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Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway starts test operation

Xinhua) 10:45, March 27, 2024

Staff members welcome passengers during the test operation of Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway at Huangshan North Station in Huangshan City, east China's Anhui Province, March 26, 2024. Connecting Chizhou Station and Yixian County East Station in Huangshan City, the Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway started test operation on Tuesday. With a total length of about 125 kilometers, the railway has a designed speed of 350 kilometers per hour. (Xinhua/Liu Junxi)

A staff member welcomes passengers during the test operation of Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway at Huangshan North Station in Huangshan City, east China's Anhui Province, March 26, 2024. Connecting Chizhou Station and Yixian East Station in Huangshan City, the Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway started test operation on Tuesday. With a total length of about 125 kilometers, the railway has a designed speed of 350 kilometers per hour. (Xinhua/Liu Junxi)

This photo taken on March 26, 2024 shows the scenery through a window of a bullet train running on the Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway during test operation in east China's Anhui Province. Connecting Chizhou Station and Yixian County East Station in Huangshan City, the Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway started test operation on Tuesday. With a total length of about 125 kilometers, the railway has a designed speed of 350 kilometers per hour. (Photo by Shi Yalei/Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on March 26, 2024 shows a bullet train running on the Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway during test operation in Jiaocun Township of Huangshan City, east China's Anhui Province. Connecting Chizhou Station and Yixian County East Station in Huangshan City, the Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway started test operation on Tuesday. With a total length of about 125 kilometers, the railway has a designed speed of 350 kilometers per hour. (Photo by Fan Chengzhu/Xinhua)

A bullet train runs on the Taiping lake grand bridge during test operation of Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway in Huangshan City, east China's Anhui Province, March 26, 2024. Connecting Chizhou Station and Yixian County East Station in Huangshan City, the Chizhou-Huangshan high-speed railway started test operation on Tuesday. With a total length of about 125 kilometers, the railway has a designed speed of 350 kilometers per hour. (Photo by Chen Suqing/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
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Two Hezbollah fighters were killed and three civilians were injured Tuesday in Israeli air strikes on Hezbollah sites near Lebanon's northeastern town of Zboud and eastern Baalbek-Hermel Governorate's Ouadi Fara, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources, who spoke anonymously, said Israel has, for the first time, targeted these two locations, which are deep inside Lebanese territory and about 140 km away from the Lebanese border with Israel.

They added that Israeli warplanes carried out several air strikes on three towns and villages in the Baalbek-Hermel Governorate and seven towns and villages in the border region of southern Lebanon.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah said its fighters targeted Israel's Meron air base with guided missiles, causing 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 371 people on the Lebanese side, including 244 Hezbollah members and 73 civilians, according to Lebanese security sources.
PRNewswire Dubai [UAE]/ Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], March 27: Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has joined the Dubai FinTech Summit (DFS), organised by Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global Financial Centre in the MEASA region, - as a Founding Partner & Co-Host underscoring its dedication to support innovative and future thinking businesses on a global scale. Visa has cemented its partnership with DFS through a strategic three-year agreement, demonstrating a strong commitment to the fintech ecosystem. Through initiatives like the Fast Track programme, Accelerators and Visa Everywhere, Visa is at the forefront of empowering FinTechs, providing them with the necessary resources and personalised tools to create innovative solutions needed to enhance the digital economy for consumers and businesses. Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO at DIFC Innovation Hub, said, "True innovation springs from collaboration. One of our objectives at the Dubai FinTech Summit is to unite global leaders, innovators and disruptive start-ups to forge the most progressive, inclusive, and technologically advanced financial community. Our alliance with Visa, solidified through a three-year agreement, aligns perfectly with our aim to provide a dynamic environment for innovation and enterprise to flourish in Dubai and beyond as we shape a resilient financial ecosystem. With Visa's continued support and expertise, we look forward to delivering an exceptional event that will inspire and empower the FinTech community." Hasan M. Kazmi , Vice President and Head of Digital Partnerships for Visa CEMEA, said, "As a global leader in digital payments, Visa is committed to fostering innovation and driving the growth of the FinTech ecosystem. Our three-year partnership with the Dubai FinTech Summit reflects our dedication to supporting FinTechs in the region and beyond. "At Visa, we recognise the transformative power of FinTechs in developing innovative payment solutions, expanding access to financial services and enabling the growth of the wider digital economy. Our participation as a co-host sponsor of the Dubai FinTech Summit provides us and our partners with a valuable platform to explore collaborative opportunities and drive further innovation in digital commerce. We believe that Dubai and DIFC's position as a global centre for innovation makes it the ideal location for this summit. By bringing together global FinTech and technology experts, the Summit will facilitate meaningful discussions and connections that will shape the future of finance not only in the region but also on a global scale." In line with the D33 Agenda to position Dubai as the top four global financial hub by 2033, the 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit is designed to encourage cross-border collaboration and innovation, pivotal to transforming the global FinTech sector. It presents a unique opportunity to explore emerging FinTech trends and their potential to drive financial progress in the MEASA region. The Dubai FinTech Summit, scheduled for May 6-7,2024, at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, will see an unprecedented gathering of over 8,000 decision-makers, 300+ thought leaders and 200+ exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies. Visitors can purchase tickets for the Dubai FinTech Summit 2024, with early bird prices ending soon. About Dubai FinTech Summit Dubai FinTech Summit is an annual mega event organised by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region. The 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit will bring together over 8,000+ global industry leaders, 1,500+ investors and policy makers, signalling increased appetite for growth opportunities in the region. Dubai FinTech Summit signals new wave of financial innovation, opportunity, transformation, and growth for the international financial services sector. As a rising FinTech hub, Dubai is also spearheading the evolution of the financial services industry, with investments in FinTech projected to grow by 17.2% CAGR to USD949 billion from 2022 to 2030. The summit aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33's strategic goal of propelling Dubai into the ranks of the top four global financial hubs by 2033. The expanded programme of Dubai FinTech Summit is set to exceed expectations by delving into key tracks, including the future of FinTech, embedded and Open Finance, climate finance, Web3 and digital assets. The summit stands as a thought leadership-driven platform, addressing industry challenges head-on and championing innovation. To register for the event, visit www.dubaifintechsummit.com. About Dubai International Financial Centre Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world's most advanced financial centres, and the leading financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), which comprises 72 countries with an approximate population of 3 billion and an estimated GDP of USD 8 trillion. With a close to 20-year track record of facilitating trade and investment flows across the MEASA region, the Centre connects these fast-growing markets with the economies of Asia, Europe and the Americas through Dubai. DIFC is home to an internationally recognised, independent regulator and a proven judicial system with an English common law framework, as well as the region's largest financial ecosystem of over 36,000 professionals working across over 4,300 active registered companies - making up the largest and most diverse pool of industry talent in the region. The Centre's vision is to drive the future of finance through cutting-edge technology, innovation, and partnerships. Today, it is the global future of finance and innovation hub offering one of the region's most comprehensive FinTech and venture capital environments, including cost-effective licensing solutions, fit-for-purpose regulation, innovative accelerator programmes, and funding for growth-stage start-ups. Comprising a variety of world-renowned retail and dining venues, a dynamic art and culture scene, residential apartments, hotels and public spaces, DIFC continues to be one of Dubai's most sought-after business and lifestyle destinations. For further information, please visit our website: difc.ae, or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @DIFC. Visitors can purchase tickets for the Dubai FinTech Summit 2024, with early bird prices ending soon. For further enquiries, please contact:Samia AhmadAssistant Manager, Marketing at DIFC Innovation HubE: samia.ahmad@difc.comPhone: +971 4 362 2657 Shadi DawiDirector of PR & Strategic PartnershipsTrescon GlobalMobile: +971 55 498 4989shadi@tresconglobal.com Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2372298/Visa_DIFC_Partner.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)
Actor Sonam Kapoor feels honoured as global art museum Tate Modern inducted her as a member of their South Asia Acquisition Committee. In a statement shared by the actress' team, Sonam said, "I'm deeply honoured to join the prestigious Tate Modern as a member of their South Asia Acquisition Committee. My fascination with Indian and South Asian art has been a lifelong journey, during which I have endeavoured to champion our artists at every opportunity." Sonam has been inducted to champion Indian and South Asian art. "South Asia's rich legacy of art is finally gaining the global recognition it deserves. As an Indian and a South Asian, it's a privilege to witness our art taking centre stage. This role at Tate Modern allows me to actively endorse and advocate for our remarkable artworks and artists on a historic platform. It is a proud moment, not just for me, but for our entire art community, as we work together to elevate the presence of South Asian art, worldwide," she added. Meanwhile, on the acting front, Sonam was last seen in the film 'Blind' directed by Shome Makhija and also starring Purab Kohli, Vinay Pathak, and Lillete Dubey in prominent roles. The film marked Sonam's return to acting after a maternity break.Sonam was blessed with son Vayu in August 2022. She has signed two new projects as well. Talking about them, Sonam said, "I took two years off as I was pregnant and then wanted to take some time off with my son. Two years are not done yet and I have signed onto two projects - one show and one film that I will start working on. It will release in another year, because that is how films work. Then my idea is to do two pieces of content every year, that's it, not more because I want to spend time with my family as well." (ANI)
Actor Kangana Ranaut, who is set to mark her electoral debut from Himachal's Mandi in the ensuing general elections, on Wednesday opened up on a past comment on fellow Bollywood colleague Urmila Matondkar, in which she addressed the latter as a 'softcore porn actress'. Speaking at the Times Now Summit on Wednesday, Kangana addressed her past comment, which evoked trolling from netizens. "Is soft porn or pornstar an objectionable term? No! It is not an objectionable term. It is a word that is not socially acceptable. Humare desh mein jitna pornstar ko respect milta hai, puchiye (former adult film star) Sunny Leone se, utna respect poore world mein kisiko nahi mil sakta (No other country treats porn stars with suh respect as we do...you can ask Sunny Leone," Kangana said. I was asked to comment on Urmila ji (Matondkar) asking on what basis was the BJP considering me for a foray into politics. That was her question. I believe there are different realms of art. Sensational art, the one we refer to as massy art, which only titillates or physically stimulates you, that is also an art form. However, that can never be superior to the art that is intellectually motivating, one which stimulates your mind. I personally believe that I belong to that balanced cinema artiste tribe. I have never done item numbers. So, all I said was that if she could join a party (Congress) with her kind of filmography, then I have a more ravishing body of work. In fact, what I am saying is why being a pornstar socially acceptable and not a prostitute? Why do we have this kind of mindset for prostitutes while we accept pornstars socially? Is it because they have more money? Do they have (more) glamour? We don't treat prostitutes the same way as pornstars." Urmila made her political debut as a Congress candidate in the 2019 Lok Sabha election from the Mumbai North constituency. However, she resigned from the Congress after a brief dalliance and joined the Shiv Sena in 2020. Earlier, in 2020, Urmila hit out at Kangana for allegedly disrespecting Jaya Bachchan, after the veteran actor claimed that the entire film industry was being 'tarnished' in a 2020 speech in Parliament. In an interview Urmila said, "Kangana wasn't even born when Jaya-ji found fame in the film industry. We're talking about a lady here (Jaya Bachchan) who has been an icon. Which part of Indian culture tells you to lash out at people like this?" To this, Kangana issued a statement earlier that read, "I saw one very derogatory interview given by Urmila Matondkar. The way she was talking about me, pulling faces, making a mockery about my struggles, attacking me on the fact that I am trying to appease the BJP for a ticket. One doesn't have to be a genius to figure that for me it is not very difficult to get a ticket. Urmila is a soft porn star. She is not known for her acting for sure, what is she known for? For doing soft porn right. If she could get a ticket, why wouldn't I get a ticket?" (ANI)
The incident happened at 10 am today, when a female passenger from another state was travelling from Bilekalli to Shivajinagar. The said passenger and the conductor of the vehicle had a verbal altercation regarding receiving/issuing the ticket, during which the conductor hit the female passenger.

In this regard, the lady passenger has filed a complaint at the Siddapur police station.

While the BMTC, in an official release stated that the conductor has been 'suspended'.

"Based on the said social media news, disciplinary action has been reserved against Mr. Honnappa Nagappa Agasar, Conductor, with immediate effect 'suspended," the BMTC stated in an official release.

"Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation is giving high priority to the safety of women passengers. The corporation has taken measures like separate seating for women in buses, separate doors, installation of panic button, CCTV, installation of information boards, women's rest room at major bus stations, helpline. Necessary steps are taken to ensure that women passengers feel safe travelling in company buses," the release stated.

"Gender Sensitization training is being given to all 27,000 driving staff in order to make the women passengers feel safe and comfortable. Our corporation has given priority to the safety of women, and strict disciplinary action will be taken against those found guilty of any kind of violence, rude behaviour and untoward incidents against women passengers," it added. (ANI)
President of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), Sukhbir Singh Badal, reiterated the party's steadfast commitment to principles over mere political calculations, stating that unlike some national parties, the Shiromani Akali Dal is more than a political entity as "it is a 103-year-old movement with a clear vision and unwavering principles". While talking to the media, Sukhbir Singh Badal said on Tuesday, "Shiromani Akali Dal is not just a political party driven by number games, unlike some national parties. We are a 103-year-old movement with a clear vision and we have always stood by and for principles. That will continue to be our goal. The Shiromani Akali Dal core committee has already made our position and priorities clear." Highlighting the party's core values, Badal emphasised the priority of principles and issues over political numbers. He stated, "For us, it is principles above politics and issues above any political numbers." Furthermore, Badal underscored the Shiromani Akali Dal's historical role in championing the rights of farmers and its commitment to their welfare. "We are the largest democratic representative organisation of farmers and have always led the fight for their rights from the front and introduced historic measures in government for their welfare. Our party stands by high principles and is committed to safeguarding Panth and Panjab," Sukhbir Singh Badal said. Earlier, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) party leader Daljit Singh Cheema announced the date of the party's core committee meeting, stating that the party will primarily focus on the strategies for the upcoming Lok Sabha election. "The core committee meeting is going to happen on March 22 at the party head office in Chandigarh. The election strategy of the Parliamentary elections will be finalised. Furthermore, the political situation of the state where everything happening at the national level will also be thoroughly discussed in the core committee," said Daljit Singh Cheema. Earlier, on a day the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) named s candidates for 8 of the 13 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal denied reaching any alliance with the BJP but did not entirely rule out the possibility of a tie-up in future. The Akalis were partners of the BJP earlier in the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the Centre and the two even contested the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in the state together but failed to come up with the goods. However, seeking to dispel rumours that the two parties could be costing up again ahead of the Lok Sabha polls and might even announce a seat-sharing deal in Punjab, the SAD chief said neither his party nor the BJP has any knowledge of an alliance in the state. Claiming that such speculations were only confined to social media platforms, he said his party was keen to continue its tie-up with the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in the state. The SAD snapped ties with the BJP and exited the NDA in September 2020 over the contentious farm laws of the Centre. The laws, however, were repealed later in the face of farmer protests. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a public meeting in support of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Anil Baluni from Garhwal Lok Sabha seat at Ramlila Maidan in Pauri Garhwal. Exuding confidence about BJP's victory in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Chief Minister said, "This time there is a discussion of crossing 400 in the whole country. We will together achieve a bigger victory than 2019 in the 2024 Lok Sabha." Addressing a rally, he further said, "We are working to make Uttarakhand the best state under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under his leadership, work is going on many important development schemes in Garhwal. Work is going on the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail line and Badrinath master plan. Today, one can reach Badrinath or any area of Garhwal from Rishikesh in just few hours. Rail and road air connectivity have also strengthened under the leadership of the Prime Minister." He added, "Char Dham was developed under PM Modi's leadership. The central and state governments are continuously working together for the betterment and development of the state. The Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) law was implemented, and various schemes are being run for the welfare of the poor." "Uttarakhand has become the first state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Our government has fulfilled the promises that were made before the elections. After implementing the anti-copying law, thousands of appointments have been made. To promote the daughters of the state, the state government has made a provision of 30 percent horizontal reservation for women," Dhami further said. The Uttarakhand CM also appealed to people to vote for BJP candidate Anil Baluni.Addressing the same rally, Union Minister Smriti Irani asked people whether they would vote for a party (Congress) that rejected the invitation for the 'pran pratishtha' of the Ram temple. "Will any of you vote for a party (Congress) that denied the invitation for the 'pranpratishtha' of the Ram temple? Will any of you vote for the ideology of the Congress party that considers Hindus as terrorists?,"asked Irani while addressing the rally. Earlier on Tuesday, Bharatiya Janata Party leader Anil Baluni filed his nomination papers from the Garhwal constituency for the Lok Sabha elections. Addressing the event, BJP leader Anil Baluni said, "In the last one week, I have met so many local residents, and as soon as people see the BJP's flag, they start shouting 'Modi-Modi'. The people have taken elections in their hands, and that is because of the BJP's ten years of governance under PM Modi." Notably, the Garhwal Lok Sabha constituency is one of the five Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttarakhand. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, BJP candidate Tirath Singh Rawat emerged victorious with a margin of 3,02,669 votes as compared to his Congress rival Manish Khanduris who managed to secure 2,04,311 votes. The 2024 elections will see a battle between BJP leader Anil Baluni and Congress leader Ganesh Godiyal.The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Uttarakhand, will once again follow the old trend, with elections being held in the first phase on April 19. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Uttarakhand, will once again follow the old trend, with elections being held in the first phase on April 19. The ruling government of the BJP led NDA won all five seats in the hilly state, in both the 2014 and 2019 general elections. The 2024 general elections will be held in India in seven phases, from April 19 to June 1 to elect the 543 members of the 18th Lok Sabha. The results will be announced on June 4. (ANI)
Hours after the Shiv Sena (UBT) released its first list of candidates in Maharashtra for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, naming Amol Kirtikar from Mumbai North West parliamentary constituency among others, Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam warned the Sena for taking an "extreme stand" and suggested that the Congress party's alliance with them might prove to be "self-destructive." "Shiv Sena should not take an extreme stand. This will cause a huge loss to Congress. I want to attract the attention of Congress leadership to intervene, if not then break the alliance to save the party. The decision of an alliance with Shiv Sena will prove self-destructive for Congress and its impact will be felt in Maharashtra and even beyond," Nirupam said speaking to reporters at a press conference in Mumbai. Nirupam said that the Sena did not even consider Balasaheb Thorat's objection. "Balasaheb Thorat was one of the members appointed to lead the negotiation with the Shiv Sena. If he is saying that there should be a rethink, it means that even his words were not considered. If they have not listened to the negotiating team, it means we have all lost," Nirupam said. Speaking about his future course of action, Nirpuam said, "Now all options are open for me. I will wait for one week and take my decision." Nirpuam who had represented Mumbai North in 2009 in the Lok Sabha said that the decision of the Shiv Sena to field candidates in Mumbai, is meant to side-line the Congress. "This is to side line Congress in Mumbai. How will Congress voters in Mumbai give vote to Shiv Sena UBT?" he asked. On Wednesday morning, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to share the list of the 17 candidates, namely for Raigad, Ratnagiri, Thane, Parbhani, Buldhana, Yavatmal, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Shirdi, South Mumbai, North West Mumbai, North East Mumbai, Sangli, Hingoli, Dharshiv, Nasik and Maval seats. The UBT Sena is fighting the Maharashtra polls in alliance with the Congress, NCP (Sharad Pawar) and the Congress.Lok Sabha polls in Maharashtra will be held in five phases on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13 and May 20. The state, with its 48 Lok Sabha seats, is the second-largest contributor to the lower house of Parliament after Uttar Pradesh. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP won 23 out of 25 contested seats, while the undivided Shiv Sena secured 18 out of 23 seats. The undivided NCP, part of the opposition alliance, contested 19 seats and won four. Following the split in the Shiva Sena 2022, Eknath Shinde faction aligned with the BJP. (ANI)
The Shirgaon police during a patrol check on the Mumbai-Pune expressway within the jurisdiction of the Pimpri-Chinchwad police commissionerate intercepted an SUV in which cash approximately worth Rs 50 lakh was seized. The cash was seized during a 'nakabandi' conducted ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The SUV carrying the cash was intercepted at Urse toll plaza and was on its way to Pune from Mumbai. The Pimpari-Chinchwad police have set up nine checkpoints at various locations in the area. According to Pimpari-Chinchwad police, "Shirgaon police and their team seized the cash from a Scorpio car during a patrol check at various locations of the Maval Lok Sabha constituency which comes under Pimpari-Chinchwad police jurisdiction." Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone2) Bapu Bangar said, "We have conducted 'nakabandi' at nine checkpoints within the jurisdiction of Pimpari-Chinchwad police today following the orders of Police Commissioner, Pimpari-Chinchwad, Vinay Kumar Choubey. During the searches, officials intercepted an SUV car with Rs 50 lakh in a bag. The car was on its way to Pune from Mumbai." "The person in the car could not provide any reasonable explanation for the cash they were carrying in the vehicle. The Shirgaon police seized the cash, and further investigation is underway," he further said. The police have initiated action in the case as per the Model Code of Conduct, which came into effect with the announcement of the schedule for the Lok Sabha elections. Elections to the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra will be held in five phases on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13 and May 20. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP won 23 out of 25 contested seats, while the undivided Shiv Sena secured 18 out of 23 seats. The election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be held in seven phases starting April 19. Nearly 97 crore voters are eligible to cast votes in the general election. (ANI)
After Prakash Ambedkar of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi announced that the party will contest Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra alone, Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Chandra Pawar) leader Clyde Crasto on Wednesday said that his decision is "wrong" and will only benefit the Bharatiya Janata Party. Crasto told ANI that if Prakash Ambedkar had any problem, he should have expressed it openly. "It's his right to contest elections. There was always a doubt about what Prakash Ambedkar was going to do. We also felt that he was about to take a turn. He should have done this before only. Why did he take part in so many discussions? His decision is wrong. Now votes will be divided and this will benefit the BJP," he said. "If Prakash Ambedkar had any sorrow, he should have expressed it openly. If he doesn't speak, how will anyone know? Last time also he benefited BJP. The public is also understanding his behaviour and will respond," he added. Meanwhile, Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi announced on Wednesday the names of eight candidates for the upcoming elections, thus indicating that it would sever its ties with Maha Vikas Aghadi, or MVA, in Maharashtra. The VBA has named candidates for seats like Gadhciroli, Gondiua and Chandrapur where the Congress has already named candidates. The UBT Sena had announced a candidate for Sangli seat on Wednesday. With this announcement, it is curtains for the expanded Maha Vikas Aghadi with Ambedkar's party contesting outside the alliance that comprises the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar). The VBA had been pushing hard to ally with the MVA to take on the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA in the Lok Sabha elections. The state will vote in five phases for 48 constituencies in the upcoming general elections. Lok Sabha Elections 2024 will be held in seven phases, starting on April 19 and ending on June 1. The results will be declared on June 4. (ANI)
National Conference leader Omar Abdullah hit out at the BJP and asked that if the situation in Kashmir has improved as claimed by the central government, then why Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is not being revoked from Jammu and Kashmir. Omar Abdullah said, "As far as revoking AFSPA is concerned, then I suggest them to start today. When they say everything is normal, militancy is over and everything is good in Kashmir, then what are they waiting for. They should have removed it earlier. I have been waiting for it since 2011 and tried very hard to remove AFSPA." He further said that false promises were being made to the people of Kashmir just like Ladakh. he further said, "But, I am afraid that the way Ladakh was betrayed regarding the 6th schedule, in the same way, considering elections Kashmiri people are getting betrayed regarding AFSPA." Earlier, ahead of the Lok Sabha election, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the central government is considering pulling back some troops from Jammu and Kashmir and leaving law and order to the police. In an interview with Jammu and Kashmir-based Gulistan News, Shah said the government will leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police. "We have plans to pull back troops and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone. We are strengthening the police, who are at the forefront during the encounter," Home Minister Amit Shah said. "The troops will slowly and slowly go to the barracks. Such a design has already been formed. We have made a blue print of seven years," he added. The Home Minister also indicated that the government is considering revoking the Armed Forces Special Powers Act in parts of Kashmir. "We will definitely consider this proposal (revoke the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act. The situation is being normalised. We are speedily considering this proposal," he said. The AFSPA gives armed forces personnel, operating in disturbed areas. An area or district is notified as disturbed under the AFSPA to facilitate the operations of the armed forces. Earlier, the Supreme Court directed the Election Commission of India to hold assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir by September 30, 2024. According to the Lok Sabha elections dates announcement, voting in Jammu and Kashmir will be held in five phases and the counting of the votes will take place on June 4. The results of the Jammu & Kashmir Lok Sabha elections 2024 will also be announced on June 4. The Lok Sabha polls in the Union Territory will be held in the first five phases on April 19 (Udhampur), April 26 (Jammu), May 7 (Anantnag-Rajouri), May 13 (Srinagar) and May 20 (Baramulla). The counting of votes will be taken up on June 4. (ANI)
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The death toll of the pre-dawn aerial assault in eastern Syria has risen to 15, according to a war monitor group.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said among those killed, 14 were members of the Iranian Islamic Revolution Guard Corps, including a high-ranking Iranian advisor responsible for a targeted communications center.

The attacks also injured 24 military personnel and 10 civilians, said the watchdog group.

The Syrian Defense Ministry, meanwhile, put the death toll at eight, including seven "military personnel" and one civilian, without divulging any information on Iranian-backed militia fighters.

While the defense ministry blamed the U.S. forces for the airstrikes, the Britain-based watchdog group said it could not confirm the party responsible for it, saying they were possibly conducted by the U.S. military with possible involvement of Israel.

However, Enab Baladi, a Syrian nonprofit media organization, reported that the United States did not carry out any attack in Syria in the past 24 hours, quoting an anonymous official from the U.S. Defense Department.
All India Congress Committee General Secretary (Org) KC Venugopal on Wednesday addressed a preparatory meeting of Delhi and Haryana leaders for the "Maharally" at Ramlila Maidan, New Delhi scheduled on March 31. The meeting was attended by AICC General Secy Incharge of Haryana and Delhi Deepak Babaria, PCC presidents of Delhi and Haryana and other PCC office bearers. The rally is being organised to protest against the arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and former CM of Jharkhand Hemant Soren by the Enforcement Directorate and the freezing of the Congress' bank accounts. All the leaders resolved to make the rally a grand success. In his post on X, Venugopal said that the suppression of democracy is unacceptable and INDIA bloc will fight against it. "In preparation of the INDIA Mega Rally at the Ram Leela Maidan, Delhi on 31st March, held a meeting with leaders from Delhi and Haryana at the AICC HQ today. The environment of authoritarianism and the blatant suppression of democracy is unacceptable. The people are disgusted with this. INDIA will never let it happen. We will fight back," he said. Earlier today, Union Minister Anurag Thakur said "The law of India is equal for everyone. Everyone from their party (AAP), councillor to MP to MLA to Minister to Deputy Chief Minister are in jail and now the staunch corrupt Arvind Kejriwal is also in jail." Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court will hear a public interest litigation (PIL) praying for the removal of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal from holding the post of chief minister of the government of NCT of Delhi on Thursday. The bench of Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora is scheduled to hear the matter on Thursday. The plea filed by one Surjit Singh Yadav through lawyer Shashi Ranjan Kumar Singh stated that the continuance of Arvind Kejriwal as the chief minister of the Government of NCT of Delhi after his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in the money laundering case related to the alleged liquor policy scam has degraded the credibility and image of the Government of NCT of Delhi in the eyes of the general public. The continuation of Kejriwal as the Chief Minister of Government of the NCT of Delhi will not only lead to the obstruction of due process of law and disrupt the course of justice but will also lead to the breakdown or the constitutional machinery in the state, the plea stated. The ED arrested Kejriwal on March 21 in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case linked to a money laundering case and remanded the next day to the ED till March 28. The case pertains to alleged irregularities and money laundering in framing and implementing the Delhi excise policy case 2022, which was later scrapped. (ANI)
Congress candidate Ganesh Godiyal filed his nomination papers from the Garhwal Lok Sabha constituency on Wednesday. After filing the nomination papers, Ganesh Godiyal addressed a huge crowd gathered during the public meeting held at Ramlila Ground in Pauri. Ganesh Godiyal said that the people who have gathered here are the star campaigners and have decided the result for June 4. Taking to X, he posted, "After the nomination, the star campaigners who gathered in the public meeting held at Ramlila Maidan in Pauri have decided the result on June 4. This is the biggest public meeting in the history of Pauri. The most important thing is that in this meeting, there was no star campaigner from Delhi like the opposition party, every person present here is a star campaigner himself." Notably, the Garhwal Lok Sabha constituency is one of the five Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttarakhand. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, BJP candidate Tirath Singh Rawat emerged victorious with a margin of 3,02,669 votes as compared to his Congress rival Manish Khanduris who managed to secure 2,04,311 votes. The 2024 elections will see a battle between BJP leader Anil Baluni and Congress leader Ganesh Godiyal.The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Uttarakhand, will once again follow the old trend, with elections being held in the first phase on April 19. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Uttarakhand, will once again follow the old trend, with elections being held in the first phase on April 19. The ruling government of the BJP led NDA won all five seats in the hilly state, in both the 2014 and 2019 general elections. The 2024 general elections will be held in India in seven phases, from April 19 to June 1 to elect the 543 members of the 18th Lok Sabha. The results will be announced on June 4. (ANI)
Comptroller and Auditor General of India, Girish Chandra Murmu, said data integrity is essential for a fair audit assessment of any national climate action plan, an absence of which may result in biases in climate data and misguided policy decisions. During a panel discussion on 'ClimateScanner Global Call: Engaging Supreme Audit Institutions in Assessing National Climate Action', in New York, Murmu said that the Supreme Audit Institutions face several obstacles while assessing national climate action, including data gaps, incomplete records and limited number of climate stations. "Lack of standardized methodologies and reporting frameworks and different countries deploying different approaches to measure emissions make the task of comparing and aggregating data globally challenging. This requires sustained efforts at capacity building and hand holding amongst SAI members," he said. The two-day event was organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the Federal Court of Accounts - Brazil (TCU) at the United Nations Headquarters on March 25 and 26. The ClimateScanner is an initiative led by the Supreme Audit Institution of Brazil to develop a comprehensive audit tool for assessing government efforts in alleviating climate change issues. "Climate change issues are always interdisciplinary, involving a fine understanding of scientific, economic and policy aspects, apart from a robust reporting and monitoring system at the union and provincial level," Murmu said. "Another significant challenge is the capacity constraints faced by many developing SAIs. Adequate infrastructure, technical expertise, and financial resources are crucial for implementing robust evaluation systems," Murmu added. Murmu added political and governance issues also pose obstacles to effective measurement, reporting and verification of data. "Some countries may (even) lack the political will to transparently report their emissions data due to concerns about economic competitiveness or national security." At the session, Murmu shared India's climate action journey beginning with the setting up of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) in 2008. He said India has achieved success in eight national missions, including declining greenhouse gas emissions since 2005 and meeting 42 per cent cumulative installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources against a target of 50 per cent by 2030. CAG Murmu stressed that anthropogenic activities have an undisputed role in climate change and underlined the need for an authoritative and comprehensive data bank on critical environmental parameters. "Climate change and principle-based taxonomy, especially, green taxonomy, helps economic activities to meet climate objectives and promote transition to a low-carbon economy," he said. He urged SAI members to undertake collaborative action. "By developing recommendations from insights gleaned from audits of climate change initiatives, we can pave the way for SAIs to become pivotal players in the fight against climate change," he said. "In this, SAIs must also realise that efficiency is passe, today's imperative is eco efficiency." At a separate event, the CAG of India formally handed over the 2024 Chairmanship of SAI 20 Engagement Group to the President of the Federal Court of Accounts-Brazil, Minister Bruno Dantas. At the handover function. Murmu congratulated SAI Brazil for their focus on two relevant themes during its chairmanship - climate finance and fight against hunger and poverty. "Both themes are linked with sustainability, equity and scarcity. Both issues pose threats to mother earth. Both themes raise ethical issues of opportunity costs of resources that often lead to detrimental decision making, I am confident that under your capable leadership, the SAI 20 will grow from strength to strength, promoting efficiency, accountability, and transparency in public administration." Murmu also emphasized SAI India's recent initiatives to take forward auditing Artificial Intelligence systems and employing AI as an auditing tool. (ANI)
Some Congress workers on Wednesday held a protest outside the party headquarters in New Delhi over the candidature of Danish Ali from Amroha in the Lok Sabha elections. Party workers were seen having banners with "Congress Jitao, Danish Hatao and Bhajpa hatao" slogans on them. The protesters were chanting slogans against the Congress candidate. Notably, Danish Ali recently joined the Congress, leaving the Bahujan Samaj Party. "Today was a time to take a decision. On one hand, there are the divisive forces in the country and on the other there are people who are struggling to give justice to the poor, deprived, and downtrodden. The choice is very clear" Ali said in his news briefing after joining the Congress. BSP president Mayawati had suspended Danish Ali a day after he spoke out in support of Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra in the cash-for-query case last year, spelling out the 'anti-party activity' out as the reason for the action against him. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Danish Ali became victorious from the Amroha seat gathering 51.4 per cent of votes. Kanwar Singh Tanwar got 46 per cent while Congress' Sachin Choudhary got only 1.1 per cent. Lok Sabha polls will be held in seven phases beginning April 19. Uttar Pradesh, which sends the maximum number of MPs, 80, to Parliament, will vote in all seven phases. Voting for phases one and two will be held on April 19 and April 26. Next, the state will once again poll in phases three and four on May 7 and May 13. The Uttar Pradesh electorate will also vote in phases five, six and seven on May 20, May 23 and June 1 respectively. The votes will be counted on June 4. (ANI)
Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Wednesday alleged that the Central government is interrupting the supply of anti-tuberculosis drugs in the state, which is putting thousands of lives at stake. In his post on X, Dinesh Gundu Rao mentioned that critical medications are not available in sufficient quantities. "It is deeply concerning that the Union Government's frequent interruptions in the supply of Anti-TB drugs are jeopardising the health and well-being of over 80,000 TB patients annually in Karnataka. Despite our relentless efforts to ensure continuous treatment, the recent directives have only exacerbated the situation," he said. " It is unacceptable that critical medications are not available in sufficient quantities, especially when the lives of thousands of TB patients are at stake. The Union Government's delayed communication and issuance of directives during the model code of conduct have severely hampered our efforts to procure essential drugs promptly," he added. Further, he urged the Central government to immediately take action and solve the situation. "Neglecting people's health under the pretext of the election code of conduct is unjustifiable. I urge the Union Government to take immediate action to rectify this situation," the Karnataka health minister added. Earlier, State Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar accused the Centre of "stepmotherly treatment" to Karnataka regarding funds for several development projects amid drought conditions. In an exclusive conversation with ANI, when asked about his claims of paucity of funds for projects, DK Shivakumar said, "...In Karnataka, there was a double-engine government. Chief Minister Bommai, when he was in power himself, admitted on record in the assembly that we would have to fight for our share." He accused the Centre of not giving an extra 50 days of work in drought-hit Taluks. "I am not talking about big things, there is MGNREGA programme, in which every drought time they have to permit us 150 days, but they are giving only 100 days, they have to give 50 more days. This is the law of the country, this is mandatory. We have 200 Taluks under drought, but not a single rupee has been given funds for drought. My Chief Minister and ministers all met the Prime Minister, Home Minister and other Union Ministers-- requested all of them. But nothing has been given," the Congress leader said. (ANI)
Himachal Pradesh Congress president Pratibha Singh said that the decision on distributing tickets will be made after talking to the high command and holding a meeting in the national capital on April 5 and 6. Pratibha Singh said, "Today, we had a meeting of the Coordination Committee. Senior leaders attended the meeting, and everyone's opinion was heard. We will take it to the high command so that, they too make a decision on tickets soon, so that we can launch our candidates on the field and win. She further said that in the meeting held today, discussions were held on the new candidates who would be given the ticket. "Discussions were held on the new candidates who would be given the ticket. A meeting has been called once again on April 5 and April 6 in Delhi. We will take our opinions to the high command. Their decisions would be followed," she further added. She further said that in the meeting held today, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, deputy chief minister Mukesh Agnihotri and senior members of the party were present. The ruling Congress is yet to announce its Lok Sabha candidates from the state. The elections to the four Lok Sabha seats of Himachal Pradesh and bypolls to the six assembly constituencies that fell vacant with the disqualification of six rebel Congress MLAs and their eventual switch to the BJP on June 1. (ANI)
India handed over the second tranche of INR/Nu Five billion for the development of infrastructure related to the GyalSung Project to Bhutan on Tuesday. Ambassador of India to Bhutan, Sudhakar Dalela, handed over the tranche to Bhutan's Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Lyonpo D.N. Dhungyel. Notably, the first tranche of INR/Nu Five billion was released on January 28, 2024. "With this, the Government of India has released INR/Nu Ten billion to the Royal Government of Bhutan under the Memorandum of Understanding on the concessionary financing arrangements for the GyalSung Infrastructure Project," the Indian embassy in Bhutan said in an official release. Moreover, the MoU, which was signed in January 2024, provides a framework for the disbursal of INR/Nu 15 billion as concessionary financing to the Government of Bhutan for infrastructure development related to the GyalSung academies. This financing arrangement is in addition to the Government of India's Plan Assistance to the Royal Government of Bhutan. The MoU builds on the earlier collaboration between the Indian government and GyalSung when, in February 2023, the Government of India extended a grant assistance of INR/Nu two billion for the DeSuung for GyalSung programme. "India is privileged to partner with Bhutan on a landmark initiative of the King of Bhutan, which puts the youth and skills at the heart of nation-building endeavours," the release stated. The Gyalsung is an essential national initiative envisioned by the King of Bhutan to build a strong foundation for the future of Bhutan. Its main objective is to make the capabilities of Bhutan's youth, enabling them to participate in nation-building and empowering them to realize their potential as competent and productive citizens in service of the Tsawa Sum, according to The Bhutan Live. (ANI)
US Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasised that the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, which collapsed earlier on Tuesday, was not an ordinary bridge and was one of the cathedrals of American infrastructure and added that the path to normalcy will not be easy. The Singapore-flagged vessel collided with one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland, leading to its collapse on Tuesday. Following the collapse, the US Secretary of Transportation said that bringing everything back to normal would not be quick and inexpensive. "This is no ordinary bridge. This is one of the cathedrals of American infrastructure. It has been part of the skyline of this region for longer than many of us have been alive. So the path to normalcy will not be easy. It will not be quick, and it will not be inexpensive, but we will build together in order to make sure that happens," he said. He further extended gratitude for the extraordinary and courageous work of the first responders, some of whom are in that cold water right now, some of whom are from right here. "We are all putting our arms around the community of Baltimore, and that is true for all of this country," Buttigieg said. He further noted that he has heard from counterparts as far away as the UK reaching out to express their support for the people of Baltimore. Moreover, Buttigieg is in close contact with the governor, the mayor, the county leadership, and the congressional delegation. "As President Biden has made clear, the federal government will provide all of the support that they need for as long as it takes," he said. The US president's plan is to work with everyone here to rebuild this bridge and reopen this port, "including our readiness as a department to approve emergency funding as soon as we receive that request," he added. Meanwhile, the US Maritime Administration will help with harbour port, harbor and supply chain operations. "The Federal Aviation Administration is even involved, working to keep the airspace above the bridge clear for emergency personnel," he said. Moreover, he also said, "We're going to be working closely with the National Transportation Safety Board as they lead their independent investigation and with the Coast Guard as they continue operations in the water." Buttigieg added that the work is just beginning for the Coast Guard to rebuild this bridge and deal with impacts in the meantime, "Reopen this port and deal with supply chain impacts in the meantime." But today, they are most acutely focused on the emergency operations underway and on the families that have been impacted. A local resident of Baltimore, Crystal Pears, said that if the bridge had collapsed later in the day, it would have been a tragedy as thousands of people commute through that bridge. "It would have been a tragedy (if the bridge had collapsed later in the day). My husband is a truck driver, and he uses that bridge to commute...For me, it would have hit home...Had it happened at 1:40 in the afternoon, we would have had a very different experience...," Pears said. She further highlighted that the bridge has a very strong history in America. "It's where our national anthem, the Star-Spangled Banner, comes from. It's named after Francis Scott Key, who is the writer of our national anthem," she highlighted. Further emphasising that the impact of this would be substantial, she said, "So Maryland in itself has a lot of history, and Dundalk has a lot of history that people I don't even really know about, which is incredible. And the Baltimore area is here, so the impact that's going to have is substantial." Pears added that the bridge was built 47 years ago, hence, there's a lot of sentimentality in the community about the bridge. "People who live in this community, their grandparents and their parents helped build that bridge 47 years ago, and it just hit its birthday this month. So there's a lot of sentimentality in the community," she said. Another resident, Kely June Pears, said that around 1:30 am, she heard the noise and her house was vibrating. "At around 1:30 am, I heard the noise and it was vibrating in the house... it only happened for, like, 5 seconds. I was really scared...My brother came and told me that the bridge had fallen," she said. The Indian Embassy in the US shared their dedicated hotline number for those affected or who require assistance. "Our heartfelt condolences to all affected by the unfortunate accident at the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. For any Indian citizens that may be affected/ require assistance, the Embassy of India has created a dedicated hotline: please reach out to us on +1-202-717-1996. Kindly avoid directing routine queries/ request to this number," the Indian Embassy in the US posted on X. https://x.com/IndianEmbassyUS/status/1772691871011057739?s=20 A 948-foot container ship smashed into a four-lane bridge in the US port of Baltimore. Earlier today, US President Joe Biden said that eight people were unaccounted for after the Baltimore Bridge collapse, out of which two have been rescued, while the rescue operation is ongoing for the remaining six. Biden also said that the ship traffic in the port of Baltimore has been suspended until further notice and the channel will be cleared before the ship traffic resumes again. (ANI)
Baloch activist Mahrang Baloch posted a video message of the mother of Kabir Baloch, on social media X.

https://x.com/MahrangBaloch_/status/1772596651737178447?s=20

His mother emphasised that she did not receive any justice from the commission or the courts.

"It has been 15 years since the enforced disappearance of my son Kabir Baloch, and I have not received justice from the commission and the courts. Be part of the media campaign on 27 March, play your role in the recovery of all missing persons including Kabir, Mushtaq and Attaullah Baloch," she said.

Earlier on Monday, Pakistani forces allegedly forcibly disappeared five people, including two Pashtun activists, from Mastung, Awaran, and Quetta districts of Balochistan, reported The Balochistan Post.

According to reports, Pakistani forces raided a house and forcibly disappeared an individual identified as Ameer Hamza from Mastung.

Hamza's wife said that the forces tortured the households and looted valuables during the raid.

Moreover, the Pakistani forces allegedly detained Ameer Hamza in front of his family and subsequently moved him to an undisclosed location, as reported by The Balochistan Post.

Meanwhile, two cases of enforced disappearances were reported from the Awaran district of Balochistan.

In a similar development, Pakistan's intelligence agencies allegedly forcibly disappeared two activists of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan.

The family members of those who disappeared said that if they had committed a crime, they should be produced before the courts instead of disappearing.

Reportedly, the family vowed to continue the sit-in until their demands were met. (ANI)
Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan reiterated demand for a judicial inquiry into the May 9 violence and the alleged rigging in the February 8 elections, Dawn reported. The PTI founder also urged the Chief Justice of Pakistan to hear the petitions filed by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI). He urged Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa to set up a judicial commission to probe the matter. Khan renewed his call for a judicial probe into alleged rigging while speaking to journalists after attending a court hearing in the alleged corruption case involving 190 million pounds. The former PM said the establishment was using the May 9 violence as a pretext to dismantle his party in accordance with the 'London plan'. "The culprits could have been identified through CCTV footage, but these have been stolen. Those behind the footage theft were responsible for the May 9 episode," the PTI chief said. He alleged that the closure of cases related to the Sharif family and President Asif Ali Zardari was "part of the London plan," Dawn reported. Massive protests erupted on May 9 last year after Imran Khan's arrest in connection with a graft case. The situation turned severe with protestors attacking the military installations. The February 8 general elections in Pakistan were deemed controversial. Imran Khan-founded PTI and several other parties alleged internet shutdowns, massive rigging, and a lack of a 'level-playing field'. The former PM further said the PTI would not consider the Senate elections as legitimate because the National Assembly was "a product of rigged exercise" in the first place. On the hearing in the US Congress on the cipher controversy last week, the PTI founder said it would have been a 'disaster' for the Biden administration had Donald Lu, the US diplomat, stated that Washington supported the ouster of his government. He claimed that Asad Majeed, the former ambassador in Washington, had informed the National Security Committee about the 'threatening tone' of Donald Lu. "Lu did not disclose facts before the Congress hearing since it would have been damaging for the Biden administration," Khan added. The former prime minister said he was not responsible for the security of ciphers as a protocol was in place for the safekeeping of secret documents. The PTI founder also rejected the Election Commission of Pakistan's investigation into allegations of rigging, saying that the ECP cannot carry out an "impartial probe" since it had itself conducted the exercise, Dawn reported. (ANI)
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A boy sits among the rubble after an Israeli airstrike in Maghazi refugee camp, central Gaza Strip, on March 26, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip from ongoing Israeli attacks has risen to 32,414, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Tuesday.

During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 81 Palestinians and wounded 93 others, it added.

This brings the total death toll to 32,414 and injuries to 74,787 since the Israel-Hamas conflict broke out on Oct. 7, 2023, according to the ministry.

Israel has been launching a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 were taken hostage.
"Dinkar Asthana (IFS: 1990), presently Ambassador of India to the Republic of Senegal, has been concurrently accredited as the next High Commissioner of India to the Republic of The Gambia, with residence in Dakar," the statement read.

He is expected to take up the assignment shortly, the MEA said.

Asthana is an Indian Foreign Service officer from the 1990 batch.

He is proficient in Hindi, English, German and also speaks French. He has served in the Indian diplomatic missions in Bonn, Bangkok, Colombo and Mexico City.

In New Delhi, he served in the Policy Planning, PAI (Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran), Protocol, and Multilateral Economic Relations Divisions.

He was deputy director general in the Indian Council for Cultural Relations from March 2014 to September 2015 and Joint Secretary (SAARC, BIMSTEC & Border Connectivity) from October 2015 to January 2016.

From February 2016, he was Joint Secretary (Development Partnership Administration-II), before taking over as additional secretary (Development Partnership Administration) in September 2018. (ANI)
Kuleba will arrive in India on Thursday. He is visiting India on invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

Apart from meeting Jaishankar, the visiting leader will also meet Deputy National Security Advisor Vikram Misri.

"During his visit, Foreign Minister Kuleba will have a number of engagements, including official meetings with External Affairs Minister and Deputy NSA to discuss matters pertaining to the bilateral partnership and cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest," a Ministry of External Affairs press release said.

Kuleba is also expected to interact with the business community.

The visit comes days after a telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

During their conversation on March 20, the two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen India-Ukraine partnership in various spheres.

While discussing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, PM reiterated India's people-centric approach and called for dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward.

He highlighted that India supports all efforts for an early and peaceful resolution of all issues between the Parties. He added that India would continue to do everything within its means to support a peaceful solution.

President Zelenskyy appreciated India's continued humanitarian assistance for the people of Ukraine.

PM Modi also had telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 20 and congratulated him on his re-election.

While discussing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, PM Modi reiterated India's consistent position in favour of dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward. (ANI)
Reacting to the suicide attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which killed six people, including five Chinese nationals, on Tuesday, Amjad Ayub Mirza, a political activist from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), said that the attack signifies that the Pakistani Army is losing control in the region and Baloch fighters are growing in strength. "Let us not forget that this is not the first time that the Chinese have been targeted on this route. In 2021, there was a suicide attack on a bus and nine Chinese engineers had lost lives, resulting in the escalation of discomfort between China and Pakistan," Amjad said. On March 26, the Chinese nationals who were reportedly going to Dasu camp from Islamabad were hit by the explosive-filled car. The attack came hours after Baloch rebels attacked a naval base. "This attack is very significant as it seems to be a sub contract job, like one organisation has given the task to another organisation to execute the task. For instance, the Baloch Liberation Army or other organisations could have sub-contracted the other organisations like Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan to execute the attack," the PoK activist further said. Notably, Chinese nationals working on different projects are often threatened by armed groups in Pakistan. "We are seeing growing intensification of attacks on Chinese assets. These coordinated attacks signify two things. First it signifies that the Pakistani Army is losing control in the region. Second, it signifies the growing strength and resilience of Baloch fighters. I think this is the final phase of the Baloch struggle", Amjad added. Geo News reported, citing Malakand's deputy inspector general of police (DIG) on Tuesday that a suicide bomber crashed his vehicle full of explosives into the car in which the Chinese nationals were travelling. Five Chinese nationals were killed in the attack. A Pakistani driver sustained injuries and was shifted to a local hospital, but he too succumbed to his wounds. The Chinese nationals were engineers who were going to Dasu camp, Kohistan from Islamabad, the official added. The Chinese embassy in Pakistan has demanded "thorough investigations" into the attack and "severe punishment" for the perpetrators. "The Chinese embassy and consulates in Pakistan have immediately launched emergency work, demanding that the Pakistani side conduct a thorough investigation into the attack, severely punish the perpetrators and take practical and effective measures to protect the safety of Chinese citizens," the embassy said in a statement. (ANI)
Responding to the update on the investigation regarding the killing of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, after taking a long pause, said that they are looking to work constructively with the Indian government to get to the bottom of the matter, according to the Canada-based media channel, Cable Public Affairs Channel (CPAC). Trudeau was asked, "how is India's cooperation shaping up on the assassination investigations of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar when Canada has credible allegations and India expects Canada to complete its own investigation first?" The Canadian PM said, "The killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil is something that we all should take extremely seriously." "The credible allegations that agents of the Indian government were involved in--that is something that we did not declare lightly, but our responsibility to protect all Canadians from illegal actions by foreign governments is something that, as a country grounded in diversity, we need to take very seriously," he added. Further, he said that the Canadian government is ensuring that appropriate investigations are being done, according to a video shared by the CPAC. "That's why we've been unequivocal about standing up for the rule of law and ensuring that the appropriate investigations are being done in full accordance with our justice system and our police independence," Canadian PM Trudeau said. Moreover, Trudeau said that they are working constructively with the government of India to get to the bottom of this. "At the same time, we are working. We're looking to work constructively with the government of India to get to the bottom of this, to understand how this could have happened, and to make sure that no Canadians are ever vulnerable again to foreign interference by any international power," he added. The apparent targeted killing of the president of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara ultimately led to accusations from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that the government of India had a hand in the killing--a claim that has been denied by India--and has led to the deterioration of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Earlier this month, purported video footage of the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar surfaced, showing Nijjar being shot by armed men in what has been described as a 'contract killing', Canada-based CBC News reported. Nijjar, who was designated a terrorist by the National Investigation Agency in 2020, was shot and killed as he came out of a Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on the evening of June 18, 2023. The attack is described as being 'highly coordinated' and involved six men and two vehicles. Meanwhile, almost nine months later, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is yet to name suspects or make arrests in relation to Nijjar's killing. However, India has rejected the allegations, calling them "absurd and motivated." According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Canada has not been able to present any evidence to back its claims over the killing. (ANI)
In a landmark development, the Thai Parliament on Wednesday overwhelmingly passed the bill legalising same-sex marriage on Wednesday, bringing Thailand closer to becoming the first Southeast-Asian country to recognise equality, the New York Times reported. The bill, which passed by 400 votes to 10, with a handful of abstentions, will now head to the Senate. If it passes there, and if approved by Thailand's king, the country would become the first in Southeast Asia to recognize same-sex marriages. Notably, in Asia more broadly, only Taiwan and Nepal have done so. Thailand's bill describes marriage as a "partnership between two individuals", rather than between a woman and a man. It will also give LGBTQ couples equal rights to various tax savings, the ability to inherit property, and the power to give medical treatment consent for partners who are incapacitated. The draft will also grant adoption rights. Thai law currently allows only heterosexual couples to adopt, although single women can adopt children with special needs, the NYT reported. "The amendment of this law is for all Thai people. It is the starting point to create equality," Danuphorn Punnakanta, a lawmaker who chairs the lower house's committee on marriage equality, told Parliament. "We understand that this law is not a universal cure to every problem, but at least it's the first step towards equality in Thai society." The legislation has been in the making for more than a decade, with obstacles stemming from political upheaval and disagreements as to the approach to take and what to include in the bill. Last December, the Thai Parliament passed four proposed draft bills on same-sex marriage; one was put forward by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's administration, and three additional versions by the Move Forward Party, the Democrat Party and the civil sector were considered. These four were combined into a single draft that was passed on Wednesday, NYT reported. "This is the greatest victory," said Nada Chaiyajit, a law lecturer at Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, who has supported the law from its beginnings. "We have been working hard with the committee. This is not only about LGBTQ, this is about everyone. Equality." Thailand is one of the most open places in the world for LGBTQ people, though some elements of its Buddhist-dominated culture are socially conservative. (ANI)
The Kansas Senate walked back a bill to that would make individual school board members more powerful, whole boards more accessible to the public and allow districts to pay dues to conservative alternatives to statewide educational organizations.

Senate Bill 427 passed a voice vote on March 25, which set it up for a vote the next day to formally adopt it. But it ended up only securing 13 votes for, 24 against and three senators abstaining from voting. Abstaining was Sen. Beverly Gossage, R-Eudora, who was the bills carrier tasked with explaining the bill and fielding questions.

None of the defectors on SB 427 explained why they changed their vote.

During the debate on the bill, Democrats spoke in opposition to the bill, saying it erodes local control of school boards, swings the balance of power of school boards across the state and implements a one-size fits-all approach to Kansass 286 school districts.

Sen. Chase Blasi, R-Wichita, advocated for parents to have access and be able to address local school boards.

Republicans argued that it will increase the transparency in schools and allow parents to have direct contact with their elected school board.

The most important piece in this bill, in my opinion as a father with kids in public school and as someone who attended public school myself, is how important it is for parents to have access and be able to address their elected board of education, said Sen. Chase Blasi, R-Wichita.

Senate Bill 427 would have done the following:

Require phone numbers and emails of school board members be available online.

Give individual school board members the ability to add discussion items to the agenda without the approval of the whole board.

Mandate a public comment section and that school board policies not bar board members from responding during public comment.

Allow school board members to enter school buildings during school days and after-school activities.

Allow boards of education to appropriate money to nonprofit support organizations besides the Kansas Association of School Boards. There is only one similar organization in the state, the Kansas School Board Resource Center, which is run by the same organization that requested the bill be introduced, The Kansas Policy Institute. It doesn't currently charge for services, and said it doesn't plan to in the future.

Democrats critiquing the bill paid special attention to the ability to add items to a school boards agenda. Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overland Park , said it would allow meetings to discuss things without the public being notified through pre-released agendas, and Sen. Jeff Pittman, D-Leavenworth, said it could empower chaotic meetings.

Senate Bill 427 is a brazen overreach on local control of our duly elected school boards, forcing policies that are already available for each school board to adopt brought by a few disgruntled school board members to this body, Pittman said.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas bill mandating public school board procedures gets walked back
After almost two decades in business, a Northern Kentucky roller skating rink is closing at the end of the week. Why? To make way for the expansion of State Route 536.

Independence Skateway's last day is Saturday, according to a Facebook post announcing the closure.

It is definitely emotional because it's going to be a big change, said Debbie Richardson, who co-owns the business with her mom.

I gotta figure out something to do with the rest of my life when all I've ever really known is, you know, running this business, 42-year-old Richardson added.

The expansion of KY 536 will transform a narrow, two-lane road into a four-lane thoroughfare better able to accommodate future traffic needs, the Kentucky Transporation Cabinet said in a statement.

Rumors had been circulating since 2006 that the highway project might impact the business, but Richardson says it wasnt until last spring that she learned state officials were coming to do an appraisal.

State officials said right-of-way agents worked with the roller skating rinks owners and compensated them for the property.

The Cabinet understands the sensitive nature of acquiring property for the betterment of communities and is committed to following a fair and equitable process, the cabinets statement reads.

However, Richardson didnt have much choice in abandoning the family business.

If they decided to stay, she said, it would have been an uphill battle made worse by mounting legal fees.

We're a small business, it's just me and my mom that own it, and we can't afford to fight it, Richardson added.

Relocating wasnt an option either as the states offer wasnt enough to cover the cost of rebuilding, she said, adding it would take at least two to three years to get the business up and running again.

Thats two to three years without a paycheck.

This is our livelihood, Richardson said. Were here seven days a week.

Whats the status of the State Route 536 project?

Officials say the project is comprised of a series of roadway improvements designed to meet traffic flow and safety needs.

Heres a breakdown of those improvements and a timeline of construction:

The first project from Dixie Highway to State Route 1303 and includes a wider four lanes of traffic, two roundabouts, a new bridge near Toebben Drive and a straighter road to improve sight distance. It is expected to be completed this summer.

The second project is from KY 1303 to Williamswoods Drive and includes roundabouts at the KY 1303 and KY 536 intersection, as well as at KY 536 and Hogrefe Road. Construction is expected to start in the spring and finish in 2027.

The third project is from Williamswoods Drive to State Route 17, with construction beginning as soon as 2026. It features a roundabout at KY 536 and Williamswoods Drive, as well as a constructed road bridging over Independence Road and back to KY 536.

The improvements will also create greater connectivity for pedestrians and bicyclists with a share-use path connecting to a larger trail between Union and Independence on KY 536.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is committed to prioritizing highway safety improvements for all roadway users while also taking great care to reduce property owner impacts as much as possible, the statement reads.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Independence Skateway closing to make way for highway expansion
NEW YORK  Two of New Yorks biggest environmental policies are on a collision course.

Foes of congestion pricing, the long-awaited plan to reduce traffic in Manhattan by charging drivers, are aiming to block the tolls using a constitutional amendment designed to protect the environment.

Ironically, the tolling plan is intended to help the environment by taking polluting cars off the road in New York City while raising money to pay for billions of dollars in upgrades to the Metropolitan Transportation Authoritys sprawling bus and subway network.

Nevertheless, one of the biggest wild cards in several lawsuits challenging the proposed tolls is the 2021 green amendment voters approved to ensure every New Yorker has a state constitutional right to clean air, clean water and a healthful environment.

Three lawsuits challenging the congestion pricing plan argue it would actually exacerbate air pollution in high-smog areas by encouraging new traffic patterns that would create vehicular bottlenecks in those neighborhoods.

How is that not going to be a violation of the green amendment? said Alan Klinger, an attorney who is representing toll foes, including Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella and the United Federation of Teachers. Because it is certainly going to affect the quality of the environment for these communities.

The pending legal fights give federal courts an early crack at defining the scope of the rights in the green amendment. And that could spell trouble for the MTA, which is set to finalize its tolling plan at a Wednesday board meeting.

The daytime tolls  $15 for cars and more for big trucks  are expected to improve the regions overall air quality. But a state and federal environmental assessment shows congestion pricing will change traffic patterns as drivers, particularly commercial truck drivers, try to dodge the tolls by taking circuitous routes around Manhattan  potentially snarling traffic and increasing air pollution

These routes include parts of Staten Island, the South Bronx, Chinatown, the Lower East Side and places along the FDR and other peripheral highways  areas already considered environmental justice communities, which means pollution there is supposed to get extra scrutiny.

The law says that environmental justice communities are supposed to get special attention and protection, not be treated worse, Klinger said.

Three of the five cases challenging the MTAs tolling plan and a federal environmental review  two in New Jersey federal court and three in New York federal court  focus on these sorts of changes. And all three New York cases raise the green amendment issue.

So far, the MTA and federal transportation officials have not dealt directly with the green amendment issues in court, though their mandatory environmental assessment released last year devotes nearly 500 of its thousands of pages to environmental justice communities.

The findings of the environmental assessment  and in particular, the projects substantial environmental benefits  reflect the projects consistency with the green amendment, MTA spokesperson Joana Flores said in an email.

More broadly, the state, which effectively runs the MTA, has cited reducing overall air pollution as among the reasons Albany lawmakers supported congestion pricing in the first place. Plus, the state has said, there are plans to deal with some of the negative local impacts, including installing charging stations for electric trucks, monitoring traffic conditions and putting in plants to mitigate air pollution from changes in traffic patterns.

Because there is so little case law about New Yorks green amendment, its hard to predict how courts will view the claims about congestion pricing violating residents environmental rights.

Whether one agrees or disagrees with that, their framing is not coming out of left field in terms of what arguments they are making, said Maya K. van Rossum, an environmental advocate who coined the term green amendment.

She said the legal lines about where environmental rights begin and end will be drawn over time, just as courts have long wrestled with freedom of speech and religion cases.

Jack Lester, an attorney representing New Yorkers Against Congestion Pricing Tax and other plaintiffs challenging the tolling plan, said the green amendment and congestion pricing dont have to be in conflict, they just are because of the way the MTA is going about the tolling plan.

Its one of those governmental, perhaps well-intentioned policies that just went off the rails, no pun intended, in how they tried to implement it, he said.

So far, several of the recent green amendment cases in New York have presented more obvious claims, according to a review of the green amendment cases being tracked by Pace Universitys law school.

One case involved a landfill, for instance.

But there have been more surprising uses, too. A lawsuit to block solar energy subsidies and a lawsuit to ensure Buffalo puts fluoride in its tap water both cite the green amendment.

Its still possible the green amendment issues dont get ruled on by a judge if the cases settle or if either New York or New Jersey challengers win before the tolling starts.

The judge in the New York cases is leaving complex constitutional questions for later, after the court rules on more basic questions about whether the environmental reviews were done properly. Traditionally, courts defer to bureaucrats and elected officials on those kinds of regulatory matters.

But the green amendment claims introduce a constitutional twist and uncertainty.

Federal judges in New Jersey and New York are expected to hear arguments in and rule on the more basic legal questions by mid-June, which is when the MTA wants to start tolling. That means even if the MTA wins on the more basic legal issues, the green amendment issue could be left unsettled, giving New York toll foes another bite at the apple.

They could, for instance, seek an injunction to block the tolls before or even after they begin by claiming the tolls violate neighborhood residents constitutional rights.

A ruling in one case last April involving a residential project in Chinatown, suggests some courts wont want to give foes of projects another bite at the apple in cases where more traditional environmental arguments failed. The judge wrote that she was hesitant to create a brand-new route to challenge developments on an environmental basis using the green amendment.

But that ruling came after years of previous attempts to block the projects proved unsuccessful.
The Oklahoma Judicial Nominating Commission has a more than half-century proven track record of providing the governor with excellent judges and justices, a guest columnist writes. Senate Joint Resolution 34 would change that.

Fairness. Impartiality. Independence. These are the hallmark attributes we seek for the justices and judges who ensure that every citizen of this state is treated equally and without bias under the law. Our entire system of justice  our coequal third branch of government that safeguards our rights under the law  depends on their ability to do so.

Oklahomans should be proud that we have a system of choosing our highest-ranking judges that is regarded as one of the best in the nation to help us make sure we get it right: the Oklahoma Judicial Nominating Commission.

For over five decades, the Oklahoma Bar Association, which is tasked with advancing the administration of justice, has championed the Judicial Nominating Commission model. The OBA House of Delegates, composed of lawyers representing every county in the state, originally passed a resolution in support of the commission in 1967. In 2017, upon the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Judicial Nominating Commission, the OBA House of Delegates once again united in resolve of continued favor. This year, the OBA Board of Governors has again reaffirmed that commitment by unanimously recommending that Senate Joint Resolution 34 not be passed.

The JNC reviews applications for certain judicial positions, such as the Oklahoma Supreme Court. Following its review, the commission provides three nominees to the governor to choose between for appointment. It is comprised of six lawyers (elected among OBA members) and nine non-lawyers (appointed by the governor, the speaker of the House, and the president pro tempore of the Senate).

For context, the Judicial Nominating Commission was voted into existence in the late 1960s following a dark day in Oklahoma history. Justices of the Oklahoma Supreme Court, then elected in partisan elections, received national notoriety for taking bribes to decide cases. One justice admitted he could not remember a year in which he did not take a bribe. In response, Oklahomans voted to change the Constitution to create the JNC.

More: Analysis: Right-wing groups, Catholic Church are behind effort to change how Oklahoma judges are appointed

SJR 34 proposes to dismantle the JNC and move to a federal model for judicial selection where the governor appoints and the Senate confirms judges and justices. I joined my colleagues on the OBA Board of Governors and voted to recommend against SJR 34s passage. I had several reasons for my vote.

First, the JNC has a more than half-century proven track record of providing the governor with excellent judges and justices. While there is no perfect selection method for any appointment process, the JNC has historically demonstrated it is the best possible method of ensuring fairness, professionalism and nonpartisanship. Simply comparing our system today with how judges are picked in Washington, D.C., shows Oklahomas selection process to be less partisan and more efficient. I cannot ignore the real-world evidence demonstrating Oklahomas superiority in this area.

Second, Oklahomans have clearly demonstrated they approve of the candidates produced by the JNC. For example, Oklahoma appellate judges and justices stand for retention every six years. Oklahoma voters have voiced at every election cycle for over half a century that they are more than happy with these judges and justices. Again, real-world data overwhelms arguments to the contrary.

Third, The JNC is more transparent. The name of every applicant is made public, and every Oklahoman has the ability to send comments or concerns to the JNC prior to any recommendation. If SJR 34 was passed, however, neither the public nor the other branches of government would know who is being considered. Only one final candidate would be submitted to the Senate on a take-it-or-leave-it vote.

Fourth, our nations Founding Fathers created a laboratory of democracies, where state autonomy allows each to develop its own system and not blindly follow a centralized mandate. Oklahomans have historically shown a strong preference for states rights. It should be remembered that Oklahoma could have adopted the federal model in 1967 but chose its own alternative. Leaders looked at the federal model and determined it did not fit Oklahoma. I do not believe anything has changed in the intervening years to change that determination.

Finally, the JNC model best reflects principles found in the Oklahoma Constitution, which provides for governing boards for many state agencies to ensure checks and balances on governmental powers. Oklahoma voters reaffirmed their commitment to a less centralized approach to public governance when adopting the JNC.

One of my predecessors as president of the OBA, David Poarch, stated, We would all be well-served to remember that our republic has existed this long because of an independent judiciary, not in spite of it. Justice for all requires a competent, professional, impartial and unbiased judiciary. It is my belief that the Oklahoma Judicial Nominating Commission has proven it is the best possible model for accomplishing those aims.

Miles Pringle

Miles Pringle of Oklahoma City serves as the 2024 president of the Oklahoma Bar Association.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma Bar Association opposes effort to change how judges are chosen
Board Chair Paula Lewis presides as the OKCPS school board following an Executive Session and vote to accept the resignation of Superintendent Sean McDaniel on Feb 29, 2024; Oklahoma City, OK, 73106; Mandatory Credit: Steve Sisney-The Oklahoman

The disconnect between the Oklahoma City Public Schools board of education and its current superintendent, Sean McDaniel  which he said led to his unexpected resignation last month  shouldnt affect the districts search for his replacement, the board chair said Tuesday.

For the first time since McDaniels resignation on Feb. 26, Paula Lewis spoke to reporters after a special board meeting held at the headquarters of the Oklahoma State School Boards Association, which is shepherding OKCPS through the search process. As she had in several prepared statements, Lewis praised McDaniel and said despite reports of discord in the days after McDaniels announcement  the board was split 5-3 as to whether to accept McDaniels resignation  the board remains united.

The community can see here that the board is functioning, Lewis said after the meeting, which was led by OSSBA officials, who guided the seven OKCPS board members in attendance through exercises designed to encourage them to think about specific qualities they want in a new superintendent. McDaniel, who is serving in the role until June 30, did not attend the meeting.

The board is not asking for unrealistic qualifications or characteristics, Lewis said. Its the same board that hired Dr. McDaniel. The vision is the same. Dr. McDaniel has done a phenomenal job with this district.

In his resignation letter, McDaniel said, a particular member of this Board and I have completely different views regarding individual board members' roles and responsibilities and mine in serving this District. For months, and in good faith I have tried to bridge that gulf through conversations with the board and with concessions I have been willing to make, but to no avail. I regret that our differing views of who should administer the District on a daily basis are now irreconcilable."

Lewis declined to say who the board member was, although emails obtained by The Oklahoman via the Oklahoma Open Records Act indicated an increasing level of disagreement over the last few months between McDaniel and board leaders, including Lewis and vice chair Lori Bowman, especially concerning issues regarding charter schools sponsored by the district. In one email, Lewis told McDaniel, It is my belief that the board wants to be in alignment with you. It is also my belief that this board will not value alignment over their responsibility to their communities.

Mentioning the open-records request, Lewis said, (T)heres been all kinds of things that show that we were asking these kind of questions, exactly what we wanted. Weve done a great job. Dr. McDaniel has been here six years. The average urban superintendency is three years and when he was hired it was 18 months. So regardless of what the resignation letter said, this district is in a better place because Dr. McDaniel came and its in a great place because of the quality of the board we have.

Lewis: OKC school board has 'a good reputation'

She said she didnt think potential candidates for the job might have second thoughts after what happened with McDaniel.

I honestly dont think so, Lewis said. This board is considered one of the highest-functioning boards in Oklahoma. We have a good reputation for that. We have not been in the news, as you all know, until this most recent last two or three weeks. The district is moving in the right direction. Kids are learning to read in third grade. Our letter grades are coming up on the state report card. Oklahoma City is a great place to be. Its a great place to live. Its a great place to put your kids. I have kids in the district, so no, I dont think the board will be an issue.

Stephanie Hyder, the OSSBAs director of strategic initiatives and executive search services, led the meeting, which also included the OSSBAs executive director, Shawn Hime, and Christy Watson, its director of communications and marketing. Board members were asked to write down qualities they wanted in the new superintendent onto sticky notes and sort them into groups with labels such as leadership characteristics, experience, education, communication, community/stakeholder engagement, shared leadership, innovation, finance and student outcomes.

Hyder told board members the OSSBA would turn the information it received from board members during the exercises on Tuesday into a rubric that could be used to help screen potential candidates.

She advised board members to be fluid and flexible on their timeline for hiring.

The process is complex, it can feel kind of big, but were going to take it in little pieces, Hyder said.

The district is in the midst of a stakeholder survey that will last until April 5. The application period for the job began March 12 and will run until April 12. Hime said the OSSBA already has received interest in the position from people in Kansas and Texas. When OKCPS board member Juan Lecona asked if there had been any applications from within the district, Hime said that information would be in the application portal maintained by the OSSBA.

Hyder said the goal is to review applications for the job by April 15 and begin the first round of interviews with potential candidates the week of April 22. After that, due diligence screening would be performed on the finalists and a second round of interviews would be held the week of May 6.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKCPS board chair says McDaniel's sudden departure won't affect search
 Flash

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Nepal's deputy prime minister and foreign minister, in Beijing, capital of China, March 26, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Narayan Kaji Shrestha, Nepal's deputy prime minister and foreign minister in Beijing on Tuesday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said as a friendly neighbor and strategic partner, China has always placed Nepal in an important direction of the neighboring diplomacy.

China is ready to work with Nepal to promote the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and advance the China-Nepal strategic partnership of cooperation featuring ever-lasting friendship for development and prosperity to a new and higher level, Wang said.

Shrestha said the new government of Nepal attaches great importance to relations with China. Nepal is willing to work with China to advance the Belt and Road cooperation and decides to join the Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative.
It's Easter weekend so your plans may be booked with family events, church services or preparing for guests, but if you have the time to get out there is still plenty happening around Newport County.

For the kids, there are still eggs to be found, including a chance to hunt in the dark.

If you're into dancing, you can grab a partner or go single to a Barn Dance and do-si-do.

Or learn about some parts of Rhode Island you may not have been aware of.

Here's a look at what's happening this weekend before the Sunday holiday.

Barn dancing in Tiverton

The Four Corners Arts Center welcomes guests to the historic village of Tiverton Four Corners to celebrate the coming of spring and the daffodil bloom in the tradition of New Englands earliest settlers for an early evening of contra dancing from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Meeting House at Four Corners, 3850 Main Road, Tiverton.

Music will be provided by Woody & the Westside Warblers, with Don Heinold serving as the dance caller.

A $15 donation is suggested at the door and guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages. Proceeds will support the Four Corners Arts Center.

For more information visit fourcornersarts.org/concerts-events.

City of Newport egg hunts

Youngsters, above, scramble to fill their baskets during the Newport Recreation Department Easter egg hunt at Touro Park in Newport.

The City of Newport will host a pair of egg hunts on Saturday to give kids of all ages an opportunity to enjoy the holiday.

The first will be held at Touro Park at 10 a.m. for kids ages 2 to 6.

A second flashlight egg hunt will take place at Toppa Field at 8 p.m. for kids ages 7 to 10. Participants must bring their own flashlight.

Register at register.capturepoint.com/reg/index.cfm or for more information, contact the Newport Recreation Department at (401) 845-5800.

Discover Rhode Island's secrets

Roberta Mudge Humble will be presenting Secret Rhode Island a discussion of places in Rhode Island unfamiliar to many people but full of wonderful surprises on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. at the Middletown Library.

EFC Newport egg hunt

Join EFC Newport, 70 Bliss Mine Rd, Middletown, for their egg hunt on Saturday starting at 11 a.m. Their will be a bounce house, ice cream sundaes, face painting and crafts. Participants are asked to bring your basket and a non-perishable item to help support the Portsmouth Food Bank

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Things to do in Newport County March 30: Egg hunts, barn dancing
If youre still looking to rent a room in the slice of New Hampshire that will experience a total solar eclipse on April 8, you may be out of luck.

Brooke Kenney, manager of the Northern Comfort Motel in Colebrook, said shes been totally booked on that date for about five months  and the calls keep coming in.

Were getting four to five, if not more, emails or calls a day inquiring about availability, she said.

Almost all of Coos County will fall within the path of the total eclipse on April 8, 2024.

Charlene Hardee, whose family owns Bear Rock Suites, has also been fielding a deluge of daily eclipse phone inquiries.

We've got a waiting list of 26 people, she said.

In a typical year, April is a quiet month for the small towns of Coos County, a lull between snowmobile season in the winter and ATV season in the summer. But with local officials expecting crowds as big as 50,000 for the total eclipse, this years mud season will likely see a rare surge in tourists.

Total eclipse is coming April 8: What you need to know to see it in NH

It's hard to prepare for because we're used to having just the local people spending money and not all these people coming into the area, Kenney said.

Shes started offering people the opportunity to camp in a field adjacent to the motel, but so far no one has taken her up on the prospect. Other residents said they knew people renting out spare rooms in their homes to accommodate eclipse-watchers.

Tim Stevens, Colebrooks town manager, has been working with local residents and public safety officials to get ready for the eclipse for the past year. He has been trying to anticipate the myriad of ways the astronomical event and all the visitors it might bring could impact the town  from local ATM machines potentially running out of cash to the need for extra porta-potties and trash cans. Colebrook schools are canceled for the day of the eclipse and will have a remote learning day the day after, he said, in part so school buses are not stuck amid the traffic of visitors leaving.

Stevens has been trying to be as proactive as possible, but unknown factors like weather and crowd size make precise planning challenging. April weather in the North Country can range widely, he said, with some years seeing snow and others warm and sunny. Clouds or rain  never far off in Northern New England in spring  could mean the eclipse itself is partially obscured.

You kind of got that playing that guessing game of, We want to be prepared as best we can and make the best of it, but the other side of that is we don't want to overshoot and just end up having a huge waste, he said.

Eric Cross, manager of Black Bear Tavern in Colebrook, has been working with the town and planning for months to make sure his restaurant can capitalize on the crowds without being overwhelmed. He said theyve stocked up on food and rented extra land and hired extra help for parking at the restaurant.

We won't be running our regular menu on Sunday or Monday, Cross said. We're going to be doing a buffet so we don't have to facilitate taking orders.

Ben Gaetjens-Oleson, town manager of Lancaster, said local restaurants in his town are also changing their normal procedures.

Our food service industry in Lancaster, at least half of those [restaurants] are always usually closed on Mondays, he said. Pretty much all of them have decided to be open on Monday because they realize the opportunity to capture that extra business.

Stevens has advised local residents to stay off the roads as much as possible on April 8. Part of the concern over heavy traffic in the area is that many of the local roads are not paved, which may make them particularly dangerous at a time of year when conditions are typically muddy.

Stevens has also encouraged locals to stock up on essential supplies early, in case traffic prevents easy travel or the crowds leave empty shelves in their wake.

Cross said he is more worried about the aftermath of the event, once the bulk of visitors head south in the days after the eclipse.

[Stores] are going to be empty and the gas stations are going to be empty, he said. And we're going to be waiting on resupplying.

Gaetjens-Oleson is less skeptical that the eclipse will disturb local life substantially. He said that northern New Hampshire is not the only place experiencing totality and many other places along the path include bigger cities that will likely attract more visitors. He said he expects regional traffic in Coos will not be much different than holiday weekends in the summer.

Were used to it. We can handle it, he said.

Stevens said he has encountered a mix of attitudes among residents in his preparation for April 8.

There are people that think it's a big hype, and it's not going to be that big of a deal, he said And I get other people that think it's the apocalypse, and God hope we make it through this whole thing. 

These articles are being shared by partners in The Granite State News Collaborative. For more information visit collaborativenh.org.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: How total eclipse prep is going in northern NH path of totality area
EL PASO, TEXAS - MARCH 26: Eliana, 22, a migrant from Venezuela, holds her daughter Crismarlees, 3, while being denied entry after attempting to cross through concertina from the U.S. side of the Rio Grande river on March 26, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. Four days ago, hundreds of migrants seeking asylum clashed with Texas national guardsmen while waiting to turn themselves in to border patrol agents for processing. Texas continues awaiting a verdict on Senate Bill 4. The bill allows state law enforcement officials to detain and arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing into the U.S. Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court authorized Senate Bill 4, a federal appeals court halted the decision based on an earlier injunction. The politics and controversies surrounding border and immigration issues continue to be a dominant theme in the U.S. presidential election campaign. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Texas still cannot temporarily enforce a controversial new law that would authorize police to arrest and detain migrants suspected of illegally crossing the border from Mexico, a federal appeals court ruled late Tuesday.

The panel split, 2-1, on the decision for Texas request for a stay of a U.S. district judges preliminary injunction of the law pending appeal.

Chief Judge Priscilla Richman, an appointee of former President George W. Bush, and Judge Irma Ramirez, who was nominated by President Joe Biden, joined in the order Tuesday night ruling against Texas request. Richman wrote for the majority that it is the presidents role to decide whether, and if so, how to pursue noncitizens illegally present in the United States."

Judge Andrew Oldham, an appointee of former President Donald Trump, dissented.

The State is forever helpless: Texas can do nothing because Congress apparently did everything, yet federal non-enforcement means Congresss everything is nothing, Oldham wrote in his 70-page dissent. And second, while the dispute before us is entirely hypothetical, the consequences of todays decision will be very real.

Texas attorneys can return to the Supreme Court to challenge the 5th Circuits ruling but havent indicated yet that they would do so.



The ruling from a three-judge panel of the 5th Circuit Court is a win for the Biden administration and immigration advocacy groups, who initially challenged the law in January.

They argued that the state law, known as Senate Bill 4, conflicts with the federal governments immigration policy and violates the Constitutions supremacy clause, which says that federal laws preempt conflicting state laws.

In court filings, Texas contends that the state is the nations first-line defense against transnational violence and has been forced to deal with the deadly consequences of the federal governments inability or unwillingness to protect the border.

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott in December signed the law that, when in effect, would authorize state police to arrest migrants and charge them with a misdemeanor on the first offense if they are suspected of crossing the border illegally. During the court process, migrants could be ordered to return to Mexico or face prosecution if they didnt agree to return.

The law was supposed to go into effect on March 5 but has been delayed by a whirlwind of court orders.

The Supreme Court set it on ice for two weeks while the justices considered emergency requests from the Biden administration and immigrant rights groups to keep it paused while legal challenges proceed.

When it did rule two weeks later, the high court effectively gave Texas the green light to enforce the new state law effective immediately. But hours later, the appeals court reinstated an injunction blocking the law's implementation.

The 5th Circuit is set to hear arguments on April 3 over the constitutionality of the law.

The legal showdown over the Texas law is part of a broader fight between the Biden administration and Texas, who continue to clash on border policy as the influx of migrants has sparked nationwide controversy.

Texas is embroiled in two other major court battles with the DOJ, over the states use of razor wire and floating buoys along the border designed to block migrants from entry. In May, the full bench of the 5th Circuit will rehear the case involving access and river border buoys, allowing the floating barrier to remain in place in the meantime.
MADISON  Gov. Tony Evers on Wednesday signed a bipartisan slate of bills designed to strengthen protections for judges as they face heightened threats to their safety, nearly a year after a retired Juneau County judge was shot and killed in a targeted attack at his home.

The bills' enactment drew praise from state Supreme Court Chief Justice Annette Ziegler, who said she is "glad to see that judicial security is supported across the aisle."

"Public safety continues to be an important priority for us as a state, and I look forward to continuing our bipartisan work in the next legislative session," Evers said in a statement.

One law will make it a Class A misdemeanor to picket or demonstrate near a judge's home "with the intent to interfere with, obstruct, or impede the administration of justice," punishable by nine months imprisonment and a $10,000 fine.

Two others will allow judges to limit the amount of personal information for them and their families, including addresses, available to the public.

Across the country, threats and acts of judicial violence and intimidation have been on the rise. That reality is unacceptable: it is a basic tenet of judicial independence that judges should not be intimidated, influenced, threatened, or killed for doing their job," Ziegler said in a statement. "This package is a much-needed step in the right direction to provide safety and security to our judicial officers. May we all continue to do our part, individually and collectively, to provide a safe court system."

The bills were introduced after retired Juneau County Judge John Roemer was killed in 2022. The man accused of fatally shooting Roemer, Douglas K. Uhde, had been sentenced to prison by Roemer on a burglary charge in 2005. Uhde shot himself in Roemer's New Lisbon home and died days later.

Juneau County Circuit Court Judge John Roemer in October 2007.

Following Roemer's death, law enforcement confirmed Uhde had a list of other targeted individuals.

There have been 142 threats made against Wisconsin judges in the past year, according to the state Supreme Court Marshals Office.

Jessie Opoien can be reached at jessie.opoien@jrn.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Gov. Tony Evers signs bills strengthening protections for judges
Park crews cut trees in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park after a high wind event overnight March 26 caused multiple road closures, some still in effect March 27.

Some roads in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park have opened while many remain closed March 27 after a recent high wind event caused trees to fall over roads and trails.

Wind gusts peaking at 85 mph in the national park early in the morning March 26 resulted in the closure of 10 roads while crews began to clear trees and debris. Four roads and parts of others have since opened, including Little River Road, the Gatlinburg Bypass, Wears Gap Road and U.S. 441 or Newfound Gap Road, the main road connecting Cherokee in North Carolina to Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Park crews clear trees and debris on Cades Cove Loop Road, which remains closed March 27 after a recent high wind event.

A "significant number of trees" fell across Laurel Creek Road, Cades Cove Loop Road, and at Cades Cove Campground, which remain closed March 27, according to a news release from the park.

"The roads and campground are closed to all public access, including walking and biking," the release said. "Crews estimate it could take a few days to clear trees and debris before it is safe to reopen those areas."

More: Death of child in Great Smoky Mountains campground was 11th tree fall fatality in park

Downed trees are seen blocking Loop Road in the Great Smokies March 27 after a high wind event overnight March 26.

Some buildings and vehicles were damaged in the high wind event, but no injuries were reported, according to the release.

Great Smokies closures as of 10:30 a.m. March 27 include the following:

Cades Cove Campground

Cades Cove Loop Road

Laurel Creek Road

Greenbrier Road at the ranger station

Upper Tremont Road

Cherokee Orchard Road at the park boundary

Foothills Parkway West between Look Rock and US 129

Updates will be posted on the parks website and social media.

In July 2022 a large red maple tree fell in the Elkmont Campground in the Smokies, a few miles south of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, killing a 7-year-old girl from Georgia, according to the National Park Service.

The park has said the tree was 2 feet in diameter but has released few other details about the tragedy, including the age and health of the tree and whether it was known to have been weakened in some way or whether other trees in the campground are at risk of falling. The child's death was the 11th known death by tree fall in the park's history, according to previous Citizen Times reporting.

The Great Smokies cover more than a half-million acres of heavily forested, rugged terrain sweeping across the border of Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee. It is the most-visited national park, with 13.3 million visitors in 2023, who come for the stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, waterfalls, backpacking, fishing, and camping among other pursuits.

More: 7-year-old girl killed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park when tree falls on tent

Ryley Ober is the Public Safety Reporter for Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at rober@gannett.com and follow her on Twitter @ryleyober

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Great Smoky Mountains National Park road closures, openings March 27
Pennsylvania could get a little sweeter thanks to a group of Bucks County high school students.

On Tuesday, legislation initially proposed by members of the Hershey Kiss Committee passed in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

State Rep. Perry Warren welcomed the committee, made up of juniors from Council Rock North in Newtown, to the Capitol for the passing of House Bill 1030, which calls for Hersheys Kisses to be recognized as the official candy of Pennsylvania.

From left, State Rep. Perry Warren, State Rep. Kristin Marcell, State Rep. Tom Mehaffie and students from Council Rock School District visit the state Capitol in Harrisburg on Wednesday, March 27, 2024.

The bill was first proposed in 2021 when the students attended Newtown Middle School.

After heading off to high school, the committee members continued to advocate for the bill by contacting the Hershey Company, visiting Harrisburg, lobbying legislators, working with the bills prime sponsor, Rep. Tom Mehaffie, whose district includes the Hershey chocolate factory, and publicizing their journey in the media.

More: Ricky Moyer of Levittown makes it to Hollywood on 'American Idol'

Warren said he originally met with the students and social studies teachers, Rick Loughran and Matt McCarthy, three years ago to brainstorm their idea.

The Hershey Kiss Committee wrote the proposed legislation and embarked upon their quest to designate Hersheys Kisses as the state candy of Pennsylvania, said Warren, who represents the 31st Legislative District in Bucks County, comprised of Lower Makefield, Newtown Borough, Newtown Township, Upper Makefield and Yardley.

Today, three years later, these students, now juniors at Council Rock High School North, were in the Hall of the House for the vote on H.B. 1030. After a surprisingly heated debate, the bill passed by a vote of 130-71. Congratulations to the Hershey Kiss Committee.

H.B. 1030 now heads to the Senate for consideration.

The students started their own website, thekiss4pa.org, and their own social media campaign for the effort, #thekiss4pa.

More: Council Rock students' push to have Hershey Kiss named official PA candy finds sweet success

Reporter Michele Haddon covers small business, economic development, community revitalization, art and culture for The Intelligencer and Bucks County Courier Times at PhillyBurbs.com. Please considering supporting local journalism with a subscription.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Bill for Hershey's Kisses to be official candy of PA advances to Senate
Lebanese sources say a relief centre was targeted in the Habbariyeh strike

Hezbollah has fired a barrage of rockets into northern Israel, killing one person, in response to deadly Israeli strikes on a Lebanese village.

Lebanese sources said seven people were killed in the Israeli attack overnight on Habbariyeh, making it one of the deadliest in recent violence.

Israel said militants were killed, including one involved in attacks on Israel.

The Lebanese group targeted said those killed were "rescuers".

Later on Wednesday Lebanese media reported that several people had been killed in further Israeli strikes. Israel has not yet commented.

The strikes come as Israel and Hezbollah trade almost daily strikes across the border, which began with the start of the Israel-Gaza war following the 7 October Hamas attack on Israel.

Hezbollah is a Lebanese Shia Muslim militant group with close ties to Iran and an ally of Hamas.

One of the rockets targeting Kiryat Shmona hit an industrial site

Hezbollah fired dozens of rockets at the Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona and a military base there on Wednesday morning.

Israel's Magen David Adom ambulance service said a factory worker was pulled from wreckage after one of the strikes hit an industrial park triggering a fire.

He had severe wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene, it added.

Hezbollah said the rocket attacks were "in response to the massacre in Habbariyeh".

Lebanese officials said the strikes on the village had hit an emergency and relief centre for Jamaa Islamiya, a Sunni Muslim group with links to Hamas.

The Lebanese Ambulance Association, quoted by the Associated Press, called the strike a "flagrant violation of humanitarian work".

The Israel Defense Forces described the target as a "military compound".

They said: "A significant terrorist operative belonging to the Jamaa Islamiya organisation who advanced attacks against Israeli territory was eliminated along with additional terrorists who were with him."

According to UN figures from before the latest attacks, 316 people have been killed in Lebanon since the conflict began, at least 54 of them civilians.

Up to 20 have lost their lives on the Israeli side, around half of them civilians.

Israel-Lebanon map
Rome  Italy has not only renewed but decided to expand a controversial program to remove children from their mafia families to break the cycle of criminal behavior being passed down to new generations.

The "Free to Choose" project has been in place in the Calabria region  the base of the powerful 'Ndragheta crime syndicate  since 2012. Now, it will be extended to the Sicily and the Campania regions, respectively home to the notorious Cosa Nostra and Camorra mafias.

The aim of the program is to remove children from the mob culture they were born into and break the generational cycle of crime, giving the children a chance to live a normal life.

Authorities can only remove a child if they can prove to a court that they're physically or mentally endangered by their family's criminality. Police and social workers then swoop in without warning and take the child away. The families have no say in the matter.

People take part in a demonstration on Italy's National Day of Remembrance and Commitment to Remembering the Victims of the Mafia, March 21, 2024 in Rome. / Credit: Stefano Montesi/Corbis via Getty

So far, 150 children have been removed from their families and placed in foster care in secret locations around the country. Thirty mothers have chosen to join their children, with seven also agreeing to act as witnesses for state prosecutors.

"This is a historic moment in the fight against the mafia," Justice Minister Carlo Nordio said at the signing of the document extending the program, which was attended by five government ministers and the Italian Bishops Conference. "The fight against the mafias is also fought by opening new paths to generations capable of freely deciding which future to live."

Roberto di Bella, who founded the program, said at the signing ceremony that during his 25 years as a juvenile court judge in Calabria, he found himself trying fathers, and then their sons.

"We tried boys for trying to kill their mothers who wanted to separate from their mafia husbands," he said. With the Free to Choose program, he said, "we set out to change life trajectories that would otherwise have been inevitable."

"There are children being taught to shoot at eight years old. There are children dealing crack at eight years old," said Chiara Colosimo, head of the Italian parliament's anti-mafia commission.

Di Bella said he'd been contacted by some mothers asking for help in saving their children from mob indoctrination. He said he'd even received letters from several mafia bosses thanking him for giving their children a chance at a different life.

But the scheme has also drawn criticism, with some arguing that even mobsters have the right to be fathers.

A crackdown, and Italy's evolving mafia landscape

Italy has waged a concerted law enforcement crackdown on organized crime in recent years, and it has led not only to hundreds of arrests and prosecutions, but a shift in the entire mafia landscape.

In September, Matteo Messina Denaro, a convicted mastermind of some of the most heinous murders carried out by Cosa Nostra and considered Italy's No. 1 fugitive, died in a prison hospital just a few months after being captured. He'd spent decades on the run.

A long-ignored crime syndicate based in southern Italy's Puglia region, known as the Fourth Mafia, has emerged in recent years as the country's most violent mafia.

One of the leaders of the group, based in the town of Foggia, escaped from a maximum security prison in 2023 by tying bed sheets together, but was captured in France in February.

The clans based in and around Foggia  though less sophisticated than the 'Ndrangheta, the Camorra or the Cosa Nostra crime syndicates  are said to rely on extortion, bombings and threats to extort residents.

Eye Opener: Details emerge on what happened before the Baltimore bridge collapse

New details on Baltimore Key Bridge collapse, rescue efforts and more

Mega Millions $1.3 billion winning ticket sold in New Jersey
President Joe Biden announced he would be visiting Baltimore next week and his administration approved $60m in emergency aid after the Dali container ship collided with the citys Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to dramatically collapse and propelling members of a construction crew into the cold water below.

The cause of the 26 March collision is still unknown. As the investigation is still underway, the mission has shifted from one of recovery to one of clearing the waters.

This work will not take hours. This work will not take days. This work will not just take weeks. We have a very long road ahead of us. We understand that. And were prepared, Maryland Gov Wes Moore said at a Thursday evening press conference. He praised the Biden-Harris administrations release of funds, as the president administration has promised to use federal funds to rebuild the bridge.

While the state works to quickly restore the Baltimore port, the community mourns as six members of a construction crew, who were refilling potholes and fell into the Patapsco River when the Dali slammed into the bridge, havent been found.

After a 17-hour search for the missing men on the day of the incident, the Coast Guard suspended search operations, presuming that the six unaccounted-for workers were dead at that point.

The search team found two bodies in a submerged red pickup truck the following morning.

So far, four of the six missing men have been publicly identified.

Heres what we know about the Baltimore bridge collapse:

The collision

At around 1.30am ET local time, the Singapore-flagged vessel Dali struck a column on the Francis Scott Key Bridge, leading multiple parts of the 1.6-mile-long bridge to tumble into the water.

Just moments before the collision, the ships crew issued a mayday call. Maryland Gov Wes Moore added that the call undoubtedly saved lives, giving time for authorities to stop cars from continuing on the bridge.

The crew warned the Maryland Department of Transportation that a collision with the bridge was possible, the report said. The vessel struck the bridge causing a complete collapse.

Its still unclear what caused the accident. But the ship was just 30 minutes into its 27-day journey to Sri Lanka.

Marcel Muise, the chief investigator for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), said data from the shipping containers voyage data recorder, sometimes referred to as a black box, was still being analysed.

Mr Muise said that around 1.27am on Tuesday, one of the two pilots of the Dali had made radio contact regarding a blackout and ordered for the port anchor to be dropped as well as issuing additional steering commands.

Several seconds later the pilot issued another radio call over the radio reporting that the Dali had lost all power and was approaching the bridge, Mr Muise said.

Transportation authorities say the water under the bridge is around 50 feet deep.

At least six people are still missing as the search continues (PA)

There was no indication that the crash was intentional, officials said.

Kevin Cartwright, director of communications for the Baltimore Fire Department, told The Associated Press that it appeared there were some cargo or retainers hanging from the bridge, creating unsafe and unstable conditions, and that emergency responders had to operate cautiously.

Jennifer Homendy, chair of the NTSB, said that over 750 tonnes of hazardous materials had been onboard the Dali container ship when the crash occurred.

An NTSB hazmat investigator was able to identify 56 containers of hazardous materials, a total of 764 tonnes of hazardous materials, Ms Homendy told a press conference on 27 March. The materials were mostly corrosives, flammables, and some miscellaneous hazardous materials, she added.

Some of the hazmat containers were breached, though state authorities have been made aware.

The missing men

Eight people were initially believed to be in the water after the container ship collided with the bridge  four of whom are still missing.

Two survivors were pulled from the water on the day of the collision. One has been taken to a trauma unit and is in serious condition, while the other was uninjured.

Mr Cartwright said the city was dealing with a developing mass casualty incident.

A multi-agency rescue ensued, in search of the six missing people, with dive team members going into the river to try and locate them.

The Coast Guard also deployed small boats and helicopters to help in the search.

The collapse has been described as catastrophic (via REUTERS)

After almost a full day of searching for the six, the Coast Guard announced at 7.30pm on Tuesday evening that the search was suspended and would transform into a recovery effort the next morning.

Id like to announce tonight that based on the length of time that weve gone in this search, the extensive search efforts weve put into it, the water temperature, that at this point we do not believe that were going to find any of these individuals still alive, said Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath.

Officials revealed that the missing six were members of a construction crew  employed by Brawner Builders  hired to refill potholes.

Brawner Builders employee Jesus Campos told The Baltimore Banner that the still unaccounted-for individuals are all men in their 30s and 40s.

They are all hard-working, humble men, Mr Campos told the outlet.

Two of the men  Miguel Luna and Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval  were named by family members as being among the workers on the bridge who went missing after the structure collapsed into the river below.

Both men were married and had children. Luna was from El Salvador and Sandoval was from Honduras; they had both been living in the US for nearly two decades.

Their bodies have not yet been recovered.

Col Roland Butler Jr of Maryland State Police said at a 27 March evening press conference that agencies made a tragic finding just before 10am that morning: a red pickup truck submerged in 20 feet of water with two victims trapped inside.

They were identified as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26. Fuentes was from Mexico while Cabrera was from Guatemala.

An unthinkable tragedy

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is an unthinkable tragedy, Baltimore city mayor Brandon Scott said.

We have to be thinking about the families and people impacted, folks who we have to try to find. This is what our focus should be on right now, were going to continue to work in partnership with every part of government to do everything we can to get us through the other side of this tragedy, he said.

It is unclear what caused the collapse (Sky News)

Maryland Gov Wes Moore declared a state of emergency in his state hours after the bridges collapse.

On 27 March, the governor announced that the flags would be flown at half-staff. Later that day at a press conference, he said, The collapse of the Key bridge is not just a Maryland crisis. The collapse of the Key Bridge is a global crisis. The national economy and the global economy depends on the Port of Baltimore.

In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, the White House called it a horrific incident.

Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre gave condolences on behalf of the White House at a press conference: Our hearts go out to the families of the six individuals still missing.

Mr Biden told reporters on Friday, 29 March that he plans to visit Baltimore next week.

How did the crash occur?

The cause of the collision is still being investigated, but evidence suggests the vessel lost power just before it crashed into the bridge.

The NTSB recovered the voyage data recorder (VDR), or black box, which provided a minute-by-minute timeline of the lead-up to the crash.

The data was made public on 27 March, showing that the Dali departed from Baltimores Seagirt Marine Terminal at 12.39am on Tuesday 26 March.

By 1.24am, the ships bridge audio recorded numerous alarms. Around the same time, the VDR stopped recording the vessels system data, but it was able to continue taping audio from an alternative power source.

The VDR resumed recording the system data and captured steering commands and orders about its rudder. Seconds later, the ships pilot issued a radio call to tugboats close by asking for assistance for the stricken vessel. The pilot association dispatcher then called the MDTA duty officer about a blackout, NTSB said.

A minute later, the pilot ordered the Dali to drop the port anchor and issued another high-frequency radio call, reporting that the ship had lost all power and was approaching the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

A transit authority duty officer alerted two units  one on each side of the bridge  who were already on the scene and ordered them to stop traffic, shutting down all lanes.

Two minutes after the warning call was made, at 1.29am, the VDR recorded 33 seconds of sound consistent with the vessel colliding into the bridge, the NTSB wrote. The Dali was moving at just under 8 miles per hour.

The pilot then radioed the US Coast Guard to report the bridge had come down.

The 300-metre-long vessel was embarking on a journey to Sri Lanka and was only 30 minutes in when it collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge (Getty Images)

While deeper analysis of the black box data has yet to come out, some experts have also questioned whether the structural integrity of the bridge itself was strong enough.

Julian Carter, a structural and civil engineering expert, earlier told Sky News that the structures of the bridge were very weak at certain points.

Fire officials said earlier that they do not have any information as to whether there was a problem with the 300-metre-long ship, and have not spoken to the pilot of the vessel yet.

Chief Wallace added that he could not confirm if there had been a fuel leakage from the cargo ship.

We hope as the sun comes up, we will get a much better picture if we do have a fuel spill and what the impact has been so far, he said.

Gov Moore said on 27 March that its still unclear what caused the ships power to go out. There needs to be accountability to make sure these things do not happen again and that we have a system in place to make sure they dont, he said at a press conference.

Recovery efforts

State officials announced they have suspended recovery operations, due to safety concerns for divers and an inability to reach vehicles.

Gov Moore announced on Thursday that the operation to clear debris was set to begin after the Biden-Harris administration approved the governors request for $60m to fund the relief effort.

The governor noted that the initial funds will serve as a down payment toward initial costs, and additional Emergency Relief program funding will be made available as work continues.

Although Mr Moore did not provide an exact timeline for how long the process will take, he warned, This work will not take hours. This work will not take days. This work will not just take weeks. We have a very long road ahead of us. We understand that. And were prepared.

At a Friday press conference, Gov Moore labelled the incident a human tragedy, adding, We need to continue to focus on recovery because we need to give a sense of closure to these families.

The recovery efforts were paused as the conditions were deemed unsafe for divers until the wreckage was cleared, the governor said.

On Saturday, authorities said that rescue divers remained on standby and would return to the waters as soon as conditions improve. Governor Moore told reporters: Right now, the conditions make it unsafe for rescue divers. But as soon as those conditions change, Colonel [Roland] Butler has assured me that those rescue divers will be going right back in the water.

Four massive cranes are coming in to help lift the wreckage.

Two have arrived, one arrives tonight and the fourth is arriving on Monday, Mr Moore said.

A crane works on clearing debris from the Francis Scott Key Bridge (Getty Images)

One of the cranes  the Chesapeake 1000 is capable of lifting 1000 tonnes  but the Key Bridge weighs somewhere between three and four times that, so the bridge needs to be cut into sections, he explained.

The first crane lift of debris was scheduled to take place on Saturday.

At a press conference, Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said: This is a step in that process, much like when you run a marathon, youve got to take the first few steps. Were taking those few first few steps, and will continue to get the resources in that will propel us to the finish line, but were working to get there as fast as we can.

Were going to open it as soon as possible and were gonna continue to do it safely.

The container vessel Dali

All members of the crew were accounted for after the crash.

The Dalis 22-member crew and its two pilots were all safe, Synergy Marine Group said in a statement. One crew member sustained minor injuries and has since been treated and discharged from the hospital. The injured crew member returned to the vessel on 27 March, the company said.

Interviews conducted by the NTSB with the two pilots of the Dali container ship are scheduled for Thursday, 28 March.

Jennifer Homendy, NTSB chair, said that an interview with the ships captain had taken place on 27 March, along with the mate, chief engineer and one of the other engineers. She added that the container ship currently has power, but is stationary.

They are not sitting in the dark, but it cannot move, she said.

Reports claim that the crew lost propulsion of the Dali after it left the Baltimore Port (REUTERS)

The boats length overall (LOA) is 299.92 metres and its width is 48.2 metres.

The Dali had just set sail and had only travelled just over four miles from the Seagirt Marine Terminal in the Port of Baltimore before it collided with the west side of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, according to VesselFinder.

It was about to embark on a 27-day journey to Colombo, Sri Lanka, which is roughly 10,220 miles, although it only managed to complete a fraction of its journey  about 30 minutes  before it crashed.

While the vessel had a fairly good safety record, Mr Buttigieg noted, the Dali had reportedly been involved in another incident back in 2016, port authorities told CNN.

The same ship that struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge was also involved in an incident at the Port of Antwerp in Belgium, the outlet reported.

According to Vessel Finder, the Dali reportedly collided with the side of the stone wall quay as it was leaving the port, and consequently damaged the stern and transom of the vessel.

The incident was reportedly blamed on a mistake by the ships master and pilot onboard and there were no injuries.

Separately, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore said that the Dali had passed previous foreign port state inspections, according to a 27 March statement.

While the vessel passed two separate foreign port inspections in June and September 2023, the agency noted that during June, the ship suffered from a faulty monitor gauge for fuel pressure, which was rectified before the vessel departed the port.

In June 2023, a port in Chile reported an issue with the fuel heaters pressure gauges before it was fixed before departing, the Associated Press reported.

The Independent has asked the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore to clarify at which foreign ports the inspections took place.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge

Before the Francis Scott Key Bridge catastrophically plummeted into the Patapsco River, the structure had stood for 47 years in its completion as the final link in the I-695 (the Baltimore Beltway).

The bridge got its name from Francis Scott Key, the man who penned the US national anthem The Star-Spangled Banner, who also happens to be a distant cousin and the namesake of the writer F Scott Fitzgerald.

The Maryland native was thought to be close to where the bridge was eventually erected when he witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1814, inspiring him to write the words to the anthem, the Maryland Transportation Authority wrote on its website.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was completed in 1977 and carried 11.3 million vehicles a year (AP)

It took five years to complete the bridge, between 1972 and 1977 and carried some 11.3 million vehicles a year before it fell into the river on Tuesday.

The four-lane steel bridge spanned 1.6 miles across the river and had 185 feet of vertical clearance.

The bridge leads up to the Port of Baltimore, which is the USs busiest port for car shipments, according to data from the Maryland Port Administration, Reuters reports, as well as being the largest US port by volume for handling heavy farm and construction machinery.

NTSB Chair Homendy said that the bridge was fracture critical but had been in satisfactory condition prior to the crash.

The last inspection of the bridge occurred in May 2023. The structure receives over 30,700 vehicles crossing it each day, Ms Homendy said.

The bridge is fracture critical. What that means is if a member fails, that would likely cause a portion of or the entire bridge to collapse, Ms Homendy told a press conference on 27 March.

The preferred method for building bridges today is that there is redundancy built in whether thats transmitting loads to another member or some sort of structural redundancy. This bridge did not have redundancy.

There are 17,468 fracture critical bridges in the United States out of around 615,000 bridges total, according to the Federal Highway Administration (FHA).

This bridge was in satisfactory condition, Ms Homendy added. The last fractional fracture critical inspection was in May 2023. We have not been able to go through that inspection and all the documents that but that will occur after we leave the on-scene portion [of the investigation].

Earlier on Wednesday US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said that while the bridge took five years to build, that does not necessarily mean it will take five years to replace.

Implications for global trade

In a speech on Tuesday afternoon, President Joe Biden vowed to use federal funds to rebuild the bridge and promised to move heaven and earth to reopen the bridge as soon as humanly possible, emphasising the critical role that the bridge and the port play for daily travel, trade and the economy.

Mr Buttigieg reiterated this sentiment at a press conference on Wednesday, saying Mr Biden has urged the federal government to tear down any barriers, bureaucratic as well as financial that could affect the timeline of this project.

Mr Biden said that more than 30,000 vehicles cross every day. He called it one of the most important elements of the economy and quality of life in the Northeast corridor. Not to mention that 850,000 vehicles go through the port every year.

The port is shut down indefinitely after the bridges catastrophic collapse.

Experts have warned that there could be long-term impacts on global trade and insurance premiums as a result of the bridges collapse.

Andrew Tettenborn, Professor of Commercial Law at Swansea University, said there could be a short-term impact on global trade in the coal industry, but added that the US are good at diverting coal exports. A lot of the trade will be picked up elsewhere, he said.

When asked about the indefinite blocking of the port, he said: Even if it is blocked for a time, I wouldnt think it would have an enormous effect.

But the port and its affiliated workers are already feeling the effects.

Roughly a dozen cargo ships were believed to be stuck inside the port and another 30 small cargo ships, tug boats and pleasure craft were also in the port, while about 40 heading for Baltimore were forced to divert

The president added that 15,000 jobs depend on that port, on top of the 140,000 jobs linked to port activities, Marylands governor noted last month.

A day after the incident, Mr Buttigieg said a main area of concern was the livelihoods of port workers, estimating that thousands of jobs could be affected by the incident.

Gov Moore also noted that last year the port handled a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo  worth more than $80bn in value. It ranked ninth in the nations ports in foreign cargo handled, and first for volume of autos and light trucks, the statement said.

The Port of Baltimore ranked as the 17th top US port in 2023, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

As Mr Biden alluded, the port is a hub for travel. The governor wrote that over 444,000 individuals cruised out of the Port of Baltimore in 2023 alone.

There is no question that this will be a major and protracted impact to supply chains, the transportation secretary said in the aftermath of the disaster.

The port already took a hit hours after the incident.

Maersk, which chartered the Dali vessel, said it would be omitting Baltimore on all our services for the foreseeable future, until it is deemed safe for passage through this area, in a 26 March morning statement.

Gov Moore emphasised the impact of the collision: The collapse of the Key bridge is not just a Maryland crisis. The collapse of the Key bridge is a global crisis. The national economy and the global economy depends on the Port of Baltimore.
BOWLING GREEN -- Kyle Rittenhouse, who gained nationwide fame after he fatally shot two protesters, is scheduled to speak at Western Kentucky University.

Rittenhouse was 17 in August 2020 when he fired an AR-15-style rifle during a protest over the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He was later acquitted on five charges, including intentional homicide.

"The Rittenhouse Recap" is set for 7 p.m. today inside the Downing Student Union. The event is sponsored by the WKU chapter of Turning Point USA, an organization promoting conservative political values.

One group of protesters, the Bowling Green Freedom Walkers, is planning to meet an hour earlier across the street. And they wont be the only group in attendance.

Here is a look at what's happening in Bowling Green.

While Rittenhouses appearance was scheduled for the evening, protesters didnt wait to begin.

7:45 p.m.  The forum ends

Rittenhouse stepped down from the podium around 7:45 p.m. Protestors chanted loudly for a short time, but the crowd is starting to disperse.

7:15 p.m.  The forum begins

Rittenhouse took center stage soon after 7 p.m.  with hundreds of protesters booing outside the venue.

Two separate groups of protesters  For The People and the Bowling Green Freedom Walkers  met outside Downing Student Union before the event began. The two groups chanted in the lead-up to the event and didnt let up once the forum began.

The crowd inside was limited, as the room had a capacity of about 120 people. Protesters and supporters alike appear to have been let in.

Judging by the reaction from outside Downing Student Union, it appears Kyle Rittenhouses forum at WKU has started pic.twitter.com/YPFIYqfXuu  Lucas Aulbach (@LucasAulbach) March 28, 2024

6 p.m.: A capacity crowd

Western Kentucky senior Imanii Giles leads hundreds of students in chants to protest Kyle Rittenhouses talk on their campus on Wednesday, March 27, 2024.

Hundreds lined up at Downing Student Union to enter the forum by the time gates opened at 5:30 p.m.

Fifteen minutes later, theyd reached capacity. Ben LeNeave was there to speak with attendees in line, with a shirt that read print guns, not money and a sign-up sheet for his libertarian organization Young Americans for Liberty.

Rittenhouse was in kind of a dumb situation on the night of the shooting, LeNeave said, but he did what was necessary to not get probably beaten to death.

I hope he speaks to both sides a little bit, LeNeave said. I think hes mostly here to talk about the right to self-defense and the Second Amendment, things like that.  I do support him getting out.

Rittenhouse was set to speak at 7 p.m. LeNeave had gathered about a dozen signatures in 20 minutes, he added.

5:15 p.m.: WKU addresses protests

In a statement Wednesday afternoon, WKU said it made its stance clear on Rittenhouses planned event  Caboni told students and faculty earlier this week that the school cannot prevent a student group from hosting a political event even if the speakers views are different or offensive  but it respects students who have spoken out.

In his message to campus Monday, President Caboni outlined a number of ways the campus community could appropriately address topics or speakers with which they disagree, WKU spokesperson Jace Lux said in an email. We are proud that our students chose to make their position known in a thoughtful, peaceful and respectful manner today.

Some students also raised concerns over WKUs lack of action in opposing anti-DEI legislation in the General Assembly. The statement from WKU said the school does not speak in detail about pending legislation publicly for a number of reasons as a matter of practice.

5 p.m.: Protests on campus

Western Kentucky University senior Tani Washington leads a group of students in chants to protest Kyle Rittenhouses talk on campus on Wednesday, March 27, 2024.

Protesters who attended the sit-in left at about 4 p.m. to spread their message through campus, with others joining in as they marched.

At one point, the group stopped at a small Student Government Association outdoor gathering to call on the group to condemn Rittenhouse and Turning Point USA along with WKUs response.

Organizer Avery Wells spoke briefly with SGA representatives at the event, which an official said had been planned weeks in advance to raise money for a Louisville-based organization supporting cancer research.

We think that this is completely unacceptable that the university administration was not willing to adequately handle the situation by acknowledging the controversial nature of (Rittenhouses) presence on campus and the threat that he brings to students, Wells, a WKU senior, said. Those are two things are totally unacceptable to us.

A separate protest is planned to begin in about an hour.

3:30 p.m.: A sit-in on campus

For The People organizer Malick Diallo, left, and others held a sit-in at WKUs Wetherby Administration Building ahead of a speech by Kyle Rittenhouse on Wednesday, March 27, 2024.

While Rittenhouses appearance was scheduled for the evening, protesters didnt wait to begin.

For The People, an advocacy group for students and the community that leaders say was formed a day after the Kyle Rittenhouse flier dropped, hosted a sit-in at the schools Wetherby Administration Building. Students were met by police when they entered the campus office Wednesday morning, according to organizers Arianna Pierson and Malick Diallo, and were still there hours later, with more than 20 others seated on the lobby floor.

The administration claims neutrality but obviously they are not neutral, and we decided to come to a space where they can't hide in their offices, Pierson said. This is where they work, so you come here, you see our faces, and it's a reminder that everything that is going on regarding the political climate of the university, you cannot ignore it. If we're in your face, you can't ignore us.

They were driven to action in opposition of the Rittenhouse event, Diallo said, along with WKU leaders quiet response to Senate Bill 6 and other legislation pending in the 2024 General Assembly that would curb diversity, equity and inclusion measures at Kentucky universities.

WKU President Tim Caboni said the school cannot stop the event due to state law allowing free speech on campus. He was not made available for an interview Wednesday after a Courier Journal request Tuesday.

WKU has planned an event at Cherry Hall for students who will not attend the Rittenhouse forum, a gathering Diallo views as a distraction. He wants the university to denounce the event.

It's just been an absolute insult to our intelligence and our emotions and our feelings  and not to mention our history as well, Diallo said. This is not a one-time problem.

The group plans to continue protesting throughout the evening.

At Western Kentucky University this afternoon where it is not a normal day in Bowling Green! Conservative firebrand Kyle Rittenhouse will hold a forum on campus tonight, an event thats already sparked protests on campus ahead of its start. Background: https://t.co/7EBYe3E52H pic.twitter.com/6hMZW1wKYh  Lucas Aulbach (@LucasAulbach) March 27, 2024

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kyle Rittenhouse visits WKU
Belarussian President Alexander Lukashenko said Tuesday that the alleged perpetrators in the Moscow concert hall attack were initially fleeing toward Belarus, not Ukraine, in the aftermath of the massacre on Friday.

Lukashenkos remarks contradict assertions made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has tried to suggest Ukraine was involved in the attack, in part, by claiming that the gunmen were fleeing in the direction of Ukraine following the attack.

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack, which has been further confirmed by the United States. Ukrainian officials have also denied accusations of it playing any role in the atrocity, in which nearly 140 people were killed and dozens more were injured.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Lukashenko touted the security measures that Belarus took following the attack, including some measures undertaken in coordination with Russia. He said when the attackers saw the security measures, they realized they would not be able to escape into Belarus.

Thats why they couldnt enter Belarus. They saw it. So they turned away and went to the section of the Ukrainian-Russian border, Lukashenko said about the perpetrators, according to the Belarusian state media outlet BELTA.

Putin and other Kremlin officials have aggressively pushed the narrative that Ukraine was involved in the attack.

On Tuesday, the head of the Federal Security Service (FSB), Alexander Bortnikov, doubled down on Putins unsubstantiated claim that the attack could not have been carried out by the Islamic State alone and that the Ukrainians somehow assisted, according to the Russian state media outlet TASS.

The primary data we received from the detainees confirms this, he said, repeating Putins claim that the bandits themselves intended to go abroad, specifically to the territory of Ukraine.

The attack came just days after Putin secured another term in office, in an election widely repudiated as undemocratic and orchestrated by Putin and his allies.

Shortly after the attack, reports circulated that Putin had brushed off U.S. warnings of extremist attacks in Moscow days ahead of the incident.

The U.S. Embassy in Russia issued a security alert warning on March 7 that extremists were planning an attack in Moscow and advised individuals to avoid large gatherings over the following two days.

Three days before the attack, Putin called the embassys alerts provocative and outright blackmail intended to damage Russian society.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko appears to have cast doubt on Russias claims that Ukraine was involved in the brutal attack at a Moscow concert hall last week.

ISIS claimed responsibility for the massacre, which killed at least 139 people, and released graphic footage of the incident, but Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly suggested, without evidence, that Ukraine had helped orchestrate it.

Putin on Saturday claimed that a window had been prepared for the attackers to escape to Ukraine, which Kyiv has denied.

But Lukashenko, one of Putins most loyal allies, on Tuesday appeared to contradict the Kremlins claims, saying that the attackers initially intended to enter Belarus rather than Ukraine.

They could not enter Belarus. Their handlers knew that it would be a very bad idea to try to enter Belarus, because Belarus immediately reinforced security measures, Lukashenko said, according to Belarusian news agency Belta.

Lukashenko said he received reports from Russian authorities minutes after the attack began and put Belarusian units on combat alert, setting up checkpoints on roads to prevent the attackers entering the country.

Thats why there was no chance they could enter Belarus. They realized it. So they took a turn and headed to the Ukraine-Russia border, he said.

The attackers stormed Crocus City Hall in a Moscow suburb on Friday, shooting civilians at point blank before setting the building on fire, causing the roof to collapse while concert-goers were still inside.

Four suspects, who are from the Central Asian republic of Tajikistan but worked in Russia on temporary or expired visas, were detained later Friday night in Russias Bryansk region, near the border with Ukraine and Belarus.

In his first national address after the attack, Putin on Saturday alleged that the men tried to hide and move towards Ukraine, where, according to preliminary data, a window was prepared for them on the Ukrainian side to cross the border.

Putin on Monday conceded the attack had been carried out by radical Islamists, but still tried to pin ultimate responsibility on Ukraine.

Putin lights a candle on Sunday in memory of victims of the Crocus City Hall attack. - Kremlin

Other Kremlin officials have doubled down on the claims. Alexander Bortnikov, director of Russias Federal Security Services (FSB), alleged on Tuesday that Ukraine was involved in the training of militants in the Middle East.

Ukraine has vehemently denied involvement in the attack and called the Kremlins claims absurd. Others have speculated why the attackers would try to flee through a heavily militarized section of the border, with a large Russian troop presence.

And Lukashenko, in attempting to promote Belarus standing as a reliable ally of Russia, may have inadvertently further weakened Putins allegations.

Belta reported that Lukashenko agreed to seal off its section of the road that could be used by the criminals when he received intelligence from Russian officials, including Bortnikov, that the attackers were moving in the direction of Bryansk.

Lukashenko said he and Putin exchanged phone calls, claiming he accepted Putins request to help seal off the roads into Belarus. Absolutely. We are doing everything, Lukashenko replied.

He said he shared the information because he was aware that Putin had been reproached for his response to the tragedy. Putin had been criticized for not addressing the nation until more than 19 hours after the attack began.

Instead, Lukashenko said, he and Putin did not sleep for 24 hours, as they worked to address the threat.

Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, a suspect in the attack, appears Sunday at the Basmanny district court in Moscow. - Shamil Zhumatov/Reuters

A total of 11 people have been arrested in connection with the attack on the concert hall, Russian officials said. Four appeared in a Moscow court on Sunday and three on Monday. Its not clear if the remaining four are still in detention or have appeared before a judge.

Three of the Tajik suspects were bent double as they were marched into a Moscow courtroom on Sunday, while the fourth was in a wheelchair and appeared unresponsive. They were charged with terrorism and face a maximum sentence of life in prison.

The men looked battered and bruised as they were brought into the courtroom. Videos circulated widely on Russian social media appeared to show some of them being violently interrogated, including one that appeared to show the use of electrocution. In another video, a suspect had part of his ear cut off and stuffed in his mouth.

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Breeze Airways hooked me in November.

In March, though, it tested me. And turned off some other customers.

Like I wrote in November, if I hadnt checked a bag and rented a car, I could have gone from breakfast at home in Florida to lunch at my former hometown pizza parlor in the New York City suburbs in about four hours.

Aside from crowded waiting areas in Vero Beach and White Plains, that first trip was extraordinary  my favorite flight in this millennium.

There were no long drives or traffic at major airports. No lengthy security line. No mysterious delays.

The plane, a new Airbus A220, was as comfortable as any Ive been on in recent years. Though Id paid extra for a checked bag and larger seat  $369 round trip  the seats in the back looked larger than standard airline seats.

So when I learned Breeze would begin twice-weekly nonstop service in February between Orlando and Evansville, Indiana, where I could spend a weekend with my son, a university student there, I checked Breeze first.

Convenience, cheap fare made it a buy

As passengers continue to board a flight to Evansville, Indiana, a five-hour delay is shown on the board of a Breeze Airways gate at Orlando International Airport Friday March 1, 2024.

Learning on the fly: Breeze Airways, Vero Beach airport must address these issues after delay exposes problems

First-time flier: 'twas Breeze flying to Westchester from Vero Beach, but airports face growing pains

A lot different: Second flight: Breeze Airlines, airport improve Vero Beach service after only few months

Its departure times  5:47 p.m. northbound and 7:47 p.m. CST southbound  were outside my preferred morning flight times. But, I figured, Id get to Evansville by dinner Friday and spend almost an entire day there Monday.

It beat the alternatives traveling from Florida into the modern, smaller airport in Evansville. You can try to find a bargain airline fare into Nashville or Louisville, then face long drives; pay outrageous fares and make connections on Delta or American, or fly direct from Sanford on one of two flights a week on Allegiant, whose schedule was not as convenient for me as Breezes.

So for $118 round trip, which included a personal item and minor seat upgrade, I signed up.

Even though I sat toward the back of the plane, which had about 120 seats in a three/two configuration, I had plenty of room; it was clean and comfy.

But Breeze started testing my patience about 10:30 a.m. that Friday, texting and emailing to tell me my flight was delayed two hours. By 1 p.m., I knew my flight wouldnt take off until after 9 p.m. Thus, I could work a full day, which was helpful.

I got more texts. At first, swapping out a crew member, then a crew, on other flights caused a delay. I ended up leaving for Orlando at 7:30 p.m., getting there by a little after 9. I had no wait in the precheck line and was the only person in the train to the terminal.

Broken windshield wiper led to another delay, different jet

The Breeze Airways counter, announcing service to Orlando International Airport, is shown at Evansville Regional Airport in Indiana Monday March 4, 2024.

While waiting at the gate, we were told by Breeze officials part of the delay was in a smaller airport, where a broken windshield wiper could not be fixed right away, so wed take a different plane than originally scheduled. We waited until about 10:45 p.m. to board and didnt get to Evansville until about 12:30 a.m. CST.

There, we found what looked like what would be a plane full of Orlando-bound travelers in an otherwise empty Evansville airport. They wouldn't get to Orlando until about 4 a.m. EST. One of my sons classmates told him she did not get to her aunts home in Vero Beach until about 6 a.m.

Among those waiting in Evansville was Jeremy Whitaker of Madisonville, Kentucky, about an hour south of the airport, who had arrived at 9 p.m. with his son, Blaze, 15.

It wasnt too bad, Jeremy said, noting he was appreciative the airport stayed open late and let him wait with Blaze, who was flying solo to see motocross action in Daytona with his grandfather. It was awesome for them to do that for us.

The father was happy Breeze had just begun service to the closer Evansville airport with much cheaper fares than Nashville.

Like Whitaker, I was pleased with Breeze's alerts for me in Florida, so I didnt have to sit for hours in the airport. I got in more work, a short walk and dinner, though I missed visiting the German restaurant I'd hoped to eat at in Evansville.

Disney stay great; flights there and back not so magical

Evansville Regional Airport in Indiana has solar-paneled covered parking as shown Monday March 4, 2024.

But not everyone flying that night was happy. Not even after a visit to the Magic Kingdom.

Never again, said Jake White, who, with his wife, Lindsay, and their well-behaved 10-month-old son, Grant, of Marion, Illinois, were trying to wait patiently in the Orlando boarding area after visiting Disney.

What do you do with a 10-month-old all day? Lindsay said, noting they paid extra to stay at their resort later, changed transportation and other plans, then headed to the airport only to find restaurants closed by 8:30 p.m.

While the couple were happy with Breezes frequent texts, they were not pleased they could not reach anyone by phone and that their trip to Florida was also delayed  by three hours.

Now they suffered a five-hour delay.

Five hours was nothing to Jason Church, who stood in front of me as we walked off the jetport in his hometown of Evansville. Hed just completed a 40-hour trip back from Bangkok, Thailand, where hed been scuba diving.

Church said he was just happy to be home to sleep in his own bed. His only complaint: Breeze should have given him at least a meal voucher in Orlando, where he waited for about 11 hours.

Breeze made the wait worth my while

LAURENCE REISMAN

I was credited $50 in Breeze bucks to use on my next trip. It's the same amount my editor, Adam Neal, received per passenger last spring break when their trip from Vero Beach to Hartford, Connecticut, was delayed (like mine, not for weather) more than four hours.

By the way: My flight from Evansville to Orlando was only about 15 minutes late. Because it was such a late flight, it was a breeze getting out of the airport and back home.

And yes, I hope to fly Breeze again, preferably from Vero Beach, though I'd do it again from Orlando thanks to the great communication that saved me a wait at the airport and got me to where I wanted to go safely and comfortably.

This column reflects the opinion of Laurence Reisman. Contact him via email at larry.reisman@tcpalm.com, phone at 772-978-2223, Facebook.com/larryreisman or Twitter @LaurenceReisman.

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This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Breeze service between Florida, Indiana fine; texts mitigate delays
As the lead pilot for the deep-sea submersible Alvin, Falmouth resident Bruce Strickrott already has a claim to fame. He's one of just 45 people who've driven the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution-operated vehicle since it launched in 1964.

Now the 28-year Alvin veteran has the added distinction of having a new species of deep-sea worms named after him. Called Pectinereis strickrotti, the worms were first spotted in 2009 and again in 2018 near a methane seep in the Pacific Ocean about 30 miles off Costa Rica. They were finally confirmed and announced as a new species in a study published in the science research journal PLOS ONE on March 6.

Falmouth resident Bruce Strickrott, lead pilot for Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution's Alvin, is shown in the hatch of the deep-sea submersible. A newly identified species of deep-sea worm, Pectinereis strickrotti, has been named in Strickrotts honor.

Strickrott was literally the driver behind the discovery, shuttling researchers more than half a mile to the sea floor to study the marine life around the seep, an area where methane escapes the seafloor in the form of gas bubbles. He was one of the first, along with California-based marine biologist and study leader Greg Rouse, to get a fleeting glance at the worms during the 2009 dive about 3,280 feet below the surface.

Rouse, of UC San Diegos Scripps Institution of Oceanography, gave Strickrott's name to the new species in recognition of his role in its discovery.

A live male specimen of the new species of deep-sea worm, named Pectinereis strickrotti, is shown. The worm is named after submersible pilot and Falmouth resident Bruce Strickrott, of Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, who helped discover it. The worm's feathery appendages are called parapodia and carry the worms gills.

"I'm honored that Greg saw fit to name this after me. It means a lot," said Strickrott, speaking recently by phone from the mid-Pacific at another study site along the East Pacific Rise, just north of the equator. "I think it's representative of how the program and the technology helps scientists get to places they wouldn't be able to go without Alvin."

A first encounter with the sea worm

He recalled the first encounter with the newest sea worm species, in 2009, when he and Rouse spotted two of the worms during a dive.

"We didn't know what they were. We just saw these creatures sort of hovering about six feet off the bottom. They were long and skinny," he said.

The worms were difficult to see and Strickrott said he tried to nudge Alvin in for a closer look. But, as he humorously says, "it's hard to creep in a submarine," and so off the worms went.

The researchers, whose work was supported by the National Science Foundation, saw enough to suspect they might have witnessed something new to science.

It wasn't until 2018, when the researchers returned to Costa Rica's methane seeps, with Strickrott once again at the helm of the U.S. Navy-owned submersible, that they again encountered the creatures. This time they saw several individual worms.

"They were not nearly as skittish as the first time," he said, explaining they were likely in reproductive mode.

'Move like a magic carpet'

As they did the first time, Strickrott said the worms' graceful way of moving struck him as unique. He'd seen other sea worms move in a twisting motion, "almost like a helix." In contrast, Strickrott's worms undulate.

"These really move like a magic carpet," he said.

During that dive, Strickrott became the first to capture live specimens for closer study, using a five-chambered vacuum canister device on Alvin known as the slurp gun." It can be a delicate operation that requires some skillful maneuvering.

"We work with some really complex equipment. And it's a 23-foot submarine that you're pirouetting around in," he said. "There are times when it's frustrating. Getting these really fine samples doesn't always go the way you want."

Falmouth resident Bruce Strickrott, lead pilot for the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution's submersible Alvin, peers out a porthole during a deep-sea research cruise.

The team also captured images and video of the worms, evidence they used in proving them to be members of a previously undiscovered species  a process that can take years of anatomical and DNA analysis, and comparing to known species.

A 4-inch long member of the ragworm family

Strickrott's worm is a 4-inch long member of the ragworm family, a group of about 500 species of segmented, mostly marine worms that look like a cross between a centipede and an earthworm. They have elongated bodies with rows of bristled appendages called parapodia on their sides and a hidden set of pincer-shaped jaws that can be extended for feeding.

It's not the first time a new species has been named for a pilot of Alvin, which will officially mark six decades of discovery this June. Past pilot Dudley Foster had a new comb jelly named for him, Bathocyroe fosteri, in the late 1970s, and Paul Tibbetts helped collect a new species of Pacific mussel in the late 1980s, resulting in the naming of Punctabyssia tibbettsi.

The worm is not the first new species to bear Strickrott's name. In 2007, another new species discovered in the southern part of the East Pacific Rise was named Eptatretus strickrotti.

"If you go to Wikipedia you'll find Strickrott's hagfish, which is basically an animal that eats dead fish," he said, adding, "the last part of my name is rot, so it works for me."

With the ragworm, Strickrott said, he now has "one that's an invertebrate and one that's a vertebrate."

At the Costa Rican methane seeps

According to WHOI, Rouse and other researchers have observed about 450 species at the Costa Rican methane seeps since 2009, with Strickrott's ragworm bringing the number of species that were new to science to 48. Rouse said these stats underscore how much more there is left to learn about the inhospitable, deep-sea ecosystems and their biological importance.

Falmouth resident Bruce Strickrott, lead pilot for the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution's submersible Alvin, stands in front of the submersible during a research cruise in 2022.

Weve spent years trying to name and describe the biodiversity of the deep sea, he said. At this point we have found more new species than we have time to name and describe. It just shows how much undiscovered biodiversity is out there.

Strickrott said it's inspiring to be a part of the discoveries.

"The life down there is teeming. It's just mind-blowing. It's proven that life is persistent. If there's energy, if there's resources, it's going to take advantage," he said. "It's a pretty special experience to go down there, and to go down with experts. I'm an engineer, yet I'm getting trained by the best by being there and talking to them. It's a joy to be part of it."

Besides Rouse, other contributors to the Strickrott's ragworm study include Sonja Huc, Avery Hiley, and Ekin Tilic, all of Scripps. Tulio Villalobos-Guerrero of the Centro de Investigacion Cientifica y de Educacion Superior de Ensenada is the studys first author and conducted the primary anatomical analysis.

Heather McCarron can be reached at hmccarron@capecodonline.com, or follow her on X @HMcCarron_CCT

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This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Deep-sea worm named for Alvin pilot Bruce Strickrott of Falmouth
Divers have discovered the remains of two construction workers found in a red pickup truck that plunged into Baltimores harbour after a bridge collapsed.

The bodies were pulled from the freezing Patapsco River on Wednesday morning, a day after the Dali container ship lost power and collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, knocking most of it into the water.

They were identified as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, from Mexico, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, from Guatemala, and discovered in the pickup around 25 feet of water on Wednesday.

Four other construction workers are unaccounted for and presumed dead, the Coast Guard said. They were repairing potholes on the bridge when it collapsed at 1.30am on Tuesday.

Officials announced on Wednesday night they were suspending their recovery operation because of the increasingly treacherous conditions in the water.

Because of the superstructure surrounding what we believe were the vehicles and the amount of concrete and debris, divers are no longer able to safely navigate and operate around that, said Col Roland Butler, the superintendent of Maryland State Police.

We have exhausted all search efforts.

The body of Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera has been recovered from the Patapsco River

Officials have suspended the recovery operation beneath the remains of the Francis Scott Key Bridge - AP

Three of the eight workers on the bridge at the time of the incident were Mexican, with the remainder from Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. Two were found alive on Tuesday.

The tragedy led Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, the Mexican president, to criticise US over its treatment of migrant workers.

Mr Lopez Obrador said that insensitive, irresponsible politicians did not understand the contribution of migrants in the US, including the workers who were plunged into the freezing Patapsco River when the Dali container ship destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

He added: This demonstrates that migrants go out and do risky jobs at midnight, and for this reason they do not deserve to be treated as they are by certain insensitive, irresponsible politicians in the United States.

Eight migrant workers were filling potholes when the Dali container ship collided with the bridge - Peter Knudson/NTSB

NTSB investigators on the bridge of the cargo vessel Dali - Peter Knudson/NTSB

The president has become a vocal critic of the US government in recent months, accusing the Biden administration of expecting Mexico to solve problems with illegal migration and cartels. He said last week he will prioritise domestic concerns over act[ing] as policemen for any foreign government, adding: Mexico First. Our home comes first.

Mexicos foreign affairs ministry said the two missing Mexican workers are from the states of Veracruz and Michoacan. One of the other missing workers was named as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 39, who came to the US illegally from Azacualpa, a rural mountainous area in northwestern Honduras.

Miguel Luna, from El Salvador is currently missing after falling from the bridge in the early hours of Tuesday morning

He worked at Brawner Builders, the company that was performing maintenance on the bridge when it collapsed, with Miguel Luna from El Salvador, who is also missing. The search continued yesterday as the US government assessed the impact of the bridge collapse on the economy and the cost of the repairs.

Pete Buttigieg, the US Transport Secretary, said the collapse of the bridge would directly impact 8,000 workers at the Port of Baltimore, which is one of the largest ports on the East Coast and handles around one million containers each year. Its difficult to overstate the impact of this collision, he said. A hundred thousand tons, all going into this pier all at once.

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova is one of three Mexican workers who were on the bridge at the time of its collapse. He is still missing - UNPIXS

Janet Yellen, the Treasury Secretary, said that the US would use a supply chain task force established during the Covid-19 pandemic to prevent shortages caused by the port closure. Were monitoring this very closely and prepared to take any steps that can be helpful, she said, adding there will be insurance payments in part to cover this but the federal government would make funds available immediately to rebuild the bridge as fast as possible.

The majority of the cargo bound for Baltimore has been diverted to Virginia or New York as officials try to avoid an increase in domestic prices as a result of the incident.

The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the causes of the crash, which started when the Dali lost power shortly after leaving the Port of Baltimore.

Investigators boarded the ship on Wednesday, where the crew remained after the disaster, and collected its black box to be examined for evidence.

One avenue of inquiry is understood to be focusing on whether the ship was filled with contaminated fuel, which disrupted the power supply.

Vice Adml Peter Gautier, of the US Coast Guard, said that 56 of the ships 4,700 containers contain hazardous materials, but that there is no threat to the public.

The ship, which was just 30 minutes into a 27-day voyage, is also still carrying 1.5 million gallons of fuel and lubricant oil.

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Kaliyah King Magee, at bottom, poses for a selfie with her aunt, Patricia King, in this undated photo. Kaliyah was 4 years old when prosecutors say she was beaten to death Dec. 16, 2022, while in the care of Winston Chambers and Princess Arredondo.

Confessed child killer Winston Chambers will spend the next 25 years in prison in the death of 4-year-old Kaliyah King Magee.

The Milwaukee man said he took responsibility for his actions during his sentencing Wednesday, and apologized for taking Kaliyah's life nearly two years ago.

Kaliyah's mother, Princess King, wasn't moved.

"I hate you," King told Chambers in court, her voice calm, but strained. "You're a grown man doing this to a child. I hope you get everything you deserve while youre in there."

Prosecutors say Chambers, 30, beat Kaliyah into unconsciousness on Dec. 16, 2022, after King had placed her daughter in the care of Princess Arredondo, a longtime friend of King's. Chambers, Arredondo's boyfriend, also was at the home on the 700 block of South 26th Street that day.

Prosecutors believe Chambers and Arredondo each abused Kaliyah, but that it was Chambers who inflicted the most harm by kicking and punching her and striking her with belts.

Three hours went by before the child was finally taken to Children's Wisconsin hospital. Doctors found severe bruising and bite marks all over Kaliyah's body and had to perform an emergency surgery to relieve bleeding and swelling to her brain.

Kaliyah was declared dead Dec. 18 at Children's Wisconsin after her brain showed no signs of activity. Chambers, Arredondo and Chambers' mother, Corinne L. Beechtree, were charged in Kaliyah's death.

Chambers pleaded guilty earlier this month to second-degree reckless homicide as a party to a crime and to neglecting a child where the consequence is death.

Circuit Court Judge Jean M. Kies described Chambers as a "narcissist" whose crime toward a child was "cold, calculated and ... evil. She ordered him to serve 15 years in prison and five years of extended supervision upon release on the reckless homicide charge.

Kies also ordered Chambers to a 10-year prison term with five years extended supervision on the child-neglect count.

The sentences were ordered to run consecutively.

Assistant District Attorney Matthew Torbenson recommended Chambers be imprisoned for 20 to 25 years, noting the time he willfully denied Kaliyah medical care as she lay unconscious. Chambers also tried to avoid punishment by lying to investigators and hospital staff, Torbenson said.

A child abuse pediatrician ruled out Chambers' assertion that Kaliyah was struck by a passing car as he and the child stepped off a bus.

This was abuse," Torbenson said. "This was life-threatening physical abuse.

Kaliyah King-Magee was just a few weeks shy of her fourth birthday when prosecutors say she was beaten to death Dec. 16, 2022 while in the care of Winston Chambers and Princess Arredondo. Chambers and Arredondo each pleaded guilty to criminal charges in her killing.

Defense attorney Robert Lebell said Chambers and Arredondo were equally involved" in Kaliyah's death, and argued Chambers sentence should mirror hers.

Arrendondo, 30, of Milwaukee, was ordered to serve 10 years imprisonment and five years extended supervision for pleading guilty in June to neglecting a child in which the consequence is death. She also received 7 years of initial confinement and five years extended supervision for pleading guilty to a count of child abuse/failing to prevent harm. The sentences were ordered to run consecutively.

Beechtree, 57, of Brown Deer, was given three years probation after pleading guilty in September to harboring/aiding a felon.

Chambers gave a rambling 15-minute statement to Kies during which he expressed regret for his actions, and pleaded for help for what he described as mental health issues.

He wrote a letter to the family and said he has thought a lot about Kaliyah in the 15 months he has been in custody, and also contemplated suicide.

Chambers said he regretted "never hear her call me Uncle again" or that he'll no longer be able to take her to McDonald's and Chuck E. Cheese.

"I should have stopped the mistreatment sooner," Chambers said.

"I'm truly sorry for my actions," Chambers continued. "I know my asking you to forgive me is like a slap in the face, but if there's anything I could have done to change this, I would have did it.

"Princess King, I'm sorry you left your daughter in my hands and I let you down."

Chambers was given 558 days of pre-trial incarceration credit that can be applied to his sentences. He has 20 days to appeal the sentence.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee man gets 25 years for killing 4-year-old Kaliyah King Magee
I've stayed at all-inclusive resorts around the world and seen first-timers make the same mistakes.

Don't go overboard on the frozen drinks, and never fill your plate during the first pass at a buffet.

Pack an insulated travel mug and check out water-sport rentals and amenities at sister properties.

Vacationing at an all-inclusive resort is very appealing for many travelers  and with good reason.

Being able to budget before you arrive and not having to worry about toting around cash or credit cards can alleviate a lot of travel headaches.

As a travel writer, I've been to dozens of all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico, the Maldives, and more. During my stays, I see guests overlook many details that could make their sojourns much more enjoyable.

Whether you're planning your first trip to an all-inclusive resort or this is already your preferred style of vacation, here are 10 mistakes to avoid:

Not researching before booking

Some all-inclusive resorts have more amenities than others. Kelly Magyarics

Not every all-inclusive resort is designed equally. Some have gorgeous pools and underwhelming beaches, or vice-versa.

Some cater to families with dedicated kids' and teens' clubs and activities, but others prohibit guests under 18. I've stayed at resorts that run the gamut.

The point is that having everything included in and of itself isn't necessarily enough of an appeal. Think about what you're looking for in a vacation, do your research, and look beyond the slick marketing and touched-up, wide-angle pics on the resort's website.

Overlooking VIP and concierge-level room options

The term "all-inclusive" doesn't mean what it used to.

These days, some resorts offer upgraded rooms and suites in certain areas of the property, with perks that may include butler service and dedicated lounges, restaurants, pools, or beach areas for these VIP guests.

Although spending more for these amenities isn't for everyone, they can bring a sense of luxury and civility to your vacation, especially if you're staying at a crowded resort where guests are forced to set out towels before breakfast to claim lounge chairs.

Not making dinner reservations when you check in

Popular restaurants can get crowded at peak meal times. Kelly Magyarics

You may have access to a slew of restaurants at your resort, but that doesn't mean you can roll up to the host stand and automatically get a table, especially at peak dinner times (remember, everyone wants 7:30 p.m.).

To avoid disappointment, book tables for the popular spots right after you check in or before you arrive, if that's an option.

Keep in mind that depending on how many nights you're staying, you may be entitled to only a limited number of reservations for the a-la-carte concepts, so choose wisely.

My advice is to prioritize places that serve local cuisine. After all, you can get steak or pasta just about anywhere.

Filling your plate at the buffet before checking out all the options

Always scope out the buffet before diving in. Kelly Magyarics

All-inclusive resorts are often known for over-the-top buffets any time of day, with omelet and freshly-pressed-juice stations at breakfast and salad bars, local specialties, carving stations, and all the desserts at lunch and dinner.

Grabbing a plate and reaching for the serving spoons before giving the area a look-see is a rookie move and can also lead to overeating and wasting food.

Each time before tackling a buffet, take a walk around, as options can change not only from meal to meal but daily as well. And make it a point to take a spoonful of something you've never tried.

Forgetting to bring an insulated travel mug

I used to roll my eyes at resort guests who'd tote their travel mugs up to the bar to be filled with their beverage of choice.

I thought they were being overly indulgent and exploiting the concept of "all-inclusive." But now I think they're on to something.

For one thing, insulated tumblers keep drinks colder for much longer and reduce the number of trips to the bar.

Beyond that, they're more environmentally friendly than all those single-use plastic cups. If you're bringing your Stanley and asking the bartender to fill it, though, tip them for going above and beyond.

Not tipping

Speaking of tipping, I'm well aware that some all-inclusive resorts invite guests to "leave their wallets at home."

But unless the property you're staying at has a strict policy against it, small tips can go a long way. Tipping the bartender at a crowded swim-up or lobby bar when you first order, for example, can result in quicker service for your second and third rounds.

If you have a fabulous server at dinner, leaving them some cash on the table is a nice gesture. And don't forget about the housekeeping staff, who keep your room free of sand and endlessly replenish your towels.

Ordering drinks wrong

You have access to lots of drinks at all-inclusive resorts, but not all of them are good. Kelly Magyarics

Not all drinks at all-inclusive resorts are created equally.

Belly up to the lobby bar, which tends to stock top-shelf liqueur. Upgrade your pina colada by requesting it with dark or aged rum instead of white, which gives it much more flavor.

If you see Aperol or Campari on the back bar, you can be sure to get a decent spritz. Craft your own low-ABV libation by asking for sauvignon blanc or rose mixed with club soda and a dash of simple syrup, garnished with a lemon wedge.

And try the local beer or wine, if it's available.

 and going all in on fruity, frozen drinks

A pina colada is decidedly delicious  I like to have one mid-morning, which I half-jokingly refer to as a "breakfast smoothie."

But if you keep hitting the swim-up bar to order blended concoctions, you're going to end up drinking a zillion calories and probably getting a stomachache or killer hangover to boot.

If you're on a quest to keep the buzz going, maybe mix things up a bit with a spirit mixed with soda water or a wine spritzer. And don't forget to hydrate with actual water to counter the effects of all that heat and sunshine.

Not taking advantage of the amenities at sister properties

Some resorts are part of larger complexes. Kelly Magyarics

Some resorts are part of sprawling complexes with several adjacent properties owned and operated by the same parent company.

If your stay includes reciprocity (such as a "stay at one, play at three" policy), you'll have access to other facilities, including additional pools, fitness centers, beach areas, and restaurants.

Making use of them is a great way to avoid boredom and make it seem as if your vacation includes stays at multiple hotels.

Not using the non-motorized water sports

Although Jet Ski, hoverboard, and parasailing rentals can be pricey, using simpler things such as stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, floats, and even Hobie-Cats are often included in the price of an all-inclusive stay.

Yet I often see them lined up on the beach all day, barely being used.

Sign the waiver, don a life jacket, and give them a try. And if you happen to be staying at a place where these water sports are popular, add your name to the waiting list first thing in the morning.

Read the original article on Business Insider
BALTIMORE - Six workers missing after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning are presumed to be dead, the U.S. Coast Guard announced after a day of search and rescue efforts.

The search for the six became a recovery effort Tuesday evening. Two bodies were recovered from the site of the collapse in a red pickup truck Wednesday morning.

State Police said the search has moved to a salvage effort because officials believe the four still missing are in vehicles encased in the bridge debris. Divers are no longer able to operate around the debris.

The span was struck by a cargo ship shortly after it left the Port of Baltimore early Tuesday morning.

Officials say that eight people were working on the bridge at the time of the collapse. Two people were rescued from the water shortly after Tuesday's collapse. One of the rescued workers was unhurt, the other was treated at the University of Maryland Medical Center and has been discharged.

Who were the bridge collapse victims?

The men were working for Brawner Builders, filling potholes on the center span of the bridge at the time of the collapse. They were originally from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico.

One of the missing workers from El Salvador was identified as Miguel Luna by the nonprofit organization CASA.

"He is a husband, a father of three, and has called Maryland his home for over 19 years," CASA executive director Gustavo Torres said in a statement Tuesday night, noting Luna was a "longtime member of the CASA family."

Five men killed in the Key Bridge collapse have been identified. A sixth victim is a man named Carlos whose full name has not been released.

A former coworker, Moises Diaz, described Luna as a kind person who worked hard and always shared his food with other workers and friends. In an interview with CBS News, Diaz said he considered Luna like a brother.

Maryland State Police identified the two men found in the red pickup truck as Dorlian Cabrera, 26, who was originally from Guatemala and lived in Dundalk; and Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, who lived in Baltimore and was from Mexico.

The Honduran Consulate confirmed Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 34, was among the missing. His brother, Carlos Alexis, described him as a kind, big-hearted and funny family man who came to the U.S. when he was about 20. He had a teenage son and a 5-year-old daughter.

Jose Mynor Lopez, 35, was originally from Guatemala. His wife, Isabel Franco, told WJZ he moved to the U.S. 19 years ago and was a loving father to their child and three stepchildren

"He had a good heart. He was a hard worker. He was always worried about his family too. He died but he was fighting for us always," she said in Spanish.

The sixth victim, a man named Carlos whose full name has not been released, was also from Mexico.

Recovery mission paused, salvage begins

The search for bodies was paused Wednesday as attention turned to clearing debris from the deadly collapse and reopening the Port of Baltimore.

The bodies of two construction workers were recovered from a submerged truck Wednesday. Four people remain missing and are presumed dead, but divers can no longer operate around the mangled bridge debris that has encased submerged vehicles, officials said.

The span was struck by a cargo ship that had lost power shortly after it left the Port of Baltimore early Tuesday morning.

The U.S. Navy is mobilizing barges outfitted with heavy lift cranes to help clear the Patapsco River of debris.

Three cranes with varying lift capacities and support vessels are expected to begin removing submerged portions of the bridge. Two cranes arrived by Friday morning.

"This was so completely unforeseen," Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, told The Associated Press. "We don't know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers. But we never foresaw that the bridge would collapse."

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Bassirou Diomaye Faye, a Senegalese political newcomer who is set to be declared the countrys next president, has vowed to govern with humility and transparency.

Provisional results from Sundays presidential election suggest Faye, an opposition candidate, secured 53.7% of the vote, followed by former prime minister Amadou Ba, of the ruling coalition, on 36.2%. The electoral commission said those results were based on tallies from 90% of polling stations.

Faye spoke of his proposed style of government in a speech delivered after Ba called him to concede defeat.

He said Senegalese voters had decided on a break from the past by choosing him. I pledge to govern with humility and transparency, and to fight corruption at all levels, he told a press conference.

Know More

Faye, a 44-year-old former tax inspector, will become Africas youngest democratically elected head of state. And judging by his policy promises  which include reforming the euro-pegged CFA currency system  Senegal could be headed towards a divergent relationship with France.

Winning the contest in the first round and at his first attempt suggests Faye is a popular candidate whose 18 competitors never stood a chance. In reality, Faye owes his rise to 49-year-old Ousmane Sonko, Senegals best known opposition politician.

Sonko has been the governments loudest critic since finishing third in the 2019 elections when Sall was re-elected. His political machine tapped into youth disillusionment over Salls struggle to solve an unemployment crisis that has accelerated a deadly migration-by-boat wave to Europe.

Faye met Sonko during their time as tax officials, and joined the latter in politics after the political party PASTEF was formed in 2014, according to Fayes campaign biography, climbing to the role of general secretary.

Chosen to inherit this movement after Sonko was disqualified from running for the presidency, Faye will enter the top job as a relatively unknown politician. Diomaye is Sonko was his campaigns slogan in the lead up to Sunday. But it will be Faye who takes the oath of office when Sall leaves on April 2.

A campaign picture showing Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko, by John Wessels/AFP via Getty Images

Alexiss view

Two weeks ago, he was in prison. Thats been the remarkable trajectory of Fayes life over the last fortnight. He was behind bars on various charges, including defamation, prior to his release on March 14.

Senegal, usually lauded as one of Africas most stable democracies, was still reeling from President Macky Salls move to delay the vote to select his successor. But, following Sundays vote, 44-year-old Faye is set to become Senegals youngest ever president  and the country could be on the brink of a generational shift.

Fayes rapid ascent and relative youth suggest he could genuinely become an agent of change. His age clearly sets him apart on a continent dominated by elderly leaders. For example, hes less than half the age of Cameroons 91-year-old president. With that comes an entirely different perspective that should make him more attuned to the experiences of young people in Senegal, 60% of whom are aged under 25.

Some young people are so desperate for a brighter future that, faced with a lack of job opportunities, they try to reach Europe in small boats. Many dont make it. Faye campaigned on his vow to shake up the established order through policies such as a currency change and renegotiating oil and gas contracts.

The scenes of rapturous celebrations following the election are heartwarming. But Ive seen similar outpourings of joy after other elections, so Im all too aware that it doesnt necessarily end well. I recall the fanfare in Senegal 12 years ago when Sall defeated his predecessor, Abdoulaye Wade, who was chasing an unconstitutional third term. But, under Sall, wealth hasnt been distributed across Senegals relatively strong economy.

The hope is that Faye will bring a genuinely fresh approach. Unlike Sall  who had already served as prime minister when he became president  he is a political neophyte. That novice status could prove to be his biggest strength.

Notable

Fayes victory is a triumph, a shock and a wake-up call, writes Le Monde in an editorial. It argues that the undisputed first round victory was a good democratic surprise following the coups that have transformed a number of West African countries in recent years.
At his town election in New Hampshire this month, Andrew Harmon faced a realization: He knew someone on the ballot. In fact, hed gone to high school with him.

But for the New Hampton resident, what might have been a common, small-town occurrence became a minor problem. Harmon, who is legally blind, was not voting with pen and paper. He was sitting with a town election official in an enclosed tent, dictating his choices aloud to the official, who was marking the ballot. And his former classmate was somewhere outside of that tent, there in the polling place  possibly within earshot.

Embarrassed, Harmon told the official his choice. When we got to that part of the ballot, I was like, Man, I hope he cant hear me, Harmon recalled.

House Bill 1264 would require towns and cities to provide accessible voting systems in local elections that meet the Help America Vote Act of 2002 as well as the Americans With Disabilities Act.

In most major New Hampshire elections, Harmon would not be in this situation. No official would join him in the voting booth, and he would not need to speak his choices aloud. Instead, Harmon would vote with a digital device designed for voters with disabilities. He would don a pair of headphones, listen to a tablet computer read his choices aloud, tap a key on a keyboard to choose a candidate, listen as his choices were confirmed, and walk out of the tent with a freshly printed ballot with his choices filled in.

But in local elections, the system is more primitive.

New Hampshires Secretary of States Office provides specialized machines to cities and towns to assist voters with disabilities on Election Day. But following a longstanding policy, the office provides the machines to polling places only for federal and state elections.

For local elections, such as town meeting or municipal contests for mayor and city council, the cities and towns do not have access to the states machines. And most cities and towns dont have their own. Voters with disabilities must either vote with the help of an aide or family member or vote with the assistance of a moderator or poll worker.

Only two New Hampshire municipalities, Concord and Exeter, have accessible voting machines of their own. Both acquired theirs only after facing legal challenges from voters with disabilities.

Manchester had a mayoral election this past fall, said Karen Rosenberg, the policy director at the New Hampshire Disability Rights Center. And for people who couldnt fill in the circles, if they wanted to vote, theyd have to share with someone who it is that they were voting for.

That is very uncomfortable for someone to have to do, she continued. And basically, its discriminatory because people who dont experience a print disability and are not blind or visually impaired dont have to share their private voting information with anybody. They just go and vote.

This year, a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers is seeking to end the problem and force cities and towns to acquire the machines  one way or another.

House Bill 1264 would require towns and cities to provide accessible voting systems in local elections that meet the Help America Vote Act of 2002 as well as the Americans With Disabilities Act. Those machines would need to have the capacity to accept the choices of the voter and print out a paper ballot filled in with those choices for the voter to then cast, the bill states.

The bill would effectively enable access to voting for individuals with disabilities during elections by giving them the same degree of privacy that is accorded to nondisabled voters, a summary from the Secretary of States Office reads.

Disability rights advocates have long called for either cities and towns to acquire the machines or for the Secretary of States Office to share the ones it already has. That office has said that providing the machines for local elections is impractical because the tablets in each machine would need to be individually programmed according to each towns warrant and that the office does not have the time or resources to do it.

Sponsored by Rep. Mark Paige, an Exeter Democrat, the bill creates a mandate for towns but does not explicitly state how they might meet that mandate or acquire the machines. But advocates say they envision two phases.

First, the bill creates a pilot program where the Secretary of States Office is required to provide the machines to the towns for any elections between Jan. 1 and June 30 of 2025. Paige and other supporters say that would likely entail the Secretary of States Office sharing the machines it already has and allowing them to be programmed for local elections.

Second, Paige and other lawmakers say they will work to set aside money in the state budget next year to pay for cities and towns to acquire the machines themselves. Local officials would then use a vendor to program the machines  without the involvement of the Secretary of States Office.

The bill received a unanimous recommendation from the House Election Law Committee and passed the full House on a voice vote last week; it heads next to the Senate.

For municipalities, the threat of litigation is very real. In 2018, the U.S. Department of Justice began investigating a Concord residents complaint that the city had failed to provide accessible voting machines during its municipal elections. The voter claimed the city was violating Title II of the ADA, and the federal department, following a program known as ADA Voting Initiative, pursued the claim. The city came to a settlement agreement in February 2019 in which the city agreed to acquire the accessible voting machines, avoiding the potential for costly litigation.

A similar situation played out in Exeter, where Jean Shiner, a local resident, raised concerns about the lack of machines in 2022, according to the Disability Rights Center. Facing the possibility of litigation, the town moved to buy machines of its own; they debuted in March 2023.

But in most cities and towns, voters with disabilities are not given the same accommodations, advocates say.

Its honestly quite baffling to me why it hasnt been available, Harmon said.

Voting rights advocates have pressed the Secretary of States Office to change its policies for years. But Secretary of State Dave Scanlan has followed the policy first established by his predecessor, Bill Gardner, and maintains that the state does not have the resources to share the machines.

In an interview, Scanlan noted that the state is required by federal law to provide the machines for any election for federal office. That includes every November general election, every presidential primary, and every September state primary, which typically features party primaries for the states two congressional seats. The state also voluntarily shares the machines for any special elections when a state legislative seat becomes vacant.

Coordinating the programming of the machines for those elections is already difficult, Scanlan said. There is less than two months between the September primary and the November general election, during which each of the states polling locations must return the accessible voting tablets to the Secretary of States Office, which must then pass them to a vendor to reprogram them to reflect the general election ballots.

Then, the Secretary of States Office must test each machine to make sure the audio instructions for each candidate race are correct and that the machine will make the right selections when a voter pushes a button. There are 309 polling stations in the state, and with 400 seats in the House of Representatives, each ballot is slightly different and must be individually vetted, Scanlan said.

To Scanlan, attempting to fold in every annual town and city election to that calendar would not be feasible. The only long-term solution, he argues, is for towns and cities to acquire the machines themselves.

Its a very challenging issue because of the nature of the different types of local elections, he said. And  no matter what we do, its going to continue to be a work in progress.

Under HB 1264, municipalities will not need to do so immediately, Paige says. He is hoping the transition pilot period, where the Secretary of States Office will share its machines, will buy time next year. And he argued that the town meeting season of 2025 would be an ideal time to try that approach because there will not be a presidential primary, a state primary, or a general election to complicate plans.

Once the state gets to budget negotiations next year, Paige estimates that the price tag to acquire machines for every city and town will not exceed $250,000. Under the likely final agreement, municipalities would be responsible for paying for a vendor to program those machines for local elections. The Secretary of States Office would continue to provide its separate machines in all other elections.

The hope is that this is really small potatoes in a whole large budget for a fundamental right of voting, said Paige. So the hope is this wont be a heavy lift.

To Harmon, any plan to install the machines for local elections is overdue. For years, he has voted in state and federal elections with the use of headphones and tablets. And for years, he says, he has asked his town to also provide them in March.

Ive gotten all sorts of different answers over the years, but they all boil down to basically: Its not something we can do, he said.

This story was originally published by the New Hampshire Bulletin.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: NH towns lag on accessible voting machines. This bill could help.
North Korea state television broadcasts will soon be available online and on smartphones

Soap opera fans tired of Netflix can now tune in to the best dramas from the hermit kingdom of North Korea.

For as little as 16 a month, subscribers can now binge watch the dictatorships unique brand of earnest singing, marching soldiers and weeping newscasters.

Shiwani TV will broadcast state-run Korean Central TV and its radio station anywhere in the world from the second half of the year.

Among the content available are soaps about soldiers weeding out disloyal class enemies and sitcoms from gleaming Pyongyang apartments.

And there are also plans for an app for users to have all the latest news and gossip about Kim Jong-un, the supreme leader, beamed directly to their smartphones.

The spread of North Korean propaganda is in stark contrast to the dire state of the countrys economy.

Some Covid-era restrictions remain in place and borders are closed, prompting Britain to send inspection teams in recent weeks to its embassy shuttered since the pandemic

Meanwhile, North Korea has been ramping up weapons tests and threatening war with the South, while moving closer to Russias orbit.

Korean Central TV, North Koreas only legally accessible channel, shows a steady stream of missile launches, military parades and bad news about everywhere which isnt North Korea.

The new venture is the brainchild of the Chollima Front, which describes itself as an independent initiative of friendship between Poland and North Korea.

Chollima Fronts website says it aims to understand North Korea and its culture and to make verified information about the country available in the public space.

The service will be made available worldwide, including in the United States and South Korea, where it could breach national security laws and be illegal to access.

The channel said it will not pay fees to North Korea or have any contractual arrangement with the secretive Communist state. The North Korean embassy in Warsaw is reported to be supportive of the plan.

The channel operates within the laws of Poland, Canada and Germany, and also respects certain relevant North Korean laws, a spokesman told The Telegraph.

He said there were no subscribers yet because the service had not yet been launched.

But I can gladly say that it is untrue to suggest that no one is interested, he added.

Currently we have around 50 people that have requested to be informed when registration will be opened. These people are from all over the world, mainly Poland, the USA, Japan, the UK and South Korea.

Viewers looking to swap Celebrity Big Brother for a taste of the real thing can look forward to the emotional commentary provided by Ri Chun Hee, a veteran newsreader, at moments of historical significance.

Theres Our Neighbours, a sitcom centred around a modern and shiny apartment building in Pyongyang with the heartfelt message that those loyal to the regime will be rewarded with fashionable clothes and household appliances.

Young Researchers follows a group of schoolchildren who use laptop computers and other advanced technology, including drones, to solve problems in the reclusive rogue state.

Sport fans will be able to sample censored footage of world-famous events like Wimbledon, many months after they have been held.

North Korean soap operas tell stirring stories of heroic soldiers and workers devoting themselves to the party and rooting out class enemies and now even include adverts.

Dramas describe a protagonists gradual realisation of his duties towards the state or discover they are orphans, raised by the party.

In these tearjerkers, a characters mother has bravely looked after him at great sacrifice, even foregoing the chance to get married, in adherence to the North Korean theory of the Socialist Grand Family.

When The Telegraph tuned in to the state broadcaster, there was a lot of singing and soldiers staring meaningfully into the distance.

There was also footage of fields, hopeful children and skyscrapers and trains, despite reports that North Korea is once again facing food shortages.

The new service could fill the gap left after two state-run North Korean websites were shut down in January.

As for the Chollima Front, it is reported to only have about 12 members, mostly Poles, but also Germans and Canadians.

Chollima Front is a very small organisation whose members are a few young Polish people with communist political views, a Polish North Korea and East Asia studies scholar, who requested anonymity, told Radio Free Asia.

No one in Poland is interested in North Korean culture, especially in comparison to South Korean culture, he said.

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.
President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama at the White House before speaking about the Affordable Care Act in Washington, on April 5, 2022. (Kenny Holston/The New York Times)

WASHINGTON  As the election approaches, President Joe Biden is making regular calls to former President Barack Obama to catch up on the race or to talk about family. But Obama is making calls of his own to Jeffrey Zients, the White House chief of staff, and to top aides at the Biden campaign to strategize and relay advice.

This level of engagement illustrates Obamas support for Biden, but also what one of his senior aides characterized as Obamas grave concern that Biden could lose to former President Donald Trump. The aide, who was not authorized to speak publicly, said that Obama has always been worried about a Biden loss. And so, the aide added, he is prepared to eke it out alongside his former vice president in an election that could come down to slim margins in a handful of states.

Perhaps for the first time, the two are on the same page about Bidens future. In a sign of things to come, they are to appear together, with former President Bill Clinton, at a major fundraiser for the Biden campaign at Radio City Music Hall in New York on Thursday.

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It was not always this way.

In 2015, as Biden was grieving the loss of his eldest son, Beau, and contemplating running for the presidency, it was Obama who gently suggested that it was not his time. In a memoir, Promise Me, Dad, Biden wrote that Obama told him that if he could appoint anyone to be president for the next eight years, it would have been Biden. The vice president wrote that the mere possibility of a presidential campaign, which Beau wanted, gave us purpose and hope  a way to defy the fates.

But after discussing the stakes with Obama, he took himself out of contention and stepped aside for Hillary Clinton, seen by the Obama White House as the far stronger candidate. The decision bred distrust and lasting resentment among some of Bidens aides. Several of them work in the White House today, and they believe that Obama and his advisers sidelined Biden, whom they think could have changed the course of history and beaten Trump in 2016.

In 2019, when Biden entered the race against then-President Trump, Obama withheld his endorsement until after the Democratic primary, although he privately worked to clear a path for Biden. He also gave his blessing for the Biden campaign to use their interactions in the Obama White House in campaign materials, including footage of when Obama surprised his vice president with the Presidential Medal of Freedom shortly before leaving office.

In the 16 years since their first campaign together, the relationship has been defined by its odd-couple characteristics: The Harvard-trained professor and the guy from Scranton. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee chair who went on to serve a former junior member. The cool head and the Irish temper.

It took Obama time to warm to Biden, who was brought on as the Washington elder to help the exciting but inexperienced young president-to-be. Biden struggled with being second-in-command from the moment he joined the ticket.

The Obama brain trust, Biden and his allies felt, had no interest in taking strategic advice or additional requests from Biden, who had lost two prior presidential primary campaigns. On occasion, members of the Biden team  including Biden himself  groused about his second-class treatment by the Obama team, an elite and Ivy-educated machine.

One former campaign official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, recalled a moment of drawing the former vice presidents ire. After being asked to sign off on a statement on immigration policy, Biden snapped: You mean the one Ive had for 25 years? Or this guys?

Over time the two jelled, with Biden leveraging his relationships on Capitol Hill to help steer a massive stimulus package through Congress in the Great Recession and to push the Affordable Care Act over the finish line. He famously congratulated Obama as the president signed the health bill into law, whispering Mr. President, this is a big deal with an inserted adjective not suited for national television.

The two were not aligned on everything. Biden was vehemently against Obamas decision to send more American troops to Afghanistan in 2009, a disagreement that would become a focal point for Robert Hur, the special counsel who investigated the presidents handling of classified documents. A classified and handwritten document memo that Biden sent to Obama on Afghanistan had been found at Bidens residence in Delaware by investigators.

In a lengthy interview in October with Hur, Biden hinted at their opposites-attract dynamic during a portion of the discussion that was meant to probe how often and in what manner he spoke with other senators about sensitive matters, including the Iran nuclear deal.

The bad joke is, with President Obama, I would always say to him: Mr. President, all politics is personal, Biden said at one point, explaining to Hur why he regularly invited senators to breakfast at the vice presidents residence.

Biden never explained the joke, but his recollection of the advice he gave to Obama highlighted a major difference between the two men, at least as far as Biden was concerned  he had nurtured relationships on Capitol Hill, something Obama had comparatively little interest in doing.

Aides to Biden say their relationship morphed from friendly to almost familial after Beau Biden died. When Obama delivered a eulogy for Beau in June 2015, the president looked down from the dais and told Biden that he and his family were honorary members of the Biden clan.

And the Biden family rule applies: Were always here for you, we always will be  my word as a Biden, Obama said, a moment that has been described by people close to Biden as a major turning point for the president, who was stunned by Obamas publicly affectionate remarks.

But during his interview with Hur, Biden explained another crucial disconnect: Obamas differing view on Bidens political future. Obama and his advisers had chosen Biden for his policy experience, but also because he had what the Obama team thought were limited career prospects beyond the vice presidency.

Biden recalled to Hur that, while he was pondering a presidential run in 2015, there were still a lot of people at the time when I got out of the Senate that were encouraging me to run in this period, except the president, he said, a reference to Obama. Im not  and not a mean thing to say. He just thought that she had a better shot of winning the presidency than I did, a reference to Clinton.

People who were in the White House at the time argue that the timeline was not so simple.

This notion that there was a red carpet available that, you know, Barack Obama blocked is just not based in reality, David Plouffe, a former senior adviser to Obama, said in an interview. Plouffe said that Clinton and Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont were already strong contenders for the Democratic nomination when Biden was considering a run.

Joe Biden would have run for president for the third time, for the nomination, would not have succeeded, and would have never been president, Plouffe said.

Still, White House officials and those working for Obama say that any lingering distrust at the staff level has dissipated, given what they see as the urgent need for Biden to beat Trump in November. Privately, Democrats close to Obama said that their concerns over Bidens prospects have been assuaged somewhat by the presidents confrontational performance during his State of the Union address.

An email sent by Obamas alumni group and obtained by The New York Times said as much. We hope you are as fired up as we are after the State of the Union! the group wrote in an email to supporters. President Biden is ready.

c.2024 The New York Times Company
This years elections will result in some of the biggest changes in Missouri Senate membership since term limits took effect 20 years ago, with at least nine members exiting the chamber and primary challenges that could send four incumbents home.

The Senate, dominated by a Republican supermajority, is beset by GOP factional warfare that has disrupted both this years session and those of the past three years. A group that called itself the conservative caucus in 2021 and 2022 before rebranding as the Freedom Caucus, has repeatedly disrupted normal functioning of the Senate.

The Missouri Senate chamber on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024.

Filibusters held up approval of a new congressional district map and forced a special session on provider taxes vital to funding Medicaid. This year, the infighting became so bad several Freedom Caucus members lost committee chairmanships.

For the challengers to GOP incumbents, ending those fights is a theme they think will play with voters.

When we divide into sub-caucuses, it hurts the conservative agenda, said state Rep. Mike Haffner of Pleasant Hill, who is challenging state Sen. Rick Brattin in the 21st District. I belong to the conservative party, the Republican Party, and thats the only group that I will affiliate with.

With most seats considered safe for one party or the other and only half of the chamber on the ballot, there is little chance Republicans will lose their majority. Three open seats are considered toss-ups, however, and could end the GOP supermajority if Democrats have a good year.

The turnover this year is comparable to what happened when term limits took effect in 2002. Senators can serve two four-year terms, and that year 12 were ineligible to run for re-election. Ten more were barred from new terms in 2004.

Of the nine members leaving the chamber this year, six must exit due to term limits. Among the others, Sen. Elaine Gannon of De Soto is retiring, Sen. Holly Thompson Rehder of Scott City is running for lieutenant governor and state Sen. Karla Eslinger of Wasola will take over as the states Commissioner of Education on June 1.

Across the Capitol in the Missouri House, where all the seats are on the ballot, there is a big increase in contested seats compared to two years ago. In the 2022 election, only 69 of 163 districts had both Republican and Democratic candidates. This year, the major parties will both field candidates in 114 districts.

To break the Republican supermajority in the Missouri House, Democrats would have to pick up three seats, which they did in the 2022 elections.

Legislative candidates accounted for 410 of the more than 580 candidates who visited the Secretary of States office  some more than once  to put their names on the ballot for posts ranging from circuit judge to governor.

GOP majorities are safe

Sen. Barbara Washington, D-Kansas City, listens during Senate debate of an initiative petition bill Monday, Feb. 12, 2024.

The reason Republicans seem certain to retain their Senate majority after this years election is the seats that arent on the ballot. The partisan split in this years state Senate elections is seven Democratic seats and 10 Republican. Of the seats not on the ballot, three are held by Democrats and 14 by Republicans.

Every one of the 17 Senate seats on this years ballot has a contest. Two, the 13th District in St. Louis County and the 27th District of southeast Missouri, only have a primary.

Until Tuesday, it looked like Democrats would pick up a Republican-held seat with the close of filing. Former state Rep. Stephen Webber of Columbia was unopposed in the 19th District, currently held by Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, until former state Rep. Chuck Basye filed.

The Senate seats expected to be competitive in November are open because of term limits. Two are currently held by Democrats, State Sen. Lauren Arthur of Kansas City in the 17th District and Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo of Independence in the 11th District.

The third is held by a Republican, state Sen. Andrew Koenig of Manchester in the 15th District. Koenig is a candidate for state treasurer.

The incumbent senators facing primaries include two of the chambers most conservative members, Brattin of Harrisonville and Mike Moon of Ash Grove, and two first-term Democrats, Barbara Washington of Kansas City and Angela Moseley of Florissant.

Mosley represents the 13th District and her primary against state Rep. Chantelle Nickson-Clark of Florissant will decide who is sworn in as senator in January.

The Democratic primary in Kansas Citys 9th District will pit Washington against Brandon Ellington, a former state representative and former Kansas City councilman. Hes not running because of any particular beef with Washington, he said, except he thinks he could do more.

I am not running against the Senator, Im running for the Senate seat, because we need a senator thats actually going to fight for the residents of the 9th district and have an understanding of suffering across the state, Ellington said.

Washington, interviewed outside her Capitol office, said shes brought millions of dollars home for projects important to her district and pointed to the revitalization of the historic Black business district of 18th and Vine.

He should look at my record, she said.

Republican Derron Black of Kansas City will face the winner in November.

Challenging the Freedom Caucus

Sen. Mike Moon, R-Ash Grove, speaks on the Senate floor on Feb. 27, 2023.

For Republican incumbents facing a primary, the campaign is opening with heavy criticism from opponents. Challengers said they want to cooperate with GOP leadership in the chamber, not spend days tying the chamber up.

Moon spends too much time obstructing the Senate and too little time working to get his bills passed, said Susan Haralson of Ozark, founder of Premier Home Health Care who has filed to run against Moon in the GOP primary.

Moon represents the 29th District in southwest Missouri.

Moon was a member of the conservative caucus, a group formed in 2021 that also engaged in bitter factional fights, though he is not a formal member of the current iteration of the group called the Freedom Caucus. He often challenges Senate custom, including a 2022 episode when he was punished for wearing overalls on the Senate floor and refusing to apologize for breaking decorum.

He is truly a nice guy, Haralson said of Moon. I just think that hes a little off base.

Haralson said she wants the Senate to function as a collegial body, not one where factions disrupt debate.

I dont think theres much that has been accomplished, she said. And some of it is because of him.

In 12 years as a lawmaker, including eight years in the House, Moon has passed one bill, to ban gender-affirming medical treatments for minors. It passed last year.

That is a significant bill passed that will live on way longer than Ill be alive, and its for the protection of children, Moon said. I think thats a substantial benchmark.

The 29th district was redrawn after the census to include Christian County, where he has never been on the ballot, and to remove Stone and Taney counties, which he carried in his 2020 primary. Haralson lives in Christian County.

Ron Monnig of Eagle Rock filed Tuesday as the Democratic candidate in the 29th District to face the winner of the Moon-Haralson primary in November.

Brattins primary opponents in the 21st District in western Missouri are both currently members of the House: Haffner and Dan Houx of Warrensburg.

Brattin won the primary for his seat in 2020 with 49.6% of the vote and placed second in the 4th Congressional District primary in 2022. He is a member of the Freedom Caucus and lost a committee chairmanship and two vice-chairmanships when Senate leaders lost patience with the caucus obstruction tactics.

Its sad to me that there are bills that have been in the process over the past three years that died in the last couple of weeks in the Senate that should have passed, said Houx.

Haffner blames obstruction for the low number of bills passed in recent years.

Some of the actions that are being taken on the floor are dysfunctional, and it is hurting the opportunity to get the conservative agenda to the governor, Haffner said.

Brattin had equally sharp words for his opponents.

The 31st District was redrawn after the census, adding Johnson County to Cass and Bates counties and removing Barton, Henry and Vernon counties. That moved Houx out of his previous district, the 21st, represented by Sen. Denny Hoskins of Warrensburg.

He feels like this is his anointing and it was his rightful office up until redistricting, Brattin said.

Haffners campaign is an example of ingratitude, Brattin said.

He wouldnt even be in the position hes in if it wasnt for my wife and I to come in and to help him even get elected, Brattin said. Now hes running against us and feels this is his rightful place.

Raymond James of Leeton is the Democratic candidate who will face the winner in November.

This story was first published at www.missouriindependent.com.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri Senate will see most turnover in two decades in 2024 election
Jason Marley, 53, at his sentencing hearing in Boone County Circuit Court on Wednesday.

The owner of a Northern Kentucky car dealership, who prosecutors say harnessed women's drug addictions to force them into sex and made his employees forge title documents, will spend time behind bars.

Jason Marley, 53, was sentenced Wednesday afternoon in Boone County Circuit Court to 18 years in prison.

Marley pleaded guilty in January to counts including human trafficking, unlawful transaction with a minor, forgery and possession of a controlled substance. Court records show he was indicted in October 2022.

The sentence handed down by Judge James Schrand matches a recommendation by prosecutors reached as part of his plea agreement.

Marley was also ordered to pay a $20,000 fee to the Human Trafficking Victims Fund and enter into a 10-year protective order with his two victims.

In exchange for his plea, prosecutors agreed to dismiss a human trafficking count and not pursue additional charges against Marley or his wife.

A 16-year-old girl went to work for Marley doing vehicle paperwork at his Burlington car lot and was paid in cash and drugs, prosecutors said. After the girl turned 18 years old, however, Marley used her struggle with addiction to coerce her into having sex with him at the business and local hotels.

The second victim met Marley after responding to a Facebook Marketplace post, prosecutors said in court filings. He asked the woman if she liked to party and gave her drugs, to which she later became addicted.

More: Prosecutors take death off table for man accused of killing ex-girlfriend in front of kids

Marley then forced the woman into sex by threatening to expose her drug use to her stepfather, who worked in law enforcement.

Witnesses told detectives that cameras in the office were aimed at a couch where Marley would have sex, with one employee saying that Marley asked her to recruit small, thin girls and told her she was too big for his taste sexually, prosecutors wrote.

Authorities found methamphetamine and forged title documents when they searched his business, prosecutors said.

Employees also told investigators that Marley instructed them to forge the signature of a previous notary, whose stamp was no longer valid, onto title applications.

Customers constantly complained about bad titles and several cars couldnt be titled due to bad VINs, one of the victims said, according to prosecutors. She even saw Marley spray carburetor cleaner on tags to wipe off the date so a new one could be written on the paper tag.

Marley did not make a statement during his sentencing on Wednesday. His attorney, Kate Homan, declined to comment.

He understands that his actions enabled others to further their addictions, Homan wrote in a court filing, and for that, he takes full accountability.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: NKY car lot owner gets prison for using drugs to coerce women into sex
A Shelby woman will spend at least 20 years in prison for killing a man in 2021.

Bryana Salymar Martines, 25, of Shelby, was sentenced this week to 20 to 25 years in prison. The sentence was handed down in Catawba County Superior Court after she pleaded guilty to second-degree murder on Monday,

Martines took responsibility for taking the life of 72-year-old Robert Bob Bruce Godfrey on Dec. 1, 2021.

Bob Godfrey

Officers from Hickory Police Department responded to a Hickory apartment complex on Dec. 4, 2021, after Godfreys son found him deceased at his residence. He had been emailing and texting his father for a couple days with no response and went to check on him. The apartment was in disarray, and Godfreys vehicle was missing, according to a press release from the Burke County District Attorneys Office.

Martines, along with Abraham Adon Jr., were stopped in the vehicle in Camden, Georgia, and she was identified as a person of interest in the death of Godfrey.

On Dec. 7, 2021, investigators from Hickory interviewed Adon, who had been with Martines, in Lancaster County, South Carolina, where he was incarcerated. He and Martines had been in a relationship for two months, and he told investigators that Martines confided in him that she had murdered Godfrey by striking him on the head several times with a glass object, according to the press release.

Martines was taken into custody on Dec. 8, 2021, and interviewed. She indicated that she and Godfrey were in a relationship. When that relationship ended, she began seeing Adon.

She told investigators that during a final encounter with Godfrey, she killed him by striking him over the head with a bottle, the press release says.

The autopsy report from Wake Forest Baptist Regional Medical Center revealed that Godfrey died from blunt force trauma to the head.

Adon was charged with fleeing arrest and accessory after the fact.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Shelby woman pleads guilty to killing man in Hickory
David Friedman, the former ambassador to Israel, and Donald Trump last month. Trump said that he would meet with Friedman to discuss his plan for Israeli annexation of the West Bank. (Taylor Baucom/The New York Times)

Even as Palestinian-rights organizers focus their ire on President Joe Biden, the advisers who shaped Donald Trumps Middle East policies when he was president have amplified calls for the expulsion of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and the annexation of the West Bank by Israel.

Those policy prescriptions, voiced by Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner and his former ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, suggest a right-wing approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict exceeding even the Trump administrations lopsidedly pro-Israeli proposals for a two-state solution. Trump was contradictory on the policies he would pursue in an interview with a conservative Israeli publication. But he did say he would be meeting with Friedman to discuss the former ambassadors plan for Israeli annexation of the West Bank.

Yet rather than raising alarm bells, some Palestinian organizers still maintain that Biden is the true threat, and that rhetoric from his Republican challenger cannot compare to policies that they say have already led to the killing of tens of thousands of Palestinians.

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The fear of a second Trump term no longer resonates, said Abed Ayoub, the national executive director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, who has been organizing Arab American and progressive voters in Michigan.

Ayoub suggested that if Trump was reelected because activists shun Biden, the Democratic Party could be forced to reconsider its position on Israel.

The ideas given voice by Friedman and Kushner have raised eyebrows. At a forum at Harvard University that first drew widespread attention last week, Kushner, a developer who has actively pursued real estate deals abroad off contacts made when he was setting policy in the White House, said that Gazas waterfront property could be very valuable. He also suggested Palestinians be moved out of the beleaguered territory.

Its a little bit of an unfortunate situation there, but from Israels perspective I would do my best to move the people out and then clean it up, Kushner said. Palestinian civilians, he said, could be moved into the Negev desert in Israels arid south.

Friedman appeared to echo Kushners call for expulsions over the weekend when he criticized Vice President Kamala Harris on social media for saying that as many as 1.5 million Palestinians who have sought shelter in the southern Gaza city of Rafah had nowhere else to go if Israel attacked.

Friedman suggested that Gazas Palestinians could always emigrate.

She studied the maps and concluded that the people in Rafah have no place to go, Friedman wrote. It must have been an awfully small map  obviously left out Egypt and other Arab countries.

Later, responding to denunciations by Palestinian rights activists, Friedman wrote that he was advocating getting civilians temporarily out of harms way during a war.

It looks like you would prefer that they suffer so you can maintain your anti-Israel narrative, Friedman said on social media.

Meanwhile, Friedman has been pushing a Future of Judea & Samaria plan, using the biblical terminology for the West Bank to assert what he says is Israels right to annex the territory, which under long-standing U.S. policy is supposed to constitute the lions share of an eventual sovereign Palestinian state. The West Bank has been under military occupation since 1967.

Presenting his plan last month at the conference of the National Religious Broadcasters in Nashville, Tennessee, Friedman called Bidens fresh push for a two-state solution  Israel and a Palestinian state existing side by side  a dead letter.

In Trumps interview with the right-wing publication, Israel Hayom, he did not embrace either prescription, but he did say he would be meeting with Friedman to discuss his annexation plan.

Both the Biden campaign and the White House responded cautiously on the sensitive issues of Israels prosecution of the war in Gaza and what might follow. White House aides reiterated that the president had rejected any forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, the reconstitution of Israeli settlements in the territory and the shrinkage of Gazas borders. And they said he would continue to press for Palestinian sovereignty in the West Bank and Gaza.

President Biden shares the goal for an end to the violence and a just, lasting peace in the Middle East, Lauren Hitt, a campaign spokesperson, said in a statement.

Karoline Leavitt, a Trump campaign spokesperson, indicated that the presumptive Republican presidential nominee did not intend to signal any change in policy with his remarks to Israel Hayom, in which he exhorted Israel to finish up your war and then pursue some form of peace.

He fully supports Israels right to defend itself and eliminate the terrorist threat, Leavitt said in a statement. He also believes that Israels interests will be best served by completing this mission as quickly, decisively and humanely as possible so that the region can return to peace and stability.

The overall tone of the Trump interview with Israel Hayom was muddled and contradictory. Beyond his call for Israel to get the job done in Gaza, he also appeared to criticize Israels propaganda efforts. Every night, I would watch buildings pour down on people, he said, suggesting such images should not have been disseminated.

Such contradictions were not lost on Palestinian activists. He said Israel should be careful because its losing diplomatic support, not because its killing Palestinians, said Tarek Khalil, a Chicago board member of American Muslims for Palestine.

But activists involved in the all-out push to reverse the United States military support for the Israeli government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that they would not be pushed into supporting Bidens reelection because of Trumps rhetoric.

Its noteworthy that even Trump, Netanyahus strongest ally in the world, believes Israel is losing global and American public opinion, said Waleed Shahid, who has been coordinating communications for Palestinian-rights activists. On the electoral front, Biden faces more scrutiny from voters on Gaza because he was the president who supplied weapons to a horrific war, even if Trump would have done the same.

Khalil was more direct about his ambivalence toward Trump: Just because his rhetoric is more extreme doesnt mean hed be worse, he said. What Trump has said is ugly, but Biden is the one enabling a genocide.

Like Ayoub, Khalil said that Bidens oft-repeated framing  that the election in November will be a choice between two candidates, not a referendum  would not carry the day with Arab American voters and their allies among young progressives.

You cannot use your opposition to diminish what youve done, Khalil said.

For Biden, battling for votes especially in the critical battleground of Michigan, with its large Arab American population, such sentiments are unmitigatedly bad news. His decision on Monday to allow the United Nations Security Council to approve a binding call for a cease-fire in Gaza appears to have done nothing to sway his opposition.

Ayoub called the Biden administrations abstention on the vote clearly a change in policy.

But at the same time, he added, theyre still sending weapons, theyre still providing funding, theyre still doing a lot of things that contribute to the carnage.

White House officials on Tuesday ticked through the steps the administration had taken to get humanitarian aid into Gaza, including pressing the Israeli and Egyptian governments to open border crossings and forcing the resumption of fuel shipments into the territory.

But none of that has proved persuasive as Israel pursues its military campaign to destroy Hamas, the perpetrator of the killing of around 1,200 Israelis on Oct. 7.

Trump and Biden are not the only two choices, Ayoub said, and it doesnt fall upon Palestinian-rights activists and peace activists to take one of those two choices. If the byproduct of our choice is another Trump administration, then Democrats need to look at what they did for the next election.

c.2024 The New York Times Company
As Trump blasts NATO allies for not paying for defense, these front-line countries are readying for war

Trump continued his tirade against NATO members he says aren't paying their "fair share."

As Russia's war in Ukraine threatens NATO, the Baltic states say they're investing in defense more than ever.

The efforts include increased spending, buying new weapons, and reinstating conscription.

Former President Donald Trump has long expressed his vitriolic opinions on NATO, often suggesting some European members don't pay their "fair share" and take advantage of the US.

But as Russia's bloody war in Ukraine enters its third year, and the threat to NATO countries, particularly those on Russia's borders, grows, the Baltic states are investing in their defense more than ever.

At a Hudson Institute event in Washington DC on Monday morning, days before the 20th anniversary of their countries' ascensions into NATO, the foreign ministers of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia explained the gravity of the current war in Ukraine and what it could mean for future Russian aggression, particularly towards NATO members.

"We have no other options" besides supporting Ukraine and ensuring it wins, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said, highlighting that NATO and the West "would pay" heavily should Russia win and expand its ambitions to conquering other neighbors.

Experts and officials have long suggested that should Russia be successful in beating Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin would feel emboldened to continue his conquest, which could even involve invading NATO members, triggering full-scale war between the nuclear-armed adversaries.

During the talk, the three ministers also spoke to the US' shaky involvement in supporting Ukraine, with the latest aid package stuck in congressional limbo. Many countries, including China, are watching what will happen at the end of the war, Tsahkna said, "So, I think that [the] US must wake up as well, showing the leadership more because Europe is doing more right now."

Ships from NATO navies sail in formation in the Baltic Sea during the exercise Baltic Operations 2023 on June 4, 2023. US Marine Corps/Staff Sgt. Shawn Coover

The talk came just on the heels of Trump's most recent attack on NATO members who he deems aren't paying their 'fair share." Last week, the former president said that he would keep the US in NATO should European countries pay and "play fair." He said the US "was paying 90% of NATO," and that without the US, NATO "literally doesn't even exist."

"It's more important for [European countries] than it is to us. We have an ocean in between [us and] some problems," Trump said. "They took advantage of us on trade."

The NATO alliance benefits from the US's vast nuclear arsenal and roughly 100,000 US troops in Europe. The alliance has set guidelines for each ally to spend at least 2% of its GDP on its military; 18 of the 32 member states are expected to meet this goal this year.

This is far from the first Trump has complained about US involvement in NATO or made erroneous claims about the alliance. Last month, Trump's comments at a campaign rally that he would "encourage" Russia 'to do whatever the hell they want" to NATO allies who aren't hitting the spending target received widespread criticism.

During his first term as president, Trump often bashed NATO, raising anxieties that the US would either pull out of the alliance or not respond to an Article 5 situation, when an ally is attacked and the rest of the alliance comes to its defense. Now, if Trump were to be reelected this year, he'd have a much harder time with that, as Congress passed a bill in December that prevents a president from withdrawing from NATO without Congressional approval.

A french soldier takes part in a major drill as part of NATO's "enhanced forward presence" (EFP) deployment in Poland and the Baltic nations of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, at the Tapa estonian army camp near Rakvere on February 5, 2022. ALAIN JOCARD/AFP via Getty Images

Trump's comments have often missed the point on the progress made across NATO to both deter Russia and boost defenses. Many European states, the Baltics included, have long sent military aid to Ukraine and recently upped their assistance packages. Just last week, France and Germany agreed to co-produce military equipment for Ukraine on Ukrainian soil, a major step to getting troops spare parts, munitions, and complete weapons systems.

Germany also agreed to send a hefty aid package, but Chancellor Olaf Scholz is still refusing to send long-range Taurus missiles after months of debate.

And earlier this month, French President Emmanuel Macron refused to rule out sending troops to Ukraine. While his stance isn't held by many other European leaders, it does indicate a growing view that the war in Ukraine is becoming, as Macron said, "existential" to Europe.

The Baltics understand that sentiment well; the threat of Putin's aggression is right on their doorstep. While talking about how NATO's military spending compared to Russia's, Latvia Foreign Minister Krisjanis Karins emphasized how the Baltic countries are preparing to deter and counter Russia.

"So in Latvia, and in my neighbors, we go full out," Karins said. "We invest in our own defense, budgeted 2.4% this year, it looks like we're going to hit 3% this year, and we will be going beyond that in the future as well."

An Eurofighter Typhoon of the german airforce pictured on September 10, 2014, over Estonia. Thomas Wiegold/Photothek via Getty Images

Many NATO members  18, according to projections from earlier this year  are spending at least 2% of their gross domestic product on defense, while the remaining members are being urged to swiftly meet that target. That's seven more than 2023. In 2014, only three NATO allies met that threshold.

Last year's numbers indicated Poland spent 3.90% of its GDP, just above the US at 3.49% and Greece at 3.01%. Many nations bordering Russia or Belarus also increased their spending. Estonia spent 2.73%, Lithuania 2.54%, and Latvia 2.07%. Finland, Romania, and Hungary also spent over the 2% threshold.

Karins also said there were other major steps being taken to prepare defenses for Russia. "We've reinstated conscription, so we're building up our armed forces," an unpopular move that Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics is pushing other NATO members to do, too. "Nobody wants to fight," Rinkevics told The Financial Times. "But the problem is nobody wants to be invaded as well. And nobody wants to see Ukraine happening here."

Karins also said Latvia and the other Baltic states were purchasing more weapons systems and increasing NATO's military presence in the Baltics. Just last month, Germany announced plans to deploy two combat battalions, or around 5,000 troops, to Lithuania, the first such move for the country since World War II. The goal is to deter Russian aggression against the country, as well as reinforce Lithuania's defenses.

And this past weekend, the US approved a total $228 aid package to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, which will go towards fast-tracking military infrastructure and development projects involving air and maritime defenses, as well as land forces.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The head of Ukraines national spy agency has revealed details of a secretive assassination campaign apparently targeting Ukrainians collaborating with Russia.

In an hour-long televised interview Lieutenant General Vasyl Malyuk, chief of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), spoke about a number of high-profile killings in Russian-occupied territory and Russia itself, including that of a pro-Kremlin military blogger in Vladimir Putins hometown of St Petersburg.

Lt Gen Malyuk claimed very many people responsible for war crimes and attacks against Ukrainian citizens had been targeted. But he said: Officially, we will not admit to this... But at the same time, I can offer some details.

The most high-profile killing he spoke about was that of Ukraine-born Vladlen Tatarsky, a Kremlin propagandist and media personality who had more than half a million followers on the Telegram messenger service.

Tatarsky joined with pro-Kremlin forces invading eastern Ukraine in 2014 after being jailed for robbing a bank.

He was known to have ties with the Wagner mercenary group, a Russian militia that captured the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut last May before staging a mutinous march on Moscow the following month. Lt Gen Malyuk said Tatarsky was targeted for his military service fighting against Ukraine and his calls for the elimination of Ukrainians.

He was killed when he was handed an explosive-rigged statuette in a St Petersburg cafe in April last year. The spy boss claimed operatives had duped an intermediary, a young woman, into handing the statue to Tatarsky. A woman, Darya Trepova, has since been jailed for 27 years over the killing. Trepova told her trial she was following instructions from a man in Ukraine. She told the court she had been gullible and naive to believe him.

Pallbearers carry a picture and the coffin with the body of Tatarsky, at the Troekurovsky cemetery in Moscow last year (EPA)

The SBU would not take credit for the execution but Tatarsky deserved it, Lt Gen Malyuk said, accusing the pro-war blogger of repeated abuse of Ukrainian prisoners of war for Kremlin propaganda.

Another case Lt Gen Malyuk spoke about was Ukrainian parliament member Ilya Kyva, who spoke against Ukrainian independence and was considered a traitor by Kyiv before he was shot dead near Moscow in December. Sources within the SBU had previously told a number of outlets that the service was responsible for the killing.

At the time, Ukraines military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov hinted at the countrys involvement in the killing: We can confirm that Kyva is done. Such a fate will befall other traitors of Ukraine, as well as the henchmen of the Putin regime.

The interview with Lt Gen Malyuk comes as Ukraines air force chief said that Russia had launched 13 Shahed drones at Ukraine overnight, 10 of which were downed in the Kharkiv, Sumy and Kyiv regions.

Anti-aircraft missile units, mobile fire groups, electronic warfare equipment... were involved in repelling the air attack, air force chief Mykola Oleshchuk said.

It was unclear what happened to the other three drones but Kharkiv governor Oleh Syniehubov reported that a school and private home were damaged in Izyum, roughly 30 miles from the eastern frontline, after an enemy Shahed attack took place. One person was killed and another 16 were injured in the airstrikes, officials said.

Kharkiv city, the capital of the region, is one of the most dangerous civilian areas in Ukraine away from the frontline. Hundreds of thousands remain without electricity following a long-range missile and drone attack last week, while vital air raid sirens used to alert civilians of incoming attacks were destroyed over the weekend.

A building in Kharkiv on Wednesday damaged by a Russian drone strike (AFP)

A former Ukrainian officer in charge of anti-missile defences estimated it took just three to four minutes between Russia launching a missile at the city and the subsequent explosion in Kharkiv.

Russian air defence units on Wednesday downed 16 airborne targets around the city of Belgorod in southern Russia, with no injuries reported on the ground, regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said.

Meanwhile, Russias foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova became the latest Russia official to try and suggest that an attack on a Moscow concert hall that killed 143 could be traced to Ukraine. President Putin has previously sought to lay the blame for the attack at the feet of Kyiv and its Western backers without providing any evidence.

The attack has been claimed by Isis, with the US and France saying their intelligence services are clear that is the case. Britains foreign secretary, David Cameron, has also described claims that Ukraine  or the West  were involved in the Crocus City Hall attack as utter nonsense in a post on X.

Ms Zakharova said it was extremely hard to believe that Isis would have the capacity to launch the attack in Moscow  with the Kremlin seeking to justify its now two-year invasion of Ukraine that has been roundly condemned by the international community. The US warned earlier in March that an attack could be imminent.

The official death toll from the Moscow mass shooting stands at 143 dead and 182 wounded. The Investigative Committee, which deals with major crimes, said in a statement that 84 bodies had so far been identified, including the bodies of five children aged nine to 16. It said tests were being carried out to establish the identities of the remaining victims.

However, Russias Baza news service, which has good contacts in Russian security and law enforcement, has claimed there could be up to 95 more people who appeared in lists compiled by the emergency services based on appeals from people about missing relatives. These lists include people with whom relatives have not been able to get in touch since the terrorist attack, but who are not on the lists of wounded and dead, Baza claimed.
Golden Ticket

Earlier this week, a Russian Soyuz rocket docked with the International Space Station, carrying NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson, cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy  and Belarusian flight attendant Marina Vasilevskaya, who won the trip as part of a national science contest.

The three crew members launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Saturday, arriving at the space station around 50 hours later. The first launch attempt, on Thursday, had to be aborted mere seconds before takeoff.

The trip has officially made Vasilevskaya, a flight attendant for Belavia Airlines, the first Belarusian woman to fly into space.

It's also a sign that cooperation in space between the US and Russia  including some of its closest allies like Belarus  is still ongoing, despite significant political tensions.

"It's a big honor for me and a big responsibility to be in this unbelievable mission," Vasilevskaya said in a statement before launching, as translated by Space.com. "This is our national project. It's such a big honor. I'm so proud to represent our republic."

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Vasilevskaya was one of six finalists of a nationwide contest organized by the Belarus Academy of Sciences and the Belarus Space Agency. More than 3,000 female candidates applied.

"She's a flight attendant," Dyson, the NASA astronaut on board the flight, told CollectSPACE. "That's her day job and, as you know, flight attendants don't just serve drinks. They're primarily responsible for our personal safety on board the aircraft and so she's no stranger to emergency situations and what to do and how to stay calm during them."

Vasilevskaya will spend around 12 days on board the space station and will make her return on board a Soyuz spacecraft alongside current ISS crew member and NASA astronaut Loral O'Hara for a landing on April 6.

Her arrival goes to show that even those who haven't spent many years training to become astronauts can make it to space  if they're incredibly lucky or rich, that is.

"She's really stepped up to whatever role she's been assigned and what she lacks in experience as a cosmonaut she makes up for with a great attitude," Dyson told CollectSPACE.

More on the ISS: Russia Confirms Small But Growing Leak in Space Station
YORK, Maine  One of Yorks landmark hotels could see a major addition in the pipeline as its owners seek approval for doubling its size.

Giri Hotel Management is seeking to add 48 new rooms to the Union Bluff Hotel overlooking Short Sands Beach, bringing the total to 88. It also seeks to build a multi-level parking garage with 111 spaces in a beach town where parking is scarce in the summer.

The Union Bluffs restaurant space will also be expanded as part of the addition. The owners, technically listed as Giri York Union Property Inc., were scheduled to go to the town's Planning Board on March 28 for the start of their approval process.

The Union Bluff Hotel at 8 Beach Street was sold to Giri Hotel Management for $23 million on Dec. 15, 2021 in York Beach, Maine.

The Union Bluff is one of Yorks historic hotels, built in 1868. The hotels website states it was built by Moses French, who noticed an explosion of tourism in the area following the Civil War.

The hotel changed hands over the years between several different owners. The original building was destroyed in a fire in 1987, according to the sites history. It was rebuilt two years later by the father one of the most recent owners, Mary Jane Merritt.

Merritt and her husband Brett owned the hotel for more than three decades, then sold it in 2021 to Giri Hotel Management for $23 million. The Merritts were looking to retire from the hospitality industry.

Giri Hotel Management, based in Quincy, Massachusetts, had already owned properties across New England. They own properties in several other places in Maine, including Ogunquit, Kennebunk, Bar Harbor and Portland. The group also bought the Anchorage by the Sea hotel in Ogunquit last year.

Giri looking to double Union Bluffs units, add parking

The project proposed this week to the Planning Board would include a new 28,980 square feet building addition, according to a cover letter for its sketch plan application. It would involve demolishing a structure at 19 Freeman St. to make way for the proposed parking deck.

Giri Hotel Management is seeking to add 48 new rooms to the Union Bluff Hotel overlooking Short Sands Beach.

Currently, the hotel has a mixture of pavement and gravel parking. The projects cover letter states the addition will not result in additional stormwater runoff onto adjacent properties.

David Bridges, chairman of the Ellis Park board of directors and former York Beach fire chief, recalled that Brett Merritt considered building parking at the Union Bluff underground. He said parking at Short Sands Beach is highly coveted.

Theres never enough parking, Bridges said. Parking is very valuable.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: York Beach Union Bluff Hotel eyes major addition, parking garage
Four candidates seeking the Democratic nomination for the 5th Congressional district presented their platforms at a March 21 forum in Amherst County.

Candidates Gloria Witt, a Madison Heights resident; Paul Riley, Toby Johnson and Adam Maddeny attended the forum at JTs Grill.

Members of the Amherst County Democrats said they wanted to do an event in Madison Heights because the area holds most of the Democratic population around Amherst and they wanted to be more accessible.

Candidates welcomed and shook hands with everyone who walked in. Attendees sat at long tables together and talked to candidates and each other.

The event had a good turnout with most of the seats being taken up.

The forum started with each candidate having about two minutes to talk about their platform and background. This was interrupted by people yelling on the other side of the restaurant, who were not in support of the Democratic party.

After the speeches, they took questions from those in attendance.

The first question was on who would commit to womens rights.

Im going to do everything in my power to make sure we get back those rights, Witt said.

Another concern raised was about the conflict between Israel and Palestine.

We need to stop the genocide, stop everything involving it, Maddeny said.

Antisemitism is a problem we have to tread lightly on. We have to be careful not to set blame and put anymore hatred or negativity toward them, Johnson said.

They (Palestine) need our support. Whatever we can do to help, Witt said.

One of the last questions that came up from the audience was about what the candidates would do about mass shootings and gun regulations.

Register the guns like you do your automobiles, insure the guns like the automobiles, and require training like automobiles, Johnson said.

Johnson also said parents of school-aged shooters and sellers should be held accountable.

Maddeny said he thinks that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention should get involved so theres data on what is going wrong and how it can be fixed.

The forum ended with the candidates walking around again and speaking with everyone on their concerns while also collecting signatures.

The Democratic primary is June 18. The candidate who emerges will face off against the winner of the Republican primary between U.S. Rep. Bob Good and state Sen. John McGuire, of Goochland County.

The 5th District includes Lynchburg and the counties of Amherst and Nelson. The seat has been firmly in Republican hands since January 2011.
The Knights of Columbus at St. Marys Catholic Church in Lovingston will be hosting a Ukraine Benefit to raise funds for Ukraine and Poland.

The Knights of Columbus is a global all men organization associated with the catholic church that focuses on charity.

They created the Ukraine Solidarity Fund which has been an ongoing effort of the Knights of Columbus for three years, since the Ukrainian war started.

Its around 23 million now in total funds but its hit a plateau right now with income coming in, Wayne Parent, a Knight at St. Marys Catholic Church, said.

According to the Knights of Columbus website, they committed $1 million in immediate aid to Ukraine after the Russian invasion.

The Polish Knights of Columbus created Mercy shelters for Ukrainian refugees who came to Poland.

The Lovingston Knights of Columbus are hoping to raise money for displaced people from the war, mercy centers for Poland, supplies, and care packages.

This is their third year hosting this event.

There will be authentic Ukrainian food served at the event such as smoked sausage, pierogies, borscht, stuffed cabbage, sauerkraut, and desserts.

There will also be a beer and wine cash bar, $5 per drink.

Matty Metcalf, One Man Oompah Band, will be performing at the benefit.

The benefit will take place April 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Nelson Heritage Center. For children 6-12, tickets are $10 and for adults 13 and over, it is $20. Children under six get in for free.

To get tickets, email KOFCLovingston@gmail.com, no tickets will be served at the door.
A New York man pleaded guilty Monday to charges of coercion and enticement, accused of driving eight hours to attempt to have sex with a 14-year-old Lynchburg girl, according to a news release from the U.S. Department of Justice.

Derrick Loi, 27, of Lakeville, New York, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, but could receive a life term and a possible fine of up to $250,000, the release said.

In February 2023, according to court documents, Loi began chatting with the girl on Twitter (now X) before moving the conversation to Discord, the release said. Loi told the girl he wanted to buy sexually explicit images and video of her and wanted to meet in person for sex. He ultimately agreed to pay $300 for images and a sexual encounter.

According to the release, Loi agreed to become the girls sugar daddy, getting unlimited access to sexually explicit content of the victim for a weekly fee of $50, increasing to $100 after the first month. On Feb. 15, 2023, Loi sent a payment in accordance with the agreement.

Just more than a week later, Loi and the girl started to make plans for him to visit Lynchburg; the plans included talk of specific sexual acts and ways the acts would be filmed, according to the release. Loi reserved a hotel room, the release said, and continued to chat with the victim during his drive from New York, sending her photos of items he purchased for their encounter.

When Loi arrived at the pre-arranged location, a Lynchburg police officer began questioning him, the release said. He initially provided a false name and lied to police about why he was in Lynchburg.

A search of his vehicle revealed sex toys, a box of the morning-after pill Plan B, and the bottle of pink vodka from a photo Loi had sent to the victim, the release said. In the cars trunk was a large yellow plastic storage bag and it was lined with a vinyl or rubber shower liner with a flattened cardboard box on top.

Protecting minors from online predators is a cornerstone priority for the Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh said in the news release. I am grateful to the FBI and the Lynchburg Police Department for their swift actions in this case and preventing a more dire situation.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, and the Lynchburg Police Department provided vital assistance. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Scheff.

This investigation demonstrates the FBIs commitment to protecting the American people, especially when our children are involved, Special Agent in Charge Stanley Meador, of the FBIs Richmond Division, said in the release. I want to thank the case team and our law enforcement partners for their quick and decisive actions.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a 2006 program by the Department of Justice designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse, the release said. Led by the U.S. Attorneys Offices and the DOJs Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood brings together law enforcement resources to apprehend and prosecute those who exploit children. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
A Bedford County Sheriffs deputy used appropriate and necessary force in shooting a Rockbridge County man during a February police pursuit that ended in Bedford and no criminal charges will be filed, the countys chief prosecutor wrote in a legal opinion Monday.

Just after 11 a.m. Feb. 11, a Botetourt County Sheriffs Office deputy tried to stop an SUV for reckless driving when the driver fled a traffic stop and continued into Bedford County, a Virginia State Police news release said. The vehicle crashed on Falling Creek Road where the officer-involved shooting took place, the release said.

The March 25 letter from Bedford County Commonwealths Attorney Wes Nance said the incident involved multiple law enforcement agencies in three jurisdictions and culminated in the use of force from a Bedford County deputy against Barry Lee Derr, of Fairfield. Derr, 41, sustained multiple gunshot wounds and survived his injuries, Nance wrote.

Special agents with Virginia State Police provided the Bedford County Commonwealths Attorney Office with a comprehensive review of the incident, including what led to the pursuit and interviews with law enforcement, Derr and others as well as body camera and vehicle camera footage and dispatch records, Nance wrote.

Derr is charged with one count each of assault on law enforcement, possessing a weapon as a violent felon, and eluding police, all felonies. Nance wrote because those charges are pending, he would not provide a full accounting of facts in the legal opinion to ensure Derr, who is presumed innocent until proven guilty, can have a fair trial in Bedford County.

Nance wrote he found the deputy who shot Derr reasonably believed that deadly force was immediately necessary to protect himself or other law enforcement officers and provided a warning to Derr that such force would be used.

A preliminary hearing is set for 1:30 p.m. April 5 in Bedford General District Court. Derr is in custody at the Amherst County Adult Detention Center while awaiting trial.
TOKYO, Mar 27 (News On Japan) - As housing prices continue to surge in Japan's capital, a phenomenon known as "Escape from Tokyo" is seeing families with children moving out of Tokyo to neighboring prefectures such as Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba.

Over the past year, the net outflow of residents from Tokyo has exceeded 17,000, with the Cabinet Office noting that "this suggests that the child-rearing generation is moving to suburban areas of the capital region where housing prices are lower."

An age-specific analysis of population movement between Tokyo and the prefectures of Kanagawa, Saitama, and Chiba, based on the "Population Movement Report" published by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, revealed that while there was a net inflow to Tokyo among people in their 20s, there was a net outflow for those in their 30s and 40sconsidered the child-rearing generationas well as children under 14, totaling 17,102 individuals. The breakdown shows that the highest net outflow from Tokyo was to Saitama Prefecture with 8,086 people, followed by Chiba Prefecture with 4,557, and Kanagawa Prefecture with 4,459. This trend has been particularly noticeable since around 2020, and the Cabinet Office, in its economic report published in February this year, pointed out that "rental and condominium prices for families continue to rise in Tokyo, suggesting that the child-rearing generation is moving to the more affordable suburbs of the capital region." Furthermore, it was stated that "if the child-rearing generation cannot afford to purchase homes, it could lead to a long-term decline in employment and birth rates," and recommended that "policies such as expanding the supply of public housing are necessary to secure homes for the child-rearing generation."

Unable to Find Affordable Housing in Tokyo, Families Move to the Suburbs

Among those in the child-rearing generation, there are people who, unable to find affordable housing in Tokyo, have decided to move to the suburbs. One such example is a couple in their 40s and 30s who lived in a company housing in Tokyo. They began looking for a property within the 23 wards of Tokyo that could accommodate a family of four over a year ago, before their 6-year-old daughter entered elementary school. However, they could not find a condominium within their budget of 70 million yen, as prices had risen. They also searched for rental properties in Tokyo, but family-friendly options were scarce and rents remained high, leading them to give up and ultimately decide to move to a rental apartment in Narashino City, Chiba Prefecture, taking into consideration commute times and the educational environment. They moved out of their company housing in Tokyo in late March. Even in Narashino City, new condominiums exceed 80 million yen, so the couple has decided to continue living in a rental while searching for a property that fits their budget. The wife, in her 30s, said, "We looked at over ten properties in Narashino City, but didn't feel they were significantly cheaper than in Tokyo, so we're currently in temporary housing due to time constraints. The thought of continuing the house hunt is somewhat disheartening, but we want to switch gears and start our new life positively."

Source: NHK
MIE, Mar 27 (News On Japan) - During a visit to Mie Prefecture, Princess Aiko, the daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, immersed herself in the rich tapestry of Japan's past at a museum within the sacred precincts of Ise Shrine on Wednesday morning.

The museum, dedicated to the legacy of women who historically served the shrine, offers a unique window into the spiritual heart of Japan.

Princess Aiko embarked on a tour of the museum, which serves as a custodian of the tales of the Saio - virgin princesses of the imperial family who lived in service to the shrine from the Asuka to the Kamakura periods. This tradition, deeply entwined with the essence of Japanese spirituality, highlights the significant role women played in the nation's religious heritage.

Before delving into the museum's exhibits, Princess Aiko was warmly greeted by local elementary school children, a gesture that underscored the connection between Japan's royal family and its people. This interaction, marked by genuine warmth and curiosity, set the tone for a day of profound historical engagement.

With keen interest, Princess Aiko examined meticulously reconstructed models of the Saio's residences, learning about the archaeological efforts to unearth and preserve these historical sites. These models, bridges to the past, offered her a tangible connection to the lives of women who, centuries ago, walked a path of devotion and duty.

The journey through Japan's storied past continued as Princess Aiko visited a facility dedicated to the culture of the Heian period. There, alongside local students, she engaged in "Kaioi," an ancient shell-matching game. This activity, which once entertained the nobility of the Heian court, allowed the princess and the children to momentarily step into the world of their ancestors, experiencing the leisure and cultural pursuits of a bygone era.

Related: Princess Aiko Visits Ise Shrine Alone

Source: ANN
NARA, Mar 27 (News On Japan) - Ryohei Suzuki, famous as a voice actor for playing Buzz Lightyear in the Japanese dubbed version, visited the historic Hasedera Temple in Nara, which dates back to 736, highlighting the temple's spiritual significance and artistic beauty.

Traversing the 399-step corridor, the actor was moved by the pure and flowing Shomyo chants as he quietly prayed, touching the feet of the over 10-meter tall statue of the Eleven-faced Kannon. Suzuki passionately shared his awe-inspiring visit to the enchanting Hasedera.

This visit was part of JR East's spring campaign, marking the fifth installment of their "To Nara" series with a new commercial titled "The Temples of Yamato." In this role as a "travel guide," Suzuki explored the precincts of Hasedera in Nara, with the commercial set to air starting April 1st.

In an interview conducted after the filming, Suzuki expressed his astonishment, "Hasedera is all art! I had heard from acquaintances that it was a beautiful temple, but I never imagined it would be this breathtaking." He vividly shared his admiration for the temple's beauty.

Relating to Hasedera's status as a "hidden hamlet," Suzuki was asked about his own "hidden hobby," to which he revealed, "Actually, I enjoy sewing," and went on to share the backstory of how he came to love this craft.

Source: ANN
TOKYO, Mar 27 (News On Japan) - The trailer for "Reiji Himuro," the 10th-anniversary commemorative work of the "Japan Unity" series, has been unveiled.

This series, revolving around two men's journey to the pinnacle of the yakuza world, takes a deep dive into the life of one of its protagonists, Reiji Himuro. The film shines a spotlight on Himuro's role as a father, embarking on a lone journey to Taiwan to rescue his kidnapped son, showcasing his battle in the criminal underworld.

Directed and written by Hiroyuki Tsuji, known for his extensive work in gangster drama series, the film features a beloved returning cast including Yasufumi Motomiya and Yoshiyuki Yamaguchi from Kamen Rider.

Source: 
Engr Kemisola Bolarinwa, Founder and chief executive officer of Nextwear Technologies

By Biodun Busari

Nigerian robotics and embedded systems engineer, Kemisola Bolarinwa, has invented a smart bra capable of diagnosing early-stages breast cancer before symptoms develop.

Bolarinwa made the invention known to the world in February 2022, by designing the prototype of the smart bra. It was spurred by the death of her loved one in 2017.

She said before the death of her aunt, she rarely paid any attention to breast cancer. This was because it was just something she heard on the TV or radio.

Bolarinwa is the founder and chief executive officer of Nextwear Technologies, the first wearable technology startup in Nigeria. She said she was moved to invent the smart bra, after frequent visits to the hospital where her aunt was before she died.

According to her, seeing other women battling breast cancer was painful. She then intensified efforts on the invention.

Her invention was recognised by BBC Africa. She spent a year and a half of intense research, before the smart bra came up in 2019, Bolarinwa added.

How breast cancer bra works

To detect lumps in the breast, the smart bra repurposes ultrasound technology into a small form factor. The initiative is to shrink down an ultrasound machine to a portable size where it becomes wearable.

According to Bolarinwa, this was possible with nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is a branch of science, technology, and engineering that deals with the manufacturing of tech in small sizes.

For more context, the smart bra uses an ultrasound system called the Doppler that bounces high-frequency sound waves off the body to detect blood clots, heart defects, and blocked arteries. This works differently from ultrasound machines that use sound waves to generate images of the scanned area.

More work on smart bra

After years of research and developing a prototype, she revealed there is still a lot of work before the breast cancer bra can be commercialised.

Bolarinwa said the smart bra still needs further development and extensive clinical. She gave a time frame between the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023 for mass production.

Aside from being an inventor, Bolarinwa is also a strong advocate for getting more women interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), something she was passionate about growing up.

Bolarinwa called for more work on research for inventions to be effective in solving the problems they are designed for. Also, she lamented that there are not adequate research organisations to help.

She said: In four months, a fintech platform will be built and be ready for the market. This is one of the reasons why few people play in the hardware or deep tech side of technology in Africa. There arent enough research institutes.

Who she is

Bolarinwa holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering from the University of Ado-Ekiti (now Ekiti State University).

She has more than 10 years of experience, exceptional tech skills and strong problem-solving skills. She is passionate about solving complex problems and staying up-to-date with the latest technologies.

Bolarinwa is an inventor, innovator, entrepreneur, and president of the Women In ICT Foundation, a nonprofit organization that focuses on providing technology education, leadership, and businesses for women and young girls to resolve problems of the under-representation of women in leadership, policy-making, and math-intensive fields of science and technology.

Nigeria is endowed with exceptional and skilled inventors such as the 70-year-old man who developed more than inventions, but the challenge they are faced with is the lack of support from the government and other recognised agencies or entrepreneurs to sponsor their research and inventions.

VANGUARD
The City of La Vista has chosen Mike Schofield as the citys next chief of police/director of public safety.

Schofield, a 33-year law enforcement veteran and current division commander of the Shoal Creek Patrol Division of the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department, will join the department on Monday, June 3.

Schofield has held a variety of positions within the KCMO Police Department and has valuable experience and extensive knowledge in the areas of detention operations, patrol/criminal interdiction operations, community-oriented policing, counter-drug intelligence analysis, criminal investigations, planning for major event operations, patrol deployment strategies, intelligence-led policing and information technology management.

Schofield has an Executive MBA with an emphasis in organizational leadership from Benedictine College; Master of Arts in National Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security and a bachelors degree in business management from Baker University.

After an extensive search, it is a privilege to appoint Mike Schofield to serve as La Vistas next chief of police, said Mayor Douglas Kindig. His impressive background and leadership experience give me complete confidence that he is the right person to guide and shape the future of our police department. I am impressed not only by his genuine nature but his thorough understanding of the critical issues and priorities impacting law enforcement and our community. We look forward to working with him and welcoming him to La Vista.

Schofield rose to the top of a field of highly qualified candidates for this position and was one of three finalists who recently visited La Vista and interacted with residents during a community forum.

The opportunity to join the La Vista Police Department is an absolute honor and privilege, Schofield said. The dedicated men and women of this police department have been performing exceptionally well, and I am committed to building on the outstanding leadership provided by Capt. D.J. Barcal this past year or so. I look forward to the opportunity to become more acquainted with the community and to work collaboratively with the officers and professional staff of the department. Together, we will carry on our shared mission to ensure the safety of the La Vista community.

Schofields official start date in La Vista will be June 3, and the city council will vote to approve his appointment at its meeting on Tuesday, June 4. He will become La Vistas fifth Police Chief.
Noon & Centennial Rotary

The Council Bluffs Noon and Centennial Rotary Clubs held the 15th annual Fifth Grade Career Fair on March 19 at Iowa Western Community College.

In order to facilitate an event that brings together nearly 1,000 fifth graders, it almost takes a village of volunteers and financial contributors to do so.

The sponsors underwrote the cost of hosting, engaging, feeding and transporting the fifth-grade students drawn from the Council Bluffs Community School District, Heartland Christian School, Iowa School for the Deaf, Lewis Central Community School District and St Albert Catholic Schools.

The supporting businesses and organizations included Iowa Western Community College, Hoff Family Foundation, American National Bank, Availa Bank, Coberlys Real Images, Community Foundation for Western Iowa, Cosmopolitan Club of Council Bluffs, Frontier Savings Bank, Lewis Central PTA, The Nonpareil and US Bank, in addition to the aforementioned two Rotary Clubs from which most of the volunteers are drawn.

Nancy Schulze of the Noon Club and Brian Moon of the Centennial Club expressed their gratitude for the event sponsors.

Education is such a priority for both clubs, and this program fits the needs of local students so well, Schulze said.

The mission of Rotary Clubs is to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders. Council Bluffs Rotary Clubs has been serving the community since 1915 with the leading purpose of service above self. A multitude of service projects and fundraising to support projects are carried out throughout the year.
WATERLOO  Authorities have identified the man who was shot and killed by police following a report of gunfire Monday afternoon.

The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation identified the deceased as John Piazza, 41, who allegedly pointed a gun at officers at his home at 1204 Hartman Ave.

The officer involved in the shooting has been placed on critical incident leave pending the investigation, according to Waterloo police.

Waterloo police confirmed they were called to a report of gunfire at an auto shop at 2701 Falls Avenue around 2:47 p.m.

Employees reported that a man who lived nearby  later identified as Piazza  put a gun to an employees face and fired a shot inside the business.

No one at the shop was injured, and workers stated Piazza told them he would return with a rifle. Employees reported he was wearing jeans and a T-shirt, had a long beard and was bald.

Waterloo officers noticed a man fitting the description near the windows of the home with a long gun.

A Waterloo police officer observed Piazza point a long gun out of a window toward officers. The officer fired at Piazza, striking him. Officers entered the residence and found Piazza deceased.

Neighbors said they were told to stay in their homes.

"I came outside, just to see what was going on, and a cop said 'Get in your house, this guy is shooting at us.' So I ran in the house and ducked," said a woman who lives down the street.

"I look over and a I see a guy (officer) with an AR-15 run by, and there's another one over there," another neighbor said.

Officers from Waterloo, the Black Hawk County Sheriff's Office and the Iowa State Patrol  most carrying military-style rifles  were on the scene with a section of Falls Avenue shut down so an ambulance could wait nearby.

The Waterloo Police Department's Bearcat armored vehicle was parked on the lawn of the Hartman Avenue home and a ground-floor window next to the vehicle was broken out.

Other neighbors said they heard someone at the Hartman Avenue house screaming earlier in the morning, around 3:30 a.m. Monday.

They didn't think anything of it until Monday afternoon when they heard gunshots and saw police.

"I heard a loud boom. ... It was one big boom. Then about five minutes later, boom, boom," said one man who lives down the block.

"My sister said she heard two shots fired," said another person from the neighborhood.

"I watched them break the door down," said one woman who lives nearby. She said she saw officers enter the house.

Photos: Shooting, Thorndale and Hartman, Waterloo March 25, 2014 032524jr-shooting-2 032524jr-shooting-1 032524jr-shooting-3 032524jr-shooting-5
DES MOINES  State general funding for Iowas K-12 public schools will increase by 2.5%, beginning public teachers salaries will be boosted and the funding and structure of Iowas nine area education agencies will be altered under sweeping education legislation that soon will be signed into law by Gov. Kim Reynolds.

Iowa Senate Republicans approved the bill Tuesday, giving final legislative blessing to a proposal that realizes  at least partially  a goal set by Reynolds almost three months ago during her Condition of the State address.

Shortly after the bill passed the Senate, Reynolds office announced she will sign it into law on Wednesday at the Iowa Capitol.

Area education agencies oversee education of Iowa students with disabilities and offer media and consulting services to schools and students within their boundaries.

The legislative approval sends a strong message: Every Iowa student deserves a world-class education, and the compensation of every Iowa teacher should reflect the importance of their role, Reynolds said in a statement Tuesday.

Over the last several weeks, this bill has been the focus of much discussion and debate. Change is seldom easy, but it is necessary to achieve better results, Reynolds statement added. Reforming the AEA system creates accountability, transparency, consistency and most importantly, better outcomes for all Iowas students.

Only Republicans voted in favor of the legislation, and a few in each chamber voted against it.

Democrats said they supported the boost in teacher pay but voted against the final version of the bill because of how it would alter area education agencies and because they believed the state school funding increase was too low.

AEA changes

Currently, federal and state special-education funding goes directly to Iowas nine area education agencies. AEAs also receive property-tax funding for media services and other education services for schools in their region.

Once the bill, House File 2612, is fully implemented in the second year, 10% of state funding for special-education services will remain with school districts for them to use how they see fit, while 90% will continue to flow directly to the AEAs.

In the second year, all state funding for other education services and media services will go directly to schools, which could use that for AEA services or for another entity.

The proposal also creates a division in the Iowa Department of Education  up to 53 new full-time equivalent positions  to provide oversight of special-education services provided by the AEAs. The bill also establishes a task force to study AEA structure and funding and recommend future changes.

The plan has drawn strong opposition from educators and parents of students with disabilities who worry it will hurt special education in the state.

Most school superintendents also expressed opposition to the legislation, although some said they are in favor of having more control of their special-education dollars.

Cindy Yelick, chief administrator of the Heartland AEA in Des Moines, was on hand for the Senate debate and vote at the Iowa Capitol. Afterward, she said she expects a bumpy few years ahead for area education agencies.

I cant really tell you what its going to look like long-term. The timeline (to implement the changes) is short, the changes are significant, Yelick said. As always, the AEAs will be focused on doing their very best to deliver supports and services to children and families and students and teachers and schools. That is who we are. And we will remain focused on that, and do our best to preserve that level of service that weve been known for.

Yelick said other AEAs already had seen staff leave because of uncertainty.

Theres a lot of unknowns. And I cant stand here today and say that people arent going to feel a difference in the next three months, six months, a year, Yelick said. But as I say, our long-term goal will always remain with the students.

What lawmakers said

One Republican senator who voted against the bill was Charlie McClintock, of Alburnett. He called the proposal universally disliked by both parties.

Based on the content and input that I receive, I can say with some confidence that no one really likes this bill, McClintock said during Senate debate. The very idea of dismantling and defunding the area education agencies has upset and offended the people in Iowa to a whole nother level.

Democrats also expressed heavy criticism of the bills AEA provision, and accused Republicans of siding with the governor despite pleas from the public.

By doing this bill today, what you are saying to your constituents is they dont matter, what they say doesnt matter, that you serve the governor and not the people, Sen. Molly Donahue, D-Cedar Rapids who has worked for 43 years as a special-education teacher, said during debate.

Democrats also criticized Republicans adding multiple elements to one bill  AEAs, school funding and teacher pay  saying each should have been debated separately.

Sen. Lynn Evans, R-Aurelia and a former teacher, principal and superintendent, said the bill returned special-education oversight to the state and would attract more teachers to work in Iowa.

This bill in its entirety will not only improve student achievement in special education, it will not only help improve the AEA system, which is a support system for special (education) and general education, but its going to raise student achievement in its entirety in our state, Evans said.

Public school funding

The 2.5% increase in state general funding for public school districts means an additional $119 million in the 2024-2025 school year, for a total of $3.8 billion, according to the states nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency.

At that funding level, the number of school districts on the state funding programs budget guarantee  which allows districts to receive funding that would ensure a budget at 101% of the previous year, funded by local property taxes  roughly doubles, from 71 districts to 140, more than 43% of districts in the state, according to agency.

We are consistently and continually underfunding our public schools every year, and this bill just makes it worse, Sen. Claire Celsi, D-West Des Moines, said during debate.

Teacher salaries

The minimum salary for first-year teachers in Iowa would increase from the current $33,500 to $47,500 in the 2024-2025 school year and $50,000 the next year.

And the minimum salary for teachers with at least 12 years of experience would be set at $60,000 in the upcoming school year and $62,000 the following year.

The bill also includes $22 million in the upcoming school year and $23 million the next year to address other veteran teachers salaries, and $14 million to help boost the pay of educational support staff, like paraeducators.

Those paraeducators work directly with those children, and they form a bond with those children and their childrens families, Evans said. These are important, critical people that work with our kids on a daily basis. This is a good addition.

Caleb McCullough of the Lee-Gazette Des Moines Bureau contributed.
France says it has asked 46 countries if they would be willing to supply more than 2,000 police officers to help secure the Paris Olympics this summer, as organizers finalize security planning for the French capital's first Games in a century while on heightened alert against potential attacks.
China is reportedly seeking a new military base in Africa, building on growing anti-western sentiment as it seeks to strengthen its foothold in a continent that is increasingly coveted, the London-based Chatham House Think tank wrote.

For over three decades, every Chinese foreign ministers first overseas trip of the year has been to Africa. This year continued the tradition with Chinas foreign minister, Wang Yi, visiting Egypt, Tunisia, Togo, and Cote dIvoire, Chatham House wrote in an expert comment.

It cited the relevance of the Chinese base in Djibouti which opened in 2017 to counter piracy.

This base has over the years matured from a resupply facility to a logistics facility, supported by up to two brigades of the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA), it said.

This base was of importance to China as Houthi militias disrupt maritime traffic.

The analysts also argues that China is mulling a new base in Africa, citing the example of the Libyan revolution in 2011 that left China unable to protect some 35,000 of its nationals stranded in the war-torn country.

As great powers such as the USA, Russia, India and the UK seeks new military bases in the continent, China is in a race against the clock to build on its commercial ties to boost its military presence.
The disruption of oil exports from South Sudan after one of its key oil pipelines to international markets was damaged in February could further escalate already acute level of violence and in security in the country, experts have warned.

South Sudan depends on its northern neighbor Sudan to export its oil, but Khartoum has recently admitted that it cannot guarantee the smooth export, as a year of war has made it difficult to maintain or even protect the pipeline to Port Sudan. The February incident happened in Sudans White Nile state, which is controlled by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), prompting the Dar Petroleum Oil Company to suspend loadings. The ongoing fighting has prevented a team of technical experts to fix the pipeline, raising fears that South Sudans political economy could collapse.

The RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces have been fighting for more than a year following a disagreement over the countrys transitional future.

Now South Sudanese officials and experts have warned that the countrys oil sector and economy have been significantly disrupted by the war in Sudan and the conflict in the Red Sea, presenting a risk to stability in East Africa.

The pipeline accounts for two-thirds or three-quarters of oil revenues, said Alan Boswell from International Crisis Group (ICG), a non-profit group dedicated to conflict resolution. Unless [South Sudan] is able to get the pipeline working again, it will be a massive pull on South Sudans budget. Overall, oil is responsible for about 90% of the countrys revenue, according to a 2022 World Bank report.
King Mohammed VI laid, on Tuesday, the foundation stone for a community medical center and launched the 2nd Stage of a connected mobile medical units program in Casablanca.

The two projects reflect the Kings commitment to strengthen the national healthcare system, improve medical services for citizens, consolidate community healthcare services, promote the access of populations, notably in rural areas, to quality basic health services and ensure periodic and regular medical monitoring for people whose health requires specialized consultations.

The Community Medical Center, located in Lissasfa district, requires a 90-million dirhams investment and is the 3rd of its kind in the Casablanca-Settat region, after those built in Sidi Moumen district and the new town of Errahma. The project is an integral part of an action plan led by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity to support the national medical sector, particularly by reinforcing healthcare system in densely populated urban areas.

As an intermediary facility between the network of basic healthcare facilities (levels 1 and 2) and the hospital network, the future Center, which will provide services to some 60,000 people a year, will help alleviate pressure on existing hospital facilities in the region and avoid long-distance journeys to other facilities.

This Community Medical Center will be built within 24 months on an 11,170 m2 site (7,692 m2 covered), and will include units for outpatient consultations and functional explorations, functional rehabilitation, dental care, and community medical emergencies.

It will also include units for primary care, radiology, childbirth and sterilization, as well as a surgery room, a medical analysis laboratory, a hospitalization unit (13 double rooms), a pharmacy, and a kitchen.

Carried out thanks to a partnership between the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity and the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, this project is part of an overall program led by the Foundation that will eventually see the construction of twelve Community Medical Centers: three in Casablanca, two in Fez, two in Tangiers and one in each of Agadir, Marrakech, Rabat, Sale, and Temara.

During the foundation stone laying ceremony, the King followed explanations on the Hospital Information System, an integrated digital system, set up by the Ministry of Health and based on the concept of the patients file that brings together all his data: administrative data, medical file, and care records.

The system, available in both primary care and hospital facilities, is one of the pillars of the national healthcare system overhaul, and enables healthcare professionals to access patient medical data at any time, with the aim of speeding up medical treatment and improving efficiency.

As for the Connected Mobile Medical Unit program whose 2nd stage was launched this Tuesday by the King, it aims to improve access to medical services for rural populations, and represents a new intervention model that combines community care and telemedicine.

The first stage of this pilot program, launched by the Sovereign on October 28, 2023, was carried out in partnership between the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, the Ministry of Health and the service provider MEDIOT Technology. It provides for deploying 50 connected mobile medical units in 34 provinces, across nine regions of the Kingdom. The second stage involves the deployment of fifty new connected mobile medical units.

Each connected mobile medical unit comprises a medical block consisting of two multi-purpose consultation and treatment cubicles, equipped with basic medical instruments, medical furniture, connectivity systems and a full range of state-of-the art biomedical equipment, which serve as work tools for remote consultations.

The center is run by a dedicated team, including a general practitioner, two nurses and an administrative manager, who handle face-to-face general medical consultations, tele-expertise, outpatient care and public health program monitoring.

Resort to tele-expertise is the responsibility of the general practitioner who, when a case requires an opinion or assistance with examinations, calls on a specialist, depending on the specialty required (gynecology-obstetrics, pediatrics, endocrinology, dermatology, ENT, cardiology, pneumology and nephrology), who operates from a central telemedicine platform linked to all the connected mobile medical units.

The King followed a simulation of a tele-expertise carried out by a general practitioner on site, in liaison with specialist doctors at the central telemedicine platform in Casablanca.

Up to March 25, the fifty connected mobile medical units deployed as part of the first stage had provided 119,532 medical services to 104,041 people, 65% of them women. Some 96,753 people received general consultations and care, and 11,989 cases required tele-expertise in the various specialties available.

On this occasion, the Sovereign symbolically handed over three ambulances and five utility vehicles, donated by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, to representatives of the Adassil, Talat NYacoub and Tizi NTest municipalities, which were affected by the earthquake of September 08, as well as five associations.

This is part of a donation of 46 vehicles for municipalities, associations, and cooperatives in different regions of the Kingdom.
Moroccos Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York stressed on its X account that Morocco welcomes the UN Security Councils adoption on Monday of resolution 2728, which calls for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip during the month of Ramadan.

This resolution is a crucial step towards putting an end to the suffering of Palestinian civilians, underlined the Moroccan Mission.

Morocco, whose Sovereign, King Mohammed VI, is Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, also welcomes the resolutions call for humanitarian aid to be delivered to civilians throughout Gaza and for their protection to be stepped up, the Mission said.

Morocco also stressed the importance of immediate and full implementation of the resolution by all parties, to address the crisis in all its dimensions, and calls for an increase in humanitarian aid by the international community for the benefit of the Palestinian people, said the Moroccan Mission.

The UN Security Council adopted a resolution on Monday demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during the month of Ramadan and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, while stressing the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian aid.
Moroccos Bank of Africa said its 2023 profit increased 16% to 260 million dollars last year, with a net banking income of 1.7 billion dollars, up 9%.

African branches contributed by 56% in this performance while Moroccan business accounted for 42% of total earnings, the bank said.

Bank of Africa, previously known as BMCE, is the third largest universal bank in Morocco.

Moroccan banks, insurance firms, companies in telecoms, mining and construction have established a significant presence in African countries, making the kingdom a notable source of foreign direct investment in some parts of the continent.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and the chief of Nigers military junta, Abdourahmane Tiani, had an important phone call on Tuesday (26 March), the Kremlin has revealed, adding that both men discussed security cooperation and security concerns in the Sahel region.

The Russian leader and the chairman of Nigers National Council also reportedly spoke about strengthening security cooperation, according to an official communique. The two countries had already agreed in January to strengthen military ties when a delegation led by Nigers Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine visited Moscow. Putin and Tiani talked of the need for strengthening security cooperation to face current threats, Nigerian government said in a statement. They also discussed projects for multi-sector and global strategic cooperation, it added without further explanation.

Niger, one of the worlds poorest countries, had been a frontline partner of the West in battling insurgents in the Sahel, but has embraced Russia as an alternative defense partner since the countrys democratically elected president was ousted in a military coup in mid-2023. General Tiani, who has led Niger since the July coup, thanked Putin for Russias support for the West African country and its struggle for national sovereignty. The Nigers newfound relationship with Russia, however, seem to be coming at the cost of Nigers ties with the West. The US still stations some 1,000 military personnel in Niger, but its continuing presence there is now jeopardized after the decision by Nigers junta administration to terminate a military cooperation deal with Washington.
King Mohammed VI has vowed to diversify and strengthen the promising strategic partnership existing between Morocco and Senegal.

This came in a message of congratulations the sovereign addressed to Bassirou Diomaye Faye on his election as President of Senegal.

The Senegalese people have entrusted you with the responsibility of presiding over the destiny of your Nation by electing you, in the first round, to the Presidency of the Republic of Senegal. I congratulate you and send you my best wishes for every success in the exercise of your office, the King said in his message.

Our two peoples form a community of values and destiny based on the strong cultural and spiritual tradition that constitutes a constant in relations between our two countries, the Sovereign underlined, expressing all the esteem he holds for the historical depth of these unwavering bonds of brotherhood, solidarity and high consideration between us.

The Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Senegal also constitute a model of fruitful, dense and multidimensional cooperation, the Sovereign said, voicing his resolve to work, alongside the President of Senegal, to diversify and strengthen our promising strategic partnership, for the benefit of our two youths and in favor of a united and prosperous Africa.

The privileged bond between Morocco and Senegal is a precious heritage that our two countries have always honored. You can count on the Kingdoms faithful willingness to cooperate in its extension and consolidation, King Mohammed VI stated further in his message.

Diomaye Faye won Sundays presidential election, making history both as Africas youngest elected president and the first African opposition figure to win his countrys presidential elections in the first round.

The political newcomer will succeed Macky Sall, who has served as Senegals president since April 2012.

Diomaye Fayes victory was hailed as a triumph for Senegalese democracy.
On March 18, the Nebraska Legislature started what would become a three-day debate over LB 441, a bill introduced by State Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston.

Albrechts bill aimed to close a loophole that she said gave K-12 teachers and librarians immunity from prosecution if they provided obscenity to children.

This sparked debate on whether Nebraska school libraries were providing objectionable material to their students.

LB 441 ultimately failed 30-17 on March 20, just three votes short of ending the debate and allowing a second vote on advancement.

However, the debate raised concerns about how Nebraska schools decide which books are allowed in their classrooms and libraries.

In August of 2022 the North Platte Public School district adopted policy number 6037 that outlines the selection and review of library media for their elementary, middle school and high schools.

We have a good solid policy based on our law firm that has given us guidance, and right now we feel like its working really successfully, said Lyndsey Douglas, director of elementary teaching and learning at NPPS.

Douglas said that any new materials the schools add to their libraries are reviewed utilizing a district committee review team.

These teams are comprised of library media specialists  members of the Nebraska Library Association who follow National Library Standards  classroom teacher representatives and the schools directors of teaching and learning.

When we look at selecting materials, we consider the presence on best seller lists, awards won, recommendations from professional library journals and organizations with a focus on K-12 school library materials, as well as whether the content in the material represents a perspective that may not be universal, she said.

Vikki Carlson, director of secondary teaching and learning, said the library media specialists will consider comments and recommendations from the Nebraska Library Association and the National Library Standards to determine what is grade level, age and developmentally appropriate.

Its really important for the general public to understand that our curriculum and resources are grounded in the Nebraska State Standards, and so all of our decisions curricularly and the resources and materials that we use are tied back to the standards, Carlson said.

If a school librarian, media specialist or an individual requests a book to be added to the library of any school in the district, the policy states they must submit the request in writing to the library material review committee and include the following:

Name of the book, material or resource.

The author, publisher and supplier of the material.

The physical medium (i.e., book, magazine, video, game, digital subscription, etc.).

The cost of the material.

A summary of the content of the material, including how it supports age-appropriate learning objectives, enriches the curriculum and/or supports student development and learning.

The materials accolades, such as presence on best seller lists, awards won and recommendations from professional library journals and organizations with a focus on K-12 school library materials.

Whether any of the content in the material represents a perspective that may not be universal, such as a political, religious or social perspective for which disagreement or differences of opinion exist. The summary should include a description of these items.

With over 90,000 books within the distinct and more added every year, however, Douglas said they cannot be experts on each and every one.

Each school has to have so many books every year, new titles in the library every year, so that would be quite a few titles to make sure that we have all read front-to-back, she said. If there is a book in question, then we do read it and make sure that the committee as a whole has read the book, and then we can really discuss it from there.

Under the Nebraska Department of Educations Rule 10, elementary schools in the state are required a minimum of 25 new library materials per teacher per year. Middle and high schools are required a minimum of 150 titles total each year.

NPPS policy states that in the event the committee does not agree on a particular request concerning library material an administrator will make the final decision for which there will be no appeal.

Its important for us to have a policy that supports access to materials so that if there is questionable content, or there are families or community members that feel something is questionable, we have the policy and procedure so that we can address that, Carlson said.

A concerned parent of a current student or a patron living within the school district boundaries may request a review of a specific library book, according to the policy. It must first be discussed with the principal of the building the book resides in before going to a superintendent review.

NPPS does have opportunities for families if there is something that they are not comfortable with in terms of material or content regarding books set in the curriculum.

Choices are provided for students and families in case they arent comfortable with the material or content, Carlson said. Thats something they can visit with their classroom teachers about and request an alternative assignment or reading content.

Having these processes and procedures for library materials gives educators confidence and provides guidance in the case that a book is called into question, Douglas said, allowing them to make the best decision for their schools.

Everyone brings their own perspectives, Douglas said. Its really hard to get into what one opinion is over the other. We can kind of use the policy to really take out the opinion and say heres the facts of the matter of what book were considering or what books we welcome into our library.

All titles within NPPS can be found on the districts online catalog, and can be searched by school.
Passage of the Legislatures main 2024 budget bills Tuesday sent Gov. Jim Pillen a provision to unlock a $1 million grant to North Platte to recycle decrepit homes or vacant lots for new housing.

A fix-it measure for the grant, first proposed by North Platte state Sen. Mike Jacobson, was included in Legislative Bill 1412. Senators gave the bill 42-6 final approval.

North Platte, McCook and Arnold were among 12 March 2023 winners of grants from the Rural Workforce Housing Land Development program, financed by federal COVID-19 aid.

But the state later offered the grants as loans due to U.S. Treasury guidance on the use of American Rescue Plan Act funds. The fix-it language, which Jacobson had offered as LB 850, is meant to satisfy the federal directive.

North Platte officials plan to use their $1 million grant to bolster a city revolving fund for acquiring titles to decayed homes or vacant lots and prepare them for resale and construction of new affordable housing.

In other Unicameral action, lawmakers Monday night advanced two western Nebraska senators priority bills to the final stage of floor action on voice votes.

LB 1120, Gering Sen. Brian Hardins 2024 priority, would require land purchasers within range of Panhandle Minuteman III missile silos or alert facilities to sign affidavits saying theyre not tied to a foreign adversary as defined in current federal regulations.

That means people buying land in all or parts of eight Panhandle counties would have to verify theyre not linked to China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia or Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

During a brief second-round debate, senators voted 35-0 to adopt a Hardin amendment saying title or interest in the land involved in a purchase would not be invalid or unmarketable should a purchaser fail to file the affidavit.

Lawmakers talked a little longer during subsequent discussion of LB 1169, Bayard Sen. Steve Erdmans priority bill making History Nebraska  still officially known as the Nebraska State Historical Society  a code agency under the executive branch.

If passed and signed by Pillen, the governor would appoint the History Nebraska director subject to confirmation by the Legislature. That power had been exercised by the State Historical Societys governing board, which would become a board of trustees.

Second-round debate revolved around an amendment charging the agency director with studying, maintaining and presenting historical materials in such a manner that stimulates, encourages and protects the freedom of expression and academic freedom essential for the appreciation and understanding of the history of Nebraska.

Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, who introduced the amendment, called it protective language for free expression modeled on a similar law guiding the Nebraska Arts Council.

History Nebraska supporters have said they fear LB 1169 would lead to political interference by a governor in the agencys historical work without such an amendment, Conrad said.

Erdman initially opposed the amendment, but he later relented and joined in a 35-0 vote to attach it to LB 1169.
A property tax relief plan before the Legislature likely isnt sustainable and unwisely targets sales taxes to fund it, the leader of a Lincoln-based state policy research group said Wednesday in North Platte.

Rebecca Firestone, executive director of OpenSky Policy Institute, told Noon Rotary Club members that Legislative Bill 388s sales and excise tax increases ask lower-income Nebraskans to pay to bring down local property tax rates. She'll speak to Sunrise Rotary members at 7 a.m. Thursday at North Platte Community College's South Campus.

There are a lot of folks who are frustrated about property taxes, and for good reason, said Firestone, who also echoed problems with a statewide consumption-tax petition drive voiced in a March 21 Lincoln County Board of Realtors forum by veteran lobbyist Korby Gilbertson of Lincoln.

But sales taxes are almost always automatically regressive, and there are a lot of other essentials to life that would cost lower-income people more if LB 388 passes, she said.

Later, in an afternoon interview with The Telegraph, Firestone said state government cant count on its record surpluses of recent years to last.

Right now we still have a budget surplus, and a lot of its because of (federal) fiscal stimulus due to the (COVID-19) pandemic, she said.

The past couple of years, theres been enough money to direct to property tax relief and to income tax cuts. Its getting harder now.

An expected eight hours of Unicameral floor debate began Wednesday afternoon on LB 388, which would be amended from its original 2023 form to aim toward realizing Gov. Jim Pillens pledge to reduce statewide property tax payments by 40%. First-round debate will continue Thursday.

The Revenue Committees $650 million proposal calls for a general sales-tax increase of up to 1%, as well as targeted boosts in some excise taxes and removal of selected sales tax exemptions, as part of doubling per-student school district foundation aid restored last year to Nebraskas state school-aid formula.

The committee plan would abolish the 4-year-old income tax credit or rebate for school property taxes and also direct funds used for them toward raising foundation aid. Cities, villages and counties would be subjected to caps on growth in their property tax requests, similar to the one lawmakers imposed on schools last year.

Firestone said OpenSky as a principle of good tax policy opposes raising sales tax rates, which typically take up a larger share of household costs for lower-income people than wealthier ones.

Its better if you broaden the sales tax base to lower the sales tax rate, she told The Telegraph.

Broadly eliminating sales tax exemptions would do that, she said, but LB 388 instead targets only selected exemptions such as soda pop and candy.

Lets not pick winners and losers, she said. Lets just be consistent.

The Revenue Committee plan also would eliminate state sales taxes on local utility services. That might help lower-income Nebraskans, Firestone said, but its not sufficient to make the income in sales taxes more affordable for people who are income-constrained.

While speaking to Noon Rotary members at Another Round, Firestone also called attention to the significant state income tax cuts senators enacted in 2023 and will gradually take effect over the next few years.

While those cuts are supposed to make Nebraska more competitive with other states, she said, it also deprives the state of many millions of dollars it might need if the states economy turns downward as it has often in the past.

Eventually, we may get to the point where the state is overcommitted on spending  and well have to start cutting back on services, she said.

Firestone also expressed worry about related legislative efforts to sweep millions of dollars in cash funds from state agencies to further pay for LB 388s property tax relief.

Such funds are there to help us with rainy days, she told Noon Rotary members. That usually happens when the states broke. But Nebraska is not broke right now.

Most of Firestones talk before Noon Rotary members focused on the twin petition drives for constitutional amendments to abolish property, income, inheritance and current state and local taxes and allow only consumption and excise taxes in 2026.

She said OpenSky has estimated the state would need a combined 22% consumption tax rate rather than the 7.5% rate estimated for petition supporters by the Beacon Hill Institute for Public Policy Research. A new Tax Foundation study reached a similar conclusion.

Firestone also addressed possible outcomes if only one or the other of the two would-be constitutional amendments is adopted by voters. One outlaws all but consumption and excise taxes, while the other would specifically require a state consumption tax and let local governments start their own.

If the first amendment alone passed, we might be in a real world of hurt, because how would Nebraska have an ability to collect tax revenues? she told the Noon Rotary audience.

If only the amendment requiring consumption taxes were adopted, Firestone added, I believe it would lead to a lot of legal confusion as a state consumption tax is added to the states current tax array.
One of the reasons Republicans were so reluctant to accept Donald Trumps nomination in 2016 is that he was quite obviously a crook. His business record reflects the often dubious norms of the milieu: using eminent domain to condemn the property of others; buying the good graces of politicians  including many Democrats  with donations, editorialized National Review. Marco Rubio lambasted him as a con artist. The Wall Street Journal editorialized about Trumps deep ties to the mafia and his fulsome praise of its work. (After Trump won the nomination, the Journal spiked a second editorial about his mob links.)

Ted Cruz warned that an upcoming probe into Trump University, a scam Trump used to bilk unsuspecting fans by promising business secrets, would expose him to legal sanction. If this man is the nominee, having the Republican nominee, on the stand in court, being cross-examined about whether he committed fraud, you dont think the mainstream media will go crazy on that?

The precise scenario Cruz predicted is finally occurring. The Republican response, however, is very different. The suspicion with which they once viewed Trumps business career has dissipated. He is no longer a sleazy mobbed-up con artist but an innocent victim of overzealous prosecutors. The word Republicans now use almost uniformly to describe the former presidents travails with the justice system is lawfare.

Lawfare means using the law as a weapon to get Trump. Conservatives ranging from the Trumpiest wing of the movement to the most Trump-skeptical  the ones who used to attack him as a crook  have all employed this term to describe the entire range of Trumps legal problems, from his New York fraud conviction to his indictments in New York and Atlanta to both of Jack Smiths federal cases.

The advantage of this catchall term is that it allows Trumps defenders to ignore the specifics of Trumps misconduct, or at least to analyze it in a highly selective way. There are indeed a couple instances in which Trump has faced legal challenges that are questionable (the attempt to disqualify him from the ballot based on the 14th Amendment) or downright weak (Alvin Braggs indictment over hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels). Conservatives tend to focus obsessively on these cases, and lawfare is a permission structure that allows them to use these cases to ignore or discredit the others, where Trumps behavior is impossible to defend.

It is a similar rhetorical strategy to the way Republicans dismissed the entire Russia scandal as Russiagate (or, in Trumps preferred phrasing, Russia, Russia, Russia). The Russia scandal consisted of innumerable strands and accusations, some of which (most famously the Steele dossier) did not pan out. But the sweeping frame allowed Trumps defenders to ignore the voluminous evidence of guilt. No need to defend Trump pardoning the campaign manager who had a Russian intelligence agent as a partner when you can just denounce Russiagate as a hoax.

By positing that Trump is the victim of a plot, all evidence of his guilt can be turned around into evidence of the sweeping nature of the conspiracy to smear him. Eventually, Republicans came to believe Trump had been the victim of a deep-state plot to frame him. Trump appointed a prosecutor, John Durham, to prove this conspiracy theory, only for Durhams efforts to fail.

The rights lawfare claim has some of the same elements. It posits that a wide array of jurists and prosecutors are working secretly in concert at Joe Bidens behest. Of course, this theory requires one to ignore massive amounts of criminal behavior by Trump. (Nobody forced him to, say, refuse to relinquish classified documents and then order a cover up!) It likewise requires you to ignore the fact that Trumps main legal antagonist, the Justice Department, has charged or investigated numerous Democrats, including the presidents son.

The common thread between the rights conspiratorial view of the Russia scandal and his legal problems is that Trump is, in fact, a very dishonest and corrupt person. The misconduct at the root of both dramas is not fantastical or unique. Russians have frequently manipulated or gained leverage over foreign politicians, though relatively few of them have been American. It is likewise not uncommon for politicians to commit crimes. The impression that all politicians are crooks  which Trump has exploited to justify his own corruption  is surely a wild exaggeration, but the stereotype exists in part because many of them are.

Whats unusual about Trump is not that a politician got into legal trouble, or even that a professional scammer went into politics, but that a political party allowed a crook to rise to its top. That, in turn, reveals the deeply unhealthy state of the GOP, not any extralegal steps being taken by his opponents.

Before he won the Republican nomination the first time, Republicans were perfectly aware that his decades of bilking customers and counterparties, lying to everybody, and surrounding himself with known criminals posed a series legal risk. Now that that risk has gone from theoretical to actual, and it is being shared by the Republican Party, they seem to believe its not fair to hold him legally accountable.

But no plot was necessary here. The law finally catching up to a lifelong crook is utterly predictable.
Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Ron DeSantiss yearslong legal battle against Disney appears to have reached an anticlimactic end.

Allies of the Florida governor on a local board reached a settlement with the Walt Disney Company over a protracted dispute that stemmed from DeSantiss takeover of the body two years ago.

The Orlando Sentinel reports that the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board declared a past agreement that shifted power away from the board to Disney ahead of DeSantiss planned takeover null and void. A plan from 2020 will be utilized instead with board members promising to consult the company when making any amendments. As part of the settlement, both sides agreed to drop their state lawsuits and counterclaims, including Disneys 2023 suit over access to public records and its appeal of a previously dismissed federal lawsuit that alleges DeSantis retaliated against the company.

Politico reports that the agreement comes just as the board approved the appointment of Stephanie Kopelousos to lead the group. Per the outlet, Kopelousos is seen by Florida political insiders as a qualified candidate whom Disney could work with owing to her background as DeSantiss director of legislative affairs.

The legal fight has its roots in 2022, when Disney came out against Floridas controversial Dont Say Gay law amid internal protests from its employees over the companys initially neutral stance. In response, DeSantis signed legislation that would dissolve what was then known as the Reedy Creek Improvement District, the special district that encompasses Walt Disney World that gives the company outsize control and self-governance over the region and its municipal services. The governor tied his dispute with Floridas most influential company into his ongoing war on woke, his heavy involvement in what students are allowed to learn in state schools. It was also a centerpiece of his unsuccessful presidential campaign.

As the governor handpicked his own allies to serve on the districts five-member board, the bodys outgoing members passed new measures stripping the board of many of its powers. Disney went on to sue DeSantis, alleging that the governor infringed upon the companys right to free speech by retaliating against it after announcing its stance on the legislation.
An arrest has been made in the homicide investigation surrounding the October 2023 death of a Phenix City woman.

The Phenix City Police Department arrested 38-year-old Navansley Vonquez Smith, of Phenix City, on Monday in connection to the investigation of the death 44-year-old Jennifer Marie Anderson, Central Alabama Crimestoppers announced in a press release on Tuesday.

On Oct. 27, police say investigators were called to Brickyard Road near Fontaine Road to investigate a deceased person. Anderson's body was found in an advanced stage of decomposition in a ditch next to the roadway, according to the release. She was listed as homeless by the PCPD.

The investigation remains ongoing. In February 2024, Crimestoppers announced that it was offering a $1,000 reward for information in the case.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact Investigation John Young with the PCPD at (334) 448-2794. Calls can also be made to Crimestoppers through their 24-hour tip line at 334-215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-STOP (251-7867) or download the P3-tips app. Make sure you receive a Tip ID and password in order to communicate with investigators in case there is a follow-up question. The tips can be made anonymously and could lead to a cash reward.
Washington L&I Fines Construction Company for Endangering Teen Workers

Rotschy LLC faces more than $200,000 in fines for violating child labor laws.

Rotschy LLCa construction company in Vancouver, Washingtonhas been fined $208,059 for violating child labor and safety regulations. This action follows an incident in the summer of 2023 where a 16-year-old employee suffered injuries while operating a walk-behind trencher on a construction site, resulting in the loss of both legs.

According to a release dated March 24, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) initially imposed a $156,259 penalty on Rotschy for failing to ensure proper training and experience for workers operating dangerous equipment. The recent addition of $51,800 in fines pertains specifically to child labor law infringements.

There are some jobs that state law says minor workers just cant do, for their own safety, Bryan Templeton, manager of L&Is Employment Standards Program, said in a statement. But the law can only prevent tragic injuries like this when theyre followed. Rotschy knew the rules but still put seven different teenage workers in harms way nearly three dozen times.

L&Is investigations revealed that Rotschy permitted seven minors to use or be dangerously close to heavy machinery on 35 occasions. Additionally, the company failed to provide legally mandated meal breaks 45 times for 11 minor workers and allowed eight young employees to work longer than state laws permit during school days more than 150 times. In one case, a minor's workday began before 5 a.m.

L&I had already cited Rotschy with a willful serious workplace safety and health violation in December 2023 for the same incident. Following the latest findings, L&I has suspended Rotschys student learner exemption and has already received payment for the fines. However, the company has appealed Decembers safety citation.
Crude oil prices were in the red today after the Energy Information Administration reported an inventory build of 3.2 million barrels for the week to March 22.

This compared with a draw of 2 million barrels for the previous week, when the EIA also estimated a sizeable draw in gasoline inventories, which helped support prices.

This week, the API inventory report that came out on Tuesday pushed prices lower as it estimated an inventory build in crude oil of over 9.3 million barrels for the week to March 22.

For the week to March 22, the EIA reported more mixed changes in fuels.

Gasoline stocks added 1.3 million barrels over the reporting period, with production averaging 9.2 million bpd. This compared with a draw of 3.3 million barrels for the previous week, when production stood at a daily average of 9.6 million barrels.

In middle distillates, the authority estimated an inventory decline of 1.2 million barrels for the week to March 22, with production averaging 4.8 million barrels daily.

This compared with a modest inventory build of 600,000 barrels for the previous week, when production averaged 4.7 million barrels daily.

Oil prices that fell on Tuesday, meanwhile, continued depressed on Wednesday despite expectations that OPEC+ will leave its production policy untouched at it next meeting in early April.

"A sharp rise in U.S. crude inventories and expectations for a potential inaction by OPEC+ in its output policy next week saw further unwinding in oil prices in todays session, as profit-taking accelerates following a strong rally in mid-March," IG analyst Jun Rong Yeap told Reuters.

We should see a slightly tighter market in the second quarter, given OPEC+s voluntary cuts are being extended, Sean Lim, analyst with Malaysian RHB Investment Bank, told Bloomberg. He noted, however, that prices were getting less sensitive to news from OPEC+.

What they are getting more sensitive to, on the other hand, is suggestions of tighter supply on the horizon, including as a result of OPEC+ action. In the early months of the cuts most traders assumed there was plenty of supply around to offset them but now analysts are starting to predict a deficit, including the International Energy Agency.

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The tightening sanctions on Russia's oil exports are raising freight costs for moving Russian crude and having India scrutinize deliveries to avoid opaque trades. The U.S. upped the ante in the sanctions game last month, and Russia may now have to work out new routes and ways to circumvent sanctions at a cost.

The sanctions' estimated direct cost to deliver Russian cargoes now is around 6-8% of the price of a barrel of crude leaving the western ports in Russia for Asia, according to data from commodity price reporting agency Argus crunched by Bloomberg.

Argus has estimated that shipping a barrel of Russian crude from a port in the Baltic Sea to China has cost around $14.50 since December, with more than half of this per-barrel cost attributable to the Western sanctions.

The likely directly-related-to-sanctions cost to hire tankers to transport Russian oil is estimated at about $773 million since the end of December 2023, based on shipments tracking by Bloomberg.

"Whether this turns into actual supply losses will depend on how quickly workarounds are found for freight issues and whether Russian sellers are willing to deepen discounts," Richard Bronze, head of geopolitics at Energy Aspects, told Bloomberg.

Russia needs to find buyers for the crude oil that was left stranded after the U.S. slapped sanctions on Russia's state tanker operator Sovcomflot last month. China has come to the rescuemost cargoes previously bound for India are now either discharging or heading to private refiners in the world's top crude importer. Related: Oilprice Exclusive: An Interview With OPEC Sec. Gen. al-Ghais

The U.S. levied new sanctions against Russia last month on the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and in response to the death of opposition politician Alexey Navalny.

Among the 500 targets of the new sanctions, the U.S. Treasury and State are targeting Sovcomflot and more than a dozen tankers linked to the Russian state-owned firm.

Stranded cargoes of Russia's Sokol crude, previously headed to India but idled off South Korea and Singapore since the U.S. stepped up sanctions enforcement, started to make their way to China earlier this month, beginning to clear a backlog of more than 10 million barrels of the grade sitting on tankers at sea.

With Indian refiners shying away from the Sokol grade, Russia is now looking for alternative buyers for its crude. Some barrels appear to have been placed with private Chinese refiners, often referred to as teapots, while others wait for other takers.

Nearly half of China's Sokol imports in March have been from sanctioned tankers diverted from India, Armen Azizian, Senior Oil Risk Analyst at Vortexa, wrote in an exclusive report this week.

On the other hand, Russian crude exports on Sovcomflot's fleet to India have dropped by 300,000 barrels per day (bpd) from the 2023 average as exports on Sovcomflot's fleet shift towards China, Vortexa noted.

All Indian refiners are now reportedly refusing to take Russian crude transported on vessels of Sovcomflot to avoid running afoul of the stricter enforcement of the U.S. sanctions on Russia.

All Indian refiners are now carefully checking the ownership chain of every tanker carrying Russian crude to ensure the vessels are not affiliated with Sovcomflot or other entities on the U.S. sanctions list, unnamed sources with knowledge of the matter told Bloomberg last week.

Russia could also move a lot of its oil with the "shadow fleet" of tankers it has amassed over the past two years to continue selling crude and products to willing customers under the radar.

However, with India  Russia's second-largest crude buyer after China  more careful to avoid fallout from the stepped-up sanctions, Moscow will have to find new customers for some of its barrels, or see its revenues from oil diminished.

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Russia has admitted as much, with central bank governor Elvira Nabiullina saying last week, "After the decline at the beginning of the year, exports have been rebounding, driven by the increase in oil prices. However, secondary sanctions hinder this process."

Payments are also pressured by sanctions, the Bank of Russia governor said.

"Due to sanctions, there are certainly difficulties with conducting cross-border payments," Nabiullina was quoted as saying by Russia's TASS news agency.

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After months of skepticism, traders seem to have finally realized that OPEC+ is serious about keeping crude oil supply constrained.

Per the latest weekly data from Reuters, as reported by market analyst John Kemp, traders are buying oil at the fastest rate since 2020. And oil prices are on the rise.

Of course, OPEC is not the only factor behind the change in sentiment among traders. Refinery disruptions in Russia resulting from Ukrainian drone attacks have also had a lot to do with the growing bullishness on oil markets. Recent reports that the U.S. had urged the Ukrainians to stop targeting Russian refineries and the Ukrainians' refusal to do so probably reinforced the effect, too.

There is also the improvement in analysts' outlooks for the global economy. The picture seems to no longer be as bleak as it was last year, so oil demand projections are improving. A month ago, the International Monetary Fund revised upwards its forecast for the global economy, and so did S&P Global Market Intelligence. So traders are once again buying oil in significant volumes.

According to the Reuters numbers, in the week ending March 19, traders bought the equivalent of 140 million barrels across the six most traded crude and fuel contracts. Crude was the most bought, with 57 million barrels in West Texas Intermediate changing hands during that week along with 55 million barrels of Brent crude. Related: Mexicos Oil Giant Delays Platform Repairs Despite Methane Leaks

"Escalating geopolitical tension, coupled with a rise in attacks on energy facilities in Russia and Ukraine, alongside receding ceasefire hopes in the Middle East, raised concern over global oil supply," Nissan Securities analyst Hiroyuki Kikukawa told Reuters in comments on the latest movements in prices.

Yet while geopolitical factors play a big role in day-to-day price swings, the OPEC+ cuts normally have a longer-term effectonce it kicks in, and this time, it took a while.

Saudi Arabia first announced in July that it would reduce the amount of oil it supplies to global markets. Some saw it as insignificant, while others dismissed it as a desperate attempt to prop up the unproppable as prices remained stubbornly stuck within a narrow range below $80 per barrel.

Yet later, the rest of OPEC and its Russia-led partners also joined the Saudisand prices still remained locked in their range. The factors that kept them there were the same that are now fueling the rally: a pessimistic outlook for the global economy, geopolitical tensions that weren't affecting oil supply, and general skepticism about demand in the era of the energy transition.

The tide only began to turn this year as the outlook for global GDP began to change, with the first data about 2023 starting to come in. In some places, things were as bad as they seemed, such as the eurozone. In other parts of the world, however, such as the United States, the economy performed better than most expected, sparking hope that this year could be better still. And that shifted traders' attention from demand to supply.

There had been warnings about shrinking oil inventories amid the OPEC+ cuts but those got little attention until the change in economic outlook. Now, there's suddenly concern about a deficit that even the IEA acknowledged, after a month ago confidently stating that the oil market was comfortably supplied.

So now prices are on the rise again and Morgan Stanley has already forecast that Brent will hit $90 per barrel later in the year. "Every month that OPEC discipline remains in-place, Brent flat price will likely continue to catch up with where inventories and time spreads already are," the bank said. It's safe to say that OPEC discipline will remain in place for quite a while yet.

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Europe is set to exit the winter heating season with another record-high level of natural gas inventories, which could spare the EU price spikes and another energy crisis next winter, according to analysts.

As of March 25, a week before the end of the major gas withdrawal season on March 31, EU gas storage sites were 59% full, per data from Gas Infrastructure Europe.

Although the volume of 100% full storage sites accounts for only about a quarter of EU consumption during the winter, the high stock levels at the start of the refill season in April would make it easier for Europe to reach in advance, again, its target to have capacity 90% full by November 1.

This year, however, could be the last for Russian pipeline supply via Ukraine as the multi-year transit deal ends on December 31. Both Ukraine and the EU have signaled they wouldnt extend the transit agreement, which puts some central European EU members such as Austria and Slovakia in the most vulnerable position for gas supply.

Austrian Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler said last month that the country is looking to reduce its dependence on Moscow, including by seeking to end a long-term deal that Austria-based energy giant OMV has with Gazprom.

Our goal is: Ditch Russian natural gas. As a sovereign country, we cannot accept this dependence - the share of gas imports from Russia is increasing instead of decreasing, Gewessler said.

Thanks to full storage ahead of the 2023/2024 winter, milder weather, and steady inflow of LNG, European benchmark natural gas prices slumped in February to a three-year lowbelow the levels from before the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Gas prices in Europe could plunge as low as $6.70 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) this summer thanks to a mild winter and ample gas inventories, Wood Mackenzie said in a report earlier this month.

Six analyst forecasts compiled by Reuters see the Dutch TTF futures, the benchmark for Europes gas trading, in a range of $31-$40 (29-37.50 euros) per megawatt-hour (MWh) for the next winter. This compares with Wednesdays price of around $29 (26.87 euros) per MWh for the April futures (equivalent to around $8/MMBtu), and $33.87 (31.32 euros) per MWh for winter 2024/25.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Two environmentalist groups have challenged in court French oil major TotalEnergies plans to drill five wells offshore South Africa. The groups seek to stop the drilling, claiming that the environmental impact assessment was not done according to requirements.

This is not the first time activists are challenging oil exploration in South Africa. It wont be the last. But the French supermajor does not seem too bothered by it. Neither does it seem too bothered, for now, about other challenges it may encounter should the results of its drilling campaign in the country be fruitful. TotalEnergies either likes risk or it knows something about global oil demand that activists dont.

TotalEnergies acquired a 33% stake in an exploration block offshore South Africa earlier in March. QatarEnergy also bought a stake in Block 3B/4B, which happens to be adjacent to the Venus prospect in Namibian waters, where TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy made a significant discovery. In fact, it was the most significant discovery made in the Orange Basin that Namibia and South Africa share.

With 3 billion barrels tapped in Venus, TotalEnergies seems to be doing what any other supermajor would do in these circumstances: an oil industry version of the follow the vein rule. Yet this is happening in the context of ever-growing pressure on that industry to give it all up and start making wind turbines, and also in the context of an underdeveloped oil and gas legislative regime in South Africaand rife corruption. Related: Baltimore Coal Exports Blocked After Bridge Collapse

Over the past three years or so, oil and gas companies, including the supermajors, have become extremely cautious. They also became extremely frugal despite their record profits in 2022. Low-risk assets were prioritized, and high-risk ones were put up for sale. With activists breathing down their necks and governments using windfall profit taxes as a means of punishing the industry for being what it is, it was difficult to be generous and reckless with the investments.

Yet, from a certain perspective, this is exactly what TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy are doing right now: being reckless by expanding in a region with no oil discoveries of any significance to date and a vibrant climate activist community that already has one scalp under its belt: back in 2022, activists got a South African court to revoke Shells exploration license offshore Wild Coast.

There is also no regulatory clarity because the South African government has been slow in adopting a Petroleum Resources Development Bill, blaming the delays on those same activists that won over Shell, per a review of the South African oil situation by Energy Intelligence. There is also the issue of corruption, but against the above background, this may actually be a relatively minor nuisance: corruption is popular across the world, and chances are TotalEnergies knows how to handle it.

Yet the question remains why it would be risking activist wrath, court bans, and, ultimately, the possibility that the Orange Basins oil and gas abundance does not extend all the way to Block3B/4B. The most likely answer is one that would anger those activists even more. The world will continue needing a lot of crude oil in the coming decades, and Africa is the one place that still has massive untapped resources.

TotalEnergies already struck some of those resourcesgas condensateoffshore South Africaback in 2020. In fact, it made two discoveries in the Luiperd prospect, which held a lot of promise for supplying the domestic market with gas.

It would have been a major change for the better for South Africa, which has been suffering chronic blackouts and whose dependence on coal for power generation makes a very bad impression in the West. So bad, that the West has offered the country $8.5 billion to ditch coal. Yet the only way South Africa can do this is by first finding a reliable substitute.

Per the Energy Intelligence review, the Luiperd gas project basically fell through because the government could not agree on a price for the gas with TotalEnergies and its partners in the development. Corruption and bureaucratic hurdles also contributed, Energy Intelligence noted, citing one investor involved in the project as saying that Even if the fundamentals and the rhetoric suggest gas is needed as a transition fuel, personal interests aligned with coal and diesel have not been supportive.

Yet despite all these challenges, TotalEnergies is expanding in South Africa. The company does not have a reputation for being reckless with its investments. Quite the contrary, it has been really careful where it spends its money. Now, it has decided to spend more of it on exploration in South Africa.

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Perhaps the Orange Basin oil wealth extends into South African waters at the same high rate indeed. Or perhaps the risk of finding out if this is the case is worth taking because oil demand will remain strong enough in the observable future to justify the exploration push offshore South Africa.

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Tensions between Argentina and Venezuela have worsened after a diplomatic spat between the two South American nations.

Argentina has accused Venezuela of cutting the power supply to its embassy in Caracas after its diplomats invited Venezuelas opposition leaders due to concerns about the deterioration of the institutional situation and the acts of harassment and persecution directed against political figures in Venezuela.

In a statement released on Monday by the Office of Argentine President Javier Milei, Argentina has lamented that the embassys power was turned off in a deliberate action that endangers the safety of Argentine diplomatic personnel and Venezuelan citizens under protection.

Tensions between Buenos Aires and Caracas have been simmering after Venezuelas socialist President Nicolas Maduro criticized far-right Mileis election victory in November last year, claiming the neo-Nazi extreme right had won power.

The situation reached fever pitch a couple of weeks ago after Argentina announced diplomatic actions against Venezuela following Maduros ban on Argentine-licensed aircraft from accessing Venezuelan airspace.

Whereas Venezuela's crude oil production has declined sharply from 3.2 million b/d in 2000 to 735,000 b/d in September 2023 mainly due to sanctions and poor maintenance, Argentinas crude output has been increasing with Milei vowing to shake up the system.

At a time when a wave of nationalization is sweeping through Latin America, Milei has proposed to privatize 41 state-owned companies, including national oil firm YPF, nuclear power company Nucleoelectrica Argentina and energy infrastructure player Energia Argentina. He is also looking to unshackle crude exports and leave local fuel prices at the mercy of market forces.

Energy prices will couple with international values. The most radical change is eliminating the requirement to satisfy the needs of the local market  its a historic rupture with a century of Argentine tradition, Juan Jose Carbajales, energy consultant and former oil and gas undersecretary, wrote in a report.

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Fitch Solutions has reported that Argentinas crude oil production in 2023 grew by 8.7% y-o-y to ~640,000 b/d bolstered by pipeline expansion.

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Baltimore Ports coal exports are likely to be blocked for weeks after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, according to a Pennsylvania coal trading firm.

The bridge collapsed early on Tuesday after a cargo ship lost power and slammed into the construction, which crumbled within seconds and will disrupt navigation near the Baltimore port, which is one of the biggest coal export terminals in America.

Baltimore is the nations second-largest coal exporting port after Norfolk, Virginia, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). In 2022, about one-fifth of U.S. coal exports left through Baltimore.

The port of Baltimore is also one of the 20 largest ports in the U.S. and handles both coal and petroleum products.

Following the bridge collapse, up to 2.5 million tons of coal exports from Baltimore could be blocked for up to six weeks, Ernie Thrasher, CEO at Pennsylvania coal trading firm Xcoal Energy & Resources, told Bloomberg.

Youll see some diversion to other ports but the other ports are pretty busy, Thrasher added.

Theres a limit on how much you can divert, said the executive, whose firm works with several coal suppliers.

Globally, the disrupted exports are unlikely to have a huge impact on coal prices, but many coal cargoes from Baltimore are typically headed for India, so there the impact could be felt along the supply chain, Thrasher told Bloomberg.

At any rate, the bridge collapse has already disrupted coal shipments and delivery times.

For example, rail company CSX, which owns the Curtis Bay coal pier in Baltimore, told Reuters on Tuesday that existing coal customers should expect potential shipment delays.

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Coal producer CONSOL Energy said vessel access in and out of the CONSOL Marine Terminal, located in the Port of Baltimore, has been delayed. As of Tuesday morning, the company did not have a definitive timeline of when vessel access or normal operations will resume.

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A safety probe into a Baltimore bridge collapse will determine whether contaminated fuel played a part in the accident whereby a giant ship lost power and crashed into the bridge forcing it to collapse.

Early investigations suggest that the Singapore-flagged Dali cargo ship was setting off from the Port of Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, when it apparently lost power and crashed into a support pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

The lights on the Dali, a 948-foot-long container ship capable of carrying 95,000 tonnes of cargo, began to flicker about an hour into the trip, prompting a harbor pilot and assistant to report power issues and a loss of propulsion.

The bridge collapsed on impact and tumbled into the Patapsco River, with the crew managing to send a last-minute mayday call to the police just in time to stop traffic. Emergency responders rescued two people from the water while another six remain missing.

An oil executive has told Fox News theres some validity to reports that contaminated fuel potentially caused the ships engine failure and triggered the accident.

"It's just stealing money, the companies selling them. If nobody's watching closely enough, they'll give them contaminated fuel," United Refining Company CEO John Catsimatidis said in response to a contributor asking how the dirty fuel could get onto the ship.

"Contaminated fuel is being sold to the [New York] schools and sold to the MTA when the MTA or the schools are not watching closely enough. You know, you give them 80 percent real fuel and 20 percent garbage. And the FBI should be looking into that," he added.

Supply chain management company Flexport has warned of a vicious feedback loop and supply chain disruptions following the collapse of the Baltimore Bridge.

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Its not just the port of Baltimore thats going to be impacted, Ryan Petersen, the companys CEO has said. According to Petersen, the ports closure in Baltimore, Maryland, was just one factor that will contribute to shipping delays.

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The Netherlands' five largest pension funds have said they are willing to invest billions in the countrys renewable energy sector and the electricity grid. The funds, with a combined 900 billion euros ($975 billion) in assets, have offered to help with finances and expertise in the nations electric grid expansion and sustainable heating projects.

"We want to make a bigger impact, we can and want to invest more in the Dutch energy transition," the funds said in a letter addressed to the countrys political parties looking to form the next government.

Pension funds across the globe are becoming increasingly engaged in the clean energy transition and frequently oppose the fossil fuel sector.

Four years ago, New York Citys Mayor Bill de Blasio and former Comptroller Scott M. Stringer announced that the citys $226B pension fund would divest the majority of its fossil fuel investments and cut ties with other companies that have been contributing to global warming.

New York State officials are yet to make a final decision whether to sell their $1 billion in investments in major U.S. oil and gas companies, including Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE:XOM) and Chevron Corp. (NYSE:CVX) in what could be one of the biggest divestment drives by a pension fund. The fund has already sold off most assets in coal and Canadas oil sands, although it still holds its $1.5 million investment in Arch Resources (NYSE:ARCH), the second largest U.S. coal producer.

Last year, Norways largest pensions manager, KLP, blacklisted Gulf companies listed in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait due to human rights violations and also divested from Saudi Aramco due to climate risks

Meanwhile, last year, Norways giant sovereign wealth fund supported proposals by ExxonMobil and Chevron shareholders at their annual general meeting to introduce emissions targets.

With $1.4 trillion in assets, Norway's wealth fund is the largest in the world, and the sixth-largest investor in Exxon with a nearly 1.2% stake.

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Russia is boosting exploration for oil, gas, and minerals on its continental shelf as it has launched the first comprehensive geological and drilling studies in 30 years, according to its Federal Agency for Mineral Resources.

The agency, also known as Rosnedra, operates 190 sites nationwide between Kaliningrad and Russias Far East, with projects ranging from deep drilling for oil and gas to geophysical exploration of solid minerals by drones, the head of the agency Yevgeny Petrov told Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in a meeting.

For the first time in 30 years, we have taken a systemic approach to shelf exploration, begun working on the shelf, and drilled four wells. These are truly significant geological results, Petrov was quoted as saying by Russian news agency Interfax.

The fundamental geological task of evaluating the basins' oil and gas reserves has been accomplished, the official added.

Oil and gas volumes that have been added to resources increased by 20% in 2023 compared to 2022, he noted.

Despite the foreign media claims about stagnation in our mining and geological prospecting sector, I can say that the sector is growing steadily and there is no decline in funding, first and foremost by mineral developers, Petrov was quoted as saying.

Russia is now on its own in exploration after nearly all Western companies abandoned Russian operations following the invasion of Ukraine.

One notable exception is SLB, the biggest oilfield services firm in the world, which doesnt plan to quit Russia, chief executive Olivier Le Peuch told the Financial Times in an interview published on Monday.

Pressure has mounted on companies, especially in the oil and gas industry, to withdraw from Russia after the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

When we decide, we will make it public if we need to. But now, there is no decision yet, SLBs Le Peuch told FT.

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The United States and South Korea have joined forces to try and stop oil shipments to North Korea that contravene UN sanctions.

According to Reuters, the team effort was dubbed Enhanced Disruption Task Force and involved more than 30 officials from the two countries.

The news follows a report in the Financial Times from earlier this week that said Russia was shipping fuels directly to North Korea in violation of UN sanctions, which, the report said, were nearing collapse for lack of ways to enforce them effectively.

The report cited information from defense think tank the Royal United Services Institute, which cited satellite data as showing at least five North Korean tankers traveling to a Russian Far East port to load refined oil products.

These oil deliveries constitute a full-frontal assault against the sanctions regime, which is now on the brink of collapse, said the former coordinator of the UN panel in charge of enforcing the sanctions, as quoted by the FT.

"Oil is an essential resource for North Korea's nuclear and missile development and military posture," said the South Korean foreign ministry in a statement this week, as quoted by Reuters.

The sanctions do allow for a certain amount of crude oil and fuels to enter the country but these are capped at minuscule amounts: 4 million barrels of crude annually and 500,000 barrels of fuels.

Reuters also cites satellite data as showing North Korean tanker calling at more than one Russian port in the past few weeks.

Per the new report, the U.S. and South Korean government officials discussed ways of interfering with the direct oil supply coming into North Korea from Russia but no details were made public about these ways.

Meanwhile, worry in the West is growing that Russia may veto a UN Security Council proposal to extend the mandate of a UN panel that monitors the implementation of the North Korean sanctions.

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Tourism thrives in Guangxi's Xinhe township

People's Daily Online) 10:45, March 27, 2024

Photo shows the beautiful scenery of Buhua village, Xinhe township, Jiangzhou district, Chongzuo city, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Photo/Huang Chengcheng)

"All of our 60 rooms are booked every holiday," said Zhou Zhenxi, who operates a cluster of B&B hotels in Xinhe township, Jiangzhou district, Chongzuo city, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Several years ago, Zhou decided to work with several leading B&B hotels in the country to build the first cluster of B&Bs in Xinhe township, which is known for sugarcane production. The average per capita output of sugarcane in the township with a population of 30,000 exceeds 40 tonnes.

The township is now also home to a cluster of high-end B&B hotels. The development of the B&B industry is the epitome of its tourism sector.

When Jiangzhou district was listed as a demonstration zone for improving the living environment in Guangxi in June 2019, Xinhe township launched a three-year action plan to comprehensively improve the living environment in villages, giving them a brand new look, said Chen Weifeng, Party chief of the township.

Now, the once dirty and disorderly villages along the Heishui River in the township have become popular photo spots. "Many tourists outside our village visit every day. They admire us for our happy life," said Liu Xinmin, a resident of Xincun village in the township.

With abundant water resources, including the Heishui River, Xinhe township is located along a popular rural tourism route and a China-Vietnam cross-border tourism route.

"We decided to leverage our advantages in local resources to build the Xinhe tourist resort," said Zhang Ling, head of the bureau of culture and tourism of Jiangzhou district.

The district has attached great importance to the development of the B&B industry, according to Li Honglan, head of Jiangzhou district. It established a leading group, organized multiple research trips to areas with a thriving B&B sector, and issued relevant management measures and incentive support standards, providing sound policy guarantees and financial support to develop the sector.

A tourist tries to make brown sugar at a scenic spot in Xinhe township, Jiangzhou district, Chongzuo city, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Photo/Wei Fanglan)

Focusing on the development of the Xinhe tourist resort, Jiangzhou district has implemented six projects for the B&B industry, with four projects being put into service, attracting seven B&B hotels.

Once all the projects are completed, they will provide 334 rooms, capable of receiving 120,000 visitors annually and generating an annual operating revenue of 67 million yuan ($9.3 million). They will also provide over 330 direct jobs, generating direct and indirect employment for around 1,000 people.

Leveraging its pristine natural environment and reasonable planning for the tourism industry, Xinhe township received over 1 million tourist visits in 2023, generating tourism revenue of more than 200 million yuan.

Thanks to the development of the tourism sector, farmers who once relied on farming for a living have become flower growers, tour guides, cleaners, and hotel staff, receiving considerable incomes.

"More than 90 percent of our company's over 100 employees are local villagers," said Zhou, adding that the cluster of B&B hotels has driven the development of tourism-related sectors like catering, transportation, and accommodations, allowing villagers to earn money near their homes.

"I work as a cleaner at a B&B hotel, earning a monthly salary of 2,500 yuan. I also receive rental fees from land transfers, dividends, and subsidies. My annual income tops 60,000 yuan," said villager Zhao Yueqiu.

In 2023, the annual turnover of B&B hotels in Buhua village in the township stood at 1.1 million yuan, said Yang Jing, first secretary of the village.

Yang added that a B&B hotel project jointly invested by the village and villagers is being decorated, which is expected to generate an additional income of around 100,000 yuan for the village this year.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Via Metal Miner

Will there be a rebound in Chinese nickel purchases in 2024? Furthermore, will it serve to bolster the market in the near term? Following a lengthy period of de-stocking last year, these are just some of the questions with implications for the global nickel price.

As the world moves toward cleaner energy sources, certain minerals and metals are now deemed critical to the transition. As a key ingredient in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, nickel is one of several elements under the spotlight.

On average, most studies project a 60% surge in the demand for battery metals over the next twenty years. Meanwhile, anticipated data forecasts that the global primary nickel market will sustain a surplus from 2023 to 2027, culminating in a projected surplus of 27,000 metric tons by the end of 2027. Analysts say much of this shift stems from Chinas expanding refining capacity.

According to experts, the significant increase in supply projected for 2024, driven by heightened production in Indonesia and China, will primarily result in price reductions. As Chinas domestic refining capacity grows, the nickel market continues to brace for a new equilibrium: balancing supply with evolving demand.

Last year, the conversion of Class-2 material into Class-1, particularly nickel sulfate into nickel cathode, led to a glut in the Chinese market. Major players like Tsingshan Group and Huayou Cobalt stepped on the gas pedal and increased production, leading to a global market shift and a fall in nickel prices on both the London Metal Exchange (LME) and Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE).

Indonesias Growing Control Over the Global Nickel Price

In Indonesia, the worlds largest nickel producer, this surge continues to spark political, environmental, and ethical dilemmas. The implications of this oversupply are far-reaching, potentially affecting prices, market dynamics, and future approaches to production. In a strategic move, Indonesia imposed a permanent ban on nickel ore exports about four years ago.

At the time, the goal was to draw foreign investments to bolster domestic processing capabilities and foster downstream industries. The ban successfully attracted foreign investors, predominantly from China, who constructed smelters and significantly boosted exports. This eventually led to a staggering 250% increase in Indonesias nickel production since 2021.

The Indonesian supply surge resulted in several production cuts or shutdowns worldwide. Meanwhile, one report in The Hindu BusinessLine states that the influx of material also sent nickel prices plummeting to near three-year lows. Of late, quotes for the three-month nickel contract stood at U.S. $17,670 a ton, a drastic drop from the U.S. $30,000 a ton seen in January 2023.

The silver lining is that the prices are about 8% higher they were at the beginning of 2024. In 2023, nickel prices fell about 47%, making it the second worse year after 2008. Of course, the reason for the steep drop was the supply surge from Indonesia.

Potential Production Cuts May Reverse Falling Prices

According to a recent Reuters report, both China and Indonesia may decrease nickel production by a minimum of 100,000 metric tons in 2024. The decision stems from producers efforts to mitigate losses amid a decline in nickel prices, which are vital for stainless steel manufacturing and EVs. They suggest that additional cuts may be necessary for producers to elevate prices and alleviate the market surplus, rather than merely halting losses.

However, other experts claim the situation on the ground may change quickly once the stockpiles maintained by Indonesian smelters deplete. For instance, a Bloomberg report quoting analysts at Macquarie Group Ltd said the depletion and the prospect of a resurgence in Chinese purchasing after a prolonged period of de-stocking last year could drive nickel into a supply deficit by the end of 2024.

As per information provided by GlobalData and based on referencing data from the U.S. Geological Survey, global nickel reserves currently sit at about 102 MT. The main reservoirs are in Indonesia and Australia, which total about 41% of the global supply. Following these nations are Brazil (15.7%), Russia (7.3%), and New Caledonia (7%).

What Should the U.S. Do?

An article from The United States Institute Of Peace says that the U.S. should tie up with the private sector in Indonesia to build processing plants following the latter countrys ban on raw nickel exports. This investment will ensure more control over labor and human rights standards and stronger ties to the U.S. in the face of Chinese investment.

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The writers also suggest that the United States should consider the Philippines as a key strategic ally for the Minerals Security Partnership, particularly regarding investments in clean technology. The U.S. already identified the Philippines as one of six nations slated for support under the CHIPS and Science Act, which aims to enhance U.S. semiconductor manufacturing.

However, its also important to acknowledge the Philippines history of mining-related conflicts. Therefore, the United States must make sure to address issues thoroughly amidst ongoing diplomatic discussions regarding clean energy with the Philippines.

By Sohrab Darabshaw

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
The police raid of the Stonewall Inn didn't go as expected.

It was 1969 and members of New York City's LGBTQ community were fed up with the arrests and harassment that had become common place.

Only on this night, police faced unprecedented resistance. Patrons and onlookers fought back and for days Greenwich Village was a riot zone that ultimately helped spark the modern LGBTQ civil rights movement and place the Stonewall on the National Register of Historic Places.

But eight years before Stonewall there was the Black Nite Uprising in downtown Milwaukee.

Only instead of police, it was servicemen who thought they could intimidate and beat some of the customers of the gay bar, located in the midst of a series of abandoned buildings that were slated to be torn down to make way for what is now Interstate 794.

Led by Josie Carter, a 23-year-old who identified as a woman, the servicemen found themselves out matched. Customers fought back. And when police arrived, the only arrests were those of the bloodied servicemen.

And now, just like Stonewall, the site of the melee is getting its own historical marker to commemorate one of the early victories for the emerging LGBTQ rights movement in the U.S. The marker is part of a new initiative by the Wisconsin Historical Society and the William G. Pomeroy Foundation to recognize the often times hidden history of marginalized people in the state.

"By the time of Stonewall, Milwaukee had something like 36 gay bars and its first gay rights organization," said Michail Takach, 50, a researcher and writer with the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project. "Things accelerated after the Black Nite. It just had to be such a flash of amazement that there were enough gay people to have their own spaces and that gay people didn't just get beat up and and beat down. They could fight back."

In 1982, Wisconsin became the first state in the nation to pass a law that made it illegal for state or private businesses to discriminate based on sexual orientation in employment and housing. The bi-partisan effort was led by Madison state representative David Clarenbach and signed by then Gov. Lee Dryfus. It would be nine more years before another state would adopt such protections, according to documents from the Milwaukee Public Library.

The site of the Black Nite has been a vacant lot for nearly 60 years but is now poised for redevelopment so it's unclear when the marker will be installed at the corner of St. Paul and Plankington avenues, just a few blocks from the Milwaukee Public Market.

But 13 others have already been installed around the state or are in the process of being developed, thanks to the Pomeroy Foundation, which works on a national level to fund historical marker projects and in 2021 granted the Historical Society $75,190 for more markers. The final phase of the project will fund another 12 markers in which community groups from around the state are being asked to submit applications with a focus on under represented people. They can include historical events or people related to African Americans, disability rights, Hmong, Latinos, the LGBTQ community, tribal nations and women.

Applications are due to the Historical Society by April 30 with the hopes of having markers installed in 2025. The Historical Society has been installing markers since 1951 and has studied its more than 600 markers scattered around the state to see where gaps exist in telling the state's stories.

"The markers are such a unique program because it is community led," said Mallory Hanson, the WHS's statewide services coordinator and who works with the markers program. "It's a wonderful way for organizations to share their stories and tell about events, individuals an anything that can resonate for that local, state or national significance to our state's diverse history."

In 2022, we told the story of one of the markers, placed outside the clubhouse of the Lake Ivanhoe Property Owners Association. The 46-acre Walworth County lake was home to the state's first Black-owned resort property and by the 1960s the development consisted of about 30 homes, most owned by African Americans looking for lake-life-living within a short drive of their Chicago area homes.

Another marker installed in 2022 was on Dairy Lane in State Fair Park in West Allis. It identifies the site of where ancestors of the Ho-Chunk constructed burial sites for loved ones in the form of mounds. The earthworks are among the last remaining in Milwaukee County and mark the location of a larger mound group that has been destroyed.

In far northern Wisconsin, a marker installed in October on Madeline Island in Lake Superior replaces a marker installed in 1961 that said French explorers had discovered the island. The new historical marker, which bears "Mooningwanekaaning," the Ojibwe name for Madeline Island, was developed using input from the Bad River and Red Cliff Ojibwe communities and recognizes the central role of Indigenous peoples in the islands history.

The Anishinaabeg have called this island home since time immemorial, and it is important that their story is shared today and for future generations, Christian Overland, the Historical Society's director & CEO, said at the time.

Back in Milwaukee, a series of nine markers will help tell the stories of the Civil Rights marches. One has already been installed at the site of the now removed St. Boniface Catholic Church that was home to a predominantly Black congregation and which served as a hub during the 200 consecutive days of open housing marches from fall 1967 to spring 1968.

Three others are scheduled to be installed this spring. The 16th Street Viaduct marker will commemorate marches across the bridge in 1967 from the predominantly Black north side to the white south side. Marchers faced thousands of rioters who harassed and attacked them as they walked to Kosciuszko Park. The next night, the NAACP Youth Council held another march and faced up to 13,000 counter-protesters. The night ended with dozens of arrests and injuries but the marches sparked a movement that lasted for 200 consecutive nights, forcing the city to confront segregation.

Markers will also be placed at both the 5th Street and 15th Street Freedom House locations. In 1966, the Youth Council established a headquarters at 2026 N. 5th Street and in 1967 added a second house on 15th Street to expand operations. The homes are where the Youth Council planned marches and protests, including one focused on the Eagles Clubs whites-only policy.

Markers help communities tell their stories," said Bill Pomeroy, founder and trustee of the Pomeroy Foundation. They play an important role by preserving history, educating the public, encouraging pride of place, and promoting historic and cultural tourism.

___
Middle schoolers throughout the Omaha area have been learning about the Holocaust  and much more through the story of a child prodigy who dreamed about becoming a concert pianist.

Her name was Lisa Jura, and in 1938, her parents put her on a Kindertransport from Vienna to London amid Nazi attacks on Austria. They believed music would give their 14-year-old daughter the strength to survive until the family was reunited.

Hold on to your music, and I will be with you always, Lisas mother, Malka (who also was her piano teacher), told her before she got on the train.

Lisa never saw her parents again. Throughout the war, she lived in London with other young refugees and, through her music, inspired them not only to survive but also to dream. Her parents perished in the Auschwitz concentration camp.

Daughter Mona Golabek wrote about Lisas story in her book, The Children of Willesden Lane. Like Malka before her, Lisa was her daughters piano teacher, and Mona followed them into the world of piano performance.

Mona created a foundation, Hold on to Your Music, in honor of her mom. In addition to the book, she has been telling Lisas story through song since 2012 at piano concerts around the world.

And to supplement the project in Omaha schools, shes performing twice at the Holland Center on Thursday.

This is a story about mans humanity to man, Golabek said in a recent phone interview. When you look at mans inhumanity to man, you must tell stories about how people have the courage to do the right thing and help others. We are all cut from the same cloth so we have to find ways to break down the walls that divide us.

The project, known as the Willesden Read, came here through the Jewish Federation of Omaha and the local Institute for Holocaust Education. Representatives from both organizations read the book, and they knew the Golabek foundations project and curriculum were in line with their mission.

Its very educational and fits with how we deal with diversity, moral responsibility and fighting antisemitism, said Jane Nesbit, the Institutes education coordinator.

Nesbit and Pam Monsky, assistant director of the Jewish Community Relations Council, say antisemitism was on the rise before Hamas terrorists attacked an Israeli kibbutz on Oct. 7, killing more than 110 people, taking hostages and sparking a war thats still raging.

But it has been getting noticeably worse since then, they said.

The Jewish community is less than 2% of the U.S. population, but 54% of all religiously motivated attacks in the country are on Jews, they said. The 2022 FBI Hate Crimes Statistics report backs up that statement.

One of the places theyre seeing more antisemitism is school, they said.

Right now, the Jewish community is facing a lot of obstacles and challenges (with) the start of the war, said Monsky, one of the people who worked to bring Golabek to Omaha. We had been planning this since last summer, so (the war) didnt factor in with the decision. Antisemitism has been rising in schools. Every week we get some kind of incident in the schools.

In the interview, Golabek said she has seen evidence that her book and the work of the Hang on to Your Music Foundation can be part of the solution. She said people from all races, religions, ethnicities and socioeconomic standings have read her writing and attended her concerts and tell her it has changed them.

Everyone can relate to the universal theme of making something of their lives. Everyone can relate to being separated from their family and the absolute despair that ensues, she said. When I set out, I thought that maybe only Jewish audiences would relate to it, but I was excited to see the plethora and abundance of people from all walks of life. I am thrilled in this day of antisemitism that my mothers story can become a beacon of life.

So far, she said, the concerts, the book and the curriculum have impacted 5 million students and teachers across the globe.

Golabeks multimedia performances are at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. The afternoon concert is for teens from 17 Omaha public and private middle schools. Each kid who attends gets a copy of the book. Grants from the Henry Davis Family Foundation, Lozier Foundation and Rich and Fran Juro provided for 2,000 books and covered other expenses.

Tickets for the evening performance are $36 and theyre available at ticketomaha.com

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of March 2024
A 61-year-old Gilead man died Sunday after a rollover crash near Fairbury, Nebraska, according to a Jefferson County Sheriff's Office press release.

Jefferson County 911 received a report of a one-vehicle rollover crash near the 56500 block of U.S. Highway 136 near Fairbury in southeast Nebraska around 10:30 p.m. Sunday

Deputies discovered that Joseph Hergott's Toyota Tacoma had rolled into a ditch on the south side of U.S. 136. He was the only person inside, the Sheriff's Office said.

The initial investigation determined that Hergott was traveling west on U.S. 136 when he crossed the eastbound lane and rolled into the ditch. The truck crashed into an embankment, which caused the vehicle to roll, officials say.

First responders transported Hergott to a Jefferson County hospital, where he died of his injuries.
A 15-year-old girl and a 37-year-old woman were injured Wednesday when Omaha police officers shot and killed a dog police said was aggressive.

The incident happened on the second floor of a downtown apartment building at 305 S. 16th St., near the 16th and Farnam Streets intersection, at 11:18 a.m.

According to police spokesman Lt. Neal Bonacci and a police press release, two officers went to the building in response to a trespassing call. While there, police said, they heard a person screaming. The officers saw two dogs, including a large-breed, Rottweiler-type dog, growling and barking at each other.

A group of bystanders tried to separate the dogs, but were unable to do so, Bonacci said. After the officers rushed up the stairs, they told the bystanders to back up. One officer fired his weapon, and a bullet struck and killed the Rottweiler-type dog. Rottweilers are working breeds with generally protective natures and can weigh more than 100 pounds, according to the American Kennel Club.

Seconds after the officer shot the dog, Bonacci said, officers realized that two of the bystanders, the girl and the woman, were hit by either projectiles or debris. The girl and woman were taken to the Nebraska Medical Center for injuries not believed to be life-threatening, according to police after an earlier report stated the girl was in serious condition.

Police are conducting an internal investigation into the incident, which was captured on officers body-worn cameras.
Omaha city officials say they are re-evaluating an agreement with Douglas County to provide 911 services over hiring concerns after Greg Gonzalez was named deputy 911 director earlier this year.

Gonzalez, a retired Omaha police deputy chief, has been on the job at 911 for about a month, according to Douglas County Administrator Patrick Bloomingdale. Some members of the 911 Users Group, an advisory board made up of officials from the cities and towns served by Douglas County 911, expressed dismay that they werent consulted during the hiring process.

It is concerning that the 911 Users Group did not appear to have a role in the hiring process, Omaha City Attorney Matt Kuhse, who represents the interests of the Omaha Police and Fire Departments, wrote in a letter to Bloomingdale on Jan. 25. At the very least, OPD and OFD should be consulted about this decision.

According to Bloomingdale, the county did not consult the 911 Users Group about past deputy director hires in 2010 and 2017, and there were no concerns brought up in those cases.

Gonzalez is married to Kathy Belcastro-Gonzalez, who sued the city and Omaha Police Department Chief Todd Schmaderer on claims that she was passed up for a promotion out of retaliation for filing a discrimination complaint. In 2022, a federal jury agreed and awarded her $700,000 in lost wages and benefits and another $285,000 in attorney and witness fees.

Kuhse said representatives with the Police and Fire Departments and the Mayors Office will not attend 911 Users Group meetings if Gonzalez is in attendance, adding that the city plans to re-evaluate its agreement with the county and explore other options for 911 services when the agreement expires in December.

Kuhse and Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson, who also wrote letters to Bloomingdale about concerns over the hiring process, said their issues are with process, not personality. Hanson defeated Gonzalez in a contentious election for sheriff two years ago.

I dont believe this is about the process, Bloomingdale said. I believe this is about who we hired, not how we hired them.

Reached Tuesday, Gonzalez declined to comment to the Omaha World-Herald, referring questions instead to Bloomingdale.

Critics say backgrounding process should have been enhanced

Douglas County and the City of Omaha renewed an interlocal agreement for 911 services in January 2020. The agreement expires at the end of this year. Because the vast majority of Douglas Countys population lives in Omaha, the city provides the county with about 85% of expenses to operate the 911 system.

In late 2023, the deputy 911 director job was posted. The position had been vacant since 2019, when former deputy director Kathy Allen was promoted to 911 director. Allen was the hiring manager, according to Bloomingdale, and the hiring did not require approval by the Douglas County Board.

Three finalists were selected and interviewed: Gonzalez; OPD Deputy Chief Scott Gray; and a 911 employee from Washington County. In January, Allen made a conditional offer of employment to Gonzalez, pending a criminal background check. Gonzalez passed the background check, which was done through the Nebraska State Patrol. Gonzalez retired from the Police Department in 2022 in good standing after a 25-year career.

Hanson and Kuhse said the background check is a main point of contention. In a letter sent to Bloomingdale on Jan. 26, Hanson said the background check used in the hiring process was woefully insufficient and suggested that a deputy director candidate should undergo a background check like those law enforcement officers undergo.

Especially for high-level positions, that have access to very sensitive data, there should be enhanced vetting, Hanson said in an interview Tuesday. When we hire deputies or civilians or even allow for contractors to come into our facility, we have a fairly robust vetting process that goes above and beyond criminal convictions  we check references, we check with past employers, we check with law enforcement agencies that may have information about individuals regardless of charges or convictions.

In late January  both before and after Gonzalez was offered conditional employment with the county  Kuhse, Hanson and Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine sent letters to Bloomingdale and other county officials expressing concerns about the hiring process.

If a Deputy Director is selected that causes the City concern over the integrity of 911, the City will have to consider whether it is appropriate to extend this relationship in its current form or explore other options, Kuhse wrote in a letter dated Jan. 25.

In an interview Tuesday, Kuhse said: The countys actions are forcing the city to re-evaluate the agreement.

Proposed resolution may declare no confidence in vetting

The first 911 Users Group meeting since Gonzalez was hired is slated for Wednesday afternoon. At the meeting, the board may consider a resolution to declare no confidence in the hiring and vetting process. The resolution was a compilation from many people, Hanson said.

The Douglas County Board and the Douglas County 911 Director have acted contrary to the spirit and intent of the interlocal co-operative agreement by excluding the 911 User Group from its intended assistance and guidance to the 911 director, the draft resolution reads.

If adopted, the resolution would be symbolic and would not have an impact on Gonzalezs employment.

But a vote on the resolution may have to be tabled if three of the eight voting members, those from Omaha, will not be in attendance. Kuhse confirmed on Tuesday that the city representatives do not plan to attend Wednesdays meeting.

In a letter Kuhse sent to Bloomingdale on March 20, Kuhse said the city will no longer send representatives to 911 Users Group meetings at which Gonzalez is present until the situation is settled. The city entities will only attend the meetings if informed 24 hours in advance that Gonzalez will not be present, and Kuhse wrote it is possible that aforementioned City representatives will leave if Gonzalez shows up at the meeting.

I will attend tomorrows meeting, Hanson said. It is unfortunate if other members of the user group dont feel comfortable to attend. I think thats exactly why the discussion is so important.
NEW YORK  A New York judge Tuesday issued a gag order barring Donald Trump from making public statements about witnesses, prosecutors, court staff and jurors in his upcoming hush-money criminal trial.

Judge Juan M. Merchan cited Trump's previous comments about him and others involved in the case, as well as a looming April 15 trial date in granting the prosecution's request for a gag order.

It is without question that the imminency of the risk of harm is now paramount, Merchan wrote.

Prosecutors had asked for the gag order citing what they called his long history of making public and inflammatory remarks about people involved in his legal cases.

The order also bars Trump from making or directing others to make public statements about people involved in the trial, but it does not apply to the Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg because he is an elected official.

The gag order adds to restrictions put in place after Trumps arraignment last April that prohibit him from using evidence in the case to attack witnesses.

Trumps campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the order. A message seeking comment was sent to the prosecutors office.

The trial, involving allegations related to hush money paid during Trumps 2016 campaign to cover up marital infidelity claims, had been in limbo after his lawyers complained about a recent deluge of nearly 200,000 pages of evidence from a previous federal investigation into the matter.

Trumps lawyers accused Braggs office of intentionally failing to pursue evidence from the 2018 federal investigation, which sent Trumps former lawyer Michael Cohen to prison. They contended prosecutors working under Bragg, a Democrat, did so to gain an unfair advantage in the case and harm Trumps election chances. Cohen, now a vocal Trump critic, is poised to be a key prosecution witness against his ex-boss.

Merchan bristled at the defenses claims at a hearing Monday, saying the DAs office had no duty to collect evidence from the federal investigation, nor was the U.S. attorneys office required to volunteer the documents. What transpired was a far cry from Manhattan prosecutors injecting themselves in the process and vehemently and aggressively trying to obstruct your ability to get documentation, the judge said.

The DAs office denied wrongdoing and blamed Trumps lawyers for bringing the time crunch upon themselves by waiting until Jan. 18 to subpoena the records from the U.S. attorneys office  a mere nine weeks before the trial was originally supposed to start. Merchan, who earlier this month postponed the trial until at least mid-April to deal with the evidence issue, told defense lawyers that they should have acted sooner if they believed they didnt have all the records they wanted.

Though the hush money case is seen as less consequential than his other prosecutions  which charge him with conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and illegally retaining classified documents  it has taken on added importance given that its the only one that appears likely for trial in the coming months.

The trial will begin with jury selection, a potentially arduous task given the publicity surrounding the case and Trumps wild unpopularity in heavily Democratic Manhattan.

Trump has pleaded not guilty to charges that he falsified business records, a felony punishable by up to four years in prison, though there is no guarantee a conviction would result in jail time. Manhattan prosecutors say Trump did it as part of an effort to protect his 2016 campaign by burying what he says were false stories of extramarital sex. Trump on Monday repeated to reporters his claims that the case is a witch hunt and hoax.

Where each Trump case stands Classified documents case Election interference Hush-money scheme Georgia election indictment Civil cases
NEW YORK  NBC News cut ties Tuesday with former Republican National Committee chief Ronna McDaniel less than a week after hiring her as an on-air political contributor, a decision that followed a furious protest by some of its journalists and commentators.

In announcing the decision in a memo, NBC Universal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde apologized to staff members who felt let down by the hire, acknowledging he signed off on it.

"No organization, particularly a newsroom, can succeed unless it is cohesive and aligned. Over the last few days, it has become clear that this appointment undermines that goal," Conde said.

Still, he said the network remains committed to centering "voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum."

There was no immediate comment from McDaniel, who stepped down as RNC leader just over two weeks ago. She found out she lost her job through media reports, not from NBC directly, a person close to her said on condition of anonymity.

Journalists revolt

NBC announced Friday that McDaniel would contribute commentary across network platforms. It said it wanted the perspective of someone with inside knowledge about the Republican Party and former President Donald Trump heading into the 2024 election, in which Trump is seeking a second term.

The response from journalists and others within the network was swift  and public.

Former "Meet the Press" moderator Chuck Todd criticized his bosses on the air Sunday for the hire, saying he didn't know what to believe from her after she supported Trump in "gaslighting" and "character assassination" following the 2020 election.

An extraordinary succession of MSNBC hosts  Joe Scarborough, Rachel Maddow, Joy Reid, Nicolle Wallace, Jen Psaki and Lawrence O'Donnell  all publicly protested the decision to hire McDaniel on their shows Monday.

Republicans countered that the protest indicated that people at NBC News, particularly at MSNBC, were unwilling to countenance opposing viewpoints.

The hiring, and quick firing, represents one of those rare instances likely to unite the left and right  in anger.

"NBC caving in to the censors," Elon Musk, owner of X, formerly Twitter, posted on his platform.

"These Radical Left Lunatics are CRAZY," Trump said on his Truth Social site, "and the top people at NBC ARE WEAK."

Those who protested McDaniel's hiring claimed it wasn't because she is a Republican, but it was because she helped promote Trump's lies about the 2020 presidential election and assisted in efforts to overturn the results.

History of hiring former politicians

Efforts by news organizations to hire former politicians is hardly new.

NBC News hired Psaki directly from her job as press secretary to President Joe Biden, and another former Republican National Committee chairman, Michael Steele, hosts a weekend show on MSNBC.

Former Trump chief of staff Reince Priebius is an ABC News contributor and Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former White House communications director during the Trump administration, is a CNN commentator.

But there are concerns that the McDaniel episode may make it difficult for networks to find voices this year that can provide insight into Trump and his campaign.

Conde said that NBC News remains committed to the principle that there must be diverse voices on the network. "And to that end," he said, "we will redouble our efforts to seek voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum."

McDaniel's tenure at NBC may have lasted less than a week, but a mess surrounding it could last much longer. She was dropped Tuesday by Creative Artists Agency, which she hired to negotiate her TV deal, and has been consulting with lawyers since learning that deal had ended.

The succession of MSNBC stars who denounced McDaniel and the hiring reached its apogee during the weekly show by Maddow, the network's most popular personality. She spent nearly a half-hour on the issue, drawing a comparison between crackpot efforts by authoritarians to gain power in the U.S., and the GOP backing of Trump under McDaniel's leadership.

She called McDaniel's hiring by NBC News "inexplicable," comparing it to a mobster being given a position in a district attorney's office.

Maddow appeared Tuesday on Reid's show. Reid said she was grateful for the decision to oust McDaniel, and Maddow echoed that.

"To see essentially the unanimous feeling among all the journalists  and all of the senior staff and producers and everybody in this building about this was one thing," she said. "Then to see the executives and the leadership hear that and respond to it and be willing to change course  I have deep respect for that."

Will 2024 voter turnout be the same as in the 2020 presidential election? Will 2024 voter turnout be the same as in the 2020 presidential election? Key findings 10 counties with the highest voter turnout in the 2020 presidential election
LINCOLN  The next few days could determine the fate of Gov. Jim Pillens plan to make significant property tax cuts by raising Nebraska sales taxes and capping local government spending.

Speaker of the Legislature John Arch of La Vista said Tuesday that he plans to start debate on a key piece of the plan Wednesday afternoon, although he doesnt anticipate finishing debate the same day.

Meanwhile, the Capitol Rotunda has been buzzing with advocates and lobbyists trying to convince lawmakers to support or oppose various parts of the legislation.

The measure is Legislative Bill 388, introduced by State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Omaha area, the Revenue Committee chairwoman. The committee had voted last week to amend the bill and advance it. On Tuesday, they voted again after seeing the actual text of the amendment, which was not written in time for the earlier vote.

The Tuesday vote was 7-1, with Sen. George Dungan of Lincoln casting the lone no vote. Dungan, who was out of town Thursday, said he opposes the sales tax increase included in the amendment.

I dont think the way to pay for property tax reduction is on the backs of everyday Nebraskans, he said, noting that low- and middle-income people pay a larger portion of their income in sales taxes than wealthier people.

As amended, LB 388 would increase the state sales tax rate by as much as 1 cent, to 6.5 cents total, and add taxes to more goods and services. The state rate increase could end up being less than 1 cent, based on a trigger mechanism included in the bill. (Local sales taxes are in addition to the state rate.)

The trigger depends on overall state revenues for the fiscal year ending June 30. If they are close to the most recent official revenue projection, the state sales tax increase would be 1 cent. But if revenues top the projection by more than 3.5% plus $116 million, the sales tax increase would be  cent. If they are up 3.5% plus $233 million, the increase would be  cent, and so on. The most recent revenue projection, set in late February, calls for revenues of $7.02 billion for the current fiscal year.

LB 388 also calls for adding taxes to pop and candy, lottery tickets, veterinary care and other pet services, moving and storage services, dry cleaning, games of skill, hemp and CBD products, vaping products, cigarettes and advertising services offered by businesses with gross revenues of more than $1 billion. However, to help lower-income families, the package would remove sales taxes from residential utility bills.

Linehan said the plan is to distribute the new revenue to school districts to drive down property taxes.

Estimates from the Governors Office show the money, when coupled with existing caps on school property tax revenues, would cut school taxes by more than 45% statewide. LB 388 would put similar property tax revenue caps on counties and cities, although they would not get additional state money.

But the revenue bill will need to be paired with legislation from the Education Committee to provide for the distribution mechanism. Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, the Education Committee chairman, said the committee is working on a proposal but could not say when it might take shape.

Estimates produced by Pillens staff showed that the plan would significantly reduce the level and variation of school property tax levies. Currently, levies range from less than 40 cents per $100 of valuation up to about $1.18, not counting bond issues. Under the proposed plan, the levies would range from about 20 cents up to about 75 cents.

Pillen started the year by calling for a $2 billion reduction in property taxes. To reach that figure, he counted about $1 billion dedicated to property tax relief last year, along with another $1 billion of proposed new revenue this year. LB 388 would bring in an estimated $650 million in new revenue.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of March 2024
LINCOLN  Nebraska lawmakers passed the state budget package Tuesday as a day of fiscal reckoning looms for other legislation.

Current estimates show that if every bill that has cleared at least one round of debate were to pass, the state general fund would be about $272 million in the hole during the next two-year budget period, according to the Legislative Fiscal Office. That does not include the cost of bills that are awaiting first-round debate.

Every bill we pass that has a cost is adding to what were spending, warned State Sen. Tony Vargas of Omaha, a member of the Appropriations Committee who urged colleagues to make decisions based on the states priorities.

But Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Omaha area, the Revenue Committee chairwoman, expressed confidence the potential budget crunch could be dealt with through negotiation and compromise over the next couple of weeks. Lawmakers have 10 days left in their 60-day session.

In previous sessions, key lawmakers have met following the budgets passage to talk through other bills and figure out what could be scaled back, what can wait for another year and what may go by the wayside.

Sen. Rob Clements of Elmwood, the Appropriation Committee chairman, said he expects a similar process to be used this year. He said he thinks senators should focus on measures that are unlikely to face a gubernatorial veto.

The last couple of years, theres been a lot of revenue and theyre having to realize were getting back to a more normal situation, he said of his legislative colleagues.

The budget bills approved Tuesday update the current state budget, which was passed last year and covers the two fiscal years ending June 30, 2025. Lawmakers voted 42-6 to pass Legislative Bill 1412 and 37-8 on LB 1413.

The bills provide for an average increase in state general fund spending of 2.7% over the two-year budget period, up from the 2.3% approved last year. They also include the transfer of about $230 million from various cash funds to support Gov. Jim Pillens much-discussed initiative to cut property tax payments by 40%.

$20 million for new spending or more tax cuts

The budget package would leave a record balance of $549.2 million in the states general fund by the end of the current budget period. But based on Legislative Fiscal Office projections, the cushion would shrink to $62.3 million for the next budget biennium, which ends June 30, 2027.

Clements has warned lawmakers that the record general fund cushion this budget period is needed to make last years tax cut and school aid package sustainable into the future.

But it does leave room for lawmakers to increase spending or cut taxes by about $20 million per year. Vargas compared that figure to past lean years when the Legislature had less than $1 million left for other items after passing the budget.

Among the bills competing for that $20 million are a proposed expansion of homestead exemptions for partially disabled veterans, a package of new income tax credits and deductions, increases in Medicaid payment rates for dentists, a program of subsidized child care to benefit child care workers and a package of teacher training incentives and other education-related programs.

The fiscal crunch is not expected to affect Pillens property tax cut plan. The governors initiative  and a bill advanced by the Revenue Committee  proposes to increase sales and other taxes and use previously allocated dollars to pay for the plan.

State school aid going up, not down

The biggest spending increase in the budget package resulted from a higher-than-expected calculation of state aid to schools for next year.

School aid had been projected to drop $28 million for the 2024-25 fiscal year, compared with the amount appropriated in last years budget. Instead, the total increased by $65 million once state education officials incorporated actual school spending figures into their aid calculations.

The budget package also includes $20 million to cover rising costs for foster care and $15 million to increase nursing staff at the Lincoln Regional Center, the state-run psychiatric hospital, both of which had been included in Pillens budget proposal.

Lawmakers did not include money to boost payments for community-based developmental disability services. But they did add language directing the Department of Health and Human Services to use all of the money appropriated for such services. The agency has had money left over in recent years, while service providers say their payment rates are too low to cover rising costs.

Senators also rejected efforts by advocates to prevent a $15 million cut in the behavioral health services budget. The money was not spent last year and the budget provided for reducing the ongoing behavioral health services appropriations by that amount.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of March 2024
LINCOLN  After a two-month delay, a bill that would aid Omahas development of an inland port authority advanced with little debate Tuesday in the Nebraska Legislature.

Lawmakers voted 31-0 for Legislative Bill 164 in the first of three rounds of floor debate. As amended, the bill would regulate how an inland port authority in Omaha would operate and seek community feedback on projects, particularly as economic recovery efforts in North and South Omaha get underway.

Thats the biggest thing for me, said the bills introducer, State Sen. Terrell McKinney, whose district is in North Omaha. To make sure that the people are not forgotten about.

An inland port authority is an area controlled by an independent board that can engage in marketing, issue and sell bonds, and acquire property for economic development. In 2021, the Legislature passed a bill by Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha that allowed up to five inland port authorities to be set up within the state.

Since then, port authorities have been established in Lincoln County and Fremont, with other areas working on additional ones. That includes Omaha, where City Council members voted earlier this year to move forward on establishing an inland port authority; Wayne said city officials recently submitted an application.

Originally, LB 164 related to building codes. McKinney amended the bill earlier this year to focus on inland port authorities, and lawmakers first debated it for nearly three hours in January before deciding to postpone a vote to allow time for senators to negotiate.

At the time, some opponents said they were worried that creating too many inland port authorities would hurt the states economy. McKinneys initial proposal would have allowed seven. The bill also would create a fund to support such authorities using cash transfers from the Legislature, as well as interest earned from federal pandemic relief dollars, the Perkins County Canal fund, and the fund supporting the construction of a new prison.

After negotiations, McKinney filed a new amendment that keeps the limit at five, and would add regulations for how Omahas inland port authority would operate and collect community input.

McKinney and Wayne said their hope is that the bill would allow the Legislature to transfer over $30 million to Omahas new port authority for use in an ongoing economic recovery effort in North and South Omaha.

The two senators have led that effort for three years. During that time, over $400 million in state and federal dollars has been allocated for that purpose. Currently, the Department of Economic Development has control of much of the remaining funding. McKinney and Wayne have criticized the department for not being transparent or seeking community input.

Thats the core of all of this, McKinney said. Its to put things in place where we have transparency and oversight of these projects to make sure that the North Omaha community is taken care of.

McKinneys latest amendment also would establish two child care grant programs, drawing from a bill that Sen. Eliot Bostar of Lincoln proposed this year, LB 1416. That bill advanced from a committee, but time is running out for it to be considered with just 10 days left in the session. Wayne said LB 164 gives the measure a new home.

Both grant programs would be used to support the growth of child care providers across Nebraska. With workforce development pinned as a top priority for this session, lawmakers have been looking at child care as a way to help solve the states ongoing labor shortage.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of March 2024
LINCOLN  After two days of debate, the Nebraska Legislature advanced a bill that would require online age verification on adult websites, despite concerns about potential unintended consequences.

State lawmakers voted 31-0 Wednesday to push Legislative Bill 1092 through the first of three rounds of floor debate. Introduced by State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, the bill would hold online sites liable if they provided material harmful to minors and didnt have online age verification measures in place.

Murman said the bill would put some basic safeguards in place to protect children from online pornography, which studies have shown can be harmful.

The bill is there to help the parents, he said, adding that it would at least make (online pornography) difficult to access unintentionally.

LB 1092 originally stalled in the Legislatures Judiciary Committee, but eventually was voted out with an amendment to specify what harmful materials would be covered. Murman has since introduced more amendments to address other concerns and said he plans to propose further changes for the second round of debate.

Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue, a committee member, led opposition to the bill during the debate. She said it remains flawed, lacking legitimate enforcement measures and leaving loopholes that would still allow minors to access adult materials.

This doesnt do enough while doing too much, Blood said.

Murman said several options would be available for verifying ages, such as a digital copy of a drivers license or state identification card or one of several online age-verification applications. The bill would prohibit a pornography site or any third-party age verification sites from keeping a persons data once access has been granted.

Under the bill, sites could be sued if a minor winds up with access to their material. They also could be sued for holding onto personal data from users. Blood and others pointed out the problem this would create for companies, who would have to comply with the age-verification requirement without being able to keep the proof that they did verify ages.

Sen. Jen Day of Omaha said she is concerned about the material that her two boys could encounter online. But shes also concerned about the bill forcing people to put personal information on the internet.

Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward supported the bill. She said that if people are concerned about putting their personal information online, they should not go to such sites.

Eight other states have similar laws in place, including Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, Texas, Utah and Virginia. Murman said his original bill was based on Louisianas law. Both houses of the Kansas Legislature also have passed legislation, now awaiting a signature from that states governor.

Murman said that PornHub, a major pornography site, is no longer available in those states. Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha disputed that, saying a Utah resident she knows was easily able to access the site while Nebraska lawmakers were debating the bill.

Hunt said she thinks the current system, although not perfect, works pretty well. She said she trusts parents and safe adults to guide children about online activities, and argued LB 1092 edges too close into government overreach.

Weve really become a nanny state, she said. Not everything you dislike should be illegal.

Blood brought up several inconsistencies with the bill, including its age limit of 18, while the age of consent in Nebraska is 16. She also argued that Nebraska doesnt have the power to regulate companies that are based outside the U.S.

Many minors have the technology skills to bypass such age verification barriers if they wish, Blood said. She said LB 1092 wouldnt actually accomplish what it seeks to do, but instead would open up other risks, like increasing the chances of identity theft.

Blood alleged that lawmakers who supported LB 1092 didnt fully understand the technology issues at play, and claimed they only supported the bill because they feared the optics of opposing a bill thats focused on regulating the porn industry.

Youre putting Nebraskans in danger because you dont want people to think youre against something like this, Blood said.
A Nebraska lawmaker who is already under investigation for workplace harassment over comments he made on the floor of the Legislature last week faced new allegations of inappropriate remarks Tuesday night.

State Sen. Steve Halloran of Hastings  who has dismissed calls for his resignation but could be censured after he invoked other lawmakers' names while reading a graphic description of a rape during floor debate last week  was accused Tuesday of privately joking to colleagues about Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh using pornography.

Cavanaugh accused Halloran of "disparaging" her to fellow senators amid debate over Legislative Bill 1092, which would require porn websites to verify the age of online users.

The accusation came just over a week after Halloran used the last name of Sens. Machaela and John Cavanaugh, as well as Sen. George Dungan, as he read a graphic book passage describing a brutal rape amid debate over LB 441, which would have enacted criminal penalties for anyone who provides obscene materials to minors.

"The same people that asked me to perform a sex act to them on the microphone are talking about me watching porn," Machaela Cavanaugh said Tuesday evening. "I don't appreciate it. I'm tired of being bullied. And I'm tired of you all not standing up for me and not standing up for women."

"I'm tired of being victimized," she said, later adding: "And I am tired of the bully that Steve Halloran has become in the body  and that you all have let him become. I'm tired of the women who haven't stood up and I'm tired of the men who haven't stood up."

Halloran faces a public hearing Thursday on the legislative resolution that Machaela Cavanaugh introduced last week formally accusing him of sexual harassment and seeking to censure him. He has said he used senators' names last week as a way to get them to pay attention to his floor comments.

Halloran, in brief remarks to the Lincoln Journal Star following Tuesday's debate, pointed to Thursday's hearing and said Machaela Cavanaugh "is very sensitive and I understand that," offering no further comment on the Omaha senator's latest accusation.

Several lawmakers have called for Halloran to resign, and he faced further scolding Tuesday following his latest alleged comments.

Minutes after his sisters impassioned speech, John Cavanaugh called Hallorans latest remarks a further demonstration of his poor judgment and echoed his sisters concerns over many lawmakers unwillingness to confront or condemn Halloran, a conservative who will be term-limited this year.

Theres not enough members of this body taking issue with what is transpiring here, he said, lamenting the low-brow conversation, personal attacks and gutter talk that has reared its head in the Capitol.

I know that, at your core, most of you dont want it to continue, he added. But the problem is when you dont call out this bullying conduct, it continues. Its as simple as that. Its as simple as standing up and saying, I disagree. Saying, I think thats inappropriate. This is not what were here for. You shouldnt be doing that. Were better than that.

The Legislature's Executive Board will hear testimony from invited speakers only during the public hearing on Sens. Machaela Cavanaugh and Julie Slama's resolution to censure Halloran, scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. Thursday.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of March 2024
The Sokoto State Police Command on Monday confirmed the arrest of suspects alleged to be responsible for chopping off a middle aged man hands in Sokoto.

The Public Relations Officer of the State Police Command, Sadiq Abubakar Mohammed, was said to confirm the arrest on Monday afternoon to the media.

The PPRO said investigation is ongoing; he noted that the police will brief the public of the outcome of the investigation as soon as it is concluded.

Habibu Abubakar, a middle aged man, was taken to a hospital on Sunday after he was attacked by unknown hoodlums that chopped off his hands for reason not known to the public.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants attacked the victim with dangerous weapons in his home at Nakasari area of Sokoto South Local Government Area of the state at about 2.00am and left him without his two limbs.

The security situation in the northern part of Nigeria is getting worse everyday. Diverse forms of crimes and violence are being unleashed on innocent citizens by merchants of violence under several identities, from Boko Haram to herdsmen, bandits and others. All the violent activities have increased pressures on the Army, Police, Air Force in handling security matters of the country.

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Elder statesman and National Leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, Chief Edwin Clark, has strongly criticized a military operation at his residence in the Kiagbodo Local Government Area of Delta State.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Clark recounted receiving numerous calls informing him about the military raid on his home. The raid was reportedly conducted by armed soldiers in search of an individual named Vote, suspected to be linked to the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama. Clark mentioned receiving an apology from a person identified as the Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Army Division in Port Harcourt on behalf of the Army for the raid.

Describing the incident, Clark stated, Some of them went to the buildings behind the main house and broke all the doors that were locked. They matched out my staff living in those buildings, including lecturers at the university, and made them sit on bare ground.

He further narrated, They also broke into my late brother, Ambassador Akporode Blessing Clarks house. A man who served this country internationally in various capacities, including as Nigerias Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as both of us share the same premises. They brought out his son almost naked, as the young man was taking a bath when they stormed the house.

All their phones were seized. The people had to identify themselves and told them whose house it was before they asked for my telephone number, which they said they would pass to their oga before they all departed. One would have expected that at this juncture, a call could have been put to the Governor of Delta State, to inform him of what happened.

Expressing his concerns, Clark emphasized that the authorization of such raids was disrespectful and unlawful, especially considering his decades of service to the nation. He urged the authorities to respect his rights and allow him to live in peace.

Clark concluded by stating, If I die today as a result of a natural occurrence, it will be a joyful celebration. But if my death is linked to any dubious means by some overzealous state actors, no one can tell how far the fire will rage. This is not a threat. It is an acknowledgement of Gods mercies on me.
Some filling stations have reduced the pump price of fuel in Enugu.

LEADERSHIP correspondent who went round Enugu observed that some filling stations have adjusted their pump price to between 660 to 680 naira.

Prior to Tuesday, LEADERSHIP can authoritatively report that no filling station was selling fuel at the pump price of N660 per litre as most of them sold fuel between N690 and N720 per litre.

A marketer, Mr Obinna Ndukwe who spoke to our correspondent attributed the development to a purported promise by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation NNPC Ltds that there will more supply for marketers at the depot.

Ndukwe stated that already, some marketers have received the product at a price he descrIbed as reasonable.

He promised that the price of fuel will further drop downwards in the future if the NNPC continues to provide the product at the depot.

I can attribute the small crash to the promise by the NNPC to marketers that there will be more supply for them at the depot.

I heard that some people have already gotten fuel from the depot as promised by the NNPC, and I expect that if they continue to make the product available, the pump price of fuel will drop

I even learnt that the NNPC is making the product available at a new price, so why wont the price drop downwards? We are not comfortable selling fuel at exorbitant price, but we must also recover our capital, he stated.
Mustapha Kwankwaso, the son of former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has landed a top political appointment.

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, appointed the younger Kwankwaso as a nominee for commissioner.

Kwankwaso, who served as a former Governor of Kano and was the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party in the 2023 general election has been a major pillar of support for the Kano Governor over the years. He had backed him in the 2019 election when Governor Yusuf contested for the post under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP but he lost. He also fought with him in 2023 which was successful.

Additionally, Adamu Kibiya, a former Commissioner for Land who was previously suspended for making derogatory remarks about tribunal judges, has also been nominated.

The other nominees for commissionership are Usman Aliyu and Abduljabbar Garko.

The names of the four nominees have been submitted to the Kano State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.


Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has mandated telecommunications operators in the country to disconnect all phone lines of subscribers who have not linked their National Identification Numbers, NIN, with their SIM cards.

The disconnections are set to take place on Friday, March 29,2024, following a directive from the NCC mandating all registered SIMs without proper NIN linkage to be either corrected or completely disconnected from networks.

The NIN-SIM Linkage process, which began on February 28, 2024, is part of the governments initiative to combat criminal activities such as banditry and kidnapping, ultimately bolstering national security.

There are hints of a potential third phase in April 2024.

Operators have reportedly collaborated with the NCC in implementing the directive, demonstrating their dedication to national security objectives and ensuring full compliance by the specified deadlines.

The second phase will target subscribers with five or more SIMs from a single operator that lack verified NIN-SIM linkages.

READ ALSO: NCC seeks joint West Africa regional protection of undersea cables

The third phase, scheduled to start on April 15, will focus on subscribers with four SIMs or fewer and unverified NINs.

While telecoms companies are advocating for a review and extension of the April deadline for the third phase, indications from the NCC suggest a firm commitment to the established timelines.

The first phase resulted in the barring of 40 million lines, including approximately 17 million active SIMs without NIN submissions and 23 million inactive SIMs lacking NINs over the past year.
Nigerian Army is set to release more than 200 suspected who had been detained over Boko Haram terrorist activities.

The military said the suspects had been cleared of links to the Boko Haram sect. The detainees will be handed over to the Borno State Government for proper reintegration into the society on Tuesday morning at Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri, the state capital.

The detainees were arrested by the military in the heat of insurgency. Not fewer than 200 cleared Boko Haram suspects that are being cleared of any wrongdoing by security operatives, and they will be hand over to the Borno State Government for rehabilitation and reintegration.

The handing over ceremony is set to be this morning (Tuesday) at 10: am at Giwa Barracks, a top source told Daily Trust.

The source said the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Zuwaira Gambo, and her Information and Internal Security counterpart, Prof Tar Umar, will be receiving the clear detainees on behalf of the state government.
Uba Sani, Kaduna State Governor has hosted the recently released students of Kuriga school.

Sani held a dinner banquet on Tuesday for the released 137 Kuriga schoolchildren.

Recall that the schoolchildren were in the bandits den for two weeks before they were released and subsequently handed over to Kaduna State Government.

The governor disclosed that he hosted a banquet for the schoolchildren in a post on his verified Facebook page.

I joined our released Kuriga schoolchildren at dinner last night. They were all in high spirit and showed eagerness to return to school.

As a government, we are working assiduously to ensure that the children are in the best physical and psychological condition.

We are giving them the best medical treatment available, as well as psychosocial counseling. When we are satisfied that the children are in the best physical and medical condition, we shall hand them over to their parents.
The process of nominating the new Olubadan hit an unexpected roadblock yesterday as eight out of the eleven kingmakers abstained from a crucial meeting convened by the Head of the Ibadan Traditional Council, Chief Rashidi Ladoja, at Mapo Hall.

During the meeting intended to kickstart the selection procedures for the next Olubadan, only Chief Ladoja was present, with the rest of the kingmakers notably absent.

Their absence has raised doubts about the nomination process, given their key role in the selection.

Among the absentees were prestigious titles such as Balogun, Otun Balogun, Osi Balogun, Ashipa Balogun, and the Ekerin Balogun, along with Otun Olubadan, Osi Olubadan, Ashipa Olubadan, Ekerin Olubadan, and Iyalode, forming the Olubadan-in-Council.

Efforts to reach Oba Amidu Ajibade, the Ekerin Olubadan, for comments on their absence proved futile, with unanswered calls.

Speculation suggests the boycott may stem from past tensions between Chief Ladoja and other members, particularly regarding the contentious issue of beaded crowns by late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, a stance Ladoja opposed.

Additionally, when Governor Seyi Makinde endorsed the crowning and elevation of the kings, Ladoja abstained from the ceremony, emphasizing his disapproval.



Unlike his peers who embraced the title of Oba, Ladoja has retained the title of high Chief.

Speaking to journalists after the unsuccessful meeting, Ladoja clarified, The other members feel that the Olubadan-designate, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has not communicated with them. They mentioned they were unable to ascertain his health condition. They stated that when hes ready, he will engage with them, and we will reconvene the meeting. The Olubadan-designate is expected to be present.

Regarding his lone attendance, Ladoja explained, A meeting was scheduled for today, and as the convener, I am present.

Looking ahead, despite the setback, Ladoja remains optimistic, affirming, The next step is for them to come when they are ready. I have called them, and their reason is that the Olubadan-designate has not communicated with them.
Nollywood actress, Habibat Jinad has revealed how her senior colleague, Mide Martins forced her to start bleaching her skin after their encounter on a movie set.

Speaking on Biola Bayos talk show, Talk To B, Habibat Jinad recounted an incident on the set of a movie produced by Mides husband, Afeez Owo.

The actress disclosed that Mide Martins, in front of others, insulted her based on her skin color, likening her complexion to that of a monkey.

Jinad said that the hurtful remarks deeply affected her self-esteem,, causing her to consider skin bleaching to conform to societal standards of beauty.

She said, At a rehearsal ground at Afeez Owos set, something happened, a colleague of mine did something and I wasnt the one who did that thing and they said we should kneel. Mrs. Mide Martins was there, my boss was there and some other people and Mide Martins compared it to a monkeys skin. And it got to me. She even complained about my skin, saying I was too dark and this made me contemplate bleaching my skin to please her and others.

Watch the video below:

How my colleague, Mide Martins insulted me with my very black skin color  Habibat Jinad pic.twitter.com/3eoYSX6oKY  Olamond Naija TV  (@OlamondNaija) March 26, 2024

KanyiDaily recalls that Ghanaian actress, Moesha Boduong had disclosed her intention to continue skin bleaching, emphasizing her admiration for curvy, light-skinned women.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed strong condemnation towards the alarming rise in kidnapping incidents across Nigeria.

During a Ramadan dinner with members of the federal judiciary on Tuesday, Tinubu emphasized the need to address this issue with utmost seriousness and urgency.

The president highlighted the distasteful nature of kidnapping activities and called for decisive action against those involved.

In a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, presidential spokesperson, Tinubu said that people engaged in kidnapping should be classified and treated as terrorists.

He denounced their cowardice, particularly targeting vulnerable groups such as children, and emphasized their inability to confront the strength of the Nigerian armed forces.

We must treat kidnappers as terrorists. They are cowardly. They have been degraded. They look for soft targets, Tinubu said.

They go to schools and kidnap children and cause disaffection. We must treat them equally as terrorists in order to get rid of them, and I promise you, we will get rid of them.

KanyiDaily recalls that President Bola Tinubu had also announced that the Nigerian soldiers killed in Delta state will be posthumously honored with national awards.
The Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams has reacted to a voice note of him allegedly making assassination allegation against Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, alias Sunday Igboho; and the Chief of Staff to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Mr Tayo Ayinde.

Adams warned against what he termed as deliberate efforts by some individuals to drag his name in the mud, saying his silence should not be taken for cowardice. Adams, while speaking on the controversy generated by an audio clip, said he was ready to set the records straight on the various questions hanging in the balance on the alleged defamation contained in the clips which he said was concocted, distorted, and disjointed. The two individuals mentioned had both threatened to drag the Aare Ona Kakanfo, Iba Gani Adams, to court for allegedly accusing them of plotting an assassination.

Igboho and Ayinde, in separate pre-action letters by their lawyers, demanded that Adams should retract the said assassination claim against them or they would drag him to court.

In a March 20, 2024 pre-action letter, Ayinde, through his lawyer, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), complained about a viral note, in which Adams was allegedly heard saying in Yoruba language: So, be careful associating with Igboho. Just last night, he was with Tayo Ayinde, the Lagos State Governors Chief of Staff. He was heavily paid. You know that I have an extensive intelligence network as Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland. Until about 2:45 am, he was with Tayo Ayinde, the Lagos State Governors Chief of Staff, who Tinubu also uses in Lagos to coordinate the execution of his evil machinations. He has been doing work of that nature for Tinubu since his days in the SSS.

He resigned from the SSS, Ibadan to concentrate fully on such work for Tinubu, who compensated him with the office of Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor. It was at his hotel somewhere in Ikeja, Lagos, that Igboho visited him to collect money for logistics to confront me. Igboho left lbadan at about midnight to attend this meeting which ended at about 2:45am.

Tayo Ayinde gave N45m in cash to Igboho for the operation, thus shortchanging Igboho to the tune of N5m out of the N50m purse provided by Tinubu. The discovery of this has brewed disenchantment in their midst.

However, in a statement on Tuesday by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Aderemi, Adams described the voice note as distorted.

He also described the threat of lawsuits by Igboho and Ayinde as a grand conspiracy to discredit his person, saying he was ready to do everything to protect his hard-earned name and the office he represented.

In the statement titled Dont take my silence for cowardice, Gani Adams speaks on alleged defamation of character, he said his reaction became pertinent as it had become evident that Igboho and Ayinde were not ready to toe the line of peace as initiated by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

Adams therefore in a rejoinder to Olumide-Fusikas pre-action letter, written by his lawyers, Oluwole Kehinde and Rosemary Thompson, dated Monday but obtained by The PUNCH on Tuesday, denied the content and inferences drawn by Ayindes lawyer in the audio clip.

The letter partly read, Firstly, our client denies the content and inferences drawn by you in your letter under reference regarding the alleged audio clip you attributed to our client. As stated in your letter, the content of the alleged video clip, which is a concocted, distorted, and disjointed part of a private conversation between our client and another person in 2021, was published and widely circulated by one Chief Sunday Adeyemo (Alias Sunday Ighoho) and not our client.

It also said, Furthermore, it is obvious from the alleged defamatory remarks that our client mentioned that it was a rumoured and unconfirmed information that he found difficult to believe and could not be shared publicly. Thus, there is no element of malice on the part of our client pertaining to the alleged statement attributed to him in the said video clip.

Adams was further quoted in the statement by his media aide as saying The reason for my silence in the midst of the various legal and media infractions by Igboho and Ayinde, was not because I am a coward, but because of the initial interventions of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, other prominent Obas and several other important personalities in Yorubaland.

But with the ongoing lies and aspersions against my person, I think it is time for me to come out open and set the record straight.

Though my legal team has done what was required of them, I need to state clearly that the audio clip generating the squabbles was a distorted and disjointed content of a private conversation which held way back in 2021 with a US-based younger brother of a friend.

The conversation was initiated by the young man who claimed he wanted a reconciliation between myself, Igboho and some other people.

It was while responding on reasons for reconciliation at the time that he mentioned the names of the two people.

Adams noted that in the circulating audio, he said it repeatedly that though it was very difficult to believe, there was an unconfirmed rumour allegedly linking Igboho to the murder of the late Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige.

My statement was not done in bad faith and it was purely a private conversation, he added.

He stressed that However, on the issue of my brother, Tayo Ayinde, let me make it clear here that I repeatedly said that whatever was said was a rumour that couldnt be substantiated or made public.
As Taiwo emerges as chairman

The South West All Progressives Congress (APC) United Kingdom, has inaugurated a new caucus of executives to pilot the affairs of the body, ably led by the Chairman Hon. Andrew Taiwo.

Hon. Taiwo is to coordinate the Southwest caucus executive peopled by other eleven distinguished personalities and members nominated and elected across the six states of the southwest zone.

The caucus is saddled with the responsibility of ensuring political harmony and peace as well as championing the cause of their members in the diaspora.

The oath taking session was administered by a revered leader of the group Otunba Ayo Balogun.

The newly inaugurated Chairman Hon.Taiwo will be working for the good of the group with Hon Abiodun Ali the vice Chairman (Lagos State), Hon. Ayo Adigun the secretary (Ondo State), Alhaji Oguntade the Treasurer (Oyo State), the Welfare Secretary Princess Ladigbolu (Oyo State), Financial Secretary Hon. Ayokunle Agunbiade (Ekiti State), Publicity Secretary, Councillor (UK) Hon. Tunde Ajisola (Ekiti State) and the caucus Woman Leader. Pastor Margaret Apoeso.

Others are Organizing Secretary ceded to (Lagos State), the Youth Leader Mr. Kayode Ojelade (Ogun State), Prince Olagbegi (Ondo State) the Deputy Organizing Secretary, while Mr. Alalade (Osun State) was elected Assistant Secretary.

In his acceptance speech Hon.Taiwo the new chairman recounted the importance of the southwest in the evolution of diaspora polity, Southwest is the mother of all party caucuses.

The whole six states in the southwest are one, that is why we call it the Southwest region.For me I am really honoured and grateful to you all who elected me to serve in this position for the good of southwest.

Southwest is the mother of all Nigeria political party in UK for obvious reasons, being the first Nigeria political group in United Kingdom because southwest is the pioneer of Nigeria politics in UK.

For that I take this position seriously, and I promise I will do all my best to serve you all and work hard to move Southwest forward 

Giving words of advice to the newly inaugurated executives Otunba Femi Adenuga one of the revered personalities in the group, from Lagos State charged them to guide against division within their ranks, he implored them to work together involving all the representations from the six states of the southwest.

Prince Olukoga a stakeholder in the group also corroborated the stance of Otunba Adenuga on the need to have a united front.

Other Party leaders that spoke at the inauguration were, Revered Leader, Hon. Kolawole Saidu (Former Oyo State UK chairman) Hon Gbenla, the current Oyo State UK Chairman, Hon. Femi Durodola ( Former APC UK Secretary) was also in tandem with the need to forge ahead positively with clear set goals.

Hon. Francis Akpan-Inwang and Chief Mrs Oluwa Funmilayo Akpan- Inwang (Former Ogun State APC UK Chairperson), Hon. Jerry Adetona (Osun State interim Chairman), Chief Emeka (APC UK South East Region) Chairman. Hon Don Anyiam (South East Secretary) and others.
The untold story why the army boys struck in 1966: Nigeria will continue to make motions without movement and stumble from one major crisis to another until the spirits of murdered Ndigbo are appeased in two ways: an unreserved apology by whoever happens to be President on behalf of Nigerians and a penitent nation to Ndigbo; and payment of appropriate reparations to the living relatives of those whose destinies were abrogated and /or had their properties confiscated in the present-day Rivers State under the facade of a highly preposterous and reprehensible Abandoned Property government policy.

Like every other human being, Senate Minority Whip Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe isnt perfect. He has his foibles and made a fair share of unforced errors. But since this piece isnt about him, suffice to say hes a well-respected street smart politician and one of the finest that ever sat in the hallowed Upper Chamber. He reminds me so very much of the charismatic and eclectic Second Republic Sen. Victor Akan (NPN-Oron).

In an interview published by the Daily Independent, Sen. Abaribe bared his mind on the controversies trailing the alleged budget padding and attendant suspension of Sen. Abdul Ningi. A lot has already been written and said about the specifics and the details of what exactly happened but I was absolutely riveted by an excerpt of the interview.

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Daily Independent: Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele was saying that (Ningis allegation and rush to the press) was part of a subterranean ground attempt to unseat Sen. Godswill Akpabio as (Senate) President; do you see a case to that?

Sen. Abaribe: On the subterranean move, I can say that for Sen. Opeyemi, there is an Igbo adage that says that a palm wine tapper does not say everything he sees on top of the palm tree. There are always subterranean moves in every gathering and sometimes you may just leave it and sometimes you may have to make it open. I think (Sen. Bamidele) decided to bring it out so that everybody can rest. No system can stay without having resentment and so forth. It is normal in our political system.

The last sentence in the foregoing excerpt got me thinking real hard. As I went down the memory lane right from the period of the struggle for independence by the nationalists to flag independence, the January 15, 1966 military coup and the maltreatment of Ndigbo within the Nigerian Project, its as plain as daylight for all to see: an orchestrated Igbophobia that has continually spun subterranean moves and an admixture of resentment, fear, envy, jealousy and hatred against Ndigbo. Its my hope that bringing it out would enable everybody to rest.

The government of the First Republic was based on a federal variant of the Westminster parliamentary system, with a Nigerian Prime Minister as the Head of Government and the British monarch as titular Head of State, until the country became a republic in October 1963. The country was split into three distinctive geopolitical spheres, each headed by a Premier. A fourth, the Midwest Region, was created in 1964.

The creation of the Midwest was essentially a joint subterranean move against the Obafemi Awolowo-led Action Group in the Western Region by the Northern Peoples Congress (NPC) led by Ahmadu Bello and the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), later rechristened National Council of Nigerian Citizens to conform with the popular acronym) led by Nnamdi Azikiwe, as payback for the opposition party chieftains equally dogged but futile subterranean move to carve out a Cross River-Ogoja-Rivers (COR) Region from the Eastern Region.

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Towards the ending of the colonial era, a subterranean move was made by the South to follow Ghanas example and table a motion for independence in 1958, even when the North was ill-prepared. Not surprisingly, the NPC correctly deciphered that it was a gambit by the more cosmopolitan and educated Southerners to subject the North to a servile existence considering the wide gulf in their respective human development indices.

Thats why its rather ironic to hear the Middle Belt people whining about how theyre being marginalised by the Hausa/Fulani oligarchy. As a matter of fact, as soon as the regionalisation policy took effect, Northern leaders retained the services of expatriates because they were regarded as transients but greatly feared the possibility of a regional civil service being dominated by Southerners.

It was this palpable fear and the policy of strictly limiting the recruitment of Southerners into the Northern regional service that opened up vistas of opportunity for Middle Beltans by way of university admissions, scholarships, technical jobs and an astonishing preponderance in all ranks of the Nigeria Army. The NPC also made it a top priority to secure Northern representation in senior positions of the Federal service  and no prize for correctly guessing which segment of the North profited the most from the ensuing Apartheid-like recruitment policy.

And despite the fact that no top military officer from the Middle Belt was killed in the 1966 coup, they were the ones  and Christians at that!  who chose to weep louder than the bereaved, did the unsolicited bidding of their benefactors by ensuring that the number of defenceless Nigerians of Igbo extraction massacred in Benue and Plateau Provinces exceeded the combined number nationwide! They shouldnt expect to eat their cake and still have it.

The 1959 national election was clearly won by the NPC, contrary to opinions then circulating in the South. How couldnt they have won when, thanks to their chicanery, the colonialists conducted a census on the eve of their exit that saw the Northern Region inexplicably gaining more seats in the parliament than both Eastern and Western regions combined! This was a subterranean move that would cement Northern dominance in Nigerian politics till date.

Another subterranean move came when the leader of the NPC with the majority in the Parliament, Ahmadu Bello, opted to become the Premier of the North, despatching his deputy to Lagos to assume the office of Prime Minister. Southern politicians immediately sniffed mischief and resented the very notion of a Federal Government controlled by proxy by a regional leader through his surrogate, Tafawa Balewa. But their initial huffing and puffing soon fizzled out after Ziks NCNC eagerly embraced an offer to form a government with Bellos NPC just to game Awo and his AG.

The NPC with the collaboration of the newly-formed National Democratic Party (NDP) led by S.L. Akintola, who had succeeded Awo as Premier when the AG leader opted to serve as the Leader of the Opposition in parliament, but who was at loggerheads with the Ikenne sage, filed a treasonable felony lawsuit against Awo, for allegedly attempting to overthrow an elected government in a brazen attempt to remove him from the political space.

Being a criminal case required that it be proven beyond a shadow of doubt. But despite the flimsiness of the evidence presented by the governments star witnesses, Awo was incarcerated and sent to the Calabar Prison. Given that Akintola, very much like Macbeth, had murdered sleep, he himself could no longer sleep with both eyes closed. He presided over the most lawless and unruly era in Western Region, earning the latter the despicable sobriquet the Wild-Wild West.

Prepare yourself because we are now about to enter uncharted territory. Many people might have heard when Prime Minister Balewa announced to a bewildered nation on Thursday, 13 January 1966, that the Federal Government had no interest in interfering in the Western Region. Why would he when his puppet on a leash was supposedly in charge? But not many were aware that the very next day, Friday, 14 January, Akintola got into a huddle with Bello in Kaduna nor were details of the parley ever made public.

It was, however, an open secret that at the same time, a top-notch security conference was being held in Lagos that was attended by the armys A-list, giving credence to rumours that Balewa was on the verge of using military might to crack down on perpetrators of the infamous wetie practices. This might have constituted the last straw that broke the camels back  and the Five Majors struck about 24 hours later!  perhaps in a bid to nip a potentially catastrophic misuse of the army in the bud.

The coup wasnt intended to deliver any special dividends per se to Ndigbo. As a matter of fact, many of the subalterns who executed the coup have openly admitted through books and speeches that their plan was to eliminate the political elite, release Awo from prison and install him Prime Minister. Unfortunately, those sent to kill top politicians of Igbo extraction, such as Zik, Eastern Region Premier Michael and Midwest Region Premier Dennis Osadebay, inexplicably failed to do so, even as the putsch cost leaders in the North and West their lives.

And voila! It was instantly interpreted as an Igbo coup for which thousands of innocent Ndigbo were inhumanly tortured and murdered in one of the worst pogroms in human history  about another two million were deliberately starved to death as a war strategy or lost their lives in a civil war forced on them.

Let me categorically aver that Nigeria will continue to make motions without movement and stumble from one major crisis to another until the spirits of murdered Ndigbo are appeased in two ways: an unreserved apology by whoever happens to be President on behalf of Nigerians and a penitent nation to Ndigbo; and payment of appropriate reparations to the living relatives of those whose destinies were abrogated and /or had their properties confiscated in the present-day Rivers State under the facade of a highly preposterous and reprehensible Abandoned Property government policy. How one can abandon his cherished property in his own country continues to beggar belief. But true justice shall surely prevail in the end.
As a philosopher, one statement that makes so much sense to me is that which says that the first step in every initiative is the most important.

Another one of those philosophies that is endearing to me too is the latin maxim that says: nemo dat quod non habet, meaning that you cant give what you dont have.

This is exactly because the debate and conversations around the thematic area of good governance cant be made completely understood without a focus on the capacity, capability and competencies that those engaging in running government ought to possess as their qualitative attributes.

The aforementioned phrases have come into play when out of curiosity, I decided to visit the websites of some states in Nigeria and from what I found out, I must state that a lot of these sub-national governments need to buckle up and do a lot of catching up.

However, a visit to the official website of the government of Abia State gladdens my heart because right from onset any researcher could immediately find the basics on what the government of Dr. Alex Otti is all about. The website begins by welcoming readers and then immediately went on to discuss the central mantra and the strategic mandates of the government under Governor Alex Otti. And there is evidence that the website is progressively updated by the administrator.

It was this organisational and methodical appearance of the website of Abia State that actually conveyed the message that all that we have seen happening in Abia State conform to the good governance standards. Although there are areas that improvements are needed, but from the word go, there is empirical evidence that here is a governor who knows his onions and has a total comprehension of what good governance means in pragmatic and practical application.

Also, most of the programmes rolled out in this dispensation by the Abia State administration have offered us the reality that the promotion and protection of the human rights of the citizens are of higher priority to the current administration in Abia State. I must say that what I have seen in Abia State remind me of what the constitution prescribed for governments both at the national and sub-national levels.

Specifically, the Nigerian constitution in section 16 (2), provides that: The State shall direct its policy towards ensuring:

(a) the promotion of a planned and balanced economic development;

(b) that the material resources of the nation are harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good;

(c) that the economic system is not operated in such a manner as to permit the concentration of wealth or the means of production and exchange in the hands of few individuals or of a group; and

(d) that suitable and adequate shelter, suitable and adequate food, reasonable national minimum living wage, old age care and pensions, and unemployment, sick benefits and welfare of the disabled are provided for all citizens.

The above provision of the constitution seems to be the fundamental principle of so much of what is going on in Abia state now. Then a closer analysis of the infrastructural and policy frameworks being put in place by the current administration in Abia State government have motivated us to look at what the United Nations has to say on good governance.

The UN asked, What is good governance? It then explained as follows: Governance refers to all processes of governing, the institutions, processes and practices through which issues of common concern are decided upon and regulated. Good governance adds a normative or evaluative attribute to the process of governing. From a human rights perspective it refers primarily to the process whereby public institutions conduct public affairs, manage public resources and guarantee the realisation of human rights.

The UN affiliated research stated that while there is no internationally agreed definition of good governance, it may span the following topics: full respect of human rights, the rule of law, effective participation, multi-actor partnerships, political pluralism, transparent and accountable processes and institutions, an efficient and effective public sector, legitimacy, access to knowledge, information and education, political empowerment of people, equity, sustainability, and attitudes and values that foster responsibility, solidarity and tolerance.

In summary, the study by the UN which we are citing here concludes that good governance relates to the political and institutional processes and outcomes that are necessary to achieve the goals of development. The true test of good governance is the degree to which it delivers on the promise of human rights: civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights. The key question is: are the institutions of governance effectively guaranteeing the right to health, adequate housing, sufficient food, quality education, fair justice and personal security?

Key attributes of good governance

The Human Rights Council has identified the key attributes of good governance:

transparency

responsibility

accountability

participation

responsiveness (to the needs of the people)

It then posed the key question of how are good governance and human rights linked?

Good governance and human rights are mutually reinforcing. Human rights standards and principles provide a set of values to guide the work of governments and other political and social actors. They also provide a set of performance standards against which these actors can be held accountable. Moreover, human rights principles inform the content of good governance efforts: they may inform the development of legislative frameworks, policies, programmes, budgetary allocations and other measures. We will therefore begin by providing a blow by blow account of our findings regarding governance at play in Abia State by Governor Alex Otti.

We begin with the biggest step the Abia State government did to reduce the cost of governance which is the termination of further payments of pensions and juicy allowances to former Governors and their Deputies.

Governor Alex Otti explained that the recent scrapping of pension for former Governors and their Deputies in the state was not to witch-hunt his predecessors as being misconstrued by some persons, but to reduce the cost of governance.

Otti who spoke during a follow-up retreat for Heads of Ministries Departments and Agencies, MDAs, on strategies to shore up the Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, of the state, maintained that the action was a necessary step to take for the good of the masses.

The Governor said that under his watch, public funds would not be shared among few individuals but equitably deployed to develop the state.

So, when you saw that we put through our resolve to cut cost of governance by stopping frivolous payments to people who have left government (former Governors and their Deputies), it is because we just believe that the right thing should be done.

Very soon we will also be former Governors, so the policy is not targeted at anyone, its targeted at good governance, its targeted at reduction in the cost of governance. And quite frankly, we believe it is the right thing to do.

Not done with establishing the principles of accountability and transparency, the government expressed its commitment to implement a holistic development agenda, saying the economic programme of his administration is structured to achieve balanced development of the state.

Governor Alex Otti stated this at the flag-off ceremony of the 11km Nunya-Eluama road in Isuikwuato Local Government, off Enugu Port Harcourt expressway.

The event, which attracted many stakeholders from Isuikwuato, including the former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Azubuike Ihejirika, underscored the importance of the abandoned road to the economic growth of the area.

Otti said his government was being very strategic in its approach to governance in order to carry every segment of the state along and achieve even development.

He noted that aside from the road reconstruction projects going on simultaneously in Umuahia and Aba, he had entered the rural communities to extend the infrastructure development to them.

The Abia governor explained the necessity for improving the rural infrastructure as location of some ventures were specially suited for the rural communities while some could only thrive in the urban centres.

For us, every part of Abia is important in the new Abia, he said, adding that with good infrastructure in the rural areas, farmers would have easy access to the cities to market their produce.

Another aspect of the quality governance is on provision of practical infrastructure in the state and this revolutionary objective has elicited the excitement of the citizens as was recently recorded at the Isuikwuato Local Government.

The media reported that there was excitement in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State on Tuesday as Governor Alex Otti flagged off the long-awaited construction of an 11.7-kilometer road in the LGA.

Hailing the roads significance, Hon. Lucky Johnson, representing Isuikwuato State Constituency, called it the heart of Isuikwuato and a vital link connecting Enugu State to Port Harcourt and Umuahia.

When completed, the road is expected to reduce travel time and boost the sale of farmers agricultural products by enabling easier access to markets in Umuahia and Aba.

The projects impact is anticipated to extend beyond transportation, with Hon. Johnson pointing to a new fuel station already under construction near the road as a sign of the potential development projects in the LGA.

We in the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA) just like most other observers have often expressed surprise how the Abia governor is doing so much projects at the same time when it is self evident that his predecessor left the state in financial tatters.

The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, had recently said the State was left in a very bad shape by his predecessor, Okezie Ikpeazu.

Otti said this when he appeared on Channels TVs Politics Today on Thursday while responding to a question on how he met the state when he assumed office in May, 2023.

Absolutely, very, very bad shape, but I am not complaining. I have folded my sleeves and I am just dealing with what I met here, Otti, who was elected on the platform of the Labour Party, LP, said.

He wondered what his predecessor used the money he borrowed for, since there is nothing to show for it.

My worry is not really about debt, it is about what the debt is used for. If you inherited a debt profile of N34.4 billion by May 29, 2015 and eight years later you ran that debt to about N192.2 billion; I really cant see anything that you have done with the money, salaries were not being paid, pensioners were being owed, infrastructure was decaying, the place got into ruins, schools were run down completely, hospitals were dilapidated.

So, the issue is where did the money go? If I am going to take debt, it is going to go into regenerative expenditure. But when you are taking loans and you are running the state into debt, just for consumption, you are not investing in the state; you are not paying salaries; thats actually what I was talking about, he said.

Another fascinating story about the government of Abia State is what the government is doing in the area of providing economic empowerment to the women of Abia State, the Governor Alex Otti of Abia State says he has approved immediate disbursement of N100,000 interest free-loan to Abia women entrepreneurs among other operators of small and medium enterprises in rural communities.

This is as he said that his administration had shown unprecedented regard for women as four women occupy very sensitive portfolios in his cabinet; while 17 out of 24 Permanent Secretaries in the state are women.

Otti who stated this in his good will message to Abia women as they mark the 2024 International Womens Day, said his administration would continue to pursue women advancement.

This is in fulfillment of our campaign promise to empower our women in building their businesses at the grassroots and help to create wealth across the state. No less than 50 persons per ward are expected to receive the sum of N100,000, each, Otti said.

Otti in the message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Kazie Uko, restated his commitment to empower more women in the state.

Speaking on the theme of this years IWD, Inspire Inclusion, Governor Otti said his government had been deliberate about empowering women through improved budgetary allocation to the various sectors that have direct implications on the welfare and well-being of the women and the girl child as well as appointment of women to strategic positions in government.

Here, in Abia State, our administration is highly gender sensitive and this has seen to the increased number of women appointed into the State Executive Council and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government.

It is worthy of note that women occupy strategic positions in health, education , agriculture and poverty alleviation in the State Executive Council, while out of the total 24 Permanent Secretaries in the state, 17 of them are women. This is unprecedented in the history of the state civil service.

Our administration has also demonstrated commitment in the payment of counterpart fund for the Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP); a project that seeks to support improved livelihoods for women in targeted areas of Abia and Nigeria, by influencing social norms related to gender equality, promoting social inclusion and establishing institutional platforms that improve womens access to critical life, business and technical skills, Governor Otti enumerated in a statement issued from his office.

One other key step that needed to be taken is to do whatever is administratively possible, to reduce the burdens of taxation on the people given the high unemployment rate in the state and everything must be done to keep social services of healthcare, educational empowerment, security of lives and property and promoting harmony amongst the different communities that make up Abia State should be accorded the highest priority just as the restructuring and revamping of the industrial schemes in Aba to reposition that great town to regain her frontline role as the leader in commerce and trade in the West African region should be sustainably enforced and implemented.

Our dear Ariaria International Market must be totally upgraded and flooding is a key environmental degradation that needs to be frontally tackled. The state should observe zero-tolerance to procurement corruption and block all avenues for leakages that encourage corruption and bad governance. I recommend that the Federal Government should accord Abia State a special provision of ecological funds so it can very well confront the challenges being posed by environmental issues of erosion and flooding.

The plan to eliminate touting in Abia State should be logically implemented to enhance human rights and rule of law. Let the state government of Abia work out partnership with credible private sector organisations, the religious communities and town unions to mainstream the provision of social services to reach the grassroots. We also observed that the state assembly is comparatively independent and this is good. Let the welfare and wellbeing of workers and especially teachers of our children be of the highest priority. Teachers in rural areas should be motivated with good enough incentives so the will give out their best to children at the grassroots.

Abia State must continue to carry out deliberate and intentional policies to reduce the cost of governance and it must be made abundantly clear to all public office holders that their appointments and or elections are not opportunities for pecuniary benefits or for cruising around in foreign made exotic SUVs but they should take their involvement in leadership at the three Arms of government of Abia State as a rare privilege and call to give selfless service.

Those in public office and the good people of Abia State should be adequately informed on why each person should always ask what can I do to make the state better and not what can I gain from the state? One model of this lifestyle is the founder of UNUBIKO FOUNDATION: Chief James Ume. I recommend that citizens especially those amongst the highly privileged class should emulate the charitable works being done for Abia people by this foundation that is incidentally based in Abuja.

*Emmanuel Onwubiko is the head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and was NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA.
Nigerian comedian Seyitan Lawrence Aletile, better known as Seyi Law, and his wife Stacey Aletile, are celebrating their 13th wedding anniversary.

Seyi Law took to his Instagram page to share cherished moments captured in lovely photos of their journey together over the years.

Reflecting on their union, the comedian described their marriage as amazingly beautiful, emphasizing the 13 years since they exchanged vows surrounded by family and friends.

He extended warm anniversary wishes to his wife and their children, expressing gratitude for the precious years they have shared.

Seyi Law said he is looking forward to creating more memories together as they continued their journey through life.

Its amazingly beautiful that its been 13 years since we walked down the aisle with family, friends, well-wishers, and many unknowns cheering us on.

Happy Wedding Anniversary to US and the not-so-little ones we have made.

Lets make a dozen more as we keep journeying around the sun, he wrote.

See more photos below:

KanyiDaily recalls that Seyi Law recently faced criticism after referring to Labour Party governorship candidate in Lagos, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, as the son of a returned slave.
President Bola Tinubu has been urged by a former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu to negotiate with bandits.

According to him, the Federal Government should use non-kinetic approach in dealing with the menacing phenomenon of banditry in Nigeria.

Shittu, an ex-minister in the cabinet of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, stated this on Channels Televisions Politics Today programme on Tuesday.

If I am in position, it is not too late to use non-kinetic neasures in negotiating with bandits, giving them a promising future. Let us retain them. Many of them are very intelligent, many of them are able-bodied, Shittu said, adding that the military spending on equipment far outweighed the non-kinetic approach.

The ex-minister said the millions of out-of-school children in Northen Nigeria is a production factory for banditry in the country.

Like Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, Shittu opined that the government should negotiate with bandits for the purpose of resettling, rehabilitating and retraining them.
Actor Jide Awobona has issued a warning to people on social media.

He stated that true love is not about wishing people happy birthday.

He spoke while weighing into the social media saga between his colleagues, Dayo Amusa and Femi Adebayo.

Taking to his Instagram page to share a cryptic message, he stated that he hopes the brouhaha buttresses his point that true love is beyond happy birthday on feed posts and partying together.

He said there was no real love on the street, asking God for help.

He stated: I hope all these brouhaha will help to buttress my point that TRUE LOVE is beyond HAPPY BIRTHDAY on feed posts, partying together and all there is no real love on that street. God help me, your love is sufficient for me.
BENIN  The Youth wing of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Edo state chapter has condemned in its entirety the kidnap of the National Youth Leader of the party, Hon. SKE Udeh Okoye in Enugu state.

In a statement issued by the state youth leader, Arc. Thaddeus Irabor, described Hon. Udeh Okoyes abduction as not only unacceptable but absolutely condemnable.

Irabor said, the dastardly act carried out against the number one youth in the main opposition party, who was on his farm at Ohumagu, Agbaogwugwu area of Enugu state on Monday, has further exposed the glaring abysmal performance in the poorly managed security architecture under President Muhammadu Buharis watch, which is not different from what the PDP has consistently told Nigerians.

Demanding the unconditional release of Okoye, Arc. Irabor, therefore challenge the leadership of the various security agencies to rise up to the occasion by ensuring all is done to rescue Hon. Okoye from his captors and in addition, do its best in taming the gory stories of kidnapping, maiming, raping and killings that has bedeviled the APC government.
Fire incident at Rivers

Twin boys, aged 2, were burnt to death when a fire razed their home while their parents were away.

According to a Facebook user, Pepnosy Amadi who shared the story, the incident happened on Sunday, February 2, in Rivers state.

Amadi said the boys were home alone after their father left for work and the mother allegedly left for a joint to have the hot drink known locally as ogogoro.

While both parents were away, the house caught fire and the boys couldnt be saved in time, a neighbour said on Facebook.

Videos shared online show residents looking on helplessly as the house was razed to the ground.



A police van later arrived the scene of the incident and residents can be heard complaining about their late response. The residents mentioned that the police arrived more than an hour after they called to inform them of the fire.

The neighbour who shared the story said this isnt the first time the mother is losing a child because of her alcohol habit. She alleged that the same woman previously lost her 7-year-old daughter to a ritualist due to her negligence brought on by her addiction to ogogoro.

Sharing videos of the fire, Pepnonsy Amadi wrote:

IT WAS A BLACK SUNDAY INDEED



Never wanted to post this but couldnt bear keeping silent anymore



This happened close to my street early Sunday morning (5 oclock) we were woken up by the screams of people living around with the fear of what might happen to other buildings around and flames of fire.



The said family lived in a Batcher, a man his pregnant wife and two twin boys aged 2yrs.

The information gathered was that early that morning the husband left the house to work, while the wife also left to go take a shot of ogogoro (kai-kai) locking up her twin boys inside the room with a lighted candle, nobody knew how the candle started the fire but because there was a gas cylinder inside the same apartment the cylinder exploded roasting the two innocent twins to death not only that alot of buildings were burnt too causing some people to be homeless, properties were lost too.

The lady in question is a native of Ikwerre in Rivers State and according to people living around they said drinking ogogoro is her every morning routine and she always lock those kids inside whenever shes going out, this same woman as the story was being told lost her 7 yr old daughter to ritualist to this same ogogoro issue



Then I ask is she cursed or shes stupid???



Since Sunday Ive been imagining the faith of those two innocent kids, were they re and if their souls could ever find peace because it was a tragic death, at the same time I ve been thinking out loud the type of mother that did this to her own special gift from God, if she truly deserve to be called a mother??? If she really deserve the gift of children in this life??? wasting the life of her twin boys because of her foolishness and one shot of schnapp.



The only thing I asked is for God in his infinite mercy to grant those kids eternal rest



Negligence of a mother.





Watch the videos below.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Thursday demanded the resignation of the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Ahmed Idris, over his failure to release remit deductions of University workers salaries for the month of January three weeks after payment of their salaries

A release jointly signed by the Ibadan Zonal Coordinator of the Union, Dr Ade Adejumo and University of Ibadan Chairman Professor Ayo Akinwole stated that it was a deliberate plan to make university workers suffer.

The ASUU bosses described the AGF as not only wicked and fraudulent but a calculated attempt to unduly punish devoted university staff and make them vulnerable in a country that anything under the present government barely works.

While demanding for the immediate release of the withheld deductions, ASUU stated that the welfare of her members will not be mortgaged for anything.

ASUU then stated that the office of Accountant General needs refocusing and overhauling following several unanswered queries over IPPIS fund to the office by the National Assembly.

The AGF should resign with immediate effect for gross incompetence and abuse of office for his failure to release all the deductions from University workers salaries for the month of January.

All deductions including cooperatives, levies, bank loans and check off are still being withheld 3 weeks after the payment of January salaries.

This wicked action by the office of the AGF has created an undue hardship on the workers who are involved in the cooperative societies and other schemes through direct deductions from their salaries.

We demand immediate release of the seized fund with interests and the resignation of the AGF. There is urgent need to overhaul and refocus the office of the accountant general to be able to serve the nation better than it is currently doing.




Chelsea midfielder, Tiemoue Bakayoko, is set to leave the club before the European transfer window shuts down on September 2 after agreeing on personal terms with Monaco.





According to Express UK, Bakayoko will join the Ligue 1 side on a season-long loan deal that can be made permanent for 32million next summer.





Saga Gist had reported that Bakayoko is set to leave Chelsea for a return to Monaco, his former club.





Monaco want to take their former player back on loan after the 25-year-old failed to meet the expectations at Stamford Bridge.





Bakayoko spent last season on loan with Italian giants, AC Milan.





The Frenchman has been deemed surplus to requirements by the Blues hierarchy.





He joined Chelsea from Monaco for 40million in July 2017.
BLOOMINGTON  A Bloomington man was sentenced to 20 years in prison this week after a McLean County jury found him guilty last year on methamphetamine charges.

Robert E. Dodd, 56, was convicted in November 2023 of three counts of unlawful delivery of methamphetamine; two additional counts were dismissed.

Prosecutors previously said Dodd sold meth to a confidential source working with Illinois State Police Task Force 6, and his drug-related criminal history spanned two decades.

He was sentenced Monday to 20 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections on each count, to be served concurrently, according to court documents. He had credit for 272 days already served.

Dodd must serve at least 50% of the sentence before he is eligible for mandatory supervised release, formerly known as parole.

Anti-abortion, abortion rights groups rally outside the Supreme Court
BLOOMINGTON  A Fairbury teen pleaded guilty Wednesday to a charge in connection with a fire and vandalism last July at Hinthorn Chapel.

Hunter D. Henry, 19, was initially charged in August with one count of burglary and one count of criminal defacement of property.

Henry pleaded guilty Wednesday to Class 1 burglary, and the other charge was dismissed as part of his plea agreement.

Prosecutors said emergency services were called to Hinthorn Chapel near Lake Bloomington about 7:30 a.m. July 7 to find it on fire and defaced with spray paint. After putting out the fire, authorities determined the suspects had gained access to the chapel by kicking in a wooden door.

Prosecutors said Henry admitted to entering the chapel through the kicked-in door and spray painting the chapel. He told police the other suspect, 21-year-old Austin S. Waller, had kicked in the door and lit the chapel on fire.

Judge Amy McFarland accepted the plea agreement and sentenced Henry to 36 months of second chance probation, which means the charge will be dismissed if he successfully completes the probation term. As part of that probation, he will be required to complete 30 hours of community service and undergo three random drug screenings.

After the plea hearing, Henrys attorney, Stephanie Wong, said her client was very remorseful for his actions, and he was not the leader in this case.

Waller, of Bloomington, was also charged in the incident with arson, burglary and criminal defacement of property.

He pleaded guilty to one count of arson in February and was sentenced to six years in the Illinois Department of Corrections with credit for 177 days served, to be followed by up to one year of mandatory supervised release, according to online court records.

Photos: Europes sacred sites draw record crowds of tourists
STANFORD  Olympia FFA's Reed Naughton was selected as the state FFA proficiency winner in agriculture services.

Naughton, the son of Dan and Amy Naughton of rural Atlanta, previously was recognized as the chapter, section and district awardee in the area.

He was selected as the state winner by a committee of agriculture teachers, industry friends, parents and volunteers knowledgeable in this work-based area, who reviewed their records online then conducted interviews at Mt. Zion High School on March 23.

Naughton is a member of the Olympia FFA Chapter of the Illinois Association FFA. Illinois FFA recognizes students in 48 different areas based on work-based learning, also known as Supervised Agricultural Experiences, or SAE.

FFA members who demonstrate outstanding agricultural skills and competencies through record keeping, leadership and scholastic achievement may be considered for the state award.

SAEs allow students to learn by doing by either owning and operating an agricultural business, working or serving an internship at an agriculture-based business or conducting an agriculture-based scientific experiment and reporting results. Naughton's SAE involves him working for his family's auction service.

Naughton has been in involved in other agriculture education and FFA activities such as parliamentary procedure, livestock judging, dairy cattle judging, public speaking, and land-use CDE's. He is serving as Olympia FFA vice president, led by agriculture teacher and FFA adviser Bryce Hoffman, and he is a leader in coordinating community service projects.

Naughton is now eligible to compete in the national FFA awards selection process in July. He will be recognized with a plaque at the 96th Illinois FFA State Convention June 11-13, made possible by gifts from individuals, businesses, corporations, and organizations through the Illinois Foundation FFA.

Photos: Roxana 56, Stanford Olympia 30, final
How Time Flies is a daily feature looking back at Pantagraph archives to revisit what was happening in our community and region.

100 years ago

March 27, 1924: "The Life of Our Saviour, Jesus Christ," will be presented by Bloomington Consistory Players at the Scottish Rite Temple on April 18, 19 and 20. More than 200 people will compose the cast and over $5,000 worth of scenery will be used. The production is staged and directed by Delmar D. Darrah.

75 years ago

March 27, 1949: John Krikos' strikingly designed Green Mill Cafe will open Wednesday, the longtime restaurant operator announced. Hand-wrought light fixtures coupled with a magenta and grey color palette add up to an unusual decorative scheme.

50 years ago

March 27, 1974: Normal taxpayers will get a 7% increase in tax bills. Bloomington residents will experience a slight drop. The Normal rate jumped about 32 cents for every $100 of assessed valuation. The new rate of $4.88 compares with $4.56 rate collected in 1973. Bloomington's rate is $5.22, a decrease of about 1.5 cents.

25 years ago

March 27, 1999: The idea behind Illinois State University's new Technology Education Learning Laboratory is simple: Manufacturers donate toys and gadgets developed to teach grade school and high school students about science, computers and other technical fields. ISU students will analyze and modify the donations to make them more effective in the classroom, sharing the feedback with the companies.

Vintage Pantagraph newspaper ads for medicine, 'magic' remedies Clover Blossom Extract - Nov. 15, 1883 St. Jacobs Oil - July 14, 1887 Castoria - July 26, 1892 Rheumatic Ring - May 29, 1894 Beefmalt - May 29, 1894 Wakefield's Cough Syrup - Feb. 13, 1908 S.S.S. - April 23, 1908 Olive Tablets - Nov. 20, 1911 Cold-go - Dec. 11, 1911 Dr. Danby - Dec. 11, 1911 Allcock Plasters - March 2, 1917 Olive Tablets - Feb. 23, 1918 Laxative Bromo Quinine - Oct. 16, 1918 Bayer Tablets of Aspirin - April 24, 1919 Bayer Tablets of Aspirin - April 29, 1919 Snake Oil - Nov. 22, 1919 Beecham's Pills - Nov. 22, 1919 Snake Oil - Nov. 29, 1919 Doan's Kidney Pills - March 8, 1920 Bayer Tablets of Aspirin - Sept. 21, 1920 J.C. Hutzell's Eczema Treatment - Nov. 11, 1922 Gude's Pepto-Mangan - April 2, 1923 O-Joy Corn Wafers - March 4, 1930 Dr. Pierce's Favorite Prescription - March 19, 1930 666 Tablets - March 25, 1930 Cuticura - March 25, 1930 Geo-Mineral - Dec. 8, 1948 Anacin - Jan. 16, 1963 Liquiprin - Aug. 27, 1970 Icy Hot - Nov. 20, 1977
BLOOMINGTON  The Illinois Prairie Community Foundation is seeking participants for the 12th annual Youth Engaged in Philanthropy, or YEP, program during the 2024-25 school year.

YEP is a program for high school students to learn about philanthropy by allocating grant funds to local nonprofits.

The program is open to students residing in McLean, DeWitt, Livingston and Logan counties and is limited to 20-25 participants.

YEP provides opportunities to build leadership and teamwork skills while engaging participants in a unique, philanthropic experience. YEP funds local youth-run or youth-oriented programs. Members will be responsible for developing grant guidelines and awarding $10,000 to selected youth-focused programs.

The online application can be completed online and is due by May 19.

For more information, contact program mentor Amanda Cole at amandal.cole@yahoo.com or 309-662-4477.

Photos: Youth Engaged in Philanthropy (YEP) Kavya Sudhir, Kellie Stempinski Maddison Murphy, Cheyenne Petersen Sarah Leddick, Jasmyn Jordan Jake Simonson, Divya Bhookya, Emma Watson, Ayushi Shah Jade Fung, Bobby Castillo, Thriambak Giriprakash Don and Tanya Murphy Cake Sandy McGhee, Jeremy LeFebre Collette Fung, Laura Meyer Jade Fung, Brian Whetsell, Calis Lim, Muskan Shah Abbey Nettleton, Grace Gauley Greg Meyer, Joni Painter Samantha Stevenson, Catherine Porter, Terry Lindberg Claire Crabill, EllaKate LeFebre Claire Crabill Brian Whetsell Logo Greg Meyer Full house Greg Meyer
CHICAGO  In response to a continuing measles outbreak, Chicago officials are speeding up the process for migrants living at a densely populated shelter to become fully vaccinated and protected against the disease.

Previously unvaccinated migrants will receive a second dose of the measles vaccine 28 days after the first dosage, extending a quarantine period for children under age 5 that was instated to monitor and protect the most vulnerable population, the Chicago Department of Public Health said Monday.

There have been 31 confirmed cases of measles in Chicago this year, 21 of which are in children under the age of 5. Seven cases have been reported in the city in the past week despite an initial wave of vaccines administered two weeks ago.

Most of the cases are concentrated in the citys largest shelter, which houses families and many young children at 2241 S. Halsted St. on the Lower West Side, officials said. There are currently over 23 active shelters run by the city and state housing more than 10,400 migrants as of Tuesday.

The uptick in confirmed measles cases comes even as the city says it has administered 4,500 vaccines since the first case was detected on March 7. Young children are especially vulnerable to disease after receiving the first dosage of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, said CDPH Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo Ige.

While the MMR vaccine is the best protection against the virus, children are at highest risk for contracting breakthrough measles after receiving one dose of the vaccine, especially those less than 5 years old. Were seeing some of these cases at the Halsted shelter [on the Lower West Side] which isnt surprising, Ige said in a release.

Over the weekend, Lake and Will County reported a measles case in each county. Both were said to have been associated with the outbreak in Chicago.

Symptoms for measles typically occur roughly 10 to 14 days after exposure and can cause a rash, high fever and, in some cases, can cause serious illness in young children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems, according to health officials.

While measles is one of the most contagious pathogens, vaccination protects against the disease in almost every circumstance, said University of Chicago Medicine pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. David Zhang.

Theres a very easy fix and thats getting vaccinated, Zhang said. It starts and ends with vaccination.

Vaccination can also help protect people who were recently exposed to the disease. If an exposed person receives the first dose of the vaccine within 72 hours, evidence shows that complications could be less severe and less contagious, Zhang said.

Most Americans are protected with the MMR vaccine, which is a requirement to attend K-12 schools in Illinois unless students have religious or medical exceptions or previously contracted the disease. Students living in temporary housing can also receive exemptions if they have difficulty accessing vaccines.

However, the migrant population is largely from Venezuela, where experts say there is no public health data due to a crippled economy and health infrastructure under the leadership of far-left President Nicolas Maduro. As a result, it is difficult to know exactly how many migrants are vaccinated when they arrive. And many have lost their documentation along their journeys here.

Earlier this month, a report provided to the Tribune by the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless showed that fewer than half of Chicago Public Schools students without stable housing had met all of the districts immunization requirements. Its possible not all of those students were missing the measles vaccination, coalition leaders said.

The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children receive the first dose of the vaccine after they turn 12 months old. Typically, children receive the second dose between the ages of four and six, but it can be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose, according to CDC recommendations.

The shelter where the outbreak occurred houses families and many young children are staying there.

In the days following the shelters initial outbreak, the citys Public Health Department said it vaccinated more than 900 residents in a vaccination campaign that included assistance from the CDC and aldermen. Another 700 migrants were found to already be immune from previous vaccination or infection, health officials said.

The city is instructing migrant families to quarantine children age 1 to 5 eligible for the vaccine until at least 21 days after they receive a second dosage of the vaccine, which means keeping them home from daycare or school. That brings the total quarantine time to 49 days after the first dosage for approximately 50 young children enrolled in early learning programs residing at the shelter, according to the public health department.

Dr. Colleen Nash, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at Rush University Medical Center, said if children or pregnant women didnt have the vaccine at the time of the infection, they could be at greater risk.

Those patients, if they are susceptible to infection, might be at risk for more severe infection, she said.

Medical professionals also warn that quarantine in the midst of an outbreak could put stress on migrant families new to the city.

They just had a treacherous journey, were put in conditions that may not be familiar, maybe they dont speak the language, so communicating whats happening to them, and how its happening and whats happening is really important, said Dr. Aarati Didwania, an adult physician and associate professor of medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Children in quarantine and exposed patients should also be monitored and assessed, Didwania said, with plenty of medicine and supplies available.

We also have to make sure we have the medicines to treat some of the symptoms that theyre having, she said. Are we taking care of them individually by giving them things like Tylenol and things to make them feel more comfortable?

Maria Perez, a volunteer with Southwest Collective, passed out milk formula to mothers staying inside the shelter on the Lower West Side on a recent afternoon. She said there is a lot of uncertainty among the asylum seekers.

Its not their fault they never got medical attention, she said. Now theyre afraid theyre going to have to pay for it  but theyre also afraid of catching it and not knowing what long-term effects it could have.

While Nash said she hadnt seen this situation before, she had seen similar outbreaks in different areas of the country.

With every infection, there will be cases, she said. It would be expected and not unusual.

Nubia Willman, chief programs officer for Latinos Progresando and former director of the Office of New Americans for former Mayor Lori Lightfoot said during COVID-19, the mayors engagement team administered vaccines in churches and prioritized specific areas around the city with high infection rates.

She said those efforts were localized and done through trusted stakeholders.

We saw success with COVID, ensuring that we were engaging with communities in a way that (responded to) their cultural identity, she said. Its important that is happening here.

Willman stressed the importance of having medical providers who engage with asylum seekers in a culturally competent way. Most of the 36,000 migrants who have arrived in Chicago since August 2022 have walked or ridden buses across several countries to arrive in the United States. Many say they have witnessed death or experienced abuse along their journeys.

Its very easy to group Latinos together and think that were a monolith. The reality is that were all very diverse, Willman said.

But Willman said it is more challenging for undocumented immigrants, not just migrants, to get access to healthcare resources.

Its always complicated to ensure that federal resources  however they come to us  are accessible for people without insurance and people without citizenship, she said.

Photos: Chicago Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2023 Brandon Johnson - 2023 Brandon Johnson - File Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022
BLOOMINGTON  Bloomington City Manager Tim Gleason could soon be leaving the Twin Cities for his former stomping grounds in Decatur.

Gleason confirmed in an interview with WJBC radio earlier this week that Decatur city officials have offered him "an opportunity to return" to the city where he served as top administrator before leaving for his current position in 2018.

Gleason has also received an offer to serve as a town manager in Arizona.

"So both those offers are on the table; I need to make a decision sometime in the very near future," he said, while leaving open the option of staying in Bloomington. "I do have three (options), and unfortunately, I'm gonna disappoint two."

But all signs are pointing to a second act in Decatur.

Just one day after Gleason's comments, the city of Decatur announced Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe will hold a Thursday afternoon press conference.

Though a topic was not specified in the press advisory, Moore Wolfe is expected to announce the selection of a new city manager who will succeed City Manager Scot Wrighton, who is retiring in May and took over after Gleason came to Bloomington.

Moore Wolfe, reached by Lee Enterprises on Wednesday, declined to comment on Gleason's remarks or the subject matter of Thursday's press conference.

Gleason did not immediately return a request for comment.

This comes just shy of a year after the Bloomington City Council created an additional deputy city manager position, which was filled by Jeff Jurgens, who served as Bloomington's corporation counsel for 10 years.

At the time, Gleason said he oversees 13 city departments and divisions while the Deputy City Manager Billy Tyus handles other duties and special projects. A restructuring was needed as part of an ongoing effort to improve operational efficiency and oversight, so the second deputy city manager role was created to share departmental oversight and other responsibilities, he said.

This potential resolution to Decatur's city manager search comes months after Wrighton, 66, announced plans to retire in May. He has been Decatur's top administrator for more than five years.

Decatur's form of government makes the city manager the head municipal executive, who oversees all city operations and is responsible for hiring and firing employees.

Before Wrighton, Gleason served in the role for two-and-a-half years. During his tenure, his goals included reshaping how the city managed its finances, tackling major infrastructure needs and improving its neighborhoods.

Faced with a declining population and tax base, he oversaw implementation of new revenue sources approved by the council, including increased utility rates and a new local motor fuel tax to pay for road work.

He also scrutinized the cost of city operations, from the refinancing of long-term municipal bonds, to consolidating and reorganizing staff departments and cutting the number of city employees. Gleason stressed building up the citys cash reserves, which officials said had dwindled to the point that only five days of operating expenses were on hand in December 2015.

Though he was "very satisfied in Decatur," Gleason told Herald & Review in 2018 that the Bloomington job was one of those opportunities where he "just had to give it a shot."

In his comments earlier this week, Gleason said he felt Bloomington "is in a very good spot," and he was "proud to be a part of that."

He called the opportunity to return to Decatur "very unique" and that "it's something that checks boxes for me.

"I like challenges," Gleason said.

Gleason is the only candidate who has been publicly linked to the Decatur position.

Deputy City Manager Jon Kindseth, Wrighton's No. 2 since 2019, confirmed to Lee Enterprises on Wednesday he was not a candidate for the top job.

"The position was never posted, that much I can say," Kindseth said. "I think it's certainly public at this point that the city kind of did an internal approach and found the person that they want and that's what they're ready to basically announce."

As they did with the search that led to Gleason's hiring in 2015 and Wrighton's hiring in early 2019, the city council retained Northbrook-based consulting firm GovHR USA to help with the search.

Services covered under the $18,500 contract, signed by Moore Wolfe in late November and obtained by Herald & Review via a public records request, included advertising the position, recruiting potential candidates, evaluating and screening potential candidates and aiding in the interview process.

But it was not immediately clear how expansive the headhunting firm's services were utilized in the search.

Gallery: Tim Gleason's career as Decatur city manager 032615-dec-loc-citymanagerpic2 051915-dec-loc-citymanagerpic Web only library board 112015-dec-loc-library sweeneysuit pic 0413 Decatur opportunity zones 060618-blm-loc-1manager 060618-blm-loc-5manager 060618-blm-loc-6manager 060618-dec-loc-gleason 061918-blm-loc-2blmanager Gleason and Bloomington aldermen
Jan. 31, 1973 - March 22, 2024

Dawn Marie Eckhoff, 51, passed away on March 22, 2024, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis.

She was the daughter of Dennis "Denny" Carls and the late Dorinda (Folkerts), born in Pontiac on January 31, 1973. She married Joel D. Eckhoff on August 10, 1996, in Flanagan, IL.

She is the mother of Sydney (Jonathan) Barth and Drew (fiance Maci) Eckhoff; grandma to Saige Barth; sister to Doug (Amber) Carls; and a favorite aunt of Dylan and Delaney Carls. She is also a daughter-in-law to Alvin (late) and Eileen (Ginzel) Eckhoff.

Dawn graduated as valedictorian from Flanagan in 1991. After that, she attended SIU and then Illinois State University where she received her Bachelor's degree in teaching. She began her career, while shortly after, returning to school to receive her Master's degree from Olivet. From then on, she taught within the Pontiac District 429 schools, ages Kindergarten to second grade. Dawn spent 28 years doing what she loved, while impacting many lives along the way.

In her free time, Dawn loved to lay by the pool, online shop, and enjoy McDonald's Happy Meals. Most importantly, she loved to spend time with her family and friends. She was especially excited to become a grandma to Saige Marie in 2023. She was a person that loved all and remained positive no matter the circumstances. To know Dawn was to love her, and she will be missed deeply by so many.

A Memorial Funeral Service is planned at 10:00 a.m. for Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the St. Petri Evangelical Lutheran Church in Flanagan, IL. Family and Friends are asked to arrive promptly for the 10:00 a.m. service. Immediately following services will be a Celebration of Life and time for visiting at Flanagan American Legion Post #456. Burial of the urn will take place at a later time.

Memorial contributions in Dawn's memory can be made to the St. Petri Evangelical Lutheran Church or Cancer Research. Cremation Rites have been accorded by Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home of El Paso, IL.

Memorials and condolences may be sent to the family at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) has told a meeting of global investors in Canada that MIIF is ready to co-invest with investors seeking opportunities into the minerals sub-sector in Ghana. This he said, is in line with the strategic objective of MIIF tosupport the quest to make Ghana the mining hub in Africa and localise value as much as possible.Koranteng was speaking at the 2024 Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC)Trade show held in Toronto, Canada. We are seeking co-investment partners in our bid to invest in the entire minerals value chain in Ghana. We are ready to co-invest and thereby create a de-risking mechanism for investors. Our emphasis is the development of the entire value chain, said Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng.



MIIF AS A PREFERRED PARTNER



We are building Africas biggest sovereign minerals fund, said Koranteng who has grown the Assets Under Management (AUM) of MIIF from circa $185 Million in 2020 to a current $550 million as of Dec 2023.



This is expected to exceed $1.2 Billion this first quarter of 2024 following the completion of a re-valuation of Ghanas free carried interest in some large-scale mines which MIIF is mandated by law to manage. The validation of the revaluation of these assets is being undertaken by an independent international audit firm. We have a robust pipeline of investments and have adopted an aggressive and revolutionary mechanism in expanding our royaltys base. The opportunities in Ghana are enormous and goes beyond gold for which Ghana is known for. The opportunities for investors also cover the salt sector, lithium, bauxite, iron ore, graphite, feldspar, diamonds, kaolin, chemical plants and refineries across the value delivery chains of each mineral type. We are inviting investors to seize these opportunities in the mining sector. Koranteng said.



INVESTMENTS IN THE CRITICAL MINERALS SECTOR



A reclassification of minerals such as Manganese, Graphite, Bauxite, Lithium and Salt as Priority Minerals has refocussed attention on their value chain development and value addition through deliberate investments by the Fund. We see vast opportunities in Manganese, Graphite, Lithium and Salt especially in this era of decarbonisation and the regionalisation of development and trade in Africa, Koranteng told investors.



At present, we are working on investments in graphite which has been found in commercial quantities in northern Ghana and closed a $32.9 million dollar equity stake in Atlantic Lithium, an Australian and UK listed company which has discovered commercial quantities of Lithium in Ewoayaa near Mankessim, in the Central region of Ghana. We are also working on other potential significant lithium finds in Ghana. MIIF intends to invest in the processing plants for these transitive minerals in line with President NanaAkufo-Addos vision of making Ghana a battery hub and a centre for Electronic Vehicles (EV) in Africa by leveraging the current Ghana automobile development plan.Ultimately, we want to become a centre for Electronic Vehicle (EV) assembling or manufacturing for the whole of Africa. said Koranteng.



MIIF is on the cusp of closing a $30 million investment in industrial salt from the Ada Songhor salt basin in Ghana which is managed by Electrochem Ghana. Salt





is an industrial mineral which has over 14,000 uses covering textiles, food processing, oil refining, pharmaceuticals, and caustic soda among others. Salt is therefore essential to the industrial needs of Ghana and West Africa. As the only prime industrial salt enclave in West Africa, the Ada project would feed the over 800,000.mt demand per annum in Nigeria alone for example. The Ada Songhor Salt project sits on 41,000 acres and at just 50% development, will become sub-Saharan Africas largest salt producing company ahead of Walvis Bay in Namibia.



LEVERAGING GHANAS GOLD TO CREATE MORE OPPORTUNITIES AND FURTHER LOCALISATION OF VALUE.



On Gold, Mr. Koranteng said, MIIF seeks to invest along the value chain with emphasis on Ghanaian mining support services.



MIIFs plan is to create a mining eco-system of opportunities through its investments especially in the gold mining sector which employs more than six million people directly and indirectly. In this regard, MIIF has initiated a six-year US$60 Million dollars investment program to support the small-scale mining sector which is fully indigenised and contributes up to 40% of Ghanas total gold output. However, the sector remains informal and fraught with illegal mining and environmental challenges. MIIFs initiative dubbed the Small-Scale Mining Incubation Program (SSMIP) will contribute to the formalisation of the sector and lead to the creation of well-structured Ghanaian junior mines. The SSMIP involves the rigorous selection of licenced small scale mining companies with proven reserves. MIIF plans to invest equity in selected mines who meet a well thought through criteria. The support includes corporate governance structures, the provision of machinery and other capital items, provision of working capital, provision of technical support for efficient mining and the provision of market access or offtake through the MIIF Gold Trade Desk. The long term objective is to take these small-scale companies public through the alternative exchange of the Ghana Stock Exchange. This is the vision of President Nana Akuffo Addo for this important sector. The President charges us to support the small-sector in a revolutionary manner which would lead to the creation of local Ghanaian mining champions. Mr. Koranteng emphasised.



DEVELOPING THE CAPITAL MARKET



MIIF has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ghana Stock Exchange which has over the past twenty years been one of the top performing bourses in Africa. The arrangement with the GSE is essentially on two pivots; First is to push mining





entities in which MIIF has investments to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE). An example of this is the Canadian listed Asante Gold Corporation in which MIIF has a significant holding. MIIF championed the listing of Asante Gold Corporation on the GSE. Atlantic Lithium, the Ewoyaa basin mining company which has MIIF as the 4th largest shareholder will also be listed on the Ghanaian bourse by the third quarter of 2024.



CREATION OF THE MIIF GOLD BACKED ETF



The second pivot of the agreement between MIIF and GSE is to list a Gold Backed Exchange Traded Fund by MIIF. This will be only the second gold backed ETF on the stock exchange. We are designing a gold backed Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) which would be listed on the GSE. This will make it the second gold backed ETF on the GSE after the ABSA SA led GLD product which is performing well. Our plan is to have this listed by end of the year. The ETFs and the listing of mining assets will deepen the Ghanaian capital markets and provide alternative investments or alternative asset classes to Pension Funds and investors as a whole. We believe this is an opportunity for Ghanaians in the diaspora and investors worldwide. Mr. Koranteng concluded.



ABOUT PDAC



Since being established in 1932, the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) has evolved to become the most representative community of mineral exploration and development around the world even though it mainly concerns itself with serving Canadian interests and public policy. Its annual trade show at the Metro Convention Centre in Toronto every March attracts at least 23,000 attendees and exhibitors from over 120 countries. The PDAC convention is reputed to be the most internationally patronized platform for networking, deal-making and discussing the current issues, trends and technologies shaping the mining industry.



ABOUT MIIF



MIIF was set up the Minerals Income Investment Fund Act, 2018 (Act 978) as amended to receive royalties from minerals accruing to government, invest those royalties to secure the future wealth of the country and also manage the equity interest of Ghana in large scale mining firms. Founding on this three-pronged mandate of the fund, the current management and board of MIIF have developed unique strategies for all 11 minerals that currently pay royalties to government. MIIF has significant equity in Asante Gold Corporation, a Ghanaian, Canadian and Frankfurt listed Explanation and Mining company and has closed a $32 million two-part investment in Atlantic Lithium an Australian company which has discovered commercial quantities of Lithium in Ghana.

Source: Minerals Income Investment Fund









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 Obuasi East Police Patrol Team in the Ashanti Region is currently holding one Lance Corporal Opoku Eric, 27, who claims to be a soldier stationed at Airborne -Tamale with staff ID No.AB699021.



The suspect currently on operations duty at Bawku and on fourteen (14) days leave was arrested at a mining site at Nyamesom near Kwabenakwa for attempted robbery.



The suspect, as gathered with three others on the run, well dressed in military uniforms, all wearing Jalabia a long Muslim dress, on top of their, uniforms, armed with a pump action gun, knives, and other offensive weapons had entered their mining site at Nyamesom near Kwabenakwa, amidst gunshots.



The Police when had the information quickly rushed to the scene and met the caller, Kingsley Akoyie, and other civilians numbering over twenty (20) who had arrested one of the soldiers.



A Police source confirmed that the suspect further stated that, he and three other soldiers, he mentioned as Musa Jafa of Tema Naval Base, went to the said mining site to look for chop money that they gave a warning shot to scare the workers and they took to their heels.



He added that he and his colleagues took hostage the excavator operator at the site, but luck eluded him, and was arrested by the miners and handed him over to the police whilst his colleagues escaped.



Subsequently, the Police took the soldier from the civilians, arrested and brought him to the Obuasi District Headquarters.



Meanwhile he has been detained for further investigations as efforts are being made to apprehend the other suspects.

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has commissioned the 2nd National Fire Service Training School built by the Akufo-Addo Government, bringing the total number of Fire Service Training Schools in Ghana to three.



Before the present government assumed office in 2017, Ghana had only one Fire Service Training School, located in Accra. About two months ago, Vice President Bawumia commissioned the nation's second Fire Service Training School in Wungu, in the North East Region.



Speaking at the commissioning of the third Fire Service Training School at Duayaw- Nkwanta in the Tano North District of the Ahafo Region, Dr. Bawumia said the commissioning marked the "unwavering commitment" of the Government towards strengthening the fire service and protecting lives and property.



"It is with immense pride and gratitude that I stand before you today, on this historic occasionthe commissioning of the first phase of the Duayaw Nkwanta Fire Academy and Training School. This milestone reflects the unwavering commitment of the Government of Ghana to the safety and well-being of its citizens," Dr Bawumia said.



"This training school stands as a testament to the government's pledge in 2017 to increase the number of training schools for the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) from one (1) to four (4) since independence," Dr. Bawumia added.



"We are happy to be here in less than seven (7) weeks following the successful commissioning of the Wungu Fire Academy and Training School in the North East Region on Friday, January 19, 2024, to commission the second and third Fire Academy and Training School in the country, specifically here at Duayaw Nkwanta in the Ahafo Region."



"Today's event which marks another significant step towards achieving the government's commitment to protecting its citizenry is unwavering," Dr. Bawumia added.





The newly-commissioned training school has modern training facilities and equipment, including two hydraulic platforms to reach the 16th floor, to fight fires and effect rescue for key institutions such as the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). This, Dr. Bawumia described as "a strategic move to ensure the safety of lives, businesses, livelihoods, and property."



The Vice President also highlighted the significant support the government has offered the Ghana National Fire Service, including the provision of modern equipment and expansion of the human resource capacity of the Service in the past 7 years to respond efficiently to emergencies.



Among the equipment are: command vehicles, modern fire engines, drones, rapid intervention vehicles, buses, appropriate personal protective equipment (APPEs), and rescue and firefighting equipment.



"This investment in modern equipment aligns with the government's vision to empower the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to deliver on its lawful mandate of saving lives and properties.



"These resources will not only enhance the Ghana National Fire Services capacity to handle diverse and complex firefighting scenarios but also contribute to the overall safety and security of our communities."



The support, Dr. Bawumia continued, has impacted positively on the operations of the Ghana Fire Service.



"The Service in 2022, recorded 6154 fires as against 5973 fires in 2023 which translates to a 2.94% rate of reduction. This feat is clearly a testament to the effectiveness of the government's initiatives, support, training, and the dedicated efforts of the firefighting force," the Vice President stated.



On the staff strength of the Service, Dr. Bawumia noted that the current government has almost doubled the personnel of the Fire Service from the number it met in 2017.





"It is unprecedented in the history of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) for a single government to recruit over 7000 personnel, increasing the workforce to over 15000 in just 7 years."



"This achievement, spearheaded by the NPP Government, led by His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, showcases the administration's commitment to enhancing the capabilities of our firefighting force to provide world class emergency firefighting and rescue services to the good people of this great country of ours."



Despite the huge contributions and successes chalked, Dr. Bawumia stressed that a lot more has to be done to protect lives and property, assuring that government is ever committed to support the Service realize its vision and mandate.



The Acting President of the Duayaw Nkwanta Traditional Council, Nana Boakye Bonsu, expressed gratitude to government, for the training school.



The Chief Fire Officer, on behalf of the Service, expresses gratitude to the Government for what he described as immense support, the Government has offered the Service, which he said, has significantly boosted their operations.



The 3rd Fire Service Academy and Training School built by the Akufo-Addo Government, is ready for commissioning in the Eastern Region.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Office of the Attorney General has withdrawn an application seeking to restrict Patience Botwe and Sarah Agyei, the two former housemaids of Cecilia Dapaah, former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources and five other persons from disposing of properties acquired with the cash stolen from the former minister.



The prosecution, according to the courts direction, was expected to present further details on the persons in possession of those properties so that the order could be directed at them.



But state prosecutors yesterday informed the court that they were withdrawing the application, and Justice Marie-Louise Simmons, the presiding judge struck it out as withdrawn.



Meanwhile, the parties in the trial have commenced case management which would continue on April 17, 2024 after which the trial will commence, with the prosecution calling its first witness.



The two housemaids of the former minister have been charged for conspiring and stealing a total of $410,000, 300,000 and GH350,000 from their former employers, leading to Madam Dapaah resigning from her position following public outcry.



Benjamin Sowah, Malik Dauda, Christiana Achab, Job Pomary and Yahaya Sumaila are facing charges of dishonestly receiving a total of GH4,010,000 and $14,000 from the housemaids.



Sarah Agyei is again accused of stealing assorted jewelries totaling $95,000 belonging to the former minister, bringing the total to $505,000 cash and property stolen from the former minister and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffuor.



The Office of the Attorney General had filed the application to ensure that the properties are not sold or transferred by the accused persons or their assigns until the final determination of the various charges against them although they have all pleaded not guilty.



On March 15, 2024, Christabel Anafuri, a State Attorney, moved the motion to restrict the accused from disposing of the properties, indicating that the reasonable belief is that if the properties are not restricted they would be transferred or disposed of by the accused persons, their agents, purported assigns, successors or employees.



But Justice Marie-Louise Simmons, the trial judge, indicated that an order cannot be given in vagueness without the application properly identifying the persons in charge of the properties who are to be restricted.



She said a proper investigation could determine this as the accused persons may not necessarily be in charge but third parties who the order could be directed at.



She added that whoever that would be affected by the order needs to be made known in case the court decides to grant the application.



Properties Identified



The properties identified by court documents which the prosecution is seeking to restrict the accused persons and their assigns from disposing of include an 11-unit chamber and hall self-contain house purchased at the cost of GH800,000 at Budumburam by Christiana Achab.



Christiana Achab, according to court documents, also purchased a three-bedroom house at Aplaku at the sum of GH300,000 for Patience Botwe.



She and her husband Job Pomary also purchased a four-bedroom apartment at Kokrobite at the cost of GH280,000 for herself, while she also invited another suspect, Yahaya Sumaila from Tamale in the Northern Region to Accra and purchased another three-bedroom apartment at Amrahia at the cost of GH850,000 in his name from an amount given to her by Patience Botwe.



Christiana Achab, according to prosecuting documents, also purchased two Honda Acura vehicles at the cost of GH300,000 each and registered them in the name of Franklin Sarakpo, her son who is on the run.



The price of a three-bedroom mansion built by Sarah Agyei, at Budumburam was not specified.



They also bought different vehicles costing a total of GH1.58 million, while two properties which were rented in Tamale cost a total of GH225,000.

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









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The Manklalo of the Mepe Traditional Area, Togbe Korsi Nego VI, has expressed gratitude to the new Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah for renewing efforts to resettle flood victims following the Volta dam spillage.



The Chiefs commendation came during a groundbreaking ceremony in Mepe on Monday, March 25, 2024, for the construction of housing units to accommodate the affected flood victims.



Your commitment since you became Minister for the housing sector and in making sure our people who are affected by the devastation have a decent place to live is something I must commend.



You could have sat in Accra and received briefs but you took time to come and see things for yourself and were grateful for that, he said.



The Mepe Chief highlighted the challenges faced by his community and expressed optimism that the government's commitment to resettlement would alleviate the suffering of those affected.



The Minister thanked the Mepe Traditional Council for the kind words and pledged to lead efforts towards the proper resettlement of the victims.



He said efforts to resettle the victims have been in motion but for the validation of a needs assessment to provide essential data to inform the resettlement process.



He assured the Traditional Council of governments commitment to addressing the plight of the displaced individuals calling for collaboration between the government and local communities to ensure the success of the resettlement efforts.



Togbe Korsi Nego VI urged the Minister to continue supporting the Mepe Traditional Area and reiterated the community's readiness to work hand in hand with the government to achieve lasting solutions for the displaced residents.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Keli Gadzekpo, the Board Chair of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), has tendered in his resignation.



The resignation is confirmed to have occurred in the evening of Tuesday, March 26 2024.



Keli Gadzekpo was appointed by the former Energy Minister and Presidential candidate on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party, Boakye Agyarko.



His appointment was meant to play a strategic role in addressing the issues confronting the energy sector.



The experienced entrepreneur brought his expertise onboard in the capacity of board chair, formulating some energy sector policies which provided a sustained energy supply for the last three years.



In his resignation letter, Keli expressed gratitude to the presidency for the opportunity to swerve but decided to tender his resignation on personal reasons.



The former board chair wished the ECG and the government well in their effort to provide stable electricity for the country.



The board chair's resignation comes at a time where the country is facing energy crisis with the electricity company at the receiving end of backlashes.



However, he remains confident that the ECG will find a level ground to restore comfort back to Ghanaians and all business owners.



With over two decades of experiences in investment banking, he currently serves as the Board Chairman for Enterprise Group.



Additionally, Gadzekpo chairs the Databank Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of the Databank Group.



Educated at Achimota School, Gadzekpo holds a BSc in Accounting from Brigham Young University and is a CPA from the USA.



He furthered his education as a Mason Fellow at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, earning a masters degree in Public Administration.

Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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The National Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah has implored striking teachers to reconsider their action and return to the classroom.



The ongoing Teacher Union strike is a disappointing situation that could have been avoided, he lamented.



He took a swipe at the National Labor Commission and Education Ministry for failing to avoid the strike.



The National Labor Commission was aware of the looming threat of a strike but failed to take necessary action to avert it. The Ministry of Education, which has been doing an incredible job under President Akufo-Addo, cannot be excused for dropping the ball on this matter, he said but urged the teachers not to bargain their students future.



He stressed; While we respect the Teacher Unions' right to strike, it is unfair to leverage their pupils' education to drive their bargain. This is excessive and unfair to the pupils.



He further pleaded with the teachers to focus on the governments good works for them and resume work.



The government has done a lot for teachers, including terminating the punitive 3-month policy inherited from the NDC and introducing the Professional Teacher Allowance of GHC 1,200 for professional and GHC 600 for non-professional teachers. This avoidable deadlock must not be allowed to taint the government's unprecedented investment, totaling GHC 114.5 billion, in the educational sector.



Three teacher unions have begun a nationwide strike on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, over what they describe as the governments disregard for their service conditions.



The three teacher unions are the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT).



The unions' decision is driven by several unresolved issues, including the persistent delay in salary payments, arbitrary alterations to academic timetables without proper consultation, and the protracted postponement of providing laptops to educators.



The national president of GNAT, Isaac Owusu, stated in a citinewsroom.com report that all teachers must heed the directive.



He also expressed significant concern over the distribution of laptops, the frequent changes to the school calendar without engaging teacher unions, and the obstruction of teachers' salaries by the Office of the Special Prosecutor, bypassing established procedures, as some of the reasons for their strike.



The distribution of laptops to all teachers is of concern. The rampant changes in the school calendar without recourse to negotiation with the teacher unions are affecting the smooth operation of the service. Also, the blockage of teacher salaries by the Office of the Special Prosecutor without recourse to the laid down procedures is a major worry.



In the light of the above circumstances and given the delays and unfulfilled promises on the part of the employer and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, and also threats from the rank and file of our members we, the pre-tertiary teacher unions, do stand with our members and hereby declare a nationwide industrial action effective today, Wednesday, March 20, 2024, to press home our demand, he stated.











Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wuntumi, has reassured his party faithful that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is poised to break the 8-year electoral cycle.



The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP affirmed that power will not transition to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and their flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama.



I can assure you that in 2024 we are breaking the 8, they delayed us in 2008 but they cant stop us, we are more united than before. They can't stop us; we are united and we are breaking the 8.



We are not going to give it to you. John Dramani Mahama you are not the option, we are not going to give it to you to spoil the good work that Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has done.



Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is going to succeed Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, he said during the inauguration of the Ashanti Region NPP campaign team over the weekend.



Joining the chorus of confidence, the Campaign Chairman of the NPP ahead of the 2024 general elections, Dan Kwaku Botwe, assured supporters that the party remains united and focused on victory.



Speaking at the event, he highlighted the successful internal elections at various levels of the party hierarchy, underscoring the unity within the NPP.



"We are not divided at all, we have had successful polling station elections, successful electoral elections, successful constituency elections, successful regional elections, successful national elections, and successful presidential elections. We are united, and we will do it at the right time, he said.











Source: ghanaweb.com









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The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed displeasure over what it describes as judicial bias in the scheduling of political cases by the Supreme Court.



The NDC asserted that, the Chief Justices decision to prioritise the hearing of a case filed by the MP for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, over an earlier case filed by Richard Dela Sky against the anti-gay bill, is troubling.



According to the NDC, the case filed by Richard Dela Sky challenging the constitutionality of the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2024, should have been heard first, as it was filed two weeks before Dafeamekpors case, which questions the constitutionality of recent ministerial nominations.



It is recalled that, a private legal practitioner and media personality, Richard Dela Sky filed his writ of summons in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2024, on March 5, 2024, whereas the South Dayi MP filed his writ of summons on March 18, 2024, challenging the constitutionality of the latest ministerial nominations by the president.



This, according to the NDC, is two weeks clear, yet, the court has scheduled to hear the latter first.



In a statement convened by the General Secretary of the party, Fifi Kwetey, the NDC argued that the scheduling order of the two cases undermines the principle of judicial independence and suggests a potential bias towards the government.



He said, Given the recent political deadlock that these two legal suits have created between the Executive arm and the Legislative arm of government, one would have expected that the date of filing of the cases would have informed the timing of their hearing by the apex Court.



Yet, for some strange reasons, the case of Hon. Rockson Dafeamekpor which was last in time to be filed, has been hurriedly listed for hearing, while that of Richard Dela Sky which predated the Dafeamekpor case by two weeks, has not been listed for hearing at all. This is in spite of the fact that no application for abridgement of time has been filed by any of the parties in the Dafeamekpor case, he stated.



Fifi Kwetey further alleged that the delay is a ploy by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, to keep the anti-gay bill on the shelves for as long as she wants.



Its quite apparent, that this is a ploy by the Chief Justice to fast-track the determination of the suit filed by Hon. Rockson Dafeamekpor, while the determination of the Richard Dela Sky suit is deliberately and unduly delayed, to enable the President to shelve the crucial Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill that has been passed by Parliament.



The arbitrary exercise of administrative discretion by the Chief Justice, particularly in the scheduling of cases in the Supreme Court, goes to fortify the high perception of bias on the part of the judiciary. Such judicial manipulations go to confirm the growing public perception that the current Chief Justice is a pliant accomplice and abettor of the misrule of the despotic Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government, Fifi Kwetey added.

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This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

General equilibrium economy-wide output losses, LGE, obtained from an empirically calibrated and 1,000 synthetic COVID-19 shocks propagating on the aggregated IPN (blue dashed line) and on the FPN (red line, histogram). Credit: PNAS Nexus (2024). DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae064

How would an armed conflict, an epidemic, or a flood affect the economy? "Being able to assessperhaps even predictthe economic impact of such crises is essential when it comes to mitigating and counteracting the damage," says Christian Diem from the Complexity Science Hub (CSH).

According to a recent study published in PNAS Nexus, countries seeking to prepare better for crises may benefit from a unique dataset of granular supply chain data. CSH researchers report, for the first time, that widely used sector-level economic data can underestimate the economic impact of crises by up to 37% compared with company-level highly detailed data.

VAT data

"We had access to a unique dataset of value-added tax (VAT) informationa general tax that, in principle, is applied to all goods and servicesfrom Hungary for this study. It contains 243,399 companies and allows the reconstruction of 1,104,141 supply relationships, virtually representing the entire national economy," explains Stefan Thurner from the CSH.

This allowed the researchers to systematically analyze and compare how the effects of crises are assessed differently when either only data on the 88 economic sectors defined by the European Union is available or when detailed supply chain data is available at the company level, which includes all companies and their customer-supplier relationships.

A total of 1,000 hypothetical crisis scenarios were simulated for this purpose. In order to ensure that the scenarios replicated real crises, the hypothetical crises were based on actual empirical data on the economic consequences of the COVID-19 crisis at the beginning of 2020.

"We were very surprised to find that the economic impact of each of the 1,000 simulated crises was systematically underestimatedby up to 37%if we only used the data for entire sectors, as has always been the case," explains Diem.

In addition, the results at the company level were much closer to those of the actual recession in the second quarter of 2020. In this way, a crisis' consequences are always estimated as smaller at the sectoral level than they actually are at the company level.

Atoms of the economy

"Up to now, the economy of a country has mainly been described at the level of entire economic sectors," explains Thurner. "In other words, we talk about how badly the entire automotive industry is affected by supply bottlenecks. The new data on the entire supply chain at the company level allows us to see the atoms of the economythe companiesand how they interact with each other. This is a new scientific territory, and it is extremely fascinating."

"Now we can calculate how individually affected companies within economic sectors are by a crisis rather than just describing the average for an entire sector."

"There is a great deal of difference between simply stating that an economic sector is going to suffer 20% losses, for example, and whether a simulation can reveal which companies are likely to be actually affected by the crisis and which are not. Perhaps even more important is to show how this spreads through the supply networkhow it affects their direct and indirect trading partners," adds Diem.

More than 160 countries have a VAT system and could, in principle, use it to reconstruct their supply networksone notable exception is the United States. As of now, only a dozen countries collect the data that can be used to reconstruct supply links. The list includes EU member states like Spain, Belgium, and Hungary, as well as countries like India, China, and some African and Latin American nations.

For countries that don't collect their VAT data in the right wayfor instance, Germany and Austriaa small tweak in the VAT reporting of firms would do the trick while creating minimal additional bureaucratic work for companies. "This could be automated through firm accounting software," explains Diem. It could also reduce forms of VAT fraud.

"With this study, we wanted to show how much estimates based on aggregated sector data can differ from estimates based on granular data and the actual economic impact and how important it is to collect detailed data at the company level," says Diem. No matter what the threat is, whether it is a flood disaster, CO 2 emissions, or the consequences of political interventions, an accurate assessment can help anticipate the consequences and, above all, react quickly and accurately.

More information: Christian Diem et al, Estimating the loss of economic predictability from aggregating firm-level production networks, PNAS Nexus (2024). DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae064 Journal information: PNAS Nexus

Provided by Complexity Science Hub
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References and notes: Naples: Carteni et al (2015), Prague: Cusack et al (2015), Los Angeles: Kam et al (2011a) & Kam et al (2011b); Boston, New York, Long Island, Philadelphia and Washington: David G. Luglio et al (2021); Taipei: Cheng & Yan (2011); Seoul: Park & Ha (2008); Beijing: Li et al (2007); Sydney: Mohsen et al (2018); Melbourne: Longbottom & Kinsella (2024) based on reported nearby measurements that occasionally exceeded 100 g/m. Credit: The Conversation/Swinburne University. Source: Swinburne University analysis of research data

Recent revelations about poor air quality at Melbourne's Southern Cross Station probably came as no surprise for passengers who have experienced such conditions.

Train platforms, bus terminal and nearby areas have recorded alarmingly poor air quality. In some parts of the station, nitrogen dioxide levels were more than 90 times the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended limit. At such levels, considered much higher than medically acceptable, human health is at risk.

Poor air quality in train stations is a concern in many major cities, including Sydney, New York and Boston in the US, and London and Edinburgh in the UK. In some Sydney stations and tunnels, air pollution was up to five times worse than the WHO's recommended limit.

Poor air quality is a result of fumes from diesel engines, restricted airflow, station design and the wear of train components. These emissions include tiny airborne particles. This fine particulate matter can cause illness and disease. Passengers, workers and nearby residents may all be affected.

Solutions already exist. Investing in technology, alternative fuels, electrification and better management of stations can improve air quality and reduce the health risks. As with COVID, people can also reduce their exposure by wearing suitable face masks, such as P2 and N95 masks.

It's a worldwide problem

International studies show poor air quality is common in enclosed train and bus stations. Data for most stations from many cities show levels of fine particulate matter exceeded WHO guidelines.

In Sao Paolo, Brazil, a study found "time spent inside a bus terminal can result in an intolerable health risk for commuters".

Credit: Swinburne University of Technology (2024), CC BY-SA

A Danish study identified much higherpollution levels of pollutants in and around diesel trains than for electric trains. Inside the diesel trains, levels of ultrafine particulate matter were 35 times higher, black carbon six times higher, nitrogen oxides (NO x ) eight times higher, PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, so they can enter the bloodstream) twice as high and benzo(a)pyrene six times higher.

But aren't trains a more sustainable form of transport?

In terms of sustainability and general urban air quality, trains help reduce emissions and air pollution when compared to cars and trucks in Australia. Trains transport people more efficiently, with a much smaller land, energy and emissions footprint.

The health impacts of air pollution are usually lower for train commuters than those who commute by car. However, the impacts on train commuters depend on location, the fuel used (diesel or electric) and the extent of their exposure to highly polluted air in enclosed and underground stations.

What can be done to improve air quality?

Rail operators can do many things to help passengers breath more easily. These involve both trains and station management.

Train-side interventions include the use of cleaner fuels, more efficient engines and filtering systems, and shifting from diesel to electric trains.

Station-side solutions include exhaust fans, station design and real-time monitoring of air quality. Optimizing schedules and operations can reduce train engine idling time. Loading and unloading facilities can be relocated away from congested areas.

Biodiesel in the Outback.

Alternative fuels

Train operators have trialed the use of biofuels, typically blended with mineral diesel. Biodiesel and renewable diesel are made from renewable resources and burn cleaner. Biofuels can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 86%.

Biodiesel costs nearly the same as mineral diesel, but renewable diesel costs more.

Technology fixes

Exhaust after-treatment systems on diesel engines are a low-cost option. Filters can capture most soot particles. Selective catalytic reduction technology uses a chemical reaction to reduce NO x emissions.

Improving ventilation and air flow within stations can also help limit pollution.

Another option is diesel-hybrid train fleet conversion. Electric traction modules and energy-storage systems recover energy when the train brakes and store it in a battery for later use.

These systems can operate the train when the diesel engines are shut down, for example during boarding. Energy savings can be up to 6,000kWh/day.

The South Australian government has retrofitted trains with these systems. They can cut fuel use by up to 20% and carbon dioxide emissions by 2,400 tons a year on the Adelaide Metro.

South Australia has retrofitted Adelaide trains with hybrid-diesel technology.

Electrification

Electric trains produce much less air pollutionaround 20-30% less greenhouse gas emissions per passenger kilometer.

Being lighter and more efficient, electric trains are also cheaper to make, maintain and run than diesel trains (with average savings of 20%, 33% and 45% respectively).

Cleaner air saves lives

Estimating health impacts in Australia is difficult due to limited data, but international evidence provides guidance.

Compared to travel on roads, commuters on trains and metros typically have less exposure to air pollution, except for black carbon. Long-term exposure to black carbon typically increases mortality rates even at low levels of ambient air pollution.

At exposure levels close to what is often found in cities, excess lifetime lung cancer mortality is 0.3 per 1,000. For train staff, Danish research estimates black-carbon exposure results in an extra 16 lung cancer deaths per 1,000 individuals over a lifetime (assuming an eight-hour working day). For working conditions over ten years, a six-fold increase in black carbon lifts this rate to 1.9 per 1,000. A ten-fold increase takes it to 3.2 extra deaths per 1,000.

Short-term exposure to high air pollution is also linked to deaths from kidney disease.

Researchers discuss the link between air pollution and lung cancer.

Leadership is needed to protect people and the planet

Some solutions are easy to apply immediately. Others require planning and foresight.

The impacts on rail costs and operations should be balanced against the importance of protecting the health of commuters and staff, as well as cutting emissions.

Active monitoring and transparent reporting of air quality promote public trust. They're also needed to assess the effectiveness of solutions.

Shifting towards a cleaner rail system is an opportunity for operators and regulators to show vision and leadership by supporting trains as one of the best alternatives to cars and trucks.

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:

Two spiral arms emerge from the gas-rich disk around SAO 206462, a young star in the constellation Lupus. This image, acquired by the Subaru Telescope and its HiCIAO instrument, is the first to show spiral arms in a circumstellar disk. The image traces the light emitted by the star and scattered on the disk surface. The disk itself is some 14 billion miles across, or about twice the size of Plutos orbit in our own solar system. Credit: NAOJ/Subaru

Planets form in disks of dust and gas called protoplanetary disks that whirl around a central protostar during its final assembly. Although several dozens of such disks have been imaged, just two planets have been caught in the act of forming so far. Now, astronomers are aiming the powerful instruments aboard the James Webb Space Telescope at protoplanetary disks to try to find early clues about the ways in which planets form, and how these planets influence their natal disk.

A trio of studies led by the University of Michigan, University of Arizona and University of Victoria combined JWST's images with prior observations made by the Hubble Space Telescope and the Atacama Large Millimeter Array, or ALMA, in Chile. Based on the ancillary observations, the team used JWST to observe protoplanetary disks HL Tau, SAO 206462 and MWC 758 in hopes of detecting any planets that might be forming.

In the papers, published in The Astronomical Journal, the researchers pieced together previously unseen interactions between the planet-forming disk and the envelope of gas and dust surrounding the young stars at the center of the protoplanetary disks.

To catch a planet

The U-M study, led by U-M astronomer Gabriele Cugno, aimed JWST at a disk surrounding a protostar called SAO 206462. There, the researchers potentially found a planet candidate in the act of forming in a protoplanetary disk, but it wasn't the planet they expected to find.

"Several simulations suggest that the planet should be within the disk, massive, large, hot, and bright. But we didn't find it. This means that either the planet is much colder than we think, or it may be obscured by some material that prevents us from seeing it," said Cugno, also a co-author on all three papers. "What we have found is a different planet candidate, but we cannot tell with 100% certainty whether it's a planet or a faint background star or galaxy contaminating our image. Future observations will help us understand exactly what we are looking at."

Astronomers have observed the disk in the past, notably with the Hubble Space Telescope, the Subaru Telescope, the Very Large Telescope and ALMA. These observations show a disk composed of two strong spirals, which are likely launched by a forming planet. The planet the U-M team expected to find is a type called a gas giant, planets composed mainly of hydrogen and helium, similar to Jupiter in our own solar system.

"The problem is, whatever we're trying to detect is hundreds of thousands, if not millions of times fainter than the star," Cugno said. "That's like trying to detect a little light bulb next to a lighthouse."

To peer more closely into the disk, the team used an instrument on JWST called NIRCam. NIRCam detects infrared light, and the astronomers used the instrument employing a technique called angular differential imaging. This technique can be used to detect both the thermal radiation of the planet, as the team has done to detect the planet candidate, and specific emission lines associated with material falling onto the planet and hitting its surface with high velocity.

"When material falls onto the planet, it shocks at the surface and gives off an emission line at specific wavelengths," Cugno said. "We use a set of narrow-band filters to try to detect this accretion. This has been done before from the ground at optical wavelengths, but this is the first time it's been done in the infrared with JWST."

This artists impression shows the formation of a gas giant planet embedded in the disk of dust and gas in the ring of dust around a young star. A University of Michigan study, led by U-M astronomer Gabriele Cugno, aimed the James Webb Space Telescope at a protoplanetary disk surrounding a protostar called SAO 206462, hoping to find a gas giant planet in the act of forming. Credit: ESO/L. Calcada

Imaging the 'raw material' of planets

The University of Victoria paper, led by astronomy student Camryn Mullin, describes images of the disk surrounding the young star HL Tau.

"HL Tau is the youngest system in our survey, and still surrounded by a dense inflow of dust and gas falling onto the disk," said Mullin, a co-author of all three studies. "We were amazed by the level of detail with which we could see this surrounding material with JWST, but unfortunately, it obscures any signals from potential planets. "

HL Tau's disk is known for having several solar-system scale rings and gaps that could harbor planets.

"While there is a ton of evidence for ongoing planet formation, HL Tau is too young with too much intervening dust to see the planets directly," said Jarron Leisenring, the principal investigator of the observing campaign searching for forming planets and astronomer at the University of Arizona Steward Observatory. "We have already begun looking at other young systems with known planets to help form a more complete picture."

However, to the team's surprise, JWST revealed unexpected details of a different feature: the proto-stellar envelope, which is essentially a dense inflow of dust and gas surrounding the young star that is just beginning to coalesce, according to Leisenring. Under the influence of gravity, material from the interstellar medium falls inward onto the star and the disk, where it serves as the raw material for planets and their precursors.

The UArizona study, led by Kevin Wagner, a NASA Hubble/Sagan Fellow at UArizona Steward Observatory, examined the protoplanetary disk of MWC 758. Similar to SAO 206462, previous observations by the UArizona-led team revealed spiral arms forming in the disk, hinting at a massive planet orbiting its host star.

While no new planets were detected in the disk during the most recent observations, the sensitivity is groundbreaking, the researchers say, as it allows them to place the most stringent constraints yet on the suspected planets. For one, the results rule out the existence of additional planets in the outer regions of the MWC 758, consistent with a single giant planet driving the spiral arms.

"The lack of planets detected in all three systems tells us that the planets causing the gaps and spiral arms either are too close to their host stars or too faint to be seen with JWST," said Wagner, a co-author of all three studies. "If the latter is true, it tells us that they're of relatively low mass, low temperature, enshrouded in dust, or some combination of the threeas is likely the case in MWC 758."

The search for forming planets continues

Catching planets in the act of forming is important because astronomers can glean information not only about the formation process, but how chemical elements get distributed throughout a planetary system.

"Only about 15 percent of stars like the sun have planets like Jupiter. It's really important to understand how they form and evolve, and to refine our theories," said U-M Michael Meyer, U-M astronomer and co-author of all three studies. "Some astronomers think that these gas giant planets regulate the delivery of water to rocky planets forming in the inner parts of the disks."

Knowing how these disks are shaped by gas giants will help astronomers ultimately understand the properties and evolution of protoplanetary disks that later give rise to rocky, Earth-like planets, said Meyer.

"Basically in every disk we have observed with high enough resolution and sensitivity, we have seen large structures like gaps, rings and, in the case of SAO 206462, spirals," Cugno said. "Most if not all of these structures can be explained by forming planets interacting with the disk material, but other explanations that do not involve the presence of giant planets exist.

"If we manage to finally see these planets, we can connect some of the structures with forming companions and relate formation processes to the properties of other systems at much later stages. We can finally connect the dots and understand how planets and planetary systems evolve as a whole."

More information: Kevin Wagner et al, JWST/NIRCam Imaging of Young Stellar Objects. I. Constraints on Planets Exterior to the Spiral Disk Around MWC 758, The Astronomical Journal (2024). DOI: 10.3847/1538-3881/ad11d5 Gabriele Cugno et al, JWST/NIRCam Imaging of Young Stellar Objects. II. Deep Constraints on Giant Planets and a Planet Candidate Outside of the Spiral Disk Around SAO 206462, The Astronomical Journal (2024). DOI: 10.3847/1538-3881/ad1ffc Camryn Mullin et al, JWST/NIRCam Imaging of Young Stellar Objects. III. Detailed Imaging of the Nebular Environment around the HL Tau Disk, The Astronomical Journal (2024). DOI: 10.3847/1538-3881/ad2de9 Journal information: Astronomical Journal
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Eunota houstoniana. Credit: Rice University

Rice University evolutionary biologist Scott Egan and his research team have unearthed a new species of tiger beetle, deemed Eunota houstoniana, honoring the region of Houston, where it predominantly resides.

The team employed cutting-edge genetic sequencing technology alongside traditional measurements of their physical appearance and geographic range data to redefine species boundaries within the Eunota circumpicta species complex. This approach, known as integrative taxonomy, allowed them to identify distinct biological entities previously overlooked.

The study is published online in Scientific Reports.

"It is amazing that within the city limits of Houston, we still don't know all the species of insects or plants we share our region with," Egan said. "I'm always interested in learning more about the biodiversity of the Gulf Coast."

The Eunota houstoniana was once considered synonymous with the more common Eunota circumpicta, but the team's research revealed significant differences, emphasizing the need for a refined process of species delineation.

Eunota houstoniana exhibits distinct genetic and physical characteristics. It is slightly smaller in size, its metallic coloring is more subdued, and it has unique behavior and habitat preferences.

The new species gravitates towards saline soils often found near salt domes and oil extraction sites along the Gulf Coast. Its habitat ranges from coastal regions to inland areas, showcasing its adaptability and ecological significance.

"Hopefully, our integrative approach to species delimitation becomes the standard for the field of biology, where, unfortunately, many organisms have not had the same level of attention that the charismatic tiger beetles have had," said Robert Laroche, ecology and evolutionary biology Ph.D. student at Rice and a member of Egan's research team.

The discovery of Eunota houstoniana underscores the urgency of biodiversity conservation. Its habitats are increasingly jeopardized by urbanization and agricultural or industrial activities, and although newly discovered, Eunota houstoniana is likely a threatened species, according to Egan.

"Because of all the growth around Houston, some of these populations have likely gone extinct, while others have been hiding right out our back door," Egan said.

Egan's research team for Eunota houstoniana includes Laroche, along with lead author Dan Duran, department of environmental science at Rowan University; Ethan Bull, undergraduate student at Rice; David Herrmann from Dallas; Will Godwin from Sam Houston State University; and Steve Roman, collection of arthropods at Florida State University.

"It is the nature of our collaboration in this project," Egan said. "It would not have been possible without the efforts of everyone at Rice, Sam Houston State, Rowan University, and our citizen scientists."

In a related project, Egan and Laroche recently described another new species from the same genus, the Eunota luecophasma, or the white ghost tiger beetle from West Texas, further highlighting the diversity and importance of these creatures in our region.

By identifying and documenting such species, researchers like those in Egan's laboratory provide the essential groundwork for conservation efforts.

In Texas, there are around 62 known species of tiger beetles, but that is likely an underestimate of the diversity that exists, according to Egan. His work at Rice since 2013 has been instrumental in uncovering and describing previously unknown insect species in the state.

Eunota houstoniana marks the 17th new species described by Egan and his collaborators during his 11 years at Rice.

More information: Daniel P. Duran et al, Species delimitation, discovery and conservation in a tiger beetle species complex despite discordant genetic data, Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56875-9 Journal information: Scientific Reports
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Warren County has warned residents to prepare for heavy traffic, possible cell phone service disruptions and other potential impacts as large crowds descend on the region for the April 8 solar eclipse.

New York State officials forecasted possible gridlock on major roadways, plus local roads such as Interstate-87 the Adirondack Northway, U.S. Route 9, Route 28, Route 149, and Route 8.

One of the concerns about eclipse-related traffic for us is Warren Countys geography  we sit at a crossroads for traffic to and from much of the Adirondacks as well as Vermont and New Hampshire, the latter states via Route 149 and Route 4, Don Lehman told The Post-Star. Lehman is Warren Countys Director of Public Affairs.

These roads lead to the wide swath of the Adirondack Park that will experience a total eclipse, areas where some communities will be hosting viewing events, Lehman said.

Northwestern Warren County is among the areas of upstate New York that will experience a total solar eclipse the afternoon of Monday, April 8. The hamlet of North River and adjacent areas, as well as Northern Adirondacks, are expected to see a total blackout for over one minute around 3:25 p.m. The remainder of Warren County will see a partial eclipse.

We anticipate large crowds coming to and passing through Warren County from other areas to view this eclipse, so we ask that residents and visitors prepare for heavy traffic and possible service disruptions, Warren County Administrator John Taflan said in a statement. We are excited to welcome visitors to Warren County and the Adirondacks for this once-in-a-generation event.

In recent weeks, Warren County officials have held meetings to formulate emergency response plans if needed. Warren County Office of Emergency Services has also worked with New York State to arrange for staging of state emergency response resources at Warren County Municipal Center before the eclipse for response during and after if needed, according to Lehman.

For local residents, try to avoid traveling in the hours immediately before and after the eclipse, as heavy traffic is expected when people from outside of the region return home, the Warren County Office of Emergency Services stated in a press release.

What type of impact we see will probably come down to the weather. If the weather is good, we will probably see a lot of day trippers coming up from the Capital Region, in addition to those from further away who are coming up for the weekend, Lehman told The Post-Star.
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A Rio Grande man who allegedly exchanged explicit photos and videos with an out-of-state juvenile was ordered released from the Cape May County jail Wednesday pending trial.

Javish Roman, 21, is charged with possession and distribution of child pornography, manufacturing of child pornography and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

Cape May County Superior Court Judge Jeffrey R. Wilson granted Roman's release with conditions that he can't access the internet, can't travel outside the state, must have no contact with the victim or anyone under 18 and must check in with court officials once a week.

"I know you are very young, but you're facing some very serious consequences here" Wilson told Roman during his ruling. "Comply with every one of these conditions of your release. I can pretty much guarantee that if you don't, you'll be back in that orange outfit sitting where you sitting."

Authorities started investigating Roman based on a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that revealed he allegedly distributed child sexual abuse material through social media, the Cape May County Prosecutor's Office said.

Investigators found more than 1,000 items of child pornography in a folder on his cellphone following a March 14 search. While being questioned, Roman said he used WhatsApp to send the material, according to Assistant Prosecutor Dara Paley.

Paley said the WhatsApp messages showed that a conversation from January between Roman and the victim, later identified as a 17-year-old from Texas, led to Roman requesting explicit photos of the teen for over two months.

Rio Grande man faces additional child pornography charges A Rio Grande man faces additional child pornography charges after authorities analyzed more than 1,000 items seized from him, the Cape May County Prosecutor's Office said Friday.

"The content of the conversation was relatively appropriate until the defendant sent an unsolicited photograph and video of himself," Paley said. "Over time, the defendant convinced the victim to send him pictures and videos of herself and gave her the impression that he could protect her from them getting leaked."

Roman had no prior criminal record, and his public safety assessment recommended release.

However, due to a variety of factors, including the nature of the charges and his connections to Puerto Rico and Florida, the state pushed for him to be held.

"This is a case that is not limited to just possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material," Paley said, "but the manipulation of a child into creating those images over the span of months. This defendant is a danger to not only any local child but the community at large. He had the items hidden in a secret location and deleted the text messages between himself and the victim. His criminal behavior is not limited to just New Jersey; he reached out to a child in another state. There are no conditions that can be enforced to ensure he can't access the internet, and its impossible for pretrial services to monitor his internet use or go into his home to check on electronic devices."

John Tumelty, Roman's attorney, argued his client, who worked at Lowe's prior to his arrest, wouldn't be a flight risk or a danger to children because he lives with his mother and sister and plans are already in place for his sister's 2-year-old son to live elsewhere while Roman is out of jail.

"It's a fair argument that he's a risk to the community; that is always there whenever you're dealing with internet crimes," Tumelty said. "If he gets released, he will live at the Rio Grande address. His mother and aunt have made arrangements for his sister to be out of the house with her son, so there would be no child in the residence. The only computer in his house is his mom's cellphone, so I think that could give the court some comfort that he has no access to the internet."

Roman is due back in court April 10 for a pretrial conference.
Arrowhead Youth and Family Services announced it is closing the residential programming, effective April 23.

The closure is due to "insurmountable financial challenges", Chief Executive Officer Dr. Luis Moreno said in the announcement.

Arrowhead plans to continue providing its Day Reporting Center program, which serves as a resource center and reentry hub for youth.

"Despite tireless efforts to sustain our mission of guiding youth towards becoming productive and responsible individuals through quality counseling, education, and social services, the organization is compelled to cease the operation of its residential programming due to insurmountable financial challenges," Moreno said in the announcement.

Located in rural Coal Valley, Arrowhead Youth and Family Services is a private, nonprofit treatment facility for at-risk boys between the ages of 12-21. The facility's mission is to motivate the boys to become productive and responsible members of society.

Moreno said the decision to close the residential programming comes from several reasons, primarily stemming from the State of Illinois' implementation of the Family First Prevention Services Act and that funding provided by the state is not sufficient to cover the costs associated with delivering services and programs. The Family First Prevention Services Act was signed into law in February 2018 and reformed the federal child welfare financing streams, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services website states.

The demographics of providing services to at-risk youth also has changed, Moreno said.

"Originally designed to work with low to moderate-risk youth, the increasing severity of the youth placed Arrowhead as a result of restrictions...has stretched our resources beyond capacity," Moreno's announcement said.

Delays and inconsistencies in payment from state agencies for services rendered by Arrowhead also created "significant cash flow challenges", Moreno said, hindering Arrowhead's ability to operate effectively and sustainability.

Founded in 1945, Arrowhead has been operating for nearly 80 years.

Over the coming weeks, Moreno said the facility will work closely with stakeholders to restructure operations and remain committed to fulfilling all outstanding obligations to staff, partners and vendors to the best of their ability.

"Our dedicated staff members have worked tirelessly to empower young people and equip them with the skills and resources necessary to overcome obstacles and thrive," Moreno said. "We know the services we have provided have made a lifelong impact on our residents and the communities where they now reside."

Services will continue during the transition to support the youth and families who have been a part of Arrowhead's programs.

This story may be updated.

Arrowhead Youth and Family Services Tour
Downtown Rock Island is about to undergo a multi-million dollar change.

Downtown is set to receive $8.7 million in upgrades and improvements, which includes changes to Arts Alley; reconstruction of downtown streets; installation of a roundabout; and adding outdoor seating and signage. Valley Construction of Rock Island was awarded the bid.

The bid came in $1.7 million higher than the proposed scope from summer 2023, which estimated it around $7 million, according to previous reporting. Originally, about $2.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds were planned for rebuild downtown, but it increased to $3.9 million to help fund water, sewer and other ARPA qualifying items.

Construction is set to begin next month.

The project area is Arts Alley; 18th Street from 1st and 3rd avenues; and 2nd and 3rd avenues between 18th and 19th streets.

Arts Alley

One of the major components of the Rebuild Downtown Rock Island project is renovating Arts Alley located at 1719 2nd Avenue.

Jack Cullen, Rock Island Downtown Alliance executive director, said Arts Alley would be renovated and would feature two large-scale murals. Combined, there is over 4,000 square feet on the walls surrounding Arts Alley, Cullen said.

"One of the goals specifically is to come up with something stylistically that doesn't exist anywhere else in the Quad-Cities," Cullen said.

In January, the downtown alliance put out the call for artists to help with the murals in Arts Alley. The murals will be created on separate walls facing each other. The downtown alliance is working with Quad-City Arts and had over 400 submissions from artists around the world, Cullen said, and the list has been narrowed down to a little more than 130 artists.

Decorative string lighting, new signage and other opportunity for smaller pieces of art also will be featured in the renovation.

Arts Alley has a budget of about $534,000, with half of the costs funded by an Illinois Tourism Attractions grant. The city will fund the remaining costs with a combination of downtown tax increment financing funds and American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Streetscapes and greenspace

The parking lot at 18th Street and 2nd Avenue will be removed and replaced with greenspace. It will have new lighting in the space and "ROCK ISLAND" signage. The space also can be used for yard games and special events.

Space for outdoor dining also will be added at: 17th Street near where Theo's Java Cafe and Steve's Old Time Tap are located; 3rd Avenue and 18th Street near QC Coffee and Pancake House; 2nd Avenue near the former Rock Island Brewing Company, Soi 2 Thai Street Food and El Patron Mexican; 18th Street near Huckleberry's Great Pizza & Calzones and Nest Cafe; and 17th Street and 2nd Avenue near Rock Island Ale House and Healthy Harvest Urban Farms.

The sidewalks in front of the businesses will have the patio space, and fencing would be installed that could be removed during the winter months, Cullen said.

Other upgrades and improvements to downtown include a mini roundabout; 'Welcome to Downtown Rock Island' gateway at 1st Avenue and 18th Street; street, sidewalk and utility construction; electrical, landscaping and furnishing construction.

Funding sources include $1.5 million from downtown tax increment financing funds; the $3.9 million from ARPA; and a $3 million State of Illinois Rebuild Downtown Grant. There also is a contingency of 5% or $467,000.

A full cost breakdown can be found Monday's council study session presentation and council agenda.

Other million dollar approval

The council also approved a $1.6 million bid for City Hall renovations, also from Valley Construction. The bid covers construction costs, with the total project expected to cost around $2.25 million. Of that, $2 million would come from ARPA funds and $250,000 would come from general fund surplus.

The council also approved $47,000 for asbestos abatement for the renovations. Other project costs include:

Design: $67,880.

Construction: $1.6 million.

Audio-visual: $250,000.

Furniture and Fixtures: $200,000.

Updates will be made to all three floors, with a complete overhaul of the third floor. Renovations for council chambers include a conference room; storage room; new permanent staff seating and flexible public furniture; elevated council seating; restroom upgrades; and upgraded technology.

The first floor will have a new reception desk that will replace the display case; new flooring and furniture; an additional office; updated technology, lighting and ceilings; improved security; door removals and addition; and paint and wood refinishing. It also will have a secure entrance to city offices on the first floor.

Renovations on the second floor include replacing the ceiling, lighting and furniture; repainting walls; creating a larger waiting area; and improving security and access.

Paid for with ARPA funds, a five-year $1.7 million contract with Tyler Technologies also was approved. The contract is for enterprise resource planning.

Photos: Flower and Garden Show at QCCA Expo Center
The newest restaurant in downtown Davenport is serving up exactly what its name says.

Michal Lai, owner of SUSHI, etc. by m.j's, opened the doors to his new venture Tuesday morning at 124 W. 2nd St. The restaurant neighbors City Loafers and is open for dine-in or carry-out Monday-Saturday.

The MJ name might be familiar to those in Davenport, with Mj Chinese, Vietnamese, & Sushi being a Locust Street staple. Lai's parents own that restaurant, and after working there for years, he decided to take the leap and branch out on his own.

"I went to St. Ambrose, so after school I would help out at the family restaurant," he said. "I fell in love with making sushi and I wanted to bring a little modern twist with it, and then I wanted to open it down here for the young community."

Lai's food includes homemade sauces and fresh ingredients. His extensive menu has 27 classic rolls, like the Philadelphia roll of salmon and cream cheese, and a menu of 22 specialty rolls with options like the Snow White  a roll with avocado, crab mix, shrimp, cucumber and seared white tuna on top.

For those who need a little more heartiness with their meal, four options for sushi burritos are also on the menu. For those who need something lighter, poke bows are offered as well.

Diners can choose a bed of leafy greens or white rice as the starting point and the various toppings are piled on. Combination platters and appetizers round out the menu, with ample seating inside the restaurant for those who choose to stay.

For those in a rush, Lai has a plan for them, too. Everyday he will make fresh sushi rolls to stock in a grab-and-go refrigerator for those who need their lunch on the go.

"My goal is to show the customer the fresh quality so they can see what I bring (to the table) and they can see me make it for them," he said.

All ingredients are on display at the counter where Lai makes it all, made to order. This is the first entrepreneurial endeavor for the 24-year-old and comes with some stress. But, with his mom helping in the kitchen and years of knowledge and experience in the industry already, Lai is ready to bring his passion to downtown.

"I think my many years working at my family restaurant and all they taught me about quality and careful hands; how to prepare and always serve the customer what I would serve to my family," he said.

SUSHI, etc. by m.j's is open from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. A complete menu can be found on the restaurant's Facebook and Instagram pages.
A tow-truck driver allegedly was texting and driving recklessly when he struck and seriously injured a Davenport woman at the intersection of Rockingham Road and South Concord Street earlier this month, Davenport Police said Tuesday.

Granvell Kelly Ramey, 52, was arrested Tuesday and booked into the Scott County Jail at 11:23 a.m.

Ramey is charged in Scott County District Court with one count each of serious injury by vehicle and leaving the scene of an injury accident. Each charge is a Class D felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of five years.

He also is charged with one count of preventing apprehension-obstruction of justice, an aggravated misdemeanor that carries a prison sentence of two years.

Ramey also was issued 10 citations for numerous traffic offenses including running stop signs, driving with no hands while using an electronic device and not wearing a seatbelt, among other offenses.

According to the arrest affidavit filed by Davenport Police Officer Robert Cormier, officers responded to a hit-and-run crash at Rockingham Road and South Concord Street at 7:34 a.m. on March 13.

Officers located a victim, identified as Dana Oswalt Evans, 43. According to the affidavit, Evans suffered a fracture to her right femur, a pelvic fracture, a left pneumothorax, or collapsed lung, and several rib fractures.

Using surveillance video from nearby businesses, officers were able to identify the vehicle, a 2016 Freightliner tow truck. Officers located the tow truck in a nearby tow yard.

The tow truck was equipped with two cameras, one that faced out of the front windshield onto the roadway and one that faced the driver in the cab.

Ramey was identified as the driver of the tow truck by the video from the cab and by co-workers, according to the affidavit. He also admitted to driving the truck.

From the cab video, officers saw Ramey using and texting on his cell phone while operating the tow truck before striking Evans.

According to the affidavit, Ramey knew he had struck Evans and fled the scene of the crash.

From the video, officers could see that Ramey was not wearing a seat belt for the entire drive, more than 3 miles, from 1300 Emerald Drive to the tow yard at 941 S. Rolff St, the location of Action Towing and Auto Repair.

The videos showed Ramey running stop signs at five intersections: West 13th Street at Calvin Street, Telegraph Road and Waverly Road, Clark Avenue and Indian Road, Indian Road at Concord Street and Concord Street at McKinley Avenue.

Video from the tow truck showed Ramey making an improper turn at Rockingham Road and South Concord Street where he failed to yield to Evans, who was walking in the crosswalk and had the right of way. The tow truck also was not completely to the right of the center line while turning.

Ramey gave consent for police to search his cell phone. That is when officers discovered that Ramey had destroyed text messages and phone call records after the crash to allegedly hide the fact that he was using his phone while driving.

During a first appearance on the charges Wednesday in Scott County District Court, Magistrate Stephen Wing scheduled a preliminary hearing in the case for April 5 and set Ramey's bond at $5,000, cash or surety.

Ramey was released from the Scott County Jail after posting 10% of the $5,000 bond through a bonding company.
The city of Davenport vacated an apartment building on West 4th Street on Tuesday on advice of Shive-Hattery structural engineers.

The city is notifying tenants of the building at 401 W. 4th St. and "has secured available resources to assist in displacement," according to a news release from the city's Development and Neighborhood Services Department Tuesday afternoon.

Per the building owner, the current expected number of units that will be vacated is about 18, which the city, in its news release, said is a number it is verifying itself.

On Tuesday evening, a few residents could be seen entering and exiting the building with belongings in bags and boxes. Two confirmed to a Quad-City Times reporter that they were residents but declined to talk further while they retrieved their belongings.

A Davenport police officer was there, too.

Notices taped to the building's doors told residents the building was being evacuated immediately and that with proof of residency, rooms would be provided at the Relax Inn on Brady Street from March 26 to March 31 at no cost. Pets would be allowed.

The notice advised residents to collect medications, pets and essential personal belongings. It also advised tenants to contact the Neighborhood Services Department at 563-326-6198 to provide contact information and receive updates and resource assistance.

Thomas Owens said he was hired in January to help work on the building, though he has since stopped that work and has been living there. The building is being closed because engineering work that needs to be done on the building has not been done, Owens said.

Now, a lot of these people have nowhere to go, Owens said. A lot of these people cant go anywhere because of certain circumstances they have.

It shouldnt have been like this, he continued. They could have given them a couple of days."

Schricker BHNVa By SJ LLC purchased the property in November of 2022 for $2.125 million, according to online property records. The notices list a New Jersey address for the owners.

It was not immediately clear what was wrong with the building to cause an immediate evacuation order by the city. The Quad-City Times has requested the findings of the Shive-Hattery engineers.

"As more information becomes available, this will be shared with the public," the city's news release stated.

The Schricker Apartment building was built in 1906 and has 48 units, according to the Scott County Assessor's website.

On May 28 of last year, a six-story apartment building partially collapsed in Davenport and killed three men, caused a woman to lose her leg and led to dozens of tenants losing their homes and belongings. Since then, the city has faced sharp questions from the public about why the building was not vacated when city inspectors, MidAmerican workers and a few residents were concerned about the structural integrity of the building.

In its wake, city officials said they were relying on a structural engineering report from a firm hired by the building's owner that the building did not need an emergency evacuation order.

Rental/utility assistance resources Salvation Army Family Center: 563-324-4808 Scott County Community Services: 563-326-8723 Community Action of Eastern Iowa: 563-324-3236 HELP Legal Aid: 563-322-6216 Iowa Housing Recovery Help Line: 855-300-5885 Affordable Rentals in Iowa: iowahousingsearch.org
SPRINGFIELD  The longtime chair and a relatively new member of the Illinois Prisoner Review Board have resigned, Gov. J.B. Pritzkers office announced Monday.

The governors office announced the pairs resignations within hours of each other nearly two weeks after Crosetti Brand was released from Stateville Correctional Center. Brand is now charged with stabbing his pregnant ex-girlfriend and killing her 11-year-old son the day after his release.

Pritzkers office said LeAnn Miller conducted the recent Crosetti Brand hearing, referring to a February hearing in front of the PRB in which the board voted to release Brand from custody after hed allegedly threatened his ex-girlfriend, Laterria Smith, in January.

Prior to the incident, Brand was on electronic monitoring after serving prison time for separate domestic violence charges, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. He was sent back to Stateville while the allegations were investigated.

But, according to the Sun-Times, in a hearing late last month, the PRB voted to release him because there wasnt enough evidence to corroborate Smiths allegations that Brand had contacted her. Such contact would mean Brand violated his parole, as prosecutors allege Smith had an active order of protection against him.

Brand was released March 12, a few weeks after the PRBs vote. The next morning, Brand forced his way into Smiths apartment as she was leaving to drop her two sons off at school, according to reporting from the Chicago Tribune.

Prosecutors allege Brand stabbed 11-year-old Jayden Perkins to death as he was trying to defend his mother, who was also brutally stabbed. According to an obituary from Block Club Chicago, Perkins was an accomplished dancer who was on a full scholarship to a dance school in Chicago.

In a statement, Pritzker said that while the PRB must be able to operate independently as they review enormously difficult cases, he believed "LeAnn Miller has made the correct decision in stepping down from her role. Pritzker said in his Monday morning statement. It is clear that evidence in this case was not given the careful consideration that victims of domestic violence deserve and I am committed to ensuring additional safeguards and training are in place to prevent tragedies like this from happening again.

The governor also wished Smith well in her recovery and said he mourned Perkins with his family.

Pritzkers statement said hed asked the PRB to engage experts and advocates to design and implement expanded training for board members charged with handling cases involving domestic violence.

The governors office said it also directed the PRB and Illinois Department of Corrections to review the current rules and procedures for receiving information related to cases involving domestic violence.

Miller was appointed to the Prisoner Review Board in September 2021 and her term wasnt due to expire until January 2027. Her appointment came in the midst of increased scrutiny of Pritzkers PRB appointees in 2021 and 2022. Republicans in the Illinois Senate, which votes to confirm the governors hundreds of appointments to state agencies, boards and commissions, took issue with Pritzkers withdrawal of appointments before a key deadline, resetting the clock for the Senate to confirm.

The GOP members argued the PRB in particular was charged with making decisions too important for members to continue serving while unconfirmed. Republicans put a microscope to the members decisions, and the Pritzker administration ended up withdrawing names from appointment in the face of the pressure.

While Miller wasnt among the names the Republicans initially took issue with for serving too long while unconfirmed, the GOP's scrutiny eventually included Miller for her role in releasing a prisoner who killed her two infant daughters in the 1980s. That decision involved a review of the inmates later diagnosis of postpartum psychosis, which has come to be far better understood in the three decades since.

Miller was confirmed to the board in March of last year on a 33-22 vote with a bipartisan mix of both support and opposition.

Late Monday afternoon, the governors office also announced the resignation of PRB chair Donald Shelton, whod been on the board since 2012. In his statement about Shelton, Pritzker praised him for providing a model of dedication to public service.

During his time with the Champaign Police Department and with the PRB he worked diligently to keep Illinoisans safe and uphold our justice system, and I thank him for his service, the governor said.
The University of Iowa College of Dentistry in Iowa City. (Photo courtesy the State of Iowa)

An assistant professor at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry is facing sanctions for multiple alleged regulatory violations including dishonest, abusive or threatening behavior.

The Iowa Dental Board has charged Dr. Thiago Soares Porto with practicing dentistry in a manner harmful or detrimental to the public; unethical conduct related to actions deemed to be abusive, coercive, intimidating, harassing, untruthful, or threatening; unethical conduct for actions that interfered with a patient filing a complaint with the board; failing to comply with the standard precautions for preventing and controlling infectious diseases; and engaging in the practice of dentistry outside of the College of Dentistry without the appropriate license.

The publicly available records from the Iowa Dental Board give no indication when the alleged violations took place.

Aside from an allegation that Porto had entered into an agreement with a patient to prevent that individual from filing a complaint with the board, the specific actions that gave rise to the charges have not been publicly disclosed.

A board hearing on the charges is scheduled for June 14.

In a written statement, Portos attorney, Todd M. Lantz, said, Dr. Porto has a spotless record and adamantly denies that he has done anything unethical or that would subject him to professional discipline. He has fully cooperated with the Dental Board and looks forward to defending himself in a formal hearing.

Porto is a state-licensed dentist who also holds a faculty permit and practices dentistry as a member of the College of Dentistrys faculty. According to the college, Porto is an assistant professor of operative dentistry. On the schools website, Porto writes that he is working to shape the future of dentistry by directing courses for second-year students.
The Iowa Senate passed a bill Tuesday to allow younger teens to drive themselves to work without an adult riding along.

Iowa law currently allows teens as young as 14-and-a-half years old  six months after earning their instruction permit that allows them to drive with adult supervision  to drive without an adult for farm work, and to travel to and from school.

Senate File 2109 would allow 14- and 15-year-olds to drive to any kind of job, not just farming, following a law passed last year that allows younger teens to work longer hours and later in the day.

The bill reduces the distance a teen can drive under the special minors restricted license from 50 to 25 miles to school or a job. Driving cannot be part of the work.

You can drive to the pizza place to make the pizza; however, you cannot drive the pizza delivery truck to deliver the pizza, said Sen. Adrian Dickey, the bills floor manager and a Republican from Packwood.

Senate Democrats voted against the bill, citing concerns about recent changes to child labor laws and the decision-making abilities of 14-year-olds, and the potential impact of the bill on car insurance rates. The crash fatality rate for teens in the United States is almost three times the rate for people in their twenties.

This is too far too fast, said Sen. Todd Taylor, a Democrat from Cedar Rapids. Some (14-year-olds) are ready (to drive by themselves), sure. Some are not ready. And my money is no, lets be safe for those 14-and-a-half year olds for driving.

Dickey said the bill implements the unanimous recommendations made by an interim study committee created under last years youth employment law. The committee was made up of Republicans and Democrats and representatives from various state departments and the insurance industry.

Dickey said the bill provides uniformity between a variety of youth driving permits currently allowed, so the law enforcement can enforce them more effectively.

The bill also changes the hours when teens with the license are allowed to drive. Instead of allowing them to drive from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., they would be limited to driving up to one hour before and after their shift or when school activities begin and end.

Dickey said the bill also establishes stronger penalties than in current law for violating the restrictions of the permit, causing a crash or breaking the rules of the road.

The bill passed 33-15 and now heads to the Iowa House for consideration.

Iowa lawmakers advance vape registry bill

House lawmakers advanced a proposal Tuesday backed by tobacco companies that would restrict vape sales in Iowa.

The House Ways and Means Committee unanimously recommended passage of House Study Bill 682. The bill, which now is eligible for consideration by the full House, would create a registry of approved vaping products that have been vetted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ensure vape shops are selling only approved products.

Retailers could sell only products listed on the state-approved registry  which would be limited to those the FDA has approved for sale, or those whose application is pending review by the FDA or whose denial is being appealed.

To register with the state, a manufacturer would have to provide proof of marketing authorization or a similar order from the FDA, a pending application that remains under FDA review or a court order that shows a final authorization has not yet taken effect.

To date, the FDA has authorized just 23 e-cigarette products and related devices, all of them tobacco-flavored, while rejecting more than a million applications.

Although there are thousands of other products that are in the pipeline for approval, and would be legal under the bill, said Rep. Brenk Siegrist, R-Council Bluffs.   the emphasis of the bill is that there are just tons of products that are unregulated from China and other countries which we're just not sure what's actually in them. This was really an attempt to try to get  something that has some semblance of regulation.

Retailers, manufacturers and distributors say the bill would severely restrict vape sales in the state, to the benefit of Big Tobacco.

The bill was amended to remove a requirement for two unannounced regulatory visits per year to vape shops, and instead allows checks by Department of Revenue or law enforcement as needed.

Opponents, including Iowas vaping industry, say the bill imposes a confusing and complicated registration scheme that has been challenged in courts in other states. They note the FDA has not released a comprehensive list of products that have received denials or injunctions, making it difficult for retailers and officials to know what is legal.

My concern is consumer safety issue  making sure these products that are in the marketplace have been vetted and tested to make sure that they're safe for consumers to use, said Rep. John Forbes, D-Urbandale. So I'm hopeful that this will work for the for the retailers in the state of Iowa.

House greenlights sequel for Iowa film tax incentive

Iowa House lawmakers passed a bill Tuesday for a limited revival of state tax incentives for movies and television shows filmed in Iowa.

House File 2662 would establish a two-year, $10 million pilot program from 2025 to 2026 under which movie projects that film in Iowa would be eligible for tax rebates worth up to 30% of the projects expenses on specified production costs.

Proponents say the new proposal will be an improvement upon the original, which was shut down in 2009 after an audit showed $26 million in improperly issued funds, resulting in at least seven criminal convictions.

The new bill was written by the Iowa Economic Development Authority, which would operate the program, and is designed to provide better oversight. The legislation, which is now headed to the Senate for consideration, would require an examination of qualified expenses submitted for reimbursement by a certified public accountant prior to disbursement of a rebate.

To be eligible, a film must have a production budget of at least $1 million and evidence that it is fully funded. Qualified productions include feature films, television series, documentary or unscripted series that is rated G, PG, PG-13, or R by the Motion Picture Association of America or the TV Parental Guidelines Monitoring Board.

Republicans voted down an amendment offered by Rep. Chuck Isenhart, D-Dubuque, that would have required the IEDA to request an audit of program expenses by the State Auditors Office after disbursing the first $5 million to identify any issues.

Both Isenhart and Rep. Jane Bloomingdale, R-Northwood, said theyre confident the programs second run can be successful.

I do personally feel like this is one of the best bills that we're going to pass this year, Bloomingdale said.

She said Iowa is missing out on millions of dollars in tourism and economic investment, as well as jobs, as it has been passed over as a filming location because of tax incentives in other states. Bloomingdale pointed to the tourism that's been created by Iowa movies such as the Field of Dreams and The Bridges of Madison County.

I'm excited for this to pass, she said. I'm excited to see what movie is the first movie in the state under the revived film tax incentive program.
DES MOINES  The chair of the Iowa House Government Oversight Committee said Davenports handling of public records was disgraceful and perplexing after the committee heard testimony about the citys decision to approve nearly $2 million in settlement agreements with staff without a public vote in 2023.

On Wednesday, lawmakers on the committee heard from people involved in related legal disputes with the city of Davenport over public records and requests for information about the agreements, which included a $1.6 million settlement with former City Administrator Corri Spiegel.

Rep. Brooke Boden, R-Indianola and the committee chair, pointed to the extensive legal action Davenport has taken as it resists requests to provide documents about the separation, questioning the use of taxpayer dollars.

As a representative of the people from my district and the state of Iowa, I am personally disappointed in Davenports decision on how to handle requests in those matters, and I personally do not want to see any governmental body getting comfortable with this course of action, she said.

Davenport city officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Wednesday.

The Davenport City Council approved the settlement agreements last year without a public vote, and the city did not make Spiegel's agreement public until more than a month after it was approved, and after the Nov. 7, 2023, election that included city offices. The council also approved settlement agreements between $100,000 and $200,000 with two administrative employees.

The citys separation with Spiegel included $1 million for emotional pain and suffering because of prolonged and documented instances of harassment by some elected officials over the previous eight years.

In December, two months after the agreements were signed, the Davenport City Council voted to ratify the agreements in an open session.

Quad-Cities residents Allen Diercks and David Ezra Sidran, both of whom are involved in lawsuits with the city, testified at the meeting. Randy Evans, executive director of the Iowa Freedom of Information Council, which is seeking to intervene in Sidrans case, also testified.

Pointing to Iowas open meetings law, Evans told lawmakers there may be times that a city council needs to meet in private when discussing terms of a settlement agreement or other personnel matters. But the approval of the agreement, Evans said, should have been done in an open meeting.

The issue with Davenport is that they skipped that one important element at the end of the process, which was making a decision in public, he said. And the law is plainly clear there, even if they choose not to abide by it.

Davenport interim City Attorney Brian Heyer said in December that the decision to eventually approve the agreements in open session was made on the advice of outside legal counsel.

Diercks sued the city in January, alleging the city broke the law in approving the settlements and they should be voided. Sidran, who has requested numerous records, was sued by the city, which is asking the court to determine whether a letter sent by Spiegel to the City Council is a public record.

In a news release, the city of Davenport said it named Sidran a defendant only because he requested the records and not in an attempt to discourage requests.

"The city of Davenport is neither seeking to recover anything of value from Dr. Sidran, nor to obtain any type of order from the court prohibiting Dr. Sidran from engaging in any activity related to the city," the news release said.

Mike Meloy, an attorney representing Diercks, said that Davenport has been challenging any effort by the public to obtain more information about the settlements.

Something doesnt smell right here, ladies and gentlemen, he said. Why is the city fighting so hard to keep these matters from the public eye?

Meloy asked committee members to investigate the matter and ask the Iowa attorney general to investigate Davenports conduct. State Auditor Rob Sand has also subpoenaed for documents from the citys meetings around the separation agreements, which the city has resisted in court.

Lawmakers want more information

The oversight hearing was requested by Rep. Gary Mohr, R-Bettendorf, who introduced a bill this year to strengthen Iowas open meetings and records laws.

Mohr said he was frustrated that the city had not given answers to questions from lawmakers and the public about its handling of the separations. He said he thought the hearing was a good first step toward getting that information.

I simply think we need to use every level of government that we can to try to get answers to the questions about the building collapse, about the $2 million payout to the city employees, he said. The citizens of the Quad-Cities, particularly Davenport, who are footing the bill for those tax dollars, they need answers to those questions.

Mohr said he hoped the Senate took up the public records bill the House passed last month.

Davenport officials were not invited to the hearing Wednesday. Boden said since the city was in pending lawsuits it might be more difficult to get them to testify.

Boden said she would like to get more information about the issue from city officials and other stakeholders. While she said she wants the Senate to pass the Houses open records bill, she said she is not sure if the committee will recommend any further specific action on the subject this year.

There are a lot of people to hear from. There are a lot of things to take care of, she said. But if its something we need to do, something we need to take up, we will.

Rep. Lindsay James, D-Dubuque and the vice chair of the committee, said she hoped the committee hearing pushed the Senate to pass the open records bill.

I would hope that this would give our Senate counterparts a real opportunity to think about the law that we just passed to them around educating all government entities on these issues, she said.

Photos: Gov. Reynolds tours site of The Davenport collapse
DES MOINES  McKenzie Snow, a former Trump administration education official and Gov. Kim Reynolds nominee to direct the Iowa Department of Education, was praised by some Iowa public school leaders  including from the states largest district  but also criticized for her dearth of public education experience during a public hearing Tuesday.

The hearing at the Iowa Capitol  a procedural rarity in the Iowa Legislature for gubernatorial nominees  was requested by Iowa Senate Democrats. The Senate later this year will vote on whether to confirm Snow as state education director.

Reynolds appointed Snow, the former deputy secretary of education for Virginia, on June 22, 2023. Snow, who is paid $200,000 a year, was appointed to replace Chad Aldis, who resigned after just three months on the job. He left for unspecified family reasons.

Snows appointment is subject to a two-thirds confirmation in the Senate during the current legislative session; if all 34 Senate Republicans vote for her, that would be enough. The two Republicans on the three-member panel that conducted Tuesday mornings hearing said they plan to support her nomination.

Since we first met last summer, I have witnessed her collaboration. Her knowledge level is broad and advanced, Sen. Ken Rozenboom, a Republican from Pella, a member of the panel and chair of the Senate Education Committee, said during the hearing. And we share this passion for early childhood literacy, which is absolutely foundational to any childs experience in school.

Sen. Herman Quirmbach, a Democrat from Ames and a retired professor at Iowa State University, said he does not plan to vote in support of Snows nomination because of her lack of experience in public education and what he said was her unwillingness to answer his questions about her resume and public education funding.

I think that our teachers, our parents, our students in Iowa public education need to have greater degree of confidence in the experience of our leaders in the Department of Education, feeling that the leaders have had a shared experience, that they have gone through the process, that they have developed the skills, that they have the requisite professional credentials, Quirmbach said during the hearing. And that theyre willing to take clear positions as far as maintaining the strength of our schools, and the funding related to that. I have not had any indication (of that) today.

Aldis was confirmed last year largely along party lines, with the support of all Republicans and three Democrats, including Quirmbach. Aldis faced opposition by other Democrats because, similar to Snow, he had never worked as an educator or school administrator. Snow previously worked in then-President Donald Trumps administration as a K-12 policy director under his secretary of education, Betsy DeVos.

Snow also has worked as a division director for the New Hampshire Department of Education, and as a policy director for the Foundation for Excellence in Education, an education think tank founded by former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush. The foundation has advocated for expanding charter schools and taxpayer assistance for private schools.

But multiple Iowa public school leaders spoke at the hearing in support of Snows nomination, including the superintendent of the Des Moines Public School District, another superintendent who oversees three small districts in rural eastern Iowa, the dean of the University of Iowas College of Education, the president of Des Moines Area Community College and the president of the Iowa Board of Education.

Ive had the pleasure of working as a dean for over 15 years in three different states and worked with many state department of (education) directors, and I would say in our time that weve worked together, I would put Director Snow at the very top, Dan Clay, the UI dean, said while listing examples of his experience working with Snow.

Director Snow is highly collaborative and the kind of leader Iowa schools need, Clay said. She listens very carefully. She asks the right questions. She understands the challenges and opportunities. I will say this: After all of the state department of (education) directors I worked with, I look for three things: Does she have the knowledge and the skills and the disposition to lead our schools in Iowa? And I think thats a resounding yes.

Snows nomination also will be considered in the Senate Education Committee before receiving the confirmation vote from the full Senate.

Caleb McCullough of The Gazette-Lee Des Moines Bureau contributed.

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As of about 10 a.m. Wednesday morning, the 2100 block of Central Boulevard is closed as the city-county Special Response Team serves a "high-risk" search warrant for drugs.

Law enforcement asked the public to avoid the area and use an alternate route for travel until the scene is cleared.

The Special Response Team was used to execute the search warrant since law enforcement believes there are multiple guns inside the residence.

According to the Rapid City Police Department, the search warrant is the result of an ongoing investigation and "our dedication to removing illegal drugs from our community, which plays a significant role in reducing violence and crime."

"We have seen, and it is commonly known, that illicit drug use and drug distribution results in higher crime rates and increased violence," Assistant Chief Scott Sitts said in an email to the media. "Rapid City is not immune to illegal drugs playing a role in violence and increased crime, as the vast majority of homicides that have occurred in Rapid City have a direct drug nexus."

Sitts said it is concerning that the criminal activities were happening so close to an elementary school  Meadowbrook Elementary School.

"We are ending that illegal activity today," Sitts said.

He added proactive efforts and investigations are critical in promoting public safety and reducing violence and overall crime and encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity and criminal behavior.
Gregory Landers, a 53-year-old man accused of shooting and killing 30-year-old Acey Morrison at a mobile home north of Rapid City in Aug. 2022, pleaded not guilty Tuesday to manslaughter, drug and firearm charges.

A grand jury indicted Landers on Feb. 8, about a year-and-a-half after Morrison was shot at Landers' Country Road residence.

A few days after the shooting, law enforcement stated the homeowner  now identified as Landers  reported the shooting, underwent an interview and remained cooperative. In Jan. 2023, investigators handed their case over to the Pennington County State's Attorney's Office.

The indictment charges Landers with first-degree manslaughter, unauthorized ingestion of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by someone with a former drug conviction.

The U.S. Marshals Service arrested him on Feb. 14 in Decatur, Indiana. He was in Pennington County Court March 7 for his initial appearance. Circuit Court Judge Heidi Linngren arraigned Landers on the charges Tuesday.

Landers, who appeared with his defense attorney, Matthew Rappold, said he understood his rights, the charges against him and the potential penalties.

First-degree manslaughter is a class C felony with a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $50,000 fine. The drug ingestion charge is a class 5 felony with a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The firearm charge is a class 6 felony with a maximum sentence of two years in prison and up to a $4,000 fine.

Landers is held on a $50,000 cash only bond. He is scheduled to appear in court at 3:30 p.m. April 23 for a motions hearing.
Mining exploration company U.S. Critical Materials Corp. announced a significant discovery of the critical mineral gallium in the Sheep Creek mining exploration area in a press release last week. However, the finding was initially reported by the company almost a year ago.

The corporation described gallium as essential to national security efforts. Currently, the U.S. is 100% dependent on imported gallium. Most of that comes from China, a nation that recently placed export restrictions on gallium and other minerals frequently relied upon in tech and national defense.

Gallium is used for semiconductors, smartphones, satellite systems and defense systems. U.S. Critical Materials said the deposit of high-grade gallium could be mined profitably in its 6,700 acres of claims in Sheep Creek. The area is 13 miles south of Painted Rocks State Park and about 36 miles south of Darby.

U.S. Critical Materials prime gallium claims average over 300 ppm (parts per million) and go as high as 1,370 ppm, U.S. Critical Materials President James Hedrick said. Gallium can be separated profitably at 50 ppm. U.S. Critical Materials looks forward to being the primary gallium producer in the United States."

The corporation has previously described the site as the highest-grade rare-earth deposit in the country. Rare-earth minerals are typically used in technology devices.

In a February interview, the U.S. Critical Materials Director Ed Cowle told the Ravalli Republic and the Missoulian he planned to submit a plan of operations for exploratory work by this spring with a prediction made for April. Cowle did not expect a permit for drilling to be secured this year though. The company envisions mining to be operational in about five years.

Gallium is relatively common in Montana, although concentrations of the mineral vary. A fact sheet produced by the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG) shows several dozen sites where its expected to occur as part of other sphalerite deposits in Montana, as well as a byproduct from past operations at the Columbia Falls aluminum plant.

While the recent press release by the company touts the outstanding quality of the gallium found in Sheep Creek, the grade of the mineral cant be considered consistent throughout, according to MBMG Economic Geologist Adrian Van Rythoven. Before drilling takes place, evaluations of deposits are largely premature and fail to represent the area as a whole.

Van Rythoven has been to Sheep Creek himself and has evaluated samples there.

Are there rare-earth deposits there? Van Rythoven said. Yes, there is and there is high-grade gallium in some spots. Is it exceptional? Exceptional if you only look at the high-grade stuff. But we know that's not the entire deposit.

Van Rythoven said its hard to determine the economic viability without any actual drilling taking place yet. The company has only explored roughly 25% of the considered mining site. Most recorded samples of gallium originate from rocks picked up on the surface or from past mining passages made for niobium, another critical mineral, in the 1950s. As noted by the company in the past, the environment has yet to be disturbed.

The press release has the corporation describing the finding of gallium as a major discovery, with media outlets covering it as such. A recent Huffington Post article, for instance, was titled The U.S. may have just scored a win against China in the Battle over a key mineral around the reported discovery.

Yet a document by Hedrick on the U.S. Critical Materials website had already announced the past results of gallium samples at Sheep Creek nearly a year ago.

A difference between the two is that the initial document described a higher average gallium content in samples than the press release did. In the document released in June, the gallium claims sampled averaged 692 ppm. The press release last week said prime samples averaged just over 300 ppm.

"We chose to be more conservative in the recent report and just include the recent data," U.S. Critical Materials Director of Operations Rachel Winn said in a statement to the Ravalli Republic. "What prompted the announcement was the fact that we were encouraged by various interest groups to announce these facts based on China placing export restrictions on gallium."

Stock prices surged for its publicly traded partner company after the corporations announcement Thursday. U.S. Critical Metals Corp., which the company is partnered and shares executives with, saw its stock nearly double on the Canadian Securities Exchange following the announcement Thursday.

U.S. Critical Materials Corp. is a shell company with ownership traced to Canada.

As previously reported by the Missoulian, leaders of the company have a history of fraud. Two of the leaders, CEO Geoffrey Williams and Director Cowles, allegedly breached fiduciary duties and were fired from the U.S. Rare Earths Inc. after violating federal law. Another, Director Harvey Klebanoff, otherwise known as Harvey Kaye, was convicted and sentenced for illegally manipulating Magic Marker Corp. stock.

U.S. Critical Metals Corp. is based in Vancouver and is incorporated under the laws of British Columbia, requiring the company to meet certain disclosure laws.

Its typical for mining exploration companies to be based in Canada. About two-thirds of capital for mining exploration is raised on the securities exchanges based in Canada, according to Van Rythoven.

Van Rythoven describes himself as pro-mining, with a background in the mining industry and rare-earth minerals. Still, he expressed frustration with some of the misleading nature of the U.S. Critical Materials press releases on Sheep Creek. He said rare-earth mining is necessary for the life Americans want to live and Montana has great potential for that, but he understands residents' concerns with a potential mine in the Bitterroot National Forest.

Montana has very high potential to be a supplier of critical minerals, Van Rythoven said. So, the geology is really good. I always joke rocks are easy, people are hard. The big problem that we have is that mining is sometimes a dirty business. It's gotten a lot better from a hundred years ago, but there is no mine that has no impact to the environment.

Conservation groups have previously called on the U.S. Forest Service for a complete environmental assessment involving the public before the approval of any activities on the mining site last February.

Researcher Philip W. Ramsey, who has previously presented his research on the U.S. Critical Materials and the Sheep Creek mining exploration area to local citizens, told the Ravalli Republic the company doesnt need to go destroying the environment for a mineral like gallium that is common in Montana. He described the recent reannouncement of discovered gallium as an attempt to stay relevant by the company.

In a recent letter shared with the Ravalli Republic, Ramsey said exploration companies should look to abandoned mines for gallium production, instead of creating new mines.

Montana hosts dozens of abandoned mines whose waste sites are prospective sources of gallium, Ramsey stated. Lets not risk our water, our economy, and our way of life for an element that we could get from abandoned mines. By reprocessing mine wastes, Montana can advance with rare-earth element and gallium production, enriching and cleaning our state at the same time.




TOKYO (AP)  Japans Cabinet on Tuesday approved a plan to sell future next-generation fighter jets that its developing with Britain and Italy to other countries, in the latest move away from the countrys postwar pacifist principles.





The contentious decision to allow international arms sales is expected to help secure Japans role in the joint fighter jet project and part of a move to build up the Japanese arms industry and bolster its role in global security.





The Cabinet also endorsed a revision to Japans arms equipment and technology transfer guidelines to allow coproduced lethal weapons to be sold to countries other than the partners.





Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said the changes are necessary given Japan's security environment, but stressed that Japan's pacifist principles remain unchanged.





In order to achieve a fighter aircraft that meets the necessary performance and to avoid jeopardizing the defense of Japan, it is necessary to transfer finished products from Japan to countries other than partner countries, Hayashi told reporters, adding that Tokyo will follow a strict approval process for jet sales. We have clearly demonstrated that we will continue to adhere to our basic philosophy as a peaceful nation, he said.





Japan has long restricted arms exports under the countrys pacifist constitution, but has rapidly taken steps to deregulate amid rising regional and global tensions, especially from nearby China.





The decision on jets will allow Japan to export lethal weapons it coproduces to other countries for the first time.





Japan is working with Italy and the U.K. to develop an advanced fighter jet to replace its aging fleet of American-designed F-2 fighters, and the Eurofighter Typhoons used by the U.K. and Italian militaries.





Japan, which was previously working on a homegrown design to be called the F-X, agreed in December 2022 to merge its effort with a British-Italian program called the Tempest. for deployment in 2035. The joint project, known as the Global Combat Air Program or GCAP, is based in the U.K.





Japan hopes the new plane will offer advanced capabilities Japan needs amid growing tensions in the region, giving it a technological edge against regional rivals China and Russia.





Because of its wartime past as aggressor and the devastation that followed its defeat in World War II, Japan adopted a constitution that limits its military to self-defense. The country long maintained a strict policy to limit transfers of military equipment and technology and ban all exports of lethal weapons.





Opponents have criticized Prime Minister Fumio Kishidas government for committing to the fighter jet project without providing an explanation to the public or seeking approval for the major policy change.





To address such concerns, the government is limiting exports of codeveloped lethal weapons to the jet for now, and has promised that no sales will be made for use in active wars.





The government also assured that the revised guideline for the time being only applies to the jet and that it would require Cabinet approval to do so. Potential purchasers will be also limited to the 15 countries that Japan has signed defense partnership and equipment transfer deals with.





Recent polls suggest that public opinion is divided on the plan.





In 2014, Japan began to export some nonlethal military supplies, and in a latest move last December, it approved a change that would allow sales of 80 lethal weapons and components that it manufactures under licenses from other countries back to the licensors. The change cleared the way for Japan to sell U.S.-designed Patriot missiles to the United States, helping replace munitions that Washington is sending to Ukraine.





In its decision, the Cabinet said that the arms export ban on finished products would hinder efforts to develop the new jet, and limit Japan to a supporting role in the project. Italy and the U.K. are eager to make sales of the jet in order to defray development and manufacturing costs.





Kishida sought Cabinet approval before signing the GCAP agreement in February, but it was delayed by resistance from his junior coalition partner, the Buddhist-backed Komeito party.





The change also comes as Kishida is planning an April state visit to Washington, where he is expected to stress Japans readiness to take on a greater role in military and defense industry partnerships.




Kathmandu, Nepal, March 27, 2024: Deputy prime minister and foreign minister, who is in Beijing now, meets with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee on March 26 in Beijing, the capital of China.





During the meeting the duo discussed on ranges of issues related to the bilateral relationship including the Belt and Road cooperation (BRI). Foreign Minister Shrestha praised the China for the support to Nepal.





The new government of Nepal attaches great importance to relations with China and willing to work with China to advance the Belt and Road cooperation and decides to join the Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative, Shrestha states in the meeting.





Responding to the concerns raised by Nepalese counterpart, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang stated that China has always placed Nepal in an important direction of the neighboring diplomacy as it is a friendly neighbor and strategic partner.





According to the media reports, he also stated that China is ready to work with Nepal to promote the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and advance the China-Nepal strategic partnership of cooperation featuring ever-lasting friendship for development and prosperity to a new and higher level.
Butcher Brown has won the 2024 Newlin Music Prize for their album Solar Music.

Solar Music, released Oct. 6, 2023, was selected from a list of 20 nominees spanning all genres of music. All of the nominees were required to be local to Richmond.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Butcher Brown wrote: Were humbled today to have won the 2024 Newlin Music Prize for Solar Music. Our love for Richmond permeates everything we do, especially this album. We look forward to repping this city & its incredible music community for years to come. Our deepest thanks & appreciation.

We're humbled today to have won the 2024 Newlin Music Prize for Solar Music. Our love for Richmond permeates everything we do, especially this album. We look forward to repping this city & its incredible music community for years to come. Our deepest thanks & appreciation.  pic.twitter.com/Feb965tRgR  BUTCHER BROWN (@butcherBRWN) March 25, 2024

The album Solar Music is described as a mix of jazz, funk, hip-hop, dance and soul. Butcher Brown has been a part of the Richmond music scene 2013. The band consists of five members, each with their own instrumental skills, and they have released seven albums and several singles to date.

Butcher Brown also recently performed five songs on NPRs Tiny Desk series.

Butcher Brown will receive $2,500 for their win, and each of the other nominees will receive $250.

After the third year of the Newlin Prize, President Doug Nunnally said this years talent was impressive.

The depth of talent within the short list was remarkable, offering a comprehensive glimpse into Richmonds diverse music landscape, Nunally said. By significantly increasing the prize money and providing awards for every artist on the shortlist, we aim to cultivate yet another remarkable year of music in Virginias capital, setting the stage for an even more thrilling prize next year.

The Newlin Music Prize is awarded to the best full-length album released in the Richmond area throughout the previous year. The winner is decided by a jury of Richmonds music community members. Named for the late Dika Newlin, a VCU professor and musical performer, the monetary prize is meant to encourage Richmond musicians to continue to produce music.

From the Archives: A look back at the Richmond region's railroad past
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Chipotle Mexican Grill is set to open its new location across from The Diamond on Friday.

The new Chipotle will be located at 3064 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd. near the Raising Canes that opened earlier this year. It will have a drive-thru lane that allows guests to pick up digital orders without leaving their cars. The new restaurant marks the first Chipotlane in the city of Richmond.

New on the menu: visitors can try the fiery chicken al pastor marinated in pineapple, lime and spices for a limited time.

Chipotle will be hiring at the new location. According to the company, there are approximately 30 jobs per location.

Other tenants headed to the Scotts Walk retail/restaurant project include Marcos Pizza and Toast New American Gastropub, which is planning to open in June.

Chesterfield Restaurant Week

The first Chesterfield Restaurant Week kicks off this Friday and continues through April 7.

Hosted by the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce, Chesterfield Restaurant Week features 39 participating restaurants that will offer select food and drink specials throughout the week.

Each restaurant will donate $1 to the Chesterfield Food Bank Outreach Center for every special menu item sold during the event.

It is our goal to showcase the culinary talent we have in this county, and make it very easy for restaurants to participate, all while benefiting a great organization, said Karen Webb, president of the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce.

Some restaurants will be offering a special three course menu, such as Midlothian Chefs Kitchen which will be serving curry cauliflower soup as the starter, smoked chicken breast as the entree and strawberry basil cake for dessert for $44.90.

Oceano Coastal Restaurant will be offering a three course menu featuring seared tuna, mashed plantain, mango salsa and jalapeno crema as the appetizer, Mafaldine vongole with Mafaldine pasta and littleneck clams as the main and tres leche cake for dessert for $49.

While other restaurants will be offering a special dish such as ML Steaks scallops with asparagus risotto and lemon veloute for $38 or Sedona Taphouses wild man filet mignon with melted Fontina, mushrooms, gorgonzola cream sauce and garlic whipped potatoes for $32.90.

I think its really great, said Stephen Summers, chef at Red Embers at Uptown Alley. It gets our name out there, but its also for people to come in and try our food.

Visit the Chambers website for a full list of participating restaurants and menu items at chesterfieldchamber.com.

And mark your calendars for Richmond Restaurant Week which will return for the spring session April 22-28.

20 new Richmond-area restaurants opened in 2024 so far ML Steak Chesterfield Lalo's Margaritas Lucky Chopsticks The Bowl Vietnamese Cuisine Blue Bee Cider Tito's Taqueria Beaucoup Scott's Shawarma Fogo de Chao Lillian West End Importante Bodega Bar River City Wood Fire Pizza Chipotle Raising Cane's Bad As Philly Brecotea Bakery & Cafe Pho 60 Cafe Perry's Steakhouse & Grille The Hive Bar and Grill KavaClub
A Netherlands-based crane component manufacturer is moving into a warehouse in western Henrico County, the county said Wednesday. It is the 75th international business to set up a location within Henrico.

Ropeblock will place its first U.S. facility at 2115 Westmoreland St., near Staples Mill Road and the Libbie Mill development. The company manufactures the sockets, blocks and swivels and wire rope sheaves used in large construction cranes.

The 12,000-square-foot warehouse and office will be a hub for storing the companys products, which are used across the United States. Ropeblock will invest $100,000 in the site, the county said.

The move will create two jobs, said Anthony Romanello, the director of the Henrico Economic Development Authority. Ropeblock supplies crane components worldwide, and 30% of its business is in the United States.

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Virginia State Police are investigating an incident in which at least one Hopewell police officer shot a suspect while serving a search warrant at the suspects home, according to VSP spokesperson Jessica Shehan.

Shehan said Hopewell police officers were executing the warrant on a residence in the 1100 block of Krupar Street at around 8 a.m. Wednesday when a 38-year-old male who lives at the residence displayed a weapon.

Officers opened fire on and struck the man, Shehan said. It was not immediately clear how many times he was shot.

Shehan said the man was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The incident remains under investigation.

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A teaching assistant at Meadowbrook High School was charged with assaulting a male high school student, Chesterfield Police said Wednesday.

Police said the incident took place on March 21 and involved a juvenile male student at the school. Police obtained a warrant that day.

The teaching assistant charged is Travonna Kenyear of Richmond.

Kenyear, 57, was released on a summons. The charge is a misdemeanor. Kenyear has no prior criminal record.

Reached by phone, Kenyear described being shocked that shes being charged with the offense. She said the juvenile in question is a severely autistic student with whom shed been working for three years.

On Monday, Kenyear said he was severely agitated, but said that his agitation never led her to hit him.

Im a grandmother of five. I would never, ever harm a child, Kenyear said.

Kenyear said the charge has come as a shock to the whole department, and that shes received an outpouring of support since she was placed on administrative leave Monday.

Im in disbelief that its happening. Theyve taken this charge far too far, Kenyear said.

Shawn Smith, spokesman for Chesterfield County Schools, said via email Wednesday that the employee will not return to the school division pending adjudication of the charges.

Shes set to be arraigned on April 10 in Chesterfield General District Court.

Top five weekend events: Maymont Easter, Easter on Parade, NASCAR Easter on Parade Maymont Easter Secretariat Day NASCAR Chesterfield Restaurant Week
Last summer, United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy laid out what he called a splendid vision for the future of the Postal Service.

In his vision, one of Americas oldest agencies would shed the shackles of inefficiency and become greener, leaner, and finally competitive with logistics titans like Amazon.

DeJoy said his plan  Delivering for America  would save his agency from dire financial straits and give America the best national delivery system in the world.

But in Virginia, the opposite happened.

The Commonwealth became the worst state in the country for on-time delivery of first-class mail, according to the main watchdog agency that oversees the post office. Since October of last year, Virginia was last place for on-time mail delivery, with its D score a full 13 points below its nearest competitor. Virginias mail delivery rate dropped from 89% in 2020 to 66%, where it sits now.

About this story This is the second in a two-part series about ongoing mail delivery issues in the Richmond region. Aim your smartphone camera at this code and tap the link to read part one, which looks at the impact of lengthy delays. YOUR TURN: Are you experiencing mail issues? Tell us about it. Email lpowell@timesdispatch.com.

Records reviewed by the Times-Dispatch and Lee Enterprises' Public Service Journalism Team suggest that Richmonds mail problem is directly linked to the rollout of Delivering for America, a key leg of which involves consolidating mail sorting into larger, centralized sorting centers.

Richmonds Sandston facility was the first facility in the country to undergo DeJoys efficiency makeover, which began in 2023. When activated, the 719,000-square-foot building became the main hub for central Virginia and Hampton Roads.

Publicly, problems rose to a boil in December, when U.S. Senator Tim Kaine fumed over the mishandling of mail containing hundreds of cancer screening tests on behalf of the citys local VA hospital. The tests were unusable.

In private, the agency was well aware that Delivering for Americas first test-case was coming off the rails. Challenges in execution had impacted service performance on a regional level, lawyers for the Postal Service wrote in response to grilling by the federal Postal Regulatory Commission, which oversees USPS. Pre-existing weaknesses also hampered the rollout, as well as issues with machine sort plans and adherence to the operating plan outlined by DeJoy, the lawyers wrote.

At one point, a team of 20 personnel from the agencys headquarters in D.C. were dispatched to Richmond to troubleshoot, according to the filing. All of these problems were avoidable, the lawyers wrote.

The Postal Service has since undertaken extensive efforts to address these issues in Richmond, lawyers wrote, but did not detail those efforts.

In response to an interview request, a spokesperson for the post office, Philip Bogenberger, replied with an emailed statement.

The new Richmond Regional Processing and Distribution Center (RPDC) is part of the Postal Service's Delivering for America plan to modernize our mail and package processing network by combining and centralizing mail processing operations, Bogenberger said.

Bogenberger said the agency made significant investments to ensure that USPS can provide reliable services for years to come, and that a vast majority of mail in the Richmond area is being delivered on time.

Local management is aware of the concerns of some local customers regarding their mail delivery and are working quickly to resolve any issues, said Bogenberger.

A black hole

A thorough examination of systemic failures is expected to be made public in the first week of April. Thats when the agencys main watchdog has said theyll release an audit of the Sandston facility.

Until then, politicians and even postal regulators have remained in the dark about mail problems in Richmond.

An independent ombudsman for the Postal Regulatory Commission said the Postal Service is playing it coy with the commission in every respect as far as these problems.

It makes you wonder what precisely is going on, said Kenneth Moeller, public representative for the Postal Regulatory Commission. Some of this stuff is just too outrageous. I really would love to know what is going on in Richmond. My attorney who lives there said its like a black hole.

In a filing to the PRC by Moeller and attorney John D. Avila on March 15, the team noted that even those employed by the Postal Services regulatory agency are not immune from significant mail delays.

One member, who resides in the Richmond area, was twice charged with late fees after the local assessor did not receive his personal property tax payments until nearly a month after they were mailed, Moeller wrote in the filing. Though it pales in comparison with the difficulties experienced by other individuals, this anecdote illustrates why consumers often switch to online payments, thus driving more mail volume out of the system.

The Postal Regulatory Commission said in a statement that there has been insufficient transparency from the USPS and that it shares the concerns of the public and members of Congress regarding the service issues around the country that are related to the implementation of the Postal Services Delivering for America plan.

Recently, Richmond's elections chief told voters not to risk letting their ballot be swallowed by a dysfunctional Postal Service.

The reports weve been receiving about delayed, misplaced, or even missing mail are deeply troubling, especially as we approach crucial electoral events like the Presidential Election in November, Richmond General Registrar Keith Balmer wrote in a blog post.

Its not just Richmond

Other sites that have rolled out Regional Processing and Distribution Centers have faced similar challenges, the Postal Service has admitted, despite its lawyers stating that the Postal Service has reviewed the weaknesses identified in the Richmond implementation and made appropriate adjustments to our planning and execution processes and timelines.

Its a national problem; its not just Richmond, said Steve Hutkins, a retired New York University professor who now chronicles USPS issues on his Save the Post Office website. Things are just not working as planned. Theyre making big changes faster than the network can keep up with it, and its not even clear how long this will go on and what the outcome will be when its all over.

In Atlanta, the deployment of the RPDC allegedly left other post offices so short-staffed that they couldnt function, according to what a local union leader told Atlanta news outlets.

The void that they left behind was so great, that they dont have enough people left behind, Mitchell Taylor, president of the American Postal Workers Union, told WSB-TV in Atlanta.

There were also reports of mail trucks waiting hours to process and receive mail for delivery at the RPDC, and alarming reports and allegations of criminal activity, according to U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Georgia.

They have miles of tractor trailers trying to get in and out of the facility, Hutkins said. You can see videos from helicopters of just the trucks backed up for hours and hours and hours.

In Houston, a longtime USPS employee told KHOU-TV that two package sorting machines were removed from its facility to make way for one massive sorting machine that was to be installed as part of its RPDC transformation. But the bigger machine didnt fit in the facility.

They basically ended up with no package sorting machine, Moeller said of the situation in Houston, leading to a backup of packages and mail just sitting at the facility.

Regulators at the PRC asked USPS why the adjustments  the Postal Service made after it learned from its experience with the Richmond RPDC were insufficient to mitigate against negative impacts of the Houston RPDC on service performance in (the) Houston area.

In response, the USPS stated that a confluence of disruptive events impacted the Houston RPDC.

"The combination of machine removal, space constraints, lack of employee availability, and weather disruptions caused delays, lawyers for the USPS told the PRC in a March 8 filing.

As with the launch of the Richmond RPDC region, we continue to investigate the root causes of the challenges faced and are building additional safeguards into future modernization plans, the lawyers wrote.
On Feb. 24, 1977, a 612-foot sulfur tanker, the Marine Floridian, crashed into the Benjamin Harrison Bridge, a steel and concrete span near Hopewell, knocking out a 113-foot section of the bridge and leaving a 241-foot steel span on the tankers deck. The bridges north tower collapsed days later.

No one was killed in that bridge collapse. Drivers of two trucks on the bridge, Clarence R. Johns of Mechanicsville and Frederick ONeal of Virginia Beach, got out and ran to safety before the 25,000-ton tanker rammed the bridge, according to Prince George County Sheriff John F. Atwood.

Coast Guard officials quickly reported that the tanker was experiencing a malfunction in its steering mechanisms. The ship veered to the left as it neared the bridges opening and it rammed into the north abutment.

The bridge tender, Harry C. Frazier of Hopewell, later told a Coast Guard Board inquiry that he was sitting in the control house atop the north tower when the ship hit the bridge. He was unhurt.

For a while it looked like I was going to eat breakfast off the captains table, he said.

The National Transportation Safety Board determined that the probable cause was inadequate maintenance and inspection of a manual transfer switch in an electrical circuit which opened by the force of gravity and thus interrupted electric power to the steering motor when the vessel was in a position from which it could not be stopped, or steering gear power restored before it collided with the bridge.

It found that another contributing factor was the operation of the vessel at a speed higher than necessary for a safe passage through the bridge opening.

The Allied Chemical Plant was the last stop for the Marine Floridian before it crashed into the bridge. The crash came as Virginia continued to respond to the Kepone disaster, in which Allied Chemical, a major nationwide chemical corporation, would pay more than $13 million in a one-of-a-kind legal settlement that birthed the Virginia Environmental Endowment.

The crash closed the lower James River to traffic between Hopewell and Richmond and added to drive times by closing a link between Charles City and Prince George counties. Although only about 3,000 cars a day used the bridge, it was then the only link across the James between Hampton Roads and Richmond. A boat shuttle service offered a short-term fix, featuring two fishing boats  The Capn Mad and The Big Buddy.

Ferry traffic had been an option for commuters for about 35 years before the 4,463-foot bridge opened in 1967.

About two weeks after the crash tug boats pushed and pulled the Marine Floridian down the James River to an industrial facility in Newport News, where it underwent inspection and repairs.

The ramming of the bridge had repercussions for businesses because barges moved under the bridge to carry supplies to businesses in the area.

Reconstruction of the bridge took 20 months and cost $9.5 million. The bridge reopened to traffic in the fall of 1978.

The Benjamin Harrison Bridge is named for a governor of Virginia and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He was the father of President William Henry Harrison and the great-grandfather of President Benjamin Harrison.
Former senior political advisor of China's Guizhou sentenced to life imprisonment

Xinhua) 11:09, March 27, 2024

CHONGQING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese court on Tuesday sentenced Zhou Jiankun, a former vice chairman of the Guizhou Provincial Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, to life in prison on charges of accepting bribes.

Zhou has been deprived of political rights for life, and all of his personal property will be confiscated, according to the verdict of the First Intermediate People's Court of Chongqing Municipality.

All of Zhou's illegal gains will be recovered and turned over to the state treasury, according to the court ruling.

The court found that Zhou took undue advantage of his various positions in Guizhou to seek benefits for relevant units and individuals in business operations, project contracting, project approval and other matters from 1999 to 2022, and accepted money and valuables worth over 108 million yuan (about 15.22 million U.S. dollars) in return.

Given that Zhou truthfully confessed his crime, reported most of the facts unknown to supervisory authorities, expressed remorse and returned his illicit gains, he was given a lighter punishment, according to the court.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
The Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority failed again on Wednesday to adopt a revised financial forecast to reflect declining sales revenues that have created an estimated $110 million shortfall in profits that the authority had promised for the pending two-year state budget.

Interim CEO Tom Kirby did not ask the authority board of directors to adopt the revised forecast for the second time this month, noting that Gov. Glenn Youngkin and the General Assembly had not asked for further updates since the scope of the projected shortfall became public on March 19. The board publicly reviewed the revised forecast then at the governors request.

Its the same numbers, Kirby said.

Instead, the ABC board is waiting on further options for cutting expenses, even though the authority cut almost $11 million to trim an estimated profit shortfall for the current fiscal year from $15.8 million to $4.9 million. It also is waiting on Youngkin and the assembly to agree on a final state budget from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2026, including a proposal by the assembly to give state employees raises of 3% each year, which ABC would have to use about $10 million in future profits to pay for its staff.

The board, which now includes three members appointed by the governor, talked at length on Wednesday about controlling expenses that Chairman Tim Hugo, a former Republican delegate from Fairfax County, said had grown under the previous governor and leadership at ABC.

There was no mention of the 5% annual growth in revenues that the Youngkin administration pushed the board to adopt last August in its current budget and included in the five-year state revenue forecast that he provided the Governors Advisory Council on Revenue Estimates. Instead, revenues had grown by 1.5% through February, as consumers buy less expensive brands of liquor in smaller bottles, which follows a national trend that emerged last year.

Obviously, its setting up ABC for failure with unrealistic goals, said Del. Paul Krizek, D-Fairfax, chairman of the House Appropriations subcommittee on public safety and transportation. He also is chairman of the House General Laws subcommittee overseeing ABC.

Hugo, whom Youngkin appointed as chairman 13 months ago, called in then-Chief Transformation Officer Eric Moeller to examine ABCs finances to determine why the margin of profit  the portion of sales revenues transferred to the state general fund budget  had declined.

Moeller, who left the administration early last month, pushed for $21.3 million cuts in ABC operating costs  primarily staff and consulting services  to increase the profit transferred to the state by the same amount. He also pushed the 5% annual increase in revenues to generate those profits.

In remarks to the board on Wednesday, Hugo commended the administration for sending people to ABC to examine its rising expenses and declining profit margins.

Im not sure people were watching the store, he said, citing higher expenses for the salaries of an increasing number of executives and directors and contracts for outside consultants.

Kirby, who succeeded former CEO Travis Hill in November, talked about the authoritys efforts to tighten controls on all expenses, including consulting contracts and purchases for displaying merchandise at ABCs 401 retail stores across the state.

Were seeing the effects of discipline, he said.

Hugo responded, Overdue discipline?

Greg Holland, a Richmond lawyer and board member, reminded the board of discussions that he and previous directors had more than two and a half years ago, during the COVID-19 pandemic, about the challenge of keeping staff.

The reason we are where we are is we had to increase what we paid our people, he said.

Holland also noted that ABC had to pay an additional $500,000 in January  more than two months after Hill resigned as CEO  because of a mistaken allocation of work hours by the authority for its retail stores.

Talk about responsibility! People have to accept responsibility for that, he said.

The squeeze on operating expenses also is having its effect on the ongoing modernization of the authoritys information technology systems, which Hill began with the General Assemblys consent when ABC was still a state agency. It became a semi-independent authority in 2018 under legislation signed into law three years earlier.

For years, ABC ran on end-of-life software and operating systems, for things as critical as (point of sales) and financials, Chief Information Officer Paul Williams said in an IT update to the board. The mountain of technical debt that has been addressed in the past five years has been a financial drain and a source of stress for the organization. We cannot repeat those mistakes.

However, ABC now is postponing some of its IT modernization projects because of the effort to cut costs, Williams said in response to questions by the board.

Its okay, he said, but its challenging.

PHOTOS: Virginia ABC warehouse
Gov. Glenn Youngkin vetoed 30 more bills Tuesday afternoon, many of them gun control measures, including proposals to ban the purchase and sale of assault-style weapons.

He also signed 31 measures and proposed amendments to six.

Youngkin has now vetoed 80 bills so far this year and 121 in his term, breaking Democrat Terry McAuliffes record of 120 in his four-year term from 2014 to 2018.

I swore an oath to defend the Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of Virginia, and that absolutely includes protecting the right of law-abiding Virginians to keep and bear arms, Youngkin said in a statement.

I am pleased to sign four public safety bills which are commonsense reforms with significant bipartisan support from the General Assembly, and offer recommendations to several bills which, if adopted, will make it harder for criminals to use guns in the commission of a violent act.

Youngkin has long signaled that he would veto the assault-weapons legislation and other gun control bills. During his State of the Commonwealth address on Jan. 10, Youngkin signaled little interest in further gun restrictions, saying Virginias gun laws are already among the toughest in the nation.

On Tuesday he vetoed an array of Democratic gun control measures ranging from age limits to waiting periods, from requirements for concealed carry permits and gun storage, to civil liability rules.

Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-Charlottesville, who sponsored the Senate version of the proposed ban on assault-style weapons, criticized the governor for what he called shameful and unthinking action.

News this afternoon that 2 more of my bills, prospectively banning assault style weapons, and keeping guns off college campuses are being vetoed. Shameful and unthinking action!  Creigh Deeds (@CreighDeeds) March 26, 2024

Del. Dan Helmer, D-Fairfax, sponsored the House version, which Youngkin also vetoed.

Youngkin wrote in his veto message: The Constitution precludes the Commonwealth from prohibiting a broad category of firearms widely embraced for lawful purposes, such as self-defense. Despite this, certain members of the General Assembly have pursued legislation banning most contemporary semiautomatic firearms and specific ammunition-feeding devices.

The governor added: Like all Virginians, I am profoundly troubled by the occurrences of mass shootings and crimes committed with firearms. The pain and sorrow inflicted by criminals with heinous intentions are truly heart-wrenching and should not be minimized for our communities, the victims, or their families.

Youngkin said Virginia should increase penalties for people who commit crimes with guns and do more to reform its behavioral health system.

While the measures differ, 10 states and Washington D.C. restrict assault-style weapons: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Washington state.

Youngkins vetoes included House Bill 454, sponsored by Del. Katrina Callsen, D-Albemarle, and Senate Bill 383, sponsored by Deeds, which would criminalize possession of a firearm in a building owned or operated by a public institution of higher education.

Youngkin wrote in his veto message: While I am committed to ensuring well-secured and safe college campuses in Virginia, this legislation does not adequately consider the numerous variations in Virginias diverse geographic, cultural, and societal norms across different regions of the Commonwealth.

Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, criticized the governor for vetoing his Senate Bill 258 to clarify when red flag orders can issue & can be used for minors who threaten to shoot up their schools.

Surovell posted to X: Public safety is about more than mandatory minimums & locking people up longer.

Youngkin wrote in his veto message: The legislation treats the Second Amendment as a secondary right compared to other constitutional guarantees, and the proposed expansion of substantial risk orders is excessively broad and overreaching.

The four gun-related measures Youngkin signed were House and Senate versions of bills to prevent parents from willfully allowing a child who poses a credible threat of violence to access a firearm and House and Senate bills barring the manufacture, transfer, or possession of an auto sear, an illegal device that converts firearms into an automatic weapon. Del. Michael Jones, D-Richmond, sponsored the House version of the auto sear legislation.

Youngkin has until April 8 to act on hundreds of remaining bills. On April 17 legislators will return to Richmond to take up Youngkins vetoes and proposed amendments.

Democrats hold a 21-19 edge in the Senate and a 51-49 edge in the House of Delegates, which means they are unlikely to muster the two-thirds vote required to overturn any of Youngkins vetoes.

Youngkin and Democratic legislative leaders are in a standoff over the states two-year budget. Youngkin asserts that the spending plan lawmakers adopted before they adjourned March 9 includes $2.6 billion in tax increases as a result of broadened application of the sales tax without offsetting tax cuts, and inclusion of budget language that would require Virginia to rejoin the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.

The governor and his Democratic opponents have both held news conferences to tout their favored versions of the states spending plan.

At the state Capitol on Tuesday morning, Sen. Mamie Locke, D-Hampton, extolled the General Assemblys budget plan and noted that Youngkin was on a record-breaking pace of vetoing bills.

That is what spoiled brats do when they dont get what they want, Locke said.

On Tuesday Youngkin also took part in a bill signing ceremony to highlight a measure that renames the Center for Rural Virginia in honor of former state Sen. Frank Ruff, R-Mecklenburg. Ruff won re-election in November, but then announced he was stepping down from the Senate in order to focus on his cancer treatment.

Virginia General Assembly opens 2024 session
It cant be said any clearer than this: Virginia is on the brink of disaster when it comes to helping people quit smoking cigarettes if Gov. Glenn Youngkin signs Senate Bill 550 and House Bill 1609 into law.

This legislation effectively bans most forms of vaping products while giving a major carve-out to the same products produced by big tobacco companies. This legislation will drive large numbers of consumers back to cigarettes in stark contrast to the decades spent encouraging people to give up the unhealthy practice.

The proposed law would ban cigarette alternative (vaping) products without first having a pre-market authorization order fully granted by the Food and Drug Administration. As the CEO of Accorto Regulatory Solutions, which is a Virginia-based regulatory and scientific advisory company, I am intimately familiar with the pre-market approval process for nicotine products and its implementation under the current leadership of the FDAs Center for Tobacco Products.

Existing federal law and FDA regulations, if implemented objectively and efficiently, would be effective in achieving a balance to ensuring only safe products are allowed on the market and that they arent inappropriately youth oriented, while encouraging innovation in the area of next generation nicotine harm-reduction products.

Although the FDA has been slow in approving products that have a legitimate and important role in reducing smoking of traditional combustible cigarettes, if Virginia reacts by banning products at the state level, even while the FDA is considering their application approval, it will not only harm consumers who are seeking safer alternatives to cigarettes, but also many legitimate Virginia-based businesses. This includes retailers, manufactures and even the scientific/regulatory firms such as Accorto that are providing robust scientific data to the FDA for the approval of alternative products. Furthermore, it will be yet another factor stifling innovation of safer products.

One needs to look no further than the list of companies that will benefit from the proposed legislative action in Virginia to understand what is really going on here. To state the obvious, it has little to do with consumer health but is the next chapter of big tobacco effectively lobbying, both directly and through a web of well-funded proxies, to legislate competitive products out of the market.

We urge the governor to reconsider this legislation and find a more balanced approach that protects public health without unfairly burdening businesses and consumers. Products that have legitimate pre-market approval applications submitted to the FDA should be allowed to continue to be marketed while the FDA considers their respective applications. Likewise, products that do not have legitimate pre-market applications should not be marketed.

It is concerning to see big tobaccos manipulation of government to squash competition by advocating for bills at the state level that aim to push alternative products from the market, despite their own products not receiving FDA pre-market approval.

These bills threaten to eliminate a large portion of cigarette alternative products from the market, thereby benefiting cigarette sales. This is clearly a step backward in the protection of public health. The potential impact on small businesses and public health in Virginia is alarming, highlighting the need for advocacy and pushback against such harmful regulations.

The potential passing of Senate Bill 550 in Virginia to effectively ban most vaping products except for those approved by the FDA will have devastating effects. The bills implications on public health, the economy and individual choices should be thoroughly considered before any decision is made.

Gov. Youngkin, on behalf of former smokers across the commonwealth, please do not allow big tobacco to creep back into the lives of Virginians. This legislation stands to only benefit big tobacco companies and prop up their lagging cigarette sales. Virginia should continue allowing adults to make adult decisions when it comes to the best way to give up cigarettes.

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Richmond native Sesha Joi Moon had intended to quietly leave the doomed U.S. House Office of Diversity and Inclusion. But CNN detonated that plan Friday after the office was dissolved as part of a government spending bill.

Its story on Americas latest attack on diversity, equity and inclusion went viral. Folks from as far away as Jordan flooded Moons email inbox with an outpouring of outrage, support and solidarity.

The Office of Diversity and Inclusion was launched four years ago as a nonpartisan and nonlegislative support office with the U.S. House of Representatives. Its stated mission was to help create and cultivate a congressional workforce reflective of the American people and to put the people in the peoples house.

For some of us, this sounds laudable and lovely; for others, thems fightin words. America has always been fickle in its embrace of inclusion and pursuit of a more perfect union. Given our nations habitual backlash in the face of progress, this offices demise was predictable.

Someone asked me if I was mad about the dissolution of my office, and I told them I was more so sad, Moon said during an interview Monday. Because I feel like its a sad day for America.

Her departure had been long-planned. Moon  who had previously served as director of diversity, equity and inclusion at the National Institute of Standards and Technology  said the people in her field are acutely aware of the tenuous state of DEI in the current national environment.

During our conversation, she seemed almost defiantly optimistic.

People are looking to me for guidance in this moment, she said. I dont have the luxury to worry and to fret and to be in fear. People need me in this moment. This work is so much bigger than all of us.

In June 2022, Moon was tapped to head the Office of Diversity and Inclusion by then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat. After Republicans gained a majority in the House, she was retained in the post by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who was soon ousted. Current House Speaker Mike Johnson asked Moon to stay on through the dissolution of the office as Moon negotiated positions for members of her staff in the newly formed Office of Talent Management.

I was offered the opportunity to stay on the Hill, but it would not have been through an equity lens. And that work is deeply important to me and is a non-negotiable, she said.

Moon, 40, will be leaving Capitol Hill in the next several weeks.

Its been a complete honor. But if I cant really focus on underserved and under-sought and underseen communities, thats my passion. So I knew it was time to go.

Moon, with her sister Enjoli Moon, is co-creator of The JXN Project, a historic preservation effort focused on Richmonds Jackson Ward, a National Historic Landmark District. She will direct her energies toward that effort with an eye toward Americas 250th anniversary commemoration. But first, shell allow herself the period of bereavement she never truly got to experience following the death last July of her father  the activist, entrepreneur and entertainer August Moon.

I have not been able to really just catch my breath since my Dad died, said Moon, who lives in Fairfax County with her wife, Janice Pritchett.

But Moon, though saddened by the dissolution of the office, has been heartened by the reaction.

The elimination of this particular office really hit people to their core in a way that Im encouraged by. Because Im like, Oh, people still care. People still see its value. And so, I appreciate this moment and Im leaning into it heavily.

Her bursting at the seams inbox included job offers, interview requests, speaking engagement invitations and entreaties that she pursue political office, specifically as mayor of Richmond.

I am for Richmond first and last, she said. Never say never. What I will say is, not right now.

When I look at my life, the ancestors have always given me my assignments. And I just kind of need to spend some time with what is meant for me to walk into next.

Her experience in Washington sounds like the vivid paradox that is animus toward diversity in a nation enriched and sustained by it.

Sadly, its mostly rooted in mis- and disinformation. Sentiments change, she said, when you sit down and you speak to a person like myself who can help you see yourself in it.

She noted that more than 400 House offices, across party lines, availed themselves of her offices services. She attributes this in part to finding a way to move the conversation past DEI and more towards DNA.

Indeed, there were few demographics uncovered by her office, whose inclusion efforts went beyond race, ethnicity, gender identity, religion and sexual orientation to encompass a vast spectrum of difference: immigrants, caregivers, military service members and their spouses, individuals with disabilities, ex-offenders and neurodivergent communities.

She painted a picture of Congress at odds with its image as a place of dysfunction and rancor. Her office may have been a lightning rod. But Moon says she was treated with nothing but kindness on both sides of the aisle as she went about the business of what she described as the best job ever.

Ive had to sit down with people and find a point of connection between me as a Black queer woman from Richmond, Virginia, and a white cis heterosexual man from Idaho, she said. Ive had to see what makes us the same and our differences, and it stretched me to the point that thats why I was good at my job.

In three years, she said, the office helped bring 734 people from marginalized communities into a total workforce of 10,930 people. And it wasnt enough to help people land those jobs; her office sought to ensure that they felt seen, safe, supported and secure.

We made that Hill better. And we walk away helping to inspire a whole different generation of public servants to take the torch. And so, you just kind of have to know sometimes that some assignments are not forever, Moon said.

Thats why I can just walk away feeling very affirmed and recommitted as I move on to whats next in my personal and professional journey, she said. Because I did the work. And I made sure that the Peoples House really reflects the people.

Close This photo of 508 St. James Street in Jackson Ward was taken about 1978. This home at 508 Saint James Street is in Jackson Ward. Photo was taken on Thursday, April 8, 2021. The Skipwith-Roper Cottage as seen when it was at 400 West Duval Street. The Skipwith-Roper Cottage once stood near this home at 401 West Duval Street. James Jackson Pharmacy once stood at 825 West Leigh Street. Goshen Street runs along a home at 825 West Leigh Street Thursday, April 8, 2021. This view shows Leigh Street looking east from Brook Road. This is the northern side of Leigh Street looking east from Brook Road Wednesday, April 7, 2021. the Friends Asylum for Colored Orphans once stood at the corner of St. Paul and Charity Streets. The Friends Association For Children is on the site where the Friends Asylum for Colored Orphans once stood. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Sixth Mount Zion is located at 14 West Duval Street. Sixth Mt. Zion Baptist Church is at 14 West Duval Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. The W.W. Browne Home is located at 105 West Jackson Street. The W.W. Browne Home is at 105 Jackson Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Hippodrome is located at 528 North 2nd Street. The Hippodrome at 528 N. 2nd Street photographed on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Giles B. Law Office was located at 513 2nd Street. This is the eastern side of the 500 block of North 2nd Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. The Southern Aid Society was located at 504 2nd Street. This is the western side of the 500 block of North 2nd Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Navy Hill Public School was at North 6th and East Duval Streets. Navy Hill Drive turns into East Duval Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. The First African Baptist Church is shown at the intersection of North 14th and East Broad Street. The First African Baptist Church is located at 14th and East Broad Streets. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. East Broad Street intersects with North 6th Street. The northeast corner of East Broad and North 6th Streets as seen on Thursday, April 8, 2021. The Richmond Planet was at 800 East Broad Street. This is the western side of the Library of Virginia at 8th and East Broad Streets. Photo was taken on Friday, April 9, 2021. An 1876 map of the original Jackson Ward, known as "Little Africa" in the 1600's and 1700's, is on display at the Historic Jackson Ward Museum at 502-504 North Third Street. Photo taken Thursday, August 26, 2004. PHOTOS: Jackson Ward - Then and Now This photo of 508 St. James Street in Jackson Ward was taken about 1978. This home at 508 Saint James Street is in Jackson Ward. Photo was taken on Thursday, April 8, 2021. The Skipwith-Roper Cottage as seen when it was at 400 West Duval Street. The Skipwith-Roper Cottage once stood near this home at 401 West Duval Street. James Jackson Pharmacy once stood at 825 West Leigh Street. Goshen Street runs along a home at 825 West Leigh Street Thursday, April 8, 2021. This view shows Leigh Street looking east from Brook Road. This is the northern side of Leigh Street looking east from Brook Road Wednesday, April 7, 2021. the Friends Asylum for Colored Orphans once stood at the corner of St. Paul and Charity Streets. The Friends Association For Children is on the site where the Friends Asylum for Colored Orphans once stood. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Sixth Mount Zion is located at 14 West Duval Street. Sixth Mt. Zion Baptist Church is at 14 West Duval Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. The W.W. Browne Home is located at 105 West Jackson Street. The W.W. Browne Home is at 105 Jackson Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Hippodrome is located at 528 North 2nd Street. The Hippodrome at 528 N. 2nd Street photographed on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Giles B. Law Office was located at 513 2nd Street. This is the eastern side of the 500 block of North 2nd Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. The Southern Aid Society was located at 504 2nd Street. This is the western side of the 500 block of North 2nd Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. Navy Hill Public School was at North 6th and East Duval Streets. Navy Hill Drive turns into East Duval Street. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. The First African Baptist Church is shown at the intersection of North 14th and East Broad Street. The First African Baptist Church is located at 14th and East Broad Streets. Photo was taken on Wednesday, April 7, 2021. East Broad Street intersects with North 6th Street. The northeast corner of East Broad and North 6th Streets as seen on Thursday, April 8, 2021. The Richmond Planet was at 800 East Broad Street. This is the western side of the Library of Virginia at 8th and East Broad Streets. Photo was taken on Friday, April 9, 2021. An 1876 map of the original Jackson Ward, known as "Little Africa" in the 1600's and 1700's, is on display at the Historic Jackson Ward Museum at 502-504 North Third Street. Photo taken Thursday, August 26, 2004.
The Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA) has provided some updates on its four-year strategic transformation plan called Hijrah27, which aims to innovate and turn takaful into a household name in Malaysia. It continues on from the previous MTA Reform Plan 2022-2023 (ISLAH 23).

In a statement, MTA said that this new plan will guide the industry and the overall Islamic ecosystem as a whole to advance takaful. It also aligns MTAs mission with the goals of the Financial Sector Blueprint 2022-2026  which sets the vision for the nations financial sector development  and the industrys Value-Based Intermediation framework.

MTA also shared that it is currently still finalising Hijrah27, but the plan is expected to help push and maintain the growth momentum of the takaful industry.

There will be a continued emphasis on collaborations, comprehensive awareness, products, and services innovations and expansion of takafuls role in the whole ecosystem to widen protection and meet the unserved and underserved rakyat at their level of need to ensure every Malaysian has a safety net, MTA further noted, adding that its mandate is to make takaful more relevant, accessible, and impactful.

Aside from sharing updates on Hijrah27, MTA also shared some figures on its performance in 2023. Among other things, it highlighted that it paid out a total of RM8.74 billion in 2023 to support Malaysians in their times of need. This is broken down to RM6.79 billion paid through Family Takaful, and the remaining RM1.95 billion via General Takaful.

MTA also noted that the payout total is 24.40% higher than the previous year, indicating the takaful industrys responsiveness to emerging needs and its dedication to promptly assist certificate holders.

Other key details that were also revealed include the fact that the Family Takaful business has added 1.13 million new certificates in 2023, with a corresponding gross contribution of RM9.59 billion. This is slightly lower than the previous high of 1.31 million new certificates and RM10.06 billion gross contribution registered in 2022.

Meanwhile, the General Takaful business saw a 17.44% increase in gross written contributions from RM4.64 billion in 2022 to RM5.45 billion in 2023. To note, this bump is attributed primarily to the robust performance of motor takaful.

Finally, MTA said that it expects the takaful industry to maintain a steady momentum in 2024. The industry is united in its commitment to accessible and affordable takaful protection for the rakyat as part of its efforts to support the countrys economic development, it said.

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AMLO calls Tren Maya derailment at Yucatan station human error

Mexico City, Mexico  Human error has been reported as the cause of the Maya Train derailment at a Yucatan station. President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador described the derailment that happened Monday morning as human error.

There was a human error at the station. A track change was not carried out. We are looking to see if it was intentional or if it was an error on the part of those responsible for managing the tracks, he said during his Tuesday morning press conference.

Lopez Obrador said the Maya Train has security features that worked which is why there were no injuries. He said Tren Maya officials immediately set about repairing that failure, however, the investigations continue.

On Monday morning, a four-car train traveling from Campeche to Cancun derailed at the Tixkokob station in Yucatan.
Colombian women forced into prostitution freed from Playa del Carmen criminal group

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  An investigation into human trafficking has lead police to Playa del Carmen homes from where eight women were rescued. Their freedom came Tuesday after a search of two properties.

State police arrived with warrants for two homes located in the Mision Las Flores subdivision. Inside each were several abducted women. A total of eight Colombian woman were removed from the homes by police who reported they were being forced into prostitution.

The successful operation was in coordination with the Quintana Roo State Attorney General and National Prosecutor of Colombia.

Derived from investigative work by the State Attorney Generals Office, in collaboration with the National Prosecutors Office of Colombia, as well as the OUR Rescue Organization and the National Guard, eight women of Colombian nationality, alleged victims of human trafficking in their modality of third-party prostitution, were rescued during the execution of two search warrants in properties located in the Mision Las Flores subdivision in this municipality, authorities reported Tuesday.

The women were recruited from their country and promised jobs in luxury hotels. In order to hook them, they also offered to pay for the trip and the necessary expenses to settle in, thereby generating a debt that would have to be settled when they began to receive the salary of the supposed job that they would get, Quintana Roo authorities explained in a statement.

Upon arrival in Mexico, they collected the womens passports and identification cards, threatening them with alleged contact with authorities and the police in case they tried to escape.

Eight Colombian women were freed from two homes Tuesday. Photo: FGE March 26, 2024.

The victims were deprived of their liberty and were forced to provide numerous sexual services a day in addition to having photographs taken of them to display on an Internet platform where they were promoted as sex workers.

The Prosecutors Office Specialized in Combating Human Trafficking continues with the investigations to find the people who lead this criminal organization.
Mexican fugitive extradited to U.S. on charges of real estate fraud

Mexico City, Mexico  A Mexican fugitive wanted in Pennsylvania for real estate fraud has been extradited. On Tuesday, the Attorney General of the Republic (FGR) reported on the extradition of Rodolfo G for real estate crimes that date back to 2014.

An investigation by U.S. officials determined that Rodolfo G, along with others, defrauded several potential investors with claims of a fake real estate company for the management of their vacation rental properties.

According to the FGR, Rodolfo G, along with unnamed accomplices, caused an estimated $1.6 million USD in damages to the victims. He had been on the run as a fugitive since the investigation findings.

In their statement, the FGR said Rodolfo G was required by the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, since an investigation carried out by U.S. law enforcement revealed that the extradited person, in 2014, together with other individuals, defrauded several people making them believe that he had a real estate company and would support them in the supposed rental of their vacation properties in Mexico.

This person and his accomplices caused $1.6 million dollars in property damage to the victims. The fugitive was located and detained in Leon, Guanajuato, in October 2023.

Authorities did not say where the vacation properties were located or how many people were involved.
One killed another injured in Cozumel drive by shooting

Cozumel, Q.R.  One youth was shot dead and another taken to hospital after at least two subjects opened fired. Area residents called emergency services after the central Tuesday night shooting on 8th Street and 30th Avenue.

The men were reportedly walking on a sidewalk when two men aboard a motorcycle drove by taking aim at the pedestrians. Police located one of the shooting victims laying dead on a sidewalk. The second male was injured by the gunfire and taken to hospital.

Agents from the Secretariat of Citizen Security cordoned off the area in wait for State Attorney General personnel.

A crowd gathered Tuesday night after one of two youths was shot dead in their neighborhood. Photo: March 26, 2024.

Police have not identified the shooting victims.
Over 500 officers deployed in Isla Mujeres tourists areas

Isla Mujeres, Q.R.  More than 500 officers have been deployed in the tourist areas of Isla Mujeres in an effort to strengthen holiday security. Tours are being carried out in areas such as Playa Centro and Playa Norte where hundreds of visitors continue to gather on a daily basis.

Isla Mujeres City Hall has reported a total of 535 security elements deployed in a holiday operation to strengthen surveillance in the places with the highest influx of visitors.

The goal is to reinforce the security of locals and the thousands of national and international tourists who will visit the destination during the vacation period that began on March 23 and will conclude on April 7.

Additional officers police busy Isla Mujeres roadways. Photo: H. Ayuntamiento de Isla Mujeres March 26, 2024.

The deployment consists of elements from the General Directorates of Citizen Security and Traffic. Other officials from Public Services, Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat) and Civil Protection are also monitoring beach areas, since Civil Protection is responsible for the deployment of lifeguards.

State marines provide extra beach help to Isla Mujeres lifeguards. Photo: H. Ayuntamiento de Isla Mujeres March 26, 2024.

Last weekend, which began the Easter holiday period, the municipality of Isla Mujeres reported a large influx of visitors of different nationalities who enjoyed its beautiful beaches and tourist attractions.

According to figures provided by the General Directorate of Economic Development and Tourism, a general hotel occupancy of 86.5 percent was recorded over the weekend, which reflects that Isla Mujeres continues to be the sun and beach destination in the Mexican Caribbean chosen by the majority of tourists, City Hall reported.

For the upcoming long weekend, Isla Mujeres is anticipating an occupancy rate in excess of 90 percent.

Photo: H. Ayuntamiento de Isla Mujeres March 26, 2024.

On March 23, the official start of the holiday season, Governor Mara Lezama announced a total of 2,395 security elements had been distributed around the state. Approximately 1.5 million tourists are scheduled to vacation around Quintana Roo for the holidays.
Phoenix judge rules in favor of Mexico against Arizona gun stores

Mexico City, Mexico  The Federal Court for the District of Arizona handed down a favorable ruling for Mexico in its lawsuit against five gun stores located in the state.

In October 2022, Mexico initiated the litigation arguing that the defendants, according to traceability data, facilitate the trafficking of high-powered weapons to Mexico.

In Mondays ruling, Judge Rosemary Marquez established that the stores had various signals to know that the firearms they sold would end up in Mexico and that these would be used for illicit purposes.

For this reason, the Court recognized that Mexico has the right to sue on its own behalf and on behalf of its population.

Judge Rosemary Marquez noted that Mexico successfully argued that the stores do not enjoy immunity for their negligent business practices.

This decision is added to the favorable ruling of January 2024, issued within the framework of the first lawsuit presented by our country. In that ruling, a Court of Appeals ruled that weapons manufacturing companies do not enjoy immunity either and that they must respond for their conduct before a court.

Following Mondays decision, the District Court can continue studying Mexicos claim. In the following stages, evidence will be presented to demonstrate the negligent conduct of the defendants, seeking to obtain compensation for the damage that will be determined by the judge.

Although the defendants have the right to file an appeal, Mondays decision is of great relevance for our country. Mexico is convinced that it is supported by legal and moral reason in its legal actions against illicit arms trafficking, and will continue to promptly defend its interests and those of its citizens through all means at its disposal.

This is the second lawsuit filed against actors in the arms trade chain.

In January of this year, the Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE) reported that the government of Mexico had won its appeal in a U.S. court against gun manufacturers and distributors whose business practices facilitate the trafficking of their products into Mexico.
ROCKY MOUNT  The cutting edge in forensic imaging devices was on display for the grand opening of the ForenScope Technology Center in Rocky Mount. The location is expected to become an advanced law enforcement training center dedicated to the technology.

The ForenScope Technology Center is owned and operated by Evident, which has provided crime scene products to law enforcement and government agencies for more than 30 years. Its headquarters is in Union Hall.

A wide range of advanced imaging devices are available within the center. According to Evident President Mike Grimm Jr., the devices are capable of locating and documenting a wide variety of evidence including latent fingerprints, body fluids, blood, gunshot residue, DNA and other types of forensic evidence.

Its a new era in forensic science, Grimm said.

The goal of the center will be to provide a place for law enforcement to learn how to use the technology as well as to test products before purchasing. Grimm said that can be beneficial when some of the products can cost as much as $100,000.

Lt. Jason Howe with the Roxboro Police Department in North Carolina was in attendance for Tuesdays grand opening. He said the ForenScope devices have been invaluable for his department in solving cases. He learned about the devices after meeting Grimm at a conference.

In a case involving the theft of several electronic devices from a Wal-Mart in Roxboro, Howe said the cellophane wrap of one of the devices was left at the scene. When the cellophane was placed under a ForenScope device, the image of a fingerprint became clear.

Howe said device allowed for an image clear enough to be uploaded to a database. The criminal was apprehended soon after, he said.

The arrest helped to put a stop to a crime ring that had stolen more than $900,000 in electronics in five states, Howe said.

While other, more traditional techniques could have been used to collect the fingerprint, Howe said the new imaging technology is much faster. It also avoids the additional steps of using powders and other chemicals to collect the image of the fingerprint, he said.

This just helps expedite the process, Howe said.
As work on the Mountain Valley Pipeline continues, so does litigation aimed at slowing it down.

Six landowners in Franklin, Montgomery and Roanoke counties asked the U.S. Supreme Court Tuesday to hear their challenge of eminent domain laws used to take their private property for the controversial project.

First filed four years ago, the lawsuit contends that Congress improperly delegated its power to seize private property to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which oversees construction of interstate natural gas pipelines.

After finding there was a public need for the pipeline, FERC then passed its eminent domain authority on to Mountain Valley.

In what the landowners say was a violation of the separation of powers doctrine, Congress gave FERC massive legislative power to decide when and where private property will be seized, a petition filed with the Supreme Court states.

Worse yet, Congress put no restrictions on that delegation, the document states. Instead, it gave the agency a blank check.

The landowners face long odds. The Supreme Court agrees to hear oral arguments in only about 80 cases of the 7,000 to 8,000 appeals filed each year.

But the high court has already ruled in favor of the landowners once, sending a dismissal by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia back for additional review last April. Their attorney, Mia Yugo of Roanoke, expressed hopes for another victory.

It could be months before there is a decision  making it uncertain what impact a ruling favorable to the landowners would have on Mountain Valley, which says it plans to complete construction by the end of June.

However, target dates have been pushed back for years. And even if a win comes too late to help the plaintiffs  Cletus and Beverly Bohon of Montgomery County, Wendell and Mary Flora of Franklin County and Robert and Aimee Hamm of Roanoke County  Yugo said it would limit FERCs eminent domain powers for future projects.

Mountain Valley invoked the controversial practice  which traditionally has been used by the government to seize property for public projects  to take property from about 300 landowners in Southwest Virginia for its pipeline, a private venture.

In court papers, attorneys for the company said the landowners arguments were simply a rehashing of the same flawed theories that have been rejected in the past.

A law passed last year by Congress fast-tracked completion of the pipeline and forbade the kind of legal action  challenges to government permits issued to the Mountain Valley  that has delayed the project for six years now.

The current lawsuit, however, makes constitutional arguments that Yugo says should be heard. Attorneys for Mountain Valley and FERC cited the recent law, a provision in the Fiscal Responsibility Act that raised the governments debt ceiling, in asking that the landowners case be dismissed.

In a decision last month  which is now being appealed to the Supreme Court  the D.C. appeals court did not rely on the law in reaffirming its earlier decision to throw out the lawsuit. Instead, it ruled that a U.S. District Court judge lacked jurisdiction to hear the case on other grounds.

Nonetheless, Yugos petition asks the Supreme Court to declare the law unconstitutional  while adding that is not necessarily required to reach a decision on the merits of her case.

Landowners should get their day in court, she said, even if its four years overdue.
State regulators have cited the Mountain Valley Pipeline with its latest round of violating rules meant to limit the environmental impact of burrowing a large pipe through the waters and mountains of Southwest Virginia.

In a letter to company officials dated Monday, the Department of Environmental Quality demanded a fine of $34,000.

Among the violations: Dirt and rocks being thrown into a stream from blasting, a wetland that was damaged by improper installation of a construction bridge, and failures to maintain earthen mounds, sandbags, and other devices designed to curb muddy runoff from the pipeline right-of-way.

The enforcement action  the second of its type taken since construction of the long-delayed natural gas pipeline resumed last summer  comes amid mounting criticism from pipeline opponents of lackluster scrutiny.

The top officials at DEQ should be ashamed, David Sligh, conservation director of Wild Virginia, said after reviewing documents released by the agency to The Roanoke Times Tuesday.

This letter is nothing more than a show; a pretense which Director [Michael] Rolband and his leadership team know will have no effect on MVPs behavior, Sligh wrote in an email.

Critics complain that DEQ inspectors are slow to respond to their reports of violations of erosion and sedimentation control regulations. And when fines are imposed months later, they say, the amounts are too small to have an impact on the $7.6 billion operation.

Unlike in the past, Mountain Valley did not dispute the latest findings.

The infractions primarily related to exceeding agreed upon installation and/or repair timelines, spokeswoman Natalie Cox wrote in an email. These noted items did not result in any permanent impact and were quickly resolved, and full payment will be made without dispute.

Lee Crowell, director of DEQs enforcement division, listed in a letter to Mountain Valley a total of 29 fines  ranging from $500 to $6,500  for infractions from mid-September through late November. Some of the fines appear to be for multiple violations, according to Sligh, who once worked as an environmental engineer for DEQ.

Erosion control has been an issue from the start for a joint venture of five energy companies building the 303-mile pipeline.

In 2019, Mountain Valley agreed to pay $2.15 million to settle a lawsuit filed by DEQ that alleged more than 300 violations of erosion and sediment control regulations during the first two years of construction.

A consent agreement entered in that case called for increased civil penalties for future violations.

As a regulatory agency, DEQ is required to, and does, uphold and enforce all applicable regulations, spokeswoman Irina Calos said in early March, after citizens and representatives of environmental organizations complained to the State Water Control Board about what they said was a lack of enforcement.

Teams from DEQ and a third-party monitoring firm conduct about 40 inspections each week, often identifying infractions that must be corrected within 24 or 72 hours, depending on their severity, Calos said.

On a quarterly basis, the environmental agency reviews the cases to determine whether civil penalties are called for under the consent decree, either for failing to meet the deadlines or for other violations.

After a review in 2020, DEQ sought an $86,000 fine for about 30 violations. Mountain Valley balked at some of the findings. Following negotiations allowed by the consent decree, the company agreed to pay $58,000.

For the period between last June 11 and Sept. 10, DEQ found two cases of noncompliance and imposed a $2,500 fine, which Mountain Valley agreed to pay. The latest quarterly review, which covers the time between Sept. 11 and Dec. 10, was only recently completed.

That means recent fines have only been imposed for periods of scant rainfall along the pipelines route through Virginia.

Heavy precipitation since then has caused far worse problems, such as large amounts of sedimentation being washed into Sinking Creek in Giles County and the Bottom Creek watershed on Bent Mountain, pipeline opponents say.

Since work on the pipeline began in February 2018, construction has been delayed repeatedly by legal challenges to government-issued permits filed by environmental groups.

Mountain Valley escaped the legal logjam last year, when Congress passed a law that fast-tracked its completion and largely limited new lawsuits.

Congress declared the pipeline to be in the national interest. Mountain Valley says the natural gas to be shipped across two states  from northern West Virginia, into Virginia though the New River and Roanoke valleys, to connect with an existing pipeline near the North Carolina line  will bolster the countrys energy supply and security. The most recent projection calls for the pipeline to be in service by the end of June.

Opponents counter that the project will solidify long-term reliance on polluting fossil fuels, in addition to causing immediate environmental problems during construction.

In February, about 30 environmental and community organizations asked DEQ to issue a stop-work order. Such action would temporarily halt construction until Mountain Valley showed it could comply with state regulations.

Sligh, who was involved in writing a 17-page letter that detailed the groups concerns, said Tuesday that DEQ has yet to respond.

Mountain Valley has committed these same kinds of violations continually for six years now, he said, and DEQ stands by and lets this travesty continue.
Virginia officials scrambled on Tuesday to help neighboring Maryland with maritime commerce disrupted by the early morning collapse of a bridge in Baltimore in the main shipping channel to the city's busy port.

Aubrey Layne, chairman of the board at the Port of Virginia, said the port in Hampton Roads would not be directly affected by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge over the Patapsco River after it was struck by a freight ship early on Tuesday.

But Layne, a former state transportation and finance secretary, said the Virginia port would assist the Port of Baltimore and shipping companies to divert cargo.

"The bottom line is we'll work with them to help them through this," he said. "We have the capacity."

The cargo ship Dali, carrying a Singapore flag, had arrived in Baltimore from Norfolk. The Port of Virginia posted on X that the Dali called at Virginia International Gateway terminal and departed March 22 for Baltimore as its next port of call. It said the ship's call at the terminal and its departure from Norfolk were without incident.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin posted on X Tuesday morning that he had spoken with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and offered Virginia's assistance following the bridge collapse in Baltimore.

Layne said the Virginia port would work with two major railroad companies, Norfolk Southern and CSX Corp., to divert shipped goods that cannot reach the Port of Baltimore, such as imported automobiles.

"To an extent, that gives us options to get cargo up to the Northeast," he said.

CSX said in a statement that customers should anticipate "potential shipment delays" following the bridge collapse in Baltimore.

"While freight traffic has not been entirely halted in the region, certain commodities have been affected by the incident. CSX is actively communicating with customers to provide updates on their shipment statuses as the situation evolves."

CSX said it currently has the capacity to dispatch additional trains to CSX-served coal terminals in Baltimore.

Given that the bridge collapse affects vessel access to the Baltimore port, "all international intermodal shipments destined for Baltimore have been temporarily suspended" and "In-gated traffic originating from other locations and destined for Baltimore is on hold until further notice."

CSX said it is "working with international customers to identify alternative solutions to support cargo movement to and from Baltimore." It noted that "domestic intermodal traffic on CSX destined for local Baltimore remains unaffected."

CSX added that it is committed to keeping customers informed and will provide updates as information becomes available.

Representatives for the Port of Virginia sought to allay concerns that an overflow of ships will now put pressure on the Hampton Roads region.

Joe Harris, a spokesperson for the Port of Virginia, said it is already working with carriers whose plans have been scrambled by the bridge collapse. On Tuesday afternoon, however, he said it was "way too soon" to tell if the tragedy would lead to a backup in Virginia.

"It's very hard to say. We will see more cargo, but how much? It's way too soon to tell," said Harris. He said new demand is unlikely to surge beyond what the port can handle.

Harris said that during Hurricane Sandy, the Port of Virginia saw a similar overflow situation when the storm shuttered the Port of New Jersey. The COVID-19 pandemic also caused backups in Virginia.

"We have a lot of experience in this area. We're confident in our terminals, in our team. And our capability to help out Baltimore however we can," Harris said.

The Port of Virginia recently widened its channel to handle two-way traffic of what are called Ultra Large Container Vessels  ships that can handle twice as much cargo as the Dali. The port can now handle two of these vessels at the same time, one inbound and one outbound.

The Baltimore incident highlights an advantage that the Port of Virginia holds in Hampton Roads, where no overhead bridges obstruct shipping in the deep water harbor that is home to the U.S. Navy and major shipyards. Vehicle traffic crosses the harbor through the Hampton Roads Tunnel and the Monitor-Merrimac tunnel.

"When you have a port where you have an overhead obstruction, you run those risks," Layne said. "In Virginia, you can hit a tunnel, but you don't close a shipping lane."

In February 1977, a 612-foot tanker, the Marine Floridian, lost control of its rudder and rammed the Benjamin Harrison Bridge, which crosses over the James River between Charles City County and Prince George County near Hopewell.

Two drivers whose trucks were on the bridge got out and to safety before the collision. The bridge, completed in 1966, was closed for repairs for 20 months.

Maryland's Key Bridge is part of Interstate 695, a high-speed beltway around Baltimore. The bridge lies between Dundalk and Glen Burnie.

The Baltimore Sun reported that an estimated seven vehicles fell into the river as the bridge collapsed. The collapse does not directly affect traffic to and from Virginia on Interstate 95.

Richmond Times-Dispatch meteorologist Sean Sublette said data from early Tuesday show winds were calm, with no significant waves. The water temperature was 48 degrees at the time of the crash.

So at first glance, it does not look like weather, water or waves were in a factor, but a complete investigation still needs to take place, he said.

At Virginia's state Capitol on Tuesday morning, Democratic leaders held a news conference about the state budget. Del. Luke Torian, D-Prince William, chair of the House Appropriations Committee and a minister, started the gathering by calling for a moment of silence for those affected in Maryland.

Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., was among the Virginia office holders who expressed concerns on social media.

Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-11th, who represents parts of Fairfax and Prince William counties, also expressed solidarity with Virginia's neighbors to the north.
A New York man, who drove hours to attempt to have sex with a 14-year-old Lynchburg girl with whom he had been chatting online, pleaded guilty to a charge this week.

Derrick Loi, 27, of Lakeville, New York, pleaded guilty Monday to one count of coercion and enticement, according to a U.S. Attorneys office news release.

At sentencing, Loi faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum term of life in prison, as well as a potential fine of up to $250,000, according to the release.

Protecting minors from online predators is a cornerstone priority for the Department of Justice, Christopher Kavanaugh, U.S. attorney for the Western District of Virginia, in the release. I am grateful to the FBI and the Lynchburg Police Department for their swift actions in this case and preventing a more dire situation.

This investigation demonstrates the FBIs commitment to protecting the American people, especially when our children involved, Special Agent in Charge Stanley Meador of the FBIs Richmond Division said in the release. I want to thank the case team and our law enforcement partners for their quick and decisive actions.

According to court documents, in early February 2023, Loi met the 14-year-old girl from Lynchburg on Twitter (now known as X), and, in the early morning hours of Feb. 14, 2023, began chatting with her on the social media site Discord. Loi told the young girl not only was he was interested in buying sexually explicit images and videos of her, but also wanted to meet her in person to have sex, according to the release.

Loi agreed to pay the victim $300 to have sex and to provide sexually explicit images, according to the release.

Loi and the victim agreed that Loi would become the victims sugar daddy and that he would get unlimited access to sexually-explicit content of the victim for a weekly fee of $50, which would increase to $100 after the first month. On Feb. 15, 2023, Loi sent the victim a payment in line with that agreement, according to the release.

On Feb. 22, 2023, Loi and the victim began discussing plans for Loi to travel to meet the victim, including a discussion on specific sex acts and how he would film them, according to the release.

After reserving a hotel room in Lynchburg, Loi chatted periodically with the young girl throughout his 8-hour drive from New York.

As Loi arrived at the pre-arranged location, an officer from the Lynchburg Police Department  which had been tipped about the situation  drove up and began questioning Loi. Initially, Loi provided a false name and lied to law enforcement about why he was in Lynchburg, according to the release.

A subsequent search of Lois vehicle revealed sex toys, a box of the morning-after pill Plan B, and the bottle of pink vodka from an earlier photo that Loi had sent to the victim, according to the release.

The trunk of the car contained a large yellow plastic storage bag and was lined with a vinyl or rubber shower liner, on top of which sat a flattened cardboard box.

The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created the initiative, a nationwide program designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, go to projectsafechildhood.gov/.
The shockwaves are still reverberating since Leo Varadkars bombshell announcement last week that he was stepping down as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael.

The dust had barely settled on the unexpected news when his successor was announced in the shape of Simon Harris, who becomes the partys new leader and will shortly be appointed the countrys Taoiseach.

Since being elected in 2011 at the age of 24, the Wicklow TDs rise through the ranks has been as swift as his predecessor. Even in the early stages of his political career, Harris was being tipped as a future Fine Gael leader.

However, his ascent to party leader and incoming Taoiseach could not have been anticipated by anyone, even Harris himself, who has been shown to be a very shrewd operator.

There are plenty of big ticket issues that he now has to address - many that the current Government is struggling to grapple with such as housing, health and immigration.

For many rank and file Fine Gael members too, Harris also has the challenge of returning the party to its traditional values. Michael Ring, his party colleague, a former minister and always a strong voice for Rural Ireland, sent out a clear message to his new leader.

Ring believes that Fine Gael has been "too left for too long" and warned Harris that he would pay a big price at the next election unless he returns the party to its traditional values. In doing so, the Mayo TD wants a big move away from what he calls left wing policies, most notably on social issues.

In his appeal to Harris to return to these traditional values, Ring highlighted law and order, public services, housing and the need to support small businesses and farmers among some of the key priorities. Outside of Fine Gael, these are also issues that resonate strongly right across rural Ireland.

Its very clear that the incoming Taoiseach must also reach out to these communities who have felt that the Government has become increasingly out of touch with peoples day to day concerns  concerns which have taken a backseat because of a preoccupation with issues they feel are of no relevance to them.

So, the gauntlet has clearly been laid down now for Simon Harris to talk to not just his partys grassroots but rural communities right across the country.
Virginias plan for a recreational cannabis market includes a way to help micro businesses, formerly known as the social equity license, get involved with what is anticipated to be a multimillion dollar business  if the plan survives the governors desk.

The Virginia Cannabis Equity Loan Fund will provide grants, low-interest and zero-interest loans to qualified micro business licensees, according to legislation passed by the General Assembly.

Del. Paul Krizek, D-Fairfax, and Sen. Aaron Rouse, D-Virginia Beach, reached a compromise between their two measures to create a state cannabis market.

An applicant must meet certain criteria to qualify, including having at least 66% ownership and direct control of the business.

The applicant must either have been convicted or adjudicated of a prior misdemeanor violation for marijuana to qualify.

The applicant could also qualify if they lived at least three of the past five years, or attended at least five years of public school, in a historically economically disadvantaged community.

Another qualification would be if the applicant received a federal Pell Grant or attended for at least two years a college or university where an average of at least 30% of the students are eligible for a federal Pell Grant.

Any veteran of the U.S. armed forces would qualify if they met the 66% ownership and direct control qualification.

The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority board of directors will regulate the application process. The board will also determine what percentage of license fees can be waived and promote participation in the loan program despite the ability to pay such fees, according to the bill.

Either the director of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, or a majority of the members of the Cannabis Equity Reinvestment Board, will sign off on the disbursement of funds.

The General Assembly approved $1.8 million each year, which will transfer to the Cannabis Equity Business Loan Fund in July, if the governor does not appoint a director of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, according to the budget. The governor renamed it the Office of Diversity, Opportunity, and Inclusion in 2022.

The program will be funded by 100% of the licensing fees collected by the authority in the first year, Krizek said in a Senate committee meeting for Rehabilitation and Social Services. After that time, the program will be supported by 60% of the tax revenue from retail sales of marijuana.

The equity fund will foster business ownership and economic growth within communities that have been affected by the prohibition of cannabis.

Executive Director of Marijuana Justice Chelsea Higgs Wise and supporters, photo courtesy of VCU CNS

The marijuana market bills are the most promising that weve had since 2021, said Chelsea Higgs Wise, executive director of Marijuana Justice. It includes the equity portions and includes repair for communities and includes certain funds and this is what weve been promising Virginia.

The loan fund was created by the 2021 General Assembly and given $3 million to help develop an adult-use retail market, the CCA stated in an email. The 2023 General Assembly returned the $3 million back to the general fund, since the recreational cannabis market was not reenacted.

We have an equity fund already established in statute, said Sen. Barbara Favola, D-Arlington, at the committee of Rehabilitation and Social Services. But it needs to be funded to make sure that our micro business really do have access to capital so they can start their cultivation and be able to get to the market.

The CCA will collaborate with a community development financial institution that provides credit and financial services for disadvantaged communities to help manage the fund.

Were really hoping that it will be people of color, folks from certain communities that will be able to take advantage of entering the business and the setups that weve put into place, Higgs Wise said.

Cannabis tax will be 8% and the revenue is estimated to be $6.41 million in 2025 and increase to $77.1 million by 2030, according to the bills final fiscal impact statement.

The state will add a 1.115% tax, and a locality can add an extra tax up to 2.5%.

The CCA stated that it could not respond to questions about potential licensing costs, because no adult-use cannabis market exists. Applications would start in September if the bill is signed.

The current application fee for a medical cannabis pharmaceutical processor permit is $18,000. The initial permit fee is $165,000 and the annual renewal fee is $132,000, according to the CCA.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin has stated many times that hes not interested in signing the adult-use market legislation. He has issued 80 vetoes as of March 26, although some are duplicate bills. When asked about the cannabis bill on March 14, Youngkin told a Virginia Mercury reporter that he would read it and that it is a long bill.

Youngkin has until April 8 to take action on all bills that cleared the General Assembly. The legislature will reconvene on April 17 to review his changes, but Democrats do not have the super majority needed to overturn a veto.

By Michael Chun

Capital News Service

Capital News Service is a program of Virginia Commonwealth Universitys Robertson School of Media and Culture. Students in the program provide state government coverage for a variety of media outlets in Virginia.
Cargo ship had engine maintenance in port before it collided with Baltimore bridge, officials say

The U.S. Coast Guard says the cargo ship that crashed into and collapsed a bridge in Baltimore underwent routine engine maintenance in port beforehand
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Jim Newton is a veteran journalist, best-selling author and teacher. He worked at the Los Angeles Times for 25 years as a reporter, editor, bureau chief and columnist, covering government and politics. He teaches at UCLA and founded Blueprint magazine.
NEW YORK  Krispy Kreme and McDonald's are getting together over breakfast.

The doughnut chain and the fast-food giant unveiled plans Tuesday to offer Krispy Kreme products at McDonald's locations across the United States. A phased rollout is expected to start later this year, the companies said, with availability at participating restaurants nationwide expected by the end of 2026.

McDonald's didn't specify how many of its 13,500 U.S. locations  95% of which are franchised  would be participating in the deal. But in a prepared statement, Krispy Kreme President and CEO Josh Charlesworth said the partnership would give customers "unprecedented daily access" to the Charlotte, North Carolina-based company's glazed, filled and frosted treats.

Krispy Kreme McDonald's Krispy Kreme Doughnuts stock jumped March 26 after it announced a deal in which McDonalds restaurants will sell its doughnuts across the country.

"By making Kreme Krispy accessible to fans nationwide through this partnership, we expect to more than double our points of access by the end of 2026," Charlesworth said.

Tariq Hassan, chief marketing and customer experience officer for McDonald's USA, said the deal marked a chance to "unlock new business opportunities" in the Chicago-based chain's breakfast category and the sweet items it sells throughout the day.

McDonald's plans to make three Krispy Kreme doughnut varieties  original glazed, chocolate iced with sprinkles and a filled chocolate iced  available individually and in boxes of six until daily supplies last.

The partnership is hardly the first bringing major restaurant chains and popular food brands together. Taco Bell, for example, has long boasted Doritos-flavored tacos while Wendy's brought a Cinnabon "pull-apart" treat to its menu last month.

Bears raid a Krispy Kreme doughnut van making deliveries on an Alaska military base Two bears on an Alaska military base raided a Krispy Kreme doughnut van that was stopped outside a convenience store during its delivery route.

Krispy Kreme has teamed up with other businesses before. Krispy Kreme doughnuts are sold at Walmart, Kroger and other grocery chains along with the chain's own stores. In total, the company says it operates in 35 countries with more than 14,000 "fresh points of access" through its own shops, retail partnerships and e-commerce business.

Following the announcement of the McDonald's deal, shares of Krispy Kreme soared nearly 30% by late morning Tuesday. McDonald's stock was up about 0.08%.

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In an email to The Associated Press, a Krispy Kreme spokesperson said the company would not be disclosing any financial details about the deal, which is exclusive to the U.S. through 2026. McDonald's did not immediately respond to a request for further comment.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.  April's total solar eclipse promises to be a scientific bonanza, thanks to new spacecraft and telescopes  and cosmic chance.

The moon will be extra close to Earth, providing a long and intense period of darkness, and the sun should be more active with the potential for dramatic bursts of plasma. Then there's totality's densely populated corridor stretching from Mexico to the U.S. to Canada.

Hundreds if not thousands of the tens of millions of spectators will double as "citizen scientists," helping NASA and other research groups better understand our planet and star.

082117EclipseSantee50ch.jpg The solar eclipse as seen in Santee in August 2017.

They'll photograph the sun's outer crownlike atmosphere, or corona, as the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blotting out sunlight for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds on April 8. They'll observe the quieting of birds and other animals as midday darkness falls. They'll also measure dropping temperatures, monitor clouds and use ham radios to gauge communication disruptions.

At the same time, rockets will blast off with science instruments into the electrically charged portion of the atmosphere near the edge of space known as the ionosphere. The small rockets will soar from Wallops Island, Virginia  some 400 miles outside totality but with 81% of the sun obscured in a partial eclipse. Similar launches were conducted from New Mexico during last October's "ring of fire" solar eclipse that swept across the western U.S. and Central and South America.

"Time for the biggie! It is pretty exciting!!!" Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Aroh Barjatya, the rockets' mission director, said in an email.

NASA's high-altitude jets also will take to the air again, chasing the moon's shadow with improved telescopes to study the sun's corona and surrounding dust.

"Dust sounds boring," acknowledged NASA's eclipse program manager Kelly Korreck. "But at the same time, dust is actually really interesting. Those are the leftover remnants from when the solar system was forming."

How to watch a solar eclipse safely with a pinhole camera Watch a solar eclipse without damaging your eyes by building a pinhole camera  using a shoebox, white paper, foil, and tape. Meteorologist Se

More than 600 weather balloons will be launched by college students along the track, providing livestreams while studying atmospheric changes. Cloudy skies shouldn't matter.

"Lucky for us, the balloons flying to 80,000 feet and above don't care if it's cloudy on the ground," said Angela Des Jardins, an astrophysicist at Montana State University who's coordinating the nationwide project.

And if the Federal Aviation Administration approves, a 21-foot (6.5-meter) kite will lift a science instrument three miles (5 kilometers) above Texas in an experiment by the University of Hawaii's Shadia Habbal. She, too, wants to get above any clouds that might hamper her observations of the sun.

Normally hidden by the sun's glare, the corona is on full display during a total solar eclipse, making it a prime research target. The spiky tendrils emanating thousands of miles (kilometers) into space are mystifyingly hotter than the sun's surface  in the millions of degrees, versus thousands.

"In terms of the value of total eclipses, science still cannot explain how the corona is heated to such extreme temperatures," said retired NASA astrophysicist Fred Espenak, better known as Mr. Eclipse for all his charts and books on the subject.

2024 total solar eclipse: Who's in totality and where sun is most likely Within a month, the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse streak across the United States on April 8, 2024. 31 million Americans live in the path of totali

The U.S. won't see another total solar eclipse on this scale until 2045, so NASA and everyone else is pulling out all the stops.

April's eclipse will begin in the Pacific and make landfall at Mazatlan, Mexico, heading up through Texas and 14 other U.S. states before crossing into Canada and exiting into the Atlantic at Newfoundland. Those outside the 115-mile-wide (185-kilometer-wide) path, will get a partial eclipse.

Scientists got a taste of what's to come during the 2017 total solar eclipse that stretched from Oregon to South Carolina. This time, the moon is closer to Earth, resulting in more minutes of darkness and a wider path.

"Any time we can observe for longer, that gives scientists more data," Korreck said.

Another scientific bonus this time: The sun will be just a year away from its maximum solar activity, as opposed to 2017 when it was near its minimum. That means lots more action at the sun, possibly even a coronal mass ejection during the eclipse, with massive amounts of plasma and magnetic field blasted into space.

Plus there are two new spacecraft out there studying the sun: NASA's Parker Solar Probe and the European Space Agency and NASA's Solar Orbiter. They'll join other spacecraft on eclipse duty, including the International Space Station and its astronauts.

Closer to home, April's eclipse, unlike previous ones, will pass over three U.S. radar sites typically used for monitoring space weather. The stations will tune in to what's happening in the upper atmosphere as the skies dim.
Almost 40 years after a spate of sexual assault cases, recently completed DNA testing has led to the arrests of two men now facing dozens of charges.

Jeffrey Briney, 59, was indicted by a DeKalb County grand jury on multiple counts of rape, kidnapping and aggravated assault. His brother David Briney, 62, was indicted on similar charges and is also linked to decades old sexual assault cases in Cobb and Fulton counties.

New DNA testing completed in 2023 linked these defendants to seven sexual cold case assaults dating back nearly 40 years, DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston said Wednesday.

The defendants were arrested Feb. 27 and have been denied bond.

Boston said the brothers were linked to a March 28, 1986 sexual assault case in what is now Brookhaven. Investigators say four men pushed their way into an apartment on Briarwood Road where five college students were held at gunpoint and two women were raped.

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Sexual assault kits collected following the incident led to the arrests of Jeffrey Briney and David Briney, Boston said.

Months after the Brookhaven incident, two men forced their way into an apartment on Buford Highway where two women were raped and tied up. DNA testing linked Jeffrey Briney to that case, and linked David Briney to cases in Cobb and Fulton, Boston said.

These matches are a result of an ongoing effort to process previously untested sexual assault evidence, said Boston, noting there is more work to be done.

In 2016, the Georgia Legislature passed a law requiring all Georgia law enforcement agencies to send stored rape kits to the GBI headquarters for testing. There are more than 7,000 kits dating back to before 1999, which the GBI is working through.

Through a federal grant secured by the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council the GBI was able to send about 2,500 untested kits, 74 of which were from DeKalb cases, to private labs for processing in 2023.

Our team has identified nearly a dozen additional cases that fit the same fact patterns and we know there were others involved in some of these crimes who have not yet been identified, Boston said. While we still have a way to go in the criminal justice process, we hope this brings them some comfort and a measure of closure.

Anyone with information on past cases can call the DeKalb County Cold Case Hotline at 404-371-2444.
As the 2024 elections draw near, a diverse array of candidates have emerged to vie for seats in the South Carolina State House.

The candidate filing period ends April 1. All 124 seats in the House are up for election.

Primary elections for Democratic and Republican nominations are scheduled for June 11, with any necessary runoffs scheduled for June 25.

Heres whos running so far from the Pee Dee:

In District 50, state Rep. Will Wheeler, D-Lee, is seeking another term.

State Rep. Richie Yow, R-Chesterfield, is seeking reelection in District 53.

In District 54, Jason Luck, a Democrat, and Sterling McDiarmid, Republican, are looking to replace state Rep. Pat Henegan, D-Marlboro, who has not filed for reelection yet.

In District 55, Jackie Hayes, D-Dillion, is running for another term.

State Rep. Tim McGinnis, R-Horry, is seeking reelection in District 56.

In District 57, state Rep. Lucas Atkinson, D-Marion, has filed to run for another term.

In District 58, state Rep. Jeff Johnson, R-Horry, who serves as chairman of the House Legislative Oversight Committee, is seeking reelection.

State Rep. Phillip Lowe, R-Florence, of District 60 is looking to secure another term.

Incumbent state Rep. Carla Schuessler, R-Horry, is facing a challenge by Patrick Herrmann, a Republican, in District 61.

In District 62, state Rep. Robert Williams, D-Darlington, is seeking another term.

In District 63, the chairman of House Ethics Committee, Jay Jordan, R-Florence, has filed for reelection.

In District 64, Arthur Moyed, a Democrat, is running to replace state Rep. Fawn Pedalino, R-Clarendon, who has filed for reelection.

State Rep. Cody Mitchell, R-Darlington, is seeking another term, representing District 65.

In District 67, House Speaker Murrell Smith, R-Sumter, is running for another term.

In District 68, state Rep. Heather Crawford, R-Horry, is seeking reelection.

State Rep. Roger Kirby, D-Florence, is seeking reelection for District 101.

In District 103, state Rep. Carl Anderson, D-Georgetown, is seeking reelection.

In District 104, state Rep. William Bailey, R-Horry, is looking to serve another term.

In District 105, state Rep. Kevin Hardee, R-Horry, is seeking reelection.

In District 106, Republican Brian Sweeney is looking to challenge state Rep. Val Guest, R-Horry.

State Rep. Case Brittain, R-Horry, is seeking reelection in District 107.

State Rep. Lee Hewitt, R-Georgetown, from District 108 has filed for reelection.

Democrat Tiffany Span-Wilder is seeking a seat in District 109.
The DDR Advantage: Real-Time Data Defense

Pierluigi Paganini March 27, 2024 March 27, 2024

This is the advantage of Data Detection and Response (DDR) for organizations aiming to build a real-time data defense.

In cybersecurity, and in life, by the time you find out that something went wrong it is often too late. The advantage of Data Detection and Response (DDR) is that you no longer have to wait until the milk is spilled. With DDR, your organization can have real-time data defense.

Heres how it works.

What is Data Detection and Response (DDR)? And why do we need it?

Before you think, Oh no, not another DR acronym, and keep scrolling  wait. Data Detection and Response is in a class of its own and shares the common surname in name only.

Status-quo cybersecurity works by securing the boxes in which our data resides. Twenty years ago, that used to be on-premises networks surrounded by the perimeter. Then, the perimeter died drastically and was replaced with email servers and cloud repositories. Now, its data lakes and environments so complex that a box can hardly be seen. Or, in the case of the cloud, it morphs so much that it is barely recognizable.

This is not good for advocates of data protection but great for attackers who thrive in our confusion and in the gaps that exist between the boxes. After all, you cant secure what you cant see, and todays environments obfuscate the true location of data so well that we, as security practitioners, can hardly keep up with it.

Advantages of Data Detection and Response

The IEEE Computer Society lists the top five benefits of DDR as:

Innovative data classification | DDR solutions sort and label data by content and lineage, meaning not only what it is but where it came from. Sometimes, the history tells the story  was this information kept in high-clearance databases only to end up on Chads Slack? Something must be off. Protects data in motion | As they state, Data is most at risk when in motion, so thats when DDR scans it. The real damage is done when data travels (outside of the enterprise, from a person who has access to one who does not, to a mysterious external server in Belize), isnt it? Follows data across all assets | DDR doesnt start in one box (say OneDrive) and then picks its job back up again when the data has landed in another box (say the corporate email server). Instead, it follows all the steps in between, and it follows the data itself. Real-time exfiltration protection | By alerting teams at the first sign of trouble (instead of the last) DDR gives SOCs a fighting chance of stopping the threat in real-time. Data-centric approach | By connecting monitoring, alerts, and additional protections to the actual data, DDR gives organizations more accurate data classification and more gapless coverage.

The second benefit is what well be focusing on today.

DDR Knows What Your Data Did Last Summer

Then, along came a revolutionary idea. What if we dont protect the boxes but rather the data itself? DDR would, in effect, tag data so that a GPS-type homing beacon would keep a gapless record of where it went, who accessed it, what they did with it, and (with the help of some cyber sleuthing) perhaps why.

The most important thing is that DDR enables teams to chart the safe route for certain types of sensitive data (as classified by the team) and deny any funny business attempted with said data beyond that. And the proof is in where the data goes, not where it sleeps at night.

As Data Detection and Response provider Cyberhaven explains,

Data sitting on a file server, or in a Google Drive folder, or in a Snowflake database untouched for months or even years doesnt have much insider risk until an employee does something with it When an employee accesses that data on the file server, tries to share the Google Drive folder, or exports data from Snowflake, thats when the risk to data increases. Data Detection and Response relies on real-time monitoring, detection of risks, and response to better protect data.

Spotting Data Fouls in Real-Time

Knowing where exactly your data is getting off to is advantageous for several reasons, but perhaps none so important as being able to spot threats to your data in real-time. If SOCs receive an alert that an employee is trying to send confidential merger documents to their personal email, teams will be made aware of the attempt as it is happening, giving them a chance to respond.

Notifying a SOC that a sensitive repository has been breached is important, but it is not as important as letting them know when any data has left that repository. Conversely, an employee may send sensitive financial data to their personal cloud repository without ever having breached a protected system to get it  perhaps they are in finance and have legitimate access to the database.

Being able to spot real-time data fouls is a key advantage that DDR brings to the table, and the fact that these errors are being caught right at the cusp of an obviously illicit activity is itself a vetting system that prevents false positives.

In todays data-centric world, it is becoming necessary to keep closer and closer tabs on our information. With the risk of insider threats high  Verizon estimates nearly one in five breaches originate from the inside  and the threat of ever more subtle external tactics, it is more important than ever to not look at only boxes and buckets but the data itself  and most importantly, what people are doing with it.

Speaking of zero trust, Dave Lewis, the global advisory CISO for Duo Security, offered some words of advice that could sum up the rationale of DDR in a soundbite: Dont trust something simply because its inside your firewall  theres no reason for that. Or, inside any of your access-controlled spaces, we might add. Instead, he suggests, Assume everythings on fire. And more often than you want to, youll be right.

However, DDR is one of the only tools on the market that can track the fire at its impetus, and thats wherever data made its first wrong step.

About the Author Katrina Thompson: An ardent believer in personal data privacy and the technology behind it, Katrina Thompson is a freelance writer leaning into encryption, data privacy legislation and the intersection of information technology and human rights. She has written for Bora, Venafi, Tripwire and many other sites.

Follow me on Twitter: @securityaffairs and Facebook and Mastodon

Pierluigi Paganini

(SecurityAffairs  hacking, DDR Advantage)
Baltimore bridge collapse (REUTERS)

The Dali set out from the Port of Baltimore around 1am on Tuesday, a local pilot manoeuvring the container ship towards open waters after two days in the harbour in preparation for its next sail to Sri Lanka. The 948-foot vessel edged closer to Francis Scott Key Bridge and its four lanes of I-695 over the Patapsco River; early-morning traffic was relatively light as construction crews fixed potholes on the major thoroughfare thats served the region since 1977.

The bridge was in fair condition, according to records from its last 2021 inspection viewed by the Wall Street Journal; the construction was essentially cosmetic and the workers, presumably, immersed in routine. Then the lights of the Dali went off, on, and off again; it wasnt long before the ship issued a mayday call and officers rushed to stop additional traffic from crossing Key bridge. The Dali, having lost propulsion and power, crashed into a bridge support buttress just before 1.30am; less than a minute later, the majority of the structure vanished beneath the surface of the Pataspco.

The collapse sounded like a crash to nearby residents; others thought it was an earthquake. But as speechless locals surveyed a scene now devoid of its landmark bridge, authorities launched a frantic recovery effort to save construction workers and motorists whod been caught up in the accident.

And everyone began asking questions about how this could have happened.

It was a time and place: Everything that could have went wrong did go wrong, and the place, unfortunately, was right by the bridge, Kevin Calnan, a maritime transportation professor at Cal Maritime, tells The Independent. As far as engine failures and situations like this, it is rare. And then its exceptionally more rare for this to be in a port area.

(AP)

Despite the rarity of such an event, however, contributing factors may have been at play from both the bridge engineering and shipping sides, according to experts. Construction began on Key Bridge in 1972 and continued after its 1977 opening, but the size of particularly container ships has changed drastically in the intervening decades.

Story continues

Calling the incident a true tragedy, Jerome Hajjar  professor of civil and environmental engineering at Northeastern University  said the collapse could have resulted from a mismatch between the size of the load on the Dali and the expected loads at the time of the bridge design.

The bridge supports would most likely have been designed to be able to withstand some amount of sideways or lateral load like this, he told Northeastern Global News .

And therefore I would also assume that this load was significantly higher than typical design loads.

Older bridges like this one, then, may not have sufficient pier protection cells to act as buffers, essentially stopping any colliding forces from directly making impact with support structures, which are not built to withstand such tonnage, experts say.

Regardless of what type of bridge you have, if a cargo ship hits one of the supports, and if the bridge is a multi-span, if one of the supports are gone, that bridge is going to collapse, Atorod Azizinamini, professor of civil engineering at Florida International University, tells The Independent.

When we design a bridge, there is a very specific requirement that you have to protect the supports of the bridge against the ship colliding [with] supports, says Azizinamini, who is also director of FIUs Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center. So youve got to remember that the cargo ships  the impact force could be in the millions of pounds. So theres very specific requirements  you have protection cells or you build some massive structures around the bridge so that the ship doesnt hit the support of the bridge but hits those protection cells or the massive structure.

From what I have seen, it seems like those protection cells that were around the support were minimal, Azizinamini says. It doesnt appear to be up to current codes. But its very early to say.

(AP)

A multitude of agencies were investigating on Tuesday, with Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttiegieg, Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt and the NTSB on site offering federal support and assistance, the FHWA told The Independent in a statement.

Azizinamini, for his part, theorizes that the NTSB report may prompt the issue of some policy changes that maybe re-evaluate the protection structure that you have around the piers, make sure thats up to date, and if you dont have it, go ahead and build it.

Many of these bridges have been built many years ago, before the current standards were in place  so they may expedite that process, he says.

While Azizinamini and his engineering cohort assess the collapse from a structural standpoint, the maritime community is focusing on the container ship.

This morning, since Im a professional mariner, my mind immediately went to: What happened on the ship? versus How can we build bridges better?  because one of our rules is: Dont hit things with your ship  a very, very simple rule, Cal Maritimes Calnan tells The Independent.

So my mind kind of immediately went to, Well, what happened on board? I want the details of the engine failure, were there any deficiencies in any of the engineering equipment that were noted before the ship even left? What happened once it did get underway?

Tuesdays incident wasnt Dalis first collision. Dali previously collided with a platform, known as a quay, while leaving the Port of Antwerp in Belgium in July 2016, according to VesselFinder. That caused significant damage to its hull, and it was docked for repairs before returning to duty.

The shipping giant Maersk had chartered the vessel, which was carrying Maersk cargo and was being operated by Synergy Marine Group.

We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected, Maersk said in a statement.

Calnan noted that the ships crew made the mayday call, adding that the loss of power clearly wasnt something they anticipated happening; Marylands governor highlighted the importance of that emergency call and the subsequent scramble of authorities to prevent more people from crossing the bridge.

These people are heroes, Gov. Wes Moore said in a Tuesday morning news conference. They saved lives last night.

Two construction workers survived, while authorities continued to search Tuesday for other victims in the water. It remained unclear how many vehicles had been on the bridge at the time of the collapse.

Calnan, for his part, said theres been a noticeable and impressive shift in the shipping safety culture in recent years and awaits the results of the NTSB report to find out what happened here. Despite the tragic loss of life, he says, a disaster such as this leads to legislators and the procedural operation of these vessels  it kind of makes all of us stand back and say: All right, well, this happened, we know this, what can we do to avoid this?

This is a culture that weve been doing for years and years and years in the maritime industry, in aviation, as well: Learn from mistakes. This is quite unfortunate that it happened, but as far as increasing safety in the future, it wont be in vain.
CHEROKEE, Iowa  A Cherokee Washington High School teacher was arrested Tuesday on allegations he was grooming a student for a potential relationship.

Joseph Vannatta, 46, of Cherokee, was booked into the Cherokee County Jail on one count of sexual exploitation by a school employee, a Class D felony.

Vannatta's current employment status with the district is not clear. District superintendent Thomas Ryherd could not immediately be reached for comment. Vannatta is licensed in Iowa to teach K-12 music.

According to a complaint filed in Cherokee District Court, Vannatta "engaged in a scheme of conduct to insert himself into (the student's) sexual life" from approximately Aug. 17, 2022, through May 26.

The student filed a complaint against Vannatta on April 25 with local law enforcement, court documents said. During interviews at the MercyOne Siouxland Child Advocacy Center in Sioux City and with law enforcement officers, the student said Vannatta would have counseling sessions in his office while the student and other witnesses sat on a couch. Vannatta would insert himself into social media conversations with the student and make personal comments.

Vannatta engaged in sexual conversations with the student, asking about the student's boyfriend and their sex life. The complaint said Vannetta also provided a bedroom in his home to the student and the student's boyfriend "to nap" while Vannatta and his family were in the basement.

In February 2023, the student was not eligible to attend state honor band in Cedar Falls, but Vannatta told the high school principal he would give the student extra credit, making the student eligible to attend and perform. It was a lie, the complaint said. Vannatta didn't give the student any extra credit, but the student was allowed to attend honor band, where Vannatta was the only chaperone for the student and other students who attended.

"This scheme of conduct that Vannatta was doing with (the student) had led (the student) to feel that (the student) was being groomed to have a relationship with him (Vannatta)," police said in the complaint.

A warrant for Vannatta's arrest was issued Tuesday and he was arrested later in the day.

If found guilty, he could face a five-year prison sentence.
SIOUX CITY  A Sioux City man has pleaded guilty of setting a fire that damaged a Sioux City house.

Victor Montepeque-De Leon, 31, pleaded guilty Wednesday in Woodbury County District Court to one count of second-degree arson. A charge of first-degree criminal mischief was dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

In accordance with terms of the plea agreement, District Judge Robert Tiefenthaler suspended a 10-year prison sentence and placed Montepeque-De Leon on three years probation. Restitution for damages to the home will be determined at a later date.

Firefighters responded to the fire at 6:24 a.m. on Jan. 8 at 1114 Jennings St. Montepeque-De Leon was alone inside the home and was transported to MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center, where he was treated for smoke inhalation and told emergency room staff he had started the fire.

The fire began in his bedroom, and his clothing tested positive for accelerants, as did the fires point of origin.

Montepeque-De Leon told police that on the morning of the fire, he was suicidal, under the influence of methamphetamine and had overdosed on prescription drugs and couldnt recall how the fire started.

The fire caused more than $50,000 in damage to the two-story house, which was red-tagged at that time as unfit for occupation because of heavy fire and smoke damage.
SIOUX CITY -- A Woodbury County jury on Wednesday found a man guilty of robbing a woman at gunpoint outside a Sioux City convenience store.

At the conclusion of a six-day trial, jurors found Asa Starr, 20, of Sioux City, guilty of first-degree robbery, assault while participating in a felony and felon in possession of a firearm. A sentencing date has yet to be set.

Starr robbed the woman on June 27, 2022, while she was filling her car with gas at Select-Mart, 4103 Floyd Blvd. A car pulled up next to her, and Starr got out of the passenger side, approached her and demanded her belongings while displaying a gun. The woman, who had children inside her vehicle, grappled with Starr before complying with his demands for not only her credit card, but a bag inside her vehicle.

Starr got back into the car and fled into Plymouth County, where he fired the gun at another person after discarding some of the stolen items at the person's property. He was seen burying what was believed to be a pistol in a dirt pile at a third location, and police retrieved a .25-caliber handgun from the site.

Starr was sentenced in May to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty of second-degree robbery and second-degree burglary in connection with a Nov. 15, 2020, robbery in which he broke into a home at 6004 Morningside Ave., threatened the occupant with a gun and stole televisions and a video game system.
The stunning collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge is diverting shipping and trucking around one of the busiest ports on America's East Coast, creating delays and raising costs in the latest disruption to global supply chains.

After the container ship Dali hit the bridge and brought it down early Tuesday, ship traffic entering and leaving the Port of Baltimore was suspended indefinitely. That will require rerouting vessels or their cargo to other ports, potentially causing congestion and delays for importers, said Judah Levine, head of research for the global freight booking platform Freightos.

People right now are figuring out where are they going and what are their options, Ami Daniel, CEO of the maritime intelligence company Windward in Tel Aviv, Israel, said.

The Dali was the only container vessel in the port at the time of the collision, but seven others had been scheduled to arrive in Baltimore through Saturday, Levine said. Six people, part of a crew that had been filling potholes on the bridge, were missing after the span came down, and their company said they were presumed dead.

Aside from the obvious tragedy, this incident will have significant and long-lasting impacts on the region, American Trucking Associations spokesperson Jessica Gail said, calling Key Bridge and Baltimore's port "critical components'' of the nation's infrastructure.

Gail noted that 1.3 million trucks cross the bridge every year  3,600 a day. Trucks that carry hazardous materials will now have to make 30 miles of detours around Baltimore because they are prohibited from using the city's tunnels, she said, adding to delays and increasing fuel costs.

The accident comes as global shipping has largely adjusted to disruptions from Houthi rebel attacks on vessels in the Red Sea. The attacks, which started amid the Israel-Hamas war, have forced ships to take the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa and required more ships to sail more often.

The diversions have pushed freight rates from Asia to the U.S. to roughly double what they were before the war.

Baltimore's port has become increasingly important to U.S. retailers and manufacturers seeking to diversify their supply networks and bring goods closer to customers, said Jonathan Gold, vice president of supply chain and customs policy at the National Retail Federation.

Everybody is trying to figure out the impact of the supply chain from the loss of the bridge, said Gold who spoke with big and small retailers Tuesday.

Americans should expect shortages, said Ryan Petersen, CEO of the supply chain management company Flexport. He said the accident would have significant repercussions for ocean container shipping and East Coast trucking logistics.

Its not just the port of Baltimore thats going to be impacted, he said.

Petersen was working with his team Tuesday to reroute about 800 shipping containers currently making their way to the Port of Baltimore. Flexport had two containers onboard the Dali; one was filled with a donated playground equipment headed to Zambia.

Its a scramble because each of those containers has now a new journey to clear customs. Youve got to get a different truck to pick it up at a different port. It creates a whole lot of downstream work, he said.

Petersen said the attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea already forced traffic away from the Suez Canal and increased congestion in the Panama Canal. With U.S. importers increasingly shifting to West Coast ports that in turn may experience their own backups, you get this vicious feedback loop, he said.

The use of trucks as an alternative to shipping goods will also cause traffic backups on U.S. thoroughfares, Petersen predicted. The East Coast I-95 corridor is going to be a real disaster, he said.

Still, Levine thinks the bridge collapse is unlikely to have a big impact on global trade, certainly nothing like the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. First, Baltimore is not a major port for container vessels. And second, shipping traffic from Asia is in the annual lull following China's Lunar New Year holiday.

While shipments are pushed forward to get things out ahead of the holiday in early February, the period afterwards is the slow season for ocean freight, he said.

The bridge collapse nevertheless is likely to have an outsize impact on the regional economy around Baltimore and on businesses that rely on shipments of steel and cars that come through the port.

The Port of Baltimore is one of the largest vehicle handling ports in the U.S., and a lengthy closure could disrupt the supply of new vehicles. In 2022, Baltimore ranked No. 1 with more than 750,000 vehicles going through the port, 70% of them imports, according to the publication Automotive Logistics.

However, supply chain experts say the Port of Los Angeles and others may have overtaken it last year based on the value of autos passing through.

And since most vehicles purchased in the U.S. are made in North America and don't come by sea, experts do not expect big problems.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapses
A World War II-era ship tested in harrowing Navy and Coast Guard missions by the dozens looks to have a better future than the scrap heap.

Mark Doc Avraham is spearheading efforts to care for the decommissioned boat  named the USS Shackle while in the Navy and Acushnet during its Coast Guard service  at a marina in Tacoma, Washington. He envisions it being a place for homeless veterans to live and train for jobs, and a museum with a cafe.

And who knows  perhaps the Shackle/Acushnet could return to Napa County, California. Eight decades ago, Basalt built ships for the Navy at the site of today's Napa Pipe.

I wonder if Napa has a place for a group like ours? Avraham asked recently.

A long list of honors

Acushnet is 213 feet long and powered by four diesel engines and twin propellers. It has a maximum speed of 14.6 knots, or 17 mph, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

As the USS Shackle, it served the Navy as a rescue and salvage ship during World War II in such places as Iwo Jima, Midway and Okinawa. Between April and September of 1945, it completed 55 salvage and rescue missions in the western Pacific Ocean for ships damaged in Japanese kamikaze air attacks.

The Shackle became the Coast Guard cutter Acushnet in 1946. In 1952, it helped rescue crews when two tankers split in half off Cape Cod, Massachusetts. In 1978, it covered 18,000 miles in 82 days gathering data for the Global Weather Experiment.

Its honors are many  Presidential Unit Citation, World War II Victory Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, four National Defense Service Medals, six Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendations, Transportation 9-11 Ribbon and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, to name a few.

The Coast Guard retired Acushnet in 2011, and the federal government declared it surplus property. A man bought it for $600,825 in March of that year, according to a Coast Guard historian.

Various reports, including one in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, said the buyer duped a widow out of money for the purchase. Initial attempts to find a new use for the ship failed.

Acushnet's glory days had ended, at least for a time.

Avraham and his son were looking for a ship about two years ago. They had a boat that they used to take veterans, at-risk youth and others fishing and crabbing, but they wanted something bigger.

"One day my son and I were driving and saw a homeless vet," Avraham said. "We stopped to help, made a call to get him emergency shelter and while driving it hit us  we could do more. So we started looking for a ship that would allow us more latitude on what we could do."

They found Acushnet for sale. The asking price was too high at $230,000, but the owner sold it for $90,000.

The ship is structurally sound and seaworthy, Avraham said. The inside is about 93% in good condition, with such flaws as a hood for a range that doesnt work.

Avraham has already run a veterans' program on the ship. He talked of serving people who are looking for direction after leaving the military. The ship is a place to learn skills ranging from electronics to cooking in the galley.

We have four massive engines they can work on to get a maritime ticket for working on a boat, he said.

'A time capsule'

Volunteers help maintain Acushnet. Dan DeVaul is among them, taking on such jobs as working on electrical panels.

In 1978 and 1979, DeVaul served in the Coast Guard on the cutter Yocona, a sister ship of Acushnet that Basalt launched into the Napa River in 1944 as the USS Seize. The Navy sank Yocona in October 2005 as part of a training exercise.

When DeVaul helps with electrical work and other chores on Acushnet, he is reminded of his youth serving on Yocona. The two ships were nearly identical, he said.

Its kind of like going back in a time capsule when youre aboard, said DeVaul.

Hes taken another look at the past. In 2015, he was living in Sacramento, California, and went to what remained of the Basalt shipyard in Napa. He saw such remnants as the four concrete drydocks and took photographs.

That was the most incredible feeling  you couldnt believe it was still there, he said.

Avraham is a San Diego native and went to high school in Sacramento.

"Im very familiar with Napa. A great place, he said.

But Avraham hasn't been to what's left of the old Basalt shipyard. He said he'd like to see the place where Acushnet was born.

Before Acushnet could be born, however, Basalt Rock Co. had to be born.

Where it all started

The attraction was the hills where today's Syar quarry is located. Basalt and rhyolite formed there from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago that sent flows down the Napa Valley.

Leo J. Alexander, the son of a pioneer, formed a company to mine the hills in 1914. By 1926, the company was called Basalt Rock Co., had 50 workers and provided crushed rock for paving and reinforced concrete.

Rock had to get from the hills to construction sites. The Napa River provided the transportation. Basalt built a cable tram system that carried buckets of rock for nearly two miles to the riverbank.

The cable crosses the state highway and frequently excites the interest and curiosity of travelers on the highway, said the 1926 book History of Solano and Napa Counties.

Albert Streblow soon joined Alexander in the quarrying operation and eventually became the companys first president. Today, his name graces Streblow Drive leading to Napa Valley College and Kennedy Park.

Basalt needed barges to move stones to projects in the San Francisco Bay area. In 1938, it opened its own shipyard along the Napa River to build steel barges.

Then came World War II. During that era, 15 emergency shipyards were created in the state, 11 of them in the Bay area. The Basalt yard became part of the war effort.

In August 1940, Streblow announced that Basalt had been awarded a Navy contract to build eight steel barges. That was only the start, with the company in 1941 constructing four dry docks to help with the undertaking. It went on to build minelayers and salvage ships for the Navy.

Here Acushnet was built as the USS Shackle. Its launching along with two other ships on April 1, 1943, made local headlines. According to the Navy, this marked the first one-day triple ship christening in the Bay area since World War I a quarter-century earlier.

The Basalt site has been home to other industries over the years, such as Kaiser Steel and Napa Pipe. Today, RiverSound is being built as a community of homes, businesses and a Costco. The industrial past is being traded for a slice of suburbia.

Still, that past isn't being wiped clean. The four drydocks remain at RiverSound as reminders of another age, when ships such as the Shackle/Acushnet were built there.

Meanwhile, Acushnet is at The Marina at Brown Point in Tacoma. Avraham said there are such problems as providing the ship with enough electricity.

My ultimate goal is to find a city or a place where we could park the boat, work on it, possibly go to drydock, start the program, do the museum work, do the homeless program, he said.

He's not limiting the search to Washington.

Were open to going back home to Napa. That would be great, Avraham said.

In Detroit, a building is transformed into permanent housing for veterans experiencing homelessness In Detroit, a building is transformed into permanent housing for veterans experiencing homelessness 'It takes a lot of work'
DES MOINES  State general funding for Iowas K-12 public schools would increase by 2.5 percent, beginning public teachers salaries would be boosted and the funding and structure of Iowas nine area education agencies would be altered under sweeping education legislation that will soon be signed into law by Gov. Kim Reynolds.

Iowa Senate Republicans approved the bill Tuesday, giving final legislative approval to a proposal that realizes  at least partially  a goal set out by Reynolds during her Condition of the State address nearly three months ago.

Shortly after, Reynolds office announced she will sign the bill into law Wednesday at the Iowa Capitol.

Area education agencies oversee education of Iowa students with disabilities and offer media and consulting services to schools and students within their boundaries.

The approval sends a strong message: every Iowa student deserves a world class education, and the compensation of every Iowa teacher should reflect the importance of their role, Reynolds said in a statement. Over the last several weeks, this bill has been the focus of much discussion and debate. Change is seldom easy, but it is necessary to achieve better results. Reforming the AEA system creates accountability, transparency, consistency, and most importantly, better outcomes for all Iowas students.

Only Republicans in the Iowa Legislature voted in favor of the proposed legislation, and a few in each chamber voted against it.

Democrats said they support the boost in teacher pay but voted against the bill because of how it would alter area education agencies and because they believe the 2.5 percent increase in state funding to schools is too low.

AEA changes

Currently, federal and state special education funding goes directly to the area education agencies, which provide support services to schools. AEAs also receive property tax funding for media services and other education services for schools.

Under the bill, House File 2612, 10 percent of state funding at full implementation would remain with school districts for them to use how they see fit, while 90 percent would continue to be allocated directly to the AEAs.

In the second year, all state funding for other education services and media services would go directly to schools, which could use that funding on AEA services or through another entity instead.

The proposal also creates a division in the Iowa Department of Education  up to 53 new full-time equivalent positions  to provide oversight of special education services provided by the AEAs and establishes a task force to study AEA structure and funding and recommend future changes.

The plan has drawn strong opposition from educators and parents of students with disabilities who worry it will hurt special education in the state.

Most school superintendents also expressed opposition to the legislation, although some said they are in favor of having more control of their special education dollars.

Public school funding

The 2.5 percent increase in state general funding for public school districts means an additional $119 million in the 2024-2025 school year, for a total of $3.8 billion, according to the states nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency.

Warmly, Warmly,

Teacher salaries

The minimum salary for first-year teachers in Iowa would increase from the current $33,500 to $47,500 in the 2024-2025 school year and $50,000 the next year.

And the minimum salary for teachers with at least 12 years of experience would be set at $60,000 in the upcoming school year and $62,000 the following year.

The bill also includes $22 million in the upcoming school year and $23 million the next year to address other veteran teachers salaries, and $14 million to help boost the pay of educational support staff, like para educators.

Caleb McCullough of The Gazette-Lee Des Moines Bureau contributed.
DES MOINES  Significant changes to the funding and operations of Iowas nine area education agencies that provide support to schools  plus an increase in state school funding and a boost in teacher pay  were signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Kim Reynolds.

The area education agency changes reflect a goal set out by Reynolds during her Condition of the State address nearly three months ago. However, what she signed into law is a stripped-down version of what she originally proposed after strong backlash from advocates for special education and AEAs.

During a bill-signing ceremony in her formal office at the Iowa Capitol, the Republican governor said the new law will improve special education for students with disabilities, and called the changes meaningful and necessary reform. She said while the AEA system works well for some students, that hasnt been the experience for all students.

Some schools havent used some of the AEA services despite being forced to pay for them. Others have felt that they didnt receive the quality that they expect, Reynolds said. And many schools, urban and rural, large and small, have raised concerns about a lack of transparency regarding the cost of AEA services.

Democrats vehemently opposed the changes to Iowas area education agencies, arguing from the start that significant alterations were unnecessary.

Rep. Jennifer Konfrst, from Windsor Heights, who leads the minority party in the House, again criticized Reynolds and Republicans for approving the legislation.

When you look at the celebration (Reynolds) is having, I want you to think about the families who have so much uncertainty now as theyre wondering what will happen to the (AEA) services in their communities, what will happen to their kids who are getting AEA services. There are so many questions, Konfrst said.

What the new law will do

The new law will:

 Increase state funding for Iowas K-12 public schools by 2.5 percent in the next school year, which is a $119 million increase for a total of $3.8 billion, according to the states nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency.

 Raise the minimum salary for a first-year public school teacher in Iowa from the current $33,500 to $47,500 in the 2024-2025 school year and $50,000 the next year, and set a minimum salary for teachers with at least 12 years of experience to $60,000 in the upcoming school year and $62,000 the following year.

 Budget $22 million in the upcoming school year and $23 million the next year to address other veteran teachers salaries, and $14 million to help boost the pay of educational support staff, like paraeducators.

 Make many operational and funding changes to the area education agencies: keep some funding for special education and other education and media services with school districts instead of sending the funds directly to the AEAs; move special education oversight from the AEAs to the state education department; and create a task force to study and recommend future changes to AEAs.

AEA changes in the law

Area education agencies oversee education of Iowa students with disabilities and offer media and consulting services to schools and students in their boundaries.

Currently, federal and state special education funding goes directly to the nine agencies. AEAs also receive property tax funding for media services and other education services for schools in their region.

Once the new law is fully implemented in the second year, 10 percent of state funding for special education services will remain with school districts for them to use, while 90 percent will continue to flow directly to the AEAs.

In the second year, all state funding for other education services and media services will go directly to schools  which could use that money for AEA services or to get them from another entity.

The law also creates a division in the Iowa Department of Education  up to 53 new full-time equivalent positions  to provide oversight of special education services provided by the AEAs.

AEA debate reaches conclusion

Reynolds proposal to overhaul the agencies, a system created five decades ago by lawmakers, drew strong opposition from educators and parents of students with disabilities who worry it will hurt special education in the state. Most school superintendents also expressed opposition, although some said they are in favor of having more control of their special education dollars.

The final proposal was the result of weeks of negotiations between Reynolds and majority Republicans in the House and Senate, and discussions with AEA officials and school superintendents.

While this bill has been the focus of much discussion and debate, it has also presented opportunities for insightful conversations and meaningful compromise, Reynolds said. When it comes to legislation that offers so much potential for the future of our state, I appreciate knowing that there is a willingness to keep the lines of communication open and to continue to work together to reach a compromise. That took place from the very beginning of the session, and I thin we ended in a really good place.

The compromise, House File 2612, was approved by only Republican lawmakers. All Democrats and some Republicans voted against the overall bill because of their objections to the AEA provisions.

Democrats said they also opposed the 2.5 percent school funding measure, saying it is insufficient. They expressed support for the teacher pay boost, and criticized Republicans for combining the provisions into one bill.

The reason teacher pay was included in the final package is to hold teacher pay hostage, and so that they can do exactly what theyre doing now, which is to say that some (Democrats) didnt vote for teacher pay, Konfrst told reporters. There was more wrong with this bill than there was right with this bill.

Sen. Ken Rozenboom, a Republican from Pella who chairs the Senate Education Committee, said the new law will make changes to AEAs that are modest and fair but necessary, and will not threaten the viability of the AEA system. He said it also will add accountability and transparency that he says is currently lacking.

The AEAs have done a tremendous amount of good for many, many years in Iowa, and all of us are appreciative of that, Rozenboom said at the bill-signing ceremony. As Ive said many times, there are a thousand bright stars in the AEA constellation. But the world has changed since the AEAs were created in 1974, and reform is needed.

Rep. Skyler Wheeler, a Republican from Hull who managed the bill in the House and has a 5-year-old daughter with autism who receives special education services from an AEA, said superintendents, school board members, teachers, private school officials and parents of students with disabilities all were involved in discussions with lawmakers during the legislative process.

We are improving on a system that will see increases and outcomes for our students, Wheeler said.

Sen. Pam Jochum, from Dubuque, who leads the minority party Senate Democrats, issued a statement thanking what she said were thousands of Iowans who expressed their opposition to the AEA changes.

Parents, educators, students, and community leaders changed the course of this legislation, Jochum said. They prevented Republican politicians from fast-tracking this bill and exposed Gov. Reynolds misplaced priorities.

The major changes in the new law go into effect July 1.
In Nov. 2023, McDonalds test-marketed a top secret variation on its iconic Big Mac at a handful of locations in Miami, Florida.

The signature sandwich contained most of the expected ingredients (lettuce, American cheese, three slices of a sesame seed bun) minus one.

In place of an all-beef patty, the food scientists at Mickey Ds substituted a chicken patty.

Yup, you read that right.

Already a hit in Canada as well as in various European countries, the Golden Arches was formulating a Chicken Big Mac for the American market.

Even though Miami was the only locale to received the limited-edition Big Mac, it provided some food for thought to the Weekender team of taste testers.

Has chicken replaced burger and fries when in comes to fast food fanatics?

According to Restaurant Business Online, chicken has seen a marked increased in popularity since the pandemic.

Places that would normally emphasize a burger have expanded their chicken offerings as a way to lure comfort-seeking consumers looking for familiar, delivery-friendly and, most important, relatively inexpensive family meals.

Plus be on the lookout for more Chick-fil-A and Popeyes to be popping up around you.

In fact, the trend-spotters at Market Research Future forecast that take-out fried chicken joints will take in around $9.85 billion by 2030.

This is a lotta beak for the buck.

Which is why the Weekender cadre of taste testers have tried three recently introduced menu items from three different national chains, all featuring the star of the poultry world.

So, why did the chicken cross the road? To get away from us because we had a hankering for plenty of white meat.

Popeyes Signature Hot Wings

Did you know Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen has been around more than 50 years, yet it only permanently added chicken wings to its menu late last year?

Sure, the Arabi, Louisiana-founded chain had experimented with seasoned-and-saucy wings, off and on, for years. In fact, the Sweet N Spicy and Ghost Pepper wings acquired a nice cult following during limited runs.

But it was only in late November that Popeyes added Honey BBQ, Roasted Garlic Parmesan and Signature Hot as well as brought back Sweet N Spicy and Ghost Pepper Wings.

For our testing purposes, we selected Popeyes Signature Hot Wings.

What we received were craggy and meaty wings that were well-tossed in Popeyes signature Cajun sauce. Featuring a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne peppers and other seasonings, the Signature sauce that was sufficiently spicy, with a slightly sweet undertone.

All in all, this was a respectable start.

We give it four pecks out of a possible five.

KFCs Chizza

Its not pizza, the sign inside of KFC said, Its Chizza!

Introduced in February, the Chizza  which is, apparently pronounced Cheet-zah  is actually two pieces of white meat fried chicken filets, topped with a marinara sauce, melty mozzarella and a few crispy pieces of pepperoni.

According to KFCs website, the Chizza debuted on menus in the Philippines in 2015, before expanding to such countries as Korea, Taiwan, Germany, Spain and Mexico.

When we heard about the limited edition Chizza, we didnt automatically think of pizza. Instead, we thought it was a variation on a chicken parmesan.

Turns out we were correct. Even our counterman agreed with us that this was chicken parm that you could eat with your hands.

Was it messy? Yes. Was it delicious? No, but it will satisfy you in pinch. Do we give KFC props for innovation? Yeah, we can do that.

We give it 2.5 pecks out of five.

Taco Bells Cantina Chicken Bowl

Is Taco Bell simply a place where you go for your late-night munchies? Maybe it was in the past.

Nowadays, the land of Live Mas wants to compete with such fast casual joints like Qdoba or Chipotle Mexican Grill.

That is why Taco Bell recently introduced a special Cantina Chicken, served in soft or crispy taco shells, burrito, quesadilla or, as in our choice, a bowl.

On its website, TB describes the chicken as being oven-roasted, shredded and seasoned with a blend of savory Mexican spices.

taco bell's cantina chicken bowl Made with oven-roasted and shredded chicken seasoned with Mexican seasonings, Taco Bell's Cantina Chicken Bowl fell short when it came to tast

We were excited to order the Cantina Chicken Bowl, which had ingredients that ticked a number of boxes.

In addition to the chicken, the bowl contained seasoned rice, black beans, cabbage, sour cream, Pico de Gallo guacamole, cheddar cheese and a Avocado Verda salsa.

Out of the three dishes we ordered, it was probably the prettiest. Sadly, the chicken, beans and rice were lackluster.

If you want a healthier option or are simply tired of too much beef, Taco Bells Cantina Chicken Bowl might be up your alley.

We give it three pecks out of five.

Red Star Chickens Red Star chickens roost in their coop Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023, at Historic Wagner Farm in Glenview, Ill.

Barred rock chickens Barred Rock chickens roost in their coop Tuesday at Historic Wagner Farm in Glenview, Ill.
When kindergarten decisions for New York Citys public schools go out this week, thousands of parents will furiously refresh their inboxes, hoping for an offer from one of the citys popular dual-language programs. To some, the growing demand for dual-language education among American parents is cause for celebration; to others, its a pernicious new form of gentrification. As a speech and language scientist who is currently trying to raise a child in two languages, I wonder if well-intentioned researchers have exacerbated this conflict by overhyping the cognitive benefits of bilingual educationand if we could help parents understand that the true value of bilingualism is not a bigger brain but a broader mind.

In recent years, dual-language programs have acquired a reputation as the new gifted and talented: oases of educational opportunity in an increasingly shaky public school system. Because these programs have limited capacity, higher demand means that someone will inevitably be left out, and unsurprisingly, the families with the most financial resources typically elbow out the less privileged. In this case, many of the students losing access to bilingual education are those who speak another language, usually Spanish, in the homechildren coming from the very families these programs were supposed to serve in the first place.

What is driving achievement-oriented parents to pursue schooling for their children in a language they dont speak or have cultural ties to? Everyone can appreciate the additional opportunities created for a person who speaks and reads two languages fluently. However, the brain plasticity that enables young children to quickly absorb a second language also allows languages to be lost if bilingual exposure ceases after the elementary years. But many parents are unperturbed by the idea that the school language may not stick with their little one. Supposedly just the exposure to a second language makes little brains grow, whether or not they acquire the target language, commented one parent in a Facebook group.

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Remarks like this show that parents are aware of the body of research claiming that a bilingual upbringing can give children an edge in cognitive domains that extend beyond languageespecially executive function, the constellation of skills that underlies the ability to direct attention, regulate our own behavior, and solve complex problems. Children are known for their limited executive function: The prefrontal cortex, considered the seat of cognitive control, will not finish developing until the late teens or even the early 20s. A number of behavioral patterns that are typical of toddlers (and sometimes teens), such as impulsive behavior, short attention span, and difficulty transitioning from one activity to another, are emblematic of their reduced capacity for executive control. Strengthening this domain seems like a winning strategy to give a young child an edge in school and beyond.

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The most prominent name in research on bilingual advantages in cognitive function is Ellen Bialystok, a distinguished research professor of psychology at York University in Toronto. In an influential 1999 study, Bialystok compared bilingual and monolingual preschoolers in tasks that assess executive function, such as sorting cards when the rules are constantly changing. She found that bilingual children outperformed monolingual peers in a challenging condition that required them to update the rule they followed for sorting, such as shape vs. color. A series of follow-up studies, by Bialystok and colleagues as well as other research teams, reported further evidence of bilingual childrens heightened capacity to direct attention and ignore distracters.

But scientific research tends to swing like a pendulum, and when the backlash came for the research on bilingual cognitive advantages, it was fierce and sustained. The first body blow came in 2013, when San Francisco State University researchers Kenneth Paap and Zachary Greenberg published their findings from three large-scale studies under the no-holds-barred title There Is No Coherent Evidence for a Bilingual Advantage in Executive Processing. Paap and Greenberg compared bilingual and monolingual young adults on 15 measures of executive processing. They determined only one statistically significant difference in performance on tasks requiring executive controland it favored the monolingual speakers.

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More tellingly, researchers eager to discover evidence of bilingual advantages have given up their efforts after many disappointments, then come clean about the number of studies they declined to publish after their initial hypotheses were not supported. A 2014 paper by Angela de Bruin and two colleagues has some elements of a lurid tell-all, despite being published in an ordinarily staid scientific journal. We ourselves are guilty, the authors wrote, going on to reveal that their 2009 publication reporting a bilingual advantage on a spatial attention task was the product of one of four related experiments. Three of the four showed no difference between bilingual and monolingual subjects and were left in the proverbial file drawer; only the single successful result was shepherded on to publication. The researchers then conducted another study that showed no effect of bilingualism and was again left unpublished.

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Related From Slate Well-to-Do Public-School Families Looking to Give Their Kids an Edge Have Settled on the Next Big Thing Read More

Of course, proponents of bilingual cognitive advantage did not take such claims lying down, and the years that followed have seen a brisk back-and-forth between the two camps. The field has now reached an impasse, declared a 2019 review by Australian linguist Mark Antoniou, noting that certain research groups consistently find support for a bilingual advantage, while other groups consistently find none. But even staunch supporters of bilingual advantage generally concede that the effects are not hugemeasurable in the laboratory but perhaps not important in real lifeand may be inconsistently detectable across ones life span.

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When I asked fellow researchers how they felt about the overblown vision of bilingual advantage that many parents have absorbed, they warned me not to stir this particular pot. America has a strong monolingual bias, they pointed out. Pressure to conform to this norm prevents many immigrant families from embracing their mother tongue, even though bilingualism could foster richer cultural connections and also open professional doors for their children. But the families my colleagues are worried about are the very same ones getting edged out of dual-language schools by overzealous monolingual parents. At this stage, it could be a useful corrective to tap the brakes on the PR machine touting the brain benefits of bilingual education.

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Can we reframe the conversation to focus on the unique opportunity bilingualism creates to forge connections among people with different worldviews? A classroom that brings together learners from different linguistic and social backgrounds can help a child understand that there is more than one lens through which to perceive the world. From this perspective, parents should insist that their childs dual-language classroom include a healthy representation of students with cultural ties to the target language: Their contribution is indispensable.

The thing is, no one disagrees on the value of bilingual education when the goal is to actually teach the child a second language. If we support our children in acquiring and retaining the school language, it can expand career opportunities and support them in becoming more egalitarian, empathetic citizens of the world. If we listen to the science, it tells us that the goal of bilingual education is not to replace gifted and talentedits to raise bilingual citizens.
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.

Something is wrong when the states top lawyer is forced to take a class on how to be a good lawyer. Texas Democrat John Bucy III

Three weeks before Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was scheduled to face a jury trial over felony fraud charges, he reached an eleventh-hour deal with state prosecutors. Its the second win for Paxton this yearsix months ago, he was acquitted of 16 corruption charges in a dramatic impeachment case that rocked the Texas GOP.

Now Paxton has agreed to pay about $271,000 in restitution, complete 100 hours of community service, and take 15 hours of legal ethics education. (As Democratic state House Rep. John Bucy III noted, a bit ironic for the states top law enforcement officer.) In exchange, prosecutors agreed to drop three felony charges that could have landed Paxton in prison for decades had he been convicted. The attorney generals lawyer stressed that there was no admission of guilt involved with this settlement, insisting that prosecutors, despite working on the case for nine years, could not prove that Paxton was guilty of any crimes.

Other Texas Democrats underlined the absurdity of the situation. The system is broken when our corrupt Texas Attorney General, who is under investigation by the FBI, being sued by whistleblowers, and under threat of disbarment  has to take 15 hours of legal ethics education to avoid jail time, said Democratic Sen. Roland Gutierrez, who was previously a candidate for U.S. Senate, against incumbent Sen. Ted Cruz.*

Paxton was first indicted in 2015, just months after he was first elected to the AGs office. Prosecutors accused him of duping investors after he failed to disclose that he was being paid by tech startup Servergy to recruit them. He also did not register with the state of Texas as an investment adviser. Paxton managed to delay the trial for years by initiating pretrial disputes about where the trial should take place and how much state prosecutors were being paid. (Hmm! Sounds a lot like another Republican whos notorious for his delay tactics.)

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Rep. Joaquin Castro alleged that it seemed as if Paxton had gotten special treatment; Brian Wice, the special prosecutor assigned by a judge to execute the case, insisted that the process was fair and that justice had been served: Ultimately, this was a resolution that required him, whether inferentially or indirectly, to accept responsibility. Dan Cogdell, Paxtons attorney, rejected that idea. It was a case on Day 1 we knew they couldnt prove, and on Year 9, we still knew they couldnt prove. Kens not guilty, said Cogdell.

Related From Slate Why You Should Pay Attention to the Texas Attorney Generals Impeachment Trial Read More

Paxton still faces two more legal battles. Hes been under investigation by the FBI since 2020 over corruption allegationsthe same ones Texas lawmakers tried impeaching him overand he faces a civil lawsuit brought by former aides. They accuse the attorney general of wrongful termination; Paxton fired them after finding out theyd reported him to the FBI.

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Somehow, Paxtons legal troubles dont seem to bother Texans, who have now twice reelected Paxton to the AGs office. In that post, he has continued to wield his power in ultra-conservative MAGA ways: He petitioned the Texas Supreme Court to stop a lower court order that allowed Kate Cox to obtain an abortion after her fetus was found to have a lethal abnormality. (The high court eventually ruled that Cox was ineligible for abortion, and she traveled out of state to receive one.) Paxton has also sued the Biden administration more than two dozen times since January 2021 over its immigration policies.

It certainly helps that Paxton has the full support of Donald Trump. When the attorney general was facing impeachment in the Texas Senate last year, the former president threatened Texas Republicans who voted in favor of it. Hopefully Republicans in the Texas House will agree that this is a very unfair process that should not be allowed to happen or proceedI will fight you if it does, wrote Trump on Truth Social.
Monday was a very good day for Donald Trumps pocketbook. Not only did a New York appellate court slash the $454 million bond he owed in his civil fraud lawsuit by more than 60 percent, but shares of Digital World Acquisition Corp., which merged with the former presidents Trump Media & Technology Group last week, jumped 30 percent. Trumps net worth, in turn, surged to $6.5 billion, vaulting him for the first time to Bloombergs list of the 500 richest people in the world. Per the publication, it was the single-greatest day on record for the former presidents wealth.

High on the list of people to thank for Trumps newfoundalbeit temporaryfinancial haleness is Jeff Yass, the billionaire Wall Street financier. Yass has found his name in the news quite a bit lately, all for Republican-politics-type reasons, and it looks as if he could even be primed to be the newest billionaire to take a high-level role in a possible Trump administration. Its a radical reversal for a political megadonor who has long been known as a Never Trumper.

The Digital World Acquisition Corp. merger with Trumps Truth Social had Yass fingerprints all over it. As the New York Times reported, Yasss trading firm, Susquehanna International Group, owned about 2 percent of Digital World Acquisition Corp., which merged with Trump Media & Technology Group on Friday, making it the single largest institutional shareholder of the company behind that merger. This means thatassuming Susquehanna still owns those sharesYass firm is now one of the largest institutional shareholders of Trumps social media company. (The financial boost for the former president, coming at a time of acute legal and financial distress, may prove temporary as the stock price goes down; also, Trump is currently prohibited from selling his shares.)

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But thats not the only reason Yass has been in the news, nor is it his only social media and Trump entanglement of note.

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Earlier this month, Trump made waves when he reversed course on his feelings about the TikTok ban that has been making its way through Congress. Long supportive of that policy, Trump abruptly went back on it, saying that a ban would only help Facebook and that there are a lot of young kids on TikTok who will go crazy without it.

That about-face came just days after Trump met with Yass at a Club for Growth donor event in Florida. Where that comes together is on Yass balance sheet: Yass was an early investor in TikTok and remains a major shareholder in the company. According to the Wall Street Journal, Susquehanna owns a 15 percent stake, worth an astronomical $21 billion as of last year. (Yass personally holds 7 percent of the company.)

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As Reuters reported: The U-turn on TikTok amid a major cash crunch led to speculation that Trump may be trying to court Yass.

It wouldnt be the first time Yass prompted a sudden change of heart in a presidential contender: He donated $4.9 million to Vivek Ramaswamys American Exceptionalism PAC in the second half of 2023, a period in which Ramaswamy went from calling TikTok digital fentanyl to opposing a ban.

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Yass, the richest man in Pennsylvania, with a $27 billion net worth, is a longtime Republican megadonor. His donations to local politics in Philadelphia and campaigns across Pennsylvania have made him one of the most consequential political forces in a purple state with some very blue cities. His involvement in national and high-profile statewide races has ramped up steadily; he donated $47 million to Republicans in the 2022 midterms, making him the third-largest conservative donor in the entire country, a near-tenfold increase over the $5 million he spent on the 2016 cycle.

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Still, he has, for years, held out on donating to Trump, one of the few Republicans he very pointedly hasnt supported.

But in 2024, Yass seems to be whistling a different tune. Even this early in the year, he is already the largest individual political donor in this election cycle, having laid out $46 million for conservative candidates and causes. Yass is also spending in one Democratic primary: He has donated to Moderate PAC, a super PAC that is elevating Bhavini Patel over incumbent Squad member Summer Lee in Pennsylvanias 12th District.

Yass connection to Club for Growth, the high-powered conservative super PAC, is consequential as well. That group has often been at odds with Trump in the past but looks as if it may be on its way to burying the hatchet with the former president. (Also, former Trump senior adviser Kellyanne Conway is now on the payroll at Club for Growth as a TikTok lobbyist.) The group will certainly be one of the top spenders in this presidential cycle.

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Does all this mean a top job for Yass in Trumps Cabinet should he win reelection? Bloomberg pegged him as a favorite for treasury secretary, which would make the Steve Mnuchin comparisons even more direct. This is Trump were talking about, so its highly believable that his appointments would be exactly this transactional. Yass just helped Trump with a huge financial backstop at one of the most critical points in his distressing and expensive legal drama. Theres no reason to think he wont be rewarded thusly.

Its likely too that Yass has plenty to say about the policy priorities of an incoming Trump administration, in which tax cuts are sure to be at the top of the list. As ProPublica has reported, Yass is also one of the countrys most decorated tax dodgers, exceptionally evasive even compared with other Wall Street billionaires. The publication notes that Yass, who charted over $1 billion in tax savings in recent years, paid an average federal income tax rate of just 19%, far below that of comparable Wall Street traders.

The evolution of Yass, from known Never Trumper to possible Trump ally and appointee, is a parable of Republican politics. A number of financiers once strongly at odds with the former president seem to be inching ever closer to embracing him as Election Day nears. Yass hasnt seized the spotlight or made himself the face of this trendyet. But it seems certain that his is a name that will appear more and more often as the Trump campaign revs up to November.
Content marketing is a powerful strategy for small businesses to connect with their audience, build brand awareness, and drive growth. In this article, well explore 40 up-to-date content marketing statistics that highlight its impact and significance. Whether youre a seasoned marketer or just starting out, these stats will provide valuable insights to enhance your content strategy.

Understanding Content Marketing

Content marketing is a strategic strategy that involves creating and sharing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and retain a specific audience. Its an inbound strategy, focusing on engaging and educating the audience through digital assets like text, images, and videos rather than direct promotional messages.

What is Content Creation?

Content creation is crucial for businesses to attract and engage audiences, build authority and trust, drive traffic and SEO, fuel social media and email campaigns, and support sales and conversions. By consistently producing high-quality content, businesses can attract potential customers, build authority, drive organic traffic, engage subscribers, and guide potential customers through their buying journey, ultimately fostering brand loyalty and success.

The Evolution of the Content Marketing Industry

Content marketing has come a long way, adapting to changing consumer behavior, technological advancements, and market dynamics. Here are some key milestones in its evolution:

Early Days (Pre-Internet) : Content marketing existed even before the internet. Brands published newsletters, brochures, and magazines to educate and engage their audience. John Deeres The Furrow magazine (first published in 1895) is a classic example of early content marketing.

: Digital Revolution (1990s-2000s) : The rise of the internet transformed content marketing. Websites, blogs, and email newsletters became popular channels. Brands started creating online content to attract and retain customers.

: Social Media Era (2000s-2010s) : Social media platforms emerged, providing new avenues for content distribution. Brands leveraged platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to engage with their audience directly.

: Content Diversity (2010s-Present) : The proliferation of content formats expanded options for marketers. Video, podcasts, webinars, and interactive content gained prominence. User-generated content (UGC) and influencer marketing became essential.

: Personalization and AI (Present and Beyond) : Personalized content experiences using data-driven insights became crucial. Artificial intelligence (AI) now assists in content creation, distribution, and optimization.

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Why Small Businesses Should Invest in Content Marketing

Content marketing is a crucial strategy for small businesses due to its cost-effective reach, building brand awareness, establishing authority and trust, driving organic traffic, nurturing customer relationships, supporting other marketing efforts, driving conversions and sales, being adaptable and diverse, offering various formats like blog posts, infographics, podcasts, and videos, and providing measurable results through metrics like website traffic, engagement, and conversion rates. It also helps small businesses maintain a consistent brand experience by responding to comments, addressing customer pain points, and providing solutions. Content marketing also supports other marketing efforts, such as social media campaigns, email newsletters, and paid advertising, creating a cohesive brand experience. It also drives conversions and sales by guiding potential customers through their buying journey. Unlike paid ads, content remains accessible over time, providing ongoing value. Overall, content marketing is a cost-effective and effective way for small businesses to reach a wide audience and build a strong brand presence.

Diving into Content Marketing Stats

There are over 600 million blogs online. Blogging has grown 12% since 2015. Over 6 million new posts are published every day WordPress is home to approximately 60 million blogs, and 43% of websites on the Internet are powered by WordPress 70% of consumers would rather read a blog post than view an ad 30% of readers prefer to read and share blog posts that have numbers in the title

Content Marketing Strategy Statistics

82% of marketers are actively investing in content marketing, 10% report not using content marketing, and 8% are unsure if their company uses content marketing. 69% of marketers actively invest time in SEO. 76% of marketers report that content marketing generates demand/leads (a 9 percentage points increase since last year). In addition, 63% of marketers say that content marketing helps to nurture the audience/customers/leads, and 50% say that it helps build loyalty with existing clients/customers (a 13 percentage points decrease). 40% of B2B marketers have a documented content marketing strategy. That percentage is higher among the most successful B2B marketers  64% have a documented content marketing strategy.

Content Marketing Budget Statistics

Almost 50% of professionals involved in content marketing expected their content budgets to increase over the next year, 26% expected them to stay the same, and 19% expected them to decrease. Content marketing revenue amounted to 63 billion U.S. dollars in 2022. The content market industry is set to reach 107 billion U.S. dollars by 2026.

Successful Content Marketing Campaigns Statistics

82% of marketers are actively investing in content marketing. 40% of B2B marketers have a documented content marketing strategy. That percentage is higher among the most successful B2B marketers  64% have a documented content marketing strategy. 76% of marketers report that content marketing generates demand/leads (a 9 percentage points increase since last year). Video was the primary form of content being created in 2023 (50%), followed by images (47%), and blogs (33%). Almost 80% of respondents had already adopted AI tools in their content marketing strategies.

Long Form Content Statistics

Long-form content attracts an average of 77.2% more links than shorter articles. Articles with a word count of over 2,500 earn the most links. Long reads of 3000+ words get 3 times more traffic than articles of average length (901-1200 words). : Long-form articles generate 2 times the engagement of short articles on mobile devices. The average blog post is 1236 words long.

Content Marketing ROI Statistics

54% of marketing professionals stated their organizations measured the return on investment of content marketing activities. 20% of marketers stated that they spent between three and five thousand U.S. dollars on content marketing every month in 2022. Content marketing generates over 3x as many leads as outbound marketing and costs 62% less. On average there is a content marketing ROI of 2.77 dollars for every dollar spent.

Statistics on Content Marketing Impact

76% of marketers report that content marketing generates demand/leads (a 9 percentage points increase since last year). In addition, 63% of marketers say that content marketing helps to nurture the audience/customers/leads, and 50% say that it helps build loyalty with existing clients/customers (a 13 percentage points decrease). 51% of the businesses that invest in content marketing publish content every day. 73% of respondents prefer to learn about a product or service from a short video. 11% prefer to read a text-based article, website, or post. 4% prefer to view an infographic. 3% prefer to download an ebook or manual. 3% prefer to attend a webinar or pitch. 3% prefer to receive a sales call or demo.

Statistics on Content Marketing Trends

Online videos have an audience reach of around 92.3% among internet users worldwide. 91% of people say they want to see more video content from brands. Video accounts for 82.5% of global internet traffic. 91% of marketers use video as a marketing tool. 66% of consumers report short-form videos as the most engaging content . 89% of people say watching a video has convinced them to buy a product or service. The average user spends 88% more time on websites that have videos. 85% of internet users in the United States watch online video content. YouTube is the most widely used video marketing platform, with 90% of video marketers trusting it. Only 36% of marketers have published live video content, such as live streams on social media channels.

Content Marketing Strategies

Content marketing is a crucial aspect of many businesses marketing strategies, with 82% of marketers actively investing in it. 40% of B2B marketers have a documented strategy, with 64% having a successful one. SEO is a crucial aspect of content marketing, with 69% actively investing in it. 76% of marketers report content marketing generates demand, and almost 80% have adopted AI tools.

The Role of Content Marketers

A content marketer is a professional who plans, researches, creates, distributes, and analyzes content to attract and engage potential customers. They typically create blog posts, how-to guides, videos, infographics, white papers, and more. Depending on their experience, content marketers may also be expected to conduct market research and analyze content performance.

Here are some common roles within the content marketing industry:

Content Strategist: Content strategists have a clear overview and understanding of a brands goals, messaging, and values. They develop a content strategy that is aligned with the overarching business objectives and oversee its implementation.

Content strategists have a clear overview and understanding of a brands goals, messaging, and values. They develop a content strategy that is aligned with the overarching business objectives and oversee its implementation. Content Creator: Content creators are responsible for producing a huge range of content types, from social media posts, video scripts, and long-form articles to guides, emails, downloadable content, and more. Their day-to-day work involves researching and writing engaging, accurate, and valuable content for specific audiences.

The Art of Creating Content

Creating content within the context of a content marketing strategy involves several key steps:

Understanding Your Audience: The first step in creating content is understanding who your audience is. This involves creating buyer personas, understanding their needs, and identifying the type of content they consume.

The first step in creating content is understanding who your audience is. This involves creating buyer personas, understanding their needs, and identifying the type of content they consume. Setting Clear Goals: Your content should have clear goals. Whether its to drive traffic, generate leads, or increase brand awareness, having clear goals will guide your content creation process.

Your content should have clear goals. Whether its to drive traffic, generate leads, or increase brand awareness, having clear goals will guide your content creation process. Brainstorming Content Ideas: Once you understand your audience and have clear goals, the next step is brainstorming content ideas. This can involve keyword research, competitor analysis, and using tools like Google Trends.

Once you understand your audience and have clear goals, the next step is brainstorming content ideas. This can involve keyword research, competitor analysis, and using tools like Google Trends. Creating the Content: The next step is creating the content. This involves writing the content, creating graphics, recording videos, etc. The content should be high-quality, engaging, and valuable to your audience.

The next step is creating the content. This involves writing the content, creating graphics, recording videos, etc. The content should be high-quality, engaging, and valuable to your audience. Promoting the Content: Once the content is created, the next step is promoting it. This can involve sharing it on social media, sending it to your email list, or using SEO to drive organic traffic.

Once the content is created, the next step is promoting it. This can involve sharing it on social media, sending it to your email list, or using SEO to drive organic traffic. Analyzing the Results: The final step is analyzing the results. This involves using analytics tools to measure the performance of your content and see if its achieving its goals.

Aspect Understanding Your Audience Setting Clear Goals Brainstorming Content Ideas Creating the Content Promoting the Content Analyzing the Results Objective Identify who the audience is and what they need Define what success looks like for your content Generate a list of topics and formats that will resonate with your audience Produce the actual content pieces Increase visibility and reach of your content Measure the impact of your content and its effectiveness Key Activities - Creating buyer personas

- Understanding audience needs

- Identifying content preferences - Setting specific, measurable goals

- Aligning goals with business objectives - Keyword research

- Competitor analysis

- Utilizing Google Trends - Writing, designing, and/or recording

- Ensuring quality and engagement - Social media sharing

- Email marketing

- SEO optimization - Using analytics tools

- Evaluating content performance against goals Tools & Techniques - Surveys

- Market research

- Social media listening - SMART goal framework

- Content strategy documents - SEO tools

- Social media analytics

- Content brainstorming tools - Content management systems (CMS)

- Design and video editing software - Social media platforms

- Email marketing software

- SEO tools - Google Analytics

- Social media insights

- Conversion tracking tools Outcome A deep understanding of the target audience's preferences and behaviors A roadmap for what the content should achieve A creative and strategic plan for content topics and formats Engaging and valuable content ready for distribution Expanded audience reach and engagement with the content Insights into content performance and areas for improvement Challenges - Accurately identifying audience segments

- Keeping up with changing audience preferences - Setting realistic yet challenging goals

- Aligning goals with larger business objectives - Coming up with original ideas

- Predicting content trends - Maintaining consistent quality

- Resource and time constraints - Cutting through the noise to reach the audience

- Platform algorithm changes - Interpreting data accurately

- Linking content performance to business outcomes

What The Latest Content Marketing Statistics Mean for Your Business

The latest content marketing statistics have several implications for your small business:

Investment in Content Marketing: With 82% of marketers actively investing in content marketing, its clear that content marketing is no longer optional. Its a crucial part of any marketing strategy.

With 82% of marketers actively investing in content marketing, its clear that content marketing is no longer optional. Its a crucial part of any marketing strategy. Documented Content Marketing Strategy: The fact that 64% of the most successful B2B marketers have a documented content marketing strategy highlights the importance of strategic planning in content marketing. If you dont have a content marketing strategy yet, now is the time to create one.

The fact that 64% of the most successful B2B marketers have a documented content marketing strategy highlights the importance of strategic planning in content marketing. If you dont have a content marketing strategy yet, now is the time to create one. Content Marketing for Lead Generation: Content marketing generates over 3x as many leads as outbound marketing and costs 62% less. This means that investing in content marketing can help you generate more leads while saving money.

Content marketing generates over 3x as many leads as outbound marketing and costs 62% less. This means that investing in content marketing can help you generate more leads while saving money. Use of AI Tools in Content Marketing: The widespread adoption of AI tools in content marketing points to the growing role of technology in optimizing content creation and distribution. If youre not already using AI tools in your content marketing, it might be worth exploring.

The widespread adoption of AI tools in content marketing points to the growing role of technology in optimizing content creation and distribution. If youre not already using AI tools in your content marketing, it might be worth exploring. Long-Form Content: Long-form content attracts an average of 77.2% more links than shorter articles. This suggests that creating long-form content can help you attract more links and generate more traffic.

FAQs: Content Marketing Statistics

How effective is content marketing?

Content marketing is highly effective, with 76% of marketers reporting that it generates demand and leads. Its a cost-effective strategy that drives organic traffic, nurtures customer relationships, and supports other marketing efforts.

Is content marketing in high demand?

Yes, content marketing is in high demand, with 82% of marketers actively investing in it. Its a crucial aspect of many businesses marketing strategies due to its effectiveness in generating leads and building brand awareness.

How big is the content marketing market?

The content marketing market revenue amounted to 63 billion U.S. dollars in 2022 and is projected to reach 107 billion U.S. dollars by 2026, indicating significant growth and opportunities in the industry.

What is the most important content marketing statistic for small businesses?

For small businesses, the most important content marketing statistic is that it generates over 3 times as many leads as outbound marketing and costs 62% less. This highlights its effectiveness and cost-efficiency in lead generation.

How do content marketing statistics influence marketing strategies?

Content marketing statistics provide valuable insights that help businesses make content marketing work. For instance, the widespread adoption of AI tools in content marketing indicates the importance of leveraging technology for optimization. Additionally, the preference for long-form content underscores the significance of creating comprehensive, engaging content.

What content marketing statistic is most surprising and why?

The statistic that long-form content attracts an average of 77.2% more links than shorter articles is surprising because it emphasizes the impact of content depth and quality on link generation. It underscores the importance of investing in comprehensive, in-depth content to enhance online visibility and authority.

How can a small business use content marketing statistics to improve their marketing?

Small businesses can use content marketing statistics to inform their strategy and decision-making processes. For example, they can allocate resources toward creating long-form content to maximize link generation and organic traffic or even learn ways to improve writing and SEO. Additionally, they can leverage AI tools to optimize content creation and distribution, thereby enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.

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Successful content marketers commonly employ strategies such as having a documented content marketing strategy (adopted by 40% of B2B marketers), investing in SEO (69% of marketers), and utilizing AI tools in content marketing (almost 80% adoption rate). You can also step up your marketing strategy and make your content marketing more productive by creating targeted, high-quality content that resonates with your audience and drives results.
Don't forget to do your shopping ahead of Easter, a tip for a new Slovak National Gallery exhibition, and feast your eyes on decorated eggs.

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Good evening. Here is the Wednesday, March 27 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

NATO commander visits Slovakia

From left: Defence Minister Robert Kalinak (Smer), Supreme Allied Commander Europe Christopher Cavoli, and Daniel Zmeko. (Source: US Embassy in Slovakia)

Twenty years ago, Slovakia joined NATO. Marking the anniversary, the Supreme Allied Commander Europe Christopher Cavoli visited the country at the invitation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Slovak Armed Forces, General Daniel Zmeko.

Cavoli praised Slovakia's contributions to NATO, its efforts to modernise its military, and its investments in the capabilities required to deter aggression and defend NATO territory.

"For the past 20 years, Slovakia has been a determined ally fulfilling its obligations and continues to do so in the changed security situation, when NATO's attention is focused on collective defence," said Cavoli.

He highlighted the active approach of Slovak soldiers, as well as the immediate reaction in strengthening the allied presence on the eastern flank of the Alliance.

Cavoli also visited the Lest military training area in central Slovakia, meeting with Allied Soldiers from Slovakia, Czechia, Spain, Germany, Slovenia, and the United States.

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FEATURE STORY FOR WEDNESDAY

Ukrainians are Slovakia's untapped potential

Stock image. (Source: SME - Jozef Jakubco)

Ukrainians are becoming more and more involved in Slovakia's economy not just as entrepreneurs, but as employees too. They now make up the largest proportion of workers from abroad in the country.

This is seen as good for the economy because Slovak employers had a hard time finding workers for a long time, partly due to relatively low wages. In other words, it means that Ukrainians are do not taking jobs from Slovaks as has sometimes been claimed.

EXHIBITION FOR THE COMING WEEKS

The art that remains

The Umenie, ktore zostalo exhibition (The Art That Remains) in the Slovak National Gallery. (Source: TASR)

On Thursday, a new exhibition will open in the Slovak National Gallery. Called Umenie, ktore zostalo (The Art That Remains), the event showcases never before displayed and forgotten works from the gallery's collection. These were acquired from the legendary International Biennial of Young Artists DANUVIUS 68 event that that took place following the 1968 occupation of Czechoslovakia. For more information, click here.

IN OTHER NEWS

The bear that on Sunday, March 17 ran through the centre of Liptovsky Mikulas, northern Slovakia, and injured five people, was shot dead on Tuesday evening , according to a social media post by Environment Minister Tomas Taraba (SNS nom.).

, according to a social media post by Environment Minister Tomas Taraba (SNS nom.). The last turbines at the Vojany power plant in Kosice Region were shut down on Tuesday, bringing to an end the almost 60-year history of what was once the largest thermal power plant in the former Czechoslovakia. Production in Vojany was no longer economically efficient compared to other Slovak power plants.

A decommissioned boiler of the Vojany power plant in the Michalovce district on March 26. (Source: TASR)

On Wednesday, the government approved a draft project ensuring rail passenger transport with Ukraine through the Pavlovo - Matovske Vojkovce border crossing. As Ukraine uses broad-gauge tracks, passengers from Kyiv will travel to the village of Haniska near Kosice, where buses will transport them to the nearby airport or railway station in the city. (TASR)

As Ukraine uses broad-gauge tracks, passengers from Kyiv will travel to the village of Haniska near Kosice, where buses will transport them to the nearby airport or railway station in the city. (TASR) On Wednesday, 8 Slovak MEPs sent a letter to the European Commission expressing concern the postponement of a decision on the prosecution of 31 suspects in the case of the death of Slovak national Jozef Chovanec by a Belgian court. "The investigation is in its sixth year, affecting not only Slovakia and Belgium, but also the European Union. We are aware of subsidiarity in matters of justice in national states, but at the same time we are convinced that European institutions must also care about justice in the EU," reads the letter. (TASR)

"The investigation is in its sixth year, affecting not only Slovakia and Belgium, but also the European Union. We are aware of subsidiarity in matters of justice in national states, but at the same time we are convinced that European institutions must also care about justice in the EU," reads the letter. (TASR) Krisztian Forro, chair of the Hungarian minority political party Aliancia - Szovetseg, will support Speaker of Parliament and Hlas chair Peter Pellegrini in the second round of the presidential election. He also cancelled a Thursday meeting with presidential hopeful and ex-foreign affairs minister Ivan Korcok. Forro failed to make it through the first round of the elections himself. Hungarian voters may be the deciding factor in the April 6 second round. (TASR)

He also cancelled a Thursday meeting with presidential hopeful and ex-foreign affairs minister Ivan Korcok. Forro failed to make it through the first round of the elections himself. Hungarian voters may be the deciding factor in the April 6 second round. (TASR) President Zuzana Caputova granted a conditional pardon to a 31-year-old man convicted of possession of marijuana for personal consumption. He served more than 5 years of a 10-year sentence in a maximum security prison. In Slovakia, sentences for possession of small quantities of marijuana can be harsher than for murder or corruption. (TASR)

WEATHER FOR THURSDAY: Cloudy to overcast skies, with showers or rain in many places, snow at higher altitudes. Daily temperatures between 10 C and 19 C expected. Windy, with level 1 and level 2 wind warnings issued for southwestern and northern Slovakia and the latter's mountainous regions, see the map of the districts. (SHMU)

MARCH 28 NAME DAY IN SLOVAKIA: Sona

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Imrich Imi Lichtenfeld was protector of Bratislavas Jewish community during WWII

Unveiling of the monument of Imrich Liftenfeld. (Source: Courtesy of the civic association FABRIKart)

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A monument to the creator of the world-famous Krav Maga self-defence system has been unveiled in Bratislava.

The life-size statue of Imrich Imi Lichtenfeld, a versatile athlete and protector of Bratislavas Jewish community in the lead up to and during WWII who grew up and spent most of his life in the city, was officially unveiled on Tuesday, March 26.

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Related article Creator of the Krav Maga self-defense system was from Bratislava Read more

Simon Chyla, a student of sculpture at the Academy of Fine Arts in Bratislava, who created the work, explained that the sphere Lichtenfeld holds in his hands symbolises fragility and vulnerability and is at first glance destined to be destroyed by the sharp shards coming up towards him.

But Imi comes in as the protector of the weak and not only defends the weak, but also bestows upon them a gift with which they will be able to defend themselves in the future, Chyla explained. This gift is none other than Krav Maga and serves all of humanity as an eternal inheritance from Imi.

The installation of the monument within the new Zuckermandel development was initiated by the civic association FABRIKart whose intention is to remind the public of significant personalities of Bratislava.

Related article

Related article Krav Maga, a self-defence training from Bratislava that foreigners can also learn Read more

The place where the monument stands today carries a deep symbolism of Imi's unwanted departure to Israel, said Andrej Aleksiev, chairman of the association, at the unveiling.

It will be displayed here for the next year before following the same journey Lichtenfeld made on the Pentcho steamer to Palestine. It will then return to Bratislava a year later.

Lichtenfeld was born on May 26, 1910 in Budapest, but spent his childhood and youth in Bratislava. He became a successful athlete and created the self-defense system Krav Maga (translated from Hebrew as close combat).

In June 2018, a plaque on Zidovska Street 1 was unveiled to commemorate him.
March 27, 2024  Cropster, a pioneering force in the coffee industry, is set to unveil an unparalleled experience at the Specialty Coffee Expo in Chicago on April 12, 2024. With a legacy spanning sixteen years, Cropster is once again poised to redefine industry standards with a bold new approach.

This year, Cropster is shaking up the convention scene by spotlighting its comprehensive product lineup: Roast, Cafe, and Commerce, alongside its B Corp Certification. Embracing sustainability as a cornerstone principle, the company is proud to announce that its booth will be constructed entirely from 100% recyclable materials, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.

In collaboration with esteemed partners MAV Coffee, Algrano, and Syra Coffee, Cropster is unveiling a groundbreaking Virtual Reality (VR) immersive experience. Attendees will embark on a sensory journey, delving deep into the world of coffee and collaboration in the industry like never before.

Furthermore, Cropster is pleased to announce its signature event, (Act)ionable Impact: What we do with what we know. Hosted by Metric Coffee, this enlightening discussion panel will feature industry leaders engaging in insightful dialogue on pressing industry topics. Listen to our esteemed panelists:

 Norbert Niederhauser (Cropster)

 Xavier Alexander (Metric Coffee)

 Tyler Youngblood (Azahar)

 Benjamin Paz (Beneficio San Vicente)

 Jose Rivera (Origin Coffee Lab)

 Moderated by Miranda Caldwell and Heather Kelley (The Coffee MBA)

Following the panel discussion, Cropster invites attendees to join in a party, co-sponsored by Roast Magazine, celebrating the commitment to driving positive change within the industry.

We are thrilled to introduce this transformative experience at Expo, aligned with our values and goals in attending global industry events and integrating new variables that generate impact said Andrea B. Pacas, Head of Marketing at Cropster. With our innovative VR experience and thought-provoking panel discussion, we aim to inspire positive action and foster meaningful connections within the coffee community.

Cropster, located at Booth 1051, will serve as a dynamic hub for networking, product showcases, customer interviews, and relationship-building opportunities. Attendees are encouraged to visit and engage with the Cropster team to discover the future of coffee innovation.

Dont miss your chance to be part of the experience! Join Cropster at the annual industry expo in Chicago on April 12, 2024, and experience the future of coffee firsthand. For media inquiries, please contact: Andrea B. Pacas

Head of Marketing andrea.pacas@cropster.com Sophie Strobel

Events Manager sophie.stroebel@cropster.com Paul Bartholomew

Partnerships Manager paul.bartholomew@cropster.com About Cropster

Cropster develops software for better coffee and is the worldwide leader in coffee-specific software. Cropster supports thousands of users throughout the supply chain every day with simple-to-use and flexible software tools that help to increase quality and productivity from origin to roast to cup. This press release was provided to Sprudge for Sprudge Press Releases. Interested in submitting a press release? Get in touch!
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240326/russias-rosatom-not-ruling-out-building-lithium-battery-plant-in-bolivia-1117577794.html

Russia's Rosatom Not Ruling Out Building Lithium Battery Plant in Bolivia

Russia's Rosatom Not Ruling Out Building Lithium Battery Plant in Bolivia

Sputnik International

Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom is not ruling out the possibility of building a lithium battery production plant in Bolivia in the future if a consensus is reached, Rosatoms First Deputy CEO for Development and International Business Kirill Komarov said on Tuesday.

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"If we find a consensus with our Bolivian partners and friends, it is even possible to build an [energy] storage units factory at some point on Bolivian territory, which could give Bolivia the opportunity to participate in the world history of the most extensive development of electric transportation," Komarov told a briefing during the 2024 Atomexpo International Forum. The Russian company is already involved in a lithium extraction project in Bolivia, he added. In June 2023, Rosatom's Uranium One Group international uranium mining holding and Bolivian lithium company Yacimientos de Litio Bolivianos signed a framework agreement on the construction of an industrial complex for the extraction and production of lithium carbonate in Bolivia. The building of the facility will start in early 2024, the Bolivian companys chief told Sputnik. Bolivia has some of the world's largest lithium reserves, located mainly in the salt flats of Uyuni, Coipasa and Pastos Grandes in the southwestern highlands. The Uyuni salt flats reserves are estimated at more than 21 million tonnes.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240326/russias-rosatom-says-france-s-korea-will-help-build-uzbekistans-nuclear-power-plant-1117577672.html

Russia's Rosatom Says France, S Korea Will Help Build Uzbekistan's Nuclear Power Plant

Russia's Rosatom Says France, S Korea Will Help Build Uzbekistan's Nuclear Power Plant

Sputnik International

French and South Korean companies will have an opportunity to participate in the Rosatom-led construction of Uzbekistan's first nuclear power plant, the Russian state-owned nuclear giant's deputy director, Kirill Komarov, said Tuesday.

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"We spent enough time to put together a unique set of project partners. It won't be an exclusively Russian project. The project will bring together engineers and companies from across the world  from France, South Korea and elsewhere," he told reporters. Komarov, who is in charge of Rosatom's development and international business, said on the sidelines of Atomexpo 2024 Forum near Sochi that Rosatom had a large pool of potential partners to choose from, which would make the nuclear project "truly international." The Uzbek power plant will be Central Asia's only operating nuclear facility. Tashkent signed a deal with Moscow in 2017 to build two VVER 1200 pressurized water reactors with a total installed capacity of 2,400 megawatt. It will be built in the southeastern Jizzakh Region, near Lake Tuzkon. Central Asia has been showing increased interest in nuclear power to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Kazakhstan's Energy Ministry proposed the construction of a new nuclear reactor last year that would replace the one shut down in 1999.

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United States 'Mocking' International Law, Creating 'World of the Jungle'

United States 'Mocking' International Law, Creating 'World of the Jungle'

Sputnik International

Journalist Elijah Magnier slammed the US for its disavowal of the Security Councils ceasefire resolution as well as criticizing Israeli conduct in Gaza. They know they are doing [war crimes], said the analyst.

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The Biden administration made waves on Monday when its delegation to the UN abstained during a Security Council vote calling for a ceasefire in the besieged Gaza Strip. The act was significant as the US has vetoed three previous resolutions with similar language.The passage of the statement raised hopes that violence could finally come to an end in the enclave as Israels nearly seven month-long operation has left over 32,000 Palestinians dead, most of them thought to be civilians.But the US immediately backpedaled in the hours since, insisting the Security Council resolution is "non-binding." The Biden administrations statements have caused analysts like Elijah Magnier to conclude the country is using the UN merely to manage its relationship with Israel, damaging the authority of international law and threatening world peace in the process. The journalist offered his thoughts during a discussion on Sputniks Fault Lines program Tuesday.It also requires a mechanism of verification of the ceasefire that has not been put in place, he noted. The Americans came out after the meeting of the Security Council with something so absurd by the US ambassador saying, 'well, this resolution is non-binding.'The statement was made by White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby during a press conference after the vote. The Biden administration has taken pains to insist the United States relationship with Israel hasnt changed in light of the UN resolution. But Magnier said such statements do great damage to the power and legitimacy of international law.If these laws are not implemented we live in the world of the jungle, we don't live in an institution and we don't live in international law.The veteran war correspondent, who has reported from Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Yugoslavia, said the erosion in international cooperation seriously threatens the worlds ability to peacefully resolve global conflicts."When the United Nations Security Council is told by a permanent member, i.e., the US, that this binding resolution is non-binding, then we have a serious problem worldwide," he added.Israeli newspaper The Times of Israel crowed about the United States obstruction in an article published on Monday, writing, "it demonstrates the highly limited influence the UN has when weighing into conflicts around the world."But Magnier said the passage of the resolution is a blow to Israel, which carefully attempts to manage its international reputation despite frequently criticizing the UN and disregarding its resolutions."The Israelis give a lot of importance for their image," said the reporter. "This is why when the United Nations is accusing Israel and asking for a ceasefire, that is a demand that the Israelis can ignore, but with consequences But nothing is going to force the Israelis to implement a resolution when they have already disregarded 64 other United Nations resolutions agreed [to] by the Americans, not abstained by the Americans, in relation to Palestine, and they have never implemented."The correspondent claimed the sadism and brutality of the Israeli military is unprecedented during his time as a journalist.Video has circulated of Israeli soldiers stripping men down to their underwear and rifling through womens panty drawers after forcing their way into Palestinian homes. Recent footage of the IDF firing on and killing three unarmed Gazan civilians drew widespread condemnation online.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240326/un-vote-unlikely-to-signal-change-in-us-policy-towards-israel-1117551594.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240326/biden-administration-slammed-for-pr-stunt-as-backing-of-israeli-killing-continues-1117550907.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/cancer-incidence-mortality-after-nato-bombing-of-yugoslavia-still-on-rise---serbian-health-minister-1117571639.html

Cancer Incidence, Mortality After NATO Bombing of Yugoslavia Still on Rise - Serbian Health Minister

Cancer Incidence, Mortality After NATO Bombing of Yugoslavia Still on Rise - Serbian Health Minister

Sputnik International

Cancer incidence and mortality rates after the 1999 NATO bombing of Yugoslavia are increasing even now, Serbian Health Minister Danica Grujicic has said in an interview with Sputnik.

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Grujicic is a renowned neurosurgeon who served as director of the Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia before being appointed health minister in 2022. Approximately 40,000 people in Serbia are diagnosed with cancer every year, and the Serbian Ministry of Health is currently working on software to more quickly and automatically register new patients, according to medics. He added that together with several Serbian doctors he authored a book titled "The truth about the aftermath of the 1999 bombing of Serbia" that compiles all available facts and statistics on the issue.Grujicic added that Russia's progress in cancer treatment and nuclear medicine could help Serbia."The combination of biological therapy and isotopes, which gives the greatest hope for the long life of our patients, has been the biggest discovery. I sincerely hope that as Russia is more advanced in this compared to other countries, we will have the opportunity to work closely with [Russian state nuclear corporation] Rosatom and learn from them," the minister added.On March 24, an official ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the NATO bombing of Yugoslavia was held in the southern Serbian city of Prokuplje. Top officials participated in the ceremony including Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik, Serbian Orthodox Church Patriarch Porfirije, members of the governments and parliaments from Serbia and Republika Srpska, and representatives of the clergy, army and police, numerous citizens.In 1999, an armed confrontation between Albanian separatists from the Kosovo Liberation Army and the Serbian army and police led to the bombing of Yugoslavia by NATO forces, which started on March 24 and lasted for over two months. The Serbian authorities say that about 2,500 people, including 89 children, were killed and about 12,500 people were injured in the bombings. Vucic said that the use of depleted uranium weapons caused an increase in the number of cancer patients in the country.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/china-wins-over-australia-in-wto-trade-dispute-on-steel-tariffs-1117583512.html

China Wins Over Australia in WTO Trade Dispute on Steel Tariffs

China Wins Over Australia in WTO Trade Dispute on Steel Tariffs

Sputnik International

The verdict by the WTO panel that settled the Beijing-Canberra steel trade war suggests that Australia's Anti-Doping Commission contravened certain stipulations within the anti-dumping agreement.

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economy

newsfeed

china

chinese ministry of commerce

beijing

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world trade organization (wto)

sputnik

tom harper

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The Australian government has conceded defeat to China at the World Trade Organization (WTO) after a three-year standoff over tariffs on steel products.Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell in a statement on Wednesday that Consistent with Australia's support for the rules-based trading system, the Australian Government accepts the ruling of the WTO panel.""Australia will engage with China and take steps to implement the panel's findings, Farrell stated. Australia remains committed to a fully functioning WTO dispute settlement system so that the rights and obligations of all WTO members can be enforced.Tuesday's WTO panel ruling on the case in Geneva, Switzerland, found that Australias Anti-Dumping Commission had acted inconsistently with articles of the anti-dumping agreement.Beijing filed a complaint with the WTO in June 2021 against Australia's imposition of additional duties on steel products imported from China, such as train wheels, stainless steel sinks and wind turbine towers, which accounted for a trade value of A$62 million (US$40.4 million) in 2022.The trade tariff dispute between Beijing and Canberra began in 2020. China warned of economic consequences after Australia's then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison joined US-led demands, in late April of that year, for an inquiry into the origins of COVID-19 Washington insisted begun in Wuhan.In May 2020, the Chinese government slapped major tariffs on Australian barley exports, including a 73.6 percent anti-dumping tariff and a 6.9 percent anti-subsidy tariff, following a 16-month investigation into alleged dumping activities by Australia.Later, in late November 2020, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced tariffs reaching up to 212.1 percent on Australian wine imports after a probe into purported dumping practices which was requested by Chinese winemakers."One of the implications is that it's very much reliant on Chinese trade, so it's a contradiction here," Harper added "On the one hand, they are reliant on China for economics, but on the other for political and security factors, they are aligned with the United States.The 2020 tariffs inflicted an estimated cost of AU$20 billion ($13 billion) on the Australian economy. The election of current Australian PM Anthony Albanese in 2022 was followed by improved Beijing-Canberra ties, with China gradually lifting trade sanctions on Australian exports, including barley, timber and coal. But tariffs on certain items, such as abattoirs, rock lobster and wine are still in place.In April 2023, Australia moved to address trade disputes with China by suspending a complaint lodged with the WTO to regain access for Australian barley into the Chinese market. They also halted another dispute regarding sanctions on Australian wine, valued at around AU$1.1 billion ($720 million). These actions were perceived as efforts by the Australian government to improve diplomatic ties with Beijing.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20210619/australia-to-complain-to-wto-about-chinas-tariffs-on-australian-wine-trade-minister-says-1083187507.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/claims-about-russias-alleged-plan-to-attack-europe-after-ukraine-are-nonsense---putin-1117592612.html

Putin Dismisses 'Nonsense' Claims of Alleged Russian Plan to Attack Europe After Ukraine

Putin Dismisses 'Nonsense' Claims of Alleged Russian Plan to Attack Europe After Ukraine

Sputnik International

Statements about alleged plans of Russia to attack Europe after Ukraine are nonsense, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said.

2024-03-27T22:11+0000

2024-03-27T22:11+0000

2024-03-28T10:45+0000

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During a working visit to the Russian town of Torzhok in the Tver Region on Wednesday, Putin met with military pilots. The president added that satellites of the United States are "afraid of big and strong Russia," but they do it for nothing as Russia has "no aggressive intentions against these states." Putin stressed that he was certain that the Russian Armed Forces would fulfill their assigned objectives.The head of state spoke with military pilots during his working trip. One of them told Putin that the Russian Armed Forces would fulfill any assigned task.I have no doubt, Putin replied.Representatives of all the peoples of Russia show their best on the battlefield, the president said.Russia Never Moved to NATO Borders, But They Moved CloserIt was not Russia that moved to the borders of NATO countries, it is them who are getting closer, and Russia is just protecting its people, the president said.Russia, in the course of the special military operation in Ukraine, is protecting people on its historical territories, and it would not have happened if a security system in Europe had been created after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the president clarified."What we do in the course of the special military operation is that we are protecting our people who live on our historical territories," Putin said.Russia is a multiethnic and multifaith country, everyone should be treated with respect, the president stressed.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/supplies-of-f-16-fighter-jets-to-ukraine-will-not-change-situation-on-battlefield---putin-1117592957.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240309/75-years-of-nato-expansion-in-one-pic-1117220942.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/how-yugoslavia-shot-us-f-117-stealth-bomber-program-down-into-early-retirement-1117588928.html

How Yugoslavia Shot US F-117 Stealth Bomber Program Down Into Early Retirement

How Yugoslavia Shot US F-117 Stealth Bomber Program Down Into Early Retirement

Sputnik International

Sunday marked the 25th anniversary of the start of NATOs 78-day campaign of aerial aggression against Yugoslavia. Just three days in, the Yugoslav Army shot down a $111 million F-117 Nighthawk using a vintage Soviet missile. Sputnik asked former US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Karen Kwiatkowski how such a thing could happen.

2024-03-27T19:14+0000

2024-03-27T19:14+0000

2024-03-27T19:27+0000

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On March 27, 1999, a Yugoslav air defense unit downed a US Air Force Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk attack aircraft using a Soviet-made S-125 Neva (NATO reporting name SA-3 Goa) SAM, making history and marking the first-ever destruction of a stealth aircraft in combat.When first unveiled in the 1980s, the Pentagon thought they had gotten their hands on a nearly invincible invisible aircraft, with the $111 million F-117 featuring a futuristic and high-tech radar-wave scattering paint job, unique angular shape and special radar-resistant coating. Among other things, the jet was meant to penetrate deep into the USSRs air defenses and carry out nuclear strikes if the Cold War ever went hot. In the popular imagination, US 80s stealth technology, including the F-117 and the Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit, were presented as something akin to superweapons - capable of winning a war against Moscow single-handedly.That sense of smug superiority at the Pentagon evaporated overnight twenty-five years ago, when the 3rd Battery of the 250th Missile Brigade of the Yugoslav Air Defense Forces commanded by Colonel Zoltan Dani took up duty near Buanovci, Serbia, Yugoslavia.Dani and his men monitored the F-117 during flight using meter-range radar, which proved capable of detecting the stealth aircraft more easily than expected. It was only when the aircraft was 15 meters away that I commanded to lock on the target and ordered Senad Muminovich, the gunner, to press the launch button, and the missile was fired, Dani recalled in an interview with Sputnik in 2019.The footage of Buanovci residents dancing on the wings of the downed aircraft while chanting Sorry, we didnt know it was invisible spread like wildfire across the world and became a major blow for the NATO coalition, giving Yugoslavs the strength to continue resisting the Wests aggression.Over 20 years later, in December 2020, Lieutenant Colonel Charlie Hainline, another F-117 pilot who took part in the bombing of Yugoslavia, revealed that a second F-117 piloted by his wingman had been hit by Yugoslav anti-aircraft fire, taking serious damage but managing to limp back to base.ShockI vaguely recall this as being a shock  it was the premier stealth aircraft of the day, retired US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and former senior DoD analyst Karen Kwiatkowski told Sputnik, recalling the March 27, 1999 incident.The S-125s capabilities aside, Kwiatkowski said the NATO operations lax security contributed to the F-117s destruction, as did the US Air Forces complacency in comparing the high-tech F-117 and its newer stealth technology with the enemy capabilities. This complacency came from looking at the war (and the world) purely from a technological level. After all, most Americans and those in the military believed that it was solely and mainly a recognition of US military and technological superiority that caused the dissolution of the Soviet Union.Yugoslavia itself was viewed as a safe war against a weak enemy, with the aerial aggression against it meant to demonstrate US values rather than fighting to preserve or win anything, the Air Force vet said.The March 27, 1999 incident over Buanovci debunked the myth of invincible stealth technology sold to the US government by Lockheed, and forced the US and other major air powers to continue to refine the tech, while ramping up operational security in the US Air Force, Kwiatkowski said.Otherwise, unfortunately, the decades since the incident have changed little in the US approach to using its military establishment around the world, beyond millions of dead people in other countries, the observer summed up.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20201202/former-stealth-fighter-pilot-confirms-yugoslavs-hit-second-us-f-117-during-1999-war-1081339775.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/cancer-incidence-mortality-after-nato-bombing-of-yugoslavia-still-on-rise---serbian-health-minister-1117571639.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240324/natos-bombing-of-yugoslavia-sulmination-of-negligence-of-international-law-1117529198.html

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why was the f-117 retired, how did yugoslavia shoot down a stealth bomber, did yugoslavia shoot down a stealth bomber
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/humbling-a-goliath-us-led-no-fail-mission-against-the-houthis-is-failing-1117586684.html

Humbling a Goliath: US-Led No-Fail Mission Against the Houthis is Failing

Humbling a Goliath: US-Led No-Fail Mission Against the Houthis is Failing

Sputnik International

The US established a maritime coalition of the willing in the Red Sea in December 2023 and began bombing Yemen in January in response to the Houthis bid to shut down Israeli-affiliated commercial traffic through the waterway in solidarity with Palestine. The Houthis have vowed to continue their operations until the carnage in Gaza stops.

2024-03-27T17:46+0000

2024-03-27T17:46+0000

2024-03-27T17:46+0000

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The US-led military campaign in the Red Sea which the Pentagon wanted to make into a no-fail mission has turned into a modern-day David vs. Goliath PR disaster, with the powerful American naval and air might arrayed against the Houthis proving unable to stop militia attacks or reopen the Red Sea to shipping, US business media has reported.The gray F/A-18 fighter jets hurtled one by one from the deck of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower into the heat of the Red Sea morning, scrambling to counter the latest attack drone launched by the Houthis. The $56 million aircraft were part of a coalition operation that nullified the attack, returning hours later as they have almost daily for the last several months, Bloomberg wrote in a report Wednesday highlighting the difficulties the West has faced trying to stop Ansar Allah.Rear Admiral Marc Miguez, commander of USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier-led American armada operating in the Red Sea, said that while the US has reduced some of the Houthis missile and drone capability through strikes, theres no way to predict when the fleets job in the region will be done, since estimates on Houthi missile numbers are kind of a black hole for the US intelligence-wise.Shipping firms and companies impacted by the Red Sea crisis are even less optimistic.A Western official predicted that the Houthis will be able to continue their blockade at its current intensity for months to come. Others accused the Houthis of getting help from outside via Iran, including everything from weapons components to sea mine-laying specialists. Iran has categorically denied providing any military or weapons assistance to the Houthis.[The Houthis] dont create inertial navigation systems. They dont create medium-range ballistic missile engines. They dont create the stage separations on these medium-range ballistic missiles or the anti-ship cruise missiles, US Central Command commander Gen. Michael Kurilla told a Senate hearing earlier this month, accusing Ansar Allah of getting help from outside, and ignoring the vast stocks of Soviet-era ballistic, cruise and air defense missile technologies which the Houthis have inherited and upgraded since 2014.Unable to stop the Houthis at sea, Western officials have rejected any talk of a ground operation against the militia, warning that if the group escalates its targeting of Western warships, the coalition may respond by assassinating Houthi leaders.An anonymous US military official told Bloomberg that the US is on the wrong side of the cost curve in the Red Sea campaign, whose economic costs are starting to add up.The Houthis campaign of ship seizures, missile and drone attacks have caused commercial traffic through the southern Red Sea to drop by about 70 percent in March compared to early December, with container shipping reportedly down 90 percent, gas tanker flow halting almost completely, and Israels main Red Sea port forced to lay off half of its workforce.Ansar Allah began its partial blockade of the Red Sea in November with the seizure of the Galaxy Leader, an Israeli billionaire-owned ro-ro car carrier, expanding operations to target not only Israeli, but US and British commercial vessels and warships after the pair of nations began a campaign of airstrikes against Yemen in January. Last month, the militia warned European countries setting up their own maritime security operations in the Red Sea that any idiocy you commit will affect your ships and navigation. Major European shipping companies including Maersk has said they would continue to avoid the Red Sea in spite of the EUs security mission.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240323/ship-catches-fire-off-yemen-coast-after-projectile-strike---uk-maritime-trade-authority-1117513615.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240319/us-flagged-vessels-in-middle-east-advised-to-turn-off-transponders-amid-houthi-threat-1117421600.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/netherlands-dispatches-frigate-to-join-security-missions-in-red-sea---defense-minister-1117585228.html

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why can't us beat the houthis, what is asymmetric warfare, why can't houthis be beaten, what will us do if it can't beat the houthis
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/hungary-to-extend-ban-on-ukrainian-grain-imports-unless-duties-reintroduced-1117572042.html

Hungary to Extend Ban on Ukrainian Grain Imports Unless Duties Reintroduced

Hungary to Extend Ban on Ukrainian Grain Imports Unless Duties Reintroduced

Sputnik International

Hungary will extend the ban on imports of Ukrainian agricultural products at the national level if Brussels does not exclude grain and oilseed products from the list of products subject to duty-free imports to the European Union, Hungarian Agriculture Minister Istvan Nagy said.

2024-03-27T03:55+0000

2024-03-27T03:55+0000

2024-03-27T03:55+0000

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"In the coming days, a decree on the extension of the autonomous trade liberalization measure will pass ... If the issue of grains and oilseeds is not resolved in the decree, the Hungarian government will still leave the border closed at the national level and will not let Ukrainian agricultural products into Hungary because we owe so much to the Hungarian farming community," the minister said in a video message on Tuesday aired by Hungarian broadcaster M1. He added that Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi attended a meeting of the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council on Tuesday and said that 17 million tonnes of grain had been exported from Ukraine through the Black Sea ports. Nagy called in such a case for a return to Ukraine's traditional agricultural products markets in the Middle East in Asia and Africa and for banning duty-free import of Ukrainian goods to the EU. The Hungarian minister also welcomed the adoption by the Council of simplified production rules for European producers of agricultural products and the reduction of the bureaucratic burden on them. Earlier in March, the European Parliament and the European Council reached an agreement to extend the temporary suspension of duties on exports of Ukrainian agricultural products to the EU until June 5, 2025. In March 2023, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia asked the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to address the crisis caused by the inflow of Ukrainian grain, arguing that cheap imports harm local producers. In May, the European Commission banned the sale of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed in the said five countries until June 5, while the ban was later extended to September 15. The European Commission in September 2023 decided against extending the ban. Following the decision, Slovakia, Hungary and Poland announced that they were extending the ban unilaterally. In particular, Hungary extended the ban at the national level, and the list of products banned for import included 24 products.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240211/polish-farmers-spill-ukrainian-grain-in-border-row-1116734653.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/ireland-to-join-south-africas-case-against-israel-at-icj-1117588275.html

Ireland to Join South Africa's Case Against Israel at ICJ

Ireland to Join South Africa's Case Against Israel at ICJ

Sputnik International

Dublin will join South Africa's case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over alleged genocide in the Gaza Strip, the Irish Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

2024-03-27T18:18+0000

2024-03-27T18:18+0000

2024-03-27T18:18+0000

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In January, the ICJ ruled on provisional measures in South Africa's case against Israel over alleged genocide in the Gaza Strip. The court ordered Israel to take urgent measures to prevent acts of genocide and ensure the flow of humanitarian aid to the enclave. At the same time, the ICJ did not order an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. It is likely to take several months for Ireland to join the lawsuit, the statement said. Martin has instructed officials to start work on the process. Ireland will be in close contact with other partners who have also announced their intention to join South Africa in its genocide case, according to the statement. "It is for the Court to determine whether genocide is being committed. But I want to be clear in reiterating what I have said many times in the last few months; what we saw on 7 October in Israel, and what we are seeing in Gaza now, represents the blatant violation of international humanitarian law on a mass scale," the foreign minister was quoted as saying in the statement.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/us-israel-rift-widens-amid-tense-back-and-forth-over-gaza-war-1117575379.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/is-biden-administration-slow-rolling-assange-case-to-keep-journalist-in-limbo-1117573772.html

Is Biden Administration Slow Rolling Assange Case to Keep Journalist in Limbo?

Is Biden Administration Slow Rolling Assange Case to Keep Journalist in Limbo?

Sputnik International

Having been proven incompetent on any number of issues, the White House seeks to delay a decision on the Wikileaks founders fate.

2024-03-27T04:27+0000

2024-03-27T04:27+0000

2024-03-27T17:28+0000

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Journalist Julian Assanges long-running legal saga took another unexpected turn Tuesday when the UKs High Court of Justice ruled the Wikileaks founder would be granted a temporary reprieve from his expected extradition to the United States.The self-described transparency advocate has been effectively imprisoned in London for 12 years, first in the UKs Ecuadorian embassy where he was granted refuge and then in Belmarsh Prison, a notorious high-security facility often called Britains Guantanamo Bay. Assange, an Australian citizen, is wanted by the United States for publishing leaked government documents including secret diplomatic cables and video evidence of US war crimes in Iraq.Observers have warned the prosecution of Assange would create a chilling effect for free speech in the West, setting the precedent the US can extradite and convict journalists worldwide merely for publishing leaked material. US President Joe Biden, undaunted, has continued efforts by his predecessors to try the activist in court despite his increasingly deteriorating health condition after years of confinement.Wilmer Leon, host of Sputniks The Critical Hour program, spoke to a series of guests Tuesday to assess the latest development in the case.It's a limited appeal, noted Steve Poikonen, a national organizer for the group Action for Assange. They're not allowed to introduce some evidence that shows that the CIA was plotting to kidnap and possibly murder Assange while he was under protective custody of the Ecuadorian embassy. They have reduced the amount of arguments they can introduce at the appeal.Assanges legal team was also barred from challenging his extradition on the grounds it is being conducted for political purposes. The UKs extradition treaty with the US prohibits the exchange of someone undergoing political persecution.The United States, along with already trying to kidnap and kill the guy, or at least talking about kidnaping and killing him  thank you, President Trump and Mike Pompeo  has said that there could be additional charges added once he gets here that could result in 175 years in prison and/or the death penalty, noted Leon. By the way, if you are subjected to 175 years in prison without the possibility of parole, that is a fact that you will die in prison.Kavanagh also addressed rumors published by Consortium News that Assange may be offered a plea deal that would keep him out of prison if he pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of mishandling classified documents. The journalist speculated the Biden administration may be trying to finally find a way out of the controversial issue.You've got to just think that the British court is kind of fundamentally consulting with the Americans about how to play this game and drag it out as much as they can, he said. This is a horrible thing that this is still going on. He's being tortured. There's no reason for him to be in solitary confinement. He's been convicted of no crime, and he's being treated like a serial killer. It's disgraceful.Analyst Caleb Maupin suggested various players in the long-running saga are merely looking to pass the buck, not wanting to be held responsible for Assanges fate as his health continues to decline.I'm forced to think about some of the police brutality cases I worked on in Cleveland when I was an activist, said Maupin. And there were many examples where somebody looks at a case, a judge or prosecutor. They think I don't want to be the one to have my fingerprints on it. I don't want to be the one to do this.And I look at how they're just kind of prolonging the legal proceedings and it seems like there's a lot of people in the British legal system that really don't want to have their fingerprints on whatever happens to Julian Assange, he concluded. They're trying to do everything they can to not be the one responsible for what ultimately occurs.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240326/uk-court-ruling-grants-assange-reprieve-and-strong-chance-to-appeal-extradition-1117567387.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20221213/assange-denied-permission-to-virtually-partake-in-sakharov-prize-award-wikileaks-1105413722.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240326/moscow-on-london-courts-decision-on-assange-uk-justice-system-becomes-laughing-stock-1117566511.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/local-alternative-authorities-must-be-created-to-govern-gaza---israeli-defense-minister-1117575220.html

Local Alternative Authorities Must Be Created to Govern Gaza - Israeli Defense Minister

Local Alternative Authorities Must Be Created to Govern Gaza - Israeli Defense Minister

Sputnik International

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said during a meeting with US officials in Washington that once the military actions cease in the Gaza Strip, the enclave will be governed neither by Israel nor by Palestinian movement Hamas, and that a local alternative must be built, Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported on Wednesday.

2024-03-27T06:06+0000

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One of the goals of his visit was "to emphasize the importance of [Israeli-US] relations" as Israel shares "100 percent of the values and 99 percent of the interests with the United States," Gallant was quoted as saying. Another topic discussed was "the importance of maintaining Israel's qualitative military edge in the region  including air capabilities and essential platforms," the Israeli official added. On Sunday, Gallant left for an official visit to the United States at the invitation of his US counterpart, Lloyd Austin, to meet with senior US officials. On October 7, 2023, Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel and breached the border, attacking both civilian neighborhoods and military bases. As a result, over 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others abducted. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza, and started a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. Over 32,400 people have been killed so far in the Gaza Strip, local authorities said. More than 100 hostages are still believed to be held by Hamas in Gaza.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240326/two-week-gaza-ceasefire-not-enough-to-meet-humanitarian-needs---doctors-without-borders-1117562810.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/nato-mulls-shooting-down-missiles-straying-close-to-its-borders---report-1117576661.html

NATO Mulls 'Shooting Down' Missiles Straying Close to Its Borders - Report

NATO Mulls 'Shooting Down' Missiles Straying Close to Its Borders - Report

Sputnik International

NATO members are considering the possibility of shooting down missiles that fly in close proximity to the alliance's borders, said Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Andrzej Szejna.

2024-03-27T11:00+0000

2024-03-27T11:00+0000

2024-03-27T11:00+0000

world

nato

poland

ukraine

russia

polish foreign ministry

wladyslaw kosiniak-kamysz

cruise missiles

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NATO members are reportedly considering the possibility of shooting down missiles that fly in close proximity to the alliance's borders.Various concepts are being analyzed within NATO, including for such missiles to be shot down when they are very close to a NATO members border," Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Andrzej Szejna stated, speaking on the radio station RMF24.He noted, however, that this would have to happen with the consent of the Ukrainian side, and taking into account the international consequences, as then NATO missiles would be targeting Russian missiles outside the territory of the alliance.On Sunday, the Polish Armed Forces Operational Command in a statement said that there was a violation of Polish airspace at 4:23 a.m. (03:23 GMT) by a Russian cruise missile. The missile was said to have breached the country's airspace near the village of Oserdow, close to the Ukraine border, and remained in flight there for 39 seconds.However, there was no evidence offered in the text to support these claims.According to Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, the missile would have been shot down had there been any signs that this object was heading for a certain target located on the territory of the Republic (of Poland). Poland scrambled its fighter jets over the incident.Oserdow is located in Lublin province in the southeastern part of the country, which borders the Volyn and Lvov regions of Ukraine.Russian Ambassador to Poland Sergey Andreev later told Sputnik that he skipped a meeting at the Polish Foreign Ministry over the "missile incident" because Warsaw had failed to present any evidence on the issue.After being summoned to the Polish Foreign Ministry to meet with one of the deputy ministers, Andreev asked if the Polish side intended to provide Russia with any evidence of the allegations. However, as he did not receive an answer from the Polish side, Andreev decided not to attend the meeting.At the end of last year, Poland announced a similar incident. The Polish military claimed that a missile belonging to Russia performed a maneuver in Polish airspace and then returned to Ukraine. While Chief of the Polish General Staff Wieslaw Kukula told reporters that according to Polish radar control systems the missile belonged to Russia, Moscow's Ambassador to Warsaw Sergey Andreev said that Poland had not provided evidence to substantiate the claims.After a missile crashed on Polish territory in an incident on November 15, 2022, Polish investigators later came to the conclusion that it was a stray Ukrainian anti-air projectile.Meanwhile, it is worth noting that ever since the Ukraine conflict intensified, there has also been a surge in incidents involving NATO aircraft flying near Russia's maritime borders. Warships from the United States and other NATO countries have also increased provocative forays into the Black Sea. The alleged Sunday incident came as Russia was carrying out strikes targeting Ukraine's military-industrial complex, energy facilities, railway junctions, and ammunition depots between March 16 and 22 in response to the shelling of its territory and attempts to break through and seize Russian border settlements, according to Russia's Ministry of Defense. The Russian Aerospace Forces subsequently carried out high-precision missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian power facilities on March 24. The combined strike with long-range airborne precision weapons and unmanned aerial vehicles targeted electric power facilities, gas production facilities, and assembly and testing sites for unmanned boats," the MoD said.At the same time, Russian air defenses destroyed 172 Ukrainian drones, 11 Storm Shadow cruise missiles, and three Neptun anti-ship missiles, as well as 22 multiple launch rocket system shells and other targets, the military said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240325/russian-ambassador-to-poland-says-skips-meeting-on-missile-incident-due-to-evidence-lack-1117543223.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240324/russian-forces-carry-out-strike-against-ukrainian-energy-facilities-1117524883.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240319/western-delusions-shattered-putins-firm-stance-on-ukraine-highlights-natos-impotence-1117418398.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/netherlands-dispatches-frigate-to-join-security-missions-in-red-sea---defense-minister-1117585228.html

Netherlands Dispatches Frigate to Join Security Missions in Red Sea - Defense Minister

Netherlands Dispatches Frigate to Join Security Missions in Red Sea - Defense Minister

Sputnik International

A Dutch frigate has arrived in the Red Sea to join maritime missions to protect shipping from Houthi attacks, Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren said on Wednesday.

2024-03-27T15:09+0000

2024-03-27T15:09+0000

2024-03-27T15:09+0000

military

red sea crisis

red sea

netherlands

yemen

houthi

sputnik

european union (eu)

palestine-israel conflict

gaza strip

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"HNLMS Tromp has arrived in the Red Sea. Together with partners she will contribute to maritime security by protecting ships from Houthi attacks in the region. I wish the crew fair winds and following seas in this important operation," Ollongren said on X. The frigate is taking part in Operation Prosperity Guardian led by the United States and the EU's Aspides maritime mission that aim to ensure security and free navigation in the region, the Dutch Defense Ministry said earlier in the day. The ship's deployment in the Red Sea will last approximately 25 days. The Dutch navy could also deploy its Karel Doorman multi-purpose ship in the region from the end of April to the end of August, the ministry's statement said. On Tuesday, Houthi political office member Hezam al-Asad told Sputnik that the Houthis in Yemen were ready to attack ships belonging to any country if they were heading to Israeli ports.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240322/houthis-use-mystery-improved-missile-to-pierce-israels-powerful-air-defenses-1117490582.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/poland-suspends-military-exercises-using-explosives-after-death-of-fifth-soldier-1117578769.html

Poland Suspends Military Exercises Using Explosives After Death of Fifth Soldier

Poland Suspends Military Exercises Using Explosives After Death of Fifth Soldier

Sputnik International

The Polish Defense Ministry has issued an order to suspend all military exercises involving the use of explosives and military equipment on the territory of the country due to the death of a special forces soldier during mountain training in the Tatra Mountains, the Defense Ministry said in a statement.

2024-03-27T10:44+0000

2024-03-27T10:44+0000

2024-03-27T10:44+0000

military

poland

lithuania

latvia

polish defense ministry

defense ministry

nato

drills

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The Polish Defense Ministry issued an order on March 26 to suspend military exercises involving explosives and warfare agents nationwide in order to review procedures and ensure safety conditions. The order was posted on the ministry's website.The decision was made following the death of a serviceman during training exercises in the Tatra Mountains. The ministry has launched an investigation into the circumstances behind the special forces soldier's death.The incident in the Tatras became the fifth fatality during military exercises held in March. On March 5, two servicemen were killed when an infantry fighting vehicle ran them over on the training grounds of the Armored Forces Training Center. On March 25, two sappers died as a result of a TNT charge detonating at a training range in the Silesian Voivodeship.The Polish Ministry of Defense has clarified that the suspension of the exercises will not impact the activities of the units preparing for foreign missions and operations, as well as the training of Ukrainian soldiers.Last week, Poland's "Northeast" multinational division held exercises near the Russian border. The military unit included four NATO combat battalion groups deployed in Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia as part of the Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP).

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240226/nato-troops-to-cross-polands-vistula-river-as-part-of-dragon-24-drills-1116998048.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/russia-deems-us-position-on-probe-into-crocus-terrorist-attack-as-biased---foreign-ministry-1117572704.html

Russia Deems US Position on Probe Into Crocus Terrorist Attack as 'Biased' - Foreign Ministry

Russia Deems US Position on Probe Into Crocus Terrorist Attack as 'Biased' - Foreign Ministry

Sputnik International

Russia considers the position of the United States on the investigation into the terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue near Moscow as "biased," Washington is trying to "put Ukraine out of harm's way," Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Sputnik.

2024-03-27T03:22+0000

2024-03-27T03:22+0000

2024-03-27T03:30+0000

maria zakharova

russia

ukraine

russian federal security service (fsb)

foreign ministry

moscow

crocus city hall

moscow concert hall attack

world

terrorist attack

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On Tuesday, Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) Director Alexander Bortnikov said the first information received from suspects in the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack proved a Ukrainian trace. He added that, while radical Islamists had prepared the terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall, the Ukrainian special forces were involved. The Western intelligence and Ukraine needed the attack to create panic in Russian society, Bortnikov also said, adding that the mastermind behind the terrorist attack has not been identified yet. A shooting occurred last Friday in the Crocus City Hall concert venue in the city of Krasnogorsk, just outside Moscow, followed by a massive fire. A Sputnik correspondent who witnessed the attack reported that a number of gunmen in camouflage broke into the music hall, shooting people point-blank and throwing incendiary bombs. The Russian Investigative Committee said that at least 139 people were killed as a result of the terrorist attack. White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby said last Friday that there were no indications pointing to the involvement of Ukraine or Ukrainian nationals in the attack on the Crocus City Hall.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/these-arent-real-muslims-moscow-terrorists-were-mercenaries-engaged-in-political-act---analyst-1117571222.html

russia

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/russia-to-adjust-arctic-strategy-in-line-with-changed-intl-context-1117581078.html

Russia to Adjust Arctic Strategy in Line With Changed Int'l Context

Russia to Adjust Arctic Strategy in Line With Changed Int'l Context

Sputnik International

Russia will adjust its Arctic development strategy through 2035 in the wake of the changed international context and its relations with the near-Arctic and Arctic nations, the Russian Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East and Arctic said on Wednesday.

2024-03-27T11:52+0000

2024-03-27T11:52+0000

2024-03-27T11:52+0000

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russia

arctic council

strategy

alexei chekunkov

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"The basic documents for Arctic development were adopted from 2020-2021. We understand that life has changed, that there is a different international context, a different context of cooperation among the near-Arctic and Arctic states," the head of the ministry, Alexei Chekunkov, said at a meeting with Russia's lower house Far East and Arctic development committee. Russia's Arctic development strategy was signed by President Vladimir Putin in October 2020. The document sets the main courses, goals and measures for developing the Arctic region as well as mechanisms, expected results and stages of its implementation, which include three periods: from 2020-2024, 2025-2030 and 2031-2035. In recent years, Russia has on many occasions expressed its concerns about increased NATO military activities in the Arctic, saying that there was a risk of unintended clashes in the region. Moscow has also allowed for the possibility of withdrawing from the Arctic Council if its activities do not meet Russia's interests. The Arctic Council is an intergovernmental forum that addresses challenges faced by the nations and indigenous peoples of the region. There are eight members of the council  Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the United States. In March 2022, after the beginning of the Russian military operation in Ukraine, all members of the council aside from Russia announced that they would not participate in the meetings held under the Russian chairmanship. In June 2022, the seven countries agreed to partially renew their participation in the projects Russia is not involved in, with Moscow calling their decision "illegitimate." In May 2023, the chairmanship of the council passed from Russia to Norway. In February 2024, the Russian Foreign Ministry told Sputnik that Moscow had temporarily stopped paying annual contributions to the Arctic Council "until practical work in this format is resumed with the participation of all council members."

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240308/first-methanol-fueled-arctic-ships-may-appear-in-russia-by-2030-1117210946.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/russian-foreign-ministry-says-interpol-being-dragged-into-wests-political-game-1117583395.html

Russian Foreign Ministry Says Interpol Being Dragged Into West's Political Game

Russian Foreign Ministry Says Interpol Being Dragged Into West's Political Game

Sputnik International

The International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) in being dragged into the West's political game, the goal of which is to disconnect Russia from the organization's information resources, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday.

2024-03-27T13:47+0000

2024-03-27T13:47+0000

2024-03-27T13:47+0000

world

russian foreign ministry

interpol

moscow

maria zakharova

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Interpol Secretary General Jurgen Stock said on Saturday the the international organization is ready to assist the Russian authorities in the investigation into the terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue. Moscow certainly supports the recent statement of Jurgen Stock, but Interpol needs to do something about its statement from 2022, the diplomat added. "These measures once again confirm that Interpol is persistently being dragged by the West into a political game, the main purpose of which is to disconnect Russia from Interpol's information resources and further exclude it from the organization," Zakharova told a briefing.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230118/interpol-secretary-general-praises-arrest-of-italian-mafia-leader-as-great-success-1106464381.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/russias-state-duma-presses-western-nations-to-probe-terrorism-financing-1117580579.html

Russia's State Duma Presses Western Nations to Probe Terrorism Financing

Russia's State Duma Presses Western Nations to Probe Terrorism Financing

Sputnik International

The State Duma, the nation's lower house of parliament, has urged Western countries to investigate the funding of terrorist attacks targeting Russia.

2024-03-27T13:23+0000

2024-03-27T13:23+0000

2024-03-27T13:23+0000

russia

yana lantratova

russia

nato

moscow concert hall attack

alexander dugin

duma

state duma

ukraine

sergey lavrov

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Members of the State Duma and several public figures have collectively sent a letter to law enforcement agencies in Russia, Germany, Cyprus, the United States, and France, urging them to investigate the organization and financing of terrorist attacks by the US, NATO member states, and Ukrainian intelligence services against Russia. As follows from the letter published by State Duma MP Yana Lantratova (A Just Russia  For Truth) on her Telegram channel, it was also signed by State Duma MPs Nikolai Kharitonov (Communist Party), Andrey Krasov (United Russia), philosopher Alexander Dugin, and former Verkhovna Rada MP Andrey Derkach. The letter was addressed to the Russian Prosecutor General's Office, the Investigative Committee of Russia, the Federal Ministry of Justice of Germany, the US Department of Justice, and to the authorities of Cyprus, and France. The letter lists terrorist acts committed in recent years, including the sabotage of Nord Stream-1 and Nord Stream-2 gas pipeline, the murder of political analyst and publicist Darya Dugina, journalists Vladlen Tatarsky and Gonzalo Lira, the assassination attempt on writer Zakhar Prilepin, and others. "The methods used by the United States, NATO, the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, and now possibly involving ISIS*, to achieve their goals are not only a direct threat to millions of people but also an undisguised attack on human rights," emphasized Lantratova. According to her, the legislator and the other authors of the letter are convinced that all those involved in terrorism must be held accountable for their actions, including making payments to the affected party, blocking accounts and freezing the assets of terrorists, as well as directly confiscating their property. Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Moscow is unlikely to require Western assistance in investigating the terrorist attack against "Crocus City Hall". It appears that the investigation may be biased towards promoting a theory that Ukraine is not involved in the massacre, which would align more closely with Western interests.* ISIS (also known as ISIL/IS/Islamic State) is a terrorist organization banned in Russia and many other countries.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240325/in-bed-with-jihadists-and-neo-nazis-why-crocus-city-hall-terror-attack-cast-slur-upon-west-1117544799.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240325/putin-says-we-know-that-terrorist-attack-in-crocus-was-carried-out-by-radical-islamists-1117546160.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/swedens-military-integration-into-nato-to-be-completed-by-end-of-april---allied-command-1117574141.html

Sweden's Military Integration Into NATO to Be Completed by End of April - Allied Command

Sweden's Military Integration Into NATO to Be Completed by End of April - Allied Command

Sputnik International

The formal military integration of Sweden into NATO will be completed by the end of April, NATO's Allied Command Transformation has said.

2024-03-27T04:17+0000

2024-03-27T04:17+0000

2024-03-27T04:17+0000

world

sweden

russia

nato

russian foreign ministry

integration

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"Sweden joining @NATO boosts transatlantic security, enhances Allied ability to reinforce Baltic Allies, & enhances the defensive posture in the High North. The formal military integration of #Sweden into #NATO will be completed in the end of April," the command said on X on Tuesday.Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom shared the post on his X account. Sweden formally joined the alliance on March 7, becoming its 32nd member state. 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. The Russian Foreign Ministry has said that Moscow remains open to dialogue with NATO but on an equal footing, while the West should abandon its policy of militarizing the continent.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240312/sweden-does-not-want-permanent-nato-bases-in-country-1117276998.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/trump-scores-major-victory-with-bond-reduction-1117563967.html

Trump Scores Major Victory With Bond Reduction

Trump Scores Major Victory With Bond Reduction

Sputnik International

On this episode of Fault Lines, hosts Jamarl Thomas and Melik Abdul delved into a series of pressing global issues, dissecting each with insights from a diverse panel of expert analysts.

2024-03-27T04:18+0000

2024-03-27T04:18+0000

2024-03-27T09:03+0000

fault lines

us

radio

donald trump

japan

central asia

israel-gaza conflict

israel

baltimore

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Trump Scores Major Victory with Bond Reduction Sputnik International On this episode of Fault Lines, hosts Jamarl Thomas and Melik Abdul delved into a series of pressing global issues, dissecting each with insights from a diverse panel of expert analysts.

In the first hour, Fault Lines was joined by veteran war correspondent Elijah Magnier, who explored the United Nations Security Council's passage of a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan. The unexpected decision by the United States not to veto the resolution sparked controversy, leading to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's cancellation of his planned trip to the US.In the second hour, attention shifted to former President Donald Trump's legal victory, as he secured a ten-day extension and a reduction in his bond to $175 million following a court hearing. Fault Lines hosted a panel of Dr. Wilmer Leon, political scientist and co-host of The Critical Hour, and Chris Widener, founder of Red Referral Network, who provided their opinions on the subject.In the final hour, KJ Noh, author, journalist and geopolitical analyst, spoke to Fault Lines about the rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, with Japan announcing plans to restart its military industrial complex.The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comCatch us in the US at 105.5FM, 104.7FM, 102.9FM, 1390AM, 1140AM

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/uk-talks-big-on-nuclear-industry-but-lacks-capacity--ex-mep-1117583010.html

UK Talks Big on Nuclear Industry But 'Lacks Capacity'  ex-MEP

UK Talks Big on Nuclear Industry But 'Lacks Capacity'  ex-MEP

Sputnik International

Policy decisions of successive Conservative governments are promoting the deindustrialization of the UK, with a Gadarene rush to globalization, Nick Griffin, British political analyst and former MEP, told Sputnik.

2024-03-27T16:36+0000

2024-03-27T16:36+0000

2024-03-27T16:36+0000

rishi sunak

united kingdom (uk)

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edf

trident

nuclear submarines

analysis

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Policy decisions of successive Conservative governments are promoting the deindustrialization of the UK, with a Gadarene rush to globalization, Nick Griffin, British political analyst and former MEP, told Sputnik.No wonder the UK lacks the economic capacity to fight its way out of a paper bag, let alone confront foreign powers whose governments have worked to maintain and strengthen their industrial bases, said the pundit.Griffin was commenting on the next generation of British nuclear development recently announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, aimed at securing the UK's nuclear deterrent and lower energy costs through nuclear power.Sunak announced a 200-million ($252m) package of investment into the future of the UKs defense and civil nuclear industry on March 25.The national endeavor includes 20m ($25m) of taxpayer's money annually for the next decade to support the home of British nuclear submarine-building in Barrow-in-Furness, the port where the Royal Navy's new Astute-class fast attack subs are being built. Four Dreadnought-class ballistic missile submarines  HMS Dreadnought, HMS Valiant, HMS Warspite and HMS King George VI  are also being constructed by BAE Systems at the town's shipyard. Dreadnought-class submarines are designed to carry nuclear-armed Trident missiles.Sunaks announcement also revealed that private cash injections to boost jobs and education would be forthcoming from industry leaders such as BAE Systems, EDF, Rolls-Royce and Babcock.But Griffin was Skeptical of the program's prospects.According to the analyst, it was only belatedly dawning on Westminster that selling off key technologies and shopping strategic industries abroad has left the UK extraordinarily vulnerable at times of international crisis.As Sunak unveiled the new public and private investment, he had stated that Safeguarding the future of our nuclear deterrent and nuclear energy industry is a critical national endeavour."In a more dangerous and contested world, the UKs continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent is more vital than ever. And nuclear delivers cheaper, cleaner homegrown energy for consumers, the PM added. When politicians like the British PM promise clean energy through nuclear materials, they are hoodwinking the public in the most sly way possible, a group of experts from the Global Humanitarian Crisis Prevention and Response Unit told Sputnik.Promotion of nuclear energy by the international representation as clean only makes sense if you see that the reliance on nuclear energy is a gateway for development of Nuclear arms, they argued.Is any one individual on this planet to profess that for decades and centuries ahead there will be peace on earth and that no military targeting of nuclear facilities would take place? The answer is No. So why do we even talk about energy dependence on the most hazardous materials on earth? It does not make sense, the group pointed out.Over the past several decades, Britain consigned to the scrap heap several defense programs aimed at the development and upgrade of weapon systems. Conservatives were excoriated for mismanagement and placing emphasis on competition, rather than on resilience. A multi-billion pound program to buy light tanks for the army was plagued by "systemic and institutional" failures in the military procurement system, a review found last year. Before that, Britains Dreadnought nuclear submarines program  a replacement for the ageing Vanguard class Trident nuclear subs  was mired in years of delay since first approved in 2007. Numerous schemes either ran into overrun costs or were ditched altogether.Just recently, a Royal Navy test Trident II missile with a dummy warhead ended in disaster when the SLBM crashed into the sea next to the launching submarine after the missiles first-stage boosters failed to ignite.Sunaks announcement on Monday shows Downing Street is intent on following the same path with its latest initiative, fusing military and civil-related investment.The Global Humanitarian Crisis team noted the British army has been continuously downsized over several decades because the emphasis was continuously placed on smarter ways and new ways of the Battle Art with the thought that Britain does not really require conventional armed forces.But the progress of the currently-raging conflicts show they are "decided in a conventional manner and that nations require a conventional armed contingent  which can defend its borders when required. This realization is fast growing within Britain, said the experts.A recent report issued by the Commons Defense Select Committee (CDSC) stated that the government will never achieve war fighting or strategic readiness without reforms to reverse a recruitment crisis and boost Britains stockpile of weapons and ammunition. Sunak's latest initiative does not address the issues raised in the report, although the CDSC is right, stressed the experts from the group.There has to be a ground-up shift... it is a given that significant reforms and changes need to be made," stated the analysts.But if Downing Street wants to achieve that, it will need to significantly raise the agenda as to why the UK needs to increase military spending. A crucial part of it would be convincing people. As matters stand, the British people do not want to be involved in war."

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240221/failed-trident-missile-launch-casts-doubt-on-us-and-uk-nuclear-capability-1116908317.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240326/russia-hits-out-at-hawkish-nuclear-policy-remark-by-uk-leaders-1117557144.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/ukraine-uav-crashes-into-administrative-building-in-russias-belgorod---governor-1117583993.html

Ukraine UAV Crashes Into Administrative Building in Russia's Belgorod - Governor

Ukraine UAV Crashes Into Administrative Building in Russia's Belgorod - Governor

Sputnik International

A Ukrainian drone has crashed into an administrative building in Russia's Belgorod, and there is one person injured, Russia's Belgorod Region, Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Wednesday

2024-03-27T14:33+0000

2024-03-27T14:33+0000

2024-03-27T14:39+0000

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russia's belgorod shelled by ukraine

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"An enemy UAV crashed into an administrative building in Belgorod. There is one victim  a woman has a shrapnel wound to her chest and a cut wound to her arm. She was taken by an ambulance team to the city hospital No. 2, all necessary medical care is provided. As a result of the explosion, windows on the third and fourth floors were blown out in the building, the facade was damaged," Gladkov said on Telegram. All emergency services are working on site, the official added.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240318/whats-the-buffer-zone-putin-proposed-in-ukraine-1117410009.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/us-israel-rift-widens-amid-tense-back-and-forth-over-gaza-war-1117575379.html

US-Israel Rift Widens Amid Tense Back-and-Forth Over Gaza War

US-Israel Rift Widens Amid Tense Back-and-Forth Over Gaza War

Sputnik International

The Biden administration is continuing to fend off backlash after deviating from its previous course and abstaining from a vote on the UN resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

2024-03-27T07:36+0000

2024-03-27T07:36+0000

2024-03-27T07:36+0000

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The Biden administration is continuing to fend off backlash after deviating from its previous course and abstaining from a vote on a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas in Gaza.Even though many pundits believe the abstention was no more than a posturing PR stunt, blowback has nevertheless come from Israel as well as both parties in Congress.While a furious Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a high-level delegations trip to Washington, incensed pro-Israel House lawmakers have slammed Biden for what they see as a US policy shift away from supporting Israel. A number of both Democrats and Republicans are up in arms over the abstention.Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) went on social media to post that it was appalling the US allowed the passage of the resolution. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) was similarly "shocked." Another Democrat, Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-NY) claimed the abstention had emboldened Hamas.House Republican Anthony D'Esposito (R-NY) on Tuesday introduced a resolution declaring that "any resolution of the Israeli-Hamas conflict should take place only with the full cooperation and approval of Israel at each step of the process." It also insisted that the US "should continue to support Israel and should not attempt to force Israel to take any course of action that is against its best interest."The flurry of reactions from lawmakers followed a diplomatic snub as Israel called off the visit of a high-level delegation to Washington. The meeting had been called at Bidens request and was purportedly set to discuss alternatives to a planned Israeli offensive into Gazas southern city of Rafah.It should be noted that Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant lingered in Washington for talks with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon.After the meeting, Gallant said Israels goals are simple: We need to destroy Hamas as a military and governing organization in Gaza It means that the military framework must be destroyed.Immediately after the UN vote, an exchange of tense rhetoric followed between the US and Israel.Netanyahus office released a statement claiming that Hamas had rebuffed all US offers for a compromise, while celebrating the Security Councils resolution. It added that Hamas position attests to the damage done by the UN Security Councils resolution.In response, State Department spokesman Matt Miller rejected the claims as inaccurate in almost every respect, and unfair to the hostages and their families. Hamas stance during hostage negotiations was formulated ahead of the UN vote, Miller said at a news briefing. Washington refused to engage in rhetorical distractions on this issue, he added.Earlier, on Monday, White House spokesperson John Kirby said at a briefing that the US vote does not - I repeat - does not represent a shift in our policy."Kirby also indicated that the US was "perplexed" by official Israels response, claiming that the resolution was non-binding.As the US presidential election draws closer, Joe Biden has been under growing pressure over his handling of the US stance on the latest deadly spiral of the Palestine-Israel conflict. Recent polling has shown that Biden risks losing the November election after infuriating large portions of his partys base, including Arab American voters in swing states like Michigan.Recently, six House Democrats sent a letter to POTUS calling continued US aid to Israel into question as Netanyahus government continues to block humanitarian aid from entering the besieged Gaza Strip, where over 32,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israels military offensive began in October.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240326/biden-administration-slammed-for-pr-stunt-as-backing-of-israeli-killing-continues-1117550907.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/use-of-depleted-uranium-shells-in-ukraine-dangerous-unacceptable---serbian-health-minister-1117580084.html

Use of Depleted Uranium Shells in Ukraine Dangerous, Unacceptable - Serbian Health Minister

Use of Depleted Uranium Shells in Ukraine Dangerous, Unacceptable - Serbian Health Minister

Sputnik International

The use of depleted uranium munitions in Ukraine is dangerous and unacceptable, Serbian Health Minister Danica Grujicic said in an interview with Sputnik.

2024-03-27T11:33+0000

2024-03-27T11:33+0000

2024-03-27T11:33+0000

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"When I was in Russia, I called in all media [interviews] media which I made, I don't know if they can be seen in Ukraine, for the Kiev leadership not to allow the use of these shells. People still have to live on this territory later, and it will be heavily polluted. Who will buy grain, wheat from there, any agricultural products? Both Ukrainian and Russian people will suffer for generations to come," the minister said. Russian and Serbian medics will cooperate in several areas, including oncology, nuclear medicine, primary health care providers, as well as training for young specialists, Grujicic added. On March 24, an official ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the NATO bombing of Yugoslavia was held in the southern Serbian city of Prokuplje. Top officials participated in the ceremony including Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik, Serbian Orthodox Church Patriarch Porfirije, members of the governments and parliaments from Serbia and Republika Srpska, and representatives of the clergy, army and police, as well as numerous citizens. In 1999, an armed confrontation between Albanian separatists from the Kosovo Liberation Army and the Serbian army and police led to the bombing of Yugoslavia by NATO forces, which started on March 24 and lasted for over two months. The Serbian authorities say that about 2,500 people, including 89 children, were killed and about 12,500 people were injured in the bombings. According to medical data, about 40,000 people in Serbia are diagnosed with cancer every year, and the morbidity and mortality from cancer continue to grow.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/natos-use-of-depleted-uranium-linked-to-cancer-epidemics---serbian-lawyer-1117575592.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240327/what-is-known-about-senegals-new-president-elect-1117579338.html

What is Known About Senegal's New President-Elect?

What is Known About Senegal's New President-Elect?

Sputnik International

Official results of presidential elections in Senegal are a few days away, yet figures released so far show that riding a wave of soaring anti-French sentiment.

2024-03-27T15:12+0000

2024-03-27T15:12+0000

2024-03-27T15:12+0000

africa

france

senegal

west africa

french colonies

colonialism

colonial past

presidential election

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Official results of presidential elections in Senegal are a few days away, yet figures released so far show that riding a wave of soaring anti-French sentiment.Bassirou Diomaye Faye won over 50 percent of the vote, dodging a run-off. The outgoing governing coalitions candidate, former Prime Minister Amadou Ba, conceded defeat to Faye on Monday.The triumph of this newcomer, who has championed greater African sovereignty, is yet another bitter pill for France to swallow.Echoing anti-French sentiments of other Francophone countries in West Africa, such as Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, Faye has said that France should leave Africa alone. From Ex-Tax Inspector to PresidentFaye, a Muslim hailing from a modest rural background, has a master's degree in law. After graduating from the National School of Administration (ENA) and the magistracy in 2004, he became a tax inspector in the Tax and Estates department.At one point, Faye headed the Taxes and Estates Union created by opposition leader Ousmane Sonko. Faye became general secretary of the PASTEF party founded by Sonko in February 2021. The party was dissolved by authorities in 2023 for frequently calling on its supporters to insurrectional movements."Fayes party, La Coalition Diomaye President, is an alliance of opposition groups formed after the dissolution of PASTEF. Both Faye and Sonko were still languishing behind bars just weeks before the election.Sonko, a firebrand who came third in Senegals 2019 presidential election, was ineligible to run again in 2024 after being arrested in 2023. A raft of criminal charges against him, including plotting an insurrection, sparked huge protests. Faye was also charged with spreading misinformation and contempt of court over a social media post about the legal charges against Sonko.Both men were released on March 14 after an amnesty law was passed. Sonko was barred from running in the elections, but Faye launched a whirlwind campaign under the slogan "Diomaye is Sonko.The man set to be Senegals youngest president pulled the carpet from under the feet of those of his opponents supported by neo-colonial paymasters. In a country mired in political crisis, violent unrest, economic stagnation, 20 percent unemployment and poverty, Faye vowed to bring about profound change.His policies includeSpeaking of his countrys security challenges, Faye told French daily newspaper Le Monde that so far, Russia is not one of them [security partners]. But we do not exclude any State from cooperation in general.More and more African nations have been standing up to Western powers and rejecting their continued domination. Earlier in March, military government spokesman Colonel Amadou Abdramane announced that Niger had revoked its military agreement with the United States, which allowed US troops to occupy a base on its territory.Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed France's decreasing influence in its former African colonies in an interview on March 13. Putin said French president Emmanuel Macron's recent frenzy of anti-Russian rhetoric was driven by the desire to avenge the loss of French influence in Africa.France officially surrendered its last imperial territories in mainland Africa in 1975, but Paris continues to exert economic and political influence in many former colonies.But in August 2022 the Malian government demanded that French troops leave the country. That was followed by several other key states of what the French refer to as France-Afrique also ousting the pro-Paris regimes: Guinea and Chad in 2021, Burkina Faso in 2022 and Niger and Gabon in 2023.As neo-colonial regimes came crashing down, increasingly more African leaders have started turning towards Russia. A country that never had any colonies, Russia has been seeking to enhance cooperation with Africa taking into account its historic ties with the continent.Putin has reiterated on numerous occasions that Russia attaches great importance to developing relations with African states and "the development and strengthening of mutually beneficial ties with African countries and their integration associations is one of Russia's foreign policy priorities."

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240314/macrons-anti-russia-war-rhetoric-spawned-by-anger-over-losing-french-clout-in-africa-1117317372.html

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by Xinhua writer Ma Qian

BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Honduras, with a mild climate and ample rainfall, is perfect for growing coffee, hence a leading central-American coffee producer and the sixth-largest coffee producer worldwide.

China would promote the early introduction of Honduran specialty products to the Chinese market, Chinese President Xi Jinping told his Honduran counterpart, Iris Xiomara Castro Sarmiento, in June last year when Castro was on a state visit to China.

Already, Honduran coffee has been gaining popularity among Chinese coffee-lovers.

As Tuesday marks the 1st anniversary of bilateral ties, Xi, in a congratulatory message, pledged that he is ready to work with Castro to consolidate mutual support, and expand all-round cooperation.

"INFINITE OPPORTUNITIES"

These days, Santos Alberto Gaitan and his family have been bending over backwards to explore unique coffee drinks featuring the most authentic Honduran flavour, which they will present as a signature product at this year's China International Imports Expo (CIIE), the world's largest trade fair.

At present, there are approximately 25,000 Honduran families that live by coffee planting. Over the past nearly 80 years, the Gaitans, among others, have grown their family business from a small workshop to one of the biggest coffee purchasing and production companies in El Paraiso Department.

During the sixth CIIE in November last year, Honduran exhibitors signed cooperation agreements for thousands of tons of coffee with Chinese importers.

Making its maiden presence at the trade fair, Honduran companies also brought other major agricultural products like tobacco and chocolate, and the country was one of the five guest countries of honor at the event.

For Gaitan and other Honduran businessmen, China stands as a top export destination with a booming market and growing demand. "The Chinese market is huge and very attractive. It offers numerous opportunities for business and cooperation," he said.

Also during his meeting with Castro last year, Xi said China is willing to start the negotiation process for a free trade agreement at an early date. So far, negotiations on the China-Honduras Free Trade Agreement (FTA) have made substantial progress since they began last July. Last week, China and Honduras held the fourth round of the FTA negotiations in Beijing, conducting comprehensive and in-depth consultations on fields such as trade in goods and services, and investment. A month earlier, the two countries signed an early harvest arrangement for the bilateral FTA.

Noting the rounds of FTA negotiations "have been carried out satisfactorily," Honduras' Minister of Economic Development Fredis Cerrato said the FTA will promote production and exports of premium Honduran agricultural and marine goods, generate jobs and foreign exchange, and attract Chinese investment.

"With China's growth and progress, we have no doubt that it is a strategic and fundamental partner for the development of our country ... We need to continue to build an increasingly strong long-term relationship, so that we bet on a win-win situation and that both countries can bring benefits to their people," Cerrato said.

Given the ongoing FTA negotiations, Gaitan regarded it imperative for entrepreneurs like him to "learn more about Chinese culture and consumers, and seize the infinite opportunities of economic and trade cooperation between our two countries."

"FRIENDS, BROTHERS"

The closer bond between the two peoples since the establishment of China-Honduras diplomatic relations has brought an influx of Honduran visitors to China.

Honduran artist Hermes Estrada has grabbed a chance to realize his "biggest dream" -- to go to China and learn Chinese music, dance and art.

As a Chinese culture enthusiast, Estrada has been invited to participate in the Shanghai Tourism Festival scheduled for September. During the city's annual tourism extravaganza, Estrada and his troupe are expected to wow local residents and global travelers with their exquisite performance of Latin music and dance.

The 42-year-old artist had paid a visit to China in 2012. In his eyes, Honduras and China, one of the world's most picturesque countries, are "friends and brothers."

He believes that there are striking resemblances between the Chinese civilization and the Mayan civilization of Honduras, not least in emphasizing respect for nature and advocating harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature. "I hope I can have more opportunities to visit China," he added.

During talks with the Honduran leader, Xi called on the two sides to promote people-to-people exchanges and consolidate the popular support for the friendship of the two countries.

Over the past year, from launching the first course on traditional Chinese painting in Honduras to carrying out a joint archaeological project at the Maya Site of Copan, China and Honduras have achieved remarkable results in cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, bringing the two ancient civilizations even closer.

Many of the business leaders and journalists, who were in the China-visiting delegation led by Castro, said the trip has transformed their perception of China.

TELLING CHINA'S STORIES

For veteran journalists like Juan Ortiz, China-related topics and stories worth reporting are simply "too many to write."

After reporting in China for two months, Ortiz, head of the Information Department of Honduran weekly the People Power, marveled at the dynamics and achievements of the Chinese modernization drive, which he believes has brought fresh development opportunities to Latin America.

He pointed out an urgent need to represent a real China and its development trajectory in news reporting. "The reality of China is completely different from those distorted reports by the West," Ortiz said. "If you want to understand China, you must go to China and see so many wonderful places!"

Ortiz's perceptions were echoed by multiple media delegates, who have visited China since the establishment of China-Honduras ties and whose footprints spanned from eastern Chinese province of Zhejiang to southwestern Chongqing Municipality.

Kimberly Espinoza, director of Honduras' national public television broadcaster Channel 8, was deeply impressed by China's people-centered development philosophy. "President Xi always harbors sincere feelings for the people and values their well-being."

From his perspective, establishing bilateral relations is a historic choice for Honduras, and China will bring great impetus and experience to benefit Honduras' development. "The world will see a brand-new Honduras," he added. Enditem

(Xinhua reporters Meng Yifei, Li Zijian, Zhang Yuan, Kang Wenjun, Wu Hao and Li Mengxin in Mexico City also contributed to the report.)
Premier Delight made her premier start in the featured $11,600 Fillies and Mares Preferred Pace a delight as she upset the field from 19-1 odds, the longest shot on the board in the field of seven. Jeff Hunt steered his student to the victory on the Tuesday, March 26 card at The Raceway at the Western Fair District.

Major League N (Ed Hensley) designated herself as the pacesetter for the feature mile and clicked out panels in :28.1, :57.4 and 1:26.1. Favoured So Frisky (Colin Kelly) pulled first over en route to the half and Premier Delight followed her lead. A wall of mares crested the final turn, charging towards the wire. With a :30.1 sprint in the final panel, Premier Delight won by one length in 1:57. So Frisky had to settle for second and Major League N completed the triactor.

Premier Delight is a four-year-old daughter of Bettors Delight and the Western Terror mare Icey Breeze. She is owned by Patrick & Jeff Hunt and Miguel Freitas. Premier Delight earned her second win in nine starts this year and seventh win in 39 career starts while moving her bankroll to $64,616. She returned $39.50 to win in her Preferred class debut.

To view Tuesday's harness racing results, click the following link: Tuesday Results - The Raceway at Western Fair District.

(Standardbred Canada)
Local Republicans assembled last Saturday night for the 12th Annual Ronald Reagan Legacy Dinner in Culpeper.

The Culpeper County Republican Committee hosted Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares as keynote speaker for the program, named for the 40th president. There were 133 people in attendance for the dinner at Tuscany Hall, according to a committee release.

I was honored to share how Ronald Reagans tenure and legacy positively impacted my life and that of my mother, said Miyares in a statement. Reagans ideals will forever remain a beacon of inspiration.

In a straw poll held at the dinner gauging support for candidates in the 7th District congressional race, the Culpeper GOP selected Navy SEAL combat veteran Cameron Hamilton, of Orange County. He is one of eight Republicans seeking the party nomination in the June 18 primary.

Only one of those candidates attended Saturdays dinner in Culpeper, Terris Todd, of Woodbridge  an ordained minister who, in 2020, was appointed Executive Director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans in the U.S. Department of Education.

Prince William County Republicans held their Reagan dinner on the same night, drawing many candidates to the higher population center of the 7th District.

U.S. Senate candidate Kimberly Lowe was at the Culpeper event, along with Patti Lyman, Republican National Committeewoman for Virginia.

In the local 7th District straw poll, Hamilton received 51.3% of the vote with candidate Derrick Anderson, an Army combat veteran, coming in second with nearly 37%, according to a release from the Hamilton campaign.

I am honored to receive the overwhelming support of our party in Culpeper, Hamilton said in a statement. It is clear that the home of the Culpeper Minutemen is ready to elect a constitutional conservative who will defend their liberties, rather than another representative who will sell them out.

Legislative leaders in attendance at the Culpeper Reagan Legacy Dinner included Delegates Nick Freitas and Michael Webert, County Supervisors Tom Underwood, Paul Bates and Susan Gugino , along with Town Councilman Joe Short, who served as Master of Ceremonies.

Republican Committee Chairman Larry Green introduced the committees leadership and talked about goals for the future. He expressed gratitude for the event committees hard work in creating a successful celebration so quickly after the recent change in leadership.

Working together is the key to our success and how we will get good conservatives elected in 2024, Green said. We have some great candidates ready to serve in the 7th District and in the senate and we will work hard to get them into office.

Jewel Duvall and her late husband, Dale, were honored with a scholarship named for them in gratitude for their inspiration in establishing the Reagan Legacy Dinner. The Jewel and Dale Duvall scholarship will be awarded annually.
The Virginia State Police Sex Offender and Firearms Investigative Unit is seeking the publics help in locating a convicted sex offender registered as living in Orange County.

Sheldon Locke Davis, 63, is wanted on four counts of failing to re-register as a sex offender, as required by Virginia law.

Davis was previously living in the Rhoadesville area of Orange County but has moved and has failed to update State Police with his new address, according to a release on Wednesday. It is believed that Davis may still be living in Orange County or a surrounding county.

Davis is 59 in height and weighs approximately 175 lbs. He has brown hair and green eyes.

Anyone with information about Daviss whereabouts is encouraged to contact state police by using the TIPS link under the offenders picture on the Virginia State Police Sex Offender Registry at vspsor.com.
Gering residents took the floor in favor and in opposition to a workforce housing development during a public hearing on Monday evening.

The development is being proposed by Oikos Development Corporation, a 5013 based in Kansas City, Missouri, focused on building affordable housing in communities across the United States. Oikos already owns the roughly 30 acres of land northeast of McLellan Park between K Street and D Street where development would take place.

ODC President Michael Snodgrass discussed his company and vision for the project at an open house event last week, where he also answered questions related to the safety, design and potential tenants of the rental development, among other subjects.

Mondays public hearing was specifically related to the proposed rezoning that is needed to make the project viable from the developers perspective. The majority of the land is currently zoned as medium density residential, and ODC is seeking a rezone to high density in order to construct duplexes and fourplexes with smaller yards than what the current zoning requires.

The public hearing lasted around 1 hour and 40 minutes, with residents on both sides of the issue coming forward to give their perspectives.

Supporters included Twin Cities Development Executive Director Jordan Diedrich and 21st Century Equipment CEO Owen Palm, who both spoke on the difficulty of driving development and recruiting workers to the area due to housing shortages.

Housing is the biggest barrier to economic development, Diedrich said. Its a barrier here in Gering, in Nebraska and nationwide. Having something like this on your doorstep is huge, and we need to push it forward and make something happen.

Diedrich also brought up a regional housing study conducted by Western Nebraska Economic Development in August 2022, which showed that Scotts Bluff County needed to construct 500 additional homes within five years to house its current population and also facilitate growth.

Palm recognized the difficulty of retaining young individuals and families in the Gering area due to a current lack of affordable housing options. He said that any of the communities his company serves would be happy to host such a development, and that it will make recruitment easier for him and other business owners.

It allows us, as a larger company, to recruit and retain people from outside the area and increase the number of people who live in Gering, Palm said.

Opponents of the rezoning focused on how they felt the development would impact their neighborhoods and property values. One common theme was traffic and safety, about which Fifth Street resident Kim Graslie and others expressed concern.

Im looking at my little neighborhood, and the only reason you go into that neighborhood is if you live there, Graslie said. Traffic is going to be a whole new ballgame for that neighborhood.

That sentiment was shared by I Street resident Jeff Brun.

Its going to turn I Street and Pappas Boulevard into a thoroughfare, Brun opined. Those streets arent built for that.

Second Street resident Curt Richter made some suggestions to the council regarding ways to allow the development without rezoning the land, which he and others worried would open the door to more intense development in the future.

Its not that I dont trust Mr. Snodgrass. I dont trust anybody, Richter said. They could sell this property off, and if its (zoned as) high density, they can essentially do whatever they want as long as theyre following the zoning regulations.

City engineer Annie Folck pointed out that part of why the council was delaying its vote on the rezoning until April 8 was to pursue an offer made by ODC to place a covenant on the land through the Register of Deeds that would prevent them or any subsequent owner from constructing anything larger than two-story townhomes on the land for up to 99 years.

Folck also explained how the rezoning and subsequent development conform with the citys comprehensive plan, She spent around 10 minutes responding to some common questions and comments at the end of the hearing.

Echoing Diedrichs comments, Folck said the need for additional and more varied housing in the City of Gering had been identified previously. That need was noted in the 2019 revision to the citys comprehensive plan.

People need different types of housing based on where they are in their current phase of life, Folck said. For a community of our size, we have very little multi-family housing and very little multi-family zoning currently.

The comprehensive plan also identifies the East Gering Neighborhood District where the land in question is located as appropriate for rezoning to facilitate construction of that type of housing.

One speaker pointed out other parcels of land in the city that they felt would be better sites for such a development. Folck responded that sites for potential development are few and far between in the city because the owner of the land must be actively interested in developing it and city utilities must already be accessible at its boundaries.

Its simply not true that theres plenty of land elsewhere, Folck said.

Folck addressed a few other comments, such as refuting an assertion made that a 5013 such as ODC would not pay property taxes on the buildings they construct. She and City Administrator Pat Heath both stated that Gering would see benefits from property taxes and utility payments from the development.

Those in opposition to the rezoning proposal also submitted a protest, as outlined in the citys zoning regulations. With more than 20% of homeowners  or 46 of the residents  neighboring the land represented via verified signature, the protest was acknowledged and confirmed by the council.

Due to that protest, approving the rezoning request will take a three quarter majority vote from the city council when the matter returns to the agenda on April 8. That means six of the eight council members must vote in favor or the rezoning will fail.
There was an overflow crowd of veterans, families and friends who attended the Quilts of Valor award ceremony at Richards Coffee Shop and Military Museum in Mooresville on March 21.

The local Quilts of Valor Foundation group, Grateful Quilters, honored 10 veterans for their service in the military.

The mission of Quilts of Valor (QOV) is to honor service members and veterans who have been touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor. As of Feb. 29, there have been 377,384 QOV awarded nationwide.

Grateful Quilters of Mooresville is a chapter of the national Quilts of Valor Foundation. The Mooresville quilters have awarded 178 quilts since forming in 2019.

The veterans included John Englund, who served with the U.S. Marine Corps in World War II from 1943-1946 with Radio Intelligence Platoon and the Korean Conflict from 1948-1952 as an Aircraft Radio Technician. Englund completed basic training in San Diego, California, and was assigned to the Radio Intelligence Platoon. He served in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Saipan and Tinian islands in the Marianas Islands. He returned to Pearl Harbor and was assigned to the Naval radio station, intercepting and reading Japanese code. He was discharged from the Marines in January 1946.

Two years later, he reenlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve. In August 1950, he shipped out to Korea, then to Japan, serving as an aircraft radio technician. In October 1950, he shipped out to Pusan, South Korea. In the winter of 1950, his air squadron moved to Hamhung, North Korea. He returned to the U.S. in August 1951 and was discharged in 1952.

He turned 100 years young recently.

James Foster served in the U.S. Army from 1959-1984 and is a Vietnam veteran. He was twice wounded. He also served in Turkey, France, Germany and Japan.

Donald Keller served in the U.S. Air Force from 1965-1969 and is a Vietnam veteran, working in a transportation unit and Final Escort.

Jim Lawton served in the U.S. Army from 1965-1969. A Vietnam veteran, Lawton served with the 1st Calvary Division as a helicopter pilot, flying resupply missions, medical evacuations and combat assaults. He earned the Silver Star, Bronze Star and 34 Air Medals for his valor in Vietnam.

Tommy Stutts served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1966-1968 and is a Vietnam veteran. Stutts served in Parris Island, South Carolina, and at Camp Lejeune prior to his service in Vietnam.

Vernon Messer served in the U.S. Army from 1967-2000. He served in support of the Gulf War/Desert Shield/Desert Storm and in Grenada. His assignments included Germany, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Messer is a Bronze Star recipient and earned the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal and five Army Commendation Medals.

Peter Davis served in the U.S. Army from 1968-1970 and is a Vietnam veteran. He completed basic training at Fort Ord, California, and USA Intelligence Command at Fort Holabird, Maryland. While serving in Vietnam, he was assigned to Headquarters Command, 101st Airborne Division at Camp Hochmuth.

Kenneth Bair served in the U.S. Army from 1970-1971 and is a Vietnam veteran. While serving in Vietnam, Bair became ill with a fever of 105.5. Doctors at the hospital in Dhu Lai diagnosed him with malaria and hepatitis. This diagnosis started his journey to hospitals in Guam, the Philippines and Japan, then finally to Letterman Hospital in San Francisco. Due to effects from Agent Orange, Bair required a heart transplant in 2008.

David Crary served in the U.S. Army from 1992-2016. He deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. His assignments included Fort Hood, Texas, Germany, Fort Stewart, Georgia and Bosnia, Fort Jackson, South Carolina (three tours), Kuwait, Korea and Hawaii.

Danielle Tonkin Marshall served in the U.S. Army from 2004-2013. She deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, assigned to security and fence protection with the 445tj QM Company, and was stationed at Forward Operating Base Diamondback, Mosul, Iraq. Her other assignments include Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, Fort Lee, Virginia, Fort Polk, Louisiana and Kuwait.

These Quilts of Valor unequivocally say thank you to the veterans for their service, sacrifice and valor in serving this nation. After a presentation to each of the veterans, a representative of the Grateful Quilters read these words, We thank you for your service. Welcome home.
A former Tazewell High music teacher is facing life in prison after being convicted of multiple counts of soliciting pornographic materials from a minor.

John Michael Sharpe, 30, was convicted of 20 counts of enticing a minor to appear in photos and videos and one count of using electronic means to procure obscene material from a minor. The jury deliberated for just over two hours before reaching the verdict after a four-day trial.

He was indicted in March 2022 on 176 counts, which included 148 counts of possession of child pornography and seven additional charges of enticing a minor to appear in photos and videos. Commonwealths Attorney Chris Plaster said his office made the decision at the beginning of the trial to set aside the possession charges and proceed on the enticement counts. Under Virginia law the first conviction for enticement carries three years and each subsequent conviction carries 10 years. Those are mandatory terms.

Evidence presented during Sharpes trial showed he was first questioned about the accusations from a female student in December 2021. Superintendent Dr. Chris Stacy was the Commonwealths first witness and told the court he questioned Sharpe about the incident and that there had been a prior investigation involving Sharpe. The young lady, who was the victim in that case, also testified at Sharpes trial.

Plaster said during a press conference that his office was looking into that case. He said there was a different administration at the school system when the first allegations were made against Sharpe. Plaster thanked his staff and the sheriffs office for their work on the matter. He thanked the two victims for having the courage to testify and called them the real heroes of the case.

Investigator Michelle Conklin testified at the trial that Sharpe was cooperative and turned over his phone when asked to do so. No images were found on Sharpes phone.

Investigator Mike Hall, who qualified as an expert witness for the Commonwealth, later testified that the images were sent via Snapchat and would have been deleted after being opened unless they were saved.

James Blevins, a former Captain of Investigations with the Washington County Sheriffs Office and now a private investigator, was an expert witness for the defense. Blevins conceded on cross examination that Hall was correct about items disappearing from Snapchat unless saved.

The Commonwealth maintained Sharpe willingly turned over his phone because he knew the items were gone. They presented evidence the victim saved them on her phone in a folder labeled for her eyes only. Hall also testified that Sharpes account was deactivated the day before he filed a search warrant to access the material.

Defense Attorneys David Scyphers and Wayne Ausitn maintained Sharpes phone was not password protected and anyone could have used it. After the jury returned its verdict, Sharpes bond was revoked, and he was remanded to the Southwest Regional Jail.

Circuit Judge Rich Patterson set Sharpes sentencing for June 18 at 1 p.m. He faces a minimum of 193 years in prison for the crimes.
Seven of these women will commence their roles in May.

Fifteen Syrian women have been appointed to the Syrian Womens Advisory Council (WAB), as announced by Najat Rochdi, the UN deputy special envoy to Syria.

According to a statement released on Tuesday via the X platform, seven of these women will commence their roles in May, with the remaining joining in November.

Rochdi explained that the selection process for these members was rigorous, focusing on criteria such as political independence, engagement with other Syrian women, and demonstrated leadership within their communities as well as in civil society activism.

She expressed anticipation for their insights and guidance throughout their three-year tenure, aimed at advising under the framework of UN Security Council Resolution 2254.

Emphasizing the importance of inclusivity for the legitimacy of political processes, Rochdi reaffirmed a commitment to the active involvement of Syrian women in shaping the political landscape and fostering enduring peace in their nation.

Its worth noting that Rochdi did not disclose the identities of the newly appointed members or provide any detailed information about them, but she expressed gratitude to the previous council members.

It is pertinent to recall that the WAB was established in January 2016 by the Office of the Special Envoy, Staffan de Mistura, in collaboration with UN Women and with the backing of the UN Department of Political Affairs.

This initiative followed years of advocacy and efforts by Syrian womens rights activists, who campaigned for a direct and meaningful role in peace negotiations.

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.
Syria called for a united international effort to address and resolve the longstanding issue of the occupied Golan Heights.

Syrias Ambassador to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Haider Ali Ahmed, has vigorously reaffirmed Syrias sovereign right to reclaim the Golan Heights, currently under Israeli occupation. Speaking at the 55th session of the Human Rights Council, Ambassador Ahmed highlighted the ongoing human rights issues in Palestine and other Arab territories under occupation, emphasizing the dire need for international action against Israels continued violations.

Ambassador Ahmed criticized the international communitys leniency towards Israel, suggesting that it has emboldened the nation to escalate its offensive operations, posing a significant risk to global peace and security. He denounced the Israeli occupation forces for their relentless aggression and the global powers that provide them with unwavering support, facilitating further violence and bloodshed in the region.

The Syrian Arab Republic asserts its unassailable right to reclaim the Golan Heights, stated Ahmed, urging global powers to disavow any measures taken by Israel to cement its occupation and to abstain from any form of aid that violates international norms.

Ahmed called upon the international community to exert pressure for the implementation of UN recommendations to halt and reverse the expansion of Israeli settlements in both the occupied Palestinian territories and the Golan Heights. He condemned Israels ongoing efforts to solidify its hold over the Golan Heights by altering the regions geographical and demographic landscape, an action that contravenes international law.

Highlighting the broader implications of Israels actions, Ahmed remarked on the systematic and violent crimes perpetrated by what he described as a colonial occupation regime grounded in apartheid. He expressed disappointment over some nations continued support for Israel, despite its blatant disregard for human rights and international law. This support includes the unwavering backing from the United States, noted for its one-sided favoritism towards Israel.

In his address, Ambassador Ahmed extended gratitude towards those nations that have remained committed to upholding international law by engaging in discussions aimed at ending the occupation. He stressed the importance of international solidarity in combating the ongoing human rights violations committed in the occupied territories.

The call for action underscores the urgent need for a united international effort to address and resolve the longstanding issue of the occupied Golan Heights, ensuring respect for Syrias territorial integrity and the fundamental human rights of those affected by the occupation.

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.
Syria said it was "rallying nations around the world to stand against this aggression", according to Tishreen.

The Syrian government has officially condemned a series of pre-dawn attacks by US forces in Deir-ez-Zor, which resulted in the death of seven soldiers and one civilian, alongside significant damage to both public and private properties. The Foreign and Expatriates Ministry issued a stern rebuke of the assaults, labelling them as unfair aggression and a breach of international law and humanitarian standards.

In a vehement statement, the Ministry criticized the United States for assuming the role of a global enforcer, utilizing pretexts that contravene established international norms. It demanded an immediate cessation of what it terms the USs illegitimate presence on Syrian soil, accusing the US of directly supporting Daesh and other terrorist entities through both open endorsement and financial backing.

Syria is rallying nations around the world, especially those fighting for their sovereignty, freedom, and independence, to stand against this aggression, urging them to demand the US withdraw its forces and cease its military operations in the region. The Ministrys statement underscores Syrias commitment to self-defence and its intention to hold the perpetrators accountable, employing all means sanctioned by international law.

The US militarys operation involved aerial bombardments conducted by warplanes and drones, targeting several villages, towns, and military installations across the Deir-ez-Zor countryside. This incident escalates tensions in a region already marred by conflict and underscores the complexity of international relations and the urgent need for dialogue and respect for sovereign rights and international law.

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 European tourist takes photos while visiting Tiantan (Temple of Heaven) Park in Beijing, capital of China, March 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Yang Shujun)

BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- A group of 350 European tourists visited Beijing after arriving in Shanghai on a German cruise.

Maximilian, a 21-year-old from Germany who is part of the tour group, described this trip as "fantastic" and expressed eagerness to explore more Chinese cities in the future.

"It feels like I was in a dream," he said, adding that when he was a child, he had hoped to see the Great Wall of China in person one day. "I finally came to the Great Wall, where every brick carries history, and I will remember this journey in the future."

"It's nice to see very interesting buildings and temples here. Everything was great," said Jutta, another tourist from Germany.

"We meticulously prepared a range of half-day, full-day, and evening tour packages imbued with Chinese cultural essence," said Hu Jiying, deputy general manager of CYTS International Travel Co., Ltd., which is responsible for the reception of these tourists.

The cruise carrying over 1,000 German-speaking tourists arrived in Shanghai last Tuesday. On Tuesday night, some tourists arrived in Beijing by high-speed train and returned to Shanghai after their tours in Beijing the next day.

China has adopted a visa-free policy for Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg on a trial basis, starting March 14.

The implementation of China's new visa-free policy has greatly streamlined travel planning for passengers aboard this cruise, according to Hu.

Talina from Switzerland, who is visiting China for the first time, said that the journey from Shanghai to Beijing was "incredibly quick," lasting just over four hours. She was particularly impressed by China's high-speed rail system and its clean train environment and exceptional service.

Thanks to China's visa-free policy, the number of foreign tourists visiting China has increased significantly. According to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Chinese mainland saw 3.23 million inbound tourist arrivals during the eight-day Spring Festival holiday this year.

Beijing has enriched its tourism packages, expanded global communication channels, and introduced measures to improve the experience of foreign visitors in various aspects, according to the city's cultural and tourism department.

"To provide convenient services for foreign tourists, Tiantan (Temple of Heaven) Park operates an English-language online ticket purchasing platform as well as offers manual ticket consulting services in English," said Ren Chao, who works with the management department of the park.

The park accepts foreign bank cards and all essential information displayed in the park is presented in a bilingual format, Ren added.

"China has a long history and is very modern at the same time. I want to tell my family and friends about the wonderful time I had here," Maximilian said. 

Maximilian, a 21-year-old from Germany who is part of the tour group, visits Tiantan (Temple of Heaven) Park in Beijing, capital of China, March 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Yang Shujun)
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.

The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned 11 people and companies on Tuesday that it said were involved in illicit financial transfers and drug smuggling in support of the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Many of those sanctioned were involved in the trade of the highly addictive amphetamine captagon, which is illegally trafficked throughout the Middle East and Europe, the Treasury Department said in a statement.

Syria has become the worlds leading producer of the powerful drug, and its trade has helped bolster the Assads governments coffers during the countrys long-running civil war.

The revenue from the illicit Captagon trade has become a major source of income for the Assad regime, the Syrian armed forces, and Syrian paramilitary forces, the Treasury Department said in a statement.

Those sanctioned include a Syrian national called Taher al-Kayali, who allegedly operates a company that purchased vessels to smuggle captagon and hashish.

Maya Exchange Company, another Syria-based firm, is alleged to have facilitated millions of dollars of illicit transactions to benefit the Syrian government.

The Assad regime continues to employ a variety of schemes to evade sanctions and sustain its longstanding campaign of repression against its own citizens, Treasury undersecretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson said in a statement.

This includes trafficking in illegal drugs, exploiting currency exchanges, and leveraging seemingly legitimate businesses, he continued.

UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria Mourns the Loss of WHO Team Member in Deir-ez-Zor Air Strikes

In a heartfelt statement released on 26 March 2024, Adam Abdelmoula, the United Nations Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of Eng. Emad Shehab, a dedicated water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) professional with the World Health Organization (WHO) in Deir-ez-Zor City, Syria.

Eng. Shehabs life was cut short in the early hours of Tuesday, 26 March, when air strikes ravaged the Governorate of Deir-ez-Zor, hitting his building among others. The attacks not only claimed his life but also resulted in the death of several civilians, marking yet another dark day in Syrias prolonged crisis, now in its 14th year.

With a commendable history of service within the WHO team since 2023, and prior engagements with multiple UN agencies and non-governmental organizations, Eng. Emad was instrumental in overseeing numerous construction and rehabilitation projects, particularly those related to water stations and sanitation facilities. Abdelmoula extended his sincere condolences to Eng. Shehabs wife, two young children, extended family, friends, and colleagues, highlighting the significant loss to the humanitarian community and beyond.

Abandoned Children Growing Problem in Northern Syria

In a long report by IPSNews.com, the publication focused on the distressing trend of abandoned children in Idleb, Northwest Syria, spotlighting the profound impacts of war, poverty, and societal issues on the youngest and most vulnerable. Wael Al-Hassans discovery of a month-old baby girl by the roadside in Harim, on December 10, 2023, brings to light the grave reality of infants left to fend for themselves, often with fatal outcomes from exposure, hunger, or animal attacks.

The underlying causes of child abandonment in northern Syria are multifaceted. Social worker Abeer Al-Hamoud attributes this growing issue to poverty, high population density, insecurity, and the aftermath of divorces or spouses leaving their families. Compounding these factors are the consequences of early marriage and the abandonment of children by widows or partners of foreign fighters, who often leave these children undocumented and vulnerable.

Rape and the resultant fear of familial and societal retribution further contribute to the abandonment of newborns. This crisis calls for urgent action to protect these children from exploitation and discrimination, with suggested solutions including the reintegration of displaced persons, improvement of living conditions, family planning education, and societal campaigns for their integration.

The preference for community members to adopt these children faces bureaucratic and religious obstacles, as exemplified by Samaheer al-Khalafs struggle to officially adopt a child she and her husband decided to raise. The lack of official documentation restricts these childrens access to civil rights, including education and healthcare.

To address this issue, volunteers have established the Childrens House in Sarmada, providing care, education, and attempts at family reunification or foster family placement for children of unknown parentage. The center, surviving on scarce individual donations, caters to children up to 18 years old, offering a semblance of normalcy and support amidst their uncertain futures.
A Camas-Washougal Fire Department battalion chief suspected of strangling his wife in January was apparently having an on-and-off affair for 20 years, and he planned to leave his wife on the day of her slaying, court documents show.

Kevin W. West, 49, of Washougal appeared Monday in Clark County Superior Court on suspicion of first-degree murder in the Jan. 8 death of Marcelle Marcy West, 48.

Judge David Gregerson set his bail at $1.5 million and scheduled his arraignment for April 9.

Kevin West appeared via Zoom from the Clark County Jail and wore a suicide-prevention smock, given to inmates who may try to harm themselves with standard jail clothing.

He was arrested Friday on the allegation following a monthslong investigation, according to a Clark County Sheriffs Office statement.

Investigators discovered Kevin West had been having an affair with a woman he met in the early 2000s when she was a volunteer with the fire department. The affair apparently began in 2004, according to an affidavit of probable cause.

Kevin West initially told investigators his wife suffered a seizure the night she died, the sheriffs office said. But the Clark County Medical Examiners Office later determined the cause of death to be asphyxia with blunt trauma to the neck and the manner of death as homicide. Court records state the couple were the only ones home at the time of Marcy Wests death.

Investigators first interviewed Kevin West on Jan. 23, shortly after the medical examiners office determined Marcy West suffered injuries consistent with strangulation. While he told investigators about his relationship with his wife, his lover was in the garage. They had been having drinks together before investigators arrived, according to the affidavit.

Detectives later discovered two love letters written by Kevin West addressed to his lover in the garage.

2024 will be our year, he wrote, according to the affidavit. We will be together celebrating everyday with love and understanding of what it means for you and I to be together. Our story will ring in the New Year loud for all to hear!

Investigation

The Camas-Washougal Fire Department and Washougal Police Department responded at 4:27 a.m. to a medical emergency at the Wests residence at 2573 34th St.

Kevin West told first responders his wife was having a seizure, and she had stopped breathing. Medics unsuccessfully attempted to resuscitate her; she was declared dead at 5:11 a.m., according to court records.

He told first responders his wife had a headache and vomited before they went to bed together, but it was an otherwise normal night of watching movies and eating Chinese takeout, the affidavit states.

He said he awoke to his wife seizing in bed and that he initiated CPR, and he noted his wife did not have a history of seizures or other significant medical history, court records show.

Detectives and the death investigator noted obvious signs of trauma to Marcy West, the affidavit states.

Several people contacted authorities with concerns about the Wests relationship and worries that Marcy Wests death may not have been from natural causes, according to the sheriffs office.

A man who was acquainted with Kevin Wests lover reported the affair to authorities, and he described the circumstances surrounding Marcy Wests death as extremely weird and suspicious, court records state.

A criminal investigation was initiated and handed off to the sheriffs office to avoid a conflict of interest because of Kevin Wests employment with the fire department. (Kevin West has been employed by the fire department for 22 years. A city spokesman said Monday he is currently on unpaid leave.)

Kevin West told investigators his marriage experienced occasional bumps due to financial woes and referenced a rough patch in 2015. Financial statements later seized during the investigation showed the couple had more than $100,000 in consumer debt, according to the affidavit.

On Jan. 31, Kevin West acknowledged to investigators he was having an affair. He said his wife did not know about the affair, and he deleted all communications with his lover in case his wife looked through his phone, court records show.

He also said there were no future plans between him and his lover. Theres no way I could ever leave Marcy, he told investigators, according to the affidavit. Theres no way I could ever go through with it.

When investigators asked Kevin West if he would be surprised to learn Marcy West suffered injuries before her death, he said yes.

I spent my whole life helping people and saving people, he said, according to the affidavit. I never laid hands on my wife.

The Wests phones were seized for evidence. Hundreds of recovered deleted messages revealed Kevin West had plans to leave his wife for his lover Jan. 8, the day Marcy West died, the affidavit states.

Kevin West had texted his lovers mother Jan. 3, saying: Im meeting my attorney on the 9th and I will have options to decide from and Im very excited. I will also be moving out on the 8th. Next week will be a big week for  (us) to celebrate.

Additionally, notes from November and December on Marcy Wests phone document relationship issues.

You get angry frequently, makes me uncomfortable, she wrote, according to the affidavit. Sweet then very angry and I dont know why.
Cowlitz County courts are still reeling from a backlog of court cases from the pandemic, so officials hired national consultants who recommend changes to make processes more efficient.

Cowlitz County Superior Court Judge Thad Scudder said he came up with the idea of an evaluation after watching a video on how courts in Flagstaff were updating their case flow management after the pandemic.

It looked to me like they had the same problems we had, he said. And I think the problems we have (include) not being able to guarantee trial dates, which is a big one.

He said during the pandemic it was difficult to resolve cases when hearings were canceled, and the courts have yet to catch up.

Cowlitz County Superior Court is still not filing as many cases as before the pandemic, according to data from Washington Courts. In 2019, 5,733 cases were filed in Cowlitz County and 5,334 resolved, but in 2023, 4,553 cases were filed and 4,099 were resolved.

So Scudder secured a grant, which paid for consultants from the National Center for State Courts to interview judges, prosecuting attorneys and staff, public defense office staff, court clerks, defense attorneys, probation staff, and jail staff.

The study recommends a new case flow plan, more training, better collaboration between the court and the clerks office, and updating the website.

However, having a plan is not enough, Scudder added. Without judicial support, its likely to fail, no matter how well thought out the strategy.

We have five elected people here. We try to work as a unit, try to, but were independently elected, he said. We have different philosophies about it.

He said there is also an idea that lawyers should dictate the pace of the litigation, mainly because they are the ones who know the case the most, and they should be afforded that latitude.

Maybe (that) worked in normal times, but I dont know if that works now with the numbers we have, he said.

Why the delay?

One reason behind the delays in court proceedings is the admission process into the therapeutic courts, which consist of an adult drug court and a mental health court, the study found.

According to the report, it takes about four to five weeks for a defendant, from the time of the arrest to the opt-in court appearance, which could take about five minutes, as the objective is for the court to enroll the defendant into the therapeutic court track formally.

Attorneys commonly refer their clients to therapeutic courts, regardless of eligibility, causing delays in the referral process. Some defense attorneys are still unclear about the admission criteria, which has been made worse by the 2021 Blake decision and subsequent state law which reduced drug possession to a misdemeanor. The decision has resulted in a relaxation of the admission criteria to accommodate more participants and restore the programs capacity. The report recommends reviewing the case status, have judicial assistants review the docket in advance, and streamline the admissions and screening process into therapeutic court.

The report states that in Cowlitz County, the lack of a formal, written policy for granting continuances has resulted in a system where individual judges make decisions based on their own criteria. Both defense attorneys and prosecutors frequently obtain continuances, creating an inconsistent approach to case management. According to the report, there has been a 63% increase in continuances since 2018, and the report recommends the court create a written continuance policy for all court hearings.

As described in the report, the proposed policy should mandate that requests be made in writing, with a clear deadline for filing the motion before the court session.

Besides causing delays, continuances cost the public money, given the valuable time of the various court officials involved when a scheduled court event does not occur.

The report recommends shortening the Thursday criminal superior docket by reducing the number of cases listed. Thursdays are used for pretrial hearings, reviews and arraignments. Some judges use the day to hear pleas, first appearances, and motions and preside over the readiness docket on other days, but defendants are not permitted to enter a guilty plea or be sentenced.

As stated in the report, there can be 150-170 cases on the Thursday calendar.

Consultants have suggested that the number of Thursday hearings could be decreased by allowing parties to submit their pretrial management order seven business days before the session. This would help establish a scheduling order with deadlines and allow cases to be triaged to resolve them earlier.

Attorney, clerk issues

The report not only presents a comprehensive list of recommendations for the court to consider but also underscores significant concerns, such as the high turnover rate for both prosecuting attorneys and public defenders, which has caused, as the report states, a flood of novice attorneys who not only lack experience in criminal law but especially in severe felony cases. And that some continuance requests are a result of unprepared attorneys.

A recommendation for helping novice attorneys is that judges and seasoned attorneys provide training, either regularly in a group setting or through a mentoring program.

The report also suggests that prosecuting attorney and the director of public defense should seek a case flow study to determine the number of attorneys needed based on data. This will help determine whether both departments are short-handed and need more funding.

According to the report, the interviewees disclosed a communication gap among the clerks of the court staff, court administrators, and jail staff, particularly when creating court schedules. They recommended that these groups should collaborate to develop an effective schedule.
Cowlitz County is seeing an increase in overdose deaths, both in general and relating specifically to fentanyl, Coroner Dana Tucker reported at a Board of Health meeting Tuesday.

Overdose deaths increased from 31 in 2022 to 49 in 2023 (though the office previously reported a higher number in 2022 to The Daily News which has since been corrected). In that same time, fentanyl-related deaths more than doubled, increasing from 18 to 42. This includes deaths from fentanyl alone as well as in conjunction with other drugs.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid prescribed for issues such as severe cancer pain. The DEA says the drug is 100 times more potent than morphine.

Opioid deaths are rising across the state. The Washington State Department of Health reports the annual number of opioid drug overdose deaths nearly doubled from 2019 to 2021.

A report by the University of Washington shows Cowlitz County had the second highest rate of deaths by the illegal opioid heroin from 2020 to 2022 per 100,000 people than any other county. However, the rate of local deaths by synthetic opioids during this time was on the lower end compared to other counties.

Dangers of fentanyl

In many death cases, it is difficult to tell whether multiple drugs were taken intentionally or whether the victim unknowingly took something that had been laced with fentanyl, Tucker said. She added that there have been reports of many substances, including marijuana, being laced with fentanyl.

Cocaine deaths also rise Coroner Dana Tucker said her office did not break down data on specific drugs other than fentanyl in 2022, but the number of deaths involving cocaine was also increasing. The office reported seven cocaine-related deaths in 2023. One involved only cocaine, two involved fentanyl and cocaine, and four involved a mix of cocaine, fentanyl and methamphetamines.

Fentanyl can be injected, smoked or taken by pill.

One reason for the growing number of fentanyl overdoses is that it can become fatal in very small amounts, and dosages are not strictly controlled, Tucker said.

Nobody knows exactly how much is in those pills, she said. Theyre not chemists that are doing it.

Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, is used to treat opioid overdoses, including fentanyl. It is available at pharmacies and does not require a prescription, County Health Officer Steve Krager said.
Where you live has a significant impact on how long you live. In Washington, life expectancy varies by up to 11 years depending on your county of residence, according to a new report.

San Juan County, a picturesque cluster of islands in the north Puget Sound, had the longest life expectancy among Washingtons 39 counties. San Juan County residents have an impressive average life expectancy of 86.3 years, according to the 2024 County Health Rankings & Roadmaps report, released Wednesday by the University of Wisconsins Population Health Institute.

Thats easily the longest life expectancy in Washington and is among the longest of any county in the country. San Juan tied with Aleutians West County, Alaska, as the 10th longest-lived counties in the U.S. Mono County, Calif., ranked No. 1, with an astounding average life expectancy of 98.9 years.

King Countys average life expectancy, 81.6 years, tied for second longest in Washington with Skamania County, which is in southwestern Washington and where Mount St. Helens is located.

Sparsely-populated Pend Oreille County, in the northeast corner of Washington, had the lowest life expectancy in the state, an average of 74.9 years, a little more than 11 years shorter than the average in San Juan. Pen Oreille is also only about a year off from Cowlitz Countys average, 75.7.

No Washington County was anywhere near the bottom nationally for life expectancy. Buffalo County, S.D., was lowest at just 55.9 years.

The life expectancy figures in the report were calculated using data from 2019-21. The report does not address the effect of COVID on life expectancy, though the pandemic, of course, affected health during part of this time frame.

The report also includes a calculation on premature death rate for U.S. counties. This data point estimates the number of years of life lost to deaths of people under age 75, per 100,000 people.

Here again, San Juan County stands out. The county had the lowest rate of premature death in Washington, with a rate of 3,542 years of potential life lost per 100,000. And Pend Oreille was again at the other end of the spectrum, with a rate of 11,672 years of potential life lost per 100,000.

King County had the second lowest rate, at 5,119 years per 100,000.

Health outcomes such as average life expectancy and the premature-death rate are not simply a matter of chance. There are many factors that contribute, such as health behaviors, access to care, environment and social and economic factors.

The report includes data on some of these factors that contribute to health outcomes. In many of these, King County ranked at or near the top among Washington counties.

For example, only 12% of King County residents described their health as poor or fair, which tied with San Juan County as the lowest in the state. In Adams County, 25% reported their health as poor or fair.

And King County residents had the lowest average number of physically unhealthy days per month, at three, and tied with Kitsap County for the lowest average number of mentally unhealthy days, at 4.9.

There were a number of other metrics where King County stood out, such as the lowest rates of adults who smoke cigarettes (9%) and adult obesity (23%). King tied with San Juan for percentage of adults who reported being physically inactive outside of work, at 14%.

Counties in Eastern Washington had the highest rates of smokers, adult obesity and physically-inactive residents.

Only 6% of people under age 65 in King County had no health insurance, tied with Spokane County as the lowest rate in the state. King also had high per capita rates of doctors, dentists and mental health providers, especially compared with Washingtons more rural counties.

King County didnt shine when it comes to alcohol abuse. Nineteen percent of adults in the county reported binge drinking or excessive consumption of alcohol, which was toward the high end among Washington counties. Whatcom County, home to Western Washington University, had the highest rate of adults who drink excessively, at 20%.

Social and economic factors play a role in the health of a community, and King County ranked highly along many of these metrics compared with the rest of the state. For example, King County had a high percentage of residents whove attended college and low rates of unemployment and poverty.

There were some social and economic factors for which King County didnt rank as highly. King had relatively high rates of income inequality and severe housing problems, which includes high housing costs, overcrowding and inadequate facilities. King was also in the bottom third among the states counties for air quality and for the share of drive-alone commuters who commute more than 30 minutes each way.

King tied with San Juan and Chelan Counties for the lowest share of residents getting fewer than seven hours of sleep on average, at 27%. Folks in Grays Harbor County get the worst sleep in the state, with 37% not getting seven hours on a typical night.
Israeli security forces look at the damage after a rocket fired by Lebanon's Hezbollah in the city of Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel, March 27, 2024. A man was killed as a rocket attack launched Wednesday by Hezbollah militants in Lebanon struck a factory in the city of Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel.

About 30 rockets were fired at the city, said the Israeli army. (Ayal Margolin/JINI via Xinhua)

JERUSALEM, March 27 (Xinhua) -- A man was killed as a rocket attack launched Wednesday by Hezbollah militants in Lebanon struck a factory in the city of Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel.

About 30 rockets were fired at the city, said the Israeli army.

The 25-year-old young man was pulled out of the factory hit by the rockets, Israel's Magen David Adom rescue service said in a statement.

Paramedics declared his death at the scene, not providing more details.

The attack was the latest in cross-border fighting between Israel and Hezbollah that began when Israel launched its retaliation against Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023. 

This photo taken on March 27, 2024 shows a damaged building after a rocket fired by Lebanon's Hezbollah in the city of Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel. A man was killed as a rocket attack launched Wednesday by Hezbollah militants in Lebanon struck a factory in the city of Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel.

About 30 rockets were fired at the city, said the Israeli army. (Ayal Margolin/JINI via Xinhua)

(240327) -- SAFED, March 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- Israeli soldiers wait at a medical center in the city of Safed for the arrival of the injured people after a rocket attack by Lebanon's Hezbollah toward north Israel's Kiryat Shmona, March 27, 2024. A man was killed as a rocket attack launched Wednesday by Hezbollah militants in Lebanon struck a factory in the city of Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel.

About 30 rockets were fired at the city, said the Israeli army. (David Cohen/JINI via Xinhua)

(240327) -- SAFED, March 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- An injured man arrives at a medical center in the Israeli city of Safed after a rocket attack by Lebanon's Hezbollah toward north Israel's Kiryat Shmona, March 27, 2024. A man was killed as a rocket attack launched Wednesday by Hezbollah militants in Lebanon struck a factory in the city of Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel.

About 30 rockets were fired at the city, said the Israeli army. (David Cohen/JINI via Xinhua)
Enjoy old or unusual movies? Heres a review:

Krakatoa: East of Java (1968): Sometimes disasters are worth watching, and this disaster movie certainly is. Not because its good, but because it isnt. This very expensive bomb about a mountain that turned into a bomb stars Maximilian Schell, Brian Keith, Rossano Brazzi, Sal Mineo and Diane Baker. Theyre all on a treasure-hunting mission in 1883 (though itll feel a lot more like 1968) to score some diamonds from a shipwreck that happens to lie perilously close to the misbehaving volcano. The special effects were nominated for an Oscar, but Ill let you be the judge. Just have fun watching the bad acting, the incongruous music (WHY is Barbara Werle singing?) and flaming hot air balloon. Its a glorious mess. Oh, and of course, Krakatoa is WEST of Java.

Now streaming on YouTube

All of Us Strangers (2023): Adam (Andrew Scott) leads a lonely life as a screenwriter, living in a nearly empty London high-rise. Then two things upend his life: He meets an attractive neighbor (Paul Mescal), and somehow begins visiting his long-dead parents (Jamie Bell and Claire Foy) in his childhood home. Its all very mysterious and romantic and lovely and sad, and you cant think too much about any of the logic. Just enjoy the ravishing acting by the four leads. Ive long held that Bell is underrated, and youll see what I mean as he quietly kills it as Adams regretful dad. The movie is practically a Rorschach test, and dares its audience to come up with their own conclusions about whats going on.

Now streaming on Hulu

One of the Missing (1969): This early short from director Tony Scott adapts an Ambrose Bierce short story about a Civil War soldier on a scouting mission. Containing very little dialogue, the tense film has us following the scout (an intense Stephen Edwards, who never made another film) as he infiltrates enemy territory. As hes peering at an enemy encampment, he has a moment of disastrous bad luck and spends the rest of the film trying to escape a cruel fate. This movie shows off the visual flair that Scott would later develop hugely into blockbusters like Top Gun and True Romance.

Now streaming on BFI Player Classics

Vaxan (1922): This truly eerie Danish/Swedish hybrid documentary investigates the Catholic Churchs persecution of witchcraft in the Middle Ages. Director Benjamin Christensen (who also acts in the film) suggests several explanations for the widespread phenomenon of witchcraft accusations. For one thing, it was a convenient way to get rid of poor widows (hows that for a depressing thought?). Also, mental illness was not understood in those earlier times, and strange behavior could strike fearful people as Satanic. The imagery and stories told in the film are striking and unforgettable.

Now streaming on The Criterion Channel

Trivia Question #1046: Which of this weeks films was directed by someone who ended their life by jumping off of a bridge in Long Beach, California?

Answer to Trivia Question #1044: Writer director Fares Fares did voiceover work for the award-winning video game It Takes Two.
Gov. Greg Abbott gave an educational space race challenge to Texas universities on Tuesday: Which one would be first to have a degree program in space engineering?

It only took Texas A&M officials one day to answer that question.

Robert Bishop, A&Ms incoming Dean of Engineering, said Wednesday he supports creating a space engineering degree after faculty members expressed their desire for the program. This new degree program will require approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and various entities within A&M. Pending those OKs, A&M officials said the degree programs could be available as soon as fall 2025.

While aerospace and space engineering are related, aerospace engineers focus on getting people and aircraft to places like the moon and Mars and space engineers would help build structures and operations on celestial bodies like the lunar and Martian surfaces.

I am thrilled to announce that one of my first orders of business is to help make Texas A&M a world leader in Space Engineering, Bishop said in a statement. Degrees in Space Engineering will give students at Texas A&M the skills they need to be pioneers in the space industry as they learn to establish exciting new systems for space exploration and research.

Tuesdays charge from Abbott came during an event at NASAs Johnson Space Center in Houston, where the governor announced the members of the new Texas Space Commission (TSC), which is littered with Aggies. Abbott announced the inaugural members of the Commissions Board of Directors and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium (TARSEC) Executive Committee. The group includes five A&M former students and two leaders of A&Ms Space Institute.

The TSC is made up of nine appointed people that will develop plans for subsequent research goals and to keep Texas as a space leader going forward. The commission consists of people who come from different backgrounds, such as military, the private sector and higher education.

Since its very inception, NASAs Johnson Space Center has been home to manned spaceflight, propelling Texas as the national leader in the U.S. space program, Abbott said in a statement. It was at Rice University where President John F. Kennedy announced that the U.S. would put a man on the moon  not because it was easy, but because it was hard.

Now, with the Texas Space Commission, our great state will have a group that is responsible for dreaming and achieving the next generation of human exploration in space. Texas is the launchpad for Mars, innovating the technology that will colonize humanitys first new planet. As we look into the future of space, one thing is clear: those who reach for the stars do so from the great state of Texas. I look forward to working with the Texas Space Commission, and I thank the Texas Legislature for partnering with industry and higher education institutions to secure the future of Texas robust space industry.

Abbott appointed John Shannon, A&M Class of 1987, to the TSCs Board of Directors. Shannon, a Houston resident, is vice president of exploration systems at the Boeing Company and is responsible for all aspects of human spaceflight. Shannon previously worked for NASA at the Johnson Space Center for 26 years. He served as a flight director and space shuttle program manager.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick appointed Aggies Sarah Ann Duggleby, Kirk Shireman and Evan Loomis to the TSC Board.

Duggleby, A&M Class of 2001, is the CEO and co-founder of Venus Aerospace Corp. Shireman, A&M Class of 1985, is the vice president of lunar exploration campaigns at Lockheed Martin. He serves on the board of advisors for the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service and the board of advisors for the Texas A&M Aerospace Engineering Advisory Board. Loomis, A&M Class of 2003, is the co-founder of ICON, a general partner in Overmatch Ventures, a founding partner of Saturn Five and a venture partner for Audere Capital LLC. Loomis also serves as an adjunct professor at A&M.

Nancy Currie-Gregg, a former NASA astronaut and director of A&Ms Space Institute, was appointed to the TSC Board by Speaker Dade Phelan. Currie-Gregg recorded over 1,000 hours in space over the course of four missions. She was named director of A&Ms Space Institute last August.

Six people were also named to the TARSEC Executive Committee. Abbott appointed Stephanie Murphy, A&M Class of 2000, to the committee. She is the CEO and executive chairman of Aegis Aerospace, Inc., and a member of the Texas A&M Engineering Advisory Council. A&M Chancellor John Sharp named Robert Ambrose, assistant director of A&Ms Space Institute, to the committee. Ambrose, a renowned space robotics expert, previously worked for NASA for over 20 years and held various positions, such as the division chief for Johnson Space Center and the principal technologist for NASA headquarters.

Texas lawmakers put a new emphasis on the space industry during last years legislative session. In June 2023, Abbott signed HB 3447 into law, which created the Texas Space Commission that will oversee planning for the states space industry. The bill included $350 million for the TSC with $150 million going to the Space Exploration and Aeronautics Research Fund and $200 million to A&M to build its new facility. The bill was primarily authored by Rep. Greg Bonnen, R-Friendswood, and A&M Class of 1988. Bonnens district borders the Johnson Space Center.

In February, A&M leaders traveled to League City to sign a ground lease with NASA to build a 30-acre, $200 million facility at Exploration Park adjacent to Johnson Space Center. This new facility is expected to be owned and operated by A&M and house the TSC, the Space Consortium, the Texas Space Aeronautics and Curation Exploratorium (T-Space) and the A&M Space Institute. The facility is expected to include labs, shops, classrooms, meeting rooms, control rooms and spaces for astromaterial curation for post-mission materials and sample research.

Texas has led human space exploration since the beginning, Bonnen said in a statement. Texas is the home of manned spaceflight and training, the curation of astromaterials, and the development of the worlds first super heavy lift reusable launch vehicle. The Texas Space Commission and Space Consortium will further cement Texas as the preeminent location for exploration, research, and development of space in the new age of space flight.
Smith Anglin Financial LLC purchased a new position in International Business Machines Co. (NYSE:IBM  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund purchased 10,377 shares of the technology companys stock, valued at approximately $1,697,000.

A number of other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the business. Cantor Fitzgerald Investment Advisor L.P increased its holdings in International Business Machines by 97.6% in the 1st quarter. Cantor Fitzgerald Investment Advisor L.P now owns 257,335 shares of the technology companys stock worth $33,459,000 after acquiring an additional 127,093 shares in the last quarter. Roundview Capital LLC purchased a new position in International Business Machines in the first quarter worth approximately $203,000. Sei Investments Co. raised its stake in International Business Machines by 35.7% in the first quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 177,599 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $23,157,000 after buying an additional 46,756 shares in the last quarter. Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. lifted its stake in International Business Machines by 1.9% in the first quarter. Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. now owns 95,662 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $12,438,000 after buying an additional 1,821 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Baird Financial Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of International Business Machines by 1.5% in the first quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 382,232 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $49,698,000 after acquiring an additional 5,506 shares during the period. 56.16% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts recently commented on IBM shares. BMO Capital Markets upped their price target on shares of International Business Machines from $155.00 to $210.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research report on Thursday, January 25th. Evercore ISI upgraded shares of International Business Machines from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and increased their target price for the stock from $165.00 to $200.00 in a research note on Friday, January 19th. Jefferies Financial Group began coverage on International Business Machines in a research report on Friday, January 5th. They issued a hold rating and a $180.00 price target on the stock. Sanford C. Bernstein increased their price objective on International Business Machines from $165.00 to $186.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Thursday, March 7th. Finally, Bank of America upped their price target on International Business Machines from $200.00 to $220.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, March 14th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, International Business Machines currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $176.85.

International Business Machines Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:IBM traded down $0.29 on Tuesday, reaching $188.50. 4,225,410 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 5,273,235. International Business Machines Co. has a fifty-two week low of $120.55 and a fifty-two week high of $199.18. The businesss 50-day moving average is $185.87 and its two-hundred day moving average is $163.70. The company has a quick ratio of 0.93, a current ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.22. The firm has a market capitalization of $172.81 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.19, a PEG ratio of 3.74 and a beta of 0.70.

International Business Machines (NYSE:IBM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, January 24th. The technology company reported $3.87 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.78 by $0.09. International Business Machines had a net margin of 12.13% and a return on equity of 39.55%. The firm had revenue of $17.38 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $17.29 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $3.60 earnings per share. International Business Machiness quarterly revenue was up 4.1% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that International Business Machines Co. will post 10.07 EPS for the current year.

International Business Machines Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Saturday, March 9th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 9th were paid a $1.66 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 8th. This represents a $6.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.52%. International Business Machiness payout ratio is presently 81.67%.

About International Business Machines

(Free Report)

International Business Machines Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated solutions and services worldwide. The company operates through Software, Consulting, Infrastructure, and Financing segments. The Software segment offers a hybrid cloud and AI platforms that allows clients to realize their digital and AI transformations across the applications, data, and environments in which they operate.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IBM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for International Business Machines Co. (NYSE:IBM  Free Report).

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Canvas Wealth Advisors LLC decreased its position in Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:VOO  Free Report) by 40.0% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 11,545 shares of the companys stock after selling 7,704 shares during the period. Vanguard S&P 500 ETF makes up 1.8% of Canvas Wealth Advisors LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 17th largest position. Canvas Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Vanguard S&P 500 ETF were worth $5,056,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Phillips Financial Management LLC boosted its stake in Vanguard S&P 500 ETF by 0.4% in the 3rd quarter. Phillips Financial Management LLC now owns 75,969 shares of the companys stock worth $29,833,000 after purchasing an additional 275 shares during the period. LVW Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Vanguard S&P 500 ETF by 16.8% in the 4th quarter. LVW Advisors LLC now owns 3,755 shares of the companys stock worth $1,640,000 after purchasing an additional 540 shares during the period. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its stake in Vanguard S&P 500 ETF by 25.1% in the 3rd quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 91,239 shares of the companys stock worth $35,830,000 after purchasing an additional 18,314 shares during the period. Deutsche Bank AG boosted its stake in Vanguard S&P 500 ETF by 5.2% in the 3rd quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 76,706 shares of the companys stock worth $30,122,000 after purchasing an additional 3,780 shares during the period. Finally, Phoenix Holdings Ltd. boosted its stake in Vanguard S&P 500 ETF by 1.3% in the 3rd quarter. Phoenix Holdings Ltd. now owns 6,150 shares of the companys stock worth $2,422,000 after purchasing an additional 79 shares during the period.

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Vanguard S&P 500 ETF Stock Performance

NYSEARCA VOO traded down $1.23 on Tuesday, reaching $476.71. The company had a trading volume of 8,059,671 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,326,480. The companys fifty day moving average is $460.58 and its 200-day moving average is $428.94. Vanguard S&P 500 ETF has a 1-year low of $361.68 and a 1-year high of $483.23. The firm has a market capitalization of $381.38 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.80 and a beta of 1.00.

About Vanguard S&P 500 ETF

Vanguard 500 Index Fund (the Fund) is an open-end investment company, or mutual fund. The Fund offers four classes of shares: Investor Shares, Admiral Shares, Signal Shares, and Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) Shares. The Fund seeks to track the investment performance of the Standard & Poors 500 Index, an unmanaged benchmark representing the United States large-capitalization stocks.

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Vision Capital Management Inc. grew its stake in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:IVV  Free Report) by 1.6% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 122,520 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 1,910 shares during the quarter. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF accounts for about 9.1% of Vision Capital Management Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its biggest holding. Vision Capital Management Inc.s holdings in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF were worth $58,519,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. CGC Financial Services LLC purchased a new stake in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $30,000. Studio Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF in the 4th quarter worth approximately $33,000. Horizon Bancorp Inc. IN purchased a new position in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $40,000. Harel Insurance Investments & Financial Services Ltd. purchased a new position in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $41,000. Finally, Financial Freedom LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $52,000.

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iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Stock Performance

Shares of NYSEARCA:IVV traded down $1.10 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $521.18. 5,879,720 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 5,871,036. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF has a 1 year low of $395.40 and a 1 year high of $526.66. The company has a market cap of $403.21 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.43 and a beta of 1.00. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $502.66 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $468.43.

About iShares Core S&P 500 ETF

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Standard & Poors 500 Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the large-capitalization sector of the United States equity market.

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Kozak & Associates Inc. lessened its holdings in General Electric (NYSE:GE  Free Report) by 4.8% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 3,366 shares of the conglomerates stock after selling 170 shares during the period. Kozak & Associates Inc.s holdings in General Electric were worth $431,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of GE. O Shaughnessy Asset Management LLC lifted its position in General Electric by 10.9% during the 3rd quarter. O Shaughnessy Asset Management LLC now owns 109,332 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $12,087,000 after acquiring an additional 10,722 shares during the last quarter. D1 Capital Partners L.P. lifted its position in General Electric by 159.8% during the 2nd quarter. D1 Capital Partners L.P. now owns 1,455,000 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $159,832,000 after acquiring an additional 895,000 shares during the last quarter. Hoey Investments Inc. lifted its position in General Electric by 51,152.3% during the 3rd quarter. Hoey Investments Inc. now owns 22,551 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $2,493,000 after acquiring an additional 22,507 shares during the last quarter. Qsemble Capital Management LP bought a new position in shares of General Electric during the 3rd quarter worth about $1,846,000. Finally, Cambridge Financial Group Inc. acquired a new position in shares of General Electric during the third quarter valued at about $6,285,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.77% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity

In related news, SVP Michael J. Holston sold 22,055 shares of General Electric stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $144.87, for a total transaction of $3,195,107.85. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 56,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,153,863.08. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In related news, SVP Michael J. Holston sold 13,601 shares of General Electric stock in a transaction dated 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 of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,552,351.45. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, SVP Michael J. Holston sold 22,055 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $144.87, for a total transaction of $3,195,107.85. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 56,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,153,863.08. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 0.66% of the companys stock.

General Electric Stock Up 0.1 %

GE stock traded up $0.11 during midday trading on Tuesday, hitting $173.60. The companys stock had a trading volume of 4,033,040 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,947,899. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69, a current ratio of 1.18 and a quick ratio of 0.85. General Electric has a twelve month low of $92.11 and a twelve month high of $177.50. The companys fifty day moving average price is $149.60 and its 200 day moving average price is $128.58. The stock has a market capitalization of $189.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.74, a PEG ratio of 2.32 and a beta of 1.28.

General Electric (NYSE:GE  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, January 23rd. The conglomerate reported $1.03 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.90 by $0.13. General Electric had a net margin of 13.95% and a return on equity of 10.88%. The company had revenue of $19.42 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.27 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.24 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 15.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts predict that General Electric will post 4.57 EPS for the current year.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Barclays upped their price objective on shares of General Electric from $153.00 to $181.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, February 29th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price objective on shares of General Electric from $148.00 to $170.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, March 1st. Jefferies Financial Group upped their price objective on shares of General Electric from $180.00 to $195.00 in a research report on Monday, March 11th. Oppenheimer reaffirmed a market perform rating on shares of General Electric in a research report on Tuesday, March 5th. Finally, Citigroup increased their price target on shares of General Electric from $135.00 to $148.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, December 11th. Two equities 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, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $146.54.

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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.

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Trust Co of the South bought a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF (NYSEARCA:EFA  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund bought 4,097 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $309,000.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of EFA. FLC Capital Advisors acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $202,000. Indiana Trust & Investment Management CO purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $1,404,000. Koss Olinger Consulting LLC increased its position in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 12.7% in the 3rd quarter. Koss Olinger Consulting LLC now owns 8,190 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $564,000 after purchasing an additional 921 shares during the last quarter. ARQ Wealth Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 10.7% in the 3rd quarter. ARQ Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 4,642 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $320,000 after purchasing an additional 450 shares during the last quarter. Finally, New Republic Capital LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $5,204,000. 79.80% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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iShares MSCI EAFE ETF Trading Up 0.1 %

Shares of NYSEARCA EFA traded up $0.09 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $79.56. The company had a trading volume of 12,316,138 shares, compared to its average volume of 14,823,352. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $76.63 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $73.07. iShares MSCI EAFE ETF has a 52-week low of $65.68 and a 52-week high of $80.03.

About iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Funds investment objective is to seek investment results that correspond to the price and yield performance of its underlying index, MSCI EAFE Index (the Index). The Index has been developed by MSCI Inc as an equity benchmark for its international stock performance.

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China's top legislator meets Nauruan president

Xinhua) 11:14, March 27, 2024

Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, meets with Nauruan President David Adeang in Beijing, capital of China, March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- China's top legislator Zhao Leji met with Nauruan President David Adeang Tuesday in Beijing.

Zhao, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said that China stands ready to work with Nauru to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, consolidate political mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and enhance people-to-people exchanges to better benefit the two peoples, Zhao said.

China is advancing the building of a strong country and the great cause of national rejuvenation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization, said Zhao, adding that this will bring new development opportunities to countries around the world, including Nauru. China welcomes Nauru aboard the express train of China's development, Zhao said.

Zhao said that the NPC of China stands ready to work with the parliament of Nauru to enhance communication at all levels, formulate or improve legal documents conducive to bilateral cooperation, share experience in reform and development and the construction of the rule of law.

Adeang said that the resumption of diplomatic relations with China is a firm political decision of the Nauruan government and parliament.

Nauru is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in various fields, intensify exchanges between legislative bodies and continuously deepen friendship between the two peoples, said Adeang.

Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, meets with Nauruan President David Adeang in Beijing, capital of China, March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Wednesday made remarks on the Dasu bomb attack in Pakistan, saying that China strongly condemns this terrorist attack, and asks Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the incident as soon as possible.

The spokesperson said that at around 1 p.m. local time on March 26, five Chinese and one Pakistani national were killed in a terrorist attack on the convoy of the Dasu Hydropower Project undertaken by a Chinese company in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

China strongly condemns this terrorist attack. We express deep condolences to the deceased and extend sincere sympathies to the bereaved families. China asks Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the incident as soon as possible, hunt down the perpetrators, and bring them to justice, said the spokesperson.

"Meanwhile, we ask Pakistan to take effective measures to ensure the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions in Pakistan. China is working with Pakistan on the follow-up operation with an all-out effort," said the spokesperson.

The spokesperson noted that the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan has reminded Chinese citizens and businesses in Pakistan to closely follow the local security situation, strengthen security measures, and do their best to take extra safety precautions against terrorist attacks.

On the afternoon of March 26, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif visited the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan to convey condolences and sympathize with the deceased families and the Chinese government. He strongly condemned the terrorist attack and said that terrorists' despicable efforts to harm Pakistan-China friendship will never succeed. On the same day, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, foreign minister, interior minister, and several other political figures strongly condemned the attack and offered condolences to the deceased.

China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners and iron-clad friends, and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) greatly contributes to the socioeconomic development of Pakistan. Any attempt to undermine China-Pakistan cooperation will never succeed. China opposes all forms of terrorism and firmly supports Pakistan in fighting terrorism. China will work with Pakistan even more firmly to fully ensure the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions in Pakistan, said the spokesperson. 
Trust Co of the South acquired a new position in shares of Truist Financial Co. (NYSE:TFC  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 26,078 shares of the insurance providers stock, valued at approximately $963,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of TFC. Fairfield Bush & CO. purchased a new position in Truist Financial during the 1st quarter worth $25,000. OFI Invest Asset Management purchased a new position in Truist Financial in the third quarter worth about $26,000. Operose Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Truist Financial during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Quarry LP purchased a new position in shares of Truist Financial during the first quarter valued at $32,000. Finally, Tyler Stone Wealth Management acquired a new stake in shares of Truist Financial during the third quarter worth about $33,000. 71.28% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have recently commented on the company. TheStreet downgraded Truist Financial from a b- rating to a c rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 20th. Odeon Capital Group upgraded Truist Financial from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $40.45 price objective for the company in a research note on Thursday, December 14th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price objective on Truist Financial from $40.00 to $42.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, January 19th. Piper Sandler upped their price target on Truist Financial from $37.00 to $38.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, January 19th. Finally, Bank of America upgraded Truist Financial from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $43.00 price target for the company in a report on Thursday, January 4th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Truist Financial currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $39.47.

Insider Transactions at Truist Financial

In other news, Director K. David Jr. Boyer sold 3,764 shares of Truist Financial stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $37.48, for a total value of $141,074.72. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 16,132 shares in the company, valued at $604,627.36. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. 0.17% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Truist Financial Price Performance

NYSE TFC remained flat at $37.60 on Tuesday. 5,724,708 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 9,977,518. The firm has a market cap of $50.18 billion, a PE ratio of -34.81, a PEG ratio of 1.61 and a beta of 1.07. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $36.33 and a 200-day moving average price of $33.33. Truist Financial Co. has a twelve month low of $25.56 and a twelve month high of $38.55. The company has a current ratio of 0.82, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74.

Truist Financial (NYSE:TFC  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, January 18th. The insurance provider reported $0.81 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.68 by $0.13. Truist Financial had a positive return on equity of 9.64% and a negative net margin of 3.28%. The business had revenue of $5.70 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.70 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.30 earnings per share. As a group, analysts anticipate that Truist Financial Co. will post 3.35 EPS for the current year.

Truist Financial Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 9th were paid a dividend of $0.52 per share. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.53%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 8th. Truist Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently -192.59%.

Truist Financial Company Profile

(Free Report)

Truist Financial Corporation, a financial services company, provides banking and trust services in the Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic United States. The company operates through three segments: Consumer Banking and Wealth, Corporate and Commercial Banking, and Insurance Holdings. Its deposit products include noninterest-bearing checking, interest-bearing checking, savings, and money market deposit accounts, as well as certificates of deposit and individual retirement accounts.

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Waterway Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of 3M (NYSE:MMM  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 2,963 shares of the conglomerates stock, valued at approximately $324,000.

Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Financial Freedom LLC acquired a new position in shares of 3M in the 4th quarter valued at $25,000. DHJJ Financial Advisors Ltd. purchased a new position in shares of 3M in the 3rd quarter valued at about $28,000. Briaud Financial Planning Inc purchased a new position in shares of 3M in the 3rd quarter valued at about $35,000. Authentikos Wealth Advisory LLC purchased a new position in 3M during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $37,000. Finally, CGC Financial Services LLC grew its stake in 3M by 89.9% during the 4th quarter. CGC Financial Services LLC now owns 338 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $37,000 after buying an additional 160 shares during the last quarter. 65.25% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Activity at 3M

In other news, insider Rodriguez Beatriz Karin Chavez sold 426 shares of 3M stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $92.32, for a total transaction of $39,328.32. Following the sale, the insider now owns 3,966 shares in the company, valued at $366,141.12. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.51% of the companys stock.

3M Trading Down 2.1 %

Shares of NYSE:MMM traded down $2.21 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $102.63. The companys stock had a trading volume of 6,086,275 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,140,120. The firm has a market cap of $56.72 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -8.13, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.51 and a beta of 1.00. The company has a quick ratio of 0.76, a current ratio of 1.07 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.69. 3M has a 1 year low of $85.35 and a 1 year high of $113.14. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $96.99 and a 200 day moving average price of $97.76.

3M (NYSE:MMM  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, January 23rd. The conglomerate reported $2.42 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.31 by $0.11. The firm had revenue of $8.01 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.69 billion. 3M had a negative net margin of 21.40% and a positive return on equity of 62.45%. The companys revenue was down 1.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $2.28 EPS. Research analysts forecast that 3M will post 9.77 EPS for the current year.

3M Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, March 12th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 16th were paid a $1.51 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 15th. This represents a $6.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.89%. This is a positive change from 3Ms previous quarterly dividend of $1.50. 3Ms dividend payout ratio (DPR) is -47.82%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts recently issued reports on the company. Royal Bank of Canada restated an underperform rating and set a $84.00 price target on shares of 3M in a research note on Wednesday, March 20th. Barclays upgraded 3M from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and lifted their target price for the company from $111.00 to $126.00 in a research note on Tuesday, March 19th. Mizuho reduced their price target on 3M from $120.00 to $105.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. StockNews.com began coverage on 3M in a report on Tuesday, March 19th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price target on 3M from $112.00 to $105.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, 3M currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $107.60.

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3M Company Profile

(Free Report)

3M Company provides diversified technology services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through four segments: Safety and Industrial; Transportation and Electronics; Health Care; and Consumer. The Safety and Industrial segment offers industrial abrasives and finishing for metalworking applications; autobody repair solutions; closure systems for personal hygiene products, masking, and packaging materials; electrical products and materials for construction and maintenance, power distribution, and electrical original equipment manufacturers; structural adhesives and tapes; respiratory, hearing, eye, and fall protection solutions; and natural and color-coated mineral granules for shingles.

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Waterway Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (NYSE:DGX  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund purchased 3,043 shares of the medical research companys stock, valued at approximately $420,000.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of Quest Diagnostics by 4.8% in the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 14,014,030 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $1,917,961,000 after buying an additional 636,301 shares during the period. American Century Companies Inc. boosted its holdings in Quest Diagnostics by 12.3% in the third quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 3,554,517 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $433,153,000 after purchasing an additional 388,162 shares during the last quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Quest Diagnostics by 5.6% in the third quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 3,414,514 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $416,093,000 after purchasing an additional 180,889 shares during the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its holdings in Quest Diagnostics by 14.6% in the third quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 2,613,793 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $318,517,000 after purchasing an additional 333,947 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in Quest Diagnostics by 3.1% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 2,422,912 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $339,688,000 after purchasing an additional 72,447 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 87.76% of the companys stock.

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Quest Diagnostics Stock Performance

DGX traded down $0.47 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $128.81. The companys stock had a trading volume of 666,194 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,061,120. Quest Diagnostics Incorporated has a fifty-two week low of $119.59 and a fifty-two week high of $148.62. The company has a current ratio of 1.31, a quick ratio of 1.20 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.70. The firm has a market capitalization of $14.26 billion, a PE ratio of 17.20, a PEG ratio of 2.79 and a beta of 0.90. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $127.71 and a 200 day simple moving average of $130.13.

Quest Diagnostics Increases Dividend

Quest Diagnostics ( NYSE:DGX Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 1st. The medical research company reported $2.15 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.11 by $0.04. Quest Diagnostics had a return on equity of 15.79% and a net margin of 9.23%. The company had revenue of $2.29 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.25 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.98 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 1.9% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Quest Diagnostics Incorporated will post 8.75 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 22nd. Stockholders of record on Monday, April 8th will be paid a dividend of $0.75 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, April 5th. This is a positive change from Quest Diagnosticss previous quarterly dividend of $0.71. This represents a $3.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.33%. Quest Diagnosticss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 37.92%.

Insider Transactions at Quest Diagnostics

In other news, SVP Michael E. Prevoznik sold 5,611 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $125.88, for a total value of $706,312.68. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 38,478 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,843,610.64. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In related news, SVP Michael E. Prevoznik sold 661 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $126.14, for a total transaction of $83,378.54. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 40,206 shares in the company, valued at $5,071,584.84. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Michael E. Prevoznik sold 5,611 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $125.88, for a total value of $706,312.68. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 38,478 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,843,610.64. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 15,150 shares of company stock valued at $1,913,202 in the last three months. 1.70% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages recently commented on DGX. SVB Leerink began coverage on Quest Diagnostics in a report on Monday, February 26th. They issued a market perform rating and a $135.00 price target for the company. StockNews.com downgraded Quest Diagnostics from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, February 1st. Truist Financial reaffirmed a hold rating and set a $145.00 target price on shares of Quest Diagnostics in a report on Wednesday, March 20th. UBS Group increased their target price on Quest Diagnostics from $135.00 to $137.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, December 7th. Finally, Barclays began coverage on Quest Diagnostics in a report on Wednesday, January 3rd. They set an equal weight rating and a $145.00 target price on the stock. Ten research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Quest Diagnostics presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $144.18.

Read Our Latest Analysis on Quest Diagnostics

About Quest Diagnostics

(Free Report)

Quest Diagnostics Incorporated provides diagnostic testing and services in the United States and internationally. The company develops and delivers diagnostic information services, such as routine, non-routine and advanced clinical testing, anatomic pathology testing, and other diagnostic information services.

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Altfest L J & Co. Inc. increased its position in The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW  Free Report) by 9.1% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 27,769 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 2,323 shares during the quarter. Altfest L J & Co. Inc.s holdings in Charles Schwab were worth $1,910,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Sugarloaf Wealth Management LLC lifted its stake in Charles Schwab by 60.0% in the 4th quarter. Sugarloaf Wealth Management LLC now owns 440 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 165 shares in the last quarter. Hall Laurie J Trustee purchased a new stake in Charles Schwab in the 4th quarter worth $34,000. Worth Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in Charles Schwab in the 1st quarter worth $32,000. Providence Capital Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Charles Schwab in the 3rd quarter worth $28,000. Finally, CVA Family Office LLC purchased a new stake in Charles Schwab in the 4th quarter worth $42,000. Institutional investors own 84.38% of the companys stock.

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Charles Schwab Trading Up 1.1 %

NYSE:SCHW traded up $0.79 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $71.79. 2,608,058 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 7,758,233. The stock has a market capitalization of $127.32 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.13, a PEG ratio of 1.37 and a beta of 1.00. The Charles Schwab Co. has a 52 week low of $45.65 and a 52 week high of $72.94. The firms 50 day moving average is $65.29 and its two-hundred day moving average is $61.10. The company has a quick ratio of 0.43, a current ratio of 0.43 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.82.

Charles Schwab Announces Dividend

Charles Schwab ( NYSE:SCHW Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, January 17th. The financial services provider reported $0.68 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.64 by $0.04. Charles Schwab had a net margin of 26.90% and a return on equity of 21.33%. The firm had revenue of $4.46 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.49 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.07 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue 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 year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, February 23rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 9th were paid a dividend of $0.25 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 8th. This represents a $1.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.39%. Charles Schwabs dividend payout ratio is presently 39.37%.

Insider Activity

In related news, insider Nigel J. Murtagh sold 29,991 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $67.80, for a total transaction of $2,033,389.80. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 81,446 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,522,038.80. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In related news, insider Nigel J. Murtagh sold 29,991 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $67.80, for a total transaction of $2,033,389.80. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 81,446 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,522,038.80. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CFO Peter B. Crawford sold 4,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, January 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $64.49, for a total transaction of $257,960.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 37,611 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,425,533.39. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 216,584 shares of company stock worth $14,200,769. Corporate insiders own 6.60% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several analysts have commented on the stock. JMP Securities reiterated a market outperform rating and issued a $77.00 price target on shares of Charles Schwab in a research note on Thursday, January 18th. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Charles Schwab from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, March 15th. Barclays upped their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $64.00 to $68.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 21st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut shares of Charles Schwab from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and decreased their target price for the company from $75.00 to $70.00 in a research report on Thursday, January 18th. Finally, Citigroup cut shares of Charles Schwab from a buy rating to a neutral rating and decreased their target price for the company from $75.00 to $70.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Charles Schwab has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $71.12.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Charles Schwab

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 in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Investor Services and Advisor Services.

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Shares of Altus Power, Inc. (NYSE:AMPS  Get Free Report) were up 6.1% during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $4.75 and last traded at $4.73. Approximately 245,739 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 77% from the average daily volume of 1,088,071 shares. The stock had previously closed at $4.46.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

AMPS has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. B. Riley raised their price target on shares of Altus Power from $8.00 to $10.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 5th. Northland Securities assumed coverage on Altus Power in a research report on Thursday, November 30th. They set an outperform rating and a $10.00 price objective for the company. Morgan Stanley dropped their price objective on shares of Altus Power from $11.00 to $9.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, December 8th. Finally, Roth Mkm dropped their price target on shares of Altus Power from $8.00 to $7.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, March 15th. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $8.63.

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Altus Power Price Performance

Insider Transactions at Altus Power

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.33, a current ratio of 2.15 and a quick ratio of 2.15. The company has a market cap of $754.04 million, a PE ratio of -67.85 and a beta of 0.95. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $5.97 and a 200-day moving average price of $5.72.

In other news, CEO Lars Norell sold 40,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $6.81, for a total transaction of $272,400.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 21,694,907 shares in the company, valued at approximately $147,742,316.67. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In related news, insider Anthony Savino sold 34,725 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $7.02, for a total value of $243,769.50. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 3,907,536 shares in the company, valued at approximately $27,430,902.72. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, CEO Lars Norell sold 40,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, January 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $6.81, for a total transaction of $272,400.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 21,694,907 shares of the companys stock, valued at $147,742,316.67. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 144,673 shares of company stock valued at $950,978 in the last three months. Corporate insiders own 31.55% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Altus Power

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. abrdn plc boosted its position in shares of Altus Power by 1,217.7% in the third quarter. abrdn plc now owns 619,300 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,251,000 after acquiring an additional 572,300 shares during the period. ANTIPODES PARTNERS Ltd grew its position in Altus Power by 292.1% in the 3rd quarter. ANTIPODES PARTNERS Ltd now owns 25,503 shares of the companys stock worth $127,000 after purchasing an additional 18,999 shares during the last quarter. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ grew its position in Altus Power by 2.0% during the third quarter. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ now owns 678,732 shares of the companys stock worth $3,563,000 after buying an additional 13,500 shares in the last quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. lifted its stake in Altus Power by 7.5% during the third quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 50,933 shares of the companys stock worth $267,000 after purchasing an additional 3,571 shares during the period. Finally, DAVENPORT & Co LLC bought a new stake in Altus Power during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $580,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 46.55% of the companys stock.

Altus Power Company Profile

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Altus Power, Inc, a clean electrification company, develops, owns, constructs, and operates roof, ground, and carport-based photovoltaic solar energy generation and storage systems. It serves commercial, industrial, public sector, and community solar customers. Altus Power, Inc was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut.

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The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA  Get Free Report) shares shot up 0.9% during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $196.18 and last traded at $190.54. 6,785,547 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 35% from the average session volume of 10,485,919 shares. The stock had previously closed at $188.85.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

BA has been the subject of several analyst reports. Northcoast Research lowered shares of Boeing from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, February 23rd. Bank of America reduced their price target on Boeing from $225.00 to $210.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, March 21st. William Blair started coverage on Boeing in a research note on Tuesday, December 12th. They set an outperform rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada lowered their price target on Boeing from $285.00 to $260.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Thursday, February 1st. Finally, TD Cowen cut their price objective on shares of Boeing from $275.00 to $230.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Monday. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $242.65.

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Boeing Trading Down 2.0 %

The firm has a 50-day moving average of $201.07 and a two-hundred day moving average of $210.13.

Boeing (NYSE:BA  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, January 31st. The aircraft producer reported ($0.47) earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.72) by $0.25. The firm had revenue of $22.02 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $21.14 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned ($1.75) earnings per share. Boeings revenue for the quarter was up 10.2% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities analysts predict that The Boeing Company will post 1.55 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. CNB Bank raised its holdings in Boeing by 106.5% in the 3rd quarter. CNB Bank now owns 128 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 66 shares during the period. Vermillion & White Wealth Management Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of Boeing during the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. Evolution Advisers Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Boeing during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $28,000. DiNuzzo Private Wealth Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Boeing during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $28,000. Finally, VisionPoint Advisory Group LLC purchased a new stake in Boeing in the 2nd quarter worth $32,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 64.82% of the companys stock.

Boeing Company Profile

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The Boeing Company, together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, sells, services, and supports commercial jetliners, military aircraft, satellites, missile defense, human space flight and launch systems, and services worldwide. The company operates through Commercial Airplanes; Defense, Space & Security; and Global Services segments.

Further Reading

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Shares of Brandywine Realty Trust (NYSE:BDN  Get Free Report) have earned an average rating of Moderate Buy from the four analysts that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and two have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month target price among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $5.63.

Several equities research analysts have issued reports on BDN shares. Truist Financial dropped their price objective on Brandywine Realty Trust from $7.00 to $6.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, February 13th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft initiated coverage on Brandywine Realty Trust in a report on Tuesday, January 30th. They issued a hold rating and a $5.50 price target for the company. Finally, StockNews.com downgraded Brandywine Realty Trust from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Tuesday, January 30th.

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Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Brandywine Realty Trust Stock Performance

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in BDN. Citigroup Inc. boosted its position in Brandywine Realty Trust by 17.1% during the 1st quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 294,304 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $4,161,000 after purchasing an additional 42,928 shares during the period. Natixis Advisors L.P. boosted its position in Brandywine Realty Trust by 23.0% during the 1st quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 42,369 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $599,000 after acquiring an additional 7,935 shares during the period. Bank of Montreal Can boosted its position in Brandywine Realty Trust by 15.1% during the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 60,243 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $866,000 after acquiring an additional 7,924 shares during the period. MetLife Investment Management LLC boosted its position in Brandywine Realty Trust by 55.1% during the 1st quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 90,395 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,278,000 after acquiring an additional 32,106 shares during the period. Finally, Rhumbline Advisers boosted its position in Brandywine Realty Trust by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 510,543 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $7,219,000 after acquiring an additional 3,250 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.27% of the companys stock.

Shares of NYSE:BDN opened at $4.56 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $785.41 million, a P/E ratio of -3.97 and a beta of 1.26. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.62, a quick ratio of 2.15 and a current ratio of 2.15. Brandywine Realty Trust has a one year low of $3.42 and a one year high of $5.67. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $4.46 and its 200 day simple moving average is $4.54.

Brandywine Realty Trust Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, April 18th. Investors of record on Thursday, April 4th will be given a dividend of $0.15 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, April 3rd. This represents a $0.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 13.16%. Brandywine Realty Trusts dividend payout ratio is currently -52.17%.

About Brandywine Realty Trust

(Get Free Report

Brandywine Realty Trust (NYSE: BDN) is one of the largest, publicly traded, full-service, integrated real estate companies in the United States with a core focus in the Philadelphia and Austin markets. Organized as a real estate investment trust (REIT), we own, develop, lease and manage an urban, town center and transit-oriented portfolio comprising 160 properties and 22.6 million square feet as of September 30, 2023 which excludes assets held for sale.

Further Reading

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Budweiser Brewing Company APAC Limited (OTCMKTS:BDWBF  Get Free Report) was the target of a large drop in short interest in the month of March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 1,478,000 shares, a drop of 92.0% from the February 29th total of 18,509,000 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 45,500 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 32.5 days.

Budweiser Brewing Company APAC Price Performance

Budweiser Brewing Company APAC stock remained flat at $1.49 during midday trading on Wednesday. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $1.55 and a 200-day simple moving average of $1.77. Budweiser Brewing Company APAC has a 52-week low of $1.48 and a 52-week high of $3.11.

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About Budweiser Brewing Company APAC

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Budweiser Brewing Company APAC Limited, an investment holding company, produces, imports, markets, distributes, and sells beer and other non-beer beverages primarily in China, South Korea, India, Vietnam, and the other Asia Pacific regions. It offers a portfolio of beer brands, including Budweiser, Stella Artois, Corona, Hoegaarden, Cass, and Harbin.

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Canadian Utilities Limited (TSE:CU  Get Free Report) insider Sentgraf Enterprises Ltd. sold 50,196 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of C$30.77, for a total transaction of C$1,544,530.92.

Canadian Utilities Price Performance

CU stock traded down C$0.11 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting C$30.63. The stock had a trading volume of 117,307 shares, compared to its average volume of 507,071. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of C$30.77 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$30.72. The firm has a market capitalization of C$6.26 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.19, a P/E/G ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 0.60. Canadian Utilities Limited has a 52 week low of C$28.13 and a 52 week high of C$39.87. The company has a current ratio of 1.01, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 147.99.

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Canadian Utilities (TSE:CU  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 29th. The company reported C$0.71 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of C$0.69 by C$0.02. Canadian Utilities had a net margin of 18.63% and a return on equity of 10.08%. The firm had revenue of C$974.00 million during the quarter. As a group, research analysts forecast that Canadian Utilities Limited will post 2.3534813 EPS for the current year.

Canadian Utilities Increases Dividend

Canadian Utilities Company Profile

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Shareholders of record on Thursday, February 1st were paid a dividend of $0.453 per share. This represents a $1.81 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.92%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, January 31st. This is a positive change from Canadian Utilitiess previous quarterly dividend of $0.45. Canadian Utilitiess payout ratio is 77.68%.

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Canadian Utilities Limited, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the electricity, natural gas, and retail energy businesses in the United States, Australia, and internationally. It operates through Utilities, Energy Infrastructure, and Corporate & Other segments. The Utilities segment provides regulated electricity transmission and distribution services in northern and central east Alberta, the Yukon, and the Northwest Territories; and integrated natural gas transmission and distribution services in Alberta, the Lloydminster area of Saskatchewan, and Western Australia.

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CCL Industries (OTCMKTS:CCDBF  Get Free Report) and Greif (NYSE:GEF  Get Free Report) are both consumer cyclical companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their risk, profitability, earnings, dividends, analyst recommendations, valuation and institutional ownership.

Profitability

This table compares CCL Industries and Greifs net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets CCL Industries N/A N/A N/A Greif 6.53% 18.65% 6.23%

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares CCL Industries and Greifs revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio CCL Industries N/A N/A N/A $5.45 9.46 Greif $5.22 billion 0.60 $359.20 million $5.78 11.57

Dividends

Greif has higher revenue and earnings than CCL Industries. CCL Industries is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Greif, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

CCL Industries pays an annual dividend of $1.02 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.0%. Greif pays an annual dividend of $2.08 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.1%. CCL Industries pays out 18.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Greif pays out 36.0% 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. Greif has increased its dividend for 3 consecutive years. Greif is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of recent recommendations for CCL Industries and Greif, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score CCL Industries 0 1 0 0 2.00 Greif 0 1 2 0 2.67

CCL Industries currently has a consensus price target of $77.67, indicating a potential upside of 50.58%. Greif has a consensus price target of $79.33, indicating a potential upside of 18.64%. Given CCL Industries higher possible upside, research analysts plainly believe CCL Industries is more favorable than Greif.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

37.2% of CCL Industries shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 45.7% of Greif shares are owned by institutional investors. 3.1% of Greif shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Summary

Greif beats CCL Industries on 12 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

About CCL Industries

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CCL Industries Inc. manufactures and sells labels, consumer printable media products, technology-driven label solutions, polymer banknote substrates, and specialty films in Canada, the United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and New Zealand. It operates through four segments: CCL, Avery, Checkpoint, and Innovia. The CCL segment offers pressure sensitive and extruded film materials for decorative, instructional, security, and functional applications in the consumer packaging, healthcare, chemicals, consumer durables, electronic device, and automotive markets. This segment also provides extruded and labeled plastic tubes, aluminum aerosols and specialty bottles, folded instructional leaflets, precision decorated and die cut components, electronic displays, polymer banknote substrate, and other complementary products and services. The Avery segment offers printable media products, including address and shipping labels, marketing and product identification labels, indexes and dividers, business cards, and name badges supported by customized software solutions; and organizational products, such as binders, sheet protectors, and writing instruments. This segment also provides direct to consumer digitally imaged media products, such as labels, business cards, name badges, and family oriented identification labels supported by unique web-enabled e-commerce URLs. The Checkpoint segment offers technology-driven loss-prevention, inventory management, and labelling solutions, including radio frequency and radio-frequency identification solutions to retail and apparel industries. The Innovia segment provides specialty, high-performance, multi-layer, and surface engineered biaxially oriented polypropylene films for pressure sensitive label materials, flexible packaging, and consumer packaged goods industries. CCL Industries Inc. was founded in 1951 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

About Greif

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Greif, Inc. engages in the production and sale of industrial packaging products and services worldwide. The company operates through Global Industrial Packaging; Paper Packaging & Services; and Land Management segments. The Global Industrial Packaging segment produces and sells industrial packaging products, including steel, fiber, and plastic drums; rigid and flexible intermediate bulk containers; closure systems for industrial packaging products; transit protection products; water bottles, and remanufactured and reconditioned industrial containers; and various services, such as container life cycle management, filling, logistics, warehousing, and other packaging services to chemicals, paints and pigments, food and beverage, petroleum, industrial coatings, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, mineral product, and other industries. The Paper Packaging & Services segment produces and sells containerboards, corrugated sheets and containers, and other corrugated and specialty products to customers in the packaging, automotive, food, and building products markets; and produces and sells coated and uncoated recycled paperboard, and recycled fiber. This segment's corrugated container products are used to ship various products, such as home appliances, small machinery, grocery products, automotive components, books, and furniture, as well as various other applications. The Land Management segment engages in harvesting and regeneration of timber properties; and sale of timberland and special use properties. As of October 31, 2023, this segment owned approximately 175,000 acres of timber properties in the southeastern United States. The company was formerly known as Greif Bros. Corporation and changed its name to Greif, Inc. in 2001. Greif, Inc. was founded in 1877 and is headquartered in Delaware, Ohio.

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PHNOM PENH, March 27 (Xinhua) -- The value of imports and exports passing through the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone (SSEZ) in Cambodia hit 628 million U.S. dollars in the first two months of 2024, up 38.3 percent compared to the same period in 2023, the zone operator said in a news release.

Jointly ventured by Chinese and Cambodian investors, the SSEZ is a flagship project under China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

"The growth indicates that the SSEZ is one of the key catalysts for Cambodia's development," the news release said.

Since the start of 2024, the 11-square-km SSEZ had attracted eight new enterprises, bringing the total number of the enterprises in the zone to 188 so far, with more than 30,000 jobs created, it added.

Neak Chandarith, director of the Cambodia 21st Century Maritime Silk Road Research Center, said Wednesday that the SSEZ is situated near the deep-water Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, which is very convenient for trade exchange between Cambodia and the rest of the world.

"This economic zone has contributed to boosting Cambodia's economic growth and creating a lot of jobs for local people," he told Xinhua.

"The SSEZ, together with other flagship BRI projects, has been playing a crucial role in helping Cambodia achieve its ambitious targets of becoming an upper-middle income country by 2030 and a high-income nation by 2050."

Founded in 2008, the SSEZ is expected to accommodate up to 300 enterprises in coming years which can generate up to 100,000 jobs for local people. 
CMC Markets (LON:CMCX  Get Free Report)s stock had its hold rating reiterated by investment analysts at Shore Capital in a report released on Wednesday, Digital Look reports.

CMC Markets Stock Performance

Shares of CMCX stock traded up GBX 31.50 ($0.40) on Wednesday, hitting GBX 219.50 ($2.77). The company had a trading volume of 4,231,123 shares, compared to its average volume of 397,585. The firm has a market cap of 614.20 million, a P/E ratio of 5,487.50 and a beta of 0.49. CMC Markets has a twelve month low of GBX 86.90 ($1.10) and a twelve month high of GBX 221.50 ($2.80). The company has a quick ratio of 2.47, a current ratio of 2.35 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.48. The company has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 159.74 and a 200-day moving average price of GBX 122.13.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other CMC Markets news, insider David Fineberg purchased 178 shares of CMC Markets stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 5th. The stock was bought at an average price of GBX 169 ($2.14) per share, with a total value of 300.82 ($380.16). In related news, insider Albert Soleiman purchased 196 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 5th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of GBX 153 ($1.93) per share, for a total transaction of 299.88 ($378.97). Also, insider David Fineberg purchased 178 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 5th. The stock was bought at an average price of GBX 169 ($2.14) per share, with a total value of 300.82 ($380.16). 64.85% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

About CMC Markets

CMC Markets plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides online retail financial services to retail, professional, stockbroking, and institutional clients in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, and internationally. The company offers its clients with the ability to trade contracts for difference and financial spread betting on a range of underlying shares, including indices, foreign currencies, commodities, and treasuries through its trading platform.

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Courier Capital LLC cut its stake in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:EFAV  Free Report) by 12.6% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 16,273 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,352 shares during the period. Courier Capital LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF were worth $1,128,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in EFAV. FMR LLC raised its stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF by 25.0% in the 3rd quarter. FMR LLC now owns 12,317,849 shares of the companys stock worth $803,370,000 after purchasing an additional 2,464,925 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF by 3.0% in the second quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 5,095,747 shares of the companys stock valued at $343,963,000 after buying an additional 150,430 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF by 5.0% in the third quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 5,012,372 shares of the companys stock valued at $326,907,000 after buying an additional 237,514 shares during the period. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV increased its stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF by 16.9% during the 3rd quarter. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV now owns 3,498,393 shares of the companys stock worth $228,165,000 after acquiring an additional 506,040 shares during the period. Finally, Morgan Stanley increased its stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF by 8.7% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 2,797,932 shares of the companys stock worth $177,907,000 after acquiring an additional 224,180 shares during the period.

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iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF Stock Down 0.0 %

Shares of BATS:EFAV traded down $0.02 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $70.76. 6,494,621 shares of the company traded hands. iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF has a 52 week low of $64.68 and a 52 week high of $76.51. The firm has a market capitalization of $7.94 billion, a PE ratio of 16.01 and a beta of 0.60. The companys 50 day moving average is $69.53 and its two-hundred day moving average is $67.74.

About iShares MSCI EAFE Min Vol Factor ETF

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.

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Shares of Crane (NYSE:CR  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $135.90 and last traded at $134.60, with a volume of 5127 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $133.90.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several analysts have recently commented on the stock. Bank of America raised their price objective on shares of Crane from $110.00 to $140.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 5th. Stifel Nicolaus raised their price objective on shares of Crane from $124.00 to $125.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Finally, StockNews.com raised shares of Crane from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Crane currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $113.67.

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Crane Stock Up 0.8 %

The company has a market capitalization of $7.71 billion, a PE ratio of 36.29, a PEG ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 1.49. The companys 50 day moving average is $124.44 and its two-hundred day moving average is $108.93. The company has a quick ratio of 0.88, a current ratio of 1.18 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29.

Crane (NYSE:CR  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, January 29th. The conglomerate reported $0.90 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.81 by $0.09. Crane had a net margin of 13.10% and a return on equity of 24.45%. The business had revenue of $532.90 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $519.55 million. On average, analysts anticipate that Crane will post 7.87 earnings per share for the current year.

Crane Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 13th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, February 29th were paid a $0.205 dividend. This is a boost from Cranes previous quarterly dividend of $0.18. This represents a $0.82 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.61%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, February 28th. Cranes dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 22.22%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Crane

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Crane by 8.0% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 14,853 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $1,608,000 after purchasing an additional 1,104 shares during the period. American Century Companies Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Crane by 3.0% during the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 10,432 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $1,129,000 after purchasing an additional 299 shares during the period. HighTower Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of Crane by 82.1% during the 1st quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 4,102 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $445,000 after purchasing an additional 1,849 shares during the period. Citigroup Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Crane by 4.7% during the 1st quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 7,856 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $851,000 after purchasing an additional 355 shares during the period. Finally, Bank of Montreal Can boosted its stake in shares of Crane by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 12,777 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $1,408,000 after purchasing an additional 136 shares during the period. 85.91% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Crane Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Crane Company, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells engineered industrial products in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, and internationally. The company operates in three segments: Aerospace & Electronics, Process Flow Technologies, and Engineered Materials.

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Eldorado Gold Co. (TSE:ELD  Get Free Report) (NYSE:EGO) shares hit a new 52-week high during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as C$19.00 and last traded at C$18.85, with a volume of 100838 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at C$18.44.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research analysts recently commented on ELD shares. Cormark dropped their target price on shares of Eldorado Gold from C$26.00 to C$25.00 in a report on Monday, February 26th. National Bankshares dropped their target price on shares of Eldorado Gold from C$21.00 to C$19.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, February 26th. BMO Capital Markets lifted their target price on shares of Eldorado Gold from C$17.00 to C$18.00 in a report on Wednesday, December 13th. National Bank Financial reiterated an outperform spec overweight rating on shares of Eldorado Gold in a report on Wednesday, January 3rd. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus downgraded shares of Eldorado Gold from a buy rating to a hold rating and lifted their target price for the stock from C$15.50 to C$17.25 in a report on Friday, January 26th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of C$18.06.

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Read Our Latest Research Report on Eldorado Gold

Eldorado Gold Stock Up 2.5 %

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 18.60, a quick ratio of 2.28 and a current ratio of 3.39. The company has a market capitalization of C$3.84 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.62, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 56.20 and a beta of 1.13. The firms 50-day simple moving average is C$16.25 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$15.51.

Eldorado Gold (TSE:ELD  Get Free Report) (NYSE:EGO) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 22nd. The company reported C$0.33 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of C$0.28 by C$0.05. The company had revenue of C$417.85 million for the quarter. Eldorado Gold had a net margin of 10.37% and a return on equity of 3.15%. Sell-side analysts forecast that Eldorado Gold Co. will post 0.9598263 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Activity

In other news, Director George Raymond Burns sold 13,434 shares of Eldorado Gold stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$14.87, for a total transaction of C$199,806.57. In other news, Senior Officer Mehmet Yilmaz sold 1,900 shares of Eldorado Gold stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of C$18.25, for a total transaction of C$34,675.00. Also, Director George Raymond Burns sold 13,434 shares of Eldorado Gold stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$14.87, for a total transaction of C$199,806.57. In the last three months, insiders have sold 41,338 shares of company stock worth $684,168. Corporate insiders own 0.69% of the companys stock.

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 mines located in Turkey; Lamaque complex 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.

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Harrington Investments INC boosted its position in Ormat Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:ORA  Free Report) by 3.2% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 6,510 shares of the energy companys stock after acquiring an additional 200 shares during the period. Harrington Investments INCs holdings in Ormat Technologies were worth $493,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. US Bancorp DE lifted its holdings in shares of Ormat Technologies by 10.5% in the 1st quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 3,963 shares of the energy companys stock worth $324,000 after purchasing an additional 375 shares in the last quarter. AlphaCrest Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in Ormat Technologies during the first quarter worth $360,000. Bank of Montreal Can lifted its stake in shares of Ormat Technologies by 2.5% in the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 14,424 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $1,150,000 after buying an additional 355 shares in the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Ormat Technologies by 57.7% during the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 24,095 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $1,972,000 after buying an additional 8,812 shares during the last quarter. Finally, BlackRock Inc. increased its position in shares of Ormat Technologies by 0.5% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 4,650,385 shares of the energy companys stock worth $380,541,000 after acquiring an additional 20,844 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 95.49% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

ORA has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. TD Cowen cut their price target on Ormat Technologies from $74.00 to $70.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, February 23rd. Barclays dropped their target price on Ormat Technologies from $82.00 to $75.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, February 5th. Finally, Oppenheimer decreased their price target on Ormat Technologies from $84.00 to $83.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Friday, January 19th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $82.00.

Ormat Technologies Stock Performance

Shares of ORA opened at $65.23 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $65.63 and a 200 day moving average of $68.10. The company has a market capitalization of $3.94 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.21, a PEG ratio of 1.39 and a beta of 0.48. Ormat Technologies, Inc. has a 12 month low of $58.73 and a 12 month high of $88.64. The company has a current ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 1.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64.

Ormat Technologies (NYSE:ORA  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 21st. The energy company reported $0.67 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.60 by $0.07. Ormat Technologies had a net margin of 15.00% and a return on equity of 5.09%. The company had revenue of $241.30 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $239.71 million. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.73 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 17.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Ormat Technologies, Inc. will post 2.3 earnings per share for the current year.

Ormat Technologies Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 20th. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 6th were issued a $0.12 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, March 5th. This represents a $0.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.74%. Ormat Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 22.97%.

Ormat Technologies Company Profile

(Free Report)

Ormat Technologies, Inc engages in the geothermal and recovered energy power business in the United States, Indonesia, Kenya, Turkey, Chile, Guatemala, Guadeloupe, New Zealand, Honduras, and internationally. It operates in 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.

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Canadian Natural Resources (NYSE:CNQ  Get Free Report) and Shell (NYSE:SHEL  Get Free Report) are both large-cap oils/energy companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their earnings, valuation, institutional ownership, risk, profitability, analyst recommendations and dividends.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Canadian Natural Resources and Shells top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Canadian Natural Resources $30.25 billion 2.67 $6.10 billion $5.54 13.56 Shell $316.62 billion 0.69 $19.36 billion $5.66 11.80

Shell has higher revenue and earnings than Canadian Natural Resources. Shell is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Canadian Natural Resources, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Canadian Natural Resources 0 4 2 0 2.33 Shell 0 2 1 0 2.33

This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for Canadian Natural Resources and Shell, as provided by MarketBeat.

Canadian Natural Resources presently has a consensus target price of $94.00, suggesting a potential upside of 25.17%. Shell has a consensus target price of $67.00, suggesting a potential upside of 0.36%. Given Canadian Natural Resources higher possible upside, equities research analysts clearly believe Canadian Natural Resources is more favorable than Shell.

Profitability

This table compares Canadian Natural Resources and Shells net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Canadian Natural Resources 20.15% 21.74% 11.25% Shell 5.99% 14.69% 6.79%

Dividends

Canadian Natural Resources pays an annual dividend of $2.95 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.9%. Shell pays an annual dividend of $2.75 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.1%. Canadian Natural Resources pays out 53.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Shell pays out 48.6% 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. Canadian Natural Resources has increased its dividend for 1 consecutive years and Shell has increased its dividend for 2 consecutive years. Shell is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Risk & Volatility

Canadian Natural Resources has a beta of 1.53, meaning that its share price is 53% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Shell has a beta of 0.61, meaning that its share price is 39% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

74.0% of Canadian Natural Resources shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 9.2% of Shell shares are owned by institutional investors. 5.0% of Canadian Natural Resources shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 1.0% of Shell shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Summary

Canadian Natural Resources beats Shell on 10 of the 16 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Canadian Natural Resources

(Get Free Report)

Canadian Natural Resources Limited acquires, explores for, develops, produces, markets, and sells crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids (NGLs). The company offers light and medium crude oil, primary heavy crude oil, Pelican Lake heavy crude oil, bitumen (thermal oil), and synthetic crude oil (SCO). The company's midstream assets include two pipeline systems; and a 50% working interest in an 84-megawatt cogeneration plant at Primrose. It operates primarily in Western Canada; the United Kingdom portion of the North Sea; and Offshore Africa. The company was formerly known as AEX Minerals Corporation and changed its name to Canadian Natural Resources Limited in December 1975. Canadian Natural Resources Limited was incorporated in 1973 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

About Shell

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Shell plc operates as an energy and petrochemical company Europe, Asia, Oceania, Africa, the United States, and Rest of the Americas. The company operates through Integrated Gas, Upstream, Marketing, Chemicals and Products, and Renewables and Energy Solutions segments. It explores for and extracts crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids; markets and transports oil and gas; produces gas-to-liquids fuels and other products; and operates upstream and midstream infrastructure necessary to deliver gas to market. The company also markets and trades natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), crude oil, electricity, carbon-emission rights; and markets and sells LNG as a fuel for heavy-duty vehicles. In addition, it trades in and refines crude oil and other feed stocks, such as low-carbon fuels, lubricants, bitumen, sulphur, gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel, and marine fuel; produces and sells petrochemicals for industrial use; and manages oil sands activities. Further, the company produces base chemicals comprising ethylene, propylene, and aromatics, as well as intermediate chemicals, such as styrene monomer, propylene oxide, solvents, detergent alcohols, ethylene oxide, and ethylene glycol. Additionally, it generates electricity through wind and solar resources; produces and sells hydrogen; and provides electric vehicle charging services. The company was formerly known as Royal Dutch Shell plc and changed its name to Shell plc in January 2022. Shell plc was founded in 1907 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.

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Impala Platinum Holdings Limited (OTCMKTS:IMPUY  Get Free Report) was the target of a large increase in short interest in March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 87,700 shares, an increase of 585.2% from the February 29th total of 12,800 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 858,600 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.1 days.

Impala Platinum Stock Performance

Shares of IMPUY stock traded down $0.11 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $4.15. The stock had a trading volume of 177,710 shares, compared to its average volume of 355,907. The company has a current ratio of 3.83, a quick ratio of 2.46 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.02. Impala Platinum has a one year low of $3.09 and a one year high of $10.46. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $3.74 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $4.22.

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About Impala Platinum

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Impala Platinum Holdings Limited engages in the mining, processing, concentrating, refining, and sale of platinum group metals (PGMs) and associated base metals. The company produces platinum, palladium, rhodium, nickel, and by-products, as well as ruthenium, iridium, and gold. It has operations on the PGM-bearing orebodies, including the Bushveld Complex located in South Africa; and the Great Dyke situated in Zimbabwe, as well as the Canadian Shield.

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of Insperity (NYSE:NSP  Free Report) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note released on Sunday.

Separately, TheStreet lowered Insperity from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Monday, February 12th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $115.00.

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Insperity Trading Down 0.1 %

NYSE:NSP opened at $105.63 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.95. Insperity has a 1-year low of $90.80 and a 1-year high of $131.09. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.94 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.00 and a beta of 1.13. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $103.92 and a 200 day simple moving average of $106.25.

Insperity (NYSE:NSP  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The business services provider reported $0.46 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.38 by $0.08. Insperity had a return on equity of 153.34% and a net margin of 2.64%. The business had revenue of $1.58 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.57 billion. Sell-side analysts forecast that Insperity will post 2.34 earnings per share for the current year.

Insperity Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, March 21st. Stockholders of record on Thursday, March 7th were paid a dividend of $0.57 per share. This represents a $2.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.16%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, March 6th. Insperitys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 51.12%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Insperity

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its stake in shares of Insperity by 129.9% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 724,095 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $72,714,000 after acquiring an additional 409,174 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Insperity in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $41,048,000. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA bought a new position in shares of Insperity in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $27,529,000. Mawer Investment Management Ltd. raised its stake in shares of Insperity by 5.6% in the 4th quarter. Mawer Investment Management Ltd. now owns 4,210,321 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $493,534,000 after acquiring an additional 224,772 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Comerica Bank bought a new position in shares of Insperity in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $257,100,000. 93.44% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Insperity Company Profile

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Insperity, Inc engages in the provision of human resources (HR) and business solutions to improve business performance for small and medium-sized businesses primarily in the United States. It offers its HR services through its workforce optimization and workforce synchronization solutions that include a range of human resources functions, such as payroll and employment administration, employee benefits, workers' compensation, government compliance, performance management, and training and development services.

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Keystone Wealth Services LLC reduced its stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF (BATS:EFG  Free Report) by 74.0% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 6,401 shares of the companys stock after selling 18,253 shares during the period. Keystone Wealth Services LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF were worth $620,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Dividend Assets Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $26,000. Headlands Technologies LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $28,000. Anchor Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF in the 4th quarter worth approximately $34,000. CVA Family Office LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF in the 4th quarter worth approximately $36,000. Finally, HM Payson & Co. acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $38,000.

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iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF Price Performance

Shares of EFG opened at $103.57 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $13.88 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.69 and a beta of 0.89. iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF has a one year low of $67.58 and a one year high of $85.81. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $100.29 and its 200-day simple moving average is $93.77.

iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF Profile

iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Growth 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 the MSCI EAFE Growth Index (the Index). The Index is a subset of the MSCI EAFE Index and constituents of the Index include securities from Europe, Australasia (Australia and Asia), and the Far East.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EFG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF (BATS:EFG  Free Report).

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Phoenix New Media Limited (NYSE:FENG  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant increase in short interest in March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 40,400 shares, an increase of 13,366.7% from the February 29th total of 300 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 56,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.7 days.

Phoenix New Media Price Performance

Phoenix New Media stock traded up $0.05 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $1.70. The companys stock had a trading volume of 6,497 shares, compared to its average volume of 58,997. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.02, a current ratio of 2.81 and a quick ratio of 2.72. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $1.54 and its 200-day moving average price is $1.40. Phoenix New Media has a 12 month low of $1.10 and a 12 month high of $4.14.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On Phoenix New Media

A hedge fund recently bought a new stake in Phoenix New Media stock. Virtu Financial LLC acquired a new position in shares of Phoenix New Media Limited (NYSE:FENG  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 21,805 shares of the information services providers stock, valued at approximately $58,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 6.33% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Phoenix New Media in a research report on Wednesday. They issued a hold rating on the stock.

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About Phoenix New Media

(Get Free Report)

Phoenix New Media Limited provides content on an integrated Internet platform in the People's Republic of China. The company operates through two segments, Net Advertising Services and Paid Services. It offers content and services through PC channel, mobile channel, and telecom operators, as well as transmits content to TV viewers, primarily through Phoenix TV.

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Passengers get aboard on a train at Shapingba Railway Station in southwest China's Chongqing, Feb. 17, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- China's rail passenger trips jumped 36.2 percent year on year in the first two months of 2024, official data showed.

A total of 693.14 million passenger trips were recorded across the country's rail networks during the period, according to the Ministry of Transport.

China's rail freight volume, a key indicator of economic activities, edged down 0.5 percent year on year to 805.87 million tonnes.

The data also showed that China's fixed-asset investment in railways reached 65.2 billion yuan (about 9.19 billion U.S. dollars) in the first two months, up 9.5 percent year on year. 
Research analysts at Wells Fargo & Company assumed coverage on shares of Physicians Realty Trust (NYSE:DOC  Get Free Report) in a report released on Monday, MarketBeat Ratings reports. The firm set an equal weight rating and a $19.00 price target on the real estate investment trusts stock. Wells Fargo & Companys price target indicates a potential upside of 8.20% from the stocks current price.

DOC has been the topic of several other research reports. Royal Bank of Canada started coverage on shares of Physicians Realty Trust in a research report on Friday, March 8th. They issued an outperform rating and a $21.00 price target on the stock. StockNews.com lowered shares of Physicians Realty Trust from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, March 16th. Compass Point decreased their price objective on Physicians Realty Trust from $19.00 to $18.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, January 2nd. Truist Financial decreased their price objective on Physicians Realty Trust from $15.00 to $14.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Friday, December 22nd. Finally, KeyCorp reiterated a sector weight rating on shares of Physicians Realty Trust in a report on Friday, January 5th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $16.44.

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Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on DOC

Physicians Realty Trust Trading Up 0.1 %

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Physicians Realty Trust

Shares of DOC opened at $17.56 on Monday. The companys fifty day moving average is $13.81 and its 200 day moving average is $12.77. Physicians Realty Trust has a fifty-two week low of $15.24 and a fifty-two week high of $22.38. The stock has a market capitalization of $12.46 billion, a PE ratio of 31.36 and a beta of 1.01. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a current ratio of 0.67.

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Physicians Realty Trust by 527.0% in the 2nd quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 3,889,863 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $67,878,000 after acquiring an additional 3,269,484 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in shares of Physicians Realty Trust in the 4th quarter valued at $34,883,000. Balyasny Asset Management L.P. purchased a new stake in shares of Physicians Realty Trust in the 4th quarter valued at $31,213,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its holdings in shares of Physicians Realty Trust by 88.2% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,572,415 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $53,336,000 after acquiring an additional 1,674,012 shares during the last quarter. Finally, State Street Corp boosted its holdings in shares of Physicians Realty Trust by 16.3% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 11,341,180 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $201,488,000 after acquiring an additional 1,591,038 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 93.57% of the companys stock.

About Physicians Realty Trust

(Get Free Report)

Physicians Realty Trust is a self-managed health care real estate company organized to acquire, selectively develop, own, and manage health care properties that are leased to physicians, hospitals, and health care delivery systems. The Company invests in real estate that is integral to providing high quality health care.

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Planned Solutions Inc. bought a new position in EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund bought 1,315 shares of the energy exploration companys stock, valued at approximately $159,000.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the business. State Street Corp raised its position in EOG Resources by 2.8% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 36,299,584 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $4,161,014,000 after purchasing an additional 1,005,328 shares during the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its position in EOG Resources by 1.1% in the 3rd quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 12,937,070 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $1,639,903,000 after purchasing an additional 145,691 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its position in EOG Resources by 2.3% in the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 11,814,421 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $1,352,283,000 after purchasing an additional 262,445 shares during the last quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. raised its position in EOG Resources by 8.4% in the 3rd quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 11,532,527 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $1,462,966,000 after purchasing an additional 892,951 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen Asset Management LLC raised its position in EOG Resources by 1.9% in the 2nd quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 10,475,545 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $1,198,821,000 after purchasing an additional 197,796 shares during the last quarter. 89.91% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several analysts have commented on EOG shares. Raymond James dropped their target price on shares of EOG Resources from $148.00 to $145.00 and set a strong-buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 24th. UBS Group dropped their target price on shares of EOG Resources from $165.00 to $145.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, December 14th. Truist Financial dropped their target price on shares of EOG Resources from $172.00 to $165.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Monday, February 26th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut shares of EOG Resources from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and dropped their target price for the company from $156.00 to $150.00 in a research report on Wednesday, December 6th. Finally, Mizuho dropped their target price on shares of EOG Resources from $150.00 to $138.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 3rd. Eleven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $140.75.

EOG Resources Stock Up 0.3 %

Shares of EOG Resources stock traded up $0.35 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $126.13. 699,795 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,479,723. The company has a 50 day moving average of $115.73 and a two-hundred day moving average of $121.46. EOG Resources, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $106.32 and a fifty-two week high of $136.79. The company has a current ratio of 2.44, a quick ratio of 2.13 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13. The stock has a market cap of $73.16 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.67 and a beta of 1.39.

EOG Resources (NYSE:EOG  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 23rd. The energy exploration company reported $3.07 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.14 by ($0.07). EOG Resources had a return on equity of 25.38% and a net margin of 31.40%. The business had revenue of $6.36 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.18 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $3.30 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was down 5.4% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.43 EPS for the current fiscal year.

EOG Resources Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, April 30th. Investors of record on Tuesday, April 16th will be paid a $0.91 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, April 15th. This represents a $3.64 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.89%. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 27.98%.

EOG Resources Company Profile

(Free Report)

EOG Resources, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, explores for, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily in producing basins in the United States, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and internationally. The company was formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Company.

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Planned Solutions Inc. bought a new position in STMicroelectronics (NYSE:STM  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund bought 3,600 shares of the semiconductor producers stock, valued at approximately $180,000.

Other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Thomas J. Herzfeld Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of STMicroelectronics by 548.4% in the third quarter. Thomas J. Herzfeld Advisors Inc. now owns 590 shares of the semiconductor producers stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 499 shares during the period. Huntington National Bank lifted its holdings in STMicroelectronics by 112.7% during the third quarter. Huntington National Bank now owns 689 shares of the semiconductor producers stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 365 shares during the period. Headlands Technologies LLC acquired a new position in shares of STMicroelectronics during the third quarter worth $30,000. Spire Wealth Management increased its position in shares of STMicroelectronics by 125.0% during the third quarter. Spire Wealth Management now owns 720 shares of the semiconductor producers stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 400 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Point72 Middle East FZE acquired a new position in shares of STMicroelectronics during the second quarter worth $45,000. 5.05% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts recently issued reports on the company. UBS Group raised STMicroelectronics from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research report on Friday, December 15th. StockNews.com lowered shares of STMicroelectronics from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. HSBC started coverage on shares of STMicroelectronics in a research note on Thursday, February 22nd. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Finally, Craig Hallum decreased their target price on shares of STMicroelectronics from $50.00 to $48.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, STMicroelectronics presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $50.75.

STMicroelectronics Stock Performance

Shares of STMicroelectronics stock traded up $0.54 on Wednesday, reaching $43.56. 1,253,528 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,646,298. The company has a current ratio of 3.17, a quick ratio of 2.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.16. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $45.20 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $44.84. STMicroelectronics has a 1-year low of $37.21 and a 1-year high of $55.85. The firm has a market capitalization of $39.32 billion, a PE ratio of 9.64, a PEG ratio of 2.81 and a beta of 1.69.

STMicroelectronics (NYSE:STM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 25th. The semiconductor producer reported $1.14 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.95 by $0.19. The business had revenue of $4.28 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.08 billion. STMicroelectronics had a net margin of 24.36% and a return on equity of 27.70%. The companys quarterly revenue was down 3.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.32 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts anticipate that STMicroelectronics will post 3.06 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

STMicroelectronics Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 2nd. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, June 25th will be issued a $0.09 dividend. This represents a $0.36 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.83%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, June 25th. This is a positive change from STMicroelectronicss previous quarterly dividend of $0.06. STMicroelectronicss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 4.48%.

About STMicroelectronics

(Free Report)

STMicroelectronics N.V., together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, and sells semiconductor products in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates through Automotive and Discrete Group; Analog, MEMS and Sensors Group; and Microcontrollers and Digital ICs Group segments.

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Procyon Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 15.5% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 3,824 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 514 shares during the period. Procyon Advisors LLCs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $2,229,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Fairfield Bush & CO. bought a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $107,000. Roundview Capital LLC boosted its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 2.6% during the 1st quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 2,056 shares of the companys stock valued at $589,000 after acquiring an additional 53 shares in the last quarter. Merit Financial Group LLC bought a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $210,000. NewEdge Advisors LLC boosted its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 9.9% during the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 53,052 shares of the companys stock valued at $15,193,000 after acquiring an additional 4,774 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Barometer Capital Management Inc. bought a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $561,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

LLY has been the topic of several research reports. Bank of America lifted their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $800.00 to $1,000.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, March 1st. Cantor Fitzgerald reissued an overweight rating and issued a $815.00 price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Tuesday, February 20th. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price target on Eli Lilly and Company from $710.00 to $865.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 7th. Truist Financial reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $850.00 price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Friday, March 22nd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $700.00 to $825.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 6th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seventeen have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $689.52.

Insider Activity at Eli Lilly and Company

In related news, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 34,538 shares of Eli Lilly and Company stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $631.81, for a total transaction of $21,821,453.78. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 99,719,884 shares of the companys stock, valued at $63,004,019,910.04. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Insiders have sold a total of 195,055 shares of company stock valued at $125,254,657 over the last ninety days. 0.13% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Eli Lilly and Company Trading Up 0.2 %

Eli Lilly and Company stock traded up $1.49 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $776.39. The stock had a trading volume of 921,002 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,213,065. The company has a quick ratio of 0.73, a current ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.69. Eli Lilly and Company has a 52-week low of $334.58 and a 52-week high of $800.78. The firm has a market cap of $737.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 133.55, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 0.34. The company has a fifty day moving average of $725.15 and a 200 day moving average of $634.68.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $2.49 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.30 by $0.19. The business had revenue of $9.35 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.95 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 15.36% and a return on equity of 51.22%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 28.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company posted $2.09 earnings per share. On average, analysts anticipate that Eli Lilly and Company will post 12.42 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Eli Lilly and Company Company Profile

(Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company 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; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity.

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Sandy Cove Advisors LLC lifted its stake in International Business Machines Co. (NYSE:IBM  Free Report) by 13.3% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 3,009 shares of the technology companys stock after acquiring an additional 353 shares during the period. Sandy Cove Advisors LLCs holdings in International Business Machines were worth $492,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in IBM. Thrive Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in International Business Machines by 0.9% during the 4th quarter. Thrive Wealth Management LLC now owns 7,311 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $1,196,000 after purchasing an additional 64 shares during the last quarter. Journey Strategic Wealth LLC boosted its position in International Business Machines by 2.9% during the third quarter. Journey Strategic Wealth LLC now owns 2,459 shares of the technology companys stock worth $345,000 after purchasing an additional 69 shares in the last quarter. Perkins Coie Trust Co boosted its position in International Business Machines by 0.3% during the third quarter. Perkins Coie Trust Co now owns 21,220 shares of the technology companys stock worth $2,977,000 after purchasing an additional 72 shares in the last quarter. Equitable Trust Co. boosted its position in International Business Machines by 1.1% during the third quarter. Equitable Trust Co. now owns 6,792 shares of the technology companys stock worth $953,000 after purchasing an additional 72 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of International Business Machines by 19.8% during the second quarter. Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC now owns 442 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $59,000 after acquiring an additional 73 shares during the last quarter. 58.96% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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International Business Machines Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE IBM opened at $189.30 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $173.54 billion, a PE ratio of 23.19, a P/E/G ratio of 3.70 and a beta of 0.70. The company has a current ratio of 0.96, a quick ratio of 0.93 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.22. International Business Machines Co. has a 12-month low of $120.55 and a 12-month high of $199.18. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $185.87 and a 200-day simple moving average of $163.70.

International Business Machines Dividend Announcement

International Business Machines ( NYSE:IBM Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The technology company reported $3.87 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.78 by $0.09. The firm had revenue of $17.38 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $17.29 billion. International Business Machines had a return on equity of 39.55% and a net margin of 12.13%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $3.60 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts forecast that International Business Machines Co. will post 10.07 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Saturday, March 9th. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 9th were paid a dividend of $1.66 per share. This represents a $6.64 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.51%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 8th. International Business Machiness dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 81.67%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

IBM has been the subject of several recent research reports. Evercore ISI raised International Business Machines from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and increased their price target for the company from $165.00 to $200.00 in a report on Friday, January 19th. Bank of America raised their price target on International Business Machines from $200.00 to $220.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, March 14th. Royal Bank of Canada increased their price objective on International Business Machines from $179.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, January 25th. Evercore raised International Business Machines from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and increased their price objective for the stock from $165.00 to $200.00 in a research report on Friday, January 19th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group began coverage on International Business Machines in a research note on Friday, January 5th. They set a hold rating and a $180.00 target price for the company. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, International Business Machines currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $176.85.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on IBM

About International Business Machines

(Free Report)

International Business Machines Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated solutions and services worldwide. The company operates through Software, Consulting, Infrastructure, and Financing segments. The Software segment offers a hybrid cloud and AI platforms that allows clients to realize their digital and AI transformations across the applications, data, and environments in which they operate.

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Sawyer & Company Inc lowered its holdings in Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM  Free Report) by 6.9% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 19,017 shares of the CRM providers stock after selling 1,417 shares during the period. Salesforce comprises 2.1% of Sawyer & Company Incs holdings, making the stock its 11th largest position. Sawyer & Company Incs holdings in Salesforce were worth $5,004,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of CRM. Sandy Cove Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Salesforce during the 4th quarter valued at $287,000. Bar Harbor Wealth Management lifted its position in shares of Salesforce by 6.0% during the 4th quarter. Bar Harbor Wealth Management now owns 13,289 shares of the CRM providers stock valued at $3,497,000 after buying an additional 757 shares during the last quarter. Vision Capital Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Salesforce by 0.5% during the 4th quarter. Vision Capital Management Inc. now owns 22,725 shares of the CRM providers stock valued at $5,980,000 after buying an additional 117 shares during the last quarter. Twin Peaks Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Salesforce during the 4th quarter valued at $1,405,000. Finally, New Millennium Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Salesforce during the 4th quarter valued at $729,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.43% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, CEO Marc Benioff sold 265,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, December 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $266.15, for a total value of $70,529,750.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 14,206,166 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,780,971,080.90. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Salesforce news, COO Brian Millham sold 1,679 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $305.46, for a total transaction of $512,867.34. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now owns 1,663 shares in the company, valued at approximately $507,979.98. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Marc Benioff sold 265,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, December 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $266.15, for a total transaction of $70,529,750.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 14,206,166 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,780,971,080.90. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 1,159,307 shares of company stock worth $324,535,513 in the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 3.70% of the companys stock.

Salesforce Stock Up 0.6 %

Shares of Salesforce stock opened at $307.70 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.09, a quick ratio of 1.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $292.85 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $251.18. The company has a market cap of $298.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 72.82, a PEG ratio of 2.35 and a beta of 1.28. Salesforce, Inc. has a 12-month low of $187.31 and a 12-month high of $318.71.

Salesforce (NYSE:CRM  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, February 28th. The CRM provider reported $1.78 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.72 by $0.06. The firm had revenue of $9.29 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.22 billion. Salesforce had a net margin of 11.87% and a return on equity of 10.42%. The companys revenue was up 10.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.01 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Salesforce, Inc. will post 7.45 EPS for the current year.

Salesforce Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, April 11th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, March 14th will be given a $0.40 dividend. This represents a $1.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.52%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, March 13th. Salesforces dividend payout ratio is presently 9.52%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

CRM has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Mizuho reissued a buy rating and set a $345.00 price objective (up previously from $325.00) on shares of Salesforce in a report on Thursday, February 29th. Bank of America increased their price objective on Salesforce from $350.00 to $360.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, February 29th. KeyCorp assumed coverage on Salesforce in a research note on Thursday, March 21st. They issued a sector weight rating on the stock. Piper Sandler restated a neutral rating and issued a $285.00 target price on shares of Salesforce in a research note on Wednesday, February 28th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada upped their target price on Salesforce from $285.00 to $325.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, February 29th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-four have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $304.32.

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About Salesforce

(Free Report)

Salesforce, Inc provides Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. The company's service includes sales to store data, monitor leads and progress, forecast opportunities, gain insights through analytics and artificial intelligence, and deliver quotes, contracts, and invoices; and service that enables companies to deliver trusted and highly personalized customer support at scale.

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Stora Enso Oyj (OTCMKTS:SEOAY  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large increase in short interest in March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 14,800 shares, an increase of 4,833.3% from the February 29th total of 300 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 49,600 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.3 days.

Stora Enso Oyj Stock Down 0.1 %

SEOAY stock traded down $0.01 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $13.91. The companys stock had a trading volume of 39,301 shares, compared to its average volume of 25,547. The firms 50-day moving average is $12.56 and its 200-day moving average is $12.78. Stora Enso Oyj has a 12 month low of $11.06 and a 12 month high of $14.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.41, a quick ratio of 1.25 and a current ratio of 1.65.

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Stora Enso Oyj (OTCMKTS:SEOAY  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 1st. The basic materials company reported ($0.69) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.01) by ($0.68). The business had revenue of $2.34 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.44 billion. Stora Enso Oyj had a negative net margin of 3.82% and a negative return on equity of 5.08%. On average, equities research analysts expect that Stora Enso Oyj will post 0.52 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Stora Enso Oyj Company Profile

Stora Enso Oyj provides renewable solutions for the packaging, biomaterials, wooden constructions, and paper industries in Finland and internationally. It operates through Packaging Materials, Packaging Solutions, Biomaterials, Wood Products, Forest, Paper, and Other segments. The company's Packaging Materials segment offers virgin and recycled fiber replace fossil-based materials with low-carbon, renewable and recyclable packaging materials for food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and transport packaging.

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Tectonic Advisors LLC raised its stake in Encompass Health Co. (NYSE:EHC  Free Report) by 9.5% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 5,590 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 484 shares during the period. Tectonic Advisors LLCs holdings in Encompass Health were worth $373,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of EHC. C M Bidwell & Associates Ltd. purchased a new stake in Encompass Health in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Worth Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in Encompass Health in the 1st quarter valued at $35,000. Belpointe Asset Management LLC raised its holdings in Encompass Health by 88.2% in the 1st quarter. Belpointe Asset Management LLC now owns 781 shares of the companys stock valued at $42,000 after acquiring an additional 366 shares during the last quarter. Quarry LP acquired a new position in Encompass Health in the 1st quarter valued at $42,000. Finally, Pinebridge Investments L.P. acquired a new position in Encompass Health in the 2nd quarter valued at $57,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 97.25% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Mizuho boosted their price objective on shares of Encompass Health from $77.00 to $82.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, February 9th. Stephens reissued an overweight rating and set a $85.00 price objective on shares of Encompass Health in a research note on Tuesday, January 16th. Royal Bank of Canada reissued an outperform rating and set a $83.00 price objective on shares of Encompass Health in a research note on Friday, February 9th. Barclays assumed coverage on shares of Encompass Health in a research note on Wednesday, March 6th. They set an overweight rating and a $95.00 price objective for the company. Finally, William Blair reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Encompass Health in a research report on Wednesday, February 7th. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Encompass Health currently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $82.56.

Encompass Health Stock Performance

NYSE:EHC opened at $76.76 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.19, a current ratio of 1.28 and a quick ratio of 1.28. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $73.94 and a two-hundred day moving average of $68.74. The stock has a market cap of $7.69 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.12, a PEG ratio of 1.41 and a beta of 0.93. Encompass Health Co. has a 1-year low of $52.32 and a 1-year high of $78.11.

Encompass Health (NYSE:EHC  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 7th. The company reported $0.95 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.83 by $0.12. The company had revenue of $1.25 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.24 billion. Encompass Health had a net margin of 7.33% and a return on equity of 17.69%. On average, research analysts expect that Encompass Health Co. will post 3.96 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Encompass Health Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, April 1st will be paid a $0.15 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 28th. This represents a $0.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.78%. Encompass Healths dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 17.29%.

About Encompass Health

(Free Report)

Encompass Health Corporation provides post-acute healthcare services in the United States and Puerto Rico. It owns and operates inpatient rehabilitation hospitals that provide medical, nursing, therapy, and ancillary services. The company provides specialized rehabilitative treatment on an inpatient basis to patients who have experienced physical or cognitive disabilities or injuries due to medical conditions, such as strokes, hip fractures, and various debilitating neurological conditions.

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Telefonica Brasil S.A. (NYSE:VIV  Get Free Report) has been assigned an average rating of Moderate Buy from the six ratings firms that are covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and three have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 12-month price objective among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $11.73.

A number of research analysts have commented on VIV shares. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Telefonica Brasil from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 20th. TheStreet raised shares of Telefonica Brasil from a c- rating to a b rating in a research report on Thursday, December 21st. Morgan Stanley reissued an equal weight rating and issued a $11.00 price objective on shares of Telefonica Brasil in a report on Friday, January 5th. Finally, Barclays increased their target price on Telefonica Brasil from $13.00 to $13.50 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, February 26th.

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Telefonica Brasil Stock Up 0.8 %

Shares of Telefonica Brasil stock opened at $10.15 on Wednesday. Telefonica Brasil has a 1-year low of $7.28 and a 1-year high of $11.43. The company has a market capitalization of $16.88 billion, a PE ratio of 16.36, a P/E/G ratio of 0.80 and a beta of 0.76. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20, a current ratio of 0.96 and a quick ratio of 0.92. The business has a 50-day moving average of $10.56 and a 200-day moving average of $10.09.

Telefonica Brasil (NYSE:VIV  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 20th. The Wireless communications provider reported $0.20 earnings per share for the quarter. Telefonica Brasil had a return on equity of 7.33% and a net margin of 9.70%. The firm had revenue of $2.73 billion during the quarter. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Telefonica Brasil will post 0.7 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Telefonica Brasil

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of VIV. Credit Suisse AG raised its stake in shares of Telefonica Brasil by 543.6% in the 3rd quarter. Credit Suisse AG now owns 7,485 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $57,000 after buying an additional 6,322 shares in the last quarter. Quantbot Technologies LP acquired a new stake in Telefonica Brasil in the 2nd quarter valued at about $68,000. FMR LLC boosted its position in shares of Telefonica Brasil by 578.8% during the 1st quarter. FMR LLC now owns 9,863 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock valued at $75,000 after purchasing an additional 8,410 shares in the last quarter. B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Telefonica Brasil in the 1st quarter worth approximately $84,000. Finally, Schonfeld Strategic Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Telefonica Brasil during the first quarter valued at approximately $89,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 5.16% of the companys stock.

Telefonica Brasil Company Profile

(Get Free Report

Telefonica Brasil SA, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a mobile telecommunications company in Brazil. Its fixed line services portfolio includes local, domestic long-distance, and international long-distance calls; and mobile portfolio comprises voice and broadband internet access through 3G, 4G, 4.5G, and 5G, as well as mobile value-added and wireless roaming services.

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TransAlta Co. (TSE:TA  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TAC) has earned a consensus recommendation of Buy from the ten research firms that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, eight have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. The average 1-year target price among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is C$15.80.

Several brokerages have commented on TA. TD Securities dropped their price target on shares of TransAlta from C$15.00 to C$14.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, February 26th. CIBC increased their target price on shares of TransAlta from C$18.00 to C$18.50 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, February 26th. BMO Capital Markets decreased their price target on shares of TransAlta from C$17.00 to C$16.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, February 26th. National Bankshares cut their price objective on TransAlta from C$14.00 to C$13.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada decreased their target price on TransAlta from C$15.00 to C$14.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, February 26th.

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View Our Latest Stock Report on TA

TransAlta Stock Performance

TA stock opened at C$8.68 on Wednesday. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of C$9.37 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$10.55. The company has a market capitalization of C$2.67 billion, a P/E ratio of 3.73, a PEG ratio of -0.07 and a beta of 0.89. The company has a quick ratio of 0.62, a current ratio of 0.91 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 253.18. TransAlta has a fifty-two week low of C$8.44 and a fifty-two week high of C$13.97.

TransAlta (TSE:TA  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TAC) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 23rd. The company reported C($0.27) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of C$0.18 by C($0.45). TransAlta had a return on equity of 43.58% and a net margin of 20.71%. The company had revenue of C$624.00 million during the quarter. Sell-side analysts predict that TransAlta will post 0.4712329 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

TransAlta Company Profile

(Get Free Report

TransAlta Corporation engages in the development, production, and sale of electric energy. It operates through Hydro, Wind and Solar, Gas, Energy Transition, and Energy Marketing segments. The Hydro segment holds interest of approximately 922 megawatts (MW) of owned hydroelectric generating capacity located in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.

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Shares of Unum Group (NYSE:UNM  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $53.63 and last traded at $53.55, with a volume of 70589 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $53.15.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on UNM. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised shares of Unum Group from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and set a $55.00 price objective on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, January 3rd. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price target on Unum Group from $47.00 to $52.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price target on Unum Group from $61.00 to $64.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 1st. Finally, StockNews.com upgraded Unum Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $55.88.

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Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on UNM

Unum Group Stock Performance

The companys 50-day simple moving average is $49.19 and its 200 day simple moving average is $47.19. The company has a current ratio of 0.27, a quick ratio of 0.27 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36. The stock has a market cap of $10.26 billion, a P/E ratio of 8.19, a PEG ratio of 0.78 and a beta of 0.86.

Unum Group (NYSE:UNM  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, January 30th. The financial services provider reported $1.79 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.86 by ($0.07). Unum Group had a return on equity of 16.03% and a net margin of 10.36%. The firm had revenue of $3.15 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.14 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.43 EPS. Unum Groups quarterly revenue was up 4.7% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Unum Group will post 8.18 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Unum Group Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, February 16th. Shareholders of record on Friday, January 26th were given a dividend of $0.365 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, January 25th. This represents a $1.46 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.72%. Unum Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 22.50%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Unum Group news, CFO Steven Andrew Zabel sold 10,000 shares of Unum Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $51.06, for a total transaction of $510,600.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 122,246 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,241,880.76. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. In related news, EVP Elizabeth Claire Ahmed sold 5,000 shares of Unum Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $50.00, for a total value of $250,000.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 55,450 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,772,500. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CFO Steven Andrew Zabel sold 10,000 shares of Unum Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $51.06, for a total transaction of $510,600.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 122,246 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,241,880.76. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 81,000 shares of company stock valued at $4,018,100 in the last 90 days. 0.77% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Unum Group

A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of UNM. Norges Bank bought a new stake in Unum Group during the 4th quarter valued at $590,489,000. Royal Bank of Canada grew its position in shares of Unum Group by 401.2% during the 2nd quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 1,639,336 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $78,196,000 after purchasing an additional 1,312,286 shares in the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of Unum Group by 63.6% during the 4th quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 2,504,307 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $102,752,000 after purchasing an additional 973,311 shares in the last quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. grew its position in shares of Unum Group by 583.3% during the 3rd quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. now owns 1,025,000 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $50,420,000 after purchasing an additional 875,000 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nordea Investment Management AB grew its position in shares of Unum Group by 79.8% during the 4th quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 1,952,763 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $88,616,000 after purchasing an additional 866,531 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 86.57% of the companys stock.

Unum Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Unum Group, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial protection benefit solutions primarily in the United States, the United Kingdom, Poland, and internationally. It operates through Unum US, Unum International, Colonial Life, and Closed Block segment. The company offers group long-term and short-term disability, group life, and accidental death and dismemberment products; supplemental and voluntary products, such as individual disability, voluntary benefits, and dental and vision products; and accident, sickness, disability, life, and cancer and critical illness products.

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WASHINGTON TRUST Co trimmed its holdings in shares of CVS Health Co. (NYSE:CVS  Free Report) by 0.4% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 249,234 shares of the pharmacy operators stock after selling 1,031 shares during the period. WASHINGTON TRUST Cos holdings in CVS Health were worth $19,680,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Bryn Mawr Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of CVS Health by 74.0% in the 3rd quarter. Bryn Mawr Capital Management LLC now owns 43,213 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $3,017,000 after buying an additional 18,385 shares during the last quarter. Value Partners Investments Inc. grew its position in shares of CVS Health by 26.5% in the 3rd quarter. Value Partners Investments Inc. now owns 991,601 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $69,261,000 after buying an additional 207,702 shares during the last quarter. Sonora Investment Management Group LLC grew its position in shares of CVS Health by 1.6% in the 3rd quarter. Sonora Investment Management Group LLC now owns 50,488 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $3,525,000 after buying an additional 774 shares during the last quarter. Checchi Capital Advisers LLC grew its position in shares of CVS Health by 2.3% in the 3rd quarter. Checchi Capital Advisers LLC now owns 10,405 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $726,000 after buying an additional 233 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Personal CFO Solutions LLC grew its position in shares of CVS Health by 2.6% in the 3rd quarter. Personal CFO Solutions LLC now owns 19,355 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $1,351,000 after buying an additional 491 shares during the last quarter. 80.66% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on CVS shares. Royal Bank of Canada dropped their price target on CVS Health from $86.00 to $84.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, February 8th. Leerink Partnrs restated an outperform rating on shares of CVS Health in a research note on Monday, February 26th. Barclays started coverage on CVS Health in a research note on Wednesday, March 6th. They set an equal weight rating and a $78.00 price target on the stock. HSBC assumed coverage on CVS Health in a research note on Friday, December 22nd. They set a buy rating and a $94.00 price target on the stock. Finally, StockNews.com downgraded CVS Health from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirteen have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, CVS Health has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $90.21.

Insider Activity

In other news, EVP Prem S. Shah sold 29,473 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $76.95, for a total value of $2,267,947.35. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 39,765 shares in the company, valued at $3,059,916.75. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.25% of the companys stock.

CVS Health Stock Performance

NYSE CVS traded down $0.39 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $78.93. 4,380,992 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 11,235,008. The businesss 50 day moving average is $75.57 and its 200-day moving average is $73.33. CVS Health Co. has a 1 year low of $64.41 and a 1 year high of $83.25. The company has a market capitalization of $99.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.28, a P/E/G ratio of 1.04 and a beta of 0.51. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.77, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 0.86.

CVS Health (NYSE:CVS  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 7th. The pharmacy operator reported $2.12 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.01 by $0.11. CVS Health had a net margin of 2.33% and a return on equity of 15.25%. The firm had revenue of $93.81 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $90.58 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.99 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 11.9% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts forecast that CVS Health Co. will post 8.33 EPS for the current fiscal year.

CVS Health Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 1st. Stockholders of record on Monday, April 22nd will be given a dividend of $0.665 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, April 19th. This represents a $2.66 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.37%. CVS Healths dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 41.18%.

About CVS Health

(Free Report)

CVS Health Corporation provides health solutions in the United States. It operates through Health Care Benefits, Health Services, and Pharmacy & Consumer Wellness segments. The Health Care Benefits segment offers traditional, voluntary, and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services.

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WASHINGTON TRUST Co reduced its holdings in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) by 0.9% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 346,639 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 3,100 shares during the period. WASHINGTON TRUST Cos holdings in Pfizer were worth $9,980,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Altfest L J & Co. Inc. increased its stake in Pfizer by 8.3% in the 4th quarter. Altfest L J & Co. Inc. now owns 44,843 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,291,000 after buying an additional 3,420 shares during the last quarter. West Oak Capital LLC increased its stake in Pfizer by 13.9% in the 4th quarter. West Oak Capital LLC now owns 20,950 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $601,000 after buying an additional 2,564 shares during the last quarter. Next Level Private LLC increased its stake in Pfizer by 13.1% in the 4th quarter. Next Level Private LLC now owns 53,772 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,548,000 after buying an additional 6,214 shares during the last quarter. Planned Solutions Inc. acquired a new stake in Pfizer in the 4th quarter valued at $236,000. Finally, First Pacific Financial increased its stake in Pfizer by 7.3% in the 4th quarter. First Pacific Financial now owns 20,716 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $596,000 after buying an additional 1,418 shares during the last quarter. 68.36% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Pfizer Price Performance

Shares of Pfizer stock traded up $0.20 on Wednesday, reaching $27.79. 18,049,146 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 43,612,059. The firms 50 day moving average is $27.48 and its 200-day moving average is $29.52. Pfizer Inc. has a one year low of $25.61 and a one year high of $42.22. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69, a quick ratio of 0.69 and a current ratio of 0.91. The firm has a market cap of $157.36 billion, a PE ratio of 77.14, a P/E/G ratio of 1.23 and a beta of 0.61.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, January 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.10 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of ($0.19) by $0.29. The business had revenue of $14.25 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.37 billion. Pfizer had a net margin of 3.62% and a return on equity of 10.88%. The firms quarterly revenue was down 41.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.14 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.22 EPS for the current fiscal year.

PFE has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. TD Cowen lowered shares of Pfizer from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and set a $32.00 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. UBS Group lowered their price objective on shares of Pfizer from $34.00 to $27.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, December 14th. Cantor Fitzgerald restated an overweight rating and set a $45.00 price objective on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Friday, March 1st. Guggenheim initiated coverage on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Friday, February 23rd. They set a buy rating and a $36.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Barclays lowered their price objective on shares of Pfizer from $34.00 to $28.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, December 14th. Twelve investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $36.88.

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Pfizer Company Profile

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Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, 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.

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WASHINGTON TRUST Co lessened its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report) by 0.4% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 128,290 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after selling 482 shares during the period. WASHINGTON TRUST Cos holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $14,121,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Altfest L J & Co. Inc. raised its holdings in Abbott Laboratories by 2.8% during the 4th quarter. Altfest L J & Co. Inc. now owns 11,507 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $1,267,000 after buying an additional 308 shares during the period. LaFleur & Godfrey LLC raised its holdings in Abbott Laboratories by 5.0% during the 4th quarter. LaFleur & Godfrey LLC now owns 40,462 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $4,454,000 after buying an additional 1,931 shares during the period. Procyon Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Abbott Laboratories by 3.8% during the 4th quarter. Procyon Advisors LLC now owns 26,522 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $2,919,000 after buying an additional 976 shares during the period. Planned Solutions Inc. acquired a new stake in Abbott Laboratories during the 4th quarter worth approximately $276,000. Finally, IFG Advisory LLC raised its position in Abbott Laboratories by 3.5% in the 4th quarter. IFG Advisory LLC now owns 31,828 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $3,503,000 after buying an additional 1,082 shares during the last quarter. 75.18% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Abbott Laboratories Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:ABT traded up $1.76 on Wednesday, hitting $113.26. The company had a trading volume of 3,210,076 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,678,984. Abbott Laboratories has a 1-year low of $89.67 and a 1-year high of $121.64. The stock has a market cap of $196.53 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.21, a P/E/G ratio of 2.65 and a beta of 0.75. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $115.18 and a 200 day moving average price of $106.29. The company has a current ratio of 1.64, a quick ratio of 1.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35.

Abbott Laboratories Dividend Announcement

Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, January 24th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.19 EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $1.19. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 14.27% and a return on equity of 20.65%. The firm had revenue of $10.24 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.19 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.03 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 1.5% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts expect that Abbott Laboratories will post 4.62 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, April 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.55 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, April 12th. This represents a $2.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.94%. Abbott Laboratoriess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 67.48%.

Insider Transactions at Abbott Laboratories

In related news, EVP Andrea F. Wainer sold 12,500 shares of Abbott Laboratories stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $120.00, for a total transaction of $1,500,000.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 78,704 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,444,480. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, VP John A. Jr. Mccoy sold 472 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $118.50, for a total transaction of $55,932.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now owns 18,760 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,223,060. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, EVP Andrea F. Wainer sold 12,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $120.00, for a total transaction of $1,500,000.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 78,704 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,444,480. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 56,435 shares of company stock valued at $6,451,298. 1.10% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on the company. Barclays lifted their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $133.00 to $141.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, January 26th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $116.00 to $121.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 13th. Citigroup lifted their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $123.00 to $126.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, January 25th. Raymond James lifted their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $124.00 to $127.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, January 25th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $128.00 target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a research report on Wednesday, February 14th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Abbott Laboratories currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $120.00.

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Abbott Laboratories Profile

(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.

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Keystone Wealth Services LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) by 6.3% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 36,185 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 2,131 shares during the period. Keystone Wealth Services LLCs holdings in Wells Fargo & Company were worth $1,781,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Fortis Group Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Wells Fargo & Company in the third quarter worth approximately $25,000. Studio Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Strategic Investment Solutions Inc. IL acquired a new stake in Wells Fargo & Company during the 1st quarter valued at $28,000. Baystate Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 53.0% in the third quarter. Baystate Wealth Management LLC now owns 803 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $33,000 after acquiring an additional 278 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Impact Partnership Wealth LLC acquired a new position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company in the third quarter worth $34,000. 75.90% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wells Fargo & Company Price Performance

Shares of WFC stock opened at $56.69 on Wednesday. Wells Fargo & Company has a 52-week low of $36.27 and a 52-week high of $58.44. The stock has a market cap of $200.71 billion, a PE ratio of 11.76, a PEG ratio of 1.18 and a beta of 1.19. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.24, a quick ratio of 0.88 and a current ratio of 0.88. The firms 50 day moving average price is $52.58 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $46.83.

Wells Fargo & Company Dividend Announcement

Wells Fargo & Company ( NYSE:WFC Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, January 12th. The financial services provider reported $0.86 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.16 by ($0.30). The firm had revenue of $20.48 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.30 billion. Wells Fargo & Company had a return on equity of 12.40% and a net margin of 16.60%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 2.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $0.67 earnings per share. As a group, analysts forecast that Wells Fargo & Company will post 4.72 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Investors of record on Friday, February 2nd were issued a dividend of $0.35 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 1st. This represents a $1.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.47%. Wells Fargo & Companys payout ratio is 29.05%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

WFC has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Piper Sandler decreased their price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $51.00 to $50.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, January 16th. Robert W. Baird reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $55.00 price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a research report on Monday, January 8th. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price objective on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $45.00 to $50.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, December 1st. Raymond James increased their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $55.00 to $58.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 16th. Finally, Oppenheimer reaffirmed a market perform rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a report on Tuesday, March 19th. Twelve investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $54.31.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Wells Fargo & Company

About Wells Fargo & Company

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Wells Fargo & Company, a financial services company, provides diversified banking, investment, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through four segments: Consumer Banking and Lending; Commercial Banking; Corporate and Investment Banking; and Wealth and Investment Management.

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With rural public transit in its current form ending Thursday in the county, the Hall County Commission is taking steps to continue the service.

Commissioners voted Tuesday to move forward in talks with Holiday Express and appoint a committee to carry out negotiations.

If things continue successfully, the service will cost a total of $300,000 a year, but Hall County will have to pay only $55,000 to $60,000 of that amount. The rest will be supplied by state and federal funds.

God willing, we will have that service running sooner than later, Commissioner Scott Sorensen said after the meeting.

Service could be returned by mid to late April if everything works out, he said.

About $40,000 of the local match will be paid by Hall County. The rest will come from vehicles the county is selling and leasing to the city of Grand Island. The board voted to surplus those vehicles on Tuesday.

The county will provide service to Hall County residents who live outside of the metropolitan Grand Island area, which includes Alda. So the operation will provide transit for residents of Wood River, Cairo, Doniphan and areas in between.

The service would continue as it does now, with people making appointments in advance. It will run Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Currently, Crane Transit provides public transit in Hall County, including the city of Grand Island. The state has determined that the city and country must separate their transit services.

Also at Tuesdays meeting, the board heard a report from Steve Severson and Alberto Sanchez of Davis Design about the planned courthouse expansion project.

The board is leaning toward a construction manager at risk (CMAR) system for overseeing the project. On Tuesday, the commission voted to put together a request for proposals to seek CMAR applicants.

Commissioner Karen Bredthauer talked about the role of the CMAR, and whether the cost might add to the countys bill. Bredthauer said a CMAR determines the maximum cost of a project.

At this point, the courthouse addition is expected to cost $35 million to $40 million. The Davis Design architects and Building and Grounds Director Loren Doone Humphrey said a CMAR is often adept at keeping construction costs down. Severson said the architects are hoping to hit the lower end of the projected range.

The board passed three motions regarding the CMAR position, each on a 5-2 vote. Casting the negative votes each time were Bredthauer and Gary Quandt.

During the Board of Equalization portion of the meeting, the board approved an agreement with Stanard Appraisal Service of Central City for refereeing property valuation protests.

County Assessor Kristi Wold was asked to inform Stanard that referees will be needed for a longer period of time this year. The Board of Equalization will not hear protests that have not first gone before a referee.

Also Tuesday, commissioners accepted a bid to repair the elevator in the Annex Building. The work will be done by TK Elevator for $176,000.

Chase Francl of the Mid-Plains Center talked about the impact budget cuts will have on Region 3 Behavioral Health Services.

In addition, the board:

Approved the Roads Departments one- and six-year plans for 2024-25.

Approved new terms for three people  Brock Burney, Michael Swanson and Karla Gyenes  on the Hall County Visitor Promotion Advisory Committee.

Heard a request from Marc Kohmetscher of the District 9 Probation office to purchase laptops and related equipment at a cost of $74,796.30. To begin with, the board encouraged Kohmetscher to look for state and federal grants.
Finnish parliament speaker joins inauguration of $57 mln waste-to-energy plant in northern Vietnam

By Tri Duc Wed, March 27, 2024 | 5:04 pm GMT+7

The Thang Long-Bac Ninh waste-to-energy plant in the northern province of Bac Ninh was inaugurated Tuesday in the presence of Finnish parliament speaker Jussi Halla-aho.

The VND1.4 trillion ($56.5 million) factory utilizes technology and equipment provided by Finnish firm Valmet.

It is the first project in Vietnam that deploys circular technology for waste processing and burning. The 4.8-hectare facility has a daily capacity of processing 500 tons of waste, generating 11 MW of electricity.

Jussi Halla-aho (left), speaker of the Parliament of Finland, and Nguyen Anh Tuan (right), chief of Bac Ninh Party Committee, attend the inauguration ceremony of a waste-to-energy plant in Bac Ninh province, northern Vietnam, March 26, 2024. Photo courtesy of the National Assembly's news portal.

With the latest WTE project, Bac Ninh has become the first locality in Vietnam to process the entire domestic waste generated every day with advanced technology.

The project, also the fourth of its kind in the northern province, is set to enter trial operation soon and increase the provinces waste processing capacity to 1,500 tons a day.

Three other projects in the province have already started official operations or are in trial mode.

Bac Ninh is now home to 28 industrial parks  12 operational and 16 under construction  featuring almost 2,000 businesses with 300,000 workers. The province generates 1,100 tons of domestic waste, excluding industrial waste, every day.

Construction of the Thang Long-Bac Ninh waste-to-energy factory started in May 2019. It deploys technologies for filtering waste and collecting refuse-derived fuel (RDF) provided by BMH Technology, and circular incinerator and exhaust gas treatment provided by Finnish firm Valmet.
Dr. Walter B. Curry Jr., founder of Renaissance Publications LLC, has received two awards for his contributions in the arts.

Curry was the recipient of the art award for the Upsilon Rho Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc of Bamberg County at the organization's annual awards and scholarship program on March 16 at Voorhees University, Denmark.

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The Confederation of South Carolina Local Historic Societies awarded Curry an Award of Merit for his art exhibition Ancestral Reflections: The Thompson Family at the organizations Landmark Conference held March 22-23 at South Carolina State University.

SC State to welcome alumni, spoken word artist for Black History Month Ancestral Reflections: The Thompson Family, a collection of paintings and spoken word poetry, will be on display Feb. 19-29, at South Carolina State University's Fine Arts Building Gallery.

An Orangeburg native, Curry received a bachelors in political science from South Carolina State University and has earned graduate degrees in education, including a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Argosy University, Sarasota.
NEW YORK  Krispy Kreme and McDonald's are getting together over breakfast.

The doughnut chain and the fast-food giant unveiled plans Tuesday to offer Krispy Kreme products at McDonald's locations across the United States. A phased rollout is expected to start later this year, the companies said, with availability at participating restaurants nationwide expected by the end of 2026.

McDonald's didn't specify how many of its 13,500 U.S. locations  95% of which are franchised  would be participating in the deal. But in a prepared statement, Krispy Kreme President and CEO Josh Charlesworth said the partnership would give customers "unprecedented daily access" to the Charlotte, North Carolina-based company's glazed, filled and frosted treats.

Krispy Kreme McDonalds Krispy Kreme Doughnuts stock jumped March 26 after it announced a deal where McDonalds restaurants will sell its doughnuts across the country.

"By making Kreme Krispy accessible to fans nationwide through this partnership, we expect to more than double our points of access by the end of 2026," Charlesworth said.

Tariq Hassan, chief marketing and customer experience officer for McDonald's USA, said the deal marked a chance to "unlock new business opportunities" in the Chicago-based chain's breakfast category and the sweet items it sells throughout the day.

McDonald's plans to make three Krispy Kreme doughnut varieties  original glazed, chocolate iced with sprinkles and a filled chocolate iced  available individually and in boxes of six until daily supplies last.

The partnership is hardly the first bringing major restaurant chains and popular food brands together. Taco Bell, for example, has long boasted Doritos-flavored tacos while Wendy's brought a Cinnabon "pull-apart" treat to its menu last month.

After the tornado: Bamberg restaurant owner thankful for support BAMBERG  Paula Dyches Hutchins is thankful for the support Bamberg has shown her business since a tornado damaged it in January.

Krispy Kreme has teamed up with other businesses before. Krispy Kreme doughnuts are sold at Walmart, Kroger and other grocery chains along with the chain's own stores. In total, the company says it operates in 35 countries with more than 14,000 "fresh points of access" through its own shops, retail partnerships and e-commerce business.

Following the announcement of the McDonald's deal, shares of Krispy Kreme soared nearly 30% by late morning Tuesday. McDonald's stock was up about 0.08%.

In an email to The Associated Press, a Krispy Kreme spokesperson said the company would not be disclosing any financial details about the deal, which is exclusive to the U.S. through 2026. McDonald's did not immediately respond to a request for further comment.
HARARE, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe will intensify monitoring and supervision of all large gatherings during the upcoming Easter Holidays to minimize the spread of cholera.

The country's health ministry said church gatherings in open spaces cannot take place unless there are solar-powered boreholes or bush pump boreholes and sanitation facilities.

Zimbabwe has been battling a cholera outbreak since February last year, with cumulative suspected cases standing at 30,070 as of Monday. 
(TBTCO) - Chi can co ien thoai di ong, gui cau hoi en Cong giao tiep cua Cuc Thue Binh inh hay cac trang mang xa hoi nhu Zalo, Facebook, nguoi nop thue se uoc ho tro quyet toan thue tren moi truong ien tu theo nguyen tac 24 gio/7 ngay va theo chuan dich vu ho tro thue 5 sao. Mua quyet toan thue tai Binh inh ang dien ra suon se, thuan loi va hieu qua.
Proposed legislation from Georgian Dream party would eliminate gatherings and education associated with LGBTQ+ issues. From OC Media.

Georgias ruling party has announced sweeping amendments to the constitution that would outlaw what it terms queer propaganda, including banning public demonstrations or publications that it deemed to popularize same-sex family or intimate relations. The proposed changes would also ban gender transitioning.

The changes were outlined by Georgian Dreams parliamentary leader, Mamuka Mdinaradze, at a press conference on Monday morning.

Georgias draft Constitutional Law on Family Values and Protection of Minors would ban any gathering, product, or educational program that popularizes:

Same-sex families or intimate relations

Same-sex or non-heterosexual child adoption

Gender transitioning

The idea there are more than two genders

Incest.

The changes would also prohibit any medical assistance in gender transitioning or any legal gender recognition for transgender people.

The party said they planned to add a line to Article 30 of the constitution stating that protection of family values and minors are ensured by Georgias constitutional law, which is an integral part of the Constitution of Georgia. This would be a reference to the prospective constitutional law outlined above.

The ruling party currently holds only 82 of 150 seats in parliament, far short of the 113 needed to push through constitutional changes outright. If the changes were to be supported by at least 100 members of parliament, two-thirds of lawmakers, they could be approved by the next convocation of the parliament with another vote by 100 parliamentary members.

During the press conference, Mdinaradze also suggested the party planned to introduce other related changes that would require a simple majority of 76 to pass.

Such changes could torpedo Georgias bid for EU membership. In its requirements for Georgia to advance its accession process, the EU Commission said the country needed to move swiftly to strengthen the protection of human rights of vulnerable groups. The Commission went on to call on the Georgian government to ensure the right to freedom of assembly, citing their failure to prevent far-right groups from ransacking a planned pride festival in 2023.

Georgian Dreams proposals would likely outright ban pride events from being held.

Elections

The proposals, coming ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for October, could represent the ruling partys pitch to the countrys conservative electorate, as opinion polls suggest it could struggle to win a majority under the new fully proportional voting system.

During Mondays press conference, Mdinaradze conceded that the party might not be able to secure the votes necessary to actually amend the constitution. He said the party had opted for constitutional changes as opposed to regular legislation because the party wanted stronger guarantees that would be harder to reverse if some pseudo-liberal group comes into power in 1015 years.

Since Georgian Dream along with pro-government media channels began promoting the need for a law targeting queer people around a month ago, it has regularly described the need to counter pseudo-liberal propaganda while referencing opposition groups.

During his press conference, Mdinaradze appeared to set the stage for a showdown over the issue, stating that they had seen preliminary preparations against the as-yet-unwritten initiative.

However, as the ruling party and its proxies have floated the idea of a queer propaganda law in previous weeks, opposition parties as well as civil society organizations, including queer rights groups, appear to have declined to engage with the governments proposals.

Some parties, such as former parliamentary member Giorgi Gakharias For Georgia Party, have maintained that they needed to see the text of the draft while reiterating that any propaganda directed at minors was unacceptable to them.

Following Mondays announcement, libertarian party Girchi appeared to take a stand against the legislation, with parliamentary member Vakhtang Megrelishvil calling it absurd and contrary to human rights. However, in their previous criticism, Girchi maintained that gender should be entirely scrapped from the Georgian legislation, effectively reversing 2014 legislative changes under Georgian Dream.

Eventually, this [proposed legislation] will curtail freedom of speech because someone will decide what propaganda means, Megrelishvili said.

Previous Attempts

On Monday, Mdinaradze said that some of the provisions in the article may not reflect problems currently facing Georgia. However, he cited the 2017 constitutional changes as an example that his party could foresee supposed dangers, like same-sex marriage, which they had defined as a union between a man and a woman.

At that time, Georgian Dream argued that redefining marriage as a heterosexual union would also prevent certain groups from instrumentalizing homophobia in Georgia.

Calls for a ban on queer propaganda began to surface after a violent attack on a 2013 attempt by queer rights advocates to mark International Day Against Homophobia in Tbilisi.

Homophobic rally in Tbilisi. 6 July 2021. Image: Mariam Nikuradze/OC Media.

Those demanding such legislation in recent years have included Orthodox priests, pro-Russian media platforms, and various pro-government or far-right groups, including the violent pro-Russia extremist group, Alt Info.

Several months after organizing a violent attack on the aborted 2021 pride march in Tbilisi, Alt Info submitted their initiative to ban LGBT propaganda to parliament. The following July, the Georgian Orthodox Church explicitly endorsed the idea.

Announcing Georgian Dreams legislative agenda on 25 March, Mamuka Mdinaradze did not rule out banning pro-queer demonstrations, including a Pride march, if they amounted to popularization of queer sexuality.

A far-right demonstration in July 2023 successfully thwarted the Pride Fest event by Tbilisi Pride in Tbilisi. Photo: Mariam Nikuradze/OC Media.

Legislation against queer propaganda in several other countries, including those citing the protection of minors, has been widely condemned by human rights groups as an assault on fundamental freedoms.

Critics have pointed out that laws like the one adopted by Russia in 2013 to protect children from information advocating a denial of traditional family values, have also increased hate-motivated crime.



Shota Kincha covers Georgia-related topics at OC Media, where this article originally appeared. Reprinted with permission under a Creative Commons license with slight edits for Transitions style.
A federal court has ruled the Bureau of Land Management cannot move forward on a large oil and gas lease sale in Wyoming after concluding the agency did not adequately assess potential risks to groundwater and wildlife, prolonging a years-long battle over the fate of 120,000 acres of federal land in the Cowboy State while signaling a shift toward higher regulatory standards and the growing role of courts in the future of energy politics.

The courts decision pivoted largely around the issue of groundwater, as the judge decided the BLMs assessment failed to ensure that underground aquifers were adequately protected from potential wellbore seepage and could have left large sums of Wyomings usable water at risk of contamination.

The ruling highlights a core challenge for extraction industries as well as the premium placed on geologic expertise in the world of energy politics.

The decision hinged on a troubling report which revealed that not all oil and gas wells on federal lands in Wyoming have comprehensive protective casings, leaving gaps through which chemicals may escape into pockets of usable underground water.

The court cited as an example the Powder River Basin, where 63 wells have been drilled on federal land since the year 2000, and where research shows that more than half those wells, 36, have uncemented gaps in wellbores; many of those gaps cross usable water sources, putting the areas water security at risk.

The Bureau of Land Management cant just say, Dont worry, well fix it at a later stage. Not when theres evidence in the record that shows they havent been fixing it, said Alexandra Schluntz, senior associate attorney with Earthjustice, one of the plaintiffs in the case.

The currently contested parcels, including those in the Powder River and Green River basins, are located in areas with useable water, and because the BLMs assessment standards have not changed, researchers believe if current active federal wells are not adequately cased and cemented, then it can be assumed that a significant portion of future wells installed on these proposed parcels will also be inadequately cased/cemented and thus pose a threat to usable water.

The district judge agreed.

Additionally, the court said the BLMs lease plans did not sufficiently account for risks to wildlife, namely sage grouse and mule deer, both of which are negatively impacted by oil and gas development, studies have shown.

The courts logic reflects a wider concern over the decline of sage grouse, whose traditional range has shrunken at an alarming rate in the last half century, largely as a result of human development. In one Wyoming planning area, the court noted its range has contracted by 90%.

Similarly, the decision speaks to a heightened vigilance toward mule deer in Wyoming, where 24 of the states 27 herds are failing to meet population objectives  some by as much as 67%, according to the agencys own findings. Some parcels, furthermore, are in areas designated as Critical Winter Range, whose importance was thrown into relief following a brutal 2023 winter that drove mass die-offs in herds across the state.

and this is an issue that is really going to have to be considered nationwide

The BLM argued that it had taken wildlife concerns into account in its respective resource management plans. Though the court acknowledged that the plan provided a useful framework, it was only part of a tiered system of review and said in the context of these specific leases the analysis was generic to forecast impacts on animal populations required by law.

The bureau cannot hang its hat where it never placed a peg, the judge wrote.
A lawsuit to keep Donald Trump and Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis off the ballot has been dismissed at the original filers request.

The Colorado Supreme Court previously decided to bar Donald Trump from appearing on Colorados presidential ballot for the 2024 election. The plaintiffs case was backed by a provision in the 14th amendment barring insurrectionists from holding office.

Colorados decision was appealed to the United States Supreme Court, which unanimously ruled earlier this month that Trump cannot be kept off the ballot using the cited provision.

Retired Laramie-based attorney Tim Newcomb filed a similar suit in Albany County to bar Trump and Lummis, both of whom are Republicans, from Wyomings upcoming November ballot.

Albany County Judge Misha Westby dismissed the lawsuit in January, but Newcomb appealed the decision to the Wyoming Supreme Court.

The motion to dismiss the appeal came on Monday, and Secretary of State Chuck Gray applauded the decision Tuesday.

Im extremely pleased with the Wyoming Supreme Courts dismissal of Mr. Newcombs outrageously wrong lawsuit, Gray said in a press release. Radical leftists and liberal elites have tried everything they can to weaponize the Fourteenth Amendment against Trump and the American people, but this dismissal marks continued vindication for the truth and for liberty.

Newcomb did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
* In collaboration with nations like Tanzania, Seychelles, Rwanda and Ethiopia, the China-Africa Vocational Education Alliance has been revising and developing job standards and professional teaching norms for critical industries in these countries.

* For over half a century, Chinese medical teams and experts have been at the forefront of combating regional diseases and major public health crises, providing comprehensive training for local medical personnel and enhancing Africa's healthcare capabilities.

* Established in 2013, the Confucius Institute has seen more than 100 teachers and volunteers from China come to Tanzania and train more than 60,000 Chinese language learners.

by Xinhua writer Zhou Chuyun

NAIROBI, March 27 (Xinhua) -- In the early morning, students enter the Ethiopian Luban Workshop located in a three-story building of a vocational training institute in eastern Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital, where they are imparted industrial skills and taught robotics technologies.

Over the past decade, more than a dozen similar institutions have opened across Africa, symbolizing China's commitment to sharing its vocational education expertise with the continent. Alongside numerous other China-Africa talent-building cooperation projects, these schools help drive the region toward modernization and sustainable development.

This photo taken on Feb. 15, 2024 shows Yonas Akele (R) and Jiang Jiang communicating on teaching at the Ethiopian Luban Workshop in a vocational training institute in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

FOSTERING VOCATIONAL SKILLS

A group of Luban Workshop students were captivated by their 39-year-old teacher, Yonas Akele, who demonstrated the operation of automated equipment from China, simulating the production process on assembly lines.

The Luban Workshop, named after an ancient Chinese architect, is a vocational training program established in around 20 countries for local communities.

Having once studied in China, Yonas was inspired by Luban Workshop's integration of theoretical knowledge with practical engineering. Upon his return to Ethiopia, Yonas landed a teaching position here.

"Young Ethiopians are fortunate to have this learning opportunity, and I hope to see more Luban workshops established across Ethiopia," Yonas said.

Jiang Jiang, head of the Ethiopian Luban Workshop, outlined the facility's specializations, such as industrial sensors, industrial control, industrial robots and mechatronics.

"When China and Ethiopia collaborated on establishing the Luban Workshop, Ethiopia voiced a need for an advanced training platform catering to key manufacturing sectors, particularly in areas like automated production," Jiang said.

"The employers are delighted with our graduates' performance," Jiang noted, adding that some companies have expressed interest in training their workers at the workshop.

The workshop has organized five training sessions in partnership with local governments and international organizations, benefiting nearly 200 talents from Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and other nations.

As the Ethiopian proverb goes, "He who learns, teaches." These trained African instructors bring advanced knowledge and technology to their respective communities, thus catalyzing Africa's demographic dividend toward sustainable development.

In collaboration with nations like Tanzania, Seychelles, Rwanda and Ethiopia, the China-Africa Vocational Education Alliance has been revising and developing job standards and professional teaching norms for critical industries in these countries.

Franklin Rwezimula, deputy permanent secretary in Tanzania's Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, said China can help Tanzania develop a new generation of skilled professionals who know how to drive innovation and build entrepreneurship, thus benefiting sustainable economic growth through training.

This photo taken on Feb. 15, 2024 shows a view of the Ethiopian Luban Workshop in a vocational training institute in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

ENHANCING MEDICAL SERVICES

Africa is facing increasing risks of disease outbreaks and health emergencies related to climate change, such as a disproportionately high rate of malaria deaths. According to the World Health Organization, African countries accounted for about 94 percent of all malaria cases globally and 95 percent of deaths in 2022. To improve medical services, China has been dispatching medical personnel and aid to African countries for decades.

Since 2007, the China Malaria Prevention and Control Project Team in the Comoros has led malaria prevention efforts and training in collaboration with the Comoros Anti-Malaria Center. By 2017, the diligent efforts of experts from both nations had reduced malaria incidence in the Comoros by over 99 percent, effectively eradicating malaria-related fatalities.

Kamal Said Abdallah, the 47-year-old laboratory director of the Comoros National Malaria Control Center, has been working closely with Chinese medical professionals for 12 years.

After graduating from Tianjin Medical University, Kamal served as an interpreter for the China-Comoros Anti-Malaria Cooperation Project before transitioning to more hands-on anti-malaria work, with training sessions in China. He elaborated with Xinhua on the complexity of distributing anti-malarial drugs, which he said demands specialized training and guidance.

Deng Changsheng, leader of the China Anti-Malaria Project Team in the Comoros, detailed the extensive training efforts conducted between 2018 and 2021, saying it has benefited over 4,000 local personnel involved in malaria prevention and control.

He said these initiatives have enhanced the Comoros' medical and healthcare systems, nurturing local talent crucial to maintaining progress.

For over half a century, Chinese medical teams and experts have been at the forefront of combating regional diseases and major public health crises, providing comprehensive training for local medical personnel and enhancing Africa's healthcare capabilities.

Pemba Island in Zanzibar, Tanzania, once had a high prevalence of schistosomiasis - an acute, chronic, and disabling parasitic disease - but has witnessed a significant decline in recent years, thanks to Chinese medical expertise and collaboration with local health officials. In December last year, the first technical capacity training on schistosomiasis detection was organized on Pemba Island, enhancing the diagnostic capabilities of local medical institutions.

Seleh Juma Muhammed, an official from the Zanzibar Ministry of Health with four decades of experience in schistosomiasis prevention and treatment, praised the efficacy of Chinese integrated control methods and expressed a dedication to learning from Chinese experts and working with local communities.

This photo taken on Nov. 17, 2023 shows Asha Fum Khamis, a Tanzanian Chinese teacher at the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam, talking with a student during a Chinese language class in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)

EXPANDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR AFRICAN YOUTH

As China and African countries strengthen relations and increase exchanges, more African youth are starting to learn about Chinese culture. Asha Fum Khamis, a 32-year-old Tanzanian Chinese teacher at the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam, told Xinhua that learning Chinese transformed her life.

"If it weren't for learning Chinese and receiving a scholarship to study in China, I would still be fishing on a small boat in Zanzibar," Khamis said.

Khamis attests to the growing popularity of Chinese language learning in Tanzania, calling it an international language that opens doors for youth employment and career prospects in Africa.

Of the 300-plus students she has taught, many have found jobs in local Chinese firms, while around 50 have opted for careers in Chinese language education, reflecting the language's increasing importance in Tanzania.

Established in 2013, the Confucius Institute has seen more than 100 teachers and volunteers from China come to Tanzania and train more than 60,000 Chinese language learners.

In recent years, a growing number of Tanzanian students have been applying to study engineering, technology, medicine and other professions in China after learning the language.

"The Chinese language is the language of the day across the globe. It is the language that unlocks opportunities for the youth, locally and globally," said Khamis.

To meet diverse educational needs, Confucius Institutes in Africa integrate Chinese language education with other disciplines to nurture versatile talent.

In Senegal, a West African country aiming to boost its agricultural output, the Confucius Institute at Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar collaborates with Chinese agricultural specialists to offer a distinctive program that combines Chinese language education with agricultural technology.

"Throughout the training, I did not only acquire Chinese vegetable cultivation techniques but also enhanced my language ability," said Moussa Dione, one of the program's participants. "These skills are invaluable for my future career prospects."

(Video reporter: Lin Lin, Zeng Tao; video editors: Lin Lin, Mu Xuyao, Liu Yutian, Li Qin, Wang Houyuan)
JACKSON  Gov. Mark Gordons veto Friday of a bill regulating abortions surprised both supporters and opponents of the legislation.

The Republican governor vetoed House Bill 148, titled Regulation of Surgical Abortions, because he didnt want to interfere with an ongoing lawsuit challenging two abortion bans passed in 2023, he wrote in a letter explaining his decision. Language added to the bill muddied its purpose, he wrote, and made it vulnerable to yet another court challenge.

Two years of successive court challenges across three bans fail to protect unborn life, Gordon wrote, as the laws are halted while abortions carry on.

Rep. Martha Lawley, R-Worland, sponsored the bill, the original draft of which would have required a surgical abortion center to be licensed as an ambulatory surgical center and doctors providing abortions to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 10 miles of the facility.

Gordon praised Lawleys initial draft, writing that it would have imposed proper restrictions; however, language added from a dead bill burdened the regulatory bill and complicated its purpose.

House Floor Leader Chip Neiman, a Republican representing Crook and Weston counties, introduced an amendment to the bill requiring an ultrasound at least 48 hours prior to an abortion. The requirement also would apply to medication abortions.

Critics have called the ultrasound requirement, which could require transvaginal ultrasounds in early pregnancy, invasive and medically unnecessary.

Neimans amendment also called for criminal penalties for pharmacists and physicians who dispense medication for an abortion without first verifying that a woman has received the required ultrasound. The bill would have gone into effect immediately.

Gordon accused lawmakers of posturing ahead of the election.

I implore you to let the courts do their jobs so we can reach a decision quickly in these cases and quit trying to score points by loading up a simple and elegant solution like the one Representative Lawley originally proposed for seemingly the objective of having a vehicle to count pro-life votes before this years election, the governor wrote in his veto letter.

The bill landed on Gordons desk following widespread support  Rep. Andrew Byron, a Republican representing Teton and Lincoln counties, was among the bills supporters.

Lawley, a retired attorney, told the Jackson Hole Daily that her motivation behind the requirements was a respect for all life, including women who choose abortion. She saw the bill as fixing a continuity of care issue hence clinics needing admitting privileges.

I am extremely disappointed in the Governors veto of HB 148 Regulation of Abortion, Lawley wrote in an email Friday. This bill passed with overwhelming support in both the House and Senate. I find Governor Gordons reasons for vetoing this bill completely unpersuasive. Furthermore, as I read the many letters coming from the Governor, I have a growing concern about executive branch overreach into both the Legislative and Judicial branches.

Wyoming has only one surgical abortion clinic in the state, Wellspring Health Access in Casper. The clinic provides medication abortions and performs surgical abortions for patients up to 23 weeks and six days into pregnancy. The clinic is one of six plaintiffs in the lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the two abortion bans already on the books. Executive Director Katie Knutter said she was preparing to challenge HB 148 in court.

We were obviously very happy to get the news, Knutter said Friday. It means we can continue operating for now.

In his veto letter, Gordon wrote that the succession of legislation passed in recent years  a 2022 trigger ban followed by two abortion bans passed in 2023  have all been halted by the courts.

We are closer than ever to a decision, Gordon wrote, which he doesnt wish to delay.

The previous delays have only sacrificed additional unborn children in Wyoming, Gordon wrote. We cannot afford further delay of the resolution of this critical issue for the unborn.

The fate of the two bans now sits with the Wyoming Supreme Court following a March 18 order sending the decision out of Teton County.

Ninth Judicial District Judge Melissa Owens sent 14 questions to the states highest court to be answered about the ongoing case. The questions include whether the bans violate sections of the Wyoming Constitution granting citizens the right to make their own health care decisions, the right to privacy, equal protection and religious freedom.

In 2023, Gordon allowed the Life is a Human Right Act, a general ban on abortions that is currently being challenged, to become law without his signature. In a letter accompanying that decision, the governor encouraged lawmakers to allow time for the court to determine whether such bans are constitutional. Gordon did sign the second ban outlawing chemical abortions, which also has been challenged. Owens halted enforcement of both bans while the case plays out in court.

Marti Halverson, president of Right to Life of Wyoming, which tried unsuccessfully to intervene in the case to defend the bans, told the Jackson Hole Daily that she was surprised and disappointed by the governors veto.

Dr. Giovannina Anthony, one of the plaintiffs fighting the bans, called HB 148 a really bad bill.

Its basically an anti-abortion bill that is posing as an abortion regulation bill that claims to make women safer, Anthony said. But all of the barriers created by the bill  ultrasound requirements, waiting periods, outpatient surgery center requirements ... all of these things would have made it virtually impossible for women to obtain an abortion in the state.

Anthony said she was surprised by the governors veto.

Im also super happy about the outcome because it means we can focus on the prior legal challenge without having to waste more time and money on a fresh challenge, Anthony said.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, both ultrasound requirements and facility requirements are medically unnecessary regulations aimed at blocking abortion access. The physicians association calls such Targeted Regulation of Abortion Provider laws TRAP laws.

While Rep. Byron voted for the abortion regulation bill, which passed on a 53-9 vote in the House, he said in retrospect its a bad bill.

He said he didnt hear any opposition to the bill from Teton and Lincoln counties until 10 days after he returned from the session. He never wanted to take rights away from women in his community, he said. Medical professionals and experts told Byron that it was a TRAP bill that limited access to womens health care, and the lawmaker said that in the future he will lean on those more knowledgeable.

Such laws have been successfully challenged in the past. In 2016, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down regulations requiring hospital admitting privileges and sophisticated operating rooms for Texas abortion providers. But the U.S. Supreme Courts June 2022 Dobbs ruling now turns over decisions about abortion access to the states.

The ACLU of Wyoming also praised Gordons veto, writing in a press release that people will still be able to make their own health care decisions regarding abortion without government interference.

Gordon had vetoed seven bills in their entirety as of press time Friday and vetoed portions of four other bills.
Editors: A photo to go with the following story may be found in todays folder. See cutline information below.

Older residents tend to buy houses from the states limited stock, leaving few options for the workers theyll depend on for care as they ageWyoming faces an array of future affordable housing challenges, but one big hurdle is an aging population.

The state is projected to experience moderate population growth in the coming years, a new Wyoming Community Development Authority housing needs assessment found. However, the aging of the population has deep implications for future housing needs, as older adults living longer independently accelerate housing demand.

To illustrate that trend, the report estimates that people 65 and older made up 12% of the population in 2010, growing to 17% in 2021. By 2030, the report projects theyll make up 23%.

New vital statistics published by the Wyoming Department of Health also show that the number of births in Wyoming continues to drop, from 6,568 in 2019 to just under 6,000 in 2023. Student enrollment has also fallen in recent years.

One implication of the aging population is that they tend to buy more housing, including certain kinds of single-family houses, according to Scott Hoversland, executive director of the Wyoming Community Development Authority.

Youre looking at someone that may need modifications to households for accessibility measures, he said. Or if they buy a new home, they have to have [Americans with Disabilities Act] compliance, so they can get around. Wider doors, ramps to get in, and also, therell be some of those in-home care needs.

The increased demand for in-home nursing care and other services means those often lower-paid workers will need access to housing they can afford.

But, as the report found, its difficult for people in most professions in Wyoming to buy a house, and in most counties, pay raises arent keeping up with rent increases.

The report shows one impediment to getting more of these workers is housing, citing work from the University of Wyoming Center for Business and Economic Analysis.

The hurdles to homeownership and affordable rentals represent a broader challenge to U.S. growth as the workforce necessary for new and expanding businesses struggles to find a sufficient supply of affordable housing, the UW report states.

If older residents buy up the existing housing stock but need younger workers to support them, or even to support nursing homes and assisted living facilities, then where will these younger workers live?

Its an especially key question when it comes to the needs of people with dementia and Alzheimers disease. As of 2020, there were about 10,600 Wyoming residents age 65 and over with Alzheimers dementia, according to the latest Alzheimers Association report. As the number of older residents increases, this number will likely rise, too  the disease affects about 11% of this population.

To care for them, the group expects Wyoming will need a 33% increase in home health and personal care aid workers between 2020 and 2030 (not to mention the thousands of unpaid caregivers already working in the state).

Solutions

There will be strategic planning efforts across the state to draw local and Wyoming-wide solutions from this report, Hoversland said, but there were some suggestions in the document already.

Those came in part from citations of a Harvard Growth Lab report on Wyoming. Researchers involved in that report found a need to ease local housing regulations requiring larger plots or structures, change zoning laws, increase public input when planning housing projects and [f]acilitate and expand local access to infrastructure funds for water and sewage.

The Wyoming Community Development Authority identified places that were already planning to take these kinds of actions, including in Natrona, Park and Albany counties, as well as Gillette and Laramie.

But Hoversland said there could be more solutions related specifically to the aging population to come that could help Wyoming communities.

With the aging demographics, thats part of what the strategic plan has to [look at], he said. What are we going to do about care facilities and those types of things? Thats not something we deal with at WCDA  But that is part of whats going to have to be looked at on a statewide level.

WyoFile is an independent nonprofit news organization focused on Wyoming people, places and policy.
FOLLOWING a spate of robberies at its outlets across the country in just over a year and a half, Massy Stores yesterday replaced the firm responsible for its security.

G4S Secure Solutions Trinidad Ltd yesterday assumed the role of security provider for Massy Stores, replacing Amalgamated Security Services Ltd.
An elderly man visiting Trinidad from Canada has been murdered in his familys home by intruders.

The body of Hilton Smith, 75, was found on Friday on a bed. His mouth was gagged, and his feet and hands tied.
GABORONE, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Botswana Oil Limited announced on Tuesday that multinational oil companies will be banned from importing petroleum products into Botswana from April 1.

According to the new mandate, 90 percent of fuel imports required for Botswana shall be imported by Botswana Oil Limited, while 10 percent will remain imported by locally owned companies.

"This new mandate will trim the dominance and prevalence of multinationals in the sector, creating investment opportunities for local companies," said Baruti Regoeng, a principal engineer at the Department of Energy within the Ministry of Minerals and Energy, when addressing the media Tuesday.

The new development is also expected to ensure the security of supply, balance the interests of suppliers, retailers, and consumers, and encourage citizen participation to ensure a reliable countrywide supply of fuels, Regoeng said, insisting that the development will face many challenges.

"But we should not despair. We are stopping something and starting something to improve on it. The government is determined to strategically promote citizen-owned companies in the petroleum sector," he said.

Botswana Oil Limited is the national oil company incorporated in 2013 under the Companies Act (2008) and wholly owned by the government through the Ministry of Minerals and Energy. 
Last Tuesday, 17 prison officers and six inmates were injured at the Port of Spain prison.

Social media had described the incident as a riot, but when contacted by the Express, Commissioner of Prisons Deopersad Ramoutar downplayed the event, stating in a media release later that it was all in a days work for the prison officers who are at times, undervalued, and unappreciated. Everyones injuries were said to be minor, although all the officers involved were still sent on sick leave.
The University of Arizona would have a big name provost if it hired Fouad Abd-El-Khalick, the finalist joked to a crowd of about 75 at his official candidate talk on campus on Tuesday.

Though he isnt widely known outside of academic circles, Abd-El-Khalick, the current dean of the School of Education at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, joked that his long last name could be a good selling point.

Abd-El-Khalick, who spoke to an additional 300 people watching the presentation via Zoom, spent the talk discussing his background and experience in his final push to be named provost. The other two candidates, who have yet to be unveiled, will visit campus to do the same in the coming weeks.

I could not think of a place with a better fit as Im thinking about my next stage in my professional career, he said. Im looking forward to the possibility of engaging in a conversation around what would be the next decade for Arizona as you continue to grow.

Despite the $177 million deficit at the university, Abd-El-Khalick remained optimistic about the path forward.

I sincerely believe that you have what it takes to be the leading preeminent political research university, he said, adding that the UA is one of the best hidden secrets.

As for what hed do to help reign in the financial crisis?

I hope that when we do this work, when you do this work here, youre going to (be kind) to your most vulnerable and find a way to distribute the load such that everyone somehow feels a little bit of pain to lessen severe pain, he said.

After graduating from the American University of Beirut, Lebanon and he came to the United States in 1995 to earn his PhD in science education from Oregon State University. He returned to Lebanon to teach before taking a job at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign in 2000. After working his way up at the university, he was hired in 2016 to helm the School of Education at UNC.

Abd-El-Khalick said that his time at University of Illinois and UNC have impacted his experience and expertise.

Im deeply committed to the values and the research teaching and service mission of these universities, he said. We do have the bandwidth and expertise to take on the most challenging problems and questions that face humanity engaged in leading edge research and creative activities.

The role of the provost, Abd-El-Khalick said, is as advocate in chief for faculty, staff students and academic leaders.

I think of the provost as a convener, he said. This is the person who works across the whole campus community, weaving across all these different and amazing things going on to make sure were all pulling in the same direction.

One of the main components of Abd-El-Khalicks presentation was his commitment to diversity.

During his tenure at UNC, he increased percentage of faculty who identified as racial and ethnic minorities from 21% to a record-high of 32%. If you expand the pool to include national origin and sexual identity in measures of diversity, the number is 43%, making the School of Education one of the most diverse at the whole university.

Abd-El-Khalick said he sees diversity as layered into every aspect of on-campus life.

The traditional archetype of a student these universities have been built (around) is different, he said. Its a different generation (now), with a different set of students: non-traditional, first-generation, veterans, students with children. Its important for us to think about providing support.

Part of the ways to provide that support, he said, was through philanthropy. Abd-El-Khalick pointed to the $4.25 billion campaign that UNC Chapel Hill started about eight years ago, which was the largest for a public university in the south. The campaign, which he helped fundraise for, closed with $5 billion.

Philanthropy is a huge, huge dimension for us, he said. You have amazing opportunities; you have 300,000 living alumni.

He added that 30% of his job as dean of the UNC School of Education was working on fundraising. He helped bring on a fundraising team that brought in $8.2 million in one year to the School of Education; that was a twice the historical record for the school.

As far as Im concerned, part of the position description of deans and academic leaders is fundraising, he said. We need to also invest in our faculty and create ambassador programs to train our faculty on how to work with donors.

Part of the importance of philanthropy, he added, was to help assist the mission of the land-grant university.

Its about being there in partnership with the communities, particularly through outreach work, he said when asked by an audience member about his thoughts on the land-grant mission. The philanthropic training is fulfilling this in terms of serving underserved communities out there.
Migrant-aid advocates and officials in Arizonas border communities are breathing a sigh of relief after Congress renewed federal funding that has been critical to preventing legally processed migrants from being left unsheltered on the streets.

But uncertainty remains over the long-term future of Southern Arizonas migrant-aid effort.

The short-term nature of the funding infusion means in a few months, the region will likely be facing another funding crisis, said Sobeira Castro, Santa Cruz Countys emergency management director.

Were very happy overall, in the sense that were able to continue to help the migrants, she said. But at the same time, we are worried.  Its like a sweet-and-sour feeling: Sweet because now were able to help; sour because we know theres not enough money.

Recently, the number of legally processed migrants released by border agents in the Nogales area has dipped to between 150 and 200 per day, down from about 800 daily, likely due to the cold weather slowing migration south of the border, Castro said.

It decreased tremendously starting two weeks ago, Castro said. But the volume of arrivals could surge at any time, she said.

Without continued federal support, and help from Pima Countys migrant shelters run by Casa Alitas, small border communities wouldnt have the resources or shelter space to handle the influx of migrant arrivals.

Since 2019 Pima County has been coordinating the regions migrant-aid effort, providing short-term shelter  usually one or two nights  and helping migrants continue quickly to their final destinations.

That coordination was set to end April 1, with the exhaustion of current federal funds, leaving newly arrived migrants  many of whom dont speak English or Spanish  unsheltered overnight in unfamiliar towns along the border, and on the streets of Tucson.

Pima County leaders announced Monday that the newly approved $650 million in Shelter and Services Program federal funding, to be divided among communities throughout the U.S., would allow the region to prevent those unsheltered releases.

Since the beginning of September, a church-based migrant-aid program in Douglas has served 8,000 migrants on their way to Tucson or Phoenix, before reaching their final destinations, said Daniel Duchon, emergency management director for Cochise County.

Thanks to their work, in Cochise County, all the street releases were sheltered, or received day respite, Duchon said. Nobody was actually on the street overnight.

Migrants then were able to ride in state-sponsored buses to reach nongovernment organizations or NGOs in Tucson or Phoenix, for help continuing on their journey to reach family or sponsors in the interior of the country.

The faith-based community in Douglas received an outpouring of donations and volunteers to support their work, Duchon said.

This (effort) received no federal funding. It was 100% donations or in-kind services, he said.

Looking for savings

Pima County expects to receive at least $12.7 million of the approved Shelter and Services Program funding. That should last at least three months, depending on the volume of migrant arrivals at the U.S.-Mexico border.

County Administrator Jan Lesher has directed county staff and Casa Alitas to continue seeking ways to cut costs and find efficiencies, in order to stretch those funds as long as possible.

The cost of serving migrants at Casa Alitas is $1 million per week, when the number of daily arrivals is 1,000 or more. But recently, Casa Alitas has been receiving about half that volume of migrant arrivals, reducing costs.

Casa Alitas director Diego Pina Lopez said the nonprofit program has been looking at ways to reduce meal costs from $5 per meal to $1 per meal, by switching to ramen noodles, fruit and a snack. And so far, guests at Casa Alitas shelter seem to enjoy the more affordable food options, he said.

People actually really like to eat ramen. Its not necessarily just a college phase, he said.

Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva said the county is focused on being the best stewards of federal money. But the unpredictability in funding streams, and in the number of daily migrant arrivals at Casa Alitas, make it a challenge to find cost-efficiencies.

One day it could be 300 (migrant arrivals), or another day 1,200, she said. You pay a premium for any organization to be that flexible.

But the savings are out there: For example, Casa Alitas relies on rented, portable outdoor showers at its Drexel facility, she said.

Im asking about whether it makes sense to purchase, versus lease, Grijalva said. Whenever we no longer need them for this particular situation, we could always share it with the city of Tucson.

SSP funding is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in coordination with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, to support public and nongovernmental migrant-aid organizations at the state and local levels.

The funds have allowed Pima County to move legally processed migrants quickly and efficiently through this community and onward to their final destinations in the interior of the country, Lesher wrote in a Tuesday memo to the county Board of Supervisors. This bipartisan achievement championed by many in the Arizona congressional delegation and the governor underscores the critical nature of this federal investment to support of border communities.

Contracts that were up in the air before the federal funding was assured will soon be brought back before the Board of Supervisors for approval, Lesher wrote in the memo.

I have sufficient confidence in the federal reassurances of funding that I have directed county staff to work with Catholic Community Services to plan for continued operations at the Ajo and Drexel facilities beyond the end of this month, Lesher said. This includes providing notice to supporting contractors and vendors of our need for their continued services.

Pina Lopez said the scramble to prepare for expected loss of federal funding on April 1, and then receiving more funds at almost the last minute, has been an emotional whirlwind.

I broke down last night crying with relief, he said on Tuesday. At the same time, its only three months.

Casa Alitas is basically operating paycheck-to-paycheck, he said, and donations from the public will still be critical for Casa Alitas migrant-aid efforts.

I should be celebrating but at the same time, I have to keep my eyes on the ship and be wary that were not out of the storm just yet, Pina Lopez said. We should continue to hope that we see funding that not only lasts us for three months, but that lasts us for a lot longer than that.
PHOENIX  Republican House Speaker Ben Toma has formed a special panel to look into the practices of state elected officials  starting with Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes.

Toma wants a committee of five Republicans and three Democrats to investigate allegations of abuse of power, dereliction of duty and malfeasance.

The panel is supposed to develop legislation and other measures to promote the rule of law and deter partisan abuse and weaponization of the office of Arizona Attorney General or other state offices, he announced Tuesday.

Toma said there was no one particular thing that led to his decision.

She potentially crossed the line a few different times, he told Capitol Media Services.

One, said Toma, was bringing felony charges against the two Republican supervisors in Cochise County accusing them of interfering with the 2022 election. The two, Tom Crosby and Peggy Judd, initially refused to complete the canvass after the vote as they questioned whether the tabulating machines were properly certified. Judd finally complied, but only after being ordered to do so by a judge who ruled state law is clear the supervisors were required to certify the vote. Trial for Crosby and Judd is set for later this year.

Toma also cited Mayes warnings she would prosecute Mohave County supervisors if they pursued their plan to scrap machine counting of ballots in favor of a hand count. The State Court of Appeals had upheld a judges decision in another county that county boards had no legal authority to require hand counts. The Mohave supervisors backed off, though one, Ron Gould, filed suit over what he called Mayes threats and intimidation.

The House speaker also said there have been complaints Mayes threatened parents who use the program that provides universal vouchers of tax dollars to send their children to private or parochial schools.

Mayes issued a warning last year to parents that they may risk losing certain protections, guaranteed to parents of public school children under federal law, if they use vouchers to leave public schools. She said those include free and appropriate education for students with disabilities and access to a childs educational records.

Thats not her role, Toma said. That shouldnt be her role.

The attorney general has been a critic of the voucher program, and she has brought charges against some individuals accused of voucher-related fraud.

Mayes, for her part, called Tomas action an effort to boost his chances of winning what could be a close race to be the Republican nominee for the U.S. House seat being vacated by Debbie Lesko.

Apparently, every legislator currently running for Congress cant move fast enough to open a new inquiry into how Ive done the job of attorney general, Mayes said in a written statement.

This is just another political stunt from a majority party that doesnt seem to have solutions for many of the major issues facing our state, she added.

House Minority Leader Lupe Contreras said he wont appoint any Democrats to serve on the panel.

Republican lawmakers should be focused on doing their jobs passing bills and making policy, not doing everybody elses work, Contreras said.

Toma said thats up to Contreras and the Democratic caucus to decide. But he said it wont sideline the investigation. He said there is an inherent obligation under the Arizona Constitution to conduct appropriate oversight of the executive branch.

What is clear is that Mayes has incurred the wrath of many Republicans by refusing to defend certain state laws.

For example, Mark Brnovich, her predecessor, had taken the legal position that the 2022 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade allowed Arizona to again enforce its territorial-era law that outlaws abortion except to save the life of the mother. When Mayes took office in January 2023, she instead sided with Planned Parenthood Arizona and its argument that a more recent law allowing doctors to terminate pregnancies through 15 weeks took precedence.

A decision on that issue is pending before the Arizona Supreme Court.

Mayes also declined to defend a 2022 state law that forbids transgender girls from participating in girls sports. She disqualified herself, saying her views did not align with those of Republican state schools chief Tom Horne, who is the defendant in the case. Legislative leaders ended up hiring their own attorneys.

Mayes also is investigating whether any laws were broken by 11 Republicans who signed a statement falsely declaring after the 2020 election that Donald Trump had won Arizona and sent a notice to the National Archives that they were the official state electors when they were not.

Toma said his decision isnt rash. This has been in the works for awhile, he said. I didnt want to rush it. I just felt that now is the time.

Mayes said she wont be deterred by the probe.

As I have done for the past year, I will continue to focus my time and the resources of my office on protecting Arizona consumers from fraud and corruption, prosecuting elder abuse cases, protecting the environment and our groundwater supply, and fighting the fentanyl crisis, she said.

While the investigation is billed as seeking facts and proposing new laws, that leaves the possibility of a different legislative action: impeachment. It takes only a simple majority of the House to bring charges and force a trial in the Senate. And Republicans control 31 of the 60 seats.

I suppose anythings possible at this point, Toma said, though he said thats not what was behind his initial decision to launch the investigation.

The job of the committee is to determine if laws were broken, he said. If laws were broken, well have to decide whats next.

This is the second legislative inquiry into Mayes.

In February, Sen. Anthony Kern, R-Glendale, who also is running for the congressional seat Lesko is leaving, got the Senate Judiciary Committee he chairs to launch its own probe.

Kern said at the time there had been a flood of questionable activity from Mayes office. He specifically mentioned the charges against the two Cochise County supervisors, calling that a witch hunt against local elected officials.

On Tuesday, Kern  himself one of the fake 2020 electors being investigated by Mayes  told Capitol Media Services the investigation is ongoing, and data and information are being gathered.
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:

As a survivor of gun violence, I have worked tirelessly to prevent others from the pain and suffering of this crisis. Yet Senator Justine Wadsack has disregarded this constituents and other survivors experiences, failing to represent the interest of gun violence survivors and her constituents.

During the past few weeks, Moms Demand Action volunteers from across our state have been meeting with lawmakers to discuss the states gun violence crisis and urge urgent action. Yet that is a luxury Senator Wadsack has denied this constituent. Lawmakers should be open-minded and engage in real conversations on behalf of the well-being of their district. But just like last year, Senator Wadsack has again refused to meet with her constituents.

As her constituent, I simply want the chance to sit down with Senator Wadsack and look her in the eye as I describe what it feels like to be gunned down by an assailant using an assault rifle that he had modified with a bump stock.

I want to be able to describe to her in detail the damage the bullet did as it tore through my body. The bullet damaged my colon, put a hole in my pelvis and remains lodged in my oblique muscle near my ribs. My colon needed to be surgically repaired. Surgeons also needed to inspect the organs near my colon to ensure the bullet had not damaged them.

This procedure required an 8-inch incision down the middle of my stomach. I spent a week in a Las Vegas hospital recovering from the surgery. After I returned home, I spent another three months recovering from the physical wounds.

I want the opportunity to share with her what it is like to deal with the lifelong effects of post-traumatic stress disorder. There are certain triggers that cause the horrific visuals I saw and sounds I heard that night to come flooding back.

Visuals like the sight of a group of friends frantically loading their friends bullet riddled body into a wheelbarrow normally used for ice and running with him towards the exit. The sight of lifeless men who had attempted to save their wives by lying on top of them to shield them from bullets. The feeling of blood spattering on my face when the woman next to me was shot in the neck and for an instant wondering if that blood was my husbands. The screams of people as they realized their loved one was fatally wounded. The sound of the young girl lying next to me in the hospital triage room begging for her mother and repeatedly screaming she did not want to die alone. These are just a few examples of the sights and sounds from that night that continue to haunt me.

I want the opportunity to share with her the devastating effects gun violence has on the families of those impacted by it. My 83-year-old mother misunderstood my husband when he made the call to let her know I had been wounded and thought for over an hour that I had been shot in the head. For that agonizing hour she was convinced I was dead. My two sons have watched me struggle with my Route 91 demons and it has not been easy on them. My husband has stood by my side through it all, but the fact remains he is now married to a very different person. My sister has seen me literally transform into a different person when a trigger takes me right back to that place of utter panic and fear.

As a constituent, I want the opportunity to ask Senator Wadsack firsthand why she feels the need to protect the rights of gun owners over my right to be safe, and pose in front of the Capitol with a rifle  not unlike the one I was shot with  in a bid for campaign donations.

This session, she has voted to advance bills that would force guns into college dorms and classrooms and give people a license to kill anyone who happens to walk onto their property.

This November, all eyes will be on Arizonas eleven Electoral College votes, but for gun violence survivors, we will be keeping extra attention on Senator Wadsack and other extremist lawmakers that have wasted the Legislatures time this year on dangerous policies. It is time we vote Senator Wadsack and other lawmakers like her out of office and replace them with lawmakers who are at the very least willing to meet with their constituents who have experienced the horrific impacts of gun violence firsthand.
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:

If you dont need to be home right now, its best you arent.

This call has become far too common in my life from the Tucson Police Department. As a Jewish State Representative in Arizona, I have been a target of antisemitic attacks for years, and sadly, Ive witnessed a significant surge in such hatred since Oct. 7. The rise of antisemitism is not just a local issue; its a global epidemic that threatens the very fabric of our society.

Antisemitism is not a new phenomenon; it has deep roots in history, fueled by prejudice, ignorance, and intolerance. However, in recent times, it has reared its ugly head with alarming frequency and intensity. The sad reality is that Oct. 7 was an earth-shattering event for all Jews. It reminded us that our sense of security was a thin veil that could be pulled aside to reveal a simmering hatred at any time.

Im a vocal Zionist who believes in the right of the Jewish people to have self-determination in their ancestral homeland. Im not shy about my beliefs and never will be, but its not just elected leaders who support Israel being targeted. Just in the last two weeks, a dear friend who is progressive and works as a public defender was attacked and spat on in downtown Tucson for the transgression of being a Jew, not because he had an Israeli flag on his car but a star of David. That proves what I have been saying for years: Anti-zionism is antisemitism, and those who are protesting do not separate Jews from Israel because you cannot. All Jewish community events, regardless of whether there is a mention of Israel, are a target. Thats why so many of my fellow Jews have gotten used to having a police presence at community and religious events. In 2024, being a Jew means you are called upon to justify your existence and the policies of the Israeli government.

Im being criticized for recently leading a bipartisan delegation to Israel. No one batted an eye when lawmakers have taken trips to Mexico, Ukraine, Canada, Germany, and Taiwan, to name a few. Yet when I led a trip to Israel, I was attacked. There was no attempt to ask why the trip happened or what we did; instead, there was the instinctual mistrust and assumption that something nefarious was happening because it was Israel. So, once again, in the face of personal attacks and Jew-hatred, I must stand up for myself and my community, feeling that their mere existence is constantly under threat.

Im reminded of a quote Golda Meir, the first female head of state in the Middle East, used to be fond of: Ein breira. Simply, it means no choice. As Ive sadly had to learn, Jews have no choice but to stand up for themselves because the alternative is our demise.

So, I wanted to tell people in my own words why we took a trip to Israel just a few short days ago.

Our delegation took a 4-day trip and met with diverse voices in the region.

We met with Bedouins, who are Muslim citizens of Israel, who shared with us their fight to improve the lives of their fellow Arab Israelis. We also heard from a young man who is Muslim and has two family members who were taken hostage on Oct. 7. Despite them being Muslim, they were not spared the horrors that so many saw on that dark Saturday by Hamas terrorists.

We had dinner with a prominent Palestinian journalist from the West Bank who had a frank conversation about how, despite what has happened, we can still fight for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. He criticized both leaders in the Israeli government and the Palestinian Authority for failing their respective peoples.

We also heartbreakingly met with families who had loved ones murdered in cold blood or taken hostage by Hamas five months ago. Oct. 7 was the single worst day for Jews since the Holocaust.

We ended our trip with a visit to Yad Vashem, the national holocaust museum, where we saw how antisemitism ended with the murder of over 6 million Jews in Europe. So when people ask why we took this trip, I answer simply because we had to.

We had to go and see firsthand how, despite all that has happened, there are people like Elana Kaminka, whose 21-year-old son was murdered protecting civilians on Oct. 7. She is pushing for peace with her Palestinian neighbors in the West Bank.

We had to go to hear from Itzik, a 70-year-old man who has to go to dialysis three times a week, like my own father, and despite the physical and emotional toll it takes on him, he goes to meet with leaders like us to tell us about his two sons taken hostage and still being held in Gaza by Hamas.

We had to go because five months in, there are still over 130 people still being held hostage by Hamas. This awful war could end if Hamas cared more about helping Palestinians than they cared about killing Jews. We had to go because even though we live in Arizona, we have young people who dont know what the Holocaust is or why anti-Semitism isnt merely a Jewish issue.

We had to go because, as Golda used to say  ein breira. We had no choice.






State agencies should not promote firearms

I am an 11th grader. Gun violence is the leading cause of death in Arizona among teens my age. I grew up training for active shooter events at school. My neighborhood grocery store is the Safeway, where Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and 18 others were shot in 2011. I go there all the time. People still leave flowers and stuffed animals by the memorial near the entrance.

Recently, the Arizona Game and Fish Department held a free, two-day expo at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in Phoenix that targeted families and provided opportunities to try out firearms and purchase the latest equipment and products.

Why is this OK? Why is the State of Arizona involved in promoting firearms? Shouldnt the NRA or gun dealers organize an event of this type  not Arizona?

Tae Esperanza Cooper

Northwest side

Republicans love a good heist

The recent attempt by House Republicans to rob Social Security of $1.5 trillion and hike the retirement age represents their contempt for hard-working people. Although the government has long promised these benefits as a steadfast safety net for a lifetime of contributions, Republicans have manipulated the narrative to advance their agenda.

Social Security is a lifeline for older adults. For many, its their main source of income, said U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY). The brazen actions of Republicans, moving in lockstep to threaten our financial stability, risk pushing many into homelessness  a move that amounts to nothing short of theft. This issue transcends policy. It is a mugging masked as fiscal prudence.

In November, our vote will determine the future. Elect leaders who will safeguard our lives and honor commitments. Choose those who are committed to serving the public, rather than kowtowing to the wealthy. Vote like your life depends on it. Vote blue.

Kim Miklofsky Bayne

Foothills

Apology to future generations

I am 85 and feel compelled to apologize to future generations for the damage that my and subsequent generations have done. We have, collectively, through greed and ignorance, severely compromised the future world environment, diminished the prestige of America and initiated a decline in the quality of life for my and your grandkids and great-grandkids. Im sorry. Perhaps the present generation in power will work to remediate what we have done. I hope so.

Dennis Winsten

Northeast side

Enjoy making something

Re: the March 24 article Helping teens soar.

What a breath of fresh air it was to read your article! It made me think of my high school years, during which I could choose to take shop classes such as metal working and auto repair in addition to my academic classes. Shop classes require a melding of physical and mental skills that develop mental pathways different from book learning. Most teenagers, as well as many adults today, have none of these skills. Try a hands-on hobby and enjoy making something!

Douglas Granrath

Foothills

Educator calls for ban on flavored vapes

As a former educator, I saw the progress that was made from programs like D.A.R.E. that taught students to say no to drugs and alcohol. Unfortunately, that progress is being undermined by the proliferation of flavored tobacco vapes.

These vape products specifically target young people with candy-like flavors and shiny packaging. Despite being illegal, theyre still flooding the market, and their numbers keep increasing. Now, there are more than 9,000 different vapes on the market, according to a recent FDA story on the issue.

The FDA has the authority to crack down on these products and ban their sale, and the FDA needs to follow through on that authority.

Leaders like Attorney General Mayes have already said that more needs to be done to crack down on flavored vapes. I encourage other elected leaders like Senator Sinema, Senator Kelly, and Congressman Gallego to urge the FDA to do its job and crack down on these illegal flavored vape products.

Susan Youngblood

Foothills

Re: Bidenflation

Re: the March 25 letter Bidenflation.

The letter writer blames the rise in prices of gasoline and eggs on President Biden, which is disingenuous at best and deceitful at worst. Perhaps Fox News has not reported on the bird flu epidemic two years ago that killed 82 million chickens nationwide, most of them laying hens. A smaller epidemic recurred in late 2023.

And perhaps the letter writer is not aware that six months ago, the Houthis began attacking ships in the Red Sea, disrupting the sale and delivery of Middle Eastern oil. American gasoline companies immediately raised prices, despite the fact that the vast majority of our oil supply was not affected by the attacks. I doubt President Biden initiated either the flu epidemic or the Houthi attacks.

Bruce Hilpert
A security guard at a Tucson convenience store shot and killed a man Monday night after witnessing him shoot a woman during an argument, police say.

The shootings happened about 9:45 p.m. at a Quik Trip store in the 1400 block of South Alvernon Way, south of East 22nd Street, Tucson police said Tuesday in a news release.

Officers arrived to find Isaiah Brewster, 23, unresponsive and a 28-year-old woman with gunshot wounds to her lower extremities, the release said.

Brewster died at the scene. The woman was taken to a hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening, the release said. No one else was wounded.

Witnesses told police that Brewster had been arguing with a couple in the parking when he pulled a gun and shot the woman. People told the security guard who went outside, saw the confrontation then shot Brewster, the release said.

Police did not identify the security guard.

No charges were filed in the case, though police will submit their findings to the Pima County Attorneys Office for review, the release said.
DAKAR, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Bassirou Diomaye Faye, the candidate of the opposition coalition "Diomaye President," has won Senegal's presidential election, according to results released Wednesday by the country's National Vote Counting Commission.

Faye secured a total of 2,434,751 votes, constituting 54.28 percent of the total votes cast, said Amady Diouf, the commission's president, during a press conference held in Dakar, the country's capital. The voter turnout rate was 61.30 percent.

His closest rival, Amadou Ba, representing the ruling coalition, trailed behind with 35.79 percent of the votes.

Aged 44, Faye was born in Ndiaganiao, located 115 km east of Dakar. He holds a master's degree in law from Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar. In 2004, he passed the entrance exam to the National School of Administration and became a tax inspector after graduation.

He served as the secretary general of the African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (PASTEF) party, which was dissolved by presidential decree in July 2023.

Faye was imprisoned in April 2023 and was released on March 14 following the enactment of an amnesty law by outgoing President Macky Sall. 
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

Ballets based on Shakespeares Romeo & Juliet are usually programmed for the month of February, when all things related to love and romance are in the air.

Tulsa Ballet chose to present its version of this tale of star-crossed lovers, created for the company by choreographer Edwaard Liang in 2012, this past weekend at the Tulsa PAC.

Removing it from the saccharine sentiments of Valentines Day helped emphasize the truly tragic nature of this story of two young people who find themselves overwhelmed by a passion they barely comprehend, and that will ultimately, inevitably consume them.

This is the third time Tulsa Ballet has staged Liangs work, and it remains one of the most effective contemporary narrative ballets weve ever seen. The story is streamlined without sacrificing any of its emotional richness, the physical production is properly sumptuous, the sword-fighting scenes are vigorous and exciting, and the choreography is both physically demanding and richly evocative.

We saw the opening night performance Friday, with principal dancers Jun Masuda as Romeo and Nao Ota as Juliet. Both dancers are superb technical dancers, capable of completing breathtaking moves with deceptive ease.

They also are equally superb actors, something that is vitally important for a ballet such as this. The tragedy at the heart of Romeo & Juliet is, essentially, the hubris of youth  that impetuous willingness to charge headlong down uncertain paths, heedless of the consequences of their actions until it is too late.

Masuda and Ota were absolutely convincing as the teenaged lovers. Their performance in the Balcony scene that closes Act One was full of chaste passion, as the two begin to comprehend the power of the attraction they feel for each other, where a brief kiss, a simple touch of the hand, can contain so much feeling.

Otas performance of the Act Three solo, in which Juliet begins to understand the magnitude of what may happen as a result of her romance with Romeo, was a tour de force of dramatic dancing, embodying everything from the bliss of an afterglow to a vision of her ultimate fate, as the ghosts of Tybalt and Mercutio appear to lead her through a haunting pas de trois.

Jonathan Teague Applegate danced Mercutio, Romeos high-spirited friend, who provided a good deal of the ballets comedy with his exuberantly rakish antics before a fatal sword fight with Juliets cousin, Tybalt.

Former principal dancer Arman Zazyan, who danced Mercutio the last time Tulsa ballet presented Romeo & Juliet, brought a suave villainy to this role, with a coiled energy that would explode once the swords came out.

This was was Zazyans final performance with Tulsa Ballet  he will be joining the Hamburg Ballet in Germany as ballet master later this year.

The company as a whole was in excellent form, as ensemble scenes transformed from joyous celebrations to flashy armed combat (the fight scenes were choreographed by J. Steven Wright).

Resident conductor Enrique Carreon-Robledo led the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra in a powerful, sparkling performance of the Sergei Prokofiev score, full of color and spirit (and, unfortunately, some less-than-pristine passages from the French horns).

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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

It is 8:40 a.m. on a chilly, windy Saturday morning, and already there are about a dozen people lined up outside the door of Country Bird Bakery.

The shop, at 1644 E. Third St., wont open for another 20 minutes, and in that time the line of people waiting to get in will more than triple in size.

One reason is because Country Bird Bakery is usually open only one day a week  Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. And favorite items can sell out before closing time rolls around.

Some people waiting for the shop to open are regulars, like Tulsans Courtney Rowsay and Olivia Crozier, who got here early enough to snag the fourth place in line.

Weve been coming here for just about a year, Rowsay said. Its become a part of our weekend routine.

I love the special croissants, Crozier said. They always have new flavors to try, and Im trying to sample all of them.

Rowsay likes to get the take-and-bake croissants because that way you can get them the way you like. I prefer croissants to be a little doughier than how theyre baked here.

Another regular customer, Anne Bush, is decked out in a knit hat, gloves and a long, puffy coat.

I wear this every Saturday, because you can never be too warm, Bush said. But bundling up is all the preparation she does for her regular excursions to Country Bird Bakery. I never come here looking for specific things. It doesnt really matter, because everything is great. I like to just go in and see whats there, and buy whatever strikes me as interesting.

Others are here for the first time  and were not quite prepared for a long wait when the temperature is 38 degrees and the wind was blowing cold from the northwest.

It was obvious by the way Kristen Knapp-Webb clutched the knitted shawl she had wrapped around herself that it wasnt doing a good job of keeping out the cold. But she was not to be deterred.

Im relatively new to Tulsa, and I have been trying to check out the food scene as much as I can, she said. I learned about this place when I was at Heirloom Brewery. They carry some things from here. I had an everything bagel croissant. It was gigantic and delicious  it took me all day to finish it, and I knew I had to see what else they had.

And some made a stop at Country Bird Bakery part of a cross-country road trip. Blake Miracle and Shelley Murray are traveling from Indianapolis to San Antonio and decided to take their time, stopping and exploring various cities along the way.

We were at a coffee shop in the Greenwood area (Fulton Street Books & Coffee) and overheard the barista telling the people in front of us that we had to come here, Murray said.

Added Miracle, We were wanting to check out as many of Tulsas unique places as we could, and this sounded like a good idea.

On this particular Saturday morning, Country Bird Bakery had about 30 kinds of baked goods ready, from straightforward sourdough loaves of bread to sumac cinnamon rolls, from baguettes made with spelt flour to Danish pastries filled with carrot, harissa, olive, mint and chevre.

We currently have nine kinds of bread, approximately 20 pastries, our house-made butter and other spreads and soups, along with sandwiches, said Cat Cox, owner and head baker at Country Bird Bakery.

While Saturday is the official open to the public day, Country Bird has started to open on every other Thursday, usually from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Last summer we started opening to the public every other Thursday, Cox said. We wanted a way to serve our community who cant make it on a Saturday. We are still an extremely small team and cant fully commit to every Thursday, so every other Thursday seems like a good compromise.

The Thursday menus, which like the Saturday menus are posted to the bakerys social media accounts, focus more on lunch items, such as mortadella sandwiches, ham and cheese croissants, and soups such as a velvety carrot curry.

Cox, a Tulsa native, opened Country Bird Bakery in October 2022. An artist by training, with a degree in textiles from the Kansas City Art Institute, Cox said in a 2022 Tulsa World interview that she had always been a home baker, adding that rolling dough came naturally to someone who was used to rolling out hand-made paper for the art she created.

She spent time in New York City, before moving to Marfa, Texas, where she took a job as a prep cook at a local restaurant, ultimately becoming its chef de cuisine.

Cox returned to Tulsa and started working at Living Kitchen Farm & Dairy, the farm-to-table restaurant owned by Linda Ford and chef Lisa Becklund. She began making breads for that enterprise as well as its urban incarnation, FarmBar.

I am still supplying bread to Living Kitchen and Farm Bar, Cox said. Sometimes Lisa will request a certain bread, and other times I just surprise them with what I felt inspired to make that week. Country Bird has the same philosophy as FarmBar and Living Kitchen regarding sourcing and menu developing, so I feel like the bread we make naturally fits into the flow of their menu.

Cox uses locally sourced, seasonally available ingredients as much as is possible for her products.

We have been fortunate to find a variety of locally grown and stone-milled wheats, rye and durum, she said. Oklahomas climate is not good for growing soft wheat you need for pastry applications, but the millers we work with source some from Arizona and mill it here in Oklahoma or Texas.

We obviously cant find local lemons, chocolate or olive oil, as well as more exotic things like yuzu, which is a Japanese citrus that we love and use for special items, she said. So those things we have to source from non-local vendors.

When it comes to strawberries or peaches, Cox said, If those are on our menu, they are coming from a local farm. Once you have a strawberry from Joes Farm (in Bixby), you cant go back to buying out-of-season, pale, anemic strawberries from a distributor. We love to use as much as we can while its fresh and in season. We freeze what we cant get through and save for the winter months when produce is more scarce.

Cox said that, while the menu changes weekly, there are some items customers can always expect to find when Country Birds doors are open. These include the spelt sourdough baguettes, the honey oat porridge loaf and the classic sourdough croissants.

As for her personal favorite, Cox said, Its our monkey bread. Its a mini pull-apart loaf that we make with croissant dough, dip in butter and cinnamon sugar. It reminds me of the cinnamon toast my dad would make for us as a treat growing up. Pie is another comfort pastry because it reminds me of my grandmother. She always had a pie on the counter and sometimes would let us eat it for breakfast.

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Gladstone brought the Blackfoot language to the world stage. Heres why that matters.

okii niiksokowaiks nittaanikkoo piitaakii (no)motootoo siksikaitsiittupii... nittsiikaakomimm.

Hello my relatives, my name is Eagle Woman. I arrived here from the Blackfoot Confederacy.  I love yall!

Thats what Blackfeet Actress Lily Gladstone said in her Golden Globes acceptance speech  first in Blackfoot and then in English  when she made history as the first Indigenous woman to win best actress.

Robert Hall, director of Blackfeet studies at Browning Public Schools, said when Gladstone spoke Blackfoot on the world stage, two things happened.

Some Blackfeet individuals watched the show live and translated Gladstones words to their families.

Other community members, Hall said, watched and didnt know what Gladstone said. Later, they felt inspired to learn and translate her words.

Thats powerful, too, he explained.

From the 1800s to the 1970s, Native children were taken from their homes and forced to attend government-funded Christian boarding schools, where they were emotionally, physically and sexually abused. The explicit mission of these schools was cultural genocide, and tribes, like the Blackfeet, suffered language and culture loss as a result.

Hall said hardly anyone grows up speaking Blackfoot as their first language anymore. Its why, he says, language revitalization is more important now than ever.

We have to be innovative, he said. If were not innovative, were going to die.  Our language is on its deathbed. We cant wait to give it medicine.

Innovate is exactly what Hall has done as he works to create an accessible Blackfoot language rubric.

Hall has a document with thousands of Blackfoot words and counting. In it, he breaks the words down, color coding their syntactic structures.

Prior to this work, Hall said it was common practice for people to spell Blackfoot words however they wanted.

Reading and writing was introduced to us in a violent way  through boarding schools and treaties, Hall explained. So we dont have the greatest trust in reading and writing. And a lot of us think that its a 'white mans' way.  Well say, We dont need that white way  spell it the way you want.

But Hall argues that this methodology not only does a disservice to language learners but also undermines the integrity of the language itself.

Can you imagine reading a book and the same word is spelled different on each page? he asked.

Hall said Piikani, a word referring to a band within the Blackfoot Confederacy, for example, has been phonetically spelled: Bee-gun-knee.

But the silent k in knee, Hall says, exposes how English can infiltrate a Native language.

When you read this, now youre using the English part of your brain, he explained.

Tanner Ironpipe, a senior at Browning High School, said when he first started learning Blackfoot, he was taught to focus on phonetics  paying more attention to how words sound than how they are spelled. Now, he helps Hall develop this new rubric, focusing on spelling and word structure.

We need a writing system, the 17-year-old student said. In fourth and fifth grade, I just memorized words. Now I understand how the language is built. This is important. This is our main way we can express our own culture.
Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie flew into Stillwater in 1954 to thank Oklahoma A & M College officials for the school's help in his country's agricultural program.

And to see an American Indian.

It was the first, and probably only, time a king has visited Oklahoma. Veteran reporters could not recall another time when a reigning monarch visited the state.

Selassie, who claimed to be a descendant of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, added the Stillwater stop to a 50-day visit to the United States, Canada and Mexico as his personal repayment for the interest taken in his nation by the late Henry G. Bennett, who visited Ethiopia four years earlier.

Bennett, former A & M president, had taken a leave from his duties to head President Harry S. Truman's Point Four program that was designed to teach people in other countries "how to get more per acre through better planting, better seeds or better livestock strains." He, his wife and six other Americans were killed in a Dec. 22, 1951, plane crash that also killed 19 others while flying from Baghdad, Iraq, to Tehran, Iran.

Selassie, known as the Conquering Lion of Judah, Elect of God and King of Kings, had himself declared king in 1928 and built schools, roads and hospitals. He created a constitution and a parliament and abolished slavery.

And he was appreciative of the technical assistance provided by Bennett and others from A & M, now Oklahoma State University, in his efforts to improve the country's agriculture.

"The technical assistance they (Bennett and Selassie) worked out became the guts of the Point Four Program that Bennett headed until his death in the plane crash," Hugh Rouk, former Beggs resident, told a reporter several years ago. Rouk spent 14 years in Ethiopia as director of International Education in the office of International Programs at OSU.

Three hundred Oklahomans were invited to a dinner with Selassie in the Student Union Building, and another 1,600 were invited to a reception that followed.

It was understood that Selassie would stand in the receiving line at the reception for only 30 minutes. But he insisted that he didn't want to quit meeting people and shaking hands until all 1,600 at the event had been greeted -- a job that required two hours and 20 minutes.

He told A & M President Oliver S. Willham "the people who came here should be greeted."

"I am very glad indeed to be present with you," the emperor said in his speech that he repeated three times to allow everyone in three connecting rooms to hear.

"Indeed I have made an exception to my usual practice on this trip in leaving my itinerary entirely and making this 2,000-mile trip to express to you my deep appreciation for all that Oklahoma A & M has done and is do ing in technical assistance to Ethiopia."

An aide said Selassie understood English well -- his native tongue was Amharic and he also spoke French -- but he had difficulty speaking it.

A few days before his visit, Selassie had sent word that he would like to meet an American Indian. Tulsa artist Acee Blue Eagle was recruited to meet the Ethiopian ruler at the airport.

Wearing full regalia, Blue Ea gle presented war bonnets, a piece of pottery with native corn meal inside, representing the sustenance of life, and a branch of evergreen representing eternal life, to the emperor, his son and granddaughter.

Blue Eagle named the emperor Great Buffalo High Chief, named his son Thunder Eagle and his granddaughter Princess Morning Star.

Selassie also bestowed Ethiopian names on Gov. Johnston Murray, Oliver Willham, A & M president, and A.E. Darlow, A & M vice president. He gave Blue Eagle a gold medal.

Selassie was deposed in a military coup 21 years later after he had served as king for 58 years. He was found dead in his bed nearly a year later. Official Ethiopian sources said the 83-year-old former ruler's death was caused by complications from a prostate operation. Many of his followers believed he was murdered.

Photograph research by Rachele Vaughan.

Like this column? Read all the columns in the Only in Oklahoma series from the Tulsa World Archive.
Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

CATOOSA  With a compact renewal deadline looming, Cherokee Nation officials distributed $7.9 million in car tag revenue to 107 school districts and charter schools Tuesday.

If we cannot reach an agreement to renew the compact with Gov. (Kevin) Stitt, the compact comes to an end, Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said. If the compact comes to an end, the very framework which allows us to fund education and a great many other public investments comes to an end.

Thanks to a one-year extension, the Cherokee Nations current car tag compacts are currently set to lapse on Dec. 31. The tribe signed two agreements with the state in 2013  one for tags sold to tribal citizens who live in a county at least partially within the tribes reservation and one for tags sold to citizens who live in any other Oklahoma county.

Under Cherokee Nation statutes, the tribe allocates 38% of its car tag revenue directly to education. School districts and charter schools that are at least partially in a county that falls within the Cherokee Nation reservation receive money based on the number of Cherokee students enrolled, but administrators are allowed to use the money however they see fit.

For example, Tulsa Public Schools puts its donation entirely toward its Indian Education program, while Broken Arrow Public Schools used its 2023 contribution to hire additional security guards.

School districts and charter schools in Tulsa County received a combined $1.72 million Tuesday, more than any other county within the tribes reservation. Rogers County schools received the third largest combined total, with $843,608.85 distributed among those districts.

Over the last two decades, the tribe has donated $92 million in car tag revenue to public education.

Addressing school leaders and tribal officials at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino as part of the Cherokee Nations Public School Appreciation Day, Hoskin cited the tribes continued donations to public education and urged attendees to reach out to their elected officials in support of renewing the compacts as they are currently worded.

You know the old saying, If it aint broke, why fix it? Hoskin said, noting that the tribe is prepared to seek an additional extension from the state Legislature if necessary. Theres nothing to fix on this compact. The only thing we need to do in this state is to continue to do what works, and this compact works.

Under its current compacts, the Cherokee Nations vehicle tags are all sold through the tribes Tax Commission, which employs about 80 people. The fee rates are separate for tags sold to tribal citizens who live in a county at least partially within the Cherokee Reservation versus those who live elsewhere in Oklahoma.

In an email, Stitt spokeswoman Abegail Cave said the Governors Office is continuing to negotiate in good faith with the Cherokee Nation and pointed to the Chickasaw and Choctaw compacts as the better deal for both the state and those tribes.

The Chickasaw and Choctaw compacts provide for their vehicle tags to be sold at state-operated tag agencies at the same price as a standard state-issued tag, with their citizens receiving a 20% rebate through the tribe. Both were initially signed under Gov. Mary Fallins administration after the Cherokee Nations agreements were reached in 2013.

We are continuing to negotiate in good faith with the Cherokee Nation and trust the same courtesy is being reciprocated, Cave wrote. The Chickasaw and Choctaw tag compacts were negotiated and entered into by the Fallin administration after the Cherokee compact had been agreed to and were seen as the better deal for both the state and the tribes. They provide complete transparency, and I think youd be hard pressed to argue that schools in that part of the state are worse off because of the terms of the compact.

Hoskin said Tuesday that while he respects the Chickasaw and Choctaw compacts, their structure does not suit his tribe. If the compacts are not renewed, the Cherokee Nation would exercise its sovereignty and continue to issue car tags, but only to tribal citizens who live within the Cherokee reservation, he said.

In the Tulsa area, that would exclude Cherokee citizens who live south of Admiral Boulevard, as well as those who live in Jenks, Bixby, Broken Arrow and other southern suburbs.

If theres no compact, we recognize that our authority then is contracted to our reservation, he said. Thats not good for Cherokees that live outside of the Cherokee Nation.



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Andrea Eger Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Andrea Eger 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

OKLAHOMA CITY  Epic Charter Schools top finance official testified Tuesday that when she was hired in early 2021, she immediately raised red flags that the school might have been overpaying the private company of Epics co-founders for student learning needs by $8 million and improperly bearing the administrative costs of an Epic-affiliated charter school in California with Oklahoma taxpayer-funded school employees.

During the second day of the preliminary hearing in the massive racketeering and embezzlement case against Epic Charter Schools co-founders David Chaney, 44, and Ben Harris, 48, and longtime CFO Josh Brock, 42, Epics deputy superintendent for finance said the school was left holding the bag for $14 million with its students and parents after Epics school board cut all ties with the trio in the spring of 2021.

There has been no money returned to the school, Jeanise Wynn told prosecutors about Epics Student Learning Fund, which had been taken into the private bank account of Harris and Chaneys school management company, Epic Youth Services.

The information I received related to carryover liability  $14 million in liability parents had on accounts  that was the carryover liability of June 2021. The students and parents were allowed to spend their money or carry it over to the next year when it was under EYS management. If they had a $4,000 balance credit in their Learning Fund account, we honored that $4,000 even though we did not receive that $4,000 back from EYS.

Two other witnesses on Tuesday testified to the use of non-school credit cards to pay for Epic Charter Schools students learning needs, as well as to allowed uses of state funding allocations to public schools for textbooks.

Chaney, Harris and Brock were arrested and charged in June 2022 in Oklahoma County District Court under the Oklahoma Racketeer-Influenced and Corrupt Organizations, or RICO, Act.

The criminal case, now being prosecuted by the Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office, alleges 15 counts, including embezzlement, money laundering, computer crimes and conspiracy to defraud the state.

Wynns testimony on Tuesday afternoon offered new insights into what precipitated Epics governing boards severing all ties with Chaney and Harris Epic Youth Services in May 2021.

Wynn recalled being personally recruited to Epic by Harris, leaving Edmond Public Schools, where she worked the previous eight years. She described the move as a leap of faith because Epic was not well thought of for having drawn away so many students  and the financial resources that followed them  from brick-and-mortar traditional public schools during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She arrived at Epic in February 2021 but said that by late March of that year, she began to be concerned about the amount of taxpayer dollars being paid to Epic Youth Services, the private company of Harris and Chaney with which the schools governing board contracted to manage the school.

Wynn said she immediately discussed with Epic Superintendent Bart Banfield her personal belief that more public monies were being paid to EYS for Epic Students Learning Fund than should have been allocated  to the tune of $8 million  and the fact that she was concerned that EYS was taking 10% of every dollar of taxpayer revenue coming to the school for educating public school students as a management fee.

She said she was surprised to learn that all the employees managing Student Learning Fund requests for Epic students in Oklahoma and California were Oklahoma taxpayer-funded school employees, when EYS had an agreement to manage the Oklahoma Epic schools Student Learning Fund.

I expected them to be on the payroll for EYS, Wynn said.

As for EYS taking a 10% cut of every dollar of taxpayer revenues coming into the school through a management fee, 10% felt very high to me. That was my opinion, coming in new, not knowing how things were being handled, Wynn said. That year, it was $40 million or so  $45 million or something like that.

Additionally, she said she was surprised to learn that EYS, using an every student count method, was invoicing the charter school for the Learning Fund for 8,000 more students than the average daily membership count of students used to calculate state aid for public schools, including Epic, but not accounting for where the money was being spent or how much was carried over in the account from one year to the next.

That Learning Fund was designed to set aside $1,000 in public funds to cover the cost of every students online curriculum, plus a laptop and mobile internet hotspot for those who needed them, and then to allow parents and students a say in spending the balance on educational materials or extracurricular activities.

The Learning Fund was not part of the compensation section of the agreement (between the school board and Epic Youth Services), and it was a set-aside for students, so I believed it was only being used for the benefit of students, Wynn said. I had access to the student order information at that time, but I didnt have access to how the bills were paid or how much money was in the account at that time.  Josh Brock was creating invoices on behalf of EYS, and he was involved in the payment process. He was approving them and then receiving the payment (for EYS).

Chaneys defense attorney has contended that much of the taxpayer monies Chaney, Harris and Brock are accused of misappropriating had actually become private funds once they were received into the bank account of Epic Youth Services.

Over the objections of defense attorneys for Harris and Chaney, Special Judge Jason Glidewell allowed Wynn to answer a prosecutors questions about something she heard Harris share with Epics school board during a closed-door executive session during March or April of 2021.

He informed those present that money from the Learning Fund had been transferred to Epic-California, she said, adding that she was concerned about that because thats not for the benefit of Epic Oklahoma students.

She later said: It was presented as a heads-up about a report that EYS was going to be giving to the school. There was discussion about some of the factors involved. There was an explanation, and there was discussion about that money being paid back.



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Epic Charter School: Tulsa World reporting and investigating since 2019 Day 4: Epic Charter Schools paid co-founder's personal credit card charges, forensic auditor testifies Day 3: Epic Charter Schools co-founders never reported millions on tax returns, auditor testifies Day 2: Epic Charter Schools finance official testifies about payment concerns Day 1: Use of 'legal eagles' shows no criminal intent, defense argues in Epic Charter Schools preliminary hearing Evidence, testimony by CFO expected at weeklong preliminary hearing for Epic founders Former Epic CFO waives preliminary hearing; attorney says plea deal in works Epic co-founders agree to preserve bank account assets prosecutors want forfeited For first time in many years, state board suspends teacher certificates for breaking contracts Oklahoma teacher bonus program maxed out at 578 recruits, including 117 from other states Oklahoma AG worries Epic Charter Schools founders still have taxpayer money Co-founders, CFO facing additional charges Epic founders get preliminary hearing date in criminal case Board chairman who oversaw overhaul of Epic leaving Epic governing board issues apology, payment of Anti-SLAPP judgment Former state auditor and GOP chairman says Epic scandal facilitated by Republicans 'gutting' Ethics Commission Epic Charter Schools co-founders, former CFO charged in elaborate scheme to defraud and embezzle from taxpayers State finds major issues with Epics recent student attendance, administrative bonuses Independent annual audit critical of Epic co-founders' final year of school management Epic could consider name change as consolidation advances Board rejects application for new online school Yet another lawsuit filed in Epic Charter Schools' messy divorce from co-founders Oklahoma House passes virtual charter school reforms Epic board moves to consolidate administration to save millions Epic Charter Schools to end appeal of $500k legal judgment for former state senator Inside the newsroom: Jason Collington talks about the latest in Epic Charter Schools investigative audit with Andrea Eger Audit makes some lawmakers question voucher push Epic Charter Schools leaders reveal intention to consolidate its two schools Epic Charter Schools investigative audit makes some lawmakers question voucher push Attorney general sends Epic Charter Schools case back to Oklahoma County DA State auditor to lawmakers: Epic Charter Schools mismanagement is largest abuse of taxpayer funds 'in the history of this state' Epic among 3 virtual charters losing $58.9 million after 'significant decline' in students Epic Charter Schools: 'Very serious crimes' being investigated by multiple agencies, with new school leaders assisting State to Epic Charter Schools: $9.1 million is correct amount owed back for excessive admin costs Epic responds to new allegations of wrongdoing Resigned Epic board member answers questions about new 'whistleblower' allegations against school Epics Charter Schools board vice chair resigns, asks for investigation into misconduct State Department of Ed, school sponsors investigating new Epic allegations Epic to cut staff after losing 60% of new students driven there during pandemic, Oklahoma's largest online school says State auditor says Epic criminal investigation 'far from over,' predicts charges Epic founders 'gaslit a lot of people, and it's time to stop,' new chairman says of charter school financials Epic Charter Schools audit prompts investigative audit at OK Department of Education Oklahoma virtual school board members resign unexpectedly Epic gets three more months to tackle issue of sharing of employees between two separate schools with only one governing board Epic settlement monitor says Learning Fund billing didn't match enrollment Epic's overhauled governing board inks licensing agreement Epic Charter Schools approves $335.5 million budget Epic now wants in on spending records State Auditor won in court State auditor wins access to Epic's spending records Epic governing board severs all ties with co-founders' for-profit firm and California school Charter school reforms related to Epic investigation sail through Oklahoma House Oklahoma virtual charter school board could reinstate member House leadership moving forward with multicounty grand jury recommendations House leadership taking up multicounty grand jury recommendations Multicounty grand jury blasts use of private accounts for taxpayer money School Board ends Epic termination proceedings as part of deal Epic Charter Schools board accepts final list of demands Board gives Epic's governing board final list of demands State virtual school board member sues Epic Charter Schools slapped with new $10.5 million penalty Epic Charter Schools board makes 11th-hour attempt to settle termination proceedings Epic board votes to change secret Learning Fund Legislation to negate board decision would send medical marijuana money to some charter schools Statewide virtual school board sets termination proceedings House to get legislation addressing issues raised by charter schools decision TPS demands state board rescind vote on state funding lawsuit Majority of state ed board votes to settle years-old charter schools lawsuit State board's deadline for $11.2 million repayment by Epic passes with no payment State Senate, House hear no bills related to Epic Charter Schools audit findings Epic co-founder's audit recommendations make it into legislation Termination proceedings against Epic Charter Schools delayed once more $11.2 million repayment from Epic Charter Schools to state is delayed; public records lawsuit stalls Epic Charter Schools adding human, financial resources to address deficiencies ID'd by state auditor School funding adjusted: Tulsa County districts down $31 million; Epic gains $156 million School finance chiefs call on state leaders to intervene before hike in funding to Epic Charter Schools Two board members barred from all Epic Charter Schools matters over conflict-of-interest concerns Epic Charter Schools' board amends contract with for-profit management company, directs accounting practice changes Governor removes board president leading inquiries into Epic Epic Charter Schools gets a pass on accreditation downgrade Lawmakers call for audit of State Department of Education Tulsa lawmaker vows systemic overhaul Epic Charter Schools governing boards respond to recent actions by two state education boards Epic Charter Schools board member resigns amid state audit fallout Education policy leaders from state Senate, House reflect on Epic Charter Schools audit findings Statewide Virtual Charter School Board member is relative of Epic co-founder Statewide Virtual Charter School Board votes to begin contract termination process against Epic Charter Schools State education board demands $11.2 million back from Epic Charter Schools over state audit findings Lawmakers announce joint hearing on Epic Charter Schools audit Oklahoma AG's Office takes reins in Epic Charter Schools investigation State education board calls special meeting on Epic Charter Schools audit Superintendent Hofmeister responds to accountability failures cited in state audit of Epic Charter Schools 'Epic owes Oklahoma $8.9 million': Improper transfers, chronic misreporting found by state auditor's investigation Officials call Epic audit findings 'concerning,' 'deeply disturbing,' 'troubling' Key findings and conclusions from the Oct. 1, 2020, report Key findings and conclusions from the Oct. 1, 2020, report Key findings and conclusions from the Oct. 1, 2020, report Key findings and conclusions from the Oct. 1, 2020, report Key findings and conclusions from the Oct. 1, 2020, report Epic Charter Schools targets state senator again in pre-election email to parents Epic Charter Schools founders and backers keep up campaign influence spending amid state investigations Then-State senator sued by Epic Charter Schools awarded legal fees plus $500,000 in sanctions Enrollment already up 77% across Oklahoma's six virtual charter schools amid COVID-19 pandemic Epic co-founder claims innocence in new video address amid back-to-school student recruiting drive Epic becomes Oklahoma's largest school district as pandemic pushes virtual enrollment Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board wants to weigh in on court case involving Epic State Chamber says no conflicts of interest in legal filing despite Epic Charter Schools' membership, school founder on Chamber board of directors Epic Charter Schools' for-profit management firm refuses to release documents to investigators, Oklahoma attorney general says 'Our kids have become a piggy bank': Epic Charter Schools shields $50M in taxpayer funds from public scrutiny Lawmakers accuse Epic of intimidation attempt with defamation lawsuit against state senator Epic Charter Schools sues state senator who questioned student attendance and funding, accusing him of slander Epic Charter Schools promoting itself with multimillion-dollar advertising campaign, plus $9,000 per month shopping mall playground sponsorships OSBI investigating new allegations of forgery by Epic Charter Schools' co-founder and CFO, willful neglect by board members How does Epic Charter Schools stack up academically? Check out student proficiency test scores Epic Charter Schools' expansion into Texas in limbo amid new revelations about criminal investigation Tulsa lawmaker uses rarely invoked legal provision to attend closed-door meeting on Epic Charter Schools investigation, educators New records reveal Epic Charter Schools' sponsor was in touch with state auditor for months before scandal Governor requests state audit of Epic Charter Schools; school's sponsor already in touch with state auditor Records show FBI has also been looking into Epic Charter Schools, along with federal education investigators State superintendent reacts to Epic Charter Schools investigation; online school official claims innocence State senator raises new questions about Epic Charter Schools and oversight by Oklahoma State Department of Education Leadership change at Oklahoma's largest virtual charter school likely necessitated by new transparency, conflict of interest law State Senate passes new transparency reporting requirements for virtual charter schools; bill headed to Gov. Stitt next State education officials deny clearing Epic Charter Schools in investigation, despite school's new claims Epic Charter Schools, school reform and funding needs on the minds of Tulsa Republicans at Friday event with State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister New transparency reporting requirements for virtual charter schools advance to state Senate Parents, students pack Capitol to tell lawmakers about 'the array of reasons to choose Epic' 15 people with ties to Epic Charter donated $180,000 to 78 candidates for state office Epic Charter Schools under investigation by state, federal law enforcement agencies A study in contrasts: Most Tulsa County districts lose students while virtual numbers soar 496 Tulsa Public Schools students left for EPIC virtual school since August. TPS to lawmakers: Regulation is needed Skyrocketing student enrollment nets Epic Charter Schools nearly $39 million more in midyear adjustments to state funding for public schools Epic Charter Schools co-founder audit recommendations make it into legislation Check out our latest digital-only offer and subscribe now
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

New penalties for cutting or mixing fentanyl with other substances, or disguising it as other drugs, moved within a legislative step of the governors desk on Wednesday with House committee passage of Senate Bill 1280, by Sen. Darrell Weaver, R-Moore.

SB 1280 would create a felony punishable by seven years to life in prison for unlicensed manufacture of substances containing the potent synthetic opioid. Rep. Robert Manger, R-Midwest City, the bills House sponsor, told the House Criminal Judiciary Committee the intention is to more appropriately address criminal liability by shifting it away from the street dealer and user up to the criminals creating this poison.

Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than natural opioids such as heroine and morphine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is relatively cheap and easy to manufacture, and its potency means it can be transported in small lots, thus making it more difficult to detect.

It is often mixed with other drugs or formed into pills resembling other, more expensive drugs, for illegal sale.

According to state data, 609 people died from fentanyl overdoses in 2022, up dramatically from 50 in 2019. Data from 2023 are not yet available.

Mangers comment aside, SB 1280 would not lessen penalties for sales or possession of fentanyl. It would, however, insert specific language regarding fentanyl into statutes dealing with the illegal manufacture of drugs.

Im concerned about the kid who has a Lortab in his pocket going to prison for seven years, said Rep. Judd Strom, R-Copan, referring to a powerful pain medication.

Thats not what this is, said Manger. Its about manufacture.

Also approved in the same committee was SB 1557, by Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, which would facilitate the introduction of previous abuse into cases involving domestic violence.

Rep. Anthony Moore, R-Clinton, the House sponsor, said the intention is to give victims a few days to get to a place of safety before reporting abuse.

Both bills have passed the Senate and are available to be heard by the full House. If adopted without amendment, they would then go Gov. Kevin Stitt.



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Every generation wants the next to have greater access to a world of opportunities, but that reality is much harder to come by for those who have disabilities.

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, with a focus on removing obstacles to community living for the more than 7 million Americans with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our country.

The Arc of Oklahoma is committed to promoting and protecting the rights of people with IDD and actively supporting their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes. Its a tall order that comes with growing expectations for people with IDD to have more opportunities to live, work and fully participate in their community, whether that is Tulsa or anywhere else.

With this modern mindset of inclusion, now more than ever, Oklahomans should expect people with IDD to be their neighbors, colleagues, classmates and friends. However, even though much has improved for Oklahomans with IDD, there are still many barriers in our state and beyond that stand in the way of making the world of opportunities available to this underserved population.

At The Arc, our work centers on the advocacy it takes to break down those barriers for Oklahomans with IDD. It is not that a world of opportunities does not exist for those we serve. People with disabilities live in the same world as everyone else; they just need some extra supports to fully access it. Those supports are what open up the possibilities.

In Oklahoma, our state legislators made a major investment in supports for Oklahomans with IDD by funding the waiting list for home and community-based services in 2022. Some of those services include personal care, transportation and employment supports, which are often provided by a direct care professional funded in part through Medicaid home- and community-based services.

By this summer, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services expects to end what had been a 13-year wait for many of the 5,100 Oklahomans with IDD requesting services and supports. The $32.5 million appropriation provides historic funding to pay for supports and services, but it has not unlocked the world of opportunities for Oklahomans with IDD like many expected it would. Thats because there is a long-running direct care professional workforce shortage in our state and across the nation.

Due to low wages, lack of benefits and limited career advancement, there are not enough direct care professionals to meet the demand for services in our state and most others. That reality has forced three-quarters of the nations service providers to decline new clients and more than half to cut services. The result is that Oklahomans with IDD who are newly approved for services cannot get them. In addition, those who have been receiving services experience disruptions and inconsistent quality of care.

The direct care professional workforce crisis significantly limits the number of Oklahomans with IDD who have access to the world of opportunities out there. Worse yet, the longer it continues the greater the threat of reversing decades of progress in community living for all Americans with IDD.

At The Arc, we are committed to working with legislators, providers and the IDD community to find a way forward and not lose sight of the world of opportunities that exists for Oklahomans with IDD with the right supports and services.

Lisa Kelly is CEO at The Arc of Oklahoma and a member of the Tulsa World Community Advisory Board.

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Editors note: Tam Le, a reader, recently tried the hairdressing services at a distinctive barbershop in Hanoi and recounted the memorable experience with Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper.

New customers often enter this barbershop and express their desired hairstyle, only to discover that the shop owner and his wife communicate solely through text on their phones and pointing at posters on the wall.

Despite this unique communication method, all are drawn back to the shop after the first try.

Wordless services in harmony

One day, I urgently needed to wash my hair, so I decided to visit Tuan Hang barbershop on Tay Son Street in Dong Da District, Hanoi.

Upon entering, the shop owner greeted me with a warm smile and gestured for me to read the introduction on an A4 paper displayed on the wall.

The introduction began with, I am a highly skilled, experienced hearing-impaired barber. Please assist me in understanding how to communicate effectively to achieve the hairstyle you desire.

As a natural reflex, I covered my mouth with my hand to maintain silence.

I then noticed several signs, ranging from basic to detailed, strategically placed where guests could easily see them.

One read, To ensure a beautiful, efficient, and convenient haircut, we kindly ask customers not to engage in private phone conversations or excessive head movements. If an urgent matter arises, please pause momentarily to address it. Thank you sincerely!

Throughout the process of shampooing, haircutting, and nail care, the salon owner communicates via text messages, ensuring mutual understanding and customer satisfaction.

During my hair wash, Hang would occasionally text me questions like, Is the water temperature comfortable? or Would you prefer a vigorous or gentle scalp massage?

Moreover, she adeptly employs sign language, using gentle touches on the shoulder to signal, and her warm smile and expressive eyes convey willing service.

Tuan and Hang launched their own shop last October, with Tuan specializing in mens haircuts while Hang focuses on nail care and hair washing.

They rented the shop space for VND6 million (US$242) a month, entering into competition with other nearby establishments.

However, what sets the service experience at Tuan and Hangs apart is the ambiance of quietude coupled with an unwavering commitment to politeness, kindness, and attention to detail.

They meticulously wash hair, providing thorough massages to the head and shoulders to ensure customers feel comfortable.

Their apparent flaw might just be the competitive edge that Tuan and Hang have developed.

Hang (L) and Tuan communicate in silence with each other. Photo: Tam Le / Tuoi Tre

The couples harmony is remarkable, as the Vietnamese saying goes, Compatible husband and wife can effortlessly turn the East Vietnam Sea shallow.

Their sole communication method through gestures does not prevent them from exhibiting consistent kindness and affection.

Tuan assists his wife with hair washing while she is occupied with nail work or allows her to rest when customers are scarce.

Each glance and touch serves as a tender and loving form of communication.

Hang translates the words for her husband through sign language since Tuan is not proficient in writing.

Her eyes gleamed with warmth, and her smile radiated joy.

Nature seemed to bless this young couple with endearing qualities, allowing them to embark on lifes journey hand in hand.

Tragedy and love

After delving deeper into their story by exchanging text messages, I discovered that both Tuan and Hang have been hearing impaired since childhood.

As they matured, they independently mastered their craft, crossed paths, and eventually married, finding contentment in their professions and in raising their three-year-old daughter, who is not hearing impaired.

Vu Tuan, born in 1992 in Thuong Tin District, Hanoi, tragically lost his hearing permanently at the age of four due to a febrile seizure.

Thu Hang, born in 1996 in Quang Trung Ward, Dong Da District, faced a similar misfortune, losing both her hearing and speaking abilities at birth.

She is the youngest of three siblings in a family where all others have no disabilities, making her the sole member of the family facing this challenge.

On that day, my child had a high fever, so I rushed him to the communal clinic, Tuans mother, 55-year-old Bui Thi Han, recalled.

A nurse assured me that she would prescribe safe medications with minimal risks.

Concerned for my childs well-being, I consented without hesitation.

Upon returning home a few weeks later, I noticed my child exhibiting signs of deafness.

I was in the countryside at the time, lacking awareness, and did not think of seeking treatment at a larger hospital.

After Tuan, Han has a daughter, who is healthy and unaffected.

Speaking about her son, Han takes pride in his gentle nature and eagerness to learn from a young age.

Unfortunately, Tuan completed only fourth-grade education as the local school lacked teachers who could teach sign language, forcing him to drop out of school.

As he grew older, he pursued carpentry schooling and later secured employment at a factory.

Another pivotal moment in Tuans life occurred when he found love.

Tuan decided to leave his carpentry job and pursue hairdressing to impress Hang, whom he met through an online friend group, while she was working as a hairdresser and nail artist.

On the day Tuan met Hangs parents, he faced rejection.

Hangs family closely monitored their outings, with her father observing from a distance, fearing she might be emotionally deceived.

Undeterred, Tuan sought the assistance of his articulate uncle to represent him and arrange a meeting with Hangs family, inviting them to his hometown.

Both families met and celebrated the couples love joyfully, culminating in renewed confidence and their wedding in 2018.

Tuan plays with his child. Photo: Tam Le / Tuoi Tre

After undergoing vocational training and gaining experience working with others, Hang and Tuan made the decision to open their own shop in order to transform their lives.

Now, like any other couple, they are managing a small family and striving to build a new life, despite the inevitable challenges ahead.

Friends with shared entrepreneurial spirit

Upon revisiting the couples hair salon, I coincidentally encountered a gathering of their friends who were paying a visit.

This group, composed of five friends, all hail from various provinces and cities, encompassing both men and women.

Despite facing challenges in speech and writing due to their hearing impairment, the heartfelt reason behind their meeting was truly touching.

Each member exhibited enthusiasm as they discussed business ventures and aspirations.

Among them, Ngo Duc Trung and his wife run a coffee shop in Binh Giang District, Hai Duong Province, northern Vietnam.

Trung hails from north-central Thanh Hoa Province. Due to his fathers exposure to Agent Orange, Trung lost his hearing and suffered a deformity in his left hand.

Trungs wife also experiences deafness, and together, the couple has leased a spacious cafe, serving both as a retail space and a residence.

He met Tuan and Hang in a communication skills class for hearing-impaired individuals.

Today, he, his wife, and their students pay a visit to Tuan and Hangs shop.

His wife is currently instructing two students in making salt coffee, one from northern Bac Ninh Province and the other from northern Tuyen Quang Province.

Their group also includes a friend from northern Phu Tho Province, who sells salted coffee on the sidewalks of Hanoi.

Trung said that everyone in the group is engaged in at least one job to sustain themselves, from operating hair salons, cooking, to selling salt coffee.

Trung himself juggles multiple occupations, aside from vending coffee, he also operates a motorcycle taxi and delivers goods.

Besides their barbershop, Tuan and Hang also sell Siamese coconuts, which occasionally sell out.

Making a living solely from one job is challenging, Trung said.

I do whatever tasks I am capable of. So do these guys.

Our shared obstacle is our inability to hear or speak, so when one avenue is closed, we strive to explore other opportunities.

Gatherings like this serve to inspire and support this group of friends entrepreneurial endeavors.

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BALTIMORE -- Search divers were expected to return near dawn on Wednesday to the waters surrounding the twisted ruins of a bridge knocked down in Baltimore Harbor by a faltering cargo ship, leaving six workers missing and presumed dead.

The disaster also forced the indefinite closure of the Port of Baltimore, one of the busiest on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard, and created a traffic quagmire for Baltimore and the surrounding region.

As the odds of their survival vanished, the search for the six workers was suspended on Tuesday evening, 18 hours after they were thrown from the fallen Francis Scott Key Bridge into the frigid waters at the mouth of the Patapsco River.

Maryland State Police and U.S. Coast Guard officials said diminished visibility and increasingly treacherous currents in the wreckage-strewn channel made continued search efforts on the river too risky to continue overnight.

A view of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, after the Dali cargo vessel crashed into it causing it to collapse, in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., March 26, 2024. Photo: Reuters

Aerial view of the Dali cargo vessel which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., March 26, 2024. Photo: Reuters

Starting at 6 a.m. (1000 GMT) on Wednesday, "we're hoping to put divers in the water and begin a more detailed search to do our very best to recover those six missing people," state police Colonel Roland Butler told reporters late on Tuesday.

"We do not believe that we're going to find any of these individuals alive," Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said at the briefing.

Rescuers pulled two other workers from the water alive on Tuesday, and one of them was hospitalized. The six presumed to have perished included workers from Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador, according to the Mexican Consulate in Washington.

Officials said all eight were part of a work crew repairing potholes on Key Bridge's road surface when the Singapore-flagged container vessel Dali, leaving Baltimore bound for Sri Lanka, plowed into a support pylon of the bridge at about 1:30 a.m. (0530 GMT).

A trestled section of the 1.6-mile (2.6 km) span almost immediately crumpled into the icy water, sending vehicles and workers into the river.

The 948-foot (289 m) ship had reported a loss of propulsion shortly before impact and dropped anchor to slow the vessel, giving transportation authorities time to halt traffic on the bridge before the crash. That move likely prevented a higher death toll, authorities said.

It was unclear whether authorities also tried to alert the work crew ahead of the impact.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said at a Tuesday news briefing the bridge was up to code with no known structural issues. There was no evidence of foul play, officials said.

A drone view of the Dali cargo vessel, which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing it to collapse, in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., March 26, 2024, in this still image taken from a handout video. Photo: Reuters

Ship's safety record

The Balitmore wreck drew attention to the vessel's safety record. The same ship was involved in an incident in the port of Antwerp, Belgium, in 2016, hitting a quay as it tried to exit the North Sea container terminal.

An inspection in 2023 carried out in Chile found "propulsion and auxiliary machinery" deficiencies, according to data on the public Equasis website, which provides information on ships.

But Singapore's Maritime and Port Authority said in a statement that the vessel passed two separate foreign-port inspections in June and September 2023. It said a faulty fuel pressure gauge was rectified before the vessel departed the port following its June 2023 inspection.

Video footage on social media showed the vessel slamming into the Key Bridge in darkness, the headlights of vehicles visible on the span as it crashed into the water and the ship caught fire.

All 22 crew members on the ship, owned by Grace Ocean Pte Ltd, were accounted for, its management company, Synergy Marine Pte Ltd, reported.

A view of the Dali cargo vessel which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing it to collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., March 26, 2024. Photo: Reuters

Aerial view of the Dali cargo vessel which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., March 26, 2024. Photo: Reuters

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said closure of the port would have a "major and protracted impact to supply chains." The Port of Baltimore handles more automobile freight than any other U.S. port - more than 750,000 vehicles in 2022, according to port data, as well as container and bulk cargo ranging from sugar to coal.

Still, economists and logistics experts said they doubted the port closure would unleash a major U.S. supply chain crisis or major spike in the price of goods, due to ample capacity at rival shipping hubs along the Eastern Seaboard.

Loss of the bridge also snarled roadways across Baltimore, forcing motorists onto two other congested harbor crossings and raising the specter of nightmarish daily commutes and regional traffic detours for months or even years to come.

The bridge, named for the author of the Star-Spangled Banner, carries some 31,000 vehicles across the harbor daily and serves as the main route for motorists between New York and Washington seeking to avoid downtown Baltimore. It opened in 1977.

President Joe Biden promised on Tuesday to visit Baltimore, 40 miles (64 km) away, as soon as possible and said he wanted the federal government to pay to rebuild the bridge.

A satellite image shows a closer view of the Dali container ship and a collpased Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., March 26, 2024. Photo: Reuters

National Transportation Safety Board chair Jennifer Homendy said a team of 24 agency personnel were on the scene to investigate the accident. She said Singapore safety personnel would arrive in Baltimore on Wednesday.

Tuesday's disaster may be the worst U.S. bridge collapse since 2007, when the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis plunged into the Mississippi River, killing 13 people.
BANGKOK, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Thailand exported 2.5 million tons of rice in the first quarter of 2024, an increase of about 500,000 tons from a year earlier, government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said on Wednesday.

The Southeast Asian country's rice shipments may reach 8 million tons in 2024, above the target of 7.5 million tons, bolstered by government efforts to promote Thai rice in overseas markets, Chai said in a statement.

"The Thai rice export has a bright future," he said, adding that swift trade dealings, on-time delivery and the quality of the grain are contributing to the growth.

The Ministry of Commerce said last month it expected the kingdom's rice exports to decline by 14.38 percent to 7.5 million tons this year, dragged down by lower production and increased competition. 
General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit the Southeast Asian country during a phone talk on Tuesday.

The Russian president accepted the invitation, saying that the two sides would arrange a suitable time for the visit.

During the phone talk, Party General Secretary Trong extended his deepest condolences to Putin, the Russian people, and the families of the victims of the terrorist attack near Moscow on March 22, according to a statement of the Party Central Committee's Commission for External Relations.

The attack left at least 137 people dead and 182 injured.

The Vietnamese leader also congratulated Putin on his re-election as president of Russia for the 2024-30 tenure with a record number of votes in the country's modern history, saying that this reflected the trust and support of the Russian people for President Putin's leadership.

He added that Vietnam appreciates Russias significant support, affirming that the comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia is one of the top priorities in Vietnams foreign policy.

President Putin conveyed his gratitude to Party General Secretary Trong for his congratulations, and he also thanked the Vietnamese Party, state, and people for their sympathy toward the losses suffered by the Russian people in the terrorist attack.

The Russian leader asserted that Vietnam is always a reliable friend and partner of Russia and expressed his delight at the positive progress in the bilateral relations between the two countries across all spheres.

The two sides also reached a consensus on some orientations to foster cooperation in security-national defense, economy-trade, culture, and tourism in the coming time.

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Read what is in the news in Vietnam today:

Politics

-- General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit the Southeast Asian country during a phone talk on Tuesday.

Society

-- The Ministry of Transport has put forth a proposal to construct a state-of-the-art north-south high-speed railway capable of reaching a maximum speed of 350 km/h.

-- The number of marriages between South Koreans and foreign spouses rose more than 18 percent in 2023, as those between Vietnamese grooms and naturalized South Korean brides gained sharply, according to Yonhap News Agency.

-- Doctors at Ca Mau General Hospital successfully removed a dildo more than 20cm long from the rectum of a 23-year-old local man, the hospitals deputy director said on Tuesday.

Business

-- Eight Vietnamese enterprises are showcasing their food and beverage products at the International Food and Drink Expo 2024 in London, the UK from Monday to Wednesday, according to the Vietnam News Agency.

-- StarLux Airlines of Taiwan will begin operating the first flight from Taipei to Phu Quoc International Airport on Phu Quoc Island City off Kien Giang Province, southern Vietnam from July 1, to mark the launch of a new route between the two destinations, according to national radio station Voice of Vietnam.

Lifestyle

-- The 20th Ho Chi Minh City tourism festival is scheduled to take place from April 4 to 7 at 23/9 Park in District 1 to display hundreds of tourism products from across the country.

World News

-- Six workers were missing and presumed dead from a bridge that collapsed in Baltimore Harbor early on Tuesday when a massive cargo ship crippled by a power loss rammed into the structure, forcing closure of one of the busiest ports on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard, Reuters reported.

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Egroup Education Group JSC, the owner of the Apax Leaders English language center chain, has announced that it would cease refunding prepaid tuition fees to parents pending an investigation into its board chairman and general director Nguyen Ngoc Thuy, alias Shark Thuy, who was arrested over fraud allegations.

In its press release on Tuesday, Egroup said that Thuy, also chairman and general director of Egame Investment and Distribution JSC, had authorized Nguyen Thi Dung, a member of the leadership of Egroup and Egame, to manage the two firms.

Thuy had also transferred his entire stakes and shareholder rights in the two businesses to Dung.

Egroup said it had quickly drawn up plans to ensure the groups business.

It will give priority to the stable operations of the units under its umbrella, including Apax Leaders, kindergarten chain STEAMe Garten, and critical and creative thinking training system CMS Edu, to ensure the benefits of learners, customers, partners, and shareholders.

Lieutenant General To An Xo, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Security, announced on Tuesday that investigators of the ministry detained Thuy on Monday evening.

Shark Thuy previously made his name on the investment reality show Shark Tank Vietnam.

P., a parent in Ho Chi Minh City whose two children used to learn at Apax Leaders, said he and many other parents felt happy as relevant agencies have investigated the case after they demanded tuition refunds and cried for help for over a year.

He added that Apax Leaders owes him VND115 million (US$4,611) in prepaid tuition refunds.

Earlier, the chain was committed to giving back to him 20 percent of the amount in a first installment on October 9, 2023.

The following four 20-percent installments were scheduled for November 20 and December 20 last year and March 20 and April 20 this year.

However, P. had yet to receive the refunds, he noted, adding that many parents were keeping a close watch on the case and were worried if they would get their money back.

T., another parent in Ho Chi Minh City, seemed luckier than P. as she was refunded VND4.8 million ($192.50), or five percent of the amount that Apax Leaders has to repay to her. The chain currently owes her VND93 million ($3,722).

I know that its hard to take money back from Shark Thuy, but I hope I can [take it back]. For many families, tens of millions of Vietnamese dong is a big amount.

I know [Apax Leaders] owes many parents over VND200 million [$8,019], even VND300 million [$12,045] each, T said.

According to N., whose child used to be a learner at Apax Leaders, he paid some VND105 million ($4,200) in early 2022 for his childs 12-month course at an Apax Leaders center.

However, the center was shut down two months later, explaining that it had to restructure its space. The center later apologized to him, saying that it closed due to a shortage of teachers.

Although Apax Leaders has repeatedly promised to refund the tuition, their plans remain on paper. N. has yet to obtain his refunds.

It's not an issue if I cannot reclaim the money, but the case should be handled rigorously as a precedent, N. shared.

Shark Thuy (R) at a meeting with parents in Ho Chi Minh City in 2023. Photo: Trong Nhan / Tuoi Tre

Last year, many people accused Shark Thuy of misappropriating trillions of Vietnamese dong.

Lots of parents complained that the chain received tuition fees for long-term courses but then a host of APAX Leaders centers were closed without advanced notice or switched to online courses.

Many parents in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang City, and Dak Lak Province in the Central Highlands said that the centers also failed to provide educational services of good quality as they previously guaranteed, so the parents demanded tuition refunds.

According to the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Education and Training, the Apax Leaders English language center systems unpaid tuition refunds to parents in Ho Chi Minh City total around VND93.8 billion ($3.8 million).

It also owes teachers and employees VND11.5 billion ($468,788) and VND9 billion ($367,279) for space rental as of February 2023.

The chain is liable for VND31 billion ($1.3 million) in health and social insurance premiums for Vietnamese laborers and VND1.3 billion ($53,051) for foreigners, the municipal social insurance agency reported.

The chain, in a report sent to the department on February 26, proposed extending the closure of two centers until June this year, offering online classes to students of these two centers, shutting down 26 venues, and relocating 13 others.

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Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee Phan Van Mai has urged relevant units to expedite the improvement of service quality and the overall image at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, with the aim of boosting tourism.

Mai asked the Tan Son Nhat airport operator to work with the Vietnam Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security to enhance the operation efficiency at immigration gates.

The relevant units were tasked with employing technology, priority services, and priority lanes to ease congestion and shorten the time needed for immigration procedures.

The Southern Airports Authority and Tan Son Nhat International Airport should closely cooperate to arrange lanes and regulate baggage carousels in a scientific and reasonable manner.

The municipal chairman also expected to enrich green coverage at the airport.

The relevant bodies were also told to close some stalls selling unnecessary goods to make room for essential services, apart from creating charming and modern spaces to make passengers more comfortable and satisfied.

Chairman Mai suggested that the Southern Airports Authority and the Vietnam Immigration Department work together with relevant agencies and units to manage the increase in night flights at the airport.

The municipal Department of Transport is responsible for improving traffic flow in the airport vicinity, effectively addressing congestion issues at the airport entrance, and ensuring overall traffic safety.

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A police officer in Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam has been suspended from work, pending an investigation into the death of a man who collapsed during police questioning and later passed away in the hospital last week.

The officer is Captain Thai Thanh Thuong, deputy head of a sub-division in charge of investigating social order-related crimes in Long Thanh District, the provincial police department said on Wednesday.

On Friday last week, Vu Minh Duc, a 31-year-old resident in Long Thanh, was summoned to the districts police agency for questioning, as he was previously accused of disturbing public order.

Duc and his friend then came to the police agency where he was questioned by investigator Luu Quang Trung.

By 1:24 pm the same day, Duc collapsed and was rushed to a nearby hospital by several officers, including Trung and his colleague Nguyen Truong Minh.

Duc was subsequently transferred to Cho Ray Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, where he was pronounced dead at 11:15 pm the same day.

Meanwhile, Captain Thuong informed Ducs wife of his collapse at around 4:00 pm the same day.

Police in Dong Nai and Ho Chi Minh City, in collaboration with the National Institute of Forensic Medicine, were working to determine the root cause of Ducs death.

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A new train route called the Central Heritage Connection, linking Hue City in Thua Thien-Hue Province with nearby Da Nang City in central Vietnam, commenced operations on Tuesday.

The introduction of the route is part of the joint efforts by the two localities to bolster their connectivity and boost tourism.

It represents a novel offering combining transportation and tourism services, providing passengers with fresh and captivating experiences in history, culture, and heritage.

The train consists of 10 carriages, equipped with air conditioners and soft seats placed next to windows.

This arrangement allows passengers to enjoy the picturesque scenery along their trip between Hue and Da Nang, renowned as one of the most beautiful railway routes in Vietnam.

Artists engage in a Hue chamber music performance to please visitors on a train journey from Hue City in Thua Thien-Hue Province to Da Nang City in central Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre

Two carriages offer Hue cuisine and traditional Hue music.

The cuisine carriage provides an array of Hue delicacies such as banh it (sticky rice dumplings), cha lua (Vietnamese pork sausage), and 'nem Hue' (Hue cured fermented pork), along with various beverage options for passengers to enjoy during their journey.

Adjacent to this carriage, a group of artists will entertain tourists with Hue chamber music, amidst a decor that pays homage to ancient royal traditions.

The train traverses Hai Van Pass in Da Nang, central Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre

The three-hour journey treats visitors to breathtaking sights, including Lang Co Bay, Hai Van Pass, and Tien Sa Beach.

The train makes a special stop at Lang Co Station, positioned halfway up Hai Van Pass, allowing passengers a 10-minute break to disembark and capture photos.

Ao dai designs are presented to visitors on a train journey from Hue City in Thua Thien-Hue Province to Da Nang City in central Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre

As per the schedule, train HD1 departs from Hue at 7:45 am and arrives at Da Nang Station at 10:35 am, while train HD3 leaves Hue at 2:25 pm and comes to Da Nang at 5:40 pm.

Trains HD2 and HD4 depart from Da Nang at 7:50 am and 3:00 pm, and arrive at Hue at 11:05 am and 5:45 pm, respectively.

The first passengers travel on the new Central Heritage Connection train route linking Hue City in Thua Thien-Hue Province with nearby Da Nang City in central Vietnam, March 26, 2024. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre

Passengers are offered discounted fares of VND150,000 (US$6) per person during the inaugural month.

In addition, travelers can opt for a monthly ticket priced at VND900,000 ($36) per person and individuals with meritorious service to the country can enjoy discounts ranging from 10 to 50 percent.

VIP waiting rooms at Da Nang and Hue Stations will offer local specialty food to passengers.

The train takes a stop at Lang Co Station in Thua Thien-Hue Province, central Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre

Hue delicacies are offered to visitors on a train journey linking Hue City in Thua Thien-Hue Province with nearby Da Nang City in central Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Linh / Tuoi Tre

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How difficult is it for writers and artists from diversity to stay authentic to their community in a Writers Room and is there pressure to give decisions the tick of approval?

Writer / Performer Nina Oyama (Latecomers, Youre Skitting Me, Squinters, Love Me, Tonightly, The Weekly) told Screen Forever last week sometimes it was a tug of war over keeping a job and remaining authentic.

She recalled one Writers Room where an Indigenous consultant resisted a creative choice being proposed for an Indigenous character.

The consultant was like, I just dont think that would be realistic and I think that will do more damage to the community. Im not happy to represent this. And then the next week, there was another Writers Room for the same show and that consultant had been replaced with a different consultant that said, .I guess that sort of makes sense,' she recalled.

As someone who had been there the whole time, it was an obvious replacement until they got the right model minority who said Yes.

I think that happens all the time. So its this thing where I want to get hired. So I do sort of want to say yes to this terrible idea?

Do I betray everything I believe in or do I work with this company again? Its not a nice compromise to be making.

Actor Bridie McKim (The Heights, Bump, Joe. vs Carole, Dive Club, Christmas Ransom), who has cerebral palsy, agreed people from diverse backgrounds often wrestled with such decisions.

We feel like we need to be palatable in order to stay in the room, in order to get the jobs, she said.

I feel like often I need to be the good little disabled girl and not be too tricky and not ask for too many adjustments. Because so often, if somebody discloses disability -because it can be non-visible- we lose a job. Were too hard. Its too expensive. And thats not the case.

Were not too expensive, adjustments dont cost that much money in the scheme of a wider budget. On average, they cost $500 bucks and that can be covered by the government. But again, it comes back to bias, it comes back to misconceptions and it really creates this environment where people are hired to be authentic, but then we feel like we cant be authentic.

Bridie McKim said a simple conversation early on could make the work environment much easier and deliver better results.

Ive had amazing experiences where production will sit down with me and be like, Okay, so youre disabled. Cool. What do you need to do a good job? It sounds so basic, but that simple conversation means the world. Im very lucky. I just need a chair to sit down between camera set-ups, you know filmmaking, theres a lot of waiting around. I need to conserve my energy so I need to sit down. And I need a railing attached to stairs or platforms that Im on. So its very basic, she explained.

But often Ive gone to other jobs where Ive had that exact conversation  and that information is lost. So my needs arent addressed and I dont do a good job.

Well, I still do a good job but I could do a better job and they could get the most money out of me and I could soar.
JAKARTA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia's President Joko Widodo on Wednesday inaugurated two rebuilt ports destroyed in powerful earthquakes and a tsunami in 2018 in Palu Bay of the Central Sulawesi province.

The ports were in ruins, but thanks to collective efforts, "today we are inaugurating the rehabilitation and reconstruction of port infrastructure in Palu Bay area, Wani Port, and Pantoloan Port," said Widodo.

With 14.7 million U.S. dollars in funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the ports were redeveloped to enhance port services as centers for logistics operations, boosting regional connections and local economic activities.

To compete globally, Widodo emphasized the necessity of bolstering the Southeast Asian country's port infrastructure. This highlights raising standards for management and service, utilizing technology to provide integrated logistics services, and establishing connections with other modes of transportation to maximize efficiency.

Ports play a significant role in promoting economic growth and facilitating mobility in island countries, Widodo added.

Widodo also expressed support for the idea of using roll-on/roll-off ships to facilitate the development of Nusantara, Indonesia's new capital, on the routes through Central Sulawesi and East Kalimantan. 
Several US court cases are shedding light on what researchers call a booming "disinformation for hire" industry (Stefani Reynolds)

A leading American university was sued Wednesday over a disinformation campaign allegedly financed by the United Arab Emirates, accused of seeding false narratives that linked academics to a radical group in the Middle East.

Farid Hafez, an Austrian political scientist, filed the $10 million lawsuit against George Washington University and Lorenzo Vidino, the director of its program on extremism.

It's the second such case in US courts this year that sheds light on what researchers call a lucrative "disinformation for hire" industry that peddles false information and influence operations on behalf of paying clients.

Foreign governments have long been accused of buying influence with large donations to US universities and think tanks. But Hafez's lawsuit takes it further, accusing a premier higher education institution of involvement in damaging reputations on behalf of a sovereign state.

The suit, which was filed in District Court in Washington, alleges that "GWU and Vidino engaged in a well cloaked conspiracy to defraud authorities, academia and the fourth estate," a term used to refer to the press, while "holding themselves out as independent and objective academic actors."

It also names as a defendant Alp Services, a Geneva-based private intelligence firm said to be on the UAE's payroll, accusing it of shadowy activities such as paying journalists and academics including Vidino to smear the Gulf state's enemies.

Vidino is accused of using his influential position at the university to target academics such as Hafez, businesses and charities by publishing false reports that linked them to the Muslim Brotherhood, designated as a terrorist organization by the UAE.

"Vidino was a hired gun selling and repackaging unverified rumor and gossip with the veneer of academic objectivity and scholarship, and with a mind toward ruining individuals and institutions," the suit said.

- 'Life was destroyed' -

Story continues

Hafez, a visiting professor at Williams College in Massachusetts, was detained in 2020 during Operation Luxor, a series of police raids against Austrian Muslims and businesses. No one who was implicated was convicted, and the operation was ruled unlawful in 2021.

Hafez said he was ensnared in the police action in Austria because of a report by Vidino.

A contractual agreement seen by AFP shows Vidino was paid to provide "leads of interest" to Alp, which the Swiss company used as part of its apparent disinformation operation on behalf of the UAE.

"My client's life was destroyed by the activities conducted against him by GWU, Vidino, and Alp Services," David Schwartz, Hafez's New York-based lawyer, told AFP.

He added his client was seeking $10 million in compensatory and punitive damages.

GWU did not respond to AFP's request for comment on the legal action or Vidino's current status with the university.

Vidino also did not comment.

"Even if the university and the program were unaware of actions undertaken in a private capacity, it may well be the case that the prestige of the affiliation added to the perceived credibility of any disinformation," Kristian Coates Ulrichsen, from Rice University's Baker Institute, told AFP.

Hafez's legal action follows a New Yorker magazine article last year that revealed how Alp - contracted by the UAE - smeared oil trader Hazim Nada, ultimately bankrupting his business, Lord Energy.

In January, Nada sued the UAE, its president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan -- often known as MBZ -- its national oil company ADNOC, Emirati officials, Alp, and Vidino in a Washington court.

The latest lawsuit spotlights the possible influence of foreign money in American universities, said Benjamin Freeman, director of the Democratizing Foreign Policy program at the Quincy Institute.

"US universities receiving millions and even hundreds of millions of dollars from authoritarian regimes are going to be a lot less likely to offer critical commentary of those regimes," Freeman told AFP.

adm-ac/sms
The boat-like structure uses the river current to funnel plastic into the barge's waiting jaws (Amaury PAUL)

Black flies exploded into the air as plastic waste fell from bamboo conveyor belts into skips on a solar-powered barge attempting to remove rubbish from the main river of Thailand's capital Bangkok.

The Ocean Cleanup project launched on the Chao Phraya river, its so-called "interceptor" -- a boat-like structure trailing a floating barrier -- using the river current to funnel plastic into the barge's waiting jaws.

The global non-profit, founded in 2013 by then-teenager Boyan Slat, aims to remove plastic pollution from the seas in part by preventing synthetic waste from ever reaching the oceans.

"The Chao Prayo is actually the largest, the single largest source, of plastic pollution for the Gulf of Thailand," Slat told AFP.

"The Gulf of Thailand is, of course, very important ecologically, but also economically for tourism and fisheries," he said.

"It's very important to us to tackle this plastic pollution here."

The Bangkok project, which has taken roughly two years to launch, is a research collaboration with businesses and local officials and Ocean Cleanup's fifth "interceptor" project researching pollution prevention in Southeast Asia.

Working with Chulalongkorn University, Ocean Cleanup mapped the Chao Phraya's currents to determine the best location for the interceptor -- a difficult task given the river's 500-metre (1,640-foot) width and its busy traffic lanes.

Positioned at the point where around 60 canals join the main river, ticking bamboo-slatted treadmills carry the collected waste into the barge, where it is deposited into bright blue skips and taken ashore to be disposed of by local authorities.

Penchom Saetang, from the environmental group EARTH Thailand, told AFP that while removing plastic from the river was important, getting chemical pollutants out of the water was also vital to restore the river.

"There are several causes (of chemical pollutants) and these include chemical use in the factories, as well as agricultural uses," she said.

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The Queen Mary returns to Glasgow in 2015 (Image: NQ/Colin Mearns)

The Princess Royal was gifted a plaque carved from the original teak deck of the most luxurious steamer ever to ply the waters around Glasgow as she arrived to celebrate its 90th anniversary.

Princess Anne met with supporters, volunteers and fundraisers who are helping to make the TS Queen Mary shipshape two years on from the announcement the iconic vessel will sail again.

Built at Dumbarton in 1933, TS Queen Mary carried 13,000 passengers each week and was known as Britains Finest Pleasure Steamer.

Her Royal Highness was in Glasgow to learn of the progress of the restoration and round off the ships year-long celebrations at the citys Hilton Hotel.

Restoration work has gathered pace in the two years since the Princess Royal made the announcement on a visit to the ship, currently berthed in Govan.

The Herald: Princess Anne speaks in Glasgow

Princess Anne speaks in Glasgow (Image: Martin Shields)

Fundraising currently stands at over 5 million  halfway to the anticipated cost of making her fit to resume her role and sail on the Firth of Clyde.

Originally, it was envisaged that TS Queen Mary would be permanently berthed at Pacific Quay at Glasgow Science Centre and have a heritage and maritime training focus drawing people to the location and this is still part of the plan.

The charity Friends of TS Queen Mary  tasked with the restoration - says it has been overwhelmed by the generosity of corporate donors and individuals keen to see the ship restored to its former glory.

READ MORE: Work set to begin on historic Clyde steamer

King George V, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, and the then Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret and Lord Mountbatten of Burma all sailed on the Queen Mary.

Other famous names to step aboard included US First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, Viscount Montgomery of Alamein and music hall legend Sir Harry Lauder.

The Herald: The Queen Mary was berthed at the Science Centre

The Queen Mary was berthed at the Science Centre (Image: NQ)

Her last time cruising was in September 1977 and the ship had a reputation as the largest, most luxurious and prestigious steamer on the Clyde intact.

Story continues

READ MORE: Restored TS Queen Mary to double as cruise ship and floating college

Iain Sim, Chairman of the Friends of TS Queen Mary said: We are delighted to welcome back to Glasgow our Royal Patron HRH The Princess Royal. Our ongoing endeavour to ensure TS Queen Mary sails again on the Clyde continues to gather pace with some significant progress in the last year.

We feel very privileged to have HRH The Princess Royal as our Royal Patron  celebrating, as it does the important link with the Royal Family which the ship is renowned for.
By Christoph Steitz and Sarah Marsh

CHEMNITZ, Germany (Reuters) - Manager Joerg Engelmann says he has pulled out all the stops to attract skilled foreign workers to his chemical engineering company in Chemnitz, east Germany. But once they arrived, the racial slurs and exclusion they experienced in the town have driven some of them away.

His firm is one of five German medium-sized companies that told Reuters their foreign staff recently moved on or switched locations due to xenophobia, even as Europe's biggest economy suffers a shortage of skilled labour.

Many large companies in Germany and the Netherlands have expressed concern about the difficulty of hiring due to anti-immigrant sentiment. Some employers go a step further, saying they are actually losing staff because of it.

CAC Engineering GmbH, the family-owned company Engelmann runs, has lost around five of its 40 foreign employees over the past 12 months because of discrimination, he told Reuters. The company declined to make its former staff available to Reuters.

"We do what we can. But we can't become bodyguards," said Engelmann, 57. "There are parts of the population who don't realise that these are foreign skilled workers who want to make a real contribution in Germany."

CAC did not give details, but xenophobic hate crime cases recorded across Germany by the interior ministry more than tripled between 2013 and 2022 to more than 10,000. Overall, Engelmann said, high energy costs pose a bigger challenge.

Official German estimates suggest the country as a whole will be short of seven million skilled workers by 2035, compared with a labour force of around 46 million.

The climate is more hostile in eastern Germany, where after the fall of communism plant closures and layoffs saw an exodus of young people and a lower birth rate.

Chemnitz, in the state of Saxony near the Czech border, is trying to attract skilled workers -- Engelmann's firm says it helps arrange temporary housing, language and even driving lessons to encourage foreign employees to settle.

Story continues

But Chemnitz has become a focus of anti-immigrant feelings since 2018 when anti-migrant protests in the city turned to riots.

Largely destroyed during World War Two and rebuilt under Communism as Karl-Marx-Stadt, it was one of Germany's richest cities at the turn of the 20th century.

Since reunification in 1990, its population has shrunk by around 20% to just over 250,000. Foreigners have jumped to nearly 14% of inhabitants from just over 2% in 2000, according to data from Chemnitz-based FOG Institute for Market and Social Research.

On Monday evenings at around 6 pm, around 250 people march through the town in a regular "Monday demonstration" promoted by one of the far right parties that make up a quarter of the city council's members. Marchers at a recent event sang nationalist songs, beat drums and waved the flags of Saxony, Germany and Russia.

Resident Farid Mokbil, 31, an Egyptian who came to Germany to teach German to foreigners, said he is happy in the town overall: He experiences racism often but doesn't take it personally.

"In the first week here I went shopping at the supermarket and an elderly woman just looked at me  I'm not sure if it was my appearance - but she just started shouting," he said. "Such weird situations happen ... A few days ago in the tram, a boy said loudly, 'here there are only Afghans who want to steal.'"

Christine Willauer, 84, a lifelong Chemnitz resident, said she felt asylum-seekers in Germany got financial benefits that the elderly did not.

"When I am in the city, some days I feel there are not many people speaking my own mother tongue anymore," she said. "I also miss the old manners."

City spokesman Matthias Nowak said the majority of people in Chemnitz are against extremism, adding that Chemnitz would "fall apart" without immigrants - for instance, 40% of staff at the hospital are foreigners.

'REMIGRATION'

Channelling the anti-immigrant mood are political parties including Alternative fuer Deutschland (AfD), which is on track to win three regional state elections in September this year including in Saxony.

The AfD has said it wants to reverse mass migration that occurred in 2015, create asylum centres outside the European Union, introduce strict controls on German borders, sanction migrants who do not integrate fully and create incentives for economic migrants to return home.

Germany's domestic intelligence agency, which has said it is monitoring the AfD on suspicion of extremism, says AfD party officials propagate racist theories such as the "Great Replacement," which holds that political elites are deliberately engineering the replacement of Europe's white population with non-white immigrants.

The party's Chemnitz chapter this month shared an article on its Facebook page about an alleged rape by migrants entitled "population replacement makes girls and women fair game."

In one post, Ulrich Oehme, deputy leader of AfD Chemnitz, comments that "life for our women and girls has become much harder in public spaces and worries about group rape and knife attacks are on the rise."

Oehme told Reuters his post was not xenophobic, but was addressing "issues felt massively by the local population." The AfD said it agreed with his observations, adding: "Immigration-related crime is very difficult to combat because it is often embedded in family or clan structures and because of cultural and language barriers."

Facebook owner Meta did not respond to a request for comment.

The AfD says its policies would not damage the economy.

"Here the government and state-owned companies are clearly and obviously distracting from the home-made problems and using the AfD as a scapegoat," it said in a statement to Reuters, citing the high energy prices worsened by Germany's nuclear exit and renewables drive.

But Germany's corporate executives took to the media to warn about the risks of anti-immigrant sentiment, following a January report by investigative portal Correctiv of a fundraising meeting in Potsdam where a "masterplan" for deportations of people of foreign origin -- dubbed "remigration" -- was discussed.

Attended by four senior AfD officials, the meeting was organised by a group called the Duesseldorfer Forum, which said on the invitation it is an "exclusive network of ... personalities who are ready to make significant contributions to ... stop the destruction of our country."

On a microsite created after the event, organizer Gernot Moerig said remigration was only one topic discussed. He could not be reached for comment.

Martin Sellner, an Austrian leader of the Identitarian Movement, which says it wants to preserve European identity and opposes immigration from outside the continent, told Reuters he had spoken at the meeting.

"Unassimilated citizens like Islamists, gangsters and welfare cheats should be pushed to adapt through a policy of standards and assimilation," he said, saying that could include incentives for voluntary return.

"In the long-term, a German remigration policy sets the course for ... Germany to become more German every day and not the opposite."

'CAPITAL OF CULTURE'

The hardening climate extends beyond Chemnitz, and does not only target people from outside Europe.

"Two of our foreign employees have left Germany because they said that they no longer feel comfortable and safe here," said Detlef Neuhaus, CEO of solar firm SolarWatt, based in the east German city of Dresden. He said one had moved back to England.

"These are direct consequences of the changing mood in the country."

The company declined to make its former staff available to Reuters.

Chemnitz-based Community4you, which supplies fleet and leasing software to corporate heavyweights such as Lufthansa, BMW and Commerzbank, said it has had employees move away because they no longer feel welcome.

Its Chief Operating Officer Lavinio Cerquetti, an Italian, moved northwest to Leipzig in 2021, saying the atmosphere was more cosmopolitan there.

"In Chemnitz, I sometimes had the feeling that the fact that I had to be careful was also related to the fact that I was a foreigner," he said.

Autonomous driving software maker FDTech, also based in Chemnitz, has also lost workers over xenophobia, its managing director Karsten Schulze said.

"Yes, we do have a problem with xenophobia here. But it's not limited to Saxony, to Chemnitz, we have it all across Germany. And by the way, all across Europe, too," he said.

Germany's economy shrank by 0.3% in 2023, the weakest performance globally among large countries.

A survey carried out over 2022 and 2023 by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has highlighted that while Germany remains very attractive to foreign workers, discrimination is a problem.

Tracking the careers of 30,000 highly qualified people who wanted to come to Germany as migrant workers since August 2022, the survey found that people who had already moved to Germany experienced more discrimination compared to the expectations of those still abroad.

Essen-based Deniz Ates, 30, who runs recruitment agency Who Moves that focuses on foreign IT workers, said he first noticed at an event in India late last year that people were worried about the political mood in Germany, with some saying the country was no longer an option for them.

"The most important factor in deciding where to apply for a job is: Do I feel safe? Do I feel welcome?" Ates said.

New Delhi-based lawyer Romy Kumar said he has put on hold efforts to relocate to Europe, where he spends several months a year, citing a rise in xenophobia.

"This limits your risk-taking abilities to jump on the next plane and go there and set up something," he said. "So that is why I'm taking it slow and trying to assess where is it going."

Chemnitz city spokesman Nowak said it had increased funds for anti-racism and pro-democracy projects since 2018 and wants to use plans for its coming role as a European Capital of Culture in 2025 to activate the "silent middle," addressing the issue of racism head-on.

Far-right parties have said they will protest this. One, Pro Chemnitz, has suggested the city should instead be the "capital of remigration."

"We have had enough of the kind of culture that has flooded Germany since 2015 - all you need to do is check the city centre," the party said in post on Telegram. The party did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters.

(Reporting by Christoph Steitz in Frankfurt and Sarah Marsh in Berlin; Additional Reporting by Toby Sterling in Amsterdam and Andreas Rinke in Berlin; editing by Matthias Williams and Sara Ledwith)
While Thailand has a reputation for tolerance, much of the Buddhist-majority country remains conservative and LGBTQ people still face discrimination (Lillian SUWANRUMPHA)

Thai advocates for LGBTQ rights hailed a major step forward Wednesday as the parliament passed a same-sex marriage bill in a landslide, paving the way for the nation to become the first in Southeast Asia to recognise marriage equality.

While Thailand enjoys a welcoming reputation for the international LGBTQ community, Thai activists have struggled for decades against conservative attitudes and values.

The bill sailed through on 399 to 10 votes in the lower house, although it must still be approved by the Senate and endorsed by the king before becoming the law of the land.

"Thailand is finally accepted and recognised as truly 'paradise for LGBTQI'," Chanya Rattanathada, 27, told AFP in the halls outside the voting chamber.

Inside, a small burst of cheers and clapping accompanied the final vote, with one representative waving a rainbow flag.

"Today, society has proved to us that they care about LGBT rights," said Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, an MP with the progressive Move Forward Party, which has long pushed for LGBTQ rights.

"Now we finally will have the same rights as others."

The proposal will change references to "men", "women", "husbands" and "wives" in the country's marriage law to gender-neutral terms.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said he was "proud of our pride" following approval of the bill.

"The passing (of this law) in the parliament today is a proud moment for Thai society who will walk together towards social equality and respect differences," he wrote on social media website X.

Across Asia only Taiwan and Nepal recognise same-sex marriage. Last year, India's highest court deferred the decision to parliament, and Hong Kong's top court stopped just short of granting full marriage rights.

- 'Making everyone equal' -

"It's a huge step for our country -- it is the first in Southeast Asia," Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn, a spokesperson with activist group Fortify Rights, told AFP.

Story continues

Mookdapa expressed hope that the later stages of the bill would progress smoothly, so that her country "will be on par with the international level in terms of LGBT rights".

The vote follows a decision by Srettha's cabinet last year that gave the go-ahead for the parliament debate.

The prime minister has been vocal in his support for the LGBTQ community, making the marriage equality policy a signature issue and telling reporters last year that the change would strengthen family structures.

Following the vote, Pheu Thai party spokesperson Danuphorn Punnakanta welcomed the decision of the lower house.

"Today, Thailand is one step ahead in terms of making everyone equal," he said.

Describing the law as one for "all Thai people", he emphasised that it would not violate heterosexual couples' rights -- but expand them for all relationships.

"It's only a win-win situation."

While Thailand has a reputation for tolerance, much of the Buddhist-majority country remains conservative and LGBTQ people, while highly visible, still face barriers and discrimination.

Activists have been pushing for same-sex marriage rights for more than a decade, but in a kingdom where politics is regularly upended by coups and mass street protests, the advocacy did not get far.

In 2022 Thai lawmakers gave initial approval to two bills that would allow same-sex marriages and two others that would permit civil partnerships.

But the legislation was dropped when parliament was dissolved to pave the way for a general election held last year.

Outside parliament, 18-year-old Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd told AFP there was a lot of excitement around the new law as it moved towards final approval.

But for now, they said: "We are happy."

tak-rbu/sco
Death of Democracy and Birth of Autocratic Demoncracy in India



The witch-hunt of opposition leaders is an attempt to crush any alternative rule to the Modi rule in India. This is unbecoming of democracy where democratically elected leaders are being harassed and arrested under the pretext of autocratic demoncracy in India. Read More

Thursday March 28, 2024 1:12 AM , Syed Ali Mujtaba

The arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has given a new spin to the general election of 2024. The BJP is managing the fallout of this spin in a bid to covert the vibrant democracy into autocratic demoncracy in India.

The United States has come out with the statement on Kejriwal's arrest saying, it encourages a fair legal process" and is closely monitoring the recent arrest of the Delhi Chief Minister.

Last week, Sebastian Fischer, Spokesperson of the German Foreign Ministry, said that the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister is politically motivated".

While India has kept mum on the US comments, it has lashed out at the German reaction, risking its defense and economic ties with the powerful Western European nation.

At home, the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal , the Delhi Chief Minister has triggered a near-unanimous condemnation from all the opposition parties.

Akhilesh Yadav, leader of the Samajwadi Party has warned of a peoples revolution if Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues with his politics of vendetta.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has commented, A scared dictator wants to create a dead democracy.

Derek OBrien Trinamool Congress leader said, How can we expect fair elections in India if sitting CMs and prominent opposition leaders are arrested weeks before the national election?

Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin described the arrest of Delhi's Chief Minister as a fascist step.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said the arrest was part of an outright vicious and callous design to silence the opposition voices.

Since the BJP government under the leadership of PM Modi came to power in 2014, 95 percent of the cases are taken up by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against the politicians belonging to the opposition. This represents a rise of 60 percent for the CBI, and 54 percent for the ED, from the days of the previous Congress-led government under Manmohan Singh that ruled India from 2004 to 2014.

Statics says India has slipped in the international democratic indexes under Modi's rule after arrests and raids of the opposition leaders, the critics, and the journalists.

These figures have made Congress leader Rahul Gandhi point out that the Modi government uses the Enforcement Directorate, the CBI, the Election Commission, and the Judiciary to achieve its nefarious ends.

The Congress leader has complained that the party is unable to continue the political campaigning because all its bank accounts have been frozen in connection with the ongoing tax disputes.

Last month, the Indian agency arrested Hemant Soren, the Chief Minister of Jharkhand, on charges of corruption. There have been similar arrests after raids on the houses and properties of the opposition leaders like the TMC leader Mahua Moitra, BRS MLC K. Kavitha Rao, and DMK Minister K Ponmudi. These cases point to the fact that the BJP government is going all out to silence the opposition.

The arrest of Arvind Kejriwal is also seen as an attempt to crush the Aam Admi Party (AAP), a democratic political party that rose in the shadow of the BJP in 2014 and now rules two states; Delhi and Punjab, in opposition to the BJP.

Now, with the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal almost the entire top leadership of the Aam Admi party is behind bars. Former Deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia , and former Health Minister Satyendar Jain and MP Sanjay Singh are all in prison. This is a grim reality of India, how democracy is subverted in the largest democracy in the world.

So far the Modi government has arrested two Chief Ministers, Delhi and Jharkhand, and many opposition leaders and possibly may arrest many more who do not endorse his style of governance. This style of Modi rule has silenced the opposition as they remain in perpetual fear and detest from raising any voice of dissent fearing they may be may also be guillotined.

The witch-hunt of opposition leaders is an attempt to crush any alternative rule to the Modi rule in India. This is unbecoming of democracy where democratically elected leaders are being harassed and arrested under the pretext of autocratic demoncracy in India.

Call it dirty politics or any other name foisting bogus cases on the opposition leaders is a fact and this is a new normal in Indian politics.

The arrests of Arvind Kejriwal also demonstrate the desperation of the BJP government as it faces the election for the third time. Some analysts believe that the Modi government is positioning itself to authoritarian rule by closing in on Kejriwal and other opposition leaders. Its a signal that the 2024 election will be undemocratic and farcical by all means.

There is no denying the fact that the BJP government is consolidating its power through authoritarian rule using the Enforcement Directorate, the CBI, and the Election Commission all to perpetuate its high-handed style of rule.

This style of governance has made some opposition leaders warn that the 2024 election will not be a free and fair exercise and there will be malpractices at the voting and counting stages.

All points to the fact that the 2024 Poll will be a one-sided affair due to the uneven playing field. Its results are taken for granted in favor of the continuation of the Modi rule. There is little doubt that the aftermath of the 2024 polls will witness the birth of autocratic demoncratic rule in India.

[Syed Ali Mujtaba is a journalist based in Chennai. He can be contacted at syedalimujtaba2007@gmail.com]

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Israel and Singapore: The Tale of Two Hybrid Nations



Israel must take lessons from Singapore, a tiny nation which has since emerged as worlds richest and the most peaceful and stable nation. Read More

Wednesday March 27, 2024 11:00 AM , Ashraf ud Doula

In this article, I wish to narrate in terms of their approaches to their neighbours and the contrasts between two countries  Israel and Singapore, to argue that while Israel chose hostility, cruelty and occupation as its strategy to exist, Singapore chose peaceful engagements with its giant neighbours as its path to peace, security and prosperity.

Israels Road to Hell

Since its establishment in 1948, Israel, a colonial construction has consistently pursued hostility towards its neighbours and occupation of the land of its immediate neighbour, Palestine as its strategy to secure itself as a state in the Middle East.

Since the Hamas attack in Israel on October 7, 2023 , that resulted in deaths of over 1100 Israelis and abduction of 250 hostages, Israel went on a revenge mission that has surpassed all human imagination of cruelty and destruction .

Indeed, the world has been watching with horror the last five months the genocide of Israel against the Palestinians that have killed and maimed more that 35,000 that include old men, women, and children and counting. Despite visible outcry internationally , the marauding Israeli Defence Forces, under orders of equally inhuman Netanyahu government and with the active support of morally depraved allies, the United States, UK, Germany, France and a few others Israel continues with its killing mission, undeterred.

The Gaza Strip itself has been bombed mercilessly and turned into a pile of rubbles with civic amenities such as water, electricity, gas, schools, hospitals, and infrastructures razed to the ground.

Of late, the Israelis have started to use starvation and total ban on food supply to the beleaguered and foodless people of Gaza as yet another cruel arsenal in their genocidal mission, to punish the Gazans.

The carnage is showing no signs of abatement even though the ICJ has issued a clear ruling , after hearing long and arduous legal arguments from both, Israel - defending its culpability on one hand and South Africa, bringing before the worlds highest court of justice Israels blood lust of annihilation of an entire nation, the Palestinians, on the other. Indeed, South argued with evidence That  there was enough evidence of a genocidal intent by Israel on the Gaza Strip and it should protect the Palestinians from the risk of genocide by ensuring sufficient assistance and enabling basic services.

As is its wont Israel rubbished the ICJ ruling and continued with its killing spree with the sole objective of exterminating the Palestinian population and forcing them out of Gaza. All of these are happening in broad daylight under the very watchful eyes and direct support of the so-called human rights champions, who continue to supply arms to Israels killing mission and at the same time, relentlessly lecture the world to follow international rules. To the West, the Palestinians didnt count as human beings, and they were fair games for hunting down.

With more than 35,000 Palestinians dead and counting, and a whole city razed to the ground and more than a million made uprooted from their homes, can Israel claim that it is more secure than before and on a path of stability and prosperity? The answer is anything but clear.

Singapores Peaceful Engagement

Now I want to bring into perspective the Singapore story. Singapore, like Israel, is also a hybrid country, populated by mostly Chinese migrants, that came into being in 1965 due to certain political anomalies of the time between Singapore and the Malay Federation. The separation was neither smooth nor without bloodletting. But soon sanity returned to the leadership of the two countries who worked hard to control the situation. Since then the two countries never got entangled in any armed conflict, though there have been considerable social, political, security, and economic tensions between them.

Having lived in Singapore for a little over four years, I have observed how Singapore built a relationship of trust, understanding, empathy, and mutual respect with its neighbouring countries regardless of their religious, social, political, and economic matrix through constant dialogue and regular interactions to settle any disputes.

The great political thinker and strategist of our time Lee Quan Yew , who fathered the birth of Singapore and single-handedly nurtured its growth and prosperity to transform it from a sleepy regional port to the level of one of the most modern, prosperous, and richest countries in the world within a short span of 30 years, strictly followed two sacrosanct and ironclad state policies.

Lee was conscious of Singapores complex geographical reality, being surrounded by big Muslim nations, though not outright inimical but with mixed feelings. So, as Singapore was becoming rich, being aware that the new wealth status of the country was likely to breed jealousy among its neighbours , he consciously constructed a policy of rich thy neighbours - meaning, as you grow also pull your neighbour along , averting any potential misstep.

Second, he also concurrently built the Singapore armed forces into a regional formidable force, by implementing an universal compulsory national conscription strategy and introducing a large swath of the latest arms and weapons including modernisation of air and naval power.

The philosophy behind such an ingenious move was aimed at creating a strong deterrent for the potential invader  while it may not be eventually sustainable for the country to avert an invasion; it would be so costly for the invader that they would lose all incentives for such an adventurism. The outcome of these proactive policies have engendered a conducive condition in the region for creating common good for all.

Singapores policy of peaceful and equitable engagement policy that was applied both within and across that the country has now emerged as one of the most stable, peaceful and inclusive nation in the world and its policy of inclusiveness has gone so far that in 2025 it elected as its President  a constitutional head  a woman who happens to be a Hijabi Muslim as well.

Whither Israel?

Time for Israel and more importantly its allies, especially the US to pause and ponder. They must acknowledge that Israels policy of intimidation, occupation, and murder of its neighbours to secure itself as a stable, secure, and prosperous nation has not worked. According to some, the murderous actions of Netanyahu has weakened the political and moral fabric of Israel.

Indeed, from the ICJ ruling, to persistent UN resolutions as well as worldwide condemnations of Israels genocide in Palestine has made it the most hated nation on earth and its allies, especially the US, the most despised.

The Wests, especially the US cowardly obsession or pitiable kowtowing to Israel emanates from two indivisible factors  political financing by the AIPAC, a front for the Zionists, from the president down to a congressman, regardless of the party they belong, and an unfounded and imaginary strategic theory that Israel serves as a democratic bastion and vital security partner of the US in the vast desert lands of despotic and barbarian Arab nations. Though the available evidence suggests the ground reality is quite opposite. Its amazing to see how this small population of Jews has enslaved the entire American and major European governments, corporate world, media, and financial institutions including civil and academic societies, to comply with their agendas. Of course, there are a few sane and pragmatic voices, who have miserably failed to sway their nations to see the truth.

For decades Israel has used its holocaust card to cover all their crimes against humanity and violation of the international rules. Its the only country that has ignored most of the UNSC resolutions- 27 in total.

I have always been bothered by a pertinent question, which is fraught with the risk that it might be construed as antisemitic or heretical by the Jews which is that we all know that the Jews have lived in Germany for centuries, and made great contributions to the economy, science, medicine, and other vital social sectors not only in Germany but to the greater world.

Then, why were they hated so much by most of the Europeans, which Hitler took to the extreme which resulted in one of most heinous crimes on earth, the holocaust? What possessed Hitler, who himself becoming and quite rightly so, the most hated man on earth?

Isnt it Israel doing the same thing to the Palestinians? Why do they hate the Palestinians so much?

I dare to make an observation, if a survey is taken in the Muslim world, you will find that anti-Jewish sentiments are less prevalent in those countries than in Europe and America. The Muslim rage emanates not from their inherent hatred against the Jews per se. This is because of the religious point of view that the Prophet of the Jews, Moses (Peace be Upon Him), is also the Prophet of Muslims and has been mentioned in Quran numerous times as one of Allahs favourite prophets.

It is Israels unremitting cruelties and injustices against the Palestinians that by association are also brewing resentments against the Jews which is most unfortunate and uncalled for. In other words, no other but Israel has caught itself in the quagmire of a sense of insecurity, rage, aggression, and furthering insecurity.

The Way Forward: Can Israel Learn from Singapore?

If Israel thinks that more murders in Palestine and more destruction of Gaza would deliver peace and stability in Israel, then they are dead wrong. Israel must take lessons from Singapore, a tiny nation which has since emerged as worlds richest and the most peaceful and stable nation. The secret to Singapores rise is its policy of peaceful engagement with neighbours and beyond.

The problem with Israel is that as a colonial construct, Israel started to act like a colonial invader  they made intimidation, eviction, and uprooting the Palestinians and confiscating their ancestral lands their strategies to establish themselves as a nation. They came not as friends but as colonisers.

Time has come for Israel to realise that it cant pursue an aggressive policy against its neighbours for eternity. If indeed, the Israelis are true believe in their holy book, Torah, they should know the tyrants like Nimruds and Pharaohs, the worst of worst perpetrators of cruelties and injustices who saw themselves as Invincibles couldnt save themselves from the wrath of the almighty.

The day of reckoning for Israel will surely come, if not in 10 years, maybe in 50 years or 100 years but it will come. They need to reflect what made their ancestry the stateless people for millennia.

I hope the present political dispensation of Israel will not bequeath their posterity with such a cursed future, being a prisoner of their ego and arrogance.

Its never too late to start a new page for the next generations for the Israelis as well as for the Palestinians  explore the Singapore model and learn the way to live in mutual peace with neighbours and march to prosperity, together. This will make Israelis and the Palestinians live happily as neighbours and the world a better place.

[The writer, Ashraf ud Doula, is a Bangladeshi Freedom Fighter, Former Secretary, and Ambassador of the Government of Bangladesh.]

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Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun to step down as company faces intense safety scrutiny

Xinhua) 11:15, March 27, 2024

SAN FRANCISCO, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun on Monday announced his decision to step down at the end of the year amid the planemaker's exacerbated safety crisis.

SAFETY CRISIS

Boeing has grappled with significant quality and safety issues concerning its aircraft for years, leading to the prolonged grounding of specific models and halted deliveries.

From October 2018 to March 2024, the company faced several incidents that underscored concerns about the safety and reliability of its aircraft.

Notably, a Boeing 787-9 flying from Australia to New Zealand this month suffered a "technical failure" in flight, leading to severe turbulence within the fuselage and numerous injuries.

In January, a series of safety crises shook the industry's confidence in the planemaker.

On Jan. 20, a wheel in the landing gear of a Boeing 757 passenger plane fell off and rolled off the runway when the plane was taxiing and preparing for flight. On Jan. 13, a Boeing 737 was found to have a crack in the front glass of the cockpit during flight. On Jan. 5, a door stopper of a built-in emergency door fell off the side of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 shortly after takeoff.

A total of 346 people were killed in the crashes of Indonesia's Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines in October 2018 and March 2019, respectively, both of which were Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, leading to a global grounding of the 737 MAX for nearly two years.

These incidents, spanning from engine troubles to structural failures, have raised significant concerns about Boeing's safety management processes and quality control and underscored the urgent need for stringent safety and quality checks within the aviation industry.

DEAD WHISTLEBLOWER

The startling image of a Boeing aircraft flying with a gaping hole in its fuselage has sent shockwaves around the globe. Equally compelling is the story of John Barnett, a former quality manager who worked for Boeing for three decades before becoming a whistleblower.

Barnett raised significant safety concerns about the company's aircraft. In 2019, Mr Barnett told the BBC that under intense pressure, workers had been deliberately fitting substandard parts to aircraft on the production line.

He revealed that he had uncovered serious problems with oxygen systems, suggesting that one in four breathing masks would be ineffective in an emergency.

He also said workers had failed to follow procedures to track factory components, allowing defective components to go missing.

Upon retiring, Barnett initiated an extended legal battle against the company, including allegations that Boeing attacked his character and hampered his career. The planemaker denied the allegations.

On March 9, Barnett was found dead in a vehicle from a self-inflicted wound in a hotel parking lot in the U.S. state of South Carolina.

Barnett's sudden death comes at a time when Boeing's production standards are under intense scrutiny. It has also sparked discussions about Boeing's safety practices and internal culture.

Boeing said it was saddened to hear of Barnett's passing.

In an interview with a local TV network, Jennifer, a friend of Barnett, claimed she didn't believe Barnett died by suicide.

Barnett "loved life too much" and "loved his family too much" to go through the act of taking his own life, she said, adding that someone "didn't like what he had to say" and wanted to "shut him up."

Barnett had warned her, "If anything happens to me, it's not suicide."

LEADERSHIP OVERHAUL

Dave Calhoun will continue to lead Boeing through the year to complete the critical work underway to stabilize and position the company for the future, Boeing said in an announcement.

Board Chair Larry Kellner has informed the board that he does not intend to stand for re-election at the upcoming annual shareholder meeting, it added.

The board has elected Steve Mollenkopf to succeed Kellner as independent board chair. In this role, Mollenkopf will lead the board's process of selecting Boeing's next CEO.

In addition to these changes, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stan Deal will retire from the company, and Stephanie Pope has been appointed to lead Boeing Commercial Airplanes as the new president and CEO, according to the announcement.

"It has been the greatest privilege of my life to serve Boeing," said Calhoun in a letter to employees. "The eyes of the world are on us... We will remain squarely focused on completing the work we have done together to return our company to stability after the extraordinary challenges of the past five years."

The shift in leadership occurs against the backdrop of the Department of Justice's expanding criminal investigation into Boeing. The FBI informed passengers of the Alaska Airlines flight last week that they could be victims of a crime.

The New York Times has reported that several airline leaders have publicly expressed frustration with the manufacturer. The chief executives of many major carriers in the United States were set to meet with Kellner and other board members this week.

Boeing shares have lost roughly a quarter of their value since the start of the year. The aerospace giant's shares moved higher Monday after it unveiled the major leadership changes.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
LJUBLJANA, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Foreign ministers of five Central European countries met in Slovenia on Tuesday and welcomed the United Nations (UN) Security Council's resolution on Gaza adopted on Monday.

"We hope that due to this resolution the supply of help to civilians will strengthen and that it will lead to lasting peace in Gaza," Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon told a joint news conference, after having the meeting with her Austrian, Czech, Hungarian and Slovakian counterparts.

The UN resolution demands an immediate cease-fire in Gaza for the holy month of Ramadan.

Slovenia, which is a non-permanent member of the Security Council, was among the countries that prepared the resolution, which won 14 votes in favor among the 15 members of the council.

Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg said that the resolution is "a sign of life of the United Nations," but added that "concrete steps can only be achieved on the ground."

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said that all civilians must be protected as much as possible. 
HA NOI  Large livestock enterprises are expected to benefit greatly when the regulation on locations not permitted to run livestock farms takes effect from 2025.

But it's feared the same regulation will cause problems for small households running pig farms.

The Law on Livestock that was effective from 2020 has an article on prohibiting to conduct livestock production in areas not allowed for livestock production in cities, towns and living quarters; except raising ornamental animals and raising animals in the laboratory without polluting the environment.

According to the law, that regulation will come into effect from January 1, 2025. with localities given five years to relocate unsuitable livestock facilities.

Tens of thousands of livestock facilities nationwide will have to move out of residential areas or cease operations. This is considered a great change of the livestock sector.

According to analysts, the new regulation will force small livestock farms to leave, making way for large-scale facilities. This is also an inevitable trend for the livestock industry to be standardised.

According to the January 2024 report released by Agribank Securities Joint Stock Company (Agriseco), many livestock households will have to stop their production. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has a draft to support those livestock households in the relocation of their farms. But, up to now it has not been approved.

With this change, large listed enterprises of the livestock industry have actively invested in expansion to increase capacity.

Notably, Dabaco Vietnam Group Joint Stock Company (stock code: DBC) and BaF Vietnam Agriculture Joint Stock Company (stock code: BAF) have invested in a series of new livestock farms to increase capacity.

Dabaco has invested in increasing capacity with a series of large-scale livestock farm projects. They include a livestock project with capacity of 5,600 sows and 77,400 commercial pigs in Thanh Hoa, and Dabaco Phu Tho pig breed project's Phase 3 with a capacity of 4,800 sows and more than 70,000 commercial pigs. The total capacity of the two projects increases by nearly 25 per cent.

The large businesses also have an advantage of having food supply chain from farm to table, being less affected by diseases than the supply from livestock households, thanks to ensuring hygiene and safety in production.

In addition, the large businesses will not sell off due to having the disease, reducing price fluctuations in the market.

According to experts, to have stable development in the livestock industry, localities need to actively implement the Livestock Law and livestock development strategies. They need to focus on developing a market-oriented livestock industry, promoting the strengths of each region and each key livestock to improve production efficiency.

They should also promote a high-tech livestock industry, develop key products associated with brand construction and development, and continuously expand livestock production applying VietGAP standards.

In the Livestock Development Strategy until 2030, Viet Nam strives to have a total pig herd of 30 million, produce about 6 million tonnes of meat (pork accounting for 60 per cent), and export 15-20 per cent of pork output total.

In 2024, the livestock industry aims to increase production value by about 4-5 per cent compared to 2023, and the proportion of livestock in the overall agricultural production is estimated to reach 28-30 per cent.  VNS
HA NOI  The Ministry of Transport has asked carriers to develop aircraft fleet operation plans to meet the rising travel demand for the upcoming national holidays and summer peak.

In a document sent to the Civil Aviation Authority of Viet Nam, the ministry said that the restructuring of some airlines fleet and flight networks, coupled with the recall of PW1100 engines by Pratt & Whitney for repair, have affected the load on both international and domestic flight routes, causing difficulties to passengers in terms of prices and schedules.

Statistics showed that the aircraft fleet in operation in Viet Nam has been reduced by 25 per cent, from 223 in 2023 to 173 in the first quarter of this year.

The request is raised in the context that the upcoming national holidays of South Vietnam Liberation Day on April 30th and Labour Day on May 1, and summer holidays, will push up air travel demand.

Accordingly, airlines must develop aircraft fleet operation plans to meet the demand as well as raise solutions to reduce flight cancellations or delays and improve service quality.

The ministry asked the Civil Aviation Authority of Viet Nam to enhance supervision over the air transportation services, ticket listings and sales to prevent illegal increases in air tickets. Any violations must be promptly handled.

In addition, flight operation plans and adjustments must be made public so that passengers can be active with their travel plans.

Pratt & Whitneys recall of its PW1100 engines affects several Airbus A321 NEO operated by Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet, meaning that these planes will be grounded in 2024 and 2025.

According to Vietnam Airlines general director Le Hong Ha, the shortage of aircrafts caused by engine repair and maintenance poses significant difficulties to airlines in 2024.

The problem is that it takes up to 250-300 days for maintenance of an engine, compared to the previous average maintenance time of 100-120 days due to the disruption in supply chains.

Vietnam Airlines currently operates around 60 A321, 12 of which must be grounded for the engine maintenance.

Other airlines are struggling with restructuring.

Starting from March 18, Pacific Airlines (part of the Vietnam Airlines Group) suspends flight operations to restructure its fleet and flight network in an effort to ensure operational efficiency. After returning the aircrafts to clear debt, the airline will not operate any aircraft but rent from Vietnam Airlines.

Bamboo Airways is also undergoing a major restructuring. It has been shutting down all international flight routes and low-performing domestic routes since the end of last year, including routes from HCM City and Ha Noi to Con ao starting from April.

Bamboo reached an agreement to terminate a lease contract on three Embraer E190 jets, narrow-body aircraft accommodating up to 114 passengers, by the end of March. The aircraft fleet of Bamboo will be reduced from the peak of 30 to only 8 from April 2024.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Viet Nam said that the reduction in the number of aircraft in operation would affect the air transport load this year.

The authority asked air carriers to have plans to make up for the shortage of jets, especially in peak periods such as summer holidays.

Airlines must announce adjustments of flight schedules daily and keep passengers updated.  VNS
HA NOI - The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) has proposed increasing the support for research and development (R&D) costs to over 50 per cent for foreign direct investment (FDI) businesses, said the chamber in policy feedback requested by the Ministry of Planning and Investment

The chamber said as Viet Nam was to impose additional corporate income tax under the global minimum tax, it would be a good time to upgrade the country's investment support policies as well, saying they would provide both challenges and opportunities for the Southeast Asian country.

According to VCCI, investment support policies offer flexibility, allowing the state to select the target, form and content of support to guide enterprises in investment activities, aimed at producing positive outcomes for society. Therefore, while designing investment support policies, it is essential to choose options that can realise more than one objective, those that support business enterprises and produce positive, long-term impacts on Viet Nam's socio-economic development.

The chamber said the current 50 per cent limit on R&D costs for FDI businesses should be reviewed and reconsidered. VCCI advised that the support level could go up as high as 75 per cent, given that the FDI would employ a sufficient number of local talents for the job. In addition to the spill-over effect on the economy, the new incentive would help encourage closer collaboration among businesses and research institutions, enhancing their capabilities and contributing to the scientific and technological development of the country.

In addition, the chamber recommended adding criteria concerning the nationality of directly employed researchers to promote the recruitment of Vietnamese researchers and scientists to conduct R&D activities.

Regarding support for fixed asset investment costs, up to a 40 per cent maximum, both movable and immovable assets must be made available to high-tech sector R&D for at least three years. Meanwhile, the chamber suggested a more detailed classification of support levels based on asset types with a clear preference for immovable assets.

"Such policies help incentivise businesses to make and spend in Viet Nam, instead of moving production elsewhere," said the chamber in a statement. VNS
HA NOI  The domestic stock market finished higher on Tuesday, recouping all losses from the previous session, while foreign investors net sold for the tenth straight day.

The benchmark VN-Index on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE) increased 14.35 points, or 1.13 per cent, to 1,282.21 points. It had lost nearly 14 points on Monday as investors took profits from the recent rallies.

More than 230 ticker symbols traded higher on the southern bourse, while 99 stocks ticked down. However, liquidity dropped sharply from the previous session as the trading value fell 25 per cent to nearly VN22 trillion (US$930.3 million).

The VN30-Index, tracking the 30 biggest stocks in terms of market capitalisation on HoSE, climbed 16.23 points, to 1.28 per cent, to close the trading day at 1,286.23 points. In the VN30 basket, 26 stocks edged up, two declined and two ended flat.

Hundreds of thousands of investors with accounts at VNDirect Securities Corporation were still unable to place orders while the market soared back.

The securities firm has announced that they are working to restore their system after two days of continuous processing by their technology team. However, due to the large amount of data, the system is taking longer than expected. As a result, both the VNDirect website and application remained inaccessible at the end of the trading session.

Lifting the market's rally was Vietnam Rubber Group (GVR). Shares of the rubber producer jumped nearly 6.3 per cent after opening the week with a loss of more than 4.06 per cent.

Many banking stocks also witnessed strong recoveries on Tuesday, such as VPBank (VPB) up 3.7 per cent, Techcombank (TCB) surged 2.57 per cent, Vietcombank (VCB) rose 0.63 per cent, MBBank (MBB) was up 2.23 per cent and Vietinbank (CTG) jumped 1.44 per cent.

Also supporting the bullish sentiment, shares of many steel producers performed well. Particularly, Hoa Phat Group (HPG), Hoa Sen Group (HSG) and Nam Kim Group (NKG) all advanced at least 1.16 per cent.

On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX), the HNX-Index also rebounded to 242.03 points, up 1.22 points, or 0.51 per cent. Nearly 87.2 million shares were traded on the northern bourse, worth over VN1.75 trillion.

Meanwhile, foreign investors extended their net selling activities for ten days in a row. They net sold VN175.5 billion on HoSE and VN7 billion on HNX.  VNS
HA NOI  A workshop was held in Ha Noi on March 26 to discuss semiconductor measurement and testing technology in training, research, development and production.

The event was co-hosted by the National Innovation Centre (NIC), the Ministry of Planning and Investment, ASIC Technologies and Keysight Technologies of the US.

Sangho Oh, director of Keysight South Asia Pacific Regional Sales, highlighted the crucial role of measurement throughout the design and manufacturing process of semiconductor chips.

He also further reaffirmed Keysight's commitment to provide Viet Nam's burgeoning semiconductor industry with necessary tools and expertise.

Keysight is ready to collaborate with the NIC to propel Viet Nams semiconductor industry, he said.

Deputy Director of ASIC Technologies Nguyen Anh Quan said the event will contribute to developing Viet Nam's human resources and semiconductor technology.

Leading experts from Keysight presented solutions to semiconductor chip measurement to optimise the design and manufacturing process.  VNS
BERLIN  A group representing the northern province of Thai Binh, led by Deputy Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Nguyen Khac Than, undertook a visit to various localities and business entities in Germany from March 25 to 27. Their aim was to bolster trade ties and encourage direct investment from the European nation.

During their time in Germany, the delegation engaged in discussions with officials from Hanover, the capital and largest city of Lower Saxony state.

Addressing the gathering, Than, who also serves as Chairman of the Thai Binh Peoples Committee, expressed aspirations for fostering collaboration between the province and Hanover in the foreseeable future.

Furthermore, Thai Binh seeks to attract German investment particularly in sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and labour cooperation. Than highlighted that the province is planning to establish Viet Nam's inaugural biopharmaceutical industrial park.

Than and Mayor of Hanover Thomas Hermann also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation between the provincial Department of Planning and Investment and Hannoverimpuls GmbH  the economic development agency of the city and Hanover region.

As a result, both parties agreed to work together to help companies from Hanover and Thai Binh expand their business operations. They also decided to share information, send business groups back and forth, hold conferences and seminars together, offer advice on industries, and assist in finding partners in marketing, science, and technology.

The delegation then worked with the Chamber of Commerce Hannover to introduce the province and its investment opportunities.

They also organised a forum for investment and business connection between Thai Binh and Lower Saxony, attended by about 30 German companies.  VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha hosted a reception on Wednesday for Mary L. Schapiro, Vice Chairwoman of the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ).

Viet Nam is facing difficulties in establishing mechanisms and policies for green transformation, the Deputy PM said, noting that many investors have expressed interest in renewable energy projects but have yet to solve technology-related challenges concerning ensuring the balance and stability of the national power grid, producing and using green hydrogen and ammonia, energy storage solutions and electricity export.

Viet Nam aims to address legal obstacles in the near future while simultaneously piloting offshore wind and solar power projects with energy storage solutions, and flexible power supply, he said.

The Deputy PM emphasised that Viet Nam has built some energy transition projects such as enhancing capacity of hydropower plants in combination with solar and wind power, developing biomass electricity, transitioning to green transportation, reducing methane emissions on over one million hectares of rice fields and developing 5,000MW of rooftop solar power, but financial support is required to carry them out soon.

Viet Nam hopes to receive technical assistance and expertise in devising and perfecting institutions, transferring technology and assessing the feasibility of energy centres and offshore wind power, the official said.

He suggested that GFANZ establish clear financial mechanisms regarding the responsibilities of stakeholders, including Government, financial institutions and businesses, the specificity of funding sources for the renewable energy sector, and promptly materialise them through projects.

The Deputy PM also said that the alliance should have specific commitments relating to finance and technology transfer from G7 countries and international partners within the Joint Energy Transition Partnership (JETP).

Schapiro, for her part, said GFANZ will allocate financial resources for research, innovation, and technology transfer in the renewable energy sector.

She said she expects to receive clear requests and proposals from Viet Nam's ministries and sectors regarding mechanisms for mobilising funds in the international market for enterprises investing in smart grid development, renewable energy, fossil energy transition, green fuel production from solar and offshore wind power.  VNS
HA NOI  Local cultivation and plant protection authorities and relevant agencies must prepare a list of growing areas and packaging facilities registering to export fresh coconut and frozen durian to China before April 1.

With this list, Viet Nam can export soon those coconut and durian products to China after it is allowed official export of those products to this huge neighbouring market, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Meanwhile, the ministry's Department of Cultivation and Plant Protection will work with localities' sub-department of cultivation and plant protection to review and evaluate the growing areas and the packaging facilities for those products.

They also prepare equipment and machinery meeting the plant quarantine and food safety requirements of the importing country.

Vietnamese fresh durian was officially exported to China from July 2022. Thanks to that, the fresh durian export turnover in 2023 reached a record high at about US$2.3 billion.

ang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Viet Nam Fruit and Vegetable Association, said if official export of frozen durian to China is allowed, Viet Nam's durian export turnover is expected to increase 30 per cent each year.

In 2024, Viet Nam's fruit and vegetable exports are anticipated to boom if its fresh coconuts and frozen durians are exported to China.  VNS
AN GIANG  The Mekong Delta province of An Giang on March 27 exported 18 tonnes of acacia (Keo) mangoes to the Republic of Korea.

This was the first batch of mangoes exported to South Korea under a contract signed between Long Binh Agriculture Cooperative in An Phu District and Hoang Phat Fruit Ltd Co.

Trang Cong Cuong, chairman of the An Phu District Peoples Committee, said Viet Nam has spent more than 10 years negotiating the export of local mangoes to South Korea and other demanding markets in the world. An Phu District's authorities, businesses, cooperatives and farmers have made great efforts to export mangoes to this market.

This official emphasised that local authorities will promote supports for enterprises and farmers to build stable material areas, develop sustainable value chains, and accelerate the issuance of codes for remaining mango growing areas.

They will also coordinate with fruit exporting companies to survey other mango orchards to sign export contracts.

An Giang Province has more than 12,000 ha of land growing mango, including 1,860 ha in An Phu District. This district has over 354 ha of mango farming in line with GlobalGAP standards.

About 61 area planting acacia mangoes in An Phu District have been issued codes to export this fruit to New Zealand, the US, South Korea, Japan, Australia and China.  VNS
BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday left a message in a Russian Embassy online condolence book on the terrorist attack in Moscow.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, extended his deep condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack in Moscow, saying that China opposes all forms of terrorism, strongly condemns terrorist attacks and firmly supports the Russian government's efforts to safeguard its national security and stability. 
HA NOI  Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang received a delegation from Dongfang business association led by Pang Gangzhi, Chairman of Anzhi Group, in Ha Noi on March 27.

Speaking highly of the Viet Nam-China Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership which has been developing in a practical and deep fashion, Deputy PM Quang held that both sides hold tremendous cooperation potential and opportunities that can be concretised through specific projects.

He suggested the two countries work together in human resources training in AI and digital transformation, adding Viet Nam is cooperating with Samsung and LG to realise its target of training 5,000 semiconductor engineers by 2030.

Pang congratulated Viet Nam on the achievements it has carved out after more than 30 years of renewal and opening its door.

He said the business association comprises enterprises from a great bay area including the four cities of Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macau and Shenzen, which is the fourth largest urban area in the world, following San Francisco and New York of the US, and Tokyo of Japan.

The area is also an innovation centre of China with total gross domestic product mounting to some US$2 trillion, he added.

Going on a field trip to Hai Phong and Quang Ninh provinces in northern Viet Nam, the Chinese delegation found that Viet Nam is a potential market and said they want to land investment in the areas of high technology, digital transformation, smart urban area management, AI and big data.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nams capital city Ha Noi has topped the list of the Best Food Destination 2024 voted by readers of the world's largest travel guidance platform TripAdvisor.

The city has successfully surpassed several other famous food destinations across the world such as Rome of Italy, Paris of France, and New Delhi of India to win the prize.

Along with plenty of sightseeing spots, the capital is also known for its rich and diverse range of culinary culture. For most of visitors to Ha Noi, their trip cant be completed without sampling some of its famous dishes, such as pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli), and banh mi (baguettes). Other renowned dishes of Ha Noi include egg coffee, cha ca La Vong (charcoaled grilled fish), and bun au mam tom (vermicelli with fried tofu and shrimp paste).

In the list, the top 10 Best Food Destinations also includes Rome (Italy) Crete (Greece), Cusco (Peru), Florence (Italy), New Delhi (India), Barcelona (Spain), New Orleans (the US), Lisbon (Portugal), and Phuket (Thailand).

The Travelers Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. Its awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone, Tripadvisor wrote on its website.

Ha Noi's food and drinks have been presented in different reality shows of late celebrity chef Anthony Bourdin, who visited Ha Noi four times to film season 2 (Episode 12) of A Cooks Tour, season 1 (Episode 3) and season 6 (Episode 1) of No Reservations, and season 8 (Episode 1) of Parts Unknown.

The famous chef tasted several famous street food and drink of the city including bun cha, bun oc rice vermicelli soup with snails), bun suon chan gio (rice vermicelli soup with pork rib and taro stems), banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), and bia hoi (draught beer).  VNS
BINH DUONG  The southern province of Binh Duong is known as one of the largest industrial hubs in the country, so it has a lot of potential to develop industrial tourism.

This type of tourism is expected to be a unique feature to promote the image of local businesses.

Each month, the Yakult Viet Nam Co., LTD in Thuan An City welcomes about 3,000 people to visit its production line and operating processes, and to learn about the company's history. This is an emerging location that attracts many students and families with children to visit and learn about the products they are using.

Visitors can easily schedule a tour of the company via its website or phone number and it is completely free.

They will be provided with information about the structure of the Yakult factories, visit the 3D painting exhibition area, production line, souvenir stalls and the company's products.

Le Thi Huyen, a first year student at Ho Chi Minh City Open University, said that she was impressed at the closed production process with modern and advanced equipment in the factory.

The tour helped her better understand and feel more secure when using the product, she said.

Fito Museum, a Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Pharmacy based in Thuan An City, is also another interesting industrial tourist destination in Binh Duong.

It is a complex of more than 2,000sq.m of beautiful buildings in the traditional style of the three regions of Viet Nam.

Visitors will have chance to admire the collection of 1,000 paintings of medicinal herbs, considered to be the largest collection of medicinal paintings in Viet Nam. They can also look at models of Oriental medicine, Southern medicine and medicinal utensils dating back hundreds of years.

The museum displays 48 favourite and effective remedies by the progenitor of Vietnamese traditional medicine Hai Thuong Lan Ong Le Huu Trac, who is honoured as an eminent personality by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Along with that, tourists are provided with more information about Vietnamese traditional medicine through the documentary "Eastern Experience" with four versions in Vietnamese, English, Russian and French and learn about effective esoteric medicine methods and experience oriental medicine making. Visitors can also mix and taste their own remedies under guidance from experts.

The museum is open every Tuesday and Saturday with ticket prices of VN180,000 (US$7.2) and VN280,000 (US$11.2).

Industrial tourism has been developing for a long time in many countries around the world, but in Viet Nam it is still very new.

Binh Duong is the industrial hub of the country with a series of modern industrial parks. Therefore, this is a locality with great potential in developing this tourism model.

Pham Hong Thi, Deputy Director of the province'd Tourism Promotion Centre, said along with a system of recognised historical and cultural relics, traditional craft villages and handicrafts with a history of more than 300 years, Binh Duong also has about 30 industrial parks with diverse fields and professions. These are advantages for the province to exploit and to develop industrial tourism.

Currently, the province is focusing on exploiting industrial tourism in industrial parks in Thuan An City, such as VSIP I industrial park, ong An Industrial Park, Yakult manufacturing factory, Fito Museum and a crocodile leather factory, Thi said.

Each month, these locations welcome tens of thousands of visitors.

However, many companies are still hesitant to approach this new tourism model because of issues such as security, production line secrecy and lack of experience.

To overcome these difficulties and develop more professionally, Thi said, in the coming time, the centre will organise a survey team with the participation of leaders of related departments to encourage and motivate businesses, factories and production facilities to participate in developing industrial tourism products.

At the same time, the centre will organise workshops between travel companies and businesses to exchange and build tours. It will also promote tourism products to potential customers through a variety of media channels such as newspapers, radio, social networks and travel magazines.  VNS
HA NOI  The two music shows that Ngot band abruptly cancelled, CAM GALA: i and Nhung Thanh Pho Mo Mang (Dreamy Cities), officially confirmed the bands cancellation yesterday.

Upon the band's announcement that they would stop performing, even previously scheduled shows, and the fans' confusion, representatives of the Dreamy Cities and CAM GALA, appeared quite surprised, hoping the fans would give them more time to get an official response.

CAM GALA: i officially confirmed that Ngot band would not perform in concert on April 6 in HCM City or April 12 in Ha Noi.

The organisers of CAM GALA will have gifts for the fans at the concert, and also offers to cancel tickets and refund 50 per cent of the value for ticket-holders who now do not want to join the concert.

The representative of the Dreamy Cities show also officially confirmed that Ngot band would not perform in concert in the capital city, a Nang or HCM City on April 20, May 18 and June 15, respectively.

Up to now, no one knows exactly why the Ngot band suddenly stopped performing after 10 years of making music.

Ngot is one of the representatives of indie music in Viet Nam and fans were left in shock, wondering if Ngot had disbanded.

In self-declaring the show's cancellation, Ngot band is criticised for being irresponsible by their fans.

Most comments from the Keo community (Ngot band's fan community) felt sorry for the two concerts' organisers for trying their best to come up with a solution for the band's unexpected absence.  VNS
HA NOI  A concert entitled Giai ieu Mua Xuan (Spring Melodies) will be held at 3.45pm on Sunday at Viet Nam National Museum of Fine Arts (VNFAM).

Under conductor Nguyen Khac Thanh, the concert features classical music including Mozart's Alla Turka; Strauss II's Voices of Spring and Albert Ketelbey's In a Persian Market.

Soprano Nguyen Bao Yen will sing popular opera arias such as Bizet's Carmen suite No1; Quando men vo - aria from Puccini's La Boheme; aria Mein Herr Marquis (Laughing Song) from Fledemaus opera by J. Strauss's and Gaetano Donizetti's Don Pasquale.

Born in 1990, Yen received a Ph.D in music in Ural Federal University, Russia. She won the first prize at the 16th International Culture, Art and Creative Festival in Tyumen City, Russia in 2017 and the second prize at Academia International Singing contest in Perm, Russia in 2014.

Her most recent award is the second prize at the 2023 National Opera - Choir Competition.

The concert is among a series held by the museum on the last Sunday of each month, according to the museum director Nguyen Anh Minh.

"Our series Music and Fine Arts in Harmony was successful and impressed the public. The concerts have been co-held by the museum and Viet Nam National Symphony Orchestra (VNSO) aiming at paying gratitude to museum visitors and popularising the museum to the public."

The concert will offer free entrance and end at 4.50pm.  VNS
HA NOI  Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son attended and delivered a speech at a seminar on Viet Nam-United States relations at Brookings Institute in Washington D.C. on March 26, within the framework of his official visit to the US to co-chair the first foreign ministerial-level dialogue between the two countries.

In his speech, Minister Son said that amidst latent traditional and non-traditional security challenges in the region, Viet Nam consistently implements its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation and development, multilateralisation and diversification of foreign relations, comprehensive and extensive international integration, and being a friend, a trusted partner and an active and responsible member of the international community.

In particular, the diplomat emphasised that Viet Nam continues its bamboo diplomacy school of "solid roots, strong trunks, flexible branches" to respond to challenges and maintain a favourable diplomatic environment for national development, which is clearly reflected in the fact that to date, Viet Nam has established a strategic partnership and comprehensive strategic partnership with all five permanent members of the UN Security Council.

He said to achieve its set development targets, in addition to its efforts, activeness and self-reliance, Viet Nam needs a peaceful, stable external environment and active cooperation and support from important partners, including the US. In that spirit, the minister affirmed that Viet Nam always considers the US as one of its most important partners.

To further deepen the Viet Nam-US comprehensive strategic partnership, Minister Son said that the two countries need to increase the exchange of high-level and all-level delegations; promote political trust; continue focusing on economic - trade - investment cooperation; boost collaboration in science, technology and innovation, including the semiconductor ecosystem; consolidate people-to-people exchanges, educational and cultural cooperation; and coordinate more closely at multilateral forums and cooperation mechanisms such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the United Nations, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, and the Mekong - US partnership.

Viet Nam will also continue to improve the business environment, and create favourable conditions for foreign enterprises to invest and do business in the country, he emphasised.

Receiving several advisors and assistants of the US Congress, Minister Son expressed his thanks to parliamentarians of both parties, notably Senators John McCain, John Kerry and Patrick Leahy, who always support Viet Nam and Viet Nam-US relations. He proposed the US Congress to maintain support for bilateral cooperation in various fields, including overcoming the consequences of war, economics, trade, education and training, science, technology, security, defence, and people-to-people exchanges.

The advisors and assistants appreciated Viet Nam's efforts to create a favourable environment for US businesses to invest in the country, implement international commitments to respond to climate change, especially in the Mekong Delta region, and ensure human rights.

They affirmed the support of the two political parties in the US Congress for bilateral relations as well as continued cooperation with Vietnam to contribute to further develop the bilateral ties in various fields in the spirit of the new relationship framework as well as in regional and international issues.

On this occasion, the Vietnamese foreign minister also received Jeffrey Goss, Associate Vice Provost/SE Asia at the Arizona State University, and had an online meeting with NVIDIA Vice President Keith Strier.

NVIDIA Vice President expressed strong admiration for Viet Nam's determination in developing high technology, AI, and semiconductors. Alongside commitments from CEO Jensen Huang, both parties will actively collaborate to transform Viet Nam into "NVIDIA's second home," particularly in technology and high-quality workforce training.

Keith Strier also affirmed that NVIDIA will push for the prompt implementation of specific collaboration plans with Viet Nam. VNS
HAVANA  The close-knit relationship between Cuba and Viet Nam, founded by President Ho Chi Minh and Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro and nurtured by the two countries generations of leaders and people, is a symbol of the era and of solidarity, said President of the National Assembly of People's Power of Cuba Esteban Lazo Hernandez.

During a reception in Havana on March 26 for the new Vietnamese Ambassador to Cuba Le Quang Long, Hernandez committed all possible support for the diplomat to fulfill tasks assigned by the Vietnamese Party and State.

He recounted significant milestones in the exceptionally rare relationship between the two countries, notably the Cuba visit by National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue in April 2023 that coincided with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the Committee for Solidarity with South Vietnam of Cuba, now the Cuba-Viet Nam Friendship Association; the 50th anniversary of leader Fidel Castro's first visit to Vietnam and the southern liberated zone, and the 63rd anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations (December 2).

According to him, Hue was the first foreign leader to visit Cuba after the countrys general election, and to address the Cuban legislature following the election of important State positions in line with the Constitution. This unprecedented event demonstrates the importance that the Cuban NA attaches to the Viet Nam-Cuba relationship, he said.

Long, for his part, affirmed that Viet Nam will never forget the invaluable support provided by the fraternal Cuban people during difficult times.

He highlighted Viet Nam's unwavering support for Cuba in its fight against the US blockade, its pursuit of socio-economic development and efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

Earlier, he submitted a copy of his credentials to Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Anayansi Rodriguez Camejo.  VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Minister of National Defence Sen. Lieut. Gen Hoang Xuan Chien received newly-appointed Cambodian Military Attache in Viet Nam Maj. Gen. Leang Sovannara in Ha Noi on Tuesday.

Chien expressed his delight at the results of bilateral defence cooperation over the past time, particularly in delegation exchanges, human resources training, border management and protection, and seeking and repatriation of remains of Vietnamese volunteers and experts who sacrificed in Cambodia during the war.

He spoke highly of the collaboration among the Ministries of National Defence of Viet Nam, Cambodia and Laos in successfully organising the first border defence friendship exchange programme in January 2023.

Chien expected that Leang Sovannara will closely coordinate with relevant units of the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence to continue effectively implementing cooperation contents between the two sides, especially on the exchange of delegations, training of human resources, and overcoming mine consequences after the war, participation in UN peacekeeping operations, and support each other at multilateral forums.

He also expressed his belief that Leang Sovannara will promote achieved results of his predecessor and make new contributions to further develop defence cooperation between the two nations.

For his part, Leang Sovannara expressed his pleasure at the good results of Viet Nam-Cambodia relations in general and bilateral defence cooperation in particular. He also affirmed that in his tenure, he will make efforts to contribute to the effective implementation of Viet Nam-Cambodia defence cooperation contents.  VNS
BANGKOK  Thai scholar Songrit Pongern has attributed Viet Nam's achievements, including the historic ien Bien Phu victory, to the enduring qualities embodied in Ho Chi Minh's ideology and the sound leadership of the Communist Party of Viet Nam.

During a recent conversation with a Vietnam News Agency reporter in Bangkok, Songrit said the ien Bien Phu victory had inspired and encouraged the fight for independence in colonised nations worldwide, with the model of solidarity displayed by Viet Nam, Laos and Cambodia which ultimately led to their triumph over superpowers like France and the US.

He said the shared ideology and destiny provide a powerful force for solidarity among the three neighbouring countries, helping them overcome the hardships of the prolonged war for national independence. The solidarity among the three countries has continued to today, evident in their shared stance on the international political stage and within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), including initiatives like the shared border economic zone.

Visiting ien Bien Phu in 1989 when Viet Nam marked the 35th anniversary of the ien Bien Phu victory and again in 1995 when Viet Nam joined ASEAN, Songrit expressed admiration for Viet Nam's sustained economic growth, noting that since economic reform began in 1986, Viet Nam's gross domestic product (GDP) has climbed to the third place in ASEAN.

He saw Viet Nam's skilled workforce as a major asset to attract foreign investment and believed that the country holds significant potential in both export production and meeting domestic demand.

Ultimately, he said Viet Nam's goal of becoming a developed, high-income nation by 2050 is achievable, stressing that the country's progress will be even more robust if it develops in tandem with all the countries in ASEAN, thus fostering a community of shared prosperity in the region. VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Wednesday hosted a reception for Thai Ambassador Nikorndej Balankura who came to bid farewell to the Vietnamese Government leader at the end of his tenure.

Congratulating the Thai diplomat on his successful tenure that helps develop the Viet Nam-Thailand Strategic Partnership over the past time, Chinh expressed his hope that Nikorndej Balankura, in his new position, will continue making contributions to the cooperation between the two nations.

The PM thanked the Thai side for renovating relic sites dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh in Thailand, handling legal issues for Vietnamese expatriates, and creating favourable conditions for the building of the Viet Nam town, the first of its kind in the world, in Thailand.

Viet Nam looks forwards to visits to Viet Nam by the Thai high-level leaders in the coming time, he said, urging the Thai sides coordination to make meticulous preparation for the Thai PMs official visit to Viet Nam and the 4th Viet Nam-Thailand Joint Cabinet Meeting to discuss measures bolstering the sound relations and robust cooperation in various fields.

He suggested both sides push ahead implementation of necessary solutions to realise the target of US$25 billion in trade revenue in a balanced fashion, stressing the Vietnamese Government encourages and facilitate Thai investment in the country.

Besides, he recommended both nations continue strengthen infrastructure connectivity, especially in transportation and e-commerce, as well as work together in climate change response, digital transformation, tourism and sports.

The two nations should continue coordination, give consultations and support each other at multilateral forums, maintain solidarity and promote ASEANs central roles, cooperate to develop the Mekong sub-region, and manage and sustainable use the water resources.

The Thai Ambassador, for his part, thanked competent agencies in Viet Nam for helping him complete his mission, and spoke highly of Viet Nam's achievements over the past time.

He affirmed that both nations hold huge cooperation potential, particularly in the field of trade and investment, adding Thailand wants to be a leading investor in Viet Nam.

Describing Viet Nam as his second homeland, he committed to continuing efforts to nurture the Viet Nam-Thailand relations.

In a decade, two-way trade revenue increased from US$10.4 billion in 2013 to nearly $19 billion in 2023. Particularly, the value reached $21.6 billion in 2022, exceeding the $20-billion-band mark for the first time.

Thailand ranks 9th among 144 countries and territories having investment in Viet Nam as it has registered $13.7 billion to 715 projects so far.  VNS
RIGA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- A diplomat working at the Russian Embassy in Latvia was declared persona non grata, the Latvian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Russian diplomat must leave Latvia by April 10 "over the unacceptable and provocative public communication pursued by the Embassy over an extended period," said the statement.

There has been no comment so far from Russia on the matter.

Ties between Latvia and Russia have deteriorated since 2022. In early 2023, both countries downgraded their diplomatic relations from ambassadorial level to charge d'affaires level and recalled their respective ambassadors. 
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Wednesday suggested Viet Nam and Canada maximise their potential, both bilaterally and multilaterally, to boost their development cooperation.

At a reception in Ha Noi for Canadian Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Mary Ng, who is leading a Canadian trade mission to Viet Nam, the PM said her visit has contributed to consolidating the comprehensive partnership between the two countries.

Mary Ng said the delegation comprises more than 250 people, including representatives from 200 leading Canadian businesses, noting the number demonstrates their interest in the Vietnamese market.

Both the host and guest noted with pleasure the intensive and extensive development of the comprehensive partnership across spheres.

Canada is Viet Nam's third largest trade partner in America, and Viet Nam is Canada's biggest trade partner in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Canada is also Viet Nam's 14th largest investor with more than 247 projects worth over US$4.82 billion.

Pointing to global challenges like epidemics, conflicts, climate change and population ageing, the PM called on Canada to further cooperate with Viet Nam to deal with them for the sake of both nations and their people, and for peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world at large.

He also expressed his belief that bilateral ties will grow further on the foundation consolidated over the past 50 years, and suggested the two countries continue their close coordination to increase all-level visit exchanges, bring into full play existing cooperation mechanisms and establish new ones in all fields.

For her part, Mary Ng informed Chinh about the outcomes of the second meeting of the Viet Nam-Canada Joint Economic Committee which opened the same day, saying the two sides agreed to advance the economic, trade and investment ties to a new height, and mobilise resources to implement the Political Declaration on establishing the Just Energy Transition Partnership.

Canada highly values Viet Nam's role in ASEAN, as well as Viet Nams and ASEANs role in its Indo-Pacific strategy, the minister said, expressing her hope that Viet Nam will work together with Canada to accelerate negotiations for the ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement and support the country as the rotating chair of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in 2024.

Her suggestions received support from PM Chinh, who affirmed that Viet Nam stands ready to help Canadian goods make deeper inroads into ASEAN.

Regarding international issues, the PM called on Canada to back Viet Nam's and ASEANs stance and viewpoints on the East Sea (known internationally as the South China Sea) issue, including those on ensuring safety and freedom of navigation and overflight, handling disputes by peaceful measures in line with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and supporting the effective and full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), and the building of a Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

Chinh asked Mary Ng to convey his wishes and regards to his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau, and his invitation to the PM to soon visit Viet Nam to elevate the relationship to a new height.  VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang expressed his hope that Viet Nam and the US will deepen cooperation across spheres, making it on par with their comprehensive strategic partnership, while receiving Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Chairwoman of the US Senate Committee on Armed Services Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, in Hanoi on Wednesday.

The Deputy PM said he believes that Gillibrands visit will contribute to enhancing mutual understanding and trust, and promoting the relations between the two countries and their legislatures.

Quang called on US congressmen to raise a strong voice so that the US government would soon recognise Viet Nam's market economy status.

The two sides shared the view on the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security and safety of navigation and overflight, and settling disputes by peaceful measures on the basis of international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The US delegation highly valued Viet Nam's stance on the East Sea (known internationally as the South China Sea) issue.

Gillibrand and other delegation members expressed their impressions of Viet Nam's outstanding development, and thanked the country for its supply of medical equipment during the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said the elevation of the bilateral relationship to the comprehensive strategic partnership on the occasion of the visit to Viet Nam by US President Joe Biden in September 2023 has created a good foundation for the relations to grow further in the time ahead.

The US wants to expand collaboration in various spheres, from economy, technology, energy and agriculture to new ones like artificial intelligence, she said.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam welcomes a resolution recently adopted by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that demands an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, Spokeswoman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang said on March 27.

She said Viet Nam calls on relevant sides to immediately implement Resolution 2728, approved by the UNSC on March 25, towards a long-term and sustainable ceasefire in the region, promoting humanitarian aid and protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure.

"Viet Nam supports all of the international communitys efforts in urging the parties to exercise restraint, hold dialogues and handle disagreements via peaceful means and based on respect for international law and related resolutions of the UNSC so as to achieve a fair, satisfactory and lasting solution to the peace process in the Middle East," she stressed.

The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip from ongoing Israeli attacks has reached upwards of 32,000, while the toll on Israel side were 1,200 fatalities, since Israel-Hamas conflict broke out on Oct 7, 2023.  VNS
HA NOI  After more than 20 years of being involved in leprosy prevention, Associate Professor Le Huu Doanh still vividly remembers the arduous days when he and his colleagues went to remote mountains and forests to search for leprosy pathogens in the community.

Doanh, who is Director of the National Hospital of Dermatology and Venereology (NHDV), said that despite difficulties, the doctors had gone from the northwestern mountains to the Central Highlands, then to HCM City to investigate leprosy epidemiology with the goal of early detection and timely treatment, minimising disability for leprosy patients.

"We prepared medical equipment and medicines, thinking we had enough for an epidemiological investigation trip. But we didn't expect there would be so many leprosy patients. Hundreds or even thousands of new patients were discovered in a year," said Doanh.

Medical staff had to go to every village to examine patients, even if they were just suspected cases. They could not ignore these cases, because they would not return until months later. Suspected cases could become deformed lepers with disabilities for the rest of their lives.

There were also tragic cases when the leprosy patient was the only person left in the family. Without relatives, they could not take care of themselves and could only survive day by day. Life was a torment of illness and lack of everything. Medical staff had to take patients to the leprosy treatment stations to receive comprehensive care, he said.

Strategy

For a long time, leprosy was considered an incurable disease.

People with this disease were discriminated against and shunned because of severe disabling deformities in their arms and legs.

The National Leprosy Prevention Programme starting in 1995 has greatly changed the community's awareness of this disease.

People are no longer afraid of or discriminate against leprosy patients.

The misconception about leprosy is no longer as serious as before.

When people suspect they have leprosy, they go to a medical facility for treatment instead of hiding their illness like before.

Viet Nam has met the World Health Organisation (WHO) leprosy elimination standards since 1995, with a prevalence rate of 0.9 patients per 10,000 people.

The United Nations General Assembly also recognised Viet Nam as a leading country in the Pacific region in leprosy prevention.

Over the past years, the national anti-leprosy programme has achieved many positive results.

The rate of leprosy patients is decreasing and the disease is no longer a public health problem.

However, even assuming the leprosy epidemic continues to be steadily reduced year by year, experts predict that it will still take nearly 40 years to eliminate it.

To shorten this period, Doanh said that this year, the leprosy prevention programme would launch a new strategy that would have a stronger impact.

It is expected that in about 30 years there will be no more leprosy patients, through strong interventions in the community, especially among those in contact with leprosy patients.

"Currently, there is no preventive treatment in the strategy, but only early detection and treatment for patients. This year, we will promote examination and medicine distribution for prevention, said Doanh.

People who have contact with leprosy patients will have one dose and then they will have minimal risk of contracting the disease.

This will help quickly reduce the number of new leprosy patients in the community.

Hopefully in the near future, there will be no germs of leprosy bacteria living, growing or spreading in Viet Nam," he said.

Improve patients quality of life

Last year was the first year that the NHDV implemented a free-of-charge surgery programme for 30 disabled leprosy patients in northern provinces.

It was one of numerous activities to support diagnosis, treatment and care for people with leprosy and severe skin diseases since 1990, funded by the Viet Nam  Switzerland Anti-Leprosy Association.

This is a meaningful humanitarian effort to improve the quality of life for disabled leprosy patients, helping them integrate into society more easily.

As one of the first disabled leprosy patients to receive surgery, ang Thi L., 64, from Chuong My District in Ha Noi, felt emotional thanking the doctors and nurses who helped her.

L. has been treated at the Quoc Oai Leprosy Treatment Station, now called NHDV Branch 3, since 1999.

For about 10 years, she had ulcers on her right foot.

Recently, the lesions have become larger.

Doctors diagnosed her with squamous cell carcinoma, which is a consequence of leprosy.

L. was sponsored by the project for treatment costs, cancer lesion removal, food and travel expenses.

After surgery, L.'s health recovered well.

Another case is Nguyen Van B.,49, from Tan Kim Commune, Phu Binh District, Thai Nguyen northern province.

He was admitted to the NHDV at the end of February last year.

He has been treated at the Phu Binh Leprosy Treatment Station in Thai Nguyen Province.

B. had his left leg amputated in 1998 due to a foot ulcer.

Recently, he had an ulcer on his right foot. Over the past year, the damage has progressed rapidly and the warts have spread.

Now he has received surgery to remove the cancerous lesion. After surgery, his health recovered quickly.

Doanh said that this year, the humanitarian project would continue to treat about 50 disabled leprosy patients with free surgical support.  VNS
YEN BAI  As a global leader in healthcare, Bayer has made efforts to foster collaboration with relevant stakeholders to improve community healthcare in Viet Nam.

It has joined forces with the Vietnam Young Physicians Association (VYPA) to increase healthcare access for underserved communities in Viet Nam.

On March 22 Bayer Vietnam sponsored 500,000 boxes of multi-vitamin supplements in the form of effervescent tablets to the VYPA's humanitarian medical campaign. The tablets will reach individuals in need across 49 provinces, especially those facing financial hardship or limited healthcare access in remote areas.

Over the past three decades Bayer has been committed to helping the local community improve health and living conditions.

To facilitate this, the company has formed partnerships with key stakeholders to bring its innovative medicines to millions of Vietnamese.

Notably, it has closely cooperated with the Ministry of Health to carry out the Patient Support Programme.

The programme aims to make high-quality nutrition more accessible for underserved communities nationwide, and ensures that those most in need can access vital supplements for their health and well-being, fostering equitable healthcare for all.

Through the Patient Support Programme, Bayer has delivered nearly two million boxes of multivitamin supplements to vulnerable groups in Viet Nam, through partner organisations that conduct medical screening and treatment.

The programme began in December 2023, and more than 1,700 boxes have been provided so far to healthcare centres in 12 provinces.

Tran Thi Lan Huong, medical director of Bayer Vietnam, said: "This year marks our 30th anniversary of operating in Viet Nam. For three decades, Bayer has been committed to partnering with local organisations that share our vision of improving community health, especially for those facing challenges accessing care.

"We are honored to support the work of the Vietnam Young Physicians Association. This initiative is a meaningful way for us to celebrate Bayer Vietnams anniversary by demonstrating our long-term dedication to delivering patient-centered healthcare solutions.

It moves us closer to realising our global missiona future where health for all, hunger for none."

Commenting on Bayer's generous support, Dr Ha Anh uc, president of the Vietnam Young Physicians Association, said: With the guiding principle of 'Where there are young doctors, there will be humanitarian medical initiatives for the community,' the Vietnam Young Physicians Association has stayed committed to providing humanitarian medical care programmes to underserved populations.

We are grateful for partners like Bayer who share our vision of elevating health standards and quality of life for people nationwide.

"Bayer's contribution provides us with additional resources to expand and enhance the reach and impact of our activities, facilitating earlier illness detection and treatment, raising health awareness, encouraging a healthy lifestyle, and emphasising the importance of self-care practices.

It is clear that collaboration in healthcare will remain a cornerstone of Bayer's progress.

Bayer's community healthcare efforts are particularly helpful in the context of Viet Nam's continuously evolving healthcare landscape.  VNS
HCM CITY  Recent investigations have exposed a web of illicit drug transactions related to the flight attendants' drug case amounting to more than VN25 trillion (US$1 billion).

That was the remark by Major General Mai Hoang, deputy director of the HCM City's Police Department, at a meeting on crime-fighting on Wednesday.

He said HCM City had witnessed a sharp rise in drug-related crimes recently. In the first three months of 2024, police discovered 813 cases involving 2,019 offenders, twice as high as the same period last year.

In the case involving four flight attendants smuggling drugs from France to Viet Nam, the police dismantled 180 related networks and prosecuted 543 suspects, seizing 212kg of drugs and 10 firearms.

"The police have established evidence linking the detained individuals to drug transactions amounting to more than VN25 trillion," said Hoang.

Regarding criminals increasingly exploiting online platforms for drug deals, Hoang said the police were taking measures targeting both the supply and the demand sides to curb the crime.

The major general also said the police had submitted files recommending the prosecution of 254 suspects related to vehicle registration irregularities in the city.

He highlighted certain limitations in fighting certain types of crimes. He said the crimes had decreased in cases but the reduction was not solid.

He also said the number of fires had been reduced, but the city still witnessed big fires causing severe damage to people and property.  VNS
HA NOI  Many National Assembly deputies supported the plan to absolutely ban driving with any detectable alcohol level.

The full-time deputies discussed the draft Law on Road Traffic Order and Safety in a meeting on Wednesday.

The law project was first discussed at the 6th session and will be submitted to the National Assembly (NA) for consideration and approval at the next session.

One of the contents that has drawn different opinions is whether to absolutely ban driving with any detectable alcohol concentration in blood and breathe, or to stipulate a certain allowable level of alcohol concentration before being fined.

Therefore, the Standing Committee of National Defence and Security designed two options to submit to the NA Standing Committee (NASC). One is a total ban on vehicle operation with any positive level of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and the other is to allow motorbike control for drivers whose BAC is less than 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood, or 0.25 milligrams per 1 litre of breath.

But the Standing Committee of National Defence and Security supported the first option.

Deputy Nguyen Minh Tam of Quang Ngai Provinces delegation also agreed with the plan to absolutely ban alcohol while driving, although admitting that this regulation would certainly impact a number of issues such as people's culture, and budget revenue from alcohol and beer.

Deputy Nguyen ai Thang of Hung Yen Provinces delegation said that during the first group discussion on this law project, he suggested considering the need to regulate thresholds when handling violations of alcohol concentration, but after comprehensive research on the advantages and disadvantages between the two approaches, he supported the absolute ban on alcohol concentration while driving.

Drivers who drink alcohol need to be strictly punished so as to gradually form a culture of don't drive if you drink alcohol, said Thang.

Thai Thi An Chung, a deputy of Nghe An Provinces delegation, also supported the absolute ban on alcohol while driving and noted that the recent enforcement campaign has raised people's awareness.

According to the deputy, the absolute ban on alcohol concentration in blood and breath will have an impact on economic development, but this regulation needs to be implemented for at least five more years to change the habit of using alcohol when participating in traffic, then reviewed and evaluated whether to apply the second option or not.

From another perspective, also supporting the first option, delegate Ly Thi Lan of Ha Giang Provinces delegation proposed to review and consider appropriate levels of penalties and punishments.

There must be a step-by-step roadmap over time to create awareness and culture when participating in traffic, she suggested.

Authorities should avoid abusing regulations to conduct rampant alcohol checks that cause people to resent the authorities.

The deputy cited that recently on social networks, there were many images that during the Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday, police went into poor rural areas checking alcohol levels and punish people.

"This caused offense, so we need to consider fines and be more flexible," Ly said.

Deputy Pham Van Hoa from ong Thap Province had a different opinion.

He supported the plan to continue for drivers of cars, tractors and specialised motorbikes. But for motorcycles, it will apply a minimum threshold of 50 mg per 100ml of blood or 0.25 mg per one litre of breathing air.

The deputy suggested accepting a certain threshold of alcohol concentration, because a complete ban is hardly feasible.

Because in fact, there are cases drivers used alcoholic drinks the night before and the next morning there was still a small residual alcohol concentration in the blood/breath, but it did not affect the ability to safely drive a vehicle, so punishment is not reasonable, he said.

Therefore, he asked the NA and health authorities to consider the issue.  VNS
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At the Noi Bai international airport (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi - The Ministry of Transport has asked carriers to develop aircraft fleet operation plans to meet the rising travel demand for the upcoming national holidays and summer peak.

In a document sent to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), the ministry said that the restructuring of some airlines fleet and flight networks, coupled with the recall of PW1100 engines by Pratt & Whitney for repair, have affected the load on both international and domestic flight routes, causing difficulties to passengers in terms of prices and schedules.



Statistics showed that the aircraft fleet in operation in Vietnam has been reduced by 25%, from 223 in 2023 to 173 in the first quarter of this year.



The request is raised in the context that the upcoming national holidays of South Vietnam Liberation Day on April 30 and Labour Day on May 1, and summer holidays, will push up air travel demand.



Accordingly, airlines must develop aircraft fleet operation plans to meet the demand as well as raise solutions to reduce flight cancellations or delays and improve service quality.



The ministry asked the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam to enhance supervision over the air transportation services, ticket listings and sales to prevent illegal increases in air tickets. Any violations must be promptly handled.



In addition, flight operation plans and adjustments must be made public so that passengers can be active with their travel plans.



Pratt & Whitneys recall of its PW1100 engines affects several Airbus A321 NEO operated by Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet, meaning that these planes will be grounded in 2024 and 2025.



According to Vietnam Airlines General Director Le Hong Ha, the shortage of aircrafts caused by engine repair and maintenance poses significant difficulties to airlines in 2024.



The problem is that it takes up to 250-300 days for maintenance of an engine, compared to the previous average maintenance time of 100-120 days due to the disruption in supply chains.



Vietnam Airlines currently operates around 60 A321, 12 of which must be grounded for the engine maintenance.



Other airlines are struggling with restructuring.



Starting from March 18, Pacific Airlines (part of the Vietnam Airlines Group) suspends flight operations to restructure its fleet and flight network in an effort to ensure operational efficiency. After returning the aircrafts to clear debt, the airline will not operate any aircraft but rent from Vietnam Airlines.



Bamboo Airways is also undergoing a major restructuring. It has been shutting down all international flight routes and low-performing domestic routes since the end of last year, including routes from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to Con Dao starting from April.



Bamboo reached an agreement to terminate a lease contract on three Embraer E190 jets, narrow-body aircraft accommodating up to 114 passengers, by the end of March. The aircraft fleet of Bamboo will be reduced from the peak of 30 to only 8 from April 2024.



The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam said that the reduction in the number of aircraft in operation would affect the air transport load this year.



The authority asked air carriers to have plans to make up for the shortage of jets, especially in peak periods such as summer holidays.



Airlines must announce adjustments of flight schedules daily and keep passengers updated.

Top 10 most welcoming cities in Vietnam 2024 Hoi An, Phong Nha and Ninh Binh have been named the top 3 most welcoming cities in Vietnam by the 12th annual Traveller Review Awards.

Hotel market believes in recovery for 2024 With impressive growth in tourist arrivals, many hotels and resorts believe that the accommodation industry will return to its peak this year.

Provinces tourism can break through With much potential for tourism development, Quang Nam province is to offer solutions to improve quality and become an even more attractive destination for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Nguyen Van Long, Independent legal counsel ALTAS Law

In recent years, heightened geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties globally have necessitated a reevaluation of supply chain dynamics. A compromise solution termed friend-shoring has emerged, denoting the relocation of supply chain activities to amicable jurisdictions, aiming to harness the benefits of globalisation while mitigating production disruptions arising from unfavourable geopolitical climates.

The US CHIPS and Science Act was established in 2022, providing $52.7 billion for semiconductor research, manufacturing, and workforce development. $500 billion has been earmarked for improving semiconductor training, cybersecurity, and business climates globally.

This is anticipated to catalyse substantial private investment in the sector, amounting to hundreds of billions of US dollars across the United States. Currently, priority industries have shifted towards allied nations of the US, encompassing sectors in which Vietnam stands to participate or leverage advantages, notably in semiconductors, electronics, AI, healthcare, energy, power source development, green mobility, infrastructure development, and logistics.

The US is prepared to invest funds into Vietnams chip sector to shore up supply chains and wants Vietnam to take advantage of its bid to reduce reliance on China.

The establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and the US was realised, underscoring Vietnams status as a primary beneficiary of the US CHIPS and Science Act. On March 18-21, 50 enterprises from the US visited Vietnam to conduct market research and expand investment opportunities. This marks the second consecutive year that Vietnam has welcomed a large delegation of US enterprises to explore investment opportunities and expand their market presence.

To capitalise on the provisions of the new legislation, Vietnam has resolved to promulgate Decree No.10/2024/ND-CP, delineating regulations pertaining to high-tech zones. This decree complements existing legislation on high-tech, with a principal focus on fostering investment opportunities within Vietnam.

These regulations are devised to invigorate Vietnams economy in the forthcoming years, featuring notable policies and incentives.

Projects within high-tech zones shall benefit from preferential credit loan schemes, prioritising access to state investment credit, legal forms of capital mobilisation, and utilisation of supportive financial resources such as official development assistance and preferential credit capital.

Tax incentives, land-related regulations, and expeditious administrative processes facilitated by an autonomous one-stop agency at the high-tech park management board aim to draw in investment capital domestically and abroad.

Key policies include incentives for infrastructure investment, land clearance and reimbursement in compliance with land rent regulations, and allocation of resources to support high-tech research and development projects, high-tech business incubation, and training of high-tech human resources.

The decree stipulates that the state encourages organisations and individuals with sufficient experience and capacity to participate in the investment, construction, and operation of high-technology infrastructure, including investing in and operating the entire technical infrastructure system of high-technology zones or a part thereof, as regulated in Article 23 of Decree 10.

These encompass investment support, import-export tax exemptions, and streamlined customs procedures. Additionally, eligible enterprises shall enjoy tax and customs incentives akin to export processing enterprises in industrial zones (IZs) and economic zones, as stipulated by pertinent legislation.

Indeed, Vietnam offers myriad promising investment prospects for investors in the semiconductor industry. Notably, Nvidia seeks to establish a substantial presence in the country with a $250 million investment.

In 2023, ALTAS effectively represented and advised a prominent foreign manufacturer of printed circuit boards in a significant investment project valued at $260 million for phase 1 in Chau Duc IZ in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau.

Additionally, the investor acquired a factory concession in Dong Nai province from Fujitsu Group with a transaction value of up to $300 million. The law firm has also participated in and represented negotiations for projects in the northern provinces of Bac Ninh and Bac Giang for semiconductor products, with a total capital of tens of millions of US dollars. This brings their total investment capital in Vietnam to $560 million, marking a significant milestone for their presence in Vietnam, with potential for further growth.

The issuance of Decree 10 signifies a concerted effort to capitalise on evolving investment trends. This initiative endeavours to cultivate an enabling environment conducive to the shifting dynamics of the international investment landscape, fostering economic innovation within the country.

Colin Blackwell, head, Human Resources Working Group, VBF For Vietnam to become a first world country as planned, the Vietnamese must become a first world workforce. This has to involve international skills transfer and effective education. International skills transfer has to involve an element of foreign specialists coming to Vietnam to transfer their high tech and other skills. We absolutely agree and respect that Vietnam must be very careful in managing this process to ensure that only the most appropriate foreigners are allowed to obtain work permits. Vietnams continued advances in sustainability and innovation will require bringing international expertise into the country. Effective work permit procedures are an important element of assisting this. The business community would recommend some suggested steps that would help with work permits, which include easing the application time burden of administrative procedures, clarifying some of the wording of relevant decrees, and accelerating progress on digital applications. Processes should be clearer when applying for work permits directly from the ministry and we proposed mechanism applicable for permit sponsors when changing foreign labour management authority from provincial departments of labour, invalids and social affairs to the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs. For instance, consider a scenario where a company abroad sells a high-tech product to a company in Vietnam and needs to send personnel for its installation, a process that may extend beyond 30 days. Under current regulations, the host entity in Vietnam is required to publish a job posting, wait for two weeks before submitting a foreign labour request for the role, and then wait another two weeks for approval before submitting a permit application. This process may not align with the needs of certain activities. Thus, we recommend the creation and implementation of a short-term work permit tailored for work missions lasting less than six months, exempt from the job posting and foreign labour demand requirements. The current process for preparing the necessary documents for a work permit, which must be duly notarised and legalised, is already sufficiently complex and time-consuming. Introducing a streamlined approach for short-term work permits would greatly enhance efficiency and flexibility for both businesses and foreign workers. Dr. Quan Le, senior lecturer Fulbright University Vietnam The semiconductor workforce in Vietnam has recently seen the introduction of chip-focused training programmes. However, human resources in electronics, embedded systems, and robotics are all suited to work in the semiconductor industry after additional short courses to supplement related knowledge. The major weakness of the current workforce lies in the lack of comprehensive experience in the entire chip design process, from design to sending for production. To address this weakness, there is a need for investment in professional simulation tools, funding for manufacturing test chips, and also modern laboratory systems for chip testing. For the foreseeable future, Fulbright University Vietnam plans to collaborate with both domestic and international universities and postgraduate institutions. Together, we aim to launch training programmes to enhance the capabilities of graduates who have completed relevant bachelors degrees, making them qualified to work in the semiconductor industry in Vietnam as well as participate in the global labour market.

Semiconductor development surge keenly anticipated Vietnam will look to build on its semiconductor diplomacy with the formulation of a strategy on developing the much-needed products.

Consistency required for developing chip industry The Vietnamese government is now paying more attention to promoting research and development (R&D) and developing the semiconductor chip industry. However, to achieve this, depends on many factors, of which R&D, human resources, and others are critical.

Bac Giang makes its play for investment in semiconductors Vietnam is hoping to emerge as a top market for semiconductor production. Luong Van Nghiep, deputy director of Bac Giang Department of Planning and Investment, told VIRs Minh Oanh about the northern provinces potential and its strategies to draw in foreign investors in the sector.

High-tech capital influx expected More incentives for investors as part of a freshly enacted decree are expected to help draw more projects into high-tech parks, including in semiconductors.
What do you think are the key nutritional challenges of Vietnam?

President of FrieslandCampina Asia, Corine Tap

Vietnam has considered food security, defined as accessibility and affordability of food, a national priority for decades, resulting in greatly increased food availability and affordability, and contributing to Vietnams overall progress in improving its populations health and wellbeing.

However, Stunting or chronic malnutrition remains a key concern, as Vietnam is among 34 countries globally facing the highest burden. It is home to 1.8 million children under-5 who suffer from the condition and are at risk of permanent physical and brain damage. It shows that Vietnams nutritional security - access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food that enables people to live a healthy life - has not benefitted the country equally.

The recently completed Southeast Asia Nutrition Survey (SEANUTS II), a study of nearly 14,000 children, aged six months to 12 years that we conducted in collaboration with universities and institutions in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, highlights an important issue known as the Triple Burden of malnutrition. This is the coexistence of undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and overweight/obesity.

The study shows that stunting and anaemia affect 10 per cent and 24 per cent of children, respectively). Being 'Overweight and Obesity' affects over 30 per cent of children aged 712 years. Calcium and Vitamin D deficiency occurs in over 70 per cent of children aged 0.5-12 years in Vietnam. This Triple Burden is clear evidence of nutritional insecurity, and makes it a matter of great importance to fill nutritional gaps with proper nutrition interventions and nutrition.

What are the solutions that both government and businesses should and can provide to improve nutritional security?

In the National Nutrition Strategy 2020-2030 and beyond, Vietnam set the ambition that by 2045 every citizen will achieve their optimal nutritional security, and all nutrition-related non-communicable diseases will be under total control.

To improve nutritional security, I think policymakers and businesses should focus on the following two critical tasks: Accessibility and availability of affordable nutritious products and a whole-of-society approach requiring stronger collaboration among governments, non-governmental organisations, businesses and society.

As I understand, these angles are also in alignment with the key tasks that Vietnams National Nutrition Strategy has urged relevant government agencies to implement, namely enhancing nutrition education and communication, including among school children; and enhancing inter-agency collaboration for better results; and enhancing nutrition interventions including improving quality of meals, ensuring food security and nutritional security.

How can FrieslandCampina in Vietnam help in this regard?

To achieve this goal, we have been focusing on technical and scientific collaboration with relevant Vietnamese agencies in the area of dairy and nutrition. The SEANUTS study that I mentioned earlier is an example of this.

Secondly, technical assistance to produce the best quality milk. Our Dairy Development programme established since 1990s in Vietnam has worked and engaged with over 2,500 dairy farms across the countries, and provided technical training and assistance to many farms. This investment not only helps local dairy farms produce better milk quality, as good as our global Dutch quality standards, but also contributes to higher incomes and better livelihoods.

Thirdly, real nutrition accessible to and affordable for every Vietnamese. As mentioned, the triple nutrition burdens make it a matter of great importance to fill nutritional gaps for Vietnamese generations, and dairy is a part of the solution.

We have been proudly serving Vietnamese consumers for over 27 years, and commit to offering a wide range of choices of real nutrition, in which the new Dutch Lady 180ml pack offers a high value of nutrition at the most affordable price, and is accessible for every Vietnamese.

Finally, nutritional education: under the strategic partnership with the Vietnam Ministry of Education and Training, we have developed a digital curriculum on nutrition education, which equips millions of primary students with the fundamental understanding about nutrition and the importance of real milk.

We also invest in mass communication to raise awareness among Vietnamese mums of the benefits of real nutrition to help them develop good nutrition consumption habits, needed for the childrens long-term development.

What difficulties do you foresee during such a journey?

Vietnam has set the right ambition and actions for its nutrition strategy and vision. The most important task now is to quickly implement it on a larger scale for greater impact. That will require all relevant stakeholders in Vietnam  the government, nutrition businesses, and communities - to accelerate collaboration so that Vietnamese people, especially younger ones, can have access to good quality nutrition needed for physical and mental development for generations to come.

As a CEO with a busy schedule, how do you maintain a balanced nutrition regime?

I love my job, but I am also a mother of four. Therefore, work and life balance is very important to me. I have no special nutrition secrets. As I work for a nutrition and dairy company, milk is something I cant do without. I also love cheese, which is a good source of protein for maintaining your muscle mass. Also, regular exercise for one to two hours helps as well. I aim for a balanced nutrition and exercise lifestyle, in harmony with my work schedule, as it is good for my physical and mental wellbeing.

FrieslandCampina Vietnam to cut down environmental impact FrieslandCampina Vietnam is set to reduce CO 2 emissions by 40 per cent by 2030 in all production and supply activities, along with 33 per cent from partnered dairy cow farms.

FrieslandCampina Vietnam listed as business with sustainable development FrieslandCampina Vietnam, which possesses famous brand names Dutch Lady, Friso, Yomost, and Fristi has won a titled Sustainable Business in 2022, standing in the top 10 enterprises in Vietnam with this accolade.

FrieslandCampina launches FrieslandCampina Professional One of the worlds largest dairy cooperatives, FrieslandCampina, has introduced FrieslandCampina Professional  a high-quality food solution portfolio in Vietnam  within the framework of the international food expo Vietnam Foodtech that is taking place in Ho Chi Minh City from December 7 to 10.

FrieslandCampina steadfast in nourishing a better planet Dutch-backed FrieslandCampina is pursuing sustainable development as one of its key drivers to success in Vietnam, with its own sustainability strategy embracing four key priorities.
Quang Lang, a former overseas Vietnamese person, or Viet Kieu, from Australia, moved back to his homeland in 2021 and is now living with relatives after more than two years renting a serviced apartment in Thu Duc of Ho Chi Minh City, due to the increased rent.

New land law could entice Viet Kieu home, illustration photo

However, Lang said he is encouraged by new laws that will enable people like him to be able to buy a house in Vietnam. This is a prerequisite to being able to keep overseas Vietnamese staying and contributing to the homeland, Lang said.

Lang, who is 65 years old this year, said that his wife and several cousins are also planning to return to Vietnam to live after many years away from home, and having the right to own real estate in Vietnam would be a great way to encourage them.

Troy Griffiths, deputy managing director of Savills Vietnam, said that he has cooperated with many Vietnamese living abroad.

One of the main points is that many of them are older now. These may be people who have migrated abroad, after many years of hard work, and now own certain assets and capital and are considering investing back in Vietnam, Griffiths said.

He added that Vietnamese people often highly appreciate the family values not found elsewhere, and often seek a way to come home.

They not only bring capital but also highly specialised skills that can be transferred to Vietnam, Griffiths said. Therefore, this is a very welcome move by the government, and hopefully it will open up more sources of capital and intelligence for the country.

Griffiths took an example of the New Turing Institute and VinAi, in which a team of doctors have returned to Vietnam and are now using their knowledge to help the country develop.

The expansion of land use rights for Vietnamese residing abroad in the revised Land Law is good news for the Viet Kieu community who wish to own real estate in Vietnam.

This follows remittance flows in 2023 reaching more than $16 billion, a sharp increase of 32 per cent compared to 2022.

In the Land Law effective from 2025, the expanding land use rights for overseas Vietnamese was one of the highlighted items. Specifically, the article on land users stipulates that they are allocated land, leased land, and have land use rights recognised by the state; or are using land and are eligible for land use certificates and ownership of assets attached to land, but have not yet been granted a certificate by the state. This includes domestic individuals, Vietnamese people residing abroad who are Vietnamese citizens, and people of Vietnamese origin residing abroad.

Along with this, the new Law on Real Estate Business also amends the regulation that Vietnamese people residing abroad are Vietnamese citizens and have rights and obligations related to land like domestic citizens. This in effect means Viet Kieu can do real estate business similarly to domestic citizens.

Thus, overseas Vietnamese will be able to invest in building houses and construction projects for sale, lease, or lease purchase; and invest in technical infrastructure of real estate projects to transfer, lease, or sublease land use rights that already have such infrastructure.

Statistics from the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese show that more than $200 billion of remittances have entered Vietnam since records began in 1993, nearly equal to the amount of foreign direct investment garnered in the same period. Most remittances come from Asian countries through workers, and experts say much of this money has flowed into real estate. In 2016 this was deemed to be as much as 20 per cent, according to the Central Institute for Economic Management.

Peter Hong, an overseas Vietnamese in Canada and president of the Overseas Vietnamese Businessmen Association, emphasised that new laws can play an important part in paving the way for the real estate market.

Many overseas Vietnamese shared with me that they wanted to return to Vietnam to live but did not know where to buy real estate, at what price, and how to own it. Many of them have worked abroad for decades, depositing money in banks without interest, and even having to pay fees when coming here, so they want to return to Vietnam to invest and buy real estate. The law amendments are reasonable so that overseas Vietnamese can feel secure when returning to Vietnam to live, Hong emphasised.

There are about 5.5 million Vietnamese people abroad and more than one million generations whose parents or grandparents are Vietnamese, Hong noted.

Of these, more than 20 per cent are coming into retirement age. Many of those want to return home to live and invest in their later years, he said.

Nguyen Van Hau, vice chairman Ho Chi Minh City Bar Association Regulations in the revised Land Law, along with the laws on Housing and Real Estate Business, will bring better conditions for overseas Vietnamese to invest in and buy housing in Vietnam. The new regulations in the Land Law will also create conditions to enable overseas Vietnamese to prove their origin more simply, thereby attracting more remittances to flow into the countrys real estate market. Previously, many investors were confused about whether their projects were allowed to be sold to overseas Vietnamese or not, as approval was needed by competent bodies. Now the clear regulations in the Land Law will be the premise for the government to guide judicial agencies to make all of these issues easier to implement. New regulations can draw in more remittances to flow into Vietnamese real estate amid a market that remains difficult. Nguyen Quoc Bao, chairman Vietnam Real Estate Club The demand to own a house among overseas Vietnamese and foreigners in Vietnam is large. If the procedures and conditions for buying and selling are made easier, there will be opportunities for high-end residential real estate with high inventory, creating great momentum for the Vietnamese real estate market. If there is a problem with the current 50-year limit on homeownership, the state can amend the law to lower the limit for foreigners and overseas Vietnamese to maybe 30-40 years. If overseas Vietnamese buy a house for 30 years, the selling price and taxes are the same as domestic Vietnamese people. If they buy a house for 40-50 years, the selling price and taxes should be higher. In Singapore, foreigners only need to set up a business in the country and pay taxes for one year to have the right to buy a house. Recently, this country has also allowed foreigners to buy second properties. Overseas Vietnamese who want to return to their homeland are typically intellectuals and businessmen who would like to invest in the country, and they have enough finance to buy a house. Therefore, state regulations should create improvements for them to buy houses in Vietnam, which will increase the source of remittances and create an environment to attract more foreign direct investment.

Land law overhaul transforms land acquisition Senior partner Duyen Ha Vo and senior associate Tram Dang of VILAF explore the potential implications of upcoming changes on land acquisitions of developers engaged in real estate, energy, and infrastructure projects.
Ko Tae Yeon, general director of Heesung Electronics Vietnam

You have lived and worked in Vietnam for 14 years and help set up LG Electronics before moving onto Heesung Electronics, which is supplier for LG Display. What factors impress you in Vietnams investment environment?

Heesung Electronics Vietnam officially started operations in 2018. Our company is a South Korean-invested business and specialises in manufacturing audiovisual products for cars and back covers for OLED televisions.

As many investors will tell you, Vietnam is a strong location place, not just geographically or geopolitically. The government takes part in many activities to promote free trade agreements with many countries. Vietnam is the number one in Asia countries in terms of number of such agreements.

The domestic market also has big potential in terms of the population and the younger generation specifically.

In the case of the northern port city of Haiphong where we are based, foreign-invested enterprises investing in this city mainly export via sea and not by air. So, one clear comparison is that Samsung is in the northern province of Bac Ninh and LG is in Haiphong.

At Samsung, its main product is mobile phones so it needs to be located closer to an airport. Meanwhile, LGs main products in previous times were washing machines and televisions, and now car components, which are mainly exported by sea.

Haiphong has a complete logistics system, thus many exporters are coming to this city. Along with the convenient seaport system, the citys leaders also pay attention to promotion activity to attract foreign investors.

How much time did your company take to select Vietnam as the best place to set up the facility, and what are Heesung Electronics plans to expand its operation in Vietnam?

I was the leader of the Heesung Electronics project and we took more than a year to select the country at first. At the time, we analysed the pros and cons of Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and Myanmar. We compared the population, government policy, business environment, and infrastructure, and then it was obvious that Vietnam was the place to be. And I know that many other foreign-led businesses like ours are doing that kind of feasibility study currently.

In terms of expansions, we cannot share too much at this time as we are still in negotiations, but many manufacturing bases are moving from China to Vietnam and the trend will continue. So I think many opportunities will be here, and our company is still trying to expand them more. In the short term, we can commit to investing more in Haiphong.

How can Vietnam attract more high-tech investors?

Vietnam has plans to engage many investors but has yet to offer enough attractive incentive programmes. The government has to very seriously consider this, especially nowadays because of the global minimum tax issue.

The South Korean government offers a tax incentive programme for enterprises if they are training workers. The Vietnamese government has emphasised the importance of training activities, especially for young students, but the mechanism has yet to be strong enough. Government policies in general are okay, but in detail, the government should pay more attention to specific activities.

Can you share any detailed proposals in this vein?

The government must pay attention to supporting young engineers. It should support the universities that are trying to recruit and train engineers, for example giving four-year scholarships to engineers. Training and education needs to have a long-term vision. Especially, Vietnam should focus on supporting students who are studying hard to give them have opportunity to study even more.

I see that many Vietnamese youngsters would like to work in the customs, police, and military. Unfortunately, this situation will not contribute to helping the country promote the manufacturing sector and pull in enough high-tech capital. The young generation should be encouraged to look into business more. Vietnams future fully depends on the young generation, so if they do not have a global mindset and economic knowledge, how can they make the manufacturing industry grow?

Meanwhile, many say that foreign-invested companies do not share enough in terms of technology, which is not correct. If Vietnamese engineers understand fully, they can more easily receive and embrace tech transfer. Many foreign investors want to offer this, but not enough engineers can take it on.

In addition to education being crucial, the government should continue to reform policies and complete the infrastructure to help foreign investors in putting capital into the country.

Hyosung Group unveils $720 million investment in Vietnam Hyosung Group, a South Korean industrial conglomerate, has announced plans to invest $720 million in a biotech fiber manufacturing plant in Vietnam.

South Korean giants expand investment in high-tech sphere South Korean groups are seeking to reinforce their footprints in a wide range of green and high-tech ventures in Vietnam.
A McKinsey & Company report estimates that up to 800 million jobs globally could be lost to automation by 2030, with another 375 million needing to change occupations entirely.

Vietnam, with its rapidly growing economy and young, tech-savvy population, is well-positioned to benefit from AI. However, the country, like many others, must also prepare its workforce for the potential disruptions that come with this technological transformation.

Actively addressing this challenge, OOOLAB, a top Vietnamese educational technology company, is providing businesses with unique learning and training software.

Specialising in enterprise-grade Learning Management Systems (LMS), they are rolling out a unique platform nationwide that is flexible enough to power any type of in-house and online training while also providing e-learning for self-study.

The goal is to give Vietnamese workers the chance to develop the skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven future.

While the impact of AI on employment has been felt globally, Vietnam presents a unique case. The country boasts a significant manufacturing sector, employing millions of workers in areas like garments and textiles, electronics assembly, and footwear manufacturing  sectors historically susceptible to automation.

While OOOLAB has emphasised the importance of preparing Vietnamese workforces with versatile learning technology, the company's vision extends beyond national borders.

Unfortunately, a collaborative study by the World Bank and the Vietnamese government estimated that up to 1.3 million jobs in Vietnam could be vulnerable to automation by 2030, primarily in manufacturing and agriculture.

This potential displacement highlights the urgent need for proactive upskilling initiatives in Vietnam, a challenge that OOOLAB is responding to.

We believe that continuous learning and upskilling are not just individual and national imperatives, but a global necessity in the AI age, said Cedric Le Ouellec, co-founder and CEO of OOOLAB.

While OOOLAB has emphasised the importance of preparing Vietnamese workforces with versatile learning technology, the company's vision extends beyond national borders.

Our platform LearningOS is designed to empower Vietnamese workforces through upskilling. At its core, our Enterprise LMS has been designed with global best practices for learning in mind. The flexibility and adaptability of our system effectively meets upskilling challenges for learners of all backgrounds, at any location, said Cedric.

Living up to expectations, LearningOS is currently being used in over 20 countries.

OOOLAB offers customised training content for a wide range of industries. Their courses aim to equip workforces with the technical and soft skills they need to drive growth. Their sales training course has been their most popular programme, projected to train over 700,000 employees by year's end.

Mastering effective sales techniques is essential for success with both local and international clients. OOOLAB's sales training programmes provide learners with 'business-to-business' and 'business-to-consumer' tools to excel in this dynamic environment, where promoting human interactions remains paramount.

Having recently developed a foundational AI literacy course for hundreds of nurses and doctors in Vietnam, OOOLAB is tailoring AI courses for various industries.

These courses simplify complex AI concepts, give practical applications, and teach businesses how to leverage AI tools effectively, regardless of their position, or level of expertise.

This year marks a specific milestone for OOOLAB as they begin to develop specialised courses on semiconductor manufacturing and its innovative applications.

Acknowledging the critical role of semiconductors in the future, these courses cater to professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of a vital technology, both in Vietnam and internationally.

In addition to delivering high-quality accessible training, they make sure soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning agility are integrated into their courses. They develop content that helps teams work on their overall communication, collaboration, and leadership abilities.

Continuous learning and upskilling are vital for growth, and OOOLABs in-house instructional design team can develop custom interactive training content for firms in need of it.

OOOLAB is proud to be part of a growing ecosystem of organisations in Vietnam and Asia focused on upskilling initiatives and navigating the AI world.

Their vision is to positively impact one million learners globally by empowering businesses with the tools and resources needed for sustainable growth.

As a recent SME100 Award winner for fast-moving companies in Asia, they are pursuing global expansion and actively collaborating with innovative Vietnamese businesses to upskill workforces, inviting further international partnerships for shared success

Book an introductory meeting today to discover how OOOLAB can prepare your employees for the future here.

Salary gaps must be addressed through upskilling Addressing income disparities between domestic and foreign workers in Vietnam requires collaboration and learning from international cases. Christopher Lee, director of Management Consulting and Workforce Transformation at PwC Vietnam, told VIRs Linh Le about the focus on developing capabilities and upskilling the local workforce.

Ericsson to accelerate Vietnams digitalisation journey via upskilling in 5G The upcoming launch of the AI Lab by RMIT and Ericsson is pinning high hopes on upskilled manpower for Vietnams digital transformation. Denis Brunetti, president of Ericsson in Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, talked to VIRs Minh Anh about the ambitious goals of Ericsson through this initiative.
SSC issues security warning following VNDirect system breach, Illustrative image (Photo: VNDirect)

Hanoi - The State Securities Commission (SSC) on late March 25 issued a security warning regarding the online securities trading system of VNDirect Securities Company (VNDirect).

The document, signed by Doan Thanh Tung, Director of the Information Technology Department of the State Securities Commission, stated that a securities company recently experienced an attack on its information technology system, resulting in the temporary suspension of its securities trading system.



To ensure the safe, stable and smooth operation of the securities market, the State Securities Commission has instructed the company to ensure the security and continuous operation of its information technology systems and backup databases in accordance with Article 89, Clause 10 of the Securities Law 2019.



Additionally, the company is urged to proactively review and examine security measures for its information technology systems, particularly the securities trading system and internet-connected systems, to promptly address any security vulnerabilities.



The State Securities Commission emphasised the importance of conducting online transaction process checks, risk control procedures, system and data backup procedures, as well as implementing measures to mitigate potential security risks.



"In the event of any signs of compromised security, the company must take immediate and focused action to resolve and rectify the situation, promptly reporting to the State Securities Commission, stock exchanges and relevant authorities for coordination and resolution," the document stated.



The State Securities Commission further requested the company to diligently and expeditiously conduct a review, examination and provide a plan for remedial actions (if necessary) to the State Securities Commission and related entities before April 1.



As previously reported, on March 25, the VNDirect Securities Company submitted a report to the State Securities Commission regarding the incident.



According to the report, the incident occurred at 10am on March 24 at the DC Fornix Duy Tan. The system was attacked by an international hacker organisation, resulting in the temporary inability to log in to the entire trading platform.



The company confirmed that the incident caused disruption in trading activities but assured that it did not affect the status of customer securities accounts.



Assessing the risks, VNDirect stated that the incident impacted the market, customers, the trading system, and related systems. Customers were unable to log in for online transactions. However, the company affirmed that no actual damages have been incurred.



To address the incident, on the morning of March 25, VNDirect collaborated with partners FPT and Viettel to handle and rectify the situation, ensuring the safety of customer information and assets.



As of the morning of March 26, the trading system was still not reconnected.



On the afternoon of March 25, the HCM Stock Exchange (HOSE) temporarily suspended VNDirect's trading connection with HOSE until the company fully resolves the incident.



Similar incidents also affected Post and Telecommunication Joint Stock Insurance Corporation (PTI), which is related to VNDirect. PTI announced on their official website that their system was attacked starting from 10am on March 24.



Additionally, I.P.A Securities Investment Fund Management Limited Company (IPAAM), also connected to VNDirect, experienced a similar issue of being unable to access their system.



Both PTI and IPAAM have significant shareholders, including VNDirect and authorised shareholders (accounting for 42.33 per cent), as well as DB Insurance Company from the Republic of Korea (accounting for 37.32 per cent).



IPAAM was established in 2008 and was wholly owned by VNDirect. However, as of December 2023, VNDirect completed the transfer of 100 per cent of its capital contribution in IPAAM to the IPA Investment Group.



Similarly to VNDirect, as of the morning of March 26, the systems of PTI and IPAAM are still inaccessible.
The company, a sub-holding of THACO Group, specialises in the mechanics and supporting industries and is progressively solidifying its market presence by delivering high-quality construction projects that meet the highest technical and aesthetic standards.

THACO Industries owns Vietnams largest mechanical complex with a capacity of 200,000 tonnes of steel reserves and surpassing 50,000 tonnes in annual processing, coupled with solid financial and human resources that empower the company to undertake projects of diverse scales including mega structures.

THACO Industries has invested in cutting-edge design and simulation software such as Tekla Structures, Sap2000, and AutoCAD to better assess and predict risk and deliver better performance quickly and more easily, and to ensure projects fully comply with strict technical standards and customer requirements.

While the company leverages the extensive expertise of its well-trained employees, experts, and engineers, it also places particular emphasis on automated technology throughout the manufacturing process, evident in a range of sophisticated equipment from Australia, Switzerland, Japan, and South Korea.

This includes the Fibre Laser and CNC Plasma/OxyGas cutting machines; pressure processing lines for bending, punching, and stamping; 100 automated welding robots, and 3-in-1 (welding, drilling, and compressing) technology, as well as surface treatment lines such as shot blasting, ED dipping, powder coating, and more.

In addition, the company applies advanced project management software to optimise supply chains and monitor project progress. The software automatically spots errors and unexpected incidents in production, ensuring that all resources, such as raw materials and labour, are utilised efficiently.

The company has consistently adhered to quality and technical standards for steel structure manufacturing and assembly throughout its processing and installation processes.

THACO Industries offers comprehensive solutions throughout a project life cycle, from design and processing to installation and maintenance of MEP systems for industrial, commercial, and civil projects, and can design, construct, and install metal structures, technological production lines, machinery, and equipment for buildings and factories.

Its expertise extends to all aspects of MEP systems, such as electrical, fire protection, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, along with water management including supply, treatment, and drainage.

The company is currently a strategic partner to major industrial players like Hoa Phat, Doosan, Dinco, Dai Quang Minh, and PTSC Quang Ngai.

THACO industries has completed more than 100 projects in Vietnam and internationally, including Hoa Phat Pellet Sintering 2 Factory in Quang Ngai province, Ba Son Bridge in Ho Chi Minh City, Chu Lai overpass in Quang Nam province, STS Crane platform for Doosan Vina in Quang Ngai, steel structures for Nghi Son 2 thermal power plant in Thanh Hoa province, Snuol Agricultural Complex in Cambodia, Carbo France Factory in France, and Eagle Farm Warehouse in Australia, plus many more.

Vietnam aims for expansive ICD system The country is making strong efforts to develop an expansive inland container depots (ICDs) system to empower the local logistics sector.

THACO Group to invest $4.2 billion in circular economy THACO Group has reported significant progress in its Thaco Circular Economy Complex, a project poised to transform Lam Dong province.
At the signing of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation between the Thai Binh Department of Planning and Investment and Hannoverimpuls GmbH  the economic development agency of the city and region of Hanover. (Photo: VNA)

Berlin  A delegation from the northern province of Thai Binh, led by Deputy Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Nguyen Khac Than, visited several localities and business organisations in Germany from March 25 to 27, in a bid to enhance trade cooperation with and attract direct investment from the European nation.

While in Germany, the delegation held a working session with the authorities of Hanover, the capital and largest city of Lower Saxony state.

Speaking at the event, Than, who is also Chairman of the Thai Binh Peoples Committee, expressed his wish to promote cooperation between the province and Hanover in the coming time.

Thai Binh also seeks to attract German investment in such fields as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and labour cooperation, he noted, adding that the province plans to establish the first biopharmaceutical industrial park in Vietnam.

Than and Mayor of Hanover Thomas Hermann also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation between the provincial Department of Planning and Investment and Hannoverimpuls GmbH  the economic development agency of the city and Hanover region.

Accordingly, both sides agreed to collaborate in supporting companies from the Hanover region to expand business activities in Thai Binh, and vice versa. They also concurred to cooperate in exchanging information and business delegations, organising and participating in conferences and seminars, providing consulting services on the current situation and prospects of industries, and supporting the search for partners in marketing, science, and technology.

The delegation then worked with the Chamber of Commerce Hannover to introduce the province and its investment opportunities.

They also organised a forum for investment and business connection between Thai Binh and Lower Saxony, attended by about 30 German companies.

Thai Binh to host $2 billion LNG project The Thai Binh liquefied natural gas (LNG) project is located in Thai Binh Economic Zone, and will have a designed capacity of 1500MW. The investment consortium behind the project is responsible for nearly $2 billion in funding and consists of Tokyo Gas, Kyuden, and Truong Thanh Vietnam Group.

Thai Binh targeting modern development With an eagles eye on the northern provinces potential and advantages, Thai Binhs official planning strategy aims to boost its development and provide it with a modern economic structure.
Researchers at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technologies. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi - The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) has proposed increasing the support for research and development (R&D) costs to over 50 per cent for foreign direct investment (FDI) businesses, it said in policy feedback requested by the Ministry of Planning and Investment.

The VCCI said as Vietnam is to impose additional corporate income tax under the global minimum tax, it would be a good time to upgrade the country's investment support policies as well, saying they would provide both challenges and opportunities for the Southeast Asian country.

According to the VCCI, investment support policies offer flexibility, allowing the state to select the target, form and content of support to guide enterprises in investment activities, aimed at producing positive outcomes for society. Therefore, while designing investment support policies, it is essential to choose options that can realise more than one objective, those that support business enterprises and produce positive, long-term impacts on Vietnam's socio-economic development.

The chamber said the current 50 per cent limit on R&D costs for FDI businesses should be reviewed and reconsidered. The VCCI advised that the support level could go up as high as 75 per cent, given that the FDI would employ a sufficient number of local talents for the job. In addition to the spill-over effect on the economy, the new incentive would help encourage closer collaboration among businesses and research institutions, enhancing their capabilities and contributing to the scientific and technological development of the country.

In addition, the chamber recommended adding criteria concerning the nationality of directly employed researchers to promote the recruitment of Vietnamese researchers and scientists to conduct R&D activities.

Regarding support for fixed asset investment costs, up to a 40 per cent maximum, both movable and immovable assets must be made available to high-tech sector R&D for at least three years. Meanwhile, the chamber suggested a more detailed classification of support levels based on asset types with a clear preference for immovable assets.

"Such policies help incentivise businesses to make and spend in Vietnam, instead of moving production elsewhere," said the chamber in a statement.

VCCI proposes zero tax rate to be maintained for exported services The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) has proposed a zero-value added tax (VAT) rate to be maintained for exported services, over worries that tax hikes would undermine the competitiveness of Vietnamese providers against foreign rivals.

Tra Vinh approves 576 billion VND petroleum storage terminal project The southern province of Tra Vinh has approved an investment worth 576 billion VND (23.26 million USD) to develop a petroleum storage terminal project by the Tra Vinh Petrochemical and Energy Joint Stock Company.
Exquisite culinary offers

From now until May 5, VIB credit cardholders who are members of the Unlock privilege 4.0 programme can embark on the ultimate culinary journey with exclusive menus of Asian and European dishes with exquisite flavours meticulously prepared by talented chefs at luxury restaurants, including Michelin Guide-rated restaurants.

In addition, VIBs customers can enjoy discounts of up to 25 per cent at top-notch restaurants like Renaissance Riverside Saigon Hotel, New World Saigon Hotel, Park Hyatt Saigon Hotel, Sofitel Saigon Plaza, Hotel Equatorial Ho Chi Minh, and El Gaucho Steakhouse.

The deal will continue to expand from now until the end of the year to bring even more premium culinary experiences to cardholders and their families and friends.

Flight upgrades

VIB credit cardholders with the highest total spending abroad will become Vietnam Airlines Platinum BSV members until August 31, and will receive a Vietnam Airlines Gold BSV card that grants holders a slew of promotions and services such as priority check-in, boarding, business class lounge, extra baggage allowance, and much more.

Save on international payments

The lowest foreign exchange rate on the market is another plus for cardholders who often make overseas business trips or need to travel.

Customers can text 'VIB DK NT' to 6089 when making payment transactions overseas to be charged the lowest exchange rate for USD for that month, as confirmed by the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV). This helps cardholders maximize savings while feeling secure about the transparency and accuracy of their international payments.

Birthday gifts

VIB aims to bring joy to customers, especially on their birthdays, so the bank will send thoughtful birthday gifts to the 50 customers with the highest number of spending transactions the previous month.

Fee exemptions

Unlock privilege 4.0 with VIB credit cards offers a range of incentives to help customers save costs and enjoy premium financial experiences. Members are completely exempt from account management fees, SMS banking service, account statement, cash payment, cash withdrawal in VND, and teller fees, to name just a few.

In addition, international money transfers to friends and family and 24/7 online money transfers are also free, while cardholders of VIB Platinum, VIB iCard, VIB LazCard, VIB Online Plus 2in1, and VIB Bill Pay will be able to use them anytime, anywhere, and receive support from the bank regarding maintenance fees.

At the same time, cash withdrawals at ATMs outside the VIB system will also be completely free for members.

To learn more about the Unlock 4.0 privileges exclusively for VIB credit cardholders, follow this link:

vib.com.vn/vn/promotion/detail?promotionId=4367234&name=Mo-Khoa-Dac-Quyen-4.0

VIB accompanies the National Book Awards to celebrate Vietnamese culture On December 29, the 6th National Book Awards, organised by the Ministry of Information and Communications in coordination with the Central Propaganda Department, the Publishers Association of Vietnam, and Vietnam Television, with the accompanying of Vietnam International Bank (VIB), celebrated 41 outstanding works across various fields.

VIB drives digital banking innovation with Temenos latest version of banking platform powered by AWS Vietnam International Bank (VIB) is delighted to announce the implementation of the Temenos Core Banking solution on cloud this week in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and ITSS.
VNDirect cyberattack causes big splash on stock market, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com

VNDirect Cyber System has been under attack since March 24. It has been three days since the temporary shutdown, and VNDirect's online securities trading system has yet to resume operations.

VNDirect said it has been making efforts to restore the system, and all customer data is safe. The securities firm is in the process of reconnecting the system, but the process is taking longer than expected.

VNDirect was attacked by a group of professional hackers who encrypted our company data. We have now completed decrypting the blocked data and starting to restore the system," Nguyen Vu Long, CEO of VNDirect, said.

Based on information shared by VNDirect, Vu Ngoc Son, technical director of the Vietnam National Cybersecurity Technology Corporation (NCS), said, the company once information has been encrypted, there is almost no way to deal with it in the short term. Therefore, organisations often have to pay to receive recovery passwords.

Following the cyberattack, Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX) announced it was temporarily disconnecting remote trading and online trading of derivative securities transactions, debt instrument transactions, and individual corporate bond transactions of VNDirect Securities until the problem is resolved.

VNDirect is not the first financial company to be attacked in the industry. However, the incident made a big splash as it affected a large number of users.

"After restoring the data, it will take time to recover the system to avoid information leaks and ensure safety from other risks," he commented.

Sophos, a global leader in innovating and delivering cybersecurity, noted in its annual 2024 Sophos Threat Report that the greatest cybersecurity challenge facing all businesses is data protection. More than 90 per cent of attacks reported by its customers involve data or credential theft in one way or another, whether the method is a ransomware attack, data extortion, unauthorised remote access, or simply data theft.

In 2023, nearly 50 per cent of malware detections for small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) were keyloggers, spyware, and stealers, malware that attackers use to steal data and credentials. Attackers subsequently use this stolen information to gain unauthorised remote access, extort victims, deploy ransomware, and more.

Business email compromise (BEC), in which email accounts are taken over by a cybercriminal for the purpose of fraud or other malicious purposes, is a substantial problem in the SMB set. It is estimated that in 2023, business email compromises were identified by the Sophos Incident Response team more often than any other type of incident, save ransomware.

Stolen credentials, including browser cookies, can be used for BEC, access to third-party services such as cloud-based finance systems, and access to internal resources that can be exploited for fraud or other monetary gain. They can also be sold by access brokers to anyone who cares to exploit them. Sophos has tracked offers on underground forums claiming to provide access to a number of SMBs networks.

The value of data as currency has increased exponentially among cybercriminals, and this is particularly true for SMBs, which tend to use one service or software application per function for their entire operations. For example, lets say attackers deploy an infostealer on their targets network to steal credentials and then get hold of the password for the companys accounting software. Attackers could then gain access to the targeted companys financials and have the ability to funnel funds into their own accounts, said Christopher Budd, director of Sophos X-Ops Research.

Vietnamese companies facing longer downtimes from cyber breaches Organisations in Vietnam are facing longer downtimes from cybersecurity breaches, compared to the regional and global averages, according to Ciscos 2019 Asia-Pacific CISO Benchmark Study.

Cyberattacks more prevalent as online work comes into fashion Local companies are on edge due to their great exposure to cyberattacks through overseas work-from-home services that are their only choice to maintain the workload for employees amidst the COVID-19 lockdown.
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NEW YORK (AP)  Former President Donald Trump is planning to attend the wake for a New York City police officer who was fatally shot during a traffic stop this week, according to his campaign.

Trump, the 2024 presumptive Republican presidential nominee, is expected to be at a visitation Thursday on Long Island for Officer Jonathan Diller, the first New York City police officer killed in the line of duty in two years.

President Trump is moved by the invitation to join NYPD Officer Jonathan Dillers family and colleagues as they deal with his senseless and tragic death," said Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt.

The Queens-born Republican has repeatedly raised the issue of crime in the Big Apple on the campaign trail and ahead of his own hush-money criminal trial in Manhattan. In a social media post Tuesday, he noted police said Diller's alleged shooter, Guy Rivera, had numerous prior arrests, declaring that he NEVER should have been let back out on the streets.

The news came Wednesday after a second suspect in the shooting, Lindy Jones, was arraigned on weapons charges.

Police said Jones, 41, was behind the wheel of an SUV, with Rivera in the passenger seat, that was illegally parked at a bus stop in the Far Rockaway neighborhood shortly before 6 p.m. Monday when Diller and his partner approached the vehicle.

Rivera refused Diller's orders to get out of the vehicle and shot Diller under his protective vest, according to police.

He was given a lawful order numerous times to step out of the car," Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a news conference after the shooting. "He refused. And when the officers took him out of the car, rather than stepping out of the car, he shot our officer.

The 31-year-old Diller, who was married and had a 1-year-old son, was rushed to a hospital but could not be saved.

Diller's partner returned fire, hitting the gunman in the back, police said. Rivera remained hospitalized Wednesday and had not been formally charged.

Rivera's mother, Keshia Gilyard, told the New York Daily News that he did not trust law enforcement after serving time in prison.

He might have thought they were trying to hurt him and something snapped," she said.

Jones was arrested after police obtained a search warrant and found a loaded 9 mm pistol in the glove compartment with the serial number scratched off, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said. He was arraigned in Queens on four illegal weapons charges.

Katz said in a news release her office will continue working around the clock to seek justice on behalf of Officer Dillers loved ones, his NYPD family and in honor of his selflessness and courage.

A message seeking comment was sent to Jones' attorney, Linda Bucher.

Diller, who joined the police department three years ago, lived in Massapequa Park on Long Island with his wife, Stephanie, and their son, Ryan.

Mayor Eric Adams, a former police officer, called Diller's shooting devastating and said Tuesday, These are bad people doing bad things to good people. Its the good guys against the bad guys.

Diller's funeral Mass is planned for Saturday at St. Rose of Lima Roman Catholic Church in Massapequa.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Gov. Tony Evers on Wednesday signed into law bipartisan bills that are designed to better protect the safety of judges following the killing of a retired judge and combat the rise in human trafficking.

In total, Evers signed 29 crime-related bills, most of which passed with broad bipartisan support.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court had recommended three of the bills that Evers signed, which were initiated in response to threats of violence against judges.

The bills were introduced after 68-year-old retired Wisconsin judge John Roemer was shot and killed in his New Lisbon home in 2022. The man accused of killing Roemer had been sentenced to prison by Roemer years earlier. He shot himself in Roemer's home and later died in the hospital.

One new law makes it a crime to picket, parade, or demonstrate at or near a judges home with the intent to influence or interfere with their work. Another gives new privacy protections to judges to halt publication of personal information about them and their families, including home addresses. And the third bill Evers signed exempts a judicial security profile form from disclosure under the public records law.

There have been 142 threats made against Wisconsin judges in the past year, according to the Wisconsin Supreme Court Marshals Office.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Annette Ziegler, in a statement praising enactment of the new laws, cited Roemer's killing as one of many acts of increasing violence against judges across the country.

She called the package of new laws a much-needed step in the right direction to provide safety and security to our judicial officers.

Evers also signed a package of bills that were proposed by a legislative task force that studied human trafficking.

One law creates a human trafficking council starting in July 2025 at the state Department of Justice. It is charged with collecting and maintaining information and data about human trafficking, developing model training and creating a state strategic plan to prevent human trafficking.

Another bill Evers signed requires training in identifying and preventing human trafficking for employees who are likely to have contact with the public and vulnerable people. That includes private security officers, public transit managers, hotel and motel owners and those who own and manage strip clubs.

Expanding training to identify human trafficking will be a critical tool in our efforts to intervene and prevent human trafficking crimes, Evers said in a statement.

Evers also signed into law a measure that makes $10 million available in grants for services that support crime victims, including sexual assault and domestic violence abuse survivors. Another bipartisan bill Evers signed will ensure full staffing of an office that assists schools with addressing safety concerns.

The new law would use state money to replace federal pandemic relief funds to fund about 14 positions in the state Department of Justices Office of School Safety for nine months.

Other bills Evers signed will increase the penalty for fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer; create a new crime for possessing child sexual abuse material created with Artificial Intelligence technology and create a new crime for possessing sex dolls intended to resemble minors.
An 18-year-old University High School student was arrested Tuesday after a 15-year-old student reported being sexually assaulted at the school.

Lahrenz Ezekial Levi DuBose was booked into McLennan County Jail and charged with sexual assault of a child, a second-degree felony. According to his arrest warrant affidavit, Waco Independent School District police were notified Friday of the alleged assault and conducted a forensic screening with the alleged victim Monday.

During the screening, the student told police DuBose was sitting in front of the school with the student following an after-school event Thursday, when he offered to show the student his secret spot.

The affidavit says that as DuBose led the student to a back exterior area of the school, the student told DuBose they did not want to go with him, and in response DuBose grabbed the students hand and forcefully dragged them behind the school. The affidavit says once behind the school, DuBose sexually assaulted the student, who repeatedly told DuBose no and attempted to push him away.

The affidavit says the student notified school staff the next day, and school staff immediately notified Waco ISD police.

DuBose remained jailed Wednesday with bond set at $20,000.
The Woodway City Council on Monday put in jeopardy a $1.05 million state grant for sidewalks near Woodway Elementary School on Estates Drive.

A vote Monday on a resolution to enter an advance funding agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation for the sidewalk grant failed 2-3, with one council member absent and one recusing herself.

The policy board of the Waco-area Metropolitan Planning Organization were very excited to see that TxDOT funded all sidewalk projects proposed by Waco as well as those in Woodway and Mart, MPO Director Mukesh Kumar said Tuesday. It will be very disappointing if the Woodway City Council does not find its way back to continuing this project.

The MPO assists in development of TxDOT and federal highway projects and other forms of transportation including buses and sidewalks. It supported all the local sidewalk proposals before TxDOT, Kumar said.

Woodway council members John Williams and Janell Gilman voted in favor of the sidewalk grant Monday, while council members David Russell, Gayle Avant and David Keyston voted against it. Storey Cook recused herself at the insistence of Russell, and Mayor Amine Qourzal did not attend Mondays meeting because of a business trip.

City Manager Shawn Oubre told council members the grant application has been in the works for around three years and if they did not enter the advance funding agreement, the states contribution of $1.05 million to the sidewalk project could be withdrawn and given to the next municipality in line for the money.

Before the vote, Russell said Cook should abstain because she has a campaign sign on an undeveloped lot near the school where the sidewalk would be built.

If these sidewalks were to get built it would look favorably upon you, Russell said. We asked (former Council Member) David Mercer to recuse himself from a prior vote like this because of where he had a campaign sign positioned. He abstained then, and you should abstain now.

When the vote was called on the motion, Cook remained silent.

Grant application documents Oubre submitted to TxDOT say the city wanted to build 1,925 linear feet of sidewalks 8 feet wide around two sides of Woodway Elementary School that face Midway Drive and Estates Drive, and continue the sidewalk along Estates Drive toward Highway 84, passing a vacant lot and a lot where a Dutch Bros. coffee shop now stands. The project as approved by TxDOT would also add crosswalks, signs and 10 curb ramps compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

The city would have been required to contribute 20% of the project cost, or around $263,000, in matching funds.

Before the vote, the council debated the plan.

Russell said several residents objected to spending their city tax dollars on building sidewalks around a Midway Independent School District school when they live outside the school district. While most of Woodway is in Midway ISD, the area north of Bosque Boulevard around Western Oaks Drive, Woodland West Drive and Wedgewood Drive is in Waco ISD, along with a few blocks around Brentwood Circle.

Russell also said some residents oppose spending city tax money to build sidewalks on the two private lots along Estates.

If its so important to put sidewalks there, Midway should pay for them around their school and Dutch Bros. should pay for them in front of their business, Russell said.

City code requires sidewalks to be included only in new residential construction, said John Norman, assistant director of community services and development. There are no sidewalk requirements for existing homes and none at all for commercial or institutional properties like businesses and schools.

Keyston asked whether the grant could be used to put sidewalks at equivalent length in another neighborhood where residents he has heard from believe the walking is more dangerous.

Oubre said moving the sidewalks to another neighborhood would probably result in TxDOT denying the grant.

Williams said that by the time the city could reapply for another project in the neighborhood Keyston suggested, the grant might no longer be available, or TxDOT might evaluate other proposals as more conforming to its evaluation criteria.

Russell said after the meeting that part of the reason he opposed the funding agreement was over a proposal by Cook to buy $200,000 worth of playground equipment for a Midway ISD school in Woodway with tax dollars.

The proposal from the Woodway Elementary School Parent Teacher Association that Cook is guiding through the citys boards, commissions and council actually calls for lights to be installed on a walking trail in a portion of the schools property that is used by Woodway residents of all ages and many levels of physical abilities, Cook said by phone Tuesday. The lights would come on at night, not during school hours.

This is not my proposal. Its the PTAs proposal, Cook said. Also, the PTA is asking for funding from other sources for other equipment to improve that walking trail. It would not just be the city.

Cook also said the sidewalk grant and the proposal for lights on the walking trail at the school are completely separate. The PTA was supposed to brief the plan to the citys parks commission later this week, but the briefing has been delayed until a May meeting because of a school event the same night as this weeks parks meeting.
Trinity AME giveaway

Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church, 819 Dunbar Ave., will host a giveaway event from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday.

New items including toys, household items, clothes, shoes and food will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis.

Live music will be provided by The Gospel 5 of Corsicana.

The event is open to the public and is sponsored in partnership with the Shirley Charles Foundation.

For more information, email ljessie6@gmail.com or call 214-418-3123.

Boots, Lace & Pearls Gala

The Waco Police Association and emergency responders in the Heart of Texas region will hold the second Boots, Lace & Pearls Gala from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday at the Waco Convention Center, 100 Washington Ave.

Tickets cost $125 and are available at wacopa.org.

The aim is to honor and acknowledge the exceptional emergency responders who serve Central Texas. The event will support the emergency responder assistance fund, which helps police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, other first responders and their families in times of need.

For more information, email wacopacares@gmail.com.

Community egg hunt

There will be a Glow in the Dark Community Egg Hunt at 6 p.m. Saturday at the South Waco Recreation Center, 2815 Speight Ave.

The event includes food, games, vendors and a DJ.

Karem Easter egg hunt

Karem Shrine, 400 Karem Circle, will host an Easter egg hunt from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday.

The event is free and open to the community.

MCC holiday

McLennan Community College will be closed Friday and Saturday for spring holiday. Classes will resume Monday.

Texas Tech University and Waco Family Medicine-MCC will be open for regular business hours Friday. Tarleton State University administrative offices will be open but classes will not be held.

For more information, call 254-299-8622.

Free legal clinic

Greater Waco Legal Services will hold its monthly free legal clinic from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at G.W. Carver Middle School, 1601 J.J. Flewellen Road.

Appointments are strongly encouraged but not required.

For more information, call 254-733-2828.

Clifton High blood drive

Clifton High School and Carter BloodCare will hold a blood drive from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at Clifton High School, 1101 N. Avenue Q.

To schedule an appointment, call Fatima Cathcart at 254-675-2827.

Rotary scholarships

Applications are due Friday for this years Waco Rotary Club educational scholarships. Students who are who are classified as juniors or seniors in college, permanent residents of McLennan County, and have resided in McLennan County for the past two consecutive years are eligible. Applications are available at wacorotary.org.

Good Friday fish fry

Elm Mott United Methodist Church, 168 Leroy Parkway, will have a Good Friday fish fry at 4:30 p.m. Friday.

Serving will continue until supplies run out. Meals cost $10.

Kennys Funland

Extraco Events Center, 4601 Bosque Blvd., will host Kennys Funland carnival Friday through April 14.

The Midway will be open from 6 to 10 p.m. weekdays and 3 to 11 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Costs are $30 for armbands and $2 per ticket with 2-4 tickets per ride.

For more information, go to www.extracoeventscenter.com/events.

Cafe y Pan Dulce!

The Cen-Tex Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will hold a networking event, Cafe y Pan Dulce!, April 4 at Dream Couture Waco, 2114 Austin Ave.

The event will include coffee and treats, networking opportunities, and 45-second introductions.

For times, call the chamber at 254-754-7111.

Scholarship applications

The Heart of Texas Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America annually awards educational scholarships to deserving students who are pursuing or plan to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies at an accredited institution of higher education. The scholarship announcement and applications, due April 5, are available at HOTMOAA.org.

Month of wetlands hikes

Lake Waco Wetlands and the Cameron Park Zoo will offer hikes through the wetlands from 7 to 8 p.m. every Friday in April, starting April 5.

Many animals become active as the sun sets.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring water and a camera or binoculars.

Everyone is welcome. No registration is required.

For more information, email noras@wacotx.gov or call 254-848-9654.

Home repair applications

Grassroots Community Development is accepting applications through April 5 for its Bounce Exterior Home Repair Program to help low-income, city of Waco homeowners. The organization is looking for 40 to 50 applicants in need of exterior home repair.

Applications are available at GrassrootsWaco.org.

For more information, call Brian Shavers at 254-235-7358, ext. 210.
WATERLOO  More than 300 employees at John Deeres Waterloo operations will lose their jobs in late April, the company confirmed Tuesday.

A John Deere spokesperson said 308 production workers will be laid off indefinitely April 29. Employees reportedly learned of the layoffs in meetings with factory leaders Tuesday.

John Deere informed members of the workforce at its Waterloo Operations in Waterloo, Iowa, on Tuesday, March 26, that 308 production employees will be placed on indefinite layoff effective April 29. Employees were told of the layoffs by factory leadership in meetings today, a Deere statement said.

Each John Deere factory balances the size of its production workforce with the needs of the individual factory to optimize the workforce at each facility. John Deere Waterloo Operations currently have about 5,500 total employees with about 3,600 of them working in production and maintenance jobs.

Numbers posted to the Iowa Workforce Development WARN (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Act) website also indicated 308 workers will be idled.

The announcement comes two weeks after the company announced it will lay off 150 workers at its Ankeny location.

According to recent Deere earnings reports, the company made $10.1 billion in FY 2023 and is projecting earnings of $7.5 billion to $7.75 billion for FY 2024.

In February, the company reported net income of $1.751 billion for the first quarter of 2024, which ended Jan. 28, or $6.23 per share. That was down from the same time period last year when the company reported a net income of $1.959 billion, or $6.55 per share.

The company announced Feb. 28 that the largest, most powerful tractor it has ever made is expected to roll off the assembly lines in Waterloo in mid-2024.

The new 9RX tractor is a flexible swivel-joint articulated tractor with four huge treads or tracks. The tractor can be fitted with 830, 770 or 710 horsepower engines.

Photos: John Deere 100th Anniversary Celebration 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-1 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-3 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-4 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-2 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-5 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-22 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-19 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-6 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-11 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-17 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-25 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-30 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-29 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-26 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-27 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-28 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-23 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-21 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-20 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-18 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-24 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-15 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-13 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-16 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-10 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-14 061618mp-John-Deere-100th-Anniversary-Celebration-12
WATERLOO -- Artificial intelligence is making inroads to the field of law enforcement.

But machine learning has yet to make a big splash at local police departments.

We dont do any predictive policing or use artificial intelligence to predict where crime will occur. We dont use any predictive analytics, said Joe Leibold, chief of the Waterloo Police Department.

The agency does have a few AI tools at its disposal.

The Axon body-worn cameras issued to every officer include a transcription function, Leibold said.

Officers turn on their cameras when dealing with the public or handling calls, recording what happens with an unblinking eye. When downloading footage from the camera, officers can use the tool to automatically generate a written account of conversations and voices picked up by the microphone.

Its designed to be a time-saving device, but Leibold said most officers bypass the technology and instead transcribe by hand for better accuracy.

Another time-saving device used by police allows investigators to quickly sort through hours worth of video to find the pertinent parts. For instance, if a car was stolen over the span of a weekend, an officer can program the software to flag sections of the video where action takes place instead of sitting through 48 hours of footage.

You can skip to where theres motion, but its all based on an officer saying I need to look at these videos. We dont have anything running randomly, Leibold said.

The Waterloo department also uses license plate readers, cameras that are attached to squad cars. The cameras are running in the background, passively scanning plates of passing vehicles and checking them against a law enforcement database. When it comes across the plates of a stolen vehicle, it will send an alert to the officer, who then can confirm the automated hit and take appropriate action.

Weve recovered several stolen cars with them. I cant tell you how many, Leibold said.

Plate data is also kept for short period of time before they are dumped, allowing authorities to check for the presence of certain vehicles that may become of interest later on.

For years, the city has been using stationary red light and speed cameras that photograph plates and issue citations for drivers committing those infractions at certain intersections around town. But those cameras dont collect plate numbers of non-offending motorists, Leibold said.

Much of the downtown also has stationary surveillance cameras run by the city. Even the landmark Fourth Street pedestrian bridge has them. The cameras have been used to solve crimes, including the case of a man who was breaking into area businesses.

The cameras arent linked to a facial recognition system, but the quality of the image is there to allow a human view to recognize someone on camera, Leibold said.

Other technology is on the horizon.

One such system is predictive policing, which uses statistical crime data and incident reports to make recommendations on where authorities should focus their attention.

That technology sometimes faces a backlash. In 2020, the city of Santa Cruz, Calif., became one of the first municipalities to ban predictive policing -- and facial recognition -- after using it for about a decade, according to the Los Angeles Times. Critics said the technology was unfairly targeting minority communities, the Times article states.

Other departments have used AI to review officer body cam footage, looking for hints of bad police work or inappropriate behavior. The Waterloo Police Department does random body camera reviews without the aid of AI, selecting a certain percentage of videos for human review, Leibold said.

We do human sampling. We have supervisors review random body cam footage to look for best practices, he said. Honestly, thats a people business, in my opinion.

Meanwhile, cutting-edge technology is being used locally to train police officers.

Hawkeye Community Colleges police science program recently added virtual reality simulations to its curriculum.

Nothing is pre-recorded. One hundred percent of the actions and vocals are controlled by an operator, said Ben Scholl, law enforcement director at Hawkeye.

The Apex Officer system uses VR goggles and plastic handgun and taser mockups to walk officer cadets through a series of scenarios --- traffic stops, hostage situations or just a person having a bad day.

There is a large assortment of settings -- from back alleys to apartments to offices -- populated with lifelike characters controlled by the instructor. The virtual characters mouths move when the instructor talks. They have a range of facial expressions and can pull out drivers licenses or guns.

Scholl said the virtual reality system is more than a shoot/dont shoot simulator. Communication skills play an important role in the drills.

Some of them end up in force. Some of them dont. It could go either way, he said. This is an area where we can identify training needs and also strengths.

Scholl said the most requested training scenarios simulate mental health calls and First Amendment auditors -- social media streamers who push the envelope filming interactions with police.

In the past, such lessons had been practiced with the colleges MILO simulator, where the characters and environment were projected on a flat screen in front of the officer as pre-recorded scenarios played out. Officers choices in the drills were limited, as were the characters options.

There was no benefit to move on a screen. This starts to offset, so you can see the angles.  They move around like they are supposed to, so it gives a more natural response, Scholl said.

The Apex Officer simulator isnt just for Hawkeye students. The college lends the system to local law enforcement agencies for ongoing training.
WATERLOO  More than 30 area businesses and other organizations are voicing support for the merger of East and West high schools.

The business partners that make up the career and technical education advisory group for the Waterloo Career Center presented a letter of support for the proposed project to the Board of Education on Monday. A Waterloo Community Schools task force has recommended a single grades 10-12 school in an expanded facility on the campus of Central Middle School and the Career Center. Students in eighth and ninth grades would attend classes at the existing high school buildings and the three other middle school buildings would serve sixth and seventh graders.

Among those who signed the letter were officials from Bertch Cabinets, Hawkeye Community College, the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center and Grow Cedar Valley. They state that merging the schools would "serve as a catalyst for positive change within the community" and "help break down barriers, foster community spirit, and establish a community hub for activities, events, and partnerships."

The letter signers suggest that merging East and West on the Central/Career Center campus, located along Katoski Drive on the west side of the district, could usher in a growth boom by enticing new businesses to move to the area and allowing for increased economic development.

"Developers may be attracted to invest in the community that values education, leading to further economic development," the letter says.

The letter signers also sing the praises of the Career Center, which draws high school students from across Waterloo Schools and other districts. In addition to providing community unity, equity, and engagement, they note that it has "proven to be an invaluable resource and students that have access to the WCC earn higher grade point averages and even have higher graduation rates."

Board member Janelle Ewing, expressed her gratitude for the support received from the businesses and organizations.

"I firmly believe  and I have said this at many meetings and to many of the members  that moving toward a one high school project is really, really important for Waterloo," she said. "And it's going to give opportunities to so many kids. ...

"On this list of businesses, (are) some of the smartest and brightest minds in our community," said Ewing. "... They know as business owners what it takes to attract good employees to Waterloo and make our town economically viable. ... I think we should all listen very carefully to what they have to say."

The school board is expected to take a vote July on whether to move forward with the merger.

Close Waterloo Schools 'Bridging Futures' Town Hall Meeting Waterloo area residents met with WCSD officials to discuss possible merger of East and West High Schools on Jan. 26th, 2024.
Since beginning my tenure as president of the University of Northern Iowa in 2017, Ive gained even more appreciation for this great institution. Our commitment to student success and the state of Iowa truly set us apart from our peers. Part of what makes UNI unique is our ability to assess where we are at and where we need to go in order to serve our students today and in the future. Weve established some lofty goals  but there is no doubt that UNI is headed in the right direction.

Facilities our campus needs for the future

The University of Northern Iowa campus is undergoing numerous renovation and expansion projects to ensure that we are fully equipped to meet the needs of students and our community for many years to come.

The renovation and expansion of the Applied Engineering Building represents a fabulous example. The AEB houses the department of applied engineering and technical management, whose programs currently enroll about 400 students. This modernization project will help UNI achieve its goal of increasing enrollment by 75% to 700 students by 2028. The facility will increase by nearly 50%, containing space for computer classrooms and laboratories where students can become skilled in using the technology our states workforce needs.

Another major project underway is the expansion of the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. This $14.9 million project will feature several event space additions, upgrades to the facilitys interior and exterior, as well as improvements to seating. Approximately 14,000 square feet of new and improved space will elevate a facility that is integral to the performing arts in the Cedar Valley and reimagine it for the future needs of patrons.

Degrees to shape tomorrows workforce

UNI is continuing to diversify its wide array of degree programs. Perhaps no new degree has received more attention than UNIs upcoming Bachelor of Science in Nursing. We have created a standalone BSN program to meet the demand for nurses in the state of Iowa. Eighty percent of employers in the state have indicated it is difficult or very difficult to recruit nurses based on data from the Iowa Board of Nursing. Between 2021 and 2031, the demand for registered nurses is expected to grow by 6%.

UNI recognized this need and stepped in to help. The first cohort of nursing students at UNI is already full with 24 students ready to make their mark on the nursing profession.

Signature programs embrace modern challenges

While new academic programs are important, UNI continues to build on its longstanding signature programs such as business and education. UNI alum David Wilson gifted the College of Business $25 million last year. The renamed David W. Wilson College of Business  the first named college in UNI history  has generated excitement all over campus. One such effect is the elevation of ethics education at UNI. A UNI philosophy alum himself, Wilson wants students of today to be prepared for the ethical challenges of tomorrow.

UNIs excellence in educator preparation has been evident from UNIs early days as the Iowa State Normal School. Given the states current teacher shortage, the importance of UNIs teaching program cannot be overstated. We need teachers who are thoroughly equipped to meet the challenges of managing todays classrooms. As schools around the nation struggle to fill spots in educator programs, UNIs teaching program remains strong and steady in recent years. UNI remains in the top 1% of teacher preparation programs nationally and boasts alumni in 99% of Iowa school districts.

Celebrating our successes

As we look to the future, UNI has big things on the horizon, including its upcoming sesquicentennial celebration that begins in 2025 as our institution welcomes its 150th class to campus. The commemoration of UNIs 150th birthday in 2026 anniversary will also coincide with the conclusion of the Our Tomorrow campaign. Thanks to the overwhelming support of our donors, we recently increased our campaign goal to $300 million. As we celebrate all that has happened in the last 150 years, we look forward to the next 150 with great anticipation. No matter what challenges may lay ahead, we will face them together as an institution built on resilience, innovation and an unwavering commitment to student success.
It was a year of growth for Wartburg College, marked by positive enrollment trends and exciting announcements that will allow even more students to discover the value of the Wartburg experience.

Our student body saw its largest year-to-year percentage increase of students since 2016. The number of racially and culturally diverse students on our campus grew by 30%. Transfer student enrollment grew to 42 in fall 2023, the most since 2010. Our Iowa student enrollment is up by 12%, and we added 150 new out-of-state students to our campus, a 33% increase over the previous year.

Our alumni base grew to include our first 14 graduate students who earned a Master of Arts in leadership from the college in May. Our new womens wrestling team is nationally ranked, and our esports team is now enjoying a state-of-the-art competition space.

Riding this wave of success, in September the college announced the Wartburg Commitment. Beginning this fall, all undergraduate students will have the advantage of a new competitive $25,000 tuition sticker price, while new Iowa students who qualify for the Iowa Tuition Grant will have their full tuition costs covered through institutional, state and federal gift assistance. Our new out-of-state students who demonstrate similar need also will receive a minimum of $9,500 in scholarship assistance annually.

Tying in with our new branding initiative, Experience More, all undergraduate Wartburg students also will have access to a one-time disbursement of up to $1,500 they can use to offset the cost of an experiential learning opportunity like study away, internships, research, service trips and more. These once-in-a-lifetime experiences provide students with opportunities to learn about diverse communities and cultures through immersion and shared experiences.

From the recruitment process through graduation and beyond, we want to be sure our students are having the best experiences, and our alumni are staying engaged in the life of the college. As a small private institution, we are uniquely capable of supporting our students. We know them, their stories, and their passions, and we focus on aligning all our services to ensure they are successful in their first year of college and beyond. Already this year we have implemented a new first-year advising model that will help all students as they transition to the rigors of college academics. Because the student experience is about more than just academics, we also are looking at our spaces on campus and determining the optimal configuration to build community among students who are comfortable living much of their lives virtually but who still seek face-to-face interactions.

To ensure continued growth in 2024 and beyond, the college is considering new, primarily online graduate degree opportunities. Im excited about the programs we are researching and hope to be able to make some announcements regarding this work in the coming months. In addition to new programs, we also are bolstering our current graduate leadership program with a new graduate assistant pilot initiative that will help fill entry-level positions on our campus while providing real-world experience to graduate students.

Thanks to a generous $1 million donation, over the next five years the college will create new opportunities to bring students and alumni together in meaningful ways. We know this effort, which will help students find their passion and purpose through targeted mentoring and experiences, can help bolster student retention and success after graduation.
HUDSON -- Donors who give to a Bill Colwell Ford and Northeast Iowa Food Bank drive will have a chance to win a free auto detail or oil change.

People can drop off the essential items into an F-150 parked at the dealership, 238 Waterloo Road, for the Fill A 50 drive throughout April in support of families in need. The winners will be announced on May 3.
DES MOINES  Iowans could get a direct vote on the states income tax policy under a pair of constitutional amendments making their way through the state legislature.

On Tuesday, Iowa House Republicans passed a resolution to add an amendment to the Iowa Constitution requiring a two-thirds majority of the Legislature to increase income taxes on individuals and corporations.

The bill, House Joint Resolution 2006, passed the House 61-35 on a party-line vote.

Another resolution in the Senate, which has advanced out of committee and is eligible for a vote in the full chamber, would require a flat individual income tax in the state, prohibiting a progressive tax system that imposes a higher rate on higher earners.

Both chambers are expected to pass the resolutions, said Rep. Bobby Kaufmann of Wilton, the chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. The two initially started as one resolution, but Kaufmann said they were split up to avoid confusion on the ballot.

If approved by voters, the amendments would enshrine Iowa Republicans tax-cutting agenda into the Constitution and make it far more difficult for future lawmakers to raise tax rates.

The proposals will need to clear a few more hurdles to be added to the states constitution. Constitutional amendments must be passed in multiple years by two separate general assemblies, and then they are placed on the ballot and subject to a popular vote. If the amendment gains majority approval from voters, it is added to the constitution.

This would be the first time the amendments pass the Legislature. If they pass a second time, voters will likely see them on the ballot in 2026, Kaufmann said.

Several top Republican decision-makers have set eliminating Iowas income tax as a long-term goal. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said last year she hopes to reduce Iowas income tax to zero by the end of her term, which ends in 2026.

Amendment sets high bar for tax increases

The proposal passed by the House on Tuesday would require that two-thirds of the members in each chamber  67 in the House and 34 in the Senate  agree on any legislation that increases Iowa's income tax on individuals or corporations.

Democrats have been critical of Republican efforts to lower income taxes in recent years, saying their tax cuts disproportionately benefit the wealthy and do not do enough to lower costs and living expenses for low-income Iowans.

Democrats argued on Tuesday that constraining the ability of the Legislature to increase taxes could backfire if the state experiences an economic downturn and lawmakers are not able to quickly respond and raise revenues for vital services.

Adam Zabner, a Democrat from Iowa City, said that if lawmakers are not able to raise income taxes when more revenue is needed, they will turn to other, more regressive taxes like a sales tax. Lower-income people spend a higher portion of their income on sales tax than high earners.

What this constitutional amendment does is to say next time theres a budget crunch, were going to shift that burden onto the poorest Iowans either by taking away services they rely on or increasing regressive taxes, Zabner said.

Democrats also said the amendment elevated the short-term interests of Iowa Republicans without taking into account how the state could look in 50 or 100 years.

"The mark of good lawmaking is having that long-term vision because we've been selected by the people of Iowa not only to take care of today, but to take care of the generations that come after us," said Rep. Austin Baeth, a Democrat from Des Moines.

More than a dozen other states require a supermajority to pass some tax increases. Kaufmann pointed to Democratic-led states that have similar rules in place and said they have fared well even with the restriction. States have had those rules in place for decades and avoided consequences, Kaufmann said.

The sky did not fall, every example of dystopian future did not happen, he said. There were no grave consequences.

Flat tax amendment also being considered

The resolution to require a flat tax rate in Iowa's constitution passed out of the Senate tax policy committee on March 20 with only Republican support. The bill is eligible for a vote in the full chamber.

The resolution would require individual income taxes to be imposed at a single rate for all taxpayers.

For now, Iowa has a progressive income tax system with brackets ranging from 4.4% to 5.7%. Under tax cuts Reynolds signed in 2022, the income tax will reach a flat 3.9% for all earners by 2026.

Republican lawmakers are likely to speed up that schedule this year, though no plan has been agreed to. Kaufmann said they will likely set a flat tax that will take effect this year at a rate that keeps the state's revenue sustainable.

"If we can get down to 3.9 this year, we will, but I suspect there's a chance that we'll be closer to 4 or 4.1," he said.

Reynolds has proposed a bill to set a flat 3.65% income tax this year and lower it to 3.5% in 2025.

It's tax season: Here are the simple rules to file correctlyand on time It's tax season: Here are the simple rules to file correctlyand on time
By Grainne Ni Aodha, PA

Ireland will intervene in South Africas genocide case against Israel at the top court in the United Nations.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said that after examining whether Ireland could intervene, he had been briefed that there is a basis for an intervention.

A Declaration of Intervention is now being prepared for the Government to approve and will be filed once South Africa has filed its substantive case.

South Africa has taken a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing it of a genocide in Gaza.

According to local health authorities, more than 30,000 people have been killed and a further 70,000 injured in the Gaza Strip since the start of Israels military offensive in the Palestinian enclave.

The UN said that a quarter of the regions 2.3 million population face starvation and around 80 per cent have fled their homes.

The offensive was launched after a Hamas attack in southern Israel that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and saw around 250 hostages taken, some of whom are still held captive.

An interim ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza but stopped short of ordering a ceasefire.

It could be years before the case reaches final judgement.

Speaking on Wednesday, Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Martin said he had given legal staff in his department direction to pursue a legal intervention into the South African case at the ICJ.

He said that he requested that very serious legal work be done as the tests that are applied under the Genocide Convention are very narrow and have a very high threshold.

He said the issue would be brought back to the Government for a more formal decision when South Africa files its case and when further legal work is done.

I had asked my legal staff to do preliminary legal work, last week I was briefed by my legal team in that respect and we believe we have a basis now for an intervention, obviously more substantive work has to be done.

South Africa has yet to table its substantive memorial and that will be some months away yet.

He said involving a third party in an ICJ case is a rare and complex matter.

This will be Irelands fourth time getting involved in cases before the ICJ; it also intervened in the Ukraine vs Russia case.

Mr Martin said the rapidly deteriorating situation in Gaza was now a humanitarian catastrophe.

Clearly, aid is being prevented from going in, but the most vital essentials of life are being prevented from going in to Gaza.

This constitutes significant harm and destruction to a people, and to the people of Gaza.

He added: As the UN Secretary General said as he inspected long lines of blocked relief trucks waiting to enter Gaza during his visit to Rafah at the weekend; it is time to truly flood Gaza with life-saving aid. The choice is clear: surge or starvation. I echo his words today.
The three victims of yesterday's fatal road traffic collision in South Mayo have been named as 47-year-old Una Bowden and her daughters Ciara, 14, and Saoirse, 9.

The incident occurred on the N17, a short distance from Claremorris, at about 2pm on Tuesday, when the car driven by Ms Bowden was involved in a collision with an articulated lorry.

According to The Irish Times, they lived in Gortachalla near Moycullen, Co Galway. Relatives of the deceased have been informed.

David Bowden, husband of Una and father to Ciara and Saoirse, is travelling back to Ireland. Mr Bowden is a project manager with the United Nations and had been working on a humanitarian project in the Tigray area of Ethiopia.

Ms Bowden was originally from Co Donegal and lived with her husband in Africa for a number of years before moving to Galway. Ciara was in first year of secondary school, while Saoirse was a primary school pupil.

Following the incident, the bodies of the deceased were taken to Mayo University Hospital for postmortem examination.

Gardai are appealing for any witnesses to this collision to come forward.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make this footage available to Gardai.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Claremorris Garda Station on 094 9372080, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
Fulani herdsmen killed a pastor and five other Christians in Nasarawa state, central Nigeria in attacks on Friday (March 22) and Sunday (March 24), sources said.

In Keana Countys Kadarko area, community leader Denis Utsa said Fulani herdsmen on Friday attacked the predominantly Christian village of Tse-Abir Azer on Friday (March 22), shooting two Christians to death, including a pastor who died the next day.

The armed Muslim Fulani herdsmen invaded the Tse-Abir Azer area of Kadarko at about 4 p.m., and aside from those killed, dozens of other Christians sustained gunshot wounds, Utsa told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News in a text message. A pastor, Kingsley Orshase, who was shot and injured by the terrorists, was conveyed to a hospital in Lafia on Saturday but died at the hospital due to the fatal wounds he sustained.

On Sunday (March 24) the assailants killed four Christian farmers in the Kadarko area in a second round of attacks, he said.

The death toll now stands at six Christians killed in the two days of attacks, Utsa said. The terrorists also invaded a camp housing displaced Christians, forcing them to flee to Kadarko and Giza towns in the Keana Local Government Area. Some of these displaced Christians sustained life-threatening injuries, and theyre being treated in some hospitals.

Ramhan Nansel, spokesperson for Nasarawa State Police Command, told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News, that officers have been deployed to the area to curtail attacks.

Nigeria remained the deadliest place in the world to follow Christ, with 4,118 people killed for their faith from Oct. 1, 2022 to Sept. 30, 2023, according to Open Doors 2024 World Watch List (WWL) report. More kidnappings of Christians than in any other country also took place in Nigeria, with 3,300.

Nigeria was also the third highest country in number of attacks on churches and other Christian buildings such as hospitals, schools, and cemeteries, with 750, according to the report.

In the 2024 WWL of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, Nigeria was ranked No. 6, as it was in the previous year.

Numbering in the millions across Nigeria and the Sahel, predominantly Muslim Fulani comprise hundreds of clans of many different lineages who do not hold extremist views, but some Fulani do adhere to radical Islamist ideology, the United Kingdoms All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom or Belief (APPG) noted in a 2020 report.

They adopt a comparable strategy to Boko Haram and ISWAP and demonstrate a clear intent to target Christians and potent symbols of Christian identity, the APPG report states.

Christian leaders in Nigeria have said they believe herdsmen attacks on Christian communities in Nigerias Middle Belt are inspired by their desire to forcefully take over Christians lands and impose Islam as desertification has made it difficult for them to sustain their herds.
By David Young, PA

Rose Dugdale, the English aristocrat who led a notorious IRA art heist, had no regrets about turning her back on a life of privilege, her funeral has heard.

Mourners were told that the disinherited heiress, who died earlier this month at the age of 82, always remained an enigma to the British establishment, with her legacy forever interwoven in the story of the republican movement in Ireland.

At the close of her cremation service in Dublin, the curtains were drawn across her coffin to the soundtrack of the Pet Shop Boys hit Its A Sin.

Earlier the coffin had been draped in the Tricolour as it was carried towards the Crematorium Chapel of Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin, led by a lone piper.

Ruairi Gallagher (front right), the son of veteran republican Rose Dugdale, helps carry her coffin to the Crematorium Chapel in Glasnevin (Brian Lawless/PA).

The former IRA prisoners death came just days before a film about her life was released in cinemas.

The rebellious former debutante from Devon rejected the trappings of her early life to join the IRA in the 1970s and went on to mastermind a multimillion-pound fine art heist.

The Oxford graduate was the ringleader of the 1974 IRA raid on the Russborough House estate in Co Wicklow, in which 19 valuable paintings were stolen.

She was involved in other IRA operations during the Troubles, including a failed bid to drop bombs on a police station in Strabane in Co Tyrone, using a helicopter hijacked across the border in Co Donegal.

The republican bombmaker was convicted and sentenced to nine years in prison for her IRA activities. She was pregnant at the time and gave birth to a son, Ruairi, inside Limerick prison.

Her son joined her partner and republican colleague Jim Monaghan at the funeral service on Wednesday.

Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams and several party colleagues were among those in attendance.

The coffin of Rose Dugdale is carried to the Crematorium Chapel (Brian Lawless/PA).

Ms Dugdale had been living in a care home in Dublin in recent years.

Addressing the service from his wheelchair, Mr Monaghan described his partner as a force of nature and an all rounder in revolution, politics and education.

Rose was a woman of many talents, she was well known as an IRA volunteer but she also taught economics and politics and sometimes a bit of philosophy, he said.

Mr Monaghan thanked the staff at the care home for everything they had done in caring for his partner.

Former Sinn Fein Assembly member and MEP Martina Anderson presided over the service on Wednesday afternoon.

She said her friend had a pivotal role in the republican movement.

I stand here with a sore yet proud heart reminded of the remarkable journey I and so many others shared together with Rose in the depths of the Irish republican struggle, she said.

Roses path from a privileged upbringing to the heart of the republican struggle was marked by her insatiable and unwavering commitment to economic equality, social justice and human rights.

Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams was among the mourners (Brian Lawless/PA).

Ms Anderson added: Roses legacy will forever be intertwined with the tapestry of Irelands fight for freedom.

Sinn Fein TD for Dublin South Central Aengus O Snodaigh delivered the eulogy.

Rose was an enigma to the establishment, they couldnt and cant still grasp that somebody could turn their back on privilege in order to help the masses, he said.

If they had spent any time with Rose they would have come away with a clear understanding of how her passion, her drive to help the oppressed, her determination to rebalance the world order was Rose literally putting her money where her mouth was.

Having enjoyed an early life of privilege in England, living with all the trappings of wealth, she went on to reject that life that was being shaped for her and embraced wholeheartedly, with no regrets, a life in struggle against British imperialism and world imperialism.

She was energetic, with a passion for justice, tackling poverty, and seeking the redistribution of wealth and rebalancing of power.

Rose Dugdale rejected the trappings of her early life to join the IRA in the 1970s. Photo: PA

A tribute from Ms Dugdales son Ruairi was read by her long-time friend and republican colleague Marion Coyle at the close of the service.

You will always live on in our hearts and never be forgotten  I love you ma, he stated.

The film telling the story of the art heist, Baltimore, was released in cinemas this month.

Actress Imogen Poots plays Rose Dugdale in the thriller directed by Joe Lawlor and Christine Molloy.
The three victims of a fatal road traffic collision in Co Mayo on Tuesday have been named.

Una Bowden (47) and her daughters Ciara (14) and Saoirse (9) died in the incident on the N17, a short distance from Claremorris, at about 2pm on Tuesday.

The car driven by Ms Bowden was involved in a collision with an articulated lorry.

David Bowden, husband of Una and father to Ciara and Saoirse, is travelling back to Ireland, according to The Irish Times. Mr Bowden is a project manager with the United Nations and had been working on a humanitarian project in the Tigray area of Ethiopia.

The family lived in Gortachalla near Moycullen, a Gaeltacht area in west Galway. Relatives of the deceased have been informed.

It is with enormous sadness that Cumann Cispheile Mhaigh Cuilinn has learned of the tragic deaths of our neighbours and clubmates Una, Ciara, and Saoirse Bowden. The Bowdens were active in many sports throughout our community. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/d4o1fdS9qH  Cumann Cispheile Mhaigh Cuilinn (@moycullenbasket) March 27, 2024

In a social media post on Wednesday evening, local basketball club Cumann Cispheile Mhaigh Cuilinn said: "It is with enormous sadness that Cumann Cispheile Mhaigh Cuilinn has learned of the tragic deaths of our neighbours and clubmates Una, Ciara, and Saoirse Bowden. The Bowdens were active in many sports throughout our community.

"Ciara had been selected for the Galway Area girls under-14 basketball team. The thoughts and prayers of everyone in Cumann Cispheile Mhaigh Cuilinn are with the family, friends, and teammates of the Bowden family.

"We cannot possibly fathom their grief but we send them our love and support. Ar dheis De go raibh a h'anam dilis."

Local councillor Richard Finn described the shock and sadness in the area after the incident.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families. Its just a sad time, he told Newstalk radio.

Cllr Finn said the stretch of road on which the collision took place was straight and had been improved in recent years, but it had previously been a blackspot before a 10 million refurbishment.

The Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Michael Loftus, expressed his disappointment that some members of the public were posting photographs of the crash site on social media on Tuesday night.

It's so disappointing to hear something like that is going on, he told RTE's Morning Ireland. What's wrong with these people going on social media doing this? I think it's a disgrace. And you have to respect the families at this time.  Additional reporting: Vivienne Clarke
Have you ever visited the Winona County History Center? On the outside, it looks formidable  stack on stack of solid brick and a battlements tower above you like an old-time fortress. The building certainly guards something special: the history of Winona County as entrusted to it by the countys people.

However, what holds this organization together is not just the collection of artifacts it protects. Its the relationships built and stories shared in this space that make history live here.

This fact has never been more evident for Winona County History Center than in 2023-24. Behind the scenes this year, a WCHC team (with support from Project FINE and the Friendship Center) journeyed into the county to gather oral histories. The team captured one-of-a-kind accounts from elders in Winona County who have decades of knowledge about the area. As the recorders continue to roll, team members work to make these stories available for public archival research and for use in exhibits at WCHC.

The Partner in History program at WCHC brought similar stories to the public front, thanks to the help of the Sandbar Storytelling Festival. The two organizations co-hosted a free, story-based program in which area businesses and individuals alike recounted their origin narratives for a public audience. Not only did the events educate others about Winona industry and immigration, but they also built community around a shared place and past.

A collaboration with Residents Organizing Against Racism further connected community members around stories and common ground. The community conversations encouraged attendees to talk with one another about positive or negative racial experiences. People traveled from as far as western Minnesota to participate in the conversations, and each attendee left with new perspectives, community allies and resources.

Another moment of togetherness culminated in late February, when WCHC and Art of the Rural co-hosted a public conversation and meal featuring guest speakers from the Honoring Dakota Project in Red Wing. Almost 70 listeners gathered around food and drink at the center to hear speakers from Prairie Island Indian Community, the city of Red Wing and other HDP partner organizations share their process of building community between Dakota people and Red Wing. By working together to forge strong relationships, HDP grew a collaboration that has since brought rich learning experiences in art, culture, history and environmental care to the Red Wing area.

Following this inspiration to share perspectives and create belonging, WCHC launched its $2,250,000 capital campaign on March 1. The campaign serves two equally important purposes: perpetuating history in a place and in a people.

The National Guard Armory turned 109 this year, and understandably, the historic building needs help to keep its nearly 130,000 collection items dry and stable. This means updating brickwork, exterior grading and internal heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems to meet modern museum standards.

Along with repairs to the building, the campaign supports the complete overhaul of the exhibits on display at WCHC. Never-before-heard accounts featuring themes like Made in Winona, Red Lights & Sirens and Honoring Dakota, among others, will bring new artifacts to light and allow the museums 30,000 annual guests to view history from countless different angles.

Most importantly, these projects generate a moment around which individuals of all backgrounds can gather to discover how their stories shape Winona County  because they do. The people joined at the confluence of these conversations are creating the story of the future. Its a story in which we can all see ourselves, and one that we have arrived at together. History, it seems, has never been a thing of the past. History is present.
The Dodge County supervisor in District 31 has a challenger in Tuesdays election. Sup. Kevin Burnett and Steve Rydzewski are on the ballot for the seat that covers a portion of Beaver Dam.

Kevin Burnett

Burnett is a lifelong resident of Dodge County. He is married with one child, who is an agriculture teacher in the Watertown School District.

I have a degree in engineering manufacturing technology, and I am employed as a manager of engineering at a sheet metal fabrication company, Burnett said. I have been a council member on the Beaver Dam City Council for nine years serving on the Administrative Committee, Landmark Committee and Beaver Dam Lake Development Corporation. I am completing my third term on the Dodge County Board serving on the Building Committee, the Information Technology Committee and previously on the ARPA funds committee.

In his spare time, Burnett said he likes to travel, ride his motorcycle and work on race cars, having previously worked on the NASCAR Cup Series and the ASA national touring series. He also likes to support area schools, volunteering when possible and attending school events.

The reason I am running for reelection in the Dodge County 31st District is because I have had many people ask me to run again, they saw how I voted on critical issues in my first three terms as their representative on the county board, Burnett said. Recently I visited my siblings in Florida and the question came up, Why dont you move down to Florida? and the answer would be the same, Relevance. Being on the County Board offers me the chance to help improve the quality of life and safety of all the residents of Dodge County.

Burnett said he believes being on the Dodge County Board along with the Beaver Dam City Council offers him a unique situation where he can act as a conduit between the county and city.

One area where that has proved helpful for the residents of Beaver Dam was when I was on the County ARPA funds committee, I was able to secure a grant through the county that is being used to clean up a blighted, contaminated site and to build affordable housing, Burnett said.

Dodge County is facing some difficult challenges in the next couple of years. The first is the condition of some of the existing buildings, for example the Henry Dodge Building needs extensive work if we are going to continue to use that building to house our Health and Human Services Department. This department services tens of thousands of residents each year, he said

Roads are another big issue. I want to keep helping the Highway Department to reach their goal of repairing or replacing 20-25 miles each year. Staffing is another area that is lacking, although the county has made great strides since the pandemic to fill positions, but one area that still concerns me is the staffing at Clearview. We need to get this problem solved so that we do not have to cut services that benefit our elderly and challenged citizens.

Steve Rydzewski

Rydzewski is also running for a seat on the Beave Dam School Board. He is the father of two daughters and an active member of Harvest Church in Beaver Dam.

Im trying to be involved more now that the girls are out and graduated from high school, Rydzewski said. Im using that time to serve the community more.

He likes to spend his time outdoors with family, and his career has spanned 30 years in the food industry. Rydzewski said he is a manager and most of his years were spent in the cheese-making portion of the industry.

Our country and our community is in crisis, Rydzewski said. Spending is at an all-time high in our government, and it is not sustainable for the taxpayers. Our students have all-time high distractions from learning, and multiple dynamics including the curriculum make learning even more difficult. I care about the future of our country and will represent the people of Beaver Dam with integrity and common sense. My experience and skills will be an asset to our community on both the School Board and County Board.
Mauston will have a new mayor after Tuesdays election who will start the job with familiarity in local government.

Darryl Teske, who represents District 2 on the Mauston Common Council, and Kim Strompolis, a 3rd District supervisor on the Juneau County Board, are vying to succeed Mayor Dennis Nielsen, who is not seeking re-election after two termsfour years. Strompolis is also seeking re-election to his second term on the County Board.

Darryl Teske

Teske has been the council member for District 2 for four years and expressed a passion for service to others. He has served at a religious mission in Costa Rica and worked as a public employee and social worker, as well as volunteered with an area church and nonprofits.

I believe now is an important opportunity to serve, he said. I want to bring together a wide range of voices from our community as we work together to serve our residents and continue to improve our great city.

Supporting city businesses and using tax incremental financing districts to attract new ones are key issues for Teske, along with improving housing availability in the city. Teske also wants to address the citys roads, public works equipment, parks, and water systems.

Evaluating the need for improved services and projects has to be done on a regular basis, according to Teske, who said a municipalitys largest challenge is providing and improving services while being fiscally responsible.

It is important to remember that simply because we have the money budgeted doesnt mean that we need to spend it, he said.

He added that ignoring small issues to save money in the short term can present more expensive challenges in the future.

We must be proactive when we can be, get the most out of our tax dollars, and make the tough decisions when necessary, he said.

Kim Strompolis

Strompolis is a lifelong Mauston resident who has served on the Common Council and the citys Police and Fire Commission. His district on the County Board represents Wards 4 and 5 in Mauston. Strompolis began his law enforcement career with the Mauston Police Department prior to working in the Juneau County Sheriffs Office and has been a volunteer firefighter for the Mauston Fire Department.

I felt my background and experience would lend itself to helping Mauston work its way into the future, he said.

Along with business, employment, and housing development, Strompolis wants to work with area groups, specifically the Guardians of Lake Decorah to improve the city lake and help it reach its real potential.

Strompolis would like to bring people from diverse backgrounds to the citys boards and commissions to gather ideas for the city, for which he praised Nielsen. He added that the city has done well with modernizing infrastructure and can continue to do so while staying within its budget. The city should also seek grant funding to bolster services, he said.

He hopes being on the County Board and serving as mayor can serve as a bridge for residents who use services from both governmental bodies. He added that cooperation between the city and county can save money and increase efficiency.
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Terrorists on March 13 ambushed and killed an African Church pastor, his wife and son along with several other Christians on a highway in Taraba state, northeastern Nigeria, sources said.

The Rev. Abah Jacob, wife Marian Abah and their son were slain with the other Christians near Mararaba on the highway between Gankwe and Mararaba in Donga County, a group of pastors said at a press conference in Jalingo on Saturday (March 23).

Pastor Jacob led the African Church of Kyado Archdeaconry at Adi Parish in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba state, the Rev. Nathaniel Saawua said at the press conference.He said dozens of other Christians were wounded in the attack and were treated at various hospitals.

But since the gruesome murder, it appears to us that nobody is bothered, because not one family member of the victims has been contacted by the authorities, and no official visitation to the families by any government official from Bali or Donga local government councils, Pastor Saawua said.

Among those who were wounded but escaped, some have no finances to sustain their hospital stays, he said.

One person has so far died in the hospital, and some of them have little or nothing to foot the bills of the treatments they are receiving, Pastor Saawua said. While we draw the attention of the authorities concerned to this pathetic and unfortunate situation, we want to call on spirited individuals who are touched by this incident to come to the aid of these victims and the bereaved by providing succor to them to alleviate some of their physical and emotional pains.

The pastors called for investigation into the killing of these Christians.

Church member Apeife Malachi Aondofa said Pastor Jacob and his wife and child were killed in cold blood while they were on pastoral visit to the churchs mission field at Adi parish in the Gazabu area of Bali Local Government Area. The pastor and other Christians traveling alongside them where killed at Mararaba town.

Other church members who sent text messages to Christian Daily International-Morning Star News prior to the press conference also described the assailants as terrorists or Fulani terrorists.

Taraba Gov. Agbu Kefas directed police and other security agencies to investigate.

Nigeria remained the deadliest place in the world to follow Christ, with 4,118 people killed for their faith from Oct. 1, 2022 to Sept. 30, 2023, according to Open Doors 2024 World Watch List (WWL) report. More kidnappings of Christians than in any other country also took place in Nigeria, with 3,300.

Nigeria was also the third highest country in number of attacks on churches and other Christian buildings such as hospitals, schools, and cemeteries, with 750, according to the report.

In the 2024 WWL of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, Nigeria was ranked No. 6, as it was in the previous year.

Numbering in the millions across Nigeria and the Sahel, predominantly Muslim Fulani comprise hundreds of clans of many different lineages who do not hold extremist views, but some Fulani do adhere to radical Islamist ideology, the United Kingdoms All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom or Belief (APPG) noted in a 2020 report.

They adopt a comparable strategy to Boko Haram and ISWAP and demonstrate a clear intent to target Christians and potent symbols of Christian identity, the APPG report states.

Christian leaders in Nigeria have said they believe herdsmen attacks on Christian communities in Nigerias Middle Belt are inspired by their desire to forcefully take over Christians lands and impose Islam as desertification has made it difficult for them to sustain their herds.
A research paper claiming that an ancient site in Indonesia is home to the worlds oldest pyramid has become a major point of controversy in the academic field of archaeology. The paper states that humans built the pyramid-like structure, and if true, it would drastically alter our understanding of ancient human history. The only thing is, a lot of scholars arent buying it.

The paper made some serious claims

Published in 2023, the paper claims to have made some discoveries about the Gunung Padang in West Java, Indonesia. Through ground-penetrating radar surveys and radiocarbon dating, the authors say that they determined that the prehistoric pyramid structure dates as far back as 27,000 years ago. If true, this would make it the oldest known pyramid by a long shot, as that title is currently held by the Pyramid of Djoser, which is dated 4,700 years old.

Previous estimates dated the Gunung Padang settlements at 6,000 years old, but the authors of this paper are saying that they have compelling evidence to prove it to have multi-layer construction dating farther back with meticulously sculpted rocks they believe were arranged in a planned way. Their soil samples serve as evidence for such claims. However, the paper has become rather controversial in the academic field.

The paper might not have become so controversial if it werent for the major claims it is making that would change the way we have always understood ancient humans in this area. The authors claim that the megalithic site included a pyramid that was actually built by humans. This would mean that the ancient human societies we believe were living in small hunter-gatherer communities at this time, using only basic tools, were actually far more advanced and, as the paper states, must have possessed remarkable masonry capabilities, which do not align with the traditional hunter-gatherer cultures.

The publishers retracted the paper

Not long after its publication, the paper was met with skeptics. Bill Farley, an archaeologist from Southern Connecticut State University, said that the research provides no evidence that a human settlement existed during the last Ice Age. He explained that while the soil may have dated back to 25,000 years ago, the samples themselves do not contain any evidence of human activity. Archaeologist Flint Dibble from Cardiff University said, Im surprised [the paper] was published as is, given such a serious claim.

Given the massive pushback and academic criticisms the paper received, the publishers ultimately retracted the paper in March 2024. They said, Following publication of this article, concerns were raised by third parties with expertise in geophysics, archaeology, and radiocarbon dating, about the conclusions drawn by the authors based on the evidence reported. The retraction is largely based on one major error.

The publishers said, This error, which was not identified during peer review, is that the radiocarbon dating was applied to soil samples that were not associated with any artifacts or features that could be readily interpreted as anthropogenic or man-made. Therefore, the interpretation that the site is an ancient pyramid built 9,000 or more years ago is incorrect, and the article must be retracted.

What other scholars are saying about their conclusions

Many leading archaeologists are questioning how such a paper even made it past peer review and into print, given the lack of evidence to support its claims. While experts can agree that there is evidence of human activity in the area, research shows that it can only be dated to the last few hundred years or so  nowhere near 27,000 years ago. Others, like Dibble, say that natural movement and weathering can sculpt the rocks they said were shaped by humans and that their planned placement could be explained by simply rolling down hills.

However, despite the criticisms, the authors of the paper are steadfastly defending their findings. Danny Natawidjaja, the papers lead author, is calling the retraction a severe form of censorship. They are saying the action is unjust and based on unfounded claims raised by third parties who hold differing opinions and disbelieve in the evidence, analysis, and conclusions.

There is also a political angle that has been added to the mix of the papers controversy. Apparently, the Indonesian government has been providing funding to establish the narrative that Gunung Padang was an ancient pyramid for more than a decade now. With the site serving as a popular tourist destination for those practicing Islamic and Hindu rituals, such a narrative helps to increase visits to the area.

More from us: Graffiti Artists Took Over These Abandoned Luxury Towers In Los Angeles

The whole ordeal has stirred up quite a bit of controversy, but as Noel Tan, a Bangkok archaeologist, told The New York Times, It was unfortunate that the paper had to get to this stage. But it was better to be retracted than to have nothing said about it at all.
Pastor John Cao from Hunan, who was imprisoned for seven years in Yunnan, China, was released on March 4, 2024. He was escorted from Kunming, Yunnan province, to Changsha, Hunan province, by four police officers.

The world outside the prison walls changes rapidly, and perhaps Pastor Cao needs to adapt to a new life. His wife awaits to be reunited in the United States, and he will need to apply for travel documents. Local police have disclosed that they will supervise and educate him for five years.

Below is Pastor Caos first testimony after his release, transcribed and edited by China Aid Association based on an audio recording sourced from the internet. To ensure clarity of the original intent, subheadings, and paragraphs have been added for clarity. Christian Daily International is republishing the testimony with permission, so its global audience would benefit from this first-hand account of Pastor Caos experience in China.

Preface

I have been separated from you all for seven years, but these seven years have been filled with joy, filled with Gods grace, and everyday Gods special presence has been with me. Truly, even though I walked through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for we know that the Lord Jesus is with us, and brothers and sisters are with me too!

Part 1: Prayers that transcend the prison walls

I wake up every morning at 5:00 a.m., automatically waking up; there are no clocks inside the prison, but I always wake up at 5 oclock; sometimes even earlier at 4:00 a.m.. They [the surveillance personnel] dont allow me to pray, so I pray by turning sideways, because I can still pray while lying on my side.

Every day, there are three people with me during the day  around me, and they dont allow me to talk to anyone. At night, one person is standing beside me, watching me sleep, afraid that I might get up at night to pray, or do something else? So, there is always someone with me 24 hours a day. Its not allowed if someone greets me when I go out, they will be punished, but of course, they dont punish me, they punish the three people who are in charge of me and say that theyre not doing a good job monitoring me.

In this very lonely and isolated situation, I have never lost my joy, nor have I ever felt very lonely. I know that behind me, the Holy Spirit provides me with strength, and I have brothers and sisters from all over the country and the world with me.

My mother comes to see me every month, and my sister sends me letters every month, and every letter mentions that everyone is praying for me. Half a month ago, I took out all the letters my mother sent me. There were 90 letters written to me in Kunming Prison, but I only received 31 letters. What happened to some of the letters? They were intercepted and not given to me. But why werent they given to me? Because the letters mentioned that so and so were praying for me, they were not given to me.

On May 7, 2023, my mother came to see me for the first time after the pandemic. She couldnt visit me during the pandemic. She said, Pastor Yuan is praying for you. The monitoring center was listening in, and as soon as they heard that, they cut off my call. The visit was interrupted. My mother took a train from Changsha and traveled for twenty hours and could only see me for three minutes. Why? Because she mentioned that Pastor Yuan is praying for you, and these people are very afraid of the word prayer. I dont know why.

My mother started to cry there because we hadnt seen each other for so long. We used to video chat, but now we can meet face to face, of course, separated by a window.

Since some people are so afraid of prayer, it shows that prayer is effective. Otherwise, why would they be so afraid? Although we only said a few words, two words are enough, that is, prayer for each other, communication in the Lord, and together we testify for the kingdom of God.

The greatest joy of Gods children in this world, the only hope, the meaning of our lives, our greatest hope is not in this world. Every morning when I wake up, all I can do is pray. The first thing I did when I entered prison was say to them, would you please give me a Bible? They laughed contemptuously, How could you make such a request, as if its unthinkable, You have no rights in our prison. I said, Okay then.

So I rely on my mothers letters. She writes a few sentences of the Bible to me each time, but if she writes too much, they wont give me the letter. If its just two or three sentences, its okay. In the end, I received ninety letters, but I was not allowed to take them with me when I was released. I said, Are these not my things? The letters are from my mother, and the envelopes were bought with my mothers money. The things are for me, and when I want to take them with me, Im not allowed to? These are my most precious things. But I still couldnt take them with me.

During the seven years in prison, every day was filled with joy. I woke up at five oclock to pray and sing hymns, and God would also speak to me. I greatly admire Sister Xiaomin; she wrote many hymns of praise. I dont have her gift, I just write a few lines of poetry. During the day, I record them and send them to my mother, but she often doesnt receive them.

In 2023, I wrote a three-page letter to my mother every week, there were at least 52 letters. My mother probably received about 30 letters, so some were not received. But thats okay; we had a few letters sent out, and are very grateful to the Lord for that.

I know that brothers and sisters are praying for me, and the Holy Spirit gives me strength; for seven years, everyone has been praying for me continuously; this is the motivation that allows me to pass through the valley of death joyfully and triumphantly.

Part 2: Never bow down to authority

Now, Ive just returned. According to the sentence, I was released on March 4. Normally, the release would have to wait until 9:00 or 10:00 a.m. on March 4, when they go to work. But I had to return to Changsha from Kunming. I didnt have an ID card, and I couldnt take a plane and couldnt take a train. The prison was quite thoughtful, although they didnt return my letters to me, they were still quite humane with this. At midnight on the 4th, just ten minutes past zero, they processed my release and let me go. I didnt even know how to get back to Changsha. They specially prepared a car, with four police officers taking turns driving continuously, and they drove me from Kunming to Changsha in one go. They took me to a subordinate agency of the Changsha Judicial Bureau, probably the Changsha Police Station, for a handover procedure.

I actually arrived in Changsha at 2:30 a.m. However, they were long-winded, and began to educate me again, For five years, (they) will educate me regularly, educating me not to commit crimes again.

I said, Officer, thank you. But we need to clarify our position. I have not committed any crimes, so there is no need for you to educate me. We are good friends. If you want to come visit, anytime is fine, you are welcome to come as a guest. There is no need for education, I have not committed any crimes. My lawyer, my God (righteousness), will litigate for me.

Although this lawsuit is meaningless, do they hold the power? We do not place our hope in secular power, but we still need to clarify our position because we have not committed any crimes, right?

I said, You are welcome to come. You can come anytime as we are good friends. If you invite me, I can come too, but we have not committed any crimes between us.

Wa State in Myanmar is very very poor. Brothers and sisters from all over the country have helped them. We teach Chinese and spread Chinese culture there. The drugs on that border, 100 percent of them come from over there, and when we were in Wa, we all advised them not to bring the drugs over here; the three men who were supervising me in the prison, they were all drug lords, they were all drug lords who were serving life sentences. What I do, what all Christians do, is to love the country, to love the people, to tell the Burmese not to bring drugs into our country.

We helped them establish drug rehabilitation centers and helped them build schools, all for free. And the people around me, especially in the detention center, eighty percent of them are involved in drugs, and the sentences for drug offenses are very heavy, all of them are life sentences. We are actually helping these people, so what crime are we committing? We have not committed any crimes, no matter from which angle you look at it. I told the officer this.

The officer said, I only believe the judge. If the judge determines that you are guilty, then you are guilty.

I said, You can also think like that, Im not saying youre wrong. But, whether a person has committed a crime is actually determined by people from four aspects.

First, the judge, does he think you are guilty? Will he sentence you?

Second, the defendant himself. Does he think he has committed a crime? In this Kunming prison, there is a man living next to me who was accused of murder. He said, I didnt kill anyone. There is a lot of evidence to prove that I didnt kill anyone, but the judge still sentenced him to life imprisonment. This man has been in prison for 26 years, and he has never admitted guilt. The prison told him, As long as you admit guilt, we will release you, but he didnt admit guilt. This mans name is He Xiuguang. In the end, he was released because the investigation found that he was innocent. He spent 26 years in prison, compared to my 7 years, so I say He Xiuguang is my role model . The defendant [Pastor Cao] and my lawyer do not think I have committed a crime.

Third, the public, that is, whether the jury believes I am guilty or not. In many countries, there is a jury, but we do not have a jury in our country, but the trial is open to the public, everyone can come and watch, which means it is a fair and open trial, this is what the law requires, fair, just, and open. I said, In this world, probably only ten people think I am guilty, that is you few judges and police officers (laughs), the vast majority think I am innocent, this is a big jury.

Fourth, it is the heavens, as the Chinese say, Whatever people do, the heavens are watching. Chinese people believe that the final judgment is from the heavens, the heavens that Chinese people refer to is not the weather. The heavens Chinese are referring to is the father, which refers to our Heavenly Father, ultimately the Heavenly Father is the one who determines whether a person is guilty or not.

There are four aspects to determine guilt or innocence, now only you few judges think I am guilty, I do not think I am guilty, my lawyer believes one hundred percent that I am innocent, and all the evidence proves you [Pastor Cao] are innocent. You know, my lawyer is from Fuzhou, he came all the way from Xiamen, Fujian, and when we were in court, he was not allowed to say a word, why did you even notify him to come? At least you could have saved us some money, why did you call him to come? Because there was a camera next to him? Did the defense lawyer come just for show? Not allowing the lawyer to speak a word, not allowing me to speak a word.

The lawyer said, You are one hundred percent innocent. All the evidence and witnesses say there is no guilt, isnt that the case? But the police, the entire jury, the big jury, everyone, not just Christians, but also many non-Christians have written letters for me to prove my innocence. Our God also thinks I am innocent, as Christians, we must live up to God, and we must live up to the people. Amongst our brothers, we should also have a clear conscience towards each other, and we should be of one mind.

Part 3: More willing to be broken and molded

At that time, although there was a high wall trying to block the power of God, the power of God pierced through the high wall, and every day I felt the presence of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit with me, and I felt the presence of my brothers and sisters. Each and every single one of you here, we love God, we love our neighbors, and our Lord loves us. Everything I did could be put out in the open, instead, those who misunderstand us do things that are hard to bring out and say publicly.

Of course, I do not complain about these people. We look at history, starting with the Lord Jesus, if he was not misunderstood and attacked by this world, then the cross would be meaningless. The meaning of the cross is that when God loved the world, He gave His one and only begotten Son, and then, let us experience how much God loves us, His love is long, wide, deep, and high. At this time, we endure hardships, and we also feel joy, for God has made us feel that it is a wonderful thing to rejoice with the Lord when He comes.

Before, I didnt understand why Wang Mingdao was released, just signed something and he could come out. He really walked out, but later he ran back, which was a bit foolish. According to todays standards, this is foolish. I said when I was in prison, I had a wonderful communion with the saints. Now I realize why Wang Mingdao was willing to go back to prison and suffer. This is called the benefit of those who love God, and the first person to benefit is ourselves, I wouldnt have known it if I hadnt gone through these sufferings.

Now I am more willing to have my life broken. Before, I wondered how can we become a perfect and flawless person as the Bible says? After seven years of suffering, because God is with me, so becoming a flawless person is something we can achieve, not something we cannot achieve because it is not something we can do on our own, it is the strength that God gives us to help us.

Epilogue: i want life to continue, prayer to never cease

Thanks be to the Lord, I have written some poems, but they are not good enough to be revealed yet, many brothers and sisters have encouraged me, and I also know it is to help me receive God better inside (prison). I plan to spend some time organizing them.

And as much as possible, in appropriate circumstances, if you, my brothers and sisters, are willing to accept me, I am happy to share; at that time, in the end, times, what is most important.

I have been out of touch with society for these seven years, I dont know a lot of things. The police officer told me, This thing is for this purpose, that thing is for that purpose, I dont know any of it.

Brothers and sisters, no matter how the material world changes, no matter how prosperous it becomes, human nature does not change, and Gods grace does not change. I am willing to visit everyone, if there is a need on your end, now I have made up my mind to always be ready to share my hope with anyone, and I am also happy to visit you all in the future, to continue to receive everyones prayers and encouragement.

Today, this is our small conclusion, but we will continue. My lawyer told me in prison, You are not alone in prison, so our prayers must continue. There are other brothers and sisters who need our prayers. We cannot stop.

We must continue to move forward. Some people ask, What will you do after you are released? I am 65 years old this year and could retire, but as a servant of God, there is no retirement. We must continue to testify for the Lord until we meet Him face to face. For me, there is no talk of retirement. I want life to continue, and prayer to never cease. I have many, many things to say here, but I think everyone is tired, so lets slowly count the blessings in the future.

Pastor Cao's prayer for China

Gracious Lord, we thank You. Oh, Lord, with your presence, no one is separated from your love, whether in distress, poverty, tribulation, or sword. Lord, You are always with us. We thank You. We have never met, but it is Your Spirit that brings us together as if we have known each other for years, because we are one family. In this joyful moment, let us not forget other brothers and sisters, those in prison, witnessing for you. Let us pray for those imprisoned as we put ourselves in their shoes. Here, we set out again. Todays journey is not the end, but the beginning. Lord, in you, we have a wonderful time, and in the future, we will encourage each other and communicate face to face. Lord, we once again entrust our beautiful country to God and bless our compatriots. Let us use the best way possible to lead them to know the Lord. This is the best blessing. May glory and the kingdom belong to the Lord Jesus Christ. Hallelujah, Amen.





Originally published by China Aid Association. Republished with permission.
Paper knife cuttings inheritor in east China's Zhejiang

Xinhua) 11:17, March 27, 2024

This undated photo shows a paper knife cutting artwork of blue-and-white porcelain by Lu Faliang in Yueqing City, east China's Zhejiang Province. (Xinhua)

YUEQING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Paper knife cutting, a folk artwork popular in Yueqing City in China's southeast coastal area, is originated from paper cutting on local dragon lanterns. Boasting of its delicacy, the artwork displays folk patterns on a paper of several square centimeters.

This photo taken on March 13, 2024 shows a paper knife cutting made by Lu Faliang in Yueqing City, east China's Zhejiang Province. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)

This photo taken on March 13, 2024 shows a paper knife cutting made by Lu Faliang in Yueqing City, east China's Zhejiang Province. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)

Going through complicated procedures which cost at least one week to complete, it reflects the local ocean culture and folk customs. Its making craft was listed as a national-level intangible cultural heritage in 2006.

This photo taken on March 12, 2024 shows tools that Lu Faliang uses for making paper knife cuttings in Yueqing City, east China's Zhejiang Province. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)

Lu Faliang makes a paper knife cutting at his studio in Yueqing City, east China's Zhejiang Province, March 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)

Lu Faliang, 76, an inheritor of the craft, has been engaged in the art for over 50 years. In his career, he not only makes traditional paper knife cuttings, but also creates new ones which reflect modern life and local culture. He set up a Yueqing paper cutting seminar in 1985 and a Yueqing dragon lantern paper knife cutting institute in 2003.

Lu Faliang mounts a paper knife cutting at his studio in Yueqing City, east China's Zhejiang Province, March 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)

Lu Faliang makes a paper knife cutting at his studio in Yueqing City, east China's Zhejiang Province, March 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)

Creating and collecting artworks, he also brings them to classes opened in local schools and communities, aiming to let more people to get in touch and fall in love with the traditional art. Nowadays, he has altogether accepted 16 apprentices, with whom he often holds exhibitions and designs souvenirs on paper knife cuttings.

Lu Faliang reads in search of inspirations for his new paper knife cutting works at his studio in Yueqing City, east China's Zhejiang Province, March 12, 2024. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)

This undated photo shows a paper knife cutting artwork of blue-and-white porcelain by Lu Faliang in Yueqing City, east China's Zhejiang Province. (Xinhua)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Recent data from a United Nations report on Migration Dynamics, Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons in Africa sheds light on the migration dynamics within Africa, revealing a continent experiencing significant movement both within its borders and beyond.

Attitudes towards migrants have varied over time and in different countries but in politicized environments and at times of economic difficulty, they are often perceived as a challenge, burden or even threat to communities in the host countries. The Church, however, has played and can continue to play a unique and vital role in reaching and serving migrants, according to experts.

According to the UNs data, over 31 million Africans have migrated from their birth countries, with a majority opting to remain within Africa itself. Contrary to common perceptions, intra-regional migration dominates, particularly in west and southern Africa, and only about 25 percent of African migrants head to Europe, the report states.

The factors driving migration are diverse and complex. Economic disparities, conflict, persecution, and environmental challenges are among the key contributors pushing individuals and families to seek new horizons.

Multiple reports and studies have been published on the topic in recent times, confirming trends and reasons why people choose or are forced to leave their countries.

An Africa Centre for Strategic Studies report published earlier this year notes that African migration continues to experience persistent upward pressures  extending a 20-year pattern. Limited economic opportunity, conflict, repressive government, growing youth populations, and climate change are the primary drivers behind the approximately one million new migrants over the past year, it says.

This adds to the 43 million African migrants overall according to their estimates. A majority of these, mostly young and single migrants, remain on the continent in pursuit of employment opportunities in urban hubs. Others seek jobs outside the continent, primarily in the Middle East and Europe, though Africans comprise just 6.6 percent and 8.2 percent of all migrants in those regions respectively.

In an analysis of migration trends in Africa, New South Institute research consultant Michael Mutava highlights that migration in Africa is complex and multifaceted, with a range of push and pull factors that drive people to move within and outside the continent. He says, While there are challenges and risks associated with migration, including exploitation and human rights abuses, migration is also a vital source of economic and social development for individuals, communities, and countries. It should be facilitated rather than suppressed.

Serving refugees as an opportunity for the Church

Among the migrants, which is a more general term used for anyone not living in their home country for whatever reason, there are those who are forced to flee and are thus considered refugees. According to the United Nations, A refugee is strictly defined in international law as a person who is fleeing persecution or conflict in her or his country of origin.

Current data estimates refugees and internally displaced people to number around 108 million globally, the majority of which (76 percent) are hosted by low- and middle-income countries.

In an article published by the Overseas Ministries Study Centres International Bulletin of Mission Research, Cindy Wu, who serves as program director at a refugee center, commented on migration trends and the Churchs response based on data in the third edition of the World Christian Encyclopedia. She observed that ministry to refugees must first confront and address barriers to welcoming them.

The author of A Better Country: Embracing the Refugees in Our Midst and co-author with Todd Johnson of Our Global Families: Christians Embracing Common Identity in a Changing World, Wu comments that such barriers include fear of refugees as other, concerns over economic impact and demographic change, and a mind-set of scarcity. It is hard to welcome someone if we see them as a threat or a burden. Many countries rely on migrant workers for their economy but draw the line when it comes to resettlement and the potential of resultant change in cultural identity.

Unfortunately, resettlement for refugees  which is defined as providing them with permanent residence status  is often viewed as unrealistic leaving many with a feeling of being stuck, Wu comments.

Alessandro Gusman, who explored the intersection of religion, affect, and power within modern nation-states, uses a similar expression. He delves into the experiences of Congolese refugees residing in Kampala, Uganda. Amidst the challenges of displacement, Gusman contends that these refugees draw upon the theological affects of trust and hope, finding solace and meaning within a Christian narrative. However, as the refugee crisis persists, Gusman observes a transition from hope to a sense of "stuckness" among these individuals.

Wu points out that followers of Christ have historically played a significant role in welcoming refugees and providing for their needs globally and can continue to make a difference today. Churches are more than capable of providing robust assistance with refugee integration. In light of the movement of God and his people, let us be radical and ready to fulfil the mission of God by welcoming the stranger, she writes.
Explore digital media's future at Adtech Today's launch, spotlighting collaboration and innovation in DigiAdCon 2024

Last week in Mumbai, Adtech Today was launched at DigiAdcon 2024, with MMA Global India as the association partner, spotlighting the future of digital media. Adtech Today, a dynamic initiative by ADScholars, offers global video updates, insightful blogs and guest contributions, and candid interviews to keep the community informed. It's a platform where industry leaders share experiences, ensuring users stay ahead of industry trends. What sets Adtech Today apart is its emphasis on collaboration, evident in every shared story and insight, sparking intrigue to delve deeper into its offerings.

Spearheaded by Srikanth Rayaprolu, CEO, and Founder of ADScholars, Adtech Today emerged from practical insights and real-world experiences. His vision for a platform focused on substance over style set the tone for the event.

Ankit Banga, Chief Business Officer at FCB/SIX, and Tanya Saihgal, Lead of Content & PR at MMA Global India, joined for a candid chat on "Digital Next: Innovation and Engagement," where they explored digital transformations and the crucial role of AI in audience engagement. Banga emphasized, "Use AI to form a base, not to form a solution," highlighting the significance of leveraging AI as a foundational tool in digital strategies.

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere, a highlight of the event was the felicitation segment "Scholars of Media and Advertising" honored individuals and companies leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Ameer Ismail, President of Lintas Live, MullenLowe Lintas Group, was celebrated for his transformative contributions to the PR industry, and recognized as a Stalwart Leader in PR and Communications. Vishnu Kanth Gokul, Chief Growth Officer at Two99, was honored as a community builder for his remarkable efforts in fostering a vibrant digital ecosystem.

Ankoor Dasguupta, Chief Marketing Officer at Shisham Digital, received the Digital Kaizen Leader award for his relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation in digital marketing. Shailja Saraswati, Chief Content Officer at Omnicom Media Group, India, was honored as the Woman Advertising Maven for her visionary leadership in crafting impactful storytelling solutions.

White Rivers Media, a dynamic digital marketing agency, received accolades for its innovative strategies and impactful campaigns, solidifying its position as an independent powerhouse in the industry.

The unveiling of the Adtech Today magazine by the honored guests emphasized the platform's role as a key source for industry insights and expert analysis.

The keynote session led by Moneka Khurana, Country Head at MMA Global India, provided invaluable insights into the State of AI in Marketing, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of AI adoption and its implications for marketers.

The event ended with a lively panel discussion featuring industry experts like Kosal Malladi, Madison Loop; Reena Jagtap, Henkel; Shetanshu Dikshit, Pernod Ricard; Shrenik Gandhi, White Rivers Media, and Ankoor Dasguupta, Shisham Digital as the esteemed panellists moderated by Srikanth Rayaprolu, exploring AI's transformative power in content creation, brand storytelling, and campaign personalization.

DigiAdCon 2024 by Adtech Today, concluded with a strong emphasis on innovation and collaboration, inspiring attendees to continue driving progress in digital advertising.
Baroda BNP Paribas Asset Management India Pvt. Ltd., a distinguished leader in the Mutual Fund industry, is delighted to announce the launch of its new Investor Education Campaign that includes an engaging digital film titled "Be Adaptive with Balanced Advantage Funds."

This film is light-hearted and designed to raise awareness about the benefits of investing in Balanced Advantage Funds (BAFs) while promoting financial literacy among investors. The narrative, encapsulated in the film #BeAdaptive, interestingly draws parallels between the dilemmas we face in our day-to-day life, and the confusion of choosing between multiple investment options. The film illustrates how the task of choosing between various options can be often overwhelming. Thankfully, in the investment world, there exists a harmonious solution - Balanced Advantage Funds (BAFs).

The extension of the thought Be Adaptive" in Out of Home (OOH), Print and social media is influenced by nature. The sunflower, which naturally adapts to the sun's movement and flourishes, similarly, the Balanced Advantage Fund adapts itself according to market movements and aims to assist you in striking a balance between wealth creation through equity and stability through debt allocation.

"We are excited to introduce our new campaign, 'Be Adaptive with Balanced Advantage Funds,' as part of our comprehensive Investor Education initiatives. In today's dynamic market landscape, adaptability is key to successful investment strategies. Through this educational initiative, we strive to equip investors with the knowledge they need to effectively navigate the complexities of the financial markets. stated Megha Parte, Head of Marketing at Baroda BNP Paribas Asset Management India Pvt. Ltd.

With Balanced Advantage Funds, market fluctuations become less of a concern. These funds are tailored to navigate the ups and downs, offering enhanced risk management along with the prospect of growth. Thus, with BAF by your side, the mantra is simple: Embrace adaptability, embrace growth. BeAdaptive added Megha Parte.

The campaign will reach the masses via OOH, Digital platforms such as Meta, Youtube, MIQ and company's multiple social media channels like YouTube, Instagram, Linkedin and Facebook.
There are many options on the market when it comes to buying a family vehicle. Nonetheless, most families take into account two important considerations before making their ultimate choice: price and practicality. This blog post will compare and contrast the Exter and Tiago, two well-liked family vehicles, based on their respective pricing. We'll review the salient characteristics, technical details, and  above all  the pricing range, including the ex-showroom and on-road expenses, to make informed decisions.

Overview of Hyundai Exter

The Exter is an affordable car model manufactured by a reputable South Korean automaker. It has a reliable engine, roomy cabins, and outstanding fuel efficiency. This means families on a tight budget may find the base variant of Exter appealing since its ex-showroom pricing starts at Rs. 6 lakhs.

Overview of Tata Tiago

The Tiago, produced by an Indian automaker, is another well-liked option for families searching for an affordable vehicle. It delivers good performance, comfortable features, and a sleek, contemporary style. The base variant's ex-showroom pricing begins at Rs. 5 lakhs. Additionally, if you are considering an eco-friendly option, the Tata Tiago is available in an EV variant with two battery pack options, all offered at a competitive price. The Tiago EV price ranges from Rs. 8.55 lakhs and goes up to Rs. 12.65 lakhs.

Price and Fuel Types

The table below shows the Hyundai Exter on road price and Tiago price:

Engine Specs and Mileage

In terms of engine and transmission choices, the Tata Tiago and Hyundai Exter are evenly matched with a 1.2-litre petrol engine and the option of a 5-speed manual and AMT gearbox for convenience. Both models also offer a CNG powertrain option, making them stand out in the market. The Hyundai Exter has a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 83PS/113Nm (petrol) and 69PS/95Nm (CNG), while the Tata Tiago has a similar 1.2-litre petrol engine with outputs of 86PS/113Nm (petrol) and 73PS/93Nm (CNG).

The CNG versions of the Tata Tiago and Hyundai Exter have less power than their petrol equivalents but offer excellent fuel efficiency, with Tata claiming 19kmpl to 26.49 km/kg and Hyundai claiming 19.20kmpl to 26km/kg for both fuel options. The fuel economy figures are closely matched, making it difficult to determine a clear winner in this regard.

Dimensions

Size is a key factor differentiating the Hyundai Exter from the Tata Tiago. The Exter has a notable advantage in terms of dimensions over the Tiago because it is a micro-SUV. Regardless of the measure, such as length, breadth, height, or wheelbase, the Exter is unquestionably the larger vehicle in this comparison by a significant amount. With its massive 391 litres of boot space compared to the Tiago's 242 litres, the Hyundai Exter will undoubtedly win over more hearts in this department as well.

Hyundai Exter vs Tata Tiago: Safety Features

Safety is often overlooked by many car makers today. Still, Hyundai and Tata have equipped the Exter and Tiago well with essential safety features like airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, etc. Furthermore, the Tiago achieved an impressive 4-star rating in the Global NCAP crash test, showcasing its crashworthiness. Similarly, Hyundai didn't compromise on safety features for the Exter, including ISOFIX support, auto headlamps, vehicle stability management, and six airbags, including curtain airbags, which is a first in its segment.

Pros and Cons of Exter and Tata Tiago

Hyundai Exter Pros

Comes with a smooth and refined engine

Ride quality is comfortable

Cabin space is generous

Ample features

Cons

The performance of the engine on the highway is average

The cabin width is suited only for 2 occupants at the rear

Pros of Tata Tiago

Climate control and rearview camera

Attractive design

Auto-folding wing mirrors

4-star in Global NCAP Safety Test

Cons

Not spacious

Three-cylinder engines lack punch and are noisy

The Bottom Line

Choosing a family automobile can be difficult, especially with a limited budget. Families in India frequently choose Exter and Tiago since they both provide appealing features at reasonable costs. But before deciding, be sure to test drive both vehicles and consider your unique requirements to determine which would be best for you and your family.










SLMG Group, India's largest independent bottler of Coca-Cola in India and SouthWest Asia, today announced the appointment of Costin Mandrea as Chief Executive Officer of Coca-Cola SLMG operations. With more than 25 years of rich experience in the beverage industry, Mr Mandrea brings a wealth of expertise and strategic vision to his new role.

Costin Mandrea has held key leadership positions at Coca-Cola Bottling System in Western and Central Europe, Russia, and Japan, where he demonstrated expertise in driving business growth through company-wide transformation, sales force operations, customer engagement, and route-to-market strategies.

Commenting on the appointment, S N Ladhani, Chairman and Managing Director, Coca-Cola SLMG said, "With great pleasure, we welcome Costin Mandrea aboard as the CEO of SLMG Group. His proven track record of leadership and strategic acumen makes him a perfect fit to lead our company into its next phase of expansion and success.  Amidst our accelerated growth phase at SLMG Group, we firmly believe Costin to be the perfect leader to navigate us towards unprecedented success. With his proven track record and dynamic approach, we are poised to achieve remarkable milestones under his guidance, added Mr. Ladhani.

Upon his appointment, Mr. Mandrea remarked, ``I am honored and excited to join Coca-Cola SLMG as its Chief Executive Officer. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team and leveraging my experience to drive innovation and growth for the company.

Mr. Mandrea holds a degree from the University of Bucharest and has participated in numerous leadership development programs throughout his career. His tenure at Coca-Cola has been marked by successful transformation initiatives and strategic leadership roles, contributing significantly to the companys profitability and market presence.

Coca-Cola SLMG extends its warmest congratulations to Mr. Costin Mandrea on his appointment as Chief Executive Officer and looks forward to achieving new milestones under his leadership.
eClerx Services Ltd (ECLX:IN) eClerx has announced the appointment of Karolina Kocalevski as its new Global Chief Marketing Officer. In her role, Karolina will serve as the chief brand ambassador for the company and will be responsible for the overall development and execution of the global brand, marketing, and PR strategy. Her role will be instrumental in elevating the companys brand positioning and accelerating growth initiatives. She will be based in New York City.

Karolina has spent over 20 years in the global B2B marketing sphere, including seven years on leadership teams in the US. She has demonstrated experience in building brand equity and successfully driving growth through account-based-marketing (ABM) and demand generation initiatives.

Karolina brings a wealth of experience from large global enterprises such as PwC, Thomson Reuters, McGraw-Hill and Deloitte, along with mid-sized private equity backed companies. She most recently served on the leadership team of Orion Innovation as VP, Global Head of Marketing and Communications, overhauling the companys corporate brand and marketing function. Karolina holds an MBA from the Johnson School at Cornell University and a Bachelor of Business (Accounting, International Marketing) from the University of Technology, Sydney. Her diverse background and track record of success make her a valuable addition to the eClerx leadership team.

Speaking on the appointment, Kapil Jain, Group CEO for eClerx said, We are pleased to welcome Karolina to eClerx. Her ability to drive innovation and deliver results makes her the ideal candidate to lead our global marketing efforts. Her leadership and expertise will be instrumental in shaping the company's marketing strategy and driving continued success.

I am delighted to be joining eClerx in this new role and exciting chapter of innovation and growth at the company, said Karolina. I look forward to working with the talented team at eClerx and advancing the marketing efforts to boost global brand recognition and organic revenue growth.
A new report by consumer research company GWI reveals that while streaming services are on the rise, traditional broadcast TV remains the king of British media consumption. According to the study, nearly two-thirds (64%) of Britons' TV viewing time is dedicated to live broadcasts, compared to just 36% for online streaming services.

However, the data also highlights a shift in viewing habits among younger demographics. GWI's report indicates that 13% of Gen Z viewers reported not watching any broadcast TV on a typical day in late 2023. This suggests a growing preference for on-demand content among this age group.

The report offers valuable insights for brands and marketers looking to connect with specific audiences:

Gen Z Embraces AI for Discovery: The explosive popularity of AI tools like ChatGPT has transformed how younger generations search for information. Notably, 40% of 16-26 year olds use ChatGPT to find what they're looking for, making it one of their top three search methods.

Social Media Drives Shopping for Gen Z: Social media platforms are crucial for Gen Z, especially when it comes to shopping. They are the only generation to prioritize social media over search engines for product discovery. With over a fifth (21%) of 12-15 year olds reporting using social media primarily for finding things to buy, this trend is likely to continue with the upcoming Gen Alpha.

Underrepresentation in Traditional Media: The study highlights a lack of diversity in traditional media channels. Ethnic minority groups reported a stronger preference for influencer recommendations over traditional advertising compared to the average consumer. This suggests a potential underrepresentation of these demographics in mainstream media, with over 22% of ethnic minority consumers finding influencer suggestions most relevant on social media, compared to just 14% of all consumers.

Price Takes Center Stage: The report also found a significant shift in consumer priorities when it comes to advertising. Since 2021, there's been a 17% increase in shoppers prioritizing discounts and special offers in ads. This trend suggests that price has become a more critical factor for consumers than social responsibility initiatives.

"While traditional advertising remains powerful," commented Chris Beer, Trends Analyst at GWI, "the data presents exciting opportunities for brands to connect with audiences in innovative ways. Young consumers are turning to AI and social media for shopping and brand discovery, while ethnic minority groups respond more favorably to influencers. Brands need to adapt their marketing strategies to embrace these new media channels and discover fresh pathways to reach their target demographics."
Public Media Solution (PMS Group), a leading marketing agency headquartered in Pune, announced today that it has secured the Marketing and Branding mandate for Nulife Hospitals (https://nulifehospital.in/).

Building on a Strong Healthcare Legacy

Nulife Hospitals, founded in 1983 by Dr. Harish Kumar, is renowned for its commitment to exceptional medical care and patient hospitality. Under the leadership of Dr. Akshay Kumar, the hospital has grown into a premier medical institution in the Delhi NCR region, with three strategically located facilities.

"Nulife Hospitals has a proud 30-year legacy in healthcare," said Dr. Akshay Kumar. "Building Legacy in healthcare since 30 years, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care and the most compassionate service."

Leveraging Expertise for Strategic Growth

PMS Group, led by Ravinder Bharti, boasts a strong network of medical professionals across various specialities, including orthopaedics, obstetrics/ gynecology, oncology, cardiology, dermatology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, neurology, and otolaryngology. This unique network allows PMS Group to facilitate strategic partnerships and collaborations within the medical community for Nulife Hospitals.

Targeted Marketing to Enhance Brand Presence

PMS Group is committed to developing and implementing customized marketing strategies that directly align with Nulife Hospitals' goals. By leveraging its extensive network and expertise, the agency will create targeted marketing initiatives to enhance Nulife's brand presence and attract a wider patient base.

"With our innovative marketing strategies and vast network of doctors," continued Bharti, "we are confident in our ability to elevate Nulife Hospitals' visibility and reputation within the healthcare industry."
Sonakshi Sinha raises excitement for the release date! Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar coming on Netflix!

Gear up for the release date of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar! Releasing only on Netflix!

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar is indeed the biggest show out of India. While the first look that was revealed, left the nation astounded with the grandness, the filmmaker is about to bring to the OTT arena, the first song 'Sakal Ban' further gave a more comprehensive glimpse of the world of Heeramandi. Immensely enriched with beautiful aesthetics, a celebrated star cast, and a classical symphony, the director is all set to treat the audience with a show for the first time from India on the global level. Amid the rising fervor, the makers are all set to make a grand announcement of its release date.

One of the lead actresses of SLB's Heeramandi, Sonakshi Sinha raises the excitement for the unveiling of the release date. Taking to her social media, the actress shared a pre-release poster of Heeramandi.

It has indeed piqued the excitement for the unveiling of Heeramandi's release date.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar also features Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, and Sanjeeda Sheikh. The show is all set to release this year on Netflix worldwide.
In a tribute to Indias vibrant spirit of women entrepreneurship and their impact on the economic landscape, Swiggy, Indias leading on-demand convenience platform, launched a new initiative titled She The Change- From Vision to Venture" today. Inaugurated by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Government of India, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman ji, the initiative by Swiggy underscores the contribution of food delivery platforms in fostering and stimulating women's entrepreneurship in the country.

Commemorating nearly a decade of working with women entrepreneurs, Swiggy is shining the spotlight on their journey from vision to venture' for both budding and established women entrepreneurs in the Food & Beverage (F&B) industry. The launch event served as a platform for accomplished women entrepreneurs in F&B from across India, joined by distinguished figures from economics and academia, and Swiggy's leadership including Sriharsha Majety, Group CEO, Swiggy and Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Food Marketplace, Swiggy.

Swiggy has more than 50,000 women-run restaurants on its platform. It is estimated that these entrepreneurs are generating approximately three hundred thousand jobs, as each restaurant employs an average of six direct employees. Swiggy believes that this is merely the beginning of their contribution to the food and beverage sector, which accounts for around three per cent of the country's GDP.

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs commended Swiggy's role in encouraging and recognising the performance of women-led businesses, a move emphasizing the Honourable Prime Minister's endorsement of women's inclusion in the workforce, encapsulated in his vision of 'Nari Shakti,'.

Speaking at the occasion, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Government of India, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman ji, said From keeping women at the centre of policymaking to women-related budgets to discussing women in employment, we have come a long way. Today, I can see there is great vibrancy in women-led enterprises, where women are coming forth and taking up business challenges- whether small, medium or big, you find women everywhere, and programmes such as Swiggy's She the Change are giving them the encouragement and a little push, and for other women to know this is possible. Swiggy deserves a special mention for encouraging women's entrepreneurship nationwide.

Sriharsha Majety, Group CEO of Swiggy, said, 'She The Change' transcends being just an initiative; it stands as a platform, dedicated to honouring and amplifying the remarkable stories of women entrepreneurs and leaders in the F&B industry. They have not only set new benchmarks for success but also played a pivotal role in shaping India's economic narrative. At Swiggy, we deeply acknowledge the dedication and perseverance they've poured into their ventures, and it's our privilege to celebrate and recognize several of them in the presence of Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Ji, Honourable Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs."

Rohit Kapoor, CEO- of Swiggy Food Marketplace, Swiggy said In the decade since Swiggy's inception, we've had the honour to provide a platform for women entrepreneurs in the F&B space and witness their remarkable journeys first-hand. It's inspiring to see the steady growth in both the number and scale of women-led businesses on Swiggy each year. 'She the Change' is dedicated to these entrepreneurial women. It's more than just a celebrationit's about empowering them with access to resources for sustained success, growth, and meaningful impact.

Ashni Shah, Co-founder of NOTO- Healthy Ice Cream said, The restaurant industry is highly competitive, and this is why it is encouraging to see women in the industry being celebrated by a platform like Swiggy with the "She the Change" initiative. Food delivery platforms like Swiggy make a significant contribution towards enhancing our visibility and increasing our order volumes by connecting us with a broader customer base. I am grateful for this recognition and hope that this initiative inspires more women to not only take the initial step but also pursue their aspirations with conviction.

Swiggy's mission to offer unparalleled convenience to consumers through access to a wide variety of restaurants has empowered numerous restaurants, especially in smaller towns. Priya Sharma of Bonfire Pizza, Rishikesh, said From sharing homemade meals at the office to launching our restaurant, the journey has been a leap of faith. We faced many trials, including limited resources and no advertising budget, however, post our partnership with Swiggy in 2019, our business saw a transformative shift, reaching new heights. Today, Bonfire Pizza is not just a restaurant; it's a testament to chasing your passion and embracing the opportunities that come your way. Is heartening to see Swiggy recognise and honour women entrepreneurship through stories of women-led businesses turning their vision into reality.

The event concluded with the facilitation of women entrepreneurs from across the country, celebrating their remarkable contributions and inspiring journeys in creating a difference through their ventures.
New York's Museum of Modern Art has apologized following a "discrimination" controversy where museum security barred the entry of a visitor who was wearing a keffiyeh head scarf, a headpiece commonly interpreted as a symbol of Palestinian liberation.

The MoMA 'Keffiyeh' Controversy

Last Saturday, March 16, a Brooklyn-based independent writer named Ju-Hyun Park posted on X (formerly Twitter) about her and her friend's recent experience of being told they could not enter the institution due to the black-and-white keffiyeh in Park's bag.

According to Park's statement to Hyperallergic and Middle East Eye, security purportedly notified a nearby supervisor after noticing the scarf, and the two were consequently denied entry.

Park also claimed that all of this transpired without even being notified of the reason behind the staff's refusal to let them enter the museum, prompting the writer to describe the incident as an enforcement of "brazenly racist anti-Palestinian policy" in the X post.

Since exploding in notoriety, MoMA has released its own statement regarding the incident, which it shared with both Art News and Hyperallergic.

In it, the institution wrote: "Following a visitor's social media post, we implemented our established process for onsite incident review," adding that, after an initial investigation, the museum determined that the staff "misidentified" the keffiyeh as a banner during the routine security inspection.

As per MoMA's website, the institution's ban list includes "banners, signs, and flags" alongside "any other items that could put the art or visitors at risk, to be determined at the sole discretion of the MoMA Security Team."

However, the institution claims responsibility for the "mishap," saying, "We made a mistake and we apologize. Keffiyehs are not, and have never been, on the Museum's list of prohibited items."

"We have worked with staff to ensure our guidelines and training on this are clear, and we reached out to the visitor to apologize," it stated.

Read Also: Julianna Margulies and Peter Gallagher to Make Broadway Return in Stage Adaptation of Delia Ephron's 'Left on Tenth'

 2024 Classicalite All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Whats the hot trend today? Shackets? Cargo pants? Denims on denims? Myntra, the home of trends - is turning the trend game upside down and making us buy pants for an all new reason to find money inside its pockets! Think about it. Every human being on Earth loves finding forgotten money in their pockets. But since millions of young Indians switched to digital payments, this small joy is running out of circulation.

To resurrect this small win for a whole new generation, Talented Agency turned to Britannia Good Day - Indias favourite cookie brand, thats all about celebrating the small wins, and asked them to put their money where their mouth is or where their consumers pockets are.

Thus was born the The Bank of Small Wins - a guerilla activation thats entering pockets. Britannia Good Day printed their own currency* (worth ~ INR 15 lakhs), in denominations ranging from 10 to 2000, each adorned with designs inspired by the memorable packs of Britannia Good Day and stuffed into lakhs of pockets across India.

Starting with 1 lakh random pockets across Myntras collection: in random jeans, trousers, pyjamas, you name it. Across the best of Myntras homegrown brands including Roadster and FWD.

And while the bank might not be real, the value of the currency is! Every note from The Bank of Small Wins is redeemable for actual currency (through a UPI cashback). No strings attached.

In an exciting tease, Britannia Good Day has also hinted at the possibility of a massive 50,000 note hidden in one of these pockets, somewhere!

That's not all - each note contains bonus small wins, cleverly crafted to offer a touch of whimsy and practicality to any social situation - whether it's turning a meeting into an email or sidestepping the dreaded 'Shaadi' conversation with parents, these bonus wins add an extra layer of charm to every discovery.

In a classic Indian touch, some of these notes will also have random scribbles on them that make the receiver even luckier - right from secret autographs ft. an Indian sportstar, to a secret phone number which will award the user with 3 months of free Britannia Good Day packs!

The Mr. Beastification of Good Day is here! Digital payments killed the worlds biggest small win, and Britannia Good Day is now resurrecting it. Through the worlds smallest media touchpoint pockets! To think that there could be a Britannia Good Day ad hiding in your pocket was both hilarious and thrilling. Both Aww and Awe. This insight and idea is relatable to every human being on Earth - and weve been joking about how Britannia Good Day should go global just so every currency - Euro, Yen, Dollar - gets a taste of The Bank of Small Wins. Its the prettiest looking currency out there! Sanket Audhi and Aatif Shaikh, Creatives @ Talented.

Cookie Dough is meeting Real Dough! To take Britannia Good Day from the Indian kitchen to the Indian wardrobe was unexpected. We hope buying pants or giving them for laundry will never feel the same again. The Bank of Small Wins is a guerilla activation, a media innovation and a cross-brand collaboration all rolled into one, and one of the freshest interpretations of Britannia Good Days brand platform of Everyday Small Wins, Amit Doshi, Chief Marketing Officer, Britannia.

What do cookies and pants have in common? One of the most exciting partnerships seen in India of course! Partnering with Britannia we gave Cash on Delivery a whole new spin multiplying the delight and excitement of receiving your order. Were hoping this makes shopping on Myntra even more exciting now. And on a lighter note, gives us more reasons for women's clothes to have pockets. Vijay Sharma, Senior Director, Brand Marketing, Myntra.

Want to find one of these notes? Try your luck by shopping on Myntra!
West Birmingham is bracing for the loss of a neighborhood pillar  as nearly 200 acres of land and buildings could soon sit empty if leaders cant find a buyer for the Birmingham-Southern campus.

I dont think legislators or state leaders understand or appreciate what will happen when the college closes, said Rep. Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham, in a news release Wednesday. Businesses in Bush Hills, Fairview, College Hills, and other nearby neighborhoods are going to be hurt financially because the Legislature wouldnt pass the loan bill.

Givan will hold a town hall meeting Monday evening, April 1, to discuss next steps for nearby neighborhoods after the closure of Birmingham-Southern College, a 168-year old private school scheduled to shut down at the end of May. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. in the auditorium of A.H. Parker High School in Birmingham.

Surrounding neighborhoods are already reeling from closures of a local hospital and another local college, Givan previously told AL.com, and cant stand to let more buildings stay vacant.

As weve seen with other institutions that have shuttered their doors, we will be entering a difficult chapter following this unfortunate development, Birmingham City Council President Darrell OQuinn said Tuesday.

The small liberal arts college announced Tuesday afternoon that it would close on May 31, citing a lack of support for a new loan bill that would give the school a lifeline to stay open.

Birmingham City Council member Carole Clarke, who represents the Bush Hills area, said on Wednesday that she was profoundly disappointed but not entirely surprised, by the closure.

The current use is by far the best one for the site and the closure ends a long tradition of excellence in higher education for Alabama and community leadership for Birmingham that will be sorely missed, she said.

BSC officials said that until a buyer is found, the campus will be monitored by security officers. Residents will still be able to access nearby streets, and the United Methodist Center on campus will remain open for public use.

Birmingham-Southern College has been an important part of our neighborhood for many years, and this is a major loss to our neighborhood, socially and economically, Walladean Streeter, president of the Bush Hills Neighborhood Association, said on Wednesday. Our hearts go out to everyone negatively impacted, and we will remain hopeful and positive about the future of our neighborhood.

Givan told AL.com Tuesday that several institutions were interested in buying the 192-acre property after it closes, but its fate remains unclear. The property includes dozens of administrative and classroom buildings, residence halls, an apartment complex with a pool, a lake, and playing fields.

As the anchor tenant of this part of the city, BSC has provided stability, security, and service to our neighbors in Bush Hills, College Hills, and Smithfield, and vice versa for more than a century, read a statement on the schools website. With millions of federal dollars on the way to create affordable housing and a more visible and attractive pathway between downtown and the west, such a large property being left vacant for any length of time is a huge setback to the neighborhoods that surround it.

Streeter said in a recent editorial that more and more Bush Hills students have enrolled at the college in recent years, and that the school has expanded access to financial aid for Bush Hills families.

Birmingham-Southern students also have regularly volunteered their help with neighborhood beautification projects and tutoring in local elementary schools, she said.

City officials said the area near the college is prime for transformative growth and development. A grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development is expected to bring 1,000 new homes and new and improved services and amenities in Graymont, Smithfield and College Hills neighborhoods.

When we think about all those neighborhoods, which would include College Hills, which sits right outside of that Choice Neighborhood footprint, it stands to gain a ton of investment and interest as this award unfolds and as these investments come online. This is not theoretical. This is in fact, happening, Cornell Wesley, the citys director of innovation of economic opportunity, told AL.com.

Clarke, the council member, is also a former director of economic development for the city and brings experience from a career in commercial development. She said it remains in the citys best interest that the institution maintains control of its campus while plans are developed, she said, rather than the property changing hands to financial institutions.

Im sure that some suitors are going to come out who are interested, but I think it will be a very limited list of folks who could use that property as it sits and is developed, because it is very purpose built, she said. We just have to stay close to the college right now so that we can be at the table in the conversations about redevelopment, so we hopefully end up with something very compatible and positive for the area.

Clarke also expressed concern about the residents who live behind the college. Specifically, she noted Greensboro Road, a street that is behind the BSC gate, that residents take daily to access their homes.

Residents will be able to continue to use the gate to access the street, according to a notice from the school, but Clarke said leaders need to start considering other options.

Roads dont get built overnight, she said. As a city, those are things we should be thinking about.
Mobiles Catholic Archbishop has taken the first step in the process that will culminate in his retirement and the appointment of a successor.

According to information provided by the Archdiocese of Mobile, Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi has submitted a letter of resignation to the pope as all bishops are required to do at age 75. A statement from the archdiocese said that the letter does not signal his immediate departure from the position: There is no timetable as to when a successor will be appointed, and he will continue to serve as archbishop in the interim.

Thank you to the people of the Archdiocese of Mobile. I have been blessed and continue to be blessed by serving the people of this wonderful archdiocese, said Archbishop Rodi, who turned 75 on Wednesday, March 27. The Holy Spirit works powerfully in this archdiocese and works through the people of the archdiocese. It is a privilege to serve as shepherd of this archdiocese to praise God, to serve neighbor and together to grow in faith.

Rodi is the second Archbishop of Mobile. According to information provided by the Archdiocese of Mobile, the Catholics in the region were first organized into the Vicariate-Apostolic of Alabama and the Floridas in 1825. The Diocese of Mobile was established in 1829, became the Diocese of Mobile-Birmingham in 1954 and then became the Archdiocese of Mobile, serving the lower 28 counties of Alabama, in 1980. Oscar Lipscomb served as its first archbishop from 1980 to 2008.

The Diocese of Birmingham, overseen by Bishop Steven J. Raica, covers the northern 39 counties of the state.

RELATED:

Vatican formally removes Alex Crow from the priesthood, Archdiocese of Mobile announces

COVID-19: Bishops suspend Mass for all Catholic churches in Alabama

A conversation with Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi of the Diocese of Mobile
A tax-exempt organization that promotes voter registration for people of color, unmarried women, and young people says that Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen grossly mischaracterized their mass mail efforts in the state.

Allen stands by his comments and says the organization, which plans to mail 138,000 letters to Alabama households this year, is not nonpartisan, as it claims, but focuses on Democrat-leaning segments of the electorate.

Allen sent out a news release Monday warning voters about what he said were misleading and confusing mailers from the Voter Participation Center and the Center for Voter Information.

On two occasions, this Office was contacted on behalf of Voter Participation Center and Center for Voter Information regarding a mailer they planned to send to Alabama citizens, Allen said. In response, I strongly discouraged the groups plan to mass mail our citizens. This type of targeted, partisan interference by out-of-state, third-party organizations is unnecessary, confusing, and counterproductive.

In response to Allen, Tom Lopach, president and CEO of the Voter Participation Center and the Center for Voter Information, released a statement Monday.

The goal of the Voter Participation Center (VPC) and Center for Voter Information (CVI) is to register and turn out eligible voters in Alabama, Lopach said. This is non-partisan work and its aim is one that all election administrators should support. This is about bringing democracy to eligible Americans doorsteps.

Lopach said the Voter Participation Center and the Center for Voter Information have helped more than 6.1 million people register to vote since 2003.

Our hope is that all election officials will support our efforts to promote democracy, instead of misleading and alarming voters about our effective and non-partisan voter registration programs, Lopach said.

The Voter Participation Center is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, meaning it is considered a charitable organization that is not for profit and operates on tax-exempt contributions.

Lopach said the voter registration efforts focus on what the organization says are groups that are underrepresented on the rolls of registered voters - people of color, unmarried women, and youth (ages 18-35). The organization calls those three groups the New American Majority and says they include 150 million people, or 64% of the people who can vote.

In Alabama, 38.8% of people in those groups are not registered to vote, as compared to 24.3% unregistered among people not in those groups, the organization says. The numbers are based on the U.S. Census Bureaus 2022 voting and election supplement. Lopach said the mission of the VPC and CVI is to close the gap, which equates to about 465,000 more unregistered voters in Alabama in the three groups than among other voters.

Lopach said the first mailers in Alabama this year went out last week. He said another round is planned for late May or early June and a third around Labor Day. The VPC and CVI have been doing work off-and-on in Alabama since 2006, he said.

Lopach said the mailers include the same voter registration applications available on the secretary of states website and at county registration offices. They have pre-addressed, postage-paid envelopes. Some include a QR code that directs recipients to the VPC voter registration app, which is powered by the Rock the Vote organization.

The VPC and CVI send out three main types of mailers. One is a birthday greeting to people who have just turned 18, letting them know they are eligible to vote. A second type goes to people who have moved to remind them about the importance of registering at their new address. The third type goes to areas where large numbers of people of color live, and specifically to households where nobody is registered to vote or where it appears there are multiple people who are eligible to vote but only one registered.

The mailers include disclaimers saying the VPC and CVI are a nonpartisan, nonprofit group and not a government entity.

On Tuesday, Allen issued a new statement reiterating his concerns from Monday.

The response issued by the Voter Participation Center and Center for Voter Information fails to refute and, in fact, advances our position that these groups are using targeted, partisan tactics, Allen said. The claim that these groups are nonpartisan is false and is completely contradicted when the groups publicly reveal their targeted demographic to be primarily Democratic voter blocks.

Lopach was asked if the fact that Black voters in Alabama overwhelmingly support Democratic candidates undermines the organizations claim that its mailing programs are nonpartisan.

I cannot speak to how people vote, Lopach said. We are nonpartisan. We know that the communities we serve are under-registered compared to white folks in Alabama.

Lopach said elections should be a contest of ideas and that the goal should be to have as many people as possible registered and voting.

Seems to me thats how a democracy ought to run, said Lopach, a Montana native and former chief of staff to U.S. Sen. Jon Tester of Montana and former Montana Gov. Steve Bullock, both Democrats.

That work is different than what I do now, Lopach said. I run a nonprofit now that is nonpartisan.

Allen said his goal is to have all eligible Alabamians registered and voting, not specific segments of the electorate.

These groups unsolicited efforts to advance a political agenda directly contradict this ideal and are not welcome in Alabama, Allen said.

Lopach, asked why it would not be better to promote registration for all voters, instead of certain segments, said that would be outside the mission and beyond the capabilities of the VPC and CVI.

First of all, were a nonprofit, Lopach said. And we do this all with charitable funding. And we dont have enough funding to do everybody, everywhere across the country.

Second, our mission, as a nonprofit, is to help register and turn out underrepresented populations. So our focus, our mission, our work, is with underrepresented populations. Somebody else can do work with overrepresented populations. Our mission is very much those who are underrepresented in the electorate.

Allen said the secretary of states office has in previous election cycles received complaints of similar registration mailers that were prefilled with incorrect information. He said that causes confusion.

Lopach said the registration forms in the mailers are prefilled to increase the response rate. He said the prefilling on the form includes address, city, state and zip code, and in some cases, the name of the potential voter at the address. The letters include a P.S. note that if the prefilled information is incorrect, the voter should cross it out and enter the correct information.

Lopach said about 1% to 5% of mailers that go out result in a new voter registrations, which he said is a good response rate for direct mail.

Allen said the fact that the organization acknowledges some of mailers contain incorrect information helps make his point.

Further, I would like to make very clear that the only misleading and alarming message to Alabama citizens has been at the hands of VPC and CVI, Allen said. VPC and CVI are unable to deny the instances of errors in their mailers and, in fact, instruct the Alabama citizens who will inevitably receive inaccurately pre-filled mailers to discard them.

On Tuesday, Allens office sent out a news release that April 1 is the last day to register in order to participate in the April 16 primary runoff. More information is available on the secretary of states voter registration webpage or at the offices of county boards of registrars.
Alabamians are sharing their opposition to Gov. Kay Iveys suggested library policy changes.

According to the Alabama Public Library Service, Alabamians had submitted 416 public comments as of Monday, and 399 are opposed to adopting the administrative code changes Ivey proposed after fears of inappropriate content for children sparked a wave of book challenges statewide. The public comment period ends April 29.

The code changes include relocating sexually explicit or other material deemed inappropriate for children or youth, and moving the books to the adult section doesnt equate to a denial of service on the basis of age.

I think that were all trying to be responsive to the concerns that have been made, board chair Ronald Snider told AL.com on Monday. He said its premature to determine what will be approved. Still, he thought the governors proposal was a reasonable effort to move forward.

This agency does a lot of good, and it has never been controversial until this year, Snider said. And were hoping to not continue to be controversial.

One of the newest state library board members, Amy Dozier Minton, told AL.com that some public commenters wanted stronger or more specific changes to the code.

So I thought that was an interesting part of the conversation, Minton said.

Minton, who challenged 30 LGBTQ books at Gadsden library in 2023, wants to amend the current code to disallow libraries from purchasing or acquiring any material for minors which contain obscenity, sexual conduct, sexual intercourse, sexual orientation, gender identity/ideology, or gender discordance. Age-appropriate materials concerning biology, human anatomy, or religion are exempt from this rule.

This language is similar to the Autauga-Prattville Public Library policy adopted in February, which sparked turmoil, leading to the termination of the library director and several library staff.

Minton said she does not consider this a book ban because books are still available in bookstores.

We cant carry all one million books that are published every year, Minton said. Were just saying to not have these in our public libraries with taxpayer dollars. She added, selective censorship happens every day when librarians decide which books to shelve and which to weed out.

The anti-censorship group PEN America considers a book ban as any time a book is removed from availability to students, or where access to a book is restricted or diminished.

On March 21, the board decided to wait until after the public hearing to discuss these amendments by voting to create a subcommittee to look at them further.

My view was we need to let the current process play out, Snider said. It could be confusing to the public to put out any additional amendments until that period had concluded and we had the public hearing. The amendments also include mandating library cards for minors and no public funding to the American Library Association.

Board member and Alabama Republican Party chair John Wahl told AL.com Tuesday that Minton brings up some good points.

She brings up things that I think the board should look at, Wahl said. But we need to make sure that we stay within the bounds of the authority of APLS as well as we get it right and give both board members and the public time to see them before we take any action.

The board also discussed Attorney General Steve Marshalls opinion that the APLS can withhold funding for libraries that dont follow the administrative code. Minton said shes concerned funding may be withheld or pro-rated since the legislative term ends on May 20, less than a month after the public hearing. Snider said there shouldnt be a problem but will address it if it arises.

Minton said APLS executive director Nancy Pack is working on a new Alabama public library bill of rights given APLS disaffiliation from the American Library Association, which has its own bill of rights. Wahl said the bill would have some of the language in ALAs bill of rights, including standing up for teaching, for encouraging reading and good materials for patrons.

Going back to some of those fundamental rights (such as) freedom of free speech, freedom of association, and highlighting some of the things that are so important to a free society, Wahl said.

While APLS disaffiliation doesnt automatically affect the membership of libraries and individual librarians, the American Library Association secured $293,000 in grants to 36 libraries between 2019-2023. Wahl said the board wants to make sure that the Alabama Public Library Service steps into the gap created by the disaffiliation and that missing resources are provided.

The public comment period for the legislative code changes ends at 4:30 p.m. on April 29. Comments should be mailed or hand-delivered to Vanessa Carr, Executive Secretary, at the Alabama Public Library Service office at 6030 Monticello Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117.

The APLS will hold a public hearing at 10 a.m. April 30. Each person can speak for up to three minutes. Potential speakers should request to make oral comments to vcarr@apls.state.al.us no later than 4:30 p.m. on April 29. APLS will determine the order of oral statements by the requested date.
A Phenix City man is behind bars in the killing of a woman whose decomposed body was found last year.

Navansley Vonques Smith, 38, is charged with murder in the slaying of Jennifer Marie Anderson.

Andersons body was found Oct. 27, 2023, near the intersection of Brickyard Road and Fontaine Road in Phenix City. The discovery was made about 1:15 p.m. that Friday.

Anderson was later identified by the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences.

Smith was taken into custody earlier this week. No additional details have been released and authorities have not said how or why Anderson was killed.

The investigation is still ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to call Phenix City police at 334-448-2794 or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 334-215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-STOP.
The National Right to Life Committee has endorsed Dick Brewbaker in the Republican runoff in Alabamas 2nd congressional district.

Brewbaker, a former state senator from Montgomery and longtime automobile dealer, faces Montgomery attorney Caroleene Dobson in the April 16 runoff in the redrawn 2nd District.

The Republican nominee will face the winner Democratic runoff between former U.S. Justice Department official Shomari Figures of Mobile and House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels of Huntsville.

The National Right to Life Committee, founded in 1968, describes itself as the nations oldest and largest anti-abortion organization, with more than 3,000 local chapters.

We look forward to working with you in Congress, NRLC President Carol Tobias said about Brewbaker. Thank you for joining us in building an America where the lives of unborn babies are protected and their mothers receive the support they need to make life-affirming decisions.

Brewbaker led the eight-candidate field in the March 5 Republican primary, receiving 22,589 votes, or 37%. Dobson finished second with 15,102 votes, or 25%.

The voices of real conservatives will be heard on April 16, Brewbaker said in a press release from his campaign. This endorsement gives voters insight and guidance on who to support if they want to be on the side of life.

The Alabama Farmers Federation endorsed Dobson in January.

Read more: Why Alabamas 2nd congressional district is in play for Republicans after Tuesdays primary
State Rep. Napoleon Bracy Jr., who finished third in the Democratic primary in Alabamas 2nd Congressional District, has endorsed former U.S. Justice Department official Shomari Figures of Mobile in the runoff.

As the state representative of communities in this District for more than a decade now, I know the type of leadership District 2 and the voters who live here deserve and need. Shomari Figures is that leader, and Im proud to endorse him for Congress, Bracy said in a press release.

Figures faces House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels of Huntsville in the April 16 runoff.

Figures led the 11-candidate field in the March 5 primary with 24,825 votes, or 43%. Daniels finished second with 12,774 votes, or 22%.

Bracy has represented a Mobile County district in the Legislature since 2010.

Its no secret that there are many issues facing this new District, from healthcare and education to jobs and gun violence, Bracy said. Shomari is the only candidate in this race who has worked in Washington in all three branches of federal government, he is the only Democrat who lives in our District, and I believe he is the candidate who can move our party forward and win in November.

Figures is a Mobile native who worked in the Obama administration and as deputy chief of staff and counselor to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland. He is the son of longtime state Sen. Vivian Davis Figures and Michael Figures, a state senator who died in 1996.

On Saturday, Figures received the endorsement of the Alabama Democratic Conference.

Daniels has represented a Huntsville-area district in the Alabama House since 2014. He has been House minority leader since 2017. Daniels grew up in Bullock County and said he maintains deep ties in the 2nd District.

Sen. Merika Coleman, who finished fourth in the primary, endorsed Daniels on Tuesday.
A bill filed last week in the Alabama Senate would keep companies receiving state economic development incentives from voluntarily recognizing labor unions.

SB 231, sponsored by State Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, is similar to a bill approved along party lines last week by the Georgia Legislature. The bill would not prohibit secret ballot elections, such as the two that took place at Amazons Bessemer fulfillment center in 2021 and 2022.

However, companies under labor law may recognize unions voluntarily if a majority of the workers in a workplace sign union cards. If companies do not recognize a union, it may file a petition for an election with the National Labor Relations Board or strike for recognition.

The United Auto Workers is currently employing a strategy of getting 70% of workers at auto plants to sign cards before requesting an election, as it did at the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga.

Under SB 231, companies are also prohibited from disclosing an employees personal contact information to a labor organization, or a third party acting on behalf of a union, without the employees prior written consent, unless otherwise required by state or federal law.

Orr said the secret ballot provisions are important for individual workers rights, and the bill doesnt mandate a vote but encourages it.

Were a right-to-work state, he said. If were going to have a union vote, and (the company) has state incentives, it needs to be private and not through a card-check situation where its very public, for both the pros and the cons. You have people who want to vote for a union who are getting pressured not to, and people who dont want a union who are pressured to vote for it.

The bill would also affect subcontractors, but would not apply to any agreement between the state and companies prior to Jan. 1, 2025.

Any company violating these provisions would have to repay all economic development incentives received over the life of the project.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Alabama had 156,000 union members, or less than 8% of the states total workforce, in 2023. Another 24,000 wage and salary workers who do not belong to a union were represented by a union or covered by an employee association or contract.

Union membership has grown since 2021, when less than 6% of the states workers belonged to a union.

Orr said, according to media reports, Alabama is one of the states being targeted by the UAW in its push to unionize Southern auto plants. Earlier this year, the UAW committed $40 million over two years for organizing efforts at auto plants, with a concentration on the South.

Companies need to know (the bills provisions) well in advance, if theyre going to receive some kind of incentives, that they need to play by these state rules in addition to the federal rules, Orr said.

The North Alabama Area Labor Council called the bill a direct attack on the freedoms of working people in Alabama and the rights of business owners in our state to make their own workforce decisions.

Voluntary recognition by employers is the fastest avenue for employees to legally organize a union in their workplace, the council said in a statement. By removing this avenue, this bill is a direct attack on Alabamas labor movement and will force costly, unnecessary elections on business owners who want to do right by their employees.

Further, the implication of this bill is that workers are being coerced into unionization - this is obviously not the case, and there are mechanisms by which a worker can force an election where they feel the claim to majority support is illegitimate.
This is an opinion cartoon.

Dont look now, but Donald J. Trump is hawking Bibles. $60 will get you a seat at the grifters fable, just in time for Easter!

Happy Holy Week! Lets Make America Pray Again. As we lead into Good Friday and Easter, I encourage you to get a copy of the God Bless the USA Bible, Trump wrote in the Truth Social post, alongside a link to a website selling the book for $59.99 (plus tax and various other charges.) It came a day after Trump seemingly compared his legal plight to Jesus Christs persecution. - from Newsweek.

Related: The crucifixion of Donald Trump - al.com

Related: Donald Trump Selling Bibles Sparks Fury From Christians'Blasphemous Grift (newsweek.com)

Trump offers his own personally endorsed - by the orange devil himself and country music dude Lee Greenwood - MAGA grifter translation of the King James version Bible to the public. If you loved Trump Steaks, Trump Wine and Trump University, youre gonna thank Trump, your slumlord and savior, for the Trump Bible.

Just in time to help pay off a few of his amoral criminally insane, abusive diversions that he has never been held accountable for ... until recently.

Related: Trump, country music star team up to sell $60 Bibles: Make America Pray Again - al.com

Related: Trump must put up $175 million in 10 days in $454 million civil fraud judgment - al.com

Growing up, we had several salesmen and sales ladies knock on our door.

Our mama was mostly a stay-at-home wife and mother, but she was a natural sales lady, a great teacher and school room mom - and a fabulous BS detector. When a salesperson showed up at our door, it was game on.

We had vacuum salesmen who threw dirt on our carpet, cleaned it up and scurried away in shame. But never without a glass of sweet tea and a lesson in courtesy. We had shoe salesmen who talked too much and were shushed away easily when they figured out there were too many feet in our house and not enough money or sweet tea to make a deal.

Related: Trump is nothing: E. Jean Carroll is right - al.com

Related: Trumps tear gas and Bible photo op - al.com

And then we had Bible salesmen. There was a special place in hell and our mamas heart for Bible salesmen. She lured them in. Let them tell their heartfelt stories. But if they couldnt quote scripture, she sent them next door to our neighbor, Mr. Hall.

Mr. Hall was an old fellow who lived in a make-shift Silver Stream on the other end of our pasture. He was the closest thing to a Grampa I ever knew, and he was a never-ending storyteller in search of a listener. A Bible salesman didnt have a chance in Mr. Halls lair.

Im not sure Donald J. Trump would have survived an interview with our mama. If he did, she would have sweet tead him to death, asked him real questions about his religious beliefs and made him wait for our Dad - a Primitive Baptist preacher - to get home from his day job at the factory. And then we would have had a show. Im not sure how it would have gone down, but I reckon it woulda been a reckoning.

Recent JD Crowe toons

Kay Iveys stand in the schoolhouse door - al.com

Alabama libraries are under attack by slimy bookworms - al.com

Latest Alabama star in transfer portal hits Nick Saban hard - al.com

Tommy Tuberville knows a satanic cult when he sees one - al.com

Alabama Republi-chickens are scared to death of DEI - al.com

This one time at Space Camp: Alabama Dont Say Gay bill is a bad joke - al.com

Burn the freaking books: Alabama libraries under fire from witch hunters - al.com

True Stories and stuff by JD Crowe

The mysterious Bubble Guy of Fairhope and the art of bubble Zen - al.com

How I met Dr. Seuss

Robert Plant head-butted me. Thanks, David Coverdale

I was ZZ Tops drummer for a night and got kidnapped by groupies

Check out more cartoons and stuff by JD Crowe

JD Crowe is the cartoonist for Alabama Media Group and AL.com. He won the RFK Human Rights Award for Editorial Cartoons in 2020. In 2018, he was awarded the Rex Babin Memorial Award for local and state cartoons by the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. Follow JD on Facebook, Twitter @Crowejam and Instagram @JDCrowepix. Give him a holler @jdcrowe@al.com.
A woman has been charged in a hit-and-run crash that injured a 4-year-old boy in east Alabama.

Anniston police on Wednesday announced the arrest of 20-year-old Amarie Curry. She is charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury, which is a felony crime.

The child was struck on Saturday, March 16, in the 2500 block of McDaniel Avenue. Authorities at the time said a two-door blue Hyundai coupe fled the scene.

Anniston police Lt. Brian Brockman said the boy sustained a broken leg. He is out of the hospital and continuing to recover.

Police posted about the hit-and-run on Facebook Monday, which was shared more than 1,000 times.

Currie, he said, then turned herself into police. She lives near where the child was struck.

Curry is out of jail after posting a $10,000 bond.

The investigation is ongoing.
The race is on for schools to acquire students from Birmingham-Southern College after the small liberal arts school announced Tuesday it will close May 31.

Among the institutions that made overtures to BSC students were the University of Alabama System, which on Wednesday announced it was offering an expedited transfer process to BSC students.

As a fellow institution of higher education, the University of Alabama System is grateful for Birmingham-Southern Colleges distinguished contributions over the past 168 years and is saddened by the colleges recently announced closure, the system, which includes the University of Alabama, the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of Alabama in Huntsville, said in a statement.

As such, the UA System will offer an expedited transfer process to all eligible students currently enrolled at Birmingham-Southern College. The expedited transfer process will be available at all UA System campuses ...

That process includes waived application fees and expedited review and credit transfer processing, if eligible, the system said.

Each UA System institution will work with accepted students on an individual basis to create a competitive financial aid package to the greatest extent possible based on available funding and student eligibility, the statement continued.

The campuses will also maximize Birmingham-Southern students transfer credits to help work toward timely degree completion, the system said.

Academic advisors and discipline-specific program personnel will work closely with affected students to apply their credits to the appropriate degree program and facilitate the transfer process based on each eligible students unique needs.

Deadlines will also be adjusted as necessary to accommodate affected students, the system said.

BSC students with questions about transferring to a UA System campus were told to send inquiries to these dedicated liaisons:

The University of Alabama: Jim Landers, jim.landers@ua.edu

The University of Alabama at Birmingham: Bradley Barnes, bbarnes1@uab.edu

The University of Alabama in Huntsville: Chris Pinto, chris.pinto@uah.edu

Meanwhile, Spring Hill College in Mobile is attempting to entice prospective transfers with $5,000 scholarships.

Already one of the most affordable private colleges in the country, Spring Hill College is pleased to offer a $5,000 scholarship for BSC students who transfer, Mary H. Van Brunt, the private Jesuit colleges president, said in a letter to BSC students. Grant Allen, our transfer admissions counselor, will work with you personally to help you with whatever you need. You can reach him at gallen@shc.edu or by phone at 251-380-3030.

We invite you to visit our beautiful, 381-acre campus as soon as you can and hope youll find your new home at Spring Hill.

Miles College in Birmingham is offering $4,000 scholarships, as is Auburn University at Montgomery.

Other Alabama colleges reached out to BSC students.

The University of Montevallo said several students from BSC asked about transfer options.

Montevallo stands ready to make the transfer process seamless to allow BSC students to successfully complete their academic careers, the school said on its Facebook page Tuesday.

Our University family shares in the sadness of losing a long-lived, venerable institution. I have met so many... Posted by University of Montevallo on Tuesday, March 26, 2024

And on Wednesday, the University of North Alabama said it was ready to support potential transfer students from BSC:

To all students affected by the closing of Birmingham Southern College, we want to extend a warm welcome to our campus.... Posted by University of North Alabama on Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Jacksonville State University touted its seamless transfer options and scholarships to Birmingham-Southern students:

Our hearts go out to the Birmingham-Southern College community as they have announced their upcoming closure. JSU is here to support the impacted students, offering seamless transfer options and scholarships to help them continue their academic journeys.https://t.co/GfiUgAyAiz pic.twitter.com/xzTQPrYE6Z  Jacksonville State University (@JSUNews) March 27, 2024

Updated March 28 7:19 p.m. to add more colleges.
Lawsuits from the mayor, police chief and city manager continue to pile up. Insults, scuffles, explicit language, and the talk of violence divide the town and impair operations.

Tarrant finds itself a city at a crossroads. There is no clear path forward. Just this week there are new allegations in court accusing the mayor of pursuing a vendetta against the police chief.

Meanwhile, longtime residents of the city just northeast of Birmingham say they are embarrassed and fear the constant drama will damage their city.

Youve got an elderly woman going to jail. Youve got the mayor and a councilman going back and forth. Youve got the mayor talking about how he wants to do something sexual to the councilmans wife, said Jarvis Escott. Youre really dealing with people who dont know how to get along.

Escott is a lifelong resident and a 20-year member of the citys industrial development board. He said he fears the negative attention will repel businesses. His greatest fear is that Tarrant will face a similar fate as Fairfield, a town on the western side of Jefferson County that languishes after bankruptcy and a steady exit of stable businesses.

He noted one year where the Easter egg hunt was canceled in Tarrant because the mayor and council could not agree on details.

When youve got a council that cant even agree with an Easter egg hunt, how is that even normal? he said.

A constant tit-for-tat:

Council meetings often begin with tension and end after raised voices and insults from both city leaders and residents in the audience. The official public comment period is reserved for the end of the meeting, but protocol usually dissolves long before then as residents ask questions, deliver commentary and shout from their seats.

Escott said city leaders would be better served by focusing on resident priorities rather than the political fights and lawsuits. For example, Escott recently complained about stray or feral dogs hes seen roaming city streets. Those citizen issues should take priority over political turf battles, he said.

There are just dogs roaming around in downtown Tarrant and the Brummitt Heights neighborhood, Escott told AL.com showing a phone video of a pack as evidence.

Not even previous rulings from Jefferson County Judge Patrick Ballard were enough to settle disputes stemming from the councils hiring of a city manager, Mayor Wayman Newtons multiple suspensions of police chief Wendell Major, and the legal tug of war to keep him in or force him out.

Each legal victory generates an amended complaint or an appeal.

It has been a constant tit-for-tat between the council and mayor. I dont know who drew the first line or made the first blow, Escott, a lifelong Tarrant resident, told AL.com. I can guarantee you theres less money now because theyve been fighting with one another.

The judge initially ruled in favor of Major, allowing him to return to work as chief after his third suspension by Newton. He was again suspended by Mayor Newton last week - this time for an additional 102 days without pay.

And Newton continues to fight the chiefs employment in court.

Another ruling in January gave the mayor a victory by tossing out the councils hiring of a city manager who would have taken over most of the mayors duties. That case is now heading to the state Supreme Court, with the city council recently agreeing to pay the bond to proceed with the case.

Judge Ballard said the council could hire a city manager, but they could not change the citys form of government or hand over the elected mayors duties to an unelected employee.

That ruling left the manager, John C. Brown, out of a job. Brown had been collecting on a $100,000 annual salary since June 2023 but had not worked due to the legal challenge.

Councilman Tommy Bryant defended the Supreme Court appeal, saying the council has no other choice but to take action against a mayor he derided as a dictator.

The council is doing this because the council hired a city manager because of the deplorable, disgusting, degenerate things that the mayor has done, Bryant said during the last council meeting.

Tarrant Councilman Tommy Bryant explains the council's position on taking a fight with the mayor to the Alabama Supreme Court as Councilwoman/Mayor Pro-tem Tracie Threadford listens on March 18, 2024.Joseph D. Bryant (screenshot)

Newton shot back, saying it is the council that is tossing public money at a case that it has already lost.

Whats deplorable is youre spending $3,000 on something that a judge has already told you that you cant do, Newton said.

Not so fast, said councilwoman Veronica Freeman, who said the council is within its rights to press the issue to the states high court.

The fat lady hasnt sung yet, so it aint over, she said.

Just this week, lawyers for the council filed a motion to toss Newtons lawsuit against the police chief.

The filing makes explosive claims that the mayor, who is also a lawyer, should be disqualified from representing himself in the case and alleges several violations of ethical conduct. Council attorneys Charlie Waldrep and Wayne Morse Jr. want the judge to toss out Newtons case or at least disqualify him for serving as the lawyer in the case.

Newton has violated the Rules of Professional Conduct by making this lawsuit a personal vendetta against Chief Major lawyers wrote in their filing Sunday.

Tarrant Mayor Wayman Newton and Eric Major, brother of embattled police chief Wendell Major spar during a council meeting break Feb. 5, 2014. Charlie Waldrep, a lawyer for the council stands in the background. joseph D. Bryant

Council attorneys list multiple allegations against Newton, including accusations that he aided and abetted a Tarrant employee in improperly practicing law by allowing a police officer to write legal pleadings on his behalf against Major.

They also said that Newton has weaponized the legal system in a personal feud against Major who testified in two cases involving Newton. The last case involved the altercation between Newton and Bryant.

This lawsuit is Newtons personal vendetta, they wrote.

The filing includes several text messages between Newton and Tarrant police Sgt. Derrick Williamson where the two discuss strategies to embarrass the police chief in their court writings. Another officer, Lt. Jimmy Hill, is serving as interim chief while the legal fight over chief Major continues.

Several text messages are quoted as evidence of a vendetta and collusion with the mayor and his favored police officer.

 Newton: You need to provide juicy details about the sexual harassment and the gender and race discrimination.

 Newton: Throw the book at him.

 Newton: This is where we gonna get him.

 Newton: Keep in mind this is going to hit the news so we need to control the headlines.

Newton laughed at the accusations against him and said the council is attempting to deflect his allegations against Major.

Tarrant Police Chief Wendell Major (City of Tarrant)City of Tarrant

Nowhere in that response did they actually say flat out that the stuff that has been said about the chief is not true, Newton told AL.com. And they cant say that, because it is true. They know that not only is the investigator that the city is paying for is looking into this but there are other agencies looking into it.

Newton said the only relief to fighting at city hall would come with the removal of Major as chief and then with voters replacing the council.

The political strife has left residents angry and embarrassed.

Were going to picket city hall. Were going to put some boots on the ground, one resident, Will Smith, told the council. This needs to stop.

Council members push back against criticism, saying that they have reinstated the chief. It is the mayor who is holding up the process, they said.

Its about the time the citizens of Tarrant realize whats going on and stand up, said Councilman Bryant.

Newton has zero council supporters.

The regular antics from city hall have inspired a Facebook site called The Tarrant Tattler. Originally declaring itself as a satirical site, the blog has transformed to become a site with news and commentary on city affairs. It is also a forum where Tarrant residents share information, trade gossip, and express overall frustration with their government.

The writers, who maintain their anonymity, back up their reporting with original source material, including the lawsuits and updates that have become synonymous with Tarrant city politics.

An issue just beneath the surface of most heated exchanges at city hall go back to a late 2022 physical altercation between Newton and Bryant after a city council meeting. A verbal altercation in a city hall parking lot turned violent when Bryant punched Newton after the mayor made sexually insulting comments regarding Bryants wife.

It has been more than a year since the altercation where Bryant was found not guilty due to the fighting words uttered by Newton, yet the hostility remains evident.

Newton maintains that his insults toward Bryant and his wife were a reaction to ongoing racist comments from Bryant.

I think he called me a n---- and a boy, Newton said during the March 18 council meeting. So, when you come at me with that energy, Im not my ancestors.

Bryant denies the racism allegations, saying he called the mayor a little boy because of his immature conduct, including a profanity-laced tirade after one meeting.

Newton, who has previously expressed regret for his comments to Bryant, took it all back at the last council meeting.

I dont apologize to bigots, he said from the dais. The next time, if he punches me, Im going to punch him back.

Newton made city history in 2020 as the first Black person to become Tarrants mayor. Demographics have steadily changed in the town as more Black and Hispanic residents moved in and older white residents decreased.

Still, Escott, the lifelong resident, discounted the magnitude that race plays in the dysfunction. Rather, he said the fights are more about power.

As an example, Escott mentioned the arrest of a 79-year-old woman after she accused the mayor of corruption and argued with a city employee during a council meeting. Novillee Williams was arrested for harassment and disorderly conduct but was found not guilty. She was later applauded by council members when she was appointed to the citys crime commission.

Escott said Tarrant still has several industries within its limits, unlike Fairfield, but he fears for the future under current political conditions.

Thats been the only saving grace, Escott said. But if you own a corporation, why would you want to operate in this type of chaos?

Updated on 3-27-23 to correct that Police Lt. Jimmy Hill is the interim Tarrant Police Chief.
More than 3,700 prisoners came up for parole last year, the vast majority meeting state guidelines for release from a jampacked system. Yet Alabama denied almost all of them, releasing just 312. Now, some leaders across the state are looking for a way to change the small board that did all that denying.

This system is broken, said former Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Roy Moore, a Republican. And needs to be examined by the legislature.

Another former Chief Justice, Sue Bell Cobb, a Democrat, agreed.

Theres an old phrase that sunshine is the best antiseptic, she said. The sunshine that AL.com has brought upon the decisions by the Alabama parole board chair exemplifies this old adage.

Already, things appear to be changing. Numbers from January show a 19% parole rate, far higher than the 8% rate of 2023.

Numbers from February arent available yet, but AL.com attended 57 hearings in February and March and witnessed a 16% parole rate.

Meanwhile, state lawmakers this year introduced five bills focusing on the parole board, its members and how they make their decisions.

Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa, said theres a new motivation in Montgomery to talk about Alabamas unwillingness to let people out of overcrowded prisons and find solutions.

The system was never designed to have a parole board that didnt let anyone out, said England.

Whats next?

Currently, inmates cant attend their own parole hearings. Occasionally, lawyers will record a voice memo on their phones to play in front of the board. Thats not typical, though, and many inmates dont have lawyers.

England introduced a bill that would change that, allowing inmates to appear virtually before the board. And he introduced three more bills.

The second would change who gets a say in the decisions. The bill aims to increase the number of parole board members from the current three to five, reducing the power of any single board member.

Last year, the board also ignored its own criteria on who should be let out, as 4 out of 5 inmates who came before the board met the boards own guidelines for parole. England wants to change that too.

His third bill seeks to create something called the Criminal Justice Policy Development Council, which would develop a new risk assessment for those up for parole. The bill would require the parole board to use those guidelines, and explain any deviations. The bill would also set up a way inmates could appeal if they met the state guidelines but were denied anyway.

Alabama has also been reluctant to parole inmates with cancer, serious illness or failing health due to old age. The board rejected all 10 people over 80 who were up for parole in fiscal year 2023.

Englands fourth bill seeks to give weighted consideration to the health of an inmate when deciding parole. It calls for inmates 60 and above who are denied parole to be given a detailed plan on how to improve their chances for their next hearing. It has other provisions for inmates seeking medical parole and medical furlough.

Theres evidence there is some recognition on both sides of the aisle that something is wrong, said England, saying there could be bipartisan movement on paroles. And recognizing that if they continue to operate as they are, we will never be able to build a big enough prison for or hire enough people to care for the population theyre creating.

Whats different?

Already, things may be shifting. Three members sit on the states parole board. Their decisions are final.

One member almost always voted no in 2023. Last summer, the ACLU of Alabama attended parole hearings and recorded each members vote. According to data gathered by the ACLU over a 10-week period, the board heard 251 parole hearings in June and July of 2023. In those, chairperson Leigh Gwathney voted to grant parole in just six cases  or 2.4% of the time.

This year, thats changed slightly. The bureau doesnt electronically record which member voted yea or no per inmate, a spokesperson said, but in the hearings attended by AL.com this year, chairperson Leigh Gwathney voted yea in 6 out of 52 cases where the votes were read aloud.

Thats 11.5%.

The uptick appeared to begin in early 2024, as seen in the bureaus January numbers.

Gwathney has not discussed her voting with AL.com nor commented on the reporting.

AL.com began reporting its series, Denied: Alabamas Broken Parole System, in January.

Alabama struggles with prisons at 168% capacity, prisons so overcrowded the Justice Department is challenging them as unusually deadly and unconstitutionally cruel in a trial set to begin this fall.

In the series, AL.com explored decisions by the state not to create more space by releasing people who were eligible, the vast majority of whom met the states own criteria for release.

People denied parole include those on work release, like Christopher M. McClinton. Arrested years ago for marijuana, McClinton spends his days selling fast food and his nights sleeping at a work release center. But the board thought he shouldnt be able to spend his nights at home with his mother and denied his parole last year.

They denied Kenneth McCroskey, who was sent back to prison on a technical violation because he missed a meeting with his parole officer. His parole officer didnt think he should be sent back, but that didnt matter to the board. And now hes back indefinitely, serving a life sentence for a 1996 third-degree robbery.

There are people being denied for crimes across the spectrum; not getting out for drug crimes, crimes from the 80s and 90s where they got a sentence they wouldnt get today under updated Alabama laws.

And yet, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has said there is no one left to reform in Alabama prisons. His office often sends someone to oppose parole, and when they do, data shows that Gwathney votes with them.

When asked if the states top prosecutor still stood by that remark, or had anything else to add on the situation, a spokesperson responded via email:

We do not have anything further to add, said the spokesperson for the Attorney General, as we disagree with the premise of every article you have written on the topic.

Whats the effect?

Douglas Layton Jr. said the constant parole denials led to a loss of hope across the lock-ups. Layton was denied parole after years of a clean prison record, but got out under a separate court order.

That hopelessness can lead to more dangerous conditions in prison; conditions the feds are set to challenge in court this fall.

Sen. Linda Coleman-Madison, D-Birmingham, said the parole system isnt helping rehabilitation efforts.

Everyone deserves a second chance, but our laws dont say that. The Pardons and Parole system in Alabama is not working but we refuse to change it, thats not good business practice. If it does not work we should see what best practices do, and try something new.

At the same time, according to a presentation given by Alabama Department of Corrections Commissioner John Hamm to state lawmakers, there are 17,549 inmates who cannot earn Correctional Incentive Time, or whats better known as good time.

Thats nearly all of Alabamas inmates. The latest available data from the department shows that, in December, there were 20,497 inmates in prisons across the state.

Coleman-Madison said the two combined to leave little incentive in a dog-eat-dog environment.

Low level felons should be offered incentives to rehabilitate, said Coleman-Madison via email.

A fifth bill, sponsored by Coleman-Madison, seeks to require the board to restore voting rights for certain people who meet the criteria.

Coleman-Madison said via email, The name is Pardons and Parole. Theyve not been doing much of either in more than a decade.

Certainly not everyone deserves to be released but many do. Because they have not done a good job, violence in our prisons have escalated. I do feel an oversight committee or a review board is needed. I realize victims and their families have rights but everyone should be given opportunity to repent and change.

England said the bills appear to have momentum this year.

All of these things, these stories, are shining a brand new light on how bad the situation is.

This project was completed with the support of a grant from Columbia Universitys Ira A. Lipman Center for Journalism and Civil and Human Rights in conjunction with Arnold Ventures.
Democrat Marilyn Lands defeated Republican Teddy Powell in a special election Tuesday night for a state House seat in north Alabama that drew national attention.

Lands, a licensed professional counselor, flipped the seat from red to blue by besting Powell, a Madison city councilman, 62 percent to 38 percent with 100percent of the precincts in District 10 reporting, according to unofficial results posted on the Alabama Secretary of States Office website.

The race drew national interest against the backdrop of the controversial Alabama State Supreme Court ruling that frozen embryos are considered children under state law.

The seat became vacant when ex-Rep. David Cole resigned after pleading guilty to illegal voting.

Lands, who lost to Cole in 2022, made the ruling a focus of her campaign for the district covering parts of Madison County.

We need to continue to protect at this point where we are at with the right to contraception, she told the Huntsville Times Lede.

Of her victory Tuesday, Lands said, Today, Alabama women and families sent a clear message that will be heard in Montgomery and across the nation. Our legislature must repeal Alabamas no-exceptions abortion ban, fully restore access to IVF, and protect the right to contraception.

Heather Williams, president of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, the Democratic Party organization that focuses on state legislative races, called Lands victory a political earthquake.

Tonights victory is a political earthquake in Alabama  the heart of Republican territory and ground zero for the most egregious attacks on our fundamental freedoms, she said. In the first real test of backlash from voters on attacks on reproductive care and IVF, Alabama voters showed up in force to support Democrat Marilyn Lands, who ran courageously and unabashedly as a defender of reproductive freedoms.

Powell thanked his supporters and campaign volunteers in a statement conceding the race.

We are proud of the campaign we ran, he said. We ran a tough and respectful race and that is something we are incredibly proud of. Our state has so much to offer and I believe if we can come together, we can accomplish great things.
The governor has set a time frame for the next execution in Alabama, this time to be carried out by the previously used method of lethal injection.

Gov. Kay Ivey announced that Jamie Ray Mills will be put to death sometime between 12:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 30, and Friday, May 31. The lethal injection will happen at William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore. The south Alabama prison houses the states only execution chamber.

Mills, 50, was convicted of three counts of capital murder for the June 2004 killings of Floyd Hill and Vera Hill.

The north Alabama couple was beaten to death by Mills, according to court records. Mills and his wife then robbed the Hills home.

Vera Hill, 72, was in poor health. Her husband of 55 years, Floyd Hill, was 87 years old and her caretaker.

Iveys announcement comes after a change in the way Alabama sets execution dates. Prior to January 2023, the Alabama Supreme Court issued a death warrant, good for one 24-hour period. Now, the Alabama governor sets a time frame for the execution. The change allows the Alabama Department of Corrections more time to carry out executions, after a slew of lethal injections had to be called off because they couldnt be completed before midnight on their respective dates.

Jamie Mills was convicted and sentenced to death by a jury vote of 11-1.

The lethal injection comes after Alabama conducted the countrys first execution using nitrogen gas earlier this year. Kenneth Eugene Smith died January 25 by inhaling pure nitrogen through a gas mask, while the state faced national scrutiny for using the untested method.

After nitrogen gas was approved as a method of execution, death row prisoners were given an opportunity to choose that method over lethal injection but Mills did not opt in.
Marilyn Lands victory in Alabama should be a major warning sign to Donald Trump after the Democrat made the state Supreme Courts controversial in vitro fertilization ruling a cornerstone of her successful campaign Tuesday in flipping a state House seat from red to blue, Joe Bidens campaign manager said.

Last month, Alabamans [sic] lost access to fertility treatments because of Donald Trump. Tonight, the voters in Alabamas 10th House District elected a pro-choice champion in Marilyn Lands, sending Trump and extreme MAGA Republicans a clear message: they know exactly whos to blame for restricting their ability to decide how and when to build their families and theyre ready to fight back, said Biden-Harris Campaign Manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez in a statement shortly after Lands defeated Madison City Councilman Teddy Powell in the Alabama House District 10 special election.

Lands win marks the first net gain for the Democrats in either chamber of the Alabama Legislature since 2002, Alabama Reflector reported.

In the Huntsville AL area, Democrats have flipped state House District 10 tonight. In 2022, Marilyn Lands (D) lost by about 7 points. This time, she won by almost 25%, sweeping nearly everything.



This was a stronger margin here than Doug Jones's 23-point spread from 2017. pic.twitter.com/NUlH8cZEeF  J. Miles Coleman (@JMilesColeman) March 27, 2024

Chavez Rodriguez said the U.S. Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade, made possible by Trump nominating three conservative justices, paved the way for attacks on womens freedom like we saw in Alabama.

Tonights results should serve as a major warning sign for Trump: voters will not stand for his attacks on reproductive health care, she said. This November will be no different.

While congressional Republicans tried to clean up their attacks on reproductive health care, Chavez Rodriguez continued, Democratic state Rep.-Elect Marilyn Lands ran  and won  on a platform of protecting reproductive freedoms and calling out MAGA Republicans for their extreme anti-reproductive rights agenda.

Chavez Rodriguez was referring to Lands ad on the issue:










English News China's inbound tourism market sees continuous pickup

Alwihda Info | Par People's Daily - 25 Mars 2024



It is reported that on Ctrip's international platform Trip.com, overseas tourists can make reservations for various inbound tourism products and services, including hotels, flights, train tickets, car rentals, airport transfers, attraction tickets, travel photography, dining, WiFi, and SIM cards. Currently, Trip.com provides services in 24 languages, covering 39 countries and regions.

By Zhao Shan To further promote Chinese-foreign personnel exchanges, China has adopted a visa-free policy for Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg on a trial basis, which is effective from March 14 to November 30 this year.



According to Tongcheng Research Institute, the research arm under Chinese online tourism service provider Tongcheng Travel, the six countries included in the visa-free policy this time have close tourism exchanges with China. In March, the average daily bookings of inbound air tickets from Austria increased by 70 percent compared to the January-February period, while that from Switzerland also went up by 52 percent compared to the January-February period.



In recent times, China has been continuously expanding its visa-free "circle of friends," and the tourism industry is expecting a significant increase in tourist orders from visa-free countries visiting China in the near future.



The head of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recently noted that China's recent unilateral visa-free policies for multiple countries are an important measure to help the global tourism industry recover.



According to the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, outbound and inbound tourism from China is expected to proliferate in 2024 due to visa facilitation and increased airline capacity.



The international cruise ship Zuiderdam recently arrived at Dalian port in northeast China's Liaoning province. It was the first international cruise ship to visit a city in northeast China since China resumed international cruise transportation in September last year.



The cruise ship carried over 2,000 tourists from 47 countries and regions to Dalian, who later visited various attractions in the city, including ocean parks, city squares and featured blocks.



Recently, Zhengzhou, central China's Henan province welcomed the first batch of tourists from Australia after the Spring Festival, most of whom came to Henan for the first time.



In recent years, the Department of Culture and Tourism of Henan Province has been actively promoting the international tourism brand of the province. It has conducted systematic international promotion activities, built cultural brands for overseas markets and established a cooperation system for inbound tourism. Positive results have been achieved.



In March, the province gradually welcomed thousands of tourists from countries and regions such as Australia, Italy, Germany, Luxembourg, South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand.



Recently, the attractiveness of China's tourism market has been continuously increasing, with a large number of South Korean tourists visiting Zhangjiajie, a famous tourist city in central China's Hunan province. According to statistics, from early January to the end of February, Zhangjiajie received 98,000 inbound tourists, a 34-fold increase compared to the same period last year, with 42,000 of them from South Korea.



It is reported that Zhangjiajie has been focusing on creating unique tourism products to continuously attract South Korean tourists. Taking into account their preference for scenic landscapes, Zhangjiajie has introduced international tourism products centering on its amazing natural landscapes.



Given the similarities between China and South Korea in "filial piety culture," Zhangjiajie has successfully made its name in the South Korean tourism market, earning praise among Korean tourists that taking parents on a trip to Zhangjiajie is an expression of filial piety.



In response to the rapidly recovering inbound tourism market, the tourism industry has taken swift action to enhance the appeal of Chinese tourism overseas.



Recently, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism organized 13 regions across China, including Beijing and Shanghai, to participate in this year's ITB Berlin, a tourism trade show considered one of the largest exhibitions in the global tourism industry.



The Chinese delegation became one of the highlights of the event. China Tourism Group Travel Services Co., Ltd. exhibited over 50 distinctive inbound tourism routes to Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai, and other places, providing diverse options for different European customer segments. It also held in-depth discussions with more than 40 overseas travel agencies regarding customized tours, family trips, and group tours.



Xu Xiaolei, the Chief Brand Officer of China CYTS Tours Holding Co., Ltd., told People's Daily that CYTS will continue to boost the inbound tourism market this year.



"We will focus on addressing the pain points of inbound tourism, such as payment, internet access, translation, and tour guides. We will also explore simplified processes for overseas visa application centers, increase the promotion of tourism resources to overseas customers, expand our customer base, and make full use of resources such as multilingual websites developed by CYTS and specialized training for tour guides, so as to ensure the quality of our services," Xu said.



Sun Bowen, executive secretary-general of a research institute under Chinese online travel agency Ctrip, said that Ctrip will leverage technology, international resources, talent development, and e-commerce support programs to enhance the convenience of inbound tourism.



It is reported that on Ctrip's international platform Trip.com, overseas tourists can make reservations for various inbound tourism products and services, including hotels, flights, train tickets, car rentals, airport transfers, attraction tickets, travel photography, dining, WiFi, and SIM cards. Currently, Trip.com provides services in 24 languages, covering 39 countries and regions.



Dans la meme rubrique : < > Keeping pace with China is keeping pace with opportunities 5G technology sees application in various industries in China New journey begins for fourth phase of China's lunar exploration program Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena)
The deepest principles of capitalism are found in the definition of free trade: A willing buyer and a willing seller deciding on a transaction without outside coercion.

Two individuals arrive at an agreement. This point is critical.

Capitalism exists only in individual freedom to choose. True capitalism doesnt spring from any law or any government. The economic system called capitalism arose naturally from the individual freedom on which our nation was founded.

For eons, mankind has bartered, the first seeds of capitalism  but all nations were subject to their more powerful neighbor taking through force. Free markets didnt reach their full power until our nation was founded on the concept of the sanctity of the individual. No other nation codified the concept of inalienable rights, from our creator, not man, until our Declaration of Independence and Constitution were forged. The entire concept of capitalism is that free trade and individual rights inexorably united our nation and the sanctity of the individual into one concept.

Therefore, the single role of government is to protect the individual freedoms that accrue from our creator.

Capitalism has been maligned for decades. The main arguments against are greed and avarice. No doubt some capitalists are guilty; however, the vast majority of business owners, inventors, and founders created a better way that other people want. In a capitalist economy, individuals decide, not governments.

Cronyism

Cronyism is not capitalism. Cronyism uses the power of government to subvert free enterprise. It creates an unfair advantage through manipulation of a market. While it is legal for Musk or a Buffett to use government contracts to keep a market to themselves, it is not ethical to do so. For instance, the subsidy E.V.s get from the government distorts the market; it takes money in the form of taxes from one person to pay off another.

The subsidy that E.V. buyers get is actually taken from other people, through taxation, to benefit one small group, thus costing the majority. If the E.V. were desirable in a free, capitalist market, then it would not need a federal subsidy.

Taxation

All federal revenue comes from taking from the individual. The government is not capable of generating profit, so it must tax its citizens. Government is antithetical to individual freedom and, therefore, to capitalism. Its a zero-sum game: what government has, it must take and the individual must give up. There must be a limit, a balance.

Citizens realize that some portion of their income should go to supporting our government. But when a certain group pays the vast majority of taxes, and when another group pays no taxes, the burden is not equally partitioned. The high wageearners are disproportionately impaired, while low wageearners pay almost nothing. The system will not long sustain itself.

There is a point at which the tax burden becomes untenable. At that point, businesses and the wealthy will seek tax shelters or even move their product lines offshore. This is self-limiting, since tax revenues are dependent on profits, and business profits will decline as tax rates increase.

Our nations founders recognized the need for limited government. Therefore, the compromise, so brilliantly executed in our Constitution, is to limit government activity to highly restricted avenues. They gave taxing authority only to a body that regularly must stand for re-election by the very people they tax.

Big Government politicians found a way around the Constitution by robbing Peter to pay Paul, so they could always get Pauls vote. But this is a highly limited endeavor, since Peter, the producer of wages and taxes, will eventually rebel. Ayn Rand wrote volumes on this topic, as did Milton Freedman and the entire Austrian Schools of Economics.

Federal Debt

Federal debt is really your debt, since every wage-earner must pay it back.

When the government, especially the Administrative State and Congress, spend more that they take in through taxes, the government places every citizen in our nation into debt, just so the politicians can continue to spend other peoples money.

The solution is to force government, through elected politicians, to stop and reduce spending. How many more welfare programs do we need? How effective are the programs in place? Would not private enterprise better serve the needs of the needy?

Profit

Profit allows a business to self-perpetuate. Profit requires that the business owner balance employee satisfaction with other costs and sell his product or service for a price above his total cost...and thereby create profit. Remember that capitalism requires a willing buyer. If the seller doesnt provide a product or service that satisfies the buyer, the seller wont sell, and the business will fold.

The key point is that freedom to choose, free of government influence, perpetuates capitalism.

Because capitalism is available for everyone, it has propelled the majority of citizens out of subsistence living to relative wealth. Even the poorest among us benefit greatly from free markets. Its too bad that the government wants to pay people to remain in poverty, using welfare and entitlements. Instead, we should encourage people to engage in the uplifting process of fending for themselves. Entitlement breeds dependency. Free enterprise, capitalism, breeds independence.

The golden thread that unites freedom, capitalism, and our nation is the sanctity of the individual, whose rights are noted in the Declaration of Independence and bestowed by our Creator. Our constitutional republic allows, and even demands, that we exercise our rights as individuals to limit and balance our government.

We have a golden opportunity to right the wrongs and bring order to the chaos.

Jay Davidson is founder and CEO of a commercial bank. He is a student of the Austrian School of Economics and a dedicated capitalist. He believes there is a direct connection joining individual right and responsibility, our Constitution, capitalism, and the intent of our Creator.

Image: pasja1000 via Pixabay, Pixabay License.
The idea that past racism can be undone with more racism is ludicrous. Affirmative action, established in the 1960s, emphasized equality of opportunity. But it has transmogrified  through the politics of DEI, sexual orientation, and gender identity  into a new form of racism emphasizing equality of outcome.

Unconstitutional quotas deny college admissions and government jobs to whites and non-black, non-Latino, non-Native groups. The worst is the recent invasion of healthcare by DEI-driven policies. Belonging to a DEI-privileged group outweighs need. White patients may have to wait longer than blacks or Hispanics for cardiac care or kidney transplants. All in the name of health equity and righting past wrongs done to those groups.

This column will look at four recent lawsuits  among the many  that have been brought against such policies. It will also show how, over the last few years, a retribution-focused movement to embed racial preferences in medical treatment has gained traction in the healthcare industry.

The first case is from Montana, where in 1991, the 52nd legislature enacted and codified House Bill 424 (originally House Joint Resolution 28) as Montana  2-15-108, MCA. The law aimed to take positive action to attain gender balance and proportional representation of minorities in state boards, commissions, committees, and councils. The alleged cause of the imbalance was bias.

In September 2023, two vacancies opened for the 12-member Board of Medical Examiners, but the governor has been unable to make appointments since the appointments must adhere to DEI. Do No Harm, an organization representing physicians and healthcare workers countering DEI in medicine, has filed a suit in U.S. District Court for the District of Montana (Helena Division), saying Montana  2-15-108 violates the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

The DNH lawsuit says one of its members (identified as Member A) has 31 years practice as a dermatologist, is qualified for the post, and is willing to serve  but gender and race mandates stand in the way of her appointment. The Pacific Legal Foundation (PLF) is representing DNH pro bono.

The PLF has also filed a similar case on behalf of DNH in Louisiana. Here, the lawsuit challenges the states La. Statute  37: 1263 (B) as violative of the equal protection clause. The statute governs appointments to the states 10-member medical board. Of its eight subsections, four say every other member appointed under those provisions shall belong to a minority and nothing therein precludes consecutive appointments of minority members.

DNH says it has members qualified and willing to serve as physician and consumer members of the board, but the statute prevents their appointment. Louisiana has similar quotas for other boards and commissions, such as those for barbers, optometry examiners, embalmers, and funeral directors.

The third case, filed on March 12 this year, is a federal lawsuit against the City of San Diego. The citys housing commission has a loan program to assist first-time home buyers who are black, indigenous, or people of color (BIPOC). It offers $40,000 for down payment and closing costs. The Californians for Equal Rights Foundation, represented by PLF, has challenged the program as unconstitutional. For the Constitution bars discrimination based on race or color  no matter what race or color.

The fourth lawsuit, in which a battle was won, was from Arkansas. It related to appointment to the states Social Work Licensing Board. In June 2022, Stephen Haile, a devoted foster care parent with over 300 home placements and extensive experience in child custody issues, sought appointment to the board as a representative of the elderly. Haile was excluded from consideration as he is white and the board is required to have at least two black members.

Represented by PLF, he challenged Arkansass quota law in January 2023. But by March that year, the state legislature abolished the law, and Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed legislation to favor board appointments based solely on individual qualifications. Haile then withdrew his lawsuit.

Such quota systems are rampant now. Researchers for the PLF found that at least 25 states have gender or race quotas for public board membership. Fifteen states have race- or sex-conscious eligibility mandates for nearly every public board. Public Service Denied, a PLF report, details how widespread these discriminatory practices are. It lists sixty-three race- and sex-conscious mandates.

Meanwhile, the National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP), buttressed by the federal Executive Order 13985 of 2021, is working to infect healthcare with DEI ideologies. Training leaders of color, increasing BIPOC participation in the healthcare workforce, mandating diversity training in medical settings  these are the priorities on which it focuses.

In parallel, the Association of American Medical Colleges has required member colleges to implement DEI standards. A move is also afoot to inject race politics into the Hippocratic Oath by rewording or replacing it. The American Medical Association, too, has adopted an anti-racism orientation.

The ostensible aim of such initiatives is to eliminate disparities in quality of, and access to, healthcare. The trouble, though, is that requiring doctors and other medical professionals to take time off from clinical responsibilities to prioritize racial impact makes no sense. Also, alleged systemic racism has nothing to do with illness, for which metabolic and behavioral risk factors carry more weight.

This movement, away from unbiased, need-based care to downright favoring of certain races, is unethical. Sometimes, it is taken to foolish extremes: WhiteCoats4BlackLives (WC4BL), for example, said that policing is incompatible with health and persuaded hundreds of state and local governments to declare racism a public health issue. But sadly, the effects of DEI ideology are in evidence in many areas of public health and healthcare.

It was seen, most egregiously perhaps, during the COVID pandemic, when 1,200 medical professionals signed an open letter saying they do not condemn riots organized by Black Lives Matter as risky, prioritizing opposition to racism as vital to public health. When vaccines became available, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said black senior citizens were the highest risk group and concluded that race should be prioritized over age!

The Brigham and Womens Hospital, Boston, has a program that gives preference to black and Latino patients with heart failure, ostensibly to make up for past less attentive care. However, the program is based on a flawed 2019 study (itself based on others) that claimed to demonstrate the presence of structural racism in admission service for heart failure patients.

A similar policy prioritizing DEI-privileged groups has delayed the treatment of more than 10 million non-black nephrology patients, some of whom require kidney transplants. A new qualifications system adopted by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), a non-profit managing organ transplants in the U.S., prioritizes black patients for treatment.

Whether it is appointments to boards, medical care, college admissions, jobs or other benefits, unfair considerations of race now predominate. Policies discriminating against whites and other groups  Asians, for example  are falsely hailed as reparative for targeted minorities.

The process began in the 1960s, with the slow abandonment of the constitutional ideal forbidding any form of racial distinction. Then, DEI and social justice, and later, sexual orientation (in 1998) and gender identity (in 2014), became pervasive. This new racism violates the basic tenets of our constitutional republic. It should not be allowed to stand.

Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required.
Convicted felon Chris Pettit wants to dump his criminal defense lawyer, have court-appointed counsel. Jerry Lara/Staff photographer

Chris Pettit, the ex-attorney who was sentenced last month to 50 years in federal prison for stealing millions of dollars from his clients, wants to dismiss his criminal defense lawyer and is asking the court to appoint a new one for him.

In court papers filed Monday, he says San Antonio criminal lawyer Matthew T. Allen has failed to provide an adequate and reasonable defense.

Defendant has lost faith in counsel and no longer trusts counsels advice, Pettit says in his motion asking a judge to dismiss Allen.

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He filed a separate motion asking for a new attorney, saying he is wholly destitute of means to provide counsel.

In an email Tuesday, Allen declined to comment on the filings.

Pettit appears to have used boilerplate court documents to make the requests. The motion-to-dismiss filing contains references to appointed counsel. He crossed out the word appointed in six instances where it appeared and and initialed each. Allen was hired by Pettit, not appointed by the court.

The document also says if Defendant is obliged to stand trial with the representation of said counsel, he will be denied a fair trial, will have ineffective counsel and will be denied his basic constitutional rights.

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However, Pettit struck a plea deal in September and waived his right to a trial. He pleaded guilty to three counts each of wire fraud and money laundering related to the theft of as much as $65 million in client funds.

About a month after being sentenced to 50 years in federal prison for stealing from his former law clients, ex-attorney Chris Pettit wants a judge to dismiss his defense lawyer and appoint him new counsel. Jerry Lara, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

He has to return to court for the restitution phase of his sentencing, so hell want a lawyer representing him then. That hearing has not been scheduled but U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia said at the Feb. 21 sentencing that it would be within 90 days.

Robert Almonte II, a former assistant U.S. attorney who led the prosecution of Pettit before resigning to go into private practice, called the court filings super odd because of their timing. Generally, a motion to dismiss counsel would be filed before a trial, he said.

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It doesnt make a lot of sense from just some of the language in there, he added.

Under the plea agreement, Pettit gave up a lot of his rights to appeal. But there are some exceptions, Almonte said, including if the defendant argues ineffective assistance of counsel  as Pettit is now doing.

The basis for his argument to seek new counsel isnt on point, Almonte added.
Was the Islamic State (ISIS) behind the Crocus City Hall terror attack in Moscow that killed 139 and wounded 182 on Mar. 22, 2024, or not?

Not only did the Islamic State claim the attack, but the Western mainstream is agreed that it was, indeed, behind it. On Mar. 25, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said,

ISIS bears the sole responsibility here  the sole responsibility. And Mr. Putin understands that. ... [T]here is no evidence  absolutely no evidence that Ukraine was involved here.

Jean-Pierre specifically referred to a March 7 public advisory which warned Americans in Russia to stay away from concert venues due to a threat of attacks by extremists.

Russia, on the other hand, while agreeing that the perpetrators were, in Putins words, radical Islamists, believes that they were ultimately working for  hence captured fleeing to  Ukraine.

Wheres the truth?

Unfortunately, its hard to take the word of the Biden administration (on anything). Moreover, it is only to be expected that it would shield Ukraine  its close ally and recipient of $75 billion + in U.S. tax dollars  from any suspicion. As for warning against  meaning foreknowing about  Islamic terror attacks targeting Russian concert halls, this fact can be understood, and is being understood in Russian circles, in a completely different way.

Finally, that Muslim terrorists would randomly pick Russia, of all nations, to attack now  when it is at war with another Western nation  does seem to be more than a coincidence.

And yet  especially concerning this last observation  there are some overlooked points to consider that do lend weight to the view that ISIS is indeed behind the attack.

For starters, and as discussed in this article, because ISIS and its followers are strict and literal adherents to Islamic teachings, their behavior often comes off as counterintuitive if not downright erratic.

For instance, in early January ISIS issued a statement arguing that true Muslims must not support or fight on behalf of the Palestinian Authority; that Palestinian liberation was a joke; and that Shia Iran  while presenting itself as the great enemy of Israel  is the true enemy of Muslims (in fact, the ISIS communique came a day after ISIS took credit for a terror attack on Kerman, Iran, where some 100 were killed).

Needless to say, many Muslims were shocked by these assertions and actions (prompting renewed allegations that ISIS is a creation of the CIA, etc.). And yet, all of ISISs seemingly counterintuitive claims were (as more closely discussed here) consistent with Islamic teachings.

As one example, why should Muslims support or fight for the Palestinian Authority against Israel, ISIS argued, when the PA is secular and does not enforce sharia  meaning it is an apostate entity that only pays lip service to Islam? Why bother empowering one infidel (PA) over another (Israel)?

As for what, according to ISIS, Muslims should be doing, this was reflected in the title of the terror groups communique  Kill Them Wherever You Find Them  a paraphrase of Koran 9:5, known in Islamic jurisprudence as the Verse of the Sword (which has alone abrogated 124 other, more peaceful, verses):

[K]ill the mushrikin [pagans, idolaters, in short, non-Muslims] wherever you find them, capture them, besiege them, and lie in wait for them on every way.

More to the point, ISIS expounded on how best to realize Koran 9:5 by urging the lions of Islam  meaning any would-be jihadists  to,

Chase your preys whether Jewish, Christian or their allies, on the streets and roads of America, Europe, and the world. Break into their homes, kill them and steal their peace of mind by any means you can lay hands on. ... [D]etonate explosives, burn them with grenades and fiery agents, shoot them with bullets, cut their throats with sharp knives, and run them over with vehicles. ... Come at them from every door, kill them by the worst of means, turn their gatherings and celebrations into bloody massacres, do not distinguish between a civilian kaffir [infidel], and a military one, for they are all kuffar [infidels] and the ruling against them is one.

What happened in Moscow completely conforms to this call by ISIS, irrespective of all suspicions and curious circumstances (war with Ukraine, etc.). On the Korans mandate to kill them wherever you find them, Muslims  ethnic Tajikis, descendants of the Turco-Tatars who terrorized Christian Russia for centuries  found a large gathering and celebration of their historic archenemies, and turned it into a bloody massacre.

Such is the seeming caprice and nihilism of Islamic terrorism: it knows no bounds and can strike at any time and any place, without rhyme or reason  as evidenced by all of the random terror attacks to plague Western cities in recent years: the Madrid 2004 and London 2005 train bombings (193 and 56 killed, respectively), the many in France, including Paris 2015 and Nice 2016 (137 and 87 killed), Brussels 2016 (35 killed), and Barcelona 2017 (24 killed), to name but a very few.

While one can read much into any of these attacks  why they occurred when and where they did  such attacks could also be mere manifestations of Allahs open-ended command to kill infidels wherever and whenever they are found.

Raymond Ibrahim, author of Defenders of the West and Sword and Scimitar, is the Distinguished Senior Shillman Fellow at the Gatestone Institute and the Judith Rosen Friedman Fellow at the Middle East Forum.

Image: G20 Argentina via Flickr, CC BY 2.0.
After George Washington, things got kind of dicey. Jefferson verses Adams happened twice. The first time, Adams won, and the next time, Jefferson won. Sound familiar? The election of 1800 showcased the introduction of the ticket  the coupling of president and vice president  rather than making the electoral runner-up vice president...since, under the old rule, both were likely to be bitter rivals. The ratification of the 12th Amendment in 1804 formalized this process.

Partially due to the limits of early 19th-century medical ability, presidents had a tendency to die in office. Between Andrew Jackson and Abraham Lincoln, no president was ever inaugurated for a second term  eight presidents over a period of 28 years  though some of these results may have also reflected the opinions of the voters. Lincoln was the first president to be murdered while in office, and the practice continued with Garfield and McKinley shortly thereafter. Kennedys murder didnt happen until over 60 years after McKinleys, the delay possibly being due to more sophisticated security...until...

A most interesting story concerns John Tyler, who, as vice president, succeeded William Henry Harrison, when Harrison managed to catch cold at his inauguration and die 30 days later. In 1843, aboard the USS Princeton on a pleasure cruise down the Potomac, Tyler was below deck when a topside gun exploded while firing a salute. The U.S. secretaries of state and the Navy were killed. The Navy secretarys daughter was down below with Tyler, and they married soon thereafter. Almost sounds like pulp fiction.

Oftentimes, when the vice president would ascend to the presidency on the death of the president, no new vice president would be selected to fill the void. Also, presidents seeking a second term would often change their running mate. Lincolns first veep was Hannibal Hamlin...what a great name. FDR had three vice presidents.

Speaking of FDR, no overview of the U.S. presidency would be anywhere near complete without including the exceptional three-plus terms of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Not only is he the only person ever to serve more than two full terms  a feat that cannot now be repeated because of the 22nd Amendment  but such also occurred during some of the most critical years of American and world history. He was also the only paraplegic to ever be president, even though only one photograph of him in a wheelchair was ever taken, and that was probably by accident.

The election campaign of 1932 has been seriously mischaracterized. Writers, especially of the left, make the Depression the main issue, with FDR being considered better able to deal with it than stodgy old Herbert Hoover. However, Prohibition was the real dominant issue  this according to Paul Johnson in Modern Times. I posed this to my mother, since that was the first election in which she ever voted. She slapped her face and said, Thats right! Roosevelt was a Wet, and Hoover was a Dry.

Soon after the election was concluded, another financial panic began, taking the form of a run on the nations banks. Hoover implored the incoming FDR to make a speech so as to calm things down, but FDR declined. And so, from November 8, 1932 to FDRs inauguration on March 4, 1933, the United States endured a run on the banks that has not since been repeated in its severity. When FDR took office, he closed the banks and boasted to the American public that he had a list of every person who recently withdrew gold from a bank and, if all of them didnt put it right back, theyd be sorry. When the banks re-opened, things calmed back down. Shortly thereafter, the Constitution was amended to move the inauguration up a month and a half to January 20. This is known as the Lame Duck Amendment.

A particularly intimate biography of FDR was written by the well known political columnists Joseph and Stewart Alsop. They just happened to be FDRs cousins, and thus knew him quite well. As a schoolboy at Groton, FDR was known as the Feather Duster because he was such a superficial lightweight. Some speculators say he eventually became a serious person because of his polio, but the Alsops say that his love affair with Eleanors private secretary caused the tension in his life that forced him into serious adulthood. Ultimately, he died in the arms of the same mistress.

Thaddeus Russel, in A Renegade History of the United States, devotes an entire chapter to expressing the similarities between FDRs New Deal and Hitlers Third Reich. The immense concentration of authority in the head of the government and its consequences is the most obvious of these similarities. Though, with more subtlety than Hitlers racist rantings, the New Deal also endorsed eugenics, the forced sterilization of individuals who were deemed unfit to reproduce. Both FDR and Hitler considered such genetic culling of the herd a profound benefit for the destiny of the human race.

Unmentioned by Russel is that both FDR and Hitler pioneered the exploitation of modern technology for political gain. Hitler used loudspeakers to enhance his communication to the masses at outdoor rallies. FDR did him one better and became a broadcast radio personality, and thus a familiar presence in many of Americas living rooms.

In the years following the New Deal, much of the power concentrated in the Executive continued to remain intact. Some political scientists say the three branches of our federal government are not really co-equal  with Congress being on top due to its control of the purse strings. The presidency, however, is but one person and is thus not subject to the wrangling and compromises needed to achieve a majority. And the Judiciary, though it is the final arbiter of what our laws actually mean, has no direct ability to enforce its rulings.

An odd aspect of the presidency has to do with the names that we know some of them by. Ulysses S. Grants real first name was Hiram, but U.S. Grant was politically more appealing. Woodrow Wilsons real first name was Thomas...so ordinary. Harry S. Truman inserted the S for a better cadence, since he had no middle name.

Image via Picryl.
While I share the widely publicized concern that banning TikTok will enrich Meta, Google, and Snap Inc., the real winners of this maneuver havent been mentioned, and empowering them would limit viewpoint diversity and freedom of speech, making it harder for content creators like me to find an audience.

I host a small political podcast on which I and my colleagues frequently critique the government. As a small outfit with no big names, we rely on social media algorithms to connect us to audiences interested in our content. We have found that not all platforms are equal in this regard: TikTok, in our experience, has been the best at that job, YouTube is okay, but Instagram is a disaster. If lawmakers ban TikTok, the only platforms left will be those that are 1) worse at helping small creators find an audience and 2) more likely to play ball with the Censorship Industrial Complex (CIC).

Originally defined by American author and journalist Micheal Shellenberger, the CIC is an informal network of government, non-profit organizations, and big tech companies collaborating to censor social media and drive a collective understanding of politics conducive to their interests. According to Mike Benz, former cyber security specialist at the State Department, the arrangement for the CIC was created to fight the war on terror, used to encourage the Arab Spring, then turned on the West in the aftermath of Brexit and the 2016 election of Donald Trump. Their work culminated with the arrangement to suppress the Biden Laptop story.

Its this hidden censorship regime, the one that in 2020 suppressed the Biden laptop story and encouraged Facebook to suppress truthful but inconvenient COVID19 information on Facebook, that stands to win the most from a TikTok ban. Removing a platform that at times challenges the accepted narrative would give even more power to that group of government actors (and their private counterparts) to decide what content gets promoted -- and what content gets buried by the algorithm.

Most recently, TikTok failed to follow the line on suppressing anti-Israel speech enough for the powers that be. However, perhaps even more concerning for the CIC was when TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew testified before Congress, making TikToks point of view and danger clear: They would resist any government censorship of the platform.

Senator Marsha Blackburn mentioned these thought crimes in her PR for the ban. It would not be surprising that the Chinese-owned TikTok is pushing pro-Hamas content, she said. The CCP benefits by destabilizing the Middle East and pushing the United States to put more manpower back into the region.

But proponents of the ban have not proven that this TikTok content is an intentional move to undermine the American publics faith in their institutions or to inspire viewers to campaign for Hamas. Its just as likely that these videos do better because they appeal to the user base, and the algorithm is simply giving viewers the videos they want to see.

It should always raise your tyranny antenna when a politician claims that speech by Americans to other Americans is divisive and being amplified (without any evidence) with the malicious intent to undermine our foreign policy somehow. Perhaps the youth just disagree with you, Senator, and these videos get the views the do because Bytedance wants to make more money keeping people on the app and seeing ads?

In a republic like ours, U.S. foreign policy should be up for debate -- without the government selectively pushing narratives on us. Shutting down a side of debate by having companies demote posts or rerouting links to government approved outlets is censorship and destructive.

Im not idealizing TikTok or Bytedance. They have their own issues of censorship, telling users to Get info on US Elections and Get the facts about COVID on some videos. But we need multiple social media platforms to ensure competition and limit the ease of censorship. Our goal shouldnt be to mimic Chinese censorship but to champion freedom of expression.

Rather than killing off an entire media platform, Congress should go after censors themselves. Congress should ban the executive branchs misuse of third parties for opinion manipulation and reform the intelligence agencies responsible. Defund the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Atlantic Council. We have the guideposts for it; weve done it before. Simply restore the point of the Church Committee reform and clarify: Intel agencies cant operate in the U.S. to manipulate public opinion.

In our fight for freedom of speech and specifically tolerance for speech critical of the government, surrendering the digital public square to a clandestine censorship cartel is a forfeiture of our liberty.

David Rand is a Young Voices Contributor, Podc

ast Philosopher at Human [Re]Action, Media, and Political Consultant.

Image: TikTok
How many times have you heard a variation of the lie that nobody wants to take anybodys guns away? Or read in an editorial that President Biden Does Not Want to Take Your Guns Away?

Probably more times than you can count. Thats because leftists are following in the footsteps of Joseph Goebbels and Vladamir Lenin in always repeating a lie to make it the truth. They keep on saying that no one is talking about taking your guns, even though weve documented that they have been talking about it for more than 30 years now, in order to lull as many people as possible into a false sense of security.

Anti-liberty leftists think that if they keep on gaslighting this point, they can get people to accept the incremental moves to gun registration that will inevitably lead to gun confiscation.

Never mind that draconian controls on your private property with so-called universal background checks wont do anything to stop crime. They are a stepping stone to gun confiscation.

Never mind that forcing you to get liability insurance on a commonsense human right wont do anything to stop crime. It is a stepping stone to gun confiscation.

Never mind that even more draconian controls over your private property with so-called safe-storage laws wont do anything to stop crime. They are another stepping stone to gun confiscation.

Are you detecting a central theme in all of this?

Leftist liars (sorry to be redundant) incessantly repeat the nobody wants to take anybodys guns away lie to get people to accept all the steps of draconian private property controls, databases, formal firearm registration, and then finally gun confiscation when its too late. People want to avoid considering leftists evil enough to deprive them of their basic human rights.

Just take a look at some of the cute little proposals theyve made in the past, when they thought that only their authoritarian leftist side would see them. They outline the very steps they are taking right now  with one that was particularly malevolent, implicitly involving going full Nazi for refusing to turn over firearms. Of course, all of these have been carefully documented and archived because of the promise to the past of Never Again.

But now theres a new bureaucracy in town, just when you thought that the sock puppet in chief had had enough of being a modern-day version of Herr Schicklgruber. (Thats just a joke, New York Times  you need to lighten up on your heroes.) The feral government has dialed up the unconstitutional insanity up to eleventy, violating a record number of constitutional amendments all at once.

Glen Beck explains in the video how the current regime is dictatorially violating most of the Bill of Rights  something the national socialist media will infuriatingly project on President Trump as what he might do in the future, while leftists ignore what sock puppet Biden is doing that right now.

Braden from Langley Outdoors Academy noted that he nuked the DOJ Red Flag Center from orbit, but you have to consider that the slippery slope of the way they morphed the language around these unconstitutional abominations should give everyone pause.

Youll notice that whenever they explain these things, it will invariably be in the form of a three-element description. The first carries the implication that these are officially sanctioned, the second tries to use the softest language possible in talking about the confiscation of someones private property without due process (usually avoiding the C-word), and the third element is the rationale for the order.

Over time, theyve softened and made the language as vague as possible to entrap anyone and everyone they can, such as this from 2022 from the Washington Post:

Red-flag (extreme risk) laws  which generally allow police to take firearms away from people who exhibit concerning behavior ...

Note the vague terms, which could be applied to anyone to justify depriving him of his fundamental human rights: people who exhibit concerning behavior. Just who determines what is concerning behavior?

Then consider this recent reference, which phrases the three elements this way:

Red flag laws allow family members or law enforcement officials to get court orders that temporarily take away access to guns if they feel a gun owner may harm themselves or others.

Weve gone from concerning behavior (whatever that is) to feelings that someone may do something. This makes the movie Minority Report look scientifically buttoned down by comparison.

All of this means that they are priming the public to accept these unconstitutional gun confiscations from individuals for minimal reasons  for feelings and concerning behavior. Thus, they can kill two pro-freedom birds with one authoritarian leftist stone.

They can easily confiscate guns from anyone, and they can use it as a punishment because theyve weaponized another government agency because those vague rationales can be used against anyone.

Here we have unconstitutional abominations that have set a record in violating the Bill of Rights and the peoples fundamental freedoms. Weve gone down the slippery slope to vague feelings, and its only going to get worse. Our neighbor to the north is an indication of how bad it can get. Canadas new red flag law would

enable anyone to make an application to a court for an emergency weapons prohibition order (red flag) to immediately remove firearms, for up to 30 days, from: an individual who may pose a danger to themselves or others; and an individual who may be at risk of providing access to firearms to another person who is already subject to a weapons prohibition order.

Anyone can red flag someone who may pose a danger or may be at risk of providing access to firearms to another person who is already subject to a weapons prohibition order, and the victim of this injustice may never find out who perpetrated it because the records may be permanently sealed by a judge.

So, given all the implications that these unconstitutional abominations violate multiple parts of the Bill of Rights and could be easily weaponized, why hasnt the Supreme Court struck them down?

D Parker is an engineer, inventor, wordsmith, and student of history, the director of communications for a civil rights organization, and a long-time contributor to conservative websites. Find him on Substack.

Image via Pexels.
The Gold Hill school in Boulder, Colorado was established at the height of the gold mining boom in 1873. Initially, it was a one-room log cabin constructed by local citizens. In that year, the Boulder County News named Gold Hills new school one of the best schools in the county. These early schools used educational materials such as McGuffeys Reader, which students today would find challenging. The log cabin has been replaced by a two-room structure that continues to offer schooling through the primary grades.

The Gold Hill school was almost destroyed by fire, but the biggest threat was an effort by the Boulder School District to close the school through consolidation. Gold Hill citizens successfully fought to save their school, arguing that busing students down treacherous mountain roads in the winter made no sense.

Gold Hill residents value the close relationship between the school and their community. Citizens are able to observe and monitor the quality of education their children receive. The school has also become a center for community activities. The Gold Hill school, like other schools in Colorado, is supported primarily from local property taxes. This creates an incentive for citizens to closely monitor how their property tax dollars are spent.

Colorado is unique in empowering citizens at the local level to decide how much they are willing to pay in property taxes and other taxes to support schools and other government programs. This is due to the Colorado Constitution, and especially to the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR). TABOR is a constitutional amendment enacted through citizen initiative in 1992 that imposes a cap on revenue and spending at all levels of government in Colorado. If any government in Colorado wants to increase taxes or revenues, issue new debt, or spend surplus revenue above the cap, it must first have voter approval. The ballot must state clearly how the revenue will be increased and how the money will be spent over a given time period.

Over the past three decades, hundreds of ballot measures have been presented to Colorado voters for approval. Few of the ballot measures calling for increased state revenue and spending have been approved. But at the local level, most of the ballot measures pass. When the ballot measures call for increased revenue and spending for schools, they pass at a high rate.

The success of the Gold Hill school helps in understanding why ballot measures at the local level tend to pass. When increased revenue is earmarked for these schools, citizens know exactly what they are getting for their tax dollars. They can observe how their tax dollars are spent and determine whether they are getting their moneys worth.

The Colorado Constitution created a strong federalist system, with much of the power to tax and spend in local government compared to state government. The TABOR amendment has strengthened Colorados federalist system by allowing citizens to express their preference for local taxation and spending. Because of TABOR, citizens at the local level decide how much property taxes and other taxes they will pay and how the revenue will be spent. When schools, such as the Gold Hill school, deliver quality education at a reasonable cost, citizens support them.

The Gold Hill school has become a symbol of freedom for citizens in Colorado. The essence of freedom is the ability of citizens to protect their property rights. For Colorado citizens, this means protecting their personal liberties and also their right to the fruits of their labor. The Colorado Constitution is designed to protect property rights by limiting the power of government to tax and spend, and the TABOR amendment has strengthened these property rights.

Barry Poulson (think@heartland.org) is a policy advisor with The Heartland Institute.

Image: Casey Fiesler
You might have missed it, because I almost did, but informed consent has been quietly erased, just as long as there is minimal risk to the medical subject. Heres the story, from a report by Victor Dalziel and published by Brownstone Institute on Sunday:

In a significant blow to patient autonomy, informed consent has been quietly revoked just 77 years after it was codified in the Nuremberg Code. On the 21st of December 2023, as we were frantically preparing for the festive season, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a final ruling to amend a provision of the 21st Century Cures Act.

For context, the 21st Century Cures Act was a bill introduced by a Democrat, passed by a Republican House and Republican Senate, and signed into law by Obama, in late 2016, about a month before President Trump took office; Dalziel notes the legislation was controversial and had strong support from Big Pharma.

Now, that final FDA ruling took effect about two months ago, on January 22, 2024; as Dalziel notes, this means its already standard practice across America.

Here is the text of the summary of the rule, from the Federal Register:

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA, the Agency, or we) is issuing a final rule to amend its regulations to implement a provision of the 21st Century Cures Act (Cures Act). This final rule allows an exception from the requirement to obtain informed consent when a clinical investigation poses no more than minimal risk to the human subject and includes appropriate safeguards to protect the rights, safety, and welfare of human subjects. The final rule permits an institutional review board (IRB) to waive or alter certain informed consent elements or to waive the requirement to obtain informed consent, under limited conditions, for certain FDA-regulated minimal risk clinical investigations.

In perfect legalese, the language of the rule uses the perfectly subjective minimal risk term which is defined by whom? Per Dalziel:

According to this amendment, the state alone, acting through the NIH, the FDA, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), will decide what is considered a minimal risk....

The rule delegates these agencies with the task of implementing appropriate safeguards to (ostensibly) protect the human subjects. Huh, almost sounds like were lab rats, not people, or individuals, patients, or participants. How did this go for the subjects of the Tuskegee Experiment?

The same bureaucracies full of deep state operatives who are largely responsible for bringing the clot shot to market; who censored and sabotaged the spread of legitimate medical information like the efficacy of ivermectin and other alternative therapies to treat the viruses and bugs spreading around during the pandemic era; who tell us that glyphosate-covered grains and seed oils are healthier than grass-fed beef and butter; who criminalize raw milk over yet shove synthetic cross-sex hormones down our childrens throats, are going to be determining what is risky and whats not? (This list could go on ad nauseam.) How comforting.

Dalziel also highlights another, equally-distressing aspect:

This ruling also allows researchers and their misguided evangelical billionaire backers to potentially pursue dangerous experimental programs such as Bill Gates mosquito vaccines, mRNA vaccines in livestock, and vaccines in aerosols. This Act encourages these novel and high-risk programs, with medical studies approved as minimal risk by the regulators no longer requiring researchers and pharmaceutical companies to obtain patient consent.

While all of this is extremely disturbing, as a colleague noted, informed consent was largely an illusion, and more of a mafia-style coercive sign this or else approach. So, suffice it to say, that if the comforting fiction of informed consent is out the door, theres a silver lining, and that is that the people may wake up to what was already happening anyway.

Image: Ivan Radic, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered.
In the topsy-turvy world of 2024, when good is bad and bad is good, Israel is fighting an existential war with exquisite concern for the well-being of enemy civiliansand the world responds by castigating Israel as a genocidal monster and demanding her surrender. Whats worst of all is the fact that the Biden administration is leading this evil parade. But Israel answers to a higher standard than the opinion of a fallen world.

Israel is a tiny, Jewish, liberal democracy in a sea of 250 million Muslims, most of whom are hostile to her in ways that range from mere hate to genocidal fury. Jews have occupied that same land continuously for 4,000 years. For around 1,900 of those years, they were colonized by imperial forces, usually Muslim. Barring the Druze and Bedouins, almost none of the Muslim Arabs in Israel, Gaza, or the West Bank have roots deeper than the 1830s.

On October 7, Hamas, which controls Gaza (land from which Israel withdrew in 2005, although Donkey Chompers AOC and her ilk seem unaware of that fact), launched a military attack against civilians in Israel. The goal wasnt just to kill people. It was to torture them to death, especially women. Hamas did so with the full (and continuing) approval of a huge majority of Gaza residents.

Image: Israel delivers medical supplies to Gaza. X screen grab.

Because October 7 was a military invasion, Israel responded in a military way by going into Gaza to destroy Hamaswhich, incidentally, is an Iranian puppet army. Iran is an enemy of the U.S., openly dedicated to its destruction, something thats not obvious given Bidens fealty to Irans needs.

Almost immediately, the worlds antisemites started screaming that any war that affected civiliansand the Gaza war does because Hamas is embedded among civilianswas genocide. They were helped by the fact that everyone, including the Biden administration, accepted uncritically the manifestly faked mortality numbers that Hamas published. Indeed, much of what we get from Gaza is theater:

"The grieving Palestinian mother"

Was shot in multiple locations with different support actors.



Pallywood at its best pic.twitter.com/CWo9KSOLjB  Five Lucky Fingers (@5luckyfingers) March 27, 2024

The film industry of Pallywood deserves an Oscar in the category "Deceit"#TimetostandupforIsrael pic.twitter.com/zFt9kEmLgU  Time To Stand Up For Israel (@sabine66sterk) March 21, 2024

#Gaza #Pallywood

The same actress. The same agony. The same little boy. Only the bandage is flipped.

Who's in charge of the props? pic.twitter.com/kBOzan5txL  Itamar Avni / Chief Hasbara Officer (@AvniItamar) March 26, 2024

While there is no question that civilians are suffering and dying in the Gaza war, there is also no question that there is a strategy of cognitive warfare coined Pallywood: Watch, as reused dolls resembling infants, are held up by the same actor in Hamas cognitive domain pic.twitter.com/5PsoUJjciH  dan linnaeus (@DanLinnaeus) March 24, 2024

The reality is that Israel is fighting the war with an exquisite regard for civilian safety. First, its shipping in massive amounts of supplies to support the people in Gazawho, again, support Hamas. Indeed, when Israel raided Shifa hospital, a significant Hamas headquarters, the military brought along doctors to treat patients in the hospital.

I dont know of any other military in history that does this. But Israel does so because she has a military doctrine called Purity of Arms that means that Israeli troops, whenever possible, must put the safety of enemy civilians ahead of themselves:

A fantastic John Spencer article (in Newsweek, of all places) explains how this doctrine plays out on the ground. I urge you to read the whole thing, but heres a sampling:

In many ways, Israel has had to abandon this established playbook in order to prevent civilian harm. The IDF has telegraphed almost every move ahead of time so civilians can relocate, nearly always ceding the element of surprise. This has allowed Hamas to reposition its senior leaders (and the Israel hostages) as needed through the dense urban terrain of Gaza and the miles of underground tunnels it's built. [snip] Israel gave warning, in some cases for weeks, for civilians to evacuate the major urban areas of northern Gaza before it launched its ground campaign in the fall. The IDF reported dropping over 7 million flyers, but it also deployed technologies never used anywhere in the world, as I witness firsthand on a recent trip to Gaza and southern Israel. Israel has made over 70,000 direct phones calls, sent over 13 million text messages and left over 15 million pre-recorded voicemails to notify civilians that they should leave combat areas, where they should go, and what route they should take. They deployed drones with speakers and dropped giant speakers by parachute that began broadcasting for civilians to leave combat areas once they hit the ground. They announced and conducted daily pauses of all operations to allow any civilians left in combat areas to evacuate.

The same article has so much more about Israels humanitarian way of fighting a still-brutal war. But the world doesnt care. Prey to propaganda, ideology and, in Bidens case, the need to win Michigan and Wisconsin, nothing Israel can do other than surrender to Hamas is good enough.

And I say surrender because a unilateral ceasefire without even getting hostages back allows Hamas, with Irans help, to regroup and come back stronger. This will happen even as the West, including America, refuses to honor Israels need to purchase ammunition and weapons, whether by slow-walking sales or refusing them entirely. (Ukraine, by the way, is not buying American weapons. We just hand them over.)

So, given the fact that Israel is damned if she does and damned if she doesnt, why does she harm her military advantage and put her troops in danger? Because I cannot believe that Israel is stupid enough to sacrifice herself for a world that despises her, Ive got a different theory: I believe that Israels extraordinary humanitarian approach to warfare is because the Jews know that they answer to something higher than the baseness of world opinion. They are, truly, a Godly nation.
An 8-year-old girl died Saturday, March 23 at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in northwest Houston Courtesy/OnScene.tv

The mother of an 8-year-old girl who drowned in a DoubleTree by Hilton swimming pool on Saturday is seeking more than $1 million in a lawsuit accusing the hotel and its owners of negligence.

Aliyah Jaico, 8, died after being sucked into a 12 to 16 inch gap in the flow system of the hotel's lazy river attraction. According to court documents, hotel management refused to allow Jaico's mother, Jose Daniela Jaico Ahumada, to look at video surveillance footage after her daughter initially went missing until police were present.

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Video footage viewed after police arrived showed the girl going underwater. The pool was drained, and the girl's body was found "wedged in the pipes of the malfunctioning pool equipment." Authorities used cameras to search pipes in the hotel's pool and lazy river to find the body of the child in one of the pipes.

The lawsuit against Unique Crown Hospitality LLC and Hilton Worldwide Holdings LLC accuses the hotel chain of failing to provide a safe place to swim, failing to inspect the area where the drowning occurred, failing to put up barriers so that children would not be pulled into the pool suction equipment.

The companies could not immediately be reached for comment.

An investigation by the Houston Health Department found that the lazy river had gates that opened towards the pool area, a fence that was too short, and a gate with openings that were too wide. The pool was ordered to be closed, and management corrected the violations, according to the Houston Chronicle.

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Right now, we are in the midst of a huge AI race, and big companies are trying their hardest to keep their top employees. Apparently, this is so true that a Google co-founder directly reached out to an employee to keep them from jumping ship. Sergey Brin, one of Googles co-founders, convinced one of Googles employees not to leave via a personal phone call.

Employees leaving companies for different positions is not something new. The fact that AI technology is on the rise only exacerbates this. For example, Mark Zuckerberg has been personally reaching out to several Google employees to get them to join Metas AI team.

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Sergey Brin convinced a Google employee not to leave through a personal phone call

The name of the employee in question remains unreleased. However, based on the information we have, it appears that the employee was a personal friend of Brin. So, this makes it seem less out of the blue. Apparently, the employee considered taking a position at OpenAI. Since OpenAI in Google are at each others throats, its only natural to assume that Google is not a fan of any of its employees crossing the pond over to OpenAI.

Were not quite certain what was mentioned in the phone call, but we do know that the employees salary was raised. So, with the familiar voice of a friend, along with more money in their pocket, it appears that the employee decided to stay at Google.

This is a trend in the tech community where companies are looking to acquire people they think will be able to push their AI ventures forward. Its also bittersweet, as many of the same companies are dropping other employees like flies. We get news that major companies are hiring a handful of AI specialists, but we also hear that theyre laying off thousands of other employees. So, were just going to have to see where this trend leads.
The upcoming Pixel Watch 3 from Google will include a slightly larger battery than its predecessor. The watch was spotted on Dekra and Safety Korea websites, and thus its battery capacity was revealed.

The Pixel Watch 3 will include a larger battery technically

Googles watch was certified with the model number G1QME. Now, we cannot be sure this is the Pixel Watch 3, but it almost certainly is. Based on the provided information, the watch will include a 307mAh battery.

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The Pixel Watch 2 includes a 304mAh battery, so the difference here is almost negligible, to be quite honest. The difference is only 3mAh. As a side note, the first-gen model included a 294mAh unit.

The watch is expected to arrive in two different sizes

Unlike the first and second-gen models, the Pixel Watch 3 is expected to arrive in two different sizes. In addition to a smaller 41mm option, Google is rumored to offer a 45mm version.

Many people have complained that the Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 are simply too small for them. Id agree with that statement, and Im used to considerably larger watches. Well, now well have options, it seems.

The Snapdragon W5 Plus Gen 1 SoC is expected to fuel the Pixel Watch 3

The companys upcoming smartwatch is expected to utilize the Snapdragon W5 Plus Gen 1 processor from Qualcomm. WearOS will come pre-installed, of course, and the battery life should improve further.

The first-gen model had a really poor battery life. The Pixel Watch 2 did improve upon that, but the third-gen model should really bring a notable improvement. We cannot be sure at this point, but it all points in that direction.

Google will once again release a circular smartwatch, even though we still dont know what will it look like. The company is expected to make some changes, just so it doesnt release an identical-looking watch three years in a row. We dont expect major design changes, though.
A trio of fraudsters who defrauded Apple to the tune of $6 million are now in jail. They ran a sophisticated ring involving counterfeiting Apple iPhone and iPad devices. Incidentally, two of the instigators were sentenced last year.

A US Federal Court not only handed out lengthy sentences but also ordered the defendants to forfeit luxury apartments and multiple Apple devices in their possession.

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How was Apple defrauded and tricked into handing out genuine replacements

U.S. District Judge Cynthia Ann Bashant awarded Zhiwei Liao a 51-month sentence for counterfeiting Apple iPhone and iPad devices. His accomplices Zhimin Liao and Zhiting Liao were jailed last year.

All three fraudsters are brothers. They ran an international exchange fraud scheme that relied heavily on Chinese manufacturing.

The Liao brothers, operating from America, imported counterfeit iPhones and iPads from China. These devices werent manufactured by Apples authorized manufacturers. In other words, a few Chinese counterfeiting companies made these duplicate iPhones and iPads.

These devices wouldnt power on. However, they did have unique identification numbers (IMEI and serial numbers) that matched those on real iPhones and iPads.

The fraudsters ensured these numbers belonged to devices that were under warranty. Additionally, they were careful to choose only those identification numbers that belonged to devices sold in the United States and Canada.

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To pull off the scam, the Liao brothers employed hundreds of Apple customers. These mules walked into Apple Stores across the United States and Canada and attempted to exchange counterfeit iPhones and iPads for genuine iPhones and iPads.

As the iPhone and iPad devices wouldnt power on, Apple couldnt verify if they were genuine or not. However, Apple Store employees issued replacements as they had genuine identification numbers.

The fraudsters then shipped the genuine Apple iPhone and iPad devices back to China. Another team then sold these devices, presumably at a premium.

How did Apple spot the iPhone and iPad counterfeiting scam?

The Liao brothers successfully operated their scam for several years. However, the US FBI and the San Diego Police Department discovered and investigated the scam, which resulted in 12 felony convictions. Incidentally, this is not the first time Chinese scammers or Chinese companies have defrauded Apple and other smartphone manufacturers.

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It is not clear how or when Apple caught wind of the scam. However, the investigation agencies, and the US Federal Court, have reportedly ensured the guilty forfeited five residences in San Diego with an estimated value of more than $4.1 million, over $250,000 in cash, and more than 200 Apple products.

While two co-defendants were sentenced to 41 months each back in 2023, the teams leader, Zhiwei Allen Liao, was sentenced to 51 months in prison this week.
TikTok has officially announced a global youth council made up of 15 teenagers who will offer the company insights and advice on issues affecting its youngest users. This initiative first came to light last summer as part of TikToks broader efforts to intensify safety features for its adolescent audience.

TikTok has formed Youth Council in hopes to make the platform safe for youngsters

The youth council has already begun meetings with TikToks top brass, including CEO Shou Chew, highlighting the companys desire to include the perspectives of their young user base in decision-making processes. The establishment of the council coincides with TikToks ongoing efforts to combat legislative challenges, such as proposed bills that could potentially lead to the apps ban in certain regions.

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The creation of a youth council aimed at addressing concerns about youth safety on TikTok. For example, a media literacy campaign is reportedly on the horizon by the Council which intends to fight fake news and pushback AI-generated content.

The council includes teenagers from multiple regions in the US, UK, Brazil, Indonesia, Ireland, Kenya, Mexico, and Morocco who lend their views on regional peculiarities and risks connected with Internet security. Through a collaboration with Praesidio Safeguarding (an online safety organization based in the UK), TikTok plans to fully equip its council members with adequate resources to regulate content.

The Youth Council will help shape the privacy features intended for the younger audience

The youth council will advise on various TikTok features such as the youth portal that has in-app privacy and security resources specially made for younger users. TikTok also adds that young people who are part of the council will receive rewards for participating. It demonstrates the companys desire to encourage meaningful conversations among teenagers who actively watch content on the Chinese platform.

Although it is still uncertain how much power this youth council will have over TikTok policies, its establishment is a sign that the company recognizes how important young consumers are. Given that TikTok is very popular with teens globally, especially in America, the organization acknowledges that they should engage with their demographic to deal with safety concerns and maintain a steady user base.
Vivo announced the worlds lightest book-style foldable smartphone yesterday, and the device could get a global variant. The device in question is the Vivo X Fold 3, and its Pro sibling also arrived during the same event.

Both smartphones were announced in China. Vivo kept its foldable smartphones available in China only, but this generation could spread its wings. It would be about time, as OnePlus, OPPO, HONOR, and more China-based companies already delivered their foldables to markets outside of China.

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The worlds lightest book-style foldable could get a global variant

Why do we think its coming to more markets? Well, Vivo hasnt confirmed anything just yet. We do have two reasons to believe that both smartphones are coming to more markets.

An Industry source confirmed to 91Mobiles that the Vivo X Fold 3 will arrive to India. Furthermore, the Vivo X Fold 3 appeared in a certification listing in Indonesia, where Vivo phones are actually quite popular. Were talking about the SDPPI Indonesia Telecom certification.

Devices in both India and Indonesia do come with global software on them, though it could be slightly adapted to the country the phones are launching in, of course. The point is, Google services do come pre-installed.

It remains to be see what other markets will the phones arrive to

It remains to be seen if Vivo aims to offer these two foldable smartphones in other markets, but at least well have global variants this time around. If you really end up wanting one, you can always import it.

The Vivo X Fold 3 Pro is the more powerful of the two phones. It comes with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. The Vivo X Fold 3 is fueled by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, but its both thinner and lighter than its sibling.

The VIvo X Fold 3 is lighter than the HONOR Magic V2, quite a bit, and the Magic V2 held the crown thus far. It is thinner than the Magic V2 when unfolded, but also 0.1mm thicker when folded, which is negligible. Vivo really pushed the ante with the Vivo X Fold 3.
Israel Lee Lopez has been sentenced to 12 years in prison on a charge of failure to stop and render aid causing death in the hit-and-run crash that killed Yvonne Arias on April 2, 2020. Courtesy, Bexar County Sheriff's Office

A San Antonio man drew 12 years in prison for fleeing the scene after fatally striking a pedestrian in 2020. He had told authorities he thought he had hit a dog.

State District Judge Christine Del Prado sentenced Israel Lee Lopez, 35, for running from the accident that killed Yvonne Arias, 26, on April 2, 2020.

As part of an agreement reached Feb. 5 between defense attorneys and prosecutors, Lopez pleaded no contest to one count of failure to stop and render aid causing death. In exchange, the state waived a repeater enhancement.

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Lopez had applied for probation, according to court records. Had he gone to trial, he could have faced up to 20 years in prison if convicted of the second-degree felony.

An affidavit supporting his arrest stated that Arias was walking around 11 p.m., near the 3200 block of Roosevelt Avenue on the South Side when a Dodge pickup hit her and then drove off.

Arias was taken to a hospital where she later died. Responding San Antonio police recovered Ariass shoes, a pack of cigarettes that had not been opened and a Dodge hood ornament.

Bystanders told authorities they saw the pickup sliding out of control as it came toward them and heard the impact. One witness said he heard the woman scream as he sat on his porch.

The affidavit stated that Lopezs mother called police the day after the incident to tell them her son was responsible for hitting someone on Roosevelt the night before, and had seen on the news that the woman had died.

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Investigators went to look at the pickup and found hair in the grill, which along with the hood of the vehicle had sustained significant damage. The affidavit stated that Lopez attempted to conceal the front of the pickup by pulling it into bushes near the home. Lopez, then 31, was not home but turned himself in five days later.

In a police interview, Lopez said he was driving through a green light when he hit what he thought was a dog. He told authorities that he had lost his glasses and couldnt see, got scared and drove away.

The affidavit stated that Lopez insisted that he hit a dog, and asked them: Why would someone walk out when they saw my headlights?

It is unclear when Lopez, now 35, would become eligible for parole.
North Koreas state TV channel has censored a BBC gardening show by blurring presenter Alan Titchmarshs jeans.

Korean Central Television (KCTV) aired a 2010 episode of Alan Titchmarshs Garden Secrets, where footage of the British broadcaster was obscured from the waist down as he knelt in a garden bed tending to plants.

Jeans are seen as a symbol of Western imperialism and are banned under the North Korean regime.

Alan Titchmarsh said it had given him a bit of street cred (Rebecca Speare-Cole/PA)

Titchmarsh told the BBC that the news had given him a bit of street cred.

Its taken me to reach the age of 74 to be regarded in the same sort of breath as Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, Rod Stewart.

You know, wearing trousers that are generally considered by those of us of a sensitive disposition to be rather too tight.

He said that his jeans were not too tight but were not acceptable in North Korea.

He added: Ive never seen myself as a dangerous subversive imperialist. Im generally regarded as rather cosy and pretty harmless, so actually, its given me a bit of street cred, really, hasnt it?

Jeans have been prohibited since the 1990s when leader Kim Jong-il declared them to be a symbol of Western, and specifically US, imperialism, which had no place in a socialist state, according to Seoul-based outlet NK News.
Astronomers have released an image of strong magnetic fields spiralling at the edge of the Milky Ways central black hole.

The new image from the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) collaboration shows the organised magnetic fields at the edge of the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*).

Researchers say this new view of the monster lurking at the heart of the Milky Way galaxy reveals a structure strikingly similar to that of the black hole at the middle of the M87 galaxy.

The findings suggest that strong magnetic fields may be common to all black holes.

University College Londons Dr Ziri Younsi, a co-author on the papers, and a member of the EHT collaboration, said: It is very exciting to see the first polarised images of the black hole in the heart of our galaxy.

These observations reveal much more information about the magnetic fields surrounding the black hole, and will improve our ability to model accreting black holes in the future.

It is remarkable that the polarisation structure of Sgr A* is so similar to that of the M87 black hole, which we know possesses a prodigious relativistic jet.

This exciting new study hints at the possibility of a jet hiding near the event horizon of Sgr A*.

Seen in polarised light for the first time, the image shows orange swirls around the black hole, said to resemble the Eye of Sauron from the film adaption of JRR Tolkiens Lord Of The Rings.

Light is an oscillating, or moving electromagnetic wave that allows us to see objects, while polarised light is light in which the electric and magnetic fields each vibrate in a single plane.

Although it surrounds us, human eyes cannot tell it apart from normal light.

Around the black holes, particles whirling around magnetic field lines give off a polarisation pattern, allowing astronomers to see what is happening in black hole regions in increasing detail and map their magnetic field lines.

The EHT collaboration involves more than 300 researchers from Africa, Asia, Europe, and North and South America.

The international collaboration is working to capture the most detailed black hole images ever obtained by creating a virtual Earth-sized telescope.

To observe Sgr A*, the collaboration linked eight telescopes around the world to create a virtual Earth-sized telescope, the EHT.

The Atacama Large Millimetre/submillimetre Array (ALMA), in which the European Southern Observatory (ESO )is a partner, and the ESO-hosted Atacama Pathfinder Experiment (APEX), both in northern Chile, were part of the network that made the observations, conducted in 2017.

The findings are published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.
Artificial intelligence, online politics, and enslavement are among the themes explored in the six books shortlisted for the inaugural Womens Prize for Non-Fiction.

The new sister award to the Womens Prize for Fiction, now in its 29th year, aims to celebrate excellence, originality and accessibility in narrative non-fiction.

Laura Cumming, Noreen Masud and Madhumita Murgia are among the three British writers on the list, alongside Canadian author Naomi Klein, American Tiya Miles and Jamaican Safiya Sinclair.

Thunderclap by Laura Cumming (Womens Prize For Non-Fiction/PA)

Journalist and art critic Cumming has been nominated for her book Thunderclap: A Memoir Of Art And Life And Sudden Death, which explores the relationship between art and life while reflecting on her story and that of her late Scottish painter father, and the great artists of the Dutch Golden Age.

Masud, an English lecturer at Bristol University, has been shortlisted for her memoir A Flat Place.

The book, which is her first written for a non-academic readership, follows her journey across Britains flatlands, from Orford Ness to Orkney, as she weaves her experiences of the natural world with poetry, recollections of her own early life and thoughts on her British-Pakistani heritage.

Murgia, who is the first artificial intelligence (AI) editor of the Financial Times, has been nominated for Code Dependent: Living In The Shadow Of AI.

Her work delves into the complexities of AI and automated decision-making and the effect powerful technologies can have on individuals, communities and society at large.

Code Dependent by Madhumita Murgia (Womens Prize For Non-Fiction/PA)

Award-winning author Kleins shortlisted work, Doppelganger: A Trip Into the Mirror World, charts her exploration of the online world of conspiracy theories, anti-vaxxers and demagogue hucksters after she discovered that a woman who shares her first name, but has radically different views, was getting mistaken for her.

Harvard historian Miles has been shortlisted for her book All That She Carried: The Journey Of Ashleys Sack, A Black Family Keepsake.

It tells the story of an embroidered sack which originally belonged to an enslaved woman through the use of archival records, objects, art and the environment.

Miles has previously written three prize-winning works on the history of early American race relations and is a professor of history at Harvard University.

Rounding off the shortlist is poet Sinclair, who has been selected for her memoir about her childhood in Jamaica, titled How To Say Babylon.

It recounts the tyrannical reign of her father, described as a volatile reggae musician, and how she escaped his strict Rastafari ideals.

It recently won the autobiography category of the National Book Critics Circle Award.

How To Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair (Womens Prize For Non-Fiction/PA)

The chairwoman of the Womens Prize for Non-Fiction judges, Professor Suzannah Lipscomb, said: Our magnificent shortlist is made up of six powerful, impressive books that are characterised by the brilliance and beauty of their writing and which each offer a unique, original perspective.

The readers of these books will never see the world  be it through art, history, landscape, politics, religion or technology  the same again.

Lipscomb is joined on the judging panel by fair fashion campaigner Venetia La Manna, academic and author Professor Nicola Rollock, biographer and journalist Anne Sebba, and 2018 winner of the Womens Prize for Fiction Kamila Shamsie.

The Womens Prize for Non-Fiction is awarded to a work of narrative non-fiction written in English by a woman and published in the UK.

The 2024 winner will be crowned at the Womens Prize Trusts summer party in central London on Thursday June 13.

She will receive a 30,000 prize and a limited-edition artwork known as The Charlotte, both donated by the Charlotte Aitken Trust.
SAPD SWAT team runs an obstacle course in a San Antonio competition in 2021. Last month, eight members of the SAPD SWAT team competed in an international competition in Dubai. Josie Norris /Staff photographer

Eight members of the San Antonio Police Departments SWAT team traveled to Dubai last month to compete against police tactical units from around the world  including a Russian group accused of war crimes in Ukraine.

San Antonios participation in the international games  which awarded cash prizes  raised red flags for area human rights and police reform experts and activists.

A man recoils Wednesday, May 12, 2021, near South New Braunfels and Ada Lane after what appeared to be a "flash-bang" grenade thrown by San Antonio police department SWAT team detonated next to him. Police had been in a stand-off with the man since Tuesday night. The man had said he was suicidal, according to police. William Luther Sheriff's Department SWAT officers move in to apprehend a subject held up in the backyard of a home in the 9500 block of Bending Crest on Feb. 9, 2020. Tom Reel/Staff photographer

The New York Police Department was the only other U.S. team at the UAE SWAT Challenge, hosted by the Dubai Police. Seventy-three teams from 41 countries participated in the nearly weeklong long event in which they ran obstacle courses and tested their handling of firearms in five separate challenges.

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One of the best-performing teams included men from the Chechen Akhmat Kadyrov special police regiment, which has played a major role in Russias invasion of Ukraine and is suspected of committing war crimes, according to the Guardian newspaper. The controversial Almaz anti-terrorism unit from Belarus, which was accused of violently suppressing anti-government protests in 2020 and 2021, also competed.

The event website touts the annual challenge as a chance to showcase skills and foster an exchange of tactical techniques and skills among international SWAT teams.

But Sgt. Washington Moscoso, an SAPD spokesman, said the departments SWAT officers did not attend the event to share tactics or strategies.

The SAPD team was invited to participate in the international event in the spirit of competition with other law enforcement entities, not unlike the Olympics, he said in an email.

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Events, such as an obstacle course, do not translate into real-world tactical operations, he said.

This was San Antonios first time competing in the Dubai event. Moscoso said the department had been invited to participate.

Andrei Soldatov, a Russian security services expert, told the UKs Guardian that Russian and U.S. police and anti-terrorism units sometimes exchange information  but rarely compete for money.

Ananda Tomas, executive director of the Act 4 SA police reform organization, said she was appalled that SAPDs SWAT team participated in the event. She said that some of the law enforcement agencies that competed in Dubai  from the Philippines, China and Russia  have been known to engage in extrajudicial killings, war crimes and repression of speech.

Its not just a friendly competition  theyre exchanging tactics, tactics that are literally war crimes, and bringing that back to America and our police departments here, she said.

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Texas Public Radio first reported on the response to local SWAT members' participation in the Dubai event.

Ariel Dulitzky, director of the Human Rights Clinic at the University of Texas at Austins law school, also had concerns about U.S. involvement in the competition.

Participating in an event where you will exchange and receive tactics from those police units with such bad human rights records is concerning because you are providing some type of legitimacy to those tactics that violate human rights as something that you may learn from, he said.

Dubais police agency paid all of the San Antonio competitors' expenses. SAPD did not immediately provide the total amount that Dubai law enforcement officials covered.

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Second seed Jannik Sinner moved into the last eight of the Miami Open as he produced a strong showing to see off Christopher OConnell.

The Italian came through 6-4 6-3 in windy conditions after weathering early problems. Behind 3-1 and 0-30 in the first set, he regained his composure to take five of the next six games.

Showing greater composure than his Australian opponent, Sinner broke at the first time asking in the second set and closed out the win in one hour 51 minutes.

Carlos Alcaraz hits a volley to Lorenzo Musett (Marta Lavandier/AP)

Sinner, runner-up here in 2021 and 2023  will meet Tomas Machac. The Czech, 23, is looking for a second successive Italian scalp after beating Matteo Arnaldi 6-3 6-3 to earn his first appearance in a Masters 1000 quarter-final.

Another Italian bowed out as 23rd seed Lorenzo Musetti was brushed aside 6-3 6-3 by top seed Carlos Alcaraz, who won 18 points from his 22 visits to the net.

I tried to play my game, play aggressive with my shots, go to the net, drop shots, my style, said the Spaniard. I think I did pretty well, and Im really happy with my performance.

Im feeling great on the court. Im moving great, not injured or thinking about the ankle [injury] anymore. I think this is the best feeling since last summer.

The meteoric rise of Fabian Marozsan  The Hungarian upsets the No. 9 seed De Minaur 6-4 0-6 6-1 to reach the last eight in Miami! @MiamiOpen | #MiamiOpen pic.twitter.com/a0H7b4Uxh9  ATP Tour (@atptour) March 27, 2024

Next up for Alcaraz is 11th seed Grigor Dimitrov, who came from a set down to edge past eighth seed Hubert Hurkacz 3-6 6-3 7-6(3).

Defending champion Daniil Medvedev came through in straight sets against Dominik Koepfer. After needing a tie-break to take a back-and-forth first set 7-6(5), the Medvedev ran up a 6-0 scoreline in a one-sided follow-up.

He goes on to play Nicholas Jarry, after the Chileans 7-6(3) 6-3 success over Casper Rudd.

Unseeded Fabian Marozsan continued his run as he upset ninth seed Alex de Minaur 6-4 0-6 6-1 to earn a meeting with fourth seed Alex Zverev, who eased past Karen Khachanov 6-1 6-4.
A jury has retired to consider verdicts in the trial of a man accused of murdering a police officer by planning the armed robbery in which she was killed.

Piran Ditta Khan is alleged to be the mastermind behind a raid at family-run Universal Express travel agents in November 2005.

Pc Sharon Beshenivsky, 38, was shot on her youngest daughters fourth birthday as she arrived at the robbery on Morley Street, Bradford. She died from her injuries.

Her colleague Pc Teresa Milburn was seriously injured after being shot by the gunman  one of three armed men who had just carried out the robbery and fled the scene with around 5,400 in cash.

Piran Ditta Khan, right, was appearing at Leeds Crown Court (Elizabeth Cook/PA)

Prosecutors claim Khan, 75, was the groups ringleader and played a pivotal role in planning the raid and giving instructions to the others.

They say this makes him guilty of Pc Beshenivskys murder as surely as if he had pulled the trigger himself.

Jurors have heard Khan was in a lookout car eating sandwiches with another of the robbers, Hassan Razzaq, while the raid was being carried out.

Prosecutors say he was the only one of the group who was familiar with Universal Express and had been using the business for years to transfer money to family in Pakistan.

Khan denies knowing that a robbery was going to be committed, or that weapons were going to be taken to Universal Express that day.

He has claimed the motive for the robbery was that the businesss owner, Mohammad Yousaf, owed him 12,000, and that debt collector Razzaq offered to get his money back when the pair met through a business associate.

Jurors at Leeds Crown Court have heard Khan was in a lookout car eating sandwiches while the raid was being carried out (Anna Gowthorpe/PA)

Khan told Leeds Crown Court he thought the men Razzaq sent would simply intimidate the staff or, at most, slap them.

The judge, Mr Justice Hilliard, told jurors the defendant would be guilty of murder if they were sure he intentionally encouraged the primary robbers to take part () and intended serious harm should be caused, if necessary, to carry out the robbery and escape with the proceeds.

He sent the jury out to consider its verdicts at just before 3.30pm on Wednesday.

The court has heard Khan is the last of the seven men involved in the robbery to face trial.

He flew to Pakistan two months after Pc Beshenivskys death and remained there before being arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2020 and extradited to the UK last year, jurors were told.

The other members of the group have been convicted of offences including murder, manslaughter, robbery and firearms offences.

Khan denies murder, two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and two counts of possession of a prohibited weapon.

He has pleaded guilty to robbery, telling his trial this was because the armed men had gone for his money and it was my mistake to tell them.
Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said he is confident the country is in good hands before attending what is likely to be his last Cabinet meeting before he steps down.

A week ago, Mr Varadkar surprised the Irish political system by announcing he was stepping down as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael.

Further and Higher Education Minister Simon Harris was declared Fine Gael leader on Sunday after other heavyweights in the party said they would not run.

When the Irish Parliament returns from the Easter recess on Tuesday April 9, it will vote on whether Mr Harris will become the next, and youngest, Irish premier.

On his way into Cabinet on Wednesday, Mr Harris said he aims to meet with the other coalition party leaders, Tanaiste and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan.

He also said he would look to turbo charge the programme for government.

Ahead of Cabinet, Mr Varadkar was seen greeting Mr Harris in front of Government Buildings.

Speaking to reporters, Mr Varadkar said this would probably be his last Cabinet meeting, and based on a rough count it is his 650th one.

He added it was quite a busy one as ministers tried to get things approved before the changeover.

When it was put to him that people were finding it difficult to accept there was no scandal or disquiet in Fine Gael that led to his resignation, he said: I know people struggle to accept that politicians tell the truth.

Almost all the time we do, or at least what we believe to be the truth. So, the reasons are the ones that I set out, and it is as simple as that.

Mr Harris told reporters there are real areas that he wants to make progress on.

What in the programme for government could be turbocharged, that could be accelerated, that could be delivered quickly for people? And are there new areas that I as party leader want to outline in terms of the vision for Fine Gael?

Asked about the possible reshuffle among Fine Gael ministers, he said: Im not there at all in my head yet.

What I want to do today is endeavour to meet with my fellow party leaders, with the leader of the Fianna Fail party, the Tanaiste, and the leader of the Green Party Minister Ryan.

Simon Harris speaks to the media at Government Buildings, Dublin (Grainne Ni Aodha/PA)

He added: I understand, respectively, why the individual appointments matter, and of course they do. But for me right now, the most important thing is policy, what can we get done for the Irish people, because I think theres a real sense out there that people want delivery.

They want politicians to get back to bread-and-butter issues, roll up our sleeves and get stuck in, and from day one thats what Ill do.

Mr Varadkar said he had no advice for Mr Harris about ministerial appointments, but he did have advice for party members.

He said: Rather than giving Simon Harris advice, Id just ask other people in the parliamentary party to give him a fair go.

There are lots of people who are going to be disappointed and thats just the nature of these things.

Dont take it personally. Buckle down, work hard, and as I probably helped to demonstrate in the past couple of weeks, opportunities arise in politics all the time.

Asked if he felt relief going into his last Cabinet meeting, Mr Varadkar said its too early to say.

If there is one thing it is confidence, confidence that theres a really good team there and they will continue the work that Ive been part of for the past 13 years. The country is in good hands.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said his constituency colleague Mr Harris will be Wicklows first taoiseach.

Ive seen the hard work, Ive seen the energy he brings to his role as minister and Ive no doubt hes going to do the same in terms of his role as taoiseach.
Customer support workers are among those at risk in the first wave of AI adoption. The second wave will have a much bigger impact. Photograph: Xinhua/REX/Shutterstock

Almost 8 million UK jobs could be lost to artificial intelligence in a jobs apocalypse, according to a report warning that women, younger workers and those on lower wages are at most risk from automation.

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) said that entry level, part-time and administrative jobs were most exposed to being replaced by AI under a worst-case scenario for the rollout of new technologies in the next three to five years.

The thinktank warned that the UK was facing a sliding doors moment as growing numbers of companies adopt generative AI technologies  which can read and create text, data and software code  to automate everyday workplace tasks.

The report said this first wave of AI adoption was already putting jobs at risk as growing numbers of companies introduce the technology. However, a second wave could lead to the automation of more jobs amid rapid advances in AI.

Analysing 22,000 tasks in the economy covering every type of job, the IPPR said 11% of tasks currently done by workers were at risk. This could, though, increase to 59% of tasks in the second wave as technologies develop to handle increasingly complex processes.

It said routine cognitive tasks  including database management, scheduling and stocktaking  were already at risk, with potential to displace entry level and part-time jobs in secretarial work, administration and customer services.

However, the second wave of AI adoption could impact non-routine tasks involving the creation of databases, copywriting and graphic design, which would affect increasingly higher earning jobs.

Women would be significantly more affected, as they are more likely to work in the most exposed occupations, such as secretarial and administrative occupations, the IPPR said.

In the worst-case scenario for the second wave of AI, 7.9m jobs could be displaced, the report said, with any gains for the economy from productivity improvements cancelled out with zero growth in GDP within three to five years.

In a best-case scenario for full augmentation of the workforce with generative AI, no jobs would be lost, while the size of the economy could be increased by 4%, or about 92bn a year.

Sounding the alarm over the impact on workers, the left-of-centre thinktank said government action could prevent a jobs apocalypse, and help to harness the power of AI to boost economic growth and raise living standards.

Carsten Jung, senior economist at IPPR, said: Already existing generative AI could lead to big labour market disruption or it could hugely boost economic growth. Either way, it is set to be a gamechanger for millions of us.

But technology isnt destiny and a jobs apocalypse is not inevitable  government, employers and unions have the opportunity to make crucial design decisions now that ensure we manage this new technology well. If they dont act soon, it may be too late.
The US transportation secretary, Pete Buttigieg, has warned of major and protracted impact to supply chains following the closure of the Port of Baltimore for the forseeable future after Tuesdays catastrophic bridge collapse, though some experts said the impact was likely to be targeted to particular regions and industries.

Spanning more than 2km and with four lanes of traffic, the Francis Scott Key Bridge  a vital artery in Baltimores industrial heartland  took nine years to plan and almost five to build, but came down in under a minute after being struck by a cargo ship in the early hours of Tuesday.

At least six people are presumed dead after the bridge collapsed into the Patapsco River, and the state of Maryland has declared a state of emergency.

The Maryland governor, Wes Moore, said the disaster was heartbreaking. The missing  all members of a construction crew filling potholes on the bridge  were described as hard-working, humble men and are reported to have been from Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Mexico.

The USs top safety regulator, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Osha), has described construction, where about half of construction workers are Hispanic, as a high hazard industry.

In addition to the devastating impact on the families of those who lost their lives, there are questions about the possible effects on a global economy still reeling from Covid shocks and the Red Sea crisis, which have disrupted supply chains .

On Tuesday, Joe Biden called the bridge one of the most important elements supporting the US north-easts economy. Its collapse in effect shut off access to one of the busiest and most important ports in the country.

Speaking to MSNBC on Wednesday, Buttigieg said that even though there were other ports on the east coast, there is no substitute for the Port of Baltimore being up and running.

Related: Baltimore bridge was up to code  but rules predate age of supersized ships

The immediate consequences are perhaps the most clear: all the ships in Baltimore port are trapped, said Salvatore Mercogliano, an associate professor of history at Campbell University and host of the What Is Going on With Shipping? YouTube channel.

That mean that vessels that are in there will have to wait for the bridge to be cleared and obviously thats going to be a long prospect, he said, adding that a number of vessels were also waiting to access the port.

Baltimore is the ninth busiest port in the US, and the busiest for car shipments, handling at least 750,000 vehicles in 2023, according to data from the Maryland Port Administration. Motor vehicles and parts accounted for 42% of all Baltimore port imports.

General Motors (GM) and Ford have announced they will reroute affected shipments but Buttigieg said on Tuesday there was no question the impact would be major.

The port handled foreign cargo worth $80bn in 2023, according to the governor, meaning there will be millions of dollars in lost trade and taxes for every day that shipping vessels are blocked from accessing it.

The biggest issue, according to Mercogliano, will be the export of coal. In 2023, Baltimore was the second busiest US port for coal exports, with India the single biggest importer of that coal.

Most of the coal from Baltimore makes its way to India for electricity generation, Ernie Thrasher, the CEO of the coal trading firm Xcoal Energy & Resources, told Bloomberg.

The big question is the impact on India more than any global impact, Thrasher said.

Some of that coal will be rerouted, but complicated logistics will limit how much other ports can take.

Mercogliano said: Baltimore is a major port for the export of coal, and its not like you can move the coal to another facility because you need specialised facilities for that  and those that do exist are largely at capacity. Shutting down the port of Baltimore is going to have a major impact on the transportation of energy out of the United States.

Biden has said the federal government would pay for the entire reconstruction of the bridge and that he expects Congress to fund relief efforts.

Meanwhile, treasury secretary Janet Yellen said a federal supply task force was meeting on Wednesday to assess the ports closure, adding that the Biden administration will do everything as quickly as we possibly can to resume the ports operations.

Beyond port operations, the community more broadly is hugely reliant on the bridge for its day-to-day functioning. Almost 12m vehicles cross the bridge every year.

Distribution warehouses owned by Amazon and FedEx are located at the port, and experts say it is likely some operations will be disrupted. An Amazon spokesperson told Newsweek that the company was assessing the immediate and future impacts of the accident.

Mary Kane, the president and CEO of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, said: The economic impact thats going to be felt by Baltimore and the state of Maryland is incomprehensible.

Reuters and the Associated Press contributed reporting
Joe Biden pledged to move heaven and earth to rebuild Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge as he said the federal government would foot the bill for repairing it.

Six people are missing presumed dead after a Singapore-flagged cargo ship destroyed the bridge in the early hours of Tuesday morning, in what the US President said was a terrible accident.

The search for survivors was suspended on Tuesday at about 7.30pm local time (11.30pm UK). The six people who were unaccounted for after believed to be dead, a Coast Guard official said on Tuesday night.

At this point, we do not believe we are going to find any of these individuals still alive, Rear Adm Shannon Gilreath said at a press conference.

Col Roland Butler of the Maryland State Police said divers would return to the water at 6am on Wednesday to try to recover the bodies.

We do not know where they are, Col Butler said, but we intend to give it our best effort to help these families find closure.

A senior executive of the company that employed the construction workers also said the employees are believed to be dead.

Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, said they are believed to have died given the waters depth and the amount of time that has passed since the crash.

Mr Biden said on Tuesday that he had directed my team to move heaven and earth to reopen the port and to reopen the bridge as soon as humanly possible.

He added: Were going to spend all the federal resources they need as we respond to this emergency. I mean all the federal resources. And were going to rebuild that port together.

07:03 PM GMT

Thats all for today

Thanks for following our coverage of the collapse of Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge. This live blog is now closed.

06:49 PM GMT

How the Dali container ship crashed into Baltimore bridge

A harbour bridge in Baltimore has collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship, sending up to 20 people into the water.

Emergency services, including specialist divers, are trying to rescue victims from the freezing Patapsco River following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

James Wallace, the Baltimore fire chief, said rescue workers were looking for at least seven people.

At a media briefing in Baltimore at 6.30am local time on Tuesday, police said workers and pedestrians had been on the bridge at the time of the crash.

Read the full story from Raoul Simons here.

06:30 PM GMT

Pictured: Francis Scott Key Bridge submerged in river

A close up view captured immediately after the Dali cargo vessel crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge - Baltimore Fire Rescue/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock

06:27 PM GMT

My son got over the Baltimore bridge three minutes before it collapsed

The 22-strong crew of the Dali container ship first realised something was horribly wrong at 1.24am on Tuesday morning when they lost power while sailing along the Patapsco River.

The vessel was just 30 minutes into a 27-day journey from Baltimore to Sri Lanka, carrying cargo for the shipping giant Maersk and sailing under the Singapore flag.

But as it approached the Francis Scott Key Bridge, the lights went out. The crew, helmed by two local pilots trained to traverse the bay, contacted the coastguard immediately.

Read the full story here from Tony Diver, our US Editor.

06:00 PM GMT

Ship previously crashed in Antwerp in 2016

The ship that crashed into Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday morning was previously detained in Antwerp after a collision.

Dali, a Singapore-flagged container ship, was leaving the Belgian port in 2016 when its bow swung around, causing its stern to scrape along the quay.

Nobody was injured in the incident and the vessel did not leak any fuel, but it was nevertheless detained by the authorities, according to the maritime incident archive Shipwrecklog.

05:22 PM GMT

Pictured: Patapsco River strewn with debris after crash

Cargo ship Dali is seen after running into and collapsing the Francis Scott Key Bridge - Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images

05:18 PM GMT

Ship mayday alert saved lives after power failure

A mayday alert issued by the crew of the cargo ship shortly before it crashed into Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge saved lives, Maryland Governor Wes Moore said.

Mr Moore also paid tribute to the officials who rushed to close the bridge to traffic before the 112,000-ton vessel, which suffered a power failure, plunged into the structure early on Tuesday morning.

Six construction workers who were repairing potholes on the bridge are unaccounted for. Authorities have detected several vehicles, including a cement lorry, on the bottom of the Patapsco River.

Im thankful for the folks who, once the warning came up... that there was a mayday, who literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, these people are heroes -- they saved lives, Mr Moore said.

ABC News, citing US intelligence, reported earlier today the ships crew alerted Maryland officials when they lost propulsion soon after leaving port, warning they could collide with the bridge.

04:57 PM GMT

Were with you as long as it takes

Joe Biden continued: To the people of Baltimore. I want to say were with, were going to stay with you as long as it takes.

Like the Governor [Wes Moore] said, youre Maryland tough, youre Baltimore strong, and were going to get through this together. And I promise were not leaving.

Heres whats happening now. Search and rescue operations are our top priority.

The Dali cargo vessel, which crashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge and caused it to collapse - REUTERS/Julia Nikhinson

Ship traffic in the port of Baltimore has been suspended until further notice and well need to clear that channel before the ship traffic can resume.

The US President said the federal government would pay for the cost of rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

04:52 PM GMT

Biden: We will move heaven and earth to reopen bridge

Joe Biden pledged to move heaven and earth to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

He continued: Were going get it up and running again as soon as possible --15,000 jobs depend on that port.

And were going do everything we can to protect those jobs, and help those workers.

04:49 PM GMT

Biden: Eight people unaccounted for

Joe Biden said: Officials at the scene estimate eight people were unaccounted for... that number might change, two have been rescued, one without injury, one in critical condition.

And the search and rescue operations continues for all those remaining as we speak.

He pledged to rebuild that port together using federal resources and downplayed any suggestion that the incident was intentional, calling it a terrible accident.

04:47 PM GMT

Joe Biden speaks

Joe Biden is now addressing the Baltimore bridge collapse at a press conference.

04:34 PM GMT

Listen: Baltimore residents son crossed bridge with minutes to spare

04:08 PM GMT

Ship suffered power failure before bridge crash

04:03 PM GMT

Biden to address Baltimore bridge collapse

US media reports that Joe Biden is expected to speak about the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse soon. Keep following the live blog for all the updates as they come in.

This morning, I convened senior members of my team for a briefing on the collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge.



I've directed my Administration to ensure every federal resource is available to assist search and rescue efforts and response to this terrible incident. pic.twitter.com/quqe7jogwm  President Biden (@POTUS) March 26, 2024

03:48 PM GMT

Maryland governor praying for construction workers

Six people are unaccounted for after Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early on Tuesday morning, according to city officials.

A group of construction workers were repairing potholes on the bridge when Dali, a Singapore-flagged container ship, crashed into it, causing the structure to crumple into the Patapsco River.

Paul Wiedefeld, the Maryland transportation secretary, told a press conference that two of the individuals have been rescued by emergency services. One of them is in a very serious condition and has been taken to hospital, while the other refused medical care.

Dive teams have been deployed and the coast guard is searching for survivors of the incident. Authorities say they have detected vehicles underwater using sonar.

Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, said he was praying for the construction workers who were on the Key Bridge and for everyone who has been touched by this tragedy.

03:11 PM GMT

Pictured: Bridge pillar slices through ships hull during crash

The Francis Scott Key Bridge rests partially collapsed after a cargo ship ran into it in Baltimore - JIM LO SCALZO/Shutterstock

02:36 PM GMT

Six construction workers missing as authorities hunt for survivors

02:10 PM GMT

Ship alerted authorities about power issue

The crew of the ship that crashed into the Baltimore bridge notified authorities they had a power issue after leaving port, Wes Moore, the Maryland governor, said.

At another point in the press conference, he clarified that the crew had issued a mayday before the collision.

Im thankful for the folks who, once the warning came up... that there was a mayday, who literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, these people are heroes -- they saved lives, he said.

02:06 PM GMT

Six people missing as search continues

Six construction workers who were on the bridge are unaccounted for, city officials told a press conference. Two individuals, who were among the group, have been rescued and one has been taken to hospital.

Our exclusive focus is on saving lives, Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, added.

Rescue personnel gather on the shore of the Patapsco River after a container ship ran into the Francis Scott Key Bridge - JIM LO SCALZO/Shutterstock

02:01 PM GMT

Workers were repairing potholes when bridge collapsed

The workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed were repairing potholes rather than dealing with a structural issue, city officials told a press conference.

01:58 PM GMT

No credible evidence of terrorist attack

Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, told a press conference that a rescue operation is ongoing and that he will update the public when they have more news.

To the people of Baltimore... and I recognise that many of us are hurting right now, I recognise that many of us are scared right now, he said.

We are still investigating what happened but we are quickly gathering details... We havent seen any credible evidence of a terrorist attack.

He added that he was praying for the construction workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed, and promised: Maryland, we will get through this.

01:44 PM GMT

All crew members of ship accounted for

All crew members from the container ship have been accounted for and there are no reports of any injuries, according to its management company.

Synergy Group also said the incident had not caused any pollution, after city authorities reported there had been odours of diesel fuel and refused to rule out an oil leak.

01:34 PM GMT

Pictures: Cargo ship smashes into bridge pillar

The collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge after a collision with cargo ship Dali, in Baltimore - Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu

A view of the Dali cargo vessel that crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge - BALTIMORE CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT RESCUE COMPANY via REUTERS

01:29 PM GMT

Expert: No obvious structural deficiencies in bridge

The Francis Scott Key Bridge would never have been designed to withstand a large cargo vessel crashing into it, a structural engineering expert said, adding that it did not show any obvious structural deficiencies.

The video doesnt show any obvious structural deficiencies with the bridge, but it will not have been designed to survive a head-on collision with such a large vessel, Dr Andrew Barr, of the University of Sheffield, said.

Bridges in shipping lanes are sometimes designed with strong, stout piers, or additional protective structures around the piers to prevent ships from coming into contact with the bridge structure.

It doesnt appear that the Key Bridge had either of these features, although it is also very likely that the size and design of the vessels passing under the bridge has changed considerably since it was completed in 1977.

01:17 PM GMT

Watch: Bridge collapse is an unthinkable tragedy

01:16 PM GMT

Dive teams sent out to search wreckage

Authorities have sent out dive teams to search the wreckage for survivors, Johnny Olszewski, the Baltimore county executive, said.

With the sun coming up, were now finally able to go in and begin dive operations, he told CNN. Unfortunately, we werent able to do that before.

01:06 PM GMT

Baltimore bridge lies in ruins after cargo ship crashes into main pier

12:57 PM GMT

No indications this was intentional, says Homeland Security head

Alejandro Mayorkas, the secretary of Homeland Security, said there are no indications that this was an intentional act and that he was assessing the impacts to the Port of Baltimore.

Our thoughts are with the families of the missing and injured, he added.

12:51 PM GMT

Vehicles detected under water as two rescued from wreckage

Vehicles have been detected under water after a bridge collapsed in Baltimore, emergency services said, with rescuers searching for at least seven people.

Up to 20 people are thought to be in the river after the bridge was struck by a cargo ship in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

James Wallace, the Baltimore Fire Chief, signalled that number was likely to increase as he revealed that they had rescued one person in a very serious condition.

He told a press conference: We may be looking for upwards of seven individuals - thats the latest information we have.

However, what I will say is, is the information that Im giving you right now is as of right now... this is a very large incident, it involves a very large footprint.

Multiple agencies are operating, therefore information is subject to change as we get more intel and as our crews work the morning.

Brandon Scott, the Baltimore mayor, called the event an unthinkable tragedy and said he was praying for rescuers and victims.

12:47 PM GMT

Man escapes bridge disaster with three minutes to spare

Jen Woof, a Baltimore resident, said her son crossed the Key Bridge just three minutes before it collapsed on Monday night, and woke her to tell her about the disaster.

He got over the bridge just three minutes before the bridge collapsed, she told The Telegraph.

He was actually almost to our house when his girlfriend started texting him to ask if he was okay. He thought she was texting because they were arguing, and she said the bridge had collapsed.

He came into my house frantically panicking and yelling for me, and showing me a video of his friends that they took down here at Fort Armistead of the bridge collapse.

12:42 PM GMT

Pictured: Close-up of cargo ship as it ploughs into Baltimore bridge

The container ship "Dali" crashes into the Francis Scott Key Bridge

12:38 PM GMT

Crew lost control of container ship before bridge crash

The container ship Dali, which crashed into the Baltimore Key Bridge in the early hours of Tuesday morning, lost propulsion as it was leaving port, ABC News reports.

It cites an unclassified US intelligence report stating that the vessel warned Maryland officials they had lost control after leaving port and that a collision was possible.

The vessel notified MD Department of Transportation [MDOT] that they had lost control of the vessel and a collision with the bridge was possible, it said. The vessel struck the bridge causing a complete collapse.

12:18 PM GMT

Investigators will examine why ship hit main pier

A structural engineering expert believes an investigation will seek to establish why the cargo ship hit the bridges critical main pier when there were no other vessels around.

Dr Marina Bock, of Aston University, said: This type of bridge is not designed to redistribute loads in the event of a main pier collapsing and therefore videos show there is a progressive collapse of the bridge.

Maybe if the vessel had hit a small section of the suspended deck the bridge would have been able to survive the collision but not a main pier.

I am assuming the first line of investigation will be to understand why the vessel could not avoid the pier when there were no other vessels around.

12:14 PM GMT

No evidence of nefarious intent, White House says

The White House said there is no evidence of nefarious intent after a cargo ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

Joe Biden, the US president, has been briefed on the rescue operation and will receive updates throughout the day.

12:06 PM GMT

Builders on Baltimore Key Bridge when it collapsed

People were working on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when it was destroyed early this morning, the Maryland state transportation secretary said.

We know there were individuals on the bridge at the time of the collapse, working on the bridge, contractors for us, Paul Wiedefeld told a news conference.

They were basically doing some concrete deck repair, he added. The transport authority is speaking to those who were believed to be on the bridge at the time of its collapse.

12:02 PM GMT

Maryland governor arrives at the scene

Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, has just arrived at the scene of the bridge. His car was spotted travelling through the police checkpoint on the south side of the Patapsco River.

12:00 PM GMT

Baltimore bridge in ruins after cargo ship collision

11:54 AM GMT

Odds are not looking good say local sources

Hours after cars plunged into the freezing water, the odds are not looking good for the victims of the Key Bridge tragedy, a senior figure involved in the recovery operation told The Telegraph.

Its a 50ft shipping channel, so the water is deep, and theres a tide, the source said, adding that the authorities had not been able to deploy divers until the sun came up.

The emergency services are expecting to pivot the search and rescue operation in the Patapsco River to a recovery effort to bring up the bodies of those who have died.

The sailors on the container ship, including a local pilot deployed to see it through the bridge this morning, remain on board.

11:53 AM GMT

Area in lockdown as first responders hunt for survivors

Helicopters buzz overhead and a small group of local news reporters have gathered close to the bank of the Patapsco River, where the Key Bridge collapsed this morning.

Police have closed all access roads to the area around the bridge to allow the emergency services to continue the search and rescue operation to pull people from the water.

One officer at the scene said a media area may be established nearer to the bridge, but for now the area is on lockdown.

A key consideration for the authorities is the tide, which threatens to disrupt the operation by moving the debris from the site of the bridge collapse.

A coastal flood warning has been issued for Anne Arundel County this morning, which covers the land on the south side of the Key Bridge.

11:50 AM GMT

Bridge collapse like something out of an action movie

Brandon Scott has said footage of a cargo ship colliding with the bridge was like something out of an action movie but has put pressure on broadcasters not to show it.

It was something out of an action movie, something you never think you would see and being right now, looking at it, its even more surreal, he told CNN.

It just makes you think about, again, those families, those individuals that were on that bridge, those folks that were even on that vessel even more.

Im going to be the first to ask that CNN and everyone else stops showing the video. No one needs to see a possibility of their family member being severely injured... over and over and over again because its just traumatising our community.

11:44 AM GMT

There are more people we have to find

Brandon Scott, the mayor of Baltimore, has said there are many more people that need to be rescued find after two people were pulled out of the water this morning.

One victim refused care and the other one is in a very serious condition... and we are praying for that individual to hopefully come out on the other side, he told CNN.

We are grateful that we were able to rescue them but there are many more that we have to find.

11:29 AM GMT

Pictures: Cargo ship collides with Francis Scott Key Bridge

Baltimore bridge collapse is a 'mass casualty event'

The Francis Scott Key Bridge lies in ruins after a cargo ship crashed into it

The Dali container vessel strikes the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US - Al Drago/Bloomberg

11:21 AM GMT

Bridge fenders unable to prevent disaster

In 1980 a freight ship struck the support structure of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge over Tampa Bay in Florida, killing thirty-five people in the process.

When the bridge was rebuilt they included very large vessel impact devices included, Ian Firth, a former president of the Institution of Structural Engineers, said.

Since that time it has been fairly normal to put in what we call dolphins, which are basically fenders that are designed so that the ship hits them and not the bridge.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge appears to have had some fenders built onto it, but these were unable to prevent the disaster.

11:19 AM GMT

Baltimore bridge collapsed because of outdated design

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed because its design is out of date, according to an experienced structural engineer .

Such accidents are thankfully very rare, Ian Firth told the Telegraph.

Bridges built before 1980 are vulnerable to such accidents as they lack robust fenders that can ward off boats that veer off course.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was built in the early 1970s, before a tragedy in Florida caused bridge builders to buttress bridges against such collisions.

Nowadays we understand the risks much better than we once did, Mr Firth said.

11:16 AM GMT

Sun comes up on unspeakable tragedy

Its almost 7am here in Baltimore, and residents are waking to the news of the disaster that plunged up to 15 cars into the water this morning.

James Wallace, the Baltimore Fire Chief, said just now that the light will enable his search and rescue operation to deploy more people and equipment, and that teams of divers may be able to see victims that were missed in the first sweep this morning.

Another major consideration is whether the ship that struck the bridge this morning is leaking fuel into the water. In the dark, it is difficult to tell. Any any diesel on the water will make this operation even more difficult.

For now, the authorities are still working on search and rescue, believing lives can be saved. But hours after the bridge collapsed, the authorities acknowledge this will soon become a salvage operation.

11:15 AM GMT

Where is the Baltimore Key Bridge?

10:48 AM GMT

Rescuers looking for at least seven people

Emergency services may be looking for upwards for upwards of seven individuals - thats the latest information we have, James Wallace said.

However, what I will say is, is the information that Im giving you right now is as of right now... this is a very large incident, it involves a very large footprint.

Multiple agencies are operating, therefore information is subject to chance as we get more intel and as our crews work the morning.

10:44 AM GMT

Vehicles underwater after bridge collapse

James Wallace, the Baltimore Fire Chief, revealed that their sonar has detected the presences of vehicles submerged in the water after the bridge collapsed.

10:39 AM GMT

This is an unthinkable tragedy

Brandon Scott, the Baltimore mayor, called the event an unthinkable tragedy.

He added: We have to first and foremost, pray for all of those who are impacted - those families - and pray for our first responders.

10:37 AM GMT

One person in a very serious condition

James Wallace, the Baltimore Fire Chief, said emergency services were able to remove two people from the water, one of whom was in a very serious condition.

He continued: One individual refused service and refused transport essentially that person was not injured.

However, there was another individual thats been transported to a local trauma centre that is in very serious condition.

10:22 AM GMT

Container ship that struck bridge was chartered by Maersk

The Dali container vessel that collided on Tuesday with a bridge in Baltimore was chartered by shipping company Maersk at the time of the accident, the Danish company has said.

We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected, Maersk said.

The Dali was set to depart Baltimore early on Tuesday and arrive at Colombo on April 22, according to a schedule on Maersks website.

The vessel is owned by Singapores Grace Ocean Pte and managed by Synergy Marine Group, according to LSEG data.

10:07 AM GMT

Watch: Moment Dali container ship appears to lose power before hitting bridge

10:05 AM GMT

Maryland governor declares state of emergency

Wes Moore, the Maryland governor, has declared a state of emergency over the bridge collapse.

Rescue workers are still searching for up to 20 people who are believed to have fallen into the water.

Kevin Cartwright, a Baltimore City Fire Department spokesman, earlier said the operation is going to extend for many days.

09:54 AM GMT

Pictured: Dali container ship lies beneath the wreckage of the bridge

The tangled wreckage of the bridge lies in the harbour - JIM LO SCALZO/Shutterstock

09:43 AM GMT

Transportation secretary offers federal support to rescue effort

Pete Buttigieg, the US transportation secretary, has offered federal support to Baltimores mayor and Marylands governor.

He wrote on X, formerly Twitter: Ive spoken with Gov. Moore and Mayor Scott to offer USDOTs support following the vessel strike and collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge.

Rescue efforts remain underway and drivers in the Baltimore area should follow local responder guidance on detours and response.

09:36 AM GMT

The Wire writer responds to news of bridge collapse

David Simon, the former journalist turned screenwriter behind The Wire, which was set in Baltimore and featured the bridge, has reacted to the news of its collapse this morning.

09:21 AM GMT

Pictured: Dawn reveals extent of destruction

The container ship Dali can be seen to the left of the destroyed Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore - Reuters

Few parts of the bridge remained standing after the collision - Steve Ruark/AP

09:08 AM GMT

Freezing temperatures complicate rescue mission

Low temperatures and poor visibility at the site of the bridge collapse pose a concern for rescue workers, who are searching for at least 20 people in the water.

Kevin Cartwright, a Baltimore City Fire Department spokesman, said his firefighters were working with the US Coast Guard around the port, where temperatures have fallen to -1C.

He told CNN: This happened at 1.30am with limited visibility so we are working aggressively, considering the environmental temperatures as well as the water temperatures to try and rescue and perhaps recover individuals.

It feels like at least about 30 degrees [-1C] where I am. It could be slightly lower than that. And Im sure that the water temperature is even colder... And that can pose a concern and risk for our divers.

09:00 AM GMT

Volunteer firefighters rush to join rescue efforts

Volunteer firefighters from Harford County, which lies to the north-east of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, are assisting the Unified Command at the Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.

A swift water team and a special operations team are among those assisting, the volunteer firefighters said on Twitter.

08:54 AM GMT

What is the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

Named after the writer of the US national anthem, the Francis Scott Key Bridge was opened in 1977.

Spanning 1.6 miles, it is the third longest continuous truss bridge in the world.

It took five years to build at an estimated cost of $110 million.

The bridge features as a location for a storyline from The Wire, the Baltimore-based TV crime drama, and in the 1979 Al Pacino movie, And Justice For All.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in The Wire

08:53 AM GMT

No injuries to crew on Dali container ship

Synergy Marine Group, which operates the Dali, has released a statement saying all crew members, including two pilots on board, were accounted for and there were no injuries on the ship.

The statement confirmed that the vessel had collided with one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge at around 1.30am local time.

The cause of the collision has yet to be determined, and the owners and the vessels managers are cooperating with the authorities, according to the statement.

08:52 AM GMT

Footage shows wreckage after the collapse

08:51 AM GMT

Ship named Dali

Authorities have said the ship was called Dali and was headed through Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, as its final destination.

The ship was flying under a Singapore flag, WTOP radio station reported, citing petty officer Matthew West from the Coast Guard in Baltimore.

08:48 AM GMT

Pictured: Bridge collapsing

The cargo ship (left) heads towards the bridge

The bridge collapses on impact

08:47 AM GMT

Entire bridge collapsed

Kevin Cartwright, of Baltimore Fire Department, told the Baltimore Sun: We have reason to believe that there were vehicles and possibly a tractor-trailer that went into the water.

He added that the entire bridge had collapsed.

08:44 AM GMT

Up to 20 people in the water

Up to 20 people went into Patapsco River after the Baltimore bridge collapse, according to the Baltimore City Fire Department communications chief.

08:37 AM GMT

Pictured: Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Seven people missing after Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

08:36 AM GMT

Livestream of crash on YouTube

A livestream of the bridge from a YouTube channel shows the ship turning before appearing to hit one of the bridges two central pylons at 1.28am.

A large section of the bridge then collapsed into the water within about 20 seconds. Parts of the bridge appeared to land on the bow of the cargo ship.

The video is from a camera operated by Bay Area Mechanical Services, according to the YouTube channel carrying the livestream, StreamTime Live.

08:27 AM GMT

Dire emergency

Kevin Cartwright, the director of communications for the Baltimore Fire Department, said in an update to the Associated Press at 3am (7am UK time): This is a dire emergency.

He added that it appears that there are some cargo or retainers hanging from the bridge, which are creating unsafe and unstable conditions, and, therefore, emergency responders are operating cautiously as a result.

08:26 AM GMT

Dive and rescue team on scene

The Baltimore City Fire Department told CBS that it was unclear how many vehicles were on the bridge at the time of the collision but a spokesman said there was surely a large tractor-trailer on it.

The spokesman added: There are at least seven people. The dive and rescue team has arrived on scene to locate the individuals.

Johnny Olszewski Jr., a Baltimore County executive, said on social media: Rescue efforts are underway. Please pray for those impacted.

08:09 AM GMT

Mass casualty event

Kevin Cartwright, the director of communications for the Baltimore Fire Department, said it was too early to know how many people were on the bridge but called the collapse a developing mass casualty event.

He said rescue workers were searching for at least seven people believed to be in the water. Our focus right now is trying to rescue and recover these people, Mr Cartwright said.

Rescue personnel gather on the shore of the Patapsco River after a cargo ship ran into the Francis Scott Key Bridge - JIM LO SCALZO/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

08:03 AM GMT

Baltimore City Mayor en route to incident

Brandon Scott, the mayor of Baltimore City, posted on X, formerly Twitter: Im aware of and en route to the incident at the Key Bridge.

Andrew Doyle, a fire boat operator, added: A container ship has struck the Key Bridge in Baltimore. Part of the bridge has collapsed. Multiple fire and police boats are on the way.

I'm aware of and en route to the incident at the Key Bridge. I have been in contact with @BaltimoreFire Chief Wallace, @GovWesMoore @JohnnyOJr, and @AACoExec. Emergency personnel are on scene, and efforts are underway.  Brandon M. Scott (@MayorBMScott) March 26, 2024

07:58 AM GMT

Cars seen driving across bridge when rammed

Multiple videos shared on social media show a large cargo ship ramming into one of the bridges support pillars, causing a large section to crash into the Patapsco River.

A number of cars are shown in the videos to have been driving across the bridge at the time.

The bridge, which was opened in 1977, is named after Francis Scott Key, the author of the American national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner.

07:49 AM GMT

Singapore cargo ship hit bridge

A US Coast Guard spokesman told the New York Times that a Singapore-flagged cargo ship, the Dali, had hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge at 1.27am Eastern time. The Dali is 948-feet long, he said.

MarineTraffic, a maritime data platform, showed a Singapore-flagged container ship of the same name stopped directly under the bridge early Tuesday.

The Dali left Baltimore at 1am and was bound for Colombo, Sri Lanka, according to the site.

07:38 AM GMT

Seven fallen into river

Chief Kevin Cartwright, the director of communications for the Baltimore City Fire Department, told the BBC that as many as seven individuals and several vehicles have fallen into the river.

He added that the bridge had been struck by a large vessel causing it to collapse into the Patapsco River.

There is now an ongoing multi-agency rescue operation being led by the fire department, collaborating with the US Coastguard and other Maryland agencies.

07:27 AM GMT

Moment the bridge collapsed

Footage shared online has shown the moment the bridge collapsed.

It is not currently known whether there are any casualties.

07:26 AM GMT

Welcome to our live coverage

Were bringing you the latest updates after a bridge collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland.
People take part in a rally remembering the victims of the Mafia in Rome - Stefano Montesi - Corbis/Corbis News

Children of Italian gangsters, including some who have been ordered to kill their mothers for suspected infidelity, are being placed in foster care or moved to safe houses under a newly expanded scheme.

Until now, only children born into the Mafia clans that make up the Ndrangheta in the southern region of Calabria were being removed by the authorities, but the scheme has now been expanded to cover Italys two other organised crime networks.

Removing children from clans, with the consent of their mothers where possible, is often the only way to prevent them from drifting into a life of crime investigators say.

The scheme was originally established in 2012 by Roberto Di Bella, a judge in a family court in Calabria.

It has proven so effective that it will now be extended to the region of Campania, where the Camorra Mafia holds sway, and Sicily, the domain of Cosa Nostra.

The expansion of the project, which is called Liberi di Scegliere or Free to Choose, was announced by the Italian justice ministry.

Carlo Nordio, the justice minister, said it represented a historic moment in the fight against the Mafia.

Judge Roberto di Bella seeks to break the cycle of children following their parents into a life of organised crime - ANDREAS SOLARO/afp

Judge di Bella said with the help of the Roman Catholic Church, the scheme had rescued 150 children and 30 women from the iron grip of Ndrangheta clans and a life of crime.

Seven of the women had agreed to collaborate with the justice system and inform on the criminal activities of their husbands.

The children are either placed with foster families or in communities in secret locations across the country, ideally accompanied by their mothers.

The battle against the Mafia is above all cultural. You have to remove them from a context in which they are condemned to a single destiny, Judge di Bella told La Repubblica, an Italian daily.

He said he had presided over dozens of trials which had involved entire generations of Ndrangheta families, with fathers enrolling their sons through the power of blood bonds and family obligations.

I have seen kids of eight who were forced to shoot people, put to work as messengers and drug pushers in the piazzas. Ive seen kids kill their own mothers to punish them, according to a supposed code of honour, for marital infidelity.

Judges had an obligation to try to save such children from Mafia violence, he said.

And there are more and more mothers who realise that, as well as giving their children a different future, they too can have a new life. They ask us to take them away from these situations.

He acknowledged that the scheme is not cheap. To keep a mother and her child in a safe location costs at least 100 (85) a day. Without a new identity, these women cannot work.

Andrea Ostellari, the deputy justice minister, said: The Mafia will cease to exist when we are able to break the circuit of criminality between parents and children.

Toxic links

By freeing children from the toxic links that bind them to criminal clans, the authorities are able to starve Mafia organisations of new recruits, he said. Women often risk their lives by leaving their husbands in search of a better life for their children, Mr Ostellari said.

The name Ndrangheta is Greek in origin and means society of men of honour. Its roots go back to the 19th century.

The Calabrian Mafia makes a fortune from drug dealing, in particular importing cocaine from South America.

Estimating its revenues is hard but Nicola Gratteri, a leading anti-Mafia prosecutor, believes the Ndrangheta has an annual turnover of about 40 billion
Forging ahead  Putrella, 1958, Maris fruit bowl made from a steel beam. Photograph: Milan Trienalle

Shortly before the maverick Italian designer Enzo Mari died in 2020, he donated his archive to the city of Milan with one condition: it must remain closed for the next 40 years. It would take at least that long, Mari argued, before we have a new generation that is not as spoilt as todays generation and that will be capable of using it in an informed manner.

Those who dont want to wait four decades should hightail it to the Design Museum in London, where a sprawling retrospective of Maris work is on show  perhaps for the last time in a generation or two. It is a fascinating and infuriating portrait of this self-styled contrarian, a fiery prophet of doom who carved out a career of contradictions. Mari was a lifelong Marxist who railed against the indulgent pornography of the design world, arguing tirelessly for workers rights and the democratisation of design. He was hailed as the conscience of the industry; the grumpy thorn in the side of the establishment who could be relied upon to hurl colourful insults at his contemporaries (publicity whores!), between puffs on his cigars.

Yet his lasting legacy is not to be found in affordable mass-produced homewares for the common man, but expensive limited edition objects sold in exclusive boutiques. His best-known design  an interlocking childrens puzzle of 16 animals cut in one continuous line from a single piece of oak  is found less in the grubby hands of toddlers than on the carefully curated desks of design aficionados. You can buy it in the Design Museum shop for 340.

In the 1980s Mari curated a collection of sickles and scythes from around the world, recreated in this exhibition, which he saw as archetypes of honest, functional design, honed by the collective knowledge of blacksmiths and farmers. His own contribution? A limited edition art multiple of a scythe, one of which recently sold for 14,500. This is communism as collectible, certificate of authenticity included.

So how did Mari reconcile railing against consumerism on the one hand, and filling the world with yet more products on the other? Born in Novara, northern Italy, in 1932, he didnt have an easy start. Mari dropped out of school when his father became ill, and spent several years doing odd jobs as a bricklayer, sign painter, soap salesman and market porter. He eventually enrolled at the Brera Academy of fine arts in Milan, moving from painting to sculpture to stage design, his successive teachers each suggesting he pursue a different avenue. I asked too many questions, he said, and was never happy with the answers. Later, he admitted he was thankful that he was never castrated by a design school.



The jumbled variety of Maris college years is reflected in the breadth of his prolific output, which saw him create more than 2,000 works during his 60-year career. This chronological exhibition (first shown at the Milan Triennale in 2020) jumps from sculptural op art experiments, to childrens books, injection-moulded vases, political manifestos, daybeds, DIY manuals and porcelain bowls.

Whichever realm he tackled, his approach was always governed by the principle that he would only intervene where strictly necessary. I suggest looking outside the window, he once said. If you like what you see, theres no reason for new projects. If, on the other hand, there are things that fill you with horror to the point of making you want to kill those responsible, then there are good reasons for your project.

It is unclear whether Mari wanted to kill childrens book authors and toy makers, but his early designs in this area reveal a keen eye for form. The interlocking wooden puzzle, 16 Animali, is a wonderfully elegant thing, a menagerie of cartoonish creatures silhouettes ingeniously nested together. The preliminary sketches for his Nature Series of animal posters reveal his precise process of paring back the animals to their bare recognisable essentials, something he learned from his days of sign-painting.

Each time I would attempt to figure out what was essential, he said in later life. This search for what is essential is my first thought when designing. The print series turned into a pair of picture books, the simple forms intended as a way of drawing childrens attention to shapes, against the distraction of television.

Inspired by the essential building blocks of modernity, Maris early product designs often took the form of laconic as found objects, like his Putrella fruit bowl  a simple chunk of steel I-beam, slightly bent up at each end to stop the fruit rolling out (yours for 580). In a similar vein, he created a range of trays and dishes made of raw plate steel, crudely welded together, the primitive finish intended to show the hand of the labourer, turning the imperfections into a decorative quality.

The production process was always front and centre. For the second iteration of his Java food container in the 1960s, he simplified the joint of the lid, removing the need for a connecting pin, which was applied by hand, thereby easing the burden of repetitive gestures on production line workers.

Such a worker-minded design approach didnt always go according to plan. When Mari was commissioned to produce a porcelain collection in the 1970s, he decided to liberate the artisans and give them licence to invent their own designs. He encouraged them to use ancient pottery and basketry techniques, and created some template designs of coiled, woven and layered strips and circles of clay, to give them inspiration. But his hope of unleashing a William Morris utopia of creative craftspeople, unshackled from top-down instructions, fell flat: left to their own devices, the workers painstakingly replicated Maris examples instead.

The designers one brief foray into the realm of affordable furniture didnt quite work out either. In 1971 he designed a steel-framed sofa-bed for manufacturer Driade, with a cylindrical polyurethane backrest that could simply be rotated out of the way to turn it into a bed. It was affordable, multifunctional and well promoted, but it proved a commercial failure. I was greatly depressed, said Mari. The public to whom this type of project was addressed refused it because they did not recognise it as part of the cultural system. He thought the main reason for the failure was that it cost too little. It didnt occur to him that people might have found his clumsy contraption neither comfortable nor beautiful.

Spurred on by this failure, Mari decided the only solution was to put the means of production directly in the hands of the people themselves. In 1974, he embarked on his most famous project, a proposal for autoprogettazione, or self-design, to empower people to make furniture themselves. He developed a series of chairs, tables, beds and shelving units that could be knocked together from simple planks of pine with a hammer and nails, stating that he would send the manual to anyone who wrote to him, for just the cost of postage. Beautiful little models of the furniture are lined up in the exhibition, alongside the original instructions and correspondence.

The pieces were intentionally crude and ascetic in their bodged simplicity, embodying a kind of anarchic punk spirit and, once again, the idea was that people should use his designs as a starting point to create their own variants. Mari encouraged people to write back to him explaining what they had made, joining the collective fight against the rampant consumption of luxury furniture. The project garnered coverage around the world and Mari received more than 5,000 letters. But, as usual, he was nonplussed by the response. In 99% of cases, he said, it was not understood or misunderstood. He was particularly disgusted by one American fan, who had commissioned others to make the whole range of Maris delightfully rustic furniture for his chalet in Aspen, reducing the radical experiment to cutesy kitsch.

Still, it seems like success  commercial or otherwise  was never Maris intention. When I design an object, he once told an interviewer, and people say, Oh, well done!, I unfailingly ask myself, Where did I go wrong? If everybody likes it, it means I have confirmed the existing reality and this is precisely what I dont want.

He would no doubt be furious if anyone enjoyed this exhibition. We clearly all missed the point.

 Enzo Mari is at the Design Museum, London, 29 March to 8 September
Activists in Berlin, Germany, block a highway to protest against food waste and for agricultural change to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Photograph: Christian Mang/Reuters

More than a billion meals are thrown away every day, in poor countries as well as rich ones, despite more than 730 million people living in hunger around the world.

About a fifth of food is wasted, sometimes through profligacy or poor planning, sometimes from a lack of access to refrigeration or storage, according to the UN Food Waste Index report, published on Wednesday, at a global cost of about $1tn a year.

Households are responsible for most of the worlds food waste  about 60% of the 1bn tonnes of food thrown away annually. But commercial food systems are also a substantial contributor: food services accounted for 28% of waste, and retail for about 12% in 2022, the latest data available.

These figures exclude an additional 13% of food that is lost in the food supply chain, between harvest and market, often from rejection or spoilage of edible food.

Not only is this waste squandering natural resources, it is also a big contributor to the climate and biodiversity crises, accounting for close to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and displacing wildlife from intensive farming, as more than a quarter of the worlds agricultural land is given over to the production of food that is subsequently wasted.

Inger Andersen, the executive director of the UN Environment Programme, which wrote the report in conjunction with the UKs Waste and Resources Action Programme (Wrap), described food waste as a global tragedy, and contrasted this with the fact that a third of people face food insecurity, unsure of where their future meals will come from.

Related: How to turn stale bread, leek tops and aquafaba into brilliant vegetarian sausages  recipe | Waste not

Andersen said: Millions will go hungry today as food is wasted across the world. Not only is this a major development issue, but the impacts of such unnecessary waste are causing substantial costs to the climate and nature.

Few countries have plans in place to reduce food waste and most fail to include it in their proposals for reducing carbon emissions.

The UN now has reliable data from more than 100 countries, which has enabled researchers to say with certainty that food waste is a global problem, afflicting developing countries as well as the profligate rich world. More food appears to be thrown away in hot countries, perhaps reflecting the shorter time it takes for food to spoil in higher temperatures, a lack of access to refrigeration and higher consumption of fresh food with more inedible parts.

Poorer households also tend to throw away food at a rate not much lower than those with higher incomes: they were responsible on average for about 7kg per person of waste less a year than richer households. This may reflect many factors, including a lack of access to adequate refrigeration and storage, reliance on lower quality food and a lack of time to make nutritious meals.

Harriet Lamb, the chief executive of Wrap, called for countries to take action. We need greater coordinated action across continents and supply chains,. Whether philanthropic, business or governmental, actors must rally behind programmes addressing the enormous impact wasting food has on food security, our climate and our wallets.

Around the world, about 79kg of food is wasted per person annually. But in some countries, including the UK, Australia, Indonesia, Mexico and South Africa, food waste has been cut substantially since 2007. Japan has cut its food waste by nearly a third, and the UK by about 18%.

Lisa Moon, the chief executive of the Global FoodBanking Network, called on retailers and food producers to work more closely with food banks to reduce waste and tackle the hunger and cost of living crises.

She said: Food banking is an important and unique model in reducing food loss and waste, because food banks not only work with farms, manufacturers, retailers and food services to rescue wholesome food, but they also make sure that food ends up on the tables of people facing food insecurity.

We must continue to invest in community-led solutions, as well as advance stronger food waste policies to build food systems that nourish people and the planet.

In the UK, the government has announced 295m of funding for local councils to organise weekly collections of food waste, aimed at composting and preventing food waste from going to landfill, where its rotting generates methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. Evidence shows that collecting food waste separately can encourage people to reform their habits, as they see clearly how much of what they buy is going into the bin.
Micheal Martin tells the media that Ireland will intervene in South Africas genocide case against Israel. Photograph: Grainne Ni Aodha/PA

Ireland is to seek to widen the definition of genocide to include blocking humanitarian aid in a landmark international court of justice (ICJ) case against Israel.

The Irish government will intervene in the case taken by South Africa and argue that restricting food and other essentials in Gaza may constitute genocidal intent, the foreign minister Micheal Martin said on Wednesday.

We believe there is a case, given how this war has been conducted, Martin told the Guardian.

We will be inviting the court to consider the issue of broadening how you determine whether genocide has taken place or not on the basis of an entire population being collectively punished.

A clear pattern of behaviour had impeded humanitarian aid, resulting in widespread suffering, he said. Half the population of Gaza is facing famine and 100% is experiencing food insecurity.

Aid agencies say only about a fifth of necessary supplies are reaching Gaza as Israel continues an air and ground offensive in the enclave in the wake of Hamass attacks on Israel last October. Twelve people were reported drowned on Tuesday trying to get aid dropped by plane off a beach.

Related: How South Africas genocide case against Israel played out in The Hague

Martin said the Hamas attacks, and what is now unfolding in Gaza, were blatant violations of international humanitarian law on a mass scale.

In preliminary decision in January, the UN court in The Hague told Israel to prevent genocide but Martin, who is also Irelands tanaiste (deputy prime minister), said that since then humanitarian aid had halved, inflicting starvation. Weve experienced famine, we know what its like in our psyche.

Earlier on Wednesday the foreign ministry announced that Ireland will intervene in South Africas case against Israel under article 63 of the statue of the ICJ. The announcement underlined Dublins image as one of the EUs most pro-Palestinian states.

Dublin flagged the move in January when it said it was considering filing a declaration of intervention based on legal analysis of the Genocide Convention and consultation with other parties.

That process had concluded and Dublin had decided to intervene, Martin said in an interview.

It will focus on the definition of genocide and broadening the criteria upon which genocide is determined, with Ireland seeking to challenge the high threshold set by major states, he said.

Related: ICJ case against Israel could finally empower the genocide convention

First of all there needs to be accountability for what has happened in Gaza, but secondly we want to influence the future conduct of war.

Ireland is to file the intervention after South Africa has filed its memorial to the court, which could take several months. Martin said Ireland will liaise with partners, raising the possibility of other states supporting the intervention.

Michael Becker, a Trinity College Dublin professor of international human rights law who previously worked at the ICJ, said genocide law had developed in ways that made it very difficult to prove genocidal intent, raising doubts about whether the convention was fit for purpose.

Ireland might seek to impress on the court that genocidal intent can and should be inferred from policy decisions that knowingly produce famine, he said.

Ireland or other intervening states could assist the court by explaining how a consistent record of international humanitarian law violations can be relevant to establishing genocidal intent.
An online creator gave Buc-ee's a run for its money when he tried to cash in on a $1.19 drink refill with a trash can-sized soda cup.

In a video posted on TikTok, popular YouTuber Eric Decker brought a jumbo white trash can with the Buc-ee's logo to the travel stop's Bastrop location.

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Before heading to the drink station, Decker verified with an employee that refills of any size go for only $1.19. The video captures customers' shocked reactions as he hauls in the massive cup and starts pouring Arizona Iced Tea at the soda fountain.

"Mind if I get a sip of that?" one onlooker asked.

Decker was hoisting up the trash can to oblige the fellow when an employee approached, asking the video creator to leave the store and take his Texas-sized refill with him.

"I can't have y'all doing that here," the employee said.

In the next clip, Decker pays the $1.19 for his thwarted soda caper and walks outside to flashing police lights. He says "cops (were) called" in the video, but it's not clear whether authorities arrived to investigate the colossal cup or something else entirely.

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Among the roughly 630,000 viewers of the video were users who said Buc-ee's is serious when it comes to their store policies.

In January, a man brought his service duck inside a Tennessee Buc-ee's and was banned from all locations for life.
Hunter Biden with his lawyer Abbe Lowell, left - J SCOTT APPLEWHITE/AP PHOTO

A US judge appeared sceptical of Hunter Bidens claim he is the victim of vigilante justice in the latest attempt to get his tax evasion charges thrown out of court.

The presidents son, 54, argues the case against him is the result of prosecutors caving to political pressure from Republicans intent on pursuing his father.

But he faced a dubious audience from the presiding judge, Mark Scarsi, who asked whether Mr Bidens lawyers have any evidence to back up their arguments.

Mr Biden faces nine counts for failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes between 2016 and 2019, while spending heavily on drugs, escorts, and luxury cars and clothes. His lawyer has said he paid back the money in full.

In court in Los Angeles, Mr Bidens lawyer, Abbe Lowell, made yet another effort to quash the case, which is scheduled to come to trial in California on June 20.

He said while his client did clearly stupid things, he paid the taxes he owed in full.

He faces a separate trial in Delaware on June 3 over allegations he owned a gun for 11 days in 2018 while abusing drugs.

Trials will feature in presidential race

He is the first child of a sitting president to face criminal charges, and his looming trials are likely to feature extensively in the presidential race between his 81-year-old father and Donald Trump, 77.

Mr Biden has pleaded not guilty in both cases, which have been brought by special counsel David Weiss.

Mr Weiss has accused Mr Bidens team of spreading conspiracy theories about the prosecution in their effort to have the cases dismissed.

In their arguments before Judge Mark Scarsi, Mr Bidens team claimed Mr Weiss brought the tax case because he bowed to political pressure from Republicans who criticised a proposed plea agreement covering the tax and gun charges as a sweetheart deal.

Mr Biden is being targeted because of his political and familial affiliations, the lawyers said.

Prosecutors deny claims of appeasing politicians

They also argued the case should be thrown out because of the earlier plea arrangement, which collapsed under questioning from a federal judge last year.

Prosecutors have said it never took effect and denied claims their actions were designed to appease politicians who have absolutely nothing to do with the prosecution.

In another motion to get the case dismissed, Mr Bidens lawyers argued the case had been irreparably tainted by the actions of two IRS agents who worked on the criminal investigation but later became whistleblowers and co-operated with a Republican impeachment inquiry into the president and his relatives.

The two agents, the lawyers said, had taken the law into their own hands by leaking his tax records and pursued vigilante justice in the court of public opinion.

Leo Wise, one of the prosecutors on the case, said it was patently absurd that the agents had influenced prosecutors.

Judge Scarsi concluded the hours of legal sparring between the two sides by saying he would announce his decision on whether the case continues to go to trial by April 17.

His probing of Mr Lowell in court on Wednesday suggested he took a dim view of Mr Bidens arguments.

There doesnt seem to be any evidence that Republicans influenced the prosecutors decision other than the timeline, Judge Scarsi said, calling Mr Lowells arguments smoke without fire.

Its a timeline, but its a pretty juicy timeline, Mr Lowell replied.

If convicted of the tax charges, the presidents son could receive a maximum sentence of 17 years in prison.
Kari Lake unexpectedly conceded defeat in a defamation lawsuit brought by Stephen Richer, a top Arizona election official. Composite: Getty Images

Kari Lake signaled on Tuesday that she will not contest claims that she lied about a top Arizona election official and defamed him, a significant legal concession from the Arizona Republican who has become one of the countrys most prominent election deniers.

Stephen Richer, the top election official in Maricopa county, sued Lake, her campaign and an aligned Pac last year after she lost her gubernatorial bid and repeatedly lied about him. Lake, who is now running for the US Senate, falsely accused him of injecting 300,000 illegal votes into machines and intentionally misprinting ballots so they would be rejected by ballot tabulators.

Related: US politicians exploit loophole to skirt campaign finance rules, study finds

Richer said the claims turned the lives of him and his family upside down and made them the targets of threats of violence, even death. He asked a jury to award compensatory and punitive damages and wants Lake and her team to remove all false information about him from the internet.

In a court filing on Tuesday, Lake essentially conceded she wont try to prove that her claims were true or that she had a reasonable basis to believe they were. Instead, she asked a Maricopa county judge to quickly set a hearing for a default judgment against her and move to hold a hearing to determine what damages, if any, she should have to pay. Lake is still requesting the empaneling of a jury to resolve any factual disputes around the damages issues.

Richer and lawyers for Protect Democracy, a non-profit organization representing him, said Lakes filing was essentially a surrender and claimed victory. After months of doubling down and defending their lies across Arizona, in the media, and on social media, when push came to shove, the defendants decided to completely back down and concede that their lies were just that: lies, Richer said in a statement.

Lake denied she had conceded anything.

I didnt surrender, I simply cut-to-the-chase. We filed papers demanding a hearing in 30 days for Stephen to prove how my words harmed him. I am ready to go to court now, Stephen. Are you? she wrote in a Twitter post.

In her filing, her lawyers suggested they would use the damages proceedings to dive into Richers medical history and political funding. Her lawyers also wrote that her request for a default judgment did not concede anything about damages because Richer had not been specific enough in his complaint about how any damages he suffered were traceable to her.

Defendants request a jury to adjudicate any factual disputes. It is often said that defaulting admits the allegations in the operative complaint. This is a misnomer, her lawyers wrote.

Lakes filing is the latest development as several groups have turned to defamation lawsuits as a tool to try to hold those who spread misinformation accountable for their lies. The voting equipment vendor Dominion settled with Fox for $787.5m last year. Rudy Giuliani was ordered to pay $148.1m to two Georgia election workers. Giuliani, who received a default judgment order in his case after declining to turn over evidence, has claimed bankruptcy and has yet to pay the workers.

Earlier this year, the far-right outlet Project Veritas admitted it falsely accused a US postal worker of fraud during the 2020 election as part of a defamation suit settlement. The postal worker was also represented by Protect Democracy.

Lakes filing came right before the case entered the discovery phase  the process during which parties exchange potentially relevant evidence, including emails and other documents in their possession. In other defamation cases, information obtained in discovery has led to humiliating public disclosures, including revelations that key Fox News talent knew claims about the election being stolen were false.

Daniel Maynard, a lawyer who is helping represent Richer, maintained in a statement that by permitting a judgment to be entered against her, Lake is conceding that she intentionally lied about Richers actions in the 2022 election.

These types of unwarranted attacks on our public servants need to stop, he said. Those who run for public office and lose need to learn to accept defeat with grace rather than falsely attacking those who administer our elections.

Lee Levine, a longtime first amendment lawyer, said it was not unheard of for a defendant to concede liability in a defamation case in order to focus on damages. Such a strategy may prevent the jury from hearing inflammatory information about how the defendant knew the information was false and make the case a more antiseptic discussion of how much money the plaintiff is owed. From a PR perspective, its changing the narrative, he said.

Still, Levine added, it was a risky strategy to solely focus on damages.

If the plaintiff is claiming injury to reputation, they should be allowed to put on reputation witnesses to talk about how their reputation was injured, he said. So somebody can talk about the devastation of what was said, they believe what was said, why they thought less of the plaintiff as a result, and all the ways they were influenced by the defamation. And then, of course, family members would testify about the extreme emotional stress that the plaintiff suffered.

RonNell Andersen Jones, a first amendment scholar at the University of Utah, said Lake may have chosen to ask for default judgment, despite appearing to have a legal advantage, to avoid an expensive defamation suit and having to turn over potentially embarrassing discovery to the plaintiffs in the case.

As a free speech matter, the deck was stacked in Kari Lakes favor in a case like this. She would have been litigating under the most defendant-generous standard in the world, she said. The plaintiff suing her would bear all of the heavy burden of proving not only that she lied but that she did so deliberately or with reckless disregard for the truth. A defendant who was confident that the things theyd said were true might not be expected to concede the case.
A man has been attacked by a knife-wielding assailant on a train in south east London

A man has been attacked by a knife-wielding assailant on a train in south east London.

The victim has been taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and a manhunt for the suspect was underway, police said.

Graphic footage of the attack, which took place on a train near Beckenham Junction shortly before 4pm, was widely shared on social media.

In the video, a hooded man wearing a face mask is seen lunging at another person on the floor with a large knife.

One passenger, who appears to be calling the police, can be heard screaming stop it now before saying: Im on the train to Beckenham Junction and this mans stabbing someone on the train.

Steve White, the managing director of Southeastern Railway, said it was a very serious assault.

He added: We are supporting the police in the gathering of evidence. Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Police said no arrests had been made and the two men had been fighting as they boarded the train at Shortlands station.

Southeastern railway said services between Shortlands and Victoria via Herne Hill are currently being disrupted.

Officers at the scene at Beckenham Junction - UKNIP

A spokesman for the British Transport Police said: Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a man was seriously injured at Beckenham Junction today.

At around 3.56pm today [March 27], we received reports of two men fighting while entering a train at Shortlands [railway station]. A man sustained serious injuries consistent with being stabbed.



Officers attended, alongside colleagues from the Metropolitan Police Service and the London Ambulance Service, and the victim was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Enquiries are ongoing and there have been no arrests so far.

British Transport Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident to contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 397 of 27/03/2024.

This is breaking story, more to follow
Richard Serra in 2008. He has died aged 85. Photograph: Regina Kuehne/EPA

Richard Serra, the American artist known for bending the boundaries of sculpture, has died at the age of 85.

Serra died at home on Tuesday at his home in New York. The cause of death was pneumonia, his lawyer John Silberman confirmed to the New York Times.

Related: Man of steel: an interview with Richard Serra

Serra was best known for his gigantic curved sheets of oxidised steel, such as the 1,034-tonne series The Matter of Time that fills the main hall of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Such weighty works radically transformed the spaces where they were installed and were often said to instil a physical reaction in their viewers. Im working at the edge of whats possible, Serra once said.

Serra was born in San Francisco in 1939 to a Russian-Jewish mother and a Spanish father, who fitted pipes in a shipyard. The young Serra was inspired by seeing a ship launched as a child and was encouraged to draw by his mother. He studied fine art at Yale alongside peers who included Chuck Close and his eventual first wife Nancy Graves  but was suspended for two weeks after pulling a prank on the visiting critic, artist Robert Rauschenberg, that involved bringing a live chicken into class.

Serra found inspiration during a trip to Paris with Philip Glass, during which he visited the studio of Constantin Brancusi and hung around the haunts of his hero Alberto Giacometti. But it was in Spain, while seeing Diego Velazquezs painting Las Meninas  a 17thcentury group portrait that plays with the notion of viewing  that Serra began to reconsider everything he knew about art. He went through a period of total confusion that included working with stuffed animals, before reinventing his practice around sculpture and the idea that the viewer themselves would be the true subject of his work.

The whole subject-object relationship is reversed. The content is you! he told the Guardian in 2008. If you dont walk into the work and engage with it, there isnt any content.

Serra spent much of the 1960s as part of the underground art scene in New York, where he worked with unconventional materials such as latex, neon and molten lead  the last used for his splash pieces, in which he threw it at the base of walls then let it harden into ragged metal. As the decade drew to a close he had a breakthrough with Strike: To Roberta and Rudy, in which he divided the room into two with a plate of steel and found himself closer to his aim of toying with the viewers perspective.

In 1970 Serra divorced Graves and began creating site-specific landscape sculptures, in Japan, Canada and across the US, focusing on each locations topography and how the work would interact with it as the viewer walked around it. But it was his urban sculptures that caused the most controversy. In 1981, when Tilted Arc was installed in Manhattans Federal Plaza, the 120ft-long (36.5 metres) stretch of rusting steel split opinion, with those critical labelling it an eyesore. Serra even recalled seeing posters emblazoned with the phrase Kill Serra. During a public hearing in 1985, a jury voted for the sculptures removal. Serra went as far as to sue the US government over the verdict but failed. The work was cut into three parts and now resides in a warehouse in Brooklyn. I dont think it is the function of art to be pleasing, Serra complained at the time, likening the loss of the sculpture to a death in the family.

But as he grew older the public warmed to his huge steel works, which seemed to reference the industrial age and the shipyards of his childhood. Fulcrum, his 1987 installation near Londons Liverpool Street station, fared better than Tilted Arc. Affection for his work began to accelerate in the following decade when he broke with the right angles of modernism and embraced curvature. His Torqued Ellipses, made in the 1990s using rolled steel plates, could all be entered and walked around. The Matter of Time, eight curved sculptures made between 1994 and 2005 for the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, became his career-defining work. Two years after they were installed, Serra received his second retrospective at New Yorks Museum of Modern Art. His work has been installed in landscapes and museums across the globe, from Iceland to Zealand via Qatar.

Married to the art historian Clara Weyergraf since 1981, Serra remained active as an artist into his 80s, describing a 2019 show at New Yorks Gagosian Gallery as his heaviest show ever. Up until his death he was regarded as the best-known living sculptor in the US, his heavy, physical work increasingly at odds with the airy ephemera of the digital era. Indeed, when asked by the conceptual artist Michael Craig-Martin in 2015 which other artists approached sculpture like he did, he replied: I dont think anyone does.
Edinburgh Academy has come under increasing scrutiny over the past year. Photograph: f8stockpix/Alamy

A sadistic deputy headteacher at one of Scotlands most prestigious private schools has been found to have conducted a systematic campaign of violence and torture against children as young as eight over a 20-year period.

John Brownlee was found by a sheriff on Wednesday to have committed more than 30 assaults. The former Edinburgh Academy housemaster was formally excused from trial due to his advanced dementia.

Instead, the charges against the 89-year-old were heard in a quasi-trial process known as an examination of facts overseen, without a jury, by Sheriff Ian Anderson, who described the teachers behaviour as extreme criminal bullying.

Brownlee was found to have committed 31 charges of assault and assault to injury, relating to incidents spanning 1967 to 1991, as well as a composite charge of cruel and unnatural treatment across the 20 years he worked as a teacher at the school.

In a case based entirely on the testimony of survivors, Brownlees victims  many speaking half a century after the assaults took place  provided harrowing testimony about the arbitrary and gratuitous nature of the violence they endured as children, many boarding away from home for the first time.

The men characterised Brownlee as a sadist and a psychopath, who relished both the pain he inflicted and the terror of its anticipation.

The teacher was notorious for his use of the clacken, a wooden bat he would use to hit their backsides with repeated force, but would also smack, kick and throttle children in his care often without provocation.

Witnesses including Nicky Campbell, the BBC journalist and broadcaster, recounted how Brownlee relished creating an atmosphere of randomised violence and humiliation.

One former boarding pupil recalled Brownlee had a clacken with a smiling face on one side, a sad one on the other. He would at random spin it into the air in the class if a boy had attracted his attention; if it landed sad-face up, the boy would be hit.

Anderson noted that we recognise now that there may be many reasons why people might delay reporting something that they say happened to them as children, underlining that just because there has been a delay does not mean the evidence cannot be correct.

Speaking on behalf of the Edinburgh Academy Survivors Group, many of whom had attended Edinburgh sheriff court to hear the ruling in person, Graeme Sneddon spoke of his relief that justice has been done.

Describing Brownlee as a sadistic, evil and violent monster, Sneddon went on: This took place in a primary school, where it was known he was extremely violent towards pupils, and yet nothing was done to protect them as he was the deputy headmaster and other teachers were scared of him.

Brownlees violence had caused a lifetime of untold damage to those affected, said Sneddon, adding: Todays verdict after almost three weeks of evidence and a year of police investigations sends a strong signal that the law will one day catch up with anyone who abuses children.

Edinburgh Academy has come under increasing scrutiny over the past year as former pupils gave their evidence of alleged physical, sexual and psychological abuse there to the Scottish child abuse inquiry.

Responding to the ruling, the current rector of the school, Barry Welsh, reiterated his apology to all those affected by historical abuse, first made during the inquiry hearings.

Welsh said: Our commitment to facing up to the wrongs of the past remains unwavering. Many former pupils have shown remarkable bravery by giving evidence over several years, and we would like to reiterate our apology to all those affected by any abuse that occurred at our school. Our door is always open to anyone who wishes to discuss their experiences.

Welsh, who attended both the inquiry hearings and many days of the court hearing, has commissioned Philip Dundas, himself a survivor of abuse at the school, to write a book based on interviews with the abuse survivors, giving their accounts, called Breaking the Silence.

At least five other former staff are facing charges in connection with historical abuse at the school after their arrest last December.

The charges, which follow a lengthy policy investigation and are informed by the testimonies put before the inquiry, relate to abuse incidents alleged to have taken place at the school between 1968 and 1992.
Miguel Luna, left, and Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, two of the people missing after bridge collapse. Photograph: via Facebook

The six men presumed dead in the Baltimore bridge collapse on Tuesday all appeared to be construction workers originally from Latin American countries, according to reports, including a father of three, Miguel Luna, from El Salvador, as authorities said they had recovered the black box recorder from the ship.

Since the container ship Dali crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge after losing power early on Tuesday morning, six members of a construction crew filling potholes on the major bridge are now presumed to be dead, according to state officials.

Two of the victims were identified on Wednesday after their submerged pickup truck was recovered from the waters near the bridge. Authorities named them as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, originally from Mexico and living in Baltimore, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, who was from Guatemala and living in Dundalk, Maryland.

Related: It seems impossible: Baltimore residents grapple with bridge collapse

The immigrant services non-profit We Are Casa confirmed that Luna, 49, had lived in Maryland for at least 19 years.

He is a husband, a father of three, and has called Maryland his home for over 19 years, its executive director, Gustavo Torres, said in a statement. Lunas son Marvin told the Washington Post he knew his father was on the bridge but he had not heard of the tragedy until friends called him.

Speaking to Telemundo 44, Lunas wife, Maria del Carmen Castellon, said: They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they cant give us information  [We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we dont know if theyve rescued them yet. Were just waiting to hear any news.

Another victim was named as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval. Originally from Azacualpa in Honduras, 38-year-old Sandoval had lived in the US for the last 18 years, his brother Martin Suazo told CNN.

According to Suazo, Sandoval was married and had an 18-year old son and a five-year-old daughter. His brother added that Sandoval moved to the US for better opportunities and had launched his own maintenance business.

In a post on Facebook, a relative named Marina Maldonado Villeda wrote: Maynor Suazo, our friend, relative and neighbor originally from Azacualpa, Santa Barbara, is missing after an accident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, which caused the destruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in the United States. Maynor is a guy with warmth and quality of people, entrepreneur with a vision and mission to serve our community.

We wish with our hearts that he is alive, Our prayers to see you again and continue to enjoy your joy and enthusiasm. We hug you with the Suazo Sandoval family, Villeda added.

The foreign affairs ministry of Guatemala confirmed that two of the workers were nationals, though it did not name them. It said the Guatemalan consul general had spoken with family members.

The ministry said the two people were 26 and 35, originally from San Luis, Peten, and Camotan, Chiquimula, respectively.

Speaking to reporters, the Mexican president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, said that a total of three Mexican nationals were working on the bridge when it collapsed. He added that one was rescued alive while two others remained missing.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Mexican foreign ministry said that the person who was rescued was originally from Michoacan and was recovering from his injuries. The two people who are missing are originally from Veracruz and Michoacan, the ministry said.

Jesus Campos, a construction worker, said he knew the missing crew members and that they were all from Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Mexico. Its a difficult situation, he said, speaking through a translator. My friends were working on that bridge.

Campos said the men all worked for the construction company, Brawner Builders, where he himself had worked for eight months  including on the overnight shift, until he was transferred to daytime hours one month ago.

He said the workers were low-income immigrants who used their wages to support family members in the US and abroad.

The contractor is based in Baltimore county, a senior executive said on Tuesday. They were wonderful family people, the executive, Jeffrey Pritzker, told the New York Times. Its just a very, very bad day.

A crowdfunding campaign set up by the Latino Racial Justice Circle, a non-profit organization serving the Baltimore area, had raised over $47,000 for the victims families as of Wednesday afternoon. The funds will be distributed across the families and will be put towards basic needs including rent, groceries and utilities, the campaign said.

A National Transportation Safety Board team boarded the Dali on Tuesday night, its chair, Jennifer Homendy, told CNN, where they retrieved the data recorder as part of an investigation into what happened and when.

The Wall Street Journal reported sources saying the investigation would explore whether contaminated fuel played a role in the incident, though no evidence has yet been cited to suggest that.

Maryland remains in a state of emergency.
Thai lawmakers inside parliament celebrate the passing of the marriage equality bill. Photograph: Rungroj Yongrit/EPA

Lawmakers in Thailands lower house of parliament have overwhelmingly approved a marriage equality bill that would make the country the first in south-east Asia to legalise equal rights for marriage partners of any gender.

Four hundred of 415 lawmakers present voted for the bill on Wednesday and footage from inside parliament showed people standing and applauding afterwards.

In a post on X, Danuphorn Punnakanta, a spokesperson for the majority Pheu Thai party and president of the committee overseeing the marriage equality bill, said: The right to equality in Thailand has begun today. It is the beginning, and further legislation for peoples rights and freedom will follow.

The bill must now be approved by the senate and endorsed by the Thai king. After this endorsement, the bill would be published in the Royal Gazette and become law after 60 days.

If that happens, Thailand will follow Taiwan and Nepal as the only countries in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage.

The Pheu Thai post added: Today is considered a good sign that Thailand will be the first country in south-east Asia to have equal marriage laws. It raises the level of Thailand in the eyes of the world.

In a statement published prior to the vote, Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn, human rights associate at Fortify Rights, said: Thailand is close to becoming the first country in south-east Asia to ensure marriage rights for LGBTI+ couples, which is a cause for celebration; however, certain shortcomings in the current draft must be addressed to ensure all rights extend to LGBTI+ persons.

Versions of the legislation had debated by the national assembly since December, before the cabinet of the prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, sent the bill to Parliament.

Four draft bills on same-sex marriage were put forward by different political parties, and these were then consolidated into one, though the text is not public yet. This context will be key.

Yangyuenpradorn added: Before the final reading of the bill by the lower house, it is imperative that parliamentarians eliminate the presence of gendered language in the current draft that may limit rights for LGBTI+ persons, particularly rights for LGBTI+ couples with children.

According to the Pheu Thai post, Punnakantas committee in charge of consolidating the draft bills considered that some sections of the motion contain wording that is inconsistent with the current social context. Therefore, the wording has been adjusted to be appropriate for gender equality.

Same-sex marriage legislation has been discussed in Thailand for more than a decade, but political turmoil and disagreements on the approach prevented the issue from moving this far.

In 2020, the constitutional court ruled that the countrys marriage law, which recognises heterosexual couples, was constitutional while recommending that it be expanded to ensure the rights of other types of couples.

At this stage, Thailand is well ahead of the rest of south-east Asia on same-sex marriage. Vietnam abolished penalties for holding same-sex marriages in 2013, but does not legally recognise such unions. Malaysia, Myanmar, and Brunei, on the other hand, criminalise same-sex sexual activity.
Ronna McDaniel on Meet the Press in Washington DC on 12 November 2023. Photograph: William B Plowman/NBC via Getty Images

Donald Trump mocked the former Republican National Committee (RNC) chair Ronna McDaniel, for her firing by NBC days after being hired as a political analyst.

Related: Can NBC News recover from its damaging decision to hire Ronna McDaniel? | Margaret Sullivan

Wow! the former president and presumptive Republican nominee, who ejected McDaniel from the RNC in favour of his daughter-in-law Lara Trump, wrote on his Truth Social platform.

Ronna McDaniel got fired by Fake News NBC. She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear. It leaves her in a very strange place, its called NEVER NEVERLAND, and its not a place you want to be.

McDaniels hiring was announced by NBC last Friday. Interviewed on Meet the Press on Sunday, she disavowed Trumps lie that Joe Biden stole the 2020 election but also claimed there were electoral problems in battleground states.

Protests from on-air talent and an NBC union group also concerned McDaniels combative relations with the press in seven years as RNC chair, a period coinciding with Trumps takeover of the Republican party. On Tuesday evening McDaniel was gone  giving her a four-day NBC career, not the two claimed by Trump.

Cesar Conde, chair of NBCUniversal News, told staff: No organisation, particularly a newsroom, can succeed unless it is cohesive and aligned. Over the last few days, it has become clear that this appointment undermines that goal.

Trump said: These Radical Left Lunatics are CRAZY, and the top people at NBC ARE WEAK. They were BROKEN and EMBARRASSED by LOW RATINGS, HIGHLY OVERPAID, TALENT. BRING BACK FREE AND FAIR PRESS.

Other rightwingers, and media figures, cried foul too.

Hugh Hewitt, a talkshow host, told Fox News: I have never seen anything this brutal since I got started in media in 1990.

Ronna is going to sue everyone who defamed her, for breach of contract, for intentional infliction of mental distress. They are going to sue for the destruction of her business opportunities that come from being on TV. I think they made a terrible decision, and they allowed the MSNBC bleed to take over their network.

On NewsNation, the former Fox News correspondent Geraldo Rivera accused the MSNBC anchor Rachel Maddow of malignant wokeism, saying: God did not anoint her the arbiter of who was appropriate for her network to hire or what their point of view is.

Liberal retorts concerned the chief issue cited by Maddow, Chuck Todd, Jen Psaki, Joy Reid, Nicole Wallace and other hosts: McDaniels support for Trumps election subversion, including direct involvement in his attempt to nullify Bidens win in Michigan.

Ronna McDaniels desperate attempt to whitewash her record as an election-denying Maga enabler was an insult to independent journalism and to any American who values the truth, Alex Floyd, a spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee, said in a statement.

Fortunately, much like her and Donald Trumps conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election, she failed. Its embarrassing that anyone would try to give McDaniel and her lies a soapbox after she spent years demonstrating such a blatant disregard for the truth, not to mention our entire democratic system. Proven liars who put loyalty to a political demagogue over our democracy have no place in politics  or in the media.

McDaniel did not comment. Politico reported that she was considering legal options and expected to be paid in full for her reported $600,000 two-year deal, which would in effect net her $500 a second for her Meet the Press interview.

A person close to McDaniel was quoted as saying: The part that pisses me off most about this is not necessarily that [NBC executives] folded: its [that] they allowed their talent to drag Ronna through the mud and make it seem like they were innocent bystanders.

For NBC executives, the pain may not be over. Though Semafor reported a senior Republican aide as saying No one really cares about Ronna, her firing has handed her party a potent campaign issue.

Semafor also reported anger among NBC staffers.

Political reporters here didnt take part in the backlash, nor did they get to give input on the hire, an unnamed journalist was quoted as saying. But theyll be the ones who have to pick up the pieces with sources dismayed with the organisation.

 This article was corrected on 27 March 2024. A quotation from Geraldo Rivera had been wrongly attributed to Chris Cuomo
A project which will bring enough clean Scottish electricity to England to power around two million homes has been given the go-ahead from Ofgem for a 3.4 billion funding package.

The high voltage power cable  billed as an electricity superhighway  will connect Peterhead in Aberdeenshire to Drax in North Yorkshire when it is completed in 2029.

It is part of the efforts needed to ensure that not only are wind farms built but they are also connected to the towns and cities which need their electricity.

At the moment, what could be described as congestion on the grid means that wind farms that could be producing energy because it is windy have to shut down because there is not enough capacity to carry their power to places where it could be used.

Because of the way that contracts with wind farms work, they are paid when they are asked to shut down because of such congestion.

So far in March, payments to wind farms that have been asked to shut down have totalled nearly 50 million, according to the UK Wind Curtailment Monitor, an online tool.

The new 500-kilometre cable will help reduce the time that wind farms have to shut down even when they can produce.

It is the second such project to win approval from Ofgem under a new fast-track programme designed to help the UK connect all the wind farms it plans to build over the years to come.

It follows approval for a 2 billion cable between East Lothian and County Durham, which was granted earlier this month.

There are 26 projects identified as critical if the UK is to meet the Governments target of having 50 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030.

If all of these are built by their optimal delivery dates, Ofgem expects consumers to benefit to the tune of 2.1 billion, in part because of the money saved by not having to pay wind farms to stand idle.

The 2 gigawatt cable approved on Wednesday will run mainly on the bottom of the North Sea, but around 70 kilometres of it will be buried underground.

A report from the Electricity Systems Operator, which runs the grid, last week claimed that 58 billion of additional grid investments would be needed in the first half of the 2030s.

It warned that while offshore and underground cables are less likely to run into local opposition from people worried their views will be ruined, they are considerably more expensive than the alternative.

Want to know more about the work we're doing with @NationalGridESO to deliver a faster electricity connections process? Our Deputy Director of Energy Systems Management & Security, Jack Presley Abbott outlines how we take on the challenge here  https://t.co/3f5Kav0RVL pic.twitter.com/aJXPs8JEM0  Ofgem (@ofgem) March 25, 2024

Ofgem said that it had scrutinised the plans for the new cable closely and had forced the developers to cut 67 million from their costs. That cut would not impact the project delivery or quality, the regulator said.

This will save money for customers in the long run. Projects such as this are paid for initially by the developers but they recoup the cost from energy bills for businesses and households across the country.

Just because weve streamlined the approval process doesnt mean were handing developers blank cheques, said Ofgems director of major projects Rebecca Barnett.

She said that the framework Ofgem uses helps ensure consumers are protected from unnecessary costs and we make budget adjustments where we dont see maximum efficiency and benefit for consumers.

Ms Barnett added: To ensure we meet future energy demand and achieve Government net zero targets we must speed up the expansion of the high voltage electricity network which connects consumers to homegrown energy.
The South Coast Humane Society out of Oregon shared a wonderful story about a little puppy that was rescued from a house fire after a house burned to the ground. This brave little puppy has got a pretty wonderful future to look forward to, thanks to a firefighter who adopted him.

There are some very graphic images included in the post. Even though this puppy is doing fine now thanks to the wonderful people at The Humane Society some of these photos are very hard to look at.

The little dog suffered a lot of burns all over his body and the shelter shared that It was lots of intensive care, multiple cold baths, applying medicated, salve, wound management and skin removal, and lots of love!

Related: Firefighter Adopts Cat Who Tried To 'Help' During Hazmat Incident

The Facebook post explains, "The fire marshal knew that there was someone out there that would love this puppy, and that he would bring true meaning to what happened to him. She got a hold of her friend in Coos Bay who has a fire fighter and they fell in love. Smoky went home this weekend. He will be trained to go out and be an advocate, for the stop, drop, and roll presentations in the school districts."

What a wonderful happy ending and how awesome he has a future as a therapy dog teaching kids about fire safety.

Fire Safety Tips For Pets

No one ever wants to think about something horrible like a house fire happening to their family, but the reality is every 24 seconds, a fire department responds to a fire somewhere in the United States. That's about 358,300 home-based fires every year.

One of the most important things you can do to keep your pets safe if an accident like this should occur is to have them microchipped. If a disaster happens and your pets escape if they are microchipped they have a much better chance of being returned to your family. Also it helps to make sure your pets wear collars with up-to-date identification tags, including your contact information.

Just like with your human family, regularly practice fire drills with your pets so they become familiar with what will happen if a fire should occur. Use treats and positive reinforcement to make it a positive experience.

Keep a small carrier if you have a cat and a separate leash for your dog along with a go-bag filled with pets supplies, vet records, and any medications your pet takes in a secure area. This bag is only to be used in case of emergencies.

Display pet alert stickers on windows or doors to alert firefighters to the presence of pets inside your home. These stickers should indicate the number and type of pets in your household. You can find these either on Amazon or through the ASPCA where you can order a pack for free.

If you would like to learn about volunteer opportunities, to make a donation or see other adoptable animals, you can visit the website for the South Coast Humane Society here.

Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.
At the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo, U.S. Customs and Border Protection says its officers seized 53 pounds of cocaine  worth over $703,000  from a vehicle driven by a Mexican woman who was attempting to enter Texas. Courtesy/Google Maps

Federal authorities say they seized over $1 million of fentanyl and cocaine Sunday during two vehicle searches at international bridges along the Mexican border.

At the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo, U.S. Customs and Border Protection says its officers seized 53 pounds of cocaine  worth over $703,000  from a vehicle driven by a Mexican woman who was attempting to enter Texas.

At the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge in the Rio Grande Valley, CBP says its officers seized 19 pounds of fentanyl  worth $448,000  from a vehicle driven by a Houston woman who was attempting to enter Texas with a male passenger, also from Houston.

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In both cases, authorities referred the vehicles to secondary inspection, where drug-detection dogs alerted officers who then searched the vehicles and found the drugs within.
A hacker group is in possession of at least a small number of patients data following a cyber attack, NHS Dumfries and Galloway has said.

Reports emerged on Wednesday of a post by the group INC Ransom on its dark web blog, alleging it has three terabytes of data from NHS Scotland  although the Scottish Government said the incident has been contained to the one health board.

The post included a proof pack of some of the data, which has been confirmed by the board to be genuine.

In a statement posted to the health boards website, its chief executive Jeff Ace said: We absolutely deplore the release of confidential patient data as part of this criminal act.

This information has been released by hackers to evidence that this is in their possession.

We are continuing to work with Police Scotland, the National Cyber Security Centre, the Scottish Government, and other agencies in response to this developing situation.

Patients whose data has been leaked will be contacted by the board, he said, while patient-facing services will continue as normal.

The hack has had no impact on patient services (PA)

Mr Ace said: NHS Dumfries and Galloway is very acutely aware of the potential impact of this development on the patients whose data has been published, and the general anxiety which might result within our patient population.

The board was hit by the cyber attack earlier this month, which it said at the time had put a significant amount of data at risk, but it had little impact on services for patients.

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: Police Scotland inquiries are continuing into a cyber attack on NHS Dumfries & Galloway.

A spokesman for the National Cyber Security Centre said: We are working with law enforcement, NHS Scotland and the Scottish Government to fully understand the impact of an incident.

A spokeswoman for the Scottish Government said: We are aware of some data published on the web that is linked to the recent cyber attack on NHS Dumfries and Galloway.

This incident remains contained to NHS Dumfries and Galloway and there have been no further incidents across NHS Scotland as a whole.

The Scottish Government is working with the health board, Police Scotland and other agencies, including the National Crime Agency and National Cyber Security Centre, to assess the level of this breach and the possible implications for individuals concerned.

The Scottish Government is continuing to provide support to NHS Dumfries and Galloway as they deal with this ongoing situation. This remains an ongoing police investigation.
Poor access to GPs and long waits for hospital treatment have led to public satisfaction with the NHS hitting the lowest level on record.

Fewer than one in four (24%) people were satisfied with the health service in 2023, down five percentage points on the previous year and the lowest level since records began in 1983, according to findings from the British Social Attitudes poll.

The study, of 3,374 people in England, Wales and Scotland, is seen as the gold-standard test of how people feel about the NHS.

While satisfaction with the NHS peaked in 2010, when 70% of people were satisfied with the health service, it has since fallen.

And since 2020, satisfaction has fallen by 29 percentage points.

However, support for the founding principles of the NHS remains high, with 91% believing the NHS should be free of charge when people need to use it, 82% agreeing it should be primarily funded through taxes (82%) and 82% saying the NHS should be available to everyone.

Findings from the poll showed:

 52% of people were dissatisfied with the NHS, the highest proportion since the survey began.

 The main reasons for dissatisfaction are waiting times for GP and hospital appointments (71%), followed by staff shortages (54%) and the Government not spending enough money on the NHS (47%).

The survey shows support for the founding principles of the NHS remains high, with 91% believing the NHS should be free of charge when people need to use it (Peter Byrne/PA)

 A report on the poll found: A decade of squeezed funding and chronic workforce shortages followed by a global pandemic has left the NHS in a continual state of crisis.

 In a marked change, Conservative supporters reported only marginally higher levels of satisfaction with the NHS than Labour supporters in 2023 (29% versus 24%). Levels of dissatisfaction were similar across supporters of both parties.

 The survey found that 34% of people were satisfied with GP services in 2023, the lowest level of satisfaction recorded since the survey began. Some 41% were dissatisfied. Since 2019, satisfaction with GP services has fallen by 34 percentage points.

 There were also problems with dentistry, with a record low satisfaction level of 24% and a record high dissatisfaction of 48%.

 Satisfaction with both inpatient and outpatient hospital services remain at record low levels.

 When asked what the most important priorities for the NHS should be, the top two were making it easier to get a GP appointment (52%) and increasing the number of staff in the NHS (51%). Improving waiting times for planned operations and in A&E were chosen by 47% and 45% of people respectively.

(PA Graphics)

 Public satisfaction with social care has fallen to 13%, the lowest level since the survey began.

The Kings Fund and the Nuffield Trust sponsor the health and care questions in the poll, which is carried out by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen).

Their analysis report said: Despite record lows in satisfaction, the public remains overwhelmingly behind the principles of the NHS.

The last few years have seen large falls in satisfaction but support for the founding principles behind the NHS  free at the point of use, available to everyone, and primarily funded through taxes  has remained constant.

Changing the model of the NHS is not something the public wants  they just want the model they have got to work.

Dan Wellings, senior fellow at the Kings Fund, told a briefing the results are bleak, but should not be surprising after a year of strikes, scandals and sustained long waits for care.

Shadow health secretary Wes Streeting said the NHS had never been in a worse state after 14 years of Conservative neglect (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

He added: With the health service increasingly unable to meet the expectations and needs of those who rely on it, public satisfaction with the NHS is now in uncharted territory.

Ahead of the upcoming general election, political leaders should take note of just how far satisfaction with this celebrated public institution has fallen.

When it comes to funding and priorities, 84% of people polled said they thought the NHS had a major or severe funding problem.

Regarding Government priorities and NHS spending, 48% of people thought ministers should increase taxes and spend more on the NHS, 42% chose keep taxes and spending the same, and 6% chose reduce taxes and spend less on the NHS.

People with the most monthly income were more likely to choose increase taxes and spend more on the NHS.

Shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting, said: After 14 years of Conservative neglect, the NHS has never been in a worse state.

(PA Graphics)



Fewer than one in every four people say they are getting a good service, and who can blame them?

Patients are waiting 18 months for an operation, more than a month for GP appointments, and NHS dentistry barely exists anymore. The longer the Conservatives are in office, the longer patients wait.

Dr Victoria Tzortziou-Brown, vice chair of the Royal College of GPs, said: It is always distressing and disheartening to see patient satisfaction with general practice, and the NHS more widely, continue to fall.

We know how much our patients value the care and services GPs and our teams offer, and we share their frustration when they struggle to secure timely appointments.

Unfortunately, we simply do not have enough GPs to keep up with the increasing need for our care.

Hard-working GPs and our teams are being stretched to breaking point. We delivered almost 32.5 million appointments in January  4.7 million more than in January 2019  all with 3% fewer fully-qualified, full-time equivalent GPs. We cant keep doing more with less.

Professor Pat Cullen, Royal College of Nursing general secretary, added: Bringing down waiting times and improving care requires investment in nursing to improve pay and conditions and stabilise the workforce. Any party wanting to be in Downing Street in a year must demonstrate clear intent.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: We are fully committed to a faster, simpler and fairer NHS, free at the point of need. Thats why we are providing the NHS with record funding of nearly 165 billion a year by the end of this Parliament, an increase of 13% in real terms compared to 2019.

We are making good progress in cutting waiting lists in England, which is one of the Prime Ministers top priorities. Despite winter pressures and the impact of industrial action, overall NHS waiting lists have decreased for the fourth month in a row and weve delivered on our commitment to provide an extra 50 million GP appointments months ahead of schedule.
Rare coastal lichens, wildflowers and butterflies are being given a helping hand through the conservation and creation of micro-habitats across a landscape in Cornwall, the National Trust said.

The project aims to help wildlife recover across the entire 2,400 hectare (5,900 acre) Lizard National Nature Reserve, with many Lizard specialities found nowhere else in the UK.

The 350,000 project, funded by government agency Natural England, is focusing on conservation of micro-habitats on cliffs, bare rocks, in ditches, pools and tracks, where tiny lichens, liverworts and plants can be found.

Wild asparagus is one of the species targeted for help in the project (Ross Hoddinott/National Trust/PA)

Work in the reserve, where unique wildlife is found on semi-natural heathlands and grasslands and along the coastline, is targeting the recovery of 15 key species including rare, crusty lichens, wild asparagus, twin-headed clover and grayling butterflies.

Conservationists warn that although the Lizard is one of the most wildlife-rich places in the country, many species seem to be in decline or even facing extinction.

Species face the impacts of climate change, invasive species such as Hottentot fig which crowds out wild asparagus, and pollution, the National Trust said.

The charity is undertaking work including hand-clearing ivy from the serpentine rock of the Lizard  which is an important habitat for lichens  scrub clearance, digging ponds and creating scrapes for plants that need bare disturbed ground to germinate.

A grayling butterfly rests on bell heather (Ian Ward/National Trust/PA)

Controlled heathland burning and the cutting of firebreaks aims to boost plants such as bristle bent and sheeps fescue that grayling butterfly caterpillars feed on.

The firebreaks will also protect isolated species from the affects of wildfires, which are on the rise as the climate warms, the National Trust said.

Pony and cattle grazing will also help create a mosaic of different heathland habitats for wildlife.

Seth Jackson, National Trust project manager, said a 2020 review suggested 40% of the most important plant species appeared to be in decline, and many such as twin-headed clover and dwarf rush had become fragmented and lost from up to 50 surveyed sites in just 40 years.

The most important and urgent task is to expand wild populations, encourage natural recolonisation and cushion the expected impacts of climate change, he said.

Working closely with tenants, graziers and the local community will ensure a joined-up and long-term sustainable approach to habitat management, along with a programme of monitoring and surveys to improve the understanding of Lizard flora and fauna.

Here on the Lizard, despite the wonderful landscape and the rich biodiversity it supports, we are not immune to the pressures that climate warming and habitat change bring, and many rare species are struggling.

The funding will help protect species and microhabitats, and link the whole landscape together, he said.

Highland cattle graze at the Lizard, Cornwall (Seth Jackson/National Trust/PA)

Karen Shelley-Jones, Natural England species recovery programme manager, said: We are delighted to be working with the National Trust on this project which epitomises what our species recovery programme is all about  delivering targeted bespoke action to reduce the risk of extinction for some of our most threatened and often overlooked species.

Andrew Byfield, technical adviser to the National Trust, added: The Lizard is one of the most exciting lowland coastal landscapes in the county, with a great many nationally rare and threatened species.

By addressing the fate of these threatened plants and animals that together make this place so special, the project is also protecting the whole landscape, and also supporting the more common ones.
Rufus Sewell has said he wanted to show the light and dark when portraying the Duke of York in a forthcoming drama based on his explosive Newsnight interview.

The Holiday actor stars alongside Gillian Anderson, who plays journalist Emily Maitlis in the new Netflix series Scoop.

The series, which premieres on April 5, documents the high-stakes negotiations with Buckingham Palace through to the BBCs headline-making interview with Andrew about his relationship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

'Do you feel a little bit of pity for him?' @richardm56 'My responsibility to the film and to any human that you're playing is to show the light and the dark.' Richard asks Rufus Sewell after playing Prince Andrew in a new Netflix drama. pic.twitter.com/tcvPOEc96q  Good Morning Britain (@GMB) March 27, 2024

Discussing on Good Morning Britain on Wednesday whether he feels any pity for the duke, Sewell said: Its one of the reasons I was so hesitant about taking it (the role)  because I dont want to be jumping on some bandwagon.

I think its so important to remember whatever someone is going through, that, however high up or low down they are, these are humans and that people are a product of their circumstance.

For me, one of the concerns was wanting to do a truthful representation of him, which included him at his best as well as his worst, because people are a mixed bag.

When I watched the interview, I was always very conscious of watching footage of him when he was younger or even in more recent times when he was with people

When you watch him in this film, people in his camp say Hes great with people and you can see evidence that thats true.

I think my responsibility to the film, and any human that youre playing, is to show the light and dark, and we all have both.

Following the Newsnight broadcast in November 2019 and the furore over Andrews friendship with Epstein, the duke stepped down from public life.

A trailer of the new series shows the moment the interview took place as well as the aftermath.

Inspired by Prince Andrews infamous Newsnight interview comes a new film starring Gillian Anderson, Keeley Hawes, Billie Piper and Rufus Sewell. Scoop premieres April 5. pic.twitter.com/mEsbQhbKnb  Netflix (@netflix) March 18, 2024

Reflecting on the duke reportedly telling Maitlis that he felt the interview went rather well, Sewell noted that he feels Andrew would not have been used to people not kowtowing to him.

He said: When I say that people are a product of their surroundings and their upbringing, this is someone who people have not been able to tell him the truth in the way that we might be used to from a time when he was very young, and its very easy to think that youre better at things than you are, because the idea of yourself is very much bound in how people are with you.

And what he found himself in was a situation where someone was not kowtowing to him.

Emily Maitlis was not being rude but she was treating him like any other person and what he thought was his personal magic, in that moment, failed him.

You can see him gasping for air at some points and I dont think that part of it is his fault, he is a product of his environment.

And it is possible for guilt to be mixed with a sense of victimisation and I think its easy for people to go through things and be guilty for something and end up feeling like a victim.

The actor also said he was flattered to be offered the role but admitted he did hesitate over accepting it due to the status of the character.

To ensure he was prepared to take on the part, he said he obsessively watched the infamous interview to try to understand Andrews reasoning and justification for his answers.

 Scoop will launch on Netflix on April 5.
Taylor Swifts father will not face police charges over accusations he punched a photographer in Australia.

Photographer Ben McDonald told police that Scott Swift struck him in the face at Neutral Bay Wharf in Sydney on February 27, hours after his pop star daughters Australian tour had ended.

Following a month-long investigation, New South Wales police have confirmed no further action would be taken.

A statement given to the PA news agency said: Officers attached to North Shore Police Area Command have conducted an investigation following a report of an assault at Neutral Bay Wharf about 2.30am on Tuesday, February 27.

No further police action.

The alleged confrontation happened after Mr Swift and his daughter left a yacht, in the hours after the final of her four Eras Tour dates in Sydney.

At the time, Taylor Swifts representative accused members of the media of behaving aggressively towards the megastar during the interaction.

Veteran photographer Mr McDonald described the incident at the time as a punch in the chops that didnt require medical assistance.
Three men accidentally cleared of killing a man due to a jury forewomans mistake have lost a High Court bid to challenge their ongoing detention in prison.

In January, brothers Paul and Matthew Yusuff and their friend Moussa Traore were initially unanimously acquitted by jurors of offences relating to the fatal stabbing of 32-year-old Adrian Keise outside Waterloo station in London.

Within minutes of the not guilty verdicts being delivered, the jury at the Old Bailey was reconvened after a judge received a note indicating the jurors had not all agreed on their decisions.

When the jury forewoman was asked by Judge Charles Gratwicke if she had made a mistake when she said the jurys verdicts were unanimous, she replied: Yes.

The jurors were sent out to restart their deliberations, and, while they later found Paul Yusuff not guilty of possessing a blade or point, they were unable to reach verdicts on the other counts and were discharged again.

The three men, who denied all the charges against them, sought to challenge their ongoing detention at HMP Belmarsh pending a planned retrial in December, arguing that the first not guilty verdicts were valid and should not have been reopened.

In a 20-page written ruling on Wednesday, three judges rejected their case, concluding that the jury forewoman had suffered a form of stage fright amid the stressful environment of court proceedings.

Dame Victoria Sharp, who heard the challenge alongside Mr Justice Holgate and Mr Justice Hilliard, said the mens continuing detention pending their retrial is lawful.

Paul Yusuff, 21, and Matthew Yusuff, 23, had faced charges of murder and were also charged with an alternative count of manslaughter along with Traore, 24.

Lawyers for the trio previously argued that the ongoing detention of the trio from south London is illegal because proceedings became a nullity after the jury was discharged following the initial verdicts.

Kerim Faud KC, for Paul Yusuff, said that when the jurors were first let go they were outside the controlled and transparent environment of the courtroom, were no longer under oath, and had ample time in which they could have discussed the case among themselves or with others outside, including via phone messages.

He said it is equally likely there was a change of mind within the 17 minutes before the alleged mistake was raised.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said the error came after a jury misunderstanding and was communicated very quickly to the judge who properly exercised his discretion to allow rectification of the jurys mistake.

CPS lawyers said it could not be claimed that the jury forewoman saying she made a mistake was somehow untrue or inaccurate.

Dame Victoria said that shortly before the verdicts were given the jury had sent a note indicating that they were not unanimous.

In this case, it is plain from what happened that the forewoman had made a mistake in saying that the jury had reached unanimous verdicts, the judge said.

She added: Put simply, the jury identified the mistake that had been made by their forewoman promptly; the mistake they identified was consistent with their first note to the judge  that they had not reached unanimous verdicts on any count; and the matter was then sensibly and expeditiously sorted out by the judge.

It cannot be said, in those circumstances, either that the judge made any jurisdictional error of such gravity as to deprive him of the jurisdiction to accept the jurys correction of the verdicts returned, or that he erred in the exercise of his discretion.
Heavy rain and strong winds could cause travel chaos and pose a risk to life in the run-up to the Easter weekend, forecasters have said.

The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for rain and strong winds over coming days across parts of Northern Ireland and the south of England.

Forecasters have warned that heavy rain could impact travel and infrastructure in the east of Northern Ireland on Wednesday and Thursday, with up to 15mm-20mm of rainfall in some areas.

 Yellow weather warning issued  Rain across eastern parts of Northern Ireland Thursday 0700  1700 Latest info  https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs Stay #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/UEbNvNVT1q  Met Office (@metoffice) March 27, 2024

A yellow warning for strong winds with gusts of up to 70mph was also in place on Thursday for most of the south coast of England, from East Sussex to Cornwall.

The Met Office has warned there is a small chance of injuries and risk to life as a result of the strong winds and large waves, as well as the possibility of hail and thunder.

For those travelling over the bank holiday weekend, the RAC have advised drivers to be on their guard regarding the changing road conditions.

 Yellow weather warning issued  Strong winds across parts of southern England Thursday 0700  1800 Latest info  https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs Stay #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/pwf9Vp1Lbv  Met Office (@metoffice) March 27, 2024

Residents of the affected areas should expect longer journey times, potential power cuts and impacts on mobile phone coverage.

Looking further ahead, the Met Office said the forecast for the Easter weekend remained unsettled but bright and breezy, with temperatures of up to 15C in west London and 14C in Manchester on Sunday, which was typical for this time of year.

RAC Breakdown spokesman Rod Dennis said: With plenty of classic early spring weather over the Easter bank holiday weekend, drivers getting away will definitely need to be on their guard and ready to cope with rapidly changing road conditions.

Slowing down in the heaviest of downpours on Good Friday and Easter Saturday is a must as stopping distances will be far greater.

Met Office spokesman Grahame Madge said: Good Friday sees low-pressure continuing to feed showers and longer spells of rain across the UK, although drier spells will develop in the east.

Saturday continues this pattern, but for many, Easter Sunday is likely to be the best day of the weekend before conditions turn more unsettled again on Easter Monday.

Following the forecast should enable everyone to experience the best the weekend has to offer, he added.
They might look like dogs, but make no mistake  coyotes aren't here to play fetch and sleep at the foot of your bed. Nope, these canines can be downright dangerous to humans and even dogs if you catch them on the wrong day. One woman online was freaked out when she realized that her dogs had been playing with outside with a full-grown coyote.

Emily Mezzapelli of Canada was worried when she realized that there was another animal out there with her precious pups.

The video she shared on her page shows her three dogs starring out the glass door leading to the backyard. Stalking back and forth was the largest animal we've ever seen  a coyote. Although Messapelli wasn't sure herself and called it a wolf in the clip.

Related: Rescue Coyote's Loyalty to Dog Who Saved Him Is a Thing of Beauty

"This is not good," she said from behind the camera. All three dogs could be heard growling as they stared at the creature and it stared back at them. "It is big. So they were just out there playing with this wolf and the wolf took the little piggy, their toy piggy," she added.

Thank goodness she managed to get her dogs away from coyote. This would surely scare any dog owner if they were in her shoes.

"They arent playing - its luring. Wolves and coyotes will do this," one person in the comments section wrote. "Shine your flashlight into the woods see how many eyes are just inside the tree line," someone else suggested. "Your dogs dont know stranger danger," a third person added.

Luring Is a Myth

Many people wrote in to tell the woman that the coyote was "luring" her dogs  meaning they're pretending to play with the dogs so that they can "lure" the dog back to its pack where the pack will attack. But that's actually more of an urban legend.

Speaking with 12 News in 2019, Amy Burnett with the Arizona Game and Fish Department explained that while coyotes are smart and have been known to attack pets, but they simply aren't as crafty as we'd like to think. Burnett told the news outlet that if your dog finds itself in front of a pack of coyotes, it will most likely not be premeditated.

In fact, coyotes only use luring as a tactic to get predators away from their own young, Naturalist Janet Kessler was cited as having said by the news outlet. The myth comes from the fact that coyotes tend to travel in packs. But more likely than not, dogs are the ones who chase after these large creatures. The coyote will then try to lose the dog by hiding or by wearing it out. If the coyote has family members or members of the pack nearby, those coyotes will come help the coyote out.

That being said, it's still best to keep your dog and coyotes away from each other. No need to test and see if "luring" really is a myth.

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Humza Yousaf has been described as a weak leader whose first year was nothing short of a disaster, as opposition leaders made a pitch to voters on the anniversary of his election as SNP leader.

The First Minister narrowly defeated rival Kate Forbes in his run for the top job on March 27 last year, beginning a turbulent 12 months in charge.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar pointed to the SNPs electoral troubles in the past year, particularly the loss of the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election to Labour and the defection of two elected members  Ash Regan MSP to the Alba Party and MP Lisa Cameron to the Conservatives  as well as MP Angus MacNeil leaving the party.

Mr Sarwar also attacked the First Ministers efforts to tackle child poverty and drug deaths.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar accused Mr Yousaf of being weak (Jane Barlow/PA)

Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross highlighted more than 100 instances of what he claimed were failures during Mr Yousafs time in office, including missing A&E waiting times targets, the publication of nine new papers in the independence prospectus series, and the countrys economy.

Mr Ross added that voters will have the chance to pass judgment on the First Ministers dire reign at the upcoming general election.

Mr Sarwar said: After a year in post, it is clear to see that Humza Yousaf is a weak leader who is out of his depth and leading a chaotic and divided Government that is not delivering for Scotland.

Every sector of our public services is now weaker thanks to Humza Yousafs SNP.

Not only is it clear to the people of Scotland that Humza Yousaf has no vision for the future  even his own former cabinet colleagues are saying so in public.

This is a record of shame and failure.

Douglas Ross hit out at the First Ministers first year in charge (Michal Wachucik/PA)

With Humza Yousaf scrambling for a new election strategy on a weekly basis, it is no surprise that the people of Scotland are now looking for change.

We need change here in Scotland and across the UK, and only Scottish Labour can deliver it.

Mr Ross said: Humza Yousafs first year as SNP leader has been nothing short of a disaster for him, his party and  most importantly  the people of Scotland.

Its a tale of independence obsession, abject failures and broken promises; of a First Minister out of his depth and unable to control his feuding, scandal-ridden party.

Humza Yousaf has ignored the real priorities of Scots  fixing our ailing public services and growing the economy  and instead doubled down on the SNPs fixation with breaking up the UK, while cosying up to the anti-growth Greens.

This detailed and damning dossier lays bare his appalling record, which includes every A&E target being missed, Scotlands economy shrinking, rising levels of violent and sexual crimes, unacceptable train cancellations at SNP-run ScotRail, and public cash being squandered on independence propaganda papers.

Later this year voters will get the chance to cast their verdict on his and the SNPs dire reign. In swathes of seats across Scotland they know that only the Scottish Conservatives can beat the SNP and get the focus back to the issues that matter to them.

A spokesman for the First Minister said: Opposition parties will oppose  its their job, and the job given to them by the electorate for the past 17 years and counting.

The most recent polling evidence is that the SNP remains ahead of the opposition on who people trust on health, education, the economy, and cost of living.

The First Minister is governing on the basis of clear values  prioritising investment in public services, helping people with the cost-of-living crisis by freezing council tax, supporting business opportunities in Scotland, and showing leadership on major issues, such as consistently calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
ATLANTA  A panel of judges heard arguments Wednesday from attorneys seeking to overturn the hate crime conviction of three white men who used pickup trucks to chase Ahmaud Arbery through a subdivision in Georgia in 2020 before one of them killed the Black man with a shotgun. Gregory McMichael; his son, Travis McMichael, and their neighbor, William Roddie Bryan, were found guilty of murder in a Georgia state court in November 2021. They were sentenced to life in prison. After a federal trial, they were found guilty of hate crimes and other charges in February 2022. They did not appear in court Wednesday.

From left, Greg McMichael, Travis McMichael and William

The hate crimes trial centered on the three mens racial bias  a motive that prosecutors in the state case largely avoided. Arberys family and civil rights leaders have likened his death to a modern-day lynching. His death, along with the killings of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd at the hands of police in 2020, ignited furor over the shooting deaths of Black people and sparked international protests against racial injustice.

In a legal brief filed ahead of Wednesday's arguments, prosecutors said: As to why defendants chased, trapped, and ultimately killed Arbery, the evidence at trial showed that they held longstanding hate and prejudice toward Black people, while also supporting vigilante justice.

The three mens attorneys argue that evidence of past racist comments they made didnt prove a racist intent to harm.

The attorneys also argued that the hate crime conviction should be thrown out because Arbery was not killed on a public street, which they said is required for the defendants to be found guilty under federal law.

Travis McMichaels appeals attorney Amy Lee Copeland said Wednesday before the judges from the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, and in an earlier legal brief, that prosecutors had not proven that the streets of the Satilla Shores neighborhood where Arbery was killed were public roads, as the mens indictment charged.

Judge Elizabeth Branch responded that a county official in Glynn County, where the neighborhood is, testified that the streets in Satilla Shores are officially designated public streets.

A.J. Balbo, Gregory McMichaels attorney, said his client pursued Arbery because he had seen Arbery on a security camera video, not simply because he was Black. Balbo conceded that Gregory McMichaels actions displayed a hypervigilantism. Before he was killed, Arbery was recorded on security camera videos entering a neighboring home under construction on multiple occasions. None of the videos showed him stealing.

Bryans attorney, Pete Theodocion, challenged the attempted kidnapping charge that all three men were convicted of. The government, he said, had to prove that the defendants attempted to confine Arbery against his will and hold him for a benefit.

You have to be acting out of a want of a personal benefit, he said, as he argued that the three men went after Arbery to protect the community from someone they believed had committed a crime.

The benefit here I think the government alleged was vigilantism, the jury apparently decided that that among other things was the case, Judge Britt Grant responded.

Branch told Theodocion that she was not sure why a benefit that extends to the community would not also include the defendants, as they were members of the community.

Prosecutor Brant Levine urged the judges to uphold the hate crime convictions.

Id like to begin by focusing on what this case is really about, that Mr. Arbery would be alive today had he not been a Black man running on the streets of Satilla Shores, he said.

Levine said that there is sufficient evidence to support each guilty verdict and that the defendants would not have acted criminally had they merely questioned Arbery if they believed he looked suspicious in their neighborhood.

Had the McMichaels driven up to Ahmaud and said, Excuse me, can we talk to you about what you were doing in that house? we wouldnt be here today, Levine said. Were here today because when they went up to Ahmaud, they pulled out their guns, they yelled at him to get on the ground and they chased him. Roddie Bryan blocked his exit from the neighborhood, so he couldnt leave until, in Greg McMichaels words, they trapped him like a rat.

He added: Why did they take those extreme measures? Why did they terrorize Ahmaud for nearly five minutes?

Levine also argued that prosecutors had proven that Arbery was killed on public roads.

About three dozen people, including members of Arberys family and others from the community, attended a rally outside the courthouse to protest the appeal.

This hate crimes conviction is so important because its the first federal hate crimes conviction in the state of Georgia, Gerald Griggs, president of Georgia NAACP, said in an interview after the rally. And so we need to make sure we underscored the reason why people were protesting, the reason why we marched and we voted.

Marcus Arbery thanked those who had supported his family since his sons death. Arberys aunt, Diane Jackson, said the appeal had reignited pain for her family.

I am so hurt still because when we saw what happened at first, we thought this would be over with now, she said. The way they took my nephews life, this has destroyed my family.

On Feb. 23, 2020, Gregory McMichael and Travis McMichael armed themselves and pursued Arbery in a pickup truck after they saw him running through their neighborhood in Brunswick. Bryan joined the chase in a separate pickup truck and recorded cellphone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery in the street.

After the video leaked online, it thrust the case into the national spotlight and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation took over the case from local police. The video drew widespread outrage and raised concerns about why it took law enforcement officials more than two months to make arrests.

The appellate judges did not say when they would rule. If the U.S. appeals court overturns any of their federal convictions, the McMichaels and Bryan would remain in prison.
Brandon Herrera autographs photos of himself for Brandon Holloway and his daughter, Wilder Holloway at a campaign rally at the Angry Elephant. Jessica Phelps/San Antonio Express News Congressman Tony Gonzales, R-San Antonio, speaks to media at a detention area for Migrants in Eagle Pass on December 20, 2023. Jessica Phelps Brandon Herrera autographs photos of himself for Brandon Holloway and his daughter, Wilder Holloway at a campaign rally at the Angry Elephant. Jessica Phelps/San Antonio Express News

Whats up, you sexy YouTube mother-lovers?

Brandon Herrera opens many of his videos the same way: with that catchphrase, in a T-shirt, his hair slicked back, sitting in front of a wall showcasing dozens of guns. The social media personality-turned-San Antonio congressional candidate has more than 3 million YouTube subscribers who tune in to watch his very specific brand of content about firearms, politics and dark humor.

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In one video, Herrera and his buddies crash a gun buyback program in Dallas. In another, he reviews memes about different firearms. Hes made a series of videos testing different guns used in the assassinations of influential political figures, including Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Jr.

In the MLK Jr. video, Herrera tried to mimic the shot that killed the civil rights leader. After twice shooting at a dummy, he walked over to the fake head and said his reenactment was pretty faithful to the shot.

Later in the video, he shot the dummy execution-style as he attempted to make a joke about the FBI allegedly killing its critics. Herrera laughed to himself as the dummys head exploded on the table: This is so (expletive) wrong.

Herrera, also known online as the "AK Guy," is a gun manufacturer, a political neophyte and, according to his social media bio, VERY politically incorrect. Hes also one of the only people now standing between U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales and a third term in Washington.

Gonzales is the only Republican congressional incumbent in Texas facing a primary runoff election May 28, after Herrera and three other GOP challengers siphoned enough votes earlier this month to stop the congressman from winning the nomination outright. Herreras online fame likely had a lot to do with that.

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Herrera has become a symbol of the types of personalities that get traction in modern primaries, especially on the Republican side, where you have a brand, said Casey Burgat, the director of the Legislative Affairs Program at the Graduate School of Political Management at the George Washington University.

If youre loud and vocal and are able to bring some followers, you can gin up a lot of attention, a lot of donors  not even within the district but nationally, which you can then bring to bear as powerful within your own district, Burgat said. We used to say that all politics is local, and now its more that all politics is national.

Its a curious dynamic in one of Texas few congressional districts that could be competitive in the fall. While Gonzales has faced intraparty criticism over the past two years for his votes on guns and same-sex marriage, hes also a key player in the Republican Partys efforts to maintain or expand its slim majority in the U.S. House.

Gonzales came in first place during the March 5 primary with about 45% of the vote, and Herrera came second with 24%. In the weeks since, Herrera has campaigned in San Antonio with U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida; earned the endorsements of two of the other Republicans who ran in the primary; and ramped up his online attacks against Gonzales.

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Meanwhile, the congressman has criticized Herrera and highlighted his many controversial statements  including a recent joke he repeated about veteran suicides and comments he made last year poking fun at one of former President Donald Trumps sons. Gonzales has also focused on Herreras background, as the candidate grew up in North Carolina and moved to San Antonio in 2020.

Since Brandon Herrera lives his entire life online, heres a reality check for him: Brandon Herrera is still registered to vote in North Carolina, he bashed President Trump and mocked his teenage son, he personally attacked Governor Abbott, and he offended veterans all across TX-23 when he literally laughed about veteran suicide, said Evan Albertson, a spokesman for Gonzales campaign. Texans cannot trust this fraud.

Testing guns, and social limits

Herrera, 28, came to San Antonio four years ago, just months after COVID led to lockdowns nationwide. He said he was impressed with Abbotts leadership during the pandemic and enticed by the superb economic environment that Republican leadership has delivered here.

San Antonio has also become a hotspot in recent years for gun influencers and businesses like Black Rifle Coffee Company, which markets itself to Second Amendment supporters.

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Herrera, who grew up in North Carolina, said he was fascinated by guns early in life and started assembling them as a teenager.

He launched his own firearm manufacturing business, which really took off when he was studying pre-law at Campbell University in North Carolina. Herrera dropped out of college after three semesters to focus on his gun business full time, and his online career started gaining traction in 2016.

I am grateful for the opportunity it has afforded me to educate millions of Americans about self-defense, firearm safety and the U.S. Constitution, he said. Its been great for the campaign because so many people in the district already know me and what I stand for.

His YouTube videos at first garnered a few thousand views apiece. He often posted vlogs, or video blogs documenting his life, mixed with educational clips about different kinds of weapons and humorous videos reacting to guns in pop culture.

As the years went on, his production improved, as did his views  though the content largely stayed the same. Nowadays, his videos regularly surpass 1 million views. His most popular clip in the past six months  Testing the RPG-7 On a Human Body  had more than 5 million views.

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When he announced his run for Congress last summer, Herrera uploaded a video assuring his followers that he wouldnt sanitize his humor on the campaign trail. He described himself as libertarian-leaning.

I want to inspire a wave of freedom-loving young Americans to take on local roles, support liberty-minded candidates and effect positive change in this country, Herrera said at the time.

He made offhand comments in later videos that yes, he was running a serious campaign, and for the sake of my country, I hope I win; for the sake of my sanity, I hope I lose.

Herrera has few, if any, financial incentives to run for Congress. He partners with sponsors on YouTube, and the vast majority of his political donations have come from small-dollar donors across the country  likely his online followers, who come to his defense in droves any time Gonzales posts about him on X, formerly known as Twitter.

But Herreras massive online footprint has also at times been detrimental to his campaign. He regularly participates in a podcast that sometimes includes offensive commentary or repeats racist stereotypes. In a recent episode of that podcast, Herrera repeated a joke about veteran suicides: If it makes everyone in the room feel better, I often think about putting a gun in my mouth, he said. So, Im basically an honorary veteran.

In the podcast, Herrera had said hed wanted to make that joke during a recent speech but ultimately decided against it. He added that every veteran Ive ever told that joke to laughed their ass off.

The suicide rate for veterans is 150% higher than those who havent served, according to the U.S Department of Veteran Affairs.

There are entire Reddit threads dedicated to bashing Herrera, and Gonzales has similarly painted his opponent as offensive and unserious. In one Reddit channel where people debate moderate politics, a user noted that while he doesnt like Gonzales, Herrera seems far worse. In another, a poster opined that Herreras nomination would cause Republicans to lose the general election in November.

The 23rd Congressional District, which stretches from San Antonio to El Paso, leans Republican  but it could theoretically be competitive in the fall. Former President Donald Trump won the district by about 7 percentage points in 2020, though Gonzales won reelection in 2022 by 17 points.

Burgat, the legislative affairs expert at George Washington University, said Herreras off-color comments likely helped him win the votes of the most motivated and anti-establishment GOP voters who typically turn out for primaries. The same scandal that may have disqualified a candidate years ago could now be something to tout on the campaign trail, he said.

More than 200 people came out to see Herrera at a recent campaign event with Gaetz, who is also an incendiary figure in the GOP. Herrera said he aligns himself politically with Gaetz and similar Republicans, like Texas Chip Roy and Ohios Jim Jordan.

At the Gaetz event, Herrera made an indecent joke about women: I saw a statistic that last year more fentanyl came across the southern border by weight than would be required to kill the entire population of the planet  or about 26 Austin feminists. Supporters laughed and clapped at his comment.

Burgat said the dynamic between Gonzales and Herrera is one that is repeating itself across Republican primaries nationwide. The GOP has been the victim of nonstop infighting, which he said could ultimately hurt Republicans in November if they select a right-wing candidate in the primary who cant appeal to the general populace.

Tony Gonzales is a perfect example of this where you can have, by and large, very conservative member  at least on his voting record  but take the wrong couple of votes, youll be labeled as one who is not conservative enough, which makes you extremely vulnerable to someone promising to be unflinchingly conservative within a primary, he said.

Its not an unfamiliar attack on Gonzales, who was censured by the Texas GOP last year for voting to codify same-sex marriage rights and to tighten gun-buyer background checks for young adults after the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, which is in his district. The Uvalde shooter bought his assault-style rifle just days after his 18th birthday.

Jeff McManus, the chair of the Bexar County GOP, said Gonzales helped curtail the constitutional right to bear arms with his vote on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.

Tony Gonzales was censured by the Republican Party of Texas for his failure to stand for and protect the values expressed in the Republican Party platform, he said. You dont get censured just because you stub your toe or you broke a little rule. Its because you have failed.

Gonzales has repeatedly defended his vote and said he would vote the same way again, even though he has been a staunch supporter of Second Amendment rights.

As a congressman, its my duty to pass laws that never infringe on the Constitution while protecting the lives of the innocent, Gonzales said ahead of the House vote on the measure in 2022.

But Herrera says that vote is one of many where Gonzales made the wrong decision for his district, and instead of holding local law enforcement leadership accountable for their failure on that day, Rep. Gonzales chose to put the blame on law-abiding gun owners.
With Americans living longer and spending more years in retirement, the nation's changing demographics are "putting the U.S. retirement system under immense strain," according to BlackRock CEO Larry Fink in his annual shareholder letter.

One way to fix it, he suggests, is for Americans to work longer before they head into retirement.

"No one should have to work longer than they want to. But I do think it's a bit crazy that our anchor idea for the right retirement age  65 years old  originates from the time of the Ottoman Empire," Fink wrote in his 2024 letter, which largely focuses on the retirement crisis facing the U.S. and other nations as their populations age.

Fink, who is worth an estimated $1.2 billion, notes that many 65-year-olds in the early 1950s didn't get a chance to retire because many had already passed away. In other words, he writes, more than half of workers who had paid into Social Security never got a penny because they died before they could claim the benefit.

"Today, these demographics have completely unraveled, and this unraveling is obviously a wonderful thing," Fink added. "We should want more people to live more years. But we can't overlook the massive impact on the country's retirement system."

Fink's suggestions about addressing the nation's retirement crisis come amid a debate about the future of Social Security, which will face a funding shortfall in less than a decade. Some Republican lawmakers have proposed raising the retirement age for claiming Social Security benefits, arguing, like Fink, that because Americans are living longer, they should work longer, too.

But that ignores the reality of aging in the workplace, with the AARP finding in a 2022 survey that the majority of workers over 50 say they face ageism at work. And because of ill health or an unexpected job loss, many older Americans stop working before they planned to. In fact, the median age of retirement in the U.S. is 62  even lower than the "traditional" retirement age of 65.

Some policy experts and Democratic lawmakers have proposed alternatives for fixing Social Security without raising the retirement age, as the latter would effectively reduce benefits for millions of Americans. For instance, Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont, wants to lift the income tax cap for Social Security, an idea supported by many retirement experts.

In 2024, any earned income over $168,600 is exempt from the Social Security payroll tax of 12.4%. People who earn $1 million a year effectively stop paying into the program on March 2, according to Rep. John Larson, a Democrat from Connecticut. (Fink's base salary was $1.5 million in 2022, although his total pay package was $25.2 million that year, a regulatory filing shows.)

Fink is right in saying that the retirement system isn't working for most households, noted retirement expert and New School of Research professor Teresa Ghilarducci told CBS MoneyWatch.

But his assessment that people should work longer misses the mark, she added. Many Americans haven't been able to save for their old age, with about 3 in 10 workers age 59 or older having no money put away for retirement.

And those who have been able to save often don't have enough to maintain their standard of living, with the average 401(k) account for people 55 to 64  workers who are approaching retirement  holding $208,000, according to Vanguard. Using the rule of thumb to withdraw 4% of one's retirement savings each year, that would deliver about $8,300 in annual income.

"After a 40-year-old experiment of a voluntary, do-it-yourself-based pension system, half of workers have no easy way to save for retirement," she said. "And in rich nations, why isn't age 65 a good target for most workers to stop working for someone else?"

She added, "Working longer won't get us out of this. Most people don't retire when they want to, anyway."

Vested interest?

To be sure, America's retirement gap, or the gulf between what people need to fund their golden years versus what they've actually saved, isn't new, nor is Social Security's looming funding emergency. Yet Fink's comments are noteworthy because of his status as the head of the world's largest asset manager, with more than $10 trillion in assets, including many retirement accounts.

Of course, Fink has a vested interest in Americans boosting their retirement assets, given that his firm collects fees from those accounts. And in his letter, he also promotes a new target-date fund from BlackRock called LifePath Paycheck, which will roll out in April.

"He's steering the conversation toward BlackRock  and a lot of people who talk about Social Security reform on Wall Street want to privatize it in some manner and make money," Boston University economist Laurence Kotlikoff, an expert on Social Security, told CBS MoneyWatch.

To be sure, Fink also praises public policy success stories for addressing retirement savings, such as Australia's system, which began in the early 1990s and requires employers to put a portion of a worker's income into a fund. Today, Australia has the world's 54th largest population but the 4th largest retirement system, he noted.

"As a nation, we should do everything we can to make retirement investing more automatic for workers," he noted.

Fink also writes that his mother, an English teacher, and his father, a shoe-store owner, were never in the top tax bracket. But, he added, they were able to save enough for a comfortable retirement, with funds that could have lasted until they were 100, although they passed away long before reaching that age.

One reason for their secure retirement, he points out, is that as a state employee his mom could participate in California's state pension system, CalPERS. But access to pensions has halved since 1980, with only about 15% of employees having access to defined benefit plans in 2021 versus 30% four decades ago, according to the Congressional Research Service.

Can boomers fix the problem?

Fink, who was born in 1952, said that his generation has an obligation to help fix the nation's retirement problems. The financial insecurity facing younger Americans, such as millennials and Gen Z, are creating generations of disillusioned, anxious workers, he noted.

"They believe my generation  the baby boomers  have focused on their own financial well-being to the detriment of who comes next. And in the case of retirement, they're right," Fink wrote.

He added, "And before my generation fully disappears from positions of corporate and political leadership, we have an obligation to change that."

Boomer (and older) lawmakers and politicians often don't see eye-to-eye on how to fix the retirement crisis. But failing to fix the issue damages not only the retirements of individual Americans, but the country's collective belief in the future of the U.S., Fink noted.

"We risk becoming a country where people keep their money under the mattress and their dreams bottled up in their bedroom," he noted.

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NASA astronauts Victor Glover, Artemis II pilot, and Christina Hammock Koch, Artemis II mission specialist, participate in a NASA news conference on Aug. 8, 2023, at the agencys Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Credit - NASA/Kim Shiflett

Recently, I applied to become an astronaut. I would like to be able to say that there is a non-zero chance I will be accepted, but sub-zero is more like it. Not a whole lot of people who can actually recall Sputnikwhich, for the record, was launched on Oct. 4, 1957quite make the age cut to climb on top of a rocket. Still, I filled out the nine-page form and sent it in, even if I have no doubt Ill wind up in the cosmic slush pile.

You, however, may have more luck. NASA is hiring; on March 5 it opened its doors to a new class of 12 or so astronauts and will be accepting applications until April 2, though it is considering extending the deadline to accommodate more candidates. The salary is $152,258; the place of employment is the Johnson Space Center in Houstonwith work trips to, you know, space. But its best to prepare yourself for disappointment. NASA hires a new astronaut class every four years or so, and back in 2015, a peak year, there were about 12,000 applicantsa number that could be matched this time around too, says April Jordan, NASAs astronaut hiring manager.

There were certainly some things going on in the world then, like The Martian coming out, says Jordan. The rise of the private space sector and the beginning of NASAs Artemis lunar program could similarly turbocharge things in 2024. Not every one of the applications in 2015 was entirely serious, and things are likely to be the same now. We actually have a fair number of folks who apply just to get the rejection, Jordan says. All the same, untold thousands will apply in earnest, and NASA is making a special effort in this recruitment round to stress that it is becoming ever-more egalitarian, ever-more receptive to astronaut candidates who dont fit the narrow fighter-jock profile.

In 1958, when America went casting about for its first class of seven astronauts, candidates had to meet a range of rigorous standards, including being military test pilots with more than 1,500 hours in the cockpit; possessing a degree in the physical sciences or engineering; standing no more than five feet, eleven inches tall, in order to fit into the tiny Mercury spacecraft, and more. Then too, there were the unspoken criteria: the people selected were all white, all male, all family men.

Those walls have long been coming down, but only slowly: After more than 65 years in the space game, NASA has flown 329 astronauts, 54 of whom have been women. The numbers are even lower for Black Americans, with just 17 making trips to space. Still, progress is accelerating. In 2020, the space agency announced the 18 astronauts it had selected for the Artemis lunar missions it intends to commence next year; nine of the crewmembers are women and 10 are people of color, three are women of color, and two are Hispanic.

More than a decade ago, NASA decided that equity and inclusion would be part of its core values, says Victor Glover, a Naval aviator and Iraq war veteran who was selected in the astronaut class of 2013 and spent six months aboard the International Space Station in 2020 and 2021. He will also be the first Black person to visit the moon when he and the other three members of the Artemis II crew make a circumlunar journey in September 2025. The team also includes Christina Koch, the first woman assigned to a moon mission. [NASAs] decisions have led us to having an astronaut office that looks very much like America," Glover says. "You could reach in and grab any four people, and they would look like our crew.

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NASAs astronaut application is, in many ways, like most job applicationswith sections to list education, work experience, references, and more. Military service is included as well, but it is not the absolute criterion it once was. The astronauts who make it through the current selection process will not just be demographically diverse, but professionally too. Firefighters and other first responders are especially prized by the 21st century NASA. They are people who run into dangerous situations, says Jordan. Former collegiate athletes are also attractive for what Jordan calls their teaming skills. Still, the application leaves no mistake about how particular the talents required for an astronaut gig will be.

The duties of this position require moderate to arduous amounts of physical exertion involving walking, standing, heavy lifting, crouching, crawling and exposure to inclement weather. Are you willing to perform arduous physical activities as part of your duties? reads one part of the form.

Astronaut candidates and astronauts live, work, and train in remote, isolated, small, or confined spaces for prolonged periods of time, reads another. Are you willing to spend extended periods of time in remote, isolated, small or confined spaces?

And then there is the one that can cause a lot of candidacies to come undone: [Astronaut] training requires extensive travelwhere family members are not always able to join. Are you willing to participate in extended travel and periods away from home?

For Glover, who is married and the father of four girls, that question required a lot of thinking. There is this myth of work-life balance, he says. I dont use that term. This job changes your life and your relationships forever. Some astronauts have spouses and kids and some don't, but you still have parents and siblings and a whole life to manage.

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Perhaps the most demanding part of the vetting process is the in-person interview with the NASA selection board, a committee of 10 to 12 people made up mostly of astronauts, as well as senior level NASA officials such as flight directors. One of the requirements for that meeting calls for candidates to write a short, one-page narrative on any topic they choose. For this, Glover took a chance, composing an essay he titled Girls Like Astronauts. The selection panel did not have to get far into what Glover wrote before realizing that the girls he was writing about were his daughters.

When you first see the title its like, Oh, gosh, what is this about? he says. But then I talk about the romance of space and aviation, that its something I get to carry for a while and bring back to my girls. And it just might help them be proud of me.

Glover took another chance when the board asked him about a mistake he had made in his life and what he learned from it. For a pilot hoping to take the next step up from jets to spacecraft, a near-disaster in the cockpit would seem like a topic to avoid, but Glover had had one such hair-raising episode during his Naval service, and he decided to tell the truth. The incident occurred when he was participating in an air show, flying off of the aircraft carrier George Washington near Japan. Most of the maneuvers the pilots flew were scripted, but Glover chose to improvise on one, flying over the water at 95% of the speed of sound, and then rotating to a nose down position before climbing again. The sky was clear except for one cloud, which turned out to be directly in his path, causing him to fly too low.

I realized I could see bubbles in the water very clearly, he says. I just pulled the stick into my lap and I bottomed out at 32 feet above the water.

Glover flew back to the carrier, apologized to the commander for what he had conceded was showboating and promised no such thing would ever occur again. A gunnery officer then invited Glover to take a moment of privacy in his office. He accepted and, when he was alone, cried.

The board isnt just looking for achievers, Glover says. Everyone has messed up in their lives, and its how you overcome it and what you learn about yourself that counts. That bit of candor evidently impressed the selection committeesetting Glover off on a trajectory that, in 18 months, will take him to the moon.

I, almost surely, will not be following. Barely hours after I submitted my application I received a polite acknowledgement from NASA. Thank you for your interestand for applying to be an astronaut candidate, it read. You have successfully submitted your initial application.

My success is certain to stop there. Still, we live in a time when even the likes of me can dream a little dream and indulge a little fantasy. Space travel was once the province of only a particular kind of persona particular kind of man. That, happily, has changed. We dont all get to fly, but we all get to see ourselves in the people who do.

Write to Jeffrey Kluger at jeffrey.kluger@time.com.
The handmade boots at Davids Western Wear, a short walk from the Nogales pedestrian crossing, have for 44 years been a favorite of customers on both sides of the US-Mexico border.

David Moore says about 99% of his customers were from Mexico before the Covid-19 border lockdown; about 70% now.

A lot of it is because it is harder to go back and forth across the border, Moore told us in an interview at his store. Wait times are, like I said, just ridiculous.

Walk a bit down Morley Avenue toward the border and the last shop on the right is Korys Bridal. It is the first business you see if you come from Mexico to Arizona through the Nogales pedestrian border crossing.

Weve always depended on our Mexican neighbors to support our local economy, and weve seen the ups and downs through the years, Evan Kory said in an interview in a shop packed with white bridal gowns and bridesmaid dresses in every imaginable style and color. Currently, were seeing a very difficult time where border crossing is more difficult and time consuming. So, we dont see the same type of business that were used to.

Our visit to Arizona is the latest in a CNN project tracking the 2024 campaign through the eyes and experiences of voters  in this case, in a state Joe Biden flipped blue in 2020. Tough talk on immigration and the border is a Donald Trump calling card, and voters have raised it as a top issue in each of the seven states we have visited previously.

Here, the issue is local and often personal. Moore and Kory, for example, are quick to name favorite restaurants they walk to in Mexico. So the border and immigration conversation tends to be different from what your hear on cable news, from Trump and his hardline allies or from most of the former presidents liberal critics.

It is more polite, more nuanced, and more focused on solutions than slogans.

David Moore speaks with CNN's John King during an interview in Nogales, Arizona. - CNN

Moore, for example, said the border wall works, wants more Border Patrol and other personnel to speed up legal crossings and attributes the higher number of border encounters during the Biden presidency to a broken asylum process.

I dont know how that works  that people from Africa are coming in through Mexico, up through the Mexican border, Moore said. I would want them to regulate that a little more.

But Moore, a registered Republican, said he is almost certain to vote for Biden, as he did in 2020. Trumps divisive language about the border and immigrants offends him and hurts his business.

My livelihood depends on the people coming across the border, Moore said.

The presumptive GOP nominees recent comments that undocumented immigrants are poisoning the blood of our country are particularly offensive to Moore.

My mother was born in Mexico, and she came across the border legally, Moore said. That is a poison I can deal with, I guess.

Moore doesnt agree with the harsh terms Trump and his Republican allies use when they talk about the border, which he says has cost him: potential customers call and say they are worried about making the trip to Nogales.

People from everywhere do that, Moore said. Why do they? Because when they say on the news that the border is a war zone, those are the images. They think it is unsafe.

Again, it is important to note Moore and Kory dont dispute the border is in crisis and that more security would help. They just see the political rhetoric as exaggerated and alarmist.

My homes not a war zone, Moore said. Weve been here for a long time.

Evan Kory poses for a photo near his store in Nogales, Arizona. - CNN

Korys family has been here a longer time, running the bridal shop and a nearby shoe store for 77 years.

Like Moore, he rejects the war zone talk.

Its a complex place where two countries meet to create a beautiful culture and a beautiful area, Kory said. A Democrat, he bristles at Trumps language. But he also bristles at fellow Democrats who oppose more funding for Border Patrol and other security measures.

Thats equally frustrating, too, because you have to have a balance between all the needs and find a way to somehow work together, Kory said. Any time you go too extreme, especially with an issue as complicated as border security or immigration, anytime you do that you miss out on potentially finding solutions that may be from the other side of the spectrum.

They speak in two tongues

Nogales is part a 262-mile stretch designated the Tucson Sector by the Border Patrol. It is by far the busiest of the nine US-Mexico border sectors for illegal crossings and apprehensions.

The wall  18-feet to 20-feet high in most places  is intimidating, but not foolproof. Immigrants find their way across, through gaps and otherwise, and it is not uncommon to see abandoned clothes and belongings just steps into the US side. There are signs along roads and paths that lead to the border warning about illegal smuggling.

The US-Mexico border is seen near Tohono Oodham Nation Reservation. - CNN

For years, Faith Ramon would smuggle migrants inland anyway.

She was reeling from a very ugly divorce, losing her home and her job and had moved back onto Tohono Oodham Nation tribal lands, mired in a spiral of addiction and what she described as a deep depression.

I needed money, Ramon said in an interview outside a church and gathering place on tribal land. I needed money quick. And because of my alcohol and my addiction, I just went to a party, met some friends. They offered me some quick money. I took it. And it was so easy. It was so easy. I did it again. And I did it again. Sure enough, I was doing it for years because of it being so easy.

And then she got caught.

My luck ran out, Ramon said.

A felony conviction set her on the path to sobriety, and she relied on tribal friends and rituals for support, including sweat lodge ceremonies. One night, she said some tribal elders were weeping while praying for the land and the water at a ritual. The border again became central to her life.

That was the very first time I heard that there was a border wall that was going to be built on the reservation, separating and destroying some of our sacred sites, one of our sacred water springs as well, Ramon said.

Faith Ramon handles eggs at her home near Nogales, Arizona. - CNN

Ramon is eligible to have her voting rights restored and, assuming the process goes well, plans to cast her first vote for president this November, in battleground Arizona.

I will vote for Biden, she said. Water rights is one of her new passions and she likes Bidens climate policies. Plus, she said, Trump is not an option.

I dont like the fact that our reservation was destroyed by, how I see it, what, from my perspective, is pretty much a racist wall, Ramon said.

Her work for a nonprofit includes registering voters, and Ramon hopes to sign up tribal members who share her anger at the wall that divides Tohono Oodham lands. But she said many elders see voting as a waste of time.

One elder, she recalled, said of politicians: They speak in two tongues. They tell you what you want to hear but there is no one holding them accountable for what they say.

The temptation of third-party candidates

Biden carried Arizona by just over 10,000 votes in 2020, and his margins in the south-central part of the state were crucial. Nogales is in Santa Cruz County, where Biden received 67% of the vote. Tucson is in larger Pima County, where his share of the vote was 59%.

It will likely take similar margins for Biden to carry Arizona again, and our visit brought reminders that third-party candidates like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could have an impact.

A person walks through the pedestrian crossing to Mexico at the Nogales-Morley Gate in Nogales, Arizona. - CNN

Also clear, though, is that many voters are mindful of Arizonas battleground status and role as one of a handful of states likely to decide the Electoral College winner.

Melissa Cordero is one of those.

She is a Guam native and an Air Force veteran who voted for Trump in 2020.

I was a small business owner at the time, Cordero said. Where I supported him was how he was making the bureaucracy around setting up a small business a little more streamlined. That was important to me at the time.

Now, Cordero said, she would never support Trump again, noting that her political views have evolved significantly as time passes from her military discharge and as she networks in her new job at a conservation nonprofit and as a member of progressive veterans groups.

A lot of it was because of Covid, Cordero said. I started more volunteering in my community once we came out of that whole thing, just to be part of all the efforts. . Thats when I got into the local side of politics. Thats what rewired me.

When asked to list any specific policy disagreements with Trump, Cordero said her new activism made her comfortable sharing a deeply personal story.

Reproductive rights, Cordero said. You know, as someone who was raped, sexually assaulted, I had the opportunity to make that decision on terminating the pregnancy. I cant imagine in future years to come if that happens to me again or to someone else not having that.

Cordero, though, is not ready to commit to voting for Biden.

My biggest issue with Biden is the Palestine issue, she said. Cordero acknowledges a recent shift as Biden has been more critical of Israel and more aggressive in trying to speed up humanitarian help to Gaza. But, I think we could have a lot more influence over what is happening there, Cordero said. War is so gross, you know. This isnt even war, actually. This is just murder.

Cordero said she would study third-party options. But if she believed in the end a third-party vote might help Trump carry Arizona, she laughed nervously and said, I would vote for Biden.

Ray Flores speaks to CNN's John King during an interview near Nogales, Arizona. - CNN

Ray Flores, too, told us he would consider a third-party candidate but said he had spent zero time looking at the likely options and their platforms.

Pretty busy human being, havent really looked into that very much.

Pretty busy is an understatement. Flores runs a handful of restaurants including El Charro, an historic Tucson cafe in his family for 101 years. El Charro is famous for its carne seca and, at least in local folklore the family would be foolish to dispute, as the birthplace of the Chimichanga.

Downtown Tucson is 70 miles from the southern border. Its shelters often are crowded with migrants, but Flores said he does not view himself as well versed enough to offer border security advice. But as an employer, he has several grievances with the immigration system.

He believes it is an unfair burden to task employers with the costs of E-Verify, an online system to track the eligibility of potential employees. And he said the guest and work visa processes are broken.

A clear process for work visas would be amazing, Flores said. You can be a technology company and get an engineer and have them immigrated and you can get a work visa. Why should I not be able to do that with a chef, or a really good waiter, or for that matter a really good line cook or whoever. But I cant do that.

Flores, though, is quick to note Washingtons immigration policy gridlock predates both Biden and Trump. But he is still no fan of either major party option.

His parents are still involved in the business but are aging now and theres things that they are limited to. He sees both Biden and Trump as too old to handle the rigors of the presidency.

I wish we had a candidate that had more of a middle life and middle of the road perspective, Flores said in an interview at El Charro. Im very uncomfortable right now with either choice.

It isnt just the age issue. Flores is not wowed by either Biden or Trump from a policy or leadership perspective.

Ive witnessed what they have done, Flores said. At this juncture, theyve both had four years and I am just eight years more frustrated than I was before.

CORRECTION: A photo caption has been updated to correct the location to the US-Mexico border near the Tohono Oodham Nation Reservation.

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Two of the six men presumed dead in the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore were remembered by loved ones as devoted husbands, fathers and workers who were simply trying to improve their lot in life.

He gave us strength for everything, said Norma Suazo, sister of Maynor Suazo, a member of the construction crew that had been repairing potholes on the bridge when it was struck by a container ship early Tuesday.

He fought day after day for our family to get ahead. He looked for a way to make a living, Norma told Noticias Telemundo on Wednesday in a Spanish-language interview.

Suazos brother Fredy described him as good-natured, smiley, the type of person that always fought for the well-being of the family.

You come to this country to accomplish your dreams, and sometimes that dream doesnt get fulfilled, Fredy Suazo added. And for a tragedy like this to happen to us, can you imagine?

Maynor, who was from Honduras, leaves behind an 18-year-old son and a 6-year-old daughter, according to his brother Carlos Alexis Suazo Sandoval.

Authorities confirmed Tuesday night that six workers are presumed dead in the bridge collapse. Officials on Wednesday confirmed the names of two of the workers.

The bodies of Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, were recovered from a submerged pickup truck Wednesday morning, said Col. Ronald L. Butler Jr., a superintendent with the Maryland State Police. Fuentes was originally from Mexico and lived in Baltimore. Cabrera was from Guatemala and lived in Dundalk, Maryland.

Butler said the search-and-recovery mission has become one of salvage. It is no longer safe for divers, who had returned to the frigid water to scour for bodies Wednesday morning, to search around the wreckage, he said.

Maria del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo that her husband, Miguel Luna, was one of the workers on the Key Bridge when it tumbled into the Patapsco River. Castellon, also interviewed in Spanish, said she was desperate for news.

They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now they cant give us information, she said, referring to officials, adding that she and her family were devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we dont know if theyve rescued them yet. Were just waiting to hear any news.

CASA, a nonprofit organization that provides services to immigrants in the Baltimore area, confirmed that Luna was from El Salvador and had been living in Maryland for more than 19 years. Gustavo Torres, CASAs executive director, described Luna as a longtime member of our CASA family, adding an even deeper layer of sorrow to this already grievous situation.

At least two of the men presumed dead were from Mexico. In a statement, Mexicos secretary of foreign affairs said his government plans to provide assistance to their family members, as well as that of a Mexican national who was rescued alive from the wreckage. The other men were originally from Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala, Butler said.

In a tweet Wednesday morning, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said: We have spoken to the families, prayed with them, and assured them that our state will mobilize every resource to bring them closure.

Suazos brother-in-law told Telemundo that Suazo leaves a very great legacy.

He has been a great example for many people, he said.
By Nandita Bose and Jarrett Renshaw

RALEIGH, North Carolina (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris traveled to North Carolina on Tuesday to contrast their healthcare agenda with Republican policy aims as their reelection campaign seeks to flip the state for the first time since 2008.

The North Carolina trip marked the finale of Biden's tour of campaign battleground states following his State of the Union speech earlier this month.

Biden, a Democrat, used the tour to draw contrasts with Republicans and to raise millions of dollars as top Republican rival Donald Trump remains bogged down in costly criminal and civil legal challenges.

Biden's reelection campaign is eyeing North Carolina after Trump barely eked out a win there the last time the two went head-to-head in 2020. Barack Obama was the last Democrat to win the Southern state in 2008, but Democrats note that the margin of victory for Republicans has narrowed in recent elections.

Biden and Harris, who has led the White House charge to support abortion rights after the Supreme Court stuck down Roe v Wade in 2022, touted their healthcare achievements to a crowd of supporters in Raleigh and pledged to do more if reelected.

"While President Biden and I are fighting to expand access to affordable healthcare, there are extremists in our country trying to take away healthcare coverage, or make it more expensive," Harris said.

Biden said Trump had sought to end the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, which has significantly cut the number of uninsured Americans since it became law.

"Even during the deadly pandemic, Trump and his MAGA friends in Congress wanted to get rid of the ACA, kick millions of Americans off their health insurance. It's sick," he said.

Biden's remarks were interrupted briefly by protesters over Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza. They have a point, we need to get a lot more care into Gaza," Biden said to applause.

The White House has touted record enrollment in Obamacare as well as a price cap on insulin and a plan to empower the federal government to negotiate Medicare drug prices with pharmaceutical companies for the first time.

It contrasts those accomplishments with a budget presented by the Republican Study Committee that White House senior adviser Anita Dunn said will slash the Obamacare and Medicaid health insurance for the poor while stripping protections for pre-existing conditions.

Trump currently leads Biden by 3% in North Carolina, according to the latest opinion poll by the Marist Institute for Public Opinion. Like other polls, the Marist survey shows Biden losing ground among critical Black voters.

The former president said on his social media platform on Tuesday that he did not want to end the ACA but make it stronger and less expensive. During his 2016 presidential campaign, Trump vowed repeatedly to repeal and replace the law, but he failed to do so during his White House tenure.

Democrats are hoping some down-ballot races could help Biden pull out a win come November. They believe Mark Robinson, the Republican candidate for governor, could swing voters to the Democratic ticket in 2024.

Robinson has built a reputation as a political firebrand, and forged a path in politics partly through incendiary comments on social issues, which have mobilized his Trump-aligned base and repulsed Democrats.

Robinson has a history of antisemitic comments and opposes abortion and gay rights.

(Reporting by Nandita Bose and Jarrett Renshaw; additional reporting by Jeff Mason and Eric Beech; Editing by Mary Milliken, Jonathan Oatis and Bill Berkrot)
President Biden and Vice President Harris traveled Tuesday to North Carolina to tout the recent anniversary of the Affordable Care Act and bash Republicans health care agenda.

Biden delivered remarks in Raleigh, the capital of a state his campaign has cited as a potential flip opportunity in November after he lost it to former President Trump by roughly 75,000 votes in 2020.

The visit was timed around the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act being signed into law, but Biden used the trip to more broadly chastise Trump and Republicans for their efforts to restrict abortion and roll back health care coverage.

Kamala and I have come back to North Carolina to celebrate the Affordable Care Act and remind all of us that we cant take anything for granted, Biden said.

Biden noted Trump and the Republicans in Congress unsuccessfully tried dozens of times to repeal the law known as ObamaCare. He also seized on a budget proposal from the Republican Study Committee that called for cuts to the Affordable Care Act and entitlement programs.

My predecessor and MAGA officials are going after seniors and people with disabilities. As you well know, theyre going after women as well, Biden said.

The president cited Trumps comments taking credit for the end of Roe v. Wade, as well as his remarks during the 2016 campaign in which Trump suggested women who had an abortion should face some type of punishment.

While there are those that want to take us back in time, all of us together are determined to move us forward, Biden said. And heres the future I see. I see a future where we defend democracy not diminish democracy. I see a future where health care is a right, and we restore the freedom to choose.

North Carolina is shaping up to be a major battleground in November, with both the presidential election and a gubernatorial race atop the ticket.

A Bloomberg/Morning Consult poll published Tuesday morning found Biden had narrowed Trumps lead in North Carolina from 9 percentage points to 6 percentage points.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The chair of the Libertarian National Committee said its members are confused by Robert F. Kennedys Jr. vice presidential pick, which he announced Tuesday.

I think that a lot of libertarians are a little bit confused over why he chose Nicole Shanahan. Im sure shes a lovely person, but she doesnt necessarily fit into alignment with any of our views, Libertarian National Committee Chair Angela McArdle said on NewsNations The Hill.

Kennedy announced tech attorney and entrepreneur Nicole Shanahan as his pick for vice president during an event in Oakland, Calif., on Tuesday. When pressed further on why Libertarians are unsure about Kennedys choice, McArdle noted that she had supported President Biden and now-Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

So Im really unsure how shes going to fit in with the Libertarian Party. You know, Im anxious to hear about it, she added.

Kennedy switched to an independent White House bid in the fall after first launching his campaign in the Democratic presidential primary against President Biden. During remarks Tuesday, Shanahan said she will leave the Democratic Party.

In recent months, Kennedy has fueled speculation that he will join the Libertarian Partys ticket for the presidential election in November. When asked about conversations McArdle has had with Kennedy, she emphasized that any Libertarian presidential candidate would need to make an effort to get the support of the party.

Earlier this month, McArdle said no decision has been made on whether to put Kennedy on the ticket. McArdle said Tuesday that while picking Shanahan may not disqualify Kennedy from joining the Libertarian ticket, it definitely does not help him.

I think that hes going to have to really show us, and she certainly will as well, that they care about individual and economic freedom in particular, and that they want to continue to be, you know, they want to be our standard-bearers, she said. And I certainly understand, you know, that theyre not going to come into alignment with us on every single issue.

She added that the party wants someone whos going to be radical.

NewsNation is owned by Nexstar Media Group, which also owns The Hill.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Zachary Davis and Jacquilyn Keith have been charged with human trafficking

ackson County Detention Jacquilyn Keith, Zackary Davis

Authorities arrested and charged a Kentucky couple last week after they allegedly tried to sell their newborn twins to a relative for thousands of dollars, according to multiple reports.

An investigation into Zachary Davis and Jacquilyn Keith began after Davis sister-in-law told police that the Jackson County parents consented to selling their newborn daughters to her for $5,000, according to an arrest report cited by WAFB, the Associated Press, and Fox 13. The AP reports the couple was arrested on March 18.

The relative also reportedly offered police screenshots and a video of the alleged conversation to back up her claims.

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.

During questioning, the couple allegedly acknowledged the agreed-upon deal but stated that they would not follow through, the police report states, according to WAFB.

According to the AP, the report states that the father acknowledged that he had joked around about selling the babies, and the mother said she wasnt serious on a video in which discusses the attempted sale.

Davis and Keith were subsequently charged with human trafficking and are being held in the Jackson County Detention Center.

It's unclear if they have entered pleas or retained attorneys to speak on their behalf.

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or go to www.childhelp.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.



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Rep. Annie Kuster (D-N.H.), the chair of the New Democrat Coalition, will not seek reelection in November, she announced Wednesday.

As I look to the future, I am excited by the work and opportunities that lie ahead. We all have a role to play in standing up for what we believe in, advocating for a better future, and pursuing the change that we want to see. I always said I was not going to stay in Congress forever  I will not be seeking re-election in 2024, Kuster said in a statement.

Kuster is the latest House member to announce an exit from Congress. The six-term congresswoman said she will serve until the end of her term in January 2025.

In the months ahead, I will use my time to help Congress build on the progress we have made and finish the job for the American people. I will continue to lead the New Democrat Coalition to help pass comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to move our country forward, she said.

Kuster, 67, has represented New Hampshires 2nd Congressional District since 2013. She chairs the New Democrat Coalition and is the founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence.

This work has been many things  rewarding, frustrating, inspiring, and challenging. But, more than anything, it has been an honor. As your congresswoman, I have had the chance to meet directly with the people who make New Hampshire such an incredible place to live, work, and raise a family, she said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Rep. Annie Kuster, a Democrat in a competitive New Hampshire district, announced Wednesday she wont seek re-election in 2024.

She was first elected in 2012 and is currently the chair of the moderate New Democrat Coalition. Kuster, 67, said she'll stay in office through the end of her term in January 2025.

Her decision could make the seat competitive in the 2024 House elections, creating an opportunity for Republicans in the swing district. The state's 2nd Congressional District, which includes Nashua and Concord, leans Democrat by just 2 points, according to the Cook Partisan Voting Index.

This work has been many things  rewarding, frustrating, inspiring, and challenging. But, more than anything, it has been an honor, Kuster said in a statement. As I look to the future, I am excited by the work and opportunities that lie ahead. We all have a role to play in standing up for what we believe in, advocating for a better future, and pursuing the change that we want to see. I always said I was not going to stay in Congress forever  I will not be seeking re-election in 2024.

A source close to Kuster said she is focused on flipping the House this fall and getting the New Democrat Coalition candidates and vulnerable members elected back to Congress. For the rest of the Congress she will be pouring all of her energy into that goal, the source said. Its also time for her, and her and her family.

Kuster's retirement comes in the wake of Democratic drama in New Hampshire after the national party revamped the 2024 nominating calendar and stripped the state of its cherished first-in-the-nation primary status this year.

Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chair Suzan DelBene, D-Wash., issued a statement praising Kuster's work.

Her record of public service and delivering for New Hampshire is unmatched, DelBene said. I am constantly in awe of and inspired by her courage and will miss her as a colleague and friend. With her help, Im confident that this seat will remain in Democratic hands so that Granite Staters can continue having a fighter for them in Congress.

Savannah Viar, a spokeswoman for the National Republican Congressional Committee, responded: Yet another extreme House Democrat does not want anything to do with running on the same ballot with failure Joe Biden. Add her to the ever growing list of Democrats fleeing for the exits rather than defend a broken border, rising gas prices and slow economy.
Key takeaways from China Development Forum 2024

Xinhua) 11:18, March 27, 2024

BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Themed "The Continuous Development of China," the China Development Forum (CDF) 2024 concluded on Monday, with senior Chinese officials, leaders of multinationals and representatives from international organizations, offering insights into China's development and its global impact.

Following are the key takeaways from their speeches and viewpoints shared during the two-day conference.

MAJOR CONTRIBUTOR TO GLOBAL GROWTH

"In the medium-term, China will continue to be a key contributor to global economic growth," said Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the International Monetary Fund, at the forum.

Georgieva expressed optimism regarding China's future growth prospects, attributing it to a comprehensive package of pro-market reforms. "This additional growth would amount to a 20 percent expansion of the real economy over the next 15 years -- in today's terms, that is like adding 3.5 trillion U.S. dollars to the Chinese economy," she said.

Masatsugu Asakawa, president of the Asian Development Bank, echoed her views, noting that he is encouraged by the progress China has made in its development.

"Looking ahead for China we see a stable growth trajectory in 2024, within the target range announced by the government," he said.

In its government work report, China unveiled a target of around 5 percent expansion for the economy this year, a goal described by Jack Chan, chairman of EY China and regional managing partner of EY Greater China, as both pragmatic and inspiring.

"Despite the numerous challenges in global growth, China's solid economic fundamentals for long-term growth remained unchanged as shown in its 2023 performance and we maintain confidence in the country's ongoing high-quality development," Chan said in an interview with Xinhua.

NEW GROWTH DRIVERS

Making strides in new quality productive forces, featuring high-tech, high efficiency and high quality, is high on China's agenda this year, and Chinese authorities have pledged a host of measures to bolster new growth drivers at the CDF.

China will boost industrial innovation through technological innovation, speed up upgrading of traditional industries, and foster emerging industries, Zheng Shanjie, head of the National Development and Reform Commission, said at the forum.

New quality productive forces reflect China's requirements for structural transformation and high-quality development, with broad prospects, said Zhang Qingjie, head of digital enablement and head of AI at KPMG China.

The advancement of new quality productive forces in China means strategic opportunities in upgrading industrial and supply chains, fostering emerging and future industries, and driving innovative development of the digital economy, he added.

Zheng said that China will strive to integrate digital technologies into the real economy sector and integrate advanced manufacturing with the modern service industry while fostering new growth engines in fields like biomanufacturing, commercial spaceflight, new materials and low-altitude economy.

As China promotes new industrialization and accelerates the building of a modern industrial system, strong development momentum will be unleashed, creating a broad space for deepening international industrial and supply chain cooperation, said Jin Zhuanglong, minister of Industry and Information Technology.

The country will continue to deepen international cooperation and work with enterprises across the world to promote industrial and supply chain upgrades, he added.

According to Jin, Chinese and foreign companies can deepen cooperation on science and technology innovation, on the digitalization and green development of the manufacturing sector, as well as among small and medium-sized enterprises.

EXPANDING OPENING UP

Speakers at the CDF have repeatedly highlighted China's commitment to further opening up, affirming the country's willingness to offer more opportunities for foreign investors to engage in deeper operations here.

Zheng said that the country will continue efforts to optimize its business environment, pursue higher-standard opening up, strengthen international sci-tech cooperation, and accelerate the formulation of the 2024 negative list for foreign investment.

As China continues to lift market access restrictions in the manufacturing sector, it will also promote the opening up of sectors such as telecommunications and medical care to create more trade and investment opportunities for foreign investors, Vice Commerce Minister Guo Tingting, said at the forum.

The country will also launch a campaign to boost investment, continue to optimize services, and fully ensure national treatment for foreign-funded enterprises, Guo added.

Data from the Ministry of Commerce showed that some 7,160 new foreign-invested firms were set up across China during the first two months of this year, up 34.9 percent year on year, the highest increase in nearly five years.

Speaking at the forum, Kim Fausing, president and CEO of Danfoss, a leading Danish energy efficiency solution company, said that China's reaffirmed pledge to further opening up and improvements to the business environment, especially the protection of intellectual property rights, gives them strong confidence to continue investing in the country.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
EL PASO, TEXAS - MARCH 26: Eliana, 22, a migrant from Venezuela, holds her daughter Crismarlees, 3, while being denied entry after attempting to cross through concertina from the U.S. side of the Rio Grande river on March 26, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. Four days ago, hundreds of migrants seeking asylum clashed with Texas national guardsmen while waiting to turn themselves in to border patrol agents for processing. Texas continues awaiting a verdict on Senate Bill 4. The bill allows state law enforcement officials to detain and arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing into the U.S. Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court authorized Senate Bill 4, a federal appeals court halted the decision based on an earlier injunction. The politics and controversies surrounding border and immigration issues continue to be a dominant theme in the U.S. presidential election campaign. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Brandon Bell/Getty Images EL PASO, TEXAS - MARCH 26: Peruvian migrant Jordan and his 1-year-old daughter Briana wait for their group of migrants in preparation to cross over into the U.S. on March 26, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. Four days ago, hundreds of migrants seeking asylum clashed with Texas national guardsmen while waiting to turn themselves in to border patrol agents for processing. Texas continues awaiting a verdict on Senate Bill 4. The bill allows state law enforcement officials to detain and arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing into the U.S. Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court authorized Senate Bill 4, a federal appeals court halted the decision based on an earlier injunction. The politics and controversies surrounding border and immigration issues continue to be a dominant theme in the U.S. presidential election campaign. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Brandon Bell/Getty Images A woman in shackles is patted down before boarding the first deportation flight of undocumented Venezuelans after a US-Venezuelan agreement in Harlingen, Texas, on Oct.18, 2023. The United States said on Oct. 5, 2023, it will resume deportation flights to Venezuela after a deal with Caracas, as President Joe Biden, seeking reelection, comes under pressure to halt border crossings. Washington has for years halted sending migrants back to Venezuela due to instability in the South American nation and still maintains sanctions against the government of President Nicolas Maduro. (Veronica G. Cardenas/AFP/Getty Images/TNS) Veronica G. Cardenas/TNS A man in shackles boards the first deportation flight of undocumented Venezuelans after a US-Venezuelan agreement in Harlingen, Texas, on Oct. 18, 2023. The United States said on Oct. 5, 2023, it will resume deportation flights to Venezuela after a deal with Caracas, as President Joe Biden, seeking reelection, comes under pressure to halt border crossings. Washington has for years halted sending migrants back to Venezuela due to instability in the South American nation and still maintains sanctions against the government of President Nicolas Maduro. (Veronica G. Cardenas/AFP/Getty Images/TNS) Veronica G. Cardenas/TNS EL PASO, TEXAS - MARCH 26: Texas Tactical Border Force guardsmen arrive at the Million Air El Paso ELP airport on March 26, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. Approximately 200 guardsmen arrived to provide extra security along El Paso's Southern border. Four days ago, hundreds of migrants seeking asylum clashed with Texas national guardsmen while waiting to turn themselves into border patrol agents for processing. Texas continues awaiting a verdict on Senate Bill 4. The bill allows state law enforcement officials to detain and arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing into the U.S. Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court authorized Senate Bill 4, a federal appeals court halted the decision based on an earlier injunction. The politics and controversies surrounding border and immigration issues continue to be a dominant theme in the U.S. presidential election campaign. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Brandon Bell/Getty Images EL PASO, TEXAS - MARCH 26: Texas Tactical Border Force guardsmen speak together before departing from the Million Air El Paso ELP airport on March 26, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. Approximately 200 guardsmen arrived to provide extra security along El Paso's Southern border. Four days ago, hundreds of migrants seeking asylum clashed with Texas national guardsmen while waiting to turn themselves in to border patrol agents for processing. Texas continues awaiting a verdict on Senate Bill 4. The bill allows state law enforcement officials to detain and arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing into the U.S. Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court authorized Senate Bill 4, a federal appeals court halted the decision based on an earlier injunction. The politics and controversies surrounding border and immigration issues continue to be a dominant theme in the U.S. presidential election campaign. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Brandon Bell/Getty Images EL PASO, TEXAS - MARCH 26: Texas Tactical Border Force guardsmen load onto buses after arriving at the Million Air El Paso ELP airport on March 26, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. Approximately 200 guardsmen arrived to provide extra security along El Paso's Southern border. Four days ago, hundreds of migrants seeking asylum clashed with Texas national guardsmen while waiting to turn themselves in to border patrol agents for processing. Texas continues awaiting a verdict on Senate Bill 4. The bill allows state law enforcement officials to detain and arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing into the U.S. Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court authorized Senate Bill 4, a federal appeals court halted the decision based on an earlier injunction. The politics and controversies surrounding border and immigration issues continue to be a dominant theme in the U.S. presidential election campaign. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Brandon Bell/Getty Images EL PASO, TEXAS - MARCH 26: A migrant keeps watch while attempting to cross through concertina wire on the U.S. side of the Rio Grande river on March 26, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. Four days ago, hundreds of migrants seeking asylum clashed with Texas national guardsmen while waiting to turn themselves in to border patrol agents for processing. Texas continues awaiting a verdict on Senate Bill 4. The bill allows state law enforcement officials to detain and arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing into the U.S. Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court authorized Senate Bill 4, a federal appeals court halted the decision based on an earlier injunction. The politics and controversies surrounding border and immigration issues continue to be a dominant theme in the U.S. presidential election campaign. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Brandon Bell/Getty Images EL PASO, TEXAS - MARCH 26: Peruvian migrant Jordan and his 1-year-old daughter Briana leads a group of migrants towards border fencing the U.S. side of the Rio Grande river on March 26, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. Four days ago, hundreds of migrants seeking asylum clashed with Texas national guardsmen while waiting to turn themselves in to border patrol agents for processing. Texas continues awaiting a verdict on Senate Bill 4. The bill allows state law enforcement officials to detain and arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing into the U.S. Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court authorized Senate Bill 4, a federal appeals court halted the decision based on an earlier injunction. The politics and controversies surrounding border and immigration issues continue to be a dominant theme in the U.S. presidential election campaign. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Brandon Bell/Getty Images EL PASO, TEXAS - MARCH 26: Migrants cut through border concertina wire from the U.S. side of the Rio Grande river on March 26, 2024 in El Paso, Texas. Four days ago, hundreds of migrants seeking asylum clashed with Texas national guardsmen while waiting to turn themselves in to border patrol agents for processing. Texas continues awaiting a verdict on Senate Bill 4. The bill allows state law enforcement officials to detain and arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing into the U.S. Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court authorized Senate Bill 4, a federal appeals court halted the decision based on an earlier injunction. The politics and controversies surrounding border and immigration issues continue to be a dominant theme in the U.S. presidential election campaign. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Brandon Bell/Getty Images

WASHINGTON  A federal appeals panel late Tuesday night declined to put Texas migrant deportation law back in effect, saying the state law seizes powers that are likely reserved to the United States.

The 2-1 opinion from the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals keeps the law on hold while a broader legal battle plays out over the constitutionality of the states new immigration enforcement scheme. The appeals court is scheduled to hear arguments in the case next week.

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But the lengthy early ruling from the conservative appeals court is a sign of the uphill battle Texas Republicans face in convincing the courts the law, known as Senate Bill 4, does not run afoul of more than a century of precedent leaving immigration enforcement in the hands of the federal government.

Chief Judge Priscilla Richman wrote that even as the state is nobly and admirably trying to fill a gaping void in immigration enforcement left by a lack of funding and political will in D.C., it is unlikely that Texas can step into the shoes of the national sovereign under our Constitution and laws.

For nearly 150 years, the Supreme Court has held that the power to control immigration  the entry, admission, and removal of noncitizens  is exclusively a federal power, Richman wrote. Despite this fundamental axiom, SB4 creates separate, distinct state criminal offenses and related procedures regarding unauthorized entry of noncitizens into Texas from outside the country and their removal.

The one judge on the panel to rule in Texas favor said the decision signals the law likely will never take effect.

Well likely never know how Texass state courts and its state law-enforcement officers would have implemented SB4, Judge Andrew S. Oldham wrote.

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The law makes it a crime to enter the state from Mexico without permission, allowing any law enforcement officer in Texas to arrest migrants they suspect of entering illegally and empowering judges to order their removal.

The U.S. Department of Justice, El Paso County and civil and immigrant rights groups sued, arguing the law would interfere with the federal governments enforcement efforts.

Texas Republicans, who passed the law last fall, say it is necessary to protect the state against migrants crossing the border in record numbers and Mexican drug cartels. They say the state has to step in because the federal government is not doing enough to stop border crossings.

But the appeals panel was not convinced the state could step in, even as Gov. Greg Abbott has called the situation at the border an invasion. Federal immigration law still trumps the states attempts, the court decided.

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Richman repeatedly pointed to a 2012 Supreme Court ruling that held that only the federal government has the power to enforce immigration laws. In that case, the high court struck down portions of an Arizona law that authorized police to arrest anyone suspected of being in the country illegally.

Texas Republicans have cast SB4 as an opening for the high court to reconsider the Arizona decision.

Richman said the Arizona ruling provides considerable guidance on whether Texas can succeed. She wrote that the Supreme Court in that case explained that a principal feature of the federal removal system is the broad discretion exercised by immigration officials. Those officials can decide whom to deport, and migrants can seek asylum or other forms of relief at any point in the process.

SB4s provisions empowering state officials to make those decisions, Richman wrote, significantly impair the exercise of discretion by federal immigration officials.

The broadest exercise of federal discretion is the Executives decision not to pursue either civilly or criminally the very noncitizens whom Texas

has drawn a bead upon in enacting new state laws, she wrote. The discretion to pursue these same noncitizens likely lies exclusively with the Executive.

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It is the latest in a chaotic series of exchanges between the courts that allowed the law to take effect for a short time last week.

A federal judge in Austin last month blocked SB4, which he declared patently unconstitutional. The 5th Circuit then set aside his ruling, clearing the way for Texas to begin enforcing the law. But the Supreme Court stepped in and halted the law twice before deciding it could take no further action until the appeals court issued a more formal decision. That allowed the law to take effect for about nine hours before the 5th Circuit stepped in and blocked it again.

In a dissenting opinion Tuesday, Oldham argued the law should have been able to take effect before it was brought before the courts. He said the case against it is hypothetical since no one has been arrested or deported under the law.

Oldham predicted that even after hearing further arguments scheduled for next week, the appeals panel is likely to keep the law on hold for the same reasons given in Tuesdays opinion.

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The Real Housewives of Potomac alum Katie Rost was an eyewitness to Sean Diddy Combs Miami home getting raided by Homeland Security on Monday, March 25.

From my apartment, we watched choppers come and raid Diddys house, what a show of force. It was a humbling moment. Not a joke, the former Bravo star, 43, wrote via X on Tuesday, March 26, alongside a mirror selfie of herself wearing a yellow bikini, sun hat and flip flops.

She added a comment in the thread, And Im not joking. We actually watched it. Not on TV, they came in like its Kuwait in the 90s. All resources used.

Rost shared a video from her apartment pool to talk more about the situation after commenters accused her of over-exaggerating the situation.

From my apartment we watched choppers come and raid Diddys house, what a show of force. It was a humbling moment. Not a joke. pic.twitter.com/q1fJOsYG3S  Katie Rost (@KatieRost) March 26, 2024

Im going to break it down for you, she said before showing her close proximity to star island, where Diddy, 54, has a residence. We watched them coming in like gangbusters, dude, from the sky. It was like [helicopter noise] from every direction. Im serious. I actually watched the whole thing, I should have taped it. I went to school for journalism, so I should know better. I was just so mesmerized.

Former Real Housewives of Potomac Stars: Where Are They Now?

On March 25, Homeland Security and local law enforcement raided Diddys Los Angeles and Miami homes in connection to a federal sex trafficking investigation.

Earlier today, Homeland Security Investigations New York executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami and our local law enforcement partners, Homeland Security told Us Weekly in a statement shortly after the raids happened. We will provide further information as it becomes available.

Diddys lawyer, Aaron Dyer, responded to the situation in a statement on March 26.

DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images

Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr. Combs residences. There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated, Dyer told The Hollywood Reporter. Mr. Combs was never detained but spoke to and cooperated with authorities. Despite media speculation, neither Mr. Combs nor any of his family members have been arrested nor has their ability to travel been restricted in any way.

Dyers statement continued, This unprecedented ambush  paired with an advanced, coordinated media presence  leads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr. Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits. There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations. Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name.

The raids on Diddys homes come months after his ex-girlfriend Cassie (real name Casandra Ventura), whom he dated from 2007 to 2018, accused him of rape and repeated sexual abuse during their decade-long relationship. The pair announced that they reached a settlement one day after Venturas bombshell lawsuit made headlines in December 2023.

Diddys Ups and Downs Over the Years: Lawsuits, Home Raid and More

After the raids, Ventura told Us Weekly via her attorney she hopes her ex is held responsible for his actions.

We will always support law enforcement when it seeks to prosecute those that have violated the law, attorney Douglas Wigdor told Us. Hopefully, this is the beginning of a process that will hold Mr. Combs responsible for his depraved conduct.

Since Venturas lawsuit, multiple people have come forward also accusing Diddy of sexual assault, which he has denied. It is unclear if there is a connection between their allegations and the raids on Diddys homes.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  Convicted killer Alex Murdaugh didn't tell the truth when FBI agents repeatedly asked him where more than $6 million he stole ended up and whether another attorney not yet identified helped him steal from clients and his law firm, federal prosecutors said in court documents Tuesday.

The prosecutors want a judge to revoke their end of a plea deal with Murdaugh on theft and other charges and order him to the maximum of well over 100 years in prison when he is sentenced in Charleston, South Carolina, on Monday.

Murdaugh, 55, is already serving life without parole in state prison after a jury found him guilty of murder in the shootings of his wife and younger son. He pleaded guilty to stealing money from clients and his law firm in state court and was sentenced to 27 years, which South Carolina prosecutors said is an insurance policy to keep him behind bars in case his murder conviction was ever overturned.

The federal case was supposed to be even more insurance, with whatever sentence Murdaugh received running at the same time as his state sentences. But that deal is in doubt after the FBI said the disbarred attorney failed a polygraph.

The test came in October, after three previous FBI interviews of Murdaugh led investigators to think he wasn't telling the full truth about where at least $6 million he stole ended up and the role of an attorney who has not been publicly identified in his crimes, federal prosecutors said.

In court papers, prosecutors asked to keep the report on the polygraph test and summaries of Murdaugh's four FBI interviews from the public, saying a grand jury is continuing to investigate and the information could be used to tamper with evidence or influence witnesses.

Murdaugh's attorneys didn't respond to messages Tuesday. They have not filed a response in court, although a footnote in the prosecution's filing said they were against keeping the polygraph report secret.

Federal prosecutors said Murdaugh did appear to tell the truth about the roles banker Russell Laffitte and attorney and old college friend Cory Fleming played in helping him steal.

Laffitte was convicted and sentenced to seven years in prison, while Fleming is serving nearly four years behind bars after pleading guilty.

Each of the 22 counts Murdaugh pleaded guilty to in federal court carries a maximum of 20 years in prison. Some carry a 30-year maximum. Prosecutors said they will ask for the stiffest sentence possible since the plea agreement was breached and require Murdaugh serve his federal sentence at the end of any state sentences.

They said there is a long history of federal law that won't allow Murdaugh to revoke his guilty plea since he broke the terms of the deal.

State prosecutors estimated Murdaugh stole more than $12 million from clients by diverting settlement money into his own accounts or stealing from his family law firm. Federal investigators estimate at least $6 million of that has not been accounted for, although Murdaugh has said he spent extravagantly on illegal drugs after becoming hooked on opioids.

Investigators said that as Murdaugh's schemes were about to be exposed in June 2021, he decided to kill his wife and son. Paul Murdaugh was shot several times with a shotgun and Maggie Murdaugh was shot several times with a rifle outside the family's home in Colleton County.

Murdaugh has adamantly denied killing them, even testifying in his own defense against his lawyers' advice.

As he pleaded guilty in federal court on Sept. 21, it was the first time he admitted to a crime and promised to stick to the requirements of his deal, including being fully truthful and forthright with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies by providing full, complete and truthful information about all criminal activities about which he/she has knowledge.

I want to take responsibility. I want my son to see me take responsibility. Its my hope that by taking responsibility that the people Ive hurt can begin to heal, said Murdaugh, standing in his orange South Carolina prison jumpsuit.

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This story has been updated to corrects the spelling of first name to Cory Fleming, not Corey, in 8th paragraph.
Ill admit it. I will elbow you out of the way to get on the plane 30 seconds sooner and secure overhead bin space. Im not proud of it, but I'll probably never see you again, and I really dont want to have to check a bag on most flights.

Im part of the problem, but Im not alone. The bag wars just keep heating up.

We travel a couple times a year, about four times a year, and were noticing that we dont have any overhead space for our bags. When people are getting on the plane, theyre taking the first (space) available, Elaine DiCresce, a retiree from Minneapolis, told me. The last few times, we actually checked our bags at the gate. Its just frustrating.

So how did we get here? Why is overhead bin space at such a premium, and what can be done about it? Heres what I learned.

The coveted overhead bin space.

Who sets carry-on bag rules?

Most flights have a 1 + 1 rule: one carry-on bag that goes in the overhead bin and one personal item that fits under the seat in front in economy and on most domestic flights. But these guidelines are flexible and not set in stone.

The airlines make the rules, Loulu Lima, founder of the Texas-based travel agency Book Here Give Here, told me. This is real simple, and every airline has a different rule.

That is to say, theres no overarching regulation about what carry-on bags have to be, just that most airlines use similar equipment and set standards more or less the same way.

Sometimes youll hear an agent blame the FAA, but thats not true, said Brett Snyder, author of the blog Cranky Flier and owner of the travel agency Cranky Concierge.

But whenever you fly, its a good idea to check the details of your carry-on allowance.

Lima said each airline has slightly different dimensions for allowable carry-on bags, and different tickets have different rules. Some basic economy tickets might not allow for overhead bin baggage, and ultra-low-cost carriers like Spirit and Frontier may charge an extra fee for carry-on bags.

What are the best ways to secure overhead bin space?

Unfortunately, theres no great strategy here. The best way to access a bin on most airlines is to be in an early boarding group, which usually means having a more premium ticket, having frequent flyer status with the airline, holding the right credit card, or paying for access.

I hate to say it, but sometimes I would join a credit card that gets you earlier boarding or buy that early boarding space. It really depends on the airline," Lima said.

How can overhead bin space be less competitive?

First, a brief detour to look at why bin space is so sought-after in the first place:

We initially got there when checked bags were still free, but people were primarily concerned that their checked bag would be lost, Snyder said. When (airlines) started charging for checked bags, then it became even more important for people, because people dont want to pay for it.

Lima agreed that passengers mistrusting airlines is a big part of why so many passengers rely solely on carry-ons on their trips.

Weve all become control freaks to a certain extent, she said. Theres no trust that the bag is actually going to make it. Why do you think the AirTags and the Tiles and all of these other things are so popular these days?

Airlines are aware that access to bins is competitive and frequently tout improvements that mean more space for rollaboards. In fact, just on Tuesday, United Airlines announced it was installing larger bins on its Embraer E175 regional jets, operated by Skywest. Regional jets, which typically fly short routes, are notoriously tight on carry-on space.

Beyond physical improvements to overhead bins, airlines cant do much to help with the competition, though.

Snyder said airlines can encourage or require passengers to gate-check their bags but acknowledged that sometimes backfires, especially if they start forcing checks before the overhead bins are full.

And, of course, airlines can charge for overhead bin access, which is unpopular with passengers, but it does smooth things along at the boarding door.

You have airlines like Spirit and Frontier, they charge you more to carry-on than to check a bag, Snyder said. You dont see the same kind of mad dash that you see on other airlines to get on board just so you can claim your bin space.

Yet, the efficacy of such practices is somewhat limited.

For DiCresce and her husband, Clifford, theyre left wondering why airlines dont assign slots in the overhead bin like seats, and to be honest, I think its a fair question to which I dont have an answer.

Expert packing tips

Until new innovations or some sort of sorcery make overhead bin space unlimited, were stuck duking it out with fellow passengers for whatever we can get.

Lima said that she usually travels with carry-on bags only and that you can minimize the space you need by being strategic about how and what you pack.

Ive gone to China and to Finland for three weeks and Ive had different temperature changes, she said. Im all about rolling and, as a plus-sized woman, my clothes are bigger than most, so if I can do it, everyone else can do it, too.

For Snyder, the best way to avoid the stress is to just determine not to rely on the bins at all.

When you travel without a carry-on bag, it is remarkably freeing. You, all of a sudden, dont care when you board if you have an assigned seat, he said.

And Ive seen for myself that the checked-bag system is increasingly reliable. Ill still fight you for that overhead bin space for now, but I may be coming around to Snyders view.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at zwichter@usatoday.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why overhead bin space is so competitive | Cruising Altitude
Key takeaways

Aspire Servicing Center is a student loan provider that services parent and student loans from an Aspire affiliate. They also serviced Direct loans until 2015 when they transferred them to MOHELA.

If your loan originated with Iowa Student Loan or its partners, theres a good chance Aspire services your student loan.

You can see who services your student loans by checking your credit reports or logging into your Federal Student Aid account.

Pay Aspire loans by check, set up automatic withdrawal through its app or website or call the provider.

Aspire Servicing Center is a student loan servicer that handles administrative tasks and customer service for various student loan lenders. If you have a student loan with Aspire, heres what you need to know about the company and how to manage your account.

What is Aspire Servicing Center and what does it do?

Aspire Resources, Inc. is a for-profit subsidiary of the nonprofit organization Iowa Student Loan and offers customer service for student loan borrowers under the name Aspire Servicing Center.

Aspire was created in 2001 and received a contract from the Department of Education to service federal student loans in 2012. The company exited the contract three years later because its revenue didnt offset the operating costs. At that time, federally-held Aspire student loans were transferred to MOHELA. Now Aspire services loans that are not federally held.

Is Aspire Servicing Center a good loan servicer?

Its difficult to say whether Aspire is a good loan servicer. Aspire claims it received high ratings from the Department of Education for its customer satisfaction on Direct Loans. The company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau but isnt accredited. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau received only two complaints about the student loan servicer in 2020.

What type of student loans does Aspire Servicing Center service?

Aspire Services Center services parent and student loans from an Aspire affiliate. The company serviced federally held loans until 2015.

How do I know if Aspire Servicing Center is my student loan servicer?

If your student loans were originated by Iowa Student Loan or one of the organizations partners, your account is likely serviced by Aspire Servicing Center. You should be able to confirm thats the case by reviewing your monthly statement or the original loan documents you received.

If you had federal Direct Loans serviced by Aspire, they were transferred to MOHELA in 2015. You can check your credit reports to see a list of all of your student loan servicers.

How do you make payments to Aspire Servicing Center?

If you have Aspire student loans, there are several different ways you can make a payment. Options include:

Aspire Servicing Center mobile app: Download the servicers mobile app on iOS or Android.

By mail: Send your payment with a payment stub to Aspire Servicing Center, P.O. Box 659705, West Des Moines, IA 50265-0970.

By phone: Call 800-243-7552 or 515-243-5626 to use the automated payment service.

Online account: Log in using your username and password. If youre creating an account with Aspire, youll need your account number or Social Security number and date of birth.

To avoid making payments manually every month, you can set up automatic payments through your online account or by filling out an authorization form and mailing or faxing it to the loan servicer.

If you need payoff information to refinance your loan or pay it in full, contact Aspire at 800-243-7552.

How can you contact Aspires Servicing Center?

If you have questions about your Aspire student loan account, you can contact the servicer in a few ways. The loan servicers customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, and you can reach them at 800-243-7552 or 515-243-5626.

If its not urgent, you can also send a message through the Aspire website to receive an email response. Other reasons and methods for contacting Aspire include:

Mail: If you need to send a form or another type of correspondence via mail, send it to Aspire Servicing Center, P.O. Box 659705, West Des Moines, IA 50265-0970.

Fax: If you need to fax a form, use the number 515-471-3983.

Private loan application assistance: If you need help applying for a private student loan with one of Aspires partners, call 800-542-6005 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

Technical support: If you need technical assistance, call 888-584-0016 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.

How has Aspire Servicing Center responded to the student loan repayment pause?

When the COVID-19 pandemic started, Aspire Servicing Center implemented measures to assist student loan borrowers, including extending the interest-free pause to borrowers with Federal Family Education Loans and private student loans owned by ISL until the payment pause ends. Borrowers will have the option to make interest-only payments on all private loans through December 2026.

Aspire Servicing Center also stopped initiating any new legal action related to defaulted private loans and is reaching out to affected borrowers to make them aware of assistance. Aspire added staff to help communicate with those borrowers.

The bottom line

While imperfect, Aspire Servicing Center hasnt received many complaints from customers, and if you have a problem, you have a lot of flexibility with how you want to contact Aspire.

If you have a significant problem, you can also file a credit dispute or enlist the help of a student loan advocate directly with the student loan servicer. If you cant handle your issue with Aspire directly, consider filing a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission and your state attorney generals office.
Greetings from the Fortune Innovation Forum in Hong Kong. There have been plenty of discussions about artificial intelligence so far, both in terms of the generative AI thats dominated headlines and the AI thats already been transforming business for years. But there have also been fascinating debates about another type of innovation: the ability to disrupt your business and yourself by reimagining and reinventing what you do.

For that, I was struck by a conversation at the Fortune Most Powerful Women breakfast that was moderated by my colleague, Claire Zillman. While the push for gender parity is slow, inspired leaders can produce remarkable results. From Yum China CEO Joey Wats decision to extend health insurance to the parents of regional general managers to Trip.com CEO Jane Suns move to help women plan their families and their careers, there are meaningful actions that leaders can take to help women move into positions of leadership. For more, heres a wrap-up of the session.

One of the fastest ways to achieve diversity, of course, is to mandate it. Earlier this month, Bonnie Chan became the first woman CEO of the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd. HKEX is the first international exchange to ban companies with single-gender boards from listing. When the rule passed in early 2022, about 850 companies, or almost a third of the total, had single-gender boards. Now, there are fewer than 500a number that Chan predicts could radically shrink during the upcoming annual general meeting season as the year-end deadline looms. Well have to think about how to punish those who dont comply, says Chan. To start, well probably name and shame.

Hong Kong Financial Secretary Paul Chan spoke with Fortunes editor-in-chief, Alyson Shontell, about the role that Hong Kong can play in being a common ground for business in an age of escalating tensions between the U.S. and China. Since transitioning from British rule in 1997, this special administrative region of China has struggled to retain its reputation as a global hub for business amid a clampdown on dissent. Chan addressed the impact of a new national security law, which has prompted criticism and reflection on Hong Kongs status under Chinese control.

Having lived in Hong Kong at the start of my career, I think it still feels like an international gateway. Some of the changes in travel patterns may be as much due to the pandemic as to politics. Dane Cheng, the executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, noted that its become harder to dislodge people from their homes to hit nightclubs or return the city to its status as a shopping destination. In a world thats become more accustomed to e-commerce, those challenges similarly impact New York, London, and other global centers.

More to come on the economy and next wave of innovations from this region. Until then, heres an update on other news.

Diane Brady

diane.brady@fortune.com

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Having known the past six CEOs of Boeing personally across multiple corporate governance crises, my phone has been ringing off the hook since the abrupt announcement of a massive shakeup in Boeings leadership ranks, including the retirement of CEO Dave Calhoun at the end of the year, the replacement of Board Chair Larry Kellner, the immediate resignation of Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stan Deal, and the appointment of Stephanie Pope as the new head of Commercial.

There should be no question that this governance carnage at Boeing is tragic for all involved. Not only is this revered, iconic pillar of American greatness badly hobbled amidst safety crises, but now its senior executive ranks have been hollowed out, with the board urgently searching for a leadership reset amidst a lack of obvious successors.

If Boeing is to succeed, the board must get its choice of the next CEO right. Heres what we hear from Boeing insiders about Dave Calhouns legacy at Boeing, and who could pilot the company next amidst a wide-open field of potential candidates.

The end of an era after Calhoun reinvented Boeing and its top ranks in his image

I should make it clear that I have known and liked Calhoun for decades, dating back to his time at Nielsen. I have previously given Calhoun credit for some things he did well, such as when he returned many Boeing 737 MAXs to the skies after the tragic 2018/2019 accidents, his transparent public communications, and restoring Boeings deliveries to China after a years-long hiatus. Even his detractors can point to instances in which they admired his leadership, such as when he chose the difficult but right path of permanently and fully exiting Russia when his main competitor Airbus continued on with Russian sourcing and even stepped into Boeings vacated Russian supply chain. But as Calhoun exits, we cannot ignore the equally frequent complaints we heard throughout the duration of his tenure.

Some of Calhouns challenges grew out of his unique path to Boeings top job, as well as his efficiency and profit-hyperfocused leadership style. Calhoun is nobodys definition of a warm and fuzzy personality, nor was he seen internally as a culture carrier of excellence and safety. From the beginning, many Boeing employees eyed Calhoun suspiciously after he came off the board to assume the reins as CEO in 2020. Despite rumors that he wielded disproportionate influence since he joined the Boeing board in 2009, developing a close working relationship with previous CEO Jim McNerney and successor Dennis Muilenburg, one of Calhouns first moves as CEO was to give a widely-panned interview to David Gelles of The New York Times, throwing his predecessors under the plane and claiming ignorance of the extent of the companys woes, which shocked many Boeing employees and alienated them from the outset.

From there, Calhouns detractors argue that he consolidated control by methodically pushing out dissenters, replacing Boeing veterans with decades of service with loyalists who had followed him from GE to Nielsen to Boeing, and layering over holdover senior executives with surprise internal promotions, plucking favored mid-level executives out of obscurity and plopping them directly into some of the companys most senior positions while hollowing out Boeings ranks of veteran executives. No wonder one former Boeing executive described Calhouns brain trust to me as a good ole boys club of GE castaways.

Molded by his formative GE years, I heard over and over that Calhouns prioritization of execution, to the point of arguably neglecting all else, inspired chilling visions of Jack Welch coming back to life in many of his employees. As one insider put it to me, under Calhoun and his handpicked deputies, Boeing became so consumed by production goals that theyre missing them, as Calhoun failed to lead a needed cultural change from one of production efficiency and profit to one of excellence and safety, and tripled down on that approach. Sadly, the spillover cannot be reversed overnight: Even now, amidst heightened safety focus, stunningly, when FAA Chairman Mike Whitaker toured the Renton, Washington factory this month, he was surprised by how little focus there was on safety and quality.

No quick fixes for governance turbulence: The pros and cons of top CEO candidates

Now, the Boeing board is having to reckon with the difficult consequences of the tradeoffs made by Calhoun as their neglect of culture, safety, and quality catches up to thema task made doubly hard by the depletion of the ranks of potential internal successor candidates. The proof is in the pudding: The board has allowed Calhoun to stay on as CEO until the end of the year, with presumably at least some ability to influence his own succession, which speaks to how completely the senior executive ranks have been hollowed out on his watch. If there were a more obvious successor candidate with genuine operational expertise, Calhoun would probably already be out. But that does not mean the Board does not still need to make a change sooner.

There is similarly no obvious external successor candidate, leaving the Boeing CEO race wide open for the first time in decades. Each of some of the top candidates floated bring their own pros and cons. We evaluate five of them with deep aviation and aerospace backgroundsbut the field could not be more fluid and new entrants will surely emerge in the weeks and months ahead, including possible entrants from outside the aviation industry.

1. Stephanie Pope, the newly appointed CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes

Executive vice president of The Boeing Company and president and chief executive officer of Boeing Global Services Stephanie Pope gives a press conference at the ParisLe Bourget Airport, on June 20, 2023. (Photo by Geoffroy VAN DER HASSELT / AFP) (Photo by GEOFFROY VAN DER HASSELT/AFP via Getty Images)

Pope is widely rumored to be the leading internal candidate as Calhouns handpicked successor, but many insiders weve spoken to question whether she has the genuine operational expertise to run Boeing. For decades, Pope was a midlevel finance executive working under Greg Smith, the longtime Chief Financial Officer of Boeing, but her career was turbocharged after Calhoun arrived. In the span of four short years, she leapfrogged legions of more experienced executives with rapid successive promotions to CFO of Boeing Commercial, president of Boeing Global Services, Boeing COO, and now CEO of Boeing Commercial, her most challenging assignment yet.

Popes prospects could not be more directly aligned with how well and how soon Boeing can address the immediate safety crises and restore the faith of the flying public, customers, and regulators. If Boeing continues to struggle, it is hard to see the board going for anyone internal as Calhouns successor. Furthermore, any internal candidates could find themselves distracted by the ongoing criminal inquiry into Boeing, regardless of their own personal culpability or lack thereof.

2. Greg Smith, the former Chief Financial Officer of Boeing

Boeing Chief Financial Officer Greg Smith addresses a "Boeing Business Update" press conference on the first day of the International Paris Air Show on June 17, 2019 at Le Bourget Airport, near Paris. (Photo by ERIC PIERMONT / AFP) (Photo credit should read ERIC PIERMONT/AFP via Getty Images)

In all our conversations with Boeing insiders, current and former, we kept hearing one name over and over again: Greg Smith. Ive never met Smith, but was surprised to find how his popularity uniquely transcends divisions and ranks across the Boeing workforce.

A three-decade veteran of Boeing who served as Chief Financial Officer until his retirement in 2021, Smith is now chair of American Airlines, providing him a continued front-row seat to Boeings operational woes.

Despite coming from a financial background, we hear Smith has deep knowledge of the operational side of the business. Other dynamo CFOs with deep grounding in their organization such as Indra Nooyi at Pepsi, Safra Catz at Oracle, and James Gorman at Morgan Stanley successfully navigated the transition from CFO to CEO painlessly. Like them, Smith could be seen as a genuine Boeing veteran and insider without being too closely attached to the incumbent Calhoun regime, though whether this is a good or a bad thing for Smiths prospects will depend on how well Boeing can navigate its way back to public credibility in the months ahead. A return to Boeing for Smith would be akin to the highly successful return to Coca-Cola of Neville Isdell as CEO in 2004.

3. David Gitlin, the CEO of Carrier Global

David Gitlin, chief executive officer of Carrier Global Corp., attends a meeting with US President Joe Biden and business and labor leaders in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington, DC, US, on Friday, Nov. 18, 2022. Biden will discuss ways to tackle inflation and shore up the economy with the CEOs of Ford Motor Co., Carrier Global Corp. and Kaiser Permanente, as well as labor officials. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Gitlins key advantage doubles as the key knock against him. He has been a member of the Boeing board for two years, and he could almost be too knowledgeable about Boeings safety challenges given his prior experiences even before joining the Boeing board. He has impressive credentials as the very effective president of Aerospace Customers & Business Development; president of Auxiliary Power, Engine & Control Systems; VP and general manager of Hamilton Sundstrand Power Systems; VP of Pratt & Whitney programs, and general manager of Rolls-Royce/General Electric programs. Gitlin also served in roles at the corporate office of United Technologies Corporation and Pratt & Whitney.

As the former president of Collins Aerospace before joining Carrier Global, Gitlins candidacy may be questioned, whether rightly or wrongly, due to his perceived association with the MCAS system manufactured by Collins and notorious for its role in two fatal accidents of the 737 MAX in 2018 and 2019, which killed nearly 350 people.

Gitlins supporters argue that his intimate experience with Boeings woes across the entire supply chain makes him the most qualified for the job, but Gitlins detractors argue that his prior track record hardly inspires confidence that he can clean up Boeings safety culture.

4. Raymond Conner, the former CEO of Boeing Commercial

Raymond "Ray" Conner, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, attends a news conference after a test flight of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft operated by All Nippon Airways Co. (ANA) at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Japan, on Sunday, April 28, 2013. Boeing's 787 Dreamliner, which resumed flights after a more than three-month hiatus, is safe even while the cause of a battery defect remains uncertain, the aircraft manufacturer said. Photographer: Tomohiro Ohsumi/Bloomberg via Getty Images

One candidate whose name we have heard is Raymond Conner, who was the revered longtime CEO of Boeing Commercial until his retirement in 2017, after he was passed over in the CEO succession sweepstakes.

Conner has indisputable operating knocks as the last truly successful CEO of Boeing Commercialthe last two CEOs, Kevin McAllister and Stan Deal, both left amidst troubled situationsbut the biggest knock on Conner will surely be his age as he approaches septuagenarian status. If Boeing is looking for a transitional CEO who can bring continuity and credibility from the pre-Calhoun era, few would be better suited than Conner.

5. Marc Allen, the former president of Boeing International

Another promising candidate whose name we heard floated, but of a very different type, was Marc Allen, the former president of Boeing International and Chief Strategy Officer. A star lawyer who came up through the ranks of Boeings legal organization after a Supreme Court clerkship, Allen was widely seen as a rising star until Calhouns ascension, at which point he was effectively cast into the wilderness with his Strategy division marginalized before being effectively disbanded.

Allen is polished, and interfaces seamlessly with the government and public stakeholders whose confidence will be so vital to the restoration of Boeings reputation, but even Allens boosters acknowledge he may not have the operational background and expertise Boeing is seeking at a moment of such heightened scrutiny.

Calhoun, an honorable man, wanted the CEO position when his predecessor was removedand he is not leaving on his own schedule. Given his complex sentiments and agenda, the board should not have involved him in the selection of a successor, which should be on an accelerated schedule. The airlines have already shown their diminished regard for Calhoun by demanding meetings with the board without his presence. That is not an endorsement from Boeings customers. Calhoun is also not revered among his employees. Having studied patterns of CEO succession for 45 years, I can assert that Calhouns agenda may not be in perfect alignment with the board and shareholders at this point in time.

While all of these candidates have their own strengths and drawbacks, one thing is clear: Ultimately, no matter who is selected, their #1 priority will be to fortify the weakened safety culture and reassure airline customers, regulators, and the flying public that Boeing is once again trustworthy. Ironically for a company long accustomed to managing for financial results, the companys financial viability is on the line, with approximately $100 billion in revenues tied up due to the FAA holding up approval for the 737 Max 7s and 10s.

Getting governance right will be a strong step in the right direction as Boeing tries to get their planes off the ground and their heads out of the clouds.

Jeffrey Sonnenfeld is the Lester Crown Professor in Management Practice and Founder and President of the Yale Chief Executive Leadership Institute. In 2023, he was named Management Professor of the Year by Poets & Quants magazine.

Steven Tian is the director of research at the Yale Chief Executive Leadership Institute and a former quantitative investment analyst with the Rockefeller Family Office.

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Hawaii state senators challenge Maui County's ability to investigate wildfires impartially. Calls for independent probe amid conflict concerns.

In the wake of the devastating wildfires that razed Lahaina last August, Hawaii state senators are raising significant doubts about Mauis ability to conduct an impartial inquiry, citing ongoing lawsuits involving the county and Hawaiian Electric.

Sen. Glenn Wakai (D), Chair of Public Safety, rebuked the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for its passive stance, asserting that investigating incidents like the Lahaina fire falls within its jurisdiction.

The (state attorney general) has asked us for money to do their investigation. I mean, this is kind of your wheelhouse, chided Wakai. You should have asked us for money, figured out who you need to contact, and then tell us what the price tag is for that investigation. But you did nothing in the area.

Henry Curtis, executive director of Life of the Land and a prominent alternative energy advocate, criticized the PUC for not initiating an investigative process as mandated by law.

The law clearly states that the Public Utilities Commission must open a proceeding to investigate the fire. The benefit is not only what happened but how to prevent it in the future, Curtis said. Its been seven months since the fire occurred. And we need answers, and the Public Utilities Commission is the place to open a proceeding.

More: How did the wildfires start in Maui? A combination of factors fueled disaster

Colin Yost, a member of the PUC Commission, explained that while the agency is examining the role of electrical equipment and other factors, they're waiting for the conclusions of other ongoing investigations before taking further action.

We dont have the resources to really engage in that kind of effective counterpoint, the commissioner said.

The PUC is facing increasing pressurefrom Congress and local lawmakers alikefor answers following the release of footage showing electric lines igniting brush on August 8. The wildfires resulted in more than 100 deaths, displaced over 8,000 residents, and caused an estimated $5.5 billion in damages to the island.

Concerns persist regarding the impartiality of Maui Countys investigation, particularly as the county is embroiled in lawsuits with Hawaiian Electric and is also a defendant in numerous lawsuits related to the fire.

More: Donald Trump is selling $60 Bibles as he seeks funds for for campaign, legal bills

Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole (D) raised the issue of a potential conflict of interest, pointing out that Maui County is responsible for conducting the causation investigation. Yost refrained from presuming a conflict until the report was issued, drawing criticism from Keohokalole for his passive approach.

The County of Maui is implicated in most, I think every lawsuit thats been filed by attorneys on behalf of fire victims, Keohokalole said. Dont you see a conflict of interest presented by the fact that Maui County is responsible for the causation investigation?

Im not certain that I can determine whether or not a conflict exists, said Yost.

State Attorney General Anne Lopezs (D) office announced earlier this month that the findings of the first phase of a state investigation into how government agencies handled the devastating wildfires will be delayed until April 17.

The delay is due, in part, to the 64 subpoenas sent to Maui County since November to help the Fire Safety Research Institute get interviews with police and firefighters, Maui Emergency Management Agency officials, and other local officials.

Jeremy Yurow is a politics reporting fellow based in Hawaii for the USA TODAY Network. You can reach him at JYurow@gannett.com or on X @JeremyYurow

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Hawaii lawmakers doubt Maui County's impartiality in wildfire probe
Amit Soussana has become the first Israeli woman to speak publicly about enduring what she says was a sexual assault and other forms of violence during her 55 days in captivity following the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, according to reporting by The New York Times on Tuesday.

Abducted from her home by at least 10 men, Soussana said she was subjected to a horrifying series of events that saw her beaten and dragged into Gaza. The details of Soussanas captivity paint a grim picture of her suffering; from being locked alone and chained by her ankle to being forced into performing sexual acts under the threat of a gun, according to The New York Times.

Soussana, a lawyer, was released in late November of 2023 as part of an exchange of hostages in Gaza who were kidnapped during the Hamas attack for Palestinian prisoners.

Amit Soussanas courageous testimony detailing her horrific captivity is one of many harrowing accounts from hostages held by Hamas, the Hostages Families Forum said in a statement.

It added, Amit is a hero, as are all hostages enduring this living hell for 172 agonizing days. We must bring these brave women and men home before it is too late.

Soussanas eight hours of interviews with The New York Times shed light on the psychological and physical torment she said she experienced at the hands of her captors, offering extensive details of her ordeal across several locations in Gaza, including in private homes and a subterranean tunnel.

Several days into her captivity, she said, her guard began asking about her sex life.

Soussana said she was held alone in a childs bedroom, chained by her left ankle. Sometimes, the guard would enter, sit beside her on the bed, lift her shirt and touch her, she told The New York Times.

Soussana added that the guard repeatedly asked when her period was due. When her period ended, around Oct. 18, she tried to put him off by pretending that she was bleeding for nearly a week.

Around October 24, the guard, who called himself Muhammad, attacked her, she said.

Early that morning, she said, Muhammad unlocked her chain and left her in the bathroom. After she undressed and began washing herself in the bathtub, Muhammad returned and stood in the doorway, holding a pistol.

He came towards me and shoved the gun at my forehead, Soussana recalled. After hitting Soussana and forcing her to remove her towel, Muhammad groped her, sat her on the edge of the bathtub and hit her again, The New York Times reported, citing Soussana.

A view from inside the destroyed house of released hostage Amit Soussana, kidnapped during the deadly October 7 attack by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, at the Kibbutz Kfar Aza in Israel on January 29, 2024. - Alexandre Meneghini/Reuters/File

Dr. Ayelet Levy Shachar, mother of 19-year-old hostage Naama Levy, who was captured on video being dragged by her hair from the back of a Jeep at gunpoint in Gaza, her sweatpants stained with blood said, Amits horrifying testimony is more proof that our loved ones in Gaza endure physical, sexual, and psychological torture every single day. Each day there is like an eternity.

She said what happened to Amit is the same nightmare so many other hostages, women and men, are facing every day in captivity. Maybe even at this very moment. We are begging  their lives hang in the balance. Bring our daughters and all our loved ones back to us now  before it is too late.

Earlier in March, the United Nations published a report indicating that rape and gang rape, among other acts of sexual violence, likely occurred during the October 7 Hamas attack and said there was clear and convincing evidence that hostages were raped while being held in Gaza, and that those currently held captive are still facing such abuse.

Hamas official Basem Naim denied the UN report of sexual assaults in an interview with CNN earlier this month.

On Tuesday, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that Soussana speaks for all those who cannot speak. She speaks for all the victims of Hamas despicable sexual crimes and abuse. She speaks for all women everywhere, according to a post on his X account commenting on The New York Times article.

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Michael Jacksons mother Katherine Jackson has fired back at her grandson Bigi, amid their ongoing legal battle.

Bigi, 22, (who is Jacksons youngest son and previously known as Blanket) asked the court to block his grandmother from using her late sons estate money for her legal expenses.

According to court documents obtained by Us Weekly, Katherine, 93, is looking to use the estate money to pay for an ongoing legal battle.

Bigi and Katherine initially teamed up against the executors of Jacksons estate after they planned to use his money for an undisclosed business deal with Sony. However, Katherine has now changed her mind.

Michael Jackson's Kids: Where Are They Now?

But while court docs reveal that Bigi is against the use of the estates money for his grandmothers legal challenge, he is amenable to the estate covering reasonable attorney fees and costs related to her objections to the Sony transaction.

Katherine responded in a new filing, obtained by People, in which she maintains that the estate, valued at $1.5 billion, can afford to pay her legal fees and should do so.

Kevin Winter/Getty Images

She has formally contested the move insisting that the executors of Michaels estate are financially equipped to support her request for $500,000 to cover her legal fees.

The Jackson matriarchs documents state that the estate is well-endowed with hundreds of millions of dollars that would remain for the beneficiaries even after her legal expenses are met.

Katherine also says theres a deepening rift over the management and distribution of Michaels fortune.

Everything We Know About the Upcoming Michael Jackson Biopic

Since the Thriller legends passing in 2009, Katherine has received over $55 million, a significant portion of which is from a monthly allowance which has amounted to $33 million.

The estates executors argue that she therefore has enough resources to independently finance her legal endeavors.

Bigi was born via surrogate in 2002, via a surrogate. His siblings Paris, 25, and Prince, 27, are believed to be in support of his latest move.

Jackson died at age 50 in June 2009 after suffering a cardiac arrest in his Los Angeles home. Two years after his sudden death, it was determined that he died from a propofol overdose, which was administered by his doctor, Conrad Murray, who has since been convicted of involuntary manslaughter.
Newly minted Republican National Committee co-chair Lara Trump said Tuesday that she believes the party is "past" litigating the 2020 election, comments that come as her father-in-law, former President Donald Trump, prepares to face two juries on charges alleging that he illegally tried to overturn the 2020 election results.

"I think were past that. I think thats in the past," Lara Trump told NBC News when she was asked whether it will be the RNC's position that the 2020 election was not fairly decided.

"The past is the past, and unfortunately, we had to learn a couple of hard lessons in 2020," she continued. "Believe me, we are applying them all across this country in every single state, and we want to ensure that, indeed, every single legal vote is counted.

Lara Trumps comments illustrate a key dynamic in the Republican Party in 2024: As she sought to cast the 2020 election as in the past and champion voting by mail, re-litigating the 2020 election, repeating false claims it was stolen and casting aspersions on the security of mail voting remain major fixtures for her father-in-law on the stump.

Last weekend, meanwhile, the former president said the man accused of killing Georgia nursing student Laken Riley wouldnt have been in America if the election werent rigged, because we didnt allow people like that into our country.

He regularly refers to the 2020 election as rigged on his social media channels. And, most critically, he faces charges in Washington, D.C., and Georgia related to his attempts to overturn the election results.

NBC News correspondent Garrett Haake interviews Lara Trump. (Frank Thorp V / NBC News)

Lara Trump has previously and publicly backed unfounded claims about the 2020 election made by her father-in-law and other allies. Days after the 2020 election, she posted on social media casting doubt on Dominion voting machines (Dominion settled with Fox News for more than $700 million after it sued alleging the network allowed defamatory claims about the company to proliferate on the network). A month later, she posted again casting doubt on the election results in Michigan.

Trump pointed to dozens of lawsuits the RNC has filed over election administration (most recently in Nevada, where the party is suing the state over its voter rolls) as examples of how the committee is wading into questions about election laws ahead of November.

Asked about the former presidents past comments undercutting mail-in voting, Lara Trump said he is singing a different tune.

Well, I actually think if you talk to him right now, you will see that he is very much embracing early voting, she said.

I think that the message that the people of this country have sent to Donald Trump, and you saw it in the primaries, is that they want to get out and they want to vote for him as soon as they possibly can, she continued. And if that means Day 1 of early voting for people, hes very happy for them to go out and do it.

New leadership at the RNC

Lara Trump officially stepped into the role of co-chair this month at the RNC's spring meeting, after former chair Ronna McDaniel and co-chair Drew McKissick stepped aside for the leadership team blessed by Donald Trump. Former North Carolina GOP chair Michael Whatley is now the group's chairman, the top slot at the national party organization.

Asked what she would say to voters wary of a Trump takeover of the RNC, Lara Trump made an appeal based on her experience on the past Trump campaigns, noting that her father-in-law had tasked her to help him win her home state, North Carolina, twice.

Lara Trump, co-chair of the Republican National Committee (Frank Thorp V / NBC News)

I have had so much experience," she said. "If you look at the fact that I am one of very few people who can say that I have been part of now three presidential campaigns, the media exposure and experience that we in the Trump family have had over the past eight years rivals most people who make their career in politics.

I think the reason that Im here is to assure people who ever had any question as to how their money is being spent, can they trust the RNC? Can they donate to this entity?" Trump added. "Trust me, I am the daughter-in-law of Donald Trump. I will ensure that every penny of every dollar is going to causes that Republican voters care about.

And asked about her message to Republican voters who backed other GOP presidential candidates, like former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, she framed the election as a binary choice for Republicans who don't want President Joe Biden re-elected.

"They don't want to vote for Joe Biden, that's for sure. The option is Joe Biden or Donald Trump," she said. "Whether you like his personality or not should not have any bearing on anything. They are welcome to come back. We are here to work as a party."

Before she officially joined the RNC, Lara Trump told Newsmax that "every single penny will go to the number one and the only job of the RNC  that is electing Donald J. Trump," and said Republican voters would be interested in paying the former president's mounting legal bills.

She has since broadened that view in more recent interviews, and she told NBC News that down-ballot races are key priorities, too.

"Well, the No. 1 job of the RNC is to, of course, support the Republican candidate for president. That is Donald Trump. But of course, we are paying attention to all about down-ballot races, as well," she said.

"The truth is, it's great if we win the presidency, and I think that's imperative, but we also want to expand our lead in the House. We want to take back the Senate. So we are paying very close attention to all those races. We will be supporting [them] in a very big way."

Lara Trump, co-chair of the Republican National Committee (Frank Thorp V / NBC News)

And she added that the RNC "does not support paying [the former president's] legal bills," while she defended a new joint fundraising agreement between the RNC and the former president that will help fund a committee used to pay his legal bills without the RNCs having to give money itself.

"If you've never had to hire a lawyer, you're doing great stuff, you're in great shape, I'm very happy for you," she said, adding that any Trump donors who don't want their money going to the former president's legal bills can "opt out" and direct their money to the campaign and the party, instead.

Lara Trump also went on to briefly address two key issues dividing Republicans both on the campaign trail and on Capitol Hill.

On abortion, she called the Supreme Court decision that struck down the federal protection for abortion rights and kicked the issue to the states "the most democratic thing, and she threw cold water on the idea that her father-in-law might support a federal ban around 15 or 16 weeks.

I think if you asked him now, I think he would say he agrees with allowing the states to decide, she said.

Donald Trump said last week on WABC radio of New York City that "people are agreeing on 15 [weeks], and I'm thinking in terms of that," though he added later in the interview that "everyone agrees" abortion "shouldn't be a federal issue  it's a state issue."

And about whether to continue to provide funding for Ukraine in its war against Russia, she said that "we take our notes from Donald Trump" but argued that "a lot of Americans are very upset with sending all of our money overseas. We should put every single American first and make sure that we are taking care of our own country first before we consider funding anything overseas."
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Not long after Cameron Russell traveled to New York to meet with a modeling agent, her rep called her back to tell her shed booked a job. Russell was 16 and supposed to be in class, but the gig paid $5,000. Her mother made plans for her to call in sick, she remembers in her candid and beautiful new memoir, How to Make Herself Agreeable to Everyone: A day of school could never be worth more than five thousand dollars.

Minus the expense of travel and a night in a cheap model apartment, that job netted Russell $4,900. In the book, she recalls thinking about that number for most of the ride from her native Cambridge, Massachusetts, to New York. In her planner, she wrote out an equation: How long would it take a minimum-wage worker to earn the check she will get for a single photo shoot?

There are teenagers who would be nervous about posing for pictures and others who would be excited about the prospect of fame and success, but Russell was the kind of teenagerand remains the kind of womanwho does the math: Who gains when people like her get ahead? And who loses?

More opportunities followed the shoot. Russell has walked for brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Bottega Veneta. She has appeared in countless magazines, including this one. She did the normal supermodel stuff: J.Crew catalogs, major ad campaigns, commercials. She also did some less normal supermodel stuff: She enrolled at Wellesley College and later transferred to Columbia University, where she majored in economics and political science. She delivered a TED Talk titled Looks Arent Everything. Believe Me, Im a Model, which became one of the organizations most-watched speeches. She used her Instagram as a platform to share stories when the #MeToo movement was just kicking off and helped draw attention to vicious inequities and abuse within the fashion world.

WWD - Getty Images

Now Russell is a climate activist, a dedicated organizer, and an author. How To Make Herself Agreeable to Everyone is less linear tell-all than sweeping meditation on power, beauty, complicity, exploitation, and control. Its a confrontational critique of the business that made Russell a star, but it doesnt exonerate its writer either. Russell scrutinizes her own efforts to please photographers and fashion power brokers at the expense of her values, and she documents what happened after she stopped. She wonders: Is it possible to integrate her identities as a model and an organizer? Can she (can we) participate in a capitalist marketplace and at the same time work to dismantle it?

I tried to write the book and be transparent about these choices, Russell explains. The tradeoffs, the ambiguities, the equivocationsshe addresses all of them. But she knows that some readers will see in her deliberations a kind of excuse. Thats fine. She wrote the book to describe how she has arrived at the place where she is now. Its a recounting of not just how she got to this point, but also how she landed on her principles. Yes, most of us are complicit, she acknowledges. But that doesnt give us permission to throw up her hands in the face of structural sexism, racism, and injustice. Russell asks: How do we see ourselves outside of and inside of the system? If there were easy answers, wed have them already.

Shop Now How to Make Herself Agreeable to Everyone by Cameron Russell goodreads.com $182.00

On publishing her memoir

Im just trying to return to that first moment when I was writing when I was like, Maybe I should make this public. I am trying to get back in touch with why I wanted to do that. I wrote a lot of itmaybe half of italmost five years ago. And then I wrote the rest in the beginning of the pandemic. And now Im thinking, How does this respond to this moment that were in? How is this working with what is happening? Like a lot of people, I go to work, I have to perform, and I go to bed. But then I think about all these things that I dont bring into the workplace or into public, and this book was a place to put those things. Maybe it will be meaningful and feel like company for people who are also feeling that way.

On support from other women

The two moments that I could be one of the most public voices for my profession were when I gave the TED Talk and around the #MeToo movement. In both of those moments, I felt an enormous amount of support from behind the scenes.

After the TED Talk, I remember people like Jamia Wilson, Jaclyn Friedman, Brittney Cooperall these feminist media makers were like, I see you, and when our paths crossed, they gave me such concrete, tangible guidance. I named three names, but if I sat down, I could come up with 35 people who did this for me. Having had that experience and knowing how valuable it is, its encouraged me to always show up for other people. No matter how public a person is or no matter how much support they may have, when you see them stepping out, you show up.

On modeling as labor

What I first thought was very unique to modeling is this idea that when people find out what my job is, theyre not like, Oh, you work as a model. Theyre like, Youre a model. I think theres something universal in that. My sister is a doctor, people are like, Shes a doctor! When we meet people, one of our first questions is, What do you do? And in our culture, that becomes who they are.

I take issue with that. Its a way of saying, Because you are this thing, you have to embody this thing. No, thats a performance. Yes, its a skilled performance, but to simply say that what we do is who we are removes some of the power from folks. If its who we are, then its easy. I dont agree.

On her role model

My mom is a force. She is super adventurous. When I was a kid, whenever we were going anywhere, she always took me on the sneaky path. Even when I was three or four, she was taking me on two-mile walks. Every single day, she has that hunger. How am I going to live today? How is this going to be an adventure?

I once asked my mom what was different about working in her twenties and thirties versus her forties and fifties, and she said she trusted her intuition more. It wasnt that she couldnt hear her intuition in her twenties and thirties, its just that she came to have more trust for it. Now at least when I dont listen, I know Im not listening to it.

Dave Benett - Getty Images

On measuring success

There have been times in my career when Ive been working almost every day, including weekends. I found it hard to get my footing because I would be offered a job and I would just think, how can I turn that down? I have to take it. Thats what success is. When I started writing the book, I was in Los Angeles for a job and I decided to extend the trip. I turned stuff down for two weeks to write and to think about the choices that I was making. It was confusing because at that point, folks were offering me a lot of money for these jobs. And in our world, money speaks really, really loudly. You start to think even if you dont need this money, youre so aware there is someone else who does. Those first two weeks felt really hard and obviously hard in the most privileged sense.

On ambition

I see ambition as building power with relationships. I think a lot of what matters is far from what our culture and economy value, and its so invisible in so many ways. I think it is really ambitious to show up for the people around you and that work is quiet. Checking in on people, making time to support people and have long conversations and cook food for people and take care of other peoples children and take care of your own children and take care of your parentsthat requires so much ambition.

But our culture isnt sending us the right signals. My mom and my grandmother are not going to call me and be like, Oh my gosh, congratulations. You woke up five times overnight with your two-year-old. You are doing it! Theyre going to call me if Im on the cover of a magazine. At the same time, our bodies know what is fulfilling. Our bodies know what feels liberating, what makes us feel loved and safe.

Dave Benett - Getty Images

On fun

There are so many things about fashion that are lovely and fun, and theres so much about work that can be fun. A lot of that has to do just with the people who are together, being playful, being creative. We can be critical of a thing and still enjoy it. That goes for every other part of our lives so why not here?

A version of this article appears in the April 2024 issue of ELLE.

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A dog owner in Jacksonville, Florida, got the shock of his life after his canine dug up an unexploded military bomb in his backyard. Reports say the bomb squad was called in to remove the rusty military weapon, which was roughly one foot long and weighed about 10 pounds.

Dog finds unexploded military weapon while digging in their backyard

According to WWNYTV 7News, the Florida canine made the rare discovery on Mar. 20. The dogs owner, Matthew Sims, said he was in the backyard playing with his child when he came across something sticking out on the ground. His dog had been digging in that spot. As he tried to pull the mysterious object out of the ground, it suddenly dawned on him that it, was, in fact, a military weapon.

You couldnt tell what it was until you started to pull it up, Sims shared. Once I got it halfway out, I was like, Oh, I know what this is, let me gently put this back down.'

Sims further revealed: It was like buried at least six inches deep. But then like half of it or at least two inches up.

Immediately, Sims reported the discovery of the mysterious military weapon. He told authorities it had fins in the back, has rusted metal and it was shaped like a torpedo as per Yahoo News reporting. Shortly after, the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office and other units, including the bomb squad, arrived at the scene.

Authorities established that the unexploded military bomb had been underground for decades, owing to how decayed it was. Wasting no time, they evacuated residents living nearby before removing the weapon from Sims property.

Carla Smith, a neighbor, witnessed the bomb squad swinging into action. Surprisingly, she said the discovery did not scare her.

To me, it was interesting to watch, Smith stated. They did their thing, and they were out of here in minutes.

The post Dog Digs Up Unexploded Military Weapon in Florida appeared first on DogTime.
(Photo Credit: Linda Raymond | Getty Images)

A DoorDash driver rescued a stray puppy wandering the streets in Andover, Massachusetts. On a routine delivery run, the unidentified driver spotted the canine and took swift action to ensure the dogs safety. Upon noticing the pup, the driver promptly approached a nearby residence, believing it might belong to the occupants, in an effort to reunite the lost dog with their family.

Stray puppy currently in polices care as they await owner to show up

The driver was completing a delivery on Acorn Drive when he noticed the stray puppy, as CBS Boston reports. Subsequently, he knocked on the door of a nearby residence as he presumed that the dog belonged to the occupants. However, the dog wasnt theirs, and they said that they would try to find the owner through social media.

Since the family contacted the police and brought the dog in, the pup is under the care of Officer Katie Kozikowski. Currently, authorities are actively searching for the rightful owner of the puppy.

In addition, the puppy has an injury to one of her front legs. However, it remains unclear whether it is recent or congenital. Upon arrival, she lacked both a microchip and a collar, and thus far, no one has come forward to claim her.

Officer Kozikowski said, Its surprising to me that if someone was missing a 10-12-week-old puppy, they havent contacted anyone yet.

Continuing, she added, Her front right leg, she wasnt able to put any pressure on it. It doesnt seem extremely painful right now, which is good.

Following protocol, the puppy will stay at the police station for seven days, allowing her owner an opportunity to step forward. Subsequently, she will transition to foster care before commencing the search for a permanent home.

In another incident in May 2023, a DoorDash driver went viral on TikTok. She claimed that she got a Pit Bull puppy while she was delivering a customers package.

The post Stray Puppy Delivered by DoorDash Driver in Massachusetts appeared first on DogTime.
"He knows how much I love Peeps, so going to the Peeps Sweet Suite was special enough, but this was the icing on the cake!" Carly Jessup said of her fiance's surprise

Mark Stehle Photography for PEEPS Matthew Rivera proposes to Carly Jessup in Peeps' Sweet Suite

A Georgia man planned a sweet surprise for his Peeps-loving girlfriend!

Just ahead of the Easter holiday, Matthew Rivera took his college sweetheart Carly Jessup on a trip to the Philadelphia area to stay in the popular marshmallow candy brand's exclusive Sweet Suite at the Home2 Suites by Hilton hotel in Easton, Pa., according to a Peeps press release. He surprised Jessup, 28, by getting down on one knee and popping the question  with the help of a wingman: the Peeps chick mascot.

For a limited time from March 18-29, the Sweet Suite  which has been decked out with custom-made Peeps decor and stocked with Peeps treats and merch  is hosting fans for a one- or two-night stay.

Mark Stehle Photography for PEEPS Matthew Rivera proposes to Carly Jessup

Related: They Both Said Yes! Couple Surprises Each Other by Proposing at the Same Time

When Rivera, 27, heard about the suite, he rushed to book a stay for himself and Jessup, who has been collecting Peeps items for more than 20 years, since she was a young girl.

"[She] has one of the largest collections I have ever seen," Rivera said in the release. "We were looking to take a trip somewhere, and I knew the opportunity to stay in a fully 'PEEPed-out' hotel room would be a dream for Carly. Philadelphia is nearby and was on our bucket list of cities to visit, so it was a perfect opportunity."

Mark Stehle Photography for PEEPS Matthew Rivera and Carly Jessup

Rivera said that just days after booking the suite "the wheels starting turning" and he realized the trip presented "a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to pull off a really special proposal for Jessup. He reached out to the customer service line for Just Born Inc., Peeps' parent company, and the team there jumped right in and helped Rivera with the proposal arrangements.

"The people at Peeps have been incredible, and helped me iron out even the smallest details," Rivera said.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

When the big moment arrived, the couple was getting ready in the colorful suite when there was a knock on the door. The Peeps chick entered carrying a basket containing a bejeweled Peeps chick.

"Its a bit of a blur, but before I knew it, [Rivera] got down on one knee very sweetly to propose," Jessup recalled in the release. "I was very surprised!"

Mark Stehle Photography for PEEPS Matthew Rivera and Carly Jessup pose with the Peeps chick

Related: Bride Goes Viral After Her Fiance Proposed and Surprised Her with a Wedding on the Same Day!

She said her now-fiance couldn't have planned a more perfect proposal. "He knows how much I love Peeps, so going to the Peeps Sweet Suite this March was special enough, but this was the icing on the cake!" added Jessup, whose favorite Peeps candy flavor is sour watermelon.

She and Rivera  who is partial to Peeps' classic yellow chick marshmallows  first met in college when they were paired up for a class project. "I [already] had developed a huge crush on her. I thought she was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen," Rivera recalled.

They reconnected a few years later, and Rivera asked Jessup out on a date  "and the rest is history," he said.

"What I love most about Carly goes beyond her looks. She has the most genuine, loving heart of anyone I have ever met," Rivera raved of his fiancee. "She inspires me to become the best person and partner every day because she deserves nothing less."

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After two bodies were recovered from the waters under the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, officials on March 27 called off the recovery mission due to dangerous conditions, shifting to a salvage operation following the harrowing collapse of the bridge that was struck by a container ship on March 26.

Authorities located a red pickup truck about 25 feet under the water's surface and recovered two victims inside during the recovery mission, but have since called off the search for the remaining four victims, citing dangerous debris in the water.

The bodies of the victims were identified as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, according to officials.

Jennifer Homendy, chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, said during a press conference on March 27 investigators were able to board the 985-foot ship that struck the bridge and start initial interviews with some of the crew members.

"Its just utter devastation," Homendy said of the cargo ship, which was still covered in mangled metal from the bridge.

Homendy confirmed to NBC News earlier on March 27 the NTSB had recovered the ships voyage data recorder, which would play a vital role in the boards investigation.

The initial timeline showed alarms sounding on the ship around 1:24 a.m., and the pilot making an urgent call for any tugboats nearby to assist two minutes later. The pilot radioed again one a minute later, saying the ship had lost all power, until it struck the bridge two minutes after.

Police dispatch audio showed officers radioed to stop traffic on the bridge less than 30 seconds after the distress call, and discussed the construction crew on the bridge moments before it collapsed.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore described how one of the two survivors of the collapse was able to walk away from the bridge before the cargo ship collided with it during a March 27 press conference.

"As he was moving off of the bridge, (he) literally saw the bridge fall right after he moved off," Moore said. "It was because it was a first responder, who was telling him to move off the bridge."

Maryland governor says he's committed to helping families of victims find 'closure'

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said on TODAY on March 27 he had met with the families of the six victims of the collapse, who were part of a construction crew working on potholes on the bridge.

"The commitment that I made to the families was that we would put every possible resource towards a search and rescue mission," Moore said. "But now that we transition to a recovery mission, I'm going to make sure that we're gonna put every possible resource to bring a sense of closure to these families."

Moore said "early indications" showed authorities were able to notify the construction workers of the incoming container ship, a 985-foot vessel called Dali registered under a Singaporean flag, and that officials were able to stop traffic from crossing the bridge shortly before the ship collided with it.

"These first responders who moved to both alert people who were there on the bridge, and then also be able to stop the traffic flow  this was true heroism," Moore said. "When we say that that we are we are Maryland tough, and we are Baltimore strong ... that exemplifies that with these first responders."

He added: "The fact that they were able to get cars off of the bridge and move cars off of the bridge  they saved countless lives that night. And so we're incredibly thankful for the work that they did."

On March 26, officials said a mayday call was issued before a container ship struck a pillar of the bridge  a decision Moore said "saved lives" during a press conference ahead of the bridge's collapse.

The crew on the vessel were able to notify authorities of a power issue and that they had lost power on the ship, which alerted officials who were able to stop some vehicles from crossing the bridge before the ship collided with it, Moore said.

Once notification came up that there was a mayday, literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, Moore said during the press conference. These people are heroes. They saved lives."

The ship was traveling at about eight knots, which Moore described as a very rapid speed.

Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse (Mark Schiefelbein / AP)

Moore said on TODAY that authorities are investigating what led to the container ship's power outage ahead of the collision, as well as what happened in the aftermath.

The Wall Street Journal reported investigators are looking into whether contaminated fuel, among other leads, played a role in the ship losing control, citing people familiar with the matter.

The Port of Baltimore, a major shipping hub for the country, was shut down indefinitely in the wake of the collapse.

"The economic consequences, they cannot be overstated. And not just for the state of Maryland  we're talking about what this means for the entire country," Moore said. "We're talking about a port that brings on more cars, more trucks, more agricultural equipment than any other port in this country."

The governor said that because the Port of Baltimore is one of the largest ports for international cargo, with "over 51 million tons of foreign cargo" coming through it, its closure "is going to have enormous economic impacts."

"And it's the reason that we're so focused on making sure we get this done right, and get it on quickly to be able to restore this bridge," he said.

When asked about a specific timeline to rebuild the bridge, Moore did not offer specifics but stressed it would be "a complicated effort" due to the "mangled metal underwater."

"This is going to be complicated, it is going to be long and we know that we are going to need the support of everybody on board to be able to get it to completion," he said. "But we are going to get this done."

A recovery mission turned to salvage operation

Emergency personnel had rescued two people on March 26, one in good condition and who refused treatment, while the second was seriously injured and was being treated in a local trauma center, Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace said during a press conference.

On Tuesday evening, Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, told NBC News in a phone interview that six of its workers were presumed dead, and officials later confirmed the search and rescue would be transitioned to a recovery mission.

Maryland Secretary of Transportation Paul Wiedefeld said a crew was working on repairing potholes on the bridge around the time of the collision, and that the repairs didnt have to do with the structural integrity of the bridge.

The bridge was "fully up to code" at the time of the incident, Moore said, adding authorities were still investigating the cause of the impact and collapse. The incident appeared to be an accident and there were no signs of terrorism, Moore said.

"To hear the words that the Key Bridge has collapsed, it's shocking and heartbreaking," Moore said.

"For every single one of us who are Marylanders, the words that the Key Bridge is gone  it still shakes us because for over for 47 years, that's all we've known," he added.

Dramatic video of the incident showed smoke coming from the ship as it collided with a pillar supporting the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which carries Interstate 695 over the Patapsco River south of Baltimore, and a livestream video showed vehicles crossing the bridge just before impact.

Baltimore executive says Key Bridge collapse is 'an absolute tragedy'

Baltimore County Executive John Olszewski called the collapse an "absolute tragedy" and "shock" on TODAY around 7:05 a.m., and said the bridge has been an active scene of activity for emergency responders and other city and state agencies since the bridge collapsed.

"Our primary efforts are around search and rescue right now," Olszewski said. "We have the sun coming up so we can start having our dive teams go in. We're not just doing the surface searches, but we are actively on this scene."

Ship monitoring website MarineTraffic showed a Singapore-flagged container ship called the Dali stopped under the bridge. (Roberto Schmidt / AFP - Getty Images)

Underwater drones showed there were vehicles in the river, Wallace said, but authorities said Tuesday that they do not believe anyone was inside those vehicles.

"The best information we have is that the ship, for whatever reason, whether it's power, or other reason, lost control, ran into the supporting beam of the bridge, which unfortunately caused it to collapse," Olszewski said on TODAY.

There is an active investigation into the cause of the collapse, in addition to the active search and rescue for survivors, Olszewski said.

"We know those answers will come forward, but it's an absolute tragedy," he said. "Our efforts are focused on the search and rescue right now as we try to determine both next steps for traffic for commerce, but really right now our hearts go out to and our thoughts and prayers are with those individuals and families who were affected by this collapse."

When did the ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The U.S. Coast Guard said in a statement to NBC News it received a report that a "motor vessel made impact with the bridge" around 1:27 a.m. ET, and confirmed the ship was a vessel named Dali registered under a Singaporean flag.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge lies in the water, following an impact from a cargo ship. (Baltimore City Fire Department / Rescue 1)

Shipping company Maersk said in a statement to NBC News Dali was operated by another company, Synergy Group, which it had charted to transport its customers' cargo.

"We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected," a spokesperson for Maersk said.

NTSB Chair Homendy said during a press conference on Tuesday afternoon the NTSB was leading the investigation into the 985-foot vessel's collision with the bridge, and the Coast Guard would provide support.

"Before I go on, on behalf of the NTSB, I want to extend our deepest sympathies to those who have been affected by this significant event," Homendy said. "A search and rescue is still underway, so we are very hopeful. And again our thoughts are with the families and their loved ones."

Biden says hes directing his team to move heaven and Earth to reopen port, rebuild bridge

President Joe Biden addressed reporters before 1 p.m. ET about the mornings terrible incident in Baltimore. Biden, who previously represented Delaware for 36 years in the Senate, began by saying he has been over the Key Bridge many, many times before.

He reaffirmed the information from officials earlier in the day that estimates eight people were impacted by the collapse and that six of those individuals are still missing: one person remains in critical condition and the other was not seriously injured and denied treatment. He said the search and rescue operation remains underway.

Biden said he will send all the federal resources to help.

Were going to rebuild that port together, he added.

Biden also said ship traffic through the Port of Baltimore has been suspended until further notice.

Happening Now: President Biden delivers remarks on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. https://t.co/9pXTbw1Bh5  The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 26, 2024

He explained that Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is there now and that he has directed his team to move heaven and Earth so that the port can reopen and the bridge can be rebuilt. Biden also said he expects Congress to support his effort.

Its my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge, he said.

A reporter later asked about the federal government paying despite the ship appearing to be at fault and if the company behind the ship should be responsible.

That could be, but were not going to wait for that to happen, Biden answered.

Were going to pay for it to get the bridge rebuilt and open.

He also said he plans to go to Baltimore as quickly as he can.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Six remaining missing people after a large cargo ship crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday morning were presumed dead by authorities by evening after rescue efforts found only two of the people who fell into the water.

All six unaccounted for victims were identified as construction workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed, the Baltimore Banner reported. At least two were Guatemalan nationals, the countrys foreign ministry said.

Based on the length of time that weve gone in the search, the extensive search efforts that we put into it, the water temperature, that at this point, we do not believe that were going to find any of these individuals still alive, U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said in a press conference around 7:30 p.m. local time.

Maryland Secretary of State Police Col. Roland Butler said at the same press conference that authorities have since transitioned away from search and rescue operations to recovery operations. Surface ships have been deployed overnight with divers set to be deployed at 6:00 a.m. Wednesday to begin a more detailed search to do our very best to recover those six missing people.

James Wallace, chief of Baltimores fire department, said in a press conference that upwards of seven individuals fell into the water after the Dali shipping container vessel crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge at 1:30 a.m. local time. The director of communications for Baltimores fire department, Kevin Cartwright, called it a developing mass casualty event.

During an earlier press conference, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott described the event as an unthinkable tragedy. He added: We have to first and foremost pray for all of those who are impacted, those families, and pray for our first responders and thank them.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said Tuesday that hes authorized the deployment everything from air, land, and sea resources to ensure the search and rescue operation is carried out to its fullest intent. He also noted that theres a long road ahead as the city rebuilds.

The path to normalcy will not be easy, said United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg during a separate Tuesday press conference. It will not be quick. It will not be inexpensive, but we will rebuild together in order to make sure that happens.

He noted that federal agencies are working to address roadway concerns and supply chain impacts. In many ways, our work is just beginning.

Heres what to know about the incident.

What happened?

The Singapore-flagged 948 ft. Dali vessel crashed into a column supporting the Francis Scott Key Bridge at around 1:30 a.m. local time in Baltimore, causing part of the bridge to collapse and catch fire before sinking.

At around 1:40 a.m., the Baltimore City Fire Department received an emergency services call to respond to a water rescue in the Patapsco River, according to fire chief Wallace.

Moore said in a press conference at 10:00 AM EST that preliminary investigations havent found any credible evidence of a terrorist attack. Baltimore Police said there was no evidence that the collision was intentional.

The ships crew issued a mayday call shortly before the crash that allowed authorities to stop vehicles from going on the bridge.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of the container ship Dali after the bridge collapsed, in Baltimore, on March 26, 2024. Jim WatsonAFP/Getty Images

Were thankful that between the mayday and collapse  that we had officials who were able to begin [to] stop the flow of traffic so more cars were not up on the bridge, Moore said.

Several vehicles were on the bridge at the time of impact. At least seven people are believed to have fallen in the water. The Synergy Marine Group, which manages the Dali, has confirmed that all crew members, including its two pilots, are accounted for and unharmed, Reuters reported.

At least 10 commercial ships en route to Baltimore port dropped anchors nearby in the wake of the collision, according to Reuters, which cited tracking and maritime analytics provider MarineTraffic. All lanes remain closed in both directions on I-695 Key Bridge following the incident.

What does the video show?

Footage of the crash was originally shared by Streamtime Live but has since been widely reshared on social media platforms.

BREAKING: Ship collides with Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, causing it to collapse pic.twitter.com/OcOrSjOCRn  BNO News (@BNONews) March 26, 2024

The clip shows fragments of the bridge falling into the Patapsco River, with some parts half submerged in the water and half emerging from it. Vehicles can also be seen falling from the structure.

Longer footage shared on social media showed what appeared to be losses of power on the freighter before it rammed into the bridge.

Recovery operations

Moore issued a statement Tuesday morning declaring a state of emergency and said he is working with an interagency team to deploy resources from the Biden Administration. We are thankful for the brave men and women who are carrying out efforts to rescue those involved and pray for everyones safety, Moore said.

The U.S. Coast Guard is conducting search and rescue for those who remain unaccounted for as a result of the bridge collapse, the White House said in a statement. Senior White House officials are in touch with the governor and mayor to offer any federal assistance they need.

Sonar and infrared technology, as well as underwater unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have been deployed for search and rescue operations. Wallace, the Baltimore fire chief, added that the tides and darkness of the early hours had slowed rescue efforts down.

Few personal details are known about the two who were rescued so far. One individual refused service and refused transport, essentially that person was not injured, Wallace said. However, there was another individual, thats been transported to a local trauma center, that is in a very serious condition.

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld speaks at a press conference about the collapse of the Key Bridge and the rescue operation underway on March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. Jasper ColtUSA Today Network/Reuters

President Joe Biden addressed the collapse at the White House on Tuesday afternoon, saying that, though the search and rescue operation is the highest priority at the moment, the federal government will support the city of Baltimore for as long as it takes to recover.

Its my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge, Biden said. I expect the Congress to support my effort.

What do we know about the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

Opened in 1977, the Francis Scott Key bridge is named after the writer of The Star-Spangled Banner. In 1814, Francis Scott Key wrote the national anthem upon witnessing the British defeat in the Battle of Baltimore.

The bridgewhich cost an estimated $110 million to buildis the outermost of three toll crossings on Baltimores Harbor. The four-lane bridge is 1.6 miles long and crosses over the Patapsco River.

The bridge carries over 11 million vehicles per year and 35,000 commuters per day, and is pivotal for East Coast shipping.

This is no ordinary bridge, Buttigieg said. This is one of the cathedrals of American infrastructure. It has been part of the skyline of this region for longer than many of us have been alive.

What do we know about the vessel?

The Dali vessel, which was chartered by shipping company Maersk, was headed for Colombo, Sri Lanka, and carrying cargo from the company. The vessel sustained damage, a fire department official told CNBC. The cause of the crash has yet to be determined by the firm.

The vessel was previously involved in a 2016 collision in Antwerp, Belgium, according to VesselFinder. While there were no casualties from the 2016 incident, the vessels bow scraped the quay and damaged parts of the hull.

National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy said Tuesday afternoon the agency is standing back to allow search and rescue to take place, but has a team of experts in nautical operations, human performance, and engineering ready to investigate the ships operations and safety records to better understand what caused the crash.

Dali is owned by Singapore-based Grace Ocean Private Ltd. and managed by Synergy Marine Group. Synergy Marine Group, in a statement published Wednesday, confirmed the safety of their crew and offered their sympathies to victims of the tragedy. Our thoughts are with them as we coordinate closely with the authorities to manage the incidents aftermath, including environmental impact assessments.

What have experts said?

The first thing that springs to my mind is: was there a sudden fault with the ships engines or the steering gear? The other, of course, is: was there a navigational error? David McFarlane, director of Maritime Risk and Safety Consultants Ltd, told Sky News.

He said that a one-person human error appears to be a less likely cause due to the number of staff on duty that could take over in an emergency. The most likely cause of this is a failure in machinery or steering gear, but we just wont know until the authorities have been on board, McFarlane added.

Toby Mottram, Emeritus Professor at the University of Warwick and Structural Engineer, said in an analysis shared by the University of Warwick, that the moment of impact would have been intensified by the momentum of such a massive cargo vessel which was carrying goods.

Despite meeting regulatory design and safety standards of the 1970s, the Baltimore Key Bridge may not have been equipped to handle the scale of ship movements seen today. However, modern navigation technologies should have prevented the ship from striking the pier, Mottram said.

Chad de Guzman in Singapore contributed reporting.

Correction, March 26

The original version of this story misstated the year when Francis Scott Key wrote The Star-Spangled Banner. It was 1814, not 1914.

Write to Armani Syed at armani.syed@time.com and Simmone Shah at simmone.shah@time.com.
If Minnesota's support for protecting reproductive freedom wasn't already clear, Democratic Gov. Tim Walz just made it so: His family used IVF, and he's proud of it.

During Walz's sixth State of the State address, the former teacher briefly shared his own family's painful struggle to conceive.

Why hasn't he shared this before? "Your personal decisions about your family are no one's business but your own," he said during the just over 23-minute speech.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz speaks at a ceremony declaring the end of veteran homelessness by the Central Minnesota Continuum of Care Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2021, at Veterans Plaza in St. Cloud.

Throughout his administration, Walz has been an outspoken advocate for access to reproductive care and assured Minnesotans in the wake of the overturning of Roe v. Wade that the state would protect their access to abortion.

Sign up for Your Vote: Text USA TODAY reporters and the elections team by joining our SMS service.

"If you have never personally gone through the hell of infertility, I guarantee you someone you know has," Walz said.

More: "We will continue serving our neighbors": One year of Minnesota's abortion rights bill

Protecting Minnesotan's reproductive freedoms

Earlier this month, Vice President Kamala Harris made a historic visit to an abortion clinic in the state's capitol city while highlighting the work of Minnesota to become a safe haven for those seeking medical care.

In 2023, Walz codified reproductive freedom by signing the Protection of Reproductive Options (PRO) Act, effectively carving the rights into state law. This decision directly counteracted the language of the Supreme Court Decision that overturned Roe v. Wade.

"Every individual has a fundamental right to make autonomous decisions about the individual's own reproductive health, including the fundamental right to use or refuse reproductive health care."

READ: Full PRO Act Law here

Since 2022, the state has seen a 100% increase in out-of-state patients, according to Planned Parenthood North Central States.

The fight over IVF

In February, an Alabama Supreme Court ruled that embryos created through the in-vitro fertilization process had the same legal rights as children, resulting in hundreds of fertility clinics around the state shutting down, and families left reeling about their futures of reproductive care.

More: A victory for reproductive rights? Democratic candidate Marilyn Lands wins Alabama special election

"What those judges [in Alabama] did was a direct attack on our family," Walz said. "It was a direct attack on my children."

Earlier this month, Alabama's Republican Gov. Kim Ivey signed into law a bill that grants civil and criminal immunity to these fertility clinics performing IVF care for the "death or damage to an embryo" during the process, paving the way for clinics to re-open.

Despite Alabama's reversal of these effects on families, Walz said in his address that he and Minnesotans will not forget.

"You have my pledge as long as I am governor, IVF will continue to offer a lifeline of hope for Minnesota families," he said.

 Sam Woodward is the Minnesota elections reporting fellow for USA Today. You can reach her at swoodward@gannett.com, on X @woodyreports, or on Threads @samjowoody

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Minnesota Gov. Walz shares personal IVF journey
On March 17, Hannah Riley got the phone call no dog owner wants to receive: Her beloved dog, Hazel, was missing  and Riley was out of the country, unable to help.

I just kept repeating, Sorry, you lost my dog? Riley, a 35-year-old media professional, tells TODAY.com.

Riley adopted Hazel, an 11-pound papillon, from the Atlanta Humane Center six years ago when she first moved to the city. She credits the dog with helping her through a divorce two years ago. I know I will love other dogs in my life and I have before her, but Hazel is a special one. she says.

Hazel went missing while in the the care of Saint Francis Veterinary Specialists and Emergency, an emergency vet care facility. Hazel initially wound up at the vet after getting into her petsitters supply of legal weed gummies, and the petsitter did the responsible thing, per Riley, by bringing her to the vet.

Riley learned, in a breach of protocol, a worker took Hazel outside without a leash in a non fenced-in area, where she then ran off. After returning home to Atlanta, Riley says she visited the vet with a police officer and demanded to see the footage of Hazels escape. The vet barred Riley from viewing said footage, however the police officer with her was able to view the tape.

Hazel is a

I will never know the full story, Riley says.

In a statement given to TODAY.com, Thrive Pet Healthcare said, We are incredibly appreciative of everyone who has volunteered their time to search for Hazel and kept her in their thoughts during this difficult time. Even more importantly, we are humbled to have been given an opportunity to partner with Hazels family in her search to return home. We are available and will provide Hazels family with any necessary support that they will allow during this reunion and in the future.

After looking at the melange of highways surrounding the veterinary office, Riley remembers thinking to herself, Im not going to see her again.

This is my absolute nightmare. A dog whos tripping, probably cant see well, not walking straight, and has a catheter in her leg. Could not have worse conditions, I think, for surviving an escape like that, Riley continues.

And while it's possible that Riley wouldnt have seen Hazel again  the internet stepped in. What followed was an outpouring of support, as internet strangers, Atlanta locals and Rileys network of friends began their search for the missing pup.

Riley credits her good fortune in her background as an organizer and a communications professional for helping rally attention around her cause.

Help, she says, took different forms. By the time Riley and her partner Alejandro were able to return to Atlanta the day after Hazel went missing, her friends had papered missing signs around the city. A friend in Boston sent over a spreadsheet with a list of every shelter in Atlanta. Robin Allgood, a professional dog hunter who has recovered lost dogs in the past, even showed up to help.

I cant tell you the number of texts or DMS that I got from people in Atlanta, who Ill probably never meet, just saying, Hey, I just wanted you to know, heres the area that I searched tonight. Just the most incredibly moving show of generosity from strangers, she says.

Online, people rallied around Rileys updates. On Twitter, the word Hazel was trending. Searches spiked on Google for Hazel missing dog. Her story was covered by a local publication.

Then, there was the work Riley did independently. She took the week off of work to try and track down Hazels whereabouts, parsing through an onslaught of leads, tips and random phone calls, up to 15 a day. Riley learned that a man had rescued Hazel from highway traffic, then handed her to a woman he thought was the owner. From there, Hazel went missing yet again.

Each time Riley's phone rang, she felt hope. But with publicity brought bad intentions. People would call and theyd be like, I found your dog. And then theyd fake bark. It got to me at the time. I was like, Why would you spend your precious energy trolling?

She took comfort not from the thought that Hazel was alive  by Wednesday, she thought she had died  but in the actions of strangers. I felt like so many people were sharing in my sadness ... the global hug that I was feeling was actually one of the only things that that did comfort me, she says.

Riley credits the internets amplification with her storys ultimately happy ending: An unlikely reunion with Hazel five days later.

Hazel at the vet's office after being rescued. (Courtesy Hannah Riley)

At 6:45 p.m. on a Friday, Riley received a text from an unknown number.

I could see in the little preview, Hi, Hannah. I think I found your dog, she remembers. She had received photos of brown and white dogs before, but they werent Hazel. This was.

After getting the text, Riley says she screamed. My boyfriend heard the scream and was like, Oh my god, they found her dead, and my mom heard the scream and was like, Oh my god, they found her alive.'

Hazel turned up on a familys doorstep in Decatur, Georgia, just under a mile and a half from the vet facility. Thinking she was the neighbors dog, the homeowner tried to shoo her away. Instead, Hazel walked into the house and made herself at home. Confused, the homeowner eventually remembered the article she had read about Hazel's disappearance and put the pieces together.

When Riley finally reunited with Hazel, the pup was three pounds lighter and armed with adventure stories Riley will never fully know.

Shes elderly. She has a heart murmur. Shes tiny. She doesnt have very good vision. Her skill set is looking really cute and being very sweet ... I cannot believe she survived for five nights out there ... I underestimated her, she says.

Once Hazel was safely home, Riley shared the good news with the internet who had been following along. Riley says people shared in her joy just as they had shared in her anxiety.

I cant tell you the number of people who were like, Oh, I sobbed when I saw it. To be able to give a story to people that makes them cry happy tears  what an honor (it is) to remind them that there are some real wins in the world, she says. I hope people feel like they are sharing in the joy, because theyre such a huge part of why Hazel is back home.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
By Mariela Nava

MARACAIBO, Venezuela (Reuters) -Venezuela presidential hopeful Manuel Rosales said on Wednesday he was willing to hand over his place on the ballot to a unity candidate, amid uncertainty over who will carry the opposition's banner in a July contest against President Nicolas Maduro.

Neither the landslide winner of an October opposition primary nor her alternate were able to register for the race before a Monday deadline, though two opposition groups, including Rosales' A New Time party, managed to register candidates.

The opposition has until an April 20 substitution deadline to hold internal negotiations about whether to back one of the registered candidates or name alternates.

"I say it with my hand on my heart: have a negotiation, seek a candidate who can overcome the obstacles of the government, search for them and I will hand over the candidacy to whoever," Rosales, the governor of Zulia province, said at an event in Maracaibo.

Rosales, who some in the opposition say has become too close to the ruling party during his governorship, said on Tuesday he registered to ensure there was an opposition candidate and prevent absenteeism.

The Democratic Unity group registered Edmundo Gonzalez, a former ambassador, but sources told Reuters his listing is meant as a placeholder for a potential substitute.

Maria Corina Machado, who won the October opposition primary by a landslide 93% but is barred from holding office, said this week she was taking decisions on any potential alliance with Rosales "day by day".

Various opinion polls had forecast Machado would pick up at least 50% of votes to Maduro's 20%. It is unclear if any other opposition figure could rally as much support as Machado, especially if she does not wholeheartedly back them.

Despite Washington backing, Venezuela's opposition has struggled to dislodge Maduro, who has been in power since 2013 and who won a 2018 election boycotted by the opposition over concerns the vote was rigged.

Many prominent Venezuelan opposition figures have faced bans or arrest. Last week, Venezuela's attorney general Tarek Saab said two people close to Machado had been arrested and warrants were out for seven other members of her team, in the latest wave of detentions of activists.

Some opposition leaders had sought refuge at the Argentine embassy in Caracas, the Argentine government said in a statement late on Tuesday.

Argentina's foreign ministry declined to disclose the names of those at its embassy, citing security reasons, but local media reported they were six politicians linked to Machado.

Saab said on Tuesday that two men had been detained at a Maduro event, allegedly carrying firearms, and were connected to Machado, an accusation her Vente Venezuela party vehemently denied.

Maduro was persecuting the party by categorizing it as a terrorist group, the broad opposition coalition said in a social media post on Wednesday.

(Reporting by Mariela Nava in Maracaibo, additional reporting by Vivian Sequera in Caracas and Lucila Sigal in Buenos Aires; Writing by Valentine Hilaire and Julia Symmes Cobb; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)
The Biden administration is under increasing pressure from human rights organizations to rethink its treatment of Haitian migrants trying to flee Haiti or currently living undocumented inside the U.S., but so far there are no plans to change course, three U.S. officials told NBC News.

More than 480 human rights organizations sent a letter to the Biden administration on Wednesday asking for a moratorium on deportations to Haiti, the immediate release of detained Haitian migrants, the closure of pending deportation cases for Haitian migrants and a new designation of Temporary Protected Status that would let more Haitian migrants already living in the U.S. remain in the U.S.

If the United States cannot keep its personnel safe in Haiti, then the Haitian government is unlikely to keep Haitian nationals safe, said the letter, referring to the U.S. mission to airlift Americans out of Haiti.

For more on this story, tune in to "NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt" tonight at 6:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. CT or check your local listings.

U.S. officials say there has been moral handwringing inside the administration, both at the White House and the Department of Homeland Security, over the issue.

Its heartbreaking, one U.S. official said, adding that there are no plans to allow more Haitian migrants into the U.S.

There are no good options here, said another U.S. official.

The Biden administration is facing sharp backlash on its immigration policies, including from some Democratic mayors, heading into the November presidential election. Customs and Border Protection has made more than 10 million apprehensions of undocumented migrants trying to cross the southern border since the beginning of the administration, many of them Haitian. Crossings hit record monthly levels in late 2023, though they have now dropped.

Since gangs took over Haiti this month, forcing Prime Minister Ariel Henry to announce his resignation, the Caribbean nation has been engulfed in violence.

The charred remains of vehicles (Clarens Siffroy / AFP - Getty Images)

The Biden administration has not deported Haitian migrants back to their home country by plane since the violence began, in large part because the airport in the capital and largest city, Port-au-Prince, has been taken over by gangs. But it has continued sending migrants who are interdicted at sea back to Haiti by boat.

On March 14, the U.S. Coast Guard returned 65 Haitians found on a sailboat at sea.

Those interdicted at sea are subject to immediate repatriation pursuant to our longstanding policy and procedures," a spokeswoman for DHS said. "The United States returns or repatriates migrants interdicted at sea to The Bahamas, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti."

A spokeswoman for the White Houses National Security Council said the Biden administrations approach is to help Haitians pave a path to democracy.

If our goal was to bring everyone from around the world whenever theres a crisis, we would have a huge problem, the NSC spokeswoman said.

She noted that the U.S. has been working to help the situation for over a year. The U.S. government has provided more than $170 million in humanitarian aid since October 2022, making it the single largest humanitarian assistance provider to Haiti.

No protected status

Two U.S. officials told NBC News that the Biden administration will not change the policy of returning Haitians interdicted at sea because they do not want to trigger mass migration.

The officials also said that the current crisis has not yet spurred the U.S. to consider granting Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to an additional group of undocumented Haitians.

TPS has historically been used to let nationals from a country facing a humanitarian crisis legally live and work inside the U.S, whether the crisis at home is due to political upheaval or a natural disaster. TPS is granted by the president.

Many Haitian migrants who arrived in the U.S. in the past already have TPS, including those who came after Haitis 2010 earthquake.

Advocates for Haitian refugees argue the administration set a double standard by granting TPS to a new group of Venezuelans last summer, when conditions in Venezuela were less dire than the current situation in Haiti.

People, including many Haitians, leave Mexico to cross into the United States (Gregory Bull / AP file)

The fear of using TPS for Haitians now, two officials said, is that it will send the wrong message to Haitians that they will be allowed to stay in the U.S. if they can make it here. But, they acknowledged, it is a terribly violent situation to which to return anyone.

Theres an acknowledgement this is really difficult, said a U.S. official. But we dont want to encourage more people to take to the sea.

Guerline Jozef, a human rights advocate and co-founder of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, which led the letter sent Wednesday, said the Biden administration should rethink its policy. She said accepting desperate migrants who are lucky enough to escape would not trigger mass migration because it is so hard to get out.

It is almost impossible to leave Haiti, Jozef said.

U.S. officials noted that those recently interdicted at sea are not being sent back to Port-au-Prince, where most of the violence is concentrated, but in other parts of Haiti like the northern city of Cap-Haitien.

There is no excuse to send anyone to anywhere in Haiti right now. They are using this as an excuse for the inexcusable, Jozef said. The whole country is unstable.
Seven Chinese nationals were charged Monday in a "sinister" 14-year scheme to hack the computers of numerous high-ranking U.S. government officials, as well as defense contractors, political dissidents and critics around the world.

The defendants are accused of being part of a group known as Advanced Persistent Threat 31, or APT31, which works with the Chinese Ministry of State Security to conduct cyber espionage, according to the Justice Department.

Their targets allegedly included officials in the White House and the Justice, Commerce, Treasury and State Departments; Republican and Democratic members of Congress; and campaign staffers from both sides of the 2020 presidential race.

Some officials' spouses were also targeted, as were workers in vital sectors of the American economy, including military contracting, information technology and telecommunications, according to the Justice Department.

APT31 also allegedly went after academics and activists in Hong Kong, the U.S. and elsewhere, as well more than 400 government officials tied to the global Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China.

The hackers even targeted Norway's governmment and a Norwegian internet service provider after leaders of Hong Kong's Umbrella Movement were nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018, according to the Justice Department.

"This case serves as a reminder of the ends to which the Chinese government is willing to go to target and intimidate its critics, including launching malicious cyber operations aimed at threatening the national security of the United States and our allies," Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a prepared statement.

Breon Peace, U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, also called the alleged operation a "sinister scheme" that "victimized thousands of people and entities across the world, and lasted for well over a decade."

The hackers allegedly sent their targets malicious emails, including some that "spoofed" the name of a leading American TV journalist, according to a 27-page indictment unsealed Monday in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn, New York.

Some emails contained tracking links to help the hackers access computer routers and other devices, while others held files with various types of malware to let the hackers take control of the computers and access larger, private networks.

As part of the operation, more than 10,000 emails were allegedly sent to the work and personal addresses of various targets in the U.S. just between June and September 2018.

Computer networks were compromised at a leading U.S. provider of 5G network equipment, a public-opnion polling company and an aerospace and defense research company in Alabama, according to the Justice Department.

The defendants were identified as Ni Gaobin, 38; Ni Gaobin, 37; Cheng Feng, 34; Peng Yaowen, 38; Sun Xiaohui, 38; Xiong Wang, 35; and Zhao Guangzong, 38.

They were each charged with conspiracy to commit computer intrusions and wire fraud conspiracy, which carry a maximum total prison term of 25 years.

All are believed to be at large in China, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
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Mayor Earl Johnson of Andalusia, Alabama, has apologized to Twyla Stallworth after an officer entered her home and arrested her for not showing her identification. Under Alabama law, police officers can only demand ID from someone who is in a public place and has committed a crime or whom they suspect is going to commit a crime. Stallworth had called to file a noise complaint against a neighbor. No police officer ever came, so she set off her car alarm to annoy the neighbor, who then called to report her; at that point, an officer was dispatched to the scene. Stallworth was not charged for setting off the car alarm, but she was charged with obstruction, resisting arrest, and attempting to elude. Johnson said all charges will be dropped.

The post Brickbat: Unsafe at Home appeared first on Reason.com.
Alon Skuy // Getty Images

Former President Donald Trump falsely claimed this week that migrant students are displacing other children from New York City's schools.

In fact, Chalkbeat found that the city's public schools have struggled in recent years with the opposite problem: too many empty seats.

Enrollment has ticked up slightly this school year, thanks in part to an influx of migrant students, though still remains about 9% below pre-pandemic levels. Education Department officials have said boosting school rosters is a top priority, as lower enrollment can lead to smaller budgets, mergers, and closures.

In an interview with the Right Side Broadcasting Network on March 4, Trump claimed without evidence that "we have children that are no longer going to school" because of the influx of migrants.

"I'm not blaming them," he said. "I'm saying they put the students in the place of our students like in New York City. We have these wonderful students who are going to school  all of a sudden they no longer have a seat."

A spokesperson for the Trump campaign did not respond to a request to elaborate on his comments. There is no evidence that any students have been left without a school seat due to the arrival of new migrants, and an Education Department spokesperson said the claims were false.

"We will continue to work with students, families, and partners to ensure that newcomer students have what they need in our public schools and that our schools are well equipped to support these needs," Education Department spokesperson Nicole Brownstein wrote in a statement.

Immigration advocates also blasted Trump's comments.

"The idea that we somehow don't have space or that children are being removed from schools is just completely unfounded," said Liza Schwartzwald, director of economic justice and family empowerment at the New York Immigration Coalition.

Trump, the likely Republican nominee for president, has sought to make immigration a centerpiece of his reelection campaign and has escalated anti-immigrant rhetoric, promising to revive a ban from some Muslim-majority countries and refusing asylum claims. He has also swept discussion of education into some campaign stops, claiming at a March 2 rally in Virginia that New York schools are overwhelmed teaching students who speak languages "that nobody ever heard of."

Since the summer of 2022, Republican governors of southern border states have sent busloads of migrants to cities with Democratic leaders, including New York. Over that period, about 36,000 children who live in temporary housing have enrolled in the city's public schools  including 18,000 this school year  many of them migrants. City officials do not ask for a student's immigration status when they enroll.

The city's Education Department is required by law to provide a seat to any school-age child who needs one regardless of their immigration status. Many school communities have worked hard to welcome migrant students and provide appropriate instruction in English and their home language.

And while there is no evidence that migrants have displaced other students, some parent leaders and other groups have protested the new arrivals.

In January, Brooklyn's James Madison High School pivoted to remote learning for one day after migrant families were temporarily housed there because severe wind threatened tent shelters at Floyd Bennett Field that housed newcomers. The episode generated vitriol from some families and morphed into a talking point for right-wing pundits. But several students and parents were perplexed by the outrage and noted the disruption was minor.

"The hostility toward the migrants was definitely uncalled for," senior Zola Zephirin told Chalkbeat. "These are people, they have families, they come here and attempt to make a better life, just like many of the students at Madison."

Schools have sometimes struggled to accommodate newcomers. The enrollment process has been bumpy for some migrant families as the city scrambled to keep up, and schools often can't hire enough bilingual educators, a long-standing shortage area. At the same time, city officials have tweaked the school funding formula to funnel more dollars to schools with more students living in temporary housing  which benefits schools with more migrant children.

For his part, New York Mayor Eric Adams has sent mixed messages about the influx of migrants. Last year he claimed the influx of migrants would "destroy" the city, drawing outrage from immigrant groups, and has blamed them for cuts to city services. But he also celebrated the uptick in public school enrollment, fueled in part by new arrivals.

Some advocates, including Schwartzwald, see parallels between Trump and Adams' rhetoric and worry about the climate it creates for asylum seekers, some of which has reverberated in schools. Some students at Newcomers High School, for instance, have sought a name change in part because they fear the label "puts a target on us."

"When Mayor Adams uses rhetoric where he  just like Trump  tries to create an 'us' and a 'them'  what he's saying is not all immigrants are New Yorkers," Schwartzwald said. "Anyone who comes to New York to make a life is a New Yorker as far as we're concerned."
WASHINGTON  An environmental lawyer whom Donald Trump wanted to take over the Justice Department in the days before the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol repeatedly asserted his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination during a disbarment hearing Wednesday.

Jeffrey Clark, a former Justice Department civil lawyer with no criminal law experience, had wanted to investigate a conspiracy theory that the 2020 election was stolen, including via smart thermostats. Just hours before the attack on Jan. 6, 2021, Trump nearly made Clark the acting attorney general but backed off when Justice Department leadership threatened to resign en masse.

Federal authorities searched Clark's home in June 2022, and he now faces criminal charges in Georgia in the state racketeering case against Trump and others. Clark surrendered to authorities in that case in August and pleaded not guilty. He is also unindicted co-conspirator No. 4 in the federal election interference case brought by special counsel Jack Smith against Trump.

Clark briefly testified during a disciplinary hearing unfolding this week before the Ad Hoc Hearing Committee for the D.C. Board on Professional Responsibility, which is deciding whether he should lose his bar license for his involvement in attempts to overturn Trump's 2020 election loss. The case was initiated in 2022 by the D.C. Bars Office of Disciplinary Counsel and has been held up in litigation for nearly two years.

Before Clark's testimony, his lawyer talked about wanting to prevent him from having to repeatedly assert his Fifth Amendment right and avoid us being on MSNBC for no good reason."

Once his testimony got underway, Clark repeatedly asserted his Fifth Amendment right, as well as law enforcement privilege, deliberative process and attorney-client privilege.

Patricia Matthews, a member of the three-person panel hearing the case, asked Clark who his client was in connection with his invocation of attorney-client privilege: "For whom were you the attorney?" she asked.

"For President Trump, the head of the executive branch, the sole head, the unitary head of Article Two, the executive branch of the United States government," Clark said. (Typically, Justice Department employees say that their client is the United States of America, not one particular president.)

Clark's lawyer intervened when Matthews asked a follow-up question.

Earlier in the morning, the panel heard testimony from former acting Attorney General Jeff Rosen, whom Trump had proposed replacing with Clark. Rosen testified that he remembered telling Donald Trump he could have the Justice Department leadership he wanted, but its not going to change the facts about the election.

Rosen testified that Clark was seeking to investigate issues that were nowhere in his lane and that, looking back, Mr. Clark wasnt very forthcoming during the period leading up to the Jan. 6 attack. Clark, Rosen testified, had read things on the internet. Rosen said he thought for a time that giving Clark some info about the Justice Departments efforts to investigate some of the conspiracy theories Clark believed in might help Clark with coming off the ledge, if you will.

Richard Donoghue, then the No. 2 Justice Department official, said Clark was way out of bounds, way out of his lane. Donoghue testified to the House Jan. 6 Committee that he highlighted Clark's lack of criminal or election experience during an hourslong standoff in the Oval Office on Jan. 3, 2021, telling Clark: Youre an environmental lawyer. How about you go back to your office, and well call you when theres an oil spill."

Rosen testified about the Jan. 3 meeting at Wednesday's hearing, saying he and other lawyers in the room, "everybody, had indicated they would, in some manner, feel obliged to resign" if Trump named Clark acting attorney general.

The threat of mass resignations at the Justice Department ultimately helped persuade Trump to step back from his plan to appoint Clark, several lawyers in the room have testified.

Clark's defense team on Wednesday called Suzi Voyles, a Republican politician and Trump delegate whose claims of voter fraud in Georgia in 2020 were investigated and dismissed by state authorities. Voyles testified that she still suspected voter fraud in Georgia and spoke about how she believed voting machines work, adding, Im not very technical."

A disciplinary board for the D.C. Bar previously recommended that Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani lose his law license, writing that Giuliani's "effort to undermine the integrity of the 2020 presidential election has helped destabilize our democracy" and that his "malicious and meritless claims have done lasting damage."
Federal prosecutors on Tuesday sued to seize two New York City apartments worth $14 million that were allegedly bought with proceeds from a corrupt scheme involving Mongolias huge copper mine, a former prime minister of that nation, and his Harvard Business School graduate son.

The lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn details a total of $128 million in allegedly unlawful contracts granted by a Mongolian state-owned mining company to shell companies, which benefited then Prime Minister Sukhbaatar Batbold and his family, including his oldest son.

During Batbolds tenure as Prime Minister, Erdenet Mining Corporation inserted a middleman with ties to Batbold into the relationship with [the commodity trading firm] Ocean Partners, allowing Batbold to siphon off millions of dollars for his personal use and benefit, which included the purchase of the luxury apartments in Manhattan, the suit alleges.

Batbold served as prime minister from 2009 through 2012. He currently is a member of the Mongolian parliament.

Money linked to another allegedly illegal contract for $30 million from Erdenet Mining went into a bank account in the United States controlled by the eldest son, Battushig Batbold, via wire transfers referencing car payment, trips and travel, school payment, and interior designer payment, the suit said.

Battushig Batbold, a Harvard Business School graduate, is a member of the International Olympic Committee.

He also worked as a summer associate at Blackstone in 2014, and as a mining analyst at Morgan Stanley from 2009 through 2011, according to his LinkedIn page.

Orin Snyder, an attorney at the Gibson Dunn firm that is representing Sukhbaatar Batbold and Battushig Batbold, in an email statement to CNBC said, The claims filed today echo allegations our clients defeated two years ago in courts around the world.

In those cases, we proved the claims against Mr. Batbold were the product of a misinformation campaign designed to manipulate Mongolian democracy  a campaign secretly directed by Mr. Batbolds opponents.

Mr. Batbold looks forward to his day in court, when he will have the opportunity to defend himself against these unfounded claims, the attorney said.

CNBC has reached out to Mongolias United Nations mission in New York for comment on the allegations in the suit.
Lawyers for Hunter Biden are expected to ask a judge at a hearing Wednesday to dismiss tax charges filed against him last year, arguing that the case is politically motivated.

Biden alleges prosecutors caved to pressure from Republican lawmakers, who launched an impeachment inquiry into his father, President Joe Biden, after an earlier plea deal fell through.

Hunter Bidens legal team will challenge the charges in federal court in Los Angeles before U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi. The judge will hear arguments on several motions filed in recent weeks from both Bidens legal team, led by attorney Abbe Lowell, and special counsel David Weiss office, represented by lead prosecutor Leo Wise.

Scarsi is not expected to immediately rule from the bench on the motions, but he has indicated that he wants the case to move through the pre-trial process as quickly as possible.

Also at the courthouse for the hearing Wednesday was David Chesnoff, the attorney for ex-FBI informant Alexander Smirnov. Smirnov has been charged with providing false information to the FBI about Hunter Biden and his father, something Lowell is likely to bring up.

The same prosecutor's office is charging my client and the arguments that are being made for dismissal may impact his case. I want to hear it for my clients benefit, Chesnoff told NBC News.

Weiss brought nine tax-related charges, including three felony and six misdemeanor charges, against Hunter Biden in a California federal court last year. Weiss alleged that the presidents son failed to pay at least $1.4 million in taxes as part of a multiyear scheme to evade federal taxes, instead opting to spend millions of dollars on an extravagant lifestyle," including, according to the indictment, "drugs, escorts and girlfriends, luxury hotels and rental properties, exotic cars, clothing, and other items of a personal nature.

The president's son pleaded not guilty to the charges in January. His lawyers filed several motions last month asking the judge to dismiss the charges, arguing that prosecutors had bowed to political pressure, among other things.

The special counsel has gone to extreme lengths to bring charges against Mr. Biden that would not have been filed against anyone else, Lowell said in a statement when the motions were filed last month. 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.

Federal prosecutors pushed back on Hunter Bidens claims, arguing that he came up with a conspiracy theory to dodge tax charges after the earlier plea deal unraveled.

The defendant concocts a conspiracy theory that the prosecution has upped the ante to appease politicians who have absolutely nothing to do with the prosecution and are not even members of the current Executive Branch, prosecutors wrote in a filing this month.

In addition to the tax charges, Hunter Biden was indicted on federal gun charges in Delaware last year for allegedly possessing a gun while using narcotics. The trial for the gun charges is scheduled for June.

Hunter Biden has become a major figure in House Republicans impeachment inquiry into the president. The president's son gave a closed-door deposition with the GOP-led House Oversight and Judiciary committees last month and railed against the investigation as "charade in his prepared remarks.
By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Ahmed Zakot

(Reuters) - Israel bombed at least four homes in Rafah on Wednesday, raising new fear among the more than a million Palestinians sheltering in the last refuge on the southern edge of the Gaza Strip that a long-threatened ground assault could be coming.

One of the airstrikes killed 11 people from a single family, health officials said.

Mussa Dhaheer, looking on from below as neighbours helped an emergency worker lower a victim in a black body bag from an upper storey, said he had awakened to the blast, kissed his terrified daughter, and rushed outside to find the destruction. His father, 75, and mother, 62, were among the dead.

"I don't know what to do. I don't know what to say. I can't make sense of what happened. My parents. My father with his displaced friends who came from Gaza City," he told Reuters.

"They were all together, when suddenly they were all gone like dust."

At another bomb site, Jamil Abu Houri said the intensification of air strikes was Israel's way of showing its disdain for a U.N. Security Council resolution last week demanding an immediate Israel-Hamas ceasefire.

Next up, he fears a ground assault on Rafah, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened to carry out despite warnings from closest ally Washington that this would wreak a humanitarian disaster.

"The bombing has increased, and they have threatened us with an incursion, and they say that have been given the green light for the Rafah incursion. Where is the Security Council?" Abu Houri said.

A U.S. official said on Wednesday Israel had asked to reschedule a meeting in Washington to discuss its plans for Rafah, days after Netanyahu abruptly cancelled the talks over the passage of a Gaza ceasefire resolution by the U.N. Security Council that the U.S. decided not to veto.

The U.S. abstention from the vote pointed to frustration with Netanyahu, who rebuked Washington over the move.

MORE DEADLY AIRSTRIKES

Another Israeli airstrike in Rafah on Wednesday afternoon killed four Palestinians including a woman and a child and injured other residents, Gaza health authorities said.

Just west of Gaza City in the enclave's north, seven people were killed in an airstrike on a house, health officials said.

The Israeli military says it is targeting armed Hamas militants who use civilian buildings, including apartment blocks and hospitals, for cover. Hamas denies doing so.

Separately, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where bloodshed has worsened in parallel with the Gaza war, three Palestinians were killed and four wounded by Israeli fire during a raid in Jenin overnight, the Palestinian health ministry said.

At least 32,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's air and ground offensive into Hamas-run Gaza, according to the health ministry there, with thousands of other dead believed buried under rubble and over 80% of the 2.3 million population displaced, many at risk of famine.

The war erupted after Islamist Hamas militants broke through the border on Oct. 7 and rampaged through nearby communities, killing 1,200 people and abducting 253 hostages according to Israeli tallies.

Israeli forces just north of Rafah kept the two main hospitals in Khan Younis, Al-Amal and Nasser Hospital, under a blockade imposed late last week. In the north, they were still operating inside Al Shifa, the enclave's largest hospital, which they stormed more than a week ago.

Israel says the hospitals have been lairs for Hamas gunmen, which Hamas and medical staff deny. The Israeli military has said it killed and captured hundreds of fighters in a battle in Al Shifa. Hamas says civilians and medics were rounded up.

Gaza's health ministry said wounded people and patients were being held inside Al Shifa's human resources department that was not equipped to provide them with healthcare.

Residents living nearby have reported hearing constant explosions in and around Al Shifa and columns of smoke coming from buildings inside the premises.

International mediation has failed to secure a ceasefire and exchange of prisoners so far as the two sides stick to irreconcilable demands. Hamas wants an end to the war and total Israeli withdrawal from Gaza while Israel has vowed to keep fighting until its Islamist foe is eradicated.

(Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi in Cairo, Ahmed Zakot and Bassam Massoud in Rafah, Ali Sawafta in Ramallah; writing by Nidal al-Mughrabi; editing by Peter Graff and Mark Heinrich)
Sitting in a taxi in Munich in February, stuck in traffic, John Kerry wrestled with an idea. The U.S. climate envoy was in southern Germany to attend an annual security conference, spending his days pushing world leaders to work together to fight global warming. But in a few hours, the former Secretary of State would receive an award named in honor of a well-known Nazi resister, Ewald von Kleist. As he ruminated on his remarks, he worked to connect what he called the echoes of the 1930s in todays geopolitics with the need for unity on climate action.

By the time he took the stage to accept the award that night, Kerry had found the words to make the connection in a blunt speech lasting less than 15 minutes. On climate, on Ukraine, and on so much more, the whole world needs to come together, he told the dignitaries gathered in the ornate Bavarian palace where the ceremony was being held. I hate to say it, and its not an exaggerationbut we do stand next to another abyss. It is the test of our own times, a test as acute and as existential as any previous one.

Read More: Its a New Era of Climate Geopolitics. And Its Not Just For Policy Wonks

Over the past 40 years, Kerry has used his positions as U.S. Senator, Democratic nominee for President, and top American diplomat to bring climate action to the highest levels of international relations, using his stature and knack for persuasion to push the issue at home and abroad. As a Senator, he showed up at global climate meetings to keep the U.S. engaged. He would eventually piece together a bold, if ultimately unsuccessful, congressional effort to price carbon. Running for President, he leaned into the climate message with a commitment unlike any major-party nominee before him. And as Secretary of State he made the issue a State Department priority, created a global oceans conference that continues to this day, and helped broker the landmark Paris Agreement.

As the issue has risen on the global agenda in recent years, Kerry has been among the most influential voices shaping the tone and substance of the conversation. And despite the dark overtones of his Munich speech, devotees and critics alike often say Kerrys defining characteristic is his optimism. He is able to look at the most dire situations, from climate change to the Middle East, and identify a path for everyone to come to their sensesoften against the odds.

Read More: John Kerrys Next Move

That optimism was tested from the start in his role as President Joe Bidens climate envoy. Kerry entered the job in the middle of the pandemic and in the wake of an Administration that had effectively withdrawn the U.S. from international climate discussions. He immediately began hopping around the world calling on Presidents and princes to deliver the message that the U.S. could be trusted. By the end of the first year, he was launching coalitions and helping broker key international climate deals. I know that people criticize the optimism, says Amos Hochstein, a key international energy adviser to Biden who worked closely with Kerry. I think its his superpower.

That approach panned out at last years U.N. climate conference in Dubai, where Kerry held firm in his support of the oil CEO charged with leading the summit even as many climate advocates called for the executive to step down. He sticks with his convictions, says Sue Biniaz, a longtime adviser who served as his deputy climate envoy.

Kerry now begins a new chapter. He resigned from his role as climate envoy on March 6, but at the age of 80, after nearly 40 years in government, he is not retiring. Instead, he plans to join the private sector, drumming up money to finance climate efforts in the places that need it the most. Its a fitting move. Kerry named his memoir Every Day Is Extra after a saying he and his buddies used as a touchstone during the Vietnam War. Its a reminder to himselfand everyone elsenot to sit on the sidelines when problems need solving.

Write to Justin Worland at justin.worland@time.com.
Perhaps the most obvious cause for the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday is whats seen in footage from the scene: a massive cargo ship laden with shipping containers striking the bridge, which buckles into the river below.

Its still early in the investigative process, but officials have ruled out terrorism as a motive; Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said at a news conference Tuesday morning preliminary information indicates the collision was an accident.

How the collision occurred, as well as whether any preventative measures could have helped mitigate the bridge collapse, will be a focus of the investigation led by the National Transportation Safety Board. In the day since, however, investigators appear to have attributed the collision in part to a power issue reported by the crew onboard the vessel  a Singaporean-flagged ship named DALI  just before impact. Meanwhile, experts who spoke to CNN indicated the ship struck a crucial support column, or pier, that the Key Bridge could not stand without.

Given the ships comparative size  984-feet long, and 213 million pounds  it was more than the bridge could endure.

What we do know is a bridge like this one, completed in the 1970s, was simply not made to withstand a direct impact on a critical support pier from a vessel that weighs about 200 million pounds, US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Wednesday, orders of magnitude bigger than cargo ships that were in service in that region at the time that the bridge was first built.

DALI was as wide as the bridge was tall, said Benjamin W. Schafer, the Willard and Lillian Hackerman Professor of Civil and Systems Engineering at Johns Hopkins University.

Take a ship thats as big as a bridge and run it into it, Schafer told CNN, and the bridge isnt going to win.

Heres a look at the factors that may have contributed to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Ship reported power issue, lost propulsion

At the time of the collision, the 984footlong DALI was leaving the Port of Baltimore and bound for Colombo, Sri Lanka, officials said.

But moments before impact at 1:28 a.m. ET, the DALI reportedly lost propulsion and dropped its anchor, according to a statement by the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore, citing a report from the ships management company, Synergy Marine Pte Ltd.

As a result, it was unable to maintain the desired heading and collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, the statement said.

Moore confirmed the crew informed authorities of a technical problem just before the crash, warning them in a mayday call of what he called a power issue. That allowed authorities enough time to stop more vehicles from crossing the bridge, said Moore, who credited that warning with saving lives.

Indeed, the ship veered toward a pillar shortly before impact, according to a CNN analysis of MarineTraffic ship-tracking data. Any power issues may be corroborated by the footage of the incident, which showed a plume of dark smoke billowing from the ship and its lights flickering minutes before striking the Key Bridge.

Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association, described the power issue as a total blackout of engine and electrical power. While the lights on the ship were seen turning back on  likely due to an emergency generator  the engines never recovered, Diamond said.

Separately, a spokesperson for the Chilean Navy confirmed to CNN the ship was briefly held in the country last June over a propulsion issue. The port state inspector granted a deadline for solving the deficiency before the ship could set sail, which was completed and verified on site by the inspector on the same day, the spokesperson said in a statement.

The NTSB is aware of the reported power issues, Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy said in a news conference Tuesday, but the agency would work toward verifying that as part of their own investigation.

People familiar with the investigation say it will look into whether contaminated fuel played a role in the incident, The Wall Street Journal reported.

The cargo ship DALI reported power issues shortly before striking the Key Bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said. - Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images

To Mary Schiavo, former inspector general of the US Department of Transportation, the footage suggests there was something on the ship that caused a steering problem, noting the local pilots guiding the ship at the time of the accident were highly trained individuals.

Such pilots are relied upon to help avoid these accidents, tasked with guiding ships into and out of ports, channels and rivers across the country. The thinking is that local pilots have more intimate knowledge of the waters they traverse and their potential hazards than the ships crew.

Theres an old saying, Safe passage requires local knowledge, in the maritime industry, said Schiavo, also a CNN analyst. And they had that on board.

Without power, however, a ship that large and that heavy would be very difficult to maneuver, Schiavo said.

Chuck Carmichael, who retired in 2017 after working in Baltimore for Inchcape Shipping Services, agreed, saying loss of power would result in the ship being extremely difficult or even impossible to steer.

He also suspected the collision was not the result of pilot error, because the pilots serve as advisers to the captain and crewman doing the steering: Ultimately, anything that happens on that ship is the (captains) responsibility, Carmichael said.

Ship hit crucial bridge support, experts say

The 47-year-old bridge is not just a landmark, said Kathy Szeliga, a member of the Maryland State House of Delegates, but the gateway to our port. Ships must pass beneath it to enter and exit the port, which is a major US hub that generates billions in income and supports tens of thousands of jobs, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority.

The bridge is also a major artery for road traffic, linking Interstate 695 across a 1.6-mile-long span of the river. In 2023, approximately 12.1 million vehicles  roughly 33,000 daily  drove across the Key Bridge, according to a recent report by the authority, generating $56.8 million in toll revenue.

A construction crew was on the bridge Tuesday morning before the incident, repairing potholes, Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said. But the bridge had no known structural issues, Moore said at Tuesdays news conference, calling it fully up to code.

The bridges main span had two principal supports  those nearest its center, including the one struck by the DALI, said Schafer, the Johns Hopkins engineering professor. Both are equally important and did most of the work carrying the load off the bridges center span, he said, calling it a good, valid, efficient design.

But it appears the ship directly struck one of those two support columns, Schafer said. At that point, this structure, which used to be supported at two points, now is only supported at one, he said. It is not designed for that.

The Key Bridge is a key artery for traffic along I-695, otherwise known as the Baltimore Beltway. - Steve Ruark/AP

Barzin Mobasher, a structural engineering professor at Arizona State University, similarly told CNN the collapse was a matter of physics: Once the ship hit one of the bridges columns, it triggered an unstoppable chain reaction, known as progressive collapse.

John Zimmerman, an ironworker who helped build the bridge in the 1970s, was shocked by its collapse, telling CNN in a phone interview Tuesday, I didnt think that bridge would ever come down.

He speculated based on the footage that the ship struck the bridge at its most vulnerable point: It looks like it hit the only spot it could have hit to take the whole thing down.

NTSB will examine bridges structure

Aside from determining what occurred onboard the DALI, Homendy said her agency would also assess the structure of the Key Bridge, its construction and whether there were other measures that should have been in place to prevent this type of destruction from occurring.

Two such measures would be dolphins and fenders, structures aimed at redirecting ship traffic and protecting the bridge by absorbing the impact of a collision. Experts indicated the Key Bridge appeared to have dolphins, while photos taken before the bridge collapse suggested a lack of fenders, which would shield the columns themselves.

Asked directly Wednesday whether fenders were present at the Key Bridge, Homendy said, Ive seen the pictures. Again, well want to look at everything on the structure of the bridge, on the design of the bridge, and then well have further information to share.

Matthew Roblez, a structural engineer, would not speculate as to the apparent lack of fenders, telling CNNs Boris Sanchez Tuesday it was possible they would have restricted the waterway. But he also acknowledged it was possible fenders would mitigate a collision.

Mobasher similarly would not speculate on whether the dolphins failed to safeguard against the crash, because they were partially submerged. There are things happening under water that we cannot see and cannot assess to evaluate how effective those dolphins were.

Ultimately, however, experts were skeptical the Key Bridge could have been saved, pointing to the size of the ship that hit it. Schafers hypothesis, he said, is that the bridge failure was not due to its construction but the increasingly larger cargo ships traveling beneath it since its construction five decades ago.

Mobasher echoed that, telling CNN: No bridge, unless a fortress is built around it, could survive such an impact. A ship of that size, even if empty of any cargo, at that speed could still do that damage at the spot where it struck.

CNNs Isabelle Chapman, Daniel Medina, Majlie de Puy Kamp, Sunlen Serfaty, Melissa Alonso, Elizabeth Wolfe and Lauren Mascarenhas contributed to this report.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story contained an interview that was done by a CNN affiliate with a port worker who described electrical issues on the ship. Since this post was published, the subject of the interview has informed our affiliate that she cannot stand by her comments. Her quotes have been removed.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The Kremlin has embraced a challenge in the wake of last weeks deadly terror attack in Moscow: pinning the blame on its enemies.

Russian officials have stepped up their efforts to point the finger at Ukraine and the West  a task made more difficult by a lack of publicly presented evidence, denials by Kyiv matched by claims of responsibility by the Islamic State terrorist group, and contradictions in the narrative put forth by the Kremlins hawks.

Although President Vladimir Putin offered early hints of the claim that Ukraine was in some way involved in the concert hall attack, the Russian leader and his propaganda machine have doubled down on those claims in recent days. The head of the countrys Federal Security Service (FSB) even suggested Tuesday that it was not just Kyiv but the United States and Britain that were behind the attack, which has now claimed at least 140 lives.

Ukraine and its allies have dismissed the accusations, while the U.S. has said ISIS was solely responsible for the attack.

Four Tajik nationals charged in the attack appeared severely beaten in a Moscow court Sunday, raising questions about how reliable any testimony they give will be. On Monday, Putin admitted for the first time that the attack had been carried out by radical Islamists, while again suggesting that Ukraine was involved.

Vladimir Putin In Moscow (Valery Sharifulin / AFP - Getty Images)

FSB chief Alexander Bortnikov took it further Tuesday and said that primary data received from the suspects so far points to a Ukrainian trace because the Islamists alone were unable to prepare such an act. Bortnikov also accused Kyiv of training militants in the Middle East.

His words were echoed by another high-ranking official in Putins entourage Tuesday: the secretary of Russias National Security Council, Nikolai Patrushev. Of course, Ukraine, Patrushev said, answering a question from a journalist about whether ISIS or Kyiv was to blame for the attack.

But the Kremlin accusations, while increasingly definitive, have lacked any evidence, details or clarity.

Overall, theres an odd disconnect. The official line, that Ukrainians recruited jihadists, is being parroted, but often with little conviction, Mark Galeotti, head of the consultancy Mayak Intelligence and an honorary professor at University College London, wrote on X. Despite talk of consequences, nothing is really emerging, leaving the authorities looking rather weak.

Russian propaganda has dismissed the ISIS claim of responsibility since the night of the attack, when observers feared that the Kremlin might seek to exploit the situation by blaming its enemies in Ukraine and the West.

That has been borne out in the days since.

On Wednesday, the pro-Kremlin newspaper Argumenty i Fakty splashed across its front page the faces of President Joe Biden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the leaders of Germany, France and the United Kingdom against the burning Crocus concert hall in the background, with a tagline that read: We know the masterminds of the terrorist attack in Crocus.  Let them tell each other the nonsense about ISIS.

When asked why Zelenskyy, who is Jewish, would be in league with Islamist extremists, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov suggested it was not so far-fetched. The Ukrainian leader is a peculiar Jewish person who sympathizes with Nazis, Peskov said Tuesday, resorting to the Kremlins baseless trope about Zelenskyy and his government.

Russias Investigative Committee also said Wednesday that it would look into an appeal by several lawmakers to investigate how the U.S. and other Western countries are allegedly organizing, financing and carrying out terror acts against Russia.

Pushing that narrative could serve several purposes.

It detracts from any meaningful discussion about the failure of Russias own security services, which have been busy cracking down on domestic dissent and seemingly missed an attack that was clearly well planned and that the U.S. had warned about weeks in advance.

At least 139 people were killed when gunmen in camouflage stormed Crocus City Hall, shooting spectators before setting the building on fire in the most fatal attack in Europe to have been claimed by Islamic State jihadists. (Natalia Kolesnikova / AFP via Getty Images)

It could also be exploited by the Kremlin to ramp up its war in Ukraine, with analysts long expecting authorities to soften the ground for new restrictions on personal freedoms and even a second wave of mobilization to bolster Russias military ranks.

The Kremlins story centers on the attack suspects having been detained in the Bryansk border region. Putin alleged that they were trying to flee toward Ukraine, which he said had prepared a window for them to cross the border. Bortnikov went further and said Tuesday that Kyiv wanted to welcome them as heroes on the other side.

But one of Putins closest allies appeared to inadvertently undermine this narrative.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko boasted Tuesday that the suspects had turned toward the Ukrainian border because they understood that it was impossible to enter Belarus. The country went on high alert shortly after the terror attack in Moscow, Lukashenko said, and checkpoints were set up on roads, including those with Russia that the suspects saw, choosing to go to Ukraine instead.

A bill in Belarus that would outlaw the promotion of homosexuality and other behavior is set to land on lawmakers' desks amid an unwavering crackdown on dissent initiated by authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko in 2020. (Pavel Bednyakov / AP)

The version about Ukraine did not look very convincing from the very beginning, and after yesterdays revelations from Lukashenko, only frankly narrow-minded or completely fearful people can believe in it, Abbas Gallyamov, a Russian political analyst and former Putin speechwriter, wrote on Telegram.

Pushing on with this narrative, Putin risks further alienating whatever high-quality audience he has left, Gallyamov said, leaving him reliant on people who blindly believe his every word.

Bortnikovs suggestion of U.S. and U.K. involvement in the attack also does not serve the Kremlin, he said, as such a wide range of participants would only add to the apparent failures of Russian intelligence services. Almost half the world is involved in the conspiracy, Gallyamov added, and they missed everything.
Heres a look at how Pennsylvanias members of Congress voted over the previous week.

Along with roll call votes this week, the Senate also confirmed the nomination of Stephen Eberle to be U.S. marshal for the Western District of Pennsylvania for a four-year term; and adopted a resolution (S Res 252), celebrating the 246th anniversary of the creation of the U.S. flag and supporting the Pledge of Allegiance.

HOUSE

MIDDLE EAST DIPLOMACY: The House has passed the Special Envoy for the Abraham Accords Act (HR 3099), sponsored by Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., to create at the State Department the role of special envoy for the Abraham Accords, who would seek to expand and strengthen Israels relations with neighboring and overseas Muslim-majority countries. Lawler said: Having a point person at the State Department is key to ensuring the accords maintain a priority in this administration and all future administrations. The vote, on June 13, was 413 yeas to 13 nays.

YEAS: Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Bucks; Mike Kelly, R-Butler; Dwight Evans, D-Philadelphia; Chrissy Houlahan, D-Chester; Madeleine Dean, D-Montgomery; Scott Perry, R-York; Brendan Boyle, D-Philadelphia; Matt Cartwright, D-Lackawanna; Lloyd Smucker, R-Lancaster; John Joyce, R-Blair; Guy Reschenthaler, R-Washington; Glenn Thompson, R-Howard; Dan Meuser, R-Luzerne; Susan Wild, D-Lehigh; Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Delaware; Chris Deluzio, D-Allegheny

NAYS: Rep. Summer Lee, D-Allegheny

REGULATING FIREARM STABILIZING BRACES: The House has passed a resolution (HJ Res 44), sponsored by Rep. Andrew Clyde, R-Ga., to disapprove of and void a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives rule issued this January that regulates stabilizing braces used to enable shooting a pistol from the shoulder. Clyde said allowing the rule to remain in force would put law-abiding gun owners in danger of large fines and prison sentences as penalties for failing to register their braced guns with the ATF. A resolution opponent, Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., said it makes it easier for the next mass shooter to kill more people. The vote, on June 13, was 219 yeas to 210 nays.

YEAS: Kelly, Perry, Smucker, Joyce, Reschenthaler, Thompson, Meuser

NAYS: Fitzpatrick, Evans, Houlahan, Dean, Boyle, Cartwright, Wild, Scanlon, Lee, Deluzio

D.C. CRIME POLICIES VETO: The House has failed to override President Joe Bidens veto of a resolution (HJ Res 42), sponsored by Rep. Andrew Clyde, R-Ga., to disapprove of and void the Washington, D.C., Councils adoption of a law changing policing policies for D.C. police officers. Clyde said the action was necessary because the D.C. Councils misguided legislation has driven out men and women in blue who protect us, while disincentivizing individuals to join the force. An opponent, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-D.C., called the measure a profoundly undemocratic, paternalistic resolution in its move to have actions by locally elected politicians in D.C. overridden by Congress. The vote, on June 13, was 233 yeas to 197 nays, with a two-thirds majority to override the veto.

YEAS: Fitzpatrick, Kelly, Perry, Smucker, Joyce, Reschenthaler, Thompson, Meuser

NAYS: Evans, Houlahan, Dean, Boyle, Cartwright, Wild, Scanlon, Lee, Deluzio

NATURAL GAS STOVES: The House has passed the Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act (HR 1615), sponsored by Rep. Kelly Armstrong, R-N.D., to bar funding for actions by the Consumer Product Safety Commission to deem natural gas-fueled stoves a hazardous, banned product, or to issue regulations that significantly increase the cost of the stoves. Armstrong cited indications from the commission that it would consider substantial regulatory actions on gas stoves categorically as part of what Armstrong called a green climate agenda with the goal to further restrict natural gas. A bill opponent, Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-N.J., said it would prevent the commission from adopting a safety standard that has any possibility of leading to a ban of some type of gas stove. The vote, on June 13, was 248 yeas to 180 nays.

YEAS: Fitzpatrick, Kelly, Perry, Smucker, Joyce, Reschenthaler, Thompson, Meuser

NAYS: Evans, Houlahan, Dean, Boyle, Cartwright, Wild, Scanlon, Lee, Deluzio

RUSSIA DETENTION OF U.S. CITIZENS: The House has passed a resolution (H Res 377), sponsored by Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, calling for Russia to immediately release Evan Gershkovich, a reporter for the Wall Street Journal held since late March, and the release of several other U.S. citizens detained in Russia and other countries. McCaul said that with the resolution, We send a strong message to Vladimir Putin that America, Republicans and Democrats alike, will not tolerate his corrupt regime holding U.S. citizens hostage under false pretenses. The vote, on June 13, was unanimous with 422 yeas.

YEAS: Fitzpatrick, Kelly, Evans, Houlahan, Dean, Perry, Boyle, Cartwright, Smucker, Joyce, Reschenthaler, Thompson, Meuser, Wild, Scanlon, Lee, Deluzio

VACCINATION MANDATES: The House has approved an amendment sponsored by Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, to the Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act (HR 277), that would include measures likely to result in mandatory vaccinations in the bills definition of major rule. Roy said: We should stand up to the tyranny of an executive branch that overstepped its bounds and restricted the freedom and liberties of the American people and harmed them with COVID vaccination requirements. An amendment opponent, Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., said it would just serve to undermine necessary health and safety rules. The vote, on June 14, was 219 yeas to 217 nays.

YEAS: Kelly, Perry, Joyce, Reschenthaler, Thompson, Meuser

NAYS: Fitzpatrick, Evans, Houlahan, Dean, Boyle, Cartwright, Smucker, Wild, Scanlon, Lee, Deluzio

FEDERAL REGULATIONS: The House has passed the Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act (HR 277), sponsored by Rep. Kat Cammack, R-Fla., to require approval from Congress before any major rule from a federal agency can take effect, with major defined as a rule likely to have at least a $100 million annual impact or a significant impact on the U.S. economy. Cammack called the bill a way for Congress to reassert its role by placing new checks on the regulatory actions and the regulatory regime that negatively impact Americans in all walks of life across the country. An opponent, Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., said: This legislation is just the latest effort by Republicans to dismantle and destroy the regulatory process, a process that protects our health and safety each and every day. The vote, on June 14, was 221 yeas to 210 nays.

YEAS: Fitzpatrick, Kelly, Perry, Smucker, Joyce, Reschenthaler, Thompson, Meuser

NAYS: Evans, Houlahan, Dean, Boyle, Cartwright, Wild, Scanlon, Lee, Deluzio

REGULATING ENERGY USED IN COOKING: The House has passed the Save Our Gas Stoves Act (HR 1640), sponsored by Rep. Debbie Lesko, R-Ariz., to bar the Energy Department from establishing regulations that would make unavailable stoves and ovens that use natural gas or another specific type of fuel, and bar it from adopting its proposed rule to establish energy efficiency standards for stoves and ovens. Lesko said the proposed rule would effectively eliminate nearly all gas stoves and gas cooktops on the market today by making the vast majority of cooktops out of compliance with the efficiency standards. An opponent, Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., D-N.J., said the rule would lower energy bills, improve Americans health and cut pollution, without significantly restricting cooktop availability. The vote, on June 14, was 249 yeas to 181 nays.

YEAS: Fitzpatrick, Kelly, Perry, Smucker, Joyce, Reschenthaler, Thompson, Meuser, Wild

NAYS: Evans, Houlahan, Dean, Boyle, Cartwright, Scanlon, Lee, Deluzio

CENSURING REPRESENTATIVE: The House has approved a motion to table a resolution (H Res 489), sponsored by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., that states it would have censured Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., for falsely claiming there was evidence of President Donald Trump colluding with Russia to steal the 2016 election and become president. The vote to table, on June 14, was 225 yeas to 196 nays, with 7 voting present.

YEAS: Fitzpatrick, Evans, Houlahan, Dean, Boyle, Cartwright, Scanlon, Lee, Deluzio

NAYS: Kelly, Perry, Smucker, Joyce, Reschenthaler, Thompson, Meuser

PRESENT: Wild

REGULATORY AGENCY POWERS: The House has passed the Separation of Powers Restoration Act (HR 288), sponsored by Rep. Scott Fitzgerald, R-Wis. The bill would expand the authority of courts to review a federal agencys regulations and other actions by removing deference to the agencys own interpretation of the laws under which it acts. Fitzgerald said: Since 1984 when the Supreme Court ruled that courts must defer to an agencys interpretation of an ambiguous statute rather than what Congress intended, the executive branch has begun usurping the legislative branch to issue regulations with the force of law. A bill opponent, Rep. Madeleine Dean, D-Montgomery, said: If passed, federal agencies would have a harder time protecting Americans from threats to our health, safety and our well-being. The vote, on June 15, was 220 yeas to 211 nays.

YEAS: Fitzpatrick, Kelly, Perry, Smucker, Joyce, Reschenthaler, Thompson, Meuser

NAYS: Evans, Houlahan, Dean, Boyle, Cartwright, Wild, Scanlon, Lee, Deluzio

SENATE

STATE DEPARTMENT OFFICIAL: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Elizabeth Allen to be the State Departments undersecretary for public diplomacy and public affairs. Allen was a communications official in the Obama administration throughout its eight years, then became a partner at a private communications and public affairs business. A supporter, Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., called Allen a highly quality professional with a distinguished career and extensive experience in both public and private sectors. The vote, on June 13, was 66 yeas to 33 nays.

YEAS: Sens. Bob Casey, D-Pa.; John Fetterman, D-Pa.

CALIFORNIA JUDGE: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Hernan Vera to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. A judge on the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2020, Vera was previously a senior attorney at several law firms, including Public Counsel. A supporter, Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., said: Judge Vera has extensive litigation experience and a proven track record of independent decision making on the bench. An opponent, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said: Throughout his legal career, Mr. Vera has made no effort to hide his willingness to pick progressive activism over the rule of law. The vote, on June 13, was 51 yeas to 48 nays.

YEAS: Casey, Fetterman

ECONOMIC ADVISER TO PRESIDENT: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Jared Bernstein to chair the Council of Economic Advisors to the White House. A member of the council since 2021, Bernstein previously was a fellow at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities for a decade, and before that was a social welfare official at various think tanks and government agencies. A supporter, Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, said Bernstein has devoted his career to working on economic policies that ensure growth reaches all Americans, fighting to make our economy fairer. An opponent, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Bernstein can more accurately claim expertise in partisan warfare than economics given his lack of an economics Ph.D., and said Bernstein would support policies that damage the U.S. economy. The vote, on June 13, was 50 yeas to 49 nays.

YEAS: Casey, Fetterman

SECOND CALIFORNIA JUDGE: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of P. Casey Pitts to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. Pitts has been a lawyer at a San Francisco law firm since 2010, with a focus on labor law. A supporter, Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., said: His life experience, his credentials, and his record of fighting for the American people will no doubt make him a phenomenal jurist. The vote, on June 14, was 53 yeas to 46 nays.

YEAS: Casey, Fetterman

NEW YORK JUDGE: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Dale Ho to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Ho has been an official at the American Civil Liberties Union, focused on voting legislation and policies, since 2013; previously, he was a private practice lawyer and lawyer at the NAACP. A supporter, Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., called Ho a highly skilled litigator who has experience in complex civil litigation and has a significant appellate practice. The vote, on June 14, was 50 yeas to 49 nays.

YEAS: Casey, Fetterman

SECOND NEW YORK JUDGE: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Nusrat Jahan Choudhury to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. Choudhury has been an American Civil Liberties Union lawyer and official since 2009, most recently as its legal director in Illinois. A supporter, Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., praised her courtroom experience and commitment to ensuring equal justice under law. An opponent, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said Choudhury has made statements ranging from reckless suggestions that crimes like theft do not threaten public safety to false and inflammatory assertions that police kill black men every day in America. The vote, on June 15, was 50 yeas to 49 nays.

YEAS: Casey, Fetterman
Media in Lebanon are reporting renewed strikes in northeastern Lebanon's Baalbek District by the Israeli Defense Force.

The strikes follow an IDF announcement alleging it had targeted a Hezbollah compound near Zboud after missiles were launched at the Mount Meron air traffic control base.

The reports come in the aftermath of an Israeli attack that killed two members of Hezbollah amid accusations the country is attempting to expand its strikes.

Security sources disclosed two Israeli air raids deep inside the east of Lebanon on Monday, according to Barron's.

Israel and Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group known to have ties to Hamas, have been exchanging cross-border fire almost daily since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October.

Baalbek is around 100 kilometers from the Israeli border and an area identified as a Hezbollah hide-out.

In recent weeks, heightened tensions have spiked due to Israeli air strikes furthering into eastern Lebanon.

"Today the enemy is trying to expand its attacks against civilians in Baalbek, in the western Bekaa or elsewhere," Hezbollah's deputy chief Naim Qassem said Sunday.

"There will be responses to each of them."

No details have been revealed as to where the two Hezbollah fighters died, but the militant group said they "died as martyrs" due to Israeli attacks.

Another Israeli strike on a car near the Syrian border killed a man early Sunday. Overnight fire in the region wounded four people, said security sources.

"Israeli aircraft targeted a vehicle in... Suwairi, killing its Syrian driver," the security source told AFP, requesting anonymity because of security concerns.

Lebanon's state-run National News Agency (NNA) said the driver killed by the strike had been delivering food in a car that belonged to a supermarket owner.

On Saturday, Israeli missiles struck an abandoned Hezbollah center in the Baalbek district. Four people were reportedly wounded.

The Israel-Lebanon border had been relatively calm for roughly ten days before strikes at al-Osseira, located 100 kilometers from the border.

In a statement, the Israeli military claimed fighter jets "struck a Hezbollah manufacturing site containing weapons in the area of Baalbek," the main city in the Bekaa Valley.

Additionally, Hezbollah revealed it fired "more than 60 Katyusha-type rockets" at two Israeli military positions in the occupied Golan Heights in retaliation to the Israeli strikes.

"Approximately 50 launches were identified from Lebanon toward northern Israel," said the Israeli military but did not point to any victims or damage.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant cautioned that a possible truce in Gaza would not influence Israel's "objective" of pushing Hezbollah back from its northern border, however deemed necessary.

At least 326 people have been killed in Lebanon, most of them Hezbollah fighters but including more than 50 civilians, according to an AFP count.

At least ten soldiers and seven civilians have been killed in northern Israel, according to the military.

Hezbollah has reiterated on numerous occasions that it will only halt its attacks against Israel if there's a ceasefire in Gaza.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Two giants of deep-fried industry are making things official.

On March 26, McDonalds and Krispy Kreme announced a partnership for the ages: Krispy Kreme will soon supply fresh doughnuts daily at McDonalds restaurants nationwide.

The Golden Arches says that customers with a serious sweet tooth can expect to find Krispy Kreme doughnuts in their local McDonalds in the latter half of 2024 year, as part of what the brands call a phased market rollout across the country.

Starting this summer, you might just see those golden circles of joy served alongside a dinner box on your local McDonalds menu. However, everyone will be able to order Krispy Kreme donuts at participating Mickey Ds restaurants by the end of 2026.

Which Krispy Kreme doughnuts will be sold at McDonalds?

Krispy Kreme (McDonald's)

The house of Ronald will carry three of Krispy Kremes most popular doughnuts, which will be delivered fresh to McDonalds restaurants every day. The treats will be sold individually or in boxes of six starting at breakfast while supplies last:

Original Glazed Doughnut: The OG, literally. Covered in Krispy Kremes signature glaze, the chain says this is the doughnut that started it all.

Chocolate Iced with Sprinkles Doughnut: This doughnut is a chocolatey upgrade to the original, getting dipped in chocolate icing and finished off with a spattering of rainbow sprinkles.

Chocolate Iced Kreme Filled Doughnut: This light and fluffy doughnut is filled with cream filling dipped in chocolate icing.

Krispy Kreme and McDonald's storied history

As surprising as this partnership may be, it's actually been in the works for years. Krispy Kreme announced in Oct. 2022 that it would offer doughnuts at 160 McDonalds restaurants in the Lexington and Louisville, Kentucky areas.

McDonalds says that this test was a successful one, noting that consumer excitement and demand exceeded expectations. Lucky sluggers in those areas can rest assured that those pilot restaurants will continue to serve Krispy Kreme doughnuts during the nationwide rollout.

The top request we receive from consumers, every day, is, please bring Krispy Kreme to my town. Partnering with McDonalds on a national scale will provide our fans and doughnut lovers unprecedented daily access to fresh doughnuts and the joy that is Krispy Kreme, said Josh Charlesworth, Krispy Kremes President and CEO.

Charlesworth also noted that by making Kreme Krispy accessible to fans nationwide through McDonalds stores, the company expects to more than double its points of access by the end of 2026. Krispy Kreme has been preparation for this partnership by improving its supply chain and support team, adding technology and new equipment and more.

Krispy Kreme is giving out free doughnuts today

Krispy Kreme, who love giving out free doughnuts for reasons as myriad as shoddy cell service to Random Acts of Kindness Day, are of course giving out free doughnuts to celebrate.

On Tuesday, March 26, the chain will give one free Original Glazed Doughnut to all guests who visit its U.S. Krispy Kreme shops between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Six weeks after a young asylum-seeker from El Salvador crossed into the U.S. from Mexico, she realized she was carrying a rape-related pregnancy.

The woman  who like the other women interviewed for this article arent being identified for security reasons  said she was sexually assaulted by the Mexican cartel that was holding her hostage in the dangerous border town of Reynosa, in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas, just a few miles from the U.S. border.

Once in Texas and unable to get an abortion, she found herself stuck between Americas immigration system and the state's abortion ban.

Shes not alone. Shes one of an alarming number of migrants who are entering the U.S. with unwanted pregnancies. Shes also a victim of a disturbing pattern of violence thats emerging on the Mexican side of the border, where cartels are systematically kidnapping and collecting ransom from migrants on their way north. Those who cant pay with money are made to pay with their bodies.

abortion immigration stigma (MSNBC)

Without knowing English and overwhelmed by the complex legal landscape surrounding reproductive rights, the Salvadoran migrant resorted to online forums to find information about how to access abortion pills. She soon learned she needed a combined dose of mifepristone and misoprostol, the Food and Drug Administration-approved regimen for medical termination of pregnancy, which has been banned in 14 Republican-led states, including Texas, since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.

Afraid of what could happen to her in Texas, she traveled to a nearby state to undergo a self-managed medication abortion. I felt ashamed of myself. It was like my head was telling me that everyone knew, but really, no one knew anything, the woman said.

'This is what happens to you for not paying ransom'

More than 20 people started to rape me. They told me, This is what happens to you for not paying ransom and so you remember that Mexican territory is respected, a female asylum-seeker from Guatemala told NBC News.

From October to December 2023, Doctors Without Borders, one of the few organizations on the ground in the region, recorded a 70% increase in consultations for sexual violence in the Mexican border towns of Reynosa and Matamoros compared to the previous three months. In the first two months of 2024, it has already recorded nearly 70 cases of sexual violence against migrants in the same area.

The Guatemalan asylum-seeker is one of them.

She said she was forced to leave Guatemala with her husband and two young daughters last year after they received death threats from the same gang that killed nearly half of her family. Their journey north was met with unimaginable violence after the Gulf Cartel, one of Mexicos deadliest organized crime groups, intercepted the bus she and her family were traveling on from the Mexican city of Monterrey to Reynosa. The bus was full of migrants headed to the border.

A white truck pulled in front of us, and men dressed in black got on the bus and started saying, Were from the Gulf [Cartel]. My husband looked at me and said, Theyre going to kill us.

The Gulf Cartel was founded in Tamaulipas in the 1980s. The group has different armed factions controlling the border cities of Nuevo Laredo, Reynosa and Matamoros, and it is one of the dominant trafficking organizations engaging in maritime smuggling to South Texas.

abortion immigration stigma (MSNBC)

In recent years, the rise of irregular migration has offered the Gulf Cartel another lucrative opportunity: It is kidnapping migrants for ransom and weaponizing sexual violence as yet another form of extortion.

They undressed me in front of my husband and started beating me because I told them I didnt have any money, she said. Then youll pay us with your body, the cartel replied, she said. NBC News couldn't corroborate her testimony, but three other migrants interviewed for this article described almost identical experiences.

Throughout the years, organized crime groups have leveraged the long waiting periods migrants have been subjected to on the Mexican side of the border. The waiting periods are the result of policies such as former President Donald Trumps Title 42, the pandemic-era law that allowed the government to turn away migrants, including asylum-seekers, at the border, as well as the Remain in Mexico program and, more recently, President Joe Bidens CBP One App process. All of those policies have pushed migrants to wait in some of Mexicos most dangerous cities until their immigration appointments are scheduled, which may take months.

Jennifer Harbury, an activist and lawyer who has been advocating for human rights in Latin and Central America for over 40 years, denounced the recent policies.

These are mothers with tiny children, young men who have refused to become drug smugglers, old people who have been pushed out of their homes, she said. Theyve been through hell on Earth, and theyre dying because we [the U.S.] keep pushing them back. Were killing refugees.

Custom and Border Protection didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. According to CBP, the use of the CBP One app to schedule appointments at land ports of entry has increased CBPs capacity to process migrants more efficiently and orderly while cutting out unscrupulous smugglers who endanger and profit from vulnerable migrants.

Some migrants disagree.

Right now, many people are getting on buses and asking [passengers] if they are going to their appointments, said a young Mexican woman who decided to migrate to the U.S. because of escalating violence from cartel factions operating in her region.

She has seen the way the cartels are systemically exploiting the situation. Some people say yes and they are taken off the bus, their bags are checked, and they are stripped of all their money. They are also beaten so the captors can send a video to their family members and show that they are truly kidnapped. With these appointments, everything is spiraling out of control.

Taking matters into their own hands

The politics of abortion in the U.S. is affecting migrants who have been victims of sexual assault on their way to the border, such as the Salvadoran asylum-seeker who was confronted with the Texas abortion ban.

Weeks after she went through her own self-managed medication abortion, she came across an unexpected opportunity in Texas: She found five doses of misoprostol, one of the abortion pills she once used. She knew she could be penalized for distributing the pills, but she decided to break the state's law and help other women going through similar situations.

I have two options: Either I harm my record or I help  I said, I prefer to help, and whatever happens happens. She gave her last dose to a recently arrived migrant in Texas who also learned she was pregnant after she entered the U.S. She told me, I just got here, and I am pregnant. I need the pills. I said, OK, I am going to drop them off.

In doing so, not only did the Salvadoran migrant go against the states law, but she also risked her own immigration status in a state that is trying to impose criminal penalties on migrants.

Yet she said the urge to help outweighed her fear. It drove her to lend a hand to a group of people trapped in the dangerous overlap of Americas immigration and abortion policies  a gray zone migrants may not fathom as theyre making their way north, toward that so-called American Dream.

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March 27, 2024 at 5:18 AM

DES MOINES, IA - Zach LHeureux scored the overtime winner to lift the Milwaukee Admirals to a 4-3 win over the Iowa Wild on Tuesday, March 26 at Wells Fargo Arena.

Milwaukee has won three straight games. The Admirals have a ten-point lead over second-place Grand Rapids in the Central Division.

The Admirals magic number to clinch the division title is 15.

RELATED: Check out the new and improved FOX Sports app

The team return to UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena Friday. March 29 to host the Rockford IceHogs.
By Alexander Tanas

CHISINAU (Reuters) - Moldova's Constitutional Court on Tuesday struck down legislation aimed at barring from elections a banned party linked to a fugitive business magnate who supports opponents of the pro-European government.

The court ruled unconstitutional an amendment to the former Soviet state's electoral law barring individuals linked to parties deemed illegal or unconstitutional from running for office for three years.

The measure, passed last year, was part of a concerted drive by authorities against pro-Russian businessman Ilan Shor.

Shor was sentenced to 15 years in prison in absentia last year for fraud in connection with the "theft of the century", the disappearance of $1 billion from Moldova's banking system in 2014-2015.

A party bearing his name was ruled unconstitutional and the amendment was invoked to keep its members out of local elections last year, including one of Shor's deputies running for mayor in Balti, Moldova's second largest city.

Shor has organised noisy street protests against President Maia Sandu from exile in Israel and denounced the president's campaign to secure European Union membership for the country lying between Ukraine and Romania. Sandu accuses him of trying to undermine Moldova's institutions with Russian help.

Parliamentary speaker Igor Grosu said the government would abide by the ruling, but make every effort to prevent anyone linked to criminal organisations from running for office.

"We will make adjustments in accordance with the court's ruling, but will not allow criminal groups to seize control of the electoral process and undermine democracy in Moldova," Grosu said in comments broadcast on television.

Moldova has long unsuccessfully sought Shor's extradition.

Sandu identifies Russia as the single biggest threat to the sovereignty of Moldova and has called for a referendum later this year to secure a public mandate for her drive to join the EU. The Constitutional Court last week cleared the way for the vote to be held at the same time as a presidential election.

Moldova faces twin threats to its stability from the separatist enclave of Transdniestria in the east and the region of Gagauzia in the south, whose leader has close links to Shor.

Both regions have in recent weeks sought support from Russia.

(Reporting by Alexander Tanas; Writing by Ron Popeski; Editing by Sandra Maler)
LAS VEGAS (AP)  The full seven-member Nevada Supreme Court will reconsider Nathan Chasing Horse's request to dismiss a sprawling indictment accusing him of leading a cult, taking underage wives and sexually abusing Indigenous women and girls.

It's the latest development in a lengthy series of legal challenges by the former Dances With Wolves actor that has stalled proceedings for nearly a year in the 18-count criminal case in Nevada state court  one of several cases against the 47-year-old across the U.S. and in Canada.

Chasing Horse has remained in custody at a county jail in Las Vegas throughout the legal fight. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges in Nevada, including sexual assault of a minor, kidnapping and child abuse.

The court's 4-3 decision to take another look at Chasing Horse's request reverses an earlier order by a three-member panel of justices denying him another hearing after they upheld the sex abuse case last December. The full seven-member court did not immediately set a date to hear additional arguments and has not indicated when it would issue a decision.

Chasing Horse's lawyer had argued that the Nevada case should be dismissed because, the former actor said, the sexual encounters were consensual. One of his accusers was younger than 16, the age of consent in Nevada, when the abuse began, according to the indictment.

Deputy Public Defender Kristy Holston also argued that some evidence presented by prosecutors to the grand jury, including a definition of grooming, had tainted the states case.

Holston declined to comment on Tuesday.

Chasing Horse is best known for portraying Smiles A Lot in the 1990 film Dances with Wolves. Law enforcement authorities have said that in the decades since starring in the Oscar-winning movie, he became a self-proclaimed medicine man among tribes and traveled around North America to perform healing ceremonies.

He is accused of using that position to gain access to vulnerable girls and women starting in the early 2000s.

After a monthslong investigation, Las Vegas police arrested Chasing Horse in January 2023 and raided the North Las Vegas home he is said to have shared with five wives. The arrest stunned Indian Country and, authorities have said, helped law enforcement agencies in two countries corroborate long-standing allegations against the former actor.
A City Council member in Enid, Oklahoma, defended marching alongside white nationalists in Virginia in 2017 at a public forum Tuesday night where he was questioned about his connections to racist groups.

Judd Blevins, who faces a recall election next week, declined to provide details of his prior white nationalist activism. Asked about the groups he was affiliated with, including Identity Evropa, once one of the largest U.S. white nationalist organizations, Blevins said those groups no longer exist. He also defended his actions.

If speaking out against what was being done to this country, what is continuing to be done to this country, is a crime, then I would gladly plead guilty to that, he said.

Answering a follow-up question, Blevins, a former Marine, said the purpose of his prior activism was the same issues that got Donald Trump elected in 2016: securing Americas borders, reforming our legal immigration system and frankly, pushing back on this anti-white hatred that is so common in media and entertainment.

He said he has never identified as a white nationalist or a white supremacist.

Blevins won his seat representing Ward 1 on Enids six-member City Council last year. His ties to white nationalist organizations  including his participation in the Charlottesville Unite the Right rally in Virginia  had been publicly reported but became widely known in Enid only after his election, spurring a campaign to unseat him.

Blevins challenger, Cheryl Patterson, directly addressed his white nationalist ties for the first time at Tuesdays forum.

Its time to restore our reputation, said Patterson, a grandmother, former teacher and longtime Republican.

Patterson outlined the threat she believes Blevins poses to the citys military base and future growth.

I fear that his recent past puts our Air Force base at risk and jeopardizes our ability to recruit businesses to Enid, she said. There is no place for hate in Enid.

Cheryl Patterson and Judd Blevins in Enid, O.K. (City of Enid)

While Blevins admitted to marching at Charlottesville  where he held a tiki torch alongside men who shouted Jews will not replace us!  he said his purpose was limited to preserving statues of American soldiers. Its our history, he said. Its our heritage. Its who we are.

Pressed about whether he regretted marching in a rally where counterprotesters were beaten and a woman was killed, Blevins said, One day in Virginia five years ago, or seven, is not really relevant to the next three years in Enid.

Blevins responded to several questions about his white nationalist ties by saying he was opposed to all forms of racial hate and racial discrimination.

But asked whether he would condemn white nationalism, white supremacy, neo-Nazi beliefs and behaviors and alt-right activities and groups, Blevins dug in, saying those issues werent a modern concern.

Im not going to play this game where I take things that the media says are problems from Americas past that are no longer problems today and pretend like theyre serious issues, he said. I dont care what the FBI says. I dont care what the White House says. These are not issues to Enid residents. Theyre not issues to American citizens.

He also for the first time publicly denied that he had posted on white nationalist forums under a pseudonym.

NBC News reported this month that Blevins posted on those forums under the moniker Conway. Photos, biographical details and Conways disclosure that he would be marching in Charlottesville with Oklahomas original flag  as Blevins was photographed doing  verified the match. As Conway, he posted about flyering major cities and universities with white nationalist propaganda, organizing activities and recruiting new members.

Enids mayor, David Mason, and the city attorney have told NBC News that Blevins took responsibility for the posts at a closed-door meeting in November.

From 2017 to 2019, Blevins led an Oklahoma chapter of the white nationalist organization Identity Evropa. The group dissolved in 2019 and rebranded as the American Identity Movement, which disbanded in 2020. Its leaders have splintered to other white nationalist groups.

Blevins past organizing had been reported, first by progressive media outlets and then by the local paper, the Enid News & Eagle, which published a front-page expose in January 2023, five weeks before the election. Blevins didnt deny the allegations at the time, but he derided the source of the research as George-Soros-funded leftists.

Blevins election galvanized a progressive coalition, who formed a group called the Enid Social Justice Committee. Its members protested Blevins swearing-in ceremony and attended biweekly City Council meetings where they took over the public comment periods, reading racist and antisemitic posts Blevins had written on a private forum under a pseudonym and holding up photos of him with a tiki torch at the Charlottesville rally. The group attempted to reach an agreement whereby Blevins would apologize and denounce white nationalist groups, but he declined.

The recall election has captured the attention of national white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups, who have urged their members and followers to weigh in on social media and write to the mayor and other city officials to voice their support for Blevins.

At Tuesdays forum, Blevins also faced questions about his current affiliations, including questions regarding out-of-state donors with potential ties to people in white nationalist groups.

Its not a crime to have a friend who has money, Blevins said of the Texas donor who gave $1,944 to his campaign. What he does to earn a living is entirely up to him.

After the forum, James Neal, a member of the Enid Social Justice Committee, confronted Blevins about those donations and asked repeatedly whether he was still associated with white nationalist groups.

Im not answering any questions, Blevins said before he walked out the door.

In Enid, as in most municipal elections, voter turnout is low. Blevins won last year by 36 votes in an election in which 808 people, less than 15% of registered voters, came out to vote. In its announcement of Tuesdays forum, the News & Eagle said the goal was to inform people in Enid and to encourage turnout.

The election will take place next Tuesday.
WEST BEND, Wis. - The arrests of three suspected human traffickers  and the rescue of six children  in the Philippines stemmed from a Washington County investigation, authorities announced on Tuesday.

A 38-year-old Newburg man was arrested and charged in a child pornography case last year. The Washington County Sheriff's Office said an investigation revealed the man was allegedly communicating with a child sex trafficker in the Philippines.

Evidence suggested the 38-year-old was sending money to a sex trafficker that he thought would cover adoption costs, the sheriff's office said, so the trafficker could adopt a victim and facilitate abuse. The man was further planning a trip to the Philippines to meet the trafficker and victim in person.

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The lead Washington County detective began to work with U.S. Homeland Security to identify the trafficker and victim, the sheriff's office said. The investigation involving federal agents and authorities in the Philippines played out over the past eight months and led to a raid on Monday, March 25.

(Photo Illustration by Pavlo Gonchar/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

The sheriff's office said three human traffickers were arrested, and six children  including the 38-year-old man's alleged victim  were rescued. Those three suspects will face charges in the Philippines.

Statement from Washington County Sheriff Martin Schulteis:

"Victims of child sexual exploitation are amongst the most vulnerable among us and often need an advocate on their side to free them from their unspeakable horror. These children had advocates across the globe who came together under the common goal of setting them free while bringing the perpetrators who committed the heinous crimes to justice."
One January morning in 2021, Carol Rosen took a standard treatment for metastatic breast cancer. Three gruesome weeks later, she died in excruciating pain from the very drug meant to prolong her life.

Rosen, a 70-year-old retired schoolteacher, passed her final days in anguish, enduring severe diarrhea and nausea and terrible sores in her mouth that kept her from eating, drinking, and, eventually, speaking. Skin peeled off her body. Her kidneys and liver failed. Your body burns from the inside out, said Rosens daughter, Lindsay Murray, of Andover, Massachusetts.

Rosen was one of more than 275,000 cancer patients in the United States who are infused each year with fluorouracil, known as 5-FU, or, as in Rosens case, take a nearly identical drug in pill form called capecitabine. These common types of chemotherapy are no picnic for anyone, but for patients who are deficient in an enzyme that metabolizes the drugs, they can be torturous or deadly.

Carol Rosen (left) and her daughter, Lindsay Murray, celebrate Thanksgiving in 2020. Rosen, a 70-year-old retired schoolteacher, passed her final days in anguish, after three weeks of chemotherapy with incompatible drugs. (Justin Murray / KFF Health News)

Those patients essentially overdose because the drugs stay in the body for hours rather than being quickly metabolized and excreted. The drugs kill an estimated 1 in 1,000 patients who take them  hundreds each year  and severely sicken or hospitalize 1 in 50. Doctors can test for the deficiency and get results within a week  and then either switch drugs or lower the dosage if patients have a genetic variant that carries risk.

Yet a recent survey found that only 3% of U.S. oncologists routinely order the tests before dosing patients with 5-FU or capecitabine. Thats because the most widely followed U.S. cancer treatment guidelines  issued by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network  dont recommend preemptive testing.

The FDA added new warnings about the lethal risks of 5-FU to the drugs label on March 21 following queries from KFF Health News about its policy. However, it did not require doctors to administer the test before prescribing the chemotherapy.

The agency, whose plan to expand its oversight of laboratory testing was the subject of a House hearing, also March 21, has said it could not endorse the 5-FU toxicity tests because its never reviewed them.

Carol Rosen and granddaughters Harleigh Murray (left) and Brooklyn Murray (right) visit the Irish Cottage restaurant in Methuen, Massachusetts. Rosen, a 70-year-old retired schoolteacher, passed her final days in anguish, after three weeks of chemotherapy with incompatible drugs. (Lindsay Murray / KFF Health News)

But the FDA at present does not review most diagnostic tests, said Daniel Hertz, an associate professor at the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy. For years, with other doctors and pharmacists, he has petitioned the FDA to put a black box warning on the drugs label urging prescribers to test for the deficiency.

FDA has responsibility to assure that drugs are used safely and effectively, he said. The failure to warn, he said, is an abdication of their responsibility.

The update is a small step in the right direction, but not the sea change we need, he said.

Europe ahead on safety

British and European Union drug authorities have recommended the testing since 2020. A small but growing number of U.S. hospital systems, professional groups, and health advocates, including the American Cancer Society, also endorse routine testing. Most U.S. insurers, private and public, will cover the tests, which Medicare reimburses for $175, although tests may cost more depending on how many variants they screen for.

In its latest guidelines on colon cancer, the Cancer Network panel noted that not everyone with a risky gene variant gets sick from the drug, and that lower dosing for patients carrying such a variant could rob them of a cure or remission. Many doctors on the panel, including the University of Colorado oncologist Dr. Wells Messersmith, have said they have never witnessed a 5-FU death.

In European hospitals, the practice is to start patients with a half- or quarter-dose of 5-FU if tests show a patient is a poor metabolizer, then raise the dose if the patient responds well to the drug. Advocates for the approach say American oncology leaders are dragging their feet unnecessarily, and harming people in the process.

I think its the intransigence of people sitting on these panels, the mindset of We are oncologists, drugs are our tools, we dont want to go looking for reasons not to use our tools, said Gabriel Brooks, an oncologist and researcher at the Dartmouth Cancer Center.

Oncologists are accustomed to chemotherapys toxicity and tend to have a no pain, no gain attitude, he said. 5-FU has been in use since the 1950s.

Yet anybody whos had a patient die like this will want to test everyone, said Dr. Robert Diasio of the Mayo Clinic, who helped carry out major studies of the genetic deficiency in 1988.

Oncologists often deploy genetic tests to match tumors in cancer patients with the expensive drugs used to shrink them. But the same cant always be said for gene tests aimed at improving safety, said Mark Fleury, policy director at the American Cancer Societys Cancer Action Network.

When a test can show whether a new drug is appropriate, there are a lot more forces aligned to ensure that testing is done, he said. The same stakeholders and forces are not involved with a generic like 5-FU, first approved in 1962, and costing roughly $17 for a months treatment.

Oncology is not the only area in medicine in which scientific advances, many of them taxpayer-funded, lag in implementation. For instance, few cardiologists test patients before they go on Plavix, a brand name for the anti-blood-clotting agent clopidogrel, although it doesnt prevent blood clots as its supposed to in a quarter of the 4 million Americans prescribed it each year. In 2021, the state of Hawaii won an $834 million judgment from drugmakers it accused of falsely advertising the drug as safe and effective for Native Hawaiians, more than half of whom lack the main enzyme to process clopidogrel.

The fluoropyrimidine enzyme deficiency numbers are smaller  and people with the deficiency arent at severe risk if they use topical cream forms of the drug for skin cancers. Yet even a single miserable, medically caused death was meaningful to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, where Carol Rosen was among more than 1,000 patients treated with fluoropyrimidine in 2021.

Her daughter was grief-stricken and furious after Rosens death. I wanted to sue the hospital. I wanted to sue the oncologist, Murray said. But I realized that wasnt what my mom would want.

Instead, she wrote Dana-Farbers chief quality officer, Dr. Joe Jacobson, urging routine testing. He responded the same day, and the hospital quickly adopted a testing system that now covers more than 90% of prospective fluoropyrimidine patients. About 50 patients with risky variants were detected in the first 10 months, Jacobson said.

Dana-Farber uses a Mayo Clinic test that searches for eight potentially dangerous variants of the relevant gene. Veterans Affairs hospitals use a 11-variant test, while most others check for only four variants.

Different tests may be needed for different ancestries

The more variants a test screens for, the better the chance of finding rarer gene forms in ethnically diverse populations. For example, different variants are responsible for the worst deficiencies in people of African and European ancestry, respectively. There are tests that scan for hundreds of variants that might slow metabolism of the drug, but they take longer and cost more.

These are bitter facts for Dr. Scott Kapoor, a Toronto-area emergency room physician whose brother, Dr. Anil Kapoor, died in February 2023 of 5-FU poisoning.

Anil Kapoor was a well-known urologist and surgeon, an outgoing speaker, researcher, clinician, and irreverent friend whose funeral drew hundreds. His death at age 58, only weeks after he was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, stunned and infuriated his family.

In Ontario, where Kapoor was treated, the health system had just begun testing for four gene variants discovered in studies of mostly European populations. Anil Kapoor and his siblings, the Canadian-born children of Indian immigrants, carry a gene form thats apparently associated with South Asian ancestry.

Scott Kapoor supports broader testing for the defect  only about half of Torontos inhabitants are of European descent  and argues that an antidote to fluoropyrimidine poisoning, approved by the FDA in 2015, should be on hand. However, it works only for a few days after ingestion of the drug and definitive symptoms often take longer to emerge.

Most importantly, he said, patients must be aware of the risk. You tell them, I am going to give you a drug with a 1 in 1,000 chance of killing you. You can take this test. Most patients would be, I want to get that test and Ill pay for it, or theyd just say, Cut the dose in half.

Dr. Alan Venook, the University of California-San Francisco oncologist who co-chairs the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, has led resistance to mandatory testing because the answers provided by the test, in his view, are often murky and could lead to undertreatment.

If one patient is not cured, then you giveth and you taketh away, he said. Maybe you took it away by not giving adequate treatment.

Instead of testing and potentially cutting a first dose of curative therapy, I err on the latter, acknowledging they will get sick, he said. About 25 years ago, one of his patients died of 5-FU toxicity and I regret that dearly, he said. But unhelpful information may lead us in the wrong direction.

In September, seven months after his brothers death, Kapoor was boarding a cruise ship on the Tyrrhenian Sea near Rome when he happened to meet a woman whose husband, Atlanta municipal judge Gary Markwell, had died the year before after taking a single 5-FU dose at age 77.

I was like ... thats exactly what happened to my brother.

Murray senses momentum toward mandatory testing. In 2022, the Oregon Health & Science University paid $1 million to settle a suit after an overdose death.

Whats going to break that barrier is the lawsuits, and the big institutions like Dana-Farber who are implementing programs and seeing them succeed, she said. I think providers are going to feel kind of bullied into a corner. Theyre going to continue to hear from families and they are going to have to do something about it.
By Vitalii Hnidyi and Yuliia Dysa

KHARKIV, Ukraine (Reuters) -Russia may have used a new type of guided bomb in airstrikes on the northeastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv that killed at least one person on Wednesday, local officials said.

The officials said four children including a three-month-old baby were among 19 people wounded in Kharkiv in the latest strikes since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, some of which have caused blackouts, including in Kharkiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the attack as "Russian terror" and Volodymyr Tymoshko, head of the Kharkiv regional police, said Moscow may have used a new type of guided bomb which he described as the UMPB D-30.

"This is something between a guided aerial bomb which they (the Russians) have used recently, and a missile. It's a flying bomb so to say," Tymoshko said at the site of the strike.

Regional governor Oleh Synehubov also suggested Moscow may have used a new type of bomb, saying: "It seems that the Russians decided to test their modified bombs on the residents of the houses."

Russia did not immediately comment on their remarks. It denies targeting civilians although the war has killed thousands of people, uprooted millions and destroyed towns and cities.

Two residential buildings and a medical institution were partially destroyed, and a total of 14 buildings, including an educational facility, were damaged, Synehubov said on the Telegram messenger.

NEW ATTACK AFTER MIDNIGHT

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, also writing on Telegram, reported another strike after midnight on a city district that destroyed a restaurant and smashed windows in an adjacent building. There were no injuries.

Prosecutors in Kharkiv region reported that a 12-year-old boy was killed when Russian forces shelled the town of Borova, southeast of Kharkiv.

Police cordoned off a five-storey residential building that had been hit, its windows blown out and balconies badly damaged.

"Some people were unlucky. One person was killed, others have shrapnel wounds," said Kateryna Velnychuk, who was with her boyfriend in the building when it was hit.

At the scene, a man with a bandaged head sifted through the rubble of a damaged apartment in search of two cats, which he eventually found alive.

A dead body covered with a jacket lay near the entrance to the building. There was blood on the pavement.

Kharkiv and the surrounding region have frequently been attacked with missiles and drones during more than two years of war, but the use of large-calibre guided bombs is unusual for the city.

"Russian terror against the city is becoming increasingly heinous," Zelenskiy said on X, and urged Ukraine's allies to supply more air defences and fighter jets.

"There is no rational explanation for why Patriots (missiles), which are plentiful around the world, are still not covering the skies of Kharkiv and other cities and communities under attack by Russian terrorists," he said.

(Reporting by Vitalii Hnidyi in Kharkiv and Yuliia Dysa in Gdansk; Editing by Timothy Heritage and Christopher Cushing)
By Panu Wongcha-um

BANGKOK (Reuters) -Thailand's parliament overwhelmingly approved a marriage equality bill on Wednesday, a landmark step that moves one of Asia's most liberal countries closer to becoming its third territory to legalise same-sex unions.

The bill had the support of all of Thailand's major parties and was more than a decade in the making. It still requires approval from the Senate and endorsement from the king before it becomes law and would take effect 120 days later.

The legislation was passed by 400 of the 415 lawmakers present, with only 10 voting against it and could see Thailand join Taiwan and Nepal in allowing same-sex unions.

"We did this for all Thai people to reduce disparity in society and start creating equality," Danuphorn Punnakanta, chairman of the parliamentary committee on the draft bill, told lawmakers ahead of the reading.

"I want to invite you all to make history."

The bill's passage marks a significant step towards cementing Thailand's position as one of Asia's most liberal countries on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, with openness and progressive attitudes coexisting in society alongside traditional, conservative Buddhist values.

Thailand has long been a draw for same-sex couples, with a vibrant and visible LGBT social scene for locals and expatriates, and targeted campaigns to attract LGBT travellers.

EQUAL RIGHTS GUARANTEED

But rights activists have long maintained its laws and institutions do not reflect changing social attitudes and still discriminate against LGBT people and same-sex couples.

The legislation passed on Wednesday is the consolidation of four different draft bills and recognises marriage between two people regardless of gender, rather than a husband and wife as previously defined.

It grants a couple full rights of a married couple under the country's civil and commercial code, including those concerning inheritance and adopting children.

The Constitutional Court had in 2021 ruled Thailand's current marriage law, which only recognises heterosexual couples, was constitutional, recommending legislation be expanded to ensure rights of other genders.

Nada Chaiyajit, an LGBT advocate and a law lecturer at Mae Fah Luang University, said the passing of the bill was a positive step but there were some unresolved issues.

LGBT advocates who were on the parliamentary committee had during Wednesday's debate pushed unsuccessfully for the terms "father" and "mother" to be changed to the gender-neutral "parent" in references to the family unit, to avoid complications in issues such as adoption.

"I'm happy indeed but this isn't a full marriage equality, it is only same-sex marriage," Nada said. "The right to marriage has been granted but not the full right to family establishment.

"It is a shame that we didn't go the full way."

(Reporting by Panu Wongcha-um; Editing by Martin Petty and Miral Fahmy)
Australia's Northern Territory (NT) imposed a two-week 12-hour youth curfew in the tourist town of Alice Springs beginning at 18:00 Wednesday night, local time (08:30 UTC, March 27) in response to a mass pub brawl on Tuesday (Mar. 26) that involved 150 people, many of them armed with weapons.

NT Chief Minister Eva Lawler announced that the curfew would be from 18:00 to 06:00 local time, where young people aged under 18 who are walking alone or without any adult companion within the Alice Springs CBD would not be allowed outside and would picked up by police and "taken home or taken to a safe place" if caught.

"The community [has] had enough, and so have I," she told a press conference Wednesday afternoon.

"We want people in Alice Springs to be able to walk down the street, feel safe, be able to go to the shopping center, pick up their kids from school and not be concerned about their own safety."

NT Police Commissioner Michael Murphy added that some of the violence was related to the death of an 18-year-old man in a vehicle rollover earlier this month, which culminated in Tuesday's pub brawl.

Police made five arrests and seized 50 weapons from those involved.

"That's led to family feuds and that's what erupted in Alice Springs yesterday, in a couple of locations," he added.

"The operation will be swift. We'll identify who's responsible and they'll be delivered to the court where they can answer for their behaviors."

Read Also: Australian Teenagers Injured in Gold Coast Car Crash With Stolen Vehicle

The ABC reported that the string of riots in Alice Springs has triggered calls for a federal response to crime in the town, with some local and federal politicians saying drastic action needed to be taken to address the town's issues.

Alice Springs, a remote town considered the central point of Australia's Outback region, is the gateway to major tourist attractions, including the giant red sandstone monolith of Uluru.

A fifth of the 26,000 residents of Alice Springs are Indigenous Australians, who have been historically marginalized since the island continent was colonized by Great Britain in 1788.

The government has for years curbed alcohol sales in the town in a bid to reduce rampant violence and sexual abuse, Reuters reported.

Related Article: Flexible Thief in Australia Caught Performing Yoga in Security Footage Before Bakery Break-In

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By Daniel Wiessner and Ted Hesson

(Reuters) -A U.S. appeals court has kept on hold a Republican-backed Texas law that would let state authorities arrest and prosecute people suspected of illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border - a statute that President Joe Biden's administration has argued intrudes on the authority of the federal government.

In a 2-1 ruling late on Tuesday, a panel of the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied a request by Texas to let the law take effect while the state's appeal of a judge's ruling blocking it plays out.

The law, formally called S.B. 4, has become a flashpoint in a broader battle between Texas and the Biden administration over border security and immigration. It would make it a state crime to illegally enter or re-enter Texas from a foreign country and would empower state judges to order that violators leave the United States, with prison sentences up to 20 years for those who refuse to comply.

The 5th Circuit panel's action was the latest of three rapid-fire rulings on the status of the law. The Supreme Court last week had let it take effect, but the 5th Circuit panel hours later restored U.S. District Judge David Ezra's February injunction blocking enforcement.

Ezra, based in Austin, cited a 2012 U.S. Supreme Court ruling involving an Arizona law that held that states cannot adopt immigration enforcement measures that clash with federal law.

The 5th Circuit panel is scheduled to hear arguments on the merits of the state's appeal on April 3.

Circuit Judge Andrew Oldham, an appointee of Republican former President Donald Trump who dissented in Tuesday's decision, predicted that the panel would uphold the ruling blocking S.B. 4 over his objections.

The decision "means that we'll likely never know how Texas's state courts and its state law-enforcement officers would have implemented S.B. 4," Oldham wrote in his dissenting opinion.

The lawsuit, filed in January, argued that the measure violates the U.S. Constitution and federal law by interfering with the U.S. government's power to regulate immigration as well as running afoul of the 2012 Supreme Court decision.

Biden's administration has said immigration is the exclusive province of the federal government and that the Texas law would upend enforcement of complex U.S. laws that establish procedures for deportation and allow migrants to apply for asylum and other legal status.

'REAL POLICY SOLUTIONS'

Civil rights groups that joined the Biden administration in challenging the law lauded Tuesday's ruling.

"This unconstitutional proposal should never have gotten this far, and we look forward to the courts blocking it permanently so we can get back to discussing real policy solutions," Edna Yang, co-executive director of the group American Gateways, said in a statement.

The U.S. Justice Department and the office of Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Some local law enforcement officials in Texas said in interviews they were skeptical of the impact the law would have even if the courts do allow it to take effect because of limited resources for enforcement.

"It's really not going to change a lot on the border because of capacity to do more. Everybody's doing all they can right now. Fortunately the federal government is there doing their part in most places," said Skylor Hearn, executive director of the Sheriffs' Association of Texas, whose membership includes most of the state's 254 counties.

Immigration and security along the border with Mexico are hot topics for voters ahead of the Nov. 5 U.S. election in which the Democratic president is seeking a second term in office. Trump, the Republican candidate challenging Biden, pursed restrictive immigration policies during his presidency.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a fierce Republican critic of Biden's immigration policies, signed the law in December, saying it was necessary to address record levels of illegal entries, which Republicans have said drain states resources and threaten public safety. The Border Patrol was averaging around 3,800 migrant arrests per day border-wide over the past week, according to internal government data shared with Reuters.

The Biden administration has said interference from Texas and other states only compounds the problem at the border.

It and other critics of the Texas law have said that migrants who cross the border already can be charged with illegal entry or re-entry under federal laws. Advocates for migrants have said the law could fuel racial profiling by state authorities of people already in Texas.

The challenge to the Texas law is one in a series of legal disputes between Republican state officials and the Biden administration over the state's ability to police the border, including its placement of razor-wire fencing and the installation of a 1,000-foot-long (300 m) floating barrier in the Rio Grande river.

(Reporting by Daniel Wiessner in Albany, Ted Hesson in Washington; Additional reporting by Mica Rosenberg in New York; Editing by Andrew Heavens, Will Dunham and Alexia Garamfalvi)
WASHINGTON  The stars are coming out for President Joe Biden's campaign fundraiser Thursday with former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton.

Stephen Colbert, host of CBS' "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," will moderate an "armchair conversation" with Biden, Obama and Clinton at the high-dollar event at Radio City Music Hall in New York, according to the campaign.

Actress Mindy Kaling, who starred in the television shows "The Office" and "The Mindy Project," is set to host the program. The evening will feature musical guests Lizzo, Queen Latifah, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo, and Lea Michele.

The fundraiser is expected to be the most lucrative to date for Biden's reelection campaign, which has significantly outraised former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee.

Former US President Barack Obama and US President Joe Biden participate in a rally in support of Democratic US Senate candidate John Fetterman in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on November 5, 2022. When Biden takes the stage with Obama at an election fundraiser in New York this week, it will be all smiles for a duo who collectively have spent nearly a dozen years in the White House. But while Biden, 81, will be glad to have the star power of Obama and also former Democratic president Bill Clinton at the event on Thursday, there will also be tensions with his former boss, whom he served as vice president for two terms. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP) (Photo by SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)

Fundraiser guests who pay enough can have their portrait taken with the three presidents by world-renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz, known for her pictures of celebrities.

Donors can also take part in a virtual conversation with the three presidents moderated by Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez.

The event is expected to raise at least $10 million and draw at least 3,000 people, Chris Korge, a veteran Democratic fundraiser and finance chair of the Biden Victory Fund, told NBC News. A photograph with all three presidents costs $100,000 and up, NBC reported, but the tickets to attend the program go for as little as $250 each.

Lizzo performs at Qudos Bank Arena on July 23, 2023, in Sydney, Australia.

Korge has organized the fundraiser alongside DreamWorks founder Jeffrey Katzenberg, the campaign's co-chair; Rufus Gifford, the campaign finance chair; and Anna Wintour, U.S. artistic director of Conde Nast.

The Biden campaign and other joint committees raised $53 million in February, giving the incumbent president $155 million on hand to spend  the most ever for a Democratic presidential candidate at this point in the election cycle.

Reach Joey Garrison on X, formerly Twitter @joeygarrison.

Co-Creator, Writer and Executive Producer Mindy Kaling arrives to attend the premiere of Netflix's "Never Have I Ever", Season Three, at the Westwood Village Theater in Los Angeles on August 11, 2022.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Joe Biden, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton to headline NYC fundraiser
One day after Rebel Wilson said actor Sacha Baron Cohen was the "a--hole" who has allegedly tried to threaten her upcoming memoir from publication, she thanked people who had sent her supportive messages.

"Thanks so much to everyone who has sent gorgeous messages of support in the last few days and to those who shared with me their stories of this a--hole! Don't worry I won't be bullied or threatened by this guy! And am working hard behind the scenes to make sure my book comes out!" she wrote in a post to her Instagram story on March 26.

Wilson added: "Ps my book is not ABOUT this guy - this is one chapter!"

TODAY.com has reached out to Cohens rep for comment.

Wilson, 44, previously named Cohen, 52, as an "a--hole" on her Instagram story late on March 24.

"I will not be bullied or silenced by high priced lawyers or PR crisis managers," Wilson wrote. "The 'a--hole' that I am talking about in ONE CHAPTER of my book is: Sacha Baron Cohen."

@rebelwilson via Instagram

The "Pitch Perfect" actor previously alleged an unnamed "a--hole" was "trying to threaten" her, according to Variety and other news outlets.

"Hes hired a crisis PR manager and lawyers. Hes trying to stop press coming out about my new book. But the book WILL come out and you will all know the truth," she said, according to Variety.

Wilson and Cohen both starred in the 2016 film The Brothers Grimsby, a spy comedy in Cohens classic edgy style where Cohens character, Norman Nobby Butcher, realizes he has a long-lost brother who is a spy. Wilson plays Dawn, Nobbys girlfriend, in the film.

A representative for Cohen shared the following statement after a request for comment from TODAY.com after Wilson's initial post:

"While we appreciate the importance of speaking out, these demonstrably false claims are directly contradicted by extensive detailed evidence, including contemporaneous documents, film footage, and eyewitness accounts from those present before, during and after the production of The Brothers Grimsby."

Sacha Baron Cohen (Alamy )

Wilson first spoke of the controversy in a March 15 Instagram post while promoting her upcoming memoir, "Rebel Rising," publishing on April 2.

"When I first came to Hollywood, people were like, 'Yeah, I have a no a--hole policy,' (which) means like, 'Yeah, I dont work with a--holes.' I was like, 'Oh yeah. I mean, that sounds sensible, logical,'" she said. "But then it really sunk in ... because I worked with a massive a--hole, and yeah, now I definitely have a no a--holes policy."

Wilson continued promoting her book, saying Chapter 23 would contain more information about the alleged "massive a--hole."

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
In the wake of the Francis Scott Key Bridge's partial collapse in Baltimore on Tuesday, "Rebuilding will not be quick or easy or cheap," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said.

"But we will get it done," he told reporters at a White House press briefing on Wednesday.

Buttigieg reiterated the federal government's support for recovery, cleanup and construction efforts in the months -- and perhaps years -- to come but also acknowledged there will be logistic obstacles.

"It's not going to be simple," the transportation secretary said.

The original bridge took some five years to complete, he noted.

"That does not necessarily mean it will take five years to replace, but that tells you what went into that original structure going up," he said, adding, "We need to get a sense of the conditions, of the parts that look OK to the naked eye, but we just don't know yet, especially in terms of their foundational infrastructure."

"This will be a long and difficult path," he said, "but we will come together and rebuild."

Buttigieg said that he didn't yet have a precise price tag for the rebuild but stressed that there are ways for the federal government to begin providing emergency funding right away to aid the recovery.

We don't have dollar estimates yet, but we actually have provisions that allow us to begin releasing funding even while that is being determined," he said. "My understanding is as we speak this afternoon, an emergency relief funding request has come in from the Maryland state [transportation department]. Well be processing that immediately to start getting them what they need."

Buttigieg said that he expects the White House will need lawmakers to authorize additional money beyond the approximately $1 billion allocated by the 2021 infrastructure law for potential emergency relief.

"It is certainly possible -- I would go so far as to say likely -- that we may be turning to Congress in order to help top up those funds," he said, "but that shouldnt be a barrier to the immediate next few days beginning to get the ball rolling."

A cargo ship crashed into the bridge early on Tuesday, causing a near-total collapse of the span and halting vessel traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore.

PHOTO: Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg speaks during a press briefing the day after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, at the White House in Washington, Mar. 27, 2024. (Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters)

Buttigieg said at Wednesday's briefing that hes concerned about the local economic impact of the port's ongoing closure.

"No matter how quickly the channel can be reopened, we know that it can't happen overnight, and so we're going to have to manage the impacts in the meantime," he said. "Were working to mitigate some of those impacts."

He said hell be meeting Thursday with shippers and other supply chain partners to "understand their needs" during this disruption.

"That said, the Port of Baltimore is an important port, so for our supply chains and for all the workers who depend on it for their income, were going to help to get it open as soon as safely possible," he added.

President Joe Biden has likewise pledged his administration's muscle to the rebuilding efforts, saying in remarks from the White House on Tuesday afternoon that "it's my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstruction in that bridge. I expect the Congress to support my effort."

"This is going to take some time," the president said then. Nonetheless: "We're not leaving until this job gets done."

The crash appeared to be accidental, not intentional, officials have said.

Two people were rescued from the Patapsco River and at least six people remain missing, according to officials. The search-and-rescue mission for the missing construction workers was suspended Tuesday evening; operations then shifted to a recovery phase.

ABC News' Sam Sweeney contributed to this report.

There's a long road ahead to cleaning up Baltimore's Key Bridge collapse: Not 'quick or easy or cheap' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
The collapse of a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday due to a massive cargo ship collision has left multiple people dead and throttled one of the countrys biggest ports for the foreseeable future.

Heres the latest:

 Search pauses after 2 bodies found: Two construction workers were found trapped in a red pickup in the Patapsco River at the middle of the collapsed bridge, according to the Maryland State Police. Search efforts have been paused for the four other workers who are presumed dead, because additional vehicles are encased in concrete and other debris, making it unsafe for divers, Superintendent Col. Roland L. Butler said. Once salvage operations clear the debris, divers will search for more remains, he said. The workers were believed to be mending potholes on the bridge when it fell, officials said.

 The investigation: A team from the National Transportation Safety Board boarded the ship Tuesday night and Wednesday to gather evidence for their investigation, agency Chair Jennifer Homendy said Wednesday. Officials obtained the ships voyage data recorder, Homendy said. The agency was interviewing members of the ships crew, including the captain, she said. Investigators have yet to get a sample of the ships fuel  they will take one to examine the quality of the marine diesel, she said.

 No threat to the public: Coast Guard Vice Admiral Peter Gautier, the deputy commandant for operations, said there is no hazmat threat to the public. Of the ships 4,700 cargo containers, only two are missing overboard and neither contains hazardous materials, he said. The vessel has over 1.5 million gallons of oil on board but remains stable. The ship had 56 containers of hazardous material  764 tons  mostly corrosives and flammables, as well as some lithium-ion batteries, the NTSB said.

 Timeline: The first time the crew signaled trouble was when a pilot radioed for help from tugboats at about 1:26 a.m. ET Tuesday  just about three minutes before the ship hit a bridge column, the NTSB said Wednesday, citing a timeline of events as provided by the recovered voyage data recorder.

 Ship lost power before crash: Just minutes before impact, there was a total blackout of engine and electrical power on the ship, according to Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association.

 Crew: Twenty-one crew members and two maritime pilots were aboard the Singaporean-flagged container ship, the NTSB said. The crew members as of Wednesday evening remained on the ship, which was set for a nearly monthlong voyage to Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Data timeline shows pilot warned ship was powerless and headed toward bridge

The Francis Scott Key Bridge toppled shortly before 1:30 a.m. ET Tuesday when the Dali, a 213-million-pound loaded cargo vessel, lost power while trying to leave the port and smashed into one of the bridges support columns, sending people and vehicles into the frigid Patapsco River.

According to a timeline provided Wednesday by the NTSB, alarms on the ship blared just before 1:25 a.m. ET Tuesday as the ship moved through the channel as it left the port. About that time, the voyage data recorder ceased documenting things like audio, GPS positions and speed. (Video available before the NTSB released its timeline shows the ships lights going out at 1:24 a.m., before turning back on, and then flickering off and on again between 1:26 a.m. and 1:27 a.m.)

The data recording resumed at 1:26:02 a.m.  about 63 seconds after the alarms started  and the pilot could be heard issuing steering commands to the crew, according to the NTSB timeline.

At 1:26:39 a.m., the pilot sent out a radio call for help from tugboats, which typically help ships in earlier stages of leaving port. About the same time, a pilot association dispatcher phoned the Maryland Transportation Authority duty officer regarding the ships lights blacking out, according to the NTSB.

At 1:27:04 a.m., the pilot ordered for one anchor to be dropped and gave additional steering commands.

The pilot radioed just a short time later that the ship had lost power and was closing in on the bridge. A duty officer for the transportation authority, using radio, ordered other transportation authority officers to shut down traffic to the bridge  those officers were already on site because construction work was happening there, the NTSB said.

At 1:29:33 a.m., the ships recorder captured sounds consistent with the vessel striking the bridge, the NTSB said. Six seconds later, the pilot reported to the Coast Guard by radio that the bridge was down, the NTSB said.

City economy hurt by port closure

The collapse of the bridge and the resulting closure of the port will have major repercussions on the citys economy as well as on the countrys supply chain, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Wednesday. The Baltimore port is the largest in the US for autos and light trucks, handling a record 850,000 vehicles last year.

Buttigieg said there are four main focus points ahead: reopening the port, dealing with supply chain issues until its reopening, rebuilding the bridge and dealing with road transportation issues until the bridge is rebuilt.

Rebuilding will not be quick, or easy, or cheap, but we will get it done, he said.

The Dali cargo ship is seen a day after crashing into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday. - Mike Segar/Reuters

Officials have yet to provide a timeline for reopening. President Joe Biden said he intends for the federal government to cover the full repair costs and called on Congress to support rebuilding efforts.

LIVE UPDATES: Baltimore bridge collapses after ship collision

Victims were construction workers on night shift

Eight construction workers were believed to be mending potholes on the bridge when it fell, according to officials. Two survived but crews searched the frigid waters throughout the day Wednesday for the remaining six.

Two of the workers, a 35-year-old and a 26-year-old, were found trapped in a red truck. They were identified by authorities as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, of Mexico, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, of Guatemala. Both now lived in the Baltimore area.

Their bodies were recovered from the waters Wednesday, according to Maryland State Police Superintendent Col. Roland L. Butler.

The four other workers are presumed dead, officials have said.

Among the missing victims is Miguel Luna, a father of three, and Maynor Suazo, a father and entrepreneur.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Guatemala said another Guatemalan was also unaccounted for: a 35-year-old from Camotan, Chiquimula. Another of the missing is also a Mexican national, Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said.

Brawner Builders Executive Vice President Jeffrey Pritzker told CNN seven of his employees were on the bridge on the night of the collapse. Just one survived.

These were wonderful young men. They were doing a tough job. These guys were hardworking wonderful people and now theyre gone, Pritzker said.

He said the company is in the process of putting together compensation packages for the victims families.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore praised divers who worked in pitch dark conditions, in frigid temperatures, in high tides and high winds, with mangled metal all around them.

Moore told CNN the collapse was a catastrophic and horrific occurrence for the state and for the families of those missing, who he was able to speak with Tuesday.

They reminded us who these individuals were  that they werent just special workers who were doing important work for the city and for the state, but they were people who were husbands and sons and fathers and brothers-in-law, Moore said. So, this is a really devastated community of families.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott on Wednesday asked for people to have a little bit of decency and respect when it comes to online discourse about the fatal bridge collapse.

Dont spread misinformation. Dont play bridge engineer online or in the media. Remember that these are peoples family members who have lost their lives simply trying to make transit better for the rest of us, he said.

Ports closure to have major impact

The vessel and all of its contents still sit in the middle of the channel, its bow draped with massive pieces of the mangled steel bridge.

Gautier, the Coast Guard vice admiral, said the vessel is stable but has over 1.5 million gallons of fuel oil and lube oil on board. The ship has 4,700 cargo containers and 56 of those contain hazardous materials. Two containers with non-hazardous materials are missing overboard, and 13 containers on the bow of the ship were damaged, he said.

Ten other ships are stuck inside the port in the wake of the bridges collapse, federal authorities said Wednesday.

In the meantime, the ports economic impact stretches well beyond Maryland. It indirectly employs over 140,000 people and handles more foreign cargo than any other port in the country, the governor said.

This isnt just about the impact this is going to have on Marylands economy. This is the impact thats going to have on our countrys economy, Moore said.

Buttigieg said he does not have an estimated reopening time for the Patapsco River channel,

Not only do we need to get those ships in, there are some ships that are already in there that cant get out. So, its very important to get that channel open, he said.

Ships pilot did everything he could, pilot association official says

Pieces of the Francis Scott Key Bridge are draped over the cargo ship Dali on Tuesday. - Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images

The pilot of the ship did everything that he could have done to both slow the vessel down and keep it from drifting toward the bridge once it lost power, said Diamond, the American Pilots Association director.

Diamond told CNN he has been in close communication with the Association of Maryland Pilots regarding what unfolded on the ship in the moments leading up to the crash.

The pilot quickly gave a string of orders, calling for the anchor to be dropped and the rudder to be pulled as far left as possible, Diamond said. He also called the dispatch office to shut down traffic on the bridge  an action several officials have credited with saving lives.

Dropping the anchor was in line with standard emergency procedures, but the speed and mass of a ship determine whether the anchor will hold, a former pilot for the Association of Maryland Pilots told CNN.

Were thankful that between the mayday and the collapse, that we had officials who were able to begin to stop the flow of traffic so more cars were not on the bridge, Moore said Tuesday.

But the extraordinary size of the vessel and its proximity to the bridge meant there was little hope for avoiding the crash, Diamond said.

Those were all the appropriate steps, but it happened so quickly and with so little lead time  neither one of those maneuvers were enough, said Diamond.

Maritime pilots, who are required to be licensed, temporarily board a ship and help guide the vessel as it maneuvers through local waters.

Questions over previous incidents involving ship and management company

Police recovery crews work near the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday. - Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images

As officials worked to investigate the collapse Tuesday, questions emerged over previous issues with the ship and its management company.

The ship was briefly held at the Port of San Antonio in Chile on June 27, 2023, when an inspector found that the pressure gauges for the vessels heating system were unreadable, a spokesperson for the Chilean Navy said.

Ships managed by the Synergy Marine Group have been involved in at least three deadly incidents since 2018 in Australia, Singapore and the Philippines, according to officials in those countries.

In 2018, a member onboard of a vessel managed by Synergy in Australia was killed in an accident involving the ships personnel elevator, according to a report from the Australian Transportation Safety Bureau.

In 2019, an officer on a Synergy-registered vessel in Singapore was reported missing after likely (falling) overboard while performing inspection or cleaning jobs, according to a report by the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau of Singapores Ministry of Transport.

In 2023, at least one sailor was killed when a Synergy Marine-managed tanker collided with a dredging ship in the Philippines, causing it to capsize, according to an incident report from the Philippines Coast Guard.

Synergy Marine Group is focused on the Baltimore incident, spokesperson Charlie Ridgeway told CNN in a phone call Wednesday. It would be inappropriate to discuss any previous incidents at this time.

CNNs Majlie de Puy Kamp, Flora Charner, Sarah Engel, Jack Forrest, Allison Gordon, Elise Hammond, Jennifer Henderson, Betsy Klein, Jamiel Lynch, Sean Lyngaas, Mary Kay Mallonee, Lauren Mascarenhas, Eric Levenson, Danny Freeman, Linh Tran, Pete Muntean, Tori B. Powell, Rachel Ramirez, Maria Santana, Amy Simonson, Sabrina Souza, Aditi Sangal, Eve Brennan, Bex Wright and Michael Williams contributed to this report.

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BALTIMORE -- The bodies of two men were recovered Wednesday from the site of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, officials said.

Four people remain missing and are presumed dead, but recovery efforts were paused Wednesday, and the focus is now shifted to removing the ruins of the bridge, which was once traveled by over 30,000 vehicles each day.

The transition was made Wednesday from a recovery mission to a salvage effort because officials believe vehicles are encased in the bridge debris, and divers can no longer operate around the debris.

The Navy says it is mobilizing barges outfitted with heavy lift cranes to help clear the channel of debris. Three cranes with varying lift capacities are expected, along with support vessels to remove submerged portions of the bridge, but it's unclear when they will arrive.

Maryland State Police Col. Roland Butler Jr. said divers found the men  identified as 35-year-old Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes and 26-year-old Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera  around 10 a.m. in a red pickup truck 25 feet deep in the Patapsco River.

The bridge crumbled early Tuesday after a support column was hit by a large container ship that had lost power, sending people and vehicles into the water below.

"Based on the length of time that we've gone in this search, the extensive search efforts that we've put into it, the water temperature  that at this point we do not believe that we're going to find any of these individuals still alive," Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said in a news conference Tuesday evening.

Four remain missing, presumed dead

Two people were rescued from the water shortly after Tuesday's collapse. One of the rescued workers was unhurt, the other was treated at the University of Maryland Medical Center and has been discharged.

Maynor Suazo, one of the six construction workers recovered at the collapse site.

All eight people were part of a construction crew filling potholes on the bridge at the time, Gilreath said.

Officials said they were from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras.

Jennifer Homendy, the chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, said Tuesday afternoon that a local company, Brawner Builders, employed the workers.

Who are the victims?

So far, three of the missing workers have been identified:

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 35, originally from Honduras and who has been living in the U.S. for 20 years

Miguel Luna, originally from El Salvador

Dorlian Castillo Cabrera, 26, originally from Guatemala

All six victims were working on the bridge filling potholes at the time of the collapse. Luna was identified by a nonprofit organization, and three South American nations indicated missing citizens but stopped short of identifying them as victims.

State police said Fuentes is from Veracruz in Mexico, and Cabrera is from San Luis in Guatemala.

The nonprofit organization CASA identified one of the missing workers as Miguel Luna, a man from El Salvador who was a father of three. His body has not been recovered.

The Guatemalan Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed two of the missing men were from Guatemala, according to a Tuesday evening news release.

Honduras' Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Antonio Garcia told The Associated Press a Honduran citizen was missing, and the Mexican Embassy in Washington said there were Mexicans among the six as well.

The men are in their 30s and 40s and have spouses and children in Dundalk and Highlandtown, the Baltimore Banner reports.

Perilous search conditions

The Coast Guard is leading the recovery mission at the Key Bridge site.

Col. Roland Butler Jr., with Maryland State Police, said conditions in the water, including changing currents, low visibility and sharp metal objects, made it dangerous for divers and first responders.

Divers would begin recovery operations at 6 a.m. Wednesday, Butler Jr. said, adding that the victims' exact locations were unknown.

Ongoing rain further complicated the search Wednesday, with the weather picking up in intensity and coverage through the day.

Maryland Democratic Rep. David Trone told CBS News recovery efforts will likely be conducted with underwater drones. He said the drones will be able to locate submerged vehicles and that authorities have identified one in particular that likely has casualties.

Ship had a "power issue" before the collision



An unclassified memo issued by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency said the ship reported losing propulsion as it was leaving Baltimore Harbor and notified the Maryland Department of Transportation that a collision with the bridge was possible as they had lost control of the vessel.

Roughly two minutes elapsed between when the ship's pilot notified authorities of an issue on board and when the bridge collapsed, Baltimore County Executive John Olszewski said.

The call allowed the authorities to order a mayday and stop traffic onto the bridge, an action Mayor Brandon Scott said "saved many lives" and allowed emergency personnel to get to the scene quickly.

Both Scott and Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared states of emergency in response to the collapse. Federal, state and local officials from agencies including the FBI and the National Transportation Safety Board headed to the scene.

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The bridge crosses the Patapsco River, a key waterway that along with the Port of Baltimore serves as a hub for East Coast shipping.

The bridge is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor and the final link in Interstate 695, known in the region as the Baltimore Beltway, which links Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

The bridge was built in 1977 after the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel reached capacity and experienced heavy congestion almost daily, according to the MDTA.

The 1.6-mile span was used by some 31,000 people per day and carried 11.5 million vehicles annually.

"The Dish: Recipe" showcases a savory and tangy chicken meal that takes just minutes to make

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"CBS Evening News" headlines for Friday, March 29, 2024
Best friends Toni Wells and Beth Thomas couldnt believe their luck when they became pregnant at the same time in 1994.

Beth gave birth first to a son named Luke. Four months later, Toni welcomed daughter Ashley.

We talked about them getting married from day one, Beth tells TODAY.com.

As fate would have it, Beth and Toni's wish came true four years ago, when their children tied the knot. And it gets even better: Ashley and Luke are expecting their first child this summer.

That's right: Toni and Beth, whose friendship spans nearly four decades, are going to be co-Grandmas.

Luke and Ashley went from childhood friends to husband and wife. (Courtesy Ashley and Luke Thomas)

Its a story thats going viral after Ashley shared a video on TikTok chronicling her and Lukes sweet love story. The clip features photos and footage of Ashley and Luke going back nearly 30 years. In one image, Toni is seen holding a newborn Luke at the hospital.

Ashley and Luke, now both 29, weren't childhood sweethearts. In fact, Ashley jokes that a romance would have been incestuous.

We viewed each other like siblings," Ashley says. Our families traveled together and spent holidays together. I considered Lukes sisters my sisters.

She was my built-in best friend, Luke tells TODAY.com. Luke notes that while his feelings for Ashley were platonic, he always considered her "the prettiest girl at school."

Beth Thomas with her son Luke and future daughter-in-law Ashley. (Courtesy Ashley and Luke Thomas)

It wasnt until Luke and Ashley went their separate ways for college  she stayed in Florida, he headed off to Alabama  that their relationship began to shift. Ashley found herself scouring Lukes social media for signs of a love interest, and Luke found himself comparing other girls to Ashley.

Thats when I sort of realized that Ashley was the one I wanted to be with. She was the gold standard, Luke says.

Ashley and Luke's mothers have been inseparable since the 1980's. (Courtesy Ashley and Luke Thomas)

In 2016, Luke, then a junior at the University of Auburn, confessed his feelings to Ashley. He was certain they were meant to be together, but she was terrified about what could happen if things didnt work out.

We had to consider our families, Ashley says. But she also had to consider the butterflies in her stomach.

I was falling for him, she says.

The realization came as a surprise to Ashley  but not moms Beth and Toni. Beth noticed a spark when Luke was visiting Ashley over a school break.

The way they greeted each other was just totally different than normal," Beth says. She actually jumped into his arms.

"We were meant to be," Ashley says.

The couple tied the knot in 2020. (Shannon Lee Miller Photography)

Luke proposed in 2019, and the following year, the Wells and the Thomases officially became family.

Its so funny because our sisters used to stage mock weddings. Theyd put Luke in a tuxedo and make us kiss, Ashley says, with a laugh. They wished it into existence!

Ashley, who is 19 weeks pregnant with a girl, teases that her mother-in-law manifested a grandchild.

She was asking like every week, Are you having a baby soon? Ashley says.

Now Ashley and Luke will become parents together, another adventure for the two best friends.

Ashley tells TODAY.com, Weve walked through every stage of life together.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Starbucks (SBUX) is looking to find its footing amid a sea of rising global competition.

Shares of the coffee chain are struggling as the company is being hit on multiple fronts, with a pullback in occasional visits in the US, cautious consumers in China, and increasing investments in coffee from players big and small.

The ongoing Middle East conflict presents another headwind, which prompted CEO Laxman Narasimhan to share his concerns about misinformation being spread about the company in an internal memo.

Year to date, shares of Starbucks are down 5%, compared to the S&P 500's (^GSPC) roughly 9% gain.

Though the company is facing an uphill climb, Deutsche Bank analyst Lauren Silberman told Yahoo Finance that the worst is over for the stock. "We see limited downside and believe the risk and reward is skewed to the upside" moving forward, said Silberman.

It'll take time to bring customers back in, but Starbucks can turn things around with product innovation, particularly that geared toward Gen Z and millennial customers, added Silberman.

That includes the launch of three new beverage flavors this fiscal year, including its first, lavender, on March 7.

"Some of their early Instagram posts ... introducing lavender ... [had] some of the best engagement that I've seen on Starbucks posts in a very long time," Silberman said. "Lavender in itself seems to be a growing trend popular with the younger consumer."

In the US, Starbucks is shifting more of its marketing budget to social media to reach Gen Zers and millennials, who make up approximately 51% of its customer base, per a client note from TD Cowen analyst Andrew Charles. Last year, its advertising expenses came in at $508 million globally.

The company is exploring energy beverages, which can help attract younger drinkers and afternoon visitors, according to Charles. It's working to improve US and China same-store sales, but management has projected fiscal Q2 to have soft revenue growth.

Photo taken on Feb 25, 2024, shows a nearby Luckin Coffee and Starbucks store in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang province. (Future Publishing via Getty Images)

However, gaining share won't be easy in a competitive US market. Upstart drive-through coffee chain Dutch Bros (BROS) is already offering energy drinks, which make up roughly 20% to 25% of its total sales, according to Charles's note.

In February, Dunkin' Donuts also launched a new line of iced energy drinks, SPARKD'.

So far, Dutch Bros and Starbucks are not hurting one another, William Blair analyst Sharon Zackfia told Yahoo Finance back in January, adding that the overall coffee business typically has "exceptional" margins.

Those margins are drawing fast food giants like McDonald's (MCD), Wendy's (WEN), Burger King (QSR), and Taco Bell (YUM) into the breakfast game.

McDonald's, which launched its first drive-through beverage and breakfast restaurant CosMc's last December, announced on Tuesday that it's partnering with Krispy Kreme (DNUT) to sell its doughnuts at all restaurants nationwide by 2026.

Silberman said Starbucks isn't "meaningfully losing share" in the growing coffee and beverages category and that there can be room for everyone as the industry continues to expand.

But the coffee chain is also facing increasing competition in China, where it has announced major growth ambitions.

Starbucks has built up its presence in the country over the past 25 years, opening its first store in Beijing in 1999. Last September, Starbucks announced its 20,000th location outside of North America and plans to expand to 9,000 stores in China in the next two years.

The company has also invested in building an ecosystem, announcing the opening of its $220 million China Coffee Innovation Park manufacturing facility last fall.

Executives at the helm are making the case that the Asian market is a long-term play.

"China's coffee market is still in its early stages, with huge potential to expand the addressable market," Starbucks China CEO Belinda Wong said during Starbucks' 2022 Investor Day. "Per capita demand for coffee in China will grow further from 12 cups per year to 14 cups by 2025."

However, local independent coffee shops and discount chains like Beijing-based Luckin' Coffee (LKNCY) present a challenge to Starbucks' plans, particularly as the Chinese economy slows down.

"The China environment remains promotional, which Starbucks is trying to balance with targeted offers ... while trying to maintain the brand's premium positioning," wrote Charles. "We anticipate intense market share competition to linger in China for the foreseeable future."



Brooke DiPalma is a senior reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter at @BrookeDiPalma or email her at bdipalma@yahoofinance.com.

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"If he can make it through what hes been through for who knows how long, this is going to be nothing for him," one of the dog's rescuers said of the pet's recovery

Animal Angels Rescue Foundation Blythe the rescue dog before (left) and after (right) he was saved from the streets of Las Vegas and brought to a vet

A dog found wandering the streets of Las Vegas with a cumbersome, matted coat and numerous health conditions looks and feels like a totally different dog after some much-needed TLC.

Animal Angels Rescue Foundation (AARF) shared in a post on Facebook on Mar. 19 that someone in their community reached out to the nonprofit about a stray dog needing help in the Las Vegas area. AARF responded to the report and found a dog with a filthy coat and matting "so bad" the rescue wasn't sure if the canine "even had two eyes."

In its post, AARF shared photos of how rescuers found the neglected dog and mentioned that the pup's physical condition was "one of the worst cases" the nonprofit had seen.

Because the dog's fur was so tangled and thick, AARF could not tell the dog's sex when they picked the pup up from the street. Due to this uncertainty, the dog was named Blythe. Once AARF took the dog to the vet and had the pet's matted coat removed, the rescue determined that Blythe was a male. The veterinarian also discovered several health issues.

Animal Angels Rescue Foundation Blythe the rescue dog shortly after he was found wandering the streets of Las Vegas

"He was severely dehydrated, and from eating stones, and rock, and dirt, he ground down his teeth, so he has a lot of exposed nerves and roots," Animal Angels Rescue Foundation member Reegan Tabor told KLAS-TV of Blythe.

Related: French Bulldog in Stolen Car Returned to Owner: See Their Joyous Reunion

At the veterinarian, Blythe was evaluated, given fluids to address his dehydration, medically shaved and bathed, and had his nails trimmed. After receiving these initial treatments, Blythe looked like a new dog: clean, smiling, and energetic.

"Immediately, he felt better. After all, carrying all those heavy mats was tiresome, and they hurt," AARF wrote in a Facebook update about the "sweet, very happy dog," adding that the pet weighed 15 pounds and is believed to be about 2 years old.

Animal Angels Rescue Foundation Blythe the dog after visiting the vet and having his matted coat shaved off

However, Tabor told KLAS-TV that the poodle mix is still in for a long recovery.

"He's very itchy, and he has sores all over him, " Tabor said about his case.

"Within recent months, he's the third I've seen in this situation, and it's very unfortunate. The things we've seen[ are] absolutely heartbreaking," she added.

Related: N.J. Firefighters Use Plasma Cutters to Set Dog Free After Getting Head Stuck in Tire: We Are Grateful

The next steps in Blythe's recovery are getting neutered and extensive dental surgery, according to AARF's update post. The pup is also taking antibiotics to treat an infection caused by trying to urinate through his matted fur.

"If he can make it through what he's been through for who knows how long, this is going to be nothing for him," Tabor told KLAS-TV about the procedures.

In the Thursday social media update on Blythe, AARF shared new photos of the dog, with his short fur, looking happy as he played around the home of the foster who took him in.

Animal Angels Rescue Foundation Blythe the rescue dog smiling at his new foster home

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"We are so very proud of him and how he is adjusting after all he's been through. The resilience of a dog!" the organization wrote. "He was a little scared and confused leaving the vet today, but once he went into his foster's home and met the other dogs and kids, that smile on his face is permanent."

The foundation noted that Blythe should be available for adoption "soon."

To learn more about AARF and support the foundation's work, visit the rescue's website.

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Read the original article on People.
And it comes in an easy squeeze bottle too.

Tabasco

Tabasco is giving us all one more way to spice up our day.

On Thursday, the company announced its brand-new product, Tabasco Buffalo Style Sauce, which promises to bring a "tangy, garlicky, and savory" taste with just the right amount of heat.



But here's the biggest change: The brand is swapping out its traditional glass for an easy-to-squeeze bottle so fans can drizzle the new sauce on classics like wings and pizza or whatever else they want to throw it on. (Toast? Why not? Veggies? Sure. Right into your mouth? Hey, we don't judge.) And it's part of the permanent lineup, so there's no limited-time offering here.



"Innovation is a priority for us at McIlhenny Company," Lee Susen, the chief sales and marketing officer at McIlhenny Company, which owns the Tabasco brand, shared with Food & Wine. "We keep consumer needs at the heart of our innovation process to deliver products that meet them where they are  and where we forecast they will be  with the foods and flavors theyre consuming.



Related: The Definitive Ranking of Every Tabasco Flavor

As for how the new bottling came to be, Susen said it's because of consumers like you. "The new format is a direct response to consumer demand for easier and more controlled application of our thicker style sauces, similar to Tabasco Sriracha Sauce and Tabasco Sweet & Spicy Sauce."

And truly, fans can expect plenty of heat. The new sauce, made with a blend of cayenne, oak-aged pepper mash, and red jalapeno, comes with a Scoville heat rating of SHU 1,200  1,800. (For comparison, it is milder than Tabasco's Original Red Sauce, which has a rating of SHU 2,500  5,000. So still a little kick but it won't knock your socks off.)

Related: The Best Hot Sauces, According to F&W Editors

As for what Susen thinks the sauce is perfect for, he believes it's an ideal pairing for wings, naturally, but also anything with cheese as the "vinegar both cuts through and compliments" almost any cheese variety.

The new sauce officially launches today and will be available at major retailers, including Amazon and Walmart. It's available in one size, 8.6 oz., and costs $3.56 (though this can vary by retailer).



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Read the original article on Food & Wine.
An open seat on the House Judiciary Committee has many eager to fill the vacant spot, giving them more access to directly take part in the impeachment inquiry into the president.

Two freshman members of the House Freedom Caucus have expressed interest in filling former Rep. Ken Buck's (R-Colo.) seat on the panel. Speaker Mike Johnson and the Steering Committee will ultimately decide who succeeds Buck.

"I'd happily serve there if needed," Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.) told Punchbowl before adding, "I don't think I'm high on anyone in leadership's list to fill coveted spots like that."

Crane was one of the eight Republicans who voted to remove former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) also expressed interest in filling the seat, highlighting that he currently serves on the House Financial Services Committee.

Sources close to Johnson reveal the speaker will have a definite interest in filling the open vacancy due to his longtime experience serving on the Judiciary.

Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan also has a major say in the decision. Jordan told Punchbowl he's still in the process of consulting with members and staff on who wants to join.

"We'll see who wants to come on, but we'll get a new member I'm sure," Jordan said. "I thought he was going to stay, but Mr. Buck has had different positions from me and most of the Republicans in the conference for a while."

Buck has long been a thorn in leadership's side, especially the Judiciary panel, since his resignation earlier this month.

Buck has been an open critic regarding the House GOP's political agenda. He remains one of the biggest impeachment cynics in Congress, placing doubt that there is sufficient evidence to impeach President Joe Biden.

The Colorado Republican also assisted in ruining Jordan's bid for speaker last fall, as he disagreed with Jordan's decision not to certify the 2020 election for Biden.

Buck's successor should be someone who agrees with the work they're doing on the panel, believe Judiciary Republicans.

"I hope it will be a conservative who will be part of the team that contributes to the work that we're doing," Rep. Ben Cline (R-Va.) said.

Rep. Barry Moore (R-Ala.) also chimed in, expressing the need for someone who prioritizes border security and "the weaponization of the federal government."

"I certainly hope it's a true conservative fighter," noted Moore.

Amid the bid for the open spot, Judiciary Democrats say Buck's absence will be a loss for a more distinct view on the panel.

Rep. Becca Balint (D-Vt.) said, "I will always be grateful that he dared to stand up to his party on the bogus Biden impeachment. He will say out loud what so many of his colleagues know is true and yet they say nothing. I don't take that lightly."

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Following several failed attempts over five months of Israels devastating war in Gaza, the United Nations Security Council on Monday finally passed a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire. The United States, which had been the only remaining hurdle to such a call, decided not to strike down the resolution.

The vote came as a shock to Israel, which saw its decades-old US ally abstain rather than veto the move, as it has consistently done over the years in its diplomatic backing of the Jewish state. Israeli officials lambasted the resolution, saying they have no intention of ceasing fire.

More than 32,000 people have been killed in Gaza in operations Israel launched after Hamas-led militants attacked the country on October 7, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 hostages.

Israel criticized the language of the resolution, saying it doesnt firmly tie a ceasefire to the freeing of the hostages held in Gaza. The text demands an immediate ceasefire and also demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. A failed resolution proposed by the US last week demanded a ceasefire that was directly tied to releasing the hostages.

While the US says the latest resolution is non-binding, experts differ on whether that is the case. The key is in the language of the document, they say.

Heres what we know:

Will the resolution have an impact on the ground in Gaza?

Israel has reacted angrily to the resolution, saying it has no intention of abiding by it. On Tuesday, Israeli attacks on Gaza continued.

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan criticized the Security Council for passing a measure that called for a ceasefire without conditioning it on the release of the hostages.

It undermines the efforts to secure their release, he said at the United Nations.

Foreign Minister Israel Katz meanwhile said on X that his country would not abide by the resolution.

The state of Israel will not cease fire, Katz said. We will destroy Hamas and continue to fight until the last of the hostages returns home.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu retaliated for the US abstention by canceling a scheduled trip to the US by two of his top advisers. Israeli national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi and Ron Dermer, a member of the war cabinet, had been scheduled to travel to Washington Monday night to discuss alternatives to a planned Israeli offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. The meeting had been requested by US President Joe Biden.

On the ground right now I think there is no immediate effect, said Gabriela Shalev, a former Israeli ambassador to the UN and an emeritus professor at the Hebrew Universitys faculty of law. But of course it has a moral and a general effect.

Pedestrians walk past posters of missing Israelis, including rescued hostage Louis Har (center, in blue shirt), on a wall at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv on February 12. - Oren Ziv/AFP/Getty Images

Is the resolution binding on Israel?

After the resolution passed, US officials went to great lengths to say that the resolution isnt binding. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller repeatedly said during a news conference that the resolution is non-binding, before conceding that the technical details of are for international lawyers to determine.

Similarly, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby and US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield separately insisted that the resolution is non-binding.

Chinas UN ambassador Zhang Jun countered that such resolutions are indeed binding. Deputy UN spokesperson Farhan Haq said Security Council resolutions are international law, so to that extent they are as binding as international law is.

Experts say whether a resolution is binding depends on the language used, as ambiguous language leaves room for interpretation. In this case, there have been differing opinions on whether the resolution falls under Chapter VI of the UN charter (deeming it non-binding) or Chapter VII (binding). This resolution demands a ceasefire.

The US  ascribing to a legal tradition that takes a narrower interpretation  argues that without the use of the word decides or evocation of Chapter VII within the text, the resolution is non-binding, said Maya Ungar, an analyst monitoring UN Security Council developments at the International Crisis Group (ICG), a Brussels-based think tank. Other member states and international legal scholars are arguing that there is legal precedence to the idea that a demand is implicitly a decision of the council.

The crux of the issue is language of the resolution and the way that member states are interpreting the charter differently, she added.

The US is attempting to walk a fine line between criticizing and supporting Israel, Ungar said. By arguing that the resolution is non-binding, it seems that the US made a calculation that they could make a public statement by not vetoing without facing too much Israeli backlash.

Even if legal experts decide the resolution is binding, a question remains on how and who can enforce it, said Yossi Mekelberg, an associate fellow with the Middle East and North Africa program at the Chatham House think tank in London.

The answer is no one, Mekelberg told CNN, especially as the one country that can enforce the resolution  the US  was quick to announce that it is non-binding.

Does the resolution leave Israel isolated on the world stage?

Israels Western allies, particularly the US, have long protected it from censure at the UN. Their support was in full display soon after the October 7 Hamas-led massacre, when many countries stood by Israel at the Security Council and the UN General Assembly. But as the war in Gaza dragged on and the death toll there mounted, that backing began to dwindle, even from some of Israels most committed allies, leaving the US as its sole backer at the UN for the past few months. Until Mondays vote.

They are not fully isolating Israel  their arguments about the non-binding nature makes that clear, said Ungar of the ICG. But this is the farthest from Israeli policy that the US has been willing to go thus far at the United Nations.

Shalev, the former Israeli ambassador, said that by abstaining, the US took a middle way, but one that shows the extent to which the White House is very worried and concerned about what is happening.

Biden administration officials have come to believe that Israel risks becoming an international pariah if the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens or persists for an extended period of time.

Smoke rises during an Israeli raid at Al Shifa hospital and the area around it, in Gaza City, on March 21. - Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters

Israel has faced intense criticism internationally, with calls from US politicians and European officials to reconsider arms sales to it in the face of the enormous civilian death toll in Gaza.

Relations with the Biden administration have been going downhill as Israel vows to press on with a potential invasion of Rafah, where 1.4 million Palestinians are sheltering. The US has warned against such a move, even as officials insist on Washingtons commitment to Israels security.

Vice President Kamala Harris said last weekend that the invasion would be a mistake and refused to rule out consequences for Israel should it go ahead.

Netanyahus decision to cancel official meetings in Washington in protest of the US abstention has left American officials perplexed. Kirby said the US was very disappointed that they will not be coming but insisted that the abstention was not a shift in US policy towards Israel.

He is picking a fight with Washington, at the worst time that any Israeli prime minister can pick a fight with Washington, Mekelberg said.

Despite the Israeli snub elsewhere, Israels Defense Minister Yoav Gallant flew to Washington on Tuesday to present US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin with a wishlist of US weapons and equipment that Israel wants to buy and have delivered in an expedited manner.

Shalev said Israel was facing a very low point in our relations with the US, noting that while tension exists on a governmental level, most of the people of Israel want ties to improve.

In the past, the US wouldnt even let such resolutions come to a vote, she said. (This time) the US wanted to confirm its view regarding the humanitarian aspects of Israels actions on the ground in Gaza, as well as regarding the unconditional release of all hostages.

Previous reporting by Richard Roth, Ivana Kottasova, Lauren Izso, Jeremy Diamond, Kylie Atwood, Jennifer Hansler, Abeer Salman and Alex Marquardt.

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The actor asked the court to throw out the case and to have his accuser pay his legal fees

Phillip Faraone/FilmMagic Vin Diesel on March 10, 2020

Vin Diesel has filed his formal response to his ex-assistant's sexual battery lawsuit, asking the court to dismiss the case.

In December, Asta Jonasson, a former assistant to the Fast and Furious actor, filed a complaint in Los Angeles, alleging that Diesel, now 56, forcibly pulled her onto a bed, groped her breasts and legs and masturbated at a hotel in Atlanta back in 2010.

Diesel's legal team responded in a filing this week, asking that the case be thrown out and that Jonasson pay his legal fees in the matter.

According to the documents, obtained by PEOPLE, the actor "denies, generally and specifically, each and every allegation of Plaintiffs Complaint and further denies that Plaintiff is entitled to any relief whatsoever as against Defendant and that Plaintiff has been damaged as alleged, or in any other sum or sums, or at all."

Bryan Freedman, a lawyer for Diesel, said in a statement in December after news of the lawsuit, "Let me be very clear: Vin Diesel categorically denies this claim in its entirety."

Related: Vin Diesel 'Categorically Denies' Former Assistant's 'Outlandish' Sexual Battery Allegation, Says Lawyer

Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via Getty Vin Diesel

This is the first he has ever heard about this more than 13-year-old claim made by a purportedly nine-day employee. There is clear evidence which completely refutes these outlandish allegations," Freedman added at the time.

Jonasson's complaint, in addition to sexual battery, claims discrimination on the basis of sex/gender, intentional infliction of emotional distress, hostile work environment, wrongful termination, and retaliation.

She said she was hired by Diesels production company, One Race Films, to assist the star on location in Atlanta, where his team was filming 2011s Fast Five. She claimed that hours after the alleged incident, she was fired.

Jonasson was able to file the claims due to the Speak Out Act, which prevents the enforcement of nondisclosure agreements in sexual assault and harassment cases, and Californias AB2777, which temporarily waives statutes of limitations for sexual abuse allegations that occurred in 2009 or later.



If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or go to rainn.org.



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A sheriff's office in Washington state revealed last week that it received a strange call from an aspiring Bigfoot hunter.

The Stevens County Sheriff's Office kept the caller's identity concealed when it posted to Facebook about the incident on Mar. 19. While the exact transcript of the call was not shared, the office publicized a staff member's notes from the exchange that painted the picture.

"[The caller] will be coming into the area mid-April and wants to hunt in the Big Meadow Lake area," the office quoted the memo as saying.

Apparently, the caller had contacted another state office that quickly got him off of its hands.

'BIGFOOT' CAUGHT ON CAMERA DURING COUPLE'S ROMANTIC GETAWAY IN COLORADO

A picture of Big Meadow Lake in Washington state.

"I tried to refer him to Fish and Wildlife, but they had referred him to us," the employee said.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The law-conscious hunter then inquired about the legality of hunting Sasquatch, the mythical ape-like creature that purportedly roams around the Pacific Northwest.

"Mr. [redacted] has concerns about how to stay legal while hunting [in] the Big Meadow Lake area because our state regulations are unclear regarding Sasquatch hunts," the Facebook post quoted.

"[He] needs to know: 1. Is it illegal in Stevens County to shoot Sasquatch? 2. Is a regular hunting license enough to keep his Sasquatch hunt legal?"

The caller also apparently displayed chivalry during the call.

"[The caller] says he of course will not hunt or shoot female Sasquatch," the employee relayed.

LEGEND OR REAL? HERE ARE 4 SCARY CREATURES THAT SOME BELIEVE INHABIT NORTH AMERICA

This picture, taken by in May 1981 by wilderness explorer C. Thomas Biscardi, of San Jose, California, purports to show Bigfoot in the wild.

"If he does not hear from someone today, he intends to call back tomorrow."

At the end of the social media post, the Stevens County Sheriff's Office made its response clear.

"So our Patrol Chief called the inquiring party back to pass on two important pieces of information: Meadow Lake is in Pend Oreille County Sheriff jurisdiction and he would have more information on that topic," the office said.

"2. There are no Sasquatch in Stevens County. We know this because one of our deputies would have accidently hit one with a patrol car by now!"

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Books on the Bigfoot creature are displayed at the Archives for the Unexplained (AFU) in Norrkoping, Sweden on March 12, 2024.

The Facebook post was met with amusement by the area's residents  some of whom believed that Sasquatch is real.

"Theres definitely Sasquatch in Stevens county lol," one person said.

"I loved your answers and I am sure the other county office did too," another commentator wrote.

"He is pretty naive to think he can hunt them. Quite the opposite will happen once the word gets out," a different Facebook user joked.

Two ducks seen swimming in a body of water near Big Meadow Lake in Washington state.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Stevens County Sheriff's Office for comment.





Original article source:Washington sheriff receives bizarre Sasquatch call from curious hunter
As questions surround the collapse of a Baltimore bridge after a containership crashed into it Tuesday, engineering experts say that while bridges have some built-in defenses against collisions, this one was most likely too extreme to withstand.

Bridges are and should be designed to withstand ship impacts. Thats typical of the design process, said Sanjay R. Arwade, a professor of civil engineering at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

But for all structures and all engineered systems, there is a possibility that an event will occur that is beyond what the structure was designed for. And this may be one of those situations, he added.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge, a roughly 1.5-mile-long steel arch truss bridge, collapsed into the Patapsco River early Tuesday after a containership struck it. Several vehicles crashed into the water, and one of the countrys busiest ports shut down.

Follow live updates on the Baltimore bridge collapse

An unknown number of workers with Brawner Builders Inc. were repairing concrete ducts when the ship, called the Dali, hit a support pillar. Six employees are presumed dead.

Key Bridge was fairly unprotected'

Arwade said design codes for modern bridges stipulate "what sort of loads it has to be able to resist.

Whenever a design code is written, decisions have to be made about what the most extreme conditions are, he said.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said the bridge was "fully up to code."

But the Key Bridge was built in 1977, and bridge design and technology have improved since then.

"Since the 1970s, we have a lot of advancements," Sameh Badie, a professor of engineering at George Washington University, told NBC Washington. But he said, "I saw today a couple of videos before the collapse, and it seems to me, structurally wise, it was very safe."

Roberto Leon, a structural engineer at Virginia Tech, said that while engineers try to account for extreme events during the design and construction process, when this bridge was built, there were no ships of this size.

This type of load was not really considered, he said. So the bridge was, I would say, fairly unprotected.

Retrofitting older bridges could cost millions

Officials have not specified what type of protective infrastructure, if any, the Key Bridge had.

Leon said that on a newer bridge, large concrete structures called dolphins are often used to protect the base. Dolphins can form a kind of frame and are designed to take the impact of a vessel and slow the ship down and redirect it away from the bridge, he said.

In some cases, theyre called sacrificial elements, because they might be damaged beyond repair if an event of this type occurs, but of course, they save the bridge, he added.

John Pistorino, a structural engineer in Florida, said dolphins are in use to protect the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Tampa, Florida, which was reopened in 1987, seven years after it was hit by a freighter. Thirty-five people died after the bridge collapsed into Tampa Bay.

Pistorino, who was involved in the construction of the rebuilt Sunshine Skyway Bridge, described dolphins as walls or guardrails.

They can be concrete or steel  and they go all the way down to the bottom of the river, he said. Theyre supposed to protect the abutments.

Jacksonville, Florida, Mayor Donna Deegan cited the dolphin infrastructure that's in place to protect the Dames Point Bridge  the only bridge in the city that cargo ships sail under  in a statement Tuesday. She noted that the bridge is also equipped with specialty sensors that provide real-time information about the distance between the water surface and the bottom of the bridge structure over the main channel.

Older and more vulnerable bridges can be retrofitted to add defensive infrastructure like dolphins, Leon said, but building them can cost hundreds of millions of dollars.

Im hoping that because of the infrastructure bill that passed, we are going to be able to do projects like this, he said, referring to the $555 billion infrastructure bill that President Joe Biden signed in 2021. Putting those into the budget and justifying them is very difficult when you have all kinds of other bridges that are in really sad shape. So its just a question of prioritization.

However, Kevin Heaslip, director of the Center for Transportation Research and a professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, said the cost of designing bridges to withstand fully loaded cargo ships like the Dali would be so high that we wouldnt be able to have any bridges.

Image: Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapses After Being Struck By Cargo Ship (Tasos Katopodis / Getty Images)

Government oversight of bridges could increase

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said he has been monitoring the situation in Baltimore. A team of investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board has been sent to the crash site.

Leon said he hopes what happened in Baltimore will cause port operations to change quite a bit. Pistorino said the event may lead legislators to take a closer look at vulnerable bridges in the country and the types of maritime traffic in ports.

Just like the building collapse in South Florida created a lot of legislation that required a more intimate type of building scrutiny, I think that will happen on the bridges, he said.
Taiwan is preparing for Communist China to manifest its long-standing claim to the island, and the two new ships the Taiwanese navy has commissioned will go a long way toward securing the island.

Two Tuo Chiang class corvettes were delivered out of an order of six domestically produced warcraft with stealth capabilities.

Though small, the corvettes are fast and highly maneuverable with the capacity to carry multiple types of missiles and deck guns designed to counter Chinese naval vessels, which tend to be larger with rocketry-based weapon systems. Each craft is manned by 41 sailors.

In September, it was widely reported that the Chinese military flew a record number of military flights near Taiwan, a territory that it claims as its own, and has repeatedly stated that it would reacquire the island, by force if necessary.

103 military aircraft from the People's Liberation Army were spotted over the course of 24 hours. Despite none of the aircraft breaching Taiwan's airspace, the Chinese engage in provocative maneuvers, frequently testing Taiwan's air defense systems with trajectories that initially seem threatening before abruptly changing course.

President Tsai Ing-wen commissioned the ships on Tuesday at Suao, a port in the north of the island.

She emphasized it was part of her push to revitalize defense industries in her country while continuing to purchase weapons from the United States.

Though Taiwan and the United States do not have a mutual defense pact, the United States is legally obligated to make sure Taiwan can defend itself. Taiwan's military branches, air force, navy, and missile corps, respond to the incursion of Chinese ships and planes on a near daily basis.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
YEREVAN, 27 MARCH, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 27 March, USD exchange rate down by 0.97 drams to 394.71 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 1.96 drams to 427.55 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate stood at 4.27 drams. GBP exchange rate down by 2.21 drams to 498.56 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price down by 28.54 drams to 27662.14 drams. Silver price up by 1.26 drams to 315.03 drams.
YEREVAN, MARCH 27, ARMENPRESS. Within the framework of the 148th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union the Armenian National Assembly delegation led by the NA Vice President Hakob Arshakyan met with the parliamentary delegation led by the Deputy Speaker of the Indian Parliament Harivansh Narayan Singh.

According to the readout issued by the press service of the Armenian National Assembly, welcoming the delegation of India, the NA Vice President Hakob Arshakyan noted: Armenia greatly highlights its partnership with India. Our friendly relations have a centuries-old history, and we can confidently state today that that traditional friendship is reflected in the relations of the two countries. The Armenian-Indian relations are at the new qualitative level, and both sides should get together the efforts for more developing those relations.

In the context of bilateral relations Hakob Arshakyan highly appreciated the effective dialogue between the legislative bodies of the two countries: The Armenia-India Friendship Group functions in the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, which I have an honour to lead.

According to the source, the NA Deputy Speaker underlined that Armenia is concerned about the development of mutually beneficial cooperation with the friendly India in different spheres, including the trade, transport and communication, defence, health, culture, science and education, information and high technologies, tourism and other spheres.

In this context the NA Vice President emphasized the issue of Yerevan-New Delhi direct flights.

Hakob Arshakyan presented the process of the Peace Treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the three principles of the establishment of peace: The Crossroads of Peace project is our roadmap towards peace. The project designs development of regional communications.

The Deputy Speaker of the Indian Parliament Harivansh Narayan Singh stressed the development of relations between Armenia and India, noting that Armenia is one of their important partners: The events around Armenia are in the centre of their attention.

It is noted that Harivansh Narayan Singh expressed his support to the peace process and attached importance to the establishment of comprehensive peace and stability in this process, expressing hope that the development of the Armenian-Indian relations will promote the establishment of peace agenda.

The members of the Armenian NA delegation to the Inter-Parliamentary Union Hasmik Hakobyan and Tsovinar Vardanyan attended the meeting.
The resignation of Esa-Pekka Salonen as Music Director of the San Francisco Symphony is dominating classical-music news because Salonen made no secret why he quit: a falling out with the board over his elaborate artistic plans and their cost. I have no first-hand knowledge of any of this. What I do know is that Salonen is not merely a conductor; rather, he is  a rare species today  a full-service music director with a vision and the means to realize it.

Thats what he showed in Los Angeles, where he shaped the Philharmonic as a cultural institution distinctive to southern California and in synch with contemporary cultural mores. He looked for Americans he could champion and came up with two first-rate West Coast composers  John Adams and Bernard Herrmann  and a magnificent Mexican: Silvestre Revueltas. He inquired into the LA sojourns of Schoenberg and Stravinsky. Theodore Thomas, the founding father of the American orchestra a century and a half ago, said a symphony orchestra shows the culture of the community. Thats what Salonen was about.

Music directors who are more than conductors are ever in short supply, and never more than today when a hyperactive international career seems to certify a conductors importance. In this space, I have often extolled Delta David Gier, whose Lakota Music Project makes his South Dakota Symphony matter to South Dakota. Gier moved to Sioux Falls and raised a family there.

Salonens departure from San Francisco  assuming that loud protests from his own musicians, among many others, have no effect  resonates with a 1950 Boston Symphony debacle, and also controversial board decisions in New York and Baltimore: stories that may be currently instructive.

If ever there was an exemplary music director of an American orchestra it was Serge Koussevitzky, who not only made the Boston Symphony his own but defined its mission for Boston and America. His long tenure (1924-49) coincided with a surging modernist moment  led by Aaron Copland  supporting a fresh identity for American concert music. Koussevitzky not only declared that the next Beethoven vill from Colorado come  he in effect created the Tanglewood Festival as an American music laboratory. You may well think: What a legacy! But Tanglewood today is nothing like the Tanglewood Koussevitzky envisioned and realized. That Tanglewood ended the day the BSO board named Charles Munch his successor. Koussevitzky had urged the board to appoint his protege Leonard Bernstein. Leaving aside the question of whether Bernstein at 31 was ready for such an assignment, he was in all other respects the ideal choice: securing an American classical music was his raison detre. He was even a Harvard graduate, a Massachusetts native.

The late Robert Freeman, whom I was privileged to know, was the son of the BSOs longtime principal double bass. Henry Freeman served under Koussevitzky, then Munch, then Erich Leinsdorf. With each appointment, he told his son, the orchestra declined. Freeman was probably mainly reflecting on the standard of performance. (In a recent blog about the BSO, I had occasion to embed Koussevitzkys peerless world premiere broadcast of Bartoks Concerto for Orchestra.) Commensurately, the Boston Symphony lost its way. In truth, it has never recovered from the boards 1950 decision.

And so Bernstein instead wound up in as music director of an orchestra for which he was less suited. The New York Philharmonic had never been mission-driven. Rather, it was misruled for more than three decades by a powerbroker  Arthur Judson  who frankly believed that the audience sets taste. Here was a case where a symphonic board itself stepped up in quest of an institutional mission. It fired Judson and, in the same salvo, ousted its music director: Dimitri Mitropoulos, who happened to be a conductor of genius. And Mitropoulos had earlier pursued a brave vision in Minneapolis  a prerogative denied him in New York by Judsons stranglehold on artistic policy. In any event, when Bernstein took over and declared that he wished to begin with a historic survey of American music, the Philharmonic board passionately approved.

An initiative like that would have resonated in Boston. In New York, it was too late in the day and Bernstein left after a mere ten seasons. His preferred successor, one understands, was another conductor/composer/pianist: Lukas Foss. Foss was an astounding musician (I worked with him at the Brooklyn Philharmonic). It is little recognized that, however incidentally, he was one of the supreme American pianists of his generation. On the podium, his unconventional methods inspired many instrumentalists and alienated others. In any event, the Philharmonic opted instead for Pierre Boulez, who had nothing in common with Leonard Bernstein or Bernsteins American vision. After that came Zubin Mehta, Kurt Masur, Lorin Maazel, Alan Gilbert, Jaap van Zweden, and now Gustavo Dudamel  an eclectic list resistant to lineage or tradition.

But the most startling conductor appointment in recent American decades came in Baltimore in 1998. David Zinman, a bona fide music director, had turned the orchestra into an important platform for American music. He also had a radically fresh take on Beethoven. And he was a gifted advocate whose singular Casual Concerts revealed a zany comedic gift. Zinman was succeded by a major Russian conductor: Yuri Temirkanov. That was a startling coup. At least as startling, it was a rebuff to David Zinman and everything he had achieved. Zinman renounced his Conductor Laureate status in 2001.

Beset by conductors, lacking music directors, our major American orchestras today struggle to define what theyre for and how they connect to the changing cities they serve. Perhaps the most distinguished exception, proving the rule, was the Los Angeles Philharmonic under Esa-Pekka Salonen.

Mark Swed, the Los Angeles Times longtime chief music critic, chimes in valuably here.

I deal in detail with Koussevitzky, Mitropouos, Judson, and Bernstein in Classical Music in America: A History of Its Rise and Fall (2005).
Says will ensure money is returned to poor

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that he is working to ensure that nearly Rs.3,000 crores "looted" from poor people in West Bengal and attached by the Enforcement Directorate are returned to them. He also slammed the Opposition, claiming that power and not country are the priorities of the rival parties.

Mr Modi made the assertion in a telephonic conversation with "Rajmata" Amrita Roy, a member of the erstwhile royal family and the BJP candidate against TMC's Mahua Moitra in Krishnanagar Lok Sabha constituency.

Giving out the details of the conversation, a BJP leader said that Mr Modi told Ms Roy that he is exploring legal options to ensure that the money looted from the poor as well as the money the ED has attached from the corrupt goes back to them.

According to the details of the conversation shared by the BJP, the Prime Minister put the amount of money that was paid by people in the state as bribes for getting jobs at Rs.3,000 crores.

Mr Modi told the Bengal BJP leader to inform people about his stand and asserted that soon after coming back to power he will find a way, including making legal provisions if needed, to do so.

Mr Modi also took a swipe at the Congress for its support to Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal following his arrest by the ED in a corruption case, saying those who made complaints against the AAP have now changed tactics to help the ruling party in the national capital. The Prime Minister, though, did not name anyone.

"This shows that their priority is not country but power," Mr Modi said, asserting that the BJP-led alliance is fighting for a corruption-free country for the bright future of the youth while all the corrupt have come together on the other side to save each other.

With Ms Roy tracing her lineage to 18th-century local king Krishnachandra Roy, the Prime Minister hit back at those who have targeted the erstwhile royalty for its alleged support to the British after the BJP named her its candidate from Krishnanagar Lok Sabha constituency.

Ms Roy told Mr Modi that her family is being called traitors and noted that Krishnachandra Roy worked for people and joined hands with other kings to save "Sanatan Dharma".

Mr Modi asked her not to take any pressure, saying that they (the TMC) practice votebank politics and will make all kinds of wild allegations in order to hide their sins.

He noted that on the one hand, they seek evidence of Lord Ram's existence and on the other, they cite incidents dating back two and three centuries to defame others.

"This is their double standard," he said, praising the king's legacy of social reform and asking her to carry forward his legacy.

Expressing confidence in her win, Mr Modi asked Ms Roy to be ready with the agenda for the first 100 days for her constituency.

The Prime Minister also expressed confidence that West Bengal will vote for "parivartan" (change) in the state.

The alleged corruption of the state's ruling Trinamul Congress leaders is one of the main planks of the BJP in the state, as it has highlighted the arrest of some of them, including former minister Partha Chatterjee and the recovery of large amounts of money and other assets from them to target its rivals.

"You have the challenge to save Bengal's heritage," Mr Modi told Ms Roy.

Ms Roy said people have expressed their confidence in the Modi government's work and told her that Ms Moitra, the incumbent TMC MP from the constituency, will go to jail, drawing laughter from the Prime Minister.

Ms Moitra is facing a probe in a corruption case for allegedly allowing a businessman to use her parliamentary log-in in return for bribes and other favours. She has termed the businessman her friend and refuted the corruption charges, blaming the BJP for the case.

Ms Roy told the Prime Minister that people during her campaign have spoken about corruption and unkept promises of the state government.

The BJP had won 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state in 2019 in what was seen as a surge in its fortunes and it is looking to boost its tally this time around.
MV Dali disaster highlights bridge safety after Baltimore Bridge destroyed in tragic collision

The collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge lies on top of the container ship Dali in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 27, 2024. Authorities in Baltimore were set to focus on expanding recovery efforts on March 27 after the cargo ship slammed into the bridge, causing it to collapse and leaving six people presumed dead. All six were members of a construction crew repairing potholes on the bridge when the structure fell into the Patapsco River at around 1:30 am (0530 GMT) on March 26. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP)

The unthinkable occurred in a Singapore-registered giant container ship MV Dali, almost 300 metres long and half laden against a capacity of 10,000 containers, ramming into a landmark 2.6 km bridge in Baltimore, described by a US official as one of the cathedrals of American infrastructure, and bringing it down.

The scene may have come straight out of clever computer graphics-designed Hollywood horror movie as the cargo vessel, with an all-Indian 22 crew, lost power and drifted with the spring tide of a near full moon night.

The experienced port pilot tried everything including a hard left turn and dropping anchor but was powerless to control the 15-kph drift into a pylon of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Six men on the night shift filling potholes on the bridge perished in the cold waters of the Patapsco river while two were rescued.

The saving grace of another man-made disaster was that the captain had given out a Mayday call and warned city officials in time to stop all traffic on the bridge which, on an average day, sees around 34,000 vehicles cross it.

It was gracious of US President Joe Biden to have acknowledged the quick thinking of the pilot and crew who, in such circumstances, would otherwise have been pilloried for causing such an unimaginable tragedy. The US government has also offered to rebuild the bridge, but that may take years.

If one went by 50-year global records of bridge mishaps, this collapse is perhaps only a minor tragedy in terms of lives lost, but what it has done to the Port of Baltimore, a major export gateway for cars and trucks, which is now closed indefinitely and is an important north-south artery for the northeast region, is immeasurable.

Apart from deciding who is liable for the losses, there are huge lessons to learn from the tragedy about the general safety of long span bridges that may tend to come apart in forceful collisions. A statistic to take in is that, of 35 major bridge disasters recorded in 55 years from 1960, as many as18 happened in the United States.

Engineers may stress the need for pillars and pylons with blocking mechanisms to deflect like fenders. But would they be useful enough against a force such as that of a heavy ship, its gross tonnage at just over 91,000 tonnes, ramming it like this?
Congress expressed displeasure over Thackeray "unilaterally" announcing candidates when negotiations were still ongoing

Mumbai: Cracks in the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance in Maharashtra were further widened, with the Congress left fuming after the announcement of 17 candidates by the Shiv Sena (UBT) for the impending Lok Sabha polls. The Congress expressed its displeasure over Uddhav Thackeray "unilaterally" announcing the candidates when the negotiations over the contentious seats were still ongoing.

The Shiv Sena (UBT), a constituent of the MVA, on Wednesday released its first list of 17 candidates. The list includes the contentious seats of Sangli and Mumbai South Central, where ally Congress also wants to field its own candidates.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) has named Chandrahar Patil and Anil Desai as candidates for the Sangli and Mumbai South Central seats, respectively.

Sangli was once a bastion of the Congress, but since 2014, the seat has been held by BJP MP Sanjay Patil. The Sena has denied the Congress claims on the seat by announcing Mr Patil as its candidate. According to Sena, they have swapped Sangli for Kolhapur, where the Congress has fielded Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, a descendant of legendary Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The Congress had also staked its claim on the Mumbai South Central seat, currently represented by Rahul Shewale of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena. The Congress reportedly wanted to field its Mumbai president and former Maharashtra minister Varsha Gaikwad from there, but the Shiv Sena (UBT) has now announced Mr Desai, a trusted confidante of Mr Thackeray, whose Rajya Sabha term ended this year, as its candidate for the seat.

Congress legislative party leader Balasaheb Thorat expressed unhappiness over the Uddhav Thackeray-led Senas first list, saying the party should have avoided declaring candidates for seats about which discussions were still going on. It is important that everyone follow the coalition dharma. We hope the Sena will rethink its decision, he said.

Ms Gaikwad said she had conveyed her unhappiness to the party high command about the Senas decisions on Sangli and seats in Mumbai, which were still being discussed. The Sena should not have done that. We will take further action based on guidance from the party leadership, she said.

Former Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam urged his party to break the alliance with the Shiv Sena (UBT). I appeal to the Congress leadership to intervene or break the alliance with the Shiv Sena. I am not a person who is sitting without any option. I have all options open. Now it will be aar ya paar, he said.

Mr Nirupam, who lost in the Mumbai North West constituency in the last two elections, wanted to contest the poll for a third time. However, the Sena (UBT) has announced Amol Kirtikar as its candidate for the seat.

When asked, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said such things happen in an alliance, adding that these dynamics will not affect the MVA. We had a sitting MP in Ramtek, but the Congress candidate has even filed a nomination. So its fine. Alliances work like this, he said.
Puerto Rico has declared an epidemic as dengue cases continue to spread on the island.

549 cases have been reported as of now, and more than 340 people have been hospitalized, reported Puerto Rico's health department.

"As of Mar. 21, 2024, the Department of Health's epidemiological surveillance of diseases has observed a 140% increase in dengue cases for Puerto Rico compared to the same period last year," the department said in a press release on Monday.

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness that spreads in tropical and subtropical environments, typically causing a high fever and flu-like symptoms. However, some may not feel any symptoms at all.

In a post on X, Puerto Rico Health Secretary Carlos Mellado Lopez said he has been monitoring the outbreaks of dengue and coronavirus.

"The increase in dengue cases requires that all components of society join forces in order to prevent the contagion and spread of this virus, which is why we call for prevention," Lopez wrote.

Puerto Rico isn't the only island hit with a dengue outbreak. Jamaica's Ministry of Health declared a dengue infestation on Sept. 23 following an increase in the number of cases reported.

According to the US Embassy of Jamaica, 1,060 were confirmed infected at the time.

By November, nine people had died, and more than 3,100 were reportedly infected with dengue.

Jamaica's chief medical officer, Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor McKenzie, said in January that dengue remains a concern in the country and asked residents to monitor water containers for mosquitoes, destroy potential breeding sites, and wear protective clothing and mosquito repellant to help prevent the spread of the disease.

The CDC is warning travelers to stay vigilant and protect themselves from mosquito bites.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
by Shafique Khokhar

The Catholic Commission for Interreligious Dialogue and Ecumenism organised an Iftar, the dinner that breaks the Ramadan fast, together with other minorities. For Archbishop Benny Mario Travas, the event is a testament to the values of compassion, empathy, and mutual respect that bind everyone.

Karachi (AsiaNews)  The Catholic Commission for Interreligious Dialogue and Ecumenism (CCIDE) of the Archdiocese of Karachi held an Iftar, the dinner that breaks the fast at sunset during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, together with Muslims, Christians, and members of other religious minorities.

The main theme of the event was Lets join our hands to serve our beloved country Pakistan, said CCIDE director Fr Shakeel Gulzar, to recognise and enhance the services that all faiths perform for the progress of Pakistan.

The meeting was noteworthy for the presence of Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Ismailis, and Baha'is who together served Iftar to their Muslim compatriots, a gesture that resonates deeply with the spirit of Ramadan and emphasises the values of compassion and solidarity.

Kashif Anthony, of the National Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace, said that such an event serves as an example of people working together to achieve positive change in society, especially by intensifying commitment to those in need.

Zehra Shellwani, from the Ismaili community, said that attending an interfaith Iftar is not just about sharing a meal, but means building relationships, fostering understanding, and promoting peace and harmony in a diverse and vibrant city.

Sameer Aeli, president of Saffar Buddies and a Muslim, called the Iftar organised by the Catholic Church for Muslims a moving event, which showed unity and solidarity between different communities.

Archbishop Benny Mario Travas stressed the importance of coming together and honouring our faith in the one God. This unity, he noted, is a testament to the values of compassion, empathy, and mutual respect that bind us all.

In these days of fasting and Lent we have to empty ourselves of our burden of sin and temptation, we have to humble ourselves and move towards Jesus by looking at His Cross which is the sign of our Salvation, read the archbishops message on Palm Sunday for Christians.

We have to fulfil the will of God, take out time for God and pray, leave ourselves in the hands of God and Trust Him, for He will bless us and raise us from our burdens, it also said.

For Naveed Anthony, the new deputy speaker of the Sindh provincial assembly, the gathering shows that there is a great place in hearts for others and that everyone can make their own contribution to building our communities.
Plans for the structure were announced earlier this year, but a government committee has now approved its budget. The project includes a series of parallel and feeder roads to connect some of India's main military bases to the border. The government fears that the influx of refugees could destabilise the local inter-ethnic balance.

New Delhi (AsiaNews/Agencies)  India plans to spend almost US$ 3.7 billion to build a fence along the border with Myanmar within a decade.

The Indian government made then announcement in January, and the plan is now taking shape after a government committee approved the projects budget, which now needs only the green light from Prime Minister Narendra Modis cabinet.

The fence, which will run along the 1,610 km border, is designed to curb various illegal activities, including people fleeing Myanmars civil conflict. In fact, the fence marks the end of free movement between India and Myanmar.

Since Myanmars military seized power in a coup in February 2021, thousands of people have fled the fighting and sought refuge abroad.

Communities on both sides of the India-Myanmar border often share ethnic ties, but Delhi fears that a further influx of refugees could destabilise interethnic balance within India's northeastern states.

Last year for example, violence broke out between ethnic Kuki and Meitei in the state of Manipur, and the situation is far from being pacified. Local authorities blame the violence on the porous border that allows migrants from Myanmar to enter India.

The government committee that approved spending for fence construction also agreed to build a series of parallel and feeder roads connecting some of India's main military bases to the border, a source told Reuters.

Due to the hilly terrain and the use of advanced technology, the fence and roads will cost nearly 125 million rupees (US$ 1.5 million) per kilometre, an anonymous source said.

This is a very expensive, considering that the fence built on the border with Bangladesh in 2020 cost 55 million rupees per kilometre.
Today's news: new deaths in Israel and Lebanon in the war front with Hezbollah. The Singapore ship that caused the Baltimore disaster had passed two overhauls last year. Mumbai overtakes Beijing in number of billionaires. Russian dissident Kara-Murza's wife: prisoner exchanges with Moscow political prisoners to save their lives.

THAILAND

Thailand's lower house has passed a law legally recognizing same-sex marriage. To become law, the bill still needs to be approved by the Senate and royal enactment. This is expected to happen by the end of 2024, making Thailand the only country in Southeast Asia to recognize same-sex unions.

LEBANON-ISRAEL

Fresh clashes in the last few hours in the Middle East, including on the northern front between Israel and Lebanon. An Israeli worker was killed this morning in Kyriat Shmona after an industrial area was hit by Hezbollah rockets in response to an Israeli raid that killed 7 people yesterday in al-Habbariyeh in southern Lebanon. Meanwhile, last night in new demonstrations in Tel Aviv in favor of the ceasefire, 4 relatives of the hostages kidnapped by Hamas who were blocking a busy road were also arrested.

SINGAPORE-UNITED STATES

The Singapore-flagged Dali container ship which crashed into a pillar and caused the collapse of the Baltimore bridge passed two international port inspections last year. This was announced by the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore. The inspections were carried out in June and September 2023. The crew of the ship - which was headed to Colombo in Sri Lanka - was made up of 22 sailors of Indian nationality, who promptly raised the alarm.

INDIA

According to the Global Rich List 2024 published by the Hurun Research Institute, Mumbai has overtaken Beijing as Asia's billionaire capital for the first time. Mumbai added 26 billionaires during the year to rise to third place overall in the world. The number of billionaires in India has reached 271 with a combined wealth of trillion.

MONGOLIA

Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn are seeking to seize two New York apartments purchased by former Mongolian Prime Minister Sukhbaatar Batbold with stolen mining funds. In a high-end real estate money laundering operation, it emerged that Batbold and his family purchased the two Midtown Manhattan apartments for a total of million in 2012 and 2015.

RUSSIA

The wife of Russian opponent Vladimir Kara-Murza, Evgenija, appealed to the authorities of all Western countries, in a meeting with journalists in Geneva, to propose prisoner exchanges to Moscow with the aim of freeing political prisoners in Russia, like her husband sentenced to 25 years in concentration camps and many others. People's lives are at stake, she commented.

TURKMENISTAN

The Interior Ministry of Turkmenistan has ordered meetings to be organized throughout the country with state employees, teachers and students of all schools to discuss the "fight against terrorism", and has invited all those who are carrying out his studies in Russia, following the March 22 massacre, to "avoid any involvement".
by Vladimir Rozanskij

The Isis cell in the region between Afghanistan and Central Asia sees Russia as the main support for its two worst enemies, the regimes in Kabul and Tehran. While in Tajikistan, President Rakhmon stigmatises the high number of Tajiks among the militia, but according to his opponents their radicalisation is the effect of his twenty years of repression.

Moscow (AsiaNews) - The ISIS cell linked to Afghanistan, the Vilayat Khorasan known as "Isis-K", immediately claimed responsibility for the attack on the Krokus City Hall on the outskirts of Moscow with the massacre of 137 people and hundreds injured.

The authenticity of these statements is also supported by the videos shot by the terrorists themselves, despite the attempts of Putin and the Russians to direct suspicion on the "Ukrainian Nazis" who would train terrorists against Russia on behalf of the Americans and the entire West .

ISIS-K appeared for the first time in 2014, as a group supporting ISIS in Iraq, and the name "Khorasan" recalls a region that later disappeared which extended across the territories of Afghanistan, Iran and other areas of Central Asia .

Its adherents operated in the northern and eastern areas of Afghanistan, but in 2019 they were overwhelmed in the fighting against both the Taliban and the Western coalition still present in the country. However, a 2023 UN Security Council report spoke of a growth of the movement, which had exceeded 6,000 militiamen, gathering citizens from Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia, Turkey, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

According to military analyst and Israeli police officer Sergei Migdal, the attack in Moscow was most likely organized by the Afghan-Tajik wing of ISIS-K. In his opinion, the shameful retreat of the Americans in 2021 then allowed the Taliban government in Kabul to show itself as friends of Russia, and its members with long beards who walk freely at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum will soon participate in musical competitions or sportsmen together with the Belarusians and the Chinese". Khorasan would actually react to this situation, remaining historically an opponent of the Taliban, deemed "too soft" in pursuing the true purity of radical Islam.

ISIS also appears to be opposed to the Iranian Islamic regime, which has itself become one of Russia's main partners in the Middle East. This would be the reason for the attack carried out in January during the ceremony for the anniversary of the killing of General Qasem Soleimani, where over one hundred people died following the explosions caused by Vilayat Khorasan.

Russia supports the Taliban and the Iranians because they are against America, certainly not for love of Islamic practices  observes Migdal  and ISIS with its Afghan section sees Russia as the main support for its two worst enemies, the regimes of Kabul and Tehran. A few months ago there was also an attack against the Russian embassy in Afghanistan.

Tajikistan is particularly suffering from this tangle of hostility, as it sees many of its citizens joining the Afghan troops of ISIS, given the impossibility of expressing radical Islamic positions within the country.

According to President Emomali Rakhmon, in the last three years alone, attacks have been carried out in 10 different states with the participation of 24 Tajik citizens, who are often recruited even just for money, exploiting their ethnic proximity and religious tendencies.

This certainly does not help the reputation of a country already considered one of the worst dictatorships in Central Asia, which must also suffer the shame of being associated with terrorism and extremism.

Rakhmon's opponents, mostly abroad or in prison, believe that the radicalization of Tajiks is precisely the effect of twenty years of repression, which prevents any form of free expression of thought.

Furthermore, state policy pushes migrants towards Russia, where an estimated 1.5 to 2.5 million Tajiks live; last year alone, 174 thousand of them obtained Russian citizenship.

Now the Krokus massacre has cast a further shadow over the entire Tajik community in Russia, provoking great hostility towards them, and thus cultivating an increasingly open terrain for the war of all against all.
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Similarly priced to the Kia Picanto, the Dacia Sandero is one of the most affordable cars available new in the United Kingdom at the moment of reporting. The 2024 model year adds more choice and power in the form of two new trim levels (Sandero Journey and Stepway Extreme), a new engine (TCe 110), and a new transmission (CVT).

CVT

Photo: Dacia

WLTP

ADAS

Available to order from April 3, the Sandero Journey kicks off at 15,795 on-the-road or $19,935 at current exchange rates. What are you getting for your money? For starters, 16-inch alloy wheels dubbed Randia and black-painted side mirrors. Very popular with Duster customers, the Journey grade further sweetens the deal with a shark-fin antenna and a center armrest with console storage.Standard goodies also include a removable phone support, door sill protectors, and a flexible trunk floor. Automatic air conditioning, a backup camera, rear parking sensors, an electronic parking brake, 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment with DAB radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto also need to be mentioned, along with the aforementionedThe continuously variable transmission is an optional extra, though, and for some reason or another, it's compatible with the TCe 90 three-pot turbo only. The TCe 110 comes with a manual in the Sandero Stepway Extreme exclusively. As implied, it belts out 110 metric ponies (108 hp).Peak torque is 200 Nm (148 pound-feet) at 2,900 revolutions per minute, which isn't too shabby for a displacement of 999 cubic centimeters in a car that weighs nearly 1.2 tons. However, 10-odd seconds to 62 miles per hour (100 kilometers per hour) makes the Sandero Stepway Extreme TCe 110 rather slow by modern subcompact car standards.Dacia UK advertises this version at 18,645 on-the-road or $23,530 at current exchange rates. Lower down the spectrum, prospective customers are presented with the TCe 100 bi-fuel engine, the TCe 90 CVT, and the TCe 90 MT. Curiously enough, Dacia UK refers to the continuously variable transmission as being an automatic, which implies a torque converter a la the ZF 9HP for transverse applications and the ZF 8HP for longitudinal applications.Even though it works harder than the TCe 100 bi-fuel and TCe 90, the TCe 110 is frugal at 45.6 miles per gallon on thecombined test cycle. That's nearly 38 miles per gallon in the United States, meaning 6.2 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers.Starting April 2024, the Sandero and Sandero Stepway for the United Kingdom are GSR2 compliant. The European General Safety Regulation 2 mostly comprises enhancedfeatures, including advanced emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and intelligent speed assist.Last year, the Renault-owned Dacia brand sold 562,890 vehicles in the Old Continent. The Sandero moved 269,899 units, whereas the Duster crossover ranked second overall with 200,633 deliveries.
Three hundred former patients of a Chicago area gynecologist believe they were violated, and two top Chicago hospitals did nothing to protect them.

According to a lawsuit filed in Cook County on Tuesday, the patients said Endeavor Health, which operates Northstone Medical Group and Swedish Covenant Hospital, is as at fault.

In 2021, Dr. Fabio Ortega pleaded guilty to sexually abusing two patients. However, once the news became public, more of his former patients came forward with accusations that they were also sexually assaulted.

"I thought that I was the only one," said the woman at the center of Tuesday's lawsuit, identified only as Jane Doe. "You don't think when you go to a doctor, you're going to ... be raped, or touched inappropriately."

Jane Doe Speaks Up

According to her lawsuit, Jane Doe said the abuse began when her husband stopped coming to her gynecological appointments in the early 2000s.

"I start noticing uncomfortable conversations with Dr. Ortega, asking me like, how my husband was in bed," she said.

Jane Doe said, that while she did search online for complaints on Dr. Ortega, she found none and that she did not know if his behavior was normal for a gynecologist. That changed in 2016.

"He told me, 'I want you to have an orgasm.' That's when I told him, 'No, I feel uncomfortable. I don't like it, I'm not going to do it.' And that was the last time I saw Dr. Ortega," said Jane Doe, who did not speak about her experience initially and only came out after his sentencing.

"He knew that using the white coat could get away with these forms of abuse, and sadly this patient population was not believed, was not heard the way they should've been from the hospital," Parker Stinar, Jane Doe's attorney, and managing partner with Stinar Gould Grieco & Hensley, said.

Stinar said Ortega had "a history of sexual abuse and predatory behavior against female patients" that started in the early 1990s, yet the lawsuit alleges both Northshore and Swedish "ignored and concealed the abuse."

According to the suit, there was a police complaint made against Ortega in 2004, but nothing resulted from it.

The convicted man worked at Swedish Covenant Hospital between 1989 and 2007 and was employed by Northshore University Health System between 2006 and 2017.

"Over numerous decades, patients raised concerns about Dr Ortega. Whether it was to his schedule clerk, saying 'I never want to see him again' or a subsequent medical provider, nurse, physician of 'that made my uncomfortable.' Even in 2004 there was a police report made and there was no further action or investigation made. Hospitals need to be held responsible for inaction," Stinar said.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Hyundai Santa Cruz received a comprehensive upgrade for the 2025 model year, with more capable driver assistance systems, a revamped cockpit, and a streamlined design. However, the engine compartment has no meaningful changes to appease customers who want a hybrid powertrain.

HVAC

Photo: Hyundai

DCT

Hyundai's unibody compact pickup shares the N3 platform with its brother Tucson, both receiving a comprehensive upgrade in time for the New York Auto Show. Hyundai Santa Cruz is less of a work truck and more of an adventure vehicle or, as Hyundai calls it, Sport Adventure Vehicle. For the 2025 model year, Hyundai offered a modest design change on the outside, mimicking the refreshed Tucson's design. This gives it a more aggressive front fascia with more vertical lines and redesigned headlights. Hyundai also describes the new grille as "menacing."The off-road-oriented Santa Cruz XRT is even more capable thanks to an increased approach angle and new all-terrain tires wrapping the unique wrench-inspired alloy wheels. The new XRT trim offers exclusive front and rear bumper design and a unique front grille. The rugged variant of the Hyundai Santa Cruz now comes with front tow hooks, another distinctive feature that better prepares it for tough conditions.More radical changes are visible in the cabin, where the dashboard features a panoramic curved display that incorporates an optional 12.3-inch driver information cluster and an up to 12.3-inch infotainment system for an immersive digital experience. The center stack controls provide physical switchgear for the most frequently used audio andfunctions. These replace the previous touchscreen-heavy interface that some have criticized for not being intuitive enough. The dashboard changes allowed Hyundai to provide additional storage in Santa Cruz's cabin, including a new shelf above the glovebox.The new infotainment system comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration on all trim levels. At the same time, the new unit now supports over-the-air software and firmware updates. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz also comes with Bluelink+ connected car tech, a Hyundai Pay in-car payment system, a fingerprint scanner, and a new towing drive mode for the 2.5L turbocharged powertrain on Limited and XRT only. In terms of safety technology, the refreshed Santa Cruz features Forward Attention Warning (FAW) as standard.Sadly, there is no change under the hood of the refreshed Santa Cruz, even though owners wished Hyundai offered new hybrid powertrains borrowed from Tucson . As such, Santa Cruz soldiers on with the 2.5-liter units, with a naturally-aspirated engine developing 191 horsepower and a turbocharged option for 281 horsepower. The 191-hp powerplant is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that promises quick shifts thanks to its multi-disc and individually controlled hydraulic channel torque converter. The 281-hp engine relies on an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission ().
Hyundai and Kia inaugurated the 2024 New York Auto Show press days as the siblings brought to America the enhanced 2025 Tucson and facelifted Santa Cruz plus the fresh K4  Forte's renamed successor.

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HVAC

PHEV

kW

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We already knew that Hyundai was going to grace New York with the refreshed Santa Cruz unibody compact pickup truck produced in Montgomery, Alabama, at HMMA and the Tucson crossoversibling because the South Korean company teased their arrival a few days ago. Now it's time to see what makes them tick.As far as the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz is concerned, it faces an uphill battle against the more popular, cheaper, and electrified 2024 Ford Maverick, but the company is convinced the enhancements will make their offering more compelling than the Mexico-produced rival. Meanwhile, the American specification 2025 Hyundai Tucson follows the international version of being "smarter, more capable," and slightly more rugged.The updated compact crossover SUV continues with the same Sensuous Sportiness design identity but now has a "more commanding front and rear appearance, updated lighting signatures, new alloy wheel designs, and a significantly redesigned interior." Aditionally, a wide array of driver comfort, convenience, and safety technologies were added to the CUV's list of features."The refreshed 2025 Tucson SUV expands the appeal of our full-spectrum eco-powertrain approach, offering internal combustion, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models in a popular compact SUV design," said Jose Munoz, president and global COO of Hyundai Motor Company and president and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America. "With all-wheel drive offered on gas and hybrid models, customers can enjoy all-road, all-weather capability coupled with outstanding efficiency and an attractive variety of trims, including outdoor-focused XRT and sporty N Line models."We don't have the pricing details just yet, but the company promises that 2025 Tucson 2.5-liter models will arrive first at US dealerships in June, followed by the 1.6-liter turbo, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants later during the final days of summer. The revised exterior styling elements include a redesigned grille, modified front and rear bumpers, an upgraded daytime running light signature, fresh alloy wheels, anodized aluminum badges, as well as a 75-mm longer rear wiper blade.More importantly, the 2025 Tucson has a huge upgrade in store for the cockpit, where there's a redesigned panoramic curved display with an optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a larger 12.3-inch infotainment display. The center stack now welcomes back supplementary knobs and switchgear for frequent-use driver controls, including audio volume and tuning, along with certaincontrols. There's also a new center console, fresh door panel accents, and a different steering wheel. Behind it, on premium versions, sits the new column-mounted gear selector for the shift-by-wire transmission function.Under the hood, the 2025 Tucson is set to arrive with the Smartstream 2.5-liter direct-injected and multi-port-injected gasoline inline-four that's good for 187 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 178 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm  it sends the power to the wheels via a standard eight-speed automatic transmission. The Hybrid andmodels both use a 1.6-liter, direct-injected, turbocharged engine with electric assistance  it produces a combined system output of 231 horsepower in its classic hybrid application and an estimated 258 lb.-ft. of torque thanks to a more powerful 47.7-electric motor (44.2 kW in the past) and 1.49-lithium-ion battery pack.The plug-in hybrid model also has a punchier 72-kW electric motor, and the combined system output is now 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. The battery pack has 13.8 kWh, and Level 2 charging is offered at speeds of up to 7.2 kW thanks to the onboard charger system.
Last year, Mercedes-Benz surprised everyone with the bold CLA concept, previewing a new EV lineup outside the EQ branding. Soon, we found out that AMG was preparing an extreme take on the electric CLA. After completing the cold-weather tests in Northern Europe earlier this month, the Mercedes-AMG CLA EV was spotted testing on public roads in Germany.

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Mercedes-Benz signaled it might retire its EQ brand of electric vehicles and return to its classic nomenclature. This has become clear after the German brand introduced the CLA concept at last year's IAA Mobility auto show in Munich. The concept previewed an electric compact sedan built on the upcoming MMA architecture reserved for entry-level models. The MMA has been developed specifically, but not exclusively for electric vehicles, as Mercedes-Benz wants bothandvariants of its compact models in the near future.The platform will underpin the brand's compact models like the A-Class, CLA, GLA, and GLB, although it's unclear whether Mercedes-Benz will keep them all in its future lineup. Previous rumors indicated that the German brand would likely push the compact models higher up the luxury ladder while axing some that don't offer enough sales margins. The upcoming CLA looks like a safe bet, though, considering the price premium the four-door coupe commands.We've already seen prototypes of the upcoming electric CLA tested in cold-weather conditions in the Arctics, and we've also seen itsvariant. Although initial rumors indicated that AMG might use its own architecture, it doesn't seem to be the case with the CLA. After all, it doesn't make much sense in this segment, technically and financially. This is even clearer as the Mercedes-AMG CLA EV has been spotted testing on public roads in Germany.Based on what we know so far, the high-performance variant of the electric CLA will not be visually that much different from the regular trims. Expect a sportier front bumper and bigger brakes, although not carbon-ceramic like on the larger AMG models. Given the regenerative braking capabilities of the electric variant, perforated steel brakes will provide enough stopping power even at racetrack pace.The most in-your-face but also intriguing feature of the AMG variant is its huge ducktail spoiler. Mercedes-Benz is so secretive that the latest prototype we encountered still has it covered with a ridiculous amount of camo tape. Speculations abound that this is an active spoiler extending at higher speeds. Even though we haven't seen it yet, AMG will likely want to test it on a racetrack before starting production next year. And when it does, we'll ensure our cameras are ready.The electric CLA AMG will use an 800-volt architecture with a dual-motor architecture. There's no word about the power available, but the AMG version of the electric CLA will need at least 500 horsepower to compete with the soon-to-be-released Tesla Model 3 Performance. Tesla intends to make its electric sedan better suited for the racetrack, although many see it as a competitor to the upcoming electric C-Class rather than the CLA EV.
In what will become a world first, the Feadship-built superyacht Royal Romance will be sold off at auction, with proceeds going directly to Ukraine. The superyacht was seized in 2022 in Croatia and is, as of January 2024, property of Ukraine.



Photo: ARMA



Since then, Royal Romance has become official Ukrainian property, with a court in Croatia transferring ownership earlier this year after buoyancy and engine checks. Everything onboard Royal Romance is in working order, and with no other party claiming ownership, ARMA is free to do with it what it wants. And ARMA will be going ahead with plans to sell it to the highest bidder.



Last week, ARMA announced that an international competition would be held to determine a bidding organizer, with applications open between March 21 and April 18. The winner will be announced on April 23, after which that organizer will start putting together the details of the bidding. It goes without saying that Royal Romance is not yet ready to go to its next owner, whoever he or she might be, and that the process will be a long one.



For its part, ARMA is determined to do everything it can to prevent Medvedchuk from recovering his



Royal Romance was seized in 2022 in Croatia, where it had docked for minor repairs, as part of a joint operation between Ukraine's Asset Recovery and Management Agency (ARMA) and the FBI. In November last year, ARMA announced its intention of force-selling the superyacht and diverting the proceeds to Ukraine to assist in the war effort.Since then, Royal Romance has become official Ukrainian property, with a court in Croatia transferring ownership earlier this year after buoyancy and engine checks. Everything onboard Royal Romance is in working order, and with no other party claiming ownership, ARMA is free to do with it what it wants. And ARMA will be going ahead with plans to sell it to the highest bidder.Last week, ARMA announced that an international competition would be held to determine a bidding organizer, with applications open between March 21 and April 18. The winner will be announced on April 23, after which that organizer will start putting together the details of the bidding. It goes without saying that Royal Romance is not yet ready to go to its next owner, whoever he or she might be, and that the process will be a long one.For its part, ARMA is determined to do everything it can to prevent Medvedchuk from recovering his superyacht through a straw owner, preferably at half its value, hence the decision to find an international bidding organizer with experience and no ties with Putin. ARMA is also hoping to get at least $200 million for Royal Romance, which is very close to its 2015 estimation but would make sense if it's been well cared for all these years.

Before it got entangled in the international drama it played no active part in, Royal Romance was one of the most recognizable, luxurious, and secretive vessels of its category. It was delivered in 2015 as a fully custom commission for the "dark prince of Ukrainian" politics Viktor Medvedchuk, a known Putin ally who now lives exiled in Russia after a 2022 prison swap. Royal Romance is 92.5 meters (303.5 feet) long, has four decks, accommodation for as many as 14 guests and 22 crew, and top-of-the-line amenities that have never been revealed to the public.It was never offered for charter, which means that its owner was wealthy enough to pay for maintenance throughout the year without having to turn to chartering to cut down expenses. The closest estimation for a yacht's yearly maintenance is 10% of its value  and Royal Romance is believed to have cost 200 million or approximately $217 million at the current exchange rate. That's nearly $22 million in annual expenses, regardless of whether it's being taken out to sea or not.
Elon Musk surprised everyone on Monday after a leaked email to employees showed that Tesla will have to deliver new vehicles with FSD Beta V12.3.1 (or later) installed and active. On Tuesday, people who took delivery of a Model S or Model X reported that their cars arrived with FSD Beta V12.3.2.

Full Self-Driving

FSD

If you want immediate access to Full Self-Driving (Beta) V12.3.2, you simply need to take delivery of a Model S/X from today onward (NA only)!



We've received three DMs confirming that new @Tesla S/X vehicles include 2024.3.5 which enables FSD V12.3.2 and end-to-end Auto Park.  Teslascope (@teslascope) March 27, 2024

Tesla has been following a very precise testing routine for its software, especiallysoftware. New builds have been first tested by Tesla employees before reaching a wider insider group known as the Wave1. Only when these tests prove successful, and no nasty bugs are discovered will the new software builds be deployed to customer vehicles. Not all at once, but in waves, allowing Tesla to gather feedback while still making sure that potential bugs don't affect many people.However, the established order was overthrown when Elon Musk urged Tesla employees to install and activate FSD Beta V12.3.1 on all new vehicles before delivery. A leaked email shows Musk asking the Tesla team to ensure everyone taking delivery of a new Tesla and even those who take their cars from service are given antest ride with the latest version of the FSD Beta V12. One day later, Tesla reportedly shipped the Model S and Model X EVs with a software version that is not even cleared for wide release.People taking delivery of a new Model S and Model X reported that the cars shipped with 2024.3.5 software, including FSD Beta V12.3.2. It was the first time FSD Beta V12.3 had been offered on a 2024 software build. This cleared the way for the latest (cutting-edge) FSD builds to be installed on new vehicles rocking a 2024.x software build. Tesla also decided to deliver new EVs with software that is not a factory version.Tesla installs factory builds on new vehicles before delivery, usually with a version number ending in the hundreds. The latest factory build version is 2024.2.100 and cannot be updated to another 2024.2 build because of the lower version number. Tesla keeps new EVs on factory builds for a few weeks after delivery, supposedly to enable additional data gathering before allowing new updates to be installed.However, the Model S and Model X delivered on Tuesday to customers did not have factory builds but fully-fledged 2024.3.5 software. This build only began testing with Tesla employees the same day, breaking the established testing chain. This could present several challenges, as unsuspecting customers might get their vehicles with untested software. Remember, this software version hasn't even reached the Wave1 tester group and is now installed on customers' vehicles.We don't know whether this was a mistake made while trying to hastily satisfy Musk's demand or a change of the previous software testing practices. However, this certainly means that all current FSD Beta V11 testers will be moved very quickly to the V12.3.2 version. Although the update is offered exclusively in the US for now, it should reach Canada soon. Tesla has already cleared the hurdles and launched FSD Beta V12.3.1 north of the border.
As things stand today, the Artemis III Moon mission is scheduled to depart sometime in 2026. For all intents and purposes, it is perhaps the most important test of the program this decade, because it is very likely the future of space exploration efforts relies on its success.

Photo: NASA

Photo: NASA

Photo: NASA

Using the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion spacecraft, a crew of four still unnamed astronauts, including the first person of color and the first woman, will leave our planet on a 30-day journey that will take them to the satellite's South Pole region and then back home.Many of the details of the mission have already been ironed out, even if most of the tech that will support landing and surface operations is not nearly complete. But things are moving in the right direction, as this latest NASA announcement seems to prove.NASA chose the South Pole of the Moon as a landing site first and foremost because it is there where some of the ball's of rock oldest regions reside. It's also a place filled with shadowed regions where valuable resources could be found.The first piece of American equipment that is meant to support the Artemis mission is already on site there. On February 22, 2024, America's first private Moon lander, the Intuitive Machines Odysseus, touched down in the region, bringing with it to the surface several science instruments. Including what may very well be Luna's first-ever position beacon.Until the launch of the Artemis III mission, NASA will continue to send science stuff to the Moon on private and uncrewed missions as part of the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program. This year alone, for instance, at least three more missions are planned, including the launch of the VIPER rover.But not all science instruments can be delivered by means of uncrewed landers. If we are to truly understand what the Moon is all about and pave our way to Mars, more complex instruments are needed, and many of those can only be delivered and installed by humans.The Artemis III mission is scheduled to do exactly that, and this week NASA announced the first three science instruments that will make it up there in human hands. They are all meant to collect data to "sustain a long-duration human presence on the Moon," but more importantly, "prepare NASA to send astronauts to Mars."NASA says the tools we'll discuss a bit below are meant to help us better understand the Moon's processes, the origin of the volatiles present there, and get a better view of what danger means in such hostile environments. All three have been chosen to fly on Artemis III because humans are needed on-site for them to be installed and configured properly.The first science instrument is called the Lunar Environment Monitoring Station, or LEMS. It was put together by a team from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, led by Dr. Mehdi Benna.LEMS is, in essence, an autonomous seismometer suite designed to continuously monitor lunar ground movements caused by moonquakes. It will be operational for anywhere between three months and two years, and it will help people here on Earth "characterize the regional structure of the Moon's crust and mantle." This, in turn, will inform scientists on lunar formation and evolution models.If it works as intended, the LEMS may become the cornerstone of a future, more complex lunar geophysical network.The second of three science instruments chosen so far for Artemis III is LEAF. That's an acronym for Lunar Effects on Agricultural Flora and it is the work of Space Lab Technologies in Boulder, Colorado, and its lead scientist, Christine Escobar.As the name says, the tech is supposed to determine what kind of impact the lunar surface and the overall environment up there have on crops. Because, you know, no space colony would be functional without such things.LEAF is described by NASA as the first instrument designed to give us a better understanding of how plant photosynthesis, growth, and systemic stress responses work in low-g and when subjected to space radiation.The instrument will measure first and foremost plant growth and development data, but also environmental parameters. NASA hopes this would inform future colonists on how to grow their own food on the Moon (and ultimately Mars) for both food and life support.The final major Artemis III experiment is the Lunar Dielectric Analyzer (LDA). More technical in nature, the name hides behind it: a measurement tool for the propagation of an electric field in the regolith, which is the stuff that makes up the surface of the Moon.Electric field propagation is a key instrument for tools meant to find volatiles like ice. While doing its main work, LDA will also get intel on the subsurface monitor dielectric changes caused by the changing angle of the Sun as the Moon rotates, and look for possible frost formation or ice deposits.This instrument is the work of the University of Tokyo and the Japanese space agency, with researcher Dr. Hideaki Miyamoto taking point on this.Although these three science instruments are almost sure to go up to the Moon on the Artemis III Orion, NASA says "final manifesting decisions about the mission will be determined at a later date." That means after the three pieces of tech complete their development for the mission.
The World Car Awards has selected the Ioniq 5 N as its 2024 World Performance Car, marking the South Korean brand's seventh WCA title in the last three years. Twinned with the Kia EV6 GT, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is that little bit sportier both inside and out, as well as under the sheet metal.

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Photo: Hyundai

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2024 World Performance Car: Hyundai IONIQ5 N #WCOTY pic.twitter.com/BWW24jgxih  World Car Awards (@WorldCarAwards) March 27, 2024

The first electric vehicle to wear the N badge wasn't developed to race Model S Plaids at the strip but rather to put a smile on the driver's face in every imaginable driving scenario. The dual-motorwas developed in accordance with the N division's trademark pillars of Racetrack Capability, Everyday Sportscar, and Corner Rascal. Given the weight of the Ioniq 5 N, the latter may seem like a fallacy.Tipping the scales at 2,275 kilograms (5,015 pounds), the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N fights the laws of physics and provides driver enjoyment in many ways, beginning with the 21-inch forged aluminum wheels for less unsprung weight and the high-grip Pirelli P-Zero 275/35 by 21-inch rubber shoes. The largest automaker from South Korea further improved the breed with 42 additional welding points over the Ioniq 5, plus 2.1 additional meters (approximately 6.9 feet) of structural adhesives.Definitely worthy of being called a world-class performance car, the Ioniq 5 N also features reinforced electric drive unit and high-voltage battery mounts, enhanced front and rear subframes, a beefier steering column, larger brakes, and an enhanced battery thermal management system. Hyundai also worked its magic on the powertrain, with the front and rear drive units rated at 21,000 revolutions per minute in N Grin Boost mode."By combining our E-GMP platform with N's motorsport expertise, we have created a groundbreaking high-performance EV that has set a new benchmark in the industry, said N division head Till Wartenberg. "With Ioniq 5 N, we are not just redefining what a performance car is, but also shaping the future of electric driving fun."It should be highlighted that Ioniq 5 N isn't the first-ever performance electric vehicle. However, as opposed to the likes of the Tesla Model 3 Performance and soon-to-be-revealed Model 3 Ludicrous, the interior of the Ioniq 5 N is far more in line with the car's go-faster ethos. From the N-specific steering wheel and steering wheel controls to the heavily bolstered seats, checkered flag theme on the door scuff panels, knee pads, shin supports, and an extension to the lower part of the console for enhanced rigidity, the Ioniq 5 N truly means business.It also impresses on paper, with Hyundai quoting 601 horsepower as is or 641 horsepower when N Grin Boost is activate. NGB increases maximum power 10 seconds at a time, whereas N Launch Control sweetens the deal with three different traction levels. In perfect conditions, and with NGB and NLC active, the Ioniq 5 N launches to 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour) in 3.25 clicks.Priced $66,100 before destination charge in the United States, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has two more tricks up its sleeve: N Drift Optimizer and Torque Kick Drift. The former maintains the desired drift angle, whereas the latter is designed to simulate a clutch kick for initiating a drift.Topping at 162 miles per hour (260 kilometers per hour), the Ioniq 5 N can charge at up to 238 kilowatts when connected to a 350-fast charger. It takes around 20 minutes to juice up the 84-battery from 10 to 80 percent. The EPA has yet to publish the driving range estimate on a full charge. Over in Europe, therating for the combined test cycle is 448 kilometers (278 miles).
We have seen renderings for years. We have seen teasers for just as long. We do have a design, there is also a launch date that seems set in stone, and there is a base spec, which has a price. The Alpha Wolf sounds like a very competitive pickup, but there is a twist: it doesn't really exist!

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Photo: Alpha Motor Corporation

The Alpha Wolf is smaller than Ford's entry-level pickup, Maverick

Photo: Alpha Motor Corporation

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Hide and Seek with the switches on board the Alpha Wolf

Photo: Alpha Motor Corporation

'Who's the founder' saga

Photo: Alpha Motor Corporation

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Alpha Motor Corporation has been unveiling models for the past four years, but none of them has ever been sent to the market, and none of them has ever been built. We got to see the Alpha Ace Coupe, the electric two-door with retro styling. The California-based startup then proceeded with the unveiling of a crossover , a sedan, an, and a pickup, trying to extend into almost every single segment out there. However, this seems very far-fetched right now because CGI-ing an entire lineup won't get them anywhere.It is actually starting to look like Alpha is Hide and Seek with those waiting to actually see a real vehicle. Now, while still waiting for the first model to be launched on the market, which is actually the last one presented, we get the pricing info. Therefore, the entry-level rear-wheel drive Wolf pickup starts at $36,000 and goes all the way to $46,000.The base price is for the variant with a single motor, mounted on the rear axle and generating 101 horsepower (102 metric horsepower) and 118 pound-feet of torque. Wolf claims that the peak power is somewhere between 134 and 201 horsepower (135 and 204 metric horsepower), while the peak torque is rated at 258 pound-feet (350 Newton meters).Those should make the Wolf accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 kph) in 4.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 125 mph (200 kph). Those numbers should be for the all-wheel drive because back in July 2023, we got 6.2 seconds for the same run, which should be the numbers for the rear-wheel drive Wolf.The Alpha pickup should measure 190 inches (4,828 millimeters) in length, 75 inches (1,900 millimeters) in width, and 69 inches (1,765 millimeters) in height, with a bed under 6 feet (1,828 millimeters) long.All these figures make it smaller than Ford's Maverick, for instance. Alpha should roll out the Wolf as an extended-cabin version (Wolf+) and with a double cab (SuperWolf).The Wolf should tip the scales at 4,000 pounds (1,814 kilograms) and have a towing capacity of 3,000 pounds (1,361 kilograms), which is nothing to write home about.The company claims that the model can drive between 250 (402 kilometers) and 350 miles (563 kilometers) on a single charge, as energy is stored in a lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity variants between 45 and 100But those are just simple suppositions because Wolf has never actually built a customer-specced vehicle. So we are not getting any definite information. Alpha Motor claims that the pickup is capable of DC fast charging but does not mention any charging speed.Disc brakes on all four corners provide the stopping power. The pickup is equipped with a regenerative braking system and rides on an independent suspension setup at the front and leaf springs at the rear.Images from inside the cabin confirm the minimalist approach of the exterior. A touchscreen controls many of the functions of the vehicle, while the relevant driving information is displayed on the instrument cluster, integrating two large dials with chrome surrounds. A digital instrument cluster is optional.The renderings from inside the cabin are somewhat strange: one of the dashboard shows that there are no physical buttons, while a detailed image shows switches for the the climate control.We'll just give them credit and consider that the presence of buttons on board depends on the trim. We won't go as far as saying that they messed up with the CGIs.Wolf has only built a prototype so far. So, the startup is kind of trailing behind its own plans. However, the official reveal date is July 31 , when Alpha is set to show the Wolf at the Seoul Mobility Show.And they promised a production version, not the prototype that they have been showing for the past few months. The startup had set launch dates before and they never actually happened.Last summer, Alpha Motor's CEO and founder Edward Lee showed up in a video and announced that the production of the Wolf pickup would kick off before the end of 2023. But this is March 2024 already. And there is still no sign of a production version, not to mention mass production.It is difficult to count on the startup's credibility because, in the first episode of the "Who in the world is the Founder of the Company?" virtual saga, Alpha was reportedly founded by two former baristas , Joshua Boyt and Jay Lijewski. No sign of them right now, either.One more bizarre thing in this story is the fact that Alpha Wolf is the name of an Australian metalcore brand. So that is one of the first results you get when you google the model.Furthermore, last year, hoctcars.com discovered that the registered address of the company is the same as that of anotherstartup, Neuron. But Neuron simply disappeared.If the Alpha Wolf is ever going to be the Alpha pickup in the segment, we have yet to see. But by the way things look right now, they haven't even started this race.
Photo: YouTube/Garage 54

Photo: YouTube/Garage 54

Photo: YouTube/Garage 54

If we go into any tire shop and ask for a set of 167/58R13s, people there would look at us and politely but firmly invite us to see a medic. Also, if we asked for a solid-state tire made from crumb rubber, wed get a similar treatment. Still, just because no one has thought of it doesnt mean its forbidden for eternity. Enter Garage 54.Several weeks ago, inventive minds from the depths of Siberia covered a Lada 1200 with a thick layer of crumb rubber protection. The recipe is simple: mix the granulates with adhesive, spread it with a trowel, wait for it to cure, and reap the benefits. The body and paint are guarded against scratches, and the material is cheap, available, and easy to apply.But theres more than one use for the recycled tire particles. Yes, most of civilization uses it for playgrounds and stuff like that. In contrast, crumb rubber is very suitable for use thanks to its versatility, durability, ease of application, and several other reasons. How about returning to the roots and making car tires out of it?Crumb rubber is obtained from old end-of-life tires that get recycled and repurposed: the metal and fabric compounds are separated from the rubber, and the latter is frozen and milled to size. (Freezing hardens rubber to the point where it is no longer elastic and crumbles more easily). From there on, its a whole different story  the grainy remains of tires find other uses.At the dawn of the age of the motor wagon, wheels were shod with a band of solid rubber, which wasnt a very lucrative idea  the ride was on the stiff side, replacing a tire required a specialized shop, and so on. The pneumatic tire, patented in 1888 by John Dunlop, saved us all a lot of trouble and quickly gave rise to an industry that put the world on new wheels. (For historical accuracy, note that the first air tire was patented in 1845, but that invention didnt catch on).That has been the norm for over a century, but whats the use of a good rule if no one challenges it occasionally? Airless tires arent new, and there is still a market for them today  in specialized vehicles - forklifts, ultra-heavy-duty trailers, or severe-use heavy machinery , to name a few. 'Heavy' is the keyword here - one of the Garage 54 contraptions weighs three times as much as a regular wheel.The never-settling gang from Garage 54 thought it would be an idea to cast bespoke tires out of crumb rubber. The wheel used as the foundation for their project is a standard four-lug 13-inch steelie from a Lada 1200. To achieve the necessary roundness (somehow, the Siberians stuck to this idea that wheels work better in circular shapes), the make-shifters cut steel drum barrels, lined them with cling film on the inside, and used them as molds for the bespoke wheels.An air tire has an internal reinforcement structure (metal and fabric bands) onto which the rubber compound adheres. The Russians used rebar shackles for the same purpose, welding the metal fetters onto the wheels. Thats it. After pouring the rubber-glue mix, the tires sat to dry and harden for a while, and then they were fitted on a car.Lets recap: slick, solid tires on a rear-wheel-drive Lada test-driven on ice. What could go wrong? Nothing, actually  the recycled tire tires hold on pretty well and have enough grip for a snowdrift. Braking, on the other hand, is an adventure of a different kind because the smooth surfaces of the tire and the slippery snow dont rub shoulders too well (pun intended).Ice studs are one very efficient way vastly of improving grip  and thats precisely what the Russians did: drilled in steel hex washer head self-tapping screws. Job done; road stance enhanced by 107%. Still, well have to wait for the Siberian winter to bid farewell to Novosibirsk, so Garage 54 can test the reinvented wheel on the tarmac for proper conclusions.At this point, the low-friction index of snow, together with the sub-zero temperatures, dont make for an ideal test environment. It would be interesting to see  even just for curiositys sake, if nothing else  how the homemade tire will hold up to the roughness of a black-top road surface. Or even against gravel, since this puncture-proof invention would probably find the best uses for outdoors enthusiasts.
Dieselgate triggered the domino effect. Automakers have been phasing out diesels for the past eight years, and the roll is far from over. The time has come for Volvo to do the same. The carmaker manufactured its last diesel-powered car in early February and is getting ready to go all electric before the end of the decade.

Photo: Volvo Cars

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Developing new diesel engines is more expensive than phasing them out

The Volvo diesel engines over the years.

Photo: Volvo Cars

Volvo rolled out the first plug-in hybrid with a diesel engine in 2012

Photo: Volvo Cars

Volvo announced that it would phase out diesel engines in September 2023 during Climate Week NYC. The time has come to say goodbye to its most fuel-efficient powertrains after a 45-year relationship.The plant in Ghent, Belgium, rolled off the production line its final diesel-powered car, a Volvo V60, on a Thursday in early February. Just the other day, the plant in Torslanda, Sweden, produced its last XC90 SUV with a diesel engine. "We've built our last diesel car," Volvo says and almost seems to regret it. It does make sense.But it is one more step toward an all-electric lineup, a deadline that Volvo set for 2030. With less than six years to go, the Northern brand also targets net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.Versatile. Efficient. Reliable. Those are the labels that describe diesels in general. The diesel engine meant a great deal to Volvo over the years, making sales figures skyrocket in an era when Dieselgate was not even an issue. "Only five years ago, the diesel engine was our bread and butter in Europe," Volvo recalls.Furthermore, diesel-powered cars accounted for the majority of the sales numbers across the Old Continent in 2019. Back then, EVs were just starting to gain traction, slowly overcoming the-biased conception.However, in the past decade, the automotive world has been shifting to electrification in a global attempt to reduce worldwide pollution. Stricter emission regulations forced carmakers to reduce emissions level in their lineups.Developing new clean diesel engines would have been significantly more expensive than completely phasing them out despite the impressive sales figures that they were credited with.Things have changed along the way and right now, electric cars take up most of the Volvo sales. In 2023, the carmaker marked a 70 percent increase in fully electric cars, with a global market share increase of 34 percent.Volvo still sells plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid models as a transition to the future zero-emission portfolio.Volvo introduced its first-ever diesel car in 1979 in the shape of 244 GL D6. It was the world's first six-cylinder diesel engine for passenger cars. It was a blessing for taxi drivers and long-haul travelers.Proving its efficiency, versatility, and reliability, the diesel engine starts to gain momentum. So Volvo rolls out its first self-built diesel under the hood of the then-new V70. Its popularity soon skyrocketed.The powertrain plant in Skovde, Sweden, manufactured several versions of the unit. The S60 Challenge race car got the exact same diesel with racing-specific tuning.Furthermore, Volvo Penta decided to build a marine version of the power plant to take out at sea.The company launched the Drive-E lineup in 2008, which came with the 1.6-liter diesel engines. Back then, Volvo was saying that with the sun on your face and the wind at your back, you can go 1,300 kilometers on a single tank. That year, 95% of the XC90 sold were powered by diesel engines.Four years later, the Volvo V60 D6 plug-in hybrid arrived as the world's first plug-in hybrid integrating a diesel engine. The automaker called it the most technologically advanced model ever and described it as an electric, hybrid, and muscle car all at once.The V60 D6 plug-in hybrid could drive as far as 50 kilometers on electric power only, while having a total range of up to 1,000 kilometers. The ICE generated 215 horsepower, while the electric motor added 70 more for an acceleration from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 kph) in 6.2 seconds.Volvo launched another self-built diesel engine family in 2013, the Volvo Engine Architecture (VEA), which combined higher injection pressure and the innovative i-ART technology.It brought extra oomph, better fuel efficiency, and lower emissions. The XC90 was one of the models that received it and is still powered by it today. Was. The unit is also present in the V60 lineup.But the premium carmaker made a critical decision back in 2023. It sold its stake in Aurobay, the combustion engine joint venture company that Volvo used to own in partnership with Geely Holding. This means that there will be no more ICE development in the future.Volvo has recently launched the EX30 electric crossover, while the EX90 electric SUV is finally set to hit the market.
Colombian and US officials collaborated to reveal the seizure of almost 3.7 tons of cocaine from a speedboat in the Caribbean Sea on Sunday.

The operation was a joint effort between the Colombian Navy, the Colombian Air Force, and the United States Southern Command's Joint Interagency Task Force.

The Navy released footage showing military ships and planes chasing a "suspicious" speedboat near San Andres Isla for "several miles" on Sunday. They described the crew as executing several "evasive actions," including throwing packages into the water.

After being intercepted, the boat was then docked at the San Andres Coast Guard Station. Authorities seized a total of 3,355 kilograms, nearly 3.7 tons, of cocaine, valued at approximately $113 million.

It was disclosed that "more than eight million doses will not reach the streets of different countries, thus avoiding the impact on public health."

The boat was operated by a crew of five individuals, including three Colombians, one Honduran, and one Venezuelan.

Subsequently, the suspects, along with the boat and the confiscated cocaine, were handed over to Colombia's Attorney General's Office.

In a post on social media platform X, the US Joint Interagency Task Force South elaborated on the seizure, congratulating their counterparts on the achievement.

"When the Joint Operating Area is 42 million square miles, it helps to have great partnerships in the fight against illicit trafficking," the task force wrote. "Great job, team!"

With reporting by TMX

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The secretary of Armenias Security Council, Armen Grigorian, announced last week that Pashinian, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet in Brussels on April 5. He said they will discuss ways of stepping up trilateral cooperation and strengthening Armenias resilience.

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said that the planned talks are not transparent, involve only one regional state and undermine confidence-building measures in the South Caucasus.

Instead of pushing the Armenian side to peaceful negotiations, it creates new dividing lines in the region, read a ministry statement, adding that the United States and the EU would bear responsibility for Yerevans destabilizing actions.

In separate comments, the ministry spokesman, Aykhan Hajizade, said that Azerbaijan has never received such unconditional support from the EU and the U.S. throughout the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict. He claimed that Pashinian will discuss with Blinken and von der Leyen Western military assistance to Armenia.

The Brussels meeting has not yet been officially confirmed by the U.S. or the EU. The U.S. State Department spokesman, Matthew Miller, declined to comment on it during a news briefing in Washington on Tuesday.

Im not going to speak to it in detail other than to say that our objectives in every engagement with the governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan are to encourage them to work to bridge the differences  and reach a durable and lasting peace agreement, Miller said.

The Western powers warned Azerbaijan against invading Armenia following its recapture of Nagorno-Karabakh last September. They now also seem anxious to show support for Pashinians government amid its deepening rift with Russia, Armenias longtime ally.

In recent weeks, Pashinian has threatened to pull Armenia out of the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization and not ruled out a bid to join the EU. Russian officials have accused the West of encouraging Yerevan to drift away from Moscow.
Theyre saying now, What about the border with Turkey, who is going to protect it and so on? he told reporters. I very much doubt that if Turkey decides to invade Armenia the Russian border guards will be able or willing to protect it.

Simonian, who is a key member of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinians political team, already said in late February that he is not sure they will defend the borders of our country in case of a foreign aggression. In a clear reference to not only the border guards but also Russian troops stationed in Armenia, he claimed that they did everything to make those borders much more vulnerable.

The border guards have for decades been stationed along Armenias borders with Turkey and Iran as well as at Yerevans Zvartnots international airport. During and after the 2020 war in Nagorno-Karabakh, they were also deployed, along with Russian army units, to some sections of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border.

On March 12, Pashinian announced that his government has given Moscow until August 1 to withdraw the border guards from Zvartnots. Armenia, he said, has the capacity to carry out border controls at the airport without the help of the Russian side.

The Russian Foreign Ministry criticized the move, saying that Yerevan risks inflicting irreparable damage on Russian-Armenian relations and jeopardizing Armenias security and economic development. Earlier in March, a senior Russian lawmaker said he would not recommend that the Armenian authorities even think about demanding the withdrawal of all Russian border guards and military forces.

Pashinian has signaled no such plans so far. Still, he has frozen his countrys membership in the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization and not ruled out a bid to join the European Union.

Simonian indicated on Wednesday that Yerevan is in no rush to officially apply for EU membership.

We need to do many things in Armenia so that we dont wait [for EU membership] for years, as our neighbors do, said the speaker. Many standards would have to be changed in Armenia.

Simonian was the first Armenian official to publicly float the idea of seeking EU membership on February 29. He claimed that Armenia has much better democracy indicators than some EU member states.
There was an offer by the CSTO to the Armenian side to join the statement. We refused because Armenia has frozen its membership in the CSTO, a spokeswoman for parliament speaker Alen Simonian told RFE/RLs Armenian Service on Wednesday.

The official, Nelly Ghulian, noted that Simonian condemned the attack in a social media post and offered condolences to his Russian counterparts in connection with at least 143 deaths caused by it. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian did so in a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Last year, Pashinians government not only shunned various-level CSTO meetings but also cancelled a CSTO exercise in Armenia, refused to name an Armenian deputy head of the organization and recalled the Armenian representative to its Moscow headquarters.

Pashinian said last month that this amounts to the freezing of Armenias membership in the alliance accused by Yerevan of not honoring its commitments to the South Caucasus country. He afterwards did not rule out the possibility of leaving the CSTO altogether.
27 March 2024 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Shahin Read more

Against the background of the expansion of relations between Azerbaijan and China, it is observed that many serious steps have been taken recently. The fact that Azerbaijan forms the main segment of the Great Silk Road between the East and the West and the growing interest of Europe in the Chinese economy in this regard stimulates the development of both political and economic relations between the two countries.

It is no coincidence that this year, Azerbaijan is hosting the COP29 international conference on climate change, which is the main goal of the world. From this point of view, the cooperation of a state with wide opportunities like China with Azerbaijan in this sphere is very important.

Hikmet Hajiyev, Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, expressed Azerbaijan's eagerness to engage in discussions with China regarding COP29 issues in an interview with Global Times.

The relationship between Azerbaijan and China is characterized by mutual respect, cooperation, and growing economic ties. Both countries continue to explore opportunities for collaboration across various sectors, contributing to regional stability and development.

Commenting on the views of Hikmat Hajiyev, as well as touching on Azerbaijan-China relations, Dr. Frank Musmar, an Executive Advisory Board President for the University of Maryland Global Campus, an Advisory member at the Abrahamic Accord Business Circle, a Board Member at Paris Metropolitan University answered several questions in an interview with AZERNEWS.

Q: Mr. Frank Musmar, why does Hikmet Hajiyev emphasize the importance of initial consultations and discussions with China regarding COP29 negotiations?

A: Relations and partnerships with China have been a top priority for Azerbaijan. President Ilham Aliyev set new priorities for developing the country, which will focus on further digital transformation, renewable energies, economic and social development, and strengthening ties with friendly countries and partners such as China. Azerbaijan perceives China as a source of knowledge, expertise, and technological advancement.

It is worth mentioning that the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29) will convene in November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Accordingly, Hosting COP29 in Azerbaijan and receiving support from the international community demonstrates the respect and confidence that the international community has for Azerbaijan. The importance of initial consultations and discussions with China regarding COP29 appears from the People's Republic of China's position as one of the leading countries in the world. Therefore, having initial consultations and discussions to understand China's position in the negotiation process is crucial for Azerbaijan.

Q: How does Azerbaijan intend to collaborate with China within the framework of COP29, particularly concerning the voice of the Global South?

A: As one of Chinas leading trade partners in the South Caucasus, Azerbaijan attaches particular importance to developing relations with China in all spheres. Azerbaijan is willing to collaborate with China within the framework of COP29 to emphasize the importance of the south corridor. One of the most remarkable examples of this successful cooperation could be observed in the field of economy and trade, which is fundamentally a result of the partnership created by the BRI Initiative. Azerbaijan was among the first countries to support this important global initiative, and our government has significantly contributed to its realization. In this context, projects like the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, initiated by Azerbaijan, and the commissioning of the Baku International Sea Trade Port in Alat, eventually resulted in the formation of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.

Q: Can you elaborate on Azerbaijan's expectations regarding its role as the host of COP29 and its relationship with international partners, including China?

A: The Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Azerbaijan is a highly significant event, with outcomes that hold relevance for Azerbaijan and the world. It will be a mark in history to comment on the new climate plans from Baku and determine whether the world can get back on a global emissions trajectory in line with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5C this century, as required by science under the Paris Agreement. China is leading the world in renewables. Wind and solar energy are expected to overtake coal in the country's electricity production capacity for the first time in 2024, making up 40% of total installed capacity. Accordingly, the relationship with China is significant to learn from their experiences in green Energy.

Q: How do you evaluate China and Azerbaijan's economic and political relations?

A: China recognized Azerbaijans independence in December 1991 and established official diplomatic channels with Azerbaijan shortly after in April 1992. President Ilham Aliyev has visited China five times since his tenure as president began in 2003. Azerbaijans energetic foreign policy, for example, its term on the UN Security Council and its current role as head of the Non-Aligned Movement, as well as its efforts to build international understanding and support for its position in the conflict with Armenia over Karabakh, are likely factors in Bakus engagement with Beijing. The geographic realities make Azerbaijan and China integral to each others overland transit ambitions. From January to November 2018, the trade volume between China and Azerbaijan was 1.165 billion US dollars. In 2015, the two countries signed the Memorandum of Understanding of the Silk Road Economic Belt between China and Azerbaijan, which has provided opportunities for cooperative development.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
27 March 2024 16:11 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The officials of France think that they are fishing in troubled waters, but actually, they are playing with fire. It is crystal clear that Paris aims to replete the gaps that emerged following the terrible and humiliating defeat in Africa, with the South Caucasus.

Thus, French President Macron did not sign the decision adopted by the French Parliament to recognise the so-called "artsakh republic" and even in a conversation with an Armenian woman, he underscored that France could not do anything because Garabagh is Azerbaijani territory. Even the Foreign Ministry of France denounced the decision of the French Parliament. However, after the war in Ukraine, all French politicians changed their attitude towards the issue. Suddenly, all of them started to speak about the rights of Armenians. France started arming Armenia.

The last ridiculous deed came from the French Ambassador to Armenia, Olivier Decottignies. The Ambassador shared a post about the Armenian residents of Garabagh and slandered Azerbaijan.

He unfoundedly claims that ostensibly Armenian residents of Garabagh lived under the siege for nine months and then supposedly "Azerbaijan brutally assaulted." It seems that the ambassador lost his memory. It is better to recall that the Azerbaijani state never blockaded anywhere. The members of the NGOs held a meeting on the Lachin-Khankendi road, and the road was open for civil transportation. Even the Azerbaijani Red Crescent Society and the Russian Red Cross Society send humanitarian aid to Armenian residents.

It was the heads of the separatist clique who refused the aid, not the Azerbaijani government. Besides, Armenian civilians, bloggers, and journalists wrote on social networks and media outlets that the separatist clique developed a black market by pretexting the so-called blockade and made good money by selling products in the black markets.

As for 'Azerbaijan's brutal attack', I do not know what he talks about. Azerbaijan has never attacked Armenia or Armenian residents in Garabagh. However, I know barbaric missile attacks from Armenia to the Azerbaijani territories, more precisely, Ganja city, Tartar, and Barda. In addition, the world is aware of French vandalism in Algeria, the Far East, and Africa.

Let the French Ambassador not forget that in museums in Paris, the skulls of people whom French soldiers beheaded are showcased even today. Despite all requests, the French government refuses to hand them back and proudly says they are trophies.

The ambassador's claims about ostensibly forcing Armenian residents to leave Garabagh are as slanderous as previous ones. Azerbaijan has always said that Armenian residents of Garabagh are its citizens. All Armenians who want to get an Azerbaijani passport can stay and live in Garabagh. So, the people who agreed to take Azerbaijani passports are in Garabagh today, and the others left. Thus, nobody forced them to leave. Besides, the Ambassador has never talked about the rights of Azerbaijanis and Kurds, who were forced to leave their hometowns in the 1990s, to return to their hometowns. It reveals once again the hypocritical character of the ambassador and French politicians.

Anyway, it seems we will encounter such double standards further. As mentioned earlier, despite having good relations with Armenia, Paris always tried at least to be neutral prior to the Ukrainian War. As the war started, Paris thought that Russia was engaged in the war in Ukraine and could push Russia out of Armenia. Besides, with the help of Armenia, they could gain power in the South Caucasus.

However, they are unaware that more devastating defeats and humiliations are waiting for them in the South Caucasus. Russia made the same mistake 30 years ago. Moscow thought that by helping Armenia, they would be able to stay in the South Caucasus. After 30 years, Russias influence in the region is the least. Armenia does its best to kick Russia out of its territory. The same fate awaits France. We hope Paris will take a lesson from Russia and double check its South Caucasus policy before taking further steps.

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Qabil Ashirov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @g_Ashirov

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27 March 2024 17:19 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Shahin Read more

Armenia and Azerbaijan have taken a significant step towards resolving their long-standing conflict by agreeing upon the principles of a peace agreement. This development marks a crucial milestone in the efforts to bring stability to the South Caucasus region, which has been marred by decades of conflict and tension. The agreement, reached during a quadrilateral meeting in Prague on October 6, 2022, signals a willingness from both sides to engage in constructive dialogue and pursue peaceful solutions.

The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Garabagh region has been one of the most protracted and contentious disputes in the post-Soviet era. The region, located within Azerbaijan's internationally recognised borders, has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces since the early 1990s, leading to a prolonged stalemate and occasional outbreaks of violence.

However, recent years have seen renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at finding a lasting resolution to the conflict. The 2020 Garabagh war, which resulted in significant territorial gains for Azerbaijan, provided an impetus for both parties to reengage in negotiations under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs.

The announcement of the agreed-upon principles of the peace agreement by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signifies a significant breakthrough in the peace process. The involvement of international mediators, including France, adds credibility to the negotiations and underscores the importance of multilateral diplomacy in resolving complex conflicts.

During the meeting with Ann-Lorens Petel, head of the France-Armenia Friendship Group, Prime Minister Pashinyan emphasised the importance of dialogue and compromise in reaching a sustainable peace agreement. The willingness of both Armenia and Azerbaijan to engage in constructive discussions bodes well for the prospects of lasting peace in the region.

One of the key issues discussed during the meeting was the opening of regional communications in the South Caucasus. The establishment of transport and communication links has long been seen as a potential confidence-building measure between Armenia and Azerbaijan, facilitating economic cooperation and people-to-people contacts. By addressing this issue within the framework of the peace agreement, both parties demonstrate their commitment to addressing the underlying grievances and building trust for the future.

The agreement on the principles of the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan represents a significant step forward in the quest for peace and stability in the South Caucasus. While challenges remain and the road to a comprehensive settlement may be long and arduous, the willingness of both parties to engage in dialogue and compromise offers hope for a better future. It is imperative for the international community to support and facilitate the peace process, ensuring that the gains made thus far are consolidated and built upon for the benefit of all stakeholders in the region.

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27 March 2024 14:07 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Shahin Read more

In recent days, prices in underground and above-ground parking areas in the central parts of the capital, Baku, have increased up to 2.6 times. This has led to sharp dissatisfaction on social networks, Azernews reports.

According to the new monthly tariffs at underground parking facilities under the balance of the Azerbaijan Land Transport Agency (ALTA), prices range from 1 manat 66 qepik to 4 manat 66 qepik for one day. The highest monthly rate is 20 qepik per hour.

Among those expressing their opinions is Rufat Guliyev, a member of the Economic Policy, Industry, and Entrepreneurship Committee of the Milli Majlis (National Assembly of the Azerbaijan Republic).

He stated that the increase in parking fees for cars should be positively welcomed. Deputy Rufat Quliyev considers the sharp increase in parking fees for cars in Baku as an adequate decision.

He mentioned that in all countries, prices in city centres, including parking fees, food services, rents, and generally everything else, are two to three times higher compared to other areas.

"In the centre of Baku, everything is two to three times more expensive compared to other areas. Even within a few kilometres from the centre, prices are relatively lower. It is not surprising that parking fees are also adjusted accordingly. Currently, the master plan for Baku is being prepared. Over AZN 80 billion will be allocated for this process by 2040. As part of this process, all parking issues will also be completely resolved."

R. Quliyev emphasised the importance of such a decision by addressing the problems related to congestion in the centre of the capital.

"Therefore, the implementation of such a decision should be positively welcomed. This could also be beneficial for the development of public transportation. Residents should come to the city centre by metro or bus. Alternatively, everyone can park their cars in suitable parking lots outside the centre and walk. I think it should be like this."

Shortly after, the Azerbaijan Land Transport Agency also expressed its position on the issue.

It was stated that the Government House, Winter Park, and Central Park do not cover the expenses from the income generated from parking activities in underground parking areas.

"The existing facilities in parking areas (lifts, escalators, payment terminals, fire protection systems, etc.) are in poor condition, requiring substantial funding for repair and renovation. Changing the existing tariffs is considered appropriate to reduce damage and improve the level of service provided to the population," ALTA said in its release.

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27 March 2024 16:52 (UTC+04:00)

Fatime Letifova Read more

Mutual relations in the field of insurance will be established between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan for the first time, Azernews reports, citing the Executive Director of the Azerbaijan Insurers' Association (ASA), Elmar Mirsalayev, as he said at the meeting with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Gurbanmammet Elyasov.

At the meeting, mutual relations between the states of Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan in various fields were touched upon.

E. Mirsalayev informed the ambassador about the work done in the field of insurance, the achievements, and the international relations of the sector. The executive director also spoke about the Turkish World Insurance Union, which was established by the initiative of ASA and the membership of the insurance associations of 5 Turkish republics and which will soon come under the auspices of the Organisation of Turkic States.

Touching on the importance of insurance services, G. Elyasov highly appreciated the work done in this direction, including the activities of the Turkish World Insurance Association.

At the meeting, an agreement was reached on establishing relations between ASA and the insurance sector of Turkmenistan.

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27 March 2024 15:41 (UTC+04:00)

Fatime Letifova Read more

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Control State Service under the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan and the Hungarian Competition Authority, Azernews reports.

A bilateral meeting was held with the Hungarian Competition Authority as part of the visit of the Azerbaijani agency's delegation to Hungary. During the meeting, opportunities for mutual cooperation and the exchange of experiences between the institutions were discussed.

The importance of strengthening bilateral relations in the study of best practices in the field of competition development was emphasised.

Also, the directions of activity of the State Service, the Competition Code, which will come into force on July 1 of this year, and the regulation policy and control tools of the competition body according to the Code were discussed.

In the end, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the parties. The document was signed by the head of the State Service, Mammad Abbasbeyli, and the head of the Hungarian Competition Authority, Ksaba Balash Rigo.

According to the memorandum, the parties will exchange experience in the direction of promotion of competition, development of strategies, development of legislation and competition policy in the relevant field, as well as analysis of violations of law.

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27 March 2024 12:21 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Shahin Read more

An event dedicated to the Novruz holiday was held at the University of Cambridge, Azernews reports.

A comprehensive event dedicated to the Novruz holiday was held with the participation of diplomats from Azerbaijan and Central Asian countries, the professorial staff of the university, students specialising in the region, and representatives of international organizations at the University of Cambridge, one of the leading universities in the world, operating near the Holy Jesus College under the Central Asia Forum.

Ambassadors from Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan to the United Kingdom, as well as an advisor from the Embassy of Kazakhstan, attended the event. The Embassy of Azerbaijan was represented by Counselor Rashad Vahabzade.

Initially, a roundtable was held to discuss positive changes in the region with the participation of diplomats and scholars. Representatives of the respective countries made presentations providing detailed information about their countries. The representative of Azerbaijan spoke about the peace agenda formulated by President Ilham Aliyev in the region and emphasised the cooperation with Turkic-speaking states, highlighting the priority of this cooperation, the organisation of COP-29 in Azerbaijan, the role of the country in European energy security, relations between Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom, the contribution of the country to the development of connectivity in the region, the transition to green energy, and other issues.

Following the speeches and presentations, a wide-ranging exchange of ideas took place with the participation of the professorial staff and students of the University of Cambridge, and numerous questions from the audience were answered.

Afterwards, a grand concert was held with the participation of artists from the region. At the concert, talented dancer Sakina Mukhtarova presented Azerbaijani national dances.

It is worth noting that the renowned musician Babek Atash performed "Garabagh Wound" in his distinctive style, followed by musicians representing the brotherly Uzbekistan, Khurshidbek and Dostonjon, who performed the famous "Sar Gelin" together. The event concluded with the concert program.

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Experts discuss development experience of China, Bangladesh, calling for strengthening cooperation

Xinhua) 11:19, March 27, 2024

DHAKA, March 26 (Xinhua) -- A seminar with theme of "Development and Governance Experience in China and Bangladesh" was held here Monday to discuss sustainable development, social governance, communication and mutual learning among civilizations.

The seminar, held by the Center for China Studies (CCS) of Dhaka University, attracted over 20 experts and scholars from various field at home and aboard to participate.

Chen Dongxiao, president of Shanghai institutes for international studies, said that for developing countries, economic and social development is always the top priority. China has put forward the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative. The Belt and Road Initiative is a concrete practice and preliminary exploration of the implementation of the three initiatives.

Chen said that China and Bangladesh have fruitful achievements under the Belt and Road Initiative, which is a concrete manifestation of the exchange of experience in development and national governance between the two countries.

"In the future, it is believed that the two countries will surely make greater achievements in development," Chen added.

Stefan Liller, resident representative in Bangladesh of the United Nations Development Program, said that in this interconnected area where digital technologies bridge vast distances and environmental changes know no borders, the urgency for collaboration has never been greater.

"In this light, this initiative by China and Bangladesh to establish the Center for China Studies of Dhaka University, emphasizing development, cooperation and cultural exchanges, marks a very positive development," Liller said, adding "we must address escalating challenges by strengthening international cooperation and establishing partnership for knowledge exchange and sustainable cooperation."

Noting that Bangladesh is not only an important partner of China but one of the first countries in South Asia to join the Belt and Road Initiative, Farid Uddin Ahmed, vice chancellor of Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, said that China and Bangladesh are seeing an increasing convergence of interests and have become a community of shared future.

Susan Vize, head of office and country representative to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, believed that partnerships like CCS are part of the process of finding solutions to global challenges.

"Because this is a space for exchange and intercultural dialogue, and this bringing together of different cultures, different societies, and different systems that enable us to develop risk responses that the whole world can get behind and to develop," Vize said.

"It is my deep expectation that the CCS will contribute to the cooperation between China, Bangladesh and international organizations through jointly participation in global governance and the solution of global poverty and hunger," said Shi Jiaoqun, country representative for Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in Bangladesh.

In his speech, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen shared the prospects and expectations for exchanges and cooperation between think tanks and scholars from both countries.

"It is hoped that in the future, the center could strengthen the research on Chinese modernization, increase exchanges and dialogues between Chinese and Bangladeshi scholars, thereby offering practical suggestions for synergizing development strategies between Bangladesh and China, nurturing a conducive public discourse for the advancement of China-Bangladesh relations," said the ambassador.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
(Photo : hoto by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)

The collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge lies on top of the container ship Dali in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 27, 2024.

The Coast Guard is releasing information about what the cargo ship that hit the Key Bridge in Baltimore was carrying at the time of the accident.

Vice Admiral Peter Gautier says the ship was carrying 4,700 cargo containers. He gave the information during a White House press briefing on Wednesday afternoon.

He says 13 containers were damaged when the bridge fell onto the deck of the Dali and two containers fell overboard during the accident.

Gautier said there are 56 containers onboard that contain hazardous materials. None of those containers were among the ones that were damaged or went overboard.

Video obtained by HNGN and taken right after the wreck shows massive damage to the Dali's hull from the impact with the bridge.

Video exclusively obtained by HNGN shows the first up close look at the crash of the Dali freight ship into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge as responders use flashlights to survey the wreckage. pic.twitter.com/fdBx0BDbkx  HNGN (@HNGNcom) March 26, 2024

Gautier says the air is being monitored for any toxic releases but he says there currently is no danger to the public from the incident.

The bow of the ship is sitting on the bottom of the river due to the weight of the debris that fell on the ship on Tuesday morning.

There are about 1.5 million gallons of fuel on the ship. Divers were still inspecting the hull on Wednesday afternoon but there are no signs of any leaks so far.

Army Corps of Engineers will be brought in to remove the parts of the bridge that are on top of the vessel so it can be moved.

Gautier says the crew remains on the ship and has been cooperative with the investigation.

The Port of Baltimore will remain closed until after the recovery operation is finished.

"The effect will not be trivial," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said at the briefing adding that there is no timeline for reopening the port.

Crews are still trying to try to recover the bodies of construction workers who died in the bridge collapse.

Among the six workers who are missing are men originally from Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala.

The NTSB is leading the investigation into the cause of the accident. It has recovered and it analyzing the so-called "black boxes" from the ship to create a timeline of the minutes before the fatal crash.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
27 March 2024 10:17 (UTC+04:00)

As it is well-known, the Azerbaijani side on numerous occasions has clearly expressed its position on certain approaches and actions towards our region by the European Union, and some of its member states in particular, Azernews reports, referring to the statement of the Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs on a joint EU-Armenia-US conference scheduled for April 5, 2024, in Brussels.

The statement reads:

"The fact is that the ongoing peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia was initiated by the Azerbaijani side, where it has always demonstrated a constructive stance on all issues of the post-conflict normalization. Moreover, during the Prague quadrilateral meeting of 6 October 2022, the Azerbaijani side was asked to give its consent on the deployment of a short-term EU Monitoring Capacity (EUMCAP) comprising 40 EU civilian monitoring experts along the Armenian side of the undelimited border, which was supposed to contribute to confidence-building between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Unfortunately, after original two months term, without Azerbaijans agreement, the EUMCAP was transformed into the EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA), with significant term extension and much larger number of monitors. The Mission has since been actively exploited as an anti-Azerbaijani propaganda tool. Additionally, with Canada joining the EUMA, it resembles a de facto NATO mission. This has also been accompanied by the statements calling the EUMA a deterrence force, and creating an illusion of a possible intervention by Azerbaijan, which has no ground whatsoever.

Thus, the EU was urged to take all necessary measures with a view to ensuring that the EUMA acts strictly as a neutral, civilian and unarmed mission, in line with its declared mandate, and refrains from any activity targeting Azerbaijans sovereignty and territorial integrity, or affects its legitimate security interests in any other manner.

Another matter for concern is a France-led campaign aimed at militarizing Armenia, which also includes new pledges of larger military supplies (including lethal and offensive types of weapons). Another EU member state, Greece, has recently made statements on deepening of military cooperation with Armenia. Additionally, plans of provision of a military assistance to Armenia under the European Peace Facility and reports that the April 5th meeting envisages military components cause further concerns and undermine peace-building efforts in the region.

Interestingly, being a victim of an armed aggression, occupation and ethnic cleansing for almost 30 years, and even with four UN Security Council resolutions demanding immediate, complete and unconditional withdrawal of the Armenian occupying forces, Azerbaijan has never received this kind of unconditional support from the EU and US."

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26 March 2024 23:31 (UTC+04:00)

The English-language daily Chinese newspaper Global Times has published an article headlined "Gold standard friendship" featuring an interview with Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Head of Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev, Azernews reports.

Assistant to the Azerbaijani President Hikmet Hajiyev responded to the questions of Global Times reporter Xie Wenting on President Ilham Aliyev's role in development of relations with China during his new term, the role of China in Azerbaijan's overall foreign policy, Azerbaijan's chairmanship of COP29, as well as potential for cooperation between China and Azerbaijan on climate change initiatives.

"The development of relations with China has been a top priority for Azerbaijan, as we see China as a good friend and partner. There is also a historical relationship between our countries. Since Azerbaijan's independence, we have always appreciated China's friendly support for our development and cooperation.

President Ilham Aliyev has set new priorities and an agenda for the development of the country, which is not only comprehensive but also ensures the full territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan.

Therefore, we are looking forward to enhancing our strategic cooperation and partnership with China. It is the Azerbaijani President's vision to raise our level of cooperation with China to that of a strategic partnership, taking our relationship to a new level. Our political relations are excellent, and in areas such as economic trade, transport, and energy, we are in close cooperation. Azerbaijan always supports the one-China policy," Hikmet Hajiyev said.

"However, we believe there is much more potential for business collaboration. China is not only seen as a friendly country, but also as a source of knowledge, expertise, and technological advancement. Given these factors, President Ilham Aliyev has designated cooperation with China as one of our priorities.

Now, we see steady growth in the trade relationship between the two countries, but it is not the ultimate end. There are more prospects for that. Chinese companies are already present in diversifying Azerbaijan's economy, but we are expecting more as Azerbaijan moves toward green growth.

Digital transformation is the number one priority for Azerbaijan in our national priorities, based on our sustainable development goals. In our green transition agenda, we see China as a partner for us," Hajiyev mentioned.

"Most importantly, we see the Chinese-Azerbaijan partnership as significant within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly in the context of the Middle Corridor. The Middle Corridor could become an important linkage between China and the European Union. Azerbaijan, along with Central Asian countries, situated along the Caspian and Black Sea, can be strong partners in connectivity linkages. This aligns well with the BRI and underscores the strategic partnership between China and Azerbaijan," Hikmet Hajiyev noted.

"Hosting COP29 in Azerbaijan and receiving support from the international community once again demonstrates the respect and confidence that the international community has for Azerbaijan. Assuming the chairmanship and effectively hosting COP29 is a significant achievement and a particular deliverable for Azerbaijan. It presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the country.

As a fossil fuel exporting country, Azerbaijan has shown a strong willingness and determination to pursue the current transition project and agenda at the local, regional, and global levels. Climate change is a major challenge for everyone, and it is essential for the global community to unite their efforts. Azerbaijan aims to achieve more solidarity and consensus at a global level on all fundamental aspects of the COP negotiation process," the Assistant to Azerbaijani President underlined.

Noting that Azerbaijan also seeks to build understanding and solidarity between the "Global North" and "Global South," Hikmet Hajiyev said: "Azerbaijan is open to dialogue and engagement with all parties on the fundamental issues of the COP29. The People's Republic of China is one of the leading countries in the world. Therefore, having initial consultations and discussions to understand China's position in the negotiation process is crucially important for us."

Responding to the reporter's question on why "Some foreign media outlets like to hype up the so-called "security threat" posed by Chinese investment and Chinese companies," Hikmet Hajiyev stated:" This is unfair treatment of China. Chinese technologies, such as Huawei, are some of the best in the world. For many years, I have been using Huawei products and their technology is also helping a digital transformation in my country.

Some other countries engage in unnecessary propaganda, particularly in relation to security and other issues, which hinders genuine competition and economic development. It is important for economic development to be based on fair competition. Unfortunately, certain companies in certain countries chose to spread propaganda against Chinese companies instead of promoting open trade and fair competition. This is not in line with our agenda. We value our partnership with Chinese companies and the People's Republic of China, and appreciate their openness and cooperation. Working together with Chinese partners contributes to technological development in our country."

"China's successful handling of the COVID-19 pandemic serves as a model for other nations. We, from Azerbaijan, are grateful for China's support and cooperation. When some Western countries engaged in vaccine nationalism, stockpiling more vaccines than needed, Azerbaijan faced challenges in accessing vaccines. In response, the Azerbaijani President reached out to the President of the People's Republic of China for assistance. Despite facing their own challenges with COVID-19, China generously shared vaccines with Azerbaijan, contributing to the health and well-being of our people. This act of solidarity exemplifies the partnership and openness that exists between our two nations," Hikmet Hajiyev emphasized.

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27 March 2024 10:00 (UTC+04:00)

A caravan consisting of 134 IDPs that departed from the Gobupark-3 residential complex has arrived in Fuzuli.

According to Azernews, the residents, upon their arrival, were welcomed in their hometown.

It should be noted that 631 families, i.e., 2,379 people, have been permanently settled in the city of Fuzuli so far.

12:15

According to the order of the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, the next migration caravan was sent to the city of Fuzuli.

The next migration caravan, consisting of families temporarily settled in hostels, sanatoriums, pioneer camps, unfinished and administrative buildings in different areas of the republic, left on March 27 from Garadagh district of Baku city.

At this stage, another 35 families - 134 people - moved to Fuzuli city.

The IDPs will settle in the houses where they once lived in Fuzuli, which were restored or rebuilt on the basis of instructions from the head of state after the end of the Armenian occupation.

Fuzuli residents thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care and expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

Until today, a permanent settlement in the city of Fuzuli has been provided for 631 families - 2,379 people.

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27 March 2024 12:01 (UTC+04:00)

Daniel Noboa Azin, Constitutional President of the Republic of Ecuador has sent a congratulatory letter to Ilham Aliyev on his re-election as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

According to Azernews, the letter reads as follows:

"His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Mr. President.

It gives me great pleasure to congratulate you on your victory in the election held in the Republic of Azerbaijan in February this year.

I express my desire to further foster friendship and cooperation between our peoples.

I hope that your leadership will continue to bring prosperity to all the people of Azerbaijan.

Respectfully,

Daniel Noboa Azin

Constitutional President of the Republic of Ecuador"

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27 March 2024 17:13 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Shahin Read more

Azerbaijan has extradited two people sought internationally to Uzbekistan, Azernews reports, citing the Prosecutor General's Office.

It is reported that the extradition of citizens of Uzbekistan, born in 1985, Siyavush Khalimovich Hasanov, and born in 1990, Sarvar Kamolitdinovich Abdurakhimov, to face criminal responsibility was ensured by the Prosecutor General's Office of that state, in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Siyavush Hasanov and Sarvar Abdurakhimov, accused of committing embezzlement according to the legislation of the Republic of Uzbekistan and subject to international search, were detained on March 6 of the current year at the Heydar Aliyev International Airport and taken into custody pending extradition proceedings.

They were handed over to the competent authorities of Uzbekistan under the supervision of the Special Convoy of the Penitentiary Service of the Ministry of Justice.

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27 March 2024 17:35 (UTC+04:00)

Fatime Letifova Read more

The delegation led by the Chairman of the Chamber of Accounts, Vugar Gulmammadov, participated in the international event on "Involvement of Supreme Audit Institutions in the Assessment of National Climate Action", jointly organised by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) and the Brazilian Court of Accounts in New York, USA.

Azernews reports, citing the organisation, that the work done by the International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) in relation to climate change, the "Climate Scanner" project and its framework were reported. Also, discussions, speeches, and presentations were held on the evaluation of activities in the direction of reducing the effects of climate change and emerging obligations and challenges.

Speaking at the event, the representative of the Chamber of Accounts first said that the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) will be held in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.

In the speech, the control measures conducted by the Accounting Chamber for the assessment of the efficiency and effectiveness of the government's activities related to the national climate and environment were mentioned. Also, a number of difficulties in activities related to the national climate and environment were discussed. It was emphasised that Azerbaijan is among the countries most polluted by landmines in the world, and large resources are required for the restoration and operation of the territories freed from occupation, forests, and the entire ecosystem in those territories.

At the same time, the difficulties encountered by each supreme audit body during the assessment of national climate performance were also touched upon. It was mentioned about the importance of having a strategic management framework in the field of climate action and considering the climate problem in the state financial management system, the need to present the variety and timeliness of information related to climate action, as well as the necessity of forming the personnel potential for the assessment of climate action.

Within the framework of the visit, the Chairman of the Chamber of Accounts, Vugar Gulmammadov, met with the Chairman of the INTOSAI organisation, Bruno Dantas, the President of the Court of Accounts of Brazil, and the representative of the Secretariat of the Working Group on Environmental Audit of INTOSAI. COP29 and related issues on the assessment of the national climate actions of countries were discussed at the meeting.

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27 March 2024 11:44 (UTC+04:00)

The price of oil has dropped in global markets, Azernews reports.

At the ICE (InterContinental Exchange Futures) exchange in London, the price of one barrel of oil branded "Brent" decreased by 0.8 dollars to 85.45 dollars.

Meanwhile, at the NYMEX (New York Mercantile Exchange) exchange in New York, the price of one barrel of oil branded "Light" amounted to 80.91 dollars, decreasing by 0.71 dollars.

The latest price of crude oil in the international market is subject to constant fluctuations due to factors such as global demand, geopolitical events, production levels, and economic indicators.

The COVID-19 pandemic also had a dramatic effect on oil prices in recent times. Lockdown measures and travel restrictions significantly reduced global oil demand, leading to a sharp decrease in prices. However, as vaccination programs progress and economies recover, oil prices have shown signs of recovery.

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27 March 2024 20:44 (UTC+04:00)

Fatime Letifova Read more

The rapid polarisation of the world has further stimulated a number of states in the West to enjoy the occurrence of inhumane crimes such as conflict, genocide, and terrorism in the East. Because the long-term continuation of wars increases the trade in weapons and drugs and contributes to their "economy".

It's no secret that there are many countries and organisations in the world, including the United States, that present themselves as peace promoters, but in the background, they fuel conflicts, show bias, and use double standards when appropriate. They consider the thousands of people killed as just a number and consider conflicts and wars as a sustainable source of increasing their personal income. For example, the projects of Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq and the current situation of these countries are vivid examples of this.

In addition, it should be noted that for the state and so-called organisations, human life, moral values, and ecological problems are not important at all. On the contrary, they try to boycott the steps taken towards the elimination of conflicts and use various manoeuvres for this. Because the main thing is to make the conflict chronic and make profits out of it.

Recent events in the region once again prove that the only obstacle to the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia is the forces in the West.

The essence of the matter is very simple; that is, Armenia wants peace, but foreign forces prevent it. In a nutshell, the speeches of the Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, showing the model of the map of Armenia in which the four villages of Tavush are not included, indicate that the disputed villages will soon be returned to Azerbaijan and peace negotiations are close.

Long-lasting processes have already led Armenia to take steps towards peace in the South Caucasus. This is clearly manifested in the positions and speeches of the Armenian leadership. While the Armenian side was in full cooperation with the Western forces before, in the current situation, official Yerevan seems to be faced with a dilemma. Even in some cases, in exchange for progressive steps, Yerevan faces pressure from the leadership of France and the European Union.

Illegal territorial claims, accusations of genocide, and similar unfounded statements against Azerbaijan have continued severely since the Second Garabagh War. Now Armenia is lagging behind the West in anti-Azerbaijan propaganda.

In particular, the statements of US and EU officials, which hinder peace and incite hostility in the region, endanger the possibilities of peace.

For example, the mask of the United States, which is currently trying to implement the "dove of peace" mission, dropped in 1992 when it adopted the 907th Amendment, ignored the military occupation of Armenia against Azerbaijan and the expulsion of hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan.

Even after the second Garabagh war, James O'Brien, who served as an Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs of the US State Department, as well as congressional officials, expressed their biased position on the issues in the South Caucasus and openly opposed Azerbaijan's restoration of its territorial integrity.

After these statements, official Baku refused to participate in the meeting of the United States on peace negotiations and declared that it would not be a tool for such games of the United States.

It was after this that US officials claimed that James O'Brien was to blame and insisted on his visit to Baku with requests and apology statements.

Indeed, it is expected that a state that only brings strife and disasters to the territories where it steps will be disgusted with Azerbaijan's liberation of its historical lands from Armenian occupation.

But what is the purpose of Europe, which is considered superior to other regions due to its "gentle" approach?

It is no secret that the liberation of Garabagh from occupation worries not only the United States but also European officials, especially France and the Armenian diaspora here.

The European Union's (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Joseph Borrell, says in almost every speech that Azerbaijan violates Armenia's territorial integrity and threatens that the "occupational" policy will harm relations between Azerbaijan and the EU.

Although Azerbaijan has repeatedly stated that no official body can threaten Baku in this way, European officials are trying to incite the Armenian people more and drag them into war in the region day by day.

Moreover, these institutions are not so zealous because they care about the interests of the Armenian people and the well-being of Armenia.

During the war, everything was in sight. The Western forces, knowing in advance that Armenia would be defeated, watched the process from the outside and occasionally made inappropriate interventions through their chitchat media.

As a result, destroyed lands, broken moral values, spilled blood, and families who lost their relatives are left behind.

People who try to be more Armenian than Armenians can only be so bold in the media. It should not be forgotten that during the 44-day war, none of the people who made these pathetic speeches and threatened Azerbaijan were on the battlefield. At the end of the 44-day war, the Azerbaijani flag was flying in liberated Garabagh.

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27 March 2024 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

Search operations at "Crocus City Hall" have been completed.

According to Azernews, this was stated by the head of the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) in the Moscow Region, Sergey Poletykin.

"All efforts to rescue and search for victims have been completed. I can say that there are no more victims under the ruins," Poletykin said.

He added that the rescue team will start to leave the emergency scene.

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27 March 2024 12:43 (UTC+04:00)

By Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani

The relationship between Azerbaijan and Pakistan is on the brink of a new chapter, poised to soar to unprecedented heights as both nations eagerly seek to deepen their bond through enhanced cooperation across various sectors. As Pakistan commemorates its national day, Azerbaijan extends heartfelt congratulations and warm wishes to the Prime Minister and the resilient people of Pakistan. This momentous occasion serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring friendship between the two nations, underscored by mutual respect and a shared aspiration for success.

Notably, this year's Pakistan Day Parade, held on March 23rd, saw enthusiastic participation from military delegations representing Azerbaijan and China, further solidifying the bond between these nations. Major Mehran Craiozo from the Azerbaijan Army expressed heartfelt sentiments, stating, "Pakistan is our brother country, and we always feel honored to be part of this special occasion." He went on to highlight the high morale among the troops following a successful rehearsal the day before.

The convergence of celebrations and military camaraderie underscores the deep-rooted ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, setting the stage for a future marked by strengthened cooperation and shared achievements. As both nations look ahead, there is a palpable sense of optimism and determination to embark on a journey of mutual growth and prosperity.

Azerbaijan and Pakistan are prepared to fortify their bond further, with Azerbaijan expressing gratitude for Pakistan's steadfast support, particularly in safeguarding its borders. With enthusiasm, both countries anticipate enhanced cooperation in trade, commerce, and defense to foster each other's advancement and prosperity. Moreover, the prospect of future meetings between leaders from both nations ignites optimism, while Azerbaijan extends its wishes for peace and happiness to all the people of Pakistan.

The commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan is echoed in their shared vision for mutual growth and prosperity. A recent meeting between Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar of Pakistan and Azerbaijans Foreign Minister Bayramov Jeyhun marked a significant milestone, emphasizing the peaceful applications of nuclear technology. Both ministers pledged to bolster collaborative efforts, recognizing the pivotal role of nuclear energy in addressing environmental concerns and combating climate change.

The enduring friendship and shared interests between Azerbaijan and Pakistan have laid the groundwork for a robust and cooperative relationship across various sectors. In the defense arena, both nations have engaged in military exchanges, joint training exercises, and cooperation on defense equipment sales, acknowledging the importance of modernizing their armed forces to meet evolving security challenges. Additionally, Azerbaijan's abundant energy resources complement Pakistan's expertise, paving the way for joint ventures and investment projects to spur economic growth.

Cultural exchange and educational partnerships have played a vital role in nurturing relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan. Collaborative efforts in education have provided Azerbaijani and Pakistani students with scholarships, research partnerships, and academic exchanges, enriching the educational landscape in both countries. Moreover, initiatives promoting cultural understanding through events and exhibitions have further strengthened ties between the two nations.

Looking ahead, Azerbaijan and Pakistan are poised to deepen their partnership through high-level visits, academic collaboration, and people-to-people interactions. Both nations express a shared interest in addressing regional issues such as counterterrorism and energy security. By leveraging their collective strengths, Azerbaijan and Pakistan aim to promote regional stability and development, contributing to peace and prosperity in the South Asian and Caspian regions.

To further strengthen bilateral relations, strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts can be undertaken to deepen cooperation and foster mutual growth. These include exploring additional areas for collaboration such as technology, education, healthcare, and tourism, facilitating joint economic initiatives and investment projects, promoting cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts, strengthening collaboration in science and technology, and enhancing defense and security cooperation.

Furthermore, both countries should coordinate efforts to support regional initiatives aimed at promoting peace, stability, and development. Facilitating regular Track II dialogues and exchanges between think tanks, academia, and civil society organizations can provide valuable insights and recommendations for enhancing bilateral relations. Additionally, launching public diplomacy campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of Azerbaijan-Pakistan relations among the public can foster a sense of solidarity and partnership among the people.

So far, Azerbaijan and Pakistan have identified common areas of interest and are collaborating to address key regional issues such as security, economic development, and regional stability. Through their collaborative approach, they are paving the way for greater progress and advancements in their partnership, well-positioned to achieve remarkable success together. Their shared commitment to cooperation and mutual understanding sets the stage for a bright future marked by shared successes and prosperity for both nations.

(Azernews does not carry any responsibility for the content. The writer, a foreign affairs analyst, political commentator, and media advisor, can be reached via email at [email protected].)

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A container ship rests against wreckage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge at the Port of Baltimore, where ship traffic has been halted by the bridge collapse. Matt Rourke/AP

Port Houston leaders have offered help to the Port of Baltimore in the wake of Tuesdays collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge that has halted shipping at that citys port.

This is not a normal thing, but this is an inherently dangerous business that were in, said Port Houston Chairman Ric Campo at the Port Commissions regular monthly meeting Tuesday. We are ready to help our brothers and sisters in Baltimore as much as we can.

Some of Baltimores incoming ship traffic could be rerouted to the Port of Houston until the waterway is cleared of the ruins of the Key Bridge. The Port of Baltimore said Tuesday that while it continues to process trucks at its terminals, vessel traffic in and out of the port is suspended until further notice. Baltimore is the top port in the nation for vehicle imports, as well as a major hub for wood, paper and sugar, among other commodities.

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The Port of Houston is the largest on the Gulf Coast, and its waterborne tonnage places it first among U.S. ports. Last month, the port handled nearly the equivalent of 400,000 20-foot shipping containers, 20% more than the same month a year earlier. And port authorities are planning for continued growth with the ongoing Project 11, a $1 billion expansion of the Houston Ship Channel.

Project 11, Campo said Tuesday, is aimed at maintaining Port Houstons safety, the paramount consideration for port leaders as container volumes grow and pilots navigate the 52-mile ship channel.

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27 March 2024 21:10 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

The South Korean military intends to purchase about 60 small satellites and microsatellites and launch them by 2030 to conduct independent reconnaissance against the DPRK, Azernews reports, citing foreign media outlets.

Seoul plans to purchase from 10 to 20 small satellites and about 40 microsatellites. Small satellites can be launched between 2026 and 2028, and microsatellites from 2028 to 2030.

The South Korean authorities are striving to implement this initiative, as they have come to the conclusion that five medium-sized satellites will not be enough to track the DPRK - so many devices are planned to be launched before 2025. After an increase of 60 units, the grouping of satellites will provide reconnaissance with an interval of 30 minutes.

As Yonhap explains, microsatellites include devices weighing less than 100 kg, and the mass of small satellites is less than 500 kg. Both types of satellites are planned to be launched using South Korean missiles.

The first reconnaissance satellite of the Republic of Korea was launched in December 2023 from the American base Vandenberg in California on a Falcon 9 rocket of the American company SpaceX. The second satellite is expected to be sent into orbit in early April.

On November 21, 2023, North Korea launched its first reconnaissance satellite, Malligyong-1.

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President Joe Biden's brother told the Internal Revenue Service that Hunter Biden told him he was in business with areferring to the leader of China, according to notes by an IRS investigator that were divulged during a congressional interview of Jim Biden.When asked by Congress about the comment, Jim Biden affirmed thathe said in regards to Ye Jianming, the chairman of Chinese energy firm CEFC, who was later arrested for fraud in China and disappeared.He later said his comments used asayingJim also denied the existence of a meeting between the now-president and himself, Hunter, and Tony Bobulinski, who were pursuing a lucrative deal with CECF-appearing to contradict Hunter, who later corroborated elements of the meeting to the same congressmen.In his transcribed interview, Jim railed against Bobulinski, who has said that Joe Biden met with him and Hunter Biden about CEFC in May 2017 at the bar of a hotel in Beverly Hills where Joe Biden was staying. Text messages showed Jim arranging to meet with Bobulinski. But Jim strenuously and unambiguously declared that a meeting with Joe never occurred.he told Congress.Jim testified privately to the House Oversight and Judiciary committees on February 21 as part of their impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden, but the committees did not release the transcript until Friday, shortly after of testimony by Hunter Biden, who engaged in overseas businesses with his father's brother.So Hunter might not have known about his uncle's answer when he admitted this week thatwerewhenAdditionally, Bobulinski texted Jim:Jim Biden said in the deposition that he helped Zang Jianjun, Chairman Ye's lieutenant, get a U.S. visa through a former immigration official, find an apartment in New York City, and locate a school for his children.he said.Jim Biden said that Zang, through a Washington, D.C.-based associate, gave Hunter Biden a diamond, and that Hunter Biden gave it to him. He threw it in the trash after a jeweler told him it was only worth a few hundred dollars, he said.Jim Biden said that Joe Biden's assertion during the election that his family did not take money from China was not false because CEFC was a private Chinese company. Jim Biden said he believed CEFC was not government-affiliated because he took Hunter Biden's word for it, even though he also said that Hunter Biden was erratic.He also said that Joe Biden didn't know about the CEFC deal at all, contradicting other evidence. The IRS interviewed Jim Biden and also reviewed evidence into Hunter Biden's affairs, some of which was introduced in the congressional deposition. In one text, Hunter Biden wrote that hishe said, referring to Ye.Jim Biden said he later encouraged Hunter Biden to cut Bobulinski and other partners out of the CEFC deal, saying they had not brought any investment leads - though he also couldn't point to any that Hunter had generated.The president's brother said that when bank records show him writing checks for $240,000 to Joe Biden - money traceable back to CEFC - it was to repay money that Joe lent him, though it was unclear whether bank records reflect Joe actually sending that money.a congressman asked.Jim Biden's lawyer said.the congressman said.the lawyer said.Jim Biden categorically denied numerous specific charges from multiple sources in a recent Politico story that said he invoked his brother's name when doing business with hospital firm Americore. The article said aJim Biden said of the claim,The article also claimed thatto which Jim Biden responded:Politico also obtained an email in which Jim Biden wrote to a healthcare executive,House Republicans asked,to which Jim Biden repliedAsked ifJim Biden said,Other Hunter business associates have said that Hunter did just that.The president's brother, who went on rambling discursions during the interview, said he had a close relationship with Hunter Biden in part because he was also a recovering alcoholic.he explained.He said he has taken loans from John Hynansky, who owns car dealerships in the Ukraine and Delaware, and who President Biden mentioned in a speech in the Ukraine while he was Vice President. He said he has not paid them off because the lender is wealthy andAfter Hollywood lawyer Kevin Morris paid off Hunter Biden's tax debts, Jim Biden said Hunter Biden asked him to thank Morriswith the comment suggesting that he was speaking on behalf of Joe.
Flaring at an oil field in Midland. Oil companies operating on federal and tribal lands will have to curb the practice of flaring and venting natural gas, the Biden administration announced. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer

WASHINGTON  Oil companies operating on federal and tribal lands will have to curb the practice of flaring and venting natural gas, the Biden administration announced Wednesday.

Under a new regulation finalized by the Bureau of Land Management, companies must take reasonable steps to avoid the waste of natural gas, including leak detection and repair, and will have to pay royalties on avoidable losses of gas.

By leveraging modern technology and best practices to reduce natural gas waste, we are taking long-overdue steps that will increase accountability for oil and gas operators and benefit energy communities now and for generations to come, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said in a statement.

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The new rule updates laws that are more than 40 years old, during which time the percentage of natural gas lost to venting and flaring has more than doubled, according to the Interior Department.

Drilling operations on federal and tribal lands accounted for 11% of U.S. oil production and 9% of natural gas production in 2022.

The oil sector has been moving to reduce instances of natural gas flaring, venting and leaks toward reducing its greenhouse gas footprint as the Biden administration cracks down on emissions.

The American Petroleum Institute said it was reviewing the new rule and will consider all options to prevent regulatory overreach.

API supports a smart regulatory framework for reducing methane emissions, but overlapping regulations and lack of coordination between policymakers could hinder progress, create unnecessary barriers to development on federal lands and result in regulatory incoherence, API Vice President of Upstream Policy Holly Hopkins said in a statement.

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The Interior Department estimates the new rule would result in $50 million in additional royalty payments each year to the federal government and Native American tribes.

Jon Goldstein, senior director of regulatory and legislative affairs at the Environmental Defense Fund, praised the new rule as protecting taxpayers from wasted energy resources.
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?

98.7% No, I do not support Election Interference; I am a patriot unto our Constitution.1.3% 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?
In 2023, the Biden regime diverted money from other programs to fly in 320,000 illegal aliens to America, to 43 different US airports. These were people who had not even applied for legal immigration status through the proper process, but were just picked up by chartered planes in places like Venezuela that were sent by the Biden regime at US taxpayer expense..

In the debate on the omnibus budget bill rammed through Saturday, Seantor Bill Hagerty (R-TN) offered an amendment to disallow any federal funds of any sort to fly in illegal aliens. All 51 Democrat US Senators voted against Haggerty's amendment. They want to keep the illegal Air Biden in business.

https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2024/03/26/exclusive-sen-bill-hagerty-democrats-blocked-bill-to-stop-taxpayers-from-flying-illegals-into-u-s/

In constrast, legal immigrants have to go through a vetting process, where their health history, criminal records, work history, ability to earn an income, connection to radical causes, and other factors are looked at careful. If approved, they then have to pay their own transportation to the US. Under Biden, illegal aliens are given preference and advantages over legal immigrats.

These Democrats in Congress need to be voted out of office. They are betraying America.
Tuberculosis carried by illegal migrants has already infected Texas cattle, but a longtime veterinarian says flesh-eating parasites could be next.

By Darlene McCormick Sanchez at The Epoch Times

Mass migration exposes the United States food supply to diseases and parasites that could ultimately affect national security, animal health experts told The Epoch Times.

With unfettered illegal immigrationsome 9 million encounters since 2021the normal guardrails for inspection are ignored, raising the likelihood of unwanted diseases being brought across the border.

Dr. Michael Vickers has been a veterinarian for about 50 years and served on the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC),

The threat to the food supply is already apparent from the past cases of tuberculosis (TB) transmitted from illegal immigrants to dairy cows in Texas, he said.

Concerns are growing that its only a matter of time before U.S. agriculture experiences a fresh disaster on a grand scale, Dr. Vickers said.

These people are just destroying our country. And our food supply is going to be a real critical issue, he told The Epoch Times.

In recent years, thousands of Texas cattle have been slaughtered after being infected with drug-resistant TB through contact with illegal aliens who end up working in dairies, Dr. Vickers said.

He recalled two separate instances in which dairy herds were infected with human strains of TB in the Texas Panhandle. Certain strains of TB are zoonotic, meaning that they can be spread between humans and animals.

One Texas herd of about 10,000 was affected in Castro County in 2015, and another 13,000 cattle were affected in Sherman County in 2019, according to TAHC records.

Investigators found that the human strains had originated outside of the United States.

Most of the dairy herds in the United States are actually milked by people from Central America and beyond, Dr. Vickers said.

The USDA bought the Castro County herd and slaughtered it, he said. The Sherman County herd, which consisted of higher-priced organic cows, continued to be tested for TB, with infected animals removed from the herd.

Dr. Vickers said he learned that 12 illegal immigrants who were working with those dairy herds were infected with TB.

Rules meant to keep people who are carrying disease out of the United States have been sidelined under the Biden administration, according to Ammon Blair, a border security advocate at the Texas Public Policy Foundation and former Border Patrol agent.

Were really just mass releasing these people into the United States that could be carrying multiple diseases that arent even checked, he told The Epoch Times.

For the first time in a quarter of a century, a New World screwworm resurgence is underway in Central Americaa region that many migrants pass through on their way to the U.S. border.

Dr. Vickers fears that the screwworm could make its way into the United States again.

Susan Kibbe, executive director of the South Texans Property Rights Association, said shes old enough to remember the screwworm outbreak when she was a teenager in Texas. She recalls having to scrape screwworm maggots out of the bellybuttons of newborn calves.

It was devastating, she said.

Ms. Kibbe told The Epoch Times that she is concerned about diseases being brought into Texas from mass illegal immigration from South America through the Darien Gap in Panama and into Central America.

She said a fever tick outbreak has already driven some ranchers out of business and that any new disease or parasite outbreak could push more ranchers to the financial brinkand endanger food security.

Texas counties bordering Mexico are already under a fever tick quarantine to stop them from spreading to livestock and deer in the state.

Fever ticks can carry a parasite that causes babesiosis, a malaria-like disease that can decimate a herd.

We need to be food and energy independent and not dependent on other countries that dont have our best interests at heart. I mean this is a big deal, Ms. Kibbe said.

Central American Disaster

Costa Rica declared a screwworm emergency in February after reporting its first case in July 2023, according to the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service.

Costa Ricas animal health authority, SENASA, reported the case in the Corredores region of southwestern Costa Rica near the Panamanian border crossing of Paso Canoas.

The USDA stated that despite a weekly aerial release of nearly 15 million sterile flies, Costa Rica hasnt been able to halt the pests progress, placing not just Costa Rican dairy and beef cattle at increasing risk but also endangering wild animals, domestic pets, and humans.

That prompted the emergency declaration, which will provide access to additional financial resources that SENASA needs to ramp up its campaign to re-eradicate New World screwworm from Costa Rica, according to the USDA. The agency also imposed additional requirements on live animals entering the United States from Costa Rica.

However, larvae could reach the United States by hitching a ride on people, in luggage, or on backpacks, Dr. Vickers said.

TAHC said there are only general precautions for diseases that can be spread between humans and animals currently in Texas; there is not one specifically for screwworms.

While the current climate is consistent with an increase in vector borne diseases, there is only a general watch regarding vigilance for vector borne diseases across the board, the TAHC stated in an email to The Epoch Times.

Screwworm infestations begin when a female fly lays eggs on a wound or mucus membranes of a mammal, including humans.

The flies are attracted to the scent of a wound or orifices, such as the eyes and nose, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Wounds as minor as a tick bite could attract a female to feed. A single female could produce some 3,000 eggs during its up to 30-day lifespan.

Eggs hatch into larvae, or maggots, that burrow into the flesh of animals and eat them alive.

Dr. Vickers remembers treating Texas livestock that were horribly maimed by a screwworm outbreak in the 1970s.

We even had some people in some nursing homes here, and some elderly people die from screwworms with the larvae getting in their nostrils and migrating up into their brains, he recalled.

Overall, it was an economic blow to the Texas livestock industry, Dr. Vickers said.

Luckily, the USDA came up with a way to eradicate the flies by releasing sterile flies to mate with those in the wild, although that didnt prevent a 2016 outbreak in Florida or the current outbreak in Costa Rica.

The screwworm maggots were found on the endangered Key deer in the Florida Keys. More than 2.7 million sterile flies from Panama, where they are bred with the help of the United States, were released to swarm the archipelago to wipe out the screwworm infestation, and the outbreak was contained within a few months.

The PanamaU.S. Commission for the Eradication and Prevention of Screwworms (COPEG) was established in 1994 to release the flies in Central America to stop them from making their way to North America.

The USDA didnt respond to an email seeking comment on the potential for another screwworm infestation heading up from Central America.

The Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association referred comments to the TAHC.

Sick at the Border

President Joe Biden rescinded former President Donald Trumps Remain in Mexico policy, under which would-be asylum-seekers stayed in Mexico while awaiting adjudication on their immigration court case. Instead, most are released directly into the United States.

That has allowed wholesale importation of illnesses that illegal immigrants may have.

Health screening at the border consists of asking illegal immigrants if they are sick or pregnant, Mr. Blair said.

A nurse will ask them to lift their shirts and walk by to see if there are any signs of skin disease, he said.

That is the only check theyre given, Mr. Blair said.

Besides TB, there have been cases of illegal immigrants bringing in chicken pox, mumps, measles, leprosy, COVID-19, and sexually transmitted diseases.

Yet, legal immigrants and refugees are required to have a medical examination for migration to the United States while they are still overseas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC reports that immigration applicants with communicable diseases are not allowed entry into the United States, but without screenings for illegal immigrants at the border, theres no way to enforce the measure.

Customs and Border Protection procedures for U.S. citizens returning home from abroad also require them to fill out Declaration Form 6059B.

The form provides basic information to the federal government about what agricultural and wildlife products travelers are bringing into the country and whether they have visited a farm prior to entering the United States.

Mr. Blair said disease brought in by mass migration is a ticking time bomb for the U.S. food supply.

Unfortunately, many do not view food security [or] sovereignty as national security, he said. This is going to be a massive problem.

Large-scale agriculture operations are known for hiring illegal immigrants as a form of cheap labor, Mr. Blair said.

Dr. Vickers worries that a large-scale disease or parasite outbreak would further erode the nations food supply. He said that cattle numbers across the country are already at a 75-year low.

Many farmers are going bankrupt because of the high cost of production. To make ends meet, some are installing solar panels in fields once used to grow food, Dr. Vickers said.

The 2022 Census of Agriculture by the Department of Agriculture shows that the United States lost nearly 107,000 beef cattle farms and ranches during the previous five-year period.

That puts the rate of loss at 21,000 cattle producers per year, resulting in the smallest nationwide beef cow herd in decadesand less available food for Americans.

Dr. Vickers said he doesnt believe that its a coincidence that theres less food production under the Biden administration, which blames agriculture for global warming and supports lab-grown meat for the same reason.

This administration doesnt want us to eat cattle. They want us to eat bugs, he said.

The administrations position on farming was recently highlighted by President Bidens climate envoy, John Kerry.

We cant get to net zero, we dont get this job done, unless agriculture is front and center as part of the solution, he said at the 2023 AIM for Climate Summit in Washington.
Raynaldo Ortiz Jr., MD, an anesthesiologist who allegedly injected heart-stopping drugs into IV bags at Baylor Scott & White Surgicare North Dallas, appeared in court ahead of his trial, which is set to begin April 1, according to ABC affiliate WFAA.

Dr. Ortiz has been in federal custody since his arrest for allegedly injecting IV bags with bupivacaine, epinephrine and lidocaine.

The investigation began after the June 21 death of fellow anesthesiologist Melanie Kaspar, MD, who worked at the ASC. She was originally thought to have had a heart attack, but the Dallas County medical examiner ruled her death to be from the effects of bupivacaine. According to the board, she took an IV bag home with her when she was ill to rehydrate, inserted the IV into her vein, had a serious cardiac event and died.

There also is surveillance footage in which Dr. Ortiz appears to place IV bags in warmers outside operating rooms before patients experienced unexpected cardiac emergencies.

He faces life in prison if convicted of federal charges. He has pleaded not guilty.
A physician couple from Hollidaysburg, Pa., have pleaded guilty to healthcare fraud.

Anesthesiologist John Johnson, MD, 62, entered into an agreement to defraud health insurers for fraudulently billing for urine drug tests, according to a March 25 news release from the Justice Department.

He conspired with others in a scheme involving pain management practices in Central Pennsylvania, known as Lighthouse Medical and Pain Medicine of York. His co-conspirator and business partner, Rodney Yentzer, acquired the group at the suggestion of Dr. Johnson.

In 2016, Dr. Johnson, and Mr. Yentzer made a deal with a hospital to sell Lighthouse Medical's laboratory services in exchange for the right to bill. The hospital paid Lighthouse $900 per test in kickbacks, the release said. In total, the owners of the hospital billed payers approximately $1.4 billion for laboratory testing services that were not medically necessary, and Lighthouse Medical received $2.3 million in kickbacks over a four-month period; 85% of this amount went to Dr. Johnson.

Dr. Johnson's wife, Paula Johnson, MD, 62, both pleaded guilty to healthcare fraud and conspiracy to defraud the U.S. The couple conspired to evade payments that Dr. John Johnson was required to make for a prior criminal conviction.

In 2016, Dr. John Johnson was charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud. In 2017, Dr. John Johnson got Mr. Yentzer to put Dr. Paula Johnson on the payroll before he was sentenced to 84 months in prison for fraudulent billing, the release said.

Dr. John Johnson instructed Mr. Yentzer to continue to bill every patient for two urine drug tests at each visit, the Justice Department said.

From mid-2017 to late 2019, Pain Medicine of York billed Medicare for around $10 million for urine testing, with more than $4 million paid out. Pain Medicine of York shut down in November 2019 after search warrants were executed.

Mr. Yentzer pleaded guilty in 2022 to charges related to the fraud, the release said.






The Simi Valley Police Department is investigating a bomb threat made at a surgery center in California, the VC Star reported March 26.

Police responded to the threat on the morning of March 26 after staff found threatening letters outside the building. The letter was vague but reportedly told staff at the center to run, according to Sgt. Travis Coffey, who also said investigators will test the letter for DNA and other evidence.

The surgery center involved in the incident was not named in the report.
Here are five health systems that have sold facilities in the last year:

1. In February, Banner Health sold a three-building outpatient medical building portfolio in Arizona for $32 million. Banner Health also sold its Peoria, Ariz.-based Banner Health Center in March 2023 for $29 million, with plans to lease it back from the new owner.

2. University Hospitals sold its Wellness Campus medical office building in Mentor, Ohio.

3. In June 2023, St. Louis-based Ascension agreed to transfer ownership of its Binghamton, N.Y.-based Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Hospital and its affiliated facilities, including an ASC, to the Sayre, Pa.-based Guthrie Clinic.

4. Dayton, Ohio-based Premier Health sold the building that houses its downtown headquarters for more than $5.5 million to Dayton-based Arkham Blue, an Ohio limited liability company.

5. Franklin, Tenn.-based Community Health Systems agreed to sell three Florida hospitals to Tampa General Hospital for $294 million.
ASCs in many markets have to compete with the deep pockets of hospitals to recruit and retain staff.

Karen Sumida, RN, interim administrator of Surgery Center of Athens (Texas), joined Becker's to discuss how staffing shortages are the biggest disrupter of the ASC industry.

Editor's note: This response was edited lightly for brevity

Question: What will disrupt the ASC industry next?

Karen Sumida: I unfortunately feel like nursing and certified surgical technologist shortages will continue to disrupt the ASC industry in the future. Many nurses that could retire during COVID-19 did and others left the field or took jobs that can be done remotely. Applicants for both positions are requiring higher salaries, and with the ASC industry getting lower reimbursements than hospitals, we can not compete with the rising salaries. Many RNs and CSTs are leaving the ASC setting and going to work at the hospitals to get a better salary. Staffing is and will continue to be a problem in the ASC setting.
West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice signed a bill that expands the state's Medicaid dental coverage cap, according to a March 26 report by West Virginia Watch.

House Bill 4993 doubles the cap from $1,000 to $2,000 over two years, which is meant to allow individuals to get both sets of dentures at the same appointment. Due to the current cap of $1,000, Medicaid recipients are usually not able to get both sets at the same time, which cost approximately $600 each.

The state's Medicaid program covers diagnostic, preventive and restorative dental services.

"The new law enables dentists to provide more care to Medicaid patients in fewer office visits," said Hallie Mason, executive director of the West Virginia Dental Association. "It will not increase the cost of the care, so it is a win for Medicaid patients and taxpayers."

The bill goes into effect July 1, the report said.
Thousand Oaks, Calif.-based Los Robles Medical Center continues to face state citations due to understaffing and a lack of care for patient well-being and consistently ranks above the statewide average of complaints, local news outlet The Echo reported March 26.

Los Robles, an affiliate of Nashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare, received 86 complaints in 2023, nearly three times higher than the statewide average of 32 that year, according to data from the California Department of Public Health.

In 2022, the hospital faced 87 complaints, when the statewide average was 32. So far this year, Los Robles has received seven complaints, with the statewide average at three. The CDPH updates data quarterly.

The state has hit Los Robles with various financial citations, including fines for failing to meet staffing requirements and two incidents in which surgical equipment was left inside patients, according to the report.

"Year over year, you can see that Los Robles, who's owned by a for-profit corporate giant, HCA, which is known for profits, brags about staffing the bottom line, has 30, 40, 50% more complaints just on a day-to-day basis than other facilities in the Ventura County area," Corey Clark, RN, nurses union representative for the Service Employees International Union Local 121RN, told The Echo. "Not only do they have more complaints, they have more substantial complaints, which means the state went in and found a violation."

The Center for Health Care Quality's licensing and certification program oversees healthcare facilities and providers in California. It also investigates consumer complaints of alleged facility noncompliance with state or federal regulations and facility-reported incidents.

Anyone can file a complaint against a healthcare facility; once complaints pass the citation process, state officials can investigate the hospital in person.

Mary Meador, RN, who works at Los Robles, filed multiple complaints against the hospital and argues that inadequate staffing has been a consistent problem that negatively affects both patients and staff, according to the report.

"They understaff their hospitals, they don't give us enough nurses to help care for all the patients that we have, and it's been a problem for years," Ms. Meador told The Echo.

HCA did not respond to Becker's request for comment. Becker's also reached out to Los Robles and will update this story as more information becomes available.
Walking into Bar Bludorn feels familiar.

The gleaming stainless steel kitchen acts like a stage opening up to the dining room. Each seat, hunter green banquettes or walnut chairs, offers a view of chefs cooking dishes from the modern American bistro menu. Gentle lighting and low ceilings give the space a cavernous vibe.

Chef Aaron Bludorn has tapped this winning design formula before, in opening hit restaurants Bludorn and Navy Blue with his wife Victoria Bludorn and their business partner Cherif Mbodji. With Bar Bludorn, 9061 Gaylord, debuting March 29, the team is aiming to entice Houstonians to dine at the upscale tavern or simply swing by the bar for a drink.

At the end of the day, I want it to be a neighborhood restaurant, Aaron Bludorn said.

Cherif Mdboji, left, business partners with Aaron Bludorn, right, his wife Victoria at Bar Bludorn Karen Warren/Staff photographer

HOUSTON EATS: The Chronicles top 100 restaurants

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Bar Bludorn's dining room and bar

Bar Bludorn is in some ways an expansion of the bar area at Bludorn, the Fourth Ward restaurant that opened during the pandemic to positive reviews.

It takes the casual and convivial energy of the bar that customers seek in a neighborhood favorite, Aaron Bludorn said, and it expands on it with the Bludorn teams focus on offering quality food and service.

Executive chef Alexandra Pena, top left, oversees the kitchen and its modern American bistro menu

In the kitchen, executive chef Alexandra Pena offers some flashbacks to the two other Bludorn restaurants shes cooked at in the past few years.

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Oysters served three ways (raw, fried and roasted) kick off a menu that combines Gulf seafood with crowd pleasers such as steaks and fried chicken. In Bludorn's style, even classic dishes feel modern  carbonara features tangles of pasta cradling a soft egg yolk surrounded by nubs of rendered bacon and English peas.

Burgers will use bread thats been baked on site. A wagyu short rib pastrami sandwich on marbled rye is an upgrade on the diner staple.

We want things to be very straightforward, Aaron Bludorn said. Well start off here and once it gets into the world, itll evolve.

Fans of Bludorns restaurants may recognize other faces, too. Sommelier Molly Austad is in charge of the wine list. Cole Parry, the former general manager of Bludorn, has moved to this location in Memorial and will work alongside Mbodji to run the front of the house.

Executive pastry chef Marie Riddle's desserts include a matcharisu, left, and a foie gras candy bar

Executive pastry chef Marie Riddle, whos overseen desserts at Bludorn and Navy Blue the past few years, is also leading the sweet side of the menu here. Her creative recipes include a Matchamisu, a play on the Italian classic tiramisu but adds on black sesame, among other touches. There's also a candy bar stuffed with marshmallow, foie gras and candied peanuts.

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MORE FROM BAO ONG: James Beard-nominated pastry chef opens trailblazing Mexican-inspired restaurant in the Heights

Bar Bludorn took over the space of Jonthan's The Rub, also a neighborhood favorite in Memorial

Bar Bludorns opening is also making a case that Memorial is becoming a restaurant destination.

Around the corner, restaurateur Levi Goode plans to open Credence and Sidebar, a restaurant and reservations-only cocktail bar, respectively, under his newly-launched eponymous lifestyle brand Levi Goode. Other notable openings slated for this year in the area include barbecue favorite the Pit Room and Dallas import Haywire.

Memorial has reputation as a restaurant desert, but as Jonathan Levine puts it, local residents will support businesses they love.

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In 2008 he opened Jonathans The Rub in the space Bar Bludorn has now taken over, and built a loyal following that included Victoria Bludorn and her family, whose home was nearby.

Jonathans The Rub, which served classic American fare (think bacon-wrapped scallops and fried chicken), moved down the street in 2020 and now has two locations.

We made it comfortable for people to come back again and again, Levine said.

Aaron and Victoria Bludorn were living in New York City when they began dating, but when visiting her family, they stopped by the neighborhood restaurant a few times over the years before moving to Houston.

She described Jonathans The Rub as a quintessential neighborhood restaurant that had that same familiar feeling when you walk into your own home. You see people you know, you feel relaxed.

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The Bar Bludorn team said it aims to capture a part of that vibe when it opens to the public. To mimic those intangibles, as Victoria Bludorn described it, they displayed the work of local artists on the walls and signed off on designs that felt timeless and comfortable.

Bar Bludorn aims to celebrate the Memorial neighborhood and local artists

At the entrance, gold letters imprinted on the terrazzo floor spell out "Memorial."

Even though weve done this twice, each part has its growing pains and you learn something new, Victoria Bludorn said. Im excited to see what Bar Bludorn evolves into once it finds its footing and takes off.
A ransomware group that specializes in "double extortion" has claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on an Oklahoma hospital, HIPAA Journal reported.

The Bian Lian hacking gang posted Lindsay (Okla.) Municipal Hospital to its data leak site and said the stolen data would be uploaded soon, according to the March 25 story.

The hackers' "double extortion" forte means they steal data then require ransom payments to both release the information and decrypt any encrypted files, the news outlet reported. HHS has warned that Bian Lian is targeting healthcare providers because of the group's financial motivations.

Lindsay Municipal Hospital reported March 13 to HHS' Office of Civil Rights that 500 individuals were affected by a hacking incident, though HIPAA Journal noted that 500 is typically used as a placeholder to satisfy reporting requirements when the exact number is unknown. Becker's reached out to the hospital for comment.
Bryn Mawr (Pa.) Hospital has established its first endowed vice presidency, naming Fiona Felton, DNP, RN, the inaugural Claire Baldwin endowed vice president of patient care services.

The role honors Claire Baldwin, MSN, RN, who worked at Bryn Mawr Hospital from 1984 to 2012. She served in various roles throughout her tenure, from instructing in the nursing school to assuming the title of vice president of administration/nursing, which eventually evolved into Dr. Felton's current position.

"Throughout her career, Claire emphasized professional nursing practices and always sought to advance progressive change, including taking the lead on Bryn Mawr Hospital's orthopedic expansion and initiating its neurointerventional and bariatric services," hospital President John Schwarz said in a March 26 news release. "She connected with people, listened and exuded respect for all patients, staff and visitors. Claire is the ideal choice."

Dr. Felton has been responsible for nursing operations at the 284-bed hospital since 2020. She joined its parent company, Radnor Township, Pa.-based Main Line Health, in 2009 as an administrative fellow. In addition to making history as the first endowed vice president at Bryn Mawr, Dr. Felton holds the first endowed nursing role in Main Line Health's enterprise.

The endowed position is funded by Elia Durr Buck, who with her husband, Jim, also established a chair at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia to research and treat bone marrow failure. Ms. Buck died in 2022.
The chief of Hospital Sisters Health System, which shuttered two Wisconsin hospitals on March 22, has opened up about the "difficult and heartbreaking" decision.

In a recent interview with the Catholic Health Association of the United States, HSHS President and CEO Damond Boatwright explained the hospitals' struggles and the eventual choice to end operations.

"Our situation in Western Wisconsin is a wake-up call about the crisis rural providers are facing in general and in particular what has been a reoccurring issue in Catholic health care, because historically we serve rural areas," Mr. Boatwright said.

In Wisconsin's Chippewa Valley region  home to HSHS' Chippewa Falls-based St. Joseph's Hospital and Eau Claire-based Sacred Heart Hospital, until recently  four different hospitals were vying for a dwindling patient population, according to Mr. Boatwright. For 115 years, Springfield, Ill.-based HSHS was the only one in the market, but over the past 25 years, there's been a surge in competition.

Though Mr. Boatwright did not directly name the competitors, Marshfield (Wis.) Clinic Health System and AdventHealth Durand (Wis.) operate hospitals in the market. Mayo Clinic Health System, based in Rochester, Minn., also runs a clinic offering specialty services in Chippewa Falls.

"We know how to compete," Mr. Boatwright said. "But there's a point where you're competing with 'enough resources' in an area versus a surplus of resources in an area."

He also noted that the region's Medicaid and Medicare patients were not evenly dispersed across the four hospitals. Sixty percent ended up at HSHS facilities, which contributed to their financial challenges.

The hospitals attempted to stay afloat with various measures: service mix changes, labor force rightsizing, and the implementation of their own insurance company (which ultimately failed because people wanted choice, per Mr. Boatwright). HSHS sought a partner to take over operations, but the one it identified eventually came to the same conclusion that there was no way to weather the market dynamic in Western Wisconsin.

The closure announcements affected the community similarly to the five stages of grief, Mr. Boatwright said. People were in denial and grew angry, and companies with financial interests in the hospitals attempted to negotiate a different outcome. But eventually, the community was able to process the decision and begin moving forward.

"I think that this truly is a wake-up call for many people about the rural health care network, that they really are in trouble and that there needs to be regulatory intervention in some cases, there needs to be financial support almost in every case and there needs to be more sympathy as well as empathy for the struggles that are impacting Catholic rural health care providers in particular," Mr. Boatwright said. "And let's not wait until you hear that they are closing to say we need to respond now and find a way to help these hospitals stay open."

Read the full Q&A here.
Orange, Calif.-based UCI Health has completed its acquisition of Tenet Healthcare's Pacific Coast Network, which includes four hospitals in Southern California and their associated outpatient locations.

As part of the agreement, Dallas-based Tenet's medical centers  Fountain Valley Regional Hospital, Lakewood Regional Medical Center, Los Alamitos Medical Center and Placentia-Linda Hospital  will now be part of UCI Health, according to a March 26 news release from UCI Health. The hospitals were sold for $975 million.

The acquisition, announced in February, adds 858 inpatient beds to UCI Health.
More than 2,300 healthcare workers at Ann Arbor-based University of Michigan Health, the clinical operation of Michigan Medicine, have joined the Service Employees International Union Healthcare Michigan.

The union announced the newly organized workers on March 26, saying that the workers won union recognition with SEIU Healthcare Michigan after a card check on March 18.

The National Labor Relations Board provides various paths to forming a union. According to the labor board's website, the NLRB will conduct an election if at least 30% of workers sign cards or a petition indicating their support for unionization. Workers would then vote on whether to unionize. Employers may also voluntarily recognize a union based on signed union-authorization cards or other evidence.

New union members at University of Michigan Health include patient care techs, phlebotomists and phlebotomist specialists, unit clerks, unit hosts, patient service assistants, patient services intermediate, patient services associates, and patient services senior, according to a union news release.

They will join 283 Michigan Medicine registered respiratory therapists and techs who previously organized with SEIU Healthcare Michigan last July, the union said.

"As a patient service associate, we play a vital part in our patients' recovery," Willie Griggs, a patient service associate at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital for five years, said in the release. "We make sure patients have a positive first interaction with the University of Michigan health system. I grew up in a union family in the auto industry and I saw the benefits and protections it provided them. A union at the University of Michigan gives us a voice to express our concerns and be heard in the workplace."

A spokesperson for Michigan Medicine told Becker's, "I don't have anything to add at this time."

SEIU Healthcare Michigan said it is continuing efforts to organize more than 2,000 additional workers at Michigan Medicine, including call center representatives, administrative assistants, associates, seniors and specialists, financial counselors, medical billing staff, and others in the patient service job family.
A teenager who posed as a physician assistant at two Texas hospitals was sentenced to five years in prison March 26, NBC affiliate KRIS 6 News reported.

In December 2022, Zachry Bailey pleaded guilty to forgery and practicing as a physician assistant without a license at Corpus Christi Medical Center Bay Area and Corpus Christi Medical Center Doctors Regional.

After Mr. Bailey violated the terms of his probation and accumulated additional felony convictions in Oklahoma, a Texas judge agreed to revoke his probation and sentence him to two concurrent five-year prison terms during a hearing this week.

Mr. Bailey has 30 days to appeal the decision.

Read the full article here.
Becker's reported on developments in two federal criminal cases related to spine care and business since Feb. 21.

Doron Tavlin, a former vice president of Mazor Robotics, was convicted by a federal jury for insider trading ahead of Mazor's acquisition by medical device company Medtronic. In 2018, Medtronic finalized the $1.6 billion acquisition of Mazor Robotics after making a series of investments over the span of two years. Mr. Tavlin is accused of engaging in an insider trading conspiracy with Afshin Farahan from 2018 to August 2020, according to the Justice Department.

A former pain clinic owner and a medical sales representative were sentenced for their role in a healthcare fraud scheme. David Lyle Shehi owned Etowah Pain in Rainbow City, Ala. There he was paid kickbacks in exchange for ordering nerve conduction tests from QBR, an electro-diagnostic testing company, that would be billed to Medicare and other health insurance programs according to the Justice Department. At his practice, Mr. Shehi routinely billed health insurance programs for patient visits using the code that would receive the highest reimbursement. Mr. Shehi was sentenced to 28 months for conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud. He was also ordered to pay forfeiture and restitution to his victims. James Ewing Ray, a medical sales representative who received kickbacks, was sentenced to 40 months for conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud. Mr. Ray was ordered to forfeit more than $850,000 and to pay restitution to victims of more than $5.3 million.
The Belfast Telegraph's Weekend magazine has been named regional supplement of the year at the annual Newspaper Awards in London.

The Newspaper Awards recognise excellence in the printed newspapers and the 2024 ceremony took place in the Hilton hotel on Tuesday. Weekend won the award jointly with Velvet, published by Iliffe Media in Suffolk.

Features editor at the Belfast Telegraph Aine Toner said: "Its a real testament to the efforts of all those involved with putting Weekend magazine together every week that we were named as joint winners of this award.

"From editorial and visuals, design, production and advertising, Weekend reflects the very best of Northern Ireland over a variety of topics and, of course, its a lot of fun to work on.

"Call me biased, but its a fantastic add-on to our already brilliant weekend content from the Belfast Telegraph," she said.

The award winners

Belfast Telegraph editor-in-chief Eoin Brannigan said: "Weekend magazine is a unique product in Northern Ireland and it is fantastic to see its consistency rewarded with this honour. It combines quality content and columnists with a great look and is a magazine we are very proud of.

Congratulations to our features team of Aine Toner, Gillian Halliday and Catriona Doherty and all who contribute to Weekend throughout the year."

The other supplements nominated were Cheshire Life, Oxfordshire Living and Yorkshire Life, all published by Newsquest, along with Shropshire Magazine, published by MNA Media.

Since the first year of the awards in 1997, over 12,000 newspaper executives from all of the major national, regional and weekly newspaper publishers have attended the awards together with sponsors, suppliers and industry influencers.

Interpress NI, which prints the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life, also secured the title of Regional Newspaper Printer of the Year award, while the Irish News claimed Regional Newspaper of the Year and the Impartial Reporter was named Weekly Newspaper of the Year.
A Belfast man allegedly tried to kill a woman with a hatchet he described as a Valentines gift, the High Court has heard.

Stephen Kennedy (42) is accused of inflicting deep wounds to her head during an attack at his apartment in the east of the city.

Kennedy denies a charge of attempted murder, claiming she came into contact with the axe by accident.

He was refused bail by a judge who described his version of events as risible.

Police and paramedics went to Kennedys flat on Montrose Street following a 999 call on February 29.

He stated the woman had sustained head injuries and was drifting in and out of consciousness after falling onto a hatchet in the property, the court heard.

When emergency services arrived at the scene Kennedy was standing outside the apartment block, bare chested and with blood smeared over his face, hands and back.

Officers found the alleged victim in a communal area with strike marks on her body and two deep, open wounds to her head.

They gave the impression of having been caused by a bladed weapon, a prosecution barrister said.

Significant amounts of blood were discovered in a lift, stairwell and on the corridor leading from Kennedys flat.

Further spatters and a bloodied mop and bucket were detected inside the apartment, where a washing machine was operating as part of an apparent clean-up attempt.

A small axe and scissors were located, alongside broken dentures and clumps of hair, counsel added.

Kennedy denied any intimate relationship with the woman, insisting she was just a friend staying with him while in Belfast for a hospital appointment.

He claimed she had knocked over furniture during an argument, causing the axe to flip into the air and strike her on its descent.

He said the hatchet was a gift from his partner on Valentines Day, the prosecutor submitted.

The alleged victim sustained a number of fractures to her head and required nine stitches for two laceration wounds.

According to her account, she had been in a relationship with Kennedy for two and a half years.

She also stated that a neighbour came out and spoke to her while she was crawling out of the front door of the apartment, the barrister said.

Kennedy faces a further charge of possessing an offensive weapon with intent to commit attempted murder.

Michael Boyd, defending, described his client as someone who keeps himself to himself.

He is adamant that he does not have a romantic relationship with the injured party, they have just been friends for 15 years, Mr Boyd added.

There has never been any issue between them, never mind anything remotely resembling what has been described.

Denying bail to Kennedy, Mr Justice Colton cited the risk of re-offending.

The judge said: He is entitled to the presumption of innocence, but the explanation put forward by him is risible.
A spill of water and crude oil in Houston's Sylvan Rodriguez Park has been contained and is being monitored by cleanup crews, an ExxonMobil representative said Wednesday. Yvette Orozco/Houston Chronicle A spill of water and crude oil in Houston's Sylvan Rodriguez Park has been contained and is being monitored by cleanup crews, an ExxonMobil representative said Wednesday. Yvette Orozco/Houston Chronicle

Correction (March 28, 12:40 p.m.): This article has been updated to reflect that the oil spill occurred outside Houston park property.

An oil spill that occurred this week near Houston's Sylvan Rodriguez Park has been contained and is being monitored by cleanup crews, an ExxonMobil representative said Wednesday.

An email from ExxonMobil stated that produced water containing crude oil, which comes out of wells during oil production, overflowed from a containment tank and overflow pit at a Denbury location, and the overflow is believed to be due to a power outage.

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Denbury, an oil and natural gas company, is a subsidiary of ExxonMobil, and a clean up crew at the site Wednesday was from Denbury.

We contained the oil and are working with emergency response crews to restore and monitor the area, an ExxonMobil spokesperson said in a statement. Our priority is the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

Clear Lake resident Emily Buckler said she'd noticed the cleanup effort in the park two days before.

I know that smell, and it smelled like oil, said Buckler, who worked for years at a Louisiana refinery and recognized the bright orange booms commonly used to soak up oil after a spill.

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There are no anticipated long-term impacts to the community or environment, according to ExxonMobil.

PUBLIC HEARING: Baytown residents slam Exxon over petrochemical facility operations at TCEQ hearing

Sylvan Rodriguez Park is located on Clear Lake City Boulevard. The waterway, which is located just south of the park property near the entrance, runs off Clear Creek and into Armand Bayou and Galveston Bay, and the nearest bayou is Horsepen Bayou.

According to a spokesperson for the City of Houston's Parks and Recreation Department, officials that department are planning to "inspect the park." Further information from the city was not immediately available.

Buckler, 67, lives in the Bay Point subdivision nearby and comes to the park every morning and said she had been reading complaints from other residents about a foul odor on a neighborhood website.

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When I came out here to the park and saw all this cleanup, I knew, she said. We come out here every day and sometimes twice a day and we want fresh air, but it wasnt fresh. The smell was really bad yesterday and the day before."

Crews from the Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, which conducts air monitoring and environmental consulting, were on hand Wednesday morning taking samples from the waterway, and a company spokesperson couldn't say how long the clean up would last.

Another park regular, Tim Hodges, 67, said he didnt notice a smell.

I didnt realize they were cleaning up because there has been a lot of construction here lately and I just assumed thats what they were doing, he said.

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Stormonts leaders have expressed hope that Northern Ireland will be belatedly added to a Westminster law aimed at quashing the wrongful convictions of subpostmasters caught up in the Horizon IT scandal.

First Minister Michelle ONeill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly were commenting after meeting with Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake in London on Tuesday.

Executive ministers had previously expressed disappointment that the Government had not widened its draft Bill to include Northern Ireland.

As it stands, the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill will exonerate those convicted in England and Wales on the basis of the faulty Horizon accounting software.

Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake met with Stormont leaders on Tuesday (PA)

Northern Ireland and Scotland were excluded from the initial Bill, with the Government having pledged to work with those devolved administrations to find ways for them to expunge wrongful convictions.

More than 700 subpostmasters in the UK were prosecuted by the Post Office and handed criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 as Fujitsus faulty Horizon IT system made it appear as though money was missing at their branches.

There are 26 affected subpostmasters in Northern Ireland.

Ms ONeill and Ms Little-Pengelly struck a positive note following the meeting with Mr Hollinrake. They met the minister after attending the East-West Council in London on Tuesday.

We have 26 subpostmasters who are caught up in this situation who have waited far too long for justice, who have waited far too long for compensation, and we have been consistently making the case that they need to be included in the legislation, said Ms ONeill.

I think we came away with a very positive feeling in terms of what can be done here, but theres a bit more to do. Were going to follow up on the meeting yesterday and were hopeful, although not to give false hope, were hopeful that perhaps this is something that we can actually find a solution to.

On the prospect of the Bill being amended to include Northern Ireland, Ms ONeill added: We hope that thats going to happen. I think were quite positive by the conversation that we had yesterday, but again, conscious not to give false hope, but we feel that with a continued little more bit of pushing that perhaps we can get to the right space in this.

Fujitsu has apologised to postmasters wrongfully convicted due to flaws in its Horizon IT software (AP)

Ms Little-Pengelly raised the prospect of a positive development within days.

This is an issue that we have prioritised, she said.

I know that our members of our Parliament as well over in London have been meeting and have been lobbying very hard on this issue and I think thats been really helpful.

Weve had a number of engagements now, with the Secretary of State (Chris Heaton Harris) and with the relevant minister. Thats why we did prioritise meeting minister Hollinrake yesterday after the East-West Council meeting, because we wanted to emphasise in person how important this is to us, but particularly to those 26 people that are caught up in this.

We want those people to get justice as quickly as others across the United Kingdom. And that can only be done by the inclusion in this legislation.

And thats what were pushing for. But, as the First Minister has indicated, we are very positive at this stage that things are moving in the right direction. We want that commitment from the minister and we will continue to push for that in hope of getting that in the next number of days.

She added: The UK Government is very clear where we stand on this, weve been absolutely determined, thats why we had the face-to-face meeting yesterday to emphasise that.

Weve been championing this issue on behalf of those 26 postmasters. And, of course, this can be done. We are fully confident that this can be done in terms of a legislative change.

We want that commitment from the minister, and well keep pushing that in hope of getting that commitment in the next number of days.

The ministers were speaking to the media on the issue during a visit to Lough Neagh on Wednesday.
A Newry man facing terrorist charges has had his bail varied to allow him to attend a childs birthday party.

The application to vary 40-year old Stephen Murneys bail was made at Belfast Crown Court.

Murney, from Derrybeg Terrace, Newry, has been charged with managing a meeting in support of a proscribed organisation between February 28 and April 11, 2023, and addressing a meeting for the purpose of supporting that organisation on April 10, 2023.

At a previous court hearing it was alleged that the charges related to the New IRA.

During todays application to vary bail, a defence barrister revealed this was to allow Murney to travel from his Newry home to attend a childs birthday party in Derry next week.

A Crown barrister told Judge Patrick McGurgan that police were objecting to this on several grounds.

These, he said, included the attendance at the same family party of a relative of Murney who is also facing terrorist charges.

The prosecutor added that if bail was granted, Murney needed to provide details of the journey he was going to take from Newry to Derry, as well as the make, model and registration of the vehicle in question.

Addressing the Crowns concerns about Murney being in his male relatives company, a defence barrister said any concerns that something nefarious would happen at a childs party were not grounded in evidence.

The defence barrister also pointed out that neither Murney nor the relative had any bail conditions imposed which banned them from being in each others company.

Judge McGurgan said that while he was not prepared to allow an overnight stay at the address in Derry on April 5, he was prepared to vary Murneys bail to allow him to attend the family event.

Conditions imposed by Judge McGurgan included allowing Murneys attendance between 1pm and 8.30pm and being back at his address in Newry by 11pm, where he should present himself to police if required.
The number of Ukrainians relying on State accommodation in Ireland is decreasing.

Following Russias invasion of Ukraine, the European Union triggered a temporary protection directive to offer assistance for those fleeing the war.

It places obligations on EU countries to give certain rights to the beneficiaries of temporary protection (BOTPs) including residence permits and access to suitable accommodation.

Ireland has granted more than 105,000 temporary protection orders since the war, and almost 72,000 BOTPs are in State-provided accommodation.

However, it is understood the average number of BOTPs leaving State accommodation now exceeds the number of temporary protection orders being granted to new arrivals.

While there remains a significant demand for State-provided accommodation, the portfolio needed by the Government to support Ukrainians is therefore decreasing.

The Government spends approximately 100 million euro per month in contracts for accommodating Ukrainians but it is expected that this figure will decrease as the property portfolio shrinks due to the decrease in arrivals and increase in exits.

The Department of Integration has also closed its portal for offers of housing to Ukrainians as it is not currently procuring any further commercial accommodation as part of this response.

The average daily number of people seeking protection under the temporary directive for Ukrainians has more than halved since before the Government announced in December that it would be limiting supports for new BOTPs.

The changes came into effect this month and do not apply to those who had already arrived.

Under the revised plan, Ukrainian refugees go to Designated Accommodation Centres for up to 90 days and are provided with food, laundry and integration support during this time.

They will be paid a 38.80 euro subsistence allowance per week and an additional 29.80 euro per child.

Arrivals had been entitled to a jobseekers allowance of 220 euro per week and unlimited time in State accommodation.

Approximately half of arrivals opt for State-provided accommodation. Those who do not are entitled to the full income supports.

It is understood there are approximately 3,000 vacant beds across the accommodation system for Ukrainians but around 40% of these are needed due to short-term moves of BOTPs due to compliance issues or contracts ending.

It is hoped that providers will agree to pivot approximately 500 beds for use by international protection applicants, which is separate from the temporary scheme for Ukrainians.
Micheal Martin said he has given legal staff in his department direction to pursue a legal intervention into the South African case at the ICJ (Grainne Ni Aodha/PA)

Ireland is to intervene in South Africas genocide case against Israel at the top court in the United Nations.

Micheal Martin, Irelands deputy leader, said that he had been told there is a basis for an intervention in the high-profile case.

A Declaration of Intervention is now being prepared for the Irish government to approve and will be filed once South Africa has filed its substantive case.

South Africa has taken a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing it of a genocide in Gaza.

Irelands intervention is expected to focus on prioritising the protection of civilians.

The intervention will not mean Ireland is stating Israel is committing genocide, which is a matter for the court to decide.

According to local health authorities, more than 30,000 people have been killed and a further 70,000 injured in the Gaza Strip since the start of Israels military offensive in the Palestinian enclave.

The UN said that a quarter of the regions 2.3 million population face starvation and around 80% have fled their homes.

The offensive was launched after a Hamas attack in southern Israel that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and saw around 250 hostages taken, some of whom are still held captive.

An interim ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza but stopped short of ordering a ceasefire.

It could be years before the case reaches a final judgment.

Speaking on Wednesday, Foreign Affairs minister Mr Martin said he has given legal staff in his department direction to pursue a legal intervention into the South African case at the ICJ.

He said that he requested that very serious legal work be done as the tests that are applied under the Genocide Convention are very narrow and have a very high threshold.

He said the issue would be brought back to government for a more formal decision when South Africa files its case and when further legal work is done.

I had asked my legal staff to do preliminary legal work, last week I was briefed by my legal team in that respect and we believe we have a basis now for an intervention, obviously more substantive work has to be done.

South Africa has yet to table its substantive memorial and that will be some months away yet.

He said involving a third party in an ICJ case is a rare and complex matter.

This will be Irelands fourth time getting involved in cases before the ICJ; it also intervened in the Ukraine vs Russia case.

Mr Martin said the rapidly deteriorating situation in Gaza was now a humanitarian catastrophe.

Clearly, aid is being prevented from going in, but the most vital essentials of life are being prevented from going into Gaza.

This constitutes significant harm and destruction to a people, and to the people of Gaza.

He added: As the UN Secretary General said as he inspected long lines of blocked relief trucks waiting to enter Gaza during his visit to Rafah at the weekend; it is time to truly flood Gaza with life-saving aid. The choice is clear: surge or starvation. I echo his words today.
Sir Bernard Jenkin has been cleared of wrongdoing by the Commons standards commissioner (House of Commons/PA)

Four Conservative MPs accused of attending a birthday drinks event in breach of lockdown rules have been cleared of wrongdoing by the Commons standards watchdog.

Complaints against Deputy Speaker Dame Eleanor Laing and Tory backbenchers Sir Bernard Jenkin, Miriam Cates and Virginia Crosbie were not upheld by Parliamentary Standards Commissioner Daniel Greenberg.

All four were alleged to have attended a gathering in Parliament on December 8 2020.

In a report, the commissioner said Sir Bernard, Ms Cates and Ms Crosbie did attend the event, while Dame Eleanor only briefly entered the room to check that social distancing arrangements were being observed.

But Mr Greenberg concluded they did not behave in a way that could seriously damage the reputation of the House or MPs generally, and therefore did not breach rules for MPs.

He said: Had this been entirely a business meeting, it would have been clearly in accordance with all restrictions and would have been reputationally unobjectionable.

Had it been entirely social, it would have been clearly in disregard of the restrictions at the time.

On the basis of the evidence, I am satisfied on the balance of probabilities that the event included both business and social elements.

Mr Greenberg added: I do not have evidence to justify a finding of breach of the Code of Conduct.

At the time, London was in Tier 2 Covid measures which restricted indoor socialising, although gatherings that were reasonably necessary for work purposes were permitted.

Boris Johnson accused Harwich and North Essex MP Sir Bernard of monstrous hypocrisy for allegedly attending the event before sitting on the cross-party Commons Privileges Committee which found that the former prime minister had lied to MPs with his partygate denials.

The complaint against Penistone and Stocksbridge MP Miriam Cates was not upheld by the Commons standards commissioner (Danny Lawson/PA)

The Metropolitan Police said in December that they were ending their investigation into the gathering, with no individuals receiving a penalty.

The force said officers assessed the available information and concluded it did not meet the threshold for the referral of any fixed penalty notices and that there would be no further action.

The standards commissioners report said Sir Bernards then-wife, peer Baroness Jenkin, sent an invitation to birthday drinks by WhatsApp to seven people, although it turned out to be a hybrid event held as part of a series of meetings organised by the Women2Win network of female Tory MPs.

Wine (probably not exceeding two bottles) and nibbles were available at the event, the commissioner said, while noting these was no birthday cake as some reports had suggested.

Dame Eleanor gave permission for the gathering to be held in her conference room on the assumption it was a Women2Win business meeting, according to the report.
Pc Sharon Beshenivsky was shot as she arrived at the raid in Morley Street, Bradford, in November 2005 (West Yorkshire Police/PA)

A jury has retired to consider verdicts in the trial of a man accused of murdering a police officer by planning the armed robbery in which she was killed.

Piran Ditta Khan is alleged to be the mastermind behind a raid at family-run Universal Express travel agents in November 2005.

Pc Sharon Beshenivsky, 38, was shot on her youngest daughters fourth birthday as she arrived at the robbery on Morley Street, Bradford. She died from her injuries.

Her colleague Pc Teresa Milburn was seriously injured after being shot by the gunman  one of three armed men who had just carried out the robbery and fled the scene with around 5,400 in cash.

Piran Ditta Khan, right, was appearing at Leeds Crown Court (Elizabeth Cook/PA)

Prosecutors claim Khan, 75, was the groups ringleader and played a pivotal role in planning the raid and giving instructions to the others.

They say this makes him guilty of Pc Beshenivskys murder as surely as if he had pulled the trigger himself.

Jurors have heard Khan was in a lookout car eating sandwiches with another of the robbers, Hassan Razzaq, while the raid was being carried out.

Prosecutors say he was the only one of the group who was familiar with Universal Express and had been using the business for years to transfer money to family in Pakistan.

Khan denies knowing that a robbery was going to be committed, or that weapons were going to be taken to Universal Express that day.

He has claimed the motive for the robbery was that the businesss owner, Mohammad Yousaf, owed him 12,000, and that debt collector Razzaq offered to get his money back when the pair met through a business associate.

Jurors at Leeds Crown Court have heard Khan was in a lookout car eating sandwiches while the raid was being carried out (Anna Gowthorpe/PA)

Khan told Leeds Crown Court he thought the men Razzaq sent would simply intimidate the staff or, at most, slap them.

The judge, Mr Justice Hilliard, told jurors the defendant would be guilty of murder if they were sure he intentionally encouraged the primary robbers to take part () and intended serious harm should be caused, if necessary, to carry out the robbery and escape with the proceeds.

He sent the jury out to consider its verdicts at just before 3.30pm on Wednesday.

The court has heard Khan is the last of the seven men involved in the robbery to face trial.

He flew to Pakistan two months after Pc Beshenivskys death and remained there before being arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2020 and extradited to the UK last year, jurors were told.

The other members of the group have been convicted of offences including murder, manslaughter, robbery and firearms offences.

Khan denies murder, two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and two counts of possession of a prohibited weapon.

He has pleaded guilty to robbery, telling his trial this was because the armed men had gone for his money and it was my mistake to tell them.
Leasehold reforms proposed by the Government have been branded an eviscerated shell of a bill (Victoria Jones/PA)

Leasehold reforms proposed by the Government have been branded an eviscerated shell of a bill that fails to deliver on Conservative election promises.

It comes as ministers face pressure to go further on the legislation, including ending the creation of so-called fleecehold estates, which have been called the next great scandal facing the housing market.

Leaseholds are a form of home ownership that gives the householders the right to live in a property for a fixed number of years but can also mean having to pay service charges to the freeholder, who owns the land.

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove has described the leasehold system as feudal (Lucy North/PA)

The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Bill has faced criticism in the House of Lords during peers first debate on the legislation because it fails to outlaw this housing system branded feudal by Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove.

While the Bill bans the sale of new leasehold houses, except in exceptional circumstances, it does not ban the sale of new leasehold flats, which make up 70% of properties affected.

Labours housing spokesperson Baroness Taylor of Stevenage said: From the original vision for the Bill, what we have before us today is a virtually eviscerated shell of a bill.

She added that it has little to give comfort to the people and families who had hoped to realise their dream of homeownership, and have found instead that being a leaseholder simply does not offer the security and control of their lives that their dream promised.

The frontbencher added: This Bill is a very long way from what leaseholders have been waiting and hoping for, and that is an end to the injustice of the anachronistic leasehold system.

Lady Taylor said the omission of a ban on new leasehold flats justifies her description of an eviscerated bill because it means the Bill simply wont do what it sets out to do.

Baroness Taylor has described the bill as being eviscerated as it simply wont do what it sets out to do (Nick Ansell/PA)

Former Chief of Staff to Boris Johnson in Downing Street Baroness Finn also pressed the Government to stick to its manifesto commitment of banning all leasehold homes.

She said: Boris Johnson secured a substantial majority just five years ago on a manifesto that included the promise to implement a ban on the sale of new leasehold homes.

The Government has sought to suggest that banning leasehold houses fulfils this promise. It does not, for the majority of leaseholders are in flats.

She added: I suggest that the Government takes the power to allow the Secretary of State to end all leaseholds on permitting here that it will only be commenced once the market was ready.

Meanwhile, 46 MPs have written to the Government calling for an end to fleecehold agreements, whereby people with freehold properties can be locked into contracts with private companies to maintain communal areas around them.

In a letter addressed to Mr Gove, the MPs  including two former housing ministers  highlighted problems with the unadopted, private estates model.

They called on the Government to go further to empower residents on existing Fleecehold estates, and to end this model for new estates.

Tory peer Lord Moylan, a former advisor to Boris Johnson when he was Mayor of London, said: I think this (fleecehold) is the next great scandal approaching the housing market.

It is in very large measure attributable to councils who are simply resiling from taking on their duties.

They will accept the additional council tax that is generated by the new properties but they will not take on the responsibilities for maintaining those common amenities.

Responding to fleecehold concerns, housing minister Baroness Scott of Bybrook said: It is up to the developers and the local planning authority to agree on specific issues relating to new development, including appropriate funding and maintenance arrangements.

She said the Government was carefully considering a report by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) into problems faced on such unadopted new-build estates.

As well as strengthening consumer protections, the regulator is also considering increasing the extent to which amenities are taken on by councils.

Earlier, Lady Scott told peers that the Bill would ban new leasehold houses other than in exceptional circumstances.

She added: Flats on the other hand have shared fabric and infrastructure and therefore require some form of arrangement to facilitate management and this has historically been facilitated by a lease.

Nonetheless the Government recognises the issues in the leasehold system and I have heard the concerns regarding a lack of commonhold measures as a meaningful alternative to replace leasehold for flats.

I want to reassure you that the Government remains committed to the commonhold reform and we see it as long-term replacement for leasehold.
The figures are at their highest ever levels (Alamy/PA)

Storm overflows dumped sewage into rivers and seas across England for more than 3.6 million hours in 2023, more than double the previous year, figures show.

The data published by the Environment Agency (EA) reveal there were 464,056 spills in 2023, up 54% from 301,091 in 2022, which the organisation said was partly due to England experiencing its sixth-wettest year on record.

The figures reveal the frequency and duration of spills from storm overflows, which dump untreated sewage into rivers and the sea, usually during heavy rainfall to stop sewers backing up, amid high levels of public concern and anger over the state of Englands waterways and beaches.

They were described as disappointing but sadly not surprising by the EA while campaigners said the scale of discharges was a final indictment of a failing industry.

(PA Graphics)

The duration of the sewage spills had more than doubled from 1,754,921 hours hours in 2022, to 3,606,170 hours in 2023, the figures show.

Both the frequency and duration of spills were also up on 2020 levels, which saw comparable amounts of rainfall.

And the figures are at their highest ever levels, although officials caution that comparisons over the years are difficult as an increasing number of storm overflows have been fitted with monitors over time, and all now have the technology to record spills.

Environment Agency director of water Helen Wakeham said the figures were disappointing but sadly not surprising.

We are pleased to see record investment from the water sector, but we know it will take time for this to be reflected in spill data  it is a complex issue that wont be solved overnight.

No other country has the level of monitoring we do, with 100% of storm overflows in England now fitted with a monitor.

We are better placed than ever before to hold water companies accountable  thanks to intelligence from our new whistleblower portal, our plans to expand our specialised workforce, new enforcement powers, increased water company inspections and new tools to inform our enforcement work, she said.

Water minister Robbie Moore said: I have been clear that sewage pollution in our waters is unacceptable, which is why in just the last few months we announced a consultation to ban water bosses bonuses when criminal breaches have occurred, quadrupled company inspections next year, fast-tracked 180 million investment to cut spills, launched a whistleblowing portal for water company workers to report breaches and will soon set out our plans to ban wet wipes containing plastic.

We demanded that 100% of overflows were monitored by the end of last year as part of our drive to improve transparency.

Todays data shows water companies must go further and faster to tackle storm overflows and clean up our precious waterways.

In response to the figures, a spokesperson for industry body Water UK said: These results are unacceptable and demonstrate exactly why we urgently need regulatory approval to upgrade our system so it can better cope with the weather.

We have a plan to sort this out by tripling investment which will cut spills by 40% by 2030  more than double the Governments target.

We now need the regulator Ofwat to give us the green light so that we can get on with it, they urged.

(PA Graphics)

The water companies say they want to triple investment to 10 billion over the period 2025-2030 to tackle the problem, which would be paid for through consumer bills.

But clean water campaigner Feargal Sharkey told BBC Radio 4s World At One programme: The truth is if anybody is going to be paying for this, any investment at this point needs to be made out of shareholders pockets and the public should not put another penny of their money, because we do not want to pay twice for something we have already paid for and didnt get.

James Wallace, chief executive of campaign group River Action, said: The scale of the discharges by water companies is a final indictment of a failing industry.

Having run amok with billpayers money for decades, they discharged untreated sewage into rivers and coastal waters more than 3.6 million hours last year from 464,000 spills through storm overflows that are supposed to be only used in extreme weather events.

Thats a 105% increase in the number of hours and a 54% increase on spills on the previous year.

He added: Rather than investing in future-proofing their infrastructure, fixing leaky pipes, upgrading wastewater treatment plants, these international businesses have plundered our most precious natural resource, fresh water.

He called for reform of environmental regulators and for failing water companies to be refinanced and restructured to put people above profits.

(PA Graphics)

Shadow environment secretary Steve Reed said water company bosses should not be allowed bonuses for this level of failure.

He told the PA news agency: Its absolutely disgusting to see record levels of raw sewage being pumped out into our lakes, rivers and waterways, and a Government standing back and doing absolutely nothing while this continues.

The figures also showed there were an average of 33 instances of sewage spills per storm overflow in England last year, up from 23 in 2022.

This is the second highest annual average since data began in 2016, with the highest being 35 spills per overflow in 2019.

The figures are for storm overflows where spill data is available, the Environment Agency said.
Court papers paint a picture of chemical attacker Abdul Ezedi as someone who was considered dishonest and deceitful but also described as pleasant and friendly.

Details from previously confidential legal documents, obtained on Tuesday by reporters who argued the disclosure was in the public interest, reveal more information than ever before about the sex offender.

The disclosure shines a light on Ezedis state of mind and movements in the years after he arrived in the UK and how he came to be granted asylum to stay in the country, despite his conviction.

The records outline how the Muslim entrenched himself in church life in Newcastle as he pursued a religious conversion to Christianity, and allude to him being arrested several years before he went on the run in January, aged 35, while wanted by police for dousing his ex-girlfriend with alkali in Clapham, south London. His body was pulled from the River Thames last month.

Court documents contained pictures of Abdul Ezedi (left) handing out church leaflets in the street (Judicial Office/PA)

Born on June 22 1988, Abdul Shokoor Ezedi told in one interview with Home Office officials how he grew up in rural Afghanistan, with no education or access to the internet, working as a mechanic for his father since he was a child. Even though he did not go to school his neighbour taught him to read and write, he said.

Ezedi, whose native language was documented as the Persian dialect Dari when he took part in court proceedings with an interpreter, arrived in the UK on January 8 2016 after he was apparently smuggled out of Afghanistan with his younger brother by an agent enlisted by his uncle.

But his initial asylum claim was refused by the Home Office, with an appeal later rejected by the courts the following year.

Documents show this came amid concerns about an inconsistent account of how his family had been terrorised in Afghanistan.

In a ruling dated February 8 2017, Judge Judith Gribble said: I could not reconcile the account that the entire family had been threatened and the appellant (Ezedi) and his mother had been injured in an attack on the home designed to harm all within, with his account that his parents were content to remain behind.

If the whole family had been at risk as initially claimed (and here again there is a difference between accounts) the whole family would have moved together to a safer place.

Abdul Ezedi was granted asylum despite his conviction (Metropolitan Police/PA)

The judge also said it was not credible that within four days of being seriously injured with multiple wounds, as he described, that he would be fit enough to endure a long car and lorry journey and periods of walking.

I am therefore not satisfied to the lower standard that the account the appellant has given is reasonably likely to be true, I therefore reject the account of his brother being in the Taliban, the letters being sent to his family and the account of how his claimed injuries occurred.

According to another document, Ezedi said his brother was shot outside a mosque on the same night that a grenade was thrown at the family home and that they suspected it was the Taliban because his brother, who had previously joined the group, had defected to the government.

But the account was rejected by government officials, because when he came to the UK he gave reason for coming as because he had heard British people were good people.

By contrast, other information tells how he lost contact with his brother in Greece having travelled through several countries after leaving Afghanistan.

But the Daily Mail reported that his younger brother Sebaghallah Ezedi  whose home in east London was raided in the manhunt  spoke out earlier this year urging him to give himself up to police.

Ezedi was handed a suspended sentence at Newcastle Crown Court on January 9 2018 after pleading guilty to charges of sexual assault and exposure, instead being placed on the sex offender register for 10 years and ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.

Just over a year later, on March 19 2019, he challenged the decision to deny him sanctuary in the UK again by lodging an appeal with the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber), arguing he feared persecution because of his religion.

The papers detail conflicting accounts of his original faith, stating in April 2016 and February 2017 that he was a Sunni Muslim, but later describing himself as a Shia Muslim in June 2019. He put the discrepancy down to a misunderstanding because he had lived in a majority Sunni area and had worshipped in a Sunni mosque.

Abdul Ezedi, left, being baptised (Judicial Office/PA)

Documents from his lawyer Susan Liew, the co-founder and director of Newcastle-based Collingwood Immigration Services, submitted to support his claim stated Ezedi began attending Grange Road Baptist Church in Jarrow in February 2016, did an Alpha course and was baptised by total immersion on June 24 2018.

But under questioning about his new-found faith, the Home Office said he had been unable to demonstrate a clear understanding of Christian principles and beliefs.

Ezedi told officials the Old Testament of the Bible was about Jesus and wrongly said Jacob was one of his disciples. When asked what was created on the third day, he answered: Good Friday and Easter Sunday and Resurrection day.

The Government department did not accept his conversion was genuine and long-lasting and described him as being prepared to deceive and use religion for his own ends, according to court records of its legal submissions.

Supportive letters from faith workers described him as a pleasant, friendly and co-operative man but documents also confirmed he made an agreement to be effectively escorted at church services due to his criminal conviction.

Handwritten notes contained in Home Office evidence detail how in an interview with an immigration official in Liverpool in June 2019 he said he had been on medication for depression, adding: Without realising I speak to myself. I talk to myself, I dont comprehend when people speak to me and I have memory problems.

Asked how the problems affected him, he said: Nothing seems to be going well with my life. I talk to myself I have bad thoughts. Sometimes I tell myself to end my life. Then I realise it is not the right thing to do.

He also told the interviewer he had previously been arrested in the UK, later clarifying he had been detained for a day.

It is unclear whether this is linked to his 2018 conviction, and Northumbria Police  when contacted by the PA news agency  refused to provide further details citing national police guidance which the force said prevents it from naming suspects arrested even after they die.

The court papers confirm his claim was granted after a hearing in Newcastle on October 28 2020 which lasted around an hour-and-a-half.

In a ruling dated November 10 of that year, Judge William OHanlon expressed concerns over Ezedis credibility and said he had not been honest in several aspects of his account. But he found Ezedis conversion to Christianity was genuine and granted his asylum appeal on the basis he would be in danger because of his faith if he returned to Afghanistan.

Collingwood Immigration Services declined to comment when contacted by PA.
Ariana DeBose will make it three in a row as host of theatres most watched event, the Tony Awards.

The Academy Award winner and Tony Award nominee, who hosted both the 2023 and 2022 ceremonies, will be back this year for the show on June 16, and will produce and choreograph the opening number.

I couldnt pass up the chance to host the Tonys one more time, at Lincoln Center. Im excited to collaborate with the team to create an incredible celebration of this seasons achievements on Broadway for our community and for everyone at home, said DeBose in a statement.

Ariana DeBose on stage at the Tony Awards last year at the United Palace Theatre in New York (Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)

DeBose was widely cheered for the way she hosted last year amid the Hollywood writers strike, leading a show that had no script and opening the telecast by dancing and leaping her way through the lobby of the United Palace Theatre.

She earned an Emmy nomination for her work.

DeBose is a theatre veteran, with roles in Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, Hamilton, A Bronx Tale, Pippin, Motown The Musical, Bring It On: The Musical and Company.

She won an Oscar for her role in Steven Spielbergs remake of West Side Story and was in Schmigadoon! on Apple TV+.

This years location  the David H Koch Theatre  is the home of New York City Ballet and in the same sprawling building complex as Lincoln Square Theatre, which houses the Broadway venue Beaumont Theatre.

Like last year, the three-hour main telecast will air on CBS and stream on Paramount+ from 8pm-11pm EDT/5pm-8pm PDT with a pre-show on Pluto TV, with some Tony Awards handed out there.

The Tony eligibility cut-off date for the 2023-2024 season is April 25, and nominations for the 2024 Tony Awards will be announced on April 30.

The awards are presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing.

Last year, the intimate, funny-sad musical Kimberly Akimbo took the best new musical crown, and Tom Stoppards Leopoldstadt, which explores Jewish identity with an intergenerational story, won best play.

Sean Hayes won lead actor in a play for Good Night, Oscar, and Victoria Clark won for Kimberly Akimbo.
A bald eagle is seen near its nest by Lake Woodlands in 2018 in The Woodlands. Montgomery County game wardens are investigating a report that someone shot and killed a bald eagle on Lake Conroe. Jason Fochtman/Houston Chronicle The nesting season bald eagles in Texas can last for months as the birds lay their eggs during the winter. Montgomery County game wardens are investigating a report that someone shot and killed a bald eagle on Lake Conroe. Steve Gonzales/Staff photographer

Montgomery County game wardens are investigating a report that someone shot and killed a bald eagle on Lake Conroe.

Game Warden Brannon Meinkowsky said it was reported Saturday that someone had a bald eagle in a boat but as of Monday, game wardens had not been able to confirm the report. `

Meinkowsky said if a person is identified for shooting a bald eagle, the case would be turned over to federal officials.

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According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, a violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act could result in a $100,000 fine, one year in prison or both. A second offense of the act is a felony.

Meinkowsky said this would not be the first time a bald eagle has been killed in Montgomery County.

LIBRARIANS POWER STRIPPED: New panel, not librarians, to decide which books children can access in Montgomery County libraries

It has happened before but it is pretty rare, Meinkowsky said. They are becoming more common in the area. Twenty years ago it was rare but now it is almost common to see one.

Lake Conroe has long been a place to see bald eagles.

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According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, bald eagles typically lay between one and three eggs and hatching takes place in January. Young eagles generally leave the nest in 10 to 12 weeks. The adults may feed them for up to six weeks while the young learn to hunt. About 70% of the eagles that hatch survive their first year of life.

Eagles are believed to be monogamous breeding pairs for life. They can live up to 20 years in the wild.

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act was enacted in 1940. In 1978 the bald eagle become an endangered species.

According to federal officials, habitat destruction and degradation, illegal shooting, and the contamination of its food source decimated the eagle population. Habitat protection spurred by the Endangered Species Act and conservation actions taken by the American public have helped bald eagles recover remarkably.

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Bald eagles were removed from the endangered species list in August 2007 because their populations recovered sufficiently.
Government will pay for reconstruction pledge as eight still missing in disaster

The scene after a container ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. (Kaitlin Newman/The Baltimore Banner via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with it on Tuesday. (WJLA via AP)

The cargo ship is stuck under part of the structure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore after Tuesday's disaster. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

US President Joe Biden has vowed to use federal government resources to quickly rebuild Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge and reopen the Port of Baltimore after a container ship struck the bridge, destroying it in a matter of seconds and plunging it into the river in a terrifying collapse.

Speaking from the Roosevelt Room just before departing the White House for a campaign swing through North Carolina, Mr Biden praised emergency responders.

The president said he and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg are sending the Maryland officials all the federal resources they need as we respond to this emergency and promised that they would rebuild that port together.

Were incredibly grateful for the brave rescuers who immediately rushed to the sea and to the people of Baltimore, he said.

Were with you, were going to stay with you as long as it takes.

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with it on Tuesday. (WJLA via AP)

His comments came just under 12 hours after the Singaporean-flagged cargo carrier Dali lost power and issued a distress call saying that the massive vessel had lost the ability to manoeuvre after departing the Port of Baltimore at approximately 1am ET.

The container ship slammed into one of the bridges support piers, causing a progressive collapse as the 50-year-old structure tumbled into the Patapsco River  a shocking spectacle that was captured on video and posted on social media. The vessel caught fire and thick, black smoke billowed out of it.

The crash happened long before the busy morning commute in what one official called a developing mass casualty event.

Shocking footage shows the moment ship hits bridge

Two people were pulled from the water.

Mr Biden said the evidence available to federal authorities has given them no reason to consider the collision and resulting collapse anything except a terrible accident and praised the ships crew for promptly alerting Maryland Department of Transportation personnel when they lost control of the container carrier.

Citing officials at the scene, the president said approximately eight people remain unaccounted for at this time, though he conceded that the number of missing may change.

Earlier, six people had been reported missing.

Read more What we know about the Baltimore bridge collapse

Mr Biden also pointed out that the Port of Baltimore will have to remain closed during search and rescue efforts.

He said the shipping channel would need to be cleared of wreckage before any traffic could pass through what he called one of the nations largest shipping hubs  a port that handles approximately 850,000 vehicle imports each year and supports 15,000 jobs.

It handled a record of cargo last year. Its also the top port in America both imports and exports of automobiles and light trucks... were going to do everything we can to protect those jobs and help those workers, Mr Biden said, adding that the now-collapsed bridge was critical for travel for the entire northeast corridor region, carrying approximately 30,000 vehicles per day.

Watch: 3km bridge collapses after it was hit by ship in US

Im directing my team to move heaven and earth to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge as soon as humanly possible, he said.

Mr Biden also said he and Maryland authorities would work with our partners in Congress to ensure that the Old Line State gets the support it needs but he vowed that the federal government would pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge.

Though the president conceded that reconstruction would take some time, he said he expects Congress to support rebuilding efforts and promised that the people of Baltimore could count on us so to stick with them at every step of the way, until the port is reopened and the bridge is rebuilt.

Were not leaving until this job gets done, he said.

Brandon Scott, mayor of Baltimore said: Never would you think that you would see, physically see, the Key Bridge tumble down like that.

It looked like something out of an action movie, Mr Scott said, calling it an unthinkable tragedy.

The scene after a container ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. (Kaitlin Newman/The Baltimore Banner via AP)

Authorities said a crew of unknown size was working on the bridge at the time of the collapse and that sonar had detected cars in the water, which is about 50ft (15m) deep.

Several vehicles were on the bridge, including one the size of a tractor-trailer truck, according to Kevin Cartwright, director of communications for the Baltimore Fire Department.

From a vantage point near the entrance to the bridge, jagged remnants of its steel frame were visible protruding from the water, with the on-ramp ending abruptly where the span once began.

Mr Cartwright said that some cargo appeared to be dangling from the bridge, which spans the Patapsco River at the entrance to a busy harbour.

He said that as many as 20 people could be in the river along with numerous vehicles, and possibly a tractor-trailer or a vehicle as large as a tractor-trailer, (that) went into the river.

This is a mass-casualty, multi-agency event, he said.

This operation is going to extend for many days.

The temperature in the water was about 8C at the time of the collapse.

Synergy Marine Group  which manages the Dali  confirmed the vessel hit a pillar of the bridge at about 1.30am local time while it was in control of two pilots, local specialists who help navigate vessels safely into ports. The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd.

It said all crew members, including the pilots, were accounted for and there were no reports of any injuries.

The Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic.

The container ship is about 985ft (300m) long and about 157ft (48m) wide, according to the website.

Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel, which was carrying its customers cargo, though no Maersk crew and personnel were on board.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it. Pic: WJLA via AP

A container ship was only minutes into its planned 27-day journey when it rammed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, yesterday morning, sending the bridge and several people into the Patapsco River.

The Singaporean ship called the Dali was docked in Baltimore on Saturday in preparation for its trip to Colombo, Sri Lanka, according to Vessel Finder.

Carrying Maersk cargo, the nearly 1,000-foot-long (300 metre) container ship was expected to arrive in Sri Lanka on April 22.

But around 1.30am ET yesterday, the ship hit the bridge causing it to collapse as construction workers were working on the bridge.

Shocking footage shows the moment ship hits bridge

Investigators are looking into the incident while a rescue mission is underway to find the individuals who are believed to have been flung into the river.

Built in 2015, the Dali is currently operated by Synergy Group, a ship-managing company with more than 660 vessels under its technical management.

According to a press release from Synergy, the Dali is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd.

Before yesterdays incident, the Dali spent the last month traveling from Panama to New York.

The vessel was chartered by Maersk to carry Maersks customers cargo from Baltimore to Colombo in a nearly month-long journey, according to a statement from the company.

Under the pilotage of two pilots, the Dali departed from Baltimore around 1am local time.

With wind speeds of 6.2 knots (7.2 miles per hour), the ship travelled at 7.9 kn (9 mph) for approximately 30 minutes.

Just minutes into the journey, the ship made a mayday call as it lost power. It then hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

All the crew members, including the two pilots, have been accounted for and there are no reports of any injuries onboard, according to the Synergy Group.

Maersk said none of its crew or personnel were on board the vessel when the incident occurred.

However, at least seven people, believed to be construction workers, who were on the bridge fell into the water. Six are still missing.

We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected, Maersk said in a statement.
Recovery efforts have resumed over six construction workers who are presumed dead after a cargo ship hit a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, causing the structure to collapse.

The collision occurred in the early hours of Tuesday after the ship lost its steering capability before it hit a pillar of the US citys Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Audio from first responders reveals a scramble to halt traffic just before the crash.

The bridge is an important link in the regions transportation infrastructure, and its collapse is expected to snarl commuter traffic and disrupt a vital shipping port for some time.

Six people are feared dead (AP)

Within 90 seconds of a dispatchers 12-second warning over the radio on Tuesday, police officers responded that they had managed to stop vehicle traffic over the Baltimore bridge in both directions. One said he was about to drive onto the bridge to alert a construction crew.

But it was too late. Powerless and laden with huge containers, the vessel smashed into a support pillar.

The whole bridge just fell down, a frantic officer said. Start, start whoever, everybody  the whole bridge just collapsed.

When the container ship Dali slammed into the pillar at around 1.30am on Tuesday (5.30am GMT), it caused a long span of the bridge, a major link in the regions transport networks, to crumple into the Patapsco River.

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At least eight people went into the water. Two were rescued but the other six, part of a construction crew that had been filling potholes on the bridge, are missing and presumed dead.

A search for their bodies was under way on Wednesday morning, according to Maryland State Police spokesperson Elena Russo.

Among the missing were people from Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, according to diplomats from those countries. The Honduran man was identified as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova.

Federal and state officials said the crash appeared to be an accident. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, and ship traffic entering and leaving the Port of Baltimore has been suspended indefinitely.

Capt Michael Burns Jr of the Maritime Centre for Responsible Energy said bringing a ship into or out of ports in restricted waters with limited room to manoeuvre is one of the most technically challenging and demanding things that we do.

Two people were rescued from the water (AP)

So there really is few things that are scarier than a loss of power in restricted waters, he said.

And when a ship loses propulsion and steering, then its really at the mercy of the wind and the current.

Video showed the ship moving at what Maryland governor Wes Moore said was about 9mph toward the 1.6-mile bridge. Traffic was still moving across the span, and some vehicles appeared to escape disaster with only seconds to spare.

The crash caused the span to break and fall into the water within seconds, and jagged remnants were left jutting up from the water.

Police said there is no evidence anyone went into the water other than the workers, though they had not discounted the possibility.

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A senior executive at the company that employed the crew, Brawner Builders, said they were working in the middle of the bridge when it fell.

This was so completely unforeseen, said Jeffrey Pritzker, the companys executive vice president. We dont know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers.

The crash happened long before the busy morning commute on the bridge, which was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said it was too soon to give a time frame for clearing the channel, which is about 50 feet deep, while President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore soon and expects the federal government to pay the entire cost of rebuilding.

Synergy Marine Group, which manages the ship, said the impact happened while it was under the control of one or more pilots, who are local specialists who help guide vessels safely in and out of ports.

Inquiries are under way into the tragedy (AP)

The firm said one crew member was treated at a hospital for a minor injury.

The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd, and Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

The 985ft Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott called it an unthinkable tragedy. Governor Mr Moore said that all of our hearts are broken for the victims and their families, and he also hailed first responders for their quick response.

Literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, these people are heroes, Mr Moore said. They saved lives last night.
Martin McGuinness, the CIA, Mossad and the extraordinary 50-year disappearance of a compromising film

An American academic who had worked for US intelligence was given unprecedented access by the IRA in 1972  and brought along an Israeli Nazi-hunter whose son believes he may have been part of a conspiracy

Martin McGuinness, the CIA, Mossad and the extraordinary 50-year disappearance of a compromising film

Sam McBride Wed 27 Mar 2024 at 22:50

An astonishing story involving the CIA, Mossad, and the disappearance of a compromising film for half a century raises fresh questions about why Martin McGuinness evaded a long jail term.
A Rohingya refugee looks out of a National Search and Rescue Agency (BASARNAS) vessel after he and many other refugees were rescued from their capsized boat in waters off the coast of Aceh, Indonesia, March 21, 2024

For the second time in three months, a belligerent and resentful crowd of locals in Indonesias Aceh province made authorities move dozens of newly arrived Rohingya refugees from their shelter by storming the facility, officials said Wednesday.

After their boat had capsized near West Aceh regency last week, following a long journey from Bangladesh, the 75 traumatized Rohingya were placed in the temporary shelter in the village of Suak Nie. They seemed scared and sobbed, as seen in a widely circulated video, before officials led them to a vehicle to relocate them.

Villagers from Suak Nie said they were protesting because the local government had not moved the Rohingya away after five days as promised, said Mawardi, the West Aceh Regional Police spokesperson.

A human rights group official said fake news and misinformation starting around October had fueled locals resentment against the Rohingya, who are a persecuted Muslim minority from Myanmar.

People held a demonstration because they received information from the local government that the Rohingya would only be sheltered for five days, but [their stay] had already exceeded that limit, Mawardi, who goes by a single name, told BenarNews.

The temporary move was for the refugees safety, said Muhammad Hidayat Isa, communications head for West Aceh regency.

The refugees have been moved to the backyard of the West Aceh regents office complex to avoid unnecessary unrest, Hidayat told BenarNews.

An official from the United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, also confirmed the incident that took place in West Aceh and the events in the video, which were shared widely on social media.

Yes, the expulsion [from the temporary shelter] really happened as circulated on social media, Faisal Rahman, a protection associate at UNHCR, told BenarNews.

The stateless Rohingya have been fleeing violence and oppression in their homeland in Myanmar for years.

Followng a 2017 military offensive in Myanmars Rakhine state that the U.N. described as a textbook example of ethnic cleansing, about 740,000 Rohingya fled across the border to Bangladesh.

Usually, many Rohingya refugees who end up in Indonesia have left the Coxs Bazar camps in southwestern Bangladesh seeking a better life in Muslim-majority countries in Southeast Asia.

Aceh, at the westernmost tip of Sumatra island, is a semi-autonomous and religiously conservative province.

A newly arrived Rohingya refugee draws water from a well at the Indonesian Red Cross building, a temporary shelter in Suak Nie village, West Aceh, Aceh province, Indonesia, March 22, 2024. [Zahlul Akbar/AFP]

The 75 refugees rescued from the sea last week had been housed in an Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) building in Suak Nie, which lies in Johan Pahlawan district, Faisal said.

According to Ali, a resident of the village and a participant in Tuesdays actions, UNHCR and the local government had made no efforts to move the Rohingya despite promising the villagers they would be there for only five days.

More than five days had passed, Ali, who wanted to be identified by only one name for security reasons, told state news agency Antara.

Want [them] to be moved to the regents hall or regents office, please; the important thing is that there are no more Rohingya refugees in our village, Antara quoted Ali as saying on Tuesday.

This latest batch of refugees had arrived from refugee camps in Bangladesh in a wooden boat that capsized at sea near Meulaboh city, in West Aceh regency, on March 20.

On that day, rescue officials could only bring ashore six passengers, but the next day the search team rescued 69 additional Rohingya who had been clinging to their wooden boat.

Survivors claimed the boat was carrying around 150 passengers, with UNHCR officials saying they feared more than 70 Rohingya may be missing or dead. Over the weekend and on Monday, the bodies of 11 Rohingya were found at sea not far from where the boat overturned.

This incident occurred amid the increasing arrival of Rohingya refugee boats in Indonesia, starting last October.

In 2023 alone, more than 2,300 Rohingya refugees had arrived in Indonesia, according to the UNHCR and the International Organization for Migration.

They have been accommodated in locations across Aceh, UNHCR said.

A Rohingya refugee receives medical treatment at a temporary shelter in Suak Nie village, West Aceh, Aceh province, Indonesia, on March 22, 2024. [Zahlul Akbar/AFP]

Azharul Husna, a coordinator at of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS Aceh), condemned the actions of residents forcibly evicting Rohingya refugees.

She said the latest incident and a similar one in January resulted from a steady and deliberate spread of false information about the Rohingya on social media  such as they were living a tad too comfortably in refugee camps, were becoming colonizers, and were involved in sexually harassing locals.

This has created a stigma against Rohingya refugees, Husna told BenarNews.

As a society that has gone through the experience of the longest war, the biggest tsunami disaster and enjoyed the abundant love of the worlds citizens, arent we the ones who understand and can best feel the pain of the Rohingya people?

Nurdin Hasan in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, contributed to this article.
Losing Indonesian presidential candidate Anies Baswedan (right) talks to journalists as his running mate Muhaimin Iskandar listens, upon their arrival for a Constitutional Court hearing in Jakarta on their appeal of the presidential election results, March 27, 2024.

Indonesias Constitutional Court on Wednesday began hearing challenges to the results of last months general election by the two losing presidential candidates, who are urging it to disqualify winner Prabowo Subianto and call for a new vote.

Both the challengers presented their case in person, with Anies Baswedan telling the court the election wasnt fair or just, and Ganjar Pranowo alleging abuse of power in the run-up to the polls.

Last week, the General Elections Commission (KPU) certified that Prabowo, the defense minister who is the former son-in-law of the late Indonesian dictator Suharto, had won the presidential election in Southeast Asias largest country by a wide margin. The court is expected to deliver its verdict by April 22.

Presenting his appeal first, Anies highlighted instances of alleged fraud tied to the Feb. 14 vote.

We have observed irregularities such as the misuse of state institutions to favor one candidate, said Anies, the former governor of Jakarta who appeared in court with his running mate, Muhaimin Iskandar.

Anies noted the misuse of social aid (Bansos), originally intended for public welfare, being exploited for political gains.

Did the 2024 presidential election adhere to principles of freedom, honesty, and justice? The answer is no. What occurred was quite the opposite, he said.

Chief Justice Suhartoyo and seven other judges heard the complaint while Judge Anwar Usman, who is President Joko Jokowi Widodos relative by marriage, did not.

Anwar was demoted from chief justice in November 2023 because of ethics breaches related to his decision to alter the age criteria for presidential and vice presidential candidates. The decision paved the way for Jokowis eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to run for vice president on Prabowos ticket.

While Anwar was allowed to remain on the bench, he was barred from hearing any election dispute proceedings.

The 2024 presidential election saw the Prabowo team receive 58.6% of the votes, compared to 24.9% for Anies and 16.5% for Ganjar, according to final totals from the KPU.

Representing Anies and Muhaimin, lawyer Bambang Widjojanto submitted a petition to the court urging it to annul the election commissions certification.

The methods employed by President Jokowi to bolster candidate pair 02 (Prabowo-Gibran) resulted in numerous procedural infractions that impacted the elections fairness, Bambang told the judges.

He specifically highlighted procedural irregularities, including the alleged widespread appointment of local officials aimed at influencing voters choices.

Bambangs team members also claimed to have uncovered nearly 500,000 manipulated voter lists in Central Java province  Ganjars stronghold  instances of ballot papers pre-marked for candidate number two across several regions and polling stations in Malaysia, as well as instances of decreased votes for Anies in certain areas.

Ganjars turn

During the afternoon session, Ganjar said his legal challenge was crucial to democracy in Indonesia.

Our lawsuit is a commitment to maintaining sanity, ensuring that our citizens do not lose hope in our political journey, said Ganjar, the ex-governor of Central Java, while highlighting how the intimidation had dampened the reformist spirit.

We refuse to regress to a pre-reform era. We reject any betrayal of the reformist ideals, he said, referring to the New Order rule of President Suharto that ended with his fall from power in May 1998.

Prabowo, who is to take office in October, is a former Indonesian army special forces commander accused of having committed human rights abuses during Suhartos dictatorship.

Ganjars lawyers also urged the court to nullify the election results and disqualify Prabowo and Gibran.

Ganjar Pranowo (right) talks with his lawyer, Todung Mulya Lubis, during the first day of a Constitutional Court hearing on his challenge of the Feb. 14 Indonesian presidential election, in Jakarta, March 27, 2024. [Achmad Ibrahim/AP]

Ganjar lawyer Todung Mulya Lubis said he was optimistic that the court would closely look at the election process involving everything from its early stages to the vote itself rather than only focusing on the tally.

The esteemed judges at the Constitutional Court carry the responsibility as guardians of the Constitution to ensure the integrity of general elections, Todung said.

Its evident that the registration and selection of candidate pair number two violates legal and ethical standards, is flawed in procedure, and should be revoked.

Prabowo: No concrete proof

Yusril Ihza Mahendra, the lead lawyer representing Prabowo and Gibran, criticized the challenges for lacking substantial evidence.

We believe these lawsuits are filled with stories, assumptions, and theories, rather than concrete proof, Yusril said after the hearing, noting his team would not be challenged in counter claims made in court.

The court must resolve disputes within 14 working days after the lawsuit is officially filed. Anies and Muhaimin filed their challenge on March 21, while Ganjar and his running mate, Mohammad Mahfud MD, submitted theirs two days later.

Fadli Ramadhanil, program manager at the Association for Elections and Democracy, said the requests to disqualify Prabowo and Gibran could be a longshot.

Its going to be tough because the nomination process has already concluded, Fadli told BenarNews.

Fadli said Anies and Ganjars legal teams should instead focus on demonstrating how Gibrans candidacy impacted the election. This includes examining the involvement of Jokowi, ministers, village officials or social assistance programs that could have favored Gibrans team.

If they can pinpoint where and how this influence affected voters, it could significantly sway the decisions of the Constitutional Court judges, he said.

Juhaidy Rizaldy, executive director of the Indonesian Law and Democracy Studies, noted that the Constitutional Courts jurisdiction mainly covers result disputes only.

The election process falls under the authority of Bawaslu or PTUN (State Administrative Court), Juhaidy told BenarNews. Therefore, the outcome will likely resemble the general election results disputes from previous elections.

Ahmad Khoirul Umam, a political observer from Paramadina University, expressed skepticism about the court ruling against Prabowos team.

The odds are slim, as they need to prove widespread, structured, and systematic fraud across 50% of Indonesias provinces. Thats a challenging task, he told BenarNews.
Christopher Preciado, 19, center, is arrested on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024, by the San Antonio Police Department in connection to the fatal shootings of pregnant teen Savanah Soto and her boyfriend, Matthew Guerra. Christopher will be charged with capital murder. His father Ramon Preciado, 53, was also arrested and charged with abuse of a corpse, according to SAPD Sgt. Washington Moscoso. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Savanah Soto, 18, and her boyfriend Matthew Guerra, 22, disappeared shortly before Christmas. Christopher Preciado, 19, has been indicted on capital murder charges in their deaths. Courtesy photo Raviana Covarrubias, cousin of Savanah Soto, places candles and flowers around a growing memorial honoring Soto and her unborn child Fabian during a vigil at Kenwood Park on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, in San Antonio, Texas. Soto, who had been missing since last Friday, and her boyfriend, Matthew Guerra, 22, were found dead inside a car at an apartment complex on the Northwest Side on Tuesday afternoon. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Nineteen-year old Christopher Preciado has been indicted on charges of capital murder in the deaths of Savanah Soto, 18, Matthew Guerra, 22, and their unborn baby. TNS Ramon Preciado, 53, is charged with helping his son Christopher, 19, dispose of the bodies of Savanah Soto, 18, and her boyfriend, Matthew Guerra, 22. TNS Myrta Romanos, arrested in connection to the Capital Murder case of Savanah Soto and Matthew Guerra. Courtesy of SAPD Myrta Romanos is charged with helping her stepson Christopher, 19, dispose of the bodies of Savanah Soto, 18, and her boyfriend, Matthew Guerra, 22. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News The words "Baby Killer" are spray painted on a car in the driveway of a home in the 5600 block of Charlie Chan Drive where Ramon and Christopher Preciado were arrested by San Antonio police in the deaths of Savannah Soto and Matthew Guerra. People have been leaving candles and other keepsakes ever since police said the couple was killed at the home and their bodies were left elsewhere. Jacob Beltra Ramon Preciado, 53, is arrested on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024, by the San Antonio Police Department in connection to the fatal shootings of pregnant teen Savanah Soto and her boyfriend, Matthew Guerra. His son, Christopher Preciado, 19, was also arrested and charged with capital murder, while Ramon was charged with abuse of a corpse, according to SAPD Sgt. Washington Moscoso. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News Family member Brenda Lara takes a moment of silence at a memorial for Savanah Soto, 18, and her unborn baby Fabian during a vigil at Kenwood Park on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023 in San Antonio. Savanah Soto, 18, who was found dead alongside her boyfriend, Matthew Guerra, 22, on Tuesday. Salgu Wissmath/San Antonio Express-News Myrta Romanos is escorted Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in San Antonio by San Antonio police officers to a police car after she was arrested on charges related to the slayings of Savanah Soto and Matthew Guerra. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News

A San Antonio man and his parents have been indicted in connection with the Christmas-season killings of pregnant teenager Savanah Soto, her boyfriend and their unborn baby.

A Bexar County grand jury charged Christopher Preciado, 19, with capital murder-multiple persons, capital murder-child under 10 and capital murder-underlying robbery.

RELATED: A timeline of the killings of Savanah Soto and Matthew Guerra

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He is accused of shooting to death Soto, 18, and her 22-year-old boyfriend, Matthew Guerra, and of killing their unborn son, Fabian.

Wednesdays indictment also charged Preciado with three counts of tampering with a human corpse, four counts of tampering with evidence and three counts of abuse of a corpse, according to the Bexar County District Attorneys Office.

Preciados father, Ramon, 53, and his mother, Myrta Romanos, 47, were charged with multiple counts of altering, destroying or concealing human remains, abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence.

The three defendants lived in a home in the 5000 block of Charlie Chan Drive on the Northwest Side, a few blocks from where the bodies of Soto and Guerra were found Dec. 26, each shot in the head. They had been missing for days.

Police said Christopher Preciado killed Soto and Guerra when a drug deal went bad and that his parents helped him dispose of the bodies.

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Preciado and his parents have a court hearing scheduled for April 16 before state District Judge Jennifer Pena. All have been jailed since their arrests. The son is being held without bail, and his parents have been unable to make bail.

Imminent danger

Soto grew up on the West Side and began dating Guerra when she was a sophomore at Holmes High School.

She was last seen in Guerras car, a gray 2013 Kia Optima, around 2 p.m. Dec. 22 at a Leon Valley apartment complex where she and Guerra lived.

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Soto was about to give birth, scheduled to go to a hospital Dec. 23 so doctors could induce labor. Her family grew frantic when she failed to show up and calls to her cellphone went unanswered.

On Christmas Day, the Texas Department of Public Safety issued a missing persons alert for Soto, saying she was believed to be in imminent danger. The next day, she and Guerra were found dead in his Kia at the Colinas at Medical Apartments on the Northwest Side, about 3 miles from where Soto was last seen.

On Dec. 28, the San Antonio Police Department made public a security video that showed Guerras Kia and a black pickup pulling up side by side in a parking lot at the apartment complex. A heavyset man could be seen getting out of the pickup and talking to someone in Guerras car. He then took a white towel and wiped the car door before they both drove off.

Police asked for the publics help in identifying the people in the video. They said later that Ramon Preciado was the driver of the truck and that his son was in the Kia with the victims bodies. Investigators believe Soto and Guerra were killed elsewhere and that the Kia was driven to the apartments and abandoned there.

Police arrested Christopher Preciado and his father Jan. 3, charging the son with capital murder and his father with abuse of a corpse and concealing human remains. A week later, Romanos was taken into custody.

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Wednesdays indictment charges Christopher Preciado with three types of capital murder because he is accused of slaying more than one person, killing a child under age 10 and doing so during the commission of another felony, a robbery. All three are aggravating factors that elevate a murder charge to capital murder under the Texas Penal Code.

We commend the members of the local law enforcement community who jointly investigated the case and thank them for their diligence and effort, District Attorney Joe Gonzales said in a news release Wednesday. Now, it is our offices turn to uphold justice for the victims.

Continuing threat

Tampering with evidence is a third-degree felony punishable by two to 10 years in prison, and abuse of a corpse is a state jail felony punishable by up to two years in a state jail facility.

Capital murder is punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole or by death. The DAs office has not said whether it will seek the death penalty in this case.

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A capital crimes committee of senior prosecutors weighs the circumstances of potential death penalty cases. The wishes of the victims family are considered. Then the panel votes. Gonzales, who established the committee after taking office in 2019, has the final say.

If a jury convicts a defendant of capital murder in a case where the prosecution is seeking the death penalty, jurors then must decide two special issues: whether the defendant represents a continuing threat to society and whether there are mitigating circumstances that warrant a life prison term instead.

A person can be sentenced to death only if the jury answers yes to the first question and no to the second.

The district attorneys office had 90 days from the date of the family members arrests to obtain an indictment. If it failed to do so, the defendants could have been eligible for a bail reduction or even release on their own recognizance.
A U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane boarding team and Vanuatu fisheries and maritime police officials start an inspection on a fishing vessel in Vanuatus exclusive economic zone in the South Pacific Ocean on Feb. 26, 2024.

U.S. diplomacy in the South Pacific is getting a boost from the regional deployment of the Coast Guard cutter Harriet Lane, which has started a years-long involvement in fisheries and anti-narcotics enforcement in conjunction with Pacific island countries.

The home port of Harriet Lane, one of a class of 13 U.S. Coast Guard vessels that can carry out so-called medium range operations lasting up to three months, changed in December to Pearl Harbor from Portsmouth, Virginia, as part of recent U.S. government commitments to deepen relations with Pacific island countries.

The 270-foot cutters ongoing inaugural patrol in the South Pacific that began in January has so far taken it to American Samoa, Samoa, Fiji, Vanuatu, Australia, Papua New Guinea and Nauru.

Commander Nicole Tesoniero said to date the patrol has carried out 28 vessel boardings under shiprider agreements with Pacific island countries  already equal to more than a third of the boardings carried out in a year by the six fast-response Coast Guard cutters based in Hawaii and Guam.

What were looking at with Harriet Lane, is starting to get to some of those regions that have been more difficult for the Coast Guard to reach, she told BenarNews in an interview. And this first patrol has been a great example of that.

Harriet Lanes deployment to the Pacific was one of the commitments from last years summit between U.S. President Joe Biden and the leaders of Pacific island countries. The U.S. has sought greater involvement in the Pacific in response to archrival Chinas inroads with island nations, such as its secretive security cooperation agreement with the Solomon Islands, signed in 2022.

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane and a fishing vessel are seen in Vanuatus exclusive economic zone in the South Pacific Ocean on Feb. 26, 2024. [Charly Tautfes/U.S. Coast Guard]

Many Pacific island countries rely on help from Australia, New Zealand and the U.S. to police their vast exclusive economic zones, which extend 200 nautical miles from land, to deter illegal fishing and ensure licensed fishing fleets are following the rules.

The island countries are also part of a drug-trafficking highway for international crime gangs that supply narcotics from Asia and South America to markets in New Zealand and Australia.

Bianca Simeon, an inspector in the maritime wing of Vanuatus police force, said the Harriet Lanes visit to Vanuatu last month was significant and beneficial.

The last time the country had patrolled its fisheries was in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters and problems with its single patrol boat. The RVS Takuare, donated by Australia in mid-2021, is now in Australia for repairs to a reported engine defect.

Vanuatu officials who went on patrol with Harriet Lane found violations in half of the dozen foreign fishing vessels they boarded, including fish catches in their coolers that were not recorded in their logs, lack of proper records for crew transfers between ships and captains fishing under licenses not issued to them.

Based on our experience during the patrol with Harriet Lane, I believe there has been significant illegal fishing activity in our waters, Simeon told BenarNews.

The patrol with Harriet was only for six days and this is a short time but we managed to find six vessels who were breaking our law, she said. I can definitely say there are fishing boats out there who are doing the same but get away with it."

Vanuatu expects at least one more patrol with Harriet Lane this year and would likely conduct a joint patrol if the RVS Takuare becomes available, Simeon said.

Shipriders from Samoas police force and its Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries prepare to board a U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane small boat in Samoan waters on Feb. 5, 2024. [Charly Tautfest//U.S. Coast Guard]

The U.S. has shiprider agreements with 12 Pacific island countries that mean law enforcement officers from those nations can board U.S. vessels and deputize them to assist in enforcing regulations in their waters.

The agreements are not explicitly aimed at China. However, U.S. diplomats and defense officials have described them as a form of military diplomacy known as theater security cooperation that can foster political relations in the region, enhance security and counter detrimental outside influences.

Many of the fishing vessels boarded in the Pacific with Harriet Lanes assistance are flagged to China, which reflects it has the worlds largest commercial fishing fleet numbering more than than half a million vessels.

Tesoniero said enhanced shiprider agreements that allow U.S. vessels to police another countrys exclusive economic zone without an official from the country on board could increase the effectiveness of Harriet Lanes South Pacific patrols.

The U.S. Coast Guard signed an enhanced shiprider agreement with Palau last year and with the Federated States of Micronesia the previous year. Both those countries in the western Pacific give the U.S. military access to their vast ocean territories in exchange for economic assistance and the right for their citizens to live and work in the U.S.

I do think there is considerable benefit to the enhanced shiprider agreements and its really just because of the ability to start that monitoring and enforcement action immediately upon entering the EEZ , Tesoniero said. I think it increases the scope of what you can accomplish.

Harriet Lanes Pearl Harbor berth lasts until 2027 under an agreement with the U.S. Navy. Tesoniero said its Pacific patrols also afford an opportunity to understand what its future home port options could be.
A member of the LGBTQ+ community holds a placard calling for marriage equality during a pride march in Bangkok on June 4, 2023.

Thailands Parliament on Wednesday passed a same-sex marriage bill at the final reading, moving the country a step closer to becoming the first in Southeast Asia to provide equal marriage rights to LGBTQ+ persons.

The bill sailed through the lower house receiving 400 votes in favor and 10 against, according to deputy speaker Pichet Chuamuangphan.

The landmark legislation still requires approval from the conservative-leaning Senate and endorsement from the king before it becomes law  a process that would see Thailand join only Taiwan and Nepal in Asia in recognizing the rights of same-sex couples to wed.

This law ensures that the rights of ordinary men and women are not diminished in any way. Your legal rights remain unchanged in all respects, Danuporn Punnakan, chair of the special Committee reviewing the bill, told Parliament before the final reading.

Simultaneously, this law will protect a group of people, whether they are called LGBT, transgender men, transgender women, or anything else.

Thailand boasts one of the most vibrant LGBTQ+ communities in Asia, and public surveys show that the bill enjoys overwhelming support.

However, discrimination against gay and lesbian individuals persists in the country, particularly in employment and health care, advocates say.

Same-sex couples were previously unable to adopt children, make emergency health care decisions for their partners, or access spousal benefits, including tax deductions and government pensions.

Kan Kerdmeemun (left) and Pakodchakon Wongsupha (right), who have been together for 30 years, pose for photos during a ceremony to unofficially wed LGBTQ+ couples on Valentines Day in Bangkok, Feb. 14, 2024. [Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP]

A key aspect of the bill is to allow two individuals (of any gender) to marry, amending current wording of the Civil and Commercial Code that specifies marriage as between a man and a woman. The change will allow spouses of all genders to manage assets and legally adopt children.

A public opinion survey showed that 96.6% of the population agrees with this bill. The benefits of the act affirm the government's intention and policy to respect and promote human rights by amending unjust laws to ensure that everyone has the right to equally and fairly establish family relationships, said Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsutin while presenting the bill for consideration.

Speaking before the vote, Pakodchakon Wongsupha, a 67-year-old woman with a transgender partner, said the amendments would provide social security and legal recognition.

If something went wrong that resulted in death, I wouldn't have the legal right to file any complaint like other legalized couples. It makes me hurt when I think about it. Every couple in this world, regardless of gender, should have the right to receive welfare benefits or legal recognition like anyone else, Pakodchakon told BenarNews.

Thailands road to approving same-sex marriage legislation has been years in the making.

An earlier draft marriage equality bill, introduced by opposition lawmakers from the progressive Move Forward Party, reached its second reading in November 2022, but didnt move beyond that because of a series of legislative delays after which the Parliament was dissolved in March ahead of the May general election.

Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn, a Southeast Asian human rights associate at Fortify Rights, said she hoped that Thailand's law could inspire other countries in Southeast Asia.

While this law may not be 100% perfect, from the perspective of an international human rights organization, it makes Thailands legislation more aligned with international standards, Mookdapa told BenarNews.

Wilawan Watcharasakwet and Ruj Chuenban in Bangkok contributed to this report.
Hana Ikramuddin is a Hearst Fellow for the Houston Chronicle.

Raised in the Twin Cities, Hana majored in journalism and political science at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis.

She has held internships with the Star Tribune, APM Reports and Sahan Journal. In her free time, she loves to cook, make chai and take care of her houseplants.
FILE - Actor Jussie Smollett listens as his sentence is read at the Leighton Criminal Court Building, March 10, 2022, in Chicago. The Illinois Supreme Court on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, accepted an appeal of Smollett's disorderly conduct conviction for staging a racist and homophobic attack against himself in 2019, then lying to Chicago police about it.
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MANCHESTER  You see this jug wine? How long would this last me before I have to dump it out?

I think you should dump it out as soon as you open it.

In Tales from the Wine Floor, sommelier James "Jimmy" Quaile asks questions and answers them in a humorous and informative way. In a recent talk at Northshire Bookstore, Quaile said he wrote the book to counter the snobbishness around wine and provide a solid introduction, so readers might find wine more enjoyable.

Fewer fine restaurants have a sommelier on hand to guide diners, but Quaile finds himself in demand at wine events. Some people try to trip him up, but most want to learn.

To him, there is no wrong food pairing with wine. He dismisses the idea that white wine goes with fish, for example, and red goes with meat: Throw that rule out.

He suggested that a pinot noir pairs nicely with salmon. He urged people to consider sauces and other dishes to get a complete sense of seasoning that could result in other wine choices. There are classic pairings: for example, a cabernet sauvignon with a steak.

But, if you want to put peanut butter on your tuna, it doesnt bother me, he said. It would surprise me.

Normally, our taste buds will tell us what goes with what. We may not like the typical tannins of a cabernet, for example, so well have to go to an older vintage (which has softened those tannins) or a different wine (for example a Beaujolais).

People who drink only chardonnay, for example, are missing out: There are 7,000 grapes in Italy alone, Quaile said.

Corks are necessary only for wine that will be laid down for aging  maybe 1% of wine consumed. Otherwise, Quaile said, screw top caps are fine. So is box wine  as long as decent wine is put in the box, a rarity  although, Quaile said, Bota Box is pretty good.

He opposes filtering wine: you are definitely losing some of the flavor for the sake of clarity in appearance. Red wine gets lighter as it gets older because sediment, with color, drops to bottom of the bottle.

I dont like any kind of manipulation of the wine, he said. I dont like any additives.

Some people say, I cant drink reds because I cant drink sulfites, but Quaile debunked the idea, noting that Coca-Cola has 300 times as much. Sulfites also naturally occur in french fries. So few people in the world are actually allergic to sulfites, Quaile said, that, You will never meet someone statistically in your lifetime who is allergic to sulfites. Some people have (this sulfite explanation) so ingrained that they can induce a headache when they have a glass. Histamines, he maintained, are the real culprit.

Quaile explained that to formally qualify as a sommelier  which literally means butler  you need to pass a rigorous test  or rather, a series of tests. He outlined the process he went through in 2014.

Upon entering, youre tested on cocktail knowledge. (Whats in a Dark and Stormy, for example? Goslings rum and ginger beer, of course.) Then you answer 70 written questions. If you pass these tests, you do blind tastings of 16 wines, identifying grape, region and vintage.

If you survive the tastings, you go to the final test: serving tables.

You may be given certain scenarios: for example, eight people, the host is getting married and she likes Sancerre. What Champagne or cava might you recommend? And then you pour  always clockwise  making sure that you dont run out going around the table. Halfway around, Quaile was told  oh, there will be two more people joining us, meaning he had to pour less, so he wouldnt finish the bottle before the end (bad form). Then, having finished pouring, he was told the party would be moving: Would he collect all the glasses?

In short, the test seemed to be seeking ways for him to slip up and get booted.

At the very end, Quaile saw 11 sommelier pins set out. He stood with the group, as name after name was called. Finally, one pin remained  and Quaile heard his name called. He had become a sommelier.

Quailes book Tales from the Wine Floor came out in the fall, quickly making back the money he had received as an advance. (Quaile said that only 10% of books published make back the advance.)

Hes touring again  not exactly the same as he did decades ago being in a band and opening for Paul Anka and Bobby Rydell. He played drums for decades, much longer than hes been a sommelier.

Who would he most like to sit down and drink wine with?

Easy. Paul McCartney.

Tales from the Wine Floor by James Quaile is available at Northshire Bookstore and other booksellers.
PUTNEY  When Kate Cleghorn first visited Puebla, Mexico in 1984, she found the country a revelation.

In a recent interview, she launched into a discussion of Mexicos origin story, noting that its leader Montezuma believed that gods from the East would come to rule.

When the Spanish explorer Cortez came from the East, Montezuma asked only for Cortezs helmet. Cortez agreed  but asked for it to be returned filled with gold. When it was, Cortezs conquest gained urgency.

In that early exchange lie paradoxes at the root of Mexico today. Faith in a spiritual world led to temporal destruction. What the Western world saw as weakness belies an inner strength and celebration of mystery.

That belief in prophecy, of a spirit world that governs life  that sense intrigued Cleghorn. In her many travels throughout rural Mexico, the Southern Vermont photographer came to see that there is magic in this acceptance of a spiritual world residing in nature.

Her new book, Mexico: Spirit of Place, contains 48 full-page black-and-white photographs.

Puppet Priest fuses the Spanish influence of Catholicism with the indigenous beliefs, in this case the love of giants, as embodied by the man in the foreground wearing a costume. Part of this fusion of Catholic and indigenous beliefs, Cleghorn notes, is that many current cathedrals are built on ancient religious sites.

For Goat Herder, Cleghorn did not intend to create a centaur, yet the blurring of goat herder and dog hints at a closeness, and their images, too, are close to the tree that dominates this dry landscape.

Bare Feet is influenced by Nell Dorr, who traveled to Mexico and wrote a book with that name. I happened upon this woman on the beach, said Cleghorn. She did not want to be photographed, but agreed to step into the frame and have her feet photographed. Photographing ordinary people, ordinary things ties into themes of another photographer she admires, Manuel Alvarez Bravo.

Incense underscores Mexicans use of incense in ceremonies. A priest stands in the background. The shapes are in harmony here, the sweep of scarf, the arch above, the woman in the center of this impromptu image. (And just what is the man in white shirt doing? Photoshop could remove him  but this is a film image.)

Church of San Juan Parangaricutiro buried by lava by the volcano Paricutin shows the effects some 80 years after the volcanic eruption. Cleghorn likes this image in part because of her efforts to get it: It was so hard to get to: I had to ride a horse for a couple of hours and walk across lava. The lack of vegetation all these years later shows what the lava can do, she said.

Fish, Puerto Escondido was taken on the Oaxacan coast of the Pacific Ocean. I loved the textures involved  and the play of the light and dark ... I like organic subjects  fish, dogs, plants, said Cleghorn. She has returned to this image repeatedly using gravure, platinum print, and salted paper to vary textures and shadings.

Part of her motivation for publishing the book was to show Mexico, a place she loves, in a positive light. She always felt safe there, whether traveling alone and with others, at times helping a professor from Rice University leading tours. She has been away for nine years, but doubts that things in rural areas would have changed. I never had any problems ever ... People are hospitable, they bring you into their homes.

"Mexico: Spirit of Place" is available at Vermont Center for Photography, vcpbookshop.org, of Brattleboro.
BENNINGTON  A Massachusetts man charged in a gang-related shootout at a Pownal residence in 2022 is scheduled to take a plea deal next week that modifies his attempted murder charge to attempted aggravated assault. The deal stipulates a two-year jail sentence.

Giovanni Torres, now 22, of Holyoke, was 20 when he allegedly took part in a January 2022 shootout at a known gang trap, a slang term for the use of another persons residence as a location to distribute drugs.

According to police, Torres and several other members of the Springfield, Massachusetts-based 03 Gang staying inside the drug distribution residence at 1342 Route 7 were accused of participating in the shootout with a rival gang. That violence got underway when one of the gangs, loosely connected to the Latin Kings, came back to the trap house in an attempt to reclaim their territory from the 03 Gang.

Torres is scheduled next week to plead guilty to one felony count of attempted aggravated assault. In exchange, state prosecutors will change the initial count of attempted murder to the assault charge. A separate docket containing five counts  including felony charges of cocaine possession and use of a weapon while committing a crime, and three misdemeanor charges of narcotics possession, possessing stolen property, and false info to a law enforcement officer to implicate another  will all be dismissed.

According to a filed plea agreement, Torres will be sentenced to five to 11 years, suspended except for two years to serve. He will also receive a five-year probation term, which will be transferred to his home state of Massachusetts. He will be given credit for time served and credit for any treatment hes received or will receive.

Torres has been held without bail on the attempted murder charge since March 2023, when he voluntarily surrendered to authorities. That means he will likely have to serve less than an additional year behind bars before his release on probation.

State prosecutors declined to comment on any possible cooperation from Torres in future trials.

According to official documents from an investigator with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), who has been in the Bennington area investigating gang-related activity since 2021, HSI has seen numerous suspected gang-affiliated individuals coming to Vermont from cities in Hampden County, Massachusetts, including Springfield, Holyoke, and Chicopee. A majority of those gang members and associates are engaged in the illegal distribution of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and other controlled substances. In addition, these gangs often seek to obtain firearms unlawfully from Vermont residents.

While some of the individuals are affiliated with national gangs like the Latin Kings, the vast number of them are affiliated with hybrid local gangs, HSI documents said. These hybrid gangs tend to be loosely organized around small geographic sections of Western Massachusetts cities. These groups, who use gang hand signs and slang terms, are the more prominent organizations operating here in Vermont.

In the case of the Pownal shootout, 03 Gang member Torres was at the Pownal trap residence the night of Jan. 26, 2022, along with several other individuals with ties to the gang, including a 17-year-old Massachusetts teen named Isaiah Rodriguez.

According to police affidavits in the case, two vehicles pulled up to the residence, and several individuals got out with masks on and weapons drawn. As six individuals began approaching the house, Torres and others inside began shooting at the people outside, who also started shooting back toward the residence. A surveillance video later obtained by police shows muzzle flashes from both the residence and the vehicles. One of the individuals coming from one of the vehicles was injured in the shootout, which left bullet holes in the vehicles and the residence.

Six days later, on Feb. 3, 2022, Rodriguezs body was found along a rural dirt road in Danby. Police in that case believe members of his own gang  03 Gang  murdered Rodriguez after they attempted to scare then rob him. Rodriguez had soured in the eyes of his gang leadership over a dispute about a missing handgun, according to affidavits. Three individuals are currently charged in connection with his murder. Two other individuals are suspected in the killing as well.

Police charged Torres with attempted murder for the shootout in March 2022 while his whereabouts were still unknown. A warrant was issued for his arrest, and he turned himself in a week later.

Torres was initially facing a possible life sentence if he was convicted in the attempted murder case. He was also facing a potential 18 years behind bars on the other five charges.

A Bennington judge will have to accept the plea deal next week before it becomes official. A hearing is scheduled for next Wednesday in Bennington.
Aliyah Jaico, 8, drowned in the pool of a DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in northwest Houston on Saturday, March 23, 2024. Courtesy of Nava Law Group

The operator of a Houston hotel where an 8-year-old girl died last weekend after being sucked into an underwater pipe didn't obtain a city-required inspection after it remodeled the pool last year.

The new inspection report, filed Tuesday by the Houston Health Department, raised questions about the safety of the pool and lazy river where Aliyah Jaico died.

In addition to the missed inspection, the health department also demanded the hotel turn over information proving the pool and lazy river at the Doubletree by Houston hotel followed federal laws requiring safety measures in public pools

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MORE ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Four now charged with capital murder over southeast Houston robbery shooting

Aliyah died Saturday after being sucked into the pipe along the wall of lazy river in the courtyard of the Northwest Freeway hotel. The girl was initially assumed lost, and possibly taken, until a searchers' underwater camera found her body wedged nearly 20 feet into the pipe, according to police.

No charges have been filed over her death. The hotel's owner, Unique Crown Hospitality LLC, and Hilton Worldwide Holdings have been sued for damages by Aliyah's mother, Jose Daniela Jaico Ahumada. The lawsuit accuses the companies of negligence, and is seeking more than $1 million in damages. The companies have not responded to the lawsuit as of Wednesday, according to Harris County District Clerk records.

An 8-year-old girl died Saturday, March 23 at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in northwest Houston Courtesy/OnScene.tv

The health department has twice sent inspectors to the hotel since Monday and recorded more than a dozen alleged violations.

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The first inspection, on Monday, found the pool didn't have proper fencing and other safety measures, and noted the existence of large openings on the side of a pool that had no clear purpose.

The pool was ordered closed to the public until the hotel fixed the issues.

The first inspection was typical after a drowning incident, a health department spokesman said. The second inspection was done after questions emerged on whether the business had sought permits to renovate the pool, or had been re-inspected after the renovations were done.

Neither thing happened, said Porfirio Villarreal, a health department public information officer.

The report stated the hotel operator "failed to obtain a pre-opening inspection prior to placing the pool into operation after a remodel." When inspectors were provided with plans on Tuesday, the plans didn't show information about suction, piping or pumps, according to the report. The pool's actual depth also didn't match what was indicated on the plans, according to the report.

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Inspectors demanded the hotel provide copies of its building permits and other forms before a reinspection scheduled for April 26.

The report also noted that outlet covers were missing from the suction outlets at the pool, though it was unclear if the outlets were missing before Aliyah's death or if they were removed as part of the work to retrieve her body.

Still, inspectors also wrote the hotel failed to "make available" documents that proved that proved drain covers complied with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act.

The federal law, established in 2008, was meant to prevent drain entrapment and child drowning in swimming pools. It requires public pools to be equipped with anti-entrapment drain covers and automatic release systems that will shut off pumps if a drain is blocked.

An inspector from the Consumer Product Safety Commission was also at the pool, and found that the drowning happened in an "open return pipe while the feature pump was off."

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The pool was ordered closed it until it could pass a complete re-inspection by the city. If the problems aren't fixed, the business could be fined up to $2,000 a day per violation, Villarreal said.
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If the special permit and site plan application is approved by the Lenox zoning board, the location next to The Center at Lenox would be across Pittsfield Road from the new Berkshire Mazda headquarters now under construction.
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Who Was Joseph of Arimathea?

The Bible has a way of repeating itself. All of Scripture is worthy of deep study and meditation, and the reader should take special note of everything in it. There are no wasted words in Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) each have accounts of the life of Jesus while He wore flesh on earth. The four Gospels dont share all the same reports, but Joseph of Arimathea and his role related to the burial of Jesus is mentioned in each.

What does the Bible have to say about Joseph of Arimathea? He is described as:

From the Jewish town of Arimathea (Luke 23:50). Arimathea is said to have been located about 20 miles northwest of Jerusalem. The name, Arimathea, means heights. Joseph was (and is) a common name. Without a last name, people who had common names were given an identifier such Joseph (of Arimathea) had.

A rich man (Matthew 27:57). A rich man in that day would have had wealth and means far above the common or middle-class person.

A disciple of Jesus (Matthew 27:57, John 19:38). A disciple is defined as one who is a follower, a believer in the principles of another. As such, Joseph would have intimate knowledge of much Jesus taught. He would have believed in Him as he spent time with Him.

A man who feared the Jews (John 19:38). The ruling body of the Jews sought to kill Jesus (John 7:1). After the crucifixion, however, the disciples were persecuted by the Jews (on Jesus behalf). To have been aligned with Jesus would have been cause for fear.

A respected member of the Council (Mark 15:23, Luke 23:50). The Council was that of the Sanhedrin, who acted as the religious ruling body for the Jews. They also maintained civilian and criminal dominion over the Jews. Because Joseph was a respected member, he was given access to Pilate due to the charges made by the Jews, that Jesus claimed to be King of the Jews, which would seek to supersede Caesars rule.

Looking for the kingdom of God (Mark 15:43, Luke 23:51). As a disciple of Jesus, Joseph would be familiar with the Lords teaching on the kingdom.

A good and righteous man (Luke 23:50). To be described as righteous in Scripture is high commendation, putting Joseph of Arimathea in the company of Abraham (Romans 4:3), Job (Job 1:1, where his description of being blameless and upright are tantamount to being righteous), and Noah, (Genesis 6:9). Thats a formidable group in which to be included.

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What Was Joseph of Arimathea Known in the Bible?

Joseph of Arimathea came in the evening of the day of Jesuss crucifixion and deaththe day of Preparation, which was the day before the Sabbath (Mark 15:42-43). He served as a respected member of the Sanhedrin, and yet was a secret disciple of Christ, for he feared the Jews (He hadnt consented to the religious leaders decision or action with what the council wanted to do about Jesus).

Joseph bolstered his courage (Mark 15:43), asked Pilate for, and received the body of Jesus after He died on the cross (Matthew 27:58 Mark 15:43, Luke 23:52, John 19:38). What greeted Joseph and Nicodemus at the cross would probably cause even the staunchest heart to falter. Isaiah describes Jesus as having an appearance so disfigured as to not even look like a manhis form not even resembling a human being (Isaiah 52:14 CSB). Disciples grow to know and love their teacher. Its hard not to imagine their horror at the sight of their Master, the One who explained their longed-for kingdom of God. After Joseph and Nicodemus took down the body of Jesus from the cross, they covered it in a clean linen shroud and anointed the body with 75 pounds of myrrh and aloes, as is the burial custom of the Jews (John 19:39). To remove one from such a form of crucifixion, a man had to climb up behind the cross and get the nails out that affixed the crucified person to his cross. Illustrations show a long piece of cloth used to gently lower the body of the corpse to the ground. The Lord had not been dead so long that the blood would have dried, so these two men would have been in contact with His fresh blood. The two men placed Jesus body in a new tomb owned and cut by Joseph himself (Matthew 27:57) and then rolled a great stone to the entrance of the tomb and went away (Matthew 27:60, Mark 15:46).

Do We Know What Happened to Him after Easter?

There is nothing mentioned in the Bible about Joseph of Arimathea after the account given in the Gospels about his actions following Jesus crucifixion and death. Legend has him becoming the first Christian missionary to Britain and, according to the BBC, he carried the Holy Grail there and founded the Glastonbury Abbey. The only reliable, documented accounts of Joseph of Arimathea are found in the Bible, and Joseph would probably agree, that is enough.

Why Is Joseph of Arimathea Important to Easter?

Joseph of Arimathea is important for this holy day because of his reverence for Jesus, even for His body after death. Jesus was not left to hang dead on the cross nor be thrown into a pit with all the criminals. Joseph belied Jewish beliefs about the unclean nature of a corpse when he and Nicodemus touched Jesus dead body. Also, his stature as a rich man enabled him to wrap Jesus corpse in the traditional long strips of clean linen treated with a mixture of spices.

Had the body been left to the Romans (slaves of the empire, rather) to dispose, it would have been left to the elements and animals to clean up the remains. It then would have been tossed into the valley of Hinnom along with those bodies the people of the day considered rabble. A dusting of lime was thrown over the piles to keep the smell at bay. This, the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, was used in Old Testament times as a place of defilement, where people did detestable things (2 Chronicles 33:6, Jeremiah 7:31). During the time of Jesus, it was called Gehenna, which is likenedbut not in the literal senseto the word, hell. Joseph of Arimathea, along with Nicodemus, showed (and modeled) utmost respect for and worship of the Lord with what they did and how they treated His body.

Another important fact about Joseph was that he played a part in fulfilling prophecies (Psalm 16:10, Acts 2:25-28). Jesus would not see corruption (the word used for corruption here means the pit, or ditch, grave). Joseph saw to it that Jesus body was kept as pristine as possible and, together with Nicodemus, laid him in his own unused tomb. Joseph then rolled the large stone over the front of the tomb, ensuring no man or animal could enter it and defile his body. Matthew 27:62-66 recounts the narrative of how the Jewish religious leaders went before Pilate and reminded him of what Jesus said, that He would rise after the third day. They asked that the tomb be sealed and guarded. The seal was a soft, moldable substance, probably clay, that was imprinted with the Roman imperial seal and attached to the stone with a rope. Breaking the seal would incur the Empires wrath  if someone could get past the guards (Ligonier Ministries).

As we know, the only way in (or out) was through a supernatural act of God, and two of His angels were there to greet Mary the next morning John 20:1-18).

While there is not much written in the Bible about Joseph of Arimathea, what he did speaks volumes.

Photo credit: GettyImages/LindaJohnsonbaugh

Lisa Loraine Baker is the multiple award-winning author of Someplace to be Somebody. She writes fiction and nonfiction. In addition to writing for the Salem Web Network, Lisa serves as a Word Weavers mentor and is part of a critique group. She also is a member of BRRC. Lisa and her husband, Stephen, a pastor, live in a small Ohio village with their crazy cat, Lewis.
Tucked away in the story of Jesus bloody trail to the cross is that the soldiers who beat him wrapped him in a purple robe and placed a crown of thorns upon his head. They gave Jesus a crown of thorns to mock him because Jesus spoke openly to Pilate that he was a king, but his kingdom was not of this world (see John 18:36). The soldiers meant to mock Jesus by placing a crown of thorns on his head, but perhaps there is more to the significance of the crown of thorns.

There was nothing standard or routine about Jesus arrest and being sentenced to die by crucifixion. He was an innocent man whom Pilate found no charge against (see John 19:6). But Jesus was sentenced to death because that was the reason he came to earth; so that he could save the world and make salvation possible for all peoples and nations.

Symbolism and Meaning of Jesus' Crown of Thorns

Placing the crown of thorns on Jesus head would not have been a normal part of crucifixion during this time. Crucifixion was used by the Romans as a punishment. In the documentation of Jesus crucifixion, found within the Gospels, a crown of thorns was placed on his head by the soldiers.

Jesus had told Pilate that his kingdom was not of this world. The soldiers draped a purple robe around Jesus, put a crown of thorns on his head and shouted, Hail, King of the Jews (see John 19:2-3). They did this to make a mockery of Jesus and belittle him. The crown of thorns symbolized the royalty and majesty of a king and was used as part of their futile attempts to humiliate him. They did not realize that Jesus was offering up his own life in accordance with the will of his Father to save the world.

Scriptures Mentioning the Crown of Thorns

Before Jesus was sentenced to be crucified, Pilate had him beaten and whipped. Three of the four Gospels mention specifically that Jesus had a crown of thorns put on his head by the Roman soldiers after they beat him. It is common for details to vary across the four Gospels. Together, the four Gospels give a detailed presentation of Jesus ministry and life.

Matthew 27:29 - And after twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on His head, and a reed in His right hand; and they knelt down before Him and mocked Him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!

Mark 15:17 - They dressed Him up in purple, and after twisting a crown of thorns, they put it on Him.

John 19:2 - And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on His head and put a purple robe on Him.

The accounts of this happening in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and John are intense. One can only imagine the pain and suffering Jesus endured. The crown of thorns that was being used as a way to hurt and mock Jesus and his claims of being a king has instead become a powerful reminder of exactly who Jesus is and what he went through to save the world.





Photo credit: Getty Images/mbolina

Why Was Jesus Humiliated before His Death?

The soldiers mocked Jesus and attempted to humiliate him as part of the crucifixion process. Jesus had stated he was a king, and they used that statement against him to ridicule and shame him. The soldiers slapped him and made jokes of his claims of kingship.

Their pride, their hatred, or whatever it may have been, kept the soldiers from recognizing who Jesus really was. For Jesus died even to cover the soldiers sins. This is the great love that Jesus has shown for the entire world.

Where Else Do We See Thorns in the Bible?

References to thorns are throughout the Bible, found in the Old and New Testaments. These references affirm the negative connotation of the word and the desolation associated with thorns.

Numbers 33:55 - But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then it shall come about that those whom you let remain of them will become as pricks in your eyes and as thorns in your sides, and they will trouble you in the land in which you live.

Hosea 9:6 - For behold, they will go because of destruction; Egypt will gather them up, Memphis will bury them. Weeds will take over their treasures of silver; thorns will be in their tents.

Matthew 7:16 - You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes nor figs from thistles, are they?

Hebrews 6:7-8 - For ground that drinks the rain which often falls on it and brings forth vegetation useful to those for whose sake it is also tilled, receives a blessing from God; but if it yields thorns and thistles, it is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned.

These are just a sampling of verses that reference thorns throughout the Bible, but perhaps most noteworthy is the use of the word thorns in Genesis when God spoke of the curse following the sin of Adam and Eve.

Genesis 3:17-18 - Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you.

The consequences Adam and Eve suffered because of their sinful choice included the ground yielding thorns and thistles. The Romans soldiers used a crown of thorns, part of the original curse, and placed it on the head of Jesus who would offer atonement, salvation, and hope for the entire world. Truly, this was a powerful symbol of the sin and death that Jesus was about to deliver the world from through his death and resurrection.

What Does the Crown of Thorns Teach Us about Who Jesus Is?

Thorns are associated with curses, death and dying, pain and sorrow, and sin. The Roman soldiers placed a crown of thorns on the head of the one who would take on all sin, and pain, and deliver the world from death. What the soldiers meant as a mockery of Jesus claims to being a king, instead demonstrated exactly who Jesus is.

Jesus is the King of kings. He alone is the Savior of the world. He took on the shame, sorrows, and sins of the world to save us and redeem us. Jesus willingly stood in our place, was nailed to the cross in our place, and paid our debt by offering up his life according to the will of the Father. What we learn from the crown of thorns is that Jesus love for humanity has no bounds, even willing to take on desolation because he loves us and made a way for our redemption.

A Love Unlike Any Other

Jesus crucifixion was horrific. He endured unthinkable pain, was beaten brutally, and died on our behalf. When we consider all that Jesus went through, it becomes clear that the depth and breadth of his love is staggering. Truly, Jesus love is unlike any other love we will experience.

The crown of thorns placed on Jesus head should have been what we suffered, but Jesus took our place. Only he was worthy, and only he could serve as the unblemished lamb sent to die a death that would redeem the world. Though meant to taunt and embarrass Jesus, the crown of thorns was actually a radical symbol of who Jesus is, both Savior and King.

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Why Does Jesus Say "It Is Finished"?

Why Is Joseph of Arimathea included in the Easter Story?

Photo credit: Unsplash/Mads Schmidt Rasmussen

Pamela Palmer is a writer, speaker, and the founder of upheldlife.com, the platform on which she produces devotionals and faith resources to inspire keeping faith at the center of life. She is in pastoral ministry and gets to share in the emotional and spiritual lives of others. She lives and thrives on Jesus, coffee, and music. She is the author of Living a Deeper Faith: Nurture Your Relationship with God and Live a Faith-Fueled Life. Pamela married the perfect man for her and they have two beautiful kiddos. She has been published on herviewfromhome.com, and you can follow her at upheldlife.com or on Facebook.com/upheldlife.
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Cipla will be responsible for the distribution of Sanofi Indias six CNS brands including Frisium

Sanofi India and Sanofi Healthcare India, and Cipla have announced an exclusive partnership for distribution and promotion of Sanofi Indias Central Nervous System (CNS) product range in India.

As a part of this partnership, Cipla will be responsible for the distribution of Sanofi Indias six CNS brands including Frisium, a leading brand in the anti-epileptic medication category.

While Sanofi India will continue to own, import, and manufacture its complete range of CNS products across plants in India and internationally, Mumbai-based pharmaceutical company Cipla will leverage its capabilities and robust India-wide network of strong marketing and sales professionals, distributors, institutions, and market outreach programmes to expand access to these treatments for patients who need them.

Rodolfo Hrosz, Managing Director, Sanofi India said Sanofi Indias CNS products are leaders in their respective categories. These well-established brands already improve lives of many patients across urban centres in the country. Ciplas wide presence will enable us to expand the reach of this portfolio to healthcare professionals and patients across all India.

Achin Gupta, Chief Executive Officer  One India Business, Cipla said Central Nervous System is one of the most challenging areas in medicine, and we believe this partnership is a significant step forward to address unmet needs of patients.
We Are China

Full text: Joint Statement Between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Nauru

Xinhua) 11:25, March 27, 2024

BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- The People's Republic of China and the Republic of Nauru on Tuesday issued a joint statement.

Please see the attachment for the full text of the statement. Enditem

Full text: Joint Statement Between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Nauru

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
The United States Postal Service North Houston Processing and Distribution Center, 4600 Aldine Bender Rd., is shown Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

Two Democratic U.S. House representatives from Houston said they are upset that the U.S. Postal Service ignored their complaints about Houston mail delays and dismissed their demands for a public forum and new customer service staffers to deal with the much-criticized backlog.

Rep. Sylvia Garcia on Tuesday said she was disappointed by the Postal Service's response to a Feb. 22 letter from Rep. Al Green and herself that also requested a news conference and media tours of the two processing centers at the heart of the problem. The letter was dated the same day service officials apologized for the delays during a briefing with representatives from Texas.

The service will not have a town hall or add customer service representatives to the South Houston Local Processing Center or North Houston distribution facility, Peter Pastre, vice president of government relations and public policy, said in a letter sent March 5. The letter did not mention a news conference.

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MEMBER BRIEFING: USPS apologizes for Houston mail delays during discussion with Congress members

"I'm a little dismayed that some of the points that we talked about in our Feb. 22 meeting, which I thought was a very good meeting by the way, some of the issues that we raised were either not fully addressed or just flat-out denied  and with no real explanation," Garcia said Tuesday during a virtual news conference with Green.

The service has not spoken to the media about the delays, only releasing statements.

"Part of the delay in speaking to the media was our desire to fully identify and then address the root cause of the challenges within the North Houston facility undergoing renovations," Pastre wrote. "It would have been premature and potentially misleading to address only some of the challenges before all factors were fully understood."

Green said service officials are more concerned about protecting the agency's reputation than being transparent with constituents.

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"They only want to show up when they can say we've solved the problem," Garcia said. "Well, people need to know how this problem is being solved along the way."

In denying the request for a town hall, Pastre said those types of events have not been beneficial in the past.

As for customer service representatives at the distribution sites, Pastre said it would be "logistically impossible" for representatives to find specific packages at the giant facilities when customers ask for them.

Garcia said she was disappointed by the lack of action. "When you have a problem, and it's a pretty big problem, it seems to me that you would want to do something special for the people that you serve," she said.

The service's performance in Texas 2, which is the region that includes Houston, has improved since the start of February, according to the service's service performance tracker. The score for first-class mail performance hasn't dipped below 80% since the first week of February. Texas 2 scored 90.% for the week of March 2 to 8, which is the most recent data available from the service.

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A file photo.

NEW DELHI (PTI): The Indian Air Force's 'Gagan Shakti' mega exercise is slated to be held over 10 days starting April 1, encompassing both western and northern fronts, sources said on Tuesday.



Fighter planes and helicopters taking off from different parts of the country will "engage pseudo targets" at Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan during the massive exercise held every five years, the sources in the defence establishment said.



Ahead of 'Gagan Shakti 2024', the Indian Army has been involved in providing logistical support to the IAF in the true spirit of "achieving synergy in various domains", they said.



The exercise "encompassing both the western and northern fronts" is scheduled to be conducted from April 1-10, they said,



The Army has facilitated a "comprehensive pan-India move of approximately 10,000 IAF personnel" and ammunition to validate the Operational Rail Mobilisation Plan (ORMP) aspects of the IAF, the sources said.



"This involved formulation and facilitation of rail move plan from various clusters pan-India for onward and return journey as per an operational plan," the source added.



Various passenger trains - time-tabled and with all amenities, including, meals and bedding -0 have been provided by the Army at Bengaluru, Chennai, Chandigarh, Delhi and Kanpur.



They will move to various destinations across the length and breadth of the country within a span of three days with effect from March 25, they said.



These passenger trains have been named 'Sanyukta Express' trains to denote the inter-service camaraderie. Their return journeys have been planned in April, the sources in the defence establishment said.



Liaison and movement support is being ensured through Movement Control Organisations (MCOs) of the Indian Army. The MCOs en route have been tasked to monitor movement in coordination with "a control cell" established at the Army Headquarters, as is to be carried out during operations, the sources added.



Two ammunition trains are also being placed to supply ammunition from depots to the exercise areas. Various other movements of smaller strength of troops have been facilitated through the placement or attachment of railway coaches with express trains, they said.


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FILE - Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, second from right, talks with his defense attorneys Philip Hilder, from left, Dan Cogdell, and Anthony Osso, Jr., after Paxton appeared in the 185th District Court for a hearing in his securities fraud case, Friday, Feb. 16, 2024, at the Harris County criminal courthouse in Houston. Paxton was expected back in court Tuesday, March 26, 2024, and closer than ever before to standing trial on felony securities fraud charges that have shadowed the Republican for nearly a decade. (Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle via AP, File) Jon Shapley/AP

He survived impeachment and now he seems to have survived his near-decade-long fight against felony securities fraud charges.

We're tempted to bring back the Teflon metaphor but plenty of other legal troubles are still cooking and have the potential to stick. He's desperately fighting court orders to testify under oath for the lawsuit brought by the whistleblowers he fired after they went to the FBI alleging corruption. The FBI is investigating their claims that Paxton helped an Austin developer and campaign donor, who later hired Paxton's paramour.

Now that a deal has been struck to dismiss the securities fraud charges, it's worth taking stock of the saga that got us here. The case emerged when, in 2014, Paxton received a reprimand from the Texas State Securities Board. The body chastised Paxton and fined him $1,000 for soliciting clients on behalf of investment advisors without following the proper procedures. At the time, Paxton was the leading candidate for Attorney General and yet, as Erica Grieder wrote, had "a history of not knowing what the states laws are, even  or especially  the ones that directly apply to him and his business dealings."

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In 2015, felony charges were filed and Paxton was enjoying his first term as AG. Among the charges were two for apparently convincing investors to sink a substantial sum into tech startup stock without ever disclosing that he was getting paid for it. One of the investors was Paxton's own Republican lawmaker colleague, who he'll now have to pay back as part of the deal. He used every opportunity to stall the case as it bounced around from county to county. The case even generated its own spin-off litigation over who would foot the bill and how big that bill would be for the special prosecutors. After the trial date was set for April 15 right here in Harris County, Paxton attempted one last time to make the whole thing disappear: an effort to dismiss the case because Paxton insisted that all the delays had impeded his constitutional right to a speedy trial. As if he hadn't orchestrated many of the delays.

As Texas Monthly writer Dan Solomon put it back in February: Since Paxton was first indicted, weve experienced three different presidents and 21 Marvel movies. Muhammad Ali, David Bowie, Fidel Castro, and Antonin Scalia were all still alive when Paxton was booked. Taylor Swift had only just begun her crossover from country music to pop.

In a deal announced Tuesday with prosecutors, Paxton will avoid his trial and charges will be dropped if Paxton pays around $300,000 in restitution to victims and completes 15 hours of ethics training, and 100 hours of community service. We're as perplexed as everybody else, including the reporters who have been covering this ordeal for years, about how this deal came to be.

Prosecutor Brian Wice said the goal was to seek justice and he believes the restitution and other terms achieved that without having to send Paxton to prison. Yes, but it also achieved another get-out-of-jail-free card for Paxton, and cover for the lie he repeated again Tuesday that the case was a "political prosecution." Never mind that one of the alleged victims was a former Republican lawmaker. It also removes the possibility that a felony conviction would bar him from running for another elected office.

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Now we must hope for another possibility that would benefit Texas: that Paxton will embrace this opportunity to serve his community. We have a few suggestions on how he can do that.

Texas' conservative top cop has spent a lot of his time banging the drum of voter fraud, from joining in on a petition to the Supreme Court that sought to overturn the 2020 presidential election to investigating election workers. But his voter fraud fetish hasnt turned up much, just a handful of stray cases such as that of Hervis Rogers. The man waited for six hours in line to cast his ballot in 2020 at Texas Southern University, but was unaware he had three months left on his parole before he'd be eligible to vote.

Paxton could find it a better use of his time to spend some of his community service hours actually volunteering in an elections office, seeing the tremendous hard work it takes to pull off this feat that keeps our democracy alive. Gillespie County sounds like they need help. There, Republican leaders, seemingly swept up in the same anti-voter fraud fury that has subsumed Paxton, decided to conduct its recent primary election by counting ballots by hand. It didnt go well. Turns out, poring over 8,000 ballots with complete accuracy is harder than it sounds.

Or perhaps he could dedicate some of his time to Catholic Charities, a nonprofit that does all manner of good work across the state, including providing shelter for asylum seekers as they make their way through a broken immigration system. In his quest to harass a shelter network in El Paso, he demanded documents, threatened to shut down the organization when they didn't immediately hand them over and even criticized their use of locks on the door. Maybe if he worked inside helping the vulnerable people who pass through their care, hed realize the need for them.

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More locally, Paxton could always strap on a helmet and bike around town with an air quality monitor to help out Air Alliances citizen-led advocacy. Paxton, who leaps at any opportunity to sue the Biden administrations efforts to strengthen the Environmental Protection Agency, could benefit from choking his way through the gritty air of east Harris County to better understand what hes fighting.

Completing his 15 hours of ethics training and 100 hours of community service will require some juggling but Paxton seems up to it. Consider his ability to to sue the Biden administration at the same time as he's sabotaging the reelection bids of honest conservative jurists who drew his ire by siding with the Texas Constitution over his personal interests.

For once, let's put Paxton's multi-tasking skills to good use.

Got more ideas for Paxton's 100 hours of community service? Send them to viewpoints@houstonchronicle.com.
A plan will be brought to Cabinet today for Ireland to opt into the EU Asylum and Migration pact.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee is set to propose the move, which would mean the State would commit to enhanced screening checks and a legally binding timeframe for application decisions.

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A separate plan to stop relying on private providers for refugee accommodation will also be discussed this morning.

Enda O'Neill, head of the UN Refugee Agency in Ireland, said opting in to the EU pact would bring a number of changes to the system.

Mr O'Neill told Newstalk: "A more comprehensive screening of people when they arrive in the territory first, identity checks, security checks, vulnerability checks, health and other assessments.

"The Eurodac system that involves fingerprinting and registration, there's some additions to that expanding the types of information collected and also providing access to law enforcement."

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The accommodation plan would mean a town's "last hotel" wouldn't be used to house asylum seekers with the Government using State-run accommodation instead.

Speaking on her way into Cabinet, Ms McEntee said this system would make the process quicker and safer.

"If somebody arrives, and say for example, they don't have documentation, they've gotten rid of their documentation, or they've crossed a border illegally, and that comes up on our system; they will be put into a processing time much quicker.

"They will be put into a system where their first decision and their appeals decision will have to be turned around in a mandatory timeframe... and if they have a negative decision, they will be returned home."
A 1972 film about the IRA was directed by a Nazi hunter with ties to Israeli intelligence, a new BBC programme reveals.

The Secret Army follows journalist Darragh MacIntyre as he attempts to unravel the mystery surrounding the making of an extraordinary American documentary, filmed inside the IRA in 1972 but which vanished for almost 50 years.

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The lost film includes footage of Martin McGuinness, then a rising young IRA leader, sitting in a car that was later used to bomb Derry. It also shows the late Sinn Fein politician displaying a gun and ammunition to children.

The documentary had been due to be released worldwide, but instead it had just a few showings in the United States, of which one was positively reviewed in the Irish Times by a US correspondent.

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Martin McGuinness was filmed in the car on a backstreet in Derry's Bogside

During his investigation, MacIntyre uncovers the original film reels in New York. He investigates how this documentary was made and finds one of the American production team who was present in the North for the filming during the bloodiest year of the Troubles.

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MacIntyre also tracks down some of the former IRA men who appeared in the documentary.

The BBC investigation found that the director of the 1972 documentary, Zwy Aldouby, was an Israeli writer and journalist who had been a Nazi-hunter after the second World War.

Zwy Aldouby (left) interviewing IRA member Rita O'Hare during filming of The Secret Army in 1972

The CIA had been gathering intelligence on him and, according to declassified CIA documents seen by the BBC, Aldouby was working under the guidance of Israeli intelligence during the filming of the IRA documentary.

Former IRA members who took part in the film and spoke to the BBC said they were unaware of Aldouby's intelligence connections.

The Secret Army will be broadcast on BBC Two Northern Ireland on March 27th at 9pm, and BBC Four on April 2nd at 10pm.
Rose Dugdale, the English aristocrat who led a notorious IRA art heist, had no regrets about turning her back on a life of privilege, her funeral has heard.

Mourners were told that the disinherited heiress, who died earlier this month at the age of 82, always remained an enigma to the British establishment, with her legacy forever interwoven in the story of the republican movement in Ireland.

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At the close of her cremation service in Dublin, the curtains were drawn across her coffin to the soundtrack of the Pet Shop Boys hit Its A Sin.

Earlier the coffin had been draped in the Tricolour as it was carried towards the Crematorium Chapel of Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin, led by a lone piper.

Ruairi Gallagher (front right), the son of veteran republican Rose Dugdale, helps carry her coffin to the Crematorium Chapel in Glasnevin (Brian Lawless/PA).

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The former IRA prisoners death came just days before a film about her life was released in cinemas.

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The rebellious former debutante from Devon rejected the trappings of her early life to join the IRA in the 1970s and went on to mastermind a multimillion-pound fine art heist.

The Oxford graduate was the ringleader of the 1974 IRA raid on the Russborough House estate in Co Wicklow, in which 19 valuable paintings were stolen.

She was involved in other IRA operations during the Troubles, including a failed bid to drop bombs on a police station in Strabane in Co Tyrone, using a helicopter hijacked across the border in Co Donegal.

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The republican bombmaker was convicted and sentenced to nine years in prison for her IRA activities. She was pregnant at the time and gave birth to a son, Ruairi, inside Limerick prison.

Her son joined her partner and republican colleague Jim Monaghan at the funeral service on Wednesday.

Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams and several party colleagues were among those in attendance.

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The coffin of Rose Dugdale is carried to the Crematorium Chapel (Brian Lawless/PA).

Ms Dugdale had been living in a care home in Dublin in recent years.

Addressing the service from his wheelchair, Mr Monaghan described his partner as a force of nature and an all rounder in revolution, politics and education.

Rose was a woman of many talents, she was well known as an IRA volunteer but she also taught economics and politics and sometimes a bit of philosophy, he said.

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Mr Monaghan thanked the staff at the care home for everything they had done in caring for his partner.

Former Sinn Fein Assembly member and MEP Martina Anderson presided over the service on Wednesday afternoon.

She said her friend had a pivotal role in the republican movement.

I stand here with a sore yet proud heart reminded of the remarkable journey I and so many others shared together with Rose in the depths of the Irish republican struggle, she said.

Roses path from a privileged upbringing to the heart of the republican struggle was marked by her insatiable and unwavering commitment to economic equality, social justice and human rights.

Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams was among the mourners (Brian Lawless/PA).

Ms Anderson added: Roses legacy will forever be intertwined with the tapestry of Irelands fight for freedom.

Sinn Fein TD for Dublin South Central Aengus O Snodaigh delivered the eulogy.

Rose was an enigma to the establishment, they couldnt and cant still grasp that somebody could turn their back on privilege in order to help the masses, he said.

If they had spent any time with Rose they would have come away with a clear understanding of how her passion, her drive to help the oppressed, her determination to rebalance the world order was Rose literally putting her money where her mouth was.

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Having enjoyed an early life of privilege in England, living with all the trappings of wealth, she went on to reject that life that was being shaped for her and embraced wholeheartedly, with no regrets, a life in struggle against British imperialism and world imperialism.

She was energetic, with a passion for justice, tackling poverty, and seeking the redistribution of wealth and rebalancing of power.

Rose Dugdale rejected the trappings of her early life to join the IRA in the 1970s. Photo: PA

A tribute from Ms Dugdales son Ruairi was read by her long-time friend and republican colleague Marion Coyle at the close of the service.

You will always live on in our hearts and never be forgotten  I love you ma, he stated.

The film telling the story of the art heist, Baltimore, was released in cinemas this month.

Actress Imogen Poots plays Rose Dugdale in the thriller directed by Joe Lawlor and Christine Molloy.
Leo Varadkar has accused Sinn Fein of displaying so much cowardice on hate speech legislation.

The outgoing Taoiseach said the party had buckled in the face of an online campaign of misinformation about what effect the Bill will have.

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There has been some political opposition to the Bill, particularly in the Seanad, where senators have questioned whether it would have a chilling effect on free speech and asked for a definition of the word hate.

Sinn Feins spokesman for justice Pa Daly has called for the Bill to be ditched entirely, saying it was badly thought through and is not fit for purpose, despite the party voting the Bill through the Dail last April.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has defended the draft laws as an effort to combat a rise in hate crimes and hate speech, but said she was listening to concerns.

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Speaking on Wednesday, Mr Varadkar said many elements of the Bill are misunderstood and rounded on Sinn Fein for their stance.

When it comes to Sinn Fein, never has a party, in my recollection, displayed so much cowardice on so much issues so quickly, he said.

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This is a party that supported the Bill in the Dail, tried to pretend they didnt support it in the Seanad, and they actually didnt vote against it anyway, and now all of a sudden, because theres an online campaign of misinformation about it, they buckle.

These are not the kind of people who you want running your country, quite frankly.

When it comes to the Bill itself, it has various elements to it and I think its misunderstood by a lot of people, and I hope we can have further debate about it."

He said he does not believe the provisions around hate crimes are controversial and that he does not believe any normal person thinks incitement to violence should not be a crime, such as calling on people to burn down a building.

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The Taoiseach said there is some controversy around parts of the Bill that are less clear.

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He said: For example, having certain information on your phone that could be hateful, for example, and having intent to distribute.

Ireland Sinn Fein accused of so much cowardice on hate s... Read More

I know Minister McEntee had already developed a number of amendments to allay some of the concerns that people have from a civil liberties point of view. I think it is important to listen to those concerns.

The concerns that I would say we should listen to  and I will be TD, so well be voting on this, so it will still be part of my business  is concerned around civil liberties, particularly around the concerns that the Irish Council of Civil Liberties have expressed around the Bill, and thats what the legislative process is about, its about reforming these things.

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There are people who have a totally other agenda and their agenda is one of hate, and they are terrified if this legislation goes through, that theyre going to be held accountable. Theyre the ones we should stand up to.
The President of TU Dublin is to stand down at the end of May. Professor David FitzPatrick emailed staff today informing them of his decision.

It follows a period of financial turbulence at TU Dublin, which was formed after the merger of the various Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) colleges in 2019. The Higher Education Authority has been working with the institution to address a financial shortfall at the university.

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Professor FitzPatrick said that before he stands down, he is committed to ensuring a financial recovery plan is developed "that will demonstrate a sound financial footing". He said he had made the decision to leave TU Dublin last year.

He will take up a role with the University of Nottingham in the coming months, becoming Provost and CEO of the University of Nottingham Malaysia from June 1st next.

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Last month, the Higher Education Authority (HEA) mandated a formal review of TU Dublin's financial management and control. Following this, teaching staff at the university passed a number of motion of no confidence in Prof FitzPatrick, and he had been considered to be under some pressure in recent months.

In a statement on Wednesday afternoon, the TU Dublin Students' Union said it echoed "the sentiment that a change in leadership is overdue. The SU anticipates this change positively and looks forward to a renewed focus on the student experience."
Ireland will intervene in South Africas genocide case against Israel at the top court in the United Nations.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said that after examining whether Ireland could intervene, he had been briefed that there is a basis for an intervention.

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A Declaration of Intervention is now being prepared for the Government to approve and will be filed once South Africa has filed its substantive case.

South Africa has taken a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing it of a genocide in Gaza.

According to local health authorities, more than 30,000 people have been killed and a further 70,000 injured in the Gaza Strip since the start of Israels military offensive in the Palestinian enclave.

The UN said that a quarter of the regions 2.3 million population face starvation and around 80 per cent have fled their homes.

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The offensive was launched after a Hamas attack in southern Israel that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and saw around 250 hostages taken, some of whom are still held captive.

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An interim ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza but stopped short of ordering a ceasefire.

It could be years before the case reaches final judgement.

Speaking on Wednesday, Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Martin said he had given legal staff in his department direction to pursue a legal intervention into the South African case at the ICJ.

He said that he requested that very serious legal work be done as the tests that are applied under the Genocide Convention are very narrow and have a very high threshold.

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He said the issue would be brought back to the Government for a more formal decision when South Africa files its case and when further legal work is done.

I had asked my legal staff to do preliminary legal work, last week I was briefed by my legal team in that respect and we believe we have a basis now for an intervention, obviously more substantive work has to be done.

South Africa has yet to table its substantive memorial and that will be some months away yet.

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He said involving a third party in an ICJ case is a rare and complex matter.

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This will be Irelands fourth time getting involved in cases before the ICJ; it also intervened in the Ukraine vs Russia case.

Mr Martin said the rapidly deteriorating situation in Gaza was now a humanitarian catastrophe.

Clearly, aid is being prevented from going in, but the most vital essentials of life are being prevented from going in to Gaza.

This constitutes significant harm and destruction to a people, and to the people of Gaza.

He added: As the UN Secretary General said as he inspected long lines of blocked relief trucks waiting to enter Gaza during his visit to Rafah at the weekend; it is time to truly flood Gaza with life-saving aid. The choice is clear: surge or starvation. I echo his words today.
Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelenskiy has replaced one of the countrys top security officials in a reshuffle that comes as the war with Russia drags into a third year.

Mr Zelenskiy dismissed Oleksii Danilov, who served as secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, thanking him for his service in a video late on Tuesday.

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The president said, without providing details, that Mr Danilov will be reassigned to another area.

Mr Zelenskiy replaced Mr Danilov with Oleksandr Lytvynenko, the former head of Ukraines Foreign Intelligence Service.

Today, I continued the reset of our state governance system. I am grateful to Oleksiy Danilov for his service as Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council. He will now work on a new direction; more details will follow.



I appointed Oleksandr Lytvynenko as the pic.twitter.com/4Ds2WTxrZL Advertisement Advertisement  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 26, 2024

The National Security Council is a policy coordination body that includes top officials and chaired by Mr Zelenskiy.

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Mr Danilovs dismissal comes as exhausted Ukrainian troops struggling with a shortage of personnel and ammunition are facing a growing Russian pressure along the front line that stretches more than 620 miles.

The reshuffle follows Februarys decision by Mr Zelenskiy to remove the countrys chief military officer, Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi, replacing him Col Gen Oleksandr Syrskyi.

Tensions between Gen Zaluzhnyi and the president grew after Ukraines much-touted 2023 counteroffensive failed to reach its goals.

Earlier this month, Gen Zaluzhnyi was named Ukraines ambassador to the United Kingdom.
Ariana DeBose will make it three in a row as host of theatres most watched event, the Tony Awards.

The Academy Award winner and Tony Award nominee, who hosted both the 2023 and 2022 ceremonies, will be back this year for the show on June 16, and will produce and choreograph the opening number.

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I couldnt pass up the chance to host the Tonys one more time, at Lincoln Center. Im excited to collaborate with the team to create an incredible celebration of this seasons achievements on Broadway for our community and for everyone at home, said DeBose in a statement.



Ariana DeBose on stage at the Tony Awards last year at the United Palace Theatre in New York (Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)

DeBose was widely cheered for the way she hosted last year amid the Hollywood writers strike, leading a show that had no script and opening the telecast by dancing and leaping her way through the lobby of the United Palace Theatre.

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She earned an Emmy nomination for her work.

DeBose is a theatre veteran, with roles in Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, Hamilton, A Bronx Tale, Pippin, Motown The Musical, Bring It On: The Musical and Company.

She won an Oscar for her role in Steven Spielbergs remake of West Side Story and was in Schmigadoon! on Apple TV+.

This years location  the David H Koch Theatre  is the home of New York City Ballet and in the same sprawling building complex as Lincoln Square Theatre, which houses the Broadway venue Beaumont Theatre.

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Like last year, the three-hour main telecast will air on CBS and stream on Paramount+ from 8pm-11pm EDT/5pm-8pm PDT with a pre-show on Pluto TV, with some Tony Awards handed out there.

The Tony eligibility cut-off date for the 2023-2024 season is April 25, and nominations for the 2024 Tony Awards will be announced on April 30.

The awards are presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing.

Last year, the intimate, funny-sad musical Kimberly Akimbo took the best new musical crown, and Tom Stoppards Leopoldstadt, which explores Jewish identity with an intergenerational story, won best play.

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Sean Hayes won lead actor in a play for Good Night, Oscar, and Victoria Clark won for Kimberly Akimbo.
Chinas nationalist leader Xi Jinping has called for closer trade ties with the US during a meeting with top American business leaders in Beijing amid a steady improvement in relations.

Mr Xi emphasised the mutually beneficial economic ties between the worlds two largest economies, despite heavy US tariffs on Chinese imports and Washingtons accusations of undue Communist Party influence, unfair trade barriers and theft of intellectual property.

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Chinas economy has struggled to recover from severe self-imposed restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic that it lifted only at the end of 2022, but Mr Xi said China was again contributing to world economic growth in the double digits percentage-wise.



American business, strategic and academic communities met the Chinese leader at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing (Xinhua via AP)

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Mr Xi was cited as saying by Chinas official Xinhua News Agency: Sino-US relations are one of the most important bilateral relations in the world. Whether China and the United States co-operate or confront each other has a bearing on the well-being of the two peoples and the future and destiny of mankind.

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Participants at the meeting included Stephen A Schwarzman, the billionaire head of investment firm Blackstone.

Trade and tariffs have increasingly drawn attention in the run-up to the US presidential election, and the Biden administration has shown little sign of moderating punitive measures against Chinese imports imposed by his predecessor and assumed rival in the November polls, Donald Trump.



Mr Xi stressed mutually beneficial ties (Xinhua via AP)

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US officials have renewed concerns over Chinese industrial policy practices and overcapacity, and the resulting impact on American workers and companies, that they blame in part on Chinas massive trade surplus that amounted to more than 279 billion dollars (220 billion) last year, its lowest level in about a decade.

Chinas economy has been bogged down by a crisis in its property market in which builders are struggling under mountains of debt and buyers are paying off loans on apartments that may never be completed.

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Other issues, such as an aging population and high youth unemployment, are prompting Chinas leaders to lean more heavily on boosting export manufacturing to make up for weak demand at home.

At the same time, scores of foreign firms including Apple rely on China-based manufacturers as key links in their supply chains, along with the countrys 1.3 billion consumers for a high percentage of their global sales.

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Chinas formerly highly abrasive tone toward the US has softened in recent months, particularly since Mr Xi and Mr Biden met in San Francisco in November.

Officials such as secretary of state Antony Blinken have visited, and treasury secretary Janet Yellen is reportedly due to to travel to China again to meet top leaders next month.

But Mr Xis administration has maintained a hard line on issues it considers its core interests.

Those include its claims to virtually the entire South China Sea, the self-governing island democracy of Taiwan  a close American ally  and its heavy-handed rule of outlying regions such as Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang.

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An ardent nationalist and son of one of the founders of the Peoples Republic, Mr Xi appears determined to maintain strict party control while drawing in foreign investment to shore up the economy.

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The respective successes of China and the United States create opportunities for each other, Mr Xi was cited as saying by Xinhua.

As long as both sides regard the other as partners, respect each other, peacefully coexist and join together for win-win results, China-US relations will improve.
Commuters travel on U.S. 59, under bridges that were once lit up with colorful lights, as the sun sets on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018, in Houston. Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle

After Mayor John Whitmire blasted the Montrose Management District for operating with what he called an "illegal" board, a district spokesperson said the group has not sent tax assessments to local businesses and will not until its board is fully staffed.

The Montrose Management District, after years of dormancy, announced in December that it had reactivated to offer additional security patrols and other services to area residents. Whitmire, however, said Wednesday that the board fails to meet state law's minimum requirement of five members, calling for the group to "cease and desist" all activities.

Theres currently a lack of transparency and just a dysfunction, Whitmire said during Wednesdays City Council meeting. I'll make certain that we agree and communicate to the residents and certainly the businesses that there will be no activity taken by this self-acknowledged management board.

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RESIDENT OUTCRY: Longtime Montrose business owners furious over revival of once-dormant management district

The district's website indicates that its board currently has four members. After Whitmire's remarks, the group's spokesperson, Alan Bernstein, told the Houston Chronicle that the management district will not issue any tax assessments until all 13 board member seats are filled.

Houston has utilized management districts as an economic development tool since the 1980s. Created by the Legislature, these districts have the power to issue tax assessments for some commercial properties and collect a district tax to fund improvements that would benefit the business community.

The Montrose Management District, initially created in 2005, received mixed reactions from area business owners, with many objecting to the extra taxes. After a lawsuit filed by a property owner, board members voted to disband the district in 2018, but the move was conditional upon a judges approval, which never came. Bernstein previously told the Chronicle that the district never technically went away.

The reactivation announcement has angered a number of longtime business owners in Montrose. Daphne Scarborough, owner of custom metal fabricator Brass Maiden, recently told the Chronicle the move is akin to taxation without representation. Pat Greer, who runs Pat Greer's Kitchen, said the management district was poorly run in the past and did not provide any useful services to justify the additional taxes.

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Their group of about two dozen Montrose residents is set to gather again Wednesday evening to strategize the next steps in their advocacy work against the management district.

Bernstein previously said the district has been discussing its reactivation plans with property owners for years and has secured the support of many major developers.

Notably, the district would levy assessments only against commercial property owners, rather than any business owners who don't own the properties in which they operate. Some properties  such as residential complexes with no more than 25 units  will also be exempt.

Whitmire and District C Council Member Abbie Kamin, who represents the Montrose area, said they are open to helping establish a new management district for the historic neighborhood but that it has to be done properly.

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The question is, how do we create a management district that does fit the needs of the Montrose area, that does support the businesses in the community as a whole in a way that we as a city know that it should be done, Kamin said.
The reputation of Christian churches could be damaged if they are viewed as undermining the integrity of the asylum system, UK Home Office sources warned as further details emerged about alkali attack suspect Abdul Ezedi.

He was granted asylum by a judge who accepted he was a Christian convert despite concerns the sex offender was a liar, court records show.

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Ezedis body was pulled from the River Thames last month following a major manhunt launched after he was suspected of dousing his ex-girlfriend with alkali when he pounced on her and her children, aged eight and three, in Clapham, south London, in January.

A raft of previously confidential documents revealed how Ezedi had been allowed to stay in the UK even though he had a criminal conviction.

Abdul Ezedi (left) being baptised (Judicial Office/PA)

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The rarely-made-public immigration tribunal court papers showed the lengths the Afghan national went to evidence his religious conversion from Islam, and how some of those who supported him during the process were aware of his crimes.

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He even signed an agreement to be effectively escorted during church services as a result.

Police launched a major manhunt for Abdul Ezedi earlier this year (Metropolitan Police/PA)

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The case sparked widespread debate about the role religion plays in determining asylum claims, while also raising questions over how the UK government and courts scrutinise the validity of evidence presented in applications.

In the wake of the Clapham attack, British home secretary James Cleverly called in church leaders to discuss the issues around the case.

A source close to Mr Cleverly said: The Home Secretary called a meeting with the vast majority of senior representatives of Christian denominations in this country in the wake of the appalling attack this man carried out, and the role Christian conversion had played in an asylum tribunal when the Home Office had turned him down twice.

We wanted to relay the potential damage to those churches of being seen, rightly or wrongly, as acting against the integrity of our asylum system where Christian conversion has been brought up at appeal.

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In this case the consequences were appalling.

That reputational risk is only amplified by the fact some who denied knowledge of Ezedi at the time had in fact known of him within their church, and had supported and vouched for him.

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Ezedi arrived in the UK on January 8th, 2016, but his initial asylum claim was refused by the Home Office, with an appeal later rejected by the courts the following year, according to the documents.

He was handed a suspended sentence at Newcastle Crown Court on January 9th, 2018 after pleading guilty to charges of sexual assault and exposure, instead being placed on the sex offender register for 10 years and ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.

Just over a year later, on March 19th, 2019, he challenged the decision again by lodging an appeal with the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber), arguing he feared persecution because of his religion.

The papers confirm his claim was granted after a hearing in Newcastle on October 28th, 2020.

Lawyers representing Ezedi argued he had converted from Shia Islam to Christianity (Baptist).

The punishment for this in sharia law which is practised in Afghanistan would be execution, the documents said, adding that he enjoys practising and sharing his Christian faith with others.

But, during proceedings, the Home Offices legal team said the government department did not accept Ezedis conversion was genuine and long-lasting.

Ezedi was prepared to deceive and use religion for his own ends and had been unable to demonstrate a clear understanding of Christian principles and beliefs, according to court records of the Home Offices submissions.

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In a ruling dated November 10th, 2020, Judge WK OHanlon, sitting in the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber), said: Having considered all of the evidence before me in the round, notwithstanding my concerns as to the honesty of the appellant (Ezedi) in relation to certain aspects of his account, I find that the appellant had been consistent in his evidence with regard to his conversion to Christianity.

Having taken all of these factors into account, I am satisfied  the appellant has undergone a genuine conversion from his former Muslim faith to Christianity and that accordingly  would be at risk in the event of return to Afghanistan.

I therefore allow his asylum appeal, he added.

The judge found the most compelling evidence was from Reverend Roy Merrin, former ministry team leader at Grange Road Baptist Church in Jarrow, who said he had known Ezedi for four years and that he attended church regularly.

Abdul Ezedi (left) handing out church leaflets in the street (Judicial Office/PA)

The Reverend told the court he was aware of people who fraudulently claimed conversion with ulterior motives in relation to asylum but did not consider the appellant (Ezedi) was such a person, the court documents said, adding: This showed he (the Reverend) was alive to the possibilities of being used by asylum claimants but did not consider that appellant was such a case.
The Brazilian and the French presidents have announced a plan to invest one billion euro (857 million) in the Amazon, including parts of the rainforest in neighbouring French Guiana.

The two countries governments said in a joint statement that the money will be spread over the next four years to protect the rainforest.

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It will be a collaboration of state-run Brazilian banks and Frances investment agency. Private resources will also be welcomed, Brazil and France said.

French President Emmanuel Macron and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva are meeting this week to revive the relationship between the countries after years of frictions with former President Jair Bolsonaro, as well as deepening co-operation to protect the rainforest and boost trade.

French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Chief Raoni Metuktire, pose for photos on Combu Island, near Belem, Para state (AP)

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Mr Macron started his three-day visit to Brazil in the Amazon city of Belem, where he met his long-time ally Mr Lula.

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The French leader then took a boat to the Combu island to meet with Indigenous leaders.

Both Mr Macron and Mr Lula saw a protest by Greenpeace Brazil with banners that read No oil in the Amazon.

Brazils government has contemplated allowing the tapping of oil in a region close to the Para state, where Belem lies.

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Mr Lula said during a speech that Mr Macrons visit is part of a global effort to beef up rainforest protections.

We want to convince those who have already deforested that they need to contribute in an important way to countries that still have their forests to keep them standing, Mr Lula said in a speech alongside his French counterpart.

Mr Macrons office prior said to the trip that a potential European trade deal with the South American bloc Mercosur will not be on the agenda.

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Mr Macron honoured Indigenous leaders (AP)

The French president is an opponent of such an agreement as long as South American producers do not respect the same environment and health standards as Europeans, after farmers raised concerns during protests across France and Europe.

The French president decorated Indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire with the prestigious Legion dHonneur medal for efforts at conserving the rainforest.

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You were in Europe and I promised to come here to your forest and be with your people in this forest that is coveted, Mr Macron told the Indigenous leader, according to French radio RFI. President Lula and I have a common cause for one of our friends in this land that belongs to you.

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Mr Lula and Mr Macron will seek to set a common course to fight both climate change and poverty, Mr Macrons office said, with Brazil preparing to host the summit of the Group of 20 leading economies in Rio de Janeiro in November and UN climate talks in Belem next year.

On Wednesday, the two leaders will launch a diesel-powered submarine built in Brazil with French technology at the Itaguai shipyard outside Rio de Janeiro.

The French President will then head to Sao Paulo to meet with Brazilian investors. On Thursday, Mr Macron will head to Brasilia to again meet with Mr Lula.
One of Gary Glitters victims is seeking around 500,000 (580,000) from the disgraced musician in damages, the High Court in London has heard.

The woman is suing Glitter, whose real name is Paul Gadd, following his 2015 conviction for abusing her and two other young people between 1975 and 1980.

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She has previously secured a default judgment in her claim  a ruling in her favour over Glitters liability, with a judge now due to make a ruling on the level of damages the woman can receive.

At a hearing on Wednesday, the court heard the woman  who cannot be named for legal reasons  has been unable to work for several decades as a result of the abuse.

Former glam rock singer Gary Glitter was jailed for abusing three girls (Elizabeth Cook/PA)

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The court heard that part of her damages bid includes a claim for 20,000 per year for 40 years, covering the time she has been unable to work, although any award is likely to be reduced.

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Jonathan Metzer, for the woman, said Glitters abuse had a dramatic and terrible impact on her education, work and personal relationships.

He told the High Court in London: One can only begin to imagine the profound pain felt by someone who has experienced such shocking abuse then suffered from feelings of shame and worthlessness.

The barrister said his client was plagued by thoughts of self-blame, adding that her mother was a fan of Glitters music.

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Mr Metzer said: You may have concluded that his status as a rock star created a substantial imbalance of power that he exploited.

There was an abuse of trust her mother was beguiled by the defendant.

Glitter did not attend Wednesdays hearing, nor was he represented by a lawyer, with the court told he had not so far engaged with the civil case.

Mrs Justice Tipples said she would give her decision in early May.

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The Verne prison, where Glitter is currently being held (Chris Ison/PA)

She said: In terms of the maths, the claim is made for 40 years in terms of reflecting time out of the labour market.

The judge added: The principle is not the issue, the issue is assessing it.

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This is a large amount of money that you are asking for, Mrs Justice Tipples said.

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Glitter was jailed for 16 years in 2015 for sexually abusing three schoolgirls. His sentence expires in February 2031.

He was automatically released from The Verne, a low-security prison in Portland, Dorset, in February last year after serving half of his fixed-term determinate sentence.

Glitter was put back behind bars less than six weeks after walking free when police monitoring showed he had breached his licence conditions by reportedly trying to access the dark web and viewing downloaded images of children.

The court heard Glitter is now back at The Verne, after being housed at Risley prison during his recent failed parole bid.

The offences for which he was jailed in 2015 came to light as part of Operation Yewtree, a London police investigation launched in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal.
Recovery efforts have resumed over six construction workers who are presumed dead after a cargo ship hit a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, causing the structure to collapse.

The collision occurred in the early hours of Tuesday after the ship lost its steering capability before it hit a pillar of the US citys Francis Scott Key Bridge.

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Audio from first responders reveals a scramble to halt traffic just before the crash.

The bridge is an important link in the regions transportation infrastructure, and its collapse is expected to snarl commuter traffic and disrupt a vital shipping port for some time.

Six people are feared dead (AP)

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Within 90 seconds of a dispatchers 12-second warning over the radio on Tuesday, police officers responded that they had managed to stop vehicle traffic over the Baltimore bridge in both directions. One said he was about to drive onto the bridge to alert a construction crew.

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But it was too late. Powerless and laden with huge containers, the vessel smashed into a support pillar.

The whole bridge just fell down, a frantic officer said. Start, start whoever, everybody  the whole bridge just collapsed.

When the container ship Dali slammed into the pillar at around 1.30am on Tuesday (5.30am GMT), it caused a long span of the bridge, a major link in the regions transport networks, to crumple into the Patapsco River.

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The people of Baltimore can count on us to stick with them every step of the way, until the port is reopened and Francis Scott Key bridge is rebuilt.



We're not leaving until it's done. pic.twitter.com/Hsm4kpNRtP  President Biden (@POTUS) March 26, 2024

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At least eight people went into the water. Two were rescued but the other six, part of a construction crew that had been filling potholes on the bridge, are missing and presumed dead.

A search for their bodies was under way on Wednesday morning, according to Maryland State Police spokesperson Elena Russo.

Among the missing were people from Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, according to diplomats from those countries. The Honduran man was identified as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova.

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Federal and state officials said the crash appeared to be an accident. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, and ship traffic entering and leaving the Port of Baltimore has been suspended indefinitely.

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Capt Michael Burns Jr of the Maritime Centre for Responsible Energy said bringing a ship into or out of ports in restricted waters with limited room to manoeuvre is one of the most technically challenging and demanding things that we do.

Two people were rescued from the water (AP)

So there really is few things that are scarier than a loss of power in restricted waters, he said.

And when a ship loses propulsion and steering, then its really at the mercy of the wind and the current.

Video showed the ship moving at what Maryland governor Wes Moore said was about 9mph toward the 1.6-mile bridge. Traffic was still moving across the span, and some vehicles appeared to escape disaster with only seconds to spare.

The crash caused the span to break and fall into the water within seconds, and jagged remnants were left jutting up from the water.

Police said there is no evidence anyone went into the water other than the workers, though they had not discounted the possibility.

The State of Maryland, our federal partners, local leaders, and first responders are working together to carry out rescue efforts and respond following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.



Our full press conference this morning in Baltimore:https://t.co/te9asC5VlF Advertisement  Governor Wes Moore (@GovWesMoore) March 26, 2024

A senior executive at the company that employed the crew, Brawner Builders, said they were working in the middle of the bridge when it fell.

This was so completely unforeseen, said Jeffrey Pritzker, the companys executive vice president. We dont know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers.

The crash happened long before the busy morning commute on the bridge, which was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said it was too soon to give a time frame for clearing the channel, which is about 50 feet deep, while President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore soon and expects the federal government to pay the entire cost of rebuilding.

Synergy Marine Group, which manages the ship, said the impact happened while it was under the control of one or more pilots, who are local specialists who help guide vessels safely in and out of ports.

Inquiries are under way into the tragedy (AP)

The firm said one crew member was treated at a hospital for a minor injury.

The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd, and Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

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Explained Why did the Baltimore bridge collapse and what do... Read More

The 985ft Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott called it an unthinkable tragedy. Governor Mr Moore said that all of our hearts are broken for the victims and their families, and he also hailed first responders for their quick response.

Literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, these people are heroes, Mr Moore said. They saved lives last night.
Allies of Florida governor Ron DeSantis and Disney have reached a settlement agreement in a lawsuit over who controls Walt Disney Worlds governing district.

In a meeting, the members of the board of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District approved the settlement agreement, ending almost two years of litigation that was sparked by Mr DeSantis takeover of the district from Disney supporters following the companys opposition to Floridas so-called Dont Say Gay law.

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The 2022 law bans classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early school years and was championed by Mr DeSantis, who used Disney as a punching bag in speeches until he suspended his presidential campaign this year.

As punishment for Disneys opposition, Mr DeSantis took over the governing district through legislation passed by the Republican-controlled Florida legislature and appointed a new board of supervisors.

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Disney sued Mr DeSantis and his appointees, claiming the companys free speech rights were violated for speaking out against the legislation. A federal judge dismissed that lawsuit in January.

Before control of the district changed hands from Disney allies to DeSantis appointees early last year, the Disney supporters on its board signed agreements with Disney shifting control over design and construction at Disney World to the company.

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The new DeSantis appointees claimed the eleventh-hour deals neutered their powers and the district

sued the company in state court in Orlando to have the contracts voided.

Disney filed counterclaims that include asking the state court to declare the agreements valid and enforceable.
An Israeli air strike on a paramedics centre linked to a Lebanese Sunni Muslim group in south Lebanon has killed seven of its members, officials said.

The incident triggered a rocket attack from Lebanon that killed one person in northern Israel.

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The Israeli strike on the village of Hebbariye came after a day of air strikes and rocket attacks between Israels military and Lebanons Hezbollah group along the Lebanon-Israel border, raising concerns of further escalation along the frontier that has been active for the past five months of the Israel-Hamas war.

The air strike after midnight on Tuesday hit an office of the Islamic Emergency and Relief Corps, according to the Lebanese Ambulance Association. It was one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the border.

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The Israeli air strike was linked to a Lebanese Sunni Muslim group (AP)

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The paramedics association listed the names of seven volunteers who were killed in the strike. It said the strike was a flagrant violation of humanitarian work.

Hebbariye resident Ali Noureddine told The Associated Press that the seven dead were pulled out from the rubble before sunrise on Wednesday.

The Israeli military said it struck a military building in Hebbariye and killed a member of Lebanons Sunni Muslim al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, or the Islamic Group, and several other militants. It said the man was involved in attacks against Israel.

Hours later, Hezbollah said it retaliated against the air strike by firing dozens of rockets on the northern Israeli city of Kiryat Shmona and a military base there.

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Rescue services in Israel said that a 25-year-old man was killed when a direct hit sparked a fire in an industrial park in Kiryat Shmona. Footage from the scene showed thick black smoke pouring out of a building.

The strike was one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the Lebanon-Israel border more than five months ago (AP)

Another person was lightly injured. Around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel, according to the Israeli military.

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Lebanons Hezbollah militant group began launching rockets toward Israel one day after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on October 7.

The near-daily violence has mostly been confined to the area along the Lebanon-Israel border, and international mediators are scrambling to prevent an all-out war between Hezbollah and Israel.

The fighting has killed nine civilians and 11 soldiers in Israel. Nearly 240 Hezbollah fighters and about 40 civilians have died in Lebanon.
Taiwan has commissioned two new navy ships as a safeguard against the rising threat from China.

Beijing has been ratcheting up its naval and air force missions around the island that it claims as its own territory  to be annexed by force if necessary.

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The pair of Tuo Chiang class corvettes completes the first order of six of the domestically produced catamarans with stealth capabilities.

The ships are relatively small, capable of carrying just 41 sailors and officers, but are fast and highly manoeuvrable and carry a range of missiles and deck guns aimed at countering larger Chinese vessels and rocketry.

Outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen oversaw the commissioning on Tuesday at the northern port of Suao, emphasising her push to revitalise Taiwans defence industries, alongside extensive arms purchases and support from key ally the United States.

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Taiwan has commissioned two new navy ships as a safeguard against the rising threat from China (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

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Ms Tsai has also fast-tracked the production of trainer jets and the islands first homebuilt submarines, sometimes pushing budgets for such purchases through the legislature against resistance from representatives of the opposition Nationalist Party, which favors eventual unification with China.

Ma Ying-jeou, the last president from the Nationalists, also known as the KMT, is reportedly planning a visit to China next month that could include a meeting with Communist Party leader Xi Jinping.

Taiwan was colonised by China in the 1600s but later taken over by Japan, before reverting to the Republic of China at the end of the Second World War.

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The sides then split again amid the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Mr Xi has been building his military with an eye to consolidating Chinas territorial claims throughout the Pacific, the South China Sea and along the contested high-mountain border with India.

China boasts the worlds largest standing military and biggest navy  with three aircraft carriers  but has not fought in a major conflict since its brief 1979 invasion of Vietnam.



The pair of Tuo Chiang class corvettes completes the first order of six of the domestically produced catamarans (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

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Since then, its military budget has ballooned to the worlds second largest behind the US, alongside a huge expansion of its economy, which is now showing signs of losing steam.

Most recently, frictions between patrol vessels from the sides near Taiwan-controlled islands just off the Chinese coast have renewed concerns about a conflict that could draw in the US, which is legally bound to ensure Taiwan can defend itself and considers all threats to the island as matters of grave concern.

While vastly outgunned, Taiwans military has been bolstered by new weaponry and an extension of the universal period of national service for men from four months to one year. Its air force, navy and missile corps also respond to near-daily incursions by Chinese ships and planes.

Taiwans defence ministry says it is on alert for a Chinese sneak attack, possibly targeting Ms Tsai or Vice President William Lai, who will take over the top office in May.

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Both are despised as separatists by Beijing. Recent Taiwanese media reports have shown satellite photos of Chinese Peoples Liberation Army training grounds including mock-ups of the area surrounding Taipeis Presidential Office Building.

Taiwans defence ministry said it detected nine Chinese planes and six ships operating around the island between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning.

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In Beijing on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Cabinets Taiwan Affairs Office criticised live-firing exercises by the Taiwanese military planned for next month near the Taiwan-held island group of Kinmen just off the Chinese coast.

Any provocative move Taiwans military takes is doomed to fail, Chen Binhua said at a biweekly news conference.
Legislators in Thailands lower house of parliament have overwhelmingly approved a marriage equality bill that would make the country the first in south-east Asia to legalise equal rights for marriage partners of any gender.

The bill passed its final reading with the approval of 400 of the 415 members of the House of Representatives who were in attendance, with 10 voting against it, two abstaining and three not voting.

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The bill amends the Civil and Commercial Code to change the words men and women and husband and wife to individuals and marriage partners.

It would open up access to full legal, financial and medical rights for LGBTQ+ couples.

The bill now goes to the Thai senate, which rarely rejects any legislation that passes the lower house, and then to the king for royal endorsement.

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If implemented, the legislation would make the country the first in south-east Asia to legalise equal rights for marriage partners of any gender (AP)

This would make Thailand the first country in south-east Asia to pass such a law and the third in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal.

Danuphorn Punnakanta, a spokesperson of the governing Pheu Thai party and president of a committee overseeing the marriage equality bill, said in Parliament that the amendment is for everyone in Thailand regardless of their gender, and would not deprive heterosexual couples of any rights.

For this law, we would like to return rights to the (LGBTQ+ group). We are not giving them rights. These are the fundamental rights that this group of people  has lost, he said.

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Legislators, however, did not approve inclusion of the word parent in addition to father and mother in the law, which activists said would limit the rights of some LGBTQ+ couples to form a family and raise children.

Thailand has a reputation for acceptance and inclusivity but has struggled for decades to pass a marriage equality law.

The new government led by Pheu Thai, which took office last year, has made marriage equality one of its main goals.
Linda Boles - "Long Before I Start" | INOV8 Public Relations

Nashville, Tennessee (March 26, 2024) - Inspirational and Christian Soft AC artist Linda Boles announces the release of her single, Long Before I Start, now available to Christian radio stations worldwide. Serving as both the writer and performer of this deeply personal piece, and with the expert production by Andy Baker from the record label Homegrown Worship, Linda continues her mission to uplift and inspire through her music.

"Long Before I Start" dives into the heart of prayer and communication with Jesus, emphasizing the understanding and comfort found in God's preemptive knowledge of our needs and desires. This single encapsulates the essence of Linda's musical journeyrooted in the rich traditions of bluegrass and shaped by a wide spectrum of musical influences, Linda's songs transcend traditional genre boundaries to reach listeners of all ages.

Drawing from a life marked by significant personal loss and fueled by an unwavering faith, Linda crafts music that resonates with those navigating their own spiritual journeys. Through "Long Before I Start," listeners are invited into a space of contemplation and reassurance, reminded of the constant presence and understanding of Jesus Christ.

This release marks a pivotal moment in Linda's career, reflecting decades of experience, ministry, and personal growth. The song's heartfelt lyrics and melodious composition are a testament to Linda's dedication to her faith and her craft, offering a source of comfort and inspiration to believers everywhere.

About Linda Boles:

With a career that spans over four decades, Linda Boles is a testament to the transformative power of faith through music. Born into a musical family and shaped by a lifetime of diverse musical experiences, Linda's work is a bridge between genres, touching hearts and uplifting spirits. Her songs are more than melodiesthey are messages of hope, resilience, and divine inspiration, born from a journey of profound personal and spiritual discovery.

Connect with Linda Boles:

https://lindabolesmusic.com

https://www.facebook.com/linda.boles.18

https://twitter.com/LindaBolesMusic

https://www.instagram.com/vocalisld/
Petrina Pacheco - "We Believe" | INOV8 Public Relations

Nashville, Tennessee (March 26, 2024) - Independent Christian artist Petrina Pacheco proudly announces the release of her inspiring single "We Believe" to Christian AC and Inspirational radio formats today. Originally unveiled on streaming outlets last year as part of her album "Im Not Her Anymore," "We Believe" has touched hearts and uplifted spirits, paving the way for its radio debut.

Co-written by Petrina Pacheco, John Chisum, and David Baroni, and produced by Chris Springer for iNOV8 Productions, Inc., "We Believe" stands as a testament to Petrinas deep-rooted faith and her journey from hardship to hope. Her music, including previous hits such as "Because of You," Im Not Her Anymore, My Savior, Be The Light, I Can Feel Your Presence, and Surrender, has consistently made a significant impact on the Christian Radio Chart (CRC).

"We Believe" encapsulates the essence of Christian faith, celebrating Jesus Christ's life, death, and promise of eternal life. The song is a powerful reminder of the hope and redemption found in belief, inspired by Petrinas own transformative journey from a life of addiction and despair to one of joy and service in Gods name.

Growing up in Kiln, Mississippi, Petrinas early experiences led her away from her church upbringing, through personal trials, and ultimately to a profound spiritual awakening at the age of 33. This renewal of faith has since propelled her into a life of ministry alongside her husband James, with a mission to aid those facing similar struggles.

With its radio release, "We Believe" aims to reach even wider audiences, sharing its uplifting message with those in need of hope and inspiration. Petrina Pacheco invites listeners to embrace the songs powerful declaration of faith and to find solace and strength in its lyrics.

"We Believe" is now being released to Christian radio stations worldwide. Tune in to experience the profound message of faith, hope, and redemption that Petrina Pacheco shares through her music.

Connect with Petrina Pacheco:

https://petrinapacheco.com/

https://www.facebook.com/PetrinaPachecoMusic

https://www.instagram.com/petrinapacheco/

https://twitter.com/PachecoPetrina
Opining about the worlds largest economic challenges is now an annual endeavour for Larry Fink, the founder of the worlds largest investment firm, BlackRock. This year, his crisis de jour has moved from climate change to funding the ageing population.

Unsurprisingly, theres no shortage of self-serving answers in Finks thesis on how to live in prosperity in retirement  given BlackRock is a company that invests the retirement savings of millions in the US and around the world and manages $15 trillion of other peoples money.

BlackRock chairman and chief executive Larry Fink has tackled our increasing longevity in his annual letter to investors.

There is nothing new about our ever-improving life expectancy.

But what elevates the challenge of funding the ageing population to a new level is biotechnology. Last year, when two biotech companies cracked the code for close to eliminating obesity, the notion of old age changed.
Australias gas and coal exporters are headed for a multibillion-dollar revenue collapse over the next five years as new forecasts by the federal government suggest fossil fuel prices will keep tumbling from the unprecedented highs reached after Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Shipments of fossil fuels were the biggest drivers behind two straight years of record export revenue from Australias resources industry in 2022 and 2023 as the end of COVID-19 lockdowns reignited energy demand and the war in Ukraine choked global supplies, causing a scramble for spare cargo and huge price rises.

Prices for Australian cargoes of LNG in Asia fell from record levels after a relatively warm northern winter. Credit: Xabier Mikel Laburu

Woodside and Santos, the two top Australian shippers of liquefied natural gas (LNG), made the biggest profits in their history between 2022 and 2023, as did local coal producers Whitehaven, New Hope and Yancoal.

However, the governments latest export forecasts, to be published on Thursday, warn that earnings from coal and gas shipments are on track for steep falls in the coming five years.
Steve! 

Apple TV+

The only unwieldy thing about this expansive and enlightening biographical documentary about comic icon Steve Martin is its full title: STEVE! (martin) a documentary in 2 pieces. The title is factually correct, but it doesnt  and probably couldnt  do justice to what director Morgan Neville (20 Feet from Stardom, Roadrunner) has created with his wry but nonetheless willing subject. The two feature-length episodes frame Martins life not just chronologically, but emotionally. They build to a subtle, resonant whole.

Steve! traces Steve Martins career from 1970s stand-up to his collaborations with Martin Short and the popular Only Murders in the Building. Credit: Apple TV+

Working with two completely different creative teams  the kind of formal gambit the 78-year-old Martin favoured in his own career  Neville has produced distinct pieces. Then flows through Martins Californian childhood and creative growth as a stand-up comic, a lengthy process that suddenly took off in the mid-1970s when he sold out stadiums. Its archival based with Martin heard in interviews, whereas Now follows him on camera through his bountiful current state as a happy collaborator with everyone from his family to comic foil Martin Short.

Theres a touch of deification  Jerry Seinfeld describes Martin as the most idolised comic ever  but for the most part, Steve! is focused on its subjects struggles and learning arc. The scope is staggering. Martins stand-up career is the fields most influential, yet he retired from it in 1980. One of the pleasures is how timeless the humour is  the concepts still hit, allied with Martins physical expressiveness.
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Review Eating outWoolloongabba This elevated south-side spot may be Brisbanes best-value restaurant A favourite among local diners in the know, Clarence serves the kind of refined, produce-driven comfort food you could eat all night. Matt Shea March 27, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

1 / 7 Clarence occupies a charming heritage-listed space in Woolloongabba. Markus Ravik 2 / 7 Snap-fried shishitos with pepperoni vinaigrette and French onion dip. Markus Ravik 3 / 7 Cold roasted veal with celery and bagna cauda. Markus Ravik 4 / 7 Coopers Shoot tomatoes with Mont Priscilla cows cheese. Markus Ravik 5 / 7 Pan-roasted duck with red kuri pumpkin, creamed cabbage and plum custard. Markus Ravik 6 / 7 Clarences open kitchen gives dinner service a nice touch of theatre. Markus Ravik 7 / 7 Clarence has attracted a dedicated local following since opening in 2022. Markus Ravik Previous Slide Next Slide 14.5 / 20 How we score Modern Australian$$$ Where, ideally, would you locate a restaurant like Clarence? Imagine this 44-seater in James Street  not one of those flash spots, but somewhere low-lit and intimate such as Essa. It would absolutely crush. Theres a stack of aptitude behind this place. Original owner Ben McShane is a former sous chef at Nineteen at The Star on the Gold Coast, and Umu in London. Before that, he was a junior sous at the now-closed Stokehouse Q and Kiyomi, also at The Star.

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Snap-fried shishitos with pepperoni vinaigrette and French onion dip. Markus Ravik Coming on as partners more recently are Matt Kuhnemann and Mitch Tucker. Kuhnemann worked with McShane at Two Lights, an East London sister restaurant of two Michelin-starred The Clove Club, and went on to the one-starred Elystan Street. Tucker was co-sous with McShane at Nineteen, before becoming that restaurants head chef. They also worked together at Kiyomi and Stokehouse Q. That elevated-dining DNA is always there at Clarence, lurking in the background. Its in the technique and the reverence for produce, and in the classy service, which for the most part effortlessly glides that line between attentiveness and familiarity. Good Food hat 15.5 / 20 Review Its one of Brisbanes classic restaurants. But is it still any good?

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But back in early 2022, McShane originally set out to make a counterpoint to those kinds of restaurants. Clarence was a COVID baby. Temporarily stood down from his position at Nineteen early in the pandemic, for the first time in his career McShane was cooking for himself seven days a week. Instead of restaurant-style food heavy on umami, he gravitated towards lighter flavours and using more vegetables. Its a personal journey McShane wanted to share at Clarence. But you need to be seriously good to pull this off. Without all those big flavours and flourishes, a chef can be left exposed. Thankfully, Clarence nails it more often than not. Cold roasted veal with celery and bagna cauda. Markus Ravik Some of its so wonderfully simple. The fragrance of snap-fried shishitos fills the dining room before they land on the table, tossed in a pepperoni vinaigrette and accompanied by a French onion dip. The peppers are sweet and juicy; the dip given a glow-up with a dash of cream cheese and yoghurt. Its the kind of comfort food you could eat all night.

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Clarences menu is presented as a constantly evolving set (so, fair warning, it will have changed by the time you read this) with three shared entrees; a choice of four mains, which come with sides of duck-fat chips and a leaf salad; and a choice of two desserts. The shishitos are part of an optional selection of snacks. These are worth exploring (despite a slightly ho-hum scallop and potato pave number) given the core menu will set you back  wait, say that price again?!  yes, $75 a person. And this is no slapdash lunchtime prix fixe. Were dining on a Friday night. At 7.30pm. Its stupidly good value, particularly when you consider whats on the plate. Entrees are poached Mooloolaba king prawns; cold roasted veal with bagna cauda; and Coopers Shoot tomatoes from northern NSW. Coopers Shoot tomatoes with Mont Priscilla cows cheese. Markus Ravik Its the tomatoes we end up fighting over. Glossy and sweet, they sit on a bed of Mont Priscilla cows cheese thats been softened out with milk, and pops with notes of citrus and honeysuckle. It plays like the best caprese salad youve never had.

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The veal is also killer. Thinly sliced, roasted medium rare, and finished with the celery and dollops of bagna cauda, it captures Clarences knack for classy restraint. Perhaps a touch too restrained are the prawns, which are served with silky melon gazpacho. Its an adequate dish that never quite adds up to the sum of its parts. Its stupidly good value, particularly when you consider whats on the plate. Of the mains, a duck with red kuri pumpkin, creamed cabbage and plum custard is the pick. Dry-aged and brined before being roasted in the pan, the skin is crisped just so, the meat pink and supple. There are a lot of dud duck dishes out there. This is not one of them. A pan-fried fillet of coral trout with zucchini, basil and a parsley veloute is arguably more accomplished; it pops with colour, and the line-caught fish is cooked exquisitely. But such a heavy, rich sauce doesnt seem suited to the crushingly humid Brisbane summer night on which were dining.

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Pan-roasted duck with red kuri pumpkin, creamed cabbage and plum custard. Markus Ravik For dessert, theres an inspired spin on a Filipino mango royale that swaps out the cream for a semi-set yoghurt mousse. Its light, acidic and clean-eating. A soft chocolate with cherries and whisky raisin ice cream is the opposite, and too heavy for us after such a generous meal. The drinks? We pick over a fabulous little wine list that has no particular thrust other than being Australian and small-producer focused  think, a savoury puncheon-aged Minim Colbinabbin vermentino, or a spicy, creamy Scorpo pinot gris. There are just a few wines by the glass, but our server happily offers to crack a bottle if something in particular takes our interest. Always a nice touch. As for the setting, Clarence leans into its simplicity, making the most of the heritage buildings raw brick walls and high ceilings. The team expanded early last year by knocking through a wall into the neighbouring tenancy, and moving much of the cooking equipment out front behind a curved counter, which gives the dinner service a nice sense of theatre. A newer banquette is mixed with some slightly tired secondhand furniture, but the team is frank about it all being a work in progress. Clarence is a favourite among local diners in the know. Markus Ravik

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Still, you wonder how it would go in a custom fit-out in a buzzier precinct. Not here, in this beautiful old building that sits in the shadow of the monstrous Mater Hill hospital precinct and on Stanley Street, one of those Brisbane arterials that once carried streetcars but these days pumps with traffic. If you dont live in the area, it can be a pain to get to. The restaurant has a dedicated cadre of regulars (and serious food influencers froth over this place regularly), but McShane will tell you Clarence could always be busier. It undoubtedly deserves to be. The low-down Go-to dish: Snap-fried shishitos with French onion dip, $8 Vibe: Elevated-dining DNA and superb value in an unassuming heritage spot. Drinks: Tight list of small-producer Australian wines. Cost: About $160 for two, plus drinks.
Demonstrators have shut down a major intersection in the Melbourne CBD during peak hour, causing a halt to city traffic ahead of the long weekend.

Protesters calling for an end to the conflict in Gaza have assembled on the Flinders and Swanston streets intersection, blocking traffic in all directions.

Organisers say Palestinian solidarity groups in Melbourne called the emergency protest to demand a halt to Israels expanding war.

People block the Flinders Street intersection during a pro-Palestinian protest on Thursday afternoon. Credit: AAP

We demand that the Australian Prime Minister [Anthony] Albanese and government take immediate action, the time to act is now, Free Palestine Melbourne said in a statement.

In Melbourne, thousands have marched to protest the conflict in Gaza almost every Sunday since last October. Demonstrations outside local MPs offices calling for action, university die-ins and disruptions to cargo ships travelling from the Port of Melbourne are also ongoing.

Police said there would be a highly visible and agile police presence around Federation Square on Thursday evening, supported by specialist resources, to respond to the protest.

We respect the right for individuals to protest peacefully. However, we will not tolerate those who intentionally block roads and disrupt the lives of the broader community trying to get home or come into the CBD, a spokesperson said.

Road users are advised to avoid the CBD or use Collins, Russell or Queen streets if possible.
The great bridge that spans Sydney Harbour has become the soul of the citys silhouette, seemingly as immovable as the sandstone cliffs of the citys Heads.

But the illusion of such infrastructures permanency came crashing down overnight when a container ship struck the pylon of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore with devastating results. The entire structure, along with a construction crew and several vehicles, plunged into the Patapsco River.

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore. Credit: Bloomberg

The scenes rattled a city that has at least 250,000 people cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge each day; not to mention other harbour crossings including the Anzac, Pyrmont and Gladesville bridges.

The lesson here is that we have to be vigilant, Associate Professor Colin Caprani, a bridge engineering expert at Monash University, said. We cant just take the infrastructure thats out there and say, Look, its fine, especially when ships get bigger, trucks get heavier, when the factors that [bridges] are exposed to are changing.
Violence in the education system has escalated for the third consecutive year, with the number of children accused of offences including assault, stalking, harassment and threatening behaviour hitting their highest levels since 2019.

New data released exclusively to The Age by the Crime Statistics Agency validates widespread concerns about students behaviour at school.

The number of assaults in education locations has risen to record levels, the latest Crime Statistics Agency shows. Credit: Janie Barrett

The ongoing violence and aggression from students is fuelling a statewide teacher staffing crisis and a growing exodus from the profession.

Social media is also adding complexity, as students videos trigger retaliation from outside groups even before the school bell rings.
There will be weeks of argument in the Senate hearings about the draft law. This means the immediate outcome is to bruise Albanese while dragging out the dispute. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese promised a better way when his government was elected in 2022. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Opposition Leader Peter Dutton will complain about the bill for weeks, but his track record suggests he will vote with Labor in the end. That is what he did in the clash over detainee laws last November and the rematch in December. Who will win? Dutton will want to extract a victory by hardening this bill in some way; Albanese gave ground last November but may not want to do that again. The fundamental question is whether authorities should have the power to lay criminal charges against asylum seekers who refuse to co-operate in their removal to their home countries.

A related question is whether the government should stop people from some countries  such as Iran, Iraq and South Sudan  from entering Australia because those countries do not accept the asylum seekers Australia seeks to return home. Immigration Minister Andrew Giles prepared the ground for this dispute when he said on March 18 that detainees had to co-operate with their removal. Now there is a draft law to add a hard edge to that argument. Loading The next test is a High Court hearing in a case that will shape the law on detainees who do not co-operate. The case relates to an Iranian man, known as ASF17, who has been refused asylum but will not co-operate in returning to his home country. He is not a criminal. He could be charged, however, if the government gets the law it wants. The government submission on ASF17 is due on Thursday. The case goes to a hearing on April 17. There may be a reason for urgency with the draft law, but the government totally fumbled the argument. At no point did it issue a clear statement about why it needed the law passed within days. There was not even a press release. The bill was drafted last Friday but the changes were sprung on everyone on Tuesday morning.

There is a moral dimension to this bill, not just a tactical question, so there are good grounds for a Senate inquiry. Labor wants to criminalise people who are seeking asylum and are refusing to help Australian authorities return them to countries where they fear for their freedom or their lives. It is no longer enough to detain asylum seekers. Now they will be branded as criminals if they do not co-operate. Labor will do whatever it takes to counter Coalition claims that it is soft on borders. The debates of the 2015 party conference, when Albanese voted against turning back asylum seeker boats, belong to a different era. Immigration Minister Andrew Giles and Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil answer questions at a fiery press conference on Wednesday. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Many of the people being forced to co-operate have already been refused asylum, so Labor can argue they are not refugees. Some might be refugees who committed crimes in Australia and are being deported because of their previous convictions. It would be wrong, however, to consider all these people to be criminals. For some, their only crime would be refusing to co-operate in their removal. It is an unforgiving regime for people who seek Australian help.

Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil missed a chance to make a stronger case for these changes. In a truly strange decision on Wednesday morning, she refused to take a few questions from the media in the Parliament House press gallery. Later, she cut short a press conference after the government lost the Senate vote. Loading Giles and ONeil insist the laws are common sense. They say the government must have the power to compel people to co-operate in decisions on asylum. Many people would agree with this basic proposition: if you do not help the authorities, you face a penalty. What the ministers do not explain, however, is why this needs instant approval in parliament. If this is so important, where was the draft law at the start of this year? Why wasnt the bill put to parliament last week? The political ploy is transparent and the contempt for parliament is obvious.
A level crossing in Dandenong South is at the centre of an $80 million stand-off between the state government and about 50 local businesses fighting tooth and nail to keep it.

The Progress Street boom gates have been earmarked for removal as part of the governments pledge to make the Pakenham rail line free of level crossings.

But rather than diverting the street under or over the rail line, one end will simply be turned into a dead end. Progress Street runs solely through an industrial area, and its closure has enraged factory and distribution centre owners who say the project is a victory of political spin over substance.

Its completely safe and uncongested, said Andrew Hamer of the level crossing. His packaging business faces the crossing, which is traversed almost entirely by delivery vehicles and posties. They want to remove it to say theyve removed all level crossings on the Pakenham line, he said.
Dnipro, Ukraine: They have lost their homes, their careers, and some friends, but they have not lost their spirit. So many Ukrainians have stayed at home, despite daily rocket attacks, determined to help their homeland rebuild and pick up the pieces.

Andriy Pavlovs home city of Kharkiv has been pummelled by Russia since the start of the war. He, his wife Yuliana and son, Egor, are among the estimated 400,000 people who have left the city in north-eastern Ukraine, close to the Russian border, and not returned.

Andriy Pavlovs home city of Kharkiv has been pummelled by Russia since the start of the war. Credit: Cecil Laguardia / World Vision

They left behind their home, their real estate business, their friends and family. So too did his World Vision colleague Liudmyla Serdiukova, whose home city of Bakmut in the far east of Ukraine has been the theatre of some of the worst fighting since the war began more than two years ago.

The pair are now integral members of the global charitys response team in Dnipro, a large city in central Ukraine, which has become a huge hub for people who have fled from Russian-occupied areas.
(Photo : Unsplash/ Mario La Pergola)

A US court cleared five of America's largest tech firms of allegations regarding their purported involvement in child labor within cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday.

Five Tech Giants' Child Labor Case Allegations in the DRC

The five tech giants, Apple, Alphabet Inc. (Google's parent company), Dell, Microsoft, and Tesla, were accused in case documents seen by ABC News of "knowingly benefiting from and aiding and abetting the cruel and brutal use" of child labor in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The US Court of Appeals Dismissing Tech Giants' Case

On Tuesday, the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ruled that the tech companies could not be held liable in a 3-0 decision, stating that they had nothing more than an ordinary buyer-seller transaction with suppliers in the DRC, saying that many actors, including labor brokers, other cobalt consumers, and even the DRC government, perpetuate labor trafficking. It further elaborated that issuing an injunction to the tech companies to stop the cobalt venture from using forced child labor would not bind the direct perpetrators of the unlawful labor, who are not part of this court proceeding.

Sixteen plaintiffs initiated the case in December 2022, including four former miners and child miners' legal representatives who either lost their lives or sustained significant injuries in the cobalt mining operations of DRC.

READ ALSO: Elon Musk's Tunnel Construction Faces Tough Scrutiny as OSHA Found Eight "Serious" Safety Violations

The defendants were accused of knowingly benefiting from and aiding the cruel and brutal use of young children in the DRC to mine cobalt while being aware, for a significant period, of the human rights violations happening in the cobalt mining supply chain.

The Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) Cobalt

The DRC is renowned as one of the world's most mineral-rich countries, boasting over 70% of the global cobalt reserves.

Anneke Van Woudenberg, executive director of Rights and Accountability in Development, stated in an interview with ABC News that cobalt is a critical mineral. It is utilized in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles and electronic devices, and its demand is escalating with the green transition as the company moves towards achieving net-zero emissions.

Extensive Human Rights Abuses in The Congo DRC

Human rights organizations have extensively documented serious human rights abuses within the DRC's cobalt supply chain's expansion, which resulted in the forced eviction of entire communities and severe human rights violations, including sexual assault, arson, and physical assaults. These organizations emphasize the urgent need for increased accountability in the industry.

Agnes Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International, emphasizing this significant harm to individuals, suggests the expansion be halted immediately.

Donat Kambola, president of IBGDH, highlighted that people are facing forced evictions, threats, intimidation, and deceptive tactics to coerce them into leaving their homes or accepting inadequate settlements. In many cases, grievance mechanisms, accountability, or access to justice are lacking.

RELATED ARTICLE: SpaceX Wrongfully Terminating Eight Workers, Faces Criticism on Labor Laws and Working Conditions

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Baltimore: The Baltimore bridge that was destroyed when a massive cargo ship crashed into it and killed six construction workers was only in a satisfactory condition and not built to withstand such an impact, investigators have found.

The revelation came as the bodies of two of the victims were discovered by divers in a ute submerged in the Patapsco River, about 32 hours after they plunged to their deaths.

Investigators have also retrieved a voyage recorder from the ship with six hours of data and have begun interviewing the 21 crew members and two pilots who were still on board the vessel, in a bid to uncover what led to the tragic collision.

A Coast Guard cutter passes the Dali cargo ship stuck under the destroyed Francis Scott Key Bridge. Credit: AP

National Transportation Safety Board chair Jennifer Homendy said the data recordings would provide a crucial timeline of what happened in the moments before the crash.
Sao Paulo: The Brazilian and the French presidents have announced a plan to invest 1 billion ($1.66 billion) in the Amazon, including parts of the rainforest in neighbouring French Guiana.

The two countries governments said in a joint-statement the money would be spread over the next four years to protect the rainforest. It will be a collaboration of state-run Brazilian banks and Frances investment agency. Private resources would also be welcomed.

French President Emmanuel Macron, from left, Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Chief Raoni Metuktire, in Brazil on Tuesday. Credit: AP

French President Emmanuel Macron and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva are meeting this week to revive the bilateral relationship after years of frictions with Lulas predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro, and deepen cooperation to protect the rainforest and boost trade.

Macron started his three-day visit to Brazil in the Amazon city of Belem, where he met Lula, a long-time ally. He then took a boat to the Combu island to meet with Indigenous leaders.
This is really cool having a brand-new branch for Wollongong, said Tony Story, NAB retail executive for NSW and Wollongong local. Its a slick modern design with all the things like modern meeting spaces and digital tools that youd expect for a bustling city like Wollongong.
NBC News Fires Ronna McDaniel as Paid Contributor Amid Backlash Over Election Denialism (Photo: Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America/CC BY-SA 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/deed.en))

NBC News has cut ties with former Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel just days after announcing her as a paid political analyst, following intense backlash from the network's top television anchors over McDaniel's role in subverting the 2020 election and her attacks on the press. The decision, announced by NBCUniversal News Group President Cesar Conde in a memo to staff on Tuesday, comes as McDaniel also parted ways with her talent agency, Creative Artists Agency (CAA).

"After listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor," Conde wrote in the memo. "I want to personally apologize to our team members who felt we let them down. While this was a collective recommendation by some members of our leadership team, I approved it and take full responsibility for it."

The reversal follows a stunning and unprecedented on-air rebuke of network brass by journalists and anchors at both NBC and its cable news sibling MSNBC, who publicly denounced the decision to hire McDaniel. As head of the RNC, McDaniel was involved in attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, including a phone call to pressure Michigan county officials not to certify the vote from the Detroit area, where Joe Biden had a commanding lead.

The revolt spilled into public view on Sunday when McDaniel appeared on "Meet the Press" with moderator Kristen Welker in her first interview since being hired by the network. Following the interview, NBC News' chief political analyst Chuck Todd delivered a stinging on-air criticism of NBC executives, telling Welker, "I think our bosses owe you an apology for putting you in this situation."

The following day, MSNBC hosts Mika Brzezinski, Joe Scarborough, Nicolle Wallace, and Rachel Maddow joined Todd in protesting the decision. Maddow, the network's biggest star, devoted the first half-hour of her prime-time program to the controversy, saying the decision to hire McDaniel was "inexplicable" and taking issue with McDaniel's long track record of demonizing the news media and launching attacks on NBC News journalists and MSNBC hosts.

The on-air revolt ensnared NBC's top leaders, including NBCUniversal News Group chair Cesar Conde, NBC News president Rebecca Blumenstein, and senior vice president of politics Carrie Budoff Brown, who were responsible for McDaniel's hiring. MSNBC president Rashida Jones also did not object to the decision, according to people familiar with the matter.

In the wake of Conde's announcement to sever ties with McDaniel, MSNBC hosts Joy Reid and Rachel Maddow addressed the reversal on the network's air, praising the move as "bold" and "strong." Maddow said, "I think it is a show of strength and a show of respect for the people who work at this company and make us who we are. That leadership was willing to change on this, I'm grateful to them."

Ahead of the network's decision, McDaniel spent Tuesday interviewing attorneys in preparation for a potential legal battle with NBC, according to a person familiar with the matter. The source also confirmed that CAA had dropped McDaniel as a client.

Former President Donald Trump reacted to the news on his social media platform, Truth Social, seemingly blaming McDaniel for making the move to the network in the first place. In her appearance on "Meet the Press," McDaniel had reversed her past comments and acknowledged that Joe Biden won the 2020 election "fair and square," while also indicating her opposition to Trump's plan to pardon those who participated in the January 6th attack on the Capitol.
U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to announce bigger climate targets in this week's virtual meeting. (Photo: REUTERS/Tom Brenner)

UlSl President Joe Biden was interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters during a health care speech in North Carolina on Tuesday, eventually conceding that they "have a point" regarding the need for more care in Gaza. The incident highlights the growing criticism the president faces from within his own party over his administration's handling of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Two protesters were escorted out of the venue in Raleigh after cutting Biden off mid-remarks, shouting, "What about the health care in Gaza?" and alleging that the president was "complicit in genocide." Biden responded, "Everybody deserves health care," and asked the audience to "be patient with them."

After the protesters were removed, Biden acknowledged their concerns, stating, "They have a point. We need to get a lot more care into Gaza." His comments were met with cheers and a standing ovation from the audience.

The interruption is not an isolated incident, as Biden has faced numerous anti-war protests at his events since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7, 2023. Calls have grown for his administration to take stronger action to address the civilian death toll in Gaza, with critics accusing the president of supporting a "genocide" against Palestinian people.

In an effort to minimize disruptions, the White House has made Biden's events smaller and withheld their precise locations longer than usual. The president has also faced mounting pressure from members of his party to address humanitarian needs more forcefully, leading him to increase political pressure on Israel's government to allow more aid into Gaza, though he has stopped short of calling for a cut-off of U.S. weapon sales to Israel.

Biden's efforts to appease critics within his party have led to growing tensions between his administration and Israeli leadership. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently canceled a visit to the United States after the U.S. did not veto a United Nations resolution calling for a cease-fire in Gaza.

Recent Fox News polling reveals a sharp divide within the Democratic Party on the Israel issue, with 42% of voters supporting the Palestinian side of the conflict, up from 25% in October. The poll also shows that since November, approval of Biden's handling of the Israel-Hamas war has dropped 8 points among all voters and 10 points among Democrats.

During his State of the Union address earlier this month, Biden announced that he was directing the U.S. military to establish a "temporary pier in the Mediterranean on the Gaza coast" for aid delivery. The U.S. has also begun airdropping humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Despite these measures, Biden and top allies have ramped up criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government's approach to the war. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., the highest-ranking Jewish official in the U.S., recently called for new elections to replace Netanyahu, a move that Biden later praised, adding that Schumer had "expressed a serious concern shared not only by him but by many Americans."

The president's speech in North Carolina primarily focused on his administration's work to preserve and expand health care, coinciding with the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act's signing into law. During his remarks, Biden also took aim at former President Donald Trump's efforts to overturn the ACA and his boasting about being "able to kill Roe v. Wade."
Packaged food company Annapurna Swadisht Ltd on Wednesday announced that it has acquired the six-decade-old 'Arati' brand mustard oil from R R Proteins and Agro Ltd (RRPAL) for a consideration of Rs 28 crore.

The acquisition would help the company foray into the edible oil segment and strengthen its FMCG portfolio.

The estimated amount of Rs 28 crore includes the cost of acquisition of manufacturing unit and the brand, a company official said.

The funding for the deal would be a combination of internal accruals and debt, he said.

RRPAL has a production capacity of 9 lakh litres of oil per month, and the acquisition will enable Annapurna Swadisht to enter a new business vertical of edible oil, he said.





ALSO READ: Magicrete completes process of acquisition of majority stake in Maxlite "We believe that acquisition offers an opportunity that aligns well with the company's overall strategy of becoming a formidable player in the packaged food industry in the semi-urban and rural markets of India," Annapurna Swadisht Ltd (ASL) Managing Director Shreeram Bagla said.

The company aims at leveraging its existing distribution network in tier III, IV and V towns in eastern and northeastern markets to increase sales of 'Arati' brand mustard oil by offering low-priced consumer packs at Rs 10 and Rs 20, which have growing demand in these markets, he said.

ASL currently manufactures snacks and beverages, offering around 75 SKUs across 10 broad categories.

Its products are available at over 6 lakh retail touchpoints primarily in Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh.
The BJD also announced the names of 72 candidates for the 147 Assembly seats in Odisha.

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday declared the names of 15 candidates for the Lok Sabha and 72 nominees for the Odisha Assembly elections.

Patnaik himself will contest from the Hinjili Assembly segment in Ganjam district.

The BJD's second list of six candidates for the Lok Sabha seats came barely two hours after Patnaik through a video message, announced the first list of nine Lok Sabha candidates and 72 nominees for the Odisha Assembly election.

In the second list, former Mumbai Police Commissioner Arup Patnaik has been fielded from Puri Lok Sabha seat against BJP's Sambit Patra, while Santrupt Mishra will contest from Cuttack seat.

Patnaik re-nominated three sitting MPs - Sarmistha Sethi (Jajpur), Rajashree Mallick (Jagatsinghpur), and Achyuta Samanta (Kandhamal).

Abinash Samal has been named as the BJD's candidate for Dhenkanal Lok Sabha constituency.

In the first list, Patnaik had named nine candidates - Lambodar Nial (Kalahandi), Pranab Prakash Das (Sambalpur), Dilip Tirkey (Sundergarh), Odisha Minister Sudam Marndi (Mayurbhanj), Ansuman Mohanty (Kendrapara), Pradip Kumar Majhi (Nabarangpur), Manmath Routray (Bhubaneswar), Kausalya Hikaka (Koraput) and Ranjita Sahu (Aska).

The BJD has dropped six sitting MPs. They are - Pinaki Mishra (Puri), Mahesh Sahu (Dhenkanal), Bhartruhari Mahtab, who recently resigned from BJD and joined BJP, (Cuttack), Anubhav Mohanty (Kendrapara), Ramesh Majhi (Nabarangpur) and Pramila Bisoyi (Aska).

BJD general secretary (Organisation) Pranab Prakash Das will contest from Sambalpur Lok Sabha seat against Union Minister and BJP candidate Dharmendra Pradhan.

Manmath Routray son of veteran Congress MLA Suresh Routray has been fielded by the BJD for Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha constituency against BJP's Aparajita Sarangi.

While former Indian Hockey skipper Dilip Tirkey will face former Union Minister and sitting MP Jual Oram in the Sundergarh Lok Sabha seat, Odisha Minister Sudam Marndi will contest from the Mayurbhanj Lok Sabha seat against BJP MLA Naba Charan Majhi.

Of the 15 Lok Sabha candidates, four are women. Of the 72 Assembly candidates, 13 were new faces and 12 were women candidates.





ALSO READ: PM Modi made 'corrupt-mukt Congress': Ramesh after Naveen Jindal joins BJP The BJD president has re-nominated most of the ministers and Assembly Speaker Pramila Mallik. She will contest from her traditional Binjharpur seat in Jajpur district.

The ministers who have been re-nominated to contest the assembly elections were: Jagannath Saraka ( Bisam Cuttack), Rita Sahu (Bijepur), Ashwini Patra (Jaleswar), Preeti Ranjan Gharai (Sukinda), Prafulla Mallick (Kamakshya Nagar), Niranjan Pujari (Sonepur), Tukuni Sahu (Titlagarh), Rajendra Dholkia (Nuapada), Pradip Amat (Boudh), Ranendra Pratap Swain (Athagah). Pratap Deb (Aul) and Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak (Mahakalpada).

Prominent leaders who have been re-nominated to contest the assembly elections were: Susanth Singh (Bhatli), Prafulla Samal (Bhadrak), Dibya Shankar Mishra (Junagarh), Debi Prasad Mishra (Baramba), Arun Kumar Sahoo (Nayagarh), Srikant Sahu (Polsara) and Badrinarayan Patra (Ghasipura).

Patnaik's arch political rival Bijay Mohapatra's son who joined the BJD recently, was nominated by the party to contest from Patkura assembly segment in Kendrapara district. Similarly, late speaker SN Patro's son Biplab Patro has been nominated to contest from Digapahandi assembly segment.

Two sitting MLAs of Basta and Patkura, Nityananda Sahoo and Sabitri Agarwalla, have also been dropped from the list of 72 candidates for the Assembly polls. They have been replaced by two new faces - Arvind Mohapatra and Subhasini Jena, respectively.

Similarly, the sitting MLA from Satyabadi Umakanta Samantaray has been shifted to Brahmagiri, where Sanjay Das Burma had lost the 2019 elections to BJP's Lalitendu Bidyadhar Mohapatra by over 2,000 votes. Sanjay Das Burma will contest from Satyabadi this time.

The party has fielded Sunil Mohanty, son of former Assembly Speaker Maheswar Mohanty from the Puri Sadar Assembly seat.

The party has also nominated Chinmayananda Srirup Deb, son of sitting MLA and minister Usha Devi, from Chikiti in Ganjam district. Kalikesh Singh Deo, a former MP from Bolangir seat, has been fielded from an assembly constituency this time.

The other candidates for the Assembly polls were Raghunath Gamango from Gunupur, Anusaya Majhi from Rayagada, Debesh Acharya (Bargarh), Snehangini Churia (Atabira), Subhasini Jena (Basata), Sanjeeb Mallik (Bhandaripokhari), Debi Tripathy (Banki), Sauvik Biswal (Cuttack Choudhwar), Chandra Sarathi Behera (Cuttack Sadar).

Odisha has 21 Lok Sabha seats and 147 Assembly constituencies. Lok Sabha and Odisha Assembly elections will be held simultaneously in four phases May 13, 20, 25 and June 1.


External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday called on Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and the two leaders exchanged views and discussed cooperation in the areas of trade, science and technology, education, agriculture, tourism, defence and also on regional issues including Myanmar.

Jaishankar, who is here on a two-day official visit, met Anwar at the Prime Minister's Office and the meeting lasted about an hour, the official Bernama news agency reported.

In a statement issued after the meeting, the Prime Minister's Office said that Anwar and Jaishankar exchanged views and discussed cooperation in the areas of trade, science and technology, education, agriculture, tourism, defence and digital, and also on regional issues including Myanmar.



Anwar gave his commitment to facilitate the establishment of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) branch campus in Malaysia, it added.

The Prime Minister also expressed appreciation to his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi for assisting Malaysia when the country was hit by a shortage of rice and hoped for further facilitation on the import of agricultural produce from India.

"May the Malaysian-Indian relationship continue to grow and blossom for the benefit of the people of both friendly countries," Anwar said.

The Prime Minister looks forward to visit India soon, the statement said.

Jaishankar, who is in Kuala Lumpur on the third and last leg of his three-nation tour to Singapore, the Philippines and Malaysia, conveyed the warm greetings of Prime Minister Modi.

"Honour to call on Prime Minister @anwaribrahim of Malaysia. Conveyed the warm greetings of PM @narendramodi," Jaishankar said in a post on X.

Praising the Malaysian prime minister's vision for a stronger bilateral relationship, he said, "His vision for stronger India-Malaysia ties, both in traditional and new-age areas, will help us craft a more ambitious agenda for the relationship."



Earlier, Jaishankar met his Malaysian counterpart Mohamad bin Haji Hasan.

The two foreign ministers held a "productive and frank discussion, including exchanging views on the multifaceted dimensions of Malaysia-India bilateral affairs as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest," the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in an official statement.

The meeting was also attended by Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu and Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong.

Malaysia and India share a long-standing and substantive relationship bound by robust economic partnerships and close people-to-people ties.

In 2023, India was Malaysia's 12th largest global trading partner, with total trade amounting to RM 77.76 billion (USD 16.53 billion), the statement said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

"Benefitted from his guidance and insights on regional developments," he added.
The Enforcement Directorate has filed a money laundering case against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena Vijayan, her IT company and some others to probe a case of alleged illegal payments made by a private mineral firm to her and the company, official sources said Wednesday.

The agency has registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and is expected to summon the people involved, the sources said.



The ED case has been booked after taking cognisance of a complaint filed by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), an investigative arm of the Union corporate affairs ministry, they said.

The case stems from an Income Tax Department investigation that alleged that a private company called Cochin Minerals And Rutile Ltd (CMRL), made an illegal payment of Rs 1.72 crore to Veena's company-- Exalogic Solutions-- during 2018 to 2019, even though the IT firm had not provided any service to the company.

The Karnataka High Court had last month dismissed a plea filed by Exalogic Solutions against the probe initiated by the SFIO.




By Park Jin-hai

"Hansik," or Korean food, is garnering increasing attention on the global culinary stage. Reflecting this trend, Asias 50 Best Restaurants was hosted in Seoul for the first time and the #50BestTalks, a talk session of the five-day international gourmet festival that kicked off Saturday, shed light on the fermented dishes of Asia under the theme "Food of the People."

Ha Mi-hyun, Korean author and CEO of Spoken Company, opened the session, drawing a metaphor between hansik and "danji," a traditional pottery vessel used for fermented food.

You can't tell what's in a danji from a distance. Its true beauty and contents are only revealed when the lid is opened. Just like Koreans  who seem reserved at first, but once you get to know them, they open up  danji reveals a rich inner world of stories, life and food culture in it, she said during the #50BestTalks at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Monday.

Ha traveled across the country, spanning some 620,000 kilometers since 2014, meeting local people and recording the undocumented spoken recipes of the people.

She highlighted the vast array of kimchi varieties in Korea, emphasizing their regional and seasonal diversity, telling stories of corn kimchi, or summer kimchi infused with corn water, subicho kimchi featuring a specific Korean chili pepper and dureup kimchi made with aralia elata shoots.

Not only just documenting the spoken recipes across the country, Ha also holds workshops and promotes seasonal produce in partnership with local farmers.

The reason for recording is not only to tell the stories of the past, but also to show that they are still delicious today. Ordinary is the extraordinary," Ha said.

Another "ordinary" Korean dish discussed during the session was "naengmyeon" (Korean cold noodle). Chef Kim Do-yun of Yun Seoul shared insights into the craftsmanship behind this dish, originating from the 18th century.

Kim recounted his journey to acquire the finest ingredients to achieve the intricate balance of flavors in this seemingly simple bowl of broth and noodles. According to Kim, in order to create noodles with the right fragrance, he roasts soybeans and mung beans and add them to whole wheat flour. Kim added that the ingredients needed for broth are naturally dried, instead of being boiled or steamed, to enhance the flavor.

Kim said a chef's job is an endless endeavor. "I wanted to show this seemingly simple Korean dish is actually born out of the chefs tremendous efforts and devotion, he said, explaining how he makes sesame oil from some 60 different kinds of sesame seeds he collected from fields across the country.

Fermented food in Asia

The discussion expanded beyond Korean borders as chefs from leading restaurants across Asia shared their experiences with fermentation.

Vietnamese American banker-turned-chef Peter Cuong Franklin, at the helm of Anan Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City, presented how local chili, anchovies and other ingredients are fermented to create Vietnams signature fish sauce.

In his second visit to Seoul, Franklin highlighted the parallels between the importance of fermented food such as fish sauce and pickles in Korean and Vietnamese cuisines.

I went to the dinner yesterday and mingled with eight of the top Korean chefs. So that was very fun to really experience what's happening in Korea. So I think a lot we can learn by exchanging with the chef and the people in Korea to see how things are done here," Franklin said.

During his stay, Franklin found that Koreas "saeujeot," or salted and fermented shrimp, is very similar to one in Vietnam.

"This creates a sense of connection between the two cuisines," the chef said, unveiling his plans to invite Korean restaurant Evett to Vietnam for a joint pop-up.

We will do a collaboration dinner. So [what] we will do [is] they'll bring four dishes from Seoul and we will do our dishes and then one collaboration dish. We will create a menu together with wine pairing to get people in Vietnam to experience a little bit of modern Korean food. And then mixed with a little bit of modern Vietnamese food give them a special experience," Franklin said.

Johanne Siy, head chef of Singapore-based Lolla and last year's Asias Best Female Chef, works to elevate her home country the Philippines' cuisine to the global stage by adding a modern twist. During the session, Siy introduced five fermented foods that are a permanent fixture in Filipino dishes, from preserved pickles to fish and rice.

Filipino cuisine I don't think a lot of people outside the Philippines know much about it. So it's almost like I feel very honored to have that opportunity to talk about the food, Siy said. I actually really enjoyed today's session. I found the sessions very enlightening, because everything is so interconnected. And we have more things in common than differences. And that came out very strongly to me.

Hong Kong-born Richie Lin paid homage to his adopted home of Taiwan in his restaurant Mume in Taipei. Lin highlighted the importance of pineapple, a major ingredient and integral part of Taiwan's agriculture, in his culinary creations, demonstrating how he incorporates pineapples and soybeans into his fermentation processes.

The chef-mixologist duo Niyati Rao and Jishnu AJ of Ekaa, from Mumbai, India, introduced Indias rich heritage, diversity of ingredients and culinary evolution. They presented Indian fermented drinks such as kanji and novel uses of indigenous ingredients for fermentation in modern cuisine.

Rao said this is a great time to be a chef. The world is so open to having new conversations about food. And they're open to knowing about each other, respecting each other's cultures and cuisines. Food is one thing that can end wars. And that will bring us so close," Rao said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that he is working to ensure that nearly Rs 3,000 crore "looted" from poor people in West Bengal and attached by the Enforcement Directorate is returned to them.

Modi made this assertion in a telephonic conversation with Amrita Roy, a member of erstwhile royalty and BJP candidate against TMC's Mahua Moitra in Krishnanagar Lok Sabha constituency, and claimed that power and not country is the priority of opposition parties.

"PM Modi told 'Rajmata' Amrita Roy that he is exploring legal options to ensure that the money looted from the poor goes back to them through whatever assets and money the ED has attached from the corrupt," a BJP leader said.

According to the details of the conversation shared by the party, the prime minister put the amount of money, which was paid by people in the state as bribe for getting jobs, at Rs 3,000 crore.

He told her to inform people about his stand and asserted that soon after coming back to power he will find a way, including making legal provisions if needed, to do so.

Modi also took a swipe at the Congress for its support to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal following his arrest by the ED in a corruption case, saying those who made complaint against the AAP have now changed tack to help it. He, though, did not name anyone.

"This shows that their priority is not country but power," he said, asserting that the BJP-led alliance is fighting for a corruption-free country for the bright future of the youth while all the corrupt have come together on the other side to save each other.

With Roy tracing her lineage to 18th century local king Krishnachandra Roy, Modi hit back at those who have targeted the erstwhile royalty for its alleged support to the British after the BJP named her its candidate.

She told Modi that her family is being called traitors and noted that Krishnachandra Roy worked for people and joined hands with other kings to save "Sanatan Dharma".

He asked her to not take any pressure, saying that they (TMC) practice vote bank politics and will make all kinds of wild allegations. They do so to hide their sins, he said.

On the one hand they seek evidence of Lord Ram's existence while on the other they cite incidents dating back to two and three centuries to defame others, he said.

"This is their double standards," Modi said, praising the king's legacy of social reforms and development and asking her to carry forward his legacy.

Expressing confidence of her win, he asked Roy to be ready with the agenda for the first 100 days for her constituency.

He also expressed confidence that West Bengal will vote for "Parivartan" (change) in the state.

The alleged corruption of the state's ruling Trinamool Congress leaders is one of the main planks of the BJP in the state, as it has highlighted the arrest of some of them, including former minister Partha Chatterjee, and recovery of large amounts of money and other assets from them to target its rivals.

"You have the challenge to save Bengal's heritage," he told her.

She said people have expressed their confidence in the Modi government's work and told her that Moitra, the incumbent TMC MP from the constituency, will go to jail, drawing laugher from the prime minister.

Moitra is facing probe in a corruption case for allegedly allowing a businessman to use her parliamentary log-in in return of bribe and other favours.

She has termed the businessman her friend and refuted the corruption charges, blaming the BJP for it.

Roy told Modi that people during her campaign have spoken about corruption and unkept promises of the state government.

The BJP had won 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state in 2019 in what was seen as a surge in its fortunes and it is looking to boost its tally this time round.
US defence leaders pressed their Israeli counterparts Tuesday to ensure that any military operation in the southern city of Rafah unfold in phases to protect civilians and secure the delivery of aid, a senior Pentagon official said. Israel's defence minister was receptive, the official said, but it's not clear what impact the meeting will have on Israeli plans for Gaza or on growing tensions between the two nations.

US leaders have consistently warned against a ground invasion of Rafah and pressed for an alternative, more precise operation. The senior defence official described the 90-minute meeting at the Pentagon as very productive and "really quite meaty", but demurred when asked if Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sought to condition future US military aid to Israel on an improvement of the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Austin said the US will continue to stand up for Israel's right to defend itself in accordance with the law of armed conflict and international humanitarian law, said the official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity to describe a private meeting.

The meeting, which also included Gen CQ Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, comes as tensions have spiked between the US and Israel, stemming from the widespread global frustration over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and political discord surrounding efforts to achieve a ceasefire.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said in a statement that they discussed the "important cooperation between the Israeli and US defence establishments to ensure Israel's qualitative military edge in the region".

The US defence official said the Israeli forces should use precision targeting, which has been effective against Hamas leaders elsewhere in Gaza. The official declined to provide details about Gallant's response.

"It was a very good conversation today between the secretary and the minister. They know each other well. They trust each other. They are friends. And so the sharing of the secretary's ideas, I would say, yes, was met by very receptive ears," the official said.

At the start of the meeting, Austin said they would discuss alternative ways to target Hamas in Rafah, and he described civilian casualties in Gaza as "far too high" and aid deliveries as "far too low". But he also repeated the belief that Israel has the right to defend itself and the US would always be there to help.

Gallant, meanwhile, emphasised the ongoing threats to Israel, and said the meeting would address ways to destroy Hamas and get the Israeli hostages released, as well as plans to return displaced residents to their homes.

On Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu abruptly cancelled a high-level visit to Washington this week in protest over the UN Security Council decision to call for an immediate cease-fire. The US abstained, deciding not to use its veto power, and the resolution passed 14-0.

Israel says it cannot defeat Hamas without going into Rafah, where it says the group has four battalions composed of thousands of fighters. But US officials are pressing Israel to forego a ground invasion and consider other ways to defeat Hamas.

"There are ways to go about addressing the threat of Hamas, while also taking into account civilian safety. A lot of those are from lessons, our own lessons, conducting operations in urban environments," Maj Gen Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, said on Monday. "I would expect the conversations to cover those kinds of things."



Israel's offensive has killed over 32,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials, and driven a third of Gaza's population to the brink of starvation. It was launched in response to Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel, which killed some 1,200 people.

Hamas-led militants also took around 250 people hostage. They are still holding around 100 hostages, and the remains of around 30 others, after most of the rest were freed during a cease-fire last year in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners.

The Security Council resolution calls for a cease-fire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Netanyahu accused the US of "retreating" from a "principled position" by allowing the vote to pass without conditioning the cease-fire on the release of hostages.

The dispute signals an erosion in the US-Israel relationship that has been under a microscope for months as the military assault on Hamas continues, escalating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby said the US was disappointed in the decision to cancel the delegation's visit this week. He said the talks with Gallant would likely include some of what the US had planned to discuss with the Israeli delegation on the possible Rafah invasion.

Gallant met Monday with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and national security advisor Jake Sullivan. Kirby said those meetings, however, had not been intended as a replacement for the delegation meetings.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday blasted a UN Security Council resolution calling for a Gaza cease-fire that his country's top ally, the United States, chose not to block. He said the resolution had emboldened Hamas and he vowed to press ahead with the war.

As the war grinds through a sixth month, both Israel and Hamas have rejected cease-fire efforts, each insisting its version of victory is within reach. The passage of the UN resolution has also escalated tensions between the US and Israel over the conduct of the war.

Netanyahu has said Israel can only achieve its aims of dismantling Hamas and returning scores of hostages if it expands its ground offensive to the southern city of Rafah, where over half of Gaza's population has sought refuge, many in crowded tent camps. The US has said a major assault on Rafah would be a mistake.

Hamas says it will hold onto the hostages until Israel agrees to a more permanent cease-fire, withdraws its forces from Gaza and releases hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants.

It said late Monday that it rejected a recent proposal that fell short of those demands which, if fulfilled, would allow it to claim an extremely costly victory.

Netanyahu said in a statement that the announcement proved clearly that Hamas is not interested in continuing negotiations toward a deal and served as unfortunate testimony to the damage of the Security Council decision.

Israel will not surrender to Hamas' delusional demands and will continue to act to achieve all the goals of the war: releasing all the hostages, destroying Hamas' military and governing capabilities and ensuring that Gaza will never again be a threat to Israel.

Israel has killed over 32,000 Palestinians, around two-thirds of them women and children, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its tally. The fighting has left much of the Gaza Strip in ruins, displaced most its residents and driven a third of its population of 2.3 million to the brink of famine.

The Israeli military announced Tuesday that an airstrike earlier this month killed Marwan Issa, the deputy leader of Hamas' armed wing in Gaza who helped plan the Oct. 7 attack. Issa is the highest-ranking Hamas leader to have been killed in Gaza since the start of the war. Military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Issa was killed when fighter jets struck an underground compound in central Gaza between March 9 and 10.

An Israeli strike late Monday on a residential building in Rafah where three displaced families were sheltering killed at least 16 people, including nine children and four women, according to hospital records and relatives of the deceased. An Associated Press reporter saw the bodies arrive at a hospital.

In the face of Hamas' demands for a more permanent cease-fire, Netanyahu has vowed to resume Israel's offensive after any hostage release and keep fighting until the militant group is destroyed. But he has provided few details about what would follow any such victory and has largely rejected a postwar vision outlined by the US.

That approach has brought him into increasingly open conflict with President Joe Biden's administration, which has expressed mounting concern over civilian casualties though it has continued to supply Israel with crucial military aid and back Israel's aim of destroying Hamas.

The passage of Monday's resolution by the UN Security Council resolution further deepened the divisions. The resolution called for the release of all hostages held in Gaza but did not condition the cease-fire on it. The Biden administration, which vetoed previous UN resolutions calling for a cease-fire, abstained in Monday's vote, allowing it to pass.

In response, Netanyahu cancelled a planned visit by Israeli officials to Washington during which the US side was set to propose alternatives to a ground assault in Rafah.

The move raised criticism in Israeli media that Netanyahu was straining Israel's most important alliance in order to placate hard-liners in his governing coalition.

He is prepared to sacrifice Israel's relations with the United States for a short-lived political-media coup. He has completely lost it, Ben Caspit, a prominent columnist in the Israeli newspaper Maariv, wrote.

He said Netanyahu has been trying US patience by dragging his feet on ensuring more humanitarian aid gets into Gaza and on drawing up post-war plans. Now, instead of doing everything to placate them, he is flailing about like a baby throwing a tantrum.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, in Washington on a separate trip, held talks Tuesday with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and with top US defense leaders.

Ahead of the meeting, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin described civilian casualties in Gaza as far too high and aid deliveries as far too low. But he also repeated the belief that Israel has the right to defend itself and the US would always be there to help.

Gallant said he told Blinken "that Israel will not cease operating in Gaza until the return of all the hostages. Only a decisive victory will bring to an end of this war.

Hamas' top political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, said the UN resolution showed that Israel faces an unprecedented (level of) political isolation and was losing its political cover at the Security Council. He spoke at a news conference in Tehran after talks with officials in Iran, a key ally of Hamas.

The war began on October 7, when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border and attacked communities in southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 others. It is still believed to be holding about 100 hostages and the remains of 35 others, after most of the rest were freed in November in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners.

The United States, Qatar and Egypt have spent several weeks trying to negotiate another cease-fire and hostage release, but those efforts appeared to have stalled.

Majed al-Ansari, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Qatar, which is currently hosting the talks, told reporters that the negotiations were ongoing, without providing details.

Hamas has previously proposed a phased process in which it would release all the remaining hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the opening of its borders for aid and reconstruction, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants serving life sentences.
Russian officials persisted Tuesday in saying Ukraine and the West had a role in last week's deadly Moscow concert hall attack despite vehement denials of involvement by Kyiv and a claim of responsibility by an affiliate of the Islamic State group.

Without offering any evidence, Alexander Bortnikov, head of the Federal Security Service, or FSB, followed similar allegations by President Vladimir Putin, who linked the attack to Ukraine even as he acknowledged that the suspects who were arrested were "radical Islamists".

The IS affiliate claimed it carried out the attack, and US intelligence said it had information confirming the group was responsible. French President Emmanuel Macron said France also has intelligence pointing to "an IS entity" as responsible for the attack.

But despite the signs pointing to IS, Putin insisted on alleged Ukrainian involvement -- something that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected, accusing the Kremlin leader of trying to drum up fervour as his forces fight in Ukraine.

Bortnikov alleged that Western spy agencies also could have been involved in the deadliest terror attack on Russian soil in two decades, even as he acknowledged receiving a US tip about the attack.

"We believe that radical Islamists prepared the action, while Western special services have assisted it and Ukrainian special services had a direct part in it," Bortnikov said without giving details.

He repeated Putin's claim that the four gunmen were trying to escape to Ukraine when they were arrested, casting it as a proof of alleged involvement by Kyiv.

But that assertion was undercut slightly by Belarus' authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko, who said Tuesday the suspects were headed for Ukraine because they feared tight controls on the Belarus border.

Russia is still reeling from the attack Friday in which gunmen killed 139 people in the Crocus City Hall, a concert venue on the outskirts of Moscow. Health officials said about 90 people remain hospitalised, with 22 of them, including two children, in grave condition.

The four men accused of carrying out the attack appeared in a Moscow court on Sunday on terrorism charges and showed signs of severe beatings. One appeared to be barely conscious during the hearing.

The men are citizens of Tajikistan, authorities said, and were identified as Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev (32), Saidakrami Rachabalizoda (30), Shamsidin Fariduni (25) and Mukhammadsobir Faizov (19). They were charged with committing a terrorist attack resulting in death, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

A senior Turkish security official confirmed Tuesday that two of them spent a "short amount of time" in Turkey before travelling together to Russia on March 2.

One of the suspects, Fariduni, entered Turkey on February 20, checked into a hotel in Istanbul's Fatih district the next day, and checked out February 27, the official said. The other, Rachabalizoda, checked into a hotel in the same district on January 5, checking out on January 21.

The official said Turkish authorities believe the two "became radicalised in Russia" because they were not in Turkey for long. There was no warrant for their arrest so they were allowed to travel freely between Russia and Turkey, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to make public statements.

The Islamic State group, which lost much of its ground after Russia's military action in Syria, has long targeted Russia. In October 2015, a bomb planted by IS downed a Russian jetliner over the Sinai desert, killing all 224 people aboard, most of them Russian vacationers returning from Egypt.

The group, which operates mainly in Syria and Iraq but also in Afghanistan and Africa, also has claimed several attacks in Russia's volatile Caucasus and other regions in the past years. It recruited fighters from Russia and other parts of the former Soviet Union.

On Monday, Putin warned that more attacks could follow, alleging possible Western involvement. He didn't mention the warning about a possible imminent terrorist attack that the US shared confidentially with Moscow two weeks before the raid.

Three days before the attack, Putin denounced the US Embassy's March 7 notice urging Americans to avoid crowds in Moscow, including concerts, calling it an attempt to frighten Russians and "blackmail" the Kremlin ahead of the presidential election.

Bortnikov said Russia was thankful for the warning but described it as very general.

"The information about preparations for terror attacks in large gatherings of people was of a general nature," he said. "Of course, we reacted to that information and took corresponding measures to prevent such incidents."



He added that the FSB acted on the tip, targeting a group of suspects he didn't identify but which eventually proved false.

"We are thankful, of course, but we would like to see more specifics," Bortnikov said.
Two of the four Kerala-based youths who fought in the war against Ukraine after being recruited into the Russian army by private agencies will soon return home to their families, Union Minister of State (Mos) for External Affairs V Muraleedharan has said.

The MoS said on Tuesday evening that the Indian Embassy was readying their travel documents to return from Russia.

"We expect that they will soon return home," Muraleedharan, who is contesting from the Attingal Lok Sabha constituency in the upcoming 2024 general elections, told reporters.

Regarding the remaining two residents of the state, the MoS said the External Affairs Ministry was in talks with the Russian government to bring them back as well.

"Rest assured we are taking strong measures to ensure their return," he said.

According to the relatives of the three men, he said that they were taken to Russia by a recruitment agency with the promise of a whopping salary of Rs 2.5 lakh.

Earlier, Muraleedharan had said that authorities have launched an investigation into agencies that recruited Indians to go to war-torn Ukraine after luring them with the promise of lucrative jobs in Russia.

He had also said that the Central government was taking all possible efforts to bring back all Indians stranded in the conflict zone, and procedures are underway to take legal action against the agencies that recruited them.
A senior North Korean official has reached a consensus with his Vietnamese counterpart on boosting cooperation and advancing their bilateral ties to a new level, Pyongyang's state media said Wednesday.

The move came during a meeting between Kim Song-nam, director of the international department at the Workers' Party, and Le Hoai Trung, secretary of the central committee and head of the central committee for foreign affairs at Vietnam's Communist Party, in Hanoi on Monday, according to the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Kim arrived in the Southeast Asian country from China for the second leg of his three-nation trip that will also take him to Laos.

The trip came as North Korea appears to be resuming diplomatic activity with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), following years of Pyongyang's COVID-19 border shutdowns.

Laos plans to host the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and other ASEAN-related meetings as this year's chair country. The annual ARF is the sole regional forum joined by North Korea.

ASEAN comprises Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore and Vietnam.

Separately, a North Korean delegation led by External Economic Relations Minister Yun Jong-ho left for Russia on Tuesday, the KCNA said, without providing further details on the purpose of the trip.

North Korea and Russia have been strengthening cooperation following a rare summit between their leaders in September. (Yonhap)
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North Korea said Wednesday it will hold an international arts festival next month on the occasion of the 112th birth anniversary of the country's late founder Kim Il-sung.

Overseas troupes have sent videos of their prerecorded performances, which will be edited and broadcast on television and online, the Korean Central News Agency said.

North Korea celebrates the birthdays of its two late leaders  current leader Kim Jong-un's grandfather and father, Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il  as two of its most important holidays.

The North has invited overseas troupes biennially to mark the late founder's birthday on April 15 but canceled the event in 2020 in the wake of COVID-19 and held the event virtually in 2022.

North Korea has yet to officially confirm or designate the birthday of Kim Jong-un, presumed to be born on Jan. 8, 1984, as a national holiday. (Yonhap)
What Is A Bleeding Disorder?

Bleeding disorders are conditions in which the blood does not clot normally because certain proteins in the blood are missing or do not work properly.

Von Willebrand Disease

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is an inherited bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly. Blood contains many proteins that help the blood clot when needed. One of these proteins is called von Willebrand factor (VWF). People with VWD either have a low level of VWF in their blood or the VWF protein doesnt work the way it should. There are three types of VWD: type 1 (the most common and mildest form of VWD), type 2, and type 3 (the most severe form of VWD).

The signs and symptoms of VWD include:

Frequent or hard-to-stop nosebleeds.

Easy bruising.

Longer-than-normal bleeding after injury, surgery, and dental work.

Women with VWD can experience heavy or abnormal bleeding during menstrual periods and after childbirth.

Hemophilia

Hemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly due to a lack or decrease in a protein called clotting factor. The two most common types of hemophilia are hemophilia A, which is due to a lack of clotting factor VIII (8) and hemophilia B, which is due to a lack of clotting factor IX (9).

The signs and symptoms of hemophilia include:

Frequent or hard-to-stop nosebleeds.

Easy bruising.

Longer-than-normal bleeding after injury, surgery, and dental work.

Bleeding into the joints. This can cause swelling and pain or tightness in the joints; it often affects the knees, elbows, and ankles.

Bleeding into the skin (which is bruising) or muscle and soft tissue causing a build-up of blood in the area (called a hematoma).

Who Is Affected by Bleeding Disorders?

VWD is the most common bleeding disorder, found in up to 1% of the U.S. population. This means that 3.2 million (or about 1 in every 100) people in the United States have the disease. Although VWD occurs among men and women equally, women are more likely to notice the symptoms because of heavy or abnormal bleeding during their menstrual periods and after childbirth.

The exact number of people with hemophilia is unknown.

With no family history of hemophilia, Eric's diagnosis was completely unexpected. Now, his diagnosis gives him purpose and a community.

The majority of hemophilia and VWD cases are inherited and there is a known family history of the disorder. However, about one-third of families with babies who are diagnosed with hemophilia report having no known history of the disorder. Both hemophilia and VWD can also be caused by a spontaneous (random) change in a mother or childs gene.

Read personal stories from people who have VWD and hemophilia to learn more about their experiences. Living with the complications of a bleeding disorder can be challenging; however, with treatment, people with bleeding disorders can manage their bleeding symptoms.

What is CDC Doing to Help People with Bleeding Disorders?

Community Counts

Community Counts is a public health monitoring program funded by CDCs Division of Blood Disorders and Public Health Genomics. The goal of Community Counts is to monitor the health of people living with hemophilia and other bleeding disorders who are receiving care at more than 140 U.S. Hemophilia Treatment Centers (HTCs).

The Community Counts program gathers and shares information from HTCs about the characteristics of people with bleeding disorders, and their treatments, bleeding symptoms, and long-term medical complications.

Data from Community Counts has informed public health and clinical guidelines and practices to prevent or reduce hemophilia-related health problems. Read a summary report on the Community Counts program, or read the full report here.

If you or someone you know has a bleeding disorder, learn more about Community Counts eligibility and participation here.

Better You Know

The Better You Know campaign, developed by the National Bleeding Disorders Foundationin partnership with the CDC, raises awareness of bleeding disorders among women and girls who may experience symptoms but have not yet been diagnosed. As many as 1% of women in the United States may have a bleeding disorder, and many do not know it. The Better You Know campaign was created to help you find out if you might be at risk for a bleeding disorder.

Women and girls can take a free, web-based risk assessment to learn whether they may be at risk for a bleeding disorder on the Better You Know webpage. If they are at risk, free tools and resources are available in English and Spanish to help them take steps towards seeking care. These resources will help women and girls receive testing as well as an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, if needed, from their healthcare providers.

Better You Know also has resources for healthcare providers and educators to increase their knowledge and awareness of bleeding disorders in women.

Visit CDCs webpage to learn more about bleeding disorders in women and girls and how you can take steps to protect your health.

Take this quiz to test your knowledge about hemophilia and VWD!
CRH completes lime divestment deal in UK

27 March 2024

In November 2023 CRH announced that its had reached an agreement to divest its lime operations in Europe to SigmaRoc for around US$1.1bn. The first phase of the deal was completed in January 2024, comprising the operations in Germany, Czech Republic and Ireland. CRH has now completed the second phase of the transaction, comprising its UK lime operations.

The final phase, concerning the assets in Poland, is due to complete later this year.

The deal includes 16 operating locations across Ireland, UK, Germany, Czech Republic and Poland. According to CRH, the combined business generated approximately US$610m in sales and US$137m in EBITDA in 2022.

Published under
By Kwak Yeon-soo

North Korea's decision to walk abruptly away from talks with Japan is due to a failure in reaching an agreement on the agenda for a possible summit between the two countries, experts said Wednesday.

Kim Yo-jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, said Tuesday the North has no interest in a summit with Japan and would reject any further negotiations.

This came just a day after she said that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had proposed a meeting with the reclusive leader.

"North Korea will pay no attention to and reject any contact and negotiations with Japan," Kim was quoted as saying by the North's official Korean Central News Agency.

She accused Japan of remaining "stuck in the past" by continuing to raise the issue of Japanese abductees and North Korea's banned nuclear weapons programs.

Experts said that Pyongyang's sudden shift in stance on Tokyo came after Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa held a press conference on Monday, saying that the abduction issue has yet to be settled.

"For Japan, the resolution of the abduction issue is the most important point," Park Won-gon, a professor of North Korean studies at Ewha Womans University, said. "Kishida won't give up the issue easily because he is facing increasing public pressure ahead of the September election."

"Kishida had expressed his intention to meet 'unconditionally' with Kim, but there are more downsides to it if he returns emptyhanded from talks with the North Korean leader," Park said.

Japan has said that North Korea abducted 17 Japanese citizens in the 1970s and 1980s. It has insisted that 12 of them are still in the North, excluding five the North let return home, following then-Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's trip to Pyongyang in 2002.

Park said that North Korea is trying to embarrass Japan, which is a tactic Kim uses frequently.

"Details about the possible bilateral talk should have been kept under wraps until the two counterparts make an agreement," he added. "But North Korea has revealed them, which is intended to embarrass his Japanese counterpart."

Cheong Seong-chang, director of the Center for Korean Peninsula Strategy at the Sejong Institute, said a Kim-Kishida summit seems unlikely unless Japan's top leader takes a creative approach toward the North that would satisfy both countries.

"The two failed to narrow down and produce an agreement on the agenda," he said. "North Korea recognized that Japan was trying to use the summit as a tool to earn domestic political interests."

"Given his low approval rating, Kishida seems unlikely to keep his grip on power. North Korea doesn't have much to lose even if a Kim-Kishida summit doesn't take place."






Hard-liner reaffirms opposition to medical school admissions quota hike

By Jun Ji-hye

Protests by the doctors community against the Yoon Suk Yeol administrations planned medical school admissions quota hike are expected to intensify as the Korea Medical Association (KMA), the countrys biggest coalition of physicians, elected a new leader who has taken a firm stance against the policy.

Lim Hyun-taek, the head of the Korean Pediatric Association, was picked to lead the KMA, Tuesday, after thousands of trainee doctors walked off their jobs more than a month ago and medical professors began tendering resignations en masse to protest the governments plan to add 2,000 slots to the admissions quota of the countrys 40 medical schools starting next year.

Lim has been one of the strongest opponents of the government's quota hike plan, going as far as asserting that the current quota should be reduced by 500 to 1,000 instead.

His three-year tenure for the organization, which represents about 100,000 doctors who mainly operate local clinics, will officially commence on May 1. However, he is expected to initiate actions soon to halt the government's plan.

After his election win was confirmed, Lim reaffirmed his hard-line stance, saying, The KMA will launch a general strike if any of trainee doctors, medical professors or students are affected by the governments administrative and legal actions.

The government has classified the trainee doctors' collective action as "illegal" and took steps to suspend the licenses of those who defy its return-to-work order.

Lim also demanded that Yoon make an official apology for pushing ahead with the policy and fire Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong and Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo, saying these are conditions for dialogue with the government.

His election as the KMA leader is expected to complicate the governments ongoing attempt to hold talks with the doctors community to resolve the protracted health care standoff, which has already caused significant disruptions to medical services.

He claimed that Korea would not require many doctors in the future due to the population decline to be caused by the falling birthrate.

On March 19, Lim filed complaints with the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials against the health minister and vice health minister for abusing their authority and interfering with the exercise of doctors rights.

Last month, Lim was referred to the prosecution for disobeying the request of the Presidential Security Service to change seats during a government-public debate presided over by Yoon at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital.

At that time, Lim asserted that presidential security officials were overly aggressive in pulling him from the crowd and shared a photo taken at the scene to support his claim.

Separately, the police investigation is currently ongoing after the Ministry of Health and Welfare filed a complaint against Lim for aiding and abetting the collective action by trainee doctors.

On Wednesday, the KMA's emergency response committee asked Yoon to retract the quota hike plan and meet with striking trainee doctors on strike to find a breakthrough.

During a media briefing, Park said Lim's threat to lead a general strike implies that doctors believe they are above the law.

"Corresponding measures should be taken against the violation of the law. The government's position regarding this remains unchanged," the vice minister said.

He also said Lim's call to reduce the medical school admission quota differs significantly from the government's stance. Park reiterated that the decision to increase the quota by 2,000 slots was made based on scientific research and is therefore non-negotiable.

Still, Park renewed calls on the doctors' community to agree to engage in dialogue with the government.

Park added that the government will provide more fiscal policy support for health care systems next year, including financial support to improve the working environment for trainee doctors and raise the quality of medical education and training.

This plan comes in an apparent effort to appease trainee doctors who have complained about their excessive working hours and raised concerns over potential harmful effects on medical education and training caused by the quota expansion.
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A non-custodial father accused of kidnapping his three-year-old son from his Rossville home was apprehended within two and a half hours Tuesday by Rutherford County Sheriffs deputies in Murfreesboro, Tn.Parent John Kavin Samples, 26, of Utah, was wanted for taking his son from the boys mothers home in Rossville, said Walker County Detective Jonathan Camp.Samples earlier visited his son in Rossville. As he prepared to leave Monday night, he forcibly kidnapped the child from his mother in the presence of his older sister while in the possession of a firearm, Detective Camp said.The custodial mother chased them, Det.Camp said. Samples put the child in the van and got into the drivers seat. The mother opened the door to save him and Samples girlfriend, Anjela Baker, allegedly handed him a gun."He pointed it at the mother and tried to shoot her but missed, Detective Camp said. He tried to hit her with the car and drove away.Walker County Sheriffs Patrol Sgt. Thomas Agredano, Cpl. Jacob Russ and Deputy Jarred Almeida responded within five minutes and obtained pertinent information about Samples and the vehicle he drove.They notified the Tennessee Highway Patrol and other law enforcement agencies along Interstate 24 with a description of Samples and the vehicle.Walker County Sheriff Steve Wilson said deputies used technology showing the vehicle was located in Murfreesboro. THP relayed the information to the Rutherford County Sheriffs Office.Rutherford County Sheriffs Sgt. Ethan Shenefield said Deputy Luis Ramirez saw the vehicle at a Shell station on Old Fort Parkway. He followed the vehicle onto Interstate 24 until he and other deputies stopped Samples near the Interstate 840 exit. Deputies involved in the stop included Lt. Trey Nunley, Shenefield, Sgt. April Haggard, Cpl. Markis Woods, Deputies Riley Dunmyer, Tyler Marks, Tyler Cravens, and James Driver and Detective Andrew Quintal.Deputy Ramirez charged Samples and Ms. Baker, 30, of Ogden, Utah, with being fugitives from justice. They were booked into Rutherford County Adult Detention Center where they are being held for Walker County Sheriffs Office. A hearing on the fugitive charges and extradition is set April 8 in General Sessions Court.Rutherford County Detective Christina Overton said Samples son was returned to a family member. The Department of Childrens Services took custody of Ms. Bakers five-year-old daughter and her six-month-old baby, who is Samples child.Detective Overton recovered a firearm in the vehicle driven by Samples.Detective Camp obtained warrants charging Samples with aggravated assault of the family violence act, kidnapping, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony, cruelty to a child first-degree of his son and his sons sister and home invasion first degree.Ms. Baker is being charged with kidnapping and conspiracy to commit aggravated assault.Detective Camp thanked everyone who treated the case as a serious situation and no one suffered injuries.It is my strongest belief it saved this childs life, he said. I was concerned for the potential this situation had to result in a violent confrontation with law enforcement.Sheriff Wilson said he was pleased with the technology that helped locate Samples and the partnership of both sheriffs offices to take them into custody without anyone being injured.The main thing is it happened without anyone else being harmed and lives lost, he said. Im proud of our office.Rutherford County Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh said this case shows the professionalism and dedication deputies have working with law enforcement counterparts in Tennessee and other states.This is a very tragic incident that because of the quick action of our deputies fortunately had a happy ending, Sheriff Fitzhugh said.
NW China's Ningxia launches special trains for culinary tourism

People's Daily Online) 13:15, March 27, 2024

An attendant dances aboard a "malatang tour" train. (Photo/Gu Tianshuo)

Recently, the city of Tianshui in northwest China's Gansu Province has gained online popularity thanks to malatang, a local street dish consisting of fresh vegetables and meat boiled in a fiery, spicy broth.

Similarly, in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, the unique spicy hotpot dish lahuhu has been trending on Chinese social media.

To cater to the growing interest in these regional delicacies, the Yinchuan Passenger Section of the China Railway Lanzhou Group Co. Ltd. launched a pair of high-speed trains connecting Yinchuan Railway Station in Ningxia's capital to Tianshui South Railway Station from March 22 to 24.

On March 24, the Yinchuan Passenger Transport Section and the Culture and Tourism Bureau of Xixia District, Yinchuan, jointly hosted an art performance on train C9631, which traveled from Tianshui to Yinchuan.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Korea and the European Union (EU) have agreed to conduct joint research projects on advanced semiconductor and next-generation communications network technologies in the next three years, Seoul's science ministry said Wednesday.

Under the agreement, Korea and the EU will jointly invest 12 million euros ($12.98 million) on neuromorphic computing and heterogeneous integration of semiconductors by 2027.

The two sides will also funnel 5 million euros into the fifth and sixth generation network technologies.

They also plan to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, quantum technology and cybersecurity. (Yonhap)
County Commissioner Chip Baker said Wednesday that county government needs a more independent and transparent process overseeing county government auditing.

He said he was asked to look into the matter last December by Commission Chairman Jeff Eversole and came up with a proposal for a new five-member county audit committee.

Three of the members will be private citizens with auditing and financial expertise and two will be County Commission members.

The present Audit Committee, that is headed by Commissioner David Sharp, will go away.

Commissioner Baker said Amie Haun, who previously was on the City Auditing Committee, will help spearhead the new oversight.

Commissioner Sharpe strongly backed the idea. He said, "When you are improving accountability and transparency, how can that be wrong?"

County Mayor Weston Wamp said it did not appear the new oversight was meant to be "antagonistic" to the current auditing program, though he said there was some concern that County Auditor Chris McCollough and County Finance Director Lee Brouner were not contacted about the idea.

However, City Auditor Stan Sewell was asked for input.

Commissioner Joe Graham said, "There's a thing called redundancy. We already have a full auditing staff."

Commissioner Greg Beck said, "Why don't we fire our whole audit department and hire these people? Who audits this committee - God? It just doesn't make sense. It rises to the level of overdoing something."

He added, "We have an adequate auditing department. If we find they are not adequate, then we can come up with a new auditing department."

Commissioner Gene-o Shipley asked, "Do we suspect we have fraud in this county government?" Ms. Haun replied, "Not that I've heard."

Commissioner Shipley asked Ms. Haun if she was to be paid, and she said no.

She gave a detailed presentation, saying the committee could brainstorm and take tips from community members to help improve county auditing.

Chairman Eversole cited some issues, including the fact that almost $100,000 in legal fees were paid by a county credit card. Mr. Brouner said that was done because the county gets a two percent rebate using the credit card and would save $2,000 over other payment methods.

Chairman Eversole also said there had been some 3,000 transactions through Amazon using a county credit card. He said, "You can't tell me that's not an opportunity to do wrong."

Auditor McCollough said he would welcome the help of the new panel.

Commissioner Baker said the current audit staff members "do a great job. This is just an added layer of support."

He said the resolution that the commission is to vote on next Wednesday setting up the new committee has the approval of the state Comptroller's Office.

The resolution says the new committee would have these responsibilities: (1) to address practices, policies and procedures within County government addressing the following: (a) financial reporting; (b) risk management and internal controls; (c) information technology and security; (d) compliance with laws and regulations; (e) financial and other banking practices; (f) ethics policies; and (g) internal audit; (2) to establish a policy and procedure of confidential reporting of suspected illegal, improper, wasteful, or fraudulent activities by county officials and/or employees; and (3) to annually present not less than thirty (30) days prior to the County Commissions consideration of the Countys upcoming fiscal year budget a written committee report detailing how it has discharged its duties and specify any committee recommendations to the full County Commission; and (4) to possess such other duties, responsibilities, and privileges as authorized by the laws of the State of Tennessee, including but not limited to Tennessee Code Annotated Section 9-3-405, and Resolution No. 313-22."

It also says the new audit committee "shall consist of five (5) appointed individuals. There shall be no more than two (2) appointees being members of the legislative body serving at any one (1) time; and the remaining three (3) appointees shall be residents of Hamilton County. The non-legislative body appointees shall be either certified public accountants, certified fraud examiners, certified internal auditors, or accountants familiar with government accounting principles or having an investment/banking background; and external to management within Hamilton County Government. In order to create staggered terms each initial non-legislative body appointee shall be appointed to serve either a three (3), two (2), or one (1) year term, with the opportunity to be reappointed for additional terms. The maximum number of years any non-legislative body appointee shall serve will be nine (9) years. The legislative body appointees shall serve a term commensurate with their respective elected term in office. Three (3) members of the audit committee being present shall constitute a quorum."

Commissioner Warren Mackey praised the auditing committee idea, but, concerning oversight and transparency, he said he is still "ticked off" that with the new administration he was told he could no longer talk directly with Mr. Brouner.

He said, "Instead, I was told I had to deal with a vice-mayor "who doesn't know his head from a hole in the ground."
The National Guard shared a series of photos honoring their fallen brother on social media.

Sister Wives star Garrison Brown was honored by the Nevada National Guard for his military service in a ceremony attended by his extended family and friends. The images showed the Brown family as they continued to mourn the loss of their son, brother, and friend. Fans call the photos devastating.

Garrison Browns military memorial service honored the late National Guardsman

The Nevada National Guard paid tribute to Robert Garrison Brown with a ceremony honoring his military work. In a series of photos, the Sister Wives stars were front and center as they mourned Garrison, who died on March 4, 2024.

Garrisons fellow National Guardsman attended the ceremony. In a photograph, the company was standing in the front of the room near a photo of the 25-year-old on duty.

The photos were posted to the Nevada National Guards Facebook page. Fans called the images devastating, heart-wrenching, and heartbroken.

On behalf of everyone in the US who loved him and his sweet momma, we thank you. All of us are heartbroken with her, wrote one fan.

The loss is tremendous. We feel it all for the family. My condolences to the Browns, penned a second Facebook poster.

A third fan noted, This is a beautiful tribute. I wish there were enough words to say to give them comfort. I am just so sorry for their devastating loss.

This is so heart-wrenching. This poor family. It hurts my heart to see Janelle and the pain she must be in. Rest in peace, Garrison, a fourth fan exclaimed.

The National Guard paid tribute to Sister Wives star Garrison Brown

The Nevada National Guard memorialized Garrison Brown with a thoughtful Facebook post about his life and service in the United States military. This statement accompanied the series of 14 images.

It read, Soldiers from the 1st Squadron, 221st Cavalry, along with friends and family, gathered yesterday at the Clark County Armory to honor the memory of Staff Sgt. Robert Garrison Brown, who passed away on March 4th. Brown, a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, was born to Janelle and Kody Brown and was the sixth child of a large family.

He is survived by his family and three cats, Catthew, Patches, and Ms. Buttons. Preceding him were Sheryl Lee Brown, William Winn Brown, and Curtis Taylor Brown. Known for his adventurous spirit, Brown traveled extensively, exploring multiple countries and continents.

As a Staff Sergeant in the Army National Guard and a proud CAV Scout, Brown exemplified dedication to his country. He also had a caring nature, pursuing a career in nursing to help others.

The statement concludes, Browns friends and family remember him for his sense of humor and ability to connect with others. His passing has left a void in their hearts. His memory serves as a reminder to cherish loved ones and prioritize compassion.

The Nevada National Guard closed out their passage by sharing phone numbers where those in need could find support. They cited the state psychological health manager/therapist, the state Chaplains office, and the suicide and crisis hotline.

Which members of the Sister Wives family attended Garrison Browns military memorial service?

Garrison and Janelle Brown in a scene still from Season 18 of TLCs Sister Wives | TLC

The Sister Wives cast, who are Garrison Browns immediate family members, attended his National Guard memorial service as well as a private funeral service held in Arizona. However, not all his family members were present at the Nevada ceremony.

In the front row of the National Guard memorial service were Janelle Brown, her son Hunter, Kody Browns mother Genielle Brown, Robyn and Kody Brown, David Wooley, and Christine Brown. Truley Brown sat next to Christine, followed by Ysabel and Savannah Brown.

Behind Janelle sat Garrisons brother Gabriel Brown, his brother Logan, Logans wife Michelle Petty, and Hunters girlfriend Audrey. Audrey Kriss, Leon Brown, Aspyn Brown, and her husband Mitch Thompson followed.

Across the aisle sat Meri Brown, Gwendlyn Brown, her wife Beatriz Queiroz, Mykelti Padron, and her husband, Tony. Assorted members of Christine and Kody Browns extended family and Robyn Browns immediate family attended.

Brown family members not pictured were Maddie Brown, Janelles daughter, and Robyn Browns children Dayton, Aurora, Breanna, Solomon, and Ariella. It is unclear if any of them attended the ceremony.

Sister Wives airs on TLC. The series is currently on hiatus.
If youve ever attended a liturgical church during Holy Week, youve likely recited the Apostles Creeda confession that affirms the climactic events of Jesus life.

At the heart of this confession, between the phrases was crucified, died, and was buried and on the third day he rose again from the dead, youll find the mysterious (and some might say pesky) phrase he descended into Hell.

Although its largely overlooked in evangelical churches, dwarfed by the giants of Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, Holy Saturday in the liturgical calendar commemorates the day when Jesus body laid dead in the grave. But it also honors the Harrowing of Hellan idea that traces back to a handful of verses in the New Testament referring to Jesus debated descent into the netherworld.

After all, one verse reads, What does he ascended mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? (Eph. 4:9). For After being made alive, [Christ] went and made proclamation to the imprisoned spiritsto those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built (1 Pet. 3:1820). Later, Peter adds, For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does (1 Pet. 4:6, ESV).

That these (and other) verses imply that Christ descended into hell is an interpretation discarded by a number of respected Christian thinkers including Wayne Grudem and John Piper, who argues theres no textual basis for it. Such dissenters either dismiss the line altogether or align themselves with John Calvin, who believed the descent clause refers to Jesus physical and spiritual torment on the cross on Good Friday.

Even among those who do believe in a literal descent, theres a wide spectrum of views. Some people think Christ raided hell to ransom the righteous of the Old Testamenta view Scott McKnight says in a CT article is the classical theology of Holy Saturday. Others believe the above verses instead signal a proclamation that Jesus victory extends all the way to the lowest regions in the place of the dead.

Still others, particularly in the Eastern Orthodox tradition, see the Harrowing of Hell as part of the larger biblical narrative that Christ the conqueror defeats death completely and rescues many (or all) of the inhabitants of a now-dismantled Sheol. But this view has never been incorporated into the churchs official doctrine, since it can invite universalist interpretationsfor instance, if the imprisoned spirits of 1 Peter 3 got a second chance, might others too?

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To unpack all the ins and outs of theological debate over the centuries is beyond the scope of this article. But regardless of what you believe about the specifics of Christs descent, every confessing Christian believes that Christ was, in fact, dead in the grave. And this single biblically verifiable truth has just as much to say to those of us who still find ourselves in the land of the living.

Few (if any) mysteries have held more sway on the human imagination than the enigma of what follows our final breath on earth. Whats beyond the flat line of asystoleand to where do the departed depart? And while some today might feign a secular indifference, a quick glance through the oldest myths shows the near-universal concern our remotest ancestors had with understanding and preparing for death and the world of the dead.

But first, its important to note that the word hell has a confusing etymologyeven as it has captivated the imaginations of people and literature throughout history.

Image: WikiMedia Commons

Image: WikiMedia Commons

Most ancient Near Eastern people groups left detailed accounts of their underworlds, including the Sumerians The Descent of Inanna, the Egyptians Book of the Dead, and the Greeks grim vision of Hades. By contrast, the only Hebrew word the Israelites had for hell was Sheol, which vaguely refers to a shadowy dwelling place for the dead. It shows up only 66 times in the Old Testament and is translated variously in our English Bibles as the pit, the grave, the abyss, and even hell. Sheol was translated to Hades in the Greek Septuagint, as opposed to Gehenna, the Greek word for a different compartment of the underworld seen as a place of judgment and destruction.

Epic poems like Dantes Inferno (based on the Roman poet Virgils account of Aeneass descent into the underworld) famously paints a Christianized take on the Greco-Roman vision of Hades, which informed medieval plays and other depictions of the Harrowing of Hell. Christs descent echoes the mythic pattern of a heroic figure whose journey takes him into the underworld to discover a life-changing truth or to accomplish an impossible tasksuch as rescuing a dead beloved soul or setting captives freeand to return alive and victorious.

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You can see this ancient narrative pattern (or mytheme, as comparative mythologists would say) in all sorts of different stories today, from The Matrix to Harry Potter. The ubiquitous presence of the mythic hero theme has been used by intellectual opponents of Christianity to diminish the uniqueness and significance of our faith claims about Jesus Christ.

In 1890, for instance, anthropologist and folklorist James George Frazer published the first edition of The Golden Bough, which captivated readers with his comparative retellings of myths. He claimed Jesus was just another example of the dying-and-rising-god myth to emerge from the mists of ancient pagan religion. And while scholars have long since dismissed most of Frazers speculative conclusions, his concepts live on in the works of Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, and many other secular thinkers influenced by this archetype.

Even today, modern skeptics of Christianity will use this rationale to reinterpret Jesus death and resurrection as nothing more than imitative elements of those ancient stories. Such parallels, they believe, negate the exclusivity of truth that Christians profess. And yet, at the same time, the similarities between pre-Christ myths and the story of Christ have also inspired the intellects and imaginations of some of the greatest Christian thinkers and storytellers of the 20th century.

In fact, in an infamous conversation on Addisons Walk at Oxfords Magdalen College, one agnostic-turned-theist named Jack (also known as C. S.) Lewis discussed these mythic connections with two believing friends, J. R. R. Tolkien and Hugo Dyson. Lewis realized that believing in the person of Jesus did not mean throwing away the old myths of ancient civilizations but rather finding in Christ the true and ultimate fulfillment of these myths. He later wrote:

Now the story of Christ is simply a true myth: a myth working on us in the same way as the others, but with this tremendous difference that it really happened: and one must be content to accept it in the same way, remembering that it is Gods myth where the others are mens myths: i.e., the Pagan stories are God expressing Himself through the minds of poets, using such images as He found there, while Christianity is God expressing Himself through what we call real things.

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This conviction pulsates through the writings of the Inklings, the group to which Lewis, Tolkien, Dyson, and a few others of the same ilk belonged. Like Dante, their works are filled with allusions to their mythological preoccupations, not least the journey in the underworld and rescuing king mythemes.

Think of the scene in Tolkiens The Return of the King, where Aragorn, heir to the throne of Gondor, must enter the Paths of the Dead through gates inscribed with an eerie warning: The way is shut. It was made by those who are Dead. And the Dead keep it, until the time comes. The way is shut (emphasis added). There, the Dead Men are cursed to remain trapped under a mountain for their grave sin of oath breakingwaiting until the king returns to give them a second chance to fulfill their oath.

Image: WikiMedia Commons

Then, of course, theres Lewiss own The Great Divorce, where the narrator is driven from hell to heaven by a bus driver named George MacDonaldnamed after the 19th-century Scottish poet and novelist who profoundly shaped Lewis theology and storytelling, like Virgil did for Dante. Charles Williams, another (lesser-known) Inkling, even wrote a novel titled Descent into Hellwhich brings us back to the Apostles Creed and the dying and rising pattern of Jesus Christ.

One difference in the true myth of Christ is that he calls his followers to imitate his pattern of dying and rising. Jesus tells his followers to deny themselves and take up their own crosses (Luke 9:23), or instruments of death, and Paul says to Count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus (Rom. 6:11). But like Christs death, ours is not without purpose. As Jesus said, Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds (John 12:24).

A more theological word for dying to self is mortification, as symbolized in the sacrament of baptism. A believer who is plunged into the waters symbolically dies with Christ while also dying to the sinful state of the flesh. Much like being born again (John 3:3), the Christian emerges from the waters, symbolically rising again in Christs conquering victory over sin and death. Thus begins the process of vivification, as the life of a believer is renewed in and for God.

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In baptism, we reenact the path Jesus himself paved for us in his descent and return from the underworld through our own immersion and resurfacing. Jesus pierced the very belly of the beast of death in his journey from the grave to the right hand of Godtraveling from the bed of Sheol to the heavens (Ps.139:8). With a love to match the scope of his heroic task, Christ tore the curtain of the temple so that the holiness of God could dwell in and among us through the church as the body of Christ.

The Harrowing of Hell reminds us of our Saviors willingness to go before us as a seed, dying to bring forth an otherwise impossible fruit. But as we imitate and follow him, we encounter what can be the hardest part of the mortification and vivication process: patience. Just as as seeds can often lay dormant in the soil for months or even years before sprouting, the process of growing in sanctification involves waiting on Gods promise to make all things new (Rev. 21:5).

While God did not spell out for us the specifics of Jesus itinerary in hell, we can take heart as we face our own journeys into the valley of the shadow of death (Ps. 23:4), that Jesus, our true epic hero, has already gone before us and overcome the world (John 16:33). Christ alone is the true myth of human historythe dying and rising God incarnate who embodies every storys truest thread. And in his faithfulness we can find, as the old hymn goes, strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.

Raed Truett Gilliam is associate producer with CT media.
In the summer of 2022, I visited the charming Alpine town of Oberammergau, Germany. I wandered its leafy streets lined with mural-painted houses, their balconies overflowing with flower boxes.

After indulging in ice cream and shopping for the towns famed woodcarvings, I settled in my seat for a five-and-a-half-hour performance of Jesus final week on earth. Since 1634, Oberammergau has put on a Passion play involving almost all its residents, first staged in thanksgiving for the end of a bubonic plague outbreak. Normally the performances take place in the first year of a new decade (2000, 2010, etc.), but the new plague of COVID-19 delayed 2020s play by two years.

Scores of buses were depositing tourists from many foreign countries. Looking around, I saw groups from China, Japan, and Korea, in addition to many Europeans and Americans. That summer, almost half a million people would travel to secular Germany to sit through this presentation of Jesus passion, spoken and sung in a language that few in the crowd could understand.

What attracted them? I wondered. At one point, more than a thousand actors filled the stage, shouting in guttural German, Kreuzige ihn! (Crucify him!) The audience fell silent as Pilates soldiers tortured and mocked their prisoner.

Some in my tour group criticized the play for shortchanging the Resurrection; after all, only 3 of the librettos 132 pages focused on that seminal event. Yet the ratio reflects the Gospels accounts, which give far more attention to the ordeal of trials and crucifixion than to the triumphant conclusion. The criticism, however, raised a question: Would a tradition such as Oberammergaus have persisted for four centuries if all it commemorated were a notable persons death?

In Beijings Tiananmen Square and Moscows Red Square, respectively, I have watched thousands of people stand in line to view the preserved bodies of Mao Zedong and Vladimir Lenin. Martyrs too may achieve an honored place in historical memory: Abraham Lincoln, Joan of Arc, Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhiand in recent days, Alexei Navalny.

Is that how we would remember Jesus, apart from Easter?

During his last meal with the disciples before his arrest, Jesus tried to explain the momentous changes underway. John 1317 records much of the dialogue, in which Jesus foretells the future. One of you is going to betray me, he says, and identifies the culprit (13:2127). He tells them that he, their leader, is departing, but not really; in some ways hell be even closer. More than ever before, he makes his identity clear, causing Philip to puzzle over the sensational claim, Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father (14:9).

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Two assertions that evening must have haunted his disciples in the days to come. The first: In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world (16:33). Within a few hours, the disciples would witness Jesus arrest and an excruciating sequence of abuse and execution reserved for the worst of criminals. This is how he overcomes the world? It was too much to swallow for Peter, who first showed bravado by brandishing a sword on Jesus behalf (18:1011). Soon, though, he would follow Judas in a three-fold act of betrayal (13:38; 18:27).

The second mind-bending assertion: But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away (16:7). The disciples were still basking in the glow of Palm Sunday, just a few days before, when shouts of Hosanna! Blessed is the king of Israel! echoed through the streets of Jerusalem (12:13). They were anticipating glory, the smug reward of loyalists who have cast their lots with a conquering hero. Jesus abruptly redefined glory by washing their feetagainst Peters protestand by naming the greatest love as laying down ones life for ones friends (13:117; 15:13).

I sympathize with the disciples bafflement. Wouldnt it have been better if Jesus had stayed on earth? How differently would Christian history have unfolded if we had a Pope Jesus to veto the Crusades and Inquisitions, ban slavery, and answer our questions about ethical matters such as just wars and gender issues?

But Jesus outlined the ways in which his departure could be construed as good. He would bring about a new kind of intimacy: I no longer call you servants  Instead, I have called you friends (15:15). Drawing on a familiar analogy, he likened their new closeness to a grape branchs connection to the vine (15:116). In short, he was elevating human agency so that his followers would do the work of God, just as he had done. Moreover, by leaving earth, he would open the way for Gods Spirit, the Advocate, to come and provide the nourishment and wisdom they needed (14:26; 16:7).

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Although reclining around the same table, Jesus and his disciples viewed reality very differently. Jesus reminisced cosmically about a time before the creation of the world (17:24), while the Twelve (now the Eleven) could barely remember their lives before this strange rabbi ordered them to follow him. Jesus saw the prince of this world (14:30) coming for him through Judass treachery, whereas the disciples thought Judas was running an errand. Jesus foresaw the persecution to come, the descent into Hades, his resurrection and return to the Father; the disciples murmured among themselves, We dont understand what he is saying (16:18).

Easter changed everything, but not all at once. A Hollywood script would have had Jesus appearing on Pilates porch on Monday morning, with a choir of angels booming, Hes back!

Jesus showed less drama, the kind of low-key approach depicted at Oberammergau. He surprised women at the empty tomb, joined a couple of old friends on the way to Emmaus, mysteriously appeared in a locked room to address Thomass doubts, and gave a fishing lesson to some disciples who had returned to their former occupations in Galilee.

After about six weeks of such random sightings, the disciples gathered again, still unsure about the future. Would Jesus remain on earth after all? If not, what did he expect of them? In the first meeting with the disciples after his resurrection, Jesus had commissioned them: As the Father has sent me, I am sending you (John 20:21). And at the Ascension, he literally turned over the mission to the ragtag group that was still hoping he would revive their faded dreams of glory.

Its up to you now, he said in effect. Jesus had healed diseases, cast out demons, and brought comfort and solace to the poor, the oppressed, and the sufferingbut only in one small corner of the Roman empire. Now he was setting loose his followers to take that same message to Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the earth.

Two thousand years later, 3 billion people around the world identify as followers of Jesus. The message he brought has spread to Europe, Asia, and every other continent. The chance of that spread without the jolting event we celebrate as Easter is vanishingly small. Before his resurrection, Jesus few followers were denying him and hiding from the temple police. Even afterward, Thomas doubted until he saw proof in flesh and scars. But as they came to understand what had happened in the Resurrection, the disciples were able to glimpse Jesus cosmic view.

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At the end of that poignant Last Supper described in John 1317, Jesus prayed for all who would follow. My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me, he said. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me (17:2023).

How are we doing, we Jesus followers in the 21st century? We should be known for our unity and our confident hope, for we are not of the world any more than I am of the world, as Jesus prayed (17:14). If we truly believe Jesus has risen and let that reality soak in, it should help calm fear and anxiety over such matters as the economy, the 2024 elections, and global unrest. To the watching world, followers of Jesus should stand out as peacemakers: as bridge people committed to love, not despise, our opponentseven our enemies.

A friend of mine was stopped dead in her tracks by a skeptic. After listening to her explain her faith, he said this: But you dont act like you believe God is alive.

I try to turn the skeptics accusation into a question: Do I act like God is alive? It is a good question, one I must ask myself again every day.

Philip Yancey is the author of many books including, most recently, the memoir Where the Light Fell.
President Yoon Suk Yeol met U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy on Wednesday and received the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award, five months after being honored by the U.S. foundation, the presidential office said.

The ambassador, honorary president of the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation and the daughter of the late U.S. president, handed over a sterling silver lantern symbolizing the award to Yoon during their meeting at the presidential office.

The delivery comes after the foundation in October presented Yoon and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida with the special International Profile in Courage Award for their contribution to improving bilateral relations despite domestic opposition stemming from historical issues.

Yoon said he was honored to receive the award from the late president's family member.

"I will continue to contribute to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region based on relations between South Korea and Japan and the trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the United States and Japan," Yoon was quoted as saying.

The award symbolizing a beacon of hope is modeled after the lantern on the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned ship in the U.S. Navy. (Yonhap)








Americans get cold feet when it comes to footwashing, experts say.

Maundy Thursday is a Holy Week service marking the Last Supper. In some faith traditions, that service has included footwashing from the example in John 13, where Jesus washes his disciples feet during the supper and says, Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one anothers feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you (v. 14).

According to interviews with theologians and pastors, footwashing is now a rare practice even in churches that consider it a part of Maundy Thursday or regular worship. There do not appear to be recent surveys of how often US churches participate in the ritual. A 2009 survey found a decline in footwashing in one Anabaptist denomination, despite the traditions high view of the practice.

Most evangelical traditions have historically embraced John 13 as an example of sacrificial love rather than as a specific commandment for a worship ritual. That approach was clear in a widely discussed Super Bowl ad this year from the He Gets Us campaign featuring footwashing. Other traditions like Pentecostalism that do include footwashing in church services dont practice it very often.

Other than Maundy Thursday service, the practice is few and far between, said Lisa Stephenson, a theologian at Lee University who has done research on footwashing, especially among Pentecostal churches.

Eastminster Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina, does footwashing in church every few years.

It can be a a visible sign of an invisible grace, said Ben Sloan, the pastor of missions at Eastminster. But he added with a laugh, I dont want my feet washed every week.

Sloan remembered that in his ordination process, his examiners asked him how many sacraments there were. He said two: baptism and the Lords Supper. The examiners asked him, What about footwashing?

I was stumped! he said. I said, Well, I think its because in that passage in John 13 [Jesus] says, A new commandment I give you is to love one another. Its about love rather than physically washing the feet. Its about serving other people.

Roughly speaking, Catholics (though only recently allowing women to have their feet washed), Episcopals, Anglicans, Methodists, and Lutherans carry out Maundy Thursday service footwashing, but participating is optional.

Another group of traditions consider footwashing a ritual Christians should do throughout the year: Pentecostals, Anabaptists, and Primitive Baptists. Seventh-day Adventists are perhaps the most committed to its practice, usually bundling footwashing together with monthly Communion in church services.

One 500-year-old Anabaptist hymnal still in use among the Amish has a footwashing hymn that is 25 stanzas.

But many traditions with a history of ritual footwashing hold it loosely and may not practice it at all.

Among our congregations, some practice footwashing, while others have discontinued the practice or have never observed it, says the Mennonite Church USAs website. Congregations are encouraged to practice foot washing when it is a meaningful symbol of service and love for each other.

The 2009 survey on footwashing published in the Mennonite Quarterly Review found that the three churches with the highest frequency of footwashing services were Hispanic congregations in New York, New Jersey, and Texas.

But overall, the survey found a decline in footwashing among Mennonites.

Worried that younger members or new members feel uncomfortable with the rite, many pastors have moved the footwashing service from its more traditional positioning within the Lords Supper celebration on Sunday morning to an evening service or another less conspicuous moment in the liturgy, wrote researcher Bob Brenneman.

Early Protestant statements of faith like the Belgic Confession and the Westminster Confession of Faith assert there are only two sacraments: the Lords Supper and baptism.

John Calvin considered footwashing in church services a practice for Papists, and in his commentary on John he called it an idle and unmeaning ceremony and a display of buffoonery. He was concerned that the annual ceremony would let participants feel at liberty to despise their brethren during the rest of the year.

Reformed theologian R. Scott Clark has argued in his history of the practice that it was not done as a ritual in the apostolic period. Others like Stephenson argue it was a practice of the early church.

Footwashing was observed in a variety of places in the early Church, over a widespread geographical distance, she wrote in her 2014 paper, Getting Our Feet Wet: The Politics of Footwashing.

William Seymour, one of the fathers of Pentecostalism and the charismatic movement, argued in the newspaper The Apostolic Faith that there are three sacraments: footwashing, the Lords Supper, and baptism.

Stephenson said her experience is that Pentecostals do not practice it regularly despite Seymours argument that it is a sacrament. She sees the decline as both theologicalwith people believing Jesus example wasnt a literal one to followand sociological.

Stephenson is part of the Church of God, a Tennessee-based denomination that practices footwashing as a sacrament. Historically these churches were in Southern Appalachia and poor. But she has noticed that footwashing doesnt happen often now.

As our tradition has become more middle-class and gained more social standing and moved up economically speaking, its become a more uncomfortable practice, she said.

In her classes at Lee University, which is affiliated with the Church of God, she notices that students like the idea of footwashing but feel awkward about doing it. In general, she also thinks the rise of megachurches makes footwashing more difficult to carry out.

Its usually a very moving component of a service, she said. It works in peoples lives in ways that are unanticipated.

In interviews, people shared those kinds of experiences.

Richard England remembered when he was a chaplain for adults with special needs in the county of Kent, United Kingdom. During Holy Week, footwashing was too sensitive for the adults, so they washed each others hands in a bowl. England remembered being paired with a woman with Down syndrome.

I cried like a baby, said England. It was the closest I have felt to the footwashing recorded in John and it was far more moving than any of the actual footwashing services Ive been part of.

Churches that wash feet are doing it in more creative ways.

In South Carolina, Eastminster Presbyterian Church does wash feet every week, but not in a church service setting. It has a footcare ministry that a podiatrist in the church started years ago after people who couldnt afford to pay kept coming to him. The church joined up with a local ministry that was already providing lunch for the homeless and offered to give pedicures and new shoes to anyone who wanted them. The idea, according to missions pastor Sloan, is that the homeless are on their feet more than others and dont have as much access to showers. A number of doctors volunteer in the ministry, and guests can also get free medical care if needed.

Its a vulnerable thing, said Sloan. It allows you to open up to people in different ways. Its a humbling thing to have somebody wash your feetits a humbling thing to wash feet.

Lib Foster has been volunteering in the footcare ministry for more than a decade. Recently she was washing the feet of one man who refused to speak to her, but then he allowed her to pray for him and he began to cry. The footcare process is about half an hour, so it gives the guests and volunteers a chance to talk.

Its amazing to see the Holy Spirit work in that room, and were stuffy old Presbyterians, Foster said. She said people have a fear of the uncomfortable or awkward, but getting past that awkwardness is rewarding. Fosters daughter does a similar footcare ministry at an Episcopal church in downtown Atlanta.

But even in Maundy Thursday services, the way liturgical churches do footwashing can vary.

HopePointe Anglican Church in Woodlands, Texas, does footwashing on Maundy Thursday but has footwashing stations set up around the sanctuary so parishioners can wash each others feet, according to member Katie Grosskopf.

In practice, that meant heads of households washed their household members feet. Grosskopf is single, and so she mentioned to the clergy that she felt isolated in the footwashing setup.

After that, the clergy made a point of mentioning in the service to the whole church that we needed to be mindful of the whole family of God and not just our nuclear families in the footwashing, Grosskopf said. Later, an older woman grabbed me and another single woman and washed our feet while crying and praying. It was very moving.

Stephenson argues for the renewal of the practice.

Evangelical Christians dont appreciate liturgy as much; we tend to be Word and worship congregations, she said. But that doesnt engage our whole body. These practices are ways to engage our whole body in ways that worship and Word dont, and invite us to live out the story in ways that Word and worship dont always do.  They identify us and mark us and reorient us at times to what matters, to what we are to be about.
Home News Biden pledges to push back against provision banning pride flags at US embassies

The Biden administration is promising to fight a GOP-led rule in the recently signed $1.2 trillion spending package that effectively bans the rainbow pride flag from being flown at U.S. embassies and consulates.

A provision slipped in the bill spanning more than 1,000 pages requires that "none of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be obligated or expended to fly or display a flag over a facility of the United States Department of State," other than the U.S. flag, with some exceptions, according to Axios.

Other permitted flags include the POW/MIA flag, the U.S. Foreign Service flag, the Hostage and Wrongful Detainee flag, as well as flags that represent states, American territories, Indian tribal areas, and the District of Columbia. Flags of other nations are also allowed.

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President Joe Biden signed the spending bill on Saturday, but a spokesperson for the White House expressed the administration's disapproval of the pride flag ban and promised to pursue repealing what they suggested amounts to discrimination against LGBT Americans.

"President Biden believes it was inappropriate to abuse the process that was essential to keep the government open by including this policy targeting LGBTQI+ Americans," a White House spokesperson told the outlet.

"While it will have no impact on the ability of members of the LGBTQI+ community to serve openly in our embassies or to celebrate Pride, the Administration fought against the inclusion of this policy and we will continue to work with members of Congress to find an opportunity to repeal it," the spokesperson added.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., a Southern Baptist, praised the provision behind closed doors as a win for conservatives, according to a source who spoke to Bloomberg News.

Some U.S. embassies began displaying pride flags to mark so-called pride month or other LGBT-related holidays during the Obama administration. The blanket authorization was repealed under former President Donald Trump, though some continued to display the rainbow flags anyway, according to The Washington Post.

The Biden administration then reversed Trump's ban in April 2021, allowing the flag to be unfurled again at U.S. embassies such as the one to the Vatican, which prompted outrage from Roman Catholics in June 2022.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has also permitted the Black Lives Matter flag to be flown at U.S. embassies, which critics denounced as unnecessarily political.

The provision in the current spending bill remains effective only until Sept. 30.

In 2023, Rep. Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., introduced the Old Glory Only Act, which would permanently ban such displays at diplomatic facilities.

"Our beautiful flag, Old Glory, should be the only flag flying and representing our country over our diplomatic and consular posts worldwide," Duncan said in a statement at the time, according to Fox News Digital. "The American flag is a beacon of liberty, and no other flag or symbol better portrays our shared values than the Stars and Stripes."

In 2021, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis of New York proposed a similar bill and accused the Biden administration of permitting "inherently political flags that are in no way affiliated with the U.S. government."
Home News Church donates thousands to restore South Dakota congregation's destroyed building

An Episcopal church in Pennsylvania contributed more than $2,000 to a small congregation in South Dakota after their church was destroyed last fall in an act of suspected arson.

Trinity Episcopal Church in Bethlehem donated $2,210 to support the restoration of the Holy Innocents Episcopal Church, which was on the Pine Ridge Reservation in Parmelee, South Dakota, before their historic building was torched last October.

Trinity's historic building in downtown Bethlehem was similarly rendered unusable in December following a water main break, according to the Episcopal News Service.

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The church's donation to Holy Innocents was a gift from Trinity's Centennial Fund, which the church gives each year to a worthy cause. The church chose to award their annual gift to Holy Innocents as a sign of solidarity with a congregation that also suffered catastrophic damage to their building.

"We feel supported by the prayers and hopes of people throughout the Episcopal Community worldwide, and by the people in Bethlehem, for restoring our building," the Rev. Pamela Payne, who serves as rector of Trinity, said in a statement provided to The Christian Post.

"Our grief has been transformed into generosity to those suffering a similar tragedy. Trinity Episcopal Church has always been a place of service and mercy to the community and the larger world," Payne added.

The Rev. Lauren Stanley, acting rector of Holy Innocents, expressed gratitude for the gift in a statement provided to CP.

"Your words, prayers and donations will help us build a new church that the entire community can use for worship, family events, and large community events," Stanley said.

Stanley told CP last fall that she suspected the destruction of their 133-year-old building was an act of arson because the church "had received threats previously from a person ped off and said they would burn the church down."

She also noted that the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives was involved in the investigation, but that she was not able to disclose the reason why she believes the potential suspect had threatened her church.

Stanley also recounted how the church had been "desecrated" by vandals in December 2022.

"They took things off the altar, threw them on the floor, defecated and urinated on them," Stanley said. "It wasn't just 'let's break a bunch of windows,' they actually desecrated the church."

Parmelee is a town of approximately 600 people on the Rosebud Indian Reservation, about 30 minutes from Nebraska. Established in 1875, the Rosebud Episcopal Mission has 10 active congregations.

Attacks against churches have skyrocketed 800% in less than six years, and more than doubled, according to a report released last month by the Family Research Council.

The report identified 436 incidents against churches in 2023, more than double the amount reported by the group in 2022 and eight times the number identified in 2018. Some of the acts of hostility include attempted bombing, satanic vandalism, and shootings.
Home News Churches failing to address fatherlessness 'epidemic,' warns expert: 'The devil makes it more complicated than it is'

NASHVILLE, Tennessee  When Sean Teis was just 9 months old, he was abandoned by his earthly father.

My dad came home, an alcoholic in a drunken rage  my mother was in a panic, she went over to the neighbor's house and got the cops to come. They showed up, my dad took me and threw me across the room to the cops, Teis told The Christian Post in a sit-down interview.

That day was the beginning of my fathers journey. It was the day he really rejected me. He said, Im done with you. He packed up his things and moved back to his hometown of Las Vegas, Nevada, after that and never came back and left us in a small town in Pennsylvania.

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But unlike many fatherless children, Teis had a number of men who stepped up in his life and filled the role his father left vacant, from church members to grandparents.

I had a grandfather that poured into my life. I had church people that poured in my life and helped me along that path. But so many kids don't get to have that opportunity where they have people that care about them and love them and help them, he said.

It was this experience that prompted Teis and his wife, Jackie, to launch Life Factors Fatherless Ministries, which equips individuals to fulfill James 1:27 through practical ministry in their churches and communities to fatherless families.

The ministry, which has the stated aim of spreading awareness, creating unique resources, speaking, partnering with local churches, and establishing local fatherless family ministries and support for these families nationwide, employs a multifaceted approach to combat this crisis.

Initiatives range from informative books like The Fatherless Journey for Guys and The Fatherless Journey for Girls to digital resources and mobile applications such as GodismyDad.com. The ministry also advocates for mentoring and local church involvement, offering a non-programmatic, organic approach to support.

The God is my Dad brand has been such a positive thing for children who don't have an earthly dad, Teis said. God is my dad and He cares about me. Its my story, too: God's my dad, and through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, God will be your heavenly Father."

According to Teis, fatherlessness is an epidemic in the United States. He cited statistics from The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of the Census revealing a startling 85% of youths in prisons grew up in a fatherless home.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says that fatherless children are at dramatically greater risk of drug and alcohol abuse, mental illness, suicide, poor educational performance, teen pregnancy and criminality, he said. We look at our country, and we're like, Why are all these things happening? Why are all these people committing crimes? Why is all this abortion happening? And it's not always from fatherlessness, but many times these kids are growing up without a dad, without a mom, without both.

Despite the evident need for addressing fatherlessness, Teis, a former youth pastor himself, said theres been a significant challenge in gaining widespread attention from both cultural and, tragically, religious platforms.

It's been an uphill climb, really, over the past 15-plus years trying to get pastors to take this issue seriously, he said. Its affecting every single person in the United States of America, we try to tell people that in churches, when I speak, it's affecting everybody. But they don't want to shine a light on it  I'm not bashing pastors .. but I honestly believe that churches need to shine a light on this, and we have resources to help them with that.

Teis also expressed a growing concern that governmental agencies, once sources of vital statistics on the ramifications of fatherlessness, have diminished their role in bringing the issue to the forefront of national consciousness.

"The government's not putting out statistics like they used to," he said, suggesting a deliberate oversight that masks the depth of the crisis.

I believe they have a grip on the fatherless," he said. So, our job as Christians is to go to the fathers around us and spread hope to them individually. That's the best way to do it.

Teis acknowledged that the issue is often messy for many families, but stressed there is always hope. He underscored Scripture's definition of "pure religion" as caring for those in need, including children deprived of parental guidance and support.

We can bring them to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, we can disciple them, it's not complicated. I honestly believe the devil tries to make it more complicated than it is.  Sometimes, they just need somebody to tell them, I love you, I believe in you. And I care about you. But were just medicating them or giving them a tablet to play on. We're not giving them people who care about their lives and want to help them succeed in life. We're all about trying to help them break that cycle."

Now a father of three himself, Teis said hes even more determined to break the cycle of fatherlessness. His ministry's work, including family-inclusive ministry tours, is a personal mission to ensure his children understand the value of family and community support.

When we first started our ministry over 15 years ago, I would travel a lot and do our ministry when they were little. And I realized real fast, I need to be bringing them with me. We need to do this together. ... And I started making sure that I at least traveled with one of my kids or made sure that they were there, being together as a family," he said.

"I think it impacts my kids because they get to see us working and doing the work of the ministry. Im just so excited to have them with me.

Learn more about Life Factors Fatherless Ministries here.
Home News Indiana church fires pastor accused of having sex with foster daughter over 100 times

A week after their lead pastor, Errol Wright, was accused of having sex with his teenage foster daughter more than 100 times, Community Christian Church in Tell City, Indiana, said he has been fired and they're grieving over the ordeal.

We have felt the same shock and hurt as the community concerning the recent incident involving our previous pastor. We neglected to release a statement until now because his family is heavily involved in the church, and we wished to give them time to process, the church said in a statement cited by 14 News.

We take accusations of this nature very seriously, and thus Errol Wright is no longer employed by the church and will have no further active involvement, as pastor or otherwise.

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Wright, who was arrested and charged nearly two weeks ago with sexual misconduct with a minor and child seduction, was released on a nearly $48,000 cash bond with a pre-trial hearing set for April 3.

In their statement, the church also challenged a misunderstanding that any of their money was being used in their former pastors defense.

We also wish to clear up a misunderstanding that has spread in our silence. None of the churchs money went to supporting Errol or paying his bail; all of the money given to him was from individuals who gave of their own volition, their statement said. This is a difficult time for our community, and we ask that everyone continue to pray for all those involved and for Gods will to be done in all of us.

Lily Masterson, who is now an adult, told police in February that starting in 2016, Wright had sex with her about three times a week from the time she was 15, until she turned 18. The pastor and his wife, with whom he has two daughters, served as Mastersons foster parents, according to an affidavit previously reported on by The Christian Post.

Wright became the pastor of Community Christian Church shortly after Masterson began attending when she was 15, according to the affidavit.

She said when Wright and his wife agreed to be her foster parents, she was happy initially.

It was church, he was the one that everybody listened to, she said. Everybody loved him.

She claims, however, that He was just like a monster, just hiding in plain sight, and thats the one that no one ever realizes.

Masterson alleged in the affidavit that she once went on vacation with the pastor and his family to his native Jamaica, where he forced her to have sex with him on the same bed where he slept with his wife.

He sent his wife to go to the store with the kids and stuff, just to have sex with me in the same bed that he laid with her, she said.

Wright later allegedly took her to a store and forced her to take the morning after pill.

During the vacation, Masterson claimed that Wright scratched her and left a mark. A photo she posted on Facebook on July 16, 2017, shows her in a bikini on a beach with a visible scar on her stomach.

Jacklynn Gore, whom Masterson identifies as her biological mother, appeared uneasy with her teenage daughter wearing a bikini in public and told her to Put on some clothes in a comment on the photo. Masterson replied, Lol mom it's the beach.

Masterson said Wright showered her with gifts such as a phone and a car when she turned 16, and even promised to leave his wife for her but it never happened.

She said when she left the pastors home after she turned 18, she struggled with the trauma from the abuse and began using drugs, dropped out of college, and became homeless at one point.

With rehab and counseling, Masterson said that she survived because of her faith in God but she has now lost faith in humanity.

I never lost my faith in God in this, she told 14 News. I lost my faith in humanity when it comes to just blindly putting my trust in people, even the ones we think are safe to go to.
Home News MAG Church disaffiliates from Assemblies of God over Chi Alpha abuse scandal

Former Assemblies of God pastor J.R. Armstrong of MAG Church in Orange, Texas, announced that his congregation recently voted to follow in his footsteps to disaffiliate from the world's largest Pentecostal denomination in response to a sexual abuse scandal impacting its Chi Alpha Campus Ministries.

Assemblies of God leaders have been accused of knowingly allowing 67-year-old itinerant minister and convicted sex offender Daniel Savala to prey on young males for years through the Chi Alpha Campus Ministries.

"We wish to be on record as acting ethically and graciously in our response after discussing the options given to us by the South Texas Assembly of God network," Armstrong announced during a March 17 special business meeting.

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"And considering the current crisis being faced by this district and fellowship, the board decided that recommending disaffiliation was in our best interest because systematic sexual abuse within this district and others was known dating back to at least 2018."

In a 79-2 tally, the congregation voted to leave the Assemblies of God.

Armstrong elected not to renew his credentials with the Assemblies of God months after criticizing Assemblies of God General Superintendent Doug Clay for making comments that he believes minimized the abuse Savala is accused of perpetuating on young men through Chi Alpha.

Savala was arrested in Waco last June for allegedly sexually abusing the minor sons of one of his proteges in the ministry.

Earlier this month, a legally blind Sam Houston State University student who was part of Chi Alpha filed a $1 million lawsuit alleging he was sexually abused by Savala while in the ministry.

The lawsuit names several groups as defendants, including the General Council of the Assemblies of God, South Texas District Council Assemblies of God, Inc., also known as South Texas District Council Assemblies of God, Chi Alpha Campus Ministries, USA, and Chi Alpha Campus Ministries Huntsville.

The student listed as John Doe alleges that even though some ministry leaders witnessed Savala engaging in sexual assaults, they still brought youth from religious groups across the state to Savala's house for "mission work."

Doe alleges that he began making mission trips to Savala's home with members of Chi Alpha Huntsville, a group on the SHSU campus, in the fall of 2017. He contends that Savala lured him into a sense of goodwill as other leaders called him a "savior and angel." Doe maintains that Savala forced him to start performing sexual acts, which grew worse over time until 2022.

Using information from Assemblies of God training and policies, Armstrong argues that ministry and denomination leaders were grossly negligent in their handling of Savala's abuse in the ministry because they were warned repeatedly that he was a predator from at least 2018.

"In the time between 2018 and April of 2023, it's undeniable that at least three minor children were molested by him. These three boys were allegedly victimized as a direct result of the inaction of elected leadership of the Assemblies of God to follow through on the knowledge that they admit they had at the time. Two of them were sons of an active Chi Alpha missionary. One of them who filed suit in north Texas a few weeks ago was actually 13 at the time," Armstrong said.

"All of them were molested since 2018. We are not in any way insinuating that these leaders were predators. It's just a failure and breakdown of communication and leadership. That's all. I don't say that's all dismissively. It's big."

Calling the accommodation of Savala's predation in Chi Alpha a "sex cult," Armstrong says the Assemblies of God did not take the allegations about Savala seriously until they began receiving legal demand letters concerning his behavior.

"Then and only then was any scrutiny given to the sex cult. And that's what it is, that was operating within the ministries of the Assemblies of God. I know that's strong language, but I'm going to add to this language," he said.

"When the Catholic church was doing this, everybody could see it. When the Southern Baptist Church Convention was going through this, everybody could see it. And I'm telling the district officials and this body that everybody can see this and the only people struggling over what to do and that it happened are Assemblies of God ministers and leadership," Armstrong said. "Everybody else sees it very clearly. The language of the lawsuits that are coming, are language of sex trafficking."

In earlier comments to The Christian Post on the allegations, the Assemblies for God pointed to an updated statement that the national office confirmed officials had warned local leaders about Savala as far back as 2018.

"When a report first surfaced to the General Council and National Chi Alpha in 2018 of Mr. Savala's proximity to certain local Texas Chi Alpha groups, the appropriate districts with which these campuses are affiliated were notified," the statement said.

"National Chi Alpha, which serves as a resource for locally operated chapters, made relevant Chi Alpha leaders aware of his status and warned them to cease contact and not permit students or leaders to be around him."

The Assemblies of God noted that denominational leaders were unaware that Savala was sexually involved with college students in Texas until April 2023, and investigations have been ongoing since then. The Pentecostal denomination says it has limited public comments on the matter to protect the integrity of an ongoing investigation.

The denomination confirmed, however, that ministers are already being appropriately dismissed "in response to the investigative findings."

The denomination assured in its June statement that it was "heartbroken" and planned to do everything it could to help the victims.

"As of today multiple Chi Alpha missionaries, six or more, have been dismissed, multiple arrests have been made, one leader in Springfield was allowed to resign, God knows why. Yet none of the elected leadership have stepped down after a catastrophic failure to supervise the ministries under its charge," argued Armstrong. "And there seems to be no intention of releasing the results of the independent investigation commissioned by the district and paid at our expense."
Home News Supreme Court questions Biden admin.'s loosening of abortion pill restrictions

The U.S. Supreme Court came one step closer to issuing another abortion decision as it pondered the Biden administration's loosening of restrictions on the abortion pill on Tuesday, questioning if courts can second guess government expert determinations.

The justices held oral arguments in the case of FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, based on a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas Amarillo Division in late 2022 by pro-life medical organizations and professionals.

The case centers around the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's removal of in-person dispensing requirements for mifepristone in 2021 and its 2016 decision to enable medical professionals other than doctors to dispense and prescribe the drug.

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Additional changes made in 2016 enabled the FDA to stop reporting non-fatal complications from the abortion pill and allowed women to take the drug as late as 10 weeks into pregnancy as opposed to seven.

Last spring, Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, a Trump appointee, sided with the plaintiffs by striking down the FDA's approval of the chemical abortion pill marketed as mifepristone in the U.S. The synthetic steroid endocrine disruptor essentially destroys the environment in the uterus and starves an unborn baby to death.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the lower court decision striking down the relaxed requirements for the abortion pill while putting on hold the aspect of the decision striking down the FDA's 2000 approval of the abortion pill altogether. The U.S. government is asking the justices to reverse the decision.

U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar defended the administration's loosening of dispensing requirements. In her opening statement, she said that "rolling back FDA's changes would unnecessarily restrict access to mifepristone with no safety justification."

"Some women could be forced to undergo surgical abortions. Others might not be able to access the drug at all," she added, dismissing the idea that the abortion pill puts women at risk of serious complications.

"Only an exceptionally small number of women suffer the kind of serious complications that could trigger any need for emergency treatment," she said.

"There is no basis to conclude that any of that would be traceable to the incremental changes that FDA made in 2016 and 2021 as opposed to the availability of mifepristone in general."

Prelogar insisted that the plaintiffs did not have standing to bring the lawsuit because they have "no certain injury of their own" as a result of the loosening of requirements for the abortion pill.

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, one of the court's conservative members, suggested that Prelogar was making the case that "it doesn't matter if the FDA flagrantly violated the law and didn't do what it should have done, endangered the health of women, that's just too bad, nobody can sue."

When questioning Jessica Ellsworth, the attorney for the abortion pill manufacturer Danco Laboratories, also a party in the lawsuit, Alito asked her to describe how the company was "aggrieved by the challenge that is brought in this case." He asked Ellsworth if mifepristone was the only product her company was currently marketing, and she answered in the affirmative.

"The Fifth Circuit decision does not prohibit you from continuing to produce and sell that product, right?" he asked. After Ellsworth acknowledged that Alito's analysis was correct, he followed up, "I gather your injury is that you think you're going to sell more if the restrictions that previously were in place were lifted."

"The injury is that we are prevented from selling our product in line with FDA's scientific judgment about the safe and efficacious use of the drug," she responded.

Picking up on the line of questioning with Prelogar, Alito inquired whether Ellsworth viewed the FDA as "infallible." She indicated that she did not but said that it would be different if plaintiffs presented patients suffering from such adverse effects.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson circled back to the question about the FDA being "infallible," asking Ellsworth whether she thought "courts have specialized scientific knowledge with respect to pharmaceuticals" and "as a company that has pharmaceuticals, do you have concerns about judges parsing medical and scientific studies?"

Ellsworth said she shared Jackson's concerns and accused the district court decision of relying on faulty science.

In his ruling last year, Kacsmaryk accused the FDA of having "acquiesced on its legitimate safety concerns ... based on plainly unsound reasoning and studies that did not support its conclusions." Kacsmaryk also wrote that the FDA faced "significant political pressure to forego its proposed safety precautions to better advance the political objective of increased 'access' to chemical abortion."

Ellsworth said Kacsmaryk relied on "one study that was an analysis of anonymous blog posts."

"You have another set of studies that he relied on that were not in the administrative record," she said.

Contending that judges were "not experts in statistics" or "the methodology used for scientific studies for clinical trials," Ellsworth reiterated the point made throughout the arguments that courts should not "second guess" FDA data on the matter.

Erin Hawley, an attorney with the religious liberty law firm Alliance Defending Freedom, maintained that the FDA "concedes that between 2.9 and 4.6% of women will end up in the emergency room" after taking the abortion pill. She said, "Women are even more likely to need surgical intervention and other medical care without an in-person visit."

Hawley stated that "FDA approved abortion by mail based on data it admitted was 'not adequate,'" characterizing the agency's actions as a violation of the Administrative Procedure Act.

Jackson engaged in a similar line of questioning with Hawley, taking issue with efforts to engage in what she characterized as "second guessing" of the FDA.

The newest member of the Supreme Court asked, "What deference, if any, do courts owe the opinion of the expert concerning the safety and efficacy of drugs?"

"We're not asking that the court second guess the agency determinations at all," Hawley replied, criticizing the lack of transparency behind agency determinations.

"These proceedings go on between Danco and the FDA behind closed doors," she said. "This is not a notice and comment process."

During an exchange with Justice Clarence Thomas, Hawley alleged that the FDA's allowing the abortion pill to be sent through the mail violated federal law.

"We don't think that there's any case of this court that empowers FDA to ignore other federal law," she said. "With respect to the Comstock Act, as relevant here, the Comstock Act says that drugs should not be mailed  either through the mail or through common carriers."

The Supreme Court is expected to rule on the case before the end of its current term this summer. A decision will mark the second time in the past two years the court has issued a significant ruling on abortion.

In 2022, the Supreme Court handed down its landmark decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which determined that the U.S. Constitution does not contain a right to abortion.
Home News Trump rolls out 'God Bless the USA' Bible during Holy Week, warns Christians 'under siege' 'It's my favorite book'

Former President Donald Trump promoted a new leather-bound "God Bless the USA" Bible on Tuesday, and warned his supporters that Christians in the U.S. are "under siege."

In a video statement posted to Truth Social, Trump displayed a version of the Bible that he's promoting with musician Lee Greenwood, whose song "God Bless the USA" often features during Trump's rallies.

Happy Holy Week! Lets Make America Pray Again. As we lead into Good Friday and Easter, I encourage you to get a copy of the God Bless The USA Bible. @TheLeeGreenwoodhttps://t.co/1KK5QgVK85pic.twitter.com/XoCIeGDpAg 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 March 26, 2024

Trump noted that the Bible, which is in the King James Version and costs $59.99, also features the founding American documents, which he encouraged every citizen to read.

"You have to have it for your heart and for your soul," Trump said. "Many of you have never read them and don't know the liberties and rights you have as Americans, and how you are being threatened to lose those rights. It's happening all the time. It's a very sad thing that's going on in our country, but we're gonna get it turned around."

Trump went on to claim that "religion and Christianity are the biggest things missing from this country," which he maintained is why the nation finds itself in such turmoil.

"I think it's one of the biggest problems we have," he said. "That's why our country is going haywire. We've lost religion in our country."

He also said that every American should have a Bible in their home, and that he personally owns "many" of them because it's his "favorite book."

"This Bible is a reminder that the biggest thing we have to bring back America and to make America great again is our religion," he said. "Religion is so important, it's so missing, but it's going to come back and it's going to come back strong, just like our country is going to come back strong."

"In the end, we do not answer to bureaucrats in Washington, we answer to God in Heaven," he continued. "Christians are under siege. We must protect content that is pro-God. We love God, and we have to protect anything that is pro-God. We must defend God in the public square and not allow the media or the left-wing groups to silence, censor or discriminate against us."

Trump concluded by claiming the Founding Fathers "did a tremendous thing when they built America on Judeo-Christian values," but that their foundation is "under attack, perhaps as never before." He urged his listeners to purchase the Bible to "help spread our Christian values with others."

A product description of the Bible describes it as an "easy-to-read, large print, and slim design" that "invites you to explore Gods Word anywhere, any time."

"This bible [sic] has been designed so that it delivers an easy reading experience in the trusted King James Version translation," the description adds. "This large print Bible will be perfect to take to church, a bible study, work, travel, etc."

In addition to copies of the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, and the Pledge of Allegiance, the Bible also contains the handwritten chorus to Greenwood's "God Bless The USA."

Earlier this week, Trump appeared to liken the unfair trial of Jesus to his treatment in his civil fraud case in New York, which has seen him slapped with a $454 million judgment. A New York appeals court ruled Monday that the state will hold off on potentially seizing his assets if he is able to come up with $175 million bond within 10 days.

Posting a supposed message from a supporter that noted the irony of the legal battle he is facing during Holy Week, Trump went on to quote Psalm 109:3-8, which pleads for God's judgment against false accusers.

The apostle Peter applied Psalm 109:8 to Judas Iscariot, according to Acts 1:20.

On June 1, 2020, Trump drew criticism for a controversial photo shoot during which he held up a Bible in front of St. John's Episcopal Church a day after protesters torched and damaged it during height of the riots that roiled Washington, D.C., that summer after George Floyd's death.

Trump was accused of tear gassing protesters in Lafayette Park outside the White House to make way for the photo shoot, though a report from the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of the Interior determined that police had already planned to disperse the crowd before they learned of Trumps plan to walk over to the church.
Home News Woman whose husband poisoned her with abortion pill speaks out at Supreme Court

WASHINGTON  As the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments on the Biden administration's loosening of abortion pill regulations Tuesday, a woman whose husband was imprisoned for slipping abortion drugs into her drinks in hopes of aborting their child when the couple was going through a separation shared her story.

In an interview outside of the court building with The Christian Post, Catherine Herring said that in March 2022, her husband, Mason, spiked her drink with abortion drugs after she told him she was pregnant.

Mason Herring, a Texas attorney, drew national headlines in February as he was sentenced to 180 days in jail and 10 years probation. He was initially charged with felony assault to induce abortion but pleaded guilty to injury to a child and assault of a pregnant person. Catherine Herring is now opening up about her story with the press as the divorce proceedings are ongoing.

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The pair had been married for 11 years and going through a separation at the time of the pregnancy.

"This pregnancy was a complete surprise," she explained. "I found out about a week after he asked to separate that I was pregnant. His first reaction was that this was going to 'ruin his plans' and make him look like a 'jerk.'"

According to Herring, the couple began marriage counseling to work on their relationship. Considering they had started counseling to work on reconciling, Herring said that what her husband then tried to do was a "complete surprise."

On the morning of March 17, 2022, Herring remembers her husband brought her breakfast in bed and instructed her to drink a cup of water, urging her to "stay hydrated" during her pregnancy. Herring said that as she ate breakfast and drank the water, her husband began insisting she drink faster, and he started to grow angry because she was drinking too slowly.

After Herring's husband told her to chug the water because he had to leave for the office, she looked down and noticed the cloudiness of the water. When she asked her husband what had been in the cup, he blamed the filthy water on dirty pipes.

"Or maybe he had grabbed a dirty cup," Herring said her husband offered as another potential explanation. "But he took the cup and, about 30 minutes later, I started getting violently ill. I had severe diarrhea and cramping, and I started bleeding a few hours later."

She had never talked to a pregnancy help hotline before, but on the morning of the first poisoning attempt, Herring suddenly remembered she had seen an article discussing a ban on advertising abortion pill reversal. Herring found the number for the hotline after she googled "abortion pill reversal."

The abortion pill reversal process works by providing progesterone to a woman who has taken the first drug in the chemical abortion regimen. Medical professionals who offer abortion pill reversal contend that, if taken at a certain point, the treatment can potentially save the pregnancy.

"I was able to speak with a nurse," Herring said. "We weren't sure what was in the cup, but we thought that maybe he was trying to do something to harm the baby. [The nurse] recommended that I start a dosage of progesterone."

"And by the grace of God, I already had a prescription in my medicine cabinet from a previous pregnancy," she added. "So, I was able to take the correct dosage immediately."

Herring said that she later went to the emergency room, but her husband never came to visit. After the first attempt to abort her baby failed, Herring told CP that Mason Herring tried to poison her six more times over the course of two months.

She began to gather evidence. With the help of a private investigator, Herring caught her husband in the act on a hidden camera. She took the evidence to the police.

Despite her husband's attempt to abort his child, Herring confirmed that her daughter is alive and is currently 19 months old.

"She suffers from a lot of developmental issues," the mother said. "But she's alive."

The nation's high court heard oral arguments related to a legal challenge concerning the U.S. Food & Drug Administration loosening restrictions on mifepristone, the first drug in the chemical abortion regimen.

Mifepristone works by blocking the progesterone hormone necessary to sustain a healthy pregnancy, and it starves the unborn child to death.

In 2021, the FDA reduced the regulations surrounding mifepristone, allowing women to receive it through the mail without an in-person doctor's visit. Before that, in 2016, the FDA eliminated the requirement for abortionists to report non-fatal chemical abortion complications.

Catherine Herring's story comes amid efforts in Colorado to ban doctors from giving progesterone to women who took the first pill in the abortion pill regimen but wish to keep their unborn child, said to be the first law of its kind in the nation. The law was put on hold last year by a federal judge until a lawsuit against it from a Catholic health organization can be adjudicated.

CP also spoke with Elizabeth Gillette, who told the outlet she ended up on the bathroom floor in a pool of blood after taking chemical abortion drugs.

Fourteen years ago, Gillette faced an unexpected pregnancy and obtained the drugs from a Planned Parenthood in McMinnville, Oregon, that has since been shut down.

Gillette claims the Planned Parenthood staff reassured her that she might experience bleeding that would feel like a "double period" and some cramping, but nothing that should prevent her from going to work the next day.

She told CP that her experience was "far different" from what Planned Parenthood said would happen.

"I ended up in a pool of blood on the bathroom floor, and I ended up holding the transparent amniotic sac with a recognizable baby inside, and I had to flush my baby," Gillette said. "Nobody told me that that was even a possibility. They told me that there would be some clotting."

Gillette said she still suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder 14 years later, and she has been seeking help through counseling for about six years now. She also said that, after the abortion, there was no follow-up care, nor was there a doctor's visit.

"No one cared," she said. "I thought I was going to die, and nobody cared."

"I decided to share my story because my child's life matters," Gillette said. "And because of what I went through, no woman should ever have to go through that. Women deserve the truth. And when people are only hearing half of the story, somebody has to stand up."

Multiple pro-life and pro-choice activists gathered outside of the Supreme Court.

Many held signs warning about the dangers of the abortion pill, while others held signs that read "Safe Abortion Is A Human Right."

Terrisa Bukovinac, founder of Progressive Anti-Abortion Uprising, told CP she was outside the court to "oppose a tool of genocide," referring to the abortion pill.

In response to a question about what she thinks of abortion proponents accusing pro-lifers of forcing their religion on others, Bukovinac, who's a pro-life atheist, stated, "Opposing genocide should cross secular and religious lines."

"Most women are dealing with financial difficulty," Bukovinac said about the women who typically seek to have chemical abortions. "I'm a pro-life progressive, and I believe that we need serious financial safety nets for people who are pregnant and parenting in this nation."

Bukovinac accused the abortion industry of exploiting women and families who feel as if they do not have any other options. She called on the pro-life movement to continue expanding the resources available for pregnant women and to reduce the abortion industry's influence by limiting access to abortion-inducing drugs.

"You can't be anti-fascist, anti-racist and anti-capitalist and support the abortion industry," Bukovinac said.

Caroline Taylor Smith, the executive director of PAAU, told CP that opposing violence is a progressive view and that "abortion clearly is violence." She contends that even if the unborn are typically in an early stage of development when a woman undergoes the chemical abortion regimen, the drugs still poison a human being.

"I think we need to follow science, and we need to learn from history," the PAAU executive director said. "And my conclusion, and the conclusion everyone should have, is that abortion pills need to be removed from society. They're not safe."

Dr. Susan Bane of the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, an OB-GYN with over 20 years of experience, told CP that the FDA's removal of mifepristone safeguards sends a message to women that "you don't need ongoing healthcare."

"Then that's a message to say that I can just order these online, and this is going to be an easy process," Bane said.

"And then, what I hear from my patients is just the opposite," she added. "They had excruciating pain, and they bled so heavily, and they didn't have the ability to ask questions during their informed consent process, and they didn't have follow-up like they needed."

"They're alone throughout this process, and that is not the standard for how we take care of women in this country," Bane continued.

Julie Marie Blake, senior counsel for regulatory litigation at Alliance Defending Freedom, said the FDA's own label says that chemical abortion drugs send one in 25 women to the emergency room, which could equate to about 25,000 women going to the emergency room last year.

Blake declared women need ongoing care from a doctor when taking drugs that she noted are "high-risk."

"The FDA had no authority and no evidence when it removed crucial safeguards on chemical abortion drugs, such as the ongoing in-person care of a doctor," Blake told CP. "So, we are standing up to hold the FDA accountable. We're asking the Supreme Court to restore these crucial safeguards to ensure that women have in-person doctor care."
Home News Baltimore turns to prayer after Key Bridge collapse disrupts regional infrastructure

Political and religious leaders in Baltimore, as well as Maryland and federal officials, have called for prayers and attended prayer vigils after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse Tuesday caused several people to fall into the water below and severely disrupted critical regional infrastructure.

The Key Bridge, the part of the I-695 beltway that spans over the Patapsco River, collapsed early Tuesday morning after a cargo ship leaving the Port of Baltimore crashed into the bridge, leading to its quick collapse.

Baltimore City Fire Department Chief James Wallace said at a news conference early Tuesday morning, "There were likely multiple people on the bridge at the time of the collapse, and ... as a result, multiple people were in the water."

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At least two people were removed from the water while authorities continue to search for six missing individuals, who are presumed dead, as of Wednesday afternoon. Choppy waters and cold conditions are hampering the search process.

State, local and federal elected officials, as well as faith leaders, are calling for prayers as the search for survivors continues.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, a Democrat, described the bridge collapse as an "unthinkable tragedy" as he appeared alongside Wallace at the news conference.

"We have to first and foremost, pray for all of those who are impacted, those families," he proclaimed.

Scott also urged people to "pray for our first responders and thank them, all of them working together: city, state, local to make sure that we are working through this tragedy."

Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski, a Democrat, offered a similar sentiment as he spoke at the news conference.

"I would just echo the mayor in lifting up prayers for those who are impacted but also ask that our residents  pray for our first responders."

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, a Democrat, issued a statement Tuesday after declaring a state of emergency. Moore expressed gratitude for first responders, stating, "We are thankful for the brave men and women who are carrying out efforts to rescue those involved and pray for everyone's safety."

President Joe Biden also weighed in on the bridge collapse in remarks at the White House Tuesday.

He assured, "Our prayers are with everyone involved in this terrible accident and all the families, especially those waiting for the news of their loved one right now."

Archbishop William Lori, the leader of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Baltimore, released a statement reacting to the bridge collapse Tuesday.

"I am saddened, as you are, to learn of the tragic incident overnight that led to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge over the Baltimore harbor," he said.

Lori urged the faithful to "pray with me for all involved, especially the victims traveling over the span at the time of impact, the construction crews on site and all of the first responders acting with urgency to rescue survivors."

"Let us join in prayer in asking the Lord to grant consolation and strength as we cope with this terrible tragedy," Lori added.

Multiple churches held special services to pray for those who may have lost their lives and/or sustained injuries due to the bridge collapse.

The Archdiocese of Baltimore shared a post from its publication, The Catholic Review, on Facebook Tuesday, noting that "more than 200 people" attended a "special 5:30 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen" in the Homeland neighborhood of Baltimore.

Scott took to Facebook Tuesday to invite people to join him and "faith Leaders from across the city in a moment of unity and solace in response" to the bridge collapse by attending a prayer vigil at Mt. Olive Baptist Church of Turner Station in nearby Dundalk, Maryland.

Scott and Olszewski were listed as attendees at the prayer vigil, which took place between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.

In addition to raising concerns about potential lives lost, the bridge collapse has other consequences.

As Biden indicated when describing the bridge as "one of the most important elements for the economy in the Northeast and the quality of life" that is "critical" for travel in the northeastern U.S., "Over 30,000 vehicles cross the Francis Scott Key Bridge on a daily basis."

The collapse of the bridge has led to traffic being rerouted.

Additionally, shipping traffic in the Port of Baltimore has been suspended, although it is still open for truck transactions. Biden identified the Port of Baltimore as "the top port in America for both imports and exports of automobiles and light trucks" that employs 15,000 people.
By Nam Hyun-woo

Korea marked the 114th death anniversary of Ahn Jung-geun (1879-1910) on Tuesday, emphasizing that the patriotic spirit of the late independence fighter should be revered as a priceless legacy.

The Ahn Jung-geun Memorial Association hosted the ceremony at his memorial museum in Jung District, Seoul, with the associations Chairman Kim Hwang-sik, Patriots and Veterans Affairs Minister Kang Jung-ai and more than 200 descendants of other independence figures present.

During the ceremony, the association awarded the fourth Ahn Jung-geun East Asian Peace Prize, to Yoon Ja-sung, the chairperson of the North American Ahn Jung-geun Memorial Foundation, for her contribution to promoting the patriotic spirit and peace ideals of Ahn Jung-geun in North America.

Yoon Ja-sung is the granddaughter of Yoon Neung-hyo, who engaged in the independence movement against Imperial Japan in the Russian Far East and is known for his financial assistance of Ahns 1909 assassination of Ito Hirobumi, the resident-general of Korea at the time.

Until his patriotic death 114 years ago today, Ahn dedicated himself solely to our nation and people, and his noble patriotism should be revered as a priceless legacy for the nation to cherish, Minister Kang said.

The ministry will earnestly remember the spirit of Ahn and countless other patriots and spare no efforts in passing their legacy on to future generations.

Born in 1879, Ahn dedicated his whole life to defending the countrys independence. After the Korean Empire signed an unwilling protectorate treaty with Imperial Japan in 1905, Ahn established private schools to educate young people, but resorted to armed resistance when Emperor Gojong was dethroned in 1907 and the empires military forces were dissolved.

In 1908, he led several attacks against Japanese forces in northern regions of the country, and assassinated Ito in Chinas Harbin on Oct. 26, 1909, a year before the Japanese Empire annexed Korea.

After being arrested, he insisted on the just cause of his assassination, reciting a list of 15 offenses Ito had committed, and called for Koreas independence and peace in East Asia. He was sentenced to death on Feb. 14, 1910, and executed in March 26 that year.

In 1962, the Korean government awarded him a posthumous Order of Merit for National Foundation, the most prestigious civil decoration in the country.
Home News Church of Scotland wants religious freedom protected in conversion therapy ban

The Church of Scotland has expressed openness to a national ban on sexual orientation change efforts therapy, referred to by critics as conversion therapy, provided that such a ban can't be misused to prosecute the actions of churches and pastors.

The Scottish government is set to introduce a bill in Parliament aimed at banning the therapy for people with unwanted same-sex attractions.

A document prepared Monday on behalf of the national church's Public Life and Social Justice Programme at the request of the Scottish government outlined the denomination's stance.

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The document asked if the church supports the lawmakers' approach to "defining conversion practices which focuses on behaviour motivated by the intention to change or suppress a person's sexual orientation or gender identity?" In response, the denomination marked "don't know."

Church of Scotland leadership stated, "We take a broadly supportive position with regard to the proposals outlined in the consultation to tackle coercive practices aimed at changing or suppressing a person's identity."

However, the document stated that the church is "not in a position to offer unqualified support," noting that "there is a spectrum and diversity of views within the Church of Scotland on this issue."

One example of concern mentioned in the document was whenever a counselor would encourage someone with same-sex attraction to practice celibacy instead of attempting to change them.

"Whilst a prayer urging celibacy would come under the definition of suppression  there is an additional factor at play within a Christian context whereby celibacy outside of a traditional marriage is a commonly held practice, and for some an important manifestation of their faith," stated the document.

"It would be extremely helpful for the Church to have such examples considered in relation to the proposed legislation. This is not only for the sake of clarity but for our safeguarding services to design relevant guidelines to ensure expression of belief and fellowship within that belief does not become coercive."

The document commended the "high bar" set for proving guilt in the proposed legislation, believing that it "helps to assuage the fear that" the proposed ban will "curtail freedom of speech or independent thought."

"Our democratic society depends on  and legal history celebrates  the right to express controversial opinions; for there to be a diversity of free discussion; and for there not to be a 'state mandated' lines of acceptable speech and conduct, other than in the most extreme cases involving threats to life," continued the document.

Emma Jackson of the Public Life and Social Justice Programme said in a statement on Monday that the denomination's stance was inspired by extensive internal conversations and speaking to "survivors of conversion practices."

"We are all created in God's image, and we all have inherent dignity. We must do all we can in our public witness to respect and affirm this high principle," Jackson stated.

In January, the Scottish government announced a consultation on the question of banning conversion therapy, with the belief being that preexisting laws against conversion practices needed to be strengthened.

"Scots law already addresses a range of harmful behavior often associated with conversion practices, including situations involving physical violence or threatening conduct," stated Emma Roddick, minister for Equalities, Migration and Refugees, as quoted in the consultation document.

"There is, however, a significant gap in our law  which can allow forms of conversion practices to fall through the cracks.  From our knowledge of conversion practices through expert advice, data gathering, and analysis, it is clear that limiting legislative action to sexual orientation does not go far enough. Conversion practices relating to gender identity are equally damaging."

Danny Webster, director of advocacy at the Evangelical Alliance of Scotland, expressed concern that the new proposal might criminalize "churches or organizations for teaching biblical sexual ethics and pastoring people as they seek to live by them."

"There is a very real risk that parliament could vote in the coming weeks in support of a law which under the guise of banning abusive behaviour would criminalise the ordinary, everyday, activity of churches," wrote Webster in late February.

"There is no need for the activity to have caused injury or distress for it to be deemed illegal. There is no defence if it is an activity or support a person desires or chooses. There is no need for someone to have even engaged in any activity  in fact the provision of material, whether that's a book, an article or a video, which is judged to be encouraging someone to resist same-sex sexual activity, is likely to be enough for an offence to be committed."

Webster believes that "church discipleship, pastoral care and prayer ministry is under threat of prosecution when matters of same-sex sexual attraction or gender identity are at hand."

"Not only would these proposals severely limit the support available to Christians who seek support to live biblically faithful lives, or to anyone seeking to not engage in same-sex sexual activity, but they would also be a hammer blow to religious freedom in the UK," he continued.

"Please pray for our politicians over the coming weeks as they consider these proposals. Pray that MPs will understand the risk that poorly designed laws could severely restrict the work of churches and Christian ministries."

Scotland's Catholic Church has expressed concern.

While the Church supports legislation which protects people from physical and verbal abuse, a fundamental pillar of any free society is that the state recognizes and respects the right of religious bodies and organizations to be free to teach the fulness of their beliefs and to support, through prayer, counsel and other pastoral means, their members who wish to live in accordance with those beliefs, a Catholic Church representative told Crux.
Home News Steven Furtick's Elevation Church sent Easter seeker-friendly invites that omit 'resurrection,' 'Calvary'

Christian music artists and pastors have weighed in after a senior staffer at Steven Furticks Elevation Church in North Carolina revealed the megachurch doesnt use words like resurrection, Calvary or the blood of Jesus in their Easter invitations for fear of alienating potential non-Christian attendees.

Nicki Shearer, Elevation Churchs digital content director, recently spoke with Pro Church Tools and said the church, which has 20 locations, avoids using language that immediately makes someone feel like an outsider.

When I think about how Im going to talk about Easter, Im thinking about how Im going to talk to people far from God, because thats the thing that matters most to us, Shearer said, adding the church wants to reach the un-churched and churched alike.

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Shearer, who Pro Church Tools said is responsible for what Elevation says and how they say it, said Easter and Christmas are the only two events of the year that are actually wrapped around a particular passage in the Bible.

I'm putting a lot of my focus, energy, time, resources toward what I would call the cold audience, people far from God, she reiterated. I'm not going to say the word Calvary, not going to say the word resurrection, I'm not going to say the blood of Jesus,' I'm not going to say any of these words that make someone feel like an outsider. This is really an important guide for how we develop language. Anyone can be a part of our church; it might not be for everyone, everyone might not like it, but anyone can come.

Pro Church Tools attempted to clarify that while certain terms are absent from invitations, they are indeed emphasized during Elevation's services, particularly regarding the resurrection of Christ.

[It] doesnt matter how amazing your message might be if its not accessible to the people youre trying to reach, interviewer Brady Shearer of Pro Church Tools said.

On its website, Elevation made available an Easter message that can be copied and pasted to send to potential attendees.

"Hey, do you have plans for Easter Sunday?" The message reads. "I'm heading to Easter at Elevation. Would you like to join me? The music and the message are always incredible. It's honestly one of my favorite ways to celebrate the holiday. I'd love to have you as my guest this year!"

The Christian Post reached out to Elevation Church for comment. A response is pending.

Nicki Shearers comments sparked controversy among some on social media, with critics accusing Elevation Church of diluting Christian messages for the sake of inclusivity.

This is woke-ism, Shane Idleman, pastor of Westside Christian Fellowship in Southern California, said. 'I dont want to offend others.' Well, you just offended God.  I want to say, listen, you can market the Gospel; just say, Come and see what Christ has done.  I'm not embarrassed of the Gospel, Calvary is a wonderful thing. He shed His blood on Calvary and has set me free and He has risen again.

You might want to get up and go and find a place where you're not offended because the Gospel offends us, he added. It breaks us, it humbles us. I'm here because of God, not because of you.  When did the Church become for non-believers? We are to welcome them, reach them, love them and understand them. But at the end of the day, I'm here because of God, and I will not apologize, if that's a little too strong.

Weighing in on the controversy, Robert Jeffress, senior pastor of First Baptist Dallas, also criticized efforts to water down the Gospel message ahead of significant Christian observances by not mentioning the crucifixion and resurrection as futile, likening it to "trying to swim in an empty swimming pool."

In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul declares that the foundation of Christianity is the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, he told The Christian Post. To try to reach people on Christmas and Easter without mentioning the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ is like trying to swim in an empty swimming pool. Whats the point?

Shane Everett and Shane Barnard of the worship duo Shane and Shane told CP that the resurrection has a non-negotiable place in Christian doctrine and stressed that omitting such crucial elements risks presenting a form of Christianity devoid of its power.

This seems like a very dangerous place to be, Everett told CP.

Barnard added that while hes heard some great sermons by Furtick, "you cant leave the resurrection and even the ascension out of the Gospel."

"Jesus died on the cross for our sins, and the resurrection is proof that the check cleared. Its a key event in history. I don't know how you could read that and, especially on Easter, not proclaim the resurrection for all who would believe," he said.

The Gospel, according to Shane and Shane, should be presented in its fullness, including the challenging aspects like the acknowledgment of sin, without dilution or omission for the sake of making it more palatable.

"Boasting in our weakness and leading with a limp," as they put it, is the key to creating an environment where seekers feel welcomed and understood, as exemplified by the Apostle Paul.

The Gospel is an invitation for sinners; Christ Jesus came to die for sinners, Everett said. That's not to say that some aren't and some are. It's just that some see that they are and some see that they're not. The Gospel is an invitation for sinners, the lowly and weak.  If you're a sinner, and if you're in need of a Savior, it's the greatest news ever. There's nothing you need to do. You dont need to pad that for a seeker, because a seeker is seeking the Gospel. Theyre after a life of freedom, the forgiveness of sin, everlasting life and God.

You dont have to overthink it. If you're on an island and you read this book, it's pretty clear what the hope of our salvation is. Be bold and share it. And trust that God's going to do the work. It's His perfect Word.
Home News Geraldo tells Rachel Maddow, MSNBC hosts: God didn't make you 'arbiters of right and wrong'

A longtime TV personality is criticizing prominent MSNBC opinion hosts who pushed for the termination of NBC's contract with former Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna McDaniel as an on-air contributor, insisting that God did not anoint them arbiters of right or wrong.

Geraldo Rivera, the former Fox News host whose career has spanned several decades, took to X on Monday to weigh in on the news that NBC had terminated its contract with McDaniel just days after they hired her. Rivera, a liberal who frequently clashed with his more conservative colleagues at Fox News, lamented that Ronna McDaniel is getting washed away by a tsunami of pretentious bull sh-- in a post on X Monday night.

Rivera attributed MSNBC personalities demands to fire McDaniel to the fact that they hate [former President Donald] Trump. A video compiled by the media watchdog NewsBusters shows examples of what Rivera was talking about, with multiple on-air personalities at NBC's cable news arm MSNBC expressing vehement opposition to its decision to hire McDaniel. MSNBC host Joy Reid cited McDaniels hiring as an example of the normalization of the dangerous, damned lies from the Republican Party.

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The chyron at the bottom of the screen during Mondays edition of Deadline: White House read hiring of fmr. GOP chair raises questions about platforming election deniers.

MSNBC host Mika Brzezinski derided McDaniel as an anti-democracy election denier while her husband and co-host on Morning Joe Joe Scarborough expressed disappointment that we werent asked our opinion of the hiring, adding, If we were, we would have strongly objected to it.

We hope NBC will reconsider its decision, Brzezinski said. Longtime MSNBC host Rachel Maddow also told viewers, I hope they will reverse their decision. Maddow also likened the network's hiring of McDaniel to hiring a mobster to work at a [district attorneys] office and joined other MSNBC hosts in vowing that the former RNC chair would never appear on their programs.

Rivera offered an additional analysis of McDaniels ouster in a subsequent X post on Tuesday: What many progressives like Maddow apparently do not understand is that God did not anoint them arbiters of right or wrong. Millions of Americans dont see the world the way either Maddow or Ronna McDaniel see it.

NBCs audience deserved to hear Ronna McDaniels point of view. She is the closest Trump insider ever to go public, he added. Maddow and her snobby, self-righteous crowd made sure Ronna would not be heard, at least not on NBC. Thats not only inexplicable, it is indefensible.

At the same time, Rivera stressed that he shared the MSNBC hosts disagreement with McDaniels point of view: 75 Million Americans voted for Trump. Half of them still believe he got robbed. I reject the notion of election denial. It is patently false. I refuse to support Trump because of that reckless, bellicose falsehood. Thats my point of view, and I dont hesitate to share it.

NBC News reported Tuesday that NBCUniversal Group, the parent company of NBC News and MSNBC, agreed to comply with the requests of its on-air talent. In an email Tuesday, NBCUniversal Group Chairman Cesar Conde told staffers that after listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor.

Conde also said he wanted to personally apologize to our team members who felt we let them down.

He added, While this was a collective recommendation by some members of our leadership team, I take full responsibility for it.

Conde, however, also defended his initial hiring of McDaniel as part of the networks deep commitment to presenting our audiences with a widely diverse set of viewpoints and experiences, particularly during these consequential times. He stressed that we continue to be committed to the principle that we must have diverse viewpoints on our programs, and to that end, we will redouble our efforts to seek voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum.

McDaniel was first elected to lead the RNC in 2017, shortly after Trump took office. While she remained on good terms with the former president for the most part, she had become a target for criticism among some in the Republican Party in light of the partys lackluster performance in recent elections.

At one of the Republican presidential primary debates last year, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy criticized her results as RNC chair: Since Ronna McDaniel took over as chairwoman of the RNC in 2017, we have lost 2018, 2020 [and] 2022 and got trounced in 2023. He called on the then-RNC Chairwoman to come on stage tonight and look GOP voters in the eye and tell them you resign.
Home News Idaho passes law barring discrimination against adoptive parents for religious reasons

Idaho has passed a law that prohibits the state from discriminating against adoption agencies or parents seeking to adopt on the basis of their sincerely-held religious beliefs.

Gov. Brad Little signed House Bill 578 into law on Monday, not long after the proposed legislation overwhelmingly passed both houses of the state Legislature. The law is slated to take effect in July.

The state government shall not take any discriminatory action against a person that advertises, provides, or facilitates adoption or foster care services wholly or partially on the basis that the person has provided or declined to provide any adoption or foster care service or related service based on or in a manner consistent with a sincerely held religious belief, the new law states, in part.

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The state government shall not take any discriminatory action against a person who the state grants custody of a foster or adoptive child wholly or partially on the basis that the person guides, instructs, or raises a child, or intends to guide, instruct, or raise a child, based on or in a manner consistent with a sincerely held religious belief.

Alliance Defending Freedom Legal Counsel Greg Chafuen, whose organization has successfully argued religious freedom cases before the United States Supreme Court, celebrated the law's passage.

We applaud Idaho for prioritizing the well-being of kids by prohibiting state and local government officials from discriminating against adoption and foster care providers and parents simply because of their religious beliefs and moral convictions, said Chafuen in a statement released Monday.

This law helps children benefit from as many adoption and foster care agencies as possible, faith- and non-faith-based alike.

HB 578 was first introduced in February, passing the Idaho House in a vote of 64-4-2 and then the Idaho Senate by a vote of 32-2-1 before being signed by the governor.

Amy Dundun of the American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho testified against the bill while it was still making its way through the state Legislature, arguing that it could harm LGBT minors.

Our concern is about the treatment of LGBTQ kids in particular who once placed in a foster care situation might be forced to undergo certain medical treatments. ... I'm thinking conversion therapy, things like that that may be harmful to the child, stated Dundun, as reported by CBS 2.

Idahos law is passed at a time when Christians in other states have run afoul of measures requiring them to affirm the LGBT identity of kids that they might adopt.

Last year, with the help of the ADF, Jessica Bates of Oregon sued state officials over a rule mandating that adoptive parents affirm the sexual orientation and gender identity of an LGBT-identified child.

U.S. District Judge Adrienne Nelson denied Bates a preliminary injunction, however, arguing that the rules apply to people regardless of religion and do not stop them from practicing their faith.

Indeed, it appears that the rationale behind why an applicant would be unable to accommodate a childs LGBTQ+ identities is irrelevant, wrote Nelson, as reported by the Oregon Capital Chronicle.

The only relevant inquiry is the applicants willingness and ability, not their reasoning. Plaintiff has not shown that the government is endorsing secular viewpoints over religious viewpoints in its application of the rule.
Home News 'The Inside Story': Marjorie Taylor Greene's hearing on the aborted baby parts 'black market'

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene recently led a U.S. House of Representatives hearing titled "Investigating Baby Organ Harvesting Black Market, an eyebrow-raising proceeding that explored truly contentious claims.

From shocking declarations from pro-life activists to disturbing imagery, Christian Post reporter Samantha Kamman joins Billy Hallowell on this week's "Inside Story" podcast to explore the hearing's most important highlights. Read more about the hearing, here.

The Inside Story takes you behind the headlines of the biggest faith, culture and political headlines of the week. In 15 minutes or less, Christian Post staff writers and editors will help you navigate and understand whats driving each story, the issues at play  and why it all matters.

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Listen to more Christian podcasts today on the Edifi app  and be sure to subscribe to "The Inside Story" on your favorite platforms:

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Home News Mom condemns county for declaring Transgender Day of Visibility on Easter: 'Narcissism problem'

A Virginia mom believes a recent unanimous vote by a Fairfax County board to celebrate Transgender Day of Visibility this upcoming Easter Sunday sends a denigrating message to Christians on one of their holiest days.

Last week, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted 9-0 in favor of designating Easter Sunday as Transgender Visibility Day, which is observed each year on March 31. One member of the board, Republican Pat Herrity, was not present for the vote.

In a Tuesday op-ed for The Washington Examiner, Stephanie Lundquist-Arora, a mother and the Fairfax chapter leader of the Independent Women's Network, suggested that the vote appears to go beyond attempting to make trans-identifying people feel "seen."

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"Members of the board are also sending a message to Christians that they do not matter as they turn one of their holiest days into a celebration of an ideology that undermines the church's core convictions," the mother wrote.

Lundquist-Arora contends that if the board members truly wish to represent their constituents, then they could have designated another day as Transgender Visibility Day. The mother asserted it was inappropriate and unnecessary.

"The transgender activist community does not have a visibility problem in northern Virginia. But it does appear to have a narcissism problem," Lundquist-Arora wrote.

"Fairfax County School Board, for example, has designated June as LGBT Pride Month and October as LGBT History Month. The community gets two full months of celebration in our district's schools. Apparently, that just wasn't enough."

She accused the county of making an "illogical decision to hijack Easter as an opportunity to celebrate the governing body's ideological homogeneity."

Responding to a Wednesday inquiry from The Christian Post, Clayton Medford, who serves as Fairfax Board of Supervisors chief of staff under Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay, pointed to an online video of the March 19 Board of Supervisors meeting.

He also provided a copy of a March 5 Joint Board Matter that included a motion for the Board of Supervisors to proclaim this year's Easter Sunday the Transgender Day of Visibility in Fairfax County. According to the document, March 31 is observed nationwide as the International Day of Transgender Visibility and was created in 2009.

In the video provided to CP, loud applause followed Chairman McKay's announcing the proclamation for a "Transgender Day of Visibility" as the next item on the agenda.

"As an elected official, it should be our moral responsibility to stand up for all people that we represent, not just the people we like or we agree with," McKay said. "But stand up for all people in our community, especially those who are persecuted relentlessly by people who think that that shows strength when in reality it shows a tremendous amount of weakness to walk out on people and not stand up for them."

The chairman cited a report from The Washington Post that reportedly found an increase in hate crimes in states that have enacted "laws restricting LGBTQ+ student rights and education." In Virginia, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin released a directive prohibiting schools from hiding a student's gender identity from his or her parents. Certain states have also enacted legislation to prohibit minors from undergoing body-altering treatments to change their sex.

McKay accused elected officials behind these types of laws of engaging in persecution "without regard for human life, and without regard for human dignity."
Home News RFK Jr. taps Nicole Shanahan as his running mate

A major third-party candidate for President of the United States has announced his vice presidential pick as he seeks to gain ballot access in all 50 states ahead of the 2024 presidential election.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is running a third-party presidential campaign in the 2024 presidential election, announced his vice presidential pick at a campaign event Tuesday. Kennedy spoke to a crowd of supporters in Oakland, California before introducing Nicole Shanahan as his running mate.

Nicoles personal story began in Oakland, he explained. She was the daughter of impoverished immigrants. She grew up on food stamps and welfare in this city beset by many, many other unique challenges, all of which she overcame. Her very, very American journey took her to a career as a patent attorney and as a Silicon Valley tech entrepreneur and as a Stanford University fellow. Like many of us, Nicole assumed our government was working for our people.

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Kennedy listed other assumptions made by Shanahan as our defense and intelligence agencies wanted peace, that public health agencies wanted us to be healthy, that the USDA supported wholesome foods and family farms, that the EPA would stand up for clean air and clean water, that the Fed wanted a prosperous America, that the Democratic Party was on the side of the middle class, the working poor and Main Street small businesses, that scientists were incorruptible and that the science was  an exalted search for the truth.

The candidate assured the audience that Shanahan has now concluded that the defense agencies work for the military-industrial complex, that health agencies work for Big Pharma, that the USDA works for big ag and the processed food cartels, that the EPA is in cahoots with the polluters, that the scientists can be mercenaries, that government officials sometimes act as censors and that the Fed works for Wall Street and allows billionaire bankers to prey upon Main Street and the American worker.

Thats why Nicole and I both left the Democratic Party, he noted to thunderous applause.

Shanahan, 38, appeared in a video played at the event, discussing how what young people are facing today is completely unprecedented and its going to take a new generation of leadership that understands deeply those threats because they are themselves technologists to address the issues at hand.

Its going to take leadership that has spent their life in technology. Its going to take leadership that understands what questions to ask, how to ask them and what it looks like to implement a plan. This is not the America of the 1950s. This is the America of 2024 and in this America, its going to take communities coming to the White House that never have actually been in the White House.

Shanahan added, These are going to be tech communities; these are going to be Gen Z communities, these are going to be millennial communities who really believe that working together is going to get us to a healthier America with solutions that actually work.

She acknowledged that while she was half-Chinese, half-Caucasian, to the people around me, I was Nicole.

Shanahan appeared before the crowd to elaborate on her history of political activism, which began when she became an anti-war activist in high school. She identified her purpose in life as to serve peace and to help those in poverty.

You can understand why I gravitated to the Democratic Party because that was supposed to be the party of peace, the party of compassion. Many Democrats, we still believe in those ideals but unfortunately, as an institution, it has lost its way.

Shanahan informed the audience that she was leaving the Democratic Party while expressing confidence that she was taking the best ideals and impulses with me. Maintaining that the Democratic Party is supposed to be the party of compassion as well as diplomacy and science in addition to civil liberties and free speech and the party of the middle class and the American dream, she reiterated that they have lost their way in their leadership.

Shanahan also invited disillusioned Republicans to join her in this movement to unify and heal America. She praised the Kennedy campaigns vision of national healing and an America that leads the world no longer through force of arms but through the power of example.

It is an America where everyone who works hard can afford a decent life, it is an America where people of all races receive fair and equal treatment under the law, it is an America whose freedoms are the envy of the world, it is an America with honest and transparent government institutions, she added. Shanahan vowed to work with Bobby Kennedy to make America once again a country of peace, a country of compassion, [and] a country that is prosperous and free.

Kennedy has emerged as an alternative for voters dissatisfied with the two major party candidates for president: President Joe Biden, a Democrat, and former President Donald Trump, a Republican.

The RealClearPolitics average of polls asking voters who they support in a three-way race, based on polls taken from Jan. 22-Mar. 21, shows Kennedy capturing 12.3% of the vote compared to Trumps 40.7% and Bidens 35.3%.

While Kennedy remains significantly behind Trump and Biden, should he capture 12.3% of the vote as projected, he would become the first third-party candidate to break double digits in a presidential election since Ross Perot in 1992. The RealClearPolitics average of polls taken since Feb. 25 asking voters who they support in a five-way race between the two major party nominees as well as Kennedy, independent candidate Cornel West and Green Party candidate Jill Stein shows Kennedy capturing 9.9% of the vote.

In such a scenario, Kennedy remains far behind Trump, who captures 41.7% and Biden, whose support is measured at 39.4%. However, he is significantly ahead of the other two third-party candidates. West receives 2% support while Stein captures 1.4%.

Kennedys campaign will largely depend on his ballot access. Currently, Kennedy has only secured ballot access in four states: Nevada, Utah, Hawaii and New Hampshire. Those states boast a combined 20 electoral votes, far short of the 270 electoral votes needed to secure the presidency. The campaign is working to get on the ballot in all 50 states.
Home News Ahead of Easter, Shane & Shane urge worship leaders to return to simplicity: 'At our worst, He does His best'

As Easter Sunday approaches and worship leaders are pressured to create meaningful services amid the high expectations of congregations and church leadership, worship duo Shane & Shane are calling for a return to simplicity and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

You can let the pressure just go away because, at the end of the day, it is completely up to God, Shane Barnard told The Christian Post. What happens at any given service, Easter service week, after Easter service, Christmas service, it's all Him. At our worst, He does His best. When the power goes off, there's nothing there but people and the Holy Spirit of God.

"In the fast-paced, secularized, Hollywood feel of, I need to do it like that church, just let that go away. Know if youre in Gods family, you have everything you need. Thats straight from the Scripture: 'He will satisfy your heart.' No approval from man or congregation will satisfy your heart. Show up, do the best you can, and then be with your family. The pressures off. Youre free in Jesus. Enjoy this Easter, dont be entangled by the pressures of pleasing man.

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For over two decades, Shane Barnard and Shane Everett have been creating music together, collaborating with other chart-topping artists, including Michael W. Smith, David Crowder and Keith and Kristyn Getty to create some of todays most-loved worship songs. The Dallas, Texas-based duo are passionate about creating scripturally sound, God-glorying music  and equipping the next generation to do the same.

Theyre behind The Worship Initiative, an online platform designed to support and equip worship leaders and musicians with resources that foster a deep, scriptural foundation in their ministry. The initiative seeks to counteract the issue of biblical illiteracy among worship songwriters by encouraging the creation of music deeply rooted in Scripture.

Barnard and Everett began working on the project nearly a decade ago, inspired by Colossians 3:16: Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.

Recently, The Worship Initiative collaborated with Gloo, a tech platform used by 65,000 churches, to expand its reach.

We believe that as the Bride is healthy and satisfied and equipped by the Spirit, then it's going to be doing what the Bride has always done, and that's point to Jesus, Everett said. We want people pointed to Jesus because Hes going to gather all of His kids, and Hes going to come back. Were saying, Hey, let's get this party started. Let's go out and share the good news of Christ. We want the church to be healthy. So we're going to sit over here and we're going to make content and resources for the Church to believe who they are in Him and know He's put them here for a purpose, and that purpose is to bring the Kingdom of God back.

Barnard added that those involved in worship ministry, whether they are volunteers, part-time, or full-time workers, even in large churches, often struggle with isolation and other challenges and need community support.

We exist to encourage you, he said. We have a lot of different corners on our site. We have a big team that works all day long just to create resources and community for you, wherever you're at."

The duo weighed in on the challenges and shifts within modern worship music, particularly focusing on the importance of biblical literacy and communal worship.

Other modern hymn writers like Keith Getty, whom the duo have shared a stage with at the Getty's Sing! Conference, have raised concerns about the diminishing scriptural foundation in contemporary worship songs.

We did a songwriting class a few years ago, and a lot of the students, I don't think, had ever been in the Word; theyd never been encouraged to be in the Word, Everett said. We saw a couple of kids come to faith. These kids were in ministry school, they were serving in the church and were like, Man, I don't think I've ever read that before. We want people to know theres a feast available in the Word of God.

And amid growing biblical illiteracy, Barnard emphasized their proactive stance: One of our little mottos around here is stop griping about it and start writing about it, he said. We have a whole section on The Worship Initiative called The Writer's Well. We do writing retreats, and we have students come in the summer and you can submit songs. The focus is on writing songs directly from God's Word. It's just that simple.

Everett added that he and Barnard "basically plagiarize Scripture" when they write their songs, adding: Its important to fill people's mouths and ears with things that are true."

Its so weighty and so heavy," he said. "We want to be a place where songs are filled with truth and God's Word and good theology. We just want to surround ourselves with folks like that. ... We don't want things that are fake or rooted in emotion. An emotional experience is not what we're after. We're after seeing and savoring the real, true God in spirit and truth.

Looking ahead, Shane & Shane articulated a vision for worship that emphasizes participation over performance. Through The Worship Initiative, the duo is actively encouraging a shift toward more engaging and communal worship experiences, fostering deeper connections among believers and with God.

And over the years, Barnard said, hes witnessed a growing importance of singing together in worship services, moving away from passive listening to active participation. He expressed hope that the future of worship might look more like its past, with congregations engaging more directly in worship through singing.

I think well be seeing a lot less of, We're going to put on a show and perform for you and a lot more, What can we do up here on a stage to facilitate teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom so that the Word of Christ might dwell richly in us through singing? Barnard said.

My hope is that in the future, singing to Jesus will become a lot more corporate than individual.

Learn more about The Worship Initiative here.


Home News Thousands baptized after watching Phil Robertson's story of addiction, redemption, says Korie Robertson

The Robertson family of Duck Dynasty fame has always been open about their lives, both good and bad, even candidly depicting Phil Robertsons early struggles with alcohol addiction in the film The Blind.

Its exactly this kind of transparency that has allowed audiences of all backgrounds to feel a genuine connection to the Robertson family.

We want to show God's faithfulness to us, Korie Robertson told The Christian Post. We went to Phil to talk to him about doing this movie because it's his story. He shows the hardest parts of his life, and that's tough to put it out there on the screen.

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The Blind, now streaming on Great American Pure Flix, unpacks Phils story from his childhood through 1985 and focuses on the challenges faced by the bearded Louisiana native and his wife, Kay Robertson, during the early years of their marriage. Disillusioned by his fathers abandonment of his family, Robertson is shown struggling with anger issues, alcoholism and emotional instability  until he surrenders his life to Jesus.

At the heart of "The Blind" lies a narrative of redemption and faithfulness, themes deeply intertwined with the Robertson family's journey. Korie highlighted the significance of portraying the raw and broken parts of their story to underscore God's unwavering faithfulness.

Phil said, from day one, If it impacts one person, if one person changes their life and gives their life to Jesus, because of my story, because of the darkest parts of my story, I'll do it. It'll be worth it. One of the greatest rewards has just been to read the comments and read the emails that have come in that have told us the life change that has happened in people's lives after seeing this film.

Korie, who is married to Phils son, Willie, said the family has heard countless stories of those who've been baptized, delivered from addiction or seen their marriages healed after watching the movie. Some of the baptisms, she said, have happened right in Phils backyard.

I wish we knew how many thousands of people have been baptized in that river right behind Phil and Kay's house because Phil loves to baptize people and has done it right there in his backyard for years and years and years," she said.

"People would head straight to the church or head straight to the body of water right after seeing the movie; one group had like 27 baptisms, and right after the film, everyone just kind of continued and went somewhere worshiped.

One woman said her husband had been an alcoholic for 17 years, he never goes to the movies with her. She convinced him to come to the movie with her because he loved Phil and our show. He reached over and held her hand for the first time in years while they were watching the movie. I read that and just bawled.

As a producer on the film  and a member of the family  Korie Robertson said delving into her in-law's story also impacted her views of redemption and family unity. It was profoundly emotional, she said, to witness the power of forgiveness and transformation.

One of the things Kay taught me early on is forgiveness and its impact and power, she said. Theres this narrative that we have in the world that people can't change, and seeing their lives and Phil's life showed me early on that people can change, they can and they do. You can hold out hope for that.

Being honest and open about their lives hasnt always come without a cost; Robertson shared how her family has faced criticism over the years, most famously in 2013, when Duck Dynasty was suspended after Phil shared his belief that homosexuality is a sin.

I'm pretty immune to [criticism], Robertson said. We talked to our kids so many times, from an early age, from whenever we very first started Duck Dynasty and said, You only need to listen to the people who know you and love you, and to God.

Recently, she said, her daughter, podcaster Sadie Robertson Huff, went through a couple of really strong criticisms on social media that really hurt her."

We talk about what we know to be true, what's really important," she said. "We have to, in humility, go to the Lord and say, Hey, is there something here that I need to learn or I need to hear? We just circle it back in and look to God and to one another for where we get our wisdom and our strength.

Now a grandmother herself, Robertson said shes seen firsthand the power and impact of raising children who know and love the Lord and how that kind of relationship can change the trajectory of ones life, as demonstrated by Phils testimony.

When Phil got baptized that day, and Kay turned her life to Jesus, that life change has changed not only their life but our life and our kids' lives and will impact generations to come, she said.

Today, the Robertsons continue to use their platform for good, nearly seven years after Duck Dynasty ended.

In April, Korie and Sadie Robertson are speaking at The Chosen Conference at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, which seeks to empower local churches to establish adoption and foster care ministry within their church and community, engage believers to understand their role in supporting adoption and foster care and equip families who have been called to adopt and foster.

Robertson, whose family has both fostered and adopted children, said the issues are close to her heart.

We love family, we love big families, she said. Were excited to be there  we have a belief that all life matters, that we are made in the image of God, and every single life matters. It has value and worth. Sadie's whole entire ministry is Live Original because when she was little, Willie called her the original. Its this idea that we are all made original, we all are made unique, and God fashioned each and every one of us. Theres nothing more important than that.

Robertson encouraged parents to pray for their children in a culture that might not always support such beliefs. Reflecting on her own experiences as a parent, she recounted a pivotal moment during a Bible study where she was prompted to identify the core values she wished to impart to her children.

"That night, I chose 'strong and kind,'" she said.

I thought, they need to be strong in this world, it's not going to be easy, there's going to be things that are going to sway them and knock them, Robertson added. I envisioned growing their roots deep so that when the tough times come, their roots are deep, they're the strong tree that's planted by the living water that the Scripture talks about in Psalm 1. Have them ready to be strong and know that they can be strong in the Lord.
Home Opinion The Holy Spirits most supernatural work

Many of the Holy Spirits works in history are unique in unfolding Gods eternal plan. The purpose of ordering the plans of God accomplished by the Spirit through creation, revelation, and special empowerment has been finished. Creation is complete, the Spirit-inspired Word is complete, and Spirit empowerment functioned at key transitional periods in the history of redemption that finished their intended purpose. Therefore, we should not expect these sorts of extraordinary works until the next stage in redemptive history  when the Anointed King comes again.

However, some of the ordinary activities of the Spirit have been at work since the beginning of time and will continue until the eternal kingdom. The most notable of these is the Holy Spirits work in salvation.

Scripture appropriates specific acts to each divine person of the godhead in the salvation of Gods elect. The Father planned salvation and sent his Son into the world to save his people. The Son took on flesh, lived a perfect life, and died to pay the penalty of sin, accomplishing redemption for his people. And as with other aspects of Gods eternal plans, the Spirit actively works to order and complete Gods plan of salvation in the lives of his elect.

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This work begins with convicting sinners. Jesus promised that he would send the Spirit to convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment (Jn 16:8). Without the Spirits conviction, sinners would have no spiritual awareness of their need of salvation. Conviction is the first step in bringing sinful, disordered souls into order and harmony with Gods perfect will.

Regeneration

Next, the Spirit gives new life. Jesus specifically identified the Spirit as the one who gives new birth (Jn 3:5, 8). Likewise, Paul describes him as the Spirit of life (Rom 8:2) and tells us in Titus 3:5 that God saved us by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit. This work of the Spirit ties directly to his very first work  creation. The regenerating work of the Spirit is his recreation of dead sinners into new creations (2 Cor 5:17).

Some theologians also refer to this regenerating act of the Spirit as illumination. This doctrine of illumination is one area where many Christians have unbiblical thinking in which they assume illumination means that the Spirit will reveal to us the meaning of Scripture. However, the reality is that Spirit illumination is part of the Spirits regeneration that happens at conversion.

One of the key texts is 1 Corinthians 1:182:16. In this passage, Paul describes the fact that the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God (1 Cor 1:18). This passage clearly teaches that a key difference between believers and unbelievers is the fact that unbelievers simply do not recognize the truthfulness, beauty, and authority of Gods Word (specifically the gospel), while a believer is one who has come to recognize Scripture as such, not because of any human persuasion, but simply through the Spirit and of power (2:4).

Another key passage is 1 Corinthians 2. Verses 1013 speak of the inspiration of Scripture by means of apostles and prophets. However, verses 1416 do touch on what we may describe as Spirit illumination.

The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things but is himself to be judged by no one. For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

The key phrase is does not accept the things of the Spirit of God. When the natural man reads Scripture, he does not accept it as Gods authoritative revelation. Rather, he sees it as foolishness. He does not understand its spiritual significance.

On the other hand, the spiritual person recognizes the Word of God for what it is and therefore submits himself to it. These verses do not speak of intellectual understanding but spiritual understanding. If we want to use the term illumination to describe whats going on in these verses, it refers to the Spirits regenerating work to cause his elect to recognize the significance and authority of the written Word of God. Furthermore, this act of the Spirit is not something that necessarily happens in separate points of time as we read the Word; rather, it is something that comes as a result of the new birth  the Spirit gives us new life and enlightens our hearts and minds to recognize the significance of his Word.

In other words, 1 Corinthians 2 refers to two acts of the Spirit: inspiration, whereby the authors of Scripture wrote the very words of God, and illumination, whereby believers are enabled to recognize the spiritual significance of the Word of God.

2 Corinthians 4 makes a similar assertion, this time using explicit language of enlightening. The gospel is veiled to those who are perishing (2 Cor 4:3), Paul argues. Believers accept and submit to the Gospel only because God has enlightened their hearts:

For God, who said, Let light shine out of darkness, has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (2 Cor 4:6).

This is illumination  a work of Gods Spirit upon a believer whereby he recognizes the beauty and glory of the gospel and therefore willingly submits himself to it. It should not surprise us that the same divine person who brought order out of chaos and light out of darkness at the beginning of time is the same one who enlightens dark hearts and brings order to disordered souls in conversion.

John Calvin argued, Mans mind can become spiritually wise only in so far as God illumines it ... The way to the kingdom of God is open only to him whose mind has been made new by the illumination of the Holy Spirit.1 An illumined believer finds value and worth in what he is reading, because it is the very Word of God. He delights in the Word of God (Ps 1:2); he loves Gods Word (Ps 119:97).

As Calvin seems to suggest, illumination begins at conversion, not as distinct occurrences later: Christ, when he illumines us into faith by the power of the Spirit, at the same time so engrafts us into his body that we become partakers of every good.2 From the moment our hearts are enlightened at conversion, we recognize the truthfulness and beauty of Scripture, and therefore we delight in it for the rest of our lives. An enlightened believer does not doubt or reject Gods Word.

When an unbeliever reads Scripture, he may understand everything he is reading, but he simply does not recognize what he is reading to be the very words of God. An illumined believer, however, recognizes that what he is reading in Scripture is from God. As Rolland McCune argues, illumination removes mans innate hostility toward God and Scripture and imparts intuitive certainty that Scripture is from God and is, therefore, truth and authoritative.3

In this sense, there really is no such thing as a believer who has not been illumined; the enlightening of the mind and heart that removes any doubt as to the truth of Gods written Word occurs at the moment the Spirit regenerates a new believer. J. I. Packer observes that illumination opens minds sinfully closed so that they receive evidence to which they were previously impervious ... It is the witness of the Spirit ... which authenticates the canon to us.4

This new birth immediately results in repentance and faith. Regeneration itself is experiential, but its actual effects that are experienced by an individual is his expression of repentance of sin and faith in Jesus Christ, both of which are gifts of God that result from the Spirits regenerating work (Eph 2:89). First John 5:1 says that everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God. Spirit-wrought regeneration has to come first  a dead heart would never respond in faith on its own (Eph 2:5), but once the Spirit brings new life, the individual will believe.

Indwelling

As a result of the regenerating work of the Spirit, he also permanently indwells all believers. Jesus promised his disciples that he would send them the Spirit of truth and that he would be with [them] forever (Jn 14:16, 17). This abiding work of the Spirit is absolutely necessary for sanctification to take place. Paul makes this point in Romans 8, where he argues that those who are in the flesh cannot please God. The only possible way we can please God is because the Spirit of God dwells in you (Rom 8:8, 9).

The indwelling ministry of the Holy Spirit, which is true for all Christians from the moment of their conversion, means that all three persons of the triune God indwell believers  we are filled with all the fullness of God. In Ephesians 3:17, Paul refers to Christ dwelling in our hearts as a result of the Spirits work, and indeed, Paul mentions Christ dwelling us in Romans 8:9, Galatians 2:20, and Colossians 1:27. Jesus himself said that in sending the Spirit to his disciples, I will come to you, and as a result, you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you (Jn 14:18, 20). Communion with God is possible because of the indwelling ministry of the Holy Spirit of God.

This relational nature of the Spirits indwelling should also help us avoid thinking of the Spirits indwelling presence as something spatial and material, as if a ghost possesses someones body. It is not spatial, but relational. The Spirits indwelling presence is not about location, it is about his work within the believers life. This work results in communion with the triune God, in assurance and in sanctification.

Assurance

The Bible also speaks of the Holy Spirit as sealing our salvation, giving us inner assurance that we are indeed children of God, which is a result of his indwelling presence. Paul states,

"And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee" (2 Cor 1:2122).

Later Paul describes the Spirit as a pledge (2 Cor 5:5). Likewise, he says in Ephesians 1:13, In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the Gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.

This is an objective reality, but it also results in subjective, experiential assurance. Paul assures believers that the Spirit himself bears witness with our spirits that we are children of God (Rom 8:16). This is not through new revelation or inner promptings, but rather through the Spirit giving us an inner confidence in Gods Word and in the relationship that we have with him through the Gospel.

Praise the Holy Spirit

Does the Holy Spirit of God actively work today? Clearly, he does  salvation would not be possible without him. Each of these works that the Spirit accomplishes to perfect and complete the plan of the Father and the atoning work of Christ for his elect is a divine work, and these works will continue until the end of the age.

Most of these works are experiential  the believer experiences the effects of what the Holy Spirit does. He is convicted of his sin, only because of the Spirits active work. His mind and heart are given new life and enlightened to the beauty and truth of Christ and the Gospel. The Spirit experientially indwells the believer and gives him assurance that he is now a child of God. None of these works will have immediately observable, external effects like speaking in tongues or prophecy, but they are such transformative, life-altering divine acts that the person in whom the Holy Spirit does these things will never be the same.

And furthermore, though these divine acts of the Spirit are in one profound sense supernatural  they can only happen by the power of the Spirit, he accomplishes these works through natural means. The Holy Spirit convicts sinners (Jn 16:8), but he does so by means of the Word he inspired, which is profitable for such conviction (2 Tm 3:16).

The Holy Spirit regenerates dead hearts, but he does so by means of his Word. He does not zap new life in a persons heart independently of the Word  faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ (Rom 10:17). Part of the Spirits work of creating new life is putting his law within new believers and writing it on their hearts (Jer 31:33).

Likewise, the Spirits indwelling presence is his Word dwelling within us. The Spirit actively fills us with his Word, which results in all of the experiential benefits of his work (Eph 5:18, Col 3:16). I mentioned earlier the fact that the Spirits dwelling within us is often described as being filled with the fullness of the triune God (Eph 3:19), and so what Christ says about his abiding presence is true also of the Spirit. In John 15, Jesus equates his abiding within a believer with his words abiding within them. The same is true of the Spirit: for him to indwell a believer means that his Word indwells them.

And so it should not surprise us that the assurance the Spirit brings to a believer that he is a child of God also does not come apart from his Word. Ephesians 1:13 captures all of these works of the Spirit well and explicitly attributes them to the Word: In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.

Without the work of the Holy Spirit, there would be no salvation. God the Spirit completes and perfects the plan of God the Father and the atonement of God the Son in the lives of Gods elect. The Spirit brings order to disordered souls. And he accomplishes all that he does through his sufficient Word.

Dont ever think that because the Holy Spirit no longer empowers individuals in extraordinary ways or gives direct revelation he is no longer active in his divine work. No  without the Holy Spirit, no one would come to Christ in saving faith.

We ought to marvel daily in the Spirits incredible supernatural works in which he orders the souls of his elect and brings to completion Christs saving work on their behalf. In fact, when we desperately long for other extraordinary works of the Spirit, that actually causes us to miss the wondrous ways he is at work in the saving of souls. Praise the Holy Spirit for his amazing works in saving his people.

References

John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion (Philadelphia: Westminster John Knox Press, 1960), II, iii, 20. Calvin, Institutes, III, ii, 35. McCune, Systematic Theology: Volume 1, 56. J. I. Packer, Biblical Authority, Hermeneutics, and Inerrancy, in Jerusalem and Athens: Critical Discussions on the Theology and Apologetic of Cornelius Van Til, ed. E. R. Greehan (Phillipsburg, NJ: P&R, 1971), 143.



Originally published at G3 Ministries.
South Korea and the United States have launched a task force to effectively block North Korea from financing its unlawful nuclear and missile programs, the foreign ministry said Wednesday.

The inaugural meeting of the South Korea-U.S. bilateral Enhanced Disruption Task Force was held in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday (local time) with over 30 officials in areas of diplomacy, intelligence, sanctions and maritime interdiction, according to the ministry.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed ways to counter illicit efforts by North Korea to circumvent sanctions concerning the procurement of refined petroleum, stressing that importing refined oil in excess of the U.N.-mandated cap violates U.N. Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.

They also highlighted the need for close cooperation to counter the North's ability to procure petroleum, including from Russia, saying it directly contributes to the reclusive country's military readiness and its weapons development.

The two sides also agreed to consider slapping independent sanctions on individuals and companies involved in smuggling refined oil to North Korea.

In a separate release, the State Department said that through the task force, Seoul and Washington are pursuing a wide range of joint actions to disrupt the North's refined oil procurement networks, including by exposing its sanction evasion activities, reviewing options for autonomous sanction designations and engaging regional actors that facilitate the North's oil procurement either knowingly or unwittingly.

The two sides also discussed future areas of focus, including disrupting the North's illicit overseas coal sales, it added.

Under UNSC sanctions, the North is banned from importing more than 500,000 barrels of refined petroleum per year.

In a report released early Thursday, the panel under the U.N. Security Council sanctions committee on the North estimated North Korean-flagged tankers would have delivered 1,523,381 barrels between Jan. 1 and Sept. 15 last year. (Yonhap)
Fewer than half of Christians regularly attend church: Gallup

(CP) Three in 10 people in the United States attend religious services on a regular basis, representing a decline compared to the past couple of decades, according to a report by Gallup.

Gallup reported Monday that 21% of Americans said they attend religious services on a weekly basis, while 9% said they attend religious services nearly every week.

By contrast, 11% of respondents reported attending about once a month, 25% reported attending "seldom," while 31% said they "never" go to religious services.

This represents a decline from one decade ago, when Gallup found that 38% of Americans attended weekly or almost weekly, and from two decades ago, when 42% of Americans reported attending weekly or almost weekly.

For its research, Gallup drew from aggregated data from surveys conducted over the phone in 2021, 2022 and 2023, with previous samples being collected from surveys done in 2000-2003 and 2011-2013, respectively.

Gallup found that Mormons were the most likely to report going to their services regularly, with 67% saying they attended weekly or almost weekly. Protestants were the next highest at 44%, followed by Muslims (38%), Catholics (33%), Orthodox Christians (26%), Jews (22%), Buddhists (14%) and Hindus (13%).

The report also found that Catholics experienced the sharpest drop in attendance compared to two decades ago, going from 45% regular attendance in 2000-2003 to 33% in 2021-2023.

Over the past several years, much has been made about the rise of the religiously unaffiliated population in the United States, also known as the "nones," especially among younger generations.

In January 2023, for example, the Survey on American Life, a project of the American Enterprise Institute, released a report which found that church attendance still hadn't recovered from what it was before the COVID-19 lockdowns.

While the number of Americans who attended worship services had increased from 13% in the summer of 2020 to 27% by the spring of 2022, this was still below pre-pandemic levels.

Furthermore, according to the SAL, 33% of Americans reported in 2022 that they never attend religious services, an increase from the 25% who said the same before the pandemic.

The largest declines in attendance were seen among adults younger than 50, Hispanic Catholics, black Protestants, and white mainline Protestants, according to the 2023 study.

In December 2022, however, Gallup released an analysis indicating that the growth of religiously unaffiliated Americans was slowing down, having effectively "stabilized" since 2017.

 The Christian Post
Herdsmen kill pastor, five other Christians in central Nigeria

Fulani herdsmen killed a pastor and five other Christians in Nasarawa state, central Nigeria in attacks on Friday and Sunday, sources said.

In Keana County's Kadarko area, community leader Denis Utsa said Fulani herdsmen on Friday attacked the predominantly Christian village of Tse-Abir Azer on Friday, shooting two Christians to death, including a pastor who died the next day.

"The armed Muslim Fulani herdsmen invaded the Tse-Abir Azer area of Kadarko at about 4 p.m., and aside from those killed, dozens of other Christians sustained gunshot wounds," Utsa told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News in a text message. "A pastor, Kingsley Orshase, who was shot and injured by the terrorists, was conveyed to a hospital in Lafia on Saturday but died at the hospital due to the fatal wounds he sustained."

On Sunday the assailants killed four Christian farmers in the Kadarko area in a second round of attacks, he said.

"The death toll now stands at six Christians killed in the two days of attacks," Utsa said. "The terrorists also invaded a camp housing displaced Christians, forcing them to flee to Kadarko and Giza towns in the Keana Local Government Area. Some of these displaced Christians sustained life-threatening injuries, and they're being treated in some hospitals."

Ramhan Nansel, spokesperson for Nasarawa State Police Command, told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News that officers have been deployed to the area to curtail attacks.

Nigeria remained the deadliest place in the world to follow Christ, with 4,118 people killed for their faith from Oct. 1, 2022 to Sept. 30, 2023, according to Open Doors' 2024 World Watch List (WWL) report. More kidnappings of Christians than in any other country also took place in Nigeria, with 3,300.

Nigeria was also the third highest country in number of attacks on churches and other Christian buildings such as hospitals, schools, and cemeteries, with 750, according to the report.

In the 2024 WWL of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, Nigeria was ranked No. 6, as it was in the previous year.

Numbering in the millions across Nigeria and the Sahel, predominantly Muslim Fulani comprise hundreds of clans of many different lineages who do not hold extremist views, but some Fulani do adhere to radical Islamist ideology, the United Kingdom's All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom or Belief (APPG) noted in a 2020 report.

"They adopt a comparable strategy to Boko Haram and ISWAP and demonstrate a clear intent to target Christians and potent symbols of Christian identity," the APPG report states.

Christian leaders in Nigeria have said they believe herdsmen attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria's Middle Belt are inspired by their desire to forcefully take over Christians' lands and impose Islam as desertification has made it difficult for them to sustain their herds.

 2024 Morning Star News


Tribunal collapses in case of gender-critical Christian teacher

A panel of judges that was to hear the case of a gender-critical Christian teacher dismissed by her school has stepped down.

All three members of the employment tribunal recused themselves to avoid a "perception of bias" against the teacher, who cannot be named to protect the anonymity of the child.

The decision of employment judge Victoria Butler and lay members, Mr Javed Akhtar and Mr Jed Purkis, followed revelations of a social media post by Purkis that was said to demonstrate a "significant prejudice against Christians".

In another post, Purkis, a trade unionist, referred to supporters of the Conservative Party as "tumours".

Their recusal came on day six of the tribunal's hearing into the case of the teacher, who claims she was dismissed after raising safeguarding concerns about the school's affirming approach to an 8-year-old female pupil wanting to become a boy.

She was sacked after she shared information about the child with lawyers as she sought a judicial review into the school and local council's handling of the child's transition.

The Christian Legal Centre (CLC), which is supporting the teacher, said that the trial is expected to begin afresh later this year with a new panel.

Responding to the recusal, the teacher said: "It means a further delay to me receiving justice, but I have to have a fair trial. I am shocked that this is not the first time this has happened.

"I am determined to pursue justice over how I have been treated because my number one concern and motivation is to protect Child X and other children in this country from harmful transgender ideology in our schools.

"I was informed by my conscience as a Christian to live right before my God and also by the body evidence I had researched which informed me clearly that social transitioning young children is harmful."

Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, said that the teacher's story "exposes the confusion and untruths being embedded in primary schools over human sexuality and identity which are developing into a public health crisis".

"We will continue to pursue justice for as long as it takes in this case," she said.
The emerald ash borer is a metallic green wood-boring beetle that actively feeds on host plant foliage and lays eggs in crevices on host tree bark. The larvae bores into the sapwood, phloem, or cambium part of the bark, where they overwinter, feeding under the bark girdles and eventually leading to the tree's death.
Digitalisation plays a key role in the evolution of manufacturing industries. Foundrys Digital Business Study 2023 shows that 93% of manufacturers surveyed have adopted or plan to adopt a digital-first business strategy, driven by internal demands like cost reduction, operational efficiency improvements, continuous innovation and R&D as well as external pressures due to evolving enterprise client needs and even individual customer-experience requirements.

The integration of ICT into manufacturing technology is transforming the industry to meet these demands and sustain competitiveness in the long term. Digital technologies are fast becoming indispensable for enabling innovation, driving modern R&D, and streamlining production and supply.

Going digital is not only necessary for economic development, writes Liu Chao, CEO of Huaweis Manufacturing Business Unit, but it is also the key to building a modern economic system and shaping industrial competitiveness.

For Huawei, digitally transforming manufacturing through advanced ICT including 5G technologies, cloud computing, big data and AI, is the key to reshaping industries for the future.

Going Digital to accelerate Innovation and R&D

Todays customer demands digitally integrated and intelligent products. This is pushing digitalisation of R&D processes and innovation, driving investment in related fields. In the automotive sector for example, the advent of autonomous vehicles has resulted in burgeoning demand for computing power, cloud storage and network bandwidth.

One such automaker is Chinas First Automobile Works (FAW). FAWs new Technology Innovation Space is a smart industrial campus for testing intelligent and New Energy Vehicles (NEV). Huaweis Fiber to the Machine (FTTM) solution, incorporating fifth-generation fixed network (F5G) technology, provides the campus with secure, ultra-high bandwidth with low latency for data collection, testing, precision control, high-speed cameras, and intelligent office automation systems, and in the future will host even more applications such as office-to-cloud, IoT capabilities, and 4K video security.

Another leading manufacturer, BYD, first entered the automotive market in 2003. The company has since sold over four million NEVs and in 2022 became the top seller among NEV brands worldwide. To support such rapid growth, the company needed the right capabilities for its R&D network and production systems. BYD partnered with Huawei to build a 10 Gbps campus network featuring ultra-fast connectivity, enhanced user experience, a simplified architecture and simplified operations and maintenance (O&M). Huawei and BYD are taking their partnership further, to develop digital production platforms as well as AI-powered quality inspections solutions. When integrated with R&D systems, digital technologies help protect core knowledge assets while facilitating collaboration among R&D teams to streamline engineering design, simulation, and verification processes.

Digitalisation for Future-ready Production and Supply

For manufacturers, production and supply solutions are essential to managing mission-critical planning, logistics, quality control, and even equipment maintenance. Intelligent solutions enable manufacturers to improve efficiency and build up core competitiveness. The pervasiveness of IoT devices and connectivity is also allowing manufacturers to collect, analyse, and quickly act on data obtained through their networked devices, leading to enhanced efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and improved equipment availability thanks to preventive maintenance.

Kedali GmbH is a German firm that specialises in research, development, and production of precision components. The companys new plant includes production spaces, warehousing, and offices, combining operational technologies (OT) and IT. Kedali required uninterrupted Wi-Fi coverage throughout the plant to facilitate reliable communication between management systems to warehouse scanners and transport vehicles, as well as the collection, storage, and processing of data from product designs, manufacturing, and warehouse operations. Huaweis network solution, leveraging Wi-Fi 6 technology, has provided reliable, adaptive, and uninterrupted coverage as well as an excellent user experienceenabling comprehensive digitalisation of the plant, while achieving improved operating efficiency at a low maintenance cost.

In the area of production, increasingly complex products are expected to drive prioritisation of Make-to-Order practices over Make-to-Stock, implying that manufacturers will need to focus on enhancing their supply chain security and ensure business continuity to meet tight delivery timelines.

Polands All Windows Factory, a leading manufacturer of building materials and systems, focuses on automation, with autonomous warehouses and semi-autonomous logistic lines utilising machines controlled by integrated software. With plans to expand, the company needed to upgrade its IT capabilities especially for storage and processing. Huawei provided a metro cluster solution that achieved highly secure, uninterrupted high performance data storage, while significantly reducing All Windows carbon footprint through a range of energy-saving technologies. The success of the solution convinced All Windows to engage Huawei to revamp their network infrastructure as well, increasing speed, reliability and overall employee productivity.

Smart Manufacturing for an Intelligent Future

Huawei envisions a bright future for smart manufacturing for enhanced innovation, efficiency, and quality through IT/OT integration. Not only is it committed to working with industry partners to develop the best digital solutions for every scenario and driving digital transformation among manufacturers, it also believes that continuous interaction and exchange will advance digitalisation and adoption of intelligence across industries to create greater growth potential and ultimately shape a better future.

Click here to learn how Huaweis Intelligent manufacturing solutions can help transform your organisation.
South Korea's military seeks to acquire around 60 small and micro-sized spy satellites by 2030, a source said Wednesday, amid efforts to bolster independent monitoring capabilities against North Korean threats.

The military plans to launch around 10 to 20 small-sized reconnaissance satellites and some 40 microsatellites after acquiring five mid-sized spy satellites by 2025, according to the sources.

South Korea launched its first military spy satellite into orbit on a SpaceX rocket from a U.S. military base in California last December as part of a project to acquire the five mid-sized satellites, which have a mass of around 800 to 1,000 kilograms.

The source said authorities are pushing for the acquisition of small and micro-sized satellites as they determined that the mid-sized satellites were not enough to properly monitor North Korea.

The state arms procurement agency announced a plan last year to develop a microsatellite system by 2030.

Through the envisioned satellite constellation, the military is expected to monitor the Korean Peninsula every 30 minutes or less.

The small-sized satellites, which have a mass of less than 500 kilograms, and the microsatellites under 100 kilograms are planned to be launched from a homegrown solid-fuel space rocket.

The launch period for the small-sized satellites is said to be scheduled for 2026 to 2028, while that of the microsatellites will be from 2028 to 2030.

"The push for a homegrown solid-fuel space rocket also influenced the plan to acquire additional reconnaissance satellites," the source said.

Last December, the military successfully conducted its third test flight of a solid-fuel space rocket. (Yonhap)
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When Sarah McCammon, an NPR political correspondent and the author of the new book The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living, and Leaving the Evangelical Church, watched Chuck Todd and Kellyanne Conways infamous discussion of alternative facts on Meet the Press in January 2017, she found that the exchange reminded her of her upbringing in the white evangelical church. It was not only the invocation of competing facts that felt familiar, but also Conways threat to Todd to rethink our relationship when asked about matters that might have appeared unflattering to Donald Trump and his administration. The idea that inconvenient truths were out of bounds resonated with McCammons personal history. By the time she worked in her first newsroom, she was exhausted from trying to get my brain to conform to the contours of the supposed Truth that shed been taught, she writes in her book. And she was beginning to feel deceived.

McCammon was raised in the eighties and nineties in a homogeneous white evangelical Christian community in Kansas City, Missouri. She was taught to fear God and not to question her faith, and that the consequences for those who didnt fervently believe were, for now and eternity, too dire to risk. Such beliefs were then intertwined with politics, the Christian right having benefited from years of legislative success under presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. Indeed, the unwavering support of evangelical Christians helped create the powerful, entrenched Republican political engine that still pursues minority ideals, not least the overturning of Roe v. Wade, today.

For McCammon, though, encountering more of the world through journalismwhile developing a relationship with her grandfather, a gay, Harvard-educated neurosurgeon who was allowed only limited contact with the familyforced her to grapple with a worldview that was unraveling. Covering Trumps first presidential campaign for NPR showed her that she was not alone in her cognitive dissonance. As the leaders of Christian politics aligned with Trump, many young evangelicals grew disillusioned with what they saw as an incongruent choice. In the years since, a growing number of people have left the church and found one another over social media, often using the hashtag exvangelical. As McCammon met more former evangelicals, she decided to write a book about the movement that she herself was a part of, exploring why so many felt compelled to leave and what their experiences had to say about the connections between white evangelicals and the state of conservative politics.

Last week, I spoke with McCammon. We discussed how the media can better reach and report on evangelical Christians, how evangelicals came to endorse Trump at all, and the importance of understanding phenomena one doesnt necessarily condone. Our conversation has been edited for length and clarity.



KL: What is an exvangelical?

SM: An exvangelical is somebody who used to be an evangelical and doesnt identify that way anymore, which can happen for a variety of reasons. I became aware of the term while covering the 2016 presidential campaign and doing stories about evangelicals wrestling with the growing alignment between Trumpism, the far right, and the evangelical movement. Its not exclusive to Trumps moment, but I think a lot of the conversations that Im writing about were catalyzed by it.

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Do you think your upbringing as an evangelical Christian led you to pursue a career in journalism?

Not all evangelical families are this way, but my evangelical family was very focused on not only our faith and theological beliefs, but our political ideas. My parents, many of their friends, and the evangelical leaders they looked toJames Dobson, Tony Perkins, and Ralph Reedsaw their faith and politics as intertwined. So I grew up in an environment where ideas were important. There was a constant discussion about what to believe, how to live, what being a Christianat least, our version of Christianmeant in the larger world. I grew up thinking about these things and, as I got older, I felt a discomfort with the expectation to serve an ideological purpose or goal. I felt there were lots of sources of cognitive dissonance for me and aspects of my upbringing that didnt quite fit right.

As I was trying to make sense of those, journalism felt like a place where I had permission to explore ideas, and that was part of the mission itself. I was excited about working in a space where I was encouraged to ask questions and to consider multiple points of view. I realized that journalism, and journalists, dont always live up to thatand, of course, every publication has its own mission, purpose, history, and ideological sense. So I dont mean to portray the journalism industry or reporters as these idealistic, perfect bastions of objective thought, because thats not the case. But the ideals of journalism that I was taught aboutfact-checking, not assuming, trying to understand different points of view, soliciting multiple opinions, seeking out perspectives that are not your ownthat was taboo for me growing up. We have other perspectivesbut I was supposed to arrive at a particular one. Journalism felt like the inverse of that.

What does the media not understand in the way that it categorizes and characterizes evangelicals or the Christian right?

Like any large group of people, evangelicals arent monolithic. Evangelicalism is an umbrella term, and its a useful one. The evangelical movement is made up of different streams of thought, strands of theology, and subsets which follow a spectrum of ideas that inform the way people think about the world and politics. Approximately eight in ten white evangelicals support Donald Trump or have voted for him in the last two electionsthat means that two in ten did not. Those two in ten are interesting to me. Who are the people who still identify as evangelical but dont embrace that ideological and political project? There is a lot of focus on the high-profile, influential leaders, and thats for good reason. Theyre very powerful. But theres a lot of rank in the rank and file. Some people are very ideological. Other people are just following the crowd.

Can you explain how the evangelical community adopted someone like Trump as their candidate?

Trump was looking for a base of support, and evangelicals were looking for a champion for their ideas. As Robert Jones [the president of the Public Religion Research Institute] argues, the dominance of white Christianity has declined over many decades, and conservative white Christians have sensed an erosion of cultural power and what they see as a decline in the culture. They point to legitimate problems like poverty, and theres this belief that Christianity is a stabilizing force and, without it, everything falls apart. Theres also a belief, prevalent in a lot of the Christian literaturetextbooks, books, magazines, etc.common in evangelical homes, that America was set up as a Christian nation: that it was specially ordained by God, and that we have fallen away from that, which explains the cultural problems and societal challenges we face. When evangelicals heard Trump say Make America Great Again, that resonated with an idea that they already held. They were willing to look past his moral behavior, his rhetoric, in order to achieve a larger objective, which they saw as literally saving the country.

This has been a consistent pattern. In 2016, many of the Trump supporters or Republican voters I spoke to, including evangelicals, would talk about a binary choice between somebody who doesnt support any of our policy goalswhos going to let the country fall apartand somebody where We dont really like everything he does, but hes going to fight for us, for protecting Christianity, conservatives, and Supreme Court justices. Quite simply, they saw Trump as somebody who would champion their cause. Then he did. He delivered on the number one policy goal that many evangelicals have been pushing for decades, overturning Roe. Fast-forward to 2024, and white evangelicals have been hugely influential in making Trump the presumptive nominee again. Pew just released data showing that white evangelicals dont think that Trump is an evangelicalthey dont think hes an especially religious personbut they dont care. They see him as carrying out their goals, and existentially important.

Do you think exvangelicals will have an effect or influence on politics in this next election cycle? How do you think that the media should consider this growing demographic?

Right now, it is mostly a vocal critique that is developing its own language and an online community. I profile an extension church in Nashville thats not a political project, but is gathering around a shared post-evangelical history and a desire to explore Christianity with a more open approach to theology. Most of the people in that church would be politically progressive. The exvangelical movement, to the extent that there is one, has a leftward or a liberal flavor. There are a lot of people of color, women, who feel marginalized by evangelical spaces. But its early to say what it means politically. The growing number of people who dont identify with any religion at all suggests that a lot of those people are liberals, inclined to vote Democratic, but also that theyre not super politically engaged.

What seems clear is that the white evangelical base of the Republican Party is declining for a bunch of reasons. Will it be replaced by an equally organized countermovement? That is harder to say. Over time, the Republican Party will not be able to rely on the same number of energized white evangelical voters that they have for such a long time.

Do you have any advice on how best to communicate with or reach Christian-right or evangelical communitiesto understand and report on them more fairly or accurately?

The conversations we have in newsrooms about neutral language are really important, and sometimes theyre frustrating to people on both sides of the political spectrum, because people want to call a spade a spade, a lie a lie. I dont think we should shy away from that, but at the same time, thinking about how to say something in the most neutral, objective way possibleat least in the terminology we usecan help avoid shutting down a conversation before it starts. I covered abortion for several years and I feel like I almost speak two languages. I can hear how things will sound to liberals and to conservatives, because I grew up around conservatives and I know a lot of liberals. Im not saying we should shy away from the facts, but sometimes you can say the same thing two different ways. This is why, when talking about abortion, I like using medical language. Some people will always object to your choice of words, but we dont have to engage in unforced errors.

When it comes to engagement with ideas and people, curiosity is really important. Some of the ideas I grew up around were painful, but it also made me curious about where they came from and how people got there. I think my parents view of gay people is really harmful, and I make that very clear. But I also love my parents, and I think they loved my grandpa even though they didnt accept his sexuality. They didnt love him in the way that I would want to be loved or that most people would want to be loved. It was a kind of love, but it was complicated. Its important to understand how complicated people are and to be curious about how they got to where they are, even if they hold terrible ideas. Sometimes understanding the source is helpful for unpacking and disarming them. You can understand something without condoning it. Thats part of the work of history and journalism.



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Kevin Lind is a CJR fellow.
The conversation below has been adapted from the keynote and Q&A given at the Technology, Media, & Privacy Law Conference at the University of Florida in March 2024. We discussed how AI is the current description of trendy emerging technology and how Trust & Safety is the latest phrase that simply describes the traditional accountability work of journalism and law.

Anika uses her career journey to argue that the work remains the same even as the terms, technologies, and times change. We also highlight and discuss four recommendations for how people whose brains are dedicated to technology, media, privacy, law, and journalism can begin to create a better future including:

Creating more training in the field of journalism to prepare future practitioners to join the frontline work of Trust & Safety A full court press from every sector to come together and create comprehensive and practical external regulatory structures for AI and emerging technology because the purely self-regulatory model of internal Trust & Safety does not work Researchers, academics, journalists, and regulators working on AI, technology, and Trust & Safety needing to talk to the humans who have done, and are doing the work inside of companies Trust & Safety workers and whistleblowers who have left the industry creating our own lane as external watchdogs and advocates for change but needing help from academia, civil society, and philanthropy in making this alternative pathway a viable career

Anika: It is truly such an honor to be back at the University of Florida, the place where it all began for me.

As Ive thought about what I wanted to use my time to say at the Technology, Media, & Privacy Law Conference about Trust & Safety in an AI Dominated World, Ive been thinking about all those words: large language models, Trust & Safety, AI, technology policy, media law, privacy, and journalism.

Since I left this campus, my career has given me the opportunity to put most of these terms on my resume, which is probably part of the reason why Jasmine invited me to speak. But coming back home to UF has made me think about how it all started for me, what all these words mean, how they all fit together in practice, and what they mean for our future.

Like some of you, I was born on this planet before the internet. During my formative years, all of that changed. And by the time I received my acceptance packet in the mail from UF in the early 2000s, the very first thing I did with my .edu email account was sign up for this hot new website called The Facebook.

When I arrived on campus as a freshman in the College of Journalism and Communications, I had already used the site to virtually meet a network of people that would soon become my social circle in real life. I walked around campus with a hot pink Motorola Razr flip phone clipped to my hip and I used the desktop computers in the computer lab to type out my reporting assignments.

Back then, I had a love for words. And I had big dreams of making the world a different and hopefully better place, for the next generation. Though, I wasnt exactly sure how.

The summer after my first year of undergrad, I got a job as a copy clerk at my local hometown newspaper, the then St. Petersburg Times. The job was menial. I got mail, and made copies. But like many times along my journey, I seemed to be at the right place at the right time.

That summer, the largest newspaper in the state of Florida was going digital. I watched the design and layout floor that was once covered with easels and X-Acto knives be replaced by people sitting at MacBooks using InDesign. By the end of the summer I also got a new job: pushing publish on a website and bringing the Times reporting to the world wide web.

I could feel that something big was happening in that newsroom that summer. I begin to wonder what it all meant. I started questioning how the laws that were based on the printing press were going to adapt to regulate new emerging technologies. I wanted to know how I could be a part of figuring it all out.

Then, my senior year, I walked into a class required to graduate, and I found my intellectual home. This class was called media law. It covered the laws that outlined our core American rights, liberties and freedoms like expression and press freedoms. And to me, I saw a place where I could interrogate the impact of new technologies like the internet and social media to those rights.

I became determined to be an expert in media law. At the time, there were only three schools in the nation, including UF, who had programs that focused on the field or combined their journalism and law programs. I left UF and set out to explore the other two. And to stay connected with my community after graduation, I also signed up for the newest social media site on the block called Twitter.

I went next to the University of North Carolina School of Law. There, I devoured constitutional law and First Amendment classes. I got my first Blackberry, then my first iPhone, and my first MacBook. I became a research assistant for the Center for Civil Rights and the Center for Media Law and Policy. I dove head first into what was called cyber law and worked on a final class assignment to write terms of service for a fake website.

On Twitter, I watched as the Arab Spring unfolded and the new technology started to be credited with the power to shift politics and regimes. I wondered who was making the decisions and rules about the world changing expression that was happening on the platform.

By the time I was graduating from UNC, I realized that I wanted to do media policy, and somehow be a part of it all. I still had no idea what that really meant. But that calling carried me to Columbia Journalism School where the streets of New York City were still vibrating from the Occupy Wall Street movement.

Once again, I could feel that something big was happening in the world around me. So I began to write my thesis about how traditional constitutional principles like freedom of expression were expanding into social media. I titled it, The Revolution Will Be Tweeted.

At the time, when I told most people that I believed social media and Twitter were completely transforming our political reality, they laughed at me or looked at me like I was crazy. They doubted that a website that constantly experienced outages and revolved around breakfast opinions could produce a revolution.

I continued to believe differently. But, when I graduated, the field that would later be known as Trust & Safety didnt really exist. So as hard as I tried, I couldnt find a job that allowed me to work on policy about new media technologies. So instead, I spent a few years working in law firms while constantly checking job boards with search terms like media law and policy and civil rights and technology and technology policy.

Then one day I saw a posting for a job at a new think tank called Data & Society Research Institute. The work was dedicated to understanding the impacts of new technology on the society and culture forming around us. And the role was specifically focused on what was called back then big data and civil rights. The job description read like I had conjured my career dreams into reality. I applied, interviewed, and accepted the job. Id also eventually get the opportunity to meet Jasmine.

This was the beginning of 2015 and the Black Lives Matter Movement was growing both on social media and in protests in the streets of cities across the nation. In this backdrop, policing technologies boomed. And my work at Data & Society became exploring the policy and legal implications of a wide berth of technologies like: body worn cameras, social media surveillance, biometric collection and facial recognition software, predictive policing, predictive algorithms, and risk assessment tools.

Back then, making statements like technology is not neutral or there is bias baked into artificial intelligence or no, its not like the movie Minority Report, were radical and controversial. But I was determined to beat the drum and lay the groundwork.

By summer of 2016, I began leading new work that was called platform accountability at the civil rights organization Color of Change. I wrote a policy framework and campaign playbook that I hoped could begin to reign in the power of technology and social media companies. Soon, I was working with AirBnB on the first civil rights audit of a tech company.

By the end of 2016, I found myself in Twitters headquarters speaking with the head of its growing Trust & Safety team. We were debating how the platforms policies seemed to be insufficient in the dawn of what would become The Trump Era. Then she asked me what I would do to fix the policies that I was complaining about.

At that moment, I realized that I didnt really know. I had no idea what levers to pull or what language to write that would make meaningful impact. I didnt know how the Twitter machine worked. It was something I couldnt stop thinking about when I left the Twitter offices. Especially as reporting and research uncovered the vital role that social media played in the 2016 election and as social media was used to incite genocide in Myanmar.

By 2019, I decided to join the Trust & Safety team at Twitter. Looking back, I can say that despite my background, I honestly had no idea what I was getting myself into.

My job as a senior policy official was to write and enforce the rules for what people could and couldnt say on Twitter. My team was responsible for several policy areas like abuse, harassment, privacy, hate speech, violence, sensitive media, non consensual nudity, and misinformation. We were the highest level of content moderation for the platform.

And it was a baptism by fire. The first week of 2020, my boss came to me with a simple request: could you make sure that World War III doesnt start on the platform? Somehow, over the next 48 hours, my team and I wrote policy recommendations for how information should safely flow on Twitter in the midst of a geopolitical crisis to avoid offline violence.

Throughout 2020, my team and I would repeat this responsibility as protests broke out around the world in response to COVID-19 mask mandates and stay at home orders. The pandemic also brought a new wave of misinformation and radicalized politics. I watched as fringe ideas like the violent overthrow of the United States government or a second civil war began to gain traction on Twitter.

By the summer of 2020, protests were spreading around the world and the tenor of the conversation on Twitter was changing. More people were beginning to talk about the need for a new American Revolution.

It all reached a fever pitch during the 2020 election.

Now, here is the part of my story where I usually start talking about coded language and writing policies. Then I get into the part about how I tried for months to warn Twitters leadership that people were openly planning for violence on January 6th. Next, theres usually the part about being asked to spring into action on January 6th. And then theres the arguments I wrote and made on January 8th that led to the president being permanently suspended. And then the whole whistleblowing to Congress thing usually comes next.

Thankfully, thats not what Im here to talk about today.

Instead, I want to talk about something Ive never spoken publicly about before: How I felt on January 9, 2021. The only way Ive ever been able to describe the feeling is bar exam brain. Maybe you know it. Its that feeling of drain after having taken everything youve ever read and learned and rapidly applying the logic and lessons to a fast moving set of facts. And then writing it all down as fast as you can.

After doing just that at Twitter from January 6-8 2021, my brain literally hurt in a way Id only ever experienced the day after I took the New York bar exam.

But that feeling also told me something important: in the moments when it counted the most, and everything was on the line, my training that began at UF in a media law class prepared me.

In the years since those fateful days, that training remained my foundation as I continued my work in the field called Trust & Safety as a senior policy official at Twitch and by conducting first of its kind research as a fellow at Stanford University. And now as a Senior Fellow at the Tow Center for Digital Journalism at Columbia University, I continue to write about the field and share my opinions for how it can improve.

Now, you may have noticed that I havent tried to give you my definition for the term Trust & Safety today. Thats intentional. Because, I hope that my narration of my career journey has shown that Trust & Safety is just the latest phrase in a long line of terms that simply describes the traditional accountability work of law and journalism.

This is the work that we have all dedicated our practices to. And the work that we are here to discuss.

Joining us for this discussion is my niece. Earlier this week, she told me that she and her elementary school classmates have debates at lunch about whether AI is going to take over the world. So, believe it or not, Trust & Safety in our increasingly AI Dominated world is also a pretty popular topic among 11 year olds.

Its clear to me, and to the elementary kids, that we are once again in another one of those moments where new technologies are changing our world. But like I told my niece, I also want to remind us all: it is the job of humans to write the rules that will decide what AI is allowed to do.

Currently, the Trust & Safety format for accountability and self-regulation has been carbon copied from the departments of the social media companies I worked in and placed into the new companies developing large language models, other forms of generative AI, and the next iterations of web technologies.

But the same people doing the exact same things will not produce different results. And we cannot afford to simply repeat the same mistakes from technologys past.

So how do we begin to create a better future? I really believe that it starts with the people whose brains are dedicated to technology, media law, and journalism. And I have four recommendations for where we can begin.

In the future of Trust & Safety and AI, I first hope that we create more training to prepare future practitioners to join the frontline work. We no longer live in an era where only three schools recognize this work. I believe our disciplines should provide a paved pathway into the technology industry for others, like it did for me. Its hard to imagine, but when I worked in Trust & Safety, I never worked with anyone else who came from my fields of study. Yet, as my story shows, my training perfectly positioned me to participate in some of the most historic moments in media law history. And, I can say from experience that it would probably have been less stressful to workshop a World War III scenario in a classroom than to have had to figure it out on the fly, in real time, in real life. We owe it to ourselves to teach and train the next generation of practitioners.

Second, the reign of social media companies and my journey also shows us that even when it was at its best and most resourced, the purely self-regulatory model of internal Trust & Safety does not work. Technology companies have already shown that they have far too much power and that they are not responsible with how they wield it. Now, with the existential threat of AI that worries even pre-teens, we need a full court press from every sector to come together and create comprehensive and practical external regulatory structures for AI and emerging technology. This will require people from industry, academia, civil society, government, and every sector to work together and share knowledge.

That sharing of knowledge is really key. Third, I also believe that researchers, academics, and journalists working on AI, technology, and Trust & Safety need to talk to the humans who have done, and are doing the work inside of companies. When I did my own research, I realized that many Trust & Safety workers were sharing experiences with me that they said they had never spoken about before to anyone. When I asked why, one of them told me, no one has ever asked. Asking these questions about how the past unfolded is the only way to provide nuanced solutions for a better future.

Lastly, I encourage former Trust & Safety workers to join those of us who have left the industry and are creating our own lane as external watchdogs and advocates for change. I have been thrilled to see so many of my former colleagues writing and publishing terrific articles and essays that have provided new depth to conversations about technology accountability and regulation. But we need help from academia, civil society, and philanthropy in making this alternative pathway a viable career.

But none of these recommendations is without risk. And I must acknowledge them. If the past is prologue, we can anticipate a backlash.

While it may be expanding to new technologies, the reality is also that the work of holding power to account through Trust & Safety is under attack. Technology leaders like Elon Musk have publicly harassed and mocked Trust & Safety employees. Musk also led the way in eliminating Trust & Safety roles within social media by firing workers, and instituting massive content moderation changes. Companies like Twitch and YouTube have followed suit. And Tech investors like Marc Andreessen have written manifestos that labeled Trust & Safety the enemy.

This language and strategy mirrors the attacks that are also currently directed toward academics, journalists, poll workers, judges, and others who do the vital work of accountability that undergirds democracy. And it has been discouraging to watch.

But, I can honestly say that for the first time in a while, I am not without hope.

As Ive alluded to, this trip has been a full circle moment for me in many ways. Returning to UF has made me think of the past version of myself that walked onto this campus nearly 20 years ago. And Ive wondered what she would think if she was here today. I know she wouldnt have understood most of the words we are discussing, and she probably would have seen LLM and assumed that we were talking about tax law.

And as I wrote this talk about all of these words, I also thought about my niece. She is the literal embodiment of the next generation that I dreamed of when I first came to this campus. The world she is living in, and will go to college in, is exceedingly different from the one I encountered.

But my journey has taught me that the work remains the same even though the terms, technologies, and times change.

So my hope for myself, my niece, and for us all as I leave this campus again is still the same. May the continued work of law and journalism provide the foundation to make our world a different and hopefully better place.

Q & A:

Jasmine: What is the cost of failing to implement adequate policy for social media sites with the emergence of LLMs and other generative AI?

Anika: The failure to implement adequate policy for social media sites both internally and with external regulation has already led to deadly results, like January 6th. And that happened before the emergence of LLMs. Now, I fear that the convergence of unregulated social media and prevalence of Generative AI could lead to a November surprise in this years elections.

Jasmine: You offered four recommendations for creating a better future at the intersection of law, journalism, and technology, one of these focuses on training for future practitioners. What might this training look like and how should administrators consider implementing such training?

Anika: This is something I am actually trying to build and envision. Id love to develop a class that uses a mix of theory and practice to recreate a much lower stakes environment of a T&S team inside of a technology company. I think that its important to get both a solid foundation on the literature in the field as well as apply it by workshopping through previous real-world examples. Theory breaks down quickly in practice, and I think its also vital for the next generation of practitioners to spend time wrestling with how to fill those gaps. Its something that I wish I would have had. Id love to come together with administrators and other former practitioners to create this.

Jasmine: What is the value of having training in journalism for students and others who might want to go into tech?

Anika: One of the most useful skills that Ive ever exercised during my career is the ability to write on deadline. This, of course, gets drilled into you with journalism training. But being able to write well, and write quickly makes all the difference and sets you apart at work. In the world of tech policy, filling a blank document with facts and logical arguments within a certain amount of time is the daily job.

Journalism training is also the only place where students are required to take a media law class and grapple with the legal and ethical considerations that govern technology. That foundation in free expression philosophies and understanding of the basics of the First Amendment are exceedingly helpful, and I think necessary, when your job is to govern speech.

Jasmine: Why is there such a disconnect between researchers, journalists, and the whistleblowers and other trust and safety workers in tech? Why are issues in the T&S space so slow to be studied?

Anika: As I mentioned, when I did my own research with T&S workers I quickly found that people were telling me stories that they said theyd never shared with anyone. I think its really important for researchers and journalists to start asking T&S workers, especially whistleblowers, about their experiences. Im convinced that the only way we are going to effectively regulate the tech industry or fully understand how it works is by talking to the people who have done the work inside of the companies.

Historically, T&S workers have been hesitant to talk about their work for very good reasons, including threats, abuse, harassment and retaliation. Ive found that recently, given the current state of the world and the importance of the work, people from within T&S, or who have recently left T&S, have become more willing to take the risk of speaking up.

Jasmine: What might an external watchdog look like for T&S for tech?

Anika: I argue that Congress should create a new independent body to regulate technology companies. I think the airline industry is a great example of where we can begin. In that field, the National Transportation and Safety Board sets basic safety thresholds that companies have to abide by. And when something goes horribly wrong, they have the authority to go investigate and collect the black box to determine what happened. I think society would greatly benefit if the technology industry had a regulatory system like that.
North Carolinians can no longer stack underinsured motorist policies to compare to liability limits in order to boost the amount of coverage in an accident, the state Supreme Court said last week in a decision that overturns 30 years of appeals court rulings.

Theres no doubt this is a significant ruling, said William Lipscomb, attorney for North Carolina Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co., which prevailed in the case. It drastically changes things back to the way the legislature drew it up.

The states UIM law is clear, the high court said in the decision. The only UIM limits that may be considered at the activation stage are those for the vehicle involved in the accident and insured under the owners policy,' the court said in overturning a 2022 appeals court decision in the case.

North Carolina law notes that a claimants underinsured coverage must be activated for his or her claim to proceed. And insureds must show that the at-fault vehicles liability limits are less than the claimants UIM coverage.

The appellate court had erred when it permitted motorist Matthew Bryan Hebert to stack and compare at the activation stage, adding his parents UIM policy to his own. The appeals court should not have allowed him to aggregate inter-policy all of the UIM policies available to defendant, regardless of their connection to the car involved in the accident, before comparing his UIM limits to the at-fault vehicles liability limits, the high court justices said.

The trial court in Wake County must now enter a judgment in favor of Farm Bureau, declaring that Hebert was not due the extra coverage, effectively ending the litigation, the Supreme Court said.

The case was complicated somewhat by the fact that Hebert was a passenger in his own car when the collision occurred. His 2004 Chevrolet Malibu was both the at-fault vehicle and the vehicle through which Hebert, as an injured party, sought UIM recovery.

Thats not an unusual situation, Lipscomb said.

When there are injured passengers in a single-vehicle accident, its pretty common, he said.

Hebert also had acknowledged in the litigation that his parents policy covered only him, not his car, a key distinction in the statute.

In 2020, Hebert was riding with two other people in his Malibu. Sincere Terrell Corbett was driving. The car collided with a car owned by William Coats, the court explained. Corbett and a passenger in Heberts car, Jamar Hicks, were killed. Hebert and another passenger, Chase Hawley, along with Coats, the other driver, were seriously injured.

All agreed that Corbett was at fault. Farm Bureau paid the $100,000 per-accident limit under Heberts liability policy and the four claimants and their estates agreed to divide the payout. Some $49,500 went to Hicks estate; $49,500 to Hawley; $900 to Coats; and $100 to Hebert.

Farm Bureau also paid $99,900 in UIM coverage under Heberts parents policy. Several months later, Farm Bureau asked the Wake County judge to declare that Heberts additional claim of UIM coverage under his own policy was not available: Heberts liability policy limits were equal to its UIM coverage, thus barring any further underinsured recovery, the insurer argued.

The Wake County trial judge disagreed, and the North Carolina Court of Appeals upheld the trial judge. A dissent by one appellate judge, however, sided with Farm Bureau on this particular type of claim, despite decades of stacking practice in the state.

The Supreme Courts opinion agreed with that dissent. The justices pointed out that for some 30 years, courts have allowed stacking of policies to help protect victims of auto accidents. But the opinion, written by Chief Justice Paul Newby, said the Court of Appeals had been misinterpreting the N.C. Motor Vehicle Safety and Financial Responsibility Act of 1953.

In the appellate courts view, the limits referred to in the statute were all of the UIM limits available to the claimant, Newby explained.

This interpretation, however, ignores the remainder of subdivision 20-279.21(b)(4)s first paragraph. In the sentences immediately surrounding subdivision 20-279.21(b)(4)s definitions of underinsured highway vehicle, limits appears thirteen times. In each of those instances, the statute refers to the per-person and per-accident limits under a singular policy, not limits from multiple policies.

The statute appears to allow inter-policy stacking, but only in the later, calculation stage of a claim, not at the initial activation stage, the justices wrote. Also, the statutory language on the activation is concerned with the claimants UIM policies for the vehicle, not all UIM policies for which the insured is eligible.

In other words, if an insureds UIM policy is not for the vehicle involved in the accident and insured under the owners policy, it is outside the scope of consideration when determining whether the at-fault vehicle is an underinsured highway vehicle, the Supreme Court noted.

Thus, the sum of Heberts liability policy limits is not less than the UIM limits and the Malibu does not meet the definition of an underinsured vehicle.

The case was watched by the plaintiff and defense bars. In an amicus brief, the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, a trial attorney association, said that Farm Bureaus argument was another example of an insurer seeking to undermine UIM coverage that has been in place for years.

By allowing the $100 to Hebert from his liability policy, Farm Bureau negated an additional $50,000 in additional UIM coverage, a policy Hebert had paid premiums on. That shortchanges the insured, attorneys Jon Ward, Paul Coates and Douglas Maynard Jr. wrote in the brief. The statute is clear and has not been misinterpreted by appeals courts, they said.

If the fundamental structure of UIM benefits is to shift in North Carolina, that change should come from the legislature, the brief noted.

In January, change is coming from the legislature. Under a 2023 law that takes effect in 2025, insurers and insureds must compare the amount of liability coverage to the damages suffered by victims of an accident, instead of comparing liability coverage to underinsured coverage for vehicles.

It will be a dramatically different equation, said Lipscomb, the Farm Bureau attorney, who is retiring from practice this week.

Related: South Carolina High Court in 2022 Said Stacking Allowed
As skiers glide down the slopes of British Columbias Whistler Mountain and ice fishers drop their lines into frozen lakes in Alberta, dozens of the fires whose smoke darkened North Americas skies last year are still burning  with some smoldering beneath layers of snow.

These so-called zombie fires are a sign of a grim new normal thats wreaking havoc even in far northern countries like Canada: a fire season that almost never ends.

The western province of BC had 90 zombie blazes still burning as of mid-March, holdovers from last years record fire season, while neighboring Alberta started the year with 64 fires carried over from 2023  more than 10 times the five-year average. As spring temperatures melt snow and uncover land parched by drought, those fires and new ones are poised to flare up, posing a fresh threat to Canadas forests, not to mention the worlds atmosphere.

We really dont get out of wildfire season like we have historically, said Rob de Pruis, director of consumer and industry relations at the Insurance Bureau of Canada. Theyre a real and present danger, and wildfires are happening right now.

The worst fire season on record in Canada made global headlines last year when smoke from the blazes blotted out the skies above New York and other US cities, spawned a rare pyro-tornado and forced the evacuations of an estimated 232,000 people. The fires burned an area that was more than seven times the historic average  or about 4% of the countrys forests, according to a new study.

The Statue of Liberty was shrouded in smoke from Canadian wildfires last June. Photographer: Victor J. Blue/Bloomberg

This year, with 71% of Canada abnormally dry or in drought in February and swathes of the country as much as 5C (9F) warmer than normal, governments and companies are bracing for a repeat. Alberta declared a start to its wildfire season on Feb. 20  the earliest in recent years  and a spokesman for Quebecs forest-protection agency said the provinces season is poised to start as much as four weeks earlier than usual.



The flames caused more than C$1 billion ($740 million) in insured damages, according to the insurance bureau. They also may have released emissions that are more than twice the annual carbon output of the nations economy, a top government scientist has estimated.

Nationally, the federal government has invested C$170 million in a satellite mission to monitor fires, while the armed forces are training more soldiers as support firefighters.

Canadas Record Wildfire Season Set to Worsen as Heat Builds

British Columbias provincial government created a permanent Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness in 2022  the year after the town of Lytton burned to the ground in a record-breaking heatwave  to deal with the onslaught of fires and floods. That replaces the previous approach, where resources were mobilized temporarily in response to events. I exist in a state of anxiety on behalf of the province, the departments minister, Bowinn Ma, said in a phone interview. It has become apparent that that kind of response-focused model just wasnt sufficient.

The province is upgrading firefighting equipment, working to get more access to aircraft, testing night-vision technology to extend fire suppression into the hours of darkness and looking at how to use artificial intelligence to predict fires.

The provinces wildfire service also is shifting to operating year-round  rather than seasonally  and has increased its full-time staff more than 50% since 2022. British Columbia plans to almost triple the number of prescribed and cultural forest burns to pre-empt and curb wildfires this year: 61 are planned.

Smoke From Canadian Wildfires Blankets US Cities

A pedestrian wears a face mask as smoke from Canadian wildfires blankets Philadelphia last June. Photographer: Hannah Beier/Bloomberg

The changing weather patterns are affecting how businesses operate, too. Telecom company Telus Corp. has ramped up clearing brush around its million-dollar cell towers in areas at risk of fires, so communities dont get cut off, said Phil Moore, vice president of real estate and business continuity.

The wireless provider has invested more than C$100 million in protecting infrastructure over the last five years, he said, and its helping fund a German startup called Dryad Networks GmbH, which uses sensors to detect wildfires earlier.

Perhaps no industry has been more affected by fires in the past decade than Canadas oil and gas sector, which was forced to shut down more than 1 million barrels of daily output during a devastating blaze in 2016. The fire razed sections of Fort McMurray  the largest city near most producers oil-sands operations  and caused about C$3.7 billion in insured losses, making it Canadas costliest natural disaster.

During last years fire season, energy producers including Chevron Corp., Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. and Baytex Energy Corp. at times shut production equivalent to about 300,000 barrels of oil a day as blazes encroached on wells and processing infrastructure.

The drought conditions that are spawning the fires can also hurt producers by cutting off the water they need for operating oil-sands mines and wells.

The Alberta Energy Regulator in December warned energy companies to plan accordingly when applying for licenses to divert water from rivers and to prepare contingency plans. Average monthly precipitation from October to the end of February was the lowest in at least 10 years in five of Albertas production areas, including near Lac La Biche, Fort McMurray, Slave Lake, Peace River and Grande Prairie.

Winter Precipitation Is Lowest in a Decade | Snow and rainfall drops in townships near five oil and gas producing areas of Alberta

The issue is front of mind for investors. Analysts asking executives from Suncor Energy Inc., Imperial Oil Ltd. and Canadian Natural about their preparations for the drought conditions on their recent earnings calls. Were going to continue to have to manage that carefully, Imperial Chief Executive Officer Brad Corson said last month of the risks to water supply.

Theres one consolation: 2023s fires scorched such large swathes of forest that in some places, smaller fires wont be able to merge with each other to create massive contiguous blazes, said Thomas Smith, an associate professor of environmental geography at the London School of Economics.

The connectivity is certainly going to slow down and stop the spread of some of these fires, Smith said. But I dont expect it it to be a very quiet fire year.

Top photo: A member of the BC Wildfire Service Fraser Unit Crew uses a drip torch to set a planned ignition as part of wildfire-fighting efforts British Columbia last July. Photographer: Jesse Winters/Bloomberg.

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul met with the ambassadors to Australia and five other countries for discussions on defense cooperation ahead of an upcoming ambassadors' conference set for later this week, his office said Wednesday.

Cho separately met with the ambassadors  Lee Jong-sup to Australia, Lim Hoon-min to Poland, Yoo Jeh-seung to the United Arab Emirates, and Lee Sang-deok to Indonesia  between last Friday and Tuesday, the foreign ministry said.

Cho also met with Ambassadors Choi Byung-hyuk to Saudi Arabia and Lee Joon-ho to Qatar on Wednesday.

The ministry said Cho was briefed by each ambassador on various ongoing defense projects and partnerships with the six countries and discussed ways to deepen the cooperation in these areas.

The ministry's disclosure of Cho's meetings with the ambassadors is considered unusual since it normally does not make public every meeting the foreign minister has with an ambassador, nor does it provide accounts of such meetings in detail.

In a separate release, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, the arms procurement agency, said its chief, Seok Jong-gun, had individual meetings with Lee and the other ambassadors as well.

The meetings came amid speculation that the ambassadors' conference, slated for Thursday, was organized to give Lee a pretext to come back home as criticism grew over his appointment and departure after revelations that he was being investigated for alleged interference in a military probe into a Marine's death.

Lee returned home Thursday, 11 days after he assumed the job in Canberra.

The foreign ministry said he came to attend the defense meeting involving the chiefs of the missions in the six countries. But questions arose as there has been no precedent for such a meeting.

Some have speculated that the presidential office ordered Lee to return in haste as public sentiment is worsening in the run-up to the parliamentary elections set for April 10. (Yonhap)
RICHFIELD, Ohio  A 21-year-old Fairlawn man was killed in a motorcycle crash late Friday night, authorities say.

Jonathan Mostoller was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on Interstate 77 in Richfield, according to the Summit County Medical Examiners Office.

Few details have been released on the crash, which occurred at about 11:25 p.m. Mostoller was riding a 2023 Kawasaki motorcycle.

The medical examiners office and the Richfield Police Department are investigating.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Attorneys in a wrongful death lawsuit against Catholic Charities obtained new evidence on the third day of jury selection: thousands of hours of recorded phone calls made from prison.

Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court Judge Brian Mooney granted a request from Catholic Charities lawyers on Wednesday morning to let them review recordings of phone calls that Larissa Rodriguez made after she was sentenced to 25 years in prison for the death of her son, 5-year-old Jordan Rodriguez.

Mooney was taken aback to learn minutes later that the digital file the prison system had handed over contained more than 4,200 phone calls with an average length of 30 minutes each.

Attorneys for the boys estate, who objected to the agencys motion to bring the calls into the case as evidence, then asked Mooney to allow them to further argue that the prison calls should be barred this late in the process.

Mooney rejected their request and resumed jury selection, but he said they may return to the issue later in the day.

The development could potentially pose another snag in a trial that has already taken years to start.

The suit stems from the December 2017 discovery of Jordans badly decomposed body buried in a shallow grave in his mothers backyard. Larissa Rodriguez and her boyfriend, Christopher Rodriguez, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. They were each sentenced to more than two decades in prison in 2018.

The boys estate, which is represented by his aunt, sued the organization in 2019, accusing it of failing to properly train and oversee Nancy Caraballo, a case worker assigned to Rodriguezs family.

Rather than conduct home visits, Caraballo took Larissa Rodriguezs EBT card and used it to buy groceries for herself. She then filed reports with Catholic Charities falsely claiming that she had inspected the home.

The 5-year-old boys body weighed 15 pounds when it was discovered, but the medical examiners office was unable to determine an exact cause of death.

After a first trial was derailed in August by the appearance of a conflict of interest with Mooneys staff attorney, the case went to trial again on Monday.

The recorded calls came into factor after Catholic Charities, represented by Richard Blake and Thomas Mannion, asked Mooney on Wednesday to rule on a motion that they filed in July. They requested that he reverse a ruling that Judge Joan Synenberg had made in 2020 that barred them from reviewing the jail calls.

The prison system had already provided a link to a digital storage application with copies of the jail calls, but attorneys for Catholic Charities wanted a court order from Mooney granting them permission to review the calls before they opened the file.

Jay Deratany, an attorney for the estate, objected to the time of the request. He said that they could have asked Mooney to rule weeks or even months ago. Deratany also said the defense would need to take depositions of people involved in the calls.

Mooney reasoned that, since Deratany and co-counsel Russell Randazzo recently argued that Larissa Rodriguez is not eligible to be a member of Jordans estate because she caused his death, there was no potential attorney-client privilege issue with the calls.

He said he was only granting permission for Catholic Charities attorneys to listen to the calls to possibly find statements to use to challenge her credibility, and if they do want to use any at trial, he would hear objections to each specific phone call.

It wasnt until after Mooney adjourned the hearing to begin jury selection that attorneys for the boys estate opened the file and learned of the volume of the calls.

The development came after Mooney granted a request from Catholic Charities to install a gag order preventing attorneys and parties in the case from speaking to reporters.

Lawyers for the organization accused Deratany of trying to influence the potential juror pool in an interview he gave to WOIO Cleveland 19 News that aired Monday evening. The story quoted Deratany saying that he hoped the case would send a signal that Catholic Charities needs to clean up their act and they need to hopefully restructure things so that other children dont get hurt.

The organization, in a separate motion, asked Mooney to go further and bar any video recording or media broadcasting of the trail. Mooney denied that motion on Wednesday.
CLEVELAND, Ohio --Cleveland Burlesque is celebrating its 20th anniversary this weekend with Nouveau Decadence, a burlesque revue of the past two decades years. The show starts at 8:30 p.m., March 30, at Beachland Ballroom and Tavern. Tickets are still available.

Attendees will experience an evening of seductive routines as women and men demonstrate the art of the tease. Saturdays show will include two special guests and an opera performance.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  A diverse class of writers  children of immigrants, a writer-photographer who has traveled the world extensively and a Native American who crafted a thoughtful, stark collection of poems  have won the 2024 Anisfield-Wolf Book Awards.

The 89th annual awards will be announced Friday, Sept. 27, at the Maltz Performing Arts Center at Case Western Reserve University.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  The Cleveland Clinic is high among U.S. nonprofit hospitals not doing enough to directly benefit their communities, and University Hospitals ranks second in Ohio behind the Clinic, according to the Lown Hospitals Index 2024 Community Benefit ranking.

The Clinics main campus ranked fourth on the Lown Institutes list of 10 U.S. hospitals doing the worst in community spending. These hospitals receive more in tax breaks than they give back to the community  called a fair share deficit  according to the report released Tuesday.

The study was conducted by the Boston-based Lown Institute, an independent healthcare think tank.

The Clinics main campus had a fair share deficit of $212 million, the report said.

University Hospitals Medical Centers fair share deficit was $60.9 million, ranking second among Ohio hospitals on the list.

Federal, state, and local laws exempt nonprofit hospitals from paying a variety of taxes under the assumption they will give back to their communities through patient financial assistance, primary care clinics, substance abuse treatment and other programs, Lown siad.

The Clinic disputed the conclusions.

The Lown Institution does not fairly tally the total community benefit that the Clinic provides to its communities, said Chief Financial Officer Dennis Laraway.

Youre referencing an agency that is taking information and providing a report that is not in conformance with IRS (community benefit) guidelines, Laraway said. So there is really no correlation to the community benefit strategies that we embrace here at Cleveland Clinic.

In 2022, the entire Clinic system spent $1.4 billion in community benefits for the cost of charity care, unpaid Medicaid services, community programs and research, Laraway said.

UH said it continues to try to do more for the community.

We are proud of the $531 million we invested in the community in 2022 and the nearly $5 billion invested in our community since 2008, UH said in an emailed statement. However, we strive to do more, which is why we made investing in our community a key aspect of our strategic plan to make a more meaningful impact where needs are greatest.

The U.S. hospital with the largest fair share deficit was New York-Presbyterian Hospital (New York, N.Y.) with a $274 million deficit, followed by UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, ($268 million deficit), and NYU Langone Hospitals ($222 million deficit).

Looking at U.S. states, Ohios combined hospitals had one of the highest fair share deficits in the country at $1.6 billion, the report said. Among the few states with higher fair share deficits were California ($3.5 billion) and Pennsylvania ($2.1 billion).

The institute examined about 2,425 nonprofit hospitals, and listed them according to fair share deficits. The combined fair share deficits of these hospitals totaled $25.7 billion for 2021, the report said.

When four out of five nonprofit hospitals do not meet obligations to benefit their community, its a sign that regulations and incentives need to be revisited, Dr. Vikas Saini, Lown Institute president, said in a statement. Everyone wants to see their local hospital thrive, but not at the expense of the communities they serve.

The Lown report also made recommendations for improving transparency and accountability in community spending, such as requiring more detailed reporting, and implementing financial penalties for noncompliance.

Federal regulation of community benefit spending is woefully ineffective and in need of reform, Saini said. Though hospitals are required to report their community contributions to the IRS, there is no minimum spend, there are many loopholes, and enforcement is practically nonexistent.

Out of 2,425 nonprofit hospitals evaluated, 80% had a fair share deficit. No Ohio hospitals were on the list of hospitals with the largest fair share surpluses in the country. And there were only five states in which a majority of hospitals had a fair share surplus: Delaware, Montana, Maryland, Texas and Utah.

Hospitals regionally

Ashtabula County Medical Center, a Clinic affiliate, was the only Northeast Ohio hospital with a fair share surplus, at $1.5 million.

Our communities depend on Ashtabula County Medical Center for quality healthcare when they need it, said President and CEO Leonard Stepp, Jr. The Lown Institute ranking shows that our communities can also depend on ACMC to do all we can to improve the overall quality of life in Ashtabula County.

Hospitals in the Clinic and UH systems took up most of the slots on a list of the top 10 Northeast Ohio hospitals with fair share deficits, the Lown report said.

1. Cleveland Clinic Main Campus: $211.8 million

2. University Hospitals Medical Center: $60.9 million

3. Cleveland Clinic Akron General: $29.2 million

4. Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital: $20.2 million

5. Southwest General Hospital: $19.8 million

6. Cleveland Clinic Hillcrest Hospital: $18.9 million

7. Bon Secours Mercy Health Lorain Hospital: $16.5 million

8. UH Tri-Point Medical Center: $15.3 million

9. UH Ahuja Medical Center: $8.5 million

10. UH Parma Medical Center: $7.4 million

The Lown report highlights the growing needs of the community, UH said. We at UH work with the community to identify and address its healthcare needs through research, charitable care, education, training, community outreach and subsidizing healthcare.

UH noted that it accepts payment rates from Medicaid that do not cover the cost of providing care. In 2022, the hospital systems Medicaid underpayments were $285 million.

The calculations

The Lown Institute calculated Fair Share Spending by comparing each hospitals spending on financial assistance and community investment to the estimated value of its tax exemption.

Hospitals that dedicated at least 5.9% of overall expenditures to meaningful community investment were considered to have spent their fair share, the report said.

Community investment included free or discounted care provided to eligible patients, community health improvement services, subsidized health services, grants to community groups, and community activities addressing the social drivers of health, such as affordable housing.

Some types of community spending are important, but do not have a direct and meaningful impact on communities, the Lown institute said. These include Medicaid shortfall, physician education and research.

Those categories are also susceptible to double- or triple-dipping, meaning hospitals may choose to claim those expenses in multiple circumstances, the report said. For these reasons, we exclude the categories of research, training, and Medicaid shortfall.

Medicaid shortfall was not included in the Lown reports calculations because hospitals are already reimbursed for Medicaid patients by the state, Lown said.

Hospital spending on health professions education and research were not included because these investments do not have a direct impact on community health needs, Lown said. Hospitals are already reimbursed for costs associated with training caregivers.

While research funding is a public good, it is unlikely that a hospitals self-funded research has a direct impact on the health of the surrounding community, the report said.

The Clinic disagreed with Lowns definition of community benefit.

The cost of training more than 1,400 medical students annually does make a positive impact on communities, Laraway said.

Where are we going to get our future caregivers, if not for organizations like the Cleveland Clinic, Laraway said.

And the Clinic would not be able to provide the most complex levels of care  such as organ transplantation, neurosurgery, surgical oncology and cancer therapies  without medical research, Laraway said.

The American Hospital Association agrees that the Lown report cherry-picks data to paint a negative picture of the hospital industry.

The most recent full year of data show that tax-exempt hospitals provided $129 billion in total benefits to their communities in 2020 alone, according to a recent article by American Hospital Association CEO Rick Pollack.

Despite all the available evidence showing hospitals devotion to their communities, the latest iteration of the Lown Institutes so-called Fair Share report on hospital community benefits suffers from the same biases, flaws and shortcomings as its previous reports, Pollack wrote.

Julie Washington covers healthcare for cleveland.com. Read previous stories at this link.
BATTLE CREEK, Michigan  An argument over where to place eggs for an Easter egg hunt at an elementary school ended with a man stabbing a family member, according to law-enforcement officials.

A news release from the Calhoun County Sheriffs Office says deputies were called to Valley View Elementary School at about 9:15 a.m. They say a 36-year-old Battle Creek man and his female partner were preparing for an Easter egg hunt to be held later in the day when they began arguing about the placement of eggs.

A family member tried to intervene in the fight, but the suspect pulled out a knife and cut the family member multiple times, the sheriffs office says.

Deputies responding to the incident were able to convince the suspect to drop the knife and he was taken into custody. The victim was treated at the scene for minor lacerations.

No children had arrived for the event when the stabbing occurred. The suspect, whose name was not released, has been charged with aggravated assault.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  A politically connected local labor leader served as the foreperson for a grand jury that returned a new criminal indictment Monday against ex-Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder, a development experts said raises questions about the impartiality of the process and that could pose future legal issues for Attorney General Dave Yosts case.

Dave Wondolowski, the executive president of the Cleveland Building Trades and Construction Council, signed the indictment, filed Monday in Cuyahoga County, a copy of the indictment shows. He did so in his role as foreperson of the grand jury, a secret citizen panel that reviewed prosecutors case before it was filed publicly to see if it should result in criminal charges. Under state judicial rules, a jury forepersons role includes swearing in witnesses, tabulating the vote from grand jurors about whether a case should advance, announcing the results and signing indictments.

Wondolowski declined to comment on his role on the grand jury, saying prosecutors told him not to speak publicly about the case. Spokespeople for Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael OMalley, who signed the indictment, and Yost, whose office investigated the case and brought the charges, also declined to comment. Grand jury proceedings, which are part of the process of bringing any felony case, are veiled in a thick layer of secrecy under state law.

But legal experts interviewed Tuesday said Wondolowskis role on the grand jury could raise problems because of his familiarity with Householder. Wondolowski is active in state politics in general and, in particular, was involved with issues surrounding House Bill 6, the 2019 nuclear bailout legislation thats at the center of federal corruption charges against Householder and that spawned the new state case.

Wondolowski lobbied publicly for HB6, which was supported by most elements of organized labor in the state. The Cleveland Building Trades and Construction Council gives to Republican and Democratic candidates around the state, and gave at least $14,000 in campaign contributions to Householder, who served as speaker from 2019 until his resignation in 2020, state campaign finance records show.

In early 2022, Wondolowski also briefly served on the nominating council for the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, where he was appointed by Gov. Mike DeWine to help screen potential PUCO commissioners. The PUCO is part of a related case brought by Yosts office in Summit County against Sam Randazzo, who served as PUCO chairman from 2019 until late 2020, and two former FirstEnergy executives accused of bribing him.

Mike Benza, a law professor at Case Western Reserve University, said Householders defense lawyers are likely to ask about Wondolowskis role on the grand jury to see whether he played a part in reviewing the case.

Depending on the facts, and I want to make that big qualifier, because there are a lot of facts that could make this a big bunch of nothing. But if there is something here, it does seem to be an unforced error on the part of the government, said Mike Benza, a law professor at Case Western Reserve University.

David Axelrod, a former federal prosecutor who works as a white-collar criminal defense lawyer in Columbus, said grand jury forepeople are supposed to meet the statutory qualifications to be a juror, including being unbiased.

The improper appointment of someone unqualified could create terrible optics, as well as become a distraction because the defendant could move to dismiss the indictment on that ground, Axelrod said.

Messages have been left with lawyers who have represented Householder in federal court. Scott Pullins, another lawyer who has represented Householder in state elections cases, some of which overlap with the new criminal charges, said he was surprised to see Wondolowskis name appear on the new indictment in Cuyahoga County.

The new case is the second state prosecution brought recently by Yosts office that piggybacks on the federal HB6 investigation, which last year with a federal jury convicting him of racketeering.

Trial evidence showed that FirstEnergy Corp. contributed about $60 million to a political nonprofit that Householder effectively controlled and helped him become House speaker. About $514,000 of the money, however, paid down Householders legal debts, credit card debts, and home repair bills. In exchange for the money, he championed the passage of House Bill 6, bailout legislation worth more than $1 billion to FirstEnergy.

Householder is serving a 20-year prison sentence in Columbiana County. He has appealed his conviction, saying there was no quid pro quo agreement and that his behavior was legal under federal campaign finance law. Yost has said hes bringing the case in part to ensure that Householder is held accountable if his appeal is successful.

The new state case, brought by Yost, accuses Householder of illegally using campaign funds to pay for his criminal defense during his federal trial, and lying on ethics disclosure forms that state lawmakers are required to file regularly. Some of the information about the allegedly improper disclosures came from testimony Householder gave during his federal criminal trial.

The state charges include one count of theft in office, two counts of aggravated theft, one count of telecommunications fraud, one count of money laundering and five counts of tampering with records, according to Yosts office. All are felonies.

Like all felony cases, the charges were first reviewed by a Cuyahoga County grand jury. A grand jury consists of 12 randomly selected county voters  nine jurors plus three alternates who are tapped in if one of the main jurors is unavailable  plus a foreperson.

During grand jury proceedings, prosecutors call witness and present their potential case to the grand jurors. Seven of them must vote yes to find probable cause for the case to result in a felony indictment. There are no judges or defense lawyers present, and proceedings, including the vote results, are secret.

Benza, the CWRU law professor, said Cuyahoga County typically has three grand juries empaneled at a time. They can work a couple days a week or more reviewing potential cases. In Cuyahoga County, judges who take turn overseeing the grand jury selection process pick community leaders to serve as the foreperson, including in some instances, law professors, he said.

The idea a judge is looking for is somebody they think will be able to shepherd a grand jury through the decision making process. They might have leadership skills, some community credibility, things like that, Benza said.

Common Pleas Judge Richard A. Bell picked Wondolowski for the role, a court spokesman said.

But unlike juries during criminal trials, there isnt a formal process for prosecutors to screen jurors for potential biases or outside knowledge that could color their views, and defense lawyers arent part of a grand jury hearing. Benza said despite the high volume of cases that grand juries hear, its still up to prosecutors to know if their jurors have anything in their backgrounds that could affect their impartiality.

For example you would not want a family member of a homicide victim on a grand jury considering charges, Benza said. So its a little unusual to see someone so directly involved in the Larry Householder cases and the FirstEnergy issues also then serving on the grand jury.

Benza said its possible that Wondolowski abstained from voting on whether to bring charges against Householder or otherwise recused himself from reviewing the case. The indictment carries Wondolowskis signature, but its an electronic signature, which could mean he didnt personally sign it.

But Benza said thats something Householders lawyers may want to know as they eventually challenge the case. Pointing to Wondolowskis role as foreperson could be enough to convince a judge to lift the veil of secrecy that typically surrounds the grand jury process, he said.

Beyond the legal implications, Benza said theres also the potential for for questions about the impartiality of a grand jury process to affect public perception.

The justice system relies both on actual validity in its results, but also the appearance of validity, Benza said. So having a process that looks awkward or tainted is just as important to the system as having a system that functions properly in reality.

Andrew Tobias covers state politics and government for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer
A Navy sailor died after falling overboard while attending a maritime drill in the East Sea on Wednesday, the Navy said.

The Navy sergeant aboard a fast patrol boat fell into the water during a live-fire exercise in the East Sea in the afternoon, the Navy's 1st Fleet said.

He received first aid treatment and was sent to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead, the armed service said.

The Navy said it is looking into the cause of the accident.

He is known to have fallen into the water as his ankle was entangled in a rope in the process of towing a shooting target, according to sources.

The live-fire drills involving two fast patrol boats were held separately from the Navy's large-scale maritime drills held ahead of West Sea Defense Day on Friday, which commemorates fallen soldiers who died in action while defending the Northern Limit Line from 2002-2010, according to the Navy. (Yonhap)




Around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel on Wednesday morning, according to the Israeli military. Hezbollah took responsibility for the launches and said they were in response to an Israeli airstrike on a paramedic center linked to a Lebanese Sunni Muslim group in south Lebanon that killed seven of its members overnight.

Lebanons Hezbollah militant group began launching rockets toward Israel one day after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7. There has been near-daily violence, mostly confined to the area along the Lebanon-Israel border, and international mediators are scrambling to prevent an all-out war between Hezbollah and Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday that his government will not accept Hamas delusional conditions for a cease-fire in Gaza. The militant group rejected the latest truce proposal because it says Israel is ignoring the groups core demands: an end to the war and Israels full withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. Israel seeks to destroy Hamas and to recover all of the approximately 100 Israeli hostages still in Gaza, as well as the remains of some 30 others.

Some 1,200 people were killed in Israel and another 250 people abducted when militants launched a surprise attack out of Gaza on Oct. 7, triggering the war.

More than 32,000 people have been killed in Gaza and more than 74,000 wounded, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which doesnt differentiate between civilians and combatants in its tally. The ministry says women and children make up two-thirds of the dead.

Currently:

 Israel and Hamas dig in as pressure builds for a cease-fire in Gaza.

 With its soldiers mired in Gaza, Israel is also fighting over drafting the ultra-Orthodox.

 They fled kibbutzim after Hamas attacked. Now, many Israelis must decide whether to go back.

 Seven Lebanese and an Israeli are killed in an exchange of fire along the Lebanon-Israel border.
COLUMBUS, OhioMore than three decades after Ohio voters approved legislative term limits in the state, top Ohio House and Senate leaders say theyd like to loosen or eliminate them entirely.

Those sentiments, first raised to reporters by House Speaker Jason Stephens last December, then seconded by Senate President Matt Huffman last week, came mostly out of the blue, as theres been no serious attempt to ask voters to alter or repeal a 1992 state constitutional amendment limiting House and Senate members to eight consecutive years. Its very doubtful that the Ohio General Assembly will take any action on the issue before the current session ends in December.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Few details have been released since a South Euclid police officer shot a shoplifting suspect outside a Walmart Tuesday afternoon.

According to a preliminary incident report from South Euclid police, an officer was outside Walmart when he shot a 43-year-old man who had been stealing from the store located at 1868 Warrensville Center Rd. at about 2:54 p.m. Tuesday.

The man tried to flee from police in his vehicle. Police said the suspect tried to hit the officer with his car. The officer then shot at the suspect at least three times.

According to the incident report, the man continued driving, hitting several vehicles and stopping in front of a Burlington Coat Factory store next to Walmart in the Oakwood Commons shopping center.

A Burlington employee called 911 after the man exited the vehicle and sat on the bench in front of the store.

Theres a man outside claiming he had been shot, the caller told 911.

We have officers there, dispatch told the employee during the short phone call.

Police drove the suspect to a local hospital where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries, police said.

The officer who fired his weapon was checked by EMS on scene and was not injured. The officer has been placed on administrative leave until the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation completes an investigation into the shooting, police said.

Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer reached out to Ohio BCI for more information including officer-worn footage from the shooting.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge at the entrance to Baltimore harbor has disrupted ocean-going trade to one of the busiest ports on the East Coast, but as shippers reroute their freight its unlikely that much of it, if any, will pass through Cleveland.

Its possible that the Port of Cleveland could see a little more non-container cargo, such as steel, as there are already established routes for that commodity between the Great Lakes and Europe, said Will Friedman, president and chief executive officer of the Port of Cleveland.
An appellate court on Wednesday upheld life imprisonment for a psychopathic woman charged with killing a stranger out of curiosity and then dismembering and abandoning her body.

Jung Yoo-jung, 24, was indicted on charges of killing a female freelance tutor, with whom she had no personal connection, in May last year. She was caught after a taxi driver reported her to police upon finding her suspicious for throwing away a suitcase with blood stains in the riverside near her residence.

The Busan High Court upheld the lower court's life imprisonment sentence for Jung, saying the defendant had immersed herself in destructive behavior to relieve inner stress stemming from her bumpy childhood.

The court, however, dismissed the prosecutors' demand for a death penalty, saying it should be permitted only in exceptional circumstances for it deprives one of life.

"In light of the defendant's rugged childhood, it is difficult to hold her accountable for everything," the court said. "By permanently separating the defendant from society, we hope to prevent a second offense and make sure the defendant lives with remorse for life."

Jung is known to have submitted a letter of apology over 10 times during the first trial and 46 times during the second trial in a move to plead to the court for leniency. (Yonhap)
Rival parties are set to begin their official campaigning this week for the April 10 parliamentary elections, as the race heats up for the crucial votes seen as a barometer of the voters' assessment on the government of President Yoon Suk Yeol at its mid-term.

The election campaign will kick off at the beginning of Thursday for a 13-day run through the eve of the election. Up for grabs are 300 National Assembly seats  254 directly contested seats and 46 proportional representation slots.

The race has largely been about a showdown between the ruling People Power Party (PPP) seeking to add more seats and the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) aiming to retain its parliament majority.

On Wednesday, the two rival parties declared all-out efforts for the canvassing over the next two weeks.

Announcing an election pledge to push for a relocation of the National Assembly from Yeouido in western Seoul to the central city of Sejong, PPP leader Han Dong-hoon emphasized the need to reform the old "Yeouido politics" that has created deep public mistrust.

The proposal came with the ruling party's pledges to ease development restrictions for the western parts of Seoul to help transform the area into a financial and cultural landmark.

"April 10 will be the day that the Yeouido politics will end, the day that new politics will begin," Han said in a press conference at the party headquarters in Yeouido.

The PPP has vowed to fight the DPK-led liberal bloc that it accuses of taking advantage of the parliament majority to frustrate the legislative process needed for the Yoon government, and called for a new parliament that will focus on making the citizens' livelihoods better.

The DPK, on the other hand, is pitching for what it has labeled as the "judgment day" for the Yoon government that has ruined the people's livelihoods and failed in running the country.

"People say, 'We can't put up with this anymore. Let's make a judgment,'" DPK leader Lee Jae-myung said in an election campaign committee meeting in Chungju, about 100 kilometers south of Seoul.

The DPK has accused what it calls the "incompetent" Yoon administration of causing the economy and the livelihoods of people to worsen seriously and mishandling a string of issues, such as the controversial appointment of Ambassador to Australia Lee Jong-sup despite him being subject to an investigation.

Observers project that the DPK will also likely push ahead with bills to investigate corruption allegations involving first lady Kim Keon Hee if it gets to maintain the majority with the proportional seats won by its satellite party.

Predictions from both parties show that the PPP is "highly likely" to win 82 seats, with the DPK "highly likely" to win 110 seats, in a total of 254 constituencies.

How the minor parties will fare will also be one of the key takeaways from the elections in terms of moving the swing voters.

The Korea Innovation Party, led by disgraced former Justice Minister Cho Kuk, has drawn attention for what critics say amounts to Cho's personal vendetta against the Yoon government.

Other minor parties include the New Reform Party formed by former PPP leader Lee Jun-seok and the New Future Party (Saemirae) led by former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon.

Han of the PPP will kick off the campaign at the Garak Fish Market in Seoul's eastern district of Songpa. Lee, the DPK leader, will start off the campaign at the square in front of Yongsan Station. (Yonhap)
Critics label relocation plan as election gimmick

By Lee Hyo-jin

The ruling People Power Party's (PPP) abrupt proposal to relocate the National Assembly from Seoul to the adminstrative town of Sejong has been met with skepticism by observers, who view it as a move to salvage the party's falling approval ratings with an attention-grabbing yet hardly-feasible agenda.

PPP interim leader Han Dong-hoon announced on Wednesday a campaign pledge to relocate the Assembly to Sejong, emphasizing the city's status as an administrative hub with numerous ministries and public agencies. The move is positioned as a significant aspect of the party's platform for the upcoming April 10 general elections.

He said while Sejong can be transformed into a political and administrative capital similar to Washington, D.C., redevelopment plans for Yeouido, which is the current location of the Assembly and is also the capital's finance and investment banking hub, will be accelerated through eased regulations without the legislature, he added.

"We will fully relocate the National Assembly to Sejong, not partially, to make the city a political capital. The current parliamentary space will be repurposed into a hub for culture and finance, to be returned to the citizens," Han said during a press conference.

Hours after Hans announcement, the presidential office said President Yoon Suk Yeol had pledged to establish an Assembly branch in Sejong during his 2022 election campaign, indicating apparent support for the governing partys relocation plan.

"In a meeting with reporters in the Daejeon and Chungcheong regions in July 2021, the president articulated his belief that the legislative body and administrative organization should be situated in close proximity to each other to enhance the parliamentary system and reinforce the effectiveness of the administrative structure," the presidential office said in a statement.

It also announced plans to accelerate the establishment of a second presidential office in Sejong, aligning with one of Yoons campaign pledges.

The idea of moving the Assembly to Sejong is not new.

Following the passage of a revision bill to the National Assembly Act in December 2021, construction of a regional branch of the legislative body has kicked off in Sejong, aiming to accommodate several of the Assembly's standing committees by 2030 for more efficiency in collaboration between the Assembly and ministries there.

Political commentator Park Sang-byeong viewed the introduction of an accelerated version of this project by the PPP as an attempt to bolster the party's low approval ratings.

"The current election landscape is shifting unfavorably for the PPP, prompting the party to attempt to reverse the situation by introducing new agenda items to attract media attention," Park said.

Wednesday's press conference by Han was notified to reporters the night before with a vague agenda labeled as "general issues." The abrupt arrangement and announcement seemed to be aimed at generating heightened media attention.

While the pledge may garner attention from voters in the Chungcheong region surrounding Sejong or from residents of Yeouido, it is unlikely to be a decisive factor in the elections, Park noted.

"Given the bumpy and lengthy history of previous government efforts to relocate central government organizations to Sejong, the public is well aware that moving the Assembly would be no simple task either. Plus, announcing such a pledge with only two weeks left until the elections could be perceived as lacking sincerity," he said.

Choi Chang-ryul, a political commentator and professor at Yongin University, said that the party's attention-grabbing pledge could help quell the public's negative sentiment about the Yoon Suk Yeol administration.

"The PPP has undeniably sparked considerable buzz with this pledge, just days before the elections. This move could potentially overshadow the opposition parties' campaign message, which emphasizes the upcoming elections as an opportunity to deliver a harsh verdict on the Yoon administration's handling of state affairs," he said.

The ruling bloc has seen a decline in support in recent weeks.

According to a poll released on Monday, Yoon's job approval rating has kept falling from 41.9 percent at the end of February to 36.5 percent. The support rate for the PPP was 37.1 percent, down 0.8 percentage point. The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) saw its support rate rise 2 percentage points to 42.8 percent. Real Meter surveyed 1,004 adults during March 21-22 at the request of Energy Economy News Daily with a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points. Further details are available on the National Election Survey Deliberation Commissions website.

Sejong City issued a statement welcoming the relocation plan, expressing hope for active discussions at the Assembly.

"It is clear that the relocation of the National Assembly will serve as a catalyst for balanced development of the nation, as well as the achievement of Sejong City's long-standing pursuit of becoming the administrative capital," the statement read.

The DPK maintained a cautious stance. While it agreed with the relocation plan itself, as the project had been advocated by previous liberal governments, it criticized the ruling party for coming up with the seemingly populist pledge to woo voters.

"Considering that the presidential campaign pledge to construct a second presidential office in Sejong remains unfulfilled, the Assembly relocation plan appears to be another election tactic to gain votes from the Chungcheong region," the DPK's Sejong branch said in a statement.

Back in 2003, the Assembly passed a special law to establish a new administrative capital in Sejong, following then-President Roh Moo-hyuns campaign pledge for balanced development between the capital and non-capital areas. But in 2004, the Constitutional Court ruled that the law was unconstitutional. It said a countrys capital is where the presidential office, parliament and administrative organizations are gathered, and Seoul being the capital was an established fact according to the customary Constitution.

Following that ruling, the Roh administration decided to relocate only parts of government ministries, which now comprise the Sejong administrative town.
China's achievements in nuclear technology benefit developing countries

10:34, March 26, 2024 By Zamir Ahmed Awan ( People's Daily Online

Recently, China announced that it was opening its nuclear research facilities in batches to international scientific institutions and nuclear energy companies for cooperation purposes. It is a step in the right direction.

The first batch to be opened has ten key facilities, including the nuclear fusion reactor HL-3, a test reactor for medical isotopes, the world's first third-generation underground research lab, and an advanced research reactor, considered to be one of the six major neutron sources in the world.

Chinas decision to open its nuclear facilities will help many countries to conduct research and acquire nuclear technology for peaceful use. Currently, many countries are facing an energy crisis. The most vulnerable are developing countries, whose economies cannot support the rising cost of energy. Nuclear energy is the source of one of the cheapest modes of energy  electricity. In addition to the production of nuclear electricity, nuclear technology can play a miraculous role in the health and agriculture sectors, and also has many other peaceful uses.

Chinas announcement that it will open its nuclear facilities to the international community has garnered widespread admiration and appreciation, particularly from developing nations. These nations, often marginalized and subjected to the hegemony and restrictions imposed by a few dominant powers, see China's gesture as a significant step towards fostering greater global cooperation and inclusivity.

China's commitment to supporting the development aspirations of smaller and weaker nations, particularly those in the developing and underdeveloped world, is evident. The nation is being increasingly recognized for its proactive stance in global affairs and its efforts to promote mutually beneficial relationships based on win-win principles.

China has been victimized by some Western nations and faced sanctions. It has been deprived of the latest technologies and denied access to modern research. However, China is in a position of not being dependent on other nations, but is willing to share its experience with all other friendly and developing nations.

Nuclear technologies can play a revolutionary role in developing countries efforts to boost their economies and development. The civilian use of nuclear technology can resolve energy crises and enhance agricultural output. Nuclear technology can contribute to the health sector, which is greatly needed in most developing countries.

Pakistan, a steadfast ally of China, stands to benefit from this initiative. Like many other developing countries, Pakistan grapples with the challenge of energy scarcity, which poses a significant obstacle to its economic progress. In light of this, leveraging nuclear technology becomes imperative for Pakistan to address its energy needs effectively. With its existing nuclear infrastructure and adherence to international safety standards set by bodies such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Pakistan is well-positioned to harness the potential of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

The prospect of increased collaboration between China and Pakistan in the nuclear domain holds promise for addressing Pakistan's energy and economic challenges. As China opens up more nuclear facilities, opportunities for enhanced cooperation and the utilization of nuclear technology for various sectors, including health and agriculture, are expected to grow.

Beyond Pakistan, the broader international community views China's emergence as a beacon of hope for nations that have been historically oppressed, deprived, and coerced by dominant powers. Chinese leadership, cognizant of these sentiments, is poised to take further steps in fostering a more equitable and inclusive global order in the foreseeable future.

In essence, China's decision to open its nuclear facilities represents a significant stride towards fostering global cooperation and addressing the needs of nations facing pressing challenges. By extending its hand in partnership and solidarity, China exemplifies a commitment to shared prosperity and a more balanced world order.

Zamir Ahmed Awan is a non-resident fellow at the Center for China and Globalization (CCG) and a sinologist at the National University of Sciences and Technology in Pakistan. Email: [email protected].

The opinions expressed in this article reflect those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of People's Daily Online.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
Top Chinese diplomat expresses condolences over death of Moscow terrorist attack

Xinhua) 13:37, March 27, 2024

BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday left a message in a Russian Embassy online condolence book on the terrorist attack in Moscow.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, extended his deep condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack in Moscow, saying that China opposes all forms of terrorism, strongly condemns terrorist attacks and firmly supports the Russian government's efforts to safeguard its national security and stability.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
A minor South Korean opposition party launched by disgraced former justice minister Cho Kuk has emerged as potentially the strongest spoiler to the chances of either of its two major parties securing a majority in next month's parliamentary election.

Cho, a liberal and confidante of former President Moon Jae-in, is likely to ally  but not merge - with the democrats who currently have a majority in parliament. He has mainly been courting Democratic Party (DP) members disenfranchised by party leader Lee Jae-myung, once an archrival of Moon.

Both Cho and Lee are involved in criminal cases for separate fraud and corruption charges - which they deny - but their alliance could prove problematic for conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, a former top prosecutor whose meteoric political rise came after he clashed with his predecessor Moon while leading the fraud investigation into Cho's family.

Cho said his aim is for the opposition camp to gain sufficient seats in the election to make Yoon a "dead duck" president.

"If the Democratic Party and our party secure significant numbers, we can create a crack in Yoon's administration," Cho told a news conference on Wednesday.

"We can make him a lame duck first, and then a dead duck. I don't know whether that person will be able to finish his remaining three years or he will be impeached, but our goal is to politically incapacitate him."

Yoon's office did not immediately response to a request for comment.

Cho's Rebuilding Korea Party is aiming for at least 10 seats, a fraction of the single-chamber, 300-seat assembly, but with polls showing the election too close to call it may be enough to prevent either of the two main parties winning an outright majority.

Yoon's People Power Party and the DP should get at least 110 and 82 of the 254 elective seats, respectively, in the April 10 election, according to an analysis released on Tuesday by the Yonhap news agency based on internal party surveys and pollster estimates.

Some 60 areas are deemed too close to call or minor party strongholds, and 46 proportional representation seats will be allocated to each party based on the total number of votes cast.

Cho's party is only in the race for the proportional representation seats, but is seen by pollsters as the only minor group to get 10 or more seats in the assembly.

People Power said it had no information to offer, but Han Dong-hoon, a former fellow prosecutor who currently heads the party, has described Cho and Lee as "extremists" and their coalition as a "harmful collusion," saying they were seeking to impeach Yoon to serve their own personal interests, retaliate against the country's justice system and destroy democracy, diplomacy and the economy.

Cho is awaiting a Supreme Court review after a lower court sentenced him to two years in prison for fabricating documents to facilitate his children's school admissions.

The scandal divided the already polarised country and frustrated many young voters, and eventually contributed to the downfall of Moon's government and Yoon's victory in the 2022 presidential election, with Lee taking over the DP leadership.

Cho has said he respects the court rulings, but noted Yoon and Han did not face any investigations into alleged irregularities involving their own families, a claim that both have previously dismissed. (Reuters)
By Park Gi-hyun

Mom, I dont want this spinach, it tastes bitter and its hard to swallow. Can we skip this meal mixed with a lot of vegetables? The picky eaters at my home displease and enrage me at the breakfast table many times. Feeling rushed and pressed to end breakfast on time or just trying to avoid a dispute, I often remove the undesired food from their dishes or offer them an alternative, such as sugar-coated cereal, to feed them before I leave quickly. Then, I habitually throw away the leftovers with no guilt.

These days, I listen to news podcasts while I commute, beginning my day by hearing news from conflict zones, where civilians are tightly gripped by a human-induced disaster: famine. Although I have clearly recognized the hunger crisis around the globe, the way I live every day seems to stand aloof from the crisis. It is embarrassing to admit that I am very apathetic to people in immediate danger.

People in the Gaza Strip, where civilians have endured war over the last five months, are currently facing acute food insecurity. As the war continues, the focus of this ongoing war has been moved to the dire living conditions of people in the region. Hunger has ravaged the combat area, and it is hard to fathom the grim lives of the ordinary citizens.

The report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, the worlds leading authority on hunger, has concluded that almost the entire population in the Gaza Strip is facing high levels of acute food insecurity, endangering millions of civilians lives.

I came across a picture of an emaciated boy lying hopelessly on his bed, a bunch of people jumping into the ocean to fight over aid cartons dropped into the sea, and countless children desperately reaching out for food with their dented bowls. These horrific images are evidence of catastrophic hunger in Gaza, which breaks my heart.

Hunger has also paralyzed Haiti amid gang violence. Children living in Sudan have been severely malnourished since the civil war broke out last year. Many parts of the world in 2024 are experiencing a war of starvation.

At home, my family is taking advantage of the excess food. Perhaps I take the abundance of food for granted. Many say the world is interconnected, but I feel ever more detached when it comes to the crisis taking place in less affluent countries where the people go hungry daily.

I am aware that there are many compassionate people actively working on the ground to ensure that assistance gets to people in need. I hope their help can reach as many people as possible. At least I should do my part at home by having the guilt of producing food waste at home, teaching my kids to sympathize with those in desperate need and looking for ways to offer help.





The writer (faith0906@gmail.com) is keen to explore the world outside the office and loves to weave a story of our daily lives.


 
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A woman using an inhaler. BSIP | Universal Images Group | Getty Images

Think a friend or colleague should be getting this newsletter? Share this link with them to sign up. Good afternoon! Inhalers will soon get a whole lot cheaper for some Americans. Three of the world's largest inhaler makers have agreed to cap the out-of-pocket price of their inhaler products and similar inhaled medicines at $35 a month for certain U.S. patients. British drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline announced its cost cap last week following similar moves by AstraZeneca and the privately held Boehringer Ingelheim. But there's one holdout: Teva Pharmaceuticals, another major inhaler manufacturer, has not made a similar commitment. The cost caps from the three other companies won't go into effect immediately. They also didn't come from out of nowhere. In January, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and other members of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions launched an investigation into why all four companies charge more for inhalers in the U.S. than in other countries. It adds to the years of political scrutiny and public outrage that the broader pharmaceutical industry has faced over high health-care costs in the U.S. Last year, Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk and Sanofi moved to slash the cost of certain insulin products for some U.S. patients following pressure from the same Senate panel. So, who typically uses inhalers, and how much do they cost in the first place? People with chronic lung conditions that affect their breathing, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, or COPD, most commonly use inhalers. They can use daily inhalers to prevent or manage their symptoms and fast-acting inhalers at times when their breathing worsens, like during an asthma attack. An estimated 25 million Americans have asthma, while around 16 million suffer from COPD. Many of those patients rely on inhalers to help them breathe, and some end up having to ration those products due to price, the Senate HELP committee said in a release in January. Here's what the panel says drugmakers have been charging for some of their inhaler products: Advair HFA from GSK: $319 in the U.S.; $26 in the U.K.

Combivent Respimat from Boehringer Ingelheim: $489 in the U.S.; $7 in France

Breztri Aerosphere from AstraZeneca: $645 in the U.S; $49 in the U.K.

QVAR RediHaler from Teva Pharmaceuticals: $286 in the U.S.; $9 in Germany In addition to the price differences, the panel argued that the companies extended monopolies on their products inappropriately. The committee argued the drugmakers used tactics like obtaining additional patents close to the end of their period of market exclusivity, shifting patients to newer versions of inhalers with longer patent protection and entering into agreements with generic manufacturers to stave off cheaper competition. Generic inhalers can cost as little as $30.

School nurse Keri Personnete holds a child's inhaler in the nurse's office at the Barrington Early Learning Center in Barrington, Illinois, on Feb. 15, 2017. Stacey Wescott | Chicago Tribune | Tribune News Service | Getty Images

Notably, GSK said it recently reduced the list price of Advair HFA by an average of 20% and a similar product, Advair Diskus, by an average of 50%. GSK's new price cap applies to both of those products and the rest of its asthma and COPD inhaler portfolio. That includes the company's popular Trelegy Ellipta and other Ellipta inhaler products, among others. The caps come after GSK discontinued the branded asthma inhalers Flovent HFA and Flovent Diskus at the beginning of January. The company replaced them with "authorized generic" versions of the inhaler, which are identical aside from branding. The company's price ceiling will specifically benefit patients taking those medicines whose monthly costs currently exceed $35. It will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, GSK added in a release. Meanwhile, AstraZeneca's price cap will apply to the company's entire range of inhaler products used to treat asthma and COPD. That includes Symbicort, Breztri Aerosphere, Bevespi Aerosphere and Airsupra. The cap will apply to patients who are uninsured or underinsured and will go into effect on June 1. That's the same day Boehringer Ingeleim's out-of-pocket cost cap on all of its inhaler products will take effect. Boehringer Ingelheim's cap will apply for "the most vulnerable patients," including those who are uninsured or underinsured. The cap applies to its Atrovent HFA, Combivent Respimat and Spiriva products, among others. Sanders applauded the three companies for announcing their cost caps. "This will significantly cut costs for millions of Americans with asthma and COPD so that they will be able to afford the inhalers they need," he said in a release last week. We'll be watching to see whether Teva announces its own cap. Feel free to send any tips, suggestions, story ideas and data to Annika at annikakim.constantino@nbcuni.com.

Latest in health-care technology
The remains of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. Michael A. McCoy | The Washington Post | Getty Images

The Baltimore bridge collapse has prompted carmakers to assess operations after the closure of the busiest U.S. auto port. Many do not expect major disruptions so far. In a dramatic scene, a cargo ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the early hours of Tuesday morning, causing it to crumple into the water almost immediately. Six people who had been working on the bridge were presumed dead on Wednesday, after rescuers failed to find them. The Port of Baltimore, the 11th largest port in the U.S. and its busiest for autos and light trucks, has been closed until further notice. Logistics companies immediately began rushing to make rearrangements to other East Coast ports to transit their imports and exports. Mercedes-Benz USA CEO Dimitris Psillakis told CNBC on Tuesday that Baltimore was one of the German company's four distribution centers in the U.S., but that other entry ports such as Brunswick, Georgia, would help ease import pressures.

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"It's too early to see the effects, the situation is still developing and we will do our best to make sure that we find ways to supply the vehicles out in the market, but it's still too early to judge," Psillakis said. Volkswagen Group of America, a subsidiary of Germany's Volkswagen , said it did not expect an impact on vessel operations, as its facility is located on the seaboard side of the bridge, but that it may experience trucking delays due to diverted traffic flows in the area.

"Last year, we received, processed and shipped approximately 100,000 vehicles through Baltimore for US dealers across VW, Audi, Lamborghini and Bentley brands located in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic U.S," the company said in a statement. Sweden's Volvo Group said it did not expect a significant impact, but was checking its U.S. production facilities. U.S. firms General Motors and Ford , and Japan's Toyota , Nissan and Mitsubishi all said that they were evaluating the situation and would likely have to divert operations, but that they did not expect significant disruptions.

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The Key Bridge was hit by a ship and collapsed on March 26, 2024. The Washington Post | The Washington Post | Getty Images

Six construction workers were presumed dead on Wednesday after a massive cargo ship struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, causing it to partially collapse into the Patapsco River. The incident, which has wreaked havoc at one of the country's busiest ports and sparked fears about supply chain disruption, has raised questions about the Singapore-flagged container ship involved. Known as the Dali, the nearly 1,000-foot-long vessel was heading out of Baltimore Harbor and bound for Sri Lanka, when it hit a support pylon of the bridge at around 1:30 a.m. ET. It appeared to be traveling at roughly 8 knots (about 9 mph) before the collision, according to LSEG shipping data. Video footage of the disaster appears to show the 1.6-mile structure crumpling into the icy water almost immediately after it was struck. A search and rescue effort was suspended Tuesday evening.

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Maryland Gov. Wes Moore on Tuesday said the crew of the Dali was able to send a critical emergency alert that enabled authorities to clear the bridge of further car traffic ahead of impact. "Between the mayday and the collapse that we  that we had officials that were able to  to begin to stop the flow of traffic, so more cars would not end up on the bridge, which saved lives in a very, very heroic way," Moore said at a news conference. Moore said the ship's crew notified authorities of power issues prior to the collision and that a preliminary investigation pointed to an accident.

What do we know about the Dali?

The Dali was previously involved in a minor incident in Belgium's Port of Antwerp, the second-largest port in Europe. The ship suffered "sufficient damages" in July 2016 when it struck the stone wall of the quay during unmooring maneuvers, according to shipping trafficking website Vesselfinder. The accident, which did not cause any injuries, occurred during good weather and "was caused by the mistake of the Master and pilot on board." The Dali remained afloat after the incident and was subsequently repaired. Separately, an inspection of the Dali in San Antonio, Chile, in June last year found propulsion and auxiliary machinery deficiencies, NBC News reported Tuesday, citing data from the website Equasis, which provides information on ships.

In an aerial view, cargo ship Dali is seen after running into and collapsing the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. Tasos Katopodis | Getty Images

However, Singapore's port authority on Wednesday said that the container ship had passed overseas inspections and carried certificates to cover its structural integrity and functionality at the time of the Baltimore bridge incident. The Dali underwent and passed two separate foreign port state inspections in June and September last year, the authority said. In the June inspection, the container ship was found to have had a faulty monitor gauge for fuel pressure, but this was fixed before the vessel departed the port. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore added that the Dali's next classification and statutory surveys had been scheduled for June 2024.

Who chartered the ship?
By Jun Bong-geun

The Korean Peninsula has always stood as one of the most dangerous flashpoints for conflict throughout the Cold War and the post-Cold War era. Today, in what some term the post-post-Cold War era, the specter of war looms even larger. This is primarily due to the entrenched dynamics of zero-sum security competition, namely the "unification competition," wherein the two Koreas vie for dominance, each seeking to eliminate the other.

Across the military demarcation line, the South maintains a standing force of 480,000 troops, while the North boasts 1.2 million, underscoring the intense militarization and readiness for conflict on both sides. Moreover, the presence of 28,000 U.S. soldiers in the South as part of the South Korea-U.S. alliance guarantees U.S. involvement in any conflict as a party to the war. Additionally, China and Russia stand ready to intervene in support of North Korea, potentially escalating any confrontation into an extended regional war with a possible exchange of nuclear weapons. Though the chances of such a scenario remain low for now, the risk will rise in the absence of proactive measures to address the ongoing war and nuclear crises in the region.

The chances of accidental military collision and limited warfare remain a constant concern due to the following reasons: a very high level of hostility between the two Koreas, frequent large-scale military exercises and military provocations, heightened military preparedness and tensions and preemptive strike doctrines, among others. Moreover, North Korea, chronically suffering from economic, food and regime crises, has a strong political incentive to pursue limited conflict, as most theories on the root causes of war predict.

Then, how do we solve this Korea problem? As Tim Marshall's best-selling book "The Power of Geography" (2016) aptly puts it, "No, we cannot. We just manage it." However, it is debatable whether effective management of this problem has been achieved thus far. Denuclearization diplomacy over the past 30 years has failed, and the risks of war and nuclear use are higher than ever. In light of this pressing reality, what measures can be taken to prevent the imminent danger of war and nuclear use, as well as to contain North Korea's freewheeling nuclear and missile buildup?

First, the resumption of U.S.-North Korea dialogue is essential. Despite the U.S. government's proposal for "unconditional dialogue," North Korea has persistently refused to engage since the breakdown of the 2019 Hanoi U.S.-North Korea summit. While the best way to resume U.S.-North Korea dialogue would be through a summit, there is little chance that current U.S. President Joe Biden will meet Chairman Kim Jung-un. The next best option is for Biden to send a letter to Kim. If necessary, China or a neutral European state could facilitate the exchange of such correspondence.

Second, it is crucial to reaffirm the 2018 U.S.-North Korea Singapore Joint Statement by both leaders. This statement outlines key objectives, including achieving a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula, normalizing diplomatic relations, building a peace regime and repatriating American war remains. If the two leaders could reaffirm these goals through an exchange of letters or a high-level meeting, working-level negotiations to implement the agreement will follow. Subsequently, North Korea is expected to suspend further nuclear and missile tests.

Third, both U.S.-North Korea and South-North Korea politico-military talks should be held for crisis management and communication to prevent military collisions and their potential escalation. A notable precedent occurred in late 2023 when the U.S. and China agreed to resume high-level military dialogue to prevent military collisions in East Asia despite fierce strategic competition between the two. Similarly, engaging in military dialogue with North Korea is essential to prevent a military collision and possible nuclear use. Future politico-military talks will need to prioritize crisis management and communication, as well as initiatives aimed at reducing military tensions and nuclear risks.

Lastly, given that peace on the Korean Peninsula hinges on North Korea's denuclearization, diplomatic efforts toward this end must be resumed as soon as possible, despite its challenges. Central to this effort is the development and adoption of a sustainable and effective denuclearization strategy. In addition, consensus must be reached on key principles guiding denuclearization diplomacy, such as mutual threat reduction with North Korea, a step-by-step approach, reciprocal exchanges of denuclearization steps and corresponding measures and simultaneous progress of denuclearization and peace regime-building. These principles would help make the denuclearization process implementable and sustainable.





Dr. Jun Bong-geun is professor emeritus at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy and visiting advisor at United States Institute of Peace. He is a member of Asia-Pacific Leadership Network for Nuclear Non-proliferation and Disarmament (APLN). This article is published in cooperation with APLN (www.apln.network).




Boeing needs to be led by engineers if it wants to pull itself out of its current crisis, Tim Clark, the president of Emirates Airline, said Wednesday.

Boeing said Monday that CEO Dave Calhoun will step down at the end of the year, part of a broad management shake-up. The U.S. aerospace giant is once again mired in controversy following a recent series of mid-flight technical failures, starting with a door panel that blew off of a new Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 midflight on Jan. 5

The Federal Aviation Administration and Justice Department are now scrutinizing the plane maker more intensely, the former capping the production of Boeing's 737 aircraft at 38 per month while it investigates the company's manufacturing practices. The FAA grounded all 737 Max 9 aircraft with door plugs for inspection on Jan. 6, though the planes were cleared to fly shortly afterward.

"To fix Boeing's issues the company needs a strong engineering lead as its head coupled to a governance model which prioritizes safety and quality," said Clark, who leads Dubai's flag carrier Emirates.

"It is little wonder that the Machinists Union wants a seat on the board, simply to ensure that the voice of the factory floor is part and parcel of the decision process and is fully integrated into the governance model's risk management strategies."

Aviation analysts and former Boeing employees have criticized the company's reported sidelining of engineers in its senior management ranks. They note that of the top executives at Boeing, the only one with an engineering background was Stan Deal  the outgoing CEO of Boeing's commercial airplane division. He is stepping down and will be succeeded by Stephanie Pope, Boeing's newly named chief operating officer, Boeing said Monday.

"Whether, yet again, this changing of the guard will resolve Boeing's issues only time will tell, but time, unfortunately, is not on their side," Clark said in emailed comments. "I would suggest that some serious lateral thinking kicks in as soon as possible."

CNBC has contacted Boeing for comment.
With semiconductor stocks losing momentum over the past few weeks, Intel's strength is starting to show some cracks and at risk of a pullback. Here's an options strategy to capitalize on the potential decline. After being in the lead of the semiconductor industry for nearly 2 decades, Intel's design and fabrication model become their Achilles heel a few years ago. Ever since, Intel (INTC) has been playing catch-up, and early last year, investors started to pay attention and boost the shares. INTC 5Y mountain Intel, 5 years But perhaps the stock is starting to get ahead of itself on the back of an AI boom. This week's news that China is potentially phasing out Intel and AMD chips from their government usage will likely add to downside. If you look at a chart of INTC over the past 18 months, the stock has doubled from below $24 to just over $50 at the end of last year. However, just after reaching those 52-week highs, INTC has underperformed the market considerably. The momentum turning negative, coupled with the poor relative strength, suggests INTC could be headed for some further downside towards its $37 breakout level. Looking at the business, Intel is now trading at the richest valuation we have seen over the past decade at over 31 times forward earnings. This is while analysts do not expect EPS and revenues to recover to 2021 levels until 2027. There are a lot of unknowns with how the industry will transform with AI over the next 12-24 months so I believe the current valuation is priced too high. Additionally, Intel's historical valuation has ranged between 10 times to 15 times forward earnings over the past decade, and it's now priced at double that. This leads to risks to the downside as relative strength and momentum slows for INTC. The trade With implied volatility near the upper bound of its 52-week range, my preference is to buy a put vertical spread to offset the cost of buying an outright put. I'm looking out to May and purchasing the $42/37 Put vertical at $1.81 debit. This entails: Buying May $42 Puts @ $2.55 Selling May $37 Puts @ $0.74 This would provide a potential profit of $319 per contract if INTC Is below $37, while risking $181 per contract if INTC Is above $42 at expiration. DISCLOSURES: (None) THE ABOVE CONTENT IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY . THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSITUTE FINANCIAL, INVESTMENT, TAX OR LEGAL ADVICE OR A RECOMMENDATION TO BUY ANY SECURITY OR OTHER FINANCIAL ASSET. THE CONTENT IS GENERAL IN NATURE AND DOES NOT REFLECT ANY INDIVIDUAL'S UNIQUE PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES. THE ABOVE CONTENT MIGHT NOT BE SUITABLE FOR YOUR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES. BEFORE MAKING ANY FINANCIAL DECISIONS, YOU SHOULD STRONGLY CONSIDER SEEKING ADVICE FROM YOUR OWN FINANCIAL OR INVESTMENT ADVISOR. Click here for the full disclaimer.
A boy cries in a school playground. A new British study has found that some behaviours considered problematic in childhood can lead to higher salaries later in life.

School bullies are likely to end up with higher salaries, a new study suggests, upending the conventional wisdom that they will receive their comeuppance later in life.

Research published earlier this month by the U.K.'s Institute for Social and Economic Research found that children who exhibited certain kinds of problematic behavior at school, including throwing temper tantrums and teasing or bullying others, had higher earnings in their 40s.

Children with "conduct problems" at school also reported higher satisfaction in work.

Meanwhile, it was children who struggled with paying attention and forming relationships with their classmates who ended up performing more poorly in the labor market, and had lower satisfaction with both work and life.

Failure to finish tasks and emotional problems such as anxiety were also linked to poorer outcomes in the jobs market.

The study used data from the 1970 British Cohort Study to compare a broad range of behaviors and skills reported by teachers at the ages of 10 and 16, with educational level, earnings, working hours and occupation up to the age of 46.

The social and emotional skills identified in school-age children could help predict various facets of later life, it found. The study factored in socioeconomic details such as family income, parental employment and educational status.

The results suggest a need to reconsider how schools discipline children, according to the authors.

"It is possible that what is often identified as aggressive behaviour is the adaptive response to a competitive environment," they say.

"Rather than a punitive approach, there could be more focus on understanding the causes of the disruptive behaviour and teachers could be trained to identify strategies that help children to channel these tendencies in ways that fit better with the classroom."

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Migrant people seeking asylum in the US speak with a Texas National Guard agent after crossing the Rio Grande River in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua state, Mexico on March 13, 2024.

A federal appeals court early on Wednesday extended its hold on a new Texas immigration law, meaning the measure cannot go into effect while litigation continues.

A three-judge panel of the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on a 2-1 vote said in a decision issued overnight that the statute, known as Senate Bill 4, should remain blocked. The same court temporarily froze the law March 19, just hours after the Supreme Court said it could go into effect.

"For nearly 150 years, the Supreme Court has held that the power to control immigration  the entry, admission, and removal of noncitizensis exclusively a federal power," Judge Priscilla Richman wrote for the majority.

She cited in part a 2012 Supreme Court ruling that invalided a similar law in Arizona.

Whatever the state's criticisms about the federal government's "actions and inactions" on immigration, it is the president's role "to decide whether, and if so, how to pursue noncitizens illegally present in the United States," Richman wrote.

The state law would allow police to arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing the border from Mexico and impose criminal penalties. It would also empower state judges to order people to be deported to Mexico.

The dispute is the latest clash between the Biden administration and Texas over immigration enforcement on the U.S.-Mexico border.

Texas could potentially now ask the Supreme Court to allow the law to go into effect. In the meantime, the appeals court holds another hearing on April 3.

Richman and Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez voted to block the law. Judge Andrew Oldham voted for it to go into effect.

Richman and Oldham are both Republican appointees, while Ramirez was appointed by President Joe Biden.

It was the same lineup of judges that issued the temporary block.

Oldham wrote a lengthy dissenting opinion saying the law should not be blocked in full because of hypothetical concerns about how it would be enforced.

Because of the federal government's struggles to control immigration, "the state is forever helpless" to respond if it cannot legislate on the issue, he said.

"Texas can do nothing because Congress apparently did everything, yet federal non-enforcement means Congress's everything is nothing," Oldham wrote.

A federal judge blocked the law after the Biden administration sued, but the appeals court initially said in a brief order that it could go into effect March 10 if the Supreme Court declined to intervene. In the meantime, the appeals court delayed a decision on whether to impose a more permanent block during Texas' appeal.

The Supreme Court initially put the law on hold while it determined what steps to take, but on March 19 said it would allow the measure to go into effect, with the understanding that the appeals court would act quickly on the underlying case.

The Supreme Court's order prompted alarm among immigrant rights activists amid confusion on the ground about whether the law could be enforced immediately.

The appeals court appeared to get the message and immediately imposed the new hold on the law while it considered Texas' appeal of the district court injunction.
The cargo ship Dali sits in the water after running into and collapsing the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

"The impact of the Baltimore port stoppage on construction and contractor supply chains may be significant," said William George, director of research for ImportGenius.

The Port of Baltimore is also No. 1 in the U.S for auto/light truck and agriculture tractor imports and exports.

According to ImportGenius, the Dali unloaded freight on March 24 which included clothing and household goods that could be on the diverted vessels, also ranged from approximately 80 containers of Satsuma mandarin oranges, approximately 74 containers of IKEA products and furniture to 104 containers of Electrolux products including chest freezers, air conditioners, and microwaves.

Logistics executives tell CNBC the next 36 hours will be critical in the movement of the diverted trade away from the Port of Baltimore after the deadly accident of the 10,000-container capacity containership Dali which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the early hours of Tuesday.

In contrast, Maersk is providing transport. "For cargo already on water, we will omit the port, and will discharge cargo set for Baltimore, in nearby ports. From these ports, it will be possible to utilize landside transportation to reach final destination instead," Maersk said in an alert to customers. Though it noted that the situation remains fluid. "We are still working through the various contingencies with our customers and will continue to provide both specific and general customer advisories as the matter progresses," it said.

COSCO announced Wednesday morning that its services would "be concluded" once the diverted container arrives at the alternate port. Evergreen announced the same measure .

It was the first ocean carrier to declare force majeure  the provision in a contract that frees parties from an obligation due to events beyond their control.

In an alert to customers Tuesday, CMA CGM wrote, "Those (containers) on the water will be discharged at an alternate port where they will be made available for pick-up, and CMA CGM's bill of lading will terminate."

Ocean carriers are declaring "force majeure" due to the Baltimore port bridge crisis, telling logistics companies and U.S. shippers including retailers that once cargo is dropped off at alternate ports, it becomes their responsibility to pick up.

One problem, according to logistics managers, is that ocean carriers are not updating their vessel transits fast enough to alert them to the new diverted port so they can plan for their customer's container pick-up.

Paul Brashier, vice president of drayage and intermodal at ITS Logistics, tells CNBC it is fielding calls from clients asking where their containers are going. "They are concerned they will be charged container late fees [detention and demurrage] if they don't get their containers out of the terminals as soon as possible."

The urgency of picking up diverted containers has increased as ocean carriers declare "force majeure" on Baltimore-bound containers once the boxes arrive at the diverted port, and companies who have imported their products need to to find transportation to move the cargo before container late fees are charged.

"The biggest thing we are seeing from our data integrations with the ocean carriers is we are not seeing the port of discharge updated yet," Brashier said, citing the ITS Logistics' ContainerAI platform. "So what we are doing now is we will have to manage logistics of containers through the data given to us by the terminals. But that means we are alerted when the container has already arrived, versus planning while the container is still en route to the port."

Once a container arrives at a terminal, the clock begins ticking on the free time allocated to a container. Once that free time expires, the detention and demurrage fees start.

"We are looking to see if terminals will either give an extension of free time or waive the fees," Brashier said. "That's the rub right now."

Tracking containers diverted from Baltimore

To help navigate the supply chain slowdowns during crises and disruptions, the U.S Department of Transportation created a private/public digital platform for supply chain monitoring called Freight Logistics Optimizations Works (FLOW.) It was created two years ago and has since expanded to over 70 participants, and an additional 60 plus companies waiting to be onboarded.

FLOW has partnered with retailers including Home Depot, Nike, Walmart, and Target; railroads Union Pacific and BNSF; and logistics providers CH Robinson, DHL, and FedEx. The aggregation of data from these participations provides a platform where real-time data analysis can be made on port and inland network congestion and can monitor unexpected cargo shifts caused by world events, such as the unfolding accident at the Port of Baltimore.

Officials from the DOT's Office of Multimodal Freight tell CNBC they have heard from FLOW ocean carriers and shipper members, and they are evaluating near-term and medium-term options to divert their cargo given the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

"Because FLOW helps us see real, forward-looking data on ocean bookings 15, 30, 45 and 60 days out, participating in this data-sharing program means we could start seeing industrywide where those re-bookings are gravitating to," said Matt Castle, vice president for global forwarding at CH Robinson, adding that all ocean bookings in and out of Baltimore have to be rescheduled until the port is operational again. "Before we send our customers' cargo to those ports, that should be helpful in ensuring they have enough equipment, have enough appointments and are staffed accordingly," he said.

While the FLOW program has expanded considerably over the last two years, not all East Coast ports are in the database. Out of the diverted ports, New York/New Jersey and Savannah, are included.

"But that's a start," Castle said.

Rail and truck service concerns

CH Robinson expects rail services to return to Baltimore later this week, but Castle added, "Ocean containers headed to the port, primarily from Chicago, will pile up and not be able to move outbound for export."

Val Noel, COO at TRAC Intermodal, the largest marine chassis provider and pool manager and a member of FLOW, tells CNBC the east-bound boxes out of Chicago, either export loads or revenue empties, will be held for a period of time at rail terminals in Chicago.

Officials from the DOT's Office of Multimodal Freight told CNBC that FLOW is not yet capturing export cargo. However, the booking data it does have will be enable participants to see changes in trends relative to truck vs. rail bookings coming into the key impacted ports receiving the diverted trade.

One of the biggest concerns among logistics companies is availability of chassis for both truck and rail to handle the diverted cargo. Logistics managers have told CNBC the ports of Savannah, Brunswick, Virginia, Charleston, and New York/New Jersey are expected to be receiving the diverted freight. The ports tell CNBC they can receive the extra cargo, but logistics managers are concerned about the availability of chassis to receive the extra freight.

"For our company, we have plenty of supply in Philadelphia and New York/New Jersey to handle any diverted cargo," said Val Noel, COO at TRAC Intermodal, the largest marine chassis provider and pool manager and a member of FLOW. "We don't supply chassis in Norfolk or Charleston and these are Port Chassis Pools."

Mike Wilson, CEO of Consolidated Chassis Management (CCM) which is the sole manager and chassis provider for SACP 3.0., said: "If cargo is diverted, it should also go to New York and Norfolk, and we should be able to serve the ports of Wilmington, Savannah and Jacksonville."

"Once the steamship line (SSL) finalizes the diversion plan to discharge import volume, the SSL will redirect the outbound boxes holding in Chicago to allow the outbound vessel to be fully profiled. While there could be an initial delay, the supply chain should be able to pivot to the diverted gateways and minimize any significant congestion issues," Noel said.

Alan Baer, CEO of OL USA, tells CNBC he has containers on the Dali.

"We have cargo going to UAE, Saudi, Doha, India and Bangladesh," said Baer. "For our U.S. customers, our imports are being diverted to New York/New Jersey and Virginia (Norfolk), cargo for the Midwest was originally headed to Norfolk. Our Midwest exports we think will be sent to NY, Norfolk as well, plus Montreal."

Stephen Edwards, CEO of the Port of Virginia, said its operating team is already working with ocean carriers whose vessels were due to call Baltimore and offering the capability to discharge cargoes as requested. "The Port of Virginia has a significant amount of experience in handling surges of import and export cargo and is ready to provide whatever assistance we can to the team at the Port of Baltimore," Edwards said.
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Moderna has more to offer beyond its Covid vaccine. The biotech company Wednesday announced positive clinical trial data on three experimental vaccines against other viruses. The company is moving those shots to final stage studies, it said. The update brings Moderna a step closer to having multiple products on the market, which it badly needs amid plunging demand for Covid shots worldwide. The company's Covid jab is its only commercially available product. Moderna's stock has long been tied to that vaccine, with shares falling nearly 45% last year. But shares of the company closed 3% higher on Wednesday after the announcements. Moderna will chart its post-Covid future Wednesday during its fifth annual "Vaccines Day," an investor event in Boston focused on the company's vaccine portfolio. That business has an estimated total addressable market of $52 billion for infectious disease shots, which includes $27 billion for respiratory vaccines and more than $25 billion for latent shots and other jabs. A category of viruses called latent viruses linger inside patients for prolonged periods without causing any symptoms but can "reactivate" and cause serious health complications later in their lives. They represent a huge unmet need that Moderna can address, Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel told CNBC in an interview on Wednesday. "Once those viruses are in your body, it's in your body forever," he said, adding that there are no approved shots for several of the latent viruses, including some that Moderna is targeting. The company will present new clinical trial data on the three vaccines, including some against latent viruses, at the event Wednesday. Those vaccines include a shot against norovirus, a highly contagious stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhea; a vaccine against Epstein-Barr virus, a common herpes virus that can cause contagious infections and is associated with some cancers; and a shot designed to target a virus that causes shingles and chickenpox.

Moderna will also discuss other updates across its vaccine business. The company has five other shots in late-stage clinical trials and said it expects to release data on two of those jabs this year. That includes its combination vaccine against Covid and the flu and a shot against another common herpes virus called cytomegalovirus, or CMV. Among the other vaccines in late-stage development is a jab against respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, which is expected to win regulatory approval in the U.S. in May. It also includes a new and improved version of Moderna's Covid shot. The company on Tuesday said its "next-generation" Covid shot triggered a stronger immune response against the virus than its current vaccine on the market in a late-stage clinical trial. Another shot in phase three trials is the company's flu vaccine. Also on Wednesday, Moderna said it recently entered into a development and commercialization funding agreement with Blackstone Life Sciences, a private equity segment of The Blackstone Group. Blackstone will fund up to $750 million to advance Moderna's flu shot program, with "a return based on commercial milestones" and low single-digit royalties. Bancel told CNBC the company's messenger RNA platform, used in its Covid vaccine, "is working so well" against other diseases. That mRNA technology works by teaching the body to produce a harmless piece of a virus, which triggers an immune response against certain diseases. "Think about the [total addressable market] Moderna is going after  we're going to be one of the most important vaccine companies in the world," he said. Still, it will take time before Moderna's pipeline will pay off. The company in its third-quarter earnings release in November said it expects revenue to fall to $4 billion in 2024 before it grows again in 2025. It expects to break even in 2026, executives said during a November earnings call.

New clinical trial data on three vaccines

Moderna's latest shots to move into late-stage trials represent significant opportunities for the company. There is currently no approved shot to prevent norovirus, the most common cause of the stomach flu. The virus results in approximately 200,000 deaths per year and substantial health-care costs, according to Moderna. The company examined two different norovirus shot candidates in a phase one trial on more than 600 patients ages 18 to 49 and 60 to 80 in the U.S. An interim analysis showed that a single dose of a trivalent vaccine called mRNA-1403 targeting three norovirus strains triggered a strong immune response across all dose sizes. The shot also had a "clinically acceptable" safety profile. Moderna said it is moving that shot to a phase three trial. The market for norovirus vaccines represents a $3 billion to $6 billion annual market, according to the company.

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With 92 billionaires, Mumbai ranks third behind New York and London, but ahead of Beijing, and Shanghai. Tuul & Bruno Morandi | The Image Bank | Getty Images

Move over, Beijing. Mumbai is now the Asian capital with the most number of billionaires, overtaking Beijing, according to Hurun Research Institute's global rich list. This is the first time that India's most populous city has taken the top spot in Asia. Topping the 2024 global rich list for cities is New York (119), followed by London (97). In Asia, Mumbai  India's financial capital  moved ahead with 92 billionaires, according to Hurun. Following close behind are Beijing (91) and Shanghai (87).

Top 10 cities with the most billionaires Rank City Number of billionaires 1 New York 119 2 London 97 3 Mumbai 92 4 Beijing 91 5 Shanghai 87 6 Shenzhen 84 7 Hong Kong 65 8 Moscow 59 9 New Delhi 57 10 San Francisco 52

Source: Hurun Research Institute

There are currently 3,279 billionaires globally, a 5% increase from 2023, the report showed. According to the country ranking, China still tops the list with 814 billionaires even though the country lost 155 billionaires from a year ago. The U.S. came in second with 800 billionaires while India came in third with 271. "China had a bad year," the research firm noted. "Wealth creation in China has gone through deep changes these last few years, with the wealth of billionaires from real estate and renewables down."

Top 10 countries with the most billionaires Rank Country Number of billionaires 1 China 814 2 United States 800 3 India 271 4 United Kingdom 146 5 Germany 140 6 Switzerland 106 7 Russia 76 8 Italy 69 9 France 68 10 Brazil 64

Source: Hurun Research Institute
Big U.S. tech companies such as Nvidia , Microsoft and Alphabet have benefited from the artificial intelligence buzz in markets for the past year. But many smaller firms along the global AI supply chain also stand to benefit. BofA said in a March 15 note that there's been a "booming" AI market with multiple AI solutions since the second half of 2023. Most chips are dependent on TSMC's production, with chip and integrated circuit designs being sourced globally or from Taiwan, and some components from Greater China, said BofA. "The scarcity of AI/computing suppliers helps higher value-added and bargaining power, esp. for costly AI products," BofA analysts wrote. The bank named various parts of the supply chain that stand to benefit from AI, and its top stocks in each category. Server original design manufacturers Global firms have worked with Taiwanese manufacturers for highly customized projects, such as AI graphics processing units, the bank noted. These are BofA's top picks among such manufacturers or suppliers: Quanta : The investment bank says it's the top original design manufacturer and has a diversified client base. It has worked with Google for over a decade, thanks to its ability to produce highly customized server design, BofA noted. Wistron : A major graphics processing unit baseboard supplier, according to the bank. With rising AI server applications and GPU supply, it expects the AI server GPU baseboard business to account for 3% to 6% of Wistron's total sales in 2024 and 2025. That's up from 1% in 2023. Foxconn Industrial Internet: BofA noted it's a key partner to Microsoft and Nvidia through its subsidiary Ingrasys. It also noted that Foxconn Industrial Internet has been supporting Microsoft's OpenAI for years. Hardware tech Hardware tech such as printed circuit boards are the upstream parts of the AI server supply chain. These materials or components are "always needed," BofA said. These are BofA's top picks in this space: Unimicron and NYPCB are ahead when it comes to tech and product development related to AI and high performance computing, BofA said. Unimicron, however, has been faster in ramping up AI-server related revenue, as is evident from its "proven track record" in producing printed circuit boards for Nvidia, according to the bank. Semiconductors BofA says chip design is getting more expensive, as it becomes more complex and the costs of developing the physical components grow. But because a more advanced technology is needed to build chips for AI applications, there's a "growing reliance" on companies with a "solid track record" for designing customized chips, the bank said. "In our view, finding trustable IP and design service providers has become more crucial in the AI era, as the overall R & D investment becomes costlier and customers (chip-designer) shy away from the risk of failure," BofA analysts wrote. "Overall, IP and design service represents a small part of the whole semiconductor market globally, but turns increasingly important since the chip performance is largely predicated on the quality of IP and chip-design." Against this backdrop, the bank named Taiwanese stocks Alchip and eMemory as key beneficiaries. BofA also named MediaTek , a leading fabless company in Asia that is an indirect beneficiary of AI server trends. The bank says it sees "strong upside" for MediaTek as it expands its customized chips to hyperscalers. In addition, its partnership with Nvidia in automotive AI should widen its AI opportunities, BofA noted.  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried arrives for a bail hearing at Manhattan Federal Court on August 11, 2023 in New York City. Michael M. Santiago | Getty Images

Heather Ferguson's son lost approximately $130,000 in cash when crypto exchange FTX went bankrupt in November 2022. At the time, Ferguson traveled to where her child was living to spend four days consoling him. Since touching bottom, however, he has shown "resilience," "confidence," and a "determination to meet life's challenges head on with renewed focus and vigor," Ferguson wrote in a note to U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan on Tuesday. Update: FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried sentenced to 25 years for crypto fraud, to pay $11 billion in forfeiture It helps that in January, her son was contacted by the entity overseeing the disbursement of FTX client funds and told that he would be refunded the full amount he was owed. "I am writing to convey my hope that Sam Bankman-Fried will be given a sentence in the range of 70 months for his role in the collapse of FTX," Ferguson wrote in her letter to the judge. "The hope that customer funds will be reimbursed in some measures mitigates the severity of Sam's guilt, and it seems to me that the length of his sentence should reflect this fact." Ferguson's letter is part of an eleventh hour push by the defense to appeal to Kaplan's sense of leniency as the judge gears up for Bankman-Fried's sentencing hearing on Thursday.

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In November, a jury of twelve found the former crypto executive guilty of all seven criminal counts against him, including wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud against FTX customers and against Alameda Research lenders; conspiracy to commit securities fraud and conspiracy to commit commodities fraud against FTX investors; and conspiracy to commit money laundering. That the jury was able to reach a unanimous verdict in just a few hours that FTX's ex-CEO stole $8 billion from customers of his now bankrupt crypto exchange suggests that they were truly convinced and that there were no holdouts that needed to be coaxed, Yesha Yadav, law professor and Associate Dean at Vanderbilt University, previously told CNBC.

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On Tuesday, the defense submitted three letters in support of Bankman-Fried, while prosecutors filed more than 50 letters of their own, bringing the total number of victim impact statements to 117. The question of whether FTX customers being made whole through bankruptcy should influence the court's decision over sentencing is a major point of contention. Earlier this month, federal prosecutors in Manhattan wrote in a memo to the court that Bankman-Fried should spend between 40 and 50 years in prison. "Even now Bankman-Fried refuses to admit what he did was wrong," the government wrote. Even as the bankruptcy estate promises to pay back customers in full, many of FTX's thousands of victims (reportedly up to a million) argue that their crypto stakes have been significantly undervalued by the exchange's new leadership team.

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Parents chime in

Ferguson was one of three concerned parents to write Kaplan, suggesting that Bankman-Fried's emotional and behavioral disorders be taken into account as part of his deliberations over sentencing. "Along the vein of mitigating factors, some mention should be made of Sam's ASD and the afflictive emotions that stemmed from his ADHD and his medications," Ferguson wrote. "These are relevant factors in his background which likely caused him to show poor judgment, but did not likely correlate with an intention to be malicious toward his clients." Bankman-Fried's psychiatrist, George Lerner, told Judge Lewis Kaplan in a letter in August that the former FTX CEO has a history of depression and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. ADHD is among the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children. "Additionally, there have been times when Mr. Bankman-Fried did not have access to the Emsam patch (typically when travelling/abroad) and exhibited symptoms of depression, including lethargy, anhedonia, low motivation, and increased ruminations," Lerner wrote. Without his medication, Lerner warned the judge, "Bankman-Fried will experience a return of his depression and ADHD symptoms and will be severely negatively impacted in his ability to assist in his own defense." At one point during Bankman-Fried's criminal trial last year, the defense team also argued that he was not receiving adequate access to prescribed medication, including Adderall, a treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. And when initially remanded to custody, lawyers for Bankman-Fried argued that their client had a "limited" and "dwindling" supply of Emsam, a transdermal patch for treating depression. Maria Centrella, the mother of a 34-year-old son with Asperger's Syndrome, also wrote to Judge Kaplan to share her experience raising a child on the Autism spectrum. "I have no opinion as to his guilt or innocence under the law, but do want to share with you my experiences with my son that hopefully might give you some pause to reflect on Sam's behavior and mental state leading up to and during the trial," wrote Centrella, who says that she was not familiar with Bankman-Fried's story until she watched Michael Lewis's "60 Minutes" interview, in which he shared anecdotes from shadowing Bankman-Fried as part of reporting a book about his life. "As he described Sam I saw my son and kept wondering why Asperger's never came up in the segment, because those of us knowledgeable about it, could see his behavior, his mannerisms  and his brilliance as huge indicators of him being on the spectrum," Centrella wrote. She went on to say that she reached out to Bankman-Fried's father, Joe, who confirmed that Sam had indeed been diagnosed as on the autism spectrum and that the court had been made aware. "I have no idea how familiar you are with Asperger's, particularly those who are out working and supporting themselves, but I can speak from experience that the mind of those on the spectrum works differently. Though I have never met Sam, I firmly believe that while he may be an MIT grad - he did not fully understand the scope of what was going on and did not have malicious intent," she wrote. Matt Kelly, who also has an autistic son and has worked as a special needs teacher in the UK, wrote a three paragraph letter to share his personal and professional observations that "might be of consideration when deciding a sentence." "Many of Sam's personality traits suggest some type of atypical neurological processes; whether this is a tendency to avoid eye contact, a habit of being unable to focus on one thing at a time, or a lack of emotional response in a situation where most people would show outward signs of strain and distress," wrote Kelly. "He has also witnessed his ex-partner and associates testify against him in court, and to a

person with unusual processing, this may have been confusing and upsetting," Kelly added. "I hope that account is taken of Sam's abnormal presentation in your sentencing, so that retribution is in proportion to the degree of fault, and that account is taken of which type of institution would be most appropriate in the case of someone like Sam."

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MIT roommate: He did communal laundry "on time"
Russian President Vladimir Putin at an expanded Prosecutor General's Office meeting on March 26, 2024, in Moscow. Contributor | Getty Images News | Getty Images

Russia has been firming up its narrative that Ukraine was behind a deadly terrorist attack in Moscow last week, a move that was widely expected by political experts who said Russia would likely use the tragedy to further domestic support for the war against Ukraine. It's gone one step further, however, with senior Kremlin officials claiming that the West conspired with Ukraine to carry out the attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue last Friday in which gunmen killed 140 people. An investigation into the attack is ongoing, but the latest, outlandish accusations give Moscow a problem: it now has to find the evidence to back up its unsubstantiated claims. What's particularly awkward for the Kremlin is that the Islamic State militant group has already claimed responsibility for the attack. Eight suspects, mostly nationals of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, have been charged with terrorism offences and remanded in custody ahead of trial. "Going forward, it is important to watch whether Russian investigators present any evidence of any alleged Ukrainian/Western involvement," said Andrius Tursa, Central and Eastern Europe advisor at consultancy Teneo. "In such a case, Putin would likely have to follow through on his promises to punish those responsible for the attack, which could escalate the war in Ukraine and heighten tensions with the West," he said. Ukraine denies any involvement in the attack, saying it was "absolutely predictable" that Moscow would look to blame it. The White House said that Ukraine had "no involvement whatsoever" in the attack and that any claim to the contrary was "Kremlin propaganda." The U.K.'s foreign secretary, David Cameron, said on social media platform X "Russia's claims about the West and Ukraine on the Crocus City Hall attack are utter nonsense."

Russia doubles down

The propaganda has certainly been ramped up in the aftermath of the attack, during which gunmen entered the Crocus City Hall venue, shot concertgoers and set fire to the auditorium. A raft of senior Russian officials and pro-Kremlin media have alleged this week that Ukraine, the U.K. and U.S. somehow coordinated attack in a bid to destabilize Russia and sow panic.

On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin conceded that "radical Islamists" had carried out the attack but insisted that Ukraine and its Western backers were linked to it, without presenting evidence. Then on Tuesday, the head of Russia's Federal Security Service, Alexander Bortnikov, claimed that the U.S., U.K. and Ukraine were behind the attack, saying it was beneficial to Western intelligence services and Kyiv as it sowed panic in Russian society. He also did not present evidence to back his claim.

Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev and President Vladimir Putin during a meeting with the BRICS countries' senior officials in charge of security matters at the Kremlin in Moscow on May 26, 2015. Sergei Karpukhin | AFP | Getty Images

Close Putin ally and nationalist ideologue Nikolai Patrushev  the secretary of Russia's Security Council who's in charge of issuing guidance and policy proposals on national security issues  was also asked by Russian reporters whether Ukraine or the Islamic State group was behind the attack. "Of course Ukraine," Patrushev answered, according to a Google-translated article from news agency RIA Novosti. On Wednesday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova claimed the U.S. initial rejection of any Ukrainian involvement was suspicious and said the Islamic State group was created by the West. Yet, the Kremlin's press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, refused to comment on the alleged Ukraine link, or to state how Russia would respond if it confirmed Ukraine's involvement. Peskov told CNBC on Wednesday that the Kremlin is awaiting the results of an investigation before it comments, stating in an email: "An investigation is underway. The final version has not yet been announced."

Political analysts say Moscow appears desperate to deflect attention from the fact that its intelligence services failed to spot or prevent the Moscow terror plot, and ignored a warning from U.S. intelligence several weeks ago that an attack could be imminent. "Russian President Vladimir Putin and other senior Kremlin officials appear to be struggling to maintain a consistent rhetorical line about the Crocus City Hall attack, indicating that the Kremlin has not fully figured out how to reconcile its information operations with the reality of its intelligence and law enforcement failure," analysts at the Institute for the Study of War noted Tuesday. "Putin and other senior officials have not fully coalesced around the false narrative that Ukraine somehow conducted the March 22 attack," the ISW said, noting that the "oscillation between blaming Ukraine outright one day and then avoiding the issue the following day suggests that the Kremlin has not yet established a templated line on how to discuss the attack, likely partially as a result of the shock felt by the Russian elite in its aftermath."

Conspiratorial thinking

Despite the claim by IS to have carried out the attack, high-profile Russian media commentators have said the massacre was not typical of IS terrorist attacks, citing the fact the attackers were not wearing suicide belts and did not appear to be religious fanatics. According to the Tass news agency, RT Editor-in-Chief Margarita Simonyan, who is among those questioning the attackers' identities, posted a video on her Telegram channel in which one of the suspects claimed he was offered 500,000 rubles ($5,400) to carry out the attack, insinuating the motive was financial rather than ideological. The suspects appeared in court earlier this week looking beaten and bruised. It's unclear whether the reported video was filmed under duress. Russian media personalities have also parroted the line that the attackers tried to flee toward Ukraine, a line disputed, unusually, by Putin's close ally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who said the attackers originally fled toward Belarus but had been forced to change direction, toward Ukraine, because of Belarus' enhanced security measures.

This combination of pictures created on March 24, 2024 shows (Clockwise from top L) Rachabalizoda Saidakrami, Dalerdjon (alternatively spelled Dalerdzhon) Barotovich Mirzoyev, Muhammadsobir Fayzov and Shamsidin Fariduni suspected of taking part in the attack of a concert hall that killed 137 people, the deadliest attack in Europe to have been claimed by the Islamic State jihadist group, sitting inside the defendant cage as he waits for his pre-trial detention hearing at the Basmanny District Court in Moscow overnight March 24 and 25, 2024. Tatyana Makeyevaolga Maltseva | Afp | Getty Images

Analysts say that, despite the discrepancies and anomalies in the narrative, the Kremlin is unlikely to retreat from its false claim of Ukrainian and Western involvement in the massacre. "Such conspiratorial thinking in Russia, sadly, is something that has been rather endemic to society there since the collapse of the Soviet Union, and is something which isn't going to go away and Putin will seek to feed on this," Max Hess, fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute and author of "Economic War: Ukraine and the Global Conflict Between Russia and the West," told CNBC on Wednesday. "The Kremlin is not going to back away from this conspiratorial view that, 'even it was Islamists that carried out the attack, it was the CIA or some other foreign agencies that ordered it together with the Ukrainians,'" he added.

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By Casey Lartigue Jr.

I experienced a familiar yet profound moment two weeks ago  welcoming a recently accepted student to the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE). This simple act reminded me of the numerous times I've been part of committees or had roles where I've had the privilege of inform individuals of receiving a scholarship, fellowship or admission.

During 19992004, I was an active volunteer on the Young Executive Board of the Washington Scholarship Fund. There were many ways to volunteer, but my favorite was being a committee member calling low-income parents to let them know a child had been awarded a partial scholarship. The responses were usually screams and shouts of "Hallelujah!" and "Praise the Lord!" as well as various expletives used to express joy.

Out of the many calls, I will never forget the single dad who threatened violence against me if I was joking about his daughter receiving a partial scholarship. I had been the main person to walk him through the application process, and he considered me to be a mentor although he had more worldly experiences and challenges. Before we lost touch, he told me more than once that the direction of his daughter's life had been changed.

I enjoyed making those calls and would spend hours doing so. It wasn't always great news. In some cases, the families were in such unstable situations that we couldn't reach them to give them the news. That became a lesson learned for me as I sought backup ways to contact them.

More recently, it has been joyful in my work with Freedom Speakers International to welcome North Korean refugees into our community. More than 500 North Korean refugees have studied English, public speaking and career development with us.

Out of many memorable cases was a North Korean refugee who attended our orientation even though she was on our waiting list. Another applicant dropped out at the last minute, so the eager North Korean refugee was able to join. When she had a chance to speak during the matching session with volunteers, she explained how important this opportunity was for her. She had attempted suicide after her family had been captured in China after she was featured in a Korean-language article. She had been struggling with life in general before she learned about us. She felt it was a life-changing moment, and she was one of our most determined students.

I am reflecting on those cases after I recently had my status upgraded by the Harvard Graduate School of Education so I could make calls as an approved Alumni Admissions Ambassador.

When HGSE asked if I would be willing to call an incoming student, I said I could handle three or four. Two weeks ago, I had an incredible Zoom call with a student who will be starting at HGSE this September. After that talk, I connected her with my former advisor and mentor, who led the charge for me to be admitted to HGSE long ago. I keep that professor updated about my activities so she can celebrate the decision she made to support my application.

When I join organizations or causes, I typically join the welcoming or celebratory committee, or I create one. Talking with people at that key moment reminds me of my previous successes and also inspires me to create more opportunities for people to have celebrations.

I celebrate success, personal fulfillment, even participation trophies and other things that celebrate life, achievement and effort. Not everyone agrees with me and that's fine.

During an international seminar last year, a North Korean refugee praised me as her "life mentor" and said I had changed her life. The South Korean professor who was moderator of the panel grumbled in a final statement about the "danger" of mentoring relationships being unbalanced.

The South Korean professor's comment could have been a misunderstanding, misinterpretation, a summation of his own failed mentoring experiences, or perhaps an ill-conceived attempt at humor. Over the years, I have heard such comments from people who don't understand what a compliment it is, as a mentor, to have people seek you out for counsel and to have something worth celebrating because of the relationship.

In a 2015 Korea Times column, I wrote about Leonard E. Read (18981983), founder of the Foundation for Economic Education, discussing different levels of leadership. He was advising advocates of economic freedom to aim for a level of excellence "which will inspire others to seek him as a tutor."

Nine years ago when I wrote that, I said I had not reached that level of leadership of which Read spoke, but I was starting to see signs because more people were reaching out to me for mentoring and counsel. I now mentor two students in the Harvard Graduate School of Education's Student-Alumni Mentoring Initiative. Last week, I was matched as the mentor for a student in the HGSE First-Generation Student Organization.

Not only do I still have individuals reaching out to me for mentoring and counseling, but even a top university like Harvard University has me serving in various roles. It isn't as thrilling as 20 years ago when I was making calls to low-income families, shouting "Hallelujah!" and "Praise the Lord!" Still, it is inspiring to be part of the welcoming party for people striving for and achieving their goals.



Casey Lartigue Jr. (CJL@alumni.harvard.edu) is the co-founder of Freedom Speakers International with Lee Eun-koo and co-author with Han Song-mi of her memoir "Greenlight to Freedom.








This Asian country has one of the longest-lived populations in the world. Koh Sze Kiat | E+ | Getty Images

Singapore is the world's latest "blue zone"  defined as a place where people live longer and healthier lives. "Singapore has ... the highest health-adjusted life expectancy in the world. So whatever Singapore did, it worked at producing the longest, healthiest life on the planet," Dan Buettner, who coined the term "blue zones" told CNBC Make It. Blue zones are places that have 10 times more centenarians compared to the U.S. on a per capita basis. The five original blue zones are: Ikaria (Greece), Okinawa (Japan), Nicoya (Costa Rica), Sardinia (Italy) and Loma Linda (United States)  but Singapore is on Buettner's new list, dubbed "blue zone 2.0." While the original blue zones came about by natural circumstances, blue zones 2.0 are man-made. "The old blue zones are disappearing because they're becoming Americanized," Buettner said. "Mechanization is replacing physical activity and technology is disconnecting people from face-to-face interactions." In 2004, Buettner joined forces with National Geographic and the National Institute of Aging to try to "reverse engineer" longevity. The team identified parts of the world where people were living measurably longer lives, then worked to find out why people in such communities lived longer.

Buettner and his team identified the "Power 9"  core factors that represent the habits of the world's healthiest and longest-living people. These nine principles are: moving naturally in everyday life; having purpose; keeping routines to de-stress; stop eating when 80% full; eating more plant-based; consuming alcohol moderately and regularly; being part of a community; keeping loved ones close; and being surrounded by people with healthy habits. Singapore is an "engineered longevity hotspot," Buettner previously said. Here are some drivers of wellness built into the fabric of Singapore's policy.

Walk, don't ride

While people in many parts of the world drive from place to place, most Singaporeans walk  but this is usually out of necessity, rather than for the purpose of exercising. "Singapore, I think is brilliantly taxing automobiles, taxing gasoline, taxing through the use of roads ... and then invested hugely in walkability and bikeability and public transportation," Buettner told CNBC. "That's not just a coincidence, that is very good planning ... as a result, you drive people out from behind the steering wheel, onto their feet," he added.

It begins with the realization that their people are their most valuable resource... It doesn't happen overnight. It's an ethos which creates a lens through which they look at policy. Dan Buettner Author, The Complete Blue Zones: Lessons From the Healthiest Places on Earth

In order to buy a car in Singapore, you must first get a license to own a car, the COE or certificate of entitlement, which can cost more than the car itself. For comparison, as of March, the listed price for a Toyota Camry Hybrid in Singapore is 209,888 Singapore dollars (approx. $155,800). In the U.S., it is listed for a fraction of the price at $28,855.

Keep loved ones close

Research shows that people in blue zones tend to prioritize their loved ones and keep them nearby. This is seen in Singapore's policy known as the Proximity Housing Grant that financially incentivizes people to live with, or near their parents and children. "Instead of warehousing old people in a retirement home, as we do in the United States, the older people there  they stay engaged with the family. More often, they get better care from the family, so this is all favoring the life expectancy of older people," Buettner said.

Sense of belonging

Belonging to a faith-based community can correlate with longer life-expectancy, the research found. "All but five of the 263 centenarians we interviewed belonged to some faith-based community," according to Buettner. "Research shows that attending faith-based services four times per month will add 4-14 years of life expectancy." Almost 80% of adult Singaporeans are religiously affiliated, according to the Pew Research Center. Also, a 2014 Pew Research study ranked the city-state as the most religiously diverse country in the world.

Opt for healthy habits

Singapore has done well in making "healthy food cheaper and more accessible than junk food," said Buettner. The country has created incentives for food establishments to provide healthier options. Healthier options such as brown rice and wholegrains are being promoted by the Health Promotion Board. The health ministry has also created a labeling system that shows residents which food stalls have healthier options. Smoking has been made "difficult, unattractive and expensive," Buettner said. "Singapore has done a good job with the look of cigarette packs, with those pictures of mouth cancer ... they were one of the first countries to tax cigarettes."

Accessible health care

Singaporeans enjoy universal health care which means residents have access to quality medical care, including health services such as prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care. The government has worked to create policies that subsidize health-care costs. "In America here, health care is enormously expensive and inefficient at producing health because the priorities that govern policy are economic," Buettner said "The agenda of Lee Kuan Yew and his colleagues was different. They were trying to actually make sure people stayed healthy, rather than make money off of people," he added, referring to Singapore's founding father who was the country's first prime minister.

Strict laws
Even as the market trades near its highs, these three stocks could have even more room for upside, according to a popular chart pattern favored by technical analysts as a bullish indicator. This technical indicator is known as a "golden cross," when a stock's 50-day moving average (DMA) crosses over its 200-day moving average. Investors view a golden cross as a bullish indicator of positive momentum continuing into the longer term. Two of the following three names in the S & P 500 about to form a golden cross pattern are oil companies. Energy is the best-performing sector within the broad market index in March, up more than 8% this month. Exxon Mobil has jumped nearly 9% month to date through Tuesday's close, as the energy sector revs higher. The company's 50-DMA is currently at 104.58, just under its 200-DMA of 106.27. More than half of the analysts covering Exxon have issued a buy or a strong buy rating on the stock, according to LSEG. The consensus price target suggests shares gaining more than 9% from their current level. The company is currently in a dispute with Chevron over assets in oil-rich Guyana . Year to date, Exxon is up roughly 14%. The other oil company close to forming a golden cross is Occidental Petroleum . Occidental has a 50-DMA of 59.65, slightly lower than its 20-DMA of 60.94. To be sure, analysts are mostly sticking to the sidelines on the stock. Two-thirds of those covering the company rate it a hold, and the average price target implies upside potential of about 4%. Occidental has gained nearly 5% in March, lagging the overall energy sector during the period. The stock is up 6% in 2024. The final stock nearing a golden cross formation is Genuine Parts . The stock's 50-DMA stands at 146.61, while its 200-DMA is 147.18. Wall Street isn't so sure about the auto replacement parts company, however. Eight out of 13 analysts covering the stock give it a hold rating, and the stock is already trading 0.3% above its average price target. Genuine Parts has added 2.2% this month, and it's up more than 10% year to date.
TikTok has launched a $2.1 million advertising campaign with a clear message for senators in tough reelection fights this year: Block the House bill that could effectively ban the app in the United States.

"Think about the 5 million small business owners that rely on TikTok to provide for their families," one purported TikTok user says in the ad. "To see all of that disappear would be so sad," says another apparent user.

The company has reserved television ad space in the battleground states of Nevada, Montana, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Ohio, according to data from AdImpact.

All five states are represented by vulnerable Senate Democrats, each of whom is running for another six-year term.

Other states that will see the new TikTok ads include New York, Massachusetts and Minnesota, according to the ad buy data.

The Big Apple and Beantown are key ad markets for reaching young people and journalists. Minnesota is the home state of Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar, one of TikTok's fiercest critics in Congress. Klobuchar is also up for reelection this year.

The ads started running on Wednesday, with the buy set to end end either April 14 or April 28, depending on where the spots are airing, according to the data.

One of the new ads obtained by CNBC purports to show TikTok users warning their target audiences of how much would be lost if TikTok were banned.

"It's gonna affect a lot of people's livelihoods," says a sad-looking woman.
Former President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at 40 Wall Street on March 25, 2024 in New York City.

Donald Trump on Wednesday again targeted on social media the daughter of the judge in his upcoming criminal hush money trial  one day after that judge imposed a gag order limiting what Trump can say about the case.

Trump, in a Truth Social screed, slammed New York Supreme Court Judge Juan Merchan as a "hater" and repeated his call for the judge to recuse himself from the case.

Trump pointed to Merchan's daughter's work in progressive politics, and a social media account that he claims is hers, as evidence that it is "completely impossible" for him to get a "fair trial."

Merchan's daughter "represents Crooked Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Adam 'Shifty' Schiff, and other Radical Liberals, [and] has just posted a picture of me behind bars, her obvious goal," Trump claimed.

The posts marked Trump's second day in a row highlighting Merchan's daughter's role as a president at Authentic Campaigns, a Democratic political consulting firm. The firm touts its work for clients including President Joe Biden, whom Trump is campaigning against, and for other Democratic groups and politicians.

"Maybe the Judge is such a hater because his daughter makes money by working to 'Get Trump,' and when he rules against me over and over again, he is making her company, and her, richer and richer," Trump wrote. "How can this be allowed?"

Trump attorney Todd Blanche declined to comment on Trump's posts in light of the gag order, which restricts him from making certain statements about "family members of any counsel or staff member."

The posts extended Trump's stream of attacks against Merchan that began after the judge set an April 15 trial date in the hush money case. Trump is charged with 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels.

Trump's latest attacks on Merchan's daughter went further than his past comments by claiming she "just posted" a picture of him behind bars.
A man walks in Zaryadye park in front of the Kremlin's Spasskaya tower and St Basil's cathedral during the sunset in downtown Moscow on April 19, 2022. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP) (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)

The Kremlin refused to comment Tuesday on whether it believed there was a link between the Ukrainian government and the gunmen who killed 139 people in a terrorist attack on a Moscow concert hall last Friday.

Asked during a call with reporters whether there was a direct link between Ukraine and the "radical Islamists" that were behind the attack, as President Vladimir Putin described the suspects on Monday, Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov said he had "nothing to add to what has already been said on this topic."

"As for whether it is possible to say 'one way or another': you can say it any way you want. And observers and analysts can probably afford this. But (...) while the investigation is underway, the official authorities cannot afford to do any statements on this matter," Peskov told reporters, news agency Interfax reported.

"Although I recommend that you very carefully reread President Putin's statements that he made over the last two days. In this context, they are very important," Peskov said.

During a conference call with Kremlin officials on Monday, President Putin said the attack was carried out by "radical Islamists" but again claimed that there was a link to Ukraine, or a "Kyiv trace," as Moscow has described it and that U.S. intelligence dismissing any link was unconvincing.

Russia has presented no evidence that there was any involvement by Ukraine and Kyiv itself vehemently denies any role in the deadly attack on concertgoers.

Eight suspects, nationals of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, have been remanded in custody and charged with terrorism offenses ahead of trial.

 Holly Ellyatt
Nationwide, women outearn men in just 42 U.S. cities out of an analysis of some 1,800 cities, according to a new GoBankingRates report using Census Bureau data.

The report considers the median annual earnings for men and women in cities with a population of at least 20,000 people.

Of locations, these are the 10 top-paying cities where women outearn men:

Bowie, Md.: Women earn a median $81,011 a year Clinton, Md.: Women earn a median $71,123 a year Fort Washington, Md.: Women earn a median $69,983 a year Oakland, Calif.: Women earn a median $68,260 a year Goleta, Calif.: Women earn a median $65,030 a year Laurel, Md.: Women earn a median $65,008 a year Monrovia, Calif.: Women earn a median $62,016 a year Hackensack, N.J.: Women earn a median $60,237 a year Newark, Del.: Women earn a median $58,769 a year Chamblee, Ga.: Women earn a median $58,590 a year

In each of these cities, women outearn men by a share of .14% to 18.95% of what men earn.

Across the U.S., women are paid just 84 cents for every $1 paid to a man, on average.

Many of the top cities with gender parity and higher earning power for women are near Washington D.C., where government jobs have more transparent pay practices and, perhaps relatedly, greater gender pay parity, though a gap still exists.

At No. 4, Oakland, Calif., is the largest city on the list, with a population of nearly 360,000 people. There, women earn a median of $68,200 per year, just outpacing men's earnings of $68,100 per year.

The lack of a gender pay gap in these cities isn't, on its own, good news for women's earning power.

"Our findings show salaries are relatively low in the select few cities where women are outearning men," Andrew Murray, lead data researcher at GoBankingRates, tells CNBC Make It. "Several of the cities that made our list have median earnings for women around $30,000 to $40,000."

"This is particularly noteworthy considering that there tends to be less of a gender pay gap among lower-wage workers, especially minimum-wage workers, compared to higher-end, hourly workers," Murray adds.

Women, and particularly women of color, are overrepresented in minimum wage jobs. Research shows raising the federal minimum wage would have an outsized impact on reducing poverty rates for women and the children of women-led households.

Overall, the No. 1 city where women's earning rates are highest compared to men's is Jacksonville, N.C, but actual salary figures are much lower. There, women earn roughly 20% more than men, or $33,000 a year compared with men who earn roughly $27,000 a year  lower than the national median salary of $59,540 per year.

In the case of Jacksonville, the city "has a high government employee base both for the military and Department of Defense which could be contributing to more equitable pay," Murray says.

Overall, women earn the most in five U.S. cities, GoBankingRates notes: Los Altos, Calif. ($150,000 median salary); Saratoga, Calif. ($140,000 median salary); McLean, Va. ($137,000 median salary); San Carlos, Calif. ($137,000 median salary) and Wellesley, Mass. ($130,000). However, men outearn women in each of these cities by a rate of 60% to 70%.

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.
Malaysia is considering extending its ongoing 50 billion ringgit ($10.6 billion) rail project closer to its border with Thailand, as it seeks to reduce economic competition with its Southeast Asian neighbor.Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the government is open to connecting Malaysia s East Coast Railway Link to Thailands existing or planned rail infrastructure. Thailand plans to build two ports to bypass Malaysias most lucrative shipping route.The relationship between Malaysia and Thailand is not a zero-sum game, Loke told Malaysias parliament on Wednesday. Both countries face political economic challenges that can be tackled together, and one area of cooperation is cross-border connectivity, he added.The ECRL rail project, which will connect Malaysias west and east coasts, is expected to be completed by 2027. Its last stop under the current alignment is Kota Bharu, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away from the Thai border.Thailands planned $29 billion Chumphon-Ranong Land Bridge project will see the country build two new ports at both of its coasts  providing a new trade route that potentially bypasses the Malacca Strait, one of the worlds busiest and home to three major Malaysian ports.Loke said that the impact of the land bridge is expected to be limited to Malaysias northernmost major port in Penang, with its two biggest ports in Klang and Johor set to be unscathed.This project might take 15 years to implement  if it is started, he said.
Israel has called its negotiators back from Doha after deeming the mediated truce talks on Gaza at "a dead end" because of demands put forth by Hamas, news agency Reuters quoted a senior Israeli offiial as saying.The official is close to the Mossad spymaster, who is heading the talks, the agency reported. The official has accused Yahya Sinwar, Hamas' Gaza leader, of sabotaging the diplomacy "as part of a wider effort to inflame the war over Ramadan," Reuters reported.Israel and Hamas had stepped up negotiations, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, on a six-week suspension of Israel's offensive in exchange for the release of 40 of the 130 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.Hamas has sought to parlay any deal into an end to the fighting and witdhrawal of Israeli forces, Reuters reported, adding that Israel has ruled it out, saying it will eventually resume efforts to dismantle the military and governance capabilities of Hamas.Hamas also wants the thousands of Palestinians who fled from Gaza city and its surrounding areas to the south to be allowed to return to the north.The Israeli official said that Israel had agreed to double the number of Palestinians it would release in exchange for the hostages to 700-800 prisoners and allow some displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Tuesday that Hamas had made "delusional" demands, which it said showed the Palestinians were not interested in a deal.In Tel Aviv, a crowd of around 300 family members of hostages and their supporters gathered outside the Israeli defence headquarters demanding a deal be done to release the captives. Some locked themselves inside cages in protest, holding placards with photos of their loved ones. "No price is too high," one of the signs said.Hamas has accused Israel of stalling at the talks while it carries out its military offensive.The discussions in Doha are continuing as Palestinians in Gaza face severe shortages of food, medicine and hospital care, and concerns grow that famine will take hold.
Thailand's lower house of parliament on Wednesday passed a marriage equality bill at the final reading, in a landmark step that moves the country closer to becoming the third territory in Asia to legalise same-sex unions.

The bill now requires approval from the Senate and endorsement from the king before it becomes law. It had the support of all of Thailand's major parties and was passed by 400 of the 415 lawmakers present, with 10 voting against it.

"We did this for all Thai people to reduce disparity in society and start creating equality," Danuphorn Punnakanta, chairman of the parliamentary committee on the draft bill, told lawmakers ahead of the reading.

"I want to invite you all to make history."

The passing of the bill marks a significant step towards cementing Thailand's position as one of Asia's most liberal societies on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, with openness and free-wheeling attitudes coexisting with traditional, conservative Buddhist values.

Thailand has long been a draw for same-sex couples, with a vibrant LGBT social scene for locals and expatriates, and targeted campaigns to attract LGBT travellers.

The bill could take effect within 120 days of royal approval. Thailand would follow Taiwan and Nepal in becoming the first places in Asia to legalise same-sex unions.

The legislation has been more than a decade in the making, with delays due to political upheaval and disagreement on what approaches to take and what should be included in the bill.

The Constitutional Court had in 2020 ruled Thailand's current marriage law, which only recognises heterosexual couples, was constitutional, recommending legislation be expanded to ensure rights of other genders.

Parliament in December approved four different draft bills on same-sex marriage in the first reading and tasked a committee to consolidate those into a single draft.
Kakao Mobility, Korea's top taxi-hailing service operator, said Wednesday it has reappointed its CEO for another year, despite the state financial watchdog's recommendation to replace him amid allegations of accounting fraud.

In a general shareholders' meeting, Kakao Mobility voted to keep Ryu Geung-seon as its CEO for one more year, citing the necessity for consistent leadership in the face of ongoing challenges.

The move came as the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) has imposed a combined 9 billion-won ($6.68 million) fine on the company on charges of inflating its sales and recommended Ryu step down from his position.

The punishment will be finalized at a panel meeting of the state financial regulator.

Kakao Mobility has been working to restructure its membership system amid public blame for unfair practices using its market dominance in running its sprawling ride-hailing platform, Kakao T.

Its parent company, Kakao, has also been at the center of public criticism since last year over suspicions of unfair business practices and the moral hazard of its executives, including stock manipulation allegations. (Yonhap)
The Welcome Center serves as the point of entry to the Springs Rescue Mission campus, which will increase safety while creating a safe space for men and women who are experiencing homelessness. In addition to the port of entry, the 3,000-square-foot Welcome Center has a mailroom for people to receive mail and a kennel for pets. (Gazette file)
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Conglomerates eye mega investments to foster new growth engines

By Lee Min-hyung

LG Group revealed plans to invest 100 trillion won ($74.21 billion), while Hyundai Motor Group pledged to invest 68 trillion won into new growth businesses, according to the two conglomerates, Wednesday.

Their plans reflect a determined effort to maintain a competitive edge in the increasingly challenging technological landscape marked by escalating threats of trade protectionism and geopolitical instability.

Under its ambitious drive, LG Group has unveiled an extensive investment roadmap for the next five years. It plans to allocate 100 trillion won ($74.21 billion) in Korea by 2028, strategically positioning itself to secure competitive advantages in next-generation growth sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, batteries, and vehicle components. This substantial investment represents 65 percent of the group's total global investment.

LG aims to solidify its core competitiveness in key burgeoning industries and transform them into the company's primary growth drivers moving forward, LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo said in a written greeting message during the groups regular shareholders meeting.

Of particular significance is LG's allocation of 55 percent of the investment toward enhancing its research and development capabilities, with a particular focus on developing key materials and building smart factories.

The LG chief also underscored plans to make larger investments in next-generation cash-cow sectors, including AI, biotechnology, and clean technology.

We will transform them into the key pillars of our next major business portfolios, he said. Koo also highlighted LG's commitment to fostering group-wide collaboration to seek out future business opportunities, despite the challenges posed by the current economic slowdown and escalating geopolitical uncertainties.

On the same day, Hyundai Motor also shared its plan to invest 68 trillion won by 2026, while directly creating 80,000 jobs domestically. The automaker's objective is to enhance its global footprint in future mobility through aggressive investments in areas such as electrification, software-defined vehicles (SDV), autonomous driving, and robotics.

The investment averages 22.7 trillion won annually for the next three years, marking a nearly 30 percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, the automaker anticipates the investment to contribute to the creation of 118,000 jobs in the nation's vehicle component industry.

The worlds third-largest automaker in terms of sales will allocate 35.3 trillion won to enhance its overall research infrastructure and expand electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plants. The company also plans to spend 31.1 trillion won to reinforce its competitiveness in key growth areas, including SDVs, electrification and battery technologies.

By 2030, Hyundai Motor Group will expand its EV lineup to 31 models and increase annual EV production capacity in Korea to 1.51 million units, a spokesman for the automaker said. In the field of SDVs, Hyundai Motor and Kia are fully committed to realizing their group-wide vision for future mobility, seamlessly interconnected through innovative software solutions.

The group is poised to invest 4.6 trillion won into its Global Business Center (GBC) project, situated in Seoul's bustling commercial district of Samseong-dong. The project entails the construction of two 50-story skyscrapers, along with four additional buildings dedicated to cultural and convenience facilities.

After completion, the GBC is expected to attract a large number of tourists and create jobs as a core space in Seouls international complex, the official said.
Microsoft is sitting on top of the world right now, thanks to its lead in AI. Its the most valuable company on the planet, with a valuation of more than $3.2 trillion. Its rise was rocket-fueled by its investor relationship with OpenAI, the company that makes the wildly popular generative AI (genAI) chatbot ChatGPT. OpenAIs GPT large language model is also the basis for Microsoft Copilot, the genAI tool that Microsoft is building into just about every one of its products, from GitHub to Windows to Microsoft 365 and beyond.

Microsofts AI dominance appears insurmountable. But things can change quickly in tech. Google and Apple are in talks to embed Googles genAI tool Gemini into iPhones  a deal that, if it reaches fruition, could unseat Microsoft sooner than you think.

At the same time, Microsoft is moving with lightning speed to extend its AI lead, hiring the best AI minds in the business, furiously racing to launch improved versions of Copilot, and starting to monetize it.

Will Google and Apple topple Microsoft, or will Microsoft remain dominant in AI well into the foreseeable future? Lets look at the potential Apple-Google blockbuster deal, examine Microsofts latest moves, and mix in the biggest wild card of all  the use of antitrust law by the US government (and European governments) to take on the tech super-giants.

The potential Google-Apple AI blockbuster

Google and Apple are in talks to bring Googles genAI tool Gemini to the iPhone later this year, setting the stage for a blockbuster agreement that would shake up the AI industry, in the words of the Bloomberg article that first reported the news.

If anything, thats an understatement. Gemini is already built into Android phones made by Google and other device makers. If it were also on iPhones, Google would essentially have a monopoly on AI on mobile devices, shutting out Microsoft and OpenAI. The New York Times puts it this way: Virtually overnight, Google could have more consumers using its A.I. than its chief rival, OpenAI, which makes ChatGPT.

The deal would extend a longstanding Apple-Google relationship: Google already pays Apple $18 billion a year for its search engine to be the default on Apple devices.

The deal would do more than put Gemini into the hands of billions of people across the world, eclipsing Microsofts and OpenAIs user base. It would also help Google make Gemini more powerful very quickly. A genAI tool is only as good as the volume and quality of data on which its trained  and training is an ongoing process that constantly improves the tools power and effectiveness. With billions of people using Gemini every day, Google would likely be able to improve it more quickly than ChatGPT and Copilot can be improved.

If all this were to happen, it could be deja vu all over again for Microsoft. Decades ago, Microsoft had a worldwide near-monopoly on operating systems with Windows. It also released a mobile operating system  Pocket PC 2000  seven years before Apple released the iPhone. It seemed its operating system monopoly would last forever.

But iOS (and the iPhone hardware) was dramatically better than anything mobile Microsoft created, and Android was better as well. Microsofts OS dominance vanished as smartphones took the world by storm. The same thing could happen with AI if the Google-Apple deal comes to fruition  Gemini would eclipse ChatGPT and Copilot thanks to mobile.

Why Microsoft may still dominate AI

Even if the deal goes through, Microsoft could still dominate AI. It has a substantial lead in AI, and its not taking anything for granted. OpenAI has been quickly releasing new, more powerful versions of GPT  version 4 was released in 2023, and it looks as if a materially better version 5 will be available this summer. So ChatGPT and Copilot are constantly becoming more powerful.

In addition, Microsoft just hired Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of DeepMind, which was bought by Google in 2014 and which ultimately became Gemini. After Suleyman sold DeepMind, he founded another AI startup, Inflection AI, and Microsoft has hired not just Suleyman, but nearly the entire AI staff of Inflection, including its chief scientist Karen Simonyan. Microsoft now has the best AI talent in the world either on staff or working for OpenAI.

Microsoft has also been busy monetizing AI. Copilot is now built into the companys entire product line, offered as a fee-based add-on. Microsoft can plow that revenue back into research.

And, of course, its not a foregone conclusion that Google and Apple will make a deal. Even if they do, its not clear how well it will work.

The wild card: government regulators

Who comes out on top could ultimately be determined not by tech companies, but by the US government. Google and Apple are both fighting major federal antitrust lawsuits, and it wouldnt be surprising if their AI deal draws scrutiny as well. The feds could try to kill a deal before its even signed.

At the same time, Microsoft has its own antitrust AI problems. The FTC is said to be investigating Microsofts cozy relationship with OpenAI for potential antitrust violations, so Microsoft could lose the main reason it has an AI lead  its deal with OpenAI.

All three companies are facing antitrust investigations and suits in the EU and UK as well.

The results of those suits and investigations could well determine which company will dominate AI in the future. I wouldnt bet one way or the other on this one  too much is up in the air, including potential federal action. But we do know one thing: its going to be a wild ride, and not even ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini can predict the ultimate outcome.
The home appliance industry witnessed significant growth and transformation in recent years, driven by factors such as technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences and economic dynamics. In 2022, the global household appliance market surged to over $680 billion in sales, with the U.S. emerging as the largest market valued at about $58.5 billion. Haier Smart Home, a Chinese company, led the global earnings chart, amassing $35 billion in revenue. Experts project the entire worldwide market to grow beyond $900 billion by 2028, especially as smart home appliances grow in demand and popularity.

Key insights In 2022, the worldwide household appliance market was valued at over $680 billion. Jump to insight The U.S. is the largest household appliance market in the world, with an over $58 billion market size in 2022. Jump to insight Haier Smart Home, a Chinese household appliance company, earned the most among this sector of companies at around $35 billion in 2022. Jump to insight The household appliance market is expected to exceed $900 billion by 2028. Jump to insight California has the highest number of household appliance manufacturing businesses (59). Jump to insight

Household appliance industry market and manufacturing data Between 2024 and 2028, the value of the U.S. household appliances market is projected to increase by 12.81% to just under $70 billion. Globally, the market is valued at approximately $680 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach over $900 billion by 2028.

In 2023, the major household appliance manufacturing industry in the U.S. reached a market size of $26.3 billion. This market has grown, on average, by about 2.3% per year since 2018, increasing even faster than the overall U.S. economy. The largest segment of the household appliances market is major appliances, which includes refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines. Top home appliance manufacturers Six major manufacturers of home appliances around the world earned an excess of $10 billion in 2022. Haier Smart Home, a Chinese company, outearned all of the others with approximately $35 billion in revenue. The top home appliance manufacturers are: Haier Smart Home

LG, Whirlpool

Midea

BSH Home Appliances

Electrolux Many top home appliance makers are located in Europe (BSH Home Appliances: Germany, Electrolux: Sweden) and Asia (Midea and Haier Smart Home: China, LG: South Korea). The concentration of major industry players in these regions highlights their strength in the competitive global home appliance market. In the U.S., the top four companies in the industry are expected to hold 32% of the nations market's revenue in 2024. Factors like established brands, manufacturing scale and proximity to growing consumer markets help explain the dominance of companies headquartered in these areas. Some European companies have over a century of history and strong brand recognition globally  for example, German manufacturer Miele was founded in 1899 and over 120 years later, continues to be a high-performing and trusted brand.

Global buying trends and industry overview There are two major home and household appliances market segments. Major appliances include refrigerators and freezers, stoves and ovens, cookers, dishwashers, and clothes washers and dryers.

include refrigerators and freezers, stoves and ovens, cookers, dishwashers, and clothes washers and dryers. Small appliances consist of coffee makers, food processors and blenders, microwaves, and vacuum cleaners, to name a few. Compared to the rest of the world, the U.S. is the largest household appliances market. The total household appliances market in the United States reached a market revenue of over $58 billion in 2022. Major appliances made up over half of this revenue, at about $30 billion. Buying trends in household appliances can vary globally based on accessibility, culture and many other factors. A 2023 Global Consumer Survey by Statista found that over 90% of households in the U.S., UK, Russia, Italy, Turkey and Spain own cookers or ovens. Meanwhile, less than half of households in South Korea own cookers/ovens. The survey also found that more than three-quarters of households in Austria, Germany, France, Sweden and Spain own a coffee machine, but only 27% do so in South Africa.

U.S. buying and ownership trends U.S. households spent an average of $463 on major household appliances in 2021, up from $214 in 2013. For small appliances and other housewares, the average spending has been at or over $100 since at least 2013, reaching $143 in 2021. When asked which household appliances their household owns, the top two answers given by U.S. consumers were microwaves and refrigerators. Other commonly owned appliances included vacuums, cookers or ovens and washing machines, with an approximately 70% rate of household ownership. Small appliances, such as toasters, food processors, juicers and coffee machines, showed ownership rates over 60%. The smart appliances segment is rapidly expanding, with almost 17 million U.S. users in 2023. About 13% of U.S. households own a smart appliance. This is expected to develop into a larger segment with increasing shipments and the general increase in the presence of smart home devices in consumers homes. U.S. home appliance imports and exports Over a million home appliances are shipped in the U.S. every year. The U.S. is wholly a consumers market for home appliances  imports have grown almost 75% in the last decade, and the value of imports is north of seven times higher than the value of exports. In 2022, the U.S. imported nearly $41.7 billion worth of household appliances, up over $1 billion from the previous year, and this growth has been relatively steady.

Household appliance exports from the U.S. reached a record $7.5 billion in 2022, showing positive recovery after a decline in exports during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Household appliance retail market size In 2022, consumers around the world spent about $440 billion on major appliances, with nearly 900 million units shipped every year. More than 4.5 billion units worth of household appliances were sold around the world in 2023, as were 3.75 billion units of small appliances. The highest revenue-generating items in the household appliances industry are major kitchen appliances, small household appliances and major laundry appliances.

Currently, the U.S. household appliance store industry employs nearly 80,000 people across more than 13,000 businesses.

In the U.S., 2022 home appliance store sales came to about $20.6 billion but fell a little short compared to 2021's record-setting $21 billion. In the last five years, competition from big appliance retailers caused aggressive discounting, restricting profit. E-commerce also negatively affected the industry's growth, as many consumers took pandemic-related safety measures and purchased online. Impact of COVID-19 on the home appliance market At the start of the COVID-19 health crisis, manufacturers reduced production to match the diminishing demand for appliances, but due to the social distancing measures taken during the pandemic, many people stayed home and took on home improvement projects. The work-from-home setup further helped increase the demand for small home appliances. There was also a high demand for new homes, causing a boost in residential construction. These factors contributed to a spike in the demand for home appliances. However, the reduced home appliance production lessened the available supply in the market and caused longer lead times and price increases. In 2024, there are still supply chain issues going on, so the demand for home appliances remains high.

Household appliances industry comparison by state In 2021, there were a reported 350 household appliances industries in the U.S. accounting for a total of nearly $23 billion in retail sales. California boasts the highest number of household appliance manufacturing sites at 59, followed by Texas (32) and Tennessee (22).

The future of the home appliance industry The value of the household appliance market is expected to exceed $900 billion over the next four years. The demand for home appliances will continue to grow as unemployment rates drop and homeowners gain more disposable income for their home improvement projects. E-commerce and residential construction will also drive the household appliances market. Small household appliances are expected to exceed a revenue of $250 billion steadily over the next several years. A record $305.04 billion in small appliances is expected to be sold by 2028. The global presence of smart home devices in households is expected to increase to roughly 29% by 2027, with washing machines, refrigerators and air conditioning units expected to become the primary appliances sold in the smart appliances market.
New research from King's College London is shedding light on the significant mental health challenges faced by stroke survivors.

The research team found that stroke survivors are nearly three times more likely to experience depression compared to individuals without a history of stroke.

The study, conducted in the Lambeth and North Southwark boroughs of London, examined the incidence of depression among 6,600 stroke survivors.

Published in The Lancet Regional Health, Europe, the findings showed a striking prevalence of depression among stroke survivors, with nine out of ten cases occurring within five years of the stroke event.

Lead researcher Yanzhong Wang, a professor of Statistics in Population Health at King's College London, emphasized the prolonged impact of depression on stroke survivors, noting its adverse effects on mobility and mortality rates.

Wang pointed out the necessity of addressing mental health needs in stroke survivors, particularly as the U.K.'s aging population anticipates a surge in stroke cases.

"We know that depression can limit a stroke survivor's mobility including simple things as walking and holding objects and can also increase the risk of death," Wang explained, the Daily Mail reported.

The team learned through the study that 60% of stroke survivors would experience depression within two decades post-stroke, a stark contrast to the 22% prevalence among the general population.

Lu Liu, a Ph.D. candidate at King's College London and corresponding author of the study, highlighted the enduring nature of depression among stroke survivors and its implications for their quality of life and longevity.

"Quality of life is important for stroke survivors as there is evidence depressed survivors have a reduced survival rate," Liu said.

"There are many reasons why this could be, including disruptions to the survivor's social life, reduced physical ability and inflammatory disorders observed in depressed patients."

Despite post-stroke depression being a well-documented phenomenon associated with decreased functional ability and heightened mortality, the study showed distinctions between mild and severe depression.

Severe depression tends to manifest earlier after stroke, persists for longer durations and recurs more rapidly compared to milder forms.

Liu stressed the importance of providing sustained clinical attention to stroke survivors experiencing persistent depression beyond the one-year mark, citing the elevated risks associated with prolonged depressive episodes.

With approximately 1.3 million stroke survivors in the U.K. and an annual incidence of around 100,000 cases, the study underscored the pressing need for enhanced mental health support tailored to the unique challenges faced by stroke survivors in their post-stroke journey.
Social media platforms like TikTok are becoming unexpected sources for teenagers seeking information on mental health conditions. This trend raises concerns among educators about the accuracy of self-diagnoses and the potential consequences for their well-being.

According to guidance counselor Melissa Millington, students are increasingly claiming to have symptoms of various mental health disorders they learn about on TikTok, ranging from dissociative identity disorder to Tourette's syndrome and autism spectrum disorder. This self-diagnosis trend often leads to classroom disruptions and may prevent students from receiving proper support for genuine conditions.

A significant portion of students admit to using social media for self-diagnosis, with platforms like TikTok providing a vast array of mental health information. However, this information lacks professional oversight, potentially leading students to adopt inaccurate labels or seek inappropriate treatments.

Impact on mental health

The phenomenon is not limited to high schoolers; even elementary school students are now expressing awareness of mental health conditions thanks to TikTok. Concerns over the platform's influence on youth mental health have prompted discussions in the US House of Representatives about potential regulations.

Despite the risks, social media has contributed to destigmatizing discussions around mental health, allowing students to feel validated and supported. However, educators emphasize the importance of proper education alongside these discussions to prevent misconceptions.

Importance of media literacy

Educators are stepping in to teach students critical media literacy skills, encouraging them to verify sources and question the credibility of information found on social media. By engaging with students on the platforms they use, educators aim to guide them toward reliable resources and an accurate understanding of mental health. While social media presents challenges in mental health education, educators recognize its potential as a tool for reaching and supporting students.
Minority shareholders to determine fate of pharmaceutical firm

By Park Jae-hyuk

The Hanmi Pharmaceutical Group chairwoman and her daughter, who seek to merge the drug developer with OCI Group, a local chemical company, were neck and neck with their opponents, led by the chairwomans two sons, until moments before Thursdays merger showdown, according to industry officials, Wednesday.

Up until Wednesday, the two women and their supporters collectively held a 42.66 percent stake in Hanmi Science, the pharmaceutical firms holding company, while their opponents owned a 40.57 percent stake. As a result, minority shareholders with a combined 21 percent stake have been allowed to determine the fate of the merger at the annual general meeting of shareholders on Thursday.

The family feud broke out after Hanmi and OCI announced in January that they would merge via OCI Holdingss acquisition of a 27 percent stake in Hanmi Science and the Hanmi owner familys acquisition of a 10.4 percent stake in the holding company of OCI Group. Both business groups explained at that time that their merger would enhance their competitiveness in the global health care market.

However, Hanmi Chairwoman Song Young-sooks two sons  Lim Jong-yoon and Jong-hoon  opposed their mother, who is the wife of late founder Lim Sung-ki, who died in 2020. The Lim brothers, both of whom were dismissed on Monday from their posts as Hanmi Pharmaceutical presidents, even took legal action to put the brakes on the planned merger.

Amid the intensifying dispute, proxy advisers here and overseas were divided about whether Hanmi Sciences shareholders should support director nominees recommended by the chairwoman or those recommended by her sons.

Until last Saturday, the brothers were expected to defeat their mother and sister, as they won support from Hanyang Precision CEO Shin Dong-kuk, the late founders friend who holds a 12.25 percent stake in Hanmi Science.

On Tuesday, however, the Suwon District Court rejected an injunction request filed by the Lim brothers to prevent Hanmi Science from issuing new shares, which OCI Holdings will buy for the merger. The National Pension Service, which owns a 7.66 percent stake in Hanmi Science, also decided the same day to side with the chairwoman and her daughter, Lim Ju-hyun, who was promoted to Hanmi Science vice chairwoman from president on Wednesday.

The Lim brothers appealed against the court decision and claimed that they had limited opportunities to convince shareholders. They also denied their mothers claim that they have tried to sell their shares at higher prices to pay inheritance taxes, rather than protecting the pharmaceutical firm.

However, the chairwoman emphasized that her daughter is the only successor to the late founder, claiming that her sons have refused to work together to raise money to pay inheritance taxes.
At work, do you give it your all? Gosh, we hope not. Thats not sustainable. If you give it all this week, what will you do next week? Youll have nothing left.

Some people, however, really do give everything. They give it all today, and next week, we dont ask what theyll give because guess what, theyre dead. They gave up their lives to protect others. Now, their heroics live on in legend.

5 Chris Lucas vs. the Tornado In May 2011, a tornado landed in Joplin, Missouri, and this was a big one. It was a mile wide  thats the actual measurement, not just our way of saying it was huge  and would go on to be the deadliest tornado to hit the U.S. in over 60 years. At one Pizza Hut in Joplin, everyone inside saw the tornado approaching, but there was no way for them to identify what it was. It sure didnt look like a twister because it was (lets say this again) a mile wide, so it just looked like a giant wall. Pizza Hut This is what a Pizza Hut twister is supposed to look like. Manager Christopher Lucas knew the safest place for him and the 20 other people in the restaurant. It was the walk-in freezer, whose thick walls offered better protection than the buildings outer walls, which were basically made of popsicle sticks. He herded everyone into that freezer, where it became clear that this inner room wasnt going to offer very secure protection after all. Its door would not stay closed. So, Lucas decided he would keep it closed himself, from the outside, using a bungee cord. Quick bit of context for readers who think bungee cords are only for jumping off bridges: These cords are primarily meant for securing objects, which explains why one was handy in this Pizza Hut. Lucas managed to use the cord to keep the door shut  for a while. In the end, the storm pulled open the door, pulled him away with it, and got four others, too. The remaining people in the freezer lived. KHSB This is what the restaurant looked like afterward. Chairs were added back manually, we assume. Advertisement Lucas, 26, had recently been discharged from the Navy. He had a tattoo on his arm that read, Protector, Savior and Guardian. If you see some guy walking around with that inked on him, you might roll your eyes and think, Yeah, Im sure, but theres always a chance that the label is legit.

4 Miki Endo vs the Tsunami Two months before that tornado was a larger disaster in Japan, which is said to be the costliest natural disaster in history. Thats not in terms of death toll but in terms of literal cost, which totaled a quarter-trillion dollars. Between the initial earthquake and the massive tsunami that followed, the 2011 Tohoku disaster offered plenty of opportunities for people to die saving each other. Weve told you about one of these before, in which a firefighter warned the people in his village by climbing to a roof and ringing a bell by hand. U.S. Navy Do not ask for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for FLEE! Advertisement Something similar happened in Minamisanriku, a village that the tsunami almost totally wiped out. Minamisanriku had a disaster-readiness center, and staff headed there after the massive earthquake ended. A tsunami would surely follow, and the center needed to broadcast a warning message. Advertisement The broadcast office was on the second floor, which wasnt high enough to be safe from the incoming water. Most of the staff headed to the roof. But even the roof wasnt high enough, so mayor Jin Sato climbed a radio antenna to get still farther from the ground. Down in the broadcast room, 24-year-old Miki Endo stayed behind. She repeated a message, Please head to higher ground, which blared out in the streets over loudspeakers. Then the water rolled in, and the message abruptly stopped. Rsa/Wiki Commons The building was reduced to its skeleton, which has been preserved. Advertisement Initial reports said that half the towns population was missing following the tsunami. It turned out that around 85 percent of those missing people survived, but Endo didnt. Her body was found six weeks later.

3 Aleksandr Lelechenko vs the Meltdown That Tohoku tsunami also caused the famous partial meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear plant. A group of workers, initially dubbed the Fukushima 50, stayed behind to work at stabilizing the place, and some of them surely thought this was a suicide mission. In the end, though two other workers had died when the tsunami initially struck, this mission didnt turn out to be as dangerous as people had feared. Later, hundreds of retirees also volunteered to help, figuring itd be better to risk themselves than to risk younger people with more to lose. It appears that the radiation killed none of these retirees either, if only because none would live long enough for cancer to set in. Advertisement Advertisement Plant manager Masao Yoshida did die of cancer, but this happened so quickly that something else must have caused it. That sounds like were joking or mocking the official account, but were serious. A blast of radiation doesnt give you cancer in a matter of days, which is how long it took Yoshida to be diagnosed. It could give you radiation sickness, which could kill you in far less time, but cancer like that is presumed to have started earlier. via Wiki Commons Hes still a hero, just not one killed by his sacrifice. Those volunteers surely remind you of volunteers at a more serious nuclear incident: Chernobyl. Lets zoom in on just one of these Chernobyl workers, who, in addition to sacrificing himself for the country and/or world, sacrificed himself for others at the plant. Aleksandr Lelechenko was the deputy head of the plants electric workshop. He was 50 years old and  like those Fukushima senior citizens  thought he made more sense as a sacrifice than younger workers. So, after he completed a mission into the bowels of the plant to shut off the hydrogen before it could explode too hard, he turned around and went back in. Then he headed down a third time, figuring he should kill himself good and properly instead of giving multiple workers merely a high chance of dying. kpi.ua And once you have 2,000 rads, a thousand more really makes no difference. Advertisement They moved him to a medical center in Pripyat, where they injected him with Rad-Away, or did whatever it is you do to someone whos been wading in radioactive goo. Then he went back to the plant to toil away for some hours more. He died within 10 days, of course (from radiation sickness, not of cancer).

2 Liviu Librescu vs the Shooter The Virginia Tech shooting of 2007  still the deadliest school shooting ever  happened to occur on Holocaust Remembrance Day. Among the dead was a survivor of the Holocaust, Liviu Librescu. He lived in Romania during World War II, during which he was moved first to a camp, then to a ghetto. In the 1970s, he fled communist Romania for Israel before coming to the United States in 1986, where he taught engineering. USFCRFC 1986 was a big year in engineering. It was the year of Chernobyl. Advertisement Advertisement When he heard gunfire outside his classroom in the engineering building that day, Librescu figured he had one job: holding the door shut. The classroom door, like most doors, was able to shut, but it had no bolt on the inside to keep it shut. In the years since then, various schools have considered installing such locking mechanisms, specifically to protect against shooters, and they have to weigh this choice against the security risk that locked classroom doors present during everyday school activity. In any event, Librescus door did not lock. With no bungee cord handy to keep it closed, he decided to barricade it with his own body. Students jumped out the window while he held the door shut. They were on the second floor, so that meant a few hurt legs, but it was less dangerous than staying in the room once the shooter managed to force his way in. via Wiki Commons The ground also had some soft bushes, always a good choice. Advertisement And force his way in he did. The shooter first turned from that classroom when he couldnt open the door, but he came back. Most of the students had gotten out by this point. He killed Librescu and a student and then walked back out and killed himself. Hed entered at least four classrooms on that floor. Librescus had been the last.
Ask anyone who invented the modern airplane and youll get a clear answer: the Wright Brothers. Its a fact that, even for the most forgetful of us, somehow etches its way deep into our brain, maybe because Wright Brothers is such an eminently catchy name. As history tells it, the two blood-sharing fellas were finally able to conquer gravity on the shores of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Something that, obviously, took an immense amount of research, fabrication and good old gumption. One suspicion remains in my mind, however.

Not that it was faked, or that planes in general are fake, and are, in fact, large metal mythological creatures kept underground by the government, who we fly in the belly of. Though that would be fun. My doubts here lie with the idea that two brothers produced the plane with equal effort. Youre telling me that Wilber and Orville were both putting in roughly 50 percent of the work on the modern plane? The only thing taking flight here is my eyebrows  in doubt.

Anyone whos ever worked on a group project knows its a rare occasion indeed that every participant is equally involved. At best theres a genius who does the thinking part and a talented manager who handles scheduling, a handshake agreement to each do what theyre best at. An actual, honest-to-god, perfectly sliced pie chart of labor? Its rare. Even more so when you bring familial ties into it. This is the stuff bitter estate lawsuits are made of. We all watched Succession.

Public Domain Behind every successful flying innovator is a bald brother who did most of the work.

So, in a quest to answer one single question in my head and to destroy a little bit of a dead mans legacy, I took to the internet to find out. Unsurprisingly, I found that Im not the first person to suspect an uneven distribution of labor. It seems that its more just something no one wants to suggest or say, in order to let the skeletons of the plane brothers rest in peace. Am I risking a metaphysical haunting by a spurned brothers ghost by spreading this information? Perhaps. But thats the sort of journalistic peril that Cracked demands.

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According to a Smithsonian piece by author William Hazelgrove sharing a new view of the brothers joint venture, one discovered during his research for a book called Wright Brothers, Wrong Story, Wilbur deserves most of the credit. Something Hazelgrove drives home with the borderline insulting, passive-aggressive subtitle, How Wilbur Wright Solved the Problem of Manned Flight. According to Hazelgrove, theres years of records of Wilbur pursuing flight solo, requesting documents to further his research and developing propellers without any Orville assistance. By the time Orville boarded their maybe-plane the first time in 1902, Wilbur had already chalked up hundreds of attempts on his lonesome. Even their father was clearly aware of the brains of the operation, writing to Wilbur, concerned (rightfully) for his safety, alone, Orville would be crippled and burdened. Brutal.

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So why, then, is everyone of the belief that the plane was developed in a perfectly proportional Orville-Wilbur yin-yang of effort? You may have heard the phrase, History is written by the victors. Well, in the absence of a war, it could be adjusted to, History is written by the person that died last, which was Orville, who outlived Wilbur by a tidy 36 years after Wilbur died an untimely death to typhoid fever. So he was long gone by the publication of the book The Wright Brothers: A Biography Authorized by Orville Wright in 1943, a book whose title might give you some inkling as to the type of editorial suggestions that were made. Orville is at least noted to be gifted mechanically, but more in the art of repair than the art of innovation.

What might have to hurt most of all? That on the fateful day of the first successful flight, thanks to a coin-flip, it was Orville who lifted off, and starred in the photographic evidence. We see you, Wilbur. We see you.
Today, I woke up with a powerful curiosity. What drove it, I cannot tell you. Perhaps I had a particularly stinky nightmare the details of which are lost in dreamland. Whatever spurred it, I suddenly had a deep need to know, what was the stinkiest element on the periodic table? Which of the many squares on the preferred wall-hanging of big-time nerds everywhere would make my eyes water?

I had my assumptions. Sulfur, for example, is famously stinky. After a quick Google search to confirm that, yes, sulfur is in fact an element, it remained at the top of my list. But there was still so much table to smell. Or at least, hear the accounts of people with more access to scientific tubes and globs of various atomic stuffs. So off I was to corners of the internet where scientists answer the questions of the common man with what can be generously described as waning patience.

The first thing I discovered was that my stink bracket had immediately been busted. It turns out sulfurs been getting besmirched forever on the basis of its compounds, not sulfur alone. Since were talking about elements, Im considering them in their pure, stable states, which for sulfur is a yellow crystal that, to me, looks like it would recharge some sort of stamina bar and/or be used to upgrade my weapon. More to the point, pure sulfur has no smell. Something you undoubtedly shouldnt feel bad about not knowing, given the constant use of sulfur smell to describe the eggy stink of its compounds.

Look at this Final Fantasy ass element.

Other commonly indicated atomic stinkers are in the same boat, where their compounds smell horrible but the pure element isnt offensive. So, what element needs zero helping hands to reek something horrible?

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I found the answer on Quora, which means I almost immediately dismissed it, but the person answering the question, Barry Gehm, is an assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry at Oxford, so I gave it the benefit of the doubt. He had a surprisingly straightforward answer: bromine. Apparently, if my knowledge of Latin was better (READ: existent), I might have already had this hunch, since the name comes from the Latin bromos, meaning stench. A little further research confirmed that yes, in fact, bromine smells awful, and beyond that, physically irritates the entire pulmonary system. Its also toxic if inhaled in large amounts, but accounts Ive found say you would be sprinting away long before that happened.

A video by chemistry YouTuber NileRed gives us a look and preview of what uncorking a bit of bromine does:

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If youve seen some of NileReds videos, youll know that he has a famously iron nose, so the fact that within a second or two of opening the bottle, he coughs and exits stage left is truly impressive. A commenter, for whatever truth thats worth, mentions getting a whiff of bromine in college while carrying it from a fume hood to a counter and having his nose burn for two weeks.

What does it smell like, exactly? The scientific corners of the internet and their tame, boring descriptions merely call it bleach-like. More colorful descriptions say it smells like more chlorine than chlorine, or chlorine mixed with vomit. Funnily enough, though not nearly at the strength of the element itself, you may well have smelled bromine before. Thats because its sometimes used as an alternative to chlorine in pools and spas. Its a weird enough smell that it inspired a writer for Fodors travel guides to do a full, delightful investigation on why the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disney smells so strange. The answer, it turns out, is bromine.

So, if youve ever done a curious double-sniff on that specific ride, just imagine that times a thousand.
Audiences are innately intelligent and theyll know when youre past your prime in regards to throwing punches and firing guns, but Im not there yet, Liam Neeson told The Hollywood Reporter. Okay, he was referring to his upcoming role in In the Land of Saints and Sinners, but he might as well have been talking about his decision to play straight-faced, punch-throwing, gun-shooting cop Frank Drebin Jr. in the upcoming reboot of The Naked Gun series.

After several years of revenge flicks in which Neeson played obsessed men with a very particular set of skills, even he is sick of the darkness. Its funny because right before Christmas, my sons and I were looking through the Academy screeners and trying to find something silly, some stupid movie that we could giggle at, he said. There was none, of course, as they were all very heavy and international. I mean, brilliant movies, but all very heavy.

Even though he refuses to smile, Neeson is finally ready to switch things up with a comedy. When Seth MacFarlane approached me about it  this was about two years ago, now  I thought, yeah, I guess I could do that as long as I play it dead seriously and not try and imitate Mr. Leslie Nielsen. He was wonderful.

The original creators of the Naked Gun flicks wont be back (and theyre not happy about it). Instead, The Lonely Islands Akiva Schaffer (Pop Star: Never Stop Never Stopping) will be choreographing pratfalls from the directors chair. Hes from the (Saturday Night Live) world. Im looking forward to it, said Neeson. Its a good script, and theres a few laugh-out-loud moments in it.

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The comedy is scheduled to begin filming soon, but many of Neesons co-stars have yet to sign on. Internet rumors have Sandra Huller in talks to play Drebins love interest, and MovieWeb asked Neeson what he thought of the possibility. I don't know who Sandra is, forgive me, he replied.

Um. Sandra Huller? Academy Award nominee this year for Best Actress? Appeared in two of the movies nominated for Best Picture?

Oh, that Sandra Huller! Of course, the German actress, Neeson said, recovering from a flub worthy of Frank Drebin Sr. I honestly dont know if shes involved. Yeah, I dont know.

Will Neeson bring those kinds of floundering comedy chops to the big screen? Your guess is as good as his. He admitted to Collider that hes a little bit nervous about it because Ive done a couple of skits before that were just very short TV things, but this would be, I dont know, 95, 100 minutes of a film. Theyre still casting it (see above), so hopefully my other cast members will be funny and sexy so that I could just be dead absolutely straight. There has to be lots of visual gags going on, too.

While he wont imitate Nielsens performance, he sounds inspired by it. I remember Leslie very well, Neeson said. I love those films. Especially that first, Airplane! You know, Dont call me Shirley. Just that line alone, I think, changed Leslies career.

Surely Schaffer and company can do the same for Neeson.
By Ko Dong-hwan

CJ CheilJedang has announced plans to cement its market leadership in the United States by investing more in creating new food products to boost its overseas sales, according to the country's major food product maker, Wednesday.

The food subsidiary of CJ Group has been gaining popularity in Korea and the U.S. with its frozen food products under its signature label Bibigo including pizzas, dumplings and other Asian-style foods.

Lee Hyung-joon, CJ CheilJedang's chief of staff, said during a shareholders meeting on the same day that the company will create new "big categories" other than dumplings to sustain its market leadership in the U.S. and continue its drive to become a global top-tier food company.

Lee said that by using marketing strategies and ultra-precision technologies, the company will speed up its global business and improve its value internationally. He added the company will also accelerate its market expansion in Europe and Australia.

The company's 17th annual shareholders' meeting was held at CJ Group's human resource training center in Seoul. Lee was there on behalf of CJ Group Chairman Sohn Kyung-shik.

CheilJedang's food products saw robust sales last year. But its bio, food nutrition technology (NFT) and animal feed and care sales were sluggish due to raw ingredients' rising prices that led to a slow domestic livestock industry and delayed economic recovery in China, a major market for the company.

Last year, CheilJedang saw its overall sales register 29 trillion won ($22 billion), a 3.5 percent year-on-year decrease, and operations earn 1.29 trillion won, a 22.4 percent year-on-year decrease.

Lee also said during the shareholders meeting that CheilJedang will keep driving qualitative growth for its bio and NFT businesses as well as red biotechnology led by CJ Bioscience and Batavia Biosciences.
If you hear the term microbranch, you probably picture a small banking location with a handful of ATMs. For many years, this term was specific to the financial industry, but as remote work and internet-connected devices have grown more common, the definition has evolved to include any small remote office associated with a larger corporation. This could be a home office, a shared workspace for a handful of employees, or a remote industrial location.

Modern enterprises must protect and manage hundreds of sites, including data centers and high-traffic branches, and address pressing needs like new Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) applications and Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices. Because of this, it could be tempting to ignore microbranches and focus on seemingly more significant priorities.

But malicious actors are getting better at sniffing out security gaps and leveraging them to infiltrate the network at large. This means one of the most important things a company can do to protect against sophisticated cyberattacks is to ensure its security posture is unified across all locations and environments. Without addressing microbranches within their cybersecurity approach, enterprises can unwittingly create opportunities for attackers to exploit. As the saying goes, a chain is no stronger than its weakest link.

The role of the microbranch

Microbranches within enterprise networking arent as well understood or commonly discussed as the campus or branch, but with the rise of hybrid work following the pandemic, small offices have become more prevalent. Think of all the people you know who use flexible workspaces or work from home.

Depending on the industry, a microbranch may include IoT and operational technology (OT) devices such as smart lightbulbs, security cameras, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), which collect critical systems data. Think of a retail kiosk in a shopping center with a single point-of-sale terminal or a remote wind turbine on the top of a mountain.

When it comes to modern networks, the volume of microbranches and their importance will only continue to grow.

Using SASE to protect the microbranch

Of course, its easy for me to write about the importance of microbranch security but its much more challenging to build a strategy to protect these environments. Networks vary widely, as do microbranches, so theres no one-size-fits-all approach.

Unified secure access service edge (SASE) has emerged as one of the best and most thorough ways to protect your microbranches. The solution delivers converged networking functionality with cloud-delivered security to all users and edges within the network.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when assessing SASE solutions for microbranch security:

The strength of a platform approach: Microbranches often dont require expensive, dedicated solutions with elephant flows and top-of-the-line throughput. Instead of deploying new products that will add complexity, expanding solutions already deployed within the network is ideal. For example, if you already use Fortinet FortiAP wireless access points (APs) to connect the microbranch, you can leverage Fortinet Unified SASE to intelligently offload traffic from microbranches to a SASE location. This allows for comprehensive security inspection at scale for all devices within the microbranch and brings enterprise-grade, AI-powered, cloud-delivered security to these locations via APs.

Simple deployment and management: Because microbranches have few IT resources and often no on-site technical support, leveraging a security solution with intuitive provisioning and simple management is critical. This will ensure the security at the microbranch can be managed and maintained remotely so the site remains online and protected. With a SASE solution, organizations can access this functionality through a central SASE console.

OT and IoT devices: Microbranch security needs to cover all users and devices at the location, including agentless OT and IoT devices. SASE solutions can forward traffic from these devices to SASE locations for a full security inspection, ensuring they arent hiding anything malicious.

Granular identity verification with ZTNA: Despite a microbranchs small size, there will likely be an employee or device at the location that needs to access the overall network or cloud-based applications. SASE includes zero-trust network access (ZTNA) which provides granular, session-based access to specific assets within the network. This limits access to the specific applications and data a user or device needs to complete its job rather than allowing unlimited access to the network, minimizing the potential impact should a bad actor steal login credentials.

Fortinet Unified SASE can protect your microbranch

Microbranches are here to stay, and their security is paramount to your organizations overall security posture. Fortinet Unified SASE is an ideal method to ensure the microbranches within your network are visible, protected, and well-managed. This solution combines all the components needed to converge networking and security for zero implicit trust everywhere.

Learn more about Fortinet Unified SASE and how it can increase the security of your microbranches.
Photo-Illustration: Curbed; Photos: Getty

Walking into my apartment, you might think no one had been there for months. There is a thick layer of dust on nearly every surface  the dresser, the bookshelves, the mirrors. It gathers in the corners of my room, in long strings and fat clumps. Dusting doesnt seem to help much, either: A surface I wipe down in the morning will be at least a little dusty by afternoon. In comparison, my parents house upstate is almost never dusty. I stayed there after they were away for months on a recent trip and marveled at how pristine the piano and coffee table were. It seemed unfair somehow. Was it me? My apartment? Is New York City just dustier than other places?

The answer isnt as easy as you think, says Ben Bostick, a research professor at Columbia Universitys Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, when I asked him if we lived in a uniquely dusty place. Theres lots of dust in the world. (Bostick is my go-to guy now when I have gross questions about living in New York.) In terms of air pollution  which produces particles that settle, eventually, into dust  New York isnt even close to the top of the list. (That distinction goes to Bakersfield, California.) Its also not a desert environment, which would have more obvious sources of dust. New Yorks dust issues also arent entirely explainable by car fumes  another big source of dust.

A sample of my dust (sorry). Photo: Clio Chang

But Bostick did have some theories about why I felt so plagued by the stuff. He guessed (correctly) that I lived on the first or second floor of my building, and pointed out that most of the fine particle dust in the city comes from pollutants like combustion from cars. While we may not have as many cars per capita as other cities that are more suburban and spread out, we do live closer to them. (In certain neighborhoods, like the South Bronx, proximity to truck pollution is especially bad, driving high rates of asthma.) In New York, your house is right on the street and the windows are one sidewalk away from traffic, Bostick said. All those particles just waft right in. There are other possible factors at play: The buildings in New York are relatively old  the median age of buildings is around 90 years  and many of them lack new air-filtration systems. A lot of indoor air pollution also comes from cooking, which, again, settles differently in a tiny apartment compared to a huge suburban kitchen. Think of how many people essentially live in their kitchens in New York, Bostick said.

Andrea Ferro, an environmental engineering professor at Clarkson University who researches indoor air quality, told me that she didnt know of any specific studies that compared quantities of dust in homes between cities. But she had some ideas as to why New York might feel more dusty than other places. A lot of dust is just human skin particles. Since more people in the city live together in smaller spaces, that means all of our skin cells have less surface area on which to accumulate. So itll pile up quicker, Ferro says. (The clumps that form are usually held together by static electricity or hair.) Its also probably why my parents house wasnt that dusty after they had been away  they were off shedding their skin cells abroad. (They also dont live off a heavily trafficked road, which surely helps.)

This was all helpful, but I wanted to know why my apartment, specifically, was so dusty. Bostick offered to test it and we met at Barnard (a school that I felt would welcome a woman holding a bag that contained not an insignificant amount of her own hair dust in the pursuit of the truth). Bostick put my Ziploc in a machine that looked a lot like a panini press. He turned it on and X-rays shot through my dust to determine what it actually was.

Analyzing my dust in the panini press (scientific term). Clio Chang. Analyzing my dust in the panini press (scientific term). Clio Chang.

We sat by the computer as the machine did its thing. (Science, Ive learned, is mostly waiting.) Finally, the results popped up, predictably and suitably gross: The top components were sulfur, calcium, and potassium  basically, the substances were made of. The coarse dust is really mostly you, Bostick said. Hair has a lot of sulfur. Next were metals like iron, zinc, and chromium, which Bostick said could come from a mixture of outside sources  soil or combustion from cars  but none of them were high enough to be concerning. Surprisingly, I also had very little lead, something thats a common issue in city apartments.

Breathing in small particulate matter (smog, smoke) is where more of the health concerns are. There are ways to help mitigate the dust in your home, such as air filters or switching to an induction stove (good luck on that, New Yorkers). Bostick said that opening your windows while you cook can help and closing them if there happen to be certain times when, say, more trucks are driving by. Ferro also advises asthmatics to get rid of carpets in their homes, which she calls a reservoir of dust.

To complete our shared research, Bostick also lent me an air-quality monitor that we both agreed looked like a little hat. After hanging it off of my bookshelf for two weeks and comparing it to a nearby monitor outside, we could hazard guesses at a few more findings. First and most crucially: I was not a very good scientist. Somehow, days of data werent captured. Our second discovery was that I didnt seem to have any unusual things happening inside or outside  like an influx of traffic during rush hour or a building issue  that would regularly generate huge spikes. (Instead I have a small but steadily unpleasant line of cars that incessantly honk.) But when the air quality in the city overall got bad, it took about half a day to get inside my apartment. (A day of rain brought everything back down again.) The worst indoor spikes came from when I was likely cooking. I can tell you didnt cook that much though, Bostick said, which was intrusive and true.

You should feel really pretty good, Bostick said of my dust. In a way, this was comforting. I was, somehow, living in harmony with the skin cells and fossil-fuel byproducts that shared my apartment. But it was still gross. And an annoying chore. When I mentioned my endless upkeep to Bostick he offered another option: You could just let it sit around.
NCSOFT, a major Korean online and mobile game developer, said Wednesday it has joined hands with Google Cloud in improving artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing capabilities.

In a meeting at the Google headquarters in the United States, the two companies discussed ways to apply AI and cloud technologies in game development and develop a platform to create a gaming ecosystem.

NCSOFT said it also plans to upgrade its generative AI language model, VARCO, by utilizing Google Cloud's Vertex AI, a machine learning platform that offers access to Google's next-generation LLM Gemini.

"To create a fresh gaming experience for our global users, we will collaborate with Google Cloud to form an ecosystem," NCSOFT CEO Kim Taek-jin said. (Yonhap)
A cargo ship lost power and rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, destroying the span in a matter of seconds and plunging it into the river in a terrifying collapse that could disrupt a vital shipping port for months. Six people were missing and presumed dead.

The ships crew issued a mayday call moments before the crash took down the Francis Scott Key Bridge, enabling authorities to limit vehicle traffic on the span, Marylands governor said.

The ship struck one of the bridges support , causing the structure to collapse like a toy. A section of the span came to rest on the bow of the vessel, which caught fire.

With the ship barreling toward the bridge at a very, very rapid speed, authorities had just enough time to stop cars from coming over the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said.

These people are heroes, Moore said. They saved lives last night.

The crash happened in the middle of the night, long before the busy morning commute on the bridge that stretches 1.6 miles (2.6 km) and was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

The six people still unaccounted for were part of a construction crew filling potholes on the bridge, said Paul Wiedefeld, the state's transportation secretary.

A senior executive at the company that employed the workers said Tuesday afternoon that they were presumed dead, given the waters depth and the length of time since the crash.

Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, said the crew was working in the middle of the bridge when it came down. No bodies have been recovered, and rescuers continued the search into the late afternoon.

This was so completely unforeseen, Pritzker said. We dont know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers."

Jesus Campos, who has worked on the bridge for Brawner Builders and knows members of the crew, said he was told they were on a break and some were sitting in their trucks when the bridge went down.

I know that a month ago, I was there, and I know what it feels like when the trailers pass, Campos said. Imagine knowing that is falling. It is so hard. One would not know what to do.

Rescuers pulled two people out of the water. One person was treated at a hospital and discharged hours later. Multiple vehicles also went into the river, although authorities did not believe anyone was inside.

It looked like something out of an action movie, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said, calling it an unthinkable tragedy."

A police dispatcher put out a call just before the collapse saying a ship had lost its steering and asked officers to stop all traffic on the bridge, according to Maryland Transportation Authority first responder radio traffic obtained from the Broadcastify.com archive.

One officer who stopped traffic radioed that he was going to drive onto the bridge to alert the construction crew. But seconds later, a frantic officer said: The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever, everybody ... the whole bridge just collapsed.

On a separate radio channel for maintenance and construction workers, someone said officers were stopping traffic because a ship had lost steering. There was no follow-up order to evacuate, and 30 seconds later the bridge fell and the channel went silent.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collision, according to the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

The collapse is sure to create a logistical nightmare for months, if not years, along the East Coast, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major shipping hub. The accident will also snarl cargo and commuter traffic.

Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast, Maryland state Sen. Johnny Ray Salling said.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, speaking at a news conference near the site, said it was too soon to estimate how long it will take to clear the channel, which is about 50 feet (15 meters) deep.

I do not know of a bridge that has been constructed to withstand a direct impact from a vessel of this size, he said.

Synergy Marine Group  which manages the ship, called the Dali  confirmed the vessel hit a pillar of the bridge at about 1:30 a.m. while in control of one or more pilots, who are local specialists who help guide vessels safely into and out of ports. The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd.

Synergy said all crew members and the two pilots on board were accounted for, and there were no reports of any injuries.

The ship was moving at 8 knots, roughly 9 mph (14.8 kph), the governor said.

Jagged remnants of the bridge could be seen jutting up from the water's surface. The on-ramp ended abruptly where the span once began.

Donald Heinbuch, a retired chief with Baltimores fire department, said he was startled awake by a deep rumbling that shook his house for several seconds. It felt like an earthquake, he said.

He drove to the river's edge and couldnt believe what he saw.

The ship was there, and the bridge was in the water, like it was blown up, he said.

The bridge spans the Patapsco River at the entrance to a busy harbor, which leads to the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Opened in 1977, the bridge is named for the writer of The Star-Spangled Banner.

Wiedefeld said all vessel traffic into and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though the facility was still open to trucks.

President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore and intends for the federal government to pick up the entire cost of rebuilding.

This is going to take some time, Biden said.

The Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic. The container ship is about 985 feet (300 meters) long and about 157 feet (48 meters) wide, according to the website.

Inspectors found a problem with the Dalis machinery in June, but a more recent examination did not identify any deficiencies, according to the shipping information system Equasis.

Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

Last year, the Port of Baltimore handled a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo worth $80 billion, according to the state.

The head of a supply chain management company said Americans should expect shortages of goods from the effect of the collapse on ocean container shipping and East Coast trucking.

Its not just the port of Baltimore thats going to be impacted, said Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport.

The collapse, though, is not likely to hurt worldwide trade because Baltimore is not a major port for container vessels, but its facilities are more important when it comes to goods such as farm equipment and autos, said Judah Levine, head of research for global freight booking platform Freightos. (AP)
Marlene Kennedy is a freelance columnist. Opinions expressed in her column are her own and not necessarily the newspapers. Reach her at marlenejkennedy@gmail.com.
Insights | Chinese path to modernization a valid model for challenges facing humanity: Spanish scholar

14:55, March 27, 2024 By Zhao Li ( Ecns.cn

(ECNS) -- The Chinese path to modernization represents a valid model to address the main challenges facing humanity such as sustainable development, the search for peace, and the fight against inequality and poverty, said Javier Garcia, journalism professor at Renmin University of China and former director of Agencia EFE in China.

Garcia made the remarks in Wuyishan, Fujian Province while attending the First Wuyi Forum, hosted by Renmin University of China. At a parallel forum, he made a speech titled A New Model for Human Progress.

Javier Garcia Photo: China News Network/ Zhao Li

He spoke highly of the Chinese path to modernization. There are three fundamental aspects of the Chinese model that I consider crucial: the construction of an ecological civilization, the peaceful development, and the pragmatic approach, he said.

He pointed out that the shift in China's ecological awareness and the priority given to the environment and sustainable development in its policies in recent years has been radical.

China is building a green civilization and has emerged as a major driver of the global energy transition. It is a world leader in renewable energy, electric vehicles, reforestation, and innovative ecological projects such as the sponge cities, he said.

Talking about Chinas peaceful development path, Javier said it is influenced by ancient Chinese culture.

China has a very strong culture which goes back about thousands of years ago. This is very important even now for China. For instance, its peaceful development has a lot to do with ancient figures and philosophers like Confucius or Laozi and even Buddhism in China, he said in an interview with China News Network.

Noting Chinas basic principles in international relations like respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, no aggression and peaceful coexistence, Garcia believes they are very important for the world and said China is a very good example.

As a seasoned media professional, Garcia also criticized some Western media's distorted reporting on China. There is a clear campaign to denigrate the image of China. Whether China does good things or not, some Western media have always described the bad side, even the very good things that China does, like it has already alleviated the extreme poverty and the ecological policies of China, he said. In this regard, he believes the report on China should be objective.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Israel has recalled its negotiators from Doha after deeming mediated talks on a Gaza truce "at a dead end" due to demands by Hamas, a senior Israeli official said on Tuesday.

The official, who is close to the Mossad spymaster heading up the talks, accused Hamas' Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar of sabotaging the diplomacy "as part of a wider effort to inflame this war over Ramadan."

The warring sides had stepped up negotiations, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, on a six-week suspension of Israel's offensive in return for the proposed release of 40 of the 130 hostages still held by the Palestinian militant group in Gaza.

Hamas has sought to parlay any deal into an end to the fighting and withdrawal of Israeli forces. Israel has ruled this out, saying it would eventually resume efforts to dismantle the governance and military capabilities of Hamas.

Hamas also wants hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who fled Gaza City and surrounding areas southward during the first stage of the almost six-month-old war to be allowed back north.

The Israeli official said that Israel had agreed to double the number of Palestinians it would release in exchange for the hostages to 700-800 prisoners and allow some displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Tuesday that Hamas had made "delusional" demands, which it said showed the Palestinians were not interested in a deal.

In Tel Aviv, a crowd of around 300 family members of hostages and their supporters gathered outside the Israeli defense headquarters demanding a deal be done to release the captives. Some locked themselves inside cages in protest, holding placards with photos of their loved ones. "No price is too high," one of the signs said.

Hamas has accused Israel of stalling at the talks while it carries out its military offensive.

The discussions in Doha are continuing as Palestinians in Gaza face severe shortages of food, medicine and hospital care, and concerns grow that famine will take hold. (Reuters)
On Monday, after it was revealed that China had hacked the personal details of up to 40 million British voters, the Foreign Secretary  Lord Cameron of Chipping Norton  described the regime's conduct as 'completely unacceptable'.

He should know. It was Cameron who, as Prime Minister in the early 2010s, encouraged closer relations with Beijing.

It was thanks to him (and also to his Chancellor, George Osborne, who was equally enthusiastic about fostering ties) that the late Queen controversially had tea at Buckingham Palace with visiting Chinese officials; thanks to him that Xi Jinping was treated to a State Visit in 2015; and, ultimately, thanks to him that Britain ended up in the insane situation where China was to build a new nuclear power station in the UK.

When, in 2013, Cameron led a delegation of senior Government ministers to China (not long after Osborne had visited with a group of business leaders), my ex-husband, Michael Gove, was among them.

Despite being required to get straight off the plane and into meetings with officials, he and his team were told to make the ten-hour trip in economy. The directive was intended to deflect criticism back home against a background of austerity, but it caused consternation among their Chinese hosts. Basically, they laughed in his face.

The late Queen controversially has tea at Buckingham Palace with visiting Chinese officials including Xi Jinping, orchestrated by David Cameron, Sarah Vine writes

Nevertheless, the trip was no joke. Security was ultra-tight. Michael was provided with a 'burner phone' and told to leave his own at home. I was not allowed to have the number in case I rang it and the Chinese somehow used it to infiltrate my device and stick some bug on it.

Any gifts he was given  which he could not refuse, since that would have been the height of rudeness  were assumed to be bugged and had to be handed over or destroyed on his return (shame: one of them was a rather pretty tea set in a lacquered box). He was reminded that nowhere, not even his hotel rooms, could be considered private.

Nothing was as it seemed. Indeed, a photograph of them all supposedly toasting their arrival (alongside Vince Cable, who was the Business Secretary) with champagne was a fake: that was water in the glasses, not Champagne. It wasn't even sparkling!

This photo of British leaders toasting their arrival in China in 2010 is not as it seems, writes Sarah Vine, as the liquid in the glass was water, not Champagne. Pictured: Michael Gove, Vince Cable, George Osborne and David Cameron

To be fair to Cameron, building ties with China seemed like a commercial imperative then.

The Conservatives had not long been in power and were struggling with the terrible economic mess left behind by the previous Labour government.

China was a financial powerhouse that could not be ignored. In 2010, when Cameron won the election, China's GDP grew by 10.3 per cent, reaching $6.1trillion, and making it the second-largest economy in the world. It was pursuing interests all over the globe, including in Africa and the Far East.

There was a definite sense that if Britain wasn't part of that, we would be left behind. And so it was a case of holding our noses, and securing those deals.

More than a decade on, and with a bruised and battered Conservative Party staggering towards the end of its tenure in power, was it worth it?

Did all that bowing and scraping win us any serious long-term advantages with Beijing, or have they just regarded our efforts with contempt, exploiting our naivety and mocking us along the way?

If the latest intelligence is correct, very definitely the latter. China sees our liberal democracy as a weakness, and like similar despotic regimes in Iran and Russia, has used it against us. But Beijing also has one distinct advantage over Tehran and Moscow: it has us trapped in a toxic relationship.

Britain is heavily dependent on China for trade. Every year we buy more than 60billion of Chinese goods, from laptops, games consoles and mobile phones to gym equipment, clothes and toys. Even dear old Marks & Sparks, the quintessential British brand, has almost 200 factories in China which it uses to supply clothing and homeware.

Meanwhile, manufacturing at home has dwindled almost to extinction, unable to compete with China's rock-bottom prices, fuelled by ruthless business practices, appalling working conditions and dirt-cheap  often slave  labour.

How can UK companies, weighed down by endless regulation and red tape, ever compete?

Slowly but surely, we've relinquished our manufacturing autonomy to the Chinese  and with it any trace of economic independence.

Never was this more painfully obvious than during Covid, when China's stranglehold on the production of PPE resulted in dramatic shortages and sky-high prices. Britain did not have the manufacturing base to produce what was needed.

We were heavily reliant on China for these essential resources  and it cost us dear, both financially and politically. It was a similar story with Covid tests.

As a predatory, expansionist regime, China long ago spotted our vulnerabilities. It's our own greed and stupidity as a short-sighted, voracious consumer society that has led us to this point, where we find ourselves shackled to a ruthless totalitarian regime whose ideology runs counter to everything Britain stands for.

They look at us and they see a nation of soft-bellied layabouts, a bloated service economy, a society so lazy and incompetent we can't even teach our own children to go to the toilet properly; a country that cares more about the rights of a handful of trans women than it does about the brutal oppression of entire female populations in places such as Iran and Afghanistan; a nation that tears down its own Imperial past to appease marauding woke mobs clad in three-for-a-tenner Shein T-shirts.

They must think we're soft in the head  and frankly who can blame them?

To them we must seem like a bunch of spoilt children, easily distracted by the sweeties of cheap fast fashion and cut-price electronics. We are hooked on social media and conspiracy theories, addicted to apps such as TikTok  which are accused of stealing our data as they hypnotise us into inertia.

In China, TikTok is banned for children, with good reason. Over here, it's just another way of keeping us nicely sedated.

In fact, there are moments when I wonder why the Chinese government bothers resorting to espionage at all. Half the time we give away our data for free, on TikTok or in pursuit of ever cheaper piles of plastic rubbish with which to fill our homes.

Take Temu, the cheap-as-chips online Chinese marketplace, where you can buy anything from a tent to a tuxedo for under a fiver. This retail giant is running a giveaway offering Twitter/X users 'free money' for new sign-ups.

Too good to be true? Yes. The small print in the 'Cash Reward' promotion makes it clear that users agree to give Temu permission to use their 'photo, name likeness, voice, opinions, statements, biographical information, and/or hometown and state' worldwide  as well as 'sharing' their data with third parties.

In other words, they'll sell you 1,000 times over  and all in exchange for a bit of tat.

One is reminded of Christopher Columbus exchanging worthless glass trinkets for gold artefacts with the Native American tribes he encountered on his first voyage to the New World. Only now it's us being led by the nose to the point of extinction.

MPs are right to call for a crackdown on China. But that's the easy part. Unplugging a British public addicted to a constant supply of cheap Chinese goods is going to be the far greater challenge, especially in a cost-of-living crisis.

And yet that, not fine words in Parliament, is the key to cracking down on China's abusive behaviour.

In the meantime, you know what they say: beware of Chinese diplomats bearing gifts.
As a rule, I never apologise for something I didnt do. And I certainly dont demand an apology when I havent personally been wronged. But remarkably, it appears Im in a minority.

For according to a new survey, 60 per cent of Brits believe the descendants of victims of transatlantic slavery deserve a formal apology from the Government, the Royal Family and any companies that profited from it.

The transatlantic slave trade was, of course, a heinous practice and the British economy benefited greatly from it for almost 400 years until its abolition in 1833.

But it strikes me that those demanding this apology likely fall into one of two categories. Theyre either woke white saviours indulging in their preferred pastime of virtue signalling. Or, theyre young black people or activists who think they stand to benefit  financially or otherwise  from repeatedly waxing on about a historic injustice that may have had no effect on their lives.

Unsurprisingly, the demographic most in favour of an apology is young people. And whatever their reasoning, I believe that what these woke youngsters really need is not an apology, but a history lesson.

Protesters topple a statue of slave trader Edward Colston in Bristol in 2020

The first thing to clarify is that Britain has already apologised for slavery  multiple times in fact. In the summer of 1840, Prince Albert addressed an anti-slavery conference in London declaring the practice repugnant to the spirit of Christianity and the best feelings of our nature. It was also during this time that the Royal Navy became a global leader in seizing slave ships and liberating those on board, with 17,000 men losing their lives in the process.

And more recently, in 2006, then Prime Minister Tony Blair expressed deep sorrow for Britains role in the transatlantic trade, before reiterating his apology the following year, declaring: We are sorry. And I say it again now.

Then theres the fact that slavery, sadly, has been part of history from time immemorial and the transatlantic slave trade is just one small part of that narrative.

According to the renowned slavery historian David Eltis, almost all peoples have been both slaves and slaveholders at some point in their histories. The idea that only black Africans have suffered from slavery is simply inaccurate.

In 3000 BC, the ancient Egyptian empire was utterly reliant on slavery, and so was the Roman Empire after that. In the 9th century AD, Viking warlords were trading Irish, English and Scottish slaves across Europe.

Demonstrators demand the removal of Cecil Rhodes's statue at Oriel College, Oxford, in 2020

While we are at it, lets also dispel the myth that Africa was a haven of equality and liberalism prior to colonisation. The truth is that slavery was a huge part of African life long before white imperialists arrived.

In Europe, wealthy people bought and controlled land and hired people to work on it. In Africa, private land didnt exist in the same way, so wealthy families bought people instead, and owned the products of their labour. Furthermore, when Europeans did arrive, it was often the African slave owners themselves who sold their own people into the transatlantic trade.

And now we come to the hypocrisy of those calling for an apology. For while they bleat on about the transatlantic slave trade, blind to its historical context, there are still 50million people in slavery today.

According to the Office for National Statistics, there are thought to be as many as 13,000 victims of modern slavery currently in the UK, most of whom have been trafficked from countries such as Albania, Nigeria and Vietnam. Shockingly, over 20 per cent are thought to be children put to work in covert cannabis farms and nail bars.

Elsewhere in the world, the picture is even bleaker. 11million people in India are thought to be modern-day slaves while the figure in China is 5.8million and 2.3million in Pakistan. And whats worse, we in Britain benefit every day from the suffering and servitude of these oppressed people.

The Global Slavery Index identified that in 2021 the UK imported 20.6billion of goods at-risk of modern slavery. Among the products most likely to be manufactured using slave labour are electronics, clothing and palm oil  in other words, everyday items that we cannot live without.

Of course, as consumers we are not solely to blame. But while our lives remain so inextricably linked to the oppression of modern-day slaves, its both ludicrous and hypocritical to demand apologies for historic instances of slavery.

So the next time some bleeding-heart liberal calls for an apology for the transatlantic slave trade, perhaps they might start by asking the Egyptians to apologise for the indiscretions of Tutankhamun?

And once theyre done with that, they can throw out their expensive electronics and purge their wardrobes of anything made in a sweatshop. Then, and only then, will I take a lecture from these smug young hypocrites seriously.
The Boring Company signage is displayed at the tunnel entrance before an unveiling event for The Boring Company Hawthorne test tunnel December 18, 2018 in Hawthorne, California. On Tuesday night, The Boring Company will officially open the Hawthorne tunnel, a preview of Elon Musk's larger vision to ease traffic in Los Angeles. Pool/Getty Images

Bastrop city leaders have reached a deal that may provide a solution to a controversial proposal. The Central Texas city is doing everything to avoid two of tech billionaire Elon Musks companies dumping thousands of gallons of treated wastewater into the Colorado River.

Musk has been making moves into Central Texas in recent years, and Bastrop is no exception. The city has become home to two of Musks companies: The Boring Company and SpaceX, plus The Boring Bodega that sits across from Musks land in the city. But in October 2022, The Boring Company filed a request for a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to dump up to 142,500 gallons of treated wastewater into the Colorado River on a daily basis.

This move brought opposition from many Bastrop residents, one of whom even created a campaign to Keep Bastrop Boring to address safety concerns around The Boring Companys plans in the area. The Boring Company builds underground transportation, utility, and freight tunnels.

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Now, the City of Bastrop has reached a deal with The Boring Company and SpaceX, which also has operations in the area, to redirect the hundreds of thousands of gallons of wastewater to a wastewater treatment facility that the city plans to open in the next month, according to KVUE. The new wastewater building will be located between the Colorado River and Highway 304 just south of Griesenbeck Ranch Road.

KVUE reports that Musks land on FM 1209 and FM 969 will eventually be connected to the wastewater facility by early 2026.

City leaders brought the agreement to The Boring Company and utility provider Corix to a Tuesday, March 26, meeting, and though the parties seemed to agree on the deal, it will be officially decided at next months meeting, KVUE reports.
Fifty five years ago, the newly-wed John Lennon and Yoko Ono spent a week in bed in the presidential suite of the Amsterdam Hilton.

A few days before, they had sent out a card saying, 'Come to John and Yoko's honeymoon: a bed-in, Amsterdam Hotel'.

Every day they opened their bedroom doors to hundreds of journalists and camera crews, and sat up in bed giving interviews. As honeymoons go, it was peculiarly populous.

'We talked to the Press. We met people from the Communist countries, people from the West  every country in the world,' John recalled. 'We gave the Press eight hours of every day, every waking hour, to ask every question they wanted to about our position.'

This week-long honeymoon 'bed-in' was part of their campaign for world peace. 'It's the best idea we've had yet.

John Lennon and Yoko Ono photographed on November 2, 1980

American criminal Mark David Chapman - the man who shot John Lennon - in a mug shot taken at the Attica Correctional Facility

We're doing a commercial for peace on the front pages of newspapers around the world instead of a commercial for war,' said John. 'We're trying to sell peace, like a product, and sell it like people sell soap or soft drinks.'

Some of their more rigorous visitors asked them searching questions about their pacifist stance; some of their answers were astoundingly insensitive and egotistical.

When one reporter asked her how she would have dealt with the threat of Hitler, Yoko replied, 'I would have gone to bed with him. In ten days, I would have changed his mind.'

Not everyone was convinced. Even some of the Beatles' keenest fans proved sceptical.

'Under the ostensibly selfless holy foolery... was a core of exhibitionistic self-promotion' wrote Ian MacDonald in his masterly book The Beatles, Revolution In The Head.

Despite John and Yoko's bed-based efforts, The Vietnam War would continue to rage for another six years. Undaunted, Yoko Ono remains firmly convinced that the two of them changed the world for the better.

In an interview with Tom Hibbert in 1988, she made the surprising boast that she and John had, at that time, been the only two people in the world espousing peace.

'In the beginning John and I were quite alone in what we were saying, the only ones  but now 98 per cent of the world, I think, is really for peace... In the end, you see, it did have an effect. Last year, when Reagan and Gorbachev had their summit and shook hands, I sort of felt, well, John and I did have an effect. I was saying to John in my mind, John, we did it!'

Fifty five years on, Yoko Ono is 91 years old, and the subject of a celebratory exhibition at Tate Modern.

The critics have fallen over each other in their headlong rush to celebrate her 'genius'.

This calls to mind Alan Bennett's observation that 'if you live to be 90 in England and can still eat a boiled egg they think you deserve the Nobel Prize'.

Fifty five years on, Yoko Ono is 91 years old, and the subject of a celebratory exhibition at Tate Modern

Mark Chapman has been incarcerated for the past 44 years. Every two years, he comes up for parole; every two years, Yoko Ono instructs her lawyers to oppose it

Meanwhile, her husband's killer, Mark Chapman, remains locked up in prison in New York. He has been incarcerated for the past 44 years. Every two years, he comes up for parole; every two years, Yoko Ono instructs her lawyers to oppose it.

If Chapman were to be released, she says, 'myself and John's two sons would not feel safe for the rest of our lives  people who are in positions of high visibility and outspokenness such as John would also feel unsafe.'

She adds that the murder of John Lennon, 'managed to change my whole life, devastate his sons, and bring deep sorrow and fear to the world.'

Earlier this month, Chapman was denied parole for the 13th time; it now seems inevitable that he will die in prison.

There will, of course, be those who say that what Chapman did was unforgivable, and it is only right that he should spend the rest of his life behind bars.

This is a natural human reaction. Nevertheless, Yoko Ono has spent her life publicly preaching forgiveness, and urging the rest of us to follow the path of love and peace.

In Northern Ireland and South Africa, ordinary people who have suffered terrible family losses have somehow managed to forgive their enemies, and all in the quest for peace.

As John Lennon sang on Mind Games: 'Love is the answer.' Isn't it time Yoko Ono practised what she has long been preaching?
The World Health Organisation is gearing up to persuade the world's governments to sign a new pandemic treaty in May.

Though called an 'accord' so as not to frighten democrats who still like that old-fashioned thing called accountability, it is a significant power grab by an unelected body that seems determined now to set down rules for how countries should react to future pandemics. Never waste a good crisis, as the saying goes.

Yet the WHO has a terrible track record in managing epidemics, not least in its response to Covid-19, where it made a series of bad mistakes and did China's bidding. The Pandemic Accord would be a reward for failure.

Last month Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO's director-general, tweeted plaintively: 'There's a litany of lies and conspiracy theories about the #PandemicAccord.

'Let me tell you what the accord is about  it's a set of commitments by countries to strengthen the world's defences in several areas: prevention with a One Health approach; health and care workforce; research & development; access to vaccines, treatments and tests; sharing of information, technology, and biological samples. What is so problematic about those commitments?'

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organisation, shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2020

The WHO has a terrible track record in managing epidemics, not least in its response to Covid

This sounds lovely. But buried within the proposed treaty, and a parallel set of recommended changes to the International Health Regulations, is a grant to the WHO of power to instruct governments on how to manage societies during a pandemic, vesting that power in the director-general.

These undertakings would be 'legally binding' as the G20 leaders stated in Bali in 2022 and New Delhi in 2023.

The suggested amendment leaves little doubt as to who would be in charge: ' States . . . recognise WHO as the guidance and coordinating authority of international public health response during public health Emergency of International Concern and undertake to follow WHO's recommendations in their international public health response.'

What would this mean for the Swedish government, which decided against fully locking down society and closing schools, avoiding the devastating economic consequences of lockdown without suffering worse excess deaths than other countries? Could it do so next time?

The accord would oblige countries to greatly increase funding of the WHO in the event of a pandemic, to pay for the 'containment of spill-over at source' and to hand over products such as vaccines 'in accordance with timetables to be agreed between the WHO and manufacturers'. Would Britain under such strictures be permitted to roll out its vaccine programme with the remarkable efficiency it did from 2021 onwards?

Countries would also agree to limit criticism of the WHO in order to 'combat false, misleading, misinformation or disinformation'. This very article could in theory be censored by our government at the behest of the WHO.

The recent track record of the body to which our government is about to hand such powers and funds does not inspire confidence.

A decade ago, the WHO admitted initially underplaying the West African Ebola outbreak for fear of offending member states, ignoring the alarm raised by organisations such as Medecins Sans Frontieres. It promised to do better next time. But it did worse.

On January 14, 2020, when hospitals in Wuhan were seeing a flood of Covid cases, many of whom had never been near animals in a market and some of whom were, in turn, infecting healthcare workers, the WHO repeated the Chinese government's nonsensical insistence that you could normally only catch Covid from an animal, not a person: 'It is very clear right now that we have no sustained human-to-human transmission.'

In January 2020, the WHO insisted it was a 'FACT: #COVID19 is NOT airborne'

The Taiwanese government had, by then, urged the WHO to rethink this dud advice, but the WHO does not even recognise Taiwan's existence.

A crucial opportunity to nip the pandemic in the bud was lost. A few weeks later, while the Chinese government was punishing medical whistleblowers for telling the truth, WHO chief Tedros said his admiration for China's actions went 'beyond words', while praising 'China's commitment to transparency'.

Tedros is an Ethiopian politician who got the WHO job at China's insistence. The Chinese government twisted the arms of African countries to vote for Tedros in 2017 while reminding them of potential financial aid.

He rewarded Xi Jinping by officially recognising 'traditional Chinese medicine' as legitimate science, even though it includes eating pangolin scales  encouraging persecution of the harmless anteaters almost to extinction.

Having made these egregious errors in January 2020, the WHO then insisted it was a 'FACT: #COVID19 is NOT airborne'. This turned out to be 100 per cent wrong, and led to people staying in the (crowded and unventilated) indoors, when we now know outdoor infection was very rare. The WHO should have said 'stay outside as much as possible  for meetings, school classes and work'.

But these mistakes pale beside the howler the WHO made in 2021.

Having taken months to negotiate terms for a WHO team of scientists to visit China to investigate the pandemic's origins, it then appointed Dr Peter Daszak to the team.

He was a close collaborator of the Wuhan Institute of Virology and had quietly organised a letter to the Lancet early in the pandemic condemning the claim the virus might have leaked from that laboratory while failing to disclose his own conflict of interest.

Before Covid, the WHO had been keen to stress the risk of laboratory leaks starting pandemics

After the team reached Wuhan and spent days being shown mostly irrelevant sites, they held a press conference at which they dismissed the lab leak as extremely unlikely and endorsed a farcical Chinese government claim that it was far more likely the virus had reached Wuhan on frozen seafood from abroad.

So laughable was this that it backfired and Tedros had to concede a possible laboratory leak should be investigated.

He set up a committee to do so, which in the three years since has managed to obey a vow of near-Trappist silence on the topic.

It was left to independent investigators to unearth evidence that there was indeed a detailed plan to manipulate bat viruses in a laboratory to generate strains that could infect humanised mice  and to do it in Wuhan.

Before Covid, the WHO had been keen to stress the risk of laboratory leaks starting pandemics. In 2006, it said: 'A new epidemic of SARS would most likely emerge from an animal reservoir or a laboratory doing research with live cultures of SARS-CoV or handling stored clinical specimens containing SARS-CoV. The risk of re-emergence from a laboratory source is thought to be potentially greater.'

Yet the Pandemic Accord almost completely ignores this risk. If a draconian treaty is to be imposed on us, at very least it should insist all governments share information about their research on high-risk viruses. Any government that fails to do this should be excluded from scientific collaboration until it complies.

At a time when China's threat to Britain's security is under scrutiny it would, frankly, be madness to give an unelected body in thrall to the Chinese government the power to tell our elected government what to do.
A woman has revealed how she endured 10 years of abuse by a serial rapist who lured her into a relationship when she was 15 years old and he was in his 40s.

Speaking in the BBC documentary Disclosure: Dead Man Running, Jade Skea, from Inverness, details the violence she suffered at the hands of Kim Avis - who threw her down a flight of stairs when she was pregnant.

Well-known street trader Kim Gordon - otherwise known as Kim Avis - from Inverness, was convicted of sexual offences after an 11-year campaign of abusing women children, and was jailed for 15 years.

Jade did not know meeting Avis would bring her into a decade-long, controlling and abusive relationship and land her at the centre of a story that involved a fake death plot, an international manhunt and a high court trial.

Avis would subject Jade to a campaign of physical violence and abuse throughout their relationship and went on to rape her at his house known as the 'Wolves Den'.

Jade Skea, from Inverness, spoke out for the first time on how she helped bring Scottish rapist Kim Avis to justice in BBC documentary

Jade's nightmare began in the early 2000s when Avis had a jewellery stall in the heart of Inverness which she used to visit with friends.

She recalled that Avis was well-known in the town for his charity fundraising - including ambitious swims of Loch Ness - and was regularly featured in the local press.

'It was almost like he was a local sort of celebrity, he was invited to award ceremonies, he was constantly in the press for some reason or another,' Jade said.

'When I was 15 he kissed me in the street and picked me up and spun me around. At the time I was shocked by it because it came out of the blue.'

In 2005 Jade, who was 15 years old at the time, became 42-year-old Avis' girlfriend.

'We went out for a drive, we hadn't got far up the road and he put his hand down my top. I remember thinking that was very forward, but I didn't think it was a red flag at the time. I was young and naive.

'I was besotted with him. He wasn't like other adults. We kind of felt like he was one of us.'

As their relationship got more serious, Avis isolated her from family and friends and moved her into a static caravan outside Inverness, which no-one visited but him.

In 2005 Jade, who was 15 years old at the time, became Avis' girlfriend- he was 42 years old

He was convicted of 14 charges in total, with the offences taking place mostly in Inverness between 2006 and 2017, including a charge of failing to attend a previous trial date after he fled to America

'Every friendship I had, he destroyed,' she recalled. 'He had been sending threats and telling me people had said things about me.

'I didn't drive at the time so I was just quite isolated there because I couldn't really go anywhere.

'Looking back now, I know that part of the plan was to just have me cut off from everything.'

Before long, Jade saw the other side of Avis, saying he likened himself 'to predatory animals'.

Jade said: 'He came to visit me one night, and he was just acting quite erratically, and he was upset about something.

'He got on top of a picnic table that was outside the caravan, and he started howling, and just making bizarre animal noises.'

Jade said that after this, Avis raped her for the first time and became quite volatile with her.

As their relationship got more serious, Avis isolated her from family and friends and moved her into a static caravan outside Inverness, which no-one visited but him

In 2015, after years of violence, Jade decided to take action after he raped her again and she went to the police

'I remember just feeling like that was just kind of the end. This was going to be my life forever,' Jade said.

One night the violence got worse and he smacked her head off a headboard and started punching her. He then stabbed himself in the leg to blame it on Jade.

She said he would often slam her head off walls and once, when she was pregnant, he threw her down a set of stairs.

'He wouldn't let me go anywhere,' she said. 'He would follow me around. I couldn't even go to the toilet. He would stand outside the door. He repeatedly destroyed my phones.'

In 2015, after years of violence, Jade decided to take action after Avis raped her again and she went to the police.

She said: 'I didn't have any friends or people that were supporting me. But I knew at that point that I had to do that, there was no other option.

'He never thought that I would ever report him to the police. I don't think that he thought that I had that in me. He was probably quite shocked.'

And Jade wasn't alone. Three other women had come forward to tell their stories of how Avis had raped and abused them over decades. Two of them were children at the time of the abuse.

'When other people came forward, at that point it's just completely unravelling for him,' Jade said.

Avis appeared in court charged with multiple rapes and sexual assaults against four women. He was released on bail and a trial date was set for March 2019.

Kim Avis had quickly sold his Wolves' Den property for 245,000, bought a plane ticket and arrived at Monastery Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

There were reported sightings of Avis all over the California coast in the days following his disappearance

The problem was, he wouldn't be there. Kim Avis had quickly sold his Wolves' Den property for 245,000, bought a plane ticket and arrived at Monastery Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.

This place, known locally as 'Mortuary Beach' due to frequent drownings in its waters, would be where Avis would attempt to fake his death.

'He had nothing to lose at that point. If he's got nothing to lose, you just don't know what he is capable of, because he is completely unhinged,' Jade said.

Avis's eldest son, who was with him the US, reported him missing. But after a three-day search, it became clear the drowning was a hoax and a serial rapist was on the loose.

There were reported sightings of Avis all over the California coast in the days following his disappearance.

One witness described Avis as a 'crazy Scotsman', another spoke of how the missing man was heading for Montana where he had bought property.

Months later, a mysterious man with an unusual accent arrived at a stall selling rocks and gemstones in the mountains near Colorado Springs, about 1,300 miles from where Avis went missing.

The man, who said his name was Cameron MacGregor, spent about $3,000 at the stall, which was run by a woman called Angie.

The man claimed to be Scottish and sported an unfinished giant wolf tattoo across his back.

Angie got to know the man better and she said he looked rough around the edges but always had plenty of cash.

'He was really elusive, I knew something was wrong. He was always throwing money around. He'd buy everybody food and he might have been buying friends', Angie told Disclosure.

More than two years after going missing off the coast of California, he was convicted of rape and sexual offences against four women and jailed for 15 years. He was taken to HMP Edinburgh, where he remains today

After he told Angie he was a US citizen, she said: 'Well let me see your passport'.

He refused and drove off in a rage.

'I'm like, ''This is strange, this is really peculiar, he's talking about a witch hunt, something isn't right here",' she said.

Angie no longer believed Cameron MacGregor was who he said he was so she took a picture of his car license plates.

'I had a police friend and I said, "Will you run these plates".'

Angie said she then got a call from the US Marshals, a government agency that hunts fugitives across state lines.

'They said: ''Stay away from him, he's dangerous",' she recalled. 'They asked me where he frequents, what do I know about him.'

The US Marshals now had various tip offs, sightings, and financial transactions in the area too. Then another call put Avis in a motel.

Backed up by local police, the Marshals covered every possible escape route for hours while they waited for him to surface.

His last moments of freedom were captured on body cameras worn by the local police.

He was processed in Denver before being moved to a federal prison to await extradition to Scotland.

When he was arrested, Avis had over $50,000 in cash, plus gold coins. He also had a brand new van he'd bought in the US.

Angie said they could not release it back to him and so she was granted power of attorney over his belongings and got a cheque for $50,000 and his van.

She ended up selling the van for $20,000 and sent most of the other cash back to Avis. He says he never got a dime.

While he was in federal prison, Angie visited him three times. Avis had no idea she was likely behind his arrest.

On her last visit, after Avis was returned to prison in Scotland, she decided to let him in on a secret.

'I said, "You know what, I'm the one that turned your plates in". He was p***ed. I said: "You don't understand. You lied to the wrong American girl".'

After months on the run, an international manhunt, and a media circus, Avis was back home to face justice.

More than two years after going missing off the coast of California, he was convicted of rape and sexual offences against four women and jailed for 15 years. He was taken to HMP Edinburgh, where he remains today.

'I don't think he should ever be released,' Jade said. 'He is a danger to anyone that he is in contact with in some way. He will absolutely ruin anyone that he's around long enough.

'And I don't think that, you know, he should ever, ever be out in public again.'

Disclosure: Dead Man Running, is available on BBC iPlayer from Wednesday 27th March
A food scientist has revealed what he believes to be the secret recipe behind Birds Eye potato waffles their signature shape.

Speaking on Channel 5's The 1980s Supermarket - which airs its first of three episodes tonight at 9pm - Dr Christopher Clarke experimented with making the nostalgic lunchbox treats himself.

However, he noted that when simply trying to fry up some good old fashioned mash in a mold - he simply ends up with a 'waffly mess'.

The programme said that while 'while food manufactures are really tight-lipped about their trade secrets', it's likely that the key secret is mixing in a special chemical, which is known for giving plants their shape.

'This is hydroxypropyl methylcellulose,' Dr Clarke explained, 'And it is a stabiliser. It's a kind of gummy gelatinous substance.

A food scientist has revealed what he believes to be the secret recipe behind Birds Eye potato waffles their signature shape

'This stuff is what helps to give plants their structure. And when mixed with our mash, it should help it hold its shape when molded.'

In his experiment, the food expert mixed some mash up with the jelly-esque liquid and added a splash of vegetable oil before putting everything into a waffle mold.

'This stuff works a treat with partial cooking,' he added, revealing that cooking the waffles in advance activates the cellulose stabiliser, which then strengthens and sets the waffle into shape before its frozen.

The result is a non-sticky, non-crumbly success. According to the Birds Eye website, potato waffles use an ingredient called 'Stabiliser (E464)#', which they say is 'derived from a natural plant material'.

'We use it to control the level of fat absorbed by the waffles and to maintain their shape & texture,' the description added.

According to Open Food Facts, E464 is a type of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose which is also often used to help stabilise the structure of gluten-free alternatives.

Andy Houghton - former senior manager for Iceland and Bejams - said that demand for potato waffles, which were first launched in 1981, was 'huge' in the 80s.

'Sales were bonkers,' he added. 'If you sold out of potato waffles, you were gonna have a bad day.'

Speaking on Channel 5 's The 1980s Supermarket - which airs tomorrow at 9pm - Dr Christopher Clarke experimented with making the nostalgic lunchbox treats himself

However, he noted that when simply trying to fry up some good old fashioned mash in a mold - he simply ends up with a 'waffly mess'

The Channel 5 programme also took a nostalgic look back at beloved lunchtime staples in the 1980s - including Club bars, Billy Sausage and Quiche Lorraine. Pictured: TV chef Rustie Lee makes a classic 80s pineapple upside down cake

Rustie pictured with her version of Quiche Lorraine - yet another 80s staple. The programme looked back at retro foods in the 80s

The Channel 5 programme also took a nostalgic look back at beloved lunchtime staples in the 1980s - including Club bars, Billy Sausage and Quiche Lorraine.

'Before the 80s, convenience food was really seen as something of a luxury,' retail journalist Claire Bailey explained in the show.

'Things like the Vesta Ready Meals, McCain oven chips, Chicken Kyivs, there were things that only people perhaps with double income in the family could afford.

'By the 80s, convenience food was becoming much more affordable. Manufacturing processes had become much more efficient.

'Things were less unionised in the labour markets and we were importing from overseas.

'And these factors pushed costs down.'
A Manchester beer festival has been likened to Glasgow's ill-fated Willy Wonka experience after customer complaints about the 'most disappointing beer event ever.'

The first International Brewing and Cider (IBC) Festival, which was a two-day ticketed event with prices starting from 20 and going up to 90, was held at the Depot Mayfield Manchester, last weekend.

However organisers were forced to apologise for the 'less than perfect experience' after a string of complaints about rude staff, cold conditions and a poor atmosphere.

Saying the event was 'steep learning curve', organisers said 'learnings and feedback will be taken into account.'

People took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share their frustration with some drawing comparisons to the disastrous Willy Wonka event, which became a viral sensation and the subject of a TV documentary after families were greeted with a 'near-empty warehouse'.

The first International Brewing and Cider (IBC) Festival, which was a two-day ticketed event with prices starting from 20.00, was held at the Depot Mayfield Manchester, last weekend but it drew similarities to Glasgow 's ill-fated Willy Wonka experience

One person wrote: 'I don't think I've been to a worse organised event. The term 'Couldn't organise a pi** up in a brewery' was made for this festival.

'Mid session there were less than 100 people. The signs on the cask and keg were too small to read at any distance.

He continued: 'People pouring on the bar had no knowledge of any of the beers and no info in the app.'

The disgruntled drinker said he felt 'ripped off' after paying the 20 entry fee 'to drink out of plastic' and complained about beer costing 'town prices'.

'Some of the brewers had packed up and left hours before the end,' he added.

Another said: 'The most disappointing beer event ever. I had three beers which all tasted like a plastic cup. One went in the sink, one a mate finished for me, third went in the urinal. Left before we had been there two hours.

'Least these organisers can do is provide an apology to us and the proprietors, as they too seemed to have been let down by the own thing.

'The Wonka of beer festivals. I paid 43 to get in. I'll get over the financial cost but distrust such events in future.'

The IBC replied: 'We are very sorry that you had a less than perfect experience at the International Brewing & Cider Awards Festival. This was our first festival and everything was not perfect.

Organisers were forced to apologize for the 'less than perfect experience' after the event was riddled with complaints about rude staff, cold conditions and a poor atmosphere

Meanwhile Manchester-based beer writer Matthew Curtis told the BBC he estimated crowds to be no bigger than 50 to 100 at any time, saying the atmosphere was 'very muted'

Another customer took to X to share a slew of snaps from the empty warehouse and to complain to IBC festival calling the event a 'shambles'

One snap showed a large warehouse space decorated in fairy lights but very few customers

Another snap showed a craft beer vendor with just one customer using tables as a countertop

Meanwhile the stage was lit up and ready for the band to play but it appeared they didn't have a big crowd to perform to

'We are a not-for-profit trade organisation representing the value chain supplying the brewing and beverage industry and organiser of the oldest international brewing and cider awards in the world.

'As a first time Festival we underwent a steep learning curve & believe we adapted to deliver a better model as the event progressed. Certainly, should we organise a Festival to follow the 2026 Awards all of our learnings and your feedback will be taken into account. IBC Fest Team'

Matt Turner-Allen, from Bolton, said he paid 38.50 for a ticket that came with six tokens - but only for half pints of selected drinks.

Speaking to BBC News he said he was surprised at how quiet it was and found the venue to be 'freezing'.

'It is an old brick structure at the end of March, which if it is packed is fine but this was just not the right venue. I texted my boss in Glasgow, and I said this is the Willy Wonka festival of Manchester.'

People took to X, formerly known as Twitter , to share their frustration at the 'most disappointing beer event ever'

Organisers said the event was 'steep learning curve', organisers said 'learnings and feedback will be taken into account'

Meanwhile Manchester-based beer writer Matthew Curtis told the BBC he estimated crowds to be no bigger than 50 to 100 at any time, saying the atmosphere was 'very muted'.

Freddy Hardy, co-founder of independent Manchester brewery Courier Brewing Co. said a low turnout in such a large venue meant 'the vibe just wasn't there', saying he only sold beer to around 20 people - 10 of whom he believed to be other people from the industry.

Another customer took to X to share a slew of snaps from the empty warehouse and to complain to IBC festival calling the event a 'shambles'.

On the IBC website the event was described as 'a weekend filled with camaraderie, live music, mouthwatering food trucks, and most importantly, well-crafted beer and exceptional cider.'

The event description read: 'Offering a rare opportunity for the public to taste a vast range of local, national and international drinks, including award-winning beers and ciders from The International Brewing & Cider Awards.

'The Festival is being organised by the worlds most historic international beer and cider competition, The International Brewing & Cider Awards, which will relocate to Manchester having been hosted at The National Brewery Centre in Burton-upon-Trent for the last decade.

'For the first time in its 137-year history, the Awards will be accompanied by a public festival, and represents a significant milestone in the Awards commitment to promoting and supporting the brewing and cider industries.

Police were called to an 'immersive' Willy Wonka event in Glasgow after it was cancelled halfway through

Furious parents slammed the 35-a-ticket event in Glasgow as 'an absolute shambles' after being promised 'a universe where your dreams come true'

The Mail Online has contacted the International Brewing and Cider Festival.

It comes after parents were left furious when they turned up to an 'immersive' Willy Wonka event and their children were left sobbing when it turned out to be a tiny bouncy castle and a small lollipop.

Irate parents slammed the 35-a-ticket event in Glasgow as 'an absolute shambles' after being promised 'a universe where your dreams come true' and would 'make memories that will last a lifetime'.

Just 24 hours before 'Willy's Chocolate Experience' at the Boxhub, organisers House of Illuminati posted pictures of a van full of props and said 'it's all coming together nicely'.

Families were left stunned when they arrived and were greeted with a near-empty warehouse with a few Wonka-themed props and a small bouncy castle, leaving distraught children in floods of tears.

The event was cancelled halfway through on Saturday as angered mothers, fathers and grandparents demanded refunds. Organisers have promised to give people their money back.
World Cheese Day is celebrated by cheese lovers across the globe on March 27

Today, cheese lovers around the world are raising their glasses, crackers, and knives in celebration of World Cheese Day - and this brain teaser challenge adds an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.

The event started in 2001 as a national commemoration in France to celebrate one of its most famed food products, and has since spiralled into a celebration across the globe.

World Cheese Day, observed on March 27 each year, serves as the perfect occasion to indulge in the rich and diverse world of cheese.

Whether it's the creamy texture of brie, the sharp bite of cheddar, or the distinctive tang of blue cheese, cheese lovers around the globe are coming together to celebrate their shared love for the beloved dairy delight.

To commemorate the occasion, 888Casino has challenged cheese enthusiasts to put their sharp senses to the test with a perplexing puzzle.

To commemorate World Cheese Day, 888Casino has challenged cheese enthusiasts to put their sharp senses to the test with a perplexing puzzle and locate the piece of Blue cheese

Every second counts while you hunt for a single piece of blue cheese in this cheesy conundrum, as you're only given a limited amount of time to locate it!

In this animated image, a striking array of various cheeses are on display, including pieces of Swiss, gouda, mozzarella, cheddar, feta and parmesan.

However, nestled inside the labyrinth of creamy, crumbly, grainy and gooey goodness lies a solitary piece of blue cheese.

Challengers are required locate the solitary piece of blue cheese hidden within the sea of other cheeses in just 15 seconds.

Those who successfully locate the prized blue cheese within the allotted 15 seconds are not only crowned champions of the challenge - but also surpass the national average, showcasing remarkable cheese-spotting prowess.

So, where is the piece of edible mouldy cheese located? Well, if you look to the right hand side of the image and zoom in, you may be able to spot it.

Above the middle and toward the top of the picture, the piece of blue cheese can be faintly seen burrowed between a pentagon of dark and light yellow-coloured Swiss cheese pieces, gouda slices and feta cubes.

Above the middle and toward the top of the picture, the piece of Blue cheese can be seen burrowed between a pentagon of Swiss cheese pieces, gouda slices and feta cubes

It comes after another mind-boggling optical illusion challenged puzzlers to find the hidden details in a picture of a black tree set against a white background.

The image looks deceptively simple at first. However, there are five hidden animals within the monochromatic image, made more difficult to spot as the colour has been removed.

To take on the challenge, simply set a timer for 20 seconds and cast your eyes in between the branches.

If you can find all five of the animals before time runs out, you could have a higher IQ than most.

Challenging yourself to the a visual teaser is a great way to put your brain power and some of your senses to work.

This mind-boggling optical illusion could reveal if you have a high IQ - all you have to do is spot some hidden details

However, if this one is leaving you scratching your head, here are a few clues:

All five of the animals you're looking for are birds

Three are smaller and two are bigger

Three animals are on the left side of the tree

If you're still struggling to spot all the hidden creatures, stop scrolling now as the answers will be revealed in the image below.

The animals you had to spot were three smaller chicks and two roosters, which are now shaded in orange for you to see.

If you didn't manage to solve the mind-warping puzzle this time, don't worry as there are plenty more brain teasers and illusions to try.

Revealed: The animals you had to spot were three smaller chicks and two roosters, which are now shaded in orange for you to see

Another optical illusion can allegedly reveal a person's true personality depending on what animal they spot first.

The black and white picture, shared by Times Now, depicts both a cat and a mouse.

The test can reveal whether a person is independent and curious or has a more cautious personality.

Simply glance at the below image and see which animal catches your eye first, then read on to find out what it means.

If your eyes naturally wandered to the black cat, which is the largest part of the image, it means your personality traits are similar to that of the feline animal.

The black and white picture, shared by Times Now , depicts two animals - which one you see first will determine your biggest traits

You are independent and curious, while also being mysterious and playful.

Similar to most pet cats, you don't rely on others and prefer to do things yourself.

You're curious by nature and always looking to learn new things and ask more questions.

You can easily switch between work and play and you often lure others in with your mysterious personality.

If you saw the mouse first, which is smaller on the page, it means you are more cautious.

You may be quite shy and reserved, however this doesn't mean you aren't aware of your surroundings.

Those who saw the mouse first are observant as well as timid - they are always watching what's going on around them.

You are also adaptable and resourceful, knowing what to do when faced with problems and difficult situations.
Kirsty Young says she spent a year-and-a-half 'beautifully ignoring' symptoms of fibromyalgia because she had a life of privilege and addressing it when she had such a great career felt like 'a penthouse problem'.

The 55-year-old appeared in the latest episode of Julia Samuel's podcast Therapy Works, and revealed how her Scottish roots gave her the mentality that she should 'put your head down, shut up and keep going' despite struggling with often debilitating pain.

Young was forced to quit as the host of Radio 4's Desert Island Discs in 2019 after 12 years due to her struggles with rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.

In the episode with psychotherapist Samuel, who was a close confidant of Princess Diana, the broadcaster said seeking help felt 'self indulgent' because she had the job of her dreams and was well paid.

Appearing on the latest episode of Therapy Works, psychotherapist Julia Samuel's podcast, Kirsty Young said she 'beautifully ignored' her health issues for a year-and-a-half because she felt like it was 'self indulgent' when she had a life of privilege

The 55-year-old says the previously 'horrendous' symptoms of her condition are now largely under control but and says the illness 'changed my relationship with myself fundamentally'

In the podcast, which was filmed in a riverside apartment in West London, she told Samuel: 'I think it's very difficult when you have a very privileged life as I did at a well paid job that I loved.

'I'm not running three jobs, I'm not a cleaner and I'm not working in Aldi and I'm not collecting income support. It almost feels self indulgent...[to seek help]'.

She says she was pre-disposed genetically to get rheumatoid arthritis, which causes pain and stiffness in the joints. Fibromyalgia is a long-term chronic condition that causes pain all over the body and tiredness.

With treatment, the broadcaster has said the symptoms of both conditions are now much better controlled - but admitted she had been changed by her health problems.

She said: 'Pain is an agent of change and that literal pain I had changed my relationship with myself fundamentally.'

Young appearing with Julia Samuel, a close friend of the late Princess Diana, on the latest edition of mental health professional's podcast

Young was presenter of Desert Island Discs on Radio 4 when the illness struck, and says stress exacerbated her symptoms

Young is married to entrepreneur Nick Jones, who founded the Soho House brand, and they have two daughters, Freya and Iona. Nick also has two children, Natasha and Oliver, from a previous relationship.

Young has opened up in the past about her struggles with the health conditions and how they made her feel like she was 'going mental' when her 'horrendous' symptoms were at their worst.

Speaking on The Adam Buxton podcast last year, she said: 'It was at its worst for a couple of years. You feel like you're going mental. Quitting my job didn't make me feel like it, but the pain it starts to corrode your personality.

'You start to lose your sense of humour, you can't really cope with things that would normally wash over you.'

Kirsty first temporarily stepped down from Desert Island Discs in August 2018 before announcing her permanent departure the following year, with Lauren Laverne taking over as host.

Exit: The BBC radio DJ was forced to quit as the host of Radio 4's Desert Island Discs (pictured on the show with David Beckham) in 2019 due to her health struggles

Hard times: Kirsty told how the pain from fibromyalgia started to 'corrode' her personality and left her feeling 'like a loser' because she was left unable to do things

She said of her exit at the time: 'After 12 incredibly happy and fulfilling years on Desert Island Discs I've decided to step down permanently.

'Having been forced to take some months away from my favourite job because of health problems, I'm happy to say I'm now well on the way to feeling much better.

'But that enforced absence from the show has altered my perspective on what I should do next and so I've decided it's time to pursue new challenges.'

Kirsty had presented the show since 2006 and interviewed hundreds of guests such as Dame Kelly Holmes, Victoria Wood and Sir David Attenborough.

She presented a total of 496 episodes of the programme as well as fronting its 70th and 75th anniversary celebrations.

WHAT IS FIBROMYALGIA AND HOW IS IT TREATED? Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that is associated with widespread pain throughout the body. This occurs in an estimated five million people in the US, and 80 to 90 per cent of those are women. Researchers have looked into fibromyalgia developing due to an issue with how the brain responds to pain receptors. Symptoms Chronic pain

Fatigue

Muscle spasms

Cognitive difficulties ('fibro fog')

Sleep disruptions

Migraines Treatment Treatment is used to minimize the symptoms, not to rid the body of the disorder. There is a variety of medications to help treat pain, sleep problems and muscle spasms. People can also turn to therapy, messages, acupuncture and yoga to see if it helps lessen the symptoms. There is no current cure for the chronic disorder. Source: Mayo Clinic Advertisement
Harry Potter stars Rupert Grint and Jessie Cave sent fans wild over the weekend as they recreated an famous scene from the wizarding franchise.

Rupert, now 35, and Jessie, 36, played Ron Weasley and Lavender Brown in all seven film.

In the sixth film, Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince (2009), Lavender and Ron begin a relationship, while he battles his feelings for Hermione Granger.

Lavender, a fellow Gryffindor, is known for being clingy and obsessive - and at one point gifts Ron a necklace shaped like a pierced heart as a sign of her never-ending affection.

Rupert and Jessie sent fans wild as they recreated the shot from the film 15 years on - looking remarkably similar to their younger selves despite being only 21 and 22 during filming.

Harry Potter stars Rupert Grint and Jessie Cave sent fans wild over the weekend as they recreated an iconic scene from the famous wizarding franchise

Back then: Jessie and Rupert played Lavender Brown and Ron Weasley in the 2009 film Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

The clip has racked up a massive 15.6 million views and shows a laughing Jessie placing the necklace around Rupert's neck, as he pulled a very Ron-esque sheepish expression.

Dream It Conventions, who posted the clip, captioned the post: 'Lavender Brown reunited with her Won-won [Lavender's nickname for Ron in the films] this weekend at our #ETWW convention!'

Viewers were blown away by the reunion - and all commented that Jessie 'hasn't aged' at all: 'She has NOT aged';

'She still looks GORGEOUS'; 'I AM LOVING THIS HARRY POTTER REUNION';

'Jessie Cave has been cooking as an artist, writer, comic, actress and a mother this whole time.'

Rupert and Jessie also posed with their co-stars for a reunion of Gryffindor House, as fans rushed to pose for photos.

Passes to the event cost 119 euros before extras such as selfies and autographs with the stars.

Viewers were blown away by the reunion - and all commented that Jessie 'hasn't aged' at all

The pair were at a Dream It Convention and were joined by their co-stars including Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom), James and Oliver Phelps (the Weasley twins), Alfred Enoch (Dean Thomas) and Devon Murray (Seamus Finnigan).

Photo opportunities with Rupert cost 145 euros - plus tax and a service fee - with an autograph standing at 135 euros.

Selfies with the other castmates were significantly cheaper: 75 euros for one with Matthew Lewis and 120 for James and Oliver Phelps. Meanwhile a group photoshoot with the cast cost 375 euros.

Jessie recently made headlines for hitting back after Miriam Margolyes told Harry Potter fans they should 'get over' the series.

The British star has said the actress, 82, who played Professor Sprout, 'doesn't understand' the impact of the books on people's lives and said her comments were 'terrible'.

Earlier this month, Ms Margolyes took a swipe at grown-up fans of the books and films, saying: 'I worry about Harry Potter fans because they should be over that by now.

'It was 25 years ago. Grow up. It's for children but they get stuck in it.'

Speaking at the convention in Paris, Jessie said: 'I think it's terrible.

'I really don't like that she said that. It's such an amazing thing that Harry Potter has done.

The stars were also joined by Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom), Alfred Enoch (Dean Thomas) and Devon Murray (Seamus Finnigan; all pictured left to right)

Jessie recently hit back after Miriam Margolyes told Harry Potter fans they should 'get over it' (pictured in 2021)

'It's created a fan base that has aged and is still bonded through it and it's passed on to younger generations and that's what is so amazing.

'She probably just doesn't understand that or get that. Just let her be. I think this situation is very unusual.'

Rupert has been married to Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging actress Georgia Groome since 2011 and the couple share a three-year-old daughter, Wednesday.

Since Harry Potter he has had various acting roles, including in the ABC Murders and Postman Pat: The Movie.

Jessie, who is also an illustrator, welcomed her fourth child Becker with long-term partner Alfie Brown in March 2022.

She previously admitted that her children are 'mortified' that she kissed Ron Weasley, after the family re-watched the films during lockdown.

She told Closer magazine: 'During lockdown, we got through all of them.

'I asked them, 'What's your favourite bit about Harry Potter?' hoping they would say, 'You, mummy' - but they find me quite embarrassing in it!'

Earlier this month, Ms Margolyes took a swipe at grown-up fans of the books and films, saying: 'I worry about Harry Potter fans because they should be over that by now'

Jessie played Lavender Brown in the Harry Potter series, best known for being Ron's girlfriend

She added: 'It changed the course of my life. You're only ever [as good as] your last job, so it was such an amazing stepping stone, and I don't know what my career would have been like without it.'

The mother-of-four has since starred in various West End productions and also performs comedy sets across London.

Jessie made her first appearance in 2009's Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, when she was 22.

She reprised her role in the Deathly Hallows Part I and II, which were filmed together a year later.

Jessie beat over 7,000 other girls to secure her role as Lavender after attending an open casting call.
I blame Oscar Wilde; reading him at a formative age, his line There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about stuck in my head.

So a part of me really thought I was doing my classmates a favour when, as a precocious pubescent, I spread stories about them to others with the invariable overture promise you wont tell, but

For one lovely springtime, I was the muck-spreading equivalent of those plate-spinners you saw in variety shows. Then I caught laryngitis (probably from all that poison I was peddling) and was off school for a month.

When I went back, I learnt all my gossiping had been found out, and no one in my class would speak to me. Far from being bothered or repentant, I found it gave me even more time to read unsuitable books. Besides, Ive always adored my own company.

The Princess of Wales talking about her cancer diagnosis last week

Still, I should have learned my lesson, but going straight from school into journalism wasnt really conducive to that. I was a shy girl when I first entered the louche world of newspapers; when gossiping, I could pose as the wicked woman of the world I passionately wanted to be.

But Ive always felt OK behaving this way because, being extremely thick-skinned myself (insensitive, even), I have stayed true to the if-you-give-it-out-youd-better-take-it school of thought. Ive always despised those two-faced types who love a bit of back-biting until theyre the subject, when they suddenly turn all #BeKind.

Im genuinely not fussed what people say about me. I didnt even sue when a newspaper accused me of being in love with Osama bin Laden. Indeed, when I had a little too much time on my hands at the turn of the century, I would occasionally nip onto online message boards and start a rumour about myself.

But after seeing the Princess of Wales talking about her cancer diagnosis last week, I felt an emotion that is generally alien to me: shame.

Like many of us, I heard rumours from a social media acquaintance about William and Kate that cast neither of them in a good light, and then I repeated them, twice. It wasnt a lot, and it wasnt the worst, and I didnt go berserk with the craziest kind of conspiracy theories.

Yet while I would have felt no such guilt about spreading similar rumours about the studs and starlets of showbiz, who have pursued fame so shamelessly, the princess is different. This wasnt some reality TV drama being played out for attention; this is someones life.

I was left asking myself, if I was prepared to add to the sorrow of a frail woman of just 42 preparing her three young children for an uncertain future, whose am I not prepared to add to?

Its an uncomfortable position to find oneself in, even for me. And if I am happy to spread rumours in this way, can I really claim to be a Christian?

So, after a lifetime of trash-talking, it has made me feel determined to stop saying things that are neither personal opinion or fact  in short, gossiping.

You may be left wondering if such a vow is really a sacrifice, but for someone who has so long savoured gossip, it certainly is a sea-change. Even if I cant claim my love of tittle-tattle has always served me well.

If I think back to the gossip Ive passed on over the years, none of it concerning famous people that Ive heard from a friend of a friend has ever turned out to be true.

Julie Burchill writes that she kidded herself she was somehow being noble by gossiping

(Apart from the one about the girl who woke up next to an extraordinarily ugly but very successful 90s pop star after an ill-advised one night stand. Rather than wake him up  fearing that a repeat performance might be called for she let herself out of his mansion only to find a sweeping drive in front of her, at the end of which were a pair of high and locked gates. She stood there desolate until after ten minutes a police car passed by, reversed and stopped; a policewoman jumped out, laughing, and punched in the opening code. Apparently it happened so often the pop star had given his local police force the numbers himself.)

Even when I kidded myself I was somehow being noble by gossiping, I was often doing more harm than good. No, I will not shut her out of my social circle, I scolded a friend who wanted us to permanently swerve another pal of ours.

She is an escort and deserves our compassion. The first friend had no idea the second one was a sex worker until then.

So why do I do it? The political campaign manager Ben Wallace once said of a certain Cabinet member that he had an emotional need to gossip, particularly when drink is taken.

Which at least gives him some sort of excuse; my own rationale is far less worthy of pity  I like to amuse.

Because I tell my husband everything (and have done for the nearly 30 years Ive known him) my friendships tend to be about me entertaining people rather than confiding in them; its the same reason I would far rather take people out to restaurants than ever go to their homes.

I decided somewhere during my poor-but-honest childhood that should I ever get the chance, Id make life into a party, and somehow  shamefully  idly toying with the actual stuff of peoples lives has become as careless as ordering another round of drinks.

I cant pretend Ill be sitting around crying into my Long Island Iced Tea thinking about all the people Ive wronged with my gossiping ways these past decades. For all I know, they were gossiping about me, too.

But I am trying to turn over a new leaf. My friend James has tried to initiate gossip with me twice recently and both times Ive come back with I cant possibly comment. He finds this highly amusing, but perhaps Ill have the last laugh.

Because Id like to be remembered as something more than an ever-streaming sewer of salacious gossip  even if it has been a lot of fun.
An advert for a London rental property has sparked outrage online after the tenants outlined a very strict list of requirements for their prospective flatmates.

Earlier this week, Natty Kasambala, a writer from London, posted screenshots of the Dalston flat listing on X, formerly known as Twitter, after she spotted it on a Facebook group.

The listing, which was written by the couple who currently live there, explained how they're looking for a person who 'hates overly fried dishes' and whose toiletries can fit in a 'single wooden box' to occupy the spare room.

Describing the property, they wrote: 'We are looking for a professional to occupy a spacious bedroom in a two-bed flat.

'The room comes furnished [...] The flat has very high ceilings, wooden floors and big windows. It is a southeast-facing flat that becomes annoyingly bright during the day.'

An advert for a London rental property has sparked outrage online after the tenants outlined a very strict list of requirements. Pictured: stock image of Dalston

The listing (pictured), which was written by the couple who currently live there, explained how they're looking for a person who 'hates overly fried dishes' and whose toiletries can fit in a 'single wooden box' to occupy the spare room

Outlining their dream flatmate, the couple continued: 'You will be considerate, tidy and clean, preferably with a minimalist attitude.

'You will have your own tableware, kitchen utensils and pans, which must fit in a cupboard assigned to you.

'You will hate overly fried dishes that stink the place up. Your personal belongings in the bathroom must fit in a wooden box provided.'

Admitting that this might sound 'stringest', they added: 'We are trying to keep the flat clutter-free as this flat doesn't have storage space and everything is exposed.'

Giving insight into their lives, the pair continued: 'You will be sharing with a professional couple. We smoke in the flat and there might be cat(s) around as I sometimes catsit.'

They signed off the post by writing: 'No deposit required but at least a two-week notice should you wish to move out at any point.'

Shocked by the bizarre requirements, Natty shared the post with her X followers, which has now been viewed by almost 650,000 users.

She wrote: 'A genuine ad for a 1000 room in Dalston. Why do I feel suffocated in my own home just reading this?'

Natty shared the post with her X followers, which has now been viewed by almost 650,000 users

One outraged user replied: 'Why do I feel like if my flannel or shampoo poked out the top of the box, they'd just throw it away while I was out and then act like it was fault?'

Another added: 'When i see things like this im actually grateful for their transparency because theres just *no way* Im living with someone who is scared of a little smelly food.'

'We are looking for a PROFESSIONAL not some silly little annoying student,' a third joked. 'We ourselves will be acting like the worlds most annoying college roommates though.'

A fourth joked: 'They are vampires. The fried food thing is just a cover for no garlic. The wooden box is a coffin. The ash you see isn't from their cigs, it's from when the flat got too annoyingly bright.'

Meanwhile, a fifth took issue with the tenants not wanting their flatmate to cook 'smelly food' when they smoke inside - writing: 'Hate when overly fried food block the dank ciggy smell in a flat x'

'Everyone reading this should book a viewing and then cancel it 10 minutes prior,' another joked.
Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-76Q arrives at Los Angeles international Airport on July 30, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Frequent flyers on this major Texas-based commercial flight carrier will be able to say they're "catching the red-eye" as the airline adds flights to its services for the first time ever. Southwest Airlines confirmed to MySA in an emailed statement that the company will start the overnight flights in the future in an effort to boost business.

"Weve previously shared plans to start overnight flying as we look to increase revenue while providing additional service to our customers," the airline says in the statement. "Before these flights can begin, there's a wide range of work that needs to be completed which is anticipated to take place over the next few years."

A red-eye flight is when a carrier flies out from one destination late at night to arrive early in the morning, according to Forbes. The flights are generally less than seven hours, which isn't a considerable amount of time to sleep, which is where the term "red eye" comes from.

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The statement confirms an earlier report from the Washington Post that said Southwest's Chief Commercial Officer Ryan Green told attendees at a March 18-21 travel conference that they will add the red-eye flights to its services. He said at the conference that he sees Southwest adding about 50 red-eye flights per day in two years, starting out of Las Vegas and Hawaii.
The Crown star Josh O'Connor has reacted to the Princess of Wales' shock cancer diagnosis and blasted 'sad' conspiracy theorists online.

The Princess of Wales, 42, announced last week in an emotional video message that she is undergoing 'preventative' chemotherapy after cancer was discovered following her major abdominal surgery earlier this year.

Last night, actor Josh O'Connor - who played King Charles in seasons three and four of The Crown - attended the premiere of his new film Challengers in Sydney, Australia, with co-stars Zendaya and Mike Faist.

Speaking to 9Honey, the actor, 33, from Cheltenham, said he 'always feels so sorry' for the Royal Family having to make public statements during difficult moments like this.

He said: 'I know it's part of their job, but they're born into it. And the way everyone was talking about Kate, I found really sad.'

Pictured: Josh O'Connor attends the premiere of his new movie Challengers in Syndey last night

'But I just hope she's all right, and everyone's thinking of her and sending her good wishes.'

Kate's announcement that she has cancer followed weeks of cruel speculation on platforms including X, Instagram and TikTok, where trolls shared mocking posts and memes about her whereabouts.

The news sparked grovelling apologies from the likes of left-wing journalist Owen Jones and the actress Blake Lively, who expressed sorrow for ill-judged remarks they had made online.

Reshma Saujani, the founder of Girls Who Code who collaborated with Meghan Markle for a campaign to change the perception of mothers on TV, said she felt 'disgusted' with herself for joining in with speculation about Kate.

They were joined by scores of social media users and TikTok influencers who apologised for revelling in vile conspiracy theories and said they felt 'guilty' and 'terrible' now they knew the true reason for Kate's absence from public life.

But far more rushed to cover their tracks by deleting evidence of their previous posts. Others stayed silent, with critics piling on the likes of Kim Kardashian and demanding they apologise for mocking the princess.

Earlier this month, Kardashian shared a photo of her getting into a car with the caption 'On my way to go find Kate'.

Last Friday, the Princess of Wales announced she has been diagnosed with cancer in an emotional video message

Pictured: Josh O'Connor with Olivia Colman starring in season four of Netflix's The Crown TV drama

Critical comments have now begun piling up under the post, with one follower writing 'I think an apology is needed!' and another telling her 'you should probably take this down'.

Owen Jones was one of a series of high-profile figures to speculate about Kate's whereabouts.

Reacting to a post on X that revealed photography agencies were pulling Kate's Mother's Day photo after it emerged the image had been edited, he wrote: 'Oh wow. Ok I am now fully on board the Kate Middleton truther train.'

He then responded: 'This is insane' when evidence of the picture being adapted on Photoshop were shared by another X user.

Later, reacting to new agency AFP's 'kill notice' announcement, he wrote: 'I am so obsessed with this already omg!!'

Kim Kardashian shared this picture on Instagram earlier this month with the caption: 'On my way to find Kate'

Critical comments have begun piling up under the post, calling on the TV personality to apologise

Blake Lively previously shared this obviously doctored image of herself to promote her drinks brand

The actress is among a small number of high-profile figures who have apologised for their remarks

Jones then aired his doubts about a photograph of Kate and Prince William in a car together that was shared the next day, commenting: 'You have to be kidding me. That is not a public appearance. Choo choo! All aboard the Kate Middleton truther express!'

He tweeted: 'As someone who speculated on this without considering it could be a serious health condition, I'm very ashamed to be honest, and all the very best to her.'

Meanwhile, Blake Lively shared her regrets for an ill-advised jibe about photoshop before Kate's diagnosis was revealed.

She had previously shared an obviously edited photo of herself alongside a post promoting her drinks brand.

The 36-year-old said last week: 'I'm sure no one cares today but I feel like I have to acknowledge this. I made a silly post around the 'photoshop fails' frenzy, and oh man, that post has me mortified today. I'm sorry. Sending love and well wishes to all, always.'

Today, Queen Camilla revealed during a walkabout in Shrewsbury that her daughter-in-law is 'thrilled' by the support she has received from the public.

Responding to a royal fan holding a sign reading 'send our love to Kate', the Queen replied: 'I know that Catherine is thrilled by all the kind wishes and support.'
A month after succeeding to the throne aged 47 in 2005, Albert was in for a shock as one of his closely kept secrets was about to be revealed to the world.

For few knew, the prince had enjoyed a secret six-year relationship with a glamorous ex-Air France attendant who had also given birth to his son around 18 months earlier, in 2003.

The relationship between Nicole Coste and the Prince began following a chance encounter on a flight from Nice to Paris in 1997.

Albert was said to have been enchanted by the flight attendant who served him champagne.

Nicole Coste, an Air France air hostess turned fashion designer, and her former lover Prince Albert at an event in April 2002

'The strange thing is that I wasn't even supposed to be on the flight,' Nicole told the Mail on Sunday in 2014. 'I was on standby that day and was filling in for a colleague.

'I always served in First Class so I was accustomed to dealing with VIPs. When I saw Albert our eyes met and I knew this was different. There was definitely an aura around him and we hit it off immediately.

'I found him attractive with a twinkle in his eye. He asked for my number. I didn't write it on a napkin but on proper paper from the First Class cabin. I think he knew I wasn't intimidated by him, that I felt comfortable in his presence.

Albert would later call and ask her to come to Monaco for the weekend. Although flattered by the attention Nicole was determined not to be a plaything.

'I was determined that we wouldn't make love until we got to know each other better. Albert respected that. I was no gold-digger. If anything, I bought him gifts,' she said.

Their liaison became the best-kept secret among Monaco society. Although they both attended red carpet events and mixed with socialites and celebrities, the majority of Albert's subjects knew nothing of the relationship.

'It is not my fault I fell in love with a prince,' Nicole said.

But the relationship petered out and in its final days, Nicole discovered she was pregnant. 'When I broke the news to Albert he was fine about it,' she said.

When their son  who would be named Alexandre Grimaldi-Coste - was born, Albert provided financial allowance and moved mother and son into an exquisite villa on the French Riviera.

But fed up of being a secret, a month after the death of Prince Alberts father Prince Rainier, Nicole gave an explosive tell-all interview to French magazine Paris Match, revealing her then two-year-old son was Albert's sparking a royal scandal.

Prince Albert with his ex, Nicole Coste and their son Alexandre Grimaldi-Coste; the former lovers have remained close, with the Monegasque royal appearing with Coste at a charity event in recent years

Prince Albert was, at the time, said to be outraged by his former lovers public declaration. Nonetheless, he went on to give his own televised interview in which he formally acknowledged that Alexandre was his son having taken a DNA test.

He decreed that his illegitimate son would not inherit the throne but vowed that Alexandre would be cared for financially.

The Prince told the New York Times in 2005 that the ordeal was a very difficult moment for me.

Nicole went on to be a fashion designer and open her own a boutique in Knightsbridge, London.

Despite the furore, Prince Albert and Nicole, now 51, have remained friends, with the pair appearing at the same charity event in recent years.

But if this revelation had been testing for the Prince, he was about to be hit with another public baby bombshell.

Tamara Rotolo  the Californian waitress and the actress daughter

A year after revealing he had fathered Alexandre, Prince Albert was forced to confess he also had a daughter named Jazmin Grace Grimaldi.

She was the result of an affair with Tamara Rotolo, a waitress turned American estate agent.

According to Tamara, she met Prince Albert while holidaying on the Cote DAzur in 1991. They enjoyed a two-week fling which resulted in the birth of Jazmin Grace in 1992, but the baby was kept secret from the public.

Jazmin's mother Tamara, then a waitress, had a fling with the monarch back in 1991, while on holiday (pictured together in the same year).

Now a real estate agent based in California, Tamara Rotolo, (pictured in 2010) has encouraged her daughter's relationship with his European royal father

A friend of Tamaras said in 2005: 'Tamara was from a very ordinary, working-class background and had decided to go on one big holiday to Monaco. Albert was quite infatuated with her.

'They were together pretty much every day and night and, after her two weeks were up, he asked her to stay on. 'She told him, "I have to get back to my job". This was reality-check time.

'To her surprise, Albert did not forget her. He kept in touch by phone and she could contact him in a heart- beat, wherever he was in the world. The wall came down after Prince Rainier found out.

'All contact was cut off. First she was hurt, then she got mad and decided to go to court.'

In 1993, a judge ordered Albert to provide a blood sample to settle the paternity case. But Albert's high-powered attorneys went back to court to argue that California law had no power to order the sample. A judge agreed and ruled that the case could not go to trial.

Albert neither confirmed nor denied that he was Jazmin's father. He acknowledged in court papers: 'I was briefly acquainted with the plaintiff when she was on vacation in Monaco in July 1991.'

But the death of Prince Rainier more than ten years later, coupled with Nicoles revelation, proved to be the catalyst for fresh negotiations for lawyers and, in the summer of 2006, a year after the first love child bombshell, Prince Albert formally recognised Jazmin as his daughter.

The actress and singer didn't meet her father until she was 11 but has a close relationship with the Monaco royal now

Prince Albert and Jazmin watch the Monte-Carlo ATP Masters Series Tournament on April 19, 2018 in Monaco

A royal spokesman said at the time: We can assure everyone that there are no more hidden children. This is the last one.

Both children now carry the Grimaldi name, and while they can never accede to the throne they will be able to make a financial claim when he dies.

Talking about meeting her father for the first time when she was 11, Jazmin said in 2015: 'I wanted that moment to connect with my father, to get to know him, and to have him get to know me.

'Not having had that figure around, I missed that. It's wonderful that it happened when it did, and we've been enjoying a great relationship ever since.'

Jazmin, now 31 and an actress, revealed her close relationship with her half-brother Alexandre as she marked his 18th birthday in a sweet Instagram post.

She shared a series of Instagram posts from his birthday party in 2021, writing: 'It's a celebration. Happy birthday my little brother Alexandre!'

And last year, Prince Albert posed with his two children by former lovers for the first time.

Alexandre's existence was only made public in May 2005 when Nicole gave an explosive tell-all interview to French magazine Paris Match, claiming her then two-year-old son was Albert's. Pictured, the 19-year-old with his half-sister, Jazmin Grimaldi, who was born in 1992

Blended family! In November, a photo showed Prince Albert of Monaco II pictured in New York together for the first time with two children by two of his former lovers, Jazmin Grace Grimaldi, 31 - whose mother is American waitress Tamara Rotolo - and her half-brother Alexandre Grimaldi-Coste, 19, the son Albert shares with Nicole Coste.

The extraordinary picture, taken in New York, was shared online by his ex, Nicole. Wearing an open-necked shirt, the Prince has his arm around Jazmin who had her arm around Alexandre.

Charlene  the Olympic champion who tamed the playboy prince

It would be in 2000 that Albert first met swimmer Charlene Wittstock in Monaco where she was representing South Africa and would go on to win gold.

But no one was expecting a romance to blossom.

Their lives were very different. Sports-mad Charlene was 20 years his junior. Her father Michael was a photocopier salesman, and her mother Lynette a competitive diver.

But the pair allowed their relationship to develop slowly outside the public eye, and they did not make a public appearance until February 2006.

The occasion was the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics. French journalist Philippe Delorme said at the time: 'She was on his arm for the entire ceremony and they made no attempt to hide their affection for each other, sharing kisses and other tender gestures.'

Their first public appearance as a couple: Prince Albert with Charlene in Turin for the 2006 Winter Olympic Games in Turin

Then, in June 2010, their engagement was announced. Albert proposed with a pear-cut diamond ring.

'People could hardly believe it,' Delorme added. 'For four years, since they had first been seen together, the Monegasques had been holding their breath.'

Charlene was required to convert to Catholicism  she was raised a Protestant  and had to learn both French and the Monegasque dialect.

Delorme told the Daily Mail in 2011 that Albert finally meeting someone was a tale of Hollywood proportions: 'If the Princess Grace story was a movie, then Princess Charlene is the remake.

'The reality is that Albert is 52, a bit overweight, and much less fabulous and glamorous than his father was.

'It feels a bit like a love story of an old man and a young woman rather than a story of two young lovers.'

Albert proposed with a handcrafted pear-cut diamond flanked by smaller diamonds designed by Paris-based Italian jeweller Repossi, pictured on Charlene's finger in 2012

In her first interview after the royal wedding was announced, Charlene spoke of the challenges she faced making the transition from the life of an athlete to that of a future royal bride.

And she admitted to experiencing jealousy among some members of Monaco's social elite.

The people I mixed with in Monaco didn't relate to my South African mentality or humour, she told Tatler.

Of course I've been subject to jealousy, but that comes with the territory. Although I have met some wonderful people since I've been living in Monaco, I regard them all as acquaintances. I only have two people I consider friends here.

Meanwhile, comparisons between Princess Grace and Charlene were widespread, with the well-heeled citizens of Monaco hoping the next Princess will bring back some of the vitality and glamour of her predecessor.

The runaway bride?

It was set to be the wedding of the year that threatened to put Kate and Prince Williams nuptials a few months earlier in the shade.

But days before the big day, rumours began to circulate that Charlene had tried to flee the country on three occasions with a one-way ticket to Johannesburg.

A Parisian news magazine reported that Charlene had been stopped at Nice airport after allegedly learning a distressing revelation about her future husbands private life.

A senior Monaco detective claimed at the time: Charlene had her passport confiscated so that the Princes entourage could persuade her to stay.

An awkward smooch: Prince Albert II of Monaco kisses his bride Charlene after their civil wedding marriage ceremony in 2011

The rumour mill in France went into overdrive. Charlene had, it was suggested, heard talk of another illegitimate child, conceived when she was dating Prince Albert in 2005, and who would bring his tally of children born out of wedlock to three.

But the Princess would go on to dismiss the hilarious rumours.

She said: Why would he go through all this effort to have our dearest friends come join us, for us to be reluctant?Prince Albert added: My family have long been the subject of rumours born out of jealousy.
King Harald V of Norway appeared in good health as he joined his family at Bygd Kongsgard in Oslo to celebrate the beginning of Easter week.

In the image, Europe's oldest monarch, 87, smiled warmly alongside Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, and Prince Sverre Magnus.

It is the first official portrait since Harald underwent a pacemaker implant procedure at Oslo's University Hospital earlier this month after falling ill on a private holiday in Malaysia.

Despite only being a short period since the operation, the monarch appeared relaxed and cheerful as he sat beside his wife, Sonja, 86, at the front of the image.

The post read: 'The royal family wishes everyone a really good Easter. The royal couple and the Crown Prince family have been gathered at Bygd Kongsgard at the beginning of Easter week.'

King Harald V (front left) appeared cheerful as he smiled alongside Queen Sonja (front right), Crown Prince Haakon (back far right), Crown Princess Mette-Marit (back right), Princess Ingrid Alexandra (centre), and Prince Sverre Magnus (back far left) in a family portrait to mark the start of Easter week

Behind Harald and Sonja stood Crown Prince Haakon, 50, who is heir to the throne of Norway.

Donning a casual grey gilet, Haakon sported a wide smile as he stood next to his wife, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, also 50.

Mette-Marit looked elegant in a casual yet chic ensemble, complete with a cream satin blouse and black trousers.

Meanwhile, Princess Ingrid Alexandra stood in the centre of the image in between her grandparents.

The future Queen of Norway, 19, who recently started her military training at the start of this year, demonstrated her style prowess and donned an oversized grey blazer with a relaxed pair of black jeans.

Adding to the overarching relaxed mood of the portrait, Prince Sverre Magnus looked in good spirits as he gazed towards the camera donning a green and blue striped shirt.

It comes after King Harald V of Norway was spotted leaving the hospital earlier this month after receiving a permanent pacemaker.

The 87-year-old was discharged from the Rikshospitalet hospital in Oslo after receiving the implant a fortnight ago.

Harald 'is doing well' and is on sick leave until 8 April, the royal household said in a brief statement. His 50-year-old son, Crown Prince Haakan, is assuming the king's duties.

The monarch appeared in good health despite undergoing a permanent pacemaker implant procedure after falling ill on a private holiday earlier this month

Last month, Harald fell ill during a private holiday with his wife Queen Sonja on the Malaysian resort island of Langkawi. He underwent surgery there and received a temporary pacemaker due to a low heart rate.

Harald returned to Norway aboard a medical airplane and was immediately transferred to an Oslo hospital. The king's doctor, Bjrn Bendz, said that he had contracted an undetermined infection in Malaysia.

After the procedure, the monarch appeared well as he sat in the back of the vehicle while leaving the hospital. It is unclear whether he travelled in the car alone, with the addition of the driver.

The implant will help ensure that Harald's heart beats regularly, and will replace the temporary pacemaker that he received last weekend.

King Harald V of Norway was photographed leaving the hospital in Oslo today after receiving a permanent pacemaker

The monarch has been in frail health in recent years with numerous hospital stays. He had an operation to replace a heart valve in October 2020 after being hospitalized with breathing difficulties.

Despite suffering from various health concerns, Harald has repeatedly said that he has no plans to abdicate, unlike his second cousin Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, who stepped down earlier this year.

The 87-year-old's duties as Norway's head of state are ceremonial and he holds no political power. He ascended to the throne following the death of his father, King Olav, in 1991.

Despite Harald's procedure, the royal family have maintained an active approach with public engagements, and earlier this week, Queen Sonja and Princess Ingrid-Alexander attended a cross-country ski event in Holmenkollen.

It comes after King Harald of Norway thanked well-wishers for support as he revealed he is undergoing 'expert' treatment due to his 'challenging' health condition.

Europe's oldest monarch (pictured in February 2024) is 'doing well', the palace revealed in a brief statement

The King glanced out of the window as he left the university hospital in Oslo via car earlier today

The monarch has received support from close family, including Crown Princess Mette-Marit, 50, and her daughter Princess Ingrid Alexandra, 20, who visited the monarch at Rikshospital.

'We feel a great need to thank you for all the care, help and support during the King's illness on our holiday in Malaysia,' the couple said in their statement.

The royal couple not only thanked the Norwegian public for extending 'support', but the Malaysian authorities and staff that assisted them during their stay.

The statement read: 'We feel a great need to thank you for all the care, help and support during the King's illness on our holiday in Malaysia.

'We have felt the heat coming from the Norwegian people at this time. The great commitment has moved us and strengthened us. Thank you to everyone for the concern you have shown us in the family.

The monarch (pictured June 16, 2022 with Queen Sonja) is expected to stay in hospital for a 'few days' after the procedure

'Well back home in Norway, we also want to say a big thank you to the Malaysian authorities and staff at Sultanah Maliha Hospital in Langkawi.

'Together with Norwegian health staff, they did everything they could for the King to recover well through his illness and be ready for his return home.

'We are very grateful to the Norwegian government, the Armed Forces and others who assisted in making the journey home so safe and smooth for us. At the Rikshospitalet, Kongen is now undergoing expert treatment.'

They concluded: 'We thank each and every one who has given us care, practical and health assistance in a challenging situation.'

King Harald, Norway's ceremonial head of state since 1991, is Europe's oldest living monarch. He has repeatedly been hospitalised with infections in recent years and has undergone heart surgery.

Harald (pictured on May 4, 2019) was returning home from Malaysia last week after falling ill on holiday and spending several days in hospital, the royal palace said

He caught a respiratory infection in January, days after dismissing speculation that he might abdicate, following the lead of distant cousin Queen Margrethe II in Denmark.

Two days before Harald's 87th birthday last week, the palace announced that the King would be undertaking a private trip abroad, without specifying the destination or dates, according to the Norwegian news agency NTB.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre said that he was 'sad' to hear of the king's hospitalization and wished him a 'speedy recovery,' NTB said.

Despite Harald's precarious physical condition, the royal is certain that he wants to continue as Norway's reigning monarch.

Last month, the royal confirmed that he has no plans to abdicate after speculation he could follow in the footsteps of his former Danish counterpart, Queen Margrethe.

Traffic officers escort Norway's King Harald V and delegates leaving Sultanah Maliha Hospital in Langkawi Island, state of Kedah, Malaysia

A Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) plane carrying Norway's King Harald V and delegates is seen on the runway before taking off from Langkawi International Airport for their departure back to Norway

The monarch, who is the second cousin of King Charles III, insisted that the promise he made to the Norwegian Parliament when he acceded the throne in 1991 'lasts for life'.

King Harald told Faktisk.no: 'I stand by what I have said all along. I have taken an oath to the Storting, and it lasts for life.'

It comes after Queen Margrethe of Denmark, 83, abdicated after 52 years on the throne, making way for her son Frederik to take over as King on 14 January.

Afterwards, a royal expert had suggested the Danish monarch had broken an 'invisible pact' between heads of state in the Scandinavian countries that none would step down from the throne.

Roger Lundberg told STV that, after Denmark's changeover, there is a chance King Harald of Norway and King Carl Gustaf of Sweden , 79, might follow suit and step down to allow their eldest children to take the throne.

However, this has been firmly dismissed by King Harald.

The Norwegian King was 53 when he acceded the throne in 1991, upon the death of his father King Olav. Ahead of this, he had been acting as Crown Prince Regent due to his father's illness, which escalated in the spring of 1990.

King Harald has faced some health concerns himself in recent years, and spent time in the hospital to treat an infection last May, but clearly has no intention of abdicating.

His Scandinavian neighbour Queen Margrethe of Denmark made the shock announcement that she would give up the throne in her New Year's Eve speech.

The Danish Royal Family have spent the last two years grappling with various scandals, including the Queen's surprise decision to strip her grandchildren of their princely titles.

There were also rumours of an 'affair' after the then Crown Prince Frederik was spotted out in Madrid with Mexican socialite Genoveva Casanova.

But Denmark is not the only monarchy in the Scandinavian nations to have had a bumpy few years - with Norway's royal family experiencing its very own 'Megxit'.

King Harald and Queen Sonja's only daughter Princess Martha Louise, who was fourth in line to the throne, stepped down as a working royal in 2019.

Pictured left to right: King Harald V, Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Crown Prince Haakon of Norway

It was announced in 2022 that the mother-of-three would no longer represent the Royal household in any form following her engagement to an American Shamanic healer who had been criticised for his controversial views.

King Harald said that Martha would not be allowed to use her royal title any future commercial partnerships with her partner Durek Verrett, 47.

Shortly after the mother-of-three announced her engagement to Verrett, a Norweigan publishing house dropped his book 'Spirit Hacking' over pseudoscientific claims, including 'children can get cancer from being unhappy'.

Among his other claims, Verrett says he once came back from the dead, recovering from a month-long coma, by letting his soul 'burn' and he has also spoken of having to undergo a kidney transplant from his sister as a child.

Following Martha Louise's decision to step down, King Harald stressed that his daughter has remained a princess at his request, saying: 'She is our daughter, and she will continue to be. So she is Princess Martha Louise.'

The princess was previously married to Ari Behn, whom she wed in 2002 and had three children together Maud Angelica, 19, Leah Isadora, 17, and Emma Tallulah, 14. They split in 2016, and Ari took his own life on Christmas Day in 2019.

Crown Prince Haakon, Martha-Louise's older brother, is Norway's heir apparent - and the future King has already had a taste of what it will be like to ascend the throne after stepping in for his father on several occasions over the past few years.
Well, what a kerfuffle there's been (again) about membership of the Garrick Club and its steadfast refusal to allow women to join.

The head of the civil service, Simon Case, and the MI6 chief, Richard Moore, have resigned their memberships after criticism of their decision to join a club that has repeatedly blocked the admission of women since it's inception in 1831.

If anyone doubts the relevance of the dusty old men's club, earlier this week The Guardian published details of their closely guarded membership list, revealing that fellow members include judges, scores of senior lawyers, leaders of publicly funded arts institutions  and King Charles.

So in other words the country's top movers and shakers of the male variety. How, then, can anyone deny that being barred is an impediment to women? Even Margaret Thatcher could not become a member when she was Prime Minister  the top position in the land  and the significance didn't evade her back then.

In 1993, only a few years after she'd been ignominiously deposed from No.10, we sat in easy conversation after finishing an interview for Woman's Hour. We chatted about her early years in front of what would become her first Cabinet. She described them as 'the great and the good' but, she said, they treated her, their leader, like 'the cleaning lady'.

Even Margaret Thatcher could not become a member when she was Prime Minister  the top position in the land  and the significance didn't evade her back then

If even Thatcher isn't the 'right sort of person' for the Garrick, which is surely what they're saying in barring her and others of her standing, this surely sends the message that they don't belong at the very top of those professions.

An all-male club of such power and influence was  and remains  a distillation of sexism at its most abhorrent. It speaks volumes of the ultimate insult to women. It's saying there can't be any of those girlies clever enough or powerful enough to join and benefit from the connections and influence they might gain from our club.

In my view, the Garrick is the bedrock of professional sexism in this country.

I have, I must admit, visited the hallowed space  invited for dinner by an old friend shortly before interviewing Thatcher.

I have no desire to be allowed there again. The food was not dissimilar to what my friend confirmed you might expect at one of our more costly boys' public schools  he clearly spoke from experience. Meat with gravy, overcooked veg and a sponge pudding with custard. Bit like my own old school dinners, to be honest and not a bit posh.

The wine was good. The club is famous for its wonderful wine cellar, but the company which did, as is rumoured, consist of a lot of ageing blokes slumped in comfy leather chairs, dozing and seemingly the worse for wear, held no attraction for me. I couldn't wait to get out.

But in hindsight, that was me being a defensive smarty pants to be honest. What I really felt was that the Garrick, with a membership list of the great and good across the land  in the law, politics, journalism, business, even royalty for goodness sake  should welcome me and other women, not as decorative guests, but as equal members.

Another woman who came early to the forefront of political life was Brenda Dean. She became General Secretary of SOGAT (the Society of Graphical and Allied Trades), the printworkers union, in 1985. She was the first woman elected to head a major industrial trade union. Her wielding of power in trying to end the infamous Wapping Dispute, where printers risked losing their jobs to the advance of technology, found her being denounced by some of the militant Fleet Street chapels as 'nothing but a film star.'

She was famous for her blonde good looks which infuriated her as she worked hard to save jobs. Like Thatcher she told me she had never been clubbable. She had never heard the gossip and the plots as the men would lock themselves in the toilet to talk behind her back.

I have no objection in principle to men and women having separate spaces reserved only for their own sex. There is no greater pleasure than going out with a group of women friends knowing the conversation can centre safely on anything from the irritations of being a mother, the horrors of an unsatisfying sexual encounter or the politics of pornography. It's even better when you know you can go to the loo without being harassed or abused when the space is reserved only for women.

I'm sure men have topics of conversation they prefer to share exclusively with their male friends.

But that's not what the Garrick is about. The Garrick is a forum for the establishment. They say no deals are ever made there. I don't believe it. When the great and good whose lives depend on making contacts, on learning who's at the top of their game, come together in one spot, as members of so exclusive a club, don't tell me there aren't endless nods and winks. 'Ah, yes, you know so and so. I would really love to meet him.' 'Of course, I'll introduce you. I'm sure he'll be very useful to you.'

The deals may not be struck within the confines of the club's hallowed halls, but it must be where they are put in place.

It's from this ancient game of 'you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours' that women are excluded. The Garrick is way behind the times in leaving women out of its sphere of influence.

Among many others, Queen Camilla should be there as she's used her soft power to put women's rights high on the agenda. Baroness Hale, the first female president of the Supreme Court, should be there reminding fellow High court judges that their number should be more diverse. JK Rowling, too; a leading writer and one of the bravest commentators of our times.

As a journalist I've long known how hard it can be to persuade someone to join me in a studio and tell all. Contacts in my business are everything and membership of a Garrick Club, where men and women can share their knowledge, would be invaluable. Time to let us in.

Must Olivia be Oliver to get a raise?

Olivia Colman attends the European Premiere of Wicked Little Letters at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London last month

If I see an advert for a film that says Olivia Colman is in it, I'm likely to make an effort to see it. She's never put a foot wrong for me so far. If Tom Cruise is the star, on the other hand, I probably won't bother. I'd only be wondering if he'd put a foot wrong and broken his ankle in one of his stunts.

You'd assume, in the commercial world of Hollywood, men and women who can draw in an audience would be paid well on an equal basis.

Olivia, however, says no: 'I'm very aware that if I was Oliver Colman, I'd be earning a f*** of a lot more than I am.'

I'd like to say I'm surprised, but I'm not. Will the day ever come when women are valued as highly as men?

Why WASPIs should NOT get a payout

Campaigners outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London

What Im about to say, I say with great trepidation as I could almost have been a Waspi woman. Born in May 1950, I lost out on a couple of months of my pension, but I knew the age was going to change and was prepared for it.

How can so many women say they didnt know it was planned that womens pension age would go up to 65 to match that of men? Hadnt these women read the papers or listened to the news?

As William Hague pointed out this week, it was his policy and he announced in plenty of time for the women to prepare. Please dont plead ignorance and ask for thousands of pounds compensation we just cant afford.

You'd be lucky to bed 25, Tony!

Radio DJ Tony Blackburn in the 1960s. This week he admitted his claim in his autobiography of sleeping with 250 women was 'made up'

Oh Tony, big lesson learned. If you publish an autobiography, using a ghost writer, always read it before publication. I suspected you hadnt slept with 250 women when I first heard the story when the book came out in the 80s. Now youve confessed to a lie. Cant say Im surprised; 25 might have been a bit over the top!
But she was charged different prices

An Aldi Australia customer was furious after she was charged two different prices for bananas.

Nikita, from Queensland, picked out several ripe yellow bananas and a few slightly green ones then went to pay.

But after going to the staffed checkout the employee separated the two types and charged her 'more for the under-ripe ones'.

Nikita questioned the transaction and claimed the cashier explained the green bananas are more expensive than the yellow.

'I was like, "Huh? But I got them from the same table." She's like, "Fine I'll refund you but next time they'll be priced differently",' Nikita wrote on Facebook and shared images of the receipts.

Daily Mail Australia understands Aldi sell two different types of bananas in its Queensland stores - Cavendish bananas and Havana bananas which are sold at different price points.

These two products are merchandised separately in store with a sticker on the Havana bananas so they can be identified.

Nikita, from Queensland , picked out several ripe yellow bananas and slightly green ones then went to pay. But after going to the staffed checkout the employee separated the two types and charged her differently

Based on the receipts it's clear Nikita picked up one bunch of Havana bananas, priced at $4.99 per kilo, and Cavendish bananas, priced at $3.99 per kilo. The two different types of bananas are meant to be separated in store with stickers so they can be easily identified

Based on the receipts it's clear Nikita picked up one bunch of Havana bananas, priced at $4.99 per kilo, and Cavendish bananas, priced at $3.99 per kilo.

The two different types of bananas are meant to be separated in store with stickers so they can be easily identified. But Nikita claimed the bananas were together and did not have a sticker.

Sharing the details to the Aldi Fans Australia Facebook group, she wrote: 'Got lowkey suggested I was a dodgy customer today.

'I did my usual behaviour ... I went to the bananas and picked out some incredibly green looking ones and also some more yellow ones (almost everything was green at the main spot) and on I went with my shopping.

'Go to pay and the cashier removes the yellow bananas and charges me differently for yellow vs green.

'I stewed internally for a moment then asked why she charged them separately. She said oh the green bananas are smaller so they're (can't remember name) named banana and the slightly more yellow are Cavendish.'

Then the cashier gave her a refund and warned next time she will be charged differently.

'I was like WTF? Refund was $3 something, but I literally just chose them based on how they'll ripen and that they're mainly for a five-year-old so I don't need giant bananas.'

Nikita claimed the bananas were together in the same table. 'They need to put stickers on their bananas or something if they're going to charge based on visual alleged size because I was utterly baffled,' she said

'They need to put stickers on their bananas or something if they're going to charge based on visual alleged size because I was utterly baffled,' the lengthy post continued.

'I didn't even know they sold smaller bananas but I sure do love having it alleged to me that I'm doing something dodgy.

'Please note, they weren't Lady Finger nor did she use the word Lady Finger. Also I kinda panic when unexpected situations arise so it seems the type was "hav" banana. At the time they just sounded similar but unknown to me.'

Hundreds flooded the comments and shared their thoughts on the situation.

'Large bananas, small bananas doesn't matter. You pay by weight,' one commented.

'I've never seen Lady Finger bananas in Aldi,' another said.

'What in the hell, I used to work at Aldi and this was not a thing,' a third added.

An Aldi employee joined the conversation: 'She was probably just confused. We have recently sold three different types of bananas: Cavendish, Lady Finger and Havana. And that's just in Queensland,' she said.

'I know other states have others and staff transfer between regions often. I'd just let her manager know.'

Another said: 'Ex Aldi employee they only stock one type of loose bananas and one in bags I have no idea what that employee was going on about.'
DO YOU HAVE ANY MORE INFORMATION? Email caitlin.tilley@mailonline.com

He allegedly told one woman dating her was like 'bobbing for apples in feces'

One of America's most popular podcasters and health influencers has been accused of womanizing and sexually irresponsible behavior - including dating five women at the same time. One suggests he gave her an STI.

Andrew Huberman is a neuroscientist based at Stanford University who shares health advice with his six million Instagram followers, and 5.2 million subscribers to his YouTube channel, Huberman Lab.

He is well-known for his macho attitude and self-improvement videos tailored to men, and is regarded by some as being one of the top 'bro science' influencers - a category of science-themed social media content aimed at men.

Now a damning report has provided illuminating insight into Mr Huberman's personal life.

Mr Huberman with a fan, who is not linked to the story

Mr Huberman with a fan, who is not linked to the story

Testimonies from five women paint the podcaster as a promiscuous 'serial dater', who subjected romantic partners to aggressive outbursts, betrayal and infidelity.

Eventually, the victims are said to have learned about each other and formed an unlikely friendship, confronting Huberman about his actions.

Accounts include that of his former partner of five years, who says Huberman had affairs with multiple women - sometimes even arranging dates on the same day.

She claims he made derogatory comments about her, including likening dating her to 'bobbing for apples in feces,' which he denied.

Mr Huberman, 48, an associate professor of neurology and ophthalmology at the Stanford University School of Medicine, has risen to prominence because of his obsession with how to optimize one's health.

According to the New York magazine investigation, former girlfriend 'Sarah' (not her real name) caught Huberman having affairs with five other women - and allegedly contracted the cancer-causing STI, human papillomavirus.

Mr Huberman hosts the Huberman Lab podcast, which has millions of listeners

Neurobiology professor Andrew Huberman speaking at a conference in Boston in 2023

'I experienced his rage,' Sarah said, 'as two to three days of yelling in a row. When he was in this state, he would go on until 11 or 12 at night and sometimes start again at two or three in the morning.'

Mr Huberman became romantically involved with Sarah after the pair began messaging on Instagram in February 2018 - before the influencer's rise to fame.

As the relationship progressed, Sarah claims that Mr Huberman became 'obsessed' with her past, particularly the two children she had from a previous relationship.

In 2021, Sarah tested positive for a high-risk form of human papillomavirus infection, also known as HPV, which is most commonly contracted via sexual activity and linked to 99 percent of cervical cancers.

She says she had never tested positive for the STI before, despite getting tested regularly for ten years.

In 2022, Sarah saw romantic texts on Mr Huberman's phone from a woman named Eve (not her real name), an actress.

Mr Huberman with his bullmastiff, Costello, who weighed 90 lbs

Like Sarah, Eve was also under the impression that Mr Huberman was not seeing anyone else, and so the pair had unprotected sex.

However, she learned this was not the case after noticing Sarah liking and commenting on her Instagram posts.

The pair spoke over the phone and realized they had been duped by Mr Huberman.

There was also Mary, from Texas, who Mr Huberman had been seeing for years and Alex, from New York, who had also been having sex with him without realizing he had a girlfriend.

The women started a group chat and corroborated the extent of Mr Huberman's antics using time-stamped text messages.

One day in Texas, Sarah had left Mr Huberman's hotel, after which he slept with Mary and texted Eve. The day before Mr Huberman had moved in with Sarah, he had slept with Mary.

And on one day in March 21, 2021, while Sarah was in Berkeley, Mr Huberman had flown Mary from Texas to LA to stay with him.

While she was there, he left her looking after his dog, Costello, while he drove to a coffee shop to meet Eve, where they talked about their relationship.

He later texted Mary, who was waiting for him, that his phone died.

He texted Eve: 'Thank you  For being so next, next, level gorgeous and sexy.'

'Sleep well beautiful,' he sent to Sarah.

During a November 2021 episode of Mr Huberman's podcast entitled 'How Humans Select & Keep Romantic Partners in Short & Long Term,' he was discussing similarities in mate preferences with evolutionary psychologist David Buss.

'Could you tell us about how men and women leverage deception versus truth-telling and communicating some of the things around mate choice selection?' Mr Huberman asked.

'Effective tactics for men,' said Mr Buss, 'are often displaying cues to long-term interest men tend to exaggerate the depths of their feelings for a woman.'

'Let's talk about infidelity in committed relationships,' said Mr Huberman, chuckling. 'Im guessing it does happen.'

'Men who have affairs tend to have affairs with a larger number of affair partners,' said Mr Buss.

'And so... then by definition cant be long-lasting. You can't have the long-term affairs with six different partners.'

'Yeah,' said Mr Huberman, 'unless hes, um, juggling multiple, uh, phone accounts or something of that sort.'

'Right, right, right, and some men try to do that, but I think it could be very taxing,' said Mr Buss.

Mr Huberman allegedly explained to one of the women that he was not a sex addict, but a love addict.

According to Mr Huberman himself, 'addiction is a progressive narrowing of the things that bring you pleasure.'

Via a spokesperson, Mr Huberman told the NY Mag that he did not become exclusive with Sarah until late 2021 and denied Sarah's account of their fighting, adding: 'Dr Huberman is very much in control of his emotions.'

A spokesperson for Mr Huberman declined to comment when contacted by DailyMail.com.
A judge in Canada has cleared the way for a 27-year-old autistic woman to be euthanized despite objections from her dad, who says she's 'healthy'  just 'vulnerable' due to her mental health problems.

In his ruling, Justice Colin Feasby acknowledged that the doctor-assisted death would cause the father 'profound grief,' but said the young woman's right to end her own life trumped his feelings.

A publication ban protects the identities of the dad, the daughter, and her doctors. The father is referred to as WV, and she as MV.

'MV's dignity and right to self-determination outweighs the important matters raised by WV and the harm that he will suffer in losing MV,' Feasby wrote in his 34-page ruling, which was issued this week.

The father-and-daughter euthanasia case is being heard at Calgary Courts Center in Alberta

'Though I find that WV has raised serious issues, I conclude that MV's autonomy and dignity interests outweigh competing considerations.'

The Calgary judge's decision will be paused for 30 days, so the dad's lawyers have a chance to appeal.

Poll Should doctor-assisted suicide be available where you live? Yes No Not sure Should doctor-assisted suicide be available where you live? Yes 6767 votes

No 5224 votes

Not sure 1052 votes Now share your opinion





The case spotlights Canada's euthanasia system, known as medical assistance in dying (MAiD), which has grown rapidly since it was introduced in 2016, with more than 13,000 people being euthanized each year.

MV lives with her father and was approved for euthanasia in December.

She did not file any court documents explaining how she came to qualify for MAiD, according to Canadian news outlets.

Her lawyer, Austin Paladeau, said the case boils down to the daughter's right to autonomy and that the dad's affection for his daughter 'does not give him the right to keep her alive against her wishes.'

But WV says his daughter 'is vulnerable and is not competent to make the decision to take her own life,' the judge wrote.

'He says that she is generally healthy and believes that her physical symptoms, to the extent that she has any, result from undiagnosed psychological conditions.'

Her only known diagnoses described at a previous hearing earlier were autism and hyperactivity disorder.

The dad's lawyers had asked for a judicial review to examine how the daughter got MAID approval.

Justice Colin Feasbyackowledged that the daughter's death would be 'devastating' for her parents

Alberta Health Services says euthanasia is a 'sensitive and emotional' issue for people in the province

Under Canada's euthanasia system, two doctors or nurse practitioners have to greenlight a patient for MAiD.

When MV applied to Alberta Health Services for an assisted death, she was apprved by one doctor and rejected by another.

A third 'tie-breaker' doctor then approved the procedure.

WV questioned the third doctor's sign-off, saying he 'was not independent or objective.'

In his ruling, Feasby said the young woman had 'struggled to find a doctor who could diagnose [her] condition and offer appropriate treatment.'

'I do not know why you seek MAID,' the judge wrote.

'Your reasons remain your own because I have respected your autonomy and your privacy.

'My decision recognizes your right to choose medically assisted death; but it does not require you to choose death.'

Without MAiD, the woman would have to choose between living a life she saw as intolerable and suicide, he said.

Lawyer Austin Paladeau said the dad cannot keep his daughter 'alive against her wishes'

Any adult in Canada with a serious illness, disease, or disability can seek help in dying

'This is a terrible choice that should not be forced on MV, as attempting to end her life without medical assistance would put her at increased risk of pain, suffering and lasting injury,' he wrote.

Even so, the daughter's death would leave the parents 'devastated,' added the judge.

'For many parents, the loss of a child is a life-changing event that they never truly recover from,' he wrote.

'The loss is immeasurable.'

The dad's lawyer Sarah Miller said it was not clear if they would appeal the ruling and push for a judicial review of the case.

The father-daughter row is the latest controversy to spotlight one of the world's most permissive assisted-dying programs.

Alex Schadenberg, who leads the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition campaign group, said it showcased the problems with MAiD.

'Canada's euthanasia law was not designed to protect vulnerable people,' Schadenberg said.

'The law is designed to protect the doctors who are willing to kill.'

Many Canadians support euthanasia and the campaign group, Dying With Dignity, says procedures are 'driven by compassion, an end to suffering and discrimination and desire for personal autonomy.'

Canada has among the highest rates of assisted dying in the world

More than 99.9 percent of Canada's MAiD procedures are carried out by a doctor

Rights groups say the country's regulations lack necessary safeguards, devalue the lives of disabled people, and prompt doctors and health workers to suggest the procedure to those who might not otherwise consider it.

The number of MAiD deaths jumped 31.2 percent to 13,241 between 2021 and 2022, official numbers show.

Some 44,958 people have received assisted deaths since the federal MAiD law was introduced in 2016.

Canada's road to allowing euthanasia began in 2015, when its top court declared that outlawing assisted suicide deprived people of their dignity and autonomy. It gave national leaders a year to draft legislation.

The resulting 2016 law legalized both euthanasia and assisted suicide for people aged 18 and over, provided they met certain conditions:

They had to have a serious, advanced condition, disease, or disability that was causing suffering and their death was looming.

The law was later amended to allow people who are not terminally ill to choose death, significantly broadening the number of eligible people.

Under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's liberal government, Canada has repeatedly made it easier to access euthanasia

The number of MAiD deaths in Canada has risen steadily by about a third each year

Critics say that change removed a key safeguard aimed at protecting people with potentially decades of life left.

Today, any adult with a serious illness, disease, or disability can seek help in dying.

Officials in February delayed plans to expand MAiD access to those with mental illnesses, kicking a decision back to 2027.

There are also efforts to make euthanasia available to 'mature minors.'

Euthanasia is legal in seven countries  Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand and Spain  plus several states in Australia.

Other jurisdictions, including a growing number of US states, allow doctor-assisted suicide  in which patients take the drug themselves, typically crushing up and drinking a lethal dose of pills prescribed by a physician.

In Canada, both options are referred to as MAiD, though more than 99.9 percent of such procedures are carried out by a doctor. The number of MAiD deaths in Canada has risen steadily by about a third each year.
But researchers emphasized the overall prevalence of heart damage was low

Doctors have issued a warning about the long-term effects of Adderall after a study suggested the meds may cause heart damage.

Researchers from the University of Colorado looked at Americans between the age of 20 and 40 who were prescribed Adderall or Ritalin for their ADHD.

They found patients were nearly 60 percent more likely to have a weakened heart eight years after taking them compared with people who also had ADHD but who are not taking those medications.

The stimulant drugs work by altering levels of chemicals in the brain to enhance concentration and focus, but there are concerns they can also elevate blood pressure by causing the heart to beat faster and with greater force.

Over time this can weaken the heart and lead to the heart muscle becoming thicker, stiffer and larger. This can cause an irregular heartbeat, heart failure, or a life-threatening condition called cardiac arrest.

The rate of women in their twenties filling prescriptions for ADHD medications such as Adderall spiked nearly 20 percent from 2020 to 2021. That rate among adult men aged 30 to 39 jumped almost 15 percent in that time

The above chart shows ADHD rates in the US compared to other countries

It comes amid fears that ADHD is being over diagnosed and the powerful stimulants used to treat it overprescribed.

One in seven boys aged 5 to 17 now have attention-deficit hyperactive disorder in the US, a recent report suggested.

The drugs have other nasty side effects, including insomnia, increased irritability and anxiety. In serious cases, they can cause seizures, hallucinations and psychosis.

Researchers at the University of Colorado emphasized that the overall risk of cardiomyopathy - a weakening of the heart muscle which reduces its ability to pump blood around the body - stayed 'relatively low', even when stimulants were used long-term.

The academics said their findings do not necessarily point to a need for clinicians to change their approach to screening patients for the development disorder or prescribing the medications.

For example to put into context, after being prescribed stimulants for 10 years, just 0.72 percent (less than three-quarters of one percent) of patients developed cardiomyopathy, compared with 0.53 percent (a little over half of one percent) among those who were not prescribed stimulants.

In some cases of cardiomyopathy, the heart rhythm becomes disturbed, which leads to arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).

Long-term risks arrhythmias include life-threatening stroke, heart failure, or cardiac arrest.

Researchers from the University of Colorado found that people prescribed stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin were 57 percent more likely to have a weakened heart eight years after taking them, compared with those not taking these medications

Using data from around 80 hospitals in the US, the researchers analyzed information from people diagnosed with ADHD aged between 20 and 40.

People with heart damage caused by other known factors, such as cancer treatments, were excluded.

The researchers paired each person who had been prescribed stimulants with someone who had not been but was similar in other aspects such as age, sex and health conditions, and also had ADHD.

In total, 12,759 pairs were created and were followed for at least 10 years.

People who were on a medication of ADHD were 17 percent more likely to have cardiomyopathy after one year of taking the drugs, the study found.

And 57 percent among those on drugs of eight years were more likely to have a weakened heart.

Despite the gap, the prevalence of cardiomyopathy was still quite low in both groups.

Pauline Gerard, a second-year medical student at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Aurora, Colorado, and the studys lead author, put the numbers in context: 'You can have almost 2,000 patients on these medications for a year and you might only cause one of them to have a cardiomyopathy that they otherwise would not have had, but if you leave them on it for 10 years, 1 in 500 will have that happen.'

Ms Gerard added: 'The longer you leave patients on these medications, the more likely they are to develop cardiomyopathy, but the risk of that is very low.

'I dont think this is a reason to stop prescribing these medications. Theres very little increased risk of these medications over the long term; its a real risk, but its small.'

The rising rates of ADHD comes amid psychologists' warnings that prevalence in the in the US is far too high  and is causing many children to needlessly take drugs used to treat the condition.

The market value for ADHD medications such as Adderall and Ritalin more than tripled over the 12 years to 2022 to $12.5billion. Estimates suggest it could hit nearly $15billion by 2030.

The late Dr Keith Connors was a former Harvard University psychologist who published the first standards for diagnosing ADHD in the 1990s.

'The numbers make it look like an epidemic', he said in 2013, five years before his death. 'Well, it's not. It's preposterous.

'This is a concoction to justify the giving out of medication at unprecedented and unjustifiable levels.'

ADHD is defined as a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual's ability to focus, control impulses and regulate energy levels.

It is typically diagnosed in childhood, around the ages of six or seven years, but in many cases persists into teen years and adulthood.
Marion Sell is so angry at how little compensation she could receive for failings in the way changes to her state pension age were communicated that shed like nothing more than to throw the money back in the Governments face.

The 67-year-old, from Covingham, Wiltshire, is one of hundreds of women who have contacted Money Mail to vent their fury at last weeks ruling on compensation for Waspi women  Women Against State Pension Inequality.

In a long-awaited ruling, the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) said that millions of women who were hit by state pension age increases had been failed by the Government and could be owed compensation  but only of between 1,000 and 2,950 in the majority of cases, and exceeding 10,000 only in the most extreme.

Marion Sell, pictured, only learned she would be waiting six more years for her pension when friends told her

Campaigners for the Waspi group have branded the proposed compensation as insulting  and want a minimum of 10,000. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has indicated it will refuse to comply with making any payments, according to the Ombudsman.

Marion is among those who did not receive so much as a letter from the DWP informing her of the rise to her state pension age.

Learning I would be waiting for six more years for my pension was a real kick in the teeth  and I heard about it only from friends, she says.

Women born in the 1950s have been stitched up every which way after a lifetime of wage inequality, and it makes me furious.

A couple of thousand or so is just an insult as compensation  and if I could afford it, I would tell them where to stick it.

Marion, who lives with her second husband, Robert, 67, didnt work while her children were growing up, and also suffered a serious financial setback after her divorce from her first husband in 1988  meaning she struggled to survive, never mind save money for retirement.

She says: Before I had the children I had low-paid office jobs  partly because employers thought I might leave to have children. It may sound sexist, but thats how life was for many women in the 1970s.

After my divorce, it was a real struggle to pay the mortgage on the family home, and I was threatened with eviction, so I did lots of part-time secretarial work just to pay the bills and keep a roof over our heads.

There wasnt the money to put into a private pension.

The hardships many women in my generation went through has not been considered.

Payout is so very disappointing

Carole Whyatt, pictured, describes her compensation as 'bitterly disappointing'

Carole Whyatt, 66, says that even if she does receive the recommended compensation, it would only go towards her bills and is nothing compared with what she has lost because of the DWPs poor communication.

Even if I were to receive 2,950 as the suggested compensation, it would work out at less than 500 for every year of planned retirement, she says.

Its enough to go towards the electricity bill, but very little else. I am furious about the way we have been treated.

The mother-of-two said she was unable to make up the missing pension because of the lack of notice she was given.

Carole says: I was livid because I was relying on my state pension coming the following year. She believes she missed out on 54,000 in the six years her state pension was delayed. She says of the compensation: It is bitterly disappointing.

Carole says she has waved goodbye to a modest but well-earned retirement with her chef husband Paul, 74  the couple had planned to spend a couple of weeks a year in the French region of Dordogne, enjoying its cuisine and wine.

All those years of dreaming  I had even studied French in preparation for those future holidays, she says.

Carole, from Oldham in Greater Manchester, says she found out about the change to her retirement age only when a relative casually informed her about it over lunch a few months before shed expected to retire.

In one fell swoop we were cruelly robbed of our retirement dreams, she says.

Instead, it was going to be a case of watching the pennies to pay the bills. Any ideas of holidays flew out the window and, sadly, we still have not been able to go back to France.

Carole had suffered a terrible couple of years of ill health before expecting to retire at 60.

After being treated for breast cancer at the age of 58, the following year she spent three months in hospital after a supposedly routine gallstone operation ended up with complications.

This all meant she had to give up her job as a government funding consultant.

I should be getting 10,000

Anne Campbell, pictured, said she wants the DWP to 'hold up their hands and say sorry'

Anne Campbell, 67, was just one year away from retiring when she discovered she would have to wait another six years to receive her state pension.

She only found out in 2015 when she attended a public meeting with her MP at her local church.

Anne estimates that she has missed out on 48,000 worth of state pension  and that a mere 1,000 compensation will do little to make up for that. She says: I feel deflated. Its not enough to compensate me for the lack of communication. A higher amount, such as 10,000, would be more reasonable.

I want the DWP to hold up their hands and say sorry. If they acknowledged it at the beginning, it would have made it a bit more bearable. The mother-of-two, from Falkirk in Scotlands Central Lowlands, had planned to retire at the age 60 to care for her mother who had dementia and her daughter who was suffering from cervical cancer.

Anne says: It was a real shock  just horrendous. I needed to retire to look after my mum, my daughter and grandson, but had to keep working full time. And then my own health started to decline as a result. Anne reluctantly continued to work as a community and development worker until she was made redundant at the age of 62.

But she lived in fear of her bank balance dipping into the red, even with her workplace pension topping up her redundancy package.

It significantly reduced my quality of life. I always worried about whether I was going to have any money left at the end of the month, she says.

Injustice makes me so angry

Retired project manager Barbara Silver, 69, says: Its the sense of injustice  of being wronged  that makes me particularly angry. I started work at 16 and worked for 47 years, with only a short break when my son was born in the early 1980s.

I went through a difficult divorce and raised him on my own, but I never missed any National Insurance payments. So, all that I want is what is due.

Barbara, who lives in Mill Hill, North London, adds: Working as a project manager in the construction industry, I had to survive in a male-dominated world  where wages are not always equal between men and women, even now  so pensions were not so generous.

My heart really goes out to those who have fought so hard and did not have the benefit of a private pension on top of a state pension required to survive.

I took early retirement at 63 to look after my father, who has since passed away. Had I relied solely on the state pension we were promised, I could not have provided the care he needed. It would have been heartbreaking.

Additional reporting by Lucy Evans

Why experts fear Waspi women may only get fixed payouts of just 1,000

There were cries of victory last week from women hit by changes to the state pension age, as campaigners celebrated a long-awaited ombudsman ruling that appeared to urge ministers to award compensation to millions of women.

After years of campaigning by Waspi women (Women Against State Pension Inequality), the ombudsman ruled that women who were born in the 1950s should be paid proper compensation and get an apology. Until 2010, women were entitled to receive the state pension from the age of 60, but the Government announced in 1995 that this would increase to 65 between 2010 and 2020 to level the playing field with men.

Up to 3.8 million women should have received letters informing them about the changes, the ombudsman said. The failure of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to notify women early enough means many could not prepare financially for the years they would need to cope without the state pension.

At first glance, the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsmans report promised everything activists had called for, including compensation of up to 10.5 billion and even an apology from the DWP.

Waspi campaigners assemble outside Parliament on International Women's Day this month

But hidden in the small print, details identified by Money Mail suggest many could be left sorely disappointed. And that is if the Government agrees to pay out at all. So far, ministers have refused to commit to any compensation, and Labour, whose responsibility it may be after the general election, has stayed silent.

So, what happens now? We break down the mechanics of the ombudsman ruling and how compensation could be doled out.

After five years of waiting for the ruling, its no surprise that campaigners want an answer as soon as possible. However, no decision is likely to be made any time soon.

On Monday, Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride said the Government would need time to fully and properly consider the findings of the ombudsman and the detail of what is a substantial document.

Steve Webb, a former pensions minister and now partner at consultancy LCP, said it was unlikely any compensation would be paid this year in light of the upcoming general election.

He says: The Government will be working out the smallest amount they can spend without losing a vote  my best guess is that they would like to offer nothing but may find its too unpopular to get away with doing that.

The Government is under no obligation to follow the watchdogs recommendations and therefore does not need to commit to any payments. However, the ombudsman took the rare step of asking Parliament to intervene so there will be pressure on ministers to act, stating an urgent need for remedy.

However, the watchdog did not find that the mistake resulted in victims suffering any direct financial loss. This may weaken the argument for compensation, Mr Webb says, as payouts would be far easier to calculate if there had been a tangible loss.

The cost of financing a compensation package is not the key issue, according to Mr Webb, but rather it is the precedent that paying out would set.

He says: The DWP doesnt think it has done anything wrong so once you accept that it has not communicated well, it could set a precedent for other cases.

Campaigners in Glasgow this month next o a statue of political activist Mary Barbour

In its report, the ombudsman set out a range of six recommended compensation levels depending on how much womens lives were affected by the DWPs failure to notify them.

The watchdog recommended that most women be given level four compensation of between 1,000 and 2,950. This implies they have suffered a significant and/or lasting injustice that has, to some extent, affected someones ability to live a relatively normal life. However, this falls far short of the 10,000 campaigners were calling for. Those who suffered a short-lived, low impact injustice (such as an annoyance or frustration) should not receive compensation and an apology will suffice, according to the report.

Meanwhile, those who were the most severely affected  classed as category six injustice  could be awarded 10,000 or more. This applies in the case of a profound, devastating or irreversible injustice where the person has been affected permanently, recovery is likely to take several years, or their quality of life has been reduced for a considerable period.

But a tiered compensation scheme may prove too complicated, time-consuming and costly. This is not the first time the DWP has been embroiled in issues with the state pension  the department is already part of the way through a long corrective payment scheme.

In 2020, the Government admitted it had made systematic errors in state pension calculations.

In total, 237,000 elderly women were affected. Estimates suggest they are owed nearly 1.5 billion in underpaid state pension. However, the pensions department was identified as running way behind schedule and had to delay its repayment timeframe due to the slow pace of the exercise.

This means any repayments to Waspi women could take years.

The ombudsman concluded that although compensation should be personalised, given the urgency of rectifying the mistake, the department may have to use a more standardised approach. This could result in a flat payout.

Mr Webb says: In theory, the Government could very well come back from the Easter recess and say they will pay 1,000 to every woman affected if they want to make the payments quickly.

Similarly, those born in 1960 will not reach state pension age until 2026 and so have had a lot more warning.

Likewise, the Government could restrict compensation to the worst affected. Mr Webb says: The Government could, for example, exclude anyone whose pension age went up by less than one year, as they wouldnt have been as heavily impacted.

The ombudsmans recommendations give the Government a lot of leeway, with a wide estimated range of how much the redress could cost taxpayers  at between 3.5 billion and 10.5 billion.

A DWP spokesman said: We will consider the ombudsmans report and respond in due course, having cooperated fully throughout this investigation.

While last weeks ruling finally gives women recognition for the DWPs failings, the battle is still a long way from over.
Influencers have been warned about promoting financial products on social media as the City watchdog vowed to clamp down on illegal adverts.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has issued updated guidance to online content creators on how to advertise on platforms such as Instagram.

The guidance relates to financial products such as loans and pensions as well as investment schemes including cryptocurrencies.

It comes after Kim Kardashian was fined 1million in the US for failing to disclose she was paid 200,000 to promote cryptocurrency Ethereum Max to her millions of followers in 2021.

Financial promotions must be clear, fair and not misleading, the UK regulator said.

Crypto fail: Kim Kardashian (pictured) was fined 1m in the US for failing to disclose she was paid 200,000 to promote cryptocurrency Ethereum Max

Adverts for risky products such as cryptocurrencies must also be labelled with clear warnings to consumers.

The watchdog reminded influencers that they could be committing a criminal offence if they promote financial products that are subject to regulation without approval.

The FCA said firms are on the hook for all their promotions and must make sure anyone they work with sticks to the rules.

Lucy Castledine, of the watch- dog, said: Promotions arent just about the likes, theyre about the law. We will take action against those touting financial products illegally.
TAMIU President Pablo Arenaz, Meteorologist Richard "Heatwave" Berler, Cory Lopez and unidentified individual on March 26, 2024 at Texas A&M International University. David Gomez Jr./Laredo Morning Times Meteorologist Richard "Heatwave" Berler, on March 26, 2024 at Texas A&M International University. David Gomez Jr./Laredo Morning Times Meteorologist Richard "Heatwave" Berler speaks of the new weather station site on March 26, 2024 at Texas A&M International University. David Gomez Jr./Laredo Morning Times

Texas A&M International University and the National Weather Service honored local legend Richard "Heatwave" Berler and dedicated a new meteorological station on the campus on Tuesday.

As the chief meteorologist at KGNS, he has been informing Laredo and county residents their daily weather forecast since Feb. 14, 1980. He has also served as Laredos Cooperative Observer Program observer for the past 38 years, which includes defining Laredos climate, support forecast and warning programs for the NWS.

The newly-dedicated TAMIU COOP station, a podlike structure in a 15x20 enclosure at the campus, aims to focus on the collection of weather data. It also recognizes the universitys weather-focused safety measures -- including being part of SKYWARN, a national network of over 350,000 trained severe weather spotters. Berler looks forward to the station on TAMIU grounds.

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It was a bit of a surprise, and its nice to be recognized, Berler said. Mainly, Im just thrilled that the weather station has found a nice, good site and likely will be at the same site for decades where the folks can take observations on a daily basis.

Berler took data for his previous weather station samples for over 40 years at the KGNSs previous television studio on Del Mar Boulevard. He hopes more weather stations will continue to be built throughout the city, as the data is informative -- not just for the citys weather history but also to show future patterns that may affect change.

I think theyre very valuable for urban planning, for extremes that could occur and for understanding what the local climate is like in different land use situations, Berler said. Id like to see more stations set up so that you can simultaneously observe, but this is quite valuable.

Warning Coordination Meteorologist Cory Lopez said he is impressed with Berler's 38 years of observations.

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A pretty impressive record for collecting weather data for us and not having missed a day, which is impressive, Lopez said. Its not an easy task coming out every single day and then getting the weather observations for us. Now, being here at the TAMIU site, its awesome that were within a reasonable distance.

Of course a different site, but were still able to keep that data going, which is critical for us in the weather service for us to understand the climatology out here and how the weather might be changing over periods of time. And well have that continue right here at TAMIU.

TAMIU President Pablo Arenaz was also present to honor Berler, stating it was an honor for the campus to have a weather station.

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Centrica chief exec Chris OShea took home 8.2m in 2023

The boss of British Gas owner Centrica saw his pay almost double last year after high energy bills boosted the firms share price.

Centrica chief executive Chris OShea took home 8.2million in 2023.

That compared to 4.5million the year before  a figure he recently said was impossible to justify.

OShea, who has led the firm since 2020, earned a 810,000 salary, around 1.4million in annual bonuses and 5.9million in longer-term bonuses.

The latter figure soared in 2023 as it is linked to the FTSE 100 firms share price performance over the last three years.

The companys stock was boosted by high household energy bills during the cost-of-living crisis.

Its remuneration committee chairman Carol Arrowsmith said: We need to ensure Centrica is set up for success in the long-term and that means attracting and retaining high-performing executives.

Centrica said total shareholder returns have jumped 247 per cent since 2021, and highlighted the support it has provided to customers during the cost-of-living squeeze.

OShea did not accept a bonus in 2019, 2020 or 2021.

The pay rise, revealed in Centricas annual report, comes two months after OShea told the BBC you cant justify a salary of that size when asked about his 4.5million wage from 2022.

Luke Hildyard, of think-tank the High Pay Centre, said: As Mr OShea himself admitted a few weeks ago, its not really credible to argue the work that he does is at all proportionate to a pay award even half this size.
Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust bosses have moved to quell fears it is on a collision course with its new activist investor.

US hedge fund Elliott Management last week emerged as the firms largest shareholder with a 5 per cent stake worth about 607million  sparking speculation over its intentions.

At an online investor meeting yesterday, SMIT manager Tom Slater insisted the two firms interests were aligned.

Concerns: At an online investor meeting yesterday, Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust manager Tom Slater (pictured) insisted it and Elliots interests were aligned

And he said the relationship would not result in a seven-year debacle similar to that at Alliance Trust  which saw the chief executive ousted and the board being cleared out after a long campaign by Elliott.

Slater said: The only things in common are the name Elliott and an investment trust. We are aligned.

The meeting also addressed investor fears that the fund holds too many illiquid undervalued private firms which make up 25 per cent of the portfolio.

But Slater and deputy manager Lawrence Burns stuck by their investments, adding they had seen increased enthusiasm from private firms wanting to come to market in recent months.

Shares in SMIT rose 8.6p to 884p.
Raging parents have today accused a school of discrimination for enforcing a new uniform policy which means they will have to fork out 45 for a 'hideous' tartan skirt.

Priestlands School, in Pennington, Hampshire, has issued strict new guidelines telling parents the skirt can only be purchased from one particular outlet.

Children must have the new garb, which is twice the price of its predecessor, fitted in person 'to ensure it's knee length', sparking outrage among parents who have threatened a boycott and said it is an example of the 'pink tax'.

Parents say the new policy is 'morally wrong' as 'women have to pay more' in comparison to boys - who can buy school trousers from any supplier - and comes at a time when people are struggling financially.

The skirt has even incensed the town's mayor who has written a letter urging the school to reverse the decision.

Head teacher Peter Main has defended the new skirt saying 'as with any change it is hard to please everyone'.

Does YOUR child's school have strict uniform policies? Email matt.strudwick@mailonline.co.uk

Priestlands School, in Pennington, Hampshire, new 45 'Priestlands' tartan skirt which will be introduced from September

The school has issued strict new guidelines telling parents the skirt, which price has doubled from last year, can only be purchased from one particular outlet

The school's previous logo embossed plain pleated skirt cost from 21.99. It will be replaced from September with a 'Priestlands tartan' skirt with the school saying it had responded to feedback from parents, students and staff.

The new rules will affect the 603 girls that attend the mixed-sex school, which has 1,245 pupils.

One parent of a year eight girl, who wishes to remain anonymous, branded the new policy 'absolutely disgusting'.

The 36-year-old stay-at-home mother said: 'I think it absolutely discriminates against girls because I don't see how you can say the boys can go anywhere but the girls have to go and get measured.

'I feel like they are trying to force the girls into wearing trousers which they don't want to do.

'I know my daughter, she's not going to want to wear trousers and I don't feel it's right to dictate what she wears.'

The mother said she thinks the 'pink tax has struck again' in regards to the updated uniform.

She added: 'Woman having to pay more... it's disgusting. I just can't believe it.

'It's things like women having to pay for tampons and hygiene. And the fact that we have to pay extortionate amounts for our hair to be done.

'It shouldn't cost us more to be women and that's what I feel like they are doing.

'This is a prime example that I could go to Primark or Aldi and buy my son a pair of trousers, but for my daughter, I am forced to pay 45.

'It is just wrong on every level, it shouldn't cost us more for our children to go to school.'

A letter sent to parents by the school's head teacher Peter Main outlining the school's new uniform policy

The mother said the school skirt 'already cost quite a lot' and 'has always been astronomical' and said the school has likely been 'inundated' with complaints.

She added: 'I have asked them what the consequence will be if my daughter turns up in her old uniform... just to see.

'Everyone was of the same view, that this is discrimination.'

Another parent - who wished to remain anonymous - described the school skirt policy as 'morally wrong'.

The 46-year-old said: 'It's just a tone deaf action by people who don't have children at the school.

'The school told me it's all to do with having robust clothing that is good with the school colours.

'There's nothing in the history of this school that has a "school tartan". Where has this come from is my question?'

The parent also claimed it is 'simple profiling' and 'suggests discrimination is taking place' because girls tend to wear skirts.

The new tartan skirt can only be bought from one uniform supplier, PMG, some four miles away from the school.

After the uniform update, parents voiced their anger online.

Lisa Hale wrote: 'I personally feel this is unfair to parents with daughters as our pockets are going to be hit the hardest. Discrimination comes to mind.'

Another parent, Sian Locke, described the skirt as 'hideous and extremely overpriced'.

'There's no way my daughter will wear that and I don't blame her,' she said.

Others labelled the price of the school's new skirt 'disgusting' in a time when some families were 'struggling to put food on the table'.

But, some parents approved of the decision - as it's a way of overcoming 'the short skirts syndrome'.

One social media user, Penny Jackman, said: 'Yes it's expensive for what is no doubt horrible polyester and be a nightmare to iron the pleats back in, but honestly I was a bit taken aback by the indecently short skirts the Priestlands girls were wearing yesterday when I was at one stop.

'Barely covering their bum cheeks. I just hope they had big granny knickers on beneath but somehow I doubt it.'

The new rules will affect the 603 girls that attend the mixed-sex school, which has 1,245 pupils

The town's mayor Councillor Jack Davies has written a scathing letter to the school's head teacher urging him to reverse the decision which has left him 'shocked'.

'What is even worse by my reckoning is that parents don't have a choice,' he said.

'If a child wants to wear a skirt, and they will, then they have to fork out for this particular skirt.

'200 children at Priestlands are eligible for free school meals. I worry about how this decision will impact upon some of the most vulnerable children and their families in our area.

'During a cost of living crisis, I would expect any school to make uniform as cheap and accessible as possible.'

In response to the criticism, head teacher Mr Main said: 'After parents and students responded to a survey criticising the appearance, quality and design of the school skirt we have introduced a new one.

'We researched supply options and found a British company that could provide all necessary sizes of the knee-length checked skirt.

'Many parents have been in touch to say how much they like it and what an improvement it is. We are also aware that some parents have criticised it.

'Understanding that cost is an issue for some families, we introduced the skirt with a 50 per cent discount for all Year 11 students and a 20 per cent discount for the other years.

'We also offer support for families where finance is a barrier to purchasing uniforms.

'All students are still able to wear trousers or shorts which comply with our requirements.'

Does YOUR child's school have strict uniform policies? Email matt.strudwick@mailonline.co.uk
It was a scene straight out of a disaster movie.

A deafening bang exploded down the fuselage as a panel of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 ripped away at nearly 15,000 feet, leaving a gaping hole by row 26.

The sudden drop in air pressure sucked the stuffing out of nearby seats and tore the shirt off one man's back leaving bloody scratches across his arms and neck.

Thankfully, no one was in 26A or 25A. The force of the rapid decompression torqued the metal frames securing the seating rows to the cabin floor.

Cuong Tran was in row 27. His shoes and socks were wrenched from his feet while his legs were violently driven into the seats in front of him.

If he hadn't been wearing his seatbelt, his attorney says, he would have been ejected out into the ink-black sky.

Every passenger and crew member on that aircraft is lucky to be alive.

Commercial airplanes aren't designed to withstand the sudden loss of a cabin door mid-flight. If the plane had been at a higher altitude, it very well may have crashed, experts say.

Nightmarish footage of the January 5 drama on board that Boeing 737 MAX-9 stunned the world.

But one man was not surprised.

Sitting at home in Seattle, Joe Jacobsen sighed.

A deafening bang exploded down the fuselage as a panel of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 ripped away at nearly 15,000 feet, leaving a gaping hole by row 26.

Commercial airplanes aren't designed to withstand the sudden loss of a cabin door mid-flight. If the plane had been at a higher altitude, it very well may have crashed, experts say.

'Boeing's MAX-8 and MAX-9 are the most dangerous modern aircraft flying today,' said Jacobsen, an aerospace engineer who spent over a decade working at Boeing's Washington State headquarters. 'For years, I've been telling my children to avoid the MAXs.'

Now a litany of alarming incidents has the flying public and Congress increasingly concerned.

Last week, Alaska Airlines reported that the windshield of another Boeing 737 MAX-8 cracked as the plane descended into Portland International Airport.

Earlier this month, a post-flight inspection revealed a missing panel on a Max-8 operated by United Airlines.

Days before that an unexplained event in the cockpit of a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner over New Zealand had caused the plane to plummet 300 feet, injuring dozens.

And back in January, Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth, chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, acted to delay the certification of two new Boeing models (the MAX-7 and MAX-10).

The FAA had raised alarm over an anti-ice system on all MAX aircraft that is at risk of overheating and causing engine damage if they are used continuously for more than 5 minutes.

Boeing noted that the fault had never occurred in flight, but they acknowledged the hypothetical risk. Still, Boeing pushed for an exemption that would allow them to continue rolling aircraft off the assembly lines without fixing the problem.

Senator Duckworth wouldn't have it.

'Boeing forfeited the benefit of the doubt long ago when it comes to trusting its promises about the safety of 737 MAX,' she wrote. 'The FAA must reject its brazen request to cut corners in rushing yet another 737 MAX variant into service.'

Boeing withdrew their request and committed to fixing the anti-ice issue within 12 months - even though, there are MAX-8 and MAX-9 planes fitted with the problematic system still flying passengers today.

Some pilots have even taken to putting a sticky note on their dashboard to remind them: 'Engine Anti-Ice System 5 Minutes.'

For Joe Jacobsen, it's all too much. For too long, he said, Boeing has delayed addressing a growing list of 'unsafe conditions' on its aircraft.

Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth, chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, acted to delay the certification of two new Boeing models (the MAX-7 and MAX-10).

Some pilots have even taken to putting a sticky note on their dashboard to remind them: 'Engine Anti-Ice System 5 Minutes.'

Last week, Alaska Airlines reported that the windshield of another Boeing 737 MAX-8 cracked as the plane descended into Portland International Airport. Earlier this month, a post-flight inspection revealed a missing panel on a Max-8 (above) operated by United Airlines.

On January 10, Boeing CEO and president Dave Calhoun tearfully told employees that he had been 'shaken to the bone' by the Alaska Air accident and recognized how much work it would take to restore faith in the company.

Boeing's board, however, wasn't convinced he was the man to do the job.

On Monday this week, Calhoun abruptly announced that he would resign by the end of the year. His replacement is yet to be named.

In a letter to employees, he called the Flight 1282 accident a 'watershed moment for Boeing.'

Jacobsen says this all comes more than five years too late.

'The Lion Air Flight 610 crash was the real watershed event,' he exclusively told DailyMail.com, in reference to the Boeing 737 MAX-8 that plunged into the sea 13 minutes after taking off from Tangerang, Indonesia, on October 29, 2018. The crash killed all 189 people on board.

'Boeing has had engineers and whistleblowers telling them for years that they're producing planes with production defects. It shouldn't have taken a cabin door plug blowout for them to get the message.'

Indeed, January's Alaska Airlines disaster is hardly the first to catapult the MAXs and other Boeing aircraft onto worldwide front pages.

More than a decade ago, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a long-range widebody aircraft that can seat up to 335 passengers, was grounded after lithium-ion batteries burst into flames on two separate occasions.

One battery sparked a fire on a plane parked at Boston's Logan International Airport in January 2013. Days later, an All Nippon Airways flight made an emergency landing on Shikoku Island in Japan after smoke was detected in an electrical compartment.

A National Transportation Safety Board investigation faulted the battery manufacturer, Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration for faulty design and testing.

Jacobsen, who left Boeing in 1995 after he became disillusioned with the direction of the company, said the Dreamliner fires may have reflected a slow deterioration of quality control.

He claims Boeing became, 'hyper-focused on prioritizing financial engineering' over excellent in airplane engineering, manufacturing and design, while a good safety record convinced the FAA to increasingly rely on the company to police itself.

The results were potentially disastrous.

On Monday this week, Calhoun abruptly announced that he would resign by the end of the year. His replacement is yet to be named. In a letter to employees, he called the Flight 1282 accident a 'watershed moment for Boeing.'

'The Lion Air Flight 610 crash was the real watershed event,' he exclusively told DailyMail.com, in reference to the Boeing 737 MAX-8 that plunged into the sea 13 minutes after taking off from Tangerang, Indonesia, on October 29, 2018. The crash killed all 189 people on board

In October 2018, Lion Air Flight 610 crashed. Then less than five months later, an Ethiopian Airlines flight from Addis Ababa nosedived into the ground shortly after leaving the tarmac. All 157 passengers and crew were killed.

Both planes were MAX-8 models - variants of the MAX line currently flying. The aircraft were grounded worldwide for an unprecedented 20 months.

Investigations into the crashes revealed an astonishing new software called MCAS - Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System.

MCAS had been put in all MAXs in 2017 to prevent the aircraft from climbing too quickly and stalling out. The system forced the nose of the plane down without pilot input. And if MCAS was activated in error  it could be overridden.

The problem was the pilots of those doomed Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines flights weren't trained to disable MCAS.

Worse, according to Jacobsen and other critics, if MCAS was properly designed it would never have contributed to a crash. The FAA, however, never identified the hazard because they had delegated the certification of the system to Boeing itself.

Revelations about MCAS led to a series of bruising Congressional hearings in October 2019, at which Boeing's then-CEO Dennis Muilenburg groveled about his company's failures.

'We understand and deserve this scrutiny,' he told the Senate Commerce Committee.

The scrutiny was indeed painful: In January 2020, internal Boeing documents were released showing engineers and mechanics working on the 737 MAX-8 were deeply troubled.

'This airplane is designed by clowns, who in turn are supervised by monkeys,' said a company pilot in a message to a colleague in 2016.

'I'll be shocked if the FAA passes this turd,' another commented.

'This is a joke. This airplane is ridiculous,' said another.

In December 2022, a senior mechanic at Boeing, told aviation podcast Warning Bells that working on the MAX aircrafts had been 'chaos.'

'The manufacturing personnel didn't always have the parts that were needed, or the parts weren't fitting it never got any better.'

Unlike the MCAS crashes, the Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 door-plug disaster was a manufacturing issue, rather than a software problem  but critics say it indicates a quality control problem across the board.

In October 2018, Lion Air Flight 610 crashed. Then less than five months later, an Ethiopian Airlines flight from Addis Ababa nosedived into the ground (above) shortly after leaving the tarmac. All 157 passengers and crew were killed.

The MAX-9 model is built with an optional door toward the rear of the aircraft. Alaska Airlines asked Boeing to plug the opening with a panel so that additional seats could be added into that row.

Just a few minutes after the plane lifted off from Portland International Airport the door blew out.

A preliminary NTSB probe into the accident has determined that four bolts designed to hold the door plug in place were likely missing.

Investigators are pointing the finger at a Boeing contractor, Spirit AeroSystems, which made repairs to the aircraft in September. Boeing claims to have no documentation of which individuals performed the work.

According to Jacobsen, such sloppiness is par for the course.

'Boeing's MAX-8 and MAX-9 are the most dangerous modern aircraft flying today,' said Jacobsen (above), an aerospace engineer who spent over a decade working at Boeing's Washington State headquarters. 'For years, I've been telling my children to avoid the MAXs.'

After leaving Boeing, he did a 25-year stint at the FAA before joining the Foundation for Aviation Safety  a non-profit industry watchdog.

'Boeing talks about safety, yet they continually try to skirt the existing requirements,' said Jacobsen. 'We've seen a lot of serious problems that aren't being addressed.'

Jacobsen provided DailyMail.com with an extensive list of alleged problems with the Boeing MAX jets, which he and his team at the Foundation for Aviation Safety have been documenting through official reports, pilot logs and Freedom of Information Act requests.

The list was as long as it was terrifyingly incomprehensible to layman readers: 'frequent stab trim motor failures', 'stall management yaw damper errors', and 'insufficient redundancy on the Flap-Slat Electronics Unit'.

However, even to those without a degree in aeronautical engineering can tell you that, 'frequent engine failures', 'loose bolts' and 'compromised sealant adhesion within the center fuel tank' are not good.

And yet, today, the MAXs are a firm fixture in America's skies.

American Airlines, the world's largest fleet with over 1,000 aircraft, has 52 MAX-8s, with a further 80 on order. United Airlines - the third largest fleet - has 79 MAX-9s and 76 MAX-8s.

So, Boeing is in the captain's seat in the airline industry, but for how long?

Perhaps, it'll take more than a new CEO and president to get Boeing back on course.
Humza Yousaf has been warned that he has no long-term future as SNP leader as he marks his first year in charge today.

Senior party sources last night said the First Minister faces being forced out if the SNP does as badly as predicted at the general election.

It is understood plans are already being prepared for his early exit amid a confusing election strategy and a series of policy blunders from Bute House.

Insiders believe Mr Yousafs many own goals are responsible for a downturn in the partys fortunes, including his handling of the Michael Matheson expenses debacle, botched gender reforms battle and controversial hate crime legislation.

The First Ministers popularity rating continues to slump in the polls, along with that of his fractured party, as voters demand more focus on priorities such as the NHS, education and the economy. The growing disquiet comes just days after Nationalist MSP Kate Forbes said the party lacks vision and indicated she would be prepared to launch another leadership campaign.

Leadership victory for Mr Yousaf with Ms Regan, left, and Ms Forbes one year ago

A senior party source told the Mail:

Everybody, other than one or two of the most ardent acolytes, accepts he is just not in the same league as his two predecessors. And he keeps on getting involved in own goals, the handling of everything is wrong.

The expectation is that the UK election result will be bad so the likelihood is there will be resignation calls shortly after a bad result at Westminster. The only question will be, how will people react to that?

If we think of the longer term future of the party, Humza Yousaf doesnt really feature as leader.

Another senior member said that by the look of the polls, MSPs dont expect Humza to do very well and that will be the catalyst to remove him.

The source added: People feel they have to move delicately in a way they havent before. However, if he should fall off his horse, they will be ready.

Last week, former SNP finance secretary Ms Forbes, who lost out to Mr Yousaf in the party leadership race after Nicola Sturgeon stepped down, told the Holyrood Sources podcast: As much as I back the party and the First Minister, we can only win elections if you have a big vision we can get behind.

Asked if she would have a tilt at the leadership race again, she said: If the opportunity arises and it is the right thing for the country, the party and my family, I wouldnt rule it out.

Opposition leaders were quick to pile in on Mr Yousafs misery yesterday as they described his first year in charge as having been filled with abject failures and broken promises.

Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross claimed the First Minister had failed in more than 100 key areas, including the economy, the NHS and education.

Mr Ross said: Humza Yousafs first year as SNP leader has been nothing short of a disaster for him, his party and  most importantly  the people of Scotland.

Its a tale of independence obsession, abject failures and broken promises; of a First Minister out of his depth and unable to control his feuding, scandal-ridden party. Humza Yousaf has ignored the real priorities of Scots  fixing our ailing public services and growing the economy  and instead doubled down on the SNPs fixation with breaking up the UK, while cosying up to the anti-growth Greens.

This damning dossier lays bare his appalling record, which includes every A&E target being missed, Scotlands economy shrinking, rising levels of violent and sexual crimes, unacceptable train cancellations at SNP-run ScotRail and public cash being squandered on independence propaganda papers.

Later this year voters will get the chance to cast their verdict on his and the SNPs dire reign. In swathes of seats across Scotland they know that only the Scottish Tories can beat the SNP and get the focus back to the issues that matter to them. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar pointed to the SNPs electoral troubles in the past year, particularly the loss of

the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election to Labour and the defection of two elected members  former SNP leadership candidate Ash Regan MSP to the Alba Party and MP Lisa Cameron to the Conservatives, as well as MP Angus MacNeil leaving the party.

He said: After a year in post it is clear to see that Humza Yousaf is a weak leader who is out of his depth and leading a chaotic and divided government.

Every sector of our public services is now weaker thanks to Humza Yousafs SNP. Not only is it clear to the people of Scotland that Humza Yousaf has no vision for the future  even his own former Cabinet colleagues are saying so in public.

This is a record of shame and failure. It is no surprise that the people of Scotland are now looking for change.

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said: The SNP defied political gravity for many years but they are coming back down to earth with a bump. Scandals have engulfed their party and every policy initiative they touch ends in chaos. I almost feel a little sorry for Humza Yousaf.

A spokesman for the First Minister said: Opposition parties will oppose  its their job, and the job given to them by the electorate for the past 17 years and counting.

The most recent polling evidence is that the SNP remains ahead of the opposition on who people trust on health, education, the economy and cost of living.

The First Minister is governing on the basis of clear values [and] showing leadership on major issues, such as consistently calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
At an event this week to mark the 25th anniversary of devolution, Nationalist MSP Kate Forbes declared: People need to be inspired by leadership. And as much as I back the party and the current First Minister, we can only win elections if you have a big vision we can get behind.

This was not, she clarified later, an attack on her boss Humza Yousaf, who today celebrates the one-year anniversary of his election as First Minister. It sure as heck looked like it though. And boy, on the substance, she was right.

Scotland needs a big vision and firm leadership if were to combat the many challenges our country faces. The truth is we have lacked that vision under Mr Yousafs charge this past year.

Vast questions are stacking up  over economic growth, the future of the NHS and the state of our environment. But this has been a year marked less by big vision than about the little things. It has not met the demands of our time.

Take this week, in which Mr Yousaf has been out defending the hate crime Act that will come into force next Monday: another piece of legislation that, characteristically for the Scottish Government, looks set to create more problems for police and the public than those which it seeks to solve.

Occasionally well-meaning, often actively damaging, but typically irrelevant to the key issues we face, its a useful emblem of how the past year has gone under the First Ministers watch.

Scotland needs big vision and firm leadership  something the country has lacked under Humza Yousaf, argues Eddie Barnes

Readers will have their own priorities in Scottish politics. These are some of mine: the complete unsustainability of our health and social care system; the consequences of a rapidly ageing society; the growing tax gap between Scotland and the UK; the knock-on consequences for economic growth and the impact this has on incomes, particularly among the poorest families; the growth in long-term sickness and the cost this puts on Scotlands (equally unsustainable) benefits system; the cost of the green transition; the decline of education standards towards mediocrity; and the centralisation of power in Edinburgh.

Issues

Im certain Mr Yousaf is as conscious of these big issues as any frontline politician, and Im sure he has a line to take on all of them.

I struggle, however, to think of many, if any, hard choices he has made in the past year that demonstrate he wants to tackle them in a serious manner.

The urgency of these issues can surely not be denied  and nor can the Scottish Governments sloth in response. Only yesterday, a poll of business leaders by the Institute of Directors revealed that the SNPs tax regime was now a major concern for eight out of ten of them. Nearly 40 per cent noted that staff recruitment was likely to be impacted.

The NHS is on its knees, with reform urgently required. Yet even a national conversation, promised in the Scottish Governments Budget statement last December, has found the long grass. We appear to be led by a government that cant even talk about the problems were facing on health and social care, never mind fix them.

On education, where Nicola Sturgeon once vowed to be judged on whether she improved standards for low-income students, Mr Yousaf has left the matter alone.

On the environment, the independent Climate Change Committee last week declared that the SNPs world-leading targets to cut emissions by 2030 were now impossible to meet.

If ever there is a totem of the SNPs style of government here it was: promise big, deliver little, blame Westminster.

Mr Yousaf has had plenty to say over the past year, of course; he is rarely off our screens.

Leadership

But instead of using his office to demonstrate leadership in the big areas he has responsibility for  the economy, education, health, the environment  he too often lapses into the role of commentator.

Indeed, you might say hes become Scotlands First Commentator. Some of this commentary has been admirable I should add.

For example, I respect the way Mr Yousaf has sought to talk about the problem of misogyny among young men in the UK. I just question whether commentary adds up to leadership on the big things that really matter.

Meanwhile, creating the appearance of leadership has taken precedence over much in the way of actual substance. I think of Mr Yousafs visit to Cop28 in Egypt last November, where he got himself embroiled in a diplomatic tangle after organising a brush past with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The affair was characteristically Yousafian: it prompted a good old-fashioned political row with the UK Government, and it got Mr Yousaf a nice photograph to add to his collection.

Yet four months after all that hassle, all the efforts from Scottish civil servants to ensure Mr Yousaf had two or three minutes of chit-chat with a world leader, the whole business has now been entirely forgotten.

The trip amounted to nothing. What a complete waste of everyones time.

Perhaps Unionists like me who worry about the SNPs dominance of the political scene should be grateful for this. For on the big issue  the promotion of independence  Mr Yousafs contribution has been to let the air out of the balloon.

Over the past 12 months, a lonely group of civil servants have been forced to write a series of turgid papers on independence. These have gone straight to landfill.

And rather than set out a fresh plan, Mr Yousaf has adopted the tried and trusted Sturgeon method, in which glaring holes in the independence case are dealt with by dismissing anyone who points at them.

Arguments on the case for independence now receive half-hearted applause from half-filled halls.

As Ms Forbes says, the big vision is palpably missing. Hurrah say all of us.

But its no cause for celebration. Not when the long-term challenges facing Scotland continue to be ignored.

Mr Yousafs strengths will probably come to the fore over the coming months as we turn to the election. I think hell prove a better campaigner than his opponents think.

Pain

But great political leadership requires more. It requires people who are prepared to grab difficult issues and make unpopular decisions for the common good.

It requires leaders who find a way to take the public with them, explaining why short-term pain is necessary for long-term gain.

It demands people who wake up every day thinking how to create more jobs, to ensure that, when their short time in office expires, there will be something of their work that lingers.

If SNP gossip is to be believed, Mr Yousafs short time in office may be shorter than he thinks  perhaps only as far as this autumns expected election.

My unwanted advice to the First Minister as he embarks on his second, and potentially final, year in office would be to think of the big things he wants to achieve before he joins the long list of unremembered ex-leaders. Sad to say, Im not holding my breath.
Family and friends gathered on Tuesday for the funeral of Alex Murdaugh's mother, Elizabeth 'Libby' Murdaugh, who died last week at the age of 85.

Exclusive pictures obtained by DailyMail.com show more than a hundred mourners attended the service at Varnville's United Methodist Church in Hampton, South Carolina, which was followed by a commitment at the family plot in Hampton Cemetery.

Alex Murdaugh, 55, who is now in prison for the murders of his wife, Maggie, 52, and youngest son, Paul, 22, as well as a host of financial crimes, was not present.

Buster Murdaugh was seen arriving in Hampton, South Carolina for his paternal grandmother's funeral on Tuesday morning, exclusive DailyMail.com photos show

Buster, 30, unmistakable for the distinctive red hair that he and his late brother Paul both inherited from their father, Alex Murdaugh, wore a gray suit and sunglasses for the service

Exclusive pictures obtained by DailyMail.com show more than a hundred mourners attended the burial service at the family plot in Hampton Cemetery

Alex Murdaugh, who is currently serving two life sentences for the murders of his younger son and wife in 2021, was not eligible for special release to bury his mother, Elizabeth 'Libby' Murdaugh (right) who died at her home aged 85 on March 19

As a violent prisoner, and one who has been disciplined for communications with a documentary film-making team as well as use of another inmate's phone privileges, Murdaugh was not eligible for special day-release under the guidelines of McCormick Correctional Institution where he is currently being held.

He is serving two life-sentences with no hope of parole for the crimes that took place June 7, 2021.

Murdaugh's older son Buster, 30, unmistakable for the distinctive red hair that he and his brother both inherited from their father, was there to pay his respects to his grandmother who was, according to her obituary, surrounded by family and friends when she died at her Varnville home on March 19.

Buster, who is the only surviving member of his family besides his incarcerated father, wore a gray suit for the service on Tuesday.

Photos show the elder Murdaugh son being hugged and consoled by family members as they gathered outside the church in between the funeral and burial services.

Alex Murdaugh had attempted to rope his mother into providing him with an alibi even though the elderly woman was suffering from dementia at the time he committed his crimes.

Buster, who is the only surviving member of his immediate family that is not in prison, was consoled by relatives outside the Varnville United Methodist Church on Tuesday

He was seen sharing an emotional embrace with a relative as family members gathered outside the church

Family and friends gathered at Varnville United Methodist Church before the burial service

The former librarian and teacher had been in declining health for years and therefore not eligible to testify at her son's trial last year.

A jury decided that Murdaugh had driven to his mother's house after shooting his wife and son dead to arrange an alibi.

On the night of Maggie and Paul's murders he told investigators he had left his hunting lodge, Moselle, to visit Libby at her home.

Murdaugh claimed that he spent 40 minutes with her, watching a show, before returning to the hunting estate to find Maggie and Paul brutally gunned down near the family's dog-kennels.

They had both been shot multiple times at short range  Paul with a shotgun, Maggie with a rifle.

Libby, a former librarian and teacher, had been in declining health for years and therefore unable to testify at her son's trial last year

Libby was remembered by Reverends Jack Hutto and John Culp as a woman whose, 'greatest loves were family, grandchildren and friends'

The 85-year-old was buried alongside her husband, former Solicitor Randolph Murdaugh III, who died in hospital three days after Maggie and Paul were murdered

Murdaugh's wife Maggie and younger son Paul, whom he was convicted of murdering, are buried in the same plot as the elder relatives

But Murdaugh's alibi imploded at trial when his mother's caretaker, Mushelle Smith, took the stand to testify that Murdaugh had indeed visited that evening, but that the 'unusual' trip lasted barely 20 minutes.

She stated that Murdaugh appeared to stash material that she described as a 'blue tarp,' and left within twenty minutes of arriving.

She described Muraugh as 'fidgety' and recalled that he later telephoned her and attempted to convince her to say that he had been at his mother's home almost twice as long as he actually had.

Investigators found a blue raincoat covered with gun residue at the back of Murdaugh's mother's property.

Similarly, Murdaugh's claim to have not been down at the kennels with Maggie and Paul in the moments before their deaths was exposed as a lie by an iPhone video.

The video clip, taken by Paul and sent to a friend just minutes before his death, captured Murdaugh's distinctive voice in the background, irrefutably placing him at the scene of the crimes.

Libby was married to former Solicitor Randolph Murdaugh III for 60 years before his death in 2021

The disgraced lawyer tried to use his late mother Libby as an alibi in the murders of his wife and son. He is pictured with his wife Maggie and their two sons Paul (left) and Buster

Maggie, 52, and Paul, 22, were found shot dead on the grounds of the family home on June 7. Maggie was killed with an assault rifle, whereas Paul had been killed with a shotgun. Both were shot multiple times

Today, 'Libby' was remembered by Reverends Jack Hutto and John Culp as a woman whose, 'greatest loves were family, grandchildren and friends.'

She was married to former Solicitor Randolph Murdaugh III for 60 years.

The elected prosecutor along with his father and grandfather oversaw criminal cases in Hampton County and surrounding areas for nearly nine decades.

Randolph was in the hospital the night Maggie and Paul were shot dead.

Libby was laid to rest alongside her late husband who died June 10, 2021, just three days after Maggie and Paul's horrific murders.

Their gravestones stand side by side in the family plot.

Libby's daughter, Lynn Goettee and sons Randy and John Marvin were also there to mourn their mother's passing along with their spouses and Libby's numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Thousands of cancer patients faced agonising waits for treatment in Scotland last year as queues for care hit a record high.

More than 5,000 patients referred for potentially life-saving medical attention were stuck on lengthy lists for more than two months.

Almost 1,500 with suspected cancer waited more than a month for treatment to start despite urgent referrals.

Patients should be seen within 62 days of being referred, but for the final quarter of last year, fewer than three-quarters of patients were seen within the time frame, new data shows.

It falls woefully short of the SNP Governments target  which has not been met for more than a decade  for 95 per cent of patients to be seen within two months.

Kate Seymour of Macmillan Cancer Support said the data shows cancer waiting times in Scotland were the worst year on record in 2023 and are still worsening. She added: Hundreds of people each month continue to face anxiously long waits for cancer treatment and the cancer workforce in Scotland is exhausted, working in crisis conditions. Its unsustainable.

Opposition parties have demanded action from health secretary Neil Gray after cancer targets were missed

Watchdog is quizzed over A&E warning

Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Health Secretary Neil Gray held talks with NHS watchdogs yesterday after doctors concerns about patient safety seemed to have been ignored. Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) was forced to apologise to A&E consultants at Glasgows Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for shortcomings in investigating evidence about overcrowding and staff shortages. Worries about seriously compromised patient safety were first flagged by 29 consultants in May 2023, but the watchdog did not ask to see the evidence or meet any of the doctors. Instead, it spoke to senior executives at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. Mr Gray told BBC Radio Scotlands Good Morning Scotland programme it was of critical importance that medical professionals were able to raise such concerns, and the way the case was handled was not acceptable. Advertisement Watchdog is quizzed over A&E warningWatchdog is quizzed over A&E warning

It is crucial that the Scottish Government takes action to ensure their own targets can be met and people living with cancer can get the care they need and deserve, now and in the future.

Dr Sandesh Gulhane, health spokesman for the Scottish Conservatives, warned of a terrifying ticking time bomb of cancer cases on the SNPs watch, adding: It should be a source of shame for them that well over a quarter of cancer patients are waiting over two months to begin treatment.

Of the 4,457 people referred between October and December last year, Public Health Scotland data showed only 71.1 per cent of patients started receiving treatment on time. It was down from 71.9 per cent in the previous quarter and compares with 83.7 per cent of patients starting treatment in the target time in the last three months of 2019, before the Covid pandemic.

In the latest figures, only NHS Orkney met the 62-day standard. In NHS Shetland, just 50 per cent of patients started cancer treatment within two months of being referred, while in NHS Grampian the figure was 54.4 per cent.

Dr Gulhane added: Successive SNP health secretaries have failed to meet this target for over a decade and cannot hide behind Covid as an excuse for these shocking stats. Health Secretary Neil Gray must get a grip on cancer waiting times urgently, otherwise more patients will face the devastating consequences.

NHS Scotland as a whole has not met the 62-day target since the final three months of 2012.

Scottish Labour health spokesman Jackie Baillie said: Cancer is Scotlands biggest killer and we know that early detection and treatment leads to better outcomes  but the fact is the SNP Governments failure to support NHS staff is creating a cancer care time bomb.

A second target for 95 per cent of cancer patients to begin treatment within 31 days of a decision being made to treat them was narrowly missed, Public Health Scotland said.

This target was achieved for 94.1 per cent of the 6,829 eligible patients from October to December last year  down from 94.9 per cent the previous quarter.

Mr Gray said: Were treating more patients on 62 and 31-day pathways than before the Covid-19 pandemic  over 700 more and over 400 more respectively in this latest quarter. We remain absolutely committed to reducing waiting times.
Many of us try to shop locally to support businesses and cut down on wasteful journeys.

But Scots are being overcharged millions of pounds for everyday items in corner shops, an investigation has found.

Hundreds of goods were found to be overpriced, while shoppers were short-changed on dozens which weighed less than they should.

Officers working for Trading Standards checked pricing on 20,000 products in 417 convenience stores across the country.

They found 22.4 per cent were not priced at all and unit price indications were incorrect in 34.1 per cent of cases.

At the till, 5,997 products were checked, with 11.6 per cent being incorrectly charged  79 per cent of these to the detriment of the consumer.

Trading Standards officers checked pricing on thousands of products in hundreds of shops and found customers were being overcharged by millions of pounds

The report estimates that shoppers are being overcharged by up to 10million a year through pricing errors.

Alexandra Connell, of the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland, said: Transparency in pricing is at the heart of fair trade in goods and is a core issue for Trading Standards teams across Scotland, making sure that consumers pay the correct price for their purchases and that businesses are diligent in presenting goods for sale accurately and legally.

With a continuing cost of living crisis, it is important that the processes and systems that should be in place are working properly and that consumers pay the correct amount for their shopping.

My advice to shoppers is always check prices carefully when in store and make sure you have been properly charged at the till.

Trading Standards officers from 18 local councils took part in a project aimed at identifying where goods were wrongly priced or not priced at all. They looked at whether items on the shelves were priced as required, that the price charged at the till was the same as the marked price and whether unit prices, which allow consumers to compare products, were marked where required.

Weight checks were carried out on packaged goods at 146 retail outlets, with short weight products identified during 47 of these visits.

Examples included a 750g steak pie with a gross weight of 578g, representing a loss to consumers of 1.97 per pack, and 7.5kg hardwood eco logs that weighed only 6.18kg.

Investigators found a multipack of Fanta with a price marking of 1.75 where the price charged at the till was 3.29.

Another retailer advertised Nescafe Gold Blend coffee at 3.50 but charged 4.50 at the point of sale. The trading standards teams have given advice and issued verbal warnings and advisory letters to shops where issues were identified.

Excuses from store managers included a lack of staff awareness around legal requirements.

John Herriman, chief executive of the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, said price transparency and trust in measurement were crucial.

Sam Ghibaldan, chief executive of Consumer Scotland, said it was essential shoppers had accurate information particularly during a cost of living crisis when consumers are facing increased hardship.
NHS bosses pushed Scots care homes to impose Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders on residents during the pandemic, the Scottish Covid-19 Inquiry heard.

Blanket orders were sent out by health chiefs in a bid to ease pressure on the health service, the inquiry was told yesterday.

It also heard how sick care home residents were not taken to hospitals because it would take too long to disinfect ambulances, that personal items would be confiscated over infection fears and Christmas trees were banned because of apparent Covid risks.

Peter McCormick, managing director of Randolph Hill Nursing Homes, told Lord Brailsfords inquiry in Edinburgh that talks about whether to use a DNR were a normal part of care home life.

He said: There was an impression that there was  Im not sure this is the right phrase  but a push on by the NHS to get more of these things in place. In one of our homes we received [DNRs] for all our residents that hadnt already got one in place.

Mr McCormick added: I think that there was a restriction in terms of access to care for people in care homes. I think that was a decision that must have been made by the NHS.

Peter McCormick told Lord Brailsfords inquiry in Edinburgh that talks about whether to use a DNR were a normal part of care home life

I think it was the pressures on the NHS and a decision, or at least a direction of travel, which was to limit the access to hospitals for nursing home residents.

Madeana Laing, a manager at Beech Manor Care Home in Blairgowrie, Perthshire, told junior counsel inquiry Faryma Bahrami she was informed you will need to look at who doesnt have DNRs because they will now need to have one.

Ms Laing said homes would have to fight very, very hard to get an ill resident admitted to hospital. You could clearly see that if they went to hospital they had a really good chance of improving, of getting over what was making them unwell in the first place, she said. But it was almost like, you were not playing God, but it was just no you cant go, so you just have to stay, when you could have got better if you had been given the chance.

Mary Rodgers, manager of Edinburghs Blenham House Nursing Home, told the inquiry: At the very beginning when we did have very sick people who did have Covid, one conversation was that they couldnt be taken to hospital because it would take too long to clean the ambulance, to disinfect it, so they wouldnt be going.

Due to fears of spreading infection, we werent allowed to put up a Christmas tree for the residents which might have been their last Christmas, she added.

The inquiry, which is continuing, also heard care homes were expected to remove personal belongings from rooms.
Pictured is the U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint, located at mile marker 29 of Interstate 35. Courtesy/Google Maps

A truck driver transported four migrants as a favor for a friend, according to an arrest affidavit.

John Wayne Peay was arrested on the charges of transport, attempt to transport and conspire to transport the migrants.

A yellow Freightliner driven by Peay arrived at the Interstate 35 checkpoint at about 3:25 p.m. March 21. Asked if anybody else was in the sleeper area, Peay hesitated to respond, states the affidavit.

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Peay kept a watchful eye on the K-9 unit, which then alerted to possible contraband within the vehicle. An agent asked Peay if he could open the side compartment door from inside the tractor. Further inspection yielded four migrants hiding in the sleeper area.

In a post-arrest interview, Peay stated that a friend who met at a convenience store asked him to give some friends a ride to San Antonio as a favor. Peay did not do it the first time because he was traveling with his girlfriend, authorities said.

Peay texted his friend on March 20 to let him know that he was willing to do the favor. Peay said he expected a payment of $2,000 for transporting the migrants to San Antonio, according to court documents.
Soon after 1am on Tuesday morning, a 985ft container ship smashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, destroying the structure entirely.

More than 30,000 vehicles travel over the bridge every day and the port it guards is the ninth busiest in America, handling $80 billion of foreign cargo each year.

As of publication, at least six people were presumed dead, making it the first fatal US boat-bridge collision in over 20 years.

Here DailyMail.com gives the first full account of how the catastrophe unfolded in devastating minute-by-minute detail

Tuesday, March 19

The nine-year-old container ship 'Dali' arrives in New York from Panama.

The giant vessel is made from high-strength steel and is powered by one engine and propeller. It's owned by the Singapore-based Grace Ocean and chartered by Denmark's Maersk.

The giant vessel is made from thick, high-strength steel and is powered by one engine and one propeller. It's owned by the Singapore-based Grace Ocean and chartered by Denmark's Maersk.

Soon after 1am on Tuesday morning, the Dali smashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, destroying the structure entirely.

Saturday, March 23

Dali sails to Baltimore via Virginia and docks in the Seagirt Marine Terminal, near Point Breeze.

It's 20-strong crew disembark and are greeted by a local charity who act as a 'friendly face' for the foreign sailors  all from India.

Sunday, March 24

Dali's crew stock up on snacks and toiletries at local branches of Walmart, Target and Best Buy.

Monday, Monday 25

Tomorrow, they will set off on a 28-day voyage to Sri Lanka.

The voyage route has had to be been modified. Dali will now sail around South Africa to avoid Houthi rebel activity in the Red Sea.

Tuesday, March 26

12.45am

Dali sets sail in Baltimore with a local specially trained pilot onboard. (This is standard procedure in ports, as locals know the marina's complicated hazards best.)

The weather is unremarkable. There is little to no wind.

12.46am

Construction workers from Brawner Builders are working a nightshift on the Francis Scott Key Bridge (built in 1977 for $60million and named after the writer of America's national anthem, 'The Star Spangled Banner').

They're pouring concrete to fill potholes along the 1.6mile-long structure.

12.56am

Dali turns out of the port and heads southeast towards the bridge and sea beyond.

It motors straight ahead, reaching speeds of around 8.1 knots (9mph).

1.24am

The construction workers are taking their lunchbreak on the bridge.

The Dali approaches and slows to around 7 knots (8pmh).

In a suspected electrical failure, the lights on the ship flicker out and plunge the vessel into darkness.

1.24 AM: In a suspected electrical failure, the lights on the ship flicker out and plunge the vessel into darkness.

Miguel Luna, 49, and Maynor Suazo, 38, were named by their family as two of the missing men

1.26am

The Dali suddenly veers southwest, heading for one of the Key Bridge's main pillar.

The local pilot on the ship issues a mayday alert, warning they have lost engine power and are unable to steer.

Experts say workers and cars on the bridge wouldn't have been able to hear the ship's whistle.

Bridge staff hear the mayday over their radios and urgently start closing the road. There isn't time to warn the construction workers.

The workers turn to see the ship heading towards them, its lights flickering, but assume it will pass straight under.

The Dali's engine appears to restart on an emergency generator before cutting out again immediately.

1.27am

A plume of thick black smoke billows from the top of the Dali as it careens towards the bridge.

Unknowing vehicles speed across and clear the bridge with seconds to spare.

1.27am

The Dali collides with a bridge support pillar. It takes just four seconds for the entire structure to crumble.

The bridge splits into three sections, bending in half at the center and collapsing into the water.

A huge wave barrels inland up the river as the bridge and road hit the surface.

Sparks and smoke pour from the wreck.

A bridge official sends a desperate radio message: 'The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever everybody. The whole bridge just collapsed!'

1.29am

Broken shards of bridge sink beneath the water and smoke obscures the Dali. The Coast Guard deploys three response vessels.

Calls pour in to emergency services. People are suspected to be trapped in the water.

1.30am

Giorgio Comninos is awoken in his bed. He lives in nearby and hears a deafening rumble. He assumes the noise is an earthquake or low-flying military aircraft.

1.27 AM: A plume of thick black smoke billows from the top of the Dali as it careens towards the bridge.

1.35am

Baltimore City Police are told about a partial bridge collapse with victims possibly in the water. The Fire Department are dispatched for a water rescue.

1.50am

The first fire team arrives on scene and reports that there were 'likely multiple people' in the water.

1.59am

News of the incident begins to trickle out as the Maryland Transportation Authority (MTA) posts on X that the Key Bridge has been closed 'for incident'.

3.07am

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott is awoken and heads straight to the scene.

5.08am

US Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg tweets: 'Rescue efforts remain underway and drivers in the Baltimore area should follow local responder guidance on detours and response.'

6.03am

Maryland Governor Wes Moore declares a state of emergency and requests federal support from the White House.

6.10am

Family members of the bridge construction workers gather at the Royal Farms convenience store near the entrance to the bridge.

They tell reporters that they haven't yet received any official guidance on where their loved ones are.

6.30am

Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace holds the first press conference on the emergency, stating that two people have been rescued from the water so far.

One person has been rushed to a nearby trauma center in very serious condition.

Wallace says they are looking for at least seven others.

Rescue crews have been using using sonar to search both below and on the wreck of the bridge as well as on the deck of the ship.

Vehicles  including a tractor and several cars  have been detected deep in the water.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott describes the incident as 'an unthinkable tragedy'.

1.35 AM: Baltimore City Police are told about a partial bridge collapse with victims possibly in the water. The Fire Department are dispatched for a water rescue.

5.08 AM: US Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg tweets, 'Rescue efforts remain underway and drivers in the Baltimore area should follow local responder guidance on detours and response.'

6.40am

Experts fear that anyone in the water will likely have frozen to death.

6.58am

The US Navy confirms they haven't yet received a request for support but that they are ready to assist if required.

7.00am

As the sun rises, the true extent of the destruction becomes evident.

The bridge's warped steel frame rests perilously on top of the front of the Dali, with multiple cargo containers crushed and knocked over.

7.21am

A second news conference is held. Maryland Secretary of Transportation Paul Wiedefeld confirms that a location has been set up for family members of the missing.

7.47am

Singaporean company Synergy Marine Group  which manages the Dali  confirms that all crew are safe, including the two pilots. No injuries are reported.

A few minutes later they say that an 'experienced captain' had been on board when the ship crashed.

8.29am

A no-fly zone is established around the bridge by the Federal Aviation Authority, forbidding drones from flying in the area for fear that they will hinder rescue efforts.

9.23am

The National Transportation Safety Board launches an investigation into the collapse of the bridge.

9.53am

A third news conference confirms that, thanks to the Dali's mayday signal, 'many of the vehicles were stopped before they got onto the bridge, which saved lives.'

9.58am

Mayor Scott officially declares a state of local emergency. It will remain in place for 30 days.

12.06pm

A construction worker for Brawner Builders, James Krutzfeldt, tells reporters that he still doesn't know where his colleagues are. He thinks fondly of one of the missing men as a 'work dad'.

12.21pm

It's revealed that many of the workers on the bridge were new fathers, having welcomed babies in the past year.

Calls from co-workers to the missing men's mobiles go straight to voicemail.

12.49pm

President Biden holds a White House press conference and pledges that the federal government will pay reconstruction costs.

He owns a home in nearby Delaware and says he has personally crossed over the bridge 'many, many times'.

12.21 PM: It's revealed that many of the workers on the bridge were new fathers, having welcomed babies in the past year. Calls from co-workers to the missing men's mobiles go straight to voicemail.

12.49 PM: President Biden holds a White House press conference and pledges that the federal government will pay reconstruction costs.

1.20pm

Meteorologists warn that the approaching low tide will hinder rescue efforts. There is also a full moon spring tide which can cause dangerous rip currents.

2.27pm

Officials now confirm they are looking for six people.

Locals gather along the shoreline and watch for survivors as rescue efforts continue in the harbor.

3.00pm

Experts begin to examine footage of the crash and say there were clearly serious mechanical issues with the ship.

Master Mariner, Captain Kurt Hallier, tells DailyMail.com that 'bad fuel that clogged up the fuel lines' could be responsible for the apparent power outage.

6.00pm

Rescue efforts continue to grow, with crews arriving from across the country.

More than 50 divers are searching the icy waters for survivors.

7.30pm

The six missing are presumed dead. The Coast Guard ends its active search mission and announces a 'different phase'.

'We do not believe that we are going to find any of these individuals still alive,' they say.

Five cars and a cement truck have been found in the water using sonar and infrared technology.

Conditions are now too dangerous for rescue divers. The search effort is suspended.

8.00pm

The Guatemalan Ministry of Foreign Affairs reveals that two of their nationals were working on the bridge when it collapsed.

Wednesday, March 27

6.00am

The search resumes, divers re-enter the water, and the family of Miguel Luna say he is one of the missing men.

The father of three, from El Salvador, has lived in New York for 19 years.

A second man is identified as 38-year-old Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval  a married father of two from Honduras who has lived in the United States for 18 years.

7.30 PM: Conditions are now too dangerous for rescue divers. The search effort is suspended.

7.00am

An investigative crew boards the Dali and recover the ship's 'black box' which holds crucial information for investigators about what went wrong.

The Chilean Navy confirms the Dali was held in Chile briefly in June last year due to a propulsion issue.

Chilean authorities inspected the Dali and found a 'deficiency' for 'propulsion and auxiliary machinery  gauges, thermometers, etc' according to records seen by CNN.

The ship was checked again in September 2023 by the US Coast Guard in New York and no deficiencies were found.

3.00pm

Baltimore port worker Julie Mitchell tells reporters that the Dali had been experiences power issues in the two days before the crash.

'They were having serious power outages they had a severe electrical problem,' Mitchell says. 'It was total power failure, loss of engine power, everything.'

5.00pm

Officials say two bodies have been found in a submerged vehicle and pulled to shore.
Activists say they're close to creating a UN tribunal to pressure the US to settle its $14 trillion debt to the descendants of slaves as part of a global reckoning against centuries of race-based discrimination.

Justin Hansford, a Biden Administration nominee, told DailyMail.com of 'concrete' efforts to launch a UN reparations tribunal at the world body's Permanent Forum on People of African Descent in Geneva next month.

The tribunal would assess the harmful legacies of the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, and Jim Crow segregation, and push America and other governments to apologize and compensate those still suffering their effects, said Hansford.

'This is a chance for us to pave a new pathway for justice for the entire world,' Hansford, a Howard University Law Professor, told DailyMail.com.

Justin Hansford, a Biden Administration nominee, says a UN tribunal could get America to pay for slavery-era sins

Hansford and others are pushing for a UN tribunal of experts to direct governments how to compensate other countries and their own citizens

He and other envoys will hash out a framework for the tribunal at the Palais des Nations from April 16-19 and propose the scheme to UN members for approval in the subsequent months, he said.

Their tribunal plan is a long-shot  efforts at the UN frequently take years and even decades to get off the launch pad.

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 326 votes

No 10917 votes

Not sure 57 votes Now share your opinion





Reparations schemes are particularly controversial, and it remains unclear whether the UN's former colonial members in Europe and beyond would back a body that could end up costing them trillions of dollars.

But there does appear to be growing momentum behind reparations among African, Caribbean and Latin American nations, and this week UN chief Antonio Guterres added his voice to the effort.

In a statement to mark the UN International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery, Guterres said the past 'laid the foundations for a violent discrimination system based on white supremacy.'

'We call for reparatory justice frameworks to help overcome generations of exclusion and discrimination, said the secretary general.

According to Hansford, the planned tribunal would comprise 20-30 jurists and experts who would assess the impacts of slavery and advise UN members how to compensate other nations as well as their own citizens, he added.

UN chief Antonio Guterres slammed the historic 'discrimination system based on white supremacy'

The 2024 Permanent Forum on People of African Descent was held at the Palais des Nations from April 16-19

A statue in Paris, France, of a heroine in the fight against slavery in Guadeloupe

An exhibition in London's Trafalgar Square about the Transatlantic Slave Trade

In the case of the US, Hansford said payouts could amount to $12-14 trillion, including $5 million checks to US citizen descendants of slaves.

'I don't expect the UN to be able to force the US to give black Americans reparations,' said Hansford, a descendant of slaves in Forsyth, Georgia.

'But I would like the UN to hold a tribunal to look through the evidence and decide what is a fair outcome  and we can use that as a starting point for what to do in the United States.'

Still, he acknowledged that cash payouts to individuals were 'divisive' and that such alternatives as investments in schools and hospitals for African Americans were also on the table.

'It can get twisted and seem like a grievance and people are just clamoring for resources, but a tribunal can provide a certain level of fair-mindedness and hear the evidence in a responsible way,' he said.

Hansford, director of the Thurgood Marshall Civil Rights Center, was nominated by the Biden Administration to serve as an independent expert for the forum's 2022-2024 term.

The US Mission to the UN did not answer DailyMail.com's request for comment.

From the 15th to the 19th century, at least 12.5 million Africans were kidnapped, forcibly transported by European ships and merchants and sold into slavery.

The 2023 Permanent Forum on People of African Descent was held in New York City in June 2023

Los Angeles resident Walter Foster pushed for reparations to be on the global agenda

Those who survived the brutal voyage ended up toiling on plantations in the Americas, including in Brazil, the Caribbean and the United States, while others profited from their labor.

A UN report in September suggested countries should consider financial reparations to compensate for slavery.

The idea of paying reparations or making other amends for slavery has a long history, but the movement has been gaining momentum worldwide.

A Caribbean reparations initiative involves debt cancellations and support to tackle public health crises, from former colonial powers such as the United Kingdom, France, and Portugal.

The Repair Campaign, which is producing socio-economic reparation plans for Caribbean nations, released a poll on Monday showing four in ten people in the UK agreed the Caribbean should receive financial compensation

Another three in five agreed a formal apology was due.

In the US, the schemes are popular with 77 percent of the black Americans, who could benefit from payouts, according to Pew Research Center polling.

But only 18 percent of whites  who would shoulder an extra tax burden  support them.

Critics say they cost too much, are unfair, and will sow divisions between winners and losers.
A hardworking family of asylum seekers who run a successful business could be left penniless and homeless after they were stripped of their right to work in Australia.

For the last 11 years, the Kashani family have called Australia home after fleeing persecution in their native Iran.

They have since settled in Melbourne's north where they opened a popular busy kebab shop several years ago, which now employs a dozen staff.

Eldest daughter Atena, 20, won a scholarship to study law at university before government bureaucrats shattered those dreams late last year.

She was forced to abandoned her studies after the family were told she did not have study rights under their bridging visas.

Now the Department of Home Affairs has told the Kashanis the family will also be stripped of their working rights.

The move has been branded 'gutless' by A Current Affair host Ally Langdon in a savage blast at Labor's immigration minister Andrew Giles.

The Kashani family (pictured) moved to Australia 11 years and are still waiting to be granted permanent residency

READ MORE: British backpacker saved from deportation as she fights to stay in Australia for good British expat Jana Padfield could be one step closer to gaining permanent residency Advertisement

The family are unable to claim Centrelink benefits as they haven't been granted permanent residency

'We wouldn't have any source of income, we wouldn't be able to pay rent,' Atena, who has worked at Bunnings, told the program.

'We wouldn't be able to afford groceries, we wouldn't be able to do anything.

'To be hinted that we're being punished for speaking out, it just shows how cruel and inhumane these rules are that no one is being held accountable for anything.'

Atena's mother Fatemeh, who also works at the hardware store, is distraught at the prospect the family could eventually be deported.

She recently wound up in hospital due to the anxiety the saga has caused.

'We are not human to this county,' Fatemeh said.

'I feel helpless. I need a normal life.'

Her daughter added: 'You would think after 11 years, we would be able to call Australia home.'

The department has since given the family a six month reprieve to continue working.

Atena had to give up her university studies because the family did not have study rights under their bridging visas.

The family have met Labor immigration minister Andrew Giles who has the power to grant the family permanent residency and previously vowed to help the Kashanis.

Long before Labor were elected into government in 2022, Mr Giles proudly posed for photos with Atena holding a swag of taekwondo medals a few years ago.

'He said to us 'Take a photo with me, Australia is proud of you - we need you,' Fatemeh recalled.

Atena recalled Mr Giles vowing to come to her taekwondo fights and promising that a Labor government would do everything to support the family if elected.

The family also volunteered for the Labor during the 2022 election campaign, who they claim also promised to help the family if the party got into power.

'They gave us these big red shirts to wear, they told us that if you helped Labor that something would happen,' Atena recalled

The family will be forced to close their kebab shop if they're stripped of their working rights

The family's plight sparked an angry outburst from ACA host Ally Langdon at the end of the segment.

'Aren't these the type of hardworking people we want in our country?' she said. 'What's happening to this family is a disgrace.

'They feel they were strung along, used and forgotten once Labor won the election.

'We want to know if there's a brave MP who who stand up for this family because the immigration minister is gutless!.'

The Department of Home Affairs refused to comment on individual cases due to privacy issues, said a spokesman.

Atena (left) and her mum Fatemeh (right) claim the Labor politicians vowed to help the family if they were elected to power at the 2022 election. Both of them have worked at Bunnings

'Departmental staff aim to ensure that visa application are finalised as quickly as possible, and support individuals through the process with various assistance services,' the spokesman told Daily Mail Australia.

'Everyones situation is different, and the Department of Home Affairs strongly recommends people consider their own circumstances when applying for the visa that best suits them.

'There is a wide range of visa options across Australias migration and visa programs that provide avenues for people to apply for family, skilled, humanitarian and temporary stay in Australia.'

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Mr Giles for comment.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has been criticized for refusing to be completely transparent on where hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars have gotten to the city's homeless shelters amid a migrant crisis.

The Windy City has struggled to care for more than 34,000 asylum-seekers bussed in from the border by Texas Governor Greg Abbott over the past 18 months.

It has spent $300 million on the crisis and has been fighting with the state of Illinois about where to build more shelters and is currently fighting a measles outbreak at one of the shelters.

The state attempted to quell fears on how taxpayer money would be spent on the crisis by launching a page on the state comptroller's website that would track it.

However, the city has refused to reveal where all of the funds are going, with the Democrat Johnson being evasive when questioned by the press.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has been criticized for refusing to be completely transparent on where hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars have gotten to the city's homeless shelters amid a migrant crisis

The city has only provided full transparency on funding for a third of the city's 27 shelters.

However, the ones that they did are getting as much as $344,000 a week in taxpayer cash, which is the price tag for The Inn in Chicago. It has 1,500 beds. That would make out to $17 million over the course of a year.

Other shelters like the site in the city's Pilsen neighborhood are getting $280,000 a week, with the Ogden shelter getting $150,000 a week. These shelters are servicing 2,000 and 1,000 migrants, respectively and pocketing millions over the last three months.

The Pilsen shelter is notable for an outbreak of measles that is now at 14 cases, with the city forced to mandate vaccinations, according to WTTW.

What's caused even more outrage is the city allegedly hiding where those funds are going by using out-of-state private companies to staff the shelters, NBC Chicago reported.

City records indicate that $206 million has gone to Favorite Health Care standing, a Kansas-based company whose high cost has angered Chicago officials.

A Kentucky-based company called Equitable Social Solutions has received $45 million to identify where shelters are located.

Alderman Andre Vasquez, the chairman of the city council's migrant committee, is angry that the city won't reveal what those companies have made in profits.

The Windy City has struggled to care for more than 34,000 asylum-seekers bussed in from the border by Texas Governor Greg Abbott over the past 18 months

The Inn in Chicago is serving as a shelter with 1,500 beds. They are reportedly making 344,000 a week in taxpayer cash

Chicago's South Ogden Avenue shelter is getting $150,000 a week to hold 1,000 migrants

The Pilsen shelter is notable for an outbreak of measles that is now at 14 cases, with the city forced to mandate vaccinations

'I think it's a bit more translucent than transparent. You get some information but not the full picture,' Vazquez said.

None of the companies or landlords involved have commented on the situation.

'So I think something that we've been looking at is how to really get more mandated reporting from the government as they're making decisions, because our constituents are asking us those very questions,' Vazquez added.

At least one landlord offered his building as a shelter and was set to meet with city officials before they were told not to come on their way to the meeting.

But when pressed on providing further transparency, Johnson dodged the question.

'Thank you for that question,' Johnson said. 'Again, we are meeting you right where you are.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to Mayor Johnson's office 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

Venezuelan migrants are bused into Chicago by Texas Governor Greg Abbott this past December

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

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.

Shelters in converted warehouses in Chicago have been filled to the brim with new arrivals living in poor conditions, leading to the city commandeering other venues.

Johnson has insisted the city would not open any more migrant shelters, and called on Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to make good on promises to build its own ones.

Mayor Johnson himself says the huge influx of migrants is unsustainable, but he can't turn them away because Chicago is a 'sanctuary city'.

He blamed both the Biden Administration and Texas for his city struggling to care for the about 15,000 asylum-seekers crammed into 28 shelters across the city.

Governor Abbott has sent more than 25,300 migrants to Chicago since August 2022, on buses.

Chicago tried to have them arrive at designated locations during business hours and impounding buses that didn't follow these rules.

However, bus companies responded by dropping off migrants as far as 60 miles from Chicago, and Abbott started sending them on charter flights.

Conditions in Chicago's migrant shelters have been under a microscope since five-year-old boy Jean Carlo Martinez Rivero died on December 17.

Johnson maintained there was 'no evidence the condition of the shelter caused the death of this young boy'.

Volunteers who try to help the asylum-seekers as best they can argue differently, submitting lists of concerns to city officials months before Jean's death.

Photos and videos inside the shelter where he died showed 2,300 migrants huddled together in freezing temperatures under a leaking roof.

One video showed a young boy with what appeared to be a bandage on his head lying on a thin fold-out bed, distracting himself with a tablet.

Another shows a different child coughing and crying as they had their temperature taken and were examined by volunteers.

A third video showed water leaking from the roof and pooling on one of the beds.
Former homicide detective Charlie Bezzina has lashed out at Victoria Police over its handling of the search for Samantha Murphy, blasting a widely publicised search as a PR stunt.

Wednesday marks 52 days since the 51-year-old vanished after she left her East Ballarat home to go for a run in Woowookrung Regional Park at 7am on February 4 in a cold case that has shocked the nation.

No trace of the mother-of-three has been found, despite Patrick Orren Stephenson, 22, being charged with her murder.

One week ago, search crews returned to the Buninyong bush, south of Ballarat, in what was the force's first publicly advertised search since February 22. Images from the search captured cadaver dogs, cops on motorbikes and dozens of officers on foot preparing to scour the terrain.

Despite the vast resources the search was short-lived, with police abandoning efforts at 2.30pm after just eight hours.

Mr Bezzina told Daily Mail Australia he had expected more from investigators and described it as a 'show pony' search.

'There were no line searches and they didn't even get the SES involved. From the outside looking in, you might think it was just a PR stunt,' he said.

'The search looked uncoordinated - it didn't make sense.'

Former homicide detective Charlie Bezzina (pictured) has lashed Victoria Police for launching a 'show pony' search for missing mother-of-three Samantha Murphy

READ MORE: Police bring in specialised dogs in search for Samantha Murphy Advertisement

The former detective was surprised that the police decided to halt the search at the new site so soon.

He claimed that their decision to stop the search hours later had 'backfired on them' - with pressure now mounting for officers to bring closure to the Murphy family.

A Victoria Police spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia last week's effort was 'a real search conducted as part of a significant investigation'.

On Thursday - a day after the publicised search - Victoria Police Commissioner Shane Patton revealed on Melbourne radio investigators were searching again elsewhere.

While the location of that search was not disclosed, it was revealed Australian Federal Police technology detection dogs had been brought into the scrub.

The commissioner's comment led police to admit it had been carrying out 'small scale searches' as part of its investigation for weeks.

'The whole investigation has been bizarre,' Mr Bezzina said. 'To have the chief police commissioner getting involved and contradicting investigators is highly unusual.'

Police on Tuesday admitted there were no new developments on locating Ms Murphy's body, but the investigation was ongoing.

Ms Murphy, 51, was last seen leaving her East Ballarat home to go for a jog on February 4

Victoria Police have been criticised for only spending eight hours at a new search area

READ MORE: Cops' warning to locals about new search for Samantha Murphy Advertisement

Stephenson will remain behind bars until his next court appearance in August and Mr Bezzina said the murder proceedings would continue to court even if investigators never find Ms Murphy's body.

'It might diminish the case a bit and there'll be no cause of death,' he said.

'But we've had convictions without bodies before. It will be based on circumstances, that she went running, never returned and this is out of character.'

Mr Bezzina said if no body was found, it eliminated the possibility of finding evidence, such as DNA, that could link the alleged killer to her body.

'The priority for police is locating the body - first so it can be returned to her family, then for causation, then for evidence,' he explained.

Investigators launched a fresh search at the Buningyong Bushland Reserve last Wednesday

Police on motorbikes (pictured) were part of fresh - and shortlived - search efforts last week

The latest police searches were not even disclosed to Ms Murphy's immediate family.

Daily Mail Australia revealed last week how both Ms Murphy's husband Mick and her father John Robson were oblivious to the searches in their own neighbourhood.

Mr Murphy was spotted on a desperately lonely drive through bushland as he tried to find the site police were searching for his wife's body last Wednesday.

Mr Robson later said both he and his son-in-law were being excluded from any developments in the investigation.

'We are in the dark mate. We haven't a clue what is going on. Mick is in the same boat as us,' he said.

Mr Robson said he and his wife were no closer to achieving the closure they so desperately needed.

'They have told us nothing,' he said.
The ABC has apologised to Dick Smith after the outraged businessman wrote to it demanding corrections to a fact check report on renewable energy and nuclear power he said was 'full of lies'.

Mr Smith said the report, which was written by RMIT (Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology) ABC Fact Check stated that: 'Businessman Dick Smith has thrown his support behind calls to introduce nuclear generated power to Australia, rejecting renewable-led electricity generation in the process.'

He wrote to ABC's managing director David Anderson to say that this was not true, leading to a backflip and apology from the national broadcaster within hours.

'It's good that they've given an apology,' Mr Smith told 2GB's Ben Fordham on Wednesday morning.

'(But) we're not going to get any leadership out of ... the ABC about the necessity to move to nuclear as soon as possible for our future generations.'

The ABC has apologised to Dick Smith (pictured with his wife Pip) after the outraged businessman wrote to it demanding corrections to a fact check report

READ MORE: The five places where Peter Dutton wants to build 'large scale' nuclear reactors in Australia Pictured is a meme targeting Sunshine Coast Liberal frontbencher Ted O'Brien Advertisement

The ABC published its apology online at 8.03pm on Tuesday, posting: 'The first version of this article was based on the inference that Mr Smith's interview was only referring to electricity grids.

'After publication Mr Smith clarified that he was referring to full energy mix. The article has been updated to reflect that and to add information on the full energy mixes of four countries whose grids are 100 per cent renewable.'

It added that, 'The article also previously incorrectly stated that Mr Smith had rejected renewable-led electricity generation; this has been amended and the ABC apologises to Mr Smith for the error.'

A still angry Mr Smith said on Wednesday morning that 'one of their main cases was that I was opposed to renewables, which is just simply not the truth'.

He claimed that one of the fact checkers called him and said they had done a fact check on something said by Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen.

'Chris Bowen, who's against nuclear ... had said that it would take 19 years to get nuclear up. And so the ABC did a fact check and said, 'That's not true. It only takes about 8.8 years.'

'In other words, they were showing something positive about nuclear. And this young fact checker at the ABC said they were just completely attacked,' Mr Smith said.

'And I can imagine that the left would have gone berserk because he was game enough to say something positive about nuclear. So it just shows you the problems there (in the ABC).'

A spokeswoman for Chris Bowen told Daily Mail Australia that 'Minister Bowen is not privy to a conversation that Dick Smith is supposed to have had with the ABC.'

Mr Smith said he was 'pro-renewables', but added 'don't let anyone tell you that solar and wind are cheaper. They're not.

'If you actually do it genuinely, they are about twice the price.'

Poll Would you live near a large scale nuclear reactor? Australia should go fully renewable Yes, it's 2024 and it's safe No, I don't trust them What's wrong with coal? Would you live near a large scale nuclear reactor? Australia should go fully renewable 142 votes

Yes, it's 2024 and it's safe 1207 votes

No, I don't trust them 330 votes

What's wrong with coal? 303 votes Now share your opinion





He called for a nuclear power station to be set up in an existing coal-powered electricity plant.

'Instead of using coal, you could use uranium to boil the water (to generate power) like they do in France and have been for 50 years,' he said.

The businessman said going for 100 per cent renewables would mean 'the complete destruction of the environment'.

'(We would) need 20 pumped hydro dams up and down the east coast, so the beautiful valleys will be flooded with water.

'And then down at the lower level where people live, they'll have to pull down the houses and flood out the low level area for pumped hydro,' he claimed.

'You can have that alternative, or you can have humming away at the site of the coal power station, a nuclear power station.'

Businessman Dick Smith supports Australia moving to nuclear power. An aerial view of the Temelin nuclear power plant in the Czech Republic is pictured

Mr Smith said the fact that ABC had to apologise to him shows 'that all of my friends in the left - and the ABC's pretty left - believe they have to be against nuclear'.

'There's no rational thinking in it, and that's going to make it really difficult for our young people who we're told are going to suffer from the climate change.

'That's a real pity.'

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the ABC for comment.
A string of NYC TikTokkers have claimed they have also been punched in the face while roaming the streets of Manhattan in the wake of a viral video.

Social media influencer Halley Kate posted a clip after she was struck in broad daylight while walking around New York City.

Since the shocking confession video was uploaded online on Monday morning, a slew of others have now echoed her claims to say they have previously been victims of random violence on Manhattan's streets.

TikTok personality Mikayla Toninato says she got punched in the face when she was walking home from class, in a video that has gained 7.4 million views.

Toninato said she was looking at her phone and texting as a man came out of nowhere and hit her in the face.

Social media influencer Halley Kate posted a video claiming she was punched in the face in broad daylight while walking the streets of New York City

In a video that has gained 7.4 million views, TikTokker Mikayla Toninato revealed that she got punched in the face when she was walking home from class

@mikaylatoninato @halley i quite literally feel your pain this was so insane  original sound - mikayla

Another TikTokker shared a video last week, on March 17, telling users that she had been randomly punched in New York City as well. 'I literally just got punched by some man on the sidewalk,' Olivia Brand said in her video - which has almost four million views

Selena Pikanab, who has over a million followers on the social media app, captioned her video 'Getting punched in NYC was not on my agenda today. This happened to me at around 1 pm and I had work immediately after'

Another user, @malous228, revealed that she had been hit on Saturday, March 23 in Times Square when she walking out of the subway station

'I don't know if this is a thing that's going around,' Toninato said - referencing Halley Kate's similar story.

She warned her followers to not walk around on their phones and be 'super aware' of their surroundings.

Another person shared a video last week, on March 17, telling users that she had been randomly punched in New York City as well.

'I literally just got punched by some man on the sidewalk,' Olivia Brand said in her video - which has almost four million views.

'He goes "sorry" and then punches me in the head,' she said.

Yet another popular TikTok star uploaded a video on Monday, saying that she had also been punched in NYC.

Selena Pikanab, who has over a million followers on the social media app, captioned her video 'Getting punched in NYC was not on my agenda today. This happened to me at around 1 pm and I had work immediately after.'

On Tuesday morning, a user on TikTok uploaded a video saying that she had also been punched in the head.

The user, @malous228, revealed that she had been hit on Saturday, March 23 in Times Square when she walking out of the subway station.

She said a random man came up and punched her in the head. The TikTokker said she's still sore and that it was a 'traumatic experience'.

She also managed to get a video of the alleged attacker after he had chased her.

NYPD confirmed with DailyMail.com that the Halley Kate filed a complaint with the police following the ordeal

Officers confirmed in an email that the incident occurred while Kate, 23, 'was walking in the vicinity of West 16 Street and 7 Avenue, when an unknown individual hit her in the head'

User flooded to the comments to voice their concern on the staggering number of attacks being reported.

'Just confirmed you're the fourth video I've seen about this in the last 12 hours,' a viewer commented on Pikanab's video.

'I just saw Halleys video, then Olivias and now yours all in a row. This is scary,' another said.

'WHAT IS HAPPENING IN NYC,' a user commented.

'Why are we walking and not CALLING THE POLICE!!??' another commented on Toninato's video.

NYPD confirmed with DailyMail.com that the Halley Kate filed a complaint with the police following the ordeal.

Officers confirmed the incident occurred while Kate 'was walking in the vicinity of West 16 Street and 7 Avenue, when an unknown individual hit her in the head.'

'The victim fell to the ground and suffered injuries to the left side of her face [and] was treated at a local medical facility.'

Police said that there have been no arrests and the investigation remains ongoing.

In an emotional video that has garnered more than 27 million views, Kate recorded herself moments after being punched in the face.

'You guys, I was literally just walking, and a man came up and punched me in the face,' Kate said in the video with tears streaming down her face.

'Oh my god, it was so bad, I can't even talk.'

The influencer, who has over one million followers on TikTok, said she lost consciousness and fell to the floor after the assault.

Kate posted a follow up video from the safety of her apartment, revealing what she described as a 'devil horn'-looking bump on the left side of her forehead.

'Yeah, I'm going to the hospital, oh my god, it looks like a f**king devil horn,' she said, having just noticed the bump starting to form while filming.

'The victim fell to the ground and suffered injuries to the left side of her face [and] was treated at a local medical facility,' per the email

The influencer, who has over one million followers on TikTok, said she lost consciousness and fell to the floor after the assault

The content creator said the man, who has yet to be identified, had struck her while she was looking down at her phone to answer an email.

'I literally passed out, so I don't really remember. But I guess he was really mad that my head was down - he was walking a dog, so he took it upon himself to attack me and let me know to be conscious of my surroundings,' Kate said.

After having regained consciousness, Kate said she woke up to the man screaming at her.

The victim posted another TikTok in which she is icing her head with the caption, 'when you were supposed to record a podcast but now you're icing your head with a Trader Joe's acai packet waiting for the police to come.'

Kate, who has over 1 million followers on TikTok, said she lost consciousness and fell to the floor after the assault

Kate posted a follow up video from the safety of her apartment, revealing what she described as a 'devil horn'-looking bump on the left side of her forehead

The influencer thanked her followers for their expressions of concern, and confirmed with the doctor that she would be okay but to look for symptoms such as vomiting or vision loss.

Pictured: A street view of West 16th Street and 7th Ave, where the incident occurred

In a fourth video, Kate thanked her followers for their expressions of concern, and confirmed with the doctor that she would be okay but to look for symptoms such as vomiting or vision loss.

'I am going to be okay, I think I'm going to make a speedy recovery,' she said, saying she was experiencing a severe migraine.

As Kate's video gained traction, so did other stories from users claiming they have also been punched in the face by a male stranger, sparking outrage online about public safety in NYC.

'I have lived here for six years and I haven't had anything even remotely similar to what happened to me yesterday,' she said.

'While its obviously really upsetting and disgusting that women have to deal with shit like this, I personally am not gonna revolve my life around that one incident and be afraid to walk around the streets, go to restaurants - live my life.

'I do think this serves as a good wake up call to be a little bit more aware of my surroundings, and that's not just in New York City, literally anywhere in the world.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to Kate for comment.
Sunrise hosts Nat Barr and Matt Shirvington have grilled Queensland Premier Steven Miles on why it took him so long to appear on their program to address a surge in youth crime in the Sunshine State.

Barr said viewers had been wanting answers over the youth crime epidemic, with some saying their homes and cars have been broken into.

Tensions have only escalated following the tragic death of grandmother Vyleen White, 70, who was allegedly stabbed by a teenager in an Aldi car park at Redbank Plains Town Square on February 3.

'When you took on the top job in December, you said youth crime was unacceptably high,' Barr said on Wednesday morning.

'(Our viewers) feel intimidated, scared. Some have lost loved ones. Why aren't things getting better?'

Mr Miles said he'd been hearing the same thing from Queenslanders and announced there'd be a new police crackdown in the state.

Sunrise hosts Nat Barr and Matt Shirvington have grilled Queensland Premier Steven Miles on why it took him so long to appear on their program to address a surge in youth crime in the Sunshine State

More officers will be put on the ground in crime hotspots as part of the new police taskforce Operation Whiskey Legion.

Shirvo said while a new police operation was a step forward, he demanded to know why Mr Miles only agreed to come on for an interview now.

'We have been asking you and your team to come on since the sixth of February,' the breakfast program host said.

'We know that the death of Vyleen White in Ipswich particularly captured not just the attention of that community, but the whole of Australia.

'Why did it take so long for you to come and see us?'

Mr Miles attempted to brush off the question, saying he did media most days but the role of premier was 'obviously a busy job'.

'I'll come on whenever I'm able to but there will be times when I can't, when there is other work to do,' he said.

Shirvo continued to pester the premier and said Sunrise had a 'huge viewership' in Queensland, adding it was 'important' he communicate with residents there.

'Of course and that's why I'm here with you today and I will happily come on the program whenever I can but being premier of a big state like Queensland is a very busy job and some days I just won't be able to come on,' Mr Miles responded.

Vyleen White (pictured) died after she was allegedly stabbed at an underground shopping entre carpark in Redbank Plains Town Square in Brisbane's south-west in February

It comes after Labor suffered a devastating blow in by-elections earlier this month.

LNP candidate Darren Zanow claimed the seat of Ipswich West after his Labor opponent Wendy Bourne suffered a 15.2 per cent swing against her.

Following the results, Mr Miles said his government needed to do better just seven months out from the October 26 general election.

'We will be listening to voters and we will now redouble our efforts to deliver on those issues,' he said.

'It's an admission we need to do better and it's an acknowledgment that that's what we've started to do, be much more focused on those immediate concerns - cost of living, community safety, health and housing.

Queensland Premier Steven Miles (pictured) said his government needs to do better after voters turned on Labor at two byelections earlier this month

'We've made big steps on some of them but there is clearly more for us to do, especially on cost of living and community safety.'

Shirvo said if Labor saw similar swings in October, Mr Miles' government would 'pretty much be gone'.

'By-elections are hard for governments,' the premier said.

'I'm a new premier, I've only been in the job for three months.

'The message I heard from Ipswich and Inala locals was that they wanted us to do more to keep their community safe, to do more to address cost of living to do more and availability of housing and to deliver better healthcare and that's absolutely my focus.

'I'm just going to keep working hard to address those issues every day between now and October and at the end of the day, Queenslanders will make their decision then.'
A beloved TV news presenter has shared her battle with a late-stage, aggressive and rare form of cancer after discovering a 'little lump' while showering.

Michelle Aleksandrovics Lovegrove was diagnosed with Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma - a fast-growing blood cancer which has a five-year survival rate of 33 per cent.

The former news presenter has shared her battle with cancer in a series of videos posted on Monday to her YouTube channel 'Changing Life with Lymphoma'.

Ms Lovegrove explained she spotted the lump on the right-hand side of her groin while showering but 'promptly forgot about it'.

Ngarrindjeri Latvian woman Michelle Aleksandrovics Lovegrove (pictured) said she noticed a 'little lump' on her groan area which grew four times the size in just five days

'It didn't hurt, it moved around, there was no swelling and it wasn't red,' Ms Lovegrove said.

'I thought "this is weird" and I thought it was a little cyst and I went "I'll keep an eye on that" and promptly forgot about it.'

But the lump then suddenly grew four times its size in just five days.

When she then found another lump on the left side of her body, Ms Lovegrove immediately scheduled an appointment with her GP.

She admitted she 'got really worried' but still did not believe the lump was cancer and simply thought it was the symptom of a hernia.

Ms Lovegrove also dismissed other symptoms including bedsheet-drenching night sweats - which she believed was caused by menopause.

'I had other definable signs such as incredible drenching night sweats - to be honest I put down to menopause - crushing fatigue, which I put down to other stuff and then later incredible itching,' Ms Lovegrove said.

Her doctor immediately booked her in for an ultrasound, CT scan and a core biopsy to determine the cause of her lumps.

After three core biopsies, Ms Lovegrove was diagnosed with stage 4B Non-Hodgkin's T-Cell Lymphoma and was quickly put on chemotherapy treatment.

The former radio and television presenter was diagnosed with stage 4B Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma - a fast-growing blood cancer which has a five-year survival rate of 33 per cent

Ms Lovegrove explained her treatment includes six rounds of 'pretty aggressive chemo and a lot of other meds'.

Because the Lymphoma is 'stubborn' and has an 80 per cent relapse rate within the first 12 months, she said she will also be undergoing more chemotherapy along with a stem cell or bone marrow transplant.

Ms Lovegrove urged others to seek medical attention if they notice anything wrong with their body, even if it is 'as simple as a little lump'.

'All I want to say is that it was as simple as a little lump... I am so glad I went to the doctor,' Ms Lovegrove said.

'So if there is anything wrong, you are your best advocate. You know your body the best. Get it seen to your satisfaction because no one is going to look after you like you will.'

In another video shared to her YouTube channel, Ms Lovegrove recorded the moment her friend shaved her hair to a buzz cut.

'Like many other women I don't wish to see hair all over my pillow. I don't wish to be pulling out handfuls of hair,' Ms Lovegrove said.

Ms Lovegrove is documenting her cancer battle on her YouTube channel. In one video, she shares the moment her friend shaves her hair (pictured)

Friend and former colleague SBS Editorial Operations Manager for News and Current Affairs Dr Florencia Isabel Melgar Hourcade set up a GoFundMe for Ms Lovegrove.

'Lets get behind an extraordinary woman!' Dr Hourcade wrote.

'Michelle is a proud Ngarrindjeri Australian woman, a loving mum and aunty, a respected journalist and broadcaster, and a loyal friend to many.

'Her life has been a testament to her resilience and commitment to helping others tell their unique stories to the country.

'Michelles personal story is now about the toughest battle of her life, and she needs your help!'

Dr Hourcade explained the funds will go towards any expenses related to Ms Lovegrove's medical treatment and recovery.

At the time of writing, the fund has received 31 donations totalling $4,325 and aims to raise $30,000.

Ms Lovegrove graced Australia's commercial television and radio across three states and worked as a national broadcaster at ABC News Radio, news presenter at NITV and as the executive producer of Living Black Radio at SBS for 10 years.

She currently serves as the Senior Communications Officer at the New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council.
Gloria Camacho Villanueva, 36, was arrested on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon (F/2) after allegedly shooting a woman in the head the night before. Courtesy/Webb County Sheriff's Office Shown is the home at 3120 Saltillo St. in south Laredo. Courtesy/Google Maps

A suspect in a south Laredo shooting who allegedly shot a woman in the head Tuesday night was identified Wednesday by the Laredo Police Department.

The incident was first reported by LPD just before 11 p.m. Tuesday. There was a shooting at 3120 Saltillo St., and a female victim was headed to the hospital.

On Wednesday morning, the Laredo Fire Department updated that it was dispatched for a 35-year-old female victim with a gunshot wound to the head. LFD said the woman was unconscious but was breathing and had a pulse. She was treated and transported to LMC in critical condition.

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LPD updated on Wednesday that investigators have identified the suspect in the shooting as 36-year-old Gloria Camacho Villanueva. A warrant has been obtained for her arrest charging her with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon (F/2).

Camacho was arrested Wednesday afternoon. She was served with a warrant with a $150,000 bond which was signed by 111th Judicial District of Texas Judge Monica Z. Notzon.

The victim remains in critical condition after being airlifted to a hospital in San Antonio.
At the height of the pandemic, millions stood on their doorsteps to applaud doctors, nurses and other NHS staff who put themselves in harm's way on the frontline.

Yet while admiring the dedication of those health professionals, it is possible to acknowledge the serious failings of the organisation that employs them.

Public satisfaction with the NHS has plunged to its lowest ever level at just 24 per cent, says a survey. But is it any wonder?

Contrary to the myth that the health service offers unparalleled care, the grim truth is that many patients aren't getting the service they need. Some 6.3 million languish on waiting lists. Face-to-face GP appointments are rarer than hens' teeth. How many people will needlessly die?

At the height of the pandemic, millions stood on their doorsteps to applaud doctors, nurses and other NHS staff who put themselves in harm's way on the frontline (Pictured: Staff of the Leeds General Infirmary clap in July 2020)

Public satisfaction with the NHS has plunged to its lowest ever level at just 24 per cent, says a survey. But is it any wonder?

However much the Left moans, this is not about funding. The Tories are shovelling record sums into the behemoth.

Strikes by consultants and junior doctors, many already on enviable pay-and-pension deals, have exacerbated the problems facing patients. On top of that, too much money and time is wasted on bloated bureaucracy, creaking IT systems and wokery.

Despite growing dissatisfaction with the NHS, the public remain stubbornly wedded to its founding principles.

Yet without radical reform, they will never get the five-star service they demand.

A serious debate is needed on how the health service is funded beyond general taxation, and whether more private provision and competition can be introduced.

Patients are surely less concerned about how they get their treatment, as long as it is timely, of a high standard  and free.

Blind on border farce

After becoming embroiled in controversy, most public organisations accept that things should have been handled better and, importantly, that they will be in future.

The Home Office, by contrast, seems blind to even its most glaring failures.

Take yesterday. The Border Force's boss insisted security was his 'number one priority'. That was why his officers carried out 'robust checks' on arrivals to Britain.

After becoming embroiled in controversy, most public organisations accept that things should have been handled better and, importantly, that they will be in future. The Home Office, by contrast, seems blind to even its most glaring failures (File Image)

Thanks to the watchdog blowing the whistle to the Mail, we know that checks were so lax that countless criminals, illegal immigrants or extremists may have entered the country on private and chartered jets without passport checks or other scrutiny. For exposing this scandal, he was abruptly sacked by Home Secretary James Cleverly (pictured)

Yet a report by David Neal, the independent borders inspector, into security at London City airport was so heavily redacted that it pointed to a Home Office cover up.

Thanks to the watchdog blowing the whistle to the Mail, we know that checks were so lax that countless criminals, illegal immigrants or extremists may have entered the country on private and chartered jets without passport checks or other scrutiny.

For exposing this scandal, he was abruptly sacked by Home Secretary James Cleverly.

Today, Mr Neal says the same failings may be replicated at other airports, exposing Britain's soft underbelly.

The whole point of appointing a borders inspector is that they highlight things that are wrong, yet Mr Cleverly will not replace Mr Neal for several months.

His priority seems to be less national security and more saving face.

A risk to our children

It is hugely concerning that the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health is opposing new trans guidelines for schools.

The organisation says refusing to let children as young as four identify as the opposite sex will 'distress' them. Nor should parents be told if their son or daughter questions their gender, it adds.

But this risks setting youngsters on a pathway to irreversible procedures. The college should have children's best interests at heart. Captured by pernicious trans ideology, it instead endangers them.
Tourists from at least five countries could be banned from travelling to Australia if Labor's tough new proposed migration laws pass Parliament.

The Albanese Government is rushing new legislation through Parliament this week in an attempt to avoid another disastrous ruling from the High Court - after more than 140 asylum seekers, including murderers and rapists, were released into the community in the NZYQ case last November.

The proposed laws would give the Immigration Minister the power to single out countries that do not cooperate with Australia's attempts to deport people back to their country of origin.

That could result in citizens of Iran, Iraq, Zimbabwe, Russia and South Sudan being banned from travelling to Australia altogether, even for a holiday - although some exceptions would apply.

The government fears that an upcoming High Court hearing, set down for April 17, could lead to the court expanding further on its controversial NZYQ decision, leading to up to 170 further detainees walking free.

Tourists from at least five countries could be banned from travelling to Australia if Labor's tough new proposed migration laws pass Parliament. It's possible more would follow

In an attempt to avoid another disaster ahead of a High Court immigration case next month, Labor is rushing new legislation through parliament during the last sitting week before the hearing. Above is Immigration Minister Andrew Giles

The new High Court case relates to an Iranian citizen known as ASF17, who refuses to go back to Iran because as a bisexual man he could face the death penalty.

If he is successful in court, more detainees who refused to cooperate with their deportations would walk free with him.

Labor's proposed laws would also introduce a jail sentence of up to five years for failed asylum seekers who refuse to cooperate with their deportation.

But the bill will not pass without a fight, with the Coalition teaming up with the Greens in the Senate on Wednesday morning to refer the proposal to a formal Senate inquiry.

This could take months.

Greens Senator David Shoebridge proposed the inquiry report back in June, but Coalition Home Affairs spokesperson James Paterson said earlier in the day they intend to have a report finalised before parliament returns in mid-May.

Mr Paterson said if the government could prove the urgent need for the passage of this legislation, the Coalition would be prepared to return to parliament in April to reconsider the matter.

'In the absence of a genuine, demonstrable urgent need... our intention is for it to go through due process,' Mr Paterson said.

Embattled Immigration Minister Andrew Giles said of the proposal: 'What we're doing with this piece of legislation, this important piece of legislation, is to fill a very significant loophole.

'[It is] a loophole that a small cohort of people who have no basis upon which to remain in Australia who are refusing to co-operate with efforts to effect their removal.

'Importantly... these people are not refugees.'

The Greens and the crossbench have expressed concerns about the proposed laws, meaning the government is forced to rely upon the Coalition for support.

A refugee expert, Sanmati Verma of the Human Rights Law Centre, told the Australian Financial Review the legislation would mean all visas from nationals of a country, including tourist visas, could be deemed invalid.

'It is the Labor governments version of Trumps travel ban, with modest exceptions,' Ms Verma said.

Rush to pass the law hits a snag

The legislation sailed through the House of Representatives on Tuesday, but was subjected to a Senate grilling on Wednesday night.

The Coalition has now sided with the Greens in delaying this bill to ensure it undergoes 'proper due process'.

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Opposition Immigration spokesman Dan Tehan told Radio National on Wednesday morning there will be 'further discussions' before making a decision.

'There were a few things out of the hearing that still have left us with more questions that we would like answered.

'And once again, we are seeing a completely botched process by the government. The question was asked last night and very clearly was, what is the rush? What is the need for these laws to be passed through the Senate today? We couldnt get a clear answer on that.

'It is quite... extraordinary that youve got a major piece of legislation like this. And that we havent heard from the Minister for Immigration or the Minister for Home Affairs, neither of them have fronted.'

While the Greens and Coalition have teamed up to torpedo the government's plans, they've done so for starkly different reasons.

The Coalition's primary concern is 'unintended consequences' of the bill - primarily that it could 'inadvertenty push people to get back on the boats' and cause more headaches down the track.

But the Greens argue it's draconian. Mr Shoebridge said: 'This is about Labor, trying to outflank the Coalition and move to the right of the Coalition in a bill that they seem to have just made up in some long late night drinking session and then brought to the parliament.'

A leaked explanatory memorandum of the bill claimed changes were needed to 'strengthen the integrity of the migration system' by making it easier for immigrants to be deported.

The Government's Home Affairs minister Clare O'Neil this month was under fire after it was revealed she relied on verbal advice only for the previous High Court ruling

Opposition Home Affairs spokesman James Paterson claimed it was 'rushed patch-up job' to get through the new legislation

The government has been drafting legislation since Friday.

'Non-co-operation with removal processes demonstrates a disregard for Australian laws,' the memorandum reads.

Opposition home affairs spokesman James Paterson said the Coalition received little more than an hour's notice the Commonwealth intended to introduce the legislation to parliament on Tuesday.

This gives them about 36 hours to pass the legislation if it is to be done before the end of the sitting week - the last before the High Court hearing.

'Perhaps if it was in response to a genuine and urgent crisis that would be OK but this is an extraordinary demand to put on parliament, to put on all of us,' Senator Paterson said.

Greens leader Adam Bandt slammed the government's approach as extraordinary.

'Nothing was put forward that justifies us losing the usual rights that everyone in this parliament has to consider such important legislation,' he said.

Crossbench Warringah MP Zali Steggall said she was 'deeply disappointed' Labor was trying to rush through laws without giving enough time to seriously consider the implications.

'Shame, shame on every member of government for supporting ... something that is deeply, deeply undemocratic,' she said.
Two mothers who took the NHS to court after claiming their 'vulnerable' teenage daughters were being fast-tracked to 'irreversible' gender-change treatment have had their case paused by a High Court judge.

Anna Castle, 36, and a second mother who cannot be named for legal reasons, are fearful their daughters are being allowed to make 'life-changing decisions' without any proper exploration of how their mental conditions are influencing the desire to transition.

They want permission to pursue a challenge against NHS England over allegedly 'unsafe and discriminatory' gender services practice including how service guidance is applied to 17-year-olds and its impact on those with certain conditions.

Lawyers for the women claim that overlapping care specifications for this age group have a 'stark inconsistency' and could have a 'disproportionate impact' on young people with ADHD, autism or Asperger's.

NHS England says their case should be dismissed, arguing that it was 'academic' amid ongoing and planned reviews of gender identity services and policy.

Anna Castle (pictured) and a second mother are fearful their daughters are being allowed to make 'life-changing decisions' without any proper exploration of their mental conditions

Ms Castle arrives at the High Court in London where a judge paused their case against NHS England

At a hearing on Tuesday, a judge paused the claims until May 23 to give time for the potential publication of findings from an independent review of gender identity services for children and young people.

Mr Justice Swift said that the review, led by Dr Hilary Cass, is due to release its final report next month and concluded that its contents could help 'clarify' arguments in the legal challenges.

Jeremy Hyam KC, representing the two mothers, said in written arguments for the hearing in London that there was 'widely recognised concern about the high proportion of individuals presenting with gender dysphoria' who have other conditions like autism and ADHD.

He told the court that the women's case centred on differences between documents setting out how gender identity-related care should be provided for children and adults.

The barrister said the June 2023 interim service specification for specialist gender incongruence services for children and young people (ISS) makes a 'standardised comprehensive assessment of co-existing mental health conditions', a mandatory requirement before treatment for 'gender dysphoria' can start.

Two adult service specifications (ASS) from October 2022 and January last year do not make such an assessment mandatory, Mr Hyam said.

He said NHS England had 'recently decided to remove all 17-years-olds from the waiting list of the child and adolescent gender service, covered by the ISS, and invite them instead to consider moving to an adult gender clinic waiting list, covered by the ASS'.

At a hearing on Tuesday, a judge paused the claims until May 23 to give time for the potential publication of findings from an independent review of gender identity services for children and young people

'Children aged 17 may be treated either under the ASS or the ISS and thus receive significantly different approaches to their care,' he said.

'A 17-year-old is prevented from self-referring under the ISS but permitted to do so under the ASS, where they may be offered less or no therapeutic input.'

Mr Hyam told the hearing this meant there were 'unlawful differential levels of protection' that could affect hundreds of individuals who allegedly may not get their conditions properly assessed under the ASS route before progressing with a treatment plan.

He said this was 'not safe' and risks 'irreversible harm'.

In written arguments, he added that 17-year-olds were the largest age group to be referred to five adult clinics in 2019 and that NHS England should be ordered to consider amending the ASS document.

Eleanor Grey KC, representing NHS England, told the court that the overlap in care routes was 'theoretical' as waiting lists meant those young people under the ASS will not reach treatment until they are aged 18.

She said the claims were academic due to Dr Cass's expected report and because NHS England was committed to reviewing the ASS in the coming months, which would be informed by views such as the ones raised in the litigation.

Ms Grey said it was 'factually wrong' to say there was a 'sharp contrast' between the ISS and ASS, adding that 'both specifications are aimed at securing a personalised, holistic and specialised assessment that addresses all the aspects of a patient's history and presentation'.

In written arguments, she said the court case could create an 'undesirable tangle' with the planned consultation on ASS and the court could 'become sucked into considering matters of clinical opinion that are far better considered as part of the review process'.
The Clapham chemical attacker won asylum in spite of his repeated dishonesty, it can be revealed today.

Abdul Ezedi, 35, failed a test on Christianity even though he claimed to be a convert.

The asylum judge who heard the sex offender's appeal to stay in the UK decided he had 'not been honest in several aspects of his account'.

In spite of those concerns, Judge William O'Hanlon allowed Ezedi's appeal on asylum and human rights grounds, saying on balance his religious conversion was genuine. His body was found in the Thames last month, ending a massive police hunt after he attacked a mother and her children with an alkali substance in January.

Court papers released to the Mail raise further questions about Ezedi's claim to have converted to Christianity  with him at one point saying in Home Office documents that the Old Testament was about Jesus Christ.

Clapham chemical attacker Abdul Ezedi is baptised at a church in Jarrow

Ezedi's head is pushed under the water as he is baptised as a Christian

Ezedi walks around Hay's Galleria on the South Bank in London

A character reference for Ezedi that was supplied as part of his asylum application

They also showed the Baptist Church, which supported his claim for asylum, requested he sign a 'safeguarding contract' preventing him from entering the church alone following his 2018 sex assault and exposure conviction.

The documents have only now been released after the Mail led a media fight to uncover the full extent of Ezedi's dodgy claims. And the BBC reported last night that Ezedi was given a Muslim funeral and burial in London at the request of his family and friends.

The released documents show that:

Ezedi sent the asylum and immigration tribunal photos of his baptism and handing out leaflets in a bid to help his claim;

He was supported by a Baptist minister who attended court four times to advocate for asylum seekers;

In an earlier Home Office interview Ezedi could not answer basic questions about Christianity.

First Tier Tribunal Judge O'Hanlon granted Ezedi asylum on his third appeal in November 2020 on the basis he would be at risk of persecution if he was returned to Afghanistan.

The judge conceded Ezedi had been discredited on multiple occasions, but allowed the appeal on the strength of the 'most compelling evidence' from a Baptist Church minister.

The Afghan suspect secured the churches' support despite being a convicted sex attacker. Pictured: In CCTV after the attack

Ezedi hands out Christian leaflets to shoppers in Newcastle. He was twice refused permission to remain in the UK

The extraordinary pictures emerged for the first time yesterday

Reverend Roy Merrin, the now retired minister at Grange Road Baptist Church, in Jarrow, Tyne and Wear, wrote to the tribunal in support of Ezedi. He also told the panel in person in October 2020 he was aware of fraudulent asylum claims but believed Ezedi was honest.

Concerns over dishonesty The judge who heard Abdul Ezedi's asylum appeal voiced concerns over 'honesty' during his judgment. Judge William O'Hanlon found Ezedi was dishonest in 'several aspects of his account'. Ezedi's claims included: He was a Shia Muslim  a judge at another hearing found Ezedi had worshipped as a Sunni Muslim for 'many years';

His brother was shot and killed when the Taliban bombed his home, in Afghanistan  he previously claimed his brother was shot at a mosque;

He was injured in a Taliban grenade blast  a previous hearing was given a GP note saying Ezedi 'had shrapnel injuries', which the judge 'placed very little weight' on. Judge O'Hanlon accepted Ezedi's conversion to Christianity was genuine, despite concerns from the Home Office. Among the Home Office's reasons for refusing Ezedi asylum were: 'You were unable to accurately state what the Old Testament was';

He claimed 'Jesus Christ' featured in the Old Testament. Advertisement

Rev Merrin said 'Abdul has established a good relationship with the other Church members and is always willing to help'. He added: 'Abdul has been ready to share his faith in Christ with non-Christians ... I would support his application to remain] in this country.'

Ezedi was also supported by the Catholic Church in a letter sent from the Dioceses of Hexham and Newcastle Justice and Peace Refugee Project.

In his judgment Judge O'Hanlon criticised Ezedi's repeated deceit but accepted Rev Merrin's evidence that his conversion was genuine. He said: 'It is the case that I find the appellant has not been honest in several aspects of his account referred to herein. I remind myself of the fact that the appellant may not have been honest about certain aspects of his claim does not necessarily mean that he is lying about other matters, in this case his claimed Christian conversion.

'Having considered all the evidence before me in the round, notwithstanding my concerns as to the honesty of the appellant in relation to certain aspects of his account, I find the appellant had been consistent in his evidence with regard to his conversion to Christianity.'

Ezedi said he had converted to Christianity only after his first asylum appeal had been rejected in 2017. He later claimed to have 'forgotten' the detail.

When asked 'What was created on the third day', Ezedi said: 'Good Friday and Easter Sunday and Resurrection day'. The Bible tells how dry land, seas, planets and trees were created by God on the third day.

Mistakes in Ezedi's Home Office interview were later blamed by his legal team on a translator.

Concerns about his honesty were raised after Ezedi claimed to be a Shia Muslim  although a judge at another hearing found Ezedi had worshipped as a Sunni for 'many years'. He also said his brother was shot and killed when the Taliban bombed his home, in Afghanistan. But it was later pointed out he previously claimed he was shot at a mosque.

Photos show the asylum seeker handing out leaflets near the Monument in Newcastle

Reverend Roy Merrin wrote to the tribunal in support of Ezedi and also gave evidence in person to his hearing at the First Tier Tribunal, in October 2020

The safeguarding contract drawn up by the Baptist Church also demonstrated the level of insight the church had into Ezedi's criminality. One section of the seven-point contract banned Ezedi from entering the church in Jarrow 'without one of my male supporters being present', confirming 'I shall not sit alone in the church at any time'.

Last night sources close to Home Secretary James Cleverly said churches had suffered damage to their reputations by initially denying they had contact with Ezedi. One said: 'That reputational risk is only amplified by the fact some who denied knowledge of Ezedi at the time had in fact known of him within their church, and had supported and vouched for him.'

Ezedi arrived in Britain in the back of a lorry in 2016 and had twice been refused asylum by 2018

A reference from a Baptist chapel in the North East, where Ezedi was living, was crucial in persuading an immigration tribunal that he had converted from Islam to Christianity. He is pictured out shopping in Newcastle

A spokesman for the Baptist Union of Great Britain said: 'Baptists Together did not corporately support or sponsor Abdul Ezedi's asylum application. 'A personal letter of support commenting solely on Abdul Ezedi's observed faith journey was written by a retired Baptist minister.

'The safeguarding contract was a separate issue and was agreed between the church and Abdul Ezedi with guidance from local and regional safeguarding leads using our national template document of the time.'

A spokesman for the Catholic Church downplayed its role, saying it wrote a letter for Ezedi 'to assist with support from other agencies' and not as part of an asylum claim.

Rev Merrin said last night: 'I'm sorry I can't help you.'

Additional reporting: Josh White
Andy Middleton, leader of the Apostleship of the Sea, said the crew might not be able to leave their ship until the debris had been cleared

The wreckage comes after part of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed onto the 948-foot-long container

Crew members of the ship that smashed into a Baltimore bridge on Tuesday morning could be stranded on board for two weeks

Crew of the stricken cargo ship that crashed into a Baltimore bridge Tuesday morning could be stuck on board for up to two weeks as authorities scramble to clear the wreckage, DailyMail.com can reveal.

The 948-foot-long container collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge shortly after it left its port at 1:26am Tuesday morning, sparking a desperate search for eight construction workers who were plunged into the water.

Two people were rescued, but officials said the search for the others is now a recovery operation rather than rescue as hope is fading that the six workers will be found alive.

It is thought the ship, a DALI boat operated by Singaporean company Synergy Group, was being crewed by 22 Indian nationals, none of whom are thought to have been seriously hurt in the incident.

But the director of a local mariners' charity said he feared they could be stranded on board for up to two weeks after part of the bridge collapsed onto the back of the vessel.

Andy Middleton, of the Apostleship of the Sea, said the crew would likely not be able to leave their ship until the debris had been cleared.

Crew of the stricken cargo ship that crashed into a Baltimore bridge this morning could be stuck on board for up to two weeks

The 948-foot-long container collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge shortly after it left its port at 1.26am this morning

It is thought the ship, a DALI boat operated by Singaporean company Synergy Group, was being crewed by 22 Indian nationals

None of the crew members are thought to have been seriously hurt in the incident

Middleton had been helping the men prepare for the voyage in the hours before their horror crash and said he has been in constant contact with them since.

He said his main task was now ensuring the seamen had sufficient supplies to last their possible two-week internment.

'I was able to reach out to them this morning and make sure that the crew was safe,' he told DailyMail.com.

'I've been checking in with one crew member throughout the day and he just said that they were 'very busy', probably trying to work out what caused the incident and then once that can be determined may try to repair it.

'My initial message this morning was to make sure they were ok and that if they need anything, we'll make every effort to get it to them.

'They should be fairly-well stocked for food and water because they were embarking on a 28-day voyage.'

Middleton said the men would likely have to remain onboard to monitor the mechanical systems of the ship to ensure it doesn't sink.

He added that they would only be hauled onto dry land if there were signs that the vessel was taking on water.

Middleton said their predicament would last for as long as it took to clear the wreckage of the bridge, which he believes could take anywhere between ten days to a fortnight.

'Right now there is a part of the deck bed sitting on top of the containers at the back of the vessel,' he added. 'I can't imagine they'll move the ship until that has been cleared.'

The director of a local mariners' charity said he feared they could be stranded on board for up to two weeks after part of the bridge collapsed onto the back of the vessel

Andy Middleton, of the Apostleship of the Sea, said the crew would likely not be able to leave their ship until the debris had been cleared

Baltimore City Council Member Phylicia Porter told CNN that one body was reportedly pulled from the water Tuesday afternoon

The speed of the clearance operation is likely to have knock-on ramifications for the rest of the American economy, with Joe Biden stating that 15,000 jobs depended on the port, one of the busiest in the world.

The bridge spans the Patapsco River, at the mouth of Baltimore Harbor.

The President vowed to move 'heaven and earth' to get it reopened.

READ MORE: Six construction workers missing in Baltimore bridge collapse are all presumed dead, Coast Guard says as rescue efforts are called off hours after first body was pulled from freezing water Advertisement

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld said eight people were filling in potholes on the bridge when it collapsed, and two of them were rescued from the water, with one declining medical treatment and the other being taken to the hospital.

Baltimore City Council Member Phylicia Porter told CNN that one body was reportedly pulled from the water Tuesday afternoon.

There were no other details released about the body and police have not released the person's name.

The catastrophic collision has sent shockwaves throughout the state of Maryland, with Governor Wes Moore declaring a state of emergency.

Catholic churches throughout Baltimore held masses to pray for families still awaiting news of loved ones this evening.

Archbishop William Lori, who held a service at Cathedral of Our Mary Queen, said he 'couldn't believe' his eyes when he saw news of the horror crash this morning.

'I thought he must be seeing things,' he said.

'I immediately began to think of the loss of life, the grief, the tragedy. This is really an unprecedented tragedy for our community.'

It is thought the construction workers, employees of Brawner Builders, were from the local Hispanic community.

Archbishop William Lori, who held a service at Cathedral of Our Mary Queen, said he 'couldn't believe' his eyes when he saw news of the horror crash this morning

Catholic churches throughout Baltimore held masses to pray for families still awaiting news of loved ones this evening

Middleton, who had been helping the crew of the DALI ship before their voyage, said earlier that the captain and several crew members shopped at Walmart and checked books from a library during a leisurely stop in Baltimore just hours before they set off on their ill-fated 28-day journey to Sri Lanka.

Several of the 22-strong crew went shopping for supplies with volunteers from Apostleship of the Sea, a Catholic support group which is part of the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

READ MORE: Body is pulled from river after Baltimore bridge collapse during search for six construction workers who plunged into freezing water when monster cargo ship hit support column Advertisement

'Yesterday I took out two people [including the captain] that went to Target, Best Buy and Walmart. They were back at the ship by about 2.30pm or 3pm,' Middleton said.

Just a few hours later, at around 1am on Tuesday morning, the ship departed the harbor.

It collided with the bridge at around 1.30am.Middleton added: 'The captain seemed to have been sailing long enough that he knew what he was doing.

They were all very thankful for the hospitality we had shown them they seemed happy, healthy nothing seemed out of the ordinary, just typical seafarers.'

He said that the charity is also preparing to help the crew once they are brought to shore. 'I'm sure once the vessel is cleared from its current position it's going to have to come back into berth for inspection, they will probably be back in port for a few more days and at that point we can go on board and ask what their needs are.'

The boat had been piloted by specialized local pilots trained to avoid obstacles at ports.

These specialist pilots depart the ships as soon as they are in open water.It is thought the vessel lost power after it left its port, causing it to veer off course and crash into a column supporting the bridge, although a formal report into the causes is yet to be completed.

The catastrophic collision has sent shockwaves throughout the state of Maryland, with Governor Wes Moore declaring a state of emergency

Officials were quick to rule out the catastrophe as intentional or an act of terrorism, and an early Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) report found the container ship 'lost propulsion' as it was leaving port.

The Dali container ship had undergone 27 inspections since 2015, and it had been found to have two 'deficiencies', according to a CNN review of records from the Electronic Quality Shipping Information System (Equasis).

READ MORE: Haunting satellite images show Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge wiped out by Dali cargo ship Advertisement

Notably, this included a June 2023 inspection in San Antonio, Chile, where a deficiency was found in the 'propulsion and auxiliary machinery' - with propulsion faults also noted in the early CISA report.

The Dali was also involved in a 2016 incident at the Port of Antwerp. A review in November of that year in Antwerp, Belgium found another 'deficiency' in its 'structural conditions.'

No deficiencies were found when the vessel was last inspected on September 9, 2023 by the US Coast Guard in New York.

All activity out of the Port of Baltimore, one of the most important trade hubs in North America, has ground to a halt.

The ship had departed the Seagirt Marine Terminal at around 12:30am Tuesday, before turning southeast towards the bridge around half an hour later.

The Dali was intended to sail underneath the bridge, however it struck a support beam. Investigations into the accident are still ongoing.

Observers said that black smoke was seen emanating from the ship in the moments beforehand, suggesting the crew may have attempted to reverse its engines.
Labor minister Bill Shorten has admitted rogue criminals have infiltrated the National Disability Insurance Scheme, with some reportedly offering drugs and strippers under the scheme.

While some Aussie families with special needs wait months to be approved for NDIS treatment, one service provider is said to be offering to take clients to 'strip clubs' and cannabis festivals in promotional material.

Radio host Ben Fordham first made the claims on his 2GB breakfast show last December, when the minister's office said NDIS investigators would look into the provider.

Three months on, Fordham claimed that not only is the provider still operating but now also offers nightclubbing, a pub crawl and a weekend away in Nimbin in northern NSW for the upcoming Mardi Grass festival.

The activities are allegedly all funded under the NDIS, according to Fordham, who demanded answers from the minister in a heated confrontation on Wednesday's program.

NDIS minister Bill Shorten vowed to crack down on dodgy service providers in a fiery radio interview on Wednesday

READ MORE: Ben Fordham makes shock claim about police chief after she cancelled an interview Breakfast radio host Ben Fordham has put NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb on blast after she cancelled a scheduled interview on his show. Fact-box text Advertisement

'I warned you about this mob in December,' Fordham told the minister.

The minister appeared to be unaware of the new claims about the service provider and vowed to chase the matter, admitting that 'one rogue is one too many.'

'I've referred it to our investigators but I don't know if they've shut them down or not but I certainly have acted,' he told Fordham

Mr Shorten also insisted that he'd never heard of the Mardis Grass in Nimbin until Wednesday, sparking a fiery response from Fordham.

'Bill! This is same service provider that was taking clients to strip joints last year,' he fumed.

Mr Shorten hit back at claims that he's sitting back 'doing bugger all' as Fordham demanded more to be done about how NDIS funding is spent.

'You've got all these people going on NDIS cruises and people going to the weed festival in Nimbin,' the broadcaster said.

'At some stage as minister, you have to make the tough decision and say 'you know what? We can only pay for so much and just put a line through a whole heap of stuff.''

Mr Shorten planned to address the issue of dodgy providers in parliament later on Wednesday morning.

'That is why at long last I'm putting a proposed bill in parliament tightening up what people can spend the (NDIS) money on,' the minister said.

'Do I think it should have happened 10 years ago? Probably.'

Broadcaster Ben Fordham claimed that NDIS service provider plans to take clients to the Mardi Grass Festival in Nimbin. Pictured are previous festival revellers

Ben Fordham (pictured) first raised concerns about the service provider three months ago

Fordham questioned whether the overhaul should have happened two years ago after Mr Shorten became NDIS minister when Labor was elected into power.

He added that there would be funding for legitimate recipients still waiting to be approved on the scheme after an overhaul was done a year ago.

'You've got to talk to people before you do stuff,' Mr Shorten hit back.

'Disabled people are sick of everyone being an expert on their lives and I have to talk to them first.'

Mr Shorten admitted that there were 'dodgy providers taking a lend' of the NDIS and implored Fordham to read out the abuse he receives from them.

He also agreed that the NDIS needed a clean-up, despite state premiers opposing major changes and industry backlash.

'If you want to read my social media, the trolls and the people who say I only have bad things to say about service providers I want to be very clear  most people on the scheme are trying to do the right thing but there is a cohort of dodgy people trying to have lend of the scheme,' Mr Shorten said.

The minister vowed to look into the service provider offering clients activities such as strip clubs and a weekend away to attend Mardi Grass in Nimbin

'There'll be people in the disability services sector scaring everyone about how unfair it will be.

'On the other hand because that's politics, you (Fordham) will be flogging us because it's not being done quick enough.

'What I'm going to do is make sure the scheme money gets through to the people for whom the scheme is designed for.'

Earlier this week, Mr Shorten announced the establishment of a new taskforce to investigate overcharging.

'If you're ripping off NDIS participants - you'll get caught and face the consequences,' he warned.
An opposition group in Serbia launched a petition Monday against a real estate development project that would be financed by the firm of Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner at the site of the former Serbian army headquarters destroyed in a NATO bombing campaign in 1999.

Earlier this month, Kushner confirmed reports that his company plans to finance the project in central Belgrade, with the government set to fork over a 99-year lease at no charge.

It would feature a high-rise hotel, a luxury apartment complex, office spaces and shops.

The petition asks Serbia's government to respect the law, which says the building can only be returned to its original function.

It also calls for the Museum of Serbian History to be established there.

The former federal military headquarters in Belgrade, photographed in 2010, that former President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner's firm wishes to redevelop into a high-rise hotel, a luxury apartment complex, office spaces and shops

The development project would be financed by the firm of former President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner (left), a former White House aide. He is photographed with wife Ivanka Trump (center) and daughter Arabella (right) earlier this month

'Construction of a hotel on the site of this building is illegal and represents the destruction of our dignity,' the Kreni-Promeni (Move-Change) opposition movement said.

Its statement said 10,000 people signed the petition in less than 24 hours.

A decade earlier, former President Donald Trump expressed interest in developing the same site, The New York Times reported last week.

Trump Organization associates traveled to Belgrade to inspect the locale, but the project didn't get off the ground before the 2016 presidential election, which Trump won over Democrat Hillary Clinton.

Kushner told The Times in an interview Sunday that he was unaware in his father-in-law's previous interest.

'I had no idea my father-in-law had been interested in that region, and I doubt he has any awareness of this deal we are working on,' Kushner said.

Kathleen Clark, a law professor at Washington University in St. Louis who specializes in government ethics, told The Times that if the project went through and Trump were reelected this fall it could become a conflict of interest.

People set on a truck a Russian flag, that reads: 'Pray to God, hold on to Russia', prior to a rally in front of the former Serbian army headquarters, destroyed during NATO's bombing campaign, in Belgrade, Serbia on Sunday

A huge billboard that shows Serbian soldiers and reads: 'We serve Serbia!' displayed on the former Serbian army headquarters, destroyed during NATO's bombing campaign, in Belgrade, Serbia on Sunday

An opposition group in Serbia launched a petition Monday to turn the site into the Museum of Serbian History. Kushner's firm wants to build a hotel, luxury condos, offices and shops at the location instead

'The concern is the Serbia government may attempt to influence a future President Trump by enriching the presidents family,' Clark told the paper. 'Foreign policy toward Serbia should be influenced by what is in the United States' interests, not any financial favors coming from the Serbian government.'

Now pro-Trump government officials in Serbia have welcomed the project, but the opposition and many in the general public have spoken out against it.

For many, the site of the bombed-out army command building is a potent symbol of Serbia's resistance against what they called NATO aggression 25 years ago.

Serbian forces fought a 1998-99 war with ethnic Albanian separatists in Kosovo, which was then a Serbian province.

About 13,000 people, mostly ethnic Albanians, died until a 78-day, U.S.-led NATO bombing campaign pushed Serbian troops out of Kosovo.

Kosovo declared independence in 2008, but the government in Belgrade doesnt recognize its neighbor as a separate country.

Earlier this month, the Albanian tourism ministry acknowledged it received an investment project application from Kushner's firm, Affinity Partners, to turn a former military base on Sazan Island in the Adriatic Sea into a resort.

Prime Minister Edi Rama said Albania was proud to have attracted such interest.
Six missing construction workers who fell into the river when a Baltimore bridge collapsed are presumed dead according to the coast guard

Six missing construction workers who fell into the river when the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed are presumed dead as the Coast Guard calls off the search.

The Coast Guard is ending its active search and rescue mission for the missing workers that fell of the Francis Scott Key Bridge when a cargo ship smashed into it on Tuesday morning.

Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said that based on the extended period of time since the bridge collapsed and the freezing water temperatures 'we do not believe that we are going to find any of these individuals still alive.'

Divers will return to the water at 6am on Wednesday to resume the search efforts and attempt to locate the missing construction workers' bodies.

'At this point, we do not know where they are,' Col. Roland L. Butler of the Maryland State Police said, 'but we intend to give it our best effort to help these families find closure.'

Six missing construction workers who fell into the river when the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed are presumed dead as the Coast Guard calls of the search

Rescue teams searching the Patapsco River in the aftermath of the bridge collapse, leaving vehicles submerged and workers missing

Maryland authorities are using sonar to search for people who fell into the 47F water as they were working to repair potholes on the 185-foot bridge when it collapsed

This comes after another body was found during the search earlier on Tuesday. 'We are hearing one body was found,' Baltimore City Council Member Phylicia Porter said on CNN.

There were no other details released about the body and police have not released the person's name.

Two other people were pulled out of the freezing Patapsco River after the collapse prior to the discovery of the body, according to the Baltimore fire chief.

One of the individuals was in a 'very serious condition' and rushed to a local trauma center, the chief reported.

The other of the two individuals pulled out was not injured.

Footage shows rescue teams searching the Patapsco River in the aftermath of the bridge collapse, leaving vehicles submerged and workers missing.

Teams can be seen inspecting the Singaporean-flagged Dali after it collided with the bridge on Tuesday morning.

Remnants of the 1.6 mile-long bridge can be seen embedded in the bow of the vessel while teams point flashlights around the murky waters as they search for those missing in the catastrophe.

Five vehicles are currently submerged in the river, with six construction workers unaccounted for who had been working on the bridge when it went down.

Maryland authorities are using sonar to search for people who fell into the 47F water as they were working to repair potholes on the 185-foot bridge when it collapsed.

Officials have since said they have spotted five vehicles underwater thanks to infrared and side-scan sonar technology - three passenger vehicles, a cement truck and a fifth vehicle.

Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency Tuesday morning following the catastrophic collision, which occurred at about 1.30am.

The ship was 20 minutes into its journey when it slammed into a support column on the bridge.

The Democrat said the ship's crew managed to issue a 'mayday' before it crashed into the bridge, which allowed officials to stop cars from going on the bridge.

'We're thankful that between the 'mayday' and collapse that-that we had officials who were able to-to begin the stop the flow of traffic so more cars were not up on the bridge,' Moore added.

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld said eight people were on the bridge when it collapsed, and two of them were rescued from the water, with one declining medical treatment and the other being taken to the hospital.

An injured person was pictured being loaded into an ambulance after getting taken off the ship following the collapse

The ship was 20 minutes into its journey when it slammed into a support column on the bridge

Wiedefeld said: 'We know there were individuals on the bridge at the time of the collapse, working on the bridge, contractors for us.'

He said the workers were 'basically doing some concrete deck repair', but said they did not know how many vehicles were involved.

Doctors told DailyMail.com those on the bridge faced an agonizing drop that would feel like 'hitting concrete' and result in major injuries like broken bones and a ruptured heart, with a small chance of survival.

Once in the 47-degree water, hypothermia would kick in, causing hyperventilating, loss of motor control, confusion, and organ failure, starting in just three minutes.

Those in cars would have just two minutes to escape before drowning.

President Joe Biden said on X: 'This morning, I convened senior members of my team for a briefing on the collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge.

'I've directed my Administration to ensure every federal resource is available to assist search and rescue efforts and response to this terrible incident.'

The president announced the government would pay the full cost to replace the bridge and insisted it was an accident.

Video shows the ship going dark seconds before the collision, suggesting a power failure on board.

The ship's crew managed to issue a 'mayday' before it crashed into the bridge, which allowed officials to stop cars from going on the bridge

The bridge spans 9,000 feet across the Patapsco River and is 180 feet above the water

The ship involved is the 948 foot long Dali, a Singaporean-flagged container

It still remains unclear as to why the cargo ship crashed into the Key Bridge long before the morning commute, or how many people might be in the waters of the busy harbor near a key port.

Initial reports have pointed to a loss of propulsion or power on board just prior to the collision.

Rescuers pulled two people from the water by mid-morning and searched for more. One was unhurt, the other suffered injuries, officials said.

FBI special agent in charge of the Baltimore office William DelBagno said 'there is no specific or credible information to suggest there are ties to terrorism in this incident.'

The collapse is sure to create a logistical nightmare for months, if not years, for the East Coast, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore and snarling cargo and commuter traffic.

According to The Baltimore Sun, the Dali was setting off on a particularly long voyage of 28 days because the crew wanted to go around South Africa to avoid the Red Sea, where Yemeni Houthi rebels have been attacking western ships to protest the war in Gaza.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has asked that media outlets stop using the video showing the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsing.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott holds a news conference after a container ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, left, speaks during a news conference as Sen. Chris Van Hollen looks on near the scene

Speaking to CNN, Mayor Scott told the outlet: 'I am going to be the first to ask that CNN and everyone else stopped showing the video.

'No one needs to see the possibility of their family member being severally injured or otherwise over and over again. It's just traumatizing our community.'

The ship smashed into one of the bridge's supports, causing the structure to break apart like a toy.

It tumbled into the water almost instantly  a shocking spectacle that was captured on video and posted on social media. The vessel caught fire, and thick, black smoke billowed out of it.

'Never would you think that you would see, physically see, the Key Bridge tumble down like that. It looked like something out of an action movie,' Mayor Scott said earlier, calling it 'an unthinkable tragedy.'
A jobless mercenary who has been disowned by his father and a former National Front member have been labelled an 'absolute disgrace' after becoming the first two British men known to be fighting for Russia in Ukraine.

Ben Stimson, 48, posted a video on social media this weekend of him standing in front of a Russian flag wearing military fatigues alongside Aiden Minnis, 37, saying: 'Yes, yes, I'm back in Russia, I'm back in uniform.'

The traitor has posted a number of videos online since he fled to Donetsk in February to join Putin's marauding forces, including sickening footage released last night which showed frontline soldiers walking past two dead bodies.

In one of his videos, he declares: 'Every man takes his choice... a lot of us, the foreign volunteers, have chosen to come over to this side, to the Russian side.'

Stimson, who had previously been jailed for assisting pro-Russian militia forces in the Donbass region in 2015, is currently fighting Ukrainian soldiers with the Pyatnashka brigade.

His 'best British friend in the Russian army' Minnis is a former drug addict and convicted thug from Chippenham, who calls himself a 'Z Patriot' and a 'sapper in the Russian army'.

The Wiltshire man has also been active on social media recently, championing Putin, hailing the Russian tyrant as 'still the greatest politician on earth' in one of his posts.

Former British Army commander Colonel Richard Kemp furiously called for the pair to be arrested, raging: 'These two are an absolute disgrace and are traitors who upon their return to the UK should be arrested and jailed.'

Do you know them? Get in touch. Email jon.brady@mailonline.co.uk

Stimson, who had previously been jailed for joining pro-Russian militia forces fighting against the Ukrainian government in 2015, is currently battling Ukrainian soldiers with the Pyatnashka brigade in the Donetsk region

Aiden Minnis is a former National Front member and convicted thug from Chippenham, whom calls himself a 'Z Patriot'

Minnis labelled Vladimir Putin as 'still the greatest politician on earth' in one of his social media posts

Stimson has posted a number of videos online since he fled to Donetsk in February this year, including footage which showed frontline soldiers walking past two dead bodies

The pair will face jail if and when they return to the UK, receiving a similar fate to that of the British jihadis who joined ISIS in Syria.

Stimson posted his first picture from Donetsk onto Russian social network channel VK on March 14 and introduced his 'British friend' Aiden Minnis on the same day.

Having gone off the radar since that day, he posted a video called 'Back to Russia with love' on Saturday.

In the video, he waves an unexploded grenade shell used by Ukraine and jokes: 'We've got some British taxpayers' returns.'

In another clip uploaded last weekend, Stimson adds: 'Every man takes his choice... a lot of us, the foreign volunteers, have chosen to come over to this side, to the Russian side.'

Last night, he shared footage of frontline soldiers walking past two dead bodies and land mines in a muddy field, before they dig up a hand grenade.

Stimson posted his first picture from Donetsk onto Russian social network channel VK on March 14 and has uploaded a number of videos ever since. In this one he appears to be holding a deadly 40mm grenade launcher round

Last night, he shared footage of frontline soldiers walking past two dead bodies and land mines in a muddy field, before they dig up a hand grenade

Having gone off the radar since March 14, he posted a video called 'Back to Russia with love' on Saturday

Stimson was jailed for five years and four months for terror offences in 2017, after he went to the conflict zone in the Donbass region in 2015 for four months and assisted the anti-government militia in Ukraine, the year after Russia annexed Crimea.

He reinvented himself as a self styled 'soldier of the new Russia' after he studied pro-Communist propaganda about the Ukraine conflict on the internet when his business crumbled.

While in the country, he gave an interview in which he claimed he was 'a working class man with no work' whose last job was on a zero hours contract.

He said he could not live in Britain any more and was prepared to kill someone if his life was threatened on the front line in what he said he would class as 'an act of war'.

However, Manchester Crown Court heard in 2017 that Stimson, formerly of Oldham, Greater Manchester, did not actually engage in any fighting during his time in eastern Ukraine and had intended to perform humanitarian work by driving ambulances.

But since returning to Russia on February 23, he has admitted on social media that he fought in the 2015 Battle of Debaltseve.

He wrote: 'I'm ready to go now, bags packed. I just hope the British police don't arrest me and make something up or twist things to incriminate me on something that does not exist.'

According to the Mirror, Stimson was homeless and using heroin after leaving jail last June and sold his possessions to pay for a visa and flight to Moscow.

Stimson was jailed for terror offences after he went to the conflict zone in the Donbass region in 2015 for four months and assisted the anti-government militia in Ukraine, the year after Russia annexed Crimea

His three-month visa to Russia runs out on May 17 and he managed to fly to Moscow from Manchester Airport, via Istanbul, despite being detained and questioned under the terrorism act.

He said the journey cost him 1,450 after 'police took me phone and laptop'.

Stimson also posted a photo of two pen drives, saying: 'Didn't find these did you? You stupid thick b******s'.

Stimson's father Martin, a former town councillor and Morris dancer, said he had now disowned his son, after he had supporting him during his 2017 court hearing.

'Ive cut him off. Before I cut him off he was in Moscow,' he told the Mirror last night, adding his rogue lad was now 'on his own'.

Minnis's VK page shows him holding semi-automatic weapons and wearing Russian uniforms with a Donetsk insignia posing with the Irish flag.

He said: 'My family heritage is from Ireland and I have Irish family. But also an ideological thing.'

Stimson labels Minnis as his 'best British friend in the Russian army' and a 'good guy' in one of his posts, but the ex-National Front member is a former drug addict with a long criminal record.

In 2006, he admitted beating up relatives of a driver whose dangerous driving had caused the deaths of his cousin and girlfriend.

In 2008, he was jailed for four years after he carried out unprovoked racist attack on a Chippenham rugby player.

In January of that year, whilst he was being convicted for beating up a homeless man, his lawyer told the court: 'He was a member of the National Front, a class A drug addict and an alcoholic by the age of 20.'

The Foreign Enlistment Act 1870 makes it illegal to join the armed forces of a country fighting a state at peace with Britain, but anti-terror legislation is more likely to be invoked.

Minnis's VK page shows him wearing Russian uniforms (left hand side of the Irish flag) with a Donetsk insignia

Aiden Minnis (right) is a former drug addict with a long criminal record who labelled Putin as 'still the greatest politician on earth'

In 2015, Stimson pleaded guilty to a single charge of assisting others in committing terrorism acts. He was jailed for five years and four months.

The court heard how he had carried out 'extensive' research on the conflict in the summer of 2015 and among internet search entries later found on his computer were: 'Volunteer to fight in Donbass', 'Britons fighting in Donbass', and 'UK law on fighting overseas'.

Stimson flew from Manchester to Moscow via Brussels on August 8, 2015 and was transported to Donbass on his arrival through a contact he established before his journey.

In mid-October 2015, he gave an interview to BBC correspondent Tom Burridge in which his face was shielded from the camera.

Since returning to Russia on February 23, Stimson has admitted on social media that he fought in the 2015 Battle of Debaltseve.

He returned to the UK on November 23 2015 and was arrested at Manchester Airport on suspicion of terrorism offences.

In his luggage was found various items of military clothing including some which displayed the would-be flag of 'Novorussia', the court was told.

Stimson had a number of previous convictions for 'low level' offences such as criminal damage, theft and drugs possession.

A report from a forensic psychiatrist highlighted his 'troubled background', a dependency on drugs and alcohol and his suffering from depressive disorders.
Major changes to how firefighters tackle blazes are coming after a landmark inquiry into the 25 deaths that happened during Australia's horrific 'Black Summer' bushfires.

New rules for the use of firefighting aircraft, better alert systems and remodelling risk classifications are among the recommendations from the coronial inquiry.

The inquiry examined 25 deaths across 46 fires in NSW.

The 700-page report delivered on Wednesday is more than two years in the making and builds on the work of multiple earlier inquiries.

NSW State Coroner Teresa O'Sullivan said the 2019-20 bushfire season, which came to be known as Black Summer, was without doubt one of the most catastrophic on record.

Smoke from a large bushfire is seen outside Nana Glen, near Coffs Harbour, NSW on November 12, 2019

A firefighter is pictured conducting back-burning to secure residential areas from encroaching bushfires on the NSW central coast on December 10, 2019

READ MORE: Firefighter broke into a burning house to rescue a family of seven during Black Summer bushfires A fireman fights the Black Summer bushfires in NSW's South Coast in December 2019 Advertisement

'It was unprecedented in scale and intensity,' she told the Lidcombe Coroner's Court on Wednesday.

'The sheer scale and ferocity of the fires burning simultaneously meant resources were stretched across the state ... it is remarkable the loss of life was not even higher.'

The 28 recommendations are directed towards the commissioners of the NSW rural fire service and police, and the chief executive of state-owned infrastructure company Essential Energy.

Hearings were held across NSW including in Queanbeyan, Lismore, Armidale, Taree, Cooma and Katoomba.

Ms O'Sullivan reiterated the purpose of the inquiry was not to assign blame as she delivered her findings.

There were a range of causes for the bushfires including power lines, lightning strikes and out-of-control backburning.

One fire, which ultimately destroyed 10 homes, was started by a farmhand using a welder to fix a metal fence post on a drought-ravaged farm in central western NSW, the inquiry was told.

That fire went on to burn for 58 days across more than 17,000 hectares.

The Black Summer fires burned through more than 5.5million hectares in NSW alone.

The inquest also heard only 10 out of 130 fire investigators were available at any one time during the 2019-20 season.

The coronial inquiry followed separate inquiries, including one commissioned by the Berejiklian state government, which recommended landowners be obliged to conduct more hazard-reduction burns on their properties and take an active role in bushfire preparation.

ABC photographer Matt Roberts reacts to seeing his sister's destroyed house in Quaama, NSW, on January 1, 2020

Horses are seen in a paddock as the Gospers Mountain Fire burned on a property at Bilpin, NSW on December 21, 2019
HOUSTON, TEXAS - JANUARY 1: Houston Mayor John Whitmire said he plans to put regulations on short-term rentals after a string of unwarranted sexual and party events in short-term rentals. (Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images) Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspap/Houston Chronicle via Getty Imag

After several complaints, Houston Mayor John Whitmire said the city plans to regulate residential homes and apartments used as short-term rentals. His vow comes as residents living near the Museum District and the Galleria, among others, said they are witnessing a string of public sex, noisy parties, and domestic violence instances and are heavily concerned about the lack of supervision of renters.

Whitmire said he plans to meet with City Attorney Arturo Michel to propose an ordinance regulating short-term rentals like hotels. Council member Sallie Alcorn said regulations have been proposed in the past but often met with hesitation from the city legal department. Still, Whitmire said regulating short-term rentals has now moved up on his priority list.

"I'm running into so many issues where they have been kinda covered up or ignored for years," Whitmire said in an interview with KHOU 11 on Wednesday. "The short-term rentals are a serious problem. It's affecting property values and quality of life issues. The pictures I saw of nudity, alcohol, drugs, really in many locations in Houston, the Museum District and the Galleria."

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Concerned residents outlined some incidents in the public session portion of the city council meeting last week.

Museum District resident Kathryn McNeil told council members she remembers having "wonderful neighbors" when she first moved to the apartment complex but insisted that the neighborhood has experienced a shift after one person bought several properties two years ago and rented them out through Airbnb and VRBO.

"We have worked hard to get the landlord knocked off Airbnb, but just this past weekend, we found the landlord on VRBO and Expedia," McNeil said. Just this week, McNeil recounted a domestic dispute that occurred at a short-term rental property next to her home.

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"Sunday morning, I was out with my dogs and, along with four different police units, breaking up a domestic dispute that was taking place out on the street. This was a couple that had rented one of the apartments short term. After the police came and settled that dispute on the street in the afternoon, I was texted a picture of someone hiding between the utility room and my fence. I decided I should go find out if it was a homeless person or what I needed to do. It was a woman hiding; she asked me if I would please call the police. Her boyfriend, who was in one of the apartments, had just beaten the crap out of her," she added.

According to McNeil, the owner is offering low rates for groups of people to stay a few nights on the property.

Other residents, like Kathy Yang, claim short-term rentals have spurred chaos in her Galleria area neighborhood, claiming that they have attracted prostitution and public sex events near children.

"These owners run these businesses in our neighborhoods as unlicensed hotels, motels, after-hours bars, nightclubs, and even brothels," she said. "We see the live sex on their balcony Monday morning when parents drop their kids at the Briargrove School. We're stuck; We're trapped. Please help."

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Yang referred to a video reported on by FOX 26 in December, which shows a blurry image of two Airbnb renters allegedly having sex on the balcony of one of the Houston condos.

Residents argue that the city should be able to regulate short-term rentals by treating them like hotels through the hotel ordinance. Other big cities have already begun placing regulations on short-term rentals. New York City, for example, has begun cracking down on Airbnbs and other short-term rentals by forcing hosts to register with the city to continue providing stays.

"Legal has pushed back a lot on other cities implementing regulations that get challenged or overturned in the courts," Alcorn said. "On the hotel issue... legal did not feel like it met the true definition of a hotel."Other major cities like New York City have imposed regulations on short-term rentals, which have only made it harder to rent, according to Bloomberg.
Notorious Sydney rapper Ali 'Ay Huncho' Younes has been arrested along with 14 others following police raids targeting the Alameddine crime network.

Younes was arrested early on Wednesday morning as part of investigations into an alleged dial-a-dealer drug network across Sydney's southwest.

Detectives had already shut down 26 phones allegedly being used for drug runs, which were connected to more than 50,000 customers.

Some of those customers received a text from NSW Police which read: 'The NSW Police Force: Strike Force Wessex has identified this number engaging with an organised crime drug supply 'dial-a-dealer' phone.

'If this continues you may be subject to further investigation. Cease all contact now.'

Notorious Sydney rapper Ali 'Ay Huncho' Younes has been arrested along with 14 others following police raids targeting the Alameddine crime network

Younes was arrested early on Wednesday morning as part of investigations into an alleged dial-a-dealer drug network across Sydney's southwest

Younes makes 'drill rap', a subgenre which is filled with references of using weapons like knives, hammers and guns on members of rival gangs from opposing postcode suburbs.

NSW Police Deputy Commissioner David Hudson said Wednesday's arrests eliminated what was left of the Alameddine crime network.

'Today's operation has cleaned up what was left of them on our shores,' he said.

Cops claim the traditional code of silence around criminal gangs is being upturned by a new generation of youths seeking social media fame.

'It's (drill rap) is used to gain notoriety, the basis is unless you've actually done the crime you can't sing or rap about it,' Strike Force Raptor commander Jason Weinstein said.

Younes is yet to be charged.

More to come
Coles supermarket could potentially be cash-free over the Easter long weekend in a 'temporary' measure amid industry-wide issues with cash flow.

A 'cash process update' memo was sent to Coles staff across the country warning the supermarket's liquor stores would temporarily be 'card only' from March 27 to April 5.

Daily Mail Australia understands the measure will only be instituted at stores if cash reserves were to become low during the 10-day period.

Coles reaffirmed it was not going cashless and cash transactions will continue to be available to customers at all Coles supermarkets over the long weekend.

The memo, shared on social media by a Coles liquor worker, advised staff to print and display 'card only' notices at open registers if cash reserves become low.

Coles Liquor stores including Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and First Choice will temporarily be cashless from March 27 to April 5 amid 'industry wide' issues with cash movements

Employees were also advised to consolidate the use of cash to one register as cash collections from Armaguard would be paused.

According to the memo, customers should be reminded prior to starting their transaction that cash may not be used.

Workers were also given a response to use if a customer questions why cash is not being accepted.

Staff should reply: 'Our change reserves have been impacted by a decline in cash transactions, along with industry wide challenges with cash movement services. All card purchases are still accepted.'

The temporary measure applies to Coles Liquor stores including Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and First Choice.

The memo advised staff that stores which share services with Coles Supermarket should continue to source change through Coles whilst available.

A Coles liquor worker shared the 'cash process update' memo on social media (pictured)

The memo instructed workers to convert to 'card only' if cash reserves become low (pictured)

It comes amid claims Armaguard, which is the nation's biggest banknote delivery company, is at risk of insolvency as the use of cash across the country has declined.

An emergency funding package deal was lobbed last week by Australia's major banks and largest retailers including Coles, Woolworths, Wesfarmers and Australia Post.

If accepted by Armaguard, the last-minute lifeline would give the cash delivery service financial support in the tens of millions of dollars - enough until the second half of the year.

Coles told Daily Mail Australia the temporary measure was due to 'industry wide challenges' with cash movements across the country.

'We are not transitioning to cashless transactions,' Coles said.

'Due to industry wide challenges with cash movements, we are taking some temporary steps to prepare for disruption to Armaguard services.

'Cash transactions continue to be available in all Coles supermarkets and Coles Liquor stores.'
A secret police catalogue of 'hate incidents' could destroy job prospects as the information can be disclosed to potential employers, it was warned yesterday.

People trying to get jobs working with children or vulnerable adults could find a non-crime hate incident (NCHI) being disclosed to a prospective employer without knowing it even exists.

Disclosure Scotland is responsible for sharing information about people's criminal records so employers can decide if the applicant is suitable for the job.

There are now fears that 'enhanced' checks by employers to the government agency may uncover a police record of a non-crime hate incident.

The Mail revealed this week that Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser is threatening to take legal action against police after his name was logged on a database when a trans activist complained about one of his tweets.

Disclosure Scotland is responsible for sharing information about people's criminal records so employers can decide if the applicant is suitable for the job (Stock Image)

Thousands of other people are named on police files under the 'Orwellian' system  and experts say details of the incidents recorded can be revealed during a job application process, at the discretion of Police Scotland.

Critics fear a surge in NCHIs after the introduction of hate crime legislation on Monday.

Last night, Mr Fraser said: 'I was  and remain  furious that the spurious complaint made against me was logged as a hate incident without my knowledge.

'How many other members of the public are similarly unwitting victims of this Orwellian approach to policing, despite having committed no crime?'

Policy analyst Murray Blackburn Mackenzie said NCHIs are recorded on Police Scotland's vulnerable persons database, which is incident-based and retains information 'in relation to a range of concerns'.

Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser is threatening to take legal action against police after his name was logged on a database when a trans activist complained about one of his tweets

Disclosure Scotland said: 'Enhanced checks include conviction information and may include other relevant information about the applicant that the Chief Constable reasonably believes is relevant for the purpose of the disclosure.

'This may include reference to non-conviction matters.'

Alistair Bonnington, former honorary professor of criminal law at the University of Glasgow, said recording NCHIs 'offends against a number of important democratic principles'.

He added: 'The police must be operationally independent in democratic society  otherwise we live in a police state.'

Former SNP deputy leader Jim Sillars urged people to 'resist' the new law, adding: 'If all of us do the same...we can render this Hate Crime Act unworkable.'

Experts say details of the incidents recorded can be revealed during a job application process, at the discretion of Police Scotland (Pictured: Headquarters of Police Scotland at Tulliallan Castle in Fife)

Toby Young of the Free Speech Union said: 'One of the most sinister aspects of non-crime hate incidents is that the police can reveal them during enhanced disclosure checks.

'That could mean not getting a job as a teacher or a carer. Why? Because the policy has judged you're guilty of a 'non-crime'. It's positively Orwellian.'

The Scottish Government said the recording of non-crime hate incidents was a matter for Police Scotland'.

Police Scotland was approached for comment.
The son of a woman who was tortured and murdered by British banker Rurik Jutting has said he will 'never forgive' the 'evil' killer for what he did and demanded that he takes responsibility for his crimes.

Double killer Jutting was jailed for life in 2016 for the 'sadistic' murders of two Indonesian women, Sumarti Ningsih and Seneng Mujiasih, at his luxury Hong Kong flat ten years ago.

Sumarti, who was 23 when she was brutally slaughtered, was held captive and beaten by Jutting for days before he slashed her throat, filming her horrific ordeal throughout.

Before she became one of Jutting's victims, Sumarti was the 'breadwinner' for her family back home, and had left her one-month-old son Mohammed and her parents to earn a living and help to bring them out of poverty.

Now a teenager, Mohammed Hafidz Arnovan has spoken out about how his mother's death continues to haunt him, as well as his anger towards Jutting.

Double killer Rurik Jutting was found guilty of the 'sadistic' murder of two Indonesian women

Sumarti Ningsih, who was 23 when she was brutally slaughtered, was held captive by Jutting for days

Now a teenager, her son Mohammed Hafidz Arnovan has spoken out about how his mother's death continues to haunt him, as well as his anger towards Jutting (pictured as a young boy)

'He took my mother, I will never forgive him. He's evil,' the 14-year-old told The Mirror from his central Java village of Gandrungmangu.

He went on: 'I'm angry. Because of him I lost my mother.'

Sumarti had been working in Hong Kong as a domestic worker and in the sex industry to supplement her income to help her family back home since 2010.

Her family now live in poverty without the much-needed monthly payments she would send home, and are unable to pay for Mohammed's education.

Sumarti's mother continues to be heartbroken by her daughter's loss, asking of Jutting: 'Why did he do that to my daughter? I thought he looked like an animal, he's not human. He's evil.

'He did not need to kill her, I can never forgive him. Even now my heart is broken. My daughter is gone and I can't forgive him. He did terrible things to her.'

The 58-year-old went on: 'He should never be freed. He will kill again. The British Government never even contacted us to give their sympathies. We have heard nothing.'

Sumarti's family has demanded that Jutting or his relatives pay compensation to them, but say the ex-banker, who is now in his 40s, has declared himself bankrupt to avoid paying out.

Because Sumarti had travelled to work in Hong Kong on a tourist visa, her family is not entitled to a payout from authorities there.

They have criticised the British Government for failing to offer them support, and have repeatedly threatened to sue Jutting.

Chilling details of Jutting's sickening murders emerged during his trial. Pictured in a prison van in 2014

Chilling details of Jutting's sickening murders emerged during his trial, including 43 videos which showed him torturing his victims and confessing to his wicked crimes.

Several of jurors could barely watch the films, which showed the body of Sumarti, his first victim, lying on the floor with her throat cut.

In one 20-minute video Jutting could be heard saying: 'How much do you love me. If you say yes, I will hit you once. If you say no I will hit you twice. If you scream, I will punch you.'

In another he says to the camera: 'It's Monday night, I've held her captive since early Saturday. I've raped her repeatedly, tortured her, tortured her badly.'

Jutting was jailed for life in 2016 for the 'sadistic' murders of two Indonesian women, Sumarti Ningsih and Seneng Mujiasih

Sentencing Jutting in 2016, the judge described the killer's 'psychopathic traits'.

The Surrey-born killer, a former 350,000 a year trader with Bank of America Merrill Lynch, had claimed he was out of his mind on drugs and drink when he carried out the murders in October 2014.

Two top British psychiatrists flew from the UK to give evidence and said Jutting was also suffering from narcissistic personality disorder and sexual sadism disorder.

As he was jailed, the depraved murderer said: 'I remain haunted daily by the memory of my actions and by the knowledge of the acute pain I have caused to their loved ones, not least to Sumarti Ningshi's young son, now motherless.

'The evil I have inflicted can never be remedied in words or actions. Nevertheless, for what it may be worth, I am sorry.'
Investigators are blaming staffers and a faulty water heater for the deadly incident

The victim's girlfriend and another female roommate were told by maintenance staffer that their dorms were safe to re-enter after alarms throughout the day

A carbon monoxide leak in December took the life of a 21-year-old student at Evergreen State College in Washington

A student who suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning revealed that maintenance crews told her she could safely return to her college dorm just hours before the leak killed her boyfriend.

On December 11, 2023, a deadly carbon monoxide leak broke out in on-campus housing at Evergreen State College in Washington.

The gas tragically killed 21-year-old student Jonathan Rodriguez, and sent his girlfriend and her roommate to the hospital.

New details in the investigation have revealed that maintenance personnel at the on-campus Modular Apartments units in Olympia silenced carbon monoxide alarms earlier that day.

According to investigators, the maintenance workers assumed that the alarms were faulty and that there was no actual leak.

The carbon monoxide poisoning tragically killed 21-year-old student Jonathan Rodriguez and sent his girlfriend and a roommate to the hospital

The victim was set to graduate this Spring. Rodriguez is survived by his parents and two siblings, according to an obituary

'He connected with so many people at Evergreen and made a lot [of] friends along the way,' the obituary said

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) conducted a three-month investigation last December and blamed a poorly installed tankless water heater for the deadly incident

New details in the investigation have revealed that maintenance personnel at the on-campus Modular Apartments units in Olympia silenced carbon monoxide alarms earlier that day

'That mistaken assumption was one of several key contributors to this tragedy,' the Patrol investigation stated.

The workers told Rodriguez's girlfriend and another female that they could return to their dorm rooms despite the alarms.

Despite efforts from an Evergreen police officer who broke down the door and performed CPR at 8:30 pm that night, within hours was dead. The females, 19 and 20, were sent to hospital.

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) conducted a three-month investigation last December and blamed a poorly installed tankless water heater for the deadly incident.

Photographs obtained through a public records request by KING 5 show what investigators described as an exhaust pipe that was not fully connected to a vent leading outside.

Investigators also blamed campus maintenance crews, who failed to recognize that there was a carbon monoxide leak despite the alarm.

The alarms had gone off several times throughout the day, but crews failed to realize that there was an actual carbon monoxide threat.

After the alarms were cleaned by staffers, students were told they were allowed to go back to their rooms.

One of the students told investigators that she had asked the maintenance workers if it was safe to return to the dorms and they said yes.

On December 11, 2023, there was a carbon monoxide leak in on-campus housing at Evergreen State College in Washington

One of the students told investigators that she had asked the maintenance workers if it was safe to return to the dorms and they said yes

Photographs obtained through a public records request by KING 5 show what investigators described as an exhaust pipe that was not fully connected to a vent leading outside

'When the alarms first turned off, I wasn't sure, so [I said] 'We're good? We're all good to go?' And he said, 'Yeah, you should be all good. You're good to go,'' she said.

The other student described the final moments she remembered before falling unconscious from the exposure to carbon monoxide.

'Just suddenly, I kind of fell to the floor in my bedroom, and because I was still feeling dizzy and I almost didn't really process that I fell, until I was trying to push myself back up,' said the student. She said the next thing she remembers is waking up at the hospital.

Neither of the students are being identified, nor the staffers, until a charging decision has been made in the investigation.

Dr. John Carmichael, president of The Evergreen State College, said no students live in those college dorm units following the incident.

He also reported that whenever an alarm sounds in a living unit, campus police and the local fire department are notified following the campus tragedy.

The 21-year-old victim was set to graduate this Spring.

Rodriguez is survived by his parents and two siblings, according to an obituary.

'He connected with so many people at Evergreen and made a lot [of] friends along the way,' the obituary said. 'He deeply loved and cared for so many people, including his partner Abigail. Jon was very excited for his future career plans, goals, and personal life.'
Carrie Johnson's friend Nimco Ali has blamed 'Sadiq Khan's London' after the Metropolitan Police dropped an investigation into a stolen item that was fitted with a tracker.

Ms Ali, who is godmother to one of Boris and Carrie Johnson's children, blasted Scotland Yard as an 'absolute joke' after being informed that her theft case had been closed.

The former independent government adviser, who has not shared details of the apparent theft, claimed she located the item with an Apple AirTag tracking device and that she had CCTV of the man who stole from her.

Despite claiming to have shared the tracking information with police, Ms Ali received a text from the police on Tuesday morning that said: 'Unfortunately, no suspects have been identified and all lines of enquiry have been exhausted.'

The social activist said she was 'not a fan' of how the force was run by Mr Khan after her case was dropped.

Nimco Ali (pictured) has blamed 'Sadiq Khan's London' after the Metropolitan Police dropped an investigation into a stolen item that was fitted with a tracker

Ms Ali lived with the Johnsons at Downing Street during the lockdown in Decmber 2020 to help care for their eldest son, Wilfred, who is also her godson. Pictured: Ms Ali with Carrie Johnson

The social activist said she was 'not a fan' of how the force was run by Mr Khan (pictured) after her case was dropped

She told The Telegraph: 'It's something that is happening all the time with the Met. They didn't even have a suspect. I'm going to speak to them. I'm not a fan of Sadiq Khan's London.'

Mr Khan has been accused of failing Londoners after it emerged in January that more than 1,000 people have been killed since he became mayor. The capital has also gained a reputation as 'Lawless London' due to frequent brawls and robberies.

Ms Ali also posted a screenshot of the message that she was sent by the Met on Twitter and wrote: 'The Met Police is an absolute joke. You have the man who took my stuff on CCTV.

'I offered to give the officer the address that my AirTag was showing up at. You never called me back even after I called countless times with the information. And now you send me this.'

The Met Police has been contacted for comment.

Ms Ali advised Mr Johnson's government on tackling violence against women and girls between 2020 and 2022.

She lived with the Johnsons at Downing Street during the lockdown in December 2020 to help care for their eldest son, Wilfred, who is also her godson.

Ms Ali was pictured carrying Wilfred out of the Number 10 gates to meet his newborn sister Romy in 2021.

Ms Ali also posted a screenshot of the message that she was sent by the Met on Twitter and wrote: 'The Met Police is an absolute joke'

She stepped down from her role in December 2022 - three months after Mr Johnson resigned as PM - because she did not want to continue under the then Home Secretary Suella Braverman.

At the time, she said: 'I think the fair upsum is that I wouldn't feel comfortable.

'I think I can definitely say that I wouldn't feel comfortable in serving under Suella or actually saying that she is somebody that we probably have the same feminist ideals as.'

She added: 'I'm just saying that Suella and I are on completely different planets when it comes to the rights of women and girls, and also the way that we talk about ethnic minorities, and specifically people like me who are from a refugee background.'

Ms Ali is the current CEO of The Five Foundation and a prominent campaigner against female genital mutilation (FGM).

She was awarded an OBE in 2019 in recognition for her campaigning against FGM and gender inequality.

A spokesperson for the Met Police said: 'We are aware of a post on social media about the closure of an investigation following an allegation of theft which was reported to the police.

'This follows an incident where a set of Airpods were reported stolen from a shop in Regents Park Road, NW1 on the morning of 15 January.

'During the course of the investigation, a number of enquiries were carried out by the officers, including speaking to the shop in question in order to retrieve CCTV footage. There were challenges in arranging the sharing of the CCTV footage with officers which led to the case being closed.

'Device tracking can often be helpful for officers when tracking down stolen items. However, the technology does have limitations and is not always accurate. The pinging of a device to a location on its own does not give officers the powers to enter an address for an offence of this level.

'Having reviewed the crime report, this case has been reopened and we will make contact with the victim to establish if there are further lines of enquiry that can be pursued.

'Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or X @MetCC and quote CAD2120/15Jan.'
An Archdeacon has resigned after admitting to having an 'inappropriate relationship' with a woman while he had claimed to be suffering from 'spiritual exhaustion'.

Paul Thomas, the Archdeacon of Salop, has resigned from his post and been banned from ministry for three years, the Diocese of Lichfield revealed.

Archdeacon Thomas had stepped away from his duties last September while the diocese investigated a complaint.

The probe revealed he had engaged in the 'brief, consensual but inappropriate relationship' during 2022 and early 2023 while he was reportedly experiencing 'post-Covid depression and spiritual exhaustion'.

Dr Michael Ipgrave, the Bishop of Lichfield, said he is 'deeply grieved' by the situation, but reiterated that the diocese expects the 'highest standards of personal and professional conduct from our clergy'.

Paul Thomas, the Archdeacon of Salop, has resigned from his post and been banned from ministry for three years, the Diocese of Lichfield revealed

Dr Michael Ipgrave, the Bishop of Lichfield, said he is 'deeply grieved' by the situation, but reiterated that the diocese expects the 'highest standards of personal and professional conduct from our clergy'. Pictured: An aerial view of Lichfield

The probe revealed that Mr Thomas had engaged in the 'brief, consensual but inappropriate relationship' during 2022 and early 2023 while he was reportedly experiencing 'post-Covid depression and spiritual exhaustion'

Mr Thomas became Archdeacon of Salop in 2011, but his role has been carried out by acting archdeacons since the investigation was launched last year.

The probe was triggered after a complaint was made against him under the Clergy Discipline Measure.

The investigation, overseen by the Bishop of Shrewsbury Sarah Bullock, has now concluded, Dr Ipgrave revealed over the weekend, adding that Mr Thomas had admitted to the relationship.

'In the Diocese of Lichfield, we expect the highest standards of personal and professional conduct from our clergy,' said Dr Ipgrave.

The Bishop also disclosed that Mr Thomas 'consented' to the penalty of 'resignation as Archdeacon of Salop and a prohibition from ministry for three years'.

Dr Ipgrave added: 'I am deeply grieved that Paul's long service in ministry in this Diocese, which I know has been appreciated over the years by many people, including me, has been marred in this way.'

Mr Thomas will not return as the Archdeacon of Salop. Rev Jo Farnworth and Rev Mary Thomas will serve as acting archdeacons in the district until a permanent replacement is found.
A young Aussie has issued a brutal warning after she was diagnosed with melanoma aged just 20.

Teish Ward, who lives in Melbourne, underwent surgery in 2019 to remove the skin cancer and 11 lymph modes to try and cure her of the disease.

Ms Ward also spent a year and a half receiving chemotherapy and immunotherapy and is now warning others to protect themselves when they are at the beach with friends.

'You always think it will never happen to you but it can  and it did to me,' she told Yahoo.

Ms Ward said she spent most of her teenage years hanging out at the beach 'baking in the sun' with her girlfriends.

Teish Ward (pictured), who was diagnosed with melanoma at the age of 20, has issued an urgent warning to Aussies to stop 'baking in the sun'

'I've grown up along the beach my whole life as well so, while I definitely wore a hat and wore sunscreen, I did also tan and lie in the sun,' she said.

The years spent soaking up the rays, however, took a toll on Ms Ward's skin.

It was her older sister Georgia who first noticed a freckle on the then 20-year-old's back.

The small lump that had risen on her skin would bleed every time Ms Ward scratched the spot.

She decided to get her doctor to have a look at it a few days later, and soon received the dreaded news she had melanoma.

The doctor said Ms Ward would need to undergo surgery to have the disease removed from her body.

Despite the diagnosis, Ms Ward was quick to dismiss the seriousness of the illness and said she would be fine once surgeons cut the mole out.

Ms Ward was admitted to Alfred Hospital just four days later and had the cancerous tissue removed from her back.

Surgeons also took out 11 lymph nodes (which are small lumps of tissue that fight infection) that had also become cancerous.

Five lymph modes were removed from one of Ms Ward's armpits and six were removed from the other.

Ms Ward (pictured) went through a gruelling surgery and received several rounds of chemotherapy after the cancer had advanced

After the surgery, however, clinicians informed her a week later that the cancer had advanced but remained confident the disease could be completely cured.

'We walked into the room and there was a big team of people and they told us, 'This is a really unfortunate case [and] it has actually spread. It's stage 3C melanoma,' Ms Ward said.

The advanced diagnosis meant Ms Ward had go through chemotherapy and immunotherapy, while having PET and MRI scans every six months.

Ms Ward finished up her chemotherapy in 2020 and decided to help others to become more aware about the causes of skin cancer and the harmful effects of exposing their skin to the sun.

Along with Georgia, Ms Ward founded GT Skin in 2021 and launched fake tan products, as an alternative to laying in the sun at the beach.

Still recovering from her surgery, Ms Ward will receive her final test results from her ongoing treatment in August.

Melanoma is the third most common form of cancer in Australia with one in 17 Aussies diagnosed with the disease.

More than 18,200 Aussies were diagnosed with melanoma in 2023 alone.
The UK would run out of ammunition and equipment in less than two months in a war against Putin's Russia, a defence chief has admitted.

Tory defence committee member Mark Francois said: 'We couldn't fight (Vladimir) Putin for more than a couple of months in a full-on shooting war because we don't have the ammunition and the reserves of equipment to do it, that's true isn't it?'

The deputy chief of defence staff, Lt Gen Sir Rob Macgowan, acknowledged that was true, although Mr Shapps pointed out that any such conflict would be fought alongside Nato allies who could collectively outgun Russia, rather than by the UK alone.

Mr Shapps said: 'For people watching, and hearing that the UK isn't ready for war exclusively with Russia, it's important to understand that because we are in Nato and (mutual defence agreement) Article 5 exists, we would never be in that situation.'

Defence spending is expected to be around 2.3 per cent of GDP next year, but will only reach 2.5 per cent 'when the conditions allow', Mr Sunak told the Liaison Committee.

The deputy chief of defence staff, Lt Gen Sir Rob Macgowan (pictured), acknowledged that the UK couldn't fight Putin for more than a few months

Tory defence committee member Mark Francois (picytured) said: 'We couldn't fight (Vladimir) Putin for more than a couple of months in a full-on shooting war because we don't have the ammunition and the reserves of equipment to do it, that's true isn't it?'

At the Defence Committee, Mr Shapps said 'of course I made representations' for more money in March's Budget, adding: 'What kind of Secretary of State wouldn't?'

He told MPs: 'We are committed to going to 2.5 per cent. Of course, as Secretary State for Defence, I argued that we should do that as possible.'

The military needs more money for munitions and anti-missile systems, a senior officer warned as Rishi Sunak refused to say when defence spending would meet his target.

The Government is committed to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product, a measure of the size of the economy, but the Prime Minister has declined to say when he would meet that aspiration.

The Government is committed to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product (File image)

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps (pictured) told MPs he had lobbied Mr Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt for more cash in the Budget, but failed to secure an increase

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps told MPs he had lobbied Mr Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt for more cash in the Budget, but failed to secure an increase.

And deputy chief of the defence staff Lieutenant General Sir Rob Magowan said he would have to manage the 'operational risk' that came with not having the resources he would like.

Appearing before MPs at the Commons Defence Committee, the senior Royal Marines officer said: 'We've been very clear that the money the amount of money we're spending on munitions at the moment ... which is significant, does not meet, in all areas, the threats that we face.

'We've been clear that we need to spend more money, above the programme of record, on what we call integrated air missile defence.'

He added: 'We have made it clear, if we were given additional money, what we would spend money on but we work within the money we've got and we carry the operational risk accordingly.'

Yet he insisted the UK was 'ready for war' although he acknowledged it was not prepared for an enduring war against Russia.
British Gas has been slammed for calling customers in the middle of the night for feedback on the energy provider's performance, leaving one customer fearing her mother had died.

Customers were rudely awakened in the early hours of the morning after a technical glitch which rang customers with an automated message, asking: 'This is British Gas, we want to conduct a survey asking: how did we do?'

One customer was left shaken when her phone rang at 3.15am, fearing that it was a call from her elderly mother's care home to say that he had died, according to The Telegraph.

Rebecca Ringshall, 63, said that she had notified the care home to call her as soon as her 92-year-old mother was 'starting to fade', to make sure that both she and her brother could be at her bedside in time.

'So, when the phone rang, I did fear the worst for a couple of seconds,' she told The Telegraph.

Customers were rudely awakened in the early hours of the morning by a call from British Gas, after a technical glitch, which rang customers with an automated survey

She added: 'I thought they might say something like "your mother has passed away in her sleep". When I realized it was British Gas, I just couldn't believe it.'

Ms Ringshall said that she was 'thoroughly hacked off' by the call and just put the phone down after realising it was the energy provider calling with an automated survey.

After her stepdaughter raised a complaint on social media, British Gas got in touch with an 'over the top' response, which Ms Ringshall slammed as 'insincere'.

A spokesperson told the family: 'As someone who has been in a similar situation to you in the past, I can completely understand the panic you've mentioned and my heart goes out to you with this'.

Ms Ringshall said that was already frustrated by the energy provider, after spending 'all day' with British Gas the previous Tuesday after the the firm took 30 in overpayment when she closed her mother's account.

Despite British Gas conceding that she was owed the money back, it has been three weeks since Ms Ringshall chased the company, and she has still not received the refund.

The company apologised, by saying: 'We completely understand that a phone calling the middle of the night creates worry,' adding that the issue was resolved as soon as it was flagged.

According to The Telegraph, British Gas said that a 'small number' of customers had been affected by the blunder, but did not disclose how many.

The boss of British Gas owner Centrica Chris O'Shea saw his pay soar by close to 4 million last year amid the UK's cost of energy crisis

However, other social media users reported that they had also received a call at the crack of dawn, with some saying they was rung at four in the morning.

This comes as British Gas was urged by Which? to improve its customer support, after complaints of 'shoddy' service, including one customer who told the consumer rights organisation, that 'she spent 43 hours on the phone and sent 24 emails trying to fix a billing issue for more than than a year'.

British Gas told Which?: 'We're investing more than 50m in customer service  this includes hiring 700 more UK-based contact centre staff at the end of last year and introducing longer call centre opening times.

'We're also helping our most vulnerable customers through our sector leading 140m customer support package.'

The boss of British Gas owner Centrica saw his pay soar by close to 4 million last year amid the UK's cost of energy crisis.

Chris O'Shea, who earlier this year said there is 'no point' trying to justify his salary, was handed a 8.2 million pay packet in 2023, up from 4.5 million the year before, according to the company's annual report released on Tuesday.

That includes a 810,000 salary, around 1.4 million in annual bonuses and 5.9 million in longer-term bonuses based on the company's share price performance.

MailOnline has approached British Gas for comment.

** Had a 3am call from British Gas? Please email: mark.duell@mailonline.co.uk **
The Texas law stirred up chaos from law enforcement officials and politicians last week when it briefly went into effect. Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspap/Houston Chronicle via Getty Imag

At nearly the stroke of midnight Tuesday night, a federal appeals court released its highly anticipated decision on the controversial immigration law SB4.

In a 2-1 ruling, the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals decided to block SB4 from going into effect once again while the case waits to enter merits arguments April 3. The decision marks yet another judicial roadblock after a period of "whiplash" last week in which SB4 briefly went into effect before going on hold.

Judges Priscilla Richman and Irma Ramirez voted to block the law's stay pending appeal, ruling that the federal government has supreme power over immigration issues, and the state of Texas had not proven to have exhausted its options for collaboration with the branch. Judge Andrew Oldham dissented, arguing that the case dealt too much in hypotheticals, and an informed ruling could only come from seeing the law go into effect.

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The decision lays the groundwork for a final ruling on the law early next month, and it does not seem likely the judges will rule in Texas' favor. On the ground, law enforcement officials have raised questions as to how SB4, which grants state law enforcement the power to arrest anyone suspected of entering the country illegally, will actually be enforced. While some city departments have claimed they do not have the resources to add immigration to their list of responsibilities, the Houston Police Department has declined to comment on the matter.

In the wake of the judicial back-and-forth, Gov. Greg Abbott received a letter signed by 100 county sheriffs swearing their allegiance to Texas' immigration efforts. Harris County was not included in the letter, according to photos obtained by KERA News' Lauren McGaughy.

The ACLU of Texas, who had appealed the law on behalf of El Paso and two immigrant rights organizations, celebrated the decision Wednesday morning.

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Barclays has apologised after a glitch caused a meltdown, leaving customers locked out of their mobile banking accounts.

The major bank added that it was 'working to fix' the error which saw some users unable to receive wages and pay bills.

The issue, which was first reported at around 9.15pm on Tuesday, affected Barclays's online transaction system and its telephone banking service, BBC News reported.

The bank later confirmed, in an update on X, formerly Twitter, that it had sorted out the errors on its app and its online banking system.

Card transactions and cash withdrawals were not affected by the meltdown, according to Barclays.

Barclays has apologised after a glitch caused a meltdown, leaving customers locked out of their mobile banking accounts (Stock Photo)

The issue, which was first reported at around 9.15pm on Tuesday, affected Barclays's online transaction system and its telephone banking service (Stock Photo)

Furious customers took to social media on Tuesday evening to complain about bank transfers not being processed into or out of their accounts.

One user said: 'I'm trying to transfer money across to pay bills...brilliant.'

Another responded, saying: 'Not just that, wages aren't going into folks' banks accounts.'

Many customers were able to get into their account but unable to receive or send cash.

One angry online banker posted: 'I can log in but my money I've transferred is missing. Don't know [whether] to laugh or cry.'

Another added: 'Absolutely fuming with @BarclaysUKHelp. My money was due in, just gone midnight and it's not cleared. I have bills I need to pay ASAP.'

Others remarked that this was not the first issue with the banking giant in recent weeks.

Furious customers took to social media on Tuesday evening to complain about bank transfers not being processed into or out of their accounts

One incensed user said: 'Always problems with the Barclays app lately, very frustrating.'

And another summarised, posting: 'Barclays Bank is so s*** I need to leave them.'

Barclays, which boasts around 20 million customers in the UK and has previously claimed to handle more than 50 million payments every month, apologised to individual users making complaints on social media.

MailOnline has approached Barclays for comment.

This comes after a string of technical issues at major companies in recent days.

Last Wednesday a warning was issued to high street chains to update their payment systems after Greggs stores across the UK faced technical problems preventing them from accepting card payments, forcing some to close.

Tesco and Sainsbury's were both hit by an IT meltdown on March 16 that impacted home deliveries and stopped customers from using contactless payment at the tills.

Last Wednesday a warning was issued to high street chains to update their payment systems after Greggs stores across the UK faced technical problems preventing them from accepting card payments, forcing some to close (pictured: a closed Greggs in central London)

Tesco was hit by an IT meltdown on March 16 that impacted home deliveries and stopped customers from using contactless payment at the tills (pictured: shoppers queueing to withdraw cash at a London Tesco)

Sainsbury's also cancelled swathes of deliveries due to the 'technical issue' while some stores shut down dozens of counters causing chaos on a busy Saturday (pictured: shoppers at a Sainsbury's in Lyons Farm, Worhtington)

And just a day earlier McDonald's suffered a digital outage, leaving hungry customers unable to order food (Stock Photo)

Both retail giants cancelled swathes of deliveries due to the 'technical issue' while some stores shut down dozens of counters causing chaos on a busy Saturday.

And just a day earlier McDonald's suffered a digital outage, leaving hungry customers unable to order food.

Tesco, Sainsbury's and McDonald's all lost millions of pounds over the course of the technical issues.
Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil has slammed the Coalition for delaying a detainee law that could ban some foreign visitors from Australia - after Anthony Albanese's government tried and failed to rush it through Parliament today.

The proposed laws could ban visitors from several foreign countries - including Zimbabwe, South Sudan, Iran, Iraq and Russia - in a bid to force their governments to take back citizens who seek asylum in Australia but are rejected.

Ms O'Neil was visibly angry on Wednesday when the Coalition sided with the Greens in the Senate to delay the passage of this bill and shunt it over to Senate inquiry. That means the legislation may not pass for months.

Ms O'Neil said: 'We're very disappointed the Liberals have stymied our efforts. The reason that we need it is we seek to run an orderly migration system in this country.

'Because of 10 years of wilful neglect, we have an immigration system that... is fundamentally broken.'

Ms O'Neil accused the Coalition of 'playing politics' with the matter.

Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil has slammed the Coalition for delaying a detainee law that the government has tried to rush through parliament this week

Tourists from at least five countries could be banned from travelling to Australia if Labor's tough new proposed migration laws pass Parliament. It's possible more would follow

It comes on the same day allegations were made that a senior public servant was seen leaving Ms O'Neil's office in tears, after a separate development related to the NZYQ case earlier this year.

Sky News revealed that Home Affairs Secretary Stephanie Foster was summoned to Ms O'Neil's office following a Senate hearing back in February. During that hearing, Ms Foster tabled a document that detailed the criminal records of detainees freed into the community.

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According to Sky, Ms Foster was then subjected to a 'robust discussion' and was seen leaving Ms O'Neil's office 'visibly upset after the Minister tore strips off her', sources said.

Ms O'Neil was peppered with questions about her alleged treatment of Ms Foster from Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley during Question Time on Wednesday.

Asked first whether the altercation took place, and then again if she apologised over it, Ms O'Neil said: 'I work very closely with the secretary of my department.'

Over the course of the hour, Ms O'Neil provided the same answer to seven separate questions about the altercation, refusing each time to confirm what happened behind closed doors.

Ms O'Neil and Immigration Minister Andrew Giles were said to be furious after Ms Foster's document revealed that seven of the 149 asylum seekers released into the community had murder or attempted murder convictions, 37 were sexual offenders and 72 were violent offenders charged with kidnapping or assault offences.

A further 16 were convicted of domestic violence or stalking, while 13 had serious drug offences on their rap sheets.

Both Ms O'Neil and Immigration Minister Andrew Giles held a press conference to air their disappointment on Wednesday

Ms O'Neil was visibly angry on Wednesday as she held a press conference hours after the Coalition sided with the Greens in the Senate to delay the passage of the bill

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the duo had hoped Ms Foster would only provide verbal answers to the questions in the afternoon session of the February 12 Senate inquiry.

Instead, the document was tabled in the morning, giving the Coalition further ammunition and sparking headlines across the media.

Greens Senator David Shoebridge was asked about the incident today and said he 'has never seen the consistent pressure on public servants to not tell the truth... to hide the truth from Parliament' during his time in federal politics.

'There is a substantial cultural problem in this place where the government thinks it can intimidate and silence senior public servants and prevent the parliament, and through us the public, getting the evidence they need.

'Lets hope this is a lesson,' he said.

It comes on the same day allegations were made that a senior public servant, Home Affairs Secretary Stephanie Foster (pictured), was seen leaving Ms O'Neil's office earlier this year in tears

'Travel ban' law

The legislation proposed by two of Mr Albanese's ministers would give the Immigration Minister the power to single out countries that do not cooperate with Australia's attempts to deport people back to their country of origin.

That could result in citizens of Iran, Iraq, Zimbabwe, Russia and South Sudan being banned from travelling to Australia altogether, even for a holiday - although some exceptions would apply.

The government fears that an upcoming High Court hearing, set down for April 17, could lead to the court expanding further on its controversial NZYQ decision, leading to up to 170 further detainees walking free.

The new High Court case relates to an Iranian citizen known as ASF17, who refuses to go back to Iran because as a bisexual man he could face the death penalty.

Labor's proposed laws would also introduce a jail sentence of up to five years for failed asylum seekers who refuse to cooperate with their deportation.

But the bill will not pass without a fight, with the Coalition teaming up with the Greens in the Senate on Wednesday morning to refer the proposal to a formal Senate inquiry.

This could take months.

Greens Senator David Shoebridge proposed the inquiry report come back in June, but Coalition Home Affairs spokesperson James Paterson said earlier in the day they intend to have a report finalised before parliament returns in mid-May.

Mr Paterson said if the government could prove the urgent need for the passage of this legislation, the Coalition would be prepared to return to parliament in April to reconsider the matter.

'In the absence of a genuine, demonstrable urgent need... our intention is for it to go through due process,' Mr Paterson said.
Horrifying new details have emerged about how one man saved his mate's life in an alleged double stabbing in one of Sydney's wealthiest suburb .

Lazarus Briggs, 28, was allegedly stabbed 10 times, perforating his bowel and lower intestine, as he waited for an Uber to take him home just before 2am on Sunday.

One alleged stab wound pierced his bicep artery and sent blood spraying onto the street outside Matthew Harper's parents' $3million home in North Turramurra on Sydney's upper north shore.

Mr Harper, 31, rushed to Lazarus's aid, stemming the spurting blood with a tourniquet, after Jess William Ratcliff had allegedly attacked him with a knife taken from the Harper family house kitchen.

Ratcliff, 30, then allegedly stabbed Mr Harper in the leg and Mr Briggs collapsed, bleeding out from alleged knife wounds to his back, chest and arm.

Matthew Harper (pictured) ran to the aid of his mate Lazarus when the 28-year-old tradie was allegedly stabbed 10 times in North Turramurra on Sunday morning

Alleged stabbing victim Lazarus Briggs (above, skydiving) was hospitalised with 10 stab wounds, including suffering a perforated bowel, lower intestine and the artery in his bicep

Emergency services were called to the home at Somerset Avenue near the corner of Stephanie Place after reports two men had been stabbed.

The incident is alleged to have blown up after Mr Briggs, from Sydney's inner west, became involved in a argument with the accused knifeman before turning to leave.

It is alleged Ratcliff then ran into the kitchen and grabbed a kitchen knife before emerging to allegedly stab Mr Briggs in the back.

Mr Briggs then turned around before he was then allegedly stabbed in the chest and then the bicep.

Tradie Lazarus Briggs, 28, was allegedly stabbed multiple times, with blood spurting from an arm wound at the grisly scene

Paramedics treated Mr Harper and Mr Briggs at the scene before they were both taken to Royal North Shore Hospital.

Around 2.30am on Sunday, police arrested Ratcliff, who had sustained facial injuries, and he was taken to hospital under police guard before being taken to Chatswood Police Station.

Police charged Ratcliff with reckless wounding, wounding a person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and affray.

Matthew Harper was also allegedly stabbed in the leg by 30-year-old party guest Jess William Ratcliff around 2am after a house party at Harper's parents home in North Turramurra

Neighbours said the party at the Harper family home had raged into the night before screams rang out around 2am.

Mr Briggs and other guests had attended the Wests Tigers match against Cronulla Sharks in an NRL clash at Leichhardt Oval on Saturday afternoon before travelling to North Turramurra.

He has told friends he was not drinking that night because he was on medication.

When police and paramedics were called to the scene, they found a knife and a large amount of blood on the sandstone landscaping outside the Harper family home.

A knife, allegedly taken from the kitchen of the family home, lies streaked with blood in the street in the early house of Sunday morning after police and paramedics were called

Neighbours said the party at the $3million home owned by Mr Harper's parents (pictured) raged into the night before screams rang out about 2am on Sunday.

Ratcliff fronted Hornsby Local Court on Monday before being refused bail.

Detectives are continuing their investigations into the incident.

Anyone with information is urged to call Ku-ring-gai police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The search for a two-year-old girl who vanished from her daycare has entered its second day.

Bailey Wolf was last seen at her daycare centre on Central Road in Miranda, south-east Sydney, about 9am on Tuesday.

It's understood she may be with her father, 46-year-old Casey Wolf, and travelling in a 2013 black Ford Territory SUV with the New South Wales registration EMS04N.

NSW Police believe the pair were seen in the area of a shopping centre on Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park, about 9.50am on Wednesday.

They are known to frequent Cronulla, Caringbah, Miranda, Gymea, Sutherland, Engadine, Ryde, Macquarie Park and Wollongong.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate missing toddler Bailey Wolf (pictured), aged two

Police and family hold serious concerns for Bailey's welfare due to her young age.

She is described as being of Caucasian appearance, of a small build with brown curly hair and was last seen wearing a pink shirt.

Casey is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 180cm tall, of a medium build, brown hair and green eyes.

He was last seen wearing a green shirt, black pants, black shoes and glasses.

Anyone with information into his whereabouts is urged to call Sutherland Shire Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The 21-year-old appeared bashed up in his Oklahoma mugshot after attempting to flee police in his vehicle and crashing into a power pole, causing an outage

A young man was arrested after he allegedly attempted to steal a pair of Balenciaga shoes from a woman who had been selling them on a marketplace app.

Authorities in Oklahoma City said a woman had listed her designer footwear on the app Offer Up when she was contacted by someone with the username 'Turbo.'

Turbo, identified by police as 21-year-old Taber Carter, reportedly made his way to a local T-Mobile store after first agreeing to meet the seller at a 7-Eleven, to which he didn't show up.

Police say Carter met the victim, who was with her mother, at his car to make the exchange, which was when the young man pulled out a black 'Glock-like' pistol and pointed it at the woman's head.

Taber 'Turbo' Carter, 21, appears bruised and scraped up following a police chase that ended in car crash after he was accused of pulling a gun on a woman from whom he was meant to be purchasing a pair of designer shoes

Staff Sergeant Dillon Quirk told a local outlet: 'The victim indicated she was there to sell shoes to the suspect, during that exchange, the suspect pulled out a firearm and demanded the property from the victim.'

The seller said she handed the shoes to Carter but was able to snatch one back from him before he drove away.

A pair of Balenciaga shoes can range in price from anywhere between hundreds to thousands dollars.

The gun-wielding thief attempted to demand the other shoe, but the woman told him she'd already locked it inside her car, according to the police report.

Carter drove away and was reportedly found passed out in his car several hours later by police who were called regarding a welfare check.

A police chase ensued when Carter attempted to flee the scene in his vehicle.

During the chase, the 21-year-old crashed into a power pole, which caused a local power outage.

The crash reportedly also caused a small grass fire that was quickly extinguished by an emergency fire crew.

He was eventually taken into police custody and booked on charges of endangering others while eluding a police officer, as well as robbery or attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon.

In his mugshot, the young man appears with a swollen-shut black-eye, and cuts and scrapes all across the right side of his forehead - possibly from the crash into the power pole.

A pair of Balenciaga shoes can range in price from anywhere between a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Carter had agreed to buy a pair from a woman via a marketplace app called Offer Up

He is currently being held without bond.

Oklahoma City Police have warned the public that anyone who is meeting up with a prospective buyer to sell an item should do it in a public place with lots of cameras.

An on-the-nose suggestion is the parking lot of a local police station.
Alice Springs youths will be subjected to a 14-day curfew in an attempt to curb crime and violence on the streets - after terrified locals were forced to cower in a pub while a mob armed with an axe tried to smash their way inside.

Northern Territory Chief Minister Eva Lawler held a snap press conference on Wednesday afternoon announcing the curfew would kick in from 6pm this evening.

An additional 58 police will be deployed to the region in an attempt to keep law and order, and to redirect youths back to their houses if they're caught on the streets in the evening.

As the Easter long weekend approaches and for the next two weeks, youths under 18 must be in their homes between the hours of 6pm and 6am as an 'emergency situation' is declared.

'It's going to be difficult for us to manage a curfew but I think the people of Alice Springs expect their government to step up and that's what we're doing,' she said.

'Kids are not safe on the streets, and if they are not safe at home they will be taken somewhere else.'

Ms Lawler herself will travel to the embattled region on Thursday morning, alongside police chief Michael Murphy.

It comes amid heightened tensions in the community following the death of an 18-year-old boy last week.

The tragedy has sparked family feuds which have spilled onto the streets.

One Alice Springs resident made an emotional plea for the Prime Minister to intervene after a vengeful mob rampaged down the town's main street and attacked a pub with locals barricaded inside fearing for their lives.

Videos taken from inside and outside the Todd Tavern on Tuesday afternoon show the group of around 70 Indigenous people attacking the windows and doors with rocks, bricks and sometimes their bare feet as they launch flying kicks.

From the inside, a local man holds the glass doors closed with his foot as frenzied attempts are made by Indigenous youth to kick in the glass, which cracks but does not shatter.

Terrifying footage has emerged of a rampaging mob attacking an Alice Springs pub as locals barricade themselves inside

In another video large rocks are hurled at the windows and hooded attackers can be seen menacingly carrying crow bars.

Local baker Darren Clark, who founded the Action for Alice, on Wednesday morning called on Anthony Albanese to bring the area under federal control echoing similar pleas from NT LNP Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and the town's mayor.

Asked by Sydney radio station talkback host Ben Fordham what he would like to say to Mr Albanese after the horrifying scenes, Mr Clark's voice wavered with barely controlled emotion.

'Just putting money on table doesn't fix this mate,' Mr Clark said.

'You've got to come and see for yourself. You've got to come and talk to the locals to see what we are witnessing.

'The messages I have got from people in this town overnight will break your bloody heart PM.

'Come up here and talk to your fellow Australians and help this town. Just help us.'

Mr Clark told Fordham he didn't know what to say any more because the town is 'under siege'.

'When is enough is enough?' he said.

'They are ruining our town. They have let it go. They are trusting people up here to fix this problem, they haven't got a clue buddy.

'We've tried to tell them but they can't fix this problem.

'They have let it go too far, they've got the wrong people looking into this. They aren't doing their jobs, they can't do their jobs.

'We need federal intervention up here.'

The rampaging mob of around 70 people took over one of the main roads of Alice Springs as they attacked the hotel

Inside the Todd Tavern a man was forced to hold the glass doors shut with his foot as attackers launched themselves at them

Mr Clark said the Northern Territory was 'too immature to govern ourselves'.

'Our poor police are run off their feet, they are exhausted,' he said.

The mob who were filmed attacking the hotel had 'been through the whole town before that', according to Mr Clark.

'They had smashed windows throughout the whole town.

'People were locking down, putting roller shutters down. People were hiding, they smashed the cars.

'They had crowbars, axes running through the streets, it's just insane.

'It's the worst event here most of us have seen and you know I have seen a hell of a lot over the past four years.'

Mr Clark believed the situation had escalated overnight in one of the town camps where Indigenous people were mourning a 'young fellow who died in a stolen car a few weeks back'.

'But that turned into payback, they are looking for the driver of the car looking for payback,' Mr Clark said

'We have had trouble last week with the bottle shops here - just absolute chaos.'

Alice Springs Mayor Matt Paterson has also called for the federal government to take control of the Northern Territory.

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has called for federal riot squads or even the army to be deployed to return order to the centre of the Northern Territory

Mr Preston called the violence and anarchy seen in Alice Springs over recent days 'a national embarrassment'.

'It may sound dramatic, but I've called [for] the federal government to step in here. They need to overrule the territory government and step in because this is dangerous, it's scary,' Mr Preston told the ABC.

'That is absolute senseless destruction in our town, and it's frightening,' he said.

'Who knows what would have happened if they had have gotten to Todd Tavern.'

He confirmed Mr Clark's account that the rampaging mob had descended on the town after Tuesday's funeral and accompanying ceremonies for a who died when an allegedly stolen car crashed two weeks ago.

On March 8, an 18-year-old died after hanging out of the window of the vehicle as it rolled over in Alice Springs CBD.

Northern Territory Police Commissioner Michael Murphy said the group that invaded the town was from the Utopia region, northwest of Alice Springs.

NT Police Acting Assistant Commissioner James Gray-Spence said two arrests had been made and more than 50 weapons had been seized on Tuesday across several incidents.

An estimated $30,000 worth of damage was done to the Todd Tavern in the violent outbreak.

NT Acting Commissioner Gray-Spence said police officers had been attacked when they responded to the incident at the pub.

'We had rocks thrown at our vehicle at the same time while we were restoring order as a result of our attendance,' he said.

Cars and other shopfront windows throughout Alice Springs were also smashed up during the riot

Northern Territory Chief Minister Eva Lawler believes AFP officers 'probably dont have the skill set to be managing violent Aboriginal people'

Senator Price has called on the Northern Territory government to allow the AFP riot officers or even Australian Defence Force personnel to be deployed to rein in the anarchy.

'It's up to the NT government to determine what is needed whether it is the riot squad or the ADF,' Senator Price told Sky News.

'But drastic measures need to be taken.'

The violence came a day after a 16-year-old girl was allegedly bashed by a group of other girls, with the footage being shared widely on social media.

In Parliament Opposition Leader Peter Dutton asked Mr Albanese if he was going to visit Alice Springs again in light of the recent incidents.

Mr Albanese has made two brief visits to Alice Springs, the first one in response to the growing crime problem, where he pledged federal support to shore up law order.

The Prime Minister said he had taken the entire cabinet to the Northern Territory 'just last week'.

'We had ministers in Alice Springs, in Catherine, in remote Northern Territory as well and I visited a remote community to commit to $4 billion, $4 billion to fix housing in remote communities,' he said.
A 911 call reveals the heartbreaking moment that missing University of Missouri student Riley Strain was found dead in a river, two weeks after his disappearance gripped the country.

Last Friday, the 22-year-old was pulled from the Cumberland River in Nashville after an exhaustive search.

He was found by a worker for a local building materials company that unloads barges at the river.

The man, clearly shaken, begins to tell the 911 operator what he's seen in newly-released audio.

'My company works on the river. I have just found a, uh, dead body' before adding, 'I believe it to be Riley.'

A 911 call reveals the heartbreaking moment that missing University of Missouri student Riley Strain was found dead in a river, two weeks after his disappearance gripped the country

The dispatcher then asks him what the corpse looks like.

'It's definitely a person here. Black shirt, kind of white, muddy looking on the front,' the unidentified worker says. 'It's face down in the water. Caucasian.'

'He's fully submerged besides his back sticking out of the water,' the worker continued.

'I had to move a log off of the head to confirm it was a body,' he adds.

This goes along with what Police Chief John Drake told reporters about the finding of Riley's body at a press conference last Friday.

'As they were removing an object from the river, they noticed what appeared to be Riley Strain pop up.

'The medical examiners officer reviewed the body and confirmed that it is Riley Strain.

'The family have been contacted, there are no signs of foul play at this time according to the examination here at the riverbank.

Last Friday, the 22-year-old was pulled from the Cumberland River in Nashville after an exhaustive search

He was found by a worker for a local building materials company that unloads barges at the river

The caller worked with a company called Holcin's located right near the river when he called

'Mr. Strain still had the shirt on that he was wearing, still had the watch. I want to say to the family my heart and prayers go out to you all for this very unfortunate and tragic incident.'

The Delta Chi fraternity member was in Tennessee on a trip for their annual spring formal when he was kicked out of the bar just after 9:30 p.m.

Strain had told his friends that he would meet them back at their hotel, but was nowhere to be seen when the group returned from their night out.

His friends tried contacting him, but received no response and they reported Strain as missing as they failed to locate him via his Snapchat location.

Surveillance footage collected by police from Downtown Smoke & Vape Shop on Church Street showed Strain near the intersection of 2nd Avenue and Church Street.

The seemingly intoxicated student was wearing a two-toned black and brown shirt and blue jeans and took a tumble, then quickly got back up and continued down the street.

Another camera caught near the intersection of Gay Street and 1st Avenue North just before 10pm taking large strides with his head down as he stumbled through the streets.

The student had reportedly FaceTimed his mom Michelle Whiteid that evening, and she said nothing seemed out of the ordinary.

Strain, 22, was last seen on March 8 at Luke's 32 Bridge Food + Drink on Broadway, according to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department

Officers had been scouring the Cumberland River and a dam in the search for Strain

Authorities said that no foul play-related trauma was observed on Strain, who was last seen on March 8

Whiteid spoke through tears at a press conference on Friday evening.

'I just ask that you mommas out there, hug your babies tight tonight please,' she said.

She echoed the words of her husband Chris, Riley's stepfather, and the 22-year-old's father Ryan Gilbert how much they appreciated the support from across the country.

'Please, for me, just hug your babies tight tonight. And again, thank you. Thank you for sharing our story.'

Despite the family's criticism previously, Gilbert thanked the Metro Nashville Police Department for their efforts, as well as the volunteer United Cajun Navy.

'It's just unbelievable what they've done for us,' Gilbert said.

Stepfather Chris thanked the entire Nashville community for their help in trying to find RIley.

'It's been an emotional roller-coaster. We're quite thankful for everything that you've done for our family. The grace that you've given us, it means a lot, more than you'll ever know.'

Michelle Strain Whiteid, Riley Strain's heartbroken mother has broken her silence in a press conference just hours after her 22-year-old son was found dead in a river eight miles from where he vanished in Nashville

Stepfather Chris thanked the entire Nashville community for their help in trying to find RIley

He was grateful to the city, which will be holding a candelight vigil on Gay Street, where Riley was last seen, Friday night.

'To the people of Nashville, I can't thank you enough for the support, the love, the encouragement that you've shown myself and my wife,' Chris said.

'You don't understand how much that meant to us in some of our darkest hours.'
Haunting satellite images show the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge's destruction after being struck by a 105,000 ton shipping container.

The 1.6-mile-long bridge collapsed into the Patapsco River after a cargo ship struck one of its piers in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Aerial images show the Dali container partially covered by the destroyed bridge, as the other parts of the bridge are seen stranded in the river.

Six missing construction workers who fell into the river following the collision are presumed dead after the Coast Guard called off their search on Tuesday evening.

Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said in an update that based on the extended period of time since the bridge collapsed and the freezing water temperatures 'we do not believe that we are going to find any of these individuals still alive'.

Haunting satellite images show the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge's destruction after being struck by a 105,000 ton shipping container

Aerial images show the Dali container partially covered by the destroyed bridge, as the other parts of the bridge are seen stranded in the river

The large bridge seen intact in satellite images take before the deadly crash

Divers are set to return to the water at 6am on Wednesday to resume the search efforts and attempt to locate the missing construction workers' bodies.

'At this point, we do not know where they are,' Col. Roland L. Butler of the Maryland State Police said, 'but we intend to give it our best effort to help these families find closure.'

Footage shows remnants of the bridge can be seen embedded in the bow of the vessel while teams point flashlights around the murky waters as they search for six missing construction workers. Five vehicles are also currently submerged in the river.

Officials said they have spotted three passenger vehicles, a cement truck and a fifth vehicle underwater thanks to infrared and side-scan sonar technology.

Maryland authorities are also using sonar to search for the workers who fell into the 47F water as they were working to repair potholes on the 185-foot bridge when it collapsed.

Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency Tuesday morning following the catastrophic collision, which occurred at about 1.30am.

The ship was 20 minutes into its journey when it slammed into a support column on the bridge.

The Democrat said the ship's crew managed to issue a 'mayday' before it crashed into the bridge, which allowed officials to stop cars from going on the bridge.

Six missing construction workers who fell into the river following the collision are presumed dead after the Coast Guard called off their search on Tuesday evening

Remnants of the bridge can be seen embedded in the bow of the vessel

The ship was 20 minutes into its journey when it slammed into a support column on the bridge

'We're thankful that between the 'mayday' and collapse that-that we had officials who were able to-to begin the stop the flow of traffic so more cars were not up on the bridge,' Moore added.

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld said eight people were on the bridge when it collapsed, and two of them were rescued from the water, with one declining medical treatment and the other being taken to the hospital.

Doctors told DailyMail.com those on the bridge faced an agonizing drop that would feel like 'hitting concrete' and result in major injuries like broken bones and a ruptured heart, with a small chance of survival.

Once in the 47-degree water, hypothermia would kick in, causing hyperventilating, loss of motor control, confusion, and organ failure, starting in just three minutes.

Those in cars would have just two minutes to escape before drowning.

President Joe Biden said on X: 'This morning, I convened senior members of my team for a briefing on the collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge.

'I've directed my Administration to ensure every federal resource is available to assist search and rescue efforts and response to this terrible incident.'

The president announced the government would pay the full cost to replace the bridge and insisted it was an accident.

Six missing construction workers who fell into the river when the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed are presumed dead as the Coast Guard calls of the search

Six missing construction workers who fell into the river when the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed are presumed dead as the Coast Guard calls of the search

Rescue teams searching the Patapsco River in the aftermath of the bridge collapse, leaving vehicles submerged and workers missing

Maryland authorities are using sonar to search for people who fell into the 47F water as they were working to repair potholes on the 185-foot bridge when it collapsed

Engineers have blamed the deadly collapse on a design flaw that is present in tens of thousands of US bridges.

Several experts told DailyMail.com that the Maryland bridge was missing critical protection systems that would have stopped the the nearly 105,000 ton container ship from smashing into the bridge's support.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was built in 1977 and anti-collision devices like fenders or protection cells were not introduced until the 1980s.

Experts said installing fenders would cost at least $3 million, but the collapse means a $15 million per day loss in economic activity and $1.5 million daily in state and local taxes.

Anti-collision devices like fenders or protection cells only became the norm in the 1980s, after a freighter slammed into the Skyway Bridge in Florida, collapsing a portion of it.

More than half of the US's 621,581 bridges were built before 1980, though, according to the National Bridge Inventory.

The Northern Boulevard Bridge across the Flushing River in New York City has such fenders, as do many smaller bridges spanning waterways, like the Route 3 Bridge over the Piankatank River in Virginia, seen below.

And the Delaware memorial Bridge received protection cells in 2023 at a cost of $93 million. These devices are meant to deflect a boat, taking the damage for a bridge.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was a continuous truss bridge, which can fail if it loses one support pillar. Multiple high-profile failures of such bridges have occurred, and thousands remain across waterways throughout the US.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott holds a news conference after a container ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, left, speaks during a news conference as Sen. Chris Van Hollen looks on near the scene

Even with protective structures, though, whether a bridge is safe from a boat strike depends on the size of the boat, and experts said that a large enough boat - like today's massive cargo ships - could take out bridges like the Brooklyn Bridge or the Golden Gate Bridge.

'I believe that there should have been a protection system,' Sherif El-Tawil, professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Michigan, told DailyMail.com.

Nonetheless, he explained that not all protection systems will be up to the task of stopping a more than 100,000-ton ship like the Dali, and sometimes these accidents will simply happen due to human error - or as early reports indicated in this case, power failure.
Greens leader Adam Bandt has been ordered to delete a social media post he made targeting Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek due to concerns it contained misinformation.

Mr Bandt accused Ms Plibersek of 'fast-tracking' environmental crises and making 'dodgy deals' in a Facebook post on Sunday.

The video suggested that Ms Plibersek was boasting in Parliament about fast-tracking approvals for gas projects.

It then cut to harrowing videos from the various bushfire and flood tragedies which have hit Australia in recent years, showing footage of people and animals in distress as a result of the environmental disasters.

Daily Mail Australia understands an MP sought advice from the Serjeant-at-Arms, expressing concerns about the contents of the video.

Greens leader Adam Bandt has been ordered to remove a social media post he made targeting Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek due to concerns it was misinformation

It then cut to harrowing videos from the various bushfire and flood tragedies which have hit Australia in recent years, showing footage of people and animals in distress as a result of the environmental disasters

That MP said in their complaint: 'I'm shocked that a Member of the House has misrepresented parliamentary proceedings.

'The Member has posted a video that I believe is in contravention of the Rules for Media Related Activity in Parliament House and its Precincts.'

According to the media code, photographs and footage of parliamentary proceedings must fairly and accurately represent those proceedings and must not be digitally manipulated.

On March 25, just a day after the video was shared online, the Serjeant-at-Arms wrote to Mr Bandt's office, instructing he remove the video.

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The offending video was still available online on Wednesday morning. It has since been pulled.

Ms Plibersek's speech referenced in the video was actually in response to a question about how the government's approvals process is 'helping to turn Australia into a renewable energy superpower'.

Ms Plibersek said in her answer: 'Since coming to government, we have ticked off more than 45 renewable energy projects, and I have another 128 before me for assessment.'

She made specific reference to approving two wind farms which will generate enough electricity to power a total of 800,000 homes.

'It's not just the renewable energy projects that we're assessing faster; it's all of those projects - it's the housing projects, it's the transport projects, and it's the resources projects.

'We know ... that renewable energy is both cleaner and cheaper.'

She made specific reference to approving two wind farms which will generate enough electricity to power a total of 800,000 homes

But a spokesperson for Mr Bandt told Daily Mail Australia the Minister's reference to 'resources projects' are what drew his ire and prompted the post.

'It is shameful that in a climate crisis, the Environment Minister boasted about approving new fossil fuel projects, and we will continue to hold her to account for her role in fast-tracking new coal and gas,' they said.

'The true environmental disinformation is pretending to care about climate action while approving new coal and gas mines that make the climate crisis worse. Labor are climate con artists, voting with Peter Dutton's climate-denying Liberals to fast-track offshore gas projects, silence First Nations voices and bypass environmental protections, all while pretending to care about climate.

'At the next election, the Greens will be letting the people of Sydney know about every single coal and gas mine Tanya Plibersek has approved as Environment Minister.'

The speech referenced in the video was actually in response to a question about how the approvals process is 'helping to turn Australia into a renewable energy superpower'

The Greens have railed against misinformation and disinformation in Australian politics and media.

They introduced a bill in June 2023 attempting to establish a Royal Commission into Murdoch-owned News Corp outlets after expressing concerns about misinformation.

Senator Sarah Hanson-Young said misinformation is a ''growing threat to our democracy, whether it's spread via large social media platforms or by large multinational media corporations, like the Murdoch media'.

The Greens also called for a 'truth commission' following the defeat of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum, accusing Opposition Leader Peter Dutton of creating 'a corrosive misinformation campaign'.

'Peter Dutton is the master of misinformation, and there's an urgent need now for truth-telling and healing,' Mr Bandt said at the time.

'Peter Dutton sowed fear and division with a Trumpian misinformation campaign.'

Mr Bandt has also been under pressure and accused of double standards over his use of private jets while simultaneously pushing tougher action on climate change.

Mr Bandt accused Ms Plibersek of 'fast-tracking' environmental crises and making 'dodgy deals' in a Facebook post made on Sunday

It was revealed last month that Mr Bandt had racked up a near $1million bill in a year, including hundreds of thousands on printing and two private jet flights.

The anti-fossil fuel campaigner also claimed $12,000 on a taxpayer-provided vehicle and petrol allowance plus $29,000 on government COMCAR trips and taxis, according to figures from the Department of Finance.

Despite his party's core policy of cutting C02 emissions Mr Bandt used two private jets during the 2022 election campaign, landing tax payers with the $23,000 bill.

One flight was between Queensland regional centres Townsville and Rockhampton on March 7.

However, he also took a a $15,000 private plane along the well-travelled Brisbane to Canberra route to attend his party's election campaign launch.

During the year Mr Bandt also spent $57,000 for domestic flights on himself and an eye-watering $372,000 in travel expenses for his 21 staff.

The $963,166 in expenses racked up by Mr Bandt are on top of his $314,000 salary and do not include the wages of his personal staff.
A man who called himself the 'Hand of Death' and aspired to be one of Australia's most prolific serial killers told police 'I love killing' after the brutal murder of a homeless man.

Kevin James Pettiford was sentenced in the NSW Supreme Court to 39 years in jail on Wednesday after being found guilty of murder and attempted murder.

The jury determined he had killed homeless man Andrew Whyte Murray, 56, by bludgeoning him to death with rocks at a park in Tweed Heads in far northern NSW on November 22, 2019. He was arrested on a bus in Tweed Heads four days later.

On Wednesday, Justice Hament Dhanji denounced the killing as a 'senseless, brutal murder' which betrayed a 'complete lack of humanity'.

'The offender acted on a warped and utterly abhorrent view that Mr Murray's life was somehow less valuable as a result of his circumstances,' he said.

Kevin James Pettiford (pictured) will remain behind bars until November 2045

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Pettiford was sleeping rough when he came across Mr Murray's makeshift camp in a park and decided to kill him.

The man had been 'entirely defenceless' when the so-called 'Hand of Death' grabbed three rocks from a nearby seawall and repeatedly smashed them into his skull.

Five weeks later, the jury found he had slashed the throat of fellow inmate Nathan Mellows while in custody at Shortland Correctional Centre.

The court heard he had used a homemade shiv crafted from wire twist ties and razor blades to cut the man's carotid artery in the 'unprovoked attack'.

Pettiford had heard the victim giving 'a sob story' about 'having nowhere to go' and thought 'beautiful', Justice Dhanji said.

He told police he killed by a 'code' and preyed on men he thought they were 'less alive' and no one cared about them.

'I love killing,' the court heard he told police.

Pettiford labelled himself 'the Hand of Death' and told police he was a 'calculated and controlled evil'.

He told police he felt 'relieved and euphoric' after murdering Mr Murray, but he felt it was 'a waste of life'.

Justice Dhanji said he had admitted to a 'long held desire to kill' and showed a 'disregard for human life' with his violent actions.

'He did not display anything that could be described as remorse,' he said.

Pettiford said the murders could have been avoided because he had disclosed to a hospital years earlier that he was having homicidal urges.

He argued he had been mentally impaired at the time of the brutal acts, but the jurors found he was criminally responsible.

Police arrested Kevin James Pettiford (pictured) on a bus four days after he bludgeoned a homeless man to death

Kevin James Pettiford murdered homeless Andrew Murray who was sleeping rough at Jack Evans Boat Harbour (pictured) in Tweed Heads in 2019

'It is clear based on the jury's verdicts that the offender knew his act was wrong,' Justice Dhanji said.

'He could reason with at least a moderate degree of sense and composure.'

However, he concluded the murderer 'was suffering and continues to suffer bipolar disorder' which had 'materially contributed to the commission of both offences'.

Justice Dhanji sentenced Pettiford to a maximum of 39 years behind bars with a non-parole period of 26 years.

When taking into account the time the killer has already served, he will be eligible for parole in November 2045.

Pettiford sat slumped with his head downcast and twirled his beard in his fingers while the Supreme Court Justice described his vicious crimes.

He wore a green prison tracksuit and maintained a blank expression as he learned he would spend at least the next 21 years in jail.
Johnson Development has unveiled the ground breaking of a new community called Grange in Katy, TX. Johnson Development

As Houston homeowners continue to look to the suburbs for new homes, a 2,400-home master-planned community backed by a venture affiliated with Hilcorp Energy CEO and billionaire Jeffrey Hildebrand, is set to break ground in a 1,130-acre area once known for rice farming.

Johnson Development and Hildebrand's real estate investment firm Plow Realty, will work together to build the new community named Grange, located near Morton Road and FM 2855. The name is a nod to the land's historical legacy.

Historically, the Katy area was known for rice farming, said Jacob Rice, vice president and general manager of Grange. The definition of grange is a farm or agricultural estate, which identifies with the region. We will strive to be true to this heritage and retain the character of a small town as development continues.

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Home sales are expected to begin in early 2025 and will feature a Katy zipcode with children zoned to schools within the Katy Independent School District. Land clearing began in January, and the project broke ground this month, with plans to start infrastructure work this summer. The community will focus on outdoor living with key amenities like lakes and other green spaces.

"Lakes and green space will be featured prominently in our master plan, Rice said. Our vision is to celebrate these natural areas while creating a place that cultivates connections with nature and each other.

Located north of I-10 near Morton Road and FM 2855, the land is about 35 miles west of downtown Houston. Johnson Development

The steady rise of development projects around Houston reflects strong demand in the real estate market. Single-family home sales across the Greater Houston area rose 7.6 percent in February. That is only the third increase in the past year, according to data from the Houston Association of Realtors. The Houston Multiple Listing Service recorded sales of 6,221 units compared to 5,781 in February 2023, and the monthly supply of homes climbed from 2.5 to 3.4. The average price for a single-family home in greater Houston rose to $400,252 in February.

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The increase in home sales, slight appreciation in home prices and expanding inventory, creates opportunities for both buyers and sellers in the marketplace," said HAR Chair Thomas Mouton in a statement.
Ex-con turned TikTok celebrity Russell Manser was the owner of a multimillion-dollar property portfolio, luxury cars and a $3million company...until his business empire crashing down amid a legal feud and crippling debts.

Daily Mail Australia can reveal extraordinary details of how reformed bank robber Manser, 56, was quietly involved in a high-stakes court battle that partly led to his advocacy business for prisoners plunging into administration.

He died on Saturday night. His cause of death has still not been made public but there were no suspicious circumstances.

Manser had spent 23 years in various prisons around Australia until he turned his life around and became an advocate for victims of institutional abuse.

He was repeatedly raped in juvenile detention, and then again in an adult prison as a teenager, and launched 'The Voice of a Survivor' in 2017 to help abused inmates get compensation.

Russell Manser is pictured inside his penthouse apartment overlooking Sydney Harbour

The company went into administration last year owing about $1million to the tax office - but it also folded because a former client launched a civil case for more than $800,000.

Despite the collapse of his company, Manser started a podcast called The Stitch Up and continued living a life of luxury with high-end vehicles, a penthouse on Sydney Harbour and a farm in northern NSW.

A source who maintained contact with Manser until his death could not understand where his money came from, telling Daily Mail Australia: 'He was kind of living large and I couldnt figure out how podcasts would sustain that.

'Voice of the Survivor died in the a***,' they said.

Russell Manser is pictured with his girlfriend, Liliana Gagic

Failed business and a legal battle

The Voice of a Survivor provided free consultation to victims, offered to prepare a detailed report of their abuse for a fee, then referred potential compensation claimants to law firms.

The company also charged victims for ongoing support as they navigated the legal process.

Manser dealt with accusations the company had drummed up business by approaching former inmates and cold calling victims during a May 2022 episode of the ABC's Australian Story.

He told the program: 'We've been operating for five years now.

'It hasn't been smooth sailing. People have been trying to suggest that we've been doing things untoward which is really hurtful.'

Manser denied allegations his company pressured vulnerable survivors of sexual assault to launch compensation cases in return for kickbacks from law firms in a practice known as 'claim farming'.

'We don't have to claim farm, people are approaching us,' he told the program.

'We don't have to do that. But, you know, not for one second would I say we haven't made any mistakes.

Russell Manser is pictured, left, in a Versace shirt with Dave Hedgcock (centre)

Manser bought a new Jeep Cherokee in 2022 and uploaded a photo for his Facebook followers (pictured)

Manser said the new Jeep was 'the fruits of my labor' and encouraged his fans to 'work hard'

He also rejected suggestions The Voice of Survivor took commissions of several thousand dollars from law firms for referring prisoners to them and explained how the business made money.

'We actually invoice for a report, and the support that we provide the survivor,' he said.

The company went into administration last July after a change in legislation prevented victims from making claims against people who had died, which rendered the business model unprofitable.

According to insolvency documents, The Voice of a Survivor made about $3.2million in the 2022 financial year, with debts of about $2.8million.

The company owed about $1million to the tax office when it went into liquidation last year, but the business also folded due to an $800,000 civil suit by a former client.

According to insolvency documents, the claim was over allegations the company was negligent and breached its duty of care.

The matter is being heard before the Federal Court.

Russell Manser was a convicted criminal who turned his life around and became an advocate for victims of assault

Manser bought a rare pair of Nike TNs in 2021, worth about $1000 (pictured)

Russell Manser told his Facebook followers he bought rare Nikes in 2021

Life of luxury

Manser continued living his life of luxury well after his company collapsed.

He had a social media following of about 300,000 across Instagram and TikTok and would frequently address his audience while leaning against the bonnet of one of his high-end cars.

Manser owned a black Mercedes, worth about $160,000, and a Jeep Cherokee worth about $80,000 which he bought in 2022.

'I occasionally enjoy the fruits of my labour,' he told his Facebook followers, alongside a picture of the new car wrapped in a red bow.

'Work hard stay focused and chase goals.'

In his videos, he would assure others they they, could also live the high life if they would 'get off the PlayStation and put the bong down'.

When he wasn't posing with a luxury car, he was filming from his 'penthouse' apartment on King Street Wharf, overlooking Sydney Harbour, or from his $2million farm in northern NSW.

Pictured: Manser's six-hectare property in northern NSW, worth about $2million

Pictured: Manser's sprawling property in northern NSW

The sprawling property spans six hectares with a four-bedroom home, along with ten paddocks, stables and a dam.

According to insolvency documents, Manser received $218,000 from the company between July 2021 and July 2023.

That amount comprised 18 'bonus payments' from The Voice of a Survivor, worth a total of $45,800, and nine additional payments worth $33,200.

Manser Co Pty Ltd, owned by Manser, also received 77 payments, worth $139,000.

He would also upload photos in rare shoes and designer clothes.

Girlfriend speaks about their open relationship

On Sunday night, his lover Liliana Gagic posted a series of photos of them together on Instagram.

In the caption, she wrote: 'Goodbye my lover, until we meet again.'

Ms Gagic told Daily Mail Australia they were in an 'open relationship'.

'Russell and I were in an open relationship,' she said.

'I am currently in Europe, so I wasnt next to him [when he died].

'Russell was a warrior. Man on a mission. Soul everyone who ever met will remember forever. Man of freedom, frequency and vibration not many humans embody.'

She said he showed 'love and compassion towards victims of sexual abuse' and described him as a 'one in a million man'.

Manser is survived by his two sons, Ky and Bayley Manser.
A young free diver who drowned has been remembered as an 'extraordinary soul'.

Sam Hamilton, 21, died on Sunday afternoon after he attempted to free dive in water off the coast of Dawesville, about 90km south of Perth.

The physiotherapy student had been kayaking with his partner when he made his descent into the depths.

But he floated back to the surface in a semi-conscious state and moments later stopped breathing.

Sam Hamilton (pictured), 21, died on Sunday afternoon after he attempted to free dive in water off the coast of Dawesville, around 90 km south of Perth

The physiotherapy student had been kayaking with his partner when he made his descent into the depths

His partner tried to revive him, at the same time activating an emergency-positioning indicating radio beacon, a distress call which attracted a rescue boat, The West Australian reported.

He was given first aid in the boat and a paramedic was subsequently lowered into the vessel by an RAC Rescue helicopter, but he could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene.

His friends and family remembered him as a young man who brought joy to the lives of others.

Mr Hamilton's uncle Jono Faulkner said he loved his nephew like a 'son and best friend'.

'We shared a love of the ocean and you went doing something you loved,' Mr Faulkner wrote on social media.

'I loved your passion for life. I loved your deep thoughts. I loved being on the boat and in the water with you.'

He added: 'I loved your smile. I loved your laugh. I loved your amazing insights into life at such a young age.

His friends and family remembered him as a young man who brought joy to the lives of others

'I loved the way you hugged and it always felt like you meant it. I loved how you embraced every moment. I loved watching you grow into a mighty fine man.'

Friend and cousin Molly Smith said her 'heart is heavy with sorrow and longing for your presence'.

'It's difficult to accept that you are no longer here with us, but I find solace in knowing that your spirit will forever live on in our hearts,' Ms SMith wrote on social media.

'You were an extraordinary soul who brought immense happiness and love into our lives.'

Another family member said there was a 'huge Sam-shaped hole in all of our lives'.

'You left us way too soon, but we sure did love the way you did life! Full of love, passion and the most wonderful laugh,' they wrote.

Police will prepare a report for the coroner.
Storm Nelson will bring strong winds and heavy rain to parts of Britain tonight and into tomorrow as the unsettled weather continues in the run-up to Easter.

Blustery conditions, showers, thunder and hail will hit the UK as the low pressure system sweeps in after being named by the Spanish weather service Aemet.

This morning began wet across the North and West with hill snow in Scotland - and while eastern areas will see some sunshine, rain will later move in from the west.

Temperatures will be low across the UK today, struggling to get above 7C (45F) in Scotland, 9C (48F) in northern England and 12C (54F) in the South and Wales.

Forecasters said up to 2.8in (70mm) of rain could fall in Northern Ireland, which is under a weather warning until 10am today, while northern Scotland faces gales.

It comes as holidaymakers heading to Spain or Portugal in the coming days face a washout Easter with low temperatures  with heavy rain expected in Madrid which will make it to only 14C (57F) this week, Lisbon to 16C (61F) and Faro to 17C (63F).

People shelter umbrellas in London yesterday evening as the capital is hit by wet weather

WEDNESDAY: Blustery conditions, showers, thunder and hail will hit the UK with highs of 12C

STORM NELSON: A map by Spanish weather service Aemet showing the low pressure system

GOOD FRIDAY FORECAST: Showers and breezy conditions for Britain this Friday with 14C highs

BBC meteorologist Helen Willetts told Radio 4: 'The low pressure that's throwing this rain our way has now been named as Storm Nelson by the Spanish met service.

'And it will bring some stronger winds our way as well later tonight and tomorrow.'

READ MORE Rain in Spain! Met Office warns of Easter washout for families heading to European cities including 14C Madrid - but 25C Rome will be hot and sunny Advertisement

Over in Spain, an alert from Aemet said: 'Storm Nelson, recently named by Aemet, will give rise in the coming days to strong gusts of wind and rain in large areas of the territory in a period of great social relevance such as Holy Week.

The storm has not been named by the UK's Met Office, which last named Storm Jocelyn on January 22. The next storm in the UK series, which runs until the end of this August, will be Kathleen.

The UK is facing a typical mix of spring weather in the run-up to Easter - with downpours, strong winds and sunshine all expected over the coming days.

Unsettled conditions will remain for much of this week, with low pressure bringing rain from the West.

The Met Office said rain and hill snow will move north across Scotland and Northern Ireland today, with brighter spells and showers following behind.

Meanwhile in England and Wales, a band of showery rain will move east although there will also be some sunny spells.

Tonight will bring clear spells and scattered heavy showers at first, with much of Scotland becoming dry overnight.

GOOD FRIDAY: The Met Office has warned of 'unsettled' weather for much of Europe this week

EASTER SATURDAY: Spain and Portugal are likely to see thunderstorms and strong winds

But showers will continue in Northern Ireland, and rain will begin to fall again across England and Wales.

Bright spells will follow tomorrow, especially in Scotland - but showery rain will move north across most areas and there could be hail and thunder in the South, where it will also be very windy.

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Helen Caughey said: 'It's another very unsettled week for much of the UK, with heavy, blustery showers, longer spells of rain and also some strong winds.'

'In terms of hazards in the current forecast, we're continuing to keep an eye on some of the expected rainfall totals as they build up through the week, with some places, including Northern Ireland, still quite sensitive to rainfall amounts due to the wet winter many have experienced.

'We will also need to monitor the winds with the potential for gales to develop around some coastal areas of the north at first, then later for some south and southwestern areas, especially as these may coincide with some high tides.'

The Met Office said it was still confirming the forecast for the Easter weekend, but Good Friday will likely be another day of blustery showers, most frequent in the South and West.

SPAIN -- Huge waves at Puerto De La Cruz in Tenerife yesterday as Storm Nelson hits Spain

PORTUGAL -- Big waves strike the beach of Nazare in Portugal yesterday amid Storm Nelson

Saturday will then see the showers continue in the South and West, but there will be an increasing chance of brighter spells further north and east.

READ MORE Easter weekend washout: Met Office warns of 'unsettled' four days Advertisement

Sunday currently looks to be the best day of the Easter weekend. However, conditions are expected to become more unsettled from the South later that day and into Easter Monday, which is likely to be unsettled for many areas.

Ms Caughey continued: 'Showers will continue into the weekend, especially for southern and western areas.

'However, it is likely that we will see something of an improvement for most areas, with showers tending to become less frequent, and a better chance of longer spells of sunshine for eastern and northern areas in particular.

'It will also become less windy, and temperatures should start to trend upwards, feeling quite warm in any sunshine.

'However, more widely unsettled conditions look likely to return into Easter Monday, but there is still some uncertainty in the timing of this deterioration.'
The Australian government's attempts to police online speech have descended into farce after its 'world's first' eSafety Commissioner admitted it was effectively powerless to stop people re-sharing 'banned' posts.

On Tuesday, Daily Mail Australia revealed the Australian government tried to force a Canadian man called Chris Elston to delete an 'offensive' post about a UN trans expert, threatening X owner Elon Musk with an $800,000 fine if it was not removed from the platform.

Mr Elston, who goes by the name of 'Billboard Chris' on X and lives in Canada, refused to delete the post.

When X subsequently complied with the 'removal order' by geo-blocking the post in Australia, Mr Elston simply re-shared the offending post.

In a colossal back-fire for the e-Safety Commissioner, that post alone has been seen over 130,000 times and a concerted campaign to re-share it by others has racked up hundreds of thousands of views.

In response to this publication's story, Billionaire X owner Musk said: 'What is the world coming to?'

Chris Elston (pictured above), who goes by the name of 'Billboard Chris' on X and lives in Canada, revealed on Tuesday he had been sent an Orwellian 'removal notice' from the Australian Government's eSafety Commissioner for making an 'offensive' post about trans expert Teddy Cook (pictured below). He refused to delete it and re-shared it, which has since been viewed thousands of times

UN trans expert Teddy Cook is pictured

Now the taxpayer-funded eSafety Commissioner, which is run by Julie Inman Grant (pictured) - who receives a salary of almost $445,000 - has admitted it can only block or remove the subsequent posts if other complaints are made by the offended party

Now, the taxpayer-funded eSafety Commissioner has admitted it can only block or remove the subsequent posts if other complaints are made by the offended party.

'eSafety's Adult Cyber Abuse Scheme is a complaints-based scheme,' a spokesperson for the eSafety Commissioner told Daily Mail Australia.

'In cases where a new version of the material has been posted after a removal notice has been issued and complied with, we require a new complaint from the targeted Australian resident - or someone authorised to report on their behalf - to take regulatory action.'

This effectively means the 'world's first' online safety regulator could be engaged in an endless game of whack-a-mole as it attempts to police speech online.

Political figures were lining up to condemn the alleged waste of Aussie taxpayer's money.

'What is the world coming to?', X owner Elon Musk commented on Daily Mail Australia's original story (pictured below)

David Limbrick, MP for South Eastern Metropolitan in Victoria, accused the regulator of bringing 'our nation into disrepute'.

'I want to feel proud to be Australian. I want Australia to be a beacon of freedom in the world,' Mr Limbrick wrote.

'Instead, the world laughs at our stupidity. We need to shift towards the defence of freedom.'

Meanwhile, Independent Liberal member MP Moira Deeming described the e-Safety Commisioner as the 'Ministry of Truth', referencing George Orwell's novel 1984.

'We reject your Orwellian dystopia,' Ms Deeming added.

Almost 500 civil servants are employed by the eSafety Commissioner and the Australian Communications and Media Authority, according to its latest annual report.

The eSafety Commissioner lauds itself as the 'first government agency committed to keeping its citizens safer online'.

It is run by former Twitter Director of Public Policy, Australia & SE Asia, Julie Inman-Grant, who receives an annual salary of almost $445,000.

Ms Grant, an American who began her career working in the US Congress, worked at Microsoft for 17 years, eventually rising to the role of Global Director for Safety and Privacy Policy and Outreach before she joined Twitter.

She was reappointed for a further five-year term in her role as eSafety Commissioner by the Australian government in January 2022.

In a colossal back-fire for the e-Safety Commissioner, Mr Elston's new post alone has been seen over 130,000 times and a concerted campaign to re-share it by others has racked up hundreds of thousands of views (the post is pictured, as outlined in the eSafety Commissioner's 'removal notice')

Ms Grant serves on the World Economic Forum's Global Coalition for Digital SafetyExternal link and, in 2020, was appointed by the Davos-based organisation as one of the world's most influential leaders revolutionising government.

The Free Speech Union of Australia has written to Ms Inman-Grant personally to demand the regulator 'explain why they chose to censor' Mr Eslton's post.

'Australia's eSafety Commissioner simply has no business in trying to censor someone living in another country for saying it,' the letter stated.

'Nor does she have any business doing so in respect of any Australians who might repeat it.'

Ms Grant (pictured) serves on the World Economic Forum's Global Coalition for Digital SafetyExternal link and, in 2020, was appointed by the Davos-based organisation as one of the world's most influential leaders revolutionising government

Mr Elston's alleged offence had been to share a Daily Mail story in late February about Teddy Cook, a female-to-male trans Australian activist who landed a job on a World Health Organisation (WHO) expert panel drafting care guidelines for trans and non-binary people.

In his post, Mr Elston misgendered Cook and make other 'disparaging' remarks.

Cook, 45, who describes himself as a 'professional queer, man of trans experience', has advocated for taxpayer-funded surgeries for all trans Australians.

His now-private social media posts are awash with X-rated material, including public nudity, bondage parties, trans orgies and even a photo of a man apparently having sex with a dog.

While Daily Mail Australia does not suggest those revelations should exclude Cook from advising the WHO on trans healthcare, some have questioned his appropriateness for the role.

On March 22, Mr Elston received a letter from the Australian government-run eSafety Commissioner, demanding that he remove the 'deliberately degrading' post.

'An ordinary reasonable person in the position of the Complainant would regard the Material as being offensive,' an unnamed delegate of the eSafety Commissioner wrote to Mr Elston.

'This is because the Material singles out the Complainant to personify the poster's contempt for transgender identity as well as equating transgender identity with a psychiatric condition.'

It is understood Cook lodged the complaint with the ESafety Commissioner himself.

Daily Mail Australia approached Cook for comment.

The order demanded that if the post was not removed within 24 hours, X would be fined up to $782,500.

Mr Elston, a vociferous campaigner against 'gender ideology', vowed he would not remove the post.

He later share Daily Mail Australia's story, commenting: 'The Australian government's attempt at censoring me has backfired spectacularly.'
Tributes have been paid to a Brit who died after slipping and hitting his head while leaping from a bridge into the water below during a night out with friends in Australia.

Joshua Santos Christian, in his 30s, died in the early hours of Sunday morning in the coastal town of Noosa Sound, in Queensland.

Mr Christian, who moved to Brisbane from the Wirral, was among a group of friends taking turns to jump off the Noosa Sound Bridge into the water below when tragedy struck.

Joshua Santos Christian (pictured with his girlfriend Becca), in his 30s, died in the early hours of Sunday morning in the coastal town of Noosa Sound, in Queensland

When Mr Christian failed to emerge from the water, his friends immediately began a frantic search before contacting emergency services at around 1am

After completing one jump, he returned to the bridge for another attempt.

Unfortunately, he lost his footing while crossing the railing and struck his head on the descent.

When Mr Christian failed to emerge from the water, his friends immediately began a frantic search before contacting emergency services at around 1am.

His body was recovered at around 6am after a local boat operator used sonar equipment to help find him.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Now, his heartbroken family and friends are raising money to repatriate his body to the UK.

A GoFundMe page says Mr Christian 'was in a happy place smashing life with his Aussie tribe and his loving girlfriend, Becca'.

'He passed happy and loving life and always living up to his motto "here for a good time not a long time".'

The tragic death follows several warnings from police against jumping from the Noosa Sound Bridge (file image of people jumping off the bridge)

'I can't put into words how special a person you were and how you lit up every room,' friend Jimmy Allen wrote on social media..

'You always wanted the best for everyone and made everyone feel so, so special.

'I'll always be thinking of you my brother and will always have a special place in my heart.

'I'll see you on the other side.'

Another friend said Mr Christian's death was 'heartbreakingly tragic'.

'Sometimes the greatest flames are taken from us,' another said.

His funeral will be held at Landican Crematorium in Birkenhead.

Mr Christian, who moved to Brisbane from the Wirral, was among a group of friends taking turns to jump off the Noosa Sound Bridge into the water below when tragedy struck

The tragic death follows several warnings from police against jumping from the bridge. Despite cautions it could lead to serious injury, it has remained a popular tourist activity.

Now-retired Senior Sergeant Peter Feldman previously explained what makes it so risky.

'They are not only risking their own lives, but that of people in passing boats,' he told Noosa News.

'It is an offence to jump off certain structures and they are breaking the law.

'It's not the height of the bridge that makes it dangerous - it's the way that they can fall. It only takes a fall of a couple of metres to seriously injure somebody.'

A spokesman for the Foreign, Development and Commonwealth Office said: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who died in Australia and are in contact with the local authorities.'
Two of the six construction crew members, thrown into the frigid waters of the Patapsco River when a container ship collided with the bridge they were working on, have been named.

Miguel Luna, 49, was on the graveyard shift with the rest of his Hispanic crew when the Dali ship lost propulsion and caused the collapse of the iconic Francis Scott Key bridge. Luna, a father of six, according to Telemundo, is now presumed dead.

'They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they can't give us information. [We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we don't know if they've rescued them yet. We're just waiting to hear any news,' his wife, Maria del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo 44.

A second man, Maynor Suazo, 37, a native of Honduras was identified in his homeland as another worker who is missing and presumed to be dead. Suazo, a father of two, had been living in the US for the past 18 years.

Guatemala's consulate in Maryland said in a statement that two of the missing were citizens of the Central American nation. It did not provide their names but said consular officials were in contact with authorities and assisting the families.

Mexican officials have said that some of their citizens are missing but did not say how many.

The first of the six: Miguel Luna, 49, was the first missing construction worker identified following the collapse

Maynor Suazo, 37, a native of Honduras has been named as the other man missing and presumed dead

'They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they can't give us information. [We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken,' Luna's wife told a local news outlet

Miguel Luna, 49, was working the graveyard shift on the bridge when the Dali ship lost propulsion and caused the collapse of the iconic Francis Scott Key bridge

People look out toward the Francis Scott Key Bridge following its collapse after the Singapore-flagged Dali container ship collided with it along the Patapsco River on March 26

Maynor Suazo's brother, Martin, told Honduran television that his brother was a native of Santa Barbara, in the western part of the country, Martin said that his brother emigrated in order to 'improve the quality of his life.'

Martin said that he plans to travel to the United States in order to repatriate his brother's remains.

In a separate interview with CNN, Martin confirmed that Suazo is survived by his son, 18, and daughter, five. In that interview, Martin reiterated his brother's desire for a better life in the US and said that he had also started his own maintenance company.

'Maynor Suazo was a guy with warmth, quality of people, entrepreneur with a vision and mission to serve our community,' a family friend wrote in a touching Facebook tribute.

The ship's crew issued a mayday call moments before the crash took down the Francis Scott Key Bridge, enabling authorities to limit vehicle traffic on the span, Maryland's governor said.

As the vessel neared the bridge, puffs of black smoke could be seen as the lights flickered on and off. It struck one of the bridge's supports, causing the structure to collapse like a toy, and a section of the span came to rest on the bow.

With the ship barreling toward the bridge at 'a very, very rapid speed,' authorities had just enough time to stop cars from coming over the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said.

'These people are heroes,' Moore said. 'They saved lives last night.'

Luna and the rest of his construction crew are now considered dead

Maynor Suazo's brother, Martin, said in various interviews that his brother came to the US in search of a better quality of life

In the evening, Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent for Maryland State Police, announced that the search and rescue mission was transitioning to one of search and recovery.

He also said the search was being put on pause and divers would return to the site at 6 a.m. Wednesday, when challenging overnight conditions were expected to improve. No bodies have been recovered, Butler said.

The crash happened in the middle of the night, long before the busy morning commute on the bridge that stretches 1.6 miles and was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

The six missing people were part of a construction crew filling potholes on the bridge, said Paul Wiedefeld, the state's transportation secretary.

A senior executive at the company that employed the workers also said, in the afternoon, that the workers were presumed dead given the water's depth and how much time had passed.

Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, said the crew was working in the middle of the bridge when it came down.

'This was so completely unforeseen,' Pritzker said. 'We don't know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers.'

Jesus Campos, who has worked on the bridge for Brawner Builders and knows members of the crew, said he was told they were on a break and some were sitting in their trucks.

'I know that a month ago, I was there, and I know what it feels like when the trailers pass,' Campos said. 'Imagine knowing that is falling. It is so hard. One would not know what to do.'

Father Ako Walker, a Roman Catholic priest at Sacred Heart of Jesus, said he spent time with the families of the missing workers as they waited for news of their loved ones.

'You can see the pain etched on their faces,' Walker said.

Rescuers pulled two people out of the water, one of whom was treated at a hospital and discharged hours later. Multiple vehicles also went into the river, although authorities did not believe anyone was inside.

'It looked like something out of an action movie,' Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said, calling it 'an unthinkable tragedy.'

A police dispatcher put out a call just before the collapse saying a ship had lost its steering and asked officers to stop all traffic on the bridge, according to Maryland Transportation Authority first responder radio traffic.

One officer who stopped traffic radioed that he was going to drive onto the bridge to alert the construction crew.

But seconds later, a frantic officer said: 'The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever, everybody ... the whole bridge just collapsed.'

The Singaporean flagged ship the Dali was en route to Sri Lanka when the crash occurred

A police dispatcher put out a call just before the collapse saying a ship had lost its steering and asked officers to stop all traffic on the bridge, according to Maryland Transportation Authority first responder radio traffic

On a separate radio channel for maintenance and construction workers, someone said officers were stopping traffic because a ship had lost steering.

There was no follow-up order to evacuate, and 30 seconds later the bridge fell and the channel went silent.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, according to the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Tuesday's collapse is sure to create a logistical nightmare along the East Coast for months, if not years, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major hub. The loss of the bridge will also snarl cargo and commuter traffic.

'Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast,' state Sen. Johnny Ray Salling said.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said at a news conference that it was too soon to estimate how long it will take to clear the channel, which is about 50 feet (15 meters) deep.

'I do not know of a bridge that has been constructed to withstand a direct impact from a vessel of this size,' he said.

The Dali, which was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka and flying under a Singapore flag, is about 985 feet (300 meters) long and about 157 feet (48 meters) wide, according to according to data from Marine Traffic.

Synergy Marine Group, which manages the ship, confirmed that it hit a pillar of the bridge at about 1:30 a.m. while in control of one or more pilots, who are local specialists who help guide vessels safely into and out of ports. The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd.

Synergy said all crew members and the two pilots on board were accounted for, and there were no reports of any injuries.

The ship was moving at 8 knots, roughly 9 mph, the governor said.

Inspectors found a problem with the Dali's machinery in June, but a more recent examination did not identify any deficiencies, according to the shipping information system Equasis.

Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

Jagged remnants of the bridge could be seen jutting up from the water in the aftermath of the collapse. The on-ramp ended abruptly where the span once began.

Donald Heinbuch, a retired chief with Baltimore's fire department, said he was startled awake by a deep rumbling that shook his house for several seconds and 'felt like an earthquake.' He drove to the river's edge and couldn't believe what he saw.

'The ship was there, and the bridge was in the water, like it was blown up,' he said.

President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore and intends for the federal government to pick up the entire cost of rebuilding

News of the bridge collapse made headlines worldwide

The bridge spans the Patapsco River at the entrance to the busy harbor, which leads to the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Opened in 1977, the bridge is named for the scribe of the Star Spangled Banner.

Wiedefeld said all vessel traffic into and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though the facility was still open to trucks.

President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore and intends for the federal government to pick up the entire cost of rebuilding.

'This is going to take some time,' Biden said.

Last year the Port of Baltimore handled a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo worth $80 billion, according to the state.

The head of a supply chain management company said Americans should expect shortages of goods from the collapse's effect on ocean container shipping and East Coast trucking.

'It's not just the port of Baltimore that's going to be impacted,' said Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport.

The collapse, though, is not likely to hurt worldwide trade because Baltimore is not a major port for container vessels. its its facilities are more important when it comes to goods such as farm equipment and autos, said Judah Levine, head of research for global freight booking platform Freightos.
Locals in an upmarket seaside town have threatened to leave the area after the opening of a 'monstrous' Poundstretcher near to their 800,000 homes.

The budget supermarket has opened a giant new store in charming Frinton-on-Sea, which is known as 'The Bond Street of East Anglia' and is popular among those who are retired.

Locals are now threatening to boycott the discount chain and move out of their homes as 'the truly terrible' store makes the area 'lose its edge'.

Margaret Simpson, 62, who has lived in Frinton-on-Sea for 33 years, said: 'It is monstrous. It's out of place, bright red, looks awful and just brings the whole area down.'

The retired administrator added: 'It's ridiculous. It offers nothing to the area. I worry about what will come to the area next.

This is a look at the new discount retailer Poundstretcher which has upset locals

Locals in Frinton-on-Sea are now threatening to move away due to the store opening

The area, known as 'The Bond Street of East Anglia', is popular among those who are retired

'Where does it end? I appreciate people do use stores like that but this is Frinton and it is a very different area.'

Andrew Saunders, 71, said it was 'terrible'. The retired civil servant explained: 'I do worry about the future. Things like this mean the area loses its advantage and edge.

'I will not be using it and if there's more of this I will leave.'

Mary Whitworth, a retired teacher, said: 'This is the thin end of the wedge. At this rate we will have a McDonald's and KFC. If that happens, I'll be leaving.'

Another said: 'It's truly terrible. I cannot believe what has happened.'

The store had been a M&Co but has been empty since 2020. The change of use has also not proved popular on social media.

Poundstretcher has been contacted for comment.
Not every workplace row involving Muslims will be related to religion, a tribunal judge has said.

Employment Judge Kirsty Ayre has ruled that a heated row between an NHS consultant and her nursing colleagues was not initiated 'because of religion'.

Dr Farhat Butt, who wears a hijab and covers up everything other than her hands, feet and face whilst in public, sued for discrimination after bosses told her to roll up her sleeves at work.

She claimed she was 'racially profiled' and then 'bullied' by managers into exposing her forearms.

Dr Butt had stepped outside into a hospital corridor which she believed was a non-clinical area and meant she didn't have to comply with the 'bare below the elbow' hygiene policy.

But she was spotted and a heated altercation unfolded which 'escalated very quickly', an employment tribunal heard.

She sued the health service for religious discrimination and harassment.

However, her claims were dismissed after the tribunal ruled the row had nothing to do with her being a Muslim.

The tribunal heard that Dr Butt worked one day a week as a visiting Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Airedale General Hospital, in Eastburn, West Yorkshire

The tribunal heard Dr Butt worked for an NHS Trust in Bradford but worked one day a week as a visiting Consultant Ophthalmologist at the Airedale General Hospital, in Eastburn, West Yorkshire.

On days she works, she carries out an ophthalmic surgery.

The panel heard there were Hand Hygiene Guidelines in place which required staff to be 'bare below the elbows to facilitate effective hand hygiene'.

However, it adds 'whilst, we expect all members of staff in clinical areas to be 'bare below the elbows' we also recognise the specific needs of our staff on cultural, religious or disability grounds' and offers disposable sleeves as a result.

This also applied to uniform policy but Dr Butt said there was 'no clear definition' of where the non-clinical and clinical areas were.

The Leeds tribunal was told when a member of staff sees a colleague not complying with the policies, they are 'expected' to challenge them.

'When she is working in what she considers to be a clinical area, she ensures that her arms are bare below the elbow,' the hearing was told.

However, when she left clinical areas she would roll her sleeves down so that her forearms were covered and wore a full sleeved elastic and tight fitted body top, known as a scrub under top, underneath her scrubs when at work.

Airedale General Hospital, Steeton, Keighley, West Yorkshire

On December 6, 2022 - when a Care Quality Commission (CQC) team were due to visit the hospital for an inspection - she was 'challenged' about not having her sleeves rolled up.

After leaving the operating theatre to go to the bathroom to make a phone call she had her sleeves 'fully down' by the time she got to the corridor.

In an altercation, director of nursing, Mary Hytch, and two other bosses saw Dr Butt.

Mrs Hytch believed her to have been in the anaesthetic room without her sleeves rolled up and to get her attention, she raised her voice slightly and said, 'excuse me'.

She then asked her to roll her sleeves up.

This left Dr Butt 'upset' at being challenged and this showed in her reaction in an altercation which 'escalated very quickly' and during which voices were raised on both sides.

The panel heard she was 'not happy' and 'very upset' at being challenged because she believed she was complying with the policy.

'[Dr Butt] perceived that she was being challenged by three colleagues who were supporting each other and that she had done nothing wrong,' the hearing was told.

'Both she and Mrs Hytch became heated and talked in loud voices.'

After the length of her fingernails was also criticised, Dr Butt was 'unable to continue at work' and cancelled her operating list for the day so she could go home.

In an email, she said she had been 'racially profiled and bullied into rolling her sleeves up'.

After no outcome was reached in an informal manner, Dr Butt escalated her complaint and said the situation which had made her 'feel targeted' had not been handled 'professionally or appropriately'.

She refused mediation and an independent investigation was launched in March 2023 as she complained of 'deep rooted problems' with discrimination.

A report found Mrs Hytch's request for Dr Butt to be bare below the elbows was 'not racially motivated but rather a request made to ensure adherence to the policies'.

It was however recognised that the incident had been 'stressful' for her, and found it was 'disappointing' that the discussion had escalated so quickly.

She also complained about an incident on December 13, 2022 when a nurse approached Dr Butt and 'instructed her to roll up her sleeves'.

'Not everything that happens in the workplace to a Muslim worker will be related to religion, and [Dr Butt]'s own evidence was that religion was not discussed on the day,' she said.

'Rather, she gave another reason at the time for not rolling her sleeves up, rather that she believed she was in a non-clinical area of the hospital.

'We accept that the initial challenge was polite and find that the reason matters subsequently became heated was because of [Dr Butt]'s response to being challenged, combined with Mrs Hytch's response to her not doing as she was asked.

'We also find that the reason Mary Hytch initially challenged [Dr Butt] was because she genuinely believed that she was in breach of the policies.'

However, she added: 'The situation was not handled well by either party and as a result it escalated quickly.

'It cannot however be said that the escalation was because of religion.

'There are plenty of altercations that take place in the workplace because both parties become angry and upset, and we find that was the case here.'
Advertisement

Water companies pumped raw sewage into British rivers and seas for a record 3.6million hours last year, more than double than in 2022, new figures have revealed.

The figures, equivalent to more than 450 years, are 105 per cent increase from the previous 12 months, according to Environment Agency data published this morning.

The figures are at their highest ever levels, although officials caution that comparisons over the years are difficult as an increasing number of storm overflows have been fitted with monitors over time, and all now have the technology to record spills.

This comes as a marine biologist revealed this morning that the problem is so bad that every single sea creature they had studied in Langstone Harbour, near Portsmouth, had tested positive for cocaine.

Professor Alex Ford, from Portsmouth University, told Good Morning Britain the Southern Water sewage treatment plant at the harbour, which leads into the English Channel, 'takes the waste of half a million people and when it can't cope with it chucks it straight out here'.

He told GMB: 'In the marine life just beneath our feet, we're actually finding they're full of drugs: contraceptive pills, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication.

'Every single marine species that we've looked at so far is full of cocaine.'

He said wildlife was being affected by the drugs in the sewage water, which marine animals are being exposed to all at once. Prof Ford told GMB: 'The drugs affect this wildlife in the same way they do us. If you give a fish contraceptive pill it starts to feminise, if you give crabs antidepressants it changes their behaviour because those drugs were designed to change behaviour.

'If you give them illegal drugs as well it has very much the same effect it has on them as it would do on people as well.'

The number of discharges from the 14,000 storm overflows which are owned by English water companies also soared to 464,056 last year, up 54 per cent per cent from 301,091, meaning that last year was the worst on record for sewage spills.

This is the highest number since current data began in 2016, ahead of the previous peak of 403,375 spills in 2020.

Total hours water companies in England leaked sewage into rivers, lakes and the sea in 2023 shown by the areas they cover

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Marine biologist Professor Alex Ford (pictured on GMB this morning) revealed this morning that the problem is so bad that every single sea creature they had studied in Langstone Harbour, near Portsmouth, had tested positive for cocaine

Discharge into the River Thames at Thames Water-run Crossness sewage treatment works in east London today, where sewage was pumped into the waters for nearly six hours overnight into this morning

Water companies pumped raw sewage into British rivers and seas for a record four million hours last year, more than double than in 2022, new figures have revealed

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Your browser does not support iframes.

The duration of the sewage spills had more than doubled from 1,754,921 hours hours in 2022, to 3,606,170 hours in 2023, the figures show.

Both the frequency and duration of spills were also up on 2020 levels, which saw comparable amounts of rainfall.

Raw sewage discharges are meant to be released from storm overflows only in exceptional circumstances due to extreme weather such as torrential rain.

But companies have been found to have been using them routinely, even during dry spells, although the water industry is likely blame the figures on heavy rainfall with last year being the sixth wettest on record.

The Government has signalled it is going to clamp down on water firms, as yesterday the Environment Agency announced a new whistleblowing hotline for those who work industry to report 'serious environmental wrongdoing by their water companies'.

Findings made from whistleblower reports can be used in enforcement action against these companies, including unlimited financial penalties and criminal prosecutions.

Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, said: 'We share the public's disgust with sewage pollution and know there's always more that can be done to protect our waterways.

'This new whistleblowing portal allows workers to raise their concerns and we encourage people to come forward, knowing any information will be treated in confidence and with sensitivity.

'The more evidence we have to identify potential criminality, then the more actions we can take to make lasting improvements to our environment.'

Environment Secretary, Steve Barclay, said: 'We have been clear we will not tolerate pollution and water companies need to act quickly to improve their environmental performance. This whistleblowing portal is another measure which will help the regulator gather vital intelligence and hold rule-breakers to account.

'It builds on our recent work to ban inappropriate executive bonuses and plans to quadruple the number of water company inspections by the Environment Agency  ensuring we continue to protect our waterways with more investment, stronger regulation and tougher enforcement action.'

United Utilities dumped the most raw sewage in British waterways out of all water companies last year, with a total 656,014 hours across 97,537 spills, an average of 290 hours per site or 43 per site.

South West Water spilled for 530,737 hours last year after 58,249 overflow incidents. This is an average of 390 hours per storm overflow and 43 per site.

Yorkshire Water was in third with 516,386 hours worth of spillages across 77,761 incidents last year. Severn Trent had 440,446 hours of spillages over 60,253 individual incidents.

The figures also showed there were an average of 33 instances of sewage spills per storm overflow in England last year, up from 23 in 2022.

This is the second highest annual average since data began in 2016, with the highest being 35 spills per overflow in 2019.

A general view of the fast flowing and swollen River Ure at Aysgarth Falls, North Yorkshire

Photo issued by River Action of a water sample taken from the River Thames around Hammersmith Bridge in west London where high levels of E. coli were found

In this aerial view, discharge is seen flowing into the River Thames at Crossness sewage treatment works in London today

According to data revealed by Sky News in 2022, water companies poured raw sewage into rivers and seas for nearly 9.5 million hours in the five-year period between 2016 and 2021.

The new record figures show that nearly half of the sewage discharged over that five year period was pumped into British waterways just last year.

This year every storm overflow has been fitted with an 'EDM' monitor - but even this is unlikely to record the full scale of the increases in sewage spills.

High levels of E.coli in Thames ahead of Oxbridge Boat Race

Chloe Peck of River Action, testing River Thames water around Hammersmith Bridge High levels of E.coli have been found along a stretch of the River Thames that will be used for the historic Oxbridge Boat Race this weekend, researchers said. The bacteria, which can cause serious infections, was discovered during regular testing by River Action and the Fulham Reach Boat Club between February 28 and March 26, using a World Health Organisation-verified E.coli analyser. The 16 tests around Hammersmith Bridge in west London indicated an average of 2,869 E.coli colony forming units (CFU) per 100ml of water. To meet the Environment Agency's inland bathing water quality standards, the level should be below 1,000 CFU per 100ml. River Action said the highest level it recorded was 9,801 CFU per 100ml, meaning it was nearly 10 times higher than levels found in bathing waters graded as 'poor' by Environment Agency standards. The Government advises against bathing in water at this grade, which is the lowest of the four possible categories. The Cambridge rowing team practise in the Thames ahead boat race against Oxford, in London today River Action said the testing locations suggested the source of pollution is from Thames Water discharging sewage directly into the river and its tributaries. This is based on publicly available data which showed that the water company had discharged sewage into the Greater London area of the River Thames for 1,914 hours from the start of 2024 up to March 26. This is equivalent to 79 out of the 85 days. The findings come ahead of the annual Gemini Boat Race between the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge on Saturday. River Action, British Rowing and The Rivers Trust have issued new guidance to rowing clubs across the UK on safety in polluted waters, which has been included in the Gemini Boat Race briefing packs to both universities. Rowers are advised on the importance of covering cuts, grazes and blisters with waterproof dressings, taking care not to swallow river water that splashes close to the mouth, wearing suitable footwear when launching or recovering a boat, and cleaning all equipment thoroughly. River Action chief executive James Wallace said: 'We are in a tragic situation when elite athletes are issued with health guidance ahead of a historic race on the capital's river. 'Our water quality results show what happens after decades of neglect by an unregulated water company, Thames Water.' The organisation said rowers, communities and conservationists are uniting to ask the Government to enforce the law and prosecute polluters. 'Everyone should be able to enjoy our rivers and seas without risking their health,' Mr Wallace said. World champion Imogen Grant, who was also a triple Boat Race winner with Cambridge, said: 'As a rower, the water I row on is my field of play, and the results of the E.coli testing show that rowers are putting their health at risk to do the sport they love. 'Thousands of people rely on our rivers for work and recreation and they are being choked with sewage and pollution. 'More needs to be done to improve our water quality across the country, and testing like this gives us a picture of just how far we have to go.' E.coli, which is found in faeces, can cause a range of conditions, including urinary tract infection, cystitis, intestinal infection and vomiting, with the worst cases leading to life-threatening blood poisoning. A Thames Water spokesman said: 'Taking action to improve the health of rivers is a key focus for us and we want to lead the way with our transparent approach to data. 'We have experienced higher than average long-term rainfall across London and the Thames Valley, with groundwater levels exceptionally high for the time of the year. 'We are working hard to make these discharges unnecessary and have published plans to upgrade over 250 of our sites, including a 100 million upgrade of our Mogden sewage treatment works in south-west London to treat the high volumes of incoming sewage and reduce the need for overflows during wet weather.' Advertisement

Last September, the Office for Environmental Protection said the guidance provided by the Government to regulators might be allowing firms to discharge raw sewage more regularly than 'intended by the law'.

The Government has said it plans to eliminate 40 per cent of raw sewage overflows into rivers by 2040, and recently announced a 180million plan to fast-track action.

In response to the figures, a spokesperson for industry body Water UK said: 'These results are unacceptable and demonstrate exactly why we urgently need regulatory approval to upgrade our system so it can better cope with the weather.

'We have a plan to sort this out by tripling investment which will cut spills by 40% by 2030 - more than double the Government's target.

'We now need the regulator Ofwat to give us the green light so that we can get on with it,' they urged.

The water companies say they want to triple investment to 10billion over the period 2025-2030 to tackle the problem, but they have been criticised for passing this cost onto customers through higher bills.

Ahead of the figures being published this morning, Labour called for an immediate ban on bonuses for bosses of polluting water companies.

There has been rising public concern at the state of England's rivers and seas, with bathers regularly not able to swim at their favourite beaches due to pollution and assessments showing none of the country's rivers are in good overall condition.

Pollution from water companies is - along with farming - a key cause of low water quality in the country's rivers.

Anger has been directed at water company executives being given high salaries and bonuses despite the condition of the country's waterways and coasts.

Shadow environment secretary Steve Reed said water company bosses should not be allowed bonuses for 'this level of failure'.

He said: 'It's absolutely disgusting to see record levels of raw sewage being pumped out into our lakes, rivers and waterways, and a Government standing back and doing absolutely nothing while this continues.'

Under Labour's plan to put water firms in 'special measures', bosses would be banned from 'paying themselves bonuses for overseeing this level of failure'.

'They have awarded themselves 25million since the last general election, every single penny of that should have gone into fixing the broken sewers, not rewarding them for failure.'

Sir Keir Starmer had pledged to nationalise the water companies when he ran for the Labour leadership, a promise the party subsequently ditched, but Mr Reed insisted tougher regulation would be enough to address the problems.

'The very fastest way to tackle this problem is to strengthen regulation and to give the regulator the greater powers they need to crack down on behaviours by the water companies that are allowing this level of pollution to happen.

'The Conservative government has chosen to stand back and do nothing.'

It was reported in June last year that the 'fat cats' at nine water companies were awarded huge pay packages of up to 3.2million per year.

Critics, at the time, slammed the pay packages of the UK's top water bosses as 'excessive' amid concerns around the future of Thames Water - after 14billion debt came to light.

Bosses at nine water companies were paid 13million in just one year, as public outrage over river pollution and ongoing water leaks. The bosses' packages are made up of a base salary, plus benefits and bonuses.

Thames Water's former 2million-a-year chief executive Sarah Bentley announced her shock exit in June after talks of a government bailout.

The Government announced a ban on water company board members and chief executives if a firm has committed serious criminal breaches in February, and said it would come into effect later this year.

The Environment Agency said it is already conducting the largest ever criminal investigation into potentially widespread rule-breaking at thousands of sewage treatment plants.

Environment Agency Director of Water Helen Wakeham said: 'Whilst it is disappointing that water companies have reported an increase in sewage spills in 2023, it is sadly not surprising. We are pleased to see record investment from the water sector, but we know it will take time for this to be reflected in spill data  it is a complex issue that won't be solved overnight.

'No other country has the level of monitoring we do, with 100% of storm overflows in England now fitted with a monitor. We are better placed than ever before to hold water companies accountable  thanks to intelligence from our new whistleblower portal, our plans to expand our specialised workforce, new enforcement powers, increased water company inspections and new tools to inform our enforcement work.'

Water Minister Robbie Moore said: 'I have been clear that sewage pollution in our waters is unacceptable, which is why in just the last few months we announced a consultation to ban water bosses' bonuses when criminal breaches have occurred, quadrupled company inspections next year, fast-tracked 180m investment to cut spills, launched a whistleblowing portal for water company workers to report breaches, and will soon set out our plans to ban wet wipes containing plastic.

'We demanded that 100% of overflows were monitored by the end of last year as part of our drive to improve transparency. Today's data shows water companies must go further and faster to tackle storm overflows and clean up our precious waterways. We will be ensuring the Environment Agency closely scrutinise these findings and take enforcement action where necessary.'

James Wallace, chief executive of campaign group River Action, said: 'The scale of the discharges by water companies is a final indictment of a failing industry.

'Having run amok with billpayers' money for decades, they discharged untreated sewage into rivers and coastal waters more than 3.6 million hours last year from 464,000 spills through storm overflows that are supposed to be only used in extreme weather events.

'That's a 105% increase in the number of hours and a 54% increase on spills on the previous year.

He added: 'Rather than investing in future-proofing their infrastructure, fixing leaky pipes, upgrading wastewater treatment plants, these international businesses have plundered our most precious natural resource, fresh water.'

He called for reform of environmental regulators and for failing water companies to be refinanced and restructured to put people above profits.

The figures are for storm overflows where spill data is available, the Environment Agency said.
Liverpudlians claim their city has become overrun by huge seagulls feasting on litter and food waste, which they have taken to calling 'XL gullies'.

Residents have noticed the larger birds by the beaches in Liverpool, and believe the influx is down to an increase in rubbish being left around the area.

The city council has already spent 9.5million to clean up the litter this financial year, and it is now adding a further 4.6million in a bid to improve cleanliness around the city.

'On Old Hall Street they take your food from you as soon as they see the Greggs bag. They come from nowhere, swoop and it's gone,' Debbie O'Reilly told the Liverpool Echo.

Another resident Phil Murphy said: 'It's the size of them that gets me. They're huge. Some of them are off the scale.'

Liverpool residents have said these seagulls are becoming monstrously large because they are feasting on all the litter and food waste from around the city

The city council has already spent 9.5million to clean up the litter this financial year, and it is now adding a further 4.6million in a bid to improve cleanliness around the city

This month Liverpool City Council launched its 'Spring Clean' campaign, which support schools, community litter picking groups and friends of parks groups, with free materials for participants to collect the rubbish

This month Liverpool City Council launched its 'Spring Clean' campaign, which support schools, community litter picking groups and friends of parks groups, with free materials for participants to collect the rubbish.

Councillor Tom Crone, leader of Liverpool's Green Party, has urged people to be more mindful about their waste and asked locals and tourists not to drop their litter.

He said: 'We are seeing how the populations of animals are changing because of human behaviour. The sheer volume of discarded takeaways we see now are just too good an opportunity for seagulls.

'They are skilled, clever scavengers and the amount of litter and food thrown away is bringing them further in-land. The amount of food left around the city centre is clearly a driver of this behaviour.

'It would be great if people could be a little more mindful about how they are disposing of their litter. There are other issues too - like why we are allowing food companies to create so much disposable waste in the first place.

'There are other issues too - like why we are allowing food companies to create so much disposable waste in the first place.'

One Facebook user revealed a gruesome video of a seagull attacking and then eating a pigeon

'On Old Hall Street they take your food from you as soon as they see the Greggs bag. They come from nowhere, swoop and it's gone,' said Debbie O'Reilly

Councillor Tom Crone, leader of Liverpool's Green Party, has urged people to be more mindful about their waste and asked locals and tourists not to drop their litter

Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and communities, Laura Robertson-Collins, also said that the behaviour of seagulls in the city are a symptom of a throwaway culture

Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and communities, Laura Robertson-Collins, also said that the behaviour of seagulls in the city are a symptom of a throwaway culture.

She told the Liverpool ECHO: 'Hats off to the seagulls to be honest. Why try and eat from an overfished sea when you can come into the city for chips and a kebab?

'They have adapted. I work in the Cunard Building and we have to be very careful when eating a sandwich out in the open around there because they do swoop in.

'But yes, this is a symptom of the habits we have, in as humans, the takeaway culture that means food is always being delivered at the touch of a button and all this litter and mess we see on the streets.'

Some have taken to social media to express their shock at the sheer size of the birds and shed some comical light on the situation.

With one writing: 'Premium quality seagulls, only in Liverpool.'
The top cell phone carriers in the U.S. said they are prepared for an influx of tourists in Texas during the April 8, 2024 total solar eclipse. Getty Images

During the last total solar eclipse in the U.S. in 2017, some cell phone companies reported service issues. Officials in other states in the path of totality, including New York, are also warning of cell phone services being affected by an influx of eclipse tourists this time around. However, the three largest cell phone carriers in the U.S. told Chron that won't be the case in Texas, insisting they have prepared for cell phone service issues and networks that might be overloaded by a high volume of people.

Per an AT&T analysis of network traffic during the 2017 eclipse in the U.S., a more than double spike in SMS activity was recorded during the 24 hours of the eclipse path of totality compared to the same day in the previous week. Within those 24 hours, the carrier also recorded a 40 percent increase in text messaging and a 15 percent jump in voice calls across the path of totality. AT&T experienced a massive outage that impacted customers nationwide in February. The company blamed a software update for the outage.

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The AT&T headquarters in Dallas is located in the path of totality of the April 8, 2024 total solar eclipse. Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

In an official statement, a spokesperson with AT&T told Chron the eclipse "will have no direct operational impact" on the carrier's wireless network. "Our network has drastically changed since the last solar eclipse in 2017," the spokesperson said. The Dallas-based company, whose headquarters are located in the path of the eclipse, added that customers have since gained access to 5G. This means nearly 100 times more devices can be on the network at the same time compared to the capacity of the previous 4G, the spokesperson explained. "Our bandwidth has increased significantly in the last few years, providing for an improved experience on our network as a result," the spokesperson said.

Similarly, a spokesperson for Verizon told Chron it "does not expect any impact from the 2024 solar eclipse on the operation" of its network. "In areas where people may gather to experience this event, we're confident the additional capacity we've layered into the network over the past few years will accommodate any increases in data usage," the spokesperson said.

T-Mobile also said its network is ready for the eclipse. "Our emergency teams are working with state and local officials across the country to provide additional support where needed for large gatherings," the carrier said in a statement. On its website, the company said it is also "deploying additional cell sites" in areas where high eclipse tourist traffic is expected.
Did YOU go to the event or know the models?

Guests at a party for a cryptocurrency company chaired by Lord Philip Hammond were served sushi off scantily clad models, a shocking leaked picture shows.

The image shows a group of men in the red-lacquered room at the five-star Mandrake hotel in central London, with a partially naked man and woman lying motionless on the table in front of them.

A board had been placed on their stomachs while each had a pillow under their heads. Each appeared to be wearing a thin bodysuit.

Lord Hammond, the former Chancellor of the Exchequer, did not attend the private event held by Copper, a company which stores digital assets for its customers.

The man and woman were said to be 'wearing swimming costumes', a source close to Copper told the Financial Times.

They added that the event had 'a lot of razzle dazzle . . . more performative art rather than anything seedy.'

The image shows a group of men in the red-lacquered room at the five-star Mandrake hotel in central London , with a partially naked man and woman lying motionless on the table in front of them

An invitation for the after-party, seen by the Financial Times, said that it would 'Transcend the ordinary at the Copper experience.' Pictured: The Mandrake Hotel

The event played out in the hotel's 20-seater private dining room with the background of a huge champagne fridge. The hotel says the room is 'Ideal for private gatherings, meetings, private dinners and events'

What is Nyotaimori?

Nyotaimori is the Japanese practice of serving sushi on the body of a naked woman. Also known as 'body sushi', it originates from food play with Japanese sex workers in the Edo period - between the 17th and 19th centuries. The practice has been banned in China since 2005, citing public health concerns and moral issues. In its native Japan it is far from mainstream, and rarely even found in their erotic entertainment sector. The dinners have previously been blasted as degrading and objectifying - with some prompting huge protests outside restaurants. Women's rights campaigner Julie Bindel, who visited a Nyotaimori restaurant in 2010, slammed the use of 'human platters'. The less common male equivalent is called nantaimori. Advertisement

The after-party came at the end of a large crypto industry conference in the capital.

The event played out in the hotel's 20-seater private dining room with the background of a huge champagne fridge. The hotel says the room is 'Ideal for private gatherings, meetings, private dinners and events.'

An invitation for the after-party, seen by the financial paper, said that it would 'Transcend the ordinary at the Copper experience.' It continued: 'Attendees will be able to entertain and explore all five senses.'

Lord Hammond was made chair of Copper Technologies in 2023, having previously worked for the company as an advisor.

The firm builds and manages digital systems for companies that want to invest in, trade or use cryptocurrency.

'As part of our sponsorship of the Digital Assets Summit 2024, we jointly hosted an after-party held at the Mandrake Hotel,' Copper told the FT.

It added that the night 'was organised by a third-party event planner and open to all delegates as part of the conference'.

A senior employee for the company also told the newspaper that the event was 'not the typical party set up' - and the industry is 'getting a lot more civilised'.

After joining the firm in 2021, Lord Hammond said that the joining of the worlds of traditional and decentralised finance was 'going to happen'.

'Most institutions know that whether we like it or don't like it  it is going to happen,' he told CityAM.

'It's not something anybody running a major business in financial services can hide from.'

The former Chancellor of the Exchequer Lord Hammond, did not attend the private event held by Copper, a company which stores digital assets for its customers

Guests queue for The Mandrake Hotel launch in September 2017 in London

Imperial College graduate, ex-president of Boy Scouts of America and the former Chancellor of the Exchequer: Board of directors for cryptocurrency firm Copper With Lord Philip Hammond as its Chair, cryptocurrency firm Copper is not short of heavyweight directors. An MP from 1997 to 2019, he served as Chancellor of the Exchequer under Theresa May following nearly a decade in the Privy Council that included time as Foreign Secretary, Defense Secretary and Transport Secretary. Alongside him on their website is the Chairman of Copper Markets Jim Turley - celebrated American business executive and former head of global accounting network Ernst & Young. The high-flying CEO also co-chaired the Russia Foreign Investment Advisory Council and served on the board of directors for the likes of Citigroup, Emerson Electric and Intrexon in an illustrious career. From 2018-19 he served as the National President of the Boy Scouts of America. The company's CEO, meanwhile, is an Imperial College London graduate who was just six years out of university when he founded the crypto firm. Dmitry Tokarev created Copper 'to offer institutional investors a safe entrance into the world of digital assets'. After a year the company won HFMWeek's Hedge Fund Services Award for Best Digital Asset Custodian. Advertisement

Copper, Lord Hammond and the Mandrake Hotel have been contacted for comment.

Self-styled 'crypto bros' have seen the industry with scandals and inappropriate behaviour since it came into being. Men still dominate the biggest companies and are often outspoken.

Eating sushi off nude or semi-nude bodies is offered in dinners styled as authentic Japanese experiences.

Nyotaimori - or body sushi - has been banned in China since 2005, citing public health concerns and moral issues. In its native Japan it is far from mainstream, and rarely even found in their erotic entertainment sector.

Last year Kanye West shocked as he celebrated his 46th birthday with sushi and sashimi displayed on naked women.

With his nine-year-old daughter in attendance, stars including Chloe Bailey, Ty Dolla $ign, and Freddie Gibbs were expected to dine on the deluxe selection served on the female bodies.

'That is so misogynistic omg,' one furious fan wrote, while another said: 'While his daughter was present DONT make sense to me.'

'What exactly is this?? Where's the fun Here? So tomorrow he gonna be preaching about Jesus Christ and morals,' another wrote.

Women's rights campaigner Julie Bindel, who visited a Nyotaimori restaurant in 2010, slammed the use of 'human platters'.

Writing about the experience for The Guardian, she said: 'Not for the first time that evening, I wished I was outside in the freezing cold, shouting and waving a placard.'

A Japanese restaurant in the south-west Chinese city of Kunming was banned from offering the 'feast on a beauty's body' after a storm of controversy in 2004.

Health authorities ordered the meals to end after a sanatation investigation at the restaurant which hired two college girls to lie on the tables, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

The Bonzai nightclub in Seattle was targeted by feminist groups in 2003 when it started to promote body sushi nights.

Kanye West SLAMMED for serving sushi on nude women's bodies at 46th birthday party - where his daughter North, nine, was accompanied by his new 'wife' Bianca Censori

'This is definitely not harmless,' Norma Timbang, the executive director of the Asian and Pacific Islander Women and Family Safety Center told NBC News at the time.

'We are saying to men that it's OK to perpetrate the objectification of women. It's OK to treat women as if she is an object, and it's OK to forget that she's a human being. I think that's the wrong message to send.'

Seven volunteer models worked in 30-minute shifts, wearing a thong and celophane.

Naked sushi also appeared in cop thriller Rising Sun, starring Wesley Snipes, Sean Connery and Steve Buscemi.
The attack left at more than 140 people dead and around 180 injured

Volodymyr Zelensky, Olaf Scholz and Emmanuel Macron also appear on the page

Rishi Sunak, Boris Johnson and Joe Biden were shown 'burning in hell' on the front page of Russian state newspaper with the headline blaming the trio for the Moscow concert hall massacre.

The bizarre cover of Arguments and Facts saw a giant fiery box in the centre of the page, depicting images of the Western leaders - including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky - set alight.

In a clear attempt from Russia to point the finger of blame at Ukraine and the West, following the catastrophic Crocus City attack on March 22, the extraordinary image was plastered onto the front page.

Above the photo was a chilling headline that read: 'We know the architects of the Crocus City terrorist attack. And we know who organised it.

'May they burn in hell.

The bizarre cover of Arguments and Facts saw a giant fiery box in the centre of the page, depicting images of the Western leaders. The headline included the phrase: 'May they burn in hell'

'All this about Islamic State is rubbish. Let them tell this to each other,' it continued.

Judging by the image whipped up by the Moscow government-owned newspaper, by 'them' they are referring to the six figures seen 'burning in hell'.

On the far left is a photo of President Zelensky, with a stone cold face.

He is placed next to US President Joe Biden, in a snap of what appears to be taken from a previous speech he has delivered.

Olaf Scholz, the chancellor of Germany, and Emmanuel Macron, President of France, also made an appearance in the middle of the burning group.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson make up the far right side of the flame-ridden photo.

Following on from the front page is an entire article alleging the Wests' link to the terrorist attack.

READ HERE: Russia arrests 11 Moscow massacre suspects as they reveal names and pictures of those they believe behind ISIS concert hall slaughter as death toll rises to 115 and pictures reveal bloody aftermath Advertisement

One article headline reads: 'An American footprint in the Crocus tragedy?'

It argues: 'Terrorism was the standard tool of the West for decades'.

The bizarre blame-game comes even after the Islamic State admitted to carrying out the attack on the Crocus City concert hall, in Krasnogorsk.

There is no evidence of Ukraine or the West being involved in the massacre, which left at more than 140 people dead and around 180 injured.

This wasn't the only Russian front page to throw accusations at the West regarding their involvement in the attack, however.

The front page of Komsomolskaya Pravda, a daily Russian tabloid, carried the front page headline: 'In Ukraine they were preparing to give the terrorists a hero's welcome home' - a statement allegedly said by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) director Alexander Bortnikov.

In the article that follows, he responds to a question on whether he thinks the US, Britain and Ukraine are responsible for the attack with: 'We think so'.

He also made claimed in the government-owned newspaper Rossiyskaya Gazette: 'The Ukrainian side has been involved in training militants in the Middle East'.

It comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed revenge after brutal attack on the Moscow venue.

The 71-year-old tyrant revealed that the four assailants that carried out the 'barbaric terrorist act' had been 'captured and detained' and warned that all those responsible 'would be punished'.

Russian law enforcement revealed pictures and names of the four suspects: Makhmadrasul Nasridinov, 27, Rivozhidin Ismonov, 51, Shokhindzhonn Safolzoda, 21, and Rustam Nazarov, 29.

Russian media share pictures of four suspected terrorists, in the Crocus concert hall massacre in Moscow, giving their names as (clockwise from the left) Makhmadrasul Nasridinov, 27, Rivozhidin Ismonov, 51, Shokhindzhonn Safolzoda, 21, Rustam Nazarov, 29

Images of the suspected gunmen who opened fire at Crocus City Hall, in Krasnogorsk, Moscow

The burnt remains of the Crocus City Hall concert hall following the March 22 massacre

On March 22 the four gunmen dressed in combat gear opened fire at the Crocus City Hall, before setting it alight.

Putin said the attackers had sought to escape towards Ukraine and that preliminary information showed that some people on the Ukrainian side had prepared to let them cross the border from Russia.

He warned in a televised address to the nation on Saturday: 'It is already obvious that we are faced not just with a carefully and cynically planned terrorist attack, but with the organised mass murder of peaceful defenceless people.

'The criminals were cold-blooded and purposefully going to kill, shoot our citizens at point-blank range - our children.

'Like the Nazis who once carried out massacres in the occupied territories, they planned to arrange a demonstrative execution, a bloody act of intimidation.

'All the perpetrators, organisers and those who ordered this crime will be justly and inevitably punished.

Russian investigators worked inside Crocus City Hall concert venue following the terrorist attack

'Whoever they are, whoever is guiding them. I repeat, we will identify and punish everyone who stands behind the terrorists, who prepared this atrocity, this strike against Russia, against our people'.

However, ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack, which they claimed came 'within the context of a raging war between the Islamic State and countries fighting Islam'.

After admitting their involvement, the terrorist group released a gruesome video taken from the bodycam of one of the attackers, which showed people getting gunned down with automatic rifles and one concertgoer getting their throat cut.
Penny Mordaunt has fuelled rumours she is 'on manoeuvres' to succeed Rishi Sunak as Tory leader by boasting of her extensive engagement with local party members.

The Leader of the House of Commons revealed how she has made more than 70 visits to local Conservative associations since Mr Sunak became Prime Minister.

Ms Mordaunt crowed about how her visits had 'raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for our prospective candidates, incumbent MPs and local associations'.

And she vowed to 'continue such visits in the coming weeks and month' ahead of the general election.

The Cabinet minister's comments will lead to further speculation that Ms Mordaunt is positioning herself as Mr Sunak's replacement.

It follows recent reports she is being lined up as a potential unity candidate to succeed the PM with support from both Tory moderates and right-wingers.

Rebel MPs who want to topple Mr Sunak before the general election are said to be targeting the May bank holiday for a potential push against the PM.

This would follow an expected drubbing for the Tories at the local elections on 2 May, with Mr Sunak last night warned the Conservatives are on course to lose up to 500 seats  half their councillors facing election.

Penny Mordaunt has fuelled rumours she is 'on manoeuvres' to succeed Rishi Sunak as Tory leader by boasting of her extensive engagement with local party members

It follows recent reports Ms Mordaunt is being lined up as a potential unity candidate to succeed the PM with support from both Tory moderates and right-wingers

Mr Sunak has been warned the Conservatives are on course to lose up to 500 seats  half their councillors facing election - during local contests on 2 May

Ms Mordaunt revealed her recent extensive engagement with local Tory associations in a letter to the Daily Telegraph

Polling experts Professor Colin Rallings and Professor Michael Thrasher, associate members of Nuffield College, Oxford, said Tory losses on 2 May are 'inevitable'.

Ms Mordaunt revealed her recent extensive engagement with local Tory associations in a letter to the Daily Telegraph today.

The newspaper last week reported how the Commons Leader had made 40 trips to Tory association events across the UK since Mr Sunak became PM.

But Ms Mordaunt corrected the figure, writing in her letter: 'In fact, I have made more than 70 such visits, excluding those in a ministerial capacity and any fundraising and campaigning organised by Conservative Campaign Headquarters.

'I am pleased to have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for our prospective candidates, incumbent MPs and local associations, and I intend to continue such visits in the coming weeks and months.

'Ill be right there with them, campaigning on the doorstep and lending my support to ensure these fine people secure their seats in Parliament.

'My motivation for doing so is straightforward: to support the campaign frontline against the threat of a Labour government.'

In its report last week, the Daily Telegraph revealed how Ms Mordaunt had travelled to Glasgow, Bolton, Ribble Valley, Altrincham, Anglesey, Brecon and Somerset to meet Tory grassroots members, along with many events nearer London.

These included an event titled 'The Sword of Truth Black Tie Dinner' in a nod to Ms Mordaunt's role in King Charles' coronation, during which she stood for hours holding the Sword of State.

Another event for the Cities of London and Westminster Conservatives was titled 'Puddings with Penny' and hailed Ms Mordaunt as 'a terrific speaker with huge experience, and will travel far in British politics'.

It was also reported how, at a charity auction hosted by the University of Warwick Conservative Association last June, a wooden sword signed by Ms Mordaunt fetched 350.

Although speculation about Mr Sunak's future has eased recently, there is a widespread expectation that a dire showing by the Tories on 2 May will lead to further questions about the PM's leadership ahead of the general election.

In an article for the Local Government Chronicle, Prof. Rallings and Prof. Thrasher pointed to how the Tories are defending many council seats at the local elections that were last contested at a high point in Boris Johnson's premiership.

A good proportion of the seats falling vacant this year were last fought in 2021 when the Johnson government was still enjoying something of a post-Brexit, mid-covid honeymoon,' they wrote.

'His party scored 40 per cent in our annual calculation of the national equivalent vote (NEV), fully 10 points ahead of Labour and its best showing since 2008.

'Such a high water mark means Conservative losses are inevitable.'

They added: 'If the Conservatives repeat their poor performance of 2023, when the NEV put them below 30 per cent, they stand to lose up to 500 seats  half their councillors facing election.'
A grandfather who threatened to strangle Sir Keir Starmer and shoot James Cleverly in sweary emails has narrowly avoided jail.

Retired welder Berthold Dwinger sent the 'malicious' and 'threatening' emails to the offices of both prominent MPs to voice his concerns on current affairs such as the conflict in Gaza.

The 74-year-old, from Littleport in Cambridgeshire, told Home Secretary Mr Cleverly he was 'lucky' we didn't have guns in the UK because he'd 'shoot' him and 'every single one of you front bench b******s'.

Just a month later, frustrated at the opposition leader's position on the conflict in Gaza, the father-of-three sent an expletive-riddled email all in capitals to Sir Keir, telling him his party were 'no better than the Tories' and that they were 'two cheeks of the same a**e'.

When later questioned by police about his comments, he told officers he stood by his words that he would strangle Sir Keir - despite dismissing the threatening nature of his email by referring to Starmer as a 'poor boy'.

Dwinger was handed a four-month suspended prison sentence suspended for two years.

Retired welder Berthold Dwinger (pictured), from Littleport in Cambridgeshire, sent both politicians expletive-filled emails

The 74-year-old stood by his words that he would strangle Sir Keir Starmer when asked by police officers

He was also slapped with a restraining order not to contact either Sir Keir or Mr Cleverly for two years.

In a statement to the court, Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle decried the emails as putting 'democracy itself at risk' in potentially scaring MPs into leaving their posts.

He also referred to the deaths of both MP Jo Cox in 2016 and Sir David Amess in 2021, adding that MPs should be able to perform their duties in 'an environment of safety'.

Dwinger had previously admitted two charges contrary to the 2003 Communications Act.

Prosecutor Thomas Murphy told the sentencing hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court that Dwinger had sent an email to the office of James Cleverly MP on December 9 with a subject line reading: 'You are lacking moral compass'.

The email, focusing on no political subject in particular, called Cleverly 'incompetent' and told him he needed 'removing from any kind of power'.

Dwinger also said: 'Lucky we don't have guns or I would shoot every single one of you front bench b******s. You are toast* You ugly p***k. B. Dwinger.'

Another email sent to the offices of Sir Keir on January 13, which was all in caps and had the subject line 'Zionism', began: 'You despicable sack of s****'

The email, which also accused Starmer of 'continuing to support a genocide in Gaza' and called him 'delusional' and 'corrupt', added: 'I could strangle you with my bare hands.

'You b******s are no better than the Tories - two cheeks of the same a**e. You are the dregs of society. C***. B. Dwinger.'

Though neither Cleverly nor Starmer gave impact statements to the court, members of their office management who read the emails rated them as 'nine-out-of-ten' and 'ten-out-of-ten' respectively in terms of offensiveness.

Mr Murphy called the emails 'menacing' and 'sinister', adding that when arrested for the emails, he told officers he stood by his threatening words.

Dwinger told Home Secretary Mr Cleverly he was 'lucky' we didn't have guns in the UK as he'd 'shoot' him

The prosecutor told the court: 'Dwinger said: "I send more messages to people. Sunak and the lot".

'When asked about saying to Starmer "I would strangle [him] with bare hands", the defendant stated: "Oh yeah, I would. I told them what I thought of them".

'When asked if he thought his words caused Starmer alarm or distress, he replied: "Poor boy". The Crown would argue that behaviour caused fear of violence.'

Defending Dwinger, his lawyer Ms Hadid told the court her client has three children and five grandchildren and moved to the UK from his native Germany when he was 22 years old.

She said of the emails: 'It was an angry outburst of his views at the time and he had no intention to cause physical harm. He's a 74-year-old man who comes from a different generation. It's an out-of-character incident.'

But District Judge Daniel Sternberg retorted: 'The statement of Sir Lindsay Hoyle reminds me that since 2016, two current or former Members of Parliament have been murdered: Jo Cox and Sir David Amess. That is also part of the context in this sentencing.'

DJ Sternberg handed Dwinger a four-month prison term, but suspended it for two years, taking into account the defendant's age and the fact he cares for a friend.

He said: 'Sir Lindsay Hoyle, in his statement, says that democracy itself is at risk if MPs don't stand for reelection or change how they act in Parliament.

'They should be able to perform their democratic tasks in an environment of safety. There's no doubt that your emails were threatening, malicious and grossly offensive.'

As well as his suspended sentence, DJ Sternberg ordered Dwinger to pay 239 in costs and victim surcharge and complete a hundred hours of unpaid work.
Peers are set to sign off huge hikes in their allowances today meaning that they can get the equivalent of 100,000 a year.

The tax-free daily allowance in the House of Lords is due to rise from 342 to 360 next month in line with the 5.5 per cent increase in MPs' salaries.

But peers are also due to rubber stamp a change so members who live outside London can receive 100 a night for hotels - something that was previously seen as covered by the per diem.

With around 150 sitting days a year on average, that suggests some peers will get 69,000 in total.

It would require a pre-tax salary of roughly 100,000 to take home that amount.

The future of the House of Lords has risen up the political agenda amid the standoff between the government, peers and bishops over the Rwanda Bill.

Peers will now be able to charge taxpayers for hotel stays for the first time (File Image)

The daily allowance in the House of Lords is set to rise from 342 to 360 next month, in line with the pay increase granted to MPs

Keir Starmer has pledged to scrap the chamber, although he has been steadily backing away from any concrete plans on how that would happen.

Although peers are not paid salaries, they can claim for every day they attend.

Under the motion table in the Lords today, from April 15 they are also set to be able to claim up to 100 a night when they stay in London on parliamentary business.

Around 340 peers who are listed as having main residences outside of the capital would be eligible.

It has been agreed by all three major political parties after concerns from peers that the high cost of staying in the capital is unfair to those who live elsewhere.

'We recommend that a new allowance should be introduced for overnight accommodation for Members from outside Greater London,' a report published by the House of Lords Commission last week stated.

'Members attending the House from outside London face greater barriers to attendance. We consider it important that voices from across the country should be heard in the House of Lords and that the scheme for financial support for Members should enable this.'

The new rules will only apply to peers with registered residential addresses outside Greater London.

Peers will have to submit receipts for 'hotels, clubs or similar accommodation' - although they will not be able to claim for letting from private landlords.

The future of the House of Lords has risen up the political agenda amid the standoff between the government, peers and bishops over the Rwanda Bill

Lords daily allowances are increasing by the same proportion as MPs' salaries from next month

The report said: 'Claims for the overnight allowance are only permissible in respect of nights actually spent in Greater London for each day of recorded attendance or a night which falls immediately before a day of recorded attendance. The number of overnight claims cannot exceed the number of recorded attendances a Member has in a given week.'

Current rules allow peers to claim on 'attendance travel costs' including mileage, rail fares and even plane tickets if they live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

Sessional returns show that the average length of the sitting day in 2022-23 was six hours and 32 minutes, although peers could have been working outside the chamber.
The man arrested over her death is in jail for the death of another patient

This is the British woman whose death following a botched 6,000 'boob job' in Majorca is now at the centre of an international police investigation.

Donna Butterfield, 30, from Wrexham, Clwyd, was a successful beauty entrepreneur with her own hair extension business which she operated under the name 'Donna Bee' and 'BeeWeavible'.

A family source told MailOnline she had undergone a breast enlargement operation by the same surgeon in Majorca several years ago, but wanted to have a slight imbalance corrected.

But it is understood that pre-op consultations were largely conducted by WhatsApp messages and when the procedure went wrong on the operating table last September, the surgeon had no next-of-kin details for her, and instead contacted a friend of her using an Instagram message.

Donna, who had a pre-existing heart condition, suffered a heart attack, possibly as a reaction to the anaesthetic and went into a cardiac arrest, and died two weeks later.

Donna Butterfield, 30, from Wrexham, Clwyd, was a successful beauty entrepreneur with her own hair extension business

A family source told MailOnline she had undergone a breast enlargement operation by the same surgeon in Majorca several years ago, but wanted to have a slight imbalance corrected

It has now emerged that Mateo Verd Vallespir (pictured), an anaesthetist arrested over her death is currently serving prison time for the manslaughter of another patient

Friends of Donna's were given a garbled, conflicting account accompanied by 'lots of hand gestures' of what went wrong by the 'extremely nervous' surgeon when they attended the Clinica Luz in Palma.

But it is understood that paramedics called to the clinic were horrified by what they found and that CPR had not been properly undertaken and reported the incident to police.

Doctors at Son Espases Hospital in Palma put Donna into an induced coma after she suffered catastrophic brain damage, but she never recovered.

Her brother Darren, and later her mother and step-father, all flew to Majorca to keep a vigil by her bedside, praying for her recovery.

Darren and friends back home set up a crowd-funding appeal, which raised 26,000 for her repatriation, but in vain.

They wrote on the Gofundme page: 'Our beautiful Donna Bee is in severe condition and is fighting for her life, It's really hard for us to go into details fully because a lot has happened and it will all go under investigation.

'She went into surgery and had a heart attack during and then reaction from the anaesthetic and went into a cardiac arrest followed by a coma and she's now in an induced coma on life support.

'She's had a CT scan and has severe brain damage. She is slowly now being taken off the medication to see if she can cope alone.

'Either way the outcome we need to get our baby girl home, she is in the hospital in Palma, Mallorca.

'Her family are now over there by her side, as close friends to Donna we want to do everything we can to help her and her family in any way possible in these extremely difficult times.'

Following Donna's death, her best friend Jenna Bagnall posted on Facebook: 'Thank you to everyone who has taken part or is even still taking part in the funds raised to bring Donna home and ease the financial situations facing Donna's family and giving her best funeral we possible could.

'Because of everyone's efforts Donna is now back home in Wrexham where she belongs. None of this would of been possible without you.

'The pain we are all going through especially her family has been eased and could not be more thankful to every donation, share and message received during these last few weeks.'

The news came as it emerged that an anaesthetist arrested over the death is currently serving prison time for the manslaughter of another patient.

Mateo Verd Vallespir, 69, was read his rights after being hauled out of jail and accused of gross negligence manslaughter in the new case of alleged malpractice.

Doctors at Son Espases Hospital in Palma put Donna into an induced coma after she suffered catastrophic brain damage, but she never recovered

Her family were told about her medical emergency though an Instagram message

Today, as martial arts expert Verd Vallespir was pictured for the first time, details of the criminal past he hid from his tragic patient emerged as police confirmed he had flouted a medical ban linked to previous offences to continue operating before being ordered to start serving his prison terms.

In June last year he was handed a one-year jail sentence and given a three-year striking-off order prohibiting him from working as a health practitioner or running medical clinics.

Verd Vallespir, who taught Aikido before being incarcerated, learnt his fate after being convicted of manslaughter following the March 7 2017 death of 45-year-old Fatima Cherkaoui a day after a liposuction.

He was the anaesthetist during the op at another medical centre he ran in Palma before he took over the management of a clinic called Clinica Luz in the Majorcan capital where the British woman had her cosmetic surgery.

The surgeon who operated on Fatima was also convicted of manslaughter and given a one year jail sentence.

Judges concluded their medical negligence led to the victim's cardiac arrest and haemorrhaging.

Verd Vallespir had already been sentenced to two and a half years in prison at the end of 2021 for getting unqualified staff at the clinic where Fatima's fatal operation took place to perform nursing duties.

Local reports overnight said cleaners at his clinic were asked to take blood from patients.

He wasn't ordered to start serving his jail terms immediately as is often the case in countries like Spain where convicted criminals are often spared automatic incarceration pending possible appeals.

Police in Majorca accused him yesterday when they revealed he had been arrested again of taking advantage of the delay in the execution of his prison sentences to take part in the British woman's surgery.

Verd Vallespir was described as the director of Clinica Luz as well as its anaesthetist shortly before the operation.

A second man described by investigators as a 'helper' is also being investigated for alleged manslaughter, although he hasn't been formally arrested.

The surgeon who performed the op cannot be prosecuted because he died of illness late last year.

Confirming the arrest a spokesman for the National Police in Majorca said yesterday: 'National Police officers have arrested a 69-year-old man responsible for managing a clinic in Palma where he also worked as a practitioner, for crimes of gross negligence manslaughter and breaching a medical ban following the death of a patient.

'A young woman of British origin underwent cosmetic surgery at a clinic in Palma.

'During the operation and for reasons which are still being investigated, the victim went into cardiac arrest and had to be transferred urgently to Son Espases University Hospital.

Her family has so far raised 26,000 to repatriate her body

Donna suffered a pre-existing heart condition

'After being admitted to intensive care for almost two weeks, she died on September 13 last year as a result of the serious injuries she suffered during her cardiac arrest.'

Saying the family had lodged a complaint for mala praxis against the health professionals involved, the National Police in Majorca added in a statement: 'Our homicide unit began an investigation and after gathering together all the documentation related to the medical intervention and taking statements from health professionals, arrested the director of the clinic who was also a medical practitioner.

'Investigators have accused one of the other two health professionals who participated in the surgery of the same type of manslaughter crime as the clinic director.

'The other man cannot be accused of any crime due to his sudden death two months after the surgery.'

The force said it had detected several irregularities during its investigation, adding: 'One involved the victim asking the health professionals to practice a second cosmetic procedure as she went into the operating theatre, something they agreed to perform without the patient having been properly informed of the risks.

'It was when they were preparing to perform that second surgery that the victim went into cardiac arrest.

'Another irregularity detected was that the patient signed consent forms for the scheduled surgery the morning the surgery took place and they were written in Spanish when the British woman according to her family didn't know how to read Spanish.'

Confirming the arrest occurred after the suspect was hauled out of prison, the National Police spokesman said: 'The practitioner who was arrested was in prison for another issue related to the exercising of his profession.

Verd Vallespir is known for his love of martial arts

Donna died at just 30-years-old

'Officers had to ask for his release from prison so he could be informed of this new charge before he was returned to jail afterwards.

'He had been disqualified from practicing medicine and holding positions of responsibility in health centres and despite that ignored the ban to take part in the surgery the dead woman underwent.'

The surgeon who died was described as a 'foreign' man who flew to Majorca where he had 'worked for decades' to perform the surgery but his nationality was never made public.

Clinica Luz in Palma remains open. A receptionist who answered the phone yesterday afternoon declined to comment.

There is no suggestion any of the current managers of the clinic have been involved in any alleged wrongdoing over the death of the British patient.

The clinic boasts on its website: 'At Clinica Luz we are differentiated by medical care that is very focused on each patient, with the warmth and comfort of doing it in an ideal environment.

'Our clinic in Palma is next to the castle and natural park of Bellver, an environment of peace and energy, with a panoramic view of the Bay of Palma, Cathedral and Castle.

'Clinica Luz has a high level medical team to give you a quick and effective medical response. In addition to all the value provided by our specialists, we have the great advantage of having our own laboratory and specialists in Pathological Anatomy, which speeds up and facilitates the performance of the tests requested by the specialists.

'We treat very different patients, but with all of them we put into practice our maxim: to achieve a perfect harmony with them.'
The party's surge in the polls has led to panic in Downing Street , and talk about a return to frontline politics for Nigel Farage. But a Mail on Sunday investigation into the candidates selected to stand at the next election for Reform UK - the successor to Mr Farage's Brexit Party - has revealed that the potential MPs include a convicted animal abuser and a fortune-teller who sold spells for 200 on the pornography-dominated site OnlyFans . Other candidates have also shared anti-Semitic, far-Right, racist and sexist material and spread Covid misinformation. Some polls have put Reform UK, which is led by Richard Tice, just four per cent behind the Conservatives, which if replicated in a general election would split the Tory vote and contribute to a landslide for Sir Keir Starmer 's Labour . Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said that 'a vote for Reform is a vote for Labour', but the warning has not dented the party's polling rise.
Have YOU wrongly had bailiffs at your door?

Scottish Power has apologised after wrongly sending bailiffs around to a new mother's address while she was breastfeeding her baby.

Jess Bramley, 31, and her partner Jonathon Williams, 33, chose to stay with their previous energy supplier EDF after moving into a new home in Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, in March 2021.

But soon, they began receiving bills for gas from Scottish Power - despite never setting up an account with the firm.

They received a welcome pack from the energy company in August 2022, over a year after they moved into the property.

Ms Bramley says she was breastfeeding when she was disturbed by a knock on the door in October 2023 - which turned out to be bailiffs sent by Scottish Power, demanding settlement over a 3,400 energy bill.

Jess Bramley, 31, and her partner Jonathon Williams, 33, (pictured with their baby girl) chose to stay with their previous energy supplier EDF after moving into a home in Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, in March 2021

Ms Bramley says she was breastfeeding when she was disturbed by a knock on the door in October 2023 - which turned out to be bailiffs sent by Scottish Power, demanding settlement over a 3,400 energy bill.

The energy ombudsman launched a probe and has ruled that EDF are the sole suppliers to the property.

Scottish Power has now apologised.

Ms Bramley, a team manager, said: 'The whole thing has made me feel awful.

'I'd just given birth to my baby girl and was upstairs breastfeeding when there was a knock on the door.

'It was bailiffs from Scottish Power saying they were going to take legal action and put in prepaid meter.

'I was beside myself - you can't do this to a young mum.

'If I wasn't on maternity leave, I don't know how a normal person would have to deal with all the calls.

'EDF have confirmed they are responsible for the full supply to our house.

'They always say sorry for inconvenience but that's ridiculous - they made my life hell.'

Quotes from the Energy Ombusman ruling said: 'EDF are the supplier of this meter.

'Despite the dispute, [Scottish Power] tried several times to obtain up to date reads even though their accounts did not show the correct read history for you.

'They also sent the debt to debt collectors and sent bailiffs to you despite the account liability being in dispute and you constantly explaining that you had an active account with another supplier.

'We see this as a shortfall of service and we will ask Scottish Power to cancel all bills, cancel your account and pay a direct goodwill payment.'

A spokesperson for Scottish Power said: 'We are sorry for the inconvenience and frustration experienced by Ms Bramley.

'We have contacted the second supplier and advised them of the correct details to hold for Ms Bramley's account, both on their system as well as the national database.

'We have also issued a letter of apology and are in the process of closing the account opened for the property, cancelling its billing history in line with the Ombudsman's decision.

'In recognition of her experience, we have issued a payment of goodwill to Ms Bramley.'
Aussies are being slugged with some of the highest grocery prices anywhere in the world, a fed-up Labor MP has claimed.

The skyrocketing prices Australian shoppers pay for meat, dairy and fruit has prompted the global bosses of multinational food companies to dub the country 'Treasure Island'.

'They call it a place where you can charge higher prices and make bigger profits than other countries around the world,' Labor MP Andrew Charlton told Sky News Australia.

Mr Charlton, who previously worked as a senior executive at Coles, said Aussies are being hit with 'very high prices for groceries'.

'In fact, Australians pay 54 per cent more than the world average for food and that's been established by a number of sources,' he added.

The skyrocketing prices Australian consumers pay for meat, dairy and fruit has prompted the global bosses of multinational food companies to dub the country 'Treasure Island' (stock image)

The revelations have piled the pressure on the government to break up the power of Australia's supermarket duopoly between Coles (pictured) and Woolworths

READ MORE: Maverick MP's wild supermarket rant as he launches crackdown on the Coles and Woolworths monopoly that's sent prices soaring: 'Disgraceful' Independent MP Bob Katter has introduced his Bill to reduce the market power of Australia's major supermarket chains Advertisement

'What that means is, if something costs $10 in another country, Australians might be paying $15 for it.

'Australians are entitled to ask why - why when we're a nation that produces so much food, are we being charged such high prices?'

Mr Charlton cited World Bank data which reportedly shows that Aussies pay over 105 per cent more than the world average for vegetables, 73 per cent more for bread and 63 per cent more for seafood.

Meanwhile, they pay up to 85 per cent more than the rest of the world for beer and wine.

Mr Charlton said 80 per cent of beers sold in the country are owned by two foreign companies.

'Those two foreign companies have amassed 80 per cent market share and they charge Australians some of the highest beer prices in the world,' he explained.

The revelations have piled the pressure on the government to break up the power of Australia's supermarket 'duopoly' between Coles and Woolworths.

The Greens divestiture bill, which is currently before the Senate, aims to break up the power of the big supermarkets if they are found to be misusing their market dominance.

Meanwhile, the Nationals and Liberals are working on their own bill, with Nationals leader David Littleproud telling Seven they are looking 'solely at the supermarkets'.

Mr Charlton cited World Bank data which reportedly shows that Aussies pay over 105 per cent more than the world average for vegetables, 73 per cent more for bread and 63 per cent more for seafood

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ordered several inquires into the supermarkets' pricing practices

The government has rejected these proposals, citing potential job losses at the big supermarkets if such laws to be introduced.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has instead ordered several inquires into the supermarkets' pricing practices.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is currently investigating allegations of price gouging at Coles and Woolworths, while former Labor minister Craig Emerson is spearheading a Food and Grocery Code of Conduct Review.
A woman in her 30s has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a nine-year-old boy was killed in a car crash with a van and a cattle truck.

The suspect and the youngster were travelling in a Citroen DS9 when it collided with a Ford Transit van and a DAF cattle transporter truck and trailer on a country road.

The boy was pronounced dead at the scene on the A354 at East Woodyates, near Blandford, Dorset.

The woman, who is aged in her 30s and was known to the boy, was arrested on suspicion of murder following the incident at 5.21am on Monday.

She was taken to hospital for minor injuries she suffered in the crash before being released into police custody.

A motorist in her 30s is being held by police on suspicion of murdering a nine-year-old boy who died in a car crash

The suspect and the youngster were travelling in a Citroen DS9 car when it collided with a Ford Transit van and a DAF cattle transporter truck and trailer on the A354 (pictured) at East Woodyates, Dorset

Dorset Police confirmed that she remains in custody today.

Both the woman and the boy are from the Hampshire area.

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Third, of Dorset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team, said: 'First and foremost, our thoughts are with the loved ones of the young boy during this very difficult time.

'A number of initial lines of enquiry have been carried out and detectives are now undertaking an investigation to establish the full circumstances of what happened.

'I would ask any witnesses who have not already spoken to police, or anyone who may have captured relevant dashcam footage, to please come forward.

'Also, I am keen to speak to anyone who may have seen the manner of driving of any of the vehicles involved prior to the incident.

'A detailed scene examination was carried out overnight and I would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding during the road closure.'
Trending in China | Guozhuang dance: A Tibetan tradition uniting communities through song and movement

(People's Daily App) 16:14, March 27, 2024

Guozhuang is a traditional Tibetan dance involving singing and dancing in a circle. It has its roots in the ancient practice of gathering around a campfire, symbolizing unity and camaraderie among the Tibetan people. More than just a dance, Guozhuang is a significant aspect of Tibetan culture that facilitates emotional expression, encourages dialogue and fosters strong connections within the community.

(Video source: Kuaishou)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Chatbots could take over eight million jobs in the UK - and women will be worst affected, a leading think tank has warned.

Analysis has found nearly two-thirds of tasks carried out by workers could be automated by AI, with admin and entry-level jobs most at risk.

But the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) claims the jobs apocalypse is not inevitable if the Government acts fast to ensure humans are not replaced.

With the right regulation and fiscal incentives, it has estimated AI could instead boost the UK economy by 306bn - and even increase salaries for some by over a third.

The report is the first of its kind to look at the impact of generative AI - the technology that mimics the human brain in generating text, images, and videos from scratch - on the UK labour market.

Analysis has found nearly two-thirds of tasks carried out by workers could be automated by AI, with admin and entry-level jobs most at risk. Pictured: File photo

With the right regulation and fiscal incentives, it has estimated AI could instead boost the UK economy by 306bn - and even increase salaries for some by over a third. Pictured: File photo

Researchers analysed 22,000 tasks carried out by humans, covering every type of job, and found AI was likely to affect the economy in two waves.

In the first wave, which is already underway, one in 10 employees are already exposed to automation, with secretarial and customer jobs most at risk.

Women will be worst affected as they are more likely to be in these jobs, while young people will also suffer as firms hire fewer entry-level jobs.

However, 59 per cent per cent of jobs considered by the study could be affected by AIs second wave - and would increasingly include higher-earning posts.

The worst case scenario would see 7.9 million job losses, the report found.

This is a real possibility without government action and if companies are left to their own devices, it warns, recommending regulation and fiscal incentives to ensure peoples jobs adapt to AI rather than replaced.

If it does so, the best case scenario could lead to no job losses and an economic boost of 13 per cent to GDP.

The report suggests AI could also boost wages, with huge increases of more than 30 per cent in some cases, although none for others.

In the first wave, which is already underway, one in 10 employees are already exposed to automation, with secretarial and customer jobs most at risk. Pictured: File photo

It could also free up more workers in industries struggling with chronic staff shortages, such as social care and mental health services.

Report author Carsten Jung, senior economist at IPPR, said generative AI had the potential to be a game changer for millions of us over the next five years.

He said; The question now is less whether AI can be useful, but rather how fast and in what manner employers will use it.

History show that technological transition can be a boon if well managed, or can end in disruption if left to unfold without controls.

But technology isnt destiny and a jobs apocalypse is not inevitable - government, employers and unions have the opportunity to make crucial design decisions now that ensure we manage this new technology well.

If they dont act soon, it may be too late.

Co-author Bhargav Srinivasa Desikan, senior research fellow at IPPR, said: We are at a sliding doors moment, and policy makers urgently to develop a strategy to make sure our labour market adapts to the 21st century, without leaving millions behind.

It is crucial that all workers benefit from these technological advancements, and not just the big tech corporations.
The wife of Oregon governor Tina Kotek has claimed she's a mentally-ill alcoholic amid a growing nepotism scandal that has seen the Democrat's ethics questioned.

Aimee Kotek Wilson announced on Tuesday that she is in recovery from alcoholism but did not specify what kind of mental illness she lives with, as reported by Oregon Live.

'I share this information about myself now, and have in the past, in the hopes it will make a difference and reduce stigma,' Wilson said in a statement.

'Far too often, individuals have remained silent about their experience because of shame, pain, and fear... And, that is why it is so important for me to do my part to reduce the stigma around addiction and mental health.'

Wilson's comments come as news organizations have been questioning her new role in Kotek's administration, which includes a security detail while she attends events on the governor's behalf. The funds to pay for the extra security will come out of the existing governor's budget.

The wife of Oregon governor Tina Kotek, Aimee Kotek Wilson, announced on Tuesday that she is in recovery from alcoholism

Wilson's comment come as news organizations have been questioning her new role in Kotek's administration, which includes a security detail funded by the state

The couple is seen with vice president Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff

Kotek has also hired an adviser to look into a possible 'Office of the First Spouse'; the adviser, Meliah Masiba, will be paid $72,000 for six months of work.

The governor's wife, who previously worked as a social worker, has reportedly been attending some weekly policy meetings on mental health and addiction initiatives. Wilson has also taken part in most of Kotek's meetings with mental health and substance abuse providers regarding the topic.

Additionally, three of Kotek's top aides, including her chief of staff, have left her office over tensions with Wilson.

The Oregon Government Ethics Commission said on Monday it has received a complaint connected to Kotek and has opened a preliminary review of the complaint.

The commission will later vote on whether to open an investigation into the matter.

DailyMail.com has reached out to the governor's office for comment on this story.

Questions regarding Kotek's inclusion of Wilson in her administration come after former Gov. John Kitzhabers and his fiancee Cylvia Hayes were accused of ethical concerns.

The commission will later vote on whether to open an investigation into the matter

Hayes played an active role in Kitzhaber's third term, attending meetings, communicating with state officials and helping him push for environmental and clean energy policies.

At the same time, she did consulting work for several organizations involved in similar policies.

Kitzhaber was forced to respond to reports that Hayes was paid $118,000 over two years for a fellowship with a green energy group  money that may not have been reported on her taxes.

Hayes eventually agreed to pay $44,000 for ethics violations.
Footage shows multiple lucky drivers making their way across the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore just seconds before the structure collapsed.

The lights from a construction site can be seen flickering on the 1.6 mile bridge in the moments before the horrific collision.

Vehicles are also seen travelling across the span as the Dali inches ever closer to the crossing in the background.

The 948ft vessel, a Singaporean-flagged container ship, had a 'complete blackout' according to one industry official.

Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association, told the New York Times that the cause of the failure was unclear, but backup generators had kicked in.

Despite this, the propulsion system remained offline and the pilot in command ordered the ship be turned and for the port anchor to be dropped to slow the ship.

Diamond told the outlet: 'As soon as he lost power, he realized what could happen. He immediately asked that the bridge be closed to traffic.'

The mangled wreckage of the bridge wrapped around the front of the shipping container Dali

The 948ft Dali, a Singaporean-flagged container ship, had a 'complete blackout' according to one industry official

Diamond added that the pilot in charge had been on the job for over a decade and had an apprentice in training on board with him.

An hour before the collision with the bridge, vessel-tracking data indicate the Dali was guided from its berth by tugboats and then helped towards the bridge.

Eight construction workers that had been working on the bridge at the time fixing potholes were thrown into the river when it collapsed.

Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse timeline 1:24 am - Ship lights flicker for the first time as the vessel loses power 1:25 am - The ship regains power as smoke begins to emerge from it 1:26 am - The vessel again loses power 1:27 am - First call is made to the Coast Guard for assistance, multiple units respond 1:27 am - Vehicles are seen continuing to cross the bridge as well as the construction crew 1:28am - Dali strikes a support pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing a total collapse Advertisement

The Coast Guard announced on Tuesday evening that they would ending their active search for the remaining six, after two of them were rescued by teams.

Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said that due to the period of time in the water 'we do not believe that we are going to find any of these individuals still alive.'

Miguel Luna, 49, had been one of those construction workers and is presumed dead alongside his colleagues.

His wife, Maria del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo 44: 'They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they can't give us information.

'[We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we don't know if they've rescued them yet. We're just waiting to hear any news.'

A second man, Maynor Suazo, 37, a native of Honduras was identified in his homeland as another worker who is missing and presumed to be dead.

Maynor Suazo's brother, Martin, told Honduran television that his brother emigrated in order to 'improve the quality of his life.'

Martin said that he plans to travel to the United States in order to repatriate his brother's remains.

In a separate interview with CNN, Martin confirmed that Suazo is survived by his son, 18, and daughter, five.

Speaking to the outlet, Martin reiterated his brother's desire for a better life in the US and said that he had also started his own maintenance company.

'Maynor Suazo was a guy with warmth, quality of people, entrepreneur with a vision and mission to serve our community,' a family friend wrote in a touching Facebook tribute.

The crew on board the ship were labelled heroes by Maryland Governor Wes Moore on Tuesday afternoon, after issuing a mayday.

The first of the six: Miguel Luna, 49, was the first missing construction worker identified following the collapse

Maynor Suazo, seen here, a native of Honduras was identified in his homeland as another worker who is missing and presumed to be dead

This allowed authorities to limit traffic on the span at the time, according to Governor Moore.

Moore reiterated this on Wednesday when speaking about first responders who appeared at the scene.

He told Good Morning America: 'The first responders are absolute heroes, because the of actions that they did, they saved lives that night.

'Those people who moved quickly, literally changed the entire dynamic of what that night could have been.'

As the vessel neared the bridge, puffs of black smoke could be seen as the lights flickered on and off.

It struck one of the bridge's supports, causing the structure to collapse like a toy, and a section of the span came to rest on the bow.

With the ship barreling toward the bridge at 'a very rapid speed,' authorities had just enough time to stop cars from coming over the bridge, Governor Moore said.

A police dispatcher put out a call just before the collapse saying a ship had lost its steering and asked officers to stop all traffic on the bridge.

One officer who stopped traffic radioed that he was going to drive onto the bridge to alert the construction crew.

But seconds later, a frantic officer said: 'The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever, everybody, the whole bridge just collapsed.'

These first responders are absolute heroes, because the of actions that they did, they saved lives that night  Those people who moved quickly, literally changed the entire dynamic of what that night could have been.  Maryland Gov. Wes Moore on catastrophic bridge collapse. pic.twitter.com/VQI15Yhknt  Good Morning America (@GMA) March 27, 2024

The ship - the Singaporean-flagged Dali - was 20 minutes into its journey when it slammed into a support column on the bridge

An injured person was pictured being loaded into an ambulance after getting taken off the ship following the collapse

The ship crashed into one of the bridge's supports, causing the structure to snap and buckle at several points

On a separate radio channel for maintenance and construction workers, someone said officers were stopping traffic because a ship had lost steering.

There was no follow-up order to evacuate, and 30 seconds later the bridge fell and the channel went silent.

The collapse is sure to create a logistical nightmare along the East Coast for months, if not years, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major hub.

President Joe Biden, announced on Tuesday that the government would pay the full cost to replace the bridge and insisted it was an accident.

Biden vowed to move 'heaven and earth' to get one of the world's busiest ports reopened.

'Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast,' state Sen. Johnny Ray Salling said.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said at a news conference that it was too soon to estimate how long it will take to clear the channel.
Clapham chemical attacker Abdul Ezedi was given a Muslim funeral and burial despite claiming to have converted to Christianity.

A video showing the 35-year-old Afghan national being laid to rest aired on the BBC last night.

His funeral was allegedly held at a mosque in west London before he was given a Muslim burial at a ceremony in east London on March 11.

Ezedi was subject to a nationwide manhunt after he allegedly poured chemicals on his former partner and her children in January. His body was later found in the Thames.

Explosive new details about Ezedi's case  including his failure to correctly answer questions about Christianity and his 'safeguarding contract'  were disclosed yesterday after the Mail led a media fight to shed light on the case.

The 35-year-old Afghan national had twice been refused asylum by the Home Office, and was considered so dangerous by the Baptist Church that it drew up a 'safeguarding contract' for the safety of parishioners over his sex assault and exposure convictions.

Today, MPs criticised both the Government and the church for the way Ezedi's case was handled.

Labour said the Government had serious questions to answer over how Ezedi was able to remain in the UK.

Clapham chemical attacker Abdul Ezedi was given a Muslim funeral and burial, despite claiming to have converted to Christianity

Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper said Home Secretary James Cleverly needed to explain why the sex offender was able to remain in the country two years after his first asylum claim was rejected.

Ms Cooper said: 'The latest disturbing revelations about the Abdul Ezedi case raise some serious and urgent questions for the Home Office.

'The Home Secretary must explain why his department failed to remove Ezedi from the UK in the two years after his first asylum claim was rejected - particularly after he was convicted of sexual offences.'

Ezedi was found to have 'not been honest in several aspects of his account' by the asylum judge who heard his appeal to stay in the UK.

In spite of his concerns, Judge William O'Hanlon allowed Ezedi's appeal on asylum and human rights grounds, overturning the Home Office's decision not to grant him leave to remain.

Tory Tim Loughton said more guidance was needed for church ministers who were 'taken in' by individuals like Ezedi

A video showing the 35-year-old Afghan national being laid to rest aired on the BBC last night. His funeral was allegedly held at a mosque in west London before he was given a Muslim burial at a ceremony in east London on March 11

Abdul Ezedi timeline 2016 Ezedi, an Afghan refugee, arrived illegally in Britain on the back of a lorry. He had two applications for asylum rejected. 2018 Two years after his asylum was rejected, Ezedi, still living in Britain, was convicted of a sexual assault/exposure offence at Newcastle Crown Court. He pleaded guilty to one charge of sexual assault and one of exposure, the CPS confirmed. He was sentenced on January 9, 2018, to a nine-week jail term suspended for two years for the sexual assault. For the exposure he was given 36 weeks' imprisonment to be served consecutively, which was also suspended for two years. 2020 Ezedi finished his unpaid work order and was discharged from probation supervision. It is understood Ezedi was granted asylum on a subsequent appeal - despite his criminal history - after getting a priest to vouch that he had converted to Christianity. He said he was 'wholly committed' to his new religion. January 31, 2024 Ezedi is suspected of attacking his former girlfriend and her two daughters, aged three and eight, with an unknown alkaline substance. Both the mother and her three-year-old suffered 'life-changing injuries'. The elder child is said to have suffered bruising and burn-like injuries. The suspect later appeared at a Tesco store on Caledonian Road, Islington, dressed in a black hoodie and blue T-shirt. He was last seen on CCTV leaning over London's Chelsea Bridge. His disappearance sparked a huge manhunt. February 19 A body was pulled out of the Thames. February 23 The body was confirmed to be Ezedi's and his cause of death was determined to have been drowning. Advertisement

He said: 'The tribunal overturned his refusal, despite the evidence it was all a bit of a scam, largely based on the evidence of a Baptist minister.

'These shocking revelations confirm what many of us have been saying for some time.

'There are too many migrants who are playing the Christianity card to try and scam the system.

'There's clearly a big disconnect between the home office procedures which found him out  that he didn't have a genuine case  and then the tribunal system which thought it knew better and upheld his appeal.

'That was largely based on the testimony of a Baptist minister who baptised him but who also had concerns about his sex offences.

'But in spite of that they still decided he should be able to stay in the country.

'Clearly the system isn't working and clearly too many people are gaming the system and there are too many priests within the churches who seem to be taken in by people like Ezedi.

'They all need more robust guidance than what they have presently.'

Lee Anderson, the former Tory deputy chairman who now represents Reform UK, called for an investigation into the minister who supported Ezedi.

He said: 'There's been failings by the church and actually the appeals panel are at fault as well.

'The good news is if you enter this country illegally then go on to commit horrific sex crimes you can bank on a church and the whole asylum process to come down on your side and grant you asylum.

'The church are knowingly going to a tribunal, knowing full well this man is a sex offender.

Despite requesting he sign the seven-point document barring him from entering the church alone, a Baptist minister still advocated on Ezedi's behalf.

Images show him being baptised and handing out Christian leaflets in Newcastle.

It comes just weeks after the Home Affairs select committee held a special evidence session over claims asylum seekers were submitting dodgy claims, aided by church ministers.

The committee heard evidence from one Baptist minister he would be brought male asylum seekers 'in batches' every couple of weeks for baptism, something he refused to do.

Home Office sources have warned the reputation of Christian churches could be damaged if they are viewed as undermining the integrity of the asylum system.

Ezedi's immigration tribunal documents have demonstrated the extraordinary lengths he went to as part of his bid to remain in the UK.

Clapham chemical attacker Abdul Ezedi is baptised at a church in Jarrow

Ezedi hands out Christian leaflets to shoppers in Newcastle. He was twice refused permission to remain in the UK

Photos show the asylum seeker handing out leaflets near the Monument in Newcastle

Ezedi walks around Hay's Galleria on the South Bank in London

Record number of migrants have crossed the Channel this year The number of migrants who have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel so far in 2024 has hit a new record high. According to provisional Home Office figures, 338 people arrived in seven boats on Tuesday, taking the total for the year to date to 4,644. This exceeds the previous record high figure of 4,548 for January to March 2022 and had already surpassed the 3,793 arrivals in the first quarter of last year. The number of crossings recorded so far this year is 23% higher than the total at this point in 2023, analysis shows. Last year a total of 29,437 migrants arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel, down 36% on a record 45,774 arrivals in 2022. The figures come after PM Rishi Sunak continued to insist his plan to 'stop the boats' is working even though crossings in 2024 are tracking ahead of recent years. Advertisement

A seven-point 'safeguarding contract' drawn up between Ezedi and the Baptist Church banned him from being alone in the church, in Jarrow, Tyne and Wear.

Ezedi also submitted photos of his baptism at the church in Jarrow as well as images which he claimed showed him evangelising in Newcastle city centre.

But the documents revealed his inability to answer basic questions on Christianity  Ezedi claimed the Old Testament was about 'Jesus Christ', while 'Jacob' was one of the 12 disciples.

Claims he had been shot by the Taliban and that he was a Shia Muslim were also debunked in the asylum process.

Ezedi arrived in the UK in January 2016, but his initial asylum claim was rejected by the Home Office, as was an appeal in 2017.

In January 2018, he was placed on the sex offender register for 10 years and ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work after pleading guilty to charges of sexual assault and exposure.

Just over a year later, in March 2019, he made an appeal over his asylum claim with the First-tier Tribunal's Immigration and Asylum Chamber, arguing he feared persecution because of his religion.

A judge accepted this and allowed his appeal in November 2020, despite doubts about his conversion being 'genuine and long-lasting' from the Home Office.

Science minister Andrew Griffith said the incident demonstrated the need for the Government's Rwanda bill, which would help prevent future cases.

The Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill is currently caught in a legislative tussle between the House of Commons and House of Lords over concerns about human rights and judicial oversight.

Mr Griffith told Sky News: 'We can't run an asylum system based on credulous clerics and lefty lawyers. That is why we are fundamentally reforming it.'

'We are a couple of busloads of peers away in terms of the votes to be able to get [the Bill] through the House of Lords and then that will create the system that we want, that would have prevented this tragic case.'

A Home Office spokesperson said: 'All asylum claims are carefully considered on their individual merits in accordance with the Immigration Rules. This means that religious conversions do not guarantee a grant of asylum.

'We have engaged with a wide range of stakeholders to help us to improve our policy guidance, training for asylum decision-makers, and to ensure we approach claims involving religious conversion in the appropriate way.'

Ezedi arrived in Britain in the back of a lorry in 2016 and had twice been refused asylum by 2018

A reference from a Baptist chapel in the North East, where Ezedi was living, was crucial in persuading an immigration tribunal that he had converted from Islam to Christianity. He's pictured out shopping in Newcastle

A spokesperson for the Baptist Union of Great Britain said: 'Baptists Together did not corporately support or sponsor Abdul Ezedi's asylum application.

'A personal letter of support commenting solely on Abdul Ezedi's observed faith journey was written by a retired Baptist Minister.

'The safeguarding contract was a separate issue and was agreed between the church and Abdul Ezedi with guidance from local and regional safeguarding leads using our national template document of the time.'
A Kiwi man who paid mothers in Asia to have their children dance naked on webcam for him has been jailed.

Jason Wayne Kerr, 45, was handed a sentence of three years and nine months behind bars at Nelson District Court on Wednesday after pleading guilty to charges involving child sexual exploitation material spanning thousands of images on multiple devices across a period of seven years.

The paedophile tried to claim he had not viewed the worst images and videos in his possession but the judge was having none of it.

'If you get this stuff then you get whats in it. Theres no point saying, "that part is horrible - I didnt look at it",' Judge David Ruth told the court, according to the New Zealand Herald.

'I dont believe that for one moment.'

Jason Wayne Kerr, 45, was handed a sentence of three years and nine months behind bars at Nelson District Court on Wednesday after pleading guilty to charges involving child sexual exploitation material spanning thousands of images on multiple devices across a period of seven years (stock image)

Kerr paid several Asian mothers to have their children strip naked and dance in front of the camera for him to watch (pictured: Nelson District Court)

READ MORE: Chilling items found inside alleged paedophile's lair after police save 13 Australian kids from child abuse ring and charge 19 men One of 19 Australian men charged in connection with a global paedophile ring is pictured Advertisement

In April 2018, Kerr accessed a collection of child sexual abuse material containing 178 pictures and 508 videos.

Four of the videos contained the appalling abuse of an 18-month-old child allegedly committed by an Australian offender who was living in the Philippines at that time.

In March 2021, Kerr installed a messaging application on his phone which contained in-app currency, called diamonds, which could be bought with a credit card.

Over an eight-month period, Kerr spent $794.72 ($AUD731) on diamonds he exchanged for video clips from women across southeast Asia.

Kerr paid several mothers to have their children strip naked and dance in front of the camera for him to watch.

Kerr's defence lawyer tried to argue that he had only requested to see the children naked on a few occasions and had been more interested in seeing them juggle or sing.

Police raided Kerr's home in October 2021 and seized two phones and a laptop.

They found almost 8,000 images and videos, dozens of which were classified at the most extreme end of the scale, involving sadism or bestiality.

The judge reduced his sentence from six years and three months to three years and three months because of his guilty pleas, personal circumstances and his co-operation with authorities.

Kerr is now a registered sex offender due to the 'real and genuine risk' he poses to the safety of children.
Villagers have launched a fight to save an area of idyllic countryside that 'inspired' Jane Austen from turning into 1,250-home 'red brick jungle'.

Earlier this year East Hampshire District Council announced a new 'local plan' which included a proposed development on 240 acres of land at Neatham Manor Farm in Alton - just five miles from Austen's home in Chawton.

The proposed development on the green belt land where the Pride and Prejudice novelist regularly 'walked the fields' would see a 'new neighbourhood' built.

But locals living near the site have branded the plans as 'immoral' for destroying the 'completely unspoilt farmland' and 'concreting over' the historic area, as so far 1,278 locals have objected.

Villagers have launched a fight to save an area of idyllic countryside that 'inspired' Jane Austen from turning into 1,250-home 'red brick jungle'

Earlier this year East Hampshire District Council announced a new 'local plan' which included a proposed development on 240 acres of land (outlined in red) at Neatham Manor Farm in Alton - just five miles from Austen's home in Chawton

The proposed development on the green belt land where the Pride and Prejudice novelist (pictured) regularly 'walked the fields' would see a 'new neighbourhood' built

Abigail Hills, 42, and her husband Gary, 51, set up the Save Neatham Down campaign following the announcement, which would see 'a mix of housing sizes, types and tenures' built on the land.

They argue that this is 'not a good advert for Jane Austen's town' and is a 'violation' of a 'beautiful stretch of countryside'.

Writing on the public website, the organisers said: 'East Hampshire District Council are proposing to build up to 1250 houses at Neatham Down, just outside of Alton. This area is a huge tract, 240 acres, of completely unspoilt farmland.

'It is an incredibly beautiful area, with rich biodiversity and much wildlife.'

The couple live on the edge of the proposed development site and Mrs Hills said: 'We first found out at the tail end of January, beginning of February.

'The consultation part of the planning was issued on the 22nd of December and obviously being Christmas time, we didn't see any notifications on it.

'When they told us, we saw the scale of the development and the loss of green fields.'

The Neatham resident - who works in construction - said she believes the developers 'strategically' applied for permission during this busy period so it would go unnoticed.

Abigail Hills, 42, (above) and her husband Gary, 51, set up the Save Neatham Down campaign following the announcement, which would see 'a mix of housing sizes, types and tenures' built on the land

Mrs Hills argued that this is 'not a good advert for Jane Austen's town' and is a 'violation' of a 'beautiful stretch of countryside'

She continued: 'For us, one of the big things was the loss of wildlife on the downs.

'The destruction of that level of green space seems quite frankly immoral. Jane Austen lived in Chawton but she would have walked the fields.'

According to Ms Hills, Austen is believed to have stayed in a cottage in Neatham - which dates back to Roman times - at some point.

The development has seen a 'public outcry' from angry locals who want to save the 'completely unspoilt farmland'.

Ms Hills said the area has 'not got the infrastructure to cope with this number of houses'.

She said: 'The schools are full to capacity and there are no plans to put additional schools in the area.

'The loss of the green space will also result in is not having the dark night sky. We don't want the houses, it's not appropriate for the downs.'

The campaigners said 'urgent action is needed' to prevent the development from going ahead.

Dr June Chatfield OBE who has joined the opposition campaign to the development. Jane Austen is believed to have stayed in a cottage in Neatham - which dates back to Roman times

One objector wrote on the East Hampshire District Council's planning page: 'I strongly oppose this development, which would rip up beautiful countryside and damage local wildlife'

One objector wrote on the East Hampshire District Council's planning page: 'I strongly oppose this development, which would rip up beautiful countryside and damage local wildlife - albeit outside of the South downs area - it should be given the same respect and regard.

'I cannot believe that the council are considering tearing up beautiful countryside in such an historic place as Alton, on the edge of the South Downs.

'Shame on you for even considering this proposal. When will this stop?

'People will come to visit the home area of Jane Austen and the countryside that inspired her works in the future to find they no longer exist and have been replaced by a red brick jungle.'

The Pride and Prejudice novelist was born in 1775 and grew up in the small Hampshire village of Steventon.

In 1809, Austen and her family moved to Chawton and was said to have 'enjoyed walks to Alton and in the Hampshire countryside'.

Locals said the author sought inspiration for her works at the Neatham Downs therefore the 'eyesore' development is 'not a good advert for Jane Austen's town'.

One objector wrote: 'I'm appalled to see this potential planned violation of a beautiful stretch of countryside rich in wildlife and also close to the historic house of Jane Austen, British literary icon.

'Alton does not have the infrastructure to support a whole 'new town', which will overwhelm a quiet market town with traffic, pollution and make local services far harder to access.'

The proposed site is located between two protected ancient woodlands and is home to resident populations of deer, hares, owls, hawks, kingfishers, stoats, and wild brown trout.

Jane Austen wrote her books in her Chawton cottage, which is located just five miles away from the fields.

Visitors can attend the house which is described as the 'birthplace of her six beloved novels' - including Pride and Prejudice.
British Gas has infuriated customers across the UK by calling in the middle of the night with an automated message asking them to carry out a feedback survey.

The energy firm woke up Britons between 2.30am and 4.30am with a message asking: 'This is British Gas, we want to conduct a survey asking how did we do.'

Some customers said the call left them fearing their elderly parents were dead, while others said it woke up their whole household and no one could get back to sleep.

Further people were even more incensed because they received the call after British Gas had been allegedly 'ignoring' their letters and emails for help with a problem.

The company later blamed a 'technical issue' for the error on March 12 and claimed only a 'small number' of customers were affected, but did not reveal the total.

Among the customers affected was Rebecca Ringshall, 63, who told the Telegraph she feared it was her 92-year-old mother's care home calling to say she had died.

British Gas boss sees pay jump to 8.2million By Jessica Clark The boss of British Gas owner Centrica saw his pay almost double last year after high energy bills boosted the firm's share price. Centrica chief executive Chris O'Shea took home 8.2million in 2023. That compared to 4.5m the year before  a figure he recently said was impossible to justify. Mr O'Shea, who has led the firm since 2020, earned a 810,000 salary, around 1.4million in annual bonuses and 5.9million in longer-term bonuses. The latter figure soared in 2023 as it is linked to the FTSE 100 firm's share price performance over the last three years. The company's stock was boosted by high household energy bills during the cost-of-living crisis. Mr O'Shea did not accept a bonus in 2019, 2020 or 2021. The pay rise, revealed in Centrica's annual report, comes two months after he told the BBC 'you can't justify a salary of that size' when asked about his 4.5million wage from 2022. Advertisement

Ms Ringshall, who was awoken at 3.15am along with her husband, said: 'We have had the discussion with the home, if she is starting to fade, my mum has said she wants my brother and I with her.

'So when the phone rang, I did fear the worst for a couple of seconds. I thought they might say something like 'your mother has passed away in her sleep'.

'When I realised it was British Gas, I just couldn't believe it. I just put the phone down, I was thoroughly hacked off.'

She had already been on the phone with British Gas the previous week over a 30 overpayment it collected when she shut her mother's account last October.

Another affected customer was Derek Smith, 85, who told Metro.co.uk: 'I was less than impressed with being called at 3.30am and would best describe my manner as incandescent no, I didn't give the requested rating.'

He also speculated that the message was made from a call centre in India where it would have been an 'OK time' to ring.

Other customers took to social media on the morning of March 12 to report being woken up in the middle of the night.

Among them was Phil Shieber from Telford, Shropshire, who tweeted: 'At 3am our phone rang. As we have elderly parents we naturally panicked. It was an automated call from British Gas asking us to take part in a survey.'

He claimed that a glance at the firm's timeline on X revealed that they 'clearly weren't the only ones', adding: 'What on earth are you playing at?!'

Meanwhile Deborah Page from Suffolk tweeted: 'Not only do you ignore my letter and emails, you also ring me at 3.34am with an automated survey. I am beyond despair. I need help and this is how you treat my vulnerable brother.'

And Charles Cracknell from Hull said: 'So British Gas, you think it's OK ringing at 3.10am for a customer feedback survey waking us up - it's not even amusing.'

Simon Harrison, from Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, also tweeted: 'British Gas, maybe you need to change the settings on your survey robot caller to avoid it calling at 2.30am to see if I'm happy with your service? #goodreviewunlikely.'

READ MORE Nearly four million smart meters in Britain are not working properly - with customers left paying too much or too little to suppliers Advertisement

Sheila Fell from the North East said: 'Just had a phone call from you - an automated survey - at 4.32am this morning, Tuesday, March 12. Really? You can't ring up at a more civilised time?'

Caroline Grimble tweeted: 'Thanks so much for the survey call at 3.49am today. Really appreciate you waking up the household who now can't get back to sleep. Oh and no, the matters are not resolved.'

And Alex Wright said: 'Why is your survey line ringing me at 3am?'

A British Gas spokesman told MailOnline: 'We're very sorry Mrs Ringshall was woken by the call and we completely understand that a phone call in the middle of the night creates worry.

'On March 12 a small number of customers received an automated call from us in error due to a technical issue, which we fixed as soon as we were made aware.

'We're also processing the 30 refund that Mrs Ringshall contacted us about and it will be with her soon.'

British Gas apologised and blamed a 'technical issue' for the error on March 12 (file picture)

A source at the firm also told MailOnline that staff disabled the automated call 'pretty promptly to start working on the fix'.

Last week, British Gas was among three energy providers named by Which? as needing to 'urgently' improve their customer service after a survey found they are the worst energy suppliers for responding quickly and effectively to problems.

The watchdog said 'all too often' consumers were being left on hold, stuck in never-ending chatbot loops or passed from department to department with no resolution or helpful answer to their query.

One British Gas customer told how she spent 43 hours on the phone and sent 24 emails trying to fix a billing issue for more than a year. She said staff lacked empathy, causing her distress as she was made to repeatedly explain that her husband had died.

Another found himself stuck at 830th in the queue for an online chat after struggling to find any phone numbers for British Gas customer service.

British Gas responded by saying it was investing more than 50million in customer service, including hiring 700 more UK-based contact centre staff at the end of last year and introducing longer call centre opening times.

** Had a 3am call from British Gas? Please email: mark.duell@mailonline.co.uk **
His brother Daquan McPherson revealed how he begged medics to keep his mentally ill brother in the hospital before the attack

A man who was killed after being pushed onto subway tracks has been identified, as the suspect's brother revealed he was released from a mental hospital two weeks ago.

Jason Volz, 54, died after being shoved onto at the tracks at the 125th Street station at Lexington Avenue in East Harlem.

Carlton McPherson, 24, is accused of pushing Volz just as a 4 train approached at around 7pm on Monday.

McPherson has mental health issues, as well as a long criminal history stretching back to age 16.

His brother, Daquan McPherson, has since confirmed he was released from a mental hospital just two weeks ago, despite his family begging the facility to keep him in.

Jason Volz, 54, was identified as the man killed when he was pushed onto subway tracks at the 125th Street station at Lexington Avenue in East Harlem

Carlton McPherson, 24, allegedly shoved Volz man onto the tracks as a 4 train approached around 7pm Monday

McPherson was arrested in October 2023 for assault but was freed on bond and is expected back in court on that charge in July

'The city failed Carlton,' his older brother told the New York Post.

'The city is failing all mentally ill people. There's too much red tape. He just got out of the hospital two weeks ago. We begged them to keep him but they said he wasn't a threat to himself or others so they couldn't keep him and they let him go.

'They released him. In New York City the mentally ill have two options  either they go to jail or do something that lands them in the newspaper.'

He added that his brother had made repeated calls to a suicide and crisis hotline over the last six weeks to no avail.

'Carlton suffers from severe mental illness,' Daquan added. 'He gets to these places where he's incoherent. Carlton would sit in a dark room with no TV, with a hood on. That's not the behavior of a mentally healthy person.

'Once he jumped off a roof because he thought people were chasing him,' Daquan McPherson said. 'I tried my best to get help for Carlton. I literally called 988 [crisis hotline] multiple times in the last six months. I literally begged them.'

McPherson is now facing murder charges over Volz's death. They add to a lengthy rap sheet for violent crimes.

Most recently he was arrested in October 2023 for assault, but was freed on bond and is expected back in court on that charge in July.

McPherson's brother revealed he has been suffering with poor mental health for years and that he begged medics to keep him in the hospital before he was released two weeks ago

McPherson is now facing murder charges over Volz's death which add to a rap sheet stretching back to when he was 16

Concerned commuters stand in the 125th Street station after a fatal shoving incident occurred Monday evening

Volz's uncle said he had recently turned his life around after struggling with addiction

Daquan denied that his brother is a 'career criminal' and said he was a troubled young man.

'Carlton did not choose the wrong path nor was he a career criminal,' he said. 'He was raised in a church surrounded by love. But, unfortunately, he was sick and did not get the help he needed in time.'

He also offered his 'deepest condolences' to Volz's family, who said the victim had recently turned his life around after struggling with addiction.

'You had a lunatic on the subway and it ended tragically for my nephew,' the victim's uncle, Eddie Volz, told PIX11 News, adding that Volz was a caring person.

'As far as I knew him, his whole life, that would be his top quality. He always cared more about others than he did for himself.'

Eye witness to the tragedy Brendan Daniel described his horror watching it unfold.

'I felt like a pit in my stomach when I heard it, and just felt really sad for the person that it happened to,' he told the outlet.

McPherson was held without bail following an arraignment on Tuesday night.

The New York Post reported that he appeared disorientated during the hearing and made unintelligible noises.

He is due back in court on Friday.
After a spate of killer cow attacks have swept through the British countryside, this is how to keep safe when you find yourself among wary cattle.

According to the latest available figures, 32 people were killed by cows between 2018 and 2022.

In November last year a 75-year-old walker was killed in Whitland, Carmarthenshire, by a rampaging cow that had escaped from a livestock market.

In August an unnamed 55-year-old woman was found 'covered in blood' after being trampled by a herd of 30 cows while walking her dog near Billinghurst in West Sussex.

While some cow encounters have made people laugh - like when these hapless ramblers fell into a fast running stream to avoid a herd - it is clear to see this is a serious issue as evidenced by the demand for new laws to protect walkers.

If you want to know what to do when you walk through a field of cows, read below to find out what is the best way to keep safe in the countryside.

People have been hurt and even killed after being trampled by cows in the British countryside

Most members of the public are wary of bulls, but fewer realise that cows - particularly those protecting newly-born calves - can also be dangerous.

Moment two hapless ramblers fall into fast running stream after avoiding COWS stood blocking their path Advertisement

So, according to official advice, if you find yourself in a field with wary cattle you need to move away as carefully and quietly as possible.

If you have a dog with you, let the lead go so they can run free rather than trying to protect them.

If you try to do so, you will only endanger yourself as the dog will outrun the cows and you.

If you do not have a canine companion, you should still follow similar advice and move away calmly, without panicking or making sudden noises.

The chances are that the cows will leave you alone once they establish that you pose no threat.

If you happen to walk through a field of cows and there are calves, this should be a warning sign. If you can, go another way and avoid crossing fields.

Sharon Eley was left thinking she was going to die after being trampled by cows in a field in Lancashire. Pictured are bruises on her back and neck from the attack

Janicke Tvedt (pictured) had to be airlifted to hospital after being attacked by a herd of cows in rural North Yorkshire. Pictured: Medics attending to Ms Tvedt after the incident

Huw Evans, 75, was airlifted to hospital after being 'attacked and trampled' by a cow in Wales

In November last year, pensioner Huw Evans was airlifted to hospital on November 19 after being 'attacked and trampled' by an escaped cow, but died from his injuries a week later.

Police were forced to put the animal, which halted trains as it strayed onto a rail line, down for being 'dangerously out of control'.

Devastated friends of the woman who was trampled by a herd of 30 cows in West Sussex said the 'gentle' woman 'loved' animals, with passersby raising the alarm after she was discovered hurt on August 22.

Despite the best efforts of the public and emergency services who performed CPR on her for up to an hour, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

People living in the village claimed that a man had been injured by the same 'crazy' cows months earlier, and had to be airlifted to hospital.

As well as these deaths, terrifying stories have emerged from other walkers who have been left maimed by the animals, with some people left with life-changing injuries.

Sharon Eley suffered 15 broken ribs, a punctured lung, a shattered ankle and a broken clavicle when she was surrounded by cows in a Lancashire field in May this year.

The 51-year-old said she was left thinking she was going die when the cows attacked her as she walked her five-year old Lhasa Apso called Ralphie on a short lead on a public footpath through a field.

Sharon Eley has said she is 'very lucky to be alive' after the ordeal involving around 20 cows when they attacked as she walked through the Lancashire countryside

Janicke Tvedt, 55, was left with seven broken ribs, hoof marks on her chest and legs and needed part of her colon removed after she was attacked by cows

The former army officer had been walking her eight-year-old Labrador Goose (pictured together) when they stumbled across a 30-strong herd of cows in Masham, North Yorkshire

Describing it, she said: 'It was terrifying. They pushed me over, I was on my hands and knees and I didn't know how to get out.

'They'd got all around me and all I could see was hooves after hooves after hooves. I'm very lucky to be alive.'

Former army officer Janicke Tvedt, 55, was left needing a colostomy bag after being trampled by a herd of cows in Masham, North Yorkshire, in 2022.

Ms Tvedt, who served in Bosnia, was taken down and pinned against a fence as the animals, who apparently feared her eight-year-old Labrador Goose was a threat to their calves, stamped on her body.

She managed to escape when her army training kicked in and she went into 'survival mode', climbing a tree. The mother-of-two slipped in and out of consciousness before paramedics arrived and she was finally airlifted to hospital.

She was left with seven broken ribs, hoof marks on her chest and legs and had to have a colostomy bag fitted after part of her colon had to removed by medics following the terrifying ordeal last July.

Each of these attacks have led to the creation of the website 'Killer Cow's' by campaigners who say they have 'experienced aggressive behaviour by cattle' and believe incidents that see cows trample and attack ramblers as they walk through fields are under-reported.

It has since called for compulsory public liability insurance for all farmers who keep livestock, cattle to be separated from walkers on National Trails and a national database of cow attacks.
The Princess of Wales is 'thrilled' by all the support she has received since announcing she is undergoing treatment for cancer, the Queen revealed today.

Camilla made the comment during a tour of the Shrewsbury Farmers' Market this afternoon, where more than 2,000 well-wishers had gathered to see her.

Speaking to two young girls who had hand-drawn get well soon cards for Kate, Camilla said: 'I know that Catherine is thrilled by all the kind wishes and support.'

The Queen also promised Lois, six, and Harriet, ten, that she would transport the letters 'carefully' for the Princess. She was responding to Harriet's apology that the cards, which they had drawn yesterday, had become 'a bit creased' in the wind.

'I'll take them carefully and will make sure she knows they're coming,' the Queen responded, leaning in to speak to the two girls in the blustery conditions.

Speaking after meeting Camilla, Harriet - who is on half-term with her sister - said: 'We heard the news and I wanted to hold the poster up to show my love to Kate.'

Their mother Lucy Waterston, who did not think the Queen would even get to see the cards, said: 'She said she certainly will send her love.'

The well-wishes come after the Princess revealed in a personal video message last week that she is receiving the 'early stages' of preventative chemotherapy.

Charles, who is being treated for cancer, was earlier seen leaving Clarence House in London in his state Bentley limousine, although it is not known where he was going.

Queen Camilla receives messages of support for the Princess of Wales in Shropshire today

Camilla receives artwork of herself and King Charles III from a well-wisher in Shropshire today

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Camilla signs the visitors' book at the Old Market Hall during her trip to Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla smiles as she meets a market trader during a visit to Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla receives a message of support for the Princess of Wales in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla smiles during a visit to the farmers' market in The Square, Shrewsbury, today

Queen Camilla smiles in Shrewsbury this afternoon during her visit to the farmers' market

Queen Camilla smiles after receiving a red rose from Abi Crighton in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla speaks with market traders at a wine stall during a visit to Shrewsbury today

Kate and the King are currently both undergoing treatment for cancer and have therefore postponed any public duties for the time being.

Another well-wisher in Shrewsbury today sent their 'best wishes to His Majesty', to which the Queen responded: 'Thank you'.

Camilla was dressed in a brown leopard print blouse by Fiona Clare, a brown suede skirt and camel top stitch coat by Anna Valentine and two jaunty bumble bee brooches, one of her own and one belonging to Queen Elizabeth II.

Camilla also thanked a woman who said she was 'thinking of her' during this time.

Speaking after she left, Joanne Morris, 65, said: 'She's got a lot on and it's a big thing - you think it's an easy job but it must be very, very tiring.'

More than 2,000 people came out to catch a glimpse of the Queen on what was her first engagement meeting the public since Kate's announcement.

The Queen has become the most senior royal to return to public-facing duties since the monarchy's double cancer scare.

Camilla became the leading royal figure after her husband King Charles III 's enlarged prostate treatment and later cancer diagnosis, carrying out a string of royal engagements while Prince William supported his wife following surgery.

And she was back out today after Kate's shock news last Friday that she has been receiving cancer treatment but remaining hopeful.

Camilla signs the visitors' book at the Old Market Hall during her trip to Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla arrives in Shrewsbury this afternoon for her visit to the farmers' market

Well-wishers hold messages of support for the Princess of Wales in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla meets a trader during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Members of the public await the arrival of Queen Camilla for her visit to Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla arrives in Shrewsbury this afternoon for her visit to the farmers' market

Well-wishers hold messages of support for Queen Camilla for her visit to Shrewsbury today

Also today, Camilla spoke with traders as she toured the market in the Shropshire town which featured a host of food, artisan, jewellery and craft stalls.

READ MORE King Charles will join Queen Camilla and other members of the royal family for Easter Sunday service at Windsor Castle - as Kate Middleton and Prince William miss event following shock cancer diagnosis Advertisement

The Queen met with market organisers Jenny and Stuart Jones before touring the historic event which has been held in The Square for almost 20 years.

It has grown into one of the best markets in the area with around 40 traders regularly setting up stall on the first Friday of the month.

She also visited the Old Market Hall where she signed the visitors book, which was also signed by Queen Elizabeth II in 1952, before meeting members of the local Bee Keepers' Association.

From there Camilla will travel to the recently restored Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings, before meeting local volunteer groups.

These include the Shrewsbury Food Hub, Shrewsbury Interfaith forum, Save Our Shropshire and Shropshire Supports Refugees.

It comes after Buckingham Palace yesterday confirmed that Charles is to make his most significant public appearance since he was diagnosed with cancer when he attends church on Easter Sunday.

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Camilla receives artwork of herself and King Charles III from a well-wisher in Shropshire today

Camilla signs the visitors' book at the Old Market Hall during her trip to Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla smiles in Shrewsbury this afternoon during her visit to the farmers' market

Queen Camilla receives messages of support for the Princess of Wales in Shropshire today

Queen Camilla speaks with market traders at a wine stall during a visit to Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla smiles in Shrewsbury this afternoon during her visit to the farmers' market

Queen Camilla arrives in Shrewsbury this afternoon for her visit to the farmers' market

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla arrives in Shrewsbury this afternoon for her visit to the farmers' market

Members of the public await the arrival of Queen Camilla for her visit to Shrewsbury today

Camilla receives artwork of herself and King Charles III from a well-wisher in Shropshire today

Queen Camilla smiles after receiving a red rose from Abi Crighton in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla reflected in a mirror during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla smiles after receiving a red rose from Abi Crighton in Shrewsbury today

Brooches on Camilla's coat as she meets members of the Bee Keepers' Association today

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla speaks with market traders at a wine stall during a visit to Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla smiles after receiving a red rose from Abi Crighton in Shrewsbury today

The King, 75, will join the Queen and other members of the royal family at the annual Easter Mattins Service at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle this weekend.

READ MORE Cancer-stricken King Charles fulfils Royal duties meeting with community faith leaders after smiling en route from Windsor Castle week after Kate Middleton revealed her own battle with the disease Advertisement

As the palace announced the forthcoming engagement, Charles was pictured carrying out official duties for the first time since the Princess of Wales shared her cancer news with the nation.

Charles met community and faith leaders from across the UK in London yesterday.

The monarch, with a folded cardboard place name in front of him labelled 'HM The King', was shown in conversation around a large antique table in the Palace's Billiard Room.

He was welcoming alumni from the Windsor Leadership Trust, which encourages multi-faith dialogue, harmony and understanding at a time of heightened international tensions.

Confirmation of the King's Easter Sunday appearance came just four days after Kate released an emotional video message revealing she has started a course of preventative chemotherapy.

It will be seen as the King making a move to reassure the public following the shock news.

But the service will be a smaller version of the annual gathering, with less members of the royal family as the King has paused public-facing duties while he continues treatment for cancer himself.

Camilla signs the visitors' book at the Old Market Hall during her trip to Shrewsbury today

Brooches on Camilla's coat as she meets members of the Bee Keepers' Association today

Queen Camilla receives messages of support for the Princess of Wales in Shropshire today

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Brooches on Camilla's coat as she meets members of the Bee Keepers' Association today

Queen Camilla smiles after receiving a red rose from Abi Crighton in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla poses with a dignitary and her dog during a visit to Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla smiles after receiving a red rose from Abi Crighton in Shrewsbury today

Members of the public await the arrival of Camilla in Shrewsbury today as they wear masks

Queen Camilla smiles after receiving a red rose from Abi Crighton in Shrewsbury today

Members of the public await the arrival of Queen Camilla for her visit to Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

A chocolate welcoming Queen Camilla ahead of her visit to Shrewsbury this afternoon

Queen Camilla greets well-wishers during a visit to the farmers' market in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla arrives in Shrewsbury this afternoon for her visit to the farmers' market

Queen Camilla smiles after receiving a red rose from Abi Crighton in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla smiles after receiving a red rose from Abi Crighton in Shrewsbury today

Queen Camilla arrives in Shrewsbury this afternoon for her visit to the farmers' market

Queen Camilla arrives in Shrewsbury this afternoon for her visit to the farmers' market

Members of the public await the arrival of Camilla in Shrewsbury today as they wear masks

The head of state was described by the Palace as being 'so proud' of the princess for her courage in speaking out, and is said to be in 'the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law'.

Kate, the Prince of Wales and their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis will miss the service on Sunday.

The family are spending the Easter holidays together as they adjust to Kate's diagnosis, which was discovered in post-operative tests following her major abdominal surgery.

The King's own treatment for cancer was announced at the start of February, but he has been carrying out low-key official duties behind palace walls.

Although the Easter service is within the grounds of the castle, the King and Queen will be seen arriving by the media.

Royal arrivals at the chapel's Galilee Porch are often watched by staff living at Windsor, who usually gather on a grassy bank nearby or look on from their doorsteps.

Also yesterday, Camilla hosted an event celebrating the power of reading.

She gathered authors, academics and celebrity supporters for an evening reception at Clarence House to mark new research commissioned by her Queen's Reading Room literary project.

Dame Joanna Lumley, a supporter of the initiative was asked about Camilla's prominent role and replied: 'I think they're all really dutiful, in theatres if somebody's ill, somebody steps into their place, we go on with the understudy, we make the show great we keep on going.

Queen Camilla is driven from Clarence House in London today as she heads to Shrewsbury

King Charles III waves to smiling members of the public as he leaves Clarence House today

King Charles III grins to well wishers as he leaves Clarence House in London this morning

Kate revealed she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy in a video released last Friday

'I think there's a lot of professional and dutiful public service, public life which goes on that we've got so out of kilter with, we find it amazing.

READ MORE Meghan Markle targets the pet food market: Duchess of Sussex new lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard could sell bird seed and edible pet treats, trademark documents reveal Advertisement

'We all think she should be blubbing in a corner but that's not what these people are made of.'

Among the guests were a host of celebrity supporters of the Queen's Reading Room including the actors Helena Bonham Carter, Sir Derek Jacobi, Rupert Everett, Edward Fox and authors Sir Ian Rankin, Val McDermid and Sir Ben Okri.

Camilla, an avid reader whose literary project has grown beyond its roots as an online book club, highlighted the research during a speech.

She said: '...in addition to our five a day and our 10,000 steps, we should all be aiming for at least five minutes of reading every day for invaluable benefits for brain health and mental wellbeing.

'Just as we always suspected, books are good for us - and now science is proving us right!'

Camilla launched her reading room during lockdown and it has grown into a major literary initiative which now has a podcast attracting leading authors and a literary festival in its second year.
Users on TikTok are expressing concern for a popular Amish TikToker after she posted a cryptic last video on the platform.

Sarah Joy, better known as @thatplaingirl on TikTok, has amassed more than half a million followers, documenting her life as an Amish Mennonite in West Virginia.

'This is the last TikTok I am making while I'm still in the community,' Joy begins the video.

'It has been very nice getting to know all of you and I appreciate the opportunity that you have given me to talk about the community.

'I wish you all well'

Users on TikTok are expressing concern for a popular Amish TikToker after she posted a cryptic last video on the platform

Sarah Joy, better known as @thatplaingirl on TikTok, has amassed more than half a million followers, documenting her life as an Amish Mennonite in West Virginia

Users in the comments have expressed grave concern for Joy's wellbeing

Sarah Joy has opened up about her mental health struggles, sharing that she attempted suicide in 2022

'Sarah joy I will come pick you up right now,' commented a user, fearful for the content creator

'She looks terrified. I hope she's okay and didn't get caught,' chimed another user

@thatplaingirl I deeply apologize if I have offended anyone for stepping outside of the community guidelines.  original sound - Sarahjoy

The caption of the video read, 'I deeply apologize if I have offended anyone for stepping outside of the community guidelines'.

Users on TikTok expressed grave concern for Joy as her usually cheerful and hopeful demeanor was masked by a hostage-like, fearful disposition.

'Sarah joy I will come pick you up right now,' commented a user, fearful for the content creator.

'Okay now I am so so worried,' commented another.

'She looks terrified. I hope she's okay and didn't get caught,' chimed a third.

'The look to the side, someone else was standing there. She was visibly afraid,' observed a user, referencing Joy's uncomfortable and nervous body language.

The Mineral County Emergency Management Office told DailyMail.com that they have been inundated with calls about Sarah Joy, concerned for her wellbeing, and that the Sheriff's Office is currently investigating the situation.

They also said the only way to contact Joy was through her P.O. box in Fort Ashby. The office said they tried calling the post office, but they were closed.

Another escaped Amisk TikTok creator, who goes by The Misfit Amish, claimed that someone has made direct contact with Sarah Joy, and that she is physically safe. However, the creator said joy 'has asked everybody to please not call a welfare check, it would endanger her at this point'

Joy has given her audience an inside look at her day to day - sewing her own clothes, making homemade meals, playing guitar, and joking about her abnormal upbringing.

Aside from her light-hearted content, she has also exposed the dark side of Amish culture, citing the domestic and sexual abuse crisis in her community, violent encounters she has experienced herself, and the mental health epidemic of Amish women who don't have an escape.

The Amish TikToker has opened up about her own mental health struggles, sharing that he attempted suicide back in 2022

Her platform has served as a safe space for Amish survivors who have since left their community in search of a safer existence.

Joy has also exposed the dark side of Amish culture, citing the domestic and sexual abuse crisis in her community

The Mineral County Emergency Management Office told DailyMail.com that they have been inundated with calls about Sarah Joy

The sheriff's office is currently investigating her situation

Joy has opened up about her struggles as a sexual abuse victim herself

Joy has given her audience an inside look at her day to day

The violence against women in the Amish community is not a secret. DailyMail.com has previously reported on the arrest of Shawn Cranston for allegedly murdering pregnant Rebekah Byler in her home earlier this month.

Neighbors of Cranston, while shocked at his double homicide charges, were still hesitant to comment on the situation.

'We like to keep things among ourselves. We're not talking to protect the parents and the husband,' an Amish told DailyMail.com.
Tourists visiting Majorca are being warned of hefty fines following the introduction of tougher new sanctions for bad behaviour or flouting civic rules in its biggest holiday hotspots.

The mayor of the island's capital, Palma, says one of his main objectives is to 'correct uncivil attitudes' and this applies as much to holidaymakers as it does to locals.

Jaime Martinez says the new Civic Ordinance could see offenders hit with fines of up to 3,000, depending on the severity of the breach - with the new rules due to come into force in a couple of months.

The new rules include a ban on drink parties in public places, graffiti, scooters, and even nudism and semi-nudism.

This new Ordinance toughens the sanctions on activities that deteriorate or dirty the city's public spaces.

Tourists visiting Majorca are being warned of hefty 3,000 fines following the introduction of tougher new sanctions for bad behaviour

A drunken tourism decree was agreed at the start of 2020 for certain areas like Magaluf in Majorca and the West End of San Antonio in neighbouring Ibiza

According to the mayor, the current ordinance is too 'lax' and needs an increase in sanctions to promote one of the main objectives of his mandate: 'Correct uncivil attitudes.'

It comes after he told leisure industry bosses at the ITB Berlin tourism fair earlier this month that he and his administration are working to stop 'rampant' irresponsible tourism on the island.

According to the ordinance, if the consumption of alcohol on public roads disrupts coexistence, involves crowds or deteriorates the tranquillity of the environment, among other situations, the infraction will be considered serious.

Breaching this rule will set you back 750 to 1,500 - or if it's considered very serious, the fine can range from 1,500 to 3,000.

On this issue, the mayor has pointed out that there are identified areas where 'we must act with greater presence', such as Santa Catalina, Palma beach or the Paseo Maritimo.

The amount of infractions for graffiti or slogans will be increased from 100 to 750 euros to fines of 1,500 to 3,000.

In the case of minors who commit graffiti vandalism, the mayor explained that parents will be held responsible and will have to ensure payment of penalties and meet the cost of removal by the town hall.

In relation to banners, posters and advertising brochures, their placement in municipal buildings or facilities, in public spaces and street furniture is prohibited. Thus, the sanctions will range from 750 to 1,500.

READ MORE: Brits face tough new behaviour clampdown in Majorca with law change that will hit Magaluf and surrounding region Advertisement

Likewise, placement on monuments, listed buildings or on traffic signs that make their visibility difficult will result in a serious infringement, amounting to 1,500 to 3,000.

The Civil Ordinance prohibits gambling and offering games that involve bets or money, acts that will be considered serious infractions of 750 to 1,500.

The offering of trile (shell) games will involve a very serious infraction of 1,500 to 3,000.

Among other fines related to cleaning, defecating, urinating or spitting in public spaces and street furniture will be penalised with 1,500 to 3,000.

Likewise, the Civil Ordinance affects other aspects such as attacks on the dignity of people, the visual degradation of the urban environment, the inappropriate use of public space for games, regulates the use and parking of motorhomes, the excrement of pets, prohibits street commerce, nudism and semi-nudism, and regulates terraces and cleaning.

Regarding scooters, VMPs and skateboards, the exception for bicycles and scooters to circulate on pedestrian streets between 8am and 10am is rescinded.

Owners of electric scooters will be obliged to have civil liability insurance from June, and on roads where the vehicles are permitted, the minimum age to ride them will be 15.

Reflective vests will be mandatory and the use of phones and headphones while riding will be prohibited - the maximum fine of breaching this rule will cost you 1,500.

As for minor infractions, such as driving with headphones or through urban tunnels and crossings, among others, the fines will range from 300 to 750, when currently they are 100 to 750.

'It is a very broad and complete ordinance that has a very clear objective, to correct uncivil attitudes that alter coexistence, that attack heritage, urban furniture and, in short, against what belongs to everyone and that we all have a duty to take care of,' said the mayor.

'The one goal is to make Palma a safer city, but also more civic'.

A drunken tourism decree was agreed at the start of 2020 for certain areas like Magaluf in Majorca and the West End of San Antonio in neighbouring Ibiza.

It included fines of up to 50,000 for holidaymakers caught leaping off their hotel balconies and limits on the amount of alcohol served with meals at all-inclusive hotels.
The number of migrants to have crossed the Channel has hit a record total for the first three months of the year as Rishi Sunak insists his 'stop the boats' plan is working.

A total of 4,644 people have arrived on the south coast on England from France in small boats since the beginning of January, including 338 on Tuesday, according to Home Office figures.

The figure is larger than even in 2022 - a year which saw the highest number of Channel migrant arrivals on record - when 4,162 landed in Britain.

It 23 per cent higher than the total from this period last year, when 3,793 people arrived in the first quarter of the year.

More than 2,000 migrants, many of whom were intercepted by Border Force patrols during the perilous crossing of the 21-mile wide Dover Straits, have been brought ashore in March alone.

A group of migrants were seen disembarking a Border Force vessel in the Port of Dover on Tuesday

They included one child, aged around five, in a winter coat with their hood up to protect them from the cold

The number of arrivals in the first three months of this year has reached a new record, after 4,644 migrants crossed the English Channel between January and the end of March

The recent surge means the number of Channel migrant arrivals this year is on track to break the record of 25,774 from 2022.

Last year a total of 29,437 migrants arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel, down 36 per cent on the year before.

READ MORE Dozens of migrants including children arrive in Port of Dover after being picked up in the English Channel - as monthly total rises above 2,000 Advertisement

The figures come after Rishi Sunak continued to insist his plan to 'stop the boats' was working even though crossings in 2024 were tracking ahead of recent years.

Downing Street declared Mr Sunak's administration was dealing with a 'migration emergency' after a record day for crossings last week.

Some 514 people made the journey in 10 boats on March 20, making this the busiest day since the start of the year.

On Tuesday one group, all wearing red life jackets, were seen being escorted off a Border Force boat in the Port of Dover and walked along the gangway to the immigration processing centre at the former jetfoil terminal at the Western Docks around midday.

They included one child, aged around five, in a winter coat with their hood up to protect them from the cold. Another appeared to be in bright pink waterproof dungarees, while a third wore wellies and an open coat.

Meanwhile, the Government's Rwanda Bill remains stuck in parliamentary limbo after a series of further defeats in the Lords, with MPs not scheduled to debate it again until after Westminster returns from its Easter break.

Labour said it was 'time to get a grip and restore order to the border' in the wake of the latest figures.

A Border Force vessel travels into the Port of Dover yesterday carrying migrants found crossing the English Chanel

Meanwhile the Border Force vessel Ranger could be seen heading to an area in the middle of the Channel

One group, all wearing red life jackets, were seen being escorted off the boat and walked along the gangway to the immigration processing centre

Shadow immigration minister Stephen Kinnock said: 'Despite all the evidence to the contrary, Rishi Sunak keeps on telling the British people that small boat arrivals are coming down and his promise to stop the boats remains on track.

READ MORE More than 500 migrants reach the UK in small boats on busiest day of Channel crossings so far this year Advertisement

'Can he not see what is happening from inside his No 10 bunker, or does he think we can't see it for ourselves?

'Either way, it's time to get a grip and restore order to the border.'

The Home Office said the number of crossings was 'unacceptable' and shows 'exactly why we must get flights to Rwanda off the ground as soon as possible'.

A spokesman added: 'We continue to work closely with French police who are facing increasing violence and disruption on their beaches as they work tirelessly to prevent these dangerous, illegal and unnecessary journeys.

'We remain committed to building on the successes that saw arrivals drop by more than a third last year, including tougher legislation and agreements with international partners, in order to save lives and stop the boats.'

When confronted by figures showing that the number of people arriving illegally in dinghies is higher than at the same time last year, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt told Sky News: 'When we get flights off to Rwanda, that will send a very strong signal to smugglers and the people that if you come to the UK illegally then there is a very good chance you will be sent straight back abroad.'

The news comes as just 9 per cent of Britons are happy with how ministers are dealing with our borders, while 69 per cent say they are unhappy.

An average of 48 people have been in each boat in the highest monthly figure so far since the start of 2024

In 2023 there were a total of 29,437 in 601 boats compared to 45,755 in 2022

According to the survey of 3,000 voters, carried out by pollsters Ipsos and the think-tank British Future, 54 per cent of those who said they were unhappy cited 'not doing enough to stop Channel crossings' while 51 per cent said 'immigration numbers are too high'.

More than half of all respondents now support reducing migration, up from 48 per cent in 2023.

A breakdown by political party support makes bleak reading for the Conservatives just months before the election is expected, with the flagship policy to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda on hold and support for Reform UK rising.

Only 16 per cent of Tory supporters and 8 per cent of those who backed Boris Johnson in 2019 are happy with the current handling of immigration.

And 53 per cent said the issue would be important in deciding how they will vote, behind only the NHS and cost of living.

Perhaps less surprisingly, just 10 per cent of Labour supporters have a positive view of the Government's performance, with 72 per cent saying the opposite.
The Los Angeles medical examiner has ruled schoolgirl Shaylee Mejia died of 'accidental' blunt head trauma after cops said she fell down the stairs at a party - but her mother has said this isn't the case.

Shaylee, 16, died on March 15, days after she was brutally attacked inside a bathroom at Manual Arts High School in the California city. Her mother Maria Juarez blames this altercation for her death.

In a report published Tuesday which isn't yet finalized, LA deputy medical examiner Dr Emily Lo ruled Shaylee's death an 'accident' caused by 'sequelae of blunt head trauma', and cops said she fell down the stairs at a party on March 9.

Police were called to the party after Shaylee collapsed. But Juarez says there were no stairs involved, and her daughter fainted due to hurting her head in the fight days before.

Shocking footage shows the moment Shaylee's head was aggressively slammed into a cubicle by another student in the women's restroom on March 5, as several other girls stood nearby watching.

Shaylee Meija, 16, was suffering from headaches in the days following the horrific attack but still went to school

Shaylee was at a party days after the attack when she collapsed and she rushed to the hospital. She never regained consciousness . (Pictured: Shaylee with her mom Maria Juarez)

One girl drags Shaylee by her hair and hits her head against the stall before she falls to the ground. Numerous punches are exchanged by the two girls throughout the brawl.

Juarez said her daughter complained about headaches for several days but did not initially tell her about the fight because she didn't want her to worry or take time off work.

She also continued to attend school before she went to a party the following Saturday night. At the party, Kaylee fainted and a friend said that she stopped talking and fell down, according to Juarez.

The teen was taken to the hospital and heartbreaking photos show her lying in a hospital bed on a ventilator. She died six days later, on March 15.

Juarez, a housekeeper and the family's sole provider, claimed her daughter was being bullied for months and school officials failed to stop it.

'Everybody knows about my daughter hitting her head, the teachers too,' Juarez told KTLA previously. 'Everybody knows.'

The teenage girl joined Manual Arts High around eight months ago when she moved into a new apartment with her mother and younger brother.

Shaylee Mejia, 16, collapsed just days after she was attacked inside a bathroom at Manual Arts High School in Los Angeles

Mejia's mother Maria Juarez and her attorney Luis Carrillo told ABC7 that they believe her death to have stemmed as a result of the injury sustained in the fight

Manual Arts High School principal Alejandro Macias said: 'While this tragic incident took place outside of school hours and off campus, our heartfelt thoughts remain with those affected by this loss'

After several months at the school, the mom said her daughter began coming home with bruises all over her body, which she thought was due to other fights.

Juarez took pictures of the injuries to show school officials and campus police but claims nothing was done about the issue.

She added her daughter continued to be targeted by bullies and several attacks were captured on camera.

Juarez revealed that the teen's three-year-old brother was devastated by the news of his sister's passing.

'Hes sad,' Juarez said. 'He misses his sister. I just, I dont know. I want to die.'

Juarez also told ABC7 that her daughter was 'very obedient, a very good daughter, a very good sister'.

'I just ask for justice,' she said.

Manual Arts High School principal Alejandro Macias said he was 'saddened' by the student's death 'off campus'.

'On behalf of our entire school community, I want to offer my deepest condolences to those who are impacted by this loss, including the students family, friends, and teachers,' he said.

The Los Angeles medical examiner has ruled schoolgirl Shaylee Mejia (pictured) died of 'accidental' blunt head trauma after cops said she fell down the stairs at a party - but her mother has said this isn't the case

Shocking footage shows the moment Shaylee's head was aggressively slammed into a cubicle by another student in the women's restroom during the violent fight on March 5, as several other girls stand and watch

Macias requested privacy for the people involved in the space and said the school was offering support.

'While this tragic incident took place outside of school hours and off campus, our heartfelt thoughts remain with those affected by this loss,' Macias stated.

While this tragic incident took place outside of school hours and off campus, our heartfelt thoughts remain with those affected by this loss.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Shaylee's family with the funeral costs.

'We are trying to save money to help Shays mom with the funeral expenses anything helps please help us put Shaylee to rest her death was very tragic to many of us,' it read.
Ashley Vigil, 31, a severely disabled woman with Rett syndrome who was repeatedly raped by her stepfather, Brian Kenneth Urban, 51, has died suddenly

A severely disabled Utah woman who was raped repeatedly by her stepdad on a camera her mom installed, has died suddenly - just weeks after the suspect pled guilty to five felony charges.

Ashley Vigil, 31, had a rare disorder called Rett syndrome, a genetic mutation that affects brain development in fewer than 1,000 people in the U.S., almost exclusively girls.

It was revealed that she was repeatedly raped by her stepfather, Brian Kenneth Urban, 51, after her mother installed cameras in the bedroom to monitor her seizures as a result of her deteriorating condition.

Urban pled guilty to five felony charges after raping his disabled stepdaughter. He will appear in court for sentencing on April 5.

After the gruesome discovery, her mother and full-time caretaker, Paula Vigil, worked to pass 'Ashley's Law,' in order to help protect vulnerable adults in the same way that children and elderly people are protected by laws.

Ashley Vigil, 31, a severely disabled woman with Rett syndrome who was repeatedly raped by her stepfather, Brian Kenneth Urban, 51, has died suddenly

Brian Kenneth Urban, 51, pled guilty to five felony charges after raping his 31-year-old disabled stepdaughter, Ashley Vigil

'She's grown to about the size of an eight-year-old girl. She's unable to communicate,' Ashley's mother Paula Vigil, 49, said. 'Her seizures had suddenly increased'

'She's grown to about the size of an eight-year-old girl. She's unable to communicate,' Ashley's mother Paula Vigil, 49, said at the time. 'Her seizures had suddenly increased.'

While Urban pled guilty to the charges, including rape and forcible sexual abuse, the victim and her family were facing the continuous nightmare caused by his repeated abuse.

The disturbing revelations of Urban's sickening behavior came about in October 2022 - after Ashley's doctor recommended that Paula set up cameras in her bedroom to monitor her daughter's mysterious seizures to gain some understanding of what was going on.

Paula told 2KUTV that her daughter's seizures were worsening. She was also struggling to eat and losing weight. Her doctor recommended installing a camera in her bedroom to see when the seizures were occurring.

What she saw was far worse than she could have ever imagined.

'Instead of catching the seizures, I caught him,' Paula told 2KUTV.

'In her condition, she [Ashley] can't move. He had to completely undress her, move her to the couch, and take her diaper off, to do what he did. Then he had to dress her and put her back in her bed, so I wouldn't know.'

While Urban plead guilty to the charges, including rape and forcible sexual abuse, the victim and her family were still facing the nightmare caused by his repeated abuse

The heartbroken mother said she made a promise to her daughter that 'she would never be anywhere where she wasn't safe.' She said 'he took that one thing I promised away'

Paula believes that the seizures were a result of Ashley's body screaming for help.

'Her body was seizing, and she was crying for help in the only way she could,' Paula said. 'If not for those cameras, I would have never known, and I would have never had proof.'

After the horrific discovery, Paula called dispatch and South Jordan police arrested Urban.

Nathan Woodward, a Utah attorney, saw Paula's story on Facebook and was 'rattled.' He decided to reach out and offer to help the family.

'I just want Paula and Ashley to feel heard. There's a real gap in how our law is written and applied,' Woodward said.

The attorney explained that when someone is raped and their attacker is found guilty, the severity of punishment is determined by whether the victim was an adult or a minor.

However, 'no substantive consideration is given as to an adult victim's mental capacity, resulting in an inconsistent underlying philosophy as to why we justify more severe punishments for crimes against children,' he explained.

Ashley Vigil, 31, had a rare disorder known as Rett syndrome, a genetic mutation that affects brain development in girls that affects fewer than 1,000 people in the US

Paula Vigil took care of her daughter Ashley full-time and identified her as the victim in this case to help pass 'Ashley's Law,' which she believes will help protect vulnerable adults in the same way that children and elderly people are protected by laws

Nathan Woodward, a Utah attorney, saw Paula's story on Facebook and was 'rattled'. He decided to reach out and offer to help the family

Paula explained that there is no mandatory prison sentence for Urban, so the family has no idea what the sentencing will be.

'She [Ashley] is an infant in an adult body. He did this to someone who could not fight back. He should be getting a mandatory prison sentence, and there's just this hole in the system.'

Paula and Woodward are hoping to pass 'Ashley's Law' to account for vulnerable adults in response to the broken system.

The heartbroken mother said she made a promise to her daughter that 'she would never be anywhere where she wasn't safe.' She said 'he took that one thing I promised away.'

'Brian Kenneth Urban came into our lives pretending. The act he put on convinced me. Convinced me he loved my girls and would care for them as I do. That he would protect them,' Paula said on Facebook. 'Little did I know, what we needed protection from was him.'
A Texas law that allows state police to arrest and deport migrants suspected of illegally entering the United states will remain on hold for now, a federal appeals court ruled in a victory for President Joe Biden.

Biden's Justice Department has argued that Texas' law is a violation of federal authority and would create chaos at the border. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has argued the Biden administration isn't doing enough to control the border and that the state has a right to take action.

A panel of the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied - in a 2-to-1 ruling - a request by Texas to let the law take effect while the state's appeal of a judge's ruling blocking it plays out at the appellate court.

A Texas law that allows state police to arrest and deport migrants suspected of illegally entering the United states will remain on hold for now - above migrants try to cross the border at Ciudad Juarez, Mexico

'For nearly 150 years, the Supreme Court has held that the power to control immigration - the entry, admission, and removal of noncitizens - is exclusively a federal power,' Judge Priscilla Richman wrote for the majority.

The legal case is far from over.

Texas' law was in effect for several hours on March 19 after the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way.

But the Supreme Court did not rule on the merits of the case. It instead sent the case back to the 5th Circuit, which then suspended enforcement while it considered the latest appeal.

The latest ruling keeps the block in place while the appeal process continues.

In response to the New Orleans ruling, Texas could potentially ask the Supreme Court to allow the law to go into effect. In the meantime, the appeals court holds another hearing on April 3.

Abbott has said the law is necessary to deal with the record number of migrants crossing into Texas from Mexico and vowed to take the fight all the way to the Supreme Court if necessary.

Migrants build makeshift tents with blankets to protect themselves from the cold as an American helicopter guards the border

President Joe Biden (left) and Republican Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas (right) have long clashed on the border issue

Migrants build makeshift tents with blankets to protect themselves from the cold

Migrants wait together on the U.S. side of the Rio Grande river in El Paso, Texas

Abbott's law - known as Senate Bill 4 - allows any Texas law enforcement officer to arrest people suspected of entering the country illegally.

Once in custody, the migrants could either agree to a Texas judge's order to leave the U.S. or be prosecuted on misdemeanor charges of illegal entry.

Migrants who don't leave could face arrest again under more serious felony charges.

Meanwhile, Mexico has said it would refuse to take back anyone who is ordered by Texas to cross the border.

Statistics from U.S. Customs and Border Protection show that this fiscal year alone, there has already been a reported 961,537 border encounters.

The year, which runs from October to September, is already on current pace to break last year's record of 2,475,669.

Overall, nearly 7.3 million migrants have entered the country under Biden's watch, a number greater than the population of 36 individual states, a Fox News analysis found last month.
Former President Barack Obama is increasingly worried about President Joe Biden's 2024 campaign, according to a new report from CNN.

The former president went to the White House on Friday to express his concerns directly to Biden for 'several hours' according to the report, voicing his worries about the 2024 campaign.

Obama also speaks regularly with Biden on the phone and is in direct contact with his White House chief of staff Jeff Zients.

Obama's close involvement with Biden's team only adds to the growing perception that he is helping run the country behind the scenes as the 81-year-old president runs for re-election.

Former President Barack Obama and US President Joe Biden

Obama views the current position of the campaign as an 'all hands on deck' moment, according to the report, working with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to promote Biden who continues struggling in the polls.

Obama will team up with Biden and former President Bill Clinton on Thursday for a massive Manhattan fundraiser. The three will sit down for a forum with late night show talk host Stephen Colbert at Radio City Music Hall.

Tickets cost up to $500,000 a piece for special access to receptions with the three presidents. A 100,000 donation gets the donor a picture taken with the three presidents by photographer Annie Leibovitz.

Celebrities Anna Wintour, Mindy Kaling, Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo, and Lea Michelle are expected to attend.

Obama always worried that Biden would embarrass himself during the 2020 election, when many Democrat elites and donors viewed him as too old and out of touch to run a successful campaign.

'Don't underestimate Joe's ability to f*** things up,' Obama reportedly told a Democrat during the 2020 campaign.
Police are to look again at claims Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner broke the law when previously living between two ex-council houses, it has emerged.

A detective chief inspector at Greater Manchester Police promised to 'review' and 'reassess' following an initial decision that there was no evidence of any offences.

Ms Rayner has faced weeks of scrutiny over her living arrangements in the 2010s following her marriage to Mark Rayner.

It came after The Mail on Sunday revealed she made a 48,500 profit on her council house after purchasing it through the right-to-buy scheme.

But tax experts have suggested she could have been liable for up to 3,000 in capital gains tax on the sale of the property in Stockport, Greater Manchester.

Neighbours have said it was effectively a second home for six years, during which they claimed Ms Rayner was living at her then-husband's house a mile away.

It was reported she was registered on the electoral roll at her ex-council house for five years after she wed Mr Rayner in 2010, with her husband listed at another address.

But Ms Rayner is said to have re-registered the births of her two youngest children to give her address as where her husband resided.

Those who make a false declaration on the electoral roll can face possible criminal charges.

Police are to look again at claims Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner broke electoral law when previously living between two council houses

Bury North MP James Daly, a Conservative Party deputy chairman, said police had failed to properly investigate the claims

Ms Rayner recently delivered an emotional defence of her past living arrangements and said she had done 'nothing wrong'.

Greater Manchester Police considered a formal complaint and found no evidence that any offence had been committed.

But Bury North MP James Daly, a Conservative Party deputy chairman, said the force had failed to properly investigate his complaint.

As reported by The Times, he complained that officers appeared not to have contacted witnesses or looked at the electoral roll, deeds and other relevant documents.

Cheryl Hughes, a detective chief inspector at Greater Manchester Police, wrote to Mr Daly on Monday to confirm she will 'reassess our decision'.

She said: 'I have read your letter outlining your concern over the lack of investigation into the matters you raised in your initial complaints to GMP on the 25th February regarding Angela Rayner MP.

'Following receipt of your recent letter dated 13th March 2024, I have been requested to review the circumstances you have outlined to reassess our decision around an investigation. I will update with the outcome.'

She added that an original 'investigative review' had looked at the 'relevant legislation pertaining to the allegations' made by Mr Daly.

Earlier this month, during a lunch with Westminster reporters, Ms Rayner hit out at having to 'trawl through all of my personal details' amid the scrutiny over her past living arrangements.

'At the time of the sale of the house, I was a home carer and it was my home,' she said of her former council house on Vicarage Road.

'I took legal advice, as you do when you sell a property, and I had an estate agent that worked with me on that.

'I've had expert tax advice, I've looked into it and there is no capital gains tax for me to pay and, therefore, that is my position on that.'

Ms Rayner also addressed questions about where she lived following her marriage to Mr Rayner, who owned a former council house on nearby Lowndes Lane.

She added: 'Vicarage Road was my principal property but when my children were born, I would spend time at Lowndes Lane because my children  I had a teenager and two babies.

'My son was born at 23 weeks. I spent eight months in intensive care with him, I wasn't really bothered about where my clothes were on a certain night.

'But my house was my house at Vicarage Road and I paid all my bills there, that was my home.

'But I did spend time at Lowndes Lane at times, of course I did. And then when I sold Vicarage Road, I lived at Lowndes Lane because I didn't have a house and I registered there when I moved in there.

'But there was never any deceivement (sic) or any problems with, or any question about avoiding capital gains or not saying what was right on the electoral roll. That was my house.'

Ms Rayner has previously rejected Tory accusations of 'staggering hypocrisy' by profiting on the sale of a former council house.

Labour have proposed to 'review' Margaret Thatcher's right-to-buy scheme from which she benefited by buying the house at a discount.

Ms Rayner stated that Labour's policy was to 'review the unfair additional market discounts of up to 60 per cent' on council home purchases following Tory changes to the policy in 2012.

She stressed this was introduced 'long after' she was able to exercise the right to buy herself at a 25 per cent discount under the old system.

Ms Rayner strongly pushed back at allegations she wants to 'pull up the ladder' to make it harder for other social housing tenants to benefit in the same way she did.

The claims about Ms Rayner's house sale first emerged in a forthcoming biography, Red Queen? by Lord Ashcroft, which has been serialised in the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: 'We have received a complaint regarding our decision not to investigate an allegation and are in the process of reassessing this decision.

'The complainant will be updated with the outcome of the reassessment in due course.'
Divers tasked with searching for victims of the horror Baltimore bridge collapse face hours in freezing, murky waters filled with dangerous chunks of mangled metal as they continue their heroic efforts.

The treacherous conditions were cited by Maryland officials as they called off the search late Tuesday evening, admitting their operation has now become a rescue mission to find bodies.

Six construction workers who were on the bridge at the time of the collapse remain missing, and Coast Guard officials say they are presumed dead.

At a press conference Tuesday winding down the search, Col. Roland Butler of the Marland Police said dive teams face 'changing currents, low temperatures, very poor visibility, and so much metal and unknown objects in the water.'

Diving teams scouring the wreckage of the Key Bridge in Baltimore face perilous conditions, including freezing temperatures, changing currents and very poor visibility

Rescuers are deployed with structural engineers to help navigate around the dangerous wreckage. On Tuesday night, the perilous conditions led officials to call off the search

Late into the first day of the search, eerie footage emerged showing rescue teams combing the Patapsco River with flashlights.

Crews searched along the twisted remnants of the 1.6-mile Key Bridge, which could be seen embedded into the bow of the vessel.

Dive teams face significant struggle to move around the wreckage, with the footage showing them aiming flashlights around the murky waters.

Hopes of finding the workers alive dwindled into the evening, and experts said the frigid 46F degree waters would make survival only possible for up to three hours.

Jeffrey Pritzker, the executive vice president of the workers' company Brawner Builders, said the conditions were reason enough to presume they perished in the tragedy.

'Were presuming that they are not alive because they were thrown into the bay in an area thats 50 feet deep, with 46-degree temperature, probably buried under tons of steel,' Pritzker told the Baltimore Banner.

'The company is in mourning and its a terrible, unanticipated tragedy,' he added.

At the press conference, Butler said he was bringing his teams inside for the night as the dangerous mission was also imperiling the lives of crewmembers.

'The last thing we want to do is put divers in the water with changing currents, low temperatures, very poor visibility, and so much metal and unknown objects in the water,' he said.

'All it takes is one object to strike an individual, and all of a sudden, we have a first responder recover another first responder,' he said, noting that they would be in a 'better position' to find bodies by waiting until Wednesday morning.

Col. Roland Butler of the Marland Police said he was calling off the search due to the risks facing dive teams

Rescue personnel gather on the shore of the Patapsco River after a container ship ran into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing its collapse

Officials said they are searching for at least six individuals in the frigid waters

Crews searched along the twisted remnants of the 1.6-mile Key Bridge, some of which could be seen embedded into the bow of the vessel in the freezing river

Astonishing footage captured the moment the vessel plowed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, sending the colossal steel structure crashing into the freezing Patapsco River

The ship, a 948-foot-long DALI operated by Singaporean company Synergy Group, collided with the bridge shortly after it departed the Port of Baltimore

The bridge spans 9,000 feet across the Patapsco River and is 180 feet above the water

Divers were sent back out to the freezing Patapsco River at 6am Wednesday morning.

Given the dangerous conditions, they will reportedly be accompanied by a structural engineer to help navigate around the debris due to the risk of a punctured suit or airline.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said divers were dealing with a 'treacherous situation' as he praised their efforts.

'Were talking about frigid temperatures, were talking about a moving tide, were talking about darkness and mangled metal, thats still very much in the middle of this water,' Moore said.

'The heroism of our first responders was just outstanding.'

Moore also noted the quick action of transportation officials on the bridge moment before the crash, as they halted traffic immediately as the ship's crew sent out a mayday alert.

'I have to say Im thankful for the folks who once the point came up and notification came up, that there was a mayday,' Moore said.

'Who literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, these people are heroes. They saved lives.'

Maryland Governor Wes Moore (center) praised the efforts of dive crews and said the 'heroism of our first responders was just outstanding'

Investigations into how the vessel didn't avoid the bridge are ongoing, with an initial report citing a 'propulsion' fault as a potential cause

A search operation underway in the frigid Patapsco River early on Tuesday morning

The first of the six victims was named Tuesday as Miguel Luna, 49, a construction worker who was on the bridge at the time of the collapse

Maynor Suazo, 37, a native of Honduras has been named as the other man missing and presumed dead

The ongoing rescue missions come as the first two missing victims have been identified.

Miguel Luna, 49, was on the graveyard shift with the rest of his Hispanic crew when the Dali ship lost propulsion and caused the collapse.

Luna, a father of six, is now presumed dead.

His heartbroken wife Carmen Castellon told Telemundo 44: 'They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they can't give us information. [We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we don't know if they've rescued them yet. We're just waiting to hear any news.'

A second man, Maynor Suazo, 37, a native of Honduras was identified in his homeland as another worker who is missing and presumed to be dead. Suazo, a father of two, had been living in the US for the past 18 years.

Guatemala's consulate in Maryland said in a statement that two of the missing were citizens of the Central American nation. It did not provide their names but said consular officials were in contact with authorities and assisting the families.

Mexican officials have said that some of their citizens are missing but did not say how many.
A Romanian man convicted for his role in a debit card skimming scheme in California is expected to be sentenced up to 30 years in federal prison next month.

Orange County authorities busted 48 suspects connected to an organized crime ring using card skimming operations to steal from people on public assistance and ATM accounts at the end of last year.

Florin Duduianu, one of Romania's most wanted criminals, was arrested in the operation and found guilty in January of two counts of aggravated identity theft.

Police arrested the 39-year-old after they observed him make multiple withdrawals using different cards at the same ATM. Duduianu had four Visa gift cards encoded with Electronic Benefits Transfer account numbers.

'The victims are single mothers struggling to put a roof over their children's' heads and food on the table and hardworking people who need a helping hand who find themselves standing at the checkout line with bags full of groceries only to be humiliated when they find that they have no money in their account because a thief has surreptitiously taken everything,' said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer.

Orange County authorities busted 48 suspects connected to an organized crime ring using card skimming operations to steal from people on public assistance and ATM accounts

Florin Duduianu, one of Romania 's most wanted criminals, was arrested in the operation and found guilty in January of two counts of aggravated identity theft

According to the FBI, skimming occurs when devices are illegally installed on ATMs, point-of-sale terminals, or fuel pumps to capture data or record cardholders PINs

Criminals then use the data to create fake debit or credit cards and steal from victims accounts

'Meanwhile, the thieves are using this money to fund organized crime, buy luxury cars worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, and to lead a life of luxury that the true recipients can only dream about.'

Police said when they searched Duduianu's cellphone they found dozens of photos and videos related to ATM skimming as well as tools and techniques used to skim EBT information.

Duduianu previously pleaded guilty to three other counts of bank fraud and unlawful use of unauthorized access devices.

His sentencing is scheduled for April 19, where he will face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each bank fraud count, up to 20 years in federal prison for the unauthorized access devices count, and a mandatory two-year prison sentence consecutive to his underlying sentence for each aggravated identity theft count.

According to the FBI, skimming occurs when devices are illegally installed on ATMs, point-of-sale terminals, or fuel pumps to capture data or record cardholders PINs.

Criminals then use the data to create fake debit or credit cards and steal from victims accounts.

The amount of EBT funds stolen went up more than $2 million across California between January 2023 and January 2024, according to the Orange County District Attorney's Office.

Authorities said the criminals using the stolen public assistance funds can be seen in public social media posts driving luxury cars worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, flaunting Rolex watches, and wearing designer clothes and shoes.

During the law enforcement crack down one suspect in Cypress was arrested with $30,000 in cash and 60 cloned EBT cards manufactured using stolen EBT card numbers and PIN numbers. Another suspect in Brea was arrested with $27,000 along with 42 cloned cards.

Authorities said the criminals using the stolen public assistance funds can be seen in public social media posts driving luxury cars worth hundreds of thousands of dollars

The amount of EBT funds stolen went up more than $2 million across California between January 2023 and January 2024

A suspect in Seal Beach was arrested with more than $14,000 stuffed in a glove box after making repeated withdrawals using cloned EBT cards at a convenience store ATM and then returning with more cloned cards to make additional illegal withdrawals.

More than $185,000 in cash and 491 cloned public assistance cards worth $471,360 in potential stolen funds have been recovered by investigators during the operation since May 1, 2023.

Many of the suspects have been determined to have entered the United States through illegal border crossings and a lack of accurate criminal history has made it difficult for prosecutors to argue for higher bail or no bail, according to the district attorney's office.

The FBI said several of the suspects busted have connections to Florian Tudor, the alleged leader of the notorious and violent ATM skimming organization known as the Riviera Maya Gang based out of Cancun, Mexico.
Tech companies are willing to pay top dollar - up to $1 million or more - to poach talented software engineers with experience in generative artificial intelligence.

Employees who know how to work with large language models and semiconductor chips - which is the technology undergirding popular apps like ChatGPT - are becoming a rarity in the job market, according to executives.

These lucrative offers from AI startups, which include attractive stock-vesting schedules, are coming as big tech companies like Google, Meta and Amazon continue on with gargantuan layoffs despite increasing profits.

Databricks, an AI and data storage firm, told the Wall Street Journal that finding run-of-the-mill engineers isn't a challenge - but finding ones with enhanced AI skills is.

The median annual pay for AI engineers is around $280,000, while non-AI engineers can expect a salary closer to $190,000 according to data from career-services platform Levels.fyi.

Naveen Rao, VP of generative AI at Databricks, says there might be only a couple hundred people qualified to take on challenges that come with AI engineering

Arthur Mensch, cofounder and CEO of Mistral AI attends the AI Safety Summit in Bletchley Park, near Milton Keynes, Britain, November 2, 2023

Naveen Rao, the vice president of Generative AI at Databricks, said the real challenge is picking potential staff from an estimated talent pool of 'a couple of hundred' that have actually trained large language models themselves, and can reliably troubleshoot problems as they come up.

He told the WSJ: 'There is a secular shift in what talents were going after.

'We have a glut of people on one side and a shortage on the other.'

Databricks is right in line with AI salary estimates, as even just an entry level software engineer hired there can expect to earn $224,000 total, including base pay, stock options and bonuses, Levels.fyi data reveals.

For a senior staff engineer, Databricks offers around $964,000 total compensation.

Rao said that for specialized AI new hires, compensation packages can reach an eye-watering $1 million or more.

Levels.fyi co-founder Zuhayeer Musa also told the Wall Street Journal that OpenAI's compensation packages are more than double compared to similar jobs at Meta.

Six candidates for positions at OpenAI told Levels.fyi that the median salary was $925,000 a year including bonuses and equity in the company. The total median pay for 344 machine learning and AI engineers at Meta was $400,000.

The Journal also noted that companies across different sectors are giving spur-of-the-moment salary increases to prevent talented AI professionals from fleeing to startups.

Scott Chetham, CEO of AI-powered Faro Health, explained that he offered a candidate employed at a large consulting firm a job. The candidate's firm responded by doubling her salary in a bit to retain her - and her coveted AI talents.

The beginnings of the modern AI boom started as early as 2015 when OpenAI was founded by CEO Sam Altman and Elon Musk. When the company came out with ChatGPT in November 2022, it quickly became a household name, reaching 100 million active users in January 2023.

This rapid growth, while great for these companies, necessitates talented workers who know what they're doing. Some employees that have been stationed at major tech companies know that and are foregoing their larger base salaries in hopes that a gamble on AI now will pay off big time in the coming years.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman (left) attends a session of the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos on January 18, 2024. Justin Kinsey (right) is the president of SBT

Justin Kinsey, the president of semiconductor firm SBT, told the Wall Street Journal he recently recruited a candidate from Microsoft.

In the process, this person reportedly turned down more than $1 million in bonuses and Microsoft stock, while also agreeing to a $100,000 cut in his base salary to join up with Kinsey's startup.

He made the move because he believes that he'll make $40 million from just SBT's stock in five to seven years.

Another avenue for tech employees to strike it big in the AI world is by going out on their own - as former Google employee Arthur Mensch has done.

Mensch founded Mistral AI in April 2023 and less than a year later, the company has been valued at $2 billion.

However, poaching is coming in both directions. AI startups are trying to pull engineers from big tech, but big tech is also trying to bring small, successful AI teams into the fold.

For example, Apple acquired Darwin AI in mid-March. The iPhone maker hired a number of Darwin's employees to join the its own AI division to possibly help with the implementation of generative AI in upcoming iOS 18, Bloomberg reported.
President Joe Biden puzzled Baltimore residents and commuters on Tuesday after he recalled commuting by train over Baltimore's Francis Scott Key bridge, that collapsed after it was hit by a container ship.

The 1.6 mile arch and truss bridge has four lanes of Interstate 695 road traffic that crosses the Patapsco River and the outer Baltimore harbor, but does not include train tracks.

But Biden said he's taken the train over that bridge 'many times' during his commute from Delaware to Washington, D.C.

'A container ship struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which Ive been over many, many times commuting from the state of Delaware either on a train or by car,' Biden said.

US President Joe Biden recalled traveling by train over the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore

Biden spent his decades-long political career in Congress traveling on the Amtrak train from D.C. to his home in Delaware.

The Amtrak train route includes a stop in Baltimore, but goes around the harbor without crossing it.

The White House disputed reports about the president's faulty commuting recollection.

'The President was clearly describing driving over the bridge while commuting between Delaware and D.C. during his 36-year Senate career,' White House spokesperson Robyn Patterson said in a statement to the New York Post.

A cargo ship crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge early Tuesday morning, causing it to collapse

Biden vowed in a speech Tuesday he would 'move heaven and earth' to rebuild the bridge as soon as possible and reopen the Baltimore port, even though he acknowledged it would take time.

'Its my intention that federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge, and I expect to  the Congress to support my effort,' he said.
A hacker group is in possession of at least a 'small number' of patients' data following a cyber attack, NHS Dumfries and Galloway has said.

Reports have emerged of a post by the ransomware group - INC Ransom - on its dark web blog. The hacker group claimed it was in possession of three terabytes of data from NHS Scotland.

The post included a 'proof pack' of some of the data, which has been confirmed by the NHS board to be genuine.

INC Ransom posted its bulletin yesterday but did not give a public deadline for payment.

Besides the cache of patient details which has already been published, NHS Dumfries and Galloway previously reported a cyber incident on March 15 - adding credence to the hacker group's claims.

In a statement posted on its website, NHS Dumfries and Galloway's chief executive Jeff Ace said: 'We absolutely deplore the release of confidential patient data as part of this criminal act.

INC Ransom posted a cache of stolen data from NHS Dumfries and Galloway as proof that it had hacked the NHS board's IT system. It has vowed to publish yet more confidential data unless the board agrees to its demands

In a statement posted on its website, NHS Dumfries and Galloway's chief executive Jeff Ace said: 'We absolutely deplore the release of confidential patient data as part of this criminal act'

'This information has been released by hackers to evidence that this is in their possession.

'We are continuing to work with Police Scotland, the National Cyber Security Centre, the Scottish Government and other agencies in response to this developing situation.

'Patient-facing services continue to function effectively as normal.

'As part of this response, we will be making contact with any patients whose data has been leaked at this point.

'NHS Dumfries and Galloway is very acutely aware of the potential impact of this development on the patients whose data has been published, and the general anxiety which might result within our patient population.'

INC Ransom appeared on the dark web in July 2023. The group typically encrypts and steals data from targets before treatening to publish it online unless the victim pays up.

According to monitoring tool Ransomlooker, INC Ransom has targeted no fewer than 65 organisations in the last year.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: 'Police Scotland enquiries are continuing into a cyber attack on NHS Dumfries & Galloway.'
A North Carolina couple narrowly escaped death after a stalker showed up outside their home in the middle of the night and attempted to fire a rifle through their back door, believing they were running a sex trafficking ring.

Tyler Austin Messer, 29, was arrested March 24 and charged with assault by pointing a gun, two counts of trespassing and two counts of stalking.

One night earlier, the Marion man was captured on surveillance footage creeping around a property on Deep Woods Drive with an AR-15.

Messer, dressed head-to-toe in tactical gear, aims the rifle at a sliding glass door. He can be heard pulling the trigger, but the gun does not discharge.

As dogs inside begin barking, he slinks off into the night.

North Carolina man Tyler Austin Messer, 29, was arrested and charged with assault by pointing a gun, two counts of trespassing and two counts of stalking

He was seen pointing an AR-15 assault rifle at the back door of a couple's home, falsely believing them to be running a child sex trafficking ring

The homeowners, Billy Brooks and Preston McHone, say Messer has shown up at their house several times, asking for his father

Homeowners Billy Brooks and Preston McHone received a motion alert from home cameras at 11:13 pm and realized there was someone at their back door with a weapon.

Documents reviewed by DailyMail.com show police referring to the Marion man as 'mentally ill' several times.

A handwritten note scrawled on a magistrate bail explanation form says that Messer 'stated to family that he was going to rid the world of sin.'

'Defendant trespassed, pointed an AR-15 at victims, pulled the trigger but gun did not fire,' it reads.

'Defendant is mentally ill and has ability to get firearms / is dillusional (sic) / believes that victims kidnapped his father + are involved in sex trafficking. Defendant is very dangerous in current state of mind.'

Deputies say more charges are expected to be brought against the 29-year-old, who has trespassed on the property several times.

Brooks and McHone shared the surveillance footage to Facebook Sunday in a desperate bid to identify their stalker.

'He has come here on 3 different occasions asking if his dad was here. Each time we told him no,' Brooks wrote.

'I have since found out from 2 different sources... that he thinks we are running a child sex ring and his dad is involved. This is apparently a persistent delusion as the visits asking for his dad were a year ago.'

Brooks noted that the man's delusions seemed to 'revolve around his dad once living here' before the couple purchased the home in 2017.

Authorities refer to Messer as 'delusional' and 'mentally ill' in documents, adding that he believed the couple had kidnapped his father and were 'involved in sex trafficking'

Messer was identified shortly after Brooks and McHone shared the footage to Facebook. According to McHone (front), Messer was aiming the gun at both of them

Deputies from the Marion County Sheriff's Office say more charges are expected to be brought against the 29-year-old, who is 'dangerous in (his) current state of mind'

In his own post, McHone clarified that the couple did not know Messer, nor did they know his father.

'Our last contact with him was over a year ago when on a 3rd occasion he arrived with a "step dad" asking about his bio-father,' he explained.

'He had been told on the two previous interactions we had lived here for 5 years and did not know his father or him or anyone else that previously lived in the home.

'There was no interaction in the time after that until Saturday night at 11:13 when he approached the back entrance of our home to carry out his plan to murder us both.'

McHone claimed Messer had pulled the trigger 'to shoot Billy' before 'turning to then shoot me.'

'At that point he racks the rifle, but I've noticed the security camera alert while calling out to Billy and the dogs are barking, so he skulks off into the dark,' he wrote.

Messer's baseless claims are eerily reminiscent of the QAnon conspiracy, which derived from posts on 4chan in October 2017.

The debunked theory alleges that former President Donald Trump is fighting against a cabal of satanic pedophiles within Hollywood and the 'deep state' of the United States government.

This is also similar to the conspiracy theory Pizzagate, which falsely claimed that New York police had uncovered a child sex trafficking ring linked to members of the Democratic Party.

Adherents asserted that the ring operated in the basement of Comet Ping Pong in Washington, D.C. - the same place where another North Carolina man, Edgar Maddison Welch, appeared with an assault-style rifle in December 2016.

Welch pleaded guilty in March 2017 to weapons and assault charges as part of a deal with prosecutors.

The conspiracy theory has gradually become less political, with more emphasis on the purported 'worldwide elite' running child sex trafficking rings.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Brooks and McHone for comment.
An aviation expert has said that Boeing need to 'bulldoze their entire board' as the beleaguered airline continues to battle with an ongoing safety crisis.

The company has been hit by problems including a near-catastrophic incident in January when a fuselage panel on a 737 MAX 9 Alaska Airlines jet blew off mid-flight.

Since then, the company has faced questions following several other potentially dangerous episodes.

Speaking to The Free Press, airplane expert Mike Boyd criticized the company for losing its way, with multiple critics saying Boeing went wrong after it began to prioritize profits over engineering excellence.

He told the outlet: 'Instead of building airplanes, all they cared about was building the bottom line. They threw the MAX together at the last minute.

Speaking to The Free Press , airplane expert Mike Boyd, seen here, criticized the company for losing its way

Boyd added that safety issues are only part of the problem, and that Airbus, their main competitor, are now ten years ahead of them.

He said: '[Boeing] has nothing on the drawing boards. Firing a few executives isnt going to change Boeing. What they need to do is take a bulldozer to the entire board of directors.'

Boyd has previously worked for clients as an expert in aviation issues for the likes of Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

He suggested that he wouldn't feel comfortable flying on any plane that's emerged from Boeing's plant in Charleston, South Carolina, where the 787 Dreamliner is made.

On Monday, it was announced that CEO Dave Calhoun would step down at the end of the year in a management overhaul at the company.

Calhoun plus the chairman of the board and the head of its commercial airlines business are all leaving.

Following the door plug blowing off the Alaska Airlines flight, investigators said the bolts to keep the panel in place were missing after repair work at a Boeing facility.

Federal regulators then put a limit on the production of 737s and found a series of problems after an inspection at Boeing facilities.

The Department of Justice opened its criminal investigation into the incident, with investigators contacting passengers saying they may have been the victim of crime.

Earlier this month, roughly 50 people were treated for injuries after a Boeing 787 flying from Australia to New Zealand experienced a 'technical event'.

On Monday, it was announced that Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun, seen here in January, would step down at the end of the year

There were no serious injuries from the terrifying air failure, but passenger's belongings including phones flew out of the aircraft

That caused the plane to plunge which jolted passengers in their seats, the company told airlines to start inspecting switches on pilots' seats after a report said an accidental cockpit seat movement caused the incident.

Shortly before that incident, Boeing said the technical failure involving the door stemmed from something that occurred during production.

The company said that required documents detailed the removal of a key part that failed were never created.

All of this comes after Boeing whistleblower John Barnett was found dead from in his truck in a hotel parking lot in South Carolina, seven years after retiring.

The 62-year-old was found in his truck in a hotel parking lot in South Carolina, - seven years after he retired following a 32-year career with Boeing.

Barnett's death came during a whistleblower suit, where he alleged under-pressure workers were deliberately fitting sub-standard parts to aircraft on the assembly line.

Barnett's death came during a whistleblower suit, where he alleged under-pressure workers were deliberately fitting sub-standard parts to aircraft on the assembly line.

The LATAM Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner plane that suddenly lost altitude mid-flight, dropping violently and injuring dozens of travelers , is seen on the tarmac of the Auckland International Airport on March 12, 2024

The 62-year-old was found in his truck in a hotel parking lot in South Carolina, - seven years after he retired following a 32-year career with Boeing

Barnett had alleged that second-rate parts were literally removed from scrap bins, before being fitted to planes that were being built to prevent delays.

A 2017 review by the FAA upheld some of his concerns, requiring Boeing to take action.

He had just given a deposition to Boeing's lawyers for the case in the week before his passing, his attorney Brian Knowles said.

The Charleston County coroner, meanwhile, confirmed last week that the longtime Boeing staffer died while in town for interviews linked to the case.

Boeing also responded to the former worker's death in their own statement as news spread, saying it was 'saddened by Mr. Barnett's passing.'

The statement did not address any aspects of the case, but ultimately added: 'Our thoughts are with his family and friends.'

Barnett's job for 32 years was overseeing production standards for the firm's planes - standards he said were not met during his four years at the then-new plant in Charleston from 2010 to 2014.

'The new leadership didn't understand processes,' Barnett told Corporate Crime Reporter in an interview in 2019 of how brass allegedly cut corners to get their then state-of-the-art 7878s out on time.

Barnett claimed he alerted superiors at the plant about his misgivings, but no action was ever taken. Boeing denied this, as well as his claims.

A 2017 review by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) went on to stand up some of Barnett's qualms, including finding that at least 53 'non-conforming' parts - as they put it - were misplaced, and considered lost.
A teacher's assistant at Stanford University who has previously claimed that Jihad is part of the Muslim religion called on the military to assassinate president Joe Biden.

Hamza El Boudali has been a section leader in a computer-science class at the prestigious California school since 2023 - and has a history of making inflammatory comments regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict.

'Im not calling for a civilian to do it, but I think a military should,' the 23-year-old said of the President of the United States being murdered to a small group at a protest last month, according to The Atlantic.

'Id be happy if Biden was dead,' he reportedly added.

'Im not calling for a vigilante to do it but Im saying he is guilty of mass murder and should be treated in the same way that a terrorist with darker skin would be - and we all know terrorists with dark skin are typically bombed and drone striked (sic) by American planes.'

Hamza El Boudali, a section leader in a computer-science class at Stanford, has called on the military to assassinate president Joe Biden

He was seen in footage standing in front of Stanford's Blue and White tent, an education tent about Israel manned by Jewish students, holding a sign that read: 'Ask Me About Jihad'

In perhaps the most shocking of the exchanges that have rocked Stanford's campus in recent months, El Boudali allegedly erupted into threats as he protested a pro-Israel display at the school in February.

He was seen in footage standing in front of Stanford's Blue and White tent, an education tent about Israel manned by Jewish students, holding a sign that read: 'Ask Me About Jihad.'

When confronted over the sign, El Boudali said he would prefer Hamas to take over the federal government.

The teaching assistant added that Jews under Hamas-occupied America would do 'very well... just like the hostages.'

El Boudali was reported to the university, which declined to punish him or strip him of his grading duties, and only moved his office hours with students to Zoom.

A university spokesperson told the Free Beacon, 'Stanford takes accusations about potential discriminatory behavior by instructors very seriously', and added students can get their work re-graded by another instructor if they choose to.

Pro-Palestine protests have swept Stanford University's campus following the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks, with one pictured on February 12, 2024

He reportedly didn't deny the encounter, but defended it as 'the Blue and White Tent has been presenting Islamophobic rhetoric and misinformation to the campus community.

'As a Muslim student who has been here for over 5 years, I took it upon myself to combat their Islamophobia through education.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to Stanford for comment on this story.

Stanford has been in hot water since the October 7 attacks by Hamas against Israel, which sparked the ongoing war in Gaza.

In another unsavory exchange on January 24, a forum on combatting anti-Semitism was overran by pro-Palestine protestors.

The activists were seen in footage harassing and taunting Jewish students, after they descended on the venue and warned staff they would 'find out where you live.'

At the event, Stanford president Richard Saller tried to reassure students that the university was behind them, saying: 'We really do want to make sure that all of the communities on campus get the respect that they deserve.

'Were committed to equal treatment and equal protection.'

Jewish students at Stanford say they have been left fearing for their lives after anti-Semitism swept the campus

At an event intended to address antisemitism, protestors erupted into ugly scenes as they chanted at Jewish students to 'go back to Brooklyn' and declared 'Israel will fall'

But just outside the event, protestors gathered to demonstrate against the war in the Middle East, targeting a rabbi and berating a Jewish student.

The student, David Schuller, 24, approached the group outside the event, before footage showed them surround and heckle him in response.

As the students scream at him that the 'IDF killed your hostages' in Gaza bombings, police stood by and did nothing.

At one point a protestor appeared to whisper something in his ear, which Schuller claimed was them making a violent threat against him.

'He told me, Watch it man, were watching you. You better know what youre getting into,'' Schuller told the

'I had to take a couple steps back and tell the cops he threatened physical violence.'

Numerous other protests and demonstrations against Jewish students have erupted across the campus, including one where they warned Jewish students to 'go back to Brooklyn.'

The chant is referencing the large Jewish population in the New York City borough, which is hosts the most Jews of anywhere in the world.

In another incidence of anti-Semitism on the campus, Stanford's Chabad Rabbi Dov Greenberg was followed by a mob that chanted at him: 'There is only one solution - intifada revolution'

Video of the moment also saw the pro-Palestine protestors brand white people 'terrorists' and call for the destruction of Israel and America.

'Stanford employees, we know your names and we know where you work,' another said as staff tried to calm the tensions. 'And we will soon find out where you live.'

Further incidents included the apparent targeting of Stanford's Chabad Rabbi Dov Greenberg, who was seeing being followed by a mob as he led students away from the clashes.

Protestors chanted at him, 'There is only one solution - intifada revolution', and, 'Zionist, Zionist, you can't hide, we charge you with genocide.'

The chilling encounters are a stark reminder of the scenes that have erupted on college campuses as a result of the Middle East crisis, with experts reportedly saying they could constitute grounds for a discrimination lawsuit.
READ MORE: Patients are being charged for using the OFFICE where they meet doctors

'Unfortunately, the Biden administration still has not implemented this important policy,' says the top Republican

The No Surprises Act, signed into law by Biden in 2020, addresses some of the surprise fee concerns says Sen. Cassidy

A top Republican senator is urging the Biden administration to take action following a scathing report that American hospitals are making billions of dollars by charging unsuspecting patients so-called 'facility fees' for routine check ups in outpatient centers.

A new Wall Street Journal report examined the frustration afflicting everyday Americans who are unwittingly being billed hundreds of extra dollars that will go toward a hospital's overhead costs.

The fees are becoming unavoidable, according to the Journal, as hospitals continue a pattern of steady acquisitions of medical practices.

The fees significantly inflate the cost of standard medical procedures, including mammograms, colonoscopies and heart exams by hundreds of dollars.

The No Surprises Act, that went into effect in January 2022, addresses some of the surprise fee concerns, but the administration has done little to implement the law, warns one top Republican.

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., the ranking member of the powerful Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, is blaming Biden for failing to implement the law.

'Facility fees are part of a pattern where patients don't know how much they are going to be charged in advance of a service,' Cassidy told DailyMail.com this week.

A new Wall Street Journal report examines the frustration afflicting everyday Americans who are unwittingly being billed hundreds of extra dollars in 'facility fees'

Facility fees, which generally amount to essentially charging an individual for use of the room in which they meet with their medical practitioner, are used to offset the cost of running a hospital

'Unfortunately, the Biden administration still has not implemented this important policy,' Sen. Cassidy told DailyMail.com

'The No Surprises Act addresses this with a provision called the Advanced Explanation of Benefits. With this information, the patient knows how much they will be charged before agreeing to the service,' he continued.

'Unfortunately, the Biden administration still has not implemented this important policy.'

Hospitals claim the facility fees, which generally amount to essentially charging an individual for use of the room in which they meet with their medical practitioner, are necessary to offset the cost of federal regulations.

Outpatient service facility fees help hospitals afford services such as neonatal ICUs, so the argument goes.

In Maine and Ohio, four out of five medical bills for heart screenings that are now sent to each state's largest insurer has a facility fee tacked on.

After hospitals purchase clinics and doctors, the fees begin to show up on patients' bills.

Hospitals categorize the once boutique clinics as extensions of their centralized operations, leaving longtime patients with the option to pay the hefty fee or find a new provider.

The Journal report claims that many hospital systems are now earning at least half of their revenue from patients who have not been admitted.

Those numbers add up in the context of how much buying hospitals have done in recent years. One estimate suggests that some 50 percent of doctors work for hospitals.

According to some who study such matters, the fees are not justified. Medicare advisers said that the fees collected in 2021 allowed the government program to overpay by $6billion for a slate of services.

Some lawmakers in Congress have proposed limiting the fees covered by Medicare.

The House of Representatives passed a bill in December that would prevent Medicare from paying hospital fees for chemo and other drug infusions delivered by doctors in clinics not on a hospital campus.

The move would save the federal insurer just under $4billion in the next decade.

The No Surprises Act, that went into effect in January 2022, addresses some of the surprise fee concerns, but the administration has done little to implement the law, warns one top Republican

After major hospitals purchase clinics and doctors, the fees begin to show up on patients' bills

Some states have taken matters into their own hands. In Indiana, clinics located off hospital campuses affiliated with the largest nonprofit health systems, cannot charge fees

The group representing the interest of major hospitals - The American Hospital Association - does not want Congress to limit fees.

It argues that those sorts of restrictions would deprive hospitals of revenue they need in an unforgiving financial market.

Some states have taken matters into their own hands. In Indiana, clinics located off hospital campuses affiliated with the largest nonprofit health systems, cannot charge fees.

Other states have banned the fees attached to telehealth or preventative care visits.

Some require hospitals to notify patients about the fees before an appointment is booked.

Starting in July, hospitals in Colorado will have to disclose the fees to potential patients.
The son of a German brewing dynasty is suing his sisters for a slice of the family business after claiming their mother tricked him into signing away his inheritance the morning after his boozy 18th birthday party.

Carl-Clemens Veltins, whose family built a small brewery in the western village of Grevenstein into one of Germany's most successful beermakers, was horrified to learn upon the death of his mother Rosemarie in 1994 that he had been written out of the will.

Instead, the entire inheritance was awarded to his sisters Susanne and Frauke, the former of whom continues to lead the Veltins family empire and has been listed as a billionaire by Forbes.

But when perusing the records of his family's estate eight years ago he discovered much to his chagrin that he had mistakenly relinquished his rights to a third of the family business.

This, he claims, happened the morning after his 18th birthday, when his mother drove him to a notary and told him to sign a scrap of paper that she said was simply 'to avoid the brewery having to be sold if the heirs claimed their shares'.

Now, Carl-Clemens' lawyers are alleging his mother's 'immoral and void' actions mean the Veltins sisters owe their client a third of the family's money.

If their claim is ultimately upheld, then the 'black sheep' of the Veltins family could come into a nine-figure fortune.

Carl-Clemens Veltins claims his mother tricked him into signing away his inheritance the morning after his boozy 18th birthday party

Carl Clemens Veltins pictured in 2005 after being sentenced to a two-year pirson stint on drugs and firearms charges

Rosemarie Veltins died in 1994 and wrote her son out of her will, giving the family business to his sisters

Susanne Veltins continues to lead the brewery and is listed as a billionaire by Forbes

For many years, Carl-Clemens thought he was simply being punished for his misdeeds.

He has long been labelled the Veltins family 'black sheep' by German media thanks to a string of bad behaviour.

This included the burglary of his own mother's villa in 1984 and a string of convictions for the possession and dealing of cocaine, as well as illegal possession of a Kalashnikov automatic rifle he bought from Soviet soldiers after launching a nightclub in the city of Leipzig following the collapse of the Berlin wall.

Besides, Carl-Clemens always knew Rosemarie wanted his older sister Susanne to take over the Veltins business empire.

But he alleges that, while perusing the records of his family's estate eight years ago, he made the shocking discovery that his mother had conspired to excise him from the Veltins fortune.

'I was taken for a ride back then,' Carl-Clemens told German outlet Focus, claiming that he unwittingly waived his inheritance for the comparatively paltry sum of five million German marks.

He alleges his mother pulled him out of bed the morning after his 18th birthday party and drove him still half-drunk to a notary's office, where an 'A5 piece of paper' was thrust under his nose.

'She said: ''Get up Clemens, we have to go to the notary and sign something. It's about business'',' he recounted.

'Essentially, it was about me foregoing my claim to the family business and the shares I am owed so that the brewery wouldn't have to be sold to pay out other family members in the event that my mother died.

'What son believes that his mother will betray him?'

The jaded heir went on to claim he had a poor relationship with his mother whom he characterised as strict and controlling, which pushed him to rebel.

'I was always an adventurous man, I liked taking risks. If I had got more attention as a ten-year-old, my path may have been a different one,' he told German outlet Bild.

'My CV is certainly not one that tells the story of a saint. Looking back, I'm really not proud of a lot of the things that happened. But that doesn't mean that my family was allowed to ignore me the way they did.

'I would actually have been entitled to a third of the company shares. I didn't get anything from it.'

Veltins' turnover in 2023 alone was some 441 million euros

Veltins has evolved from a small and simple agricultural brewery to one of the largest private breweries in Europe

In a passage from Rosemarie's will, quoted by German business outlet Handelsblatt, the former Veltins CEO said that the five million marks paid her son prior to her death was 'sufficient'.

'My son Carl-Clemens Veltins has already received sufficient donations from me during his lifetime, so that, taking all the circumstances into account, further donations to him by way of inheritance or legacy are not justified. He and his descendants are excluded from legal succession,' the will reportedly states.

But Carl-Clemens believes he should be entitled to the compulsory shares he would have received had his mother not removed him from the will.

Veltins' turnover in 2023 alone was some 441 million euros.

The disgruntled would-be heir says that he tried to resolve the perceived slight peacefully back in 2016, but that his family was not receptive.

Now, his lawyers are pursuing a suit against the Veltins sisters to claim back compensation Carl-Clemens believes he is rightfully owed.

A statement provided to Handelsblatt by law firm Grant Thornton read: 'There is no doubt that Mr. Veltins was taken advantage of... All children are entitled to a ''minimum share in the inheritance''.

'The systematic and complete exclusion of Mr. Veltins was therefore immoral... the mother took advantage of the complete innocence and trust of the son, who was inexperienced in business, to his detriment.'

MailOnline has contacted Veltins Brewery representatives for comment.
Donald Trump is weighing in on Ronna McDaniel's extremely short-lived tenure at NBC News after the former Republican National Committee chair was fired just days after being hired by the network.

The ex-president took to social media with series of posts on McDaniel where he said she is in a place you don't want to be in.

'She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear,' he wrote. 'It leaves her in a very strange place, its called NEVER NEVERLAND, and its not a place you want to be.'

He went on 'These Radical Left Lunatics are CRAZY, and the top people at NBC ARE WEAK.'

In another long post, Trump went after Chuck Todd, the former moderator of NBC's Meet the Press, who was one of the network employees who blasted McDaniel being put on the payroll.

Trump ended his post with, 'If I knew Ronna was going to troubled MSNBC, I would have advised her to change her name back to Romney, she would have had a better chance!'

Ronna McDaniel appeared on Meet the Press on Sunday after it was announced she had been hired by NBC as a political contributor. She was dropped by the network just days after joining is after her hiring outraged employees

McDaniel served as RNC chair while Trump was president. She stepped down from that job amid pressure from Trump on March 8

NBC officially dropped McDaniel on Tuesday only four days after announcing she was joining the network as a political contributor. The announcement of her hiring on Friday sparked immediate backlash across the network.

Morning Joe hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski said they would not invite her on their MSNBC program. Todd went on an on-air rant over her being hired, slamming McDaniel's support for Trump's false 2020 election fraud claims.

Her deal with the network amounted to roughly $300,000 a year, according to the New York Times.

In a statement Tuesday evening, NBCUniversal chairman Cesar Conde said: 'After listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor.'

McDaniel served as RNC chair from 2017 until earlier this month when she stepped down amid pressure from Trump who wanted loyalist Michael Whatley and his daughter-in-law Lara Trump to lead the party.

Radio host Hugh Hewitt slammed NBC for dropping McDaniel on Fox News and said she was going to sue for infliction of mental distress.

While NBC employees were outraged by her being hired, conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, who is a friend of McDaniel, said he has never seen anything 'this brutal' of her ousting.

'Ronna is going to sue everyone who defamed her for breach of contraction, for intentional inflection of mental distress,' Hewitt said during an appearance on Fox News.

'They're going to sue for the destruction of her business opportunities that come from being on TV,' he added.

'I think they made a terrible decision and they allowed the MSNBC bleed to take over their network.'

He claimed the 'cult has taken over the news division.'

Todd offered a stunning on-air rebuke of his own network on Sunday for hiring McDaniel.

He said there were a lot of journalists uncomfortable with her being hired by the network because their professional dealings with the RNC over the past six years 'have been met with gaslighting, have been met with character assassination.'

MSNBC host Rachel Maddow had also blasted McDaniel being hired by her network. She took specific issue with McDaniel over how she promoted false election fraud claims.

After McDaniel was dropped on Tuesday, Maddow reacted on air calling it a sign of respect from leadership that heard the criticism coming from across the network.

She said she was grateful NBC leadership did the 'bold, strong thing.'
Kate Garraway could be forced to sell a second home worth 1.7million after running up debts of up to 800,000 caring for her late husband Derek Draper.

The Good Morning Britain host and former political lobbyist Derek paid 550,000 in 2004 for the three bed Georgian town house in Islington, north London.

MailOnline can reveal that they kept the property when they bought their five-bedroom home around four miles away in Muswell Hill for 1,425,000 in 2016.

The couple lived in the more spacious semi-detached house in Muswell Hill with their two children while apparently renting out their former home.

Property website Zoopla estimates that the Islington house has more than tripled in value to more than 1.7m since Kate and Derek bought it.

But a question mark remains over how much equity Kate has left in the house following Derek's death aged 56 in January after his near four-year battle against Covid complications.

Kate Garraway could be forced to sell a second home worth 1.7million after running up debts of up to 800,000 caring for her late husband Derek Draper. Above: Kate and Derek with her parents after she was made an MBE at Windsor Castle in June last year

The Good Morning Britain host and former political lobbyist Derek paid 550,000 in 2004 for the three bed Georgian town house in Islington, north London

Land Registry records reveal that the property had a charge taken out on it by the Royal Bank of Scotland in March 2016 at the time that they bought their new family home.

The charge appears to have been security for a loan to help fund the purchase of their new house in the leafy enclave of Muswell Hill in north London.

Records show that a further mortgage was taken out on the Muswell Hill house in 2018 through the same bank.

The size of the charge and mortgage is not disclosed in the documents, so it is not known how much Kate owes on it and how much she would be left with if it was sold.

MailOnline revealed yesterday how Kate, 56, and Derek had faced financial problems for years with three of their companies going bust owing more than 2m.

Kate, who once earned a reported 540,000 a year, revealed the extent of her personal debts this week in her moving new ITV documentary, Kate Garraway: Derek's Story.

She claimed the 16,000 monthly cost of care for largely bed-bound Derek and paying for him to receive pioneering treatment in Mexico had left her owing up to 800,000.

It was revealed in January that she faced the prospect of selling her home in Muswell Hill which she had specially adapted for Derek during his illness.

MailOnline can reveal that they kept the property when they bought their five bedroom home (above) around four miles away in Muswell Hill for 1,425,000 in 2016. The property had been reported to be worth around 4million, but Zoopla suggests its true value might be half as much

Derek's death was confirmed on January 3 after the former political lobbyist suffered a fatal cardiac arrest. He was 56-years old

The property had been reported to be worth around 4million, but Zoopla suggests its true value might be half as much.

Land Registry records confirm that the property had a mortgage taken out on it at the time of its purchase and another in 2019, although the amounts still owed are not disclosed.

Haringey Council records show that Kate was given consent to build a two storey extension, and to install a lift and to convert a cloakroom into a wetroom for Derek after he fell ill.

Kate talked in depth about her perilous financial state in her new documentary, which was filmed when Derek was still alive.

She said: 'Derek's care costs more than my salary from ITV and that is before you pay for a mortgage, before you pay any household bills, before you pay for anything for the kids, so we are at a crunch point.

'I am in debt. I can't earn enough money to cover my debt because I am managing Derek's care and I can't even use the money I do have to support Derek's recovery because it's going on the basics all the time.'

Speaking on Good Morning Britain yesterday, a deeply emotional Kate, who returned to co-host the show on Fridays only a month after Derek's death, said she felt 'ashamed' to be in debt.

Kate transformed the family home in Muswell Hill to suit Derek's needs as he required round-the-clock care while he continued his recovery

The presenter is thought to have spent thousands of pounds on professional help for her late husband - who was confined to a wheelchair

She converted the ground floor lounge into a new bedroom, which was fitted with a hospital bed for Derek (pictured). The virus had damaged the former lobbyist's muscles and internal organs

She said: 'I'm not a carer travelling miles, paying for my own transport, to help someone.

'I'm someone who is very well-paid, and I feel ashamed that I couldn't make it work.'

Kate also admitted that she had now entered 'survival mode' to keep things as normal as possible for the couple's two children.

MailOnline told yesterday how Derek's company Astra Aspera Ltd, which he set up in 2011 after he became a psychotherapist, went into liquidation in March 2022, owing 716,822 to HMRC and 196,548 to four other creditors.

Kate shared overall control of the company with him when she became a director of in 2021 in an apparent move to help control his financial affairs after he became ill.

But the latest report by liquidators says it is unlikely that any of its debts totalling 913,371 will be paid back.

The report states: 'HMRC has submitted a preferential claim in the liquidation of 716,822 and the claims are under review.'

But it adds that there are 'insufficient funds' to repay debts owed to the taxman or claims from other creditors, including a 50,000 Virgin Bank loan and an accountants' bill of 8,266.80.

Kate has opened up about the crippling debt she accrued caring for husband Derek Draper, admitting she's at 'crunch point'

Astra Aspera, which in Latin means 'through suffering to the stars', was solvent in 2019 prior to the pandemic, but accounts published in 2021 showed there was concern over the impact of the lockdown.

The accounts said: 'This outbreak is likely to cause significant disruption to the company's income and continuing activities but the director has taken measures to ensure that the company remains solvent and able to trade by cutting costs to a level which can be supported by anticipated revenue.'

MailOnline can reveal that the financial woes of Astra Aspera came eight years after two companies owned by Kate and Derek were dissolved with reported unpaid debts totalling more than 1 million.

Fulfill Media Ltd which was set up jointly by the couple in 2006 had liquidators appointed in 2014 and was dissolved in May 2014 owing 917,807 and with no assets to pay its debts.

The company's debts included 88,486 owed to HMRC, 90,882 to trade creditors, 462,808 in 'third party loans', 235,074 to an inter-company creditor and 45,557 in director's loans.

Countrymouse Media Ltd was set up by the couple in 2005 and had liquidators appointed in 2012 before being dissolved in December 2014, owing 149,344.

The company's debts included 98,944 owed to the taxman and a total of 48,000 leant to the company by Kate and Derek, meaning they were owed 24,000 each.

Companies House records reveal Kate still has her own personal media firm Praespero 100 Ltd which was set up in 2021.

It has filed one set of accounts which reveal it had 36,888 in reserves up to November 30, 2022.

Former political spin doctor Derek also had other debts from his time studying an MA in clinical psychology from 2001 to 2004 at the Wright Institute in Berkeley, California.

He was being chased by California courts for not paying 1,633 in traffic fines and risked being arrested if he ever entered the country again.

MailOnline has approached Kate for comment.
MARCH 2020

Kate revealed she and Prince Charles had got 'relatively close' at the Prince's Trust Awards on March 11 - Charles was diagnosed with coronavirus in mid-March.

She said: 'Around the 29/30 March, I came home came in and said [to Derek] 'god you look ill.'

'He said he had a headache, numbness in his right hand, and was struggling to breathe,

'I rang Dr Hilary (Jones) and tried to get through, he talked to Derek. He said put me back on, I think you need to call an ambulance'

Derek, 52, was taken into hospital on March 30 and remained in an unresponsive condition.

APRIL

Kate and her children isolated at home after she displayed 'mild symptoms'.

Kate said: 'Derek remains in intensive care and is still very ill. I'm afraid it remains an excruciatingly worrying time.

'I'm afraid he is still in a deeply critical condition, but he is still here, which means there is hope.'

MAY

Kate said: 'The journey for me and my family seems to be far from over as every day my heart sinks as I learn new and devastating ways this virus has more battles for Derek to fight.

'But he is still HERE & so there is still hope.'

That month, Kate and her family took part in the final clap for carers

She said: 'I'll never give up on that because Derek's the love of my life but at the same time I have absolute uncertainty'

JUNE

On June 5, Kate revealed Derek is now free from coronavirus but continues to fight against the damage inflicted on his body

JULY

On July 5, Kate revealed Derek has woken from his coma but he remains in a serious yet critical condition.

On July 8, she announced she would be returning to GMB, after being urged by doctors to 'get on with life' during Derek's recovery.

She added that Derek had 'opened his eyes' after waking from his coma, but has been told his recovery could take years.

On July 13, Kate returned to GMB for the first time since Derek was hospitalised.

On July 28, Kate revealed she'd paid an 'extra emotional' first visit to Derek, and admitted she's 'frustrated' by his slow progress.

AUGUST

On August 14, Kate reassured GMB viewers that Derek was 'still with us,' but it was 'a waiting game.'

On August 19, Kate revealed she celebrated Derek's birthday with their two children, and described the day as 'challenging' for her family.

SEPTEMBER

At the end of September, Derek reportedly becomes the longest surviving patient with coronavirus after spending 184 days in and out of intensive care.

Kate reveals Derek has lost eight stone during his battle.

The presenter announces she is returning to her Smooth Radio show so Derek can hear her voice.

OCTOBER

On October 30 Kate reveals that Derek has spoken for the first time in seven months, saying the word 'pain' to his wife, who watched on 'in tears' over FaceTime.

Kate says a day later that her husband no longer needs a ventilator to breathe.

NOVEMBER

Kate reveals her family car has been stolen in latest 'body blow' to her family life, as kind-hearted fans offer their cars to help.

She says she feels 'physically sick' at the prospect of facing her first Christmas without Derek.

DECEMBER

The GMB star tells viewers it is her dream to visit Derek on Christmas Day.

She also reveals she missed two weeks on GMB after her children were exposed to the virus, but thankfully she and the kids tested negative.

On December 17, Kate has an emotional conversation live on GMB with two nurses who treated Derek when he was first admitted to Whittington Hospital in North London.

On New Year's Eve she reflects on a 'calamitous' Christmas without Derek, as her house was flooded and she struggled to get a food delivery slot until her pal Emma Willis stepped in to help.

JANUARY 2021

Kate reveals she and her children got to visit Derek in hospital over the Christmas period, and it was the first time her family had seen him since he was hospitalised.

She also says she's banned from seeing him due to new restrictions introduced during the government's third lockdown.

FEBRUARY

Kate reveals she is unsure how much Derek will 'ever be able to recover' following warning from doctors that he may never wake from his coma

MARCH

Kate revealed that was in the process of adapting her home to suit Derek's needs when he is finally released from hospital, in the ITV documentary Finding Derek.

The programmed was praised by viewers for offering a heartbreaking look at the long-term effects of coronavirus.

Kate also revealed that Derek has 'no muscle left' since battling Covid

APRIL

Kate revealed that Derek was finally allowed to leave hospital, but would require round-the-clock care once he was returned home.

MAY

Kate revealed that despite now being home with his family, his communication abilities were 'minimal' and he 'couldn't really move'

DECEMBER

During an appearance on Piers Morgan's Life Stories, Kate revealed that Derek had said 'I love you' for the first time.

After celebrating Christmas, Derek was also pictured in a wheelchair during a trip to the pantomime with his family

JANUARY 2022

Kate revealed that Derek was 'very fatigued' and 'very weak' following the family outing, adding: 'I don't know what this year is going to bring.'

FEBRUARY

Kate offered a glimpse into the daily struggles of looking after her husband amid his battle with long Covid in the documentary Caring For Derek

She also revealed that Derek would die within three days if he was left alone to care for himself.

JULY

On July 6, Kate revealed that Derek had been re-admitted to hospital after suffering a 'downturn,' and in a later interview said she takes things 'day by day.'

On July 20, it was reported that Kate had pulled out of hosting Good Morning Britain to be at Derek's bedside after he took a 'very serious' turn for the worse.

Recalling the day, the presenter told The Sun: 'At one point Derek said to me, "This is it, this time. I am gone." It was just terrifying.

'His sepsis was gut-wrenching for all of us because it had gone undiagnosed until the point where it was about to take his life away again.'

JANUARY 2023

Kate became overwhelmed as she confronted former health secretary Matt Hancock over his handling of the pandemic and his decision to go on I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here.

She then became tearful and looked up as she spoke about Derek, who has been unwell for approaching three years.

Describing public anger towards him, Kate added of his decision: 'This gives the impression you still don't get why they are cross. You still don't get why people are upset. They want to hold you to more account.'

APRIL

Kate revealed that Derek was once again receiving care in hospital, as she shared the emotional moment Sir Elton John dedicated a song to the 'inspiring' couple.

She shared the emotional moment Sir Elton John dedicated a song to the 'inspiring' couple, writing on Instagram: 'Yes Derek has been back in hospital this week & yes there's such a long road ahead but #eltonjohn & @davidfurnish you gave the kids & Derek a moment that we will never forget and has lifted their spirits again to feel anything is possible.'

It was also reported that Kate was planning a trip across the world for pioneering treatment in a 'final hope' to help her husband.

MAY

Kate reportedly faced a huge 716,000 tax bill after she was forced to close her husband's business two years after he became stricken with Covid-19.

The final total will be settled within the coming weeks, with friends insisting she will pay whatever is owed.

A friend told The Sun: 'The figures are terrifying and Kate is of course worried about all the financial pressures, but she has to trust the process.

'When it comes to an end, she is determined to pay back anything that's owed.

'It's no secret that Kate has been battling to keep her husband alive and working through some heartbreaking situations in her personal life in recent years.

'Sadly as well as the emotional stress of Derek's terrible illnesses the financial burden has also been crippling.'

DECEMBER

Derek was left fighting for his life after suffering a heart attack.

Kate held a 24/7 vigil by his bedside and cancelled all work commitments while the family 'prayed for a miracle'.

A source said: 'It was sudden and a shock as he had been doing so well and was in great spirits, looking forward to Christmas at home with the family.

'This setback has been a huge blow for his family and all the people caring for him. Kate is by his side 24 hours a day and is willing him on to win this latest battle for his life.

'Derek has fought so many times, and always, against all odds, come out the other side.'

JANUARY 2024

Kate announced on January 5 that Derek had passed away.

She said: 'Derek was surrounded by his family in his final days and I was by his side holding his hand throughout the last long hours and when he passed.

'I have so much more to say, and of course I will do so in due course, but for now I just want to thank all the medical teams who fought so hard to save him and to make his final moments as comfortable and dignified as possible'.

MailOnline understands he passed away on January 3 in a North London hospital.

He is survived by wife Kate and their children Darcey, 17, and son William, 14.
This is the moment a man pushed a cart with his 18-year-old daughter's corpse inside after he allegedly strangled her and paid a homeless man $2 to set her on fire on a street in southeastern Brazil.

Wellington da Silva, 39, was arrested Wednesday and confessed to murdering Raysa da Silva, at his home in Sao Paulo on Sunday, the Sao Paulo Civil Police said.

A surveillance camera mounted outside his apartment showed him struggling with the cart and pushing it inside the elevator.

Wellington Da Silva confessed that he and his daughter were drinking and began arguing over the separation, which took place several months ago, State Department of Homicide and Personal Protection chief Ivalda Aleixo told Brazilian news outlet G1.

At one point, he became upset because his daughter insisted her support for her mother and he allegedly strangled her.

A surveillance camera captured the moment Wellington da Silva pushed a cart carrying the corpse of Raysa da Silva, his 18-year-old daughter, on Monday, a day after he strangled her during an argument over failing to support him after he separated from her mother. Wellington da Silva told police he hired a homeless man and paid him $2 to set her body on fire

Wellington da Silva was captured Wednesday by cops in Sao Paulo and confessed to strangling his daughter and paying a homeless man $2 to burn her body. He has a rap sheet for drug trafficking, attempted murder, robbery and theft

Raysa da Silva was murdered by her father after she visited at his home in Sao Paulo, Brazil on Sunday. The 18-year-old was set on fire and had her body dumped on a street, where pedestrians noticed it Tuesday and alerted police

Wellington Da Silva said that he fell asleep with Raysa da Silva's corpse in the apartment and removed her body Monday evening, cops say.

He allegedly approached a homeless man and instructed him to buy fuel from a nearby gas station and set her body on fire.

'He stated that he paid [$2] to set a fire,' Aleixo said. 'And for that purpose, one liter of ethanol was used.'

Raysa da Silva's mother reported her missing with a local police station Monday.

Pedestrians alerted police Tuesday morning after discovering the teenager's charred body in under the broken section of a road pavement.

Authorities launched a manhunt for the homeless man and have been canvassing area security cameras to corroborate Wellington da Silva's claims.

Wellington da Silva is facing feminicide, destruction and concealment of a body charges.

He was scheduled to appear before a judge Wednesday afternoon as authorities will seek to place him in pretrial detention.

'The mother was desperate and feared that if he was not located and arrested he could try to kill her other minor son or even her,' Ivalda said. 'His objective was to harm his ex-wife with the death of her daughter. Such cruelty, coldness and evil is not possible in a man, in a father. And why? Because he was rejected by a woman.'
The six construction crew members, thrown into the frigid waters of the Patapsco River when a container ship collided with the bridge they were working on, were on their break when the tragedy occurred.

Miguel Luna, 49, originally of El Salvador and Maynor Suazo, 37, originally of Honduras were on the graveyard shift with the rest of their Hispanic crew when the Dali ship lost propulsion and caused the collapse of the iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

Luna lived in the United States for the past 19 years, Suazo for 18 years. Both are fathers.

A member of their team who happened to not be working in the early hours of Tuesday, Jesus Campos, said that his colleagues were on their meal break likely inside one of the service trucks at the time of the crash.

Campos paid tribute to his friends in an interview with The New York Times, saying that most in the job were sending money to relatives in their homelands. The group all worked for a company named Brawner.

'They were wonderful family people. Spouses, children. It's just a very, very bad day,' said Brawner executive Jeffrey Pritzker. The company regularly does upkeep on historical buildings such as the Key Bridge and were fixing potholes on Tuesday.

The first of the six: Miguel Luna, 49, was the first missing construction worker identified following the collapse

Maynor Suazo, 37, a native of Honduras has been named as the other man missing and presumed dead

'They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they can't give us information. [We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we don't know if they've rescued them yet. We're just waiting to hear any news,' Luna's wife, Maria del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo 44.

Suazo, a native of Honduras, was identified in his homeland as another worker who is missing and presumed to be dead. Suazo, a father of two, had been living in the US for the past 18 years.

Guatemala's consulate in Maryland said in a statement that two of the missing were citizens of the Central American nation. It did not provide their names but said consular officials were in contact with authorities and assisting the families.

Mexican officials have said that some of their citizens are missing but did not say how many.

Maynor Suazo's brother, Martin, told Honduran television that his brother was a native of Santa Barbara, in the western part of the country, Martin said that his brother emigrated in order to 'improve the quality of his life.'

Martin said that he plans to travel to the United States in order to repatriate his brother's remains.

In a separate interview with CNN, Martin confirmed that Suazo is survived by his son, 18, and daughter, five. In that interview, Martin reiterated his brother's desire for a better life in the US and said that he had also started his own maintenance company.

'Maynor Suazo was a guy with warmth, quality of people, entrepreneur with a vision and mission to serve our community,' a family friend wrote in a touching Facebook tribute.

'They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they can't give us information. [We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken,' Luna's wife told a local news outlet

People look out toward the Francis Scott Key Bridge following its collapse after the Singapore-flagged Dali container ship collided with it along the Patapsco River on March 26

The ship's crew issued a mayday call moments before the crash took down the Francis Scott Key Bridge, enabling authorities to limit vehicle traffic on the span, Maryland's governor said.

As the vessel neared the bridge, puffs of black smoke could be seen as the lights flickered on and off. It struck one of the bridge's supports, causing the structure to collapse like a toy, and a section of the span came to rest on the bow.

With the ship barreling toward the bridge at 'a very, very rapid speed,' authorities had just enough time to stop cars from coming over the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said.

'These people are heroes,' Moore said. 'They saved lives last night.'

In the evening, Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent for Maryland State Police, announced that the search and rescue mission was transitioning to one of search and recovery.

He also said the search was being put on pause and divers would return to the site at 6 a.m. Wednesday, when challenging overnight conditions were expected to improve. No bodies have been recovered, Butler said.

The crash happened in the middle of the night, long before the busy morning commute on the bridge that stretches 1.6 miles and was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

The six missing people were part of a construction crew filling potholes on the bridge, said Paul Wiedefeld, the state's transportation secretary.

A senior executive at the company that employed the workers also said, in the afternoon, that the workers were presumed dead given the water's depth and how much time had passed.

Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, said the crew was working in the middle of the bridge when it came down.

'This was so completely unforeseen,' Pritzker said. 'We don't know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers.'

Luna and the rest of his construction crew are now considered dead

'I know that a month ago, I was there, and I know what it feels like when the trailers pass,' Campos said. 'Imagine knowing that is falling. It is so hard. One would not know what to do.'

Father Ako Walker, a Roman Catholic priest at Sacred Heart of Jesus, said he spent time with the families of the missing workers as they waited for news of their loved ones.

'You can see the pain etched on their faces,' Walker said.

Rescuers pulled two people out of the water, one of whom was treated at a hospital and discharged hours later. Multiple vehicles also went into the river, although authorities did not believe anyone was inside.

'It looked like something out of an action movie,' Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said, calling it 'an unthinkable tragedy.'

A police dispatcher put out a call just before the collapse saying a ship had lost its steering and asked officers to stop all traffic on the bridge, according to Maryland Transportation Authority first responder radio traffic.

One officer who stopped traffic radioed that he was going to drive onto the bridge to alert the construction crew.

But seconds later, a frantic officer said: 'The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever, everybody ... the whole bridge just collapsed.'

The Singaporean flagged ship the Dali was en route to Sri Lanka when the crash occurred

A police dispatcher put out a call just before the collapse saying a ship had lost its steering and asked officers to stop all traffic on the bridge, according to Maryland Transportation Authority first responder radio traffic

On a separate radio channel for maintenance and construction workers, someone said officers were stopping traffic because a ship had lost steering.

There was no follow-up order to evacuate, and 30 seconds later the bridge fell and the channel went silent.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, according to the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Tuesday's collapse is sure to create a logistical nightmare along the East Coast for months, if not years, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major hub. The loss of the bridge will also snarl cargo and commuter traffic.

'Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast,' state Sen. Johnny Ray Salling said.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said at a news conference that it was too soon to estimate how long it will take to clear the channel, which is about 50 feet (15 meters) deep.

'I do not know of a bridge that has been constructed to withstand a direct impact from a vessel of this size,' he said.

The Dali, which was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka and flying under a Singapore flag, is about 985 feet (300 meters) long and about 157 feet (48 meters) wide, according to according to data from Marine Traffic.

Synergy Marine Group, which manages the ship, confirmed that it hit a pillar of the bridge at about 1:30 a.m. while in control of one or more pilots, who are local specialists who help guide vessels safely into and out of ports. The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd.

Synergy said all crew members and the two pilots on board were accounted for, and there were no reports of any injuries.

The ship was moving at 8 knots, roughly 9 mph, the governor said.

Inspectors found a problem with the Dali's machinery in June, but a more recent examination did not identify any deficiencies, according to the shipping information system Equasis.

Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

Jagged remnants of the bridge could be seen jutting up from the water in the aftermath of the collapse. The on-ramp ended abruptly where the span once began.

Donald Heinbuch, a retired chief with Baltimore's fire department, said he was startled awake by a deep rumbling that shook his house for several seconds and 'felt like an earthquake.' He drove to the river's edge and couldn't believe what he saw.

'The ship was there, and the bridge was in the water, like it was blown up,' he said.

President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore and intends for the federal government to pick up the entire cost of rebuilding

News of the bridge collapse made headlines worldwide

The bridge spans the Patapsco River at the entrance to the busy harbor, which leads to the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Opened in 1977, the bridge is named for the scribe of the Star Spangled Banner.

Wiedefeld said all vessel traffic into and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though the facility was still open to trucks.

President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore and intends for the federal government to pick up the entire cost of rebuilding.

'This is going to take some time,' Biden said.

Last year the Port of Baltimore handled a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo worth $80 billion, according to the state.

The head of a supply chain management company said Americans should expect shortages of goods from the collapse's effect on ocean container shipping and East Coast trucking.

'It's not just the port of Baltimore that's going to be impacted,' said Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport.

The collapse, though, is not likely to hurt worldwide trade because Baltimore is not a major port for container vessels. its its facilities are more important when it comes to goods such as farm equipment and autos, said Judah Levine, head of research for global freight booking platform Freightos.
A Las Vegas assistant principal has been recorded making sleazy comments to a 13-year-old female student.

Howard Hughes, 61, was caught making inappropriate remarks to the eight grade student of Del Webb Middle School.

Grim audio obtained by 8 News Now reveals how him telling the girl how she was 'dangerous' and got him 'excited'.

'I can't believe I was that close to you. Some things are happening inside of me,' Hughes is heard saying in the recording.

'I think about you all the time, like 24/7 it seems like. You don't seem like a student. It seems like I've known you forever. It seems like you're an adult,' he added.

Assistant principal Howard Hughes has been recorded making sleazy comments to a 13-year-old female student

He was caught on tape making inappropriate remarks to the eight grade student of Del Webb Middle School including telling her he wanted to hug and kiss her

'You look like an adult. Very mature for your age.'

In another segment he discusses wanting to hug and kiss the youngster.

'If people wasn't out there right now, I would hug you so tight. I might even want to kiss you,' he says.

The recordings sparked an investigation by Clark County School District Police and Hughes resigned from his post before fleeing to Texas.

US marshals arrested him amid fears he would attempt to escape to Mexico.

Hughes is currently being held in jail in Ellis County, Texas on a $100,000 bond and will eventually be extradited back to Nevada.

A student told investigators she was first invited into Hughes' office in October to discuss personal and mental health problems.

But it was not long before the sleazy comments began.

Hughes fled to Texas after the recordings emerged but was apprehended by US marshals and sent to jail awaiting extradition back to Clark County

'Passionate, like not sex. Not [expletive]. There's a difference. When you make love to somebody, it's because you truly love them.

'Everything else is just sex, or just [expletive],' Hughes is heard saying at one point in the recording.

Hughes has been charged with three counts of online solicitation of a minor for sex, three counts of indecency with a child.

In Henderson, Nevada the charges are three counts of contacting a minor by a person of authority for sex.

Hughes was hired by the school district in 2022, however he has since been scrubbed from the Del Webb website.
Hunter Biden is readying another high-profile courtroom drama on Wednesday, when his lawyers will ask a judge to throw out the charges against him for failing to pay over $1 million in taxes.

His attorneys will return to federal court in Los Angeles where a judge will consider the dismissal of the nine tax charges against Hunter brought by special counsel David Weiss.

His lawyers have launched efforts to throw out part or all of the charges and Trump-appointed U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi will decide the fate of the case.

The charges stem from what federal prosecutors say was a four-year scheme to skip out on paying the $1.4 million he owed to the IRS and instead use the money to fund an 'extravagant lifestyle' that by his own admission included drugs and alcohol.

Hunter Biden is readying another high-profile courtroom drama on Wednesday, when his lawyers will ask a judge to throw out the charges against him for failing to pay over $ 1 million in taxes

His lawyers have launched efforts to throw out part or all of the charges and Trump-appointed U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi will decide the fate of the case

The charges span the 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 tax years.

Meanwhile, Hunter Biden, 53, has also been charged in Delaware with lying in October 2018 on a federal form for gun purchasers when he swore he wasn't using or addicted to illegal drugs. He was addicted to crack cocaine at the time. He is also accused of possessing the gun illegally and has pleaded not guilty in that case.

Federal prosecutors say Hunter repeatedly failed to pay his taxes on time, missed deadlines to pay debts he owed to the IRS and criminally evaded taxes by cooking his books and filing false returns.

The Justice Department says Hunter faces up to 17 years in prison for the tax charges and 25 years for the gun charges if convicted, in dual cases that could have a devastating impact on his father's presidential campaign.

Hunter is accused of dodging taxes on income he received from China and Ukraine - giving fodder to Republicans who have accused Hunter of corruptly profiting off overseas business dealings through his last name.

Hunter will return to federal court in Los Angeles where a judge will consider the dismissal of the nine tax charges against him brought by special counsel David Weiss

For six months they've been probing his dealings for a reason to impeach Joe Biden. Hunter's lawyers have seized on this, claiming Weiss 'caved to outside pressure' from Donald Trump and House Republicans, who demanded his prosecution.

'Biden is being targeted because of his political and familial affiliations,' they wrote.

The indictment states that despite receiving millions in personal income and financial support from a friend, Hunter 'spent this money on drugs, escorts and girlfriends, luxury hotels and rental properties, exotic cars, clothing, and other items of a personal nature, in short, everything but his taxes.'

Hunter's lawyers also argued the case must be thrown out because it had been tainted by a pair of IRS agents who previously worked on the case before becoming whistleblowers and testifying in the House GOP impeachment inquiry.

'The government's actions in this case are beyond egregious,' they wrote, accusing the whistleblowers of 'vigilante justice' and 'taking the law into their own hands' by leaking tax records.

The trial for the gun charges in Delaware is set to begin June 3, weeks before the June 20 trial for the tax charges in California.

Last summer a proposed plea deal sensationally fell apart after questioning from a judge.

The charges against him were set to be held over as part of a plea deal Hunter struck with prosecutors, in which he would admit to tax crimes for deliberately failing to file and pay his tax bill on millions of dollars of income.

But a Judge Maryellen Noreika in July brought up a controversial clause that would give him blanket immunity for other offenses.

Noreika asked both prosecutor Leo Wise and Hunter's lawyer at the time Chris Clark whether this meant Hunter could still be potentially be charged with failing to register as a foreign agent, violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA).

Wise said yes. Clark said he did not agree, and the deal was off.

After a recess, Hunter's lawyers agreed that only immunity from tax, gun, and drug crimes would be offered. But Noreika was still skeptical of the deal's unusual structure. Since then, talks have floundered over the scope of Hunter's immunity.
A mother has warned other parents over button batteries after her nine-month-old baby girl was left with a burnt throat when she accidentally swallowed one.

Kiara West, 24, first noticed a problem when her daughter Rosantina West began wheezing on February 14.

When her husband Daniel West, 22, took their baby to the ER, doctors sent them home with a nebuliser, suggesting Rosantina had RSV, a respiratory virus much like the common-cold.

But when her baby's wheezing got worse, Ms West took her to Minnesota Children's Hospital on February 16, where an x-ray quickly revealed that a button battery was lodged in her oesophagus.

The small, shiny batteries are used in devices like TV remotes, watches, calculators and kitchen weighing scales - and they are behind several children having to be hospitalised every week since swallowing them can cause severe burns.

Little Rosantina West (pictured) began wheezing on February 14 and the real cause was not discovered until two days later, when she was wheeled into emergency surgery

When Rosantina's wheezing got worse, Ms West took her to Minnesota Children's Hospital on February 16, where an x-ray quickly revealed that a button battery was lodged in her oesophagus

The acid leaking from the batteries starts to burn through the oesophagus as little as 30 minutes after being ingested, causing life-long injuries and in some cases, even death (pictured: hospital scans reveal the burns in Rosantina's throat)

The acid leaking from the batteries starts to burn through the oesophagus as little as 30 minutes after being ingested, causing life-long injuries and in some cases, even death.

Mother-of-two Ms West was left in tears when doctors revealed just how lethal the button battery could be, before Rosantina was quickly admitted to the operating table.

READ MORE: Toddler bleeds to death after swallowing button battery that burned through the 23-month-old's organs as his North Carolina paramedic parents battled to save his life Advertisement

Daniel, who works as a forklift operator, later discovered two items at home that they suspect the button battery could have come from: a remote for LED lights or their three-year-old son Kidan's light-up toy car for the bath.

While a surgeon was able to successfully remove the battery from Rosantina's throat, the couple now hope to warn others of the dangers button batteries can pose.

Ms West, from Chanhassen, Minnesota, said: 'At first when it happened I just noticed her wheezing. My husband took her to the local ER and they sent her home saying it was RSV, a respiratory issue.

'They sent her home with a nebuliser and they said it'd get better after a few times of using it.

'I used it all night one day, all Thursday, but then Friday morning her wheezing got even worse. I thought 'I need to take her to the children's hospital'.

'That's where they ended up taking an x-ray and seeing that she'd swallowed the button battery. My heart just dropped to my stomach.

'I heard "battery" and thought "wow that's bad" because of the acid.

Mother-of-two Ms West (left) was left in tears when doctors revealed just how lethal the button battery could be, before Rosantina was quickly admitted to the operating table

Kiara West shared devastating images of her daughter hooked up to machines following surgery to remove the button battery

Hospital scans reveal the devastating burns in nine-month-old Rosantina's throat

The button battery that was inside nine-month-old Rosantina's throat

Father Daniel West (right), 22, with his daughter Rosantina, 9, while she was in hospital after her surgery

'I didn't even know how much damage that could have caused but seeing it lodged in there, I was as scared and shocked as any parent would be.

'Everyone seemed so rushed and I started to think "maybe this is worse than what I thought?"

READ MORE: Father warns parents to beware of button batteries after his son almost died after swallowing one and needed 28 operations to save his life Advertisement

'I already thought it was bad but they quickly started prepping her for the operating room.

'They said the button battery is one of the worst batteries a child could swallow and that she had it lodged in her oesophagus. It burnt into her oesophagus.

'Rosantina was just crying and crying. She's only nine months old so we couldn't even explain to her what was happening.'

The terrified mum only realised the extent of the danger when her husband arrived and doctors explained again how bad button batteries can be.

The hospital gave Rosantina medicine to coat the battery before putting her under anaesthesia and operating on her throat to remove the battery.

She remained intubated for six days after the surgery due to the damage caused to her oesophagus, with her parents unable to talk to her or touch her.

Ms West said: 'My husband came immediately. They explained everything to him and that's when I really started listening.

'At first, I'd been so focused on my daughter and what was going to happen that I was just in my head.

Since Rosantina's surgery, her parents have removed all items in their house with button batteries and warn other parents to do the same or invest in a play pen to help keep an eye on little infants

This chilling time-lapse experiment involving a battery and a chicken fillet shows what just one button battery can do if a child swallows it - after 30 minutes (left) and four hours (right)

Mother Kiara West, 24, with her nine-month-old daughter Rosantina, who was hospitalised after swallowing a button battery

'But then Daniel was like 'okay you need to stop crying' that's when I started listening. They said they were going to have a lot of trouble because it was burnt into her tissue.

'The operation was thankfully successful but there was so much damage done to her oesophagus that she had to be intubated.

What should you do if your child swallows a battery? Head to ER immediately. Tell the doctors that you suspect your child has swallowed a battery and it was coin-sized.

If possible, provide the medical team with the identification number found on the battery's pack.

Do not let the child eat or drink until an X-ray can determine if a battery is present.

Do not induce vomiting. Source: Battery Controlled Advertisement

'After her operation we didn't even get to talk to her or touch her until six days later. I think she could hear us a little bit but that was it.'

Relieved that their precious daughter has now recovered, the couple believe it was a 'miracle' the damage wasn't worse, with doctors suspecting the battery may have been dead.

Since then, the pair have removed all items in their house with button batteries and warn other parents to do the same or invest in a play pen to help keep an eye on little infants.

Ms West said: 'It was almost like a miracle. All the doctors were super surprised that her damage wasn't as bad as it could be.

'They think she may have swallowed a dead battery so it might be why it wasn't quite as bad.

'I'd definitely warn other parents to check all their kids' toys to make sure they don't have button batteries and just throw them out if they do.

'Of course some household items need them and things like hearing aids, but make sure the screws are tightly screwed on.

'We've looked through everything in the house with button batteries and gotten rid of them. A play pen is also definitely something that could potentially help busy parents.

'Infants get into everything especially when they start crawling so maybe consider that for extra precautions.'
A Venezuelan migrant infamous for sharing tips on how to invade vacant homes and live off the US government is on the run from ICE, it's been revealed.

Leonel Moreno's TikTok account @leitooficial_25, where he had amassed half a million followers, has been suspended after his controversial videos went viral. A spokesperson for TikTok told DailyMail.com the platform doesn't allow users to promote criminal activities.

It has now emerged that Moreno has been on the run from immigration authorities since he crossed the US-Mexico border at Eagle Pass, Texas, illegally in April 2022, as reported by The New York Post.

Moreno enrolled in the Alternatives to Detention program, which lets migrants on parole go free while officials track them until their next court date.

But Moreno, who now apparently lives near Columbus, Ohio, didn't show up for his court date in Miami in November, 2022, and is now listed as an 'absconder' from the program.

Leonel Moreno's TikTok account @leitooficial_25, where he had amassed half a million followers, has reportedly been suspended

'We have witnessed yet another individual who was allowed entry into the US under the ATD program, only to abscond and make TikTok videos explaining how to break the law,' former ICE field office director John Fabbricatore told The Post.

'The question stands - how many thousands more are out there unaccounted for after fleeing this program?'

On Tuesday, Moreno posted several clips seemingly sobbing on a newly-created account, as he claimed he was being persecuted and threatened after his original TikTok account was suspended on Saturday.

'I am in danger of death in the US! I need protection! I am being persecuted! My account has been blocked!' he said as liquid dropped from his nose.

'My people, I need you to pay attention to what's happening because my family is on danger. They erased my TikTok accounts. I have received threats from powerful people. Help!'

In another video he added: 'My people, they have gotten what they wanted! The envy has reached my family! Everything that's happening is because of your evilness!

'The want to silence me!'

It appears Moreno does not plan on stopping his particular brand of content, as he shared a clip on Wednesday counting hundred dollar bills and saying he doesn't need to work to make money.

In one of his now-viral videos, Moreno instructed his followers how to 'invade' American homes and invoke squatter's rights, claiming that under US law, 'if a house is not inhabited, we can seize it.'

Moreno also made headlines in February, after he demanded Venezuelans unite to help a 15-year-old migrant accused of shooting a tourist and trying to kill a NYPD officer in Times Square.

The videos have been widely shared as Venezuelan migrants fleeing their country's collapse become one of the largest nationalities arriving at the US-Mexico border.

It appears Moreno does not plan on stopping his particular brand of content, as he shared a clip on Wednesday counting hundred dollar bills

Some of his other videos show him claiming he is begging for money on the streets with his baby daughter

Venezuelans have taken to social media to denounce him as a troll, accusing him of using their situation to become an influencer while sparking hatred against migrants who plan on working for a better life in the US.

'Hes gone absolutely viral for all the wrong reasons and is a complete an utter embarrassment and disgrace to my home country,' wrote Daniel Laplana on X.

'I have nothing but contempt for the guy and his insufferable caricature of a Venezuelan migrant,' said Venezuelan-American Rafael Estruve, president of Houston Young Republicans.

'His charade is gross blend of incompetence and arrogance put on full display, and he is by far one of the absolute worst representations of Venezuelans on a public platform.'

Others accused Moreno or 'rage baiting' many Venezuelans believe he is purposely trying to stoke anger in order to receive more views and be profitable on TikTok as the US receives record numbers of Venezuelans.

Indeed, the coverage helped Moreno increase his followings - back in February, when one of his videos first went viral, he had under 219,000 followers, about half what he had when his account was suspended last week.

On Friday, Moreno livestreamed himself sleeping, with as many as 270 people watching the static image and sending donations.

One of the comments left by his fans read: 'Making money while you sleep jajaja you are the best.'

Some of his other videos show him claiming he is begging for money on the streets with his baby daughter. Others show him bragging about using the financial aid he supposedly receives from the government for his toddler to buy himself a car.

In several clips Moreno shows viewers a the filthy area under a bridge that he claims would serve as a great living space while saving to rent a home.

Many of his fans appear to see Moreno as some sort of comedian, with comments claiming he is playing up the stereotype of a migrant in the US.

Others videos show him bragging about using the financial aid he supposedly receives from the government for his toddler to buy himself a car

On Friday, Moreno livestreamed himself sleeping, with as many as 270 people watching the static image and sending donations

However, regardless of Moreno's intentions or real positions, his comments have sparked outrage among Americans already concerned with the crisis at the border, largely fueled by Venezuelans fleeing socialism.

One comment on Moreno's TikTok read: 'We Americans are going to vote for politicians in November that will deport you back to Venezuela as soon as possible.'

Another read: 'I hope they take away your baby and send you back to your country you're causing too much trouble.'

Venezuelans represent the largest displacement crisis in the world, with more than 7.7million people outside their nation - even larger than Ukrainians and Syrians.

It's a rare case of massive migration from a country that is not at war but has seen one of the most extreme fortune reversals in recent history after the socialist takeover 20 years ago.

Venezuela has suffered political, economic and humanitarian crises over the past decade making food and other necessities unaffordable for those who remain. The vast majority who fled settled in neighboring countries in Latin America, but many began coming to the United States in the last three years.
Within minutes of the not guilty verdicts being delivered, the jury reconvened

Three 'killers' were accused of stabbing Adrian Keise, 32, to death outside a bar

Three men accidentally cleared of killing a man due to a jury forewoman's 'mistake' have lost a High Court bid to challenge their ongoing detention in prison.

Brothers Paul and Matthew Yusuff and their friend Moussa Traore were accused of stabbing Adrian Keise, 32, to death during a scuffle outside a bar near Waterloo station, London, in 2022.

Within minutes of the not guilty verdicts being delivered, the jury at the Old Bailey was reconvened after a judge received a note indicating the jurors had not all agreed on their decisions.

When the jury forewoman was asked by Judge Charles Gratwicke if she had made a mistake when she said the jury's verdicts were unanimous, she replied: 'Yes.'

The jurors were sent out to restart their deliberations, and, while they later found Paul Yusuff not guilty of possessing a blade or point, they were unable to reach verdicts on the other counts and were discharged again.

The three men, who denied all the charges against them, sought to challenge their ongoing detention at HMP Belmarsh pending a planned retrial in December, arguing that the first not guilty verdicts were 'valid' and should not have been 'reopened'.

Brothers Paul and Matthew Yusuff and their friend Moussa Traore were accused of stabbing Adrian Keise, 32, (pictured) to death during a scuffle outside a bar in 2022

In a 20-page written ruling on Wednesday, three judges rejected their case, concluding that the jury forewoman had suffered 'a form of stage fright' amid the 'stressful environment' of court proceedings.

Dame Victoria Sharp, who heard the challenge alongside Mr Justice Holgate and Mr Justice Hilliard, said the men's 'continuing detention pending their retrial is lawful'.

Paul Yusuff, 21, and Matthew Yusuff, 23, had faced charges of murder and were also charged with an alternative count of manslaughter along with Traore, 24.

Lawyers for the trio previously argued that the ongoing detention of the trio from south London is 'illegal' because proceedings became a 'nullity' after the jury was discharged following the initial verdicts.

Kerim Faud KC, for Paul Yusuff, said that when the jurors were first let go they were outside the 'controlled and transparent environment' of the courtroom, were no longer under oath, and had 'ample time' in which they could have discussed the case among themselves or with others outside, including via phone messages.

Police guard the scene in Waterloo (pictured) where Adrian Keise was found

He said it is 'equally likely' there was a 'change of mind' within the 17 minutes before the alleged mistake was raised.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said the error came after a jury 'misunderstanding' and was 'communicated very quickly' to the judge who 'properly exercised his discretion to allow rectification of the jury's mistake'.

CPS lawyers said it could not be claimed that the jury forewoman saying she made a mistake 'was somehow untrue or inaccurate'.

Dame Victoria said that shortly before the verdicts were given the jury had sent a note 'indicating that they were not unanimous'.

The jury forewoman at the Old Bailey (pictured) was asked by Judge Charles Gratwicke if she had made a mistake when she said the jury's verdicts were unanimous, she replied: 'Yes.'

'In this case, it is plain from what happened that the forewoman had made a mistake in saying that the jury had reached unanimous verdicts,' the judge said.

She added: 'Put simply, the jury identified the mistake that had been made by their forewoman promptly; the mistake they identified was consistent with their first note to the judge - that they had not reached unanimous verdicts on any count; and the matter was then sensibly and expeditiously sorted out by the judge.'

'It cannot be said, in those circumstances, either that the judge made any jurisdictional error of such gravity as to deprive him of the jurisdiction to accept the jury's correction of the verdicts returned, or that he erred in the exercise of his discretion.'
A Netflix fantasy drama series set in the backdrop of the Chinese cultural revolution about a 'mysterious threat headed for Earth' has been berated by audiences in China.

The new show, 3 Body Problem, has received mixed reactions on Chinese social media since Netflix released it on March 21 - with many nationalists saying that the American corporation is trying to make the communist state look bad.

Netflix is unavailable in China, but some viewers have been able to watch the show through virtual private networks (VPNs) or find pirated versions.

Since its release, the show - which was created by the same people who made Game of Thrones - has received a 78 percent rating and an 81 percent average audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Chinese social media users have since accused the show of being political, and one user wrote that the cast was chosen to 'appease political correctness.'

The new Netflix series 3 Body Problem has received mixed reactions from social media users and poor reviews from individuals who are based in China

Chinese social media users have since accused the show of being political, and one user wrote on a platform that the cast was chosen to 'appease political correctness'

The eight-episode drama, which is based on an epic novel written by Liu Cixin, debuted at number two on Netflix. Cixin is China's most celebrated sci-fi author.

3 Body Problem begins with a scene depicting Mao Zedongs Cultural Revolution.

The revolution began in 1966 and lasted until Zedong's death in 1976.

The show includes a scene in which a physics professor is beaten to death by his students at Tsinghua University in Beijing. The professor allegedly taught lessons that involved the opposition or resistance to a revolutionary movement.

He was also denounced by his wife, a colleague, and his daughter, Ye Wenjie (Zine Tseng), an astrophysics prodigy who witnessed the horrible events.

The show then fast forwards to nearly 60 years later in modern-day England, where Detective Da Shi (Benedict Wong) is investigating the apparent suicides of renowned scientists.

While Wenjie is recruited by officials to search for extraterrestrials, Shi and five other scientists become involved in doing actions to help the survival of humanity.

Although the show is now receiving social media backlash, the novel on which it is based also found itself in political controversy years ago.

3 Body Problem is an eight-episode series that begins with a scene depicting Mao Zedongs Cultural Revolution

Cixin and journalist Jiayang Fan had a conversation for the New Yorker in 2019 and discussed the author's opinion about the internment of Uighurs Muslims in camps built in Xinjiang province.

Fan asked Cixin if he preferred that Uighurs be 'hacking away at bodies at train stations and schools in terrorist attacks' and said that 'the government is helping their economy and trying to lift them out of poverty.'

The journalist wrote: 'Duplicated government propaganda so exactly that I couldn't help asking Liu if he ever thought he might have been brainwashed.'

In September 2020, US senators - Marsha Blackburn, Rick Scott, Martha McSally, Kevin Cramer and Thom Tillis - wrote a letter to Netflix and accused the company of 'normalising' the Chinese government's brutal incarceration of millions of Uyghur Muslims.

'These crimes are committed systemically and at a scale which may warrant a distinction of genocide,' the letter read.

'Sadly, a number of US companies continue to either actively or tacitly allow the normalisation of, or apologism for, these crimes. The decision to produce an adaptation of Mr Liu's work can be viewed as such normalisation.'

The show then fast forwards to nearly 60 years later in modern-day England, where Detective Da Shi (Benedict Wong) is investigating the apparent suicides of renowned scientists.

While Wenjie is recruited by officials to search for extraterrestrials, Shi and five other scientists become involved in doing actions to help the survival of humanity

Eiza Gonzalez is seen holding a science-fiction virtual reality headset during one of the eight episodes of 3 Body Problem

Social media users in China have not stopped criticizing the show for its seemingly political themes.

'Netflix you dont understand The Three Body Problem or Ye Wenjie at all!' a user wrote on Weibo.

'You only understand political correctness!'

'History is far more absurd than a TV series, but you guys pretend not to see it,' another social media wrote on Douban.

X users from other countries have given the show positive and negative reviews.

However, the poor reviews have primarily criticized the show as a whole rather than its connection to politics.

Finished 3 Body Problem last night, truly enjoyed the show and they did a really good job especially certain parts of the book that I already envisioned how it would look, hopefully we get another season soon with how the last episode ended. #3BodyProblem pic.twitter.com/qagtXm0oP3  Zechs Merquise (@bwoceo) March 27, 2024

Social media users from China and other parts of the world have given poor reviews about the show. However, X users outside of China have praised the Netflix show

'I suffered through 3 Body Problem, the woke trash that it was. The fake alien invasion conspiracy theory looking better,' wrote an X user.

'They jumped to that plot line almost right after the opening credits, no mystery, no character development.'

Other Netflix users have given their approval and have called the show 'dope' and 'great.'

'I liked it, plus it helps you understand why using military force in 1989 was justified,' another person wrote.
MPs have criticised George Galloway after he shared conspiracy theories about the Princess of Wales before she announced she had cancer.

Politicians have rounded on the newly elected MP for Rochdale for speculating that the future queen could have been 'dead' just days before she revealed to the world that she had been diagnosed with the deadly disease.

Mr Galloway, who claimed victory in the Rochdale by-election earlier this month, posted a series of tweets buying into baseless conspiracy theories about the Princess of Wales in the days leading up to her shock announcement last Friday.

He speculated that Kate was 'missing' or even 'dead' before claiming that a video showing the Princess walking round a farm shop with her husband Prince William, was not her and instead was a 'woman 20 years younger'.

Fellow MPs have now condemned his actions, with one calling the 69-year-old a 'stain on British democracy', while others slammed his 'grossly insensitive and unkind comments'.

MP George Galloway has come under fire after he shared conspiracy theories about the Princess of Wales before she announced she had cancer

Mr Galloway posted a series of tweets buying into baseless conspiracy theories about the Princess of Wales in the days leading up to her shock announcement last Friday

The Princess of Wales took the extraordinary step of revealing to the world that she has cancer in shock announcement to the nation last Friday

The firebrand MP, who is the leader of his Workers Party of Britain, made a series of Tweets and appearances on his own talk show where he speculated about Kate's whereabouts since her last public appearance at Christmas.

On March 14, he tweeted: 'Princess Kate has been missing for almost 80 days. Thereve been three faked photos and millions of rumours. What are the royals covering up? Is she dead or has she downed tools?'

In the same week Mr Galloway spoke to former Tory politician and notorious conspiracy theorist David Clews, who once claimed the Covid-19 vaccine was 'committing murder', on his chat show.

In the episode Clews claimed there was a 'high risk' that Kate 'may be dead because theyve not provided evidence that shes still alive'.

This came days after the release of a photograph on Kate's official social media channels for Mother's Day, which was later revealed to have been modified using Adobe Photoshop - fuelling wild theories as to her whereabouts.

Then just last week, Mr Galloway posted another Tweet casting doubt on the Princess's whereabouts after a video of her shopping at a farm shop with her husband was published by The Sun.

The MP claimed the person in the video was 'clearly not Kate Middleton' and instead said it was 'a woman 20 years younger' than her.

Kate with her children George, Charlotte and Louis in a photo that was released for Mother's Day this month. It later emerged the photo had been modified on Photoshop

Kate was last seen in public on Christmas Day 2023 with her family attending church at Sandringham before undergoing surgery in January

He added: 'The royals havent confirmed its authenticity. Kate hasnt been seen in public since Christmas Day.'

Just hours later the Princess posted an emotional video of her sitting on a park bench telling the world about her shock diagnosis.

MPs from a number of different parties have since criticised Mr Galloway's actions.

Lib Dem MP Wendy Chamberlain told The Telegraph: 'George Galloways style of politics is a stain on British democracy, and has no place in Parliament.

'Giving oxygen to conspiracy theories like this is the lowest of the low. He should be ashamed of himself.

Former home secretary Priti Patel said the comments were 'grossly insensitive and unkind', adding: 'Such comments are a stark contrast to the compassionate and dutiful manner of HRH our much loved Princess of Wales.'

Labour MP Dame Margaret told the publication: 'These comments are abhorrent.

'Perpetuating such vile conspiracy theories is disgraceful. Their Royal Highnesses are entitled to their privacy at this distressing time.'

Mr Galloway has refused to apologise for his comments since the news of Kate's cancer emerged last week.

George Galloway holds a rally at his Rochdale Headquarters after being declared winner of the Rochdale by-election

George Galloway is sworn in as the new Rochdale MP as he made his return to the House of Commons earlier this month

Yesterday the Twitter account of his talk show The Mother of All Talk Shows posted: 'Kate is alive but unwell. MOATS has been slammed by others for our inquiries in the last few shows about her health. But we were justified in querying the palace secrecy about it.'

During a clip from the show he added: 'We had every right to worry about her as it turns out she had not been seen in public since Christmas day.

'We have the deepest sympathy for Princess Kate...because we like her in the royal family. We were concerned about her then, we are concerned about her now.'

Mr Galloway's victory at last month's by-election - which he won after a hardline pro-Palestine campaign - was the seventh time he has been elected to Parliament.

He has also now represented three different parties in the Commons, having previously been a Labour and Respect Party MP.

MailOnline has contacted for comment George Galloway.
Missing Tennessee teen Sebastian Rogers' mom has defended leaving town while the search for her autistic son is ongoing as he 'could be anywhere'.

Katie Proudfoot revealed she will be leaving Hendersonville to accompany her husband Chris as he goes back to work in Memphis.

However, a frantic search is still ongoing for missing Sebastian, 15, who vanished from the couple's home a month ago.

Proudfoot told broadcaster Nancy Grace admitted she is 'absolutely' concerned about leaving, but that she does not know when she will return.

'My son could be anywhere and we're looking everywhere and anywhere,' she said.

Missing Tennessee teen Sebastian Rogers' mom (right) has defended leaving town while the search for her autistic son is ongoing as he 'could be anywhere'

Katie Proudfoot (bottom right) told broadcaster Nancy Grace that Sebastian, 15, 'could be anywhere'

Sebastian Rogers went missing from his home in Hendersonville a month ago and the United Cajun Navy has now taken over the search

Chris explained the decision had been taken so he could go back to work, although Proudfoot admitted she will not be returning back to work yet.

The couple along with Sebastian's father Seth and an army of volunteers have been combing the area for the teen since he disappeared on February 26.

The Cajun Navy has now taken over the search, employing drones and K9 units in an attempt to trace him.

The non-profit composed of volunteers with boats was formed in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina to help look for survivors and has helped with search and rescue since.

The group recently joined the search for missing University of Missouri student Riley Strain, whose body was pulled from the Cumberland River on Friday.

Police and volunteers have been searching nearby woods blasting Eye of the Tiger, which is Sebastian's favorite song.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said more than 2,000 miles have been searched on foot, and there have been aerial searches with helicopter, drones and a fixed wing plane.

Sebastian was last seen by his mom going up to bed after he had taken out the trash the night before he vanished.

His mother has claimed that she heard a 'noise' coming from his bedroom that night.

'He was doing something in his room because about an hour later, I heard some noise and I was like, "I don't care what you're doing in there but go to sleep,"' Katie said.

Police and volunteers have been searching nearby woods blasting Eye of the Tiger , which is Sebastian's favorite song

His father, Seth, has relentlessly searched for his son and said that he has taken off of work and gotten very little sleep as he does so

'Six o'clock, I went to wake him up for school Monday morning, and that's when he wasn't there.'

'I didn't see him in his room. I looked all over. I ran through the whole house. I looked out all the doors and windows, and I was like hollering his name.'

'I jumped in my car, and I drove around the neighborhood, and I drove over by the school, and ... like, at this point I was like hysterical, and I was crying, I was screaming.'

Officials analyzed home security video from the Hendersonville neighborhood around 3:10 am on the day the teen went missing.

The camera, which was placed at the back of the house, captured two light sources far away and another light source named 'Subject One' closer to the house.

Another light source named 'Subject Two' can be seen briefly appearing in the footage and and moving toward Subject One before being obscured by bushes.

A few seconds later, Subject One can be seen moving out of frame. Subject Two then reappears in the video and follows Subject One.

However, Sebastian's stepfather insisted the video is not what it seems. 'Nothing that is being assumed right now is actually true about that video,' he told YouTube channel Chronicles of Olivia.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said more then 2,000 miles have been searched on foot and there have been aerial searches with helicopter, drones, and a fixed wing plane

Officials analyzed home security video from the Hendersonville neighborhood around 3:10 am on the day the teen went missing. The camera captured two light sources far away and another light source named 'Subject One' closer to the house

#CrimeStories: Nancy Grace asks #KatieProudfoot if she is concerned about leaving town while the search for her son #SebastianRogers is ongoing. Listen to the full interview: https://t.co/kr6uL5DmBg pic.twitter.com/r7a1TiI19i  Nancy Grace (@NancyGrace) March 26, 2024

'Everybody is trying to assume is a flashlight, I hate to say this it's not as much as we would love it to be one it's not.'

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigations said, 'The video has been collected, and from the beginning of the investigation, has been analyzed, and enhanced where possible, by tech experts with the TBI, FBI, and Secret Service. To date, nothing gathered from these video systems has been determined to be significant.'

'We do caution that some surveillance video being shared in the public may have been misinterpreted or misidentified, or not shown in its entirety. It has been determined that it does not hold any evidentiary significance to the investigation.'

Seth said that his son would not get into a stranger's vehicle.

'It's up in the air for me. He would not get into a vehicle unless he knew them,' he told NC5.

The troubled father said he was at his wits' end trying to work out what happened to his son with no leads that make sense.

He said Sebastian was not one to wander off, and due to an experience as a young boy, would never go far without shoes on.
A Nigerian woman is facing up to seven years in prison for writing a damning review of a can of tomato puree, after its maker accused her of damaging its business.

Chioma Okoli, a 39-year-old businesswoman based in Lagos, the country's largest city, is being criminally prosecuted and sued in a civil court after she made negative comments about a product made by Nigerian foodmaker Erisco Foods.

She called on her 18,000 Facebook followers to share their thoughts about Ericso's Nagiko Tomato Mix, after sharing a picture of an opened can of the product and saying it was too sweet.

One commenter said: 'Stop spoiling my brother's product. If [you] don't like it, use another one than bring it to social media or call the customer service.'

Okoli responded: 'Help me advise your brother to stop ki***ing people with his product, yesterday was my first time of using and it's pure sugar.'

Chioma Okoli (pictured) is being criminally prosecuted and sued in a civil court after she made negative comments about a product made by Nigerian foodmaker Erisco Foods

She called on her 18,000 Facebook followers to share their thoughts about Ericso's Nagiko Tomato Mix (pictured)

The businesswoman, who's currently pregnant with her fourth child, was arrested by plainclothes officers from Nigeria's national police in September while she was in church, and told CNN that she was made to stand around in a leaky cell for hours.

'There were no seats, so I stood all through till the next day. My legs were inside the water [that came in from the leaking roof]', she said.

'Sometimes, I squatted to reduce the pressure on my legs. I was thinking about my children who were at home. I was talking to myself. I would think, I would pray, I was messed up,' she added.

Okoli was criminally charged with two separate crimes, the most serious of which could land her behind bars for up to seven years.

She was charged with conspiring with two other individuals with 'the intention of instigating people against Erisco Foods Limited', and may have to go to prison for up to seven years.

Okoli was also charged with 'instigating Erisco Foods Limited, knowing the said information to be false', a crime that could end with her going to prison for three years, having to pay a fine of seven million naira (3,950).

The company's CEO Eric Umeofia has come under fire in Nigeria for his threatening behaviour against Okoli

He revealed her address to the nation during an interview about the ongoing legal battle

Erisco itself is also bringing a civil lawsuit against her, after claiming earlier this year that 'several suppliers' cut ties with the company following her remarks, and is seeking 5 billion naira (2.8 million) in damages.

She has launched two countersuits against the police and Erisco, which her legal team has described as a David vs. Goliath battle, for their treatment of the businesswoman.

The company's CEO Eric Umeofia has come under fire in Nigeria for his threatening behaviour against Okoli.

He revealed her address to the nation during an interview about the ongoing legal battle, which her lawyer, Inhibehe Effiong, said was done 'without regard for the security and safety of Chioma, her husband, and her entire family.'

He also told broadcasters that he would 'rather die than allow someone to tarnish my image I worked 40 years to grow.'

The behaviour of the police and Erisco have come under fire from groups across the world.

Amnesty International said: 'Harassment and intimidation of Chioma Okoli must end now.'
The pilot of the Dali rushed to drop the vessel's anchor and attempted to pull the ship as far left as possible moments before colliding with the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

The 948ft vessel, a Singaporean-flagged container ship, had a 'complete blackout' before Tuesday's collision in Baltimore, according to one industry expert.

Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association, said to CNN that the pilot quickly handed out a string of orders to try to prevent the catastrophe .

These included dropping the anchor and attempting to pull the ship around, as well as calling the dispatch office to shut down traffic to the bridge.

Diamond told the outlet: 'Those were all the appropriate steps, but it happened so quickly and with so little lead time, neither one of those maneuvers were enough.'

The extreme size of the ship and its proximity to the bridge meant there was little hope in avoiding the devastating collision with the bridge.

A view of the Dali cargo vessel which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing it to collapse in Baltimore is seen here on Wednesday

The extreme size of the ship and its proximity to the bridge meant there was little hope in avoiding the devastating collision with the bridge

Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association, seen here, said that the pilot quickly handed out a string of orders to try and prevent the catastrophe

Diamond previously told the New York Times that the pilot in charge had been on the job for over a decade and had an apprentice in training on board with him.

An hour before the collision with the bridge, vessel-tracking data indicate the Dali was guided from its berth by tugboats and then helped towards the bridge.

Eight construction workers that had been working on the bridge at the time fixing potholes were thrown into the river when it collapsed.

Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse timeline 1:24 am - Ship lights flicker for the first time as the vessel loses power 1:25 am - The ship regains power as smoke begins to emerge from it 1:26 am - The vessel again loses power 1:27 am - First call is made to the Coast Guard for assistance, multiple units respond 1:27 am - Vehicles are seen continuing to cross the bridge as well as the construction crew 1:28am - Dali strikes a support pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing a total collapse Advertisement

The Coast Guard announced on Tuesday evening that they would ending their active search for the remaining six, after two of them were rescued by teams.

Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said that due to the period of time in the water 'we do not believe that we are going to find any of these individuals still alive.'

Miguel Luna, 49, had been one of those construction workers and is presumed dead alongside his colleagues.

His wife, Maria del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo 44: 'They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they can't give us information.

'[We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we don't know if they've rescued them yet. We're just waiting to hear any news.'

A second man, Maynor Suazo, 37, a native of Honduras was identified in his homeland as another worker who is missing and presumed to be dead.

Maynor Suazo's brother, Martin, told Honduran television that his brother emigrated in order to 'improve the quality of his life.'

Martin said that he plans to travel to the United States in order to repatriate his brother's remains.

In a separate interview with CNN, Martin confirmed that Suazo is survived by his son, 18, and daughter, five.

Speaking to the outlet, Martin reiterated his brother's desire for a better life in the US and said that he had also started his own maintenance company.

'Maynor Suazo was a guy with warmth, quality of people, entrepreneur with a vision and mission to serve our community,' a family friend wrote in a touching Facebook tribute.

The crew on board the ship were labelled heroes by Maryland Governor Wes Moore on Tuesday afternoon, after issuing a mayday.

The first of the six: Miguel Luna, 49, was the first missing construction worker identified following the collapse

Maynor Suazo, seen here, a native of Honduras was identified in his homeland as another worker who is missing and presumed to be dead

An hour before the collision with the bridge, vessel-tracking data indicate the Dali was guided from its berth by tugboats and then helped towards the bridge

This allowed authorities to limit traffic on the span at the time, according to Governor Moore.

Moore reiterated this on Wednesday when speaking about first responders who appeared at the scene.

He told Good Morning America: 'The first responders are absolute heroes, because the of actions that they did, they saved lives that night.

'Those people who moved quickly, literally changed the entire dynamic of what that night could have been.'

As the vessel neared the bridge, puffs of black smoke could be seen as the lights flickered on and off.

It struck one of the bridge's supports, causing the structure to collapse like a toy, and a section of the span came to rest on the bow.

With the ship barreling toward the bridge at 'a very rapid speed,' authorities had just enough time to stop cars from coming over the bridge, Governor Moore said.

A police dispatcher put out a call just before the collapse saying a ship had lost its steering and asked officers to stop all traffic on the bridge.

One officer who stopped traffic radioed that he was going to drive onto the bridge to alert the construction crew.

But seconds later, a frantic officer said: 'The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever, everybody, the whole bridge just collapsed.'

These first responders are absolute heroes, because the of actions that they did, they saved lives that night  Those people who moved quickly, literally changed the entire dynamic of what that night could have been.  Maryland Gov. Wes Moore on catastrophic bridge collapse. pic.twitter.com/VQI15Yhknt  Good Morning America (@GMA) March 27, 2024

The ship - the Singaporean-flagged Dali - was 20 minutes into its journey when it slammed into a support column on the bridge

An injured person was pictured being loaded into an ambulance after getting taken off the ship following the collapse

The ship crashed into one of the bridge's supports, causing the structure to snap and buckle at several points

On a separate radio channel for maintenance and construction workers, someone said officers were stopping traffic because a ship had lost steering.

There was no follow-up order to evacuate, and 30 seconds later the bridge fell and the channel went silent.

The collapse is sure to create a logistical nightmare along the East Coast for months, if not years, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major hub.

President Joe Biden, announced on Tuesday that the government would pay the full cost to replace the bridge and insisted it was an accident.

Biden vowed to move 'heaven and earth' to get one of the world's busiest ports reopened.

'Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast,' state Sen. Johnny Ray Salling said.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said at a news conference that it was too soon to estimate how long it will take to clear the channel.
First lady Jill Biden is writing a new book about Willow the Cat, giving a behind-the-scenes look at life in the White House via the first feline.

The children's book will be published June 4th and retails for $19.99. It was co-written with award-winning children's author Alyssa Satin Capucilli and illustrated by Kate Berube.

It's unclear if 'Willow the White House Cat' will mention Willow's canine brothers - Major and Commander - who were exiled to Delaware after biting Secret Service agents.

Jill Biden's new children's book will examine life in the White House from the eyes of first feline Willow the Cat

Willow moved into the White House in January 2022

The picture book will explore Willow's adjustment from a Pennsylvania barn cat to living in the most-famous house in America.

The tabby cat joined the Biden family at the White House in January 2022, and is named after Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, which is Jill Biden's home town.

Jill Biden met the cat at a campaign stop in Pennsylvania in 2020 when Willow jumped on the stage of where she was speaking.

Willow often travels with the Bidens to their beach house in Rehoboth, Delaware. And she's known to wake up President Joe Biden by walking on his head.

The children's book will be published in June 2024

The tome will explore the cat's journey to the White House and the friends she meets on the way, according to the publisher Simon & Schuster.

When arriving at the White House 'Willow discovers new rooms to explore and is welcomed by the nice lady she met at Farmer Rick's farm,' according to the book's summary.

The cat will also meet friendly White House staff and find new places to play.

'Willow enjoys discovering the White House and all the special people who make this house a home.'

On most days, Willow can be found in the East Wing, wandering in-and-out of staffers' offices. There are known to be treats on hand for the feline.

The first lady has written two other children's books: Don't Forget, God Bless Our Troops and Joey: The Story of Joe Biden.

Her memoir, Where the Light Enters, was a New York Times bestseller.

'Readers young and old will enjoy this fun glimpse into Willow's life in the White House, and the message that being open to new friendships can sometimes surprise you, is one that is sure to resonate with families everywhere,' Jon Anderson, president and publisher of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, said in a statement.

Willow was the last of the pets the Bidens brought to the White House and the only one still living there.

Willow met the first lady when she was campaigning in Pennsylvania

Commander Biden, a German Shepherd, was sent to live with family friends in Delaware after biting Secret Service agents

Commander, the Bidens' German Shepherd, was sent to family friends in Delaware after biting more than a dozen Secret Service agents.

The Bidens welcomed Commander to the executive residence as a puppy in December 2021.

He was a birthday gift to President Biden from his brother James and sister-in-law Sara.

Another one of the Bidens' German Shepherds, Major, also bit staff and Secret Service agents.

The dog moved out of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in 2021 and re-homed with 'family friends'.
A British ballet dancer died when the pilot of the plane he was on pulled the wrong lever and caused it to crash, an inquest has heard.

Ruan Crighton, from Essex, was killed when the twin-engine propeller aircraft plummeted into a gorge about a mile from the runway while travelling between two airports in Nepal.

The 'extraordinary' 34-year-old and all 71 other people on board suffered fatal injuries in the crash on January 15 last year, which was the deadliest in the Himalayan country since 1992

An inquest into Mr Crighton's death heard that the aircraft came down after one of the pilots mistakenly changed the propeller angle instead of that of the wing flaps on the ATR-72 plane.

In doing so the plane was feathering, the technical term for turning the angle of the propeller blades parallel, something that is normally only done in an emergency when an engine has failed, one expert told the court.

Ruan Crighton was on board the Yeti Airlines ATR 72 flight when it crashed into gorge near the city of Pokhara in Nepal in January 2023

Pictured: Mr Crighton competing in the Helsinki International Ballet competition Final in 2016

They said that this would have resulted in the aircraft - which was seen 'banking sharply' before 'sinking rapidly' towards the ground by witnesses - to have no thrust, North Coroner's Court in Barnet was told on Wednesday.

READ MORE British ballet dancer dies one day after his 34th birthday in Nepal plane crash that is feared to have claimed 72 lives after rescue team said 'the hope of finding anyone alive is nil' Advertisement

The court was told that Mr Crighton had been on the internal flight from the Nepalese capital of Kathmandu to Pokhara International Airport when it plunged to the ground.

The Physiotherapy student - who toured Europe as a professional ballet dancer - had been living in Nepal with his French girlfriend while completing a placement at a spinal injury clinic in Kathmandu, the inquest was told.

The day after his birthday, the 'adored' dancer was taking a 'well-earned trip into the mountains' when the tragedy occurred.

Yeti Airlines Flight 691 was carrying 68 passengers, including 15 foreign nationals, and four crew members.

All of them were killed when it sustained 'a loss of control' on approach to the airport in the tourist town of Pokhara and plunged into the Seti River gorge.

In a pen portrait read to the inquest, Mr Crighton's family said he would be 'missed beyond words'.

'It became clear from an early age that Ruan was gifted', the tribute said of Mr Crighton, who competed in gymnastics at a national level before training as a ballet dancer from the age of 14.

'We are all beyond heartbroken by this terrible tragedy.

'We are so proud of what he achieved.

'He was witty, charming, quick and so generous. He was adored by all who met him.

'We couldn't wait to see him and learn all about his latest adventures.'

Pictured: Rescuers scour the crash site in Pokhara a day after the catastrophic crash which claimed 72 lives

Pictured: Rescue workers search the wreckage after the crash, which was the deadliest air disaster in Nepal since 1993

A rescue team recovers the body of a victim from the site of the plane crash of a Yeti Airlines operated aircraft

A rescue team works to recover the body of a victim from the Seti River gorge after the disaster

The Yeti Airlines aircraft had been operating shuttle flights and was on its third trip of the day when the tragedy occurred, the inquest heard.

READ MORE Final moments of Nepal plane crash captured by passenger on Facebook Live: Chilling footage filmed from inside doomed airliner as it plummets to the ground and bursts into flames killing at least 68 people on board Advertisement

The pilots 'sustained a loss of control' and eyewitnesses at Pokhara International Airport noticed it was flying at a low altitude before it fell from the sky.

Mr Crighton, from Brentwood, Essex, suffered fatal blunt force injuries during the crash, North London area coroner Tony Murphy said.

Mr Murphy said: 'The report into the crash found that the most probable cause was the inadvertent movement of both engine propellers, which led to a subsequent loss of thrust.

'The crew onboard then missed the associated flight deck and engine indications that both propellers had failed.

'Investigators found that this may have been contributed to by human factors, including high workload and stress, which resulted in them missing these signs.'

He added that the report also found there had been 'non-compliance' with procedure.

'The report also notes that there was non-compliance with standard operating procedures, and a lack of sterile cockpit discipline,' Coroner Murphy said.

Mr Murphy told the court: 'Ruan Crichton was 34-years-old when he died on 15 January 2023, onboard Yeti Airlines flight 691, when it crashed in the gorge of the Seti River, ending the lives of all passengers and crew.

'The circumstances of the crash were investigated by the Aviation Safety Network, which produced a report that included a number of recommendations.

'The medical cause of Mr Crighton's death was blunt force injuries to his head, chest, and abdomen.

'He came about his death as a consequence of an aircraft accident.'

Horrifying video showed the plane banking suddenly and sharply to the left as it approached the airport. A loud explosion followed

Footage appears to show the plane flying over houses in the town in the central region of Nepal moments before the crash (pictured left). Right: A passenger films a video as the plane flies over houses as it comes in to land

Family members mourn the death of a victim of the plane crash, which claimed the lives of 72 people

The inquest into Mr Crighton's death was attended by his parents and siblings, who held each other as the verdict was read out.

READ MORE Husband of female co-pilot who was flying doomed Nepal plane was ALSO a pilot who died in a plane crash 17 years earlier: Wife paid for flying lessons with insurance payout she received Advertisement

Coroner Murphy added that Mr Crighton was 'an exceptional person' and 'much missed by his loving family and friends.'

He also thanked the family for coming to the inquest, saying this made proceedings 'much more meaningful'.

Mr Crighton had toured Europe as a professional ballet dancer having studied and worked in London, Finland, and Slovakia.

He studied at Brentwood's Central School of Dance and later graduated from the Central School of Ballet in London in 2008.

Speaking after his tragic death, Hazel Smith, head of ballet at Brentwood, said the school was 'devastated'.

'We have wonderful fond memories of Ruan in class, assisting and inspiring younger pupils, performing and working backstage,' said Ms Smith.

'Central followed Ruan's career, which grew from strength to strength, and we are so totally proud and feel privileged to have known Ruan - to watch him grow into the most wonderful, caring young man.'

After Mr Crichton's 30th birthday, he decided to change careers and enrolled at the European School of Physiotherapy in Amsterdam.

He was completing a placement at a spinal injury clinic in Kathmandu at the time of the tragic plane crash.
Vladimir Putin is rounding up illegal migrants in Russia to fuel his bloody invasion of Ukraine, just days after four Tajik nationals were charged over the Crocus terror attack in Moscow, with migrant groups left fearing bloody retaliation.

Paddy wagons sporting the National Guard insignia arrived at a vast online shopping warehouse in Elektrostal, Moscow today, where thousands of migrant workers were reportedly forced to show their documents.

Checks were carried out by armed and masked Russian guards and military enlistment officers, before at least 40 people were hauled away from the Wildberries warehouse.

More operations in kind are said to be planned, as Putin seeks more cannon fodder for his ongoing war in Ukraine.

It comes just days after the Crocus City Hall atrocity, which led to the deaths of at least 140 people after gunmen stormed a packed concert venue in the capital and indiscriminately targeted civilians before setting the building on fire.

A number of men from Tajikistan have since been detained in connection to the attacks, which have been claimed by jihadist group Islamic State.

Friday's horror attack has been linked to a rise in tensions, with the BBC today reporting an increase in beatings and racism aimed at Central Asian migrants - and the embassy of Tajikistan in Russia warning citizens not to leave their homes unless necessary.

Vehicles emblazoned with Rosgvardiya (Rosguard, the National Police) were seen outside the warehouse in Moscow as officials rounded up illegal migrants, some destined for Ukraine

Critics fear the atrocity in Moscow last week is already leading to discriminatory behaviour towards migrants living in Russia

Some of the migrants detained today will reportedly face the choice of jail or expulsion - or fighting in Ukraine for Russia.

Migrants who have been granted Russian citizenship also express fears they may be called up.

'They check who is on the side of the military, and who is evading,' one said. 'Those who evade can be taken away against their will.'

'Whoever resists is beaten with sticks by the riot police,' said another worker.

A further 38 employees of the warehouse will undergo additional checks with law enforcement to 'clarify' information gathered already, the Wildberries company told state-owned news agency RIA.

It came a day after Putin spoke on the urgency of bringing the 'migration sphere ... under control' at a meeting with the board of the Prosecutor General's Office, RIA noted.

Putin reportedly ordered that measures be handled 'professionally and competently' to 'facilitate the adoption of legal, informed and fair decisions'.

Still, critics fear the atrocity in Moscow last week is already leading to discriminatory behaviour towards migrants living in Russia.

In Novgorod region, it has been prohibited to hire foreign workers in the transport sector.

State Duma deputy Dmitry Gusev has also called for a complete 'audit' of all labour migrants living in the country - as well as those who have recently received Russian citizenship.

In Moscow, a 29-year-old woman from Yakutia was surrounded by a hostile mob on the metro and subjected to vile racist abuse.

'Get the **** out of here,' she was told - even though she is a Russian citizen.

'Russia for Russians, Moscow for Muscovites!

'Africa for blacks, cesspit for Caucasians! Hail Tesak!'

Russian President Vladimir Putin grimaces during an annual expanded Prosecutor General's Office meeting, March 26,2024, in Moscow, Russia

Checks were carried out by armed and masked Russian guards and military enlistment officers, before at least 40 people were hauled away from the Wildberries warehouse

Critics fear the atrocity in Moscow last week is already leading to discriminatory behaviour towards migrants living in Russia

The group reportedly ally with neo-Nazi Maxim Martsinkevich, nicknamed Tesak, meaning Machete, who died from 'asphyxia' in a Russian jail in 2020.

The scared woman said: 'It was 6.30 pm. I was waiting for the train Very young guyscame up to me.

'One of them, the most active one, took a metal bat out of his jacket and showed me.

'They surrounded me and began to humiliate me They called me names from the platform based on my nationality and appearance.'

She said no-one came to her aid.

Two of those threatening her were detained today and face questioning.

On Telegram, migrants from Tajikistan have shared messages expressing fears the community in Russia will suffer for the Crocus attack, as reported by the BBC.

Sharing their concern over retributive attacks, one said: 'Please, God, let [the attackers] be Ukrainian instead.'

Russia's Federal Security Service, or the FSB, said it had arrested 11 people the day after the attack, including four suspected gunmen.

Moscow's Basmanny District Court identified the four suspects behind the attack as Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, 32; Saidakrami Rachabalizoda, 30; Shamsidin Fariduni, 25; and Mukhammadsobir Faizov, 19.

The four men, identified as Tajik nationals, appeared in a Moscow court on Sunday on terrorism charges and showed signs of severe beatings.

One appeared to be barely conscious during the hearing.

The men were charged with committing a group terrorist attack resulting in the death of others. The offence carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

They were all ordered to be held in pre-trial custody until May 22.

Mirzoyev and Rachabalizoda admitted guilt after being charged, according to AP, citing court officials.

A view of the burned Crocus City Hall concert venue following a terrorist attack, March 25

So far, 140 people have died and the death toll is expected to rise

The terrorists who carried out the attack have all been detained and charged with terrorism

All four of them have been beaten and tortured by Russian security forces

While Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack, President Vladimir Putin has said the four men were arrested while trying to flee to Ukraine.

Kyiv denies any connection to the attack.

Putin has made no reference to ISIS' claims.

US intelligence also said after the attack it had information confirming ISIS was responsible for the attack.

Yesterday, head of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) Alexander Bortnikov bizarrely pinned blame on the United States, Britain and Ukraine.

Speaking after the meeting with the board of the Prosecutor General's Office, he was asked whether the US, Britain and Ukraine were behind the terrorist attack, according to Russian news agency TASS.

'We believe that this is true. In any case, we are now talking about the factual information we have. This is general information, but they have a long record of this sort.'

'What is [Ukraine] expected to do to demonstrate its capability? It is expected to carry out sabotage and terrorist acts in the rear,' he continued.

'This is what both the chiefs of Ukraine's special services and the British special services are aiming at. US special services have repeatedly mentioned this, too.'

The Crocus Concert Hall was attacked by armed gunmen on March 22, when terrorists opened fire on civilians and set the auditorium on fire in Russia's deadliest attack in 20 years.

According to the latest data, 140 people have been confirmed dead as a result of the attack, the most recent dying in hospital today.

A total of 80 people injured in the attack remain hospitalized, the official added, and 205 others have sought outpatient medical assistance.

The Moscow Times reported today as many as 360 had been injured in the attack.

Three days before the attack, Putin denounced the U.S. Embassy's March 7 notice urging Americans to avoid crowds in Moscow, including concerts, calling it an attempt to frighten Russians and 'blackmail' the Kremlin ahead of the presidential election.

After Britain echoed the notice, Kremlin mouthpieces accused both of 'complicity' if terrorists did hit Moscow.

A view shows the burning Crocus City Hall concert hall following the shooting incident in Krasnogorsk, outside Moscow, on March 22, 2024

ISIS' news agency Amaq released sickening a 90-second selfie video of the attack that is too graphic for MailOnline to share

The news of a terror warning on March 7 came only hours after the FSB claimed to have thwarted an ISIS plot to slaughter Jews in a Moscow synagogue.

It was unclear whether the events are linked.

According to the FSB, a large cache of weapons and bomb parts were found during a raid on an Islamic State cell in Kaluga, southwest of the capital.

Russian state media reported militants had been gearing up to shoot Jewish worshippers at a synagogue in the capital before security officials stormed the premises and gunned them down.

'While being arrested, the terrorists put up armed resistance to the Russian FSB officers, and as a result were neutralised by return fire,' the Russian state-owned TASS news agency quoted the security service as saying in a statement.
A racist thug fighting as a mercenary for Russia in Ukraine has been disowned by his own family, MailOnline can reveal.

Aiden Minnis has been pictured standing in front of a Russian flag alongside another British mercenary who are the first British soldiers known to be fighting against Ukraine.

The 37-year-old, a former member of the far-right National Front with a conviction for a racist attack, has been disowned by his Wiltshire-based family.

A family member said his mum Tina, from Chippenham, Wiltshire, was not even aware the 37 year old was even fighting on the front line.

'She has nothing to do with him, she has disowned him and they do not speak,' said the family friend.

'I don't think she will ever want to talk about him. She wants nothing to do with him and they have not spoken or had contact for years.'

Aiden Minnis is a former National Front member and convicted thug from Chippenham, who calls himself a 'Z Patriot'

Minnis's VK page shows him wearing Russian uniforms (left hand side of the Irish flag) with a Donetsk insignia

Minnis (right) is a former drug addict with a long criminal record who labelled Putin as 'still the greatest politician on earth'

Alongside Ben Stimson, Minnis is one of two Brits known to be fighting in Ukraine for Vladimir Putin's Russian forces (pictured: Putin)

Relatives said his mother at home in Chippenham (file picture, above) did not know he was away fighting for Russia

Ben Stimson, who had previously been jailed for joining pro-Russian militia forces in 2015, is currently battling Ukrainian soldiers with the Pyatnashka brigade in the Donetsk region

The friend added: 'I don't believe she was even aware he was away fighting. This is all news to her.'

Minnis and his fellow mercenary Ben Stimson, 48, have been called traitors for signing up to fight alongside Putin's regular troops. In a social media post he describes himself as a 'sapper' in the Russian army and praised Putin.

Minnis also calls himself a 'Z Patriot' and social media posts show him dressed in army fatigues.

Both men face arrest when they return to the UK.

The ex-drug addict has a lengthy criminal record and was kicked out of the family terraced home in his early 20s due to his violent behaviour.

A neighbour of his father Derek from Calne, Wilts, said:' We have not seen him for years. I know Derek and his wife divorced some time ago, and we never saw Aiden round here much.

'I have read what he is doing and fighting for Russia. He should be held accountable and put on trial as a traitor.

'There are lots of military bases around here, and they would shocked that a British man can fight for Putin.'

Minnis had a long record of arrests for violence when he appeared before Swindon Crown Court in December 2008 where he was jailed for four years after launching an unprovoked racist attack on Darren McMillan.

McMillan was smashed over the head with a bottle of port having had racist insults hurled at him as he attempted to walk away from the violent thug in the early hours of the morning.

Prosecutor Claire Marlow told the court how the race attack left his victim needing nine staples in a head wound.

She said he had been out in Chippenham and Bath and was walking home at 3am when he noticed two men walking towards him and heard them starting to shout racial abuse.

Stimson was jailed for terror offences after he went to the conflict zone in the Donbass region in 2015 for four months and assisted the anti-government militia in Ukraine, the year after Russia annexed Crimea

Stimson has posted a number of pictures and videos online since he fled to Donetsk in February this year, including this picture of him dressed in military gear

Stimson posted his first picture from Donetsk onto Russian social network channel VK on March 14. In this one he appears to be holding a deadly 40mm grenade launcher round

He also shared footage of frontline soldiers walking past two dead bodies and land mines in a muddy field, before they dig up a hand grenade

'At first he was not bothered but as they got closer he took out his mobile phone and started to call the police,' she said.

'He recalls being on the phone to the operator when he heard one say "Yeah, you get help" and use more racial abuse.

'As he went along he felt himself being stuck to the back of the head by something hard. He fell to the ground still connected to the operator.'

A court report from 2008 revealed the man who was with Minnis called the police to tell them how he had seen him strike the victim with a bottle of port he had been drinking from.

Two months after the assault Minnis robbed a man of his wallet and attempted to rob another, punching him in the face.

He was also arrested months later for assaulting a homeless man.

Minnis pleaded guilty to robbery, attempted robbery, common assault and unlawful wounding and was jailed for four years and three months.

The court heard he had a long history of offending, most of which involved violence, including a racially aggravated public order offence.
She died Tuesday after lying in an induced coma for days

Doctors found that she had experienced a stroke and had bleeding in her brain

Four-year-old Maisie was hospitalized after coming down with a virus that has symptoms similar to the flu

An Ohio preschooler has been taken off life support just days after falling ill with a virus initially thought to be the common cold.

Four-year-old Maisie was taken to an urgent care after she came down with a stuffy nose and cough last week.

When she grew lethargic on Saturday, her parents rushed her to a local emergency room before she was admitted to Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital in Cleveland.

There, she was placed in a medically induced coma. Doctors discovered bleeding in her brain and determined that she'd suffered a stroke.

Just two days after arriving at the hospital, Maisie was pronounced dead.

According to her uncle, Michael Brigadier, the four-year-old had come down with the human metapneumovirus, an RNA virus that commonly presents like the cold or flu.

Four-year-old Maisie was taken off life support Tuesday, days after she was admitted to the hospital with flu-like symptoms

According to her uncle, Maisie had been infected with the human metapneumovirus, an RNA virus that presents similarly to the common cold

Within days of being admitted, doctors realized that she had experienced a stroke and had swelling on the right side of her brain

Bragadier, the brother of Maisie's mother, Christin, organized a GoFundMe on behalf of the family to help cover basic costs like gas and food.

'I wish I could deliver a happy ending to this story,' he wrote on March 26, hours after Maisie's death. 'I wish I knew the right words to say to ease my loved ones' pains and all those who were touched by Maisie.

'Around 11 am today Maisie passed away. Typing these words hours after are still so surreal. I'm in disbelief that this could happen to such a sweet family.'

He described his niece as 'caring, smart, fun and loving,' adding that she 'exhibited the best traits you could ask for out of a person.'

Christin Brigadier posted an update to Facebook on March 24 saying Maisie's condition was deteriorating.

'Her kidneys are not working well, but it's not the major concern right now. Nothing is really working well,' she wrote.

Christin explained that clear fluid was leaking from her daughter's nose and mouth, and her body was swelling.

'She has a spot on her brain scan that could have been a stroke or brain bleeding. They took her off some sedation and paralytics to see if she could move her arms/legs to rule out things but it hasnt worked,' she wrote.

A 'heart problem' arose amid her treatment, so Maisie underwent a procedure to relieve pressure in one of her ventricles.

She was initially taken to a local urgent care, but after she grew lethargic, Maisie was admitted to a children's hospital in Cleveland

She was placed in an induced coma. What followed were a series of procedures and surgeries as doctors scrambled to save her life

The preschooler was supposed to undergo kidney dialysis, but her condition worsened and things rapidly spun out of control, according to her mother

'Her kidneys are not working well, but it's not the major concern right now. Nothing is really working well,' mother Christin Brigadier wrote

Maisie's mother and father, Patric Schmidt, announced Tuesday that their little girl had passed away

On Monday, Christin posted another update after learning that her daughter had experienced a stroke on the right side of her brain.

'They will be going in, removing her skull on the right side, releasing the pressure and eventually get her back together,' she wrote. 'With how sick Maisie is she could pass away during surgery.'

She explained that Maisie was supposed to be put on kidney dialysis, but 'things just started to spin out of control.'

Christin and Maisie's father, Patric Schmidt, announced Tuesday afternoon that she had been taken off life support.

'There was simply nothing more that could be done,' the heartbroken parents wrote in a statement to 19 News.

Brigadier vowed to 'focus on only the positive things in life' in memory of his beloved niece.

'To cherish every moment I get to spend with those I love. To love deeper and be more forgiving. I think those are all things we can learn from Maisie,' he said.

'There's so many times where we all just think of how life isn't fair. Maybe it's just because we're overlooking all the amazing things we have been given and take for granted. I am so proud to be your uncle, Maisie, and I'll never forget what I have learned from you.'

Children, elderly people and those with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible to human metapneumovirus.

It is unclear how the disease connects to the brain bleed Maisie experienced, but HMPV can cause upper and lower respiratory disease in those it infects.

Symptoms include cough, fever, congestion and shortness of breath, but clinical symptoms may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia.

There is currently no antiviral treatment, nor is there a vaccine.
The 'killer' Utah grief author who allegedly poisoned her husband with a fentanyl-laced cocktail first tried to kill him with a poison-laced sandwich a month before, court documents claim.

Kouri Richins, 33, from Kama in Utah, has been accused of poisoning her husband, Eric Richins, 39, by serving him a fentanyl-laced Moscow mule on March 3, 2022.

New documents filed on Monday claimed that it wasn't Kouri's first attempt at trying to kill her late husband.

Prosecutors have alleged that a sandwich that she got for him on Valentine's Day was left with a note in the front seat of his truck.

She purchased the sandwich from a local diner in town, and in the same week, witnesses said she bought several dozen fentanyl pills.

Two of Eric's friends said that they remembered that he called them that same day, after he ate the sandwich, and told them, 'I think my wife tried to kill me,' according to witness testimony.

Kouri Richins, 33, allegedly first tried to kill her late husband, Eric Richins,39, with a poison-laced sandwich a month before, court documents revealed

Kouri, from Kama in Utah, has been accused of poisoning Eric by serving him a fentanyl-laced Moscow mule on March 3, 2022

The legal documents said that prior to making that concerning phone call, Eric had rushed to inject himself with his son's EpiPen and downed a bottle of Benadryl after he reacted to the drugs.

When he woke up from a deep sleep, he called his friends and told them he thought he was going to die and that it was his wife's fault, documents said.

A housekeeper, who is also the state's star witness, told police that she had sold drugs to Kouri just a couple days before the alleged first poisoning attempt.

According to the latest documents, Kouri allegedly told the housekeeper that she needed stronger drugs because the initial pills provided weren't strong enough.

A month after that attempt, Kouri called 911 and reported that she found Eric 'cold to the touch' at the foot of their bed, according to the police report.

Medical examiners later found that her husband had five times the lethal dose of fentanyl in his system.

Summit County Chief Prosecutor, Patricia Cassell, has alleged that the Kouri slipped the obscene amount of drugs into Eric's cocktail that night, even though the wife's family said his death was accidental.

Kouri's brother Erica said that 'Eric loved to party, he loved to have a good time.'

'The simplest answer is often the correct one, it was most likely an accidental overdose.'

'One or two pills might be accidental. Twenty - or five times the lethal dose - is not accidental. That is someone who wants Eric dead,' Cassell said.

One day after his death, affidavits for search warrants show that Kouri signed the closing papers on the couple's $2 million property and invited friends for a party where she was drinking and celebrating.

Shortly after her husband's death, the mother-of-three self-published a children's book titled 'Are You With Me?' about an angel wing-clad deceased father watching over his sons.

Two of Eric's friends said that they remembered that he called them that same day, after he ate the sandwich, and told them 'I think my wife tried to kill me,' according to witness testimony

Richins and her husband had been arguing about her plans to purchase and flip a 10-acre $2 million home, pictured here, in the days before he was found dead

Investigators have uncovered evidence suggesting that Richins' mother Lisa Darden, 64, (pictured) may have played a role in Eric Richins' death

She promoted it on television and radio, describing the book as a way to help children grieve the loss of a loved one.

She said in an interview that she was motivated to write the book after searching Amazon and Barnes and Noble and finding 'nothing' to help them 'cope'.

Richins and her husband had previously been arguing about her plans to purchase and flip a 10-acre $2 million home in the days before he was found dead at their Utah home last March, according to court documents.

Prosecutors say Eric found out that his wife had taken out a $250,000 home equity line of credit and spent it, withdrawn $100,000 from his bank accounts, and spent more than $30,000 on his credit cards.

Kouri Richins also stole about $134,000 from her husband's business meant for tax payments, the documents state.

The documents state that she agreed to repay her husband back when he confronted her about the missing money.

Prosecutors alleged that Kouri purchased four different life insurance policies, which totaled over $1.9million between 2015 and 2017.

In the new legal fillings, it was revealed that Kouri had a negative bank account balance, owned lenders more than $1.8 million and was being sued by a creditor.

She was slapped with two new charges of mortgage fraud and insurance fraud for allegedly forging loan applications and fraudulently claiming insurance benefits after Eric's death.

On the same night Eric died, Kouri's mother, Lisa Darden, and her were celebrating her recent closure on the mansion. Kouri owned a real estate company and her husband owned a successful masonry business.

Utah cops recently discovered that Darden might have been involved in orchestrating the death of her son-in-law with Kouri.

Investigators think that the wife, who has since been charged with aggravated murder and drug possession, got the idea to poison Eric from her mother.

In May 2023, a Summit County Sheriff's Office detective submitted a search warrant affidavit based on a suspicion that Darden, 64, was 'involved in planning and orchestrating Eric's death,' based on her previous involvement with a mysterious death in 2006.

'In investigating Kouri Richins' associates, it was discovered that in 2006, Richins' mother, Lisa Darden was living with an adult female with whom she was having a romantic relationship,' the detective wrote in the affidavit.'

Shortly after her husband's death, the mother of three self-published a children's book titled 'Are You with Me?' about an angel wing-clad deceased father watching over his sons

Kouri has been charged with aggravated murder and drug possession and after the new legal documents came out on Monday, she was slapped with two new charges of mortgage fraud and insurance fraud for allegedly forging loan applications and fraudulently claiming insurance benefits

'In April of that year, her romantic partner died unexpectedly.'

The partner was Gertrude Lee Moore, who died at the age of 49 'suddenly' on April 30, 2006. In Moore's obituary, Darden was described as 'her best friend.'

An autopsy revealed that Moore's 'immediate cause of death was a drug poisoning from an overdose of oxycodone,' Fox News reported.

'Further investigation showed that Lisa Darden had been named as the beneficiary of her partner's estate a short time before her death,' the detective continued.'

'The female did have current prescriptions for oxycodone and reportedly struggled with abusing her meds. She, however, was not in a state of recovery from addiction at the time of her death.'

Skye Lazaro, the attorney representing Kouri, has denied the detective's suggestion and said Darden's partner was a victim of the national opioid crisis.

'Summit County is well aware that opioid addiction and fentanyl overdose is a rampant problem throughout the country. According to the CDC, 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl,' Lazaro said in a statement to Fox.

No charges have been filed against Darden.

Prior to his death in March of 2022, Eric had changed his will to make his sister the sole beneficiary of his life insurance policy and was even thinking of getting a divorce from Kouri, according to his family.

Family attorney and spokesperson Greg Skordas previously told DailyMail.com that Eric was afraid Kouri was trying to kill him after two separate instances in which he became violently ill after drinking or eating with his wife.

His family has insisted that Kouri is the one responsible for his sudden death.
Ronna McDaniel is expecting to be fully paid out for her contract with NBC News despite being dropped just four days after it was announced she was joining the network as a political contributor.

The ex-RNC chair's contract was for $300,000 a year for two years, Politico reported.

With her lone appearance on NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday that lasted less than 20 minutes, that amounts to more than $30,000 a minute or $500 a second.

McDaniel has not spoken publicly about her short-lived tenure since the announcement on Tuesday evening from NBC that she was being dropped.

But Politico reports that she is lawyering up and spoke with Bryan Freedman on Tuesday about her legal options even beyond recouping the money from her original contract.

He is the lawyer who represented Megyn Kelly in her split with the network as well as other anchors who have been axed including Chris Cuomo, Don Lemon and Tucker Carlson.

Ronna McDaniel appeared on Meet the Press on Sunday after it was announced she had been hired by NBC as a political contributor. She was dropped by the network just days after joining is after her hiring outraged employees

NBC officially dropped McDaniel on Tuesday only four days after announcing she was joining the network as a political contributor. The announcement of her hiring on Friday sparked immediate backlash from on-air talent across the network.

In a statement Tuesday evening, NBCUniversal chairman Cesar Conde said: 'After listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor.'

While NBC employees were outraged by her being hired, conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, who is a friend of McDaniel, said he has never seen anything 'this brutal' of her ousting.

'Ronna is going to sue everyone who defamed her for breach of contraction, for intentional inflection of mental distress,' Hewitt said during an appearance on Fox News.

'They're going to sue for the destruction of her business opportunities that come from being on TV,' he added.

'I think they made a terrible decision and they allowed the MSNBC bleed to take over their network.'

He claimed the 'cult has taken over the news division.'

Politico reported she is exploring potential defamation and hostile work environment claims after some of the biggest names on NBC slammed her on air.

Radio host Hugh Hewitt slammed NBC for dropping McDaniel on Fox News and said she was going to sue for infliction of mental distress.

McDaniel served as RNC chair while Trump was president. She stepped down from that job amid pressure from Trump on March 8

McDaniel served as RNC chair from 2017 until earlier this month when she stepped down amid pressure from Trump who wanted loyalist Michael Whatley and his daughter-in-law Lara Trump to lead the party.

During her time as RNC chair she promoted Trump's false election fraud claims. It was one of the reasons her hiring at NBC sparked backlash from network employees.

NBC has hired a series of other political operatives for on-air hosting and contributor gigs over the years.

Among them are Jen Psaki who served as White House press secretary in the Biden administration and Symone Sanders who was spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris.

On-air employees of the network said they were outraged over McDaniel's hiring not because she was a Republican but become of her actions.

Former Meet the Press Moderator Chuck Todd slammed the network right after McDaniel's lone Meet the Press interview as an employee.

He said there were a lot of journalists uncomfortable with her being hired by the network because their professional dealings with the RNC over the past six years 'have been met with gaslighting, have been met with character assassination.'
A pedestrian stops to photograph a movie prop staged along Wacker Drive during the filming of the movie "Transformers 3" on July 16, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. Scott Olson/Getty Images Zachary H. Cohle, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Economics at Saginaw State Valley University. SVSU Jordin Sparks attends a special screening of "Sparkle" at the Emagine Royal Oak theater on August 5, 2012 in Royal Oak, Michigan. Monica Morgan/WireImage (L-R) Miguel Pimentel, Joseph David-Jones, Algee Smith, Tyler James Williams, John Boyega, Nathan Davis Jr, Will Poulter, Malcolm David Kelley, Ben O'Toole, Peyton Smith, Laz Alonso, and Hannah Murray, arrive at the premiere for "Detroit" at the Fox Theater on July 25, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images

From big budget hits like Transformers and Scream 4 to smaller indie gems such as 8 Mile and Gran Torino, Michigan has hosted several movie shoots.

While Detroit has a long history of allowing Hollywood to film in the state, the late 2000s saw a swell of productions relocate to various locations throughout the Great Lake State.

This expansion of Hollywood onto our doorstep can be best attributed to the incentive program the state of Michigan passed in 2008.

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A thriving movie industry offers support to the state in the form of jobs, tax revenue, more money circulating through the local businesses, and the building of industry know-how in our workers. But movie sets stop appearing in the 2010s.

A scathing internal report by state economists showed that the state was essentially spending $37.5 million dollars to gain $21.1 million for the states economy and $3.7 million in tax revenue. In other words, the cost of the subsidies outweighed the benefit the state was seeing from bringing in the film industry.

Primarily, about half of the spending created by the film industry was transferred out of state. The reallocation of state funds towards the film industry also decreased state spending in other areas of the economy.

Overall, it seemed like the film industry was just not helping Michigan.

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Now, state legislators have introduced renewed support for multimedia projects, like films, commercials, and music videos, with the Multimedia Jobs Act. This time, state government has designed the subsidies in such a way to keep more of the revenue generated in the state itself. The renewed push towards subsidies comes at a time when 34 other states have functioning government programs to attract film studios.

There are detractors who say more immediate needs require tax funds; however, the bill has bipartisan support already.

Despite the optimism, there is mounting evidence that film subsidies fail to ever bring benefits that outweigh costs in the modern US.

For example, the Georgia Department of Auditors recently found that the state recoups on 20 cents for every dollar spent on film subsidies.

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Economists tend to be great at estimating benefits and costs of policies, but our tools are limited. At best, we are right about 60% of time with the current statistical techniques available to our field. Economists also struggle to measure delayed benefits.

In this instance, there are two major benefits that previous economists have not measured when determining the viability of film subsidies  growing our tourism prospects and attracting news jobs.

Tourism in Michigan generated $48.5 billion in 2022. In other words, tourism accounted for roughly one tenth of our total economic activity. Michigan only accounts for 1.1% of the total market share of visitors to US states. Florida, New York, and California each dwarf our tourism income per year.

While having movies filmed in our towns and cities wont necessarily bring tourism, the film industry can bolster our growing tourist industry. Michigan has several film festivals, such as Hells Half Mile and the Lake Michigan Film Festival. By having outside film makers do work in the state, our local film makers will improve by gaining first-hand knowledge of the techniques used by titans in the film industry.

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Film subsidies could help the state in another way that previous economists have not accounted for. By attracting more industry to the state, Michigan hopes to keep talented workers to prevent brain drain.

On average, about 9,000 college educated adults leave the state each year. Based on an opinion poll from Glengariff, 55% of voters between 18 and 29 believe they will be living in the state in a decade.

By attracting new firms to Michigan, the state hopes to both create employment opportunities while increasing the brand value of the state.

Our best and brightest might be less willing to move if Scream 7 was shooting down the block. We are trying to make Michigan cool with this initiative.

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With so many states pushing film subsidy programs, it is difficult to imagine that all other states do not somehow benefit from attracting film studios.

Michigan has a growing tourism industry that could soon dominate the region. The film industry could support that growth.

Likewise, we have a problem with talented workers leaving the state. This law could be a way of helping address that issue.

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If Michigan can keep more of generated revenue from film shoots in the state, then this new law may be a great boom to the state.
The Met Police have reopened an investigation after they were branded an 'absolute joke' when they gave up trying to find a thief who stole from Carrie Johnson's friend - despite it being fitted with a tracker.

Nimco Ali, who is godmother to one of Boris and Carrie Johnson's children, blamed 'Sadiq Khan's London' after the Metropolitan Police dropped the investigation.

The former independent government adviser, who has not shared details of the apparent theft, claimed she located the item with an Apple AirTag tracking device and that she had CCTV of the man who stole from her.

Despite claiming to have shared the tracking information with police, Ms Ali received a text from the police on Tuesday morning that said: 'Unfortunately, no suspects have been identified and all lines of enquiry have been exhausted.'

The Met Police have since confirmed they will reopen the case and make contact with Ms Ali - saying that they could not continue with the investigation at the time because there were 'challenges in arranging the sharing of the CCTV footage'.

But the social activist has since hit back - claiming the Met 'never called me back' and accusing them of lying. She added: 'You guys are a hot mess.'

Nimco Ali (pictured) has blamed 'Sadiq Khan's London' after the Metropolitan Police dropped an investigation into a stolen item that was fitted with a tracker

Ms Ali lived with the Johnsons at Downing Street during the lockdown in December 2020 to help care for their eldest son, Wilfred, who is also her godson. Pictured: Ms Ali with Carrie Johnson

A spokesperson for the Met Police said: 'We are aware of a post on social media about the closure of an investigation following an allegation of theft which was reported to the police.

'This follows an incident where a set of Airpods were reported stolen from a shop in Regents Park Road, NW1 on the morning of 15 January.

'During the course of the investigation, a number of enquiries were carried out by the officers, including speaking to the shop in question in order to retrieve CCTV footage. There were challenges in arranging the sharing of the CCTV footage with officers which led to the case being closed.

'Device tracking can often be helpful for officers when tracking down stolen items. However, the technology does have limitations and is not always accurate. The pinging of a device to a location on its own does not give officers the powers to enter an address for an offence of this level.

'Having reviewed the crime report, this case has been reopened and we will make contact with the victim to establish if there are further lines of enquiry that can be pursued.'

Ms Ali said she was 'not a fan' of how the force was run by Mr Khan after her case was dropped.

The social activist said she was 'not a fan' of how the force was run by Mr Khan (pictured) after her case was dropped

She told The Telegraph: 'It's something that is happening all the time with the Met. They didn't even have a suspect. I'm going to speak to them. I'm not a fan of Sadiq Khan's London.'

Mr Khan has been accused of failing Londoners after it emerged in January that more than 1,000 people have been killed since he became mayor. The capital has also gained a reputation as 'Lawless London' due to frequent brawls and robberies.

Ms Ali also posted a screenshot of the message that she was sent by the Met on Twitter and wrote: 'The Met Police is an absolute joke. You have the man who took my stuff on CCTV.

'I offered to give the officer the address that my AirTag was showing up at. You never called me back even after I called countless times with the information. And now you send me this.'

The Met Police has been contacted for comment.

Ms Ali advised Mr Johnson's government on tackling violence against women and girls between 2020 and 2022.

She lived with the Johnsons at Downing Street during the lockdown in December 2020 to help care for their eldest son, Wilfred, who is also her godson.

Ms Ali was pictured carrying Wilfred out of the Number 10 gates to meet his newborn sister Romy in 2021.

Ms Ali also posted a screenshot of the message that she was sent by the Met on Twitter and wrote: 'The Met Police is an absolute joke'

She stepped down from her role in December 2022 - three months after Mr Johnson resigned as PM - because she did not want to continue under the then Home Secretary Suella Braverman.

At the time, she said: 'I think the fair upsum is that I wouldn't feel comfortable.

'I think I can definitely say that I wouldn't feel comfortable in serving under Suella or actually saying that she is somebody that we probably have the same feminist ideals as.'

She added: 'I'm just saying that Suella and I are on completely different planets when it comes to the rights of women and girls, and also the way that we talk about ethnic minorities, and specifically people like me who are from a refugee background.'

Ms Ali is the current CEO of The Five Foundation and a prominent campaigner against female genital mutilation (FGM).

She was awarded an OBE in 2019 in recognition for her campaigning against FGM and gender inequality.

The Met Police has been contacted for further comment.
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A Thames Water sewage treatment plant was today pictured fouling another waterway for nearly six hours - on the same day a bombshell report revealed water companies pumped record amounts of raw sewage into British rivers and seas.

Water companies in England discharged sewage into waterways for 3.61million hours last year, equivalent to more than 450 years, and 105 per cent increase from 2022, according to Environment Agency data published this morning.

The figures are at their highest ever levels, although officials caution that comparisons over the years are difficult as an increasing number of storm overflows have been fitted with monitors over time, and all now have the technology to record spills.

Photos show sewage flowing into the River Thames at Thames Water-run Crossness sewage treatment works in east London today.

Thames Water data shows that untreated sewage was pumped into the waters for five hours and 45 minutes from 11.30pm yesterday and overnight until 5.15am today, just hours before the shocking data was released.

A Thames water map also reveals the dozens of recent and ongoing sewage overflows in the areas it provides waterworks, including London and much of the home counties.

This comes as a marine biologist revealed this morning that the problem is so bad that every single sea creature they had studied in Langstone Harbour, near Portsmouth, had tested positive for cocaine.

Discharge into the River Thames at Thames Water-run Crossness sewage treatment works in east London today, where sewage was pumped into the waters for nearly six hours overnight into this morning

In this aerial view, discharge is seen flowing into the River Thames at Crossness sewage treatment works in London today

Total hours water companies in England leaked sewage into rivers, lakes and the sea in 2023 shown by the areas they cover

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Marine biologist Professor Alex Ford (pictured on GMB this morning) revealed this morning that the problem is so bad that every single sea creature they had studied in Langstone Harbour, near Portsmouth, had tested positive for cocaine

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Your browser does not support iframes.

Thames Water map shows the dozens of sewage overflows which were ongoing (red) or occured within the last 48 hours (orange) as of around 4pm on Wednesday March 27

Professor Alex Ford, from Portsmouth University, told Good Morning Britain the Southern Water sewage treatment plant at the harbour, which leads into the English Channel, 'takes the waste of half a million people and when it can't cope with it chucks it straight out here'.

He told GMB: 'In the marine life just beneath our feet, we're actually finding they're full of drugs: contraceptive pills, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication.

'Every single marine species that we've looked at so far is full of cocaine.'

He said wildlife was being affected by the drugs in the sewage water, which marine animals are being exposed to all at once. Prof Ford told GMB: 'The drugs affect this wildlife in the same way they do us. If you give a fish contraceptive pill it starts to feminise, if you give crabs antidepressants it changes their behaviour because those drugs were designed to change behaviour.

'If you give them illegal drugs as well it has very much the same effect it has on them as it would do on people as well.'

The number of discharges from the 14,000 storm overflows which are owned by English water companies also soared to 464,056 last year, up 54 per cent per cent from 301,091, meaning that last year was the worst on record for sewage spills.

This is the highest number since current data began in 2016, ahead of the previous peak of 403,375 spills in 2020.

The duration of the sewage spills had more than doubled from 1,754,921 hours hours in 2022, to 3,606,170 hours in 2023, the figures show.

Both the frequency and duration of spills were also up on 2020 levels, which saw comparable amounts of rainfall.

Raw sewage discharges are meant to be released from storm overflows only in exceptional circumstances due to extreme weather such as torrential rain.

But companies have been found to have been using them routinely, even during dry spells, although the water industry is likely blame the figures on heavy rainfall with last year being the sixth wettest on record.

The Government has signalled it is going to clamp down on water firms, as yesterday the Environment Agency announced a new whistleblowing hotline for those who work industry to report 'serious environmental wrongdoing by their water companies'.

Findings made from whistleblower reports can be used in enforcement action against these companies, including unlimited financial penalties and criminal prosecutions.

Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, said: 'We share the public's disgust with sewage pollution and know there's always more that can be done to protect our waterways.

'This new whistleblowing portal allows workers to raise their concerns and we encourage people to come forward, knowing any information will be treated in confidence and with sensitivity.

'The more evidence we have to identify potential criminality, then the more actions we can take to make lasting improvements to our environment.'

Environment Secretary, Steve Barclay, said: 'We have been clear we will not tolerate pollution and water companies need to act quickly to improve their environmental performance. This whistleblowing portal is another measure which will help the regulator gather vital intelligence and hold rule-breakers to account.

'It builds on our recent work to ban inappropriate executive bonuses and plans to quadruple the number of water company inspections by the Environment Agency  ensuring we continue to protect our waterways with more investment, stronger regulation and tougher enforcement action.'

United Utilities dumped the most raw sewage in British waterways out of all water companies last year, with a total 656,014 hours across 97,537 spills, an average of 290 hours per site or 43 per site.

South West Water spilled for 530,737 hours last year after 58,249 overflow incidents. This is an average of 390 hours per storm overflow and 43 per site.

Yorkshire Water was in third with 516,386 hours worth of spillages across 77,761 incidents last year. Severn Trent had 440,446 hours of spillages over 60,253 individual incidents.

The figures also showed there were an average of 33 instances of sewage spills per storm overflow in England last year, up from 23 in 2022.

This is the second highest annual average since data began in 2016, with the highest being 35 spills per overflow in 2019.

Discharge is seen flowing into the River Thames at Crossness sewage treatment works this morning

The River Thames is filled with sewage from the Thames Water Crossness sewage treatment works this morning

Water companies pumped raw sewage into British rivers and seas for a record four million hours last year, more than double than in 2022, new figures have revealed

A general view of the fast flowing and swollen River Ure at Aysgarth Falls, North Yorkshire

Photo issued by River Action of a water sample taken from the River Thames around Hammersmith Bridge in west London where high levels of E. coli were found

According to data revealed by Sky News in 2022, water companies poured raw sewage into rivers and seas for nearly 9.5 million hours in the five-year period between 2016 and 2021.

The new record figures show that nearly half of the sewage discharged over that five year period was pumped into British waterways just last year.

This year every storm overflow has been fitted with an 'EDM' monitor - but even this is unlikely to record the full scale of the increases in sewage spills.

High levels of E.coli in Thames ahead of Oxbridge Boat Race

Chloe Peck of River Action, testing River Thames water around Hammersmith Bridge High levels of E.coli have been found along a stretch of the River Thames that will be used for the historic Oxbridge Boat Race this weekend, researchers said. The bacteria, which can cause serious infections, was discovered during regular testing by River Action and the Fulham Reach Boat Club between February 28 and March 26, using a World Health Organisation-verified E.coli analyser. The 16 tests around Hammersmith Bridge in west London indicated an average of 2,869 E.coli colony forming units (CFU) per 100ml of water. To meet the Environment Agency's inland bathing water quality standards, the level should be below 1,000 CFU per 100ml. River Action said the highest level it recorded was 9,801 CFU per 100ml, meaning it was nearly 10 times higher than levels found in bathing waters graded as 'poor' by Environment Agency standards. The Government advises against bathing in water at this grade, which is the lowest of the four possible categories. The Cambridge rowing team practise in the Thames ahead boat race against Oxford, in London today River Action said the testing locations suggested the source of pollution is from Thames Water discharging sewage directly into the river and its tributaries. This is based on publicly available data which showed that the water company had discharged sewage into the Greater London area of the River Thames for 1,914 hours from the start of 2024 up to March 26. This is equivalent to 79 out of the 85 days. The findings come ahead of the annual Gemini Boat Race between the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge on Saturday. River Action, British Rowing and The Rivers Trust have issued new guidance to rowing clubs across the UK on safety in polluted waters, which has been included in the Gemini Boat Race briefing packs to both universities. Rowers are advised on the importance of covering cuts, grazes and blisters with waterproof dressings, taking care not to swallow river water that splashes close to the mouth, wearing suitable footwear when launching or recovering a boat, and cleaning all equipment thoroughly. River Action chief executive James Wallace said: 'We are in a tragic situation when elite athletes are issued with health guidance ahead of a historic race on the capital's river. 'Our water quality results show what happens after decades of neglect by an unregulated water company, Thames Water.' The organisation said rowers, communities and conservationists are uniting to ask the Government to enforce the law and prosecute polluters. 'Everyone should be able to enjoy our rivers and seas without risking their health,' Mr Wallace said. World champion Imogen Grant, who was also a triple Boat Race winner with Cambridge, said: 'As a rower, the water I row on is my field of play, and the results of the E.coli testing show that rowers are putting their health at risk to do the sport they love. 'Thousands of people rely on our rivers for work and recreation and they are being choked with sewage and pollution. 'More needs to be done to improve our water quality across the country, and testing like this gives us a picture of just how far we have to go.' E.coli, which is found in faeces, can cause a range of conditions, including urinary tract infection, cystitis, intestinal infection and vomiting, with the worst cases leading to life-threatening blood poisoning. A Thames Water spokesman said: 'Taking action to improve the health of rivers is a key focus for us and we want to lead the way with our transparent approach to data. 'We have experienced higher than average long-term rainfall across London and the Thames Valley, with groundwater levels exceptionally high for the time of the year. 'We are working hard to make these discharges unnecessary and have published plans to upgrade over 250 of our sites, including a 100 million upgrade of our Mogden sewage treatment works in south-west London to treat the high volumes of incoming sewage and reduce the need for overflows during wet weather.' Advertisement

Last September, the Office for Environmental Protection said the guidance provided by the Government to regulators might be allowing firms to discharge raw sewage more regularly than 'intended by the law'.

The Government has said it plans to eliminate 40 per cent of raw sewage overflows into rivers by 2040, and recently announced a 180million plan to fast-track action.

In response to the figures, a spokesperson for industry body Water UK said: 'These results are unacceptable and demonstrate exactly why we urgently need regulatory approval to upgrade our system so it can better cope with the weather.

'We have a plan to sort this out by tripling investment which will cut spills by 40% by 2030 - more than double the Government's target.

'We now need the regulator Ofwat to give us the green light so that we can get on with it,' they urged.

The water companies say they want to triple investment to 10billion over the period 2025-2030 to tackle the problem, but they have been criticised for passing this cost onto customers through higher bills.

Ahead of the figures being published this morning, Labour called for an immediate ban on bonuses for bosses of polluting water companies.

There has been rising public concern at the state of England's rivers and seas, with bathers regularly not able to swim at their favourite beaches due to pollution and assessments showing none of the country's rivers are in good overall condition.

Pollution from water companies is - along with farming - a key cause of low water quality in the country's rivers.

Anger has been directed at water company executives being given high salaries and bonuses despite the condition of the country's waterways and coasts.

Shadow environment secretary Steve Reed said water company bosses should not be allowed bonuses for 'this level of failure'.

He said: 'It's absolutely disgusting to see record levels of raw sewage being pumped out into our lakes, rivers and waterways, and a Government standing back and doing absolutely nothing while this continues.'

Under Labour's plan to put water firms in 'special measures', bosses would be banned from 'paying themselves bonuses for overseeing this level of failure'.

'They have awarded themselves 25million since the last general election, every single penny of that should have gone into fixing the broken sewers, not rewarding them for failure.'

Sir Keir Starmer had pledged to nationalise the water companies when he ran for the Labour leadership, a promise the party subsequently ditched, but Mr Reed insisted tougher regulation would be enough to address the problems.

'The very fastest way to tackle this problem is to strengthen regulation and to give the regulator the greater powers they need to crack down on behaviours by the water companies that are allowing this level of pollution to happen.

'The Conservative government has chosen to stand back and do nothing.'

It was reported in June last year that the 'fat cats' at nine water companies were awarded huge pay packages of up to 3.2million per year.

Critics, at the time, slammed the pay packages of the UK's top water bosses as 'excessive' amid concerns around the future of Thames Water - after 14billion debt came to light.

Bosses at nine water companies were paid 13million in just one year, as public outrage over river pollution and ongoing water leaks. The bosses' packages are made up of a base salary, plus benefits and bonuses.

Thames Water's former 2million-a-year chief executive Sarah Bentley announced her shock exit in June after talks of a government bailout.

The Government announced a ban on water company board members and chief executives if a firm has committed serious criminal breaches in February, and said it would come into effect later this year.

The Environment Agency said it is already conducting the largest ever criminal investigation into potentially widespread rule-breaking at thousands of sewage treatment plants.

Environment Agency Director of Water Helen Wakeham said: 'Whilst it is disappointing that water companies have reported an increase in sewage spills in 2023, it is sadly not surprising. We are pleased to see record investment from the water sector, but we know it will take time for this to be reflected in spill data  it is a complex issue that won't be solved overnight.

'No other country has the level of monitoring we do, with 100% of storm overflows in England now fitted with a monitor. We are better placed than ever before to hold water companies accountable  thanks to intelligence from our new whistleblower portal, our plans to expand our specialised workforce, new enforcement powers, increased water company inspections and new tools to inform our enforcement work.'

Water Minister Robbie Moore said: 'I have been clear that sewage pollution in our waters is unacceptable, which is why in just the last few months we announced a consultation to ban water bosses' bonuses when criminal breaches have occurred, quadrupled company inspections next year, fast-tracked 180m investment to cut spills, launched a whistleblowing portal for water company workers to report breaches, and will soon set out our plans to ban wet wipes containing plastic.

'We demanded that 100% of overflows were monitored by the end of last year as part of our drive to improve transparency. Today's data shows water companies must go further and faster to tackle storm overflows and clean up our precious waterways. We will be ensuring the Environment Agency closely scrutinise these findings and take enforcement action where necessary.'

James Wallace, chief executive of campaign group River Action, said: 'The scale of the discharges by water companies is a final indictment of a failing industry.

'Having run amok with billpayers' money for decades, they discharged untreated sewage into rivers and coastal waters more than 3.6 million hours last year from 464,000 spills through storm overflows that are supposed to be only used in extreme weather events.

'That's a 105% increase in the number of hours and a 54% increase on spills on the previous year.

He added: 'Rather than investing in future-proofing their infrastructure, fixing leaky pipes, upgrading wastewater treatment plants, these international businesses have plundered our most precious natural resource, fresh water.'

He called for reform of environmental regulators and for failing water companies to be refinanced and restructured to put people above profits.

The figures are for storm overflows where spill data is available, the Environment Agency said.
Federal prosecutors claim the former Mongolian Prime Minister used embezzled funds from mining contracts to purchase two luxury New York City apartments.

The United States government is seeking forfeiture of two Manhattan apartments they said former Prime Minister Sukhbaatar Batbold purchased for a total of $14 million in 2012 and 2015.

Batbold served as Mongolia's prime minister from 2009 to 2012 and is currently serving in the country's parliament.

Prosecutors claimed the money used to buy the apartments came from a $68 million mining contract awarded to Hong Kong-registered Catrison Limited in 2011 to buy copper concentrates from the Erdenet copper mine in Mongolia.

'Millions of dollars from the mining contracts were then siphoned into foreign bank accounts, transferred through a series of shell companies, and, among other things, directed towards the purchase of the New York City apartments for the benefit of Batbold's family, including his eldest son who used the apartments,' said the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Prosecutors claim the former Mongolian Prime Minister Sukhbaatar Batbold (pictured) used embezzled funds from mining contracts to purchase two luxury New York City apartments

Prosecutors said shell companies controlled by a member of Catrison's board - which Batbold owner - bought an apartment (pictured) at the Park Imperial building on West 56th St. for $3.9 million in 2012

Batbold's son is also listed as a 'co-owner' of an apartment (pictured) in Carlton House on East 61st St., which was bought for $9.9 million in 2015

They claimed Batbold owned Catrison through trusted intermediaries and prior to being awarded that contract, the company had no operational history, no mining expertise, and no financial or logistical infrastructure to execute commodity sales.

'As alleged in the complaint, Sukhbataar Batbold  the former prime minister of Mongolia  abused his position as prime minster to profit from the sale of his country's natural resources,' said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department's Criminal Division.

'He and his family used the proceeds of their corrupt scheme to buy $14 million in high-end real estate in the United States.'

Prosecutors said shell companies controlled by a member of Catrison's board bought an apartment at the Park Imperial building on West 56th St. for $3.9 million in 2012.

According to Zillow, the apartment is a two bedroom, two and a half bathroom residence with views of Central Park and the Hudson River.

It has a master bedroom with a walk-in closet and marble en-suite bathroom, herringbone hardwood floors throughout and in-unit washer and dryer.

According to Zillow, the Park Imperial apartment (pictured) is a two bedroom, two and a half bathroom residence with views of Central Park and the Hudson River

The master bedroom at the Park Imperial (pictured) includes a walk-in closet and a marble en-suite bath with double vanity, glass enclosed shower stall and a soaking tub

According to Zillow, the Carlton House apartment (pictured) is a two bedroom, two and a half bathroom residence with views of Central Park and the Hudson River

Batbold's son used the West 56th St. apartment (pictured) as his mailing address when opening a U.S. bank account the following year

Batbold's son used the West 56th St. apartment as his mailing address when opening a U.S. bank account the following year, prosecutors claimed.

Batbold's son is also listed as a 'co-owner' of an apartment in Carlton House on East 61st St., which was bought by another company controlled by the Catrison board member for $9.9 million in 2015, according to prosecutors.

A listing on StreetEasy said the apartment has three bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms with white oak floors throughout and a Chef's kitchen.

Prosecutors also alleged that a shell company owned by Batbold that was awarded a $30 million mining contract wired money to an account in the United States held by Batbold's eldest son that was earmarked for personal use.

'Mr. Batbold looks forward to his day in court, when he will have the opportunity to defend himself against these unfounded claims,' his lawyer, Orin Snyder, said to Reuters.
At least 46 candidates have given up their political aspirations after receiving threats from criminal organizations in Mexico.

Twelve of the public office hopefuls dropped out of the mayoral and city council races on Tuesday in the central state of Morelos.

Another 34 candidates walked away from seeking office in the western state of Michoacan, according to data released by the state's electoral board and political parties on Monday.

Sergio Prado, the leader for the Institutional Revolutionary Party in Morelos, said the candidates were part of a coalition that was formed to challenge the governing Morena party of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

'Candidates for councilors from the different slates in some municipalities have been threatened, which has led to the fact that in a couple of municipalities we will not run, as a party so as not to endanger our colleagues,' Prado said during a press conference on Tuesday. 'However, we are going to beat them on June 2.'

Diego Perez, who was running for office in the southern state of Chiapas, was found dead March 14. His wife and son were wounded

Tomas Morales aspired to become the mayor of Chilapa, a municipality in the Pacific coast state of Guerrero, and was shot dead in front of his home March 12

Prado, who did not provide the name of the candidates, called on the government to increase law enforcement presence to that residents can show up at the ballot boxes without the fear of being caught in the middle of an attack.

The candidates' decision to remove their names ahead of the June general elections come as seven politicians have been assassinated since January.

Diego Perez, the Institutional Revolutionary Party's candidate for mayor in the southern city of San Juan Cancuc, was found shot dead and tortured March 14. His wife and son were wounded.

Tomas Morales, who aspired to become the mayor in the Pacific coast city of Chilapa under their governing Morena party of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, was executed in front of his home March 12.

Armando Perez, the candidate for the National Action Party in Maravatio, Michoacan, is one seven Mexican politicians who have been murdered since January

Jesus Corona, a coalition candidate for mayor in the eastern Morelos city of Cuautla, narrowly escaped being murdered with his bodyguard when a gunman opened fired on his bulletproof SUV on Monday night.

Institutional Revolutionary Party leader, Alejandro Moreno, revealed the attack came after Corona was threatened Sunday and told to drop out of the race.

'They want me to quit the campaign, one thing I do tell my city, enough of living in fear, I'm not quitting, I'm going all out,' Corona told reporters. I have the support of the people and I do demand from the governor, I do not ask him, I demand that it is enough for him to do what we, the people of Morelos, asked him to do: give us the security that we all ask for.'

Mexico's drug cartels have often focused assassination attempts on mayors and mayoral candidates, in a bid to control local police or extort money from municipal governments.

The watchdog group Civic Data said in a January report on political violence that '2023 was the most violent year in our database. And everything suggests that 2024 will be worse.'

Mayoral, state and federal elections are increasingly synchronized on one election day.

'It is likely that the biggest elections in history will also suffer the biggest attacks from organized crime,' Civic Data said.
In an explosive piece in Saturday's Mail, Christopher Stevens recounted the horrific year his profoundly autistic adult son David spent in the Old Vicarage residential care home in Cardiff.

When the home was taken over by private equity, standards swiftly deteriorated  and David changed from being a happy young man to one who self-harmed in a desperate attempt to communicate his misery.

In unflinching detail, Stevens described how David was fed Haribo sweets for breakfast and crisps for lunch, was covered in livid bruises and was so terrified to enter the home that staff left him to sleep in a tent outside.

We invited you to tell us if members of your family suffered similar experiences. Here, we reprint a selection of your letters that should make care bosses hang their heads in shame  and prompt reform of this blighted sector...

Daily Mail writer Christopher Stevens with his son David on a family trip to Snowdonia in Wales

It took years to stop my brother's abuse

My youngest brother has been in the care system for more than 30 years.

Christopher Stevens's article was so close to home. During lockdown we discovered that my brother, who is now 55, was being subjected to neglect and physical, psychological and financial abuse.

It took two years of battling and pushing before my wife and I were able to obtain a Court of Protection deputyship to enable us to move him to a safer environment.

We went through safeguarding process after safeguarding process, which proved totally useless.

The government-appointed Care Quality Commission (CQC) is quite simply a waste of space. It appears to have no useful legal powers.

Local authority safeguarding processes are equally ineffective, as there is no legal power to compel care providers to engage in them. I have been stonewalled, fobbed off, discredited and lied to many times. I have written and documentary evidence, yet no one seems willing to listen.

Our social care system has enormous shortcomings. Please, can someone help?

D. T.

Christopher Stevens's son David banged his head so frequently, in a bid to communicate his misery, that thick layers of contusion built up on his forehead

Our son's care costs quadrupled after poor treatment

Our son is 30 years old, severely autistic and has been diagnosed with trauma. His communication is very much like Christopher Stevens's son David's.

He went into residential care at the age of 19 and at first the staff were excellent. But as they retired, new staff were employed and everything became very difficult for our son. He had been attending college twice a week but funding issues ended this.

He became more agitated and would run out of the home. The staff were unable to cope with his needs, so we were called to a meeting and told he would be moving to another residential home.

Our son coped well with the change at first, but staff did not listen to our concerns or advice on his care. They gave him too many drinks, then were surprised when he urinated on the grass. They ignored his need for sleep (he needs at least ten hours each night).

Over time he became more agitated. A psychologist diagnosed trauma and introduced a programme that included a tent for his room, a weighted vest and other sensory items. He improved greatly and when he came home for Christmas in 2022, he was relaxed and happy, able to concentrate, and communicating better than he had ever done before.

After his return, though, the equipment was removed and his behaviour began to spiral out of control. Staff lacked the training to support him and he began to self-harm.

One day he ran out of the house, across a field and over a main road, and was nearly hit by a heavy goods vehicle. When he got back, a staff member called him 'a silly man'.

After a spell in a secure unit he was moved to another house, but after only five weeks he was served notice to leave. It was suggested that he should be sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

Luckily he received a placement in a specially created new unit, where he is now.

He has been traumatised by all these moves and is terrified of being moved again. Anyone who knows autistic people also knows they cannot cope with too many changes.

We put in detailed complaints about his treatment, which were investigated and upheld.

Because of how he was treated, our son's behaviour and communication have deteriorated so hugely in 15 months that his care costs have quadrupled, as he now needs round-the-clock one-to-one support. He finds being out in public very stressful, is ruled by his trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is dependent on anxiety medication to survive.

J. & G. B.

When Christopher Stevens begged to be told what was happening to his son David, he was invariably told these were self-harm injuries

Staff were ashamed of the state I found my brother in

My late brother suffered neglect and abuse while he was in a care home.

My sister and I are both experienced nurses but our complaints were not dealt with appropriately. I lived 200 miles from him and visited fortnightly for four consecutive days, usually spending about three hours with him on each visit. My sister was 90 miles away and saw him between my visits.

Among our concerns about him were his excessive weight loss, missing dentures, broken glasses and hearing aids he could not find. He lost four watches and his shoes and slippers went missing, so he would walk about barefoot.

Some staff told me they were ashamed of the state I had found him in. One particular staff member told me she used to worry about what was happening to the residents when she was off-duty.

I contacted the CQC several times and was told I was describing a safeguarding issue and it would deal with social services in order to resolve it.

My brother sustained a significant head injury from a fall and no medical attention was sought for him, even though I witnessed him having a fit and slurring his speech. I could not establish who was medically responsible for him.

After my brother's death I had lengthy meetings with social services, who told me they had visited the home but had never seen my brother.

I appreciate that Covid created extra difficulties but that cannot be an excuse for lack of care.

Christopher Stevens and his family have my sincerest sympathy.

B. K.

At the Old Vicarage in Cardiff, bedding was often placed in the bathroom and the toilet was used as a table for a drink

Most homes are run purely for profit

My elderly mother ended up in a care home as she had developed vascular dementia and required specialist care. Unfortunately that care fell well below the standards one would expect. Staff were not adequately trained to handle her and she was covered in nasty bruises. Many staff didn't speak clear English and some couldn't understand what was said. In another instance an agency nurse couldn't prepare the correct dosage for an injection and couldn't even distinguish which port in a cannula to use.

On investigating Mum's room we discovered blood splatters on her ceiling, dust balls under her bed and another resident's personal notes in her drawer. For this we were paying around 1,500 per week.

Although we had photos of Mum's bruises and the home's GP raised concerns, the commission overseeing standards did nothing.

Care in this country for anyone requiring it is in need of a complete overhaul. Most homes are run purely for profit and this is reflected by the staff they employ.

In the final stages of Mum's life we were exceedingly lucky to find a home where there were some fantastic carers who went above and beyond their duties. They are the hidden diamonds rare and beautiful.

Until the care commission takes action, standards will continue to slip.

J. J.

The CQC and police investigated everywhere I worked

I was very sorry to read about the appalling treatment of Christopher Stevens's son in residential care, though not at all surprised.

Years of working as a speech and language therapist in residential homes and hospitals for people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health problems have given me an insight into how and why things can go badly wrong.

At every establishment where I worked, there were investigations by the CQC and the police.

In David's case, his communication difficulties have clearly added to his problems, and poor support is a common feature in many such sad stories.

M. F.
A father-of-three who died when his plane crashed on the airfield of Britain's largest aviation museum has been named by his family today.

Simon Riggs, a recently retired tech entrepreneur, from Ampthill in Bedfordshire, was pronounced dead at the scene on Tuesday afternoon after the crash at Imperial War Museum Duxford, Cambridgeshire.

His step-son, Sam Holdstock-Marshall, paid tribute on social media saying: 'It is with a heavy heart that I'm sharing this news. Yesterday afternoon Simon Riggs passed away. A much loved husband, father and friend.

'Having recently stepped down from working life, Simon continued to live his life to the fullest. He will be greatly missed.'

It is understood that a group of schoolchildren on a trip to the air museum also witnessed the horrifying crash.

Simon Riggs, a tech entrepreneur from Bedfordshire, was pronounced dead at the scene on Tuesday afternoon. Pictured here with his wife Karen

He is survived by his wife of six years, Karen, three adult children and three adult step-children

His step-son, Sam Holdstock-Marshall, paid tribute on social media. He wrote: 'It is with a heavy heart that I'm sharing this news. Yesterday afternoon Simon Riggs passed away. A much loved husband, father and friend'

Mr Riggs, who has recently retired from being a software developer and database manager, had also founded the data server solution company 2ndQuadrant.

The pilot was flying the privately owned General Aviation Cirrus SR22 when it crashed shortly after 1.40pm at Duxford Airfield in Cambridgeshire.

He is survived by his wife of six years, Karen, three adult children and three adult step-children.

No one else was on board the plane at the time of the incident and emergency services, including nine fire engines from Cambridgeshire and one from Newmarket, attended the scene.

Police have now passed the investigation over to the Air Accident Investigation Branch, who remain on site at Duxford.

An East of England Ambulance Service spokesman said: 'We were called at 1.40pm on Tuesday with reports that an aircraft had crashed at Duxford Airfield.

'Two ambulances, three ambulance officer vehicles, three Hazardous Area Response Team vehicles and the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance attended the scene.

'Sadly, despite the best efforts of all emergency services involved, a man was pronounced dead at the scene.'

Police have now passed the investigation over to the Air Accident Investigation Branch, who remain on site at Duxford

A spokesperson for Imperial War Museums Duxford said: 'We are sad to report that the pilot, a man in his 50s from the Bedfordshire area, did not survive the crash'

A private plane has crashed yesterday at the Imperial War Museum airfield

East of England Ambulance Service have confirmed that a man died at the scene

A spokesperson for Imperial War Museums Duxford said: 'We are sad to report that the pilot, a man in his 50s from the Bedfordshire area, did not survive the crash.

'Despite the best efforts of medical crews, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

'Cambridgeshire Police have informed next of kin, who attended the scene of the accident yesterday. The aircraft was a privately-owned General Aviation Cirrus SR22, based at Duxford. There were no other passengers.

'Police have now passed the investigation over to the Air Accident Investigation Branch, who remain on site at Duxford.'

It added: 'IWM Duxford will remain closed to visitors on Wednesday and Thursday. We are expecting to reopen to the public on Friday.'

Horrifying photos show the wreckage on the ground after the crash

The emergency services had raced to the scene while witnesses told how they saw emergency workers performing CPR on a person close to the wreckage of a small plane.

Another eyewitness said the air ambulance remained on scene for two hours.

Kate Moore, 62, was at Duxford airfield with her husband when the crash happened.

She said: 'While we were outside, we heard a bang and turned to see plume of smoke.

'We were a long way away and many others there hadn't an idea anything had occurred. I only saw the crash post impact.

'It's all a rather tragic end to a joyful day seeing the Hurricane and other planes flying after their winter maintenance.'

An AAIB spokesperson said: 'A multi-disciplinary team of AAIB inspectors has deployed to Duxford, Cambridgeshire, to begin investigating an accident involving a light aircraft.'
Donald Trump went back to attacking the judge in the Stormy Daniels case as well as his daughter, a day after Judge Juan Merchan issued a gag order barring him from directing comments at court staff or family members.

Trump brought back his demand that Judge Merchan, who also oversaw a Trump Organization tax fraud case, recuse from the matter, accusing him from suffering from 'Trump Derangement Syndrome.'

Trump called the gag 'un-American' and a violation of his First Amendment rights, and brought up his daughter's work as a political consultant for a digital firm with a roster of Democratic clients.

That came hours after Merchan issued his order barring Trump from making statements about a 'reasonably foreseeable witness' as well as making comments about counsel, court staff, or 'the family members of any counsel or staff member.'

Former President Donald Trump attacked the judge overseeing the Stormy Daniels case, while also going after his daughter. Judge Juan Merchan then slapped a gag order on him

'Judge Juan Merchan, who is suffering from an acute case of Trump Derangement Syndrome (whose daughter represents Crooked Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Adam Shifty Schiff, and other Radical Liberals, has just posted a picture of me behind bars, her obvious goal, and makes it completely impossible for me to get a fair trial) has now issued another illegal, un-American, unConstitutional order, as he continues to try and take away my Rights,' Trump began.

He was referencing an online post by journalist and conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer, who wrote that an X account belonging to Loren Merchan had as its profile picture an image of Trump behind bars.

The account she linked was created in 2013 and had only four posts, and could not immediately be independently confirmed to be hers. The account's posts are protected, and it has 63 followers.

By late Wednesday morning, the image had changed from one of Trump to a childhood image of Vice President Kamala Harris.

Trump also blasted Merchan.

'This Judge, by issuing a vicious Gag Order, is wrongfully attempting to deprive me of my First Amendment Right to speak out against the Weaponization of Law Enforcement, including the fact that Crooked Joe Biden, Merrick Garland, and their Hacks and Thugs are tracking and following me all across the Country, obsessively trying to persecute me, while everyone knows I have done nothing wrong!' he wrote.

Trump claimed Merchan's daughter posted an image of him behind bars, but the recent account had only 63 followers and its profile picture soon changed to a young Kamala Harris

After Trump accused the judge's daughter of posting an image of him behind bars, an account opened last year switched its profile picture to a young Kamala Harris

Trump's lawyers last year tried to force Merchan to recuse from the case, but a state ethics panel issued an opinion that he could remain, and Merchan himself determined his recusal 'would not be in the public interest,' after he was revealed to have contributed $15 to Joe Biden's campaign.

Trump's lawyers cited Loren Merchan's advocacy work at that time.

Merchan slapped a gag order on Trump Tuesday after he used his social media platform to tear into prosecutors in the Stormy Daniels case as well as the judge and his daughter.

The gag prohibits the former president from making statements about witnesses, prosecutors, or their family members if meant to interfere with the case.

It comes after Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg sought the order Feb. 22 by invoking Trump's 'longstanding history' of going after witnesses, prosecutors, and judges.

Merchan is taking a page from New York Judge Arthur Engoron, who slapped a series of gag orders on Trump following attacks on himself, state AG Letitia James, and the judge's chief clerk.

'The uncontested record reflecting the Defendants prior extrajudicial statements establishes a sufficient risk to the administration of justice,' he wrote.

'His statements were threatening, inflammatory, denigrating,' wrote Merchan, who has a reputation for not allowing disruptions in his courtroom. His four-page order references attacks on 'a family member.'

Trump has found ways to make hay out of the gags, as he has with his four criminal trials  blasting efforts to muzzle him as a form of censorship.

The latest order prevents Trump from commenting on witnesses, lawyers and other court personnel, the judge, or family members, although it does allow him to keep bashing DA Alvin Bragg.

In his order, Merchan notes that 'the freedom of speech guaranteed by the First Amendment and the State's interest in the fair administration of justice' are implicated in the remedy prosecutors sought.

It applies Trump from both making or 'directing others' to make public statements about 'known or foreseable witnesses' in the case, which would apply to former Trump fixer Michael Cohen, whom Trump has called a rat.

Restricts extrajudicial statements about cousnel for the DA, court staff, family members of counsel or staff with the 'intent to materially interfere with' work on the case. It also applies to statements about any prospective juror or juror in the proceeding.

It all came after Trump railed at the man overseeing the Stormy Daniels trial a day after Judge Juan Merchan set an April trial date despite a push by Trump's lawyers to dismiss the case.

Trump was inside a Manhattan courtroom with Merchan on Monday as lawyers argued about the start of his first criminal trial, now set for April 15. On Tuesday, he launched multiple online attacks on judges and prosecutors, even while calling Merchan a 'distinguished looking man.'

He targeted Merchan's daughter and bemoaned the treatment of former Trump Organization exec Allen Weisselberg, who pleaded guilty this month to lying under oath without agreeing to cooperate. It comes after his repeated attacks in his separate New York fraud trial prompted Judge Arthur Engoron to impose a 'gag' order prohibiting him from attacking his chief clerk.

'Judge Juan Merchan, a very distinguished looking man, is nevertheless a true and certified Trump Hater who suffers from a very serious case of Trump Derangement Syndrome,' Trump wrote.

'In other words, he hates me! His daughter is a senior executive at a Super Liberal Democrat firm that works for Adam Shifty Schiff, the Democrat National Committee, (Dem)Senate Majority PAC, and even Crooked Joe Biden,' Trump wrote.

Trump's lawyers last year tried to force Merchan off the case by citing his daughter's work for Authentic Campaigns, a digital advocacy firm, but were denied.

Then Trump went after Merchan for his role overseeing the Weisselberg case. (He also oversaw former Trump campaing chair Steve Bannon's criminal fraud case).

Merchan showed some of his tough side when Weisselberg was sentenced, telling him that if he hadn't already pledged a five-month sentence he would have gone for something 'much greater.'

Trump railed against Judge Juan Merchan, while calling him 'distinguished looking'

Trump teed off after a crunch hearing in his hush money case with his lawyers demanding that it be delayed for months

Trump, 77, complained about the case without saying directly he was referencing the longtime Trump exec first brought on by his father, Fred Trump, calling the 76-year-old Weisselberg 'elderly and not in good health.'

'He was recently the judge on an unrelated trial of a long term employee, elderly and not in good health. This judge treated him viciously, telling him either you cooperate or Im putting you in jail for 15 years. He pled, and went to jail for very minor offenses, highly unusual, served 4 months in Rikers, and now they are after him again, this time for allegedly lying (doesnt look like a lie to me!), and they threatened him again with 15 years if he doesnt say something bad about TRUMP. He is devastated and scared! These COUNTRY DESTROYING SCOUNDRELS & THUGS HAVE NO CASE AGAINST ME. WITCH HUNT!'

Trump was in Merchan's courtroom as his team sought to dismiss or delay the trial over charges of falsifying business records relating to the $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels, who claims she had an affair with Trump. They said they needed more time after prosecutors released more than 100,000 pages of evidence.

But Merchan rejected the plea after a tense hearing where he sparred with Trump's lawyer Todd Blanche.

Prosecutors 'went so far above and beyond what they were required to do that really it's odd that we're even here taking this time,' the judge said.

Merchan last year considered Trump's motion to have him recuse from the case, addressing the arguments about his daughter, including the claim that she 'stands to financially benefit' from decisions of the court.

'Defendant has failed to demonstrate that there exists concrete, or even realistic reasons for recusal to be appropriate, much less required on these grounds. The speculative and hypothetical scenarios offered by defendant fall well short of the legal standard,' Merchan wrote.
Labour MP Wes Streeting has ridiculed Just Stop Oil (JSO) after one of its most prolific activists was filmed breaching bail conditions in order to post a letter at his house - only to reportedly visit the wrong one.

Phoebe Plummer, 22, regularly features in the eco-activist movement's social media content - throwing soup over a Van Gogh sunflower painting and being arrested for breaching bail by attending MPs' home addresses.

But the group appears to have made an error as it shot a video showing the 'poster girl' attending an address, believed to be in London, that she claims is the home of the Shadow Health Secretary so she can deliver a letter.

However, within minutes of the video being shared online, Mr Streeting took to X, formerly Twitter, to say: 'That isn't my house.'

The smug JSO post, shared shortly after 3pm today, ripped into the Metropolitan Police and claimed the force was 'losing its touch' because there were no officers present to arrest her.

Just Stop Oil 'poster girl' Phoebe Plummer was filmed delivering a letter to what she said was the home of Labour MP Wes Streeting

But Streeting immediately took to social media after JSO shared the video and said the house was not his

Labour MP Mr Streeting, who is also shadow health secretary, said JSO hadn't even managed to visit the right borough of London

In the video, Plummer says: 'This is the letter I'm delivering to Wes Streeting. It appears that there's no police here this time.

'Maybe they've realised that there's not much harm in just delivering a letter to your MP. It's what they've always asked us to do after all.'

She then sarcastically asks: ' Should I go hand myself in for breaking bail? I mean, that seemed pretty harmless but it was worth arresting me for last time.'

The JSO post said: 'Hey @metpoliceuk you're losing your touch. Phoebe broke bail today delivering a letter to @wesstreeting, despite being arrested twice for delivering letters before. What's going on?'

But within minutes of sharing the video, Mr Streeting responded by mocking the group for appearing to attend at the wrong house.

'I dont know which poor sod got your letter, but that isnt my house,' he wrote, ending the sentence with a clown emoji.

He added: 'If you want to write to me, you can do so quite easily via Parliament or my constituency office. Constituents can also visit my surgeries.'

Mr Streeting then wrote in a further tweet: 'It isnt even my Borough,' adding a 'facepalm' emoji.

JSO had earlier written on X that it would be 'round' at Mr Streeting's at 1pm.

It had said: 'Hey @wesstreeting - get the battenberg out love, we'll be round yours at 1 x.'

Mockery aside, some shared concerns about whether Just Stop Oil's publicity stunts will impact the privacy and the safety of MPs - particularly at a time when MPs face increasing threats.

Responding to the JSO tweet, political commentator Matthew Stadlen said: 'This is really disgusting. Revealing a politician's house (and this isn't even Wes Streeting's house) is absolutely unacceptable and deeply shameful. You disgrace your cause.'

Another user said: 'So you broke bail, copied the police in to a video of you delivering a letter to the wrong person's house and you wonder why people are not sympathetic.'

Plummer was also filmed earlier this month outside the home of MP Emily Thornberry after posting a letter through the shadow attorney general's letterbox.

She told officers at the veteran MP's address: 'You might want to know I'm also breaking police bail. I've bailed not to go to any MP's house.

'I don't know if you wanna like follow up on that, considering as you can see like that (posting a letter) was our only intention.'

Plummer was then seen being arrested and getting into a police van.

Reacting to the news that they had visited the wrong place, Just Stop Oil told MailOnline: 'You win some, you lose some! Hopefully Wes will do his duty to protect his constituents and uses whatever leverage he has to stop the dirty oil and gas extraction that is harming our communities.

'We are asking Wes to commit to resign from the Labour Party if, on gaining power, Labour fails to halt all oil and gas licences granted by the Tories since 2021.'

MailOnline has contacted the Metropolitan Police for comment.
New leadership at the Republican National Committee is asking prospective employees where they stand on the results of the 2020 presidential election as a prerequisite to their hiring, multiple reports confirm.

During interviews for a job with the RNC, potential hires are being asked if they believe the 2020 election was stolen, people familiar with the process claim.

But even newly minted RNC co-chair Lara Trump, the former president's daughter-in-law, says it's time to move on from 2020.

'I think we're past that. I think that's in the past,' she told NBC News when asked whether the RNC's position will be that the 2020 election was not fair.

Additionally, the new RNC is looking at substantially hollowing out the headquarters in Washington, D.C. and employees might be expected to relocate to an office near Donald Trump 's Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, Florida, The Washington Post reported.

Reports follow election of new leadership within the GOP after former Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel stepped down earlier this month following months of pressure from MAGA world to leave her post.

New RNC leadership is asking potential hires during their interview whether they believe the 2020 election was stolen, according to multiple reports. Pictured: Michael Whatley (left) was elected new RNC Chairman earlier this month and Donald Trump's daughter-in-law Lara (right) was elected co-chair

It's not unusual for those at the RNC to mimic ideals pushed by the party's presidential candidate  but many claim their stance on Trump's insistence that there was fraud in 2020 has become a litmus test for their hiring

Longtime Trump ally and former North Carolina GOP Chairman Michael Whatley was elected to replace McDaniel. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump's daughter-in-law was elected as RNC co-chair.

It's not unusual for a party to mix with the campaign of the presidential nominee, but with four months left until the Republican convention it struck many as premature to put in place an entirely MAGA team at the spring meeting in Texas earlier in March.

The RNC did not immediately respond to a request from DailyMail.com on the reported litmus test.

RNC Spokeswoman Danielle Alvarez, however, sent a statement to other outlets when asked about the reports saying: 'Candidates who worked on the front line in battleground states or are currently in states where fraud allegations have been prevalent were asked about their work experience.'

'We want experienced staff with meaningful views on how elections are won and lost and real experience-based opinions about what happens in the trenches,' Alvarez said.

Some prospective employees recalled questions they were asked in their interview to join the RNC.

'Was the 2020 election stolen?' was one question an individual recalled being asked in an interview where two Trump advisers were present.

One former RNC employee said while the question was open ended, it was clear what they wanted to hear.

'[I]f you say the election wasn't stolen, do you really think you're going to get hired?' they asked.

Longtime GOP strategist Doug Heye, who worked as communications director at the RNC, told the Post that the GOP has long expected staffers to back the positions of its presidential candidates.

'You're there for that specific reason  to back the candidate up and go along with the worldview,' he said.

'The problem with Trumpism is that despite bringing in very smart and very capable people, if you want to play Trump's game, you have to back him up on everything he says,' Heye recognized. 'Claims about the election being stolen is kind of the last frontier of that.'

McDaniel, after leaving the RNC, joined NBC News as a contributor, it was announced last week. But after just one appearance on the network in an interview with Meet the Press host Kristen Welker, McDaniel was dropped.

'I] you say the election wasn't stolen, do you really think you're going to get hired?' one former RNC employee posed

Former RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel stepped down from her position after pressure from Trump world. She soft-launched her new NBC News contributor gig with an appearance on Meet the Press on Sunday morning with Kristen Welker but days later was drooped from the new gig

On Sunday, McDaniel and Welker got into a heated discussion over the former RNC chair's previous stances pushing claims the 2020 election was stolen and saying that January 6 prisoners should be freed. McDaniel said she had to 'take one for the team' as the voice of the GOP, but cleared up she does think President Joe Biden did legitimately win in 2020 despite 'problems.'

Welker pushed McDaniel on her flip-flopping and after the interview fellow NBC host Chuck Todd said she was spewing whatever stance was taken by the people paying her.

McDaniel's ouster came after a slew of on-air protests from longtime hosts who objected to McDaniel's hiring at the left-leaning network because they didn't like that she had pushed Trump's claims the 2020 election was stolen.

Among those who spoke out publicly against their NBC bosses for hiring McDaniels included Chuck Todd, who said executives owe Welker an 'apology' for having her soft-launch the new gig on her show.

Others who spoke out were Rachel Maddow, Mika Brzezinski, Joe Scarborough and Jen Psaki, who also came from the partisan world when she was hired directly off her job as President Joe Biden's press secretary.
Sacramento officials have voted to become a sanctuary city for transgender people - as multiple Republican states have started banning so-called gender-affirming care for children.

California's capital is the first in the state to vote for such legislation after the bill introduced by councilmember Katie Valenzuela was unanimously approved by City Council.

Sacramento follows Ithaca, New York, which has also passed similar legislation.

'California has been a leader in protecting the rights of transgender individuals to access care, but many states across the nation are moving in the opposite direction,' the local official said, as reported by Fox40.

'In preparation of future legislation that may criminalize those providing or seeking gender-affirming care and given the Councils stated values of equity and inclusion, it is important for the City of Sacramento to be proactive in reiterating our commitment to transgender rights and equal protections for transgender people.'

Sacramento officials have voted to become a sanctuary city for transgender people

The bill introduced by councilmember Katie Valenzuela and unanimously approved Tuesday

The group Moms for Liberty, which campaigns against allowing gender-affirming care for children, protested the bull outside City Hall on Tuesday

The group Moms for Liberty, which campaigns against allowing gender-affirming care for children, protested the bull outside City Hall on Tuesday.

Sacramento Beth Bourne told Fox40: 'If were so progressive in Sacramento, why are we going against what all these European countries are doing... This does not make sense.'

Bourne was referencing the growing list of European countries which have stopped providing surgeries and hormones to children after allowing them for years. The U-turns come amid growing claims children who say they are trans should receive intensive psychological help and support before undergoing chemical or surgical treatment.

Protesters held signs with messages such as 'dont let your body be their piggy bank' and 'gender clinics harm children.'

Meanwhile trans advocate Sabrina Naves told CBS News that families have been moving to Sacramento from other states that have restricted treatments for children with gender dysphoria.

The bill, which went into effect immediately, restricts city employees from using any resources in enforcing other states' policies against trans care.

At least 23 states in the country have either banned or restricted gender-affirming care.

Measures to narrowly define sex as male or female, or to conflate the terms gender and sex are cropping up in over a dozen US states this year

However, a Biden administration proposal to forbid such outright bans is set to be finalized this year after multiple delays and much pushback. As proposed, the rule would establish that blanket bans would violate Title IX, the landmark gender-equity legislation enacted in 1972.

LGBTQ+ advocates say that most of the states inclined to pass bans on gender-affirming care have done so, and that they now expect them to build on those restrictions and expand them to include adults. With legislatures in most states up for election this year, transgender youths and their families worry about again being targeted by conservatives using them as a wedge issue.

In Ohio, House Republicans voted in January to override Republican Governor Mike DeWines veto of legislation banning all forms of gender-affirming care for minors. The Senate is expected to follow suit this month.

An opinion poll found that at least 8 percent of trans adults have already left their neighborhood or state due to the new rules affecting them, and another 43 percent are thinking about making a move

The State Capitol is illuminated in rainbow colors to celebrate PRIDE month

Despite his veto, DeWine signed an order banning the rare occurrence of gender-transition surgeries before adulthood. He also proposed rules mandating a care team for children and adults that critics say could severely restrict access for all patients.

Those who support the bans say they want to protect children and have concerns about the treatments themselves. Major medical groups, including the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics, oppose the bans and have endorsed such care, saying its safe when administered properly.

Last years limits included a Florida law that has made it nearly impossible for many transgender adults in the state to receive gender-affirming care. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has promoted that ban as one of his accomplishments.
FILE - Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, speaks during a news conference outside the Capitol, Dec. 13, 2023, in Washington. Mariam Zuhaib/AP Media waits outside federal court Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP Hunter Biden, left, son of President Joe Biden, arrives with attorney Abbe Lowell at the O'Neill House Office Building for a closed-door deposition in a Republican-led investigation into the Biden family, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. Lawmakers from the House Oversight and Accountability Committee and the House Judiciary Committee are conducting the inquiry. J. Scott Applewhite/AP Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, with attorney Abbe Lowell, left, leaves after a closed-door deposition in the Republican-led investigation into the Biden family, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. J. Scott Applewhite/AP Hunter Biden departs after a closed door private deposition with House committees leading the President Biden impeachment inquiry, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, in Washington. Alex Brandon/AP Hunter Biden, left, son of President Joe Biden, arrives with attorney Abbe Lowell at the O'Neill House Office Building for a closed-door deposition in a Republican-led investigation into the Biden family, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. Lawmakers from the House Oversight and Accountability Committee and the House Judiciary Committee are conducting the inquiry. J. Scott Applewhite/AP The exterior of the federal courthouse is seen Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP The exterior of the federal courthouse is seen Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP The exterior of the federal courthouse is seen Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP The exterior of the federal courthouse is seen Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP

LOS ANGELES (AP)  Attorneys for Hunter Biden asked a judge Wednesday to toss out the tax case accusing him of a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle.

President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. His attorneys argued the prosecution is politically motivated, was tainted by leaks from IRS agents who claimed publicly the case was mishandled and includes some allegations from before he moved to California.

Prosecutors framed the claims as far-fetched during the three-hour hearing. Prosecutor Leo Wise scoffed at the idea that the case was tainted by the IRS agents who I couldnt have picked out of a lineup."

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Defense attorney Abbe Lowell, on the other hand, maintained the case was hopelessly contaminated by partisan politics, calling it the least ordinary prosecution a person could imagine.

U.S. District Judge Mark C. Scarsi appeared to be skeptical, telling Lowell the hard evidence for some of his claims was lacking. You cite to a lot of things on the internet," he said.

Scarsi said he would likely rule on motions to dismiss by April 17.

Hunter Biden has also been charged in Delaware with lying on a federal form to buy a gun in 2018 by saying he wasnt using or addicted to illegal drugs, even though he has acknowledged being addicted to crack cocaine at the time. He has pleaded not guilty in that case, which also accuses him of possessing the gun illegally.

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Both cases are overseen by special counsel David Weiss and now have tentative trials scheduled for June, though defense attorneys are also trying to get the Delaware gun charges tossed out.

The two sets of charges come from a yearslong federal investigation that had been expected to wrap up over the summer with a plea deal in which Hunter Biden would have gotten two years of probation after pleading guilty to misdemeanor tax charges. The president's son, who has since repaid the back taxes with a loan, also would have avoided prosecution on the gun charge if he stayed out of trouble.

Defense attorneys argue that immunity provisions in the deal were signed by a prosecutor and are still in effect, though prosecutors disagree.

But the deal that could have spared Hunter Biden the spectacle of a criminal trial during the 2024 presidential campaign unraveled after a federal judge in Delaware began to question it. Now, the tax and gun cases are moving ahead as part of an unprecedented confluence of political and legal drama: As the November election draws closer, the Justice Department is actively prosecuting both the Democratic presidents son and the presumptive Republican nominee, Donald Trump.

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Hunter Bidens original proposed plea deal with prosecutors had been pilloried as a sweetheart deal by Republicans, including Trump. The former president is facing his own criminal problems  91 charges across four cases, including that he plotted to overturn the results of the 2020 election, which he lost to Joe Biden.

Hunter Bidens criminal proceedings are also happening in parallel to so-far unsuccessful efforts by congressional Republicans to link his business dealings to his father. Republicans are pursuing an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, claiming he was engaged in an influence-peddling scheme with his son. No evidence has emerged to prove that Joe Biden, as president or previously as vice president, abused his role or accepted bribes, though questions have arisen about the ethics surrounding the Biden familys international business dealings.

In launching their Biden impeachment inquiry last year, the House Republicans relied in large part on unverified claims from an FBI informant released by Senate Republicans suggesting that payments totaling $10 million from Ukrainian energy company Burisma to the Bidens were discussed. The now-former FBI informant, Alexander Smirnov, was arrested last month in a case also overseen by Weiss. He has pleaded not guilty to charges that he fabricated the bribery allegations. His attorney attended Wednesdays hearing, though he did not speak in the courtroom.

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Rishi Sunak has suffered fresh polling woe as the Tories plummeted to their lowest vote share ever in Wales.

A new Redfield & Wilton Strategies survey found only 16 per cent of Welsh voters would back the Conservatives at a general election.

This was a six percentage point fall in the Tory vote share from last month's poll and gave Labour a staggering 33-point lead.

Sir Keir Starmer's party were backed by almost half (49 per cent) of Welsh voters, which was up four points from last month.

The Tories are also now only one point ahead of Reform UK in Wales, with the Nigel Farage-backed party supported by 15 per cent of Welsh voters.

Rishi Sunak has suffered fresh polling woe as the Tories plummeted to their lowest vote share ever in Wales

A new Redfield & Wilton Strategies survey found only 16 per cent of Welsh voters would back the Conservatives at a general election

The latest Redfield & Wilton research found only 37 per cent of those who voted for the Conservatives in 2019 would vote for the Tories again

Vaughan Gething, who became the new Welsh First Minister last week, begins his term in office with a net approval rating of +4 per cent

The slump in the Conservative vote share means Mr Sunak's party are now at their lowest level ever in Redfield & Wilton's polling in Wales.

And Labour now hold their largest lead in the country since the pollster began tracking the support of Welsh voters last April.

Reform UK, who recently saw former Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson defect to their ranks, achieved their highest share of the vote in the latest Welsh poll.

At the 2019 general election, Labour secured 41 per cent of the vote share in Wales, with the Tories winning 36 per cent.

The latest Redfield & Wilton research found only 37 per cent of those who voted for the Conservatives in 2019 would vote for the Tories again.

One quarter (25 per cent) of 2019 Tory voters saud they would now vote for Labour at a general election, while 24 per cent would vote for Reform UK.

By contrast, more than eight in 10 (82 per cent) of those who voted Labour in Wales in 2019 would back the party again.

A majority of Welsh voters (58 per cent) said Mr Sunak's Government in Westminster was incompetent, while only 16 per cent said it was competent.

When asked who would be a better PM between Mr Sunak and Sir Keir, 44 per cent backed the Labour leader while only 26 per cent supported his Tory rival.

Vaughan Gething, who became the new Welsh First Minister last week, begins his term in office with a net approval rating of +4 per cent.

The poll found one-quarter (25 per cent) of voters approved of his overall job performance with 21 per cent saying they disapproved.

But a majority (54 per cent) of Welsh voters said they neither approved nor disapproved (36 per cent) or didn't know (18 per cent).

Redfield & Wilton Strategies polled 878 voters online in Wales between 23-24 March.
Prince Harry's failed court case against the Home Office over the removal of his automatic police protection has cost the taxpayer more than 500,000, it was revealed yesterday.

Officials spent 514,128 fighting two separate judicial review claims brought by the Duke of Sussex after his security status was downgraded when he and wife Meghan ceased being working royals and moved to the US.

The legal bill could still increase, as Harry has vowed to appeal against his latest defeat when a judge last month ruled he had failed to prove the decision was unfair or unlawful.

The costs of the two claims will raise questions over a member of the Royal Family launching legal action against the Government.

The legal bill included more than 180,000 for barristers, 320,000 for the Government's legal department, which provides legal advice, and 3,200 in court fees, according to a Freedom of Information request by the Daily Telegraph.

Prince Harry's (pictured last March outside the High Court) failed court case against the Home Office over the removal of his automatic police protection has cost the taxpayer more than 500,000

Officials spent 514,128 fighting two separate judicial review claims brought by the Duke of Sussex after his security status was downgraded

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry at the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf on September 16, 2023

Almost 10,000 was spent on the disclosure of electronic documents linked to the case, believed to include emails between civil servants and the Royal Household.

Harry, 39, claimed the decision by the Home Office's Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures, known as Ravec, was unfair and jeopardised the safety of him and his family.

His lawyers argued he was 'singled out' and treated less favourably than other VIPs.

The Home Office said Britain had 'finite public resources' and argued police protection should be limited to those 'acting in the interest of the State through their public role'.

A High Court judge ruled the decision to revoke his round-the-clock taxpayer-funded police protection and instead review his security needs on a case-by-case basis was lawful, and dismissed his case.

Prince Harry and Meghan, pictured at an Invictus Games event in Canada on February 14, 2024

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stand outside Kensington Palace after announcing their engagement in November 2017

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex attend an event in Whistler near Vancouver in the build up to the 2025 Invictus Games

William, Harry, Meghan and Charles speak together at a service at Westminster Abbey in March 2019 - the year before the Sussexes stepped down as senior royals and moved to the US

The ruling left Harry with an estimated 1million legal bill. He was previously barred from bringing a separate claim over his request to pay for his own protection.

He is pursuing separate legal cases against News Group Newspapers, which publishes The Sun and the now-defunct News of the World, and Associated Newspapers, publisher of the Daily Mail.

In January, he abandoned a libel claim against the Mail's sister paper The Mail on Sunday over an article about his security, leaving him facing an estimated 750,000 legal bill.

Weeks later he accepted 'substantial' damages to end a four-year legal case against Mirror Group Newspapers over phone hacking.
GOP firebrand Matt Gaetz wants Speaker Mike Johnson to beef up protections for two IRS whistleblowers that accused the Justice Department of 'slow-walking' the tax investigation into Hunter Biden.

IRS whistleblower Gary Shapley alleged DOJ dragged its feet in the probe into the president's son's taxes and Joseph Ziegler said Hunter 'received preferential treatment' during the process.

Hunter's attorneys are back in court Wednesday in California as they seek to have the nine charges for allegedly skirting $1.4 million in taxes against him dropped - that could hand him 17 years in prison.

Gaetz, R-Fla., is suggesting to Johnson that he task the House Office of General Counsel with intervening in Hunter's tax case to 'protect the prerogatives of the House of Representatives and to protect the rights of all Americans to make protected disclosures to Congress.'

'The interests of the House of Representatives and the legal rights of our whistleblowers are not being zealously defended by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), who is defending the lawsuit on behalf of the I.R.S.,' Gaetz wrote in the letter.

IRS whistleblower Gary Shapley alleged the Justice Department 'slow-walked' its probe into Hunter's taxes

'Congress should have a strong interest in defending the tax whistleblower provision *it created* at 26 USC 6103(f)(5) ("Disclosure by whistleblower"), which allows those with access to confidential taxpayer information to blow the whistle,' Shapley attorney Tristan Leavitt posted on X.

In his suit, Hunter's lawyers claimed Ziegler and Shapley 'targeted and sought to embarrass Mr. Biden' by sharing confidential tax information in congressional testimony.

Attorneys representing Hunter Biden are participating in another high-profile courtroom drama in Los Angeles on Wednesday. They are expected to ask a judge to throw out felony charges against him for failing to pay over $1 million in taxes.

His lawyers have launched efforts to throw out part or all of the nine charges brought by special counsel David Weiss and Trump-appointed U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi will decide the fate of the case.

The charges stem from what federal prosecutors say was a four-year scheme to skip out on paying the $1.4 million he owed to the IRS and instead use the money to fund an 'extravagant lifestyle' that by his own admission included drugs and alcohol.

IRS whistleblower Joseph Ziegler alleged Hunter 'received preferential treatment' during the process

Ziegler, who identifies as a gay Democrat, alleged Hunter had improperly claimed business deductions for a number of personal expenses, including his children's college tuition, hotel bills and payments to escorts.

Hunter's lawsuit alleges the IRS hasn't done enough to stop the airing of his personal information. It seeks to 'force compliance with federal tax and privacy laws' and damages of $1,000 for every unauthorized disclosure.

Shapley's lawyer at the time called the suit a 'frivolous smear' designed to 'intimidate any current and future whistleblowers.'

His attorney said he did not release confidential tax information except through legal whistleblower disclosures.

'Once Congress released that testimony, like every American citizen, he has a right to discuss that public information.'
Horrific surveillance footage captured the moment a young NYPD cop writhed in agony on the streets of New York after being shot during a traffic stop.

Officer Jonathan Diller, 31, a married father of a one-year-old boy, was shot in the stomach under his bulletproof vest after he and his partner stopped a car with career criminal Guy Rivera, 34, inside.

Rivera allegedly opened fire on Diller after he ordered the suspect to get out of the car. In the new footage, three loud gunshots are heard ringing out as bystanders flee for safety.

'I'm hit!' Diller is heard yelling, while onlookers sprinted from the sound of gunshots. As the footage continues, Diller is heard screaming in pain.

New surveillance footage captured the moment NYPD cop Jonathan Diller, 34, was fatally shot after approaching an illegally parked vehicle

Tributes have poured in for Diller as he was branded a 'hero' by the NYPD commissioner. He leaves behind a wife and one-year-old son

Suspected shooter Guy Rivera is accused of opening fire on Diller. He was found to have a lengthy rap sheet including two stints in prison

The shooting unfolded at around 5:50pm in the Queens borough of New York City on Monday, after Diller approached the illegally parked car in a bus lane, in the Far Rockaway neighborhood.

According to cops, Rivera refused to get out of the car, before he shot Diller beneath his bulletproof vest.

Despite being shot, Diller heroically moved the gun away from the shooter after it was dropped on the ground, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said during a press briefing.

The officer was rushed to Jamaica Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Charges against Rivera are pending as he remains in Jamaica Hospital after Filler's partner, Veckash Khedna, returned fire and hit the career criminal.

In the footage of the shooting, the quiet street was emptied within seconds as the shots rang out.

Witness Dean Peters said Diller erupted with screams of agony, adding: 'He was moving, he was saying, Im hit, Im hit! Giving location and all that.

'Like he was crying, like he was really crying.'

Tributes poured in for Diller after his sudden death, as he leaves behind his wife and infant son.

'Tonight this city lost a hero, a wife lost her husband, and a young child lost their father,' NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban wrote on X.

'We struggle to find the words to express the tragedy of losing one of our own. The work that Police Officer Jonathan Diller did each day to make this city a safer place will NEVER be forgotten.

'Our prayers are with his family, loved ones, and brothers and sisters in blue.'

The alleged driver of the vehicle, Lindy Jones, had 14 prior arrests, including a conviction for attempted murder and robbery in 2003 that saw him serve 10 years behind bars

Officials hailed Diller as a hero after the shooting, as Mayor Eric Adams slammed the 'senseless act of violence' that took his life

NYPD officers escort Diller's body out of Jamaica Hospital on Monday evening

New York City Mayor Eric Adams branded the shooting a 'senseless act of violence' at a press conference outside Jamaica Hospital.

'I cant not say it any clearer: It is the good guys against the bad guys, and these bad guys are violent,' Adams, a former cop, added.

Following Rivera's arrest, it emerged that he has a lengthy criminal history including first degree robbery, illegal gun possession and assaults.

He had 21 prior arrests and previously served five years in prison on drug charges before being paroled in 2021.

Rivera had also been incarcerated from 2011 to 2014 over a first-degree assault charge. The driver of the car, Lindy Jones, 41, was also found to have a criminal background.

Jones had 14 prior arrests, including a conviction for attempted murder and robbery in 2003 that saw him serve 10 years behind bars.

He had been arrested on gun charges last April, but was released on a $75,000 bail that was set to bring him back to court Monday.

Following Jones' April arrest, where he was caught with a loaded firearm, Mayor Adams said that he was a prime example of a 'recidivist problem' - meaning a small number of perpetrators committing a large number of crimes.

'Same bad people doing bad things to good people,' Adams added.

An NYPD officer touches the photograph of his slain colleague at a vigil

Flowers pile up in front of the 101 Precinct in honor of Diller on Wednesday

The shooting also came within hours of another episode of shocking random violence in New York City, as a man was fatally shoved onto the subway tracks.

The suspect in that case, Carlton McPherson, 24, was found to have a history of arrests and violent mental illness dating back almost a decade.

Amid the heightened crime and a spike in attacks on NYPD cops, BPA President Patrick Hendry slammed the recent trends as he spoke of Diller's shooting death.

'Our hero police officer confronted this dangerous individual knowing that he was putting himself at risk, knowing that he had a family waiting for him at home,' Hendry said.

'But he did it to protect the people of this city and we need every single New Yorker to be with this family.

'These attacks on New York City police officers have to end right now. We have a family upstairs right now thats devastated. We have police officers in this hallway who have lost a brother. It has to end now.'
The father of a British 'traitor' who joined the Russian army to fight against Ukraine has today condemned his son - saying 'he's no fighter'.

Ben Stimson travelled to war-torn Donetsk to take up arms for Putin's marauding forces - with his father claiming his son told him he was travelling there to become a teaching assistant.

Martin Stimson, a former local councillor and Morris dancer, told how he has washed his hands of his son after discovering the truth - which he said came after years of difficult behaviour including issues with drugs.

Mr Stimson said his troubled son had previously been living with him for nearly eight months, after leaving prison.

He then told him he had been offered a teaching assistant job in Russia and so left the UK in February where he instead took up arms for Putin.

Ben Stimson, 48, (pictured) travelled to war-torn Donetsk to take up arms for Putin 's marauding forces

Stimson was offered a teaching assistant job in Russia and left the UK in February where he instead took up arms for Putin, according to his father

Stimson's father Martin Stimson (pictured) told how he has washed his hands of his son after discovering the truth

Stimson joined pro-Russian militia forces in the Donbass region in 2015 and was jailed for five years when he returned to Britain in 2017

Martin Stimson (pictured) has today condemned his son - saying 'he's no fighter'

Aiden Minnis (pictured) is a former National Front member and convicted thug from Chippenham, who calls himself a 'Z Patriot'. He has also been disowned by his family, MailOnline revealed earlier

President Vladimir Putin metwith cultural workers in Torzhok in the Tver region today

Stimson had previously joined pro-Russian militia forces in the Donbass region in 2015 and was jailed for five years when he returned to Britain in 2017.

He is currently fighting Ukrainian soldiers with Russia's Pyatnashka brigade, made up of mainly foreign mercenaries.

But speaking today from his home near Oldham his father told MailOnline: 'He's no fighter.he's just bonkers.

'He's not a violent person at all and never has been, so the idea of him being in the army is slightly ridiculous really.

'He never wanted to join the British Army, he was more of an eco-warrior type who went to protests and climbed up trees.. that sort of thing.

'He came out of prison last year and was staying here on and off while he found somewhere to live, but he couldn't find anywhere affordable and at one point he was living rough in Manchester.

'When he was at home he was like a hermit, just stayed upstairs room in his room.

'He told me a few months ago that he was going to start a new life in Spain, and then it was Turkey and then he said he'd been offered a teaching assistant job in Russia.

'He's always liked Russia so he left.'

Mr Stimson Senior says it wasn't until friends started telling him that they had seen images of his son in army fatigues that he realised he had joined up again.

He added: 'By the time he'd left, we were increasingly not getting on and I couldn't do with his presence in the house really.

Minnis's VK page shows him wearing Russian uniforms (left hand side of the Irish flag) with a Donetsk insignia

Minnis (right) is a former drug addict with a long criminal record who labelled Putin as 'still the greatest politician on earth'

Minnis labelled Vladimir Putin as 'still the greatest politician on earth' in one of his social media posts

'People were telling me that Ben was posting images online of him in Russian army uniform but I'd already blocked him on social media by then.

'I've still blocked him - I don't want to hear from him. I don't want to know anymore. I've spent a lifetime - or certainly his lifetime - of bailing him out from places.

'To go out there and fight again - It's crazy - just bonkers - because when he lived with me he didn't really talk much about the war in Ukraine at all.

'But he does go from one thing to another and I believe it's because he suffers from ADHD and I believe he's also bi-polar. It probably didn't help that he had issues with drugs years ago either.'Had these issues been recognised sooner in his life then I think we'd have been spared a lot of trouble.'

Stimson, who has posted a number of videos online since he fled to Donetsk, including sickening footage showing frontline soldiers walking past two dead bodies, is one of at least two British men currently fighting for Russia in Ukraine.

He is friends with Aiden Minnis, 37, a former drug addict and convicted thug from Chippenham, Wiltshire, who calls himself a 'Z Patriot' and a 'sapper in the Russian army'.

He has championed Putin on social media posts, calling the Russian tyrant 'still the greatest politician on earth'.

Former British Army commander Colonel Richard Kemp furiously called for the pair to be arrested and raged: 'These two are an absolute disgrace and are traitors who upon their return to the UK should be arrested and jailed.'

Minnis has also been disowned by his own family, MailOnline revealed earlier.

Minnis was pictured standing in front of a Russian flag alongside another British mercenary who are the first British soldiers known to be fighting against Ukraine.

The 37-year-old, a former member of the far-right National Front with a conviction for a racist attack, has been disowned by his Wiltshire-based family.

A family member said his mother Tina, from Chippenham, Wiltshire, was not even aware her son was fighting on the front line.

'She has nothing to do with him, she has disowned him and they do not speak,' said the family friend.

'I don't think she will ever want to talk about him. She wants nothing to do with him and they have not spoken or had contact for years.'

Stimson posted his first picture from Donetsk onto Russian social network channel VK on March 14 and has uploaded a number of videos ever since. In this one he appears to be holding a deadly 40mm grenade launcher round

Last night, he shared footage of frontline soldiers walking past two dead bodies and land mines in a muddy field, before they dig up a hand grenade

Meanwhile, Stimson posted a video on social media this weekend of him standing in front of a Russian flag wearing military fatigues alongside Minnis, saying: 'Yes, yes, I'm back in Russia, I'm back in uniform.'

The traitor has posted a number of videos online since he fled to Donetsk in February to join Putin's marauding forces, including sickening footage released last night which showed frontline soldiers walking past two dead bodies.

In one of his videos, he declares: 'Every man takes his choice... a lot of us, the foreign volunteers, have chosen to come over to this side, to the Russian side.'

Stimson, who had previously been jailed for assisting pro-Russian militia forces in the Donbass region in 2015, is currently fighting Ukrainian soldiers with the Pyatnashka brigade.

His 'best British friend in the Russian army' Minnis is a former drug addict and convicted thug from Chippenham, who calls himself a 'Z Patriot' and a 'sapper in the Russian army'.

The Wiltshire man has also been active on social media recently, championing Putin, hailing the Russian tyrant as 'still the greatest politician on earth' in one of his posts.

Former British Army commander Colonel Richard Kemp furiously called for the pair to be arrested, raging: 'These two are an absolute disgrace and are traitors who upon their return to the UK should be arrested and jailed.'

The pair will face jail if and when they return to the UK, receiving a similar fate to that of the British jihadis who joined ISIS in Syria.

Stimson posted his first picture from Donetsk onto Russian social network channel VK on March 14 and introduced his 'British friend' Aiden Minnis on the same day.

Having gone off the radar since that day, he posted a video called 'Back to Russia with love' on Saturday.

Having gone off the radar since March 14, he posted a video called 'Back to Russia with love' on Saturday

In the video, he waves an unexploded grenade shell used by Ukraine and jokes: 'We've got some British taxpayers' returns.'

In another clip uploaded last weekend, Stimson adds: 'Every man takes his choice... a lot of us, the foreign volunteers, have chosen to come over to this side, to the Russian side.'

Last night, he shared footage of frontline soldiers walking past two dead bodies and land mines in a muddy field, before they dig up a hand grenade.

Stimson was jailed for five years and four months for terror offences in 2017, after he went to the conflict zone in the Donbass region in 2015 for four months and assisted the anti-government militia in Ukraine, the year after Russia annexed Crimea.

He reinvented himself as a self styled 'soldier of the new Russia' after he studied pro-Communist propaganda about the Ukraine conflict on the internet when his business crumbled.

While in the country, he gave an interview in which he claimed he was 'a working class man with no work' whose last job was on a zero hours contract.

He said he could not live in Britain any more and was prepared to kill someone if his life was threatened on the front line in what he said he would class as 'an act of war'.

However, Manchester Crown Court heard in 2017 that Stimson, formerly of Oldham, Greater Manchester, did not actually engage in any fighting during his time in eastern Ukraine and had intended to perform humanitarian work by driving ambulances.

But since returning to Russia on February 23, he has admitted on social media that he fought in the 2015 Battle of Debaltseve.

He wrote: 'I'm ready to go now, bags packed. I just hope the British police don't arrest me and make something up or twist things to incriminate me on something that does not exist.'

According to the Mirror, Stimson was homeless and using heroin after leaving jail last June and sold his possessions to pay for a visa and flight to Moscow.

His three-month visa to Russia runs out on May 17 and he managed to fly to Moscow from Manchester Airport, via Istanbul, despite being detained and questioned under the terrorism act.

He said the journey cost him 1,450 after 'police took me phone and laptop'.

Stimson also posted a photo of two pen drives, saying: 'Didn't find these did you? You stupid thick b******s'.

Stimson's father Martin, a former town councillor and Morris dancer, said he had now disowned his son, after he had supporting him during his 2017 court hearing.

'I've cut him off. Before I cut him off he was in Moscow,' he told the Mirror last night, adding his rogue lad was now 'on his own'.

Since returning to Russia on February 23, Stimson has admitted on social media that he fought in the 2015 Battle of Debaltseve.

Minnis's VK page shows him holding semi-automatic weapons and wearing Russian uniforms with a Donetsk insignia posing with the Irish flag.

He said: 'My family heritage is from Ireland and I have Irish family. But also an ideological thing.'

Stimson labels Minnis as his 'best British friend in the Russian army' and a 'good guy' in one of his posts, but the ex-National Front member is a former drug addict with a long criminal record.

In 2006, he admitted beating up relatives of a driver whose dangerous driving had caused the deaths of his cousin and girlfriend.

In 2008, he was jailed for four years after he carried out unprovoked racist attack on a Chippenham rugby player.

In January of that year, whilst he was being convicted for beating up a homeless man, his lawyer told the court: 'He was a member of the National Front, a class A drug addict and an alcoholic by the age of 20.'

The Foreign Enlistment Act 1870 makes it illegal to join the armed forces of a country fighting a state at peace with Britain, but anti-terror legislation is more likely to be invoked.

In 2015, Stimson pleaded guilty to a single charge of assisting others in committing terrorism acts. He was jailed for five years and four months.

The court heard how he had carried out 'extensive' research on the conflict in the summer of 2015 and among internet search entries later found on his computer were: 'Volunteer to fight in Donbass', 'Britons fighting in Donbass', and 'UK law on fighting overseas'.

Stimson flew from Manchester to Moscow via Brussels on August 8, 2015 and was transported to Donbass on his arrival through a contact he established before his journey.

In mid-October 2015, he gave an interview to BBC correspondent Tom Burridge in which his face was shielded from the camera.

He returned to the UK on November 23 2015 and was arrested at Manchester Airport on suspicion of terrorism offences.

In his luggage was found various items of military clothing including some which displayed the would-be flag of 'Novorussia', the court was told.

Stimson had a number of previous convictions for 'low level' offences such as criminal damage, theft and drugs possession.

A report from a forensic psychiatrist highlighted his 'troubled background', a dependency on drugs and alcohol and his suffering from depressive disorders.
This video is no longer available

This video is no longer available

Terrifying footage shows the moment a knifeman armed with a huge blade attacked a man on a train full of shocked passengers.

The man has been left fighting for his life in hospital after being stabbed on the train at Beckenham Junction this afternoon.

Police are still searching for the attacker and urging witnesses to come forward with information.

Horrifying video shows the attacker on top of the man with a large blade in his hand on the moving train.

One passenger can be heard screaming 'f****** stop it now' before calling police to report the incident.

The witness then says: 'I'm on the train to Beckenham Junction and this man's stabbing someone on the train.'

Were YOU on the train? Email katherine.lawton@mailonline.co.uk

Footage shows the attacker on top of the man with a large blade in his hand on a moving train

A large blade is seen in the hand of the attacker while he stands on top of the man

The attacker appears to be seen walking along the street with a large blade in his hand

Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward after the man was seriously injured at Beckenham Junction today

Police attend the scene at Beckenham Junction this afternoon following the stabbing

The British Transport Police said in a statement: 'Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a man was seriously injured at Beckenham Junction today.

'At around 3.56pm today (27 March), we received reports of two men fighting while entering a train at Shortlands (railway station). A man sustained serious injuries consistent with being stabbed.

'Officers attended, alongside colleagues from the Metropolitan Police Service and the London Ambulance Service, and the victim was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

'Enquiries are ongoing and there have been no arrests so far.

'British Transport Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident to contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 397 of 27/03/2024.

An air ambulance arriving at the station after the stabbing this afternoon

Rubbish is seen at the scene after the stabbing this afternoon, which left a man seriously injured

The incident happened at Beckenham Junction (pictured) this afternoon

Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a man was seriously injured at Beckenham Junction

'Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.'

A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'We were called today (Wednesday) at 3.58pm to reports of an incident at Beckenham Junction Station.

'We sent resources to the scene including ambulance crews, an incident response officer and London's air ambulance.

'We treated a man at the scene before taking him to a London major trauma centre.'

Were YOU on the train? Email katherine.lawton@mailonline.co.uk
Southwest Airlines will be introducing a new overnight flight option for their customers in the near future.

The airline's chief commercial officer Ryan Green announced at Routes America on March 20 that Southwest is planning to launch their first ever red-eye flights.

Green revealed during the air travel conference that Southwest does not have a specific start date but that they are 'working on it.'

The CCO also told attendees that he believes the overnight flights could start two years from now, and that they might work well in Las Vegas and Hawaii.

'There's some technology to work through, there's some labor agreement stuff to work through,' said Green.

Southwest Airlines chief commercial officer (CCO) Ryan Green announced at Routes American on March 20 that the company will be launching overnight flights out of Las Vegas and Hawaii

Green revealed at the conference that Southwest does not have an official date of when the red-eyes will start but that he believes it will begin by 2026

At the conference, he spoke highly about launching the overnight flights in Las Vegas and Hawaii, but he did not mention where else Southwest is looking to start doing overnight hauls.

The Texas-based airline was founded by Herb Kelleher and Rollin King in 1967.

'The biggest thing that makes us "us" is our people, and the unique and unrivaled hospitality they deliver,' Southwest's CEO Bob Jordan.

'No one has a heart for service like the people of Southwest Airlines, No one.'

The company also has the largest Boeing fleet in the world and has been the launch for each new generation of Boeing's 737-series aircrafts for more than 30 years.

Southwest Airline flights are currently being offered at more than 120 airports across 11 countries.

According to OAG Schedules Analyser via Aviation Airline, Southwest operated 1,732 weekly flights to Las Vegas and 604 to Hawaii for the week that ended on March 25.

'I think Vegas is going to be a place where we can do some red-eye flying, use the aircraftsweat those assets a little bit harder...,' Green said during the conference.

'But Vegas is one of those markets that I think will fit in nicely with red-eyes.'

Green added that he also believes that the red-eyes would 'definitely be a benefit' for the Southwest Airline flights in Hawaii.

The CCO spoke highly about the overnight flight launch in Las Vegas and Hawaii and did not discuss any other locations where they will offer red-eyes

The plans for the overnight flight will be partially determined by the technology being worked through and working out labor agreements

The announcement of Southwest's future overnight flights came just over a year after the airline canceled nearly 17,000 flights in December 2022.

A settlement for the issue was reached in December 2023 and the airline was forced to pay more than $140 million in damages.

Southwest also announced earlier this month that the airline would have to trim its capacity plans due to the delivery delays from Boeing.

'Boeing needs to become a better company and the deliveries will follow that,' Jordan said at a JPMorgan industry conference earlier this month.

The airline will continue operating Boeing aircrafts but the company is making modifications to all of their planes.

The Texas based airline was founded by Herb Kelleher and Rollin King in 1967 and currently has the largest Boeing fleet in the world

A settlement was reached last year between Southwest and the government after the airline canceled nearly 17,000 flights in December 2022

Green discussed the upcoming makeovers of all of the Southwest Airlines aircrafts.

The airline first announced the plan for new seat and cabin designs on February 2.

'Southwest flies above our competition with industry-leading flexibility and our legendary Hospitality,' said chief customer officer Tony Roach in a statement.

'Our redesigned cabin interior significantly enhances our inflight Customer experience and will complement the amazing service that our Crews provide.'

According to Green, all of the aircraft modifications are currently being worked on and new Recaro seating will be installed in all of Southwest's planes by the end of this year.
The Labour-run Welsh government has been accused of 'hypocrisy' after it was revealed that ministers had been driven hundreds of miles by chauffeurs despite new laws restricting drivers.

Former First Minister Mark Drakeford and his cabinet racked up a whopping 278,969 miles using the government's taxpayer-funded official car service since 2022/23, equivalent to travelling the length of Wales more than 2,000 times.

The eye-watering figures come amid the Labour administration's 'war on motorists' which has seen a number of controversial policies targeting drivers.

Wales became the first UK nation to decrease its default speed limit to 20mph last year, with fines handed out from January.

The government's climate change department has also overseen a ban on any new roads being built and ruled out building an M4 relief road to cut down congestion in Newport despite spending millions of pounds on consultations over several years.

Former First Minister Mark Drakeford and his cabinet racked up a whopping 278,969 miles using the government's taxpayer-funded official car service since 2022/23, equivalent to travelling the length of Wales 11 times

The figures come just days after Mr Drakeford was replaced as First Minister by Vaughan Gething (pictured)

The eye-watering figures come amid the Labour administration's 'war on motorists' which has seen a number of controversial policies targeting drivers. Wales became the first UK nation to decrease its default speed limit to 20mph last year, with fines handed out from January

The Labour-run Welsh government has been accused of 'hypocrisy' after the statistics were released (pictured: a 20mph sign in Gowerton near Swansea)

Revealing the mileage numbers, Conservative Senedd member Janet Finch-Saunders said the Welsh government should be 'leading by example' as they encourage the public to 'join the green revolution'.

READ MORE: Labour minister responsible for Wales's hated 20mph speed limits announces he is standing down and deleting his Twitter account after suffering online abuse Advertisement

She added: 'This revelation undermines Labour's green credentials and their hypocrisy is plain to see.

'It is beyond belief that Labour ministers are preaching to the public to ditch private cars and take up public transport, while at the same time living the life of luxury being ferried around in chauffeur-driven gas-guzzling cars.'

Shadow transport minister Natasha Asghar said: 'Once again there appears to be one rule for the public and a different rule for Labour ministers.'

She added that Welsh Labour had launched 'a war on motorists' while 'racking up the mileage in their ministerial chauffeur-driven cars'.

A Welsh Government spokesman said: 'While ministers will always seek to take alternative means of transport where possible, it is sometimes necessary to travel by car to attend official government engagements.

'In addition to security considerations, ministers will continue to work if travelling by car, including participating in virtual meetings and calls, which are often confidential in nature.

'The decarbonisation of the car fleet is ongoing, balanced by the need to avoid excessive cost to the taxpayer.

'Seven diesel cars have already been replaced with three all-electric cars and four hybrid vehicles.

Shadow transport minister Natasha Asghar said: 'Once again there appears to be one rule for the public and a different rule for Labour ministers'

New 20mph signs have been vandalised across the country, including this one on Sloper Road on September 23 2023 in Cardiff, Wales

A 20mph road sign that has been defaced in Cwmbran, South Wales in October last year

The Welsh government started dishing out sanctions in January following an 'initial bedding in period' (Stock Photo)

In Wales, the enforcement of fines will only begin at 10 per cent of the speed limit plus 4mph

'A further three hybrid vehicles are on order to replace diesel vehicles.'

The figures come just days after Mr Drakeford was replaced as First Minister by Vaughan Gething.

The 50-year-old won the Welsh Labour leadership election, paving the way for him to become Wales's first black First Minister following a contest decided by Labour party members and affiliated organisations this month.
One of paedophile Gary Glitter's victims is seeking around 500,000 from the disgraced musician in damages, the High Court has heard.

The woman is suing Glitter, whose real name is Paul Gadd, following his 2015 conviction for abusing her and two other young people between 1975 and 1980.

She has previously secured a 'default judgment' in her claim - a ruling in her favour over Glitter's liability, with a judge now due to make a ruling on the level of damages the woman can receive.

At a hearing on Wednesday, the court heard the woman - who cannot be named for legal reasons - has been unable to work for several decades as a result of the abuse.

The court heard that part of her damages bid includes a claim for 20,000 per year for 40 years, covering the time she has been unable to work, although any award is likely to be reduced.

One of paedophile Gary Glitter 's victims is seeking around 500,000 from the disgraced musician in damages, the High Court has heard

The woman is suing Glitter, whose real name is Paul Gadd, following his 2015 conviction for abusing her and two other young people between 1975 and 1980

Glitter was jailed for 16 years in 2015 for sexually abusing three schoolgirls. He was automatically released from HMP The Verne, a low-security prison in Portland, Dorset, in February last year after serving half of his fixed-term determinate sentence (pictured after his initial release)

Jonathan Metzer, for the woman, said Glitter's abuse had a 'dramatic and terrible impact' on her education, work and personal relationships.

He told the High Court in London: 'One can only begin to imagine the profound pain felt by someone who has experienced such shocking abuse... then suffered from feelings of shame and worthlessness.'

The barrister said his client was 'plagued by thoughts of self-blame', adding that her mother was a fan of Glitter's music.

Mr Metzer said: 'You may have concluded that his status as a rock star created a substantial imbalance of power that he exploited.

'There was an abuse of trust... her mother was beguiled by the defendant.'

Glitter did not attend Wednesday's hearing, nor was he represented by a lawyer, with the court told he had not so far engaged with the civil case.

Mrs Justice Tipples said she would give her decision in early May.

She said: 'In terms of the maths, the claim is made for 40 years... in terms of reflecting time out of the labour market.'

Glitter's fall from grace began in the late 1990s when he was convicted for possessing thousands of child abuse images and was jailed for four months in 1999. Pictured: Performing in 1974

Gary Glitter in 2007 in Vietnam, where he spent three years in prison for child abuse charges

Glitter was put back behind bars less than six weeks after walking free last year when police monitoring showed he had breached his licence conditions by reportedly trying to access the dark web and viewing downloaded images of children

Pictured: HMP The Verne in Portland, Dorset, where Glitter is serving his prison sentence

The judge added: 'The principle is not the issue, the issue is assessing it.'

'This is a large amount of money that you are asking for,' Mrs Justice Tipples said.

Glitter was jailed for 16 years in 2015 for sexually abusing three schoolgirls. His sentence expires in February 2031.

He was automatically released from HMP The Verne, a low-security prison in Portland, Dorset, in February last year after serving half of his fixed-term determinate sentence.

Glitter was put back behind bars less than six weeks after walking free when police monitoring showed he had breached his licence conditions by reportedly trying to access the dark web and viewing downloaded images of children.

The court heard Glitter is now back at HMP The Verne, after being housed at HMP Risley during his recent failed parole bid.

The offences for which he was jailed in 2015 came to light as part of Operation Yewtree, the Metropolitan Police investigation launched in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a reversal, is planning to send two top Israeli officials to Washington as early as next week for talks about a possible invasion of Rafah.

Netanyahu called off the planned visit after the U.S. allowed passage of a Gaza ceasefire resolution at the United Nations, a sign of worsening tensions between Tel Aviv and President Joe Biden's administration.

'The prime minister's office has agreed, has agreed, to reschedule the meeting dedicated to Rafah,' White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at Wednesday's press briefing.

'We're now working with them to sit to find a convenient date that's obviously going to work for both sides but his office has agreed to to reschedule that meeting that would be dedicated to Rafah, which is a good thing.'

A Palestinian boy walks on the site of an Israeli strike, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Rafah

The meeting could happen as early as next week but the White House said it could not yet confirm a date. Israeli strategic affairs minister Ron Dermer and national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi are the officials likely to attend.

'We remain hopeful that we can break we can broker a deal to secure the release of hostages and establish a temporary ceasefire. This is something that we've been asking for some time,' Jean-Pierre said.

When Netanyahu originally cancelled the meeting, the White House brought up Rafah with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who was already in Washington. Gallant met with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Secretary of State Antony Wills, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

'I think the defense minister being here from Israel was really important for two days having those all important or critical conversations,' Jean-Pierre said.

After the U.S. chose to abstain - instead of veto - a UN resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, Netanyahu accused Washington DC of 'retreating' from a 'principled position' with its vote.

American officials said the U.S. abstained because the resolution didn't condemn Hamas. By abstaining instead of vetoing, the U.S. allowed the resolution to pass.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu , in a reversal, is planning to send two top Israeli officials to Washington as early as next week for talks about a possible invasion of Rafah

Smoke billows over buildings following Israeli bombardment in Rafah

In the aftermath, the White House said it was 'perplexed' as to why Netanyahu had canceled the meeting.

'We're perplexed by this,' White House spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Monday.

Kirby said that America's vote 'does not represent a shift in our policy.'

'We've been very consistent in our support for a ceasefire as part of a hostage deal,' he said. 'But because the final text does not have key language that we think is essential, such as condemning Hamas, we couldn't support it.'

'It seems like the prime minister's office is choosing to create a perception of daylight here when they don't need to do that,' Kirby noted.

After the UN vote Netanyahu decried America's decision as 'a retreat from the consistent American position since the beginning of the war,' and said the U.S. abstention 'harms the war effort as well as the effort to liberate the hostages.'

He noted he wasn't sending an Israeli delegation to Washington to hold high-level talks with U.S. officials on a planned operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah - a rebuke to President Joe Biden, who had asked for the meetings.

The Israeli Prime Minister later said his decision to cancel the meeting was meant to deliver a message to Hamas that international pressure against Israel will not prompt it to end the war without concessions from the militant group, an apparent attempt to smooth over the clash between the allies.

Now the meeting is back on. Jean-Pierre said it was 'urgent' to lock in a date. The Biden administration has warned Israel against a ground invasion of Rafah, which is overflowing with refugees. Israel has so far rejected American appeals to call off the planned operation.

The UN resolution is non-binding and the world governing body has no way to enforce it.

A Palestinian injured in an Israeli airstrike arrives at Kuwait Hospital for treatment

Humanitarian aid falls through the sky toward the Gaza Strip

The United Nation's 15-member Security Council approved the ceasefire resolution 14-0 after the U.S. decided not to use its veto power on the measure, which also demanded the release of all hostages taken captive during Hamas Oct. 7 surprise attack in southern Israel.

The chamber broke into loud applause after the vote.

The U.S. vetoed past Security Council ceasefire resolutions in large part because of the failure to tie them directly to the release of hostages, the failure to condemn Hamas' attacks and the delicacy of ongoing negotiations.

American officials have argued that the ceasefire and hostage releases are linked, while Russia, China and many other council members favored unconditional calls for ceasefires.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (right) arrives to the U.S. State Department to meet with Secretary of State Blinken

The U.S. decision to abstain comes at a time of growing tensions between President Joe Biden's administration and Netanyahu over Israels prosecution of the war, the high number of civilian casualties and the limited amounts of humanitarian assistance reaching Gaza.

The two countries have also clashed over Netanyahus rejection of a Palestinian state, Jewish settler violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and the expansion of settlements there.

In addition, the well-known antagonism between Netanyahu and Biden - which dates from Bidens tenure as vice president - deepened after Biden questioned Israels strategy in combating Hamas.

Then Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Biden ally, suggested that Netanyahu was not operating in Israels best interests and called for Israel to hold new elections. Biden signaled his approval of Schumers remarks, prompting a rebuke from Netanyahu.

During its U.S. visit, the Israeli delegation was to present White House officials with its plans for a possible ground invasion of Rafah, a city on the Egyptian border in southern Gaza where over 1 million Palestinian civilians have sought shelter from the war.

More than 32,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed during the fighting, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

Gaza also faces a dire humanitarian emergency, with a report from an international authority on hunger warning March 18 that 'famine is imminent' in northern Gaza and that escalation of the war could push half of the territorys 2.3 million people to the brink of starvation.
Daniel Figueroa IV is an award-winning multimedia journalist and the Associate Editor for CT Insiders Trending and Features team.

Daniel joined Hearst in 2022 as a trending reporter covering arts and culture in the Nutmeg State, touching on the history of neighborhoods through the lens of local photographers and local food; issues facing the states LGBTQ+ community and extensive reporting on the states rental industry. He documented Connecticuts famous Warren family, made famous by the Conjuring and Annabelle films, through both written word and video. He also facilitated the reunion of actors Chris and Susan Sarandon 45 years after their divorce, ahead of their first live appearance in decades.

Hes originally from the Bronx, but spent one-third of his life in Florida, where he wrote about everything from politics to Disney and traced the steps of cultural icons like Jack Kerouac. He once nearly sent himself to the hospital after eating the worlds spiciest ice cream  for journalism. He covered cops, veterans and politics at the Ledger of Lakeland before becoming a reporter and digital producer for the Tampa Bay Times, where he helped launch newsletter and flash news brief programs.

He was also a radio reporter and anchor for 88.5 WMNF Community Radio in Tampa where he spent time covering heated protests and social unrest following the police murder of George Floyd, contamination at the Piney Point phosphate plant and the 2020 election cycle, before becoming the Tampa and St. Petersburg reporter for online political magazine Florida Politics.

When hes not searching for stories to tell, Daniel can be found in a book, on a motorcycle, playing drums or dreaming of galaxies far, far away.






The members note how the agency wants $42 million for rent despite the headquarters operating at 10 percent capacity

House Committee on Small Business Chair Roger Williams and seven other GOP members sent the letter to SBA Administrator Isabella Guzman

Republicans sent a letter to the Small Business Administration chief demanding answers about why the agency's headquarters is void of workers

Republicans are demanding the Small Business Administration turn over information on the agency's work-from-home policies after discovering the multi-million dollar headquarters are still nearly empty.

In December, a bombshell report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that no federal agency had over 50 percent occupancy between January and March 2023.

And many agencies like Housing and Urban Development, the Social Security Administration and the Small Business Administration (SBA) all had 10 percent utilization or less.

'Nearly a year after the Biden Administration ended the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, the SBA is still not back to work,' a group of Republicans led by House Committee on Small Business Chair Roger Williams, R-Texas, wrote in the letter to SBA Administrator Isabella Guzman.

The Small Business Administration headquarters is operating at 10 percent of capacity as many federal workers enjoy lavish telework policies

House Committee on Small Business Chair Roger Williams sent a letter to the SBA's chief to find out why the agency is requesting $42 million for rent when the office remains dormant

'Data from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) indicates that the SBA's headquarters is operating at a mere 10 percent capacity.'

'We are still concerned with the SBAs extreme work from home policies and what that entails for Americas 33 million small businesses.'

The letter requests she provide documents and communications regarding the agency's telework policies and office occupancy.

It was signed by Reps. Mark Alford, R-Mo., Blaine Luetkemeyer, R-Mo., Dan Meuser, R-Pa., Pete Stauber, R-Minn., Beth Van Duyne, R-Texas, Jake Ellzey, R-Texas, and Aaron Bean, R-Fla.

The lawmakers argue that many American small businesses do not have the opportunity to work remotely and the agency should act similarly.

'The SBA is tasked with one purpose  to help Main Street,' Williams said in a statement Wednesday.

'Its difficult to do that effectively when youre working from home and are more focused on making sure your laundry is washed and folded rather than ensuring the needs of our entrepreneurs are met.'

'Our small business owners dont have the luxury to work from home, and the SBA should be marching to the same tune,' he continued.

The Republicans expressed concern over the agency's request for $42 million allocation for rent despite the headquarters being void of employees.

'Administrator Guzman owes the public an explanation why she is requesting $42,000,000 for a nearly empty building,' Alford said in a statement Wednesday.

SBA Administrator Isabella Guzman has testified that the SBA has '50 percent occupancy on any given day' but lawmakers say that is 'dramatically' different that what the GAO has said

The lawmakers also wrote that leaving the multimillion dollar building vacant most if the time is 'unacceptable' and 'a waste of taxpayer' money.

According to the SBA, employees in the capital region are currently required to work five days of the pay period in the office.

The pay period, however, is just 10 days, so the current requirement is that employees must work in-office just 50 percent of the time.

In December, members of the House Committee on Small Business toured the SBA headquarters and found 'rows and rows of empty desks,' the letter states.

The lawmakers requested Guzman provide them materials on the SBA's office utilization before April 10.
A nurse accused of killing a seven-year-old boy at Britains biggest private childrens hospital may not be tried until November 2025 - over nine years after the child died.

James Dwerryhouse suffered a catastrophic brain injury at the Portland Hospital when his sleeping equipment was allegedly shut down for nearly three hours without a doctors permission in 2016.

Anuradha Bhupathiraju, 63, was accused of causing James's death by leaving his monitor turned off without a doctor's permission and was not charged with manslaughter by gross negligence until March last year.

She did not appear in court today as the judge agreed delays which meant there was no prospect of the trial going ahead on the fixed date of June 4 this year.

The case will hinge on medical reports of James and several have not been completed.

Bhupathirajus lawyers want reports from seven different experts - but as yet none have been filed.

The earliest possible date for the trial would be April of next year - but prosecutor Andrew Thomas told the court he would not be available until November.

James Dwerryhouse, 7, (pictured) died after his monitor was turned off at Portland Hospital in London

James' father John (left) told an inquest his son was energetic and playing with his Playmobil figures after coming round from surgery (John Dwerryhouse pictured with his Marguerite)

James parents John and Marguerite Dwerryhouse were in court to hear events unfold.

The youngster, who had Downs Syndrome, was admitted to the hospital for a routine bowel operation to treat a condition that meant he still had to wear a nappy.

Because he suffered from sleep apnoea, which can cause life-threatening breathing stoppages, he was connected to equipment that alerted doctors to any deterioration in his breathing as he slept.

He also had a number of other conditions including mild hearing loss, poor eyesight and epilepsy.

James was found unresponsive by night staff at around 4am on 26 August 2016. He was transferred to the Treehouse Hospice in his hometown Ipswich, where he died on August 28.

His father John told an inquest in 2017 that after coming round from surgery on the morning of 25 August, 2016, his son was energetic and sitting in his bed playing with his Playmobil figures.

Mr Dwerryhouse said he received a call at around 4.20am to say that James wasnt well and that he and his wife Marguerite needed to attend the hospital immediately.

When they arrived, James eyes were half closed, he was covered in a rash and his dilated pupils indicated he was brain dead.

James Dwerryhouse, 7, (pictured) died of a brain injury as a result of sleep apnoea following surgery on the morning of August 25, 2016

Anuradha Bhupathiraju, 62, a nurse at Portland Hospital, is charged with manslaughter by gross negligence

Bhupathiraju, of Wynter Street, Wandsworth, remains on conditional bail.

As a condition of bail she is prohibited from leaving the UK, must surrender her passport to the police and not apply for any international travel documents.

James had attended Thomas Wolsey School and was a member of the Ipswich Rainbow Cubs.

Speaking after the inquest into their sons death James parents described him as a ray of sunshine who lived every day to the full.

The Common Sergeant of London, Judge Richard Marks said a wait until November would be unconscionable and asked the lawyers to try and find an earlier date.

He fixed a pre-trial review hearing for July 19.
Violence against rail workers has reached a four-year high with staff alleging they are spat at, punched and attacked every day, it has emerged.

Body camera footage shows how furious travellers have physically assaulted rail enforcement officers during foul-mouthed tirades at stations and on platforms.

Officers have been forced to detain passengers after being 'touched' and attacked.

There were more than 4,000 attacks against rail workers at stations across England, Scotland and Wales recorded by police in 2023, a Freedom of Information request by BBC has revealed.

Police recorded nearly 10 per cent more assaults last year than before the pandemic in 2019, despite there being an 11 per cent reduction in rail passengers.

Body camera footage shows how furious travellers have physically assaulted rail enforcement officers during foul-mouthed tirades at stations and on platforms

Officers have been forced to detain passengers after being 'touched' and attacked, as seen in the body camera footage here

Southeastern reported 438 violent incidents last year, which was the highest number of all train providers, according to BBC.

The rail provider has reportedly partnered with Network Rail and the British Transport Police (BTP) in a bid to prevent trespassing, antisocial behaviour and assaults against staff.

Workers can now report incidents of violence and aggression on a designated app. Footage recorded on body worn cameras has also led to numerous convictions, police revealed.

Southeastern said the number of recorded assaults may have risen due to better reporting by staff.

Rail enforcement officer (REO) Adam Huntley, who has worked with Southeastern for almost eight years, told the broadcaster that violence against staff has 'completely ramped up' and that travellers 'believe that we have no powers to do anything'.

'I've been sworn at, spat at, I've been punched, at multiple stations from Rainham to Gravesend,' he said.

His colleague Caroline Lamb, who has worked on the railway for 28 years, added that she believes the increase in violence is correlated with the fact that penalty fares for those without a ticket have risen from 20 to 100.

There were more than 4,000 attacks against rail workers at stations across England, Scotland and Wales recorded by police in 2023, a Freedom of Information request by BBC has revealed. Police said footage recorded on body worn cameras has also led to numerous convictions

REOs have the authority to detain or remove travellers who violate railway rules. This includes, but is not limited to, being drunk or failing to produce a ticket.

A British Transport Police (BTP) spokesperson told MailOnline that it takes attacks against rail staff 'extremely seriously' and that violence would 'not be tolerated under any circumstance'.

Det Supt Brett Walker said: 'No person on the rail network should ever be subjected to violence or abuse, especially rail staff who are simply doing their job. We take assaults towards members of rail staff extremely seriously and it will not be tolerated on the network under any circumstance.

'We continue to work closely with rail companies to tackle offences and we will explore all investigative avenues to identify and prosecute offenders. This includes encouraging staff to report incidents to us and supporting the introduction of body worn cameras for frontline rail staff.

'We know from experience that body worn video is a fantastic tool that not only record incidents, which we can then use to secure convictions, but also acts as a deterrent in the first instance, helping to de-escalate situations.

'We encourage passengers who experience or witnesses any crime onboard a train or at a station to report it to us by texting 61016, calling 0800 40 50 40 or via the free Railway Guardian app. Always call 999 in an emergency.'

MailOnline has approached Southeastern Rail for comment.
King Charles appeared cheerful and chipper today as he carried on in his 'business as usual' outlook amid his battle with cancer.

The monarch, 75, smiled as he met Mohamed Nasheed, 56, Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday.

The Royal Family has been rocked by health worries in the past few weeks as it was revealed both the King and the Princess of Wales are battling cancer.

The King was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer following hospital treatment for an enlarged prostate earlier this year, which was unrelated.

Kate Middleton revealed she has been diagnosed with cancer in an unprecedented video address last week.

King Charles, 75, smiled as he met Mohamed Nasheed, 56, Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday

King Charles appeared cheerful and chipper today as carried on in his 'business as usual' outlook amid his battle with cancer

King Charles met Mr Nasheed in the 1844 room at Buckingham Palace, which is on the ground floor

After she revealed the news, a source said it had been 'an incredibly tough couple of months for the entire family'.

At the time, Charles said he was 'so proud' of the Princess of Wales 'for her courage' in revealing her cancer diagnosis and remained in the 'closest contact' with her.

Sharing Charles's reaction to the shocking news, Buckingham Palace said: 'His Majesty is ''so proud of Catherine for her courage in speaking as she did''.

'Following their time in hospital together, HM has ''remained in the closest contact with his beloved daughter-in-law throughout the past weeks''.

'Both Their Majesties ''will continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time''.'

King Charles was treated in the same hospital as the Princess of Wales, who underwent abdominal surgery for an unknown condition in January.

Although it has been a tumultuous few weeks for the Royal family, Charles has adopted a 'business as usual' approach as he battles the disease.

Mr Nasheed is a climate change and human rights activist who was the first democratically elected president of the Maldives

The Royal Family has been rocked by health worries in the past few weeks as it was revealed both the King and the Princess of Wales are battling cancer

Sitting on a bench at Windsor, surrounded by spring flowers, the Princess of Wales last week took the extraordinary step of revealing to the world that she has cancer

The King's meeting today came as Queen Camilla met well-wishers during a visit to Shrewsbury, Shropshire, on Wednesday

Charles is a workaholic who famously packs in ten to 12 engagements and meetings a day and spends many a night alone in his study, furiously writing letters and keeping up with his paperwork, well into the early hours. His wife knows he won't change, and nor would she want him to.

Despite being told by his doctors to cancel his public engagements ahead of his surgery, the King has insisted on keeping up with his paperwork and holding meetings.

On Wednesday, Charles had an audience with Mr Nasheed, who has won numerous awards for his work on environmental protection and the fight against climate change.

Mr Nasheed was also the first democratically elected president of the Maldives when he took power in 20087 after a campaign of nonviolent civil disobedience against dictator Maumoon Gayoom.

Throughout his life he has been arrested and tortured for his views and actions, which has led some to call him the 'Mandela of the Maldives'.

Mr Nasheed (pictured in 2019) survived years of torture and even an assassination attempt in 2021

Police in the Maldives secure a site after a bomb injured former Maldives president Mr Nasheed in Male on May 6, 2021

He is also an outspoken critic of religious extremism in the predominantly Sunni Muslim nation where preaching and practicing other faiths are banned by law.

Four years into his presidency, he resigned after forces loyal to Gayoom staged a coup d'etat in 2012.

READ MORE: Queen Camilla comforts woman who lost her husband to cancer even as husband Charles battles the disease Advertisement

In 2015, he was sentenced to 13 years in prison for 'terrorism' in a trial condemned by many Western leaders.

Amnesty International said his conviction was 'politically motivated'.

In 2016, he was granted asylum in Britain after travelling there for medical treatment.

After his conviction was overturned in 2018, he returned to the Maldives and was elected to their parliament, becoming the Speaker.

He also survived an assassination attempt in 2021 that saw an IED filled with ball bearings set off near his home.

The pro-democracy pioneer was about to get into his car in the congested capital when a bomb rigged to a motorcycle was detonated, officials said at the time.

King Charles met Mr Nasheed in the 1844 room at Buckingham Palace, which is on the ground floor.

Elsewhere today, during a visit to an 18th century mill, Queen Camilla comforted a woman who lost her husband to cancer.

She also thanked the many volunteers who passed on their best wishes for the King and the Princess of Wales.
A Washington fire chief is facing a murder charge after allegedly strangling his wife and making her death look like a seizure to cover up an affair he was having.

Kevin West, 49, was arrested last week over two months after he allegedly strangled his wife Marcelle 'Marcy' West to death in their home in Washougal in January.

KGW reported that West told investigators that his wife had a seizure and had stopped breathing, paramedics arrived but she later died.

Following her death, the Clark County Sheriff's Office said several people were concerned about their relationship and informed police.

A criminal investigation into her death was launched after an autopsy showed indications that she had suffered trauma to the neck.

Kevin West, 49, was arrested last week over two months after he allegedly strangled his wife Marcelle 'Marcy' West in their home

Marcy and Kevin West are seen here with their children.

On March 20, the medical examiner determined that she had died from asphyxia with blunt trauma to the neck and ruled her death a homicide.

In court on Monday, prosecutors said that there was indication that West had deleted messages from a woman he was having an affair with, Cynthia Ward.

Prosecuting Attorney Jessica Smith said West had planned to end his relationship with his wife and move out of their home on the day she died.

It was also revealed that detectives had uncovered financial problems between the two, including being in around $100,000 of debt.

According to a probable cause affidavit seen by the outlet, West said to investigators after they learned of the affair that 'there's no way' he would ever leave his wife.

He said that 'Marcy and I had too much together', and that he had no intention of continuing his affair if something happened to his wife.

Brian Walker, his attorney, told the court: 'When he was later asked about (the name of the other woman) he fully admitted he had had this affair.

'He wasn't hiding it. He was just never asked about it and was not eager to talk about it.'

West appeared virtually for his arraignment with a judge setting a $1.5 million bail for the father-of-two.

A search of the home found love letters addressed to Ward, one read: 'Next year, 2024 will be our year.

In court on Monday, West appeared virtually for his arraignment with a judge setting a $1.5 million bail for the father-of-two

West allegedly killed his wife Marcelle in their Washougal home in January, seen here

'We will be together celebrating everyday with love and understanding of what it means for you and I to be together. Our Story will ring in the New Year loud for all to hear!'

The outlet reported that another said: 'There have been so many special memories we have shared in such a short period of time.

'Just imagine what memories we will create having each other everyday! You and I were seamlessly created for each other. I want you more and more everyday, I love you more and more everyday.'

Using a search warrant, investigators seized the phones of West and his wife with his phone showing attempts to delete her number and text messages from her.

Recovered messages show that West had spoken to his divorce lawyer and had told his girlfriend's brother-in-law that: 'I'm moving out on Monday. Papers done Tuesday.'

Investigators also said that he text his lovers mom saying: 'I'm meeting my attorney on the 9th and I will have options to decide from and Im very excited.

'I will also be moving out on the 8th. Next week will be a big week for (she) and I to celebrate. I love you.'

West was the Battalion Chief of the Camas-Washougal Fire Department and earned $160,000 a year according to Oregon Live.
Pro-Palestine protestors have be seen storming a Tesco store in London yelling into megaphones 'your profits are covered in Palestinian blood' whilst confused shoppers look on.

Mobile phone footage shows activists storming the supermarket in Upton Park calling for people to 'boycott Tesco' as they march up and down the shop's aisles.

Shocked customers and helpless staff members watch on as the group make their way to the tills, where they can also be heard shouting 'free Palestine'.

One protestor, wearing all black and draped in a Palestinian flag, can be seen with two megaphones strapped above his head with a sign that reads: 'Stop killing children.'

The protest on March 17 was one of many to happen across the UK while Israel continues to attack Gaza following Hamas's October 7 attacks on Israel.

Palestine protests go into a Tesco in Upton park..



Women on the megaphone: says your profile is covered in Palestine blood pic.twitter.com/7vKo9mDLpJ  London & UK Street News (@CrimeLdn) March 27, 2024

Mobile phone footage shows activists storming the supermarket in Upton Park this afternoon

Shocked customers and helpless staff members watch on as the group make their way to the tills, where they can also be heard shouting 'free Palestine'.

This is not the first UK Tesco store to be swarmed with pro-Palestine protestors in recent months, as the company has previously been criticised by campaigners for stocking products made in Israel.

Some shops and businesses in the UK have chosen to stop selling goods with links to Israel due to the conflict in the Middle East.

Last month, social media footage showed a large group of people holding signs and Palestinian flags in a Tesco supermarket aisle shouting 'you have blood on your hands' as they held banners calling for a 'boycott'.

Both incidents came after Pro-Palestine activists stuck spoof 'apartheid' pricing labels by pots of Israeli hummus in British supermarkets including Tesco in December, saying customers buying the dip are 'supporting genocide'.

One protestor, wearing all black and draped in a Palestinian flag, can be seen with two megaphones strapped above his head with a sign that reads: 'Stop killing children'

The group call for people to 'boycott Tesco' as they march up and down the shop's aisles

Images shared to social media showed Sabra hummus being sold with a fake label reading: 'Apartheid Hummus. Buying this product helps support genocide. Since 19.48 Search BDS for more info.'

Following today's protest, one social media user took to X to comment: 'Cringe and doesnt help anyone', another said: 'I see a lot of pissed off customers.'

MailOnline has contacted Tesco for comment.
Diller, a three-year veteran of the NYPD, was believed to be shot and killed by a suspect Guy Rivera during a routine traffic stop.

Former president Donald Trump plans to attend Thursday the wake of Jonathan Diller, a New York Police Department officer who was killed during a traffic stop.

An NYPD spokesperson confirmed rumors that Trump was planning to attend the wake Thursday at the Massapequa Funeral Home in New York.

Diller, a three-year veteran of the NYPD, was believed to be shot and killed by a suspect Guy Rivera after he and another man were stopped for illegally parking at a bus stop. He leaves behind a wife and infant son.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump plans to attend the wake of

Diller and another officer approached the vehicle ordering Rivera and another man to get out. Rivera reportedly refused, creating a scuffle after the other passenger opened the door to comply with the officer's orders.

Rivera then allegedly fired his gun, the bullet striking Diller in the torso underneath his bulletproof vest. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition but ultimately died in the hospital. Rivera has 21 prior arrests, including nine felonies.

Trump has a long history of honoring the NYPD and police officers, even endorsing the death penalty for criminals convicted of killing law enforcement officials.

'In my administration, we strongly believe that criminals who murder cops should get the death penalty,' he said in 2019 during the Major County Sheriffs and Major Cities Chiefs Association Joint Conference in Washington, D.C.

An officer of the 101 closes his eyes and touches the photograph of slain NYPD officer Jonathan Diller.

Officers from NYPD's Community Response Team that Officer Jonathan Diller was a member of arrive outside the Chief Medical Examiner's office on E. 30th Street for the dignified transfer of Officer Diller

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Diller's death was one more 'painful reminder of the toll of gun violence'

The White House reacted to the death of Diller during the daily press briefing on Wednesday, when asked by reporters about the incident.

'Our hearts go out to this officer who tragically lost his life in the line of duty,' press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. 'We're also praying for his family during this difficult time, who now has an empty seat at their dinner table.'

She added that Diller's death was 'another painful reminder of the toll of gun violence.'

President Biden will also be in New York on Thursday for a high-dollar fundraiser in Manhattan with former President Barack Obama and former President Bill Clinton.
Harrowing video footage captured the moment a 15-year-old student was pummeled by her classmates at a school in Brazil.

The girl, whose name has been withheld, appeared in one of the videos talking to a female student at the Maria Mathilde Castein Castilho State School in Glicerio, Sao Paulo, on Tuesday.

The student could be seen grabbing her by the hair and forcing her to walk down the hallway before a second student joined her in the assault and ripped off the victim's shirt.

The girl who initiated the beating was seen in a second video dragging the defenseless student into a packed school yard and beating her before school staff broke up the fight.

A 15-year-old (center), who doctors believe may have autism, was savagely beaten by two students at the Maria Matilde Castein Castilho State School in the southeastern Brazilian city of Glicerio on Tuesday

Marcia Rocha saw her 15-year-old daughter being beaten by two students at the school and forced her way inside moments after the staff was able to stop the fight. She revealed doctors suspect her daughter may have autism

Her mother, Marcia Rocha, witnessed the part of the beating, which lasted nearly two minutes, after she arrived to pick up her up at dismissal.

'My daughter was naked in front of everyone. And seeing that scene hurt, but I couldn't do anything,' she told TV Tem. 'I felt helpless, I couldn't save my daughter.'

Rocha said she forced her way inside the school and found her daughter crying.

The teen was taken to a local urgent care facility and treated for bruises.

Rocha's husband filed a police report and even considered seeking revenge against the bullies, according to Brazilian newspaper Metropoles.

A student tore off the young girl's (center) shirt while a second student pummeled her

School officials at the Maria Mathilde Castein Castilho State School in Glicerio, Sao Paulo, placed the three girls in remote learning as they investigate the beating of a 15-year-old girl, which was caught on camera

Rocha said that her daughter recently receiving treatment after doctors suspected she had autism.

'Last week, I didn't take it seriously, because I thought it was a teenager thing,' the concerned mother said. 'Today, when I got there, I saw the fight and, until now, I don't understand.

'I send my daughter to school with a broken heart, with scared, because she has autism and suffers persecution at school, bullying. I no longer know who to turn to,' she added.

The Birigui Education Board opened an investigation. All three students were moved to remote learning for the remainder of the week.


Humza Yousafs controversial hate crime law has been savaged by Scotlands senior police officers.

In an extraordinary broadside days ahead of its introduction, the Association of Scottish Police Superintendents (ASPS) said activists could seek to weaponise the legislation to advance their own agendas.

It fears officers will be swamped with spurious complaints and drawn into abusive spats online, taking them away from fighting more serious crime.

The intervention  highly unusual for such high-ranking officers  comes amid growing concern over the law, which will be enforced from Monday.

Last night, the Scottish Police Federation (SPF) fuelled the row by revealing that not all officers had been trained to implement the law  and some would be confused regarding what is or is not a crime under the Act.

Chief Superintendent Rob Hay, president of ASPS, has raised serious concerns about the law in a letter to Holyroods criminal justice committee

The legislation creates an offence of stirring up hatred  which previously applied only to race  and the law can be broken in private homes.

Offences are considered aggravated if they involve prejudice on the basis of age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, transgender identity or variation in sex characteristics.

In a bombshell letter to Holyroods criminal justice committee, Chief Superintendent Rob Hay, president of the ASPS, said: There is certainly enough anger and hateful bile online to occupy every police officer in Scotland.

The extent to which society will tolerate or expect the police to be drawn into adjudicating ill-tempered, abusive spats online is a matter for wider debate.

Mr Hay added: We have a concern that individuals who could be described as the activist fringe of particular viewpoints will seek to weaponise the new legislation and associated police investigation.

The ASPS is a staff association managed by serving superintendents and chief superintendents  the most senior rank below assistant chief constable.

Police Scotland has been accused of running an Orwellian catalogue of non-crime hate incidents where no law has been broken but a victim perceives a hate crime to have taken place  now likely to be the subject of a legal challenge by Tory MSP Murdo Fraser, who was blacklisted over a tweet criticising the SNP Government. It was reported to officers by a trans activist.

In his letter to MSPs, Mr Hay said: Individuals who come into contact with the police in these circumstances (where their views expressed have been offensive to some but are nonetheless non-criminal) may feel aggrieved by this process and lose trust in the police.

Further, the initial complaint may have been made in good faith, by someone who is genuinely offended but fails to understand the threshold for the criminal offence, having had high expectations of the new legislation.

When they are told that the police will be taking no further action, they may feel aggrieved by this process and lose trust in the police.

He said the ASPSs view is that Police Scotland, currently with the lowest number of police officers in over a decade, must focus on those crimes and offences that cause the most harm and represent the highest risk to public safety.

Mr Hay said public discourse on many controversial topics has descended into deeply polarised, entrenched positions, adding: This is particularly prevalent online, where proponents of opposing viewpoints often forego rational discussion and debate in favour of threats and name-calling.

He stressed that the ASPS recognises the detrimental impact that hate crimes can have in our society.

In a letter to the committee, David Kennedy, general secretary of the SPF, representing rank-and-file officers, said: Police Scotland have been pushed in a certain direction due to finances and time constraints; however, the current product falls short and we believe that it may leave officers confused regarding what is or is not a crime under the Act.

Currently Police Scotland have a two-hour online training package and although this may be a recognised training platform, its not a platform that has filled our members with confidence in the past.

Im unaware how many officers will have completed the training course but given that it began on February 5, 2024, its unlikely that all officers will have been trained prior to April 1.

Scottish Tory justice spokesman Russell Findlay said: The people of Scotland expect police officers to keep communities safe and investigate crime, not get drawn into pathetic online abuse from noisy and intolerant activists with an axe to grind.

The Scottish Conservatives would scrap this legislation and divert resources to frontline policing.

The Scottish Government said: We have worked with partners, including Police Scotland, to ensure effective implementation of the legislation and the timetable for commencement has allowed for the delivery of a robust package of training and guidance for police officers.
The man who allegedly punched TikTok creator Halley Kate in the face has been identified as Skiboky Stora, who has ran for NYC's mayor, governor, and City Council over the past three years.

Stora, 40, of East New York was charged with assault in connection to the random attack on on Kate while she was walking the streets of Chelsea, per the NYPD.

In a video that has now amassed over 44 million views, the 23-year-old TikTok star recorded herself moments after being punched in the face.

In multiple follow up videos, Kate showed her followers the large 'devil horn' sized bump on the left side of he forehead.

According to court records, Stora is expected to appear before a judge on Wednesday morning for a previous arrest. He performs as a rapper under the moniker Designer Attitude and is a regular hopeful for public office.

Skiboky Stora, 40, of East New York was charged with assault in connection to the random attack on on Kate while she was walking the streets of Chelsea

Social media influencer Halley Kate has posted a video, claiming she was punched in the face in broad daylight while walking the streets of New York City

Officers confirmed in an email that the incident occurred while Kate was walking in the vicinity of West 16 Street and 7 Avenue when the suspect allegedly hit her in the head

Kate's video prompted a number of other women to come forward about their own experienced being assaulted, specifically being punched in the face by male strangers.

Police have not confirmed whether Stora is a suspect in the other incidents.

In her most recent video addressing the situation, Kate said she is not going to let this assault define her nor stop her from living her life.

'I have lived here for six years and I haven't had anything even remotely similar to what happened to me yesterday,' she said.

'While its obviously really upsetting and disgusting that women have to deal with shit like this, I personally am not gonna revolve my life around that one incident and be afraid to walk around the streets, go to restaurants - live my life.

'I do think this serves as a good wake up call to be a little bit more aware of my surroundings, and that's not just in New York City, literally anywhere in the world.'

The social media star also did not think the suspect responsible for her assault was the common thread between the other women who got punched on TikTok.

'From listening to a lot of those girl's videos it didn't really sound like it was the same person. I think it might just be a somewhat common thing that happens in big cities,' she said.

Stora lost to Democrat Yusef Salaam in the City Council election for District 9 last year

According to court records, Stora is expected to appear before a judge on Wednesday morning for a previous arrest

'The victim fell to the ground and suffered injuries to the left side of her face [and] was treated at a local medical facility,' per the email

'I don't want it to seem like 13 girls got punched in the face yesterday, and if you come to New York City, you're for sure going to get punched in the face.'

Stora lost to Democrat Yusef Salaam in the City Council election for District 9 last year. He ran as a Freedom Party candidate but did not get a spot on the ballot.

He was either withdrawn or disqualified as the Republican candidate for governor in 2022, per Ballotpedia.
A New York City Police Department ambulance carrying the remains of Officer Jonathan Diller drives out from under Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in New York, late Monday, March 25, 2024. Diller was shot and killed during a traffic stop, Mayor Eric Adams said. Jeenah Moon/AP Firefighters salute as the ambulance transporting the body of New York City Police Officer Jonathan Diller exits Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in the Queens borough of New York, Monday, March 25, 2024. Diller was shot and killed Monday during a traffic stop. It marked the first slaying of an NYPD officer in two years. Jeenah Moon/AP This photo provided by the New York City Police Department shows a gun recovered at the scene of an officer-involved shooting on Monday, March 25, 2024, in New York. A New York City police officer was shot and killed Monday during a traffic stop in the Far Rockaway section of Queens, the city's mayor said. The officer and his partner were part of the NYPD Critical Response Team. (New York City Police Department via AP) AP

NEW YORK (AP)  Former President Donald Trump is planning to attend the wake for a New York City police officer who was fatally shot during a traffic stop this week, according to his campaign.

Trump, the 2024 presumptive Republican presidential nominee, is expected to be at a visitation Thursday on Long Island for Officer Jonathan Diller, the first New York City police officer killed in the line of duty in two years.

President Trump is moved by the invitation to join NYPD Officer Jonathan Dillers family and colleagues as they deal with his senseless and tragic death," said Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt.

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The Queens-born Republican has repeatedly raised the issue of crime in the Big Apple on the campaign trail and ahead of his own hush-money criminal trial in Manhattan. In a social media post Tuesday, he noted police said Diller's alleged shooter, Guy Rivera, had numerous prior arrests, declaring that he NEVER should have been let back out on the streets.

The news came Wednesday after a second suspect in the shooting, Lindy Jones, was arraigned on weapons charges.

Police said Jones, 41, was behind the wheel of an SUV, with Rivera in the passenger seat, that was illegally parked at a bus stop in the Far Rockaway neighborhood shortly before 6 p.m. Monday when Diller and his partner approached the vehicle.

Rivera refused Diller's orders to get out of the vehicle and shot Diller under his protective vest, according to police.

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He was given a lawful order numerous times to step out of the car," Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a news conference after the shooting. "He refused. And when the officers took him out of the car, rather than stepping out of the car, he shot our officer.

The 31-year-old Diller, who was married and had a 1-year-old son, was rushed to a hospital but could not be saved.

Diller's partner returned fire, hitting the gunman in the back, police said. Rivera remained hospitalized Wednesday and had not been formally charged.

Rivera's mother, Keshia Gilyard, told the New York Daily News that he did not trust law enforcement after serving time in prison.

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He might have thought they were trying to hurt him and something snapped," she said.

Jones was arrested after police obtained a search warrant and found a loaded 9 mm pistol in the glove compartment with the serial number scratched off, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said. He was arraigned in Queens on four illegal weapons charges.

Katz said in a news release her office will continue working around the clock to seek justice on behalf of Officer Dillers loved ones, his NYPD family and in honor of his selflessness and courage.

A message seeking comment was sent to Jones' attorney, Linda Bucher.

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Diller, who joined the police department three years ago, lived in Massapequa Park on Long Island with his wife, Stephanie, and their son, Ryan.

Mayor Eric Adams, a former police officer, called Diller's shooting devastating and said Tuesday, These are bad people doing bad things to good people. Its the good guys against the bad guys.

Diller's funeral Mass is planned for Saturday at St. Rose of Lima Roman Catholic Church in Massapequa.
An embarrassed Perth grandmother has opened up how she was tricked into handing over $10,000 in a sophisticated online scam.

Sally Marchant, 59, thought she was chatting to a Facebook friend in December. In reality, she was really talking to a scammer who had hacked her friend's account using AI.

Her 'friend' then told her about a competition where she could get $200,000 in return for an initial $10,000 payment.

Despite the scenario sounding hard to believe, Ms Marchant sent the money because she trusted her 'friend'.

'They were really encouraging saying,''Yeah do it, do it'',' Ms Marchant told Nine News.

'I really believed I was talking to my friend, messaging him.'

Sally Marchant thought she was chatting to her friend on Facebook but it was really a scammer who had hacked into his account

The Perth grandmother dipped into the mortgage on her home (pictured) to pay the scam

READ MORE: Melbourne man loses $20,000 in crafty new scam after a single real text message A customer was scammed three weeks after receiving this text which was confirmed as legitimate by his bank Advertisement

Ms Marchant dipped into her mortgage to get the $10,000.

But she then had doubts and phoned her friend who told her that they hadn't been chatting and he knew nothing about the supposed investment.

'You could spend that on so many other wonderful things. So I was cross with myself, I was quite humiliated,' Ms Marchant said.

Consumer Protection Commissioner Trish Blake said Australians should be wary of all electronic messages discussing money opportunities.

'Any message that says you could win something (even) if it's coming through from someone that says they know you, contact the person on the details that you would normally contact them on, not via the message that you've received,' she said.

One fifth of all Australian money lost to scams is fleeced via social media platforms.

The federal government says well-resourced tech giants can do more to protect users.

Nearly 3,800 people reported $15.9million in losses to scammers that started on social media platforms or online forums, according to the National Anti-Scam Centre's second quarterly update since its inception.

Australians aged over 65 were the most likely to fall victim to social media scams, which typically involve fraudsters using data from the platforms to strategically target people with sham ads.

While the quarterly report recorded progress on social media-originating scam losses from the previous period, money lost this way had soared 249 per cent since 2020.

Losses to social media scams reached $95 million in 2023 with WhatsApp accounting for 47 per cent of the losses, Facebook 20 per cent, online dating sites nine per cent, and Instagram another nine per cent.

Speaking at the Global Fraud Summit in London, Australia's Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones said the social licence of these digital firms was at risk.

Mr Jones singled out Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, as 'the elephant in the room'.

'Here's a message to Meta, in particular, which is responsible for about 80 per cent of the losses: you're not above the law.'

Social media platforms are a favourite for hackers with about 67 per cent of Australians' losses to online scams happening through Whatsapp and Facebook

The federal government has been consulting with social media players and other companies on mandatory industry codes that would require digital platforms, banks and telcos to curb scam risk or face penalties.

Mr Jones said he was 'disappointed' in Meta's response to consultations.

'These guys are the biggest technologists in the world, they employ the best information technologists, the best engineers, the best process experts in the world, they are the biggest and the best.

'Don't tell me they can't do more.'

At the global summit, world leaders recognised the role of social media companies in allowing scams to spread and the need for industry more broadly to ramp up anti-fraud measures.

Consumer group Choice policy adviser Alex Soderlund said urgent action was needed given big tech companies 'have a perverse incentive not to act on scams because they generate advertising revenue'.

'So it's clear that only strong mandatory rules to prevent scams developed and enforced by a regulator will result in any meaningful change for consumers,' Mr Soderlund said.

The consumer group is one of 20 internationally to sign a statement calling on social media and other tech companies to better protect people from scams, via concrete measures like enhancing account verification and better monitoring, or face repercussions.
'I wouldn't wish this on nobody. My baby, my baby is gone,' her mother, De'Ann Radley, sobbed in a video one day after her death

A Nashville teenager has died after her mother accidentally shot her with an unholstered gun while digging through her purse to find her keys.

Dearria Radley Cooper, 13, was fatally shot on Saturday night inside the Edgehill Avenue home she shared with her mother, De'Ann Radley.

Radley told police that she had been rummaging through her handbag in search of her keys. In the bag she also kept a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, which accidentally discharged.

Midtown Hills Precinct officers responded to a 911 call just before 10 pm and delivered first aid to the 13-year-old before she was taken to Vanderbilts Pediatric Emergency Room.

There, she died of a single gunshot, police said.

Dearria Radley Cooper, 13, was fatally shot Saturday night in her Nashville home after an unholstered pistol in her mother's handbag went off

Dearria's mother, De'Ann Radley, told police that she had been searching for her keys when the gun accidentally fired. 'Thirteen years and my baby is gone. I want my baby back,' she sobbed in a video uploaded the day after her daughter's death

Police responded to a 911 call at 9:58 pm and rendered aid to the teenager before she was taken to the emergency room, where she later died

Radley left a string of posts on Facebook the day after her daughter's death.

She also recorded a video of herself sitting in the backseat of a car with tears streaking down her face.

'I don't wish this for nobody,' she said between sobs. 'Nobody, I wouldn't wish this on nobody. My baby, my baby is gone.'

'Thirteen years. Thirteen years and my baby is gone. I want my baby back.

'We been through everything together and my baby gone, my heart gone.'

Among the photos she shared was an old picture of her holding and kissing baby Dearria.

'Hug your babies tight because I lost mine, words can't describe this pain,' Radley wrote, referring to Dearria as 'my twin, my heart.'

'My baby was so beautiful, God give me the strength, I wouldn't wish this pain on anyone,' she continued. 'My heart is in a million pieces. Bug, wake up, mommy needs you.

'Who is going to tell me momma, it's gonna be okay and hugging me and wiping my tears away...Dearria, I need you, I can't do this.'

The middle schooler, nicknamed 'Bug' by her family, died of a single gunshot from a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol

'Hug your babies tight because I lost mine, words can't describe this pain,' Radley wrote on Facebook one day after Dearria's death

Grandmother Irish Radley requested prayers for the family and wrote that her heart felt as though it had been ripped out of her chest

It is unclear if Radley will face charges in connection to her daughter's death, as no charges have been filed yet

Dearria's grandmother, Irish Radley, took to Facebook with a message of her own.

'My heart feels like it's been ripped out my chest,' she wrote one day after the middle schooler's death.

'Please say a prayer for my family, we are going through it right now, my oldest grandbaby passed away last night.'

She signed off with a message to her granddaughter: 'Granny loves you, Bug.'

On Sunday, Radley set up a GoFundMe to cover her daughter's funeral expenses.

'My 13-year-old was accidentally shot and killed, I don't have insurance to bury her, if anyone can help me during these painful times I would gladly appreciate your contribution,' she wrote.

No charges have been filed in connection to Dearria's death at present, police said. The department's Youth Services Division is spearheading an investigation, which is ongoing.

In Tennessee, gun buyers are provided a firearm lock at the time of purchase.

However, a new law that went into effect last November states that Tennessee's Department of Safety must provide gun owners with locks upon request, regardless of purchase.
Six people - including five students and a security guard - were slashed and five have been arrested at a New York City charter school.

Police responded to a call at approximately 12:43 pm on Wednesday afternoon, where they found six injured people at New Dawn Charter High School II at 89-25 161st St. in Jamaica, Queens.

A fight reportedly broke out in the cafeteria on Wednesday, the Gothamist reported.

Officers discovered at least five students who were slashed, according to a Citizen app alert. Two had cuts on their hands and another in the face when police arrived at the scene.

A security guard who was injured reportedly tried to break up the fight. A teacher also took a knife from one of the students, according to the Citizen report.

The victims were transported to the hospital for treatment for minor cuts. They are currently in stable condition.

Six people - including five students and a security guard - were slashed and five have been arrested at a New York City charter school

Police responded to a call at approximately 12:43 pm on Wednesday afternoon, where they found six injured people at New Dawn Charter High School II at 89-25 161st St. in Jamaica, Queens

A fight reportedly broke out in the cafeteria on Wednesday

A teacher also took a knife from one of the students, according to the Citizen report

Officers discovered at least five students who were slashed, according to a Citizen app alert . Two had cuts on their hands and another in the face when police arrived at the scene

Five teenagers between the age of 15 and 20 years old were then taken into police custody

In a video posted to the app, roughly two dozen NYPD officers are seen guarding the outside of the school

The victims were transported to the hospital for treatment for minor cuts. They are currently in stable condition

Five teenagers between the age of 15 and 20 years old were then taken into police custody.

In a video posted to the app, roughly two dozen NYPD officers are seen guarding the outside of the school.

One person in a red tracksuit had his hands behind his back, while police presence surrounded the school.

The investigation is ongoing. The NYPD did not immediately respond to the DailyMail.com's request for comment.
Two female prison staff have been sentenced for having a relationship with the same inmate at the same time.

Aleesha Bates, 30, and Jodie Wilkes got to know the Casanova crook while working at HMP Buckley Hall, in Rochdale.

Prison officer Bates was first to strike up a relationship with the man, who had been jailed for drugs trafficking offences, Bolton Crown Court heard.

She became 'completely infatuated' with him, sent him X-rated messages and naked photos of herself, and even planned for a future together for them once he'd been released.

Operational support grade (OSG ) Wilkes did not accept she had engaged in a relationship with the prisoner, who had a 'track record' of befriending female prison staff, but had engaged in 'an improper association' with him.

Prison officer Bates (pictured) was first to strike up a relationship with the man, who had been jailed for drugs trafficking offences, Bolton Crown Court heard

Operational support grade (OSG ) Wilkes (pictured) did not accept she had engaged in a relationship with the prisoner, who had a 'track record' of befriending female prison staff, but had engaged in 'an improper association' with him

Brian Berlyne, prosecuting, said Bates's relationship with the man, which she conducted between December 2019 and June 2020, came to light after prison authorities received information they had become 'close'.

He was a prisoner on the wing where she was stationed and when his cell was searched a mobile phone was found concealed in a stereo.

Mr Berlyne said phone records showed contact between the man and Bates along with photos of them together and 'sexually explicit messages' they'd exchanged.

The phone records also showed the prisoner had been in contact with Wilkes.

Bates was questioned but initially denied having a relationship with the man while Wilkes admitted giving him her number and contacting him - and both subsequently resigned.

Both women were arrested in June 2020 and their phones were seized by police.

Mr Berlyne said Wilkes's phone showed she was first in contact with the prisoner in April 2020 and they had exchanged dozens of phone calls and text messages.

Bates's phoned showed she had first had phone contact with the man in January 2020.

Bates was questioned but initially denied having a relationship with the man while Wilkes admitted giving him her number and contacting him - and both subsequently resigned

Mr Berlyne said Wilkes's phone showed she was first in contact with the prisoner in April 2020 and they had exchanged dozens of phone calls and text messages

They had exchanged 'frequent' phone calls and more than 4,500 messages,

In one message, Bates said: 'I want you 24/7. I can't get enough of you.

'If I had it my way I would be on the phone to you every single moment.'

'The messages contained evidence of an intimate relationship between them, with Miss Bates expressing love for the prisoner and expressing plans for after his release,' said Mr Berlyne.

'She also sent him sexually explicit images and videos.'

Some of the messages also discussed money Bates owned the prisoner with some becoming 'threatening'.

One said that if Bates failed to return the money the prisoner would 'sent two people to her house to smash her head in'.

Mr Berlyne said analysis of Bates's bank accounts showed she had received 3,200 from a cousin of the prisoner, and 230 from another relative.

He said Bates had developed an 'infatuation' with the prisoner and they remained in contact even after his release in June 2020 'for some time'.

The court heard Wilkes had given the man her phone number during a night shift and although they had exchanged phone calls and messages their relationship was never sexual.

She claimed she wasn't 'manipulated' by him and received 'nothing' from their relationship after he'd 'paid her compliments' and flattered her.

In contrast, Bates told police she had been manipulated and 'fell in love' with the prisoner, Mr Berlyne said, and she had sent him naked photos of videos of herself, while he had sent her photos of his genitals.

But she claimed there had been no sexual touching while the man was in prison and their relationship only became physical when he was released.

She admitted warning him that his cell was about to be searched but had refused to sell cannabis for him.

The two women pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office at an earlier hearing and the court heard their offending had the potential to undermine prison security.

Colin Buckle, defending Wilkes, said she was 'deeply remorseful' for her actions but she did not consider she had engaged in a relationship with the prisoner, although she'd had a 'improper association' with him.

As an OSG, she wasn't in a position to consider give the prisoner 'some advantage' that would undermine security and it would be an 'unmitigated disaster' if she was jailed.

Bob Elias, defending Bates, said the 'track record' of the prisoner who'd acted as a 'seducer' needed to be considered.

Bates had been 'ensnared' by him and had 'crossed the line', he said, but she had been 'vulnerable' and custodial sentence wasn't necessary.

Mr Elias added that she had been 'flattered' and 'infatuated' and had engaged in a 'fantasy relationship'.

But Judge Elliot Knopf jailed Bates, of Heywood, Rochdale, for two years and eight months saying the 'gross breach of trust reached its ultimate level' in her case.

Bob Elias, defending Bates, said the 'track record' of the prisoner who'd acted as a 'seducer' needed to be considered

'Yes, you were ensnared [by the prisoner] but he identified you as someone who could be approached and you did not have to accept that approach,' he said.

The judge said there was a 'substantial difference' with Wilkes' case, although she'd failed to alert prison staff about the prisoner's phone.

He handed Wilkes, of Bolton, a 12 month sentence, suspended for two years, and ordered her to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.
A headteacher in Paris has been forced to quit over fears for his life due to death threats made against him after he told a teenage pupil to remove her Islamic head-covering in line with French law.

The teacher asked three female pupils at the Maurice Ravel Lycee to remove their headscarves, a request two complied with while one refused, prompting an altercation.

Threats appeared online in the following days, with a police patrol launched at the school, which is in the 20th district of the French capital.

An investigation into cyber-harrassment was opened, and a 26-year-old man has since been arrested for making death threats against the principal online. He is due to stand trial in April.

The teacher, who had worked at the school for seven years and in education for more than four decades, announced on Friday that he felt he had to quit over concerns for his own safety 'and that of the establishment.'

His resignation has sparked indignation in France, where concerns for educators' safety have grown since the murders of two teachers in attacks linked to Islamic extremism.

The head of Maurice Ravel Lycee, in the 20th district of Paris, received the threats on social media after an altercation in February

In 2020, Samuel Paty was decapitated in the street in Paris by a Chechen refugee after reportedly showing students a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad.

And last October, Dominique Bernard was killed at his school in Arras by a knifeman who witnesses said shouted 'Allahu Akbar' during the attack.

At a time when French teachers are saying they are scared of attacks and online abuse, with many leaving the profession, politicians and school staff have vented their fury and distress at the intimidation of the headmaster.

One Maurice Ravel Lycee teacher, who did not wish to be named, told French media: 'We are shocked, we are shocked. We find it lamentable... But hey, if we can't protect him otherwise.'

Threats began to emerge following the incident on February 28, when the student refused to remove her Islamic headscarves on school premises and an altercation ensued, according to prosecutors.

The student went on to lodge a complaint against the principal, accusing him of mistreating her during the incident.

She told French daily Le Parisien that she had been 'hit hard on the arm' by the headmaster, but the Paris prosecutor's office said that her complaint had been dismissed.

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced today the state would be filing a complaint against the student over falsely accusing the headmaster of mistreatment during the incident.

One teacher at Maurice Ravel Lycee, who did not wish to be named, said of staff there: 'We are shocked... we find it lamentable'

'The state... will always stand with these officials, those who are on the frontline faced with these breaches of secularism, these attempts of Islamist entryism in our education establishments,' he said during the evening news on the TF1 television channel.

Education Minister Nicole Belloubet had visited the school in early March and offered the headteacher her full support, deploring the 'unacceptable attacks'.

Politicians from across the spectrum on Wednesday expressed their shock at the headmaster's resignation, and criticised the management of the situation.

'It's a disgrace,' Bruno Retailleau, the head of the right-wing Republicans faction in the Senate upper house, said on X (former Twitter).

Boris Vallaud, the head of the Socialist deputies in the National Assembly lower house, told television broadcaster France 2 the incident was 'a collective failure'.

Education Minister Nicole Belloubet visited the school in early March and offered the headteacher her full support, deploring the 'unacceptable attacks'

Marion Marechal, the granddaughter of far-right patriarch Jean-Marie Le Pen and a far-right politician herself, spoke on Sud Radio of a 'defeat of the state' in the face of 'the Islamist gangrene'.

What are France's laws on religious head-coverings? In 2004, French authorities banned school children from wearing 'signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation' such as headscarves, turbans or kippas on the basis of the country's secular laws which are meant to guarantee neutrality in state institutions. The government last year said it was also banning the abaya - a garment worn by Muslim women that covers the body from the neck to the feet - in schools. Advertisement

Maud Bregeon, a lawmaker with President Emmanuel Macron's Renaissance party, also took aim at 'an Islamist movement'.

'Authority lies with school heads and teachers, and we have a duty to support this educational community,' Bregeon said.

Socialist Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo called the principal to 'assure him of her total support and solidarity', said her office, adding she was 'appalled and dismayed'.

The education ministry earlier said that the principal's decision to leave his post was 'understandable given the seriousness of the attacks against him'.

The uproar comes as dozens of French schools have received attack threats in separate incidents over recent weeks.

Attal has pledged to 'hunt down' the people responsible for sending them.

Around 50 schools in Paris received new bomb threats on Wednesday, some including a 'very violent video', education authorities said. The mayor's office said classes were briefly interrupted for security checks.

The prime minister pledged to increase security, including near schools, after the Islamic State jihadist group claimed responsibility for the killing of 137 people at a Moscow concert on Friday.
Ruthless IRA boss Martin McGuinness apparently helped set up a car bomb that later blew up in the Londonderry city centre, newly recovered video has revealed.

A documentary that was hidden away for nearly 50 years shows how a group of men, including McGuinness, seemingly packed explosives into a Volkswagen on a street in Londonderry, Northern Ireland before the vehicle was driven away.

The video then cuts to the moment a car bomb was detonated on Shipquay Street in 1972. The huge explosion injured 26 people and destroyed several buildings in the city centre.

BBC analysts have now determined the Volkswagen that McGuinness, then 21, helped pack with explosives was responsible for the bombing by connecting its registration plate to the one found at the blast site.

The car in the footage featured the number plate 7337 UI. Archival photographs from the explosion showed the same registration plate spewed amongst the wreckage.

The newly unmasked documentary, titled The Secret Army, was captured by an American film crew using fake press credentials and appears to be the first time McGuinness and his associates were filmed without disguises.

McGuinness was known as 'The Butcher of Bogside'. Feared for his murderous streak, he was the IRA's second-in-command in Londonderry during the Bloody Sunday Massacre, in which 13 innocent civilians were killed by British soldiers during a peaceful protest against internment in 1972.

The ex-Northern Ireland deputy first minister and Sinn Fein negotiator died in March 2017, aged 66, after suffering a rare heart condition.

This is the moment ruthless IRA boss Martin McGuinness, pictured on far-left, apparently helped prepare a car bombing that left 26 injured in Londonderry

This is the moment a car bomb was detonated on Shipquay Street in 1972. The huge explosion injured 26 people and destroyed several buildings in the city centre

Analysts have now determined the Volkswagen that McGuinness, then 21, helped pack with explosives was responsible for the bombing by connecting its registration plate to the one found at the blast site

Pictured left to right: Martin McGuinness, the officer in charge of the Provisional IRA in Londonderry, David O'Connell, tactician officer of the IRA Provisionals, Sean MacStiofain, the IRA Provisionals Chief of staff and Seamus Twomey, officer in charge of the IRA Provisionals in Belfast on June 1, 1972

The documentary captured the terror group's rank-and-file personnel participating in shootings and bombings during their campaign in 1972.

McGuinness was the dominant IRA leader in Derry at the time and was among those followed around by The Secret Army producer J Bowyer Bell's camera crews.

In one clip, McGuinness is seen driving around the city, his associate Tony Devine in the passenger seat, with guns in the vehicle.

The camera crew also captured McGuinness showing bullets to children.

Devine, narrating for the crew, explained how every time they drive through Free Derry they 'check the barricades', which the IRA had put up to keep the Protestant police force out.

'At night every barricade is manned with vigilantes,' Devine said.

The former IRA member, who still lives in Derry, told the BBC that he and McGuinness were 'only teenagers' at the time and 'weren't used to talking to film crews'.

Devine claims the crew had asked McGuinness to drive around and show them the area, but the leader said 'I'll only do it if you go with me'.

The footage appeared to a show group of men, including McGuinness, packing explosives into a Volkswagen on a street in Londonderry before the vehicle was driven away

Another clip showed McGuinness, pictured, driving around the city with his associate Tony Devine in the passenger seat. The pair had guns in the vehicle. The camera crew also captured McGuinness showing bullets to children

The previously hidden documentary, titled The Secret Army, captured the IRA's rank-and-file personnel participating in shootings and bombings during their campaign in 1972

Martin McGuinness sits behind his desk in the Republican Information Centre office in Londonderry with a poster of Bobby Sands, the famous hunger striker, on the wall behind him on September 23, 1985

The crew filmed the IRA conducting several missions, including the Shipquay Street bombing and a gun battle on the edge of Free Derry.

However, it is understood that the organisation was very concerned with keeping the contents of the film secure and had even made a secret deal with the filmmakers giving them control over what was said or shown in the final film.

One crew member alleged that McGuinness even threatened to kill them if the undeveloped footage did not make it out of Northern Ireland safely.

'You know if you don't get that film across the border I'll have to shoot you myself,' he reportedly told the crew member.

A source provided the BBC with a copy of The Secret Army about six years ago. The documentary had essentially vanished after it was filmed for reasons that seemingly remain a mystery.

Historians told the broadcaster that just days after filming concluded, an IRA delegation was flown to London to hold 'secret talks' with the British Government.

The delegation was made up of IRA Chief of Staff Sean MacStiofain, Daithi O Conaill, Seamus Twomey, Martin McGuinness, Ivor Bell and Gerry Adams.

Bell and Adams were the only members of the delegation who were not recorded by the filmmakers.

Additionally, none of the IRA participants who spoke to the BBC about the film indicated that the footage was ever used against them.

Gerry Adams (left) and Martin McGuinness (right) are pictured at the funeral of Patrick Kelly, 30, the reputed IRA commander in East Tyrone, in May 1987

This is the scene after an IRA exploded a bomb at the Grand Hotel in Brighton in October 1984. Most of the British Cabinet were staying at the hotel for the Conservative Party Conference

Martin McGuinness leaves court in Belfast in 1976 after charges against him involving IRA membership were dropped

Sinn Fein deputy leader Martin McGuinness is pictured at a rally in Belfast on Dec. 8, 1994. Behind him is Sinn Fein Leader Gerry Adams. The photograph was taken before McGuinness was meant to lead the Sin Fein delegation in talks with the British Government

In 1972, at the age of 21, McGuinness was second-in-command of the IRA in Londonderry, a position he held at the time of Bloody Sunday, when 14 civil rights protesters were killed in the city by soldiers with the 1st Battalion, Parachute Regiment.

The following year he was convicted by the Republic of Ireland's Special Criminal Court after being arrested near a car containing explosives and ammunition.

After his release from jail, and another conviction in the Republic for IRA membership, he became increasingly prominent in Sinn Fein, eventually becoming its best known face after Gerry Adams.

During the Troubles McGuinness had read numerous academic dissertations which all concluded that the British Army could not militarily beat the IRA.

But he claimed he believed the IRA could not defeat the British and became motivated to convince people change 'could only happen through politics'.

He was in indirect contact with British intelligence during the hunger strikes in the early 1980s, and again in the early 1990s.

In 1982, he was elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly at Stormont representing his home city of Londonderry. He was the second candidate elected after John Hume.

Queen Elizabeth II (2nd right) shakes hands with Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness (left) watched by First Minister Peter Robinson (2nd left) and Prince Philip (right) at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast, Northern Ireland on June 27, 2012

Martin McGuinness, the officer in charge of the Provisional IRA in Londonderry, David O'Connell, tactician officer of the IRA Provisionals, Sean MacStiofain and the IRA Provisionals Chief of staff, on June 1, 1972

Martin McGuinness' funeral cortege passes through the streets of Derry on March 23, 2017 in Londonderry, Northern Ireland. He died on March 20th that year

Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill (front left), Mary Lou McDonald (middle left) and Gerry Adams, carry the coffin of Northern Ireland's former deputy first minister and ex-IRA commander Martin McGuinness down Westland Street into the Bogside ahead of his funeral at St Columba's Church Long Tower, in Londonderry on March 23, 2017

He eventually became Sinn Fein's chief negotiator in the talks that led to the Good Friday Agreement which ended violence, secured IRA arms decommissioning in 2005 and shared government with former enemies.

He met Queen Elizabeth II during a cultural event at a Belfast theatre in June 2012. The pair shared a four-second handshake that made headlines around the globe.

After his handshake with the Queen, McGuinness said he 'genuinely regretted' every life lost during the Troubles.

McGuinness died in 2017, aged 66, in Londonderry after battling a short illness. The Sinn Fein veteran had been diagnosed with a rare heart condition year before.
Hundreds of NYPD officers descended on a Queens courthouse Wednesday as a suspect was charged in connection with the broad daylight slaying of a cop.

One of the suspects in Mondays horror cop shooting, Lindy Jones, 41, was arraigned and charged with weapons possession.

Prosecutors said he had been found with a ghost gun - meaning its serial number was removed to avoid it being traced - and it was believed he and the shooter were casing out a T-Mobile store.

The man cops say pulled the trigger, Guy Rivera, 34, remains in stable condition in hospital after he was shot by the partner of victim officer Jonathan Diller, 31, in the shooting.

On the outskirts of the city in Massapequa, Long Island, at the same time Jones was in court, around 1,000 officers lined the streets as Dillers body was transferred to Massapequa Funeral Home.

Diller, a married father of a one-year-old boy, was allegedly shot dead by Rivera during a traffic stop. The death has sparked a huge response from the police community, with NYPD Commissioner Edward Cavan branding him a hero.

More than 1,000 NYPD officers watch the arrival of Officer Jonathan Diller at the Massapequa Funeral Home after he was shot and killed Monday night in Far Rockaway pic.twitter.com/20BgBSYlqG  John Asbury (@JohnAsbury) March 26, 2024

Lindy Jones, 41, was arraigned and charged with weapons possession in connection to the shooting of an NYPD officer

Prosecutors said he had been found with a ghost gun,' meaning its serial number was removed to avoid it being traced

Hundreds of NYPD officers descended on the Queens courthouse Wednesday to watch the arraignment

Jones was walked past Diller's photo while exiting the 101 precinct on Wednesday

Jonathan Diller, the young officer from Long Island, was just three years into the job and leaves a young widow

With Rivera still in hospital, Jones was perp walked Wednesday out of Queens Supreme Court shortly before his arraignment.

It was heard on Wednesday that Jones - who has a history of 14 arrests including a 10 year stint in prison on attempted murder from 2003 - has refused to talk with detectives since his arrest on Tuesday night.

Officials say that Jones was behind the wheel of a car that was parked illegally in front of a bus lane, leading Diller and his partner to approach them shortly before 6pm Monday.

After Rivera allegedly refused to roll down his window or show his hands, he opened fire on Diller, hitting the young officer under his bullet proof vest.

After Dillers partner returned fire, both Rivera and Diller were rushed to hospital. The officer was later pronounced dead, while Jones remains in stable condition.

At Wednesdays hearing, prosecutors said Jones was charged with gun possession and possession of a defaced firearm, meaning he used a ghost gun.

He was held without bail as officials cited Jones history of skipping court dates in the past.

Prosecutors said a search warrant was issued on the vehicle in the shooting, which uncovered a second firearm.

Investigators believe Jones and Rivera had been casing out a T-Mobile store before the shooting.

Horrific surveillance footage captured the moment the young NYPD cop writhed in agony on the streets of New York after being shot.

In the new footage, three loud gunshots are heard ringing out as bystanders flee for safety.

Diller leaves a young widow, Stephanie, and a one year-old son at his home in Long Island

Surveillance footage captured the moment Diller was fatally shot after approaching an illegally parked vehicle

Despite being shot, Diller heroically moved the gun away from the shooter after it was dropped on the ground, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said during a press briefing.

In the footage of the shooting, the quiet street was emptied within seconds as the shots rang out.

Witness Dean Peters said Diller erupted with screams of agony, adding: 'He was moving, he was saying, Im hit, Im hit! Giving location and all that.

'Like he was crying, like he was really crying.'

Tributes poured in for Diller after his sudden death, as he leaves behind his wife and infant son.

'Tonight this city lost a hero, a wife lost her husband, and a young child lost their father,' NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban wrote on X.

'We struggle to find the words to express the tragedy of losing one of our own. The work that Police Officer Jonathan Diller did each day to make this city a safer place will NEVER be forgotten.

'Our prayers are with his family, loved ones, and brothers and sisters in blue.'

New York City Mayor Eric Adams branded the shooting a 'senseless act of violence' at a press conference outside Jamaica Hospital.

'I cant not say it any clearer: It is the good guys against the bad guys, and these bad guys are violent,' Adams, a former cop, added.

Following Rivera's arrest, it emerged that he has a lengthy criminal history including first degree robbery, illegal gun possession and assaults.

Neighbors heard shots ring out at 5:50 pm, less than two blocks from the NYPD's 101st Precinct stationhouse before seeing the fatally injured officer lying in the street

Diller and a colleague were working in Far Rockaway as part of the NYPD Critical Response Team focusing on car crime

He had 21 prior arrests and previously served five years in prison on drug charges before being paroled in 2021.

Rivera had also been incarcerated from 2011 to 2014 over a first-degree assault charge.

Jones had 14 prior arrests, including a conviction for attempted murder and robbery in 2003 that saw him serve 10 years behind bars.

He had been arrested on gun charges last April, but was released on a $75,000 bail that was set to bring him back to court Monday.

Following Jones' April arrest, where he was caught with a loaded firearm, Mayor Adams said that he was a prime example of a 'recidivist problem' - meaning a small number of perpetrators committing a large number of crimes.

'Same bad people doing bad things to good people,' Adams added.
The showrunner of the BBCs hit sci-fi drama Doctor Who has said the end of the BBC is undoubtedly on its way.

Russell T Davies suggested the BBCs decision to join forces with Disney to produce the series, could potentially help the show outlive the UK broadcaster.

In an embarrassing intervention for the corporation from one of its biggest names, the screenwriter and producer said: Youve also got to look in the long term at the end of the BBC, which is somehow, surely, undoubtedly, on its way in some shape or form.

He added: Whats Doctor Who going to die then? No! Youve got to prepare for that kind of stuff.

Mr Davies said before he agreed to return to the show, he had already said Doctor Who should become a co-production, as the BBC would not be able to fund it to compete with streaming giants.

Russell T Davies suggested the BBCs decision to join forces with Disney to produce the series, could potentially help the show outlive the UK broadcaster

He said it would be a real shame if Doctor Who was not up there with the big-hitters like The Mandalorian and Marvel shows.

Speaking to the podcast series They Like to Watch, Mr Davies said: If Disney collapsed tomorrow and we had to go back to making Doctor Who on a normal BBC budget, you know what? Wed all rally round and make it and suddenly stories would become claustrophobic ghost stories.

He said: A lot of people would like that very much. So Im not saying you have to have this happen. But while its happening elsewhere, I think its unfair that it doesnt happen to Doctor Who.

Mr Davies was behind the revival of Doctor Who in 2005, with Christopher Eccleston playing the Time Lord before leaving the show in 2010. He returned to take control of the series again last year.

Ncuti Ghani (above) will play the Doctor in season 14 of the iconic show, with the first episode set to hit screens on May 11

His other hits include Channel 4s Its a Sin and the BBC1 drama Years and Years.

Mr Davies has previously claimed the BBC is doomed and heading for extinction.

In 2021 he said while drama is in a golden age with streaming giants such as Netflix, the state of traditional broadcasters is not so magnificent.

The comments by Mr Davies are all the more embarrassing for the BBC as they have emerged the day after director-general laid out his vision for the corporation's important role in the future.

Tim Davie's speech had been called A BBC for the Future and it identified key roles for the BBC to 'pursue the truth with no agenda', 'back British storytelling' and 'bring people together'.
Travellers are getting a head start on their Easter holiday plans as thousands bracing for long queues and delays as they pile into airports across Australia.

The Easter long weekend officially begins on Friday, but many Aussies have booked Thursday morning flights to extend their holidays.

More than 130,000 people are expected to move through Sydney Airport in the next 24 hours alone - making it the busiest day of the Easter period.

However, the airport says it's more than prepared for the increased foot traffic.

Thursday is expected to be one of the busiest days of the year for Sydney Airport (file image)

A Sydney Airport spokesperson said they are expecting a 'longer, but less peaky busy period' this year due to the two-week gap between the school holidays and Easter period.

'The terminals will still be bustling and we're encouraging passengers to arrive at the airport two hours ahead of domestic travel if they're checking in luggage, and three hours prior if heading overseas,' the spokesperson said.

Travellers should keep an eye out for staff handing out Easter egg chocolates at the terminals over the holiday period.

There was already some traffic building on Southern Cross Drive at 7am as drivers head towards the airport.

Meanwhile, Melbourne Airport is preparing for 1.7 million travellers across the long weekend.

Brisbane Airport expects two million passengers to pass through in the next two weeks and has gone the extra mile by bringing in therapy dogs to help ease the stress of the holiday period.

Travellers heading away for the four day Easter long weekend are urged to get to the airport early

#TeamBNE and departing families take a break from the #easter2024 travel rush and stress at @BrisbaneAirport with cuddles from therapy support puppies and fun departure activities!  #beingunited #easterholidays #goodleadstheway pic.twitter.com/tniFEfASOf  Eilis Fanning Baldevia (@BaldeviaEilis) March 27, 2024

Those hitting the skies are urged to leave plenty of time to prepare for any potential delays as the airports work hard to keep up with increased demand.

Checking in online before arriving at the terminal could save a significant time on arrival, with long queues expected to grow throughout the day.

Major roads are expected to start banking up with traffic from Thursday afternoon, as drivers hit the road for weekend getaways.

In NSW, the Pacific Highway heading north through Wahroonga, Sydney and the Princes Highway heading south towards Nowra is likely to be busy.

In Melbourne, the Monash Freeway and West Gate Bridge are expected to be packed.

While in Brisbane, the Bruce Highway heading north and the M1 south-bound will likely cause the most grief for drivers.

The Sturt Highway in Adelaide and in Perth, the Kwinana Freeway will the busiest roads in each of the capital cities.

Brisbane Airport (pictured) expects two million passengers to pass through in the next two weeks
King Charles has emphasised the importance of extending a hand of friendship to those in need, as a new portrait of the monarch is released.

After being advised by doctors not to undertake public engagements with large numbers of people while undergoing cancer treatment, His Majesty has decided to record a special audio message to be played at Thursday's annual Maundy Service.

Held this year at Worcester Cathedral, it is one of the most significant set-piece events in the royal calendar each year and held huge spiritual significance for Queen Elizabeth.

Every Thursday before Easter Sunday the sovereign hands out gifts of coins equivalent to their age to pensioners who have contributed to their church and community.

The ceremony dates back to the 4th Century and commemorates Jesus washing the feet of his Apostles at the last supper.

King Charles has emphasised the importance of extending a hand of friendship to those in need, as a new portrait (pictured) of the monarch is released

His Majesty has decided to record a special audio message to be played at Thursday's annual Maundy Service. Camilla will be standing in for Charles

Queen Camilla will be standing in for His Majesty for the first time this year.

READ MORE: King Charles looks cheerful as cancer-battling monarch meets climate campaigner at Buckingham Palace Advertisement

But earlier this month her husband recorded a special message and Bible reading in the 18th Century Room at Buckingham Palace to be played to the congregation.

While there is no mention of family health matters - his own cancer diagnosis and treatment, as well as that of his daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales - his message of support will appear even more poignant.

His Majesty will say how the Lord Jesus set us an 'example of how we should serve and care for each other'.

He goes on to emphasise how, as a nation, 'we benefit greatly from those who extend the hand of friendship to us, especially in a time of need'.

The King will say that the Maundy money recipients are 'wonderful examples of such kindness' in 'giving so much of their lives to the service of others in their communities'.

And he will re amplify his own Coronation pledge 'not to be served but to serve'.

It was recorded as an audio instead of on video as Worcester Cathedral does not have the capacity to play a television message.

King Charles' daughter-in-law Kate Middleton (pictured) is also battling cancer. She revealed it in a video message last Friday

King Charles appeared cheerful and chipper on Wednesday as carried on in his 'business as usual' outlook amid his battle with cancer

The King's meeting came as Queen Camilla met well-wishers during a visit to Shrewsbury, Shropshire, on Wednesday

The new portrait which accompanies the message shows the King looking relaxed and in good spirits, with a posy of spring flowers next to him, despite his personal ordeal.

His Majesty will also lead a smaller than normal family party given the absence of the Prince and Princess of Wales and their family to church at Windsor on Easter Sunday, his most significant public appearance his his diagnosis in early February.

He is continuing to undertake private meeting and work on state business, and yesterday received His Excellency Mohamed Nasheed, secretary-general of the climate vulnerable forum, to Buckingham Palace.

Charles appeared cheerful and chipper on Tuesday as he carried on his 'business as usual' outlook amid his battle with cancer.

The monarch smiled as he met Mohamed Nasheed, 56, Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday.

Despite being told by his doctors to cancel his public engagements ahead of his surgery, the King has insisted on keeping up with his paperwork and holding meetings.

Charles appeared in good spirits as he met with Mr Nasheed, who has won numerous awards for his work on environmental protection and the fight against climate change.

Mr Nasheed was also the first democratically elected president of the Maldives when he took power in 20087 after a campaign of nonviolent civil disobedience against dictator Maumoon Gayoom.
The Russell Library is located at 123 Broad St. in Middletown. Cassandra Day / Hearst Connecticut Media

MIDDLETOWN  Russell Library Director Ramona Burkey carried a yardstick to the third floor one day last week, measuring the space between book stacks.

Not only was the width less than the ADA-complaint 36 inches, but the area between the end of the stacks and wall is so narrow that patrons must squeeze through to peruse other books.

The space preferred by the American Library Association is 42 inches.

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The tiny space makes it impossible for someone in a wheelchair, using a walker or pushing a baby carriage to gain full access.

The library, which opened on April 5, 1876, has 45,000 square feet of space. According to the Connecticut State Library, a facility that serves a population Middletown's size should comprise about 65,000 square feet.

Burkey has attended many city planning sessions over the past four to five years, where people shared their ideas for the Plan of Conservation and Development, Return to the Riverbend master plan, focus groups hosted by the Recreation & Community Services Department, and others.

Ramona Burkey, director of the Russell Library in Middletown, says it's time to create a safe, welcoming and accessible library suitable for 21st century needs. Cassandra Day / Hearst Connecticut Media

What Middletown wants and needs is . spaces for youth, places for kids to go, meeting and gathering spaces of all different sizes that you dont have to pay for, small study rooms on up to big conference rooms and huge community rooms for arts and culture events," she said.

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There is also a need for equitable access to technology, free parking and other standard features.

Thats a checklist for a great library, Burkey said. The public library is in the community, but really we are of the community.

The idea is to create a safe, welcoming and accessible place suitable for 21st century needs.

Even though staff have carved out sections such as for teens, Burkey said, it is crammed in the church basement, which is what we have now, or crammed into an old church building that has asbestos in it. Lets be intentional.

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While the goal is to have appealing meeting and gathering areas, she added, that is very difficult to do in a group of old structures that, for one, arent even ADA compliant.

There is not one square inch of this library that was designed to be a library originally, the director said, referring to the cobbling together of an old bank, church and other buildings, some of which date back nearly 150 years.

When renovations were made in 1983, they were intended to be temporary and only last to the year 2000.

However, the third floor, for example, was never built to support heavy book stacks, the director said. In the computer area, the space is wide open with natural light, but expansion is not possible for that same reason, she said.

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The whole library would fall down, Burkey said jokingly.

The facility is simply unable to meet the needs of today's world. We cant do that with what we have now," she said. Were talking million dollar Band-Aids potentially in the near future."

Major systems, such as the chiller and elevator, are far past their useful life.

The plan is called a generational one. However, she said, we dont have a generation to figure this out.

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Earlier this year, the Russell Library/City Hall Feasibility Study Committee chose Silver Petrucelli + Associates of Hamden to conduct Phase 2 of its capital planning process.

The committee is brainstorming possible locations, which have been narrowed down to three, the director said. At this point, these are "thought exercises," since no properties have been offered as of yet.

A location along the Connecticut riverfront has been ruled out for various reasons, not the least of which is that it is in a floodplain.

City Hall, which officials say will eventually move to a former bank on Main Street, is also another option, Burkey said, but the timeline may not be favorable.

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The idea of razing some buildings and knocking down the structure next door at 139 Broad St., owned by the library, is also under consideration. Were not going to be cobbling buildings together anymore, Burkey said. Weve tried that for 100 years, and its not working.

Free parking is also an issue, the director said. The solution could involve validated parking.

Another possible option is McCarthy Park on Hotchkiss Street, which comprises 3.5 acres of land.

The community can help provide data through a survey, which runs through April 23, and in-person workshops in April.

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This is the next exciting step in what has been a multiyear process toward providing Middletown residents with the modern, accessible public library that they deserve, Eamonn Wisneski, president of the Russell Library Board of Trustees, said in a prepared statement.
The Russian President was re-elected for his fifth term in March

A councillor from regional West Australia has been captured on Russian television congratulating Vladimir Putin on his election victory.

Adrian McRae, who was elected to the Port Hedland Council in March, praised the Russians for their 'transparency' in a video published by Channel One State News.

'Can I please pass on my most sincere congratulations to Mr Vladimir Putin,' he said.

'In my lifetime, the world has never seen such a transparent and comprehensive victory as what we saw here over the last three days.'

It's understood Mr McRae was flown to Moscow as part of an international delegation to observe the election of the President of the Russian Federation.

The councillor said he had been invited by the Russian Ambassador to Australia Aleksey Pavlovsky as an 'independent international observer'.

Adrian McRae, who was elected to the Port Hedland Council in Western Australia in March, was captured congratulating Vladimir Putin on Russian state-owned television

Mr McRae received a Badge of Honour from Russian opposition candidate Sergey Baburin during his participation in an election observation program in Moscow this month

The Russian embassy told the ABC that Mr McRae, alongside many other foreign nationals, had taken part in the election observation program.

Notorious pro-Putin activist Simeon Boikov, also known as the 'Aussie Cossack', shared photos of Mr McRae receiving a Badge of Honour from Russian opposition candidate Sergey Baburin on the encrypted messaging service Telegram.

'[It] was the highest award of the International Slavic Academy - the Badge of Honour - for my work in strengthening friendships between the people of Russia and Australia,' Mr McRae later wrote of the award.

The councillor later gushed about the 'most ridiculously over-the-top transparency' he witnessed at the Russian elections to local newspaper the North West Telegraph.

'Having run as a candidate in both Australian federal and local government elections, as well as volunteering as a scrutineer for national elections and referendums, I was truly shocked by Russia's transparency... It leaves the Australian system in its wake,' he told the publication from Moscow.

However, not everyone agreed with Mr McRae with Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong slamming the election result as an 'insult to democracy'.

'Russia's presidential elections were not free, fair, inclusive or credible. The absence of genuine candidates and Putin's silencing of opposition voices, including Alexei Navalny, denied Russians any real choice,' Ms Wong wrote on X.

'We condemn Russia's sham elections in Ukrainian territories, which have no validity under international law. We support Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity, and all those fighting for democracy and human rights in Russia.'

Putin was re-elected for his fifth term as Russian President following elections in March

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the Russian elections were an 'insult to democracy'

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said the elections - which saw Putin re-elected for his fifth term - was 'not democracy' especially after Moscow tried to silence 'any opposition to his illegal war' with Ukraine.

Town of Port Hedland chief executive Carl Askew told the North West Telegraph that Mr McRae had travelled to Moscow in a personal capacity.

'The town does not comment on the personal activities of elected members,' he said. 'All elected members are subject to the town's code of conduct.'

Mr McRae was due to be sworn into the Port Hedland Council on March 11 after a landslide win at a by-election on March 8.

'Although I am currently overseas between Russia and the Middle East, I look forward to returning home to Hedland later this month to serve all Port Hedland people until the end of my term,' he wrote on Facebook on March 9.

Mr McRae's business trip to Moscow goes against travel advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

'Do not travel to Russia due to the security situation and the impacts of the military conflict with Ukraine,' the advice states.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Mr McRae and the Port Hedland Council.
Once Gallagher leaves on April 19, Republicans will only be able to lose one vote and still pass party-line legislation

Greene instead laid blame on Republicans who have left Congress before end of their term, name-checking Reps. Ken Buck, R-Colo., and Mike Gallagher, Wis.

Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene washed her hands clean of any blame about giving power over to Democrats after her new bid to oust Speaker Mike Johnson.

Greene instead laid blame on Republicans who have left Congress before the end of their term, name-checking Reps. Ken Buck, R-Colo., and Mike Gallagher, R-Wis.

'It's just a simple math. The more Republicans, like Mike Gallagher, that resign and leave early  guess what, that means we have less Republicans in the House,' Greene said Tuesday on Real America's Voice.

'So, every time a Mike Gallagher or a Ken Buck leaves early, that brings our numbers down and brings us dangerously closer to being in the minority.'

Buck had his last day on Friday, and Gallagher announced his shock resignation last week.

Once Gallagher leaves on April 19, Republicans will only be able to lose one vote and still pass party-line legislation. After a special election in California in May for former Speaker Kevin McCarthy's seat, that number will go back up to two - one of the slimmest majorities in modern history.

'I am not going to be responsible for Hakeem Jeffries being Speaker of the House,' Greene said.

But with Greene threatening Johnson's speakership with a motion to vacate, some speculate he'll be forced to be at the will of Democrats who could save him by voting down the motion.

Democratic sources have signaled they would vote to table - or kill - the motion if Johnson put Ukraine aid on the House floor, which Greene has long railed against.

'It's not Marjorie Taylor Greene that is saying the inconvenient truth and forcing everyone to wake up and realize Republican voters are done with us doing this kind of crap that we did last week,' she added, referring to the $1.4 trillion spending bill.

'I am not going to be responsible for Hakeem Jeffries being Speaker of the House,' Greene said.

Some Republicans have left over the chaos of this congressional term. Speaker Kevin McCarthy resigned after he was kicked out of leadership and Buck has said Republican dysfunction sent him fleeing for the exits.

'I am not going to be responsible for a Democratic majority taking over our Republican majority that lies squarely rarely on the shoulders of these Republicans that are leaving early because they don't have the intestinal fortitude to handle the real fight and the responsibility that comes with leadership and the end of our republic when our country is nearly destroyed,' Greene insisted.

Earlier this week Greene said Johnson had 'failed' Republicans by not forcing resigning Gallagher, a pragmatic and policy-focused conservative, to leave early enough to trigger a special election.

According to Wisconsin election law, a special election is triggered to replace House members if the seat opens up by the first week of April. If a seat becomes available after that, like Gallagher's will, it may sit vacant until the following congressional term.

Greene said Speaker Mike Johnson had 'failed' Republicans by not forcing resigning Rep. Mike Gallagher to leave early enough to trigger a special election

'Speaker Johnson should be forcing Mike Gallagher to leave early so that his district can hold a special election, and any strong Republican Speaker of the House would expel a member for leaving our razor-thin majority in such a delicate, delicate state. We cannot allow  we cannot allow this,' Greene said Sunday on Fox News' Sunday Morning Futures.

'Mike Gallagher betrayed all of us,' Greene went on.

'And Speaker Johnson, as the one who's responsible for our majority, praised Mike Gallagher on Friday after he announced his departure, saying that he's great and praising him and thanking him for his service in Congress,' she added.

A source close to Gallagher told DailyMail.com: Gallagher's decision was 'difficult and personal' and had come 'after discussions with his family.'

'House Republican leadership was made aware of and approved this timeline,' the person said. 'Moreover, when Vince Fong wins his election a few short weeks after Congressman Gallagher's departure, this will be a one for one swap and the number of Republicans in the House will be the same.'

On Friday Greene filed a motion to vacate, or a resolution that could oust Johnson, over the spending bills he'd brought to the House floor. She said she would not immediately make the resolution privileged to force a quick vote, but meant it as a 'warning and a pink slip.'

Gallagher, a Wisconsin Republican and chair of the China subcommittee, issued a shock resignation announcement last week that could leave the House with the slimmest of majorities for the rest of the year

On Friday Greene filed a motion to vacate, or a resolution that could oust Johnson, over the spending bills he'd brought to the House floor

Greene fist bumping with Speaker Mike Johnson at the State of the Union, just two weeks before she launched a motion to vacate against him

But on Sunday, she had forceful words for the speaker too.

'Johnson cannot remain speaker of the House.'

Gallagher already announced he was retiring at the end of his congressional term earlier this year after blowback for his vote against impeaching Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas.

'After conversations with my family, I have made the decision to resign,' Gallagher said in a statement. 'Effective April 19.'

Gallagher, 39, has been in Congress since 2017. He shares two young daughters with his wife.

The policy-focused pragmatic conservative joins a slew of high-level retirements among the House Republican ranks, after a congressional term marred by chaos.

Just after Gallagher's announcement, Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, chair of the powerful Appropriations Committee, announced she would be stepping down as chairwoman. She already announced she won't be running for reelection next term.

Friday was Colorado Rep. Ken Buck's last day after an early resignation, making him the fifth Republican this year to flee early or be expelled in the case of Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y.
Hunter's team expressed outrage at what they claim is the Justice Department reneging on a plea agreement that would have let him off with no jail time

Hunter Biden's attorneys were seeking to convince LA federal judge Mark Scarsi to dismiss the nine-count tax crimes case filed against him

Hunter Biden's attorneys appeared in Los Angeles federal court on Wednesday in a bid to get his tax crimes case dismissed  with Special Counsel David Weiss watching from the public benches.

The First Sons attorneys were attempting to convince LA federal judge Mark Scarsi to dismiss the nine-count tax crimes case filed against him by Special Counsel David Weiss.

But two hours into the afternoon hearing, Hunters top lawyer Abbe Lowell appeared to be on the back foot, with Judge Scarsi telling him there was not any evidence filed for some of his legal arguments beyond a timeline.

In July of last year prosecutors and Hunters lawyers seemed to be on good terms, poised to go through with a sweetheart plea deal that would grant him broad immunity.

But in court on Wednesday the sparks were flying.

Prosecutor Derek Hines called out Lowell for unnecessary allegations of unethical and discriminatory behavior against Hunter, and Lowell shot back that the government had cast aspersions on him and his team.

After more than three hours of legal sparring, Judge Scarsi said he would make an order by April 17 which will decide whether the case continues to go to trial, or will be shot down as Lowell is advocating.

Hunter Biden's legal team appeared in Los Angeles federal court on Wednesday in a bid to get his tax crimes case dismissed

Justice Department prosecutor Leo Wise and Lowell traded blows, with Wise admonishing Lowell for appearing to call him a rank partisan and Lowell accusing the Justice Department of succumbing to pressure from Republican lawmakers to push a vindictive prosecution on the First Son.

Lowell also argued that the whole prosecution was invalid due to the alleged improper appointment of David Weiss as Special Counsel while he was still a US Attorney  as he sat watching in a blue suit from the front row of the public seating in the LA court.

Hunter himself did not make an appearance at the hearing, that is set to decide whether he will face a trial scheduled for June.

Todays argument gave glimpses of what the jury could be asked to consider at trial, currently slated for June 20.

Lowell argued that charges about the 2018 tax year should be thrown out because they were filed in California, when Hunter allegedly lived in Washington, DC at the time.

Hunter's legal team has argues Special Counsel David Weiss was improperly appointed, making any prosecution he launches invalid

Judge Scarsi pointed out that Hunter agreed in his now-defunct plea deal documents that he moved to California in the spring of 2018, but added that it would be for the jury to decide the truth.

Lowell also adopted a cunning legal strategy to argue that the First Son could not be tried for failure to pay taxes, because his willful evasion of the IRS started even earlier than prosecutors alleged.

The attorney told the court that texts with his ex-wife Kathleen show he knew he had failed to pay his taxes in 2016, starting the clock for the five-year statute of limitations ticking then, rather than in 2018 or 2020 as prosecutors claim, when his accountants told him he needed to pay.

The move could mean Hunter gets off on those charges by arguing that he actually broke the law for longer than prosecutors say.

Lowell did not shy away from criticizing his client, saying that in previous years the First Son was a drug addict who did ridiculously stupid things while in the depths of his addiction.

The First Son's attorneys were attempting to convince LA federal judge Mark Scarsi to dismiss the nine-count tax crimes case filed against him by Special Counsel David Weiss.

Lowell claimed the prosecution had been tainted by interference from IRS whistleblowers, saying their disclosures to Congress alleging a slow-rolled and stymied investigation led to top Republicans to put pressure on the Justice Department to cancel its plea deal and charge Hunter with felonies.

These two agents started the dominos, Lowell said. When was the last time a chair of a congressional committee sought intervention to stop a plea deal?

Wise hit back that the claim he was influenced by former IRS agents was patently absurd, adding I couldnt pick them out of a lineup.

The defenses problem is they offer no proof, Wise said. Other than insulting us, where is the proof?

Scarsi also appeared skeptical of Lowells argument, grilling the attorney to answer whether he had any other evidence beyond a timeline.

Judge Scarsi told Lowell that his legal filings claiming political influence in the prosecution were not filed with any evidence beyond a timeline, saying they contain a lot of citations to things on the internet but these arent evidence in the court.

The First Son's attorneys were attempting to convince LA federal judge Mark Scarsi (pictured) to dismiss his nine-count tax crimes

When asked what his evidence was beyond a timeline of events, Lowell told Scarsi: Its a timeline, but its a juicy timeline.

Lowell argued that Hunters planned plea deal giving him immunity from future tax charges still stands because Hunter and prosecutors signed it.

But Wise pointed out that a third signature was required: the US chief probation officer, and quoted from a declaration of a witness at the Delaware July hearing where the deal fell apart, stating that the officer expressly declined to sign it.

Wise said Hunters previous lawyer, Chris Clark, contradicted himself and testified to two entirely different things during that hearing. The prosecutor then accused Lowell of going to extraordinary lengths to distort the plea negotiations to get Hunters charges thrown out.

If Judge Scarsi sides with prosecutors and shoots down Lowells bid to get the charges dismissed, Hunter is set to face two federal trials on two sides of the continent in one month.

Judge Maryellen Noreika set a tentative trial date for his gun and drug charges in Delaware on June 3, and Hunters California felony tax crime trial is set for June 20.

In the past two months Winston & Strawn defense attorneys Lowell and Angela Machala filed a flurry of motions claiming:

The prosecution is a political witch hunt under pressure from Republican lawmakers and Donald Trump Hunter's 'sweetheart' plea deal shot down by a Delaware judge was still in force The statute of limitations had expired on Hunter's alleged crimes Los Angeles was the incorrect venue to try his case Weiss was improperly appointed, making any prosecution he launches invalid

6. IRS whistleblowers who shared case information with Congress ruined the case by going out of bounds

Weiss and his deputies, Leo Wise and Derek Hines, countered all the claims with their own filings, painting Hunter's attorneys as resorting to desperate and erroneous legal arguments rather than facing a jury.

Hunter's team expressed outrage at what they claim is the Justice Department reneging on a plea agreement that would have let him off with no jail time and effective immunity for other potential past crimes.

The deal fell apart at a dramatic hearing on July 26 when Delaware federal judge Maryellen Noreika exposed disagreements between prosecutors and Hunter's legal team over his protection from new charges  such as for illegal foreign lobbying.

Weiss' team argue that the agreement was only a 'draft', explicitly requiring signoff from the US chief probations officer that never occurred.

Hunter was indicted in December for three felonies and six misdemeanors. The president's son is accused of deliberately evading tax, falsifying his returns, and failing to pay $1.4million on time  instead spending the money on a 'lavish lifestyle'.

The charges span the tax years of 2016 through 2019, and could land him with up to 17 years prison.

Lowell told the judge in legal filings that Hunter's charges for failure to pay tax in 2016 were beyond the five-year statute of limitations.

But Wise shot back with papers saying that the First Son's lack of payment only became 'willful'  and thus criminal  in 2020, meaning the clock started much later.

Special Counsel David Weiss and his deputies Leo Wise and Derek Hines (pictured) countered all the claims with their own filings, painting Hunter's attorneys as resorting to desperate and erroneous legal arguments rather than facing a jury

Hunter's attorneys claim he did not live in California in 2018, meaning tax charges cannot be filed against him there.

But data from Hunter's abandoned laptop shows he spent significant time there during that period, and prosecutors argue that he lived both in Wilmington, Delaware and Los Angeles in 2018.

In an apparent slam-dunk, Weiss' team wrote to judge Scarsi on March 25: 'The defendant moved to California in the first week of April 2018 and expressed his intention to stay in California in a text message that he sent from California to his sister-in-law on April 12, 2018, writing, 'I'm staying here indefinitely.'

Some legal filings have been sealed due to ongoing investigations of other suspects  adding intrigue to the case, and the possibility of new indictments.

'The redacted information contained in the filing and the sealed exhibits relates to a potential ongoing investigation(s)' prosecutors wrote in a legal submission this month, adding they are 'not references to any investigation of [Hunter].'

In January, Weiss' team charged former FBI informant Alexander Smirnov with lying, claiming he acted as a Russian double agent. Smirnov denies the charges.

The informant became a key figure in the Biden investigation when he told his handler in 2020 that Ukrainian oligarch Mykola Zlochevsky bragged to him about paying $10 million in bribes to then-Vice President Joe Biden and Hunter for killing a criminal probe into his gas company Burisma.

Since last year, top Republicans have been investigating Joe Biden's links to Hunter's shady overseas deals with the aim of impeaching the President.

Lowell claims that 'political pressure from President Trump and his MAGA allies' was the only reason Weiss filed charges against Hunter.

Weiss' team say they had already been investigating Hunter for years, and were willing to strike a deal with him until he pleaded not guilty to alleged gun crimes in Delaware in July.

In January, Weiss' team charged former FBI informant Alexander Smirnov with lying, claiming he acted as a Russian double agent. Smirnov denies the charges

Prosecutors say he also received around $1.2million 'in financial support to fund his extravagant lifestyle' in 2020 alone, from his 'sugar brother' Hollywood lawyer Kevin Morris (left)

Hunter's California tax indictment, filed December 7, states that despite receiving millions in personal income and financial support from a friend, he 'spent this money on drugs, escorts and girlfriends, luxury hotels and rental properties, exotic cars, clothing, and other items of a personal nature, in short, everything but his taxes'.

'The Defendant spent approximately $1million in 2016, $1.4million in 2017, $1.8million in 2018, and $600,000 in 2019,' the indictment alleges.

Hunter made more than $7 million in gross income between 2016 and 2020, according to the documents.

Prosecutors say he also received around $1.2million 'in financial support to fund his extravagant lifestyle' in 2020 alone, from his 'sugar brother' Hollywood lawyer Kevin Morris.

Morris' total support to Hunter is at least $4.9 million, according to Congressional testimony from IRS agent Joseph Ziegler, who investigated Hunter for five years before blowing the whistle on the DOJ's alleged lackluster prosecution.
JPMorgan Chase chief executive Jamie Dimon had a one-on-one lunch at the White House last week with vice-president Kamala Harris, according to a report from the Financial Times.

The meeting took place even after Democrats reacted in horror to Dimon's comments complimenting former President Donald Trump during the annual World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland in January.

Dimon warned Democrats they needed to be 'more respectful' of Trump's MAGA supporters.

Jamie Dimon angered Democrats earlier this year for saying positive things about Trump

As an Attorney General of California, Harris clashed with Dimon during a contentious phone call

'I think this negative talk about MAGA is going to hurt Bidens election campaign,' he said in a CNBC interview.

Dimon describes himself as 'barely a Democrat' even though he frequently donates to Democrat candidates.

He even praised Trump's policies in the same interview.

Take a step back, be honest. He was kind of right about NATO, kind of right on immigration. He grew the economy quite well. Trade tax reform worked. He was right about some of China,' Dimon said bluntly.

Despite his Trump-friendly remarks, Dimon met separately with White House chief of staff Jeff Zients while he was visiting the White House.

There was no reported meeting between Dimon and President Joe Biden.

Jamie Dimon, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of JPMorgan, visited the White House last week and had lunch with Harris.

U.S. President Donald Trump stands next to Jamie Dimon, chief executive officer of JPMorgan Chase & Co., left.

Dimon and Harris have a contentious history, as she was one of the Attorneys General who opposed a federal mortgage settlement with the big banks after the 2008 financial crisis.

In her memoir, Harris wrote of a contentious call she with Dimon when she was the Attorney General of California during negotiations over a legal settlement with the five biggest mortgage banks in the country.

'We were like dogs in a fight,' she wrote about the conversation that began with she and Dimon yelling at each other. She wrote that she took off her earrings before she picked up the phone to talk with Dimon, which was a sign of 'the Oakland in me.'

'As temperatures cooled, I got into the details of my demands so that he would understand exactly what I needednot through the filter of his general counsel, but directly from me,' she concluded.

Harris ultimately settled the big banks case with the other Attorneys General, earning a $25 billion settlement for California.

After Trump was elected President in 2016, Dimon said he would work with the president.

'I would try to help any President of the United States because Im a patriot,' he said during a call with shareholders in 2017.

But he grew tired of Trump's antics as president, at one point almost challenging him to a presidential contest.

Dimon famously said in 2018 that 'I think I could beat Trump' in a head-to-head presidential election, boasting he was 'as tough as he is' and 'smarter than he is.'
Two bodies have been recovered from the Patapsco River following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

The two men, identified as 35-year-old Alejandro Hernandez Fuentez of Baltimore, and 26-year-old Darlene Rania El Castillo Cabrera of Dundalk, were brought to shore on Wednesday morning, police confirmed. Both men's families have been informed.

'The teams made a tragic finding shortly before 10:00 ET with a red pickup truck near the bridge' Ronald L Butler from Maryland State Police said at a briefing on Wednesday evening.

'Divers recovered two victims trapped within the vehicle' he told reporters.

'My heart, and the heart of the entire city of Baltimore, is with you and will be with you forever' Mayor Brandon Scott said of the victim's families.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said the ship's crew notified officials that it had lost power in the moments before the collision

The cargo ship Dali is stuck under part of the structure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after the ship hit the bridge

All six construction workers who were repairing potholes on the bridge when a cargo shipping container vessel crashed into it are presumed dead, with four bodies yet to be recovered. Two surviving workers were pulled out of the water on Tuesday.

The search for those missing began early on Wednesday morning after the Coast Guard called off its active search and rescue mission on Tuesday.

However, divers are now unable to safely navigate the waters due to the concrete and debris that has fallen into the water from the destroyed bridge, Maryland police said on Wednesday evening.

Police have used sonar scans and believe that the other vehicles are 'encased in superstructure and concrete.'

Details of the fatal incident are still emerging but earlier on Wednesday a port worker claimed that the Dali cargo ship which smashed into the bridge suffered a 'severe electrical problem' while docked in Baltimore days before.

Julie Mitchell, co-administrator of Container Royalty, a company which tracks cargo, told CNN the ship was anchored at the port for at least 48 hours prior to the deadly crash.

Following the devastation, she said: 'And those two days, they were having serious power outages they had a severe electrical problem. It was total power failure, loss of engine power, everything.'

Mitchell explained that refrigerated boxes tripped breakers on board the ship on several occasions, and mechanics had been trying to fix the issue.

She said she didn't know whether the problem had been fixed when the ship set off.

The 1.6-mile Key Bridge partially collapsed after the cargo shipping container vessel crashed into one of its support structures just before 1:30 a.m. Tuesday morning.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said the ship's crew notified officials that it had lost power in the moments before the collision.

Mitchell told CNN that major power problems on board large vessels like the Dali are 'not really that common at all', describing the freak incident as 'very rare'.

Six workers who were on the bridge, pouring concrete to fix potholes as part of a graveyard shift, remain missing and are presumed dead

The Dali cargo ship which smashed into the Key Bridge suffered a 'severe electrical problem' while docked in Baltimore days before, according to a port worker

The first of the six: Miguel Luna, 49, was the first missing construction worker identified following the collapse

'They shouldn't have let the ship leave port until they got it on under control,' she said.

It has been widely reported that the Dali suffered a loss in propulsion which caused steering issues in the lead-up to the crash that caused the iconic bridge to collapse like a 'house of cards.'

One officer on the Dali also said that before the crash, the engines 'coughed and then stopped.' There was not enough time before the ship hit the bridge to drop anchors prompting the vessel to drift.

'The vessel went dead, no steering power and no electronics... The smell of burned fuel was everywhere in the engine room and it was pitch black,' the officer said.

When a ship such as the Dali loses power, backup generators kick in but they do not fulfill all of the same functions as the main power, Pagoulatos said.

In 2016, the Dali was involved in an accident in the port of Antwerp.

The Antwerp port authorities said the container ship Dali hit a quay on July 11, 2016, as it tried to exit the North Sea container terminal.

A 2016 inspection of the vessel conducted in Antwerp found it had a structural issue, which was stated as 'hull damage impairing its seaworthiness,' according to data published on Equasis, a public database for the shipping industry.

Maynor Suazo, 37, a native of Honduras has been named as the other man missing and presumed dead

Julie Mitchell, co-administrator of Container Royalty, a company which tracks cargo, told CNN the ship was anchored at the port for at least 48 hours prior to the deadly crash

Inspectors found a problem with the Dali's machinery in June, but a more recent examination did not identify any deficiencies, according to the shipping information system Equasis.

The port authorities said the ship had remained at the dock for repairs for some time after the incident.

'As a general rule, these accidents are investigated and ships are only allowed to leave after experts have determined it is safe for them to do so,' a spokesperson for Antwerp port told Reuters.

Video footage on social media showed the vessel slamming into the bridge in darkness, the headlights of vehicles visible on the span as it crashed into the water and the ship caught fire.

Paul Wiedefeld, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation, said at a press briefing on Wednesday that the state 'intends to receive federal dollars very quickly' to begin reconstruction.

'We will come up with a design for the replacement of that bridge as quickly as possible to get the port back up and the community back up and running,' he said.

The Port of Baltimore handles more automobile cargo than any other U.S. port - more than 750,000 vehicles in 2022, according to port data.

The collapsed bridge will now cause more chaos for an overstressed supply chain and could hike prices for months to come.

The port creates $2.6 billion in business income, $3.3 billion in wages, and nearly $400 million in taxes a year, according to the Maryland Government.

Photos showed at least a dozen large ships sitting in the Chesapeake Bay waiting for instructions about which port they would be rerouted to

This aerial image shows container ships anchored in the Chesapeake Bay off Annapolis

Each green dot is a large container ship or tanker stuck in the Chesapeake Bay, unable to enter the Port of Baltimore

Experts estimated more than $15 million in local economic activity would be lost for every day the port stays shut.

Over the next few weeks, 107 vessels scheduled to dock in Baltimore will have to find another port - and far more the longer the harbor is closed.

Baltimore handled 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo last year worth about $80.8 billion, ranking ninth in the US for both metrics and records for the port.

The cost to shipping, consumers, and the American economy is too early to calculate, but every day the port is closed is $217 million worth of cargo not arriving.

The port generates more than 15,000 jobs, including 2,000 dock workers down $2 million a day in lost wages, and another 140,000 are dependent on port activity.
Authorities have identified a mother and her young child found dead at their Florida residence after allegedly being murdered by the father.

The pair, Sara Gama, 38, and her two-year-old son, Ethan, were found dead inside the family's $850,000 home in Plantation, a city west of Fort Lauderdale in the South Florida metropolitan area.

Police say the father, Jean Carlos Aponte, 40, is the primary suspect in the double murder.

He was found unconscious in the family's home, having apparently attempted suicide by overdosing on pills. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was listed in critical condition.

Sara Gama, 38, and Jean Carlos Aponte, 40. Aponte allegedly killed Gama and their son, Ethan, a two-year-old at the family's home in Plantation, Florida

There were reportedly four people living in the house at the time of the tragedy: the couple, Ethan, and a newborn baby.

On Wednesday, investigators canvassed the residential neighborhood, asking those in the area if they'd witnessed anything leading up to the double murder.

Authorities were also spotted removing boxes from the house, according to NBC Miami.

Shortly before noon on Wednesday, the Plantation Fire Rescue department arrived at the house and divers were spotted entering the body of water behind the home.

Neighbors say the nuclear family unit had resided in the home for about five years.

One neighbor, Andy Hyman, told the outlet: 'It saddens me deeply. I really dont know what motivation anyone could have for doing such a heinous thing.'

Another neighbor shared footage from a Ring camera of Aponte going for a walk with his toddler a day before the murders.

A third neighbor said: 'All I can think is maybe he was on pills or something for PTSD? I dont know.

'But I did see him on Monday walking his son down my street. He seemed fine. He was walking his son like he always does. He was a nice guy who was always with his son.'

On Wednesday, emergency crews were spotted diving in the body of water behind the family's house - the bodies were discovered Tuesday

Amonte and Gama had just welcomed a second child together at the time of the murders. Neighbors say Gama had given birth just a couple of months ago

The tragedy took place at the family's $850,000 family home in an upper-middle-class suburb of southern Florida

Months before the killings, Amonte, a very pregnant Gama, and Ethan are pictured in a family holiday card photo

Neighbors said the newborn baby was picked up by the children's grandparents following the murders.

'We were just here yesterday. Devastation. How does this happen? I dont know, he was so nice. Lovely people. She just had a baby,' said one neighborhood resident.

'I'm devastated, they were very nice people ... my grandchildren played with Ethan. I'm devastated.'

Neighbors say Aponte is a military veteran who does not drink, spent lots of time with his family and on the appearance of his house.

It is not yet known how the mother and her child were killed.
Former Senator Joe Lieberman, a former Democratic senator who was Al Gore's running mate and later became a prominent force for independent candidates has died at 82.

Lieberman, from Stamford, Conn., served in the U.S. Senate from 1989-2013, overlapping with Joe Biden's political career during his four terms in the chamber.

He died in New York City from complications from a fall.

'His beloved wife, Hadassah, and members of his family were with him when he passed,' according to a family statement. 'Senator Lieberman's love of God, his family and America endured throughout his life of service in the public interest,' it said.

He was a co-founder of the group No Labels, which is seeking to get a ticket to challenge the major party candidates on the ballot in all 50 states.

Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Al Gore, left, and his running mate, vice presidential candidate Sen. Joe Lieberman, of Connecticut, wave to supporters at a campaign rally in Jackson, Tenn., Oct. 25, 2000. Lieberman, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, died Wednesday, March 27

Sen. Joseph Lieberman (D-CT) arrives with his wife Hadassah at the Kennedy Center for a tribute concert for Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-MA) on Mar. 8, 2009 in Washington, DC

Former Democratic vice presidential candidate, former Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman, an No Labels co-chairman, introduces Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump to speak at a No Labels Problem Solver convention, Monday, Oct. 12, 2015, in Manchester, N.H

He became the first Jewish major party nominee in 2000, when George W. Bush captured the White House.

He was unsuccessful in his bid for the Democratic Party nomination in 2004 amid a split in the party over his support for the Iraq war.

He switched to become an independent in 2006, and ended up endorsing longtime friend John McCain in 2008, speaking for him at the Republican National Convention. McCain had considered him as a potential running mate as an iconoclastic pitch to the center, instead settling on Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

'Connecticut is shocked by Senator Liebermans sudden passing,' said Connecticut Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy, who holds Liberman's old seat, said in a statement.

'In an era of political carbon copies, Joe Lieberman was a singularity. One of one. He fought and won for what he believed was right and for the state he adored. My thoughts are with Hadassah and the entire family.'

Lieberman helped fire up Democrats when Gore made history with his selection in 2000, often relying on humor on the campaign trail and debating Dick Cheney.

Lieberman pictured in 1994 with Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa. He also served with Joe Biden

Former Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut wrote a book about a Connecticut power broker, and said of Biden: 'I haven't seen him be able to do enough of it now as president'

Lieberman was Al Gore's running mate in 2000, served 24 years in the Senate, and became an Independent. Here Lieberman talks with reporters as he walks through the Senate subway in Washington on Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Liebeman helped found the No Labels group seeking to field a presidential candidate against the two major parties

Lieberman and wife Hadassah seen before Lieberman was offered the vice presidential nomination

Lieberman endorsed Republican John McCain, a friend a legislative partner. Here he is seen with McCain, Cindy McCain, Hadassah, and McCain's mother Roberta

He reached the near pinnacle of Democratic politics, but was defeated in the disputed 2000 election, then drifted away from his party

Lieberman, D-Conn., kisses his wife Hadassah during a rally in downtown Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2000, at a rally announcing Lieberman as Gore's running mate

Lieberman, accompanied by his wife, Elizabeth Haas, gives a kiss to the casket of Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., as he lies in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol, on August 31, 2018 in Washington, DC.

Politicians Al Gore and Joe Lieberman and wife Hadassah Lieberman attend the press conference for Democratic National Convention on August 16, 2000 in Burbank, California

Hey partnered with McCain on key legislation in the Senate, but would later infuriate fellow Senate Democrats as he moved away from the party. But he also backed up the party's policies on abortion, civil rights, and gay rights.

He began to drift away from Biden early, telling DailyMail.com in 2021 that Biden needed to become more of a 'power broker.'

'I must say that I haven't seen enough of that yet,' he told DailyMail.com in an interview in October that year.

He said he was 'proud to support' Biden in 2020.

He complained that his last two years in the Senate, as an independent during the Obama administration, were the 'most partisan and the least productive.'

His late-in-life career took him to the law firm of Kasowitz, Benson, Torres & Friedman, where partner Marc Kasowitz represented Trump during the Russia probe.

He recently told CNBC he felt 'terrible' when special counsel Robert Hur issued his report on Biden.

I think that's just going to get worse doing the campaign,' he said, after the report's language on memory lapses.

'As a friend, he's not going to listen to me ... I just wish he would decide it's time to leave the stage with honor and dignity and not let himself get smeared during this campaign,' he said.

His funeral was planned for Friday Stamford, his hometown.
Senator Tommy Tuberville has since slammed Biden online for aiding the 'monsters' responsible for such crimes on X

The girl was 'mentally incapacitated' and unable to consent to sexual intercourse with 23-year-old Pablo Mendoza

An illegal migrant has been charged with raping a 14-year-old girl in Coffee County, Alabama

An illegal migrant allegedly raped a 14-year-old girl who was 'mentally incapacitated' in Alabama as the state's senator slams Biden for aiding the immigrants he refers to as 'monsters'.

Pablo Mendoza, 23, is being held without bond in the Coffee County Jail after police charged him with the rape of a 14-year-old girl.

The girl was unable to consent to sexual intercourse with Mendoza because she was 'physically helpless or mentally incapacitated' and under the legal age of consent, which is 16 in Alabama.

Mendoza is illegally living in the United States, according to Coffee County sheriff Scott Byrd, and will be deported back to his home country after his case is finished.

Alabama's Republican Senator, Tommy Tuberville, slammed Biden on X after the charges came to light.

Pablo Mendoza, 23, is being held without bond in the Coffee County Jail after police charged him with the rape of a 14-year-old girl

Alabama's Republican Senator, Tommy Tuberville, slammed Biden on X after the charges came to light

'@JoeBiden is aiding and abetting these monsters #SayHerName,' Tuberville wrote

'This is Pablo Mendoza,' Tuberville posted, along with a mugshot of the alleged criminal.

'He is an illegal alien who was just arrested in South Alabama for raping a mentally incapacitated 14 year old girl,' the post continued.

'@JoeBiden is aiding and abetting these monsters #SayHerName,' Tuberville wrote.

The Alabama senator's criticism comes after a slew of recent crimes committed by illegal migrants.

In Georgia, 22-year-old Laken Riley was killed while jogging in a park on the University of Georgia campus on February 22.

Jose Ibarra, 26, a Venezuelan citizen illegally living in the U.S., was charged with her murder - as well as aggravated battery, aggravated assault, false imprisonment, kidnapping, hindering a 911 call and concealing the death of another.

Riley has become the face of immigration reform for conservative politicians since her tragic murder last month.

Jose Ibarra, 26, a Venezuelan citizen illegally living in the U.S., was charged with her murder - as well as aggravated battery, aggravated assault, false imprisonment, kidnapping, hindering a 911 call and concealing the death of another

Brandon Ortiz-Vite, 25, has been charged with the murder of a 25-year-old woman from Grand Rapids, Michigan, whose body was found on a highway

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene shouted from the gallery 'Say her name,' at Biden's State of the Union address, the same phrase that Tuberville used in his recent Biden-bashing online

At the State of the Union address, Biden held up a pin with Riley's name on it as U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene shouted from the gallery 'Say her name,' the same phrase that Tuberville used in his recent Biden-bashing online.

On Friday March 22, an illegal immigrant allegedly shot and killed Ruby Garcia, whose body was left at the side of highway U.S. 131 in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The suspect is Brandon Ortiz-Vite, 25, who was previously deported during the Trump administration - but was since able to re-enter the U.S. illegally .
The search for a two-year-old girl who vanished from her daycare has ended after she was found safe and well on the NSW north coast.

Bailey Wolf went missing from her daycare centre on Central Road in Miranda, south-east Sydney, about 9am on Tuesday.

It was understood she may have been travelling with her father in a black Ford Territory SUV.

NSW Police believed the pair were seen in the area of a shopping centre on Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park, about 9.50am on Wednesday.

After police inquiries and a public appeal for assistance, Bailey was located about 3.50pm on Wednesday in Taro, near Port Stephens, on the mid NSW north coast.

Police and family held serious concerns for Bailey's welfare due to her young age.

After police inquiries and a public appeal for assistance, Bailey was located about 3.50pm on Wednesday in Taro, near Port Stephens, on the mid NSW north coast
Residents in Cambridge today blasted its left-wing Labour city council's 'woke' decision to order the removal of a controversial statue of Prince Philip after describing it as 'possibly the poorest quality work' ever submitted.

The 150,000 13-ft sculpture called 'The Don' - a towering bronze statue designed to pay tribute to the late Duke of Edinburgh's 35 years as Chancellor of Cambridge University - was built in 2014 and given a prime spot outside a city centre office block.

Last year, however, the statue was moved further down Hills Road and placed in front of a building owned by the Unex Group, a property developer based in Cambridge and London that commissioned the statue.

Cambridge City Council has now issued an enforcement letter ordering the statue to be torn down as it does not have planning permission to be placed outside Charter House, adding that it has a 'harmful material impact'.

Councillors claim that nearby residents living on Norwich Road want the statue removed adding that children 'get scared' passing the 13ft structure.

The 150,000 13-ft sculpture called 'The Don' (left) - a towering bronze statue designed to pay tribute to the late Duke of Edinburgh's (right) 35 years as Chancellor of Cambridge University - was built in 2014 and given a prime spot outside a city centre office block

Those who want it to stay called the move 'leftie, woke censorship'  and accused the council of 'jumping on the bandwagon' of removing statues of historical figures

Residents in Cambridge today blasted its left-wing Labour city council's ' woke ' decision to order the removal of a controversial statue of Prince Philip after describing it as 'possibly the poorest quality work' ever submitted. Pictured: Louise Hobbs

Lindsey Stemp (pictured), who has lived on the street for 40 years said: 'I think it's absolutely disgraceful that this chap is just allowed to dump a piece of art without permission from anybody'

But the move has divided the city with some demanding the artwork remain  while those living close to what they call the 'ugly' and 'embarrassing' monument to be taken away.

Those who want it to stay called the move 'leftie, woke censorship'  and accused the council of 'jumping on the bandwagon' of removing statues of historical figures.

One man who works on the street but asked to remain anonymous told MailOnline: 'I don't know why they are singling it out, I like it.

'I think it will be a shame to lose it, maybe they have an issue because it's Prince Philip, but I don't see the harm of recognising the royals with a statue.

'There is now censorship but we are all meant to have freedom in this country so we should be able to put up a statue of notable figures instead of jumping on the bandwagon of the historical ones that have been torn down in recent times.

'I think it could have something to do with personal opinions rather than the canvasing the public first. Maybe it should have planning permission and it's a shame they didn't think of it but the council have taken long enough to act on it.'

The move has divided the city with some demanding the artwork remain  while those living close to what they call the 'ugly' and 'embarrassing' monument to be taken away

A plaque under the sculpture reads: 'HRH Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh, Chancellor University of Cambridge 1977-2011'

One man who works on the street but asked to remain anonymous told MailOnline: 'I don't know why they are singling it out, I like it'

He added: 'The trouble is people jump on the bandwagon. Someone takes a personal dislike and then they use that for their own motives, and that individual obviously wants to use any excuse they can to get rid of it.

'They should canvas the public and ask what they think - after all they are public servants so they should be serving the public.'

Veronica Guasti and Gabriela Nica who work close to the statue added: 'We like it and we will be very sad if it goes - maybe they could take the bear away instead. They have the giraffes around the city so this one should stay.

'We see lots of tourists posing with it every day so it would be very sad.'

The statue which was created to represent Prince Phillip in his university robes has a plaque underneath it which reads: 'HRH Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh, Chancellor University of Cambridge 1977-2011.'

It was initially refused planning permission to be placed on Hills Road in 2014 after council workers described it as the worst piece of public art they had ever seen.

Victor Auy (pictured) who lives on the street said: 'It was illegal to have it erected in the first place as they did not have planning permission and if they reapplied for it, I don't think the council wanted it so it should be removed'

Veronica Guasti and Gabriela Nica (pictured) who work close to the statue added: 'We like it and we will be very sad if it goes - maybe they could take the bear away instead

They added: 'They have the giraffes around the city so this one should stay.' Pictured: The nearby bear

'We have seen it in its various reincarnations up and down the road, it's such a load of rubbish,' another resident called Lydia (pictured) added. 'It's ludicrous and insulting - it has nothing to do with Prince Philip

Elizabeth Large (pictured), who wants the statue to stay, added: 'It's art - it does not necessarily need to look human or like a person'

Public art officer Nadine Black said it was 'possibly the poorest quality work that has ever been submitted to the council.'

She added: 'It is not site-specific and is a work already purchased and has no relationship to this site. It is too large a scale for the context of the space it will be located within and will compromise the quality of the new development.'

The statue was originally attributed to Uruguayan sculptor Pablo Atchugarry, but he later disowned the piece.

The internationally renowned sculpture, whose pieces have been sold at Christies and Sotheby's in London, New York, Paris and Amsterdam, said the claims it was his work was 'an abuse.'

He said in 2014: 'I am not the author of this sculpture, and it is an abuse that they had used my name. I wish somebody would apologise to me for this misunderstanding.'

Bill Gredley, the chairmen of Unex Group who developed the piece, staunchly defended the work in 2014 and described it as a 'spectacular piece of art.'

Councillor Katie Thornburrow said this week that nobody 'seems to have a good word to say about it' and she will 'be glad to see it gone.'

She told MailOnline: 'About a year ago it was put in without planning permission, so it does not have the council's consent. It's out of scale, it's too big and in a very prominent position.

'We have had complaints from residents, the ward's councillors and parents of children who say it scares them. We have a lot of really interesting modern art in Cambridge but this one does not fit the bill or the standards we need here.

'It does not matter what the owner says it represents - we think it's completely out of scale for those in Cambridge, residents do not like it and it scares children, so that's reason enough.'

While some object to the council's plans and wish for the statue to remain, others have been calling for its immediate removal.

'We have seen it in its various reincarnations up and down the road, it's such a load of rubbish,' another resident called Lydia added. 'It's ludicrous and insulting - it has nothing to do with Prince Philip.

'We used to go to the ceremonies he would attend and he did not wear anything like that - for starters the stripes were horizontal. It's such poor quality.

'It's hideous and has not got planning permission so that should suffice [as a reason to remove it] but having said that the council has so much else it could be doing.'

Victor Auy who lives on the street added: 'I do not see the significance of erecting this statue.

'First of all it was illegal to have it erected in the first place as they did not have planning permission and if they reapplied for it, I don't think the council wanted it so it should be removed.

The statue was originally attributed to Uruguayan sculptor Pablo Atchugarry, but he later disowned the piece

The internationally renowned sculpture, whose pieces have been sold at Christies and Sotheby's in London, New York, Paris and Amsterdam, said the claims it was his work was 'an abuse'

Residents said that it was not the fact it was a statue of Prince Philip that upset them but the quality of the artwork

'It's not a stunning structure for me and I do not like the reputation of the late Prince Philip. If they want it gone I have no objection but the importance of him being awarded the statue is politics for me.'

Elizabeth Large, who wants the statue to stay, added: 'It's art - it does not necessarily need to look human or like a person.'

The statue's loudest critics, however, are those who live on Norwich Street - a quiet road filled with picturesque maisonettes where the average house sold for the overall average price of 702,750 last year.

Residents said that it was not the fact it was a statue of Prince Philip that upset them but the quality of the artwork.

Lindsey Stemp, who has lived on the street for 40 years said: 'I think it's absolutely disgraceful that this chap is just allowed to dump a piece of art without permission from anybody, without consulting us and dump it out of sheer arrogance.

An enforcement notice issued by the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service (GCSP) on March 5, said it appeared the sculpture had been erected within the last four years without planning permission.

The enforcement notice said it has a 'harmful material impact' on the appearance of the area and that it was contrary to policies in the Cambridge Local Plan.

It said the sculpture must be permanently removed along with its foundations and plinth within four months from April 11, unless an appeal is made beforehand.

The land must also be restored to its former condition prior to the sculpture's installation.

A spokesman for Unex group told MailOnline previously: 'Mr Gredley and others consider it is a rather spectacular bronze with a difference, namely the head and shape as cast together with the bronze being coloured black to resemble the academic clothing and mortarboard.

'Mr Gredley appreciates that art is subjective and therefore has no issue with those who do not like The Don.'

When asked if the council were considering taking down other statues in the area, such as the nearby bear statue a few metres from Prince Phillip's statue, the Councillor Thornburrow added: 'There are quite a few large statues appearing without planning consent, so enforcement officers have opened files on these.

'But this one is the most prominent and inappropriate, so we are tackling this one first.'

MailOnline has contacted Cambridge City Council and the Unex group for further comment.
Launch of shopping festival, promotional activities for S China's Guangxi to be held in Beijing

People's Daily Online) 16:20, March 27, 2024

The launch of an annual shopping festival and a series of activities aimed at promoting featured products from south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region will be held in Beijing on March 28.

Photo shows tea leaves harvested in Longsheng county, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Photo/People's Daily Online)

At the ceremony, Guangxi will release policies tailored for a better consumer experience featuring higher quality and greater convenience, including a trade-in policy for consumers to exchange old products for new ones.

It will launch the first overseas UnionPay card named after Guangxi together with Chinese card payment giant China UnionPay to improve the foreigners' consumer experience in the region.

Photo shows a bowl of Luosifen, or river snail rice noodles, a specialty dish from South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Photo courtesy of the Department of Commerce of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region)

The ceremony will also highlight the key industries of Guangxi, such as tea, automobiles, liquor, and fruits. Many local specialties and time-honored local brands will be promoted at the event through theatrical performances and interactive dialogues.

In the meantime, top e-commerce livestreamers with over 10 million followers will promote products from Guangxi at special livestreams dedicated to the region.

The ceremony will be live-streamed by the official accounts of People's Daily Online on major Chinese short video sharing platforms.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
FILE - No Labels Founding Chairman and former Sen. Joe Lieberman speaks in Washington on Jan. 18, 2024. Lieberman, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died Wednesday, March 27, according to a statement issued by his family. He was 82. Jose Luis Magana/AP FILE - Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Al Gore, left, and his running mate, vice presidential candidate Sen. Joe Lieberman, of Connecticut, wave to supporters at a campaign rally in Jackson, Tenn., Oct. 25, 2000. Lieberman, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died Wednesday, March 27, according to a statement issued by his family. He was 82. Stephan Savoia/AP FILE - Former Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman waves to members of the media as he leaves the West Wing of the White House in Washington, May 17, 2017. Lieberman, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died Wednesday, March 27, 2024, according to a statement issued by his family. He was 82. Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP FILE - Former Sen. Joe Lieberman of Conn., right, speaks with a reporter at the Capitol in Washington, June 22, 2021. Lieberman, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died Wednesday, March 27, 2024, according to a statement issued by his family. He was 82. Alex Brandon/AP FILE - No Labels leadership and guests from left, Dan Webb, National Co-Chair Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, and founding Chairman and former Sen. Joe Lieberman, speak about the 2024 election at National Press Club, in Washington, Jan. 18, 2024. Jose Luis Magana/AP

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP)  Former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died, according to a statement issued by his family.

Lieberman died in New York City on Wednesday due to complications from a fall, the statement said. He was 82.

The Democrat-turned-independent was never shy about veering from the party line.

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Lieberman's independent streak and especially his needling of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential contest rankled many Democrats, the party he aligned with in the Senate. Yet his support for gay rights, civil rights, abortion rights and environmental causes at times won him the praise of many liberals over the years.

In an era of political carbon copies, Joe Lieberman was a singularity. One of one," said Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy, a Democrat. "He fought and won for what he believed was right and for the state he adored.

Over the last decade, Lieberman helped lead No Labels, a centrist third-party movement that has said it will offer as-yet-unnamed candidates for president and vice president this year. Some groups aligned with Democrats oppose the effort, fearing it will help presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump win the White House.

The group on Wednesday called Lieberman's unexpected death a profound loss, describing him as a singular figure in American political life who always put his country before party.

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Lieberman came tantalizingly close to winning the vice presidency in the contentious 2000 presidential contest that was decided by a 537-vote margin victory for George W. Bush in Florida after a drawn-out recount, legal challenges and a Supreme Court decision. He was the first Jewish candidate on a major partys presidential ticket and would have been the first Jewish vice president.

Gore said in a statement Wednesday night that he was profoundly saddened by the death of his one-time running mate. He called Lieberman a truly gifted leader, whose affable personality and strong will made him a force to be reckoned with" and said his dedication to equality and fairness started at a young age, noting Lieberman traveled to the South to join the civil rights movement in the 1960s.

It was an honor to stand side-by-side with him on the campaign trail, Gore said.

Lieberman sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 but dropped out after a weak showing in the early primaries. Four years later, he was an independent who was nearly chosen to be McCains running mate. He and McCain were close pals who shared hawkish views on military and national security matters.

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McCain was leaning strongly toward choosing Lieberman for the ticket as the 2008 GOP convention neared, but he chose Sarah Palin at the last minute after ferocious blowback from conservatives over Liebermans liberal record, according to Steve Schmidt, who managed McCains campaign.

Lieberman generated controversy in 1998 when he scolded President Bill Clinton, his friend of many years, for disgraceful behavior in an explosive speech on the Senate floor during the height of the scandal over his relationship with Monica Lewinsky. Yet Lieberman later voted against the impeachment of Clinton.

While he had a tortured relationship with Democrats, Lieberman defended his partisan switches as a matter of conscience, saying he always had the best interests of Connecticut voters at heart. Critics accused him of pursuing narrow self-interest and political expediency.

In announcing his retirement from the Senate in 2013, Lieberman acknowledged that he did not always fit comfortably into conventional political boxes and felt his first responsibility was to serve his constituents, state and country, not his political party.

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During his final Senate speech, Lieberman urged Congress to look beyond party lines and partisan rancor to break Washington gridlock.

It requires reaching across the aisle and finding partners from the opposite party, said Lieberman. That is what is desperately needed in Washington now.

Nevada Sen. Harry Reid, who served as Senate Democratic leader, once said that while he didnt always agree with the independent-minded Lieberman, he respected him.

Regardless of our differences, I have never doubted Joe Liebermans principles or his patriotism, Reid said. And I respect his independent streak, as it stems from strong convictions.

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Privately, some Democrats were often less charitable about Liebermans forays across party lines, which they saw as disloyal. He bolted his party and turned independent after a 2006 Senate primary loss in Connecticut.

Liebermans strong support of the Iraq War had hurt his statewide popularity. Democrats rejected Lieberman and handed the 2006 primary to a political newcomer and an antiwar candidate, Ned Lamont, who is now serving a second term as Connecticut governor. Citing his Senate experience, congressional clout and support for the state's defense industry, Lieberman went on to win reelection to a fourth term as an independent.

Many of his Democratic allies and longtime friends, including former Sen. Chris Dodd, had supported Lamont in that election. Lieberman was candid about what he considered a betrayal by old pals such as Dodd, but the two men later reconciled.

In a statement issued Wednesday expressing condolences, Lamont said he and Lieberman eventually became friends after their grueling and contentious race.

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While the senator and I had our political differences, he was a man of integrity and conviction, so our debate about the Iraq War was serious, Lamont said in a statement. I believe we agreed to disagree from a position of principle."

When the race was over, we stayed in touch as friends in the best traditions of American democracy. He will be missed," he added.

After his rebound reelection in 2006, Lieberman decided to caucus with Democrats in the Senate, who let him head a committee in return because they needed his vote to help keep control of the closely divided chamber. But it wasnt long until Lieberman was showing his independent streak and ruffling his Democratic caucus colleagues.

He was an enthusiastic backer of McCain in the 2008 presidential contest, and his speech at the 2008 GOP presidential nominating convention criticizing Obama, the Democratic presidential nominee, struck a deep nerve.

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Lieberman cast Obama as a political show horse, a lightweight with a thin record of accomplishment in the Senate despite his soaring eloquence as a speaker.

In the Senate, during the 3 1/2 years that Sen. Obama has been a member, he has not reached across party lines to ... accomplish anything significant, nor has he been willing to take on powerful interest groups in the Democratic Party to get something done, Lieberman said at the convention.

Eloquence is no substitute for a record, he said.

Lieberman campaigned heartily across the country for McCain. Many Democrats considered it a betrayal of Obama and his former party colleagues.

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Joe Lieberman has said things that are totally irresponsible when it comes to Barack Obama, House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of California said in a radio interview during the 2008 race. In a message posted Wednesday on X, Pelosi called Lieberman a leader of integrity and patriotism while acknowledging they often disagreed on politics.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said Lieberman's death was devastatingly sad and speculated that McCain, who died in 2018, was giving him an earful about how screwed up things are.

After the election, there was speculation Senate Democrats might strip Lieberman of his chairmanship of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as payback. Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., chair of the Judiciary Committee, was among those who said Lieberman should lose his chairmanship. Leahy branded Liebermans attacks on Obama as beyond the pale.

But at Obamas urging, Senate Democrats decided not to punish Lieberman for supporting McCain and the GOP ticket. Obama was eager to strike a bipartisan tone for his presidency and giving Lieberman a pass helped reinforce that message. On Wednesday, Obama acknowledged they didn't always see eye-to-eye, but noted Lieberman had an extraordinary career in public service.

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Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent and staunch liberal, called Lieberman's convention comments a slap in the face for millions of Americans who backed Obama.

Connecticut Democrats considered censuring Lieberman. Longtime friend Nick Balletto, former chairman of the state party, acknowledged many were unhappy with Lieberman and noted that the discontent overshadowed everything he had done for the state. Before the U.S. Senate, Lieberman served in the state Senate and as Connecticut Attorney General.

He was the most genuine, honest, straightforward politician youd probably ever meet. What you saw is what you got, said Balletto. His issues were the issues of the people. ... He didnt move because it was where the wind wanted to be today. He stayed strong in what he believed in his heart and his mind.

Lieberman was known in the Senate for his hawkish foreign policy views, his pro-defense bent and his strong support for environmental causes.

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Five weeks after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, he became one of the first politicians to call for the ouster of Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein and later voted in favor of the military invasion of Iraq. His vocal support for the war would later help doom his candidacy in the 2006 Connecticut Democratic primary.

Lieberman tended to vote with Democrats on most issues and was a longtime supporter of abortion rights, a stance that would have proved problematic with conservatives had McCain chosen him as his running mate in 2008.

He played a key role in the legislation that created the Department of Homeland Security.

Lieberman grew up in Stamford, Connecticut, where his father ran a liquor store. Lieberman graduated from Yale University and Yale Law School in New Haven. As Connecticuts attorney general from 1983 to 1988, he was a strong consumer and environmental advocate. Lieberman vaulted into the Senate by defeating moderate Republican incumbent Lowell Weicker in 1988.

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After leaving the Senate in 2013, Lieberman joined a New York City law firm. His funeral will be held Friday at Congregation Agudath Sholom in his hometown of Stamford. An additional memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, have four children.

___

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Church leaders have been asked to explain the checks they make when offering support to asylum seekers who claim to be Christian converts.

The Home Office has requested details amid concerns conversion is being abused in the wake of the scandal over Clapham chemical attacker Abdul Ezedi.

A working group has been set up between officials and representatives of a number of Christian denominations  but it is understood churches have been 'reluctant' to engage on the subject.

A source close to Home Secretary James Cleverly confirmed last night: 'We have urged church leaders to share their mechanisms for how decisions to speak on behalf of an individual at a tribunal are taken and what criteria are applied to assess the validity of that conversion.'

The Home Office has requested details from church leaders amid concerns conversion is being abused in the wake of the scandal over Clapham chemical attacker Abdul Ezedi (pictured)

Ezedi (pictured, being baptised at a church in Jarrow) had been unable to answer basic questions about Christianity during interviews with asylum caseworkers. But the Afghan was granted asylum on his third appeal after receiving support from the Baptist and Roman Catholic churches

Ezedi was given a Muslim funeral and burial (pictured) despite claiming to have converted to Christianity

A source close to Home Secretary James Cleverly (pictured) confirmed: 'We have urged church leaders to share their mechanisms for how decisions to speak on behalf of an individual at a tribunal are taken and what criteria are applied to assess the validity of that conversion'

The Mail can also disclose that the Home Office is gathering data on the number of asylum seekers who converted to Christianity in the wake of the Ezedi affair. Ministers have ordered officials to measure the scale of the trend for the first time after Ezedi won refugee status after claiming to have abandoned Islam.

Ezedi had been unable to answer basic questions about Christianity during interviews with asylum caseworkers. But the Afghan was granted asylum on his third appeal after receiving support from the Baptist and Roman Catholic churches.

A source said: 'We have asked what sort of system they have in place for verifying someone's claim to have converted. The churches have been quite reluctant.

'They said "We are the experts on this, leave it to us". We are not satisfied with that. The ball is in their court to offer reassurance to the public and to us over the criteria they apply.'
Two teenage thugs who brandished machetes during a fight outside a city centre art gallery have been jailed.

Police were called to Weekday Cross, Nottingham, at around 12.30pm on January 31, after a violent brawl broke out between two groups.

A group of yobs in puffer jackets were seen wielding knives during the scuffle, which happened outside the Nottingham Contemporary art centre.

'Petrifying and shocking' Jordan Bazuna, 19, and Jack Bolton, 18, both from Nottingham, were jailed for their part in the fight.

Bazuna was sent to a youth offender institution for 16 months and Bolton was jailed for 18 months.

Two teenage thugs who brandished machetes during a fight outside a city centre art gallery have been jailed

Police were called to Weekday Cross, Nottingham, at around 12.30pm on January 31, after a violent brawl broke out between two groups

Jordan Bazuna (left), 19, and Jack Bolton (right), 18, both from Nottingham, were jailed for their part in the fight

No one was injured but both teenagers were identified by detectives on CCTV footage waving machetes around and threatening each other.

Both had pleaded guilty to affray and threats with a blade in a public place.

The judge, Recorder David Bedenham, said it must have been a 'petrifying and shocking' scene for anyone to witness and could have led to further serious disorder.

Detective Inspector Chris Berryman, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: 'This was an appalling incident, in the middle of the day, outside a busy city centre venue.

'Officers and members of the public will share a sense of revulsion to see knives being wielded in such a reckless fashion on our streets.

'Thankfully, no one was injured, but that is no thanks to Bazuna and Bolton who were identified as waving knives around and threatening each other during the altercation.

No one was injured but both teenagers were identified by detectives on CCTV footage waving machetes around and threatening each other

The judge, Recorder David Bedenham, said it must have been a 'petrifying and shocking' scene for anyone to witness and could have led to further serious disorder

One worker said at the time that it was lucky there were no visitors in the art gallery. He added: 'I was scared for my life'

'I hope the police response  which included public appeals, many hours of painstaking detective work and rapid arrests and charges  provides some comfort to anyone who witnessed it.

'I also hope the wider public are reassured by the sentences handed down in court.

'As a force we have always been very clear, we will not tolerate this sort of behaviour and any report of knives being brandished like this will always be met with a robust response.

'We need people to understand that carrying a knife does not protect you and can have devastating consequences for individuals and their families.

'The force's work to educate young people about the risks and consequences of knife crime continues through education sessions in schools or colleges, engagement work in the community and proactive policing.'

One worker said at the time that it was lucky there were no visitors in the art gallery. He added: 'I was scared for my life'.
A man has been rushed to hospital after he was shot in a car while waiting at traffic lights in Melbourne.

Shots were fired into the car near the corner of Commercial Dr and South Gippsland Hwy in Lynbrook in the city's south-east about 8.30pm on Wednesday night.

It remains unclear whether the man was driving or a passenger in the car.

A family member drove the injured man to hospital, where he remains in a stable condition.

Detectives are investigating whether an Audi found alight 18km away on Boundary Road, Narre Warren almost an hour later is linked to the shooting.

The man shot at was in a car stopped at traffic lights at the intersection of Commercial Drive and South Gippsland Highway in Lynbrook (pictured)

The car fire is being treated as suspicious.

Armed Crime Squad detectives have launched an investigation into the shooting the car fire.

'The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined at this stage,' a police statement read.

No arrests have yet been made.

Anyone with information is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers.
A campaigner for children in care has warned that 'lessons must be learned' after 'yet another child was lost to Britain's broken care system'.

Chris Wild told MailOnline that the murder of ten-month-old Finley Boden must serve as an urgent wake-up call for ministers to support the 'underfunded' care sector.

Tragic Finley was murdered by his drug addict parents on Christmas Day in 2020, just 39 days after being returned to the care of his mother and father Shannon Marsden and Stephen Boden.

The innocent infant was burnt and beat by his parents - leaving him with 130 separate injuries, including 71 bruises and 57 fractures that left almost every bone in his body broken.

Marsden and Boden, from Old Whittington in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, were found guilty of his murder and were handed life sentences in May last year.

A damning review into the lead-up up to baby's murder said Finley 'should have been one of the most protected children in the local authority area' but found 'significant shortcomings' in plans for him to be reunited with his parents.

Responding to the report, Mr Wild, who lost his father at the age of 11 and grew up in the care system, told MailOnline: 'Yet again another child lost to our broken system. "Lessons must be learned" yet no one seems to be putting these words into action.

Finley Boden was beaten to death by his parents just 39 days after he was returned to their care by social services

His parents, Shannon Marsden (left) and Stephen Boden (right), were jailed for a minimum of 27 and 29 years respectively for murdering the 10-month-old

Timeline of Finley's short life and contact with social services September 20, 2019: Marsden informs social care she is 20 weeks pregnant with Finley after 'concealing' the fact she was carrying a child October 2019: Social care begin court proceedings in relation to the unborn child January 16, 2020: Social worker visits the couple's address, finding holes in a bedroom door January 21, 2020: Unborn Finley is made subject of a child protection plan February 15, 2020: Finley is born February 18, 2020: Finley leaves hospital and is removed from the couple's care February 25, 2020: Boden and Marsden tell social care they want Finley back October 1, 2020: Family court directs Finley should be returned to care of his parents under an eight-week plan including unsupervised visits and overnight stays of varying durations November 17, 2020: Finley is allowed to live permanently with his parents November 19, 2020: New social worker visits home address and finds Finley has four-centimetre bruise on his forehead. They take his parents claims it was caused by an accident with a toy at face value November 20, 2020: Health visitor visits the address. They also take the excuse regarding his bruising at face value November 26, 2020: Health visitor tries to call Marsden to find out why Finley has not been registered with a GP but there is no answer November 27, 2020: Social worker makes unannounced visit to the home, but is forced to observe Finley through the window after getting no answer when knocking on the door for 10 minutes November 29, 2020: Boden and Marsden record video and pictures of Finley on their phone December 23, 2020: Social worker visits the property but doesn't go inside after accepting Boden's claim that Finley has Covid at face value. Moments later she sees Marsden appearing to buy drugs in the street but doesn't challenge her about this December 24, 2020: Finley is seen alive for the last time as he is taken out by his parents in Chesterfield. A planned visit by social services does not take place and a request for the duty social worker to attend the house is not fulfilled December 25, 2020: Finley is murdered Advertisement

'Unfortunately we can point the finger in the Finley Boden case and it points directly to an underfunded sector that fails to prioritise the safety of children even when all the evidence clearly shows this could have been prevented.'

Marsden and Boden inflicted 130 injuries on their son before he fatally collapsed at his family home.

He had been returned to their care on November 17 that year by a family court despite social services raising concerns over Boden and Marsden's drug use and the state of the family home.

After returning home, the child was subjected to a campaign of abuse and was found to have a multitude of injuries at the time of his death, as well as conditions including sepsis and pneumonia.

A Local Child Safeguarding Practice Review into Finley's death, published by the safeguarding children partnership on Wednesday, said while Finley's parents were responsible for his death, 'professional interventions should have protected him'.

Care home consultant Mr Wild highlighted that in January 2023, a care review was published with a number of recommendations 'that could potentially stop children and young people in our care system becoming victims of social neglect'.

He explained: 'The lack of funding is a safeguarding issue within itself and the astronomical pressure put on care professionals has caused a huge fracture throughout which inevitably increases the risk of keeping children safe.

'I have been lobbying central government for the past two years asking for immediate action and more importantly for the care review recommendations to be passed through Parliament.

'We need more Social Workers back in our communities and not behind a desk looking at data all day.

'Children are not KPI's. And due to the lack of resources mistakes are made and yet again we have another tragic story when it could have been easily prevented.

'Children in care are still children.'

Wednesday's review, which has been anonymised, said: 'In this instance, a child died as the result of abuse when he should have been one of the most protected children in the local authority area.'

It said the 'most significant professional decision' was that he should live with his parents, and concluded that 'the safeguarding environment in which that decision was made had been incrementally weakened by the decisions, actions, circumstances and events which preceded it'.

Most of what had been experienced by Finley in the final weeks of his life 'was unknown to professionals working with the family at that time', the report said.

But it added: 'The review has found, nevertheless, that safeguarding practice during that time was inadequate.'

It noted there had been a six-week period where a social worker was off sick and that during that time no social work visits to Finley or his parents took place.

The review acknowledged that Covid 19 regulations and their consequences had 'exacerbated' the couple's inaccessibility to professionals, but added that the local authority had accepted 'more could have been done to 'work' the case and to formulate the final care plan' in spite of the 'unique' pressures of the pandemic.

Finley Boden died on Christmas Day 2020 - just over a month after being placed back into his parents' care

Shannon Marsden pictured with her son Finley Boden before the innocent baby's death

Stephen Boden holding Finley, six weeks before the child's death on Christmas Day 2020

A court sketch of Stephen Boden and Shannon Marsden during their trial on March 1, 2023

It also emerged that Finley was also handed back to his drug addict parents at a 'pivotal' court hearing against the advice of social workers which was held remotely over the telephone because of the Covid pandemic.

The review revealed that at a crucial hearing before magistrates on 1 October 2020 the local authority argued that Finley should return gradually to his parents' care through a 'transition plan' over four months, during which time he would be monitored for his safety.

They also demanded that the parents be tested regularly for drugs and warned against the dangers of sending him back 'too soon.'

But the couple both wanted the youngster back more quickly with Boden claiming in a statement: 'Shannon and I have worked really hard to make changes.'

They also maintained that they had addressed their drug use with Shannon insisting that she had been 'given the incentive to quit completely.'

The review revealed that the hearing took place between Covid lockdowns when courts were still working remotely and that all parties argued their case over the phone. Marsden and Boden did not speak at all.

The review by Derby and Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Partnership also names the key figures involved that decided Finley's fate.

A report was submitted to the court by Amanda O'Rourke, Finley's guardian from Cafcass, the independent Children and Families Court Advisory Service, which was appointed to represent his best interests.

Despite acknowledging his parents drug use and domestic violence, she argued that he should be handed over to them within six to eight weeks because they had 'clearly made and sustained positive changes.'

The final decision was made by two magistrates, Kathy Gallimore and Susan Burns, who were assisted by a legal adviser.

They ruled that Finley should be handed back to his parents over an eight-week transition period which they deemed to be a 'reasonable and proportionate' length of time that would protect his welfare.

Mock up image of text messages the court heard were sent from the couple's phone

A baby bottle containing gone-off milk and cannabis found by police in the bedroom at the time of the death

They also ruled that Marsden and Boden did not pose an 'unmanageable risk' to their son.

The magistrates also did not order any further drug tests of his parents, despite requests from the local authority, and he came into their care on 17 November.

At their sentencing last year, Mrs Justice Amanda Tipples said Marsden and Boden were 'persuasive and accomplished liars' who 'brutally assaulted' their son.

Details of a Family Court order, made in October 2020 and disclosed to the media last year, showed that magistrates said Finley should be given back to his parents within eight weeks and without them being drug tested.

That was despite Derbyshire County Council telling the Family Court they had 'some concerns' over Boden and Marsden's cannabis use, asking the court for a four-month transition period in order to have 'complete confidence' in their parenting abilities.

The Family Court heard from the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) that the risk of harm posed to Finley by his parents was not unmanageable and did not require him to be placed out of their care 'in the foreseeable future'.

The safeguarding review found 'significant shortcomings' in relation to plans for family reunification, stating that 'positive assessments' of his parents' capabilities to care for him 'fell short of an adequate evaluation of the risks' to which he would be exposed.

Finley's parents' bedroom had been cleaned up when social workers visited. Pictured is the room before Finley's arrival

Photo issued by Derbyshire Police of their filthy bathroom at the time Finley was killed, with dirty clothes left in the bath

Responding to the safeguarding review, Cafcass said it was 'profoundly sorry that together we were unable to prevent' Finley's death and blamed his parents' deception.

The service said that at the time of the court decision in October 2020 'everyone involved - including his guardian - believed his parents had made and sustained the changes necessary to care for him safely'.

They added: 'What led to his death was the ability of Finley's parents to deceive everyone involved, about their love for him and their desire to care for him.

'No-one could have predicted from what was known at the time that they were capable of such cruelty or that there was a risk that they would intentionally hurt him, let alone murder him.'

The county council's executive director for children's services, Carol Cammiss, described Finley's death as 'a tragedy for everyone who knew him and everyone involved in his care'.

She said: 'Despite the significant Covid restrictions placed on our work at the time, we know there were missed opportunities for stronger practice and we apologise for that.'

Finley Boden was only ten months old when he died at the hands of his parents

Finley Boden died on Christmas Day after suffering prolonged abuse at the hands of his parents

She said the council had acted quickly after Finley's death to 'review and strengthen our systems and continue to monitor the way we work with babies and families' and that it accepts the findings and recommendations of the review 'and takes full responsibility for its actions in this case'.

She insisted the local authority 'is definitely in a stronger place' now and that learning from what happened in Finley's case 'has already been embedded'.

She added: 'That doesn't mean that we're complacent. We want to strive to be the best that we can be, and to provide safe services to all the children that we work with.'

The safeguarding partnership said it accepted the review's recommendations in full and will 'take the additional action necessary to further reduce the risk of a repeat of a similar incident'.

Its independent chairman and scrutineer, Steve Atkinson, said: 'We owe it to Finley to take action on the basis of the recommendations in the report.'

He said that while it cannot be guaranteed a similar case would never happen in future, 'we can significantly reduce the risk by taking on board and acting on the recommendations in the report'.

The review made 11 recommendations in total, including that the partnership carries out 'a multi-agency audit' of recent parenting assessments to consider their quality, for local public health commissioners of substance misuse services and the local authority to 'develop a working joint protocol'.

It also recommended that it is ensures arrangements are in place for effective local response to domestic abuse, with Marsden having been accepted during the court case as having been a victim of such abuse.
The Mayor of Houston says the city is 'broke' after overspending for decades.

Democrat John Whitmire, who was elected in December, gave the bleak warning at a City Hill meeting this week where he proposed a five percent cut across all city spending to alleviate the cash-flow problem.

'I think we can all agree that we're broke,' Whitmire said, before proposing the planned cuts.

'This gives us a chance to discuss the financial picture of this City. It is broken! It was broken when I got here, ' he said.

America's fourth largest city is spending more money than it's taking in, leaving it with a $160 million deficit, according to FOX 26 Houston.

'We are broke!' Houston Mayor John Whitmire, who took office in January, issued the warning this week at City Hall

Experts say the problem has existed for years, but COVID handouts from the federal government helped mask them.

'COVID really silenced the conversation because we got so much money from the federal government that we were able to make our budgets work, but really, this problem started 20 years ago, almost a quarter of a century ago, with the pension funds,' John Diamond, Center for Public Finance Director at Rice University, told KTRK.

Former Mayor Sylvester Turner, who just left office in January and presided during the pandemic, falsely claimed he was leaving the city with $420 million surplus.

'The budget surplus is largely thanks to $1 billion in federal recovery funds Houston received during the pandemic, which Turner has mostly used to cover city expenses while driving up its reserve account,' wrote the Houston Chronicle.

During his time in office, Turner who could not run again due to term limits, was criticized by former Mayor Annise Parker, financial groups and even the city comptroller for his handling of public funds.

Let me just say, the sky is not falling,' Turner told the local paper last year.

Sylvester Turner, who led Houston previously, served two terms in office and could not run again

Houston's cash-flow problem is so severe some firefighters are still waiting to be made whole on pensions and backpay (file image)

A 5% across the board cut in city services has been proposed, but it will not impact fire and police service

But local critics insist Turner wasn't telling the truth.

'This has been obvious to anyone following the city's finances for well over a decade,' Columnist and businessman Bill King told the local Fox station.

'The you-know-what would have hit the fan in the last administration had it not been for this incredible influx of federal dollars.'

A tax hike through a bond is expected in November.

'That's very likely what we're looking at, going to the voters this November and saying, "Here's the plan, here's what it's going to cost, and we're asking you to chip in,"'City Controller Chris Hollins said.

The city has been struggling to make firefighters whole, from meeting its contractual obligation to their pension, to paying backpay and wage hikes that have been promised years ago.

Whitmire's plan to settle with the first responders will cost taxpayers $650 million for over the next five years.

'I don't like a five percent cut now, but you have to make tough decisions, and folks put me in this position to make tough decisions, and I'm going to do my job,' Whitmire stated.

The city also gave away some of its revenue to the public transit system in the 70s.

'They spent $3 billion on light rail system that is performing horribly,' King explained.

Houston Fire Department EMS medics deliver a woman with possible Covid-19 symptoms to a Covid-19 overflow area at Memorial Herman Northeast Hospital on August 19, 2021

Houston's population is growing and is expected to rival Tokyo's with 31 million inhabitants by 2100, if current population trends hold

MoveBuddha projected what the top ten cities in America will be in 2100 based on current migration patterns.

H-town's money problems come at a time when the rest of the Lone Star State is swimming in cash.

The Republican state, well-known for not having a state income tax, saw a nearly $33 billion surplus last year-- more than the state budget of South Carolina.

Much of that is due to the hordes of people moving to Texas-- with projections saying Dallas could overtake New York as the most populous city in the country by 2100.

If population trends hold, Houston would replace Los Angeles as the second largest city in the US.

Despite all the newcomers, local leaders haven't been able to cash in on the new arrivals, like other cities and town.

Dallas and surrounding suburban cities are expected to be home to nearly 34 million people by the turn of the century-- making it the largest city in the nation

Critics say the city should not default to taxing residents when they could raise the money but cutting the fat inside city hall and selling an expensive art collection owned by the city.

'The first thing we need to do is find where the money is first as opposed to the typical liberal answer to every problem: raise taxes on the people,' conservative political analyst Gary Polland suggested.

One idea is charge for services like trash collection, which are currently free.
Owning a home is more expensive than renting a similar property in the majority of regions across Britain.

In nine out of 12 regions or nations across Britain that were tracked by Halifax, being a homeowner worked out more expensive each month compared to being a tenant.

These areas include, for example, the North East, where owning a home typically costs 1,030 a month in the form of mortgage payments, compared with the 907 outlay to rent.

By contrast, there are only three regions where owning a first home is cheaper than renting, and these are the South West, London and Scotland.

The only regions where it's cheaper to own rather than rent, are the South West, London and Scotland, according to the latest Halifax data

UK average monthly homeowning and renting costs by region Region Average monthly home-owning cost* Average monthly rent payment Monthly difference between home-owning and renting % Monthly difference between home-owning and renting  Annual difference between home-owning and renting  North East 827 801 -3% -26 -312 Yorkshire & the Humber 954 809 -18% -144 -1,731 North West 1,030 907 -14% -123 -1,475 East Midlands 1,081 936 -15% -145 -1,741 West Midlands 1,118 1,056 -6% -62 -744 East of England 1,546 1,353 -14% -194 -2,325 Wales 953 864 -10% -89 -1,069 South West 1,298 1,437 10% 139 1,663 South East 1,705 1,551 -10% -155 -1,859 Greater London 2,241 2,253 1% 12 148 Northern Ireland 779 692 -13% -88 -1,051 Scotland 953 988 4% 35 424 UK 1,231 1,258 2% 27 319 Source: Halifax

Overall, across Britain, the cost to first-time buyers of owning a home is cheaper, with the average outlay of 1,231 a month.

It compares to a cost of 1,258 a month for tenants - or 27 more a month.

However, this monthly difference in cost is the smallest gap between home ownership and renting recorded by Halifax since 2019.

The annual different in owning verses renting currently stands at just 319, and was at a similar level of 330 in 2019.

In 2021, the difference soared during the pandemic to 1,338, revealing how much more expensive renting was than buying the same type of property.

The biggest difference during the past decade was in 2015, when it cost 744 a month to rent a three-bedroom property, compared to 612 to cover the cost of owning. It led to annual difference of 1,581.

UK average monthly homeowning costs and rental payments Year Average monthly home-owning cost Average monthly rent payment Monthly savings for owners % Monthly savings for owners  Annual  difference home-owning v renting 2013 578 692 16% 113 1,361 2014 605 720 16% 116 1,388 2015 612 744 18% 132 1,581 2016 629 759 17% 131 1,570 2017 627 754 17% 128 1,533 2018 669 759 12% 90 1,082 2019 719 747 4% 28 330 2020 742 821 10% 80 956 2021 763 874 13% 111 1,338 2022 973 1,013 4% 40 476 2023 1,231 1,258 2% 27 319 Source: Halifax

The dream of home ownership remains increasingly out of reach for many first-time buyers due to high house prices and lenders requiring a large deposit.

Amy Reynolds, of estate agents Antony Roberts, said: 'Most people want to own their home, which is why politicians base entire policies on encouraging home ownership.

'The challenge in London is quite simply one of affordability - but with such high rents, it's the same challenge for tenants as it is for homeowners.

With the Bank of Mum and Dad the only reason many first-time buyers can get on the housing ladder, it is creating another two-tier system, one of wealth for those who have, and long-term renting for those who do not. Amy Reynolds - estate agent

'Renting in London can be a lot more expensive than having a mortgage on the same property so it is best to own, but where does the deposit come from?"

She said that the realities of the property market meant renting was now no longer a short-term alternative to buying a first home.

She explained: 'While home ownership remains a significant aspiration for many, the realities of the housing market, economic conditions and individual circumstances can influence the extent to which renting is perceived as a temporary step or long-term choice.

'For many, homeownership will remain just a dream and those people are trapped in a lettings system which isn't fully supported by the Government.

'Either the Government has to support landlords and reduce taxes so profits can be made, or need to provide adequate rental property themselves, providing stability for the many who have to rent long term.

'With the Bank of Mum and Dad the only reason many first-time buyers can get on the housing ladder, it is creating another two-tier system, one of wealth for those who have, and long-term renting for those who do not.'

Nine out of 12 regions or nations across Britain saw being a homeowner costing more than being a tenant

The calculations by Halifax were based on the cost of owning a three-bedroom home with a mortgage, compared to renting a similar type of property.

The average owning costs included mortgage payments and income lost by funding a deposit rather than saving, along with spending on household maintenance and repair and insurance costs.

They do not include one-off costs such as stamp duty, valuation and legal fees.

Regional differences

The cost to those owning or renting a three-bedroom property varies across the country.

The biggest savings available for those renting a home rather than owning one are in the east of the country.

In that region, tenants are on average 2,325 better off each year.

Tenants are also better off than first-time buyers in the South East at 1,859 on average, as well as the East Midlands at 1,741 and in Yorkshire and the Humber at 1,731.

Choice is restricted for those who are looking for areas where it is cheaper to own rather than rent.

The South West, London and Scotland are now the only regions where owning a first home is cheaper than renting.

The largest savings for first-time buyers compared to tenants can be found in the South West, where homeowners are 1,663 better off.

Kim Kinnaird, of Halifax, said: Our latest analysis shows that, in nearly all regions across the UK, first-time buyers are better off renting than owning a similar home.

'In fact, the only regions where it's cheaper to own rather than rent, are the South West, London and Scotland.

'We know home ownership can offer long term financial and living stability and that's why we believe it's an important step to take.

'However, elevated borrowing costs, alongside a lack of available homes to buy, is pushing ownership further out of reach for would-be first-time buyers in many parts of the country.

'This is why we're committed to helping first-time buyers fulfil their dreams of having a place to call their own.'
Between 13,000-16,000 feet under the sea, biodiversity researchers have raced to document whimsical, new marine life in advance of a green energy mining project.

Their latest finds include a bright pink 'Barbie pig'  a multi-legged 'amperima' sea cucumber that forages along the sea floor for dead plankton, called 'marine snow.'

Other specimens include an alien-like and perfectly translucent sea pig, dubbed a 'unicumber' and one of the deepest-dwelling vertebrates now known to science, the 'Rattail fish.'

The project hopes to develop an ecological census of this deep-sea region called the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), which happens to possess a vast reserve of potato-sized polymetallic nodules, rich in metal elements essential to advanced batteries.

'We can assume that many of these species will be new to science,' as one marine biologist working with London's Natural History Museum (NHM) explained.

'Sometimes,' she added, 'they have been seen/observed/known before, but not collected or formally described.'

The latest finds of London's Natural History Museum working with the SMARTEX seabed mining impact study includes the pink 'Barbie pig'  an sea cucumber that forages along the ocean floor for dead plankton, called 'marine snow' or more technically 'phytodetritus'

While the alien-like and perfectly translucent sea pig, dubbed a 'unicumber,' has been photographed before in previous 'seabed imagery surveys,' a physical sample of the species had not yet been collected - nor had the creature been photographed in high definition before

'For example,' that marine biologist, Regen Drennan, continued, 'the sea pig nicknamed the "unicumber" had been seen in previous seabed imagery surveys.'

'But not collected or imaged in high definition to the best of our knowledge.'

Similarly, researchers know little about the life cycle of the Rattail fish as few examples of the creature's larval young have ever been recovered for study.

WHY DO SCIENTISTS STUDY THE CCZ? The CCZ is one of the world's largest unexploited collections of rare minerals and metals like manganese, nickel, copper and iron. These are a target for seabed miners, who want to exploit them to make batteries and electronics. As a result, scientists are focusing on the CCZ to evaluate to what extent these activities will impact ecosystems. It is hoped their discoveries will be able to inform decisions relating to future seabed mining projects. Advertisement

But, the Rattail, with its large blue eyes, is known to have powerful senses for hunting food in the inky black depths of the ocean.

'It has a nose for rotting carrion,' according to researchers with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, 'and sensitive barbels on its chin detect small crustaceans or worms wiggling in the mud below.'

'Barbels' are what marine scientists call the catfishy, whisker-like filaments that protrude from the mouths of some fish.

As Drennan explained to news site IFLScience, foraging for food in the 3-mile depths of the CCZ is particularly hard because life is so spread out and sparse in this deep, dark, and inhospitable region of the Pacific Ocean.

Portions of the CCZ, between Hawaii and Mexico, extend down a dizzying 18,000 feet  or nearly as deep as the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro is high.

CCZ's low population density, she said, has made London NHM's survey more challenging as well.

'The distribution of these animals seemed to be quite patchy,' Drennan explained, 'the dominant sea cucumber on one ROV [remotely operated vehicle] dive might be completely absent at another location  with a different one more common.'

'In terms of density that we are used to, for example on land or [in] shallower marine systems,' she said, 'the deep sea in general (and this area of the CCZ) is characterized by very low population densities, largely because food is so limited.'

One of the deepest-dwelling vertebrates known to science, the 'Rattail fish' also found in the CCZ remains poorly understood because samples of the rare fish's larvae are hard to come by

The rattail fish, with its large blue eyes (pictured), is known to have powerful senses for hunting food in the dark depths of the ocean where, as one marine biologist notes, 'food is so limited'

Many of the researchers with London's NHM, led by deep-sea researcher Dr. Adrian Glover, caught their first good glimpse of the novel 'Barbie pig' while revisiting their ROV footage on a flight back east to Costa Rica.

The creature's pink-inspired name was proposed by PhD student Bethany Fleming with the UK's National Oceanography Centre in Southampton.

Although more research is needed to confirm, the sea pig appears to be a making its debut as a brand new species filmed by the team's high-definition imaging survey.

Another way that deep-ocean dwelling creatures, like the 'Barbie pig,' can be challenging to obtain and study is their fragility.

Outside their cold and dark habitat, where the water pressure is a staggering 7,200 pounds-per-square-inch of force, the bodies of sea pigs will disintegrate, dissolving into 'marine snow,' themselves.

READ MORE: World's largest deep-sea reef, 6.4 MILLION acres wide, discovered off Florida coast - and it's teeming with new species [Video] The deep-sea or cold-water coral ecosystem stretches nearly 311 miles from Miami, Florida to Charleston, South Carolina. The discovery was product of 23 submersible dives. Advertisement

Nevertheless, London NHM's team hopes to collect enough specimens to understand the CCZ's sparse and unique ecosystem.

'Lots of the specimens will be used for research,' PhD candidate Eva Stewart told IFLScience, 'looking at patterns of diversity across the seafloor in this area.'

'All the specimens that have been collected will be brought back to the museum.'

The scientists with London's museum conducted their research as part of a project called SMARTEX, 'Seabed Mining and Resilience to Experimental Impact.'

The UK-led effort hopes to determine (among more 'pure science' discoveries) what the environmental impact might be, if seabed mining kicks up giant plumes of deep-sea dirt amid its efforts to harvest CCZ's large cache of metallic nodules.

Many of the nodules, in fact, have lain unmoved on the ocean floor for millions of years.

But the mining concerns interested in the metals have emphasized that their planned work in the CCZ would have a small footprint.

'[90] percent of the world's exploration contracts for nodules are in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, which represent less than half of 1 percent of the global seafloor,' The Metals Company PR and Media Manager Rory Usher told IFLScience.

'But this represents the largest source of manganese, nickel, and cobalt anywhere on the planet,' Usher continued, 'and that dwarfs everything on land by many orders of magnitude.'

These heavy metals are highly desired core components for the batteries powering smartphones, laptops and electric vehicles. They're largely seen as essential to humanity's shift away from fossil fuels.

'There are enough metals in situ at two of the sites that would satisfy the needs of 280 million [electric, battery-powered] cars,' Usher said, 'which represents every car in America, or a quarter of the world's vehicle fleet.'
With the clocks set to go forward this Sunday, many of us will be dreading losing an hour of sleep.

And if you think putting the clocks forward each is a literal waste of time, you are not alone.

Top sleep scientists say that shifting the day by just an hour can have massive consequences and claim it should be ditched entirely.

From increasing cancer rates to making car accidents more likely, daylight savings can do a lot more harm than just ruining your lie-in.

Dr Eva Winnebeck, lecturer in Chronobiology at the University of Surrey, told MailOnline: 'Chronobiologists warn against the clock change to Daylight Saving Time  each spring or even permanently.'

Leading sleep scientists told MailOnline that daylight savings time leads to a large number of health issues and argue that it should be done away with completely

Problems linked with daylight savings time Putting the clocks forward each year has been associated with: Increased cancer rates

Worse performance at work

Misaligned body clocks

Sleep deprivation

Higher rates of traffic collisions

Higher risk of heart attacks

Greater incidence of suicidal behaviours

Lower life expectancy

Higher overall mortality Advertisement

In the UK, daylight savings time was first introduced in 1916 as a wartime effort to save electricity and provide more daylight hours for making ammunition.

Yet while Britons are no longer churning out tank shells, in the Spring and Autumn each year we still move our clocks one hour forward or backwards.

The argument is that, as the days get longer, shifting our days forward gives people more sunlight hours during their working days.

Proponents of this measure cite everything from lower crime rates in the evening to fewer deer being hit by cars as potential upsides.

However, many scientists say that the change is not only inconvenient, but is also actively harmful to our health.

The biggest and most obvious impact of the change is that we lose an hour of sleep the night the clocks go forward, and have to go to bed an hour earlier the next day.

For the vast majority of people, this will result in nothing more than feeling more tired than usual and the issue should resolve within a few days.

But having an entire nation of people suddenly all become slightly sleep-deprived is bound to have some consequences.

Experts warn that putting the clocks ahead one hour could do a lot more than ruin your lie in. The disruption to our sleep pattern could have serious long-term health effects (file photo)

When do the clocks go forward? The clocks change on the last Sunday of March each year in the UK. This year they will go forward on the 31st of March at 1am. Unfortunately, this means you will lose an hour of sleep going into Monday morning. Advertisement

One study found an increase in 'cyberloafing' - the act of spending more of the work day making unrelated searchers online - on the Monday after the clocks go forward.

Another study published in 2016 even found that judges in the US tend to give defendants sentences that are about five per cent harsher on 'sleepy Monday' following the clock change.

More worryingly, it has also been suggested that the risk of fatal traffic accidents increases by about six per cent following the Spring daylight savings time transition.

Estimates suggest that about 28 fatal accidents could be avoided in the US every year if daylight savings were abolished.

Dr Winnebeck said: 'The spring clock change, where we fast forward our clocks by 1 hour, is the clock change that is usually most disruptive to our health and wellbeing.

'Sleep loss can have many negative consequences - and with the clock change it affects millions of people at the same time!'

Having our sleep disrupted in this way can also have knock-on effects on our overall health.

Dr Megan Crawford, a sleep researcher from the University of Strathclyde and member of the British Sleep Society, told MailOnline: 'There's an increased risk of cardiovascular events, increased risk of suicidal behaviours... and increased mortality in the days after switching our clocks: those are all linked to the loss of that one hour of sleep.'

Dr Crawford says the British Sleep Society believes that standard time should be reinstated and used all year round due to the 'short-term impact of the clock change, the potential impact across the summer, and the detrimental impact of potential permanent daylight saving times.'

Our bodies need sunlight in the morning to adjust our circadian rhythms and we lose this during daylight savings time. This means that commuters in the summer, as shown here in London, don't get the chance to wake up before arriving at the office

Our bodies have a kind of internal clock called our circadian rhythm, which determines when we eat, when we sleep, when we are most active, and when our brains are at their best.

While the solar day is 24 hours long, the body's rhythm tends to be just a little bit longer.

This means that someone who lived in the dark would naturally wake up a little bit later each day as their biological clock comes out of sync with the solar day.

Humans are only able to keep our body clocks in line thanks to an initial dose of bright morning sun every day.

'We rely on a cue of bright light to bring them into line with the normal 24-hour solar cycle,' said Dr Sophie Bostock, a sleep scientist and founder of The Sleep Scientist.

'If we don't get that cue first thing in the morning, then we're lagging.'

Since daylight savings time gives us fewer hours of light in the morning, lots of people miss that initial bump of daylight that helps realign our body clocks.

Dr Bostock said: 'From a circadian rhythm perspective, there is definitely a case for ditching daylight savings time.'

There is a six per cent increase in fatal car collisions in the days after the clocks go forward, experts estimate the clock change could cost around 28 lives per year (file photo)

There is now a growing, if somewhat contested, body of evidence that this mismatch between the sun and our bodies can have severe long-term health impacts.

The main issue with testing how daylight savings affects us in the long-term is that we don't have a lot of data from times when we did not observe daylight savings time.

Dr Crawford sad: 'The best data we can draw on comes from health differences in individuals who live on different sides of a time zone, with poorer health in those who live on the western side.

'This is because the mismatch between the sun time and our clocks is greatest [in the West].

Studies have shown that those living in the West of a time zone have higher risks of leukaemia, stomach cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, and more.

Those in the west also experience lower life expectancy, higher rates of obesity, amd diabetes, and even lower income.

Since this mismatch is very similar to those experienced when the clocks go forward, some scientists say daylight savings might be having a similar impact.

Yet some scientists say the damage to our health might be even more direct.

Dr Rachel Edgar, a molecular virologist from Imperial College London, told MailOnline that these kinds of disruptions could even make us more susceptible to illness.

Dr Edgar says: 'Evidence from different animal models suggests that disruption to our circadian rhythms increases the severity of different infectious diseases, such as influenza A or herpesvirus.'

While she adds that more research is needed to see if this is the case in humans, she notes that 'body clocks can impact both virus replication and immune responses to these infections'.

She concludes: 'There is a broad consensus from scientists who work on circadian rhythms and sleep that any advantages of daylight saving time are outweighed by potential negative effects on our health and well-being.'
READ MORE: Flying taxis will take to the skies of Britain by 2028

Slovakia-based KleinVision has sold its flying car technology to a Chinese firm

From Harry Potter to The Jetsons, flying cars have been staple features of science fiction blockbusters for years.

But they're slowly but surely becoming a reality, with several firms vying to be the first to launch a commercially available vehicle.

One of those firms is KleinVision, the Slovakia-based developer of AirCar - the 'world's first certified flying car' which can transform from a road vehicle into a plane in under three minutes.

While the car is already certified to fly in Slovakia, the technology behind it has now been sold to a Chinese company, which KleinVision claims will 'accelerate progress towards mass-market flying car manufacturing.'

The news comes shortly after the UK government announced that flying taxis will be whizzing around British skies by 2028.

Flying cars are slowly but surely becoming a reality, with several firms vying to be the first to launch a commercially available vehicle. One of those firms is KleinVision, the Slovakia-based developer of AirCar

Flying AirCar specs Engine: Prototype 1 has a 160 horsepower fixed-propeller engine but Prototype 2 will be equipped with a 300 horsepower engine. Top speed: 300km/h (186mph) Range: 1,000km (621 miles) Price: Not yet revealed Advertisement

AirCar is a dual-mode craft, which can reach heights of more than 8,000ft and speeds of over 100mph.

It was certified to fly in Slovakia back in 2022 after completing more than 200 take-offs and landings during 70 hours of rigorous flight testing to European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards.

Now, the technology has been sold to Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Company for an undisclosed amount.

This licensing agreement grants the Chinese company exclusive rights to manufacture and distribute flying cars using KleinVision's technology within a 'specific' - yet undisclosed - geographical region.

'This partnership represents a significant step in our mission to expand global access to revolutionary mobility solutions and drive progress in the industry,' said Anton Zajac, co-founder at KleinVision.

Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Company is based in Cangzhou, and has already built its own airport and flight school.

AirCar is a dual-mode craft, and can reach heights of more than 8,000ft and speeds over 100mph

It was certified to fly in Slovakia back in 2022 after completing more than 200 take-offs and landings during 70 hours of rigorous flight testing to European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards

And the ability to use KleinVision's technology could help the company to get ahead of its rivals.

According to Morgan Stanley, the global market for flying cars is expected to hit $1 trillion in 2040, before jumping to a whopping $9 trillion in 2050.

China is on track to hold 23 per cent of the market by 2050 - second only to the US's 27 per cent share.

Speaking to Nikkei, Guo Liang, CEO of Chinese flying car developer Aerofucia, claimed that China's flying car revolution will 'surpass the electrification of cars'.

'The full-fledged commercialization of flying cars in China will begin in either 2025 or 2026,' Guo said.

While the pricing for flying cars remains unclear, Guo claims that they will quickly become more affordable than helicopters.

'As a new mode of low-altitude transportation, [flying cars] fares will be a third or a fifth of helicopters initially,' said Guo.

'It might be a little expensive for average people, but the costs will continue to go down.'
Gen Z and Alpha may have a larger brain than people who were born 100 years ago, yet studies have indicated they also have the lowest IQs of previous generations.

Researchers at the University of California (UC) Davis Health studied different brain sizes of people born from the 1930 through 1970s, finding a 6.6 percent increased in brains among Gen X compared to the Silent Generation.

The team theorized that growth could be caused by external influences like health, social, cultural and educational outside factors and could reduce the risk of age-related dementia.

It comes as more recent studies have indicated that even younger generations' IQ scores have dropped in recent decades, which researchers have linked to an overreliance on phones and the internet.

MRIs conducted over 100 years showed that brain size has increased by 6.6 percent and could reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's for younger generations

The volume of people's brains has steadily increased since the 1930s but reports indicate it does not impact the person's level of intelligence

Brain size doesn't necessarily make people more intelligent, and research has suggested that their is only a slight relationship between the two.

Neuroscientists have found that extra brain mass actually accomplishes very little when it comes to intelligence, and instead it serves to allow people to store more lifetime memories, according to Psychology Today.

However, the latest findings could be a contributing factor to why younger generations have a lower risk for developing dementia or Alzheimer's.

The new study was conducted across 75 years and found the brain consistently grew by 6.6 percent for people in the 1970s compared to those born in the 1930s.

Today's generation's brains measure about 1,400 milliliters in volume, but the average brain volume for people born in the 1930s was 1,234 milliliters.

The researchers reported that factors like greater educational achievements and better management of medical issues might explain why people's brains have grown over the decades.

'The decade someone is born appears to impact brain size and potentially long-term brain health,' said Charles DeCarli, first author of the study and professor of neurology at the UC Davis Alzheimer's Disease Research Center.

Researchers looked at patterns of cardiovascular and other diseases of people born in the 1930s and introduced MRI tests (brain magnetic resonance imaging) of people of the second and third generations of the original 5,200 participants.

The MRIs were conducted between 1999 and 2019 on people born in the 1930s through the 1970s, consisting of more than 3,000 participants with an average age of 57 years old.

Peopl aged 18-22 saw the the biggest drop in IQ tests between 2006 and 2018

The area of the brain that grew the largest was the cortical surface area which controls motor activities and sensory information.

READ MORE: Delving inside the mind: Incredible graphics reveal what each section of your BRAIN does - with more than 70,000 thoughts processed every single day Scientists have uncovered hundreds of different and unique regions of the brain Advertisement

They reported that the area increased by 15 percent in volume and the region of the brain involved in learning and memory, called the hippocampus, had also increased in size.

However, the number of people struck by Alzheimer's has decreased by 20 percent since the 1970s, according to a separate study, and researchers are now saying increased brain size may be the culprit.

'Larger brain structures like those observed in our study may reflect improved brain development and improved brain health,' DeCarli said.

'A larger brain structure represents a larger brain reserve and may buffer the late-life effects of age-related brain diseases like Alzheimer's and related dementias.'

The brain growth in younger generations could increase brain connectivity, the study said, which could lead to more accurate and efficient performances on tasks.

Yet, even as researchers report the brain is growing with each generation, Gen Z and Alpha's IQs have dropped by at least two points, according to studies in Finland, France, the UK and other countries.

A 2023 study reported that IQ scores in the US have also dropped, but did not specify the exact drop, adding that the decrease could be due to disruptions to in-person learning during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The researchers also said the rise in social media use could be at fault, as skills like verbal reasoning, visual problem solving and numerical series tests have all gone down.

Academic and science presenter professor Jim Al-Khalili previously told Dailymail.com in 2022 that despite our vastly increased scientific knowledge the human brain hasnt got bigger or more efficient or better than it was thousands of years ago.'

This is in direct contrast to the newest findings that the human brain is getting larger, but also raises the question of how cognitive development is increasing while gen Z and Alpha struggle to meet the same IQ levels as past generations.
FILE - This combo image shows Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump, left, March 9, 2024 and President Joe Biden, right, Jan. 27, 2024. Many Americans are unenthusiastic about a November rematch of the 2020 presidential election. But presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump appears to stoke more fear and anger among voters from his opposing party than President Joe Biden does from his. That's according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. AP

ATLANTA (AP)  Many Americans are unenthusiastic about a November rematch of the 2020 presidential election. But presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump appears to stoke more anger and fear among Americans from his opposing party than President Joe Biden does from his.

A new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research finds that Democrats are more likely to report feeling fearful or angry about the prospects of another Trump term than Republicans are about the idea of Biden remaining in the White House.

The emotional reaction Trump inspires may work in his favor too, though, since the poll also found that Republicans are more excited about the prospect of a Trump win than Democrats are about a Biden victory.

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Seven in 10 Democrats say the words angry or fearful would describe their emotions extremely well or very well upon a Trump victory. A smaller majority of Republicans  56%  say the same about a Biden triumph. About 6 in 10 Democrats cite both emotions when contemplating a Trump victory. Again, that exceeds the roughly 4 out of 10 Republicans who said they would feel both angry and scared about Biden prevailing.

The findings are notable in an unusual campaign pitting an incumbent president against his predecessor, with both men facing doubters within their own parties and among independents. Consolidating support from Republicans who backed Nikki Haley in the GOP primary could be a challenge for Trump. Biden faces disenchanted progressives to his left and concerns over whether his age, 81, is a liability in the job.

Excitement about the two candidates will be an important factor in a race where turnout from each sides base will be key. But dislike can motivate voters as much as enthusiasm.

If there was a third-party candidate who had a chance in hell I would vote for them, said Austin Healey, a 26-year-old Democrat. Healey, who describes himself as very liberal, said his mixed reviews of Biden take a back seat to his concerns that Trump's comeback bid looks like a clear ploy for trying to abolish democracy.

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Though he is not excited about it, Healey said, that means a vote for Biden.

Derrick Johnson, a Michigan voter who identifies as a liberal independent, offered plenty of critiques against Biden, as well. But the 46-year-old caregiver and food service worker made his bottom line clear: Donald Trump is a madman. Im afraid hell have us in World War III. My message is anybody but Trump.

Democrats intense feelings about Trump account for the overall differences in how Americans view the two rivals. Altogether, about 4 in 10 U.S. adults say fearful would describe their emotions extremely or very well if Trump is elected again, while roughly 3 in 10 would fear a second Biden term. About 4 in 10 U.S. adults said they would be angered by Trump winning in November while 28% said the same about Biden.

The polls findings on negative emotions could be especially important for Biden given his other weak spots, including that Republicans remain more excited about electing Trump again than Democrats are about reelecting Biden. Slightly more than half of Republicans, 54%, said excited describes their feelings about another Trump term extremely well or very well. For Biden, that number was just 4 in 10 among Democrats.

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We know what were getting with Trump, said Republican John Novak, a 54-year-old maintenance worker who lives in swing-state Wisconsin and counted himself among those GOP loyalists who would be excited by another Trump term.

I knew who he was when he came down that escalator in 2015, and we were never getting Boy Scout material, Novak said. But he put conservatives on the Supreme Court, he was firm on immigration ... and hes a conservative who handled the economy.

The latest AP-NORC poll showed Biden with an overall approval rating of 38%. U.S. adults also expressed discontent about his handling of the economy and immigration  and not all of the disapproval is driven by partisan loyalties. About 4 in 10 U.S. adults approve of Bidens stewardship of the economy, roughly equal to his overall job approval rating.

On specific issues, about 3 in 10 Democrats disapprove of Bidens handling of the economy; about 4 in 10 disapprove of his approach to immigration or border security.

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The situation at the border really bothers me, said Johnson, the Michigan liberal. The border crossings are just getting out of control.

The president and his campaign advisers tout the Biden administrations legislative record, especially on infrastructure, an improving economy and new spending intended to combat climate change. But the president and his allies are also unsparing in lambasting Trump as interested only in revenge and retribution for his defeat in 2020 and the pending criminal prosecutions and other legal troubles that have followed.

They have seized on Trumps praise of authoritarians like Russias Vladimir Putin and Hungarys Victor Orban and recirculated the former presidents statement that he would be willing to act like a dictator for a day to close the border and expand drilling for fossil fuel.

Trump has countered with searing attacks on Bidens mental acuity and physical fitness for the presidency and even mocked Bidens stutter. But the latest poll results suggest Trump has not yet maximized the potential benefits of those attacks  or perhaps that they simply have a lower yield for him.

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Biden sometimes turns his version of the argument into a humorous quip he used often in 2020, when he was vying to unseat Trump: Dont compare me to the Almighty, compare me to the alternative.

Indeed, that is what resonates with reluctant Democrats and some independents.

I voted for Trump (in 2016) because I wanted somebody to shake up Washington, said Neil Murray, a 67-year-old retiree in Jonesboro, Arkansas, who identifies as an independent. He certainly did that, but he couldnt do anything productive with it.

Frustrated with Trumps negative qualities that he overlooked in 2016, Murray voted for Biden in 2020  but not enthusiastically. He called Biden disingenuous on some things and too close to his left flank on economic policy.

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But in November, Murray said, he will have no reservations when casting a second vote for the Democrat, because, Donald Trump is a screaming lunatic.

___

Sanders reported from Washington.

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YouTube pranksters claim to have exposed how social media giants are allowing adverts for vapes, knives, alcohol and gambling to children.

In their latest stunt, popular duo Josh and Archie, who have 1.5million followers, filmed fake ads and paid to post them on Instagram, TikTok and X.

Despite a ban on the products being advertised to teens, all  including one by a fake firm called 'Stabby Stabby Choppy Choppy Kitchen Knives'  passed at least one of the platforms' review processes and went live.

Advertising data showed the YouTube duo were able to reach tens of thousands of teenagers, with many clicking through to websites to try and buy the over-18 products.

Social media platforms make nearly 9billion a year from advertising directed at children and teenagers, according to a Harvard University study last year.

In their latest stunt, popular duo Josh and Archie, who have 1.5million followers, filmed fake ads and paid to post them on Instagram , TikTok and X

READ MORE: YouTubers fly to Poland to do their shopping... and discover they spend less than they would have in a supermarket in Britain Advertisement

Co-host Archie Manners said their latest experiment was aimed at finding out 'how much effort platforms really make' in stopping young people from being shown unhealthy adverts - 'It turns out not very much at all'.

The YouTubers  who host the Mail's podcast 'Straight to the Comments!'  set up five companies with provocative titles, such as vape firm 'HELF BARS', another for bongs called 'Flower pots for weed(s)', and one for alcohol called 'Grape Juice'.

They then filmed adverts for each, where they showed off the products in the style of children's television show presenters but with provocative tag lines such as 'the healthy alternative to anti-depressants'.

After this, they then attempted to upload each on to Instagram, TikTok, and X, with the viewing age set to 13-years-old and over, to see how many under-18s would be recommended the content.

Advertising data showed the YouTube duo were able to reach tens of thousands of teenagers, with many clicking through to websites to try and buy the over-18 products

READ MORE: How YouTube pranksters tricked an unmanned Amazon 'smart' store into not charging them for their food by simply replacing it on the shelves with bags of SAND weighing the same amount Advertisement

All five went up immediately on X, according to the YouTubers, while Instagram allowed them all on the platform but after a longer review process.

On TikTok, where all the products are banned, four of the ads were rejected.

However one of the adverts - Helf Bars, a fake vape company - passed the review checks.

The ad cost 24 and received 12.2k views before the YouTubers said they took it down two days later.

Combined, the adverts  which cost just 319 - were seen over 100,000 times  and 85 per cent of these were aged between 13 and 17.

On the video, co-host Josh Pieters says: 'So it looks like social media companies really are more concerned with their revenue than spending money on, say, actually vetting their adverts  surprise, surprise.'

The adverts linked through to real websites, but they did not have live shops so no one could actually buy the products.

The adverts linked through to real websites, but they did not have live shops so no one could actually buy the products

Instagram says it bans all the products that were advertised by the YouTubers.

It uses an algorithm  and sometimes humans - to review and monitor adverts when they go up on the platform.

Advertisers are meant to be restricted if they don't comply, however it admits: 'Our review process may not detect all policy violations, and ads remain subject to review and re-review and may be rejected for violating our policies at any time.'

TikTok said the video 'deliberately misrepresents the facts' and that its ad policies had been 'enforced correctly'.

The tech giant said it does not allow misinformation that could 'significantly harm' users or society and products that are 'controversial, distasteful, violent, or dangerous', including weapons.

All adverts pass through 'multiple levels of review' before being approved, though it openly admits it 'won't catch every instance of violative content'.

X was contacted for comment.
West Virginia's governor has rejected a bill that would have expanded the use of solar energy to thousands of residents, saying it would hurt the state's coal industry.

Republican Jim Justice vetoed the HB 5228 bill, which was passed by the House and Senate, because it would 'endanger' the nation's energy security and put coal miners out of work.

The state hosts the second-largest coal industry in the nation and annually provides 84,000 tons of coal-fueled energy to the US.

While Justice may have his citizens in mind when be vetoed the bill, his family owns more than 100 coal mines in West Virginia and many are struggling to stay alive.

West Virginia Governor Jim Justice vetoed a bill to expand an existing solar energy farm, claiming it would cost consumers more than coal-fueled energy

The HB 5228 bill would have expanded West Virginia 's solar plants that fuel the state's electrical utilities from 50 megawatts (MW) to 100 MW, which would power 17,300 homes

The HB 5228 bill would have expanded West Virginia's solar plants that fuel the state's electrical utilities from 50 megawatts (MW) to 100 MW.

A 50 MW solar farm could generate enough electricity to power between 10,000 homes while 100 MW would increase the range to power 17,300 homes, according to MarketWatch.

Currently, coal-fired plants supply over 90 percent of electricity generation to citizens and businesses of West Virginia.

The six Republicans and three Democrats who sponsored the bill argued that by created a program to develop renewable energy would lead to a rise in economic development, increase jobs and lower electricity costs.

And the bill passed the House 61-36 and the Senate 32-1.

Despite Justice's claims that solar energy will impact the working man and increase costs for West Virginians, the governor built his business empire on the coal industry, and state financial disclosures show his family owns more than 100 businesses.

However, his businesses are facing hard times and struggling to pay their bills, prompting a string of lawsuits that have ordered the Justice family's coal companies to stop mining activities.

Yet in his veto letter, Justice expressed concerns that passing the bill would raise energy costs for consumers and could 'further endanger our nation's energy security and put West Virginians at the mercy of the national power grid to ensure we keep the lights on at home,' Justice wrote in a letter announcing his decision.

Justice claimed that expanding renewable energy infrastructures in place of coal-fueled energy would encourage companies to turn to out-of-state alternatives that would raise the energy costs for consumers, although he did not specify how.

'The ripple effect of such drastic and rapid change could lead to West Virginians paying more on their power bills, as these entities try to pass their cost increases down the chain to the consumer,' he continued.

'It could also lead to job loss by putting coal mines and generating facilities out of business quickly.'

While Justice appeared quick to shut down solar plant expansion, the governor moved forward with plans for an iron air battery factory in 2022.

The state hosts the second-largest coal industry in the nation and annually provides 84,000 tons of coal-fueled energy to the US

Iron air batteries mix water, oxygen and iron to create more cost effective units - but have an efficiency of less than 50 percent.

Construction of the Form Energy plant in Weirton concluded last month, which was once a booming steel mill.

And last year, Justice approved Mountaineer GigaSystem and the Monarch Cloud Campus for data centers powered by net-zero hydrogen, which will be used for datacenters, greenhouses, transportation and steel production.

The projects four-phase construction plan will provide substantial employment opportunities for the local workforce, with 800 full-time jobs and 4,200 construction workers when operations start in 2028.

Approving such initiatives has suggested that Justice is not against renewable energy, just those we believes could hurt his state.

Justice called the bill 'well-intentioned,' but said it will 'further encourage these companies to drop coal-generated power and continue to turn toward more expensive options outside of West Virginia.'

READ MORE: Justice Department SUES son of West Virginia Republican Gov. Jim Justice to collect $5 million in unpaid fines from 13 mining companies Environmental groups howled after permitting for the Mountain Valley Pipeline showed up in the budget deal Advertisement

In May of last year, the US Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the West Virginia governor and his son, James C. Justice III, for failing to pay more than $7.6 million in unpaid penalties and fees associated with federal mine and safety violations.

Speaking about bill HB 5528, Justice said at a press briefing: '... What I think is going on from the higher-ups that are incentivized to try to shove coal to the background, I don't like that.

'Really and truly, I don't like the fact that what we're doing is maybe something that's going to lead to a higher energy cost for our consumers in West Virginia, our households here. I don't like that either.'

Dailymail.com has reached out to Gov. Jim Justice for comment.

In the US, it costs about $36 to produce one MW per hour of electricity from a coal plant, while it costs about $24 to build enough solar panels to generate the same amount of electricity, according to the Energy News Network.

A 2023 study revealed that it is 99 percent more expensive to run US coal plants than it would be to build a completely new solar energy farm.

'Coal is unequivocally more expensive than wind and solar resources, it's just no longer cost competitive with renewables,' Michelle Solomon, a policy analyst at Energy Innovation, which undertook the analysis, told The Guardian.

'This report certainly challenges the narrative that coal is here to stay.'

Air-fired coal plants are a leading source of particulate matter that causes air pollution and is linked to asthma, cancer, and heart and lung disease.

The US Energy Information Administration estimated that coal-energy power plants account for about 20 percent of energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the US and nearly 60 percent of CO2 emissions worldwide.

Coal mines can also pollute groundwater from its coal ash storage in landfills that can seep into the water and have raised environmental concerns among advocates seeking to curb CO2 emissions.
We all know that an extra day is added in February once every four years  known as a leap year.

But every few years, a 'leap second' is also added, usually at the end of June or the end of December.

That's because the speed at which Earth rotates around its axis fluctuates slightly  meaning one full rotation is not always precisely one day.

Now, a scientist in the US is calling for a 'negative' leap second  the removal of a second  for the first time.

Professor Duncan Agnew, a geophysicist at UC San Diego, says the negative leap second should happen in 2029 to account for the Earth spinning too fast, but he warns this could lead to 'unprecedented' problems for smartphones and computers.

To make up for irregularities in the Earth's spin, leap seconds are traditionally added - but for the first time, a second could be taken away, possibly in 2029

A leap second was last added on December 31, 2016. Here is a screenshot from the time.gov website with the leap second added. You can see how this would cause confusion for computers. Professor Duncan Agnew at UC San Diego suggests removing a second in 2029 - so the final time reading of the year would be 23:59:58

What is a leap second? A leap second is an adjustment of a single second to the Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This is designed to keep atomic clock time and solar time in line with each other. A 'positive' leap second is the addition of a second (for when the Earth's rotation is too slow). And a 'negative' leap second is the removal of one second (for when the Earth's rotation is too fast). Advertisement

'Extrapolating the trends for the core and other relevant phenomena to predict future Earth orientation shows that UTC as now defined will require a negative discontinuity by 2029,' says Professor Agnew in his new paper.

'This will pose an unprecedented problem for computer network timing and may require changes in UTC to be made earlier than is planned.'

Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) is defined by sophisticated, ultra-precise 'atomic clocks' around the world, which tick precisely and continuously.

However, these atomic clocks do not align exactly with observed 'solar time', which historically defines days as a single rotation of the Earth.

The time it takes for a single planetary rotation changes every so often due to the pull of the moon, causing the two time systems to drift apart.

Since 1972, a leap second has been added 27 times, the last of which was in 2016.

However, the Earth's rotation has reportedly been speeding up since 2020  not slowing down.

A leap second may therefore need to be removed, rather than added, in the future, in order to keep observed solar time in sync with clocks.

Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) is defined by sophisticated, ultra-precise 'atomic clocks' around the world, which tick precisely and continuously. Experts are pictured here with the NIST-F2 atomic clock in the US

READ MORE: Scientists call for an end to daylight saving time The clocks change on the last Sunday of March each year in the UK Advertisement

A 'positive' leap second is the addition of a second when the Earth's rotation has been too slow, while a 'negative' leap second is the removal of a second when the Earth's rotation has been too fast.

'Even a few years ago, the expectation was that leap seconds would always be positive, and happen more and more often,' said Professor Agnew.

'But if you look at changes in the Earth's rotation, which is the reason for leap seconds, and break down what causes these changes, it looks like a negative one is quite likely.'

Anyone who has forgotten to set their clocks forward or backward an hour knows how confusing it is to be out of sync with everyone else's time.

The problem is, the same confusion can occur with leap seconds, especially for today's modern technology systems.

If a computer network doesn't know about them, it will become out of sync with everything else.

For example, if an online store's computer and your bank's computer keep different times, clicking the 'order' button will appear to create two actions at different times, not just one.

'One second doesn't sound like much, but in today's interconnected world, getting the time wrong could lead to huge problems,' said Professor Agnew.

'Many systems now have software that can accept an additional second, but few if any allow for removing a second, so that a negative leap second is expected to create many difficulties.'

Several factors cause the Earth's rotation rate to vary from year to year, and one of them is Earth's liquid core  a mass of molten iron inside the solid part of the planet.

Several factors cause the Earth's rotation rate to vary from year to year, and one of them is Earth's liquid core  a mass of molten iron inside the solid part of the planet (stock image)

Very slow motions of different parts of the core interact to produce the Earth's magnetic field.

These changing motions also cause Earth to spin faster or slower.

In his new study, Professor Agnew claims that the melting of ice at high latitudes due to global warming is an additional factor that slows down Earth's rotation.

When the ice melts, the water spreads out over the whole ocean, which increases Earth's 'resistance' to angular acceleration and in turn slows the planet down.

So while the Earth's rotation has been speeding up overall, global warming slows it down, delaying the need for a negative leap second.

Without the slowing of Earth's rotation caused by melting ice, the negative leap second would be needed three years earlier, in 2026, Professor Agnew reports.

Each day on Earth contains 86,400 seconds, but the rotation isn't uniform, which means over the course of a year, each day has a fraction of a second more or less

This postponement, while giving more time to prepare, is only a trivial benefit compared to massive problems from global warming, he adds.

'Increased melting of ice in Greenland and Antarctica, measured by satellite gravity, has decreased the angular velocity of Earth more rapidly than before,' he says in his study, published in the journal Nature.

'Global warming and global timekeeping have become inextricably linked and may be more so in the future.'

In 2022, scientists voted to scrap the leap second system entirely, but this might not happen until 2035  by which point a negative leap second may already have been needed.
READ MORE: Astronomers revealed first ever image of Sagittarius A* in 2022

The team observed strong magnetic fields around the edge of the black hole

Scientists have released an image of the supermassive black hole at the heart of our Milky Way, proclaiming it a 'milestone in astronomy.'

More than 300 researchers from Africa, Asia, Europe and North and South America created the stunning photo using the Event Horizon Telescope that revealed electric orange swirls around the edge of Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*).

Sgr A* has been previously seen in photos, but the lasted is the first to use polarized light that revealed its magnetic fields - and astronomers said it resembles the Eye of Sauron from the film adaption of JRR Tolkien's Lord Of The Rings

The team used a specific filter to view the black hole's magnetic fields, allowing them to observe strong magnetic fields twisting around surrounding gas and matter.

The twisting structure of Sgr A* is similar that of the first and only other black hole to be photographed, Messier 87 (M87), which has suggested that all black holes posses the strong magnetic fields - a concept that challenges previous studies.

The new image was captured using polarized light for the first time, which employed a filter to view the black hole's magnetic fields that showed how it interacts with surrounding gas and matter

The twisting structure of Sgr A* is similar that of the first and only other black hole to be photographed, Messier 87 (pictured), which has suggested that all black holes posses the strong magnetic fields - a concept that challenges previous studies

Harvard's Sara Issaoun, co-lead of the project, said: 'What we're seeing now is that there are strong, twisted, and organized magnetic fields near the black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy.

'Along with Sgr A* having a strikingly similar polarization structure to that seen in the much larger and more powerful M87* black hole, we've learned that strong and ordered magnetic fields are critical to how black holes interact with the gas and matter around them.'

Almost every large galaxy has a supermassive black hole at its center - and ours happens to be Sgr A*.

The monster possesses four million times the mass of our sun and is located about 26,000 light-years - the distance light travels in a year, 5.9 trillion miles - from Earth.

The first image of Sgr A* showed it like a glowing red and orange colored donut hanging in the blackness of space - but the structure was also too blurry to make out details.

But the lasted work produced a stunning photograph thanks to polarized light.

Sgr A* has been previously captured by astronomers, but the lasted images shows never before seen details that resembles the Eye of Sauron (pictured) from the film adaption of JRR Tolkien's Lord Of The Rings, astronomers said

The first image of Sgr A* showed it like a glowing red and orange colored donut hanging in the blackness of space - but the structure was also too blurry to make out details

'Light is an oscillating, or moving, electromagnetic wave that allows us to see objects,' astronomers shared in the announcement.

Sometimes, light oscillates in a preferred orientation, and we call it 'polarized.' Although polarized light surrounds us, to human eyes it is indistinguishable from 'normal' light.

'In the plasma around these black holes, particles whirling around magnetic field lines impart a polarization pattern perpendicular to the field.'

This allows astronomers to see in increasingly vivid detail what's happening in black hole regions and map their magnetic field lines.

READ MORE: Brightest and hungriest black hole ever detected J0529-4351 was identified by a team at the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, Australia, led by Associate Professor Christian Wolf. Advertisement

Harvard Black Hole Initiative Fellow and project co-lead Angelo Ricarte said: 'By imaging polarized light from hot glowing gas near black holes, we are directly inferring the structure and strength of the magnetic fields that thread the flow of gas and matter that the black hole feeds on and ejects.

'Polarized light teaches us a lot more about the astrophysics, the properties of the gas, and mechanisms that take place as a black hole feeds.'

To observe Sgr A*, the collaboration linked eight telescopes around the world to create a virtual Earth-sized telescope, which what is know as the Event Horizon Telescope.

While the team had a powerful telescope, imagine a black hole in polarized light is not always an easy task.

They noted that Sgr A* was particularly challenged because it changes so fast - 'it does not sit still for pictures,' researchers said.

M87, however, was a much steadier black hole, which is likely why astronomers chose it as the first target ever to be photographed.

EHT Project Scientist Geoffrey Bower said, 'Making a polarized image is like opening the book after you have only seen the cover.

'Because Sgr A* moves around while we try to take its picture, it was difficult to construct even the unpolarized image,' adding that the first image was an average of multiple images due to Sgr A*'s movement.

'We were relieved that polarized imaging was even possible. Some models were far too scrambled and turbulent to construct a polarized image, but nature was not so cruel.'

Scientists said having images of both supermassive black holes in polarized light will open up new methods in comparing and contrasting black holes of different sizes and masses.

And as technology improves, the images are likely to reveal even more secrets of black holes and their similarities or differences.

Mariafelicia De Laurentis, EHT Deputy Project Scientist and professor at the University of Naples Federico II, Italy, said, 'The fact that the magnetic field structure of M87* is so similar to that of Sgr A* is significant because it suggests that the physical processes that govern how a black hole feeds and launches a jet might be universal among supermassive black holes, despite differences in mass, size, and surrounding environment.

'This result allows us to refine our theoretical models and simulations, improving our understanding of how matter is influenced near the event horizon of a black hole.'

The M87 black hole has a mass six billion times that of our sun and inhabits the center of a giant elliptical galaxy.

It ejects a powerful jet of plasma - gas so hot that some or all its atoms are split into the subatomic particles electrons and ions - visible at all wavelengths.

The evidence for a jet flowing from Sgr A* is mounting, the researchers said.

'One thing we're really excited about is the prediction for a powerful jet. As our instrumentation improves in the upcoming years, if it exists, we should be able to tease it out of the data,' Ricarte said.
A massive vortex of ocean water encircling Antarctica, a swirling volume 100-times larger than all the world's rivers combined, is getting faster due to climate change.

At least, that's the finding a new study that examined the past 5.3 million years of this polar ocean vortex's behavior, using sediment cores samples take from Earth's roughest and most remote waters.

The vortex, known as the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) , slows down in cooler eras, like the Ice Age, and speeds up with global warming, they found.

Now scientists fear it's hastening the rise of global sea levels as it stirs Antarctica's thousands of square miles of ice shelves  like a straw stirring ice into a cold drink.

As one co-author of the new research, a geochemist at Columbia University, put it, 'This is the mightiest and fastest current on the planet.'

'It is arguably the most important current of the Earth climate system.'

Sea ice plays an important role maintaining the Earth's energy balance while helping keep polar regions cool due to its ability to reflect more sunlight back to space. Pictured above, some of that very same sea ice, in the water off Cuverville Island in the Antarctic

That geochemist, Dr. Gisela Winckler of Columbia's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, said that the new study 'implies that the retreat or collapse of Antarctic ice is mechanistically linked to enhanced ACC flow.'

It's 'a scenario,' she said, 'we are observing today under global warming.'

Driven by the continuous westerly winds, the ACC rotates clockwise around the southernmost icy continent at a speed of approximately 2.5 miles per hour, swirling along with it about 6 billion cubic-feet of water per second.

Geologists currently believe that the conditions for creating the vortex first emerged after Antarctica separated from Australia 34 millions years ago, during tectonic shifts in the Eocene epoch.

But the vortex, scientists say, only got into its modern grove 12-14 million years ago.

Above is map of simulated ocean velocities at 328 feet below the surface, with the bluish gray areas showing weaker current and the white areas showing the stronger currents of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) vortex. ACC behavior here was derived from the satellite 'altimetry16.' The white stars above denote the research team's sediment core drilling sites

In 2021, French explorer and environmentalist Jean-Louis Etienne announced a Polar Pod that will complete two circuits around Antarctica every three years, carried by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, for similar polar research

What is sea ice? Sea ice is simply frozen ocean water. It forms, grows, and melts in the ocean. It floats on the surface of the sea because it is less dense than liquid water. In contrast, icebergs, glaciers, ice sheets, and ice shelves all originate on land. Sea ice is estimated to cover around 7 per cent of Earth's surface and about 12 per cent of the world's oceans. The lion's share of sea ice is contained within the polar ice packs in the Arctic and Southern oceans. These ice packs undergo season variations and are also affected locally on smaller time scales by wind, current and temperature fluctuations. Advertisement

About 40 scientists from a dozen countries contributed to new study, published Wednesday in Nature, some aboard drill ship the JOIDES Resolution which was deployed to retrieve sediment samples from the ocean floor.

The research vessel conducted a two-month tour in the darkness of South Pole's winter (May to July 2019) near Point Nemo over 1,600 miles from the nearest piece of surface land, the Pitcairn Islands.

Waves over 60-feet high threatened the JOIDES as its crew drilled and dredged up 500- to 650-ft sediment cores for their study of the vortex's many millenia of activity.

Advanced X-ray techniques helped the researchers analyze the changing particle sizes of the ancient deep-ocean sediment.

Smaller particles, the reasoned, settle more during times of slower current, while only larger particles will have the weight to fall to the ocean floor during faster ACC currents.

After years of study, the core samples revealed multiple eras of changing ACC speed that matched known shifts in Earth's climate.

The project was then able to match this new data to prior studies of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, raising stark evidence that the ACC's fast-flow periods corresponded to known moments when Antarctica's glacial ice shrank.

'This loss of ice can be attributed to increased heat transport to the south,' Dr. Frank Lamy, the study's lead author, said.

'A stronger ACC,' Dr. Lamy, who teaches at Germany's Alfred Wegener Institute warned, 'means more warm, deep water reaches the ice-shelf edge of Antarctica.'
In the wake of the Francis Scott Key Bridge's shocking pre-dawn collapse, engineers are revealing the 1.6-mile long structure lacked proper safety features that would have prevented the low-speed container ship crash from turning into a tragedy.

The Maryland bridge is not the first to crumble after being struck by a massive boat - colossal infrastructure in Kentucky, Oklahoma, Georgia and Florida have suffered similar fates.

However, there are many other bridges across the nation that were built with necessary anti-collision devices that have stopped rogue ships from taking them down.

Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Maryland had considered installing protective structures around the Francis Scott Key Bridge, but decided against it due to the high cost of at least $3 million.

Multiple states including Delaware and Arkansas issued statements after the crash, reassuring the public that existing bridges are safe and that ongoing safety update projects are proceeding as planned.

The ship involved in the collapse of the bridge is 948 foot long Dali, a Singaporean-flagged container

A U.S. Coast Guard boat heads toward the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge wreckage on Tuesday March 26, 2024

If appropriate protection structures had been in place, it's possible that the Francis Scott Key Bridge would have survived the crash, experts told DailyMail.com.

These devices, including pier fenders and protection cells, flank the bridge's support pillars to ensure that most boats can't even get close enough to damage the structures.

Fenders can absorb 70 percent of the impact from a wayward barge, according to a study from the Florida Department of Transportation. And as long as the boat isn't heading straight for the structure, 'it is capable of redirecting the barge and saving the bridge pier.'

Here are four cases where US bridges suffered the same fate as the Francis Scott Key Bridge - and four where bridges survived thanks to being protected:

Eggner's Ferry Bridge in Kentucky: 2012

On January 26, 2012, a cargo ship destroyed two spans of the Eggner's Ferry Bridge when it attempted to pass beneath.

But a the ship was too high in the water, and it tore more than 300 feet of the bridge's span down.

The bridge crosses Kentucky Lake, connecting Trigg and Marshall counties.

A portion of the bridge collapsed onto the ship's bow after the strike, and traffic in both directions screeched to a halt. Fortunately there were no injuries or deaths.

The 312-foot-long cargo vessel Delta Mariner was used to ship rocket parts for the Delta and Atlas launch systems.

In this file photo from January 27, 2012, the Delta Mariner is idle at the Eggner Ferry Bridge, with two destroyed spans of the bridge draped over her bow

The Coast Guard towboat Cimmaron pulled up to the idled Delta Mariner four days after it crashed into the bridge, taking down more than 300 feet of the bridge's span

The 8,400-ton cargo ship was on its way to Cape Canaveral, Florida, carrying rocket parts from a manufacturing facility in Alabama, on the fateful day.

Investigators found that Delta Mariner was traveling in a recreational channel on the Tennessee River.

Recreational channels are shallower than the shipping channels the boat was supposed to use.

Reports claimed that the warning lights supposed to be in place on the bridge were not functional, a claim the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet disputed.

Hundreds of students and nurses in the surrounding area who depended on the bridge for their commutes had to add an hour or more of driving time for the five months the bridge was being repaired, creating a burden for them at the fuel pumps.

In March of that year, the Transportation Cabinet awarded a $7 million repair contract to Hall Contracting of Kentucky, Inc.

It reopened on May 25, 2012.

I-40 Webbers Falls Bridge in Oklahoma: 2022

On the morning of May 26, 2002, a barge allided with one of the main support piers holding up the I-40 Bridge near Webbers Falls, Oklahoma.

As the pier gave out, 580 feet of the bridge fell into the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River.

The tumbling bridge span took eight passenger vehicles, a horse trailer, and three tractor-trailers into the water with it, leaving 14 people dead and 11 injured.

Investigations revealed that the captain of the towboat hauling barges upstream suddenly lost consciousness, sending the boat and its barges drifting wildly.

The I-40 bridge over the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River gave out when a wayward barge struck a pier. Fourteen people died in the accident

The bridge had concrete-filled protection cells in place, but they only protected the piers near the central navigation channel under the bridge.

Because the boat went so far off course, it hit one of the smaller, unprotected piers closer to shore.

Some of the cars that crashed had not stopped in time and drove into the water or fell onto the pieces of the collapsed bridge.

Nearby bass fishermen competing in a tournament rushed to the site to help rescue survivors.

Victims' surviving family members sued the company that operated the tugboat, settling for an undisclosed amount in 2003.

I-40 spans 331 miles across Oklahoma. Nationally, it is an economically valuable trucking route, connecting the east and west coasts of the country and carrying more than $380 billion of economic value per year.

It took only two months for Gilbert Central Corp. of Fort Worth, Texas, to rebuild the bridge, earning them a $1.5 million bonus on top of the contracted $10.9 million paid by the state and federal governments.

Sunshine Skyway Bridge collapse in Florida: 1980

A car is seen halted at the edge of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge across Tampa Bay, Fla., after the freighter Summit Venture struck the bridge during a thunderstorm and tore away a large part of the span, May 9, 1980

On the morning of May 9, 1980, the freighter Summit Venture hit the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Florida.

The crash knocked out a support column, crumbling more than 1,200 feet of roadway - much like what happened to the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Some drivers fell into the water on the collapsed roadway, while others did not see that the roadway had fallen away and drove off the edge.

In all, 35 people died.

Investigators ruled the tragedy an 'act of God,' because a sudden squall had pushed the boat into the bridge with 70 mph winds.

Still, pilot John Lerro, never got over the crash, and friends reported that he talked about it until the day he died.

The one survivor, Wesley MacIntire, sued the company that owned the ship and won a $175,000 settlement in 1984.

The silver lining, though, was that this crash led to many new regulations in bridge building requiring protective structures. Unfortunately the Francis Scott Key Bridge, opened in 1977, did not benefit from them.

Construction took seven years, partly because the new bridge included massive concrete fenders to protect the support piers designed to withstand impacts from 87,000-ton ships. The old bridge was dismantled, not repaired.

The project ended up costing about $244 million, partly pushed upward by multiple weather-related construction delays. Today, it carries over 50,000 commuters across Tampa Bay each day.

Sidney Lanier Bridge collapse in Georgia: 1972

On November 7, 1972, the steamship African Neptune slammed into the Sidney Lanier Bridge.

The bridge was a drawbridge, and the operator had lifted the span for the ship to pass through.

But the crew had misjudged the opening, and missed it by several hundred feet.

The Sidney Lanier Bridge in Georgia was badly damaged in 1972 when the African Neptune slammed into it, after a steering error caused it to miss the drawbridge opening.

Ten people died and 11 were injured after their cars and trucks were plunged into the Brunswick River.

At the time, observers reported that the African Neptune's crew dropped the anchor once they saw what was happening, but the anchor could not stop the ship.

It took down three of the bridge's spans, sending 10 cars on Highway 17 into the Brunswick River in Georgia.

The accident killed 10 people and injured 11.

An investigation later revealed that the helmsman caused the crash by turning the rudder to the right - instead of to the left as ordered by then pilot.

The bridge was closed to highway traffic for about six months, and the total repair cost was around $1.3 million.

Highway 17 was used for local commuter traffic and as a passageway to nearby Interstate 95, which carried more economically important trucking freight.

Skyway Bridge crash in Florida: 1987

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge, seen in the current day rebuilt after the 1980 collapse. In 1987, a shrimp boat crash put the new safety measures to the test.

Seven years after the notorious Sunshine Skyway Bridge collapse that changed modern bridge building, a boat hit the bridge - the day before its opening ceremony.

This time, though, the bridge stood up to the boat.

On April 29, 1987, a 73-foot shrimp boat called The Deliverance struck one of the new concrete bumpers protecting the bridge's piers.

These bumpers were some of the protective structures installed during the $240 million rebuild following the 1980 collapse.

By that time, such protective structures had become the norm, since the disaster pushed regulators and engineers to rethink safety in an age of massive ships that can destroy bridges with ease.

The Deliverance's crew was unharmed - as was the rebuilt Sunshine Skyway bridge - but the boat had a 12- to 14-foot gash in it from the crash, according to a news report at the time, and it quickly began to sink.

San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge: Near miss 2007

A 2007 boat crash in San Francisco Bay demonstrated just how important protective structures are for major bridges.

On November 7 of that year, a foggy day, the container ship Cosco Busan ran into one of the fenders protecting the piers of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.

The fender was damaged, but the bridge was not.

The Hanjin container ship, Cosco Busan, that struck the Bay Bridge tower in 2007, seen sailing back into San Francisco Bay.

A large section of the ship was damaged when it came in contact the bridge tower leaving a scar on the hull about 150 feet long.

Workers with NRC Environmental Services sift through oil-soaked sand on Rodeo Beach November 12, 2007 near Muir Beach, California.

However, the ship's hull tore open in the allision, spilling over 53,000 gallons of oil into the San Francisco Bay.

The spill required authorities to close 50 beaches all up and down the California coast, and nearly 7,000 birds died from the oil.

Investigators concluded that the boat's captain was operating it under the influence of prescription drugs that impaired his ability to use navigation equipment.

He was sentenced to 10 months behind bars.

Damage to the fender cost $1.5 million to repair, but the bridge was unharmed. After being repaired, the ship set sail again on December 21, 2007.

'The fenders did their job in that case,' John Goodwin with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission told ABC. 'So there was no damage to the bridge itself. That said, there was heavy damage to the fenders, not to mention to Cosco Busan and to the Bay.'

San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge: Near miss 2013

The Overseas Reymar sails under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California, on January 11, 2013. The 752-foot vessel was cleared to sail by the Coast Guard after it collided with a Bay Bridge tower in fog.

Caltrans officials surveyed the the Bay Bridge that was damaged when the cargo ship Overseas Reymar slammed into the suspension structure a few weeks ago

Once again in 2013, though, an oil tanker struck the Bay Bridge.

On January 7, the 752-foot-long Overseas Reymar hit a tower in the middle of the bridge, damaging a portion of the fender around the bottom of the support structure.

In that case, the tanker was fortunately empty and heading out to sea, so the only oil onboard was for the engines - not cargo.

There were no injuries, and the ship was not substantially damaged.

The pier fender did require $1.4 million in repairs, though, according to a National Transportation Safety Board report.

In this week's tragedy, the Singapore-flagged cargo ship Dali lost power multiple times before the crash, according to reports, and losing power means losing the ability to steer the ship, Bilal Ayyub, former chair of the American Society of Civil Engineers' Infrastructure Resilience Division, told DailyMail.com.

Lives were almost certainly saved when the ship's crew sent out a mayday call after losing power, giving authorities the chance to block most traffic from the bridge.

Even so, six men are missing and presumed dead from the collapse.

The ship involved in the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is 948-foot-long Dali, a Singaporean-flagged container ship.

Each bridge is different, even those that are technically the same type.

Depending on the type of bridge and the width and depth of the body of water it is crossing, it will need different numbers of piers and slightly different protection systems.

But the idea behind them remains the same: Block the piers from being hit.

That being said, civil engineering experts told DailyMail.com that it's entirely possible the bridge could have been destroyed even with protective devices, especially if they weren't built with modern, high-bowed cargo ships in mind.

In response, transportation authorities are taking notes and refitting some major bridges with protective structures, despite it being a costly process.

The Delaware Memorial Bridge is currently undergoing a $95 million project to build protection cells around its piers, a project that began in July and is projected to be completed by September 2025.
It's that time of year again: The invasive spotted lanternfly is laying its eggs on the east coast of the US, and public officials are deputizing all people to destroy them on sight.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) urged Americans to be on the lookout for spongy, brown masses of eggs laid by the insect, which are set to emerge later this year as adults and create $550 million in damages to crops and trees.

Spotted lanternfly egg masses can be spotted on trees, vehicles, and other outdoor surfaces as winter turns to spring - and they are set to hatch in May.

USDA officials advise scraping the eggs off the surface, putting them in a plastic bag, and throwing the bag in the trash - this will ensure none survive.

Spotted lanternflies lay their eggs on trees, cars, and almost any hard surface. USDA advises scrapping the mass off, putting it in a plastic bag, and tossing it in the garbage.

The spotted lanternfly is not a fly, but a species of leaf hopper. It can be identified by its distinctive spotted forewings with black veins at the tips

READ MORE: Americans get inventive in fight against the spotted lanternfly

Fact-box text A woman in Staten Island used a vacuum cleaner to suck at least 80 pests off her grape vine. But a few hours later, the vine was infested again. Advertisement

On hard outdoor surfaces, USDA officials recommend using a pressure washer to remove and destroy the eggs.

Many insects stick to a small number of preferred foods, but not the lanternfly.

Once the eggs hatch, these invasive insects will voraciously feed on over 100 different plants, including commercially important food crops like apples, pears, walnuts, peaches, plums, and grapes.

Their distinctive spotted forewings and bright red underwings make them stand out, but the beautiful bugs are destructive.

Spotted lanternflies, native to Southeast Asia, are now found in 17 states and contribute to an estimated $40 billion in damage caused by invasive species each year.

The spotted lanternfly was first reported in Pennsylvania in 2014, but experts say now that it's now in at least 16 other states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

'Invasive insects and plant diseases, such as the spotted lanternfly, spongy moth, citrus greening, and many others, cost the U.S. an estimated $40 billion each year in damages to crops, trees, and other plants,' said Kathryn Bronsky, national policy manager for the spongy moth at USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

'Together, we can make a difference,' said Bronsky.

Courtesy of the USDA, this spotted lanternfly egg mass was spotted on a pallet in Lancaster, Pennsylvania on August 29, 2018.

This lanternfly was caught in the act of laying its eggs on a tree branch in Berks County, Pennsylvania.

In this graphic from 2023, the states with sightings included Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, Virginia, New Hampshire, Vermont and West Virginia

Because lanternflies can lay eggs on vehicles, they have been able to spread easily across states.

They can even attach to airplanes and trains, USDA officials have said.

Matthew Travis, USDA APHIS national policy manager for the spotted lanternfly, encouraged US residents to 'Look for invasive pest egg masses during late fall, winter, and early spring on outdoor surfaces like tree bark, cars, and items you store outside.

'When you find them, remove them to keep them from hatching in the spring, or worse, hitchhiking on the cars we travel in, or the firewood and outdoor gear we move to new places,' said Travis.

License to kill: Agriculture officials want all US residents to take it upon themselves to kill the spotted lanternfly when they see it.

Despite being visually striking, the spotted lanternfly is destructive, munching on over 100 different ornamental and food plants alike.

USDA now estimates that the lanternfly is in 17 states.

They exploded in number because they don't have any natural predators in the US.

When they feed on plants, they secrete a sticky sweet substance that encourages the growth of mold.

Even if their feasting doesn't kill plants, the mold may.

Experts fear that, in addition to food crops, hardwoods used for lumber could fall prey to the lanternfly.

So do your part, experts urge, and destroy a spotted lanternfly egg mass.
A Michigan nuclear power plant that was decommissioned in 2022 is set to become Americas first revived facility in the nations history.

The Biden Administration announced plans on Wednesday to grant a $1.52 billion loan to Holtect International, which could start by 2025 and provide clean energy to at least 800,000 homes.

The Palisades plant, located along Lake Michigan, was shuttered two years ago over concerns about faulty control rod drive seals that are necessary to control the fission rate of uranium and plutonium.

However, the Department of Energy (DOE) has granted the funds on the condition that Holtect satisfies technical, legal, environmental and financial requirements.

The Biden Administration announced plans on Wednesday to grant a $1.52 billion loan to Holtect International, which could see operations start by 2025 and could provide clean energy to at least 800,000 homes

US Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said Wednesday: Nuclear power is our single largest source of carbon-free electricity, directly supporting 100,000 jobs across the country and hundreds of thousands more indirectly.

President Bidens Investing in America agenda is supporting and expanding this vibrant clean energy workforce here in Michigan with significant funding for the Holtec Palisades nuclear power plant.

The plant is in Van Buren County's Covert, about 40 miles west of Kalamazoo, which is home to around 3,000 people.

The town spans thirty-five square miles, featuring dense forests and blueberry farms.

The plant is in Van Buren County's Covert, about 40 miles west of Kalamazoo, which is home to around 3,000 people. The town spans thirty-five square miles, featuring dense forests and blueberry farms

The median income for a household in the township was $22,829, and the median income for a family was $28,586.

READ MORE: Drone footage of Fukushima reveals first ever look at melted nuclear reactor with 880 tons of radioactive fuel still inside The plant's operators, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, or TEPCO, released 12 photos from inside the site. Advertisement

Florida-based Holtec said the plant would employ more than 600 workers, with about 45 percent of the workforce at the site coming from union labor once restarted.

And an additional 1,000 jobs are expected to be added overtime.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said: Today, Holtec has secured a $1.5 billion conditional commitment for a loan from the U.S. Department of Energy to reopen the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant, protecting 600 good-paying, high-skill jobs and clean, reliable power for 800,000 homes.

Once open, Palisades will be the first successfully restarted nuclear power plant in American history, driving $363 million of regional economic impact and helping Michigan lead the future of clean energy.

I am so grateful to my bipartisan partners in the Michigan Legislature, the Biden-Harris Administration, Holtec, and labor for coming together to get this done.

Together, we are showing the world that Michigan is a place where history is made by hardworking people.

The re-started Palisades plant would avoid more than 4.47 million tons of carbon emissions annually, bringing the total to 111 million tons of CO2 emissions during its projected 25 years of operation.

The Palisades plant, located along Lake Michigan, was shuttered two years ago over concerns about faulty control rod drive seals, which are necessary to control the fission rate of uranium and plutonium

That equates to the annual emissions of removing more than 970,000 gasoline-powered cars from the road.

Those predictions would play a significant role in the administrations goal of decarbonizing the country's power grid by 2035 and the entire economy by 2050.

The company also plans to build its first two small modular reactor (SMR) units at the site, which will not be part of the project that is eligible for the loan.

Holtec Palisades has already procured signed long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for the full power output with rural electric co-ops Wolverine Power Cooperative and Hoosier Energy in Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana.

However, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission declared Palisades one of the four worst-performing plants in the country in 2012.

Construction of the plant began in 1967 and it connected to the grid in 1971.
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If you struggle to find a concealer that doesn't feel cakey or dry out the delicate under-eye area, you need to know about Lumene's serum in concealer.

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Bridges stand as iconic symbols of progress and unity, connecting cities, countries and cultures.

While some enable brief crossings over water, others captivate with their remarkable spans, stretching across vast distances.

MailOnline Travel has today plotted the longest, and most famous, of them all on a fascinating interactive graphic.

To put their mighty spans into context, around 675 Tower Bridge's could fit inside the world's biggest in China...

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1. Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, China

The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China is the longest bridge in the world, spanning an impressive 102.4 miles (164.8km), according to the Guinness Book of Records.

That's longer than the distance between New York and Philadelphia or equivalent to half the journey from London to Paris.

The $8.5billion (6.7billion) crossing is, on average, 100ft (30m) off the ground and took more than 10,000 construction workers to build it before its opening in 2011.

It forms part of the high-speed train route between Beijing and Shanghai and hosts road vehicles in some areas.

China is home to the longest bridge in the world, the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, which covers an impressive 102.4 miles (164.8km)

2. ChanghuaKaohsiung Viaduct, Taiwan

Taiwan is home to the world's second longest bridge, the ChanghuaKaohsiung Viaduct, which reaches 97.8 miles (157.3km) in length.

Completed in 2007, the bridge serves as part of the Taiwan High Speed Rail network and runs from from Zouying in Kao-hsiung to Baguashan in Changhua county.

Both the bridge and train line 'were built to minimise earthquake damage, as the area is prone to seismic activity', says Britannica.

3. KitaYaita Viaduct, Japan

Taking third place on the podium for the world's longest bridges is the KitaYaita Viaduct in Japan.

The viaduct crossing stretches 71 miles (114.4km) and is used to accommodate the high-speed Shinkansen rail line which connects Toyko with Aomori.

It opened in 1982 with 23 stations and is managed by the East Japan Railway Company.

US - Lake Pontchartrain Causeway

Behold the longest bridge in the U.S, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, which covers 24 miles (38km) and carries more than 40,000 vehicles each day

Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is the longest bridge in the US and the longest bridge over water in the world.

The road crossing covers 24 miles (38km) and carries more than 40,000 vehicles each day, supported by 9,500 concrete pilings, says National Geographic.

It opened outside New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1956 and links the urban area of the city with smaller communities on the north shore of the lake.

Europe - Vasco da Gama Bridge

In Europe, Vasco da Gama Bridge earns the title as the longest bridge in operation, spanning 10.7 miles (17.2km) over the Tagus River estuary in Lisbon, Portugal.

The cable-stayed bridge, which opened in 1998, carries six road lanes which accommodate more than 50,000 vehicles each day, according to Viator, with a speed limit of 120kmph (75mph).

It was named 'in honour of the 500th anniversary of the discovery of a sea route between Europe and India by explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498', according to Britannica.

The record for the largest bridge was surpassed by the 'controversial Crimean Bridge which was formally opened by Vladimir Putin in 2018', Britannica says. But the crossing, which spans 12 miles (19km), was damaged by an explosion in 2022 and is temporarily closed.

UK - Bromford Viaduct

The UK's longest bridge is technically the Bromford Viaduct which covers a total 3.5-mile (5.6km) - almost 30 times smaller than the record-breaking Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge.

Perhaps not the most glamorous of crossings, it carries road traffic through part of the M6 between Castle Bromwich and Gravelly Hill, near Birmingham, West Midlands.

Built between 1964 and 1972, it took eight years to complete and features the original Spaghetti Junction.

Tower Bridge

Coming in at just 0.15 miles (0.24km) long, London's Tower Bridge would fit along the world's longest bridge almost 683 times

Tower Bridge would fit along the world's longest bridge around 675 times, measuring just 0.15 miles (0.24km) in length.

The iconic London attraction, which crosses the River Thames, provides an opening 250ft (76m) wide and its twin towers rise 200ft (61m) above the water, according to Britannica.

Despite its short distance, it is used by more than 40,000 vehicles every day, according to local authority Southwark Council.

Golden Gate Bridge

Upon its completion in 1937, the Golden Gate was the longest and tallest suspension bridge in the world, according to Britannica.

The Californian crossing, which links San Francisco with Marin county, is 1.7 miles (2.7km) long and 746ft (227m) high.

'Although other bridges have since surpassed it in size, it remains incomparable in the magnificence of its setting and is said to be the most photographed bridge in the world,' Britannica adds.

'It carries both U.S Route 101 and California State Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) across the strait and features a pedestrian walkway.'

Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge, in New York City, is 1.13 miles (1.83km) in length

Although renowned internationally and frequently featured in movies and television, New York's Brooklyn Bridge spans a mere 1.13 miles (1.83km) in length.

It crosses the East River to connect the New York City boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan. More than 116,000 vehicles, 30,000 pedestrians and 3,000 cyclists use the bridge each day as of 2018, according to the NYC Department of Transportation.

At the time of its opening in 1883, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, according to UNESCO.
Then Democratic vice presidential candidate Sen. Joe Lieberman before addressing the Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles, on Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2000. Bob Luckey / Greenwich Time Former United State Senator Joseph Lieberman speaks during an interview in his midtown Manhattan office, in New York City, July 30th, 2013. Lieberman, a Stamford native, represented Connecticut for 24 years in the Senate, and now works as Senior Council at the law firm of Kasowitz, Benson, Torres & Friedman, in Manhattan. Ned Gerard/Connecticut Post Hadassah Lieberman joins her husband Joe on the campaign trail at Swanky Franks in Norwalk in November 2006. Phil Noel/Connecticut Post Retiring U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman visits Sikorsky Aircraft in Stratford, Conn. Friday, Oct. 19, 2012. Autumn Driscoll Joe Lieberman speaks with a colleague over coffee. Bob Luckey, Jr./Connecticut Post Lieberman and Clark in courthouse entrance...(foreground). Joe Lieberman, candidate for state attorney general and Gloria Rice Clark stand on the steps of the courthouse and spout off about why they should be elected. Nancy Tutko/The Advocate Attorney General Joe Lieberman Bayless/New Haven Register U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman speaks at the Danbury Armed Forces Reserve Center groundbreaking ceremony Sunday, July 8, 2012. Michael Duffy/News-Times Senator Joseph Lieberman, right, shakes hands with Curt Welling, President and CEO of AmeriCares, after Lieberman presented the organization with a "Joe's Hero" award on Wednesday, October 10, 2012, in Stamford. Lindsay Niegelberg/Stamford Advocate Sen. Joe Lieberman laughs with members of the Chabad Lubavitch Center of Greater Stamford and local rabbis prior to a dedication ceremony in Stamford, Conn. on Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016. Michael Cummo/Hearst Connecticut Media Sen. Joe Lieberman greets local activitists at a house party at the home of Kerry Stap in Windham, NH in 2004. Kerry Sherck/Stamford Advocate U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) visits with Stamford ( Conn. ) High Civics students at his alma mater, Stamford High School, to discuss public service and foreign policy on Monday June 13, 2011. Dru Nadler/Stamford Advocate FILE - This Dec. 10, 2012 file photo, Sen. Joseph Lieberman, I-Conn. gestures during a news conference at the state capitol in Hartford, Conn. Retiring Sen. Joe Lieberman in his final Senate floor speech is urging Congress to put partisan rancor aside and reach across party lines to break Washington's gridlock. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill, File) Jessica Hill/AP FILE - No Labels leadership and guests from left, Dan Webb, National Co-Chair Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, and founding Chairman and former Sen. Joe Lieberman, speak about the 2024 election at National Press Club, in Washington, Jan. 18, 2024. The third-party presidential movement No Labels is expected to move this week toward fielding a presidential candidate in the November election. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File) Jose Luis Magana/Associated Press Senator Joe Lieberman enters the Staples Center walking right by the Connecticut delegation as his mother Marcia Lieberman at far right, smiles, in 2000. He was the featured speaker of the night. Bob Luckey / Greenwich Time Independent U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman discusses his campaign win for another term over Democratic challenger Ned Lamont on the WPLR "Chaz and AJ" radio show in Milford the morning after the 2006 mid-term election. Peter Hvizdak/New Haven Register U.S. Senators Joseph Lieberman and Christopher Dodd at L'ambiance press conference in Bridgeport, Conn. on April 24, 1989. Dru Nadler/Stamford Advocate U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman, speaks with reporters after delivering remarks at the Brad Davis Listener Luncheon at Zandri's Stillwood Inn in Wallingford in 2007. Peter Hvizdak/New Haven Register Vice President Al Gore and Senator Joseph Lieberman at the Democratic Convention in 2000. Bob Luckey / Greenwich Time Sen. Joe Lieberman, seated in a booth at the Stamford Diner with general manager Rosemary Licari, talks to the press in 2003. Kerry Sherck/Stamford Advocate Employee Robert Lee gets a handshake from Sen. Joe Lieberman, D-Conn., at Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. in Stratford, Conn., Thursday, July 24, 2003. Lieberman told workers at Sikorsky that he would continue to fight for American jobs and large defense budgets if elected president. Andrea A. Dixon/Connecticut Post Senator Joe Lieberman greets media and diners at the Post Road Diner where he paid a visit to Norwalk in 2003. At left is one of the owners, Kathy Giapoutzis, with her daughter, Oceanna Riccio, 3. At right is waitress Kathleen Cheever. Kerry Sherck/Stamford Advocate Sen. Joe Lieberman visits the Stamford Diner and talks to customers Sharon Derene and Bette Estes in 2004. Dru Nadler/Stamford Advocate Former United State Senator Joseph Lieberman speaks during an interview in his midtown Manhattan office, in New York City, July 30th, 2013. Lieberman, a Stamford native, represented Connecticut for 24 years in the Senate, and now works as Senior Council at the law firm of Kasowitz, Benson, Torres & Friedman, in Manhattan. Ned Gerard/Connecticut Post U.S. Sen. Joseph Liberman, center, tries out a Smiths Detection RadSeeker DL device at the company's Danbury facility Monday, Aug. 22, 2011. Warren Stern, director, Domestic Nuclear Detection Office Department of Homeland Security is to Liberman's right, and Fred Facemire, Smiths Detection director of research and development radiation and nuclear detection technology, is at left. Michael Duffy/News-Times Former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman spoke at Quinnipiac University in March 2024, just weeks before his death. Courtesy of Quinnipiac University In this June 15, 1998 photo, Stamford Mayor Dan Malloy, left, stands with U.S. Sens. Joseph Lieberman, left, and Christopher Dodd, D-Conn., during a news conference about a redevelopment project for Stamford, Conn. Malloy, the Democrat candidate for Connecticut governor on Nov. 2, 2010, said the problems he faced as mayor, when the city was changing from a declining mill town to a financial center, are similar to the ones facing the state now, and he will apply his lessons learned if elected governor. (AP Photo/Stamford Advocate) MANDATORY CREDIT ST U.S. Senators Joe Lieberman and Chris Dodd at L'Ambiance press conference in Bridgeport, Conn. on April 24, 1989. file photo Vice President Al Gore and Senator Joseph Lieberman make a stop in Connecticut at the Italian Center in Stamford Wednesday night 8/9/2000. Photo by Arnold Gold file photo Senator Joe Lieberman gets a warm welcome from the influential state democrats as he kicked off his Presidential Campaign with a rally at Riverfront Plaza in Hartford. Left to Right: State Treasurer Denise Napier, Chris Dodd, Roasa DeLauro and Richard Blumenthal. Hearst CT file photo Senator Joe Lieberman gives the thumbs up to supporters as he leaves on a multi-state campaign tour that kicked off his run for the presidency in 2004. Lieberman began a multi-state campaign tour which will end in Detroit with a speech for the Arab American Institute. Hearst Connecticut file photo Sen. Joseph Lieberman, I-Conn., right, accompanied by Sen. Susan Collins, Maine meets with reporters on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009. Harry Hamburg/ASSOCIATED PRESS Sen. Joseph Lieberman (L) lholds up the portrait of him, drawn by Morgan Liedke (right) Greeting the senator with Liedke are Benjamin Broce (L) Lieberman was visiting Dunbar School to see the computers he had donated. Melanie stengel/Register Hearst Connecticut file photo Sen. Joseph Lieberman, I-Conn., waves to the crowed as he gets ready to speak at the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn., Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2008. Charlie Neibergall/AP Sen. Joe Lieberman, right, and his wife Hadassah Lieberman, pay their respects at the flag-draped casket of Sen. John McCain of Arizona, who lived and worked in Congress over four decades, in the U.S. Capitol rotunda, Friday, Aug. 31, 2018, in Washington. McCain was a six-term senator, a former Republican nominee for president, and a Navy pilot who served in Vietnam, where he endured five-and-a-half years as a prisoner of war. He died Aug. 25 from brain cancer at age 81. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) J. Scott Applewhite/Associated Press Former U.S. President Bill Clinton, second from right, campaigns for Connecticut Democratic gubernatorial candidate Bill Curry, right, and second district congressional candidate Joe Courtney, second from left, who is flanked by U.S. Senators Joe Lieberman, left, and Chris Dodd, center, during a rally with supporters at the Expo Center in Hartford. Hearst CT file photo In this April 8, 2008 file photo Sen. Joseph Lieberman, I-Conn., addresses the Vets For Freedomon Capitol Hill in Washington. A Republican official tells The Associated Press that Lieberman will be speaking at the Republican National Convention. The GOP official said Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2008, that Lieberman would deliver a speech as Republicans gathered in St. Paul to nominate John McCain for president. The official requested anonymity because he wasn't authorized to make an announcement. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File) Jose Luis Magana/ASSOCIATED PRESS In this Aug. 13, 2008 file photo, Republican presidential candidate, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., left, and Sen. Joseph Lieberman, I-Conn., share a laugh while speaking to reporters during a news conference in Birmingham, Mich. A Republican official tells The Associated Press that Lieberman will be speaking at the Republican National Convention. The GOP official said Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2008, that Lieberman would deliver a speech as Republicans gathered in St. Paul to nominate John McCain for president. The official requested anonymity because he wasn't authorized to make an announcement. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File) Mary Altaffer/ASSOCIATED PRESS U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman, speaks with reporters after delivering remarks at the Brad Davis Listener Luncheon at Zandri's Stillwood Inn in Wallingford. Hearst CT file photo Sen. Lieberman talks to supporters in Hartford on Tuesday. His wife Hadassah is seen left. File Photo/John Galayda/File Photo Republican Presidential hopeful, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., left, Sen. Joseph Lieberman, I-Conn., a former Democratic Vice Presidential candidate, arrive off the Straight Talk Express, Monday, Dec. 17, 2007, at the American Legion in Hillsborough, N.H. Lieberman announced his endorsement for McCain.(AP Photo/Jim Cole) File Photo Republican Presidential hopeful, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., left, listens as he gets the endorsement from former Democratic Vice Presidential candidate, Sen. Joe Lieberman, I-Conn., Monday, Dec. 17, 2007, at the American Legion in Hillsborough, N.H. File Photo Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., flanked by Sen. Joe Lieberman, I-Conn., left, and former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge, right, speaks in a hanger at Pittsburgh International Airport in Moon Township, Pa., Monday, Nov. 3, 2008. ( Gene J. Puskar/AP Former President Bill Clinton stumps for Senator Joseph Lieberman, left, at the Palace Theater in Waterbury on Monday. File Photo/Chirstian Abraham/File Photo Former President Bill Clinton, left, and Senator Joseph Lieberman, waves to supporters after walking on stage at the Palace Theater in Waterbury on Monday. Clinto came to Waterbury to stump for Lieberman in his re-election campaign. File Photo/Chirstian Abraham/File Photo Hadassah and Joe Liberman hug after the Senator announces his plans to run for President at Stamford High School. File Photo/Phil Noel/File Photo Democratic presidential candidate Al Gore (R) and his running mate Joseph Lieberman (R) greet the crowd at the end of the Democratic National Convention in the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, 17 August, 2000. AFP PHOTO/Vince BUCCI (Photo by SCOTT NELSON / AFP) (Photo by SCOTT NELSON/AFP via Getty Images) SCOTT NELSON/AFP via Getty Images

Joseph I. Lieberman, the longtime U.S. Senator from Connecticut who came just a few electoral votes short of becoming the nation's first Jewish vice president in 2000, has died at the age of 82.

"Former United States Senator Joseph I. Lieberman died this afternoon, March 27, 2024, in New York City due to complications from a fall," the family said in a statement. "He was 82 years old. His beloved wife, Hadassah, and members of his family were with him as he passed. Senator Lieberman's love of God, his family, and America endured throughout his life of service in the public interest.

A funeral service is scheduled for Friday in Congregation Agudath Sholom on Strawberry Hill Avenue in Stamford.

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A former state Senate majority leader from New Haven, Lieberman went on to serve as the state's attorney general from 1983 to 1989, before his surprising defeat of Republican U.S. Senator Lowell P. Weicker Jr., in the 1988 election. Weicker died last year at 92.

Sen. Joe Lieberman, I-Conn, center, speaks as he is joined by Sen. Ben Nelson, D-Neb., left, Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., right, while telling reporters about the Senate's work to pass the economic stimulus bill in the face of strong GOP opposition, Friday, Feb. 6, 2009, in Washington. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) J. Scott Applewhite/AP

More recently he helped establish the No Labels Party in attempt to give a third-party candidate a toe hold in the 2024 presidential race.

He stepped down from the Senate and was succeeded by U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy in 2013.

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"Connecticut is shocked by Senator Liebermans sudden passing," Murphy posted on X, formerly Twitter. "In an era of political carbon copies, Joe Lieberman was a singularity. One of one. He fought and won for what he believed was right and for the state he adored. My thoughts are with Hadassah and the entire family."

Born in Stamford, Liebermans father Henry owned a liquor store. A star student at Stamford High, Lieberman graduated from Yale University in 1964, where he was editor of the Yale Daily News.

Lieberman became estranged from many Connecticut Democrats over the eight-year-long war in Iraq, which began in 2003. It prompted a young Greenwich politician named Ned Lamont to challenge Lieberman in a rough-and-tumble 2006 Democratic primary battle. Lamont won the primary, but Lieberman formed his own party, Connecticut for Lieberman, and won reelection.

A former six-year majority leader in the state Senate, the Stamford native was selected as Al Gore's presidential running mate in 2000 and would have become the nation's first Jewish vice president. While the Gore-Lieberman ticket won the popular vote that year, it lost in the Electoral College to Republican George W. Bush and Dick Cheney.

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"Joe was a man of deep integrity who dedicated his life to serving his country," Gore wrote on X. "He was a truly gifted leader, whose affable personality and strong will made him a force to be reckoned with. Thats why it came as no surprise to any of us who knew him when hed start singing his favorite song: Frank Sinatras My Way. And doing things Joes way meant always putting his country and the values of equality and fairness first."

Vice President Al Gore and Senator Joseph Lieberman make a stop in Connecticut at the Italian Center in Stamford Wednesday night 8/9/2000. Arnold Gold/Hearst CT Media

Lieberman also sought the Democratic nomination for president in 2004, dropping out after a weak showing in early primaries. After switching to Independent, he was also considered as a running mate for Republican John McCain.

Joe Lieberman was my friend for over 50 years," U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal said in a statement. "On world and national stages, he helped to define and frame an era of history. He was a fierce advocate, a man of deep conscience and conviction, and a courageous leader who sought to bridge gaps and bring people together. He was dedicated to family and faith, and he was a role model of public service. He never ceased listening to both friends and adversaries. He leaves an enduring legacy as a fighter for consumers, environmental values, civil rights, and other great causes of our time and he was tireless in working for Connecticut no matter how far or high he went."

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Lamont, who years later became governor of Connecticut, offered his condolences to Lieberman's family.

"While the senator and I had our political differences, he was a man of integrity and conviction, so our debate about the Iraq War was serious," Lamont said in a statement. "I believe we agreed to disagree from a position of principal. When the race was over, we stayed in touch as friends in the best traditions of American democracy. He will be missed.

Sen. Joe Lieberman celebrates Tuesday's win over Ned Lamont in a close race for the Senate seat File Photo/John Galayda/File Photo

I am deeply saddened to learn of Joe Liebermans passing," added Nancy DiNardo, chairwoman of the state Democratic Party. "He was a groundbreaking politician who rose through the ranks of the Democratic Party to become the states Attorney General, U.S. Senator and our nominee for Vice President. Joe was deeply committed to serving the people of Connecticut and our nation. He respected contrarian views, and was unafraid to share his own.

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Lieberman participated in a discussion at Quinnipiac University just a few weeks before his death, outlining his views on faith and civility in politics with Khalilah Brown-Dean, a writer and professor of political science. Many of the students in the audience, Brown-Dean noted, had not even been born in time to remember Liebermans close-call with the vice presidency.

The message that he gave to the young people in the room was that part of life is failure, and that part of character is how you recover and keep going, Brown-Dean said.

He talked a lot about faith as his personal moral compass, she added. He talked about his faith in helping people understand these values of respect, of a duty to heal and repair the world, and an obligation to build bridges.

Sen. Christopher John "Chris" Dodd, D- Conn., and Sen. Joseph Isadore "Joe" Lieberman, D-Conn., play around at a promontional event for PBS in the Hart Senate Office Building. September 13, 1993 (Photo by Laura Patterson/CQ Roll Call via Getty Images) CQ Archive/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Imag

Former U.S. Sen. Chris Dodd, who worked alongside Lieberman for numerous years, said he and his wife were "deeply saddened" to learn of Lieberman's passing.

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"Joe and I worked together for nearly 50 years, starting with his time in state politics through our many years in the U.S. Senate and his campaigns for Vice President and President," Dodd said in a statement. "He was a dear friend, a great partner and Senator for the people of Connecticut, and a respected legislator by all those who had the opportunity to work alongside him."

George C. Jepsen, himself a former state Senate majority leader from Stamford and a two-term state attorney general, said that over the years, acrimony over Liebermans support for the Iraq War eventually yielded to mutual respect, and Lieberman would occasionally call him in the attorney generals office after his election in 2010.

Senators Christopher Dodd, left (D-Conn.), Joseph Lieberman, center (D-Conn.) and Edward Kennedy, right (D-Mass.), all speak on their cell phones during a news conference in the Riverwalk area of downtown New Orleans on Friday, Sept. 16, 2005. PAUL SANCYA/AP

He called me out of the blue just to see how it was going and how I was doing, said Jepsen, a Hartford lawyer who was co-chairman of Lamont's 2006 primary challenge. Subsequently we had a few conversations.

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Jepsen, in a phone interview Wednesday night, said he worked in the Capitol in 1977, between college and law school, when Lieberman was Senate majority leader. Jepsen said Lieberman had a wry sense of humor and was a skilled politician, becoming majority leader in his early 30s, "which was remarkable and showed his skill as a politician, and I mean that in a positive sense.

"Over Iraq I disagreed with him vehemently," Jepsen said. "He supported the need for regime change there, rather than the theory of weapons of mass destruction. I supported Lamont, but never lost respect for him as an effective political leader. He had a craft of getting things done. He had a very refined sense of humor and it was self-deprecatory. He never failed to make fun of himself. He never went after anybody else. He didnt make fun of people except in a droll and amusing way."

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.
Charlotte Hawkins has opened up about her admiration for fellow Good Morning Britain host Kate Garraway after her husband Derek Draper's passing in January.

Kate's latest documentary Kate Garraway: Derek's Story aired on ITV on Tuesday, as the 56-year-old chronicled the former political lobbyist's final year of life as he continued to battle the detrimental effects of long Covid after being left bed-bound by the virus.

Speaking about Kate's strength and resilience, Charlotte revealed she is 'full of admiration' for her friend and colleague who has has continued to appear on GMB and publicly spoken out about her situation throughout Derek's illness.

In an interview with Prima, Charlotte said: 'I'm full of admiration for how Kate has kept everything going. She wanted to be strong for Derek and the family.

'It's love that keeps you going and gets you through situations like that  love for the person you're caring for, for your family that you need to be strong for and for the people around you who are helping to support you.'

Charlotte Hawkins, 48, has revealed she is 'full of admiration' for Kate Garraway after her husband Derek Draper's death and reflects on the strength of her friend

Kate's latest documentary Kate Garraway: Derek's Story aired on ITV on Tuesday, as the 56-year-old chronicled the former political lobbyist's final year of life

Charlotte also opened up about her own experiences with grief as she revealed how hard it was losing her dad back in 2015.

Her dad, Frank, died aged 78 after a three-year battle with Motor Neurone Disease and she confessed that period of her life was 'extremely hard'.

'Losing my dad in 2015 was extremely hard. [My daughter] Ella Rose was born a month later and I didn't want her to feel my sadness, so I tried to embrace the amazing joy when she was born.

'But you can't hide from grief and it's always going to catch up with you.

'I was on an emotional rollercoaster for some time after that, and it took me a long time to learn to live with my grief.'

Meanwhile Kate emotionally revealed her late husband felt like a 'complete failure' after being left bed-bound by his battle with Covid.

In a moving appearance on Good Morning Britain on Tuesday, the tearful presenter said that she 'won't give up' her cause to shine a light on the underfunded care system, following Derek's death in January.

In the final documentary, the political lobbyist speaks on camera for the first time since being hospitalised with Covid in March 2020, leaving him incontinent, unable to walk and barely able to speak.

In an interview with Prima, Charlotte said: 'I'm full of admiration for how Kate has kept everything going. She wanted to be strong for Derek and the family'

She added: 'It's love that keeps you going and gets you through situations like that  love for the person you're caring for, for your family that you need to be strong for and for the people around you who are helping to support you'

Charlotte also opened up about her own experiences with grief as she revealed how hard it was losing her dad back in 2015 after he died following a three year battle with Motor Neurone Disease

She confessed: 'Losing my dad in 2015 was extremely hard. [My daughter] Ella Rose was born a month later and I didn't want her to feel my sadness, so I tried to embrace the amazing joy when she was born'

In a moving appearance on Good Morning Britain on Tuesday, the tearful presenter said that she 'won't give up' her cause to shine a light on the underfunded care system, following Derek's death in January

She admitted: 'He left like a complete failure, a burden on us, on the carers. This documentary was his way of helping, of speaking up for others and the people who cared for him'

Kate said: 'It started filming for Derek wanting his voice to be heard. The way you show love he couldn't do.

'He felt disempowered to show to love, he couldn't communicate. We were having to relearn this dynamic. The love is still there but you have to grow together and that is why we needed that support.'

'He left like a complete failure, a burden on us, on the carers. This documentary was his way of helping, of speaking up for others and the people who cared for him.'

Fighting back tears, Kate added: 'I'm sad because I can't walk away from something that I have campaigned for. I've had over 8,000 letters from people telling me not to give up.'

Kate went onto reveal she felt 'ashamed' of the huge debts she's accrued to fund Derek's care, adding: 'It's unaffordable for well-paid TV presenters like me, let alone normal people.

'It was costing 26,000 a month for his basic needs. That wasn't the carers getting that, they don't get paid that money.'

'I am ashamed at the fact that I am in debt because I have an incredible job that I love.'

The May 2024 issue of Prima is now on sale.
Like a holiday romance that ends at the airport, Death In Paradise has kissed goodbye to another detective as Ralf Little quits the show.

But, far from being heartbroken, the show's eight million regular viewers are agog to see who they'll be falling in love with next.

The departure of the crime serial's leading man, a catastrophe that threatened to kill off the franchise when it happened for the first time, has now become a running joke.

Bookies are taking bets on who will be next to play a British detective out of his (or perhaps her?) depth on the fictional Caribbean isle of Saint-Marie.

Ralf Little has become the latest Death In Paradise lead to quit the show. Pictured with co-star Shantol Jackson, who plays Naomi Thomas

Current favourites include comedian Romesh Ranganathan (but can he really act?); Jason Watkins (already in a similar show, ITV's McDonald & Dodds); Simon Bird of The Inbetweeners (interesting idea); Jodie Whittaker (but she has already ruined Doctor Who) and Martin Clunes (born to play the role, surely).

But the real question facing all these contenders is  why can't Death In Paradise hold on to its cast? Not only has it lost four Detective Inspectors, enough junior officers have been in and out of the police station doors to fill an airliner.

The only regular who has been on the show since the beginning, in 2011, is the magnificent Don Warrington, who plays Commissioner Selwyn Patterson.

Despite the heinous crime that drives each storyline, the episodes tend to be comfortingly familiar, whoever is playing the lead. Each episode begins with a pre-credits sequence showing the events leading up to a murder and ends with the detective in question unmasking the killer and tying up the loose ends  with lots of lovely Caribbean scenery in between.

It's a formula adored by the show's many fans, but its success was threatened early on when the drama's original star, Ben Miller, who played DI Richard Poole  a detective sent out by the Metropolitan police in London to investigate the murder of a British police officer  quit after three years in 2014.

The show's creator, novelist Robert Thorogood, was so aghast that Miller later revealed the two of thm were no longer on speaking terms. And perhaps in an act of revenge, rather than allowing Poole to exit gracefully, Thorogood killed off his character  murdered with an ice pick in the heart at a university reunion.

Two of the many rumoured stars to take over the reins from Ralf Little are Romesh Ranganathan and Martin Clunes

The Inbetweeners' Simon Bird and Doctor Who star Jodie Whitaker have also been suggested by fans to be next to take over the role

'I can only imagine he resented me for leaving,' the actor said, admitting he felt driven to quit by a combination of problems that made filming unbearable  the heat, the mosquitoes and, above all, the remoteness of the location.

S hot beside the sapphire waters of Guadeloupe, the six-month filming schedule meant London and loved ones were a 14-hour flight away for half the year.

For Miller, who first won TV fame as half of a sketch duo with his Cambridge Footlights pal Alexander Armstrong, the job came at just the wrong time. Recently divorced, he was in a new relationship with film producer Jessica Parker.

'Two weeks after I arrived in the Caribbean,' he said, 'Jessica found out she was pregnant.

'I've just got divorced and I've finally met someone  and now I'm on the other side of the world and we're having a baby. That's a proper curveball.'

But Thorogood wasn't alone in finding his departure hard to understand. Not only was Miller being paid to work in one of the world's most beautiful idylls, he was surrounded by a glamorous supporting cast, including Sara Martins as DS Camille Bordey. 'I constantly get people saying: 'So what bit of spending six months a year on an island in the Caribbean with Sara Martins did you find so unbearable?' he admitted. (French actress Martins played Camille Bordey, a detective sergeant.)

The reality was very different. The whole premise of Death In Paradise is that the detective is utterly unsuited to the climate, and DI Poole wore his suit, collar and tie, even on the beach. Miller tried wearing backless shirts but his skin stuck to the jacket lining. 'You learn to take the heat seriously,' he said, during one break in filming. 'If you're English, you think, 'Oh, I'm just a bit hot,' and you carry on. That's when you run the risk of getting heat stroke.

Ben Miller was the original lead, playing detective inspector Richard Poole

Kris Marshall (left, with co-star Josephine Jobert) joined as detective inspector Humphrey Goodman, in season three, before quitting the role. Series six saw Ardal O'Hanlon take over, as DI Jack Mooney

'I only got it once in the first year,' he added laconically. 'But I had heat exhaustion a number of times, where you get very light-headed, dizzy and sick.'

Ralf Little took this to an extreme when he arrived in 2020 as DI Neville Parker  allergic to mosquito bites, as well as suffering from eczema and hay fever, and prone to sunburn, even on cloudy days.

Miller believed this was the secret of the show's attraction: 'The world goes to bed happy knowing there's an Englishman suffering for being English.' But other dangers left him shaken. After wading into the water to cool off, along a stretch of beach notorious for its strong currents, he was pulled off his feet and almost drowned.

And when he flew his family out to stay on the neighbouring island of Antigua, his baby son was wretched: 'He hated the flight, he hated the heat, we didn't get any sleep because Harrison didn't sleep.'

In desperation, Miller began taking trips back to Britain every fortnight, making the long haul flight just to spend a couple of days with his family.

His successor, Love Actually's Kris Marshall, stayed for four series but he too found the schedule gruelling.

'It's an amazing job but a really long shoot,' he said. 'We spend six months filming in Guadeloupe and I spend about three of them dying to be at home with my friends and family, among English banter and roast dinners.' Wearing a jacket and tie in 40C heat, he said, was, 'like putting on a wet suit, getting into a sauna and doing Hamlet'. By the time he filmed his last series in 2016, his son Thomas was starting school: 'When they're a little older they're settled with their mates and they've got school, it's not fair on them. So you either go out there alone and don't see them as often as you'd like, or you move out there as a family.

'We could have moved ourselves lock, stock and barrel over there, but our home is in the UK.'

He joked that, when his family did join him, his son became 'a bit too Caribbean  he refused to wear shoes and would only drink coconut water and eat pineapple!

'My baby daughter grew massively between visits. Thankfully, she still recognised me, but it was tough being away from her.'

Four months after he left the show, Marshall's mother died.

'I got to spend quite a bit of time with her before she died,' he says. 'Had I been doing the show I'd have been out there.'

Ardal O'Hanlon, beloved as Father Ted's brainless novice priest, Father Dougal, replaced Marshall, knowing how hard it would be. Though his children were older, he felt it was asking too much of his wife Melanie to cope alone for too long.

'Three big grown-up kids living in the house,' he said. 'She was finding it tougher as the years went on. It's a tough old show in terms of being away from home for so long, and in terms of the conditions that you film in  the heat and the humidity.'

Those sweltering conditions, however, are part of the attraction for Death In Paradise's many guest stars, who can get paid to acquire a suntan.

Murder victims and suspects over the 13 years since its launch include famous faces such as Gemma Jones, Colin Salmon, Sally Phillips, Levi Roots, Charlotte Ritchie and Michele Dotrice  to name just half a dozen.

But even these one-off appearances are not without risk. Tony Gardner (one of the stars of Last Tango In Halifax) contracted the Zika virus after he was bitten by an infected mosquito in 2016, and suffered joint pain, swelling and a rash as well as painful sensitivity to light.

O f the 250 or more British cases of Zika recorded in the UK by then, a significant proportion were crew members on the show, he said.

Hardly surprising, then, that Ralf Little has now decided enough is enough, even though by his own admission he doesn't have another job lined up.

In Sunday's unexpected ending, DI Parker literally sailed over the horizon with DS Florence Cassell (Josephine Jobert) after telling her, 'All I want is for us to be together'. Little rarely complained about the hardships of the job. He couldn't say he hadn't been warned, after all. But he confessed he found the snobbery around the show galling, and loathed its reputation as 'a guilty pleasure'.

'What is there to be guilty about?' he huffed. It's a high quality show and it looks beautiful. It is an incredible achievement, something I am very proud of.'

It's one the BBC has no plans to abandon. Death In Paradise is one of its most profitable productions, selling in more than 240 territories worldwide, including major markets such as the U.S. and Australia  and often topping the ratings.

Perhaps its carousel of detectives has turned out to be its biggest attraction. Like James Bond or Doctor Who, the show is constantly revived and reinvented by a new star. Death In Paradise might just prove eternal.
Damian Lewis was joined by Bob Marley actor Kingsley Ben-Adir and other friends at a charity arts exhibition in honour of his late wife Helen McCrory.

Peaky Blinders actress Helen died from breast cancer in April 2021 aged just 52, and had kept her diagnosis a secret as she continued to work.

The Homeland actor, 53, attended the HVH Arts McCrory Award exhibition, which was started to give children equal opportunities in the arts in honour of late patron Helen, in London on Tuesday.

Damian looked dapper for the gallery outing, which had pictures of Helen scrawled across the walls, in a grey tweed suit and casual t-shirt, as he beamed alongside friends.

Actor Kingsley, 37, was among those in attendance at the event, as well as ballet dancer Reece Clarke and actress Sadie Frost.

Damian Lewis was joined by Bob Marley actor Kingsley Ben-Adir and other friends at a charity arts exhibition in honour of his late wife Helen McCrory in London on Tuesday

Actor Kingsley, 37, was among those in attendance at the event, as well as ballet dancer Reece Clarke and actress Sadie Frost

The McCrory Award is a grant that will be awarded annually to supporting gifted disadvantaged young people who 'do not have access to the resources, the training and the finances to support them in their chosen medium,' its website says.

It is designed to provide a route through barriers which keep careers in the arts strictly for the privileged, giving young people opportunities to study and go on to make their own path.

Damian revealed last week that he felt a sense of comfort releasing his debut album Mission Creep last year - which included lyrics about his late wife.

Helen died in April 2021 aged 52 after being diagnosed with cancer, and Damian was sure to pay tribute to the star in his music.

Damian is currently touring with the album and reflected on the writing process during an appearance on Tuesday's This Morning.

Asked about the writing process by host Cat Deeley, he explained: 'If I had written a song it went on a record. I wrote 10 songs and that felt hard enough.

'I Iooked at some of my old songs and they were so terrible!'

Damian continued: 'But I felt comfortable with Mission Creep. There are some personal songs on there, people will know about my late wife Helen.

Helen died in April 2021 aged 52 after being diagnosed with cancer , and Damian was sure to pay tribute to the star in his music (Pictured in 2020)

Damian looked dapper for the outing in a grey tweed suit and casual t-shirt, as he beamed alongside friends (Pictured with Reece)

The McCrory Award is a grant that will be awarded annually to supporting gifted disadvantaged young people who 'do not have access to the resources, the training and the finances to support them in their chosen medium' (Damian pictured with photographer Debbi Clark)

Damian Lewis, Ondine Farlam, Danny English, Debbi Clark, Mark von Herkomer and Emiola Okie attend the 2024 HvH Arts McCrory Award exhibition at the Alon Zakaim Fine Art Gallery

Emiola Okie, Ondine Farlam, Danny English, Sadie Frost, Debbi Clark and Damian Lewis around a cake at the exhibition

'So there's some personal stuff there.'

The Billions star and Helen shared daughter Manon, 16, and son Gulliver, 15, who Damian revealed had been supportive of his decision to pause acting and pursue music.

He explained: 'They're being really sweet about it and they are actually really talented musicians themselves.

'I think it can be a bit annoying that your dad is doing music when that's what you want to do, but they are a more talented than me so I have told them to keep going at it.

'There isn't a chance in hell they will ever [perform] with me.'

While Damian has not confirmed which songs are about Helen, his emotional track She Comes seem to be speaking of his grief.

The lyrics include: 'She comes as a blackbird, she comes as a fox. She sits at the window, she sings from a rock.

'She's the moon in the day and the sun that shines in the dark. She rests in me and she rests in shade. She's my joy, she's my pain and she rained on me.'

Damian began writing the songs during lockdown, when Helen was ill, and told Cambridge Independent: 'They're quite a personal collection of songs.

'Many people will know that I lost my wife about three years ago. This album was written in that time. So inevitably, there's a reflection of that time in the songs. One or two of the songs are, undeniably, just directly about Helen.

Damian Lewis revealed he felt a sense of comfort releasing his debut album Mission Creep last year - which included lyrics about his late wife

While Damian has not confirmed which songs are about Helen, his emotional track She Comes seem to be speaking of his grief (Pictured in 2019)

Damian, 53, is currently touring with the album and reflected on the writing process during an appearance on Tuesday's This Morning (pictured in March 2023)

'The rest of it is storytelling. I like storytelling through songs. Little short stories about events, either imagined or real.

'The very first song I wrote was She Comes. That's sort of the anthem of the album. That was the one that came out and just sort of flowed.'

He has no doubt also been inspired by another musical presence in his life, girlfriend Alison Mosshart who is best known as a lead vocalist for the rock bands The Kills and The Dead Weather.

The pair were first spotted together in the summer of 2022, with Alison's mother Vivian giving the relationship her seal of approval soon after.

She told MailOnline: 'They have mutual friends. I don't know exactly how they met but I'm fine with it. If she's happy, we are happy.'

Romance blossomed a year after Damian's wife of 14 years, tragically passed away after a secret battle with breast cancer.

When Helen died, the actor revealed how his late wife had urged him to find love again, telling him and their son and daughter that she wanted 'Daddy to have lots of girlfriends.'

Damian added in the social media post: 'She died as she lived. Fearlessly. God we love her and know how lucky we are to have had her in our lives. She blazed so brightly. Go now, Little One, into the air.'
Sheridan Smith looked delighted as she celebrated at the curtain call of her brand new musical Opening Night in London on Tuesday.

The actress, 42, stars as functioning alcoholic actress Myrtle Gordon in the new musical - which is based on the 1977 drama film starring Gena Rowlands.

The acclaimed TV star - who endured a public breakdown amid her run in Funny Girl in 2016 - dyed her blonde locks brown especially for the part.

Following a successful premiere, Sheridan was joined by her friends who had turned out to the Gielgud Theatre to see her.

Happy Valley actor James Norton was seen congratulating Sheridan, shortly after she was joined by the her co-stars including Amy Lennox and writer Rufus Wainwright.

Sheridan Smith looked delighted as she celebrated at the curtain call of her brand new musical Opening Night in London on Tuesday

The actress was all smiles as she took a bow during the curtain call in the Opening Night the Musical

Happy Valley actor James Norton was seen congratulating Sheridan, shortly after she was joined by the her co-stars including Amy Lennox and writer Rufus Wainwright.

Sheridan posed gleefully with her fellow cast members (L-R Nicola Hughes, Amy Lennox, Shira Haas, Sheridan Smith, Loudon Wainwright III and Rufus Wainwright)

Plenty of famous faces were at the musical's premiere, including West End star Marisha Wallace, fresh from her stint in Celebrity Big Brother.

Elsewhere, Alan Carr was also in attendance along with his Mamma Mia! I Have A Dream judge Jessie Ware.

Meanwhile, Love Island legend and self-confessed musical theatre fanatic Amy Hart seemed thrilled to be at the show.

The TV star - who last year welcomed a baby boy with fiance Sam Raison - looked grand in green and completed her look with a long grey trench coat.

Similarly, former My Family star Zoe Wanamaker also opted for a green look, but paired her emerald anorak with a pair of white trousers, trainers and mesh handbag.

Wicked actor Jonathan Bailey looked happy to be back at the theatre just months after shooting finished on the new film musical starring Ariana Grande.

Former 'Gavin and Stacey' star Sheridan - who won an Olivier Award for her leading role as Elle Woods in the musical adaptation of Legally Blonde in 2011 - has returned to the West End for the second time in just under 12 months, following on from her star-turn in Shirley Valentine last year.

The actress, 42, stars as functioning alcoholic actress Myrtle Gordon in the new musical - which is based on the 1977 drama film starring Gena Rowlands

The acclaimed TV star - who endured a public breakdown amid her run in Funny Girl in 2016 - dyed her blonde locks brown especially for the part

Sheridan beamed as she bowed alongside her castmates

The star donned a simple purple dress for the performance as she went barefoot

Former 'Gavin and Stacey' star Sheridan has returned to the West End for the second time in just under 12 months, following on from her star-turn in Shirley Valentine last year

Former Waitress star Marisha Wallace opted for a ruched bubble dress that stopped several inches above the knee and was secured with a set of straps

The Celebrity Big Brother star looked sensational as she paired the quirky dress with some red heels

The former Chatty Man star looked positively giddy as he fastened his brown pleated overcoat with a belt and Table Manners host Jessie served up a look made up of striking red lipstick and a floor-length jacket

Love Island legend and self-confessed musical theatre fanatic Amy Hart looked thrilled to be at the show as she dazzled in green

My Family star Zoe Wanamaker arrived wearing a green coat and accessorised with a black-and white scarf, trainers and a mesh handbag

James cut a stylish ensemble in some beige trousers, grey checked scarf and khaki jacket

Wicked actor Jonathan Bailey looked happy to be out as he kept things casual in a long woollen coat

Sheridan and the cast pointed to the audience at the end of the performance

The star looked in great spirits as she returned to the stage

Sheridan cheekily stuck her head through the curtain

The star couldn't wipe the smile off her face

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline inside her dressing room at London's Gielgud Theatre ahead of her debut performance she said: 'I'm loving every minute of it, it's such an honour. I can't wait for people to see it now'

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline inside her dressing room at London's Gielgud Theatre ahead of her debut performance in Opening Night, the Brit star, 42, appreciates the obvious parallels between herself and Myrtle Gordon, the drunken Broadway legend she's bringing to life in her new stage show.

However, where some actors may swerve such triggering parts, Sheridan describes being offered the role as 'a gift' because she can use it to finally extinguish past traumas which threatened to derail her career.

She said: 'It feels like a moment of taking back control. I feel like the part is a gift, it's a gift of a part for any actress to play.

'I'm loving every minute of it, it's such an honour. I can't wait for people to see it now.'
Rapper Cardi B threatened to sue the Los Angeles Police Department over an alleged incident that she claims ended with her being strip searched over the weekend.

Cardi, 31, made the allegations during an Instagram Live stream on Monday, although some fans speculated that she was joking around for dramatic effect.

On Tuesday, the LAPD has told both TMZ and The Daily Beast that there's no record of the incident ever taking place.

And now Cardi has come forward to say that there was 'no truth' to her wild story and that she was 'taken out of context.'

'This IG live was taken out of context and there is no truth to this story. Apologies for any confusion,' the rapper said in a statement to Billboard.

Rapper Cardi B, 31, threatened to sue the Los Angeles Police Department over an alleged incident that she claims ended with her being strip searched; seen in 2023

However, the LAPD has no record of the alleged incident ever taking place

In Monday's Instagram Live, the rapper began by telling fans that she was 'stopped by the cops' in Los Angeles on Sunday.

'They thought I was trafficking fentanyl, and they thought I had a gun in my car, so they stopped me and everything. All the helicopters in L.A., they was outside. Yo, I was freaking out,' she continued.

'They had me outside for like, three hours. They had me getting butt naked outside, s**t was crazy. It was deadass a movie and whatever, but you already know.'

The Enough hitmaker then said she was 'about to sue the LAPD' over the alleged debacle.

Despite her allegations, a detective at the LAPD told the Daily Beast that they had 'no record of contact with Cardi'.

Law enforcement sources also told TMZ that there were no reports of the incident Cardi described and that 'if something as dramatic as what she described happened, it'd be documented'.

It's possible that Cardi was joking about the incident, as she was speaking in a different voice when she recounted it on Instagram - and even burst out laughing at the end of the tale.

'Alright, so no, seriously, I just wanna say thank you to my mother f***ing fans,' she added at the end.

It comes just days after Cardi stripped down for the X-rated music video to her new hit Enough (Miami). Cardi can be seen strutting her stuff in a racy one-piece, which partially covered her with furry coat, and knee-high platform platform.

While the burgundy number covered up nearly head to toe in a posh furry coat, being the provocative entertainer that she's been since her debut, the starlet teased viewers by opening the coat to reveal her figure in the racy ensemble.

In keeping with the color theme, the New York City native also donned knee-high platform boots and a short pixie-like tresses with bangs that appears to be a wig.

Cardi made the allegations during an Instagram Live stream on Monday, although some fans are speculating that she may have been joking around for dramatic effect

'They thought I was trafficking fentanyl, and they thought I had a gun in my car, so they stopped me and everything. All the helicopters in L.A., they was outside. Yo, I was freaking out,' she said; seen in an Instagram snap

'They had me outside for like, three hours. They had me getting butt naked outside, s**t was crazy. It was deadass a movie and whatever, but you already know'

It's possible that Cardi was joking about the incident, as she was speaking in a different voice when she recounted it on Instagram - and even burst out laughing at the end of the tale; seen in a still from her music video Enough

It comes just days after Cardi stripped down for the X-rated music video to her new hit Enough (Miami)

'Yea... yea,' she says seductively, before adding, Okay,' which coincides with her opening one side of the coat to reveal the racy undergarment, which helped showcase her many tattoos on her hip and arm.

Another look consisted of bikini-like bottoms with a white a cropped white short with red trim that highlighted her toned midriff, where she donned a long black tresses with a healthy dose of volume.

She shifted to a white and red wig with bangs when she changed into brown bikini bottoms and a long matching head scarf that fell down past her knees.

The raunchy song recently debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Dune: Part Two is easily the biggest movie of the year thus far, and while it's a hit with an overwhelming majority of fans and critics, some are speaking out.

The film is the second half of director Denis Villeneuve's two-part adaptation of Frank Herbert's 1965 sci-fi magnum opus, which gives fans a closer look at the Fremen - the desert-dwellers on Arakis - and their way of life.

The original book - considered one of the best sci-fi novels of all-time - delved deeply into themes prevalent in Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) socieites while also commenting on Western imperialism.

Now that the film is out - having earned over $575 million worldwide - many critics are speaking out about the production failing to cast MENA actors while also diminishing the MENA influences from the book.

The first half of the book and the first movie introduces fans to this massive world and the main characters like Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet - who signed a multi-year first-look deal with Warner Bros.), whose family has been chosen to preside over Arakis and the lucrative spice production on the planet.

Dune: Part Two is easily the biggest movie of the year thus far, and while it's a hit with an overwhelming majority of fans and critics, some are speaking out.

The original book - considered one of the best sci-fi novels of all-time - delved deeply into themes prevalent in Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) socieites while also commenting on Western imperialism.

The first half of the book and the first movie introduces fans to this massive world and the main characters like Paul Atreides ( Timothee Chalamet ), whose family has been chosen to preside over Arakis and the lucrative spice production on the planet

The second half of the book and the second movie follows Paul and his mother Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson) as they integrate themselves into the Fremen culture.

Herbert - who passed away in February 1986 at 65 - had said he was influenced by Middle Eastern, North African and Islamic culture.

Such touchstones he drew upon for the Fremen people in his book included the Algerian War for Independence, T.E. Lawrence and the iconic 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia and the Bedouins of the Arabian plateau.

Still, many critics took issue with the fact that only one MENA actor who was cast as a Fremen - the Swedish-born and Tunisian-raised Souheila Yacoub, who plays Shishakli, a friend to Zendaya's main character Chani.

Earlier this month, Furvah Shah wrote a piece for Cosmopolitan UK mentions that the filmmakers specifically left out a word used frequently in the book - jihad - which literally translates in Arabic to 'struggle' but is now synonymous with acts of terror.

'For me, to leave it out of the script is an intentional choice which shows that creators recognise their influences, yet choose not to highlight them on screen if it didn't serve an aesthetic purpose. Like, Dune can be Muslim, but not too Muslim,' Shah wrote.

She also linked to a 2021 article that mentions Herbert's own book editors asked him to diminish the, 'Muslim flavour' of the book.

Shah added, 'From the use of beads and prostration in prayers by the Fremen, to the almost-Arabic language, phrases pulled from religious texts and the wearing of veils, it felt like Dune takes a heavy amount of inspiration from Islam, Middle Eastern and North African cultures yet simultaneously erases us from screen.'

The second half of the book and the second movie follows Paul and his mother Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson ) as they integrate themselves into the Fremen culture

Such touchstones he drew upon for the Fremen people in his book included the Algerian War for Independence, T.E. Lawrence and the iconic 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia and the Bedouins of the Arabian plateau

Earlier this month, Furvah Shah wrote a piece for Cosmopolitan UK mentions that the filmmakers specifically left out a word used frequently in the book - jihad - which literally translates in Arabic to 'struggle' but is now synonymous with acts of terror

Earlier this month, Furvah Shah wrote a piece for Cosmopolitan UK mentions that the filmmakers specifically left out a word used frequently in the book - jihad - which literally translates in Arabic to 'struggle' but is now synonymous with acts of terror.

Serena Rasoul, a casting director and founder of Muslim American Casting, said she was disappointed they didn't cast more MENA actors.

'This was a missed opportunity to honor the regions rich culture and heritage,' Rasoul said.

Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) Hollywood Bureau director Sue Obeidi said the casting was, puzzling.'

'This feels wrong considering the storys cultural background, and because of this, the film misses out on accurately showing the diverse world of Dune. It weakens the films integrity and cultural impact,' she said.

Amani Al-Khatahtbeh, founder of MuslimGirl.com, added that there is often a double-standard when it comes to casting Muslim actors.

'One of the big things we hear when it comes to Middle Eastern people getting cast or brown people getting cast is there is not enough talent,' she began.

'Yet there is no hesitation and no challenge for the industry to cast those actors from those backgrounds in the stereotypical roles of being terrorists or the villains. Conveniently, we are at a surplus of Middle Eastern actors when it comes to negative portrayal,' she added.

Thomas Simsarian Dolan, an academic advisor for the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition, commended Villeneuve for casting Yacoub, though she falls into a, 'native fixer' type of character.

'The native fixer is in on the action, but definitely in a decidedly second-class position, subservient to the colonial power or hero. We know if we have a minority character (person of color, queer, etc.), they will help the hero and then die,' Dolan explains.

'This was a missed opportunity to honor the regions rich culture and heritage,' Rasoul said

'Yet there is no hesitation and no challenge for the industry to cast those actors from those backgrounds in the stereotypical roles of being terrorists or the villains. Conveniently, we are at a surplus of Middle Eastern actors when it comes to negative portrayal,' she added

As for Villeneuve, he didn't discuss the casting of the Fremen much leading up to Dune: Part 2, though he did discuss it in an interview with The Nerds of Color

Writer Khaldoun Khelil praised Villeneuve for his understanding and respecting the sci-fi genre, stating the director, 'clearly understands that sci-fi is a wonderful mirror or prism to understand our current time and place.'

'But he has his own agendas. In the case of Dune, Villeneuve is expressing his personal discontent with fanaticism and those who exploit it and this superseded Dunes other themes in his interpretation If the Fremen are boiled down to exploited fanatics, it strips them of not only agency but it ignores what theyre really fighting for. Theyre fighting for their home. Arrakis. Dune,' Khelil said.

Rasoul added the film, 'did very little to engage MENA actors, artists, consultants, musicians, and linguists. Instead, it continued to mythologize and exotify a Middle Eastern-inspired world. Our stories are good enough, but our people are not.'

As for Villeneuve, he didn't discuss the casting of the Fremen much leading up to Dune: Part 2, though he did discuss it in an interview with The Nerds of Color.

'I tried to be as faithful as possible to the images I had in my mind when I read the book when I was young,' the director began.

'And this idea that the world of the Fremen would be kind of inspired by culture from North Africa and the Middle East  culture that I deeply love by the way, because its a very complex world  there was this idea that there was something powerful that will come out from Africa in Frank Herberts mind,' he added.

'And I tried to respect his ideas. Which is why I did the casting the way I did. And I feel truly that Im right in doing it this way. It feels authentic, it feels honest, and true to the book,' he said.
Brendan Fevola stunned fans this week when he revealed he scored more than $250,000 to appear on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2016.

But it appears that some cast members on the current season of the show aren't getting paid as much.

An insider on the Channel 10 survival series has claimed one male cast member this season is taking home $90,000 for two weeks.

If they can put up with the notoriously grisly jungle conditions they get another $5,000 every day after that for the chance to win $100,000 for their favourite charity.

Skye Wheatley, who is appearing on the current season of the show, says her pay on the series can't match her regular earnings as an influencer.

Brendan Fevola stunned fans this week when he revealed he scored more than $250,000 to appear on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2016

'To be honest, I would make more money being at home,' the former Big Brother star, 30, said in an interview with Pedestrian TV.

The high-profile social media star added: 'Id do it for free. Its for charity, babes, who gives a f**k about the money.'

Skye's co-star Callum Hole, 24, told the publication he was being paid 'good money' and earning more than what he was paid on Love Island.

Khanh Ong, 30, added that after four attempts producers were finally able to persuade to appear on the series - at a fee much higher than his original offer.

But it appears that some cast members on the current season of the show aren't getting paid as much. Skye Wheatley, who is appearing on the current season of the show, says her pay on the series can't match her regular earnings as an influencer

It comes after the Daily Mail Australia revealed the celebrities on the popular series last season were getting paid between $35,000 and $180,000.

Australian television legend Kerri-Anne Kennerley led the pack in 2023. According to industry sources she took away a generous salary of $180,000.

Former Project host Peter Helliar, meanwhile, pocketed a cool $90,000 for his time in the jungle while former Australian Idol judge, Ian 'Dicko' Dickson, judge, fetched $80,000.

Skye's co-star Callum Hole, 24, revealed he was being paid 'good money' and earning more than what he was paid on Love Island. (Pictured)

This week Fevola gave some telling clues about the sums the cast of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! may have been paid to appear on the show.

The former AFL player, 43, revealed on Fox's Fifi, Fev and Nick breakfast show he was paid an enormous upfront sum to star on the reality show in 2016.

'I got paid $250,000 up front. And then $5,000 every show after the first two weeks. You'd lay there on a Sunday, and hope there's not another eviction,' he explained.

'So, if you get to stay another seven days and there's another $35,000.'

Fevola was crowned winner of the show's second series in 2016, beating out fellow contestants including Shane Warne, Anthony Callea and Havana Brown.
Malcolm in the Middle star Frankie Muniz has revealed his cat's surprising connection to Lady Gaga.

On Tuesday's I'm A Celebrity, the former child actor, 38, claimed he had a famous feline after asking a true or false question about himself.

'True or false... I love hairless cats and rats?' he asked podcaster Brittany Hockley, who was strapped to a contraption which would slap her lightly in the face with a stinky fish tail if she answered incorrectly.

Brittany got the question right, before Frankie claimed one of his pets had a very big claim to fame.

'Lady Gaga actually used my cat in the Bad Romance video,' the Agent Cody Banks star told the other celebrities.

Malcolm in the Middle star Frankie Muniz has revealed his cat's surprising connection to Lady Gaga

On Tuesday's I'm A Celebrity , the former child actor, 38, claimed he had a famous feline after asking a true or false question about himself. 'Lady Gaga actually used my cat in the Bad Romance video,' the Agent Cody Banks star told the other celebrities

'My cat is probably more famous than I am. Was in a Lady Gaga video, it's a pretty big deal,' he told the camera afterwards.

The hairless Sphynx cat, whose name Muniz did not reveal, was featured in Gaga's 2009 video for her single Bad Romance very briefly and bared its fangs.

'My cat is probably more famous than I am. Was in a Lady Gaga video, it's a pretty big deal,' he told the camera afterwards

The hairless Sphynx cat, whose name Muniz did not reveal, was featured in Gaga's 2009 video for her single Bad Romance very briefly and it bared its fangs. Pictured: Lady Gaga in the Bad Romance video

But this wasn't the only one of Muniz's cats to gain notoriety - in 2018, his other feline companion Jeri caused a commotion.

After leaving home for a family funeral, Frankie came back to his home to find his home completely flooded.

Revealing his devastation, he took to Twitter to reveal his cat Jeri accidentally turned a faucet on and flooded his home.

But this wasn't the only one of Muniz's cats to gain notoriety - in 2018, his other feline companion Jeri caused a commotion. After leaving home for a family funeral, Frankie came back to his home to find his home completely flooded

'I arrived home from my uncles funeral to find 4 of my 5 story brownstone home under 3 feet of water. Everything I own, destroyed. Every wall, piece of artwork, personal photos, furniture,' he tweeted at the time.

'All because my cat accidentally turned on a sink a few days ago while we were gone.'

The TV star followed up with another emotional tweet, explaining, 'Im devastated and exhausted from a tough week with the loss of my Uncle Skip, 45 hours of travel to and from France to walk in to find this disaster.

'I've cried more yesterday and today then my whole life combined. Forgive me for venting,' he added.
Married At First Sight's Tim Calwell has been spotted looking stressed in a park while making last minute edits to his Final Vows speech.

The 31-year-old was seen revising his speech on a laptop with a furrowed brow and focused demeanor while sitting on a park bench in Sydney's inner city suburb of Leichhardt.

An insider close to Calwell shared that the reality star was 'torn between breaking up with Sara or having a happy ending.'

The source detailed, 'Tim was unsure of what to do, he had been through such a roller coaster through the experiment.'

The groom hoped to give Sara 'one more chance to actually treat him well.'

Married At First Sight's Tim Calwell was spotted looking stressed in a park making final edits on his Final Vows speech

The 31-year-old's furrowed brow and focused demeanor spoke volumes as he was seen revising his Final Vows speech at a park bench in Sydney's inner city suburb of Leichhardt

'Sara treated him like rubbish, but the decision week was super short and they were in a such a good place for a few weeks now so it was like may as well keep the good times rolling if we can,' said the source.

'One minute he was happy to call it quits because he was still having doubts about whether he could still trust her after she betrayed him... and then the other part of him was he did care about her,' they continued.

Differing accounts among the cast hinted at Tim's indecision, with some believing he was prepared to end the relationship, while others heard he felt they were in the best phase of their televised romance.

An insider close to Calwell shared that the reality star was 'torn between breaking up with Sara or having a happy ending'

'Sara treated him like rubbish, but the decision week was super short and they were in a such a good place for a few weeks now so it was like may as well keep the good times rolling if we can and give her one more chance to actually treat him well,' said the source

Adding to the drama, a second source revealed that show producers had significant input into Tim's final speech, pushing for a more dramatic confrontation.

'[The speech from producers] was really brutal and wanted Tim to go hard on Sara. There were paragraphs about her ex, just going hard for her, none of which came from Tim.'

Tim, caught in the crossfire of his emotions and the producers' demands, remained undecided about the final content of his vows.

Once he was done writing his speech, Tim was seen packing away his laptop into his suitcase

He looked pensive as he made his way into an awaiting Uber before heading to his accomodation

'Tim was tossed up whether to include all the edits and changes made by producers, unable to make up his mind,' the source added.

Sara was recently embroiled in an alleged 'cheating' scandal when her co-star and former best friend Eden Harper revealed that she had met up with her ex-boyfriend behind her groom's back.

The controversy blew up after Eden revealed text messages between herself and Sara, in which she disclosed her the meet-up with her ex-boyfriend.

Married At First Sight continues on Sunday at 7pm on Channel Nine.
From The Bear to 'The Boss,' Jeremy Allen White's next potential leading role is already generating plenty of excitement.

The Golden Globe winner, 33, is said to be the 'top choice' to play Bruce Springsteen in the upcoming film Deliver Me from Nowhere, according to Deadline.

Although negotiations have not yet begun with the actor, talks are underway with A24 to produce the film.

White is expected to head to New Jersey to shoot in the fall after wrapping on season 4 of The Bear.

Season 3 is currently filming in Chicago, with season 4 shooting back-to-back after a quiet early renewal from FX this month.

Jeremy Allen White is reportedly the 'top choice' to play Bruce Springsteen in the upcoming film Deliver Me from Nowhere, about the making of the rocker's seminal 1982 album Nebraska

Based on Warren Zanes' 2023 book, Deliver Me from Nowhere recounts the making of Springsteen's seminal 1982 album Nebraska.

Springsteen's sixth studio album is considered by many to be his rawest and most personal, dealing with his depression and rise to global stardom.

Nebraska came about by chance in the bedroom of a rented New Jersey house while Springsteen and the E Street Band were making Born in the USA.

From writer/director Scott Cooper, the movie marks the first major project for producer Scott Stuber since exiting as Netflix Films chairman.

Springsteen and manager Jon Landau are 'actively involved' in the film, according to Deadline.

White's casting buzz comes after he won his second Golden Globe this year for his performance on The Bear.

After making his A24 debut last year alongside Zac Efron and Lily James in The Iron Claw, White is set for another nonfiction drama.

He's playing a supporting role in You Can't Win, based on the 1926 memoir by Jack Black (Michael Pitt), set in a crime-laden hobo underworld.

White's casting buzz comes after he won his second Golden Globe this year for his performance on The Bear

Meanwhile, Springsteen is still going strong with the E Street Band, currently touring around North America

Nebraska was Springsteen's sixth studio album and his first solo album and was ranked number 150 in Rolling Stone's 2020 edition of its The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list

Meanwhile, Springsteen is still going strong with the E Street Band, currently touring around North America.

The Boss also released his 21st studio album Only the Strong Survive in 2022, for which he's currently working on a Volume 2.
Sen. Cruz speaks to James Beauchamp, president of Midland-Odessa Transportation Alliance Midland Reporter-Telegram Sen. Cruz at the Bush Convention Center Midland Reporter-Telegram Sen. Cruz speaks with Midlanders Midland Reporter-Telegram

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and other West Texas leaders discussed the impact that I-27 will have on Midland and West Texas at a press conference at the Bush Convention Center on Tuesday, March 26.

Sen. Cruz introduced legislation naming the Ports-to-Plains Corridor between Laredo and Raton, New Mexico as the future Interstate 27, which was recently signed into law.

The route will pass through Midland as a connection from Sterling City to Lamesa called I-27 West. Cruz shared that I-27 will run from Laredo north through West Texas, up to Canada. Cruz said passing the numbering act is important because the Texas Department of Transportation can now place signs along the route of the future Interstate 27, which is an important step in receiving support and funding to build the interstate system.

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I think infrastructure dollars need to flow where need is and need is out here, Cruz said. Need in terms of population, in terms of commerce, in terms of agriculture, in terms of livestock, in terms of oil and gas. Cruz said he wanted to continue to invest in this region.

He shared a TxDot study that says improvements to the Interstate 27 system would create $3.4 billion in annual travel cost savings and a $2.2 billion annual increase to the states gross domestic product.

Midland Mayor Lori Blong said I-27 is the result of decades of collaboration to expand the interstate system. She said that I-27 will allow for more opportunities for economic growth in the area and will make it easier to travel safely around the region. Expanding the road from four lanes to an interstate road will create exponential economic growth opportunities because of the regions ability to transport people and products.

Ector County Judge Dustin Fawcett said the I-27 expansion was vital to the future of the region. Fawcett said West Texas commodities have state, national, and international value.

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Cruz said Mexico is Americas largest trading partner and the trade relationship is growing. He said this cross-border trade creates jobs and economic opportunities for Texans.

That is why this infrastructure matters so much, is because it is critical to jobs in West Texas, in South Texas and all throughout the state, he said.

Cruz said building the interstate will take years, but the project is making progress.

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Kate Garraway's friend has told of the horrifying moment she received a call to tell her the television presenter had been hospitalised amid Derek Draper's health battle.

Documentary Kate Garraway: Derek's Story chronicles her husband Derek's final year of life as he continued to battle the detrimental effects of long Covid after being left bed-bound by the virus.

And in the ITV documentary, the broadcasters's friend has recalled how she was taken to hospital after suffering heart pains amid the stress.

She said: 'Kate was on the way here and she had pains in her chest and threw up on herself in her car.

'I had a phone call and they go, "Oh, Kate's in hospital," so naturally your mind goes, "Oh, Kate's in hospital with Derek."

Kate Garraway's friend has told of the horrifying moment she received a call to tell her the television presenter had been hospitalised amid Derek Draper's health battle

Kate Garraway : Derek's Story chronicles her husband Derek's final year of life as he continued to battle the detrimental effects of long Covid after being left bed-bound by the virus

'No, no, no Kate's in hospital. Oh so what's gone wrong here. That was a really horrible moment.

'Forget where she wants to be and what she wants to keep on going and doing because work pays bills at the end of the day, especially for the costs that she has to cover.

'All of that just didn't matter in that moment. It was like, "Kate, you're not ok".'

Political lobbyist Derek died in January aged 56 following a long battle with Covid-19.

He was left needing round the clock care due to his severe physical and health needs, affecting Good Morning Britain anchor Kate and their teenage children Darcey, 18, and 14-year-old William, known as Billy.

Derek's care cost 16,000 a month and Kate says she is now in survival mode as she faces between 500,00 and 800,000 debt.

Speaking to The Times, Kate said: 'Derek's needs were clearly so great, yet he didnt warrant funded care  so you think, If he isnt getting it, then who is?

'To be fair to them, no ones contacted me since hes passed away to ask for that. They may well still do, but they havent as yet.

And in the ITV documentary, the broadcasters's friend has recalled how she was taken to hospital after suffering heart pains amid the stress

Kate Garraway, 56, could have to pay a staggering fee of up to 800,000 for all the care used for her late husband Derek Draper

As the Good Morning Britain presenter, 56, spoke about the looming debt, she admitted she's currently in 'survival mode', following Derek's death

'The bigger picture of the further appeals I havent addressed yet, because Im still in survival mode. Its supposed to be a system thats meant to catch you if you fall. But actually, it feels like its trying to catch you out.'

Derek's final moments were shown in the documentary on ITV on Tuesday, that will also capture him talking on camera about his battle for the first time.

He really 'wanted to have his say' despite his illness leaving him with very limited speech, according to The Sun.

The touching ITV documentary captures emotional moments alongside his children and his beloved wife Kate as he bravely fought the disease after four years.

A poignant moment from the documentary's trailer, shows the former political advisor lying in bed as he wrote down in his notepad.

During a heart-wrenching moment from the clip, Derek says: 'My name's Derek Draper, I want you to hear my story.'

The GMB host can be seen sitting on his bed as she asked: 'You've written Covid changed everything. Do you mean for you?,' as Derek replied: 'Yes.'

A source told the publication: 'Derek really wanted to make this documentary and have his say. It was incredibly brave of him to let cameras into his home.'

The political lobbyist died in January aged 56 following a long tragic battle with Covid-19

Derek will reportedly be shown speaking on camera about his battle with Covid, in an emotional documentary depicting his final days

The touching ITV documentary will capture emotional moments alongside his children and his beloved wife Kat (pictured) as he bravely fought the disease after four years.

Speaking with co-host Ed Balls on Good Morning Britain, Kate admitted she 'can't quite believe' that Derek, who died in January, isn't with her to 'watch his story'.

'It's been pretty emotional actually. Makes you want to jump in the screen and give him a hug.

Kate previously discussed how it feels to have completed the documentary, as she confessed it had been 'pretty emotional' working on it.

Speaking with co-host Ed Balls on Good Morning Britain, Kate admitted she 'can't quite believe' that Derek isn't with her to 'watch his story'.

'It's been pretty emotional actually. Makes you want to jump in the screen and give him a hug.

'You can't quite believe that he's not with us to watch his story. But, hopefully, it will be very useful for others who that are going through the same thing. That's the dream and the wish.'

After viewers watched a trailer for the programme earlier this week, Ed added: 'It was very moving to hear him speak in [that] clip we played a couple of days ago. Because at the same time, there's a fragility but also it is absolutely the Derek I've known for 30 years.'

The psychotherapist really 'wanted to have his say' despite his illness leaving him with very limited speech, according to The Sun

During a heart-wrenching moment from the clip he says: 'My name's Derek Draper, I want you to hear my story'

The Good Morning Britain host can be seen sitting on his bed as she asked: 'You've written Covid changed everything. Do you mean for you?,' as Drake replied: 'Yes'

Kate discussed how it feels to have completed the project, as she confessed it had been 'pretty emotional' working on it

Kate agreed as she continued: 'You're right, there's fragility, vulnerability, obviously deep ill-health and damage, but yeah he was his own man until the end.'

The mother-of-two also explained that it was Derek's decision to make the final documentary in the hope that it will bring a lot of help to people who are also suffering from long-term illness.

She explained: 'It was his idea to make this and his story, so hopefully as I say, when it's aired next Tuesday, it will bring a lot of help to a lot of people who are in the situation Derek's in with long-term illness and those around them that care for them and the professional carers as well.'

Kate previously chronicled the impact of caring for her husband in two other ITV documentaries titled Finding Derek and Caring For Derek.
Tom Schwartz revealed that he kissed Scheana Shay as secrets were exposed on Tuesday's episode of Vanderpump Rules on Bravo.

The 41-year-old reality star later was shocked to learn that his ex-wife Katie Maloney, 37, had hooked up with his friend and former castmate Max Boyens.

Schwartz made the kissing revelation when he went out for smoothies with Lala Kent, 33, and they discussed the fallout of Tom Sandoval, 41, having an affair.

'I think I have post-Sandoval brain fog,' Schwartz said. 'When I see what Tom did compared to what we've all done, I think everyone's cheated in some way, right?'

'Yeah, of course,' Lala said.

Tom Schwartz revealed that he kissed Scheana Shay as secrets were exposed on Tuesday's episode of Vanderpump Rules on Bravo

'I made out with Scheana like 12 years ago in Vegas,' Schwartz said.

'So Scheana has dabbled in the group a bit,' Lala said. 'Does Katie know?'

Schwartz said he never told her.

Later, Katie went over to Lala's house. Lala told Katie about her ex-husband Schwartz saying he made out with Scheana years ago in Las Vegas.

'What?' Katie asked.

'I don't love that they kept that for so long,' Lala said.

Later, the group gathered for James Kennedy playing a DJ event. Sandoval told Brock Davies that he wanted to say something to his ex Ariana Madix, 38, about the house but was afraid to. Brock said it would be good if they would start talking.

Scheana Shay, 38, saw that Jo Van Fleet, 25, came with Schwartz and said she didn't like her because Jo had gone with Rachel Leviss to Big Bear and then left her there with the 'Toms.'

Scheana and Schwartz never told Katie Maloney about the Las Vegas kissing incident

Katie also was grilled about hooking up with Schwartz's friend Max Boyends

'So Scheana has dabbled in the group a bit,' Lala said. 'Does Katie know?'

Schwartz said he never told Katie about kissing Scheana

'I've gotten a lot of hate from the girls,' Jo said. 'It's 100 percent bullying and it's not fun.'

Ally tried to tell the girls that Jo was coming in peace.

'She's a psychopath, you guys, come on,' Katie said.

'Know that Jo is a full blown mean girl bully who did not give a flying f*** about spending Thanksgiving with me in my home while knowing that our mutual friend was f***ing my boyfriend in my house,' Ariana said in a confessional. 'And it is not bullying to point that out.'

Jo left the event crying.

Lala and Katie were telling Ariana what they learned about Schwartz kissing Scheana when Sandoval came over.

'Hey guys, sorry to interrupt, real quick, Ariana, I don't want to bother you but I just want to make sure you got the email that I sent earlier,' Sandoval said.

'My lawyer has it,' Ariana said.

Ally tried to tell the girls that Jo was coming in peace

'Know that Jo is a full blown mean girl bully who did not give a flying f*** about spending Thanksgiving with me in my home while knowing that our mutual friend was f***ing my boyfriend in my house,' Ariana said in a confessional. 'And it is not bullying to point that out'

'Hey guys, sorry to interrupt, real quick, Ariana, I don't want to bother you but I just want to make sure you got the email that I sent earlier,' Sandoval said

'My lawyer has it,' Ariana said

'I know we want to get things going, get things moving,' Sandoval said. 'If he could just respond so we can start working on stuff, you know?'

Ariana turned her back to him and didn't address him again.

Lala said in a confessional that it was taking Ariana a long time to rid herself of this house.

'It's f***ing weird,' Lala said. 'Trust me b**** you're doing just fine. You can afford an apartment.'

Katie pulled Scheana and asked her about making out with Schwartz in Vegas. Scheana said that Schwartz simply made an attempt to kiss her.

'Can I tell you who I was making out with on that trip, Ariana,' Scheana said.

Katie didn't understand why she never told her. Scheana said she didn't want to hurt her.

'I wish I would have known,' Katie said.

Lala said in a confessional that it was taking Ariana a long time to rid herself of this house

Scheana said she didn't want to hurt her, so she never told her about it

'I wish I would have known,' Katie said

Ariana, meanwhile, told Sandoval's 25-year-old date not to waste her time on him because he was a 'narcissist'.

'Don't waste your time with a 41-year-old narcissist,' Ariana said.

'While I was at my grandmother's funeral they were f***ing in my house,' said Ariana to Billy Lee's friend Tii who went on a bowling date with Sandoval. 'You're a prize. He's not a prize.'

The episode titled Kiss, Kiss, Revenge Bang opened with James Kennedy talking to his girlfriend Ally Lewber, 28, about who was coming to his DJ event on Sunset Boulevard. Ally said she invited Jo because she wanted her to feel included.

Billie Lee visited with Sandoval at his house and she said she felt nervous coming to his house with Ariana there. She said she was going to bring her friend Tii to James' event and it would be better if he didn't live with his ex-girlfriend and could have people over.

'Everybody has roommates,' Sandoval said. 'Come on. It's LA.'

Sandoval said he didn't know what was going on with Ariana but 'I love this house.'

'The ball's in her court,' Sandoval said. 'She just has to respond to an email so we have some sort of plan of action.'

In a confessional, Sandoval said he had his lawyers draft a letter to buy Ariana out of the house for top market value but she hasn't responded.

'While I was at my grandmother's funeral they were f***ing in my house,' said Ariana to Billy Lee's friend Tii who went on a bowling date with Sandoval. 'You're a prize. He's not a prize'

In a confessional, Sandoval said he had his lawyers draft a letter to buy Ariana out of the house for top market value but she hasn't responded

Ariana was in her room doing her makeup and called Sandoval's assistant Ann. She told her that she also needed an assistant and asked her if she knew anybody.

'Ariana, can I be in the running please?' Ann said.

'Yes of course,' Ariana said.

'I want to work with you so bad,' Ann said.

The next day, Schwartz went out to lunch with Lala, James and Sandoval. Lala told them she was doing this water sommelier event and invited them.

Sandoval said he was trying to make it super easy for Ariana regarding the house. Sandoval invited Lala to do a breath meditation with him, but she said she didn't know if she was ready. She asked if she could sleep on it and then the next day she showed up at his house.

Sandoval told her he appreciated her coming over. Lala said sometimes what happened to her in her life really 'f***ed her up' and sometimes that affects her relationships.

'I would like to become better friends with you,' Sandoval said.

Sandoval after meditation told Lala he appreciated her coming over

ala said sometimes what happened to her in her life really 'f***ed her up' and sometimes that affects her relationships

'I would like to become better friends with you,' Sandoval said

Katie and Ariana went to their sandwich shop and had a few people over to try out their foods.

'Why are we doing this again?' Lala said to the camera. 'We did this last summer.'

Lala told Ariana she went to her house after Sandoval invited her to his breath meditation. She said they ended up having a productive conversation with Sandoval.

'The reason I wasn't at my house was because I was at the emergency vet because he was so insanely irresponsible with my dog,' Ariana said. 'She had to have an endoscopy.'

Ariana said Sandoval let Mya in her room and then shut her in there for hours. Ariana said her vet bill was $6,000.

'Add it to the laundry list of why my ex cannot be trusted to have decent judgment when it comes to anything,' Ariana said in a confessional.

Lala told her to have a conversation with Sandoval.

Katie and Ariana went to their sandwich shop and had a few people over to try out their foods

'There is no way I could have any type of conversation that is not literally me f***ing slitting his throat right now physically and being arrested,' Ariana said. 'This is not the first time he has given zero s***s about the well-being of what I consider to be my children.'

Lisa Vanderpump, 63, arrived with Ken Todd and Ariana and Katie brought over their sandwiches.

'I can't believe that the sandwich place is still not open,' Lisa said in a confessional. 'They signed the lease over a year ago.'

Katie told Lisa how Schwartz kissed Scheana. Schwartz then walked over and Katie told him that he messed up with her and now had 'sloppy Jo.''

Schwartz asked her to stop and walked off.

'Do you feel angry at him?' Lisa said.

'He orbits in my universe and he just failed,' Katie said.

Schwartz told Brock about what happened. Brock said Katie was overreacting and then told Schwartz how Katie left the DJ event with his close friend Max Boyens, the former manager of Tom Tom.

'She f***ed him?' Schwartz said.

'Yes this has all the tell tale signs of a revenge bang,' Schwartz said in a confessional.

Scheana said she checked Max's location that night and in the morning and said it came back as Katie's building. Sandoval arrived with Tii, after their bowling date. Ariana came to the bar and Brock told her that Tii and Sandoval went bowling.

Lisa Vanderpump, 63, arrived with Ken Todd and Ariana and Katie brought over their sandwiches

'Yes this has all the tell tale signs of a revenge bang,' Schwartz said in a confessional

Brock told Scheana that he told Schwartz about Katie being with Max. Scheana was pissed. Katie asked what was going on.

'I was just letting him know that his best friend was at his ex-wife's house,' Brock said.

Lala said she didn't recognize this version of Katie that seeks revenge and left.

Vanderpump Rules will return next Tuesday on Bravo.
Gigi Hadid turned the streets of SoHo into her runway while filming a Maybelline commercial in New York City on Tuesday.

The supermodel, 28, made a fashionable arrival as she stepped out for the shoot wearing a cropped, pink fur jacket over a gray, business-chic ensemble.

To go with the hooded outerwear, she wore a strapless, vest-style blouse teamed with a pair of high-rise, matching trousers.

She wore black leggings to keep warm underneath the balloon-style trousers and completed her look with a pair of baby blue, velvet kitten heels.

During the shoot, the television personality  who was spotted holding hands with her boyfriend, Bradley Cooper, 49, after a Broadway date night over the weekend  was seen removing the hood of her jacket and flipping her chic, blonde bob.

Gigi Hadid turned the streets of SoHo into her runway while filming a Maybelline commercial in New York City on Tuesday

The supermodel, 28, made a fashionable arrival as she stepped out for the shoot wearing a cropped, pink fur jacket over a gray, business-chic ensemble. During the shoot, the television personality was seen removing the hood of her jacket and flipping her chic, blonde bob  which was styled in soft beach waves

She looked incredible as she wore a monochromatic pink, radiant makeup look to go with her outfit.

The mother-of-one wore silver dangling earrings and diamond-encrusted bands for an additional touch of glamour.

She was seen walking around and posing on the cobblestone streets of Manhattan as onlookers stopped to admire her during the shoot.

Earlier in the day, she bared her svelte midriff in a cropped blazer and dress pants while filming on a yellow taxi cab.

The model has previously modeled for Maybelline before and even released a limited-time makeup collection with the brand back in 2017.

Earlier this month, she also shared several snaps of herself debuting her new blonde bob and showcasing her beauty in Maybelline makeup.

The star  whose mother is Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum Yolanda Hadid  also frequently posts photos of her daughter Khai, three, on her social media.

She shares her toddler with ex-boyfriend Zayn Malik, 31.

Underneath her pink jacket, she wore a strapless, vest-style blouse teamed with a pair of high-rise, matching trousers

She wore black leggings to keep warm underneath the balloon-style trousers and completed her look with a pair of baby blue, velvet kitten heels

She accessorized with silver jewelry for the shoot after baring her svelte midriff in an all-black look while filming earlier in the day

To go with her jacket, she wore a monochromatic pink makeup look complete with rosy blush and a matte pink pout

During the shoot, she was seen strolling and posing on the cobbestone streets of Manhattan as passerbys admired her beauty

And before getting back to work on Tuesday, Hadid enjoyed a weekend with her boyfriend, Bradley Cooper, as the pair were seen on multiple date nights.

Hadid and the Maestro star were seen walking hand-in-hand as they departed a Broadway show together on Saturday.

On Friday, the couple enjoyed a romantic dinner date at Cucina Alba Italian Restaurant.

Their recent date nights comes shortly after Hadid had to 'cancel' her Vanity Fair Oscar party red carpet debut with Cooper, according to a report by Us Weekly.

She and Cooper were first romantically linked last fall in early October 2023 when they were spotted on a romantic dinner date in New York City.
Derek Draper shared details of the heartwarming moment he met Kate Garraway for the first time in clips from his final emotional documentary on Tuesday evening.

Kate Garraway: Derek's Story chronicled the former political lobbyists final year of life after he passed away in January following a devastating battle with long Covid, which attacked every organ in his body.

However as well as Derek's health struggles, the documentary also included clips of the pair's wedding.

Kate and Derek tied the knot in 2005 after just one year of dating, and asked in the documentary what Derek thought when he first saw Kate, he joked: 'She's fit'.

He then added that he thought she was 'caring, lovely' and knew he wanted to marry her.

Derek Draper recalled the moment he first met his wife Kate Garraway as he reminisced on his emotional wedding speech in heartbreaking documentary on Tuesday evening

Kate and Derek tied the knot in 2005 after just one year of dating, and asked in the documentary what Derek thought when he first saw Kate, he joked: 'She's fit'

As Kate laughed at his response, she added: 'Oooh that's nice. I love you so much'.

Sharing a clip from their big day in Camden, the pair shared Derek's wedding speech as he declared: 'I have never felt more alive than I do in Kate's presence.

'Spending my limited time on this planet in the company of such a woman seemed like a damn fine idea within just a few weeks of meeting her. And thank the lord she felt the same way.'

He added: 'Thank you for making me the happiest, safest, proudest man in the world.'

In the final scene of the documentary Derek was asked what has been the most important thing to him in the last three years since his battle with Covid and he simply replied: 'Family.'

Kate and Derek were introduced by ex-GMTV political editor and former MP Gloria De Piero, in 2004 and went out for drinks on a blind date at London hotel Claridge's.

Kate previously told The Times: 'Derek arrived thinking it was a date and that I was being incredibly cool by ignoring him.'

She did however then agree to a date with the former political advisor and psychotherapist. Their loved blossomed and the pair were married the following year, tying the knot in Camden, North London, in September 2005.

Sharing a clip from their big day in Camden, the pair shared Derek's wedding speech as he declared: 'I have never felt more alive than I do in Kate's presence'

He continued: 'Spending my limited time on this planet in the company of such a woman seemed like a damn fine idea within just a few weeks of meeting her. And thank the lord she felt the same way'

He added: 'Thank you for making me the happiest, safest, proudest man in the world'

Kate and Derek were introduced by ex-GMTV political editor and former MP Gloria De Piero, in 2004 and went out for drinks on a blind date at London hotel Claridge's (pictured 2005)

Together they have two children - daughter Darcey, born March 2006 and William 'Billy', born in July 2009 (pictured 2019)

Together they have two children - daughter Darcey, born March 2006 and William 'Billy', born in July 2009.

The former political lobbyist is one of the worst affected cases of Covid in the UK, and as the programme began, Derek confessed he wanted to make this final documentary in order to 'be heard'.

And as the documentary began, viewers saw Derek speak for the first time since his battle with the virus, which attacked every organ in his body.

In heartbreaking scenes viewers saw Derek's health somewhat improving before he suffered a cardiac arrest last December which led to his passing in January.

Describing the moment after his death, Kate admitted she didn't feel relief.

'A lot of people say, as a way of comforting me, It must be a relief in a way that hes out of pain and for you, your day isnt consumed by caring for him.

But there isnt a relief. The one thing Derek has taught me is never to give up fighting for what is right.

It isnt about Derek or me, its about having a society where caring isnt a luxury, we are all going to need it.

Viewers were left in tears as Derek spoke for the first time on camera about his Covid battle before Kate described the moment he passed away in Kate Garraway: Derek's Story

Asked whether she has any regrets she made the heartbreaking admission: 'It is every single minute I didn't spend holding his hand because I had to write an email or take a call to fight the system that should be there to catch you when you fall'

As she shed light on the crippling carer system in the UK, she added: 'The one thing Derek has taught me is never give up fighting for what is right. It is not about Derek or me it is about having a society where caring is not a luxury.

'We are all going to need it. And it's not about someone coming around to come and cut up your food, it is about someone giving you a chance of living and it is belittled as that.'

Asked whether she has any regrets she made the heartbreaking admission: 'It is every single minute I didn't spend holding his hand because I had to write an email or take a call to fight the system that should be there to catch you when you fall but feels like, when youre going through it, is there to catch you out.

And thats what now, I want to be Dereks legacy, to fight on for that change.'
A Love Island star has been targeted by cruel trolls after she went on a 'date' with Davide Sancliementi.

The Italian hunk, 29, recently jetted to Stockholm where he went for drinks with Nicci Hernestig, 24, who appeared on the Swedish version of the reality show.

The pair both shared pictures from the same venue, with Davide's arm and watch appearing in one of Nicci's shots.

However, Nicci has now received horrible messages from Davide's fans who appear to be less than impressed he is moving on from ex-girlfriend Ekin-Su Culculoglu.

Nicci appeared on Love Island Sweden in January of last year, where she met and fell for Andreas Deak.

A Love Island star has been targeted by cruel trolls after she went on a 'date' with Davide Sancliementi

The Italian hunk, 29, recently jetted to Stockholm where he went for drinks with Nicci Hernestig, 24, who appeared on the Swedish version of the reality show

She welcomed her first child with Andreas in December of last year  but the pair split during the pregnancy.

One user took to Nicci's Instagram and wrote: 'Why are you with Davide? You're such a clout chaser. You should be ashamed, @ekinsuofficial this girl is using your man and you for her own fame.'

According to The Sun, others wrote: 'How do you even have so much time to be outside etc. when you have a newborn? Isn't the mother instinct there? I can't be without my daughter for even 1 hour without missing her'

'When you are a mother, you have to think carefully about who you invite into your life'... 'eally great to go out with a guy like that, when you have children'... 'Damn, you must be in a hurry'.

Davide's date with Nicci comes after the reality star was pictured out with OnlyFans model Sylvija Vasilevska.

The pair were linked while he was still with his ex Ekin-Su, who Davide split from last month just ahead of her stint on Celebrity Big Brother.

Ekin-Su reportedly dumped Davide after a year and a half - who she won Love Island with in 2022 - due to 'rows' over his friendship with Sylvija.

Sylvija has recently been branded a 'home wrecker' by Ekin-Su's fans leading her to hit back for being made out to be 'this evil porn star who has stolen her man'.

The pair both shared pictures from the same venue, with Davide's arm and watch appearing in one of Nicci's shots

Nicci appeared on Love Island Sweden in January of last year, where she met and fell for Andreas Deak

Nicci has now received horrible messages from Davide's fans who appear to be less than impressed he is moving on from ex-girlfriend Ekin-Su Culculoglu

Davide split from his on-off girlfriend Ekin-Su Culculoglu earlier this year and she subsequently entered the Celebrity Big Brother house

Davide was also seen leaving Sexy Fish bar with a group of girls including model Harriet Wilson.

Harriet was also accused of sleeping with Davide last year amid claims she received a barrage of hateful messages from Ekin-Su at the time.

Sources claimed that the time that she was branded a 'f***ing s**g' by Ekin-Su who reportedly lashed out in a foul-mouthed rant after accusing her of sleeping with her then boyfriend.

Sylvija denied of an relationship with Davide, but revealed he had 'liked a few of her stories' on social media.

Branding Ekin-Su a 'victim', the OF star told The Sun that she has been made out to be 'this evil porn star who has stolen her man'.

She said: 'I'm in shock, he's liked a few of my stories. I'm so confused as to where this has come from. She's convinced I'm the girl [that broke them up], but I am not.

'All I've done is liked his picture. It was completely innocent. Of course Ekin is upset but it's got nothing to do with me.'

'She's liking tweets about me which indicates to her fans that he did cheat with me, which prompted messages [from fans] calling me trash and a home wrecker. I'm so angry to have been dragged into this. No offence to them but I couldn't care less about their relationship.'

Since his split from Ekin-Su, Davide been spotted out with OnlyFans model Sylvija Vasilevska (seen) - after Ekin-Su reportedly dumped him due to 'rows' over his friendship with beauty

Ekin-Su and Davide broke up earlier this year after a tumultuous year and a half relationship.

Taking to her Instagram Story at the time the former Dancing On Ice contestant wrote: 'The last 18-months have been a rollercoaster of ups and downs, just like every relationship.

'Davide and I both wanted to make this work as we cared deeply for each other. Unfortunately I have recently made the decision to end our relationship and to go our separate ways...

'Breakups are never easy. For any couple. And we hope that our privacy will be respected. I enjoyed our time together and the memories we made.

'Thank you for your continued support. It's been so lovely to have you follow our Love Island journeys together since the villa and we hope you'll continue to follow our careers as we go off in our own directions. Love always, Ekin-Su.'

Davide and Ekin-Su are pictured in June 2023 in happier times

Davide released his own statement later that same day also on his Instagram story, and used the same font and colours as Ekin-Su.

He wrote: 'Life sometimes reserves surprises and suddenly wakes you up... Ekin and I, just after the ski holidays, decided to go different ways. It was a joint decision, but I was waiting to make it public to respect her time in the show.'

Hinting at foul play from Ekin-Su, he said: 'I don't know why the agreed statement changed last minute, but continued: 'I agree, it was a beautiful story even with its ups and downs like all couples.

'I loved every moment, from the first time I knew her in the Villa until the life outside. I really believed in us and saw a future for us.

'But sometimes in life people need to grow apart. Is just the direction of life. I will treasure our moments forever.'

He signed off by saying: 'Now it's time to focus on myself. I love you all always, thank you for the unconditional support everyone showed me from the beginning. Davide.'
Bianca Censori cracked a very rare smile when a TikToker sang to her at her husband Kanye West's concert.

User husnain_asif took to the social media platform on Tuesday to share his experiences at the Rolling Loud festival in Los Angeles a few weeks ago, when he ended up in the 'friends and family' area of the audience.

Asif shared several clips to TikTok of himself singing along to Kanye as he performed several songs from the hip hop star's new album with Ty Dolla $ign, Vultures.

During one notable moment, the UK content creator filmed Bianca, 29, in the VIP area as he crooned the lyrics to Kanye's single, Back to Me, towards her.

'Beautiful, naked, big-t**ty women just don't fall out the sky, you know?', he sang, as the Australian designer smiled at his cheekiness.

Bianca Censori was very entertained when a TikToker sang to her at her husband Kanye West's concert. Pictured: Kanye West and Bianca Censori

During one notable moment, UK content creator husnain_asif filmed Bianca, 29, (pictured right) in the VIP area as he crooned the lyrics to Kanye's single, Back to Me, towards her

In contrast to many other of Censori's appearances, she was covered up in an oversized black jacket at this event.

Bianca wore her dark hair slicked back and went for a natural makeup look as she grinned at Asif's boldness.

The TikToker's followers sounded off in the comments about the interaction.

'My God this guy doesn't stop, even making Kayne's girl smile,' wrote one, while another noted 'the way Bianca looked at you.'

Meanwhile, another claimed 'Bianca ready to risk it all,' and one more said 'Bianca is absolutely gorgeous.'

It comes as Kanye, 46, who has demanded the music industry refer to him as 'Ye', says that he and his wife have a very good reason for their provocative public appearances.

Kanye and Bianca often raise eyebrows when they step out in public together due to her very racy outfits. Pictured in Milan in February

Page Six has asserted that the ex-husband of Kim Kardashian considers Bianca's outlandish clothing choices 'performance art.'

'People are confusing Biancas creativity,' the source told the site. 'She is a phenomenal personality, a phenomenal actor, who can entertain the public.

'Shes a performance artist. Bianca is as much a performer as Ye is,' it was added.

On Friday, the Vultures artist posted a photo of Censori wearing a strapless white lace leotard and white high heeled sandals, lying in a white bed.

'I think its Ye saying, "My b***h is living in the lap of luxury, I dont know what you all are doing today, but I hope youre all just chilling like me. This is my business." The room is all bed. Its a new context on bedroom,'" Malik Yusef, a musical partner of West, told the outlet.

'She makes her own decisions on how to dress,' contended Yusef. 'I think [she and West] experiment together and say, "Hey, this is beautiful."

Censori trained as an architect in Australia.
Nicky Hilton looked effortlessly stylish on Tuesday while stepping out in a turtleneck sweater and denim skirt in New York City.

The 40-year-old socialite wore a brown sweater under a black coat and completed her urban chic outfit with a long faded blue denim skirt with a front slit.

She also wore brown heeled ankle boots and a brown leather belt while carrying a black-and-tan purse.

Nicky accessorized with sunglasses and had her blonde hair pulled back.

She accentuated her natural beauty with just a hint of makeup while taking a stroll in New York City after recently co-hosting a birthday party for her mother Kathy Hilton.

Nicky Hilton looked effortlessly stylish on Tuesday while stepping out in a turtleneck sweater and denim skirt in New York City

Nicky earlier this month revealed her son's name nearly two years after welcoming him with husband James Rothschild.

James and Nicky also have two daughters, Lily-Grace, seven, and Teddy Marilyn, six, as well as their little boy.

Although they were forthcoming with their daughters' names, Nicky and James were assiduously private about what they have called their son.

In a recent interview with Us Weekly, she dished that her son is called Chasen, explaining: 'We always liked the name, and it was unusual.'

She still thinks of Chasen as her 'little baby' and 'cant believe that hes going to be entering preschool in the fall,' she revealed.

'Hes trying to talk. Hes saying lots of words, but no full sentences yet. Hes so sweet and his big sisters adore him,' the proud mother-of-three added.

'They love him. Zero jealousy. They just dote over him. Im very lucky that all of my children get along extremely well,' Nicky shared, adding: 'The girls have their occasional bickering, but everyone gets along.'

Chasen is exactly 'like his dad,' Nicky said fondly, explaining that she meant her one-year-old was 'very, very serious. Its so cute.'

The 40-year-old socialite wore a brown sweater under a black coat and completed her urban chic outfit with a long denim skirt with a front slit

Nicky, shown recently on Instagram, has three children with husband James Rothschild

James and Nicky, shown earlier this month in Beverly Hills, California, have been married since 2015

Nicky is shown with her mother Kathy Hilton earlier this month in Los Angeles

Teddy is 'definitely' the 'more girly and feminine' of the two sisters, while Lily-Grace is 'more like me, a little more quiet and reserved,' noted Nicky.

Nicky married James, a grandson of the third Baron Rothschild, in 2015 in a ceremony in the Orangery at Kensington Palace with her older sister Paris, 43, as maid of honor.

Paris herself became a mother twice last year, welcoming two children via surrogacy with her venture capitalist husband Carter Reum.

They shocked the world in January 2023 when they announced the arrival of their son Phoenix, and then did so again on Thanksgiving when Paris broke the news that she now had a daughter and had called her London.
Tom Allen has spoken of his pride at making a documentary to celebrate 10 years of gay marriage,

The comedian, 40, is fronting My Big Gay Wedding which is set to air on BBC One on Wednesday 27 March at 9pm.

It will follow the planning of a dream wedding for gay couple Adam Johnson and Dan Mackey.

The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act won Royal Assent on 17 July 2013, meaning queer couples could marry in England and Wales from 29 March 2014.

Peter McGraith and David Cabreza from North London were the first gay couple to marry at one minute past minute on 29 March 2014.

Tom Allen has spoken of his pride at making a documentary to celebrate 10 years of gay marriage

The comedian, 40, is fronting My Big Gay Wedding which is set to air on BBC One on Wednesday 27 March at 9pm

In Tom's documentary he recounts growing up gay and looks at how far LGBTQ+ rights have advanced between then and now.

He also follows the planning of Adam and Dan's wedding as their loved ones help them create a spectacular day.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Tom spoke of his pride at making the programme.

He said: 'I have got a documentary coming out tomorrow. My Big Gay Wedding celebrating 10 years of gay marriage and that goes out tomorrow at nine on BBC One.

'I am very proud of that, its my first ever documentary. Its been an experience.'

He joked: I always say, have people forgotten their vows? Is that why they renew them?

Ahead of the broadcast, Tom said in a statement about the documentary: 'The fact that same-sex couples couldnt get married here just 10 years ago means we should never be complacent about the progress weve made and so its only right to celebrate it thoroughly.

'Im looking forward to making this joyous celebration of love and gay marriage, or garriage as I like to call it.'

It will follow the planning of a dream wedding for gay couple Adam Johnson and Dan Mackey

Tom follows the planning of Adam and Dan's wedding as their loved ones help them create a spectacular day

The couple featured in My Big Gay Wedding also spoke of their feelings ahead of their nuptials.

Adam said: 'This documentary celebrates an important moment for the LGBTQIA+ community and gave Dan and I the opportunity to share our love for each other in a loud and proud way.'

Dan added: 'Both Adam and I love being creative and getting stuck in, making a dreamlike day come to life where we could break traditional wedding rules.'

My Big Gay Wedding with Tom Allen airs on BBC One on Wednesday 27 March at 9pm.
Gemma Collins finally managed to flog her size 42H bra on Depop for 20, five months after first putting it up for sale.

The former The Only Way Is Essex fan-favourite, 43, put the brassiere up for sale in November.

After buying the lacy white bra new for 107, Gemma first tried to sell it for 80 on Depop, before slashing the price to 56 within days offering 30 per cent off.

As the lingerie continued to go unsold, Gemma - known as The GC - was then forced to cut the price to just 20 three weeks ago - when it was finally snapped up.

Gemma did not clarify in her post whether or not the bra had been worn at all, but it came with tags attached.

Gemma Collins finally managed to flog her size 42H bra on Depop for 20, five months after first putting it up for sale in November (Pictured in May 2023)

After buying the lacy white bra new for 107, Gemma first tried to sell it for 80 on Depop, before slashing the price to 56 within days offering 30 per cent off

The description for the lacy white bra from Prima Donna reads: 'This full cup bra is sexy, comfortable and super-luxurious.

'The removable straps accentuate your feminine cleavage. Looks great under a V-neck top.'

Gemma - who has also appeared on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! and Celebrity Big Brother - has mixed reviews on Depop.

One purchaser fumed about the black top she bought, saying: 'Not as described, unfortunately. Arrived with a strange smell and appeared worn despite having labels still on. Delivery took a while and I had to chase on a delivery update.'

And another who bought a colourful two-piece added: 'Chase, chase, chase. No communication unless you communicate and get it posted.'

However there were also positive experiences, with one person leaving a glowing review saying: 'Gemma is one stunning lady, very polite and lovely person the top came quickly with postage & definitely would buy again.

'The top looks great and fits perfect helps to buy plus size as its hard to grab plus size these days. Huge fan and very happy buyer.'

The TV star is selling 174 items of clothing on her account, including dresses, tops, shoes and bags.

The former The Only Way Is Essex fan-favourite, 43, put the brassiere up for sale in November (Pictured in March 2023)

As the lingerie continued to go unsold, Gemma - known as The GC - was then forced to cut the price to just 20 three weeks ago - when it was finally been snapped up

Gemma - who has also appeared on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! and Celebrity Big Brother - has mixed reviews on Depop

It comes after Gemma revealed that she once blew 100,000 in one week on a luxurious trip to Mykonos.

Gemma admitted that despite the Greek island being 'pure magic', you need 'big pockets' to be able to stay there.

She added that she stayed in a hotel back in 2022 that cost her 21,000 for a seven-night stay - before factoring in the prices of meals and dinners out and activities.

She told The Times: 'I've got to be honest, when I go on holiday it's not just a five or ten-grand holiday. It ends up costing a fortune.

'Mykonos is pure magic, but you need big pockets to go there  100,000 should cover all your meals, activities and accommodation for a week.

'We stayed at the Cavo Tagoo hotel in 2022 and it was 21,000 for the seven-night stay alone.'

Gemmahas revealed that she once blew 100,000 in one week on a luxurious trip to Mykonos

The former TOWIE star admitted that despite the Greek island being 'pure magic', you need 'big pockets' to be able to stay there

She told The Times : 'I've got to be honest, when I go on holiday it's not just a five or ten-grand holiday. It ends up costing a fortune' (seen in Sicily)

Gemma shot onto our screens in 2011 when she joined the cast of The Only Way Is Essex as a humble car sales woman.

And for the four years that followed she became a household name on the much-loved reality show with her iconic one liners and dramatic arguments.

Since leaving the show she's amassed a huge platform and 2.2million Instagram followers and has gone on to make millions form various businesses, TV appearances and brand deals.
A view of the Smokehouse Creek fire from a fire truck at the Texas panhandle region in Texas, United States on February 29, 2024. Five leading Midland energy companies have come together to donate $200,000 to the Amarillo Area Foundation's Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund. Photo by Greenville Firefighter Association/ Handout /Anadolu via Getty Images

Five of Midlands leading oil and natural gas companies have united to provide support to those impacted by the wildfires in the Texas Panhandle.

Our thoughts are with those affected by these devastating wildfires, ConocoPhillips Lower 48 Executive Vice President Nick Olds, told the Reporter-Telegram by email. We want to thank the emergency responders and volunteers for their ongoing efforts, and organizations like the Amarillo Area Foundation for efficiently directing our donation to those who need it most.

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Catie Matthews, Chevron public and government affairs advisor, commented to the Reporter-Telegram by email, The Texas Panhandle is essentially our next-door neighbor and we felt compelled to support them in their time of need. We are grateful for the stewardship demonstrated by the Amarillo Area Foundation in directing these funds where they are most needed in an efficient manner. Our thoughts remain with everyone impacted by the devastation the wildfires have caused.

Permian Resources Co-Chief Executive Officer Will Hickey told the Reporter-Telegram by email, Permian Resources is dedicated to supporting West Texas and our surrounding communities, especially during times of need. Along with several other leading companies in the region, Permian Resources is proud to contribute to the Amarillo Area Foundations Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund. These donations are being made to help those recently impacted by historic wildfires in the Texas Panhandle, providing both immediate relief and long-term support.

The Amarillo Area Foundations Panhandle Disaster Relief Fund is being used to address the immediate needs of those impacted by the devastating wildfires in our region, said Clay Stribling, President and CEO of Amarillo Area Foundation. We are focused on food, water, shelter, and clothing. We will also work closely with regional providers to address long-term needs like grief and trauma counseling, livestock and agriculture losses, first responder organizations and their readiness, and other needs that arise as we more closely identify the damage done to our communities.

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The fund, which was activated in response to the urgent needs of wildfire-affected communities, has already allocated over $1.3 million in grants to organizations providing direct relief. The fund addresses immediate needs such as food, water, and shelter as well as facilitating long-term recovery efforts like grief counseling and agricultural support.
Iconic music festival Splendour in the Grass has been cancelled for 2024, leaving fans devastated.

Australian pop princess Kylie Minogue, 55, was set to headline the three-day music event held from July 19 to 21 at the North Byron Parklands.

Other popular artists slated to perform had included G Flip, Arcade Fire and Future.

Sources claimed the festival was most likely cancelled due to poor ticket sales, but organisers said in a statement it was because of 'unexpected events'.

A statement read: 'With a heavy heart, we're announcing the cancellation of Splendour in the Grass 2024, originally scheduled from Friday 19 July to Sunday 21 July in Ngarindjin / North Byron Parklands.

Iconic music festival Splendour in the Grass has been cancelled for 2024

'We know there were many fans excited for this year's line-up and all the great artists planning to join us, but due to unexpected events we'll be taking the year off. Ticket holders will be refunded automatically by Moshtix.

'We thank you for your understanding and will be working hard to be back in future years.'

Jessica Ducrou and Paul Piticco, of event organisers Secret Sounds, added 'We're heartbroken to be missing a year especially after more than two decades in operation.

'This festival has always been a huge community effort, and we'd like to thank everyone for their support and overall faith. We hope to be back in the future.'

The news comes after the 2023 festival recorded a 30 per cent drop in tickets sales.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Secret Sounds for further comment.

Since its inception in 2001, Splendour in the Grass has been held in various locations in NSW and Queensland.

Australian pop princess Kylie Minogue , 55, was set to headline the three day music festival held from 19 - 21 July

At the height of its popularity, the festival attracted 50,000 revelers across the three days.

However, this year's line up copped criticism over its lack of renowned headlining international acts, with American rapper Future, 40, being the only global star slated to perform.

In the past, Splendour has had a slew of international acts perform, including Kendrick Lamar, Tyler the Creator, Flume, Queens of the Stone Age and The Smashing Pumpkins.

In addition, the festival attracted some of Australia's most renowned artists, including Powderfinger, Missy Higgins and Hilltop Hoods.

However, the reception towards the 2024 line up was lukewarm, with fans questioning why they couldn't attract a more high profile acts.

Canadian Indie rock band Arcade Fire was also slated to perform

'Absolutely rubbish. It's one of the only festivals in Australia big enough to pull a semi exciting and decent line up and the biggest in the way of overseas headliners is Future,' one frustrated fan commented.

'Australian festivals are f**ked. How is Future the only good international act?' another agreed, as someone else added: 'Australian music festivals are so boring omg.'

Splendour in the Grass is the latest in a long line of music festivals which have been axed this year.

One of Australia's largest music festivals Groovin the Moo was forced to cancel its upcoming tour of shows just two months before it was set to start.

In February, organisers announced that the festivals across regional Australia wouldn't be going ahead in 2024, citing poor ticket sales.

At the height of its popularity, Splendour in the Grass attracted 50,000 revelers across the three days

The touring festival was set to appear in cities such as Wayville, Canberra, Bendigo, Newcastle, Bunbury and the Sunshine Coast between April 25 and May 11.

Aussie rock legends Jet were set to play alongside Australian music heavyweights such as San Cisco, DMA's, The Jungle Giants and King Stingray.

In January, ValleyWays - a music festival featuring some of Australia's biggest bands - was cancelled just weeks before it was set to take place.

ValleyWays was getting ready to host revellers at Onslow Oval in Camden, in Sydney's southwest, on February 17, until it was announced that it will not go ahead.

The festival was created in 2022 by Hottest 100 winners The Rubens in partnership with TEG MJR, a touring and events business that is set to tour Hans Zimmer through Australia.

This year's festival line up copped criticism over its lack of renowned headlining international acts, with American rapper Future, 40, being the only global star slated to perform

The reception towards the 2024 line up was lukewarm, with fans questioning why they couldn't attract a more renowned acts

In the same month, Tent Pole Music Festival cancelled their event just weeks before it was due to kick off with organisers, blaming the 'impossible' economic climate.

It was set to go ahead on February 17 at Mt Duneed Estate in Geelong, Victoria, but was forced to offer ticketholders a full refund after it was canned.

On Tuesday, it was reported that new rock festival Pandemonium Rocks is set to go ahead with its scheduled concerts, despite earlier reports stating the shows had been cancelled.

Legendary rock acts Blondie, Alice Cooper, Placebo, Deep Purple and Wheatus are among the headline acts scheduled to perform across two stages.

A festival spokesperson took to social media to reassure disappointed fans the concerts were still happening - albeit with some changes.
Three weeks after the tragic passing of Sister Wives star Garrison Brown, his older brother Hunter opened up.

Garrison was just 25 years of age when he was found dead in his Arizona home on March 5 from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The reality star was laid to rest on March 12, with the 27-year-old Harrison taking to Instagram with a slew of snaps and a touching tribute.

He began with the title of a 2022 Trey Pendley song, 'When tomorrow starts without me'

'I have no eulogy to give or long caption for you to read. All I can say is that I love Garrison and he has always been and will always be a huge part of my life,' he said.

Three weeks after the tragic passing of Sister Wives star Garrison Brown, his older brother Hunter opened up

The reality star was laid to rest on March 12, with the 27-year-old Harrison taking to Instagram with a slew of snaps and a touching tribute

'I will forever work at being better at enjoying every moment, big or small, with my loved ones. I would encourage you to do the same!' he added.

Hunter concluded with a quote from the 2000 Best Picture winner Gladiator: 'Now we are free I will see you again, but not yet. Not yet.'

Hunter's post also featured several snaps of the siblings throughout the years from childhood to adulthood.

The death of Garrison has sent shockwaves through the massive Brown family over the past few weeks.

His mother Janelle, 54, said she was 'deeply saddened' by the death of 'our beautiful boy' in a statement.

'He was a bright spot in the lives of all who knew him. His loss will leave such a big hole in our lives that it takes our breath away,' she wrote on Instagram.

A source close to the family claimed Janelle had 'definitely not processed' Garrison's death and was devastated despite not being 'a crier or an emotional person.'

'I've never heard her so angry and numb. She's not processed clearly,' they told The Sun.

'I will forever work at being better at enjoying every moment, big or small, with my loved ones. I would encourage you to do the same!' he added.

'Takes a lot to get her to break. So I think right now she's going to go on what the heck happened, what did I do wrong?'

'This family is extremely broken and tortured and it's very painful for many of them.'

Garrison's cousin Emma Brown shared an Instagram post on Saturday, the day he was laid to rest, with several throwback snaps of the reality star.

She also wrote a heartfelt message to her late cousin in the post, in which she shares her thoughts after he was laid to rest.

'Dear Robert, I had to dress up for your funeral today and this is everything i wish you couldve heard before i had to say goodbye.'

'We love you. I dont even own a picture of you without your contagious smile. I dont know if I have the right words to say Ill miss you,' she added.

'I wish i was able to give you a hug and tell you how much you were loved. You were human, you had flaws but never once did i doubt the friendship we had,' she continued.

Garrison's cousin Emma Brown shared an Instagram post on Saturday, the day he was laid to rest, with several throwback snaps of the reality star

'We love you. I dont even own a picture of you without your contagious smile. I dont know if I have the right words to say Ill miss you,' she added

'Ill always cherish the times i got to spend with you. We planned to go on so many backpacking trips but only made it to one,' she continued

'Ill always cherish the times i got to spend with you. We planned to go on so many backpacking trips but only made it to one,' she continued.

'Ill miss your goofy dad jokes, our coffee runs, the dinners we shared. the times we watched movies and you always let me put messy face masks all over our faces,' Emma added.

'You always made sure that i had ate, and made sure I knew I could always talk to you. You were a son, a brother, a soldier, and a friend. If there is a god I hope hes giving you peace. I love you Robert,' she concluded.
Jack Antonoff shut down an interview after being asked if he was collaborating on pal Taylor Swift's upcoming album, The Tortured Poets Department.

The songwriter and record producer, 39, who's frequently worked with the Bad Blood hitmaker, 34, in the past, hung up on a Dutch news outlet NRC after being questioned about the project, as per Page Six.

'You know I don't talk about that. If you're looking for clickbait, you've come to the wrong place. Thank you for this conversation,' he said, before ending the interview.

Earlier in the conversation Antonoff  who recently slammed Swift's nemesis Kanye West  mentioned Swift as he compared his latest project Bleachers with the music he has produced for Swift as well as songbird Lana Del Rey, 38.

'I don't see it as producing. I create music with my friends. It comes as it comes. I'm not the kind of producer who likes to give commands from behind a mixing console.'

Jack Antonoff shut down an interview after being asked if he was collaborating on pal Taylor Swift's upcoming album, The Tortured Poets Department; he is seen in March in NYC

The record producer, 39, who's frequently worked with Swift, 34, in the past, hung up on a Dutch news outlet NRC after being questioned about the project; the two seen in 2024

'I concern myself with the music itself; the way in which you can manage the creative process,' he explained.

'Success is a strange phenomenon. It distracts attention from the ordinary mechanisms that lead to good pop music,' he added.

'Being able to listen to each other well is one thing. The artists I work with trust that I can help them make their music better.'

Tortured Poets Department is Swift's 11th studio album scheduled to be released on April 19.

Swift shocked fans when she announced her new album while accepting a 2024 Grammy in February for best pop vocal album for Midnights, which Antonoff co-produced. He also co-wrote 12 of the 13 songs on the LP.

It's not the first time Antonoff has proved to be a fiercely loyal friend to Swift, after he defended her songwriting abilities and said questioning it 'is like challenging someone's faith in God.'

Two years ago, Gorillaz and Blur frontman Damon Albarn scoffed to the LA Times that the pop star 'doesn't write her own songs.'

Outraged, Jack took to Twitter to call the 55-year-old Englishman an 'herb' and wrote: 'I've never met Damon Albarn and he's never been to my studio but apparently he knows more than the rest of us about all those songs Taylor writes and brings in.'

'You know I don't talk about that. If you're looking for clickbait, you've come to the wrong place. Thank you for this conversation,' he said, before ending the interview; seen in 2021

Earlier in the conversation Antonoff mentioned Swift as he compared his latest project Bleachers with the music he has produced for Swift as well as songbird Lana Del Rey, 38

'I don't see it as producing. I create music with my friends. It comes as it comes. I'm not the kind of producer who likes to give commands from behind a mixing console'

Antonoff and Swift's collaboration began sometime in 2013. Jack went on to write and produce songs on her albums 1989, Reputation, Lover, Folklore, Fearless (Taylor's Version), Red (Taylor's Version), Speak Now (Taylor's Version), 1989 (Taylor's Version), and Midnights

'I'm a little b**** sometimes,' Antonoff told the LA Times last month about the Tweet.

'But you come after my friend Taylor, you're toast to me. [That] is like challenging someone's faith in God. You just don't go there.'

Damon decided to 'apologize unreservedly and unconditionally' after Taylor tweeted: 'I was such a big fan of yours until I saw this. I write ALL of my own songs. Your hot take is completely false and SO damaging. You don't have to like my songs but it's really f***ed up to try and discredit my writing. WOW.'

Last month Jack also slammed Kanye West and said he needs 'his diaper changed' amid the ongoing feud between the controversial musician and Taylor.

Kanye has feuded with Taylor ever since he crashed the pop idol's acceptance speech at the 2009 VMAs when she won the best female video prize for You Belong With Me.

At the time Kanye barged onto the stage and interrupted her acceptance speech, saying Beyonce deserved the award.

In recent weeks, Kanye, 46, has claimed he has actually been 'been far more helpful to Taylor's career than harmful', and denied claims that she got him kicked out of the Super Bowl when he tried to 'upstage' her.

But hitting back at the rapper's continued tirade, producer Jack said he 'just needs his diaper changed so badly'.

Tortured Poets Department is Swift's 11th studio album scheduled to be released on April 19

Swift shocked fans when she announced her new album while accepting a 2024 Grammy in February for best pop vocal album for Midnights, which Antonoff co-produced

Antonoff and Swift's collaboration began sometime in 2013.

Jack went on to write and produce songs on the blonde billionaire's albums 1989, Reputation, Lover, Folklore, Fearless (Taylor's Version), Red (Taylor's Version), Speak Now (Taylor's Version), 1989 (Taylor's Version), and Midnights.

The New Jersey native - who wed Margaret Qualley on August 19 - produced the modern cover songs for Todd A. Kessler's dismally-reviewed 10-episode Christian Dior biopic The New Look, which airs Wednesdays on Apple TV+.

Jack's band The Bleachers released their self-titled fourth studio album on March 8.
Best friends Chris Hemsworth, 40, and Matt Damon, 52, have taken their bond to another level by getting tattoos together.

In several Instagram photos, the pair are seen being inked by talented Bang Bang tattoo artist Corina Weikl at a private residence in Los Angeles.

One captured Chris holding Matt's hand while Weikl crafted the design on his right bicep, as their wives Elsa Pataky and Luciana Damon looked on.

In another, Chris proudly displayed his fresh ink, showcasing a striking display of abstract lines down his left forearm.

The pair got the tattoos just before attending this year's Oscars.

Best friends Chris Hemsworth, 40 (left), and Matt Damon , 52 (right), have taken their bond to another level by getting tattoos together

Weikl posted the photos on her Instagram page and wrote in the caption: 'Pre-game hangs before the Oscars with @chrishemsworth @elsapataky #mattdamon @dameluce. I love my job. Thank you for being so great.'

Chris' wife Elsa, 47, also stepped into the tattoo chair to get a stunning ink design of a half moon and stars on the back of her right hand.

Matt and Chris have enjoyed a close friendship of over a decade, with Damon frequently flying to Sydney to hang out with Chris at his Byron Bay mansion.

Chris is married to Spanish model and actress Elsa, with whom he shares his daughter India, 11, and twin sons Sasha and Tristan, nine.

Meanwhile, Matt and his wife Luciana have three daughters together - Isabella, 17, Gia, 15, and Stella, 13. The Bourne Identity star is also a stepfather to Luciana's daughter from a previous marriage, Alexia, now 24.

In several Instagram photos, the pair are seen being inked by talented Bang Bang tattoo artist Corina Weikl at a private residence in Los Angeles. One captured Chris holding Matt's hand while Weikl crafted the design on his right bicep, as their wives Elsa Pataky and Luciana Barroso looked on

Chris has been buddies with Matt since before becoming a star, the Australian hunk explained to GQ in a 2014 interview.

'We became friends around the time I started to work, and I've really benefited from watching how he handles himself,' Chris dished. 'Matt's just a normal guy who has the movie-star thing figured out.'

A few years ago, Elsa gushed to People magazine that Matt 'is an amazing dad and an amazing person, he's so easy.'

Chris proudly displayed his freshly inked arm, showcasing a striking display of abstract lines across his left forearm

Chris' wife Elsa Pataky (pictured), 47, also stepped into the tattoo chair to get a stunning ink design of a half moon and stars on the back of her right hand

Elsa, who hails from Spain, noted that Matt's 'wife is Argentinian so we speak Spanish. So for me its a relief, yes, somebody I can speak Spanish with! We've become very good friends.'

Luciana and Elsa went so far as to get matching pinky tattoos when they spent Christmas of 2017 together in Australia.

The movie stars' families have taken holidays together, traveling to such glamorous destinations as Monaco and Costa Rica.
Rose Byrne reunited with her Bridesmaids co-star Kristen Wiig at the PaleyLive event for Palm Royale on Tuesday.

As the moderator for the evening, she joined the stars of the Apple TV+ drama series, Wiig, 50, and Carol Burnett at The Paley Museum in New York City.

Ahead of the advance screening of the fourth episode and a conversation with the leading stars, Byrne, 44, and Wiig  who starred alongside each other in the 2011 rom-com Bridesmaids  posed for photos together on the red carpet.

Byrne  who recently said a Bridesmaids sequel would 'never' happen  put on an elegant display in a brown, pinstriped blazer over a cream-colored blouse and black trousers.

She added fun pops of color to her ensemble with a pair of coral-colored heels and a bold red lip.

Rose Byrne reunited with her Bridesmaids co-star Kristen Wiig at the PaleyLive event for Palm Royale on Tuesday

As the moderator for the evening, she joined the stars of the Apple TV+ drama series, Wiig, 50, and Carol Burnett at The Paley Museum in New York City

For a dewy flush, she also applied bright pink blush to complete her look.

As for the comedian, she looked stylish in a camel-colored blazer layered over a gray polo top.

She also donned a pair of dark blue jeans and brown leather boots for her chic ensemble.

She styled her honey blonde bob in soft beach waves and opted for a rosy and glowing makeup look to highlight her beauty.

Palm Royale follows Maxine Simmons (Wiig) as she tries to break into Palm Beach high society.

Carol Burnett stars opposite her as Norma, the heiress of a plastics and mouthwash dynasty.

While promoting their new show recently, Wiig shut down any possibility of a Bridesmaids sequel.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter published earlier this month, she expressed her disinterest in making a second movie.

Byrne put on an elegant display in a brown, pinstriped blazer over a cream-colored blouse and black trousers

The duo shared a giggle together while posing for snaps on the red carpet

Byrne added fun pops of color to her ensemble with a pair of coral-colored heels and a bold red lip. For a dewy flush, she also applied bright pink blush to complete her look

Wiig looked stylish in a camel-colored blazer layered over a gray polo top

The comedian also donned a pair of dark blue jeans and brown leather boots for her chic ensemble. She styled her honey blonde bob in soft beach waves and opted for a rosy and glowing makeup look to highlight her beauty

It comes after Maya Rudolph shared her thoughts on a potential sequel to Bridesmaids shortly after her co-star, Kristen, revealed she had no plans to return to the project

Maya stunned at a recent SAG-AFTRA event in a chic wrap dress which she teamed with Elizabeth Hooper Studio Large Petal Hoops and matching Petal Ring in sterling silver

'It's never been a conversation,' she admitted.

'That story had an end, and it's so beloved to me for 10 million reasons, and I think it's OK to just have it exist in the world as it is.'

As for Byrne, she told People in May 2023 that she would 'of course' be down to make a sequel but only if the rest of the Bridesmaids wanted to too.

'If all the girls were in, I absolutely would,' she said at the time. 'It's a hard act to follow because the first film was so great. It was so magical and so beloved.'
Christine Quinn's estranged husband Christian Richard claims that he fears she may try to abduct their child in a new court filing.

In his paperwork requesting a restraining order against the 35-year-old former Selling Sunset star, Richard (real name: Christian Dumontet) asked the judge to prevent her from leaving Los Angeles County with their two-year-old son Christian Georges Dumontet, according to documents obtained by People.

The latest development follows reports that Quinn is looking to get a temporary restraining order against Richard after he was arrested last week for assault with a deadly weapon after allegedly injuring their toddler, though she reportedly plans to eventually request a permanent restraining order against him.

According to the request, Richard  who used the pseudonym for his appearances on his estranged wife's reality show  is requesting that Quinn move out of their home and stay at least 100 yards (91.44 meters) from the house.

One of the reasons the tech founder cited for the requesting the restraining order is his fear that Quinn may try to flee Southern California with their son Christian.

Christine Quinn's husband Christian Richard (aka Dumontet) claimed in a restraining order request that he fears she may try to abduct their two-year-old son Christian (pictured), according to People; seen in June 2023

He claims in his filing that she has threatened to taking their son away from him in the past; pictured in April 2023 in Beverly Hills

In his filing, Richard claimed that Quinn 'has a history of threatening to take away or hide our children from me,' and he alleged that she had been 'not cooperating' with him on parenting decisions.

He claimed he feared that Quinn was likely to try to kidnap their son because she was not anchored to California by family, as her parents 'who she is very close to live in Texas.'

It's unclear what Quinn's primary employment is now that she has departed Netflix's high-priced real estate series Selling Sunset.

Surprisingly, despite claiming that his ex is a risk to allegedly abduct their child, Richard said he wants to allow Quinn to continue to have joint custody over Christian, and he is reportedly fine with her being unmonitored when she is caring for their son.

He does, however, want her to provide documentation and itineraries in advance for any trips she plans to take with Christian.

Richard, who wed the ex Selling Sunset star, in 2019, was previously seen being led away in handcuffs by officers while barefoot and clad in only a bathrobe last Tuesday after the incident involving the couple's only child Christian Georges Dumontet, two.

It was claimed Richard had thrown a bag containing a glass bottle at Quinn but missed and hit their son instead  but Richard is now alleging the row erupted over Quinn's dogs urinating on his belongings  with the entrepreneur denying hitting their son, per TMZ.

Richard has filed for a temporary restraining order (TRO) that seeks to enforce a 'legal forcefield around him' - which he says is essential in light of Quinn's domestic violence allegations against him - which he denies.

Richard claims the two family dogs are not housetrained and urinate and defecate all over their LA home - and says Quinn refuses to have them trained.

'Mr. Dumontet constantly finds himself the only one cleaning up after the dogs, so much so that operating and cleaning the remote vacuum cleaner has become a bonding activity between himself and 3-year-old Christian,' the filing said, according to People.

Notably, Christine has said that Christian was born in May of 2021, which would make him only two years old.

The tech founder went on to claim that he discovered the two dogs had 'urinated all over some valuable belongings of his' despite him blocking off the area from the dogs.

Richard claimed Quinn was at risk of fleeing because her parents live in Texas, and he claimed that she had not cooperated on parenting with him; pictured in 2021 in LA

Richard filed for a restraining order against Quinn after he was arrested last week for 'assault with a deadly weapon' over an incident involving her and their toddler son; seen together in March 2023 in LA

Richard, 45, who wed the ex Selling Sunset star, 35, in 2019, was seen being led away in handcuffs by officers while barefoot and clad in only a bathrobe on Tuesday after the incident involving the couple's only child Christian Georges Dumontet, two

Richard was arrested for allegedly throwing a bag of glass at Christine but instead hitting their son, but he claimed there was no glass in the bag in his restraining order request

Richard claims when he went to confront Quinn about he found her in their bedroom with cleaning supplies and other items 'strewn about all over.'

Richard claims when he went to confront Quinn about he found her in their bedroom with cleaning supplies and other items 'strewn about all over.'

He says he became angry and picked up a trash bag on the ground - which he claims was full of soiled rags and paper towels - and threw it against a wall.

Richard denies throwing the bag at Quinn and denies hitting their young son, while also denying the bag was filled with glass. He says this information was relayed to Quinn by police.

After the bag was thrown Richard claims he tried to escort his son away from the scene but claims Quinn grabbed their son and holed in another room in the house.

Richard says police came in with guns raised and arrested him over 'lies' Quinn had told them.

He further claims Quinn filed a false police report and 'fabricated' domestic violence allegations against him to use as leverage in a potential divorce and custody battle.

Richard claims Quinn wants to 'embarrass him' which is why she called police. A judge has yet to approve his request for the TRO.

DailyMail.com has contacted Christine Quinn's representatives for comment.

This comes as Quinn is reportedly moving to ensure that her estranged husband Richard is kept far away from her and their son.

The Selling Sunset star has been meeting with lawyers to set in motion a temporary restraining order against Richard (real name: Christian Dumontet), according to TMZ.

The latest development comes after sources claimed that the reality star was planning on leaving her husband and filing for divorce.

Selling Sunset's Christine Quinn, 35, has been meeting with lawyers to set in motion a temporary restraining order against her husband Christian Richard, according to TMZ; seen December 2022 in France

Quinn currently has a week-long emergency protective order against her husband, but she will need to petition the courts for another restraining order once it runs out.

Sources told TMZ that she is in the process of meeting with attorneys to plan out her next steps.

The Selling Sunset star is reportedly planning to detail her entire history in order to secure a restraining order, and the sources describe their marriage as being a series of ups and downs.

She's reportedly ready to make additional serious allegations against her estranged husband relating to their interactions out of the spotlight, and the lawyers are reportedly helping her to navigate those issues.

Although sources previously told Us Weekly on Thursday that Quinn plans to file for divorce from Richard, her first priority is making sure that he can't come near her or baby Christian.

Ultimately, the sources allege that she wants a permanent restraining order against Richard, though she will likely have to start with a temporary restraining order.

The insiders add that Quinn's relationship with Richard feels irreversibly damaged now, so a reconciliation between the spouses is unlikely.

Her emergency restraining order against her estranged husband only lasts for seven days, so she will need to have filed for a temporary restraining order by Wednesday in order to keep a legal barrier protecting herself and her child.

Quinn's terrifying saga spilled into the spotlight on Tuesday, when Richard was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, with his bond set at $30,000.

LAPD spokesman Jeff Lee told DailyMail.com: 'A victim and a suspect were involved in a domestic dispute when the suspect threw a bag at the victim with a glass bottle inside of it. It missed the victim, but that object struck a child.

The reality star reportedly plans to file for divorce, but her first priority is protecting herself and her child. Sources said Quinn's marriage to Richard was tempestuous, and she allegedly plans to reveal more details of their interactions behind closed doors to secure a restraining order

'The suspect was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon.'

Christian was subsequently taken in an ambulance to a hospital for treatment with his mother by his side, according to TMZ.

Richard was seen in a bathrobe on Tuesday afternoon as he was led into a squad car by police after his arrest.

He subsequently made bail, but was shockingly arrested a second time on Wednesday after he violated the emergency restraining police had offered Quinn by visiting their home.

Although Quinn and her son were reportedly not at the home at the time, Police arrived with guns drawn and did a search of the home before taking Richard into custody.

An eyewitness on the scene alleged that police could be heard shouting for Richard to 'Come out with your hands up.'

LA County Sheriff's records indicate that Richard posted another $30,000 bond and was released hours after the second arrest.

A source told Page Six that Quinn and her son were staying at a separate 'safe' location, and that someone else had allegedly called the police on Richard.

Quinn and Richard were originally introduced via a mutual friend, and the tech founder proposed to her on Valentine's Day of 2019.

Quinn's son Christian was reportedly taken to a hospital in an ambulance, with her riding by his side; pictured in 2021 in Santa Monica

Quinn got engaged on Valentine's Day 2019, and she married Richard in December of that year in a gothic-tinged winter wonderlandstyle ceremony; still from Selling Sunset

The couple were wed in December of that year in a ceremony with a winter wonderland theme featuring an unusual gothic twist, including Quinn's black wedding dress.

They welcomed their son Christian in 2021.

The blond beauty is best known as a breakout star on Netflix's reality series Selling Sunset, in which she sold luxury homes for the Oppenheim Group for five seasons.

Her final season on the show featured allegations that she had tried to bribe a client.
Married at First Sight star Lucinda Light quickly became a fan favourite on the recent season of the popular reality show thanks to her 'authenticity' and 'positivity'.

The Byron Bay native, 43, boasts 182,000 Instagram followers, close to 100,000 more than the other contestants.

During Sunday night's commitment ceremony Lucinda and Timothy Smith, 51, called time on their relationship, but according to new reports the reality program won't be the last we will see of the bride.

According to Yahoo Lifestyle, major podcast networks are currently competing to sign her exclusively for her own show post-experiment, while several voiceover agencies are also interested in signing her as an audiobook narrator.

The publication notes that 'there is also talk of future TV work with the Nine Network - who have dubbed her as this year's 'breakout participant'.

Married at First Sight star Lucinda Light quickly became a fan favourite on the recent season of the popular reality show thanks to her 'authenticity' and 'positivity'. Pictured

'As well as offers for her to release a book in the 'personal development and spiritual journey' space and an increased demand in booking her as an emcee and motivational speaker at events,' the publication wrote.

An insider revealed the reason behind the bride's widespread appeal and high demand.

'Lucinda's kind-heartedness and positive energy have resonated with viewers all around the world who see her as a breath of fresh air, compared to the clone of young, wannabe influencers we see every year becoming embroiled in drama,' the insider told Yahoo Lifestyle.

'She could make millions in the next couple of years with so much demand already,' they added.

During Sunday night's commitment ceremony Lucinda and Timothy Smith, 51, called time on their relationship. Both pictured

According to Yahoo Lifestyle , major podcast networks are currently competing to sign her exclusively for her own show post-experiment, while several voiceover agencies are also interested in signing her as an audiobook narrator

It comes after Lucinda recently shut down rumours that she had been offered an exciting new career path on Married At First Sight.

On Friday, rumours emerged that the 43-year-old wedding celebrant was tipped to join New Zealand's version of the reality dating show as a relationship expert.

However, the fan favourite told Triple M WAs Robbie Von that she won't be taking on the gig for one main reason.

'I'm not in one (relationship) successfully, so I just don't feel like I belong on an expert couch there personally... I think even if the job was offered it would probably be a no from me,' she said.
Bec Judd has carved out a hugely successful career as a social media star, nabbing a whole string of lucrative paid partnerships.

The wife of AFL star Chris Judd, 41, has collaborated with an array of top brands as well as launching her very own activewear line during her rise to fame.

Bec, who has racked up more than 750,000 Instagram followers, is said to be paid around $5,500 per sponsored post, according to the Herald Sun.

Her paid partnerships see her plug a whole string of products, brands and holiday destinations as she has soared to success as a popular social media influencer.

Bec is impressively an ambassador for six top companies - The Skincare Company, Melbourne City Land Rover, Mermade, Chadstone and Gem teeth whitening.

Bec Judd has carved out a hugely successful career as a social media star nabbing a whole string of lucrative paid partnerships

She is well-known for her taste in luxury designer goods and memorably promoted designer candles worth a whopping $2,450 back in December.

Bec shared a video to her Instagram account showing herself carrying boxes Diptyque products in a paid promotion.

In the footage, filmed at her home in Melbourne, she promoted thousands of dollars worth of scented wax, including a $729 Advent calendar, a $340 set of 12 mini-candles and three taper candles valued at $154 each.

Her huge haul also included a $96 room spray, $223 carousel set, $240 mimosa scented set and a single candle priced at a whopping $360.

'Welcome to my Christmas. My fave Diptyque scents are my go-to for gifting, decorating and entertaining. Shop the range at Mecca Beauty,' she wrote alongside the post.

The wife of AFL star Chris Judd, 41, has collaborated with an array of top brands, including promoting luxury candle brand Diptyque in a string of Instagram posts

As well as promoting huge brands, Bec often jets off on luxurious sponsored trips, giving insights into her enviable getaways on her social media.

Last month, she shared a snap of herself sitting in her luxury pod on her Air Canada flight as flew to Vancouver, and then onwards to New York, in a sponsored trip.

Rebecca joked that it was 'good' to be flying without her kids Oscar, 12, Billie, nine, and twin sons Tom and Darcy, six, as she headed on her child-free travels.

Smiling for a selfie, she wrote: 'I feel so lucky to be embarking on this journey with @aircanada. I am flying to Vancouver for a short stopover and on to New York.

'No need to recheck bags. Unfortunately for me, there's no time to scoot up the mountain for a Whistler ski but definitely next time. Oh and how good is flying sans kids #ad.'

She later gave a further insight into her trip to the Big Apple, sponsored by Luxury Escapes, as she shared an array of glamorous snaps.

She is well-known for her taste in luxury designer goods and memorably promoted Diptyque's designer candles worth a whopping $2,450 back in December

Bec looked incredible in a shimmering red-orange backless gown with a hood as she soaked up the atmosphere of the Hyatt Grand Central New York.

She was also shown enjoying a luxurious buffet, and later a few Cosmopolitan cocktails with her pals in a high-end bar.

In September, she shared a gallery of bikini snaps and videos from her very luxurious stay at Dubai's famous Atlantis The Royal beach resort in an advertised post.

She had jetted there with her husband Chris for his birthday, and wrote in one post at the time: 'Cloud 22 Dubai you are BREATHTAKING!

'The epicentre and heart of @atlantistheroyal, Cloud 22 is a sky pool which serves delicious food and drinks, perfectly mixed tunes and sweeping views over The Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai skyline and the Arabian Sea. #ad #Atlantistheroyal.'

Bec is impressively an ambassador for six top companies, including Chadstone, and she frequently supports the fashion capital by attending their glitzy events

Her lucrative deals have proven to have paid off as she was thrilled to see herself appear on a billboard in Times Square, New York, last month in an advert for Mermade Hair

Her lucrative deals have proven to have paid off as she was thrilled to see herself appear on a billboard in Times Square, New York, last month.

While visiting the city, she came across a huge billboard featuring her advert for Mermade Hair in the iconic location in a milestone achievement.

'Super proud to be part of the launch of Mermade hair into Nordstrom! she captioned the post.

'PS - I couldn't have lived without my blowdry brush while I was away,' she added.

As well as partnerships with other brands, Bec has also soared to success heading up her very own activewear brand, Jaggad.

As well as promoting huge brands, Bec often jets off on luxurious sponsored trips, giving insights into her enviable getaways on her social media

In September, she shared a gallery of snaps and videos from her very luxurious stay at Dubai's famous Atlantis The Royal beach resort in an advertised post

She often models clothing from her popular range on her Instagram page, proving herself to be her own best advertisement.

Jaggad, helmed by Bec and Michelle Green, was established in 2013 with their husbands Chris Judd and Steven Green and has since become one of Australia's trendiest athleisure brands.

Last May, Bec told the Herald Sun that she 'loves' seeing the success of her label after years of hard work.

'It is a real Melbourne local brand and I love seeing people everywhere in Melbourne wearing it,' she said.

'It's not easy but 10 years in it is good, it is really good.'

As well as partnerships with other brands, Bec has also soared to success heading up her very own activewear brand, Jaggad

'The brand essence of Jaggad is the unstoppable woman and to be unstoppable we need to embrace imperfection,' she added.

In addition to being a social media influencer, the multi-talented WAG has worked as a television presenter and successful radio personality.

She also published a book about motherhood titled The Baby Bible as she has proved her many talents throughout her career.
Two beloved Home and Away characters are set to make a shock return to Summer Bay.

Matt Little, 31, who portrayed VJ Patterson from 2014 to 2017, will return for a cameo appearance.

Little will reprise his role as the son of longtime character Leah Patterson-Baker, played by Ada Nicodemou.

Ada's character is set to wed fiancee Justin Morgan, portrayed by James Stewart, with Little returning for the joyous event.

His character was last seen on screens in 2017 when he fled to Cyprus with baby Luc, the daughter of his late wife Billie.

Two beloved Home and Away characters are set to make a shock return to Summer Bay

The 31-year-old spoke to PerthNow about the 'emotional' experience he had returning to the show: 'It was amazing (reuniting with) long time friends and it was really quite emotional to get to work with people that I havent worked with in a long time and I was close to'.

'I just think its pretty lucky that was my job and I got to go to the most beautiful spots in the world,' he added.

'Every time Im up in the Northern beaches or something like that, I think about it,' he said of reliving Palm Beach sunrises.

Penny McNamee, 41, will also be returning to the Bay for a cameo as beloved character Tori Morgan, Justins sister.

Matt Little, who portrayed VJ Patterson from 2014 to 2017, will return for a cameo appearance

The last time viewers caught a glimpse of Tori, she was embarking on a new chapter in London with her newlywed husband Christian and her daughter Grace in 2021.

Home and Away shared a sneak peak of the wedding on Monday.

VJ could be seen walking a smiling Leah down the aisle towards Justin. While Tori was shown smiling at the ceremony.

Fans will have to wait until April to see the beloved characters back on screen.
Ariana DeBose is teaming up with another recent Oscar winner - Ke Huy Quan - for the new action film With Love.

Quan, 52, who was asked to join The Academy after his big Oscar win, will team up with the 33-year-old DeBose in the project.

The project was first announced back in early January - the first leading role Quan will take after winning an Oscar for Everything Everywhere All At Once.

Now Deadline reports that DeBose - an Oscar winner herself for West Side Story - will join Quan in the Universal Picutres film.

The studio has also set a February 7, 2025 release date, which falls between Warner Bros.' Mickey 17 with Robert Pattinson and Sony's The Smurfs Musical.

Ariana DeBose is teaming up with another recent Oscar winner - Ke Huy Quan - for the new action film With Love

Quan, 52, who was asked to join The Academy after his big Oscar win, will team up with the 33-year-old DeBose in the project

No plot details were given for the project, though it will be written by Josh Stoddard (Warrior), Luke Passmore (Archenemy) and Matthew Murray (Sheltered).

Taking the helm will be first-time director Jonathan Eusebio, who has served as the fight coordinator on all the John Wick films and The Fall Guy, in theaters May 3.

Eusebio also served as a stunt coordinator on Violent Night, Obi-Wan Kenobi, The Matrix Resurrections, Birds of Prey, Deadpool 2 and Black Panther, to name a few.

87North founders David Leitch (The Fall Guy) and Kelly McCormack (Bullet Train) will produce the film.

No production start date has been revealed, but given the release date and the new casting, it should likely start sooner than later.

Quan started his career as a child star with his first two roles in iconic movies - Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and The Goonies.

He went on to play Jasper Kwong in the TV series Head of the Class, though he would only work sporadically in the 1990s and 2000s after that.

The actor returned for his first role in 20 years in Finding Ohana before his Oscar-winning role as Waymond Wang in Best Picture winner Everything Everywhere All At Once.

Quan started his career as a child star with his first two roles in iconic movies - Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and The Goonies

He went on to play Jasper Kwong in the TV series Head of the Class, though he would only work sporadically in the 1990s and 2000s after that

The actor returned for his first role in 20 years in Finding Ohana before his Oscar-winning role as Waymond Wang in Best Picture winner Everything Everywhere All At Once

DeBose is coming off Schmigadoon, I.S.S. and Wish in 2023, and she can currently be seen in theaters in the spy thriller Argylle

She'll next be seen as the comic book character Calypso in Sony's Kraven the Hunter alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnson, in theaters August 30

He has since gone on to star in Marvel's Loki and Disney Plus' American Born Chinese, while voicing Han in Kung Fu Panda 4, currently in theaters.

Quan is also attached to star in The Russo Brothers' film The Electric State alongside Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt and Stanely Tucci.

DeBose is coming off Schmigadoon, I.S.S. and Wish in 2023, and she can currently be seen in theaters in the spy thriller Argylle.

She'll next be seen as the comic book character Calypso in Sony's Kraven the Hunter alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnson, in theaters August 30.
For Midland ISD parent, Zandra Flores, the altercation involving her daughter and another student came as no surprise. Maskot/Getty Images/Maskot

For Zandra Flores, the altercation involving her daughter and another student came as no surprise. Rather, it was a build-up of tension dating back to November of last year.

I have tried to contact the assistant principal, Flores told the Reporter-Telegram during a phone interview on Wednesday morning. I even tried to reach the principal as well.

But each time, Flores tried to reach out regarding the safety and well-being of her daughter, there was no response from MISD administrators.

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I even let them know the names of students that picked on her, she explained.

As a mother, Flores said that she instructed her daughter to walk away from the situation; because she wanted to protect her child. In a social media video that shows the altercation between the two students at Legacy Freshman High School on March 22, two girls can be seen arguing before one of them stabs Flores' daughter in the head with a pencil. The girls then proceed to fight with the girl retaining the pencil and repeatedly stabbing at Flores' daughter.

Warning, the video may be too graphic for some viewers:

A video circulating on social media shows a fight breaking out after a student stabs another student with a pencil in her scalp. Midland Reporter-Telegram

Flores remembers that day all too well.

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She called me before it happened and then after the attack, Flores said.

She said 'Mom  they came up to me  I was at the table and these girls were ready  they had their hair pulled up and they had no backpacks,' Flores said.

After the attack, Flores said she immediately went to the school before school officials notified her of the situation.

These girls were ready to attack my daughter, Flores said. You can even see in the video where she (student) puts her phone in her pocket before she attacks.

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Flores said the bullying incidents have even affected her daughters grades.

I have had to keep her home multiple times, she said.

As far as why her daughter is being singled out by other students, Flores said its because her daughter stands up for other students who are being bullied.

She tells them to stop being mean to other students, she said. She doesnt have a large circle of friends, rather its a close-knit circle of people  and thats why she was singled out.

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Flores also said the entire process that she has undergone with MISD remains an open wound. She said that since the attack, other parents have reached out with similar stories.

I just want the MISD policy to change, she said. When a child is in a fight and has to defend themselves, then protect that child. They (school officials) say they provide a safe environment, well then do that.

In a press release published in an earlier story, Midland ISD said it would not tolerate aggressive behaviors and any students involved in altercations will face disciplinary and possibly criminal consequences. Following the altercation when Flores' daughter was stabbed with the pencil, MISD announced it was criminally charging the students involved in the altercation.

Facebook comments after the story relating to the altercation was published showed sympathy and support for Flores and her daughter.

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We saw the video, Christina Cockrell wrote. The girl getting stabbed in the head with a pencil needs support and not be included in punishment for defending herself WTF is wrong with you MISD.

Dustin Johnson also wrote a reply to one of the public comments showing support for Flores and her daughter.

Its extremely ridiculous to punish the victim in this; MISD is becoming a joke with some of the policies like this, he wrote.

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January 2021: The beginning of the end

Gruffudd filed for divorce in March 2021, shortly after Evans claimed on social media that her husband of 14 years was walking out on her and their two daughters.

October 2021: Ioan goes public with his new love

After Evans' explosive announcement about her split all seemed to quieten down until October 2021 when she took to Twitter to claim to her 29,000 followers that her estranged husband had been cheating on her for three years with a much younger woman.

Evans implied that her ex had gaslighted her for years, betraying her and their two daughters (but did not offer any evidence to support her accusation).

February 2022: Ioan files for a restraining order against Alice

After months of pointed tweets and social media posts made by Evans, Gruffudd responded by filing for a restraining order, submitting 113 pages of unhinged texts and emails that had not previously been made public.

In his court filing, Gruffudd claimed he told Evans that he wanted out of the marriage in August 2020 and that since then, she had harassed him with hundreds of unanswered text messages, abusive emails and social media posts - many of which he included in the filing.

He claimed she verbally threatened to tell the media he had abused her 'do what Amber Heard did to Johnny Depp'.

Inside the most bitter divorce in Hollywood: A look back at Alice Evans and Ioan Gruffudd's shock slanging match (pictured in 2004)

June 2022: Alice begs fans for money to pay for a divorce lawyer

As their divorce proceedings entered its 15th month, Evans claimed to be 'completely out of money for food and bills.'

She claimed she would receive no financial support from Gruffudd and that she was struggling to pay her legal fees and would be unable to 'feed or clothe' their daughters with her dwindling funds.

July 2022: Ioan asks for joint custody of daughters

After Evans filed for sole custody of their daughters, Gruffudd filed for custody and visitation rights to see his children, claiming in the filing that Evans had been purposely trying to cut communication between himself and the children.

He also petitioned that the girls attend in-person therapy and reunification therapy via zoom with him pending court-ordered mediation about custody.

In the filing, Gruffudd reiterated allegations that Evans had been verbally abusing during their 14-year marriage, and 'undermin[ing him] in front of the girls throughout their lives.'

August 2022: Ioan gets a three-year restraining order against Alice

Having previously been awarded a temporary restraining order against his estranged wife, Gruffudd successfully obtained a three-year restraining order against Evans in August 2022.

Harsher restrictions were put in place by a US judge, including a ruling preventing Alice from leaking private text messages from their children.

In the court documents, Gruffudd claimed Evans continued to cause him issues and wanted additional provisions added to the existing restraining order.

He also requested Evans not post his text messages or any other communications to the parties children, or the childrens text messages or any other communications to Ioan, on any social media account.

Gruffudd also asked for the judge to order Evans not to contact his employer or make disparaging statements about him to his employers.

October 2021: Ioan went public with his new love Bianca Wallace, posting a picture with the Australian actress who is 21 years younger than Alice

September 2022: Ioan and Alice's child custody battle hits a wall

Two months after Gruffudd filed for joint custody of his two daughters and asked for custody and visitation rights, the exes failed to settle their differences in family court, despite the help of a mediator.

Court documents showed the exes meeting was set for 31 August and that mediation had taken place but that 'no agreement' had been reached.

The document went on to confirm that that both Gruffudd and Evans had completed the mandatory Our Children First program.

The Superior Court of Los Angeles states of the program that: 'Parents are required by law to attend a mediation orientation/parent education program and a mediation session prior to appearing at an Order to Show Cause or Trial regarding the custody and/or visitation of their children.'

November 2022: Alice is reported to police over claims of 'child abuse' and drug use

Amid her ongoing custody battle, Evans claimed that someone called social services and the police on her with concerns over child abuse and drug and drink use.

The actress took to Twitter to allege that someone had sent authorities to her property who then found 'absolutely no signs of abuse' and 'no drugs or drink'.

July 2022: Ioan asked for joint custody of their daughters Ella, 13 and Elsie, nine, claiming Alice had been trying to cut communication between himself and the children (pictured in 2018

February 2023: Child custody agreement is stalled again after Alice is charged with 'violating restraining order'

Evans appeared in court in February 2023 to answer two charges of violating a restraining order that was put in place by her estranged husband.

The warring former couple were scheduled to appear later that month at a custody hearing but Evans asked for a postponement.

Her attorney, Marie LaMolinara, argued that testimony Alice gives at the custody hearing could be used against her in her later criminal trial, which would violate her right, under the 5th Amendment, not to incriminate herself.

March 2023: Charges against Alice are dropped

Prosecutors in Los Angeles dropped charges against Evans who had been accused of defying a restraining order the Welsh actor has against her.

Evans had pleaded not guilty to two counts of violating the order and at a hearing at LA's Airport Courthouse, Commissioner James Cooper dismissed the charges after prosecutors told the court they were 'unable to proceed.'

At a follow-up hearing, Evans' attorney, public defender, Daniel Stefanic, filed a motion asking for a ruling that would declare her 'factually innocent' of the charges.

August 2022: Ioan successfully obtained a three-year restraining order against Alice that banned her from mentioning him or his girlfriend on social media (Ioan and Bianca pictured May 2022)

May 2023: Alice moves out of $2million family home as ex Ioan is 'too poor' to pay for it

Evans and her children moved out of her family home and into a rented abode with their two daughters after Gruffudd pleaded with a court to allow the home to be sold, saying he didn't have the money to keep up with mortgage payments for his family following their split in 2021.

The Fantastic Four star told a court in a document filed last year that neither he nor Evans could afford the $6,750 a month in mortgage payments, insurance and property tax.

He said he'd had just one paid job in the past year and was so poor he was relying on handouts from his young girlfriend.

May 2023: Ella, 13, applies for a restraining order against dad Ioan and his girlfriend Bianca

The teenage daughter of Evans and Gruffudd asked for a restraining order against her famous father and his girlfriend in documents filed on May 31 at the Los Angeles Superior Court.

In the documents, Ella stated that she is 'afraid' of her father and accuses him of 'threatening to call the police on her anytime she misbehaves' during their visitations.

Ella filed for a domestic violence restraining order against her father following what she said was an ugly incident at their home, during which she claims Bianca 'slammed a door on her head'.

In her filing against her father, Ella requested that he be made to keep at least 100 yards away from her and not contact her for five years and asks that Gruffudd be ordered to undergo a '52-week batterer intervention program'.

The program, which involves weekly classes, is intended - the document states - to 'stop abuse, teach accountability, abuse effects, and gender roles'.

Ella requested that the restraining order also cover her nine-year-old sister Elsie, noting that she 'lives with her sister and is afraid that [Ioan] will abuse and/or continue to allow abuse to happen to my sister too'.

She also asked that her father be made to pay 'for some or all of her lawyer's fees and costs' and requests that her phone account and that of her sister Elsie's be transferred to their mother, alleging that Gruffudd has 'threatened to cancel my sister's phone account and my phone account'.

Along with her domestic restraining order filing, Ella included a declaration as evidence to support her case, in which she shared her recollection of a bitter spat that she claims took place while she and her nine-year-old sister Elsie were visiting their father's home on May 26.

Ella admitted that she was 'so mad' at her father to find that Wallace was at his apartment when she arrived that she began throwing food on his bed, on the floor, and on him, before she attempted to flee the apartment - which, she says, is when the actress 'slammed a door on her head', leaving her with 'a small bump' and a 'bruise on her arm'.

May 2023: The teenage daughter of Alice and Ioan asked for a restraining order against her famous father and his girlfriend in documents filed on May 31 (Alice and Ella pictured)

June 2023: Ioan accuses Alice of abusing him via fake Twitter accounts

In court documents seen by MailOnline, Gruffudd claimed his estranged wife screamed at him outside his Los Angeles home and called him a 'f***ing abuser' and 'abusive c***' in front of their 13-year-old daughter.

Gruffudd also claimed Evans repeatedly broken a three-year restraining order he took out against her which has resulted in criminal charges - and flashed him while wearing no underwear when their children were being dropped off.

The bombshell papers also contained claims from Gruffudd that: Evans has made 'thousands of false, threatening and harassing posts' about him; Evans claims to be home-schooling Ella, but has 'provided no information'; Evans has interfered with the girls' therapy and they are missing appointments; and Ella poured rolled oats from a bag over his head, which left him 'in shock'.

July 2023: Ioan and Alice are declared legally divorced

In a court order handed down in LA Superior Court, Judge Josh Freeman Stinn finally granted Gruffudd's request for divorce amid the couple's ongoing custody battle.

The Welsh actor had filed for bifurcation and termination of marital status in May which would allow him and Evans to be declared legally divorced even as they continue settlement negotiations in their split.

A minute order obtained by DailyMail.com show the judge approved the request on July 3, ruling: 'The Court finds irreconcilable differences have arisen in the marriage and grants judgment for the dissolution of marriage as to status only, effective today.'

July 2023: Ioan's daughter loses bid for domestic violence restraining order against him

Two months after Ella filed documents a judge at the Los Angeles Superior Court dismissed an application by Ella for a domestic violence restraining order.

Gruffudd was present in court, along with Ms Evans for the hearing, as well as the lawyer appointed as the minor's counsel last month.

The judge ruled: 'The minor's request for a domestic violence restraining order against the petitioner is hereby dismissed without prejudice.'

The decision came three weeks after the teenager's bid to get a civil protection order against Gruffudd's actress girlfriend Bianca Wallace, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, was also denied.

Ioan said: Friends of the Liar star said he was 'very relieved' at the outcome. They also claimed that the situation is a 'nightmare' but they are 'happy to see some progress'.

August 2023: Ioan accuses Alice of 'child abuse' and keeping their daughters from him

A Los Angeles judge attempted to shield Gruffudd and Evans from the fallout of their parents' ugly battles by banning the press from a custody hearing, keeping the proceedings secret.

But that didn't stop the warring former couple  who are both seeking custody of the girls  from taking vitriolic shots at each other in written court filings that are public and not sealed.

The Welsh star called his ex a 'child abuser'  while Evans claimed Gruffudd hadn't seen or called his children for almost three months, according to court documents obtained by DailyMail.com.

Ioan said: 'Alice has continued to inflict serious emotional harm on Ella and Elsie by her statements and by interfering in my relationship with them.

'Alice has verbally abused and undermined me in front of the girls throughout their lives.

'Since January 2021, Alice has also encouraged and instructed them not to see me or communicate with me and she has made thousands of threatening and abusive communications to me and about me.'

Alice said: 'I have read and disagree with the declaration of petitioner (Gruffudd) as to allegations that I am inflicting or causing our children ''serious emotional harm".

'No one has ever contacted me or reported me for such conduct. No professional, nor teacher, nor school administrator, nor counsel, nor therapist.

'Petitioner has not seen, complied with, nor called the children for 11 weeks. I don't understand how having no recent information, "petitioner believes" there is an urgency such that a child custody evaluation must be commenced.'
Candice Swanepoel turned heads as she celebrated Anitta's birthday at a party in Miami on Tuesday.

The model, 35, stepped out wearing a sheer blue dress that featured a leggy thigh-high slit and a keyhole neckline.

She layered a pair of matching high waisted bottoms underneath the beachy number.

Candice completed her outfit with chunky Dr Marten boots and wore a small crossbody handbag.

To top off her look, she styled her hair into effortless waves and added a slick of peachy lipgloss.

Candice Swanepoel, 35, turned heads as she celebrated Anitta's birthday at a party in Miami on Tuesday

The model stepped out wearing a sheer blue dress that featured a leggy thigh-high slit and a keyhole neckline.

Candice recently appeared in new promotional photos for Hailey Bieber's Rhode calendar in January.

The supermodel  who is cross-collaborating with the media personality - posed in a tiny black bikini with a see-through mesh cover-up on top.

The former Victoria's Secret Angel sizzled while standing on a beach with a view of the ocean behind her.

Introduced to fans as Miss October, Candice's photo shoot was complete with black animal ears and carved, lantern pineapples.

One sultry close-up shot showed her holding a tube of the skincare brand's new pineapple refresh cleanser.

She wore makeup light enough to show off freckles across her nose but was glammed up with soft peachy tones.

The caption to Rhode's 1.1 million followers read: 'rhode calendar girls: miss October, @candiceswanepoel.

'your cleanser for every day, every month, every season  pineapple refresh arrives tomorrow.'

Candice completed her outfit with chunky Dr Marten boots and wore a small crossbody handbag

To top off her look, she styled her hair into effortless waves

Candice recently appeared in new promotional photos for Hailey Bieber 's Rhode calendar in January

Candice and Hailey have announced their partnership, which blends their brands  the former's Tropic of C swimwear range and the latter's line of beauty products

It comes after Candice and Hailey announced their partnership, which blends their brands  the former's Tropic of C swimwear range and the latter's line of beauty products.

Taking to a beach in the Bahamas, the pair suited up in black and white bathing suits that flaunted their figures.

They added pops of colour with the addition of yellow diving tanks and goggles.

Candice founded Tropic of C in 2018 and has sometimes featured her model friends in its campaigns.
Rufus Sewell has admitted he initially regretted accepting the role of Prince Andrew in Scoop because it was out of his comfort zone.

The actor, 56, said he thought he could 'get behind' the part, but panicked when he was offered it and confessed he thought 'what have I done?'

Rufus opened up while appearing on Wednesday's episode of Good Morning Britain, where he detailed 'obsessively watching the Newsnight interview for hours'.

In the film which will be released on Netflix next month, Rufus stars opposite Gillian Anderson's Emily Maitlis, who hosted the now famous interview.

Speaking on his thoughts after getting the role, Rufus said: 'I felt I could get behind it then afterwards, when I got the part, I was like "gosh what I have done?" I'm not a natural mimic.'

Rufus Sewell has admitted he immediately regretted accepting the role of Prince Andrew in Scoop because it was out of his comfort zone

The actor, 56, said he thought he could 'get behind' the part, but panicked when he was offered it and confessed he thought 'what have I done?' (Rufus pictured as Prince Andrew)

'I obsessively watched the interview. I watched it at the time like everyone else, I was kind of transfixed for various reasons. Like most people I had my own judgements.

'But doing it is a different thing and trying to put yourself in the position of someone like that and working out what their reasoning and justification in their own head might be. Because that's what people do.

'And I spent hours and hours everyday trying to work out what he was thinking. You could only ever guess. When there was a hesitation or a stutter, or a particular movement of the head - what was behind it?

'So Gillian and I could play out our version of events.'

'I thought about what people might say, they might accuse me of trying to make him look bad, trying to make him look good. That's the danger of playing a real person.'

Rufus, who got engaged to his girlfriend Vivian Benitez in December, underwent a total image transformation to become Prince Andrew and he described the result as 'the perfect blend between myself and him.'

Rufus said: 'At one point there were eyelids on me and I look so much like him it was uncanny but then I couldn't move my eyes properly and when you watch the interview so much of it is in the eyes.'

'One of the reasons why I was so hesitant to take it was because I didn't want to be seen as jumping on some bandwagon.

Rufus, who got engaged to his girlfriend Vivian Benitez in December, underwent a total image transformation to become Prince Andrew and he described the result as 'the perfect blend between myself and him

Rufus said: 'At one point there were eyelids on me and I look so much like him it was uncanny but then I couldn't move my eyes properly and when you watch the interview so much of it is in the eyes'

The full trailer for the Netflix drama was unveiled on March 18, showing Rufus as he embodied the shamed Duke Of York as he met with the BBC journalist

'I just wanted to do a truthful representation of him and that includes good and bad. It's to show the light and dark and we all have both. He is a human like everyone else.'

The full trailer for the Netflix drama was unveiled on March 18, showing Rufus as he embodied the shamed Duke Of York as he met with the BBC journalist.

A standout moment in the trailer came from Billie Piper, who portrays Sam McAlister, the Newsnight producer who secured the 2019 interview.

Attempting to woo the prince into speaking with the BBC about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Sam probes: 'With respect, you know how people see you.'

As the late queen's third child looks on blankly, he muses: 'Spell it out', prompting Sam to blurt out 'Randy Andy'

After an excruciatingly awkward silence, the prince smirks: 'With respect?'

The trailer begins with Sam announcing: 'An hour of television can change everything', before cutting to a montage of Emily presenting the news and the headlines about Prince Andrew's friendship with Epstein.

A standout moment in the trailer came from Billie Piper, who portrays Sam McAlister, the Newsnight producer who secured the notorious 2019 interview as she tells the Prince he's known as 'Randy Andy'

With the BBC under pressure to secure an interview with the royal, Sam is seen working her charm on Prince Andrew's private secretary Amanda Thirsk, played by Keeley Hawes

While Amanda warns there is a 'red line' when it comes to securing the interview, the scene cuts to Emily huddled in the back of a car on her way to meet the royal

The trailer ends with the world's media latching onto the car crash interview and the prince visibly under pressure as the news cycle spirals out of his control

With the BBC under pressure to secure an interview with the royal, Sam is seen working her charm on Prince Andrew's private secretary Amanda Thirsk, played by Keeley Hawes.

While Amanda warns there is a 'red line' when it comes to securing the interview, the scene cuts to Emily huddled in the back of a car on her way to meet the royal as she quips: 'I've never been smuggled into a palace before.'

The BBC team then have their first meeting with the prince, and that awkward exchange between Sam and 'randy Andy' before she piles on the pressure by reasoning: 'You can't stay silent.'

Pressure is then on for Sam and Emily to ensure everything goes to plan, with Esme Wren, the editor of Newsnight (played by Romola Garai) warning: 'Make no mistake, if we don't get the tone right, the story won't be him. It'll be us.'

It then cuts to Emily sitting down with the prince in a set up she dubs 'like a Western' while the royal walks away admitting: 'I thought that all went very well.'

The trailer ends with the world's media latching onto the car crash interview and the prince visibly under pressure as the news cycle spirals out of his control.
She's currently starring alongside Sheridan Smith in West End show Opening Night, in which she plays a character called Nancy.

And this actress - who is aged 28, looked worlds apart from her role in harrowing a Netflix series, when she walked the red carpet at the event at London's Ham Yard Hotel on Tuesday night.

This superstar looked incredible going braless under an extreme plunging black dress as she posed for pictures.

Her make-up was expertly applied and she wore her mid-length brown hair in a sleep and straight style.

But can you guess who it is?

This West End actress looks worlds apart from her breakthrough role in a harrowing Netflix series as she put on a glamourous display on the Opening Night red carpet on Tuesday

She stars alongside the main star, Sheridan Smith, (who is third from right), in the show and plays a character called Nancy

The actress can be seen witih her arms around Sheridan during one scene from the critically-acclaimed show

That's right, it's Shira Haas, who played protagonist Esther 'Esty' Shapiro, in Netflix series Unorthodox.

Shira was critically acclaimed for role in the 2020 drama, which saw her nominated for a Golden Globe and a Primetime Emmy Award.

The series tells the story of a 19-year-old ultra-Orthodox Jewish woman who flees her arranged marriage and religious community to start a new life abroad in Berlin.

Shira's character famously shaves her head in the series as Satmar tradition dictates and she told Variety that the very real moment was all shot in one take.

She said: 'You see 20 seconds of this scene in the episode, but it took eight minutes nonstop, two cameras, one take, thats it.

'I just had the rollercoaster of emotions and, of course, it was also real.'

Reflecting on the role, Shira - who was born in Tel Aviv to a Jewish family told British Vogue that she didn't know about many of the practises in this community, including shaving your head after marriage.

Recalling having to be filmed having her hair shaved, Shira confessed she was shocked to learn it would be one of the first scenes she shot.

She said: 'That was the final scene on the first day of shooting. When Maria [Schrader, the director] told me it was going to happen right at the beginning, I was so shocked.

That's right, it's Shira Haas! The Israeli actress, 28, played Esty, a 19-year-old Jewish woman who runs away from her Ultra-Orthodox community in New York City to start a life in Berlin

Shira - who was born in Tel Aviv to a Jewish family - told Vogue that she didn't know about many of the practises in this community, including shaving your head after marriage - and she really shaved her head for the role, which happened in one take, on her first day of filming

Esther 'Esty' Shapiro, decides to flee the Hasidic Jewish community and her arranged marriage to Yanky [Amit Rahav]

'But, it was great because it really got me into character. Of course, your head can only be shaved once so I knew it would be one take and I had to get it right.

'I was nervous, but I was willing to do it in order to tell this story.'

The reason why Ultra-Orthodox Jewish women shave their heads has been disputed, with Rabbi Avram Mlotek telling Refinery29 that some religious interpretations determine 'woman's hair to be nakedness and part of the alluring nature of the effeminate.'

Other websites about Jewish tradition and culture state that the only person who should see a married woman's hair is her husband.

Shira spent months researching the Ultra-Orthodox community, explaining to Vogue, 'every Jewish community is different and you really cant generalise.'

The actress revealed she travelled to Berlin two months before filming began in order to learn Yiddish, which she revealed is 'very different' to her native Hebrew.

Shira also had to take piano and singing lessons in preparation for the role, and several consultations with the show's religious consultant, revealing that the cast rehearsed for two full days before filming the wedding scene to ensure it looked authentic.

The star had a tough time growing up. She has spoken openly about her childhood battle with kidney cancer, which she was diagnosed with aged two.

She recovered two years later after a series of treatments.

'Its definitely part of me.' she said. 'I mean, I dont remember my life before it. Its not like it happened to me when I was older or more mature, so I could think of the before and after.

'It was really kind of like my starting point in life, so its hard to say what would have happened if not, lucky for us, we dont need to.'

Shira has gone onto enjoy huge success as an actress since becoming a household name.

She starred as Iris Maplewood in Bodies, a Netflix series about four detectives in four different time periods of London who find themselves investigating the same murder.

And she is playing Sabra, an Israeli superheroine in Captain America: Brave New World, which will be released in 2025.

Opening Night runs from March 6 to July 27.
Billie Piper ensured all eyes were on her on Wednesday, as she stepped out in a trendy double denim outfit to promote her new film Scoop in London.

The actress, 41, put on a leggy display in a dark pencil skirt with a daring zip that reached all the way down to the hem.

She teamed it with a fashion forward matching jacket, while boosting her height in a pair of black pointed high heels.

Billie added extra glamour to her stylish look with a patent leather clutch and simple gold hoop earrings.

She slicked her fiery auburn hair up into a sophisticated bun and hid her eyes behind a pair of oversized futuristic sunglasses.

Billie Piper ensured all eyes were on her on Wednesday, as she stepped out in a trendy double denim outfit to promote her new film Scoop in London

The actress, 41, put on a leggy display in a dark pencil skirt with a daring zip that reached all the way down to the hem, teamed with a fashion forward matching jacket

Billie added extra glamour to her stylish look with a patent leather clutch and gold earrings, while slicking her fiery auburn hair up into a bun and hiding behind oversized sunglasses

The I Hate Suzie star has been busy promoting Netflix movie, Scoop, which dramatises the notorious 2019 interview between Prince Andrew and Emily Maitlis.

Billie played the role of Newsnight producer Sam McAlister opposite Rufus Sewell as the disgraced prince and Gillian Anderson as journalist Emily.

The full trailer for the drama was unveiled on Monday with a standout moment coming from Billie, as she attempts to woo the prince into speaking with the BBC about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Sam probes: 'With respect, you know how people see you,' as Prince Andrew looks on blankly and says: 'Spell it out', prompting Sam to blurt out 'Randy Andy'

In the infamous interview, Emily discussed Virginia Giuffre's claims that she was forced to have sex with Andrew three times when she was 17 under the orders of Epstein.

The prince strongly denied the accusations throughout the interview, making a series of claims - including insisting he couldn't have been with Virginia at the time of the alleged encounter because he was dining at a Pizza Express in Woking and that a medical condition left him unable to sweat.

The discussion has since gained notoriety and is widely acknowledged to have embarrassed the royals.

The interview was described as a 'car crash' and on November 20, 2019, a statement from Buckingham Palace said Prince Andrew was suspended from public duties 'for the foreseeable future'.

The I Hate Suzie star has been busy promoting Netflix movie, Scoop, which dramatises the notorious 2019 interview between Prince Andrew and Emily Maitlis

Billie played the role of Newsnight producer Sam McAlister (pictured) opposite Rufus Sewell as the disgraced prince and Gillian Anderson as journalist Emily

In May 2020, it was announced that the prince was permanently stepping down from his public roles.

In January 2022, Virginia was given the go-ahead to sue Andrew for unspecified damages in a New York civil court.

Despite vowing to fight the claims and repeatedly protesting his innocence, the prince agreed to pay a huge sum to settle the case before it ever reached a jury. interview, then the film.

Netflix describes the production as portraying: 'The inside track of the women that broke through the Buckingham Palace establishment to secure the scoop of the decade that led to the catastrophic fall from grace of The Queen's 'Favourite son'.

'From navigating Palace vetoes, to breaking through to Prince Andrew's inner circle, the high stakes negotiations and intensity of rehearsal - to the jaw dropping interview itself.

'SCOOP is the insider account of the inner workings of the Palace and the BBC, twin bastions of the British Establishment, spotlighting the journalists whose tenacity and guts broke through the highest of ceilings - and into the inner sanctum and calculations of a man with everything to lose.'

It comes after Billie revealed what her children think of her showbusiness career - and their responses have been mixed.

The actress is mother to sons Winston, 12, and Eugene, eight, with her ex-husband Laurence Fox and daughter Tallulah, four, with former partner Johnny Lloyd.

It comes after Billie revealed what her children - Winston, 12, Eugene, eight, and Tallulah, four - think of her showbusiness career and their responses are mixed

She also admitted often takes things from sets over the years, including the main central console from the TARDIS while in Doctor Who (pictured on show with David Tennant)

Among her haul are some racy items from her time on the hit ITV2 drama The Secret Diary Of A Call Girl (pictured) as she said: 'I have a whip and some underwear'

Appeared on last week's episode of The Jonathan Ross Show, the comedian asked what her kids think of her fame.

She replied: 'My elder one couldn't give a sh*t, which I actually like, I think that's a healthier response. I think I've got a fan in my youngest child, she will watch my music videos and ask to play my songs in the car and I'll oblige.'

Billie got her start in the entertainment industry as a singer, signing her first record deal at the age of 14.

She became the youngest artist to debut at number one in the UK Singles Chart with Because We Want To and had another number one with her follow up Girlfriend.

She said: 'I was 14 when I signed my record deal, the same age as my eldest son which blows my mind but he isn't that interested which I think is fine.'

Billie added: 'They have no interest in me being in Doctor Who but they will come to a convention where there's access to real famous people, genuine stars if there is access to Stranger Things, Marvel or Lord of the Rings.'

When asked if she'd ever taken anything from set over the years, she admitted: 'I take things from set, I see things, I take them.'

Billie elaborated: 'Loads of things, rings, costume jewellery, I actually have a whip and some underwear from The Secret Diary of a Call Girl.'

She then confessed: 'I took loads of stuff from the TARDIS, the main central console.'
Max Bowden's new role has been revealed as his final scenes as Ben Mitchell in the BBC soap are set to air this week.

The actor, 29, who plays the mechanic son of Phil Mitchell, will leave Albert Square and return to his old stomping ground - the theatre.

Set to star in Birdsong in November, Max's character Ben will exit Walford after being faced with a six-year prison sentence.

Viewers were left stunned this week after police arrested Ben under an international warrant.

Despite insisting on his innocence and even having the confidence to tell an officer they would later apologise to him, Ben realised he had done something awful.

EastEnders star Max Bowden's new role has been revealed as his final scenes as Ben Mitchell are set to air on the BBC this week

The actor, 29, who plays the mechanic son of Phil Mitchell - he will leave Albert Square and his next role sees him performing in Birdsong at the theatre

He will be joining the 30th-anniversary tour of Birdsong, playing Jack Firebrace - Sebastian Faulks's epic story of love and loss- when it returns to the stage in 2024

When solicitor Ritchie turned up at the station, it became very apparent that his past antics in the US had finally caught up with him.

He was charged in connection to his trip to America last year, where he attempted to get dying Lola Pearce onto a drugs trial but was unsuccessful.

Ben's credit cards were blocked, but instead of going to the police, he stole someone else's and spent thousands on hotels, car rental and a business class flight home.

In desperation, he begged Ritchie to help him, but she told him he could face up to six years in an American prison.

She went to tell the Mitchell family what Ben had done with the news sinking in that Ben was guilty of a serious crime.

Spiralling into a row between Callum, Phil and Jay, Lexi was forced to control the situation before Jay asked her to leave with Honey.

'Jay, I'm a Mitchell,' she said before turning to Ritchie and telling her: 'We ain't paying you to be quiet.'

Max's character Ben will exit Walford after being faced with a six-year prison sentence

Viewers were left stunned this week after police arrested Ben under an international warrant. Despite insisting on his innocence and even having the confidence to tell an officer they would later apologise to him, Ben realised he had done something awful

The lawyer told them all: 'Credit card fraud in America. He's got a bail hearing tomorrow. The evidence is stacked pretty strongly against him.'

After the explosive episodes and ahead of his final EastEnders scene, Max took to Instagram to bid his goodbyes to the set and the crazy square.

He thanked his soap fans for accepting his version of Ben through an Instagram post on Tuesday.

Captioning his headshot, he wrote, 'It's been one hell of a ride! Thanks for taking Ben to your hearts and allowing my version into your lives.

'I had an amazing five years at @bbceastendersand learnt a hell of a lot about myself and the craft I love so dearly; it got me through some very hard personal times and I will be forever grateful!

'I really will never be able to thank everybody for the support enough, because the fans of the show are so passionate, caring, and invested and it enables us as actors to want to keep going and always be better; so I really do from the bottom of my heart appreciate every single person who has sent any sort of positivity my way over the last five years - I love you all.

'Ben Mitchell 6.0 . Over and out. Goodbye EE! I'll miss you all. X'

Viewers fled to his comment box to share their admiration of the role and to say their goodbyes.

After the explosive episodes and ahead of his final EastEnder scene, Max took to Instagram to bid his goodbyes to the set and the crazy square (pictured in September 2023)

After the explosive episodes and ahead of his final EastEnder scene, Max took to Instagram to bid his goodbyes to the set and the crazy square

Viewers fled to his comment box to share their admiration of the role and to say their goodbyes

One penned: 'This guy should have never left his role as Ben Mitchell. Best actor Eastenders has ever had !!!'

'Great job bro! Well done. You smashed it xxx see you on the outside!!!! X'

'The best Ben Mitchell there ever was!'

'Congratulations on a fantastic 5 years!! Xx'

'Best Ben Mitchell ever!!!! you icon brother'

'Sad you're going and you've been amazing. Huge good luck for your next adventure'

'You are to Ben Mitchell what David Tennant is to Dr Who. . . The best version.'

'Not the same without you. Thank you for portraying such a complex character. Ben Mitchell became such an iconic queer character because of you. Good luck to you.'

'You are the best of the best. An exciting new chapter for you is literally just about to unfold. You're simply brilliant!'

After leaving the set after five drama-filled years, Max will return to an old role.

He will be joining the 30th-anniversary tour of Birdsong, playing Jack Firebrace - Sebastian Faulks's epic story of love and loss- when it returns to the stage in 2024.

The critically acclaimed show, adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and directed by Alastair Whatley, tells the story of one man's journey through an all-consuming love affair and into the horror of the First World War.

Max said: 'I'm so excited to be collaborating with Original Theatre again on a project close to my heart. Birdsong highlights the tragedy of war, yet the beauty of humanity simultaneously through strong relationships under extreme circumstances, and I can't wait to bring Jack Firebrace to life under their guidance.'

'I'm so excited to be collaborating with Original Theatre again on a project close to my heart,' Max said.

'Birdsong highlights the tragedy of war, yet the beauty of humanity simultaneously through strong relationships under extreme circumstances, and I can't wait to bring Jack Firebrace to life under their guidance.'

Max previously starred in the 2016 tour of Birdsong, originally playing the role of Tipper.

Director Alastair Whatley said of Bowden re-joining the cast: 'Max joined us to play the character of Tipper, a young soldier, in the 2016 tour of Birdsong and now, the best part of a decade later, returns to play the wonderful role of Jack Firebrace.

'I cannot wait to get back in the rehearsal room with Max to explore one of Sebastian's most unforgettable characters.'

In pre-war France, an Englishman, Stephen Wraysford, takes on a dangerous affair with Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down.

As war breaks out over the idyll of his former life, Stephen must lead his men through the Battle of the Somme carnage.

Faced with the unprecedented horror of the war Stephen clings to the memory of Isabelle as his world explodes around him.

Birdsong will open at Salisbury Playhouse on 6 September before visiting Leeds, Cambridge, Richmond, Liverpool, Nottingham, Cheltenham, Guildford, Chichester, Norwich, Malvern, and Bath.
She never shies away from showing off her sense of style.

And Ashley Roberts looked edgy as she headed home from the Heart FM studios in London on Wednesday.

The presenter, 42, wore a leather-look corset, that zipped down the front and a matching pair of baggy trousers.

She layered a fitted long sleeve grey top underneath and boosted her height with some stiletto heels.

Ashley completed her outfit with a tiny white leather bag and pulled her hair back into an effortless updo.

Ashley Roberts, 42, looked edgy as she headed home from the Heart FM studios in London on Wednesday

The presenter wore a leather-look corset top, that zipped down the front and a matching pair of baggy trousers

Last month, Ashley made her first public appearance with her new boyfriend George Rollinson.

The radio DJ has reportedly been dating the artist, 25, since last November, MailOnline revealed.

George, who is 17 years Ashley's junior, is Ashley's first serious partner since her split from Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice in 2020.

A source told MailOnline in November: 'Ashley and George are smitten with each other.

'They have chosen to keep their relationship private for now but gradually have started sharing snippets from their life together on social media.

'George is extremely successful in his own right, creating artwork for massive names and establishing himself in his craft from a young age.

'Ashley isn't at all bothered about their age difference... they have similar interests, and he has inspired her creatively, she hasn't felt this way in a long time.'

Artist George has previously collaborated with boxer Francis Ngannou for his fight against Tyson Fury, decorating the Cameroonian's boots with his own designs and has created elaborate pieces for the likes of celebrity clients Drake and Anthony Joshua.

Ashley completed her outfit with a tiny white leather bag and pulled her hair back into an effortless updo

Last month, Ashley made her first public appearance with her new boyfriend George Rollinson (pictured)

Since starting dating, the couple have enjoyed a romantic holiday in Dubai soaking up the sunsets at beachfront hotel Caesars Palace and dining at the likes of luxury Italian restaurant Scalini.

Ashley's last public relationship was with Strictly professional Giovanni, 33, who is nine years her junior.

The couple were together for over a year before splitting in 2020.

They met when Ashley starred on the BBC series in 2018, competing with Pasha Kovalev in the competition and finishing as a finalist.

Giovanni, who was forced to quit Strictly this season after his celebrity dance partner Amanda Abbington left the show, dated Love Island star Maura Higgins following his romance with Ashley.
Former child star Zachery Ty Bryan has officially been charged with a felony stemming from his February 17th arrest for DUI and hit-and-run traffic collision.

La Quinta Police charged the troubled 42-year-old - whose 0.15 blood alcohol level was nearly twice the legal limit - with 'driving under the influence with three or more priors within the last decade,' according to TMZ.

Zachery - who posted a $50K bond - faces up to three years in prison for the alleged property damage he caused during his car accident, and he reportedly failed to stop to provide his name and address.

DailyMail.com previously published photos of Bryan - who started drinking when he was 14 - hitting up the bars at Applebee's and Amigos in La Quinta, CA on February 20 - just three days after his arrest.

The Colorado-born father-of-seven - whose next court date is April 23 - is currently in Puerto Rico with INK Games, which just hosted a 'Crypto Mondays San Juan' party at George's Music Lounge.

Former child star Zachery Ty Bryan (R, pictured Tuesday with Transform Ventures CEO Michael Terpin) has officially been charged with a felony stemming from his February 17th arrest for DUI and hit-and-run traffic collision

Last year, Zachery served seven days in Lane County Jail in Eugene, OR and was sentenced to 36 months of supervised probation for domestic violence against an unidentified woman on July 28.

In 2020, Bryan was sentenced to three years of bench probation and ordered to attend a batterer intervention program after being charged with domestic violence against his fiancee Johnnie Faye Cartwright at the same sherriff's office in Oregon.

Worryingly, The Guardians of Justice actor has three small children - daughter Kennedy, 2; and twins Parker + Sequoia, 10 months - from his three-year relationship with Cartwright.

'I'll always want what's best for the father of my children,' the 30-year-old model told Us Weekly on August 1.

'Trauma can bring struggles in many shapes and forms. It's a horrible situation thats going to be spun in so many ways. I've learned firsthand the truth will never align with what's been put out there. 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.'

Zachery also fathered four children - twin daughters Gemma + Taylor, 9; daughter Jordana, 7; and son Pierce, 5 - during his 12-year marriage to high school sweetheart Carly Matros, who filed for divorce in 2020.

And THR has published an expose last June accusing Bryan of earning $50K by running a fraudulent agriculture-technology start-up scheme.

Zachery first found fame playing Tim Allen's onscreen son Brad Taylor in all eight seasons of the ABC sitcom Home Improvement spanning 19911999.

La Quinta Police charged the troubled 42-year-old - whose 0.15 blood alcohol level was nearly twice the legal limit - with 'driving under the influence with three or more priors within the last decade' (pictured in 2016)

Zachery - who posted a $50K bond - faces up to three years in prison for the alleged property damage he caused during his car accident, and he reportedly failed to stop to provide his name and address (pictured in 2014)

DailyMail.com previously published photos of Bryan - who started drinking when he was 14 - hitting up the bars at Applebee's and Amigos in La Quinta, CA on February 20 - just three days after his arrest (pictured in 2013)

The Colorado-born father-of-seven (R) - whose next court date is April 23 - is currently in Puerto Rico with INK Games, which just hosted a 'Crypto Mondays San Juan' party at George's Music Lounge

On July 28, Zachery was charged with domestic violence against an unidentified woman in Eugene, OR three years after his prior domestic violence arrest (2020 mugshot pictured) against his fiancee Johnnie Faye Cartwright

Worryingly, Bryan has three small children - daughter Kennedy, 2; and twins Parker + Sequoia, 10 months (pictured on February 10) - from his three-year relationship with Cartwright

The 30-year-old model (R) told Us Weekly on August 1: 'I'll always want what's best for the father of my children. Trauma can bring struggles in many shapes and forms. It's a horrible situation thats going to be spun in so many ways. I've learned firsthand the truth will never align with what's been put out there. 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'

The Guardians of Justice actor also fathered four children - twin daughters Gemma + Taylor, 9; daughter Jordana, 7; and son Pierce, 5 - during his 12-year marriage to high school sweetheart Carly Matros (R, pictured in 2016), who filed for divorce in 2020
Alessandra Ambrosio's mini-me daughter Anja shared several new images to Instagram during their spring break in Kaua'i, Hawaii.

Mommy and her look-alike daughter were having a fun beach vacation as Anja is on break from school in Los Angeles.

Both were seen splashing around on the shore as they went for a swim.

Anja has already been working as a model for Burberry and Vogue, and looks to have a promising career in front of her.

Anja's father is photographer and designer Jamie Mazur, who is not seen often on social media.

Alessandra and Jamie split in 2018.

Anja - full name Anja Louise Ambrosio Mazur - is one of two children from the model and Mazur as Anja also has a 10-year-old brother named Noah Phoenix.

Alessandra Ambrosio 's mini-me daughter Anja shared several new images to Instagram during their spring break in Hawaii

Mommy and daughter were having a fun beach vacation as Anja is on break from school

Anja seen with her mother on a 2023 beach vacation

Alessandra was also seen modeling a rust-colored woven string bikini as she posed in the ocean.

She wore her wet hair down over her shoulders as she had on gold jewelry including a necklace with a large green stone.

The Brazilian bombshell said in her Instagram caption: 'On the beach in Hawaii .' She played Ziggy Marley's Beach In Hawaii.

Alessandra is known for posing in her own brand, GAL Floripa, which has been making swimwear for years.

In August Anja turned 15-years-old.

The cute teen shared several images to Instagram from her big birthday party.

The London Fog model enjoyed a pool party with her high school friends at her mother's Beverly Hills mansion.

The budding star was also seen hugging her Vogue cover girl mother in one image, proving how much they look alike.

Both were seen splashing around on the shore as they went for a swim

Anja has already been working as a model for Burberry and Vogue, and looks to have a promising career in front of her

Anja's father is photographer and designer Jamie Mazur, who is not seen often on social media. Alessandra and Jamie split in 2018

Anja - full name Anja Louise Ambrosio Mazur - is one of two children from the model and Mazur. Anja also has a 10-year-old brother named Noah Phoenix

'Thank u to everyone who came and made it such a special time,' wrote Anja in her caption on Instagram.

Her mom Ambrosio also wrote a post on her Instagram page where she gushed over her child.

'A very happy 15th birthday!!! May all your dreams come true and Im so proud of the woman you are becoming @anjaambrosiom - te amo infinitamente,' wrote her mom Alessandra on Instagram.

Anja responded by adding red heart emojis.

There was no sign of Alessandra's boyfriend Richard Lee at the pool party.

In August Anja turned 15-years-old. The cute teen shared several images to Instagram from her birthday party

The teen model enjoyed a pool party with her high school friends at her mother's Beverly Hills mansion

Anja is a teenager going to high school in Los Angeles, but lately she has fired up her Instagram page with images from her travels with mom.

This summer they have been on a fun beach vacation with friends like in Ibiza, Spain.

Anja and her mom Alessandra also posed together often, which highlights their similarities.

In July the ladies looked like carbon copies of each other as they had the same high cheekbones and almond eyes as well as light brown hair as they posed side by side for a selfie.

'A very happy 15th birthday!!! May all your dreams come true and Im so proud of the woman you are becoming @anjaambrosiom - te amo infinitamente,' wrote her mom Alessandra on Instagram

Anja is very active on Instagram, often sharing selfies and photos from family vacations.

The family lives in Los Angeles and Anja is attending high school in the Santa Monica/Brentwood neighborhood.

This comes after Alessandra showed off her incredible assets once again as she plugged her popular swimwear line GAL Floripa - which she launched with her sister and best friend in 2019.

The international lingerie model made the most of a tiny mint green bikini that put her abs and trim waistline on display.

Anja has already worked! It looks like she may follow in her mother's footsteps one day by becoming a top model as she often poses in high-end fashion - Anja has already appeared in a London Fog ad with her mom

Alessandra has had an enduring career.

Last year she told Harper's Bazaar that 'I didn't think modelling would last.'

But fame has not changed her much: 'In my personal life, I keep things simple. Im a Brazilian girl, even though I now live in LA, so swimsuits and simple beachwear is my style. I love fashion but I dont have to go crazy with buying items. Im happy with what makes me comfortable.'

And she named her top style icons: 'Brigitte Bardot, Grace Kelly, Marilyn Monroe, because they carried themselves with confidence and a sense of fun.

'They also embraced a timeless look.'

And the leggy lady shared some style advice.

(L-R) Tom Kaulitz, Heidi Klum, Alessandra and a pal attend the 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on March 10

'I think the best advice would be to remain authentic,' said the star who loves to wear athleisure.

'You can be playful and follow your instincts. You cant abandon yourself entirely; you have to stay true to who you are, even when youre wearing something that you wouldnt normally choose.'

And she said she wants her kids to dress how they like.

'I want them to feel happy and comfortable in their own skin, so I would gently guide them if I felt they were trying to be someone theyre not. But Im happy for them to take their own journey. Its the only way.'
TOKYO, Mar 27 (News On Japan) - The 12th episode of the TV anime "Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!" (30) aired on March 27th.

This series, abbreviated as "Cherry Magic," is based on the popular BL manga by Yuu Toyota, is a pure love comedy that begins when the protagonist, Kiyoshi Adachi, who remains a virgin until he turns 30, acquires the "magic to read the hearts of those he touches" and accidentally discovers that his handsome coworker, Yuichi Kurosawa, has feelings for him.

The manga was adapted into a live-action drama in 2020 and a highly successful live-action film in April 2022. In 2023, it even sparked the "Cherry Magic phenomenon" with a live-action drama adaptation in Thailand.

In the 11th episode broadcast last week, Kurosawa received a love letter from Adachi, and the sincere feelings written in it resonated in his heart, leading to the unfolding of the story.

Having consummated their relationship with Kurosawa, Adachi loses his magical powers and can no longer read minds. "I thought it would be okay without the magic if I'm with Kurosawa," Adachi says, bringing tears of joy to Kurosawa's eyes.

After returning from a business trip, Adachi formally accepts a transfer to Nagasaki, but the workload there is intense. Living apart, Adachi contemplates what he can do to continue being with Kurosawa.

Wikipedia: Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!

Source: MDPR
Kanye West and wife Bianca Censori took a drive to Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers drive-thru in Burbank, California for a late night snack on Tuesday evening.

Bianca, 29, was unusually shy for their fast food run, ducking her head down in the passenger seat as Kanye, 46, drove them.

It appeared as if Bianca was wearing an oversized furry coat, while Kanye wore a black jacket and sunglasses - despite it being late at night.

Kanye West and wife Bianca Censori took a drive to Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers drive-thru in Burbank, California for a late night snack on Tuesday evening

Bianca, 29, was unusually shy for their fast food run, ducking her head down in the passenger seat as Kanye, 46, drove them

It appeared as if Bianca was wearing an oversized furry coat, while Kanye wore a black jacket and sunglasses - despite it being late at night

Bianca has paraded around the world with Kanye in barely-there looks, including completely sheer tops flashing her bra-less cleavage to wearing a clear raincoat while nude underneath.

Kanye legally married Bianca in December 2022.

Their sighting comes hours after Kim Kardashian, Kanye's ex-wife, was back to her signature style - one day after she wore an outfit that appeared to channel Bianca's barely there style.

The 43-year-old entrepreneur stood in her 40,000 square foot office space - headquarters to her brands SKKN and SKIMS.

Kim posed in her own brand SKIMS - wearing black leggings with some pictures of her in a bralette and others in a fitted tee.

It is unclear if the images are recent - or sometime between May -December 2022 - when she had platinum blonde hair.

Kanye wore sunglasses in the middle of the night for the fast food run

One day prior, Kim appeared to channel Kanye's current wife, Bianca, in her outfit she posted.

Kim was wearing a fur coat with no top or bralette - paired with nylon tights.

Weeks prior, Kim and Bianca stood besides each other chatting during the rapper's listening party, marking the first time they have been pictured together.

Two of Kim and Kanye's four children were also pictured with her at Kanye's listening party with Kim and Bianca: Chicago, six, and Saint, eight.

They are also parents to North, 10, and Psalm, four.

Kim and Kanye were married for seven years, from 2014 until they separated in 2021 and finalized their divorce in 2022.

Bianca covered up in a more demure look for the listening party - most likely because Kim and Kanye's kids were in attendance.

The SKIMS founder reportedly warning Kanye to tell his new wife to 'cover up' while around their four children.

Their sighting comes hours after Kim Kardashian, Kanye's ex-wife, was back to her signature style - one day after she wore an outfit that appeared to channel Bianca's barely there style

One day prior, Kim appeared to channel Kanye's current wife, Bianca, in her outfit she posted

Bianca has paraded around the world with Kanye in barely-there looks, including completely sheer tops flashing her bra-less cleavage to wearing a clear raincoat while nude underneath

Bianca's signature style usually involves nylon tights with a cleavage or braless look

'Kim instructed Kanye to never let Bianca dress like that around the kids,' a source exclusively told DailyMail.com earlier this year.

'She is truly surprised that Kanye would let his wife leave the house like that,' the insider added.

Kim and Bianca were previously said to have an amicable relationship - and is just not a fan of her parading her risque fashion choices in front of her and Kanye's four kids - prior to her sighting with Bianca on Tuesday night.
Si King gave an update on the Hairy Bikers' future in a heartwarming new post on Wednesday - after Dave Myers' death.

The cook, 57, announced the iconic duo's Fortnum & Mason Food Personality of the Year Award nomination and asked fans to vote for them as he gave the update.

He also said that he would be keeping in touch with fans via social media on 'projects that will live on' after Dave's sad passing.

The TV chef, 66, passed away last month, two years after he revealed he was undergoing treatment for an unspecified type of cancer.

In his new post Si shared a sweet snap with Dave as they both beamed for the camera as he said it was 'really strange' not having Dave around anymore.

Si King gave an update on the Hairy Bikers' future in a heartwarming new post on Wednesday - after Dave Myers' death

Dave, 66, (seen) passed away last month, two years after he revealed he was undergoing treatment for an unspecified type of cancer

He then said in the caption: 'Dave and I were so chuffed to be nominated once again for the Fortnum & Mason Food Personality of the Year Award for the 4th year running.

'Dave was so proud of this award, particularly because it's voted for by our loyal followers and fans, the people who matter most to us.

'It's really strange for us all not to have Dave around but for now, we will keep posting on the Hairy Bikers socials to keep in touch with all those people who have been so kind over many years and particularly in recent weeks.

'We'll also keep you updated on the events and projects which will live on and I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at some of the Summer festivals this year. Si x Vote for us using the link on our stories.'

It comes after last week The Hairy Bikers team issued an 'urgent' warning to fans over scam fundraising pages impersonating Si and urging donations to cancer charities after the death of Dave.

Si has been left distraught by the death of his co-star, and now scammers are using his name and asking for donations for Dave's family.

A post on the Hairy Bikers official Facebook page read: 'Many of you have been emailing us pointing out that fake profiles are appearing on Facebook and Instagram, the latest one is of Si King.

'Our Team has been desperately trying to get Meta, the owners of Facebook and Instagram to remove these fake profiles for the past 2 weeks without success.

The cook, 57, announced the iconic duo's Fortnum & Mason Food Personality of the Year Award nomination and asked fans to vote for them as he gave the update

He said: 'It's really strange for us all not to have Dave around but for now, we will keep posting on the Hairy Bikers socials to keep in touch with all those people who have been so kind over many years and particularly in recent weeks'

It comes after last week T he Hairy Bikers team issued an 'urgent' warning to fans over scam fundraising pages impersonating Si and urging donations to cancer charities after the death of Dave

Si has been left distraught by the death of his co-star, and now scammers are using his name and asking for donations for Dave's family

'Below is a screenshot of a fake page. You will notice that it doesn't have a 'Blue Tick' next to the name 'Si King'. There are instances where a 'post' has a link to a Bitcoin scam asking for donations to a cancer charity in the name of Dave Myers. Rest assured, this is not genuine in any shape or form.

The post continued: 'How you can help us, firstly, if you have fallen for the fake profile and currently 1000 have, please unfollow this profile page as your information can be sold on. Secondly, please report the fake profile to Facebook.

'This is done by clicking on the 3 dots, at the top-right of the offending page. This will open a dropdown box and from there you will see an option to 'Find support or report' Then select ' Pretending to be something' then select 'Celebrity'. Please type in 'Hairy Bikers' and you will see our page name appear in the box. Then please 'Send'.

'To add to the confusion, the people behind the scam are copying posts that we are genuinely uploading to our own page. If you all join in and report the fake, Facebook may wake up when they see some 600,000 reports in their inbox. #MarkZuckerberg take note!

'We gratefully appreciate your help and kindness. Help us drop this. It's not in the name of the Hairy Bikers. Shocking Meta's lack of action.'

It came after Hairy Bikers' fans become emotional as they watched Dave's final ever episode with co-star Si, which aired last Tuesday.

The emotional final scenes saw Dave and Si wrap up their incredible journey and after the credits rolled, a tribute read: 'In loving memory of our friend, Dave Myers'.

The duo talked about how much the tour meant to them and told each other they love one another.

BBC viewers broke down in tears watching his heartbreaking final scenes, with one penning on social media platform X: 'This is a hard watch'

Another wrote: 'What a lovely man Dave Myers was. So glad they got one last adventure together'

'Watch Hairy Bikers and I'm in bits already'

'Two minutes into the last ever Hairy Bikers and already I'm crying especially when Dave said: 'let's make these last miles count'.

Dave was receiving chemotherapy throughout filming for the 650 mile road trip down the West coast and as the trip drew to a close in Devon and Dorset, he poignantly remarked: 'Who knows what the future holds but for the moment, I'm living in the present, and it's pretty fine.'

He continued: 'We've had a blast, lovely landscape, new friends and great food.

'And the two of us back together, doing what we do best. The west really will be a trip to remember,

'It has been amazing, love you'.

Si choked back tears as he struggles to find the words to express himself, admitting: 'I'm just lost for words. It's quite remarkable what he's done.'

BBC Two has continued to air Dave's final Hairy Bikers series which sees the iconic duo continue tour some of their favourite spots in the UK.

It came after Hairy Bikers' fans become emotional as they watched Dave's final ever episode with co-star Si, which aired on Tuesday

The emotional final scenes saw Dave and Si wrap up their incredible journey and after the credits rolled, a tribute read: 'In loving memory of our friend, Dave Myers'

After the news of Dave's passing last month, the strong friendship between the pair and their love for adventure and great food seems even more poignant.

Dave announced he was receiving treatment for cancer in May 2022 and bravely kept the public up to date with his progress in a series of emotional TV specials .

He died at the end of February with his family and friends by his side, including his lifelong friend Si.

It was Si who announced the sad news of Dave's death, sharing a tribute on social media.
Eva Mendes has branded her mom 'incredible' for retaining her sense of humour during her battle with cancer.

The 50-year-old actress opened up about her mother Eva Perez Suarez's health crisis two months ago revealing she is now a 'cancer survivor' after finishing treatment.

And she's now credited her with staying strong and 'funny' throughout such a tough few years after losing Eva's brother Carlos to cancer in 2016.

During an appearance on the Today show, Eva said: 'She lost my brother just a few years ago to cancer ... This woman is incredible. She's still funny as hell.'

Eva went on to explain she has been taking her mum to her follow-up appointments and she's still cracking jokes.

Eva Mendes has branded her mom 'incredible' for retaining her sense of humour during her battle with cancer. The 50-year-old actress opened up about her mother Eva Perez Suarez's health crisis two months ago revealing she is now a 'cancer survivor' after finishing treatment

And she's now credited her with staying strong and 'funny' throughout such a tough few years after losing Eva's brother Carlos to cancer in 2016. During an appearance on the Today show, Eva said: 'She lost my brother just a few years ago to cancer ... This woman is incredible. She's still funny as hell'

The movie star added: 'If I take her to the doctor's office, which I take her often, and they ask her, like: 'Oh, you know, have you had this removed or do you have this?'

'She goes: 'Listen, it's easier if I tell you what I still have. Everything's gone'.'

Earlier this year, the 'Last Night' star shared her mother's cancer battle with her followers on Instagram but explained her mum didn't want the details of her health crisis to be made public.

Eva wrote: 'This Barbie is my Hero. I wish this Barbie wasn't so private then I'd be able to share everything she has survived  but the only thing she'll let me share is that she is a cancer survivor. Like that's not enough, I know. I see my strength in her eyes.'

Eva's brother Carlos died in 2016 at the age of 53 after a battle with throat cancer - just two weeks before she welcomed her second daughter with partner Ryan Gosling.

This comes after Mendes said she and Gosling had a 'non-verbal agreement' she'd be a stay-at-home mom.

Eva went on to explain she has been taking her mum to her follow-up appointments and she's still cracking jokes

The actress has daughters Esmeralda, nine, and seven-year-old Amada with 'Barbie' actor Ryan, 43, who she's been with since 2011, and added they had an unspoken deal where they knew her work was going to be taking care of their children while he went out and earned money in Hollywood.

She said on the 'Today' show: 'It was almost just like a non-verbal agreement, that it was like, 'Ok, he's going to work and I'm going to work, I'm just going to work here.'

Eva stressed she felt it was a 'no-brainer' to put her successful Hollywood career on hold to spend time nurturing their kids, adding: 'I'm so lucky.'

She also said she still has a career and has only put her acting on hold as she has two young kids.

This comes after Mendes said she and partner Ryan Gosling had a 'non-verbal agreement' she'd be a stay-at-home mom. Seen March 12 in Texas

Eva added: 'I still worked, I just didn't act because acting takes you on locations, it takes you away.'

She admitted she 'pretty much stopped acting' after she Ryan starred together in their 2012 'The Place Beyond the Pines' film.

Eva added about the project: 'I have never experienced anything like that  the way he works, his commitment to his craft, how he wants to make everything as best as it can be, and that means making his co-stars as best as they can be.'

She also opened up about his performance of 'I'm Just Ken' from his 'Barbie' film at this year's Oscars earlier this month,

Eva added: 'I still worked, I just didn't act because acting takes you on locations, it takes you away'

Eva added: 'He went and he did his job. He just happens to be really good at his job, and he did it and he came home.'

On the night of the Oscars, she posted on Instagram she wanted Ryan to 'come home' and 'put the kids to bed'.

She told the 'Today' show: 'Because that's what it's about. You go, you do your job the best you can and then you come home.'

Eva had been backstage ahead of the 96th Academy Awards to support Ryan, who was nominated for best supporting actor for playing Ken in director Greta Gerwig's 'Barbie' blockbuster, and the couple's daughters attended his dress rehearsal  and offered the actor advice.

Ryan said at the SXSW festival about their input: 'It was great. It was so fun because they came to the dress rehearsal the day before and so they were in the front row.

'They gave me some tips and some notes  all great notes.'
Marcus Jordan vented his frustrations on Instagram - after Larsa Pippen opened up about their split.

The 33-year-old seemed to be calling out Pippen, 49, on Tuesday, posting a message about how 'rewriting history for clout' was not 'cute.'

Marcus and Larsa split for good earlier this month after less than two years of dating.

She had recently revealed she realized Marcus wasn't her 'guy' after she spent time away from him, giving her clarity on their relationship.

Marcus' Instagram Story, which was ultimately deleted, began: 'I wasn't born last night.

Marcus Jordan had a thing or two to say after Larsa Pippen revealed her reasons for their split; pictured November 2023

The 33-year-old seemed to be calling out Pippen, 49, on his Instagram Stories on Tuesday, posting a message about how 'rewriting history for clout' was not 'cute'

'Rewriting history for clout is not cute. Funny how ppl change, just to be part of a conversation thats irrelevant.

'Why give shorty a heart, when she rather have press. Ooooohhh thats that nerve lol.'

It comes after Larsa provided an explanation as to why she and Marcus split for good.

The reality star and former best friend of Kim Kardashian sat down with Amy Robach and TJ Holmes for their podcast, Amy & TJ on iheartRadio.

She explained that she realized Marcus wasn't her 'guy' after she spent time away from him, giving her clarity on their relationship.

Larsa noted that she believes Marcus and herself are on 'different journey's and that it it not age related, despite the fact that she is 49 and he is 33.

Larsa said she was filming the reality show House of Villains on E! when she reflected on their on/off relationship.

'You know, I feel like I just finished. I just wrapped up shooting the show, and I spent time away from him and everyone else. I was there for like two weeks, and it just kind of gave me clarity when I was alone,' she said on the podcast.

It comes after Larsa provided an explanation as to why she and Marcus split for good; Larsa and Marcus pictured January 10 in NYC

'And I think when you're alone, you kind of really miss the person or you realize maybe you aren't my guy, and that made me realize, I don't think he's my guy.'

She continued: 'I just think we are on a different journey and I feel like I have to be true to who I am, what I'm doing, and what he's doing.'

'I want him to be happy, he's a great guy, but I just don't feel like it's for me.'

Larsa was asked if she thinks age was a factor in their split: 'I don't think it's the age. It's just where we are right now.

'It's hard sometimes to break up because you are so used to living with the person, we had our podcast together, we worked together, I had him on Housewives.'

The mom of four also added that is single.

The reality star and former best friend of Kim Kardashian sat down with Amy Robach and TJ Holmes for their podcast, Amy & TJ on iheartRadio; seen March 25 in New York City

She explained that she realized Marcus wasn't her 'guy' after she spent time away from him, giving her clarity on their relationship

Larsa noted that she believes Marcus and herself are on 'different journey's and that it it not age related, despite the fact that she is 49 and he is 33; pictured January 10 in NYC

Larsa and Marcus both unfollowed each other on Instagram after the first split, with Larsa posting a cryptic message on her Instagram stories that appeared to be a reference to Marcus. They refollowed each other and then unfollowed each other again following the second split

Larsa and Marcus split for the first time just days before Valentine's Day - even unfollowing each other - reuniting one week later after a reconciliation and re-following one another.

They split for the second time and for good in mid-March.

Larsa and Marcus started dating September 2022.

In early July, Marcus' father - Michael Jordan - was asked if he was in favor of the relationship outside Matignon in Paris and he said 'No!' with a laugh.

He was there with his wife Yvette Prieto, 44.

Michael, 60, has been in a feud with Larsa's ex husband Scottie Pippen, who was married to Larsa from 1997 until 2021.

Larsa has four children with ex-Scottie.

It is unclear if Larsa and Marcus are continuing their joint podcast called Separation Anxiety.
Iconic BBC Radio host Tony Blackburn has signed off his show for the final time.

Sharing a heartfelt message to his BBC Berkshire, Oxford and Solent listeners, he said his last goodbyes with an emotional message on Sunday after 43 years.

The veteran presenter, 81, hosted his final stint on the local programme, with fans paying tribute shortly after and saying how much he will be missed.

Drawing the curtains on his time on the show, Tony said: 'You'll never find another laugh like mine.

'43 years on BBC local radio, and that's it as far as I'm concerned.

Iconic BBC Radio host Tony Blackburn signed off his radio show for the final time on Sunday after 43 years on air

Sharing a heartfelt message to his BBC Berkshire, Oxford and Solent listeners, he said his last goodbyes with an emotional message (pictured in 2004)

'Thank you so much. I want to thank you very much indeed for listening to me over the years.

'It's been a pleasure being here and I look forward to being with you in other places.

'Once again thanks very much indeed for all the memories and all the lovely music, I hope you've enjoyed the music I've brought you on Sunday afternoons.

'From me Tony Blackburn to BBC Local Radio, bye bye.'

He aired his final BBC local radio show on Sunday after 43 years but will still present Sounds of the 60s and Tony Blackburn's Golden Hour on Radio 2 at weekends

The radio star also took to Twitter on Tuesday to share even more thanks with his fans as he thanked his 120,000 Twitter followers.

Posting a picture of an animated heart, he penned: 'Just want to say thanks to all those of you who follow me its great to have you along.'

Fans fled to the comment section to thank Tony for all his work and share their own fond memories.

The veteran presenter, 81, hosted his final stint on the local programme and fans took to Twitter soon after to pay tribute

Drawing the curtains on his time on the show, Tony said: 'You'll never find another laugh like mine'

The radio star also took to Twitter on Tuesday to share even more thanks with his fans as he thanked his 120,000 Twitter followers

One wrote: 'Thank you for brightening many lives with your music, your humour and your good company. Congratulations on your OBE.'

'It's a pleasure, you are such a joy to listen to. Your well deserved OBE should stand for Outstanding Broadcasting Experience. You've been a radio constant of mine for years, and I smile when I hear your voice as I know it's always going to be a great show.'

'Tony! I have been listening to you since Caroline. I used to have a little transistor Radio which I took bed with me in the 60s when I was a kid. You havent changed. Your voice and enthusiasm hasnt changed one bit and your jokes bad but funny jokes gave me a sense of humour! X'

'I've actually been following you Tony since the 70's when you were on Radio 1 and seaside special. Radio would simply not be the same without you. Keep going!'

'We all love you, Tony. You have managed to keep your dignity all through your life. Well done. Keep on trucking'

'Our pleasure, we all consider you a life long friend. Please carry on. We would miss you so much xxxx.'

'We love you Tony and enjoying tracks of my years with Vernon at the mo.'

It comes after he left fans with raised eyebrows when he claimed to have slept with 250 women before settling down.

But despite once being a Romeo who roared around swinging London in his E-type Jag, Tony admits he 'made up' how many sexual encounters he enjoyed before marrying his wife Debbie in 1992.

The veteran DJ said he plucked the number out of the air for his 1985 autobiography when ghostwriter Cheryl Garnsey wanted more salacious details.

Tony also once claimed the number was as high as 500. However, he told Radio Times it was not an accurate number, and he did not even read the book before it was published.

'She [the writer] said she hadn't got enough sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll,' he said.

'Well, I don't do drugs and I made up this number because I was fed up being asked about my personal life. Not my best moment, to be honest. I didn't read my own autobiography. It was stupid.'

Fans fled to the comment section to thank Tony for all his work and share their own fond memories

The veteran DJ (pictured with his OBE) aired his final BBC local radio show on Sunday after 43 years but will still present Sounds of the 60s and Tony Blackburn's Golden Hour on Radio 2 at weekends

He married second wife Debbie Thompson a decade after meeting her as a chorus girl in a pantomime he starred in and they have a daughter Victoria, 27.

Blackburn also has a son Simon, 50, with his first wife Tessa Wyatt. They had been married from 1972-77.

He has no plans to retire fully, saying: 'I can't stand the idea of not working. I don't want to overstay my welcome... but at the moment, it seems all right.'

Last year, Tony temporarily pulled out of his popular Sound of the 60s Tour and Radio 2 show after he was taken ill.

At the time, he said he had a chest infection but in August, he confirmed he had life-threatening conditions sepsis, pneumonia and blood poisoning.

He said he had only just fully recovered over the summer after he was discharged from the Wellington Hospital in London in May and continued to have daily injections afterwards.

'I was doing three a week at one time forgetting that I'm now a little bit older, so I ended up in hospital for two months with sepsis and pneumonia and blood poisoning,' he said on BBC Radio Scotland.

'And I didn't realise how unwell I was until one day in the hospital my whole family were gathered around the bed. And I thought 'this isn't good'.

'A couple of weeks ago I went to see my specialist and he said 'you are cured', so that was a nice thing to hear.'

After a three-month break, Tony returned to his tour but only went ahead with one show each week, rather than the three per week he had previously planned.

Back in February 2016, Tony was taken off air by the BBC following the Dame Janet Smith review into sexual abuse at the station.

He was sacked because his evidence to the Savile inquiry, which centred around an allegation made against him in 1971, 'fell short' of the standards the BBC demanded.

However, Tony - who was the first DJ to broadcast on Radio 1 upon its 1967 launch - claimed he was a 'scapegoat' after their decision and he was reinstated months later.

At the time, Tony strenuously denied that he 'seduced' Hertfordshire teenager Claire McAlpine in the 1970s and contended that he was never questioned about the allegation by his bosses.

Earlier this year, Tony temporarily pulled out of his popular Sound of the 60s Tour and Radio 2 show earlier this year after he was taken ill with sepsis, pneumonia and blood poisoning

Dame Janet Smith - author of the Savile review - described his evidence as flawed and it was 'rejected' because it 'fell short' of the standards the BBC demanded.

Tony claimed he was told if he resigned from the BBC there would be an opportunity for him to return, but he refused 'because I have got nothing to hide'.

He was later reinstated and admitted he found it 'difficult' to talk about the situation as he tried to put the situation 'behind' him.

After he was reinstated, the BBC said it stood by the findings of Dame Janet Smith's review, which made no findings as to any allegations concerning his relationship with the girl, and the decision to take Blackburn off air at the start of this year.
Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid held hands during another hot date in New York City on Tuesday, this time in Lower Manhattan's Financial District.

At 49, the Maestro director-star is 21 years older than the IMG Model, but they've been they've been going strong ever since their first sighting together on October 5.

Gigi (born Jelena) sported a green sweatshirt emblazoned with Mickey & Minnie Mouse, white wide-leg trousers, and brown sneakers.

Hadid accessorized her childlike Disney attire with a $2,850 Miu Miu 'Arcadie' leather bag, matching beanie and belt, as well as several gold chain necklaces.

On Saturday, Bradley took the Guest in Residence founder to Broadway's Sweeney Todd at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre and on Friday, they dined at Italian restaurant Cucina Alba.

Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid held hands during another hot date in New York City on Tuesday, this time in Lower Manhattan's Financial District

At 49, the Maestro director-star is 21 years older than the IMG Model, but they've been they've been going strong ever since their first sighting together on October 5

'I definitely think I'm a private person. But you almost sort of have to give over to the fact that it's impossible to be private these days,' Cooper told the British Film Institute on January 24.

'So it's more about acceptance of the reality, instead of creating my own reality that doesn't exist.'

The two-time Grammy winner and his ex-fiancee Irina Shayk - who employ no nannies - share 50/50 joint legal and physical custody of their six-year-old daughter Lea De Seine following the end of their four-year romance in 2019.

Bradley - whose five-month marriage to Jennifer Esposito ended in 2007 - previously dated his Case 39 leading lady Renee Zellweger, his The Words leading lady Zoe Saldana, Suki Waterhouse, Dianna Agron, and Isabella Brewster.

Meanwhile, Gigi mothered three-year-old daughter Khai during her on/off six-year relationship with ex-1D boybander Zayn Malik, which ended in 2021 when he was arrested on four counts of harassment against her mother Yolanda Hadid.

Hadid also previously dated Cody Simpson, Joe Jonas, and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Cooper's street sighting came the day after the legendary Carol Burnett said she no longer wanted George Clooney for her 91st birthday on April 26: 'But now I'm thinking about Bradley Cooper.'

Live With Kelly and Mark host Kelly Ripa told the Palm Royale star she could use their studio phone to call the Philly native during Monday's episode, but she replied: 'I don't think it'll work with my husband.'

Gigi (born Jelena) sported a green sweatshirt emblazoned with Mickey & Minnie Mouse, white wide-leg trousers, and brown sneakers

Hadid accessorized her childlike Disney attire with a $2,850 Miu Miu 'Arcadie' leather bag, matching beanie and belt, as well as several gold chain necklaces

On Saturday, Bradley took the Guest in Residence founder to Broadway's Sweeney Todd at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre and on Friday, they dined at Italian restaurant Cucina Alba

Cooper told the British Film Institute on January 24: 'I definitely think I'm a private person. But you almost sort of have to give over to the fact that it's impossible to be private these days. So it's more about acceptance of the reality, instead of creating my own reality that doesn't exist'

The two-time Grammy winner's street sighting came the day after the legendary Carol Burnett said she no longer wanted George Clooney for her 91st birthday on April 26: 'But now I'm thinking about Bradley Cooper'

Live With Kelly and Mark host Kelly Ripa (M) told the Palm Royale star she could use their studio phone to call Bradley during Monday's episode, but she replied: 'I don't think it'll work with my husband'

Gigi spent all day Tuesday hard at work modeling on the set of a shoot for cosmetics company, Maybelline New York

This autumn, Cooper will direct his $10M-budget third feature film Searchlight's Is This Thing On?, in which he'll co-star with Will Arnett (R, pictured April 24)

But first, audiences can catch Todd Phillips' $200M-budget supervillain sequel Joker: Folie a Deux starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga (pictured April 2) - hitting UK/US theaters October 4 - which was produced by the SAG Award winner

On November 24, Carol celebrated her 22nd wedding anniversary with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra drummer Brian Miller, who's her third husband.

The Next In Fashion co-host spent all day Tuesday hard at work modeling on the set of a shoot for cosmetics company, Maybelline New York.

This autumn, the Abbott Elementary guest star will direct his third feature film Searchlight's Is This Thing On?, in which he'll co-star with Will Arnett.

'Our next movie is a tiny little movie that we're going to shoot in the fall, a little $10M movie,' Bradley told the British Film Institute on January 24.

Cooper and the 53-year-old SmartLess podcaster previously co-starred in Tom Brady's 2007 satirical comedy The Comebacks and Peter Cattaneo's 2008 comedy The Rocker.

The SAG Award winner is also set to portray the titular San Francisco cop in Steven Spielberg's untitled Frank Bullitt film, which will be produced by Steve McQueen's son Chad McQueen and granddaughter Molly McQueen.

But first, audiences can catch Todd Phillips' $200M-budget supervillain sequel Joker: Folie a Deux starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga - hitting UK/US theaters October 4 - which was produced by Bradley.

Cooper's last film Maestro was nominated for seven Oscars, four Golden Globes, two SAG Awards, seven BAFTAs, and eight Critics' Choice Movie Awards - but it failed to win any major trophy during awards season.
Bethenny Frankel has claimed that she was randomly punched in New York a few months ago - amid a worrying rise of violence in the city.

The reality star, 53, made the revelation in the comments section of a Tik Toker who also claimed that she was randomly assaulted.

Bethenny wrote in the comments section of Mikayla Toninato's Tik Tok video about her assault.

'This is insane bc this happened to me a few months ago but I was embarrassed to say. I was on the UWS [Upper West Side]. I was taking video of a bakery,' she wrote in the comments section via Page Six, which she has since deleted.

Bethenny Frankel says she was randomly punched in New York City a couple of months ago; The reality star, 53, made the revelation in the comments section of a Tik Toker who said she was randomly punched in New York City

Bethenny wrote in the comments section of Mikayla Toninato's Tik Tok video about her assault; Mikayla pictured

Mikayla's video that Bethenny commented on was her talking about how she was assaulted walking home

Mikayla's video that Bethenny commented on was her talking about how she was assaulted walking home.

Mikayla said in her Tik Tok video, which was shared on Tuesday: 'I just got punched in the face, walking home. I was literally like leaving class, I turned the corner and I was looking down and I was looking at my phone, and like texting, and then out of nowhere, this man just came up and hit me in the face.'

Mikayla's video has over 10.6 million views.

Another Tiktoker named Halley Kate had a similar attack on Monday - recounting it on her page.

'You guys I was literally just walking, and a man came up and punched me in the face,' she said.

'Oh my God, it was so bad I can't even talk,' she added.

The video now has over 41.1 million views.

Another Tiktoker named Halley Kate had a similar attack - recounting it on her page

'You guys I was literally just walking, and a man came up and punched me in the face,' she said

A third Tik Toker named Olivia Brand recounted her assault in the Big Apple. Her attack took place on March 17.

She said she was walking and 'literally got punched in the head on the sidewalk. He goes, "Sorry," then punches me in the head.'

Olivia added: 'Holy c**p, what the hell just happened? Oh my God.'

Her video has over 5 million views.

After Bethenny's comment on Mikayla's Tik Tok, the reality star appeared to have deleted it.

She did not further divulge about the incident.

According to Page Six, more than 25 women have revealed on Tik Tok they were randomly attacked in New York City in the past few months.

The growing number of random punching attacks in New York City seemingly appears to part of a disturbing trend called the knockout game - where strangers punch random strangers in New York City with the intent of 'punching them unconscious.'

The so-called violent game began in 1992 after Yngv Raustein, a MIT grad student, was attacked by a group of local teenagers in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Yngve was attacked and punched by the teenagers, who then stabbed him; he succumbed to his injuries.

They had told proscecutors att the time that their goal was to to 'floor a stranger' with just one punch.

They had added that if they were unsuccessful, they would be targeted by witnesses.

The purpose of the sick game is to inflict violence on strangers.

It resurfaced in 2017 and most recently was rampant in 2021 and 2022.

In 2022, there were a reported 20 incidents by August of that year.
Kate Ferdinand has bravely detailed her secret skin struggles after sharing a makeup-free snap on Instagram.

The former TOWIE star, 32, admitted she had 'really, really struggled' with hyperpigmentation in the past, and it left her feeling 'insecure' for many years.

In a video in conjunction with skincare giant, La Roche Posay, Kate shared: 'I started getting like a black mark on the top of my head and above my lip and the kids were like: 'What's that? And I was thinking: 'What is that?'

'It's something I've really, really struggled with. It's made me so insecure.'

Sharing the makeup-free snap of her complexion, she continued: 'I put a picture on my social media and you can see there's a like a patchwork on my face.'

Kate Ferdinand has bravely shared her secret struggles with hyperpigmentation after sharing a makeup-free snap on Instagram

The former TOWIE star admitted she had 'really, really struggled' with hyperpigmentation in the past, and it left her feeling 'so insecure'

Admitting it took 'a lot' to share her skin struggles, Kate added: 'I had thousands and thousands of people saying ''we're going through the same thing.'''

Kate first shared her skin struggles back in 2021, when she posted a makeup-free snap to Instagram.

She captioned her post: '''Kate whats the dark thing above your lip?'' Me without makeup.

'For the last few years even with SPF 50 & a hat, as soon as the sun comes out my face looks like a patchwork. I always feel so insecure about it & it really does get me down, I try to cover it at all costs.'

The star was praised by fans for sharing her common skin struggles, and she later added: 'Thank you so much for all of your messages on my recent post, I really didn't realise how many of you have pigmentation/melasma too!

'Honestly, I was so scared to post this! But again, you have all shown me how sharing our insecurities and not so perfect moments can bring us together and prove social media can be a positive place at times.'

Kate previously revealed in an interview with The Sun that she suffers from melasma, a patchy skin pigmentation.

Speaking to the paper in March, Kate was asked what her 'beauty splurges' were, to which she replied: 'All my skincare products are expensive, but I have suffered from melasma [patchy pigmentation] so I really do take care of my skin.'

The British Skin Foundation explains melasma as 'a common skin condition of adults in which brown or greyish patches of pigmentation (colour) develop, usually on the face.'

Kate first shared her skin struggles back in 2021, when she posted a makeup-free snap to Instagram, earning praise from her fans

Kate and her family have been enjoying a luxurious stay at the Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, which boasts seven restaurants, three outdoor pools and a luxurious spa

The description continues: 'It is more common in women, particularly during pregnancy (when up to 50% of women may be affected). Sometimes men may also be affected. Melasma is more common in people of colour and those who tan very quickly but can occur to anyone.'

The charity's information page concludes: 'Melasma usually becomes more noticeable in the summer and improves during the winter months.

'It is not an infection; therefore, it is not contagious, and it is not due to an allergy. It is not cancerous and will not develop into skin cancer.'

Kate and her family have been enjoying a luxurious stay at the Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, which boasts seven restaurants, three outdoor pools and a luxurious spa.

Kate also shared a slew of social media snaps from her lavish family getaway in Abu Dhabi and looked sensational in a blue bikini.

It comes after Kate revealed whether her and Rio were planning to expand their family further.

Kate did a Q and A on Instagram last month where she was asked about if they were planning on adding to their blended family.

When asked: 'Do you want anymore children?' Kate replied: 'The shop is shut. Five is more than enough for us'.
Mel B has revealed her former bandmate Geri Halliwell has lied about her age for years as she claimed Ginger Spice is not 51-years-old.

Despite travelling the world together, Scary Spice, 48, revealed her longtime pal always kept her passport close to her chest so she 'still doesn't know' how old she is.

Mel admitted she 'doesn't believe' that Geri is born in 1972, despite her celebrating her 50th birthday last year.

Speaking to Olivia Attwood on her hit podcast So Wrong Its Right, which will be available to listen to from Thursday, Mel said it is 'wrong' to lie about your age and people should 'embrace it' more.

She said: 'Oh no, that's, that's wrong. Yeah, I feel like we should stop doing it. Embrace your age.'

Mel B has revealed her former bandmate Geri Halliwell has lied about her age for years as she claimed Ginger Spice is not 51-years-old

Despite travelling the world together, Scary Spice, 48, revealed her longtime pal always kept her passport close to her chest so she 'still doesn't know' how old she is (pictured in March 2024)

Olivia added: 'My mum was here the other day and she said, Oh no, it's right, because I don't even know how old she is.'

Mel B added: 'No, well no one knows how old Geri is. No one's seen her passport. I mean, I know we've travelled the world, but I still don't know how old she is.

'Well, she claims she just had her 50th birthday, but I don't believe her.'

Mel also added that there will 'definitely' be a Spice Girls reunion but it won't be at Glastonbury.

She said: 'I don't think its going to be at Glastonbury but its definitely going to happen.'

Reports had claimed that all five original members would reunite in 2024 for a headline slot at Worthy Farm.

In 2019, the band embarked on a 13-date UK tour without Victoria Beckham, nicknamed Posh Spice during her time with the group.

At the time she told Vogue: 'It took me a lot of courage not to go on tour with the Spice Girls again, but to be the one who says: "You know, I'm not doing it because things feel different now than they used to."'

Mel admitted she 'doesn't believe' that Geri is born in 1972, despite her celebrating her 50th birthday last year.

Speaking to Olivia Attwood on her hit podcast So Wrong Its Right, she said: 'No one knows how old Geri is. No one's seen her passport. She claims she just had her 50th birthday, but I don't believe her'

Mel also added that there will 'definitely' be a Spice Girls reunion but it won't be at Glastonbury (pictured Emma Bunton, Mel C, Victoria Adams, Geri Halliwell and Mel B in 1996)

In December 2022, Geri was spotted dancing with her Spice Girls bandmates to their hit Say You'll Be There at her star-studded 50th birthday celebration.

Ginger Spice turned 50 in August and had planned her party for September but postponed it due to the late Queen's death.

Geri hosted the party with her Formula One racing boss husband Christian Horner, at the home they share together.

Olivia's new podcast So Wrong It's Right flew straight to Number One in the charts and has also maintained being in the top 10 since it launched last month.

The podcast hosted by the former Love Island star sees her chatting with a number of celebrity pals including Georgia Harrison and Pete Wicks.

Olivia Attwoods new podcast, So Wrong Its Right, is available to listen on all podcast platforms.
Ellen Pompeo and Mark Duplass shared a romantic kiss on the set of their latest series, Orphan, in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

The actress was spotted dressed in character as she wore a short floral dress paired with a lavender cardigan.

Her blonde locks cascaded over her shoulders in loose waves as she had on light makeup that flaunted her natural beauty.

The 47-year-old actor was also in costume boasting his Sunday best in a blue jacket and dress shirt with khakis in the bottom.

Their chemistry was evident on camera as they were photographed in an embrace while filming a scene.

Ellen Pompeo and Mark Duplass shared a romantic kiss on the set of their latest series, Orphan, in Los Angeles on Wednesday

The actress was spotted dressed in character as she wore a short floral dress paired with a lavender cardigan

Their chemistry was evident on camera as they were photographed in an embrace

Pompeo plays the role of Kristine Barnett who is the adoptive mother of Natalia and wife of Duplass' character, Michael Barnett.

Imogen Faith Reid, who previously found work in The One and Only Ivan, will star as Natalia in the limited series.

Katie Robbins, who is a writer for the series and doubles as a showrunner, has worked on Coming Soon and Girls On Top.

The Grey's Anatomy star is set to also executive produce the latest Hulu series - which is based on actual events.

According to the show's description, 'the series is inspired by the true story of Natalia Grace and the Midwestern couple who adopted her believing she was a little girl with dwarfism but gradually started to believe she may not be who she said she was.'

The storyline follows the events of a husband and wife that was accused of abusing and neglecting their adopted Ukrainian daughter in 2010.

To represent the divergent stories that its main characters are telling, it is told from several of points of view.

The series shows how the couple's world crashes down as they are forced to defend themselves against the narratives spun about their adopted daughter.

The storyline follows the events of a husband and wife that was accused of abusing and neglecting their adopted Ukrainian daughter

In real life, they were accused of abandoning Natalia in 2013 when they moved her to an apartment in Indiana and moved to Canada with their two biological sons. Federal charges were filed against the couple in September 2019.

The Barnetts said that when they adopted Natalia, she was already experiencing menstruation, and that she was actually an adult woman pretending to be a child.

They also said that she attempted to hurt Kristine and their other biological children.

A release date has yet to be set for the series.

A release date has yet to be set for the series

Ellen is currently married to Chris Ivery, who she met in a Los Angeles grocery store

Ellen is currently married to Chris Ivery, who she met in a Los Angeles grocery store back in 2003.

After four years of dating, the pair said 'I do' in a New York court as mayor Michael Bloomberg witnessed the union.

They share two daughters and a son: Stella Luna, 14, Sienna May, 9, and Eli Christopher, 6.
TOKYO, Mar 27 (News On Japan) - Following the movie sequel "Lupin the Third vs. Detective Conan: The Movie," which was released in December 2013, the collaboration between the popular characters Lupin and Conan continues...

Following a hunting accident that results in the deaths of Queen Sakura and Prince Gill of the Vespania Kingdom, Princess Mira is set to inherit the throne. Unable to accept her mother and brother's deaths, Mira refuses to ascend to the throne. During a reception in Tokyo, Mira seizes the opportunity to escape and ends up switching places with Ran, who bears a striking resemblance to her. While Ran is in Mira's place, Mira enjoys a brief taste of freedom with Fujiko and Lupin. Meanwhile, Conan teams up with Daisuke Jigen to uncover the truth behind the hunting accident...

On March 31st at 7:00 PM, BS12 TwellV's "Sunday Anime Theater" will broadcast "Lupin the Third vs. Detective Conan."

Source: Dengeki
She has dominated the West End for her performance as a lead actress in Mamma Mia for over ten years.

But after decades of performances, shows and gigs, the BBC have decided a robot can do her job better after replacing actress Sara Poyzer with Artificial Intelligence.

Ms Poyzer, who has toured the world playing Donna Sheridan in the Mamma Mia musical for 11 years, has had a successful career as an actress and voiceover artist.

Most recently starring in Olivier award winning West End show Come From Away, she has been employed by the BBC for at least 20 years working on hit shows Doctors, EastEnders and The Archers.

But yesterday she received an email from the corporation telling her she was no longer needed for a role.

Sara Poyzer (pictured as Donna Sheridan in Mamma Mia) has dominated the West End for her performance as a lead actress in Mamma Mia for over ten years

Yesterday she received an email from the corporation telling her she was no longer needed for a role

The BBC have decided a robot can do her job better after replacing actress Sara Poyzer with Artificial Intelligence (File image)

Posting a screenshot on her Twitter and Instagram, the email read: 'Sorry for the delay  we have had the approval from the BBC to use the AI generated voice so we won't need Sara anymore.'

Tagging the BBC and trade union Equity, Ms Poyzer captioned the photo 'sobering' with a sad face emoji.

The Mail has learnt that the email was a response from a production company that was working with the BBC on a project hoping to hire Ms Poyzer.

Ms Poyzer was waiting to hear back on whether it had been confirmed but was told they would be using AI instead.

She commented on her post saying that the industry was in 'grim times'.

She was flooded with support in the comments with many industry professionals saying the same thing had happened to them too recently.

'It's happened with myself and art projects many times now, sorry this has happened to you,' one person said.

Another commented: 'Happening to all our industries. It's killing all our jobs. I saw an entire set which was AI the other day.'

'This is awful and so heartlessly put,' another said.

Posting a screenshot on her Twitter and Instagram, the email read: 'Sorry for the delay  we have had the approval from the BBC to use the AI generated voice so we won't need Sara anymore'

She was flooded with support with many industry professionals saying the same thing had happened to them too recently

Ms Poyzer was waiting to hear back on whether it had been confirmed but was told they would be using AI instead

Equity, the performing arts workers union, launched 'Stop AI Stealing The Show' in 2022- a campaign around performers' rights over Artificial Intelligence.

The BBC covered and backed the campaign heavily discussing it on the likes of Front Row and BBC News.

This week the BBC vowed to stop using AI to promote Doctor Who after receiving complaints from viewers.

Voice Squad, a voiceover agency that works with Ms Poyzer said: 'We were very disappointed to receive the production company's response, particularly as it's a BBC project.

'The BBC have always stood for quality in their factual and drama broadcasting. As a voiceover agency we feel that AI is a danger to the whole industry  removing work from artists who have trained for three years at drama-school and spent many years honing their craft.

'Voice artists are particularly skilled actors who deserve not to have their work devalued.'

The BBC was contacted for comment, while Ms Poyzer declined to comment.
Cynthia Erivo, Rachel Zegler, and Todrick Hall charitably helped raise $42,425 for a Broadway star facing eviction from her New York City apartment as well as 'tens of thousands of dollars in debt.'

Kristolyn Lloyd created her 'Eviction Emergency Response' GoFundMe page on March 17, and she quickly surpassed her original $15K goal through 587 donations despite believing it would only raise '$3K-$5K.'

The 39-year-old Grammy winner needed to pay off court fees and pandemic-era back-pay to her landlord to save her beloved apartment of nine years where she resides with a roommate and three cats.

Cynthia and Todrick donated $500 each while Rachel shelled out $1,000 to Kristolyn.

The 37-year-old Oscar nominee commented on her March 18 Instagram post: 'We love you, you NEVER have to go it alone. You are a brilliant being and we are privileged to watch you work, but we also need you warm and safe and taken care of.'

Cynthia Erivo (L), Rachel Zegler (M), and Todrick Hall (R) charitably helped raise $42,425 for a Broadway star facing eviction from her New York City apartment as well as 'tens of thousands of dollars in debt.'

Kristolyn Lloyd created her 'Eviction Emergency Response' GoFundMe page on March 17, and she quickly surpassed her original $15K goal through 587 donations despite believing it would only raise '$3K-$5K'

The 22-year-old Hunger Games starlet wrote: 'You never walk alone.'

The 38-year-old Real Friends of WeHo star wrote: 'This is so honest and I have zero doubt that everyone you know who can, including myself, will help you! We have ALL BEEN THERE! Love you!'

'I've been crying all day,' Lloyd - who suffers from depression - said in an Instagram video of the 'immense amount of love' she received.

'This is changing my life and it's making it possible for me to stay in the city and keep doing this. And not have to move or stress while I'm trying to tech a show and do the thing that I love. I'm so insanely grateful. I just really went through so much of a shame spiral beforehand and so scared of what people were going to think of me...Thank you for believing in me!'

The Carnegie Mellon University grad has been hard at work rehearsing her role as Maggie/Mary in the off-Broadway play Sally & Tom, which runs Thursday through May 5 at The Public Theater in Manhattan's East Village.

Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks penned the edgy new dramedy about President Thomas Jefferson and his slave Sally Hemings, who mothered six of his children.

Kristolyn previously appeared in two Broadway musicals - 1776 at the American Airlines Theatre in 2022 and Dear Evan Hansen at the Music Box Theatre from 2016-2018.

But Lloyd is perhaps best known for her role as homeless woman-turned-coffee shop owner Dayzee Leigh in 178 episodes of CBS' The Bold and the Beautiful spanning 2010-2013.

The 39-year-old Grammy winner needed to pay off court fees and pandemic-era back-pay to her landlord to save her beloved apartment of nine years where she resides with a roommate and three cats (pictured in 2022)

Cynthia and Todrick donated $500 each while Rachel shelled out $1,000 to Kristolyn

The 37-year-old Oscar nominee commented on her March 18 Instagram post: 'We love you, you NEVER have to go it alone. You are a brilliant being and we are privileged to watch you work, but we also need you warm and safe and taken care of'

The 22-year-old Hunger Games starlet wrote: 'You never walk alone'

The 38-year-old Real Friends of WeHo star wrote: 'This is so honest and I have zero doubt that everyone you know who can, including myself, will help you! We have ALL BEEN THERE! Love you!'

Lloyd - who suffers from depression - said in an Instagram video of the 'immense amount of love' she received: 'I've been crying all day'

The Carnegie Mellon University grad continued: 'This is changing my life and it's making it possible for me to stay in the city and keep doing this. And not have to move or stress while I'm trying to tech a show and do the thing that I love. I'm so insanely grateful'

Kristolyn added: 'I just really went through so much of a shame spiral beforehand and so scared of what people were going to think of me...Thank you for believing in me!'

Lloyd (R, pictured last Thursday) has been hard at work rehearsing her role as Maggie/Mary in the off-Broadway play Sally & Tom, which runs Thursday through May 5 at The Public Theater in Manhattan's East Village

The Texan thespian (2-L, pictured in 2018) previously appeared in two Broadway musicals - 1776 at the American Airlines Theatre in 2022 and Dear Evan Hansen at the Music Box Theatre from 2016-2018
Blake Lively, 36, and Anna Kendrick have just been revealed to be returning for A Simple Favor 2.

The film is the sequel to the 2018 dark comedy helmed by Paul Feig, who returns for the new film.

According to a synopsis, A Simple Favor 2 sees the 'return of Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily's extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman.

'Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square,' The Hollywood Reporter revealed.

Kendrick, 37, is excited about the sequel, saying that Stephanie has 'got like a little bit more savvy in her,' but 'she's still Stephanie at the end of the day,' per E! News.

Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick have just been revealed to be returning for A Simple Favor 2

The film is the sequel to the 2018 dark comedy helmed by Paul Feig, who returns for the new film

'I've actually read the script now,' the actress told the outlet, 'and it's so good.'

Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho and Kelly McCormack all reprising their roles from the first feature.

Amazon MGM Studios announced Wednesday that the sequel movie, which will be co-produced by Lions Gate is planning to begin shooting this spring and will stream on Prime Video.

In the first film, which is based on the novel by Darcey Bell, Stephanie is taken with sophisticated, glamorous Emily after they bond over martinis and Stephanie is quickly made to feel somewhat insecure in front of the clearly cosmopolitan Emily.

'She's an enigma, my wife,' Emily's husband said in the original trailer for the film, before sharing the strange description 'she's like a beautiful ghost.'

A scene in a park follows, and Stephanie takes a fun photo of Emily, who quickly directs Stephanie to 'erase it,' with no explanation.

Stephanie then receives a mysterious call from Emily, who says that she needs her help with 'just a simple favor.'

A few days later, Stephanie announces on her blog that her friend Emily has apparently disappeared.

According to a synopsis, A Simple Favor 2 sees the 'return of Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) as they head to the beautiful island of Capri, Italy, for Emily's extravagant wedding to a rich Italian businessman

'Along with the glamorous guests, expect murder and betrayal to RSVP for a wedding with more twists and turns than the road from the Marina Grande to the Capri town square,' The Hollywood Reporter revealed

Kendrick is excited about the sequel, saying that Stephanie has 'got like a little bit more savvy in her,' but 'she's still Stephanie at the end of the day,' per E! News

Amazon MGM Studios announced Wednesday that the sequel movie, which will be co-produced by Lions Gate is planning to begin shooting this spring and will stream on Prime Video

In the first film, which is based on the novel by Darcey Bell, Stephanie is taken with sophisticated, glamorous Emily after they bond over martinis and Stephanie is quickly made to feel somewhat insecure in front of the clearly cosmopolitan Emily

Stephanie starts looking into Emily's past, and is warned to not go 'poking around' because 'she is not a normal person.'

Images then flash of Emily sporting magenta hair and matching thigh-high boots.

Things intensify as more voiceover explains that Emily's husband apparently took out a life insurance policy on his wife, who is now being looked for by a massive police search.

At the end of the film, Emily is sentenced to 20 years in prison and Stephanie has started a detective agency.
Gillian Anderson wowed in a strapless green dress as she attended the world premiere of Scoop in The Curzon in Mayfair, London on Wednesday night.

The actress, 55, who plays the role of Emily Maitlis in the upcoming Netflix drama, was the woman of the hour on the star-studded red carpet.

Gillian oozed glamour in a classic bodycon midi dress and elevated her frame with stylish silver high-heels.

The Sex Education star joined her co-stars Billie Piper, Romola Garai and Keeley Hawes for the evening as they celebrated the launch of the show.

Scoop - which releases April 5 - recreates the car crash Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew.

Gillian Anderson, 55, wowed in a strapless green dress as she attended the world premiere of Scoop in The Curzon in Mayfair, London on Wednesday night

The actress, who plays the role of Emily Maitlis in the upcoming Netflix drama, was the woman of the hour on the star-studded red carpet

The beauty was also spotted departing her luxury hotel in her sensational ensemble as she headed to the red carpet.

Gillian has been hailed as 'astonishing' in her upcoming role as Emily Maitlis after transforming into the Newsnight host in the new Prince Andrew film.

One person branded Gillian the 'female Michael Sheen' after seeing her in action as Maitlis, claiming 'she could literally transform into anyone'.

The upcoming film recreates the cringe-inducing 2019 interview between Emily and the disgraced royal down to the most meticulous detail.

The Netflix drama details the story behind the interview with the Duke of York, portrayed by Rufus Sewell, 56, and also features an almost unrecognisable Billie in blonde wig and high heels.

The actress stars as Sam McAlister, the Newsnight producer who secured Prince Andrews notorious interview with Maitlis.

Based on the book Scoops, by Sam McAlister, the film (according to the trailer) shows captures the tension behind booking the royal for the interview, as well as the tension among the cast during the interview.

The film is due to hit Netflix screens in the Spring and explores a behind-the-scenes look at how the interview was secured and how events surrounding it unfolded framed as a tribute to the work of the four women responsible.

Gillian oozed glamour in a classic bodycon midi dress and elevated her frame with stylish silver high-heels

Gillian was full of giggles as she posed on the red carpet

Gillian has been hailed as 'astonishing' in her upcoming role as Emily Maitlis after transforming into the Newsnight host in the new Prince Andrew film

The Sex Education star joined her co-stars Billie Piper , Romola Garai and Keeley Hawes for the evening as they celebrated the launch of the show

The beauty was also spotted departing her luxury hotel in her sensational ensemble as she headed to the red carpet

She kept warm in a glamorous black long over coat

Scoop - which releases April 5 - recreates the car crash Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew

It is based on Scoops by Sam McAlister who is also known as the 'Booker extraordinaire' on Newsnight having successfully negotiated and secured the interview which quizzed the Duke about his friendship with the late-convicted sex offender Jeffery Epstein.

Ms Maitlis discussed Virginia Giuffre's claims that she was forced to have sex with Andrew three times when she was 17 under the orders of Epstein.

The prince strongly denied the claims throughout the interview.
Christine Quinn has filed for a temporary restraining order against 'controlling' estranged husband Christian Richard as she claimed in new legal documents his arrest followed a two day 'rampage'.

Richard, 45, who wed the ex Selling Sunset star, 35, in 2019, was seen being led away in handcuffs by officers while barefoot and clad in only a bathrobe last Tuesday after the incident involving the couple's only child Christian Georges Dumontet, two.

It was claimed Richard had thrown a bag containing a glass bottle at Quinn but missed and hit their son instead - Richard has alleged the row erupted over Quinn's dogs urinating on his belongings - with the entrepreneur denying hitting their son and later filing for his own TRO - which was denied.

In new legal documents obtained by TMZ Quinn says her marriage was in decline for several years with their tensions erupting last week when she tried to discuss the family's financial woes with the retired millionaire.

She claims this angered Richard and he started 'throwing decorative items at her' - some of which contained metal rods.

Christine Quinn has filed for a temporary restraining order against 'controlling' estranged husband Christian Richard as she claimed in new legal documents his arrest followed a two day 'rampage'; seen together in March 2023 in LA

Richard, 45, who wed the ex Selling Sunset star, 35, in 2019, was seen being led away in handcuffs by officers while barefoot and clad in only a bathrobe on Tuesday after the incident involving the couple's only child Christian Georges Dumontet, two

She further claims he pulled his penis out and started urinating on the floor - later allegedly hurling dog feces at her during their row.

Quinn said the row calmed down - but made her determined to leave him for him - so she claims she secretly made plans to do so with their son the next day.

She says she invited a nanny over to ensure Richard 'wouldn't lock the home down.'

Quinn claims she was quietly packing her things on March 19 when Richard came storming into their room yelling - before throwing a bag of recyclables at her - only to miss and hit their son. She claims there was glass in the bag.

Once their son began 'screaming and crying' Quinn says she fled the room with the toddler and called 911 - before Richard was arrested.

She says she has been staying at a hotel and fears for her safety.

She further claims Richard is controlling and has mental health issues, with things worsening last year.

Quinn further alleges Richard is monitoring her digitally and in the TRO is asking the court to force him off her electronic accounts.

She requests protection for their son and is asking for sole physical/legal custody of the boy until their issues can be heard in front a judge, and asking for monitored visitation after that.

DailyMail.com has contacted Quinn's representative for comment.

Richard had filed for a temporary restraining order (TRO) that seeks to enforce a 'legal forcefield around him' - which he says was essential in light of Quinn's domestic violence allegations against him - which he denies.

Richard claims the two family dogs are not housetrained and urinate and defecate all over their LA home - and says Quinn refuses to have them trained.

He claims he discovered the two dogs had 'urinated all over some valuable belongings of his' despite him blocking off the area from the dogs.

Richard was arrested for allegedly throwing a bag of glass at Christine but instead hitting their son

Richard claims when he went to confront Quinn about he found her in their bedroom with cleaning supplies and other items 'strewn about all over.'

He says he became angry and picked up a trash bag on the ground - which he claims was full of soiled rags and paper towels - and threw it against a wall.

Richard denies throwing the bag at Quinn and denies hitting their young son, while also denying the bag was filled with glass. He says this information was relayed to Quinn by police.

After the bag was thrown Richard claims he tried to escort his son away from the scene but claims Quinn grabbed their son and holed in another room in the house.

Richard says police came in with guns raised and arrested him over 'lies' Quinn had told them.

He further claims Quinn filed a false police report and 'fabricated' domestic violence allegations against him to use as leverage in a potential divorce and custody battle.

Richard claims Quinn wants to 'embarrass him' which is why she called police. A judge has yet to approve his request for the TRO.

DailyMail.com has contacted Christine Quinn's representatives for comment.

This comes as Quinn is reportedly moving to ensure that her estranged husband Richard is kept far away from her and their son.

The Selling Sunset star has been meeting with lawyers to set in motion a temporary restraining order against Richard (real name: Christian Dumontet), according to TMZ.

The latest development comes after sources claimed that the reality star was planning on leaving her husband and filing for divorce.

Selling Sunset's Christine Quinn, 35, has been meeting with lawyers to set in motion a temporary restraining order against her husband Christian Richard, according to TMZ; seen December 2022 in France

Quinn currently has a week-long emergency protective order against her husband, but she will need to petition the courts for another restraining order once it runs out.

Sources told TMZ that she is in the process of meeting with attorneys to plan out her next steps.

The Selling Sunset star is reportedly planning to detail her entire history in order to secure a restraining order, and the sources describe their marriage as being a series of ups and downs.

She's reportedly ready to make additional serious allegations against her estranged husband relating to their interactions out of the spotlight, and the lawyers are reportedly helping her to navigate those issues.

Although sources previously told Us Weekly on Thursday that Quinn plans to file for divorce from Richard, her first priority is making sure that he can't come near her or baby Christian.

Ultimately, the sources allege that she wants a permanent restraining order against Richard, though she will likely have to start with a temporary restraining order.

The insiders add that Quinn's relationship with Richard feels irreversibly damaged now, so a reconciliation between the spouses is unlikely.

Her emergency restraining order against her estranged husband only lasts for seven days, so she will need to have filed for a temporary restraining order by Wednesday in order to keep a legal barrier protecting herself and her child.

Quinn's terrifying saga spilled into the spotlight on Tuesday, when Richard was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, with his bond set at $30,000.

LAPD spokesman Jeff Lee told DailyMail.com: 'A victim and a suspect were involved in a domestic dispute when the suspect threw a bag at the victim with a glass bottle inside of it. It missed the victim, but that object struck a child.

The reality star reportedly plans to file for divorce, but her first priority is protecting herself and her child; seen in June 2023 in L

Sources said Quinn's marriage to Richard was tempestuous, and she allegedly plans to reveal more details of their interactions behind closed doors to secure a restraining order

'The suspect was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon.'

Christian was subsequently taken in an ambulance to a hospital for treatment with his mother by his side, according to TMZ.

Richard was seen in a bathrobe on Tuesday afternoon as he was led into a squad car by police after his arrest.

He subsequently made bail, but was shockingly arrested a second time on Wednesday after he violated the emergency restraining police had offered Quinn by visiting their home.

Although Quinn and her son were reportedly not at the home at the time, Police arrived with guns drawn and did a search of the home before taking Richard into custody.

An eyewitness on the scene alleged that police could be heard shouting for Richard to 'Come out with your hands up.'

LA County Sheriff's records indicate that Richard posted another $30,000 bond and was released hours after the second arrest.

A source told Page Six that Quinn and her son were staying at a separate 'safe' location, and that someone else had allegedly called the police on Richard.

Quinn and Richard were originally introduced via a mutual friend, and the tech founder proposed to her on Valentine's Day of 2019.

Quinn's son Christian was reportedly taken to a hospital in an ambulance, with her riding by his side; pictured in 2021 in Santa Monica

Quinn got engaged on Valentine's Day 2019, and she married Richard in December of that year in a gothic-tinged winter wonderlandstyle ceremony; still from Selling Sunset

The couple were wed in December of that year in a ceremony with a winter wonderland theme featuring an unusual gothic twist, including Quinn's black wedding dress.

They welcomed their son Christian in 2021.

The blond beauty is best known as a breakout star on Netflix's reality series Selling Sunset, in which she sold luxury homes for the Oppenheim Group for five seasons.

Her final season on the show featured allegations that she had tried to bribe a client.
Christina Ricci claimed her ex-husband James Heerdegen did not help 'at all' when their son Freddie was a baby.

While appearing on Shannen Doherty's Let's Be Clear podcast, the Yellowjackets star reflected on the challenges of being a first-time mom with little help from her then-spouse, who she split from in 2020 after seven years of marriage.

'My husband at the time wouldn't help me with anything at all,' she recalled. 'I had to do all the night stuff and get up and go to work for 14 hours and be on camera.'

The actress went on to explain how attempting to sleep train her firstborn, now nine, was nearly impossible.

Christina Ricci claimed her ex-husband James Heerdegen did not help 'at all' when their son Freddie was a baby; seen 2019

'So, the only way to do that was to lie with him, and he would breastfeed whenever he wanted and sleep with me. I had to have him in my bed with me just to get enough sleep and be able to work the next day.",' the Emmy winner told listeners.

The performer continued: 'I was basically doing it all on my own, so that part is tough, but you just get through it.'

At the time, she said she would keep reminding herself that the situation was 'temporary' and that she just needed to 'keep going.'

Heerdegen's representative did not return People's request for comment.

Ricci and Heerdegen have had a rocky time co-parenting Freddie since ending their marriage.

In June 2023, she accused him of preventing her from taking son on a short trip with her to New York City.

According to People, she requested an emergency hearing to discuss the matter with a judge after reportedly changing his mind on letting their son fly with her to the Big Apple, where she was apparently filming a project.

In her filing, Ricci described her ex as 'vindictive' and 'retaliatory.'

The couple wed in 2013, but Ricci ultimately filed for divorce in 2020. Their strained relationship was even more tense in January 2021, when the actress obtained a domestic violence restraining order against her ex-husband.

While appearing on Shannen Doherty's Let's Be Clear podcast, the Yellowjackets star reflected on the challenges of being a first-time mom with little help from her then-spouse, who she split from in 2020 after seven years of marriage

'My husband at the time wouldn't help me with anything at all,' she recalled. 'I had to do all the night stuff and get up and go to work for 14 hours and be on camera' (seen in 2019)

In a court filing at the time, she claimed she had suffered 'severe physical and emotional abuse' at Heerdegen's hands.

Even worse, she said that 'many of these acts of abuse' were observed by their young son.

At the time, Heerdegen's attorney said in a statement that his client 'unequivocally denies all allegations of abuse made by Ms. Ricci as having occurred in 2020.'

Ricci was apparently still willing to make visitation work between Freddie and his father despite her abuse allegations and restraining order.

The actress went on to explain how attempting to sleep train her firstborn, now nine, was nearly impossible, so she would lay down with her little boy and 'breastfeed whenever he wanted' and sleep by her side

The Casper star also shares her baby girl with husband Mark Hampton

In April of 2021, she and Heerdegen arrived at a custody agreement during an earlier production she was working on in which her son would be allowed to travel with her to Vancouver.

Heerdegen continued to spend time in person with his son as part of his 'regular monitored visitation time,' while his ex-wife paid for his travel and accommodations to visit Canada as well.

In addition to his in-person time, Heerdegen still received three weekly 15-minute video calls with Freddie.

In August 2021, Ricci revealed she was expecting her a baby girl with hairstylist Mark Hampton, who she wed in October 2021.

Elsewhere during her interview on Doherty's podcast Let's Be Clear, the actress said her time away filming Yellowjackets negatively affected her dynamic with their daughter, Cleopatra, two.

'Last year I was commuting back and forth to Vancouver for Yellowjackets. She didn't know me. We had no bond. So that was very upsetting,' she revealed.

The entertainer shared a photo of her then-newborn, husband, and son on Christmas day in 2021

Ricci's husband shared a photo of his wife with their daughter shortly after she gave birth

The mother-of-two continued, 'My kids do not like it when I travel. When I'm away, I try to take my son with me as much as I can.'

And she explained, 'If you're a series regular, you have to pay for everything, so I can't... every time I go up and down, I can't pay for four people, four flights, you know, and the rooms that you would need and all...it's just too expensive to travel with everybody all the time.'

The actress emphasized that she does her best to balance her two biggest responsibilities.

'I try to get back as often as I can,' the Wednesday star noted. 'I think, really, the thing that I learned, especially with my son, is mixing him into my work life.

'Why can't he come for the weekend to a convention and see what it's like?'
Marcia Hines has taken to social media to share a heartfelt post expressing her gratitude to health care workers after her shock collapse on Sunday night.

The Australian Idol judge, 70, was rushed to hospital after she collapsed on the set of the reality series and injured her head in the fall.

Hines's Instagram post reassured fans she was on the mend after the terrifying incident, which she says was caused by her diabetes.

'There's no place like home. What an action-packed week. I've experienced so much care and love at Blacktown Hospital,' she began.

'I'm so grateful to all of the hospital staff. From the tireless nurses to the wonderful administration staff.'

Marcia Hines (pictured) has taken to social media to share a heartfelt post expressing her gratitude to health care workers, after her shock collapse on Sunday night

She then thanked those most important to her, including her family, friends and fellow Australian Idol judges for helping her through this difficult time.

'Thank you also to Kyle Sandilands, Amy Shark and all the team at Australian for your love. You're always there when I need you most.'

Many of Marcia's followers quickly took to the comment section to express their relief she was making a recovery.

The Australian Idol judge, 70, was rushed to hospital after she collapsed on the set of the reality series and injured her head in the fall. Hines took to Instagram to reassure fans she was on the mend after the terrifying incident caused by her diabetes

'Stay well Marcia, you're such a treasure!' one fan gushed and a second person added: 'Glad to hear you are feeling much better.'

It comes after Hines collapsed in her dressing room ahead of part one of the Australian Idol final on Sunday night.

Following the incident, Hines shared a post to her Instagram page and revealed she was planning to return to Monday night's final show, which she did.

'I'm very sorry that I'm not there with you all tonight. It's been a big few days of work and I was feeling a little unwell. I'm resting up now so I can be back with you all tomorrow night,' she wrote.

A source told Daily Mail Australia that Hines stayed in hospital overnight for observation and was released the following morning.

She did not appear on Australian Idol on Sunday and Guy Sebastian filled in for her as a judge.

Host Ricki-Lee Coulter told viewers that Hines would be absent at the start of Sunday's episode.
Martha Reeves has secured a permanent spot in Hollywood more than 60 years after finding fame in the Detroit music scene.

The Grammy and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, 82, celebrated her hard-earned star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Wednesday with a ceremony attended by Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and Motown founder Berry Gordy.

She put on a dazzling display in a strapless white dress covered in metallic gold art deco print.

Reeves accessorized with layers of gold jewelry and a matching wide-brimmed hat shaped like flower petals.

After her former manager nominated her, Reeves successfully crowd-funded more than $50,000 just in time for her star ceremony.

Martha Reeves celebrated her hard-earned star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Wednesday

The ceremony was attended by Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and other Motown stars

Lead vocalist of Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, the group found success with Motown in the '60s, releasing such hits as 'Quicksand', 'Nowhere to Run' and 'Dancing in the Street'

After her former manager nominated her, Reeves successfully crowd-funded more than $50,000 just in time for her star ceremony

She took to Facebook last week to thank her fans for their support. 'I want to thank everyone who donated and helped spread the word. It has meant so much,' Reeves wrote.

'A special thank you to my manager Chris Roe at Chris Roe Management for making it all happen,' she added. 'Today is a beautiful day.'

Lead vocalist of Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, the group found success with Motown in the '60s, releasing such hits as 'Quicksand', 'Nowhere to Run' and 'Dancing in the Street'.

Gordy, 94, who signed the group to his Motown imprint in 1962, gave a sweet speech referencing their hits.

'She's raw, and she's real. She may be sassy, but always classy. And when she did her thing, there was truly nowhere to run, nowhere to hide,' said Gordy.

He continued, 'She and the Vandellas set off a heatwave felt around the world, and everybody was dancing in the street. I'm talking about the one and only Martha Reeves.'

Robinson, 84, credited Reeves as 'one of our profound acts,' noting that her work 'help to put Motown on the map all over the world.'

'I'm so happy and so proud to be here today and to see another one of our Motown family members have a star on the Walk of Fame,' he said.

'We had so many wonderful, talented people there, and many of them are on this walk. And Martha, it's time you were here,' added Robinson. 'I wouldn't have missed this for the world.'

Reeves took to Facebook last week to thank her fans for their support. 'It has meant so much,' she wrote

Reeves put on a dazzling display in a strapless white dress covered in metallic gold art deco print. She accessorized with layers of gold jewelry and a matching wide-brimmed hat shaped like flower petals

Reeves was honored onstage in tributes from Wonder, Robinson and Motown founder Berry Gordy

Gordy, 94, who signed the group to his Motown imprint in 1962, gave a sweet speech referencing their hits

Robinson, 84, credited Reeves as 'one of our profound acts,' noting that her work 'help to put Motown on the map all over the world'

Wonder, 73, concluded the speeches with 'a serious moment' as he recounted how he met Reeves

Martha was also accompanied by her son Eric Reeves at Wednesday's Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony

Wonder, 73, concluded the speeches with 'a serious moment' as he recounted how he met Reeves.

'We are living in serious times throughout the world, as were we then back in the 60s when I was 11 years old, coming to Motown,' he explained. 'And one of the first people that I was able to meet was Martha.

'Martha would listen to the songs that were halfway written that I wrote. She would keep me out of eating too much candy from the candy machine,' added Wonder. 'And she would encourage me to continue to write and to study.

Wonder continued, 'She motivated me in singing and just being kind to people.'

Reeves' entire Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony is available to stream on YouTube.
Professor T (ITV1)

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Why does Frances de la Tour not have a damehood? It can't be that she was a Leftie firebrand in her youth  waving the red flag for the Workers' Revolutionary Party.

So was Dame Vanessa Redgrave, and that didn't stop her collecting her gong from the palace. In fact, swathes of theatreland were members of the WRP in the 1970s. It was practically obligatory.

Perhaps Miss DLT prefers to turn down honours. But that can't prevent her from being anointed a bona fide national treasure. She sparkles like a well-cut diamond in the setting of Professor T (ITV1), as the self-absorbed mother of Ben Miller's prissy criminologist, Jasper Tempest.

She can turn a short scene into the centrepiece of the show, just as she did half a century ago in Rising Damp against Leonard Rossiter, that most formidable of comic actors.

Why does Frances de la Tour (pictured, in Season 2 of Professor T in 2022) not have a damehood? It can't be that she was a Leftie firebrand in her youth  waving the red flag for the Workers' Revolutionary Party

She sparkles like a well-cut diamond in the setting of Professor T (ITV1), as the self-absorbed mother of Ben Miller's prissy criminologist, Jasper Tempest (pictured)

As Professor T returned, she was painting a series of 12 portraits of her Chihuahua Kafka in costume, for a zodiac calendar  with a mane as Leo, with horns as Capricorn, and so on.

Special Guest of the Night: Would you trust Graham Norton to kill someone for you? wondered Diane Morgan as Mandy (BBC2). 'Reckon he'd make a right pig's ear of it,' she decided. So guess who played a scowling hitman in the closing frames? Advertisement

Later, in a brief vignette with Juliet Stevenson, she picked up a book by Czech novelist Franz Kafka and compared her pooch to the cover photo. 'Same eyes, same ears,' she declared. 'Could almost make you believe in reincarnation.' Miss Stevenson is a remarkable actress and experienced scene-stealer herself, but she knew better than to try and compete with that.

There's plenty of room for showing off in Professor T because the central character is so understated. He's fastidious, incisive, sarcastic, anxious, pedantic and insolent  but somehow much less than the sum of his parts.

The problem is that Miller plays him too well, as an introvert who detests attention. Before long, we want to look at anyone but him.

Walking or standing still, he keeps his hands clamped to his sides, avoiding eye contact. This quickly wore thin when he was helping police solve murders from his study at Cambridge University, so the writers have found a way to prise him out of his comfort zone  by sending him to prison.

His crime is a spurious one: firing a gun in a police station and refusing to explain himself (to avoid incriminating an ex-girlfriend, played by Juliet Aubrey). But the effect is exactly what's needed. Now, instead of hiding from the world, he's forced to confront it.

Later, in a brief vignette with Juliet Stevenson (pictured, left), De La Tour picked up a book by Czech novelist Franz Kafka and compared her pooch to the cover photo

Prison is the perfect place for a man who makes his living studying criminals. Soon, he's helping an inmate on a murder charge, and identifying the real killer during visiting hour

The other cons intimidate and bully him  and that's before they find out he's a police adviser. Worse, he's assigned to laundry duties and, with his phobia of germs, he has to handle the dirty clothes with makeshift tongs.

Prison is the perfect place for a man who makes his living studying criminals. Soon, he's helping an inmate on a murder charge, and identifying the real killer during visiting hour.

The seesawing between detectives on the outside interviewing suspects, and the hero on the inside solving crimes, needs better balance. But a spell in the nick will do Professor T a power of good.
After their latest Oscar-winning collab, Emma Stone and Poor Things director Yorgos Lanthimos are back with another must-see film.

The actress - who scooped the Best Actress Academy Award. appears alongside Margaret Qualley, Hunter Schafer, Jesse Plemons, Willem Dafoe, Joe Alwyn, Hong Chau and Mamoudou Athie in the first teaser for Kinds of Kindness.

'This is it... the moment of truth,' Stone, 35, narrates the opening of the 46-second clip as she peels out of a parking lot in a purple Dodge Challenger.

No other dialogue is given until the end of the teaser when the car pulls into a motel lot. 'Isn't it wonderful?' she asks.

The rest of the promo is filled with glimpses of scenes set to Eurythmics' 'Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)'.

Emma Stone and director Yorgos Lanthimos are back together for the first teaser of Kinds of Kindness

After peeling out in a Dodge Challenger, one shot of Stone shows her standing near the car and busting a move in rust-colored pantsuit

Another shot shows the Academy Award winner, 35, sitting under moody lighting in a short off-the-shoulder dress

One shot of Stone shows her standing near the car and busting a move in rust-colored pantsuit.

A wheelchair-ridden woman sits nearby, suggesting a recent escape (or kidnapping) from a hospital.

Another shot shows the Academy Award winner sitting under moody lighting in a short off-the-shoulder dress.

She also appears to lock lips with someone who appears to be Dafoe, 68, in an extreme closeup.

Dafoe serves a range of emotions in the clips from tortured and pensive to his signature maniacal laughter.

Qualley, 29, and Plemons, 35, channel an eccentrically wealthy couple as she slaps him in one scene.

The teaser also shows a mustachioed Plemons behind the wheel of another car before pushing someone out of a wheelchair in another hospital parking structure.

Qualley appears in another black-and-white shot, showing off some of her own moves.

Schafer, 25, raises her hands in the air as if attempting to communicate with an otherworldly entity.

Willem Dafoe serves a range of emotions in the clips from tortured and pensive to his signature maniacal laughter

Margaret Qualley and Jesse Plemons channel an eccentrically wealthy couple as she slaps him in one scene

The teaser also shows a mustachioed Plemons, 35, behind the wheel of another car before pushing someone out of a wheelchair in another hospital parking structure

Hong Chau drags her tongue across a half-naked woman's stomach in another shot

Hunter Schafer raises her hands in the air as if attempting to communicate with an otherworldly entity

Alwyn, 33, clutches his hands together while appearing to have a mental breakdown in a parking lot.

Chau, 44, drags her tongue across a half-naked woman's stomach in another shot.

The rest of the teaser is filled with curious images like a boat speeding across a beautiful ocean view, a body being dragged across a hallway, and a dog drinking from a straw on a beach.

The movie is described as 'triptych fable, following a man without choice who tries to take control of his own life; a policeman who is alarmed that his wife who was missing-at-sea has returned and seems a different person; and a woman determined to find a specific someone with a special ability, who is destined to become a prodigious spiritual leader,' according to Variety.

Stone also appears to lock lips with someone who appears to be Dafoe, 68, in an extreme closeup

Qualley, 29, appears in another black-and-white shot, showing off some of her own moves

Joe Alwyn clutches his hands together while appearing to have a mental breakdown in a parking lot

Mamoudou Athie also stars in the movie, which premieres June 21 in select theaters

Stone recently won her second Oscar for Best Actress after working with Lanthimos, 50, on Poor Things, which also earned him a nomination for Best Director

Stone and Mark Ruffalo were both nominated for their roles in Poor Things

Stone recently won her second Oscar for Best Actress after working with Lanthimos, 50, on Poor Things, which also earned him a nomination for Best Director.

The pair previously worked together on 2018's The Favourite, for which they were also nominated for Best Supporting Actress and Best Director, respectively.

Stone and Lanthimos have also been in talks to team up a fourth time for a remake of the South Korean film Save the Green Planet.

Kinds of Kindness premieres June 21 in select theaters.
Aquarion Water Company's Easton Lake Reservoir Treatment Plant in Easton, Conn. on Wednesday, June 6, 2018. Hearst Connecticut Media file photo

A Connecticut Superior Court Judge has dismissed nine of the 12 counts in Aquarion Water Co.'s appeal of a March 2023 decision by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority that rejected the company's request for a rate increase.

Judge Matthew Budzik issued his 34-page ruling this week. Although Aquarion officials can still appeal Budzik's ruling, the decision makes it less likely the company will achieve an outcome that is significantly more favorable financially.

Peter Fazekas, an Aquarion spokesman, said Tuesday that company officials "are reviewing the decision at this time.," but declined to comment on whether officials at the utility would seek to appeal the judge's ruling.

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PURA approved a plan to reduce Aquarion customers' water rates by about $67 per year. The March 2023 ruling was in response to a rate hike request increase the company had sought that could have increased rates by 27 percent over three years.

About a month after the PURA ruling, Budzik ordered a stay on the implementation of PURA's decision to reduce the water rates of Aquarion customers.

Budzik's ruling in the appeal said in part that PURA "possesses broad regulatory authority and equally broad discretion in setting rates."

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"The court concludes the total effect of PURA's rate decision is no confiscatory and that Aquarion has failed to meet its heavy burden of demonstrating otherwise," Budzik's ruling said in part.

The judge also rejected Aquarion's claim that PURA's ruling failed to take into account the financial risks the company faces.

"As an initial matter, the court observes that Aquarion and its investors face little practical economic risk," Budzik's decision said in part. "Aquarion sells a product that is essential to life, and it does so in a monopoly environment. There is no risk that Aquarion's customers will cease needing or purchasing water and, because of its regulatory monopoly, no risk that Aquarion's market position will be undercut by a competitor."

Two of the three counts that Budzik returned to PURA for further consideration involve determining how much of Aquarion's state and federal taxes could be included in the rate case calculation as well as the denial of certain legal and other types of expenses associated with developing the rate case.

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Connecticut Attorney General William Tong said Tuesday the court's decision "is a resounding affirmation of PURAs well-reasoned, pro-consumer rejection of Aquarions unsubstantiated multi-million-dollar rate hike demand."

"Aquarion sought excessive, unsupported profits, unnecessary ratepayer-supported bonuses, and unwarranted reimbursement for incomplete infrastructure projects," Tong said in a written statement. "The company failed to meet its burden both before PURA and the court.

Connecticut Consumer Counsel Claire Coleman praised the court's ruling, which she said was "consistent with long-standing principles of regulatory law."

"I am pleased to see the Superior Courts decision affirm that consumers deserve thorough examination of utilities requests for rate increases in order to prevent consumers from overpaying, Coleman said in a written statement. I am proud of my teams work during the rate case and the appeal, where our scrutiny and legal analysis helped lead to important cost reductions and the proper application of important ratemaking legal principles to the benefit of Aquarion Water Companys customers, as well as all utility consumers in Connecticut.

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State Sen. Norm Needleman, D-Essex, said the court's decision "is a major victory for PURA and for those who want thorough vetting of our state's utilities, especially in rate requests."

"The regulatory authority's methodology and decision-making in response to Aquarion's filing was upheld, with PURA only having to further explain parts of a few choices it made," Needleman said. "I'm especially proud of this decision because it reflects the intention of work done by the legislature in the last several years to hold utilities accountable."

Budzik's ruling comes a little more than a month after Aquarion's corporate parent, Eversource Energy, announced it is exploring the sale of the water company.




Paris Hilton looked sensational as she was spotted leaving Jackson Lee's fundraiser at The Little Door in Los Angels on Tuesday.

The heiress, 43, showed off her incredible figure in a shimmering semi-sheer maxi dress, with a black slip dress underneath.

She elevated her height in black stilettos, while carrying a matching handbag and wearing oversized sunglasses - despite it being night time.

Paris' long blonde tresses were styled up in a ponytail and she opted for a bronzed makeup palette which accentuated her natural features.

It comes after Paris revealed she wants her kids to 'grow up in a world that's kind.'

Paris Hilton looked sensational as she was spotted leaving Jackson Lee's fundraiser at The Little Door in Los Angels on Tuesday

The heiress, 43, showed off her incredible figure in a shimmering semi-sheer maxi dress, with a black slip dress underneath

The Simple Life alum hopes her son Phoenix, one, and daughter London, four months, aren't as hooked on social media as she has been.

During Propper Daley's fourth annual A Day of Unreasonable Conversation in Los Angeles , Paris  who slayed a chic goth look this week  and the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy hosted a panel called To Suffer Alone.

'I just want my children just to feel just so loved and seen and want to be that next generation of someone that brings positivity to the world and just to have big hearts and big loving,' Hilton shared.

'That's something that's really important to me,' she emphasized.

'And also to live a world outside of social media and being on their phone all the time,' Paris added.

'So I feel that's really taken a lot from children. Kids are not going outside anymore and playing as much because everyone's just so busy on their phones.

'So hopefully my kids won't be as addicted to social media as I am,' the heiress explained.

Paris shares her kids with her husband Carter Reum , 43.

The couple has known each other since they were young and married on November 11, 2021.

Paris turned 43 on February 17th but celebrated it a month later over the weekend of March 16.

She elevated her height in black stilettos, while carrying a matching handbag and wearing oversized sunglasses - despite it being night time

Paris signed autographs for fans outside the venue

The theme of her bash was 'Sliving'  which was trademarked by the star in 2020 and is a combination of 'slaying' and 'living'  and there was a massive sign of the word hanging on the pink wall.

Her epic birthday bash featured a star-studded guest list including the likes of Heidi Klum , Megan Thee Stallion , Demi Lovato , Tiffany Haddish , Sia , Selma Blair and Bebe Rexha.

Perhaps the most fun Paris had during the entire bash was splashing around in a massive white ball pit with Heidi and Megan.

The trio of ladies laid in the balls, danced and even shared a few smooches while posing for the cameras.

After the party, the mother of Phoenix, one, and London, four months, shared some quality time with her children and husband.

'Nothing better than days spent with my family at home ,' she captioned the set of images.
Simon Cowell has added a new member to his ever growing four-legged family, just months after he brought home a new German Shepherd called Pebbles.

The music mogul, 64, who is known for his love of dogs, currently lives with his fiancee Lauren Silverman, their son Eric, 10, and five dogs.

And now the family have a new resident, a pet Chihuahua, who Simon showed off in a slew of adorable Instagram snaps on Tuesday.

Simon captioned to post: 'Ive just fallen in love,' but didn't reveal the pooch's name yet.

The Chihuahua is Simon's sixth dog, after already being a proud dog owner to German Shepard Pebbles Yorkshire terriers Squiddly and Diddly as well as his late mum's dog Freddy and Daisy, who he adopted in Barbados.

Simon Cowell has added a new member to his ever growing four-legged family

The music mogul, 64, who is known for his love of dogs, currently lives with his fiancee Lauren Silverman, their son Eric, 10, and five dogs. And now the family have a new resident, a pet Chihuahua, who Simon showed off in a slew of adorable Instagram snaps on Tuesday

Simon captioned to post: 'Ive just fallen in love,' but didn't reveal the pooch's name yet

In April 2022 Simon revealed he will leave a 'substantial amount' to various dogs shelters in his last will and testament , which is believed to be around 20million.

The star decided to draw up his last wishes after suffering a traumatic bike accident which left him with an injured arm.

The music mogul described the process as 'one of the most depressing things I've ever done, and one of the hardest', as he revealed that 'everything he cares about' will be covered in the will.

Talking of the morbid experience with The Sun, Simon shared: 'Unfortunately, you have to  and that day, when it comes, is like, 'Christ, I've now got to sit and talk about my death for the next few hours' It was dreadful. But the fact that I've done it now has given me peace of mind.'

During the chat, he also revealed that he will leave a 'substantial amount', to dog charities - including Dogs Trust, K9 in Barbados, and London's Battersea Dogs Home.

Simon rescued Daisy when he came across the abandoned dog on one of his trips to Barbados back in 2018.

Simon hosts annual auctions from homeless dogs on the Caribbean island and fell in love with Daisy.

She was found abandoned along with her two puppies, but thanks to charity K9 Puppies, of which Simon is a patron, they were all nursed back to health.

The Chihuahua is Simon's sixth dog, after already being a proud dog owner to German Shepard Pebbles Yorkshire terriers Squiddly and Diddly as well as his late mum's dog Freddy and Daisy, who he adopted in Barbados (not pictured)

In April 2022 Simon revealed he will leave a 'substantial amount' to various dogs shelters in his last will and testament , which is believed to be around 20million

Simon also previously revealed at the time that he hopes to clone his pet pooches, so strong is his love for them

Simon also revealed in the past that he hopes to clone his pet pooches, so strong is his love for them.

He revealed he plans to spend 180,000 to have them cloned by harvesting their genes through a South Korean company.

The star told The Sun on Sunday: 'I am 100 per cent cloning the dogs, all of them.Weve thoroughly looked into it, got all the details and I can prove to you Im going to clone them. There is documentation.

'I am doing it because I cannot bear the thought of them not being around.'

The dogs travel with Simon regularly as he works in both Los Angeles and London, as well as an annual trip to the Caribbean, and on the flight the dogs get their own squeaky toys to play with, and bespoke jum-bones.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Food Processing underscores the importance of mechanisation

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Food Processing insists on the urgent need to increase the mechanisation of farms for small and marginal farmers in India. Their recent report highlights that wholesome mechanisation is not only essential but crucial to overcoming the multifaceted challenges faced by the farming sector, which plays a pivotal role in the countrys economy.

Despite Indias accounts for only 2.4 per cent of the worlds geographical area and 4 per cent of its water resources, its farming sector supports 17 per cent of the global population and 15 per cent of the livestock, contributing 20 per cent to the nations GDP and creating employability to 65 per cent population. Therefore, there is a dire need to enhance productivity and profitability through increased mechanisation among small and marginal farmers and in low mechanisation areas to revitalise Indian agriculture and boosting farmers incomes requires moving beyond traditional practices to advanced mechanisation.

Status of Mechanisation:

Our countrys agriculture mechanisation level is below 40 per cent lower than developing nations such as China 60 per cent and Brazil 75 per cent. It is worth noting that agrarian states like Punjab and Haryana had led the green revolution having mechanisation levels around 40 per cent, while in other areas such as the north-eastern states of India, it is negligible.

The Committee has pointed out that 86 per cent of the total land holdings are in small and marginal size groups, which require special efforts for their mechanization. They have emphasized that small farmers face significant difficulties in purchasing machinery unless machines appropriate for small holdings are made available or farmland consolidation takes place. It is expected to take another 25 years to reach the level of 75 per cent mechanization.

A Catalyst for Growth: The imperative role of farm mechanisation is instrumental in reducing cultivation costs and enhancing productivity through efficient resource utilisation.

Experts and committees have highlighted that agricultural mechanisation in India contributes to making judicious and cost-effective use of inputs, leading to savings in seeds by 15-20 per cent, in fertilisers, an improvement in germination rate by 7-25 per cent, savings in time by 20-30 per cent, in weed by 20-40 per cent, in labour by 20-30 per cent, an increase in cropping intensity by 5-20 per cent, and an increase in crop yield by 13-23 per cent. This also helps in the conservation of natural resources like water, soil nutrients, etc.

Farm Machinery Landscape:

The agriculture and allied sectors like livestock farming demand continuous modernization. The diversity in farming, whether large-scale or small-scale and rural labour scarcity necessitates a broad spectrum of agricultural equipment. From basic tractors to sophisticated combine harvesters, the sector requires a nuanced understanding of the equipments specific applications and requirements, spanning feeding equipment, poultry tools, corral systems for cattle and more attributed to the Indian agricultural machinery market is estimated to be worth a whopping US$16.73 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach an impressive US$25.15 billion by 2029.

Steps to Propel Mechanisation:

First, Establishment of the Directorate of Agricultural Engineering: The parliamentary Committee recommends that to monitor and implement the Governments mechanisation policy effectively and efficiently, a Directorate of Agricultural Engineering is needed in each state. Currently, it only exists in Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, but the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) is working towards establishing it in all states. Agricultural Engineers are also needed at Block and District Levels as there is no engineering manpower to demonstrate, train, help in repairs/maintenance and guide farmers at their doorstep.

Second, Farm Machinery Banks: Since farm machinery is expensive, small farmers find it difficult to purchase it. To address this issue, the Government has introduced custom hiring centres and farm machinery banks in almost all states, where farmers can share machines. However, the benefits of these schemes have not reached the gram panchayat level.

Third, Full-fledged Scheme: In September 2022, the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation was merged with Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, which diluted its mandate. Therefore, the Government should establish a full-fledged Agriculture mechanism scheme to speed up the process.

Fourth, Funding for R&D: The budget allocation for the Research and Development (R&D) of the Farm Mechanisation Scheme has been declining steadily over the past four years, with a significant decrease of 30 per cent from 2019-20 to 2023-24.

Fifth, Tax and Duty Incentives: To promote low horsepower tractors, which are mostly used by small and marginal farmers and orchard growers, the tractor and its components attract 12 per cent GST. This means a small tractor costing about Rs 5-7 lakh leads the farmer to pay Rs 60-84 thousand as GST. GST can be reduced to nil or 5 per cent to make it more affordable for small farmers. Tax and duty incentives are also essential to support manufacturing units in low-mechanisation areas for sustainable growth.

In conclusion we can only agree with the Standing Committee.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee stresses the urgent need for enhanced farm mechanisation to support Indias small and marginal farmers. Despite its significant agricultural contribution, Indias mechanisation levels lag behind global counterparts, hindering productivity and profitability.

With 86 per cent of land holdings in small and marginal categories, targeted efforts are crucial. Mechanisation not only reduces costs but also enhances productivity and conserves resources. To drive mechanisation, the committee recommends establishing agricultural engineering directorates, expanding access to farm machinery through banks, revitalising existing schemes, boosting funding for research and development, and offering tax incentives. These measures are essential for revitalising Indian agriculture, increasing farmers incomes, and ensuring sustainable sectoral growth. By embracing comprehensive mechanisation, India can overcome multifaceted agricultural challenges and secure its position as a global agricultural leader while empowering its farming community.

-The Author is Vice-Chairman of Sonalika ITL Group, Vice-Chairman (Cabinet Minister rank) of the Punjab Economic Policy and Planning Board, Chairman of ASSOCHAM Northern Region Development Council and President, of Tractor and Mechanisation Association (TMA). Views expressed are personal.
The arrest of a Chief Minister presents a formidable challenge not only to the leader but also to the principles of democratic governance

The recent arrest of Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, has thrust into the spotlight a complex web of legal, constitutional and ethical considerations. As pundits dissect the ramifications of this unprecedented event, one question looms large: should an arrested Chief Minister resign? This inquiry delves deep into the heart of democratic governance, probing the delicate balance between legal accountability and executive authority.

At the heart of this debate lies the presumption of innocence, a fundamental tenet of any democratic legal system. Yet, the recent legislative amendments in 2019, which shifted the burden of proof onto the accused, have muddied the waters of legal discourse. Amidst these changes, media attention has swirled around the fate of Kejriwals tenure, overshadowing discussions on the intricacies of his legal case and the broader issues of electoral integrity.

Historical precedents offer some insight into this conundrum. The resignations of Lalu Prasad and Hemant Soren in Bihar and Jharkhand, respectively, following legal proceedings, illustrate the complex interplay between executive authority and legal accountability. However, the absence of explicit constitutional provisions or precedents regarding the resignation of an arrested Chief Minister necessitates a nuanced examination of parliamentary conventions and legal principles.

Central to this discussion is the concept of holding office at the pleasure of the appointing authority. In the case of NCT Delhi, where the Chief Minister is appointed by the President, Kejriwals refusal to resign may jeopardize the pleasure of the President, potentially leading to his removal from office. However, the possibility of legal reprieve through bail proceedings could mitigate the necessity for resignation, albeit temporarily. Unlike the immunity enjoyed by the President and the Governor, a Chief Minister is not shielded from criminal proceedings during their term in office. This underscores the imperative for ethical conduct and accountability in public office, even in the face of legal challenges. The constitutional mechanisms available, including the appointment of a new Chief Minister by the President or the suspension of legislative functions, underscore the flexibility of our democratic framework in addressing such exigencies.

Nevertheless, the overarching principle of constitutional propriety and democratic norms suggests that an arrested Chief Minister should consider resigning from office. While innocence, until proven guilty, remains a cornerstone of jurisprudence, the spectre of prolonged legal battles and the potential disruption to governance warrant careful consideration. The recent legislative amendments empowering law enforcement agencies necessitate vigilant judicial oversight to safeguard fundamental liberties and uphold the rule of law. In conclusion, the resignation of an arrested Chief Minister reflects not only a commitment to democratic values but also a recognition of the practical challenges inherent in governing amidst legal controversies. As constitutional custodians, both the judiciary and the executive must uphold the principles of equality, liberty, and justice in such sensitive issues.

In the broader context of democratic governance, the arrest of a Chief Minister poses profound questions about the interplay between legal accountability and executive authority. While the presumption of innocence must be upheld, the practical realities of governance demand a delicate balancing act. Ultimately, the decision to resign in the face of legal challenges is not merely a matter of individual choice but a reflection of our collective commitment to the rule of law and democratic principles.

(The author is a former Additional Secretary of Lok Sabha and a practising advocate, views expressed are personal)
US President Joe Biden hailed the prompt action of the 22-member Indian crew of the cargo ship that struck and demolished a key bridge for saving lives by alerting local authorities before the dramatic collision.

Baltimore's 2.6 km-long Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after the container ship manned entirely by an Indian crew collided with one of its supports Tuesday early morning, possibly killing six people and bringing one of the most important ports in the northeast US to a grinding halt.

Officials said the Singapore-flagged ship 'Dali' suffered a "power issue" and issued a distress call moments before the crash.

In remarks at the White House, Biden praised the ship's crew, saying the alert they sent before the collision saved lives.

Personnel on board the ship were able to alert the Maryland Department of Transportation that they had lost control of their vesselAs a result, local authorities were able to close the bridge to traffic before the bridge was struck, which undoubtedly saved lives, Biden said.

He stressed that everything so far indicates that this was a terrible accident.

"At this time, we have no other indication -- no other reason to believe there was any intentional act here, Biden said.

According to an American Pilots Association officer, the ship suffered a total blackout before the collision with the bridge, CNN reported.

Just minutes before the bridge, there was a total blackout on the ship, meaning that the ship lost engine power and electrical power; it was a complete blackout, said Clay Diamond, executive director and general counsel of the American Pilots Association.

Diamond said that the pilot did everything that he could have done to slow the ship down and keep it from drifting to the right, toward the bridge.

The pilot was also the one who contacted the pilot dispatch office to shut down traffic to the bridge, said Diamond, who has been in close contact with the Association of Maryland Pilots over what transpired on the cargo ship in the moments leading up to the crash.

Those were all the appropriate steps, but it happened so quickly and with so little lead time ... Neither one of those manoeuvres was enough, Diamond said.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore also told reporters that the cargo ship crew alerted authorities about a power issue before the vessel collided with the bridge. This mayday call enabled workers to stop more vehicular traffic from coming onto the bridge.

We can confirm that the crew notified authorities of a power issue, Moore said.

We do know that the investigation is currently going on. But I have to say I'm thankful for the folks who, once the warning came up and once notification came up that there was a mayday, was literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge. These people are heroes; they saved lives last night, he said.

We are thankful that between the mayday and the collapse, we had officials who were able to begin to stop the flow of traffic so more cars were not up on the bridge, he said.

The vessel, owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd, was outbound from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Ship management company Synergy Marine Group confirmed in a statement that the crew on Dali is All Indian, 22 in total.

It further said that all crew members, including the two pilots, have been accounted for, and there are no reports of any injuries.

Two persons were rescued from the water after the bridge's collapse, while six construction workers working on the bridge to repair potholes remained missing.

Some of the individuals missing are Mexican nationals, according to Rafael Laveaga, Chief of the Consular Section of Mexico's Embassy in Washington, while two of the missing construction workers were from Guatemala, the country's foreign ministry said on Tuesday.

After an entire day of search and rescue operations, the US Coast Guard suspended operations since it was unlikely the remaining workers would be found alive.
A staggering 83 per cent of unemployed individuals are youth, while only 17.5 per cent of rural youth in India are engaged in regular work, according to a joint report by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Institute for Human Development (IHD).

This revelation has provided Opposition parties with ample ammunition to criticise the performance of the BJP-led Central Government amid the ongoing electoral battle.

The study India Employment Report 2024, released by Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran, paints grim job scenario, stating that youth employment and underemployment increased between 2000 and 2019 but declined during the pandemic years with educated youths experiencing much higher levels of unemployment in the country during the period. Thus, indicating lack of quality employment opportunities, especially among those who have achieved higher education.

Opposition parties, particularly the Congress, have seized upon the reports observations to attack the Government over the issue of joblessness, accusing it of neglecting the youths future.

While Indias large young workforce is a demographic dividend, the report noted that they dont appear to have the skills to deliver  with 75 per cent of youth unable to send emails with attachments, 60 per cent unable to copy and paste files, and 90 per cent unable to put a mathematical formula into a spreadsheet, it said.

Further, the share of people employed in industry and manufacturing has remained the same since 2012 at 26 per cent of the total workforce. The percentage of youth involved in economic activities decreased from 42 per cent in 2012 to 37 per cent by 2022.

Also, the number of the educated, possessing at least secondary education, among the unemployed doubled from 35.2 per cent in 2000 to 66 per cent in 2022, said the report reflecting poorly on the Governments economic policies, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by Indias labour market.

The reports revelation of stagnation in industry and manufacturing employment since 2012 points to the dismal growth in key sectors of the economy, as per the report which has come as an embarrassment for the Modi Government which is positioning itself as a job provider to the youth, particularly during the election season.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge urged people to remember before voting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to provide 20 crore jobs in 10 years but snatched more than 12 crore jobs from the youth.

Kharge listed the guarantees of the Congress under Yuva Nyay, such as filling up nearly 30 lakh vacant Central Government posts. He also highlighted the right to apprenticeship law for degree/diploma holders, which will guarantee them apprenticeship with an assistance of Rs 1 lakh per year.

Notably, labour from agriculture primarily found opportunities in the construction and services sectors. Despite the growth in these sectors, the overall employment scenario remained complex, indicating a mismatch between job creation and the skill sets of the workforce.

There are widespread livelihood insecurities too, the report added, with only a small percentage being covered with social protection measures, precisely in the non-agriculture, organised sector.

Worse, there has been a rise in contractualisation, with only a small percentage of regular workers covered by long-term contracts, the report said.

The country is also grappling with the substantial gender gap in the labour market, with low rates of female labour force participation. The unemployment challenge among young women, especially those who are highly educated, is enormous, the report said.

Talking about the growing social inequalities, the report said despite affirmative action and targeted policies, the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes still lag in terms of access to better jobs.

Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes have greater participation in work due to economic necessity but engaged more in low-paid temporary casual wage work and informal employment, it said. Despite improvement in educational attainment among all groups, the hierarchy within social groups persists, the report added.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Wednesday categorically said the Delhi Government will not be run from jail. His reply comes in the backdrop of statements by AAP leaders that Kejriwal will continue as Chief Minister even if he is behind bars.

Replying to a query at the media conclave, the Lieutenant Governor said, I can assure the people of Delhi that the Government will not be run from jail.

In an apparent attack on the AAP dispensation, Saxena said, As kids, we all have heard the proverb lohe ke chane chabana (to face great difficulty). After coming to Delhi I actually realised the meaning of this proverb. In this city to get any work done it feels like lohe ke chane chabana. Whatever you try to do, there are some forces that put their entire strength into stopping that work. And if you are able to successfully complete that work, then these forces try to take credit.

Clearing the clutter around the noises made by BJP regarding the Presidents rule, senior AAP leader and Minister in the Kejriwal Cabinet Atishi unequivocally stated that no Constitutional provision bars governance from jail, citing the law of the land ie Representation of the People Act, 1951 and GNCTD Act.

Atishi said the law of the land is very clear. The Presidents rule can only be imposed when there is no other choice. Issue of Article 356 has gone to the Supreme Court multiple times and it has repeatedly ruled that President rule can only be implemented only when there is no other choice left for the governance of that state. So if today the Presidents rule is imposed, then it is very clear that it is a political vendetta. So as you can see that it is used by institutions after institutions to finish off the Opposition, she said.

Responding to Saxenas statement, Atishi said if Presidents Rule is imposed in Delhi in the aftermath of Kejriwals arrest, it would be a clear case of political vendetta.

She cited The Representation of the People Act that disqualifies a lawmaker if s/he is convicted.

What is the constitutional provision he is drawing on? The law of the country is very clear. You have the GNCTD Act which is very clear that you cannot be the Chief Minister if you do not enjoy the majority of the House. These conditions do not apply. So, under what conditions will the Presidents rule be imposed? she said.

The Delhi Minister said it as a political conspiracy of the BJP-led Central Government to undermine democratically elected Opposition Governments using the ED, suggesting that Opposition Chief Ministers could be coerced into resigning or face arrest under draconian sections of the PMLA.

Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21 in the Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case and subsequently remanded in the agencys custody till March 28 by a court here.

AAP leaders on several occasions ruled out Kejriwals resignation, insisting that he will run his Government from inside the jail.

Atishi said the arrest of Kejriwal will benefit the AAP electorally in the Lok Sabha polls as the party is getting a lot of sympathy.

Atishi termed the arrest of Kejriwal by the ED in an excise policy-linked money laundering case as an attack on democracy that was never seen before in the democratic history of the country.

The good thing is that it has benefited us electorally, she said, adding before the arrest of Kejriwal, the result of Lok Sabha polls was a forgone conclusion as people were of the view that the BJP was going to win.

But after Kejriwals arrest, the level of public sympathy has gone up for us. There is just one sentiment that the BJP has gone one step too far. So, I would feel it has benefitted us electorally, Atishi said.
Taking strong objection to remarks by a US official regarding Arvind Kejriwals arrest, India on Wednesday summoned a senior US diplomat and lodged a strong protest against Washingtons remarks. On March 23, German diplomat was summoned by New Delhi over German Foreign Ministrys remark on Kejrwial.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) officials summoned Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Gloria Berbena of US at its office in South Block here. The meeting lasted for more than 30 minutes.

Reports had said a US State Department official had said Washington encouraged a fair, transparent and timely legal process for Kejriwal.

The MEA later in a statement said, We take strong objection to the remarks of the Spokesperson of the US State Department about certain legal proceedings in India.

In diplomacy, States are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. This responsibility is even more so in case of fellow democracies.

It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents, the statement said.

Indias legal processes are based on an independent judiciary which is committed to objective and timely outcomes, the MEA said in the statement while underlining that casting aspersions on that is unwarranted.
The U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. held oral arguments Tuesday in a case that could determine the availability of the abortion drug mifepristone in many states, included those that have taken steps to ensure abortion access. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

HARTFORD  The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments Tuesday in a federal case involving the abortion drug mifepristone, setting the stage for a ruling that could have far-reaching implications even in states that have fought to preserve abortion access.

The case, FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, is one of the most significant to involve questions of abortion rights since the Supreme Court began allowing states to outlaw abortions in 2022.

In Connecticut, abortion remains legal until the 24th week of pregnancy, and later in cases where the mothers health is at risk. Around two-thirds of those abortions are performed using mifepristone, a drug that has been on the market for more than two decades.

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The Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine is the group of anti-abortion doctors currently suing the Food and Drug Administration, claiming that the agency erred in its decisions to expand access to mifepristone in 2016 and 2021, and that those approvals should be revoked nationwide.

Proponents of abortion access argue that the groups aims are politically motivated, and that mifepristone has a lengthy and safe record when being used as recommended.

Connecticuts Democratic attorney general, William Tong, joined an amicus brief earlier this year urging the court to reject the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicines arguments, as did Gov. Ned Lamont, members of the states Congressional delegation and state lawmakers.

During a press conference Tuesday, Tong expressed optimism that the Supreme Court would ultimately side with the FDA, while also underscoring the potential for the lawsuit and other similar cases to upend abortion access nationally.

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Today, if you need an abortion, if you need reproductive health care, if you need to see a doctor or a nurse you can do that, Tong said. I believe that its going to stay that way because were going to fight tooth and nail, and were not going to give up. But thats not inconsistent with us being on the brink.

Heres what else you need to know about the drug, the case and its potential impact on Connecticut:

What is mifepristone?

Mifepristone is a drug that was first approved by the FDA in 2000 (under the brand Mifeprex) as the first part of a two-dose regimen used to end a pregnancy through seven weeks of gestation. This timeframe was later expanded to 10 weeks by the FDA in 2016, and three years later, approval was given for a generic version of the drug.

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In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the FDA removed its in-person dispensing requirement for mifepristone, allowing the drug to be accessed via telemedicine.

According to the FDA, there have been 32 deaths associated with the use of mifepristone since it first went on the market, out of about 5.9 million users. That means the fatality rate associated with the drug (but not necessarily caused by its use) is significantly lower than that of giving birth.

It is not the same as Plan B or other drugs that prevent conception.

Why is it at the center of this case?

Both as a result of the FDAs decision to expand access to mifepristone and the U.S. Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade,the use of abortion pills has skyrocketed nationally in recent years.

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According to the Guttmacher Institute, a group that supports abortion rights, medication abortions accounted for 63 percent of all abortions performed in the U.S last year.

The Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine sued the FDA in 2022, a few months after the U.S. Supreme Court issued its ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization, opening the door for new restrictions on abortions.

A U.S. District Court Judge in Texas sided with the group early last year, ordering a reversal of the FDAs original, 23-year-old approval of mifepristone. That ruling was later narrowed by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals to apply only to the agencys subsequent expansions of the drugs approval, before the Supreme Court stepped in to ensure wider access to the drug while it considered the subsequent appeals.

What could the Supreme Court decide?

On Tuesday, a majority of the justices appeared skeptical that the doctors bringing the lawsuit had standing to show they were harmed by the FDAs decision to approve mifepristone, according to multiple news outlets such as the New York Times.

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That analysis was shared by both Tong and his predecessor and fellow Democrat, U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal. The strong likelihood is that this case will go away, Blumenthal said.

Even if the justices do side with the doctors in the Texas case, Tong and others pointed to another ruling by a federal judge in Washington state they said could continue to guarantee access to mifepristone in states like Connecticut that have sued to keep the FDAs current regulatory structure.

Whether or not the Supreme Court addresses one or both cases will not be known until the justices release their final decision, likely some time in June.

How will its decision affect Connecticut?

While Connecticut lawmakers have taken numerous steps to preserve abortion access, any decision to reverse the FDAs approval of mifepristone would likely limit the drugs availability within the state.

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It would prevent people in Connecticut from accessing, basically, the preferred form abortion here, University of Connecticut School of Law Professor Carleen Zubrzycki told CT Insider in January. You would still be able to get an abortion, including other kinds of medication abortion, but thats not what is the current, preferred standard of care.

Gretchen Raffa, an organizer for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, said Tuesday that mifepristone case  as well as another legal battle over abortions performed in hospital emergency rooms  was a sign that abortion access will continue to be litigated for the foreseeable future.

We know that this case and broader attacks on abortion access and sexual, reproductive healthcare are ongoing, and it is clear that overturning Roe v. Wade was never the end for anti-abortion lawmakers and their allies, Raffa said.

In a separate move Tuesday, lawmakers were due to vote on a proposed amendment to the states Constitution that would expand the definition of illegal, sex-based discrimination to include sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or the decision to receive an abortion.

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Earlier in the week, abortion opponents held a rally in Hartford opposing that and other measures that they argued would expand access to abortion even further in Connecticut.

In testimony submitted to lawmakers, Americans United For Life Policy Counsel Danielle Pimentel said that the proposed amendment deceptively contrives constitutional protection for an unfettered right to terminating a pregnancy i.e., abortion.

Meanwhile other states, including New York and California, have begun stockpiling reserves of mifepristone in the event that the Supreme Court sides with opponents of the drug.

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An IndiGo aircraft grazed the wings of an Air India Express plane at the Kolkata airport on Wednesday, leaving wings of both aircraft damaged, officials said.

The IndiGo flight was headed to Darbhanga, while the Air India Express plane was scheduled to leave for Chennai.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation promptly de-rostered the two pilots and ordered an enquiry into the freak accident, DGCA sources said adding both the plane had returned to the bay.

The wingtip of a taxiing aircraft of another airline grazed one of our aircraft, which was stationary and awaiting clearance to enter the runway at Kolkata for a scheduled operation to Chennai, an Air India Express spokesperson said in a statement adding an investigation was on.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) said in a statement that the wingtip vortices of both planes were badly damaged. The incident happened at about 11 am, sources said, adding both the flights were delayed.

IndiGo authorities said it was a minor graze between a taxiing IndiGo aircraft and that of another carrier, adding the aircraft returned to bay for inspection and necessary action, as per protocol. An incident report will be submitted to DGCA in due course, the IndiGo authorities said.
As the Lok Sabha polls draw near, the Congress finds itself struggling to secure seat sharing with key alliances. Internal discord brews as party leaders depart, and tensions escalate in Karnataka as some MLAs threaten to quit over ticket allocation issues, casting shadows over the partys prospects.

The grand old party on Wednesday took offence to its partners Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena in Maharashtra and Lalu Prasad-led RJD in Bihar where the INDIA Bloc members have announced their respective Lok Sabha contestants.

Aurangabad, Begusarai, Katihar, Purnia, and Siwan in Bihar are the seats where disagreements have kept the Mahagathbandhan allies from reaching a seat-sharing arrangement. Sources said the RJD has distributed tickets to its candidates, leaving the Congress red-faced.

In Maharashtra, the Congress has objected to the Shiv Sena (UBT) announcing its candidates for the Bhiwandi, Mumbai South Central and Sangli Lok Sabha seats, saying MVA partners must stick to coalition dharma.

While Congress Legislature Party leader Balasaheb Thorat urged Sena (UBT) to reconsider its decision, his party colleague Sanjay Nirupam adopted a more belligerent stand, attacking Congress leadership for letting the Uddhav Thackeray-led outfit grab most of the seats in Mumbai.

Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) constituents Congress, Sena (UBT) and NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) have been holding seat-sharing discussions for the 48 constituencies in Maharashtra, where the Lok Sabha polls will be held in five phases starting April 19.

Amid the talks, Sena (UBT) earlier in the day released its first list of 17 candidates for the upcoming elections and said it will contest a total of 22 seats in the State. Thorat said his partys State unit has apprised the central leadership of the developments.

The Congress also lamented that Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) leader Prakash Ambedkar had announced a separate list of candidates.

Nirupam, who is keen to contest the Mumbai North West parliamentary constituency, said the party leadership hasnt got in touch with him in the last fortnight. The leadership isnt bothered that injustice is being done to its leaders and workers. Shiv Sena (UBT) is making us bend and we are doing it, he said.

In Bihar, while RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav rushed to Delhi to stitch together the alliance after days of hiccups in the seat-sharing issue, former Lok Sabha MP Pappu Yadav, who merged his party with the Congress last week, asserted that he will not budge over his claim to the Purnea seat, which was contested by RJD. The latter had expressed uneasiness over Pappu joining the Congress.

Tejashwi and Congress leaders held talks on Tuesday to sort out the differences that have emerged between the two allies over the seat-sharing arrangements in Bihar. The much-awaited meeting took place at senior Congress leader Mukul Wasniks official residence after a week of tussle. Wasnik is the convener of his partys alliance committee. Bihar Congress chief Akhilesh Prasad Singh and AICC in-charge Mohan Prakash were also present.

Further, a day after the rebel and later suspended legislators joined the BJP in Himachal Pradesh and now all are candidates in the Assembly polls, in Karnataka five Congress legislators threatened to resign if senior party leader and Minister K H Muniyappas son-in-law Chikka Peddanna was given a ticket to contest from Kolar in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, bringing into open the divisions in the party.
Election campaigning in India, hitherto confined to pages in periodicals, billboards, larger than life size posters and TV advertisements has taken a new turn with the publication of a comic book/graphic novel.

While his opponents have gone overboard ridiculing him for the slogan Modi ki guarantee, a person who has studied the progress made by the Narendra Modi Government has come out with a graphic novel 101 Reasons Why I Will Vote for Modi. This is the first attempt of its kind of making use of a comic book for spreading a political message.

Graphic novels can be very powerful means to communicate political ideas to the masses. This book is written from a voters point of view, whether s/he will vote for Modi back to power in 2024, Shantanu Gupta told The Pioneer.

The comic book that has hit the shelves across the country is not something to be laughed at. It is reminiscences, reflections and the change the country has seen in the last ten years. The seriousness of the book lies in the studies undertaken by author Gupta, seasoned journalist and author of two path-breaking books The Monk Who Became Chief Minister and The Monk who Transformed Uttar Pradesh.

The books were based on the life of Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and how he changed UP Waala Bhaiya abuse to a badge of honour.

Those who read the two books had no doubt about the outcome of the UP Legislative Assembly Election held in 2022 because of Guptas eyewitness account. He found out that UP has been liberated from the shackles of BIMARU States as entrepreneurs and investors were queuing up to make big time investments in the State.

The first five years of Yogi rule saw major infrastructure projects get going and UP emerging as a developed State under the watchful eyes of the Monk.

Gupta is experimenting with an innovation on the decade long Modi Governments performance. What makes the graphic novel unique and distinct is that the protagonist remains off the pages most of the time. It is the beneficiaries who are villagers, residents of small and medium sized towns, students, youth and the aged who explain why they would vote for Modi in the 2024 Lok Sabha election.

Our leaders are guided by the dictum all is fair in war and love. Guptas book is different in all respects as it is focused on the major achievements of the Modi Government that provided more than four crore houses to the homeless under the PM Awas Yojana, more than 11 crore toilets which have come as a boon to the villagers.

Women who had to depend on open fields to attend to natures call and who were always under the threat of snakes, scorpions and goons are a relieved lot because of the national mission of building toilets.

Kalavati of Jaipura, a village in UP and Rama didi whose harrowing experience of walking miles to fetch woods from the forest to cook the meals literally make readers cry. Cooking three meals a day by burning wood was equivalent to smoking more than 300 cigarettes, says Kalavati who is one of the 10 crore beneficiaries of Ujjwala Yojana which helped them to own LPG stoves and cylinders.

This is just two or three schemes that saw bearing fruits in the last decade. There is a lot more. Each section of the Indian society, rural, urban, metro residents, youngsters, women of all ages and students have benefited thanks to the foolproof programmes that took wings.

India has changed and changed for the better.

Interestingly, the challengers are tied up with just one agenda - to defeat the Government. For that they resort to all kinds of games. The other day saw a national spokesperson of the grand old party abusing and humiliating a venerated film personality who is contesting the polls.

The only option before the challengers is to provide the electorate with 102 reasons why one should vote for them.
A high voltage political drama continued on Wednesday as Delhi BJP workers and supporters protested outside the Delhi Assembly. The BJP workers and supporters protested, demanding the resignation of Kejriwal while the AAP leaders held a protest outside the Delhi Assembly, seeking immediate release of their leader. AAP's legal cell also held a protest in the court's premises against the arrest of Kejriwal by the ED.

Earlier, a BJP delegation, led by their Delhi unit president Virendra Sachdeva, met Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora on Wednesday to demand a probe into the letters being sent by Kejriwal to his ministers from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody. Delhi BJP Media Head Praveen Shankar Kapoor, Spokesperson and Advocate Amit Tiwari, Media Relations Head Vikram Mittal, Office Secretary Brijesh Rai and Advocate Shoumendu Mukherjee were also present during the meeting.

After the Assembly proceedings were adjourned, BJP leaders, led by the party's Delhi unit president Virendra Sachdeva, staged a counter-protest outside the House, calling for Kejriwal's resignation. Delhi BJP workers and supporters held a demonstration outside the entrance of the Assembly premises around 12 noon with a group of about 100 party workers from Mayur Vihar, along with the party's Mahila Morcha and Yuva Morcha office-bearers, demanding the resignation of Kejriwal.

Dressed in black, the BJP workers gathered at the Vidhan Sabha entrance gate and started raising slogans. Sachdeva himself scaled over the gate shouting slogans. Police did not allow them to enter the Assembly premises. The security personnel locked the main gate and subsequently, detained the protesters.

Our demand is that because Arvind Kejriwal is corrupt and has looted Delhi, he should resign. AAP is shielding the thieves. A person in custody is maintaining his position as a CM. How is this ethical? AAP should think this through, and Kejriwal should resign.

They would not have needed to release letters from jail if they had served the people in the past 9 years. Arvind Kejriwal is missing his palace and the facilities in jail, he said.

Sachdeva said the people of Delhi are frustrated watching the illegal political melodrama of the Kejriwal government and claimed that they will teach a lesson to the AAP-Congress alliance in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls by totally rejecting them.

He said two ministers of the Delhi government are already in jail and claimed that Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj might also land in prison soon for allegedly issuing fake letters.

Before the commencement of the Assembly proceedings, the AAP MLAs also staged a protest outside the House and raised slogans demanding Kejriwal's immediate release from the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) custody.Party leaders, including Atishi and Bharadwaj, were part of the protest. They were dressed in yellow T-shirts with slogans like Main Bhi Kejriwal and Modi ka Sabse Bada Dar Kejriwal written on those.
Setting the stage for a four-cornered contest in Punjab, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday made a significant announcement, declaring its decision to contest all 13 seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections independently. The move effectively put to rest all speculations surrounding the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)s potential return to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), signaling a clear divergence in electoral strategies.

According to sources familiar with the matter, BJP national president JP Nadda engaged in a last-minute conversation with SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal on Monday night, making a final attempt to forge an alliance. However, negotiations faltered as the Akalis insisted on addressing specific demands, including the relocation of Sikh prisoners such as Amritpal Singh from Assam to Punjab, citing difficulties faced by their families in meeting them.

The primary factor driving the decision for the two parties not to form an alliance seems to stem from disparities in their core ideological principles. SADs focus on panthic issues and its efforts to connect with the Sikh community appear incongruent with BJP's nationalist stance. Additionally, unlike the alliance formed in 1996, which endured for over two decades, the Sukhbir Singh Badal-led Akali Dal has laid out specific conditions for any potential future collaboration, which does not suit BJPs national agenda.

Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar, in a video message he shared on the social media, affirmed the party's decision to contest solo in Punjab, emphasizing that the move was guided by a collective vision for the regions future. The party would not forge any alliance in Punjab, he said.

Jakhar highlighted BJPs track record under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, particularly its efforts in areas like the Kartarpur corridor and grain procurement from farmers, underscoring the partys commitment to public welfare.

Akali Dal, after its core committee meeting this Friday, had strongly indicated its intention to contest independently in the upcoming elections. Notably, SAD was BJPs oldest ally and first one to support Narendra Modis candidature as a prime ministerial candidate.

The breakdown in talks between BJP and SAD occurred primarily due to the formers inability to meet SADs demands unconditionally. SADs requisites included the withdrawal of cases against farmers involved in protests against the agricultural reform laws, along with legal guarantee on minimum support prices (MSP) for various crops.

Reacting to the development, SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal reiterated the party's steadfast commitment to its principles and vision for Punjab. He emphasized that SAD prioritizes principles over politics, positioning itself as a movement dedicated to Punjab and the Khalsa Panth. He stressed that while other parties prioritize vote politics, SAD remains focused on putting Punjab's interests first.

Meanwhile, amidst the evolving political landscape, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress are also gearing up for the electoral battle in Punjab, albeit separately, despite being members of the pan-India opposition bloc  Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). Notably, both AAP and Congress are contesting in coalition in neighboring states like Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Gujarat.

Now as the BJP throws its hat into the ring for all 13 seats, the battleground for the Lok Sabha elections in Punjab is shaping up for a fierce contest. The failure of alliance talks underscored the divergent priorities between the two parties, while highlighting the evolving political landscape in Punjab. Traditionally, SADs political stronghold has revolved around Sikh panth and agrarian interests. However, recent setbacks, including the erosion of its core base in the 2017 and 2022 assembly polls and the fallout from the farm bills passed by its alliance partner BJP in 2020, have reshaped the state's political dynamics.

SAD has found itself in an existential quandary following its performance in 2022 state assembly elections, where it could only secure three seats while the BJP won just one. The fallout from the farmers agitation took a toll on SADs traditional support base among farmers and Sikh voters, prompting a reassessment of its strategy.

The BJP's decision to contest independently mirrored its strategy in Haryana, where it severed ties with Dushyant Chautalas Jannayak Janata Party (JJP). By doing so, the BJP aimed to focus on consolidating Punjabi and OBC votes, previously overshadowed by SADs dominance.

In a similar vein, with SAD contesting separately, it will vie for Sikh voters, especially Jat Sikhs and farmers, who are also being courted by the AAP and Congress.

BJPs move to contest alone signaled its ambition to emerge from SADs shadow and expand its electoral footprint in the state. Recent electoral contests have shown promising signs for the BJP, with increased visibility in rural areas and direct voter engagement. In the 2023 Jalandhar Lok Sabha bypoll, all major parties contested independently. Despite AAPs victory, BJP garnered a notable 15 percent votes, closely trailing SADs 17 percent  an outcome that sparked elation among BJP leaders, as it marked a significant shift. For the first time, party flags were prominently displayed in rural areas which shows BJPs growing presence there, and shows that the party was able to directly engage with the voters without the need for assistance from SAD, said a senior BJJP leader.

Also, BJPs outreach efforts towards the Sikh community, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have strengthened its position. Initiatives like Veer Bal Diwas, Kartarpur Corridor, doing away with the black list, celebrating the birth anniversaries of Sikh Gurus, among others have resonated positively among Sikhs, bolstering BJPs appeal.

As the political landscape shifts in Punjab, the breakup of the BJP-SAD alliance raises concerns of polarization. However, the BJPs strategic maneuvers aimed at consolidating its Sikh base independently, challenging traditional electoral dynamics.

The implications of the failed alliance talks are significant. With each party pursuing its own agenda, the electoral space in Punjab is expected to become more crowded. While AAP and Congress aim to capitalize on the division of votes, the SAD hopes to regain its lost ground and challenge the AAP government. Conversely, the BJP, buoyed by Modi's popularity, seeks to leverage its national appeal to secure urban support.

In surprising move, Cong MP Bittu joins BJP

Punjabs political arena reverberated with yet another seismic tremor as Congress Lok Sabha sitting MP from Ludhiana Ravneet Singh Bittu on Tuesday made a surprising leap across the party lines to join the BJP. Bittus unexpected defection marked another significant setback for the Congress party in Punjab, following a string of high-profile exits including former Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh, his sitting MP wife Preneet Kaur, Sunil Jakhar, Manpreet Badal, among others.

Bittus move dealt a substantial blow to the Congress, further exacerbating the partys existing challenges in Punjab. His decision to switch camps comes on the heels of his earlier calls for action against former Punjab Congress president Navjot Singh Sidhu, citing internal discord within the party as a major contributing factor to its defeat in the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections.

Three-time MP, Bittu is the latest in a string of prominent Congress leaders to jump ship, and the party's second sitting MP after Preneet, the Patiala MP.

Expressing his disillusionment with the Congress leadership, Bittu highlighted the partys internal discord as a major factor contributing to its defeat in the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections. His criticism extended to the Congress alliance with AAP, which he opposed vehemently, citing divergent ideologies and alleged misconduct by AAP.

Bittus political lineage added weight to his defection, being the grandson of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh, whose legacy is deeply entrenched in the states political history. His decision to join the BJP underscored a significant realignment of political affiliations in the State.

Bittu, speaking at a press conference in New Delhi after joining the BJP, expressed admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, praising their commitment to Punjabs development. He lauded the BJPs efforts in fostering peace and stability in the region, particularly in light of Punjabs tumultuous history with terrorism.

The development assumes significance as it comes the same day the BJP announced to go solo in Punjab, setting the stage for Bittu to seek re-election as BJP candidate this time.
Besides the target of clean sweep in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has set an ambitious target to induct 1 lakh workers of Congress in Madhya Pradesh, including disgruntled influential leaders, in its fold to achieve a clean sweep of all 29 seats, according to a senior leader.

The strategy is to cripple Congress at the grassroots level and simultaneously ensure defections of senior leaders who are unhappy in the party organisation, as per political observers and BJP insiders.

In the 2019 elections, the BJP virtually white-washed Congress in the central state by winning 28 seats, except Chhindwara constituency, a bastion of Kamal Nath which Congress managed to save.

On the other hand, MP Congress chief Jitu Patwari said deserters have no future.

The BJP has set a specific target to induct 50,000 Congress workers from Chhindwara and asked its district unit to achieve this goal, another saffron party leader said.

I think around 50,000 workers, including influential leaders unhappy with Congress, have already joined the BJP,  claimed MP BJP chief VD Sharma.

He said that the defection of big leaders of Congress is only talked about, even though Congress is seeing the exodus at district, tehsil, block and booth levels across the state.

Sharma, seeking a second term in Lok Sabha from Khajuraho seat, claimed at least 1 lakh workers of Congress across the state are going to cross over to BJP before the Lok Sabha polls.

On March 15, former Congress MLA Antar Singh Darbar and his colleague from Indore, Pankaj Sanghvi and others joined the BJP.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav claimed, Modi Ka Parivar was growing at the fastest pace in Madhya Pradesh.

Madhya Pradesh has been the political arena of BJP doyens like former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Jan Sangh stalwarts like Vijaya Raje Scindia and Kusha Bhau Thakre.

A BJP leader claimed it was Union Home Minister Amit Shah who asked party leaders and booth workers at a closed-door meeting held in Gwalior to fetch disgruntled leaders and workers of Congress.

Shah asked the attendees at the meeting to induct local influential leaders of Congress and leave the induction of senior leaders from the opposition camp to BJPs Central leadership, he claimed.

According to him, Shah told BJP leaders not to worry about the influx of Congress leaders and assured them that their seniority wouldnt be affected and they would enjoy a special place and respect in the party.

The BJP has set a target to induct 50,000 Congress workers from Chhindwara and asked its district unit to achieve this goal, BJP nominee from the seat, Vivek Sahu claimed.

Last week, Deepak Saxena, a close aide of Kamal Nath resigned from Congress and is expected to join BJP.

Notably, the exodus from Congress to the BJP accelerated in Chhindwara after Kamal Nath and his MP son Nakul Nath went to Delhi last month amid speculation about a switchover to BJP.

The Nath father-son duo have dismissed as media creation the reports of their potential switch.

Sahu stated that more than 5,000 Congressmen from Chhindwara have already defected to the BJP.

I left the Congress due to Nakul Nath. I was not getting along well with him. He does not like senior party leaders, said former Chhindwara city Congress president Nand Kishore Suryavanshi, who joined BJP on March 21.

According to political observers, the BJP is aiming to deprive Congress of its foot soldiers who play a crucial role during elections.

Former state Home Minister Narottam Mishra, a Brahmin leader, has been entrusted to lead the partys team looking for potential Congress turncoats, they said.
Delhi BJP MLA Vijender Gupta voiced concerns over Constitutional impropriety and disrespect for democratic institutions by Aam Admi Party (AAP) over reading of Delhi Chief Minister message by his wife. Sunita Kejriwal, wife of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was observed delivering a statement from Kejriwal in a setting that strikingly resembled the official backdrop used by the Chief Minister for addressing media and public announcements.

This setting included the prominent display of Indias national flag on either side of her, a symbolism reserved for official communications from the Chief Ministers office.

The visual arrangement led to perceptions of an unofficial assumption of the voice and authority of the Chief Minister during his absence.

Expressing his concerns, Gupta pointed out what he considers a blatant misuse of the Chief Ministers office and a disregard for the sanctity of Constitutional positions. Gupta said the act is indicative of disrespect not only for the office itself but also for the foundational principles of the Indian Constitution.

He labeled this incident as an embodiment of Parivarwaad (nepotism) and dictatorial tendencies within AAPs culture. Furthermore, Gupta criticised the reluctance of Kejriwal to step down from his position amid serious allegations and his ongoing arrest, portraying it as indicative of a desire to cling to power at the cost of ethical governance and accountability
The Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory to the states regarding measures to prevent fires in hospitals during the summer months and instructions have been given to ensure that they conduct thorough inspection of all the hospitals within their jurisdiction.

Mainly eliminate the discrepancy in power load capacity. Apart from this, also check and confirm the fire extinguisher and its NOC etc., so that fire incidents can be prevented.

As temperatures rise during the summer months, fires become a greater threat in hospitals. To prevent this, the Union Health Ministry and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have issued a joint advisory for all states/UTs. After which Hamidia management has taken the decision to remove illegal parking of vehicles in Hamidia Hospital so that in case of fire, the fire brigade etc. do not have to face problems.

Superintendent of Hamidia Hospital, Dr. Sunit Tandon said that apart from the parking around Hamidia, vehicles are also parked in the remaining area. New space will be generated for unauthorised vehicles in Hamidia.

Superintendent of Hamidia Hospital, Dr. Sunit Tandon said that the area behind Block-2 of Hamidia is rough. Apart from the parking around Hamidia, vehicles are also parked in the remaining area. If a fire situation arises, it will be difficult for the fire brigade to come, hence this area will be leveled and an empty area will be created. Due to which, when the vehicles parked nearby will move from here, this area will also become free.

Actually, there is a multilevel parking in the hospital premises, but it is at the main gate of the hospital. The new buildings of the hospital are quite far from here. Such patients and their families along with doctors and staff do not park their vehicles in multilevel parking. Due to this, vehicles get parked here and there and a traffic jam is created in the hospital.

Conduct comprehensive fire safety audit/on-site inspection of all hospitals to assess fire safety compliance. Ensure that fire fighting systems, including fire alarms, fire smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, fire hydrants and fire lifts, are in place and fully functioning.

Hospitals should conduct regular electrical load audits, especially when new equipment is added or locations are converted to ICUs. Any identified discrepancies should be corrected immediately.

Hospitals should obtain valid fire no objection certificates (NOC) from state fire departments. The fire extinguisher and its NOC etc. should be checked. Additionally, hospitals should regularly inspect fire-fighting equipment such as fire extinguishers, hydrants and alarms. Checking expiry dates of fire extinguishers

Establish a maintenance schedule for all safety equipment. This includes monthly testing of fire extinguishers, quarterly testing of fire alarms and hydrants as per relevant Indian standards.

In areas with oxygen tanks or piped oxygen, enforce strict smoking policies and no smoking at heat sources. Signage should clearly mark these areas, and staff should be trained on the risks associated with high oxygen environments.

Make sure fire smoke detectors and fire alarms are installed in all hospital areas, especially patient rooms, hallways, and common areas. Test these systems regularly as scheduled and replace batteries annually or as needed.

Identify and audit non-combustible or fire-resistant alternatives, especially this material.

Make sure and inspect every single detail about electrical conduits.

Regularly review and update the hospital infrastructure to comply with the latest fire safety standards as outlined in the National Building Code 2016. This includes ensuring proper ventilation systems, fire resistant doors and emergency lighting in corridors and staircases.
Amid protests by the BJP and the AAP in the national Capital on Tuesday, commuters travelling in the city faced inconvenience while being met with traffic jams in Central Delhi during their journey.

Taking note of the situation in light of the protests organised by the political parties, Delhi Police beefed up security in several parts of the national Capital, including around the PMs residence and Central Delhi, by deploying its personnel and those of paramilitary forces.

Due to protests, nine hours after shutting the gates of Lok Kalyan Marg metro station due to security reasons, the DMRC has opened its entry and exit on Tuesday evening, officials said. Two gates of Patel Chowk and Central Secretariat metro station were also opened, they said.

Ahead of the AAPs protest against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals arrest, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Tuesday closed the entry and exit gates at Lok Kalyan Marg metro station. The entry and exit have been restricted at Patel Chowk and Central Secretariat metro stations.

Due to security reasons, entry/exit at Lok Kalyan Marg Metro station, Gate no 3 of Patel Chowk Metro Station and Gate no 5 of Central Secretariat Metro station will remain closed till further notice, the DMRC said in a post on X.

Later in the evening, the DMRC said that the entry and exit gates at Lok Kalyan Marg metro station have been opened. Gate number 3 of Patel Chowk metro station and gate number 5 of Central Secretariat metro station are now open for entry and exit.

There is no permission to hold protest. We also got information that protesters will gather at the Patel Chowk Metro station. In view of that, we have stepped up security arrangements, Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar said.

Security personnel in anti-riot gear were seen around the metro stations and at other places in the Central Delhi area. Kumar said if protesters try to reach and gather, they will be detained immediately.

We have proper security arrangements at the prime ministers residence and the Patel Chowk metro station. Protest will not be allowed. As common people also travel by the metro, they will not be disturbed. We have deployed staff to identify protesters and to detain them, the DCP said. Another senior police officer said that robust security arrangements have been made. We have installed layers of security to maintain law and order situation in the area.

Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure have been already imposed around the prime ministers residence, and no one will be allowed to protest there, the officer said. Traffic movement is likely to be affected in parts of New Delhi and Central Delhi due to the proposed gherao, an officer of the Delhi Traffic Police said. Diversions have also been put in place at seven points, police said.

Commuters must avoid Kemal Ataturk Marg, Safdarjung Road, Akbar Road and Teen Murti Marg on Tuesday in view of protest, the officer said. The security arrangements come after AAP leader and Delhi Minister Gopal Rai had announced plans of the party to gherao the prime ministers residence on Tuesday, as a form of protest against the arrest of Kejriwal by the ED.

The Delhi Traffic Police has made special arrangements, restricting the movement of vehicles in the national capitals central part.

In an advisory, it said traffic in central Delhi will be affected and parking of vehicles will not be allowed on Tughlaq Road, Safdarjung Road and Kemal Ataturk Marg.

Traffic will be affected in the New Delhi area due to a special law and order arrangement, the advisory stated.

To ensure smooth traffic management in the New Delhi area, no vehicle will be allowed to halt or park anywhere on Tughlak Road, Safdarjung Road and Kemal Ataturk Marg, general entry for the public will not be allowed, and vehicles found parked on the above roads shall be towed away and prosecuted for improper parking and disobedience of lawful instructions, it said.

If needed, traffic will be diverted from Aurobindo Chowk, Tughlaq Road, Samrat Hotel roundabout, Gymkhana Post Office roundabout, Teen Murti Haifa roundabout, Niti Marg roundabout and Kautilya Marg roundabout, it added.

The traffic police also requested commuters to avoid Kemal Ataturk Marg, Safdarjung Road, Akbar Road and Teen Murti Marg.
The Congress candidate from Tehri Lok Sabha constituency Jot Singh Gunsola filed his nomination papers on Tuesday. Large number of party workers and leaders were present on the occasion to extend their support to Gunsola.

Before filing his nomination papers, Gunsola arrived at the Congress headquarters in the morning with a large number of his supporters. He was greeted there by the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Karan Mahara, former chief minister Harish Rawat, his son and Congress candidate from Haridwar Lok Sabha Virendra Rawat, former PCC president Pritam Singh, former cabinet minister Hira Singh Rawat and other senior leaders of the party.

Addressing the party workers the PCC president Karan Mahara said that the people are eager to throw the BJP out of the power in the Lok Sabha elections. He appealed to the party workers to work dedicatedly at the ground level to ensure the victory of the Congress candidates. Former PCC president Pritam Singh said that the huge turnout in the nomination rally of Gunsola has proved that the people have made up their mind for change. The people are reeling under the anti people policies of the BJP government. Singh exuded confidence that the Congress candidates will secure victory in all the five Lok Sabha seats in the State. The Congress candidate from Tehri Gunsola expressed his gratitude to the party workers for coming in large numbers for his nomination.
China-Nauru cooperation in solar energy, port upgrading benefits local communities

Xinhua) 16:59, March 27, 2024

A man works at the construction site of redevelopment project of Aiwo Harbor in the Republic of Nauru, Jan. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Shen)

"I'm looking forward to seeing the projects I have personally participated in contribute more to the economic development of Nauru."

BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- The Pacific island nation Nauru signed up for the Belt and Road Initiative on Monday.

Since China and Nauru restored diplomatic ties earlier this year, bilateral win-win cooperation has rapidly expanded, yielding beneficial outcomes for local communities.

Nauru, with its beautiful tropical scenery and brilliant sunshine, is endearingly dubbed as a "pearl of the Pacific." In the southwestern part of the island nation, rows of blue photovoltaic panels are neatly arranged close to the azure sea, reflecting the dazzling tropical sunlight.

Once connected to the grid, the photovoltaic power generation and energy storage project being constructed by a Chinese company can meet the electricity demand of the entire island.

The project will reduce Nauru's dependence on diesel, bringing down the costs in electricity generation, improving local power supply and increase the share of renewable energy generation. Most importantly, it will significantly add to Nauru's environmental protection efforts, thereby achieving its sustainable development goals.

"Now Nauru's power generation mainly relies on diesel. That's expensive and would pollute the environment," said John Scott, who has been working for the project since 2022.

"There is a lot of sunshine here and it's good for solar power. I believe electricity supply here will be much better when the project is completed," Scott told Xinhua.

On top of building the power project, China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd is also undertaking the redevelopment of Nauru's largest harbor, Aiwo Harbor.

Starting in 2019, the project to be completed in 2025 includes harbor dredging and the construction of a new wharf, a desalination system and a container yard, among other facilities. And in September 2022, the new wharf was put into operation.

The modern seaport has also brought cutting-edge technologies and job opportunities to the island country, facilitating local economic growth by expanding its connectivity with the rest of the world.

Zhu Wei, the contractor's deputy manager and construction manager of the project, has witnessed the development of Aiwo Harbor over the past five years.

"In the past, the old wharf was too small for container ships to dock directly, and they only came once every two months. Now the containers can dock directly at the new wharf, and they come every month or even every 20 days," Zhu told Xinhua.

As the facilities are gradually taking shape, Zhu is proud of his efforts over the past years. "I'm looking forward to seeing the projects I have personally participated in contribute more to the economic development of Nauru."

The rationale behind Nauru's decision to resume diplomatic ties with China "of course is about Nauru's development strategy," Lionel Aingimea, Nauru's foreign minister, said when visiting China in January.

"No developing country wants to be left behind," he said.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Phil Rosenthal, host of Netflix's "Somebody Feed Phil," feeding himself in Rio de Janeiro. Netflix

Phil Rosenthal has his priorities set for his visit to New Haven next month.

"I'm very excited. I'm going to get some pizza," he said in a phone interview ahead of his April 12 stop at the Shubert Theatre, part of his "An Evening With Phil Rosenthal" tour.

Rosenthal is the host of Netflix's food and travel series "Somebody Feed Phil," on which he's described as a "global-trotting gourmand" who explores local cuisine and culture in cities around the world. The show's seventh season, which was released on March 1, took him to Mumbai, Kyoto, Dubai, Iceland, Scotland and Taipei, as well as U.S. stops in Washington D.C. and Orlando.

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The tour stop features a highlight reel of his travel experiences, Rosenthal said, and then during a moderated chat, he plans to tell "funny stories" about his 30 years in show business. The rest of the appearance will be a question and answer session with the audience.

Phil Rosenthal, host of Netflix's "Somebody Feed Phil," actually being fed in an eatery in Hawaii. Netflix

Rosenthal describes his current job as his dream, but he initially got his start in scripted television. His most successful project was sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond," with Ray Romano, for which he served as executive producer from 1996 to 2005. But in those nine years, "the business changed," he said.

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"They wanted young and hip and edgy, and I am not any of those things," he said, laughing. Looking for a new television opportunity once "Raymond" ended, he sought to combine his passions for food and travel.

It took him 10 years, he said, with even his agent expressing skepticism that he was qualified to host such a program, but his first documentary series, "I'll Have What Phil's Having," debuted on PBS in 2015. Six episodes followed him through Paris, Barcelona, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Los Angeles. Though the series only lasted one season, Rosenthal's dream continued, as "Somebody Feed Phil" debuted in 2018 on Netflix.

Phil Rosenthal, host of "Somebody Feed Phil," in Montreal Netflix

"My passion in life was to travel," Rosenthal said. "The food is actually, as much as I love it, it's secondary to the travel. The travel is what is the most mind-expanding thing. Yes, the food is part of it, but the meeting of the people, and the different cultures and the learning, that's the message of the show."

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Seven seasons in, Rosenthal has a following for his lighthearted approach; he embraces his quirky personality and approaches new experiences with smiles and jokey banter. Regular viewers know his face will light up and he'll do a happy dance when he tastes something he truly enjoys. His family members, including his wife Monica and his adult children Lily and Ben, often join him on episodes, and his brother Richard is the series' executive producer "and bane of my existence," he said with a laugh, nodding to a sibling rivalry he references often on the show.

Phil Rosenthal, host of Netflix's "Somebody Feel Phil," in San Francisco Netflix

In earlier seasons, each episode would end with Rosenthal talking to his parents Helen and Max via video chat from each destination, telling them about his experiences and asking his father to tell a joke. Both elder Rosenthals have since passed, but their son now dials up his comedian friends to share "a joke for Max," which he says "keeps the spirit of them alive."

"I know [viewers] are traveling with [their] family when [they] go on vacation. So here's what it's like to share hot dogs with your wife and daughter in Iceland. Here's what it's like to bring your son to Ben's Chili Bowl in Washington D.C.," Rosenthal said. "This is why you travel, is to share these experiences with your loved ones. There's nothing better in life."

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Rosenthal also recently co-wrote a children's book, "Just Try It!" with his daughter, about a "food-loving dad" encouraging his picky eater daughter to try new things. He's also planning to open a diner in Los Angeles with chef Nancy Silverton, named Max and Helen's for his parents, which he says is heavily inspired by his visit to Palace Diner in Biddeford, Maine in the series' fifth season.

Phil Rosenthal, host of "Somebody Feed Phil," in Seoul Netflix

"It truly inspired me to want to have a restaurant like that because when you have the elevated, best version of a food you know from childhood, I think that becomes your favorite thing," he said of the 15-seat train-car diner, known for its straightforward menu of breakfast and lunch fare. "They just elevated every single thing by their great talent and ingredients. That's it."

The Maine-focused episode has been the sole New England entry in the series so far, but Rosenthal said he's open to seeing more of the region for the show.

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"We only do five or six episodes a season. This year, we were lucky we did eight. But it's not that many episodes per year. And so I've only scratched the surface of the earth," he said. "I have to go everywhere. I want to go everywhere."
Varun Gandhis absence from the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) candidate list for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections has stirred up political speculations, particularly in the Pilibhit constituency, indicating a significant rift between the outspoken parliamentarian and the party leadership.

Sources indicate that Gandhis vocal criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modis policies has caused discomfort among party higher-ups, resulting in his exclusion from the electoral line-up.

The decision has fuelled conjecture about Gandhis potential political maneuvers, with speculation rife regarding his possible candidacy as a Samajwadi Party (SP) nominee or as an independent candidate. Such a move could potentially disrupt the BJPs aspirations to secure all 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh.

Renowned for his candid opinions, Gandhi has been a vocal opponent of several key initiatives of the Modi government, including its agricultural policies, retirement schemes, and employment programmes. His dissenting stance has resonated with opposition factions, amplifying discussions on contentious issues and injecting vigour into political discourse.

The SPs offer of a seat to Gandhi has added an intriguing dimension to the unfolding narrative. Party leaders, including national president Akhilesh Yadav and national general secretary Ram Gopal Yadav, have hinted at a possible induction if the BJP fails to nominate him. However, Gandhis response to this overture remains uncertain, given his long-standing association and ideological alignment with the BJP.

A recent comment by Akhilesh Yadav indicating the SPs open-door policy for Gandhi underscores the potential for a realignment of political allegiances.

Meanwhile, Bhagwat Saran Gangwar has been announced as the SPs official candidate for Pilibhit, though he has expressed willingness to step aside if Gandhi joins the fray.

Even Congress leader Adhir Ranjan lured Varun Gandhi by saying Varun Gandhi is a prominent leader and comes from the Gandhi family. He should join the Congress. Being from the Gandhi family, Varun Gandhi has been denied ticket this time.

In a surprising move, the BJP has nominated Jitin Prasada, PWD minister in the Yogi Adityanath cabinet, as its candidate for Pilibhit. Additionally, Varuns mother Maneka Gandhi has been tasked with contesting from Sultanpur, the constituency she successfully represented in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

The Gandhi familys stronghold over the Pilibhit parliamentary constituency has been undeniable for over three decades. Beginning with former Union minister Maneka Gandhis victory in the 1989 elections, the family has maintained a formidable presence in the region.

Varun Gandhi succeeded his mother in representing Pilibhit, solidifying the familys legacy in Indian politics.

However, the decision to deny Varun Gandhi a ticket for the upcoming elections marks a significant departure from tradition. In 2014, he was shifted to Sultanpur while his mother contested and won from Pilibhit.

Nonetheless, Gandhi reclaimed the seat in 2019, securing a decisive victory by a staggering margin of over 2.5 lakh votes, reaffirming the familys enduring dominance.

Gandhis commentary on social and political issues has often made headlines. In December 2021, he criticised the governments handling of job opportunities and recruitment processes, highlighting the plight of millions of unemployed youth.

Similarly, his response to the withdrawal of the contentious agricultural laws and his condemnation of communal narratives in the aftermath of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence showcased his willingness to challenge prevailing narratives.

Moreover, Gandhis advocacy for government employees rights and his call to re-evaluate pension schemes have underscored his commitment to social justice and equitable governance.

As the political landscape evolves and alliances shift, Varun Gandhis exclusion from the BJP ticket raises questions about the partys internal dynamics and its approach to dissenting voices within its ranks. It also presents Gandhi with a pivotal decision regarding his political future and ideological alignment.
The legal dispute over who actually invented iconic Indian dishes butter chicken and dal makhani is heating up. Weeks after the Delhi High Court decided to adjudicate the dispute between two Delhi-based restaurant chains Moti Mahal and Daryaganj, some alleged defamatory remarks are now at the centre of a savoury battle.

Daryaganj has moved the high court against certain alleged defamatory remarks made by the proprietors of Moti Mahal in a newspaper interview on the issue of the origin of butter chicken.

However, the owners of Moti Mahal have asserted that the remarks in question were an editorial perspective and cannot be attributed to them.

The food fight entered the legal arena after the Moti Mahal owners had filed a lawsuit in January claiming that their predecessor Late Kundan Lal Gujral had invented butter chicken and dal makhani and accused Daryaganj of misleading people on the origin of the two dishes.

Justice Sanjeev Narula asked the proprietors of Moti Mahal to submit an affidavit, affirming their effort to distance themselves from the statement in articles that have been published.

n its application, Daryaganj has raised concerns regarding the defamatory statements in the article -- first published in the Wall Street Journal and then further circulated and replicated by other websites -- saying they cause substantial negative impact on the restaurants reputation.

The statements, it has been alleged, not only disparaged their business but also prejudiced a fair adjudication on the lawsuit, and immediate corrective action should therefore be taken by the other side to retract and remove those.

The proprietors of Moti Mahal have sought to dissociate themselves from the remarks attributed to them, suggesting that the expressions found in the article were not reflective of their direct communications or intentions.

Plaintiffs (Moti Mahal owners) are directed to submit an affidavit, elaborating on the assertions and affirming their effort to distance themselves from the disputed statement in the published articles. Let the same be filed within two weeks from today, Justice Narula said in a recent order.

For several years, the two restaurant chains have claimed that they invented butter chicken and dal makhani.

But in January Moti Mahal sued Daryaganj for taking the credit for the two popular dishes.

Moti Mahals owners sought to restrain Daryaganj restaurants proprietors from claiming that their predecessor, Late Kundan Lal Jaggi, was the inventor of these two dishes, which are now world famous, and from using the tagline by the inventors of butter chicken and dal makhani on its website www.Daryaganj.Com and various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter, as well as in print and electronic media.

The high court had earlier issued a summons to the owners of Daryaganj and asked them to file a written statement in response to the suit.

In their suit, the Moti Mahal owners have claimed that it was their predecessor, Kundan Lal Gujral, who created the first tandoori chicken and later also went on to make butter chicken and dal makhani and brought it to India after Partition.

The counsel for Daryaganj restaurants have vehemently opposed the claims and contended that the suit was misconceived, baseless and lacking a cause of action.

The counsel have argued that the defendants have not engaged in any false representation or claim, and the allegations made in the suit are far from the truth.
After the fire accident in Ujjain Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple, effective efforts are being made to improve the fire fighting arrangements in the district.

Under the direction of Ujjain Collector Neeraj Kumar Singh, an action plan is being prepared to further strengthen the security measures and better management in Mahakal Temple. So that this type of fire accident does not happen again in future.

Collector Singh and Superintendent of Police Sharma are continuously inspecting the Mahakal temple and taking the opinion of experts.

On the initiative of the administration, forensic fire expert Mumbai Nilesh Ukunde reached Ujjain for a detailed investigation on the fire accident that occurred at Shri Mahakal Temple.

On Monday, Collector Singh held a meeting with fire expert Ukunde and informed him about the fire accident. He has asked the expert to quickly make a better action plan and give security suggestions.

A magisterial inquiry into the fire accident is also ongoing. Chief Executive Officer District Panchayat Mrinal Meena said that all aspects of the incident will be thoroughly investigated and a report will be given. It has been told that a preliminary report on important points found in the investigation will be submitted as soon as possible. Whose detailed investigation report will also be prepared. On which effective action can be taken.

Additional Collector Anukul Jain said that all the video footage of the accident is being thoroughly reviewed in connection with the investigation. Besides, statements of regular devotees, priests and temple committee employees are also being taken. Discussions are also being held with fire experts in this regard.

On Monday night, Ujjain Collector Singh and Superintendent of Police Sharma inspected the Mahakal temple closely. He gave strict instructions to the concerned officials to ensure that such fire accidents do not happen in future.

Regarding the upcoming Rang Panchami festival, he gave instructions that God should be worshiped in the temple on Rang Panchami as per the guidelines prescribed by the temple committee. Apart from the prescribed puja material, any kind of color, gulal or any material which has the potential to cause an accident will not be allowed to be taken into the temple.

Strict action should also be taken against those who violate the rules. He has also given instructions to ensure all necessary safety measures as a precautionary measure during the upcoming festivals.
The Delhi Government on Tuesday appealed to citizens to not fall prey to misinformation being spread by notorious elements who are trying to take advantage of the situation arising from the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

A statement issued by the Planning Department said speculations and rumours are being spread by notorious elements with vested interests in Delhi that welfare schemes and subsidies will be stopped.

Even as the law takes its own course in the process of criminal investigation, it merits clarification that administration of schemes and governance are never specific to individuals and shall continue in normal course, as in the past, it read. Sources in the AAP dispensation said the statement was issued following directions from Kejriwal. All public services, social welfare schemes and subsidies currently given by the Delhi government will continue uninterrupted, it said, asking people not to be misled by any fear-mongering and malicious disinformation in this regard.

Appeal to all citizens of Delhi to stay away from any rumour mongers, who would try to take advantage of situation arising from the arrest / remand of Honble Chief Minister of Delhi by Enforcement Directorate on 21 March, 2024, by spreading misinformation, it said.

Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate last week in connection with the money laundering case linked to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. He is in ED custody till March 28. In the statement, Planning Secretary Niharika Rai said such rumours create an atmosphere of fear within the general public.

There shall be no disruption of any kind in disbursement of admissible subsidies, pensions, welfare benefits etc. Social welfare schemes are funded with public money through the consolidated fund, backed by budgetary allocations.

The statement clarified that social welfare funds are neither the personal property of any individual or political entity nor funded by an individual or entitys personal money.

There is an architecture of civil services and processes laid down in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, which continues as usual. Hence, these public services, social welfare schemes and subsidies are not at all affected by the arrest/remand of Chief Minister, it stressed.
The Delhi Government on Tuesday directed all hospitals and medical colleges under its jurisdiction to ensure that all the CCTVs installed in their premises are functional to ensure safety of doctors and students, particularly women.

The directive follows Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwajs call for urgent action by the Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on March 21, against a professor accused of assault at BSA college, Rohini, citing the Chief Secretarys perceived lack of empathy for victims.

Protests had erupted outside the college premises earlier this week after several female students alleged physical abuse and sexual harassment by the professor. A case has been registered in the matter and police have been deployed outside the college premises to avoid any untoward incident.

However, to ensure that such untoward incidents do not happen in other colleges and hospitals, the State Government has issued a directive, seeking necessary CCTV provisions to be made immediately to cover all relevant areas to ensure safety and security of all girl students in all the medical colleges.

The direction further instructed for proper arrangement of audio-video recording in viva-voices of all girl students in all medical colleges taken by the male faculties within a weeks time, and till such time, a female observer during such viva-voices.
Hisar LS candidate and Haryana minister Ranjit Chautala resigns as MLA



Chandigarh: Haryana minister Ranjit Singh Chautala, who is the BJP candidate from Hisar Lok Sabha seat after he joined the party, has resigned from the membership of the state assembly. The independent MLA from Rania seat in Sirsa district has sent his resignation to Haryana Assembly Speaker. Chautala and industrialist and former Congress MP Naveen Jindal joined the BJP on Sunday and were named as the party's candidates from Hisar and Kurukshetra Lok Sabha seats, respectively. Recently, former chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar had also resigned as an MLA from Karnal. Khattar is contesting the Lok Sabha polls from Karnal. As an independent MLA, Chautala had extended support to the BJP when it fell short of majority on its own after the 2019 assembly polls. He was later made power and jails minister.





CEO Haryana: ECI launches mobile apps for voters & candidates to get updated information related to LS Poll



Chandigarh: To get the updated information related to Lok Sabha election 2024, the Haryana Chief Electoral Officer Anurag Agarwal on Tuesday said that the Election Commission of India has launched several mobile apps for the convenience of voters, political parties and contesting candidates. These apps allow individuals to obtain information related to the election process and also resolve their issues, he added. Presiding over a review meeting regarding election arrangements with department officers in Chandigarh, he said, to make the electoral process simple and convenient, the Election Commission of India has initiated not only offline but also online services. For example, if a young man or woman of 18 years of age wants to register as a voter, they can apply online on the Voter Registration website. This facility is available until the nomination process for the Lok Sabha elections commence. Once the nomination process starts, it will be closed. The nomination process in Haryana will commence from April 29 and continue until May 6, He added. He further said that similarly, a new app called "C-Vigil" has been launched by the Commission. Through this mobile app, any citizen can capture a photo or video if they notice any violation of the Model Code of Conduct in order to report their complaint, which will be resolved by the Election Office within 100 minutes, he added.

Strong inter-state nakas in place in Punjabs 10 border districts



Chandigarh: Punjabs Special Director General of Police (Spl DGP), Law and Order, Arpit Shukla on Tuesday directed all the Police officers to work as one team with the Excise and Taxation Department to keep vigil around the bootleggers. Accompanied by Punjab Excise and Taxation Commissioner (PETC) Varun Roojam, he virtually chaired a state-level meeting of senior officers of the Excise and Taxation Department and all Deputy Commissioners and Commissioner and Senior Superintendents of Police (CPs and SSPs) of the state at Punjab Police Headquarters here. To keep a tab at drug trafficking and liquor smuggling, Punjab Police have already laid well-coordinated strong inter-state nakas at all sealing points of 10 border districts in the state, which share boundaries with four states and UT Chandigarh  including Pathankot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Fazilka, Ropar, SAS Nagar, Patiala, Sangrur, Mansa, Hoshiarpur, and Bathinda. All CPs, SSPs have been asked to take excise officers along while conducting checking of vehicles at static or mobile nakas and ensure effective action against people found indulged in selling or smuggling of illicit or spurious liquor. Directions have also been given to the officers to intensify checking at villages, especially in Mand areas, which are infamous for making lahan (raw material used to make liquor). He also asked them to take preventive action against bootleggers or unscrupulous elements, who are history-sheeters or facing criminal cases under serious offences. PETC Roojam asked the officers to keep vigil at dilapidated buildings, marriage palaces, godowns and other suspected points where liquor can be stored.



JJP to field its candidates in all 10 Lok Sabha seats in Haryana & one in Chandigarh





Chandigarh: The Jannayak Janata Party (JJP), a former alliance partner of BJP in Haryana on Tuesday announced to contest on its own all the 10 Lok Sabha seats in the state. The decision was taken at a meeting of the s political affairs committee (PAC) in Delhi, the party said in a statement. Various issues related to the Lok Sabha elections were discussed at the PAC meeting held in Delhi. In the meeting chaired by JJP national president Ajay Singh Chautala, some names were shortlisted for each Lok Sabha constituency in Haryana. It was suggested by some members in the meeting that apart from Haryana, the party should also explore the possibility of contesting elections on the Lok Sabha seat of Chandigarh. The PAC discussed the names of the probable candidates for all the 10 Lok Sabha seats of Haryana and evaluated them on various parameters. Lok Sabha polls for all 10 seats in Haryana will be held in the sixth of the seven-phase general elections on May 25. The BJP has already announced its candidates for all the 10 seats. In the PAC meeting, a suggestion was made that the JJP should contest the Chandigarh parliamentary seat as well, on which the party leadership directed to explore the possibilities, said the statement. Former Haryana Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala and JJP state president Nishan Singh were among those who were present in the meeting.

AAP leaders protest in Haryana against Kejriwals arrest



Chandigarh/Ambala: Scores of Aam Aadmi Party leaders and workers on Tuesday staged a protest in Ambala and in other parts of Haryana against the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The AAP workers gathered near the BJPs Ambala City office and staged a protest during which they raised slogans against the BJP-led government at the Centre. Protests by the AAP were also held in other parts of Haryana, including Karnal, Rohtak and Faridabad. AAP state unit president Sushil Gupta said the BJP government is scared of the good works done by the Kejriwal dispensation. He said, The dictatorial Modi government wants to destroy the Aam Aadmi Party but today the entire country stands firmly with honest leader Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party. During their protest, the AAP also hit out at the BJP government in Haryana over the alleged police lathicharge on the AAP workers and some state leaders of the party in Kurukshetra on March 22. Following Kejriwals arrest on March 21, the AAP had given a nationwide call for protest against the BJP the next day.
Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the Delhi Chief Ministers first order issued from the custody on Sunday which is being investigating by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Tuesday came out with an another directive issued to the health department by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on smooth functioning of the AAPs flagship Mohalla Clinics.

After the AAP supremos directions, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government has called a special session of Delhi Assembly on Wednesday to discuss the availability on free medicines in Mohalla Clinics. The chief secretary has been asked to give a status report on the free medicines and free tests in hospitals and mohalla clinics. The Health Minister has said that if there is a shortage of free medicines, then the chief secretary should come up with an action plan to fix the issue. He further asked the chief secretary to also give a complete plan to tackle the issue of a shortage of free tests, if there is any.

Taking cognizance of the second directions, ED sources said it will probe the partys claim as no stationery is allowed for those in custody. Sources said both Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj will be questioned on the source of the purported order, and who brought it and delivered it to her and when. Sources said the agency will verify the claim through CCTV footage.

Earlier, addressing a press conference, Bharadwaj said that despite being in jail, Arvind Kejriwal is worried about the health of the people of Delhi. He has issued me a direction in this regard. In his direction, he said that free medicines are not available in some of the Delhi hospitals and mohalla clinics. Besides, free tests are also not being conducted in some of them, Bharadwaj said. He has directed me to solve these issues.

The Health Minister said Kejriwal received information about problems in laboratory tests available at Mohalla Clinics and issued the directions. His order is Gods order to us. Shri Arvind Kejriwal is in jail, but he is fully concerned about the health facilities in Delhi, said the Health Minister. The health department will act immediately to address the issues, Bharadwaj said. He said the latest directions from Kejriwal show that despite being in custody, he always thinks about the wellbeing of the people of Delhi.

Bharadwaj said in Delhi, lakhs of people are fully dependent on free medicines in government hospitals as they cannot afford to buy them. Some people need life-long medicines such as those suffering from diabetes and blood pressure. There are some kidney patients who need dialysis, said the Health Minister.

Earlier on Sunday, Kejriwal had issued the first order while in the EDs custody, directing Water Minister Atishi to resolve water and sewage issues in the national Capital.
Punjab poll panel is embarking on a technological revolution for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024, with an array of cutting-edge IT initiatives set to transform the electoral landscape. Picture this: 100 per cent webcasting will illuminate all 24,433 polling stations across the state, while a suite of mobile voter-friendly apps and websites will put election oversight at the fingertips of every citizen. These innovations not only empower voters to report violations via phone but also ensure meticulous monitoring of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) transportation and the installation of vigilant CCTV cameras at polling stations.

Aiming to make the electoral process more transparent and accessible, the states Chief Electoral Office (CEO) Sibin C has introduced a comprehensive range of IT solutions. We are closely monitoring the election process through 100 per cent webcasting of poll stations. For the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, CCTV surveillance will be ensured inside all 24,433 polling booths, apart from it cameras will be installed outside 1,884 polling stations in all 13 constituencies where there are three or more polling stations, he said.

CEO said that the implementation of 100 per cent webcasting at all polling stations will enable real-time monitoring of polling activities, ensuring accountability and transparency throughout the electoral process. Additionally, the installation of CCTV cameras at polling stations further enhances surveillance, deterring malpractices, and safeguarding the integrity of the voting process.

Sibin C said that they have introduced a revamped NextGen District Information System for Elections (DISE) this time which will be used to manage all aspects of elections  from collecting data of polling staff to scheduling rehearsals, randomizing polling staff and counting staff.

This web-based application is utilized to integrate available employee data from other applications using APIs, CSV or Excel files. It will also assist in managing staff shortages after the initial stage by deploying additional staff, he added.

In another initiative, the CEO said that live streaming from flying squad vehicles (FSV), and static surveillance teams are monitoring violations of the model code of conduct during the election process. The poll activity management system (PAMS) used for deploying polling parties and updating voting information, such as the commencement of polling and the status of voter queues at closing hours, has also been revamped to enhance the efficiency of election-related activities. The mobile app will provide real-time data.

In addition, the poll panel has launched several mobile voter-friendly apps and websites. These platforms empower voters to actively participate in the electoral process by reporting election violations via phone. Citizens can use these apps to submit complaints and provide evidence of any malpractices, enabling swift action by election authorities to address such issues.

The ECIs Voter Helpline APP provides citizens with convenience in finding their names in the electoral roll, submitting online forms, downloading their digital photo voter slip, filing complaints, and receiving replies on their mobile app, he said.

Another crucial initiative is the mobile application Know Your Candidate, allowing electors to access details and criminal background of any candidate. This app aims to provide wider publicity and greater awareness regarding the criminal background of contesting candidates to ensure transparent elections.

In another novel initiatives by the ECI, the voter-friendly mobile app cVIGIL enables people to report the Model Code of Conduct violations, featuring live photo or video with live location. Any citizen can lodge a complaint through this mobile app, after which Flying Squads investigate the matter, and the Returning Officer takes a decision within 100 minutes, utilizing GPS to track the violation's location, he said.

Likewise, the CEO said that Saksham-ECI, an application enabling Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to request new registration, address changes, alter particulars, and mark themselves as PwD. The app offers voice assistance, text-to-speech, accessibility features, among others, catering to the needs of PwDs during the electoral process.

BOX

IT Initiatives

 100 per cent webcasting of all 24,433 polling stations

 Cameras to be installed outside 1,884 polling stations in all 13 constituencies

 NextGen District Information System for Elections (DISE)

 Live streaming from flying squad vehicles (FSV), and static surveillance teams

 Poll activity management system (PAMS)

 Voter Helpline App

 Know Your Candidate

 cVIGIL

 Saksham
At Radisson intersection, the driver of loading vehicle number MP13 -ZF-4424, while driving at high speed and carelessly, hit a mother and son riding motorcycle number MP 09 ME 9954.

Subedar Amit Yadav, Constable Jitendra Yadav, Bhavna and Nikita looking after the work of traffic management at the intersection. Bhavna and Nikita immediately reached the spot and picked up mother, son and the bike.

Subedar Amit Kumar Yadav called the ambulance and found that motorcyclist Jitendra's son of Babulal had a general injury, while his mother Sushila Sharma's left leg was broken below the knee and his leg was hanging. Seeing the seriousness of the matter, without waiting, wounded were taken in an auto and taken to MY Hospital. Subedar Amit Yadav and constable Sanjay Jat got both of them treated in the hospital and the family members were informed.

Some medicines were prescribed by the doctor from the market, due to the lack of money with the concerned person, they were made available by the traffic team. The injured were treated by the traffic officers and staff along with the traffic management. DCP Traffic Management, Indore, Arvind Tiwari, to encourage the above commendable work of helping, rewarded the traffic police team of Radisson intersection.
Tormented by husband and in-laws a 28-year-old married woman hanged her three daughters and committed suicide by hanging at Rodia village on Monday; one daughter escape and ia struggling for life.

In Bhopal, a mother committed suicide by hanging herself after hanging her three daughters. The woman and two daughters died.

A two and a half year old daughter has been admitted to the hospital in critical condition. The woman's brother has accused her in-laws of harassing her for not giving birth to a son. However, initial information surfaced about murder.

The incident took place in Rodia village of Gunga police station area, 35 km from Bhopal.

The matter came to light on Tuesday afternoon. The bodies of all three have been sent to Hamidia Hospital.

The name of mother is Sangeeta Yadav, 28 years old, daughter Aaradhya was 5 years old and Manu 2.5 years Shrishti is 1.5 years old.

Gunga police station in-charge Arun Sharma said that Sangeeta, a resident of Sangrampur in Raisen district, was married to Rajat Yadav, a resident of Rodiya village in Bhopal, in 2018.

In the initial investigation, indications of suicide by the woman and murder of three girls before this have been found during the investigation of the incident spot.

The woman committed suicide after hanging her daughters. Before this she had sent five messages to sister-in-law Mona. The first message was sent at 12.24 on Monday night and the remaining four at 12.55. After this he sent the same message to his brother Neeraj.

Sangeeta's brother Neeraj Yadav has accused his sister's in-laws of harassing her.

Neeraj told that at night Sangeeta sent five messages one after the other on the mobile. I saw the messages in the morning.

Neeraj said- I called Sangeeta's mobile after seeing the message. But, I did not get any response from there. Also called Sangeeta's brother-in-law. He did not pick up my call twice. When he picked up the phone the third time, I asked if everything was alright at home. He said yes, everything is fine. I didn't believe them. I got suspicious and callex my aunt who lives and when they in the neighboring village and when they reached their house, they saw that the bodies of all three were kept in the house. They told me and I informed the police. After that the police reached there.

Neeraj told that the bodies of the three were first seen by Sangeeta's sister-in-law. They removed the dead bodies from the noose at around 6 in the morning. They did not even inform the police. The younger niece who is admitted in the hospital has also been put to death by her in-laws.

Neeraj told that whenever sister came to her maternal house, brother-in-law Rajat Yadav used to threaten to die. He used to say, I am not coming to take it.

The family has alleged that when Sangeeta was found hanging, a letter was stuck on her back. This was a suicide note, in which he had written  There is a lump in his stomach. Because of this she can no longer have children. I cannot give a son to my family, so I am going to do this. However, some other family members say that no letter has been received. At the same time, if policemen are to be believed, a letter has been recovered from the spot.
The "Smack for Heinz" sidewalk billboard and ketchup packet dispenser was erected outside Louis' Lunch for a brief time on March 7, 2024. Heinz/Contributed photo

For a short time on March 7, it seemed as though someone had found a workaround to the ketchup prohibition at Louis' Lunch. A sidewalk billboard that said "Smack for Heinz" and dispensed ketchup packets appeared on the Crown Street sidewalk in front of the New Haven institution.

The sign disappeared just as quickly and mysteriously, with only a Facebook post to document it had ever existed.

But a spokesperson for Heinz Ketchup confirmed via a March 27 email that this was part of a marketing campaign the brand created. A representative for Louis' Lunch was not immediately available for comment.

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The campaign, titled "Smack for Heinz," launches in earnest on April 2, according to the email. Its name comes from the act of smacking the bottom of the bottle to get out more ketchup. People will be able to use the website smackforheinz.com, which is not yet live, to report restaurants that don't serve Heinz ketchup. The company will set up the pop-up signs that dispense packets at a select number.

The landmark Louis Lunch, where the hamburger was invented, on Crown Street in New Haven, Conn. on Thursday, May 13, 2021. Brian A. Pounds/Hearst Connecticut Media

Heinz will also release a film of these ketchup dispensers in action around the country. The Louis' Lunch sign can be seen in a trailer on YouTube.

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Louis' Lunch opened in 1895, according to its website. The site states that in 1900, founder Louis Lassen invented the hamburger when he smushed together steak trimmings and cooked the resulting patty in the restaurant's proprietary cast-iron grill.

Connecticut Magazine reported that a Texas restaurant advertised "hamburger steak sandwiches" in 1894, challenging the claim that Louis' Lunch invented them. Current owner Jeff Lassen, however, said that the advertisement "proves nothing."

Whether or not Louis' Lunch invented hamburgers, the restaurant is very strict about how it will serve them. All burgers are cooked to order and served on toasted white bread. "Cheese, tomato, and onion are the only acceptable garnish," according to the website, so no condiments are offered. The site states that this is to highlight the simplicity of a fresh burger.
The Maharashtra Congress on Wednesday objected to the Shiv Sena (UBT) announcing its candidates for the Bhiwandi, Mumbai South Central and Sangli Lok Sabha seats, saying MVA partners must stick to "coalition dharma".

Congress Legislature Party leader Balasaheb Thorat urged Sena (UBT) to reconsider its decision.

However, his party colleague Sanjay Nirupam adopted a more belligerent stand, attacking their leadership for letting the Uddhav Thackeray-led outfit grab most of the seats in Mumbai.

Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) constituents Congress, Sena (UBT) and NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) have been holding seat-sharing discussions for the 48 constituencies in Maharashtra, where the Lok Sabha polls will be held in five phases starting April 19.

Amid the talks, Sena (UBT) earlier in the day released its first list of 17 candidates for the upcoming elections and said it will contest a total of 22 seats in the state.

Congress Legislature Party leader Balasaheb Thorat said the announcement was not right.

"Everyone must follow coalition dharma. Shiv Sena (UBT) must reconsider its decision," Thorat said.

He said the Congress is still firm on contesting from Sangli, Bhiwandi and Mumbai South Central. "Unfortunately, coalition dharma hasn't been followed," he said.

Thorat said his party's state unit has apprised the central leadership of the developments.

The senior Congress leader also lamented that Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) leader Prakash Ambedkar has announced a separate list of candidates.

Ambedkar on Wednesday announced candidates for the Lok Sabha polls in Maharashtra, accusing the MVA allies of trying to use his outfit to promote dynastic politics.

Considering the prevailing political situation in the country, the Congress made a genuine attempt to reach out to all parties who believe in democracy and the Constitution, he said.

Meanwhile, former Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam slammed his party leadership for allowing Sena (UBT) to grab most seats in Mumbai.

Talking to reporters, Nirupam said all options were open before him.

I will wait for a week and then take a decision, he said.

Nirupam, who is keen to contest the Mumbai North West parliamentary constituency, said the party leadership hasn't got in touch with him in the last fortnight.

The leadership isn't bothered that injustice is being done to its leaders and workers. Shiv Sena (UBT) is making us bend and we are doing it, he said.

Nirupam criticised Sena (UBT) for declaring its candidates in four out of six seats in Mumbai. It is likely that the candidate for the fifth seat will also be declared tomorrow, he claimed.

He alleged that attempts are being made to bury the Congress in Mumbai and the party will pay a price for it. I give my leaders a week's time to decide, he said.

Nirupam claimed that the Sena (UBT) has given the ticket in Mumbai North West to an accused in an alleged scam during the COVID-19 pandemic.

I will not campaign for such a candidate. Didn't the congress leadership which speaks against corruption realise this, he asked. The Sena (UBT) has nominated Amol Kirtikar, son of Shiv Sena MP Gajanan Kirtikar who owes allegiance to CM Shinde-led Sena, from Mumbai North-West.

Sena (UBT) is likely to field a candidate in Mumbai North as well, leaving only Mumbai North Central for the Congress in the megapolis.
At least five Chinese nationals were among the six persons killed on Tuesday when an explosives-packed vehicle rammed into their bus in Pakistans troubled province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, officials said, in the second suicide attack on the personnel working on the China-backed hydropower project since 2021.

The Chinese were working on the Dasu hydropower project, which is about 300 km to the north of Islamabad. The 4,320 MW project is being constructed by the China Gezhouba with funding from the World Bank. In Tuesdays attack, several others were injured in the incident that occurred in the Bisham area of Shangla district of the province when a bus, escorted by a five-vehicle convoy, en route from Islamabad to Kohistan was hit by a vehicle coming from the opposite direction in the hilly terrain, police said. The incident occurred around 1 pm.

One of the vehicles of the 13-vehicle convoy caught fire and fell into a ravine, following the attack, Chinas Xinhua news agency said, quoting the sources.

Senior police officer Muhammad Ali Gandapur confirmed the incident and the death toll, adding that apparently, it was a suicide attack. Five Chinese nationals and their Pakistani driver were killed in the attack, Gandapur told the media.

No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack. The police and officials of other security agencies rushed to the scene of the attack and launched a probe into the incident.

The Pakistan Army said that strategic projects and sensitive sites vital for Pakistans economic progress are being targeted as a conscious effort to retard progress and sow discord between Pakistan and its strategic allies and partners, most notably China.

Pakistans Foreign Ministry said the attack was orchestrated by the enemies of Pakistan-China friendship and added that Such dastardly acts cannot dent the resolve of Pakistani nation to fight against the scourge of terrorism. The Chinese Embassy here announced taking all necessary measures to protect the Chinese citizens, institutions and projects in Pakistan, and to ensure such incidents will not happen again. This is the second such attack that has killed Chinese nationals since 2021.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi rushed to the Chinese embassy here and met Chinese ambassador Jiang Zaidong.

Naqvi offered condolences and also assured the envoy that the Pakistan government would bring the perpetrators to justice.

President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the attack and said, Anti-Pakistan elements will never succeed in damaging Pak-China friendship. Chief Minister Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province Ali Amin Gandapur also has condemned the suicide attack and sought a detailed report from the provincial police chief into the attack on the Chinese vehicle.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Army said that the recent incidents of terrorism in Pakistan, notably in Gwadar, Turbat, and Besham on Tuesday were dastardly acts aimed at destabilizing the internal security situation. While the first two attempts were successfully thwarted by the armed forces, the latest incident at Besham claimed six innocent civilians including 5 Chinese nationals, the army said in a statement, condemning the incident. Certain foreign elements are complicit in aiding and abetting terrorism in Pakistan, driven by their vested interests. Despite the veneer of innocence, these elements are being continuously exposed as sponsors of terror, it said.

The army declared that Pakistan with the unwavering support of the resilient nation and our iron-clad ally China will ensure that all those involved in aiding terrorism, directly or indirectly, are held accountable and find their due comeuppance.

The Foreign Ministry also strongly condemned what it called as the heinous act of terrorism and said it will take all necessary measures to bring the terrorists and their facilitators to justice.

Such dastardly acts cannot dent the resolve of the Pakistani nation to fight against the scourge of terrorism. Todays attack was orchestrated by the enemies of Pakistan-China friendship. We will resolutely act against all such forces and defeat them, it said.

Pakistan and China are close friends and iron brothers. The life and safety of Chinese nationals in Pakistan is of paramount importance. Pakistan will continue to work with our Chinese brothers in ensuring the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects and institutions in Pakistan, the statement added.

Separately, the Chinese Embassy, in a statement, too strongly condemned the attack and expressed deep condolences to the victims and sincere sympathy to the bereaved families. The Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in Pakistan have launched an emergency plan immediately, requesting the Pakistani side to thoroughly investigate the attack and severely punish the perpetrators, it said.

The embassy announced taking all necessary measures to protect the Chinese citizens, institutions and projects in Pakistan, and to ensure such incidents will not happen again.

It also reminded the Chinese citizens, and enterprises in Pakistan to pay close attention to the security situation, enhance security alerts, strengthen security measures, and make every effort to take safety precautions.

Chinese experts believe the latest attack is a copy of the July 2021 Dasu terror attack in which nine Chinese nationals and four Pakistani people were killed.

This latest case should serve as a wake-up call for Pakistan that it needs to improve the security situation in the country and for China that it should be aware of the terrorist forces that are trying to sabotage the success of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Chinese security experts told the Global Times.

Thousands of Chinese personnel are working in Pakistan on several projects being carried out under the aegis of the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
Hamas has rejected the latest proposal put forward by international mediators for a cease-fire and hostage release, and Israel has blasted a UN Security Council resolution that called for both without linking them.

As the war in Gaza grinds through a sixth month, each side has publicly insisted that its own idea of victory is in reach, and late Monday they rejected the latest international efforts to stem the bloodshed.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel can achieve its aims of dismantling Hamas and returning scores of hostages if it expands its ground offensive to the southern city of Rafah, where over half of Gazas population has sought refuge, many in crowded tent camps.

Hamas has said it will hold onto the hostages until Israel agrees to a more permanent cease-fire, withdraws its forces from Gaza and releases hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants. It said late Monday that it has rejected a recent proposal that fell short of those demands  which, if fulfilled, would allow it to claim an extremely costly victory.

There is no end in sight to the war, which has killed over 32,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry. The fighting has left much of the Gaza Strip in ruins, displaced most its residents and driven a third of its population of 2.3 million to the brink of famine.

An Israeli strike late Monday on a residential building in Rafah where three displaced families were sheltering killed at least 16 people, including nine children and four women, according to hospital records and relatives of the deceased. An Associated Press reporter saw the bodies arrive at a hospital.

On Monday, the Security Council finally managed to pass a resolution calling for a cease-fire as the United States abstained instead of vetoing the measure, angering Israel in a major escalation of tensions between the two close allies. The resolution calls for the release of all hostages held in Gaza but does not condition the cease-fire on it.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz told Army Radio on Tuesday that the resolution had emboldened Hamas by signalling that international pressure would end the war without it having to make any concessions.

The message delivered to Hamas yesterday  is that you dont have to hurry, Katz said. The war began on October 7, when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border and attacked communities in southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 others. It is still believed to be holding about 100 hostages and the remains of 30 others, after most of the rest were freed in November in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners. The United States, Qatar and Egypt have spent several weeks trying to negotiate another cease-fire and hostage release, but those efforts appeared to have stalled. Hamas said in a statement late Monday that it has informed the mediators it will stick to an earlier position.

Hamas said Israel has not responded to its core demands of a comprehensive cease-fire, an (Israeli) withdrawal from the Strip, the return of displaced people and a real prisoner exchange.

Hamas has previously proposed a phased process in which it would release all the remaining hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the opening of its borders for aid and reconstruction, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants serving life sentences.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected those demands as unrealistic. He has vowed to resume Israels offensive after any hostage release and keep fighting until Hamas is destroyed, saying its the only way to prevent a repeat of the October 7 attack. But he has provided few details about what would follow any such victory and has largely rejected a postwar vision outlined by the US.

That approach has brought him into increasingly open conflict with President Joe Bidens administration, which has expressed mounting concern over civilian casualties while supplying Israel with crucial military aid and backing Israels aim of destroying Hamas. The US had vetoed previous UN resolutions calling for a cease-fire.

The White House has urged Israel not to undertake a major ground operation in Rafah, warning that it could cause a humanitarian catastrophe. The administration was set to brief visiting Israeli officials on an alternative approach, but Netanyahu called off their visit in response to the US abstention at the UN.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant is in Washington on a separate trip, however, and is to meet with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday.

On Monday, Gallant vowed to continue the offensive until Israels aims are met.

We will operate against Hamas everywhere  including in places where we have not yet been, he said. We have no moral right to stop the war while there are still hostages held in Gaza.

ap n rafah

Hamas has rejected the latest proposal put forward by international mediators for a cease-fire and hostage release, and Israel has blasted a UN Security Council resolution that called for both without linking them.

As the war in Gaza grinds through a sixth month, each side has publicly insisted that its own idea of victory is in reach, and late Monday they rejected the latest international efforts to stem the bloodshed.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel can achieve its aims of dismantling Hamas and returning scores of hostages if it expands its ground offensive to the southern city of Rafah, where over half of Gazas population has sought refuge, many in crowded tent camps.

Hamas has said it will hold onto the hostages until Israel agrees to a more permanent cease-fire, withdraws its forces from Gaza and releases hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants. It said late Monday that it has rejected a recent proposal that fell short of those demands  which, if fulfilled, would allow it to claim an extremely costly victory.

There is no end in sight to the war, which has killed over 32,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry. The fighting has left much of the Gaza Strip in ruins, displaced most its residents and driven a third of its population of 2.3 million to the brink of famine.

An Israeli strike late Monday on a residential building in Rafah where three displaced families were sheltering killed at least 16 people, including nine children and four women, according to hospital records and relatives of the deceased. An Associated Press reporter saw the bodies arrive at a hospital.

On Monday, the Security Council finally managed to pass a resolution calling for a cease-fire as the United States abstained instead of vetoing the measure, angering Israel in a major escalation of tensions between the two close allies. The resolution calls for the release of all hostages held in Gaza but does not condition the cease-fire on it.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz told Army Radio on Tuesday that the resolution had emboldened Hamas by signalling that international pressure would end the war without it having to make any concessions.

The message delivered to Hamas yesterday  is that you dont have to hurry, Katz said. The war began on October 7, when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border and attacked communities in southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 others. It is still believed to be holding about 100 hostages and the remains of 30 others, after most of the rest were freed in November in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners. The United States, Qatar and Egypt have spent several weeks trying to negotiate another cease-fire and hostage release, but those efforts appeared to have stalled. Hamas said in a statement late Monday that it has informed the mediators it will stick to an earlier position.

Hamas said Israel has not responded to its core demands of a comprehensive cease-fire, an (Israeli) withdrawal from the Strip, the return of displaced people and a real prisoner exchange.

Hamas has previously proposed a phased process in which it would release all the remaining hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the opening of its borders for aid and reconstruction, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants serving life sentences.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected those demands as unrealistic. He has vowed to resume Israels offensive after any hostage release and keep fighting until Hamas is destroyed, saying its the only way to prevent a repeat of the October 7 attack. But he has provided few details about what would follow any such victory and has largely rejected a postwar vision outlined by the US.

That approach has brought him into increasingly open conflict with President Joe Bidens administration, which has expressed mounting concern over civilian casualties while supplying Israel with crucial military aid and backing Israels aim of destroying Hamas. The US had vetoed previous UN resolutions calling for a cease-fire.

The White House has urged Israel not to undertake a major ground operation in Rafah, warning that it could cause a humanitarian catastrophe. The administration was set to brief visiting Israeli officials on an alternative approach, but Netanyahu called off their visit in response to the US abstention at the UN.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant is in Washington on a separate trip, however, and is to meet with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday.

On Monday, Gallant vowed to continue the offensive until Israels aims are met.

We will operate against Hamas everywhere  including in places where we have not yet been, he said. We have no moral right to stop the war while there are still hostages held in Gaza.
(): Twenty-two victims of the Russia concert hall attack that killed more than 130 people remain in serious condition in the hospital, Health Minister Mikhail Murashko said Tuesday, according to state news agency Tass. Two of them are children, it said.

Russia is still reeling from the attack Friday in which gunmen killed 139 people in a concert hall on the outskirts of Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin said Monday that the gunmen are radical Islamists, but despite all evidence pointing to the involvement of Islamic State, Putin repeated his accusation that Ukraine could have played a role. Kyiv has strongly denied any link to the attack. Four men accused of carrying out the attack appeared before a Moscow court on Sunday on terrorism charges and showed signs of severe beatings. One appeared to be barely conscious during the hearing.

The men are citizens of Tajikistan, authorities said, and were named by investigators as Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, 32; Saidakrami Rachabalizoda, 30; Shamsidin Fariduni, 25; and Mukhammadsobir Faizov, 19. They were charged with committing a terrorist attack resulting in the death of others. The offense carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Russian officials said they detained a total of 11 people over the attack. Another of those detained appeared in court Monday. Alisher Kasimov, a citizen of Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia, was charged over renting an apartment to the men accused of carrying out the attack. A senior Turkish security official confirmed Tuesday that two of the Moscow attackers had spent a short amount of time in Turkey before travelling together to Russia on March 2.

One of the attackers, Fariduni, entered Turkey on February 20, checked into a hotel in Istanbuls Fatih district the next day and checked out on February 27, the official said. The other, Rachabalizoda, checked into a hotel in the same district on January 5, checking out on January 21. The official said Turkish authorities believe the two suspects became radicalized in Russia because they were not in Turkey for long.

There was no warrant for their arrest so they were allowed to travel freely between Russia and Turkey, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to make public statements.

The attack Friday night at the Crocus City Hall music venue on Moscows western outskirts was one of the deadliest in Russia in years and left more than 180 people injured.Two days after the Islamic States Afghanistan affiliate claimed responsibility for the attack at the music venue, Putin acknowledged during a meeting with government officials that the killings were carried out by extremists whose ideology the Islamic world has been fighting for centuries.

Putin, who declared over the weekend the four attackers were arrested while trying to escape to Ukraine, said investigators havent determined who ordered the attack, but said it was necessary to find out why the terrorists after committing their crime tried to flee to Ukraine and who was waiting for them there.

The IS affiliate claimed it carried out the attack, and U.S. intelligence said it had information confirming the group was responsible. French President Emmanuel Macron said France has intelligence pointing to an IS entity as responsible for the attack.
(): Hackers linked to the Chinese government launched a state-sponsored operation that targeted New Zealands Parliament in 2021, the countrys security minister said Tuesday.

New Zealands allegation comes a day after American and British authorities announced a set of criminal charges and sanctions against seven hackers, all believed to be living in China, who targeted US officials, journalists, corporations and pro-democracy activists, as well as the UKs election watchdog.

The use of cyber-enabled espionage operations to interfere with democratic institutions and processes anywhere is unacceptable, Judith Collins, the defense minister responsible for the Government Communications Security Bureau, said in a statement.

Collins said the agency had also established links between a state-sponsored entity linked to China and malicious cyber activity targeting parliamentary entities in New Zealand.

The bureaus National Cyber Security Centre completed a robust technical assessment following a compromise of the Parliamentary Counsel Office and the Parliamentary Service in 2021, and has attributed this activity to a PRC (China) state-sponsored group known as APT40, Collins said.

Fortunately, in this instance, the NCSC worked with the impacted organisations to contain the activity and remove the actor shortly after they were able to access the network, she added.

Collins said New Zealand will not follow the US and UK in sanctioning China because New Zealand does not have a law allowing such penalties, nor were there plans to introduce legislation.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed New Zealands concerns had been conveyed to Chinese Ambassador Wang Xiaolong.

Foreign interference of this nature is unacceptable, and we have urged China to refrain from such activity in future, Peters said in a statement Tuesday. New Zealand will continue to speak out  consistently and predictably  where we see concerning behaviours like this. Peters met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, on March 18, and said the countries share a significant and complex relationship.

We cooperate with China in some areas for mutual benefit, he said. At the same time, we have also been consistent and clear that we will speak out on issues of concern.

In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian dismissed the allegations as typical political manipulation concocted by the US and UK, with whom it is in conflict over issues including Taiwan, the South China Sea, Xinjiang, Hong Kong and a wide range of trade disputes.

For some time, the US, for geopolitical purposes, has encouraged the Five Eyes Alliance, the worlds largest intelligence organisation dominated by the US, to fabricate and disseminate all kinds of disinformation about threats posed by Chinese hackers, Lin said at a daily briefing Tuesday, citing the alliance between Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and US to collect and share sensitive information.

Wellington (AP): Hackers linked to the Chinese government launched a state-sponsored operation that targeted New Zealands Parliament in 2021, the countrys security minister said Tuesday.

New Zealands allegation comes a day after American and British authorities announced a set of criminal charges and sanctions against seven hackers, all believed to be living in China, who targeted US officials, journalists, corporations and pro-democracy activists, as well as the UKs election watchdog.

The use of cyber-enabled espionage operations to interfere with democratic institutions and processes anywhere is unacceptable, Judith Collins, the defense minister responsible for the Government Communications Security Bureau, said in a statement.

Collins said the agency had also established links between a state-sponsored entity linked to China and malicious cyber activity targeting parliamentary entities in New Zealand.

The bureaus National Cyber Security Centre completed a robust technical assessment following a compromise of the Parliamentary Counsel Office and the Parliamentary Service in 2021, and has attributed this activity to a PRC (China) state-sponsored group known as APT40, Collins said.

Fortunately, in this instance, the NCSC worked with the impacted organisations to contain the activity and remove the actor shortly after they were able to access the network, she added.

Collins said New Zealand will not follow the US and UK in sanctioning China because New Zealand does not have a law allowing such penalties, nor were there plans to introduce legislation.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed New Zealands concerns had been conveyed to Chinese Ambassador Wang Xiaolong.

Foreign interference of this nature is unacceptable, and we have urged China to refrain from such activity in future, Peters said in a statement Tuesday. New Zealand will continue to speak out  consistently and predictably  where we see concerning behaviours like this. Peters met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, on March 18, and said the countries share a significant and complex relationship.

We cooperate with China in some areas for mutual benefit, he said. At the same time, we have also been consistent and clear that we will speak out on issues of concern.

In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian dismissed the allegations as typical political manipulation concocted by the US and UK, with whom it is in conflict over issues including Taiwan, the South China Sea, Xinjiang, Hong Kong and a wide range of trade disputes.

For some time, the US, for geopolitical purposes, has encouraged the Five Eyes Alliance, the worlds largest intelligence organisation dominated by the US, to fabricate and disseminate all kinds of disinformation about threats posed by Chinese hackers, Lin said at a daily briefing Tuesday, citing the alliance between Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and US to collect and share sensitive information.
SignalPoint Asset Management LLC cut its stake in AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV  Free Report) by 1.0% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 9,971 shares of the companys stock after selling 101 shares during the period. SignalPoint Asset Management LLCs holdings in AbbVie were worth $1,545,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of AbbVie by 89,097.0% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 29,203,106 shares of the companys stock worth $4,719,514,000 after acquiring an additional 29,170,366 shares during the period. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in shares of AbbVie in the 4th quarter worth about $3,033,348,000. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA grew its position in AbbVie by 29,922.3% in the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 6,032,374 shares of the companys stock valued at $899,186,000 after buying an additional 6,012,281 shares in the last quarter. Morgan Stanley grew its position in AbbVie by 17.9% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 31,571,750 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,102,311,000 after buying an additional 4,785,277 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership grew its position in AbbVie by 426.5% in the 1st quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 4,652,122 shares of the companys stock valued at $754,155,000 after buying an additional 3,768,579 shares in the last quarter. 70.23% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

ABBV has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Truist Financial increased their target price on shares of AbbVie from $180.00 to $195.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 6th. Barclays raised their price objective on shares of AbbVie from $175.00 to $185.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, February 5th. Guggenheim raised their price objective on shares of AbbVie from $188.00 to $190.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday. William Blair upgraded shares of AbbVie from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, January 29th. Finally, HSBC lowered shares of AbbVie from a buy rating to a hold rating and reduced their price objective for the company from $167.00 to $156.00 in a research report on Monday, December 18th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $176.71.

AbbVie Stock Performance

ABBV stock traded up $0.67 during midday trading on Tuesday, hitting $179.20. 4,392,374 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 5,711,853. AbbVie Inc. has a twelve month low of $130.96 and a twelve month high of $182.89. The company has a quick ratio of 0.76, a current ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.02. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $173.79 and a 200-day simple moving average of $157.59. The stock has a market capitalization of $317.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 65.64, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.27 and a beta of 0.58.

AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Friday, February 2nd. The company reported $2.79 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.76 by $0.03. AbbVie had a net margin of 8.95% and a return on equity of 162.28%. The business had revenue of $14.30 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.02 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $3.60 earnings per share. AbbVies revenue was down 5.4% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts predict that AbbVie Inc. will post 11.15 earnings per share for the current year.

AbbVie Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 15th. Investors of record on Monday, April 15th will be given a dividend of $1.55 per share. This represents a $6.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.46%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, April 12th. AbbVies dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 227.11%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Azita Saleki-Gerhardt sold 52,870 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $173.71, for a total transaction of $9,184,047.70. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 243,944 shares of the companys stock, valued at $42,375,512.24. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other AbbVie news, EVP Nicholas Donoghoe sold 21,082 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $176.30, for a total value of $3,716,756.60. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 55,903 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,855,698.90. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, EVP Azita Saleki-Gerhardt sold 52,870 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $173.71, for a total transaction of $9,184,047.70. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 243,944 shares in the company, valued at approximately $42,375,512.24. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 383,324 shares of company stock valued at $67,780,003. 0.25% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

AbbVie Profile

(Free Report)

AbbVie Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Humira, an injection for autoimmune and intestinal Behcet's diseases, and pyoderma gangrenosum; Skyrizi to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic disease, and Crohn's disease; Rinvoq to treat rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, atopic dermatitis, axial spondyloarthropathy, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease; Imbruvica for the treatment of adult patients with blood cancers; Epkinly to treat lymphoma; Elahere to treat cancer; and Venclexta/Venclyxto to treat blood cancers.

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Crescent Point Energy Corp. (TSE:CPG  Free Report) (NYSE:CPG)  Equities researchers at Atb Cap Markets dropped their FY2025 earnings per share estimates for shares of Crescent Point Energy in a research report issued to clients and investors on Wednesday, March 20th. Atb Cap Markets analyst A. Arif now anticipates that the company will post earnings per share of $1.24 for the year, down from their previous estimate of $1.25. The consensus estimate for Crescent Point Energys current full-year earnings is $1.22 per share.

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CPG has been the subject of a number of other reports. ATB Capital decreased their price objective on Crescent Point Energy from C$13.00 to C$12.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, January 18th. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price objective on Crescent Point Energy from C$14.00 to C$14.50 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, March 21st. Raymond James reduced their target price on Crescent Point Energy from C$16.50 to C$14.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Friday, January 19th. CIBC reduced their target price on Crescent Point Energy from C$15.00 to C$14.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, January 16th. Finally, National Bankshares reduced their target price on Crescent Point Energy from C$19.00 to C$14.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, January 10th. Ten analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of C$13.71.

Crescent Point Energy Stock Down 0.6 %

Shares of Crescent Point Energy stock opened at C$10.81 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 0.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 54.04. Crescent Point Energy has a 12 month low of C$8.16 and a 12 month high of C$11.70. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of C$9.46 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$9.86. The stock has a market cap of C$6.70 billion, a PE ratio of 7.40, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -0.59 and a beta of 2.88.

Crescent Point Energy (TSE:CPG  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CPG) last released its earnings results on Thursday, February 29th. The company reported C$0.37 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of C$0.51 by C($0.14). The firm had revenue of C$1.01 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of C$1 billion. Crescent Point Energy had a net margin of 17.88% and a return on equity of 11.97%.

Insider Transactions at Crescent Point Energy

In other news, Senior Officer William Garret Holt acquired 49,309 shares of Crescent Point Energy stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 8th. The stock was bought at an average cost of C$10.15 per share, with a total value of C$500,486.35. 0.23% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Crescent Point Energy Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 15th will be given a dividend of $0.115 per share. This is a boost from Crescent Point Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.02. This represents a $0.46 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.26%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 14th. Crescent Point Energys dividend payout ratio is currently 31.51%.

About Crescent Point Energy

(Get Free Report)

Crescent Point Energy Corp., together with its subsidiaries, explores, develops, and produces oil and gas properties in Canada and the United States. The company focuses on crude oil, tight oil, natural gas liquids, shale gas, and natural gas reserves. Its properties are located in the provinces of Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba; and the states of North Dakota.

Further Reading

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Viking Fund Management LLC increased its holdings in British American Tobacco p.l.c. (NYSE:BTI  Free Report) by 10.0% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 176,800 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 16,000 shares during the period. Viking Fund Management LLCs holdings in British American Tobacco were worth $5,178,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Cyndeo Wealth Partners LLC boosted its stake in British American Tobacco by 2.7% during the 3rd quarter. Cyndeo Wealth Partners LLC now owns 12,608 shares of the companys stock valued at $396,000 after purchasing an additional 327 shares during the period. Rhumbline Advisers boosted its stake in British American Tobacco by 27.7% during the 3rd quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 1,521 shares of the companys stock valued at $48,000 after purchasing an additional 330 shares during the period. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. boosted its stake in British American Tobacco by 1.6% during the 3rd quarter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. now owns 23,906 shares of the companys stock valued at $759,000 after purchasing an additional 382 shares during the period. Benjamin F. Edwards & Company Inc. boosted its stake in British American Tobacco by 7.9% during the 2nd quarter. Benjamin F. Edwards & Company Inc. now owns 5,883 shares of the companys stock valued at $195,000 after purchasing an additional 432 shares during the period. Finally, First Manhattan Co. lifted its stake in shares of British American Tobacco by 10.8% in the 4th quarter. First Manhattan Co. now owns 4,487 shares of the companys stock worth $179,000 after acquiring an additional 437 shares during the period. 21.44% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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British American Tobacco Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE BTI traded down $0.17 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $29.88. The companys stock had a trading volume of 3,599,692 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,986,084. The company has a quick ratio of 0.59, a current ratio of 0.91 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.67. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $30.08 and a 200 day moving average price of $30.56. British American Tobacco p.l.c. has a one year low of $28.35 and a one year high of $37.65.

British American Tobacco Dividend Announcement

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, February 6th. Investors of record on Friday, December 20th will be issued a $0.7431 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 20th. This represents a $2.97 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 9.95%.

Separately, StockNews.com raised shares of British American Tobacco from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 29th.

Read Our Latest Research Report on BTI

British American Tobacco Company Profile

(Free Report)

British American Tobacco p.l.c. engages in the provision of tobacco and nicotine products to consumers worldwide. It also offers vapour, heated, and modern oral nicotine products; combustible cigarettes; and traditional oral products, such as snus and moist snuff. The company offers its products under the Vuse, glo, Velo, Grizzly, Kodiak, Dunhill, Kent, Lucky Strike, Pall Mall, Rothmans, Camel, Natural American Spirit, Newport, Vogue, Viceroy, Kool, Peter Stuyvesant, Craven A, State Express 555 and Shuang Xi brands.

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Canvas Wealth Advisors LLC lowered its stake in shares of Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:GSLC  Free Report) by 3.4% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 143,889 shares of the companys stock after selling 5,091 shares during the quarter. Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF comprises approximately 4.9% of Canvas Wealth Advisors LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 4th largest holding. Canvas Wealth Advisors LLC owned about 0.11% of Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF worth $13,557,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of GSLC. Annis Gardner Whiting Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new position in Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $30,000. Farmers & Merchants Trust Co of Chambersburg PA acquired a new stake in shares of Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $33,000. Anchor Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF during the 4th quarter worth approximately $33,000. Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $37,000. Finally, Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. grew its stake in shares of Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF by 329.4% during the 4th quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. now owns 468 shares of the companys stock worth $44,000 after purchasing an additional 359 shares during the period.

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Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF Stock Down 0.2 %

Shares of NYSEARCA GSLC traded down $0.18 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $102.84. 334,968 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 273,535. The firm has a market cap of $13.31 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.56 and a beta of 0.98. Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF has a twelve month low of $78.23 and a twelve month high of $104.23. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $99.42 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $92.28.

Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF Profile

The Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta U.S. Large Cap Equity ETF (GSLC) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in large cap equity. The fund tracks an index of US large-cap stocks comprising 4 sub-indexes: value, momentum, quality, and low volatility. The index uses multiple factors to pick stocks, and each sub-index receives equal weight.

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Pola Orbis (OTCMKTS:PORBF  Get Free Report) and Marui Group (OTCMKTS:MAURY  Get Free Report) are both consumer staples companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their institutional ownership, earnings, dividends, profitability, analyst recommendations, valuation and risk.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current recommendations for Pola Orbis and Marui Group, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Pola Orbis 0 0 1 0 3.00 Marui Group 0 0 0 0 N/A

Earnings and Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Pola Orbis $1.24 billion N/A $68.93 million $0.31 35.65 Marui Group $1.61 billion N/A $158.90 million $1.53 21.10

This table compares Pola Orbis and Marui Groups revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Marui Group has higher revenue and earnings than Pola Orbis. Marui Group is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Pola Orbis, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Profitability

This table compares Pola Orbis and Marui Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Pola Orbis 5.69% 7.56% 6.30% Marui Group 9.01% 7.93% 1.96%

Volatility & Risk

Pola Orbis has a beta of 0.39, indicating that its share price is 61% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Marui Group has a beta of 0.44, indicating that its share price is 56% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Marui Group beats Pola Orbis on 6 of the 9 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Pola Orbis

(Get Free Report)

Pola Orbis Holdings Inc., through its subsidiaries, develops, manufactures, and sells cosmetics and related products in Japan and internationally. It operates through Beauty Care and Real Estate segments. The Beauty Care segment offers cosmetics; skincare products; health foods; and fashion products, such as women's underwear, women's apparel, and jewelry under the POLA, ORBIS, Jurlique, H2O PLUS, THREE, DECENCIA, Amplitude, ITRIM, FIVEISM  THREE, and FUJIMI brand names. The Real Estate segment is involved in the leasing of office buildings and residential properties. The company also involves in the management and operation of buildings. It sells its products through department, directly operated retail, duty-free stores, Internet, and cosmetics stores, as well as through door-to-door sales, and mail-order sales. Pola Orbis Holdings Inc. was founded in 1929 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

About Marui Group

(Get Free Report)

Marui Group Co., Ltd., an investment holding company, engages in the retailing and FinTech businesses in Japan. The company engages in the design and construction of commercial facilities; advertising planning and production; property management; rental of real estate properties; small-amount short-term insurance policy business; and sale of investment trusts. It is also involved in the operation of websites; contract store opening and operation services; provision of credit card services; operation of Marui/Modi stores; investing and financing direct-to-consumer businesses; internet sales; specialty store; credit loan; collection and management of receivables; credit check; trucking and forwarding; software development; and operation of IT systems, and building management businesses. The company was founded in 1931 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

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Baker Ray Guarino adds honey mustard to corned beef on rye pastries at Perkatory Coffee Roasters at 725 Main St. in Middletown, Friday, March 8, 2024. Perkatory Coffee Roasters is expanding their cafe and roasting operation and now offers freshly baked goods. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

Joe and Johanna Perazella, the husband-and-wife team behind Perkatory Coffee Roasters, one of Connecticuts fastest-growing and most popular coffee brands, will be taking a break from expansion in 2024  allegedly.

Perkatory, which started with a Middletown cafe in 2018, recently launched a bakery and opened its fifth cafe, on Queen Street in Southington. Its their second in the city, another Perkatory is in Factory Square. There are also cafes in West Hartford (where they moved last year into a bigger location) and Branford. Plus the catering and wholesale business that puts Perkatorys coffee in places like the Guilford Marketplace, Dekes Bagels, Celtic Cavern, Cloak and Wand, Kinsmen Brewing and many, many more.

Head Baker Anthony DiChello holds a variety of pastries at Perkatory Coffee Roasters at 725 Main St. in Middletown, Friday, March 8, 2024. Perkatory Coffee Roasters is expanding their cafe and roasting operation and now offers freshly baked goods. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

The Perazellas have averaged opening one of their skate-punk-esque cafes  complete with colorful, tattoo-like art and a soundtrack that makes you feel like youre sipping java in a late-'90s Warped Tour green room  every year.

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It has, Joe Perazella said, been a lot.

We opened Queen Street a month ago and just last week, a place reached out. Theyre like, Hey, were selling our cafe. Are you interested? And I was like, Can I get a break, Perazella said with a laugh. Were taking this year off. I said that last year and we wound up moving West Hartford and starting this.

A variety of pastries available at Perkatory Coffee Roasters at 725 Main St. in Middletown, Friday, March 8, 2024. Perkatory Coffee Roasters is expanding their cafe and roasting operation and now offers freshly baked goods. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

The bakery, Baked by Perkatory, launched in November in the same Middletown building as the original cafe. The bakery menu follows suit with the drinks, combining classic flavors with an embrace of individual expression and experimentation that result in monthly specials like a corned beef-on-rye Danish. There are also French toast scones, bacon, egg and cheese empanadas, cheddar jalapeno scones, a key lime poppy Danish and more freshly baked cookies, coffees and croissants.

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I always like to do different, out-of-the-box things, baker Anthony DiChello said. This month we decided to do the rye bread Danish dough, which Ive never seen anyone do. We just put it together and it came out really good.

Corned beef on rye pastries at Perkatory Coffee Roasters at 725 Main St. in Middletown, Friday, March 8, 2024. Perkatory Coffee Roasters is expanding their cafe and roasting operation and now offers freshly baked goods. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

Every month, DiChello and fellow baker Ray Guarino said, they shoot for something you wont be able to find anywhere else. The inspiration comes in equal parts from what is happening that month (corned beef in March for St. Patricks Day) and whats available.

Some of the ingredients are so local they come from a farmers' market right next door to the bakery. The whole wheat flour is locally sourced, as is the butter. Guarino said theyre beginning to plan menus for spring based on some of the berries that might be available at local farms.

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Joe Perazella, co-owner of Perkatory Coffee Roasters, talks about the the new baking operation at the 725 Main St. business in Middletown, Friday, March 8, 2024. Dave Zajac/Hearst Connecticut Media

The baked goods can be found at all five of Perkatorys locations. DiChello and Guarino work through the night at least three nights a week to make sure fresh product are on their way to cafes no later than 7 a.m. The Loaded Goat Coffee and Running Brook Farms have also added Perkatorys baked goods to their menus.

And, as Perazella said, Perkatory is definitely done expanding for now  maybe. Hes been experimenting at home with bread and pizzas, something he said could make its way onto the bakery menu or, perhaps, another food venture.

Its possible. Its on the table, he said. My brother and I have been shooting around some ideas. Him and I have been trying to find ways to go into business together.
StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Textainer Group (NYSE:TGH  Free Report) in a report released on Sunday morning. The brokerage issued a hold rating on the transportation companys stock.

Textainer Group Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:TGH opened at $49.99 on Friday. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $49.83 and a 200 day moving average of $46.86. The company has a market cap of $2.12 billion, a PE ratio of 11.55 and a beta of 1.01. Textainer Group has a 12-month low of $30.22 and a 12-month high of $50.15. The company has a current ratio of 1.16, a quick ratio of 1.14 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.76.

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Textainer Group (NYSE:TGH  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 13th. The transportation company reported $1.13 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.05 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $190.10 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $195.71 million. Textainer Group had a net margin of 26.57% and a return on equity of 12.86%. Textainer Groups revenue was down 6.3% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Textainer Group will post 4.89 EPS for the current year.

Textainer Group Announces Dividend

Institutional Trading of Textainer Group

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 1st were paid a $0.30 dividend. This represents a $1.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.40%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 29th. Textainer Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 27.71%.

Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in TGH. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC purchased a new stake in Textainer Group during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $33,000. NBC Securities Inc. purchased a new position in Textainer Group during the third quarter valued at $42,000. Adirondack Trust Co. bought a new stake in Textainer Group in the 3rd quarter valued at $48,000. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new stake in Textainer Group in the 1st quarter worth $53,000. Finally, Longfellow Investment Management Co. LLC bought a new position in shares of Textainer Group during the 4th quarter valued at about $69,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 44.28% of the companys stock.

Textainer Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Textainer Group Holdings Limited, through its subsidiaries, engages in the purchase, ownership, management, leasing, and disposal of a fleet of intermodal containers worldwide. It operates through three segments: Container Ownership, Container Management, and Container Resale. The company's containers include standard and specialized dry freight, and refrigerated containers, as well as other special-purpose containers, which include tank, 45', pallet-wide, and other types of containers.

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Trust Co of the South bought a new stake in shares of Duke Energy Co. (NYSE:DUK  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm bought 11,802 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $1,145,000.

Several other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of DUK. CKW Financial Group acquired a new position in Duke Energy in the 3rd quarter worth about $25,000. Chilton Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Duke Energy in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $28,000. FSC Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new position in Duke Energy in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $29,000. Fairfield Bush & CO. bought a new position in Duke Energy in the 1st quarter worth approximately $40,000. Finally, Compass Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in Duke Energy in the 4th quarter worth approximately $41,000. 65.31% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts have commented on DUK shares. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on Duke Energy from $103.00 to $100.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, February 9th. Royal Bank of Canada raised Duke Energy from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $101.00 to $113.00 in a report on Wednesday, January 10th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on Duke Energy from $98.00 to $101.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, November 29th. BMO Capital Markets decreased their price objective on Duke Energy from $101.00 to $100.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, February 12th. Finally, Evercore ISI raised Duke Energy from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $90.00 to $108.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Duke Energy has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $100.00.

Insider Transactions at Duke Energy

In other news, EVP Louis E. Renjel sold 3,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, February 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.57, for a total transaction of $277,710.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 14,213 shares in the company, valued at $1,315,697.41. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.11% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Duke Energy Price Performance

DUK traded down $1.17 during trading on Tuesday, hitting $93.67. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,816,066 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,158,784. The firms 50 day moving average price is $94.11 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $92.86. The company has a quick ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 0.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50. Duke Energy Co. has a 12 month low of $83.06 and a 12 month high of $100.39. The stock has a market capitalization of $72.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.39, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.01 and a beta of 0.46.

Duke Energy (NYSE:DUK  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 8th. The utilities provider reported $1.51 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.53 by ($0.02). Duke Energy had a net margin of 9.78% and a return on equity of 8.93%. The business had revenue of $7.21 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.24 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.11 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 1.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts forecast that Duke Energy Co. will post 5.98 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Duke Energy Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, March 18th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 16th were given a dividend of $1.025 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 15th. This represents a $4.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.38%. Duke Energys payout ratio is currently 115.49%.

Duke Energy Company 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.

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Viking Fund Management LLC reduced its holdings in shares of Kimberly-Clark Co. (NYSE:KMB  Free Report) by 5.0% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 76,000 shares of the companys stock after selling 4,000 shares during the period. Kimberly-Clark accounts for approximately 1.8% of Viking Fund Management LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 15th biggest holding. Viking Fund Management LLCs holdings in Kimberly-Clark were worth $9,235,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. West Tower Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Kimberly-Clark during the second quarter worth about $25,000. DHJJ Financial Advisors Ltd. purchased a new position in shares of Kimberly-Clark in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $26,000. OFI Invest Asset Management purchased a new position in shares of Kimberly-Clark in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC purchased a new position in Kimberly-Clark in the 2nd quarter valued at $34,000. Finally, First Capital Advisors Group LLC. purchased a new position in Kimberly-Clark in the 2nd quarter valued at $37,000. 76.29% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Kimberly-Clark Price Performance

KMB traded up $0.91 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $126.09. 2,044,333 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,106,291. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $122.35 and its 200 day moving average price is $121.96. The stock has a market capitalization of $42.48 billion, a PE ratio of 24.25, a P/E/G ratio of 3.93 and a beta of 0.40. Kimberly-Clark Co. has a 1-year low of $116.32 and a 1-year high of $147.87. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.94, a current ratio of 0.82 and a quick ratio of 0.54.

Kimberly-Clark Increases Dividend

Kimberly-Clark ( NYSE:KMB Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, January 24th. The company reported $1.51 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.53 by ($0.02). Kimberly-Clark had a return on equity of 260.47% and a net margin of 8.63%. The company had revenue of $5 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.99 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.54 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up .7% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Kimberly-Clark Co. will post 6.83 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, April 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, March 8th will be paid a dividend of $1.22 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 7th. This represents a $4.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.87%. This is a positive change from Kimberly-Clarks previous quarterly dividend of $1.18. Kimberly-Clarks dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 93.85%.

Insider Activity at Kimberly-Clark

In other Kimberly-Clark news, insider Tristram Wilkinson sold 3,720 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, January 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $121.00, for a total transaction of $450,120.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 17,229 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,084,709. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other Kimberly-Clark news, Director Mark T. Smucker acquired 827 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, January 29th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $120.98 per share, for a total transaction of $100,050.46. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now directly owns 827 shares of the companys stock, valued at $100,050.46. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, insider Tristram Wilkinson sold 3,720 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, January 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $121.00, for a total value of $450,120.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 17,229 shares in the company, valued at $2,084,709. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.62% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

KMB has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. StockNews.com lowered shares of Kimberly-Clark from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday. Royal Bank of Canada lowered their target price on shares of Kimberly-Clark from $125.00 to $123.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, January 25th. Bank of America lowered Kimberly-Clark from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and lowered their price objective for the company from $135.00 to $115.00 in a report on Friday, December 15th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on Kimberly-Clark from $119.00 to $125.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Thursday, January 18th. Finally, Barclays decreased their price target on Kimberly-Clark from $128.00 to $124.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $130.36.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Kimberly-Clark

About Kimberly-Clark

(Free Report)

Kimberly-Clark Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and markets personal care and consumer tissue products in the United States. It operates through three segments: Personal Care, Consumer Tissue, and K-C Professional. The company's Personal Care segment offers disposable diapers, training and youth pants, swimpants, baby wipes, feminine and incontinence care products, reusable underwear, and other related products under the Huggies, Pull-Ups, Little Swimmers, GoodNites, DryNites, Sweety, Kotex, U by Kotex, Intimus, Thinx, Poise, Depend, Plenitud, Softex, and other brand names.

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Adriatic Metals (LON:ADT1  Get Free Report) had its target price lifted by Berenberg Bank from GBX 240 ($3.03) to GBX 250 ($3.16) in a report released on Tuesday, Digital Look reports. The brokerage presently has a buy rating on the stock. Berenberg Banks price target suggests a potential upside of 28.07% from the companys current price.

Adriatic Metals Stock Down 0.5 %

Shares of LON ADT1 traded down GBX 1 ($0.01) during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching GBX 195.20 ($2.47). 162,081 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 74,522. The company has a quick ratio of 23.92, a current ratio of 4.77 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 148.04. The stock has a market cap of 597.74 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -1,394.29 and a beta of 1.21. Adriatic Metals has a 1 year low of GBX 146 ($1.85) and a 1 year high of GBX 214 ($2.70). The firm has a 50-day moving average of GBX 177.24 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 178.09.

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Adriatic Metals Company Profile

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Further Reading

Adriatic Metals PLC, through its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration and development of precious and base metals. It explores for silver, zinc, lead, copper, gold, and barite deposits. The company's flagship project is the Vares Silver Project located in the Bosnia and Herzegovina. It also operates Raska Project located in Serbia.

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AIREA plc (LON:AIEA  Get Free Report) declared a dividend on Tuesday, March 26th, Upcoming.Co.Uk reports. Investors of record on Thursday, April 18th will be given a dividend of GBX 0.55 ($0.01) per share on Monday, May 20th. This represents a dividend yield of 1.86%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, April 18th. This is an increase from AIREAs previous dividend of $0.50. The official announcement can be viewed at this link.

AIREA Stock Down 1.7 %

AIEA opened at GBX 31.47 ($0.40) on Wednesday. The firms 50 day simple moving average is GBX 28.64 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is GBX 26.56. The company has a market capitalization of 13.01 million, a PE ratio of 1,066.67 and a beta of 1.05. AIREA has a 1-year low of GBX 21.36 ($0.27) and a 1-year high of GBX 40 ($0.51). The company has a current ratio of 2.91, a quick ratio of 1.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 14.48.

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About AIREA

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AIREA plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the designing and manufacture of floor coverings in the United Kingdom and internationally. The company offers carpet tiles and planks for architects, specifiers and contractors in the education, leisure, commercial, healthcare, and public sectors under the Burmatex brand name.

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AKITA Drilling Ltd. (OTCMKTS:AKTAF  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant increase in short interest in the month of March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 1,200 shares, an increase of 300.0% from the February 29th total of 300 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 2,600 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.5 days.

AKITA Drilling Stock Performance

OTCMKTS AKTAF remained flat at $1.22 during trading on Wednesday. 1,200 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,176. AKITA Drilling has a 52-week low of $0.86 and a 52-week high of $1.45. The firms fifty day moving average is $1.13 and its 200-day moving average is $1.14.

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AKITA Drilling Company Profile

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AKITA Drilling Ltd. operates as an oil and gas drilling contractor in Canada and the United States. It is involved in the drilling oil and gas wells, potash exploration and development wells, geothermal wells, disposal wells, and carbon storage wells, as well as wells to be developed into storage caverns for gas.

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Altfest L J & Co. Inc. lowered its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 3.9% during the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 7,910 shares of the companys stock after selling 317 shares during the quarter. Altfest L J & Co. Inc.s holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $4,611,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Procyon Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 15.5% during the 4th quarter. Procyon Advisors LLC now owns 3,824 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,229,000 after acquiring an additional 514 shares during the period. Parisi Gray Wealth Management lifted its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 58.9% during the 4th quarter. Parisi Gray Wealth Management now owns 5,423 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,161,000 after acquiring an additional 2,010 shares during the period. Planned Solutions Inc. bought a new position in Eli Lilly and Company during the 4th quarter valued at about $1,997,000. S.A. Mason LLC lifted its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 2.0% during the 4th quarter. S.A. Mason LLC now owns 1,786 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,041,000 after acquiring an additional 35 shares during the period. Finally, Highland Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 2.8% during the 4th quarter. Highland Capital Management LLC now owns 13,350 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,782,000 after acquiring an additional 360 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Eli Lilly and Company

In related news, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 1,180 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $645.60, for a total value of $761,808.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 99,542,630 shares of the companys stock, valued at $64,264,721,928. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Insiders sold a total of 195,055 shares of company stock valued at $125,254,657 in the last three months. 0.13% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Eli Lilly and Company Price Performance

LLY traded up $0.84 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $775.74. 1,002,283 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 3,214,925. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.69, a quick ratio of 0.73 and a current ratio of 0.94. Eli Lilly and Company has a 12-month low of $334.58 and a 12-month high of $800.78. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $725.15 and a 200 day simple moving average of $634.68. The company has a market cap of $737.08 billion, a P/E ratio of 133.55, a PEG ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 0.34.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $2.49 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.30 by $0.19. Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 15.36% and a return on equity of 51.22%. The business had revenue of $9.35 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.95 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.09 EPS. The companys revenue was up 28.1% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts forecast that Eli Lilly and Company will post 12.42 EPS for the current year.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

LLY has been the topic of several research analyst reports. BMO Capital Markets upped their target price on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $710.00 to $865.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $700.00 to $825.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $775.00 to $850.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, March 15th. TheStreet upgraded shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a c+ rating to a b rating in a research note on Friday, March 8th. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $815.00 price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Tuesday, February 20th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seventeen have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $689.52.

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Eli Lilly and Company Profile

(Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company 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; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity.

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Phoenix Group Holdings plc (LON:PHNX  Get Free Report) insider Andrew Briggs sold 40,039 shares of Phoenix Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of GBX 526 ($6.65), for a total value of 210,605.14 ($266,150.82).

Phoenix Group Stock Up 1.1 %

LON:PHNX traded up GBX 5.80 ($0.07) during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching GBX 543.80 ($6.87). 2,509,437 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,238,514. The businesss 50-day moving average price is GBX 503.49 and its two-hundred day moving average price is GBX 496. The stock has a market capitalization of 5.44 billion, a P/E ratio of -654.88, a P/E/G ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 0.74. Phoenix Group Holdings plc has a 1 year low of GBX 436.40 ($5.51) and a 1 year high of GBX 614.20 ($7.76). The company has a current ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 0.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 105.46.

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Phoenix Group Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 22nd. Investors of record on Thursday, April 11th will be issued a GBX 26.65 ($0.34) dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, April 11th. This represents a dividend yield of 5.46%. This is a positive change from Phoenix Groups previous dividend of $26.00. Phoenix Groups payout ratio is presently -6,341.46%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft dropped their price target on Phoenix Group from GBX 630 ($7.96) to GBX 540 ($6.82) and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, November 29th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on Phoenix Group from GBX 400 ($5.05) to GBX 415 ($5.24) and gave the company an underweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 6th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has issued a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of GBX 617 ($7.80).

Get Our Latest Analysis on Phoenix Group

Phoenix Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Phoenix Group Holdings plc operates in the long-term savings and retirement business in Europe. The company operates through four segments: UK Heritage, UK Open, Europe, and Management Services. It provides a range of pensions and savings products to support people across various stages of the savings life cycle.

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Shares of Arcus Biosciences, Inc. (NYSE:RCUS  Get Free Report) traded up 7.6% during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $17.91 and last traded at $17.91. 169,546 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 81% from the average session volume of 871,697 shares. The stock had previously closed at $16.65.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities analysts recently commented on the stock. Truist Financial reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $50.00 price target on shares of Arcus Biosciences in a research report on Monday. Wedbush reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $30.00 price target on shares of Arcus Biosciences in a research note on Thursday, February 22nd. Finally, Mizuho dropped their target price on shares of Arcus Biosciences from $51.00 to $42.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $41.25.

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Arcus Biosciences Stock Up 9.6 %

The company has a market capitalization of $1.66 billion, a P/E ratio of -4.25 and a beta of 0.82. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $17.03 and its 200 day simple moving average is $16.95.

Arcus Biosciences (NYSE:RCUS  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 21st. The company reported ($1.08) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($1.09) by $0.01. The business had revenue of $31.00 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $28.30 million. Arcus Biosciences had a negative net margin of 262.39% and a negative return on equity of 57.17%. Arcus Biosciencess quarterly revenue was down 8.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned ($0.93) EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Arcus Biosciences, Inc. will post -3.16 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Transactions at Arcus Biosciences

In other Arcus Biosciences news, COO Jennifer Jarrett sold 13,449 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $17.92, for a total transaction of $241,006.08. Following the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 226,804 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,064,327.68. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In related news, CFO Robert C. Goeltz II sold 2,004 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $20.00, for a total value of $40,080.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 51,831 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,036,620. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, COO Jennifer Jarrett sold 13,449 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $17.92, for a total transaction of $241,006.08. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 226,804 shares in the company, valued at $4,064,327.68. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 50,883 shares of company stock valued at $992,267. 13.80% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of Arcus Biosciences

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. BluePath Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Arcus Biosciences in the third quarter valued at $28,000. GAMMA Investing LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Arcus Biosciences during the 4th quarter worth $31,000. Osaic Holdings Inc. increased its holdings in Arcus Biosciences by 51.4% in the 2nd quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 1,620 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after buying an additional 550 shares during the period. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio acquired a new position in shares of Arcus Biosciences in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $36,000. Finally, Captrust Financial Advisors boosted its position in shares of Arcus Biosciences by 402.9% during the 2nd quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 2,072 shares of the companys stock worth $53,000 after acquiring an additional 1,660 shares in the last quarter. 92.89% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Arcus Biosciences

(Get Free Report)

Arcus Biosciences, Inc, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, develops and commercializes cancer therapies in the United States. The company's pipeline products include Domvanalimab, an anti-TIGIT antibody, which is in Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trial; and AB308, an investigational anti-TIGIT monoclonal antibody, which is in Phase 1b clinical trial to study people with advanced solid and hematologic malignancies.

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Bancolombia S.A. (NYSE:CIB  Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Thursday, March 21st, Wall Street Journal reports. Investors of record on Monday, April 1st will be given a dividend of 0.8118 per share by the bank on Thursday, April 11th. This represents a $3.25 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 9.25%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 28th.

Bancolombia has raised its dividend payment by an average of 39.9% per year over the last three years. Bancolombia has a dividend payout ratio of 53.0% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Research analysts expect Bancolombia to earn $6.01 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $3.25 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 54.1%.

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Bancolombia Stock Up 2.0 %

CIB opened at $35.09 on Wednesday. Bancolombia has a 12-month low of $22.95 and a 12-month high of $35.31. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a current ratio of 1.03 and a quick ratio of 1.02. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $32.37 and a two-hundred day moving average of $29.44.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Bancolombia

Bancolombia ( NYSE:CIB Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 20th. The bank reported $1.58 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.32 by $0.26. Bancolombia had a net margin of 13.51% and a return on equity of 18.46%. The company had revenue of $1.77 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.68 billion. On average, equities research analysts expect that Bancolombia will post 5.69 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in CIB. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. boosted its stake in Bancolombia by 12.0% during the 1st quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 5,173 shares of the banks stock worth $221,000 after purchasing an additional 553 shares during the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. boosted its stake in Bancolombia by 14.2% during the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 16,862 shares of the banks stock worth $719,000 after purchasing an additional 2,099 shares during the last quarter. US Bancorp DE boosted its stake in Bancolombia by 7.7% during the 1st quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 8,982 shares of the banks stock worth $383,000 after purchasing an additional 643 shares during the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. boosted its stake in Bancolombia by 13.7% during the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 2,719 shares of the banks stock worth $117,000 after purchasing an additional 327 shares during the last quarter. Finally, BlackRock Inc. boosted its position in shares of Bancolombia by 25.1% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 2,227,183 shares of the banks stock valued at $95,011,000 after acquiring an additional 446,778 shares during the last quarter.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, HSBC lowered shares of Bancolombia from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, January 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and five have assigned a hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $30.65.

View Our Latest Report on Bancolombia

About Bancolombia

(Get Free Report)

Bancolombia SA provides banking products and services in Colombia, Panama, Puerto Rico, El Salvador, Bermuda, and Guatemala. The company operates through nine segments: Banking Colombia, Banking Panama, Banking El Salvador, Banking Guatemala, Trust, Investment Banking, Brokerage, International Banking, and All Other.

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Avelo Airlines launched it's inaugural flight from Tweed New Haven Regional Airport to Orlando on November 3, 2021. Arnold Gold / Hearst Connecticut Media An Avelo Airlines plane prepares to take off on the airline's inaugural flight from Tweed New Haven Regional Airport to Orlando on Nov. 3, 2021. Arnold Gold / Hearst Connecticut Media Jim Olson, Avelo Airlines' head of brand and communication, center, flanked by Connecticut. Ned Lamont, right, and New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker, left, speaks on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at a State Capitol press conference announcing Avelo's new flights to Houston, St. Louis and Traverse City, Mich. Jim Michaud / Hearst CT Media Group Two Avelo Airlines Boeing 737s sit on the tarmac at Tweed New Haven Regional Airport Arnold Gold / Hearst Connecticut Media The Avelo Airlines inaugural flight from Tweed New Haven Regional Airport to Orlando is doused by water from firetrucks before departing on Nov. 3, 2021. Arnold Gold / Hearst Connecticut Media An Avelo Airlines plane prepares to take off on the airlines inaugural flight from Tweed New Haven Regional Airport to Orlando Nov. 3, 2021. Arnold Gold / Hearst Connecticut Media file photo

NEW HAVEN  Avelo Airlines will begin flights between Tweed New Haven Regional Airport and Lakeland, Fla. June 13  making New Haven the first scheduled destination between the Central Florida airport and anywhere in the U.S., Avelo announced Wednesday.

A Tampa Bay television station, WTSP-10, reported that Avelo's arrival will mark the first scheduled commercial service out of Lakeland in 35 years and its first passenger service of any kind in 12 years. Lakeland's last service was charter service but the airline that flew those routes went bankrupt, the station reported.

Lakeland International Airport will be Avelo's 25th destination from Tweed and its ninth Florida destination from Tweed, Avelo said in a release. The announcement came exactly one week after Avelo announced new service from Tweed to Houston, St. Louis and Traverse City, Mich.

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The twice-weekly flights, on Thursdays and Sundays, will be on Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft and will feature introductory one-way fares starting at $72, not including reserved seat selection or checked or carry-on luggage. One personal item such as a laptop or small backpack that fits under the seat in front of you is free.

Lakeland is located off Interstate 4 between Tampa and Orlando  both of which Avelo also flies to from New Haven. Avelo's other Florida routes include Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Daytona Beach, Sarasota / Bradenton, Destin / Fort Walton Beach and West Palm Beach.

We are excited to offer Connecticut travelers their 25th nonstop destination," said Avelo Chairman and CEO Andrew Levy. "As one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, we are proud to be the only airline serving Lakeland."

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Levy said the "small hometown airport feel" of Lakeland is similar to the experience travellers get at Tweed Airport.

Tweed New Haven Airport is a key partner in our overall efforts to attract business and job growth in the New Haven region," said Gov. Ned Lamont. "More flights and travel options help ensure that the region has the reliable transportation opportunities needed for our economic growth.

Lakeland is located an hour from Florida's Gulf Coast beaches. Its attractions include the Detroit Tigers' spring training facility in Lakeland and the the Legoland Florida Resort in nearby Winter Haven.

Avelo also will begin flights to Houston, St. Louis and Traverse City in June.

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The Houston service flies on Mondays and Fridays beginnig June 14 to Houston's smaller William P. Hobby Airport.

The St. Louis service flies Thursdays and Sundays, beginning June 13, to St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

The weekly Traverse City service, which begins June 15 on Saturdays, is to Cherry Capital Airport. Traverse City, known as the Cherry Capital of the World, is located on Grand Traverse Bay on the coast of Lake Michigan in the northeast reaches of lower Michigan. It is the largest city in the 21-county Northern Michigan region.

With those four new destinations, Avelo will serve a total of 25 nonstop destinations from Tweed  the most from any airport in Connecticut, the airline has said. The destinations are located in 10 states and Puerto Rico.

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Avelo currently is the only airline that serves Tweed New Haven Regional Airport.

Tweed is owned by the City of New Haven, managed by The New HVN, LLC, a subsidiary of Goldman Sachs-owned Avports, LLC. It is located half in New Haven and half in East Haven.

The additional air service comes as Tweed is in the process of seeking approvals to extend its runway from 5,600 feet to 6,575 feet and build a new 80,000-square-foot, four-gate terminal on the East Haven side of the airport. A new airport entrance would be off Proto Drive in East Haven, with access off the town's Coe Avenue.

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Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:BK  Get Free Report)s stock had its sector perform rating reiterated by stock analysts at Royal Bank of Canada in a report released on Wednesday, Benzinga reports. They currently have a $58.00 price objective on the banks stock. Royal Bank of Canadas target price would indicate a potential upside of 2.17% from the companys previous close.

Several other research analysts also recently commented on BK. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised Bank of New York Mellon from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and set a $54.50 target price for the company in a research note on Monday, December 18th. Morgan Stanley raised Bank of New York Mellon from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $52.00 to $62.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 30th. UBS Group boosted their price target on Bank of New York Mellon from $54.00 to $62.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, January 9th. Finally, Citigroup boosted their price target on Bank of New York Mellon from $60.00 to $65.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, February 14th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $55.65.

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Bank of New York Mellon Price Performance

BK stock traded up $0.16 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $56.77. The company had a trading volume of 372,322 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,009,879. The company has a market capitalization of $42.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.30, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.20 and a beta of 1.11. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $55.36 and a 200-day moving average price of $49.66. Bank of New York Mellon has a 1-year low of $39.65 and a 1-year high of $57.45. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.87, a current ratio of 0.72 and a quick ratio of 0.72.

Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:BK  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, January 12th. The bank reported $1.28 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.12 by $0.16. The business had revenue of $4.31 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.30 billion. Bank of New York Mellon had a return on equity of 11.63% and a net margin of 10.01%. Bank of New York Mellons revenue for the quarter was up 10.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.30 earnings per share. Equities research analysts expect that Bank of New York Mellon will post 5.26 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Activity at Bank of New York Mellon

In other Bank of New York Mellon news, VP Hanneke Smits sold 15,425 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $55.16, for a total transaction of $850,843.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 119,656 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,600,224.96. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In related news, VP Catherine Keating sold 4,498 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $54.81, for a total value of $246,535.38. Following the transaction, 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 SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, VP Hanneke Smits sold 15,425 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $55.16, for a total value of $850,843.00. Following the completion of the transaction, 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. 0.14% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Bank of New York Mellon

A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its stake in Bank of New York Mellon by 6.1% during the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 74,501,451 shares of the banks stock valued at $3,877,801,000 after acquiring an additional 4,293,751 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp lifted its stake in Bank of New York Mellon by 1.7% during the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 31,433,413 shares of the banks stock valued at $1,399,416,000 after acquiring an additional 526,561 shares in the last quarter. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership lifted its stake in Bank of New York Mellon by 0.7% during the 4th quarter. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership now owns 19,793,539 shares of the banks stock valued at $1,030,254,000 after acquiring an additional 144,162 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new position in Bank of New York Mellon during the 4th quarter valued at $813,701,000. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in Bank of New York Mellon by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 15,302,537 shares of the banks stock valued at $693,747,000 after acquiring an additional 227,602 shares in the last quarter. 85.31% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Bank of New York Mellon

(Get 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.

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Canadian Pacific Kansas City (TSE:CP  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CP) had its target price lifted by equities research analysts at CIBC from C$124.00 to C$130.00 in a research report issued to clients and investors on Wednesday, BayStreet.CA reports. The firm currently has an outperform rating on the stock. CIBCs target price would indicate a potential upside of 8.44% from the stocks previous close.

Other analysts also recently issued reports about the company. Stephens increased their target price on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$78.00 to C$83.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. National Bankshares boosted their target price on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$107.00 to C$112.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Thursday, December 21st. Sanford C. Bernstein upped their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$112.00 to C$117.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Monday, February 5th. Scotiabank lowered shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and lifted their price target for the stock from C$120.00 to C$126.00 in a research note on Monday. Finally, Barclays increased their price objective on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$115.00 to C$120.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Canadian Pacific Kansas City currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of C$116.75.

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Canadian Pacific Kansas City Stock Up 1.3 %

Shares of TSE:CP traded up C$1.50 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching C$119.88. The companys stock had a trading volume of 237,455 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,167,950. Canadian Pacific Kansas City has a 12-month low of C$94.45 and a 12-month high of C$123.37. The firm has a market capitalization of C$111.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.48, a PEG ratio of 2.32 and a beta of 0.77. The firm has a 50 day moving average of C$114.36 and a 200-day moving average of C$105.77. The company has a quick ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 0.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 53.85.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (TSE:CP  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CP) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 30th. The company reported C$1.18 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of C$1.12 by C$0.06. The company had revenue of C$3.78 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of C$3.66 billion. Canadian Pacific Kansas City had a return on equity of 9.65% and a net margin of 31.28%. On average, research analysts anticipate that Canadian Pacific Kansas City will post 4.3455344 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Transactions at Canadian Pacific Kansas City

In other news, Senior Officer John Kenneth Brooks sold 27,505 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$86.33, for a total value of C$2,374,638.67. In other Canadian Pacific Kansas City news, Senior Officer James Dominic Luther Clements sold 7,828 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$118.91, for a total value of C$930,859.57. Also, Senior Officer John Kenneth Brooks sold 27,505 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$86.33, for a total value of C$2,374,638.67. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 37,833 shares of company stock valued at $3,612,023. 0.03% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates a transcontinental freight railway in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The company transports bulk commodities, including grain, coal, potash, fertilizers, and sulphur; merchandise freight, such as forest products, energy, chemicals and plastics, metals, minerals, consumer products, and automotive; and intermodal traffic comprising retail goods in overseas containers.

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Cornell Pochily Investment Advisors Inc. bought a new position in The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 1,413 shares of the insurance providers stock, valued at approximately $269,000.

Other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. VisionPoint Advisory Group LLC bought a new position in Travelers Companies during the second quarter valued at approximately $26,000. FWL Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in Travelers Companies in the 4th quarter worth $28,000. First Command Advisory Services Inc. bought a new stake in Travelers Companies in the third quarter worth $26,000. Arlington Trust Co LLC bought a new stake in Travelers Companies in the 3rd quarter worth $27,000. Finally, Country Trust Bank grew its stake in shares of Travelers Companies by 548.1% in the third quarter. Country Trust Bank now owns 175 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 148 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 82.45% of the companys stock.

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Travelers Companies Price Performance

Shares of Travelers Companies stock traded up $2.09 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $227.42. The companys stock had a trading volume of 215,643 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,500,199. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $216.60 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $189.25. The company has a market cap of $52.11 billion, a PE ratio of 17.62, a PEG ratio of 1.17 and a beta of 0.58. The Travelers Companies, Inc. has a 12-month low of $157.33 and a 12-month high of $227.93. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32, a quick ratio of 0.34 and a current ratio of 0.34.

Travelers Companies Dividend Announcement

Travelers Companies ( NYSE:TRV Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, January 19th. The insurance provider reported $7.01 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $5.10 by $1.91. Travelers Companies had a net margin of 7.23% and a return on equity of 13.68%. The business had revenue of $10.93 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.18 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $3.40 EPS. The companys revenue was up 13.4% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts expect that The Travelers Companies, Inc. will post 17.67 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Investors of record on Friday, March 8th will be paid a dividend of $1.00 per share. This represents a $4.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.76%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 7th. Travelers Companiess payout ratio is presently 31.27%.

Insider Activity at Travelers Companies

In other news, SVP Paul E. Munson sold 2,121 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $212.86, for a total transaction of $451,476.06. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 719 shares in the company, valued at approximately $153,046.34. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other Travelers Companies news, Vice Chairman William H. Heyman sold 4,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $215.06, for a total transaction of $967,770.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 255,178 shares in the company, valued at $54,878,580.68. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, SVP Paul E. Munson sold 2,121 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, January 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $212.86, for a total value of $451,476.06. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 719 shares in the company, valued at approximately $153,046.34. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders sold 109,775 shares of company stock valued at $23,343,903. Insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

TRV has been the topic of several recent research reports. UBS Group upped their price target on Travelers Companies from $205.00 to $225.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price objective on Travelers Companies from $166.00 to $186.00 and gave the company a sell rating in a research report on Monday, January 22nd. HSBC assumed coverage on Travelers Companies in a report on Thursday, December 28th. They set a hold rating and a $203.00 price target on the stock. Raymond James boosted their target price on Travelers Companies from $220.00 to $245.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a research report on Monday, January 22nd. Finally, Janney Montgomery Scott assumed coverage on shares of Travelers Companies in a report on Wednesday, December 20th. They set a buy rating and a $215.00 price target on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, thirteen have given a hold rating, four have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Travelers Companies currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $201.38.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on TRV

Travelers Companies Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Travelers Companies, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance.

Further Reading

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Bar Harbor Wealth Management lessened its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 0.9% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 78,863 shares of the companys stock after selling 697 shares during the period. Eli Lilly and Company makes up about 3.4% of Bar Harbor Wealth Managements portfolio, making the stock its 4th biggest holding. Bar Harbor Wealth Managements holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $45,971,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in LLY. Simon Quick Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 10.5% in the 4th quarter. Simon Quick Advisors LLC now owns 2,927 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,706,000 after acquiring an additional 278 shares during the period. Liontrust Investment Partners LLP acquired a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company during the 3rd quarter worth about $8,326,000. Armstrong Fleming & Moore Inc acquired a new stake in Eli Lilly and Company during the 2nd quarter worth about $357,000. Redhawk Wealth Advisors Inc. grew its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 0.9% during the 3rd quarter. Redhawk Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 6,986 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,752,000 after acquiring an additional 65 shares during the period. Finally, Assenagon Asset Management S.A. grew its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 4.0% during the 3rd quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. now owns 474,940 shares of the companys stock valued at $255,105,000 after acquiring an additional 18,079 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock.

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Insider Transactions at Eli Lilly and Company

In related news, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 78,573 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, January 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $648.07, for a total value of $50,920,804.11. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 99,333,810 shares of the companys stock, valued at $64,375,262,246.70. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In the last three months, insiders sold 195,055 shares of company stock valued at $125,254,657. Insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on LLY shares. Morgan Stanley raised their target price on Eli Lilly and Company from $805.00 to $950.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, February 16th. Barclays raised their price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $680.00 to $810.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. DZ Bank lowered shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $820.00 price target on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, February 21st. Bank of America raised their price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $800.00 to $1,000.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, March 1st. Finally, Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed an overweight rating and issued a $815.00 price target on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Tuesday, February 20th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seventeen have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $689.52.

View Our Latest Stock Report on LLY

Eli Lilly and Company Price Performance

Eli Lilly and Company stock opened at $775.19 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $736.55 billion, a P/E ratio of 133.65, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 0.34. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $725.15 and a 200-day simple moving average of $634.68. Eli Lilly and Company has a 12-month low of $323.26 and a 12-month high of $800.78. The company has a current ratio of 0.94, a quick ratio of 0.73 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.69.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $2.49 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.30 by $0.19. The business had revenue of $9.35 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.95 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 15.36% and a return on equity of 51.22%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 28.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $2.09 EPS. Equities analysts expect that Eli Lilly and Company will post 12.42 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Eli Lilly and Company Company Profile

(Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company 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; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity.

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Fidelis Insurance (NYSE:FIHL  Get Free Report) is one of 95 public companies in the Fire, marine, & casualty insurance industry, but how does it weigh in compared to its peers? We will compare Fidelis Insurance to related businesses based on the strength of its profitability, analyst recommendations, risk, institutional ownership, dividends, earnings and valuation.

Profitability

This table compares Fidelis Insurance and its peers net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Fidelis Insurance 59.30% 20.23% 4.22% Fidelis Insurance Competitors 3.20% -12.06% 0.75%

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Fidelis Insurance and its peers revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Fidelis Insurance $3.59 billion $2.13 billion 0.98 Fidelis Insurance Competitors $16.14 billion $2.98 billion 73.12

Analyst Ratings

Fidelis Insurances peers have higher revenue and earnings than Fidelis Insurance. Fidelis Insurance is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its peers, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for Fidelis Insurance and its peers, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Fidelis Insurance 0 4 4 0 2.50 Fidelis Insurance Competitors 667 3315 3028 208 2.38

Fidelis Insurance currently has a consensus price target of $18.00, indicating a potential downside of 3.85%. As a group, Fire, marine, & casualty insurance companies have a potential downside of 0.19%. Given Fidelis Insurances peers higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Fidelis Insurance has less favorable growth aspects than its peers.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

39.5% of Fidelis Insurance shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 56.6% of shares of all Fire, marine, & casualty insurance companies are held by institutional investors. 14.5% of shares of all Fire, marine, & casualty insurance companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Dividends

Fidelis Insurance pays an annual dividend of $0.40 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.1%. Fidelis Insurance pays out 2.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, Fire, marine, & casualty insurance companies pay a dividend yield of 1.1% and pay out 13.5% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Fidelis Insurance is clearly a better dividend stock than its peers, given its higher yield and lower payout ratio.

Fidelis Insurance Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Fidelis Insurance Holdings Limited, together with its subsidiaries, provides insurance and reinsurance products in Bermuda, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. It operates in three segments: Specialty, Reinsurance, and Bespoke segments. The Specialty segment offers aviation and aerospace, energy, marine, property direct and facultative, and other specialty risk solutions. The Reinsurance segment provides property, retrocession, and whole account reinsurance solutions. The Bespoke segment offers customized risk solutions for clients that include credit and political risk, and other risk transfer opportunities. The company is also involved in specialty treaty reinsurance, and surety bonds and guarantees activities; and upstream energy, energy liability, and marine businesses; and provision of product recall and contamination, and marketing services. Fidelis Insurance Holdings Limited was incorporated in 2014 and is headquartered in Pembroke, Bermuda.

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Michelmersh Brick Holdings plc (LON:MBH  Get Free Report) announced a dividend on Tuesday, March 26th, Upcoming.Co.Uk reports. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 6th will be given a dividend of GBX 3 ($0.04) per share on Wednesday, July 10th. This represents a dividend yield of 2.96%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 6th. This is an increase from Michelmersh Bricks previous dividend of $1.50. The official announcement can be viewed at this link.

Michelmersh Brick Price Performance

Shares of MBH opened at GBX 104.25 ($1.32) on Wednesday. The business has a 50-day moving average of GBX 98.26 and a 200-day moving average of GBX 90.49. Michelmersh Brick has a 1 year low of GBX 75 ($0.95) and a 1 year high of GBX 108 ($1.36). The company has a market capitalization of 97.66 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 1,045.00 and a beta of 0.94. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.20, a current ratio of 1.75 and a quick ratio of 1.56.

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About Michelmersh Brick

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Michelmersh Brick Holdings plc, through its subsidiaries, engages in the manufacture and sale of bricks and brick prefabricated products in the United Kingdom and rest of Europe. It offers extruded wire cut facing bricks, clay pavers, paving accessories, and special shaped products under the Blockleys brand; monotone color blends in rustic, drag wire, smooth, and sand faced textures under the Carlton brand; various bricks under the Floren.be brand; and clamp-fired stock facing bricks in various textural finishes under the Freshfield Lane brand.

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Mohawk Industries, Inc. (NYSE:MHK  Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $127.75 and last traded at $127.70, with a volume of 61665 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $125.10.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of analysts recently commented on the stock. TheStreet upgraded shares of Mohawk Industries from a d+ rating to a c- rating in a research note on Monday, March 4th. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price target on Mohawk Industries from $105.00 to $100.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research report on Monday, January 22nd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised Mohawk Industries from a hold rating to a buy rating and increased their price objective for the stock from $98.00 to $152.00 in a report on Monday, February 12th. StockNews.com raised Mohawk Industries from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, February 17th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada increased their price target on shares of Mohawk Industries from $101.00 to $106.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Monday, February 12th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Mohawk Industries currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $117.56.

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Read Our Latest Analysis on MHK

Mohawk Industries Trading Up 2.5 %

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a quick ratio of 0.97 and a current ratio of 1.78. The stock has a market cap of $8.17 billion, a P/E ratio of -18.44 and a beta of 1.33. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $113.45 and a 200-day moving average price of $98.31.

Mohawk Industries (NYSE:MHK  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Friday, February 9th. The company reported $1.96 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.86 by $0.10. Mohawk Industries had a negative net margin of 3.95% and a positive return on equity of 7.52%. The business had revenue of $2.61 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.56 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.32 earnings per share. Mohawk Industriess quarterly revenue was down 1.4% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts expect that Mohawk Industries, Inc. will post 9.59 EPS for the current year.

Insider Transactions at Mohawk Industries

In other Mohawk Industries news, VP Rodney David Patton sold 1,551 shares of Mohawk Industries stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $119.51, for a total transaction of $185,360.01. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 15,321 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,831,012.71. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 17.20% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of Mohawk Industries

Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of Mohawk Industries by 4.7% in the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 4,953 shares of the companys stock worth $615,000 after buying an additional 224 shares during the period. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund bought a new position in shares of Mohawk Industries during the first quarter valued at about $1,043,000. MetLife Investment Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Mohawk Industries by 23.2% during the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 14,929 shares of the companys stock worth $1,854,000 after purchasing an additional 2,809 shares during the period. Panagora Asset Management Inc. increased its holdings in Mohawk Industries by 98.7% during the 1st quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 10,628 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,320,000 after purchasing an additional 5,280 shares during the period. Finally, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS raised its position in Mohawk Industries by 6.6% during the 1st quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 7,341 shares of the companys stock valued at $912,000 after purchasing an additional 455 shares during the last quarter. 78.98% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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, Latin America, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Global Ceramic, Flooring North America, and Flooring Rest of the World.

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Patriot Investment Management Group Inc. lifted its stake in Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report) by 13.2% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 3,560 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after purchasing an additional 416 shares during the period. Patriot Investment Management Group Inc.s holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $392,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of ABT. Zevenbergen Capital Investments LLC grew its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 0.6% in the 3rd quarter. Zevenbergen Capital Investments LLC now owns 21,419 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $2,074,000 after buying an additional 130 shares during the period. Rockland Trust Co. grew its holdings in Abbott Laboratories by 1.5% in the third quarter. Rockland Trust Co. now owns 91,868 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $8,897,000 after purchasing an additional 1,343 shares during the period. VisionPoint Advisory Group LLC increased its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 7.4% during the third quarter. VisionPoint Advisory Group LLC now owns 3,106 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $301,000 after purchasing an additional 215 shares in the last quarter. Whittier Trust Co. lifted its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 1.4% during the third quarter. Whittier Trust Co. now owns 373,375 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $36,161,000 after purchasing an additional 5,058 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Boston Partners grew its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 634.6% in the 3rd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 29,758 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $2,882,000 after buying an additional 25,707 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 75.18% of the companys stock.

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Abbott Laboratories Stock Performance

Shares of Abbott Laboratories stock traded up $1.70 on Wednesday, hitting $113.20. 837,606 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 5,639,014. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a quick ratio of 1.16 and a current ratio of 1.64. The stock has a market capitalization of $196.42 billion, a PE ratio of 34.21, a PEG ratio of 2.65 and a beta of 0.75. Abbott Laboratories has a 1 year low of $89.67 and a 1 year high of $121.64. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $115.18 and a 200-day simple moving average of $106.29.

Abbott Laboratories Announces Dividend

Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.19 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $1.19. The business had revenue of $10.24 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.19 billion. Abbott Laboratories had a return on equity of 20.65% and a net margin of 14.27%. Abbott Laboratoriess revenue for the quarter was up 1.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.03 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Abbott Laboratories will post 4.62 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, April 15th will be given a $0.55 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, April 12th. This represents a $2.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.94%. Abbott Laboratoriess payout ratio is currently 67.48%.

Insider Activity

In other Abbott Laboratories news, VP John A. Jr. Mccoy sold 472 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $118.50, for a total transaction of $55,932.00. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 18,760 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,223,060. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In other Abbott Laboratories news, EVP Andrea F. Wainer sold 42,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction 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 owns 65,027 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,315,537.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, VP John A. Jr. Mccoy sold 472 shares of Abbott Laboratories stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $118.50, for a total value of $55,932.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 18,760 shares in the company, valued at $2,223,060. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 56,435 shares of company stock worth $6,451,298 in the last three months. Company insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages have issued reports on ABT. TheStreet upgraded Abbott Laboratories from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a research note on Thursday, December 21st. Raymond James upped their price target on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $124.00 to $127.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Citigroup lifted their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $123.00 to $126.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, January 25th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price target on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $116.00 to $121.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 13th. Finally, Barclays increased their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $133.00 to $141.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $120.00.

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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.

Further Reading

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).

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Sawyer & Company Inc trimmed its holdings in shares of Sysco Co. (NYSE:SYY  Free Report) by 5.3% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 69,731 shares of the companys stock after selling 3,939 shares during the period. Sysco comprises approximately 2.2% of Sawyer & Company Incs portfolio, making the stock its 8th largest position. Sawyer & Company Incs holdings in Sysco were worth $5,099,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. BlackRock Inc. raised its stake in shares of Sysco by 1.7% during the second quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 32,931,823 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,443,541,000 after acquiring an additional 549,086 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its stake in shares of Sysco by 1.5% during the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 24,451,298 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,814,286,000 after acquiring an additional 357,246 shares during the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. raised its stake in shares of Sysco by 11.0% during the third quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 10,859,690 shares of the companys stock valued at $717,283,000 after acquiring an additional 1,076,287 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Sysco by 1.8% during the first quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 8,909,697 shares of the companys stock valued at $686,254,000 after acquiring an additional 161,756 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Longview Partners Guernsey LTD raised its stake in shares of Sysco by 10.7% during the second quarter. Longview Partners Guernsey LTD now owns 8,082,858 shares of the companys stock valued at $599,748,000 after acquiring an additional 784,549 shares during the last quarter. 83.41% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Sysco Trading Up 1.5 %

NYSE:SYY opened at $82.14 on Wednesday. The companys 50 day moving average price is $79.30 and its 200-day moving average price is $73.17. Sysco Co. has a 52 week low of $62.24 and a 52 week high of $82.89. The company has a quick ratio of 0.80, a current ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.00. The stock has a market cap of $40.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.78, a PEG ratio of 1.65 and a beta of 1.16.

Sysco Announces Dividend

Sysco ( NYSE:SYY Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 30th. The company reported $0.89 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.88 by $0.01. Sysco had a net margin of 2.69% and a return on equity of 105.22%. The firm had revenue of $19.29 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $19.32 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $0.80 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 3.7% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Sysco Co. will post 4.3 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, April 26th. Investors of record on Friday, April 5th will be issued a $0.50 dividend. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.43%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, April 4th. Syscos dividend payout ratio is currently 48.90%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, CAO Neil Russell sold 1,722 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $80.00, for a total value of $137,760.00. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer now owns 24,082 shares in the company, valued at $1,926,560. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 0.58% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

SYY has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Sysco from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 1st. Barclays increased their price target on shares of Sysco from $85.00 to $90.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. Stephens increased their price target on shares of Sysco from $80.00 to $90.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price target on shares of Sysco from $84.00 to $87.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, March 19th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on shares of Sysco from $85.00 to $90.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $85.38.

View Our Latest Stock Report on SYY

Sysco Profile

(Free Report)

Sysco Corporation, through its subsidiaries, engages in the marketing and distribution of various food and related products to the foodservice or food-away-from-home industry in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and internationally. It operates through U.S. Foodservice Operations, International Foodservice Operations, SYGMA, and Other segments.

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Vision Capital Management Inc. decreased its position in Bank of America Co. (NYSE:BAC) by 0.7% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 57,919 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 437 shares during the period. Vision Capital Management Inc.s holdings in Bank of America were worth $1,950,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Roundview Capital LLC boosted its holdings in Bank of America by 1.5% during the first quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 135,764 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $5,596,000 after buying an additional 2,013 shares in the last quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P raised its position in Bank of America by 150.3% during the first quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P now owns 1,985 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $82,000 after acquiring an additional 1,192 shares during the last quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC raised its position in Bank of America by 4.2% during the first quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 405,098 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $16,698,000 after acquiring an additional 16,319 shares during the last quarter. First Western Trust Bank acquired a new position in Bank of America during the first quarter worth about $586,000. Finally, Pearl River Capital LLC acquired a new position in Bank of America during the first quarter worth about $534,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 70.71% of the companys stock.

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Bank of America Price Performance

Shares of BAC stock opened at $37.11 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $292.82 billion, a PE ratio of 12.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.69 and a beta of 1.38. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $34.25 and a 200-day simple moving average of $31.20. The company has a current ratio of 0.80, a quick ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.15. Bank of America Co. has a twelve month low of $24.96 and a twelve month high of $37.61.

Bank of America Dividend Announcement

Bank of America ( NYSE:BAC Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Friday, January 12th. The financial services provider reported $0.70 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.69 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $22 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $23.70 billion. Bank of America had a net margin of 15.42% and a return on equity of 11.38%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 10.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.85 earnings per share. Equities research analysts anticipate that Bank of America Co. will post 3.12 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 1st will be paid a dividend of $0.24 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, February 29th. This represents a $0.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.59%. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 31.27%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on BAC shares. Morgan Stanley upgraded shares of Bank of America from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and lifted their target price for the stock from $32.00 to $41.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. BMO Capital Markets cut their price objective on shares of Bank of America from $37.00 to $36.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, January 16th. Oppenheimer cut their price objective on shares of Bank of America from $50.00 to $46.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, March 19th. Citigroup boosted their price objective on shares of Bank of America from $37.00 to $39.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 20th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price objective on shares of Bank of America from $30.00 to $33.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, December 1st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Bank of America presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $35.65.

Get Our Latest Report on BAC

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. It operates in four segments: Consumer Banking, Global Wealth & Investment Management (GWIM), Global Banking, and Global Markets.

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Carlos Reyes, 20, was last seen by family members around 11 p.m. March 28, 2022. His unoccupied vehicle was found on fire in Brewster, N.Y., the next night. As of March 2024, his disapperance was still under investigation. Contributed photo Carlos Reyes, 20, was last seen by family members around 11 p.m. March 28, 2022. His unoccupied vehicle was found on fire in Brewster, N.Y., the next night. As of March 2024, his disapperance was still under investigation. Contributed photo Carlos Reyes 2008 gray four-door Infiniti sedan was found engulfed in flames on Old Milltown Road in Brewster, N.Y., shortly before midnight March 29, 2022. Brewster Fire Department Carlos Reyes 2008 gray four-door Infiniti sedan was found engulfed in flames on Old Milltown Road in Brewster, N.Y., shortly before midnight March 29, 2022. Brewster Fire Department Carlos Reyes 2008 gray four-door Infiniti sedan was found engulfed in flames on Old Milltown Road in Brewster, N.Y., shortly before midnight March 29, 2022. Brewster Fire Department

DANBURY  Its been two years since Carlos Reyes was reported missing and with many lingering questions surrounding the DoorDash driver's disappearance, those close to and acquainted with him are left waiting for answers.

Whatever happened to him  if he is out there or if hes not alive anymore, which breaks my heart to say  his family deserves closure, Robyn Gervais, a former high school teacher of Reyes, who said his disappearance weighs heavy on her thoughts.

The roughly 170-pound, 5-foot-10-inch-tall 20-year-old was last seen by his family around 11 p.m. March 28, 2022. About 24 hours later  around midnight March 29  his 2008 gray Infiniti sedan was found engulfed in flames on Old Milltown Road in Brewster, N.Y., with no signs of Reyes found following an extensive search of the area, according to Danbury police.

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Reyes was officially reported missing March 31, 2022, according to Danbury police spokesperson Erin Henry

A few years before his disappearance, Gervais said Reyes was a student in her English class at John F. Kennedy High School in Waterbury during the 2017-18 school year.

Funny is the first word that always comes to mind when I think of Carlos, she said. He was a funny kid, who made everybody laugh  not just the kids, but the teachers too. He was hilarious.

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Gervais described Reyes  who she said was a junior when she had him as a student  as a genuine, friendly and respectful student with typical teenager tendencies.

He was one of those kids you think youre going to have a hard time with at first  but once he came out of his shell and realized I wasnt out to get him, we got along great, she said. We had a mutual understanding of I respect you, you respect me and if we have a bad day, were going to move past it.

Gervais, who no longer works for Waterbury Public Schools, said she and Reyes kept in touch over the years and the last time they spoke was in or around 2021.

He was talking about some job  and I told him to keep doing what he was doing, that I was proud of him and knew hed move onto bigger and better things, she said. I always used to tell my students, Make smart choices, and I remember telling him, Dont forget to make smart choices, and he was laughing.

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Gervais said she finds the lack of new developments in her former students case disheartening  especially considering the amount of media attention paid to the disappearance of Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old white woman who vanished while on a cross-country roadtrip six or so months before Reyes.

Can you imagine if it had been a 20-year-old white female who disappeared and whose car was found ablaze on the side of the road? Gervais said. The fact that he is a Hispanic male just makes me think: If he wasnt, would this story be bigger? That just really bothers me because he deserves the attention and justice too.

Its not just the big questions like what happened to Reyes that are left unanswered, but the small ones too  such as where he was last seen, his place of residence at the time of his disappearance and even his date of birth.

Danbury police have declined to comment or provide any further information on the Reyes case  citing its ongoing nature  and directed questions to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which became lead agency on the investigation.

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The FBI got involved within the first two weeks of initiating the case, according to Henry. She said Friday that Danbury police and the FBI were still actively investigating.

The FBI has not returned requests for comment on the case and recently rejected a Freedom of Information Act request Hearst filed for information related to its investigation into Reyes disappearance.

Despite law enforcements unwillingness to provide further updates, a check of the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System last year provided some new insight into what authorities think may have happened to Reyes.

According to information in the NAMUS database, where a case page for Reyes was created about three months after he was reported missing, authorities believe he met up with a suspect (possibly related to narcotics trafficking) in Danbury, CT and subsequently disappeared.

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Danbury police confirmed last year that a city detective updated the description on the page, which previously said Reyes had met with an unidentified individual in Danbury, who authorities determined robbed and subsequently killed him before burning Reyes vehicle in Brewster, N.Y.

The Danbury Police Departments spokesperson did not specify why the change was made, but confirmed Danbury police had written the original post. The description was updated following inquiries from Hearst about the original one.

Searches and possible suspect

A couple months after Reyes was reported missing, the Berkshire Eagle reported that a search for the body of an out-of-state person led the FBI to the area of a farm field in Sheffield, Mass., where authorities spent two days searching in the Housatonic River and on an adjacent cornfield next to a rest area off Route 7.

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According to the May 2022 article, law enforcement sources familiar with the investigation told the Massachusetts news organization that the FBI was looking  with the assistance of the Berkshire County Sheriffs Office  for the body of a person who either lived or died in Danbury, but no body was found during the two-day search.

Hearst reached out to Sheffield Police Chief Eric Munson in August 2022, but he declined to comment on the search.

There was also a search-and-seizure warrant executed on a Ball Pond Road property in Danbury 10 days after Reyes disappearance, during which local and state police were seen scouring a nearby pond and storm drains. Danbury police said the search on April 7, 2022, ended with collecting surveillance footage and evidence associated with the missing person.

Eight days later, Danbury police announced that a man named Christopher Lemke was directly related to the Ball Pond Road search and believed to have information that could help locate Reyes or his whereabouts.

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Danbury police shared the information on April 15, 2022  the day after Lemke was arrested after he fled from Newtown police who were attempting to execute a warrant related to a handgun theft investigation out of Danbury, held a woman at gunpoint and crashed a stolen vehicle in Southbury.

Authorities have not disclosed what kind of information Lemke was believed to have or if he did, in fact, provide any useful information regarding Reyes disappearance.

In April 2023, Hearst discovered a warrant for Lemkes arrest stemming from a motor vehicle theft in Danbury two days before Reyes was reported missing, in which Lemke was described as a suspect in Reyes disappearance.

According to the warrant, Lemke stole a womans car from a Danbury gas station the night of March 26, 2022, that was found fully engulfed in flames in Bethel the next day.

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Noting the discovery of Reyes car a few days later on Old Milltown Road in Brewster, N.Y.  which fire officials ruled (to be) an arson, according to the warrant  authorities said the investigation into the stolen car out of Danbury developed Christopher Lemke as a suspect in the missing mans disappearance.
East Hartford police and the East Hartford animal control officer returned to a home on Fuller Avenue to follow up on a fatal dog attack earlier this month. Jim Michaud/Hearst Connecticut Media

Since 2011, four children in Connecticut have died from dog attacks  two of them this year, data shows.

Data regarding dog attack fatalities was presented by Brendan Burke, state assistant child advocate, in the states Child Fatality Review Panel's virtual meeting Wednesday. The panel is made up of various officials who review unexplained or unexpected circumstances of deaths of Connecticut children.

The first fatal dog attack in the data set occurred on Sept. 30, 2011, in West Haven. Neveah Angel Bryant, 20 months old, died after she was mauled by two or three pit bulls.

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A family member said the dogs never had been aggressive before, and were kept in a separate room that night. She wasnt sure how the dogs escaped and got into the child's room.

Another child wouldn't die from a dog attack in Connecticut for nearly 10 years. On May 10, 2021, in Norwich, one-month-old Carter Settles was being held when the family dog, a mixed-breed pit bull, jumped up on the family member and began biting Carter, according to Norwich police. He died from his injuries.

Almost three years later, on Feb. 16, 2024, 2-week-old Brayden Burwell Heery died of an injury to the head after he was bitten by the family dog, a Husky, according to Burke.

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The fourth occurred weeks later, on March 13, 2024, when an 11-month-old child was attacked by a pit bull, Burke said.

East Hartford police said a mother and the child were on a trampoline when a larger, mixed-breed dog attacked the child. The mother also sustained minor bite injuries.

After the incident, the dog, as well as another family dog, were removed from the home and were being quarantined, police said.

A woman who identified herself as the babys aunt said her nephew, Lennox, was killed just as the family was about to celebrate his first birthday.

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Since the two fatal dog attacks this year, professionals have urged families with young children and any other vulnerable people to remain vigilant around their dog.

Burke noted that fatal dog bites are rare.

Annually, about 3.9 million people suffer a dog bite in the United States, and nearly 850,000 seek medical care, Burke said, citing a study. The study noted that rates of dog-bite-related emergency department visits are highest among pediatric patients.

The nationwide study showed that emergency department visits for children suffering from dog bites spiked by almost 200 percent in 2020 at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Youve got more kids home, more families willing to take on an animal in their home, but this is a pretty remarkable spike, Burke said in the Wednesday meeting. The numbers dipped as the pandemic waned, he noted.

The study also showed that dog bites arent as common in the Northeast as in other parts of the country. New England only represented 3 percent of dog bite patients.

Data from the national study showed that children 3 years old or younger were more likely to seek medical care for dog bites, representing 28 percent of the patients. The study also described how about 80 percent of the children 3 years or younger who had been bitten by a dog were bit on the head. The incidence of bites to the head decreased with age.

When youre younger, youre more likely to suffer a dog bite to your head, Burke said. The younger you are, the more vulnerable you are.

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The panel also discussed dog breeds.

Data from Dogsbite.org, presented by Burke Wednesday, showed that 433 people in the United States  at any age  died from dog bite injuries. Some 284 of those, or 65.6 percent, involved pit bulls, and the second-highest breed was Rottweillers at 45 incidents, or 10.4 percent. The study noted that four deaths involved both pit bulls and Rottweilers.

Any dog will bite if provoked, though, the American Medical Veterinary Association noted.

It is not a dogs breed that determines whether it will bite, but rather the dogs individual history and behavior, the association stated on its website.

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However, medium- to large-size dogs typically inflict more severe injuries.

Burke noted that it was challenging to track dog bites, considering the national data showed many are treated at home.

It gets super challenging, and I think a dog bite is very different from a dog fatality, he said. And a dog bite by a Chihuahua is a lot different than a dog bite by a pit bull, and the victims size and presentation certainly impacts the result of that, too.

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Forget about wishy-washy Sunak or flip flopper Starmer, Great Britain needs a wartime Prime Minister with some fucking balls.

Rishi Sunak may be good at bankrupting Britain with his tin pot socialist spending sprees, and Keir Starmer will no doubt be the same. None of these miscreants have an inkling of what is needed to actually save Britain from an outside aggressor like Russia or China.

What Britain needs is some kind of Churchillian creature that smokes Cubans by the dozen, drinks gallons of high grade champagne and dines on the finest gourmet food whilst plotting the next clandestine commando raid into enemy territory. Someone who shouts loudly, farts loudly and when he walks everyone can hear a clinking noise emanating from his M&S pyjama bottoms.

Okay, you have a name, someone who can fit the bill? Unfortunately, it is not Boris. For some reason, he turned out to be a metropolitan liberal eco nodding fool who just went along with things like Brexit purely to get the PM job. He had no true heart in Brexit, and when he became PM, he literally put it back to the bottom of the pile of things to do. It was truly a sad sight to see such a terrible betrayal as that, where he was more concerned about the wallpaper in the Number 10 flat than fucking Brexit. Instead of lifting Britain out of the mire and shadow of the EU, Boris had his chance, and he fucking blew it.

Someone else has to take up the mantle of leading Britain through the vagaries of war, someone who will not shirk from their duty, and someone who will champion the military by reinventing and funding it properly.

Who that person will be is anyones guess, and in fact, that person probably does not exist in this insipid maudlin world, let alone Britain?
The Richard C. Lee United States Courthouse, home of U.S. District Court in New Haven. A federal grand jury has indicted two men from Peru accused of pickpocketing unsuspecting shoppers in Connecticut and elsewhere, and then using their stolen cards to buy high-end electronics. Ben Lambert / Hearst Connecticut Media

Federal authorities have arrested two men from Peru accused of distracting and stealing wallets from unwitting customers at Trader Joe's and other retailers in Connecticut, as well as around the country.

The men, Angel Giancarlo Bellido Cosio, 34, and Eugenio Bances Chaponen, 60, were indicted on charges of access device fraud and aggravated identity theft, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Connecticut said. They were arrested March 13 and have been detained, the office said.

The two men face up to 10 years in prison on the fraud charge and up to two years on the identity theft charge, the U.S. attorney's office said.

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An affidavit from the criminal complaint against the two men claims they and others used a fraudulent passport to rent cars to travel around the U.S., including Connecticut. They then engaged in "ongoing distraction thefts to steal wallets from unwary victims at Trader Joe's grocery stores and other retail stores," an FBI agent wrote in the affidavit.

The stolen credit cards then were used to purchase electronic devices and other goods, some of which were shipped to an address in Paterson, N.J., the affidavit said.

Bellido Cosio, also known as Jesus Requejo, last lived in Paterson, the U.S. attorney's office said. Bances Chaponen last lived in Queens, N.Y.

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During one such theft in Connecticut on Feb. 10, a victim reported having their credit and debit cards stolen at the Trader Joe's in Orange, according to the affidavit.

The victim's credit card then was used to buy an Apple MacBook, an iPad and other goods at the Costco in Milford, according to the affidavit. The thieves also used the debit card to buy an iPad, along with eyedrops, the affidavit said. The debit card also was used to a buy an Apple Watch from the BJ's Wholesale Club in Stratford.

Authorities tied Bellido Cosio and Bances Chaponen to the thefts through surveillance footage and watching a rental car that was in the area of the Trader Joe's.

The pair were arrested after they returned to Orange on March 13, according to the affidavit.

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A customer at a TJ Maxx store there told authorities she had been approached by a man holding two swimsuits who needed assistance, according to the court filing. He moved on after she told him both cost $25, the affidavit said.

When the woman reached into her pocketbook for her glasses, she realized her wallet was missing, the affidavit said.

The two were observed by agents going into a discount flooring center and a Costco, before both were later apprehended, the affidavit said.
Fort Washington Investment Advisors Inc. OH reduced its position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) by 1.3% in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 299,740 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 3,798 shares during the period. Fort Washington Investment Advisors Inc. OHs holdings in JPMorgan Chase & Co. were worth $50,986,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

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Other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Macroview Investment Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 7,833.3% during the 3rd quarter. Macroview Investment Management LLC now owns 238 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $34,000 after purchasing an additional 235 shares during the last quarter. Briaud Financial Planning Inc acquired a new position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $40,000. FSC Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 290.9% in the third quarter. FSC Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 387 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $56,000 after acquiring an additional 288 shares during the last quarter. Legacy Financial Group LLC acquired a new position in JPMorgan Chase & Co. in the third quarter valued at approximately $58,000. Finally, Robbins Farley lifted its holdings in JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 29.5% in the third quarter. Robbins Farley now owns 421 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $61,000 after acquiring an additional 96 shares during the last quarter. 71.55% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, CEO James Dimon sold 821,778 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $182.73, for a total transaction of $150,163,493.94. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 595,316 shares of the companys stock, valued at $108,782,092.68. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In other JPMorgan Chase & Co. news, General Counsel Stacey Friedman sold 6,030 shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $182.73, for a total value of $1,101,861.90. Following the sale, the general counsel now owns 59,456 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $10,864,394.88. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CEO James Dimon sold 821,778 shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $182.73, for a total value of $150,163,493.94. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 595,316 shares in the company, valued at approximately $108,782,092.68. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 845,383 shares of company stock valued at $154,341,636 over the last quarter. 0.79% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

JPM has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. BMO Capital Markets upped their price objective on JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $192.00 to $194.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Tuesday, January 16th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price target on JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $200.00 to $220.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, March 20th. Oppenheimer lowered their price target on JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $238.00 to $219.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, March 19th. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $191.00 to $221.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upgraded JPMorgan Chase & Co. from a hold rating to a buy rating and raised their price target for the stock from $140.00 to $190.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 9th. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, JPMorgan Chase & Co. currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $181.63.

Read Our Latest Research Report on JPMorgan Chase & Co.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Stock Up 0.5 %

JPMorgan Chase & Co. stock opened at $195.83 on Wednesday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. has a 1-year low of $126.22 and a 1-year high of $200.48. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.30, a current ratio of 0.91 and a quick ratio of 0.91. The stock has a market cap of $564.06 billion, a PE ratio of 12.07, a P/E/G ratio of 2.48 and a beta of 1.14. The stocks fifty day moving average is $181.02 and its two-hundred day moving average is $163.00.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, January 12th. The financial services provider reported $3.04 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $3.73 by ($0.69). The firm had revenue of $38.57 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $39.73 billion. JPMorgan Chase & Co. had a return on equity of 17.80% and a net margin of 20.70%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 11.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $3.57 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts expect that JPMorgan Chase & Co. will post 15.84 EPS for the current fiscal year.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, April 30th. Investors of record on Friday, April 5th will be issued a dividend of $1.15 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, April 4th. This represents a $4.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.35%. This is a positive change from JPMorgan Chase & Co.s previous quarterly dividend of $1.05. JPMorgan Chase & Co.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 25.89%.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Company Profile

(Free Report)

JPMorgan Chase & Co operates as a financial services company worldwide. It operates through four segments: Consumer & Community Banking (CCB), Corporate & Investment Bank (CIB), Commercial Banking (CB), and Asset & Wealth Management (AWM). The CCB segment offers deposit, investment and lending products, cash management, and payments and services; mortgage origination and servicing activities; residential mortgages and home equity loans; and credit cards, auto loans, leases, and travel services to consumers and small businesses through bank branches, ATMs, and digital and telephone banking.

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Kingswood Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Ford Motor (NYSE:F  Free Report) by 169.4% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 56,806 shares of the auto manufacturers stock after buying an additional 35,723 shares during the quarter. Kingswood Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Ford Motor were worth $692,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

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Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Quarry LP purchased a new stake in shares of Ford Motor during the 2nd quarter valued at $28,000. Fairfield Bush & CO. purchased a new position in Ford Motor in the 2nd quarter worth $29,000. 1832 Asset Management L.P. raised its position in Ford Motor by 349.4% in the 2nd quarter. 1832 Asset Management L.P. now owns 2,000 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 1,555 shares during the period. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. raised its position in Ford Motor by 835.9% in the 4th quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. now owns 2,059 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 1,839 shares during the period. Finally, Cornerstone Planning Group LLC purchased a new position in Ford Motor in the 2nd quarter worth $31,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 58.74% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

F has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Piper Sandler initiated coverage on shares of Ford Motor in a research report on Friday, March 15th. They issued a neutral rating and a $13.00 target price on the stock. BNP Paribas cut shares of Ford Motor from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $12.00 price objective on the stock. in a research report on Wednesday, December 13th. Citigroup boosted their price objective on shares of Ford Motor from $15.00 to $16.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 7th. Redburn Atlantic began coverage on shares of Ford Motor in a research report on Wednesday, January 24th. They issued a sell rating and a $10.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Barclays lifted their target price on shares of Ford Motor from $14.00 to $15.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have given a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Ford Motor currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $13.75.

Insider Transactions at Ford Motor

In other news, CAO Mark Kosman sold 26,898 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $12.53, for a total value of $337,031.94. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer now owns 7,102 shares in the company, valued at $88,988.06. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Insiders own 0.80% of the companys stock.

Ford Motor Trading Down 3.6 %

NYSE:F opened at $12.44 on Wednesday. Ford Motor has a one year low of $9.63 and a one year high of $15.42. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.33, a current ratio of 1.20 and a quick ratio of 1.04. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $12.14 and its 200 day simple moving average is $11.69. The firm has a market capitalization of $49.43 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.52, a PEG ratio of 1.03 and a beta of 1.63.

Ford Motor (NYSE:F  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 6th. The auto manufacturer reported $0.29 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.12 by $0.17. The business had revenue of $43.21 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $43.06 billion. Ford Motor had a net margin of 2.47% and a return on equity of 18.95%. Ford Motors quarterly revenue was up 3.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.51 earnings per share. As a group, analysts forecast that Ford Motor will post 1.88 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Ford Motor Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a Variable dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 16th were paid a $0.33 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 15th. This represents a dividend yield of 4.7%. Ford Motors dividend payout ratio is presently 55.56%.

Ford Motor Profile

(Free Report)

Ford Motor Company develops, delivers, and services a range of Ford trucks, commercial cars and vans, sport utility vehicles, and Lincoln luxury vehicles worldwide. It operates through Ford Blue, Ford Model e, and Ford Pro; Ford Next; and Ford Credit segments. The company sells Ford and Lincoln vehicles, service parts, and accessories through distributors and dealers, as well as through dealerships to commercial fleet customers, daily rental car companies, and governments.

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On March 23rd, 2024, Pakistan commemorated its national holiday, Pakistan Day, with a grand military parade in the capital city, Islamabad. This annual event celebrates national pride and provides a platform for the countrys armed forces to showcase their military might and technological advancements. The 2024 parade garnered significant interest due to the unveiling of several new aircraft and rocket programs, indicating Pakistans growing ambitions in the domestic defense sector.

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A Spotlight on Domestic Production

A noteworthy aspect of the parade was the emphasis on domestically produced military equipment. One of the key highlights was the Haider platform, Pakistans first locally manufactured main battle tank. Based on the Chinese-designed VT-4, this tank represents a significant step forward in Pakistans efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in defense production.

The parade featured other domestically produced military hardware, including armored personnel carriers and combat vehicles. This focus on indigenous development signifies Pakistans strategic intent to reduce reliance on foreign arms imports and establish a robust domestic defense industry.

New Horizons in Aerial Defense

Strengthening the Nations Rocketry Arsenal

The event also shed light on Pakistans burgeoning aircraft programs. While details remain undisclosed, the parade offered glimpses of new fighter jet prototypes currently under development. This signals Pakistans aspirations to bolster its air defense capabilities with potentially cutting-edge, domestically designed aircraft.

The unveiling of new rocket programs marked another significant development at the parade. While the specific capabilities of these programs were not revealed, analysts speculate they could encompass a range of applications, including ballistic missiles and enhanced space launch capabilities. This strategic move underscores Pakistans commitment to strengthening its national security posture and potentially expanding its presence in the space domain.

Implications and Regional Dynamics

The unveiling of these new defense programs has generated discussion within Pakistan and has been closely monitored by regional and international observers. Here are some potential implications:

Enhanced Military Capabilities: The development of these new technologies could significantly enhance Pakistans military capabilities, potentially impacting regional power dynamics.

The development of these new technologies could significantly enhance Pakistans military capabilities, potentially impacting regional power dynamics. Focus on Self-Reliance: The emphasis on domestic production signifies Pakistans strategic goal of reducing dependence on foreign military equipment and fostering a self-reliant defense industry.

The emphasis on domestic production signifies Pakistans strategic goal of reducing dependence on foreign military equipment and fostering a self-reliant defense industry. Potential for Regional Arms Race: The development of these advanced weapons systems could potentially trigger an arms race in the region, raising concerns about long-term stability.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

Pakistans advancements in domestic defense technology present both challenges and opportunities. Here are some key considerations:

Technological Development: Successfully bringing these programs to fruition will require sustained investment in research and development, along with access to critical technologies and materials.

Successfully bringing these programs to fruition will require sustained investment in research and development, along with access to critical technologies and materials. Economic Considerations: Developing and maintaining advanced military equipment is a resource-intensive endeavor. Balancing these costs with broader national development goals will be crucial.

Developing and maintaining advanced military equipment is a resource-intensive endeavor. Balancing these costs with broader national development goals will be crucial. Regional Security: Open communication and dialogue with regional neighbors will be essential to ensure transparency and maintain regional stability.

The unveiling of new aircraft and rocket programs at the 2024 Pakistan Day Parade signifies a pivotal moment in the countrys defense development journey. While challenges lie ahead, this event underscores Pakistans ambition to build a robust domestic defense industry and potentially redefine its position in the regional security landscape. The success of these programs will depend on Pakistans ability to navigate the technological, economic, and diplomatic complexities involved. Close observation of these developments will be crucial for understanding their long-term implications for regional security dynamics.
Connecticut State Police said they are investigating three carjacking attempts at the Darien and Milford rest areas on Interstate 95 early Wednesday morning. FILE PHOTO

Connecticut State Police are investigating three carjacking attempts at the Darien and Milford rest areas on Interstate 95 early Wednesday morning.

State police said two attempted carjackings were reported about an hour apart before a woman's car was stolen at gunpoint from the I-95 northbound rest area in Milford around 5:40 a.m. State police said at least three suspects were involved and they crashed the woman's car in Hamden where they fled in another vehicle around 7:30 a.m.

The series of events began around 4:30 a.m. when troopers responded to the I-95 northbound rest area in Darien for a report of an attempted carjacking, state police said. A man told troopers he parked his Audi in the rest area and left a female passenger in the vehicle as he went inside, state police said.

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"The male victim stated that an older model white sedan pulled behind his vehicle and two young males exited and approached him," state police said. "One suspect grabbed the male victim and attempted to physically pull the victim away from the Audi."

State police said the victim struck the suspect in the face, causing him to retreat backward. The male victim then got back in the car, but one of the suspects continued to try opening the driver's door, state police said.

"While this was occurring, the second male suspect was attempting to physically remove the female victim through the passenger side front door," state police said. "The female victim was able to pull the passenger side door closed, preventing the male suspect from removing her from the vehicle."

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Once the male victim was able to secure the drivers side door, state police said, the two suspects retreated and were last seen getting into the white sedan and fleeing the area. They said no weapons were displayed or implied during the incident.

About an hour later, state police said, troopers were dispatched to the I-95 southbound rest area in Milford, where a male victim reported he was in the process of refueling when a man wearing a mask and displaying a firearm approached him. State police said the victim sprayed the suspect with gasoline, causing them them to flee in a black sedan around 5:30 a.m.

Just minutes later, state police said, troopers were called to the rest area on the northbound side of I-95 in Milford for a report of an armed carjacking around 5:40 a.m. A female victim reported she parked her Acura RDX in the lot and was approaching the building when a suspect in dark clothes and a mask came up to her and demanded her keys and belongings, state police said.

"A firearm was displayed as the suspect demanded the victims keys and belongings," state police said. "As the victim complied, she reported that two more individuals, also wearing masks, approached."

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State police said the suspects left the area in the victim's Acura and troopers found an unoccupied Kia Forte with the engine still running in the parking lot. They said it was later confirmed to have been stolen from Hamden.

The victim's Acura was found around 7:30 a.m. when it was involved in a crash in Hamden, state police said, adding all the occupants ran from the scene.

Police said the suspects reportedly entered a Hyundai SUV and fled as troopers responded to the area to assist. They said both the Acura and Kia were seized as evidence in the investigation, which is ongoing.
A County Derry-linked horse won The Grand National 100 years ago this week in one of the events great underdog tales.

On March 28, 1924, eleven-year-old Donegal-bred thoroughbred Master Robert won as a huge longshot horse with an out of favour jockey.

The horse spent time in Magherafelt and was briefly owned by Pat Murray, who also owned what is now Brysons bar in Magherafelt.

Master Robert was bred in Donegal, and spent time in Strabane, Magherafelt and Moy before being sent to England. The horse trained at The Curragh racecourse in its early years.

Francis X Murray is writing a book about the horse, which he originally learned about while on a trip to explore his own roots.

He lives in New York and hails from Philadelphia with Irish 'ancestral roots in Derry, Tyrone and Tipperary'.

Until ten years ago, I possessed an insignificant knowledge of my Irish heritage. On my first trip to Ireland in 2013, through a series of serendipitous events, I met a third cousin of mine, previously unknown to me, during a visit to County Derry, Francis said.

After spending a pleasant few days with my newly discovered relative - learning much about my paternal County Derry heritage - he asked me on my way out of his door: Do you know the story of Master Robert?

He explained to me that his uncle, Patrick Murray - my great-granduncle - owned the horse for a time before he won and that he kept the horse at the local pub he owned which still exists. He told me I should stop by on my way out of town. Wow, I thought Thats pretty cool so I did indeed visit Paddy Murrays old pub, now named Bryson's, on my way out of town.

Arriving at the pub, I quickly found hanging on the wall inside was a 1999 Mid Ulster Mail newspaper article about Pat Murrays ownership of Master Robert, the source of the story being Pats son, Joe, another third cousin of mine of whom I had been unaware, who recounted the tale when he came home on a visit from Canada  the country to which Murray and his family emigrated in 1929.

Defying the odds

On the day of Master Roberts unlikely win, The Grand National was very likely the highest-attended single-day sporting event in the world in 1924 according to Francis.

Master Robert was a longshot because he battled lameness in the weeks leading up to The Grand National, and faced the past three winners of the event Sergeant Murphy, Music Hall and Shaun Spadah as well as 'the hottest favourite on record' Conjuror II (5/2) whose race ended the first time over Becher's Brook.

Several of the most famous jockeys of the day had mounts, including Jack Anthony (Music Hall); Fred Rees (Shaun Spadah); Joe Hogan Jr. (Sergeant Murphy) and Harry Brown (Conjuror II).

Additionally, the horse's regular jockey refused the ride, because of Master Robert's lameness.

No fashionable rider would take the ride. Bob Trudgill was a journeyman jockey, unattached to a stable, who was never in a position to turn down a ride.

The day before The Grand National, in a race at Aintree, Trudgill was thrown from his mount, Charlie Wise, and injured. Despite the doctor's orders not to ride, Trudgill would not be denied his opportunity.

The pair managed to combine and defy the 25/1 odds to win.

In his 1945 book The Grand National, Con OLeary wrote 'No other jockey but Trudgill would have won on Master Robert. It might also be said that Trudgill would not have been given the opportunity of winning on any other. For horse and jockey, it was time and place and partner all together.'

Master Robert's was a record fourth - third, if you exclude his War National win - and final Grand National victory for his trainer, Aubrey Hastings. His owner, Scotland's Lord Airlie, was close to the Royal Family, and later served as Lord Chamberlain.

County Derrys crucial influence

While the story begins in Donegal, Francis said the Magherafelt leg of Master Roberts journey was fundamentally and positively transformative for the horse.

In 1912 a prominent Castlefinn farmer, Ulster Scot Robert McKinlay, decided to breed his stallion Moorside II to a friend's mare for the purpose of producing a thoroughbred racehorse.

McKinlay was a highly regarded horse breeder, but this was to be his first foal bred to be a racehorse.

Despite all his love and support of the animal, and sending him twice to the best trainers at The Curragh, first to be a flat racer and then after WWI to be a jumper, Master Robert failed, and was left to be a plough horse to earn his keep.

Francis said Master Robert refused the plough leaving McKinlay with no use for his beloved animal and he was sold. The sale was seen as a favour to McKinlay by both parties.

The friend kept Master Robert only six weeks before the horse found himself working in Strabane's Canal Basin, which in that time served as an important food distribution point for the region.

Later the horse would be transferred to Paddy Murray, a Catholic publican in Magherafelt. Paddy and his wife Sarah operated a public house on Union Road (at what is now Bryson's in Magherafelt) - which was first established as the Fountain Hotel in 1864.

Paddy's avocation was jumping horses and did so in local point-to-points. He kept horses in his stables behind the bar. Master Robert, who was bred to much fanfare and trained by two of the best Curragh trainers of the day, was at the lowest part of his life.

In those days Paddy's grocer made deliveries to his bar using his cart pulled by a horse. Paddy took notice of his grocer's cart horse and eventually asked his grocer if he would sell the horse to him, which he did.

Paddy eventually got the horse to perform as a jumper such that he and others took notice.

Franciss book about Master Robert will take the form of a narrative nonfiction novel. He has completed his manuscript and is currently presenting shortly to literary agents for consideration.

He said he believes Master Robert's National Hunt career and ultimate Grand National participation and performance was particularly improbable and inspiring, and took place during a notably interesting period in history.

I believe Master Robert's story may serve as a defining Grand National tale, beginning with breeder Robert McKinlay in Donegal at the outset of the Irish Home Rule debate in 1912, continuing there and in Kildare (The Curragh) through World War I between 1914 and 1918 and proceeding to The Curragh (again) and through Ulster after the start of and during the War of Independence (1919-1921), and subsequently, into Gatsbyesque England at the height of the British Empire, when The Grand National was the most significant single-day sporting event in the world.

The life, times and decisions of eight owners, Master Robert's own personality and physical condition, and Aubrey Hastings' and Bob Trudgill's influence were all factors during a twelve-year dramatic odyssey culminating with earning the Grand National Blue Riband.

More information about Master Robert and Francis's upcoming book can be found at: masterrobert.horse
March 17 saw the finale of hit RTE show Dancing with the Stars take place.

After a very tense final, dance partners Karen Byrne and Jason Smyth were crowned winners and were presented with the coveted Glitterball trophy.

The Paralympian started off the night doing the samba to Rhythm Divine by Enrique Iglesias.

Judge Arthur told him: This was incredible. The way you shook your body, every coconut in the world fell off the trees."

Fellow judge Loraine added: "Tonight you were out there smiling, but you were living that samba."

They ended up getting 28 points for their efforts. The pair then performed to DITA's Make It Look Easy for their showdance.

Six-time Paralympic gold medal-winning sprinter Jason, who hails from Eglinton, is legally blind due to Stargardts disease.

One of the reasons he decided to participate in Dancing with the Stars was to raise awareness about visual impairment and change peoples perception of what they can and cannot do.

To demonstrate this in the finale, the duo chose to blindfold Karen to illustrate that you can dance even without having perfect vision.

It is my turn to step into your shoes, said Karen during the practice rehearsal.

The dance was described as magical and emotional by the judges and the performance earned the duo 30 points.

Afterwards they came back out with a bang to perform their last dance to Michael Bolton's Disney hit Go The Distance.

Following the celebrations of the weekend, Jason took time out to speak to the County Derry Post about his experience, stepping out of his comfort zone and what the future holds for him.

What are your thoughts on the overall experience, considering it's quite different from being an athlete?

Jason: Its a very different experience than being an athlete. As an athlete, this is your career or this was your career and there was so much on the line when you went to compete.

Whereas in Dancing with the Stars, it's not necessarily about your career, and therefore you don't have everything on the line every week. On that front, it felt like a different pressure. The pressure was to try to be at a decent place on national TV and get your dance right.

For me, there are a lot of pieces I really enjoyed, because some of them reminded me of when I was an athlete.

I enjoyed the competition. I tried to push myself to continually improve and enjoy the aspect of having the dance right by Sunday.

You had to have the right mentality to keep pushing and persevere through the week.

Was blindfold Karen for the finale dance a personal choice to raise awareness around visual impairment?

Jason: It was something that we had mentioned early on, the potential to do it. So for me, I had to get to a certain level before it was realistic. It is also the kind of thing you have to do in the finale rather than halfway through the competition.

In week three, we did this little piece around what I could see. People could see my vision through the camera so for me that was the first step in trying to get people to understand what I can see.

I've talked about this whole experience being out of my comfort zone but Karen also had to show that it is possible for her to get out of her comfort zone. And then everybody could see I was being able to lead and guide her.

[It is important to know] what's the message rather than just dancing because you're a good dancer. For people to relate and connect, there's got to be a deeper message and that's what we tried.

How was stepping out of your comfort zone and going dancing on national television?

Jason: It was like everything, difficult at times. I asked myself why did I even bother doing this because unfortunately getting out of your comfort zone isn't easy. But I think when you get to the other side of it, where you realise that it is worth it and sometimes you just have to keep pushing through the difficult moments to reap the rewards.

For me, I've found it difficult at times but an incredible experience. Ultimately getting out of your comfort zone, you learn, develop, improve and learn to build resilience, which I also think helps you face other challenges in life.

As a father of two girls who are also dancing, what were the reactions of your wee girls?

Jason: They loved it. Even while going to school there yesterday, they were over the moon. My wife phoned me after she was taking them and then the youngest one was talking and said: Mummy, do you know, we're so lucky we have a dancing champion in our house now?. They've really been able to be part of the experience. For me, I hope they look at me and how I've embraced this challenge, the success and influences them in everything they do in their life.

Are you going to continue to dance or is it a closed chapter?

Jason: I don't know. I never thought dancing would be a chapter that I would open. I don't know if I can close it as my two girls dance. I will always be somewhat involved through them. I know my wife made a few jokes about us going to dance classes so who knows what the future is!
Minister Conor Murphy is to be highly commended for his recent announcement that he intends to deliver a proper university for the North West. This change in mindset towards Derry is as welcome as it is essential.

The Derry University Group would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have been involved in the consistently-growing campaign for an independent North West university (NWU), which has taken us to this point.

The Department of Economys stated ambition to have 10,000 students at Magee by 2030 is a refreshing new start, honouring as it does the terms of the blueprint set down by the two governments in 2020, and we all wish to see it happen.

The decision to establish a taskforce is also a clear signal of intent that the issue will remain high on the departments agenda.

Unfortunately, the departments decision to bypass the Royal Irish Academy (RIA) - the expert body on the island for Higher Education (HE), whose remit is to support Ireland's third-level sector on a continuing basis - was a cardinal error.

In November 2021, the RIA produced a framework which envisages Derry as the central hub of a North West cross-border university, independent of Belfast.

For the past 18 months it has been working on a delivery plan, in consultation with a wide range of relevant bodies on both sides of the border in the North West - and across the island.

The RIA is also strongly recommending the establishment of a new scrutiny body for universities in Northern Ireland (such as exists in both Britain and the South) to redress the staggering economic imbalance between east and west of the River Bann, which has seen 83% of students and 95% of HE capital-spending corralled for Belfast.

But instead of using the RIAs obvious expertise, the department has allowed Ulster University to run its own taskforce, despite UUs recent catastrophic near-collapse in Belfast, which leaves it carrying crippling debts and necessitated a 140 million government bailout.

UU is also under relentless internal pressure to deliver at its other campuses: from both Coleraine, which now wants its own taskforce; and from Belfast, which has already relocated key institutions such as Incore from Magee to try and make the new York Street site viable.

UUs conflicting internal priorities make it impossible for it to make the best decisions, independently, for each campus. Its refusal to allow precise breakdowns of course numbers and provide clear, comprehensive and consistent numbers of those attending each campus demands full transparency and proper oversight.

And this is before you even consider the widespread opposition/lack of enthusiasm in Derry towards UUs continued stewardship of Magee, after 60 years of discrimination, neglect, high-handedness and non-delivery.

Indeed, the decision to allow UU to continue at the helm - without first establishing an oversight commission - has been compared locally to handing Jesse James the keys of the bank and telling him not to worry as the security cameras are off.

Ulster University has been dismissive of the RIAs 2021 blueprint as it would inevitably see the running of Magee return to the people of the North West. UU has also stated that a scrutiny body for the North is not necessary - and it has made it patently clear that it does not want any independent or critical voice, or indeed anyone who does not share its vision, on its new taskforce.

UU has further claimed, misleadingly, on the BBC and in other media, that the only alternative being proposed to UUs continued running of Derry is a greenfield site. Not so at all - and a point again widely considered at the recent RIA debates and elsewhere in the North West.

The Derry University Group, among others, has long argued that an independent cross-border commission, in conjunction with the Royal Irish Academy, would administer Magee - while retaining UU in a delivery capacity - until such time as a new NWU is fully constituted in its own right.

Ten thousand students is just the first port on this regions voyage to a more fitting figure of 20,000 to 30000. We have our destination planned and our tickets bought.

We have no doubt that a minister as astute as Conor Murphy, having committed publicly to the development of Derry, will resolve the issues with the taskforce at an early stage. We believe that having turned the ship, he will not allow UU to crash it again.

It is time for a new captain for Derry.
Police in Derry are urging people to be on their guard for fraudsters after a recent report of online fraud.



Money was lost after the person was contacted online and told they'd won money. They were told they needed to send online gift cards to verify themselves. This continued for some time before the scam was spotted and stopped. Thousands of pounds have been lost.



Inspector Craig said: "Criminals constantly change how they present their scam to lure people in and swindle them, but the core is the same - theyre trying to get your personal and financial details.



Fraud offences are complex to investigate as many of those responsible are from outside Northern Ireland and, therefore, outside our jurisdiction. Criminals involved in many of these crimes transfer funds from victims at such a speed that often those who lose money to fraudsters are not aware of any financial loss for some time.

"Alongside funds usually being transferred overseas, outside the UK banking system and involving a network of accounts, this makes it difficult to trace those involved and challenging to hold them account. However, we do investigate and have conducted a number of investigations which have resulted in criminal justice outcomes.



"We work closely with partners, including the banking sector, through our ScamwiseNI Partnership to raise awareness of fraud, and inform people of the steps they can take to protect themselves and stop criminals from stealing their money.



Advice

The best way to fight scams and not lose money is to Stop. Check. Report.

Stop before you transfer money or disclose any personal details to anyone you do not know. Do not feel rushed or pressured by timelines - genuine businesses will always give you time to consider your options.

Check and verify who you are communicating with using a trusted source. Take time to verify callers on another phone line where possible. Search for businesses online and check images via an image search. If you are in any doubt do not transfer any money or goods.
HIGHLIGHTS Gemini is making its way to Google Messages. You will be able to chat with Gemini in the Google Messages app to draft messages, brainstorm ideas, or simply have a fun conversation. Gemini in Google Messages is being released gradually and only to Google Messages beta testers for now.

Last month, Google renamed its AI chatbot Bard as Gemini, and also launched Gemini Advanced which provides access to the Ultra 1.0 AI model. Now, Gemini is making its way to Google Messages. You will be able to chat with Gemini in the Google Messages app to draft messages, brainstorm ideas, plan events, or simply have a fun conversation.

Gemini in Google Messages is being released gradually and only to Google Messages beta testers for now.

Also read: Google at MWC 2024 made big AI-focused feature announcements

Lets delve into details like how to use Gemini in Google Messages, and what are the requirements.

What you need

An eligible Android phone: Pixel 6 or later, Pixel Fold, Samsung Galaxy S22 or later, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip or Z Fold. Your phones language must be set to a supported language: English. You must have the latest version of Google Messages. A personal Google Account that you manage on your own. Note: You cannot use Gemini in Google Messages with a Google Account managed by Family Link or with a Google Workspace account. You must be 18 or over. RCS chats must be turned on.

Also read: Google, Apollo partner to leverage AI for early disease detection in India: All details here

How to start a chat with Gemini in Google Messages

Its important to note that chats with Gemini arent end-to-end encrypted. You can also use extensions in your chat with Gemini in Google Messages.

Step 1: On your Android phone, open Google Messages.

Step 2: Tap the chat with Gemini, or tap Start chat > Gemini.

Step 3: For the first time, follow any on-screen instructions.

Step 4: Enter your question or prompt.

Step 5: Optionally, to add a photo to your prompt, tap Show attach media screen.

Step 6: Tap Send message.
Redefining MEMS speakers: Q&A with xMEMS CEO Joseph Jiang

US-headquartered xMEMS is on track to redefine Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) speakers.

The company, which produces speaker ICs with MEMS, has released its third-generation product, Cypress, and impressed the global audio market. The low-frequency sound that Cypress offers creates a new auditory experience for human beings.

Taiwan's semiconductor supply chain fostered xMEMS. In an interview with DIGITIMES, Joseph Jiang, xMEMS's co-founder and CEO, said the company originated from the evolution of piezoelectric materials. TSMC was working on the R&D of these materials.

Jiang said he and other co-founders betted on TSMC's R&D success and decided to take a bold move to establish xMEMS. TSMC currently offers foundry services for xMEMS, also a customer of several Taiwanese semiconductor packaging and testing companies.

Below is a Q&A summary between DIGITIMES and Jiang.

Q: Does xMEMS hold a significant advantage as TSMC's solid material techniques back it?

A: xMEMS, established six years ago, saw its first challenge come from TSMC. xMEMS had to prove that it was qualified to be a TSMC partner to receive supplies.

Initially, xMEMS bought blank silicon wafers in the market and asked Japanese partners to put its piezoelectric materials on them. We kept testing in a lab rented from Stanford University in the US until the MEMS audio chip enabled sound. Then, we took the chip to TSMC, persuading the foundry to provide piezoelectric silicon wafers. It was the official start of our collaboration.

After securing supplies from TSMC, xMEMS began testing tens of thousands of dies to find and address issues. Finally, we made our first MEMS chip.

We initially estimated it would take 18 months to reach the mass-production level. In reality, we spent over 30 months. The yield rate started at 50% and has now achieved more than 90%.

MEMS requires high-level techniques. Although we had critical materials, we had to do many other things ourselves. For example, we design testing machines and ask equipment manufacturers to produce them. After that, we also need to operate the machine on our own.

In the case of sleeping earbuds, when xMEMS put its chip into regular earbuds, it did not see the expected result. Therefore, our engineers learned to do 3D printing and made the desired earbuds from scratch. Our customers recognized the move. They even use our prototype to develop new products.

Q: In xMEMS' early days, a mosquito buzz from a MEMS speaker prompted the company to celebrate its success with champagne. Why?

A: The sound created a wonderful memory for our team and a historical moment. It proved that xMEMS' theory can be realized.

From the perspective of MEMS, a product represents a production process. This explains why tailor-made solutions are critical. MEMS has shown its strengths in optics and other fields, including the automotive LiDAR segment.

Things work differently in the audio sector. Creating a vibration amplitude strong enough to be heard through a tiny IC is extremely difficult. It is why dynamic and balanced armature drivers have dominated the audio market for over 150 years.

Besides the amplitude hurdle, the IC's cost also must be competitive to encourage adoption. Therefore, the breakthrough of MEMS in the audio sector is historical. The mosquito buzz from the speaker represented the beginning of a new era.

Q: How does xMEMS position itself besides designing piezoelectric MEMS chips?

A: xMEMS is an IC design company with about 80 employees. The company has released three generations of chips. The first was Montara, which disrupted the speaker market dominated by traditional dynamic drivers for 150 years. On average, Bluetooth earbuds with the Montara cost US$1,500. The high price reflected the value of MEMS.

Cowell, the second-generation chip, has gained traction in the true wireless stereo (TWS) market with a price of US$120. Cowell holds 70% to 80% higher costs than a dynamic driver. The gap will be narrowed to within 30% when a new Cowell solution is launched in the second half of 2024.

Application-wise, xMEMS sees the most adoption in TWS, gaming headsets, personal sound amplification products, and sleep earbuds. Gaming headsets have the most potential for growth rate.

The cost of the MEMS is similar to or even lower than that of a traditional dynamic driver, and it weighs less. Moreover, MEMS can enable seven times better spatial reasoning, helping gamers precisely identify their enemies' locations.

Cypress, the third-generation chip released in October 2023, enables the low-frequency original sound. The product represents a historic breakthrough as it tackles the low-frequency issue that dynamic drivers cannot handle well. After trying and learning about Cypress, an analyst commented that if xMEMS did not launch the chip, the industry likely would have to wait for 10 to 20 years before another company takes on the challenge.

Q: What is the crucial factor for xMEMS to revolutionize human audio perception?

A: I think the key is our employees, which are mostly Taiwanese semiconductor engineers. Only two quit their jobs in the company's six years of history. Many of the staff asked to invest their money in xMEMS.

While Taiwanese engineers are generally recognized for their ability to lower costs, xMEMS witnesses their innovation and capability to build things from scratch, something many would neglect. It has something to do with enterprise culture and value.

I often joke that you can randomly pick several xMEMS employees and form a band because many are good at and enthusiastic about music. Therefore, they can conduct professional testing on the products they develop.

Q: How will xMEMS redefine the MEMS speaker market? Will other market players accept your plan?

A: We plan to define the so-called MEMS speaker more precisely as the SoC speaker. xMEMS has been the only one to realize the SoC speaker, holding a technique lead for at least three years. The company has also enhanced its cost competitiveness rapidly. This is why we can define the MEMS speaker.

For now, we plan to operate through different partnerships. Details will be more explicit in the second half of the year. Traditional dynamic driver makers will also join the effort. They have heard the bugle calls for revolution and are willing to accelerate transformation to avoid elimination. Iconic companies in the application market will also participate in the collaboration.

Q: It is said that Apple has been pushing xMEMS for the solution for Vision Pro. Is Cypress the solution? What other segments will xMEMS enter in the future?

A: xMEMS does not comment on any potential interactions with customers. However, customers have asked for small-sized MEMS speakers for future electronic products. Many have not set requirements for MEMS' audio frequency because they know the technique bar is high. The frequency is also why xMEMS can impress its customers.

The market has discussed Saratoga, a product xMEMS has not released. I am not sure when we will bring it to the market. It could be six months later, at the end of this year, 1.5 years later, or even longer than that.

Saratoga's biggest advantage is that it can handle high, medium, and low-frequency sounds together. Imagine that in the future, wearing an Augmented Reality (AR) or Virtual Reality (VR) headset will no longer feel like putting a TV on your head, something many have complained about. In addition, smartphones will easily become mobile speakers with Saratoga.

The solution will also reduce an EV's weight without effort. Saratoga's volume is only one-three thousandth of that of a traditional home speaker. Of course, presenting better original sound and providing a more enhanced user experience is the point.
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US EV manufacturers watch BYD's birdie

BYD's new Seagull has caught the attention of US automakers.

Dubbed the "mini Lamborghini," the Seagull has taken the global automotive market by storm with its low price and high performance. It has a starting price of only US$9,700, and BYD successfully reduced costs through simplified design and efficient manufacturing.

Electrek said the Seagull is equipped with the company's blade batteries, offering two versions with capacities of 30.08 kWh and 38.88 kWh, with maximum ranges of 305 kilometers and 405 kilometers, respectively. The Seagull reaches a charge of 80% in just 30 minutes and features a 10.1-inch rotating central control screen for a minimalist design.

It is worth noting that the Seagull was designed by Wolfgang Egger, a former Lamborghini designer. The Seagull is set to place unprecedented pressure on American car manufacturers.

BYD has a significant cost advantage because it manufactures nearly all its components except for windows and tires. The company's next-generation electric vehicle platform is expected to further reduce costs and put more pressure on US automakers.

Although it has not yet been launched in the US, US automakers are watching BYD's bird very closely. Ford and GM are reconsidering their strategies to compete with Chinese brands.

Former senior executive at General Motors (GM) Terry Woychowski said BYD's Seagull electric car is a wake-up call for the entire industry. In an interview with CNBC, he said that US automakers need to accelerate their pace to maintain competitiveness.

Ford plans to introduce more affordable small electric cars, with the first model expected to hit the market in 2026 with a starting price of around $25,000. GM also plans to launch a new generation of Bolt EV in 2025, utilizing the Ultium battery platform and incorporating LFP batteries to reduce costs.

Although BYD has yet to enter the US passenger EV market, the Seagull would undoubtedly make a splash when it lands in the US.
Carl Higbie, candidate for Congress in the 4th District, addresses the Greenwich Republican Town Committee on Feb. 26, 2014. Keelin Daly Greenwich resident Carl Higbie, a former employee of the Trump Administration, hosts a Town Hall-style meeting at Greenwich Town Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2019. Matthew Brown/Hearst Connecticut Media Former Navy SEAL and Trump political operative Carl Higbie chats at his home in the Cos Cob section of Greenwich, Conn. Thursday, Sept. 5, 2019. Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media

MILFORD  City Democratic leaders are criticizing local Republicans for selecting a former Donald Trump appointee who resigned over "racist, sexist, anti-Muslim and anti-gay" radio comments as the keynote speaker for the GOP party's annual fundraiser May 30.

Carl Higbie, a Newsmax host, ex-Navy SEAL and a former Trump administration liaison, will be the keynote speaker for the Lincoln Reagan Dinner in Stratford on Saturday. Milford Democrats have taken to social media, calling him "an individual notorious for extremely intolerant and discriminatory views" and said it was "shameful" that he has been invited to speak at the event.

"It is profoundly disconcerting to witness many who have been elected, who are supposed to represent the entirety of our community  a community that embraces people from all walks of life  giving credence to such a divisive figure by attending this event," the party said in a Facebook post on Tuesday. "Hate has no place in Milford."

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Milford GOP Chairman John Drapp said he found the posts "pretty entertaining" because "what they are talking about are things that happened years if not decades ago."

Higbie resigned in 2018 from his position as chief of external affairs at the Corporation for National and Community Service, which oversees organizations that include AmeriCorps and SeniorCorps after a CNN investigation found that he had made the racist comments against Black Americans, Muslims, women, LGBT people, veterans suffering from PTSD and immigrants as host of the radio program Sound of Freedom, from 2013 to 2016.

"This really is a very high-profile national person who has a very strong history of this type of behavior  bigoted and racist," said Kathy Lutz, incoming chairperson of the Milford Democratic Town Committee, who questioned why the local GOP would invite Higbie to speak at one of its events.

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Higbie has apologized for the comments and continues to be an entertaining dinner speaker, Drapp said.

"For starters, he is on TV. He is engaging enough to give them a show," Drapp said. "He is also a combat vet who knows a thing or two about politics. Our present president has said some things in the past that were not meant the way they are interpreted."

Local Republican advertisements for the dinner touted Higbie as "an incredible patriot."

A Greenwich resident, Higbie "will not only be our keynote speaker, but our dinner will be the first chance anyone has to get a signed copy of his upcoming book Profiles In Freedom," the advertisement states.

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The dinner is the Republicans first major fundraiser of the year. The GOP is charging $100 to $200 per ticket for the dinner at Vazzano's Four Seasons banquet hall.
China eases rules on cross-border data flows

The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has recently unveiled the "Regulations to Promote and Standardize Cross-Border Data Flows," aimed at smoothing the path for international data exchange while introducing oversight measures.

Under these rules, as long as data doesn't fall under "critical data" and complies with security and personal data protection standards, no special reporting is required for cross-border transfers. This signals a response to the grievances of foreign businesses, suggesting a relaxation of regulations surrounding cross-border data transfers in China.

The CAC provided examples to illustrate the scope of the regulations: data utilized in international trade, cross-border logistics, academic collaborations, global manufacturing, and advertising, among other sectors, need not be reported if it doesn't contain personal or critical information. Additionally, companies with fewer than 100,000 users in a year and no sensitive personal data in their datasets are exempt from reporting requirements.

Moreover, China's free trade zones have been granted autonomy to establish lists delineating prohibited categories for overseas data transmission, subject to approval by regulatory authorities. There are 20 zones across China, including major cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

However, industries and entities identified as "critical information infrastructure" are still mandated to report data transfers abroad due to the sensitive nature of their operations impacting national security. These sectors include telecommunications, energy, transportation, finance, and defense technology.

Furthermore, companies holding substantial user data, exceeding one million users for overseas transmission or containing sensitive data from over ten thousand users, are also subject to reporting requirements.

Bloomberg's analysis highlights lingering ambiguities within the regulations, notably the discretionary power wielded by regulatory bodies in defining "critical data." Nevertheless, it acknowledges the regulations' potential to alleviate compliance burdens for small to medium-sized enterprises. Moreover, multinational corporations may find reassurance in reduced concerns regarding data collection, particularly in scenarios like recruitment processes.

Comparatively, China's data transmission regulations, introduced in 2021, are deemed more stringent than the European Union's data protection policies, posing heightened compliance challenges for businesses across sectors. Challenges such as sluggish approval processes for data transmission persist, impacting industries ranging from hospitality to banking.

Pressure from foreign business entities has been instrumental in advocating for relaxed restrictions, underscored by discussions on overseas data transmission during the China-EU Summit in December 2023. This signals a dialogue between China and the EU concerning data governance issues.

According to Trivium, a Chinese policy research institution, the relaxation of data transmission regulations holds significance, indicative of the Chinese government's responsiveness to concerns voiced by foreign enterprises. However, hurdles may still exist in navigating cross-border data transfers for major players in the finance, pharmaceutical, and automotive industries.

Joint-Win Partners highlights the newfound clarity offered by the regulations, emphasizing their role in assuaging concerns for foreign investors and mitigating compliance costs for enterprises.
DNP to supply photomasks to Rapidus for 2nm chips in 2027

Japan-based semiconductor material provider Dai Nippon Printing (DNP) will supply Rapidus with the photomasks for 2nm chips after mass production, scheduled for 2027.

According to DNP's press release and Nikkei, following the development of photomasks that support 3nm logical chips made by EUV lithography in 2023, the company will begin full-scale development of a photomask for 2nm logic chips that support EUV lithography in fiscal 2024 (April 2024 to March 2025) and plans to invest JPY50 billion (US$330 million) to bring online its second and third Multi-Beam Mask Writing (MBMW) tools for 2nm generation EUV lithography after introducing its first MBMW machine in 2016.

DNP expects to complete the development of a photomask for 2nm generation by fiscal 2025 and begin mass production of the material in Kamifukuoka, Saitama Prefecture, in fiscal 2027.

DNP has also partnered with Imec, a Belgium-based microelectronics research center, to develop photomasks for the next generation of EUV processes. Another Japanese company, Toppan, is collaborating with IBM in the US to develop photomasks for use in 2nm chip processes. The goal is to commence mass production by 2026, likely also for Rapidus.

Major chipmakers like TSMC and Samsung Electronics make photomasks or pellicles for 3nm and 5nm chips without sourcing them from other material suppliers. Excluding in-house photomask production mentioned above, the market is controlled by Japan-based DNP, Toppan, Hoha, and US-based Photronics.

The expansion in investment announced by DNP in photomask for advanced chips indicates the clustering of suppliers in the chip ecosystem in Japan following Rapidus' foray into developing and manufacturing 2nm logical chips. Besides photomask manufacturers, Taiyo Nippon Sanso will produce industrial gas production equipment at its new Chitose, Hokkaido factory starting in 2025 for Rapidus' trial production. Rapidus is talking with TOK, JSR, and Shin-Etsu Chemical regarding the supply of resistors.
SK Hynix reportedly planning new packaging facility for HBM in the US

Following the plan to construct an advanced semiconductor packaging facility in Indiana, United States, SK Hynix recently detailed its site selection in West Lafayette, as reported by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ). The total investment scale is approximately US$4 billion, targeting the demand for Nvidia's High Bandwidth Memory (HBM).

According to reports from WSJ and South Korean media ZD Net Korea, SK Hynix plans to invest US$4 billion to build a semiconductor packaging plant in West Lafayette, Indiana. It is expected to be operational by 2028, with the board expected to approve the decision shortly. SK Hynix's packaging facility in the United States is situated near the renowned Purdue University and is expected to create around 800 to 1,000 job opportunities.

SK Hynix's packaging facility in Indiana will be responsible for supplying the HBM required for Nvidia GPUs. SK Hynix exclusively supplied Nvidia HBM3 in 2023 and is also expected to supply HBM3E starting from the end of March 2024. Establishing a facility in the United States will facilitate closer customer service and maintain competitiveness in the HBM market.

Industry expectations suggest that SK Hynix will receive various support, including tax incentives from Indiana and the US federal government. According to the Semiconductor Industry Research Institute, the cost of constructing packaging facilities in the United States is about 30-35% higher than in South Korea, and it is hoped that various forms of financial support from the US government will help offset these costs.

Additionally, according to WSJ, the Biden Administration, in efforts to expand domestic semiconductor production in the United States, has allocated at least US$30 billion to the packaging sector in the semiconductor subsidy under the Chips Act. The deadline for subsidy applications is April 12th.

Regarding these rumors, SK Hynix stated that while discussions are ongoing regarding the advanced semiconductor packaging project in the United States, no final decision has been made yet.

SK Hynix's CEO Kwak Noh-jung stated in February 2024 that while it's uncertain whether they can decide on the site for the US packaging factory within 2024, they will spare no effort to do so. The company is carefully considering various options, and all states in the United States are candidates.
Darling stay with me, Dutch government tells ASML

ASML's future may be decided by Beethoven.

According to reports, the Dutch government is trying to convince the homegrown semiconductor giants ASML and NXP to remain in the country. The news follows reports that ASML threatened to leave.

The Hague plans to allocate over 1 billion euros (approximately US$1 billion) to invest in the Brainport region of Eindhoven, the location of ASML's headquarters. The Dutch government's plan is codenamed Project Beethoven.

Dutch media NOS and Bits&Chips quoted sources saying to win the favor of these semiconductor companies, the Dutch cabinet has promised to invest 9 billion euros in educational institutions in the Brainport region. The money will mainly target universities but will include other technical institutions, sources added.

This investment aims to improve local infrastructure, and housing, and expand Eindhoven University of Technology. The Dutch government also proposed canceling the government's contentious plans to tax stock buybacks.

ASML's threat to leave relates to fears over the effects that the Netherlands' increasingly tough immigration policy will have on the company's operations. 40% of ASML's workforce in Holand are not Dutch, the Guardian reported.

Speaking with Dutch broadcaster RTL in January, the company's CEO Peter Peter Wennink said "Ultimately, we can only grow this company if there are enough qualified people. "We prefer to do that here, but if we cannot get those people here, we will get those people in Eastern Europe or in Asia or in the United States," he added.

Reuters reported that Dutch Trade Minister Geoffrey van Leeuwen told the Dutch newspaper Het Financieele Dagblad that ASML is an important Dutch company. Defending its interests is a top priority, he added.

It is reported that Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte will visit China on March 26-27 and meet President Xi Jinping. ASML equipment exports and related policies are becoming a focal point of discussions.

Most of ASML's export licenses to China are set to expire by the end of 2024. It is still unknown whether the Dutch government will approve the sale of billions of euros worth of advanced equipment to China.

If the Hague decides against the sale, Chinese chip manufacturers may turn to Japanese equipment suppliers such as Nikon and Canon. They could also attempt to work with Shanghai Microelectronics to replace ASML equipment.
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Photos by Eric Fortier [enlarge] The new HQ consists of two semi-cylindrical warehouse buildings, notable for their arching roof forms.





Skylab Architecture has moved into a one-of-a-kind new headquarters in Portland's Northwest Industrial area. The new HQ is in a duo of former warehouses originally built in the mid-1940s for the Titan Metal Products Corp.





. . .
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WASHINGTON (AP)  U.S. consumer confidence held steady this month even as Americans are still concerned about high prices and feeling less optimistic about the short-term future.

The Conference Board, a business research group, said Tuesday that its consumer confidence index ticked down to 104.7 in March from a revised 104.8 in February. The index measures both Americans' assessment of current economic conditions and their outlook for the next six months. The index measuring Americans short-term expectations for income, business and the job market fell further, while consumers' view of current conditions improved.





. . .
Former President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at 40 Wall Street after a pre-trial hearing at Manhattan criminal court, Monday, March 25, 2024, in New York. A New York judge has scheduled an April 15 trial date in former President Donald Trump's hush money case. Judge Juan M. Merchan made the ruling Monday. Frank Franklin/AP

NEW YORK (AP)  Donald Trump lashed out Wednesday at the New York judge who put him under a gag order ahead of his April 15 hush-money criminal trial, making a fallacious claim about his daughter and urging him to step aside from the case.

In a social media post, the former president suggested without evidence that Judge Juan M. Merchan was kowtowing to his daughters interests as a Democratic political consultant. He also made a claim  later repudiated by court officials  that she had posted a social media photo showing Trump behind bars.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, complained on his Truth Social platform that the gag order issued Tuesday was illegal, un-American, unConstitutional. He said that Merchan, a veteran Manhattan jurist, was wrongfully attempting to deprive me of my First Amendment Right to speak out against the Weaponization of Law Enforcement by Democratic rivals.

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Trump claimed that Merchans daughter, Loren Merchan, whose firm has worked on campaigns for President Joe Biden and other Democrats, had recently posted a photo on social media depicting her obvious goal of seeing him jailed.

In a statement, a spokesperson for New Yorks state court system said that claim was false and that the social media account Trump was referencing no longer belongs to Loren Merchan. It appears to have been taken over by someone else after she deleted it about a year ago, court spokesperson Al Baker said.

The account on X, formerly known as Twitter, is not linked to her email address, nor has she posted under that screenname since she deleted the account. Rather, it represents the reconstitution, last April, and manipulation of an account she long ago abandoned, Baker said.

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Messages seeking comment were left for Loren Merchan and Trump's campaign.

Trump did not link to the purported photo, but an X account under the name LM showed a photo illustration of an imprisoned Trump as its profile picture Wednesday morning. It was later changed to an image of Vice President Kamala Harris as a child.

Loren Merchans consulting firm had linked to that account in its social media posts in past years, but it is now private with no posts displayed and states that it joined the platform in April 2023, after Baker said she deleted it. Usernames on X can be taken over by other users after theyre deleted.

The gag order, which prosecutors had requested, bars Trump from either making or directing other people to make public statements on his behalf about jurors and potential witnesses in the hush-money trial, such as his lawyer turned nemesis Michael Cohen and porn star Stormy Daniels. It also prohibits any statements meant to interfere with or harass the courts staff, prosecution team or their families.

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It does not bar comments about Merchan or his family, nor does it prohibit criticism of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, the elected Democrat whose office is prosecuting Trump.

Trumps post insinuating that Loren Merchan had posted the photo came after conservative commentator Laura Loomer posted a story online Tuesday claiming to have unearthed her X account.

So, let me get this straight, Trump wrote on Truth Social, the Judges daughter is allowed to post pictures of her dream of putting me in jail ... but I am not allowed to talk about the attacks against me, and the Lunatics trying to destroy my life and prevent me from winning the 2024 Presidential Election, which I am dominating?

Braggs office declined to comment.

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Trump's three-part Truth Social post was his first reaction to the gag order. His focus on Merchan's daughter echoed his lawyers' arguments last year when they urged the judge to exit the case. The judge had also made several small donations totaling $35 to Democratic causes during the 2020 campaign, including $15 to Biden.

Merchan said then that a state court ethics panel found that Loren Merchan's work had no bearing on his impartiality. The judge said in a ruling last September that he was certain of his ability to be fair and impartial" and that Trumps lawyers had failed to demonstrate that there exists concrete, or even realistic reasons for recusal to be appropriate, much less required on these grounds.

In a recent interview, Merchan told The Associated Press that he and his staff were working diligently to prepare for the historic first trial of a former president.

Theres no agenda here," Merchan said. "We want to follow the law. We want justice to be done.

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Trumps hush-money case, set to be the first of his four criminal cases to go to trial, centers on allegations that he falsely logged payments to Cohen as legal fees in his companys books when they were for Cohen's work during the 2016 campaign covering up negative stories about Trump. That included $130,000 Cohen paid Daniels on Trumps behalf so she wouldnt publicize her claim of a sexual encounter with him years earlier.

Trump pleaded not guilty last April to 34 counts of falsifying business records, a felony punishable by up to four years in prison, though there is no guarantee that a conviction would result in jail time. He denies having sex with Daniels and his lawyers have said that the payments to Cohen were legitimate legal expenses, not part of any coverup.

In issuing the gag order, Merchan cited Trump's history of threatening, inflammatory, denigrating remarks about people involved in his legal cases. A violation could result in Trump being held in contempt of court, fined or even jailed.

Though not covered by the restrictions, Merchan referenced Trump's various comments about him as an example of his rhetoric. The gag order mirrors one imposed and largely upheld by a federal appeals court panel in Trumps Washington, D.C., election interference criminal case.

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Trumps lawyers fought a gag order, warning it would amount to unconstitutional and unlawful prior restraint on his free speech rights.

Merchan had long resisted imposing one, recognizing Trumps special status as a former president and current candidate and not wanting to trample his ability to defend himself publicly.

But, he said, as the trial nears, he found that his obligation to ensuring the integrity of the case outweighs First Amendment concerns. He said Trump's statements have induced fear and necessitated added security measures to protect his targets and investigate threats.
Rose Dugdale, the English aristocrat who led a notorious IRA art heist, had no regrets about turning her back on a life of privilege, her funeral has heard.

Mourners were told that the disinherited heiress, who died earlier this month at the age of 82, always remained an enigma to the British establishment, with her legacy forever interwoven in the story of the republican movement in Ireland.

At the close of her cremation service in Dublin, the curtains were drawn across her coffini to the soundtrack of the Pet Shop Boys hit Its A Sin.

Earlier the coffin had been draped in the Irish national flag as it was carried towards the Crematorium Chapel of Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin, led by a lone piper.

The former IRA prisoners death came just days before a film about her life was released in cinemas.

The rebellious former debutante from Devon rejected the trappings of her early life to join the IRA in the 1970s and went on to mastermind a multimillion-pound fine art heist.

The Oxford graduate was the ringleader of the 1974 IRA raid on the Russborough House estate in Co Wicklow, in which 19 valuable paintings were stolen.

She was involved in other IRA operations during the Troubles, including a failed bid to drop bombs on to a police station in Strabane in Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland, using a helicopter hijacked across the border in Co Donegal.

The republican bombmaker was convicted and sentenced to nine years in prison for her IRA activities. She was pregnant at the time and gave birth to a son, Ruairi, inside Limerick prison.

Her son joined her partner and republican colleague Jim Monaghan at the funeral service on Wednesday.

Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams and several party colleagues were among those in attendance.

Ms Dugdale had been living in a care home in Dublin in recent years.

Addressing the service from his wheelchair, Mr Monaghan described his partner as a force of nature and an all rounder in revolution, politics and education.

Rose was a woman of many talents, she was well known as an IRA volunteer but she also taught economics and politics and sometimes a bit of philosophy, he said.

Mr Monaghan thanked the staff at the care home for everything they had done in caring for his partner.

Former Sinn Fein Assembly member and MEP Martina Anderson presided over the service on Wednesday afternoon.

She said her friend had a pivotal role in the republican movement.

I stand here with a sore yet proud heart reminded of the remarkable journey I and so many others shared together with Rose in the depths of the Irish republican struggle, she said.

Roses path from a privileged upbringing to the heart of the republican struggle was marked by her insatiable and unwavering commitment to economic equality, social justice and human rights.

Ms Anderson added: Roses legacy will forever be intertwined with the tapestry of Irelands fight for freedom.

Sinn Fein TD for Dublin South Central Aengus O Snodaigh delivered the eulogy.

Rose was an enigma to the establishment, they couldnt and cant still grasp that somebody could turn their back on privilege in order to help the masses, he said.

If they had spent any time with Rose they would have come away with a clear understanding of how her passion, her drive to help the oppressed, her determination to rebalance the world order was Rose literally putting her money where her mouth was.

Having enjoyed an early life of privilege in England, living with all the trappings of wealth, she went on to reject that life that was being shaped for her and embraced wholeheartedly, with no regrets, a life in struggle against British imperialism and world imperialism.

She was energetic, with a passion for justice, tackling poverty, and seeking the redistribution of wealth and rebalancing of power.

A tribute from Ms Dugdales son Ruairi was read by her long-time friend and republican colleague Marion Coyle at the close of the service.

You will always live on in our hearts and never be forgotten  I love you ma, he stated.

The film telling the story of the art heist, Baltimore, was released in cinemas this month.

Actress Imogen Poots plays Rose Dugdale in the thriller directed by Joe Lawlor and Christine Molloy.
A major overhaul of migration rules could see Ireland deporting a significant number of people back to other EU countries where they had first sought asylum protection.

The Irish Government has agreed to adopt proposals that will see the state committing to enhanced security checks, a fast-track return of undocumented migrants and a faster, legally binding time frame for application decisions.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee sought agreement from the Cabinet for Ireland to join the new EU Pact on Migration and Asylum to co-operate with other member states on managing migration.

 Minister @HMcEntee secures approval from Government to opt-in to measures of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. Read more here:  https://t.co/9pGaLZRXTP pic.twitter.com/mNq7nAZWP9  Department of Justice  (@DeptJusticeIRL) March 27, 2024

Under the revised rules, migrants arriving in Ireland who have sought or been granted asylum in another member state will face a more rigorous process of being returned.

The measure is expected to act as a deterrent for those travelling to Ireland from another EU country.

Between 50% and 70% of migrants arriving in Ireland have travelled through another EU country.

The updating of the Eurodac regulation (the EU fingerprint database) will give more information on how many secondary applicants are arriving in Ireland.

The strengthened rules will place an obligation on EU member states to process asylum applications quicker, to take back secondary applicants faster and provide for a more streamlined process by which the requests are made.

Ms McEntee said: The aim of the pact is to align asylum procedures right across the EU.

We will have quicker processing times, which will be mandatory. We will have a more comprehensive return policy which will be of particular benefit to Ireland, as so much of migration here involves secondary movement.

In other words, people who have already sought or been granted asylum in other member states.

It will also provide for more enhanced security checks, so that we can identify at earlier stages someone who might be a risk.

The legislation will provide for a complete replacement of the International Protection Act 2015, and give legally binding time frames for making decisions on international protection applications and appeals.

We know that the quicker an application is turned around, the quicker and easier it is to remove a person with a negative decision or to support a person to integrate into the community.

There will be a greater focus on efficient returns in unsuccessful applicants. There will be accelerated processing, including for those from safe countries, those who have false or no documents and those who have crossed borders illegally.

There will be a new border procedure to quickly process people who are particularly unlikely to be granted international protection.

She said that a new solidarity mechanism will require countries to either make financial contributions or to agree to relocate some asylum seekers, particularly from countries facing migrant pressures.

This is a mechanism which Ireland could indeed benefit from in the future, she said.

There will also be expansion into the categories of migrants who will be fingerprinted and will be checked against the Eurodac database.

Ms McEntee said she has also ordered a review of countries to be designated as safe.

She added: In terms of secondary movements (migrants), the figures are between 50% and 70% and as we update Eurodac, we will have a much clearer picture of what that actual figure is.

Ms McEntee said that under the updated system, countries will be legally bound to take a person back.

So a country like ours that is an island, theres a significant proportion of people here who have already come through another country or applied for asylum in another member state, she added.

There were a total of seven measures considered by the Government on Wednesday as part of the new rules.

The updated system, expected to come into effect in 2026, will give better data on trends on the movement of people.

Other biometric data will include facial imaging, while an enhanced security screening will flag any issues on the new system.

Ireland will also be under an obligation to publish a report every year setting out the movement of migrants, showing particular trends as well as updating its capacity.

While it is difficult to predict the movement of people, it is understood that the measures will have an impact on the number of migrants arriving in Ireland.

Earlier on Wednesday, outgoing Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said: Its much better to work together to manage irregular migration as a European Union, strengthening our outer borders of the European Union, co-operating with transit countries.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said: The adoption of the European pact on asylum agreement will facilitate faster processing of those seeking asylum and provide stronger checks in addition to what we already have.

Its a political issue in Ireland, its a political issue across Europe.

He said that migration is a significant issue globally.

Anywhere you go in the world now there is significant migration, Mr Martin said.

The EU has reached agreements with Egypt and Turkey in terms of the management of those fleeing Syria or in the Middle East or Sudan.

You go to South America and Central America and there is massive migration there, much heading to North America.
Louth based Senator John McGahon, was one of Minister Harriss early endorsers last Thursday as Fine Gael TDs and Senators announced their support for a new leader of the Fine Gael party.

It followed the announcement by Leo Varadkar last Tuesday that he was stepping down as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael.

Simon Harris declared his candidacy for the Fine Gael leadership when he received support from over half of those present at the parliamentary party meeting held by Fine Gael last week,

Speaking to LMFM at 8am last Thursday morning, Senator McGahon said I first met Simon in 2008 at a Young Fine Gael Summer School event in Carlingford, we have been friends for over 15 years and have served alongside each other in the Oireachtas for the last four years.

Sharing his views on Minister Harris' performance to date, Senator McGahon said: I look at Simon's record as a TD and a Minister and its clear that he was able to consistently deliver.

Both as a Junior Minister in the Department of Finance, leading our country through the initial dark days of Covid as Health Minister and more recently, putting a huge push on the importance apprenticeships as Minister for Higher Education.

The Fine Gael Senator continued: As Minister for Higher Education, Simon has been extremely supportive of DkIT and its mission for university status, he is also a big supporter of the regional skills training centre on the Coes Road and visited it recently to see the important work they are doing to increase and promote apprenticeships.

I believe that this chance of leadership will bring a moment of renewal and an opportunity to reconnect with people right across the country.

I think Simon will focus on what we can get done between now and the end of term, which is March 2025 and how Government can deliver for people.

Senator McGahon added, Simon has a huge amount of ability, energy and determination and I know he will take that with him into the role of Taoiseach. He has achieved so much in each of his Government roles and I know he will be able to do the same as Taoiseach.

He concluded, this is an exciting time for Ireland, our youngest Taoiseach to date, with all the energy and enthusiasm of youth, coupled with the experience and ability that serving in three Government Departments has yielded.
Dundalk hotels, The Gateway Hotel and Fairways Hotel, both part of the iNUA Collection recently presented their local Down Syndrome Ireland branch with cheques for 2500 from the funds raised across the iNUA collection.

The iNUA Collection recently celebrated five years supporting Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) having chosen them as their charity partner in 2019. They also celebrate five years supporting the charitys National Employment Programme with the iNUA Collection now employing over 20 Down Syndrome Ireland colleagues.

The iNUA Collection raised a further 30,000 through their recent Christmas voucher campaign, where there was a 5 per every 100 contribution to the charity for all vouchers sold across the collection, as well as the "Clean the Planet, Not My Room" campaign which allowed guests to choose not to have their room cleaned for one night and, in turn, donated 1 per room to DSI.

With community as one of our core values here at The iNUA Collection, we are delighted to continue supporting this partnership for a fifth year, said Sean ODriscoll, CEO of The iNUA Collection, using our group resources and expertise to make a positive impact and engaging both guests and teams in this process.

The practical supports offered by Down Syndrome Ireland are invaluable and their work in supporting adult education and independence enhances the lives of thousands of children and adults with Down Syndrome across the country.

Our fundraising efforts are one crucial way for us to support DSI and the important work they do.

These efforts allow us to engage with our guests and colleagues in a meaningful way, building a sense of community and a sense of social responsibility. We are privileged to be part of this journey with DSI.

Deirdre Buckley, The iNUA Collection Director of People & Culture noted:

As a team at iNUA, we unilaterally agreed on partnering with DSI as an excellent organisation but the unexpected win for us all was our introduction to the DSI National Employment Programme to bring sustainable employment to members as part of the iNUA Collection partnership.

Graduates from the DSI employment programme now come to us with skills that enable work readiness and so much more, so we have the opportunity to work alongside these graduates who have become valuable permanent colleagues.
A nurse who altered prescriptions as she didn't think her doctor would give her any more of a certain drug because she was addicted to it, appeared at last week's district court.

Barrister Suzanne Dooner said her client Deirdre Payne (54) of Riverdale, Clonmore Edenderry, was pleading guilty to the offences and had been fully cooperative.

Ms Payne was charged with entering four pharmacies on different dates with duly issued prescriptions which had been altered with intent to deceive.

The incidents took place at Ryan's Chemist on Main Street in Daingean, on November 22, 2022. Medical Hall, JKL Street, Edenderry on September 23, 2022. Tedders Chemist, JKL Street, Edenderry on September 8, 2022 and Quinn's Pharmacy, Granary Court, Edenderry on September 7, 2022.

In her evidence, Sergeant Justine Reilly said two of the prescriptions were copied and the other two had been altered.

Barrister Suzanne Dooner said her client was very ashamed and embarrassed and it was having a significant impact on her. She had an alcohol addiction and had attended the Rutland Centre. She also attended St John of God and is doing well. In addition she attends AA and completed a course in Cuan Mhuire in 2023.

Deirdre Payne is currently suspended from her work and this will have a significant impact on her life going forward. Ms Dooner said she was supported by her husband who accompanied her in court. She said she had allowed her mental health condition to get the better of her. Ms Dooner asked if the court would consider a probation report.

Judge Cody said there was a very high bar for a nurse working in a hospital with prescriptions. He said it was not the case at the moment that she was fully recovered.

He adjourned the case for 12 weeks to June 26, 2024 for a probation and welfare report.

''I won't make any promises''. He said, when a nurse forges a prescription it is not conducive to doing so. An application for legal aid was granted by Judge Cody.
Wearing traditional Chinese clothing while visiting scenic spots becomes a hit with young people

People's Daily Online) 15:23, March 27, 2024

Wearing traditional Chinese clothing while visiting scenic spots has become a popular activity among young people in China in recent years.

Passengers dressed in traditional Chinese attire could ride the subway for free for about one week in Suzhou city, east China's Jiangsu Province during this year's Spring Festival holiday. As a result, the horse-faced skirt, or mamianqun in Chinese, which is a type of Hanfu, a style of clothing traditionally worn by the Han people, became a hit among young people during the holiday.

Visitors in Hanfu (a traditional Chinese costume) pose for a photo amid cherry blossoms at the Wangyue park in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, March 17, 2024. (Photo: China News Service/Yang Huafeng)

Zhao Xi (pseudonym) is a 27-year-old Hanfu enthusiast. Dressed in traditional Chinese attire, she traveled to Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province last year. She found that young people clad in traditional Chinese clothing were everywhere in tourist attractions, including the Chengdu Wuhou Shrine.

"People used to think that wearing traditional Chinese clothing while walking down a street was strange. But now, people are getting used to seeing passers-by in traditional attire," Zhao said.

"People born in the 1990s and 2000s like to wear traditional clothing when traveling because they have realized that their cultural identity is related to Hanfu and it has become a fashion," said Pan Lusheng, chairman of the Chinese Folk Literature and Art Association.

"It is a spontaneous trend and demonstrates the resurgence of traditional culture," Pan added.

Chen Chen from central China's Hunan Province has collected many traditional Chinese outfits in various styles. She selects different traditional clothes according to the scenery of the scenic spots for each trip.

When buying traditional attire, Chen also pays attention to the embroidery patterns and their cultural value, in addition to color matching and style.

Wearing traditional attire is not just for taking pretty pictures, but also for gaining a deeper understanding of the cultural connotation behind the clothing and the feeling of ancient Chinese poems and essays in an immersive way, Chen said.

Bi Hong is an embroidery artist and a master of arts and crafts in Beijing who has been dedicated to traditional clothing research, protection and innovative development for nearly 28 years.

Bi's studio houses an old camphor wood box full of court costumes and embroidery works from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) that she has meticulously collected for over more than 20 years. She knows all about the year, materials, and color matching of each piece of her collected works, as well as the symbolic meaning behind the embroidery patterns.

From Bi's perspective, traditional Chinese attire reflects the unique cultural background, aesthetics and exquisite craftsmanship of her ancestors.

The embroidery patterns on the traditional clothes hide the words of people from ancient times. For example, the chrysanthemum pattern implies a long life and a peaceful residence.

Traditional Chinese clothing is an integral part of China's excellent traditional culture, Bi said.

Since ancient times, China has been a nation whose people value etiquette highly and a country known for its attire. Clothing records the evolution of aesthetic characteristics across different historical periods and is one of the manifestations of Chinese civilization and etiquette," Bi added.

Bi believes that the popularity of traditional Chinese costumes will continue to grow. Additionally, she hopes that more enthusiasts will devote themselves to the protection, inheritance and innovative development of traditional Chinese attire through learning, research and practice.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
FILE - Jeffrey Clark, Assistant Attorney General for the Environment and Natural Resources Division, speaks during a news conference at the Justice Department in Washington, on Sept. 14, 2020. Former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark could face sanctions, including disbarment in Washington, D.C., if a three-person panel thinks he violated ethics rules in his role in trying to help former President Donald Trump overturn the 2020 presidential election. Susan Walsh/AP

WASHINGTON (AP)  Former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clarks efforts to help then-President Donald Trump overturn the 2020 election were characterized Tuesday as a coup attempt by Washington, D.C., Office of Disciplinary Counsel at a hearing to determine if Clark should be sanctioned.

Clark is accused of attempting to engage in dishonest conduct during his role in aftermath of the last presidential election.

Much of the hearing before the three-member Board of Responsibility focused on a letter which Clark sent to his superiors at the time, Jeffrey Rosen and Richard Donoghue. Clark suggested the letter be sent to Georgia indicating that the Justice Department was investigating irregularities in the states election and state lawmakers should void Bidens electoral win.

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Hamilton Fox III, the disciplinary counsel at the hearing, said the letter and Clarks continued attempts to intercede on Trumps behalf, including multiple meetings with Trump in violation Justice Department procedure, were essentially a coup attempt at the Department of Justice.

Clarks attorney, Harry MacDougald, said the action being taken against his client was unprecedented. He said the letter was not supposed to have been public and should have fallen under various privilege protections. He added that the letter was part of the debate that normally occurs between lawyers. He said punishing Clark in those circumstances would have a chilling effect, a point that Donoghue agreed with during the cross examination portion of his testimony when he said it could discourage people from "being as candid as they otherwise might be.

Much of the hearing played like a rerun of the fraud claims from the 2020 election and the House Jan. 6 committee testimony, including a rehash of the dramatic Jan. 3, 2021 meeting when several attorneys within the White House and Justice Department threatened to quit if Trump fired Rosen as the acting attorney general and named Clark.

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The testimony also highlighted how much pressure was put on the Justice Department directly by Trump. He spoke multiple times to Donoghue and Rosen about allegations of fraud and misconduct.

As events continued the pair met with Clark at one point to talk about the letter in what Donoghue described as a contentious meeting. He said he and Rosen tried to convince Clark that the department had examined various claims, while other things fell outside the department's purview. We fundamentally disagreed on what the evidence showed, Donoghue said during testimony. It was just we were almost living in two different worlds.

Former deputy White House counsel Patrick Philbin, who knew Clark, testified that he spoke with the then-acting head of the Civil Division and told him the theories he was espousing and had been debunked. But, Philbin said, he felt Clark pursued what he thought was his duty because Clark believed there were serious issues in the election.

During his testimony Donoghue acknowledged that there were instances of fraud and misconduct that year but nothing of a level to overturn the election. MacDougalds questioning focused on absentee balloting in Fulton County, Georgia and how there were legitimate concerns that had not been fully examined by the department.

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The hearing is expected to resume Wednesday with Rosen testifying.
FILE PHOTO  The state capitol building in Hartford. A legislative committee on Tuesday, over GOP opposition, approved two amendments to the Connecticut Constitution on environmental protection, gender rights and reproductive care. Carol Kaliff/For Hearst Connecticut Media State Sen. Mae Flexer, D-Killingly, co-chairwoman of the legislative Government Administration & Elections Committee, in a file photo. Christian Abraham / Hearst Connecticut Media From the left, state Rep. Gale Mastrofrancesco and Sen. Rob Sampson, both from Wolcott, who are the ranking Republicans on the Government Administration and Elections Committee of the General Assembly. Ken Dixon/Hearst Connecticut Media

After long debates on exiting laws on environmental-protection, abortion and gender-affirming rights, the Democratic-dominated legislative Government Administration & Elections Committee on Tuesday approved two questions that could possibly have voters deciding amendments to the state Constitution within the next two years.

To get the ballot questions before voters this year, however, the proposed amendments would require an unlikely three-quarter votes in both the House and Senate, which have 97-54 and 24-12 majorities, respectively. If approved by simple majorities this year and again during the two-year term of the next legislature that convenes next January, the questions would be put to voters during the statewide election of November 2026.

The GAE committee in its last meeting to approve bills before its 5 p.m. deadline Wednesday approved one amendment that would give state residents the right to "clean and healthy air, water, soil, ecosystems and environment and a safe and stable climate for the benefit of public health, safety." The other amendment would codify abortion rights and protect people from discrimination based on "sexual orientation; gender identity and expression; and related health care."

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Both bills, which passed the committee in lop-sided votes in the committee, which has a 13-6 Democratic majority, set off firestorms of opposition led by Sen. Rob Sampson and Rep. Gale Mastrofrancesco, both from Wolcott and the committee's conservative ranking Republicans.

State Sen. Mae Flexer, D-Killingly, co-chairwoman of the committee, said the environmental protection amendment is similar to so-called green constitutional amendments in Montana, Pennsylvania and New York, and are part of a national effort by young people.

"It requires the state to conserve, protect and maintain the state's national resources, and prohibits the diversion of funds that support the state's natural resources," Flexer said. "This measure was brought to us, it's being brought to other states throughout the country, in an effort to ensure that the state is doing everything it can to protect every individual in the state." She said it would provide "another layer of protection" for residents.

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Mastrofrancesco said that making changes to the Constitution "is a big deal" that should be reserved for very rare cases. "Sometimes there are times it needs to change, but I've seen an excess in this committee." In recent years the committee has approved a question approved by statewide voters, to enact early voting, which is occurring this week. In November, voters will decide another proposed constitutional amendment that would allow no-excuse absentee, or mail-in balloting, eliminating a narrow set of reasons including sickness and being out of town on business or higher education.

Connecticut already has aggressive environmental protection standards, and if voted into the Constitution, the amendment would give people grounds for filing expensive civil lawsuits because of the term "enforceable individual right," Mastrofrancesco said. She warned that a flood of litigation against state government could result.

The partisan debate was further turned up a notch over the proposed amendment on abortion and gender-affirmation.

Flexer said if approved by voters, the state Constitution's equal protection clause would include new definitions of discrimination on the basis of sex. "It builds on our state's long history of both standing up for reproductive freedom in our state and advancing LGBTQ-plus equality for residents of our state," Flexer said. "In this moment, when across the country we are seeing unprecedented attacks both on reproductive freedom and on the freedom of members of the LGBTQ-plus community to be who they are and to live their lives in freedom, again, I believe this amendment demonstrates our values here in Connecticut, that we are going to do everything we can to protect those freedoms here in our state. It makes it so in the future, it won't be politicians and judges who are limiting the kind of health care people can seek, but instead it will be doctors and patients that get to make those decisions."

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Sampson promised a "hearty debate" if the bill reaches the Senate floor, charging it would interfere with religious freedom.

"Aborting a child is not the same thing as reproducing or having a right to reproduce," he said. "This is basically to make a statement about abortion. I don't think it's very honest. This is a slap against the people that don't have the same views. And for me, things like this don't belong in constitutions. I know the proponents would try and argue that it's basically allowing people to live as they see fit and no more, but that's not what it does. I don't think anyone has a problem with folks that have an alternative gender identity and expression. Where that ends, though, is when you start to say that your right to live as you choose has to be accepted and adopted by others. This bill goes way beyond that point."

"What we ought to be doing is trying to come up with a nice compromise on these types of policies that recognizes that we have good people on both sides of these issues that legitimately disagree and that they have a right to," Sampson said.

Mastrofracesco added that the proposed ballot question is not clear. "This really opens the door to abortion, up to birth, on demand. Abortion is not health care, and the unborn have rights as well."

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Some Republicans on the committee also blasted proposed legislation that would create a new state holiday  Indigenous Peoples' Day  that would be celebrated sometime between Veterans Day and Christmas, if approved by lawmakers and the governor.

Veteran state Rep. Christie Carpino, R-Cromwell, however, joined Democrats in approving the Indigenous Peoples' Day proposal. Flexer said that during a recent public hearing, an exact day for the new legal holiday was not decided and that committee leaders were looking for more feedback on the appropriate day.

"I really don't have a problem with people celebrating many days," Mastrofrancesco said. "Right now our state workers get 15 vacation days, 15 sick days, 14 holidays  this would make it 15 holidays  three personal days. Which equals nine weeks. Is there anybody in this room that gets nine weeks paid off, a year? If so, I would like your job." That bill also heads next to the Senate.
Connecticut's state Capitol. Hearst Connecticut Media file photo

HARTFORD  Jon Garcia remembered being scared. His family left Aguada, Puerto Rico in 1998 and moved to Meriden where he was enrolled in a class for multilingual learners. He met Carlos and Julio Garcia, twins who had immigrated from Mexico City a year before. The boys quickly became friends as they had a last name and timid personality in common.

Jon Garcia shared the story about his childhood friends during a public hearing last week to advocate for HB 5451, a new bill that would create an Advocate for Immigrant and Multilingual Learner Families at both the statewide Board of Education and certain local districts. This builds on other initiatives that would help support these families, such as a "Bill of Rights" for multilingual students that takes effect in July.

When I speak about this bill, I think of my friends Carlos and Julio and all of their struggles and lack of access to a support system that would allow them the same opportunity to succeed as I was given, Garcia said while speaking in favor of the bill as a member of the Connecticut Education Association.

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The bill was referred earlier this month to the Committee on Government Administration and Elections. If passed as is, it would require the Commissioner of Education to appoint a volunteer Advocate for Immigrant and Multilingual Learner Families who would speak for at least 10 minutes at every meeting starting in July. On a more local level, any Board of Education that has a student population bigger than 2 percent of immigrants or multilingual learners would have to appoint a volunteer advocate or create a nonvoting seat for them on the board.

More than 54,000 students were identified as English Language Learners in the 2023-2024 school year, or about 11 percent of all students, according to data from EdSight, the state Department of Education data portal. This is nearly 20,000 more students than were enrolled in 2014-15, when they were about 6 percent.

The bill received support from education advocacy organizations, such as the Center for Childrens Advocacy, the School and State Finance Project and ConnCAN. The advocates said that creating an additional position would help improve parents communication with the schools and improve outcomes for multilingual and immigrant students.

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Luis Ortiz, state grassroots manager for advocacy for the nonprofit ConnCAN, pointed to statistics from the annual Smarter Balanced Assessments that show that English Learners are significantly behind non-English learners in both English language arts and math.

Because of this, he said that creating an additional position would be helpful so that families have assurance that they are being heard.

Immigrants and multilingual learners; we're not monolithic, he said. Our issues and needs are definitely diverse, and I think you know expecting a body to be able to comprehend all of those needs is very cumbersome and unrealistic so we have had experience where parents have felt left out.

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While Jon Garcia was learning English, he remembered that his friends parents did not speak English. Their dad had to work two jobs to provide for the family while their mother stayed in Mexico. As a result, the parents had no communication with the school and were not able to be the support system at home that Carlos and Julio needed to succeed.

Instead, Garcia had a strong support system and went on to enroll in AP classes, graduate from Platt in 2007 and apply for financial aid at UConn. He graduated with a full-ride scholarship in 2011 and now teaches music in Wilton.

If we want our multilingual learners to be successful and educated contributing members of our society, we need to have someone advocating for them in the state level, he said.

Commissioner of Education Charlene Russell-Tucker was not able to attend the public hearing but submitted written testimony that cautioned against giving specific time to any one demographic group.

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She said the State Board of Education never limits the number of public speakers at any of their meetings and offers interpretation services during public comment if they are notified in advance.

The public, inclusive of Multilingual Learner and immigrant students and families, have the opportunity to speak and advocate during public comment sessions that occur during each State Board of Education meeting, and are common in most, if not all local board of education meetings, she wrote.

Instead, she said that the department has a dedicated education consultant position that advocates on behalf of multilingual learners and immigrant students, as well as a director of equity and language. She also highlighted Parent Bill of Rights guidelines recently released by the Department that give a general guide for multilingual learner families to have equal access to education.

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WHAT are you doing Minister?

That was the pointed question asked by Midleton Fianna Fail councillor Ann Marie Ahern at Mondays meeting of Cork County Council, when discussing correspondence from the Government minister responsible for the insurance industry regarding the issue of flood cover for the many residents and businesses in Midleton impacted by Storm Babet flooding last October.

In her letter Minister of State Jennifer Carroll McNeill said she had met with the chief executive officers of a number of insurance companies and the issue of flood insurance had been a prominent agenda item at these meetings.

The Ministers letter was the latest in a sequence of correspondence which began at the council meeting immediately following Storm Babet, with a motion from Cllr Ahern calling on the minister to clarify what she and her department would be doing in respect of the issue of the denial of flooding insurance to people in Midleton.

During these engagements, I highlighted the effectiveness of flood defences generally and, in particular, in areas such as Bandon, Fermoy, Mallow and Clonakilty, and stressed a number of important expectations for the insurance industry, including the need for insurers to deal with affected policy holders fairly and in accordance with the Central Bank of Ireland Consumer Protection Code; and the need to provide cover where properties are in areas protected by flood defences, said Ms Carroll-MacNeill.

The Minister said that an insurance industry flood task force had been established in November to map out a future strategy.

According to Cllr Ahern, while the ministers response to the councils letter had highlighted a number of agencies such as the Office of Public Works and the insurance companies and others, it failed to mention what the minister herself was doing.

.

The Minister was challenged to commit pen to paper to tell us what she outlined in terms of her discussions with the insurance company representatives.

Is she willing to step up to the mark and indemnify the homes, businesses and communities in east Cork that are now lacking insurance?, said Cllr Ahern.

After some discussion, councillors agreed to write again to Minister Carroll-MacNeill to seek clarification of her discussions with insurance companies.
A CORK city councillor has hit out at a long delay in turning on of pedestrian crossing lights outside a special school for children with disabilities in the north-east of the city.

Labour Party councillor John Maher said it was ridiculous that Cork City Council has not yet activated a new signalised pedestrian crossing on the Old Youghal Road in Banduff.

Weve waited three years to get this project done, he said. We have spent 135,000 to see the job completed, and they still arent in operation.

This crossing is outside Scoil Cara Junior School, which caters for children with additional needs, and will link the communities of Barnavara with Lotamore and surrounding areas.

Mr Maher, who represents the Cork City North-East ward, said he had raised the matter repeatedly at meetings of the North-East Local Area Committee and he had yet to receive a response from the city council.

Weve seen in other parts of city where crossings and lights are operational in no time, yet we continue to wait, he said.

After 135,000 spent, the least we can expect is for these lights to be working. These are the basics we should be ensuring as a local authority.

A Cork City Council spokesperson said there had not been a delay of three years in operationalising this crossing since it substantial completion in October 2023, adding that works had been steadily progressing through the required phases over the past three years.

However before the new lights can be switched on, an ESB connection is required to both operate the lights and facilitate inspection and testing of same to ensure the lights are in proper working order, the spokesperson said.

Cork City Council was currently engaging with and awaiting the ESB connection to progress the works to final completion, it said.
A group of 18 retired primary teachers who share an interest in photography is running an exhibition in Bishopstown this week.

The Retired Teachers' Association of Ireland (RTAI) Cork camera group, which was set up in 2016, meets once a month in the SMA centre in Wilton, under the guidance of their mentor Tony Tobin, who is a keen photographer.

Look out below!, by James Doolan. (Black headed gull captured diving for food at Harper's Island). RTAI Cork Camera Group.

As well as the monthly meetings, the group organises visits to various sites of interest, where members practice the skills they have been learning at the monthly meetings.

The Cygnet, by Bridie O'Brien (Cygnet taken at the Atlantic Pond paying attention to its lost feather). RTAI Cork Camera Group

They have been developing their talents recently and launched the exhibition to showcase their captures at what is the group's second exhibition at Bishopstown Library.

The exhibition was opened on Thursday, March 7 by Denis Minihane who recently retired as staff photographer from The Echo and Irish Examiner publications.

"Rain kissed" (Daffodil), by Brid Scanlon. RTAI Cork Camera Group.

Mr Minihane said he was impressed with the great variety of photographs featured in the exhibition with some imaginative and magical moments captured.

Cathedral de Cadiz, by Kevin O'Sullivan. (Sunset view to the waterfront, and Cadiz Cathedral, Andalucia, Spain). RTAI Cork Camera Group.

The exhibition will run daily at Bishopstown Library until Thursday, March 28.

The group has said they are very grateful to the SMA and to Bishopstown Library for facilitating the launch and the exhibition.
CORK City Chairperson of the Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI) Michael ODonovan has said that an increase in the price of a pint is another blow to the industry and not what publicans were expecting at this time.

It comes as Diageo is to increase the cost of its draft beers by 6 cents from next month following a 12-cent hike announced in February 2023.

The price increase will come into effect on April 15 and will raise the cost of its various draft offerings, including Guinness, Hop House 13, Carlsberg and Rockshore.

Speaking to The Echo, Mr ODonovan said the price increase is unexpected following an increase in the minimum wage and additional mandatory sick days increasing from three days to five days.

This is a bad time to do it, coming on the back of government decisions to increase the minimum wage and sick days, with auto-enrollment for pensions coming later in the year. We would have thought that this year, the breweries would have supported us and not had any price increase. Its not what we expected at this time, he said.

Mr ODonovan said the increase is an additional blow to the industry that is already feeling the effects of the cost of living crisis.

The timing is really bad. Were heading into the summer season and for this to come at the start of it pushing prices up further makes us an expensive destination for tourists, he said.

If somebody has 20 or 30 to go out on a night, its not going as far as it used to go. Instead of going out two nights in a week, they might now just go out one night in the week and that obviously has a huge impact on our turnover on our bottom lines.

Pubs have been closing, albeit in a slower number, for the last 18 months to two years but this will be another blow to our industry because people might not be able to afford to go out as much as they did so thats a real concern for our industry.

He said the pub industry has become events-driven and that people tend to save for an event such as a match day, birthday, or other celebration.

The discretionary income that people have has shrunk greatly over the last two years and thats what we depend on, people going out and enjoying themselves, and unfortunately they havent had as much of that income to spare over the last two years, so its had a real impact on our businesses.

VFI CEO Pat Crotty said the decision by Diageo is not just disappointing, its a critical hit to an industry on the brink.

"The government must come forward with support measures for the trade as the Increased Cost of Doing Business grant, while welcome, is not an adequate response, he said.

The VFI is calling for further supports to include a reduction in excise, a return to the 9% VAT rate for pubs serving food and a reduction in employers PRSI. Publicans cant be expected to take all these hits without meaningful support.
The State Capitol building in Hartford Ken Dixon/Hearst Connecticut Media

Geoffrey Matesky, of Essex, was is injured in a motor vehicle crash when he was 19, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down.

Over the years, he said hes lived a normal, happy slice of the American dream" thanks to his wheelchair. But when his wheelchair broke on a recent trip to San Francisco, he had to wait nearly three months for a new chair.

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A new piece of legislation, Senate Bill 308, aims to address the issue through a series of initiatives created based on the recommendations from the state-mandated Wheelchair Repair Task Force, which was established last year.

A wheelchair, whether manual or powered, simple or complicated, is unequivocally a basic human right," Matesky said at the public hearing for the new bill. "Without it, that's the end of the whole human life experiment.

In the meeting following the hearing, the Human Services Committee voted to update the bill by removing a violation enforcement reference in section 2, which details specific requirements for wheelchair dealers. After the Legislative Commissioners' Office updates the bill, it will receive a joint-favorable substitute and be moved to the floor for debate.

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Many of the legislators spoke in favor of the bill, but noted its still a work in progress and the updated language is just the first step.

State Rep. William Pizzuto, R-Middlebury, and Rep. Gale Mastrofrancesco, R-Wolcott, voted against moving the bill forward, although both supported what the bill aims to do.

The bill would eliminate the need for new prescriptions to purchase or repair a wheelchair. Itd also provide Medicaid coverage for annual maintenance of a primary wheelchair and a backup wheelchair during a repair visit.

One of the most controversial parts of the proposal was requiring wheelchair dealers to respond by phone to repair requests within one business day, complete repairs within ten calendar days after a request, and maintain a sufficient supply of parts for timely repairs. If violated, the Department of Social Services commissioner could reduce or withhold Medicaid funding.

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Several speakers said the 10 days is not always possible for repairs.

"As we all know, when it comes to complex repairs, there are times when the servicer runs into additional problems or needs additional parts, and this bill would penalize the business if they failed to meet the deadline, Mastrofrancesco said in an interview. The legislation, as written, also does not consider the problems faced by all businesses, including employees who get sick, weather conditions and so many other unforeseen problems, so I think those concerns need to be addressed."

Mastrofrancesco said in the meeting she wants to ensure there are protections for dealers and consumers in place.

Jonathan Sigworth, spokesperson for the Connecticut Wheelchair Reform Coalition, wheelchair user and task force member, said that significant corrections'' were needed to make sure the bill is practical and effective.

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In testimony, he recommended limiting wait times to four business days each for assessment visits and repairs after all paperwork and parts are received. He also recommended requiring dealers to share the estimated repair timeline with the consumer. Other potential changes to the bills were establishing a wheelchair advisory council of community stakeholders, requiring wheelchair dealers to file monthly reports to the state and council and mandating expedited communication and response times for emergency repairs.

Sigworth also included several recommendations from the original taskforce that were left out in the bill, including ensuring wait times for in-shop and at-home assessments or repairs are comparable and timely since most wheelchair users rely on in-home repairs. The average wait time for in-shop assessments is four days, while in-home services have a month-long waitlist, he said.

Sigworth said Medicaid should be provided as needed for repairs to backup wheelchairs, consumer transportation for repairs, and overnight and expedited delivery of wheelchair parts.

Is it a suitable, cost-effective business practice in CT to hold hostage a wheelchair repair for a month, in order to pressure consumers to travel, putting their health and safety at risk, for faster repairs? Sigworth wrote. Prioritizing cost-effectiveness and profit over consumer safety is not acceptable... It will only get worse unless we enforce the necessary protections now.

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Many other wheelchair users and advocates supported Sigworths changes and urged legislators to consider them.

Several wheelchair repair industry representatives and wheelchair users expressed their disapproval of the bill at the hearing, especially regarding the timeline, missing recommendations from the taskforce, and enforcement requirements.

Wayne Grau, executive director of the National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology, spoke against the bill with great regret. As a task force member, Grau said he agreed with most of the recommendations in the final report but was disappointed that some were missing from the bill.

He said the 10-day requirement does not allow shipping time, quality control checks, or administrative time to schedule the appointment with the consumer. Grau added there are no exceptions for issues, such as vehicle breakdowns, staff member sickness or weather.

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Grau said the bill needs to have the recommended advisory group track the legislation's progress and implementation once passed.

Connecticut is leading the way on this issue, and we commend you for taking on this issue. However, we all know that any new legislation will have unintended consequences, Grau said. Before we include penalties for situations where there is no fault but an unintended consequence, we should work once again as a group, track the progress of this legislation, and report back to this committee with the results and any additional recommendations that need to be added.

Bryan Cafferelli, commissioner of the state Department of Consumer Protection, testified that consumers who dont use Medicaid or Medicaid may be left out since the bill explicitly highlights Medicaid payment withholdings as a form of enforcement.

The bill places enforcement on the department through the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act, which prohibits unfair competition and unfair and deceptive acts. He said this process often takes months to process and raised concerns about the departments ability to respond to needs urgently and may not be helpful for a resident in desperate need of a repair.

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Similarly, although appreciative of the intent, Andrea Barton Reeves, Social Services commissioner, said she and the department dont support the bill because it inappropriately broadened DSS scope beyond the administration of the Medicaid program.

She said SB 308 in its current state could require the department to establish certain standards and set regulations around changing prescription and prior authorization requirements, expand Medicaid annual maintenance coverage and enforce penalties for CRT wheelchair providers. DSS would regulate customized wheelchair providers and develop regulations imposing penalties with the Department of Aging and Disability Services.

It is not appropriate for DSS to serve in a regulatory capacity in this context. DSS administers the Medicaid program as a payor and, as such, it is beyond the scope of DSS role, capacity, and expertise, nor is it within DSS funding or staffing to regulate customized wheelchair providers beyond the scope of covering customized wheelchair equipment under Medicaid, she said.

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Reeves added expanding coverage to include annual maintenance and repairs for backup equipment, which DSS currently doesnt reimburse, may result in significant costs.
A 35-YEAR-OLD Cork man has signed a plea of guilty to a charge of having child pornography at his home, back in 2019.

Paul Donnelly, of St Marys Avenue, Dillons Cross, Cork, signed a plea of guilty to having a total of 64 images of child sexual abuse on July 21, 2019.

On the application of Sergeant Aisling Murphy, Judge Mary Dorgan sent the case forward from Cork District Court for sentencing at Cork Circuit Criminal Court in the sessions commencing on April 8.

The accused man was represented in court by defence solicitor Killian McCarthy.
ARMED gardai rushed to an apartment complex in Ballinhassig last Christmas following a report of one resident smashing down the door of another residents home with a hammer.

Paul OCallaghan, aged 41, of An Bruach, Halfway, Ballinhassig, Co Cork, has now appeared at Cork District Court facing a criminal damage charge.

Judge Mary Dorgan accepted jurisdiction to deal with the case after hearing an outline of the alleged evidence against the accused.

Sergeant John Kelleher said: On December 23, 2023, gardai received a call from control of a man breaking down the door of an apartment with a hammer. He went back to his apartment which is on the top floor of the complex.

"Gardai from the Armed Support Unit arrived at the scene, and the accused had to be subdued and handcuffed.

Frank Buttimer, solicitor, represented Paul OCallaghan and said: There will be a plea of guilty to the charge.

On the application of Sergeant John Kelleher, Judge Mary Dorgan put the case back to later in April for a victim impact statement. Judge Dorgan asked how much damage was done to the door of the other person in the apartment complex. Mr Buttimer said the amount of the damage was 400 to 500 and he said that the accused would gather compensation for the owner of the apartment.

The case was adjourned until April 22 at Cork District Court by Judge Mary Dorgan.
FOUR Spanish nationals accused of conspiring to import drugs into Ireland indicated today that they would be applying to be released on High Court bail.

The four men appeared by video link from Cork Prison and their solicitors indicated at Cork District Court that High Court bail applications would be made.

Each man is accused of conspiring with nine others to import drugs.

The charge in each case states, that you (defendants name) on dates between February 27 and March 14, both dates inclusive, within the state, did conspire with one or more persons, namely (nine other names) to do an act in the state that constitutes a serious offence, namely the importation of controlled drugs in excess of 13,000, an offence contrary of Section 15B (1) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 as amended and contrary to Section 71 (1) (a) (4) of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 as amended by Section 4 (b) of the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions ) Act 2023.

Angel Serran Padilla, 39, of Malaga, Spain, and Pedro Padio Ojeda Ortega, 35, of Cadiz, Spain, appeared together from prison and an interpreter in court translated proceedings. Mr Eddie Burke said bail applications would be made at the High Court in Dublin. In the meantime there was consent to a remand in custody until April 10 to allow time for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Judge Mary Dorgan told them that if they secured bail in the High Court they would be obliged to attend Cork District Court in person on the adjourned date.

Raul Garcia Taberes being escorted from Bridewell Garda Station. File image. Picture by Chani Anderson

Frank Buttimer solicitor said his two clients were consenting to a remand in custody until April 16. He said they were making applications for bail at the High Court. Judge Dorgan also told them of their obligations to attend if given bail. These two men  48-year-old Raul Garcia Tabares of Cadiz, Spain, and 41-year-old Anuar Rahui of Malaga, Spain, indicated that they accepted this.

Co-defendants of these four accused have appeared before other courts in County Cork. The appearances followed the arrest of 10 men and the seizure of a jeep, a camper van, articulated truck, and rigid inflatable boat as part of a major investigation earlier this month.
NEUROLOGY patients in Cork are embarking on roundtrips of up to 200km to see their neurologists, according to the Neurological Alliance of Ireland (NAI).

NAI and Roche Products (Ireland) Ltd recently launched their The Patient Deserves Better campaign, seeking commitments from elected representatives and the HSE to provide outpatient consultant neurology services at Bantry General Hospital (BGH) to shorten the journeys for patients receiving treatment.

Bantry General Hospital currently provides some clinics for neurological patients but the NAI is calling for the service to be protected by appointing a consultant neurologist at the hospital.

Speakers at the online launch last Tuesday included patient representative Ruth OBrien from Glengarriff; the executive director of Neurological Alliance of Ireland Magdalen Rogers; and consultant neurologist at Cork University Hospital (CUH) Professor Aisling Ryan.

Describing her experience, patient representative Ruth OBrien, who is living with multiple sclerosis, travels every six months to CUH for her infusions which she said requires a full day of annual leave from work as the treatment itself takes five hours on top of a 90-minute drive each way.

If I was able to attend an outpatient neurology clinic in Bantry General Hospital this would greatly reduce the amount of time I spend travelling, she said.

With my MS, one of my symptoms is fatigue and the trip to CUH has a huge impact on my wellbeing in the days and weeks following the journey.

NAI executive director Magdalen Rogers called on elected representatives in Cork and the HSE to commit to delivering these services.

Access to a consultant neurologist should not depend on where you live, yet people with chronic long-term neurological conditions are regularly travelling between 60km to 112km to see their neurologist, she said.
A PASSENGER on the train from Cobh to Cork was headbutted and punched, suffered a broken nose, and had some teeth broken.

Today, the assailant was given a three-month suspended sentence.

Judge Philip OLeary said at Cork District Court: It is a serious matter. He did serious damage to the injured party. The judge proceeded to impose a three-month sentence suspended on condition that Kyle Downey, 28, of Corrib Lawn, Mayfield, Cork, and now living in Scotland, would be of good behaviour for the next 12 months.

Inspector James Hallahan outlined the background to the charges that included assault causing harm on March 30, 2023 and being drunk and a danger on the train on that date.

The defendant headbutted and punched the injured party on the Cobh train to Cork and the injured party had a suspected broken nose and head injury.

It is alleged he had a laceration to his lip, a laceration to his left forehead also, and had some loose teeth and broken teeth and had bleeding to his lower lip, Insp Hallahan said.

Judge OLeary noted that there was also a criminal damage charge  to which Mr Downey pleaded guilty  where the charge stated that he did without lawful excuse damage property by smearing blood on cell walls at Mayfield Garda Station between March 30 and 31, following his arrest for the assault.

Defence barrister, William Bulman, said the defendant had given up alcohol since this occurred and was working as a chef in a Scottish hotel. He said Mr Downey was living in this very remote area and not coming into contact with anyone beyond his work setting.

The barrister said that the background to the incident at the centre of the case was that defendant had an issue with the injured party in relation to the quality of work he had done for another party.
I KNOW what I want for my next birthday, I said.

They gaped at me. (My birthday is months away.)

A one-way ticket to Finland.

Eh? they said.

Believe me, I declared, Id go in a heartbeat.

This cascade of longing was inspired by nothing more than the comment of a woman living in Finland.

She was responding to the announcement that this remote country, a third of which lies above the Arctic Circle, had earned the title of happiest country in the world in the 2024 World Happiness Report.

This is no flash in the pan by the way - 2024 is the seventh year in a row that Finland has earned that accolade.

And what did the woman say that resulted in such longing in me?

She said that she could walk home in safety at any hour of the day or night.

So:

None of the aggression, shouting, fighting or drug use on the streets or public transport that leaves decent passers-by and passengers in this country so nervous they want to curl up and hide?

No menacing gangs of dead-eyed hoodie youths loitering on street corners?

Nobody on e-cycles or bicycles terrorising footpath users?

Nobody following you home or breaking into your apartment and raping you?

No road rage? No speeding? No crazy traffic behaviour? No wannabe rally drivers screaming up and down outside your house night and day?

Are the Finnish traffic police actually allowed outside to do their job properly? Every day of the week and not just bank holidays?

No scumbags in balaclavas screaming up and down the streets of your neighbourhood on motorbikes, as is happening in an inner-city Dublin neighbourhood.

The gardai reportedly explained to frightened locals that nothing could be done about this because (a) the scumbags havent actually assaulted anybody yet, and (b) if the gardai put on the blue light and chased the scumbags out of the area, and the scumbags crashed into a lamp-post and knocked themselves out, the gardai could actually be prosecuted for trying to protect the local residents from the scumbags who were terrorising them.

Just look at the excoriatingly stressful and unjustifiable ordeal endured by the garda sergeant who kindly helped out an oul fella during the pandemic by loaning him a 50 unclaimed bike from the Garda Property and Exhibits Management System to allow the pensioner to get out and exercise.

First, the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation raided his house.

Then he was suspended for three years.

Lets continue with that list of things not happening in Finland.

Nobody attacking you on the street out of the blue only because you just happen to be there and they happen to be out of their minds on drink or on a screaming high from the drugs that are flowing freely through our unprotected coasts (because the navy is totally on its uppers).

Say, what? Not in Finland? NO? Really?

Then theres the Finnish health service with wait-times that are the envy of the known world (and that, apparently, was the case even during the worst years of the pandemic).

Theres the overall situation of better housing and lower homelessness levels.

And theres that incredible steel-strong social safety net.

In Finland, apparently, theres a social welfare system where youre looked after, whether you are Finnish or a recent arrival, and even if you have worked ALL your life and paid your taxes before encountering some horrendous, life-altering bump in the road.

Even if youre Finnish and HAVE BEEN SELF-EMPLOYED?

Can this be true?

Theres great respect at government level for the Finnish countryside there too.

Seriously? No denatured, decapitated hedgerows?

No destruction of natural, indigenous wild flowers and plants?

No litter and rubbish being dumped everywhere?

No foam-covered polluted rivers or black-garbage-bags dumped in laneways, forests or streams?

Finland has a government that is environmentally conscious (and not in a way that intimidates and harasses farmers and chases their children off the land into accountancy jobs to such an extent that the number of domestic family farms is dropping faster than green grass through a goose).

The country does this in a way which prioritises the best attributes of a healthy rural lifestyle, and has resulted in Finland being seen as one of the best countries in the world for Green Living.

Forests are always nearby and accessible. There are more than 40 national parks full of hiking routes, nature trails and campfire sites. Anyone can pick berries, collect mushrooms or fish with a rod.

In Finland, your kids automatically get to attend their nearest school.

Importantly, they are taught that it is good and proper to be kind and considerate to others, not brought up to act like spoiled, screen-addicted, vampire-pale, pint-sized emperors to whose every whim the world must kow-tow.

Education there, by the way, is free from before primary school right through to college.

There is a Finnish proverb. Onnellisuus on se paikka puuttuvaisuuden ja yltakyllaisyyden valilla, which means happiness is a place between too little and too much. Hmm.

Contentedness, really.

OMG.

Packing my bags now.
TRAVEL with your kids to the Rebel Countys most iconic landmarks in Noahs Cork Adventures, a new childrens book written by Cork mum Nadine Hughes Campbell.

Nadine, who is originally from Canada, moved to Leeside six years ago. She had received a one-year job contract in Dublin, but after falling in love with a Corkman, two children and a dog later, she is now proud to call Cork home.

Noahs Cork Adventures is written through the eyes of her son, Noah, as he explores the real capital. On his adventures, he wanders around some of Corks most loved locations. He holds on for dear life at the Shakey Bridge, samples the famous English Market, and soaks in Cobhs sea air.

Noah and travel are two of Nadines passions in life, and she was delighted to be able to bring them together in her first piece of published work.

The process was long and to say there was a slight learning curve is an understatement, she admitted.

While writing the book, Nadine gave birth to her daughter so had to put it on hold for a while.

The entire process took just under two years, and I was naive to think that you just wrote a story and printed it.

So much went into it and a lot of mistakes were made and overcome, but the amount of knowledge I gained is invaluable to me now.

She hired an editor who works on childrens books to help her navigate re-works and many iterations.

Nadine Hughes Campbell and her son Noah.

Aside from creating the book, I had to wear a variety of hats, including sales, marketing, administration, bookkeeping, and more, but Im enjoying it all! she said.

One of the storys cutest features is that it is a rhyming book, and this wasnt accidental, author Nadine revealed.

I love rhyme books, rhyme books are amazing for little ones. The sing song of a rhyme book is great in aiding with memory and cognitive development, literacy development, and it drives speech and language.

I knew when I started this book, I wanted to have it rhyme.

The rhyming was challenging, but so rewarding once I got my head around it and the meter of my story, and it was so touching that night that my son recited a few pages of the book back to me because of the rhyme.

The book is beautifully illustrated by Polina, a Ukrainian artist Nadine found on a peer-to-peer writer and illustrator website.

I spent a long time looking for the perfect illustrator, and when I discovered her work, I knew she was the one! It was wonderful to have someone with zero knowledge of the city, to have a completely blank canvas. To be able to describe places and things with such detail to her was so nice as I felt like I was experiencing Cork from new eyes all over again, and to watch it come to life on the pages was beautiful

Nadine Hughes Campbell.

Noahs Cork Adventure is the first in a series and Nadine is already looking forward to the storys next instalment. Readers will be able to travel with Noah as he ventures around Ireland and abroad.

Were off to the vibrant city of Berlin next! Nadine revealed.

Travel possesses many benefits to children, it creates play and travel based learning, boosts creativity and imagination, it instils adaptability and fosters problem-solving.

Nadine mentioned a study commissioned by the U.S Travel Association, which showed that adults who travelled regularly as children had above average grades, higher educational achievements, and higher than average income by 12%.

Travel doesnt have to be extravagant, and this Nadine highlights in Noahs Cork Adventure.

She understands that travelling comes with a cost and not all parents have the ability or means to travel with their children.

I experienced this first hand as my parents didnt have the means during my childhood, but Im so grateful for their sacrifices in order to allow me to be in a position to do this for my son.

So, to those children who cant get on a flight just yet, I want them to come along for the journey and travel the world and go from county to county in the series of Noahs Adventures.

The hope is that one day, theyll be able to visit these places in real life and create an adventure of their own.

Copies of Noahs Cork Adventure can be picked up in Vibes & Scribes, Nano Nagle Place, Some Dose, Quay Co-op Key Books, Lowercase bookshop at UCC, Carrigaline Bookshop and on Amazon and from noahsadventures.ie
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.

Aruba has drafted a constitutional amendment that would make it the second country in the world to recognize that nature has inherent rights. The amendment also affirms that people are entitled to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, reported Inside Climate News.

The draft bill was announced by the countrys nature minister Ursell Arends earlier this month. It would require the government to take preventive measures to protect against the negative consequences of climate change.

If the amendment is approved, Aruba will be the second nation in the world after Ecuador to recognize the rights of nature in its constitution. About 30 countries  including Uganda, Bolivia and Spain  have recognized the inherent rights of particular species or ecosystems.

The public will be able to submit written comments through April 4, after which time the draft of the bill will be sent to the countrys advisory council. The government will have the opportunity to revise it before a final version is sent to the legislature, where it must be approved by a two-thirds majority.

If the amendment passes, it will be the first time Aruba has altered its constitution since 1986.

By incorporating the Rights of Nature, possibly within Arubas Constitution, it provides every citizen with the legal [basis] to be a voice for nature. Rights of Nature can become an environmental justice tool for communities unduly impacted by unsustainable practices and its cumulative impact on nature as well as the general wellbeing of local inhabitants, the United Nations said. If successful, the constitution will reflect changing social mores in the increased protection of the local environment.

Arends expressed hope that a final bill will be drafted by this summer, Inside Climate News reported.

Everyone in Aruba is aware of the magnitude of environmental destruction that has taken place and the importance of nature to our economy and island, Arends said.

Two million tourists visiting Arubas white sand beaches and coastal ecosystems annually make up a large part of the countrys $4 billion economy.

Plastic pollution, overfishing and waste generated in great part by visitors are some of the environmental impacts facing the small island nation. Aruba is also experiencing increasing sea level rise, coastal erosion and ocean acidification due to climate change.

The ecosystems in Aruba that we rely on are degraded to such an extent that they cant function like they used to, Arends said, as reported by Inside Climate News.

An Explanatory Memorandum to the draft amendment said the legislation strives for a higher and more broad level of protection than laws like the countrys Nature Conservation Regulation, which protects individual species.

In an ecosystem everything is connected, the memorandum states, as Inside Climate News reported. Protection at the system level is necessary because it takes into account the interrelationships between species and their abiotic environment.

Humans have the right to an environment that is clean, healthy and sustainable, according to the memorandum, which depends upon healthy ecosystems as well. The memorandum referred to the recognition of the right by the United Nations General Assembly in July of 2022.

The right of humans to a healthy environment is now reflected in laws passed by more than 150 countries, and is being used more and more in litigation to force governments to address climate change.

Arubas constitutional amendment would also require that the government periodically look at the state of the environment and issue reports every five years.

I want to thank all those who have worked tirelessly to protect our environment, Arends said previously, as reported by Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature. Together, we can restore the balance between people and Nature, and [take] care of what belongs to us. We are not giving any rights to Nature. Nature has rights. This is a first step toward acknowledging that.
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.

French President Emmanuel Macron visits the Amazon for the first time in Belem, Brazil on March 26, 2024. Macron met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and indigenous leaders. Filipe Bispo / Anadolu via Getty Images

French President Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva met this week in Belem  host of the 2025 United Nations COP30 climate talks. The leaders agreed to launch a $1.1 billion green investment plan for the Amazon rainforest.

The four-year plan would be financed by public and private funds.

Gathered in Belem, in the heart of the Amazon, we, Brazil and France, Amazonian countries, have decided to join forces to promote an international roadmap for protection of tropical forests, the countries said in a joint statement, as Reuters reported. The presidents expressed their commitment to the conservation, restoration and sustainable management of the worlds tropical forests and agreed to work on an ambitious agenda, including developing innovative financial instruments, market mechanisms and payments for environmental services.

During the three-day visit, Lula and Macron met with Indigenous leaders and Macron honored the Kayapo People and environmental activist Raoni Metuktire  who has fought to protect Indigenous rights and the Amazon rainforest  with Frances National Order of the Legion of Honor.

Raoni requested that Lula not approve the building of a 620-mile planned railroad because of the impact it will have on the Indigenous People, who Raoni said were not consulted.

The announcement of the investment agreement said it included support for indigenous people and local Amazon communities, which have an essential role in protecting biodiversity through their traditional knowledge and forest management practices, reported Le Monde.

As president of the Group of 20 nations, Brazil is an advocate for emerging economies that Paris is looking to build relationships with.

We are living in a Franco-Brazilian moment, said the Elysee Palace of the French president, which highlighted many points of convergence with Brazil on major global issues, as France 24 reported.

France is an essential, unavoidable actor for Brazilian foreign policy, said Maria Luisa Escorel de Moraes, the head of Europes Brazilian diplomacy.

Announcement of the investment plan includes the proposal of a carbon market intended to reward investments by nations in natural carbon sinks like the Amazon rainforest.

Last year, Brazilian Amazon deforestation was cut in half following environmental law enforcement implemented by Lulas government.

After a low point in Brazil-France relations concerning the environment in 2019, things have improved.

After a four-year eclipse and a virtual freeze in political relations between our two countries during Bolsonaros presidency, we are in the process of relaunching the bilateral relationship and the strategic partnership with Brazil, an adviser to the French president said, as reported by Reuters.
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.

The UNs latest Food Waste Index Report, compiled in collaboration with the charity WRAP, reveals that food waste has skyrocketed, with over 1 billion meals wasted per day and over $1 trillion worth of food waste generated per year around the world.

The report found that 783 million people lived with hunger in 2022, and about one-third of the global population faced food insecurity.

Food waste is a global tragedy. Millions will go hungry today as food is wasted across the world, Inger Andersen, executive director of UNEP, said in a press release. Not only is this a major development issue, but the impacts of such unnecessary waste are causing substantial costs to the climate and nature.

In total, about 1.05 billion metric tons of food waste, both edible and inedible parts, were generated in 2022, according to the report. This makes up nearly 20% of available food. Further, the report found that food waste reached 132 kilograms per capita, with most food waste (60%) happening in households, followed by 28% of food waste happening in food services and 12% in the retail sector.

The UNs Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 aims to cut food waste in half by 2030, as this waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. According to the UN, food waste makes up about 8% to 10% of global emissions. This is even higher than the aviation industry, which contributed about 2% of global carbon emissions in 2022, as reported by the International Energy Agency.

The report noted that the EU, Australia, Japan, UK and the U.S. are the only G20 countries with adequate food waste estimates for tracking progress to the 2030 goal of cutting food waste by 50%. The report authors said they hope other countries will utilize the report to improve food waste tracking in order to work toward reducing the numbers.

Some countries are already making meaningful progress on food waste reduction targets, with Japan reducing food waste by 31% and the UK by 18%.

The good news is we know if countries prioritise this issue, they can significantly reverse food loss and waste, reduce climate impacts and economic losses, and accelerate progress on global goals, Andersen said.

The authors of the report recommended a collaborative approach to address food waste and food insecurity, including through public-private partnerships, which have already helped reduce food waste per capita in Australia, Indonesia, Mexico, South Africa and the UK.

With the huge cost to the environment, society, and global economies caused by food waste, we need greater coordinated action across continents and supply chains. We support UNEP in calling for more G20 countries to measure food waste and work towards SDG12.3, said Harriet Lamb, CEO of WRAP. This is critical to ensuring food feeds people, not landfills. Public-Private Partnerships are one key tool delivering results today, but they require support: whether philanthropic, business, or governmental, actors must rally behind programmes addressing the enormous impact wasting food has on food security, our climate, and our wallets.
The Big Rapids American Legion Post 98, and AMVETS Honor Guard Rifle Team will honor National Vietnam War Veterans Day with a celebration at a local memorial at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 30, at Holland Park Veterans & Homefront Heroes Memorial. (File photo) Pioneer photo/Olivia Fellows

BIG RAPIDS  The Big Rapids American Legion Post 98 will honor National Vietnam War Veterans Day with a celebration at a local memorial.

Join local veterans in recognizing these Vietnam veterans with the presentation of honors at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 30, at Holland Park Veterans & Homefront Heroes Memorial at West Spruce Street in Big Rapids.

The event will incorporate the joint American Legion Post 98 and AMVETS Honor Guard Rifle Team who will conduct an honorary rifle salute.

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Immediately following the honors presentation, starting at noon, the AMVET Post 1941, 320 S. Fourth Ave. in Big Rapids, will host a free luncheon in observance of the national day. All veterans and their families are welcome. Mementos commemorating their service will be offered to Vietnam Veterans in a free raffle.

On March 28, 2017, then President Donald Trump signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act which officially recognized March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. The Act also included the day on which the United States flag should especially be displayed.

The date of March 29 was chosen as National Vietnam War Veterans Day because on March 29, 1973, Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) was disbanded and the last U.S. combat troops departed the Republic of Vietnam. This year is the 51st anniversary of the last combat troops boots on the ground in Vietnam.

American Legion Post 98 Commander Mark Brejcha said remembering to honor veterans of past decades is an important act.

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Thanks to many veterans groups who petitioned their elected officials, March 29 is now set aside to recognize and honor all who served in uniform during that designated period (of) Nov. 1, 1955 to April 30, 1975; regardless of whether they had boots on the ground in Vietnam or not, Brejcha said.

In 2023, the average age of a Vietnam War Veteran was around 76 years old. Of the 2,709,918 Americans who physically served in the Vietnam theater of operation, less than 850,000 (31%) are estimated to be alive today. Nearly 9 million Americans served during the Vietnam War Era, and as of the 2020 Census, they are the largest cohort of veterans in America, with an estimated 6.4 million living vets.

When you see a Vietnam veteran, walk up to him or her and say, Thank you for your service and welcome home, Brejcha said. On behalf of the Big Rapids AMVETS and American Legion, (we say) welcome home.




US House hearing scrutinised China's alleged impact on US agriculture

The US House Agriculture Committee held a hearing on March 20 to discuss the threats China poses to US agriculture.

The issue has gained political prominence over the past several years and is poised to be a main campaign issue in the 2024 elections.

Opening the hearing, Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn Thompson, said: "The People's Republic of China, governed by the Chinese Communist Party, has gone out of its way to reduce its reliance on American agriculture, all the while aggressively pursuing tactics that threaten our nation's ability to feed itself. These last few years have seen China steal US intellectual property, hack critical cybersecurity and related infrastructure, weaponise agricultural trade and acquire American farmland at an alarming rate. Each of these disrupt our national security, our rural communities and our resiliency."

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem testified at the hearing and described efforts by Chinese nationals last summer to tour farms in her state. The State Department later informed Noem that the individuals were spies looking to steal crop genetics and intellectual property.

Bipartisan members of the Committee expressed concern over China's actions purchasing farmland, especially close to sensitive military installations, and vowed to take further steps to combat Chinese investment in these areas.

In another development, nearly half of the Republican members of the Senate recently sent a letter to US President Joe Biden's administration to voice concern for the lack of trade opportunities for US agricultural exports.

The senators highlighted the US$17 billion decline in agriculture exports in the previous fiscal year and the forecast of another US$8 billion drop this year.

"[W]e urge the Biden administration to immediately take action to improve the competitiveness of US agricultural products abroad and reverse this trend," they wrote. "We expect trade to fluctuate in response to macroeconomic factors and market conditions. However, the current sharp decline in US agricultural exports is directly attributable to and exacerbated by an unambitious US trade strategy that is failing to meaningfully expand market access or reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade."

The group requested that US Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack identify specific actions they intend to take to increase agricultural exports. They also asked the officials whether the Biden administration intends to pursue new or improved free trade agreements in 2024 to expand market access.



- National Hog Farmer
Planes taking off and landing at Roben-Hood Airport in Big Rapids will have less interference from wildlife as the city constructs a fence around the area. (Pioneer file photo). Pioneer photos/Cathie Crew

BIG RAPIDS  Planes taking off and landing and wildlife on the runway do not mix, and the Big Rapids city commission is taking steps to prevent the situation from occurring.

During its meeting March 18, the board accepted a bid from Straight-Line Fencing to construct a 10-foot fence around the operational areas of the Roben-Hood Airport at a cost of $251,642.

Director of Public Works Heather Bowman told the board in a position paper that aircraft are most vulnerable to rapid changes in conditions during takeoff and landing maneuvers, and wildlife on the runways is a huge risk during such operations.

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There have been several attempts to lower the risk of wildlife interfering with aircraft at the airport, Bowman said, including changing the farming practices to only grasses, which is less favorable to deer, contracting with the U.S. Department of Agriculture as consultants to give recommendations on wildlife control and annual deer culls through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

The overall recommendation was to construct a 10-foot tall fence around all operations areas, she said. This would lead to increased safety for the aviation community.

Utility Supply Company of Reed City, which uses the airport facility, has expressed concerns about the deer risk on and near the runway, Bowman said.

Big Rapids Mayor Fred Guenther said USC is a large airport user and has had to dodge deer many times. Because of that, they approached the airport personnel saying they are willing to fund the fencing project in its entirety with the city paying them back over five years.

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Users like USC use the airport at all hours  and it really is a problem, city manager Mark Gifford said. The airport is surrounded by habitats that have deer and turkeys and all sorts of things that can wander onto the runway. Having a fence is something we have wanted to do for a long time but havent had the funds to do it, so a no-interest loan to the city is as good a deal as I can think of and we are very grateful for the offer.

Straight Line Fencing was the low bidder at $251,000. Dividing that by five is just over $50,000 a year, he added.

In addition to the vote to accept the bid from Straight-Line Fencing, the board approved an installment purchase agreement with USC for the financing in accordance with Public Act 99.

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According to the agreement, USC agrees to finance the cost of the fencing for a term of five years with an annual payment from the city and without interest.
Google just announced that its expanding its recently-launched Circle to Search tool to include language translation , as part of an update to various core services. Circle to Search, as the name suggests, already lets some Android users research stuff by drawing a circle around an object.

The forthcoming language translation component wont even require a drawn circle. Google says people will just have to long press the home button or the navigation bar and look for the translate icon. Itll do the rest. The company showed the tech quickly translating an entire menu with one long press. Google Translate can already do this, though in a slightly different way, but this update means users wont have to pop out of one app and into another just to check on something.

The translation tool begins rolling out in the coming weeks, though only to Android devices that can run Circle to Search . This list currently includes Pixel 7 devices, Pixel 8 devices and the Samsung Galaxy S24 series, though Google says it's coming to more phones and tablets this week, including some foldables.

Google Maps is also getting a refresh , with an emphasis on AI. When you pull up a place on Maps, like a restaurant, artificial intelligence will display a summary that describes unique points of interest and what people love about the business. The AI will also analyze photos of food and identify what the dish is called, in addition to the cost and whether it's vegetarian or vegan. The company hopes this will make it easier to make reservations and book trips.

Google

On the non-AI side of things, Maps is getting an updated lists feature in select cities throughout the US and Canada. This will aggregate lists of must-visit destinations pulled from members of the community and local publishers. There will be tools to customize these lists as you see fit.

These will be joined by lists created by Google and its algorithm, including a weekly trending list to discover the latest hot spots and something called Gems that chronicles under-the-radar spots. All of these Maps updates are coming to both Android and iOS devices later this month.
The investigation is yet another source of pressure for the company as it tries to secure its future in the US.

TikTok, already fighting a proposed law that could lead to a ban of the app in the United States, may soon also find itself in the crosshairs of the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC is close to wrapping up a multiyear investigation into the company, which could result in a lawsuit or major fine, Politico reports .

The investigation is reportedly centered around the apps privacy and security practices, including its handling of childrens user data. According to Politico, the FTC is looking into potential violations of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), as well as allegations that the company misled its users by stating falsely that individuals in China do not have access to U.S. user data. TikTok could also be penalized for violating the terms of its 2019 settlement with regulators over data privacy.

While its not clear if the FTCs investigation will result in a lawsuit or other action, the investigation is yet another source of pressure for the company as it tries to secure its future in its largest market.. After a quick passage in the House, the Senate is considering a bill that would force TikToks parent company, ByteDance, to sell the app or face an outright ban in the US. The Biden Administration, which has also tried to pressure ByteDance to divest TikTok, is backing the measure and US intelligence officials have briefed lawmakers on the alleged national security risks posed by the app.

TikTok didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.
The Big Rapids Township board of trustees approved a contract with Chris Elder for assessing services through 2025. Pioneer file photo

BIG RAPIDS TOWNSHIP  The Big Rapids Township board of trustees recently approved a contract for assessor services with Chris Elder through 2025.

Current township assessor David Kerwin notified the board that he would not be renewing his contract with the township.

We brought Chris on knowing that would be the case, Supervisor Carman Bean said during the March 5 board meeting. We have been getting nothing but compliments about Chris and his ability to do the job. The equalization department has told me how happy they are with him, and Shila (Kiander, director) expressed her thanks for having someone there that is so responsive.

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Last year, when Kerwin submitted his contract for renewal, he included bringing Elder on as an assistant assessor, splitting his costs with Elder, with the idea that he would be ready to take over the assessor's position at the time of Kerwins retirement.

Elder will be in the township offices every other Friday and will be available by appointment. He is also available by phone and email and will make arrangements to come in and meet with residents on an as-needed basis, Bean said.

He has been very responsive to calls and emails, and will continue to be, he said.

The contract sets an annual salary of $34,930.50 to be paid out monthly at the rate of $2,910.70. Term of the contract is from April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025.

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In other business, the board approved hiring Lonny Lanway for the part-time grounds maintenance position.

Everyone else left last year, so we are looking to fill in that half-time position, Bean said. Mark (Veldman, grounds supervisor) will be working on that as well as doing a little training with planning and zoning.

Planning and zoning administrator Tim Kleinheksel has given notice he will retire at the end of the year, Bean said.

Mark has expressed an interest, and we are going to see how it works out and go from there, he said. He is going to fill in while Tim is on vacation so he gets some exposure to it and gets some training from MTA (Michigan Township Association) to understand a little more about planning and zoning.

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He said Lanway would be a candidate for Veldmans replacement once he moves into the planning and zoning position.

We will have to see how it works out with him coming in part-time, Bean said. I would like to make sure we have continuity in planning and zoning. I think we need to have a plan of succession, and I think Mark can fill that role for us. We already know him and know he does a good job.

Veldman interviewed Lanway and recommended him for the grounds position, Bean said, and that is why it was brought to the board for approval.

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If it does work out and he is the right guy, he might be able to be the full-time grounds person eventually, he said.
The torture devices used by YouTuber Ruby Franke and her family therapist, Jodi Hildebrandt, on the momfluencer's children have been revealed in newly released crime scene photos and footage.

As seen in the photos and video obtained by People and Law & Crime, police recovered rope, handcuffs and a bowl of cayenne pepper paste from Hildebrandt's home in Ivins, Utah, after Franke's 12-year-old son escaped on Aug. 30, 2023, and reported to authorities the abuse he suffered at the residence for months.

Many of the items, which served as evidence supporting the boy's story, were found in what authorities called a "panic room" in Hildebrandt's home.

RELATED: Famous Ex-YouTuber Pleads Guilty To Child Abuse After 'Emaciated' Son Escapes Home

Franke and Hildebrandt each pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse in December last year.

The mother of six and her family therapist were each sentenced to four terms of one to 15 years in prison last month.

Franke and Hildebrandt were arrested on Aug. 31, 2023, after the YouTuber's son, referred to as RF in court documents, climbed out of a window in Hildebrandt's home and ran to a neighbor's house, asking for help.

One neighbor who responded to the boy's plea asked him to take a seat on his front porch and called 911, as seen in the footage released by Utah prosecutors.

RF -- who was described by the neighbor as "emaciated" and had duct tape on open wounds -- was given water and a banana by the man's wife.

RELATED: YouTube Vlogger Ruby Franke Sentenced Up To 60 Years In Prison For Child Abuse

After police were called, the boy asked them to search for his younger sister, then 9, inside Hildebrandt's house.

Crime scene photos showed the girl sitting on the floor inside the closet where police found her. The child was also malnourished and had a shaved head.

Other photos showed the rope, surgical sponges, elastic bandages and the bowl filled with a paste made of cayenne pepper and honey that officers recovered from the residence.

In the so-called panic room, police saw a Murphy bed, toilet, microwave, empty fridge and freezer set and rope tied to thick metal chains linked to a set of handcuffs.

RF told officers that his mother and Hildebrandt used the paste to dress the injuries he sustained when his wrists and ankles were bound using handcuffs and ropes.

In her plea agreement, Franke detailed the abuse she and Hildebrant inflicted on RF from May to August 2023, including forcing him to do hours of physical tasks and outdoor work, denying him food and water, and punishing him when he secretly drank water, CBS News reported.

The social media personality also confessed to other instances of torture, such as holding her son's head underwater and kicking him in the head while wearing boots.

In addition, Franke admitted in the plea agreement that they isolated her son without giving him access to any books, notebooks, or electronics.

The boy's hands and feet were also regularly bound, sometimes with handcuffs, after he tried to escape in July 2023.

Franke said her daughter was also forced to work outside without food and water and run on dirt roads barefoot, causing her feet to be "repeatedly injured."

Franke said she tried to convince both her son and daughter that they were "evil and possessed" and that the punishments were "necessary" for them to repent.

The children were also told that the torture they endured was "acts of love," according to the plea agreement.




Brand new beamline ID14 has just welcomed its first users, who investigate osmium as a potential anticancer compound using Nuclear Forward Scattering (NFS).

Osmium compounds in different oxidation states are currently being explored for their potential as anticancer agents due to their unique chemical properties. Vladimir Arion, a professor at the University of Vienna and Gabriel Buechel, who worked in Vienna on these compounds, have come to the new ID14 to study osmium in different oxidation states using NFS spectra to extract from them the Mossbauer parameters.

Mossbauer spectroscopy is a valuable tool for studying metal complexes, enabling researchers to elucidate their electronic and magnetic properties, which is crucial for understanding their chemical behavior and potential applications.

As users of the former ID18, we are very excited about this new beamline, where we are trying to benchmark osmium, by extracting Mossbauer parameters from NFS spectra and use these data for speciation of osmium complexes with anticancer potential in biological tissues, explains Arion.

He adds: Even though conventional 189Os Mossbauer spectroscopy has been applied for a series of osmium compounds in different oxidation states, the short half-life of the radioactive source, 189Ir, is only 13.3 days. This makes such studies for a broader research community inconvenient from practical point of view. In the case of 187Os, suitable radioactive sources are missing. The use of ID14 beamline facilities is an excellent option under such circumstances. I do not know other beamlines where investigation of 187Os compounds can be performed.

Aleksandr Chumakov, scientist in charge of the new beamline, explains its transition from ID18 to ID14: The aim of this upgrade is to pursue spectroscopies with extreme spatial resolution of around ~150 nm and studies of atomic dynamics with extreme energy resolution (~50 eV). In this respect, the beamline is now equipped with two new instruments, a nanoscope and spectrograph".

Attracting ERC research

ESRF scientist and ERC grantee Ilya Kupenko will also be using the new ID14 beamline extensively for his research on light elements of the Earth core.

Kupenko will study the sound velocities and plastic deformation mechanisms of candidate iron alloys and compounds in situ at extreme pressure-temperature conditions using a combination of state-of-the-art synchrotron X-ray techniques almost exclusively at the ESRF.

ID14 will be an indispensable tool in his research: "The improved thermal stability of the optics hutches makes it possible to collect data uninterrupted over several hours, which is indispensable for high-temperature laser heating experiments. At the same time, the ultimate focusing capabilities of the Nanoscope facility will enable the study of the submicron samples, suitable for investigation at pressures of several Megabars, equal or higher to the pressures at the very center of the Earth."
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W

ith recently appointed principal Hanna Harilainen, Kelloseppakoulu, the renowned Finnish School of Watchmaking, located in Espoo, west of Helsinki, is back on track. Seemingly her applied science and business background, in combination with a huge team effort, was needed: after more than a decade with the axe of imminent closure hanging over the schools head, the economics are now secured for the foreseeable future.

The amount of teaching makes our school stand out, said Ms. Harilainen, who took on the position in August 2022. In vocational education the number of scheduled hours is normally quite low. But here we have 34 hours per week, and students often stay after hours working on their projects, she continued.

After more than a decade with the axe of imminent closure hanging over the schools head, the economics are now secured for the foreseeable future.

Some ingredients that brought the school back from red numbers are the securing of long-term government and EU grants, and the introductions of a degree program for store people and shorter courses for other commercial clients.

Tiina Virtanen looks forward to a career in the watchmaking industry.

Said Ms. Harilainen: Apart from that, we have done like in any organisation: Optimising, cutting costs, outsourcing. We can also share some teachers between courses and institutions. And we are seeking more collaboration with companies. But it is extremely important that the quality must remain. For instance, Switzerland needs 4,000 staff in watchmaking, and our students must have that level of quality required. Steady hands are also demanded by other industries, for instance in quantum physics, space, and medicine.

A country like Switzerland needs 4,000 staff in watchmaking, and our students must have that level of quality required.

Thus, highly qualified teachers are essential. On Europa Stars visit in January, Smuige Saikku, 1988 alumnus of Kelloseppakoulu, who returned to his native Finland after 16 years in Switzerland working for Renaud et Papi, Christophe Claret, Ulysse Nardin, and Greubel Forsey, was leading a workshop where each of the 15 students was disassembling and reassembling 3035 Rolex movements. Our students also work with the Rolex GMT, Omega movements, IWC and other products, and they also do service for some clients, said Mr. Saikku.

The big difference with Wostep (ed. note: read here) is that we also work with clocks here at Kelloseppakoulu, at Wostep they only work with small watches. And our students spend the first six months making tools before they even touch a watch, continued the goateed master watchmaker who has also studied at Wostep and taught at other watchmaking schools.

Jutta Berggren likes the individual approach of Kelloseppakoulu.

The students can choose between watchmaking and micromechanics  and normally the division is 50/50, with around 15 students in each class. The first year focuses on clocks, the second on pocket watches, and the third on watches.

The watchmakers final project is to finish a movement with bevelling, mirror polishing, perlage, and Geneva stripes. They also fit a raw hairspring before fitting it into a readymade case. We do not just change parts  we solve problems, we do all the testing et cetera, said third-year student Jatta Berggren.

We do not just change parts  we solve problems.

Heikki Eerola dreams of a future in Switzerland.

I came here because I am always looking for infinite potential of growth. There is always something new in watchmaking, added Heikki Eerola (who dreams of a future in Switzerland) during a break, before he put the loupe back over his eye to continue the challenging task of fitting a collet and a stud onto a hairspring.

To make sure all students have the right motivation for a professional future, they must be interviewed, tested for manual skills, and take a psychological test before starting the first year. Every student is seen  as a person, both strong points and weak points. And we are guided to make the most of our capabilities, said Jatta Berggren.

Hairspring to be fitted on Heikki Eerolas graduation project.

The micromechanics students final project is to design and produce a case from scratch, and seemingly the next generation of casemakers are no strangers to experimental use of materials like Fatcarbon, aluminium and silver.

Almost all students are Finnish, and Kelloseppakoulus tuition is predominantly in Finnish. But over the years they have had several foreign students from around the world. We can also provide courses in English, said Ms. Harilainen, adding: We offer customized course packages for companies who wish to train their newly recruited staff to have the same skill level as our highly regarded graduates.

I am really proud of our students  they are motivated and skilled persons, said Mr. Saikku.

This education gives them a strong foundation  and our goal is that our students should have the steadiest hands in the world, added Ms. Harilainen  who also reached out a hand to the watch industry: We welcome more collaborations  both in general and for the September 12 celebrations of our 80th anniversary.
UPDATE:

"I certainly understand. I drive 10th Avenue South by myself and I understand that that those needs are out there and we are working on those needs," said Jim Wingerter, the Great Falls District Administrator for the Montana Department of Transportation.

There is a glimpse of hope for Great Falls residents after urging the city to upgrade traffic lights along 10th Avenue South.

The traffic lights are under the Montana Department of Transportation's control, however they work hand in hand with the city to maintain them.

When the lights on 20th Street S. and 23rd Street S. were installed back sometime in the 1980's, Wingerter said there wasn't a need for a dedicated turn signal.

"The traffic volumes weren't there. The traffic counts weren't there to justify a left hand turn signal, a dedicated left hand turn signal," said Wingerter.

MDT takes many things into consideration when it comes to determining whether or not a traffic light should be upgraded; including location, traffic, and crash reports.

"We can look at those and evaluate those and use engineering judgment to determine, yeah, we could probably use a turn signal at this location," said Wingerter.

NonStop Local worked with the Great Falls Police Department to pull crash-data from those two intersections for the last few years.

According to the reports, since 2021, there have been 89 accidents between the two intersections along 10th Avenue South.

While some might argue those crashes could have been avoided if the stop lights were upgraded, we don't have specific causes of the accidents.

"September 2023, we started our evaluation. We started a traffic study, and looked at what is out there, what's occurring, what's happening. We have determined that the justified left hand turn signals are necessary and we could start programming a project for them," said Wingerter.

So, MDT started working with the city of Great Falls and the Metropolitan Planning Organization to come up with a plan that would fall in line with their individual plans.

Next steps include looking at what they need to do the upgrades and how to fund the project.

"Then once we get that all wrapped up, then we can go in to start programming a project and running it through our system to have a project programmed and put on the books," said Wingerter.

Now a project like this he said will take about a year, so as long as everything goes according to plan, there will be new traffic lights installed at 20th St. S. and 23rd. St. S. sometime next summer.

Wingerter says in the meantime, it's important to be patient and pay attention when you're driving.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE, MARCH 19, 2024

GREAT FALLS, Mont. - Community members in Great Falls are urging the city to upgrade traffic lights on 10th Avenue South.

Viewers emailed NonStop Local saying 10th Ave. S. is one of the busiest areas in the city and state and it needs a dedicated green arrow for those turning left; specifically on 20th St. South and 23rd St. South, or at least at one of the two intersections.

I spent the day looking into the issue, and reached out to the Great Falls Police Department to see if they had any statistics about the number of crashes in the area that could have possibly been avoided if these stop lights were upgraded.

GFPD said they will get us those statistics, but it will take them a few days to put the data together.

I also reached out to Mayor Cory Reeves, who tells me the lights on 10th Ave. S. are under the Montana Department of Transportation's (MDT) control.

Which led me to MDT, after spending the afternoon emailing with the Public Information Officer, I asked them why there aren't green arrows for those turning left and what it would take to get an upgraded traffic light.

I was told a Great Falls District staff member will be in touch, and I have yet to hear back from them as of 5:25 PM.

I will continue to call and email MDT until we get you a clear answer.
Montana Democrats wave signs in support of U.S. Sen. Jon Tester at the Mansfield Metcalf dinner on March 2, 2024. (Photo by Nicole Girten/Daily Montanan)

U.S. Sen. Jon Testers downtown Bozeman office was vandalized during the weekend with expletives and red and black spray paint reading, Tester funds genocide.

Police were notified of the spray painted messages, and paint crossing out the U.S. Senate seal, on Saturday night, which were sprayed on the exterior of the office along West Main Street.

The vandalism is the latest stunt from agitators who want to see the senator call for a ceasefire in response to the violence in Gaza, something a handful of Democratic candidates in the state have done recently. The largest pro-Palestine organization in the state said it wasnt responsible for the vandalism, and Testers office said the office is still open.

Tester, the chairperson of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, was most recently interrupted by demonstrators at the Democrats annual gala, and before that at a town hall in Butte last fall. The Big Sandy farmer is seeking re-election this November in what is projected to be an expensive and tight race against presumptive Republican nominee, businessman Tim Sheehy.

MT 4 Palestine, which organized the demonstration at the Mansfield Metcalf dinner earlier this month, said it was not behind the vandalism and did not endorse it, but organization leader Brendan Work said the organization shares the anger the sprayed message showed.

A spokesperson for Tester said in a statement the Bozeman office is open, and confirmed staff feels safe to be in the office and are continuing to work with the public.

Lt. Hal Richardson of the Bozeman Police Department told the Daily Montanan Monday the department was first called about the vandalism after midnight on Saturday and an investigation, currently for criminal mischief, is ongoing.

State statute outlines someone charged with criminal mischief can be fined up to $1,500 or be imprisoned for six months, or both.

A handful of Montana Democrats have called for a ceasefire recently, including Montana American Indian Caucus chairman and legislative candidate Lance FourStar and all three of the four Democratic eastern Congressional district candidates, who wrote an open letter calling for a ceasefire.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) voted for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip on Monday, with the U.S. abstaining from the vote.

The post Testers Bozeman Office vandalized in Pro-Palestine protest appeared first on Daily Montanan.
Since late February, gang violence in Haiti has surged, overwhelming government and security forces and plunging the nation into further turmoil. The United Nations estimates that armed gangs now control 80 percent of the nations capital, Port-au-Prince.

The recent wave of violence in the Caribbean nations ongoing gang wars erupted as multiple armed groups banded together, pledging to oust Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who came to power after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021 and announced postponing Haitis elections again last year.

Citing ongoing gang violence as one of the reasons for staving off elections, Henry flew to Kenya in February to press for the deployment of a U.N-backed police force to support the Haitian National Police in fighting the gangs. The armed groups responded by launching a series of coordinated attacks in Port-au-Prince and preventing Henrys return to Haiti.

In the weeks that followed, gangs ravaged two prisons releasing more than 4,000 inmates into the country; destroyed power substations; attacked airports, police stations, and neighborhoods; and took control of major ports and water facilities.

More than 15,000 people have fled their homes in recent weeks. According to an anonymous woman who spoke with CBS News, People go inside your house, killing, raping, all those things, burning your house.

Americans have been urged to leave the country. Nearly 1,000 have filled out crisis intake forms asking for help or assistance to escape the turmoil. At the time of this writing, hundreds of Americans have not been able to evacuate.

During a briefing on March 12, the U.S. State Department announced that in addition to pledging a total contribution of $300 million, the United States helped to broker a deal that will form a new presidential council that will select a new interim prime minister and pave the pathway for elections, as well as the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission. Once the transitional council is established, Kenya will deploy the police force and Henry will step aside.

Despite this development, the situation on the ground for the people of Haiti remains desperate. A U.S. State Department spokesperson said during a press briefing on Monday, It is not hyperbole to say that this is one of the most dire humanitarian situations in the world.

Tragically, fear and suffering from gang violence in Haiti is not new  but is a daily reality for many Haitians.

There are an estimated 200 gangs operating in Haiti, and approximately 95 operate near Port-au-Prince. In 2023, more than 8,400 people were reported killed, injured, or kidnapped, more than two times the amount as the previous year. Further, compared to 2022, rape cases skyrocketed by 49 percent from January to August 2023.

Bringing violence to neighborhoods, gangs demand so-called protection money from residents, and when they cant pay, threaten impoverished civilians. Twenty-eight-year-old Annie, who fled Port-au-Prince with her family two years ago, told the BBC, I saw so many awful things I never thought I would see. We were afraid for our lives.

She added, We are living with death on a daily basis.

In addition to gang violence, chronic political instability, natural disasters, foreign intervention, and debt have crippled Haitis economy, fueled violence, and hindered development.

Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, and more than half of the population lives below the World Banks poverty line. In a population of 11.7 million people, approximately 5.5 million Haitians require humanitarian assistance, more than 4 million people are affected by food insecurity, and 19,000 are experiencing famine.

"I wake up in the morning and if we have sugar in the house, we make sugar water and put a bit of salt in it, just to drink it and stop the pain of hunger," Kerby, a Haitian who fled Port-au-Prince due to gang threats, recently told the BBC.

Amid the recent developments, it is unclear what the governance of Haiti will look like and how it will impact the future of the Caribbean nation.

As gang violence and chaos continue to wreak havoc, the international community must work to bring peace and stability to Haiti.

For more commentary form Callista Gingrich, visit Gingrich360.com.
Habitat for Humanity Courtesy Logo/Manistee County Habitat for Humanity

MANISTEE COUNTY  Consumers Energy is working once again to provide financial support to Habitat for Humanity affiliates across Michigan.

Manistee County Habitat for Humanity has set a local goal of $25,000 to help fund critical housing needs in Manistee County.

Through the Power of Home campaign, Consumers Energy will donate $1 for every $2 raised through individual Habitat donations, up to $100,000.

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Manistee County Habitat for Humanity has focused on assisting Manistee residents in the ability to stay in their home with their Handicap Assessable Ramp Program and will start a new build of an energy efficient home in 2024.

Thanks to this match from Consumers Energy and donors, the funding will go further at a time when the Power of Home is more important than ever," said Amy Wojciechowski, Manistee County Habitat for Humanity board member.

In order to receive the Consumers Energy match, all donations must be made through the online giving platform Classy. To donate, visit classy.org/give/t566471/#! /donation/checkout on April 1.
Pig producers have been warned to consider the 'very real threat' of African swine fever (ASF) in the UK as the virus continues to spread in Europe.

In new guidance, the National Pig Association (NPA) has urged farmers to consider whether they are doing everything they can to prevent and prepare for ASF.

It follows a marked increase in domestic pig outbreaks across Europe last year, with 1,000 recorded over the summer, the highest figure in recent years, driven by rapid spread in the Balkans.

ASF was reported in domestic pigs in 13 European countries between May 2023 and January 2024, and in wild boar in 17 European countries over the period.

Whilst ASF doesnt affect humans, it is a highly contagious and fatal notifiable disease that is also present in parts of Asia and Africa.

The NPA has urged farmers to spend some time over Easter familiarising themselves with its guidance, covering everything about the virus and a possible outbreak.

The 26-page document includes information on how the virus spreads, as well as biosecurity advice and clinical signs.

It also looks at what happens if the disease is confirmed on the farm, and the the different zones and restrictions that would be in put in place in the event of an outbreak.

Industry concerns have been heightened since December, with the revelation over the large quantities of illegally imported meat, around 75 tonnes since September 2022, being seized at the Port of Dover.

Most of this was pork from ASF-affected parts of Europe, with the prospect that this work will be compromised due to funding cuts.

The NPA said it had 'huge concern' at Defras decision to slash funding for the Dover Port Health Authority (DPHA) for this work from April.

While APHA currently rates the overall risk of entry of ASF virus from affected countries, at medium (occurs regularly), it states that the risk of ASF entering from the human-mediated pathway remains at 'high' (occurs very often).

NPA chief executive. Lizzie Wilson said there was 'no doubt' that ASF remained the biggest threat to the British pig industry.

We continue to make the case to government for proper resources to be put in place at Dover, and other points of entry, to help ensure we keep it out," she said.

"We also continue to seek clarity on the governments plans and the rules that would apply in the event of an outbreak, including in relation to regionalised pork trade.

But it is also essential that everyone who works in the pork sector does their bit to keep the virus at bay and is prepared, as much as possible, in the event an outbreak.

We urge all members to take a good look at our comprehensive guidance, which is a live document that is updated as new information comes through."
Thousands of small-scale farmers have launched a new petition today demanding the UK government to double its agriculture budget.

The Landworkers' Alliance (LWA), a union representing 2,400 small-scale ecological farmers, says the government is failing to do enough to support the industry.

It says a transition to a nature-friendly farming system is 'now beyond dispute', but further government support is needed to 'ensure the security of farming livelihoods'.

Modelling by the NFU estimates that 4 billion a year is needed to support an agricultural policy that supports productivity, the environment and the economic stability of farms.

Similarly, research by RSPB, the National Trusts and the Wildlife Trusts revealed that 4.4 billion a year is needed to invest in nature-friendly farming to meet legally binding commitments

A bigger budget, backed by political will, can ensure that nature, farmers and the UK food supply are all protected, the LWA says.

The extra budget would be spent on higher payments for the Environmental Land Management Schemes (ELMS), as well as advice, mentoring and support networks for farmers.

Capital grants for a transition to environmental farming and organic conversion payments are also needed, the union says.

The petition will run until September, with the LWA hoping that it will reach enough signatures to be debated in parliament before the general election.

Jyoti Fernandes, smallholder farmer from Dorset and head of policy at the alliance, warned that there would be 'no food if we dont sort out the ecological crisis'.

"There will be no food if farmers cant earn a living growing food and restoring the land," he added.

"We need a green transition, so farmers can work with dignity as they change the way they farm. So many farmers are already pioneering nature-friendly farming methods but they too are being left behind.

"Its time for the UK government to take food and farming seriously and double the agriculture budget to support a green transition in farming that doesnt leave farmers behind.

James Rebanks, cattle farmer from Cumbria and author of The Shepherds Life and English Pastoral, said there needed to be greater investment in the food and farming system.

It is within our grasp to make rural Britain all we need it to be. The financial cost is embarrassingly small - we just need the political will to make it happen.

"Whatever your politics, a bigger budget and more support for farmers makes perfect sense - it is investing in our own landscapes and food systems for the sake of all of us.

If the petition reaches 10,000 signatures it will receive a response from the government, and if it reaches 100,000 signatures the issue will be debated in parliament.
Welsh farmers and landowners are turning away from camping diversification due to a lack of government action on extending permitted development rights.

Just 33 new Welsh pop-up campsites were added to Pitchup.com in the last 12 months, down from 53 the year before, and 97 the year before that.

Data from VisitBritain also reveals that 34% of holidays in Wales involve camping compared to just 20% in England and 21% in Scotland, meaning the country has an opportunity to capitalise on.

Dan Yates, founder of Pitchup.com, said that pop-up campsites  those run for a limited length of under permitted development rights (PDR)  were the cheapest and easiest form of diversification for farmers.

But he added he was not surprised the growth in pop-up sites was declining, stating the issue lay firmly at the door of the Welsh government.

Currently, PDR allows farmers and landowners in Wales to run a temporary campsite for 28 days per year without applying for further planning permission.

However, just across the border in England, pop-up campsite owners can legally operate for 60 days a year.

The Welsh Assembly ran a public consultation on extending PDR to help farmers diversify and boost the rural economy, but more than two years after the consultation ended, Ministers have yet to make an announcement on the issue.

Mr Yates said there was a huge opportunity in Wales: "Allowing farmers and landowners to run temporary campsites for the summer season means they can earn extra income.

When the Welsh government launched the consultation we were extremely optimistic they would see sense and extend PDR as the Westminster government has done in England.

"But instead, in a snub to Welsh farmers and landowners, theyve remained completely tight-lipped about it.

As a consequence, a sector that should be absolutely flourishing is rapidly slowing down and likely to go into reverse over the next couple of years if something isnt done.

PDR was first extended from 28 days to 56 days in 2021 as a way for the rural economy to bounce back from Covid and to provide extra holiday accommodation in the UK as people were unable to travel abroad.

Despite the success of the initiative  which added an extra 25m into the rural economy  PDR returned to 28 days on 31 December 2021.

However, after lobbying from Pitchup.com, as well as rural organisations, PDR was permanently extended in June 2023 to 60 days in England, while in Wales and Scotland it remains at 28.

The Welsh government has consulted on the issue, but more than two years after the consultation closed, theyre yet to give an update on whether or not the law will be changed.

Susan Allen, who runs the Moss Lane Cottage campsite just a mile from the English border in Wales, said the disparity in regulations threatened the survival of the pop-up camping sector in Wales.

She said: It is very frustrating that the Welsh government doesnt seem to want to follow suit and extend PDR as in England, as campsites there get five or six more weekends than we do.

Im not saying that if we got 56 or 60 days we would use them all, but to be able to open more weekends across the summer would make a big difference to us financially.
Cuba Gooding Jr is being accused of sexual assault in a music producers $30 million lawsuit against Sean Diddy Combs.

Cuba Gooding Jr is being accused of sexual assault in a music producers $30 million lawsuit against Sean Diddy Combs

The actor, 56, has been named in an amended version of the suit filed on Monday (25.02.24), which now lists him as a defendant in the case.

Rodney Lil Rod Jones Jr first filed his mega-money lawsuit against his former employer Diddy, 54, in February, accusing the rapper and business mogul in his civil complaint lodged at a New York federal court of sexually harassing, drugging and threatened him for more than a year.

Cuba was mentioned in the original filing, but a new version of the suit naming him as a defendant came to light on Monday, with its contents reported by Page Six.

In the complaint, Rodney claims Oscar-winning Jerry Maguire star Cuba began touching, groping, and fondling (his) legs, his upper inner thighs near his groin, the small of his back near his buttocks, and his shoulders while they were on a yacht in the US Virgin Islands rented by Diddy in January last year.

The producer said he was convinced Diddy was grooming him to pass him off to his friends when he introduced him to Cuba  and allegedly suggested that Cuba get to know Mr Jones better.

Rodney said he was left extremely uncomfortable and rejected (Cubas) advances  but added the actor did not stop until Mr Jones forcibly pushed him away.

Diddys grown-up son Justin, as well as his chief of staff Kristina Khorram and Universal Music Group CEO Sir Lucian Grainge are also named as defendants in Rodneys updated lawsuit.

Diddys lawyer Shawn Holley said in a statement at the time of Rodneys original filing: Lil Rod is nothing more than a liar who filed a $30 million lawsuit shamelessly looking for an undeserved payday.

His reckless name-dropping about events that are pure fiction and simply did not happen is nothing more than a transparent attempt to garner headlines.

We have overwhelming, indisputable proof that his claims are complete lies. Our attempts to share this proof with Mr Jones attorney, Tyrone Blackburn, have been ignored, as Mr Blackburn refuses to return our calls.

We will address these outlandish allegations in court and take all appropriate action against those who make them.

On Monday (25.03.24), two of Diddys mansions were raided by federal agents, which a Homeland Security Investigations spokesperson saying it was part of an ongoing investigation.

Cuba has previously faced sexual assault allegations, and in April 2022 pleaded guilty to one count of forcibly touching a woman at a New York City rooftop bar in 2018.

June 2023 saw the actor settle a 2020 lawsuit brought against him, in which he was accused of raping a woman twice in 2013.
Eva Mendes has branded her mum "incredible" for retaining her sense of humour during her battle with cancer.

Eva Mendes has opened up about her mum's cancer battle

The 50-year-old actress opened up about her mother Eva Perez Suarez's health crisis two months ago revealing she is now a "cancer survivor" after finishing treatment and she's now credited her with staying strong and "funny" throughout such a tough few years after losing Eva's brother Carlos to cancer in 2016.

During an appearance on the 'Today' show, Eva said: "She lost my brother just a few years ago to cancer ... This woman is incredible. Shes still funny as hell."

Eva went on to explain she has been taking her mum to her follow-up appointments and she's still cracking jokes. The movie star added: If I take her to the doctors office, which I take her often, and they ask her, like: 'Oh, you know, have you had this removed or do you have this?'

"She goes: 'Listen, its easier if I tell you what I still have. Everythings gone'."

Earlier this year, the 'Last Night' star shared her mother's cancer battle with her followers on Instagram but explained her mum didn't want the details of her health crisis to be made public.

Eva wrote: "This Barbie is my Hero. I wish this Barbie wasnt so private then Id be able to share everything she has survived  but the only thing shell let me share is that she is a cancer survivor. Like thats not enough, I know. I see my strength in her eyes."

Eva's brother Carlos died in 2016 at the age of 53 after a battle with throat cancer - just two weeks before she welcomed her second daughter with partner Ryan Gosling.
Queen Camilla hosted authors and actors at a star-studded event in London to celebrate reading.

Queen Camilla hosted a glitzy event in London to mark three years since the launch of her reading charity

The royal oversaw the glitzy bash at Clarence House on Tuesday night (26.03.24) to mark the third anniversary of her Reading Room book club charity and it was attended by writers including Harlan Corben, Donna Tartt and Philippa Gregory and actors Helena Bonham Carter, Dame Joanna Lumley, Rupert Everett and Sir Derek Jacobi.

Camilla, 76, gave a speech at the event which highlighted new research which suggests just five minutes of reading a day can have significant health benefits. She told the star-studded audience: "In addition to our five a day and our 10,000 steps, we should all be aiming for at least five minutes of reading every day for invaluable benefits for brain health and mental well-being.

"Just as we always suspected, books are good for us  and now science is proving us right!"

The Queen's Reading Room is a charity which celebrate and promotes the power and benefits of reading and aims to help more people connect with books.

During her speech, Camilla said of the project: "Thanks to all of you, the Reading Room is doing what it can to spread the word about how literature, quite simply, makes life better.

"Since it began three years ago, it has reached nearly 12 million people through all its platforms, produced more than a thousand pieces of educational literary content and had its inaugural festival at Hampton Court, attended by almost 8,000 people from as far afield as the United States, Canada, Northern Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

"It's also launched a podcast, which this year will take us into the 'reading rooms' of 32 captivating writers, actors and thinkers. And now, this first study sees us embarking on an important journey to understand the science behind the power of stories to enrich our lives.

"This would not have been possible without all of you: your talents, your imagination, your originality, your support and, most of all, your profound love of the written word."

Speaking at the event, Joanna Lumley was full of praise of the Queen's mission to promote reading. She said: "It's like walking into a room with a packet of crisps when everyone is starving, people are ravenous for something and then they get hold of it and devour it.

"Thats why this book club has reached 12 million in three years, and that's an extraordinary number. It's like rock star stuff. And it will only get better ...

"Reading makes you feel less stressed, you go to a happy place, you never feel alone with book. And we have all discovered the same things are activated. And yet all we do is give children small screens."
Renee Rapp has blasted "witches" who refuse to accept her evolving understanding of her own sexuality.

Renee Rapp blasts people questioning her sexuality

The 'Mean Girls' actress has hit out at those who have questioned her identifying as a lesbian in recent months after previously describing herself as bisexual in past interviews.

In a blunt post on X, formerly Twitter, she wrote: "If I say Im a lesbian I am a lesbian and if someone says theyre bi they are bi Ive had enough of you witches."

Last month, the 24-year-old star opened up on her journey of self-discovery as she started to realise that she was gay, not bisexual.

She told The Hollywood Reporter: "Ive only recently started referring to myself as a lesbian, and Ive only recently been in a relationship where Im like, 'Yeah, Im a lesbian for sure'.

"I'm watching all these movies and parts of gay culture, specifically lesbian culture, and Im like, 'I love this.' "

Her role in 'The Sex Lives of College Girls' - which she quit during the its third season - also impacted her when she rewatched a scene where her character Leighton came out as gay.

She recalled: "I would call my friends and Id be like, 'I think I'm a lesbian, but I really love my boyfriend. I would want to be with him, but I see him more as a friend'.

"So not only was I doing that on the show, publicly, in a big way to so many people, and my family, who had no idea that I was gay, I was also going through it personally."

Renee previously admitted she feels a "responsibility" as a queer celebrity.

She previously told The Independent newspaper: "Theres an inherent responsibility. If youre somebody who has any sort of visibility as a queer person, right?"

She added: "You want to be careful and respectful and inclusive and really honest. I was freaked out when it started becoming this public thing.

"Also, I was making it a public thing. I still go through this now - I was speaking to my girlfriend this morning, being like, Oh my God, I talk about being gay so much, and beating myself up for it, but then Im like, What am I beating myself up for? What are these internalised homophobic remarks Im saying to myself?"
Sean 'Diddy' Combs' lawyer has described the raids on the rapper's homes as an "excessive show of force and hostility".

Sean 'Diddy' Combs' lawyers have responded to the raids

The 54-year-old star's legal team has responded after the musician's properties in Los Angeles and Miami were raided by Homeland Security amid an ongoing sex trafficking and sexual assault investigation against the star.

In a statement, Combs' lawyer said: "Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr. Combs residences.

"There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated.

"Mr. Combs was never detained but spoke to and cooperated with authorities. Despite media speculation, neither Mr. Combs nor any of his family members have been arrested nor has their ability to travel been restricted in any way."

The raid comes amid the mounting lawsuits recently filed against Bad Boy Records founder Combs including allegations of assault and human trafficking  all of which have been denied by the entertainer.

It's not yet known whether Combs was the target of the investigation.

However, his team has now described the raids as "nothing more than a witch hunt".

They continued: "This unprecedented ambush  paired with an advanced, coordinated media presence  leads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr. Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits.

There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations. Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name.

FOX11 had broadcast the moment a number of individuals were handcuffed by armed officers after police arrived at the LA home on a boat.

Combs was not at either property when the raids took place.

A spokesperson for Homeland Security told ABC7 on Monday (25.03.24): "Earlier today, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation, with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and our local law enforcement partners.

"We will provide further information as it becomes available."
Emily Mai's Pho & More offerred exquisite Vietnamese food at Midland Mall's food court. Ben Jodway/Midland Daily News Dining Out With The Daily News Midland Daily News Emily Mai's Pho & More offerred exquisite Vietnamese food at Midland Mall's food court. Ben Jodway/Midland Daily News Emily Mai's Pho & More offerred exquisite Vietnamese food at Midland Mall's food court. Ben Jodway/Midland Daily News Ben Jodway Midland Daily News

Clouds were darkening outside, and I could begin to smell the oncoming rain as I ventured into the Midland Mall for a bite to eat.

A new aroma beckoned me to Emily Mais Pho and More.

Emily Mais Pho & More Address: Midland Mall Food Court, 6800 Eastman Ave, Midland, MI, United States, Michigan Hours (tentative): 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., six days a week Website: https://bit.ly/49bKXtO Email: maiemilyvietshop@gmail.com

The business was started by Emily Mai and her husband, Winston Wojda. Emily Mai is from Vietnam, and Winston said that he spent 12 years there. They both wanted to bring authentic Vietnamese cuisine to Midland.

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What they brought back was phenomenal.

Their food court is located next to the future One Love Smoothie on the right side as you enter. Pho is a beef broth soup with rice noodles. I ordered a pho bo #1 ($14.99). The variant I chose had tender cooked beef. The other two consisted of thin sliced rare beef and #3 included both types of beef.

Along with the pho, I ordered a Banh Mi Thit Cha Lua ($9.49), a Vietnamese sandwich. Emily Mais included pate, BBQ pork, cha lua (Vietnamese pork sausage), pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, mayo, cilantro and Maggie seasoning sauce.

I was worried that ordering a side might be too much, so I opted for a Vietnamese iced coffee called Ca Phe Sua Da ($4.99) which is coffee with condensed milk.

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As it was the restaurants soft opening, it took a little bit of time for me to request my order. In fact, the demand was so high the shop had to close early after I left. The staff, however, was incredibly nice and accommodating.

My first order served to me was the Ca Phe Sua Da. Winston stopped me before I took the drinkits not your normal iced coffee.

Its extremely concentrated because the ice in the coffee usually melts because of the heat, he said. In fact, the drink seemed only half fullwhich was normal as the ice is supposed to melt in the hot summers. It was an item he wanted to bring back to the U.S. because theres nothing quite like it here.

He wanted to see the look on my face as I took my first sip. It tasted like chocolatebut not like a mocha. It was like sipping on chocolate milk without any overwhelming richness that comes from the syrup. I loved it.

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The sandwich and the pho were delivered together. But pho isnt your typical soup, just like Ca Phe Sua Da isnt your typical coffee.

While pho can be eaten on its own, its served with a variety of additives. There was a slice of lime, jalapeno, thai basil, and some siracha that I could add.

If I wanted to add more to the soup, he suggested I start with the lime and slowly go spicier until I find my preferred flavor profile.

Youll find like 20 different flavor profiles, he said.

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He wasnt wrong. The base pho was delicious on its ownit had a savory, herby flavor. It wasnt heavy like some other soups. Among the savory beef were chopped vegetables, which did a good job of filling me up. Adding the lime helped make the flavor profile come together even better for me.

Lastly was the banh mi. It looks almost like a submarine sandwich, but the bread is tougher as it uses a baguette. Biting into it, the different ingredients worked together in harmony to give a meaty, savory sandwich with a lighter tang to it thanks to the pickled ingredients.

Throughout my dining experience with excellent service, I was surprised at how much food I had yet it never felt heavy. I did not feel like I needed to enter a food coma, rather it was a refreshing experience as I headed back out into a rainy Midland evening.

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Simon Cowell has adopted another puppy just months after he brought home a new German Shepherd called Pebbles.

Simon Cowell has another new puppy

The 64-year-old TV star is now a proud doggy dad to six pooches after welcoming a black and white Chihuahua into the family with Simon showing off the new addition in a series of pictures posted on Instagram.

He wrote: "Ive just fallen in love."

Simon didn't reveal the new pooches name. The Chihuahua joins German Shepherd puppy Pebbles, who Simon shared pictures of for the first time in January.

The 'Britain's Got Talent' judge and his partner Lauren Silverman also have two Yorkshire terriers named Squiddly and Diddly and adopted pooch Daisy - who was brought home from Barbados - while Simon also took in his mum's dog Freddy following her death in 2015.

Simon is a dedicated dog-lover and has a long history of supporting animal charities.

He previously admitted he loved his dogs so much, he would considering cloning them so he would never have to be without them.

Simon told The Sun On Sunday newspaper: "I am 100 per cent cloning the dogs, all of them. Weve thoroughly looked into it, got all the details and I can prove to you Im going to clone them. There is documentation.

"I am doing it because I cannot bear the thought of them not being around. I might actually do it sooner rather than later, which will mean we have six dogs running around. It doesnt hurt them. Its like a swab, a DNA thing. "I cannot imagine Squiddly, Diddly and Freddy not being around, so this is the solution."

It was also previously reported Simon has allocated a huge slice of his fortune to go to animal charities after his death. He's believed to have made a will which includes substantial donations to causes he cares about including Dogs Trust, K9 in Barbados, and Londons Battersea Dogs Home.

He told Glamour magazine: "I have always loved dogs but had no idea how much happiness they would bring to my life. [My dogs] are hugely important members of my family - and even the thought of any dog being mistreated sickens me."
Tom Schwartz "made out" with Scheana Shay 12 years ago.

Tom Schwartz has recalled kissing his co-star in 2012

The 41-year-old TV star made the confession to Lala Kent while he was defending Tom Sandoval over his 2023 cheating scandal.

During the latest episode of 'Vanderpump Rules', Tom shared: "What [Sandoval] did compared to what we have all done, I think everyone has cheated in some way.

"Everyone has cheated. We have all cheated."

Tom recalled locking lips with Scheana, 38, in 2012 - but he insisted that it was "the most innocuous thing ever".

He said: "I made out with Scheana like 12 years ago in Vegas. No one even knows that. It was so long ago and it was the most innocuous thing ever."

Tom shared a kiss with Scheana while he and Katie Maloney - his ex-wife - were in the midst of a "rocky moment".

He recalled: "It was somewhere in Vegas. Me and Katie were dating but it was a rocky moment. I just wanted to put it out there and let the record show that we are all human."

Tom's 2023 cheating scandal led to his split from Ariana Madix, and the reality star recently revealed that she still isn't ready to forgive her ex-boyfriend.

The 38-year-old beauty admitted that she isn't ready to get on the "Sandoval sympathy train" just yet.

Speaking to Lala Kent on a recent episode of 'Vanderpump Rules', Ariana said: "My position has not changed that he doesn't get any sort of access to my life via me or via mutual friends.

"I'm not down with him being around. You know, I can quietly remove myself from situations that make me uncomfortable.

"I'm not the person to come to with the Sandoval sympathy train."
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Standard Chartered has maintained Vietnams 2024 gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast at 6.7 per cent. GDP is projected to accelerate from 6.2 per cent in the first half this year to 6.9 per cent in the second.

While the Vietnamese government has set a target of 6-6.5 per cent GDP growth rate this year, the Asian Development Bank has projected the figure at 6 per cent. The International Monetary Fund has forecast 5.8 per cent.

Standard Chartered has maintained Vietnam's 2024 GDP growth forecast at 6.7 per cent. GDP is projected to accelerate from 6.2 per cent in the first half this year to 6.9 per cent in the second. The country's retail sales, export growth rate and import value are anticipated to rise at 9.2 per cent, 5.2 per cent and 5 per cent respectively this year.

The World Bank has said Vietnams economy is likely to grow at 5.5 per cent this year and at 6 per cent in the next.

The countrys retail sales, export growth rate and import value are anticipated to rise at 9.2 per cent, 5.2 per cent and 5 per cent respectively this year. Trade surplus is projected to drop to $0.8 billion, according to a domestic media outlet.

Standard Chartered feels that even though GDP growth rate in the first quarter this year is likely to slow down, Vietnam still maintains its recovery momentum. The bank is, however, cautious about the growth overview in the first half due to challenges in global trade.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
Heeramandi Release Date Revealed: Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali's highly-anticipated OTT series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, is set to release very soon and fans are looking forward to watch it. Ever since its announcement, the OTT show has been making headlines due to its high budget and a talented cast comprising Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, and Manisha Koirala among others.

HEERAMANDI RELEASE DATE ANNOUNCEMENT EVENT DETAILS

After the teaser and songs of Heeramandi, the much-awaited release date of the show has been finally announced by the makers. The premiere date was unveiled during a spectacular drone light show event held at the Mahalaxmi Race Course in South Mumbai today (March 27). A captivating glimpse into the world of Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar was presented through an aerial formation of drones.

The event was graced by the star-studded cast of the show, including Sharmin Segal and Sanjeeda Sheikh, along with Prerna Singh, CEO of Bhansali Productions, and Tanya Bami, Director of Series at Netflix India.

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HEERAMANDI RELEASE DATE: WHEN AND WHERE TO WATCH BHANSALI'S SHOW?

Heeramandi is confirmed to premiere on the OTT giant Netflix on May 1. Yes, you read that right! To watch it, fans have to install the Netflix app on their mobile phones, laptops, smart TVs, or laptops. Then, choose the plan accordingly to subscribe and watch the much-hyped show that marks Bhansali's digital debut.

HEERAMANDI PLOT, BUDGET, AND OTHER DETAILS

Characterized as an expansive tale of love, authority, retribution, and liberation, the series purportedly explores the intricate cultural dynamics of Heeramandi, a lively district, by delving into the stories of courtesans and their patrons amidst the backdrop of India's tumultuous struggle for independence in the 1940s.

Based on the concept by Moin Beg, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar is both created and directed by Bhansali, who also serves as a producer on the show.

The show is among Bhansali's most ambitious projects and is reportedly made on a budget of a whopping Rs 200 crore.
Aadujeevitham Kerala Final Pre-Sales: "Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life)" is a Malayalam survival drama film penned, directed, and co-produced by Blessy. This international co-production involves companies from both India and the United States. "Aadujeevitham" hit theatres on March 28, 2024, and promises a gripping cinematic experience.

"Aadujeevitham" is a cinematic adaptation of the acclaimed 2008 Malayalam novel "Aadujeevitham" by Benyamin, inspired by real events. In the film, Prithviraj Sukumaran portrays Najeeb, a Malayali immigrant labourer compelled into slavery as a goatherd on an isolated farm in Saudi Arabia.

The film underwent a prolonged development phase starting in 2009, with Blessy expressing interest in adapting Aadujeevitham after discovering the novel in 2008. Prithviraj was cast during the same year, and in 2009, Blessy initiated negotiations with Benyamin and commenced work on the screenplay. However, financial constraints hindered significant progress. Blessy devoted years to securing a producer, achieving success in 2015, which propelled the project forward. Joining as producers were Jimmy Jean-Louis and Steven Adams, alongside Blessy himself. A. R. Rahman contributed the film's original score and songs.

Filming occurred in stages from March 2018 to July 2022, spanning six schedules across the deserts of Wadi Rum, Jordan, and the Sahara, Algeria, supplemented by scenes shot in Kerala, India. The crew faced a 70-day ordeal in the Jordanian desert from March to May 2020, trapped by COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Eventually, they were repatriated to India through the Indian government's Vande Bharat Mission evacuation program. Filming wrapped up on July 14, 2022.

Initially, Suriya was chosen and approached for the character of Najeeb, and Blessy had discussions with him regarding the role. However, due to his busy schedule and prior commitments, he opted out. Subsequently, Prithviraj agreed to take on the role while he was filming on the sets of Pokkiri Raja (2010) in 2008.

Aadujeevitham Kerala Final Pre-Sales Update

According to the latest update from film industry tracker Friday Matinee, Aadujeevitham's final pre-sales figures for Kerala have been revealed. With 1308 shows tracked, an impressive 221,386 tickets have been sold, resulting in a gross revenue of 3.50 crore. The occupancy rate stands at a remarkable 60.38%. These numbers signify a groundbreaking achievement, marking the first-ever 5-crore plus opening for Prithviraj Sukumaran. The overwhelming response from audiences underscores the anticipation and excitement surrounding the film's release.

#AaduJeevitham Kerala Final Pre-Sales Update :



Shows Tracked : 1308

Tickets Sold : 221386

Gross : 3.50 Cr

Occupancy: 60.38 %



First ever 5 Cr + Opening Loading For Prithviraj  pic.twitter.com/AT75VCuOcQ  Friday Matinee (@VRFridayMatinee) March 27, 2024

Aadujeevitham Cast And Crew

The film features Prithviraj Sukumaran in the role of Najeeb Mohammed, Amala Paul as Sainu, Najeeb's wife, Jimmy Jean-Louis as Ibrahim Khadiri, Shobha Mohan as Ummah, Najeeb's mother, KR Gokul as Hakeem, Talib Al Balushi as Khafeel, Rik Aby as Jasser, and Nazer Karutheni as Kunjikka.

Scripted by Benyamin and helmed by Blessy, the film's cinematography was handled by Sunil K. S., with editing done by A. Sreekar Prasad, while the musical score was composed by A. R. Rahman. The production was overseen by Blessy, Jimmy Jean-Louis, and Steven Adams under the banners of Visual Romance Image Makers, Jet Media Production, and Alta Global Media.
Lover OTT Release: The Tamil film 'Lover,' released on February 9, 2024, features Manikandan and Gouri Priya Reddy in the lead roles. Directed by debutant Prabhu Ram Vyas, the movie promises to deliver a captivating romantic drama.

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Lover Synopsis

As Arun and Divya's six-year relationship begins to unravel, they find themselves drifting apart, prompting the question of whether love can endure such differences.

Lover Cast And Crew

The film's ensemble cast features K. Manikandan portraying the character of Arun, while Sri Gouri Priya takes on the role of Divya Shanmugam. Kanna Ravi brings the character of Madan Wanders to life, alongside Harish Kumar as Suhail. Saravanan and Geetha Kailasam portray Arun's parents, while Nikhila Shankar and Harini depict Divya's friends, with Nikhila playing Divya's friend and flatmate and Harini appearing as Aishu. The cast is further enriched by Pintu Pandu and Arunachaleshwaran, who portray significant roles as well.

The film's technical team includes cinematographer Shreyaas Krishna, editor Barath Vikraman, and music composer Sean Rolden.

Lover OTT Release Date And Platform

The much-awaited Tamil romantic drama film "Lover," helmed by debutant director Prabhu Ram Vyas and featuring Manikandan and Gouri Priya Reddy in lead roles, has commenced its digital streaming journey and is currently accessible on Disney+ Hotstar starting March 27. With an eager audience anticipating its release, boasting a talented ensemble cast and a proficient technical team, the film's arrival on the streaming platform marks the end of anticipation. Whether viewers missed the theatrical experience or are eager for a rewatch, they can now indulge in the captivating narrative of love and its intricacies from the comfort of their own homes, exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar.

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Lover Review

According to film industry tracker Ramesh Bala, "Lover" is a 'True Lover' and garners a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from him. The film delves into the dynamics of a possessive boyfriend and a girlfriend seeking independence. As their relationship unfolds on screen, the audience is kept engaged, wondering whether they will resolve their differences or part ways permanently. The movie captures attention from the very first scene and concludes with a convincing climax. Manikandan delivers a fantastic performance, while Gouri Priya Reddy shines in her role. Kannaravi's portrayal adds depth to the narrative, and Sean Roldan's music serves as the lifeline of the film. Director Prabhu Ram Vyas presents a realistic romantic tale tailored for today's youth, making "Lover" a definite winner in the genre.
Robo Shankar, a well-known comedian in the Tamil film industry, recently celebrated his daughter Indraja Shankar's wedding in Madurai on March 24th. The event was attended by many celebrities from both the film and television industries. Following the wedding, Robo Shankar organized a lavish reception for his daughter and her husband. Known for his roles alongside top actors like Ajith, Vijay, and Dhanush, Robo Shankar has made a significant mark in cinema. His portrayal of Vijayakanth's style has won him many fans.

Robo Shankar's performance as an MLA in Vishnu Vishal's "Velainu Vandhutta Vellaikaaran" was particularly memorable for his comedic timing. Recently, he faced a health challenge with jaundice, which led to a significant weight loss and made him almost unrecognizable. However, after a tough battle with the illness, he recovered fully, inspiring many with his resilience. Indraja Shankar, Robo Shankar's daughter, married her cousin Karthik in a grand ceremony in Madurai. The couple had been engaged for a few months before tying the knot.

The wedding invitations were extended to several prominent politicians, and celebrities like Soori, Boss Venkat, and Amrutha were in attendance. Leading up to the wedding, videos of the family shopping for jewelry and sarees, as well as Indraja applying mehendi, went viral on social media. The reception menu was a feast of various dishes including mutton biryani, chicken fry, and several other delicacies.

Indraja Shankar has also made her mark in the Tamil film industry. She gained recognition for her role as Pandiammal in Vijay's "Bigil," where her dialogue against body shaming was widely appreciated. Following this success, she appeared in Karthi's "Viruman" in 2022, continuing to build her career with strong performances.
Veppam Kulir Mazhai Early Review: Veppam Kulir Mazhai, a Tamil film set to hit theaters on March 29, 2024, is helmed by Pascal Vedamuthu. The cast includes Dhirav G, Ismath Banu, M. S. Bhaskar, Rama, and Vijaya Lakshmi in prominent roles.

Veppam Kulir Mazhai Synopsis

The narrative follows Petthaperumal and Paandi, a contentedly married couple facing societal pressure to conceive, delving into the impact on their relationship.

Veppam Kulir Mazhai Receives Rave Reviews: A Heartfelt Depiction of Parenthood and Village Life

Veppam Kulir Mazhai has received positive reviews from the Special Premiere show, with Film Journalist Rajasekar's X (formerly Twitter) post highlighting its strengths. Describing it as a small rural film with a big heart, Rajasekar praised director Pascal's handling of the sensitive topic of parenthood with sincerity and authenticity. The film portrays the pain of an innocent couple longing to become parents without deviating from its core plot. Lead actors Dhirav and Ismath Banu delivered outstanding performances, particularly in emotionally charged scenes, showcasing their courage and dedication. The film's portrayal of village life was commended for its realism, with supporting actors MS Bhaskar and Rama also receiving praise for their roles. Shankar's music, reminiscent of Ilaiyaraaja's style, added depth to the film. With a rating of 3.5 out of 5, Veppam Kulir Mazhai comes highly recommended for audiences seeking a heartfelt and authentic cinematic experience.

Watched a small rural film #VeppamKulirMazhai (#VKM) with big heart that emotionally beats at the right places! We have seen how becoming parents has become a big headache for modern day youngsters through films like #GoodNewwz with a comical fake but in #VKM, @DirectorPascal has pic.twitter.com/9OXtaejE2t  Rajasekar (@sekartweets) March 27, 2024

Good Reviews for #VeppamKulirMazhai from the Special Premiere show.  Christopher Kanagaraj (@Chrissuccess) March 27, 2024

Veppam Kulir Mazhai Cast And Crew

The ensemble of Veppam Kulir Mazhai features Dhirav G, Ismath Banu, M. S. Bhaskar, Rama, and Vijaya Lakshmi in key roles.

Pascal Vedamuthu served as both the director and writer of the film. In addition to acting, Dhirav G took on the roles of producer and editor. Shankar Rangarajan was responsible for the music composition, while Prithvi Rajendran served as the cinematographer. Anand Ramachandran handled sound design, and Balachander C. S. acted as the art director.
Renowned for her remarkable performances on screen, Lady Superstar Nayanthara often shares pictures with her family embracing her role as a loving mother to her adorable twins, Uyir and Ulagam. Recently, Nayanthara took to social media to share endearing snapshots of their family of four.

The images captured the joyous reunion of Nayanthara, her two charming little ones, and her husband Vignesh Shivan after his return from a 20-day film shoot in Singapore. Expressing her delight, Nayanthara wrote, " Can't explain how we three felt when we saw u after a long 20 days of schedule! We really missed you! I Love you my everything 

Isn't their bond just heartwarming?

Vignesh, equally enamoured, shared the precious moments on his social media platform, captioning it, "If love had faces My uyirs & ulagams"
The Morley village council recently approved changes to the village's marijuana ordinance, effectively repealing the prohibition of marijuana retail establishments within village limits. Julie Norwood, Pioneer Photo

MORLEY  The village of Morley council approved changes to its marijuana ordinance during its meeting March 11, effectively repealing the prohibition of marijuana retail establishments in the village.

The village council has been discussing this for about two years, village clerk Terry Stilson said. We have had around 10 or 15 residents coming to the meetings in the last few months, and none have spoken of their objections.

In December 2018, the village council adopted an ordinance to opt out of the voter approved recreational adult use marijuana retail establishments within the boundaries of the village of Morley.

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According to the newly adopted ordinance, the village has chosen to repeal the ordinance that prohibited marijuana establishments in the village and will now allow such establishments in accordance with the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act and regulate such establishments.

The type and number of permitted establishments are as follows:

Class A grower  not more than 100 plants: 2

Class B grower  not more than 500 plants: 2

Class C grower  not more than 2,000 plants: 2

Marijuana retailer: 2

Secure transporter: 2

Safety Compliance establishment: 2

The Village of Morley will allow no more than two grower establishments in any combination, the ordinance states.

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Anyone operating a marijuana establishment must first obtain a permit from the village, as well as a state operating license for each establishment.

There will be an annual, nonrefundable application fee of $1,200 for each permit, intended to defray the administrative and enforcement costs associated with the establishments. Failure to maintain or display current licenses and permits will result in a violation of the ordinance and will be punishable by a $100 fine and/or a loss of the permit.

Mobile and drive-thru establishments will not be allowed. No establishment will be allowed within 500 feet of a school.

No marijuana, marijuana-infused product or paraphernalia shall be displayed or kept in a business so as to be visible from outside the licensed premises.

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Appropriate exhaust and ventilation equipment is required to control any odor resulting from the growing, cultivating or selling of marijuana plants.

Applications for permitting should be submitted to the village clerk. Permits can not be transferred from one owner to another.

The city of Big Rapids has allowed recreational adult use marijuana retail businesses since the legalization, opting not to limit the number of establishments within the city limits. In 2023, the city received more than $800,000 in marijuana excise tax disbursement from the state, based on 15 licenses in the city. Mecosta County also received a disbursement of more than $800,000.

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Jaragandi Song From Game Changer Out Now: Ram Charan emerged as one of the leading actors of the country today, thanks to SS Rajamouli's RRR. The actor's popularity went global after the movie's epic worldwide fame. Ram Charan turned 39 years old and celebrates his birthday. On the occasion, Ram Charan visited Tirupati to seek blessings from Venkateswara Swamy along with his wife Upasana Kamineni, and daughter Klin Kaara during the wee hours. Upasana's parents accompanied them.

Ram Charan, the global star will be seen in maverick filmmaker Shankar Shanmugam's upcoming political drama titled 'Game Changer.' The movie's shooting is nearing completion.

This is the first time for director Shankar to work on a story that is not his own. The movie Game Changer's story was written by another filmmaker Karthik Subbaraj. The movie marks the Telugu directorial debut of Shankar and the Tamil debut of Ram Charan as Game Changer is being shot as a Tamil and Telugu bilingual.

Game Changer Synopsis

In the movie, Ram Charan plays a dual role as a political leader and an IAS son. The IAS officer gets down to becoming a Game Changer in the political scenario where he fights the corrupt system and ensures genuine governance.

Jaragandi Song Out

The highly anticipated song from Game Changer, which stars Kiara Advani opposite Ram Charan for the second time, is finally out. The song was earlier leaked online several months ago. The fans have already an idea about what the song is going to be like. The official version of the Jaragandi song was released on the occasion. Check it out below.

https://youtu.be/45vS1-xtnp8?si=XsdTQuLHqli2S5I1

Game Changer Cast

Along with Ram Charan, the movie stars Kiara Advani, Anjali, SJ Suryah, Jayaram, Sunil, Srikanth Meka, Samuthirakani, Nassar, Naveen Chandra, and Rajeev Kanakala among others in key roles.

Game Changer Crew

Game Changer is a production venture of Dil Raju, who is funding the movie under his Sri Venkateswara Creations, in association with Sirish. The budget is about Rs 170 Crore. The movie's music and background score are composed by S Thaman. Tirru is cranking the camera and Shameer Muhammed is working on its editing.
New York, (March 8, 2024) - VanEck announced today that it plans to close and liquidate one of its VanEck ETFs.On March 8, 2024, the Board of Trustees of VanEck ETF Trust approved the liquidation and dissolution of the following fund (the "Fund"):ETF Name Ticker ExchangeVanEck Egypt Index ETF EGPT NYSE ArcaAs the sponsor of VanEck ETFs, VanEck continuously monitors and evaluates its ETF offerings across a number of factors, including performance, liquidity, assets under management, and investor interest, among others. The decision was made to liquidate the Fund based on an analysis of these factors and other operational considerations.Shareholders of the Fund may sell their shares on the Fund's listing exchange until market close on March 21, 2024 (transaction fees from their broker-dealer may be incurred). The Fund's shares will no longer trade on the listing exchange after market close on March 21, 2024, and the shares will subsequently be de-listed. Shareholders who continue to hold shares of the Fund on the Fund's liquidation date, which is expected to be on or about March 28, 2024, will receive a liquidating distribution of cash in the cash portion of their brokerage accounts equal to the amount of the net asset value of their shares. Proceeds from the liquidation are currently scheduled to be sent to shareholders on or about March 28, 2024. For tax purposes, shareholders will generally recognize a capital gain or loss equal to the amount received for their shares over their adjusted basis in such shares. The Fund will stop accepting creation orders from Authorized Participants on March 21, 2024.Shareholders who hold shares of the Fund may receive a final distribution of net income and capital gains earned by the Fund and not previously distributed prior to liquidation.The final tax status of distributions made by the Fund, including the liquidating distribution, will be provided to shareholders with the year-end tax reporting for the Fund (including any portion which may be treated as a return of capital for tax purposes, reducing a shareholder's basis in such shares).About VanEckVanEck has a history of looking beyond the financial markets to identify trends that are likely to create impactful investment opportunities. We were one of the first U.S. asset managers to offer investors access to international markets. This set the tone for the firm's drive to identify asset classes and trends - including gold investing in 1968, emerging markets in 1993, and exchange traded funds in 2006 - that subsequently shaped the investment management industry.Today, VanEck offers active and passive strategies with compelling exposures supported by well-designed investment processes. As of January 31, 2024, VanEck managed approximately $88.2B in assets, including mutual funds, ETFs and institutional accounts. The firms capabilities range from core investment opportunities to more specialized exposures to enhance portfolio diversification. Our actively managed strategies are fueled by in-depth, bottom-up research and security selection from portfolio managers with direct experience in the sectors and regions in which they invest. Investability, liquidity, diversity, and transparency are key to the experienced decision-making around market and index selection underlying VanEcks passive strategies.Since our founding in 1955, putting our clients interests first, in all market environments, has been at the heart of the firms mission.
- Participate in NEDO R&D Project as Rapidus subcontractor -

Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP, TOKYO: 7912) has begun development of a photomask manufacturing for 2-nanometer (10-9 meter) generation logic semiconductors that support Extreme Ultra-Violet (EUV) lithography, the cutting-edge process for semiconductor manufacturing.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240319148117/en/

Image of EUV lithography with pellicle, a protective film for the photomask (Photo: Business Wire)

DNP will also act as a subcontractor and provide the newly developed technology to Tokyo-based Rapidus Corporation (Rapidus). Rapidus is participating in the Research and Development Project of the Enhanced Infrastructures for Post-5G Information and Communication Systems instigated by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).

[Background]

We have strengthened our ability to manufacture cutting-edge semiconductors with high productivity and quality. And in 2016, DNP was the world's first merchant photomask manufacturer to introduce the multi-beam mask writing tool (MBMW).

In 2023, we completed the development of a photomask manufacturing process for 3-nm generation EUV lithography, and commenced development of 2-nm generation technology. In response to the need for further miniaturization, we will begin full-scale development of a photomask manufacturing process for 2-nm generation EUV lithography, including the operation of second and third multi-electron beam mask lithography systems in FY 2024.

DNP plans to bring online its second and third MBMW mask lithography systems in FY 2024, accelerating the development of photomasks for 2-nm generation EUV lithography.

DNP will act as a subcontractor on Development of Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology (Commissioned) by Rapidus as part of the NEDO's previously mentioned R&D project.

[Going Forward]

By FY 2025, DNP will complete the development of a manufacturing process for photomasks for 2-nm generation logic semiconductors that support EUV lithography. From FY 2026 onwards, we will push ahead with the establishment of production technology with a view to commencing mass production in FY 2027.

We have also begun development with an eye toward the 2-nm generation and beyond, and have signed an agreement with imec, a cutting-edge international research organization headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, to jointly develop next-generation EUV photomasks. DNP will continue to contribute to the growth of Japan's semiconductor industry by promoting development in collaboration with various partners within the framework of the international semiconductor industry.

More Details

About DNP

DNP was established in 1876, and has become a leading global company that leverages print-based solutions to engineer fresh business opportunities while protecting the environment and creating a more vibrant world for all. We capitalize on core competencies in microfabrication and precision coating technology to provide products for the display, electronic device, and optical film markets. We have also developed new products, such as vapor chamber and reflect array that offer next-generation communication solutions for more people-friendly information society.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240319148117/en/

Contacts:

Media contact

DNP: Yusuke Kitagawa, +81-3-6735-0101

kitagawa-y3@mail.dnp.co.jp


EQS Newswire / 27/03/2024 / 10:29 UTC+8

Deltrix Kazakhstan Expands in Central Asia Joins Hands with CAMCE to Deepen Regional Cooperation Along The "Belt and Road" [Hong Kong - 27 March 2024] Trio Industrial Electronics Group Limited ("Trio Group" or the "Group", Stock code: 1710.HK) subsidiary, Deltrix Kazakhstan (the "Company"), has shown strong business expansion momentum in Central Asia in just six months since its establishment. Following the establishment of a cooperative relationship with Sinooil, an overseas subsidiary of PetroChina, and the active promotion of the electric vehicle charging station project in Kazakhstan, Deltrix Kazakhstan recently joined hands with China CAMC Engineering Co., Ltd. ("CAMCE"), a well-known state-owned enterprise in China, to start an in-depth cooperation in the Olympic City project of the 2025 Asian Youth Games in Uzbekistan, which is also the Company's second strategic handshake with a Chinese state-owned enterprise in Central Asia market. As a state-owned enterprise directly under the central government affiliated to China National Machinery Industry Corporation (SINOMACH), CAMCE has undertaken a large number of landmark projects around the world with its profound technical capacity, excellent project execution and extensive international influence. The winning of the bid for the "Olympic City" construction project in Uzbekistan further highlights the core role of CAMCE under the "Belt and Road" initiative, as well as its key role as a central enterprise in promoting large-scale infrastructure cooperation between China and Uzbekistan and implementing the "Belt and Road" policy guidelines. Deltrix Kazakhstan, supported with its parent company's strong strength in the field of industrial electronics, is actively engaged in the construction of the new energy vehicle industry. The cooperation with CAMCE aims to provide first-class electric vehicle charging facility solutions for four parking lots in the "Olympic City" of Uzbekistan, and jointly promote the development of green travel and new energy infrastructure in countries along the "Belt and Road". This cooperation not only strengthens the strategic layout of Trio Group in the Central Asian market, but also demonstrates the competitiveness and influence of Hong Kong enterprises on the international stage. Mr. Cecil Wong, Chairman of Trio Industrial Electronics Group Limited said, "Through this cooperation agreement, the two companies will work together under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative to improve the level of new energy infrastructure in Uzbekistan and the entire Central Asian region, so as to promote industrial upgrading and green development in the region and achieve both economic and social benefits." About Trio Group Trio Industrial Electronics Group Limited is a manufacturer and distributor of advanced industrial electronic components and products in Hong Kong with 40 years of industry experience. It is also the first Hong Kong-based industrial electronic company awarded with the Industry 4.0 maturity certificate - Industry 4.01i level. The Group's major products include smart charger, electro-mechanical product and switch-mode power supplies, which are widely used in smart city system, medical and healthcare sector, as well as renewable energy field. The Group has built up good reputation and become a trusted supplier to various international well-known brands. Majority of its clients comes from Europe and US while some from Southeast Asia and PRC. In addition, the Group and its partner has developed its own EV charger solution - Deltrix since 2017, which has been launched in the European market in response to the global efforts to develop smart economies. For more details, please contact:

Skye Shum Investor Relations Manager

PR media:

DLK Advisory

pr@dlkadvisory.com



File: Deltrix Kazakhstan Expands in Central Asia Joins Hands with CAMCE to Deepen Regional Cooperation Along The "Belt and Road"



27/03/2024 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



Media archive at www.todayir.com


Relief Therapeutics Holding SA / Key word(s): AGMEGM

RELIEF THERAPEUTICS Holding SA to Hold Extraordinary General Meeting



27-March-2024 / 07:00 CET/CEST

Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





RELIEF THERAPEUTICS Holding SA to Hold Extraordinary General Meeting

Relief Therapeutics Calls Extraordinary General Meeting

Anticipated Board of Directors Overhaul GENEVA (MAR. 27, 2024) - RELIEF THERAPEUTICS Holding SA (SIX: RLF , OTCQB: RLFTF , RLFTY ) (Relief Therapeutics, or the Company), a biopharmaceutical company committed to delivering innovative treatment options for select specialty, unmet and rare diseases, today announced it has called an extraordinary general meeting (the EGM) of shareholders to be held at 03:00 p.m. CEST on April 26, 2024. The purpose of the meeting is to vote on several specific items: the election of three nominees to the Board of Directors (the Board); adjustments to the Company's share capital; matters related to the Board and Executive Committee compensation and discharge; and textual amendments to conform the Articles of Association to the new corporate law. We believe such measures enjoy support of the Company's largest shareholder and will enhance the Company's flexibility for future financial operations and business opportunities.



AGENDA Election of new members of the Board of Directors Shareholders will vote on the election of Mr. Peter de Svastich, Mr. Gregory Van Beek, and Mr. Thomas Elzinga as new members of the Board, for a term of office extending until completion of the next Annual General Meeting expected in June 2024. The three nominees are being proposed by Global Emerging Markets (GEM), the Company's largest shareholder with approximately 23% of the Company's outstanding share capital. Detailed presentations about the Board nominees can be found in the comprehensive agenda, available here . Ms. Patrice Jean and Mr. Thomas Plitz, current Board members, announced their intent to conclude their service upon the election of the Board nominees. Mr. Selvaraju, Chairman of the Board, and Ms. Lock, member of the Board and interim CEO of the Company, will continue their service. Capital Reduction by Reduction of Nominal Value The Board proposes to reduce the nominal value of the Company's share capital from CHF 56'163'348.00 to CHF 1'404'083.70 by reducing the nominal value of each share from CHF 4.00 to CHF 0.10. This technical adjustment comes as the share currently quotes at a price below its par value. This situation presents practical implications, including limiting the Company's ability to raise capital. The number of outstanding shares, as well as shareholders' financial and patrimonial rights, will not be affected by the reduction in par value. The modification of the share capital shall render the capital band provisions under the Articles of Association void. Reinstatement and Extension of the Capital Band Subject to and contingent upon the approval of the reduction of nominal value (second agenda item above), the Board proposes to reinstate and increase the Company's capital band to 7'000'000 shares and extend its duration until April 25, 2029, maintaining a capital band authorizing capital increases of not more than 50% of the ordinary share capital. The proposed capital band will allow the Board to maintain full flexibility in connection with possible future financing and business opportunities. Increase of the Conditional Share Capital Subject to and contingent upon the approval of the reduction of nominal value (second agenda item above), the Board proposes to increase the existing conditional share capital to 7'000'000 shares, maintaining a total conditional share capital of around but not more than 50% of the ordinary share capital. The allocation of the conditional capital is proposed as follows: 1'000'000 shares are designated for the potential granting of stock options to attract and retain key personnel, aligning their interests with those of the shareholders, and 6'000'000 shares are reserved for issuing of financial instruments convertible into shares in support of future financing and business opportunities. Votes on the compensation of the members of the Board of Directors and of the Executive Committee The Board proposes that the General Meeting approves a maximum amount of CHF 500'000 for compensation of the members of the Board for the period from the Annual General Meeting 2023 until the Annual General Meeting 2024, and a maximum amount of CHF 4'000'000 for the members of the Executive Committee for the financial year 2024. These compensation envelopes are inclusive of fixed and variable compensation, stock options, and other benefits. Discharge of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee The Board proposes that the General Meeting grants discharge to each and all members of the Board and of the Executive Committee, including former members, for the financial years 2022 and 2023. Pursuant to Swiss corporate law, discharge for the financial year 2023 will be limited to facts disclosed by the Company or known by the Company's shareholders as of the time of the meeting. Amendments to the Articles of Association related to the New Corporate Law The Board proposes textual amendments to article 23 para. 1 and article 25 para. 3 of the Articles of Association for alignment with the new corporate law. The formal notice of convocation to the EGM, including voting guidelines, will be sent on or around April 4, 2024, to registered shareholders. The comprehensive agenda, which includes further details on these motions, is available here .

ABOUT RELIEF THERAPEUTICS

Relief Therapeutics is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to advancing treatment paradigms and delivering improvements in efficacy, safety, and convenience to benefit the lives of patients living with select specialty and rare diseases. Relief Therapeutics' portfolio offers a balanced mix of marketed, revenue-generating products, our proprietary, globally patented Physiomimic and TEHCLO platform technologies and a targeted clinical development pipeline consisting of risk-mitigated assets focused in three core therapeutic areas: rare metabolic disorders, rare skin diseases and rare respiratory diseases. In addition, Relief Therapeutics is commercializing several legacy products via licensing and distribution partners. Relief Therapeutics' mission is to provide therapeutic relief to those suffering from rare diseases and is being advanced by an international team of well-established, experienced biopharma industry leaders with extensive research, development and rare disease expertise. Relief Therapeutics is headquartered in Geneva, with additional offices in Balerna, Switzerland, Offenbach am Main, Germany and Monza, Italy. Relief Therapeutics is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the symbol RLF and quoted in the U.S. on OTCQB under the symbols RLFTF and RLFTY. For more information, please visit our website www.relieftherapeutics.com or follow Relief Therapeutics on LinkedIn . CONTACT :

RELIEF THERAPEUTICS Holding SA

Jeremy Meinen

Chief Financial Officer

contact@relieftherapeutics.com DISCLAIMER

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, including its ability to achieve its corporate, development and commercial goals, and other factors which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Relief Therapeutics to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. A number of factors, including those described in Relief Therapeutics' filings with the SIX Swiss Exchange and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), could adversely affect Relief Therapeutics. Copies of Relief Therapeutics' filings with the SEC are available on the SEC EDGAR database at www.sec.gov . Relief Therapeutics does not undertake any obligation to update the information contained herein, which speaks only as of this date.

Additional features:





File: Ad hoc

End of Inside Information
Elliptic Labs (OSE: ELABS), a global AI software company and the world leader in AI Virtual Smart Sensors currently deployed in over 500 million devices, has signed a license agreement with Xiaomi, the third-largest smartphone manufacturer in the world. With this new contract, Xiaomi will be utilizing Elliptic Labs' AI Virtual Proximity Sensor INNER BEAUTYas its proximity detection solution on several future smartphones.

"With this new contract, our relationship with Xiaomi now spans over eight years across (57) shipped models," said Laila Danielsen, CEO of Elliptic Labs. "The collaboration between Elliptic Labs and Xiaomi has generated industry-defining innovation and design. From the original Mi Mix smartphone introducing a bezel-less full-screen concept to the just announced Civi 4 Pro continuing, this new contract means that Elliptic Labs and Xiaomi will continue this legacy for creating smarter, greener, and more human-friendly devices."

INNER BEAUTY is a registered trademark of Elliptic Labs.

AI Virtual Smart Sensor, AI Virtual Proximity Sensor, and AI Virtual Smart Sensor Platform are trademarks of Elliptic Labs.

All other trademarks or service marks are the responsibility of their respective organizations.

About Elliptic Labs

Elliptic Labs is a global enterprise targeting the smartphone, laptop, IoT, and automotive markets. Founded in 2006 as a research spin-off from Norway's Oslo University, the company's patented software uses AI, ultrasound and sensor fusion to deliver intuitive 3D gesture, proximity-, presence-, breathing- and heartbeat-detection experiences. Its scalable AI Virtual Smart Sensor Platform creates software-only sensors that are sustainable, human-friendly and already deployed in hundreds of millions of devices around the world. Elliptic Labs is the only software company that has delivered detection capabilities using AI software, ultrasound, and sensor fusion deployed at scale. The company joined the Oslo Brs main listing in March 2022.

Elliptic Labs is headquartered in Norway with presence in the USA, China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. Its technology and IP are developed in Norway and are solely owned by the company.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326081037/en/

Contacts:

PR Contacts:

Patrick Tsui

pr@ellipticlabs.com

Investor Relations:

Lars Holmy

Lars.Holmoy@ellipticlabs.com
Opening of 2 new branches in France in Q1 2024

Mon Courtier Energie Groupe has won several prestigious awards attesting to its dynamic growth and growing reputation

Charlie Evrard appointed President of the French energy brokers' union "Syndicat des Courtiers en Energie

Regulatory News:

Mon Courtier Energie Groupe (ISIN code: FR001400H3A0 Ticker: ALMCE), an energy broker for businesses, today announces significant advances that reinforce its leading position in the energy brokerage sector.

Guillaume Rouaud, CEO of Mon Courtier Energie Groupe, states: Backed by an ever-expanding network and growing recognition from the press and industry, Mon Courtier Energie Groupe reaffirms its unwavering commitment to working alongside companies to help them manage their energy strategy. I am also delighted to announce the appointment of Charlie Evrard, Chairman of our Board of Directors, as President of the Syndicat des Courtiers en Energie for the coming year. Together with our members, we intend to work to continue developing our profession to the highest standards of quality and ethics, and to be the benchmark contact for all stakeholders in our ecosystem, with the ultimate aim of providing the best energy solutions for French businesses."

Network expansion with two new branches in France

As part of its ongoing growth strategy, Mon Courtier Energie Groupe opened two new "licenced branches" in France in March 2024, in Angers and Clermont-Ferrand. These openings increase the company's proximity to businesses and strengthen its ability to offer its solutions throughout France. To date, the Mon Courtier Energie Groupe network comprises 32 branches, in line with the objective of more than 40 branches by the end of 2025.

Growing recognition through multiple awards

Mon Courtier Energie Groupe's financial performance and long-term commitment to its customers and employees have earned it several prestigious awards:

1stcompany from the New Aquitaine region in Les Echos newspaper's "Champions de la croissance 2024" growth ranking, 10th overall, 2nd in the energy sector and 1st company listed on the stock market

Financial Times "FT 1000" ranking of 1,000 fastest growing European companies: 158th overall, 15th in the energy sector and 10th among French companies

Ranked 7th in "Best Place to Work" amongFrenchcompanies with 50 to 250 employees

Best Franchise network in the "Support for a network of 11 to 50 franchisees" category, attheTrophees des meilleures franchises de France 2024 awards

These awards reflect the company's commitment to its employees, customers and partners, reinforcing its determination to continue on the path of excellence.

Charlie Evrard appointed President of the Syndicat des Courtiers en Energie

Charlie Evrard, Chairman of the Company's Board of Directors, has been elected Chairman of the Syndicat des Courtiers en Energie, replacing Thibaut Le Boulch, Director Brokerage France at World Kinect Energy Services, for the coming year. Created in early 2021 by 6 founding members (Capitole Energie, Enoptea, Mon Courtier Energie, Omnegy, Opera Energie and Place des Energie), the French energy brokers' union, which today has 8 members1, has the role of representing and developing the energy brokerage profession in France in compliance with its Code of Good Conduct. With this leading position within the union, Mon Courtier Energie Groupe is committed to promoting the profession, which has become increasingly strategic, and to working towards a more transparent, competitive and sustainable energy market.

About Mon Courtier Energie Groupe

Founded in Bordeaux in 2017, in just a few years Mon Courtier Energie Groupe has become a major player in energy brokerage and the leading French network on the B2B market. The Group's mission is to help companies with the global management of their energy budget in order to reduce or optimise their gas and/or electricity bill. Mon Courtier Energie Groupe's service offer comprises brokerage and advice regarding energy purchasing, the management and optimisation of contracts and energy transition guidance.

Mon Courtier Energie Groupe draws on the expertise of circa 180 people at its head offices and in "licenced" branches around the country.

For further information, please go to www.moncourtierenergie.com.

______________________

1 Capitole Energie, Dune Energie, Enoptea, Mon Courtier Energie, Omnegy, Opera Energie, Place des Energie and World Kinect Energy Services.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326240852/en/

Contacts:

Mon Courtier Energie Groupe

Guillaume Rouaud

CEO

investisseurs@moncourtierenergie.com

NewCap

Mathilde Bohin Dusan Oresansky

Investor Relations

mce@newcap.eu

Tel: +33 (0)1 44 71 94 94

NewCap

Nicolas Merigeau

Media Relations

mce@newcap.eu

Tel: +33 (0)1 44 71 94 98
Pratteln, Switzerland, March 27, 2024 - Santhera Pharmaceuticals (SIX: SANN) announces that the China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has accepted for priority review the new drug application (NDA) for vamorolone in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) which was submitted by Sperogenix Therapeutics, Santhera's specialized rare disease partner for China.

The Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) of the Chinese drug authority NMPA accepted the filing and granted priority review for vamorolone in DMD for patients aged 4 years and older which could, subject to a positive outcome, lead to approval by Q1 2025. Previously, the CDE included vamorolone for the treatment of DMD in the Breakthrough Therapy Program, which addresses serious diseases lacking effective treatments and includes drugs offering clear clinical advantages over existing treatments.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a rare neuromuscular disease affecting about 70,000 patients in China. Currently, there is no approved drug to treat DMD in China, leaving a high unmet medical need and therapeutic gap, especially considering the increasing diagnosis rates that enable more patients to access specialized treatment centers.

The NDA in China is supported by an extensive data package which led to approval of vamorolone in the U.S., EU and UK in late 2023/early 2024. Evidence for clinical efficacy and safety was based on data from the positive pivotal VISION-DMD study, showing superiority of vamorolone compared with placebo, and three open-label studies in which vamorolone was administered at doses between 2 and 6 mg/kg/day for a total treatment period of up to 30 months. In addition, the filing included data from three open-label studies in which vamorolone was administered at doses between 2 and 6 mg/kg/day for a total treatment period of up to 30 months [1-4]. The submission is further supported by a study which investigated the pharmacokinetic parameters of vamorolone in healthy adult Chinese volunteers.

According to the license agreement between the companies, first announced in January 2022, Sperogenix Therapeutics holds exclusive development and commercialization rights to vamorolone in DMD and all other rare disease indications for China. Upon commercialization, Sperogenix will pay Santhera sales-based milestones and double-digit percentage royalties on net sales.

About AGAMREE (vamorolone)

AGAMREE is a novel drug with a mode of action based on binding to the same receptor as glucocorticoids but modifying its downstream activity. Moreover, it is not a substrate for the 11--hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11-HSD) enzymes that may be responsible for local drug amplification and corticosteroid-associated toxicity in local tissues [1-4]. This mechanism has shown the potential to 'dissociate' efficacy from steroid safety concerns and therefore AGAMREE is positioned as a dissociative anti-inflammatory drug and an alternative to existing corticosteroids, the current standard of care in children and adolescent patients with DMD [1-4].

In the pivotal VISION-DMD study, AGAMREE met the primary endpoint Time to Stand (TTSTAND) velocity versus placebo (p=0.002) at 24 weeks of treatment and showed a good safety and tolerability profile [1, 4]. The most commonly reported side effects were cushingoid features, vomiting, weight increase and irritability. Side effects were generally of mild to moderate severity.

Currently available data show that AGAMREE, unlike corticosteroids, has no restriction of growth [5] and no negative effects on bone metabolism as demonstrated by normal bone formation and bone resorption serum markers [6].

AGAMREE), the European Union) and the United Kingdom.

References:

[1] Dang UJ et al..

[2] Guglieri M et al.

[3] Liu X et al.

[6] Hasham et al., MDA 2022 Poster presentation. Link.

About Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a rare inherited X-chromosome-linked disease, which almost exclusively affects males. DMD is characterized by inflammation which is present at birth or shortly thereafter. Inflammation leads to fibrosis of muscle and is clinically manifested by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. Major milestones in the disease are the loss of ambulation, the loss of self-feeding, the start of assisted ventilation, and the development of cardiomyopathy. DMD reduces life expectancy to before the fourth decade due to respiratory and/or cardiac failure. Corticosteroids are the current standard of care for the treatment of DMD.

About Sperogenix

Sperogenix Therapeutics is a platform company dedicated to developing and commercializing rare disease therapeutics in China. With prioritized therapeutic areas, such as neuromuscular diseases and inherited metabolic diseases, Sperogenix is dedicated to establishing an innovative commercial model tailored to the China rare disease field, in order to provide affordable and reliable products and services to Chinese physicians and patients. Sperogenix was founded in 2019 and is backed by biopharma industry blue chip investors including Lilly Asia Ventures, Morningside Ventures and Properico Ventures.

About Santhera

Santhera Pharmaceuticals.

AGAMREE is a trademark of Santhera Pharmaceuticals.

For further information please contact:

public-relations@santhera.comor

Eva Kalias, Head Investor Relations & Communications

Phone: +41 79 875 27 80

eva.kalias@santhera.com

Disclaimer / Forward-looking statements

This communication does not constitute an offer or invitation to subscribe for or purchase any securities of Santhera Pharmaceuticals Holding AG. This publication may contain certain forward-looking statements concerning the Company and its business. Such statements involve certain risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Readers should therefore not place undue reliance on these statements, particularly not in connection with any contract or investment decision. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

# # #





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WorldFirst has launched e-commerce growth solution in the UK to help SMEs overcome the challenges to cross-border e-commerce and facilitate expansion.

European countries are falling behind in e-commerce sales growth compared to nations in South America and Asia

Data shows SMEs are driving cross-border e-commerce with +50% of sellers being Gen Z or Millennials

WorldFirst, a one-stop digital payment and financial services platform for global businesses, especially SMEs in international trade, has launched an e-commerce growth solution to help UK SMEs trade globally. Through the solution accessible via the World Account, SMEs need just one account which has a simple set-up process to start cross-border e-commerce trade.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326208316/en/

Bruce Ding, General Manager of WorldFirst International Business, shares global e-commerce opportunities for UK SMEs at a WorldFirst partner conference in London, March 2024. (Photo: Business Wire)

The World Account brings down the costs associated with making an international transfer for SMEs. Typically these costs which span compliance, FX and payment operations account for 2-3% of the value of a transfer, but with the World Account this is reduced to less than 0.75%, according to WorldFirst industry analysis. This helps SMEs boost their margins to sustain long-term business growth.

Untapped Opportunity in Cross-border E-commerce

Global trade is expected to grow by 3.3% this year and retail e-commerce sales are expected to grow 8.8% over the same period. However, in the UK, the Office for National Statistics' most recent Annual Business Survey of Exporters and Importers revealed that just over 1 in every 10 UK businesses (11.4%) are involved in exporting; a number that had only risen by 0.7% in the preceding three years. When polled by a UK bank, 80% of businesses agreed that exporting is critical to their business' future.

Bruce Ding, General Manager of WorldFirst International Business, notes: "Against this backdrop, there's an excellent opportunity for many more UK SMEs to tap into the opportunities of international trade. Despite the complexities involved in cross-border e-commerce, with the support of external partners like us, we're seeing SMEs are increasingly optimistic about the opportunities presented by exporting overseas."

In 2022, the total cross-border e-commerce market in Europe, including the United Kingdom, amounted to a turnover of 265 billion (excluding travel). Of this total, 167 billion, or 63%, was generated by marketplaces. However, European countries are falling behind compared to those across South America and Asia, where multiple markets have seen significant growth in e-commerce sales, according to eMarketer.

Younger Generations Drive Cross-border E-commerce

WorldFirst finds that more than 50% of sellers using its cross-border e-commerce solution are Gen Z or Millennials, suggesting these generations of business leaders are more aware of global e-commerce opportunities.

Ding adds, "Consumers are increasingly buying directly through SMEs' websites, online marketplaces and social media platforms. This means people are purchasing from businesses located across the globe without even realising they're doing so. Younger business owners have spotted this opportunity to run their independent e-commerce stores or set up fronts on global e-marketplaces."

However, challenges, ranging from the complexity in international payment and foreign exchange, payment fraud, and hidden service charges, still put away aspiring business owners, threat survival of start-ups and undermine durability of existing businesses.

To help solve these challenges, UK SMEs can streamline international operations by partnering with external vendors. UK business owners can open a World Account within minutes to be able to trade like a local around the world. The account supports payment collection with 14 local or cross-border accounts and pay-out in more than 40 currencies to over 130 countries and regions.WorldFirst's extensive partnerships with key e-commerce platforms facilitate seamless cross-border transactions.

WorldFirst has a strong track record in driving growth in e-commerce for SMEs. WorldFirst is the top payment service firm by transaction volume for China-based e-commerce businesses which sell on international e-marketplaces, such as Amazon and Lazada. In January 2024, new customer acquisition by WorldFirst in South-east Asia increased 16 times and the overall transaction volume of its customers in the region grew by 90% on year.

About WorldFirst:

WorldFirst is meeting the needs of SMEs engaged in international trade to expand globally. This includes global collection, making payments, currency conversion, risk management, and supply chain financing to help SMEs reduce costs and improve turnover efficiency to generate more revenue, and quickly capture global business opportunities. WorldFirst, which employs AI and other cutting-edge technologies for risk control, prioritizes the safety and security of client funds above all else and has a leading fraud-prevention track record in the industry. WorldFirst has served one million customers worldwide and is connected to over 120 marketplaces. WorldFirst was founded in 2004 and joined Ant Group in 2019. To learn more about WorldFirst at https://www.worldfirst.com/.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326208316/en/

Contacts:

Media Enquiries:

media@worldfirst.com
Miami, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - With the new announcement, LinkDaddy underscores the importance of a diversified link-building strategy for building a strong online presence - and shows how this fully managed solution builds up anchor text ratios while delivering 150 Tier 1 links. While this can be spread across multiple links depending on the campaign, the agency recommends focusing on one link initially for more impactful results.

LinkDaddy Announces Keyword Backlinks Marketing Service For Higher SERP Ranking

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More information can be found at https://linkdaddy.com/keyword-backlinks/

LinkDaddy explains that every order uses targeted, localized content - for example, Google UK for British businesses, or Google USA for American companies - and is based 100% on the keywords provided by the client, with no generic anchor, improving relevancy and impact.

Recent marketing research shows that backlinks still play a key role in overall visibility. Data from Semrush reveals that nearly all top-ranking websites have at least one backlink, while 50% of sites without a single backlink never manage to reach the first page of search results.

LinkDaddy's Tier 1 service takes a multi-faceted approach to building high-quality backlinks. The agency curates 100 niche-relevant images and videos to accompany the content, and the client's Google Business Profile URL is embedded within every post, along with their Name, Address, and Phone (NAP) details, ensuring maximum visibility and online presence.

Keywords are also placed within the alt tags, content, and headings on each web page, all specifically designed to target the client's chosen keywords, which can be published across an authoritative blog network - with each post containing a single backlink.

To maximize the impact of each campaign, LinkDaddy uses a four-tier linking structure: the Tier 4 links point to Tier 3, Tier 3 links to Tier 2, and Tier 2 links to the Tier 1 links created for the client's website - totaling over 2,500 blog posts.

Tony Peacock, the agency founder, states: "Get high-quality backlinks that help you to increase organic traffic and improve search engine rankings. With our services, you can make your business more visible online with press releases, Google profile marketing, and social media management services."

Interested parties can learn more at https://linkdaddy.com/keyword-backlinks/

Contact Info:

Name: Tony Peacock

Email: tony@linkdaddy.com

Organization: LinkDaddy

Address: 1065 SW 8th St PMB 622, Miami, Florida 33130, United States

Website: https://linkdaddy.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203267

SOURCE: Plentisoft
State police said Benjamin Appleby, 29, of 1210 Bantam Road, admitted he strangled the victim, Alexandra "Ali" Kemp, who was found dead by her father on June 18, 2002.

Appleby, who also used the name Teddy Hoover, was hiding in Bantam from authorities and had an outstanding arrest warrant under his alias for charges of risk of injury to a minor, disorderly conduct and public indecency from a Woodbury incident in 1997.

Appleby waived his right to contest extradition in Waterbury Superior Court on Tuesday and is being held on $1 million bond until sheriffs from Johnson County in Kansas return him to the Midwestern state to face prosecution later this week for first-degree murder. Appleby may face the death penalty in Kansas.

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"It's a big load off of our shoulders," said Major Craig Hill of the Leawood (Kan.) Police Department. "We have three open homicides in our department and this is one everyone remembers because of the brutality of the crime, and the terror that everyone felt that there was a predator in their neighborhood."

Hill said Kemp's case drew a record number of telephone tips from the public, especially after the case was featured on Fox Television's "America's Most Wanted" and in advertisements in USA Today. In addition, the victim's father, Roger Kemp, set up a $50,000 reward announced on billboards in the Kansas City area.

"I never thought we wouldn't get this predator," Roger Kemp told The Associated Press. "And we got him. We wanted him and we wanted him bad. We say this is our guy."

On the day of her death, Kemp was working as an attendant at a neighborhood pool.

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"She was hoping to get out of work early that day to get ready for a date, and her brother came early to relieve her," Major Hill said. "But when he showed up she wasn't there, but all of her stuff was there.

"It was absolutely awful. Her brother called and called for her, and her Dad came to help and he found her in the pump house under some coverings."

Her death was caused by strangulation, the major said. The victim was beaten and her attack was consistent with sexual assault, he said.

Senior State's Attorney John Davenport said he expects to consult with the victim in the Woodbury case, but the state charges may be dropped if Appleby is brought to Kansas. He said the judge approved his motion to seal the local case to protect the identity of the victim.

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"The Kansas authorities did a great job following their leads. The police followed tips, including information from an old girlfriend that lived in Bantam, which led them here," he added.

Several weeks ago, Kansas police contacted local authorities about a possible suspect living in this area. As the investigation of Appleby took shape, two detectives from the Leawood Police Department came to Bantam to complete their two-year murder case alongside Western District detectives, said Sgt. Paul Vance, a spokesperson for the state Department of Public Safety. Authorities watched Appleby in the Bantam area, and reports also indicate DNA evidence was collected to compare against samples gathered from the murder scene.

"A lot of it was good ol' fashion police work with 21st century technology," Vance said. "Everyone did an outstanding job."

Police requested authority to seize some of Appleby's property.

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"He had an alias that we arrested him under, but he confirmed his name is Appleby," said Davenport.

The Borough of Bantam was rocked with the news that Appleby chose this area to hide from authorities more than 1,300 miles away from the scene of the high-profile murder.

"We were completely surprised," said Clayton Blick, who lives a few houses away from Appleby's residence on Bantam Road. "We didn't know him and never saw him, but we are happy he is gone."

Another neighbor of the accused, Douglas Arenz, also of Bantam Road, said he hoped if Appleby committed the crime the family of the victim would get justice.

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"Living in our town --- that's just crazy," Arenz said. "He deserves jail without the possibility of parole or to be executed. He is doing no good to society and no good to anybody's children here or there. I may be jaded, but I believe in an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth."
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - GoFluence, previously known as Modello, announces a significant milestone with its strategic rebranding and ambitious expansion into the Asia Pacific region, introducing its services to Asia Pacific Region. Since its establishment in 2018 as Malaysia's pioneering influencer marketing platform, GoFluence has been at the forefront of digital innovation. Today, it takes a significant leap forward, underpinned by its unique, proprietary algorithm that sets a new standard in influencer marketing. By analyzing vast amounts of data, the algorithm provides insights into influencer performance, audience demographics, and content effectiveness, offering a tailored approach that transcends traditional marketing strategies.

Strategic Growth Across Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia

This strategic expansion leverages GoFluence's technological edge to reshape the influencer marketing landscape across the Asia Pacific. By entering Taiwan and quickly extending its reach to Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, GoFluence aims to empower brands and influencers with unparalleled precision in campaign targeting and execution.

Commitment to Economic Empowerment Through Digital Innovation

GoFluence's expansion is driven by a commitment to economic empowerment and sustainable development, as evidenced by its recognition with the Sustainable Development Award for SDG Goal No. 9. The platform's innovative approach not only fosters economic growth and job creation across the Asia Pacific,0 but also supports SMEs and influencers in leveraging digital platforms for sustainable business growth.

From the Founder's Desk: Everyone's an Influencer

"As we step forward with GoFluence, we're tapping into something timeless-word-of-mouth marketing, the oldest way to spread the word, now powered by technology. Everyone has the potential to influence. GoFluence is built on this simple but powerful idea. It's more than a platform; it's a lifestyle that celebrates the impact of everyday conversations turned digital. Through GoFluence, we're not just connecting brands with influencers; we're empowering everyone to share their voice, make an impact, and truly influence. This is what we stand for - making everyone an influencer - rooted in the oldest form of trust: A recommendation from one person to another." - Same Tham, Founder & CEO, GoFluence



As the leading Influencer Marketing Self-Serve Platform, GoFluence is revolutionizing how influencers and brands collaborate through advanced digital solutions. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur and expanding throughout the Asia Pacific, GoFluence is dedicated to delivering impactful partnerships and advancing the digital economy with its proprietary algorithm. To learn more about how GoFluence is changing the influencer marketing landscape, visit http://www.gofluence.io/

GoFluence Launches Groundbreaking Expansion in Asia Pacific with a Unique Algorithm-Driven Approach

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Contact Info:

Name: Syaliza Manaf

Email: lizamanaf@gofluence.io

Organization: GoFluence

Website: http://www.gofluence.io/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203268

SOURCE: Plentisoft
2023 ANNUAL REPORT AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT

for the twelve months ended 31 December 2023

PERTH, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Centamin ("Centamin" or "the Company") (LSE:CEY)(TSX:CEE) announces the publication of its 2023 sustainability report in conjunction with the publication of the 2023 annual report. The reports are available on the Company's website www.centamin.com/investors/results-reports/. The Annual General Meeting will be on 21 May 2024, hosted in Jersey. The notice of AGM will be posted to shareholders on 9 April 2024 and associated documents filed at that time.

Centamin's sustainability report sets out the Company's framework for integrating sustainability into its business strategy and governance processes; and presents performance against sustainability targets at both a Group and asset-level. The sustainability priorities presented in the report remain clear and consistent, reflecting a continued focus on the most material topics to both Centamin and its stakeholders. These priorities include: environmental and social governance; safety, health and wellbeing; energy and climate; materials stewardship; socio-economic partnership; and, people and transformation. The report highlights the Company's achievements in each of these areas and the positive impact arising from its investments in Egypt and Cote d'Ivoire.

MARTIN HORGAN, CEOcommented: "We are pleased to align the publication of the 2023 annual report with the sustainability report for the first time, integrating sustainability metrics into our annual reporting cycle.

Our team takes pride in our responsible approach to mining, setting the benchmark for sustainability performance and good industry practice in Egypt. Enhancing the socio-economic contribution to our host countries is fundamental to Centamin's purpose. In 2023, Centamin distributed US$984 million in economic value, from operating costs and employee wages, to capital expenditure, as well as profit share and royalty payments. The vast majority of this value distribution remained in Egypt, by virtue of our partnership with the Egyptian government and our high level of national employment and procurement.

Through 2023 we continued to deliver against our sustainability targets with improved performance across our priority metrics. I am proud to report significant progress on numerous long-term programmes most notably: ISO 45001 certification at Sukari; a marked reduction in Group Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions; and an increased level of conformance of our tailings management system to the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management ("GISTM").

Looking ahead to 2024, the grid connection project will continue our recent success in delivering our near-term decarbonisation targets, while also taking costs out of the business. We will also continue to increase our conformance to the GISTM, targeting full conformance during 2025."

HIGHLIGHTS

 9.5 million hours worked at the Sukari Gold Mine ("Sukari") with zero lost time injuries ("LTI"). The Group lost time injury frequency rate ("LTIFR") of 0.08 was an 83% improvement on the 3-year trailing average. Total recordable injury frequency rate ("TRIFR") of 2.83, representing a 24% improvement on the 3-year trailing average.

 Sustained zero reportable environmental and social incidents across the Group and zero instances of regulatory non-compliance reported.

 A 7% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions compared to a 2021 base year, driven primarily by a 21.5 million litre reduction in diesel consumption during the first full year of solar power generation.

 Advanced development of carbon abatement projects in support of the 2030 Decarbonisation Roadmap (link to RNS here), notably a 50MWAC grid connection and 15MWAC solar plant expansion.

 Strong levels of local content with 95% of our workforce employed locally to the country of operation and 81% of the total Group procurement spend is with national suppliers.

 Sustained commitment to provide professional development opportunities that empower our employees to fulfil their potential. For the Group, 76% of senior and middle management roles are held by nationals; and at Sukari, 67% of employees were assessed to have met training requirements for progression to a higher level of competency.

 Systematic gap analysis complete against the requirements of the GISTM and roadmap in place to achieve full conformance during 2025.

SUSTAINABILITY PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

2023 2022 % ? HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLBEING LTIFR (1m hours worked) 0.08 0.08 0% TRIFR (1m hours worked) 2.83 2.61 8% Fatalities (workforce) 0 0 0% OUR PEOPLE Total workforce (employees and contractors) 4,902 5,211 (6%) Local workforce (% of total employed) 95% 96% (1%) Local leadership (% of total leadership team) 76% 76% 0% Workforce development (training hours per employee) 42.5 44.3 (4%) Female representation in the workforce (% of total employed) 3.4 2.7 27% SOCIAL & ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP Community spend (US$m) 0.8 0.6 35% Local procurement (% of total procurement spend) [1] 81% 77% 5% Community incidents (recordable category 4 & 5) 0 2 (100%) ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY Environmental incidents (recordable category 4 & 5) 0 0 0% Water reuse 38% 37% 3% Scope 1 & 2 GHG emissions (MtCO2-e) 0.45 0.50 (11%)

REPORTING STANDARDS

The sustainability report has been prepared in accordance with the GRI Sustainability Reporting Standards ("GRI") 'Core option', the GRI Mining and Metals Sector Supplement, the requirements of the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board ("SASB") for the metals and mining industry and the recommendations of the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures ("TCFD"). The report also provides a statement of our conformance to the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management ("GSITM").

ABOUT CENTAMIN

Centamin is an established gold producer, with premium listings on the London Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange. The Company's flagship asset is the Sukari Gold Mine ("Sukari"), Egypt's largest and first modern gold mine, as well as one of the world's largest producing mines. Since production began in 2009 Sukari has produced 5.7 million ounces of gold, and today has a projected mine life to 2034.

Through its large portfolio of exploration assets in Egypt and Cote d'Ivoire, Centamin is advancing an active pipeline of future growth prospects, including the Doropo project in Cote d'Ivoire, and over 3,000km2 of highly prospective exploration ground in Egypt's Arabian Nubian Shield.

Centamin practices responsible mining activities, recognising its responsibility to deliver operational and financial performance and create lasting mutual benefit for all stakeholders through good corporate citizenship.

FOR MORE INFORMATION please visit the website www.centamin.com or contact:

Centamin plc

Michael Stoner, Head of Corporate

investor@centaminplc.com FTI Consulting

Ben Brewerton / Sara Powell / Nick Hennis

+442037271000

centamin@fticonsulting.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This announcement (including information incorporated by reference) contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" under applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including statements with respect to future financial or operating performance. Such statements include "future-oriented financial information" or "financial outlook" with respect to prospective financial performance, financial position, EBITDA, cash flows and other financial metrics that are based on assumptions about future economic conditions and courses of action. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes", "expects", "expected", "budgeted", "forecasts" and "anticipates" and include production outlook, operating schedules, production profiles, expansion and expansion plans, efficiency gains, production and cost guidance, capital expenditure outlook, exploration spend and other mine plans. Although Centamin believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, Centamin can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are prospective in nature and are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections of the management of Centamin about future events and are therefore subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. In addition, there are a number of factors that could cause actual results, performance, achievements or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements; the risks and uncertainties associated with direct or indirect impacts of COVID-19 or other pandemic, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; the results of exploration activities and feasibility studies; assumptions in economic evaluations which prove to be inaccurate; currency fluctuations; changes in project parameters; future prices of gold and other metals; possible variations of ore grade or recovery rates; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; climatic conditions; political instability; decisions and regulatory changes enacted by governmental authorities; delays in obtaining approvals or financing or completing development or construction activities; and discovery of archaeological ruins. Financial outlook and future-ordinated financial information contained in this news release is based on assumptions about future events, including economic conditions and proposed courses of action, based on management's assessment of the relevant information currently available. Readers are cautioned that any such financial outlook or future-ordinated financial information contained or referenced herein may not be appropriate and should not be used for purposes other than those for which it is disclosed herein. The Company and its management believe that the prospective financial information has been prepared on a reasonable basis, reflecting management's best estimates and judgments at the date hereof, and represent, to the best of management's knowledge and opinion, the Company's expected course of action. However, because this information is highly subjective, it should not be relied on as necessarily indicative of future results. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information or statements, particularly in light of the current economic climate and the significant volatility, the risks and uncertainties associated with the direct and indirect impacts of COVID-19. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this announcement and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

LEI: 213800PDI9G7OUKLPV84

Company No: 109180

[1] Local procurement spend for 2022 has been corrected following revision to the accounting method in 2023.

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: Centamin PLC

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Convening of the Ordinary General Meeting of shareholders of 26 april 2024

The shareholders are invited to attend the ordinary general meeting, which will take place on Friday 26th of April 2024 at 11:00AM, at the registered seat in 1070 Brussels (Anderlecht), Allee de la Recherche 60.

The board of directors has decided not to organize a remote general meeting in accordance with article 7:137, 1 of the Companies and Associations Code.

Agenda of the ordinary general meeting of 26 april 2024

1. Report of the board of directors on the financial year ended 31 December 2023

Commentary : the board report discusses all the items referred to in article 3:6 of the Company and Associations code.

2. Remunerations report on the financial year ended 31 December 2023

Proposed decision : approve the remunerations report on the financial year ended 31 December 2023.



3. Statutory auditor's report on the annual accounts as at 31 December 2023

Commentary : this report has been prepared in accordance with the articles 3:74 and 3:75 of the Company and Associations code.



4. Annual accounts as at 31 December 2023 - Result appropriation

Proposed decision : approve the annual accounts as at 31 December 2023, including the distribution of a gross dividend of  0,97 per share.



5. Discharge of the directors for the financial year ended 31 December 2023

Proposed decision : discharge each of the directors for the execution of their respective mandate during the financial year ended 31 December 2023.



6. Discharge of the statutory auditor for the financial year ended 31 December 2023

Proposed decision : discharge the statutory auditor for the execution of his mandate during the financial year ended 31 December 2023.

7. Board of Directors - Renewal - Resignation - Appointment

a) Proposed decision : register the resignation as a director of AVO Management BV, represented by Mrs Annick Van Overstraeten, with effect from the date of this meeting;

b) Proposed decision : approve the appointment as a director of Mrs Sandrine Flory for a period of four years ending at the end of the ordinary general meeting to be held in 2028

c) Proposed decision : confirm that Mrs Sandrine Flory is appointed as independent director in accordance with the independence criteria set out in the Company and Associatio code and the 2020 Governance code;

d) Proposed decision : register the resignation as a director of Biofina SRL, duly represented by Mrs Fiona du Monceau, with effect as from 16 March 2024;

e) Proposed decision : approve the appointment as a director of Bergendal & Co SRL, represented by Mr Tanguy du Monceau, for a period of four years ending at the end of the ordinary general meeting to be held in 2028

f) Proposed decision : register the resignation of EJ Management SRL, represented by Mr Edouard Janssen, as a director with effect as from the date of the ordinary general meeting of 26 April 2024.

8. Appointment of the statutory auditor

Proposed decision : based on the proposal of the Board of Directors, exercising the powers of an audit committee, appoint as statutory auditor BDO BEDRIJFSREVISOREN-BDO REVISEURS D'ENTREPRISES S.C.R.L. (N d'entreprise 0431.088.289) whose head office is located Ave Da Vincilaan 9, 1930 Zaventem, represented by Mr Sebastien Jaspar, auditor, for a period of three years which will end at the end of the ordinary general meeting to be held in 2027, and set the annual remuneration for the exercise of this mandate at an amount of  14,625 (excluding VAT), this amount being reviewed annually, starting from financial year 2025, to take account of the evolution of the consumer price index.



Formalities to attend the general meeting

To attend or be represented at the general meeting and exercise her/his voting right, a shareholder must have carried out the accounting registration of his/her shares on the fourteenth day before the general meeting at 24:00h Belgian time (being Friday 12 April 2024, the "Registration Date"), either by registering them in the Company's register of nominative shares, or by registering them in the accounts of a licensed account holder or a settlement institution, the number of shares held on the day of the meetings being disregarded.

The shareholder must also inform the Company of her/his desire to attend the general meeting. A holder of nominative shares should send to the Company the duly signed attendance notice, this form being appended to the invitation to attend. A holder of dematerialized shares should send to the Company the attestations issued by the licensed account holder or by the settlement institution, certifying the number of shares that are registered in the accounts of the account holder or settlement institution on the name of the shareholder at the Registration Date and for which the shareholder has declared he/she wants to participate in the general meeting. The attendance notices or the attestations should reach the Company, at the e-mail address investorrelations@financiere-tubize.be, no later than six days before the date of the general meeting (being Saturday 20 April 2024).

Voting by proxy

The board of directors encourages shareholders to be represented by a proxy, in accordance with the provisions of articles 7:142 to 7:145 of the Companies and Associations Code.

The proxies must be executed in writing on the basis of the form drawn up by the board of directors and must be signed by the shareholder. For the nominative shareholders, the form is appended to their invitation to attend. Holders of dematerialized shares can retrieve the form from the Company's website www.financiere-tubize.be. The proxy must reach the Company, at the e-mail address investorrelations@financiere-tubize.be, no later than six days before the date of the meeting (being Saturday 20 April 2024).

Adding items to the agenda and submitting proposed decisions

One or more shareholders collectively holding at least 3% of the share capital may request that items be added to the agenda of the meetings and submit proposed decisions concerning original and/or added matters on the agenda.

Requests should be made in writing and include the text of items to be added with corresponding proposed decisions or of proposed decisions relating to original agenda items. They should state the e-mail address to which the Company can send an acknowledgement of receipt within 48 hours. Requests should reach the Company no later than twenty-two days before the date of the general meeting.

Shareholders intending to exercise this right should prove, on the date of their request, that they hold at least 3% of the share capital, either through a certificate stating that the corresponding shares are registered in the Company's register of nominative shares, or through a certificate drawn up by a licensed account holder or settlement institution certifying the number of corresponding dematerialised shares registered in accounts on the name of the shareholders. They should also perform the accounting registration for at least 3% of the capital.

If shareholders exercise this right, the Company shall publish a supplemented agenda for the general meetings according to the same terms as the original agenda and no later than fifteen days before the date of the general meetings (being Thursday 11 April 2024). Simultaneously, the Company will make amended forms for voting by proxy available to its shareholders through its website.

Right to ask questions to the directors and the auditor

Each shareholder who has satisfied the formalities for admission to the meeting has the right, as from the publication of the invitation to attend, to ask questions in writing about the directors' and the statutory auditor's reports, as well as about any other items indicated on the agenda of the general meeting, to which will be responded, as the case may be, by the directors or the statutory auditor, as long as the disclosure of data or facts does not harm the Company's commercial interests and does not violate the confidentiality agreements binding the Company, its directors or the statutory auditor. These questions should be sent electronically to investorrelations@financiere-tubize.be, no later than the sixth day before the date of the meeting (being Saturday 20 April 2024).

Information on the website

The following information can be consulted on the Company's website www.financiere-tubize.be:

Present convening

Proxy form

Total number of shares and voting rights at the date of the present convening

All documents intended to be presented to the ordinary general meeting Annual accounts Management report of the board of directors Remuneration report Auditor's report on the annual accounts Annual financial report Profile of the proposed new director.



Holders of nominative shares receive a copy of all documents together with the invitation to attend. Other shareholders may obtain a free copy of the documents by sending a request to investorrelations@financiere-tubize.be.

On the day of the assembly, share owners and proxy holders will have to prove their identity and representatives of corporations will have to evidence their power. Therefore, it is highly recommended to register at 10:00AM.

The board of directors
Largely improved profitability: EBE multiplied by 4 to 4.1 million (1.1 million in 2022) and operating income of 1.7 million (0.2 million in 2022) for an annual net income of 1.8 million (55 thousand in 2022), which represents 10% of the 2023 revenue.

Revenue up 40% to 18.2 million, driven by international expansion, particularly in Europe and North America.

A gross margin rate strongly progressing to 57% (51% in 2022).

A sound financial structure, which allows to continue to finance growth, with a cash position of 3.7 million at December 31, 2023.

For 2024, Arcure confirms its growth, aiming a revenue target of at least 20 million ahead of the forecasts announced in 2021, combined with a continued improvement in operating income.

Arcure, a specialist in artificial intelligence for improving safety and productivity in industry, today announces its 2023 annual results. The financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023 were approved by the Board of Directors on March 26, 2024. The audit procedures on the annual financial statements have been carried out and the statutory auditors' report is in the process of being issued.

SUMMARY OF 2023 RESULTS

In thousand euros 2023 2022 Change () Revenue 18,200 13,035 5,165 Gross margin1 10,380 6,641 3,739 Gross margin rate 57% 51% n/a Other operating income 2 2,865 3,891 (1,026) EBE3 4,125 1,091 3,034 Amortization and provisions / Net of reversals 4 (2,416) (877) 1,539 EBE - Capitalized production 2,082 (914) 2,996 Operating profit 1,709 214 1,495 Net financial income / (expense) (593) (259) (334) Net non recurring income / (expense) 190 100 90 Income tax 494 494 Net income 1,801 55 1,746

Franck GAYRAUD, Chairman and co-founder of Arcure, welcomes these very good results: "With the 2023 financial year, Arcure now demonstrates a solid profitability, with EBE increased this year to more than 4 million, more than 22% of revenue, and a net profit of nearly 10% of the revenue. This level of profitability puts us in line with the best standards in the field. It also validates the effectiveness of our business model, which is based on a high value-added commercial offer combined with a controlled cost structure. The financial position at the end of the 2023 financial year is strengthened, with a cash position of 3.7 million, and a positive operational cash flow which allows us to finance our growth. For the coming years, we intend to further improve our profitability, amplifying our business development and expanding our offering to meet the growing needs of our customers. On the strength of these very good results, Arcure is now perfectly positioned to achieve its ambition to become the leading technological and economic player in the buoyant market for the digitalization of vehicles and industrial sites."

Jean-Gabriel POINTEAU, Chief Executive Officer at Arcure, adds: "These results for 2023 validate our development model and reinforce our strategic vision for the future. Today, as a technological and commercial leader for the solutions improving the safety and productivity of industrial vehicles, we want to accentuate our lead and bring more and more innovative and efficient solutions to industrial players. After the success of pedestrian detection, we have already expanded our high-tech offering with new features, around fleet management for example, which will accelerate the digitalization of industrial vehicles. We intend to accentuate this dynamic of innovation, by refocusing our efforts on our core expertise and our added value: software and artificial intelligence."

SOLID RESULTS AND PROFITABILITY

Along with an increase in revenue, Arcure also recorded increased profitability in 2023. EBE came to 4.1 million, compared to 1.1 million in 2022, with personnel expenses contained at 6.2 million in 2023 (compared to 5.8 million in 2022). The commercial success associated with a controlled cost structure validates the performance of the business model.

Operating income was 1.709 million, compared with 0.2 million in 2022. The financial result amounted to (0.6) million, compared to (0.2) million in 2022. The Company generated a sharp increase in net income to 1.8 million, after a first profitable year in 2022 (50 K), which underlines the strength of its growth model.

The gross margin rate improved from 51% in 2022 to 57%, in a context of sustained growth. This growth is partly explained by the commercial ramp-up of the Blaxtair Origin in 2023, which has better margins compared to the previous generations of Blaxtair.

A SOUND FINANCIAL STRUCTURE

The level of profitability recorded in 2023 now allows the Company to finance the growth of the business, in particular the increase in working capital. Net cash flows related to investment were under control at (2.2 million) compared to (2.5 million) in 2022. The company continued its deleveraging by reducing its bank debt by 24% in 2023, repaying 1.3 million in loans. As of December 31, 2023, the cash position amounted to 3.7 million. The Company's shareholders' equity increased to 6.8 million, compared with 5.1 million at the end of 2022.

40% INCREASE IN REVENUE, DRIVEN BY INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION

2023 revenue at Arcure hit a historic 18.2 million, up 40% compared to 2022, ahead of the target of 20 million in 2024. This dynamic growth over the year was mainly driven by excellent sales performance for Blaxtair Origin, which has been on the market since the end of 2022.

The sales efforts have allowed to increase sales volumes in all sales channels. Business has been driven by strong sales trends with industrial key account customers who are equipping their fleets with Blaxtair solutions. The share of sales to machinery manufacturers who offer Blaxtair equipment in factory settings (Original Equipment Manufacturers - OEMs) on new automobiles accounted for 20% of our revenue, up from 26%.

The 2023 financial year accentuates Arcure's internationalization, with 84% of revenue now generated outside France (72.6% in 2022). The European region achieved major growth, spread out over an increasing diversity of countries, particularly in Spain, the United Kingdom, Italy and Luxembourg. North America (25% of revenue) achieved 22% growth. Business in the Asia-Pacific region (4% of revenues) grew by 40%.

GROWTH PROSPECTS CONFIRMED FOR 2024

At the end of 2023, the Company is ideally positioned in a high-potential market where the need for digitalization of forklifts and construction machinery to strengthen safety and productivity is increasingly significant.

Arcure continues to roll out its product roadmap with new features and high value-added embedded software solutions. The Company has announced the launch in March 2024 of its latest generation of Blaxtair, a technological core of the digitalization of industrial vehicles with connected functionalities for safety and productivity. This evolution of the product mix will increase the number of Blaxtair installed per machine and - thanks to the connected platform and its associated services - generate a growing share of recurring revenue.

Growth in activity will also be supported by solid demand from major industrial accounts and machine manufacturers, in France and abroad. Intensified discussions with vehicle manufacturers (OEMs), in particular, are expected to be a growth driver in 2025 and beyond.

The very good results recorded in 2023, the technological innovation, the international commercial establishment and the detailed knowledge of the needs of industrial players are all assets to support Arcure's growth momentum in the years to come.

Next meeting:

Webcast in English for international investors, March 27, 2024 at 5 p.m, CET.

Applications: investisseurs@arcure.net

Webcast in French for individual investors, March 27, 2024 at 6 p.m, CET.

Applications: investisseurs@arcure.net

Next publication:

H1 2024 revenue, July 17, 2024

About Arcure

Founded in 2009, Arcure is an international group, specialized in artificial intelligence applied to perception technology for the industry, which develops and markets solutions to enhance the autonomy and safety of industrial machines and robots.

In particular, Arcure has developed Blaxtair, a state-of-the-art intelligent pedestrian detection solution, improving safety around commercial vehicles in many contexts, including the most difficult environments. Already sold in around several thousands of units in more than 50 countries, Blaxtair is used by the world's leading manufacturers and is gradually being adopted by machine manufacturers.

Arcure is headquartered in the Paris area, has a subsidiary in the United States and has sales offices in Germany, Spain and Asia.

Arcure is listed on Euronext Growth (ISIN: FR0013398997 - Ticker: ALCUR). The group recorded an annual 18.2 million revenue in 2023 (84% of which was generated outside France), growing 40% compared to 2022.

More information at www.blaxtair.com

CONTACT

INVESTORS RELATIONS

Marc Delaunay

investisseurs@arcure.net MEDIA RELATIONS

Marc Delaunay

marc.delaunay@blaxtair.com

1 Gross margin = revenue - costs of sold services and products.

2 Including capitalized production for 2,005 thousand in 2022 and 2,043 thousand in 2023, as well as the Research tax credit for 763 thousand in 2022 and 752 thousand in 2023.

3 EBE (Gross operating surplus) corresponds to the Operating Profit restated of depreciation and provisions net of reversals of amortization.

4 The first half of 2022 was not subject to R&D depreciation, which explains the small amount in 2022. (gross operating surplus

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Der kostenlose Dividenden-Report zeigt ganz genau, wo Sie in diesem Jahr zuschlagen konnen. Das sind die Favoriten von Borsenprofi Dr. Dennis Riedl

ZURICH (dpa-AFX) - UBS Group AG and Apollo have entered into an agreement pursuant to which ATLAS SP has concluded its Transition Services Agreement with UBS. This is the final step in carve-out of former Credit Suisse Securitized Products business, Atlas SP. UBS will close out Investment Management Agreement with Atlas. Also, Apollo will purchase $8 billion of senior secured financing facilities from UBS. UBS Group expects to recognize a net gain in the first quarter of around $0.3 billion from the conclusion of these agreements and the assignment of the senior secured financing facilities. Credit Suisse AG is expected to recognize a net loss of around $0.9 billion. 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.
Corpay1 (NYSE: CPAY), a global leader in corporate payments, is pleased to announce that Corpay's Cross-Border business has appointed private equity and fund administration industry veteran Oliver (Oli) Morris as their new Head of Institutional Fund Services, EMEA. In this newly created role, Oli will be accountable for collaborating with the executive and regional team members to develop and implement a comprehensive go to market strategy, along with establishing the operational and product roadmaps to effectively service and grow Corpay's business within the institutional fund services segment across the EMEA region.

With over 18 years' experience, Oli is a dynamic, well-regarded and experienced leader within the private equity and fund administration sectors across EMEA. Oli joins Corpay from TDR Capital, an upper mid-market Private Equity firm with over 15B in total fund assets under management, where he held the role as Head of Fund Operations. Prior to this, he was the Global Head of Private Equity at Sanne, a premier global fund administrator which was acquired by the Apex Group in 2022.

"I am thrilled to have a professional of Oli's calibre joining us in this key role. His wealth of leadership experience across both the private equity and fund administration industries is perfectly aligned with Corpay's needs as we build out this exciting new business across the UK and European markets," said Andrew Shortreid, SVP Global Institutional Sales, Corpay Cross-Border. "With global fundraising by alternative strategies continuing to exceed US$1 trillion per year, and traditional financial institutions facing numerous constraints to serving this market effectively, we see a tremendous opportunity to expand Corpay's institutional offering into the broad area of fund services. With Oli heading up this business line for us, I am confident that Corpay will attract some of the top talent and customers from across the region."

"I am very excited to be joining the Corpay team at this major milestone to continue the expansion into the institutional and funds sector," said Oliver Morris, Head of Institutional Fund Services, EMEA, Corpay Cross-Border. "Whilst the market continues to deal with the changing global landscape of financial institutions, Corpay is committed to building new and innovative solutions to enable effective and efficient global capital flows in partnership with asset managers and their service providers."

About Corpay

Corpay (NYSE: CPAY) is a global S&P500 corporate payments company that helps businesses and consumers pay expenses in a simple, controlled manner. Corpay's suite of modern payment solutions help its customers better manage vehicle-related expenses (such as fueling and parking), travel expenses (e.g. hotel bookings) and payables (e.g. paying vendors). This results in our customers saving time and ultimately spending less.

Global businesses and institutions trust our Corpay Cross-Border solutions to power their international payments, execute plans to manage their currency risk and support their growth around the world. We aim to deliver unmatched service and expertise with respect to moving money globally.

Corpay Payments made easy. To learn more visit www.corpay.com.

1"Corpay" in this document primarily refers to the Cross-Border Division of Corpay https://www.corpay.com/cross-border; a full listing of the companies that are part of the Corpay brand is available here: https://www.corpay.com/compliance.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327510956/en/

Contacts:

Corpay Contact:

Brad Loder

VP, Cross-Border Marketing

+1 (647) 627-6635

brad.loder@corpay.com
LONDON, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Redgrave, a leading executive search, interim, and leadership advisory firm supporting business owners, families, investors, and leaders, is proud to announce its partnership with Family Business UK (FBUK), the largest organisation in the UK dedicated solely to supporting, representing and championing family business.

Redgrave and FBUK recognise the immense contribution family businesses make to the UK's economic landscape and beyond. They share a deep understanding of the specific challenges faced by family-owned enterprises, including navigating leadership transitions, strategic decision-making, and ensuring a smooth generational handover. Through this partnership, Redgrave will leverage its expertise to provide tailored support for the family business community. This includes talent acquisition, leadership development, interim support, and governance across generations. This collaboration signifies a further step in strengthening the support framework for family businesses, helping ensure these businesses flourish for generations to come.

"Our partnership with FBUK highlights our commitment to empowering family businesses through their unique challenges and opportunities. Driven by a dedication to partnering with family businesses, we advocate for their business with the same passion they have. Whether it's navigating generational transitions, leadership assessments or supporting family businesses in times of immediate need for talent, Redgrave's expertise ensures every decision aligns seamlessly with both the family's vision and the business's needs", shares David Angel, Managing Partner at Redgrave.

Neil Davy, CEO of FBUK added: "We are delighted to welcome Redgrave as our latest Corporate Partner, further enriching our network of leading service providers working to support family businesses in navigating family business governance, family dynamics, and multi-generational change and succession."

"Redgrave's approach and track record in helping family business identify and attract leading talent will be invaluable to the growing body of family businesses, who are supported and represented by FBUK."

About Redgrave

Redgrave is a global executive search, interim, and leadership advisory firm with a relentless passion for people.

We help leaders shape the future of businesses by delivering solutions that complement their culture and ambition.

Redgrave connects organisations with exceptional talent to drive their growth and success. The firm offers a range of services, including search, executive assessment, executive interim, and talent consulting. Find out more at https://redgravesearch.com.

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A ground-breaking new poll of 10,000 Brits examines social isolation and how to foster a sense of belonging in the UK

Women aged 18-24 report feeling lonely more than the general population (51% vs. 29%), as do renters (40% vs. 29%)

One in three (33%) older people reported that they don't feel they belong strongly to their neighbourhood

14% of people with a disability have no close friends while one in five feel lonely often or always

London, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

The UK's first comprehensive survey of British people's sense of Belonging, polling 10,000 people from every corner of the country, has today been published by the Belonging Forum.

Young women in the 18-24 age bracket, people living in rented accommodation, and those living with disabilities were revealed as the groups who feel a comparative lack of belonging.

An alarming number of people aged 65 and over in the UK report a critical lack of social support, including a sense of belonging to their neighbourhood and having no close friends.

The Belonging Forumwill be making all the findings of this unique poll public and is calling for grassroots action to address the "crisis of belonging".

The Belonging Forum is also working on a Charter for Belonging, a 'living document' which will identify a small number of key initiatives targeted at the most impacted groups. It wants to hear ideas from the public and to convene and work with charities, businesses, and government to help deliver change.

The intention is for these initiatives to be highly practical, of low or no cost, and to give way to other initiatives once they have been achieved. This will ensure the Charter for Belonging is able to respond to specific needs and is fully aligned with changing events.

The Belonging Forum, an initiative from the Samuel Centre for Social Connectedness, and its work is grounded in the principle that there are four pillars of Belonging - connections between People; connection to Place, a positive relationship with Power, and an understanding that we all need to be driven by Purpose.

Kim Samuel, Founder of the Belonging Forum and author of On Belonging: Finding Connection in an Age of Isolation, said:

"This ground-breaking study shows that older people and the young face different-but equally troubling-problems.

"Loneliness is worryingly common among the prior and the latter often feel unsettled and unsatisfied with their friendships.

"I believe online bullying and unrealistic expectations drawn from social media do a lot of harm to the young. And older people need the energy and vitality of younger people in their lives.

"A part of this is that too often nowadays, different generations do not interact, but they naturally complement each other, can teach each other, and help fulfil each other's needs.

"We also need to start a debate about targeted ways to help those in rented accommodation and young women feel like they belong. These two groups, according to our data, disproportionately feel the effects of social isolation and loneliness.

"Belonging is our birthright. It's also a helpful framework for building a more resilient society.

"If you work with a charity or community group that wants to work with us-please reach out."

Just 43% of renters (including private, local authority, and housing authority) say they know their neighbours, compared to 69% of those who own their homes outright.

Private renters (excluding local and house authority renters) are more likely to say they are dissatisfied with their friendships (65% vs. 76%) and are less likely to report 'feeling happy yesterday' (62% vs. 75% of those who own outright).

Meanwhile, 30% of all renters felt unsafe walking home in the dark compared to 20% of those who own their home; 40% felt lonely compared to 29% of homeowners; and 65% of renters said they were satisfied with their friendships compared to 76% of outright homeowners.

Meanwhile, a significant 40% of women aged 18-24 report feeling unsafe walking alone at night compared to just 15% of men overall. Furthermore, 72% of men aged 18-24 report being satisfied with their lives, with this dropping to 64% of women in the same age bracket.

Young women were also less likely to share the same values as their neighbours, with 7% less reporting this than men of the same age range.

The poll also revealed 45% of people with a disability reported feeling anxious yesterday, compared to 36% of the general population, and 51% felt satisfied overall with their life compared to the general population.

A quarter reported never going to a pub, bar, or coffee shop with their friends and only 63% of those with a disability feel safe walking on their own near their home after dark compared to 72% of the general population.

Additionally of concern, one in three (33%) older people reported that they don't feel they belong strongly to their neighbourhood. One in ten (11%) reported having no close friends, compared with 4% for people aged 18-24.

ENDS

About the Belonging Forum

The Belonging Forum was created by the Samuel Centre for Social Connectedness, a global organisation that has been working with partners around the world to understand and address social isolation and belonging since 2017.

The Belonging Forum is focused on convening partners and the public to generate simple, practical solutions that have cross-party support in the UK.

It argues that if belonging is enshrined in policy and decision-making, social problems associated with isolation-such as poor mental health, apathy, and poorly integrated communities - will be reduced.

It seeks to persuade policy makers and regulators to act and convene charities, not replicate their work, and inspire grassroots action.

The aim is to use this landmark research to provide the basis for a Charter for Belonging which will outline simple, proven initiatives communities can implement to address social isolation and build belonging in key groups, including students, younger women, renters, older people and people with disabilities.

The polling can be found in a report - The Belonging Barometer- here (https://assets.nationbuilder.com/pagefieldbelonging/pages/16/attachments/original/1711024150/KS_report.pdf?1711024150).

Notes to editors:
European credit specialist, AlbaCore Capital Group ("AlbaCore"), is pleased to announce the appointment of Davide Chiesa as the firm's Head of Research, and Sheharyar Malik as a Director in the Investment Team.

In a newly created role on the investment team, Davide will be responsible for leading AlbaCore's expanding research function, helping to inform the firm's investment processes. He will be responsible for incorporating a sector-specific focus into the firm's fundamental, bottom-up approach to credit selection. Davide will lead a team of analysts who supports AlbaCore's offering across private and opportunistic credit strategies as well as CLOs and structured credit.

To bolster the investment team's credit research capability, Sheharyar Malik will join Davide with a focus on fundamental analysis, relative value, and alpha generation.

"Strong research capabilities are essential to carry out our flexible mandate in a fast-moving market. The addition of Davide and Sheharyar will expand our research function and allow us to perform due diligence across a broader range of European credit opportunities," said David Allen, Managing Partner, and Chief Investment Officer, AlbaCore. "These hires position us to continue to be nimble and selective across a variety of strategies, taking advantage of attractive opportunities to meet our client's evolving needs."

Davide joins AlbaCore with more than two decades of experience in European leveraged finance, most recently at CQS, where he served as a Portfolio Manager and Head of European Credit Research. Prior to that, Davide served in senior analyst roles with Morgan Stanley, Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Societe Generale.

Sheharyar brings extensive credit research experience with a sector-specific focus to his role at AlbaCore, having previously served as a Senior Vice President at PIMCO Europe, with a focus on high yield bonds and leveraged loans. Preceding this, he worked alongside Davide at CQS, serving as the lead sector analyst across a variety of industries.

"I'm pleased to welcome Davide and Sheharyar to the team. They both bring extensive experience in European credit to their roles, helping bolster the senior ranks of the firm," said Matthew Courey, President and COO, AlbaCore. "Building out our talented investment team's research capabilities positions us to scale our offering and continue our philosophy of mindful growth."

The build out of the research function continues AlbaCore's growth trend, with a current headcount of 75 across London and Dublin.

The firm currently has approximately $9.6 billion in AUM1 and has invested more than $25 billion2 since its founding in 2016, through an approach based on building strong, long-term partnerships with investors and counterparties.

About AlbaCore Capital Group

AlbaCore Capital Group is one of Europe's leading alternative credit specialists, investing in private capital solutions, opportunistic and dislocated credit, CLOs, and structured products. Founded in 2016, AlbaCore is part of the First Sentier Investors Group. AlbaCore's investment philosophy is focused on capital preservation and generating attractive risk adjusted returns through the cycle for its investors. AlbaCore manages US$ 9.6 billion in AUM as of 30 December 2023 on behalf of global pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, consultants, insurance companies, family offices and endowments around the world.

For more information, visit www.AlbaCoreCapitalGroup.com.

1 AUM is calculated as the sum of the Net Asset Value, undrawn capital commitments, available debt finance and assets of all vehicles managed by AlbaCore.

2 Invested capital is the sum of all 'buy' trades for all AlbaCore mandates since inception and includes recycled capital and co-investment.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327676249/en/

Contacts:

Press:

James Schiavone

Lansons

JamesS@lansons.com

1-917-238-9614
Brainomix and AstraZeneca partnered to analyze the Phase 2 tralokinumab clinical trial data of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) patients, leveraging Brainomix's AI-powered e-Lung software and biomarkers to uncover novel insights

Published data shows e-Lung could play a role in stratifying patients in clinical trials most at risk of decline, outperforming current standard measures

OXFORD, England and CHICAGO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Brainomix, the AI-powered medtech company, announces the publication of a new study in the prestigious peer-reviewed journal American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine (AJRCCM)1, resulting from a research collaboration AstraZeneca, the UK's leading Biopharmaceutical company.

The results showed that Brainomix e-Lung, an AI-enabled automated CT processing software, stratifies patients at risk of IPF progression, outperforming standard measures, and demonstrating e-Lung's potential role in improving efficiency of of future clinical trials.

The study was an analysis of AstraZeneca's Phase 2 52-Week clinical trial of tralokinumab in patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). The patient data from the trial was processed with Brainomix's e-Lung tool. The tool is uniquely powered by the weighted reticulovascular score (WRVS), a novel biomarker that incorporates reticular opacities and vascular structures of the lung.

Dr Peter George, lead author on the publication, Senior Medical Director at Brainomix, and Clinical Lead for ILD at Royal Brompton Hospital in London, said:

"In this analysis of AstraZeneca's IPF clinical trial, we have shown that from a single baseline CT scan, WRVS is able to identify patients at risk of decline in Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) over the next 52 weeks, outperforming standard measures. These data suggest that the e-Lung WRVS tool may allow for enrichment of clinical trials with progressive patients, could identify patients at low risk of IPF progression, might facilitate well-matched treatment arms and could reduce the size of future clinical trials.

Dr Kristoffer Ostridge, Head of Experimental Medicine at AstraZeneca, commented on the value of the partnership with Brainomix:

"As key components in AstraZeneca's strategy to bring new medicines to patients faster and more effectively, data science and AI are transforming R&D. Our collaboration with Brainomix helped us to expand our understanding of the potential that innovative AI approaches can bring to improving the design of clinical trial for patients with Interstitial Lung Disease."

This study comes on the back of previously published data that was presented last year at the American Thoracic Society (ATS) meeting in Washington, D.C., which showed that WRVS was more strongly associated with transplant free survival of IPF patients than FVC alone. WRVS was also able to predict both short- and long-term outcomes of the patients, including lung function decline and survival.

The collaboration with AstraZeneca was driven by Brainomix's Life Sciences division. Leveraging its extensive AI-imaging expertise, proprietary biomarkers, core lab analytics, and bespoke digital biomarkers, the company have been successfully forging a wide array of partnerships with the likes of Boehringer Ingelheim, Stryker, Bridge Biotherapeutics, Argenica and Lumosa.

1. Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med.: 2024 Feb 16 - e-Lung CT Biomarker Stratifies Patients at Risk of IPF Progression in a 52-Week Clinical Trial

https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/abs/10.1164/rccm.202312-2274LE

About Brainomix

Brainomix specializes in the creation of AI-powered software solutions to enable precision medicine for better treatment decisions in stroke and lung fibrosis. With origins as a spin-out from the University of Oxford, Brainomix is an expanding commercial-stage company with offices in the UK, Ireland and the USA, and operations in more than 30 countries. A private company, backed by leading healthtech investors, Brainomix has innovated award-winning imaging biomarkers and software solutions that have been clinically adopted in hundreds of hospitals worldwide. Its first product, the Brainomix 360 stroke platform, provides clinicians with the most comprehensive stroke imaging solution, driving increased treatment rates and improving functional independence for patients.

To learn more about Brainomix and its technology visit www.brainomix.com , and follow us on Twitter , LinkedIn and Facebook .

Contacts

Jeff Wyrtzen, Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer

jwyrtzen@brainomix.com

M +44 (0)7927 164210

T +44 (0)1865 582730

Media enquiries

Charles Consultants

Sue Charles

Sue@charles-consultants.com

M +44 (0)7968 726585

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HqO unveils 2024 State of Real Estate Experience (REX) report, highlighting:

Two-thirds (67%) of global employees agree that workplace design contributes to their enjoyment in the office.

43% of global employees do not believe their workplace contributes to environmental sustainability.

89% of global employees feel that when they are in the office, focused work at a desk is the most important activity they need their workplace to support.

BOSTON, March 27, 2024, the world's leading real estate experience platform, announced today the release of its 2024 " State of Real Estate Experience" report. Leveraging global data from close to 400,000 employees across nearly 200 organizations, this report brings focus to the challenges and opportunities in front of property owners, operators, occupiers and investors, all through the lens of real estate end-users. With proprietary customer sentiment and preference data, HqO's State of REX provides a crucial roadmap to understanding and navigating the complex CRE terrain by highlighting key REX trends reshaping the CRE industry, the 2024 in-office must-haves, and an overview of the strategic approach businesses must adopt to succeed.

The fight to quality.

Across the world, CRE leaders are grappling with significant obstacles, from high vacancy rates to sluggish economic growth . A critical cause found by the State of REX report is the lack of high-quality workspaces. This hindrance is a major productivity killer, affecting about 1 in 4 employees across the globe, and potentially derailing many businesses' shift towards a successful hybrid work model.

"The industry is on a knife's edge right now. While the overall economic picture is challenging, there are opportunities for owners and operators who focus on providing high-quality, real estate experiences within their spaces to succeed," said Chase Garbarino, Co-Founder and CEO at HqO. "This year's REX report underscores a crucial point: organizations need to not only measure and understand the preferences and sentiments of end-users of their real estate, but leverage those to create outstanding experiences. We now know, for example, that over two-thirds of employees agree that their workplace design contributes to their enjoyment and engagement when in the office. This is a clear indication that a positive real estate experience is vital to encouraging people into the office."

Chase added: "Our findings in our State of REX report paint a concerning picture for the commercial real estate industry. While a staggering 80% of U.S. employees agree that the design of their workplace is important to them, a much lower 36% believe their workplace enables them to work productively. This significant gap highlights a critical disconnect between employee needs and the reality they experience within their offices. To thrive in today's competitive landscape, businesses must prioritize understanding and optimizing the real estate experience of their employees. Data-driven decisions are essential to bridge this gap and unlock the full potential of their workspaces."

Sustainable spaces - no longer a "nice to have."

The report findings highlight a growing focus on sustainability among occupiers and their employees. Research from Deloitte found that 69% of employees want companies to invest in sustainability efforts. Yet HqO data indicates that nearly half (43%) of employees do not believe that their workplace contributes to environmental sustainability. Businesses can close this gap by implementing and investing in projects that seek to decarbonize assets, operating buildings with greater efficiency and most importantly communicating these benefits to the users of the space. Engaging with the people that use spaces will help contribute towards more sustainable behaviors and outcomes.

Only a customer-centric, data-driven approach will do.

While significant challenges remain for the global CRE industry as a whole, there are major opportunities for those who get it right, which often means reverting to the basics. Focusing, for example, on the top five office essentials uncovered in the report - a good desk, chair, access to refreshments, a high level of general cleanliness, and access to temperature control - will help deliver the deep-seated need for stability, reliability, and comfort employees want, and now demand from their work environment.

Chase Garbarino added: "Adopting a customer-centric, data-driven approach doesn't just translate to better decision making about the design and management of real estate experiences for the end-user, it enables owners and operators to impact their bottom line by driving tenant retention, leasing velocity, CapEx and OpEx optimization, and increased NOI," said Garbarino.

The State of REX compiles and reports on data gathered by HqO's Intelligence product suite which measures and assesses the health and performance of a customer's experience within a property. This proven methodology has been trusted over the last decade to solicit feedback from over 1.8 million employees from 8,000 workspaces.

About HqO:

HqO is leading the transformation of the way people experience real estate. Through its Real Estate Experience (REX) Platform-a powerful and dynamic suite of applications and services-HqO has powered over 400 million square feet at over 700 properties across 32 countries. The world's most innovative organizations rely on HqO to drive operational excellence by maximizing and boosting tenant and employee acquisition, retention, and engagement.

For more information, visit www.hqo.com .
Der kostenlose Dividenden-Report zeigt ganz genau, wo Sie in diesem Jahr zuschlagen konnen. Das sind die Favoriten von Borsenprofi Dr. Dennis Riedl

PERTH (SCOTLAND) (dpa-AFX) - SSE PLC said it now expects full-year 2023/24 adjusted earnings per share to be between 152 - 160 pence. The Group said this narrower range is consistent with previous guidance of more than 150 pence. The Group said it remains on track to report full-year 2023/24 capital expenditure of around 2.5 billion pounds. Also, SSE PLC reaffirmed the target of 175 - 200 pence adjusted earnings per share for 2026/27, as the Group continues to deliver the Net Zero Acceleration Programme Plus. The Group's full-year results presentation will be conducted virtually on 22 May 2024. For more earnings news, earnings calendar, and earnings for stocks, visit rttnews.com. 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.
MANCHESTER, England, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A growing UK-based remittance service provider, ACE Money Transfer, is delighted to announce its renowned promotion, 'Salam Bangladesh,' this time with bigger prizes in line with the Bangladeshi government's 2.5% incentives on foreign remittances to promote the use of regulated channels.

The company is giving away eight new iPhone 15 Pro and 50 cash prizes of BDT 20,000 each to Bangladeshi customers across the UK, European Union countries, Canada, Australia, and Switzerland. This promotion is open to all customers who will send money to Bangladesh through ACE Money Transfer throughout Ramadan 2024.

Despite a colossal 7.69% surge in remittance during the past 7 months, recording over $2.1 billion in January and February 2024, the new year began with a foreign exchange crisis for Bangladesh. The World Bank projects that the overall remittance inflows to Bangladesh in FY24 are expected to remain flat at $23 billion. Several Economists and other Financial experts attribute the flat ratio of remittances to the weak dollar exchange rates that have driven Bangladeshi diasporas towards using unregulated channels like Hawala/Hundi.

ACE Money Transfer has stepped forward to promote the use of regulated channels to drive increased remittance inflows to Bangladesh. The firm believes that alongside the government's 2.5% incentive, its much-anticipated 'Salam Bangladesh' promotion will significantly help stimulate the remittance inflows to Bangladesh.

Customers can win the said prizes by sending remittances to Bangladesh via ACE Money Transfer throughout Ramadan 2024. Bangladeshi expats will need to use the code 'BANGLA' to register their entries to the lucky draws when creating remittance transactions via ACE Money Transfer.

Mr Rashid Ashraf, CEO of ACE Money Transfer, says, "We stand committed to empowering Bangladeshi overseas workers through cutting-edge digital remittance solutions. With deep gratitude for the tireless efforts of our global Bangladeshi diaspora, we pledge unwavering support, delivering excellence in service and rewarding experiences."

About ACE Money Transfer

ACE Money Transfer, based out of Manchester, the UK, is a growing remittance provider. It offers impeccable online money transfer services to millions of Pakistani expatriates with an extensive network of 375,000+ locations spread across 100+ countries worldwide.

Visit: ACE Money Transfer

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Bespoke cover for company assets and third-party liability protection .

. Targeted at businesses that provide technology solutions, products and services for the healthcare and life sciences industries.

LONDON, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Chubb today announced the launch of a new HealthTech industry practice in the UK.

The new practice, which brings together Chubb underwriters, risk engineers and claims specialists who have deep industry knowledge, will offer bespoke insurance coverages that provide protection for both company assets and third-party liabilities. The HealthTech practice will serve all types of companies - from start-ups to established firms - that provide technology for use in healthcare services, research environments and related professional services. This includes the creation, distribution, licensing, development or integration of software for these industries.

The practice builds on Chubb's extensive experience meeting the coverage needs of HealthTech companies through its Life Sciences and Technology industry practices. The new offering includes property damage, business interruption, terrorism, employers' liability and cyber, along with liability protection for claims for bodily injury, products and services, professional indemnity, intellectual property and corporate reputational injury. All covers are optional and can be tailored to suit each client.

Chubb's HealthTech Industry Practice will be overseen by Louise Joyce, Head of Industry Practices for EMEA, with Victoria D'Silva, Life Science Practice Leader for UK & Ireland, heading a bespoke underwriting team.

Louise Joyce said: "We have been providing coverage for HealthTech clients for many years. Our new offering has been designed specifically to meet the needs of companies operating in this fast-moving sector and provides a range of cover in one flexible package that can be arranged online in just a few clicks through Chubb Ignite."

Victoria D'Silva said: "HealthTech firms are complex and face myriad exposures that require a specialist policy to avoid gaps in cover. Our product includes a range of first- and third-party covers that are integrated together to ensure that even in claims with multiple types of injuries and causes, there is certainty cover will respond within the scope of the policy wording."

Brokers can access immediate cover for their HealthTech clients through Chubb's digital platform, Chubb Ignite.

The HealthTech offering, which will be part of the insurer's broader Life Sciences Industry Practice, joins other Chubb industry practices in the UK, including Real Estate, Technology and Media, and Climate Tech. Chubb's industry practices are underpinned by the company's global capabilities, local presence and deep industry experience.

About Chubb



Chubb is a world leader in insurance. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations, and employs approximately 40,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: www.chubb.com.

Chubb, Chubb logo and Chubb. Insured.SM are trademarks of Chubb.

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Der kostenlose Dividenden-Report zeigt ganz genau, wo Sie in diesem Jahr zuschlagen konnen. Das sind die Favoriten von Borsenprofi Dr. Dennis Riedl

WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Oil prices fell for a second day running on Wednesday after industry data showed a significant surge in crude stockpiles in the United States, the world's largest consumer of oil. Benchmark Brent crude futures fell 0.9 percent to $84.87 a barrel, while WTI crude futures were down 0.9 percent at $80.90. Cude oil inventories in the United States rose by 9.337 million barrels for the week ending March 22, the American Petroleum Institute (API) reported on Tuesday. In the previous week, there was a 1.519-million-barrel drop in crude inventories. Gasoline inventories revealed a draw of 4.4M barrels for the week, while distillate inventories increased by 500K barrels, and stockpiles at the Cushing, Oklahoma, storage hub showed a build of 2.4M barrels. Meanwhile, the Department of Energy (DoE) reported that crude oil inventories in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) rose by another 0.7 million barrels to 363 million barrels as of March 22, marking the highest point since last April. Speculation is also rife that major oil producers are unlikely to make any changes to their output policy at an upcoming technical meeting. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) is due to unveil its inventory update later in the day. 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, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Since its launch in 2017, the Canon varioPRINT 6000 series TITAN has sold more than 1000 units across EMEA, securing a market-leading position in monochrome sheetfed production printing. Building on that success, Canon is launching updates to the series with an upgraded user interface for all models, a more robust toner and a new Print Guard Module option for even higher print durability in transactional document processing.



Delivering the renowned reliability, productivity and print quality benefits of the series, the series targets high volume markets and is capable of handling up to 10 million A4 prints per month. Catering to a wide variety of monochrome environments, the series comes in three versions, Standard, TPxp and MICR, which cover different customer market segments - general commercial, book, manual or in-house printing, transactional, and security printing. Standard, TPxP, and MICR presses are available in multiple speed versions with the possibility of temporary or permanent speed upgrades and a choice of paper input and finishing modules. The Canon varioPRINT 6000 series TITAN will be shown on the Canon stand in hall 8a at drupa 2024.

Tailored to meet customer's needs

The three versions, Standard, TPxp and MICR, have been optimised for operating in the commercial and in-house print, transactional and security markets, so users can produce a large variety of applications, including on-demand books, manuals, transactional documents, direct mail and financial documents, as well as applications printed on lightweight media such as pharma leaflets.

All varioPRINT 6000 TITAN speed models of the TPxp (transactional printing with extra performance) range have been designed specifically for the production of transactional documents and direct mail. The newly developed, more hard-wearing, TPxp toner, combined with the latest optional Print Guard Module (PGM), provides a higher cohesive strength to further increase the durability of prints, which is crucial to sustain optimal print quality in environments using heavy-duty, near-line finishing equipment.

Upgraded usability

The varioPRINT 6000 series TITAN now runs on the latest, Mark 10 version of PRISMAsync, Canon's own print server that processes jobs and monitors and controls printer functions. Offering up to eight hours of advanced production planning and scheduling and making workflows as efficient as possible, PRISMAsync processes the real-time information needed to predict necessary operator interventions and allows the remote monitoring of one or multiple presses at a glance via PRISMAremote Manager.

Further excelling in user convenience, the highly visual PRISMAsync user interface with integrated media panel is now operated from a new, more dynamic user interface panel on a large, 21.5" full HD, multi-touch screen.

Scalable technology

The varioPRINT 6000 series TITAN is available with temporary and permanent speed licences of 182, 221, 272 and 328 A4 ipm to adapt to the changing print volumes of print service providers, as and when they need it. Via its DFD interface, the varioPRINT TITAN connects with a wide range of standard and heavy-duty finishing equipment. The optional Light Weight Media kit enables users to print on ultra-light stock (45 gsm).

Exceptional application quality and close to zero ozone emissions

Energy efficient, exceptionally reliable and highly productive at up to 10 million A4 prints per month, the varioPRINT 6000 series TITAN helps high-volume print operations deliver exceptional-quality applications with a drastically reduced production time. Thanks to its Gemini technology, the monochrome printer combines offset-like, single-pass duplex printing with low power consumption, no toner waste and minimal noise and ozone emissions.

The varioPRINT 6000 series TITAN has been designed for the circular economy with sustainability in mind and is built to last with components that can be reused through Canon's buyback programme available in Europe. Energy efficiency is improved with simultaneous fusing, low fusing temperatures and low heat emissions.

Proven experience

L'imprimerie Corlet has been a leading book printer for more than 60 years and is the third largest book printer in France. Jean-Luc CORLET, CEO of the Corlet Group, says, "The varioPRINT 6000 TITAN press joins the group's digital department and is satisfying all the requirements of our various, constantly evolving production environments. We believe the TITAN is the most efficient, sheetfed production press in double-sided mono printing on the market. It is the ultimate choice."

Universitas, a sustainable digital printing company from Belgium, has customers spanning the education sectors, publishers, sector funds, academies and training companies as well as the B2B market. The company installed a varioPRINT 6270 TITAN to migrate more of its customers' short and medium-length monochrome print jobs from offset to digital.

Tom Van Uffelen, Owner at Universitas comments, "We invested in the varioPRINT 6270 TITAN due to the impressive specifications of the press, specifically its uptime, reliable paper path, ability to print on 45 gsm stock, accuracy of front/back registration, offset-like print quality, operational flexibility and ease of use for short runs. This combined with the sustainability benefits, such as low energy consumption, lack of waste toner and little to no ozone emissions, made this printer a no brainer for our business."

Ayman Aly, Marketing Director, B2B, Canon Middle East, comments, "Canon's ongoing commitment to innovation spans all production print categories. Monochrome printed documents are a vital and critical form of print communications with the continued growth of short run, digital book production and utilization in applications such as direct mail. Delivering outstanding reliability, quality and energy efficiencies, our varioPRINT 6000 series TITAN flagship monochrome press has earned the trust of a majority of print service providers investing in 200+ppm presses and secured the leading market share in this segment since its introduction. The varioPRINT 6000 series TITAN is the ideal monochrome press for high-volume operations delivering applications such as commercial, book, educational, electoral, transactional or security printing; making it the workhorse that delivers uncompromising quality and productivity every time."

For more information on the varioPRINT 6000 series TITAN, visit: https://en.canon-me.com/business/products/production-printers/digital-presses/varioprint-6000-titan/

About Canon Middle East

Canon Middle East, a subsidiary of Canon Europe, is the operational headquarters for Canon in the Middle East based in Dubai, UAE.?

Founded in 1937, the desire to continuously innovate has kept Canon at the forefront of imaging excellence throughout its 80-year history with its commitments to invest in the right areas and capture growth opportunities. From cameras to commercial printers, and business consultancy to healthcare technologies, Canon enriches lives and businesses through imaging innovation.? Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei - 'living and working together for the common good'. In EMEA, Canon Europe pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services.

Canon invests heavily in R&D, delivering the richest and most innovative products and services to satisfy customers' creative needs. From amateur photographers to professional print companies, Canon enables each customer to realise their own passion for image. Further information about Canon Middle East is available at www.canon-me.com

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CHICAGO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ADAS market size is projected to grow from 334 Million Units in 2024 to 655 Million Units by 2030, at a CAGR of 11.9%, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The increasing demand for electric and autonomous vehicles is expected to increase the demand for ADAS. Additionally, continuous innovation in connected car features will boost the demand for ADAS.

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Browse in-depth TOC on "ADAS Market".

100 - Tables

100 - Figures

400 - Pages

ADAS Market Scope:

Report Coverage Details Market Size 655 Million Units Growth Rate CAGR of 11.9% Largest Market Asia Pacific Market Dynamics Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities & Challenges Forecast Period 2024-2030 Forecast Units Value (Units) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Offering (Hardware (Camera, Radar, LiDAR, Ultrasonic, ECU), Software (Middleware, Application Software & OS)), System Type, Vehicle Type (PC, LCV, HCV), Level of Autonomy, Vehicle Class, EV type and Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World Report Highlights Updated financial information / product portfolio of players Key Market Opportunities Advancements in autonomous vehicle technology Key Market Drivers Increased focus on vehicle safety

BEV segment is expected to have the largest share in the global ADAS market

The BEV is expected to grow the largest in terms of volume. Owing to the governments of India, China, the United States, and European nations provide subsidies for electric infrastructure, consequently fostering expansion within the Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) segment. OEMs respond by introducing new electric iterations of existing Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models. Furthermore, heightened competition from prominent Electric Vehicle (EV) manufacturers like Tesla prompts traditional OEMs to strategize incorporating additional safety and driving assistance features to maintain competitiveness. Prominent automakers such as BMW, BYD, Tesla, Mercedes Benz, and Audi increasingly focus on eco-friendly vehicles equipped with enhanced driving comfort features. For instance, in September 2023, BYD expanded its sales in Southeast Asia through partnerships with regional distributors. As a result, the anticipated increase in demand for ADAS solutions within the electric vehicle segment is projected for the forecast period.

The application Software segment is estimated to exhibit the fastest growth in the global ADAS market.

Application software is expected to have significant growth opportunities in the automotive software market during the forecast period. This is attributed to the increasing sales of ADAS-equipped vehicles and the rising demand for connected technologies. Enterprises such as Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan), Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan), Mahindra & Mahindra Limited (India), BYD (China), and MG Motor (UK), among others, provide Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) functionalities. These functionalities encompass adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot detection, and rear collision warning. The effective operation of these features mandates that application software be capable of functioning efficiently within a real-time environment. In India, automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) such as Mahindra & Mahindra Limited and Morris Garages offer Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) functionalities. These include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, lane-keep assist, and traffic sign recognition.

Similarly, in October 2023, Hyundai Motor Company announced the standardization of six airbags across all its models. Additionally, the company is poised to integrate ADAS as a standard feature across all models by 2025. It is anticipated that 60% of all Hyundai vehicles sold in India will incorporate ADAS features by 2024.

US to lead the ADAS market in North America.

The US is predicted to lead the North American ADAS industry due to the high demand for feature-rich passenger cars and pickup trucks, and it is a mature market for modern technology compared to Canada and Mexico. ADAS features include lane departure warning, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Some vehicles also have advanced features like automatic park assist and traffic sign recognition. These technologies can help improve road safety by reducing the risk of accidents caused by human error. For instance, in December 2023, Black Sesame Technologies (US) and BlackBerry (US) partnered with ECARX (China) for ADAS technology by integrating advanced AI algorithms, sensor fusion, and cybersecurity features into the Skyland platform. Additionally, the increase in sales and demand for autonomous driving and cruise control of luxury vehicles will positively impact the demand for ADAS in North America. The region's large customer base and high disposable income have fueled the premium passenger car market.

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Key Market Players:

The major players in ADAS Companies include Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany), Continental AG (Germany), ZF Friedrichshafen (Germany), Denso (Japan), and Magna International (Canada), among others.

Recent Developments

In February 2024, ZF Friedrichshafen AG launched ZF Aftermarket OnLaneALERT, a new front camera module for LDW in commercial vehicles.

In February 2024, Robert Bosch GmbH announced that it is teaming up with Microsoft to develop and research generative AI and how to integrate it within vehicle features such as automated driving.

In February 2024, Continental AG revealed its new 8MP automotive camera. The satellite camera will help automakers with features like autonomous driving platform, parking assist, 3D surround view, and more.

In December 2023, Robert Bosch GmbH announced that it would showcase a new vehicle computer called Cockpit & ADAS integration platform. The foundation of this new computer is a single SoC that executes a number of operations from the infotainment and driver assistance domains simultaneously. This features autonomous parking, lane detection, smart, tailored navigation, and voice assistance. Advantages for car makers include reduced space and required cabling, resulting in cheaper costs.

In December 2023, Telechips, a semiconductor manufacturer from South Korea, announced that Continental AG has supplied its Dolphin System on Chip (SoC) family. The SoC is tailored to the pre-integrated function set of Continental's Smart Cockpit High-Performance Computers (HPCs), providing optimal system performance for cluster, infotainment, and ADAS.

In October 2023, Denso Corporation announced that it would collaborate with KOITO MANUFACTURING CO., LTD. (Japan) to develop a system to improve the object recognition rate of vehicle image sensors at night. The solution is expected to work with coordinating lamps and image sensors, which will improve driving safety during nighttime.

In June 2023, Continental AG presented a high-performance computer (HPC) that provides optimal system performance for a pre-integrated set of automobile operations. The Smart Cockpit HPC integrates a variety of domains and services, including cluster, infotainment (display, radio, phone, phone mirroring, and navigation), and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS).

In May 2023, Robert Bosch GmbH announced that it would collaborate with Plus to develop an assisted driving solution for commercial vehicles.

In March 2023, Robert Bosch GmbH advanced driver assistance system controller combines radar, video, lidar, ultrasound, and complex algorithms for precise 360 environment modeling, ensuring safe vehicle behavior even at high speeds.

In January 2023, ZF Friedrichshafen AG launched Smart Camera 6 for ADAS systems and automated driving. Smart Camera 6 has a 120-degree field of view, more than 4x higher picture resolution (8 megapixels) than the previous model, and more processing power to support sophisticated features such as AEB, Automated parking, and more.

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Semi-Autonomous & Autonomous Bus Market - Global Forecast to 2030

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Kiumars Hamidian will hand over to Stefan Penthin on September 1, 2024, as part of a planned process after two terms in office

With, as planned, the final term of its current Managing Partner coming to an end, the partnership of the independent management and technology consultancy, BearingPoint, has elected Stefan Penthin to be its next Managing Partner, effective September 1, 2024. He will succeed Kiumars Hamidian, who successfully headed the business since his appointment in 2018, and did not stand for re-election after two terms in office as planned. The new Managing Partner was elected by the BearingPoint Partners in a collaborative process based on the principle of One Partner One Vote.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327335930/en/

Stefan Penthin will be the next worldwide Managing Partner of BearingPoint. (Photo: Business Wire)

Stefan Penthin comments: "I am honored to be entrusted as the next Managing Partner of our firm and am fully committed to the long-term success of our clients and the partnership. We have extraordinary people and a strong portfolio driven by the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. We will go further with our mission, creating lasting outcomes for our clients, and enabling people to succeed."

Stefan Penthin has been with BearingPoint for 23 years and became a Partner in 2012. He is a member of the firm's global Management Committee and of the German Executive Committee. He is also the global leader for BearingPoint's market segments as well as the global leader for Automotive Industrial Manufacturing. Stefan brings more than 25 years of experience in business consulting to the table and has been leading large global consulting projects and business transformation programs with a focus on automotive and manufacturing industries. Stefan's functional expertise is centered around supply chain management, operational excellence, as well as production and logistics optimization. His clients include major multinational corporations as well as specialized segment players across the globe.

Kiumars Hamidian comments: "Congratulations to Stefan Penthin! With him taking up the role as Managing Partner in September, I know that our business is in the safest possible hands. Stefan is a highly trusted leader and has been exceptionally successful in creating client value, he has excellent abilities, deep industry expertise, and an outstanding commitment to our values and principles. In his role as the global leader for our market segments, Stefan has made a significant contribution to the outstanding business success of our firm with revenues increasing to over EUR 1 billion. The transition process is well on schedule, and fully supported by the entire partnership of our firm."

Kiumars Hamidian, Managing Partner at BearingPoint since 2018, guided BearingPoint successfully through the pandemic and to new heights. Under his leadership, revenues rose to more than EUR 1 billion and the number of employees increased to more than six thousand in 2023.

During Hamidian's time in office, 13 acquisitions were delivered, a new subsidiary in India opened, and the US and Asia business expanded. In addition, the first joint venture (Arcwide) has been successfully established, and BearingPoint RegTech and BearingPoint Beyond (today flourishing as independent companies) have been successfully spun off. Moreover, BearingPoint established its purpose "Together, we are more than business," and embraced a people-centric culture. Once the handover to Stefan Penthin is complete, Kiumars Hamidian will start his official early retirement phase in early 2025.

About BearingPoint

BearingPoint is an independent management and technology consultancy with European roots and a global reach. The company operates in three business units: Consulting, Products, and Capital. Consulting covers the advisory business with a clear focus on selected business areas. Products provide IP-driven digital assets and managed services for business-critical processes. Capital delivers M&A and transaction services.

BearingPoint's clients include many of the world's leading companies and organizations. The firm has a global consulting network with more than 10,000 people and supports clients in over 70 countries, engaging with them to achieve measurable and sustainable success.

For more information, please visit:

Homepage: www.bearingpoint.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/bearingpoint

X: @BearingPoint

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327335930/en/

Contacts:

Press

Alexander Bock

Global Senior Manager Communications

Telephone: +49 89 540338029

E-Mail: alexander.bock@bearingpoint.com
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Theralase Technologies Inc. ("Theralase" or the "Company") (TSXV:TLT)(OTCQB:TLTFF), a clinical stage pharmaceutical company dedicated to the research and development of light and/or radiation activated Photo Dynamic Compounds ("PDCs") for the safe and effective destruction of various cancers, bacteria and viruses has released the Company's audited annual consolidated 2023 financial statements ("Financial Statements").

Theralase will be hosting a conference call on Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 at 11:00 am ET, which will include a presentation of the financial and operational results for the fiscal year ending December 31st , 2023. Questions are welcome; to ensure we have time to review and answer them during the call, please send them in advance to mperraton@theralase.com.

Zoom Meeting Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86038122827

Conference Call in: 1-647-558-0588 (Canada) / 1-646-558-8656 (US) - not required for those attending by Zoom.

An archived version will be available on the website following the conference call.

Financial Summary:

For the year ended December 31st :

1 Other represents foreign exchange, interest accretion on lease liabilities and / or interest income

Financial Highlights

For the year ended December 31, 2023;

Total revenue decreased 6%, year over year.

Cost of sales was $508,173 (47% of revenue) resulting in a gross margin of $562,134 (53% of revenue). In comparison, the cost of sales for the same period in 2022 was $510,395 (45% of revenue) resulting in a gross margin of $628,174 (55% of revenue). The gross margin decrease as a percentage of sales, year over year, is attributed to an increase in material costs and a write-down of obsolete inventory of $89,325 (2022 - $4,799).

Selling expenses decreased to $278,866, from $301,359 for the same period in 2022, a 7% decrease. The decrease in selling expenses is a result of reduced spending in advertising (18%), and salaries (16%).

Administrative expenses increased to $1,895,460 from $1,277,253 for the same period in 2022, a 48% increase. The increase in administrative expenses is attributed to increased spending on general and administrative expenses (80%) and director and advisory fees (34%).

Stock based compensation expense increased 392% in 2022, due to the cumulative effect of accounting for the vesting of stock options granted in the current and previous years.

Net research and development expenses for the Drug Division decreased to $2,938,245 from $4,113,741 for the same period in 2022, a 29% decrease. The decrease is primarily attributed to a decrease in the costs related to the manufacture of the Study Device and expenses for Study II patient enrollment and treatment.

Net research and development expenses for the Device Division decreased to $43,828 from $167,365 for the same period in 2022, a 74% decrease.

Net loss was $4,570,879, which included $933,790 of net non-cash expenses (i.e.: amortization, stock-based compensation expense and foreign exchange gain/loss). This compared to a net loss in 2022 of $5,235,302 which included $554,298 of net non-cash expenses, a 13% decrease. The Drug Division represented $4,058,764 of this loss (89%) in 2023. The decrease in net loss is attributed to decreased spending on research and development expenses in Study II.

Operational Highlights:

Non-Brokered Private Placement

On November 29, 2023, the Company closed a non-brokered private placement of Units. On closing, the Company issued an aggregate of 5,318,183 Units at a price of $CAN 0.22 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $CAN 1,170,000 of which 461,282 Units were purchased by certain insiders of the Corporation. Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company and one non-transferable Warrant. Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire an additional Common Share at a price of $CAN 0.28 for a period of 5 years following the date of issuance.

On February 5, 2024, the Company closed a non-brokered private placement of Units. On closing, the Company issued an aggregate of 6,666,670 units at a price of $CAN 0.18 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $CAN 1,200,000, of which 1,310,502 units were purchased by certain insiders of the Corporation. Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company and one non-transferable Warrant. Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire an additional Common Share at a price of $CAN 0.23 for a period of 5 years following the date of issuance.

Kristina Hachey CPA, Chief Financial Officer of Theralase stated, "The 2023 annual financial statements are representative of the Company investing in the development of its lead asset, light-activated RuvidarTM, with a focus on commercializing the next standard of care treatment for BCG-Unresponsive NMIBC CIS. In 2024, the Company plans to secure funding through various equity and debt instruments to allow the Company the ability to become base shelf eligible. This will allow the Company sufficient funding to complete enrollment into Study II by year end, data lock in mid 2026 and position the Company for FDA and Health Canada approval the end of 2026."

Study II Update

On February 8 th , 2024, Dr. Michael Jewett joined the Company in the role of an independent consultant, to assist the Company in the accruement of patients into Study II. Under the terms of the consulting agreement, Dr. Jewett will be responsible for working with existing clinical study sites and helping to onboard new clinical study sites to assist Theralase to complete enrollment and provide the primary study treatment to all 100 patients in Study II, by December 31, 2024.

To date, Study II has provided the primary study treatment for 63 patients, with new patients being enrolled in 2Q2024.

An advisory board meeting is scheduled to take place on April 12, 2024 during the Canadian Urologic Association ("CUA") Bladder Cancer Forum 2024 located in Toronto, Ontario to provide an update to all Canadian Principal Investigators ("PIs") of the Study II interim clinical data and to discuss opportunities for patient enrollment.

An advisory board meeting is scheduled to take place on May 4th , 2024 during the 2024 American Urology Association ("AUA") meeting in San Antonio, Texas to provide an update to all Canadian and US-based PIs of the Study II interim clinical data and to discuss opportunities for patient enrollment.

Break Through Designation Update

The Company submitted a pre-Break Through Designation ("BTD") submission to the FDA in July 2023 and based on the FDA's feedback, the Company is currently working with the Clinical Study Sites ("CSSs"), a biostatistics organization and a regulatory organization to update the pre-BTD with clinical data clarifications identified by the FDA. The Company plans to resubmit the pre-BTD submission to the FDA in 2Q2024 for FDA review of these clarifications. Once the pre-BTD submission has been accepted by the FDA, the Company will compile a BTD submission for review by the FDA in support of the grant of a BTD approval.

Study II Preliminary Clinical Data :

Performance to Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Objectives

The Study II interim clinical data is demonstrating the following data:

For the primary objective, 64% of patients provided the Study Procedure (Study Drug activated by the Study Device) demonstrated a Complete Response ("CR") (negative cystoscopy and negative urine cytology). Including patients, who demonstrated an Indeterminate Response (" IR") (negative cystoscopy and positive or suspicious urine cytology), the Total Response ("TR") increases to 75%. This represents that 3 out of 4 Bacillus Calmette Guerin ("BCG")-Unresponsive Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer ("NMIBC") Carcinoma In-Situ ("CIS") patients treated with Theralase's unique Study Procedure are demonstrating complete destruction of their CIS bladder cancer within their bladders.

For the secondary objective, 35% (> 1 out of 3) patients demonstrated a duration of their CR for 15 months from date of first treatment.

For the tertiary objective, no patients have been diagnosed with a Serious Adverse Event ("SAE") directly related to the Study Drug or Study Device.

Clinical Data Based on Assessment Visit

The interim clinical data demonstrates that at the 90 Day Assessment, 56% of Evaluable Patients achieved a CR and 64% achieved a Total Response post primary Study II Treatment and at the 450 Day Assessment 38% achieved a CR and 40% achieved a TR.

Clinical Data Based on Assessment Visit for Patients Treated with the Optimized Study Procedure (Post August 1, 2020)

The above interim clinical data demonstrates that for patients who received the Optimized Study Procedure at the 90 Day Assessment visit, 61% of Evaluable Patients achieved a CR and 69% achieved a Total Response (CR + IR) post primary Study Procedure. At the 450 Day Assessment, 40% achieved a CR and 43% achieved a TR.

Note:

For patients to be included in the statistical clinical analysis they must be enrolled in Study II, provided the primary Study Procedure and evaluated by a PI at the 90 day assessment visit (cystoscopy and urine cytology)

One patient passed away prior to their 90 day assessment and is therefore not included in the efficacy statistical analysis, only in the safety statistical analysis; therefore, there are 63 patients that have been statistically analyzed for efficacy.

Evaluable Patients are defined as patients who have been evaluated by a PI and thus excludes a patient's clinical data at specific assessment days, if that clinical data is pending.

Two patients have been enrolled and provided the primary Study Procedure but, have not been evaluated at their 90 day assessment; therefore, 61 patients are considered Evaluable Patients at 90 days, with 52 patients considered Evaluable Patients at 450 days.

The data analysis presented above should be read with caution, as the clinical data is interim in its presentation, as Study II is ongoing and new clinical data collected may or may not continue to support the current trends.

For patients who have been removed from Study II by the PI or have elected to discontinue from the clinical study their Last Observation Carried Forward ("LOCF") has been used in this statistical analysis.

Patient Response Chart:

The Swimmer's plot below is a graphical representation of the interim clinical results (n=63) graphically demonstrating a patient's response to a treatment over time. As can be seen in the plot, clinical data is still pending for patients, who have demonstrated a CR and continue to demonstrate a duration of that response.

Swimmer's Plot:

The Swimmer's Plot illustrates:

18 Evaluable Patients achieved CR at each assessment date and thus achieved the primary and secondary objectives of Study II for all patients assessed up to 450 days (18/52 = 35%).

39 Evaluable Patients that achieved CR on at least one assessment date and thus achieved the primary objective of Study II (39/61 = 64%)

Kaplan-Meier Curve

The Kaplan-Meier ("KM") Curve represents the interim cumulative incidence of clinical events, including the treatment efficacy, occurring over prespecified time in Study II.

According to the interim clinical data in the KM curve:

> 80% of patients remained in Study II after 90 days, following the initial Study Procedure.

39% of Total Response patients have a duration of response = 450 days.

38% of Complete Response patients have a duration of response = 450 days.

Serious Adverse Events

For 64 patients treated in Study II, there have been 13 Serious Adverse Events ("SAEs") reported:

2 - Grade 2 (resolved within 1 and 1 days, respectively)

7 - Grade 3 (resolved within 1, 2, 3, 4, 4, 82 and unknown days, respectively)

3 - Grade 4 (resolved within 3, 6 and 8 days, respectively)

1 - Grade 5

Theralase believes all SAEs reported to date are unrelated to the Study II Drug or Study II Device, as reviewed and confirmed by an independent Data Safety Monitoring Board ("DSMB").

Note: A SAE is defined as any untoward medical occurrence that at any dose: Is serious or life-threatening, requires inpatient hospitalization or prolongation of existing hospitalization, results in persistent or significant disability/incapacity, is a congenital anomaly/birth defect or results in death.

Dr. Arkady Mandel, MD, PhD, DSc, Chief Scientific Officer of Theralase stated, "The interim clinical data of Study II to date has proven to be world-class. Study II has demonstrated an ability to destroy urothelial cell carcinoma in a patient's bladder for a total response of 69% and a duration of that total response of 43%, for patients treated with the optimized Study Procedure. The primary benefits of the Theralase technology versus competitive technologies are the high efficacy rates (patients achieve a CR in approximately 60% of the cases after only one Study Procedure), high duration of response and high safety margin (no SAEs directly associated with the Study Drug or Study Device); therefore, the Theralase technology presents a safe, effective alternative therapy for patients, who are at risk of having their bladder removed."

About Study II:

Study II utilizes the therapeutic dose of the patented Study II Drug ("RuvidarTM" or "TLD-1433") (0.70 mg/cm2) activated by the proprietary Study II Device (TLC-3200 Medical Laser System or "TLC-3200"). Study II is focused on enrolling and treating approximately 100 BCG-Unresponsive NMIBC Carcinoma In-Situ ("CIS") patients in up to 15 Clinical Study Sites ("CSS") located in Canada and the United States.

About Ruvidar TM:

RuvidarTM is a peer reviewed, patented PDC currently under investigation in Study II.

About Theralase Technologies Inc.:

Theralase is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company dedicated to the research and development of light activated compounds, their associated drug formulations and the light systems that activate them, with a primary objective of efficacy and a secondary objective of safety in the destruction of various cancers, bacteria and viruses.

Additional information is available at www.theralase.com and www.sedarplus.ca

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements:

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such statements include; but are not limited to statements regarding the Company's proposed development plans with respect to Photo Dynamic Compounds and their drug formulations. Forward looking statements may be identified by the use of the words "may," should", "will", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "expects", "estimate", "potential for" and similar expressions; including, statements related to the current expectations of Company's management for future research, development and commercialization of the Company's Photo Dynamic Compounds and their drug formulations, preclinical research, clinical studies and regulatory approvals.

These statements involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions; including, the ability of the Company to: adequately fund and secure the requisite regulatory approvals to commercially market a treatment for bladder cancer in a timely fashion and implement its commercialization strategy. Other risks include: the ability of the Company to successfully complete its Phase II BCG-Unresponsive NMIBC CIS clinical study , access to sufficient capital to fund the Company's operations may not be available or may not be available on terms that are commercially favorable to the Company, the Company's drug formulations may not be effective against the diseases tested in its clinical studies, the Company's fails to comply with the term of license agreements with third parties and as a result loses the right to use key intellectual property in its business, the Company's ability to protect its intellectual property, the timing and success of submission, acceptance and approval of regulatory filings. Many of these factors that will determine actual results are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict.

Readers should not unduly rely on these forward- looking statements, which are not a guarantee of future performance. There can be no assurance that forward looking statements will prove to be accurate as such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results or future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements.

Although the forward-looking statements contained in the press release are based upon what management currently believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure prospective investors that actual results, performance or achievements will be consistent with these forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and are subject to change. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update such statements.

For More Information:

1.866.THE.LASE (843-5273)

416.699.LASE (5273)

www.theralase.com

Kristina Hachey, CPA

Chief Financial Officer

khachey@theralase.com

SOURCE: Theralase Technologies Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Tortola, British Virgin Islands--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Sailfish Royalty Corp. (TSXV: FISH) (OTCQX: SROYF) (the "Company" or "Sailfish") is pleased to announce that on March 18, 2024 a Notice of Intent ("NOI") to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement ("EIS") for the Proposed Spring Valley Gold Mine ("Spring Valley Mine Project") located in Pershing County, Nevada, was published in the federal register.

In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended (NEPA), and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, as amended, the Bureau of Land Management ("BLM") Humboldt River Field Office in Winnemucca, Nevada, intends to prepare an EIS to consider the effects of the Spring Valley Mine Project.

This news follows the Company's previous Spring Valley Mine Project announcement on July 26, 2023, whereby the BLM acknowledged receipt of a Plan of Operations and Nevada Reclamation Permit Application ("PO") for the Spring Valley Mine Project and confirmed that it is technically complete under the terms of the relevant permitting statutes (see the Company's new release dated July 26, 2023 for further information).

Paolo Lostritto, CEO stated, "We are excited to see the permitting process continue to advance at the Spring Valley Mine Project as our royalty portfolio covers 100% of the proposed open pit as outlined in the Plan of Operations with the majority of the royalty coverage resulting in a 3% net smelter return royalty payable to Sailfish. The filing of the NOI to prepare an EIS is a significant step forward towards becoming an operating mine. The reference document highlights an expected Record of Decision by the winter of 2025. The Spring Valley Mine Project is one of the largest gold development projects in the Americas and is a core value driver for Sailfish shareholders."

Plan of Operations:

The PO covers 698 unpatented claims and 895 mill site claims as well as private fee lands, either owned or controlled by the Operator and proposes, among other things, the following activities and facilities:

Development of the Spring Valley open pit;

Construction of pit dewatering facilities, including rapid infiltration basins;

Development of three waste rock storage facilities;

Development of a heap leach facility;

Construction of a crushing circuit;

Construction of carbon processing and refining facilities;

Development of light duty and haul roads;

Development of stormwater control structures;

Development of other facilities including the mine fleet shop, explosives storage, truck shop, refueling area, and mine offices;

Development of site infrastructure including parking areas, yards, storage areas, and an aggregate plant; and

Development of site utilities including: power distribution, a used materials pad, freshwater distribution, potable water system, fire water system, sewage system, communications facilities, and fuel storage and distribution facilities.

The PO states that the proposed operation will use conventional open pit mining methods. The PO outlines the excavation of the open pit to occur over 13 years, which includes 18-24 months of pre-stripping during construction. Over the life of mine, approximately 323 million tons of mineralized material is expected to be mined, along with 598 million tons of waste rock and 328 million tons of alluvium. The average mining rate for Spring Valley is expected to be approximately 100 million tons of material per year.

The proposed operation would employ a contractor workforce of approximately 130 employees during the initial two-year construction period and approximately 250 full-time employees for the operations period. The proposed operation would operate 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. The total life of the Spring Valley Mine Project would be 29 years, including two years of construction, 11 years of mining, three additional years of ore processing, and 13 years of reclamation and closure activities.

As a reminder to shareholders, the Company's current royalty portfolio on the Spring Valley Mine Project covers 100% of the open pit as outlined in the PO, with the majority of the acres included in the proposed open pit covered by a 3% net smelter return royalty ("NSR") at prevailing gold prices. See Figure 1 below.

Sailfish holds the following Spring Valley Mine Project royalty assets:

up to a 3% NSR1 on a majority of the acres included in the proposed open pit at Spring Valley Mine Project (royalty boundary in blue); a 1.5% NSR on a portion of the proposed open pit at Spring Valley Mine Project (royalty boundary in pink); and a 0.5% NSR on a portion of the proposed open pit at Spring Valley Mine Project (royalty boundary in yellow2).

Figure 1 - Sailfish Royalty Corp.'s various Spring Valley Mine Project royalty holdings (boundaries are approximate).

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5699/203226_0e3856b9f4556987_001full.jpg

1 For clarity, the up to 3% NSR owned by Sailfish is part of a total 7% NSR above $700/oz. Au. The sliding scale NSR royalty is not payable on the first 500,000 ounces of gold recovered from any commercial production.

2 Excluding the areas included in the blue and pink boundaries.

Spring Valley hosts a 2014 published National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") compliant report. The technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on Resources, Spring Valley Project", effective August 1, 2014, was prepared by William J. Crowl, R.G., MMSA QP, Zachary J. Black, SME-RM and Deepak Malhotra, PhD, SME-RM and filed by Midway Gold Corp. on September 9, 2014 and is based on work completed in a joint venture between Midway Gold Corp. and Barrick Gold Corporation (the "Technical Report"). The technical report is available at www.sedarplus.ca under Midway Gold Corp.'s profile.

About Sailfish

Sailfish is a precious metals royalty and streaming company. Within Sailfish's portfolio are three main assets in the Americas: a gold stream equivalent to a 3% NSR on the San Albino gold mine (~3.5 sq. km) and a 2% NSR on the rest of the area (~134.5 sq. km) surrounding San Albino in northern Nicaragua; an up to 3% NSR on the multi-million ounce Spring Valley gold project in Pershing County, Nevada; and a 100% interest in the Gavilanes Silver Project located in Durango State, Mexico.

Sailfish is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "FISH" and on the OTCQX under the symbol "SROYF". Please visit the Company's website at for additional information.

Qualified Person

Dr. Matthew D. Gray, President, Resource Geosciences Incorporated, Qualified Person under NI 43- 101 on standards of disclosure for mineral projects, has reviewed and approved the technical content of this release. To verify the technical content of this disclosure Dr. Gray reviewed the: Spring Valley Mine Plan of Operations and Nevada Reclamation Permit Application prepared by Solidus Resources Spring Valley, Nevada, USA; and the BLM acknowledgement letter, obtained from the NDEP and the Humboldt River field office of the BLM.

For further information: Paolo Lostritto, CEO, tel. 416-602-2645 or Akiba Leisman, Executive Chairman of the Board, tel. 917-558-5289.

Neither the 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 statement regarding forward-looking information

Certain disclosures in this release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by words such as the following: expects, plans, anticipates, believes, intends, estimates, projects, assumes, potential and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements also include reference to events or conditions that will, would, may, could or should occur, including, without limitation, statements regarding: advancement of the permitting process for Spring Valley; plans relating to the development and construction of Spring Valley as contemplated in the PO; expected mining results over the LOM; expected Record of Decision by the winter of 2025; and discussion of future plans, projects, objectives, estimates and forecasts and the timing related thereto. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable, including, without limitation: that BLM will approve the PO and the Operator will receive necessary permits to complete its proposed development and construction of Spring Valley as contemplated in the PO; the development and construction of Spring Valley will be completed as contemplated in the PO; and that future mining operations at Spring Valley will produce the anticipated results. However, the forward-looking statements in this news release are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements, including without limitation: that BLM does not approve the PO and the Operator is unable to obtain the necessary permits to complete its proposed development and construction of Spring Valley as contemplated in the PO; the proposed development and construction of Spring Valley is not completed as contemplated in the PO; the results of future mining operations at Spring Valley may be less favorable than anticipated; and those applicable risks, uncertainties and factors set forth in the Company's disclosure record under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203226

SOURCE: Sailfish Royalty Corp.
In November, Connecticut State Police raided a Burlington home and seized psilocybin mushrooms valued at $8.5 million. A 21-year-old man is scheduled for an April date in state Superior Court, on two felony charges. The legislative Judiciary Committee on Tuesday approved a bill that would decriminalize possession of small amount of so-called 'magic' mushrooms. Connecticut State Police / Contributed Photo Veteran state Sen. John Kissel of Enfield, a ranking Republican on the legislative Judiciary Committee Christian Abraham / Hearst Connecticut Media State Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, co-chairman of the legislative Judiciary Committee. Ken Dixon/Hearst Connecticut Media

The legislative Judiciary Committee, acknowledging that there is emerging research on its therapeutic used for PTSD and depression, on Tuesday approved a bill that would decriminalize possession of small amount of so-called "magic" mushrooms.

The bill, which passed along party lines 24-13 in the Democratic-dominated committee, next heads to the House of Representatives. If approved there and then in the state Senate, and finally signed by the governor, it would turn possession of a half ounce or less of psilocybin mushrooms from a misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in prison, to an infraction payable with a $100 fine.

Some Republicans on the committee acknowledged its possible medicinal uses for post traumatic stress disorder and other mental health conditions. But they also warned it would be the first step toward approving mushrooms for recreational use, similar to the 2011 decriminalization of small amounts of cannabis, signed by then-Gov. Dannel P. Malloy. In June of 2021, Gov. Ned Lamont approved legislation for retail sales of adult-use cannabis.

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"I will note we are not legalizing psilocybin under this bill. Let's be clear," said state Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, co-chairman of the committee. "Possession of psilocybin under this bill would still be illegal. A police officer could still confiscate it, could still destroy it and could issue an infraction ticket to someone in possession of small amounts of psilocybin. Recognizing there has been quite a bit of study around this drug, recognizing the potential health benefits that veterans and others suffering from PTSD use it for."

"We went down this path once with the ultimate legalization of recreational marijuana," said Sen. John Kissel of Enfield, a ranking Republican on the committee. "You're going to be seeing things or looking at things and it's going to have a different effect on your psyche. How that impacts an individual, I don't know. It's basically taking what's a misdemeanor, which is pretty low on our scale of offenses, and essentially turning it into a traffic ticket, an infraction. So it's probably going to have little or no deterrent effect, certainly not a huge one. I have no doubts that there is probably some beneficial medical utilization for psilocybin."

In recent years, advocates have stressed the drug's success in helping war veterans, alcoholics and those with depression. During a recent public hearing before the Judiciary Committee, advocates sparred with GOP opponents.

State Rep. Tom O'Dea, R-New Canaan, recalling the public hearing, said he did not remember any medical doctors testifying in favor of using psilocybin in a "valid" clinical context. "The path of this is disastrous, in my humble opinion," he said.

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According to written testimony submitted to the committee, both the American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut, and a retired clinical psychologist favored the legislation. "There was testimony from a number of proponents of this bill about how they find benefits from this drug," Stafstrom said. "There also was a study done by the state of Connecticut a few years back that talked about some of the health benefits and I believe the FDA has been conducting its own research."

The state study, issued in February of 2022, found that research on psilocybin found it to be "a promising treatment for some behavioral health conditions, including substance use, depression, and palliative care for end-of-life anxiety and depression." The therapy is "effective when administered in highly structured settings under the supervision of a health care professional or professionals."

In November, State Police arrested 21-year-old Westen Soule of Burlington, Connecticut at his home and seized dozens of bags of psilocybin mushrooms valued at $8.5 million. According to the state Judicial Branch website, he is out on $250,000 bond awaiting to file a plea on two felony charges, with his next court date scheduled for April 26.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Canter Resources Corp. (CSE: CRC) (OTC Pink: CNRCF) (FSE: 6O1) ("Canter" or the "Company") is pleased to report that the Company has selected Cascade Drilling L.P. to complete shallow Geoprobe drilling at the Columbus Lithium-Boron Project ("Columbus" or the "Project"), located near Tonopah, Nevada.

The Company has received permits from the Nevada Division of Minerals for 10 planned Geoprobe drillholes that will be completed along pre-existing N-S and E-W gravel roads that cut through priority target areas at the Project. The Geoprobe drill campaign has been designed to collect both sediment and water samples from depths ranging between 3-30 metres (approximately 10-100 feet) below surface.

"The shallow Geoprobe program compliments our upcoming exploration well drilling as part of Phase I work and will provide us with another valuable dataset at Columbus," stated Joness Lang, CEO of Canter Resources. "Our primary lithium-enriched aquifer targets are at more moderate depths; however, this highly conductive upper interval is intriguing and if our first phase of Geoprobe drilling is successful we will consider shallow grid drilling to define the extent of near-surface mineralization."

Figure 1: Section view (3D model slice) of HSAMT modeling with Geoprobe and initial exploration well locations shown. A total of 10 Geoprobe drill holes are expected to be completed in Phase I.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Geoprobe drilling is a well-recognized low-impact and low-cost method for near-surface analysis. In addition to characterizing the interpreted shallow brine generation layer, the Geoprobe drilling will provide more structural and geochemical data from 15-45 m depths that will further inform the Company's geological model. Cascade Drilling L.P., a leading field services provider of environmental and geotechnical drilling, is set to mobilize to site in the coming weeks once sites are flagged in the field and final preparations are completed.

Corporate Update

After further evaluation, the Company has decided not to proceed with further expenditures or option payments to Eagle Plains Resources Ltd. relating to the Puzzle Lake Project in Saskatchewan and accordingly the Option Agreement on the Puzzle Lake Project will be terminated.

Qualified Person (QP)

The technical information contained in this news release was reviewed and approved by Eric Saderholm P.Geo, Director and Technical Advisor of Canter Resources, a Qualified Person (QP), as defined under National Instrument 43- 101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Canter Resources Corp.

Canter Resources Corp. is a Canadian junior mineral exploration company advancing the Columbus Lithium-Boron Project in Nevada, USA and the Beaver Creek Lithium Property in Montana, USA. The Company is preparing for a Phase I drill campaign at Columbus to test a highly prospective lithium-brine target and plans to leverage the Company's critical metals targeting database to generate a portfolio of high-quality projects with the aim of defining mineral resources that support the domestic clean energy supply chain in North America.

For further information contact:

Joness Lang

Chief Executive Officer

Canter Resources Corp.

jlang@canterresources.com

For investor inquiries contact:

Kristina Pillon, High Tide Consulting Corp.

Tel: 604.908.1695

investors@canterresources.com

The Canadian Securities Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203265

SOURCE: Canter Resources Corp.
This acquisition expands Woolpert's geospatial solutions footprint in Europe and supports the expansion and advancement of mapping technology and innovation.

DAYTON, Ohio, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Woolpert has acquired Murphy Geospatial, a multidisciplinary geospatial solutions company that is headquartered in Kilcullen, Ireland. Murphy Geospatial is a private, family-owned geospatial solutions company that delivers a broad range of services that include survey, mobile and indoor mapping, asset monitoring, subsurface engineering, and 3D digital twin development. The firm has a staff of nearly 400 across six offices in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Woolpert is a private, U.S.-based architecture, engineering, and geospatial firm that was founded in 1911 and has been providing comprehensive and integrated geospatial services for more than 50 years. Woolpert President Neil Churman said this acquisition is focused on the expansion and elevation of Woolpert's geospatial capabilities in Europe. This union will enable the companies to align best practices, leverage operational efficiencies, and advance services that include survey, reality capture, BIM, asset monitoring, GIS, and all forms of mapping.

"Over the last four decades, Murphy Geospatial has solidified itself as an innovative geospatial partner throughout Ireland, the UK, and the surrounding regions," Churman said. "Together with Murphy Geospatial, Woolpert will expand its geospatial presence in Europe to improve our offering to customers, accelerate next-level solutions, and provide vital support to the infrastructure, manufacturing, construction, property, utility, and natural environment sectors."

Murphy Geospatial CEO Niall Murphy and his team will continue to lead Murphy Geospatial, a Woolpert Company, in strategic alignment with Woolpert. Murphy said the companies share a dedication to client service, geospatial innovation, industry leadership, and employee culture.

"We are thrilled to be joining forces with the Woolpert team," Murphy said. "Their long-standing history in the geospatial sector and commitment to creating a great place to work for employees makes them an ideal match for us. We look forward to taking this next step to better serving our valued clients and advancing the industry together."

About Murphy Geospatial

Founded over 40 years ago, Murphy Geospatial now has six offices across the UK and Ireland and employs nearly 400 experts who have delivered more than 27,000 projects. Murphy Geospatial captures, collates, verifies, and governs geospatial data, enabling its clients to make informed decisions to increase efficiencies, reduce risk, and enhance value across the project life cycle. Setting the standards in the industry, Murphy Geospatial delivers geospatial certainty you can trust. With proven geospatial solutions through the design, construction, and in-use phases of projects across six key sectors; Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Property, Natural Environment, Energy and Utilities. Services include geospatial consultancy, aerial/UAV surveys, BIM, digital construction, topographical surveys, laser scanning, property surveys, rail surveys, structural and environmental monitoring, subsurface investigation and more.

About Woolpert

Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG), and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private, and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is a Global Top 100 Geospatial Company, a Top 100 ENR Global Design firm, has earned seven Great Place to Work certifications, and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity, and respect. Founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, Woolpert has been America's fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. Woolpert has over 2,000 employees and more than 60 offices on five continents. Visit woolpert.com .

Media contacts:

Woolpert: Jill Kelley; 937-531-1258, jill.kelley@woolpert.com

Murphy Geospatial: Kirsty Ostell; 0191 2325690, kirsty@o.agency

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VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ATHA Energy Corp. (TSXV: SASK) (FRA: X5U) (OTCQB: SASKF) ("ATHA") is pleased to announce that the Federal Court of Australia (the "Court") has made orders approving the previously announced Australian scheme (the "Scheme") involving ATHA and 92 Energy Limited (ASX: 92E) ("92 Energy"). The Scheme was previously announced in the news releases of ATHA dated December 7, 2023, and January 25, 2024.

The Managing Director of 92 Energy, Siobhan Lancaster, said: "The merger with ATHA begins a new chapter of opportunity for 92 Energy shareholders. With significant funding, an exceptional team in place, the Gemini discovery, Angilak's historical resource and the largest land package in the Athabasca and Thelon Basin, ATHA is set to accelerate exploration. 92 Energy has enjoyed significant exploration success since listing, culminating in its discovery of the GMZ, and I would like to thank the 92 Energy board, management, shareholders and advisors for their invaluable support and contributions."

Troy Boisjoli, Chief Executive Officer of ATHA, comments, "We are thrilled with the overwhelming level of support from 92 Energy's shareholders in the previously announced vote to approve the transaction. On behalf of ATHA's board and management I would like to express the Company's appreciation for the confidence 92 Energy's shareholders have shown for our vision of creating a Company that is a global leader in uranium exploration and project development. With the recently completed transaction of Latitude Uranium and the acquisition of 92 Energy, ATHA has unparallel access to exceptional post discovery projects, dominant land packages in regions containing the world's highest grade uranium deposits and mines, along with a combined team that has a track record of success when it comes to discovery and development of uranium assets. These technical attributes are backed by a highly experienced capital markets team, which has the Company in a strong financial position where we can continue to execute our prime objective - discovering and developing the world's next generation of uranium assets."

Although Court approval has been obtained, the Scheme will not become legally effective until the Court orders are lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (expected to occur on March 28, 2024 (Australia Time)).

Implementation of the Scheme is expected to occur on Thursday, April 11, 2024 (Australia Time).

For additional information on the Scheme, please refer to ATHA's news releases dated December 7, 2023, and January 25, 2024, and March 25, 2024.

About ATHA

ATHA is a Canadian mineral company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, and development of uranium assets in the pursuit of a clean energy future. With a strategically balanced portfolio including two 100%-owned post discovery uranium projects (the Angilak Deposit located in Nunavut and CMB Discoveries in Labrador hosting historical resource estimates of 43.3 million lbs and 14.5 million lbs U3O8 respectively) and the largest cumulative prospective exploration land package (6.5 million acres) in two of the world's most prominent basins for uranium discoveries, ATHA is well positioned to drive value. ATHA also holds a 10% carried interest in key Athabasca Basin exploration projects operated by NexGen Energy Ltd. and IsoEnergy Ltd. 1,2,3

For more information visit www.athaenergy.com.

For more information, please contact:

Troy Boisjoli

Chief Executive Officer

Email: info@athaenergy.com

1-236-521-0526

www.athaenergy.com

Neither the TSXV nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) 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.

Historical Mineral Resource Estimates

All mineral resources estimates presented in this news release are considered to be "historical estimates" as defined under NI 43-101, and have been derived from the following (See notes below). In each instance, the historical estimate is reported using the categories of mineral resources and mineral reserves as defined by the CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Reserves, and mineral reserves at that time, and these "historical estimates" are not considered by ATHA to be current. In each instance, the reliability of the historical estimate is considered reasonable, but a Qualified Person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource, and ATHA is not treating the historical estimate as a current mineral resource. The historical information provides an indication of the exploration potential of the properties but may not be representative of expected results.

Notes on the Historical Mineral Resource Estimate for the Angilak Deposit:

This estimate is considered to be a "historical estimate" under NI 43-101 and is not considered by any of to be current. See below for further details regarding the historical mineral resource estimate for the Angilak Property. Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of mineral resources may be materially affected by geology, environment, permitting, legal, title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing or other relevant issues. The quality and grade of the reported inferred resource in this estimation are uncertain in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define these inferred resources as an indicated or measured mineral resource, and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in upgrading them to an indicated or measured resource category. Contained value metals may not add due to rounding. A 0.2% U3O8 cut-off was used. The mineral resource estimate contained in this press release is considered to be "historical estimates" as defined under NI 43-101 and is not considered to be current. The "historical estimate" is derived from a Technical Report entitled "Technical Report and Resource Update For The Angilak Property, Kivalliq Region, Nunavut, Canada", prepared by Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol. of APEX Geosciences, Robert Sim, B.Sc., P.Geo. of SIM Geological Inc. and Bruce Davis, Ph.D., FAusIMM of BD Resource Consulting Inc., dated March 1, 2013 for ValOre Metals Corp. As disclosed in the above noted technical report, the historical estimate was prepared under the direction of Robert Sim, P.Geo, with the assistance of Dr. Bruce Davis, FAusIMM, and consists of three-dimensional block models based on geostatistical applications using commercial mine planning software. The project limits area based in the UTM coordinate system (NAD83 Zone14) using nominal block sizes measuring 5x5x5m at Lac Cinquante and 5x3x3 m (LxWxH) at J4. Grade (assay) and geological information is derived from work conducted by Kivalliq during the 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 field seasons. A thorough review of all the 2013 resource information and drill data by a Qualified Person, along with the incorporation of subsequent exploration work and results, which includes some drilling around the edges of the historical resource subsequent to the publication of the 2013 technical report, would be required in order to verify the Angilak Property historical estimate as a current mineral resource. The historical mineral resource estimate was calculated in accordance with NI 43-101 and CIM standards at the time of publication and predates the current CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (May, 2014) and CIM Estimation of Mineral Resources & Mineral Reserves Best Practices Guidelines (November, 2019). A thorough review of all historical data performed by a Qualified Person, along with additional exploration work to confirm results would be required to produce a current mineral resource estimate prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. Notes on the Historical Mineral Resource Estimate for the Moran Lake Deposit:

Jeffrey A. Morgan, P.Geo. and Gary H. Giroux, P.Eng. completed a NI 43-101 technical report titled "Form 43-101F1 Technical Report on the Central Mineral Belt (CMB) Uranium Project, Labrador, Canada, Prepared for Crosshair Exploration & Mining Corp." and dated July 31, 2008, with an updated mineral resource estimate for the Moran Lake C-Zone along with initial mineral resources for the Armstrong and Area 1 deposits. They modelled three packages in the Moran Lake Upper C-Zone (the Upper C Main, Upper C Mylonite, and Upper C West), Moran Lake Lower C-Zone, two packages in Armstrong (Armstrong Z1 and Armstrong Z3), and Trout Pond. These mineral resources are based on 3D block models with ordinary kriging used to interpolate grades into 10 m x 10 m x 4 m blocks. A cut-off grade of 0.015% U3O8 was used for all zones other than the Lower C Zone which employed a cut-off grade of 0.035%. A thorough review of all historical data performed by a Qualified Person, along with additional exploration work to confirm results, would be required to produce a current mineral resource estimate prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 standards. Notes on the Historical Mineral Resource Estimate for the Anna Lake Deposit: The mineral resource estimate contained in this table is considered to be a "historical estimate" as defined under NI 43-101, and is not considered to be current and is not being treated as such. A Qualified Person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as current mineral resources. A qualified person would need to review and verify the scientific information and conduct an analysis and reconciliation of historical drill and geological data in order to verify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource. Reported by Bayswater Uranium Corporation in a Technical Report entitled "Form 43-101 Technical Report on the Anna Lake Uranium Project, Central Mineral Belt, Labrador, Canada", prepared by R. Dean Fraser, P.Geo. and Gary H. Giroux, P.Eng., dated September 30, 2009. A 3-dimensional geologic model of the deposit was created for the purpose of the resource estimate using the Gemcom/Surpac modeling software. A solid model was created using a minimum grade x thickness cutoff of 3 meters grading 0.03% U3O8. Intersections not meeting this cutoff were generally not incorporated into the model. The shell of this modeled zone was then used to constrain the mineralization for the purpose of the block model. Assay composites 2.5 meters in length that honoured the mineralized domains were used to interpolate grades into blocks using ordinary kriging. An average specific gravity of 2.93 was used to convert volumes to tonnes. The specific gravity data was acquired in-house and consisted of an average of seventeen samples collected from the mineralised section of the core. The resource was classified into Measured, Indicated or Inferred using semi-variogram ranges applied to search ellipses. All resources estimated at Anna Lake fall under the "Inferred" category due to the wide spaced drill density. An exploration program would need to be conducted, including twinning of historical drill holes in order to verify the Anna Lake Project estimate as a current mineral resource.

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, the receipt of the required regulatory, stock exchange and other approvals, and the ability of ATHA and 92 Energy to successfully close the Scheme and the timing for same.

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 and 92 Energy to satisfy the conditions imposed in connection with the completion of the Scheme, completion of the Scheme, receipt of required regulatory and stock exchange approvals, the ability of ATHA and 92 Energy 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 92 Energy 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.

Such statements represent the current views of ATHA and 92 Energy with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by ATHA and 92 Energy, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political, and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to the following: inability of ATHA and 92 Energy to complete the Scheme or satisfy certain conditions precedent thereto; a material adverse change in the timing of any completion and the terms and conditions upon which the Scheme is completed; inability to satisfy or waive all conditions to closing the Scheme; the TSXV not providing approval to the Scheme and all required matters related thereto; the inability of the consolidated entity to realize the benefits anticipated from the Scheme and the timing to realize such benefits, including the exploration and drilling targets; unanticipated changes in market price for ATHA shares and/or 92 Energy shares; changes to ATHA's and/or 92 Energy's current and future business and exploration plans and the strategic alternatives available thereto; growth prospects and outlook of the business of each of ATHA and 92 Energy; treatment of the Scheme under applicable competition laws and the Investment Canada Act; regulatory determinations and delays; any impacts of COVID-19 on the business of the consolidated entity and the ability to advance its projects; stock market conditions generally; demand, supply and pricing for uranium; and general economic and political conditions in Canada and other jurisdictions where the applicable party conducts business. Other factors which could materially affect such forward-looking information are described in the filings of ATHA with the Canadian securities regulators which are available on ATHA's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, and filings of 92 Energy with the Australian regulatory authorities. Neither ATHA nor 92 Energy undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
Fidelity Emerging Markets Ltd - Completion of Tender Offer

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, March 27

NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO AUSTRALIA, CANADA OR JAPAN OR ANY JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION.

Fidelity Emerging Markets Limited

(the "Company")

Legal Entity Identifier: 213800HWWQPUJ4K1GS84

Completion of Tender Offer

The Company announces that the acquisition by the Company of 13,531,881 participating redeemable preference shares (the "Shares") pursuant to the tender offer commenced by the Company on 22 February 2024 (the "Tender Offer") has now been completed, with all Shares being repurchased by the Company and cancelled.

It is expected that the consideration payable in respect of the Shares accepted in the Tender Offer will be despatched today to Shareholders who have validly tendered Shares.

Following the repurchase and cancellation of the tendered Shares by the Company, the Company's issued share capital (excluding 827,399 shares held in treasury) consists of 76,739,846 Shares and 1,000 founder shares. Therefore, as from today, total voting rights in the Company are 76,740,846.

The above total voting rights figure (76,740,846) 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 Financial Conduct Authority's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

For further information, please contact:

Fidelity International George Bayer +44 (0)20 7961 4240 Jefferies International Limited (Joint broker) Gaudi Le Roux Harry Randall Ollie Nott +44 (0)20 7029 8000 J.P. Morgan Cazenove (Joint broker) William Simmonds Rupert Budge +44 (0) 20 3493 8000

Capitalised terms used but not defined in this announcement will have the same meaning as set out in the Circular.

This announcement or any part of it does not constitute or form part of any offer to issue or sell, or the solicitation of an offer to acquire, purchase or subscribe for, any securities.

The full terms and conditions of the Tender Offer are set out in the Circular, which shareholders are advised to read in full.

Each of J.P. Morgan Securities plc, which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the FCA and the Prudential Regulation Authority in the UK, and Jefferies International Limited, which is authorised and regulated in the UK by the FCA, are acting as Joint Tender managers, and are acting exclusively for the Company and no one else in connection with this announcement and the Tender Offer and will not regard any other person as its client in relation to the Tender Offer and accordingly will not be responsible to anyone other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to its clients, or for providing advice in connection with the Tender Offer, the contents of this announcement or any other transaction, arrangement or other matter referred to in this announcement as relevant.

Apart from the responsibilities and liabilities, if any, which may be imposed on the Joint Tender Managers under FSMA or the regulatory regime established thereunder, or under the regulatory regime of any jurisdiction where the exclusion of liability under the relevant regulatory regime would be illegal, void or unenforceable: (i) neither of the Joint Tender Managers or any persons associated or affiliated with either of them accepts any responsibility whatsoever or makes any warranty or representation, express or implied, in relation to the contents of this announcement, including its accuracy, completeness or verification or for any other statement made or purported to be made by, or on behalf of it, the Company or the directors, in connection with the Company and/or the Tender Offer; and (ii) each of the Joint Tender Managers and each of their respective affiliates accordingly disclaims, to the fullest extent permitted by law, all and any liability whatsoever, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise (save as referred to above) which they might otherwise be found to have in respect of this announcement or any such statement. No representation or warranty, express or implied, is made by any of the Joint Tender Managers or any of their respective affiliates as to the accuracy, completeness, verification or sufficiency of the information set out in this announcement, and nothing in this announcement will be relied upon as a promise or representation in this respect, whether or not as to the past or future.

Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements

This announcement includes statements that are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control and all of which are based on the directors' current beliefs and expectations about future events. Forward-looking statements are sometimes identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believe", "expect", "may", "will", "would", "could", "should", "shall", "risk", "intend", "estimate", "aim", "plan", "predict", "continue", "assume", "positioned", "anticipate", "hope" or "target" or the negative thereof, other variations thereon or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements and other statements contained in this announcement regarding matters that are not historical facts involve predictions and by their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to future events and circumstances. No assurance can be given that such future results will be achieved; actual events or results may differ materially as a result of risks and uncertainties we face. Such risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to vary materially from the future results indicated, expressed, or implied in such forward-looking statements. The Company and the directors expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to update these forward-looking statements contained in the document to reflect any change in their expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which such statements are based unless required to do so by applicable law, the Prospectus Regulation Rules, the Listing Rules, or the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules of the FCA or Regulation (EU) 596/2014, which is part of UK law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended from time to time.

No statement in this announcement or incorporated by reference into this announcement is intended to constitute a profit forecast or profit estimate for any period, nor should any statement be interpreted to mean that earnings or earnings per share will necessarily be greater or less than those for the preceding financial periods of the Company.

Overseas Shareholders

The making of the Tender Offer in, or to persons who are citizens or nationals of, or resident in, jurisdictions outside the United Kingdom or to custodians, nominees or trustees for citizens, nationals or residents of jurisdictions outside the United Kingdom may be prohibited or affected by the laws of the relevant overseas jurisdiction. A shareholder who is a citizen or national of, or resident in, a jurisdiction outside the United Kingdom or the United States or a custodian, nominee or trustee for a citizen, national or resident of a jurisdiction outside the United Kingdom or the United States ("Overseas Shareholders"), should information themselves about and observe any applicable legal requirements. It is the responsibility of any such shareholder wishing to tender shares to satisfy itself, himself or herself as to the full observance of the laws of the relevant jurisdiction in connection therewith, including the obtaining of any governmental, exchange control or other consents which may be required, the compliance with other necessary formalities and the payment of any transfer or other taxes or other requisite payments due in such jurisdiction. Any such shareholder will be responsible for payment of any transfer or other taxes or other requisite payments such person may be required to pay. No steps have been taken to qualify the Tender Offer or to authorize the extending of the Tender Offer or the distribution of the Circular or any Tender Form in any territory outside the United Kingdom.

In particular, the Tender Offer is not being made, directly or indirectly, in or into, or by use of the mails of, or by any means or instrumentality (including, without limitation, facsimile transmission, telex, telephone and e-mail) of interstate or foreign commerce of, or any facilities of a national securities exchange of, Australia, Canada, Japan or South Africa or any other jurisdiction in which the same would be unlawful (each a "Restricted Jurisdiction") and the Tender Offer cannot be accepted by any such use, means, instrumentality or facility or from within any Restricted Jurisdiction. Accordingly, copies of the Circular, the Tender Forms and any related documents must not be mailed or otherwise distributed or sent in, into or from any Restricted Jurisdiction, including to shareholders with registered addresses in any Restricted Jurisdiction other than the mailing by the Company of the Circular for the purposes of giving notice of the Extraordinary General Meeting. Persons receiving such documents (including, without limitation, custodians, nominees and trustees) should not distribute, send or mail them in, into or from any Restricted Jurisdiction or use such mails or any such means, instrumentality or facility in connection with the Tender Offer, and so doing will render invalid any related purported acceptance of the Tender Offer. Persons wishing to tender pursuant to the Tender Offer must not use such mails or any such means, instrumentality or facility for any purpose directly or indirectly relating to any tender pursuant to the Tender Offer. Envelopes containing Tender Forms should not be postmarked in any Restricted Jurisdiction or otherwise despatched from any Restricted Jurisdiction and all shareholders who wish to participate in the Tender Offer must provide addresses outside any Restricted Jurisdiction for the remittance of cash or for the return of Tender Forms, share certificates and/or other documents of title.

If, in connection with making the Tender Offer, notwithstanding the restrictions described above, any person (including, without limitation, custodians, nominees and trustees), whether pursuant to a contractual or legal obligation or otherwise, forwards the Circular, any personalised Tender Form or any related documents in, into or from any Restricted Jurisdiction or uses the mails of, or any means or instrumentality (including, without limitation, facsimile transmission, telex, telephone and e-mail) of interstate or foreign commerce of, or any facilities of a national securities exchange of, any Restricted Jurisdiction in connection with such forwarding, such persons should (a) inform the recipient of such fact; (b) explain to the recipient that such action may invalidate any purported acceptance by the recipient; and (c) draw the attention of the recipient to this paragraph .

The provisions of this paragraph and any other terms of the Tender Offer relating to Overseas Shareholders may be waived, varied or modified as regards specific shareholders or on a general basis by the Joint Tender Managers in their absolute discretion, but only if they are satisfied that such waiver, variation or modification will not constitute or give rise to a breach of applicable securities or other laws. Subject to this, the provisions of this paragraph supersede any terms of the Tender Offer inconsistent herewith.

US Shareholders

The Tender Offer relates to securities in a non-US company which is registered in Guernsey with a listing on the London Stock Exchange, and is subject to the disclosure requirements, rules and practices applicable to companies listed in the UK, which differ from those of the United States in certain material respects. The Circular has been prepared in accordance with UK style and practice for the purpose of complying with the laws of England and Wales and the Listing Rules of the UK Financial Conduct Authority. US shareholders should read the Circular, including Part 3 and Part 4.

The Tender Offer is being made in the United States pursuant to Section 14(e) of, and Regulation 14E under, the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "US Exchange Act") or any no action or exemptive relief granted by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of the Listing Rules. Accordingly, the Tender Offer is subject to disclosure and other procedural requirements that are different from those applicable under US domestic tender offer procedures.

US shareholders should note that the Company is not listed on a US securities exchange, is not subject to the periodic reporting requirements of the US Exchange Act and is not required to, and does not, file any reports with the SEC thereunder.

It may be difficult for US shareholders to enforce certain rights and claims arising in connection with the Tender Offer under US federal securities laws since the Company is located outside the United States and its officers and directors reside outside the United States. It may not be possible to sue a non-US company or its officers or directors in a non-US court for violations of US securities laws. It also may not be possible to compel a non-US company or its affiliates to subject themselves to a US court's judgment.

To the extent permitted by applicable law and in accordance with normal UK practice, the Company, the Joint Tender Managers or any of their respective affiliates, may make certain purchases of, or arrangements to purchase, Shares outside the United States during the period in which the Tender Offer remains open for acceptance, including sales and purchases of Shares effected by the Joint Tender Managers acting as market maker in the Shares. These purchases, or other arrangements, may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. In order to be excepted from the requirements of Rule 14e-5 under the US Exchange Act by virtue of relief granted by the SEC Rule 14e-5(b)(12) thereunder, such purchases, or arrangements to purchase, must comply with applicable English law and regulation, including the Listing Rules of the UK Financial Conduct Authority, and the relevant provisions of the US Exchange Act. Any information about such purchases will be disclosed as required in the UK and the United States and, if required, will be reported via a Regulatory Information Service and available on the London Stock Exchange website at www.londonstockexchange.com. To the extent that such information is made public in the United Kingdom, this information will also be publicly available to Shareholders in the United States.

The receipt of cash pursuant to the Tender Offer by a shareholder who is a US Holder (as defined in the Circular) will be a taxable transaction for US federal income tax purposes. In addition, as described in Section B of Part 4 of the Circular, US Holders may be subject to US backup withholding and information reporting on payments with respect to the Tender Offer made (or deemed made) within the United States. Part 4 of the Circular further sets forth certain US federal income tax consequences of the Tender Offer under current US law. However, each shareholder should consult and seek individual advice from an appropriate professional adviser.

In addition, it is a violation of Rule 14e-4 under the US Exchange Act ("Rule 14e-4") for a person acting alone or in concert with others, directly or indirectly, to tender shares for such person's own account unless at the time of tender and at the latest time and date to submit Tender Forms and submission of TTE Instructions from shareholders such person has a "net long position" in (a) the shares that is equal to or greater than the amount tendered and will deliver or cause to be delivered such shares for the purpose of tendering to us within the period specified in the Tender Offer or (b) other securities immediately convertible into, exercisable for or exchangeable into shares ("Equivalent Securities") that is equal to or greater than the amount tendered and, upon the acceptance of such tender, will acquire such shares by conversion, exchange or exercise of such Equivalent Securities to the extent required by the terms of the Tender Offer and will deliver or cause to be delivered such shares so acquired for the purpose of tender to us within the period specified in the Offer. Rule 14e-4 also provides a similar restriction applicable to the tender or guarantee of a tender on behalf of another person. As such, a tender of shares made pursuant to any method of delivery set forth herein will also constitute the tendering shareholder's representation and warranty to us that (a) such shareholder has a "net long position" in shares or Equivalent Securities at least equal to the shares being tendered within the meaning of Rule 14e-4, and (b) such tender of shares complies with Rule 14e-4.

Neither the SEC nor any US state securities commission has approved or disapproved of this transaction or passed upon the merits of fairness of such transaction or passed upon the adequacy of the information contained in this announcement. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offence.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Temas Resources Corp. ("Temas" or the "Company") (CSE:TMAS)(OTCQB:TMASF) is pleased to report that it has entered into an option agreement (the "Option Agreement") to acquire a 100% interest in the La Blache Lake Extension Property (the "Property"). The Property is the ground immediately west and along trend from Temas's Farrell-Taylor mineralization on the La Blache property and includes the Hervieux-Est and Hervieux-Ouest mineralization.

The combination of the La Blache and the La Blache Lake Extension projects consolidates into one package the known mineralization in the trend. The Property adds 44 claims / 2,432.25 Ha to the main claim block of the La Blache project. These claims are all within the La Blache anorthosite complex, within anorthosite, leucotroctolite or leuconorite, along the fold hinge of a regional anticline. Mineralization appears to occur sub-parallel to this axis, with mineralization at Hervieux-Ouest, Hervieux-Est and Schmoo Lake being added to Farrell-Taylor and Farrell-Mason lenses already in the Temas claims.

Tim Fernback, President of Temas comments, "With the positive results of the PEA, we are excited to further refine our understanding of the best path forward for the development of the combined La Blache project. By adding the additional mineralization, optionality opens up on the best approach and overall path to development. There is still a lot of work to do on the Farrell-Taylor, but we are keen to apply what we have already learned to this part of the trend."

Pursuant to the Option Agreement, to acquire a 100% interest in the Property; Temas must issue an aggregate of $275,000 (CAD) in common shares and pay an aggregate of $350,000 (CAD) in cash over a 48th month period based on the following payment schedule.

$50,000 cash and, $75,000 in common shares upon non-objection by the Canadian Securities Exchange of the Option Agreement (the "Approval Date").

$75,000 cash and, $50,000 in common shares on the 12 month anniversary of the Approval Date

$75,000 cash and, $50,000 in common shares on the 24 month anniversary of the Approval Date

month anniversary of the Approval Date $75,000 cash and, $50,000 in common shares on the 36 month anniversary of the Approval Date

$75,000 cash and, $50,000 in common shares on the 48 month anniversary of the Approval Date

The claims will carry with them a 2% net smelter return royalty (the "NSR"), of which NSR. 50% NSR can be purchased for $1,500,000 CAD at the election of Temas.

The Property contains historic estimates on the Hervieux-Est and Hervieux-Ouest mineralization. This historic estimate would be best approximated as comparable to an inferred resource by modern standards, but modifications to resource estimation in 2014 were not applied to the resource estimation process and may change what constitutes resource material in a current estimate. This historical estimate was not verified by a qualified person. It should only be considered as an indication of the mineral potential and not necessarily indicative of the contained mineralization on these newly optioned claims. It was previously held by Argex Titanium Inc., which in 2011 published the report "Preliminary Economic Assessment on the La Blache Fe-Ti-V Project", with an effective date of October 12 , 2011 and filed December 13, 2011. In this report, they published resource estimates on both Hervieux-Est and Hervieux-Ouest:

Volume Tonnes Ti % V % Fe Hervieux-Est Measured 538,000 2,458,000 11.10 0.24 44.18 Indicated 2,265,000 10,343,000 11.07 0.24 43.99 M & I 2,803,000 12,801,000 11.08 0.24 44.02 Inferred 2,189,000 9,883,000 10.93 0.23 43.41 Hervieux-Ouest Measured 1,275,000 5,822,000 1128 0.25 43.97 Indicated 3,003,000 13,646,000 11.26 0.26 43.98 M & I 4,278,000 19,470,000 11.27 0.26 43.98 Inferred 1,034,000 4,700,000 11.17 0.27 43.36

Where: Price V2O5 = $14500/t, Price TiO2 = $2500/t, Recovery V = 90%, Recovery TiO2 = 85%

As this estimate was calculated in 2011, it did follow CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, but it was based on the 2005 version of the definition and standards.

QUALIFIED PERSONS

Bertrand Brassard, P.Geo is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, is a member of the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained within this press release.

Rory Kutluoglu, P. Geo is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained within this press release.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Tim Fernback, President & CEO

About Temas Resources

Temas Resources Corp. (CSE:TMAS)(OTCQB:TMASF) is focused on the advanced La Blache and Lac Brule Iron-Titanium-Vanadium projects in Quebec. The critical metals the Company is exploring for are key to our national mineral independence. Additionally, the Company invests in and works to apply its green mineral recovery technologies across its mining portfolio to reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprint of metal extraction through advanced processing and patented leaching technologies.

All public filings for the Company can be found on the SEDAR+ website www.sedarplus.ca. For more information about the Company, please visit www.temasresources.com.

For further information or investor relations inquiries:



Tim Fernback

President and CEO

tfernback@shaw.ca

or

KIN Communications Inc.

Tel: 604-684-6730

tmas@kincommunications.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

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.

This news release includes certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "would", "could", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information relate to, among other things: the exploration, development, and production at the Company's mineral projects; non-objection of the Option Agreement; and exercise of the option pursuant to the terms of the Option Agreement

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 metals; no escalation in the severity of public health pandemics; 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.

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: 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 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; and the factors identified in the Company's public disclosure documents. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Temas Resources Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Rockland Resources Ltd. (the "Company" or "Rockland") (CSE:RKL) announces it has uncovered drill hole data dating back to the 1930's from its 100% owned Cole Gold Mines Property. The Cole Gold Mines project is located in the western portion of the prolific Red Lake gold district of northwestern Ontario.

A deep dive into public historical records for the project has found data from a drill hole completed in the 1930's, among other occurrences still being processed, from a separate area than where past underground exploration had occurred at the Cole Gold Mines property. Hole DDH-12, drilled by Cole Gold Mines and located approximately 450 meters southwest from the historical underground workings, intersected over 3.5 meters of vein quartz in schist with gold values in quartz and visible gold in the fractures. This surface hole was drilled to the southeast at a -60 dip, and is very shallow, at only 39 meters in depth, with the intercept approximately halfway down the hole.

Copies of these historic reports and maps can be seen at www.rocklandresources.com.

The importance of this drill hole was noted in a 1953 report* by Wilfred P. Mackle, Mining Engineer, when describing an interpreted fold located southwest of the mine shaft area, with an axis striking northeast: "It is along the axis of this fold that the ore bodies located occur and a further significant feature is provided by DDH-12 from surface which indicated the possibility of a major ore occurrence striking parallel to the fold axis as opposed to the ore bodies in the shaft area which strike roughly east-west. I rather emphasize the importance of this fold pattern because it is a very important feature of the Cochenour-Campbell-Dickenson ore deposits, and probably also with the Madsen area, and the conclusive evidence of a major fold occurring in the proximity of the presently known ore bodies is, in my opinion, of major significance."

Limited drilling by Rockland in 2021, cut short by forest fires in the region, did not test this intercept or the vicinity at all, as it was not known due to government restrictions of in-person access to the local Red Lake-Ontario Geological Survey archives during COVID.

In addition to this new area of exploration potential, the 1953 Mackle Report was also very positive when describing the Cole Gold Mine underground exploration: "The above underground development was productive in opening up a total length of 2030 lineal feet of ore with a possible grade of 0.452 oz. across a width of 45 inches. From observations of the surface ore exposures and a study of the underground assay plans, I am of the opinion that systematic test holing and subsequent slashing of the drift walls would increase the widths considerably and with little or no drop in the grade averages. The values are not confined to a ribbon like vein structure but in zones of silicification and narrow lenticular quartz veins, more or less en echelon, and with the exception of a few cross cuts and some widespread slashing of the drift walls, I do not feel that all the width possibilities have been determined". In the conclusion of the report, when describing this underground development, the author states: "The many parallel gold bearing zones is, in the opinion of the writer, a most important feature. As shown on the cross section there are nine (9) gold bearing zones indicated across a horizontal width of 750 feet. On surface there are as many more and all warrant attention".

Mike England, CEO of Rockland Resources states: "Discovering this drill hole from the 1930's can be a game changer for our Cole Gold Mines Project. Even with the limited mapping and assay methods of that day, historic indications of significant gold runs are highly positive for the project. We continue to delve into the historical reports and look forward to updating the database, as well as shareholders, as we head into the 2024 field season."

*The historical estimates do not meet current standards as defined by NI 43-101 and therefore should not be relied upon.

The Company also continues to compile historical geophysical and geological data over the Pipestone North property in preparation of a summer field program, in conjunction with the Cole Gold Mines property.

Matthew Long, P. Geo., a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101, is the qualified person responsible for reviewing and approving the geological contents of this news release as they pertain to the Cole Gold Mines property.

*Mackle, W. P. (Mining Engineer), 1953, Report On Cole Mines Ltd., Unpublished Report, Resident Geologist Office, Red Lake, ON, 9 pages. Rockland has not confirmed the historic data and conclusions contained herein.

About Rockland Resources Ltd.

Rockland Resources is engaged in the business of mineral exploration and the acquisition of mineral property assets for the benefit of its shareholders.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Michael England, CEO & Director

For further information, please contact:

Mike England

Email: mike@engcom.ca

Neither the Canadian Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at WWW.SEDAR.COM).

SOURCE: Rockland Resources Ltd.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Officiating guests host kick-off ceremony for the collaboration between ALO & EdUHK

Mr. Peter TSANG Cheung, JP, the founder of ALO, delivers welcome speech at the event.

Professor John LEE Chi Kin, JP, President of EdUHK, delivers speech on the collaboration with ALO at the event.

Guest speakers at the sharing session

The AI avatar of Dr. Kevin YUNG Wai Ho, from EdUHK, generated by ALO using artificial intelligence.

HONG KONG, Mar 26, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - ALO Parent Education App/Digital Platform (ALO) is collaborating with The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) to provide greater support for students with special educational needs (SEN) and their parents. Celebrating its one-year anniversary, ALO has announced significant system updates and an expansion of its content, including collaboration with the Hong Kong Police Force to promote child protection messages. To mark this momentous occasion, ALO organized the "ALO and EdUHK Collaboration " Launch Ceremony and Inaugural Seminar. The event not only unveiled the scope and direction of the collaboration with EdUHK but also featured accomplished professionals from the education sector sharing insights on different topics, including the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of education. Representative from the Hong Kong Police Force was also present to promote child protection messages. Distinguished guests in attendance included Mr. Jeff SZE Chun Fai, JP, Under Secretary for Education; Professor Kenneth SIN Kuen Fung, MH, EdUHK; Ms. YU Hoi Kwan, Chief Superintendent of Police (Crime Support); Mr. Eugene FONG Yick-jin, Chairman of Committee on Home-School Co-operation; Mr. Henry TONG Sau-Chai, MH, JP, Vice Chairman of HKTA The Yuen Yuen Institute; Dr. Kevin YUNG Wai Ho, EdUHK; and Mr. CM CHUNG, Principal of Shanghai Alumni Primary School, among others.The officiating guest, Mr. Jeff SZE Chun Fai, JP, Under Secretary for Education, expressed, "I am pleased to attend the 'ALO and EdUHK Collaboration' Launch Ceremony and Inaugural Seminar, and also celebrate ALO's first anniversary. It is gratifying to witness the continuous improvement of the ALO Parent Education App/Digital Platform over the past year, as well as its efforts to connect with more schools to expand services and enhance the quality of parental education in Hong Kong. Additionally, I am delighted to see the collaboration between ALO and EdUHKm that enables parents to systematically learn effective parenting methods and knowledge through the digital platform. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the ALO team and EdUHK for their ongoing efforts and contributions to parental education.""ALO utilises artificial intelligence technology and combines it with the expertise and experience of the EdUHK team. For parents of students with special educational needs, the journey of parenting is never smooth. The Education Bureau attaches great importance to parental education. The care and love of parents, along with the guidance and support of schools, are crucial for nurturing children's growth. The Education Bureau is committed to supporting parents with diverse needs, including initiatives such as the "Smart Parent Net" information platform and the "SENSE" website. These platforms provide essential information for supporting students' physical and mental development, as well as practical information and videos to assist parents in caring for children with special educational needs, helping them establish a positive parent-child relationship and promote children's overall development. The successful implementation of parental education relies on the support and collaboration from various stakeholders. The collaboration between ALO, EdUHK, and the Hong Kong Police Force serves as a testament to the importance of interdisciplinary and cross-professional cooperation. In the days ahead, I hope that we can continue to work together to enhance society's emphasis on parental education, creating a joyful and healthy learning and growth experience for children, enabling them to enjoy learning, unleash their potential, and fully develop their strengths," Jeff added.Mr. Peter TSANG Cheung, JP, the founder of ALO, stated, "Since its launch in 2023, ALO has been serving for a year. I would like to express my gratitude to all colleagues for their hard work, as well as the support and encouragement from the society. ALO has achieved significant milestones during this time. We have garnered participation from over 100 schools and received positive feedback from principals and teachers responsible for parent education, who are eager for the speedy activation of ALO. We are committed to continuously gathering feedback and improving the platform's content quality and quantity, enhancing functionality and user experience, and expanding our range of services. In the upcoming enhanced version, ALO 4.0, we will introduce new categories such as 'Special Education,' 'National Education,' and 'Law-abidingness Education.' Through collaborations with various partners, we aim to provide more authoritative content. Notably, ALO will collaborate with EdUHK to launch the Parent Education and Special Education Certificate Course. We are also grateful for our collaboration with the Hong Kong Police Force in promoting child protection messages to the public. Looking ahead, we anticipate ALO's continued engagement with diverse sectors of society in creating a happier and more nurturing environment for the next generation."Collaboration with EdUHK to launch Parent Education and Special Education Certificate Courses, seizing the "golden period" to provide support for SEN StudentsTo better support SEN students, it is essential to identify and intervene during the critical "golden period" between the ages of 3 and 6. Accessing support services early on greatly enhances their integration into the mainstream education system. However, the demand for SEN support services currently surpasses the available supply in Hong Kong. Consequently, parents face significant pressure and may experience emotional difficulties due to the caregiving responsibilities involved. In this collaboration, EdUHK is supporting ALO to address the unique learning needs of SEN students. Together, they are launching Parent Education and Special Education Certificate Course, which aims to provide tailored support to SEN students and facilitate their seamless integration into the mainstream education system.Regarding this collaboration, Professor John LEE Chi Kin, JP, President of EdUHK, expressed, "In the process of children's holistic development, parents play a crucial role. Currently, the EdUHK's teacher training programs also cover topics related to parent education, including communication with children, parent-school cooperation, and parental support. At the same time, EdUHK is actively developing various educational resources, such as e-learning materials for special education, to assist parents in teaching their children at home. I am delighted that the EdUHK team from the Institute of Special Needs and Inclusive Education (ISNIE) will collaborate with ALO to provide information and training on special education. This collaboration will enable parents to better understand their children's needs, abilities, interests, and aspirations, fostering their growth in a positive environment. I sincerely wish for the steady development of the collaboration between EdUHK and ALO, jointly promoting parent education and the holistic development of students."Seminar centered around two key topics: the application of AI in education and how to create an ideal environment for children's growthALO's inaugural seminar focused on two key topics: the application of AI in education and creating a better growth environment for children to unleash their potential. The development of AI has brought revolutionary changes to our daily lives, and ALO, as an easy-to-use and digitally-driven interactive platform, keeps up with the times by actively incorporating AI elements to enhance content quality and comprehensively address the challenges of parenting and education in Hong Kong. During the seminar, ALO showcased examples of AI applications, such as the introduction of a virtual teacher avatar function and an AI-powered video generation platform. These innovations significantly reduce teachers' workload, enhance students' learning motivation, and greatly increase teaching flexibility. For instance, teachers no longer need to regularly record videos for students learning at home. Instead, they can simply input the content and generate videos using generative AI. Dr. Kevin YUNG Wai Ho from EdUHK demonstrated how artificial intelligence can facilitate self-directed learning at the event.Dr. Kevin YUNG Wai Ho, from EdUHK, discussed the role of AI in instructional transformation, stating, "Artificial intelligence brings significant autonomous motivation to students in teaching. Its advantages include providing personalized instruction, adaptive learning, 24/7 availability of services, supporting the role of teachers, meeting the needs of non-mainstream and special education, avoiding human bias, and providing real-time feedback/actions." Dr. Kevin Yung also mentioned that he has personally witnessed the impressive generation of AI virtual characters, whose lip movements and body gestures are very natural. This has made him look forward to the greater contributions that ALO can make in education in the future.Mr. CM CHUNG, Principal of Shanghai Alumni Primary School, shared practical examples of AI integration in teaching and expressed, " Shanghai Alumni Primary School has been implementing ALO for some time, and indeed, artificial intelligence brings revolutionary new learning modes and educational methods, providing practical assistance for school operations. Teachers can pre-record videos, input text content, and automatically generate videos with teaching presentations, significantly reducing time costs. For students with special educational needs, the teaching pace or replay can be adjusted according to their needs and absorption abilities. Particularly during the peak of influenza season, even if teachers are absent due to illness, substitute teachers can easily access teaching materials from the intranet, ensuring smooth progression of the curriculum."Professor Kenneth SIN Kuen Fung, MH, from EdUHK, shared insights on assisting underprivileged students in unleashing their potential, remarking, " In recent years, Hong Kong adopts a dual-track mode in providing special education, resulting in an increasing number of students with SEN attending mainstream schools. In fact, many SEN students have exceptional talents. For example, a few years ago, an autistic athlete represented Hong Kong in the Special Olympics and won a gold medal. The truth is that many students have untapped talents, and with the use of technology, they can be discovered and nurtured, benefiting more students, schools, and teachers."Additionally, the event invited eight principals from kindergartens, primary schools, secondary schools, and special schools participate in sharing session. They shared their views on how parents and schools can collaborate to create a better growth environment for children, including Mr. Henry TONG Sau-Chai, MH, JP, Vice Chairman of HKTA The Yuen Yuen Institute; Mr SAU Hang-chor, Principal of Sam Shui Natives Association Lau Pun Cheung School; Ms. KAN Shuk-Ching, Principal of ELCHK Ma On Shan Lutheran Primary School; Mr. Paul CHEUK Tak-Kan, Principal of Tung Wan Mok Law Shui Wah School; Mr. CHEN Tak-Nam, Principal of Hoi Ping Chamber of Commerce Secondary School; Mr. Alan LAI Chun-Wing, Principal of HKTA The Yuen Yuen Institute No.3 Secondary School; Mr. CHU Ka-Tim, Principal of Shatin Pui Ying College; Mr. Eddie LAM Tak-Yuk, Principal of Tseung Kwan O Methodist Primary School; Ms. LI Wai-Man, Principal of S.K.H. Kindly Light Church Holy Carpenter Kindergarten Nursery; and Mr. Eugene FONG Yick-jin, Chairman of Committee on Home-School Co-operation.ALO's enhanced 4.0 version features a collaboration with the Hong Kong Police Force to promote child protection messages and advocate for the well-being of parents.ALO has continuously gathered feedback and expanded its service coverage, this includes collaborating with different government departments and university institutions to provide authoritative content, aiming to assist parents in various situations within the community. In response to the latest educational needs, ALO enhanced its 4.0 version by introducing the categories of 'National Education' and 'Law-abidingness Education.' Simultaneously, ALO collaborates with the Hong Kong Police Force to provide the latest information, such as Crime Prevention Alerts, and also promote messages related to child protection to the general public.Ms. YU Hoi Kwan, Chief Superintendent of Police (Crime Support), expressed her thoughts on the collaboration, stating, "I am delighted to collaborate with ALO through the 'Crime Alerts Network (CAN)' and 'SafeCity Ambassadors' initiatives, providing the platform with the latest crime prevention and child protection information. ALO's lively and engaging animations enhance public awareness of law-abidingness, allowing parents to familiarize themselves with legal knowledge and methods of seeking assistance in child protection. This collaboration complements the work of law enforcement agencies, working hand in hand to promote the safety and well-being of children."According to the Curriculum Framework on Parent Education by the Education Bureau, the four major categories of parent education include "Understanding of Child Development," "Promotion of Healthy, Happy and Balanced Development of Children," "Promotion of Parents' Physical and Psychological Well-being," and "Fostering Home-school Co-operation and Communication." However, the aspect of "Promotion of Parents' Physical and Psychological Well-being" is often overlooked. Recognizing this, ALO is committed to incorporating content in this category into its platform. Mr. Peter TSANG Cheung, JP, the founder of ALO, also shares his experience in practices such as "Stake-Standing" and Tai Chi Chuan, which he has cultivated over the years, through the ALO mobile application, aiming to promote the physical and mental well-being of the public, including parents, principals, teachers, and students.Looking ahead, Mr. Peter TSANG Cheung, JP, the founder of ALO, stated, "As an educator, one of the most important principles is to keep pace with the times and ensure that students acquire knowledge and skills that meet the needs of the era when they enter society. ALO, as an educational platform, has never stopped improving the quality and quantity of its content, optimizing functionality and user experience, and expanding its service coverage. We aim to provide the necessary assistance to parents facing various situations in society, enabling the next generation to grow up in a joyful and happy environment. In the future, ALO will stay true to its original mission of 'Unite Hong Kong to Support Parents; Build a Prosperous Society Through Positive Parenting,' contributing to the construction of a prosperous society in Hong Kong!"Photos download: https://bit.ly/3vf46x6About ALOEstablished in 2021, ALO is Hong Kong's first parent education digital app/platform system launched by the non-profit organization Children Social Network (CSN). Based on the Curriculum Framework on Parent Education launched by the Education Bureau (EDB) for kindergartens and primary schools, ALO creates authoritative, systematic as well as interesting multimedia positive parenting information, providing a holistic support for the promotion of parent education. The content covers four major aspects "understanding of child development", "promotion of healthy, happy and balanced development of children, "promotion of parents' physical and psychological well-being" and "fostering home school cooperation & communication."Supported by a team of education professionals responsible for planning, producing, supporting, and supervising the multimedia content for parent education, ALO responds flexibly to the need of modern parents on raising children, and offers a new space for home-school interaction, communication as well as experience sharing for local schools and parents. Together with different industry sectors, ALO is committed to working towards the future of children.This press release is issued by Strategic Communications Consultants Limited on behalf of ALO. For any enquiries, please contact:Strategic Communication Consulting Services Limited (SCC)Andico TsuiTel: 2114 4346 / 6902 3831Email: andico.tsui@sprg.com.hkFax: 2114 0880Source: ALOCopyright 2024 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
Siemens, Universal Robots (UR), and Zivid have joined forces to create a groundbreaking solution that streamlines warehouse automation and solves the persistent challenges of intra-logistics fulfillment tasks. The trio have been demonstrating this solution in recent trade shows and events, and will host a webinar titled "The Next-Generation Solution of Intra-Logistics Fulfillment" to showcase the solution on Thursday April 4.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327421732/en/

A collaborative robot arm from Universal Robots with Siemens' SIMATIC Robot Pick AI, a pre-trained, deep learning-based vision software, empowering robots to perform tasks previously limited to manual intervention. (Photo: Business Wire)

"We are excited to collaborate with Universal Robots and Zivid to introduce a game-changing solution for intra-logistics fulfillment," says Ignacio Moreno, Business Development Manager at Siemens. "By harnessing the power of advanced vision technology and industry-leading collaborative robotics, the SIMATIC Robot Pick AI is able to bring effortless picking to any environment."

The partnership represents a significant leap in solving the complex challenges faced by the logistics and e-commerce sectors. Modern fulfillment centers are characterized by the automated transport of large quantities and varieties of stock-keeping units (SKUs) and the new solution is specifically developed to offer the industry a reliable and trusted solution for the picking of these items, regardless of their shape, size, opacity, or transparency.

"There is a huge potential and significant demand for automation in fulfillment centers and the e-commerce industry. This solution provides our customers with the ease of use and integration one would expect from working with the top providers of vision, robotics, and detection software," says Daniel Friedman, Global Director, Strategic Partnerships at Universal Robots. "The collaboration with Siemens and Zivid signals our continued push into connecting our robot platform to AI technologies and is further testament to our dedication to delivering automation for anyone, anywhere."

The solution is composed of the latest cutting-edge technologies:

Siemens' SIMATIC Robot Pick AI, a pre-trained, deep learning-based vision software, empowering robots to perform tasks previously limited to manual intervention.

Universal Robots' UR20, with its extended reach and compact design, enabling automation of applications requiring the lifting of heavy objects over longer distances, while maintaining UR safety standards (The solution works seamlessly across the entire UR cobot family).

Zivid's innovative 2+ M130 camera is the first 3D sensor capable of imaging everything, including transparent and translucent items, expanding the accessibility and pick ability for e-commerce and fulfillment applications.

"By combining our 3D vision solution with Siemens and UR, we offer a robust solution that addresses the evolving needs of the logistics and e-commerce sectors," says Amy Landau, Product Marketing Engineer at Zivid. "Our collaboration opens new possibilities for the automation of reliable order picking, that can really be made accessible to anyone."

After also being demonstrated at selected tradeshows in Europe and North America in recent weeks, the solution will be presented in depth for the first time on April 4 at a webinar hosted by the trio. The webinar will be broadcast live from Universal Robots' headquarters in Odense, Denmark.

For more information on the webinar, visit:

https://app.livestorm.co/zivid/the-next-generation-solution-of-intra-logistics-fulfillment?type=detailed

The trusted, already-deployed solution will also be displayed at the Hannover Messe on April 22-26 and at Automate in Chicago May 6-9.

About Siemens:

Siemens AG is a global technology powerhouse that has stood for engineering excellence, innovation, quality, reliability, and internationality for more than 170 years. The company is active around the globe, focusing on the areas of electrification, automation, and digitalization.

About Universal Robots:

Universal Robots (UR) is a leading provider of collaborative robots (cobots) used across a wide range of industries. Since introducing the world's first commercially viable cobot in 2008, UR has developed a product portfolio reflecting a range of reaches and payloads and has sold over 75,000 cobots worldwide.

About Zivid:

Zivid is a market-leading provider of 3D machine vision cameras and software solutions for next-generation robotics automation. With Zivid's industry-leading 3D color cameras, businesses can quickly and easily improve efficiencies in industrial automation, ensuring faster production lines.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327421732/en/

Contacts:

For media inquiries, please contact:



Christopher Schuette

Siemens

christopher.schuette@siemens.com



Christoffer Voss

Universal Robots

pr@universal-robots.com



Marie Bodet

Zivid

Marie.bodet@zivid.com
DropSafe Sicura is the first and only fully passive safety needle in North America. Sicura designed to eliminate needlestick injuries, providing a safe injection experience, and is distributed by HTL-Strefa Inc., an MTD company.

JERSEY CITY, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / In response to the recent safety communications issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding concerns over plastic syringes and safety needles manufactured in China, HTL-Strefa Inc. is proud to offer healthcare providers, facilities, and consumers a safe and dependable alternative. Our FDA-cleared, European-produced passive safety needle, DropSafe Sicura, represents the pinnacle of safety, reliability, and performance, fully aligning with the highest standards of patient care and safety.

DropSafe Sicura Passive Safety Needle

HTL-Strefa Inc.'s new DropSafe Sicura passive safety needle is engineered and manufactured in our own European facility, adhering to stringent quality control measures. Our products are designed with both the healthcare provider and patient in mind, ensuring ease of use, minimal risk of needlestick injuries, and optimal safety during and after administration.

Launched in the U.S. and Canada in 2023, DropSafe Sicura Passive Safety Needle is unique in its design to eliminate needlestick injuries providing a safe injection experience. The needle is protected by a transparent shield that automatically locks after injection, requiring no additional activation step by the HCP post-injection.

**Addressing Current Challenges with Superior Quality and Capacity**

In light of the FDA's evaluation of quality and performance issues associated with certain plastic syringes and safety needles, HTL-Strefa Inc. recognizes the urgent need for reliable medical supplies. Our DropSafe Sicura passive safety needle is not only a testament to our commitment to safety, but also an assurance of our capability to meet the increased demand without compromising on quality or performance.

Carl Ward, General Manager of HTL-Strefa, Inc., emphasized the company's readiness, stating, "HTL-Strefa Inc. has the capacity and the infrastructure to support additional safety needle demand in the U.S. and Canada with the launch of DropSafe Sicura. We stand ready to assist healthcare systems in transitioning to safer, more reliable alternatives without any disruption to patient care."

** Committed to Supporting Healthcare Providers Through a Legacy of Excellence and Innovation**

With a history of excellence and innovation in medical technology, HTL-Strefa Inc. and its parent MTD Group have served the healthcare industry for over three decades. Our commitment to enhancing the safety and efficiency of clinical care has driven us to develop advanced technology, services, and solutions that support healthcare professionals and improve patient outcomes.

For more information on HTL-Strefa Inc's. Sicura Passive Safety Needle and our commitment to quality and safety, please visit https://dropsafe.info/products/dropsafe-sicura-passive-safety-needle-drug-delivery/ or contact our customer support team at 1-877-660-1900.

**About HTL-Strefa Inc. and MTD Group**

HTL-Strefa Inc. and its parent MTD Group are leading global medical technology companies specializing in the development, manufacture, and distribution of high-quality medical devices, including passive safety needles, lancets, and pen needles. With a strong focus on innovation, safety, and customer satisfaction, HTL-Strefa Inc. and MTD serve healthcare professionals and patients globally, aiming to improve healthcare outcomes and enhance the quality of life. For more information on HTL-Strefa Inc. and MTD Group, please visit https://mtdglobal.com/north-america/ or connect with us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/htlstrefainc/

**Contact Information:**

Emily Pupa

HTL-Strefa Inc.

113 Towne Lake Pkwy, Suite 120

Woodstock, GA 30188, USA

info@htl-strefa.com

770-528-0410

Contact Information

Emily Pupa

Director, Marketing

emily.pupa@htl-strefa.com

770-528-0410

SOURCE: HTL-Strefa Inc.

View the original press release on newswire.com.
MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Athena Bitcoin Global (OTC PINK:ABIT) ("Athena" or the "Company) a leading international operator of bitcoin ATMs and digital asset fintech solutions announced today that it has engaged investor relations specialists MZ Group ("MZ") to lead their comprehensive strategic investor relations and financial communications program.

MZ Group will work closely with Athena's management to build upon their investor relations and shareholder communication program.

Brian Prenoveau, CFA, Managing Director at MZ North America, will assist Athena Bitcoin in all facets of corporate and financial communications. MZ has developed a distinguished reputation as a premier resource for institutional investors, brokers, analysts, and private investors.

Athena Bitcoin operates an international network of Bitcoin ATMs and payment solutions. The company is dedicated to building open financial systems to serve the global community. Athena's solutions enable the freedom and opportunity to save, build, invest, spend, and to participate as sovereign individuals.

Matias Goldenhorn, CEO of Athena Bitcoin stated, "We are focused on democratizing financial access to the masses at Athena. We believe that having MZ as a partner will aide us in serving our customers by broadening our message to the investment community."

About MZ Group

MZ North America is the US division of MZ Group, a global leader in investor relations and corporate communications. MZ North America was founded in 1996 and provides full scale Investor Relations to both private and public companies across all industries. Supported by our exclusive one-stop-shop approach, MZ works with top management to support the clients' business strategy in six integrated product and service categories: 1) IR Consulting & Outreach - full service investor relations and roadshow services; 2) ESG iQ & Advisory - reporting technology platform and audit and reporting guidance; 3) SPAC Alpha IR+ & IPO Advisory - providing critical and timely guidance through business combinations and IPOs; 4) Financial & Social Media - lead generation and social media relations; 5) Market Intelligence - real time ownership monitoring; 6) Technology Solutions - webhosting, webcasting, conference calls, distribution services and board portals. MZ North America has a global footprint with offices located in New York, Chicago, San Diego, Aliso Viejo, Austin, Minneapolis, Taipei and Sao Paulo.

About Athena Bitcoin Global.

Athena Bitcoin Global operates an international network of Athena Bitcoin ATMs, which are free standing kiosks that permit customers to buy or sell Bitcoin in exchange for fiat currencies. The Company places its machines in convenience stores, shopping centers and other easily accessible locations in twenty-seven US states and territories, and in 4 countries in Central and South America. Athena Bitcoin Global's comprehensive fintech platform enables POS merchant payments powered by Athena Pay and the Company provides safe, reliable and personalized trading services through its Athena Plus services. To learn more visit www.athenabitcoin.com or follow Athena Bitcoin Global on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Contact:

Brian M. Prenoveau, CFA, 561 489 5315

MZ Group - MZ North America

ABIT@mzgroup.us

SOURCE: Athena Bitcoin Global

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Visionary Metals Corp. (TSXV: VIZ) (OTC Pink: VIZNF) ("Visionary" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has been recommended for funding of up to USD $1,000,000 from the Wyoming Energy Authority ("WEA") through its energy matching funds program. Visionary has proposed a total project budget of USD $3,085,000 and has committed to spending USD $2,085,000, over the next twelve months. The proposed proceeds will be used to advance the King Solomon Nickel Project and to evaluate the potential for additional critical and strategic mineral deposits in Central Wyoming. At the conclusion of the project, Visionary has agreed to produce a technical report detailing all findings and recommendations for future work programs, which will be shared with the WEA and Wyoming State Geologic Survey.

"It is great to be working in Wyoming, where leaders in government and innovative companies are working together to find new sources of critical and strategic minerals like nickel and cobalt and platinum group elements. These elements are used to make stainless steel, batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles, semi-conductors, catalytic converters, consumer electronics and other products which we consume, but do not produce in any abundance, domestically. The first step toward creating domestic circular supply chains for the strategic minerals used in these products is to locate and evaluate new resources and we're gratified that Wyoming is taking the initiative to support our exploration efforts."

About The King Solomon Nickel Project

The King Solomon Nickel Project represents the first known discovery of nickel sulfide in the State of Wyoming and the first new nickel discovery in decades in the western United States. The King Solomon deposit is the first of several nickel bearing ultramafic bodies identified during regional exploration along a structural corridor that has now been traced for 100 kilometres ("km") which Visionary intends to evaluate. These nickel bearing bodies of rock bear similar characteristics to other productive Archean nickel sulfide districts, which have disseminated mineralization near surface and high-grade massive sulfide mineralization at depth. The King Solomon Deposit was discovered on just the third drill hole of Visionary's 2022 drill program (See March, 6th, 2022 Press Release) and reverse circulation drilling in 2023 intercepted disseminated nickel mineralization in 12 out of 14 holes (see January 17th, 2024 Press Release).

Next Steps

In the coming months, Visionary plans to begin a regional Versatile Time Domain Electromagnetic ("VTEM") survey to target possible massive sulfide mineralization at Tin Cup, King Solomon, Black Rock and other unnamed targets within Visionary's land package. Diamond core drilling is expected to begin at King Solomon in July to determine accurate grades and widths of the broad zones of mineralization intercepted in Visionary's 2023 RC drill program, which intersected nickel mineralization in all but two drill holes. Drill programs at Tin Cup, Black Rock and other targets will be planned and executed after completion of the VTEM survey.

About Visionary Metals Corp

Visionary Metals Corp. is a Vancouver-based mineral exploration company focused on making new electric metals discoveries in Fremont County, Wyoming. Visionary's mission is to explore responsibly and to develop resources in a manner that is beneficial to all stakeholders. While central Wyoming has a strong mining history and favourable geologic conditions to host many types of metal deposits, it has never been systematically explored using modern techniques. The Company now controls a land package greater than 55 square kilometres with numerous drill ready targets, all accessible by road and within a one-hour drive from Visionary's US headquarters in Lander, Wyoming.

Contact:

Wesley Adams, Chief Executive Officer

Visionary Metals Corp.

407-325 Howe Street

Vancouver, BC V6C 1Z7

Tel: (303) 809-4668

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. These include, without limitation, statements with respect to: receipt of all of the WEA funds; Visionary's capital commitment of USD $2,085,000; conduct of a regional VTEM survey; conduct of a diamond core drilling program; and other potential exploration and development activities based on the results of the VTEM survey. Such forward-looking statements or information are based on a number of assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: the ability of the Company to raise sufficient funds to conduct its proposed exploration and development activities.

The actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors including: the Company may not raise sufficient funds to conduct its proposed exploration and development activities; the Company may determine not to proceed with certain planned activities; and general market and industry conditions. Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

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/203201

SOURCE: Visionary Metals Corp.
Annual Report and Annual General Meeting

CRAWLEY, UK / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / In compliance with Listing Rule 9.6.1, the Company announces that the following documents, in unedited full text, have today been filed with the Financial Conduct Authority and are available for inspection via the National Storage Mechanism at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism:

Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2023 (the Annual Report 2023);

Notice of 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM); and

Proxy Form for the 2024 Annual General Meeting.

The documents will be posted today and the Annual Report 2023 and the Notice of 2024 AGM have been published on the Company's website at rentokil-initial.com/investors.

The 2024 AGM will be held at, and broadcast via live webcast from, the Company's offices at Compass House, Manor Royal, Crawley, RH10 9PY on Wednesday 8 May 2024 at 11.30am. Full details of how to participate in the meeting can be found in the Notice of Meeting.

In addition, the Company has filed its Annual Report on Form 20-F with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The document is available for viewing on the SEC website at www.sec.gov and also on the Company's website at rentokil-initial.com/investors. If you would like to receive a hard copy of the Annual Report 2023 please contact the Company Secretariat team by email at secretariat@rentokil-initial.com or on +44 (0)1293 5800. There will be no charge for a copy to be sent to you.

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: Rentokil Initial plc

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Eviden's 17th Security Operations Center located in Mexico to leverage global cybersecurity capabilities for real, local impact

Paris, France - March 27, 2024 -Eviden, the Atos Groupbusiness leading in digital, cloud, big data and security, today announces the opening of its new Security Operations Centerto organizations across North and South America. The Mexico center is Eviden's 17thnext-generation SOC worldwide, ultimately strengthening the powerful global SOC network.

The increasing number of cyberattacks in today's business environment are becoming more sophisticated. Eviden's Security Operations Centers serve as a key differentiator to managing business risk by transforming security environments from highly siloed to holistic, advanced operations.

Eviden's Mexico SOC will provide customers with its Managed Detection and Responseto detect and mitigate threats, and then enable customers with informed, prescriptive responses for proactive safety. The advanced MDR solution, powered by Eviden's next-generation artificial intelligence platform AIsaac Cyber Mesh, provides threat intelligence, threat hunting, security monitoring, incident analysis, threat containment and full-service response to tackle today's emerging threats. In a continued effort to innovate and apply next-level solutions to its global SOCs, Eviden launcheda 'sovereign data' version of its MDR service, ensuring that client data remains in the same geography. The classic cloud-native version of Eviden's MDR service is now 100% carbon neutral.

Chris Moret, Global Head of Cybersecurity Services at Eviden, Atos Group said "In order to address and evaluate local customer needs with technical, top tier and effective cyber operations, we have expanded our SOC network to establish a regional center based in Monterrey. The new center will collaborate with the strong ecosystem of our global SOCs across Europe, Asia, Middle East and US, aiding our ambitions to continue to grow our cybersecurity business, and in turn, make positive impacts for our clients' safety and security."

Eviden's global network of SOCs leverages Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRT) to block and neutralize cyber-attacks in real-time across industries. Each SOC is designed to rapidly identify and limit the impact of security incidents for large organizations using 24/7/365 threat monitoring, detection and targeted responses.

With a global team of more than 6,500 security specialists and a worldwide network of 17 SOCs, Eviden offers end-to-end Digital Security.

***

About Eviden1

Evidenis a next-gen technology leader in data-driven, trusted and sustainable digital transformation with a strong portfolio of patented technologies. With worldwide leading positions in advanced computing, security, AI, cloud and digital platforms, it provides deep expertise for all industries in more than 47 countries. Bringing together 47,000 world-class talents, Eviden expands the possibilities of data and technology across the digital continuum, now and for generations to come. Eviden is an Atos Group company with an annual revenue of c.  5 billion.

About Atos

Atosis a global leader in digital transformation with c. 95,000 employees and annual revenue of c.  11 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 69 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea), and listed on Euronext Paris.

The purpose of Atosis to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

Press contacts:

Americas: Maggie Wainscott | maggie.wainscott@eviden.com

Global: Judith Sautereau - judith.sautereau@eviden.com- +33679151787

1 Eviden business is operated through the following brands: AppCentrica, ATHEA, Cloudamize, Cloudreach, Cryptovision, DataSentics, Edifixio, Energy4U, Engage ESM, Evidian, Forensik, IDEAL GRP, In Fidem, Ipsotek, Maven Wave, Profit4SF, SEC Consult, Visual BI, Worldgrid, X-Perion. Eviden is a registered trademark.

Eviden is a registered trademark.  Eviden SAS, 2024.

Attachments
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TRIUMF, Canada's particle accelerator centre, and General Fusion, an international leader in the development of commercial fusion energy, have received a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Alliance grant to advance technology critical to measuring extreme temperatures inside a fusion machine. Grant funding of $800,000 over four years will support the design and delivery of an ultra-fast neutron spectrometer system to measure plasma temperatures at fusion conditions of over 100 million degrees Celsius (10 keV), a key technical milestone that General Fusion aims to achieve at large scale by 2025.



The neutron spectrometer system is a flagship project under the collaborative agreement signed by TRIUMF and General Fusion in 2023. Known for pushing the boundaries of science and innovation, TRIUMF will support General Fusion in developing a diagnostic system capable of precisely measuring neutron energies at a very high rate. Neutrons carry unique information about fusion reactions, and the system being built at TRIUMF and General Fusion will tag neutron interactions every nanosecond.

The highly advanced spectrometer will debut on General Fusion's new Lawson Machine 26 (LM26) fusion demonstration machine to measure ion temperature, a critical plasma parameter, at peak compression of a magnetized plasma. Following LM26 operations, the company expects to upgrade the system for its planned near-commercial machine. To further support this trailblazing diagnostic work over the next four years, TRIUMF and General Fusion have enlisted experts from Simon Fraser University to design and implement a dedicated neutron test facility. Additionally, at the Universite de Sherbrooke in Quebec, new Canadian single photon detection technology is being further developed and fabricated for the upgraded system that will be installed on General Fusion's near-commercial machine.

"This exciting project highlights the deep technology collaboration happening across the country to advance Canadian fusion energy technology," said Greg Twinney, CEO, General Fusion. "Together with top labs and universities, we are building and testing world-leading systems required to deliver commercial fusion energy to the grid by the early to mid-2030s."

"This is a prime example of how TRIUMF expertise and infrastructure impact our world," commented Kathryn Hayashi, CEO of TRIUMF Innovations, TRIUMF's commercialization arm. "TRIUMF Innovations' project with General Fusion uses our research and development work to fill a technology gap in high-rate neutron detection and provides potential for direct market outcomes in clean fusion energy, healthcare, and subatomic physics applications."

About TRIUMF

Established in 1968 in Vancouver, TRIUMF is Canada's particle accelerator centre. The lab is a hub for discovery and innovation inspired by a half-century of ingenuity in answering some of nature's most challenging questions. From the hunt for the smallest particles in our universe and the origin of the elements that make up our world to research that advances the next generation of batteries, quantum computers or cures for cancer, TRIUMF is pushing frontiers in research, while training the next generation of leaders in science, medicine, and industry.

TRIUMF Media Relations

Stu Shepherd

Head, Communications

1.604.222.7528

sshepherd@triumf.ca

@TRIUMFLab

About General Fusion

General Fusion is pursuing a fast and practical approach to commercial fusion energy and is headquartered in Richmond, B.C., Canada. The company was established in 2002 and is funded by a global syndicate of leading energy venture capital firms, industry leaders, and technology pioneers. Learn more at www.generalfusion.com .



General Fusion Media Relations

media@generalfusion.com

+1-866-904-0995
Seoul Semiconductor (KOSDAQ:046890), a global optical semiconductor company, ranked third in the category of visible light for the second consecutive year and first in the category of UV LED for the fifth consecutive year in the 2023 global rankings released by market research firm TrendForce. This is significant in that Seoul Semiconductor is the only one among the top 5 companies that has achieved organic growth relying solely on its best-in-industry optical semiconductor technologies.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327559356/en/

"2023 Global LED Lighting Market Analysis" released by TrendForce in March 2024 (Graphic: Seoul Semiconductor Co., Ltd.)

Behind this achievement lies the entrepreneurial spirit of Seoul Semiconductor, which has been committed to earning customer trust. Seoul Semiconductor incurred a huge loss as it maintained a safety stock worth USD 50 million, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, to deliver on its promises to customers. Nevertheless, it has not failed to supply 100% of committed orders to customers. Seoul Semiconductor's consistent and responsible behavior has earned the trust of its customers. As a result, in 2023, even under the deteriorating economic conditions, Seoul Semiconductor was able to limit its growth decline to negative 8%, whereas other major companies in the industry were hit harder, experiencing a reversal to negative 13% on average. This is the result of Seoul Semiconductor's perseverance in prioritizing customer trust above all else.

Under the vision of "Make the World Clean, Healthy and Beautiful with Light", Seoul Semiconductor is running innovation centers in six countries and production bases in four countries to ensure stability in product supply to customers.

Organic growth refers to the growth that a company achieves by enhancing its own competitiveness, such as technology development, without relying on external drivers, such as mergers and acquisitions (M&As).

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327559356/en/

Contacts:

Seoul Semiconductor Co., Ltd.

Jinseop Jung

jjs8732@seoulsemicon.com
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / U.S. Bank

This Women's History Month, U.S. Bank is celebrating trailblazing women like Kim Ferguson, chief administrative officer and strategic initiatives leader for wealth management

Ferguson's favorite part of her current role is that every day she gets to solve a new problem and deliver on a new opportunity.

Originally published on U.S. Bank company blog

Kim Ferguson's title of chief administrative officer and strategic initiatives leader for wealth management at U.S. Bank is lengthy, but the role has a laser focus.?

"It's like being an air traffic controller for the business," she said. "Air traffic controllers have a very crucial role in managing the movement of flights - takeoff, en route, landing. Much like the role we play in wealth, coordinating all the moving parts of a client's financial journey. As the CAO, I have a lot of information coming at me from across the organization, and I triage and simultaneously synthesize the information so that I respond in alignment with the strategic direction."

It is a skillset that Ferguson has employed since she first started at U.S. Bank 20 years ago, when she was hired alongside a team of traders to conceptualize, design, build and launch the retail fixed-income trading desk at U.S. Bancorp Investments, an investment adviser and a brokerage subsidiary of U.S. Bancorp and affiliate of U.S. Bank. In addition to this, she oversaw the expansion of the team from generalist to specialist trading, which helped to increase revenue and assets under management. She's also held other positions playing an integral role in numerous initiatives including integrating Union Bank into the business.?

Ferguson's favorite part of her current role is that every day she gets to solve a new problem and deliver on a new opportunity. "No two days in my job are ever the same. Some people may find that challenging, but I love it," she said.??

When Ferguson is leading large and complex initiatives, it is rare that anyone on the teams reports to her, but she noted that "a critical aspect of my role is motivating a team, getting them aligned, and moving towards goal attainment."

"The best part of my work is creating a culture of collaboration and curiosity where people feel empowered to think and create in new and innovative ways," she said.

Ferguson's incredibly deep knowledge of the wealth industry and her immersion in the bank's strategic vision make her a perfect fit for the chief administrative officer role, said Scott Ford, U.S. Bank Wealth Management president.?

"Kim is extremely skilled at coordinating and facilitating people, resources, and processes so our team can perform at a very high level," Ford said. "She's proactive, and oftentimes comes to the table with several potential options for the team to consider. That is extremely helpful."

Ferguson brings her eagerness for taking on large and complex projects to her philanthropic efforts as well. The Spelman College graduate takes her alma mater's tagline to heart: a choice to change the world.

"It has inspired my commitment to serving my community - making choices that will impact generations to come," she said. "I am dedicated to working for the empowerment of women, being an advocate for families and children and defending the civil rights and liberties guaranteed to everyone in this country."

This commitment is reflected in her board service: Ferguson has served on the board of the YWCA St. Paul for nine years, on the Minnesota affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) for three years and the national board of the ACLU for two years.??

Ferguson is often asked for career advice, particularly by young women just starting out. She recommends building your own "personal board of directors" filled with diverse perspectives to provide strategic guidance, obtain honest feedback, and remind you of your goals and values while navigating challenging situations. Her board includes people in public service, the field of law, brand strategy and leaders of tech startups, who "come to the table with different methods and mindsets," she said.?

Ferguson enjoys visiting museums and is an avid art collector, especially works by Black women artists. Her collection includes pieces by Lavett Ballard, Emily Moore, Deborah Roberts, Sharon Walters and Eyenga Bokamba, whose Twin Cities studio Ferguson has visited.?

Their works are "deeply connected to my culture, style and personality. Many are prominently displayed not only in my home but my office," she said. "Art helps me cultivate my curiosity and embrace ambiguity, and those are skills that I utilize everyday as I work with my colleagues to execute and actualize wealth management's vision."

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from U.S. Bank on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: U.S. Bank

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/us-bank

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: U.S. Bank

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Behavox, the leading provider of AI-driven compliance solutions, proudly announces the successful attainment of SOC 2 Type 2 examination for the third consecutive time. This achievement underscores Behavox's unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest security, availability and privacy standards, emphasizing the company's dedication to protecting its clients' data integrity and privacy.

Since first achieving SOC 2 Type 2 examination in February 2021, Behavox has worked in close collaboration with esteemed auditors Schellman Company, a top 50 CPA firm specializing in attestation and compliance services. This partnership focuses on rigorously testing existing controls and validating new measures across key domains, including security, availability, and privacy. This continuous effort ensures that Behavox remains at the forefront of security and privacy standards, offering unparalleled protection in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

"We congratulate Behavox for completing a SOC 2 examination for the third year in a row," said Doug Barbin, President of Schellman Company, LLC. "This accomplishment highlights the team's recurring commitment to excellence in data security, operational integrity, and privacy. Schellman is proud to support an industry leader like Behavox and look forward to continuing to partner on their compliance journey."

The significance of robust security measures has never been more critical, especially within the Financial Services sector. The landscape is witnessing an escalation in the sophistication of malicious actors, propelled by advancements in Generative AI technologies. This evolving threat landscape necessitates a vigilant and dynamic approach to security, emphasizing the importance of continuously reevaluating and strengthening security controls to preempt potential threats.

Joseph Benjamin, Behavox's Chief Technology Officer, remarked, "In an era where the capabilities of bad actors grow more advanced by the day, our relentless pursuit of security excellence is more crucial than ever. Our third SOC 2 Type 2 report not only reflects our historical commitment to security but also our forward-looking approach to safeguarding our customers against future threats, including those posed by insider risks."

Behavox remains dedicated to leveraging its cutting-edge products to fortify defenses against internal and external security threats. The company invites industry professionals to explore how Behavox's AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) are revolutionizing compliance and security across various sectors. Join Behavox at its exclusive AI event in London on April 4, 2024, to delve deeper into these innovations register here.

About Behavox

Behavox is the leading provider of AI-driven compliance and security solutions, empowering organizations to proactively detect and mitigate human risks within the organization. Behavox leverages large language models and generative AI to transform how compliance and security teams manage risks and safeguard organizational integrity. Through innovative products such as Behavox Voice and Behavox Insider Threat, Behavox continues to shape the future of compliance and security risk management.

More information about the company is available at www.behavox.com

About Schellman

"Schellman" is the brand name under which Schellman Company, LLC and Schellman Compliance, LLC provide professional services. Schellman stands as a leading global provider of attestation, compliance, and certification services. Operating under two distinct entities, Schellman Company, LLC (a top 50 firm) and Schellman Compliance, LLC (a globally accredited compliance assessment firm which is not a licensed CPA firm). The services provided by the Schellman entities include acting as a CPA firm (Schellman Company, LLC Florida license number AD62941) as a leading provider of SOC reports, an ISO Certification Body, a PCI Qualified Security Assessor Company, a HITRUST assessor, a FedRAMP 3PAO, and being among the pioneering CMMC Authorized C3PAOs.

Renowned for its professionals' expertise combined with practical experience, Schellman delivers superior client service while upholding steadfast independence. The company's approach fosters successful, long-term relationships, enabling clients to achieve multiple compliance objectives through a single trusted third-party assessor. For further information about the services provided, please visit schellman.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327104605/en/

Contacts:

marketing@behavox.com
Navigating the New Regulatory Environment for Corporate Sustainability Disclosures

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc. (G&A), a leader in corporate sustainability consulting and research, is pleased to announce its 2024 Pathfinder Webinar Series. Registration is now open for the first segment of the series to be held on Wednesday, April 24. Click here to register.

Participants will dive into an ocean of knowledge, with the G&A team and guest experts helping to demystify the shifting tides of sustainability reporting and regulatory compliance. This essential series will provide the latest insights, practical strategies, and tactics to address requirements and navigate the rapidly changing landscape of global sustainability disclosure and reporting - not just in the U.S. but also in Europe and globally.

Each segment of the series is tailored to meet the needs of U.S. corporate executives and managers in areas including finance, accounting, investor relations, public affairs, legal affairs, ERM, and sustainability.

2024 PATHFINDER WEBINAR SERIES

Making Connections: EU Regulations - Impact on US Companies

Divided into three parts, each segment will offer a deep exploration of EU regulations and their significant implications for U.S. companies.

Making Connections 1: Placing CSRD in the Context of the EU Regulatory Landscape

Wednesday, April 24th @ 1PM EST (60 min)

The CSRD is a natural progression of pre-existing EU legislation and a significant step forward for achieving long-term EU sustainability and climate goals. Recognizing this context allows us to better understand the intent behind CSRD and gain useful insight into how the regulatory landscape may continue to evolve. Peter Paul van de Wijs, Chief Policy Officer of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) will be joining this segment of the series and will address the impacts on U.S. companies. Making Connections 2: Cross-Cutting ESRS Reporting Requirements

Wednesday, May 15th @ 1PM EST (45 min)

Examines the specific requirements contained in the ESRS with a particular focus on the cross-cutting, mandatory ESRS 1 General Requirements and ESRS 2 General Disclosures. These general standards are foundational to ESRS reporting, and understanding their intricacies and interconnections will set the stage for successful ESRS implementation. Making Connections 3: Topical ESRS & GRI Standards

Wednesday, May 22nd @ 1PM EST (45 min)

Highlights the ten topical ESRS and provides a simple method for breaking down the requirements contained in each. Explores the interconnectivity and usefulness of GRI Standards disclosures, and other common standards, for ESRS implementation.

Divided into three parts, each segment will offer a deep exploration of EU regulations and their significant implications for U.S. companies. The SEC, California & Other Climate Disclosure Rules

Wednesday, June 12th @ 1PM EST (60 min)

This segment will look at recent and important climate disclosure rules including the SEC's final climate disclosure rules, California State's climate disclosure rules - such as SB 253, the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, SB 261, and AB 1305 - and potential regional regulations from other states such as New York and Illinois. Speakers will guide attendees through the intricacies of these diverse regulations, highlighting their similarities and differences in how they address climate goals, risk management, and offset strategies. Sustainability professionals will gain the knowledge needed to effectively align their strategies with multiple regulatory standards.

This segment will look at recent and important climate disclosure rules including the SEC's final climate disclosure rules, California State's climate disclosure rules - such as SB 253, the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, SB 261, and AB 1305 - and potential regional regulations from other states such as New York and Illinois. Speakers will guide attendees through the intricacies of these diverse regulations, highlighting their similarities and differences in how they address climate goals, risk management, and offset strategies. Sustainability professionals will gain the knowledge needed to effectively align their strategies with multiple regulatory standards. IFRS' ISSB Reporting Standards

Fall 2024 - To Be Announced

This segment delves into the IFRS International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) and its emerging standards. We will specifically focus on the global context of IFRS S1 and S2, discussing their implications and future developments in ISSB standards that are pertinent to U.S. companies. Participants will take away critical insights into how these international standards intersect with and influence U.S. reporting practices.

This segment delves into the IFRS International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) and its emerging standards. We will specifically focus on the global context of IFRS S1 and S2, discussing their implications and future developments in ISSB standards that are pertinent to U.S. companies. Participants will take away critical insights into how these international standards intersect with and influence U.S. reporting practices. COSO Controls for Sustainability Information

Fall 2024 - To Be Announced

Featuring Shari Littan, JD, CPA, the lead author of the COSO interpretive guidance, "Achieving Effective Internal Control Over Sustainability Reporting," on its way to becoming the generally accepted for designing and implanting controls over sustainability reporting (ICSR). This segment will focus on the unique informational risks related to sustainability reporting and the critical need for robust processes, controls, and oversight systems. Attendees will recognize the importance of these controls in delivering information that is reliable and trustworthy and in accordance with current regulatory standards.

The Pathfinder Webinar Series is designed to inform and empower corporate reporters with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of both domestic and international sustainability reporting.

It is a must-attend for professionals seeking to plan and stay ahead in the dynamic field of global sustainability reporting and to ensure their company's reporting practices are robust, relevant, and resonant on the world stage.

The G&A team invites you to join us on this enlightening journey through the new regulatory environment for sustainability disclosures. Be informed and be prepared! Click here to register.

To keep up with additional information about the series and to sign up, please visit: https://www.ga-institute.com/webinar/pathfinder-series.html.

ABOUT GOVERNANCE & ACCOUNTABILITY INSTITUTE, INC.

(www.ga-institute.com)

Founded in 2006, Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc. (G&A) is a sustainability consulting and research firm headquartered in New York City. G&A helps corporate and investor clients recognize, understand, and develop winning strategies for sustainability and ESG issues to address stakeholder and shareholder concerns. G&A's proprietary, comprehensive full-suite process for sustainability reporting is designed to help organizations achieve sustainability leadership in their industry and sector and maximize return on investment for sustainability initiatives.

Since 2011, G&A has been building and expanding a comprehensive database of corporate sustainability reporting data based on analysis of thousands of ESG and sustainability reports to help steer strategy for our clients and improve their disclosure and reporting.

CONTACT:

Louis D. Coppola

Executive Vice President & Co-Founder

Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc.

Tel 646.430.8230 ext 14

Email lcoppola@ga-institute.com

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc. on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc.

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/governance-accountability-institute-inc

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
PUNE, India, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report titled "Aquaculture Products Market by Product (Aquaculture Drugs, Aquaculture Feed, Chemicals), Species (Aquatic Animals, Aquatic Plants), Environment, Aquaculture Production Scale - Global Forecast 2024-2030" is now available on 360iResearch.com's offering, presents an analysis indicating that the market projected to grow from a size of $17.18 billion in 2023 to reach $28.43 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.46% over the forecast period.

" Elevating Global Aquaculture: Innovations and Sustainability Drive Market Growth "

The global aquaculture product market is witnessing significant growth driven by the escalating demand for fish and seafood as premium protein sources. These products, encompassing pharmaceuticals, advanced nutrition feeds, fertilizers, and innovative equipment, play a pivotal role in improving aquatic life and ecosystems' health, growth, and productivity. Regardless of challenges due to environmental and health concerns linked to chemical usage, the industry is moving toward developing eco-friendly solutions, such as specialized drugs and sustainable feed formulations, to ensure the safety and well-being of aquatic species while gaining consumer confidence. The Asia-Pacific region leads in market expansion, benefiting from strong government support and substantial investments in aquaculture projects, while the Americas and Europe are focusing on ethical and sustainable practices. Additionally, innovative efforts in regions such as the Middle East, focusing on desert aquaculture, and Africa's push toward enhancing food security through community-based projects demonstrate the global movement toward more environmentally responsible and efficient aquaculture systems.

Download Sample Report @ https://www.360iresearch.com/library/intelligence/aquaculture-products

" Governments Worldwide Boost Aquaculture Sector with Key Investments and Initiatives "

Governments across the globe are actively enhancing the aquaculture industry's prospects through significant investments and supportive initiatives to foster economic growth and environmental sustainability. The measures include financial support programs such as grants, loans, and subsidies designed to improve infrastructure, promote sustainable methods, and drive research and innovation, recognizing the aquaculture sector's role as a cornerstone for future development. Furthermore, the strategic efforts by governments are expected to secure the future of aquaculture and ensure a steady supply of aquaculture products, contributing to global food security and environmental well-being.

" Revolutionizing Aquaculture: The Essential Role of Advanced Products and Practices for Sustainable Growth "

In the dynamic world of aquaculture, the health and productivity of marine and freshwater species rely heavily on specialized products and practices. Every aspect is designed to ensure sustainable and efficient growth, from vital medications such as antibiotics and vaccines that prevent diseases to tailored feeds that meet the precise nutritional needs of various aquatic organisms. The use of carefully formulated aquaculture feeds, such as pellets and flakes, alongside using chemicals for water quality management, highlights the industry's commitment to fostering optimal living conditions. Moreover, innovative equipment, including automated feeders and sophisticated water filtration systems, plays a pivotal role in maintaining cleanliness, preventing diseases, and creating controlled habitats that mimic natural environments. This comprehensive approach drives the success of aquaculture operations and emphasizes the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Request Analyst Support @ https://www.360iresearch.com/library/intelligence/aquaculture-products

" Green Plains Inc. at the Forefront of Aquaculture Products Market with a Strong 5.08% Market Share "

The key players in the Aquaculture Products Market include Wilbur-Ellis Holdings, Inc., Kemin Industries, Inc., Green Plains Inc., Avanti Feeds Limited, Xylem Inc., and others. These prominent players focus on strategies such as expansions, acquisitions, joint ventures, and developing new products to strengthen their market positions.

" Introducing ThinkMi: Revolutionizing Market Intelligence with AI-Powered Insights for the Aquaculture Products Market "

We proudly unveil ThinkMi, a cutting-edge AI product designed to transform how businesses interact with the Aquaculture Products Market. ThinkMi stands out as your premier market intelligence partner, delivering unparalleled insights with the power of artificial intelligence. Whether deciphering market trends or offering actionable intelligence, ThinkMi is engineered to provide precise, relevant answers to your most critical business questions. This revolutionary tool is more than just an information source; it's a strategic asset that empowers your decision-making with up-to-the-minute data, ensuring you stay ahead in the fiercely competitive Aquaculture Products Market. Embrace the future of market analysis with ThinkMi, where informed decisions lead to remarkable growth.

Ask Question to ThinkMi @ https://app.360iresearch.com/library/intelligence/aquaculture-products

" Dive into the Aquaculture Products Market Landscape: Explore 199 Pages of Insights, 648 Tables, and 24 Figures "

Preface Research Methodology Executive Summary Market Overview Market Insights Aquaculture Products Market, by Product Aquaculture Products Market, by Species Aquaculture Products Market, by Environment Aquaculture Products Market, by Aquaculture Production Scale Americas Aquaculture Products Market Asia-Pacific Aquaculture Products Market Europe, Middle East & Africa Aquaculture Products Market Competitive Landscape Competitive Portfolio

Inquire Before Buying @ https://www.360iresearch.com/library/intelligence/aquaculture-products

Related Reports:

Aquaculture Market - Global Forecast 2024-2030 Aquaculture Vaccines Market - Global Forecast 2024-2030 Aquaculture Therapeutics Market - Global Forecast 2024-2030

About 360iResearch

Founded in 2017, 360iResearch is a market research and business consulting company headquartered in India, with clients and focus markets spanning the globe.

We are a dynamic, nimble company that believes in carving ambitious, purposeful goals and achieving them with the backing of our greatest asset - our people.

Quick on our feet, we have our ear to the ground when it comes to market intelligence and volatility. Our market intelligence is diligent, real-time and tailored to your needs, and arms you with all the insight that empowers strategic decision-making.

Our clientele encompasses about 80% of the Fortune Global 500, and leading consulting and research companies and academic institutions that rely on our expertise in compiling data in niche markets. Our meta-insights are intelligent, impactful and infinite, and translate into actionable data that support your quest for enhanced profitability, tapping into niche markets, and exploring new revenue opportunities.

Contact 360iResearch

Mr. Ketan Rohom

360iResearch Private Limited,

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This Partnership aims to provide superior testing capabilities to their customers and affiliates, streamlining testing processes and ensuring robust software solutions globally.

San Francisco, March 27, 2024, a leading cloud-based unified testing platform announces a strategic partnership with Xilligence, a product engineering company with a two-decade track record of delivering innovative technology solutions. Under this partnership, LambdaTest's cutting-edge testing technologies will be complemented by Xilligence's extensive software design and development expertise to provide their customers and affiliates with superior testing capabilities.



It is expected that the partnership between Xilligence and LambdaTest will deliver concrete solutions to the testing challenges that businesses confront. With the integration of Xilligence's broad understanding of software design and development with LambdaTest's cloud-based testing infrastructure, the alliance aims to improve product quality, accelerate time-to-market, and streamline testing processes to benefit companies globally.



Maneesh Sharma, COO at LambdaTest, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, "The strength of Xilligence in software engineering and the innovation in test execution & orchestration of LambdaTest will help customers embrace the challenges faced in today's complex cloud environment. Partners are key to LambdaTest growth and we are excited to be working with an industry leader like Xilligence to further our collective growth."



Customers may confidently navigate the complicated environment of modern-day technology thanks to having access to an extensive arsenal of testing resources and expert guidance. By joining the strengths of Xilligence and LambdaTest, companies can effectively address testing hurdles and ensure the delivery of robust and reliable software solutions.

Vikram Nair, CEO of Xilligence, said, "Xilligence is pleased to partner with an innovative company such as LambdaTest whose software simplifies and speeds up the testing process. Since we offer full-spectrum testing solutions, our clients will benefit from LambdaTest's proven solutions and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership.



About LambdaTest



LambdaTestis an intelligent and omnichannel enterprise execution environment that helps businesses drastically reduce time to market through Just in Time Test OrchestrationCloud allows users to run both manual and automated tests of web and mobile apps across 3000+ different browsers, real devices, and operating system environments.



? HyperExecutehelps customers run and orchestrate test grids in the cloud for any framework and programming language at blazing-fast speeds to cut down on quality test time, helping developers build software faster.



For more information, please visit, https://lambdatest.com



About Xilligence



Xilligence, founded in 2000, is a product engineering company with a head office in Toronto, Canada, and offices in India, Singapore, and UAE. Xilligence has an impressive two-decade track record of successfully designing, developing, delivering, and supporting software and technology solutions. Xilligence has helped companies around the world with their technology outsourcing needs. From small start-ups to large global enterprises, Xilligence helps our clients and partners navigate today's modern technology landscape and stay ahead of the competition.

For more information, please visit, www.xilligence.com


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The "Writing Instruments Market Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2031 By Product, Technology, Grade, Application, End-user, Region: (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East and Africa)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Global writing instruments market is on a trajectory of impressive growth during forecast period. By the end of 2031, the market is anticipated to reach a substantial valuation of approximately US$33 billion, a significant increase from its estimated market size of around US$24 billion in 2024.

Writing instruments are indispensable tools used for writing, drawing, or marking on various surfaces, including paper, whiteboards, and digital tablets. These versatile tools enable individuals to express their thoughts, ideas, and creativity physically. Available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and styles, writing instruments cater to diverse tastes and needs. They play a vital role in communication, education, business, art, and daily tasks, finding application in schools, businesses, art studios, and households.

Writing instruments hold profound cultural and social significance, as they are employed in a multitude of settings for personal expression, communication, and record-keeping. Moreover, the burgeoning middle-class population in emerging economies is opening up new avenues for writing instrument manufacturers to explore potential markets.

Market Analysis

The writing instruments market is poised for expansion in the coming years, primarily driven by consumer demand for specialized and personalized products. Consumers seek engraved pens or pens with specific colors to enhance their writing experience and reflect their individual preferences. In response, manufacturers are innovating with unique patterns and varieties to cater to diverse customer tastes, thereby propelling market growth.

The industry is embracing technological advancements by incorporating digital capabilities into traditional writing instruments. The popularity of digital styluses and smart pens that can synchronize with devices to transform handwritten notes into digital formats has seen significant growth. Additionally, the increased concern over environmental consequences has spurred demand for eco-friendly writing instruments, prompting manufacturers to offer instruments made from recyclable or biodegradable materials.

Factors Influencing Growth

Increase in Students and Educational Institutions Globally: The global population's growth, coupled with the expansion of education and employment opportunities in developing nations, is driving the demand for writing instruments, particularly in the education sector.

Product Innovation: Manufacturers are investing significantly in research and development (R&D) to meet customer demands. Functional tests on writing instruments, both before and after production, ensure appeal, comfort, durability, and an enhanced writing experience, contributing to market growth.

Challenges and Restraints

Counterfeiting: Counterfeit products in the writing instrument market pose a significant challenge, as they are often constructed with low-quality materials that can easily break or leak. Counterfeit products also contain toxic substances, posing a danger to consumers and damaging the reputation of genuine companies. While the industry is actively combating counterfeiting, it remains a complex issue to address.

Competition from Electronic Devices: The threat posed by electronic devices is prompting key manufacturers to innovate and develop new products and technologies that make writing instruments more appealing to consumers.

Regional Insights

United States: The mature writing instruments market in the United States benefits from high technological penetration. Manufacturers are introducing unique products, such as combinations of ballpoint pens and styluses or highlighters and styluses, to compete with modern technologies and sustain the relevance of writing instruments alongside electronic gadgets.

United Kingdom: In the United Kingdom, a strong emphasis on education and fine arts fuels demand for traditional writing instruments like fountain pens and calligraphy tools. Additionally, the market is witnessing increased interest in eco-friendly and sustainable products, leading to greater demand for eco-friendly and recycled materials.

China: China's writing instruments market is influenced by industrialization, economic growth, rising disposable income, and urbanization. The desire for customized and high-quality products, driven by thriving industries, contributes to increased demand for writing instruments.

Key Companies Profiled

Societe BIC SA

Faber-Castell

Mitsubishi Pencil Co., Ltd.

Pilot Corporation

Schwanhauber Industrie Holding GmbH Co. KG

Newell Brands, Inc.

Shanghai M&G Stationery Inc.

Schneider Schreibgerate GmbH

Kokuyo Camlin Limited

C. Josef Lamy GmbH Srl

STAEDTLER Mars GmbH Co. KG

Luxor Writing Instruments Private Limited

Linc Pen Plastics Ltd.

Hindustan Pencils Private Limited

And others (As per Request)

Key Segments Covered in Writing Instruments Industry Research

By Product Type

Pencil

Graphite Pencils

Mechanical Pencils

Pen

Fountain Pen

Ball Point Pen

Roller Pen

Gel Pen

Others

Colouring Instruments

Highlighter Markers

Others

By End-users:

Students

Independent Professionals

Institutions

Others

By Sales Channel:

Hypermarkets/Supermarkets

Specialty Stores

Multi-brand Stores

Online Retailers

Other Sales Channels

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/wt45vo

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Family-owned Bacardi continues to expand Shake Your Future, its free training program designed to help unemployed and underrepresented young adults build careers in the mixology world.

In India, Shake Your Future launched an all-female cohort as a way to shift perspectives and perceptions of women in the bar industry within the country. Hear firsthand how this opportunity in India empowered them in gaining the necessary skills for a life-long career in the bartending industry.

Key to the success of the Shake Your Future initiative in India are the close collaborations between Bacardi and Nitin Tewari, hospitality professional, founder of Bar Kala Academy and TED-Talk speaker.

The all-female class was invited to train at the Bar Kala Academy to master the basics of bartending, covering subjects like beverage basics, mixology, flairing as well as complementary business areas such as personal branding, social media and communication alongside industry insights.

Graduates from the program are already working at a leading hotel, while one was crowned winner of the GREY GOOSE House of Change India bartending competition.

This is one of the many ways Bacardi supports women in the industry. Check out why Bacardi was recognized by Forbes on the list of World's Top Companies for Women 2023.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Bacardi Limited on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Bacardi Limited

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/bacardi-limited

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Bacardi Limited

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Toronto, Ontario and Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Biosenta Inc. (CSE: ZRO) ("Biosenta" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its technological and operational advancements with the successful construction and operation of a bench scale production plant. The results from this production not only surpassed our expectations, but also showcased that our patented Tri-Filler antimicrobial technology is ready for accelerated development and scaling towards industrial manufacturing applications.

Operational Success and Optimizations

Biosenta has successfully constructed and commenced operations of a bench scale production plant, showcasing our capability to produce up to 15 kilograms of Tri-Filler daily. This marks a significant scale-up from our previous capacity, which was limited to smaller quantities for lab testing purposes only.

CEO's Perspective

"This is an amazing achievement by Dr. Maen Husein and group. The optimized particles are now being tested in industrial manufacturing processes," says Am Gill, CEO of Biosenta Inc. This development is not just a step forward in antimicrobial technology but also a testament to our team's dedication and innovative spirit.

Promising Results and Future Directions

According to Dr. Maen Husein, "The initial runs of Tri-Filler have delivered beyond expectations, with particle quality surpassing pre-established benchmarks. These results validate both the antimicrobial efficacy of the particles and the design of the manufacturing unit." Next steps involve operation of the bench scale plant, aiming to produce sufficient Tri-Filler for pilot runs in various industrial processes such as coatings, concrete, drywall, plastics, and other vast materials in the construction industry. Plans for a commercial scale plant will follow.

Research Collaboration with the University of Calgary

In partnership with the University of Calgary, further investigations will assess the performance of the bench scale plant against diverse input grades. This collaboration is crucial for refining the industrial scale plant's optimization, paving the way for broader commercial applications of Tri-Filler technology.

Looking Ahead

The construction of an industrial scaleup plant is under active consideration, with further details and timelines to be shared. This move will significantly enhance our production capabilities and impact across multiple industries.

About Biosenta Inc.

Biosenta Inc. is dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative antimicrobial products derived from its proprietary Tri-Filler technology. Based in Toronto, Ontario, Biosenta aims to revolutionize the way we combat microbes, offering solutions that are not only effective but also environmentally friendly and sustainable.

For further inquiries, please contact:

Am Gill, President and CEO, Biosenta Inc.

Email: info@biosenta.com

Phone: 416-410-2019

Biosenta is poised for a future where our antimicrobial technology plays a pivotal role in promoting public health and safety. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to innovate and expand our reach.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that such statements are only predictions and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially.

For more information, visit our website: www.biosenta.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203308

SOURCE: Biosenta Inc.
EQS Post-admission Duties announcement: Haier Smart Home Co.,Ltd. / Third country release according to Article 50 Para. 1, No. 2 of the WpHG [the German Securities Trading Act]

Haier Smart Home Co.,Ltd.: Announcement on Resolutions of the 9th Meeting of the 11th Session of the Board of Supervisors



27.03.2024 / 17:25 CET/CEST

Dissemination of a Post-admission Duties announcement according to Article 50 Para. 1, No. 2 WpHG transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group AG.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





Announcement on Resolutions of the 9th Meeting of the 11th Session of the Board of Supervisors

Qingdao / Shanghai / Frankfurt / Hong Kong, 27 March 2024 - Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd. (the "Company" or "Haier Smart Home", D-share 690D.DE, A-share 600690.SH, H-share 06690.HK) today published an announcement in accordance with applicable trading rules of the Shanghai Stock Exchange, and applicable PRC laws in relation to the Resolutions of the 9th Meeting of the 11th Session of the Board of Supervisors.

The announcement is fully available at:

https://smart-home.haier.com/en/dggg/P020240327822276459991.pdf?appdesc=Announcement%20on%20Resolutions%20of%20the%209th%20Meeting%20of%20the%2011th%20Session%20of%20the%20Board%20of%20Supervisors

IR Contact:

Haier Smart Home Hong Kong

T: +852 2169 0000

Email: ir@haier.hk



Press Contact:

CROSS ALLIANCE communication GmbH

Sara Pinto

Sven Pauly

pi@crossalliance.de

T: +49 (0) 89 1250903 35

About Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd.:

Haier is one of the world's leading manufacturers of household appliances with a focus on smart home solutions and customized production. Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd. develops, produces and distributes a wide range of household appliances. These include refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, air conditioners, water heaters, kitchen appliances as well as small household appliances and an extensive range of intelligent household appliances. The Company distributes its products through leading household brands such as Haier, Casarte, Leader, Candy, GE Appliances, AQUA and Fisher & Paykel. Haier Smart Home Co., Ltd. has launched Smart Home Experiential Cloud, which connects homes, users, enterprises and ecosystem partners, and facilitates the integration of Haier's online, offline and micro-store businesses and supports user interaction to further optimize the user experience.

27.03.2024 CET/CEST The EQS Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases.

Archive at www.eqs-news.com


PARIS, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 24, VAPORESSO unveiled its strategy upgrade at the VAPORESSO Vaping Ecosystem Strategy Conference of Europe in Paris, France. This upgrade involves extending the brand's product categories to meet consumer demands. By crafting a diverse range of products tailored to specific needs, VAPORESSO is building a comprehensive service ecosystem that encompasses three categories, ensuring a cohesive and integrated consumer experience. The upgrade also involves enhancing the localization layout in Europe, establishing a branch in Europe, and intensifying the development of localized operations within Europe. Both the comprehensive service ecosystem and the European localization layout underscores VAPORESSO's dedication to delivering top-quality, varied products and services to consumers.

A Comprehensive Service Ecosystem to Deliver Top-quality, Varied Products and Services to Consumers

Since its inception in 2015, VAPORESSO has been dedicated to providing consumers with high-quality vaping experiences through innovation-driven efforts and has become a leading brand in the global open-system vaping sector. With a keen eye on consumer preferences and a commitment to meeting their dynamic needs, VAPORESSO's strategic upgrade is set to guarantee the provision of superior products and exceptional service.

E-liquid stands at the heart of category innovation and device innovation, serving as a crucial element in fulfilling consumer preferences for taste and flavor. Therefore, VAPORESSO is expanding from open-system categories to include e-liquid products under its e-liquid brand DELICIU. In the future, as part of its goal to build a comprehensive service ecosystem, VAPORESSO may consider expanding its product portfolio to include pre-filled devices.

DELICIU, powered by VAPORESSO and positioned as a leading global e-liquid service brand, focuses on delivering unparalleled taste by authentically replicating original flavors using high-quality raw materials and top-tier manufacturing standards. This dedication to quality ensures seamless compatibility with all vaping devices going forward.

With this comprehensive service ecosystem, VAPORESSO aims to flourish across three categories, while continuously enhancing services, pursuing product innovation, and striving to deliver an expanded range of premium products to consumers.

A New European Branch to Serve as Central Hub and Foster Development in Europe

In its pursuit of excellence, VAPORESSO's European branch will serve as the central hub for the brand's operation in Europe, embodying the core of their market development plans in the region. It is committed to localizing and streamlining processes to enhance efficiency. This move is designed to work in close coordination with the headquarters in Shenzhen, enhancing the support provided to partners and contributing significantly to their success. Moreover, the branch will establish three centers including European Flavor and Sensory Research Center, European Product Design Center, and European Marketing Center for sustained growth and expansion in Europe.

These initiatives aim to penetrate the local market through taste experience, product quality, and marketing strategies, enabling the company to thoroughly establish its presence in the European market, delivering products and services that perfectly align with consumer preferences.

Continuous Efforts to Promote Harmonious Advancement of European Vaping Industry

VAPORESSO's this strategic upgrade is an innovative approach to exploring more possibilities in the vaping industry. With the establishment of its comprehensive service ecosystem and the strategic advancement of its European localization efforts, VAPORESSO is ready to pursue a wider range of business collaborations with partners, navigating the changing market landscape side by side and sharing the benefits of future market possibilities in Europe.

VAPORESSO is fully dedicated to supporting the sustainable development of the vaping industry in Europe. Starting with the supply chain, VAPORESSO commits to consistently offering high-quality products to ensure a reliable supply and maintain product standards. On the sales side, VAPORESSO plans to work closely with various partners to explore new collaborative opportunities and strengthen the industry as a whole. In addition, VAPORESSO intends to enhance the capabilities of retail stores, improving the shopping experience for consumers and supporting the growth of retail partners. By focusing on local needs in Europe and building a comprehensive service ecosystem, VAPORESSO is actively contributing to the healthy growth of the European vaping industry.

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/vaporesso-announces-strategy-upgrade-building-a-comprehensive-service-ecosystem-for-varied-premium-vaping-experiences-302101355.html
Escape the Ordinary With a Unique Blend of High-Quality Cannabis Products and Fantastical Storytelling: Unlock the Nerd Inside

PORTLAND, OR / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Utokia, expands online with the ingenious new venture by Holly Hillyer, an eight-year veteran in the regulated cannabis industry. Drawing upon her extensive marketing expertise, Hillyer has conceived a unique approach that couples high-quality cannabis products with engaging storytelling to offer an unrivalled consumer experience, promising to instill a sense of wonder and exploration.

Utokia Herb Co Product Lineup and Collectible Trading Cards

Utokia's product range is vast and varied from top-tier Magic Gummies to Catnip Joints. The buzz isn't solely around the products, but also their whimsical packaging - each product comes with collectible trading cards, offering customers a glimpse into the mystical World of Utokia. With this fascinating touch, Utokia not only sells a product but also a shared adventure.

A particular highlight in Utokia's lineup is the Hemp CBD prerolls. True to the company's distinct brand strategy, these are not just any prerolls but strain-specific and curated joints hand-selected by Holly herself. Alongside these prerolls are Utokia's Magic Gummies - Effect-Formulated confections available in a variety of flavors like sour apple and huckleberry, tailored to provide the perfect balance to a user's everyday adventure.

The company's playful, innovative approach extends to philanthropy as well. A heart-warming $0.50 from each sale of its quirky Catokia Catnip Joints (a weed-themed cat toy) is donated to the Cat Adoption Team, an Oregon-based no-kill cat shelter, underlining the brand's commitment to sharing good vibes all around, even with our furry friends.

Utokia is looking for artists to help bring the creatures and characters of the World of Utokia to life. "We want the community to help craft the creative direction of Utokia. We aspire to be a brand that involves its customer in the creative journey. Utokia at its core is meant to celebrate imagination and exploration. We are inspired by role-playing games (RPGs), fantasy fiction and open-world video games. We want to create a vibrant and immersive world for our customers to explore and we believe that the best way to do that is to collaborate with artists from all walks of life," said Hillyer.

This fresh take on cannabis is inspired by Hillyer's belief that cannabis can be more than just a product - it is an enriching experience. She says, "Our goal is to redefine what cannabis can be by infusing it with creativity, quality, and a touch of magic." Hillyer, through her latest venture, aims to redefine the perception of cannabis, transforming it towards normalization.

Contact Information

Holly Hillyer

Founder and CEO

contact@utokia.com

(503) 451-3909?

SOURCE: Utokia Herb Co

View the original press release on newswire.com.
WILLOW GROVE, PA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / The Philadelphia Phillies are excited to announce that Asplundh Tree Expert, a leading provider of safe, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable vegetation management and infrastructure services, has been named one of the team's "Official Community and Sustainability Partners of the Phillies."





The new multi-year partnership with the family-owned Asplundh, which is headquartered in Willow Grove, Pa., is aimed at making an impact in the community and introducing fans to the company's environmentally sustainable vegetation management and other utility-related services. As one of the team's Official Community and Sustainability Partners, Asplundh will take a leading role in several key initiatives.

"For more than 95 years, Asplundh has served the utility industry, helping communities build, recover and thrive in a changing world," said Jackie Cuddeback, Phillies Senior Vice President of Partnership Sales, Suites Sales and Corporate Marketing. "We are thrilled to welcome Asplundh, a world leader in our own backyard, to the Phillies family as they join us in several important causes."

"We're very excited to partner with the Phillies and are eager to work with the team to strengthen our long-standing ties to the Philadelphia community established over the last 95 years," said Asplundh CEO Matt Asplundh. "Sustainability and medical advancement in treating ALS are important initiatives to Asplundh, and we look forward to collaborating with the Phillies and the community to advance these goals."

The new synergy will feature Asplundh as the proud sponsor of the Phillies Home Runs for Trees program, where for each home run hit by a Phillies player, a tree is planted in the Greater Philadelphia area by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. More than 2,000 trees have been planted in the community since the program started in 2012.

Asplundh will also join the Phillies in their mission to strike out ALS as the new presenting sponsor for Phillies ALS Awareness Day on Sunday, June 2. That game will see the Phillies take on the St. Louis Cardinals at Citizens Bank Park. This ballpark-wide event is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for ALS research and care for families affected by ALS in the Delaware Valley.

The company will have a prominent presence at Phillies home games, with signage at various locations, including behind home plate and in left field at Citizens Bank Park.

Contact Information

Pete Mazzaccaro

Corporate Communications, Asplundh

pmazzaccaro@asplundh.com

215-784-4427

Deb Rinaldi

Director, Business Communications, Philadelphia Phillies

drinaldi@phillies.com

267-408-9545

SOURCE: Asplundh

View the original press release on newswire.com.
Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, March 27

For immediate release

27 March 2024

FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC

(the "Company")

MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES

The Company announces that it has today purchased 198,692 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 862.71 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 37,269,287; 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 187,722,016.

The figure of 187,722,016 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
Redde Northgate Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, March 27

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

27 March 2024

REDDE NORTHGATE PLC

("Redde Northgate" or the "Group" or the "Company")

Transaction in Own Shares

Redde Northgate plc (LSE:REDD) announces that on 27 March 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 : 50,000 Weighted average purchase price paid : 377 pence per share Highest purchase price paid : 377 pence per share Lowest purchase price paid : 377 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 19,990,071 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 226,101,352 which may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in the Company under the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

In accordance with Article 5(1)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (the Market Abuse Regulation) as incorporated into UK domestic law by the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, the schedule below contains detailed information about the purchases made by Numis Securities Limited on behalf of the Company as part of the Company's buyback programme.

Schedule of Purchases - Individual Transactions (as at 27 March 2024)

Number of shares

purchased Transaction price

(GB pence per share) Time of transaction Transaction reference number Venue 25,000 25,000 377.00 377.00 09:08:41 14:32:52 00069380937TRLO0 00069388785TRLO0 LSE LSE

Notes

This announcement is made in accordance with the requirements of Listing Rule 12.4.6.

For further information contact:

Buchanan

David Rydell/Jamie Hooper/Hannah Ratcliff +44 (0) 207 466 5000

Notes to Editors:

Redde Northgate is the leading integrated mobility solutions platform providing services across the vehicle lifecycle. The Company offers integrated mobility solutions to businesses, fleet operators, insurers, OEMs and other customers across seven key areas: vehicle rental, vehicle data, accident management, vehicle repairs, fleet management, service and maintenance, vehicle ancillary services and vehicle sales.

The Company's core purpose is to keep its customers mobile, whether through meeting their regular mobility needs or by servicing and supporting them when unforeseen events occur. With its considerable scale and reach, Redde Northgate's mission is to offer a market-leading customer proposition and drive enhanced returns for shareholders by creating value through sustainable compounding growth. The Group aims to achieve this through the delivery of its strategic framework of Focus, Drive and Broaden.

Redde Northgate services its customers through a network and diversified fleet of over 120,000 owned and leased vehicles, supporting over 600,000 managed vehicles, with more than 170 workshop, body shop and rental locations across the UK, Ireland and Spain and a specialist team of over 6,000 automotive services professionals.

Further information please visit the Company's website:
Egle Therapeutics, a biotechnology company focused on advancing the next generation of regulatory T cell-focused therapies for oncology and auto-immunity, announced today the appointment of Monica Gostissa, PhD, as Chief Scientific Officer and Reno Winter, PhD, as Chief Technical Officer.

"I am delighted to welcome Monica and Reno. They both bring an outstanding leadership to progress Egle towards a rich proprietary pipeline and the development of our therapeutic assets," said Vincent Brichard, MD, PhD, Egle's Interim CEO and Board member.

"I'm excited to join Egle Therapeutics to help develop novel immunotherapies targeting T regulatory cells for oncology and autoimmune diseases. I have been deeply impressed by the commitment of Egle's staff, scientists, management, Board of Directors and Investors to advancing its groundbreaking science. With all developments accomplished so far, and together with the talented people we have, I am confident that we will deliver highly successful and much needed therapeutic options for patients in the years ahead," said Monica Gostissa, CSO at Egle Therapeutics. As CSO, Dr. Gostissa will be responsible for all research, early development and translational activities.

"I am happy to be part of Egle Therapeutics' leadership team to contribute my expertise in CMC and beyond to the company's mission. I am truly enthusiastic about turning bold ideas into life-changing treatments, to innovate, and support creating new therapies. Excited for the journey ahead, I am ready to collaborate with a team that shares a common vision of making a significant impact on patients' lives," said Reno Winter, CTO at Egle Therapeutics. As CTO, Dr. Winter will be responsible for all manufacturing activities.

Dr. Gostissa has led preclinical programs at small and large biotech companies, focusing on how to best translate scientific insights into innovative cancer therapeutics. Most recently, she was Vice President of Preclinical Sciences at Jounce Therapeutics, where she contributed to establish the company's scientific strategy and to oversee a broad preclinical portfolio of immuno-modulatory antibodies.

During her time at Jounce, Dr. Gostissa led efforts that enabled two IND applications, was involved in a successful outlicensing deal, and established and grew effective multi-disciplinary teams. Before starting her career in biotech, Dr. Gostissa spent many years in academic research, where she acquired a deep knowledge in cell biology, oncology and tumor immunology. Dr. Gostissa obtained her PhD in molecular genetics from the International School for Advanced Studies in Trieste, Italy, and completed post-doctoral studies at Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Medical School. She co-authored over 40 peer-reviewed publications and was the recipient of several awards, including a Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Special Fellow Award and a V Foundation Scholar Award.

Dr. Winter provides more than 10 years of experience in operationally leading and managing analytical process development and external manufacturing activities. His expertise ranges from cell bank generation to drug substance and drug product manufacturing and supply.

Dr. Winter joined Egle Therapeutics in 2023, and assumes responsibility for the design, the establishment, and management of the manufacturing and supply strategy, as well as for the implementation of internal requirements and procedures to comply with applicable quality-related regulations and guidelines.

Previously, Dr. Winter worked as Head of CMC for a clinical-stage biotech company in Germany and as CMC Lead for Baxter/Shire PLC in Austria on numerous Investigational New Drug programs. In his past roles, he headed different teams to deliver and master all clinical trial-enabling CMC activities and actively contributed to numerous clinical trial applications and patents.

Dr. Winter is a trained biochemist and received his PhD in Natural Sciences from the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany.

About Egle Therapeutics SAS (Egle)

Egle Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on developing immunotherapies targeting suppressive regulatory T cells. Egle is leveraging a proprietary discovery platform to unveil novel Treg specific targets and to develop innovative Treg-focused drug candidates for oncology and autoimmune diseases. Egle ambition to advance toward the clinic its most advanced drug candidates, EGL-001 (a Treg-selective anti-CTLA4-IL-2m) and EGL-003 (non-targeted IL-2 Treg engager), which are currently developed in IND-enabling studies.

Find out more at www.egle-tx.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327564913/en/

Contacts:

contact@egle-tx.com 0033 (0)1 86 64 08 57
AM Best has commented that the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of "a-" (Excellent) of Lombard International Assurance S.A. (LIA) (Luxembourg), remain unchanged following the announcement that the company had been fined by the Commissariat aux Assurances (CAA), its regulating body. Concurrently, AM Best has commented that the Long-Term ICR of "bbb-" (Good) of LIA Holdings Limited (Lombard International) (United Kingdom), a non-operating holding company, remains unchanged. The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is negative.

On 20 March 2024, the CAA indicated that LIA had been fined EUR 1.7 million in relation to shortcomings in the company's anti-money laundering (ALM) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) diligence processes identified during a regulatory audit between November 2021 and February 2022.

Based on preliminary financial indicators, AM Best considers the fine to be immaterial to LIA's earnings and solvency level. Furthermore, since the audit, LIA has initiated a compliance plan and taken a number of comprehensive corrective actions to strengthen its ALM and CTF diligence procedures and measures, in full cooperation with the CAA.

AM Best considers that the company's credit profile is unchanged as a result of this regulatory action. AM Best will continue to monitor closely LIA's rating fundamentals, including the developments of the company's enterprise risk management.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best's Credit Ratings, Best's Performance Assessments, Best's Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best's Ratings Assessments.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright 2024 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327075129/en/

Contacts:

Stanislav Stoev, ACCA, CFA

Senior Financial Analyst

+44 20 7397 0306

stanislav.stoev@ambest.com



Ghislain Le Cam, CFA, FRM

Senior Director, Analytics

+44 20 7397 0268

ghislain.lecam@ambest.com



Christopher Sharkey

Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

christopher.sharkey@ambest.com



Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

al.slavin@ambest.com


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - A new study published in JAMA Neurology has found that individuals born in the 1970s possess approximately 15 percent more brain surface area and 6.6 percent more brain volume compared to their counterparts born in the 1930s.



The research, led by an international team of experts from the University of California Davis Health, utilized MRI data from the Framingham Heart Study, a health survey initiated in 1948, focusing on brain scans of 3,226 subjects.



During the study, neurologist Charles DeCarli's team examined brain MRI data from the Framingham Heart Study, a community-based research project ongoing since 1948. The team observed growth in brain regions linked to memory and learning, as well as increases in brain volume and surface area. The researchers suggested that a larger brain size could be beneficial for brain health, potentially contributing to a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases.



Interestingly, while cases of Alzheimer's disease are on the rise with the aging population, the rate of new diagnoses appears to be decreasing each decade. Over the past thirty years, dementia incidence in the US and Europe has declined by approximately 13 percent per decade. This study's findings may potentially explain this trend.



The reason for the observed growth in brain size remains unclear, with DeCarli proposing a mix of internal and external factors influencing this phenomenon. While genetics significantly influence brain size, external factors such as health, social, cultural, and educational elements may also play a role. By unraveling the drivers behind the increase in brain size, researchers aim to gain insights into how environmental and lifestyle factors impact brain health and the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.



The study's findings suggest that larger brain structures, as seen in the study, may indicate enhanced brain development and health. This larger brain reserve could potentially mitigate the effects of age-related brain diseases like Alzheimer's and related dementias in later life. However, it's worth noting that the study has limitations, as the participants were predominantly non-Hispanic white and may not represent the broader U.S. population.



Copyright(c) 2024 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Groer Dividenden-Report 2024 von Dr. Dennis Riedl Der kostenlose Dividenden-Report zeigt ganz genau, wo Sie in diesem Jahr zuschlagen konnen. Das sind die Favoriten von Borsenprofi Dr. Dennis Riedl Jetzt hier klicken
Der kostenlose Dividenden-Report zeigt ganz genau, wo Sie in diesem Jahr zuschlagen konnen. Das sind die Favoriten von Borsenprofi Dr. Dennis Riedl

EQS Post-admission Duties announcement: Adtran Holdings, Inc. / Third country release according to Article 50 Para. 1, No. 2 of the WpHG [the German Securities Trading Act] Adtran Holdings, Inc.: Release according to Article 50 of the WpHG [the German Securities Trading Act] with the objective of Europe-wide distribution 27.03.2024 / 20:18 CET/CEST Dissemination of a Post-admission Duties announcement according to Article 50 Para. 1, No. 2 WpHG transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group AG.

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 / March 27, 2024 / Paramount

By Adam Robinson, Vice President for Social Impact, Paramount and Bryce Bennett, Executive Director, Vote Early Day

Ahead of one of the most consequential elections of our lifetimes, Paramount is renewing its commitment to Vote Early Day and calling on corporate & community partners to empower voters to share their voices by signing up to celebrate Vote Early Day on October 29th, 2024!

Learn more and sign up to celebrate Vote Early Day!

Vote Early Day is a national day of action and celebration for our democracy. Thousands of businesses, nonprofits, election administrators, campus groups, and creatives unite each year to build activations that provide Americans with the tools and knowledge to overcome Election Day hurdles by voting early. When we vote early, voters ensure last-minute problems, long lines at the polls, confusing election laws, or voter disinformation cannot prevent us from casting our ballots.

Since the launch of Vote Early Day in 2020, Paramount has joined 4,853 organizations to encourage millions of Americans to cast their ballots. As we enter an election year with incredible opportunities and challenges ahead, we are calling on you to join this movement.

The power behind Vote Early Day is the partners who celebrate. We are proud to join national partners like Patagonia, Lyft, The League of Women Voters, MTV, Snapchat, YMCA, NAACP, and thousands of others on the ground in all 50 states. Through this diverse collaboration, Vote Early Day partners help ensure all voters, especially those representing historically marginalized communities, can cast their ballot.

During the last presidential election, defined by a global pandemic, Americans voted early in record-breaking numbers. Over 100 million people cast their ballot ahead of Election Day, more than the total early vote in the 2016 and 2018 elections combined. We have seen early voting increase year after year, and 2024 will provide a critical opportunity to prove we can change the culture of voting by making Election Day the last day to vote.

In 2024, we must maintain momentum to ensure that the voices of every American voter are heard. That's why we are calling on every organization invested in our democracy to join us as Vote Early Day partners this fall.

Learn more and sign up to celebrate Vote Early Day!

Paramount celebrates Vote Early Day each year because it speaks to our values of participation and inclusion. Through content shared to millions across linear and digital platforms, to the outreach we provide to our employees internally, Paramount is proud to support the participation of our audiences, employees and communities in the democratic process.

The question for you is: what platform, community, or voice does your organization have that could mean the difference between someone knowing how to cast a ballot early or getting left behind?

The work we do together this fall will ensure we can rise to the challenge of uplifting voters as they decide who will lead our country as President, who will represent them in Congress, and the fate of many state elections and ballot referenda. Every event, post, forum, and conversation that takes place on Vote Early Day will help play a vital role in ensuring voters have their say.

Join us in helping Americans vote early and growing this civic holiday at www.VoteEarlyDay.org.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Paramount on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Paramount

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/paramount

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Paramount

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Renegade Gold Inc. (TSXV: RAGE) (OTCQX: TGLDF) (FSE: 070) ("Renegade" or the "Company") announces that it has arranged a private placement of up to 17,000,000 units (the "Units") at $0.20 per Unit for total gross proceeds of up to $3,400,000 (the "Placement"). Each Unit will consist of one common share and one transferable share purchase warrant, each warrant exercisable into one additional common share for a period of three years from date of issue at a price of $0.25 per share.

All securities issued under the Placement will be subject to a hold period expiring four months and one day from the date of issue.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Placement to extinguish debt, for exploration work on the Company's exploration properties and for general working capital.

The Company anticipates closing of the Placement (in one or more tranches) as soon as practicable subject to receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to sell any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Renegade Gold Inc.

Renegade Gold Inc. is a growth focused company engaged in the business of acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties located in the Red Lake Mining District of Northern Ontario. As part of its regional-scale consolidation strategy, the Company has assembled one of the largest prospective land packages in and around the Red Lake mining district in proximity to major mines and deposits, as well as along the Confederation Lake and Birch-Uchi greenstone belts. The recent completion of the acquisition of Pacton Gold Inc. extends Trillium's ownership in Red Lake to over 89,600 hectares of prospective and diversified exploration properties with significant potential for gold and critical minerals on trend with the major structures hosting known gold occurrences in the Red Lake mining district today. The Company also holds a portfolio of prospective projects in Western Australia.

For further information, please contact:

Renegade Gold Inc.

Nav Dhaliwal

President, CEO and Director

info@renegadegold.com

Tel: 604-678-5308

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "Forward-Looking Information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-Looking Information includes, but is not limited to, the anticipated timing for completion of the Placement and use of proceeds therefrom. The words "anticipate," "significant," "expect," "may," "will" and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify Forward-Looking Information. Forward-Looking Information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking information. In preparing the Forward-Looking Information in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, assumptions that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner; that all requisite approvals will be received and all requisite information will be available in a timely manner. Factors that may cause actual results to vary materially include, but are not limited to, inaccurate assumptions concerning the exploration for and development of mineral deposits, currency fluctuations, unanticipated operational or technical difficulties, risks related to unforeseen delays; general economic, market or business conditions, regulatory changes; timeliness of regulatory approvals, the risks of obtaining necessary licenses and permits, changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets and the inability to raise additional financing. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this Forward-Looking Information. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update this Forward-Looking Information after the date of this release or to revise such information to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES

OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203356

SOURCE: Renegade Gold Inc.
Der kostenlose Dividenden-Report zeigt ganz genau, wo Sie in diesem Jahr zuschlagen konnen. Das sind die Favoriten von Borsenprofi Dr. Dennis Riedl

SEOUL (dpa-AFX) - Samsung (SMSN.L, SSNNF.OB, SSNLF.OB) is currently rolling out a range of AI features to '100 million galaxy users' as per the announcement made last month. The latest One UI 6.1 update, previously exclusive to Galaxy S24, will bring AI features to a few selected Samsung devices released in 2023, such as Galaxy S23 series, S23 FE, both of the latest Fold and Flip handsets and the Tab S9 series. The company had previously stated on its website, 'Galaxy AI features will be provided for free until at least the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices.' However, devices supporting Android updates and security patches like the Galaxy S22 range won't receive this new update. The Korean company said that the proposed update will include AI features such as Live Translate, Circle to Search, Note Assist, Instant Slow-mo and generative image editing, but the photo ambient wallpaper feature, which utilizes AI to change wallpaper based on time and weather, will remain exclusive to Galaxy S24 series. 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, DC / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / MEMRI is honored to welcome renowned Manila-based economist and political scientist Andrew James Masigan as a special advisor to MEMRI's China Media Studies Project. Mr. Masigan is an economist, a businessman, and a political columnist for The Philippine Star. He is also board member of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.

In his writings, Mr. Masigan warned about China's hegemonic and expansionist ambitions in the region. Mr. Masigan warned that if China is allowed to subsume the South China Sea, then the CCP would control the bulk of world trade and gain unprecedented economic and military control over the Indo-Pacific region. "Having dominion over Taiwan and the sea lanes is precisely the power base China needs to project its influence worldwide. It brings it one step closer to dethroning the U.S.," he stated.

Concerning Taiwan, Mr. Masigan stressed that, in his New Year message, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that 2024 will be the year of reunification between China and Taiwan. In fact, Mr. Masigan wrote that China has been preparing for war: "This is evident in the wartime infrastructure they've built; in the changes they've made in their legal system; in the preparations to sanction-proof their economy; in their stockpile of fuel, essential raw materials and food and, most especially, in ensuring military readiness. China is telling the world of its intentions through its actions."

According to Masigan, there are several factors that could trigger an invasion: "First, if [Taiwan's President-elect] Lai Ching-te declares independence from China. Second, for political reasons. China's economy is in bad shape and public dissent is on the rise. A war will distract the Chinese people whilst uniting them. Third, if the People's Liberation Army pressures Xi to invade now (rather than later) since the generals are aging and their preparations will soon be for naught. Fourth, the power struggles within the Chinese Communist Party become so dividing that a war is used to unite the party. Fifth, if China's grey zone intimidation tactics are met with armed response." In addition, Masigan stated that 2024 is an opportune time for China to make its move: "America faces a presidential election in November and the last thing the American electorate wants is to fight a war that is not theirs. The more support Biden extends to Taiwan, the less popular he becomes. So should China attack Taiwan this year, Biden will be politically constrained."

As tensions are rising in the West Philippine Sea, Masigan stated that China's hostility towards the Philippines stems from the "Philippines' correct pivot to the axis of democracy." Commenting on the frequent China's water cannon attacks against Filipino vessels, Masigan stressed: "We must not take the frequent water cannon attacks like a sitting duck. I think Philippine National Security Secretary Eduardo Ano was wrong not to react. He should have fired back with water cannons since matching one type of aggression with the same cannot be considered escalation. Because, as I have said before, real escalation is to show weakness. Weakness is akin to an open invitation for China to act with impunity. A calculated retaliatory action works as strategic deterrence."

Masigan suggested the Philippines must "de-risk" from China and "lean in" to partner countries with whom the country shares the same values, such as Japan.

It is worth noting that the Philippines and the United States signed a Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) in 1951. The treaty has eight articles and requires both allies to defend each other if another party attacks the Philippines or the United States. Hence, one major accident provoked by China in the West Philippine Sea could trigger the U.S. or the Philippines to invoke the MDT.

ABOUT MEMRI

Exploring the Middle East and South Asia through their media, MEMRI bridges the language gap between the West and the Middle East and South Asia, providing timely translations of Arabic, Farsi, Urdu-Pashtu, Dari, Turkish, Russian, and Chinese media, as well as original analysis of political, ideological, intellectual, social, cultural, and religious trends.

Founded in February 1998 to inform the debate over U.S. policy in the Middle East, MEMRI is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization. MEMRI's main office is located in Washington, DC, with branch offices in various world capitals. MEMRI research is translated into English, French, Polish, Japanese, Spanish and Hebrew.

MEMRI - Middle East Media Research Institute: https://www.memri.org

Contact Information:

MEMRI

media@memri.org

202-955-9070

www.memri.org

SOURCE: Middle East Media Research Institute

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Allies of Skin, a Singapore-based skincare brand, received an investment from Meaningful Partners.

The amount of the deal was not disclosed.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate its entrance into the United States across the digital and retail landscapes, including furthering marketing efforts, driving new product research and development and strategically building a US-based team.

Founded in 2016 by Nicolas Travis, Allies of Skin is a science-led skincare brand which started with three original products and has later expanded to a complete collection, using clinically-proven actives in charged concentrations to achieve results in minimum steps.

Allies of Skin is currently available in 36 countries and can be found across 40 retail partners, including Space NK, MECCA, Sephora, Dermstore and Cult Beauty and 800+ retail stores globally.

FinSMEs

27/03/2024
Aloha, a Littleton, CO-based B Corp and Climate Neutral Certified plant-based protein brand, received $68M in secondary investment from Semcap Food & Nutrition.

The secondary capital bought out early angel investors and enabled Semcap to take a minority stake in Aloha.

The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and development efforts.

Founded in 2020 by Buck Buckley and Cyrus Vandrevala, Aloha is an employee-owned and operated company offering plant-based products which are high in protein, and low in sugar. As a certified B Corporation and Climate Neutral Certified brand, the company sells its products at grocery stores nationwide, including Whole Foods Market, Sprouts, Wegmans, Harris Teeter, HEB, Kroger, Albertsons, Publix, Stop & Shop, Natural Grocers, Central Market, and more.

Brad Charron, Alohas Re-Founder since late 2017, will retain his role as Chairman and CEO. The company also added Semcaps John Haugen and Ryan Newcom to the Board of Directors, along with Paul Kenny, a seasoned sales executive with more than 30 years of experience.

FinSMEs

27/03/2024
Further, an Atlanta, GA-based data, cloud, and AI company, acquired Pandata, a Cleveland, OH-based company specializing in AI design and development.

The amount of the deal was not disclosed.

With the acquisition, Further and Pandata will be able to leverage their combined expertise to deliver privacy-first AI solutions that address growing concerns around data security.

Founded by CEO Cal Al-Dhubaib, Pandata creates AI solutions that address challenges faced by organizations operating in sensitive and highly regulated environments. With a focus on maintaining safety, compliance, and risk mitigation, the company has become a used partner for companies seeking advanced AI and machine learning capabilities. Cal Al-Dhubaib, Pandatas CEO and founder, will join Further as its Head of AI and the Pandata team will be part of the Further data science team.

Led by Mike Gustafson, President, Further provides AI and machine learning solutions used by highly technical and data dependent industries such as healthcare and life sciences, financial services, defense, and energy to turn raw data into the right decisions. The company has served brands including GameStop, Red Hat, Novartis, and Robert Half.

FinSMEs

27/03/2024
According to the Ponemon Institute, 1 in 5 companies do not test their software for security vulnerabilities. With an alarming rise in cyberattacks and new threats frequently emerging, its crucial for companies and their staff to proactively assess and enhance the security of their IT infrastructure.

This guide provides practical steps to effectively test and fortify your companys IT security measures.

Why Do I Need to Test My Company IT System?

Testing your companys IT system is essential for identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by cybercriminals. Testing your companys IT system is crucial for several reasons:

Protection of Customer Data: Your company might store sensitive customer information. Regular testing identifies vulnerabilities that could lead to data breaches, protecting customer trust and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Your company might store sensitive customer information. Regular testing identifies vulnerabilities that could lead to data breaches, protecting customer trust and ensuring compliance with regulations. Challenges of a Remote Workforce: Remote work increases security risks. Testing assesses the security of remote access mechanisms, ensuring secure connectivity for remote workers.

Remote work increases security risks. Testing assesses the security of remote access mechanisms, ensuring secure connectivity for remote workers. Protection of Sensitive Information: If your company handles sensitive information critical to operations, testing can identify vulnerabilities that may expose sensitive information to unauthorized access or theft.

If your company handles sensitive information critical to operations, testing can identify vulnerabilities that may expose sensitive information to unauthorized access or theft. Compliance Requirements: Regulatory compliance often requires protecting sensitive data and IT systems. Regular testing ensures compliance and reduces the risk of your company facing penalties.

What Methods Can I Use To Test My Companys IT?

Conduct Regular Vulnerability Assessments

Regular vulnerability assessments are essential to identify weaknesses in your IT systems.

Utilize automated scanning tools and employ ethical hackers to simulate attacks and uncover vulnerabilities before malicious actors exploit them. Schedule these assessments at least quarterly, if not more frequently, to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Penetration Testing

Penetration testing, often referred to as pen testing, goes beyond vulnerability assessments by attempting to exploit identified vulnerabilities in a controlled environment.

Engage certified professionals or penetration testing companies to conduct thorough tests, mimicking the tactics of real attackers to evaluate the effectiveness of your security controls. Ensure to address any vulnerabilities promptly and track improvements over time.

Similar to this is red teaming which is a form of attacking the vulnerabilities of a website and also blue teaming which is trying to defend against these attacks. In the middle is purple teaming which is a combination of both and it is very popular and essential for the websites of institutions such as banks, councils, universities and charities.

Secure Configuration Reviews

Review the configurations of your IT assets, including servers, firewalls and routers, to ensure they align with industry best practices and security standards.

Implement configuration management tools to automate this process and promptly detect any deviations from the secure baseline. Regularly update and patch systems to mitigate known vulnerabilities and maintain a robust security posture.

Social Engineering Assessments

Human error remains one of the weakest links in cybersecurity. Conduct social engineering assessments to evaluate the susceptibility of your employees to phishing emails, pretexting, and other manipulation techniques used by cybercriminals.

Provide comprehensive security awareness training to educate employees about common tactics and empower them to recognize and report suspicious activities.

Incident Response Testing

Prepare for the inevitable by testing your incident response capabilities through simulated cyberattack scenarios.

Evaluate the effectiveness of your incident detection, containment, and recovery processes to minimize the impact of a real security incident. Document lessons learned from these exercises and refine your incident response plan accordingly to adapt to evolving threats.

Third-party Risk Assessments

Dont overlook the security posture of your third-party vendors and service providers. Conduct thorough risk assessments to evaluate their security practices and ensure they meet your companys standards.

Establish clear contractual obligations regarding security requirements and regularly monitor third-party compliance to mitigate potential risks to your organization.

How Often Should I Test My Companys IT Security?

The frequency of testing your companys IT security depends on various factors, including the size of your organization, industry regulations and the cost of the tests you are carrying out. In general, its recommended to conduct monthly vulnerability assessments, penetration tests and other security assessments (depending on your budget).

Additionally, it is important to perform testing after significant changes to your IT infrastructure or applications and whenever new threats emerge.

Investing In Future Business Resilience

Securing your companys IT infrastructure is an ongoing process that requires proactive measures and continuous monitoring of your systems and your team.

By conducting regular vulnerability assessments and the additional reviews outlined in this article, you can identify and mitigate security risks effectively. Remember, investing in cybersecurity today is an investment in the future resilience of your business.
Prince Harry remains hopeful that Prince William will eventually forgive him for any conflicts that may have occurred between them, according to a royal expert.

According to reports Prince Harry is expected to return to Britain from his home in California in May. Despite Harry and Meghan having a huge clash with Prince William as shown in Netflixs docuseries Harry & Meghan, now he wishes to mend his relationship with his brother. But the big question is whether William is ready for this amid health crisis in the family.

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In an exclusive chat with The Mirror, royal expert and author Tom Quinn said: William would much rather keep Harry at my arms length, simply because of this trust issue  if William felt Harry could be relied on, he would certainly want him back in the UK, because this is one of the most stressful times in Williams life.

Harrys volatile nature

Tom Quinn further added in The Mirror story , But with a brother who cant fully be trusted, the situation is a nightmare. If Harry was welcomed back into the fold, it would be even more stressful for William because hed have Kate to worry about, but also Harry with all Harrys volatility and tendency to take offence.

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The key thing about Harry is that in many ways he is still the 12-year-old boy he was when his mother died. His emotional development arguably stopped at that point, so the little boy in him imagines that his big brother will ultimately always forgive him whatever he says, and however much he drags their disagreements into the public sphere.

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Harrys UK visit

The Mirror report further revealed that Prince Harry is expected to visit the UK in May and make efforts to see Prince William . Following the Princess of Wales  cancer diagnosis, the Duke of Sussex is thought to want to offer his support to the Royal Family, which would include meeting his older brother, the Prince of Wales.

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However, royal expert Quinn told us any meeting would last a short time so that the two brothers can avoid any difficult conversations.

Kate Middleton third UK Royal to be diagnosed with cancer

On the health front of Kate Middleton , she becomes the third UK Royal to be diagnosed with cancer after King Charles and Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York.

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Kate has begun a course of preventative chemotherapy treatment. This of course came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family, Middleton said in the video.

Harry Vs William

Harry had earlier claimed in his controversial memoir Spare that he was physically attacked by his brother, Prince William. Harry also claimed that his brother William and his wife Catherine, now the Prince and Princess of Wales, laughed after seeing him dressed in a Nazi uniform for a party.

Going back to the physical attack that Harry faced in the hands of his brother, Prince William, describing the incident in detail in his book Spare which happened in his London home in 2019, Harry says William called Meghan difficult, rude and abrasive, which Harry calls a parroting of the press narrative about his American wife. The confrontation escalated, Harry writes, until William grabbed me by the collar, ripping my necklace and knocked me to the floor. This incident Harry says resulted in visible injury to his back.

(With added inputs from agencies)
Reportedly, the Gala will be attended by prolific industrialists and philanthropists from India and London

Actor, producer and entrepreneur Alia Bhatt is all set to host her first Hope Gala in London.

As per a source close to the actress team, Alia will host Hope Gala on March 28 in partnership with the Mandarin Oriental hotel group at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. This is in support of Alias chosen charity Salaam Bombay which is focused on engaging Mumbais most vulnerable at-risk children through in-school programmes (leadership and advocacy) and after-school academies (skill building) that help build their confidence, self-esteem and commit them to stay in school.

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Reportedly, the Gala will be attended by prolific industrialists and philanthropists from India and London.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Alia has recently completed shooting for Jigra, which also stars Vedang Raina.

Announcing the wrap, a few days ago, she shared candid photos from the sets of the movie on her Instagram featuring herself and Vedang.

Sharing the post, she wrote, jigra oh abki teri baari ho @vedangraina & thats a film wrap on #JIGRA @vasanbala @swapsagram. See you soon 27th September 2024 at a cinema near you.

In the photos, Alia was seen in an all-new short hair look for the film. Alia and Vedang were seen in a candid mood as they sat beside each other.

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Vedang also shared the same pictures and expressed her excitement on his Instagram handle. He wrote, And thats a wrap on Jigra @aliaabhatt. A film and a character that has given me as much as taken away from me. A journey thats meant everything. See you at the movies on 27th September.

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Helmed by Vasan Bala, Jigra is co-produced by Karan Johar and Alia herself. The film is all set to hit the theatres on September 27, 2024.

Director Vasan Bala has previously helmed films like Monica O My Darling, a crime thriller film Peddlers and Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota.Jigra was announced last year in September.

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Alia Bhatt rang in her 31st birthday with her husband Ranbir Kapoor and family including Neetu Kapoor, Shaheen Bhatt, and Soni Razdan. She was also joined by her and Ranbirs close friends Akash Ambani, Isha Ambani, and her husband Anand Piramal. As the Kapoor and Bhatt families arrived at the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai on the eve of March 14 to celebrate the actress birthday, several pictures and videos captured by paparazzi started making rounds on the Internet, giving a glimpse of the delightful gathering.

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With added inputs from agencies
AAPs Raghav Chadha is involved in controversy over his meeting with British MP Preet Kaur Gill. The Labour Partys leader has advocated for Khalistan in the past, drawing scrutiny from India

The Aam Aadmi Party is facing a crisis. Their leader, Arvind Kejriwal is in jail after being arrested in connection to the Delhi liquor excise policy. And now, Raghav Chadha is facing political ire for his meeting with a person in the United Kingdom known to be an advocate of the Khalistan movement.

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This also comes at a time when an unverified video emerged on social media in which Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun alleges that the party had received a staggering $16 million (approximately Rs 133.54 crore) from Khalistani groups between 2014 and 2022.

Who did Raghav Chadha meet in London? Why has it turned into a political row? Heres what we know so far.

Raghav Chadhas meeting with Preet Kaur Gill

Last week, while Delhi chief minister and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by officials of the Enforcement Directorate in the Delhi liquor excise policy case, the partys Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha was in London. He has reportedly been in the UK since early March, with news agency PTI reporting that he was undergoing a vitrectomy surgery to prevent the eyes retinal detachment.

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On 21 March, British Labour Party MP Preet Kaur Gill posted an image of meeting Chadha in British parliament where they held discussions on global health security.

Great to meet @raghav_chadha in Parliament. - He is a Rajya Sabha MP from Punjab, India. I look forward to a discussion around global health security and antimicrobial resistance. pic.twitter.com/9Gz6gc7TZi  Preet Kaur Gill MP (@PreetKGillMP) March 20, 2024

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BJP takes aim at Chadha

It is unclear what the two discussed or if there was any discussion, but the BJP was quick to question his meeting with the British Labour Party MP.

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Amit Malviya, the BJPs I-T cell chief, said that Sunita Kejriwal, Arvind Kejriwals wife, should explain what AAP MP Raghav Chadha was doing with British Labour MP Preet K Gill, who openly advocates K separatism, mobilises funds for Ks in UK, funds violent protests outside India House in London, constantly posts anti-India, anti-Modi, anti-Hindu stuff on her social media accounts?

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Elections have been announced in India. But Raghav Chadha, Arvind Kejriwals blue eyed boy, is in London! Why? Why is Chadha in touch with Preet Gill? said the BJP leader on X.

Sunita Kejriwal, wife of jailed Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, says, There are several forces within and outside India that are weakening the country. We have to be alert, identify these forces and defeat them...



Agree with her completely.



She may want to explain what is AAP MP pic.twitter.com/a8jajd1cNq  Amit Malviya (  ) (@amitmalviya) March 23, 2024

Later, Union Minister Anurag Thakur targeted the AAP without naming Chadha. What kind of government is it (in Punjab)? An MP from the state (Punjab) stands with those forces who speak against India and support terrorism.

Preet Kaur Gill and her Khalistani links

Preet Kaur Gill, the British MP who Chadha has been photographed with, has the honour of being Britains first woman Sikh Member of Parliament after winning the Edgbaston seat for the Labour Party in the 2017 polls.

Born and brought up in Edgbaston, she has served as a board member of the Sikh Network, an open collective of Sikh activists and professionals in UK from all backgrounds.

In 2018, she was elevated to the Shadow Cabinet by the Labour party. However, in 2023, she was demoted from the position in preparation for a general election expected later in the year.

Britains Preet Kaur Gill has received scrutiny from India over her perceived Khalistani links. She has also vocalised her support for the release of national Jagtar Singh Johal, aka Jaggi Johal from Tihar jail in Delhi. Image Courtesy: @PreetKGillMP/X

Kaur Gill has been the subject of Indian scrutiny for her perceived support for Khalistan. Earlier in February, she had alleged in the House of Commons that agents with ties to India were targeting Sikhs in the UK. Gill mentioned that some British Sikhs were even on a hit list of what she termed transnational repression, and questioned Security Minister Tom Tugendhat about the British governments response.

In 2020, she had also engaged in a public row on X with Conservative MP Raminder Singh Ranger, who had posted at that time that British prime minister Boris Johnson does not endorse Khalistan. Gill promptly challenged him citing the principle of self-determination enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, as per a report by the Indian Express.

In the past, she has also earned criticism in India for calling for the release of British national Jagtar Singh Johal, aka Jaggi Johal. For the unaware, Johal is currently lodged in Delhis Tihar jail on the charges of being involved in targeted killings in Punjab.

She also received flak in December 2021 when she posted a tweet, which she then deleted, calling the unidentified youth who was killed at the at the Golden Temple in Amritsar a Hindu terrorist. T

She is also repeatedly appeared in public and taken photographs with known Khalistani activists.

Raghav Chadha speaks

While the AAP has remained mum on the matter, Chadha himself said that he didnt hold any meetings due to his schedule apart from attending the Prime Ministers Question Session at the House of Commons.

PS: apart from attending Prime Minister Questions, I didnt hold any meetings due to my schedule. But some MPs and visitors did approach me for photos as I left Westminster.  Raghav Chadha (@raghav_chadha) March 21, 2024

But he said some MPs and visitors did approach him for photos.

With inputs from agencies
Sunita Kejriwal has maintained a low profile since the inception of AAP more than a decade ago. But recently, after her husbands arrest, she has stepped into the limelight, relaying Arvind Kejriwals message to his supporters. The BJP has claimed she is in the race to succeed the Delhi chief minister

The BJP claims that Sunita Kejriwal is 'in the race' to succeed her husband Arvind Kejriwal as the Delhi CM. PTI File Photo

Sunita Kejriwal has created political ripples with her remarks that her husband, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, will reveal the truth in the so-called Delhi liquor scam on Thursday (28 March). In a brief video address posted on social media, she said the Enforcement Directorate (ED), who arrested the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor last week, conducted over 200 searches but found nothing.

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Do they want to destroy Delhi? Do they want the people to keep suffering? Arvind Kejriwal is very pained by this In the so-called liquor scam, ED has conducted more than 250 raids. They are searching for the money of this so-called scam," she said.

They have found nothing yet Arvind Kejriwal has said that he will reveal everything in the court on 28 March. He will reveal where the money of the liquor scam is He will also provide proof, the Delhi CMs wife added.

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This was the second time since Kejriwals arrest that his wife has stepped out of the shadows to make a public appearance.

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Lets take a closer look.

Arvind Kejriwals wife springs to limelight

Sunita Kejriwal first grabbed the spotlight on Saturday (23 March) when she read out a statement on behalf of her husband who has been in ED custody since 21 March.

The AAP shared the video across its social media channels. I am Sunita Kejriwal. I am Arvind Kejriwals wife. Your son, your brother has sent a message for you from jail, she said at the beginning of the over three-minute address.

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I want to appeal to all mothers and sisters, have faith in your son and brother. There is no prison that can keep your son and brother inside for too long. I will come out soon and fulfil my promises. Has there been any instance till date when Kejriwal did not fulfil any of his promises? Your son, and brother, is made of steel, ThePrint quoted her as saying.

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She also asked the women of Delhi not to fret over the continuance of the monthly assistance scheme of Rs 1,000 announced by the AAP government in February.

There are several forces within and outside India that are weakening the country. We have to be alert, identify these forces and defeat them. Women in Delhi must be thinking that Kejriwal is behind bars. Who knows if they will get Rs 1,000? I appeal to them to trust their brother, their son, Sunita Kejriwal quoted her husband as saying.

The imagery was not lost and people were quick to notice the background in the video with portraits of Dr BR Ambedkar and Bhagat Singh. She was also flanked by the national flag on both sides. The Delhi CM gives his media addresses like this and she was probably occupying the same chair as her husband.

Who is Sunita Kejriwal?

Sunita Kejriwal is a 1993-batch Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer. She met Kejriwal at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Uttarakhands Mussoorie during their training, as per ThePrint.

The duo later got married. Sunita Kejriwal has stood by her husband throughout the years, even when he quit his cushy Income Tax job to become an RTI activist and anti-corruption crusader.

After over two decades of service, she took voluntary retirement in 2016. Her last posting was as Commissioner of I-T in the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) in Delhi, reported Times of India (TOI).

During her posting in the Serious Fraud Investigation Office, Sunita, as a sharp investigator, handled cases of several big corporate houses, an AAP functionary close to Kejriwals family told TOI.

When Kejriwal floated his own political party  AAP  in 2012, his wife was by his side. She was present with her husband at the office when the party won 28 seats in its debut elections in Delhi in 2013.

While she stayed away from day-to-day politics, Sunita Kejriwal has campaigned for the AAP in Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. She went door-to-door spreading awareness about the partys poll promises during the 2015 Delhi Assembly elections, as per the TOI report.

After leaving her job, Sunita ensured she was around to hear the issues of the party leaders and workers, the report added.

Ahead of the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections, Sunita Kejriwal was seen canvassing for votes for her devar Bhagwant Mann in the state.

She has also been spotted at religious events with her husband, be it attending Lakshmi puja during Diwali festivities at the Akshardham temple or visiting the Ram temple in Uttar Pradeshs Ayodhya.

According to ThePrint, Sunita Kejriwal has many times shared images from her social media accounts to prop up Kejriwals family man image.

She was also there when the Delhi CM visited the families of senior AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, both arrested in the same liquor scam case, last Diwali.

What does it mean?

While the AAP has maintained that Kejriwal will remain Delhi CM even from behind bars, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has attacked the party, demanding his resignation.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena said on Wednesday that the government will not be run from jail.

As pressure rises on the AAP, it has to be seen how long Kejriwal will remain in the CM chair. The BJP has claimed that Sunita Kejriwal is in the race to succeed her husband.

The parallels to Rabri Devi who took over the CM post in Bihar in 1997 after her husband, Lalu Prasad Yadav, was jailed in the fodder scam case have also come up.

Reacting to Sunita Kejriwals address on Wednesday, Union minister Anurag Thakur hinted that she might pull a Rabri Devi. When Lalu Prasad Yadav was caught in the fodder scam, Rabri Devi used to make announcements and later she caught hold of the chair gradually.

#WATCH | Jammu: On Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's wife, Sunita Kejriwal's address, Union Minister Anurag Thakur says, "When Lalu Prasad Yadav was caught in the fodder scam, Rabdi Devi used to make announcements and then she caught hold of the chair gradually. Arvind Kejriwal used to pic.twitter.com/lKvEdrQDUK  ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

According to ThePrint sources, the AAP has deployed Sunita Kejriwal to make emotional pitches, especially directed at the partys women voters, to fully gain from what it feels is a foolish move by the BJP to get Kejriwal arrested.

CPI leader D Raja with a party delegation meets Sunita Kejriwal and her daughter to extend solidarity after Arvind Kejriwals arrest in New Delhi, on 23 March 2024. PTI File Photo

AAP minister Saurabh Bhardwaj said last week that whatever Kejriwal says is acceptable to the party when asked about Sunita replacing her husband if push comes to shove. Whenever the situation arises, we will decide, he was quoted as saying by News18.

With inputs from agencies
Cargo ship Dali lost power and rammed into Baltimores iconic Francis Scott Key bridge on Tuesday. The vessel belongs to Singapore-based Grace Ocean Pvt Ltd and was carrying containers for the Danish shipping giant Maersk. It was also involved in an accident in the port of Antwerp, Belgium, in 2016

The collision with the bridge, which stretches 2.6 kilometres and was used by 12 million vehicles last year, took place at 1.28 am. Reuters

A cargo ship lost power and rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday.

The iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge was destroyed in a matter of seconds and plunged into the Patapsco River in a terrifying collapse that could disrupt a vital shipping port for months.

Six people were missing and presumed dead, and the search for them was suspended until Wednesday morning.

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Heres all we know about the average-sized cargo ship that caused the collapse.

Also read: Baltimore bridge collapse: Are there any casualties? What caused the accident?

About Dali  the ship that rammed into Baltimore bridge

Constructed by the Korean Hyundai shipyard in 2015, the Dali container ship is 300 metres long (985 feet), 48 metres wide, and 24.8 metres tall, with a gross tonnage of 95,000 tonnes, according to AFP.

It can hold up to 8,344 cubic metres (2.2 million gallons) of fuel, according to Marine Traffic.

The ship belongs to Singapore-based Grace Ocean Private Ltd, owned by a Hong Kong group, and was carrying containers on behalf of Danish shipping giant Maersk.

The Dali frequently links Asian ports with the US East Coast, and passed through the Panama Canal on 13 March before stopping at New York, Norfolk and finally Baltimore.

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It is insured by UK-based Britannia.

Aerial view of the Dali cargo vessel which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse in Baltimore. Six people have been presumed dead following the incident. Reuters

On 11 July 2016, soon after commissioning, the Dali accidentally hit a dock in the Belgian port of Antwerp as it tried to exit the North Sea container terminal, according to the sites Vessel Finder and Ship wrecklog. The port authority could give no details about the cause of the accident but said the ship had remained at the dock for repairs for some time after the incident, as per Reuters.

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As a general rule, these accidents are investigated and ships are only allowed to leave after experts have determined it is safe for them to do so, a spokesperson for the Antwerp port told the news agency.

An inspection of the Dali last June at a port in Chile identified a problem with the ships propulsion and auxiliary machinery, according to Equasis, a shipping information system. The deficiency involved gauges and thermometers, but the websites online records didnt elaborate, reported The Associated Press.

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The most recent inspection listed for the Dali was conducted by the US Coast Guard in New York in September. The standard examination didnt identify any deficiencies, according to the Equasis data.

Also read: Baltimore bridge collapse: How the ships Indian crew helped avert a bigger disaster

The recent tragedy

The ship flying under Singapores flag departed from Baltimore port at 1 am local time on Tuesday for a journey lasting around one month to Colombo, Sri Lanka, as per Marine Traffic.

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The operators of the Dali cargo ship issued a mayday call that the vessel had lost power moments before the crash. At around 1.28 am, the vessel struck one of the 2.6-kilometre bridges supports, causing the span to break and fall into the water within seconds. Puffs of black smoke were seen as the lights flickered on and off.

The ship was moving at eight knots, which is roughly 15 kilometres per hour.

Synergy Marine, the Singapore company that operates the Dali, said it was being controlled by two Baltimore port pilots at the time of the collision.

With the ship barreling towards the bridge at a very, very rapid speed, authorities had just enough time to stop cars from coming over the bridge, Maryland governor Wes Moore said.

The six missing people were part of a construction crew filling potholes on the bridge, according to Paul Wiedefeld, the states transportation secretary. Guatemalas consulate in Maryland said in a statement that two of the missing were citizens of the Central American nation. Honduras deputy foreign affairs minister Antonio Garcia told AP that a Honduran citizen, Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, was missing. The Washington Consulate of Mexico also said on X that citizens of that nation were also among the missing.

A senior executive at the company that employed the workers also said in the afternoon that the workers were presumed dead given the waters depth and how much time had passed.

Rescuers pulled two people out of the water, one of whom was treated at a hospital and discharged hours later. Multiple vehicles also went into the river, although authorities did not believe anyone was inside.

Indian crew on board

Synergy said all crew members and the two pilots on board were accounted for, and there were no reports of any injuries.

All 22 crew members of Cargo ship that hit Key Bridge in Baltimore are Indian, Synergy said in a statement issued on its website.

After the tragedy, Maryland governor Wes Moore hailed the Indian crew on board the Dali, saying that it was their quick thinking that saved other lives.

The US president Joe Biden said that the crew notifying officials that they had lost control of the ship, prompted the shutdown of the bridge, a move that undoubtedly resulted in the saving of many lives.

Personnel on board the ship were able to alert the Maryland Department of Transportation that they had lost control of their vessel. As a result, local authorities were able to close the bridge to traffic before it was struck, which undoubtedly saved lives, stated Biden during his comments at the White House regarding the collapse.

A logistical nightmare

Tuesdays collapse might create a logistical nightmare along the East Coast for months, if not years, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore.

The port is a major East Coast hub for shipping. The four-lane bridge spans the Patapsco River at the entrance to the busy harbour, which leads to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Opened in 1977, the bridge, named for the writer of The Star-Spangled Banner, carries 11.3 million vehicles a year, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority.

Wiedefeld said all vessel traffic into and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though the facility was still open to trucks.

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with one of the bridges supports in Baltimore. Rescuers are searching for multiple people in the water. WJLA via AP

The loss of the bridge will also snarl cargo and commuter traffic.

The head of a supply chain management company said Americans should expect shortages of goods from the collapses effect on ocean container shipping and East Coast trucking.

Its not just the port of Baltimore thats going to be impacted, said Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport.

While Baltimore is not one of the largest U.S. East Coast ports, it still imports and exports more than one million containers each year, so there is the potential for this to cause significant disruption to supply chains, CBS News quoted Emily Stausbll, a market analyst at Xeneta, an ocean and air freight analytics platform, as saying in a statement.

She added that concerns associated with conflict in the Red Sea and the ongoing drought in the Panama Canal have already made it difficult for freight services from Asia to the US East Coast. If Baltimore cannot be reached, other ports will handle additional shipments, such as those in New York, New Jersey, and Virginia.

Whether ocean freight shipping rates will rise dramatically, potentially affecting consumers as retailers pass along higher costs, will depend on how much extra capacity the alternate ports can handle, Stausbll said. However, there is only so much port capacity available and this will leave supply chains vulnerable to any further pressure.

Last year, the Port of Baltimore handled a record 52.3 million tonnes of foreign cargo worth $80 billion, according to the state.

The collapse, though, is not likely to hurt worldwide trade because Baltimore is not a major port for container vessels. Its facilities are more important when it comes to goods such as farm equipment and autos, said Judah Levine, head of research for global freight booking platform Freightos.

President Biden intends for the federal government to pick up the entire cost of rebuilding. This is going to take some time, he said.

Similar bridge collapses

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, according to a 2018 report from the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Eighteen of those collapses happened in the United States, according to AP.

Among them was a 2002 incident in which a barge struck the Interstate 40 bridge over the Arkansas River at Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, sending vehicles plunging into the water. Fourteen people died and 11 were injured.

In 2001, a tugboat and barge struck the Queen Isabella Causeway in Port Isabel, Texas, causing a section of the bridge to tumble 80 feet (24 meters) into the bay below. Eight people were killed.

With inputs from agencies
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, 44, is all set to become Senegals fifth and youngest president after main rival Amadou Ba conceded defeat following Sundays first round vote. Heres what does he proposes to do once he takes office

Celebrating a sweeping triumph, Opposition figure Bassirou Diomaye Faye, aged 44, ascends to the title of president-elect  becoming the countrys fifth and youngest president  after his main rival, Amadou Ba, conceded defeat following Sundays first-round vote in the recent presidential elections.

Positioned as a beacon of change, Faye, alongside mentor Ousmane Sonko, promises to reshape Senegals political landscape.

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Central to his agenda is restoring democratic institutions, curbing executive power, and tackling corruption. He also plans to renegotiate international contracts, potentially introducing a new currency.

However, challenges loom, including a minority in parliament and high expectations from citizens. As Faye prepares to assume office, heres what kind of change he propose to do once he takes office.

Restore democracy

Faye says the very foundation of his political project is the rehabilitation of the institutions of the Republic and the restoration of the state based on the rule of law which he asserts were flouted by outgoing twice-elected incumbent Macky Sall.

Faye says he wants to fight against what he terms hyper-presidentialism, which he asserts has led to a stranglehold of the executive on legislative and judicial powers, leading to an instrumentalisation of justice to chase down opponents and jail them.

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Faye, backed by popular Opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, has vowed to protect Senegal from corruption and interference from foreign powers like former colonial master France. AP

The incoming head of state is promising to limit the powers of the president, hoping to introduce impeachment, the post of vice-president, prohibit the accumulation of political mandates, fight corruption and introduce alternatives to imprisonment.

Wealth redistribution

Let no one have us believe that we cannot embody our own sovereignty, was the leitmotif of the charismatic Sonko  Fayes political fellow traveller but prevented from standing in this years poll.

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From now on, we shall be a sovereign, independent state that will collaborate with everyone but in win-win partnerships, Sonko declared at Fayes final campaign rally.

The new president is vowing to reclaim sovereignty, a word he used no fewer than 18 times in his manifesto, which includes a commitment to renegotiating mining and hydrocarbon contracts that are set to take effect this year.

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Faye also wants to reassess fishing accords with foreign powers, as the fish resources which support some 600,000 Senegalese families are dwindling, plundered  they say  by European and Asian trawlers.

His manifesto furthermore emphasises the need to develop the primary sector to ensure food security and move towards self-sufficiency, notably the staple of rice.

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New currency

Faye is also promising monetary reform  potentially even the introduction of a new currency, the Senegal, in place of the CFA franc, a regional currency which predates independence 65 years ago from former colonial masters France and which is pegged to the euro.

He stressed during his campaign that the proposal, viewed with some concern in financial circles, would not be brought in immediately and would only be pursued under a number of strict conditions.

Supporters of Senegalese presidential candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye in Dakar, Senegal. Reuters

In an interview with French daily Le Monde, Faye said that in order to leave the CFA franc this would ideally be done within the framework of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) with the Eco, the West African single currency project that has yet to come to materialise.

We could have either a national currency pegged to a community currency or to a common currency, he said. If the project does not come to fruition, then we will have to consider taking our sovereignty into our own hands.

Diplomatic rebalance and pan-African unity

The incoming leader wants to rebalance international partnerships and reset the relationship with France, Senegals main trading partner.

Sonko had earlier signalled an era of rebalancing Dakars relations with the world.

What they want is a win-win policy, its economic patriotism, Babacar Ndiaye, a political analyst at the Wathi think-tank, told AFP.

Claiming to be a Pan-Africanist, Faye wishes to strengthen Senegals diplomatic presence across Africa and promote regional integration within ECOWAS while reinforcing the role of parliament and Senegals court of justice.

Challenges ahead

Senegalese voters backed Faye in the first round as they see him as the man to break with the countrys recently turbulent past and deliver change.

But there will be no state of grace, warned Ndiaye, who said the people will want to see results  and quickly.

The time needed for adaptation, coupled with a delicate international context, could prevent the new government from delivering rapid results, according to political analyst El Hadji Mamadou Mbaye.

Even so, said Mbaye, Faye has the advantage of having a first-round success which obviated the need for a coalition government  something that could have weakened his project through the need for political alliances.

The challenge is now whether they are going to be ready to deliver and whether they have the means to do so, he added.

Another difficulty is that his party is in a minority in parliament.

Faye has not ruled out dissolving the Assembly should he find a majority opposing him and preventing him from putting his reforms into action.

With inputs from AFP
New guidelines on pilot rest and duty periods have been suspended by DGCA. The new rules provided enhanced weekly rest for pilots from 26 hours to 48 hours. Under the present guidelines, a pilot can now make six landings during night flights. These would drop to two under the new regulations put on hold

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had notified the revised rules governing duty hours and rest periods for pilots in January earlier this year. Pexels

New guidelines on pilot rest and duty periods have been suspended by the civil aviation authority, DGCA.

Airlines now have indefinite time to implement a plan that complies with the updated rest regulations.

The airlines will currently stick to the pilot duty roster that was created in 2019 in accordance with the previous regulations.

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The development comes days after it rejected requests by airlines to postpone the new norms, reiterating that the revised schedule will have to be implemented from 1 June.

According to The Times of India sources, the move comes from the Ministry of Civil Aviation as the government was concerned about cancellation of flights during election season. The new rules are likely to be framed after further consultations with airlines.

The deferred new rules

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had notified the revised rules governing duty hours and rest periods for pilots in January earlier this year.

The new rules, which are now postponed, will provide enhanced weekly rest for pilots, which has gone up from 26 hours to 48 hours. Additionally, it lessens flying at night, which is known to increase fatigue and lower attention.

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A pilot may make six landings during night flight under the present standards from 2019, which will gradually drop to two under the new regulations.

The revised regulations also limit the maximum flying duty period for flights that approach nighttime to eight hours from 10 hours.

Several Indian pilots are complaining of fatigue, owing to increased number of flights. Image used for representational purposes/Reuters

Besides, the night hours for pilots will be extended to cover the period from 12 am-6 am, whereas it was 12 am-5 am hours earlier.

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Additionally, all airlines are required to provide quarterly fatigue reports, which are to be submitted in accordance with a non-punitive and confidential policy.

The reason for the amendment

The regulator responded to complaints from multiple pilots that airlines were exploiting its lax regulations to extend their work hours without informing them, so it changed the duty hours.

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A pilots sense of judgement and timing can be affected, perhaps resulting in a human error, when they experience a decline in mental and physical performance together with a lack of attention.

Flight pilot fatigue is defined by the DGCA as a physiological and psychological state of exhaustion and weariness that pilots experience as a result of extended awake periods and/or inadequate restorative sleep.

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The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has identified pilot fatigue as a crucial factor for large aircraft and identifies it as state of well-being and fitness for duties.

Last year in August, an IndiGo pilot died due to a sudden cardiac arrest at the Nagpur airport minutes before operating the flight.

Earlier in January this year, the Indonesian Airbus A320 veered off course for a while as its pilots dozed for nearly half an hour mid-flight. According to BBC, the aircraft, however, landed safely, with no harm to any of the 153 passengers and crew members.

A 2022 study by the non-profit organisation Safety Matters Foundation stated that 66 per cent of 542 surveyed Indian pilots admitted falling asleep on the flight without the consent of their fellow pilots.

About 31 per cent revealed having a close call while flying which could have caused an incident due to fatigue.

Also read: How do pilots beat fatigue, stay awake? They pop this pill

Criticism from airlines

In a letter to the DGCA in February, the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), which is made up of Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, requested a postponement of the 1 June implementation deadline since it might have a major effect on their companies.

It further stated that the regulations will reduce the competitiveness of the Indian aviation sector relative to other nations and are the most stringent globally.

They also stated that by 1 June, they wont be able to hire and train new pilots, which will force them to increase their pilot count by 25 per cent and cancel up to 20 per cent of their flights.

Airlines have expressed concern, claiming that during the busiest summer travel season, flight cancellations would result in higher airfares.

Due to budgetary constraints and engine problems, about 20% of Indian airlines fleet is grounded, meaning that, rates have already increased.

Pilot shortages are a problem for many airlines relative to industry demand. According to data from CAPA, as of December 2023, there were 9,524 commercial pilots registered with the DGCA and a total of 771 aircraft with various Indian airlines.

With inputs from agencies
Theres much waiting to happen today as the Delhi High Court will hear a petition by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in the liquor policy case. The Indian Navy will also hold an exercise with the US along the Kakinada coast

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal being taken away from his residence after he was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in an excise policy-linked money laundering case, in New Delhi. File image/PTI

We are nearing the end of the month but the news continues.

From Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwals high court hearing, challenging his arrest, to the Indian and US navies holding a joint exercise, theres much expected to happen today.

Heres our guide to the biggest news events today.

Delhi High Court hear Kejriwals challenge

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The Delhi High Court will today hear a petition by Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money-laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam.

Kejriwals petition, which has sought his immediate release on account of the arrest and the subsequent remand to ED being illegal, is listed for hearing before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma at 10.30 am, reports news agency PTI.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener was arrested on 21 March and subsequently remanded to the EDs custody till 28 March by a Delhi court.

Indian and US navies to hold joint exercise in Kakinada

The Indian and US navies will conduct a joint exercise at Kakinada coast from 27 to 29 March. On Wednesday, the exercises will be held in the middle of the sea between Visakhapatnam and Kakinada coast.

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Superintendent of Police S Satish Kumar told the Deccan Chronicle that nearly 800 naval personnel from both the countries would participate in the joint exercise.

Actor-turned-politician and Jana Sena (JS) party president Pawan Kalyan will also be contesting from the Pithapuram constituency. File image/PTI

Pawan Kalyan to kickstart his election campaign

Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan will begin his election campaign today from Pithapuram Assembly constituency from where he is contesting the polls.

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A Times of India report said that his focus will be on Pithapuram for the first three days before moving on to the north coastal Andhra region.

Kalyan will use a helicopter to travel to different destinations from Pithapuram and return daily to meet with local residents.

IPL 2024: Sunrisers Hyderabad to take on Mumbai Indians in Hyderabad

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Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will take on the Mumbai Indians today in an IPL fixture being played at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

Earlier, Sunrisers narrowly lost to Kolkata Knight Riders in their opening fixture as they fell short by four runs in a chase of 209. Harshit Rana successfully defended 12 runs in a thrilling final-over contest. It all boiled down to Andre Russells death overs blasting that trumped Henrich Klassens power-hitting.

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A man in a Viagra costume marches in the Krewe du Vieux 2015 parade, the first parade of the Mardi Gras festivities, through the French Quarter in New Orleans. File image/Reuters

This day that year: Viagra was approved by the FDA

On 27 March 1998, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Viagra for male impotence. In the immediate years since its approval, US pharmacists dispensed more than 40,000 Viagra prescriptions. In fact, in the first year alone, the $8-$10 pills yielded about a billion dollars in sales.

Viagras impact on the pharmaceutical and medical industries, as well as on the public consciousness, was also enormous. Though available by prescription only, Viagra was marketed on television.
The iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed into the Patapsco River on Tuesday, one of several notable disasters in the United States involving ships or barges colliding with bridges. From 1960 to 2015, there were 18 major bridge collapses that took place in the country

This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows a view of the Francis Scott Key Bridge that was struck by a container ship in Baltimore, US. AP

Baltimore, in the United States, witnessed a devastating tragedy in the early hours of Tuesday.

The iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge, a vital artery in the citys infrastructure, has collapsed into the Patapsco River. This catastrophic event occurred when a container ship collided with the bridge, causing it to fracture and eventually plunge into the frigid waters of the river at around 1.30 am Eastern Time (ET). In its destructive descent, the bridge swept vehicles and innocent people into the depths below.

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At least eight people from a construction crew who were fixing potholes on the bridge are believed to have fallen into the 185-metre-deep river, where water temperatures were estimated to be 47 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius)  the upper limit of what a human could survive if they fell into water.

So far, only two individuals have been pulled out of the water. One of them was unharmed, but the other suffered serious injuries and was taken to the hospital. Officials called off the search and rescue effort on Tuesday night, and the six missing construction workers are presumed dead.

Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, declared a state of emergency early Tuesday.

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All 22 crew members on the container ship that collided with the Baltimore bridge were Indians , according to the vessels management company, and they were all safe and secure.

The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. AP

The disaster joins the list of bridge collapses caused by ships and barges, the majority of which occurred in the United States. From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collision, with a total of 342 people killed, according to a 2018 report from the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure. Eighteen of those collapses happened in the United States.

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Heres a list of notable disasters involving ships or barges hitting bridges in the US:

Popps Ferry Bridge

20 March, 2009: A vessel pushing eight barges rammed into the Popps Ferry Bridge in Biloxi, Mississippi, resulting in a 150-foot section of the bridge collapsing into the bay.

Interstate 40 bridge

26 May, 2002: A barge hit the Interstate 40 bridge over the Arkansas River at Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, collapsing a 500-foot section of road and plunging vehicles into the water. Fourteen people died and 11 were injured.

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Queen Isabella Causeway

15 September, 2001: A tugboat and barge struck the Queen Isabella Causeway in Port Isabel, Texas, causing a midsection of the bridge to tumble 80 feet into the bay below. Eight people died after motorists drove into the hole.

Eads Bridge

14 April, 1998: The Anne Holly tow traveling through the St. Louis Harbor rammed into the centre span of the Eads Bridge. Eight barges broke away. Three of them hit a permanently moored gambling vessel below the bridge. Fifty people suffered minor injuries.

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Big Bayou Canot

22 September, 1993: Barges being pushed by a towboat in dense fog hit and displaced the Big Bayou Canot railroad bridge near Mobile, Alabama. Minutes later, an Amtrak train with 220 people aboard reached the displaced bridge and derailed, killing 47 people and injuring 103 people.

Seeber Bridge

28 May, 1993: The towboat Chris, pushing the empty hopper barge DM3021, hit a support tier of the Judge William Seeber Bridge in New Orleans. Two spans and the two-column bent collapsed onto the barge. Two cars carrying three people fell with the four-lane bridge deck into a canal. One person died and two people were seriously injured.

Sunshine Skyway Bridge

9 May, 1980: The 609-foot freighter Summit Venture was navigating through the narrow, winding shipping channel of Floridas Tampa Bay when a sudden, blinding squall knocked out the ships radar. The ship sheared off a support of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, dropping a 1,400-foot section of concrete roadway during the morning rush hour. Seven vehicles, including a bus with 26 aboard, fell 150 feet into the water. Thirty-five people died.

With inputs from AP
Various theories have emerged attributing blame for the collapse of Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge, which was struck by a container ship, ranging from criticisms of the Biden administration and COVID lockdowns to references to World War and Israeli intervention. Heres a closer look

A Coast Guard helicopter passes a cargo ship that is stuck under the part of the structure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after the ship his the bridge in Baltimore, US. AP

WW3 has started.

This ship was cyber-attacked.

The tragedy is linked to the United States abstention in a UN Security Council vote calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza war.

Though the investigation is still ongoing, and authorities have stated that they suspect no foul play in the collapse of Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge , which was struck by a container ship, many people on social media have made shocking claims.

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Various theories have emerged attributing blame for the collision, ranging from criticisms of the Biden administration and COVID lockdowns to references to World War and Israeli intervention. Notably, prominent figures such as Fox Business journalist Maria Bartiromo, Michael Flynn (former advisor to ex-president Donald Trump), and Andrew Tate have contributed to these discussions.

Lets take a closer look.

The collapse looks deliberate

If Andrew Tate, a kickboxer-turned-influencer facing rape and human trafficking charges in Romania, is to be believed, the collapse of the Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore was a cyber-attacked.

Lights go off and it deliberately steers towards the bridge support, Tate claimed on X.

Foreign agents of the USA attack digital infrastructures. Nothing is safe, his post reads.

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This ship was cyber-attacked.



Lights go off and it deliberately steers towards the bridge supports.



Foreign agents of the USA attack digital infrastructures.



Nothing is safe.



Black Swan event imminent. pic.twitter.com/14SBqK8tJA  Andrew Tate (@Cobratate) March 26, 2024

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InfoWars founder Alex Jones, found liable in multiple defamation lawsuits for claiming the 2012 Sandy Hook elementary school mass shooting was a hoax, reposted the allegation.

Looks deliberate to me, he said. A cyber-attack is probable. WW3 has already started.

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There was no immediate confirmation of the cause of the collapse, but Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said there was no indication of terrorism.

Footage appeared to show the ship going dark twice in the moments before the collision, and Maryland governor Wes Moore said during a press conference Tuesday that the crew notified authorities of a power issue.

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Moore added that officials had not seen any credible evidence of a terrorist attack. Bill DelBagno, special agent in charge of the FBIs Baltimore field office, also said there was no evidence of terrorism.

Some blame Israel and Islamic State

Some on X (formerly Twitter) are linking the tragedy to the United States abstention in a UN Security Council vote calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza war.

Did Israel just hit the US over not using the veto power yesterday?? one account said in a post with thousands of interactions.

This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows a view of the Francis Scott Key Bridge that was struck by a container ship in Baltimore, US. AP

Others blamed the bridge collapse on the Islamic State group or corporate diversity initiatives that have become a flashpoint ahead of the US presidential election, while suggestions of a false flag populated the most conspiratorial pages.

Synergy Marine Group, the managers of the Singapore-flagged Dali container ship controlled by two Baltimore port pilots at the time of the collision, said the cause of the crash has yet to be determined. None of the crew were injured.

Biden administration behind

Conspiracy theories and attacks on the Biden administration are the primary concerns of right-wingers, as has been the case with almost every major tragedy in American history.

During an interview with Senator Rick Scott (R-Florida), Fox News Maria Bartiromo attempted to link Bidens border policy to the tragedy. On Newsmax, Representative Nancy Mace (R-South Carolina) claimed that Bidens bipartisan infrastructure bill was to blame because it emphasised Green New Deal spending.

The collapse was described as a Black Swan event by Michael Flynn, former President Donald Trumps national security advisor.

This is a BLACK SWAN event.



Black swans normally come out of the world of finance (not military). The standard operating procedures for all U.S. ports, harbors, and bays that transit commerce and military activities are supposed to maintain an incredible level of discipline, https://t.co/4fmSMaaJGd  General Mike Flynn (@GenFlynn) March 26, 2024

For those unfamiliar, a Black Swan event is a term used to describe an unexpected event that has a significant impact and is frequently rationalised after the fact with the benefit of hindsight. Flynn, who was previously suspended for spreading conspiracy theories about the 2020 US elections, appeared to suggest that the collapse was not accidental.

American Conservative Union president Matt Schlapp suggested that drug-addled employees and lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic were to blame for the bridge collapse, on Newsmax.

All I would say is that if you talk to employers in America, theyll tell you that filling slots with employees who arent drug-addled is a very huge problem; so, Im making no specific charges here because we dont know. But you know, anybody who flies in America can see that youre constantly waiting on a tarmac somewhere for some crew to show up, Schlapp told Newsmax, reports AlterNet.

Investigation underway

Moore stated that a preliminary investigation revealed the collision was an accident and that there was no reason to suspect terrorism.

There is no specific and credible information to suggest any ties to terrorism at this time, the FBIs Baltimore field office said on X.

The investigation is ongoing.

With inputs from AFP
Despite Kate, the Princess of Wales, making her cancer diagnosis public, conspiracy theories surrounding her have not stopped. The UK government is concerned that rogue actors with links to Russia or China could be behind the rumour mills. But what do they gain?

Kate, Princess of Wales, at a ceremony at the Cenotaph on Whitehall in central London, on 12 November, 2023. She announced her cancer diagnosis on 22 March after being absent from the public eye for months following an abdominal surgery. File photo/AFP

Is the Kate cancer video AI-generated? What cancer does she have? For weeks, the intense speculation over the absence of the Princess of Wales from the public eye probably forced her to take to social media and announce to the world that she has cancer. Youd think with the sombre news, the conspiracy theories would stop. But they continue.

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But who is spreading the rumours? It is not the curious everyday social media user. There could be a larger hand at play. The United Kingdom government is concerned that the countrys adversaries are fuelling disinformation about the future queen. There is a possibility that hostile states like Russia, China and Iran are involved.

A message from Catherine, The Princess of Wales pic.twitter.com/5LQT1qGarK  The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) March 22, 2024

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Are Russia, China, Iran involved?

Days before Kate revealed her cancer diagnosis in a video message , there was a surge in rumours about her and ill-founded speculation about her health. It put a lot of pressure on the royal couple and Kensington Palace. The barrage of misinformation caught the attention of the British government and now senior officials fear that rival nations could be involved. According to a report in The Telegraph, Russia, China, and Iran are spreading conspiracy theories and online rumours surrounding the Princess of Waless health.

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After Kate announced her cancer diagnosis, UK prime minister Rishi Sunak hit out at social media trolls for targeting the royal online. He urged that the princess should be given privacy to focus on her treatment.

The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country as she continues her recovery, Sunak said after Kates declaration. She has shown tremendous bravery with her statement today [on Friday]. In recent weeks, she has been subjected to intense scrutiny and has been unfairly treated by certain sections of the media around the world and on social media.

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The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country. pic.twitter.com/IFX51Wm5Q3  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) March 22, 2024

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But even as Kate received sympathy and despite Sunaks intervention, the commentary about her health continued. Some criticised her for not revealing her diagnosis earlier.

There has been growing concern in Whitehall that hostile state actors could be behind the social media frenzy targeting Kate. A government source told The Telegraph, Part of the modus operandi of hostile states is to destabilise things  whether that is undermining the legitimacy of our elections or other institutions.

This grab taken from a video released by the BBC Studios shows Britains Kate, the Princess of Wales recording her message announcing that following her abdominal surgery in January, tests found cancer had been present. Kate, said on Friday that she is undergoing chemotherapy. BBC Studios via AP

A Russian disinformation group at work

Disinformation groups based in Russia added fuel to the fire, amplifying the Kate conspiracy theories, according to a BBC report.

The rise in online rumours is a hallmark sign of a coordinated campaign, sharing and adding to the false claims and divisive content, security experts analysing social media were quoted as saying by the publication. They say that this matches earlier patterns of a Russian disinformation group.

Also read: Kates cancer diagnosis: Are more young people being diagnosed with cancer?

The social media data surrounding Kate was examined by a team of researchers at Cardiff University, Wales. The researchers found that many new accounts spreading the Kate conspiracy theories were created this month and used identical language. Some TikTok accounts created recently were dedicated to spreading rumours about the royal family and royal hashtags were shared billions of times across various social networks. All of this suggests the role of an organised network, the BBC reports.

The accounts involved were also spreading content on Frances backing for Ukraine.

A montage of the front pages of some of Britains Sunday newspapers pictured in London. Support has poured in from around the world for Kate after she revealed in a video message that she is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. AP

Martin Innes, director of the Security, Crime and Intelligence Innovation Institute at Cardiff University, told the BBC that the Russian disinformation group is not a state entity but is linked to those sanctioned recently in the US over claims they were part of a malign influence campaign that spread fake news.

Their messaging around Kate appears wrapped up in their ongoing campaigns to attack Frances reputation, promote the integrity of the Russian elections, and denigrate Ukraine as part of the wider war effort, he said.

The operatives behind the rumours hijack popular claims, adding to the confusion and noise. This makes it difficult to distinguish them from other social media users simply sharing the rumours to grab more eyeballs.

Also read: Whats going on with Kate? The royal mess over a manipulated picture

Dr Jon Roozenbeek, an expert in disinformation at Kings College London, was quoted by the BBC as saying that Russian involvement in conspiracy theories is topic agnostic. It does not care about the subject, it can be anything that pushes buttons and adds to social tensions.

While Kate is the target now, it was Meghan earlier. In the past, suspicious bot-like X accounts linked to Russian conspiracy theorists obsessively posted about the Duchess of Sussex.

Flowers and a letter to the Princess of Wales were left outside Windsor Castle in Windsor, England. Princess of Waless revelation she is undergoing cancer treatment has sparked an outpouring of support and well wishes from around the world. Yet some conspiracy theories continue to swirl. AP

Chinas grouse with the UK

The possibility of Chinas role comes amid rising tensions between the two nations. On Monday, the UK government formally accused Beijing of orchestrating a malicious cyber campaign against its MPs and the election commission.

Two people and a company have been sanctioned  their assets will be frozen, prohibiting them from doing business in the UK and they will be banned from entering the country. UK deputy PM Oliver Dowden said they were behind attempts to access details of MPs critical of Beijing and the data of potentially 40 million voters.

Beijing has denied the allegations with the Chinese embassy in the UK calling them completely unfounded.

The UK has imposed several sanctions on China, including last month against Chinese companies accused of aiding the Ukraine war. In 2021, it sanctioned the Chinese government for systematic human rights violations against Uyghurs and other minority groups.

Some of the rumours said that there was trouble in the marriage of Prince William and Kate. File photo/AP

Damage to the royal family

Even after Kates announcement, conspiracy theories continue to spread wildly.

Many on X and TikTok claimed the princesss message was an AI-enabled deepfake. Some users posted slowed-down versions of the video to support the baseless claim that it was digitally manipulated, asking why nothing in the background  a leaf or blade of grass  moved. Others scrutinised her facial movements and speculated why a dimple, as seen in previous images, wasnt visible, according to a report by AFP.

Sorry House of Windsor, Kate Middleton (and) legacy media  Im still not buying what youre selling, said one post on X.

Britains Prince Harry, with Meghan Markle, Prince William and Kate arrive at the Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey in London, Britain, in March 2018. Like Kate, Meghan was also reportedly a target of fake news by Russia-linked conspirators. File photo/Reuters

And then there was misinformation about cancer itself, with posts falsely claiming that the disease was not fatal while comparing chemotherapy with poison. And how could anti-vaccine campaigners be left behind?

Many of them jumped on the conspiracy bandwagon, baselessly linking Kates diagnosis to turbo cancer, a myth linked to COVID-19 vaccines that has been repeatedly debunked.

There is no evidence to support the turbo cancer lie, said Timothy Caulfield, a misinformation expert from the University of Alberta in Canada. Conspiracy theorists are cruel grifters marketing fear (and) misinformation, he added.

The social media attacks have caused damage to the royal family.

Imran Ahmed, chief executive of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, told BBC, What really, I think, annoyed me was seeing that she was then being revictimised by being blamed for not having come out immediately I think its the inhumanity of the way that social media has made us behave, forcing people to talk about things that can be very deeply personal.

And also seeing of course the impact of that on our society, how quickly it was picked up by millions of people, and how much its done damage to the Royal family themselves, he added.

With inputs from agencies
In a historic first, Saudi Arabia will enter the Miss Universe pageant this year, with model Rumy Alqahtani being its candidate. The conservative kingdom has given more rights to its women in recent years, including lifting the ban on driving. But are they enough?

Rumy Alqahtani is Saudi Arabia's first candidate in the Miss Universe competition. Image Courtesy: Instagram/rumy_alqahtani

In a historic first, Saudi Arabia is poised to take part in the Miss Universe pageant this year. The announcement was made by beauty pageant veteran Rumy Alqahtani on her Instagram two days back.

She is the kingdoms first candidate for the global competition. Dressed in a strapless sequined gown, the model shared her pictures and wrote in a post in Arabic, I am honoured to participate in the Miss Universe 2024 competition. This is the debut of Saudi Arabia in the Miss Universe competition.

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The Islamic kingdoms maiden participation in the beauty contest is another example of how the conservative country is opening up to the world. Saudi Arabia has undergone rapid transformation under its Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, popularly known as MBS.

The Miss Universe participation has also brought the focus back to how womens rights have seen a major shift in recent years in the Muslim country.

Lets take a closer look.

The positive reforms for women in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has tweaked its repressive laws in recent years. It allowed women to drive in June 2018. Since then, several women have taken the wheel, some even becoming mechanics and taxi drivers.

Women can now obtain their own passports, travel outside the country and live independently without the permission of a male guardian, or wali.

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In 2018, Saudi Crown Prince bin Salman relaxed the dress code for women, removing the mandate to wear the abaya  a long, loose garment that usually has a black headscarf or niqab  in public.

Saudi Arabia lifted the ban on driving for women in 2018. Reuters File Photo

However, women are still required to dress decently. As per The Week magazine, wearing heavy make-up is also not considered appropriate.

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The 2019 reforms permit women to register as a head of household, meaning they can legally act on behalf of their children. Women in Saudi Arabia can also register for marriage, divorce and birth of their children.

Saudi Arabia has removed the discriminatory practice of firing women from their workplace for pregnancy.

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Women can take a pilgrimage to Mecca without a male guardian but only in a group. While the kingdom has eased rules on gender segregation, the implementation has been uneven.

In 2019, the kingdom appointed its first female ambassador to the United States  Princess Reema bint Bandar. Last May, Saudi astronaut Rayyanah Barnawi became the first Arab woman in space when she worked as a mission specialist on the Axiom Mission 2 spaceflight to the International Space Station.

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Still not equal to men

Despite all the recent social reforms, womens status is still far from equal to men in the kingdom. Saudi Arabia was ranked 131 out of 146 countries in the World Economic Forums Global Gender Gap Index 2023.

Saudi Arabias Personal Status Law (PSL), which bolsters the male guardianship system, passed in March 2022 is a classic example of the differential treatment that the country subjects its women to.

As per the legislation, women need a male guardians permission to marry and, after marriage, are expected to obey their husbands.

While the legal age for marriage has been fixed at 18, the law allows courts to permit marriages of girls and boys under 18 in some cases.

Despite all the social reforms, womens status is still far from equal to men in the kingdom. Reuters File Photo

Saudi law does not criminalise marital rape. Men can initiate divorce by merely informing their wives, but women need their husbands consent for a khula (separation). Women also have to repay their mahr (dowry) in such cases, noted the human rights organisation Amnesty International.

In case of separation, women get custody of the child automatically but the father remains the childs legal guardian and can make important decisions for the kid.

Saudi laws also fail to protect women from domestic violence and sexual abuse in marriage. Same-sex relationships remain banned.

Abortion is allowed in Saudi Arabia only in the event of a threat to the mothers physical or mental health.

The kingdom has continued its oppression of womens rights activists. Any criticism is met with harsh punishments, including jail terms.

Womens rights activists who call for the end of the male guardianship system have faced imprisonment, travel bans and curbs on their freedom of expression, noted Amnesty.

Despite recent reforms, women in Saudi Arabia still live under an inherently discriminatory system, Dana Ahmed, a Middle East researcher for Amnesty International, told The Media Line last year.

How Saudi Arabia is changing

The social reforms are a part of MBS Saudi Vision 2030 Project under which the kingdom aims to diversify its economy, reducing its reliance on oil. The country, which was relatively close to the world for years, has been making active attempts to reverse that.

Saudis various transformations align with this vision to attract foreign companies and tourists.

Riyadh is investing in technology and innovation, such as the project NEOM which entails the creation of smart cities to offer a new future to urban life.

Under Vision 2030, the kingdom plans to develop local industries and logistics hubs, along with generating hundreds of thousands of jobs for Saudi nationals, reported Reuters.

Saudi Arabia is also banking on tourism to modernise its economy. The kingdom has tried to lure visitors from across the world in recent years by offering tourist visas and holding cruises on the coast.

This January, Saudi Arabia opened its first liquor store in 70 years in the capital Riyadh for non-Muslim diplomats. Drinking alcohol is prohibited in Islam and Saudi Arabia is one of the few countries that still have a liquor ban.

By entering the Miss Universe pageant for the first time, Saudi Arabia is taking another step towards change. However, critics question the relevancy of such beauty contests in todays age. Opinions remain divided. While some object to these beauty contests for sexually objectifying women, others argue they celebrate the strength and beauty of womens bodies.

Amidst all the reforms, one question that arises is  no matter the progress in Saudi Arabia, how much change have women actually seen in their everyday lives?

With inputs from agencies
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 in an excise policy-linked money laundering case and subsequently remanded to the agencys custody till March 28

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will reveal the truth about the so-called liquor scam when he appears in front of the Delhi High Court on Thursday, said his wife Sunita Kejriwal.

Arvind Kejriwal has said he will reveal before the court on March 28 where money of so-called liquor scam is. He will truthfully tell the people of the country where the money is and will also provide evidence, Sunita Kejriwal said in a video message on Wednesday.

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So called      ,       CM @ArvindKejriwal l Smt. @KejriwalSunita Addressing an Important Press Conference l LIVE https://t.co/KZKMnbOuU0  AAP (@AamAadmiParty) March 27, 2024

Kejriwal, who is also the national convener of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case. He was produced before a court which remanded him to the agencys custody till March 28.

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The case pertains to alleged irregularities and money laundering in framing and implementing the Delhi excise policy case 2022, which was scrapped later.

Sunita Kejriwal meets husband Arvind Kejriwal at ED office

Sunita Kejriwal said she Arvind Kejriwal at the ED office on Tuesday.

In her press briefing, Sunita Kejriwal said: Despite two years of prove and more than 250 raids, the ED has not been able to find even one paisa in evidence. They are searching for the money of this so-called scam. They have found nothing yet They raided chief ministers residence but got just Rs 73,000, Sunita Kejriwal said.

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My husband issued directions to (Delhi) Water Minister Atishi while in custody. The Centre had issues with it. Do they want to ruin Delhi? Sunita Kejriwal asked, adding that Arvind Kejriwal was very sad over the issue.

The Delhi excise policy case came to fore from a report submitted by Delhi chief secretary Naresh Kumar to Lieutenant Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena in July 2022, pointing to alleged procedural lapses in the formulation of the policy.

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The report mentioned that arbitrary and unilateral decisions taken by Manish Sisodia in his capacity as Excise Minister had resulted in financial losses to the exchequer estimated at more than Rs 580 crore. The report was referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Sisodia was arrest.

With inputs from agencies
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said earlier police in UT was not trusted, but today they are leading the operations. The government, therefore, has plans to pull back troops and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone

The Centre will consider revoking the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Jammu and Kashmir, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah, adding that the government plans to pull back troops in the Union Territory (UT) and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police.

We will also think of revoking AFSPA, the minister said in an interview with the JK Media Group.

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Areas in J&K were brought under the AFSPA in September 1990 through a notification issued by the then state government, declaring the Kashmir valley a disturbed area under Section 3 of the law. It was only in August 2001 that the then state government extended the scope of AFSPA to Jammu province.

The AFSPA gives the armed forces personnel, operating in disturbed areas, sweeping powers to search, arrest and to open fire if they deem it necessary for the maintenance of public order.

For long, various organisations and individuals in J&K have been demanding to revoke the AFSPA.

Govt plans to pull back troops in J&K

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Shah also said the government has plans to pull back troops in the Union Territory (UT) and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone.

Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir police was not trusted, but today they are leading the operations. We have plans to pull back troops and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police alone, the minister said.

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PM Modis promise of enshrining democracy in J&K will be fulfilled

Enshrining democracy in Jammu and Kashmir is Prime Minister Narendra Modis promise and it will be fulfilled. However, this democracy will not be confined to three families alone and will be a peoples democracy, the Union Minister said.

The Supreme Court had directed to conduct the assembly polls in the UT before September.

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On the issues that have emerged around the reservation of SCs, STs and OBCs, Shah said for the first time, the OBCs of J-K have been given reservation by the Modi government and women have been given one-third reservation.

OBC reservations have been made in the panchayat and the urban local bodies. We have made space for the SCs and the STs. Without reducing the share of the Gujjar and Bakarwals, the Pahadis have been given 10 per cent reservation. And special provisions have been made to accommodate the displaced people from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, he said.

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The Centre is determined to ensure that these benefits percolate to the grassroots level, he said.

Shah claimed that National Conference (NC) leader Farooq Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti tried their best to create acrimony on these reservations but the people have understood their intentions now.

He asked why the NC did not give reservations to these people in the last over 75 years.

The home minister claimed Abdullah had left for England when terrorism was at its peak. Both Abdullah and Mehbooba have no right to speak about the issue, he added.

The number of fake encounters that took place during their time has never been matched by any other regime, he said.

Shah said in the last five years, not a single fake encounter has taken place. Rather, FIRs have been lodged against the people involved in fake encounters, he added.

We will have a dialogue with the youths of Kashmir and not with the organisations that have roots in Pakistan. They are responsible for the deaths of 40,000 youths, he said.

He said the Modi government has banned 12 organisations for their involvement in terror activities, designated 36 individuals as terrorists, registered more than 22 cases to stop terror financing and seized properties worth Rs 150 crore.

As many as 90 properties were also attached and 134 bank accounts have been frozen, he said.

We have enshrined peace, and peace cannot be bought. Whoever wants to have a dialogue has to do so within the ambit of the Constitution, he said.

Shah said the Hurriyat Conference has no place in the process of dialogue. He also made it clear that the BJP and the entire Parliament believe that the POK is an integral part of India.

The Muslim brothers are also Indians and the Hindu brothers living in POK are also Indians and the land which has been illegally occupied by Pakistan also belongs to India. It is the goal of every Indian, every Kashmiri to get it back, he said.

The home minister said in 2010, there were 2564 incidents of stone-pelting, which now is zero.

From 2004 to 2014, there were 7217 terror incidents. That has reduced to 2227 from 2014 to 2023, and this is almost a 70 per cent reduction, he said.

Shah said the total number of deaths from 2004 to 2014 was 2829 and it has come down to 915 during 2014-23, which is a 68 per cent decrease.

The deaths of civilians were 1770 and has decreased to 341, which is an 81 per cent drop. The deaths of security forces decreased from 1060 to 574, which is a 46 per cent decrease, he said.

The senior BJP leader said without the support of the people, such a comprehensive change can never take place.

The people who talk about Islam should know that 85 per cent of the deceased were our Muslim brothers and sisters, he said.

Shah also asked the youths of J-K to stay away from the conspiracies of Pakistan.

Today, Pakistan is shrouded by the scourge of hunger and poverty and even people there see Kashmir as heaven. I want to tell everyone that if anyone can save Kashmir, he is Prime Minister Modi, he said.

The home minister said the Modi government is boosting the morale of the security forces by giving jobs to the family members of the martyrs.

Today, not a single martyrs family is left without a job, he said.

With inputs from PTI
Kejriwals health deteriorates in ED custody

The blood sugar level of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is diabetic, is fluctuating and his health has deteriorated in Enforcement Directorate custody, AAP sources claimed on Wednesday.Kejriwals blood sugar level dropped to 46 Mg at one point of time and according to doctors, such a drop is very dangerous, they claimed. Earlier in the day, the chief ministers wife Sunita Kejriwal said in a digital briefing that she had met him in ED custody and his sugar level was fluctuating. She appealed people to pray for his health. Kejriwal was arrested by the ED last week in connection with the money laundering case linked to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. He is in ED custody till March 28.

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BJPs Dilip Ghosh apologises for father jab at Mamata

Hours after BJP president JP Nadda issued a notice seeking clarification from party leader Dilip Ghosh regarding his remarks on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerje, Ghosh on Wednesday apologised for his remarks. Ghosh was heard mocking the family background of Banerjee in a purported video clip. Maintaining that his party and other people have reservations about his choice of words, Ghosh said, If it is so, I am sorry for that. The TMC filed a complaint with the Election Commission against him over his comments, alleging that it violated the model code of conduct (MCC). Ghosh, the former state BJP president, said he has no personal enmity with the chief minister. This is not the first time that a controversy has erupted over my comments since I say it on the face of anyone who does any wrong, he said. Ghosh claimed that he had only protested Banerjees political statements.

FEMA case: ED summons TMC MP Mahua Moitra, businessman Darshan Hiranandani

The Enforcement Directorate has issued fresh summons to TMC leader Mahua Moitra and businessman Darshan Hiranandani for questioning in a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) contravention case on March 28, official sources said Wednesday.

The 49-year-old Trinamool Congress leader was called for questioning earlier also by the central agency. Moitra, who was expelled from the Lok Sabha in December for unethical conduct, has been renominated by her party from West Bengals Krishnanagar seat in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had raided her premises in connection with the cash-for-query case on Saturday, days after anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal directed the federal agency to investigate the allegations levelled against her by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey.

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Excise scam: ED seeks time to respond to Kejriwals plea against arrest

The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday urged the Delhi High Court to grant it time to file reply to a plea by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal challenging his arrest in a money-laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam. Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing for the agency, said the bulky petition was served upon them only on Tuesday, and three weeks time should be given to bring their stand on record. For interim relief as well, appropriate time should be given to respond, he said. Senior advocate AM Singhvi, appearing for the AAP leader, alleged that the request to file response was a delay tactic.

Challenge is to the foundation of arrest and there are several glaring issues that need immediate decision by the high court either way, the senior lawyer added. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma said she would take up the matter again after some time.

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Centre to consider revoking AFSPA in J&K: Amit Shah

The Centre will consider revoking the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Jammu and Kashmir, said Union Home Minister Amit Shah, adding that the government plans to pull back troops in the Union Territory (UT) and leave law and order to the Jammu and Kashmir Police. We will also think of revoking AFSPA, the minister said in an interview with the JK Media Group. Areas in J&K were brought under the AFSPA in September 1990 through a notification issued by the then state government, declaring the Kashmir valley a disturbed area under Section 3 of the law. It was only in August 2001 that the then state government extended the scope of AFSPA to Jammu province.The AFSPA gives the armed forces personnel, operating in disturbed areas, sweeping powers to search, arrest and to open fire if they deem it necessary for the maintenance of public order. For long, various organisations and individuals in J&K have been demanding to revoke the AFSPA.

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BJP sends notice to Dilip Ghosh, seeks clarification on father jab at Mamata

BJP president JP Nadda on Tuesday issued a notice seeking clarification from the party leader Dilip Ghosh regarding his remarks on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The BJP has written a letter stating that Ghoshs comment was indecent and unparliamentary and against the partys ethos and values. The party said it strongly condemned such comments and sought an explanation from Ghosh on this issue. While addressing reporters in Durgapur, BJP MP Ghosh said that wherever Mamata Banerjee goes, she calls herself the daughter of that state, and she must identify her own father. When Didi (CM Mamata Banerjee) goes to Goa, she calls herself the daughter of Goa. When she goes to Tripura, she says that she is the daughter of Tripura. She should first identify her own father Ghosh said.

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Delhi Assembly session today, first since Kejriwals arrest

The Delhi Assembly will convene for the first time today since Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was arrested in a money laundering case linked to the liquor policy case. Kejriwal has been sent to the custody of the Enforcement Directorate till March 28. In focus will be Kejriwals second order issued from lock-up seeking the availability of free medicines and pathological tests at government-run Mohalla clinics. Hours after Kejriwal issued directions to him to address the shortage of medicines, Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said a session of the Delhi Assembly will be held on Wednesday. Tomorrow is the session of the Delhi Assembly. The Chief Secretary has been ordered to inform the status of free medicines and free tests in hospitals and mohalla clinics and if there is any deficiency, then come up with a complete plan to correct it. So that I can inform the assembly, he said in a post on X.

With inputs from agencies
On Tuesday, the US government said they are closely monitoring the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and encourage a fair, transparent, and timely legal process

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Wednesday summoned the US Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Gloria Berbena in Delhi, two days after the US government said it was closely monitoring the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and encourage a fair, transparent, and timely legal process.

The meeting lasted for approximately 40 minutes.

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#WATCH | The Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi summoned the US' Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Gloria Berbena, today. The meeting lasted for approximately 40 minutes. pic.twitter.com/LGjD9IvX91  ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

India strongly objects to US State Department Spokespersons remarks

The MEA, in a statement, said the Indian government takes strong objection to the remarks of the Spokesperson of the US State Department about certain legal proceedings in India.

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In diplomacy, states are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. This responsibility is even more so in case of fellow democracies. It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents, the statement read.

Indias legal processes are based on an independent judiciary which is committed to objective and timely outcomes. Casting aspersions on that is unwarranted, the Indias foreign ministry said in the statement.

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What US said on Kejriwal arrest?

On Monday, a spokesperson of the US State Department said Washington is closely following reports of the arrest of Kejriwal and encourages a fair legal process.

We encourage a fair, transparent, and timely legal process for Chief Minister Kejriwal, Reuters reported the US spokesperson saying in response to an emailed query about the case, in which India summoned a German envoy on Saturday to protest against his governments remarks about the arrest.

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On Saturday, India summoned German deputy chief of mission and lodged a strong protest against the countrys foreign ministrys remarks on the arrest of Kejriwal.

The German envoy Georg Enzweiler was summoned by officials in MEA and was told that the German Foreign Ministrys remarks on Kejriwals arrest were an interference in Indias judicial process and any biased assumptions were most unwarranted, an MEA official said.

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On Friday Sebastian Fischer, spokesperson for Germanys foreign office said, Berlin had taken note.

We assume and expect that the standards relating to independence of judiciary and basic democratic principles will also be applied in this case, Fischer said, adding that like anyone else facing accusations, Kejriwal is entitled to a fair and impartial trial.

Delhi chief Minister and national convener of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case. He was produced before a court which remanded him to the agencys custody till March 28.

The case pertains to alleged irregularities and money laundering in framing and implementing the Delhi excise policy case 2022, which was scrapped later.

With inputs from agencies
India is set to allocate nearly $3.7 billion to fence its 1,610-km (1,000-mile) porous border with Myanmar over the span of about ten years, according to a report, citing source familiar with the matter

Mountain roads are pictured in the Champhai district of northeastern state of Mizoram, near the India-Myanmar border, on 13 March, 2021. Reuters File

India is set to allocate nearly $3.7 billion to fence its 1,610-km (1,000-mile) porous border with Myanmar over the span of about ten years, according to a Reuters report, citing source familiar with the matter.

Earlier this year, New Delhi announced its intention to fence the border, an initiative which aims to curb smuggling and other illicit activities, and terminate the long-standing visa-free movement arrangement with Myanmar for border residents, citing national security concerns and the preservation of the demographic composition of its northeastern region.

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A government committee, convened earlier this month, has greenlit the budget for the fencing project, pending approval from Prime Minister Narendra Modis cabinet, according to the source.

According to the report, requests for comment sent via email to the Prime Ministers Office and the Ministries of Home Affairs, Finance, Foreign Affairs, and Information and Broadcasting went unanswered at the time of reporting.

Myanmar has so far not commented on Indias fencing plans, added the report.

Since a military coup in Myanmar in 2021, thousands of civilians and hundreds of troops have fled from there to Indian states where people on both sides share ethnic and familial ties. This has worried New Delhi because of risk of communal tensions spreading to India.

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Some members of the Indian government have also blamed the porous border for abetting the tense situation in the restive northeastern Indian state of Manipur, abutting Myanmar. For nearly a year, Manipur has been engulfed by a civil war-like situation between two ethnic groups, one of which shares lineage with Myanmars Chin tribe.

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The committee of senior Indian officials also agreed to build parallel roads along the fence and 1,700 km (1,050 miles) of feeder roads connecting military bases to the border, the source said.

The fence and the adjoining road will cost nearly 125 million rupees per km, more than double that of the 55 million per km cost for the border fence with Bangladesh built in 2020, the source said, because of the difficult hilly terrain and the use of technology to prevent intrusion and corrosion.

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With inputs from agencies
Aarti, daughter of mayor of Nepals Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city was found at a hotel in North Goas Mandrem, around 20 kms from where she went missing

Aarti Hamal, the 36-year-old daughter of a mayor in Nepal, had gone missing in Goa. Image source: X

Aarti Hamal, the 36-year-old daughter of a mayor in Nepal, who had gone missing in Goa, was found safely after two days on Wednesday, her father Gopal Hamal confirmed.

A follower of Osho meditation, Aarti was untraceable since Monday night. She had been staying in Goa for the past few months.

Where was Goa mayors missing daughter found?

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According to a report by NDTV, Aarti was found at a hotel in North Goas Mandrem, around 20 kms from where she went missing.

Aarti was last seen near Ashwem Beach, her father earlier said in a post on X after which a massive search operation was initiated to trace her.

I inform all well wishers that my eldest daughter Aarti was found safely in Goa and health condition is weak due to the efforts of everyone, Gopal Hamal, Aartis father and the mayor of Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city, said.

Nepal mayor daughter found in hotel with two other friends

The NDTV report quoted a police officer saying, On Wednesday, Aarti was found in a hotel at Chopdem village along with two other women, who are her friends.

How did Goa police find Nepal mayors daughter?

After a missing persons complaint was filed on Tuesday, a frantic search operation was launched to hunt for Aarti. The police formed multiple teams led by senior police officers Akshat Kaushal, Pernem Jivaba Dalvi, and Inspector Sharif Jacques.

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Neighbouring hospitals, several hotels, and Osho Centre at Canacona were searched extensively by the police.

The mayors younger sister Arzoo Hamal and son-in-law, who arrived in Goa, also assisted the cops with the search.

Also Read: Nepal mayors daughter, a follower of Osho meditation, missing in Goa

Police said a thorough scanning of CCTV footage turned pivotal in tracing her, and she was safely located in Chopdem village in Goa within 12 hours.

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What led to the delay?

A police officer said Aarti had left her phone back at the Osho centre, due to which she could not be traced with the help of technical surveillance.

Nepal mayor expresses gratitude

I express my gratitude to all the people who helped in search work, along with the helpful Nepali brothers and sisters living in Goa, Gopal Hamal wrote in a message on Facebook.

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Along with my eldest daughter Aarti, youngest daughter Arju and son-in-law, I inform everyone that they are together, he added.
Election Commission of India on Wednesday issued show-cause notices to BJP MP Dilip Ghosh and Congress leader Supriya Shrinate for their derogatory remarks against West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and BJPs Lok Sabha candidate Kangana Ranaut, respectively

Election Commission of India on Wednesday issued show-cause notices to BJP MP Dilip Ghosh and Congress leader Supriya Shrinate for their derogatory remarks against West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and BJPs Lok Sabha candidate Kangana Ranaut, respectively.

Their remarks were undignified and in bad taste, the Election Commission (EC) said.

The poll panel said that prima facie, the two remarks were violative of the Model Code of Conduct and its advisory to political parties to maintain dignity during electioneering.

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The two have been asked to respond to the show-cause notices by 29 March evening.

On Tuesday, Ghosh, the Medinipur MP who has been fielded from the Bardhaman-Durgapur Lok Sabha seat this time by the BJP, mocked TMCs slogan of Bangla Nijer Meye ke chai (Bengal wants its own daughter).

When Didi (CM Mamata Banerjee) goes to Goa, she calls herself the daughter of Goa. When she goes to Tripura, she says that she is the daughter of Tripura. She should first identify her own father Ghosh said.

The TMC filed a complaint with the Election Commission against him over the comments, alleging that it violated the model code of conduct (MCC).

On Wednesday, the BJP also sought an explanation from Ghosh, who then issued an apology.

Maintaining that his party and other people have reservations about his choice of words, Ghosh said, If it is so, I am sorry for that.

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Congress leader Shrinate found herself in trouble when a controversial comment was posted on social media platforms from her accounts against actor Bollywood Kangana Ranaut, who has been fielded by the BJP as its candidate from the Mandi Lok Sabha constituency in Himachal Pradesh.

Following a row, Shrinate removed the controversial remarks from all of her social accounts, claiming that they had been posted not by her but by someone else who had access to her accounts.

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Rejecting Shrinates clarification, BJP national spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi slammed the Congress and said the dastardly comments by the partys social media head were not posted by default, but by design.

She deleted the post, saying someone who had access to her accounts had posted it. This makes it clear from where the social media accounts of the Congress are operated. The country should understand that such kind of negative and dastardly comments by the Congress are not made by default, but by design, he said on Tuesday.

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This proves that the Congress and the INDI Alliance are playing into the hands of some unknown powers, Trivedi alleged.

Ranaut had earlier hit out at Shrinate, saying that she has played various roles and every woman deserves dignity.

Dear Supriya ji, in the last 20 years of my career as an artist I have played all kinds of women. From a naive girl in Queen to a seductive spy in Dhaakad, from a goddess in Manikarnika to a demon in Chandramukhi, from a prostitute in Rajjo to a revolutionary leader in Thalaivii, Ranaut tweeted.

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Later talking to reporters, she said that every woman, irrespective of her background and profession, deserves dignity and that she was particularly pained by Congress leaders comments on Mandi from where she is contesting elections on a BJP ticket.

Mandi is often referred to as chota Kashi the world over, Ranaut told reporters outside the Chandigarh airport.

With inputs from agencies
By SA Commercial Prop News

Catalyst Fund Managers investment manager Paul Duncan says it is difficult to assess the scope for listed property to grow its proportionate size on the JSE.



South Africas listed property sector is set to undergo consolidation in 2014. The sector saw various listings in 2013 and, historically, listings booms are followed by consolidation.

Already at the end of this year there was activity in the market, with listed funds buying smaller listed funds.



Arrowhead bought a 31% stake in Vividend Income Fund in December for R430m. Also in December, Vukile Property Fund announced it had concluded an agreement to buy 34% of Synergy Income Fund in a deal valued at about R338m.



"We will see lots of consolidation activity in 2014 following this years listing boom," says Grindrod Asset Management chief investment officer Ian Anderson.



"Larger companies trading at low yields are buying smaller companies at higher yields. It makes sense," he says.



"We have the bigger companies acquiring smaller companies by issuing shares and not having to pay with debt, so we have earnings enhancing transactions."



The new real estate investment trust (Reit) structure for the industry is also expected to spur consolidation.



The Reit structure, which is recognised in most major property markets internationally, became available to the South African property sector early this year. It brought tax and regulatory changes to listed property groups, increasing foreign investment opportunities for South Africas property sector. The structure may be extended to unlisted groups in 2014.



"The main reason for the overhaul is that existing local structures, property loan stocks and property unit trusts, are unevenly regulated and subject to different tax treatments, prompting the need for a shared set of regulations," AJ Jansen van Nieuwenhuizen, head of tax at Grant Thornton Johannesburg, wrote in a paper earlier this year.



Growthpoint Properties executive director Estienne de Klerk says listed property is growing even if it does not contribute as much to South Africas stock market, the JSE, as listed property contributes to other developed stock markets.



Growthpoint is the listed sectors biggest counter and is included in the JSEs top 40 index. It has grown its market capitalisation from only R30m in 2002 to more than R50bn now.



With Growthpoints rapid growth, its foreign investor base has grown from 3% in 2009 to close to 20%.



But while South Africas listed property sector has developed substantially, the sectors contribution to the JSE is still well behind more developed markets, where listed property makes up "closer to 10%" of overall stock markets, Mr de Klerk says. He agrees Reit legislation and a number of planned new listings will see continued growth in the sector.



Catalyst Fund Managers investment manager Paul Duncan says it is difficult to assess the scope for listed property to grow its proportionate size on the JSE.



Mr Duncan says there is a large amount of direct real estate owned by institutions and unlisted funds which may list in the near future.



One consolidation that should go ahead next year is the merger of sister property companies Octodec Investments and Premium Properties, which got the go-ahead from linked unitholders at Octodecs annual general meeting in December.



Another potential merger is that of Acucap Properties and Sycom Property Fund, whose portfolio is managed by Acucap.



Analysts have said the merger makes commercial sense.



The merged entity would have a market capitalisation of about R16.5bn. It would be well behind giants Growthpoint Properties and Redefine Properties but much bigger than other local listed funds.
With the Moscow attack, the terrorist group seems to be expanding its geographical scope

A police officer stands guard next to a makeshift memorial near the Crocus City Hall following a deadly attack on the concert venue outside Moscow, on 26 March 2024. Reuters

Introduction

On 22 March 2024, at least 137 people were killed, including three children and more than 150 were injured when camouflaged gunmen stormed the Crocus City Hall, in Moscows Northern suburb of Krasnogorsk, and then set fire to the building. The attackers claimed to be members of the Islamic States Khorasan.

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The Islamic State wrote on Telegram on 23 March that the attack was carried out by four IS fighters armed with machine guns, a pistol, knives and firebombs, as part of the raging war with countries fighting Islam. They repeated their claim again on Saturday. While the original IS may have been largely defeated in the battlefields of Iraq and Syria, IS-KP is proving itself to be a worthy successor to its parent legacy.

It is the deadliest attack in Russia for almost two decades when Islamist insurgencies had marked the first decade of Putins rule. Terrorists had then taken more than 1,000 people, including hundreds of children, hostage in the Beslan school siege. At that time, President Vladimir Putin said; We showed ourselves to be weak. And the weak get beaten.

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The attack

Many people in hospitals were in critical condition and the Governor of the Moscow region said rescuers would continue to search the site for several days.

Some witnesses filmed the gunmen from the upper floors as they walked through the stalls shooting people and sharing the footage on social media. The terrorists used a flammable liquid to set fire to the concert halls premises, where spectators were located the Investigative Committee said and that people died both from gunshot wounds and smoke inhalation after a fire engulfed the 6,000-seater venue. The gunmen appear to have planned the attack carefully, setting fires by an emergency stairwell to herd people toward a killing zone in the middle of the lobby.

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Helicopters were brought in to drop about 160 tonnes of water, but it took 10 hours for the fire to be contained. Investigators said a man who jumped on one of the gunmen as he was shooting at the concert-goers, immobilising him and thus saving the lives of people around him would receive an award.

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Russian MP Alexander Khinshtein said the attackers fled in a white Renault car and were stopped in the Bryansk region, about 340 kilometres away from Moscow. Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) announced 11 people had been arrested, including four directly involved.

Russias interior ministry said they were foreign nationals. Unconfirmed reports have mentioned nationals from Tajikistan. Khinshtein said passports from the country had been found in the car.

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In Moscow, residents stood in long lines in the rain to donate blood for those hospitalised and mourners came to lay flowers outside the concert hall. Memorial posters featuring a single candle replaced some advertising billboards in the capital and major events were cancelled across the country.

IS-KP

ISIS-K emerged in 2014 and 2015 in Afghanistan and Pakistan after its leaders broke away from Al Qaeda and the Taliban. Its fighters declared loyalty to the even more violent and extremist Islamic State, also known as ISIS, which was gaining influence at the time, mounting attacks in Iraq and Syria.

ISK seeks to destabilise, overthrow and supplant existing governments in the historic Khorasan region to create a Caliphate in South and Central Asia, governed by a strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law. In January, it bombed the commemoration ceremony of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in Kerman, Iran causing a high number of fatalities.

With the Moscow attack, the terrorist group seems to be expanding its geographical scope. Russia had in decades past dealt with religiously inspired militancy, including in Chechnya and Dagestan. In more recent times, Russia had intervened to turn the tide in favour of Syrian forces fighting both their political opponents and jihadists.

There were also reports that Chechens and other Russian jihadists had fought against Bashar al-Assads regime during the Syrian civil war. Now that the Syrian front is largely quiet, these militants, under the IS-KP flag, may have decided to take their fight to Russia to avenge their defeat.

The group later released highly graphic footage from the attack. The video, shows one of the gunmen opening fire on several people. New York Times has cited Colin Clarke, a counterterrorism analyst as saying; ISIS-K has been fixated on Russia for the past two years. ISIS-K accuses Moscow of having Muslim blood in its hands, referencing Moscows interventions in Afghanistan, Chechnya and Syria.

In footage on social media, one of the suspects said he was offered money to carry out the attack. I shot people, said the suspect, his hands tied and his hair held by an interrogator. When asked why, he said: For money. The man said he had been promised half a million roubles ($5,400). One was shown answering questions through a Tajik translator.

Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) has previously been reported to have recruited radicalised nationals from Central Asia, including Tajikistan. In a phone call on Sunday, Putin and Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon, noted that security services and relevant agencies of Russia and Tajikistan are working closely in countering terrorism, and this work will be intensified.

Douglas London, a former senior CIA officer who has specialised in counterterrorism and Central Asia said, The Central Asian element of ISIS had always targeted Russia. He added, I dont think there is shock and surprise in Russian intelligence that there was an issue. It just simply wasnt sufficiently high on their agenda.

It is unclear as to why the group chose this moment to strike when Russia had intervened in the Syrian civil in 2015, supporting President Bashar al-Assad against ISIS. Maybe they felt that the terrorist threat emanating from Central Asia had become a blind spot as Russia was focused on Ukraine.

A statement from the White House condemning the attack described the group as a common terrorist enemy that must be defeated everywhere.

President Putins reaction

I express my deep, sincere condolences to all those who lost their loved ones, President Putin said in an address to the nation on Saturday. The whole country and our entire people are grieving with you.

He vowed to punish those behind the barbaric terrorist attack, saying four gunmen trying to flee to Ukraine had been found and detained. In his television address, the Russian president further said, terrorists, murderers, non-humans  have only one unenviable fate: retribution and oblivion.

Russian television showed security services interrogating four bloodied men, who spoke Russian with an accent, on a road in the Western Bryansk region, which borders both Ukraine and Belarus. They tried to escape and were travelling towards Ukraine, where, according to preliminary data, a window was prepared for them on the Ukrainian side to cross the state border, said President Putin.

Sunday was observed as a day of national mourning and he promised, All the perpetrators, organisers and those who ordered this crime will be justly and inevitably punished.

Olga Skabeyeva, a prominent state television host, claimed on Telegram that Ukrainian military intelligence had recruited assailants who would look like ISIS. But this is no ISIS.

President Putin did not name the Islamist terror group during his public statements on the attack, while directly accusing the Ukrainian side of involvement.

Kyiv has strongly denied any connection with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in his evening address on 23 March accusing Putin of trying to shift the blame onto them. What happened yesterday in Moscow is obvious, he said. Putin and the other scum are just trying to blame it on someone else.

US warning

The US Embassy in Russia had warned on 7 March that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow, to include concerts, advising caution. Just three days earlier, President Putin had publicly dismissed a US warning of an imminent attack in Moscow as propaganda designed to scare Russian citizens. Speaking to FSB Chiefs he had called it a provocative statement and outright blackmail  to intimidate and destabilise our society.

The Russian Ambassador to the US Anatoly Antonov told the TASS news agency on Saturday that the US did not pass any specific information through the Russian Embassy in Washington about preparations for the attack. Nothing was passed. No concrete information, nothing was transferred to us, he said.

The US National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said, There was no Ukrainian involvement whatsoever while Russias Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Sunday any statement made by US authorities to vindicate Kyiv until the end of the probe into the attack should be considered as evidence.

Zakharova disregarded the US intelligence reports that IS was behind the attacks. I wish they could have solved the assassination of their own President Kennedy so quickly, she wrote on Telegram. But no, for more than 60 years they have not been able to find out who killed him after all. Or maybe that was ISIS too?

Need to combat terrorism

Terrorist attacks are tragic assaults on ordinary people. Terrorists can keep metamorphosing themselves which includes their organisation and methods whereas their ideology remains. A portion of Al Qaeda which had carried out the 9/11 attacks had become ISIS and then IS-KP.

The attack comes as a reminder of the threat of terrorism posed by groups like IS-KP and Al Qaeda and the expansion of their operations. Just as it took a multinational effort to defeat Al Qaeda and ISIS, a similar endeavour will be needed to destroy IS-KP before it spreads its wings.

This will require the international community to coordinate with the Afghan Taliban, whom IS-KP opposes closely. Afghanistan, Iran and Iraq need to be at the forefront of the fight against the Khorasan faction, as these countries are the most vulnerable to IS-KPs forays. The Central Asian states and Russia should also be on board to contain the threat and neutralise it. The need is for a collective effort. Further, Russias claims of state support for IS-KP need to be investigated after all the organisations need financial and material support.

The Arab countries condemned the attack and declared their solidarity with Russia. Saudi Arabia emphasised the importance of fighting and countering all forms of extremism and terrorism.

In a post on X, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated, Spoke to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Conveyed our deepest condolences on the loss of lives in the horrific terrorist attack in Moscow. He reaffirmed Indias resolution to continue fighting terrorism in all its manifestations.

Conclusion

Terrorism remains one of the most serious threats to global peace and security and requires a unified and resolute response from all nations.

Confronting a terrorist attack of this magnitude naturally reflects the hybrid nature of the ongoing war. The twist is that the terrorists were not from Ukraine but from ISIS a fact which is not being acknowledged by Russia**.** However, the full consequences of the attack are hard to assess.

Israel when confronted by a similar attack about six months ago has responded with overwhelming force in a bid to eliminate Hamas. It is now to be seen how President Putin responds.

A mass information campaign followed by forceful demonstrative actions can be expected. If the responsibility of ISIS is accepted by Russia it may respond by cracking down on Russias Muslim minority communities in the North Caucasus region and beyond.

Terrorists are utterly indiscriminate in what they do and are prepared to kill most horrifically. The world must thus be vigilant and united while eliminating terrorism in all forms. The attack is a deplorable act that must be unequivocally condemned by all nations and individuals who value peace and security.

The author is a retired Major General of the Indian Army. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Until 2023, the World Happiness Report was a publication of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network, a global initiative of the United Nations, and from 2024 onwards, it is a publication of the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford. At first glance, it looks like the work of a geniusa report compiled after in-depth research and collated by the worlds most esteemed institutions.

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However, once you start noticing the details, their inaccuracies and biases inadvertently start jumping at you like a bunch of Bernie Sanders fans squeaking about wealth redistribution at a corporate dinner.

Our first stop on this merry-go-round of analysis is the cultural carnival of the survey questions. Picture this: a questionnaire designed with all the cultural sensitivity of a bull in a china shop, asking respondents if they smiled or laughed yesterday as if happiness were a universal language spoken with a grin. Its as if the report believes the entire world shares the same sense of humour as a dad joke enthusiast at an open mic night. Job security? Income inequality? Access to education and healthcare? Who needs those when you can simply ask if someone had a good laugh yesterday? Speaking from personal experience, I am not sure about yesterday, but I did laugh a lot today, and that was when I looked at the World Happiness Report 2024.

Another flaw that the report indulges in is interpreting aspirations as unhappiness. Individuals from developing countries might be a lot more aspirational or ambitious; it does not necessarily make them unhappy with their lives. In fact, the opposite can still be argued. Someone who draws meaning from their everyday struggle, one who wants to turn their start-up into a billion-dollar venture, might be extremely content with their life, wishing to take it to another level. Imagine hustling day and night, dreaming of a better future, only to be termed depressed by some reports that mistake ambition for anguish and growth for gloom.

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This years World Happiness Report isnt the only one under scrutiny; the entire notion of happiness surveys seems flawed as it effectively ends up conveying nothing. Take the UN report averaging self-reported happiness scores from 2014 to 2016, for example. It claims that the happiest countries on Earth that year were, in order, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Switzerland, Finland, the Netherlands, Canada, New Zealand, and, tied for ninth, Australia and Sweden. Its like trying to rank the worlds best pizza toppings; everyone has their own opinion, and nobody can agree on the supreme winner. Also, imagine claiming that any two countries are exactly equal in happiness.

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In a Pew survey conducted in 2014 across 43 countries, Mexico, Israel, and Venezuela emerged as the unlikely champions, securing the top three spots, while the US made it into the top 10, barely beating Vietnam and Colombia. If that is not confusing enough, here are the countries that scored better than Japan: Argentina, Peru, Malaysia, Pakistan, South Africa, and Nicaragua.

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If any survey ranks Pakistan higher than Japan in happiness, then we might as well start measuring happiness through tarot cards instead of surveys. These surveys mostly rely on subjective self-reporting, overlooking cultural nuances in the process. In Japan, for example, there exists a cultural reluctance to boast about ones good fortune, while in Scandinavia, theres an overwhelming societal expectation to proclaim ones happiness to the world.

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Coming back to the World Happiness Report 2024, India is ranked 126th out of 143 nations. It is not disputable that India is a third-world country with very low per capita income and miles to achieve in alleviating poverty, infant mortality, womens safety issues, and corruption. There is no denying the fact that the law and order situation in India can get a thousand times better, and the ease of doing business needs to improve a lot more. That being said, India securing a lower spot than Libya, Iraq, Palestine, Ukraine, and Pakistan does seem like a bit of a stretch. It is not being argued that an average person in these countries cannot be happy with their lives or that India has achieved the absolute pinnacle of happiness as compared to these countries, but war-torn countries like Libya, Iraq, Ukraine, Palestine, and debt-ridden, terrorism-infested countries like Pakistan faring better than India is bound to raise some eyebrows. Even people under the military dictatorship of Myanmar are apparently happier than in India; the less said about this, the better.

Irans positioning above Tunisia may seem perplexing too, considering the stark contrast in womens rights and personal freedoms between the two nations. While Iranian women continue to face stringent dress codes and limitations on their autonomy, Tunisian women enjoy relatively more liberal rights, including the freedom to marry outside their religion. Meanwhile, the US finds itself nestled among the top-ranking nations, basking in the glow of its American Dream. Yet, beneath the stars and stripes lies a nation grappling with political polarisation, income inequality, and a healthcare system that seems to operate on the principle of survival of the richest.

Canadas ranking higher than the UAE also appears misleading when considering the UAEs rapid economic development, modern infrastructure, and focus on luxury and convenience. Fueled by its oil reserves and strategic investments, the UAE enjoys considerable wealth and prosperity, leading to a high standard of living for many residents. Moreover, the UAEs attraction of skilled expatriates through enticing job opportunities and tax-free incomes likely contributes to heightened overall satisfaction levels among its populace. In contrast, while Canada boasts a high quality of life, social welfare programmes, and scenic landscapes, it contends with challenges such as harsh weather conditions in certain regions, relatively higher taxes, and slower economic growth compared to the UAE. Despite its vast territory and abundant natural resources, Canadas economy may not match the UAEs rapid expansion, impacting factors like job creation and income growth.

These examples further show that measuring happiness across borders might be a futile exercise to begin with. Even within countries, measuring happiness over time might not be completely accurate. China, according to the new World Happiness Report, is less happy today than it was in 1990. So, apparently, as China ascended from a peasant nation to the second-largest economy in the world, with a GDP growth of 500 percent, it became more miserable as a society.

As happiness surveys often rely on self-reported data, they may be influenced by cultural factors, personal biases, and momentary emotions. In contrast, objective measures such as GDP per capita, human development indices, and inequality metrics offer more concrete and quantifiable indicators of a countrys overall well-being. By examining factors like income distribution, access to healthcare and education, and environmental sustainability, these methods provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to citizens quality of life. Additionally, objective measures are less susceptible to fluctuations and can provide policymakers with reliable data to assess long-term trends and formulate effective policies to address societal challenges.

In conclusion, while happiness surveys might sometimes feel as accurate as trying to forecast the weather with a broken umbrella, they do serve a purpose in highlighting the whimsical nature of human contentment. Perhaps, as we navigate the maze of statistics and subjective feelings, we can take solace in the fact that happiness, much like the perfect cup of coffee or the quest for the ultimate meme, is a journey rather than a final destination. So, lets raise a toast to the quirks of happiness surveys, the absurdity of statistical rankings, and the delightful chaos of being human. After all, if laughter is the best medicine, then a good chuckle about happiness rankings might just be the cure for our existential woes.

The writer takes special interest in history, culture and geopolitics. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Apple has unveiled the dates for WWDC, or the Worldwide Developers Conference 2024. At its annual developers conference, Apple is expected to talk about its AI plans, along with the upcoming operating systems like iOS 18, iPadOS 18, visionOS 2, tvOS 18, macOS 15, and watchOS 11

Apple has been making headlines for not disclosing its AI strategy at a time when all other tech giants have been making some major announcements. Image Credit: Apple

Apple has announced that its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will start on June 10, where the tech giant is anticipated to reveal its highly awaited artificial intelligence (AI) strategy.

The Cupertino-based tech giant took to X to disclose the events dates on Tuesday, noting that it will run until June 14. While Apple remained tight-lipped about its agenda, sources familiar with the matter as well as analysts who have been following all recent developments at Apple, suggest a significant focus on AI during the presentation.

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Following the precedent set since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the conference will be conducted free of charge via Apples website and app for developers. Notably, the opening day announcements will occur in person at Apples campus in Cupertino, California.

Apple is also expected to introduce its next major software updates for the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Vision Pro headset, and smartwatch. Notably, the companys new AI strategy is expected to take center stage with the planned iOS 18 upgrade.

Greg Joswiak, Apples marketing executive, hinted at the significance of the event, stating, Its going to be Absolutely Incredible  a clear indication of the focus on AI.

Apples AI strategy is projected to encompass a range of proactive features aimed at enhancing users daily experiences. However, the company does not plan to unveil its own generative AI chatbot. Instead, talks are underway with potential partners such as Alphabet Inc.s Google and OpenAI to provide generative AI services, as reported by Bloomberg News. In China, Apple may be using Baidu to power its AI services.

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The iOS 18 update is expected to mark the most ambitious overhaul of the iPhones software in its history, according to insiders involved in the upgrade process. Additionally, Apple intends to roll out a minor refresh of the Apple Watchs software and the first major update to the operating system powering the Vision Pro headset.

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WWDC 2024 will commence on June 10 with Apples special keynote at Apple Park. The event will include various activities such as the State of the Union, the Apple Design Awards, developer sessions, and more. Attendees can also participate in video sessions and engage with Apple designers and engineers, fostering connections within the worldwide developer community.

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In addition to iOS 18, Apple is set to unveil updates for other operating systems, including iPadOS 18, visionOS 2, tvOS 18, macOS 15, and watchOS 11, at WWDC 2024.
Meta is trying to aggressively recruit AI engineers and is employing various tactics to attract top researchers. Moreover, it is paying massive incentives to retain current employees who are trying to leave for other, rival AI companies

Meta is actively trying to recruit the best of AI talents from across the tech industry. Image Credit: AFP

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has reportedly resorted to personally reaching out to talent at Googles DeepMind, penning personal emails in an effort to lure them to Metas AI projects.

This move underscores the intensifying competition for AI talent, with Meta employing various tactics to attract top researchers.

According to sources familiar with the matter speaking to The Information, Zuckerbergs emails emphasize the significance of AI to Meta and aim to entice DeepMind employees to join Metas ranks. The sources, who requested anonymity, revealed that at least one individual has been headhunted through these personalized letters.

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In addition to Zuckerbergs direct outreach, Meta has implemented other aggressive recruitment strategies in the AI space. These include bypassing traditional interviews and extending job offers directly to promising candidates.

Moreover, Meta has reportedly increased pay incentives for its employees who had expressed interest in joining rival AI companies, it order to retain them

The hyper-competitive nature of the AI talent market has prompted extraordinary measures from companies like Meta. With a limited talent pool, tech giants are engaging in fierce recruitment efforts, as highlighted by a December report from Fortune detailing the cutthroat environment at major machine learning conferences.

Reflecting on the intense demand for AI expertise, Aravind Srinivas, CEO of AI company Perplexity, recounted his experience attempting to recruit a senior researcher from Meta.

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Srinivas shared on the Invest Like the Best podcast that the response he received emphasized the need for substantial resources, such as NVIDIAs coveted H100 GPUs, underscoring the high stakes in the AI race.

To bolster its AI endeavours, Meta is investing heavily in NVIDIAs H100 GPUs, with plans to acquire over 340,000 units. This significant investment underscores Metas commitment to advancing AI capabilities across its platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.

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As Meta competes against rivals like Microsoft and its partner OpenAI, the company is sparing no expense in its pursuit of AI talent and resources, signalling a fierce battle for dominance in the AI landscape.
NASA may be forced to shutdown a one of a kind solar observatory satellite, the Chandra X-ray Observatory because of financial constraints and budget cuts. NASAs new budget outlines a reduction in funding for Chandra, from $68.3 million in 2023 to potentially $5 million by 2029

It seems that NASA may be forced to sacrifice one of its most unique and oldest serving observatory satellites because of a sad but realistic reason that is plaguing the scientific community in most countries.

NASAs Chandra X-ray Observatory, a cornerstone in astronomical research for over two decades, is facing a rather precarious future due to proposed budget constraints, as reported by Space.com.

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In its proposed budget for fiscal year 2025 released on March 11, NASA introduced stringent spending cuts that could jeopardize the continued operation of the observatory.

The budget outlines a significant reduction in funding for Chandra, from $68.3 million in 2023 to just $41.1 million in 2025, and potentially dwindling to as low as $5 million by 2029.

NASAs proposal suggests an orderly drawdown of the Chandra mission to minimal operations, indicating a potential end to its groundbreaking observations of the universe.

The prospect of budget cuts has prompted concern and shock among scientists who rely on Chandra for their research.

Chandra has been instrumental in studying X-rays from celestial objects, providing unique insights into black holes, neutron stars, and exoplanets beyond our galaxy. Its unparalleled sensitivity and imaging capabilities have positioned it as a vital tool for astronomers.

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However, the proposed budget cuts not only threaten Chandra but also impact NASAs future projects in X-ray astronomy. The agencys next-generation X-ray observatory, Lynx, did not secure high-priority development funding, potentially delaying its launch until the mid-2030s.

The repercussions of Chandras potential shutdown extend beyond the scientific community, leaving a significant void in our understanding of the universe. Astrophysicists warn that discontinuing Chandras operations would deal a severe blow to X-ray astronomy in the United States.

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While there remains hope that NASA may reconsider its budget allocations in response to community outcry, the uncertainty surrounding Chandras future underscores the challenges faced by scientific endeavours reliant on government funding.

(With inputs from agencies)
TikToks trouble in the US may turn worse as a prolonged investigation into its handling of data is coming to an end. The US FTC is likely to sue or impose massive fines on TikTok and ByteDance for mishandling childrens data privacy and security

TikTok faces a potential new storm, because of the way it handled children's data in the US. Image Credit: Reuters

It seems that TikTok and ByteDance simply cant catch a break in the US. In the midst of an ongoing battle against a proposed legislation that could potentially lead to its ban in the United States, TikTok now faces the looming threat of action from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

As reported by Politico, the FTC is nearing the conclusion of a lengthy investigation into the popular social media platform, which may culminate in a major lawsuit or substantial fines.

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The focal point of the investigation reportedly revolves around TikToks privacy and security practices, particularly its handling of user data belonging to children.

Politico indicates that the FTC is scrutinizing potential breaches of the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), along with allegations suggesting that the company misrepresented its policies by falsely asserting that individuals in China lacked access to data belonging to US users.

Additionally, TikTok could face penalties for violating the terms outlined in its 2019 settlement with regulators regarding data privacy.

While the outcome of the FTCs investigation remains uncertain, the mounting regulatory pressure poses significant challenges for TikTok as it endeavours to safeguard its foothold in its largest market. Notably, following swift approval in the House, the Senate is deliberating a bill that would compel TikToks parent company, ByteDance, to divest the app or confront an outright prohibition in the US

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The Biden Administration has thrown its support behind this measure, echoing efforts to coerce ByteDance into relinquishing control of TikTok. Furthermore, US intelligence officials have briefed lawmakers on purported national security concerns associated with the app, adding further complexity to TikToks predicament.

(With inputs from agencies)
About 8 million workers may lose their jobs in the UK, and over 60% may see their jobs change drastically, if the Rishi Sunak-led UK government doesnt bring policies to safeguard human jobs

The UK government needs to make some massive policy changes to protect workers from AI. Image Credit: Reuters

The UK may be looking at a severe job crisis soon as more and more employers start considering artificial intelligence (AI) for their businesses.

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has issued a stark warning, estimating that up to 8 million workers in the UK are vulnerable to losing their jobs due to AI, if the policies governing AI and employment stay as they are under current government policies.

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According to a report published by the IPPR, AI is already affecting 11 per cent of tasks performed by UK employees, a figure projected to soar to nearly 60 per cent if companies deepen their integration of the technology.

Particularly at risk are part-time, entry-level, and back-office roles such as customer service, although higher-paying positions will also increasingly feel the impact.

The IPPRs findings underscore the challenges faced by the government as it pins its hopes on AI to address the UKs productivity woes.

While companies aim to enhance efficiency through AI adoption, the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced a substantial 800 million investment in technology and AI to bolster public-sector productivity.

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Carsten Jung, senior economist at IPPR, emphasized the transformative potential of AI, describing it as a game changer for millions. However, Jung warned that without proactive measures from government, employers, and unions, there is a risk of a jobs apocalypse.

The IPPR report emphasizes the critical role of government policy in shaping the impact of AI adoption on the labour market. Modelling various scenarios, researchers found that with appropriate policies, AI could contribute significantly to economic growth without causing job losses.

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Conversely, without intervention, AI adoption could result in the displacement of 8 million jobs in the UK, with no corresponding economic benefits.

A separate study from LinkedIn revealed that the UK lags behind other countries in AI skills, highlighting the urgent need for upskilling initiatives.

Janine Chamberlin, UK country manager for LinkedIn, stressed the importance of investing in skills development to bridge the gap between existing skills and those required in the age of AI.

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The IPPR recommends the development of an industrial AI strategy to facilitate job transitions and ensure the equitable distribution of automation benefits across the economy. Suggestions include fiscal incentives, regulatory changes, and support for green jobs less susceptible to automation.

As AI reshapes the workforce landscape, proactive measures at both organizational and governmental levels are essential to mitigate the potential negative impacts and harness the benefits of AI-driven innovation.

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(With inputs from agencies)
According to Kano Justice Commissioner Haruna Dederi, Frank Geng-Quangrong was found guilty by a local court in Kano state, the economic centre of northern Nigeria. Geng-Quangrong entered a not guilty plea

A government official informed The Associated Press that a Nigerian court found a Chinese national guilty of killing his fiancee on Tuesday and sentenced him to death. If the man is unable to successfully appeal the decision, the government would propose that he be put to death.

According to Kano Justice Commissioner Haruna Dederi, Frank Geng-Quangrong was found guilty by a local court in Kano state, the economic centre of northern Nigeria. Geng-Quangrong entered a not guilty plea.

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This is a signal that whoever is coming to a society should be prepared to comply with the extant laws of that society, Dederi said.

In Nigeria, capital punishments are frequently carried out by people who are not native to the country. In 2022, a Danish man who had killed his wife and daughter was given a hanging sentence.

However, because state governor consent is required, executions are rare. Human rights attorney Inibehe Effiong of Nigeria claims that since 1999, there have only been two execution orders signed.

In September 2022, at a Kano home, Geng-Quangrong was charged with stabbing his lover, Ummukulsum Sani, who is 22 years old. He said, according to local media, that he stabbed her out of self-defense.

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He has three months to file an appeal with the Nigerian Court of Appeal over his punishment.
A 25-year-old man has been declared dead and other is in critical condition after being pulled out of a building that was struck by a Hezbollah rocket in Kiryat Shmonas industrial zone, according to a report

IDF confirmed a barrage of at least 30 rockets from Lebanon at the northern city of Kiryat Shmona. Image Courtesy: @manniefabian

A day after Israeli strikes on the village of Hebbariyeh in southern Lebanon killed seven people, Hezbollah on Wednesday said that it launched dozens of rockets at Israeli town of Kiryet Shmona.

According to a Times of Israel report, citing the Magen David Adom ambulance service, a 25-year-old man has been declared dead after being pulled out of a building in Kiryat Shmonas industrial zone. One person is being treated for injuries after being pulled out of an industrial building, added the report.

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The Fire and Rescue Services says it is working to extinguish a fire at the structure in Kiryat Shmonas industrial zone, which suffered a direct rocket strike.

Reports indicate that the injured person is in serious or critical condition after being pulled from rubble in the workshop.

Another man in his 30s, was rescued unharmed from the damaged building, the report added.

Meanwhile, according to a Times of Israel report, IDF confirmed a barrage of at least 30 rockets from Lebanon at the northern city of Kiryat Shmona.

A barrage of at least 30 rockets was fired from Lebanon at the northern city of Kiryat Shmona, the IDF says.



Footage shows the Iron Dome downing some of the rockets.



Police say officers are handling several sites of rocket impacts in the city, where damage was caused to pic.twitter.com/0XL28JxcE6  Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) March 27, 2024

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Footage circulating online shows the Iron Dome air defence system downing some of the rockets. Police say officers are handling several sites of rocket impacts in the city, where damage was caused to property, added the report.

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On Tuesday, Israeli air strikes near two towns in northeast Lebanon killed three Hezbollah militants, the group posted on Telegram. Israel confirmed those strikes.

The Israeli strikes appeared to be aimed at the Islamist groups emergency and relief centre in the village, the sources said.

Israel and Hezbollah have been trading fire across the border since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in Gaza, in the biggest escalation since a month-long conflict between them in 2006.

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With inputs from agencies
Saad al-Awlaki, a Yemeni national, has garnered the support of the AQAPs religious and military factions. As a unifying figure, he could prove instrumental in revitalising the group

Al-Qaeda's Yemen branch has announced Saad al-Awlaki as its new leader. Source: US Department of Justice

Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), long regarded by Washington as the most dangerous faction of the Al-Qaeda network, has announced Saad al-Awlaki as its new leader. The Yemen branch of the terrorist group had announced earlier this month that their then-leader, Khalid Saeed al-Batarfi, was dead.

Who is al-Awlaki?

Also known as also known as Sad Muhammad Atif, al-Awlaki is a Yemeni national who is currently on the United States wanted list. Washington has announced a $6 million bounty on his head.

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According to a report released by the United Nations in July last year, al-Batarfi and al-Awlaki led conflicting wings in the AQAP. The report also reaffirmed that al-Awlaki enjoyed the support of some Yemeni tribes.

Al-Awlakis Vision for AQAP

As the new leader, al-Awlaki brings to the table his strong ties with influential Yemeni tribes, especially in Shabwa, an AQAP stronghold. His connections could prove instrumental in unifying the group and reinvigorating its operational capabilities.

As part of AQAPs advisory council, al-Awlaki has garnered the support of both the groups religious and military factions, positioning him as a unifying figure. This means that he is capable of mobilising fighters and potentially steering the organisation towards resuming its international terror operations.

He is expected to consolidate the groups ranks and possibly steer it towards attacks in Western countries. He has publicly called for attacks against the US and its allies.

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AQAPs current position

AQAP was formed in 2009 by merging Al-Qaedas Yemeni and Saudi branches. Based in the Southern part of Yemen, AQAP has claimed responsibility for attacks like the one on Charlie Hebdo in France in 2015.

AQAP has recently been more subdued. Internal divisions, financial troubles, and clashes with other Yemeni forces have impeded its operations. However, with al-Awlaki at the helm, the group could see new life breathed into it.

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With inputs from agencies
By SA Commercial Prop News

An aerial view of the prime 84ha greenfields site where Richmond Park in Milnerton, Western Cape will be developed by Atterbury Property.



Richmond Park, a new multi-billion rand mixed-use development launched yesterday, is set to become a prominent landmark in Western Cape on a prime greenfields site in Milnerton adjacent to the N7 highway.

Atterbury Property will be developing the project on 84ha of land as a business park and mixed-use precinct consisting of retail, light industrial, commercial and warehousing properties.

The property has bulk development rights of around 300,000sqm over the next 5-10 years and the developers intend to invest about R5 billion over this period.

This is certainly going to be a mega development. It will be along the lines of the Atterbury initiated Waterfall development in Gauteng, but will focus more on commercial and warehousing due to its location in Cape Towns industrial hub of Milnerton, says Gerrit van den Berg, Atterburys development manager for its Western Cape developments.

The land is owned by the Richmond Park Communal Property Association and has been leased to Atterbury and two community developers.

While Atterbury is the major shareholder, we are undertaking this development in Cape Town in association with local partners Bethel Property and Qubic 3 Dimensional Property. The land on which Richmond Park will be developed is part of a landmark land restitution settlement, adds Van den Berg.

Richard Glass of Bethel Property, explains: About 400 families were forcibly removed from this land in 1972 and resettled in Atlantis and the Cape Flats."

These families today represent around 5 300 people spanning five generations. They finally had the land transferred back to them in December 2014 in the form of a community trust (the Richmond Park Communal Property Association) said Mr Glass.



The association decided to lease the land to the developers, and in exchange received a 25% shareholding in the consortium called the Richmond Park Development Company.

Atterbury is the company behind Gautengs Waterfall City, one of the largest and most expensive mixed-use development in Gauteng. The company is part-owned by capital-growth focused listed property fund Attacq. Historically Atterbury developed assets that Attacq then brought into its investment portfolio.
Argentine President Javier Milei has announced plan to axe 70,000 government employees in the coming months, showcasing his aggressive chainsaw-style approach aimed at drastically downsizing the state, according to a report

Argentine President Javier Milei has announced plan to axe 70,000 government employees in the coming months, showcasing his aggressive chainsaw-style approach aimed at drastically downsizing the state.

According to a Bloomberg report, while addressing a gathering on 26 March, Milei disclosed his plan to halt public works, slash funding to provincial governments, and scrap over 200,000 social welfare programs, branding them as corrupt. These measures constitute a key component of the libertarian leaders strategy to achieve fiscal balance by any means necessary this year, added the report.

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Despite the job cuts representing a mere fraction of Argentinas 3.5 million public sector workforce, Milei is poised to face resistance from influential labor unions.

Moreover, the move carries the risk of denting his high approval ratings, said the report.

A union launched a strike on 26 March, while a government report underscored the substantial wage decline experienced by private sector workers since Milei took office in December.

According to the report, the leader of the state workers union, ATE, promptly declared a nationwide strike on the social media platform X in reaction to Mileis proposals, though details were not provided.

Milei referenced surveys suggesting a rising optimism among Argentinians concerning the economys prospects. Despite austerity measures, a recent gauge indicated a surge in public trust in the government.

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During his speech, Milei also affirmed that peso futures contracts are in line with the central banks 2% monthly crawling peg scheme, dismissing calls for a significant devaluation of the currency as ridiculous.

He said the Argentine central bank is progressing towards achieving net neutral reserves, having started with debt liabilities exceeding available cash by $11.5 billion in December.

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Milei expressed his commitment to intensify economic reforms post the 2025 congressional elections, with over 3,000 reforms in the pipeline.

He also praised the Senates rejection of his emergency decree, seeing it as an opportunity to expose the alleged corruption of politicians he refers to as delinquents.

Milei said that he anticipates a V-shaped economic recovery in the near future.

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With inputs from agencies
While Vladimir Putin insists that Ukraine facilitated the escape of attackers post-Moscow concert hall bloodbath, his Belarusian ally, Alexander Lukashenko is claiming the attackers planned to flee to Belarus

The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) has claimed responsibility for the terror attack at a Moscow concert hall that claimed at least 139 lives. The group has also disseminated graphic footage of the brutal massacre. Contrary to ISIS claim, Russian President Vladimir Putin has insinuated- without concrete evidence- that Ukraine played a role in orchestrating the attack. Putin said that a window had presumably been arranged for the culprits escape into Ukraine. Kyiv has firmly rejected the allegation.

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However, in an unexpected divergence from the Kremlins narrative, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, a staunch ally of Putin, suggested that the perpetrators had initially sought entry into Belarus rather than Ukraine, CNN reported.

Lukashenko voiced concerns over the feasibility of their entry, citing Belaruss immediate bolstering of security measures upon receiving intel minutes after the attack. This rapid response included the deployment of combat-ready units and the establishment of checkpoints, effectively sealing the Belarusian border to the assailants who then allegedly redirected towards the Ukraine-Russia frontier.

The siege on Crocus City Hall in a suburb of Moscow saw assailants indiscriminately firing at civilians before igniting a fire that led to the buildings roof collapsing. In the ensuing chaos, four individuals, identified as Tajik nationals residing in Russia on temporary or lapsed visas, were apprehended in Russias Bryansk region, adjacent to the borders with Ukraine and Belarus, CNN reported.

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Putin, in his initial address following the atrocity, reiterated the allegation that the assailants sought refuge in Ukraine, where preparations for their border crossing had supposedly been made. Despite later acknowledging the attackers as radical Islamists, Putin persisted in implicating Ukraine as the ultimate instigator.

Echoing Putin, Alexander Bortnikov, the head of Russias Federal Security Service (FSB), further accused Ukraine of facilitating militant training in the Middle East. Ukraine has categorically denied these accusations, deeming them absurd and questioning the logic behind the attackers purported escape route through a heavily fortified border area.

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Lukashenkos attempt to showcase Belarus as a dependable ally might have inadvertently weakened Putins assertions against Ukraine. According to the Belarusian news agency Belta, Lukashenko committed to seal off potential escape routes into Belarus at Putins behest, affirming his cooperation during a phone conversation with the Russian leader.

The incident has led to the arrest of 11 individuals linked to the attack, with appearances in Moscow court suggesting severe treatment prior to their arraignment. The suspects face terrorism charges, which could result in life imprisonment, amid widespread circulation of videos depicting their harsh interrogation.
Although Bolsonaro has denied any role in a conspiracy, earlier Brazilian month, in depositions to the police, former army and air force officers said that Bolsonaro had requested them to join plans for a coup. They claimed they wouldnt join

According to a person with knowledge of the situation on Tuesday, Brazilian authorities are looking into why former president Jair Bolsonaro spent two nights in the Hungarian embassy in Brasilia last month, just after his passport was confiscated in connection with an alleged military coup plan.

The source, who requested anonymity, told Reuters that the police report on the investigation will be sent to Justice Alexandre de Moraes of the Supreme Court. Justice de Moraes ordered the investigation into a purported plot for a military takeover following Bolsonaros defeat in October 2022 by leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

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Although Bolsonaro has denied any role in a conspiracy, earlier Brazilian month, in depositions to the police, former army and air force officers said that Bolsonaro had requested them to join plans for a coup. They claimed they wouldnt join.

Based on security camera footage that showed him entering the diplomatic enclave, the New York Times first revealed Bolsonaros visit in the Hungarian embassy between February 12 and 14.

Police had confiscated Bolsonaros passport on February 8 and charged him with attempting to imprison Moraes, pressuring military commanders to join a coup, and altering a draft order to reverse the outcome of the 2022 election.

Moraes has set a deadline of Wednesday for Bolsonaro to explain to the top court the purpose of his stay, court officials said.

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Bolsonaros lawyer, Fabio Wajngarten, said on social media on Monday evening that the ex-president was at the embassy to maintain contact with officials of the friendly country and get updates on the political landscape of both nations.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a nationalist who has been in power for 14 years, is a political ally of the far-right Bolsonaro. The Hungarian embassy in Brasilia did not reply to a Reuters request for comment.

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Since leaving power, Bolsonaro has maintained close relations with Orban, whom he called his brother during a 2022 visit to Budapest. The two met this year during the inauguration of Argentinas right-wing President Javier Milei.

Last year a Brazilian court ruled that Bolsonaro is ineligible for political office until 2030 for spreading electoral misinformation during the 2022 election.

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He is also facing potential criminal charges for fraud related to his COVID-19 vaccination card.
Beijing hopes to accelerate the expansion of the second-biggest economy in the world after FDI declined by 8% in 2023 as a result of investor anxiety over an anti-espionage law, exit restrictions, and raids on consultancies and due diligence businesses

Even though Chinese leaders openly court international investors, many businesses are unsure of when to cross the line due to Xi's growing emphasis on national security Image Courtesy Reuters

At the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with American business leaders. This is part of the governments efforts to win back foreign investors and multinational companies that are looking for assurances over the effects of new rules.

Beijing hopes to accelerate the expansion of the second-biggest economy in the world after FDI declined by 8% in 2023 as a result of investor anxiety over an anti-espionage law, exit restrictions, and raids on consultancies and due diligence businesses.

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Even though Chinese leaders openly court international investors, many businesses are unsure of when to cross the line due to Xis growing emphasis on national security.

Chinas development has gone through all sorts of difficulties and challenges to get to where it is today, Xi said, according to state media.

In the past, (China) did not collapse because of a China collapse theory and it will also not peak now because of a China peak theory, he added.

Stephen Schwarzman, co-founder and CEO of private equity firm Blackstone, Raj Subramaniam, head of American delivery giant FedEx, and Cristiano Amon, the boss of chips manufacturer Qualcomm were part of the around 20-strong all-male U.S. contingent.

The audience with Xi - organised by the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, the U.S.-China Business Council and the Asia Society think tank - lasted around 90 minutes, according to a person with direct knowledge of the matter.

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The source, who declined to be named as they were not authorised to speak to the media, had no immediate comment on what was discussed and the three organisations did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the meeting.

The U.S. and China are gradually resuming engagements after relations between the two economic superpowers sank to their lowest in years due to clashes over trade policies, the future of democratically ruled Taiwan and territorial claims in the South China Sea.

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The gathering took place in the East Hall of the Great Hall of the People, which is reserved for important functions. Attendees sat in a square formation around a large red, orange and green floral installation, a video released by state media showed.

Commerce minister Wang Wentao, top diplomat Wang Yi and the head of Chinas state planner, Zheng Shanjie, sat alongside Xi.

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The audience with Xi comes after Chinese Premier Li Qiang did not hold a meeting with visiting foreign CEOs at the China Development Forum in Beijing on March 24-25. The chance to exchange views with Beijings second-ranking leader was a key element of the summit in previous years.

Wednesdays meeting followed on from a dinner in November with U.S. executives in San Francisco, where Xi received a standing ovation.

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(With agency inputs)
The meeting comes only a few days after Apple CEO Tim Cook and other key executives attended the China Development Forum in Beijing

State media said that Chinese President Xi Jinping met with US business executives on Wednesday in an effort to attract foreign investment and reassure US companies in the face of a slowing economy.

On the morning of March 27, President Xi Jinping met with representatives from the US business community at (Beijings) Great Hall of the People, state broadcaster CCTV said.

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Before the meeting began, Xi Jinping took a group photograph with them, it said.

The attendees of the conference, which the state media said included academic representatives, were not identified.

A meeting between Xi and the heads of US corporate lobby organisations was reportedly planned, according to a story published by The Wall Street Journal last week, which cited sources.

The meeting comes only a few days after Apple CEO Tim Cook and other key executives attended the China Development Forum in Beijing.

I think Chinas really opening up, and Im so happy to be here, the CEO of the tech giant told a reporter from CGTN, according to a video posted on one of the state-run broadcasters social media accounts.

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Chinese officials have struggled for months to kickstart economic growth as they battle a range of headwinds, including a prolonged property-sector crisis, soaring youth unemployment and a global slowdown that is hammering demand for Chinese goods.

Lower growth target

GDP growth rates in China have been trending downwards for years, and Beijing this month set an annual target of around five percent  significantly lower than the breakneck expansion rates that powered the countrys meteoric rise to prosperity.

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The crucial China-US economic relationship has also suffered as the two powers clash on flashpoint issues from technology and trade to human rights as well as over the self-ruled island of Taiwan and the South China Sea.

US firms in China have increasingly complained about what they see as an unfair business environment, with limited protection for intellectual property and preferential treatment afforded to domestic competitors.

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Those fears were compounded last year by a broad crackdown on US consulting firms operating in China.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo warned in August that business in China could become too risky for US firms without changes to the regulatory environment.

China has rebuffed those fears, touting its openness to foreign investment and promising to do more to help them.

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Last November, Xi spoke to US business leaders following a summit with President Joe Biden in San Francisco, promising to build more bridges and pave more roads for people-to-people interactions.
The Commonwealth, a voluntary association of 56 countries led by King Charles, grew out of the British Empire to include 11 Pacific nations and 2.5 billion people worldwide

Flags representing Commonwealth countries fly at the Kigali Convention Centre, the venue hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Kigali, Rwanda. Reuters File

The secretary general of the Commonwealth stated that the main topics of discussion at the summit, which is scheduled for October in the tiny Pacific Island of Samoa, would be climate change and attempts to stay up to date with advancements in artificial intelligence.

The Commonwealth, a voluntary association of 56 countries led by King Charles, grew out of the British Empire to include 11 Pacific nations and 2.5 billion people worldwide.

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This is not a threat about extinction tomorrow, many of them are thinking, it is extinction today, Patricia Scotland said of the climate change risks that make small Pacific nations particularly vulnerable.

If we look at whats happened in countries like Vanuatu and Nauru and all of them, they see this rise in sea level and the rise in temperature as an imminent threat, she said, speaking from the Samoan capital of Apia.

Climate change will be highlighted when Samoa becomes the first tiny island state in the Pacific to host the annual Commonwealth Heads of Government conference.

According to Scotland, the organisation aimed to place climate finance consultants in member countries to increase attempts to raise money to address the effects of climate change.

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The digitalization of the world economy and artificial intelligence are more debate points.

If the small and developing states are left behind, then their opportunity to take advantage of that huge potential increase in development and opportunity is going to be gone, she added.

A Commonwealth spokesman said plans for the Samoa summit factor in the attendance of King Charles, set to give his first speech as the head of the grouping after missing the annual Commonwealth Day event this month to recover from cancer treatment. The Commonwealth celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.
A pylon panel on the left wings engine came off upon takeoff. Such an incident is rare for an Airbus plane in contrast with its rival, Boeing. Still, it has brought concerns over aviation safety in focus

A pylon panel on the left wing's engine of the Airbus plane came off upon takeoff. Source: Reuters

A Delta Airlines flight from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam was cut short over the weekend when a panel behind one of the two engines on an Airbus A330neo jetliner detached during takeoff.

The aircraft, which had crossed into the Montana-North Dakota boundary, was forced to return to Salt Lake City, landing safely three hours later.

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Delta Airlines confirmed the incident, stating the flight returned due to a reported mechanical issue, with all 260 passengers and 13 crew members onboard landing safely.

What happened?

According to the Federal Aviation Administrations safety database, a pylon panel on the left wings engine became detached upon takeoff. Although not a load-bearing part, these panels play a crucial role in maintaining the aircrafts aerodynamic efficiency.

Such an incident is rare for an Airbus flight in contrast with its rival, Boeing.

A reminder of safety concerns

Nevertheless, it has brought concerns over aviation safety in focus.

This is because in recent times, civil aviation aircraft, particularly those of Boeing, have faced multiple incidents that have brought the integrity of manufacturing processes under intense scrutiny.

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In January this year, the door plug of a Boeing 737 Max 9 came off as the plane was climbing. That left a gaping hole on the side of the plane, alarming passengers onboard. Boeing 737 Max planes have previously also been involved in two plane crashes.

Boeings situation has highlighted concerns about the adequacy of safety standards and regulatory oversight. Investigations have revealed a culture where the drive for profitability sometimes overshadowed the importance of safety and quality.

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The Delta Airlines incident is not indicative of systemic issues within Airbus. The cause of the panel coming off remains to be investigated.

With inputs from agencies
Jaishankar described what happened on October 7 a terrorist attack, but he also admitted that any response to the Israeli counteroffensive in Gaza had to take international humanitarian law into consideration

Jaishankar is currently in Malaysia on an official visit; he will later travel to Singapore and the Philippines Image Courtesy ANI

Whatever the merits and wrongs in the entire Israel-Palestine dispute, the fundamental fact remains that the Palestinian people have been denied their rights and their homeland, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated in a forceful declaration on the matter.

Jaishankar described what happened on October 7 a terrorist attack, but he also admitted that any response to the Israeli counteroffensive in Gaza had to take international humanitarian law into consideration.

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While attending a function, Jaishankarwho is now visiting Malaysiainteracted with the Indian community.

How different pulls and pressures can be. On one hand, what happened on October 7 was terrorism. On the other hand, nobody would countenance the death of innocent civilians. Countries may be justified in their own minds in responding, but you cannot have a response thatevery response must take into account something called international humanitarian law, Jaishankar said.

The fact is whatever the rights and wrongs of the issue, there is underlying issue of the rights of the Palestinians and the fact that they have been denied their homeland, he added.

On October 7, Hamas carried out a horrifying terror strike in Israel that left over 1200 people dead and over 250 hostagesmore than 100 of whom are still being held captive.

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Israel responded by launching a fierce counteroffensive in the Gaza Strip that was aimed at the Hamas divisions. But there have also been civilian casualties as a result of the operation. The Gaza Ministry reports that over 32,000 people, including women and children, have died in Gaza.

Notably, PM Modi was among the first world leaders to denounce the horrifying terror strike that Hamas carried out on Israel on October 7.

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But India has also persisted in supporting the so-called two-state solution to the protracted Israel-Palestine issue.

Jaishankar is currently in Malaysia on an official visit; he will later travel to Singapore and the Philippines.

He paid Anwar Ibrahim, the prime minister of Malaysia, a visit earlier in the day and conveyed his enthusiasm for his goal for deepening the relationship between India and Malaysia. Furthermore, he emphasized that this vision will act as a spark for developing a more ambitious agenda to improve relations between the two countries.

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Additionally, he hosted a roundtable discussion with Malaysian CEOs, noting their increasing interest in collaborating with Indian sectors.

A productive round-table meeting with CEOs in Malaysia. Glad to hear about growing interest in partnering with Indian industries. Encouraged them to join in Indias growth story. Discussed geopolitical developments that can provide more opportunities in business interactions, the EAM posted on X.
Honour to call on Prime Minister @anwaribrahim of Malaysia. Conveyed the warm greetings of PM @narendramodi. His vision for stronger India-Malaysia ties, both in traditional and new-age areas, will help us craft a more ambitious agenda for the relationship. Benefitted from his guidance and insights on regional developments, wrote Jaishankar on X

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Wednesday met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and expressed admiration for his vision aimed at fostering stronger ties between India and Malaysia.

Taking to X, Jaishankar said, Honour to call on Prime Minister @anwaribrahim of Malaysia. Conveyed the warm greetings of PM @narendramodi. His vision for stronger India-Malaysia ties, both in traditional and new-age areas, will help us craft a more ambitious agenda for the relationship. Benefitted from his guidance and insights on regional developments.

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Honour to call on Prime Minister @anwaribrahim of Malaysia. Conveyed the warm greetings of PM @narendramodi.



His vision for stronger   ties, both in traditional and new-age areas, will help us craft a more ambitious agenda for the relationship.



Benefitted from his pic.twitter.com/o9BxuvENmc  Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) March 27, 2024

During the meeting, Jaishankar also conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jaishankar, who arrived in Malaysia on Wednesday after concluding his two-nation tour to Singapore and Philippines, began his visit by meeting his Malaysian counterpart Mohamad Haji Hasan.

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The discussions between the two leaders revolved around various aspects of collaboration, including political, economic, defence, digital, startup, consular, and people-to-people linkages.

They also exchanged views on regional dynamics, touching upon key issues in the Indo-Pacific, West Asia, and Ukraine.

Delighted to meet FM @tokmatn9 to begin my visit to Malaysia.



Exchanged views on enhancing collaboration in political, economic, defence, digital, startups, consular and p2p linkages.



Shared perspectives on the region, Indo-Pacific, West Asia and Ukraine.



As we near pic.twitter.com/YIJtU9VWkW  Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) March 27, 2024

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Delighted to meet FM @tokmatn9 to begin my visit to Malaysia. Exchanged views on enhancing collaboration in political, economic, defence, digital, startups, consular and p2p linkages. Shared perspectives on the region, Indo-Pacific, West Asia and Ukraine. As we near completion of a decade of our Enhanced Strategic Partnership, look forward to further strengthening our engagements, said Jaishankar wrote on X.

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Jaishankar is on an official visit to three countries at the invitation of his counterparts, according to an official release from the Ministry of External Affairs.

The visit of the EAM, spanning five days from March 23-27, will focus on enhancing bilateral relations with the three countries and provide an opportunity for engagement on regional issues of mutual concern.

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With inputs from agencies
Early in March, the UN reported that there were reasonable grounds to believe that Hamas, which had infiltrated southern Israel on October 7 and launched a murderous offensive that started the current war, had committed rapes, and that hostages carried to Gaza had also been raped

Soussana is one of about 250 Israeli and foreign hostages seized by Hamas terrorists during the October 7 attack Image Courtesy Reuters

The Israeli military stated on Wednesday that international pressure on Palestinian organization Hamas to release the remaining prisoners is necessary due to an Israeli womans first-hand testimony of sexual assault while in captivity in Gaza.

Early in March, the UN reported that there were reasonable grounds to believe that Hamas, which had infiltrated southern Israel on October 7 and launched a murderous offensive that started the current war, had committed rapes, and that hostages carried to Gaza had also been raped.

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Although NGOs and Israeli officials have also reported evidence of sexual violence during the historic attack led by Hamas, it seems that this is the first time a survivor has come forward in public with Amit Soussanas account, which was published by the New York Times on Tuesday.

Soussana, an Israeli lawyer who was released during a one-week truce in November, told the US newspaper she was abducted from Kfar Aza near the Gaza border and taken to the Hamas-ruled territory, where one of her captors forced her to commit a sexual act on him.

He sat me on the edge of the bath. And I closed my legs. And I resisted. And he kept punching me and put his gun in my face, Soussana told the New York Times.

Then he dragged me to the bedroom.

In a statement early Wednesday, military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said the reported abuse is a wake up call to the world to act, to do everything and pressure Hamas, to free our hostages.

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The non-governmental Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel said on social media platform X that Soussanas heart-wrenching testimony compels the world to act.

The Israeli government and world government must do whatever it takes to bring home the remaining hostages, it said.

Soussana is one of about 250 Israeli and foreign hostages seized by Hamas terrorists during the October 7 attack. Israel believes about 130 remain in the Gaza Strip, including 33 who are presumed dead.

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Hamas, which has long denied its operatives had committed acts of sexual violence, cast doubt over Soussanas account in a response to the New York Times, and said an inquiry was impossible in the current circumstances.

The report noted that her personal account is consistent with what she told two doctors and a social worker less than 24 hours after she was freed, and that the newspaper has agreed not to disclose the specifics.

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Soussana said that during her 55-day captivity, she was held in underground tunnels and a private home, and recounted beatings, threats at gun point and being chained to a bed.

Youre there with him and you know that every moment it can happen again, Soussana said of the man she accuses of assaulting her. Youre completely dependent on him.

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Israeli President Issac Herzog wrote on X that the whole world has a moral duty to stand with Amit  and all the victims  in condemning Hamass brutal terror, and in demanding the immediate return of all the hostages.

The United Nations Security Council, in its first resolution since the start of the Israel-Hamas demanding an immediate ceasefire, also demanded on Monday the release of hostages.

The United States, which had vetoed previous resolutions, abstained, drawing an angry rebuke from Israel.

(With agency inputs)


The Delhi High Court The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued a stern warning against organising protests within the precincts of any courts in the capital. The court was addressing a complaint lodged regarding a protest called by the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) legal cell in the vicinities of courts against the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.



Scheduled for Wednesday across various Delhi courts, this demonstration by the legal cell and AAP political workers has sparked controversy and legal pushback.



The warning came from a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, who expressed concern over the proposed protests at court premises.



"Consequences are very severe for organising a protest in court," Justice Manmohan remarked, emphasising the gravity of the situation.



Justice Manmohan reiterated the Supreme Court's stance on maintaining the sanctity and uninterrupted function of the court, stating, "There will be serious consequences. The law laid down by Supreme Court will be applied. Court cannot be withheld. Court cannot be stopped."



Pointing out the fundamental rights of individuals, the acting Chief Justice affirmed, "You cannot take away someone's fundamental right to approach the court; that is settled law. If someone does it, they will do it at their own peril, and we will take action if required."



The court will hear the matter on March 28.



The complainant, Vaibhav Singh, a practicing lawyer, has called for an immediate cessation of what he terms as an "illegal call for a protest" within the premises of any court.



Vaibhav Singh's complaint extends to a request for the Bar Council of India and the Bar Council of Delhi to investigate the matter for professional misconduct thoroughly.



Additionally, Singh seeks directives from the bar associations of all district courts and high courts to commence disciplinary actions against lawyers and political workers participating in the protest.



He suggests imposing penalties on AAP's Legal Cell for orchestrating what he believes to be an unauthorised demonstration within court boundaries.



According to the complaint, the trend of political parties mobilising their legal arms to strike, protest, or call for boycotts within court vicinities has become increasingly common, sometimes aiming to pressure law enforcement or the judiciary.



Specifically, the complaint highlights a video posted by Sanjiv Nasiar, an advocate and Vice-Chairman of the Bar Council of Delhi, on his X account.



In the video, Nasiar criticises the arrest of CM Arvind Kejriwal as unlawful and alleges it was motivated by the Central government, a claim that the complainant argues is unfounded and damages the reputation of law enforcement agencies and the government.



"That Mr. Sanjiv Nasiar (Advocate) who is also the vice chairman of Bar Council of Delhi had put a video on his twitter handle on 26.03.2024 at about 03:45 p.m. calling the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal as illegal and also gone to the extent of saying that the arrest by Enforcement Directorate is on the behest of Central Government," the complainant said.



The AAP Legal Cell's protest is slated to occur in several key legal locations in Delhi, including the High Court, Patiala House Court, and others, potentially marking a significant confrontation between political activism and legal professional conduct standards.




Chaudhari also said that aerial superiority has shaped the destiny of many nations and determined the outcome of many wars, adding that aerial superiority would play a pivotal role and also serve as a symbol of national strength, a tool for peace and cooperation

Chaudhari also said that aerial superiority has shaped the destiny of many nations and determined the outcome of many wars, adding that aerial superiority would play a pivotal role and also serve as a symbol of national strength Image Courtesy PTI

Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, stated on Wednesday that actions like to Balakot have demonstrated that, with political will, aerospace power can be deployed successfully beyond enemy lines in a scenario of no war, no peace, without spiraling into a full-scale confrontation.

This was stated by the Chief of the Indian Air Force during his inaugural speech on Wednesday at the 15th Jumbo Majumdar International Seminar on Aerospace Power in Future Conflicts in New Delhi.

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Balakot-like operations have shown that, given the political will, aerospace power can be effectively carried out beyond enemy lines, in a no-war, no-peace scenario, under a nuclear overhang without escalating into a full-blown conflict. Ongoing conflicts across the globe have brought out significant lessons for nations in general and air power in particular. Fora such as this are crucial towards developing a better understanding of the nuances of air power application in modern battlespaces, he said.

He also asserted that aerospace power will always remain vital to the conduct of all military operations in the future of warfare.

The future of warfare will always be a complex tapestry woven with evolving technologies, shifting alliances and the ever-present threat of conflict. Within this tapestry, aerospace power will always remain vital to the conduct of all military operations, he said.

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Chaudhari also said that aerial superiority has shaped the destiny of many nations and determined the outcome of many wars, adding that aerial superiority would play a pivotal role and also serve as a symbol of national strength, a tool for peace and cooperation.

Through the annals of human history, the skies have often been regarded as realms of wonder and exploration, where dreams take flight and boundaries dissolve in the vast blue expanse. Yet, beneath this veneer of calmness lies a domain fraught with competition, where the contest for aerial superiority has shaped the destiny of many nations and decided the outcome of many wars. As we navigate these uncharted skies, air power being a key component of national power would undoubtedly play a pivotal role and also serve as a symbol of national strength, a tool for peace and cooperation, he said.

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Future conflicts will be characterised by a blend of simultaneous application of kinetic and non-kinetic forces, high levels of battlespace transparency, multi-domain operations, high degree of precision, enhanced lethality, a compressed sensor-to-shooter cycle and intense media scrutiny. Coupled with that is the convergence of niche technology like AI, big data, additive manufacturing, block chain and quantum communication making existing weapons and inventories redundant. To be able to fight effectively in such an environment, there is a need to reimagine, realign and reform conventional war fighting ways and means, he said.

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He further asserted that as nations increasingly rely on space-based assets for building strategic advantage, militarization and weaponization of space have become an inevitable reality.

Evolution of aerospace power is not merely a matter of technological prowess but also a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of human innovation in the face of emerging threats and challenges. Space has emerged as a critical domain for conduct of military operations, wherein, seamless communication, navigation and surveillance capabilities would enhance survivability of modern military forces. As nations increasingly rely on space-based assets for building strategic advantage, militarization and weaponisation of space has become an inevitable reality, he said.

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Speaking about the next step in the development of air power, The IAF Chief emphasised that the focus should be on man and unmanned teaming.

When we talk of aerospace power in future conflicts, one very important element is the design, development and production of the next generation of fighter aircraft. I am aware that there are many discussions being held on the relevance of manned aircraft in the future. In my opinion, reliance solely on unmanned aircraft is a little farfetched. The next step in development of air power would be man and unmanned teaming. The CATS programme and other such initiatives will go a long way in realizing this capability. Technology like pure stealth, super cruise technology, cross domain integration, advanced long range precision weapons, counter stealth technology, enhanced electronic warfare for full spectrum ops and the capability to deliver a wide array of weapons are some key constituents of fifth and sixth generation aircraft, he said.

(With agency inputs)
The Indian crews forewarning to Maryland authorities, prompted them to close the Francis Scott Key Bridge before it was dramatically struck on Tuesday

US President hailed Indian crew on board the ship that crashed into Baltimore bridge for forewarning Maryland authorities. Reuters File

US President Joe Biden hailed the Indian crew on board the Dali ship that slammed into Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge, leading to its collapse, and highlighted that their warning to the authorities resulted in the closure of the bridge, saving innocent lives.

The Baltimore key bridge collapsed on Tuesday after it was struck by a huge cargo vessel, resulting in workers and few vehicles plunging into Patapsco River.

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Six workers reported missing are now presumed dead. The US Coast Guard called off the search operation saying there is no hope of finding the missing men alive due to the frigid water conditions and the length of time elapsed since the accident.

Two people were earlier rescued by the authorities, with one in critical condition and the other rejecting medical attention.

The crews alert undoubtedly saved lives

Around 22 Indian crew members, all of them unhurt in the accident, reportedly lost control of the ship and warned Maryland transport authorities before the disastrous crash.

Personnel onboard the ship were able to alert the Maryland Department of Transportation that they had lost control of their vessel. As a result, local authorities were able to close the bridge to traffic before the bridge was struck, which undoubtedly saved lives, said Biden during his comments on the accident at the White House.

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Biden said the ongoing investigation confirms that this was a terrible accident. At this time, we have no other indication - no other reason to believe there was any intentional act here."

Federal government to reconstruct the bridge

Biden said the US federal government would bear all costs to reconstruct the collapsed bridge, which was once one of the longest continuous truss bridges in the world post its completion in 1970s.

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Our Administration will be there every step of the way to help the people of Maryland rebuild in the wake of the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. pic.twitter.com/nwpPiP2Qyt  The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 26, 2024

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I told them were going to send all the federal resources they need as we respond to this emergency, and I mean all the federal resources. And were going to rebuild that port together, Biden stated.

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The Baltimore bridge was constructed at $141 million, which is roughly $735 million in todays dollars, as per The New York Times report.

Indian embassy expresses condolences

In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in the US conveyed heartfelt condolences to the victims of the crash and released dedicated hotline numbers for Indians who need assistance.
Exhumed remains from a large rural Kenyan coastal region have shown evidence of strangling and malnutrition. Cult leader Paul Mackenzie is currently facing charges, including murder, after it was alleged that he told his members to starve themselves to death in order to see Jesus

Family members carry a body of victim of a religious cult for burial in Malindi Funeral home in Kilifi, Kenya. AP

On Tuesday, the remains of 429 members of a doomsday cult at the centre of a nationally shocking court case were turned over to their family by Kenyas authorities.

Exhumed remains from a large rural Kenyan coastal region have shown evidence of strangling and malnutrition. Cult leader Paul Mackenzie is currently facing charges, including murder, after it was alleged that he told his members to starve themselves to death in order to see Jesus.

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DNA testing is being used by the authorities to identify deceased people and their relatives. The first bodies were given to family members on Tuesday. At the mortuary in Malindi, families were gathering loved ones for reburial, and emotions were running high. A few cried out, overcome.

Francis Wanje, a father who lost his daughter and seven other family members, pointed at a hearse carrying four bodies.

We lost eight members of our family, Wanje said. We were supposed to get five, but were told that one of the children did not match the DNA.

So now we have been given only four (bodies). So we are still hoping that perhaps in the future, we are going to get the other four.

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In February, Mackenzie and many colleagues faced accusations of torturing and killing 191 children. On April 23, the trial will start. Mackenzies Good News International Ministries is now considered to be a criminal organisation, according to Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki.

Mackenzie was found guilty of running a movie studio and making films without a proper licence, and as a result, she was given a separate one-year prison term.

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Outraged Kenyans have questioned why the government failed to detect any indication of the mass killings much sooner.

According to the Kenya Human Rights Commission, last week, police in the isolated Shakahola region failed to take appropriate action in response to allegations that may have saved lives. Several people whose families had ventured into the woodland region had filed reports at police stations.
In one of the biggest cult-related tragedies in recent memory, the corpses of almost 400 members of the Good News International Church have been dug out from the Shakahola forest in southeast Kenya since April 2023

Relatives react after viewing the exhumed remains of Esther Biriya Masha who was a follower of the Christian cult named Good News International Church, who believed they would go to heaven if they starved themselves to death in Shakahola, as the authorities begin to hand over bodies to family members, at the Star Specialist hospital funeral home in Malindi, Kilifi county, Kenya. Reuters

According to the authorities, grieving family members came sobbing from a hospital mortuary in Kenya on Tuesday after retrieving the bodies of loved ones who had been forced to starve themselves by a doomsday cult leader.

In one of the biggest cult-related tragedies in recent memory, the corpses of almost 400 members of the Good News International Church have been dug out from the Shakahola forest in southeast Kenya since April 2023.

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Paul Mackenzie, the head of the cult, turned himself in to the police in April of last year and is one of 29 people charged with murder. No one has entered a guilty plea. Mackenzie is charged with informing his followers that the world was about to end and that they needed to commit themselves in order to be the first people to enter paradise.

Only 35 bodies have been conclusively identified so far, adding to the anguish of hundreds of families waiting to lay their loved ones to rest.

A small number of bodies were the first to be handed over to families on Tuesday at a hospital mortuary in the town of Malindi. Relatives waited in single file before being let inside. Several of them emerged in floods of tears.

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I feel exhausted by the whole process, said Sylvanus Opodo, who had travelled from western Kenya to recover the body of his brother.

Opodo said the family could not afford appropriate transport for the remains, making an already difficult situation worse.

They asked us to bring a hearse but we have no means to transport the remains of our brother, he said as he waited in the shade of a tree outside the mortuary.

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Some of the remains were wheeled out in body bags and loaded into the backs of vehicles. Reporters and TV camera operators were kept a distance away.

Government officials have said the process of handing over the bodies was taking a long time because of exhumation, post-mortem and identification procedures. DNA testing has been used to identify some badly damaged remains.

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But Roseline Odede, chairperson of the state-funded Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, said the process should be accelerated.

Going at this rate, we are going to be here for 10 years, trying to identify the 390 plus bodies, she told reporters.

I think the government must intentionally commit resources towards this process so that we are able to give closure to families.
Gopal Hamal, mayor of Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city and Aartis father, took to social media platform X seeking help in finding his elder daughter

Aarti Hamal, a follower of Osho meditation, was last seen on Monday (March 25) around 9:30 pm in the vicinity of Ashvem Bridge in the Pernem taluka. X/@GopalHamal7

The 36-year-old daughter of the mayor of Nepals Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city has gone missing in Goa, where she was residing for the past few months.

Aarti Hamal, a follower of Osho meditation, was last seen on Monday (March 25) around 9:30 pm in the vicinity of Ashvem Bridge in the Pernem taluka.

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Aarti, who goes by the name Artusha Hamal Dhyan Leela on social media Facebook, had been associated with the Osho Meditation Centre for the past few months, reports in Nepalese newspapers said.

How did Nepal mayor learn about his daughter going missing?

Gopal Hamal, mayor of Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city and Aartis father, took to social media platform X seeking help in finding his elder daughter.

The mayor said Aartis friend informed him about her missing, saying she had lost contact with Aarti Zorba Vibes Ashwem Breeze.

My elder daughter, Aarti, is an Osho meditator who has been living in Goa for a few months. However, I have received a message from her friend stating that she has lost contact with Aarti Zorba Vibes Ashwem Breeze since yesterday (March 25). I humbly request that those who live in Goa assist in the search for my daughter, Aarti, Gopal Hamals post on X read.

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The mayor of Nepals Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city further informed that his younger daughter Arzoo Hamal and son-in-law were flying to Goa to look for Aarti.

I sincerely request that you contact 9794096014 / 8273538132 / 9389607953 to provide the necessary assistance in the search for my daughter, Gopal Hamal posted on X.

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Aarti was last spotted at a bridge near Siolim

Aartis younger sibling Arzoo Hamal in a post on Facebook said according to some callers, her sister was last spotted at a bridge near Siolim.

We have received more than 500 calls since we left from Nepal to Lucknow. We are still getting calls even post 12:00 am. Some of the people have been very helpful and we are eternally grateful to them. According to some callers she was last spotted at a bridge near Siolim. Few of them believe that she was taken to a hospital from there in an ambulance as she was found unconscious while the others have been saying that she was taken to the police station.

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Our well-wishers who have reached out and are trying to help have been looking in hospitals and police stations in and around that area. But nothing has really been clear so far," Arzoo added.

Search begins for Nepal mayors missing daughter

Goa Police have registered a missing persons complaint. She has been reported missing since March 25. A search team has been constituted to find Aarti.

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Search for Aarti intensified after sources said she could not be located in the early searches carried out across hospitals in the region.

With inputs from agencies
Trump was given an injunction by Judge Juan Merchan not to disparage prospective jurors, prosecutors, court employees, witnesses, or their families in public

Republican presidential candidate and former US president Donald Trump. AP File

On Tuesday, the judge in New York overseeing Donald Trumps trial for allegedly giving hush money to a porn star prior to the election imposed a partial gag order on the former president.

Trump was given an injunction by Judge Juan Merchan not to disparage prospective jurors, prosecutors, court employees, witnesses, or their families in public.

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The action was taken in the hours following the Republican presidential candidates harsh remarks on Truth Social, when he attacked the judge and his daughter.

Merchan, according to the 77-year-old Trump, is a true and certified Trump hater who suffers from a very serious case of Trump Derangement Syndrome.

In other words, he hates me, Trump said. Judge Merchan should recuse himself, he cannot give me a fair trial.

The former Republican president also said Merchans daughter is a senior executive at a Super Liberal Democrat firm.

Merchan is the third judge overseeing a case against Trump to issue a gag order.

Judge Arthur Engoron, who presided over a business fraud case in New York that resulted in a $454 million fine for Trump, also issued a limited gag order.

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So did District Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington, who is overseeing the federal case against Trump on charges of seeking to overturn the 2020 election results.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who brought the hush money case against Trump, had asked Merchan last month to issue a narrowly tailored gag order to protect the integrity of this criminal proceeding.

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Merchan said Trump was free to comment about the judge himself and Bragg but not the other prosecutors in the case.

- Threatening, inflammatory -

Steven Cheung, a Trump spokesman, denounced the gag order.

Judge Merchans unconstitutional gag order prevents President Trump  the leading candidate for President of the United States  from engaging in core political speech, Cheung said in a statement.

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American voters have a fundamental right to hear the uncensored voice of the leading candidate for the highest office in the land, he added.

In his order Tuesday, Merchan noted that Trump had a history of making public statements which were threatening, inflammatory, denigrating.

The uncontested record reflecting the defendants prior extrajudicial statements establishes a sufficient risk to the administration of justice, the judge said.

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Merchan added that there exists no less restrictive means to prevent such risk besides imposing a gag order.

Merchans move comes one day after he set April 15 as the date for the start of the first ever criminal trial of a former president.

Trump faces charges of falsifying business records for payments made by his lawyer Michael Cohen on the eve of the 2016 presidential election to porn star Stormy Daniels to make sure she did not publicize a sexual encounter.

The twice-impeached Trump faces dozens of charges linked to his alleged conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election and also his hoarding of top-secret documents taken from the White House.
Beijing is Islamabads closest regional ally and Pakistan has benefitted from billions of dollars of investment in recent years but, at the same time, has struggled to guarantee the safety of Chinese migrant workers

Dasu has been the site of deadly attacks against Chinese nationals in the past Image Courtesy Agencies

After workers from its biggest ally country China died on its soil, Pakistan on Wednesday beefed up security guarding Chinese engineers working on projects in the countrys northwest.

The security ramp-up comes a day after five Chinese workers were killed in a suicide bombing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as they were travelling between Islamabad and a hydroelectric dam construction site in Dasu.

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Beijing is Islamabads closest regional ally and Pakistan has benefitted from billions of dollars of investment in recent years but, at the same time, has struggled to guarantee the safety of Chinese migrant workers.

A high-ranking official from the provincial interior ministry told AFP that security was stepped up at more than two dozen sites hosting Chinese engineers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Directives have been issued to all law enforcement agencies to enhance security for Chinese nationals and all other foreigners, he said on condition of anonymity.

Instructions have also been given to foreign nationals to restrict their movements.

Meanwhile, Pakistans Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said that security preparedness and procedures will be put under scanner with a special focus on identifying and addressing any gaps".

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China has inked more than two trillion dollars in contracts around the world under its Belt and Road investment scheme, with billions pouring into neighbouring Pakistan and aiding its crumbling economy.

Since 2015, power plants, ports and transport projects have been under construction by joint Pakistani-Chinese teams in remote parts of the South Asian nation.

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However, the cash-strapped nation has continuously failed to guarantee the security of Chinese workers who are frequently targeted by terrorists as they complain that Pakistanis are not getting a fair share of wealth from the huge projects.

With inputs from AFP
A probe into the data breach, conducted jointly by the Interior Ministry, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Military Intelligence, found that the crime took place between 2019 and 2023

Personal data of over 2 million Pakistanis were compromised after they were leaked from the National Database and Registration Authority database, the countrys Federal Investigation Agency has confirmed.

A probe into the data breach, conducted jointly by the Interior Ministry, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Military Intelligence, found that the crime took place between 2019 and 2023.

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According to a report submitted by the investigative agencies, data of 2.7 million Pakistanis was stolen allegedly with the help of Nadra offices of Multan, Peshawar and Karachi.

The stolen data of Pakistani nationals was reportedly moved from Multan to Peshawar before it finally reached Dubai, sources told Geo News.

The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) report also says that the personal information was sold to Argentina and Romania.

It has also recommended authorities take strict action against relevant officials whose negligence led to the breach.

The joint investigation team, headed by FIA Director Cybercrime, was created to investigate the March 2023 cyberattack, in which the personal information of citizens, including military officials, was accessed and stolen.

Later, the JIT submitted its report to then-caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar after the inquiry was completed, reported The News International.

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With inputs from agencies
The leaders are seeking to promote a great public and private global investment plan into the bioeconomy in the Brazilin and Guyanese Amazon, the announcement said, especially as Brazil presides over the G20 for 2024

French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva, Brazilian Indigenous leader of the Kayapo people Raoni Metuktire, Brazilian First Lady Rosangela Janja Da Silva, and Brazilian Yanomami shaman and spokesperson for Yanomami people Davi Kopenawa Yanomami gesture during a meeting at Combu Island, in front of Belem, state of Para, Brazil. AFP

French President Emmanuel Macron and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva launched a billion-euro Amazonian green investment plan on Tuesday, the first day of their visit.

Their visit to Belem, the site of the 2025 UN climate meetings, makes Macron the first French president to visit Brazil in 11 years, seeking a fresh start following spats with former President Jair Bolsonaro over environmental degradation and insults to his wife, Brigitte Macron.

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The investment plan aims to raise 1 billion euros ($1.08 billion) of public and private investment over the next four years, according to a roadmap published by the French presidency ahead of next years COP30 summit.

The leaders are seeking to promote a great public and private global investment plan into the bioeconomy in the Brazilin and Guyanese Amazon, the announcement said, especially as Brazil presides over the G20 for 2024.

France, which has the seventh biggest economy globally, and Brazil, which has the ninth largest, are seen as significant participants in a geopolitical landscape characterised by competition between China and the United States.

Paris views Brasilia as an intermediary between itself and the big developing economies, whose voices Brazil is attempting to enhance through its G20 leadership and membership in the BRICS+ alliance.

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We are living in a Franco-Brazilian moment, the Elysee presidential palace said earlier, highlighting many points of convergence with Lula, particularly on major global issues.

France is an essential, unavoidable actor for Brazilian foreign policy, said the head of Brazilian diplomacy for Europe, Maria Luisa Escorel de Moraes.

Amazon chief to be honored

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Tuesdays announcement proposes the creation of a carbon market, intended to reward countries which invest in natural carbon sinks, such as the Amazon rainforest.

The worlds largest tropical forest plays a key role in the fight against climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide emissions.

Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon halved in 2023 after soaring under Bolsonaro, as Lulas government stepped up environmental policing.

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The agreement also includes support for indigenous people and local Amazon communities, which have an essential role in protecting biodiversity through their traditional knowledge and forest management practices, according to the announcement.

In Belem, Macron awarded tribal chief Raoni Metuktire with the Legion of Honor, the highest French distinction, for his role as an international figure in the fight for the preservation of the Amazon rainforest and the culture of indigenous peoples, according to the French presidency.

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Metuktire left his home in the Amazon more than 30 years ago to travel the world with his warning of the threats posed by the destruction of the rainforest.

A striking figure with his large wooden lip plate and yellow feather headdress, he has taken his message to popes, royals and presidents, with his stature as an environmental campaigner rising with growing awareness of the climate emergency.

Mercosur and Ukraine

France and Brazil are working together to manufacture four conventionally powered submarines, the third of which will be launched on Wednesday by both leaders at the Itaguai naval base, near Rio de Janeiro.

Brasilia could also call on Paris to help it develop nuclear propulsion on a fifth submarine.

Then there are the more sticky topics, such as the long-stalled free trade agreement between the European Union and South Americas Mercosur bloc, which has recently run into fierce resistance from European farmers.

Macron said in January that France opposes the deal because it doesnt make Mercosur farmers and companies abide by the same rules as ours.

While Lula is expected to reiterate his call for the rapid signing of the deal, both Paris and Brasilia have indicated the two-decade old negotiations would not be a major focus of Macrons trip.

The war in Ukraine, which Macron wants to be a key focus of the G20, is another point of contention.

Lula, who has positioned himself as a champion of the global South, has insisted that Kyiv and Moscow share responsibility over the conflict and has refused to take a stand against Russia.
A joint letter signed by the six judges from the Islamabad High Court calls upon the Supreme Judicial Council to convene and address concerns over undue influence on judicial proceedings

In an unprecedented move, six judges from the Islamabad High Court have appealed to the Supreme Judicial Council for intervention regarding alleged interference in the judiciary by Pakistans powerful intelligence agencies.

A joint letter signed by the six judges from the Islamabad High Court calls upon the Supreme Judicial Council to convene and address concerns over undue influence on judicial proceedings.

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The signatories of the letter, dated March 25th, include Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, Justice Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, Justice Babar Sattar, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir, and Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz.

Furthermore, the letter emphasises the importance of adopting a firm stance to safeguard the judiciarys independence through this proposed convention.

The SJC is the highest body authorised to take action against judges of high and supreme courts.

We are writing to seek guidance from the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) with regard to the duty of a judge to report and respond to actions on part of members of the executive, including operatives of intelligence agencies, that seek to interfere with discharge of his/ her official functions and qualify as intimidation, as well as the duty to report any such actions that come to his/her attention in relation to colleagues and/or members of the courts that the High Court supervises, the letter stated, according to PTI.

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It goes on to highlight the interference of the executive and agencies in judicial matters, including the kidnapping and torture of the brother-in-law of a high court judge to put pressure on the judge regarding a case.

We will also note that the code of conduct for judges prescribed by SJC provides no guidance on how judges must react to and or report incidents that are tantamount to intimidation and interfere with judicial independence, it said.

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The judges further said they believe it is imperative to inquire into and determine whether there exists a continuing policy on the part of the executive branch of the state, implemented by intelligence operatives who report to the executive branch, to intimidate judges, under threat of coercion or blackmail, to engineer judicial outcomes in politically consequential matters.

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The development came days after the top court declared the removal of former IHC Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui illegal, directing that he may now be considered a retired judge.

The verdict noted that the SJC proceeded against Justice Siddiqui on the assumption that the truth or falseness of the allegations levelled by the former judge was irrelevant.

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Siddiqui was sacked on October 11, 2018, by the SJC based on a speech he had delivered weeks ago at the Rawalpindi Bar Association in which he accused the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) - the powerful intelligence agency of the country - of influencing the court proceedings and forming benches of choice.

In their letter, the IHC judges supported Justice Siddiquis request to investigate the allegations made by him.

The letter is believed to be unprecedented as it officially highlights the alleged involvement of executive and intelligence agencies in the matters of the judiciary and seeks the support of the SJC, the highest body, to take action against judges and provide guidance on such matters.

With inputs from agencies
Providence Foundation Executive Director Patricia Doyle, whose previous nonprofit was denied a city contract renewal due to a substantial degree of fiscal mismanagement, has been accused of similar patterns of mismanagement. Office of the Mayor

The head of an embattled organization that operates homeless shelters in San Francisco previously led another nonprofit that faced similar financial troubles, raising questions about whether city officials are properly vetting nonprofit service providers.



Patricia Doyle, executive director of the Providence Foundation of San Francisco, was flagged by city officials more than a decade ago after they found the previous nonprofit she ran overspent its contract budgets and billed the city for credit card purchases without supporting documentation. That nonprofit, the Inter-City Family Support and Resource Network, was denied a city contract renewal due to a substantial degree of fiscal mismanagement, according to records obtained by the Chronicle.

Now Doyles Providence Foundation is accused by the city of similar patterns of mismanagement.

San Francisco officials are investigating staff complaints that the Providence Foundation, which runs shelters as well as other housing programs across the city, is violating city labor laws and using hiring practices marred by nepotism. The Controllers Office is also monitoring the organizations finances after the city said it overspent on three separate city contracts by hundreds of thousands of dollars, among other financial and compliance issues.

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Although the Providence Foundation first contracted with the city prior to Doyle becoming executive director in 2019, the nonprofit rapidly expanded under Doyles leadership during the pandemic and was awarded new city contracts, including operating shelter-in-place hotels. San Francisco went from paying the nonprofit about $2 million to $3 million a year before the pandemic to $8 million to $9 million during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 fiscal years, according to city spending records.

Someone at the city should have raised a red flag when they became aware that she (Doyle) was at the Providence Foundation, said David Brown, an accountant who previously worked with Doyle. Shes doing the same things she was doing back then.

Doyle did not return requests for comment. After weeks of trying to reach the nonprofits attorney, Don Sullivan, he responded in an email Tuesday that he was waiting for direction from the nonprofits board and could not comment.

The revelations about Doyles past come amid broader concerns about how San Francisco officials scrutinize the backgrounds of those leading the 600 or so nonprofits that provide critical city services, such as operating shelters and addiction treatment programs. The city, which spends $1.7 billion annually on these contracts, is investigating the leaders of two other nonprofits facing accusations of financial mismanagement.

Members of the Board of Supervisors are questioning why the city continued to contract for years with SF SAFE, whose leader had a history of financial mismanagement and is now accused by the city auditor and nonprofits board of misspending public funds and fraud. The leader of a third nonprofit, the United Council of Human Services, which focuses on the homeless and has lost several contracts with the city over alleged financial improprieties, was previously convicted of stealing public money.



San Francisco supervisors recently passed legislation to create greater oversight and accountability of nonprofit contractors. Supervisor Catherine Stefani, who sponsored the legislation, said in a statement that the past allegation of financial mismanagement against Doyle underscores the urgent need for enhanced vetting and transparency measures in our contracting process.

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Emily Cohen, a spokesperson for the citys homelessness department, did not answer questions regarding the matter, including whether the department was aware of Doyles previous problems. Cohen said in a statement that the situation was under investigation and HSH cannot currently comment.

The city attorneys office and district attorneys office would not say whether they were investigating Doyle or the Providence Foundation.

Doyle founded the Inter-City Family Support and Resource Network in 2002. The organization then contracted with San Franciscos Human Services Agency from 2003 to 2007 to operate a family resource center in the Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood for about $1 million annually. The center offered a food pantry, family support groups, workshops and case management.

But the city declined to renew the nonprofits contract in late 2007 after saying it failed for 18 months to resolve myriad financial issues, according to city records. The organizations nonprofit status was suspended in May 2015 by the California Secretary of State, which said the group failed to submit required paperwork.

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Nearly a year later, in April 2006, Human Services Agency officials first notified Doyle that they had serious concerns about the nonprofits spending of public dollars and requested a meeting with her and her accountant, David Brown. The nonprofit had spent a years worth of funding within six months and failed to pay expenses for the family resource center despite reimbursement from the city, according to an April 2006 letter from the department to Doyle.

We believe that your organization is in a state of fiscal crisis and it is imperative that we mutually ascertain the level of this crisis, the letter read.

A city-ordered March 2007 independent audit noted that Inter-City was provided an additional $200,000 in public funds to pay off debt it accumulated due to overspending. It also found that the agency failed to document employee vacation accruals and billed the city for credit card expenses but failed to record what was purchased.

The Controllers Office reviewed allegations of financial mismanagement at that time, but the department told the Chronicle in February it could not provide the documents because the agency is not required to maintain those types of records for more than five years.

Trent Rhorer, director of the Human Services Agency since 2000, said he did not remember specifics but recalled that the department didnt uncover illegal spending of taxpayer dollars, characterizing the problems as more a lack of proper fiscal controls. His agency declined to renew Inter-Citys contract in December 2007, citing a substantial degree of fiscal mismanagement.

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Dave Curto, then contracts director at the Human Services Agency, told the Chronicle the city had plenty of reasons to terminate the contract earlier, but declined to do so because officials were short of providers in the Bayview. Curto said, Pat is a really good person, she was just financially incompetent.

If the contract had been terminated before it ran its course, Doyle and the nonprofit could potentially have been temporarily suspended or barred from doing business with the city. Inter-City and Doyle were never added to a list of disbarred organizations or executives.

After losing the contract, Inter-City was sued by the nonprofits landlord and ordered by a judge to pay more than $40,000 in overdue rent. The nonprofit and Doyle also faced three additional complaints in small claims court for allegedly failing to pay for grant-writing services and for financial statements prepared by an accountant, records show.

After the problems at Inter-City, the nonprofit dissolved. In 2009, Doyle joined the Providence Foundation as director of operations, according to her LinkedIn account. She was named executive director in 2019, when the nonprofit was already under contract with the citys homeless department.

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The Providence Foundation  the philanthropic arm of Providence Baptist Church, a fixture of Bayview-Hunters Point for more than six decades  receives millions of dollars annually from the citys homelessness department to operate a homeless shelter with a navigation center as well as a storage facility for homeless individuals, a housing subsidy program and the Oasis Family Shelter, a 59-room emergency shelter for families at 900 Franklin St.

Documents obtained by the Chronicle through public records requests indicate that the nonprofit has struggled for years to stay in compliance with the citys nonprofit contracting requirements, especially those involving fiscal record-keeping.

A July 2023 monitoring report from the Controllers Office found that the nonprofit inappropriately invoiced the city for a toll evasion charge, as well as sugar-sweetened beverages, and failed to submit receipts for multiple other expenses billed to the city. It also stated that, in some cases, the agency recorded an employee as having worked but failed to record the employees hours on timesheets provided to the city.

The citys Labor Standards and Enforcement division is now investigating complaints that Providence deprived its staff of paid breaks and holidays and failed to pay them accurately for time worked.

An independent audit, ordered by the city and completed in late January, found no evidence that the nonprofit engaged in intentional wage theft. The auditor instead blamed unpaid breaks and holidays on technical glitches and an ambiguous employee handbook.

Joshay Jetton, a former Providence employee, said he was fired in November 2023 because of a petition that was circulated demanding that employees be paid for holidays. Jetton said he was wrongly blamed for creating the petition.

Joshay Jetton submitted a labor violation complaint to the city that started an investigation into the Providence Foundation, a nonprofit shelter operator contracted with the city. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle

After being fired, he filed a report with the Labor Standards and Enforcement division for personnel violations. Kenisha Roach, Providences director of operations, sought a restraining order against him, accusing Jetton of threatening her on social media. A Superior Court judge denied Roachs request, citing a lack of convincing evidence, according to court records reviewed by the Chronicle.

Theyre messing with our livelihoods, Jetton said. I tried to do everything the right way, and they retaliated against me.

Providence staff members have filed complaints with the homelessness department alleging that Roach recorded confidential meetings at the Oasis Family Shelter, while hiring and giving preferential treatment to family members and friends.

Roach told a Chronicle reporter that she could not comment, citing a Providence policy that prohibits employees from speaking to the media.

According to city records, the homelessness department ordered Providence to remove video and audio recording equipment inside meeting rooms at the Oasis Family Shelter but received subsequent reports that the nonprofit failed to do so. HSH sent a corrective action letter to the agency in December demanding again that it disconnect such devices and hold a listening session for shelter guests to air their grievances.

Oasis clients and staff members told the Chronicle that the session had not taken place and that the cameras were still up as of the end of February.

I was very committed to my job  but I would never go back there, said Sharmagne Williams, a former Providence employee for five years. The job is too messy.

The question now is whether the city should have taken different actions once Doyle began running the Providence Foundation.



John Pelissero, director of government ethics at Santa Clara Universitys Markkula Center for Applied Ethics, said city officials have a responsibility to properly vet nonprofit leaders to ensure that taxpayer dollars arent going to be squandered.

They need to make sure up front that theyre starting with an individual and organization that are trustworthy and have a record of being effective, Pelissero said. He said officials should specifically review other nonprofits that an executive director may have been associated with and contact public agencies they contracted with.

You wouldnt hire someone without finding out whether they  left their previous position on good terms, he said.

The vetting process for nonprofit contractors varies across city departments, but all are required to ensure an agency is not blocked from receiving funding at the local or federal level, that theyre registered as a business with the city, and that theyre in good standing with the California Attorney General Registry of Charitable Trusts.

The homelessness departments evaluation process includes a review of the nonprofits relevant experience and required certifications, proposed budgets, staffing levels and references submitted by the organization.

Rhorer, the city Human Services Agency director, said he was never asked by the homelessness department about the financial issues at Inter-City after Doyle became the head of the Providence Foundation. I think youd be asking a lot from a single city department to understand every contractual agreement with every organization and staff of those organizations, he said.

Its also jumping to the conclusion that Ms. Doyle is the reason that these organizations are financially mismanaged, Rhorer added. All these organizations are supposed to have a board of directors and financial officers who oversee this.
Jacob Zuma, the former president of South Africa, left the African National Congress (ANC) in December and is currently the leader of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, sometimes known as the MK Party. Zuma led the country from 2009 until his removal in 2018 due to extensive corruption charges

The ruling partys request that a competing opposition party be deregistered and barred from running in the next election was rejected by a South African court on Tuesday.

The ruling African National Congress partys criticism of the Independent Electoral Commissions handling of the uMkhonto weSizwe Partys registration was found to be without merit by the Electoral Court, which also stated that the party ought to have contacted the Electoral Commission prior to initiating legal proceedings.

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Jacob Zuma, the former president of South Africa, left the African National Congress (ANC) in December and is currently the leader of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, sometimes known as the MK Party. Zuma led the country from 2009 until his removal in 2018 due to extensive corruption charges.

His popularity has contributed to MK Partys emergence as a potentially important candidate in the next polls, particularly in his native province of KwaZulu-Natal, which is anticipated to be a major battleground in this years elections.

The party has the name of the ANCs previous military branch, which was dissolved in the wake of apartheids racial segregation laws and white minority rule. The ANC will file a new lawsuit against Zumas party on Wednesday, arguing that it has no legal authority to use the name and trademark of the now-defunct group.

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South Africas 29 May elections are expected to be highly contested with the ANC, once led by anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela, under pressure to remain in power following declining support in successive elections as the country faces stagnant economic growth, high levels of poverty among its Black majority, and an unemployment rate of over 32%

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According to recent polls, the ANC may dip below 50% of the national vote for the first since it came into power in 1994 when Mandela became the countrys first democratically-elected leader.
Only two countries in Asia, Taiwan and Nepal, recognise gay and lesbian marriages. While Thailand enjoys the reputation of being LGBTQ-friendly, activists in the kingdom have struggled for decades against conservative attitudes and values

Thailand has become the first Southeast Asian country to recognise same-sex marriages after a landmark bill on LGBTQ marriage equality was passed in the Parliament on Thursday.

The bill sailed through on 399 to 10 votes in the lower house, although it still needs approval by the Senate before it is endorsed by the king, and then published in the Royal Gazette.

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Today society has proved to us that they care about LGBT rights, Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, an MP with the progressive Move Forward Party which has pushed for LGBTQ+ rights, told AFP.

Only two countries in Asia, Taiwan and Nepal, recognise gay and lesbian marriages. While Thailand enjoys the reputation of being LGBTQ-friendly, activists in the kingdom have struggled for decades against conservative attitudes and values.

If and when the bill becomes law, references like men, women, husband and wife in the marriage law will be replaced with gender-neutral terms.

It also means LGBTQ+ couples will be able to enjoy inheritance and adoption rights in the kingdom for the first time.

Its a huge step for our country  it is the first in Southeast Asia, Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn, a spokesperson with activist group Fortify Rights said.

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The LGBTQ community in Thailand is backed by the countrys prime minister, who made the policy a signature issue and told reporters last year that the change would strengthen family structures.

While Thailand has a reputation for tolerance, much of the Buddhist-majority country remains conservative and the LGBTQ community, while highly visible, still faces barriers and discrimination.

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With inputs from AFP
Satyam Surana said that just 12 hours before the voting, a very well-planned campaign was launched against him, somehow linking him with the Bharatiya Janata Party and calling him a fascist, to boycott him and his campaign

Satyam Surana, the Indian student who came into limelight for retrieving the tricolour from the ground amid an attack at the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom by extremist elements last year, has alleged hate and smear campaigns targeting him during this years student union elections at the London School of Economics.

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Surana said that those who targeted me cant digest Indias success under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hence spread false and malicious propaganda.

Pune-born Surana, who also practiced at the Bombay High Court for some months, is pursuing an LLM at the London School of Economics, and is slated to complete his course later this year.

#WATCH | An Indian Student at the London School of Economics, Satyam Surana who came to the limelight when he picked up the tricolour from the road, defying the attack at the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom by extremist elements last year, now alleges hate campaigns pic.twitter.com/aXsVC2PIWD  ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

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Surana said that just 12 hours before the voting, a very well-planned campaign was launched against him, somehow linking him with the Bharatiya Janata Party and calling him a fascist, to boycott him and his campaign.

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In an interview to ANI news agency, he said, From March 14-15, we noticed that my posters were being ripped off, torn. We complained to the authorities. After we replaced our posters, on March 16, we saw that some posters were defaced. There were crosses on my face, it was written anyone but Satyam. I was cancelled out.

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On March 17 afternoon, there were messages in all groups of LSE. Indian groups, law school groups. The messages claimed, This Satyam Surana is a BJP supporter, he is a fascist person, an Islamophobe, transphobe. The messages were so seditious and contentious of the Indian government and the current establishment, he added.

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Satyam alleged that the radical elements also screenshotted his posts on social media handle X, where he had merely praised the BJP government, but his posts were used with a malicious agenda to call him a fascist.

He also said that his manifesto had no political points, but merely contained the genuine issues on campus. Even though he initially got overwhelming support, this hate campaign derailed his chances.

#WATCH | An Indian Student at the London School of Economics, Satyam Surana says, "The campaigning week, I, along with my campaigning team, went around the entire campus. We made it a point that we need to reach out to as many students as possible in all the different pic.twitter.com/INdcYXlnfb  ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

With my entire team, I went through the entire campus. We were reaching out across departments and explaining our policies. I had a very well-written and well-drafted manifesto, which was not at all political. It said how things need improvement at LSE, how there is a need for a grievance redressal portal, having subsidised food on campus. We were getting support and people were saying that they would vote for me, Satyam said.

But, out of the three people, it was only me who was targeted randomly. When these messages started coming, my entire team was shocked, we were in a dilemma, and the entire moral conscience of the team was shattered, he added.

Recalling the episode from the Indian High Commission last year, Satyam said, Somewhere around early October, I was in the news because I picked up the national flag outside the Indian High Commission among the Khalistani protestors. I was blessed to receive media coverage. I was interviewed by national media channels.

He further said that he was targeted for calling Khalistanis as terrorists in one of his posts.

See, this is my country. I will always be an advocate for my country. How is Indian politics relevant to the student union elections in the UK? My views and endorsements of my government are entirely my opinion, Satyam added.

With inputs from agencies
Chokri Belaids killing shook the country and triggered enormous and violent riots during an already unstable period, just after the Arab Spring in 2011, when protests erupted first in Tunisia and then throughout the region, deposing many long-standing autocrats

People light candles to mourn the second anniversary of the assassination of Tunisian opposition leader Chokri Belaid, at Avenue Habib Bourguiba in Tunis. Reuters File

A Tunisian court condemned four individuals to death and two to life in prison on Wednesday for their roles in the murder of renowned political leader Chokri Belaid 11 years ago, the countrys first political assassination in decades.

Belaid, a leftist politician, has been a harsh opponent of the Islamist Ennahda party, alleging that it turned a blind eye to extreme violence against secularists. On February 6, 2013, he was shot and killed by gunmen in his automobile.

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Belaids killing shook the country and triggered enormous and violent riots during an already unstable period, just after the Arab Spring in 2011, when protests erupted first in Tunisia and then throughout the region, deposing many long-standing autocrats.

Near Tunis court, dozens of Belaid supporters gathered since Tuesday night, raising slogans demanding justice.

They chanted Chokri is always alive and we are loyal to the blood of the martyrs.

While Belaid had only a modest political following, his criticism of Ennahda policies spoke for many Tunisians who fear religious radicals are bent on snuffing out freedoms won in the first of the revolts that rippled through the Arab world.

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Months after Belaids assassination, Mohamed Brahmi another leftist was shot dead by gunmen also, and mass protests and political pressure forced the Islamist-led government to step down at the time.

Those involved in the assassination of Belaid and Brahmi belonged to the jihadist Ansar al-Sharia, an organization classified as a terrorist group by the government in August 2013.

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Belaids family and secularist politicians accused Ennahda Islamist partys leaders of being behind the assassination when they were leading the government.

Ennahda deny strongly any connection to the assassination.

The details concluded by the judicial circles clearly show evidence of the innocence of the Ennahda, Ennahda said on Wednesday in a statement.

It added that this verdict should restore respect to those who have been affected by false political accusations, especially the leader of Ennahda Rached Ghannouchi.

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Ennahda called for opening a new page of major reconciliations and ending strife, exclusion and hatred.
Assanges supporters say he is a journalist protected by the First Amendment who exposed US military wrongdoing in Iraq and Afghanistan that was in the public interest

Stella Assange, wife of Julian Assange, speaks besides a poster of Julian Assange at the Royal Courts of Justice in London. AP File

Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, won a partial victory in his protracted legal battle over the sites publication of classified American documents when a British court decided on Tuesday that he cannot be extradited to the US on espionage charges unless US authorities guarantee he wont receive the death penalty.

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If US officials dont provide Assange with more guarantees about his fate within the next three weeks, two justices on the High Court have said they will allow him to file a fresh appeal. The decision means that the lengthy legal battle, which has lasted for over ten years, will go on, and Assange will be incarcerated for the last five years at the high-security Belmarsh Prison in London.

Judges Victoria Sharp and Jeremy Johnson said the US must guarantee that Assange, who is Australian, is afforded the same First Amendment protections as a United States citizen, and that the death penalty is not imposed.

The judges said that if the US files new assurances, we will give the parties an opportunity to make further submissions before we make a final decision on the application for leave to appeal. The judges said a hearing will be held May 20 if the US makes those submissions.

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The US Justice Department declined to comment Tuesday.

Assanges supporters say he is a journalist protected by the First Amendment who exposed US military wrongdoing in Iraq and Afghanistan that was in the public interest.

Assanges wife Stella Assange said the WikiLeaks founder is being persecuted because he exposed the true cost of war in human lives.

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The Biden administration should not issue assurances. They should drop this shameful case, which should never have been brought, she said outside the High Court in London.

The decision comes after a two-day High Court hearing in February, during which Edward Fitzgerald, Assanges attorney, said that American authorities were attempting to punish him for WikiLeaks exposure of criminality on the part of the US government on an unprecedented scale, which included deaths and torture.

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Assanges actions, according to the US government, went beyond journalism when he solicited, stole, and published confidential government data without authorization, putting many individuals in risk, including Afghans and Iraqis who had aided US soldiers.

Six of Assanges nine grounds for appeal were denied by the judges, including the claim that his prosecution is politically motivated. They said that while Assange acted out of political conviction  it does not follow however that the request for his extradition is made on account of his political views.

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The judges also said Assange could not appeal based on allegations, made by his lawyers, that the CIA developed plans to kidnap or kill Assange during the years he spent holed up in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, to prevent him from trying to flee.

The judges said plainly, these are allegations of the utmost seriousness, but concluded they had no bearing on the extradition request.

Extradition would result in him being lawfully in the custody of the United States authorities, and the reasons (if they can be called that) for rendition or kidnap or assassination then fall away, the ruling said.

They accepted three grounds or appeal: the threat to Assanges freedom of speech, Assanges claim that he faces disadvantage because he is not a US citizen, and the risk he could receive the death penalty.

US authorities have promised Assange would not receive capital punishment, but the judges said that nothing in the existing assurance explicitly prevents the imposition of the death penalty.

Jennifer Robinson, one of Assanges lawyers, said that even if we receive the assurances, were not confident we can rely on them.

Assange, 52, a computer expert, has been indicted in the US on charges over Wikileaks publication in 2010 of hundreds of thousands of classified documents.

US prosecutors say he conspired with US 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.

Assange faces 17 counts under the Espionage Act and one charge of computer misuse. If convicted, his lawyers say he could receive a prison term of up to 175 years, though American authorities have said any sentence is likely to be much lower.

Assanges wife and supporters say his physical and mental health have suffered during more than a decade of legal battles and confinement.

My concerns about the precarious mental health of Julian Assange and his unfitness to be extradited, as well as the potential for him to receive a wholly disproportionate sentence in the United States, have not been assuaged by the court, said Alice Jill Edwards, the United Nations special rapporteur on torture, an independent expert for the world body.

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 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.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba will embark on a two-day visit to India during which he will discuss bilateral ties as well as cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest

Kuleba also highlighted the recent conversation between PM Narendra Modi and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, during which the two leaders discussed bilateral cooperation, trade and the upcoming Global Peace Summit Image Courtesy AFP

Dmytro Kuleba, the Ukrainian foreign minister, stated on Wednesday that Kyiv sees New Delhi as a important global partner with a powerful international voice ahead of his visit to India.

The FM of Ukraine expressed confidence that his visit will strengthen relations between India and Ukraine.

Addressing an online briefing ahead of the visit on Wednesday, Kuleba said, I have already announced I would be visiting New Delhi on the invitation of my New Delhi counterpart, S Jaishankar. This would be my first visit to India and the first visit by a Ukrainian Foreign Minister to the country in seven years. The aim is to strengthen India-Ukraine relationship.

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Kuleba also highlighted the recent conversation between PM Narendra Modi and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, during which the two leaders discussed bilateral cooperation, trade and the upcoming Global Peace Summit.

My visit will help put the agreements into action and further develop our ties. Ukraine sees India as an important global power with a powerful international voice. We are confident that close cooperation will benefit both our nations. During my visit, a number of talks are planned including with the Foreign Ministers, as well as a session of the Ukraine-India inter-governmental commission, he said.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba will embark on a two-day visit to India during which he will discuss bilateral ties as well as cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

He will arrive in India on Thursday. He is visiting India at the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

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During the briefing, Kuleba further said that another important issue that will be discussed during the visit is air defence.

The more important issueor the most important issue, would be air defence. Russia escalated its air terror against Ukraine. It has launched 190 missiles of various types against Ukraine, 400 Shahed drones and 700 guided bombs in just one week, the Ukrainian FM said.

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He added, These strikes targeted energy facilities including critical infrastructure and civilians resulting in significant casualties and damages as well as power outages in entire cities. Ukraine urgently requires more air defence and interceptors, particularly patriots and other systems capable of intercepting ballistic missiles.

The Ukrainian FM also said that Kyiv would welcome New Delhis role in the reconstruction of Ukraine.

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India is welcome to cooperate, engage with Ukraine on economic projects now and of course engage with India on re-construction of Ukraine, FM Kuleba said, in response to a question.

During his visit, Foreign Minister Kuleba will have a number of engagements, including official meetings with the External Affairs Minister and Deputy NSA to discuss matters pertaining to the bilateral partnership and cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Kuleba is also expected to interact with the business community, the Ministry of External Affairs press release said.

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The visit comes days after a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

During their conversation on March 20, the two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen India-Ukraine partnership in various spheres.

While discussing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, PM Modi reiterated Indias people-centric approach and called for dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward.

He highlighted that India supports all efforts for an early and peaceful resolution of all issues between the parties. He added that India would continue to do everything within its means to support a peaceful solution.

President Zelenskyy appreciated Indias continued humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine.PM Modi also had a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 20 and congratulated him on his re-election.

While discussing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, PM Modi reiterated Indias consistent position in favour of dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward.

(With agency inputs)
Before hundreds of thousands of Rohingya were forced into neighboring Bangladesh during a crackdown that is currently the subject of a UN genocide probe, Facebook has long been accused of aiding in the dissemination of massive volumes of hate speech against the group

The connections between the pages were seen in various ways: they often shared creators, administrators, and editors, and regularly posted material using the same IP addresses used by the Myanmar military Image Courtesy AFP

Prior to its dramatic 2017 crackdown against the predominantly Muslim minority, the Rohingya, dozens of seemingly unconnected Facebook sites were used by Myanmars military to spread hate speech, according to a UN investigation conducted on Wednesday.

Before hundreds of thousands of Rohingya were forced into neighboring Bangladesh during a crackdown that is currently the subject of a UN genocide probe, Facebook has long been accused of aiding in the dissemination of massive volumes of hate speech against the group.

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The Rohingya refugees filed a $150 billion lawsuit against Facebook in late 2021, claiming the social media platform was unable to stop hate speech against them.

According to the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) of the United Nations, there is now proof that the hate speech campaign was clandestinely planned by the military in Myanmar.

The investigators stated in a new report that the military had spread material designed to instill fear and hatred of the Rohingya minority in a systematic and coordinated way.

It accomplished this by creating a clandestine network of pages on a social media site with the potential to reach an audience of millions.

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The IIMM was established by the UN Human Rights Council in 2018 to collect evidence of the most serious international crimes and prepare files for criminal prosecution.

Its new analysis looked at content posted on 43 Facebook pages between July and December 2017.

That report found that seemingly unrelated pages, most of them with no outward affiliation to the military and including some devoted to celebrity news and popular culture, formed an interconnected network  the Military Network  on Facebook.

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The report identified 10,485 items with hate speech on the pages, and which Facebook removed from its platform in August 2018.

The investigators had identified hate speech content on six pages that were removed for being connected to 20 individuals and organisations banned by Facebook for human rights violations. All but one of which was overtly associated with the military.

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The investigators also examined 37 other pages with no outward affiliation to the military, taken down due to so-called inauthentic behaviour, detecting hate speech content on 30 of those pages.

The hate speech content often played upon prevalent discriminatory and derogatory narratives concerning the Rohinguya, it said. These ranged from the narrative that the Rohingya pose an existential threat to Myanmar through violence, terrorism or Islamisation.

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Some of the hate speech also played to the narrative that they pose a threat to Burmese racial purity through their alleged rampant breeding.

The connections between the pages were seen in various ways: they often shared creators, administrators, and editors, and regularly posted material using the same IP addresses used by the Myanmar military.

Identical material was often posted on multiple pages in this network, sometimes within minutes, the IIMM said.

The investigators highlighted that the militarys hate speech campaign was ongoing at the very time that many Rohingya villages were burned and while thousands of Rohingya men, women and children were beaten, sexually assaulted and/or killed.

And, they pointed out, it had continued as hundreds of thousands of Rohingya were forced to flee from their homes.

Rather than taking all steps to prevent the violence and protect its people, the Myanmar military conducted a social media campaign that excused and promoted violence against the Rohingya minority.

(With agency inputs)
In addition to pushing portions of the 49 million people in Darfur into starvation, the conflict has resulted in the worst displacement catastrophe in history and has sparked waves of sexual violence and ethnically motivated massacres in the western half of the country

A man walks while smoke rises above buildings after aerial bombardment, during clashes between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the army in Khartoum North, Sudan. Reuters File

US Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello stated on Tuesday that Washington is looking towards April 18 for a potential restart of peace negotiations on Sudan in Saudi Arabia, as Washington seeks a settlement to the conflict that has resulted in millions of people being displaced and the greatest humanitarian disaster in history.

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According to Perriello, Washington has made it plain that all partiesincluding the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, the African Union, and the regional East African grouping IGADmust be included in any peace negotiations with the warring parties in Saudi Arabia.

Perriello stated that it would be a reasonable time for discussions to continue following the holy month of Ramzan and a donor meeting in Paris scheduled for April 15. However, the negotiations may or may not begin around April 18, and it was uncertain whether the opposing parties would agree.

Id like the talks to start tomorrow, but I think that realistically were looking at after Ramzan. But I think in the meantime, we want to use that period between now and the start of talks to be exploring every angle we can that its teed up for success, Perriello said.

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That would be a good timeline to do it. But its not firm.

One of the armys top commanders, General Yasir al-Atta, declared on Sunday that there will be no talks or ceasefire with the RSF.

Heavy violence broke out between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in mid-April of last year, following long-simmering tensions.

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Last year, in an attempt to bring about a truce, Saudi Arabia and the US held fruitless negotiations in Jeddah.

In addition to pushing portions of the 49 million people in Darfur into starvation, the conflict has resulted in the worst displacement catastrophe in history and has sparked waves of sexual violence and ethnically motivated massacres in the western half of the country.

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Perriello said that the United Arab Emirates - which has been accused of supplying the RSF with military support, a charge the UAE denies - and others in the region are aware the situation is quickly hurtling out of control and that the RSF is not in a position right now where its marching to either military or diplomatic victory.
The six construction workers, a majority of them from Latin American countries, were fixing potholes at the centre when the catastrophic collapse of Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge occurred

Onlookers watch in the distance the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed after being hit by the container ship Dali in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. AFP File

The US Coast Guard on Wednesday said they are giving up on the hope of rescuing the six workers missing after Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed and called off the search operation after approximately 18 hours.

Officials said the workers who are now declared presumably dead couldnt have survived the freezing water temperatures and sheer 185-feet fall from the bridge.

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Maryland Governor Wes Moore earlier said that hes spent time with the families of victims. The strength of these families is absolutely remarkable, Moore stated at a press conference.

Heres what is known about the six missing victims

1. The construction workers, employed by Baltimore-based Brawner Builders were fixing potholes at the centre span of the bridge when the crash happened, Jeffrey Pritzker, Executive Vice President of Brawner Builders said.

This was so completely unforeseen, Pritzker added. We dont know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers," Pritzker further said.

2. The men are from Latin American countries such as El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, and were living in Baltimore countys Dundalk and Highlandtown, according to The Baltimore Banner report.

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Two of the six workers were from Guatemala, the countrys Foreign Affairs confirmed on Tuesday. The ministry said they were members of a team assigned to repairing the asphalt on the bridge at the time of the accident".

One of the missing workers from El Salvador was identified as Miguel Luna by the nonprofit organization CASA. He is a husband, a father of three, and has called Maryland his home for over 19 years, CASA executive director Gustavo Torres said in a statement.

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So far, State and federal officials have not officially released information about the identities of any of the six missing workers.

3. The six men were in their 30s and 40s and had spouses and children. They [were] hard-working, humble men, Jesus Campos, a worker with the Baltimore firm, who claims to know the victims said.

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Jesus Campos, a construction worker who knows the crew, said the men were from Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Mexico. They are in their 30s and 40s and have spouses and children.



They are hard-working, humble men, he said.



More updates to come for @BaltimoreBanner. pic.twitter.com/dhMoFTiU7I  clara longo de freitas (@claralfreitas) March 26, 2024

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Two other workers were rescued from the water. One was not hurt; the other was hospitalized but later released.

A state of emergency was declared in Baltimore on Tuesday after the now-collapsed bridge was struck by a huge Singaporean-flagged cargo vessel named Dali.
South San Francisco police posted this photo, saying it is of a possible mountain lion spotted in town on March 26, 2024. Photo courtesy of South San Francisco Police Department

What is believed to be a mountain lion was sighted prowling a residential neighborhood in South San Francisco early Tuesday morning.

The big cat was captured on a home security camera around 7 a.m. on the 200 block of Mansfield Drive, according to a Facebook post from the South San Francisco Police Department. Despite a search of the area following the sighting, officers were unable to locate the animal.

From the grainy picture attached to the post, some residents speculated that the camera might have just captured a hefty house cat at an angle that exaggerated its size.

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Regardless, the police issued advice on its Facebook page for residents who might encounter a mountain lion: Make your presence known; make noise, try to make yourself appear bigger and back away slowly. The agency added, Do not leave your domestic pets food outside, pets can attract mountain lions into developed areas such as this backyard.

The potential spotting comes days after a mountain lion killed a 21-year-old man and injured his 18-year-old brother in rural El Dorado County. The incident marked the first reported fatal attack in California since 2004.

The mountain lion involved in that attack was subsequently located and euthanized by game wardens and trappers from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the El Dorado County Trapper. The animals body was collected for examination, according to the El Dorado County Sheriffs Office.

Wildlife experts told the Chronicle that mountain lions typically avoid human encounters. Beth Pratt, the regional executive director of the National Wildlife Federation, said conflicts between humans and wildlife often arise when animals are protecting their young or their food source. Mountain lions really want nothing to do with us, she said.

Before the most recent incident, a young boy was attacked in an unincorporated section of San Mateo County in 2023.

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According to Justin Dellinger, the leader of UC Davis California Mountain Lion Project, data indicates that there are approximately 4,500 mountain lions statewide. Regions closer to the coast, including the Bay Area, and the northwest part of the state, generally have higher densities of mountain lions.
Nora Mishanec is a San Francisco Chronicle breaking news and enterprise reporter. She joined the paper in 2020 as a Hearst fellow and returned in 2022 after a stint at The Houston Chronicle.

She can be reached at nora.mishanec@sfchronicle.com.
A fledgling barred owl sits in a tree at Muir Woods in Mill Valley in 2011. Michael Macor/The Chronicle

A collection of 75 animal rights and wildlife organizations sent a letter to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland on Tuesday asking her to stop a plan by federal wildlife officials to shoot more than a half-million barred owls in Northern California, Oregon and Washington in an effort to protect a closely related species, the threatened northern spotted owl.

The barred owls, which are non-native to the Pacific Northwest and Northern California, are considered responsible for the decline of the native spotted owl, whose populations are shrinking, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which has proposed the depredation plan. The northern spotted owl is considered threatened and is protected under federal law. Two other species of spotted owl are also protected.

But the animal-rights groups, in a news release, called the plan impractical and inhumane and a far-fetched strategy to reduce competition with beleaguered spotted owls.

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This plan will cause severe disruptions to wildlife from the forest floor to its canopies, producing an untold number of mistaken-identity kills of other native owl species (including spotted owls), disrupting nesting behavior for animals, poisoning wildlife from dispersed and fragmented lead, and causing rapid dispersal and social chaos among many other species inhabiting these forest ecosystems, the letter said.

The letter was spearheaded by two animal-rights organizations, Animal Wellness Action and Center for a Humane Economy. The other dozens of signers are mostly state and local animal-welfare groups.

There are no traditional environmental groups there, said Tom Wheeler, executive director of the Environmental Protection Information Center, a Eureka group that aims to protect wildlife species, forests and watershed. He said the coalition reached out to environmental groups but found a lack or support.

I dont recognize a lot of my sibling environmental groups there, he said.

In this May 8, 2003, file photo, a northern spotted owl sits on a tree branch in the Deschutes National Forest near Camp Sherman, Ore. Don Ryan/Associated Press

EPIC supports the plan to shoot barred owls as an unsavory but necessary strategy to save the spotted owl from extinction, he said.

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More commonly found in the eastern U.S., southern Canada and parts of south-central Mexico, the barred owls began expanding westward less than a century ago, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

They first appeared in the West in the 1970s, state wildlife officials said, but their numbers began increasing in the 1980s and 1990s and have continued to rise. Meanwhile, the less-aggressive spotted owls have seen their populations decline.

Federal wildlife officials last fall proposed hiring hunters with shotguns to kill barred owls in forests on public and private lands across the three states. They would shoot about 20,000 the first year, then continue killing them for the next 30 years. The plan has been studied and gone through a public comment period, according to the groups, but not yet approved. No firm timeline for the approval process exists, the groups said.

The plan to shoot the barred owls, the letter said, will result in accidental shootings of other native owls, the poisoning of habitat if lead ammunition is used, and the disruption of forest ecosystems. The letter also claims the plan is destined to fail because of its large scale, covering millions of acres, and the limited success of previous federal efforts at controlling species for conservation purposes.

The plan to kill barred owls is a colossally reckless action, almost unprecedented in the history of American wildlife management the letter concludes. It should be sidelined with all deliberate speed, and non-lethal management actions to protect spotted owls and their habitats should be made the priority actions of the USFWS.

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But Wheeler disputed the coalitions claims as misleading and inaccurate, and said efforts to eliminate the barred owl will greatly benefit the spotted owl.
When Starwood Capital Group spent nearly $500 million on a trio of prominent office towers blocks from Lake Merritt in 2019, the Miami-based private equity firm was one of many institutional investors who saw long-term potential in downtown Oakland. Years of economic growth had paved the way for new construction, a burgeoning office market and an influx of new businesses and residents fleeing the high costs and oversaturation of other Bay Area cities  notably, San Francisco.

But just five years later, the megadeal has imploded.

S.F. Bay Area property map: Heres who owns every building in the region

People with insight into Starwoods investments have confirmed that the firm has surrendered the towers to its lender, Deutsche Bank, and the buildings at 1901 Harrison, 2100 Franklin and 2101 Webster streets are expected to be sold. If recent real estate transactions in San Francisco are an indication, Starwoods towers will likely sell well below their 2019 values.

Both Starwood and Deutsche Bank declined to comment on the situation.

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The foreclosures are the latest trouble for downtown Oaklands business ecosystem, and they raise further questions about its post-pandemic recovery in a region where commercial real estate has played a vital role in powering downtown economies. For years, Oaklands selling point for companies and residents, priced out of high-cost markets like San Francisco, has been its affordability. But the price gap is closing amid plummeting values in San Francisco.

A man passes a vacant storefront on Broadway in downtown Oakland. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

Murals line an Oakland building in front of 1330 Broadway, center. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

Vacancy across Oaklands crop of shiny downtown office high-rises was at an all-time high of 30.2% late last year. In 2019, just 8.8% of offices in the business district were vacant, per data provided by real estate firm CBRE. Meanwhile, several storefronts of varying size in the citys business district have been empty for years.

Oaklands cultural diversity and unique offering of restaurants, murals, edgy galleries, hip hop and DIY fashion design have long been part of its charm. Its downtown office towers sit among historic buildings, and within walking distance of housing, shops and transportation.

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But the lack of activity in the streets during weekday business hours is putting pressure on the citys merchants and is compounded by worsening perceptions about safety in recent years. Last year, reports of violent incidents citywide rose 21% from 2022, though the city is not at the heights of violent crime it experienced in past decades.

This trajectory mirrors the recent struggles of San Francisco. While downtown San Franciscos recovery remains elusive four years after the pandemic, the outlook for downtown Oakland could be worse.

The market for these highly concentrated, financial or technology centers of employment, at least in the medium term, wont be seeing a total return, said Leigh Hanson, chief of staff for Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao. We need to be nimble in terms of responding to that, but also not overreacting.

A man crosses a lower level of Oakland City Center downtown. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

Lenders and institutional investors who were previously eager to fuel Oaklands economic development are taking a big step back.

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For Deutsche Bank, Starwoods lender, its wait and see, said a person with direct knowledge of the banks investment strategy for the next two years.

Office is a distressed asset. Theyre taking a cautious view  more conservative than average, the person said, adding that Deutsche Bank is very cautious about taking on new clients and devoting resources to both the San Francisco and the Oakland markets.

With a new plan to guide downtowns future released on Friday, Oakland officials hope to decouple the citys economy from San Franciscos, through zoning changes, incentives and other efforts they envision as not only spurring development, but also protecting Oaklands arts and cultural assets and ensuring affordability to its stakeholders.

Pedestrians pass Swans Market during the Old Oakland Farmers Market downtown. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

But when the investment needed to implement this sweeping plan will return is an open question. Some say downtowns recovery could be accelerated if the city focuses on crime and quality-of-life issues that are hurting businesses.

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From a physical standpoint, downtown looks the best it has ever looked. All the Class A office towers are done, and it has more residential than ever before, said East Bay office broker Scott Greenwood. For the first time in its history, we are not on the come anymore.

On a recent morning, Greenwood, a senior vice president at CBRE, eyed the San Francisco skyline from his firms 18th floor suite, located inside one of Oaklands premier office towers at 1111 Broadway.

Its not even close to an exaggeration to say that, between 2017 and 2019, downtown Oakland was significantly more vibrant at night than downtown San Francisco, Greenwood said. The problem is: Theres no one living in downtown San Francisco.

A delivery driver crosses 13th Street next to a deserted parklet in Oakland. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

While Oaklands nightlife surged, fueled by multiple theaters and clubs, street festivals and diverse dining options, San Francisco leaned heavily on its office real estate and techs expansion in downtown to power the citys economy  to its own detriment: More than a third of its downtown offices, which encompass nearly 80 million square feet, sit vacant as a result of tech layoffs and the rising popularity of remote work.

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The city had a close to 36% office vacancy rate at the end of last year, up from single digits in 2019. Office rents have dropped significantly, and San Franciscos office market has shifted into something it hasnt been for a long time: one where tenants have the power and negotiating leverage, not the landlords.

But at the height of the citys tech boom, space was tight and expensive, and companies were looking to Oakland for relief.

Oakland was always your traditional stepsister market to San Francisco, said Anthony Shell, an executive vice president for real estate brokerage Colliers. He said that the city was long home to nonprofits and professional services firms, and therefore somewhat impervious to past downturns affecting the tech sector.

That changed when tech entered the equation.

There were a lot of tech employees who would buy homes in the East Bay and raise families there, and so, for a desire to be close to those population centers, tech companies would look to open offices in Oakland much more frequently, Shell said.

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In the early years of the Oakland migration trend, local and regional investors began to snatch up the citys older office buildings and renovate them, in the hopes of landing a venture capital-backed tenant at higher rents, Shell said.

Later in the cycle, we began seeing institutional capital come into the market to buy Class A buildings with a similar focus on improving them to attract tech tenants, Shell said, referring to investment funds that chased newer office buildings in desirable locations.

Seen from downtown Oakland, the sun sets over San Francisco. At center is Oakland City Hall. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

Developers and investors responded to the influx of demand for space with new development. At the start of 2018, more construction activity was underway in downtown Oakland than in any other period in recent history, per a market report published by real estate firm Avison Young for the first quarter of 2018.

Now, dipping office rents and millions of square feet of available space in San Francisco mean that Oaklands downtown will need to rely on its other attributes to capture the few tenants searching for new offices.

If companies were going to compare the two markets, one of the drivers to Oakland was cost, so that driver is probably gone, said Mark Geisreiter, executive managing director with real estate firm Newmark.

Oakland has but a fraction of San Franciscos office space  just under 12 million square feet, per CBRE  and yet it is facing similar headwinds. Roughly one-third of offices in Oaklands central business district, which includes the Uptown, downtown and Lake Merritt neighborhoods  sat empty at the end of last year.

With banks shying away from office investments, many landlords across the Bay Area are now facing a challenging credit environment, said Shell.

This, coupled with the drop in leasing activity and so little tech looking for space, has created almost a perfect storm, especially in Oakland, he said.

While some tenant migration into Oakland continued during the pandemic  utility giant PG&E completed a large deal to move its headquarters from San Francisco to Oakland in 2021  other deals did not come together as planned.

Kaiser Permanente, one of Oaklands largest employers, pulled out of its planned $900 million Oakland headquarters project at 2100 Telegraph Ave., in the heart of downtown. X-Corp., formerly Twitter, scrapped plans for a downtown Oakland office lease. And, since signing a 350,000-square-foot lease at Uptown Station, fintech company Block Inc, formerly Square, is working to find subtenants. Meanwhile, a large retail space along Broadway on the ground floor of Uptown Station has been empty for years.

Greenwood, of CBRE, said that in the five years prior to 2020, downtown Oakland saw some 3 million square feet of space leased by companies from outside the market.

Cars drive down Broadway in downtown Oakland. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

Now the city is in danger of losing office tenants to other East Bay markets, like Emeryville and Walnut Creek. Individuals tracking the Oakland office market say affordability and downtowns conditions are motivating factors.

Greenwood said hes currently aware of roughly half a dozen downtown companies  which he declined to name but described as non-tech office tenants  that are open to other markets.

Turner Construction Co., which has a regional office at 300 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza downtown, is reportedly among the groups evaluating other East Bay cities for office space.

Turner has been serving Northern California for more than 50 years. We will maintain our presence in Oakland as we expand our footprint in the Bay Area, said Dan Wheeler, Turners senior vice president for the Northern California region.

Its not an exodus, Greenwood said. But those tenants are looking for a safe place to be.

While remote work has emptied offices, Isaac Abid, a partner at Oakland investment and development firm HP Investors, which owns more than a dozen commercial properties downtown, believes concerns about crime and safety have caused the most damage to the citys downtown business ecosystem.

Public officials are facing pressure to respond to surges in violent crime, property crimes and burglaries over the past two years, which have forced restaurants and businesses to close, hire security or stop accepting cash.

Abid said the problem became so intense over the past year that his team was forced to install security gates for multiple merchants that lease space on the ground floors of HPs buildings.

The measures that we have had to take to fortify storefronts are steps that I never thought we would have to take, said Abid, who is also a member of one of two groups seeking to recall Alameda Countys district attorney, Pamela Price, over concerns that not enough is being done to hold perpetrators accountable.

While crime reductions have followed recent investments in law enforcement in San Francisco, demand for office space in the city remains down.

Oakland, too, has ramped up its downtown police presence in recent months, but there are signs of ongoing tensions.

Stop crimes. Save our lives. Save our city. Save our businesses, read a poster hung inside of a storefront near 12th Street and Broadway earlier this month.

DC Looney said that business is down at Punchdown Wine, his natural wine bar and he blames a perfect storm of unfavorable conditions. Its the lack of foot traffic. You know, quite a few people have moved away from Oakland, Looney said. And since the pandemic, the citys reputation around crime, its kept people from wanting to stay downtown. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

Patrons drink at Punchdown Wine Bar in downtown Oakland. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

DC Looney said that business at Punchdown Wine, his natural wine bar at 1737 Broadway, is down roughly 50% from 2019. He blames a perfect storm of unfavorable conditions for keeping a list of downtown storefronts vacant and would-be customers away.

Its the lack of foot traffic. You know, quite a few people have moved away from Oakland, Looney said. And since the pandemic, the citys reputation around crime, its kept people from wanting to stay downtown.

Judith Echeverria, digital manager at McMullen Boutique, arranges clothing on display in downtown Oakland. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

Sherri McMullen, who operates a womens clothing boutique at Broadway and Grand Avenue that suffered four break-ins within eight months in 2022, said that before the pandemic, it felt safe to keep the doors to her shop open.

Abid said that the city does not have a working downtown at the moment.

Downtown Oakland has all of the ingredients to be the vibrant cultural and economic center of the city, but it will take a concentrated effort from the private sector and the city to bring it back, he said.

When it comes to planning for the future of Oakland, Hanson, of the mayors office, said the city is looking for a more equitable downtown.

There are lots of things going for Oakland, but I think being able to self-generate a lot of economic activity that we can then rely on, rather than being so dependent on the ebbs and flows of the San Francisco tech economy, is probably a much longer-term, more stable place for us to be in, Hanson said.

Pedestrians pass a long vacant storefront at Telegraph Avenue and Thomas L. Berkley Way in downtown Oakland. Noah Berger/Special to the Chronicle

Short-term interventions to address crime and activate downtown include new safety cameras, reduced parking meter fees after 5 p.m. and extended hours for parking garages, Hanson said.

The Downtown Oakland Specific Plan, released by the city on Friday, takes a longer view.

The policy document calls for the construction of 29,100 new homes, with up to 7,275 of them affordable, by 2040. It aims to generate funds for public services and to subsidize affordable housing through development impact fees and taxes. It proposes greater land use flexibility to support diverse businesses downtown and encourages research and development and biotechnology.

Greenwood, the office broker, said that even though funding for biotechnology has cooled since the height of the pandemic, he supports zoning changes that will, at some point, bring diverse industries into downtown.

Office development isnt coming back for a long time, but biotech and residential certainly could, Greenwood said, though he questioned the citys downtown housing plan, which requires more concessions from developers. Its the hardest time to develop  construction and capital are expensive, demand is lower than pre-pandemic and rents dont pencil for developers. Theres a lot of risk.

But Alan Dones, a developer who has helped shape Oaklands skyline, said now is the time to get it right.
Customers eat tostadas topped with Japanese egg salad, stone fruit, Indian saag paneer and more during a Tacos Sincero pop-up in Berkeley in 2022. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle Arroz con leche infused with rosewater and saffron at Movida in San Francisco. Cesar Hernandez / The Chronicle Mexican birria served over Persian crispy rice, or tahdig, tostadas at Movida in S.F. Cesar Hernandez / The Chronicle

The warm embrace of a rice pudding convinced me that there was love coursing through Movida, a restaurant that unexpectedly marries Persian and Mexican cuisines in San Francisco. A liquid bouquet of rosewater and saffron gave the arroz con leche floral notes, while cinnamon brought warmth and crushed pistachios supplied nuttiness.

Some of the Bay Areas best places to eat are blending disparate influences on the plate. At San Francisco bar Stoa, a bowl of charred mochi paired with smoky adobo sauce integrates Mexican and Japanese cultures with seamless stitchwork. Burger pop-up Smish Smash cleverly utilizes the herbaceous, beefy flavors of Vietnamese pho as a seasoning in the exquisite dac biet burger. High-end Korean restaurant San Ho Won serves a pozole-like kimchi stew featuring chewy hominy.

This style of cooking used to have another name: fusion, a category that chefs and food professionals tend to avoid.

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Grilled mochi at Stoa in San Francisco blends Japanese and Mexican flavors. Jonah Reenders/Special to The Chronicle

To some, fusion is a dirty word. Critics of the genre dubbed it confusion cuisine, which poorly mashed together elements from separate cultures. Examples like wasabi mashed potatoes  seen as one of fusions worst offenders  have receded into the annals of culinary history. But the fusion I see today is more exciting, and theres nothing contrived about it. Often, it comes from the lived experiences of chefs from mixed race or third culture backgrounds. Whereas in the past, fusion could feel like using other cultures as a garnish, the current wave is a natural extension of reality.

Most delicious things under the sun are byproducts of fusion  imagine Italian or Indian cooking without New World ingredients like tomatoes and chiles. In an American dining context, the cuisine dates back to the late 1980s and 1990s. Chefs like Norman Van Aken in Florida, with his so-called New World Cuisine, and Wolfgang Puck in Los Angeles, with Asian fusion, were the leading figures who popularized the style.

By the turn of the century, the style had gone out of fashion, but it never fully went away. In the 2010s, fusion made a casual return with food trucks  seen with the successes of Filipino-Mexican empire Senor Sisig locally and Korean taco outfit Kogi in Southern California. These days modern, contemporary or New American restaurants, which routinely combine French technique with Vietnamese or Japanese flavors, for example, have become fusion by another title.

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A Filipino-inspired sisig chopped cheese sandwich from Lone Crow in Union City. Cesar Hernandez / The Chronicle

If nothing else, the language of fusion still has utility. I dont see it as a bad word, said Dean Ramirez, owner of the Lone Crow in Union City. It might not capture all of the intention behind his sisig chopped cheese sandwich, but its a shortcut to meaning for guests.

Ramirez draws from a personal place: his summers spent with Hawaiian family; his time in professional kitchens picking up Japanese and Haitian techniques; his visits with friends in New York. The chopped cheese merges the taste of New York bodegas with Filipino flavors like calamansi and soy-vinegar. The spicy mochiko fried chicken sandwich points to Hawaii, with a guava hot sauce and burnt Thai chile oil.

For Tony Huang, owner of KaoKao Grill in Berkeley, the classification of his restaurant as fusion started as an accident: A Yelp representative, who was helping Huang set up a page, described the restaurants concept as fusion. After all, KaoKao presented a middle ground between American barbecue and Chinese cuisine. By using the term, customers exclusively seeking smoked brisket or traditional char siu would understand that KaoKao does things differently.

Char siu, a Chinese-meets-American barbecue dish, at KaoKao Grill in Berkeley. Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

In actuality, KaoKaos sticky, wood-smoked char siu is an expression of Huangs upbringing. Inspired by the intoxicating scents of the neighbors charcoal-burning grills, Huangs father matched American barbecue technique with Chinese flavor.

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Similarly, Reka and Fik Saleh, owners of Alamedas Fikscue, synthesized a new type of barbecue at their home dinner table. One fateful night, Fik had brisket leftovers after a Texas-style barbecue pop-up, so Reka used it to make balado (Indonesian stir-fried meat with sambal). The pairing fit swimmingly, creating a strong basis for their restaurants most enticing dishes, like melty, wood-flavored cubes of brisket cooked with coconut-flavored rendang paste.

Reka Saleh prepares Indonesian rendang with smoked meat at Fikscue in Alameda. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle

Despite chefs newfound embrace of fusion flavors, theres still some hesitation around the word. Sometimes the term (can) be used to be really freaking lazy, Huang said. Ramirez of Lone Crow, for example, resists outright calling his food fusion, feeling like it places a box on creativity.

Thats why Sincere Justice of the hard-to-categorize pop-up Tacos Sincero avoids such labels, too. His biggest sources of inspirations are ethnic enclaves, like the Mexican and Asian neighborhood he grew up in, and street food, like that of Vietnam, Japan and India. Youre going to naturally think about some intersections between the reality youre experiencing and a possible new reality, he said.

The way he blends ingredients can be seen in small but crucial details, like simulating smokiness in Indian butter chicken through Mexican morita chiles. Or he might top tostadas with zesty Japanese egg salad.

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Sincere Justice, who runs the pop-up Tacos Sincero, tops tostadas with chicken tinga and Japanese egg salad in Berkeley in 2022. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

The main thing is that it has to work. Whereas fusion used to sound like a global, vague song, its now highly specific. Consider the process of a hip-hop sample, using a collage of influences to create something original. What we hear from this recent crop of cooking talent are fresh, personal arrangements  a full emulsion of flavors and cultures.

You can fuse however you want, said Justice. If were using a music reference, I want the s to sound good.

Where to try the Bay Areas current wave of fusion cuisine

Fikscue. 1708 Park St., Alameda. fikscue.com

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Lone Crow. 3821 Smith St., Union City. thelonecrow.com

KaoKao Grill. 2993 College Ave., Berkeley. kaokaogrill.com

Movida. 555 Second St., San Francisco. movidalounge.com
Mario Cortez joined The Chronicle Food & Wine team in 2022. He is originally from San Diego, where he contributed to local and online publications. He last worked at the Eureka Times-Standard, where he was sports editor and a staff reporter. Cortez was also a regular writer for Eater San Diego.

He likes analog photography, playing soccer and, naturally, great food.

He can be reached at mario.cortez@sfchronicle.com.
Dennis received bachelor's degrees in communication and political science with a TAG degree in Spanish from The University of Akron in Ohio. He grew up in Ohio with 2 sisters and two brothers, one being his fraternal twin. He and his wife have 3 dogs: Duke, Bacio, and Cal. Dennis currently covers natural resource and environmental issues for The Daily Sentinel
Manuel Rosales, the governor of the oil-rich province of Zulia and a member of the PUD coalition, managed to sign up last-minute in what he said was a last-ditch attempt to avoid the opposition from being left out of the race
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Paramedic workers search for victims in the rubble of a paramedic center that was destroyed by an Israeli airstrike early Wednesday in Hebbariye village, south Lebanon, Wednesday, March 27, 2024. The Israeli airstrike on a paramedic center linked to a Lebanese Sunni Muslim group killed several people of its members. The strike was one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the Lebanon-Israel border more than five months ago.
Sunday Night

Partly cloudy. A few flurries or snow showers possible. Low around 35F. SSE winds at 10 to 20 mph, decreasing to 5 to 10 mph.
March 19, National Ag Day and to recognize Montana ag, Senator Daines made the following statement:

Montanas rich ag legacy helps make us special, and its an important part of our Montana way of life. Today on National Ag Day, and every day, Im thankful for the Montana farmers and ranchers that work sun up to sun down to help feed our state, nation and the world.

Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) also released the following statement in celebration of National Ag Day:

Today and every day, we recognize farmers and ranchers across the Treasure State who work tirelessly to feed and fuel our country, said Rep. Rosendale. It is an honor to represent and fight for thousands of Montana agricultural producers here in Washington, D.C. Happy National Ag Day!

Continuing ag week in Montana, Governor Gianforte shared a meal with local producers in Charlo on March 20 to promote the states agriculture industry.

Montanas farmers and ranchers play a critical role in our communities by providing essential products that nourish our state and nation, Gov. Gianforte said. During Ag Week, we recognize their hard work and dedication to ensure that we have access to high-quality, locally sourced food and other products.

The governor concluded the lunch adding, Our states economy and communities rely on agriculture, and we are committed to investing in value-added ag to create jobs and expand opportunities for our hardworking producers like you all.

On March 22, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) honored hard-working farmers and ranchers throughout America on the House Floor in celebration of Montana and National Ag week.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition and celebration of both national and Montana Ag week. Food security is national security and across the treasure state and the country farmers work tirelessly to keep food supply safe and plentiful, so we dont have to rely on foreign nations to sustain our population. Agriculture isnt just an industry in Montana- its our way of life.

It contributes an average of $5.2 billion a year to the economy. Producers hard work, dedication, and resilience playing essential role in feeding our communities, sustaining our economy, and managing our land. While Ag production is a vital industry it doesnt come without its challenges.

Congress must first secure a strong crop insurance program that gives producers certainty and secondly pass my Land and National Defense Act which would prohibit the Chinese Communist Party from buying farmland in our country. Both initiatives can be included in this years Farm Bill to show producers, folks here in Washington havent forgotten about them and have their backs in times of need. Ag producers deserve recognition for the work they do to take care of our great nation. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield back.
The Valley County Comprehensive Child Find Screening will be held on Thursday, April 4, and Friday, April 5, at the First Lutheran Church in Glasgow from 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. This screening is for all children from birth to school entry age. The purpose of this screening is to find children who may need special help AND to help facilitate Irle School kindergarten registration.

The screening assessments include the following areas:

--Hearing for children of all age

--Speech for children three years old and older.

--Gross/Fine Motor Development

--Concept Development

To make an appointment for the Child Find Screening, please visit the Irle Elementary Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/IrleElementarySchool, for the SignUpGenius direct link.

All children who will be entering Kindergarten in the Glasgow School District this fall are required to attend child find screening/registration.

Kindergarten Registration can be found on the Glasgow School Website, http://www.glasgow.k12.mt.us/, starting Thursday, April 4.
To mitigate the spread of whooping cough, doctors commonly recommend DTaP vaccinations, which protect against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. Lance Iversen/The Chronicle 2012

Marin County is experiencing a significant increase in whooping cough cases, primarily centered on one of its largest high schools.

The countys health officer, Matt Willis, issued an advisory last week indicating that out of the 93 cases recorded in the region since mid-December, 65 have occurred at Tamalpais High School in Mill Valley.

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It manifests as prolonged bouts of coughing, often accompanied by a distinctive whooping sound when a person inhales. Typical symptoms resemble a common cold, including a runny nose and fever.

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While the persistent cough can last more than 10 weeks, it seldom results in severe health complications for healthy individuals. During the current outbreak, Marin County health officials have reported no hospitalizations due to pertussis and no cases among infants.

Although whooping cough can be relatively mild for most people, it can be fatal for infants, particularly those in their first few months who have not yet been vaccinated.

Testing for pertussis is available through a physicians office, either by an evaluation or a nasal swab test. If a person tests positive, the physician can prescribe the antibiotic azithromycin for a required five-day isolation period.

To mitigate the spread of whooping cough, doctors commonly recommend DTaP vaccinations. Even those who have been vaccinated may still contract the disease, but they generally experience less severe symptoms, Willis said.

Pertussis peaks cyclically, with surges occurring every three to five years. Marin County reported its last whooping cough outbreak during the 2018-19 winter season, with approximately 300 cases reported. Alameda County experienced a surge at that time as well.

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High school students are often the most affected due to the waning immunity from the pertussis vaccine they typically receive in seventh grade.

Officials previously attributed a high rate of whooping cough cases in Marin County to its relatively low vaccination rates compared with other Bay Area counties. But that figure has dramatically improved in recent years. As of the 2021-2022 school year, nearly 97% of kindergartners in the county were up to date on their required immunizations compared with just 78% a decade earlier.

In 2023, there were 589 whooping cough cases reported across California.
For the week of Feb. 26 through March 2, there were 16 motor vehicle stops, one report of loose livestock, one report of a loose dog, and one report of a missing dog.

For the week of March 4 through March 10, there were 23 motor vehicle stops, two VIN inspections and there were three reports of deer being hit by vehicles.

For the week of March 11 through 16, there were 14 motor vehicle stops, one VIN inspection request, two reports of loose livestock, one report of a deer being hit by a vehicle and one report of a loose dog.

Thursday, Feb. 29

1526  Reporting party called stating someone has gotten into some of his cars. It looks like it happened about a week ago. There are some really good footprints for the officer to get.

2158  A suspicious person was reported. It was determined to be the schools custodian.

2232  Reporting party stated he blew a tire on his van. Its off the road and he will get it fixed tomorrow.

Friday, March 1

2126  Caller reported three cars that have been speeding by. She could not provide a vehicle description because of the yard lights.

2139  Caller reported a pick up in the lot that has its headlights and tail lights on, including flashers. It has been there for about 15 minutes. Officer was unable to make contact.

Saturday, March 2

0844  BNSF made a courtesy call to state there is a light hanging on the crossing. A crew has been notified and is headed to the location to fix it.

1359  Female caller reported that while they were traveling east towards Wolf Point, they encountered a van facing west bound with hazard lights on at the side of the road. There are people in the vehicle but it was unknown how many. Information was passed along to a deputy. The deputy drove all the way to Roosevelt County line and did not locate the vehicle.

2232  Reporting party is frantic, sitting on the side of the road. She doesnt know where she is. MHP was able to locate the reporting party and helped her to get the intersection. At 2325, the caller made it home safe and wanted to thank dispatch and the person that helped get her home.

2242  Caller reported her ex-boyfriend came into her house and took her keys, stealing her vehicle. A deputy was notified who went to the house to get more information and look at the door for damage.

Monday, March 4

0146  RCSO called to let dispatch know they received a call about a trailer that is fully engulfed and the house next to it is beginning to catch on fire. They have an engine enroute. A few minutes later, a deputy called and reported a camper that is fully engulfed and the house next to it is beginning to catch fire. Dispatch advised a deputy; fire department and ambulance are enroute. MDU was called as well as NorVal. At 0210, a female called and said someone called and said someone called her stating her house was on fire. She stated her daughter and son-in-law are now living there.

Tuesday, March 5

1540  Reporting party stated the Treasurers Office transferred her to Dispatch in regard to a missing plate from her vehicle. She stated she wanted to report them stolen, the reason is because she received a final notice for payment for towing from near Dallas, Texas. She stated she has never bene there before so she is not understanding why she is receiving this notice. Dispatch asked if she has checked her vehicle for the plates yet, and she hasnt. A deputy was advised of the call.

1620  Reporting party stated he will be coming through with an oversized load this week, most likely on Friday. First he needs to make contact with all of the agencies on the route, then he can get his permits from the State. He stated he will have one load this week and then two next week.

1802  Caller reported her husband drove past a residence and witnessed a male enter the building. Reporting party stated no one is supposed to be in there since the owner has passed away. The reporting party and her husband have been checking the property. Roosevelt County Dispatch was notified and they will get a Tribal Officer to respond. At 1822, deputy advised he spoke with the male reporting party who told him that he caught a man and his wife trying to kick in the door to the residence. The reporting party chased off the two of them. At 1902, two people were in custody and one was released a half hour later, while the other male was transported by the Tribal Officer.

Wednesday, March 6

1252  Caller reported she is westbound on Highway 2 and there is vehicle that has been riding the center line and drifting into oncoming traffic since Wolf Point. She is welling to sign a complaint. A deputy was notified who was unable to locate the vehicle.

1339  Caller stated the female involved with the shoplifting incident about a month ago is in the store. He had spoke to an officer about this and believes there may be a warrant for her.

1358  A male called in wanting to know if anyone has turned in a set of keys. A description of the key ring was provided.

Thursday, March 7

1220  A vehicle slide off call was reported. An officer advised the parents are going to try to pull the vehicle out of the ditch.

1733  Reporting party said there was a trailer that was pulled into her sons yard. She said who she believed it belonged to. They wanted the trailer moved off the property so they parked it behind the bar. The reporting party said she gave some homeless people permission to stay in the trailer so its not vandalized. Shes not receiving harassing text messages from a female stating that the trailer belongs to her man. The reporting party wanted to speak with an officer.

1905  A business called to see if a wallet was turned in. She stated a male lost a wallet and provided a description of the wallet as well as its contents. The male lost it sometime this afternoon. An officer was advised.

2101  Reporting party reported a dog bite that happened int eh city. Dog does not live at the residence but parents know where the dog lives and that it was vaccinated. Officer will go speak with the owner of the dog.

Friday, March 8

Only motor vehicle stops were recorded on this day.

Saturday, March 9

0326  Caller, who wanted to stay anonymous, reported a truck, with their lights on and music blaring, has been sitting for about an hour. The caller didnt know who it is, but knows they live there and have done this before. An officer was located who was unable to locate.

2047  Caller reported a pickup that is racing through Frazer. A deputy was notified who patrolled the area, and was unable to locate anything.

2300  A deputy had some people come up to him and said there is a suspicious person over by the gas station. A deputy was able to speak with the person and indicated he cant be hanging out there when it isnt open.

Sunday, March 10

0305  Reporting party said there is a man laying in the empty lot between a business and an abandoned building on the north side of the highway. A second caller reported the same thing about 10 minutes later.

Monday, March 11

1745  Caller reported that both lanes of Hwy 117, mile marker 8 and 9 are blocked by hay. The hay is in a bad spot so you cant see it as your coming up the hill. Glendive DOT was notified.

Tuesday, March 12

0058  Reporting party called and said someone was banging on his door and woke him up. He doesnt want to answer the door because he doesnt know who it is and they wont go away. An officer was notified who arrived on scene. Officer advised the person banging on the door was wanting the reporting party to give him ma ride home. Officer then advised the reporting party refused to help and the male left to go find someone to call his wife to give him a ride home.

1241  Reporting party called stating she got a scam call from a male with an accent, telling her he is with MDU and they are going to shut off the power. She stated she knows this is a scam and he hung up. She didnt provide any of her personal information but she wants everyone to know this is scam is going around again.

1834  A bunch of peacocks were reported on Skylark Road. A deputy was notified who stated they will talk to someone about the peacocks. It was determined the animals were free range.

Wednesday, March 13

Only motor vehicle stops were recorded.

Thursday, March 14

1130  Reporting party is calling in stating he had gotten gas on March 8. He had paid with his debit card. He was looking at his statement last night and noticed a charge on his card at the same location about 20 minutes after he had used his card and had already gotten gas. He put a lock on his card right away. He doesnt know how they got his card and he believes it may have fallen out of his pocket when he used his debit card. A deputy advised to start a card for theft.

1414  MHP Dispatch advised they got a call about a broken-down vehicle, partially blocking the northbound lane. She advised the trooper is out of position. Valley County Deputy responded who stated the vehicle appears to be unoccupied. He was able to get in contact with the registered owner and he will get the vehicle in about 20 minutes.

1500  Reporting party stated there is a red Peterbilt pulling a Refer. The back brakes are hung up and is fixing to catch on fire. He tried to get the guy to stop but he just kept on going toward town. Officer was able to locate the semi and spoke to the driver. The driver will be going to pull off the road for awhile to let them cool off and hopefully reset themselves.

1623  Reporting party stating there is a male subject on her property who is a registered sex offender. She advised he is not to be on her property. She said she believes the reason he is there is because his girlfriend or wifes step father lives there and she comes to visit him. She said he cane come there and drop her off but he is not supposed to be on the property. She wanted to speak to an officer about this. An officer responded who advised the steps the reporting party has to take to get the male trespassed from the property.

Friday, March 15

0922  Reporting party called to report she can see smoke coming out of the exhaust. Dispatch asked if the truck was running and the reporting party said no. As dispatch was getting ready to page out LRFD, the registered owner called in It was his pickup and everything is fine.

1200  Unknown female called requesting an officer. She stated she had a complaint: she yelled to dispatch that someone stole her pills and then asked if that make it anymore clearer them. She then wanted to know if she had called Tribal. When notified she had called the Valley County Sheriffs Office, she hung up.

1544  Deputy advised hes on a public assist with a vehicle that has its hazards on.

1636  Caller reported theres a man riding a lawn mower. Hes burning the ditch with a torch. He was concerned because its windy out. LRFD FC asked to have an officer advised the man to put the fire out. There were no burn permits issued for the day.

2248  Reporting party stated his vehicle was stolen from his residence, and the keys were in the vehicle. There is only about 20 miles of fuel in it. There were two suspects and a description of what they were wearing was provided. MHP and FBI were notified. Deputy tried contacting the suspects phone and it went straight to voicemail. Drone operator also arrived on scene to try and locate the suspects. Officers checked the lot where one of the males is supposed to be living, according to his conditions, however the lot was vacant. Deputy received permission from property owner to search ranch property and buildings.

Saturday, March 16

1605  Woman reported a car in the ditch. She was advised it was pertaining to a separate call and it had been handled.
Under the creative direction of Lizzie Peters, Shyanne Wallace, Melissa Mickelson and Sydney Hayward, the cast and crew of 33 students welcomed the community to be their guest March 21 through 24, for the Glasgow High School Drama Department's Beauty and the Beast production.

Months of meticulous preparation, tireless rehearsals, and boundless creativity culminated in a production that dazzled and delighted audience members of all ages. The show enchanted the audience with its captivating storyline, vibrant characters and show-stopping musical numbers.

At the heart of the production were the students who brought the story to life with their passion, dedication, and raw talent. From the leads to the ensemble cast, each performer poured their heart and soul into perfecting their roles and embodying characters that resonated with the audience.

Leading the cast were Tanner White and Amber Pearson, who shined in their portrayal of Belle and Beast. They were joined by Adam Mickelson, Gabe Proctor, James Pearson, Vic Overby, Aspen Probert, Emily Bell, Annika Smith, and Jourdyn Fercho, who rounded out the lead roles. With their exceptional vocal prowess, captivating stage presence, and emotional depth, these students left a lasting impression on all who witnessed their performances.

But it wasn't just the lead roles that stole the spotlight. The ensemble cast, comprised of talented performers from as young as seventh grade, delivered powerhouse performances that showcase the depth of talent within the school community. From the energetic dance numbers to the poignant ensemble scenes, every member of the cast played an integral role in the production's success.

Behind the scenes, the dedicated cast, stage managers, and tech crew worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the production ran smoothly. From the intricately designed sets to the creative costumes and the flawless sound and lighting, their efforts were instrumental in creating a seamless and immersive experience for everyone who attended.

Through all of their hard work and dedication, the cast and crew of these students have created a community that they look forward to working with each day. "We have been able to create a big, weird family," says Glasgow High School junior Gabe Proctor. "We've been given the opportunity to make a safe place to be our authentic selves."

"We were given the creative freedom to create an immersive experience," Glasgow High School sophomore Annika Smith says. "We got to make the magic that drew us to this experience as kids. We are very excited to be able to inspire future generations."

The amazing cast and crew consisted of Tanner White, Adam Mickelson, Olivia Helland, Gabe Proctor, Amber Pearson, James Pearson, Jourdyn Fercho, Annika Smith, Emily Bell, Vic Overby, Emily Cronmiller, Aspen Probert, Eva Hlad, Mylee Rasmusan, Aaron Mickelson, Amelia Gilchrist, MJ Staggenborg, Romie Zumbuhl, Willow Sugg, Cody Lacock, Brayden Havelange, Cooper Gibson, Henry Holte, Caleb Messig, Jenyr Fercho, Rayne Jenkins, Sadie White, Leah Potter, Kinsley Rasmusan, Gabby Haskins, Tessa Stutheit, Braylon Partridge and Amani Probert.
Federal Council in favour of participating in US State Partnership Program

Swiss Government

Bern, 15.03.2024 -- The Federal Council wants Switzerland to participate in the State Partnership Program of the National Guard of the United States of America. This was decided at its meeting on 15 March. Participating in the programme will offer the Swiss Armed Forces the opportunity to further expand international cooperation and enhance its own defence capabilities.

The US National Guard's State Partnership Program (SPP), which has existed since the 1990s, serves to institutionalise training cooperation with foreign armed forces. The aim is to strengthen ties and enhance expertise and capabilities on both sides through regular exchanges. Today, 100 countries, 25 of which are in Europe, are members of this partnership programme.

The Federal Council's decision triggers the accession process. If the US authorities decide in favour of Switzerland joining the programme, effective participation would begin in 2025 at the earliest.

Strengthening defence capabilities and enhancing cooperation

International cooperation is particularly important with regard to strengthening the defence capabilities of the Swiss Armed Forces. Training exercises with international partners foster the exchange of knowledge and experience, and provide the Armed Forces with opportunities for comparing and reviewing their own capabilities and processes.

Cooperation with the US National Guard would support the Armed Forces in expanding interoperability. For example, operational procedures that have been tried and tested by the US National Guard could be incorporated into the Armed Forces' exercises and training, or joint specialist training could be offered in areas such as mountain rescue or NBC defence without entering into any obligations, dependencies or constraints that would be incompatible with neutrality.

Cooperation with the US

A military training cooperation agreement has existed between Switzerland and the US for a number of years. Participation in the SPP is an expansion of these good relations and will contribute to strengthening the defence capabilities of the Armed Forces.

The US National Guard and the Swiss Armed Forces have many common features in terms of structure, range of tasks and resources. The fact that they both have a similar militia system provides an ideal basis for cooperation. The content of the programme and the scope of cooperation are largely determined by the country that wishes to join the partnership, i.e. Switzerland.

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USNS Trenton (T-EPF 5) arrives in Algiers, Algeria

US Navy

23 March 2024

From U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Public Affairs

Military Sealift Command (MSC) Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Trenton (T-EPF 5) arrived in Algiers, Algeria for a regularly scheduled port visit, March 22, 2024.

The port visit provides an opportunity to enhance the U.S.-Algerian partnership as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous Mediterranean Sea. It also allows the sailors and Civilian Mariners of USNS Trenton a chance to experience the unique culture, historic sights and hospitality of an important North African partner.

While in port, the ship's leadership will engage with Algerian counterparts in a variety of events, including a meeting with Algerian Navy's regional commander.

"We are excited to once again be in Algeria to spend time with our Algerian partners, strengthening our relations and gaining a deeper understanding of the history and culture of this incredible country," said Cmdr. Damon Bateson, military detachment (MILDET) officer in charge. "This is our third visit to Algeria in nine months, and each visit provides an outstanding opportunity for us to discuss ways we can continue to increase our interoperability in the Mediterranean Sea."

Trenton previously conducted port visits in Algiers in July 2023 and Oran in November 2023. The pervious Algiers port visit coincided with the United States Independence Day as well as Algeria's Independence Day, while the visit to Oran marked the first port call by a U.S. naval vessel in several decades. Trenton and the Algerian Navy will conduct a passing exercise (PASSEX) upon Trenton's departure from Algiers, as they have done in previous instances.

"Passing exercises provide an excellent opportunity for navies to work together and learn how each other operate underway," said Captain Matthew Salas, Trenton's Ship's Master. "Cooperative engagements like this also build core seamanship skills."

In addition to port calls, the U.S. and Algeria continue to strengthen their partnership and collective maritime capacity through bilateral and multilateral exercises and operations. Algeria is a longtime participant in the U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVAF)-facilitated exercise Phoenix Express. The exercise brings together North African, European, and U.S. maritime forces as part of a global network of navies to enhance cooperation and expertise in maritime security operations in the Southern Mediterranean Sea.

USNS Trenton is a high-speed, shallow draft ship with the capability to deliver operationally ready units to flexibly support a wide range of missions including disaster relief, theater security cooperation and maritime domain awareness. It is crewed by civilian mariners, with military personnel embarking as required by the mission.

For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability.

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.

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USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117) arrives in Copenhagen, Denmark

US Navy

23 March 2024

From Ensign Karolyn Batista, USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117) Public Affairs Officer

USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117) a cutting-edge Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer assigned to Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe (FDNF-E), docked in Copenhagen, Denmark for a scheduled port visit, March 22, 2024.

This visit to Denmark underscores the U.S. Navy's commitment to fostering strong partnerships with NATO allies, bolstering maritime security, and promoting regional stability.

Cmdr. Corry Lougee, Commanding Officer of Paul Ignatius, expressed his enthusiasm for the visit, emphasizing the significance of the ship's presence in Copenhagen.

"It is a privilege to lead the exceptional crew of USS Paul Ignatius in our visit to Copenhagen," said Lougee. "This port call not only allows us to strengthen our bonds with our Danish partners but also provides a platform for us to showcase our ship's capabilities. We are proud to represent the U.S. Navy in Denmark and further our commitment to maritime security and cooperation."

The ship's visit to Copenhagen comes after the ship and crew participated in exercise Steadfast Defender, NATO's largest military exercise since the Cold War. Steadfast Defender took Paul Ignatius into the High North, including a scheduled port visit in the northern Norwegian city of Narvik, March 15. The ship's presence in the High North demonstrates the U.S. Navy's commitment to the region and underscores the versatility of the FDNF-E force.

USS Paul Ignatius, named in honor of Paul Ignatius, a distinguished public servant and World War II Navy veteran who served as the 59th Secretary of the Navy, is equipped with advanced technology and weaponry, enabling it to execute a wide array of missions, including anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare operations.

For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability.

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.



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MFA statement

Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Republic of Poland

24.03.2024

Poland will demand explanations from the Russian Federation regarding another violation of our country's national airspace.

Above all, we call on the Russian Federation to stop terrorist airstrikes on the inhabitants and territory of Ukraine, put an end to the war, and address its own domestic problems.

We express our sympathy for the victims of Russian bombings and their relatives.

The Republic of Poland condemns all forms of terrorism and attempts to revise borders by force.

MFA Spokesperson

Pawe Wronski

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U.S., Seychelles Conduct Bilateral Maritime Security engagements

US Navy

24 March 2024

From U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Public Affairs and U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area Public Affairs

Over the course of 7 days from March 14-21, 2024, United States Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) personnel worked alongside their counterparts in the Seychelles Coast Guard during multiple bilateral maritime security engagements in Seychelles' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

These events included identifying vessels suspected in engaging in illicit activity or illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in Seychelles' EEZ, which extends into significant portions of East Africa and the Western Indian Ocean. After identification, the U.S. and Seychelles teamed up to intercept vessels of interest to conduct compliant boardings of Seychelles-flagged vessels, ensuring adherence to Seychelles Maritime law.

"Our cooperation on maritime security is a visible sign of our mutual goal of a more secure and prosperous Indian Ocean Region," said U.S. Embassy Seychelles Charge d'Affaires, Adham Loutfi. "It gives me enormous satisfaction to know that Seychelles and the United States continue to work side by sidedemonstrating great dedication, courage, and sacrificeto ensure the safety and security of our maritime spaces."

These bilateral engagements come immediately after the East African maritime exercise Cutlass Express 2024, which was hosted by Djibouti, Kenya and the Seychelles. Cutlass Express focused on a variety of maritime security and stability issues, providing invaluable training and realistic scenarios for partners and Allies that they can then apply in real world operations, as is the case here.

"The 2024 enactment of the U.S.-Seychelles Bilateral agreement is the second major operation performed with our key Indian Ocean partner, Seychelles Coast Guard, since the agreement was signed in 2021," said Cmdr. Beau Powers, Chief of law enforcement operations at U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area. "Seychelles is a distinctly maritime nation, committed to meeting obligations to counter Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing as well as deterring illicit maritime activity. The U.S. Coast Guard is committed to performing combined operations with our highly capable counterparts in the Seychelles Coast Guard to stem such global problems. Training on law enforcement tactics, practicing information exchange, and then working together in operational law enforcement patrols, bolsters maritime security in a perfect demonstration of the U.S. and Seychelles' commitment to keeping the international rules-based order in this region."

Seychelles Special Forces, agents from Seychelles Maritime Safety Authority, the Seychelles Fishery Authority, and the U.S. Coast Guard kicked off the bilateral engagement on March 14. From day one, the team completed joint small boat sorties and maritime operations center communication rehearsals as part of a harmonization period to bring the team together. Once underway aboard the Seychelles Coast Guard ship SAYA DE MALHA, their meticulous planning and pre-underway coordination was evident as their efforts led to eight vessel boardings and over 700 nautical miles steamed throughout the West Indian Ocean.

This also continues a history of maritime cooperation between the United States and the Seychelles, as both nations are committed to preserving peace and stability, upholding freedom of the seas in a manner consistent with international law, maintaining the unimpeded flow of commerce, and opposing any attempt to use coercion or force to settle disputes. In addition to Coast Guard operations and the Cutlass Express series of exercises, the Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base USS Hershel "Woody" Williams (ESB 4) conducted a port visit in Victoria in July 2022, and U.S. Navy Divers have collaborated with Seychellois Divers to conduct survey and salvage missions in the Seychelles as recently as January 2023, demonstrating the diversity of cooperation between the two nations in the maritime domain.

The Coast Guard Atlantic Area located in Portsmouth, Virginia, is responsible for overseeing all Coast Guard operations from the Rocky Mountains to the Arabian Gulf.

For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with Allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability.

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. Naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.

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Pennsylvania National Guard Hosts Lithuania Foreign Minister

By Maj. Travis Mueller, Joint Force Headquarters - Pennsylvania National GuardMarch 25, 2024

FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. -- Lithuania Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis branded the Pennsylvania National Guard's cooperation with Lithuania as "exemplary" during a U.S. visit March 23.

Maj. Gen. James McCormack, the assistant adjutant general of Pennsylvania, and other members of the Pennsylvania National Guard hosted a Lithuanian delegation that included Landsbergis and Audra Plepyte, Lithuanian ambassador to the United States.

The Pennsylvania National Guard and Lithuanian armed forces have been partners for over 30 years as part of the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program. The SPP is guided by State Department foreign policy goals and facilitates military-to-military engagements.

"Gabrielius Landsbergis' visit to Fort Indiantown Gap underscores the strong partnership between the PA National Guard and our SPP partner, Lithuania," said McCormack. "It's an honor to host him, and we value the opportunity to exchange insights and strengthen our alliance further."

McCormack and Maj. Alex Stewart, Pennsylvania's SPP program director, gave the Lithuanian delegation a tour that included Fort Indiantown Gap's Training Support Center, live fire ranges and the Eastern Army National Guard Aviation Training Site at Muir Army Heliport.

"Visits like these are crucial for fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between our nations," said McCormack. "They provide an invaluable opportunity to discuss shared security challenges, enhance interoperability and reaffirm our commitment to the defense of our allies."

Lithuania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said priorities of the partnership include assistance developing command capabilities of the Lithuanian Armed Forces division, training UH-60 Black Hawk crews and developing resilience to cyber threats together with the Regional Cyber Defence Centre in Lithuania.

"The exemplary cooperation of Lithuania and the Pennsylvania National Guard strengthens transatlantic security and our readiness to face threats," said Landsbergis. "We are grateful to the [service members] of the Pennsylvania National Guard for more than 30 years of engagement and a strong relationship based on mutual benefit and respect."

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March 25 USCENTCOM Conducts Humanitarian Airdrops into Gaza

U.S. Central Command

Press Release | March 25, 2024

USCENTCOM

March 25, 2024

Release Number 20240325 - 01

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAMPA, Fla. -- U.S. Central Command conducted an air drop of humanitarian assistance into Northern Gaza on March 25, 2024, at 12:10 p.m. (Gaza time) to provide essential relief to civilians affected by the ongoing conflict.

The joint operation included two C-17 U.S. Air Force aircraft, and U.S. Army Soldiers specialized in aerial delivery of U.S humanitarian assistance supplies.

U.S. C-17s dropped over 46,000 U.S. meals ready to eat (MREs) into Northern Gaza, an area of great need, allowing for civilian access to the critical aid.

The DoD humanitarian airdrops contribute to ongoing U.S. and partner-nation government efforts to alleviate human suffering. These airdrops are part of a sustained effort, and we continue to plan follow-on aerial deliveries.

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March 25, 2024

Transcript

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder Holds an Off-Camera, On-the-Record Press Briefing

MAJOR GENERAL PAT RYDER: So first of all, Secretary Austin will meet with Japan's national security advisor, Akiba Takeo, this afternoon here in the Pentagon to discuss the deepening cooperation between the United States and Japan, and we'll issue a readout on that later today.

Second, as was briefed during Thursday's press briefing, Secretary Austin will host Israeli Minister of Defense Gallant here at the Pentagon tomorrow for a bilateral meeting. Again, the meeting is expected to cover a range of topics, to include efforts to secure the release of all hostages held by Hamas, the need for more humanitarian aid to reach Palestinian civilians and plans to ensure the safety of the more-than one million people sheltering in Rafah, while also ensuring Hamas can no longer pose a threat to Israel.

Finally, I want to flag that acting Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Sasha Baker plans to step down at the end of April. Ms. Amanda Dory, who is a career civil servant and who currently serves as the director of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies at National Defense University will perform the duties of Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Policy when Under Secretary Baker departs. So you can expect to see a statement from Secretary Austin later today, but we're certainly grateful for Ms. Baker's leadership and incredible support to the Department of Defense.

And with that, happy to take your questions. Missy?

Q: Can you provide any comment on the announcement from the Israeli government that they're going to cancel the planned visit of the delegation to discuss the Rafah operation, and talk about what that may mean for Secretary Austin's talks with Gallant tomorrow?

GEN. RYDER: I really can't. I'd refer you to the Israeli government to talk about their visit. Secretary Austin is still planning to meet with Minister Gallant. My understanding is Minister Gallant has meetings today with several other U.S. officials, and then again tomorrow with Secretary Austin.

Q: Can you  I mean, would you disagree with the assessment that the cancellation, because of the U.S. abstention at the Security Council represents an intensification of the friction between the U.S. and Israeli governments prior to the meeting tomorrow?

GEN. RYDER: So, I'm not going to characterize it. I'm just going to focus on the facts as I know them. Secretary Austin had invited Minister Gallant to visit, so this meeting was separate from the meeting that was to occur at the White House. We obviously have a partnership with Israel and continue to communicate on a regular basis to support their inherent right to self-defense, but we also have been communicating very actively about the things I highlighted at the top. And so, we certainly expect those conversations to continue.

Sir?

Q: Thank you. What is  what is the secretary's aim from meeting tomorrow with Gallant? Is he  is he going to deliver clear objections to any operation in Rafah?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, so I  you know, obviously, don't want to get ahead of the meeting. We'll provide a readout, of course, and we do have a podium brief scheduled tomorrow. But you know, it  it's what I spelled out there at the top, Fadi, in terms of talking about a range of issues, to include a discussion about Rafah and potential alternatives as it relates to any type of addressing of Hamas and the issue of Hamas in that  in that area. So again, I don't want to get ahead of the meeting and talk about things that haven't been talked about yet, but again, more to follow.

Q: Yeah, but from the specifics, when you talk about alternatives, is it the position that  this building that a ground invasion of Rafah is not something that you can support, and that's why you're providing alternatives to the Israelis?

GEN. RYDER: Well, a couple things. So, I mean, I think we  you know, the  and you've heard the White House say this. We think that a ground invasion, especially without any type of credible plan, is a mistake, given the large number of people, displaced people that are there at the moment. And so, you know, we've been talking for a while about, there are ways to go about addressing the threat of Hamas while also taking into account civilian safety. A lot of those are from lessons, our own lessons conducting operations in urban environments. So, I would  I would expect the conversations to  to cover those kinds of things, so 

Jeff?

Q: I know this is a sensitive issue. The Houthis have released a picture of a body. They claim it's an American service member. This comes after a  a sailor was  was declared dead from the USS Mason. Is this  is DOD looking into the possibility that this body may be a U.S. service member?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, thanks, Jeff. I'm aware of those reports, you know, from  from press reporting. We're looking into them. I don't have anything to provide on that. I can't corroborate those claims at this point. Certainly, you know, we'll keep you informed if we have anything on that.

Q: Is it possible to rule it out at this point?

GEN. RYDER: What's that?

Q: Is it possible to rule it out at this point and say 

GEN. RYDER: I  I just, I don't have any information on it, so I can't say either way.

Q: Thank you.

GEN. RYDER: Yes?

Q: Thanks, Pat. So it's been reported that one of the things Gallant is coming to discuss with Austin is a  a weapons wish list, that he's basically coming with a list of weapons and equipment the Israelis want fast-tracked, or the option to provide more of. I know you don't want to get ahead of the meeting, but what is Secretary Austin's con-  current thinking about the types of weapons Israel needs, should receive, and the timeline, especially given everything going on with Rafah?

GEN. RYDER: Well, you're right. I don't want to get ahead of the meeting, but broadly speaking, you know, when it  when it comes to our defense relationship with Israel, you know, you can kind of look at it in a couple different ways. One is the support that we've been providing Israel to defend themselves against future terrorist attacks from Hamas, right? And so there  there's that aspect. But we also have a long-standing security cooperation relationship with Israel through things like foreign military sales, foreign military finance to help Israel maintain its qualitative edge when it comes to its deterrence and its combat capabilities. So, you know, certainly, the  those are topics that our two countries have  or that topic is something our two countries have discussed for many years. But again, I don't want to speak for Minister Gallant, what he may or may not bring up in the meeting. Again, we'll have a readout afterwards.

Q: Has the secretary's mind shifted at all in terms of the kinds and amounts of this kind of weaponry that Israel needs, given  the security relationship, obviously, is long-standing, but given, you know, the fact that Israel has been seeming to ignore the U.S. warnings about Rafah, about greater protection of civilians, has the secretary's mindset shifted at all in terms of what they need?

GEN. RYDER: So, the secretary still believes fundamentally in Israel's inherent right to defend themselves, and that we will continue to support them in that regard, and that that support is ironclad. I'll just leave it there.

Liz?

Q: Secretary Austin and Gallant used to talk pretty much daily, and in recent months, they've just been talking a lot less frequently. Are we just not getting readouts, or are they just talking less? And if so, why?

GEN. RYDER: No, I think what you saw was shortly after October 7th, when there was still a lot of activity and a lot of questions in terms of what's next. There was a more frequent drumbeat of phone calls, but Secretary Austin, you know, essentially speaks to the minister on a near-weekly basis, and that's pretty much the standard battle rhythm. You know, he also does that, for example, with Minister Umerov in Ukraine. So it  it's more administrative than anything else. I wouldn't read into that.

Noah?

Q: Could you give us a sense on why it's taking so long to get Derek Chollet to the top job in policy? I mean, we've seen these vacancies pop up in the office for six, seven months now, at this point.

GEN. RYDER: Yes, I really would have to refer you to the Congress to answer that question. Certainly, the sooner that the confirmation can occur, the better. We need to have, in all of our positions that are open, qualified, experienced leaders who can help ensure that the department is carrying out the important work of national security in our department of defense.

Q: I'm wondering if you can kind of give us an update on what the Pentagon sees, like how the Pentagon sees ISIS and the threat of ISIS with kind of the attack in Russia. And kind of is it  it doesn't seem like it's contained to the Middle East at this point. And just if you can kind of give us an update on like where the Pentagon sees the threat at this point.

GEN. RYDER: Yes, so I mean, ISIS, as we've talked about for a while, they still are a threat. You know, I'm not going to characterize that I've seen some press reporting saying, you know, is it a  is a rising threat, growing threat. I would say it's a threat, right, among other terrorist groups. But it's one of those things that you have to stay on top of. Which is, again, you  the United States has been working closely with an international coalition in the Middle East to essentially prevent the spread of ISIS.

But what you saw after the Counter ISIS campaign in Iraq and Syria was some of the  some of the elements of that group move to other parts of the world, right? So, you've got ISIS-K essentially coming out of Central Asia. And, of course, you see ISIS elements in Africa as well. And so, it is definitely something that we continue to monitor from a counterterrorism standpoint. Counterterrorism is part of the national defense strategy. And so, it's something that we just have to keep after and not underestimate their ability to conduct these kinds of attacks.

Q: Are there any plans to ramp up any missions against...?

GEN. RYDER: Nothing specific to announce other than, again, I mean this is  you know, it's a threat that we take seriously.

Q: To what extent does the Pentagon access that the threat from these attacks and ISIS-K has been blamed for the Moscow now, it's been blamed for the attacks in Iran, how much of that is emanating from Afghanistan itself, in terms of any direction, command and control? And how much of this does the Pentagon access is coming from ISIS-K cells or networks in other regions beyond Afghanistan?

GEN. RYDER: Yes, I really can't go too deep into intelligence, Jeff, other than to say, you know, as you heard the White House say over the weekend that we had notified Moscow in advance and Russia in advance about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow. And it had also issued an advisory to Americans to avoid going to any public places. And so, you know again, we're monitoring these things. I just don't want to get into the specifics in terms of where we see these cells other than, again, we recognize there's threat there.

Q: Has there been any change in force posture in any areas where the U.S. has bases? And has there been any requests for U.S. help or a beefing up of security at embassies across, whether it's Central Asia or elsewhere because of this threat from ISIS-K in light of the attack?

GEN. RYDER: Nothing more. Yes, nothing more.

Lara?

Q: Thank you. Just a question on Niger. Can you give us a status update in terms of U.S. troops, our force posture in Niger, are any leaving? And specifically, the (inaudible) will be there any changes to that?

GEN. RYDER: So, as of right now, no changes to force posture in Niger. We still have approximately 1,000 U.S. personnel that are there. You know, as  as you heard us say last week, we're continuing to assess and seek clarification on the statement that the CNSP put out. And so, at this point, you know, there's continuing to be diplomatic discussions, and if anything significant changes, we'll be sure to keep you posted.

Q: Are they still doing the training mission there, or what  what are  exactly are U.S. troops doing in Niger right now?

GEN. RYDER: Right now, they are there and, you know, obviously monitoring for any force protection issues, but they're not conducting any training with Niger. So again, it's (inaudible).

Eric?

Q: Pat, you mentioned the  the warning the U.S. relayed to the Russians in advance of the  of the attack back on March 7th. Are there  are there other communications that continue to  to go back and forth between the U.S. and Russia on other security matters, Ukraine aside, (inaudible) deconfliction line in  in Syria that's been existing? Are there other things, are there other duty to warn notifications that have been made to the Russians or any other communications that still exist despite the tensions?

(CROSSTALK)

GEN. RYDER:  so Eric, I'm not aware of anything in particular. Probably would be a good question for State Department. We obviously maintain regular communications with Russia via the embassy there and  and other channels. But I'm not aware of any other specifics as it relates to  to duty to warn.

And again, the  this is probably something for State Department or DNI to address, in terms of when they identify those threats 

Q: Right, I'm just thinking of other theaters operationally, like the  the deconfliction line in Syria that's been  is it  is that still operational 

(CROSSTALK)

Q:  are there other areas where U.S. and Russian security interests might overlap, where there's communications  routine communications, whether it's at a tactical or operational level?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, I'm going to speculate here a little bit because I  again, I don't have anything to provide specifically, other than, from a policy standpoint, as you highlight, the duty to warn. If we become aware of a potential threat, particularly something that could harm civilians, there is a policy of a duty to warn, and either law enforcement or intelligence services would reach out through the appropriate channels to make sure that information is passed. So that unfortunately is all I've got.

Joseph ?

Q: Just a quick one, a follow-up on Natasha's question, have you guys asked for or received any assurances or clarifications that Israel is using the U.S.  U.S.-provided weapons within international rules  rules of conflict or war?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, so I  I'd have to refer you to State Department, Joseph. Again, that's  I know that's something that Secretary Blinken has been working, and I just don't want to get out over my skis on  on that. But I've  I believe State's doing a briefing this afternoon, so they're going to have more 

Q: And then just another one. In the Red Sea, are there any plans to swap out the Ike with any other carriers or any other strike group?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, so, you know, as I'm sure you can appreciate, we don't discuss timelines when it comes to our assets coming into or out of the theater. So, nothing to announce today, but obviously when, you know, you look big picture when it comes to force management, that's something that we, you know, are always thinking about and working through, on how to sustain our  our footprint.

I'll take a few more. Courtney?

Q: The  assuming this meeting happens on Wednesday at the White House with the Israelis, will Secretary Austin and the Chairman attend? Are they on the  is it on their schedule?

GEN. RYDER: So, Courtney, what I would tell you right now, if a meeting happens, we'll  we'll come back to you. We should have more information, you know, possibly by tomorrow on what that would look like, in terms of DOD participation. I just don't have anything to provide.

Q: So it's not on their schedule at this point? At this point, they're not 

GEN. RYDER: Correct  correct.

Q: Okay. Thanks.

Q: Can I follow up? Do you  could you update us on the planning for the pier causeway, where those ships are and if there's any update to plans regarding the logistics of who's going to deliver aid and who's going to provide security?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah. So right now, my understanding is we're  we're on track to meet the timeline that we previously briefed, right, so  that the pier would be operational within approximately 60 days of departure, if not sooner.

So, can't give you a specific location of the U.S. vessels, where they're at right now, other than to say all indications are that we're on schedule to be in theater on time to start doing that. We're also continuing to work  CENTCOM is continuing to work through the logistics piece.

Again, we'll have much more to provide in the near future. So, I don't want to get into specifics but making progress in terms of the onshore security, as well as making some progress as it relates to the concept of operations, in terms of how aid will be loaded and then taken off the  off the pier into Gaza for distribution.

But can't get ahead of that process right now because those discussions are still ongoing, but we should have much more in the near future here for you.

Okay, I can take one more.

Q: So just trying to clarify the position on the Rafah operation  and you said you heard the White House say this, "we think that a ground invasion, especially without any type of credible plan, is a mistake." Does the Secretary support a ground invasion if the Israelis were to provide a plan that could be satisfying to you, or is it off the table from  from his perspective, his point of view?

GEN. RYDER: Well, look, again, you know, what we're saying is that given the large number of people, refugees that are  that are living  displaced persons that are there at the moment, and considering the humanitarian situation, any type of ground invasion that is similar to the types of operations we saw further north, you know, in Gaza City, in north Gaza, it  it would exacerbate the situation and, you know, be a mistake.

So again, we're going to continue having those conversations and discussing alternatives, again, based on our own experiences, with the understanding that we all share the common goal that Hamas is defeated and can no longer pose a threat to Israelis or Palestinians in the region. Thanks.

Okay, thanks very much, everybody. Appreciate it.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3717930/

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SafeBears guard Teresa Brooks patrols near the UC Berkeley campus. The private security patrols were part of a short-term pilot program paid for by parents of students. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle

Regarding UC Berkeley parents were so worried about crime they hired private security. Is it working? (Crime, SFChronicle.com, March 19): I am a UC Berkeley senior, and I am troubled by the parent-funded private security program, SafeBears. It appears to be more of a symbolic gesture than a substantive solution.

The guards contracted by SafeBears to patrol the perimeter of campus are not vetted by university police and administration, raising questions about accountability, oversight and qualifications.

The involvement of parents in funding SafeBears screams nothing more than privilege. Instead of investing in the existing public safety infrastructure, like BearWalk Escort and Night Shuttles, these parents perpetuate the myth that safety is a commodity that can be purchased and privatized.

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Programs like SafeBears are also part of a large dog-whistling campaign to advocate for increased police presence and surveillance on campus.

SafeBears fails to address the root causes of crime and violence on campus. We should be focusing on systemic issues such as poverty, inequality and lack of access to community resources.

Berkeley will be safer once it is a more livable city for every marginalized community.

Tran Nguyen, Berkeley

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Reverse PG&E actions

Regarding Dont blame PG&E for delays in connecting new homes to power. Heres whats causing it (Letters to the Editor, SFChronicle.com, March 12): PG&E Vice President Jake Zigelman overlooks the larger issues that PG&E has created. The delays in connecting service extend all around PG&Es territory.

Officials in Humboldt County and Fresno County were told to expect delays. A Google project in San Jose plans to connect to a new municipal utility district transmission network and bypass PG&E.

PG&E has decided to devote tens of billions of dollars to gold plating its distribution grid for 1% of its customers by undergrounding its lines rather than choosing a more cost-effective solution.

And that folly has diverted important resources from connecting affordable housing and increasing electric service to replace fossil fuels. Meanwhile, PG&Es rates have risen 30% in the last year.

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The California Public Utilities Commission needs to change direction and order PG&E to embrace better solutions that may not enhance its shareholders bottom line.

Richard McCann, Davis

Rank presidential hopefuls

Regarding Heres how to reform the Electoral College without a constitutional amendment (Letters to the Editor, SFChronicle.com, March 21): The writer makes an interesting argument about how the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact would reform the Electoral College. But the novel proposal, which faces many difficult legal and political hurdles, may never be implemented.

Instead, ranked-choice voting  which Maine implemented in 2020 in a presidential general election for the first time in any state  could lead the way to reforming the Electoral College.

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Thats because ranked-choice voting could prevent spoiler candidates from tipping a presidential election in closely contested states to a candidate who loses the national popular vote but wins the Electoral College vote.

If, for example, ranked-choice voting had existed in Florida for the 2000 presidential general election  and just a small fraction of Ralph Naders 97,488 Florida voters had also ranked Al Gore on their ballots  Gore would have won the election.

Using ranked-choice voting in presidential elections would be a practical way to reform the Electoral College without a constitutional amendment.

Bob Ryan, San Francisco

Sentence too lenient

Regarding Why did an S.F. judge give a 30-day sentence for armed robbery? Heres what case records show (Crime, SFChronicle.com, March 21): Maybe U.S. District Judge Charles Breyers slap-on-the-wrist was fair to a gun-toting Leroy Wise, but what is the message being sent to would-be armed thieves?

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Put a gun to someones head and spend a cozy 30 days out of the cold and rain? Sure, why not carry and use a gun? Just promise to be a good boy after release.

This sentence is still ridiculous even after hearing Wises back story.
March 25, 2024

Release

Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Andrew Winternitz Concludes Trip to Japan for Pacific Islands Defense Dialogue

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Ryder provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke today with Minister of National Defence Judith Collins of New Zealand. The two leaders discussed both countries' shared defense and security priorities in the Indo-Pacific, underscoring the strength of the U.S.-New Zealand partnership.

The two officials discussed the regional security environment, with a focus on the Pacific Islands region, and explored areas for further collaboration and security cooperation. They also spoke about New Zealand's development and implementation of its 2023 Defense Policy and Strategy Statement, the Future Force Design Principles, and the upcoming defense capabilities report. They welcomed the alignment of these strategic documents with the 2022 U.S. National Defense Strategy.

Secretary Austin reaffirmed U.S. support for New Zealand's steadfast leadership in the Pacific Islands region as evidence of its commitment to a shared regional vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3717846/

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March 25, 2024

By Jim Garamone , DOD News

Pentagon Spokesman Details U.S., Israel Meeting, Danger From ISIS

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III will meet with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant tomorrow at the Pentagon to discuss a range of issues, including the release of the hostages Hamas has taken, Israeli operations to defeat Hamas in Gaza and the need to ensure the safety of the more than 1 million people sheltering in Rafah, Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said today.

Although the meeting with Gallant was previously planned, it has higher interest due to the situation on the ground in Gaza. After Hamas launched the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel that killed more than 1,200 people, the terrorists took hostages. While some were released and others were liberated, Hamas still holds around 130 hostages, including some Americans, according to Israeli officials.

Austin and Gallant will discuss Israeli operations in Rafah. United Nations officials said more than 1 million displaced people are in the city.

White House officials have said that a ground invasion of Rafah without a credible plan is a mistake, given the large number of displaced people. U.S. officials have been discussing with the Israelis the "ways to go about addressing the threat of Hamas, while also taking into account civilian safety," Ryder said. "A lot of those are from our own lessons [learned] conducting operations in urban environments. I would expect the conversations to cover those kinds of things."

That Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas is not at issue, Ryder said. "The secretary still believes fundamentally in Israel's inherent right to defend themselves and that we will continue to support them in that regard, and that support is ironclad."

Ryder said the U.S. effort to build a pier to get supplies into Gaza is on track. Army and Navy assets are traveling to the Eastern Mediterranean now. "[U.S. Central Command] is continuing to work through the logistics piece," Ryder said. "I don't want to get into specifics, but [we're] making progress in terms of the onshore security, as well as making some progress as it relates to the concept of operations in terms of how aid will be loaded and then taken off the  off the pier into Gaza for distribution."

Ryder also answered questions about the Islamic State attack in Russia during a press gaggle. The Islamic State attack Saturday at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow killed more than 130 people and injured more than 180. Ryder said the attack highlights that ISIS is still a threat. U.S. officials passed intelligence to Russia about an imminent terror threat in early March, he said.

The Islamic State issued a statement taking credit for the Moscow terror attack.

The United States continues to work with allies and partners to stay on top of the terrorist threats around the world. One example is the U.S.-led Defeat ISIS coalition in the Middle East. "What you saw after the counter-ISIS campaign in Iraq and Syria was some of the elements of that group moved to other parts of the world," Ryder said.

Most notably, the group moved to Afghanistan and formed ISIS-Khorasan and moved to areas in Africa. "It is definitely something that we continue to monitor from a counterterrorism standpoint; counterterrorism is part of the National Defense Strategy," Ryder said. "It's something that we just have to keep after and not underestimate their ability to conduct these kinds of attacks."

Ryder noted that even with relations between the United States and Russia being tense because of President Vladimir Putin's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, the United States shared intelligence with Moscow about the possibility of a terror attack. "You heard the White House say over the weekend that we had notified Moscow in advance  about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow and had also issued an advisory to Americans to avoid going to any public places," he said.

This comes under a "duty to warn" policy that the United States follows, the general said. If the United States learns of an attack like this, there is a "duty to warn, particularly something that could harm civilians," he said. "Either law enforcement or intelligence services would reach out through the appropriate channels to make sure that information is passed."

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Data on interceptions of aircraft completed near the Baltic States' borders on March 18-24, 2024

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence

2024-03-25

International cooperation

On March 18-24 the NATO Air Policing Mission fighter aircraft were scrambled five times to intercept aircraft of the Russian Federation violating flight rules in international airspace over the Baltic Sea.

On March 18 the NATO Baltic Air Policing Mission Detachment aircraft were scrambled to identify and escort one IL-20 flying from Kaliningrad into international airspace and then back. It had no pre-filed flight plan, the onboard transponder was switched off and the crew was not maintaining radio communication with the regional air traffic control centre.

On March 19 the NATO air policing fighter aircraft were scrambled to intercept one IL-76 flying from Kaliningrad to mainland Russia in international airspace. It had no flight a plan, the onboard transponder was on and the crew was maintaining radio communication with the regional air traffic control centre.

On March 19 the NATO fighter jets identified and escorted one IL-20 flying from Kaliningrad and back through international airspace. It had no pre-filed flight plan, the onboard transponder was off, no radio contact.

On March 19 the NATO Air Policing fighter jets were scrambled to intercept one SU-24MR flying in international airspace from Kaliningrad to mainland Russia without the flight plan, its onboard transponder off, not maintaining radio communication.

On March 21 the NATO fighter jets identified and escorted one IL-20. It was flying in international airspace from Kaliningrad to the mainland of the Russian Federation without the flight plan, with its onboard transponder off, not maintaining radio communication.

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Pakistan Welcomes Adoption of the UN Security Council Resolution Demanding Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Pakistan welcomes the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution 2728 today, demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the holy month of Ramadan.

We also welcome the Security Council's call for allowing free flow of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance, and ensuring protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip.

Over the course of past six months, Pakistan has repeatedly expressed its strong and unequivocal condemnation of the indiscriminate use of force by Israel, calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian assistance to the besieged people of Gaza, return of the displaced Palestinians, and ensuring accountability for the crimes being committed by Israel with impunity.

We call for expeditious implementation of the Security Council resolution adopted today, hoping that it will serve as a first step towards ending Israel's brutal onslaught, ensuring a permanent ceasefire, and helping address the prevailing grave humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Pakistan will continue to voice its support for a just, comprehensive and durable solution through the establishment of a secure, viable, contiguous and sovereign State of Palestine on the basis of the pre-June 1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital..



Islamabad

25 March 2024

53/2024

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Statement Released by the DFA Spokesperson

Republic of the Philippines - Department of Foreign Affairs

25 March 2024 -- Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro had a telephone call with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong this morning.

Undersecretary Lazaro expressed the Philippines' strongest protest against the aggressive actions undertaken by the China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia against the rotation and resupply mission undertaken by the Philippines in Ayungin Shoal on 23 March 2024.

The same protest has also been conveyed earlier to the Charge d'affaires, a.i. of the Chinese Embassy, who was summoned by the Department of Foreign Affairs this morning. The Philippine Embassy in Beijing has also lodged the same demarche. END

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Minister Radosaw Sikorski holds talks with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg

Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Republic of Poland

25.03.2024

Minister Sikorski briefed the NATO Secretary General on the details of the violation of Poland's airspace by a Russian cruise missile on 24 March and the procedures activated in this context.

The head of Polish diplomacy stressed that this is another case where actions of Russia, a country which continues its unjustified and brutal aggression against Ukraine, also threaten the security of NATO member states. Also on the agenda were ways to strengthen the security of Polish and allied airspace as well as the forthcoming NATO foreign ministers' meeting, which will focus on preparations for the Washington NATO summit in July.

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Philippines summons China envoy to protest 'aggressive actions' in South China Sea

Chinese water cannon blasts hurt three Filipino crew members and caused damage to a Philippine vessel, Manila says.

By BenarNews Staff 2024.03.25 -- Manila on Monday summoned a Chinese envoy to strongly protest the "aggressive actions" of the China Coast Guard in the South China Sea, following an incident that left three crew members aboard a Philippine supply boat injured.

The Philippines was on Saturday attempting to resupply troops stationed on a ship at Second Thomas Shoal, known locally as Ayungin Shoal, when China's coast guard and maritime militia "harassed, blocked, deployed water cannons, and executed dangerous maneuvers against the routine RoRe [rotation and resupply] mission," officials said.

Chinese water cannon blasts hurt three Filipino crew members and caused "significant damages to the vessel," the Philippine Coast Guard said.

"The Department of Foreign Affairs summoned the Charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy this morning to convey the Philippines' strong protest against the aggressive actions undertaken by the China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia against the rotation and resupply mission undertaken by the Philippines in Ayungin Shoal on 23 March 2024," Ma. Teresita Daza, a spokeswoman for the Department of Foreign Affairs, said in a statement.

China "has no right to be in Ayungin Shoal," she said, a low-tide elevation that lies well within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

"China's continued interference with the Philippines' routine and lawful activities in its own exclusive economic zone is unacceptable," said Daza.

Saturday's incident was the second time this month that Philippine crew members were injured in a confrontation between Chinese and Philippine ships in the disputed South China Sea.

Tense incidents at sea have become more frequent lately, as Chinese ships try to block Philippine ships and boats from delivering supplies to Manila's military outpost there.

The Philippines in 1999 deliberately grounded an old navy ship on the shoal - BRP Sierra Madre - where it maintains a detachment of troops.

Four crew members aboard a military-contracted Philippine ship sustained minor injuries when a water cannon blast from China Coast Guard ships shattered the windshield on the bridge during the incident on March 5, according to Filipino officials.

"The Philippines urges China to take the correct track of abiding by international law and respecting the legitimate rights of other states like the Philippines, and to cease and desist from its continued violation of international law," Daza said, adding the Philippine embassy in Beijing had also been instructed to lodge a protest with China's foreign ministry.

China claims nearly the entire South China Sea, including Second Thomas Shoal that is within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan also have territorial claims to the sea.

A 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague dismissed China's sweeping historical claims to the waterway, but Beijing has refused to acknowledge the ruling.

On Monday, China's embassy in Manila said it had communicated its "strong opposition" to the Philippine government, which it accused of attempting to transport construction materials to the shoal - a claim that Manila has denied.

"The China Coast Guard in response has implemented lawful regulation, interception, and expulsion in a reasonable and professional manner," the embassy said in a statement.

It added that the international arbitration award in 2016 was illegal and therefore "null and void."

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro on Monday urged Beijing to take its claims of sovereignty in the South China Sea to international arbitration.

"If China is not afraid to state its claims to the world, then why don't we arbitrate under international law?" Teodoro told reporters, adding Manila would not budge on its position.

"They are the ones who entered our territory. No country believes [their claims] and they see this as their way to use force, intimidate and bend the Philippines to their ambitions."

Meanwhile, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiadong, who was appointed to the job last week, conveyed some strong words to his Philippine counterpart during a phone call."China once again urges the Philippines to honor its commitments and consensus, stop its maritime abuses and provocations, stop any unilateral actions that may complicate the situation, and earnestly return to the right track of properly handling differences through dialogue and consultation with China," Chen told Ma. Theresa Lazaro, the Philippine undersecretary for foreign affairs, according to a statement issued on Monday by the Chinese foreign ministry.

Washington condemned China's most recent actions as "dangerous" and said they "undermine regional stability but also display a blatant disregard for international law."

"[The] People's Republic of China (PRC) ships' repeated employment of water cannons and reckless blocking maneuvers resulted in injuries to Filipino service members and significant damage to their resupply vessel, rendering it immobile," said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.

Jeoffrey Maitem and Mark Navales reported from Manila.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization.

Updates with comment from Chinese vice foreign minister.

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 March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Wider Europe Briefing: What Ukraine And Moldova Need To Do To Join The EU

By Rikard Jozwiak March 25, 2024

Brief #1: The Next Steps For Ukraine And Moldova

What You Need To Know: Earlier in March, the European Commission sent over the so-called "negotiation framework" for Ukraine and Moldova to European Union member states for approval. The 19-page-document, seen by RFE/RL, covers both countries as they so far are paired in the EU enlargement process and outlines the basic principles of European Union accession talks.

One Ukrainian official described it to me as "very broad," adding that "as of now, it causes no concerns to us as there is nothing particularly good or bad in it." That appears to be a fair description as it is essentially a copy-and-paste of the negotiation framework that the European Commission wrote up for Albania and North Macedonia in 2020.

The big issue now is when the 27 EU member states, via unanimity, will approve the framework. Here Albania and North Macedonia offer a sobering tale. For Tirana and Skopje, it took two years to get the approval, largely as Bulgaria was raising bilateral historic and linguistic disputes with the latter that in fact still aren't fully resolved. So, while the frameworks were amended by EU member states to reflect Sofia's worries and then passed in 2022 as accession negotiations were officially launched, neither North Macedonia nor Albania have to date opened any of the 33 negotiation chapters.

Skopje's inability to include references to Bulgarians as a founding people in its constitution, coupled with a bilateral Greek-Albanian spat over the imprisonment of an ethnic Greek mayor in the southern Albanian town of Himare, has prompted a double veto that so far has meant that neither of the Western Balkan couple has advanced on their respective EU path.

Deep Background: For Ukraine and Moldova, the hope among diplomats in Brussels I have spoken to is that EU member states will give a green light at the end of June. The draft right now doesn't offer any concrete hints of what member states might object to, if anything, but it does give plenty of indications that the enlargement process will be far from smooth sailing.

The paper immediately points out that "by their very nature, the negotiations are an open-ended process whose outcome cannot be guaranteed beforehand" and adds that "the pace of accessions must take into account the union's capacity to absorb new members" -- a perennial discussion that the bloc first must look after its own functioning, especially regarding decision-making in various institutions before additional countries can join.

There are also no surprises in terms of the demand that a new member state must adopt the euro as its national currency but that the decision when that will happen depends on the country fulfilling all necessary economic criteria.

As an example, look at Croatia joining the EU in 2013 but only adopting the currency a decade later. Or take membership into the passport-free Schengen Area. It is clearly stated Ukraine and Moldova will have to adopt all relevant EU laws in the field of home affairs in order to become EU members, but other member states and the European Commission will decide when they are ready for Schengen. Here, you can take Bulgaria and Romania as examples, both having joined the EU in 2007 but only partially joining Schengen at the end of March this year.

Drilling Down

So, what are the problems that tend to slow down the negotiation process? The EU's Copenhagen criteria, which sets down key requirements for membership, states that any new member state must guarantee "respect for and protection of minorities." For many years now, Budapest has been vocal about what it sees as reduced rights for the ethnic Hungarian minority in Ukraine.

That is likely to continue. In a debate held last week in the European Parliament's foreign affairs committee, Hungarian Foreign Ministry State Secretary Peter Sztaray hammered home that the issue of Ukraine's Hungarian minority is not a bilateral issue but "an issue of human rights and security."

In a Hungarian government discussion paper -- seen by RFE/RL and circulated to fellow EU member states at the same time the European Commission was distributing the negotiating framework -- Budapest made clear that it will continue to press the minority issue. "Since 2015 there has been a shift in the policy of Ukraine regarding the rights of national minorities that resulted in narrowing, or in some cases even annulling the rights of national minorities previously guaranteed in the Ukrainian national legislation or in Ukraine's international obligations. We expect the national minority rights of the Hungarian community in Ukraine to be restored to the same level as they were before 2015."

The ethnic Hungarians in Ukraine are essentially demanding three things: restoring the status of the national minority school system; restoring some language rights when dealing with state authorities; and restoring the right for political representation on a regional as well as national level.

Broadly speaking, Budapest fears that more than four subjects in schools could become obligatory in the Ukrainian language. Another concern is the reshaping of administrative units in Ukraine that has reduced the number of Hungarians below the 10 percent threshold to claim language rights. Hungarian officials also want to secure an automatic delegate in the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament.

The issue of minority rights is one of the four remaining conditions set out by the European Commission for Ukraine to complete before proper accession talks can be launched. The main demand was that all of the Council of Europe's Venice Commission recommendations on Ukraine's law on national minorities and on media and education be addressed.

Several EU member states, as well as Ukraine, believe this has already happened. But the European Commission -- and notably the EU Commissioner for Enlargement Oliver Varhelyi, who is Hungarian -- noted in a speech to EU member states earlier in March that these steps haven't yet been fully completed.

According to several Brussels sources I spoke to on background, the European Commission will still monitor implementation of the Ukrainian laws. Another report on these matters by the Venice Commission is due in June. Regardless of what it says, it is to be expected that Budapest will want the negotiation framework to reflect these minority rights concerns.

Brief #2: European Commission: This Is What's Needed For A Bigger EU

What You Need To Know: Without much fanfare, the European Commission on March 20 published its ideas on what reforms the bloc needs to undertake in order to take in more members. Numbering only some 22 pages, it is far from comprehensive. Rather, it gathers some initial thoughts ahead of several upcoming reviews in various policy fields that the commission will undertake later in 2024 and in 2025. Once again, EU enlargement appears to be enjoying some momentum as EU leaders in recent months have decided that membership talks should commence with Bosnia-Herzegovina, Moldova, and Ukraine.

Deep Background: The document starts by tackling the perennial question for Brussels officials and wonks: whether to first add new countries to the club or to start by changing internal EU rules.

"The EU must deepen as it widens. We must start preparing today for the union of tomorrow and use enlargement as a catalyst for progress," the paper states.

Perhaps the most interesting chapter in the text concerns the commission's thoughts on EU governance going forward. Debates have raged for years as to whether the EU needs a treaty to change to accept more members or not. Here, the document appears to come down in favor of the latter by noting that "while the commission has indicated its support [for] treaty change, "if and where it is needed," it believes that the "EU's governance can be swiftly improved by using to the full the potential of the current Treaties."

This is the view held by most EU member states as well, no doubt shaped by the trauma from when Dutch and French voters rejected a new EU constitution in referendums held in 2005, and then Irish voters did the same for a revised treaty a few years later. It's a Pandora's box few want to open again.

The main issue, as always when it comes to the running of the EU, is the question of unanimity. Most decisions are these days taken by a qualified majority (55 percent of member states representing 65 percent of the total EU population), but unanimity remains in crucial areas such as foreign policy, taxation, and, notably, enlargement policy. The paper notes that "in a larger union, unanimity will be even more difficult to reach, with increased risks of decisions being blocked by a single member state."

Drilling Down

So, what can be done without actually rewriting the entire EU rulebook? The European Commission notes that so-called passerelle clauses in the current EU treaty would allow for the shift from unanimity to qualified majority voting (QMV) in all sorts of fields. But for that shift to happen, you need to have unanimity. In other words, a vote of unanimity to end unanimity.

This is a circle that will be hard to square as it is precisely the veto that makes smaller member states as relevant as the bigger ones in practice. And it's via the threat of vetoes that EU member states can "bargain" to get something in other policy fields. Hungary angling for more EU money withheld from it due to rule-of-law concerns while blocking decisions in other fields is a prime example. Why would Budapest -- or anyone else for that matter -- give up such a powerful tool?

The document doesn't quite answer that, although it tries. One is the use of "constructive abstentions" -- meaning that a country doesn't actively say "no" or "yes" but lets the decision pass. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban simply leaving the room at a recent EU summit when leaders decided to open accession talks with Ukraine is a good example. But can that happen on a more regular basis?

Another idea floated is to provide for the possibility for one or several member states to invoke exceptional national interest grounds to continue discussions in order to reach a satisfactory solution on an issue. Yet, this raises the question of how long this could go on and if this really would make the bloc move faster on crucial policy files.

There are also some ideas on how to speed up the enlargement process as well -- perhaps the most cumbersome of all EU policies and beset with veto opportunities. Every time one of the 33 policy chapters -- the bones of the accession process -- is opened, unanimity is required from the 27 EU member states. And so does their closing, as well as interim benchmarks in some of the chapters. That means that for each country's accession process, there are well over 70 opportunities to block the whole process. Albania and especially North Macedonia are perfect examples of EU hopefuls seemingly stuck forever in the waiting room, simply due to various single-country vetoes.

The European Commission proposes doing away with unanimity for opening chapters as well as interim benchmarks but keeping them for closing chapters and for the final decision on the actual accession of a new member to the European Union. So, this would reduce the veto opportunities by more than half.

The bigger question, however, remain if member states wanting to slow down the enlargement process -- either due to bilateral spats with a candidate country or just to squeeze out a more favorable deal in a completely unrelated policy field -- will continue to take advantage of the remaining veto opportunities. In short, reforming the EU and letting new countries join is no cakewalk.

Looking Ahead

Look out for the meeting of EU agriculture ministers in Brussels on March 26. Several EU member states have been rocked by farmers' protests in recent months over rising production costs in the bloc and the influx of cheaper agricultural products from abroad. The ministers will look into ways to channel more EU funds to farmers and cut red tape.

This issue is also high on the agenda as the Polish and Ukrainian governments meet in Warsaw two days later. Polish farmers have for months blocked Ukrainian farm produce from entering the country, and it will be a hot button issue when Poles vote in local elections on April 7.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-moldova- european-union-accession-wider-europe-jozwiak/32876580.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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QA-8, 25 March 2024, Statement of the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Oncu Keceli in Response to a Question Regarding the UN Security Council Resolution No. 2728 (2024)

Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs

We consider the UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the month of Ramadan and humanitarian access to Gaza as a positive step.

We hope that Israel will comply with the requirements of this resolution without delay.

We call on the international community to take a united stand against Israel to end the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and to find a lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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The UK has long called for an immediate humanitarian pause leading to a sustainable ceasefire, as the fastest way to get hostages out and aid in: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Gaza.

25 March 2024

President, I would like to start by offering the UK's sincere condolences for the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall near Moscow. Our deepest sympathy goes to the families of the many victims.

President, the United Kingdom has long been calling for an immediate humanitarian pause leading to a sustainable ceasefire without a return to destruction, fighting and loss of life, as the fastest way to get hostages out and aid in.

That is what this resolution calls for and why the United Kingdom voted yes on this text.

President, Israel continues to reckon with the brutal horror of the October 7 attacks, and innocent hostages continue to be held by Hamas in Gaza. Israel has a right to defend itself and ensure such an attack can never happen again.

We regret that this resolution has not condemned the terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas on the 7th of October. The UK condemns these attacks unequivocally.

This resolution sets out the urgent demand for the unconditional release of all hostages. And we welcome the ongoing diplomatic efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United States to this end.

The intense suffering of innocent Palestinian civilians in Gaza shows no sign of abating and a humanitarian catastrophe is unfolding before our eyes.

The resolution sends a clear and united message on the need for International Humanitarian Law to be upheld, and for aid to be scaled up urgently including the lifting of all barriers impeding its delivery.

President, the Foreign Secretary and Prime Minister have reiterated these messages in our contacts with Prime Minister Netanyahu and other senior Israeli political leaders in recent weeks. We call for this resolution to be implemented immediately.

President, we need to focus on how we chart the way from an immediate humanitarian pause to a lasting, sustainable peace without a return to fighting.

That means the formation of a new Palestinian Government for the West Bank and Gaza, accompanied by an international support package; removing Hamas' capacity to launch attacks against Israel; Hamas no longer being in charge of Gaza; and a political horizon which provides a credible and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution of Israel and Palestine, living side-by-side, in security and peace.

I thank you.

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New Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell is taking over a department at least twice the size of any hes managed and inherits a city experiencing rising crime rates. Lubbock Police Department

Last Friday, Oakland announced the hiring of Floyd Mitchell of Lubbock, Texas, to become its next police chief, the 11th person to hold the title since 2009. Hes taking over a department at least twice the size of any hes managed and inherits a city experiencing year-over-year increases in crime. Here are four suggestions that could help him succeed where all others have failed.

Prioritize community engagement: Youre not from Oakland. The people who live here are a proud, provincial bunch so we are curious about you but also skeptical. Sit down knee-to-knee with every neighborhood crime prevention council and community organization from the Berkeley border to the end of Bancroft Avenue. Walk the citys small business corridors. Show up at Rotary Club events. Respect the Police Commission. You are filling the shoes of a beloved Oaklander who thrived at community engagement. Residents will be genuinely happy to see you  they have waited more than a year for a police chief  and they want to see you succeed. But you only get one chance at a first impression. If Oaklanders dont get to know you in the community, the support will evaporate. And never, ever, skip the annual National Night Out event in August, where residents set up block parties to get to know their local officers. Its basically a citywide holiday in Oakland.

Dont challenge the federal monitor: One of your multiple bosses  and the only one who can shiv you without leaving a fingerprint  is Robert Warshaw, the consultant from hell who ultimately will decide when the Oakland Police Department can exit the 21-year-old negotiated settlement agreement, the list of court-ordered reforms that stem from The Riders, a group of rogue cops accused of falsifying evidence, beating residents and planting drugs, to name a few misdeeds. The agreements list of tasks to complete appears reasonable at first, but you will grow frustrated with Warshaws mystifying analysis (In the end, real change requires real change.) that is often communicated through oblique public reports.

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Unfortunately, the monitor holds ultimate power and answers only to a federal judge who has shown extreme obedience to Warshaw. Youre locked in an oppressive relationship with a man who has already been exonerated from accusations of inappropriate behavior, and you will be required to smile through the tears to keep the house calm. If you ever start to question Warshaws methods, intent or conclusions, dust off your resume  youre cooked. Consult with the city attorney frequently. Face to face. In a public setting. And never in writing.

Learn to wear it on Mondays: Lawlessness, violence and human tragedies will occur over the weekend in Oakland  sometimes all at the same sideshow. On Monday mornings the media, armed with surveillance videos that have long gone viral, will want to know who is responding to the mayhem. For the past year, no one leader in the city has consistently stood at the podium to acknowledge the unsettling levels of violence residents are witnessing and experiencing, and assure us theres a strategy to address it.

The leadership void has caused a simmering unease across the city that leaves residents to wonder, Whos in charge? Youre the new face of public safety in Oakland, and its the police chiefs job to convey the plan with authority and confidence. Congratulations, on Monday mornings youre the guy who gets to step up and wear it.

Advocate for more resources: Your department is understaffed, overworked and underappreciated. Oakland officers regularly lead the nation with the highest rate of serious violent crimes they respond to, making their jobs among the most challenging in U.S. law enforcement. The explosive 21% increase in crime last year demoralized the department, if not the entire city. Your officers put their lives on the line daily in a community where current City Council members have sought to defund the police department by 50%.

The good news is that defund the police  as youll find during your community engagement rounds  is overwhelmingly unpopular with Oakland residents, where 78% polled said they want to maintain or increase police staffing levels. Additionally, Mayor Sheng Thao  who as a council member in 2020 co-authored legislation to cut police funding and voted in 2021 to cut police academies  has done a 180 turn in support of law enforcement, and recently said she would nearly triple the departments staffing to 2,000 officers if not for budget constraints.

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Once you see the duct tape and twine that holds the department together, and the immense workload, you should become your rank-and-files most unapologetic and vocal advocate for additional funds.

Youre not in Lubbock anymore, chief. Youre stepping into one of the most dynamic, complex, beautiful cities in the world and taking on one of its most difficult jobs. The job is 50% operations, 50% communications and 100% politics.
Israel's new aid ban on UNRWA in Gaza 'a wrong move': UN coordinator

25 March 2024 - Israel's ongoing restrictions and its new ban on aid deliveries by the largest United Nations agency on the ground in war-torn Gaza are already having a grave impact, the interim UN coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territory warned.

On the heels of Israel's announcement on Sunday that it would no longer approve aid shipments into northern Gaza by the UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, UN Coordinator Jamie McGoldrick cautioned of current catastrophic food shortages and growing hunger across the enclave while offering swift solutions to averting a looming famine.

"Any interruption to a food supply that's already very fragile is a wrong move," he told UN News.

"We've seen a 70 per cent decrease in people's ability to sustain themselves," he said, emphasizing that the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report issued last week showed an imminent famine and the deterioration of malnutrition rates, in the north in particular.

Situation worsens in the north

Prior to the war, around 700 trucks delivered commercial and humanitarian goods into Gaza every day to serve the needs of the 2.3 million residents, but now 250 aid trucks enter Gaza "on a good day", and in the north, the situation is worse, the UN Coordinator said.

"We are lucky getting 10 to 15 trucks in at any point in time over a two-day period," he said. "We've had conversations with Israel to see if we can find a way to pass through this and to see if we can get the trucks we need every day into Gaza."

Meanwhile, the trickle of aid entering the enclave has been handled by the main humanitarian actors - the World Food Programme (WFP), the non-governmental organisation World Central Kitchen and UNRWA - alongside such groups as the Catholic Relief Services, he said, but much more is needed to satisfy a population growing more hungry by the day.

'We can satisfy all the needs'

Israel's scanning and inspection regime can only handle a daily maximum of 250 trucks, and right now only Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings are operating. Unless more corridors are opened, from Jordan to the Ashdod Port, "we are never going to get to 700 trucks" needed in Gaza daily.

"We can satisfy all the needs that are required there, but that means Israel has to allow those [entry points] to open up, and they also have to allow longer working hours in Kerem Shalom," he said.

But, right now, it's not a situation "we can see is going in the right direction", he said, noting that the IPC famine report indicates that the current supply is not working.

"We are not supplying enough to turn the corner on this," he said. "We have to do more to do that."

Ample aid urgently required

A sufficient volume of aid is needed now, he said.

"I don't particularly care whose organisation brings the food; all I'm looking for is to make sure that we get more food than are currently getting in," he said.

Since his weekly visits to Gaza began in December, including two to the north, he said conditions are "absolutely shocking".

"I saw directly the impact of the lack of food supply on children in the Kamal Adwan Hospital" in northern Gaza, he said of last week's visit, noting that the facility had recorded and reported 20 child deaths due to malnutrition. "I went to the children's ward, and it's absolutely shocking to see what's there."

Every single child had nutritional deficiencies, some with such complications as hepatitis A to intestinal infections, and there were not enough incubators for newborns in need, he said, adding that some young patients are being transferred to the south for care.

"One of the children I saw there, because the mother was so malnourished, the child was born two days earlier and was only about 1.2 kg in weight," he recalled, saying the conditions are clear indications that food insecurity and malnourishment "is starting to hit that population very hard".

'Joint failure' if famine alerts remain unheeded

Politics are the reason why humanitarian workers are not getting the cessation of hostilities required to be able to get more access and more lifesaving aid across the borders, he said.

But, he continued, there has been "ample warning given to everybody who's watching this situation, and everybody's watching it".

The IPC famine report is a "wake-up call" showing that "if we don't do it, it's a flag of our joint responsibility and also a joint failure that we haven't been able to get this done," he stressed.

Threats of a Rafah incursion

As for southern Gaza, where more than 1.5 million displaced Palestinians are sheltering in Rafah, along Egypt's border, he cautioned that "we are living a sort of hand-to-mouth existence."

"In the current context, unless there was a ceasefire, we can't bulk up the support into Gaza the way we need it," he said, noting that Israel's threats of a large-scale military operation in Rafah could force almost one million people to move.

"If there's an incursion, it will break the back of our response," he warned. "We cannot cope with that. There's nowhere in the world you can cope with that number happening that quickly."

Ceasefire is critical now

Ending hostilities now is critical alongside Israel lifting restrictions so enough aid can enter Gaza, he said.

"If military activity stopped, the roads would be free and we can supply very, very fast throughout the south and clearly into the north as well," he said.

"The ceasefire is the most important thing we need right now to get that supply to all those people who we know are really struggling now."

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UN Security Council demands 'immediate ceasefire' in Gaza, ending months-long deadlock

25 March 2024 - The UN Security Council on Monday adopted a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in war-ravaged Gaza during Ramadan and calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

This was the Council's first explicit call for an immediate ceasefire since Israel began a military offensive in the Gaza Strip following last October's brutal attack by Hamas and other Palestinian groups against settlements in southern Israel, in which over 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 taken hostage.

Israel's military operation has since reportedly claimed over 32,000 Palestinian lives, mostly women and children, displaced about 1.7 million and left massive destruction across the enclave.

The 15-member Security Council has failed in its four previous attempts to adopt a resolution on the Gaza crisis, most recently this past Friday, when permanent members China and Russia vetoed a proposal led by the Unted States (another permanent member, along with France and the UK rounding out the so-called 'P-5').

The US, which vetoed three earlier Council texts, abstained today, allowing the measure to pass. Washington's change in position reportedly came after intense weekend negotiations among Council members.

Find out more about what happens when the Security Council is deadlocked

The Council's action comes as Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, on his annual solidarity trip, is visiting the region, where on Saturday, he spoke to reporters from the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza, calling the conditions in the enclave "a moral outrage" and urging an immediate humanitarian ceasefire so Gaza could be "flooded" with desperately needed aid.

Reacting immediately after Monday's vote, the UN chief said on X that the long-awaited resolution must be implemented.

The Council's failure to do so "would be unforgivable", he stated.

Security Council's demands

Resolution 2728 (2024), adopted with 14 votes in favour and one abstention (United States), "demands" an immediate ceasefire for the remainder of Ramadan, respected by all parties and "leading to a lasting sustainable ceasefire".

It also demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and calls for ensuring humanitarian access to address their medical and other humanitarian needs.

The Council further demands that the parties comply with their obligations under international law in relation to all persons they detain.

Protection of civilians

The Security Council also acknowledged the ongoing diplomatic efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United States, aimed at reaching a cessation of hostilities, releasing the hostages and increasing the provision and distribution of humanitarian aid.

In addition, it reiterated its demand that all parties comply with their obligations under international law, and deplored all attacks against civilians and civilian objects, violence and hostilities against civilians and acts of terrorism.

It further recalled that the taking of hostages is prohibited under international law.

By the resolution's provisions, the Council emphasized the "urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance to and reinforce the protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip" and reiterated "its demand for the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale".

Pen holders

Prior to the adoption, elected Council member Mozambique introduced the draft text on behalf of the group of 10 elected members, known as the "E-10".

Pero Afonso, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the country to the UN, said it was essential to end the catastrophic situation in the Gaza Strip, which is a matter of "grave concern to the entire international community" and a clear threat to peace and security.

He said the E-10 group have always supported the call for an immediate ceasefire as a "fundamental" starting point, but the draft resolution also demands the immediate release of all hostages and full humanitarian access to them.

"Given the utmost urgency of the situation, we call on all members to vote in favour of the resolution and work towards a comprehensive ceasefire and a lasting peace in the Middle East," he said.

Alongside Mozambique, the elected members of the Security Council are Algeria, Ecuador, Guyana, Japan, Malta, Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia and Switzerland.

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World News in Brief: 17 million Yemenis need health support, cholera in Somalia, OCHA chief stepping down, Haiti crisis update

25 March 2024 - Conflict in Yemen entered its 10th year on Monday, as UN humanitarians issued a warning that over half the country's populations are in desperate need of aid.

According to the UN health agency (WHO), almost 18 million people need medical assistance and half of that number are children.

Nearly one in two under-fives also suffer from moderate to severe stunting, said WHO, pointing out that this adds up to nearly 2.4 million children.

"It's important to step back and remember that hungry children, disease outbreaks, hospitals shutting down  are not to be normalized," said Dr Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean.

Fighting in Yemen between the internationally recognised government in Aden and mainly Houthi rebels who occupy the capital, Sana'a and other territory, has been accompanied by a significant decline in international support.

Increasingly vulnerable

This has left communities vulnerable to worsening conditions, including climate change.

Last year, natural shocks - particularly heavy rains and flash-flooding - were the main cause of new displacement in Yemen, the UN health agency said.

It noted that some 4.5 million individuals are still internally displaced today, with women and children accounting for about eight in 10 of those affected.

In the last five years, funding for WHO activities in the country has fallen by 45 per cent. This year, the UN agency needs $77 million to provide essential health assistance.

WHO today supports 96 therapeutic feeding centres, enough to help around 30,000 children per year.

It also provides nutrition screening services in more than 270 districts. These centres have achieved 96 per cent cure rates which is well above the international standard.

Deadly cholera infections spreading fast in Somalia, warn UN aid teams

Cholera has killed nine people in the last week across Somalia and more than 50 in recent months, UN aid teams said on Monday.

The alert from UN aid coordination office, OCHA, confirms that the preventable disease is spreading, with increasing numbers of infections reported in Hirshabelle, Puntland and South West states.

The outbreak is expected to escalate when the Gu rains start next month, especially in high-risk districts located along the Shabelle and Juba River basins.

Cases rise in the capital

The Somali capital, Mogadishu, has also seen a spike in cholera cases in the last two weeks while the UN health agency, WHO, reported three times more infections so far in 2024 than in the last three years.

More than six in 10 of the deceased have been children under five in an outbreak that's being driven by high levels of malnutrition, poor access to clean water and toilets along with open defecation.

As part of the ongoing aid response, about 1.4 million cholera vaccine doses have been approved. More than 100 cholera kits have also been prepositioned across the country, with enough supplies to treat 10,500 patients.

UN relief chief stepping down

The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Martin Griffiths, announced on Monday that he is stepping down from the top aid job for health reasons.

He informed the Secretary-General of his decision earlier in the day but he will remain in post until the end of June to ensure a smooth transition, said the Deputy UN Spokesperson, Farhan Haq, briefing correspondents.

Mr. Griffiths said it had been "the privilege of my life" to be in the role of relief chief in a post on X, thanking all partners and supporters for championing those caught up in crises.

"The Secretary-General extends his deep gratitude and appreciation to Mr. Griffiths for his tremendous leadership and service to the United Nations and the humanitarian community in advocating for people affected by crises and mobilizing resources to address their needs", said Mr. Haq.

Mr. Griffiths, who heads the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), took on the job in July 2021, at a time of mounting humanitarian needs and shrinking resources.

"He advocated tirelessly for life-saving aid to reach those most in need and for the resources needed to do so" and has played a "key role" in leading the humanitarian response, negotiating solutions to some of the most intractable crises.

Haiti: Insecurity and violence continues

Violence and insecurity is continuing to disrupt aid operations in the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince said OCHA on Monday, while WHO warned that less than half of health facilities in the capital are functioning at their normal capacity.

The crisis stemming from years of political and economic upheaval has crippled healthcare relief operations and hindered access to the few remaining facilities.

As an example of the volatile environment stemming from the rampant gang activity and human rights abuses which have gripped the capital, Bernard Mevs hospital, which had recently reopened, was forced to suspend its operations again due to insecurity, said Mr. Haq.

Despite the challenges, WHO is supporting the Ministry of Health and local partners with supplies and logistics, including water, sanitation and hygiene and disease surveillance in centres for displaced people.

Hot meals in hard to reach areas

For its part, the World Food Programme's (WFP) Haiti chief, Jean-Martin Bauer, said that yesterday they were able to provide more than 17,500 hot meals to displaced people each day.

"We've also been able to provide food rations to people in very difficult neighbourhoods, including Cite Soleil", he said.

UNICEF and its partners continue to provide psychosocial support to those impacted and humanitarians continue to strongly appeal to all parties to urgently allow unhindered, safe access to people in need.

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Gaza: Security Council passes resolution demanding 'an immediate ceasefire' during Ramadan

25 March 2024 - The UN Security Council on Monday passed a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan, the immediate and unconditional release of hostages and "the urgent need to expand the flow" of aid into Gaza. There were 14 votes in favour with the United States abstaining.

HIGHLIGHTS

The UN Security Council adopts a resolution tabled by its 10 non-permanent members (E-10) demanding a ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan, by a vote of 14 in favour to none against, with one abstention (United States)

tabled by its 10 non-permanent members (E-10) demanding a ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan, by a vote of 14 in favour to none against, with one abstention (United States) Resolution 2728 also calls for the immediate release of hostages and for ensuring humanitarian access to Gaza

The Council rejected a Russia-proposed amendment that would have called for a permanent ceasefire

The US ambassador said her delegation "fully supports" the critical objectives of the draft

Algeria's ambassador says the ceasefire will end "the bloodbath"

"This must be a turning point," says the ambassador for the observer State of Palestine

The draft's lack of condemnation of Hamas is "a disgrace", says Israel's ambassador

For summaries of UN meetings, visit our colleagues at the UN Meetings Coverage in English and French

12:15 PM

This is a first step: Yemen

The representative of Yemen Abdullah Ali Fadhel Al-Saadi, on behalf of the Arab Group, said they valued the votes of the 14 States supporting the resolution.

He said the resolution must be considered as a first step leading to a binding resolution on a permanent ceasefire.

The Arab Group also reaffirms that the efforts to reach an agreement on a ceasefire do not go against the call for freeing all hostages.

He said the group sought immediate compliance with the resolution and categorically rejects the double standard that is prolonging this conflict as Israeli occupation forces continue with their genocidal war, targeting women and children and even adopting a policy of starvation.

He called on the Council to impose strict sanctions on Israeli settlers who are inciting violence against Palestinians, including in Jerusalem.

The group will continue efforts towards an immediate ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid, an end to the forced displacement of Gazans and greater international protection for Palestinians.

Israel must be held accountable for its crimes, he said, and it is also time that the international community accept the State of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations.

11:52 AM

Lack of Hamas condemnation is 'a disgrace': Israel

Gilad Erdan, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Israel, questioned why the Security Council "discriminates" among victims, recalling that it condemned the deadly attack on a concert hall in Moscow on Friday, but failed to condemn the Nova music festival massacre of 7 October.

"Civilians, no matter where they live, deserve to enjoy music in safety and security, and the Security Council should have the moral clarity to condemn such acts of terror equally, without discrimination," he said.

"Sadly, today as well, this Council refused to condemn the 7 October massacre; this is a disgrace," he added.

Mr. Erdan further noted that for the past 18 years, Hamas initiated ceaseless attacks against Israelis, launching "thousands and thousands of indiscriminate rockets and missiles against civilians".

He added that while the resolution failed to condemn Hamas, it did "state something that should have been the driving moral force".

"This resolution denounces the taking of hostages, recalling that it is in violation of international law," he said, underscoring that taking innocent civilians hostage is a war crime.

"When it comes to bringing the hostages home, the Security Council must not settle for words alone, but take action, real action," he said.

11:45 AM

Gaza's ordeal must end now: Palestine

Riyad Mansour, Permanent Observer for the observer State of Palestine, said it had taken six months, with more than 100,000 Palestinians killed and maimed, to finally demand an immediate ceasefire.

The Palestinians in Gaza have shouted, cried, cursed and prayed, defying the odds time and time again. Now, they live with famine, with many buried under the rubble of their own houses.

"Their ordeal must come to an end, and it must come to an immediate end now," he told ambassadors.

He said the rule of international law was being destroyed by Israel's crimes. Instead of implementing a mandatory order from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Israel has doubled down on its actions.

He said Palestinians had been killed if they stayed or left, and now, Israel threatens an invasion of Rafah.

Israel has also continued its incitement against the UN, attacking the UN chief and the UN relief agency, UNRWA. The UN must be defended, he said.

"This outrageous incitement has real-life consequences for UN and humanitarian staff on the ground who are targets of attacks, who are killed, arrested and tortured,", he warned.

It also has real-life consequences for the blocking of UNRWA aid. "It is time for all these Israeli actions to trigger a serious international action," he said.

He welcomed the adoption of the resolution and saluted Arab unity in demanding the ceasefire.

"This must be a turning point; this must lead to saving lives on the ground. This must signal the end of this assault of atrocities against our people," he said, declaring that his entire nation was "being murdered".

11:30 AM

Russia: Council must work towards permanent ceasefire

Mr. Nebenzia, Russian Ambassador and Permanent Representative, said that his country voted in favour of the resolution as it called for an immediate ceasefire, "even if it is limited to the month of Ramadan".

"Unfortunately, what happens after that ends remains unclear since the word 'lasting' could be interpreted in various ways," he said.

"Those who are providing cover for Israel still want to give it a free hand," he added, expressing hope that the wording contained in the resolution "will be used in the interests of peace rather than advancing the inhumane Israeli operation against the Palestinians".

The word "permanent" would be more precise, the ambassador said, voicing his delegation's "disappointment" that Russia's proposal "did not make it through".

"Nevertheless, we believe it is fundamentally important to vote in favour of peace," he said, urging the Security Council to continue to work on achieving a permanent ceasefire.

11:28 AM

Humanitarian pause key, then sustainable peace: UK

United Kingdom Ambassador Barbara Woodward said her country had long been calling for an immediate humanitarian pause leading to a sustainable ceasefire without a return to destruction, fighting and loss of life as the fastest way to get hostages out and aid in.

That is what this resolution calls for and why the UK voted in favour of the text. "We regret that this resolution has not condemned the terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas on 7 October," she said, but it sets out the urgent demand for the unconditional release of all hostages.

Now, the Council must focus on an immediate humanitarian pause leading to a lasting, sustainable peace without a return to fighting.

That means the formation of a new Palestinian Government for the West Bank and Gaza accompanied by an international support package, Ambassador Woodward said, as well as ending Hamas's ability to launch attacks.

There must be a pathway towards a two-State solution with Israel and Palestine, living side-by-side in security and peace.

11:17 AM

Life and death vote: Guyana

Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Guyana, said that after more than five months of a "war of utter terror and destruction", a ceasefire is the difference between life and death for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and others.

"This demand [by the Council] comes at a significant time as Palestinians are observing the holy month of Ramadan," she said, noting continuing deaths in the enclave and a growing number of families left homeless.

Voicing concern over the looming starvation in Gaza, the ambassador also highlighted the disproportionate impact of the war on women and children.

"At the same time, the anguish of the families of the hostages held in Gaza continues to mount with no clear prospect for the return of their loved ones," she said, adding that "Palestinians experience the same anguish, waiting for their relatives who are illegally detained in Israel to come home."

11:14 AM

Too late for some: China

Zhang Jun, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of China to the UN, thanked the E-10 Council members for their efforts on the draft.

Noting that his country's negative vote on the US-led draft resolution last Friday, he stated that a comparison of the two drafts showed the differences.

"The current draft is unequivocal and correct in its direction, demanding an immediate ceasefire, while the previous one was evasive and ambiguous," he said, adding that the present resolution also reflected the general expectations of the international community and enjoyed the collective support of Arab nations.

He said China had forced the US to realise it could not continue obstructing the Council.

"For the lives that have already perished, the Council resolution today comes too late," he said, but for those still living in the Strip, the resolution represents "long awaited hope".

"All harm to civilians must cease immediately" and the offensive must end, he said.

11:01 AM

After 'deafening silence', Council must focus on solutions: France

French Ambassador and Permanent Representative Nicholas de Riviere welcomed the adoption of the resolution, stressing that "it was high time" that the Security Council act.

"The adoption of this resolution demonstrates that the Security Council can still act when all of its members make the necessary effort to discharge their mandate," he said.

"The Security Council's silence on Gaza was becoming deafening, it is high time now for the Council to finally contribute to finding a solution to this crisis," he continued, noting that it is not yet over and that the 15-member body will have to remain mobilised and immediately get to work.

"It will have to, following Ramadan, which finishes in two weeks, [the Council] will have to establish a permanent ceasefire," the ambassador added, stressing also the importance of the two-State solution.

10:55 AM

Resolution must make a difference: Republic of Korea

The Republic of Korea's Ambassador Hwang Joonkook said it was the first ever resolution from the E-10 to be adopted on this Middle East agenda and represents a huge breakthrough.

But, for today's resolution to have concrete significance, it must have a tangible impact in Gaza itself, he said.

"The situation must be different before and after this resolution. This will only be possible when both Israel and Hamas respect and faithfully implement this resolution."

The parties must understand this resolution reflects the consensus of the international community, starting right now with a ceasefire.

10:46 AM

Supporting crucial talks: US

US Ambassador and Permanent Representative Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that in adopting the resolution, the Security Council "spoke out in support" of the ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the Washington, Qatar and Egypt to bring about an immediate and sustainable ceasefire, secure the immediate release of all hostages and help alleviate the tremendous suffering of Palestinian civilians in need in Gaza.

"The United States fully supports these critical objectives," she said.

"In fact, they were the foundation of the resolution we put forward last week - a resolution that Russia and China vetoed."

Emphasizing that her country's support for the objectives "is not simply rhetorical", Ms. Thomas-Greenfield said that the US "is working around the clock to make them real on the ground, through diplomacy".

She urged Council members to be clear that a ceasefire could have come "months ago" had Hamas been ready to release the hostages, accusing the group of throwing roadblocks in the path of peace.

"So today, my ask to the members of this Councilis 'speak out and demand unequivocally that Hamas accepts the deal on the table'," she said.

10:47 AM

Resolution must be implemented: UN chief

Reacting immediately after the vote, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on X that the long-awaited resolution must be implemented.

The Council's failure to do so "would be unforgivable", he stated.

10:40 AM

Algeria says draft will end the 'bloodbath' in Gaza

Algeria's Ambassador Amar Benjama said the draft will put an end to the massacres that have been going on for five months in Gaza.

"The bloodbath has gone far too long," he said. "Finally, the Security Council is responding to the calls of the international community and the Secretary-General."

The draft conveys a clear message to the Palestinian people, he said, "the international community, in its entirety, did not abandon you."

"Adopting today's resolution is only the beginning to meet the aspirations of the Palestinian peopleand to put an end to the bloodbath without any conditions."

10:39 AM

Draft resolution passes, US abstains

The Russian verbal amendment did not pass due to lack of votes.

But, in the substantive vote, there were 14 in favour, with the US abstaining. The resolution therefore has passed.

10:36 AM

The sticking point is the removal of the word "permanent" from an earlier version of the draft. It now calls for an "immediate ceasefire".

Russia proposes amendment

Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said the fact that the word "permanent" in operative paragraph one was replaced with weaker language is "unacceptable".

"We all received instructions for a vote on the text that contained the word 'permanent'" and anything else could be seen as permission for Israel to continue its attacks, he said.

As such, his delegation proposed an oral amendment to return the word "permanent" to the draft.

10:27 AM

Israel and Yemen will be taking part in the meeting together with the observer State of Palestine.

Those who wish to make a statement before the vote are speaking.

Mozambique's Ambassador Pero Afonso is introducing the draft on behalf of the 10 elected members (E-10) of the Council.

He said it was essential to end the catastrophic situation in the Gaza Strip, which is a matter of "grave concern to the entire international community" and a clear threat to peace and security.

There is a mandate under the UN Charter to work towards these key aims, and this is the main motivation for introducing this text.

He said the E-10 group have always supported the call for an immediate ceasefire as a "fundamental" starting point. But, the draft resolution also demands the immediate release of all hostages and full humanitarian access to them.

"Given the utmost urgency of the situation, we call on all members to vote in favour of the resolution and work towards a comprehensive ceasefire and a lasting peace in the Middle East, he said.

10:25 AM

The meeting has finally got underway. Ambassador Yamazaki has led a minute's silence in honour of those who died in the terrorist attack in Moscow on Friday.

10:13 AM

These are unusual scenes going on now in the Chamber. The Russian ambassador is in a large huddle with many other top diplomats, including the Palestinian Observer and the ambassador for Malta. There are clearly negotiations still going on over the draft that's due to be voted on.

Only a few of the ambassadors are already at the table. It looks like we won't see the gavel come down for a while yet.

10:07 AM

Japan holds the presidency of the Security Council for March. Ambassador Kazuyuki Yamazaki will get the meeting underway soon, but delegations are still filing into the Council Chamber, some huddled together in animated discussion.

09:30 AM

Disagreement in the Council has seen several rounds of drafts quashed by one or more of its five veto-wielding permanent members (China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, United States) since the war began in October following the Hamas-led terror attacks on southern Israel.

The current draft that ambassadors will consider around the iconic horseshoe table in the Security Council Chamber this morning is only four operative paragraphs long and was prepared by its non-permanent members.

Three main demands: Ceasefire, return hostages, let aid into Gaza

The resolution is a bare-bones call for a ceasefire during the month of Ramadan, which began on 11 March. It also demands the return of about 130 hostages seized in Israel and still held in Gaza and emphasizes the urgent need to allow ample lifesaving aid to reach a starving population in the besieged enclave.

The demand to end hostilities has so far eluded the Council following the Israeli forces' invasion of Gaza in October after Hamas attacks left almost 1,200 dead and 240 taken hostage.

Since then, Israel's daily bombardment alongside its near total blockade of water, electricity and lifesaving aid has killed more than 32,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the health ministry there, where a recent UN-backed report showed an imminent famine unfolding.

Growing calls to end the war

While a week-long ceasefire in November saw an exchange of hostages held in Gaza for Palestinians detained in Israel, fighting resumed and has only escalated, as the death toll and malnutrition in Gaza continues to soar along with ever louder calls to end the war and rapidly address the stark humanitarian suffering.

Previous rejected drafts contained basically the same provisions as this new one, as did resolutions 2712 and 2720 that were adopted in late 2023, but points of contention persist among the membership while calls continue to demand that the 15-member Council take a stronger stand to end the conflict.

Read our explainer on what happens when the Security Council deadlocks here, and follow our coverage as the meeting unfolds.

What's the new draft resolution calling for?

The Council would demand " an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan respected by all parties leading to a lasting sustainable ceasefire "

respected by all parties " It would also demand " the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages , as well as ensuring humanitarian access to address their medical and other humanitarian needs" and "that the parties comply with their obligations under international law in relation to all persons they detain"

, as well as to address their medical and other humanitarian needs" and "that the parties comply with their obligations under international law in relation to all persons they detain" Other provisions would have the Council emphasize "the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance to and reinforce the protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip.

to and reinforce the protection of civilians in the entire Gaza Strip. In this regard, the draft would have the Council reiterate its demand for the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale, in line with international humanitarian law as well as resolutions 2712 (2023) and 2720 (2023).

Here are HIGHLIGHTS from the Council's meeting on Friday:

A US-proposed draft to end the war in Gaza was vetoed by permanent Council members China and Russia, in a vote of 11 favour to three against (Algeria, China, Russia) and one abstention (Guyana)

Several ambassadors voiced their support for a new draft proposed by the "E-10" group of non-permanent Council members, which calls for an immediate ceasefire

The vetoed draft would have made imperative an immediate and sustained ceasefire in Gaza, with an "urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance" to all civilians and lifting "all barriers" to delivering aid

Council members disagreed over elements of the draft, and some highlighted glaring exclusions despite having raised multiple concerns with the US during negotiations

Ambassadors largely supported swift action to bring food and lifesaving aid at scale into Gaza, where concerns of famine grew as Israel continues to block and slow walk shipments into the besieged enclave

Some Council members called for pursuing the two-State solution to the ongoing conflict

Israel's ambassador was invited to speak, calling the draft's failure to pass and condemn Hamas "a stain that will never be forgotten"

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'We must push for lasting peace in Gaza', UN chief insists as starvation threat nears

25 March 2024 - With "starvation bearing down" on Gaza, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday repeated his call for a sustainable end to the conflict and the release of all remaining hostages amid "unprecedented and ongoing devastation" in the occupied enclave.

"The need is urgent," Mr. Guterres said in Amman, alongside Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safady, as he pledged to keep pushing "for the removal of all obstacles to life-saving aid, for more access and more entry points" into Gaza.

The UN chief's appeal came amid increasingly dire scenes reported by UN humanitarians and other aid partners, particularly in northern governorates, where the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that 27 children have now died from complications linked to severe malnutrition.

"We must face facts. There will be no sustainable humanitarian solution with an ongoing war as bloody as this," the UN chief stressed.

"Let me repeat: nothing justifies the abhorrent October 7 attacks and hostage-taking by Hamas and nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people."

UNRWA shut out

The Secretary-General's appeal for a lasting peace and a humanitarian ceasefire to enable the effective delivery of food, fuel and medicines came as the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, confirmed that it had been barred by the Israeli authorities from transporting assistance to northern Gaza.

At the same time, the UN agency - which is the largest international aid provider in the enclave - reported that basic commodities in northern governorates were now "25 times more expensive than they were before the war", with a 25-kg sack of flour costing more than $400.

Despite the warnings that famine is imminent in Gaza, "there has been no significant change in the volume of supplies entering Gaza or improved access to the north," UNRWA insisted.

It noted that during the first 23 days of March, just 157 aid trucks per day crossed into Gaza, on average. This is "well below the operational capacity of both border crossings and the target of 500 per day", according to UNRWA.

Delays continue to happen at Kerem Shalom crossing from Israel and at Rafah from Egypt, the UN agency noted, adding that the killing of several Palestinian policemen in Israeli airstrikes near the crossings in early February had "severely impacted" the delivery of aid.

Help and hope for millions

Earlier, the UN Secretary-General stressed once again UNRWA's positive impact in millions of people's lives, while on the latest leg of his annual solidarity visit marking the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

"We must strive to keep the one-of-a-kind services that UNRWA provides flowing because that keeps hope flowing," he said after meeting residents at Wihdat Palestine refugee camp, home to some of Jordan's 2.4 million Palestine refugees - the largest number in the region.

Insisting that that the UN agency remained "a lifeline of hope and dignity" for many, Mr. Guterres underscored the "real difference" that its schools and health centres make to the lives of Palestinian refugees of all ages.

Peacebuilding role

In addition to providing education to over 500,000 girls and boys, some two million people receive health care and work opportunities, the UN chief explained, while half a million of the poorest Palestinians also benefit from its assistance. All of these factors contribute to UNWRA's key role in "advancing social cohesion, promoting stability and building peace", he said.

"Imagine if all of this was taken away. It would be cruel and incomprehensible, especially as we honour the 171 women and men of UNRWA who have been killed in Gaza - the largest number of deaths of UN staff in our history."

Across Gaza, meanwhile, conflict continued unabated at the weekend, with Israeli bombardments and airstrikes reported in southern Gaza, including in Rafah, where UNRWA estimates that 1.2 million people now live, "the vast majority in formal and informal shelters".

Veterans' horror

Describing his visit to the Rafah border crossing at the weekend, the UN Secretary-General said that the veteran humanitarians he had met "have never seen anything as horrible" as what has unfolded in Gaza.

"The scale and speed of the death and destruction are on an entirely different level, and now, starvation is bearing down on Palestinians in Gaza," he said.

Insisting that there was "a growing consciousness around the world that all of this must stop", the UN chief said a two-State solution was the only way to ensure a lasting end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

"Israelis must see their legitimate needs for security materialized, and Palestinians must see their legitimate aspirations for a fully independent, viable and sovereign State realized, in line with United Nations resolutions, international law and previous agreements," Mr. Guterres said.

Tedros concern amid new hospital raids

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also expressed deep concern on Monday amid reports that Israeli forces had "besieged and attacked" Al-Amal Hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis on Sunday.

Tedros noted that a Palestinian Red Crescent worker and another individual sheltering at the hospital had been killed.

"Another reported attack on Al-Amal Hospital in Gaza, another situation where patients and health workers are in great jeopardy," Tedros said on X, formerly Twitter. "We appeal for their immediate protection and repeat our call for a ceasefire."

The UN health agency previously said that a WHO team "was not given clearance" to reach the hospital to assess needs nor ensure patient referrals, although it was able to give water and first aid to nine health workers "who walked from Al-Amal to south Gaza".

Media reports on Sunday indicated that Israeli military vehicles reached Al-Amal and Nasser hospitals in Khan Younis. Such raids have been previously justified by the Israel Defense Forces as necessary to search for Hamas fighters.

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UNRWA Situation Report #94 on the situation in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem - All information from 21-23 March 2024, is valid as of 23 March 2024 at 22:30

UNRWA

25 Mar 2024

Key Points

The Gaza Strip

There is very little respite for Palestinians in Gaza, even during the holy month of Ramadan, as the conflict across the Gaza Strip continues unabated. The Israeli Security Forces (ISF) continue military operations across the Gaza Strip including in southern Gaza with airstrikes and bombardment also in Rafah where UNRWA estimates a total of 1.2 million people are now living, the vast majority in formal and informal shelters.

On 22 March, the charity "Christian Aid"[1] reported that food prices in Gaza have dramatically increased as the clock ticks fast towards famine. In northern Gaza basic commodities are 25 times more expensive than they were before the war, a 25kg bag of flour was on sale in northern Gaza for over US$ 400.

On 23 March, Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General (SG) of the United Nations visited Al Arish and Rafah, Egypt. The SG[2] continued to call on the international community to support UNRWA, that he defined as the "backbone of the humanitarian aid inside Gaza."

On 21 March, WHO reported[3] that hospitals in Rafah were overwhelmed and struggling to keep up with the needs. Out of 15 hospitals in the south of Gaza (including MOH, NGO, and field hospitals), only two field hospitals were fully functional; five were non-functional and two operating at minimal functionality. The same report stated that across Gaza only one in three of all hospitals in Gaza were partially functioning and that there had been up to 410 reports of attacks on health facilities. Malnutrition rates continue to increase, given extreme levels of food insecurity and disease outbreaks. WHO reports that a total of 27 children have died in northern Gaza due to complications linked to severe malnutrition.

On 18 March, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) concluded that up to 1.1 million people in Gaza are facing catastrophic levels of food insecurity. The IPC also projected a worsening of malnutrition rates unless aid increases and reaches the most vulnerable and hard to reach populations.[4]

Following the announcement that famine is imminent there has been no significant change in the volume of supplies entering Gaza or improved access to the north. The first 23 days of March saw an average of 157 aid trucks per day crossing into the Gaza Strip. This remains well below the operational capacity of both border crossings and the target of 500 per day, with challenges at both Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) and Rafah. Security to manage the crossings has been severely impacted due to the killing of several Palestinian policemen in Israeli airstrikes near the crossings in early February.

Israeli authorities continue to reject urgent UNRWA food convoys to northern Gaza. Since 21 March, UNRWA has submitted daily requests to the Israeli authorities, all of which have been denied with no reason given. A fourth request, submitted on 24 March, was also denied.

On 24 March, Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA Commissioner-General, confirmed[5] that Israeli Authorities informed the UN that they will no longer approve any UNRWA food convoys to northern Gaza.

UNRWA is the largest humanitarian organization in Gaza with over 1.8 million people, or 85 per cent of the population, reached with flour since 7 October. In addition to flour, nearly 600,000[6] people have received emergency food parcels. UNRWA continues to provide storage and distribution of other agencies' food commodities.

As of 23 March, the total number of UNRWA colleagues killed since the beginning of hostilities is 171, an increase of three.

As of 23 March, up to 1.7 million* people (over 75 per cent of the population) ** have been displaced across the Gaza Strip, the majority multiple times.*** Families are forced to move repeatedly in search of safety. Following intense Israeli bombardments and fighting in Khan Younis and the Middle Area in recent weeks, a significant number of displaced people have moved further south.

*This includes 1 million individuals residing in or near emergency shelters or informal shelters. As of 12 October, approximately 160,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) were recorded in UNRWA shelters in Northern Gaza and Gaza City governorates. UNRWA currently estimates that the population of Northern Gaza and Gaza City governorates is up to 250,000 people. The ability of UNRWA to provide humanitarian support and updated data in these areas has been severely restricted. The ongoing hostilities, evacuation orders issued by ISF, and the constant need for safer locations have resulted in people being displaced multiple times.

**UNRWA reported on 15 January in Situation Report 64 that up to 1.9 million IDPs were either residing in 154 UNRWA shelters or near these shelters. Due to the continued escalation of fighting and evacuation orders, some households have moved away from the shelters where they were initially registered.

*** There are instances where the same IDPs are registered in multiple shelters due to the fluid movement of populations; hereafter, estimates are used for these shelters. UNRWA plans to conduct a more accurate count of IDPs in shelters, including informal shelters, as soon as the security situation allows.

[1] Food prices skyrocket as Gaza on the brink of famine - occupied Palestinian territory | ReliefWeb

[2] Secretary-General's press encounter in Al Arish, Egypt - occupied Palestinian territory | ReliefWeb

[3] oPt Emergency Situation Update 25 (as of 12 March 2024 at 16:00) - occupied Palestinian territory | ReliefWeb

[4] IPC Report: GAZA STRIP: Famine is imminent as 1.1 million people, half of Gaza, experience catastrophic food insecurity

[5] Philippe Lazzarini on X: Gaza: as of today, @UNRWA, the main lifeline for #Palestine Refugees, is denied from providing lifesaving assistance to northern Gaza. Despite the tragedy unfolding under our watch, the Israeli Authorities informed the UN that they will no longer approve any @UNRWA food... https://t.co/lfp9xRQuh1" / X (twitter.com)

[6] UNRWA and other UN parcels distributed by UNRWA

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Security Council Demands Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza for Month of Ramadan, Adopting Resolution 2728 (2024) with 14 Members Voting in Favour, United States Abstaining

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

9586th Meeting (AM)

SC/15641

25 March 2024

After 171 days of war in Gaza, the Security Council today adopted a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan respected by all parties, leading to a lasting sustainable ceasefire, while many speakers underscored that this is only the first step towards a permanent ceasefire.

Introducing the draft on behalf of the 10 elected Council members, the representative of Mozambique stressed the need to end the catastrophe in Gaza, which is "a clear threat to international peace and security". The Council has been consistently unanimous in its agreement on the parties' obligations to respect international law. While the adopted text is an important step the Council can build upon to address the situation in Gaza, he emphasized that it is essential to work towards a comprehensive ceasefire and a lasting peace in the region.

The speaker for the Russian Federation said that the fact his delegation learned of a proposal to replace the word "permanent"  in relation to a ceasefire in operative paragraph 1  with weaker wording approximately an hour before today's meeting was "unacceptable". Also noting that the remaining text is too subject to interpretation, he said this could allow Israel to resume military operations in Gaza at any moment following the expiry of the ceasefire that will hopefully be established today. He, therefore, proposed an oral amendment to return the word "permanent" to operative paragraph 1.

By a vote of 3 in favour (Algeria, China, Russian Federation) to 1 against (United States), with 11 abstentions, the Council rejected the amendment, owing to the failure to obtain the required number of votes.

The Council then adopted the resolution 2728 (2024) (to be issued as document S/RES/2728(2024)) by a vote of 14 in favour to none against, with one abstention (United States). By its terms, it demanded an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan respected by all parties, leading to a lasting sustainable ceasefire. It also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as ensuring humanitarian access to address their medical and other humanitarian needs.

By other terms, the Council emphasized the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance and reinforce the protection of civilians in Gaza. It also demanded the lifting of all barriers to humanitarian assistance at scale, in line with international humanitarian law as well as Council resolutions 2712 (2023) and 2720 (2023).

"Finally, the Security Council is shouldering its responsibility," said Algeria's delegate, welcoming the adoption of this long-awaited resolution. "This bloodbath has continued for far too long," he observed, adding that the adoption of today's resolution is only the beginning of meeting the aspirations of the Palestinian people. "The international community [] did not abandon you, it feels your suffering," he said, stressing that it is the Council's responsibility to ensure the implementation of the text's provisions.

The United States's representative said that while her delegation did not agree with everything in the resolution  and therefore was unable to vote in favour  it supports "some of the critical objectives in this non-binding resolution" and that the Council must make clear that the release of all hostages accompany any ceasefire.

"Today, this Council spoke out in support of the ongoing diplomatic efforts led by [my country], Qatar and Egypt" to bring about an immediate and sustainable ceasefire, secure the immediate release of all hostages and help alleviate the tremendous suffering of Palestinian civilians in Gaza," she said. Washington, D.C., fully supports these critical objectives, which was the foundation of the resolution it recently put forward that the Russian Federation and China vetoed. Underscoring that a ceasefire "could have come about months ago" if Hamas had been willing to release the hostages, she called on Member States to demand unequivocally that "Hamas accepts the deal on the table".

France's delegate said it was "high time" for the Council to establish a ceasefire, demand the release of hostages and call for comprehensive humanitarian assistance. "The Security Council's silence on Gaza was becoming deafening," he said. Noting that today's adoption demonstrates that the Council can still act when its members make the necessary effort to discharge the organ's mandate, he observed: Now, the Council must contribute to solving this crisis  which is not over  and, following Ramadan, the organ will have to establish a permanent ceasefire, work towards recovery and stabilization in Gaza and get a political process back on track to effect a two-State solution.

In the same vein, Guyana's delegate welcomed that the Council has "finally" been able to adopt a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire  albeit for the month of Ramadan. The reality faced by the population of Gaza has worsened daily since 7 October as the occupying Power continues its atrocities and, today, the Council has chosen to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people. "It is long overdue, but it is still the right thing to have done," she observed. However, this is just the beginning and "the task before us now" is to secure full compliance with the texts and preceding resolutions 2712 (2023) and 2720 (2023). Adding that Ramadan will end in 15 days, she called on the Council  and those with influence over the parties  to immediately redouble efforts to effect a lasting, sustainable ceasefire, secure the release of hostages and massively scale up humanitarian assistance.

Underlining the need to ensure the immediate and unconditional implementation of the resolution, the representatives of Malta and Ecuador noted the diplomatic efforts of Egypt, Qatar and the United States to reach an agreement between the parties to the conflict.

The speaker for the Republic of Korea pointed out that today's resolution was the first-ever adopted text introduced by elected Council members on a regional agenda item. To have significance beyond Council politics, it must have a tangible impact in Gaza by saving the lives of civilians and easing the humanitarian crisis. "The situation on the ground in Gaza must be different before and after this resolution," he stressed. This will only be possible when both Israel and Hamas respect and implement today's resolution, which  while not explicitly coercive under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations  reflects the international community's consensus.

Slovenia's delegate said that the resolution's adoption "signals a day that will help silence the guns, stop the killing, free the hostages, () and clear the sky over Gaza". The Council showed that it can find "unity for peace". However, today's resolution is just the beginning and "we will need more of this unity for Gaza as well as for many other conflicts," he added.

"This vote should mark a return to greater humanity in the Middle East conflict," said his counterpart from Switzerland, noting that it demonstrates the weight that elected members can have when the Council's blockages disrupt the fulfilment of its mandate. "An immediate ceasefire is a priority step, but it is only the first step, given the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza," she said. For the resolution to be effectively implemented, the immediate ceasefire must lead without delay to a durable, sustainable ceasefire. Similarly, given the catastrophic humanitarian consequences that a large-scale operation in Rafah would have on the civilian population and humanitarian operations, such an operation must be avoided, she asserted.

The fighting, the killing and the collective punishment must stop, stated the speaker for Sierra Leone, recognizing the collective struggle of Palestinians. He underscored that the parties to the conflict are obliged to respect the Council's demand and urged States with influence to apply necessary pressure on the parties to implement this resolution. Given that half of the population in Gaza is facing acute food shortages, with an immediate risk of famine, the emphasis on the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance to reinforce the protection of civilians in Gaza is "most significant", he stressed.

The representative of Japan, Council President for March and one of the co-penholders of today's resolution, welcomed that the Council adopted a text proposed by its elected members. He also expressed support for ongoing diplomatic efforts  particularly the "four-party talks"  towards a ceasefire in connection with the release of all remaining hostages. Such a ceasefire can pave the path towards sustainable peace and stability in the region, he added.

The speaker for the United Kingdom said that her country has long called for an immediate humanitarian pause leading to a sustainable ceasefire as the fastest way to get hostages out and aid in. "This is what this resolution calls for, and why [London] voted yes on this text," she stated, nevertheless expressing regret that the text did not condemn the terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas on 7 October. Calling for the resolution's immediate implementation, she urged the formation of a new Palestinian Government for the West Bank and Gaza, accompanied by an international support package; the removal of Hamas' capacity to launch attacks against Israel and its overseeing of Gaza; and the establishment of a political horizon providing a credible, irreversible path towards a two-State solution.

China's delegate, recalling the resolution proposed by the United States on 22 March that his country, the Russian Federation and Algeria voted against, said the current text is "unequivocal and correct" in its demand for an immediate ceasefire while the previous one was "evasive and ambiguous". The current draft also reflects the international community's general expectations and enjoys the collective support of Arab States, while those countries jointly rejected the previous one. After repeatedly vetoing Council action, the United States finally decided to stop obstructing the organ's demand for an immediate ceasefire. And, while that country still tries to find excuses and make accusations against China, the "eyes of the international community are open and discerning". While "today's resolution comes too late", he said that it could still "bring long-awaited hope" if it is fully implemented.

For the first time, the Council is demanding the observance of an immediate ceasefire, even if limited for the month of Ramadan, noted the speaker for the Russian Federation. "Unfortunately, what happens after that ends remains unclear," he cautioned, noting that the word "lasting" could be interpreted in "various different ways". "We want to believe that this wording will be used in the interest of peace rather than advancing the inhumane Israeli operation against the Palestinians," he stressed, noting the wording "permanent" would be more precise. While it is fundamental to vote in favour of peace, the Council must continue to work towards achieving a permanent ceasefire.

He further pointed out that the vote on the amendment tabled by his delegation uncovered who truly wants to end  rather than suspend  the inhumane Israeli operation. Also, what took place today is a response to those who criticize the veto power of the permanent members  if the Russian Federation and China had not used it on 22 March, "we could have ended up with a very harmful text that would have given Israel a license to continue its actions against the Palestinians, including in Rafah." He also condemned international terrorism, including the 7 October Hamas attack and the recent terrorist attack in Moscow, which took 143 "entirely innocent lives".

The representative of Yemen, speaking on behalf of the Arab Group, stated: "We should consider this resolution as a first step, leading to a binding resolution that stipulates the immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip to compel Israel to immediately and without any preconditions cease the war." He underlined the need to ensure that the Council  which has been the hostage of political calculations and narrow interests  is shouldering its legal and moral responsibilities. While the adoption of today's text comes as a response to Palestinian victims, it is vital to focus not just on a temporary ceasefire but on reaching a comprehensive, final ceasefire to allow the delivery of all humanitarian assistance to Gaza and to put an end to the forceful displacement of Palestinians.

"This resolution reaffirms that Israeli occupation forces do not have free reign in perpetrating massacres against women and children," he continued, warning that Israel's plans to launch a ground offensive against Rafah "will cause an unacceptable humanitarian catastrophe". Stressing that Israel must be held accountable for its crimes, he urged the imposition of strict sanctions on settlers in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and on those who are inciting violence or perpetrating acts of violence against Palestinians.

The speaker for Israel, while noting that the Council was quick to condemn the recent terror attack in Moscow, pointed out that the organ still refuses to condemn "the most widespread and barbaric massacre suffered by the Jewish people since the Holocaust". Asking why the Council discriminates between Russians murdered at a concert and Israelis murdered at a music festival, he said: "Hamas has converted every inch of Gaza into a terror war machine right under the UN's nose  maybe with the help of some of the UN's agencies, like UNRWA." Turning to today's resolution, he said that  while the text denounces the taking of hostages  the Council has not taken a single step towards this end apart from symbolic words. He also pointed out that, so long as Hamas refuses to release the hostages as a result of diplomatic efforts, there is no way to secure their return other than through a military operation.

Thus, the Council's demand for a ceasefire  without conditioning such a measure on the release of hostages  undermines efforts to secure their release, he stressed. Stating that all Council members "should have voted against this shameful resolution", he suggested an alternative text that the Council should have adopted "if it wasn't so biased against Israel". Such a resolution would have had the Council condemn all human rights abuses and violations of international law by the terrorist group; demand that the group disarm, demobilize and immediately cease all hostilities; and demand the immediate release of all those who remain in captivity. Pointing out that Israel did not draft such a text  rather, the Council adopted it 10 years ago when Boko Haram kidnapped schoolgirls in Nigeria  he asked why the Council can call on Boko Haram to lay down their arms but cannot demand the same of murderous Hamas terrorists. Answering, he said: "To this Council, Israeli blood is cheap."

The observer for the State of Palestine said: "It has taken 6 months, over 100,000 Palestinians killed and maimed, 2 million displaced, and famine for this Council to finally demand an immediate ceasefire." Today's adoption is "a vote for humanity and life to prevail". The Palestinians in Gaza pleaded and appealed, shouted, cried, cursed, prayed, and yet, continue to face death, destruction, deprivation, disease and famine. They are being killed in their homes, in the streets, hospitals, UN shelters and tents. "Their ordeal must come to an immediate end now," he declared, adding that, "there is no home sheltering them, no table to gather around and no food to eat". While such atrocities are being committed in broad daylight against defenceless civilians, Palestinian families cannot mourn or heal.

There can be no justification for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, he continued. Accepting any justification for such crimes is "renouncing our humanity and destroying the rule of international law beyond repair". The International Court of Justice ordered Israel to undertake immediate measures in relation to its mass and indiscriminate killings of Palestinians. Instead of implementing this order, Israel has doubled down in the commission of its crimes. By using starvation as a weapon of war, it is responsible for the famine under way in Gaza. Further, Israel attacked civilians in the very places it asked them to hide. "It killed them if they stayed and killed them if they left." Now it continues to threaten a ground operation in Rafah where it has pushed and confined Palestinians at the very edge of the Gaza Strip in yet another attempt to forcibly displace them. Despite its atrocities, Israel has been afforded impunity as countries continue to treat it as an ally, he pointed out.

Now that this Council has finally called for a ceasefire, all forces should ensure it is enforced, he asserted, adding: "This must be a turning point, this must lead to saving lives on the ground, this must signal an end of these atrocities against the Palestinians  a nation is being murdered, [] disposed [and] displaced for decades now  but never at this scale since the Nakba, never this openly". However, he said that even if the ceasefire happened now and the siege was lifted, "it would take generations to deal with the trauma and devastation".

At the outset of the meeting, the Council observed a minute of silence for the victims of the 22 March terrorist attack in Moscow.

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After Months of Deadlock, UN Security Council Demands Gaza Cease-Fire

By VOA News March 25, 2024

The U.N. Security Council broke months of deadlock Monday and adopted a resolution demanding an "immediate" cease-fire in Gaza.

"This must be a turning point. This must lead to saving lives on the ground," an emotional Palestinian U.N. envoy, Riyad Mansour, told the council. "This must signal the end of this assault of atrocities against our people."

The resolution "demands" an immediate cease-fire for the month of Ramadan, which is half over, "leading to a lasting sustainable cease-fire." It also demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, the lifting of all barriers to the provision of more humanitarian aid, and the protection of civilians in Gaza.

The text, put forward by the 10 elected members of the 15-nation council, was adopted in a vote of 14 in favor with the United States abstaining, allowing the measure to pass. This was the eighth time the council attempted to agree on a cease-fire resolution, and it was greeted with applause in the packed council chamber.

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Washington abstained because, while some of their proposals were taken into account, the text did not include a condemnation of Hamas  a major U.S. demand throughout months of negotiations on previous failed cease-fire resolution attempts.

"However, as I said before, we fully support some of the critical objectives in this non-binding resolution. And we believe it was important for the Council to speak out and make clear that any cease-fire must come with the release of all hostages," she said.

U.N. Security Council resolutions are international law, so it was not immediately clear why she believes it is not binding. Other council members reiterated that council decisions are binding and mandatory.

In Washington, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that "nothing, nothing has changed about our policy. Nothing."

Israel's envoy said the resolution is "shameful" because it does not condition the cease-fire on the release of hostages held by Hamas.

"It should be very clear that as long as Hamas refuses to release the hostages in the diplomatic channels, there is no other way to secure their return than through a military operation," Gilad Erdan, Israel's U.N. representative, said.

The 10 elected council members said in a joint statement to reporters after the vote that they hope it will be implemented by all parties and will help ease the suffering of the population in Gaza.

Monday's adoption comes after Russia and China vetoed the council's last effort at a cease-fire Friday, which the United States drafted, and amid relentless calls for one from U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres who says starvation is "bearing down on Palestinians."

In a post on social media platform X, Guterres said the resolution must be implemented, "Failure would be unforgivable."

Speaking during a visit to Jordan on Monday, Guterres said the United Nations will keep pushing for more humanitarian access and entry points for aid, and he called for Israel not to institute any limitations or obstacles to aid deliveries.

International humanitarian groups have complained of a lack of access to get aid to Palestinian civilians, citing materials being rejected by Israeli inspectors, convoys being held up by Israel and a lack of access inside of Gaza because of the ongoing fighting.

Speaking specifically about the situation in northern Gaza, Guterres said, "it is absolutely essential to have a massive supply of humanitarian aid now."

On Sunday, the head of the U.N. agency that assists Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, said he had been informed by Israeli authorities that they would no longer allow UNRWA food convoys to northern Gaza, where famine is looming.

On X, COGAT, the Israeli agency that oversees aid to Gaza, said, "We will continue working with agencies and organizations that are not involved in terror to facilitate humanitarian aid to the people who need it." Israel has officially accused a dozen UNRWA staff members of involvement in the October 7 terror attacks inside Israel. In the media, they have accused scores more. The U.N. fired the staffers and has launched two investigations.

Guterres' spokesperson told reporters Monday that the secretary-general calls for the decision against UNRWA to be revoked immediately, noting Israel is obligated to facilitate the rapid and unimpeded passage of aid into and across Gaza.

Military talks in Washington

Meanwhile, there was no halt in the fighting. Israel's military reported conducting more operations around the Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, as well as ground fighting and airstrikes in central Gaza.

This week also brings talks in Washington, with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expected for meetings at the Pentagon on Tuesday. Other senior Israeli officials were set for separate meetings at the White House, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cancelled their trip after the U.S. did not block the Gaza cease-fire proposal.

"We are very disappointed that they will not be coming to Washington, D.C. to allow us to have a fulsome conversation with them about viable alternatives to going in on the ground in Rafah," Kirby told reporters at the White House.

The United States has made it clear it will not support an Israeli attack on Rafah, near the Gaza-Egypt border, without a plan to protect civilians there. Israel has said it has a plan but has not publicly said where the Palestinians sheltering there would be relocated.

More than 1.2 million Palestinians have fled there on orders from Israeli forces who told them to leave their homes in northern Gaza as Israeli troops advanced there in the earlier stages of the war.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has contended that "we have no way to defeat Hamas without getting into Rafah and eliminating the battalions that are left there."

The Israeli leader told U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a Friday meeting in Israel, "I hope to do that with the support of the United States, but if we need to, we will do it alone."

The war started with the October 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people and led to the capture of about 250 hostages. More than 100 were released in November during a temporary cease-fire. About 100 are still believed to be alive, another 30 are believed dead but still held in Gaza. The health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip says more than 32,200 people have been killed during Israel's counteroffensive. The total includes Hamas fighters and civilians, with the ministry saying two-thirds of the dead are women and children.

VOA U.N. Correspondent Margaret Besheer and White House Correspondent Anita Powell contributed to this report. Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.

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March 26, 2024

Transcript

Senior Defense Official Holds A Background Briefing On The Situation In Israel And Gaza

Senior Defense Official

STAFF: Good afternoon. Thanks very much for joining us today to discuss the situation in Israel, Gaza and today's bilateral meeting with the Israeli Defense Minister.

As a reminder, today's call is on background, attributable to "a senior defense official." Not for reporting, but for your information only, our briefer today is (inaudible).

Please note, I will call on reporters. We'll try to get to as many of you as I can in the time we have. And before we begin, I'd ask that you please keep your phones on mute unless you're asking a question.

And with that, I will turn it over to our senior defense official for opening comments.

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: Thank you, General Ryder. And thanks, everybody, for joining this call.

So Secretary Austin hosted Minister Gallant and his delegation at the Pentagon today. It's his first opportunity to host the minister in his current role, but they know each other well. Secretary Austin has visited Israel twice, and they have spoken on the phone some 40 times, most of those after October 7th. So it's a relationship that has become close and friendly and strongly consistent with the historic ties of friendship between the United States and Israel.

The secretary made clear throughout the conversation that Israel's long-term security remains a core U.S. interest. He said that we share the view that Hamas must be defeated, and that the attacks of October 7th can never be repeated. He spoke about his hopes that negotiations will soon produce the release of all hostages. The hostages should be released in any event, but that those negotiations will produce success, and recommitted to ensure that Israel always has what it needs to defend itself.

One of the important subjects that the secretary and the minister spoke about today was Rafah and Gaza. The secretary expressed the view that Hamas' remaining battalions in Rafah must be dismantled, that that's a legitimate goal that we share.

The question that has been on the table and has been discussed already between our governments in many channels is how best to go about that operation. And in that regard, the secretary stressed that the United States and Israel have both a moral imperative and a shared strategic interest in safeguarding civilians, innocents who are noncombatants and need to be protected. Obviously, there have been far too many civilians already, ci-  civilian casualties in  in Gaza.

In Rafah, the secretary expressed our goal to help Israel find an alternative to a full-scale, and perhaps a premature military operation that could endanger the over 1 million civilians that are sheltering in Rafah. And to do that, there's a requirement to ensure that those civilians can depart, can do so safely and can have their humanitarian needs met as they make their way to other parts of Gaza.

On the broader challenge of the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the secretary took note of the really dire conditions throughout Gaza. He urged Minister Gallant, as he has on many of their phone calls, to continue to diversify and scale up aid entry points into Gaza and to work with all the necessary international partners to address the problem of international aid distribution inside Gaza, and these are efforts that the secretary and the minister have been speaking about and working together on, really, for many weeks, so this was a continuation of that dialogue.

As you all know, the U.S. military is undertaking to establish a temporary maritime corridor for humanitarian assistance, and that is in process, and we expect it to be operational within the coming weeks. That's a very important component of the broader humanitarian effort, or effort to respond to the humanitarian needs in Gaza. It's not, of course, designed as an end in itself, but as an accelerant for additional aid through land crossings, through commercial solutions that might succeed it in the maritime space and through all other international efforts to increase aid delivery and distribution, to include the airdrops that we are also involved in.

So the secretary and the minister were able to discuss all of those issues and other important regional security matters, as well as to reaffirm the strong commitment of both countries to each other, to each other's security and to our common interests and common values.

So with that, General, I think I'll pause, and be happy to take some questions.

STAFF: Thank you, sir. First question will go to Associated Press, Lita Baldor.

QUESTION: Hi. Thanks so much for doing this. Two quick questions. First, can you give us a sense of what Minister Gallant's response was to the secretary talking about alternatives to the Rafah wholesale ground invasion? And can you say whether or not there was any discussion of the U.S. either limiting or conditioning any weapons to Israel based on the humanit-  ongoing humanitarian efforts? Thank you.

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: So I think I will allow the Israeli delegation to speak for themselves and what the minister addressed, but let me speak to the discussion they had on the alternative options that could be applied to an operation against Hamas in Rafah.

So to address that question, let me just start by describing, you know, what makes Rafah unique. First of all, as I mentioned, there's more than 1 million people sheltering in Rafah who have evacuated from other areas of Gaza, so many of these people are at least once, if not twice displaced, internally-displaced people, and we're talking about them having to move yet again.

Second, Rafah is, at this point, the primary entry point for humanitarian assistance. There's the Rafah Crossing on Egypt-Gaza border, and there's the Kerem Shalom Crossing on the Israel-Gaza border immediately adjacent to the city of Rafah.

So a major ground operation in Rafah that's not properly planned and that is  that it takes place before necessary preparations could dramatically restrict the flow of already-insufficient humanitarian assistance into Gaza, and we need to do the opposite. We need to ensure that the flow of assistance can actually grow. And that, obviously, if it happened, would have really dire consequences and create, you know, a gravely serious situation for Palestinians civilians.

Third, Rafah is at the southern end of the Gaza Strip and it borders Egypt. And Egypt, Israel's peace partner since the Camp David Accords, has very publicly and, of course, privately voiced, you know, very significant concerns over a possible Israeli operation in Rafah, what it could produce in the way of civilians trying to cross the border, and that  and it could very much complicate their relationship with Israel. Israel has spoken publicly about the importance it places on coordinating with Egypt in regard  with regard to any operation in Rafah.

So those are some of the kind of features I think that are relevant in this conversation. As I said before, we support Israel's mission to defeat Hamas. And the Secretary expressed that. Rafah should not be a safe haven for Hamas nowhere in Gaza should be. So finding an alternative approach to defeating the Hamas battalions in Rafah in a way that protects Palestinian civilians is really the priority.

So that was the basis of the conversation. I won't get into too many more details about what each side presented. And regarding the question about security assistance, you know, security assistance, which is a longstanding feature of the U.S. Israel relationship and the U.S. Commitment Israel security, it has flowed more rapidly than ever since the attacks of October 7th. And the secretary ensures  said very clearly that we will continue to stand up for Israel's right to defend itself in accordance with the law of armed conflict and international humanitarian law, and to ensure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself.

STAFF: Thank you. Next question will go to Wall Street Journal, Michael Gordon.

Q: Yes. Thank you. Could you please tell me, did Minister Gallant brief Israel's plan for a Rafah operation, both the kinetic part and also the humanitarian dimension of moving the civilians out in any detail? Do you even know in any detail what the Israeli concept of operations is at this point?

And could you  and when you presented American ideas for an alternative approach, did you do  brief those to the Israeli side in detail? And is there some way you can characterize what those ideas are? Do they rely on tailored operations, closing the border, phasing? What are these alternative concepts that you presented to the Israeli side? Thank you.

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: Well, again, I'll let the Israeli delegation speak for the minister. What we've been very clear about, what the secretary was today was about the need to prioritize civilian protection, and that a military operation should not proceed without a credible and implementable plan that ensures the safety and humanitarian support for civilian sheltering there.

Obviously, that suggests that there is a sequence and a phasing of activities if the military aspect of the operation should not proceed until the humanitarian aspects have been fulsomely addressed. And so to the extent that they discussed, our idea is it included that sequencing, it has included the kind of precision targeting that, in fact, has even been effective in targeting some Hamas leaders elsewhere in Gaza already as the most effective means of really taking out leadership terrorist leaders, you know?

But this was, you know, the first of what I think will be quite a number of conversations. I'm not even really sure it's the first. As you know, Secretary Blinken was in Israel on Friday, meeting with the war cabinet. There are other conversations that are expected to take place in the coming days and in the days and weeks ahead. So this is an ongoing conversation between Israeli and U.S. leaders in which we will present more of our ideas. I expect they will present additional details about their planning. And that conversation will continue.

STAFF: Thank you. We'll go to Reuters, (Idrees ?).

Q: Hey, so the pentagon has said that the secretary has brought up the humanitarian crisis with Gallant every time they've spoken. But, you know, earlier today, the Secretary himself said that the situation in Gaza was worsening. Do you believe the Israelis are actually listening to anything you're saying? And why not use leverage  much of the leverage that you have with them whether it's weapons or anything else because  I mean, basically, it's tough to see why they would change their behavior if you're not willing to exert any pressure on them.

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: You know, first of all, again, context to this whole conversation is important. Hamas attacked Israel on October 7th brutally, killing over 1,200 Israelis, taking over 200 hostages. Half of whom are still being held by Hamas. And the United States belief, as the Secretary expressed, in Israel's inherent right to defend itself and to support and ensure they have what they need to defend their people has not changed.

We also recognize and have been very clear on the importance of ensuring civilians in Gaza remain safe. You heard Secretary Austin speak directly to the dire humanitarian conditions. And he has  through all of his conversations with Minister Gallant on the phone, in person, and in many other channels between our Department and the Ministry of Defense, we've been actively communicating the importance of taking civilian safety and security, as well as humanitarian assistance into account.

I believe and Minister Gallant did express his commitment to address those issues. They can speak in more detail about that. What we are aiming to see is a situation where Israelis and Palestinians can get past this terrible conflict, live next to each other in peace, remove the threat of Hamas to create chaos and terror that they really brought to both the Israeli and the Palestinian people. But just to emphasize the prioritization of addressing the humanitarian needs could not have been clear in this conversation. And it was a shared prioritization.

STAFF: Great. Next question, we'll go to Jeff Schogol, Task & Purpose.

Q: Thanks for doing this. I just wanted to ask again, what are the U.S. ideas for an alternative to an assault on Gaza? If you could get specific, what are these alternatives?

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: Well, again, I think I'll stick with the description I had. There are ideas that relate to sequencing. There are ideas that relate to the prioritization of humanitarian assistance getting in and civilians flowing out. There are ideas that relate to the communication between Israel and Egypt, and that relate to ensuring the Egypt-Gaza border is secure and not a source of  of smuggling of terrorists out or weapons in to Gaza, and there are ideas relating to the precision targeting of  of Hamas terrorists, and particularly terrorist leaders.

So those are among the ideas. Again, there's more detail that is shared and will be shared in our discussions in private, but that's, I think, our description.

And if I can just sort of take the opportunity to mention some of the impact of Secretary Austin's ongoing commitment and advocacy to improving humanitarian assistance flow and access in Gaza, you know, we are now seeing a rather significant increase in the flow of assistance through the many crossings that it does use  the Rafah crossing, the Kerem Shalom crossing, a new crossing, 96, that Israel has opened.

And to the extent that, while in February, after a rise in the flow, up to, on some days, around 200 trucks of assistance getting in, it was down around 100 trucks getting in in February, now it's on its way back to an average of close to 200 a day.

There's definitely still more to be done. We are contributing with airdrops, we are contributing with the maritime corridor. We are addressing  we are (also ?)  and Secretary did today  urging continued maximum flow through the crossing  the land crossing points I mentioned and others.

And so we see results but we also see the need for significantly more results.

STAFF: OK, next question will go to Fadi, Al Jazeera.

Q: Thank you for doing this. Can you please clarify one point? On the one hand, you talk about alternatives to a major operation in Rafah. On the other hand, you talk about a credible plan, in case that's  that operation is going to go forward, to protect civilians and increase aid. Does the Secretary think that there is a viable plan to invade Rafah that can meet those objectives?

And then did the Secretary walk away from this meeting with a sense that his ideas about a  a more targeted operation and the need for an immediate increase in assistance, that that Israeli delegation was receptive in a positive way to these ideas? Thank you.

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: The Secretary of course is very experienced, and many in our department are very experienced, with some of these very challenging operations of dealing  of working in urban environments to uproot terrorist organizations that are deeply embedded in civilian populations.

So we do have experience to draw on. That doesn't mean there's a an exact parallel between this situation and any previous situation, but it does mean that when we develop ideas, it is  it has some basis in experience.

And so, you know, we don't necessarily have every idea that one should need or what would be perfect, but we believe that the concepts that we are sharing and the additional ideas we're developing based on those concepts have the potential to achieve the dual objectives of protecting the civilians in  who are currently in Rafah and defeating the Hamas battalions that are in Rafah. We do believe that is  that is possible and we believe we have ideas that can be relevant to achieving those dual objectives.

I think it was a very good conversation today between the Secretary and the Minister. They know each other well, they trust each other, they are friends. And so the sharing of the Secretary's ideas, I would say yes, was met by very receptive ears.

STAFF: Thank you. And let's go to Fox, Liz Friden.

Q: Hey, thanks for doing this. Back to the weapons, why hasn't the U.S. put restrictions on the weapons it's sending to Israel, like the weapons that it sends to Ukraine?

And is the Pentagon considering cutting off offensive weapons and only giving defense ones, like missile defense, given the humanitarian crisis in Gaza?

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: You know, all U.S. security assistance is provided  excuse me  on the expectation that that security assistance will be used by our partners in accordance with the law of armed conflict and international humanitarian law and with the facilitation as needed of humanitarian assistance to those non-combatants who find themselves in  in areas of conflict.

Those are longstanding U.S. requirements. They have been reaffirmed in the national security memorandum that President Biden signed in January and that  or February, it may have been. And based on that national security memorandum, Israel and several other countries already  others will come later  have signed assurances that they will uphold those commitments. It was Minister Gallant himself who was  who signed on behalf of the state of Israel, and he reaffirmed today that these are Israel's own principles and own values.

So we stand by those expectations and those requirements, and we also fully support Israel's right to defend itself from the kind of attacks it experienced on October 7th. So, you know, that's the  you know, that  that  that's the best way, I think, to describe our expectation regarding the use of  the use of U.S. equipment.

STAFF: OK. We'll go to Al-Monitor, Jared.

Q: Hey, sir, thank you for doing this. You mentioned that this was one of the first in a number of conversations with Israeli counterparts in which ideas will be exchanged about potential ways forward in Rafah. Did the Secretary present the ideas  these ideas in a systematic fashion or would you characterize this more as a general discussion of what is possible within the IDF's capabilities?

And secondly, is the Secretary  is the Secretary confident after this meeting that an invasion of Rafah will not go forward until at least further bilateral discussions are held on the subject?

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: You know, the this is the  again, this is not the first conversation. It is a very important moment to have this conversation. And there will be other conversations. You know, some of those conversations can be shared more publicly, others are going to take place in private, and obviously things having to do with military operations are often classified.

So it  I don't know how much more, you know  and at what point we will share out of specific conversations, but the  this is  you know, the Secretary, I think, felt that it was a very productive and very  really quite meaty conversation on these concepts. Again, the though that  that conversation will continue in many channels and it will be developed further, so I'll  I  I'll think I'll leave the description at that.

I'm sorry, (inaudible), I forgot your second question.

QUESTION: The second one was, is the secretary confident that after this meeting...

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: Yeah.

QUESTION: ... the invasion of Rafah will not go forward?

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: Yeah, the secretary made very clear what our expectations are. That's been made clear now publicly and privately in many conversations and many statements by U.S. officials and between U.S. and Israeli officials, and we will continue to express that very, very clearly.

STAFF: We have time for just a few more. Let's go to PBS, Nick Schifrin.

QUESTION: Thanks, Pat. Thanks, (inaudible), for doing this. Gallant requested this meeting in order to talk about weapons that he believes Israel needs. Did he present you a list of that weapons? And did the secretary respond to that list of weapons positively? He and the prime minister, as you know, don't have the best of relationships. Do you have faith that everything that is being said to him here will be faithfully relayed back to the prime minister? And Israel has announced it is withdrawing from Doha its negotiators of the hostages. Did that come up at all today? Thanks.

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: The last point of the subject of the hostages is always a subject that Secretary Austin and Minister Gallant address. It's a major priority of both governments, and a major goal of ever since October 7th, to ensure the safe return of all hostages, which of course, includes some American hostages. So they did, of course, update each other on various aspects of those. The negotiations are being led by other parts of our government and other parts of their government, but both of them are very much aware of that  of those  of those issues.

I went backwards, so I'll start with security assistance, yeah. You know, the Israeli-U.S. dialogue on Israel's security needs is constant. It's ongoing. It adjusts to  adjusts to conditions and adjusts to the evolution of the military situation, obviously, in Gaza, but not only in Gaza. Israel faces threats and has been attacked from numerous other theaters, as well. And so it's very important that Israel have what it's  what it needs to defend itself. So the Israelis raised some issues in that regard, and the secretary was responsive to them and, you know, other announcements, if any, will come in  in due course.

Minister Gallant is a  as I've said, now become a good friend of  of Secretary Austin, and you know, when each one of them speaks to the other, they certainly speak authoritatively on behalf of their departments or ministries, and I have, you know, every faith that both of them convey the essence of those conversations to all the necessary colleagues and partners that  that they work with on both sides.

STAFF: OK, last question will go to Politico, Lara Seligman.

QUESTION: Thanks. My question's actually been asked, so you can go to someone else.

STAFF: OK, USNI, Sam.

QUESTION: Hi. Thanks for the time today. Can you talk about, were the  was there any discussion about partners on the other end of the Gaza pier, or how the screening process was going to work, or any kind of additional details on how those operations are going to happen on the Gaza end? Thanks.

SENIOR DEFENSE OFFICIAL: Yeah. You know, there are still a lot of very detailed and technical and security-related and aid delivery-related discussions underway that are happening in  in real time. We've obviously been focused on using that JLOTS system to move aid into Gaza since the president's announcement in the State of the Union. There are six ships on their way to the Eastern Mediterranean as part of that effort to construct a temporary pier. There's active discussions with humanitarian organizations and international donors about the assistance itself, and then how to facilitate its delivery. When the ships arrive in the next few weeks, they'll begin the process of assembling the temporary pier.

Once it's constructed, we estimate it will be able to deliver upwards of two million meals a day to the Palestinian people. As I've said before, it's just one part of the U.S. government's overall efforts to provide lifesaving humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza and is part of the sustained effort to deliver more aid, and it does not in any way replace  in fact, it is additive to other streams of assistance, particularly those coming in on land crossings that we believe must also increase at the same time.

STAFF: Great, thank you very much, sir.

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you again for joining us. Again, as a reminder, this discussion was on background attributable to "a senior defense official", and we will post a transcript to the DOD website when available. Thanks very much. Take care.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3719340/

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March 26, 2024

Transcript

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Ms. Sabrina Singh Holds a Press Briefing

DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SABRINA SINGH: All right, hi. Good afternoon, everyone. Just a few things at the top here and then happy to take your questions.

So let me start off by saying that our thoughts and our prayers are with all those who were impacted in the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge overnight. Obviously, it is very early in the process, but I can tell you that the commanding general of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been in touch with the Port of Baltimore, and the department is remaining in close contact with local and state officials and stands ready if any assistance is required.

Given the scope of the situation and this is likely to be a lengthy process, we will of course circle back with any new developments from the DOD perspective over the coming days and weeks to come.

Today, Secretary of Defense Austin hosted Israeli Minister of Defense Gallant at the Pentagon for his first visit to Washington in his current role. The Secretary and Minister Gallant affirmed their shared interests in defeating Hamas, discussed the importance of prioritizing civilians in Rafah, the dire humanitarian situation across Gaza, and threats to regional security.

The Secretary stressed that the United States and Israel have a moral imperative and a shared strategic interest in safeguarding civilians, noting that any assault on Rafah should not proceed without a credible and implementable plan that ensures the safety and humanitarian support for civilians sheltering there.

The Secretary also urged Minister Gallant to expand entry points for humanitarian assistance and address distribution challenges inside of Gaza. He also reiterated the department's commitment to establish a temporary maritime corridor to provide humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.

Separate but related, between March 2nd and today, U.S. Central Command has conducted 17 assistance airdrops into Gaza with more than 470,000 culturally appropriate, pork-free meals and over eight tons of food items, such as rice, flour, pasta, and canned food.

As always, safety is a top priority when planning these airdrops. Of note, during yesterday's humanitarian airdrop, which included approximately 80 bundles, three bundles were reported to have had parachute malfunctions and landed in the water.

It is important to note that drop zones are chosen to mitigate potential failures of parachutes to deploy. These humanitarian aid drops occur over water and the wind causes the bundles to drift over to land. In the event of a parachute malfunction, the bundles land in the water.

While only one part of the broader humanitarian effort, these airdrops are an expedient means to deliver critical aid to Gaza. As you've heard us say, we are exploring other options to increase the flow of aid with our partners, including the maritime corridor which we previously announced.

And switching gears, last year, the department announced policies authorizing administrative absences as well as travel and transportation allowances that would allow service members and their dependents access to non-covered reproductive healthcare.

This type of care includes non-covered abortion and assisted reproductive technology, such as in vitro fertilization, ovarian stimulations, and egg retrieval. These policies ensure that service members and their families are afforded the time and flexibility to make private healthcare decisions, as well as supporting access to non-covered reproductive healthcare, regardless of where they are stationed.

Today, we are releasing data of the cost and usage of these policies from June through December 2023. For the travel and transportation policy, the policy was used 12 times to access non-covered reproductive healthcare services. The number 12 accounts for each instance of an individual using the policy for a roundtrip event.

So for example, this could entail a service member traveling from their home station in one state or overseas location to a state where they can access non-covered reproductive healthcare services, and then returning home to that home station. Of note, a service member can use the policy more than once.

The total cost for the department for travel and the total cost for the department for travel and transportation in these 12 instances was $44,791.20. Due to privacy concerns, the department does not track the number of individuals who used the policy or collect data on specific type of non-covered reproductive healthcare services used by service members utilizing the travel and transportation policy.

And with that - I know that was a lot - I'm happy to take your questions. So Tara, if you want to start us off?

Q: OK, thanks, Sabrina. One clean up - June through December of 2023, so just the last six months of the last year?

MS. SINGH: Yeah.

Q: And 12 people total or 12 uses total and that could have been that one person went more than once?

MS. SINGH: 12 uses total, so it accounts for 12 times. And a service member can use the travel and transportation policy multiple times.

Q: OK, thanks.

Switching back to Israel and Gaza, were there any indications today, because of the abstention vote in the UN, that Israel is now not going to support the distribution or the maritime port access for the U.S. and others that are going to create this port?

MS. SINGH: No, there was not. Part of the conversation that the Secretary had with Minister Gallant was - one of the things that they discussed was about humanitarian aid getting into Gaza, getting to the Palestinian people who need it most. And of course, they discussed the maritime corridor. That's still going to be set up as planned. We're still a few weeks away from that being fully operational but that will still be set up.

Q: And since we are only a few weeks away from it being operational, do you have an update on how the logistics, how the distribution part of it, the security - what will the U.S. role be versus Israel's role?

MS. SINGH: Sure. So that's something that did also come up with Minister Gallant. Israel will play a role in providing some type of security and securing the temporary causeway to the coastline of Gaza, but those details are still going through the process of being worked out.

In terms of the distribution of humanitarian aid, that is also something that is ongoing. I don't have a better answer for you just now.

Q: And, just to follow up on I guess a question from a couple of days ago...

MS. SINGH: Sure.

Q: ... is DOD going to be in control of the distribution contract? I know no DOD personnel are going to be there, but is this going to be a DOD run effort?

MS. SINGH: To my knowledge, I don't believe we are going to have a part in the distribution of aid. Again, we're looking to - I don't want to get ahead of any conversations. Again, this is something that's ongoing. We are working with partners in the region. We're working with NGOs.

I just don't have a sense of - just yet on how that aid is going to be distributed once it comes off of what you're referring to as the causeway into Gaza. I just don't have more to provide at this time.

Patrice?

Q: Just quickly on the airdrop and the...

MS. SINGH: Yes.

Q: ... parachutes malfunctioned; do you know if anyone -if there are reports that up to...

MS. SINGH: Yes.

Q: ... 12 people were killed as they tried to go into the water to get the aid; have you seen that?

MS. SINGH: I've seen the reports. I can't confirm those reports, but I have seen them.

Q: And then secondly, Syrian state media said, claimed, that the United States carried out airstrikes in Syria last night, did you carry out airstrikes?

MS. SINGH: We did not carry out airstrikes in Syria last night.

Fadi.

Q: Thank you, Sabrina. So, Vice President Harris said recently in an interview that she looked at the maps and she doesn't think there's anywhere that 1.5 million Palestinian refugees in Rafah can go to, however, we still hear from you and she thinks that any operation in Rafah could be abstained .We still hear from you and the Pentagon that for this operation, to go - you know, to go forward, we need a credible plan to protect civilian, move them around.

Which one is the policy of this administration, that there could be a plan to assault Rafah or there can't be a plan because these 1.5 million can't go anywhere?

MS. SINGH: I don't think there's any daylight to what the Vice President has said to what the Secretary has said and reiterated at the top of his meeting with Minister Gallant. We've been very clear that any major ground operation within Rafah that does not consider the protection of innocent civilians that are there - you know that there's over 1 million people that are sheltering in Rafah - can't go forward.

So, we've been very clear. I think the Vice President made that very clear. And that's what you saw the Secretary also reiterate in his meeting with Minister Gallant, and something that I read out at the top of - of this briefing.

Q: Did - did Secretary hear any plan from Gallant about a potential operation in Rafah?

MS. SINGH: Mr. Gallant broadly highlighted their thinking on how they would approach Rafah. The Secretary certainly appreciated the opportunity to discuss that with Minister Gallant, but it was at a very high level.

Again, what we continue to reiterate, both publicly and privately is that any type of operation into Rafah must account for the over 1 million people that are sheltered there and take into account innocent civilian lives and so, what we have said is going forward with an operation in Rafah would be a mistake if - if those lives aren't taken into account.

Yeah, Hailey.

Q: Thank you, Sabrina. Just to follow up on Fadi's question and one other...

MS. SINGH: Sure.

Q: ... unrelated, but Secretary Austin, I know he said today that he and Mr. Gallant have spoken nearly 40 times, a defense official said to - earlier today, the two are good friends, that they have become very close. Yet obviously, there are still concerns in terms of how Israel has carried things out, sort of friction I guess between what we have been advising and what Israel always been saying on the ground in Gaza with respect to civilians.

So, what commitments did Mr. Gallant make in today's meeting when it comes to humanitarian aid getting into Gaza? And after today's meeting, how confident Secretary Austin that's the - that Israel will be taking the warnings and advice on Rafah seriously and moving forward?

MS. SINGH: Well, it was certainly a frank and direct conversation. I think you can appreciate that friends can have these types of conversations with each other. I'll let Minister Gallant speak to what he said in the meeting, but I think our concerns were certainly heard and have been heard by the Israeli government.

And what you saw from the Secretary is reiterate our concerns in a face-to-face conversation that humanitarian aid continue to flow into Gaza. We know that humanitarian aid is stalled at these border crossings, so we need to see that aid flow in. We do not want to see the humanitarian situation on the ground become even worse, and of course, the Secretary reiterated the United States' commitment to setting up that maritime floating peer that will be set up in the coming weeks.

But it was honestly, a good it was a good conversation to have, not only about Rafah, but just generally about the ongoing Israeli operations within Gaza. And I'm sorry, I think I missed your second question there.

Q: No - just how confident Secretary Austin was in the end Rafah, but I had an unrelated question...

MS. SINGH: Okay, go ahead.

Q: ... yes, the Corps of Engineers, have they been officially requested to assist yet in Baltimore? And then also on the parachute malfunction...

MS. SINGH: Yes.

Q: ... do you have a - a rough number or exact, if you could on how many other times we've seen those kind of malfunctions happen with the drops that have been conducted?

MS. SINGH: For an exact number, I would refer you to CENTCOM, but as you know, last week, CENTCOM put out in one of their statements that I believe five bundles had a similar malfunction and that the parachutes didn't deploy. But for more specifics, I'd direct you to them.

And then in terms of the Army Corps of Engineers - so, we are in touch with state and local officials. The Army Corps of Engineers hasn't received an official request. I believe right now, the focus is really on search and rescue, but once we receive those requests, we'll keep you updated in the coming days and weeks as, those requests come in and the mission could change.

I'm going to go to the phones and then happy to come back in the room.

Jeff Schogol, Task & Purpose.

Q: Thank you. I'm just - routine check, is there anything different about the US footprint in Niger? Have any US troops left? Has anything changed?

MS. SINGH: Thanks, Jeff, for the question. No, no updates and nothing new since we last spoke or - and briefed earlier this week.

Next question from Sam, USNI News.

Q: Hey, Sabrina, are you all seeing any additional action from the Houthis in the Indian Ocean? That was a big threat that they had made in the last couple of weeks that they were going to be expanding operations to threaten merchant shipping out there?

And then, have you all had any determination about whether the strike on the Chinese ship by the Houthis was intentional or an accident? Thanks.

MS. SINGH: Thanks, Sam for the question. In terms of expanding Houthi operations into the - into the Indian Ocean, I would direct you to them to speak to that. We have seen mainly their efforts focused into the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and that - that BAM area.

But again, we continue to monitor the threats from the Houthis. You've seen us conduct dynamic strikes when it comes to seeing their capabilities present themselves. You saw - we've done that - you know, pretty much on a consistent basis. But again, I would direct you to the Houthis to speak to any change in their posture or operations.

In terms of the PRC ship, you know, I can't - I can't say that they knew or didn't know that that was a Chinese ship or flagged. What I can say is that we saw very publicly that they've said that they were not going to attack PRC or Russian ships and yet, they did.

So just another reminder that we have more than 50 countries with equities that continue to transit through the Red Sea. We see, you know, a significant amount of commerce that continues to flow through the Red Sea. This is an incredibly important passageway for ships and for commerce. And through Operation Prosperity Guardian, we continue to stand by and uphold the freedom of navigation. You see that being done almost every single day. And we're very proud of our efforts there.

MS. SINGH: OK, yeah.

Q: So we have cardinal to be the secretary of state upon the Vatican traveling to Moscow and then Ukraine, and then here in Washington in the past month, try to setup to do an intense diplomatic action to find peace. But nothing really moved. And then we had the Pope a few days ago talking about a white flag in Ukraine. So, like, in a way that Ukraine might need to give up a little bit to go toward peace. So what is  what's the Pentagon believe that the role of the Vatican should be in finding peace or if there is any comment from the Pentagon?

MS. SINGH: You know, I don't really have much to add here. All I can tell you is our efforts when it comes to Ukraine, should we get a supplemental package from Congress, we are going to continue to arm Ukraine with what it needs on the battlefield as it continues to fight for its sovereign territory.

Q: So there's no  what the role of the Vatican, you know?

MS. SINGH: Yeah, I'm just  I can only speak on behalf of the Department and  sure.

Q: That means that now it's about Poland.

MS. SINGH: Ok.

Q: Poland said about shooting missiles from Ukraine  from Russia. It was on the news in Europe. What is the position of the Pentagon about a foreign state like Poland bring the NATO maybe in war if they shoot a missile from Ukraine  from Russia on Ukraine?

MS. SINGH: I'm trying to follow. I haven't seen exactly what you're referenced. What I can tell you is that what this administration has said repeatedly is that we will defend every inch of NATO. Should a NATO ally be attacked, we certainly don't want to see that, but we will defend every inch of NATO. Our priority right now is making sure that Ukraine has what it needs on the battlefield.

As you know, we pushed out an emergency presidential drawdown authority a few weeks ago to give Ukraine an urgent need of security assistance. We are hopeful that Congress will pass a supplemental. Congress did just pass a FY24 budget, so we're hoping that we can also pass the Ukraine supplemental that we need in order to continue to arm Ukraine with what it needs on the battlefield.

I'm going to move on. Yeah.

Q: Thank you, Sabrina. A couple of questions on Iraq. As the talks continue between you and your Iraqi partners regarding the future security and military relations known as HMC, do you have any updates where the talks are now? I mean, what progress has been made in this regard?

MS. SINGH: I don't have any updates for you on conversations with the HMC. Again, we are committed to the HMC to continuing that dialogue, but I just don't have an update for you today.

Q: OK. I've been hearing from you as optional saying that ISIS is still a threat, even as of today, in his meeting with Iraqi counterpart, Secretary of State Tony Blinken said that ISIS remains a real threat. And so regardless of how the talks go, don't you believe that that requires the U.S. forces and alliance staying in Iraq and Syria?

MS. SINGH: Yes. ISIS does remain a real threat. And that is exactly why we are in Syria and Iraq for that very mission to ensure the defeat of ISIS. That is exactly what our service members are doing there. And so absolutely having our presence there in the region has helped defeat ISIS, but we certainly value the partnership whether it'd be the Iraqi security forces or the SDF in our efforts to defeat ISIS. Janne.

Q: Thank you, Sabrina. Regarding the transfer of wartime operational control, General Paul LaCamera, commander of the U.S. and ROK Combined Forces Command, said at the Congressional hearing last week that the transfer of wartime operational control is in threat. Does this mean that all conditions for South Korea to receive the transfer are met?

MS. SINGH: I'm sorry, Janne. I'm not sure I understand the question. Could you repeat that?

Q: General LaCamera said that the  I mean command of the USFK.

MS. SINGH: Yeah, of USFK, yup,

Q:  CFC has said that Congressional hearing last week, that the transfer of wartime operational control is on track. Does this mean that all conditions for South Korea to receive the transfer are met?

MS. SINGH: Yeah, I don't have anything else to provide. Sorry I asked you to clarify. I don't have anything more to provide than the comments that were offered at the hearing. We certainly value our partnership with ROK. That's something that we continue to deepen each and every day. And I'll just leave it at that.

Q: Why he said that kind of issue certainly this time because if not South Korea not met in conditions, that will not be transferred operational?

MS. SINGH: Yeah, I just don't have more to provide, sorry.

Q: North Korea announced that they are preparing to launch a new reconnaissance military satellite. Do you have any information on how you prepare them for, you know, new satellite launch?

MS. SINGH: Yeah. Without getting into intelligence, Janne, as I'm sure you can appreciate, I just don't have a comment. We continue to obviously monitor what happens on the Peninsula, but I don't have more to add at this time.

Q: So are you going to provide the technical activities?

MS. SINGH: Look, we continue to monitor the relationship between Russia and the DPRK. It's something that certainly concerns us as the DPRK has provided Russia with military support that it's using to kill innocent Ukrainians, and certainly as Ukraine continues to defend its sovereign territory. But I just don't have more for you to  more at this time. Yeah.

Q: My question is about Secretary Austin's meeting with Japan's National Security Advisor Akiba yesterday. In addition to the readout, could you give us a sense of what kind of topics were discussed and  especially whether they discussed how to strengthen the command structure of the U.S. Force Japan ultimately?

MS. SINGH: Yeah, I know, this is not going to be a satisfactory answer, but as you can appreciate, I'm not going to go too much beyond the readout. The meeting offered another opportunity for us to talk to our ally in the region, but I would just let the readout stand for what we put out following that meeting.

Liz.

Q: The Navy is requesting $2.2 billion to Congress to make up for the lack of a supplemental and FYI '24 not being passed to fill that gap in funding. Can you explain some of the shortfalls that the U.S. Navy is facing, you know, through this funding like ship building, missiles for the ships in Red Sea?

MS. SINGH: I will let the Navy speak to the more specifics on that. What I can tell you is that we operated under a short-term CR or multiple CRs for I think over six months  will certainly set us back not only in what we were able to spend but in new programs that we're able to start off. Essentially, operating under a CR is like operating with one arm tied behind your back. You're just not able to do it effectively.

And so, for more specifics on what the Navy is looking for and for their programs, I would direct you to them. But just broadly speaking we are six months late into having an FY24 budget. We're heading into FY25 to  you've seen many people testifying on the Hill in terms of their posture hearings. We still don't have the supplemental. So, all I can say is that we continue to urge Congress to give us an on-time appropriations.

Louie.

Q: Going back to Baltimore. There had been no request from many of the other services? And has the Maryland National Guard have been providing any kind of assistance as well?

MS. SINGH: Well, for the Maryland National Guard, I would direct you to Maryland to speak more to that. From a department's standpoint, we haven't received formal request yet. We are in touch, as I mentioned. The Commanding General of the Army Corps of Engineers is in touch with the Port of Baltimore.

Right now, the mission that they are focused on is really search and rescue. As things develop and change, when we get those requests, we'll keep you updated in the coming days and weeks on what our assistance looks like.

Q: Then going back to your opening statement about the healthcare numbers for out-of-state visits.

MS. SINGH: Yes.

Q: I think the Secretary instituted that policy in October of 2022. Your numbers are from June to January. Is that right?

MS. SINGH: So, the numbers are  what I read out was approximately six months and it was from June through December 2023. So, this falls.

Q: This number is from January to June 2023? Or is it just the first time that you're disposing these numbers?

MS. SINGH: The actual travel policy when it was announced, you might remember followed the Dobbs decisions. Services had around August to start implementing how they would track these policies. But some were able to do it earlier than that formal deadline. So, that's why it's approximately a snapshot between June and December 2023 of that reporting period.

Tara? I'm sorry. Wait, hold on. I'm sorry. Do you have a follow up?

Q: No, no, you kind of clarified it because it seemed to have been like a six-month, seven-month lack

MS. SINGH: Right.

Q: ...between information. Yes.

MS. SINGH: Yes. Sorry.

Q: Is it accurate...

MS. SINGH: No.

Q:  to say that all of those holds by Senator Tuberville were basically over 12 uses of DOD's policy?

MS. SINGH: That's correct, for six months.

Q: And the policy included just  it's been a while since you talked about this.

MS. SINGH: Sure.

Q: Is the travel cost or any sort of airfare or hotel? Or can you just what the...?

MS. SINGH: It was to travel just out of state. So, it was  if a service member needed to travel from  well, I gave that example, like a home station to another state to receive care and back, it's just that travel portion.

Q: Okay. But did the DOD cover hotel costs or anything like that?



MS. SINGH: Not to my knowledge. It was...



MS. SINGH: Yes.

Q: how that 40,000 is calculated.

MS. SINGH: Let me take that question just for any more specifics on what that  if there's like a further breakdown I can provide. But to my knowledge it's just the actual transportation and travel.

Q: Okay.

MS. SINGH: Yes.

Q: Just one more on..

MS. SINGH: Sure.

Q: clarity. Does not mean these were 12 abortions this could have been someone getting IVF or...

MS. SINGH: That's right. So, the policy  and I think I might have mentioned this at the top, but that's correct. It does not necessarily mean that this was a service member using this travel transportation policy for an abortion. This could have been IVF treatment, egg retrieval, basically any type of non-covered reproductive health service that the departmentdoes not cover and is not available in his or her state.

Yes, one more question at the back? And then happy to come back here.

Q: One question on Iraq. Do you have any discussion with the Iraqi government about the past U.S.-led global coalition discussion or relationship? Because what we're hearing from the Iraqi Prime Minister's office about his visit to the White House, he said that we're going to Washington to talk about the past relations between the U.S. and Iraq, that the past U.S.-led coalition. Is there any discussion on that?

MS. SINGH: I don't have anything more for you. We are committed to the HMC. You've seen us continue to engage in those dialogues. I just don't have more for you at this time.

Q: They're not discussing about the past U.S.-led global coalition or they're just talking about the evolution of that mission?

MS. SINGH: For the White House you mean? I'll direct you to the White House for more specifics on that.

Q: With the HMC meetings, is that  talking about the evolution of that ISIS mission, defeating ISIS mission. Or it's something about  talking about the past defeating ISIS?

MS. SINGH: Yes. Again, I think we've been pretty clear that there are certain parameters that the HMC is going to be used to address. When those conversations started, we read those out at the top from here at this podium.

One of those was our relationship with the Iraqi government, the security environment in Iraq, and of course, the partnership with Iraqi security forces. Again, these conversations continue to be ongoing. We're committed to the HMC. I don't have more for you at this time. I'm going to move on.

Yes, Liz.

Q: On the healthcare travel policy that we talked about earlier.

MS. SINGH: Yes.

Q: Is the breakdown of what procedures were accessed, will that ever be released?

MS. SINGH: No, for the privacy of individuals, we're not going to provide  and we don't ask for a breakdown of what that person needs. What this track is how many times that policy was used. So, it was just 12 times that this travel transportation policy was used by service members. And again, a service member could use it multiple times.

Fadi.

Q: So, Secretary Austin discussed today with the Minister Gallant the shared goal of dismantling Hamas battalions in the Rafah. Does Secretary Austin think that this objective can be achieved without a major Israeli operation in Rafah?

MS. SINGH: Yes. Thanks, Fadi. I think I answered your question earlier, but I'll try it again for you. Just to reiterate, I think the Secretary has been pretty clear that we don't believe a ground incursion into Rafah without taking into account the 1 million people that are there, or any type of operation into Rafah that does not take into account the 1 million people that are there would be a mistake. And I'll leave it at that.

Q: I'm not thinking about that part, though. I'm thinking from  my question is about from the military perspective, and based on the Secretary's experience, the war experience. Does he think that Israel can achieve the goal of dismantling Hamas in Rafah without actually conducting a major invasion?

MS. SINGH: Well, we share the goal with Israel that we want to see Hamas dismantled. I mean this is a terrorist organization that brutally killed over 1,000 people. So we should  certainly share that goal. How that operation is conducted within Rafah is something that we are going to continue to discuss with the Israeli government.

That's what you saw the Secretary discuss with Mr. Gallant today. We shared our concerns. We have our concerns. Is there a way to do it, that's what we're having this conversation about.

I don't have that answer for you right now but we certainly share the goal of dismantling this terrorist organization but also protecting the over 1 million people that are there.

Laura and then I will end. Yes.

Q: Is it accurate that Israel has asked the U.S. to approve additional F-15 and F-35 fighter planes? And if so, is that something the U.S. is considering doing?

MS. SINGH: Yeah, so I don't have more specifics to read out from the meeting. Security assistance was discussed. That is something that we have committed to providing to Israel. But on more specifics, and I think what you're referring to it also would have to  falls under FMS, which is what the State Department would handle. So I also direct you there for them to talk more about that. Last question over here.

MS. SINGH: Sure.

Q: About the Baltimore bridge. There were some report about potential cyber attack on the ship. Does the DOD rule that out or investigating 

MS. SINGH: I just don't have anything for you on that, unfortunately. I saw some of those reports but I  I can't confirm those.

All right, thank you everyone.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3719422/

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San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins speaks during a protest Friday against Superior Court Judge Kay Tsenins decision to suspend the sentence of a mentally ill man who pleaded guilty to stabbing a 94-year-old woman. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle

A judge who issued a suspended prison sentence to a mentally disturbed man who stabbed an elderly Asian American woman has received death threats and is now hearing cases remotely rather than going to the courthouse, the Bar Association of San Francisco said Tuesday.

Superior Court Judge Kay Tsenin decided not to attend hearings on Friday, the day she was targeted by an angry protest outside the Hall of Justice at 850 Bryant St., the Bar Association said. The 60 demonstrators, mostly Asian Americans, were joined by District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, whose office prosecuted the case.

Daniel Cauich, then 35, stabbed 94-year-old Anh Peng Taylor in the abdomen and arm in June 2021 while she was walking with a cane on Post Street. She was in severe pain and had difficulty walking for some time but has recovered.

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Cauich was held in custody before pleading guilty in November to attempted murder and other charges. Jenkins office sought a 12-year prison sentence, but Tsenin, after hearing from Cauichs lawyer about his mental state, issued a 10-year sentence and suspended it, allowing him to remain out of prison if he undergoes treatment in the citys Intensive Supervision Court. He would face 10 years in prison if he violated any of the terms of his release.

Jenkins, in a March 15 post on X, called the sentence reckless and said that all San Franciscans were left less safe today. On Tuesday, the Bar Association told the Chronicle that the district attorney was contributing to an atmosphere of hostility toward local judges.

The sentence was well within the bounds of law, said attorney Mary McNamara, a spokesperson for the Bar Association of San Francisco. She said Cauich suffered from a brain injury, apparently had been hearing voices and attacked his victim at random, with no evidence of racial motivation. He will be under close supervision for five years, subject to searches and will be locked up if he violates the conditions of release, she said.

A well-respected judge who has given decades of service has been threatened for doing her job, McNamara said. This is the moment when we, as citizens, must protect our democracy by protecting our judges. The Bar Association of San Francisco calls on our community to stand up for judicial independence, to speak out against attacks on judges and to demand more of our leaders.

Ellen Chaitin, a retired San Francisco Superior Court judge, said Jenkins has added to an inflamed atmosphere that resulted in threats to Judge Tsenin.

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In response, Jenkins issued a statement denouncing the reported death threats while repeating her criticism of the sentencing decision.

Although we may disagree with decisions and rulings judges make, like in this case or in the Supreme Courts gutting of Roe v. Wade, death threats, which occurred in these two situations, are wholly unacceptable and will not be tolerated, the district attorney said. My office has opposed this sentencing because we do not believe that it delivers justice for the victim.

Tsenin and the court declined to comment.

A law professor and expert on prosecutorial ethics said prosecutors should generally refrain from attacking judicial decisions in their cases  but that this case may be a rare exception.

If the public doesnt have confidence in the system of justice and the rule of law, you invite anarchy, you invite cynicism, said Bennett Gershman, who teaches at the Elizabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University in New York.

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But the sentence in Cauichs case appears to be incredibly soft, he said, and the district attorney, elected by the people, may have the right or even the duty to speak out, respectfully and reasonably.

Rory Little, a law professor at UC School of Law in San Francisco, disagreed. Under the American Bar Associations standards of ethics, he said, a prosecutor who receives an unfavorable ruling should either accept it or express respectful disagreement, and Jenkins has gone much further.

Yes, the crime was horrible, Little said by email. That does not give any lawyer, and particularly a prosecutor supposedly representing ALL the people, a right or even an excuse for making things MORE horrible.

Ko Lyn Cheang contributed to this report.
March 25, 2024

Release

Statement by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on the Upcoming Departure of Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Sasha Baker

Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Sasha Baker will step down at the end of April. I am deeply grateful for her outstanding contributions to the Department and to U.S. national security.

Acting Under Secretary Baker was asked to step into a difficult and critical position, and she has been a pillar of strength and wisdom. Under her leadership, our Policy team has helped the Department navigate a range of complex global challenges, including major crises in Ukraine and the Middle East. Her strategic acumen and steadfast commitment to our national security have helped her play a pivotal role in shaping our defense policies, tackling emerging threats, and strengthening interagency relationships and international alliances.

As Acting Under Secretary Baker moves on to her next chapter, we wish her continued success and thank her for her service to the Department and the United States.

Amanda Dory, a career civil servant and OSD Policy veteran who is currently the Director of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies at the National Defense University in Washington, DC, will perform the duties of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy when Acting Under Secretary Baker departs.

I urge the United States Senate to confirm Derek Chollet, our outstanding nominee to serve as Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. At this crucial moment for U.S. defense policy, the Department needs a confirmed principal adviser in this critical role.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3718044/

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March 26, 2024

By Matthew Olay , DOD News

Austin Reemphasizes U.S. Support for Israel's Defeat of Hamas, Underscores Need to Protect Gaza Civilians

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III stated today that the U.S. remains committed to supporting Israel's efforts to defeat the Hamas terror group in Gaza, with the understanding that such efforts must prioritize keeping Palestinian civilians out of harm's way.

His remarks came at the beginning of a bilateral meeting at the Pentagon this morning with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

"President Biden has been clear: Israel has a right to defend itself like any other state. So, we're working with Israel to ensure that an outrage like October 7th can never happen again; and the United States will not rest until all the hostages are home," Austin said at the start of the meeting.

"And as I have consistently said," he continued, "protecting Palestinian civilians from harm is both a moral necessity and a strategic imperative. The safety of the 1.5 million Palestinians in Rafah is also a top priority of the United States."

Regarding Rafah, a significant portion of the meeting focused on Israel's concept of operations in that city, with Austin expressing that the U.S.'s goal is to help Israel find an alternative to a full-scale military operation that could potentially endanger the city's civilian population, according to one senior defense official familiar with the meeting.

The secretary made clear during the meeting that such an alternative would involve a "sequence and a phasing of activities" that would be needed to make civilian protection a priority, and that any military operation should not proceed unless a "credible and implementable plan" is already in place to ensure the safety and humanitarian support for civilians sheltering in the area.

When questioned as to how confident he is the U.S. and Israel are going to be able to find a viable alternative to a use-of-force-only approach in Rafah, the official said both sides are confident such an alternative is possible.

"We believe that the concepts that we are sharing and the additional ideas we're developing based on those concepts have the potential to achieve the dual objectives of protecting the civilians who are currently in Rafah and defeating the Hamas battalions that are in Rafah," the official said.

On the topic of humanitarian support in Gaza, Austin stressed the important need for "immediate increases and assistance [in aid] to avert famine."

During the past month, U.S. Central Command has coordinated the delivery of thousands of meals via airdrop into Gaza. Earlier this month, Centcom announced the construction of a temporary pier along the Gaza shoreline to facilitate the delivery of additional aid by sea.

"Our work to open a temporary humanitarian corridor by sea will help," Austin said this morning, "but the key is still expanding aid deliveries by land."

In one promising humanitarian aid-related development, the senior official said that the flow of assistance throughout the Gaza region has been on the uptick over the past month, with a roughly 100% increase in aid (200 trucks in March versus 100 trucks in February) getting to civilians.

"We see results," said the official, "but we also see the need for significantly more results."

Prior to this morning's meeting Austin and Gallant met in Tel Aviv in October and December last year, and the secretary noted that they had spoken on the phone more than 40 times since the Oct. 7 terror attacks on Israel.

"I think it was a very good conversation today between the secretary and the minister. They know each other well, they trust each other, [and] they are friends," said the senior official.

"And so, I would say the sharing of the secretary's ideas was met by very receptive ears."

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Prime Minister's Office Statement

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

The 37th Government

26.03.2024



The Prime Minister's Office, this morning:

Hamas's stance clearly demonstrates its utter disinterest in a negotiated deal and attests to the damage done by the UN Security Council's resolution.

Hamas has once again rejected an American compromise proposal and has repeated its extreme demands: An immediate halt to the war, the complete withdrawal of the IDF from the Gaza Strip and leaving in place its administration so that it can repeat, time and again, the massacre of October 7, as it has promised to do.

Hamas rebuffed all US offers for a compromise, while celebrating the Security Council's resolution.

Israel will not address Hamas's delusional demands. Israel will pursue and achieve its just war objectives: Destroying Hamas's military and governmental capacities, release of all the hostages, and ensuring Gaza will not pose a threat to the people of Israel in the future.

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Prime Minister's Office Statement

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

The 37th Government

26.03.2024



The United States has abandoned its policy in the UN today. Just a few days ago, it supported a Security Council resolution that linked a call for a ceasefire to the release of hostages.

China and Russia vetoed that resolution partly because they opposed a ceasefire that was linked to the release of hostages. Yet today, Russia and China joined Algeria and others in supporting the new resolution precisely because it had no such linkage.

Regrettably, the United States did not veto the new resolution, which calls for a ceasefire that is not contingent on the release of hostages.

This constitutes a clear departure from the consistent US position in the Security Council since the beginning of the war.

Today's resolution gives Hamas hope that international pressure will force Israel to accept a ceasefire without the release of our hostages, thus harming both the war effort and the effort to release the hostages.

Prime Minister Netanyahu made it clear last night that should the US depart from its principled policy and not veto this harmful resolution, he will cancel the Israeli delegation's visit to the United States. In light of the change in the US position, PM Netanyahu decided that the delegation will remain in Israel.

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Krisjanis Karins in Washington underlines the importance of transatlantic partnership and US leadership

Republic of Latvia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

26.03.2024

On 25 March 2024, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Krisjanis Karins, while on a working visit in Washington, D.C., the United States, together with his counterparts from the Baltic States, met with the United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken.

The Ministers underlined in a discussion that the outcomes of the NATO Washington summit in July would reassert the power and unity of NATO, the Allies' further support to Ukraine, and a shared perspective on deterring Russia.

Krisjanis Karins, while pointing out that the current year marked the 20th anniversary of Latvia's NATO membership, thanked the United States for its unwavering support for the security and protection of the Baltic region, including the contribution of USD 228 million to our defence capabilities this year. Recalling the deportations of Latvians and other people from the Baltics 75 years ago, the Foreign Minister emphasised the importance of transatlantic cooperation and US leadership worldwide in order to stand up united for democracy and the safeguarding of the rules-based international order. Russia's aggression must be stopped and strong support to Ukraine must not be delayed, so as to ensure its victory over the aggressor.

The Foreign Minister also met with Philip Gordon, the National Security Advisor to the US Vice President.

As part of his visit, Krisjanis Karins took part in a public discussion at the Hudson Institute think tank on "Enhancing Northern European Security: Why the US Should Listen to the Baltic States?".

The Minister also had meetings with experts from the Heritage Foundation conservative think tank, the Gallup centre for public opinion polling, and a US-based international think tank, the Atlantic Council, as well as with leading media at the US National Press Club, and he gave an interview to the US National Public Radio.

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Filipino bishops battle Beijing in maritime dispute

In an unusually combative exhortation, the Catholic priests also called on the Marcos administration to take a firmer stance.

By RFA and BenarNews Staff 2024.03.26 -- The bishops are nothing if not blunt.

China's incursions in the South China Sea have "wrought havoc on the lives of our fisherfolk" in the Philippines, six Filipino Church leaders said in a rare and surprisingly combative pastoral exhortation issued last month.

The government's response to the territorial trespasses, meanwhile, amounts to a "policy of appeasing the Chinese aggressors."

"We seek peace, and it cannot be a moral option to wage war," the bishops said. But the statement also offers a case for defending the Philippines' territorial integrity in the longstanding maritime dispute.

If diplomatic efforts falter "then it is permissible, morally necessary even, to have recourse to the friendship of allies who can help us defend what is ours!"

The 519-word statement doesn't name its potential allies, but the United States and the Philippines signed a Mutual Defense Treaty in 1951 that calls on both nations to support each other if one of them is attacked by a third party.

The letter was so blunt that Justin Baquisal, a Philippine security analyst, said he had to read it twice.

"This is the first time that they've spoken with this tone," Baquisal said. "The usual tactic before is they would issue an oratio imperata, which is sort of a like a call for prayer. But this time, this is very explicit. This is a political statement. It is very much directed at the government. It is directed at China."

A smaller catch

It isn't clear how the statement will affect the dispute over the South China Sea, which in recent weeks has grown even more tense. In a country where more than 80% of the population considers themselves Catholic, the church carries considerable political weight.

At the least, the statement gives political cover to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has spoken more forcefully against China's actions than his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.

"The livelihood of our people depends on what we have on the seaside," said Bishop Bartolome Santos, Jr., who leads the diocese in Iba in the western Philippine province of Zambales and was one of the six who signed the letter.

"We need to be proactive and stand beside our people so they can have some hope. We need to give them energy and encouragement  to not give up and stand our ground."

Liu Pengyu, a spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said China has "indisputable sovereignty" over the area and that it was "completely legitimate and legal" for Chinese ships to operate there.

But the bishops said that fishermen in Zambales have long relied on the Scarborough Shoal, an atoll 124 nautical miles, or 230 kilometers, west from the coastline of Luzon, the largest island in northern Philippines.

Called Bajo de Masinloc by the locals, the shoal was where they fished for large grouper and bluefin tuna.

At the Masinloc market these days it's mostly just anchovies, mackerels and small tuna for sale. Filipino fishermen from the area told RFA that their catch has been cut by as much as two thirds since the Chinese coast guard started trying to block access to the area in 2012.

Tolomeo Farones said he was forced to quit altogether.

"The boat owner sold our boat because we couldn't go to sea thanks to China's harassment, and it would just be rotten lying around," he said in an interview.

Farones now makes a living as a janitor at a local school.

Another flashpoint

In their exhortation, the six bishops said Filipino fishermen "have to venture far into the open sea, risking their lives to make a catch and then still face the threat of being bullied by Chinese fishing and naval vessels."

In 2016, the Philippine government brought China to a tribunal under the 1982 United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea.

The tribunal ruled that almost all Chinese claims in the South China Sea are illegitimate, but Manila did little to stake its claim.

"It has already been decided by international law that it belongs to us, we should not allow China to take over," said Bishop Broderick Pabillo, an outspoken priest serving in northern Palawan who also signed the statement.

"We are calling on the government to be more firm in their stance to protect our territorial waters and our sovereignty which are being taken over by China."

Liu, the Chinese Embassy spokesman, said that China "does not accept or recognize" the tribunal's ruling.

Pabillo's congregants fish the Second Thomas Shoal off the coast of Palawan, some 500 miles south of Masinloc.

Chinese and Philippine coast guard vessels have been confronting each other in recent months near where the Philippines deliberately grounded a World War II-era ship to serve as a military outpost and mark its territorial claims.

"I don't know what China will do, but I think we're doing something, making China realize that we will not take this sitting down," Pabillo said.

Analyst Baquisal said that the statement from the bishops represents an escalation of rhetoric that could put further pressure on the government to confront China.

Manila has set aside a budget to construct a facility for the troops stationed on the warship this year.

"China already said it won't allow such a facility to be constructed. If that event happens then I expect the Catholic Church will play an active role in denouncing China's blockade in that area," Baquisal said.

A history of activism

The Catholic Church has been entangled in Philippine politics since Spanish explorers set foot in the country in the early 1500s.

More than 90 million Filipinos, or 81% of the country's population, call themselves Catholics, giving the Church outsized political influence. The Catholic Church was, in fact, the most prominent voice of dissent against former President Duterte's war on drugs, which killed thousands. Many priests received death threats for their activism, but public support for the anti-drug campaign fell.

In 1986, religious groups led by Cardinal Jaime Sin, the archbishop of Manila, played a prominent role in the so-called People Power Revolution. The protests eventually led Marcos' father, President Ferdinand Marcos, to flee to exile after years of ruling the country as a dictator.

"Of course the Catholic Church is not an armed organization, but we need to be proactive in one way or another," Bishop Santos told RFA.

"We have to stand beside our people. We also have to give them hope and ... to give them at least the energy and encouragement, not just to give up but still we have to stand our ground."

Edited by Jim Snyder, Abby Seiff and Imran Vittachi.

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 March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Vietnamese FM: President's ouster doesn't change much

Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son said Hanoi's collective leadership means its core policies will remain the same.

By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2024.03.26 -- Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong's resignation last week amid corruption allegations will have little impact on Vietnam's direction, the country's foreign minister said in Washington on Tuesday.

Speaking in English at the Brookings Institution, Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son said the "collective leadership" model used in Hanoi meant Thuong's surprise ouster represented only a change of personnel.

"The resignation of the president, I think, will not affect our foreign policy as well as our own [domestic] policy of economic development," Son said. "We have collective leadership. We have collective foreign policy. We have collective-decided economic-path development."

Vietnam's policies, Son said, were not decided by individual leaders but instead by the congresses of the Communist Party of Vietnam every five years. Accordingly, the fact that "one or two figures in the leadership has resigned does not change" much, he explained.

Thuong's ouster should be "welcomed by the international community" and foreign investors, Son added, calling it a sign of the seriousness of Vietnam's "Blazing Furnace" anti-graft campaign.

Thuong, who is 53, resigned as president on Wednesday over corruption in Quang Ngai province between 2010 and 2014, while he was serving as the provincial Communist Party secretary. Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan is now serving as acting president.

Thuong had only been in office for about a year, having replaced former President Nguyen Xuan Phuc in March 2023 after Phuc stepped down to take responsibility for COVID-19 scandals.

Analysts, though, have speculated his downfall may have been engineered by Public Security Minister To Lam, who could have ambitions to become president or even party secretary-general.

The party secretary-general - currently 79-year-old Nguyen Phu Trong, in power since 2011 and the spearhead of the anti-corruption efforts - is the most powerful figure in Vietnam, followed by the prime minister and the largely ceremonial office of president.

Trong's current term as secretary-general ends in 2026.

Deepening ties

At Brookings on Monday, Son also spoke about the "long journey" to friendship Vietnam and America had walked since the 1970s.

He praised the turnaround in relations, noting that trade between the two countries had grown 245 times to US$110 billion since bilateral ties were officially normalized in 1995 under the Clinton administration.

"Mutual trust" and "understanding," he said, is now at a high, marked by last year's upgrading of relations to a "comprehensive strategic partnership" during U.S. President Joe Biden trip to Hanoi.

That was no small feat, he said.

Normalization of ties still took some two decades after the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, Son recalled, with Hanoi and Washington again ending up on opposite sides during the 1980s Cambodian Civil War following Hanoi's 1979 invasion and occupation of Cambodia.

Backed by the Soviet Union, the last Vietnamese troops did not withdraw from Cambodia until September 1989, prior to the 1991 U.N.-run elections there that came with the end of the Cold War.

"After the [Vietnam] War, when Vietnam helped the Cambodian people cope with the genocidal regime of Pol Pot and [Khmer Rouge Foreign Minister] Ieng Sary  again, the international community and our American friends here still did not understand why," Son said.

"From the war, and then misunderstanding of each other for quite some time, we entered normalization 30 years after that," he said.

During his trip to Washington this week, Son also met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. A readout from the State Department said Son and Blinken discussed, among other things, Hanoi's human rights record.

Son alluded to those discussions on Tuesday.

"Although we still have differences, we now have goodwill [and] frank and candid dialogue," he said. "After so many ups and downs, the relationship between our two countries is now a model in international relations, especially for countries currently at war."

Edited by Malcolm Foster.

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Hamas Leader To Travel To Tehran For Meetings With Iranian Officials

By RFE/RL March 26, 2024

The political bureau chief of the U.S.- and EU-designated terrorist group Hamas is slated to visit Tehran on March 26 for high-level meetings with Iranian officials, according to local media.

The official IRNA news agency said Ismail Haniyeh, who is based on Qatar, was scheduled to meet Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, among a slew of other officials.

The trip comes a day after the UN Security Council adopted a resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. Iranian media cited unnamed political pundits as saying that Haniyeh's visit coming after the resolution was "significant."

The United States abstained from the March 25 vote, which upset Israel and prompted it to abruptly cancel the visit of a high-level delegation to Washington this week.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani welcomed the adoption of the resolution but said it was "not enough." He called for "effective measures to implement" the resolution and urged a "complete and permanent cessation" of Israeli attacks against the Hamas-run Gaza Strip.

Israel launched its deadly offensive after Hamas militants attacked Israeli towns on October 7, taking around 250 hostages and killing more than 1,100 people.

Haniyeh's trip will mark his second visit to Tehran since the start of the war. His last visit came in early November, when he met Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The trip was reported only after Hanyieh met Iranian officials.

Iran is a staunch supporter of Hamas and has praised the October 7 attack, but has insisted that it was not involved in its planning and execution.

Hamas is a member of the so-called axis of resistance, a network of Iran's allies and proxies in the region. Some members of the network, particularly Shi'ite militias in Iraq and Syria, have launched attacks on Israel and targeted U.S. troops in the region since the start of the war. Iran maintains that the groups operate independently and rejects the proxy label.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-hamas-leader- haniyeh-meetings-israel-cease-fire/32877816.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Treasury Targets Qods Force, Houthi, and Hizballah Finance and Trade Facilitators

U.S. Department of the Treasury

March 26, 2024

WASHINGTON -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is sanctioning six entities, one individual and two tankers that are based or registered in Liberia, India, Vietnam, Lebanon, and Kuwait that have engaged in facilitating commodity shipments and financial transactions for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF), the Houthis, and Hizballah. This action, the sixth round of sanctions targeting the network of Iran-based, IRGC-QF-backed Houthi financial facilitator Sa'id al-Jamal since December 2023, represents yet another step in a concerted campaign to disrupt IRGC-QF finances and its support to terrorist proxies such as the Houthis.

"Treasury remains resolute in our commitment to deploy our tools against those who seek to fund the illicit activities of the IRGC-QF and its destabilizing proxy groups," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. "The United States will continue to take action to disrupt the abuse of international energy markets to facilitate terrorist activities."

Today's action is being taken pursuant to the counterterrorism authority Executive Order (E.O.) 13224, as amended. OFAC designated Sa'id al-Jamal pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, on June 10, 2021, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, the IRGC-QF. The IRGC-QF was designated pursuant to E.O. 13224 on October 25, 2007, for providing support to multiple terrorist groups. The U.S. Department of State designation of Ansarallah (commonly known as the Houthis) as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group, pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, became effective February 16, 2024.

HOUTHI AND IRGC-QF COMMODITY SHIPMENTS

The Sa'id al-Jamal network uses a web of companies and vessels to facilitate shipments of Iranian commodities through forged shipping documents and other deceptive practices. Liberia-based Hassaleh International Company,the registered owner of the Panama-flagged DAWN II (IMO 9185530), formerly known as the SPAR and AKIN I, worked with Sa'id al-Jamal and his business partner Abdi Nasir Ali Mahamud to ship Iranian commodities to the People's Republic of China (PRC). The Sa'id al-Jamal network coordinated with India-based KNH Shipping Private Limited, also known as KNH Global Private Limited, to procure forged shipping documents to obfuscate the origin of the commodities onboard the DAWN II. KNH Shipping Private Limited has provided extensive services to the Sa'id al-Jamal network through the provision of forged shipping documents and brokering and managing vessels for the network's use.

The Sa'id al-Jamal network has similarly used the Palau-flagged ABYSS (IMO: 9157765) to ship Iranian commodities to the PRC. Like the DAWN II, the ABYSS utilized forged shipping documents to disguise the Iranian origin of its cargo. The ABYSS is owned by Vietnam-based Quoc Viet Marine Transport JSC and operated by India-based Melody Shipmanagement Pvt Ltd.

Hassaleh International Company, KNH Shipping Private Limited, and Quoc Viet Marine Transport JSC are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, Sa'id al-Jamal. Melody Shipmanagement Pvt Ltd is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, Quoc Viet Marine Transport JSC.

The DAWN II is being identified as property in which Hassaleh International Company has an interest. The ABYSS is being identified as property in which Quoc Viet Marine Transport JSC has an interest.

HIZBALLAH AND HOUTHI FINANCIAL FACILITATOR

Lebanon-based Syrian money exchanger Tawfiq Muhammad Sa'id al-Law (al-Law) provided Hizballah with digital wallets to receive funds from IRGC-QF commodity sales, as well as to conduct cryptocurrency transfers on behalf of the sanctioned Syrian Qatirji Company. Al-Law has similarly conducted cryptocurrency transfers for sanctioned Hizballah officials, including Muhammad Ja'far Qasir and Muhammad Qasim al-Bazzal, and has provided financial services to Sa'id al-Jamal and his network.

Al-Law used two Kuwait-based companies, Orchidia Regional for General Trading and Contracting Company and Mass Com Group General Trading and Contracting Company WLL, to transfer money for the purchase of goods supporting Sa'id al-Jamal's network.

Tawfiq Muhammad Sa'id al-Law is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, Hizballah. Orchidia Regional for General Trading and Contracting Company and Mass Com Group General Trading and Contracting Company WLL are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, al-Law.

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, financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions or activities with the sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctions or be subject to an enforcement action. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.

The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the SDN List, but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer toOFAC's Frequently Asked Question 897 here. For detailed information on the process to submit a request for removal from an OFAC sanctions list, please click here.

Click here for more information on the individuals and entities designated today.

###

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UK Forces airdrop over 10 tonnes of food supplies to civilians in Gaza

The Royal Air Force airdropped over 10 tonnes of food supplies into Gaza for the first time on Monday (25 March 2024), as part of international efforts to provide life-saving assistance to civilians.

26 March 2024

The aid, which consists of water, rice, cooking oil, flour, tinned goods and baby formula, will support the people of Gaza.

The Defence Secretary authorised the airdrop following an assessed reduction in threat to the military mission and risk to civilians.

An RAF A400M flew from Amman, Jordan to airdrop this aid along the northern coastline of Gaza, as part of the Jordanian-led international aid mission. UK personnel worked closely with the Royal Jordanian Air Force to plan and conduct this mission.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

The UK has already tripled our aid budget to Gaza, but we want to go further in order to reduce human suffering. Today's airdrop has provided a further way to deliver humanitarian support and I thank the RAF personnel involved in this essential mission, as well as our Jordanian partners for their leadership. The hell that was unleashed by the October 7th Hamas attack has led to wide-scale innocent loss of life. The UK's goal is to use every route possible to deliver life-saving aid, whether that is by road, air or new routes via the sea. We also continue to call on Israel to provide port access and open more land crossings in order to increase incoming aid deliveries to Gaza.

The A400M is a highly capable tactical and strategic airlift platform and today's airdrop was its first ever mission delivering humanitarian aid by parachute. Both RAF and British Army personnel participated in the mission. The drop zones were surveyed before and during the airdrop to ensure aid was delivered directly to civilians.

This airdrop is part of ongoing UK efforts to provide life-saving humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza and follows recent land deliveries of 2,000 tonnes of UK food aid to feed more than 275,000 people and thousands of UK-funded blankets, tents and other relief items, as well as the establishment of a full UK-funded field hospital in Gaza run by British charity UK-Med. The UK remains committed to ensuring aid reaches those who need it most, as Palestinians continue to face a devastating and growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The UK has previously supported international airdrops, providing around 600 parachutes at the request of Jordan and Bahrain and supplying critical aid for a Jordanian airdrop to Tal Al-Hawa Hospital in northern Gaza. Between October and November 2023, the RAF also delivered aid and humanitarian supplies to Egypt for distribution by the Egyptian Red Crescent and UNRWA.

The UK continues to work with allies, including Cyprus, the United States, European Union and United Arab Emirates, to open a direct maritime corridor to Gaza. UK defence planning teams are deployed in the United States and Cyprus to support this international effort and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is prepositioning aid in Cyprus. The UK Hydrographic Office has also shared analysis of the Gazan shore with US planners to help establish a temporary aid pier. In January, the UK worked with Cypriot partners to pre-screen 87 tonnes of aid that was delivered by Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship RFA Lyme Bay to the Egyptian Red Cross for the people of Gaza.

The UK is also focused on ensuring more aid can enter Gaza by land, working closely with Jordan who have been instrumental in facilitating the UK's humanitarian response. Last week, more than 2,000 tonnes of food aid was distributed by the World Food Programme on the ground. This adds to the 150 tonnes of UK-funded relief items, including blankets and tents, which arrived earlier this month, distributed by UNICEF.

Alongside the latest deliveries of aid, the UK has announced a further 10 million in aid funding for the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs), bringing the total spend to over 100 million this financial year. This funding will support UN agencies on the ground to deliver lifesaving aid and will also provide core relief items, such as tents, for the most vulnerable.

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A Bay Area man has been sentenced to 11 months in federal prison for making voice-mail threats against then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Alex Wong/Getty Images

A Bay Area man has been sentenced to 11 months in federal prison for making voice-mail threats against then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, prosecutors said.

U.S. District Judge William Alsup issued the sentence Tuesday despite recommendations from both the prosecution and defense of a term of four years probation with no prison time for Daniel Carrier, who had pleaded guilty to two felony charges in December.

Carrier, now 44, was described in court documents as a vehement foe of illegal immigration and public officials who he believed were allowing it. According to the charges he admitted, on Jan. 21, 2021, he left a profanity-filled message on the voice mail of Pelosi, D-San Francisco, saying, You better resign  cause we got a bullet and a rope with your fing name on it.

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In October 2022, another Pelosi antagonist, David DePape, broke into her Pacific Heights home in San Francisco and attacked her husband, Paul Pelosi, with a hammer. DePape, who testified about his adherence to right-wing conspiracy theories, was convicted of assault and attempted kidnapping of a federal official by a jury last November and is scheduled to be sentenced in April.

In June 2022, Carrier left a voice mail on a message line of the Department of Homeland Security with orders to tell Mayorkas to close the border before we citizens start killing those fing illegal immigrants or we come looking for him and feed him to the dogs.

Carrier then ran a barbershop in Concord but later moved to San Francisco, where he has been working for a local nonprofit sweeping streets and preventing drug overdoses, his lawyer said. While Carrier has made similar phone calls in the past, he quickly came to realize from the very start of this case that he had approached this issue of legitimate concern in the wrong way, Daniel Blank, an attorney with the federal public defenders office, said in a court filing.

As a result, both parties saw the wisdom in a quick resolution of the case, wherein Mr. Carrier accepts responsibility for his offense while the government agrees to recommend a non-custodial sentence, Blank said.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Walsh told Alsup that Carriers outbursts in this case are driven by some combination of mental health issues, substance abuse, and economic and social isolation. Instead of a counterproductive prison sentence, Walsh said, the public interest would be better served by an attentive probation officer empowered to force Mr. Carrier to attend mental health counseling, go to substance abuse treatment, obtain employment, and widen his social circle.

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On Tuesday, however, Alsup sentenced Carrier to 11 months in prison, followed by three years of probation. He also ordered Carrier to undergo treatment for mental illness and drug abuse and to have no contact with Pelosi or Mayorkas. Carrier had been free on bond since his indictment last September.

Participating in the public political conversation is an important right for all citizens, U.S. Attorney Ismail Ramsey said in a statement. Nevertheless, threatening our public servants is not protected by the First Amendment and corrodes our ability to engage in peaceful and important public discourse.
Gaza's Children: Trapped in a Cycle of Suffering

UNICEF

This is a summary of what was said by UNICEF Spokesperson James Elder - to whom quoted text may be attributed - at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva

26 March 2024

GAZA, 26 March 2024 -- "Today I would like to speak about two major issues that people here in Gaza say are central to their survival. The safety of those in Rafah, and aid delivery.

"Today Rafah is unrecognizable because of the congestion, and tents on street corners and sandy plots. People sleep in the streets, in public buildings, in any other available empty space. The global standards for humanitarian emergencies say there should be a maximum of 20 people using one toilet. In Rafah, there is approximately one toilet for every 850 people. For showers, it's four times that number - one shower for every 3600 people. This is a hellish disregard for basic human needs and dignity.

"Those same standards say people need 15 litres of water each, daily, and an absolute minimum of three litres just to survive. When I was here in November, families and children in the Gaza Strip were relying on three litres or less of water per person per day. Today, on average, households surveyed had access to less than one litre of safe water per person per day.

"Neighbouring Khan Yunis is also unrecognizable, though for a different reason - it barely exists anymore. In my 20 years with the United Nations, I have never seen such devastation. Just chaos and ruin, with rubble and debris scattered in every single direction. Utter annihilation.

"Moving around those streets, I was overwhelmed by loss.

"Which takes us back to Rafah. And the endless talk of a large-scale military operation in Rafah. Rafah is a city of children. 600,000 girls and boys there. A military offensive in Rafah? "Offensive" is the right word. Rafah - home to some of Gaza's last remaining hospitals, shelters, markets and water systems.

"And then there is the north. Yesterday I was again in Jabalia. Tens of thousands of people crowd the streets, placing their hands to their mouths - that universal sign for hunger.

"When I came into the Gaza Strip a week ago, there were hundreds of trucks with lifesaving humanitarian aid, waiting to get to people in urgent need, but on the wrong side of the border. Hundreds of UN/INGO trucks are currently backlogged waiting to enter Gaza.

"Remembering, last week's Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) noted famine is imminent in northern Gaza. Gaza now has the largest percentage of a population, anywhere, to receive its most severe rating since the body began reporting in 2004.

"Before this war, child wasting in the Gaza Strip was rare with less than one per cent of children under 5 years of age acutely malnourished. Today one in three children under 2 years are acutely malnourished. Clearly, the north needs massive amounts of food and nutrition treatments, urgently. But let's be clear - our efforts to provide that aid are being hampered.

"There is an existing old crossing point, Erez, that could be used that is 10 minutes from those facing famine. 10 minutes. Open that and we could turn this humanitarian crisis in the north around in a matter of days. But it remains closed.

"Between 1 - 22 March, one-quarter of 40 humanitarian aid missions to northern Gaza were denied. UNRWA is now blocked from delivering food to the north, and yet 50% of food going to the north was delivered by UNRWA.

"Let's be clear: Lifesaving aid is being obstructed. Lives are being lost. Dignity is being denied.

"The deprivation, the forced desperation, means despair pervades the population. And people's nerves are shattered amid unrelenting attacks.

"People often ask if there is still hope. Everything is at extremes here, and that question is no different. On one hand, a mother will tell me that she's lost loved ones, her home and her ability to regularly feed her children; all she has left is hope. Then yesterday, UNICEF sat with adolescents, several of whom said, they were so desperate for their nightmare to end, that they hoped to be killed.

"The unspeakable is regularly said in Gaza. From teenage girls hoping they are killed; to being told a child is the last survivor from their entire family. Such horror is no longer unique here.

"Amid it all, so many brave, generous and tireless Palestinians continue to support one another. And sister UN agencies and UNICEF continue. For UNICEF, we persist for every child. Water, protection, nutrition, and shelter. UNICEF is here.

"As we heard yesterday: the ceasefire must be substantive, not symbolic. The hostages must go home. The people of Gaza must be allowed to live.

"In the three months between my visits, every horrific number rose dramatically. Gaza has shattered humanity's records for its darkest chapters. Humanity must now urgently write a different chapter."

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Gaza: 'Double-digit' number of children reported killed overnight

26 March 2024 - Intense hostilities in Gaza continued on Tuesday between Hamas fighters and Israeli forces with a "double-digit number of children killed overnight" and ongoing aid delivery obstacles that are responsible for near-famine conditions, UN humanitarians said.

The continuing violence came despite an immediate ceasefire call for the remainder of Ramadan from the Security Council on Monday, prompting urgent appeals from UN aid agencies for the resolution to be respected immediately, to prevent more people dying.

Speaking from Rafah in southern Gaza, UN Children's Fund spokesperson James Elder said that 13,750 children have now been killed according to Gaza's health authorities, amid Israeli airstrikes and bombardment launched in response to Hamas-led terror attacks on Israel on 7 October.

Citing reports of "a double-digit number of children killed overnight", Mr. Elder noted that this had happened "only hours after the (Security Council) resolution was passed".

Khan Younis flattened

The southern Gazan city of Khan Younis "barely exists anymore", the UNICEF spokesperson added, before describing the "utter annihilation" of constant Israeli bombardment which has left an unreported number of children and families buried under the rubble of their homes.

"In my 20 years with the UN I have never seen such devastation, it's just chaos, ruin, debris and rubble every single direction, everywhere I look," he said, reporting on his latest aid mission to the north.

Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis - "such a critical place for children with the wounds of war" - is now no longer even operational, the UNICEF official reported, adding that only one-third of Gaza's hospitals are "partially functional" now.

North in crisis

Further north, where a UN World Food Programme (WFP) aid mission secured the passage of 96 trucks carrying relief supplies on Monday - for the first time in five days - Mr. Elder described seeing people making "that universal signal of hand to mouth, desperately asking and seeking for food".

This is despite the fact that hundreds of trucks containing lifesaving humanitarian aid remain over the border in Egypt, UN agencies have pointed out.

Citing respected food insecurity analysis published recently warning of Gaza's "catastrophic decline into imminent famine", the UNICEF official also noted that the agency's own data indicated that one in three children under two years old now suffer from acute malnutrition. Before the conflict, fewer than one in 100 children under five were malnourished, Mr. Elder said.

"This speaks to utter deprivation, this speaks to the devastation of things children rely on - water and health systems - but it also speaks to what the numbers speak to, which is a lethal lack of food and nutrition aid still not getting to the north."

Before the war, around 500 commercial and humanitarian trucks reached the enclave every day, but the average today is around one-third of that number but there have also been periods of "weeks where nothing got into the north", the UNICEF official added.

Health crisis

Echoing deep concerns about the desperate scenes unfolding in Gaza, UN World Health Organization (WHO) spokesperson Tarik Jazarevic reported that most patients at Al Amal hospital in the south have now left the facility.

Media reports indicated that an evacuation order for the facility was issued by the Israeli military, amid intense hostilities in the west of Khan Younis. The situation is also believed to be dire in northern Gaza's Al Shifa Hospital which was also the target of an Israeli military raid, but WHO does not have access there, Mr. Jasarevic said.

"You have health workers dying, you have hospitals that are under siege, you have people who are looking for shelter in these places and if you can't get a shelter at a hospital where else can you go?" he told journalists in Geneva.

Media reports indicated airstrikes overnight into Tuesday near the southernmost city of Rafah where some 1.5 million people now shelter, many after being uprooted from their homes elsewhere in the enclave.

The UN aid coordination office, OCHA, also urged Israel to lift its ban on aid deliveries to the north by UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, echoing earlier calls by the UN Secretary-General.

"We need to dispel this notion that their obligation of getting aid in somehow stops with getting a few trucks - a fraction of what is needed - across the border and then once it's in there as I have seen reported, then it's not our problem any more, it's the UN humanitarian agencies' problem. That is not correct."

He added: "You cannot claim to adhere to these international provisions of law when you block UNRWA food convoys, when you just last week denied five missions to the north, when we have now reports of Israeli attacks on warehouses and the police that are supposed to help secure this aid inside Gaza."

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Rights expert finds 'reasonable grounds' genocide is being committed in Gaza

26 March 2024 - There are "reasonable grounds" to believe that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territories said on Tuesday.

Francesca Albanese was speaking at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, where she presented her latest report, entitled 'Anatomy of a Genocide', during an interactive dialogue with Member States.

"Following nearly six months of unrelenting Israeli assault on occupied Gaza, it is my solemn duty to report on the worst of what humanity is capable of, and to present my findings," she said.

"There are reasonable grounds to believe that the threshold indicating the commission of the crime of genocidehas been met."

Three acts committed

Citing international law, Ms. Albanese explained that genocide is defined as a specific set of acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial or religious group.

"Specifically, Israel has committed three acts of genocide with the requisite intent, causing seriously serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group, deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part, and imposing measures intended to prevent birth within the group," she said.

Furthermore, "the genocide in Gaza is the most extreme stage of a long-standing settler colonial process of erasure of the native Palestinians," she continued.

'A tragedy foretold'

"For over 76 years, this process has oppressed the Palestinians as a people in every way imaginable, crushing their inalienable right to self-determination demographically, economically, territorially, culturally and politically."

She said the "colonial amnesia of the West has condoned Israel's colonial settler project", adding that "the world now sees the bitter fruit of the impunity afforded to Israel. This was a tragedy foretold."

Ms. Albanese said denial of the reality and the continuation of Israel's impunity and exceptionalism is no longer viable, especially in light of the binding UN Security Council resolution, adopted on Monday, which called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Arms embargo and sanctions against Israel

"I implore Member States to abide by their obligations which start with imposing an arms embargo and sanctions on Israel, and so ensure that the future does not continue to repeat itself," she concluded.

Special Rapporteurs and independent experts like Ms. Albanese receive their mandates from the UN Human Rights Council. They are not UN staff and do not receive payment for their work.

Israel 'utterly rejects' report

Israel did not participate in the dialogue but issued a press release stating that it "utterly rejects" Ms. Albanese's report, calling it "an obscene inversion of reality".

"The very attempt to level the charge of genocide against Israel is an outrageous distortion of the Genocide Convention. It is an attempt to empty the word genocide of its unique force and special meaning; and turn the Convention itself into a tool of terrorists, who have total disdain for life and for the law, against those trying to defend against them," the release said.

Israel said its war is against Hamas, not Palestinian civilians.

"This is a matter of explicit government policy, military directives and procedures. It is no less an expression of Israel's core values. As stated, our commitment to uphold the law, including our obligations under international humanitarian law, is unwavering."

'Barbaric aggression continues': Palestine Ambassador

The Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine to the UN in Geneva, Ibrahim Khraishi, noted that the report provides the historic context of genocide against the Palestinian people.

He said Israel "continues its barbaric aggression" and refuses to abide by the decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), issued in January, to take provisional measures in order to prevent the crime of genocide. Israel has also refused to abide by UN General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, including the one adopted on Monday, he added.

"And this means that all recommendations in the report of the Special Rapporteur shall be implemented, and practical measures should be taken to prevent the export of weapons, to boycott Israel commercially and politically, and to implement mechanisms of accountability," he said.

Israeli settlement expansion

Separately, the UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Nada Al-Nashif, presented a report on Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory during the period from 1 November 2022 to 31 October 2023.

"The reporting period has seen a drastic acceleration, particularly after 7 October 2023, of long-standing trends of discrimination, oppression and violence against Palestinians that accompany Israeli occupation and settlement expansion bringing the West Bank to the brink of catastrophe," she said.

There are now around 700,000 Israeli settlers in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, who live in 300 settlements and outposts, all of which are illegal under international humanitarian law.

Expansion of existing settlements

The size of existing Israeli settlements has also expanded markedly, according to the report by the UN human rights office, OHCHR.

Approximately 24,300 housing units within existing Israeli settlements in the West Bank in Area C were advanced or approved during the reporting period - the highest on record since monitoring began in 2017.

The report observed that policies of the current Israeli Government "appear aligned, to an unprecedented extent, with the goals of the Israeli settler movement to expand long-term control over the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and to steadily integrate this occupied territory into the State of Israel," Ms. Al-Nashif said.

Transfer of power

During the reporting period, Israel took steps to transfer administrative powers relating to settlements and land administration from the military authorities to Israeli government offices, whose primary focus is to provide services within the State of Israel.

"The report therefore raises serious concerns that a series of measures, including this transfer of powers to the Israeli civilian officials, could facilitate the annexation of the West Bank in violation of international law, including the Charter of the United Nations," she said.

'Dramatic increase' in violence

There was also a dramatic increase in the intensity, severity and regularity of Israeli settler violence against Palestinians, accelerating their displacement from their land, in circumstances that may amount to forcible transfer.

The UN recorded 835 incidents of settler violence in the first nine months of 2023, the highest on record. Between 7 and 31 October 2023, the UN recorded 203 settler attacks against Palestinians and monitored the killing of eight Palestinians by settlers, all by firearms.

Of the 203 settler attacks, more than a third involved threats with firearms, including shooting. Furthermore, almost half of all incidents between 7 and 31 October involved Israeli forces escorting or actively supporting Israeli settlers while carrying out attacks.

Blurred lines

Ms. Al-Nashif said the line between settler violence and State violence has further blurred, including violence with the declared intent to forcibly transfer Palestinians from their land. She reported that in cases monitored by OHCHR, settlers arrived masked, armed, and sometimes wearing the uniforms of Israeli security forces.

"They destroyed Palestinians' tents, solar panels, water pipes and tanks, hurling insults and threatening that, if Palestinians did not leave within 24 hours, they would be killed," she said.

By the end of the reporting period, Israeli security forces had reportedly handed out some 8,000 weapons to so-called "settlement defence squads" and "regional defence battalions" in the West Bank, she continued.

"After 7 October, the United Nations human rights office documented cases of settlers wearing full or partial Israeli army uniforms and carrying army rifles, harassing and attacking Palestinians, including shooting at them at point-blank range."

Evictions and demolitions

Israeli authorities also continued to implement eviction and demolition orders against Palestinians based on discriminatory planning policies, laws and practices, including on the grounds that properties lacked building permits.

Ms. Al-Nashif said Israel demolished 917 Palestinian-owned structures in the West Bank, including 210 in East Jerusalem, again one of the fastest rates on record. As a result, more than 1,000 Palestinians were displaced.

"It is noteworthy that out of the 210 demolitions in East Jerusalem, 89 were self-demolitions by their owners to avoid paying fines from the Israeli authorities. This epitomizes the coercive environment that the Palestinians live in," she said.

The human rights report also documented Israel's ongoing plan to double the settler population in the Syrian Golan by 2027, which is currently distributed among 35 different settlements.

Beside settlement expansion, commercial activity has been approved, which she said may continue to limit the access of the Syrian population to land and water.

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World News in Brief: Malnutrition crisis risk grows in Haiti, clashes in DR Congo, peacebuilding in Colombia

26 March 2024 - An alarming surge in armed violence in areas of Haiti is heightening the risk of a malnutrition crisis in the country, the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) warned on Tuesday.

Findings from the recent Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis indicate an alarming 19 per cent increase in the number of children estimated to suffer from severe acute malnutrition in Haiti this year.

Around 1.64 million people are facing emergency levels of acute food insecurity, (IPC Phase 4), which increases the risk of child wasting and malnutrition.

The ongoing armed violence across Artibonite department and the West department, which encompasses Port au Prince, has restricted aid delivery and severely weakened an already fragile healthcare system, posing an imminent threat to the lives of over 125,000 children at risk.

"The violence and instability in Haiti have consequences far beyond the risk of the violence itself", said Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director.

The situation is creating a child health and nutrition crisis that could cost the lives of countless of children, she added.

'Thousands of children on the brink'

"Thousands of children are on the brink, while life-saving supplies are ready to be delivered if violence stops and roads and hospitals are opened. This malnutrition crisis is entirely human made," Ms. Russell said.

"Basic security is urgently needed for the people of Haiti, for the life-saving services they rely on, and for humanitarian workers to reach children and families in desperate need."

Since January, the deteriorating security situation has continued to worsen the humanitarian crisis, with serious consequences for UNICEF's ability to store, deliver and resupply aid.

Despite the highly volatile environment, UNICEF is doing all it can to protect families and provide life-saving support, including for those who are trapped and cut off from essential services.

The agency is calling for accelerated efforts by the international community to protect civilians, restore law and order and keep humanitarians safe; an immediate flexible funding boost; and protection for schools, hospitals and other key spaces for children.

DR Congo alert as violent clashes cause new misery in North Kivu

Clashes in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have now uprooted 5.7 million people across North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri provinces.

In an alert, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, said that the violence has reached a devastating new level, with people forced to flee indiscriminate bombing and abuse.

As part of the humanitarian response, UNHCR and partners have provided emergency shelters to more than 40,000 of the most vulnerable people arriving in Goma, the capital of North Kivu.

Trauma and exhaustion

Thousands of core relief kits and 1,000 tarpaulins have also been distributed to those now sheltering outside protection sites. But people are desperate, and the needs are huge, said UNHCR spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh:

"Families continue arriving at sites traumatized and exhausted by the attacks, scarred physically and psychologically. Many report being abused - some sexually - during their flight."

Mr. Saltmarsh called for concerted international action to address the crisis and noted that UNHCR has received just 14 per cent of the $250 million required for its response in the DRC this year.

Colombia: UN expert calls for new policy to cement peace agreement

An international UN human rights expert on Tuesday called on Colombia to implement the historic 2016 Peace Agreement as a new State policy, to help ensure all dialogue processes with non-state armed groups adopt a human rights approach focused on victims.

Antonia Urrejola told the Human Rights Council that obstacles to implementing the accord still remain and made recommendations that could contribute to peacebuilding.

She said there had been progress in some areas of the Peace Agreement, which brought decades of full-scale armed struggle between rebels and government forces to an end, notably in rural reform and transitional justice.

Her report also highlights that 80 per cent of the signatories to the Agreement remain committed to being reintegrated into society, despite the obstacles, and risks to their lives.

Ms. Urrejola is a Chilean national and human rights lawyer who served as Foreign Minister of Chile for three years from March 2022. Her position was mandated by the Council to examine obstacles to implementing the Peace Agreement.

Roadmap needs course correction

The 2016 Peace Agreement provides a roadmap to address the structural causes of the conflict and ensure non-repetition, the report notes, emphasizing that the State's human rights obligations must be implemented progressively and independently of the political climate of the day.

"The stigma attached to the peace signatories was reinforced, their internal division accelerated, and their reintegration, as provided for in the Agreement, was affected", the report contends.

"At the same time, it created doubts about the suitability and impartiality of the members of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace".

Ms. Urrejola called for the creation of a new high-level Government position to oversee the implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement and government approach, ensure effective institutional coordination and provide adequate financial resources.

She also requests the Government to implement, as a priority, a policy for tackling organized crime: "The dismantling of criminal structures and the fight against corruption are fundamental pillars for the consolidation of peace."

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UN envoy backs demand for immediate Gaza ceasefire amid 'cataclysmic suffering'

26 March 2024 - The UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process on Tuesday issued a fervent plea for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and release of all hostages, amid "cataclysmic" suffering in the Gaza Strip and continuing violence in the occupied West Bank.

The call by Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland followed Monday's adoption by the Security Council of a resolution "demanding" an immediate ceasefire in the enclave for the remainder of Ramadan, and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

However, intense hostilities have continued between Israeli forces and Hamas fighters, with reports of many killed overnight, including children.

Briefing ambassadors in the Council, he reiterated the UN's frequent condemnation of the brutal 7 October attacks by Hamas and other groups on communities in southern Israel, stressing that "nothing can justify these acts of terror".

Immense scale of death, suffering

He said he was "appalled" by the immense scale of death, destruction and suffering wrought by Israel's military campaign in Gaza, with civilian killings at a rate that is unprecedented.

"Nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people," he emphasized.

"The life-threatening conditions facing the more than 1.7 million internally displaced persons within an ever-diminishing space in Gaza must be addressed immediately. I am extremely concerned by the possible nightmare of more than one million people being displaced again if Israel proceeds with its planned ground operation in Rafah."

Protect humanitarians

With an "imminent" famine in the north and "horrifying" levels of suffering across Gaza, Mr. Wennesland called on Israel to fulfil its obligations under international law, and facilitate rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access into and throughout the Strip.

He noted that humanitarian work in Gaza is extremely dangerous and that aid convoys continue to face attacks, he stressed that the UN and aid partners must be able to deliver assistance safely.

"This means that humanitarian locations, movements, and workers must be protected more effectively, and that the UN be allowed the equipment it needs to increase staff safety."

The Special Coordinator also welcomed the opening of a maritime corridor to deliver vital additional humanitarian assistance by sea, but reiterated that "for aid delivery at scale there is no meaningful substitute to delivery by land".

Alarm over attacks in West Bank

Turning his attention to the occupied West Bank, Mr. Wennesland expressed deep concern over continued violence and casualties, urging Israeli security forces to exercise maximum restraint.

"I am alarmed by attacks carried out by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, including in the proximity of Israeli Security Forces," he said, adding that attacks by Palestinians against Israelis must also cease.

"All perpetrators must be held accountable."

Mr. Wennesland also emphasized the importance of upholding the status quo at Holy Sites in Jerusalem, particularly during Ramadan.

"I note that prayers at the Holy Sites have proceeded with some minimal confrontations thus far, and welcome all efforts to preserve calm. All sides must refrain from unilateral steps that would escalate tensions during this sensitive time," he urged.

Expansion of Israeli settlements

Mr. Wennesland also raised alarm over the relentless expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and demolition and seizure of Palestinian structures.

"The ever-expanding settlement footprint, including outposts, further entrenches the occupation, while severely impeding the exercise by the Palestinian people of its right to self-determination," he said, reiterating that Israeli settlements "have no legal validity, and are in in flagrant violation of international law.

The Special Coordinator also voiced concern over the ailing Palestinian economy, calling on the international community to extend fiscal relief to the Palestinian Authority (PA), and on the PA to continue carrying out crucial reform.

Two-State solution

Mr. Wennesland underscored the importance of helping strengthen the PA to enable it to effectively govern.

"Ultimately, any substantial solution for Gaza, and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict, is political," he said.

"It is imperative to set the conditions for an agreed political framework that can outline tangible, irreversible steps towards ending the occupation and establishing a two-State solution - Israel and Palestine, of which Gaza is an integral part, living side-by-side in peace and security, on the basis of UN resolutions, previous agreements, and international law, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States."

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UNRWA: EUR 45 million in new contributions from Germany for services to Palestine Refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and the West Bank

UNRWA

26 Mar 2024

UNRWA welcomes an announcement by the Government of Germany that it is providing EUR 45 million in new contributions to the Agency's work in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and the West Bank.

"With these new contributions, Germany is now our top donor, something I am deeply grateful for. Germany's solidarity with UNRWA is a proof of its commitment to contributing to the human development of Palestine Refugees, and to their right to a dignified life," said UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini.

The new funds include EUR 15 million to support essential health and education services to Palestine Refugees in Jordan and Lebanon, and EUR 7 million for cash-for-work activities for Palestine Refugees in Lebanon, both from the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). In addition, they will include EUR 23 million for emergency cash assistance to Palestine Refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, and for general food assistance in the West Bank, from the Federal Foreign Office.

Additional support by Germany to UNRWA, namely for its operations in the Gaza Strip, will depend on the progress of an ongoing investigation by the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services into allegations made by the Israeli Authorities against 12 of UNRWA's 30,000 staff, as well as on the results and recommendations of a separate Independent Review of the Agency.

ENDs --

Notes to Editors

Germany has been a dedicated supporter of UNRWA since 1952 and is the Agency's second largest donor globally, with a total of EUR 197 million provided in 2023.

In 2023, Germany was the largest donor for emergency food aid in Gaza with a total of EUR 81 million as well as the largest contributor to the Emergency Appeal for Syria, with EUR 30 million.

With the new contributions announced by BMZ and the Federal Foreign Office, Germany's total support for UNRWA will reach EUR 48 million so far for 2024.

Germany has been a member of the UNRWA Advisory Commission since 2005.

Background Information:

UNRWA is the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. The United Nations General Assembly established UNRWA in 1949 with a mandate to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to registered Palestine refugees in the Agency's area of operations pending a just and lasting solution to their plight.

UNRWA operates in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, The Gaza Strip, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria.

Tens of thousands of Palestine refugees who lost their homes and livelihoods due to the 1948 conflict continue to be displaced and in need of support, nearly 75 years on.

UNRWA helps Palestine Refugees achieve their full potential in human development through quality services it provides in education, health care, relief and social services, protection, camp infrastructure and improvement, microfinance, and emergency assistance. UNRWA is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions.

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US, China at Odds Over Gaza Cease-Fire Resolution

By Akmal Dawi March 26, 2024

The United States and China, both permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, disagree on the status of Monday's resolution calling for a cease-fire in Gaza during the final two weeks of Ramadan.

The U.S. abstained from voting, while all other UNSC members supported Resolution 2728, which also calls for the immediate release of hostages and the removal of obstacles hindering humanitarian access.

"It's nonbinding," Mathew Miller, spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, told reporters on Tuesday.

Miller said the resolution "does not impose any new obligations on the parties."

This position sharply contrasts with that of China.

"Security Council resolutions are binding," Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said on Tuesday.

Without explicitly mentioning the U.S. and Israel, Lin stated, "We anticipate that the state wielding significant influence will positively impact the concerned party."

In recent months, both the U.S. and China have vetoed multiple resolutions designed to tackle the conflict in Gaza.

"There is no question that the U.N. Security Council resolution is binding," said Kenneth Roth, former executive director of Human Rights Watch.

"The language of the resolution is obligatory," Roth, now a professor at Princeton University, wrote to VOA.

Lea Brilmayer, a professor at Yale Law School, said the UNSC has the power to issue both binding and nonbinding resolutions.

"The question whether a particular resolution is binding is not possible to answer with complete certainty," Brilmayer told VOA.

"It is particularly difficult to decide the question when the different countries sitting on the Security Council have different positions on the matter. In such cases, there is no shared intent about what the resolution is designed to do."

Israel says no to resolution

Amid the U.S.-China disagreement, Israel says it will not abide by the resolution.

"The state of Israel will not cease fire," Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz wrote on his verified X account.

Gilad Erdan, Israel's representative to the U.N., strongly criticized UNSC members for adopting the resolution.

"For you, the blood of Israelis is cheap. It's ridiculous and I'm disgusted by what's happening here!"

At least 32,000 Palestinians, many of them children, have been killed by Israel's military response to the October 7 Hamas attack that killed about 1,200 people in Israel, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned against noncompliance with the resolution.

"This resolution must be implemented. Failure would be unforgivable," he wrote on X.

Despite saying the resolution is nonbinding, the State Department's Miller said it should be respected.

"It carries weight," he said.

Experts say the U.S. position implies that by not abiding by the resolution, Israel would face no consequences.

"The Security Council has the responsibility of enforcing it," Brilmayer said.

The UNSC has imposed sanctions on some countries that have defied its resolutions.

"If Biden pretends that the Security Council resolution is nonbinding, he is telling not only Israel that it doesn't have to stop bombing and starving Palestinian civilians but also Hamas that it doesn't have to release the hostages," said Roth.

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Israel-US Diplomatic Spat Complicates Gaza Situation

By Anita Powell March 26, 2024

White House officials said Monday that they were "perplexed" and "disappointed" that Israel's leader called off a delegation meant to discuss U.S. concerns about his imminent plans to invade the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

But they said Monday they would use a trio of high-level U.S. meetings with Israel's defense minister, including talks with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday, to press their case.

"We're kind of perplexed by this," said White House national security communications adviser John Kirby, who acknowledged that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's reason for abruptly pulling back his delegation was his objection to the U.S. decision to abstain from a Monday U.N. vote calling for a Gaza cease-fire.

"In light of the change in the American position, Prime Minister Netanyahu decided the delegation would not leave," his office said in a statement.

The U.S., citing its support for Israel's right to defend itself, has previously wielded its veto power in the U.N. Security Council to block similar cease-fire calls since the start of the conflict more than five months ago.

"Our vote does not  I repeat  does not represent a shift in our policy," Kirby said. "We've been very clear. We've been very consistent in our support for a cease-fire as part of a hostage deal. That's how the hostage deal was structured, and the resolution acknowledges the ongoing talks."

But he also noted  repeating the term no fewer than six times  that the U.N. vote is "a nonbinding resolution." That, he said, means "there's no impact at all on Israel and Israel's ability to continue to go after Hamas."

Meanwhile, as Kirby spoke on Monday afternoon, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant met with President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, at the White House.

"We had a constructive discussion on how best to ensure Hamas' lasting defeat in Gaza," Sullivan said on X. "I conveyed President Biden's iron-clad support for Israel's security and defense against all threats, including Iran. I welcomed Yoav's commitment to take additional steps to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza."

Gallant also met Monday afternoon with Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who expressed U.S. support for ensuring the defeat of Hamas but reiterated opposition to a ground operation in Rafah that could endanger the Palestinian civilians sheltering there.

"The Secretary underscored that alternatives exist to a major ground invasion that would both better ensure Israel's security and protect Palestinian civilians," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. "Secretary Blinken also discussed the need to immediately surge and sustain additional humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of civilians in Gaza."

Ahead of Gallant's planned Tuesday meeting with Austin, Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder also said a Rafah invasion would be a "mistake."

"It would be a mistake not just because of the civilian harm that it would cause, which would be immense," he said. "We also think that this type of invasion would weaken Israel's security. It would make Israel less safe, not more safe. It would undermine its standing in the world."

Austin, he said, "still believes fundamentally in Israel's inherent right to defend themselves and that we will continue to support them in that regard and that that support is ironclad."

He added: "There are ways to go about addressing the threat of Hamas while also taking into account civilian safety."

VOA asked Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, how this flurry of high-level diplomacy could affect Israel's plans to mount a large-scale operation in the crowded city of Rafah.

"Israel wasn't ready to move on Rafah, and it's still not," he told VOA. "I'm sure that the Israelis have concluded that they need to demonstrate they're ready to go into Rafah, even if they eventually don't."

And, he said, "I can imagine any number of ways that Israel could feel it both met its needs and addressed U.S. concerns. Whether Israel will want to do that, and whether the United States would consider its concerns to be addressed, depends how things unfold."

And, analysts say, what happens in Rafah has much wider consequences, for both countries and their leaders.

"Israel will be even further isolated if it goes forward with the attack on Rafah," Trita Parsi, executive vice president of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, told VOA. "But it will also add tremendous pressure on Biden at home to stop Israel."

And, he said, Gallant's decision to proceed with his Washington meetings also has political implications.

"Biden is seeking to split the Israeli government and isolate Netanyahu," he said. "Ironically, Netanyahu calculates that a fight with Biden benefits him, as he will be able to rally right-wing voters in Israel to his side."

Merissa Khurma, director of the Middle East Program at the Wilson Center, noted that this complex political and diplomatic dance still means one thing: Washington and Jerusalem are talking.

"Gallant taking the meeting with Blinken showcases that both governments are aware dialogue has to continue," she said, "and that canceling the delegation is more about Bibi [Netanyahu] and his political standing with the right-wing factions and the Israeli public who support this war."

VOA's Jeff Seldin and Nike Ching contributed to this report.

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US Eyes April 18 to Potentially Resume Sudan Peace Talks in Jeddah

By Nike Ching March 26, 2024

The United States is eyeing April 18 for the potential resumption of Sudan peace talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as part of Washington's efforts to mitigate a dire humanitarian disaster and prevent the conflict from escalating into a regional war.

Nearly a year into Sudan's civil war, the country is grappling with the world's largest internal displacement crisis.

Tom Perriello, U.S. special envoy for Sudan, told reporters on Tuesday that these talks need to be "inclusive," involving the African Union, the East African bloc IGAD, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.

"We need the partners in the room who are necessary to get this war to end," he said.

Perriello warned that the conflict in Sudan is not just a disaster for civilians but could easily become "a more factionalized and regional war."

"There's an important donor conference in Paris on the 15th," Perriello said, referring to a planned ministerial meeting in April to relieve Sudan's humanitarian crisis. "And we would certainly see natural momentum from that to return to Jeddah if the Saudis are indeed going to host inclusive talks."

The United States and Saudi Arabia have brokered multiple cease-fires between Sudan's warring parties and facilitated talks in Jeddah last year, but the negotiations stumbled amid competing international peace efforts.

The United Nations, the African Union and regional group IGAD have all appointed special representatives on Sudan. Gulf states have also convened a series of meetings in Jeddah and in Bahrain's capital, Manama.

Fighting erupted in April last year between the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Once allies in Sudan's transitional government after a 2021 coup, the two generals have turned into rivals for power.

U.S. officials have said their priority in Sudan is to secure a peace deal that immediately ends the violence, ensures full humanitarian access to all citizens and facilitates the country's return to civilian governance.

In January, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions targeting entities funding the conflict in Sudan. However, analysts have pointed out the challenges faced by Washington and the constraints of time.

"A political appointee arriving in the job in potentially the last year of the [Biden] administration he serves is dealing from a weak deck already," said Cameron Hudson, a senior associate at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. "The possibility that his interlocutors could simply choose to wait him out is quite real."

He added that attempts to merge various peace initiatives are "likely not a productive use of time given the calamitous state of Sudan's fighting and humanitarian situations."

The war has led to thousands of deaths, a massive displacement crisis and large-scale atrocities, particularly against non-Arab communities in the country's Darfur region.

On March 8, the U.N. Security Council adopted a resolution calling for a cease-fire for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, but the warring parties have ignored it.

Sudan is now home to the world's largest internal displacement crisis, with 6.3 million people forced from their homes in search of safety. Another 1.7 million have fled to neighboring countries. More than 70% of health facilities in conflict areas have stopped functioning.

U.S. officials have also warned that Sudan's civil war could trigger the world's largest hunger crisis.

"I am headed to the refugee camps in Chad with a CODEL [congressional delegation] that's going in a couple of days. Even in those camps, there are children who are living on less than one meal a day," said Perriello, referring to refugee camps in Chad that take in Sudanese civilians.

Last week, the United States announced over $47 million in humanitarian assistance for the emergency response in Sudan and neighboring countries, including Chad and South Sudan.

VOA's Margaret Besheer contributed this report from the United Nations.





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11 Argentines Given Life Sentences for Dictatorship-Era Abuses

March 26, 2024

Judges overseeing a high-profile human rights trial in Argentina convicted 11 former officials of crimes against humanity on Tuesday, in the first case to focus on the former military dictatorship's overlooked practice of committing sexual violence against transgender women.

The trial at the court in La Plata, a southern suburb of the capital, spanned nearly four years and added new details and insight to previously chronicled atrocities, deepening the nation's understanding of its traumatic history. Transgender plaintiffs took the witness stand for the first time in a series of chilling hearings that put a spotlight both on the suffering of the transgender community and on the widespread tactic of sexual violence under the right-wing dictatorship that ruled Argentina from 1976 to 1983.

Human rights groups estimate that 30,000 people suspected of opposing the military government were abducted, systematically tortured in clandestine detention centers and "disappeared" during the time.

In the highly anticipated verdict, 10 defendants were sentenced to life in prison and one to 25 years in prison for their roles in a scheme of violent repression that included killing, torture, sexual violence and the abduction of children born in captivity, among other alleged crimes that took place across four clandestine detention centers in the province of Buenos Aires. The judges acquitted one former official.

"What is different about this trial is that for the first time in Argentina and in the world, crimes against humanity committed against trans women in the context of state terrorism are condemned," prosecutor Ana Oberlin told The Associated Press. "It was a good verdict, we are more than satisfied."

The military dictatorship promoted traditional Catholic values and viewed LGBTQ Argentines as subversives in the heterosexual society. Even being openly gay could lead to jail.

Tuesday's trial involved 600 victims and testimonies from hundreds of witnesses that dredged up accounts of sexual abuse specifically targeting transgender women, as well as cases of soldiers stealing babies from their detained mothers before handing them over for adoption to members of the dictatorship and their loyalists. A former police doctor who oversaw the births of women in captivity was among those who received a life sentence.

Hundreds of men and women in Argentina have grown up with false identities, oblivious to their true origins as the children of the "disappeared."

Eight of the plaintiffs recounted being raped and tortured in one of Argentina's largest clandestine detention centers known as the Banfield Pit.

The shouts of "Genocidal, genocidal!" erupted in the courtroom packed with survivors and victims' relatives. After the verdict was read out, they wept and embraced. Many held portraits of their disappeared loved ones and posters with the slogan: "There are 30,000" and "It was a genocide."

The verdict comes as far-right President Javier Milei and his vice president, Victoria Villarruel, have challenged the legal reckoning of human rights abuses committed during the dictatorship, an effort that was championed by their left-wing predecessors. Argentine human rights organizations have raised particular concern over Villarruel's family ties to the military and activism for victims of crimes committed by leftist guerrillas in the early 1970s. Victims of the dictatorship view that advocacy as implicitly justifying the state repression that followed.

Villarruel and Milei have publicly cast doubt on the toll of 30,000 disappeared, pointing to an independent commission that could identify only 8,960.

Most of the defendants in Tuesday's trial have already been convicted in other cases and transferred to house arrest because of their age and deteriorating health. They tuned into the hearing by video call. The court ordered the defendants under house arrest to undergo new medical exams to determine if they could go back to prison.

Since the Argentine government in 2004 repealed amnesty laws that protected former soldiers, the country's courts have handed down 321 sentences for crimes against humanity and convicted 1,176 people. The landmark effort to hold military leaders accountable for past abuses continues, with more than a dozen trials still underway in the country.

Activists hailed Tuesday's verdict as a long-overdue step forward for Argentina's transgender rights movement, which gained unprecedented momentum under the socially liberal former President Alberto Fernandez.

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Mayor London Breed speaks at a campaign fundraiser aimed at women voters in the Presidio Heights neighborhood in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. Adam Pardee/Special to The Chronicle

Mayor London Breed is holding the first major fundraiser of her 2024 campaign Wednesday night, and the theme is one her campaign will focus on until Election Day: rallying women behind her.

Backed by the top female Democrats in the state, including Sen. Laphonza Butler, Secretary of State Shirley Weber, state Controller Malia Cohen, Oakland Rep. Barbara Lee, state Treasurer Fiona Ma, Oakland Assembly Member Buffy Wicks and others, the $500-a-head Women for Mayor London Breed fundraiser is the first salvo in an attempt to consolidate San Franciscos female voters behind the citys first Black female mayor.

It is a sign that the Breed campaign is making outreach to women a central part of its focus, as Breed is likely to be the only major female candidate in the race, which also includes former mayor and supervisor Mark Farrell, nonprofit executive Daniel Lurie and Supervisor Ahsha Safai. Supervisor Aaron Peskin is also expected to run.

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There is also the historic aspect of Breeds mayorship. Not only is she San Franciscos first Black female mayor, she is one of only eight Black women who lead one of the nations 100 most populous cities.

Mayor London Breed waves to a young child at a campaign fundraiser aimed at women voters in the Presidio Heights neighborhood in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. Adam Pardee/Special to The Chronicle

But organizers say the desire to back Breed is not just rooted in history. It is in support of the job shes done and the perspective she offers.

The conversation is not going to be like, Im a woman, vote for me because Im a woman. Not at all, said Heidi Sieck, a former national fundraising chair for Kamala Harris presidential campaign who has worked for four San Francisco mayors and is organizing Breeds female voter outreach efforts.

Its around life perspective. It is about understanding struggle. Its compassion and empathy, Sieck said of Breed, who grew up in public housing. Shes very curious about peoples lived experience. She just has a different life story and a different perspective.

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Breed will need all the support she can get as she tries to change public perceptions of her after more than six years on the job.

A January poll commissioned by the Chronicle found that 71% disapprove of the mayors job performance.

Even more daunting for Breed is that 35% of respondents said she would be their fourth choice among the four major announced candidates. Thats at least five times as many as those who feel the same way about her top competitors, Farrell and Lurie. Peskin was not included in the survey.

So Breeds campaign is rounding up Californias top female leaders to show their support.

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San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins speaks with guests at a campaign fundraiser for Mayor London Breed aimed at women voters in the Presidio Heights neighborhood in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. Adam Pardee/Special to The Chronicle

And one of the 200-plus expected attendees at Wednesdays San Francisco fundraiser may raise eyebrows in some quarters: BART Board Director Lateefah Simon, who sits on the board of Tipping Point Community, the anti-poverty foundation founded by Lurie.

Ive been supporting London since the beginning of her race, and I feel like I want to see her get a chance to just get it done, Simon told me. Breed and Lurie both have excellent ideas. And I think they both love the city.

But Simons ties run deep with Breed. They both grew up in San Francisco housing projects, and have known each other since high school when Simon, 47, recalls seeing Breed, 49, on the bus every single day. Simon attended George Washington High School while Breed went to Galileo. Breed was the first mayor in 50 years to have graduated from public high school in San Francisco. The two talk at least once a week, Simon said.

Mayor London Breed greets and hugs a guest at a campaign fundraiser aimed at women voters in the Presidio Heights neighborhood in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. Adam Pardee/Special to The Chronicle

Everyone in our community knew that London was a smart girl. Folks had the hopes and dreams for London, Simon said. It was very widely known that this tough girl was going to college. A lot of us, you know, didnt really have those expectations for ourselves.

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That said, Simon, a progressive who is the front-runner to succeed Lee in Oakland, said, London and I dont agree on a ton of things. She is a tough-love, no-nonsense kind of girl. I spent a majority of my career working literally in prisons and jails and on the streets with young people.

Nevertheless, Simon said, she deeply respects how she moves.

Cohen, 46, who succeeded Breed as president of the Board of Supervisors after Breed was elected mayor in 2018, has known Breed since they worked on Gavin Newsoms 2003 campaign for mayor.

Cohen lauded Breed for appointing other women to other top positions, including Brooke Jenkins as district attorney.

California State Controller Malia Cohen describes her reasons why she is voting for Mayor London Breed at a campaign fundraiser aimed at women voters in the Presidio Heights neighborhood in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. Adam Pardee/Special to The Chronicle

A vote for London would really be a vote empowering that female voice for women that feel invisible, women that feel disempowered, women that feel like they dont matter, Cohen said. And I think that London really embodies that and has experienced all of that in her lifetime and is cognizant of it when shes making decisions.

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Major female donors including Karla Jurvetson and Susie Tompkins Buell are also stepping up for Breed. Buell, who has been a top Democratic donor since the Clinton administration, is tapped into one of the nations premier fundraising networks. She has already given $10,000 to an independent committee supporting Breeds reelection.

Jurvetson, a Los Altos physician and philanthropist, gave $11.6 million to support Democrats in the 2022 election cycle, according to Open Secrets, a site that tracks campaign contributions.

The mayors contest is likely to become a financial arms race. A committee supporting Lurie, an heir to the Levi Strauss fortune, has raised $3.2 million, including $1 million from Luries mother, Miriam Haas. His campaign has raised an additional $520,462. Breeds campaign and independent groups have raised a combined $1.3 million.
UNICEF: Climate Change Leaves 'Dire Situation' for 45 Million African Children

By Columbus Mavhunga March 26, 2024

The United Nations children's fund says there is a "dire situation" in several eastern and southern African countries, where at least 45 million children are dealing with severe food insecurity made worse by climate change.

In a statement, Eva Kadilli, the UNICEF director for eastern and southern Africa, said millions of people are living through multiple and often overlapping crises intensified by the 2023-24 El Nino weather phenomenon, one of the strongest on record.

Christiane Rudert, a nutrition adviser for UNICEF in eastern and southern Africa, told VOA that many countries in her region have very high rates of child stunting or acute malnutrition. She said the rates are getting worse because of extreme weather patterns, such as a prolonged heat wave and drought, associated with climate change.

"For example, in Malawi, affected by the current El Nino phenomenon, data from the routine nutrition program showed a worsening of the nutrition status of children and increased admissions for acute malnutrition," Rudert said. "Almost half of the 21 countries are at the very highest risk of climate change impacts for children in this region. Even small gains in nutrition are now being reversed before our eyes."

Wongani Grace Taulo, UNICEF regional education adviser for eastern and southern Africa, said UNICEF is attempting to help children and their families learn ways of coping with climate change through the schools.

"UNICEF is working with partners, but specifically governments, [other] U.N. agencies, civil society, and communities to integrate climate education into the education system, particularly on infrastructure, the use of renewable energy and waste management," Taulo said.

"Let me mention Zimbabwe, where we are working with the government on the clean green schools initiative," Taulo added, "where all aspects of climate change strategies are actually integrated into how we are delivering education from the school to the community and creating an ecosystem that is going to be able to address the effects of climate change."

While that may help southern Africa in the long term, many Zimbabweans are concerned with their situation here and now.

Elita Ncube said her family is living in poverty, and her three children struggle to go to school because of irregular meals.

She said there is nothing to eat from the fields. In the past, she said, she has survived by selling mopane worms, but this year there is nothing to sell. Her animals have no water to drink, and her goats and cattle will die, she said.

Ncube once had donors that helped with food, she added, and she wishes they would return, or at least give her work to do in exchange for food.

July Moyo, the minister of social welfare, said Tuesday that Zimbabwe's government will not rush to join Malawi and Zambia in declaring the current drought a national disaster.

Moyo said there is no scientific reason to warrant a disaster declaration.

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South Sudan Opposition Parties Criticize New Election Laws

By Sheila Ponnie March 26, 2024

A new electoral regulation in South Sudan has received harsh criticism from opposition parties that see the move as a way to lock them out of the forthcoming general election that will be a first for the world's youngest nation.

Key opposition parties in South Sudan have termed a contentious electoral law as a scheme by the government to keep them out of upcoming elections in December.

The Coalition of Opposition Parties presented a petition to the country's Political Party Council Monday demanding revocation of the $50,000 registration fee imposed on parties seeking to field candidates in the upcoming polls.

The world's youngest nation is set to have its first democratically elected government in December this year.

But parties like the People's Progressive Party, SSOA, Coalition of Opposition Parties and United People's Party now see the newly registration fee as an attempt by the government to stifle democracy and restrict the participation of opposition parties in the polls.

Opposition politician Lam Akol is the leader of the National Democratic Movement (NDM) and had challenged President Salva Kiir in the first election held in 2010 when South Sudan was seceding from Sudan.

"How many parties will afford $50,000?" he said

In 2010 parties had been required to pay about $150 as a registration fee.

Riek Machar, chairperson of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO), the main opposition party in the transitional government, blames President Kiir's side of the government for failing the people of South Sudan. Machar insists that they will not take part in the election unless all the pending chapters in the peace agreement are fully implemented.

Opposition leaders also say they don't have faith in the local judicial process should they feel the need to challenge the outcome of the election. Gabriel Akok, chairperson of the People's Progressive Party (PPP), claims that, as currently constituted the judiciary is controlled by government sympathizers.

"Considering the current situation in South Sudan, we are not sure, everyone is not quite sure that we can petition the election results when they are not free and fair, simply because the judiciary is headed by an active member of the SPLM, the current ruling political party in South Sudan," said Akok.

South Sudan is currently under a transitional government whose term is set to end with the election in December.

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Supporters Want Cameroon's Four-Decade President, 91, to Run Again

By Moki Edwin Kindzeka March 26, 2024

Supporters are urging the world's oldest leader, 91-year-old Cameroonian President Paul Biya, to run for office in the 2025 presidential election, potentially extending his more than four-decade rule.

They say Biya is the only one who can bring peace and development to the country, but the opposition says Biya must leave office after running Cameroon for decades.

Several hundred people sang in Cameroon's capital, Yaounde, on Sunday, calling for Biya to accept the nomination of the Cameroon Peoples Democratic Movement, or CPDM party, in the 2025 presidential election.

Biya created the CPDM on March 24, 1985, three years after his predecessor, Cameroon's first president, Ahmadou Ahidjo, stepped down due to ill health and handed power to Biya.

Biya has been president of Cameroon since 1982 and leader of his party since 1985.

During the party's 39th anniversary on Sunday, party officials organized rallies in all Cameroon towns and villages to ask people to support Biya as their candidate in the 2025 elections.

Senior CPDM official Fru Jonathan described Biya as the party's natural candidate, saying there is peace, unity and economic growth in the country. Jonathan said Biya is strong and healthy.

"We think that you don't change a winning team," Jonathan said. "If there is any challenger, let him come up, but we have not seen any challenger who can beat our candidate, so we all rely on him and call on him to continue to rule and bring our country to emergence as that is his vision."

Biya has not said if he will be a candidate.

Cameroon senior state functionaries appointed by Biya, along with Biya's party officials, credit the long-serving leader for constructing at least 6,000 kilometers of roads, providing electricity and water to towns and villages, and building several hundred classrooms and hospitals.

But Cameron's opposition and civil society disagree with that positive assessment, saying under Biya the Cameroon Bank and the Fund for Agricultural Development created to fund farmers' projects crumbled.

The opposition also says corruption has become widespread during Biya's rule, with Transparency International ranking Cameroon as the most corrupt country in 1998 and 1999.

Cabral Libii, 44, an opposition parliamentarian with Cameroon's Party for National Reconciliation, or PCRN, placed third in Cameroon's 2018 presidential elections.

Libii said Cameroonian youth will not continue to watch Biya cripple the economy, deprive civilians of their liberties and freedoms, and rule Cameroon with an iron fist while now showing signs of being ruler for life.

He said Biya is the cause of sorrows brought about by extremely high unemployment, underemployment and crises in the English-speaking western regions that have claimed more than 6,000 lives.

Libii said Cameroon opposition and civil society are organizing themselves to present a candidate to oust Biya, whom they describe as elderly and frail to the point he is hardly seen in public.

Libii said Cameroon needs young dynamic leaders to salvage the country from underdevelopment.

Opponents said many youths were hired to take part in rallies to give the false impression that Biya is popular.

Both the government and Biya's CPDM party officials deny that civilians, especially poor youth, were hired.

At 91, Biya is the oldest leader in the world and the second-longest-serving president after his neighbor, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea.

Biya's party says he has won all presidential elections since the return of multiparty politics in Cameroon in 1990, but the opposition says previous elections have been marred by fraud.

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Food assistance to refugees in Cameroon at risk of halt amid funding shortages

World Food Programme

26 March 2024

YAOUNDE -- The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) are today warning that vital food assistance to refugees in Cameroon's Far North, Adamawa, East and North regions is at risk of grinding to a halt due to funding shortfalls.

Funding shortfalls had already forced WFP to cut rations for refugees to 50 percent in the Far North, Adamawa, East and North regions of Cameroon and to distribute incomplete food baskets since end 2023, missing some items such as pulses, vegetable oil and salt. These measures are already exposing the refugee communities to higher vulnerability and limiting their access to diverse and nutritious meals.

""Without immediate support we will have no option but to further cut the already meagre portions on refugees' plates, with all the devastating impacts this will bring including rising malnutrition and hunger, exposure to protection risks and families resorting to desperate strategies to cope, including pulling children out of school and eating less food - affecting especially women and children," said Wanja Kaaria, WFP Representative and Country Director in Cameroon.

"We are grateful for generous donor funding in Cameroon and we are hopeful that donors will step up and help address our funding gaps, helping us to avoid further cuts to those who have already lost everything due to conflict, violence and natural disasters," she added.

WFP requires US$ 23.1 million to assist to over 222,000 refugees from Nigeria and the Central African Republic (CAR) currently hosted in Cameroon, funding that will ensure the life-saving humanitarian assistance can continue through December 2024.

Most refugee families rely on WFP food assistance to survive. WFP food assistance has already been re-prioritized to the focus on the most vulnerable people, of whom the majority are women, female-headed households, elderly persons, persons with disability, and unaccompanied children.

"The food ration cut is a forecast of the escalating protection crises in Cameroon which is now affecting the most basic human right of the forcibly displaced people in the country - the right to food. We are deeply concerned that further ration cuts may disrupt the existing social cohesion as we received reports of the outcry of the refugee communities. Thus, we appeal to donor governments to support refugees in accessing the much-needed food and remain healthy," said UNHCR Representative to Cameroon, Olivier Guillaume Beer.

For over a decade, Cameroon has faced three complex, intertwined, and protracted humanitarian crises that have remained largely underfunded. As of December 2023, 4.7 million people needed humanitarian assistance, with over two million on the move as refugees, internally displaced people and returnees.

Food insecurity in the country affects 2.5 million people, according to the November 2023 Cadre Harmonise analysis. These figures represent some of the highest rates of food insecurity recorded in the country, affecting refugees, internally displaced people and host communities, with nearly 75 percent of the severely food insecure people located in crisis-affected regions.

Alarming rates of acute malnutrition and stunting in children under 5 are also reported among refugee communities. Wasting rates vary between 10 percent among those living outside of camps in the North and 17.4 percent in the Adamawa and East campsites, above the emergency thresholds of 10 and 15 percent (SMART/SENS, 2022).

But the US$ 371.4 million humanitarian response plan for 2024 is only 5 percent funded as of February 2024. The situation was no better in 2023 when the plan was only 28 percent funded.

While the Government of Cameroon is making every effort to address the humanitarian situation, there is an urgent need for additional support to meet the immediate food and nutrition needs of crisis-affected families in Cameroon.

WFP and UNHCR remain committed to working with the government, donors and partners to continue providing food and nutrition assistance to vulnerable communities including refugees and internally displaced persons, helping them meet their basic needs, and rebuild their lives and livelihoods through longer term solutions to achieve self-reliance.

# # #

About United Nations World Food Programme

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world's largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.

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Operation Iron Swords - Day 172 - 26 March 2024

At any point, Hamas could have ended this burgeoning tragedy to

surrender and release every hostage.

Hamas instigated and owns this humanitarian catastrophe.

Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA)

War Termination

Hamas said that it informed the negotiations mediators that it "sticks to its original position" in its demands for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, withdrawal of the Israeli troops from the Strip and return of displaced Palestinians and a real exchange of prisoners."

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Tuesday issued a statement after Hamas' rejection of the truce proposal, marking Israel's withdrawal from the negotiations in Qatar. "Hamas's position clearly proves that it is not interested in continuing negotiations for a deal, and is an unfortunate testimony to the damage of the [United Nations] Security Council's decision." "Hamas once again rejected any American compromise proposal and repeated its extreme demands: an immediate end to the war, a complete withdrawal of the IDF from the Gaza Strip and the remaining in power so that it could repeat the massacre of October 7 again and again, as it had promised to do," read the statement.

"Israel will not submit to the delusional demands of Hamas, and will continue to act to achieve all the goals of the war: to release all the abductees, to destroy the military and governmental capabilities of Hamas and to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel."

israeli N12 TV reported the negotiation teams analyzed Hamas' answer throughout the night, actually until 5:00 in the morning, to examine what the next Israeli step would be. After the discussion with the mediators and after consulting with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Mossad head David Barnea ordered the teams to return from Doha to Israel. "Hamas' answer is ridiculous and left no room for doubt. Sinwar does not want to move forward with a deal at the moment," explained a senior Israeli official familiar with the details of the negotiations.

The senior Israeli official added that "under the conditions created, when he is in a tunnel surrounded by hostages as a human shield with food and medicine, and when the diplomatic pressure is exerted on Israel even more strongly - he still dreams of unifying the sectors in Ramadan." According to him, "in the meantime he is gaining time".

In Hamas's detailed answer, the terrorist organization reiterates its desire to determine the identity of the prisoners with blood on their hands who will be released, and demand to determine which murderers serving life sentences will be released. Regarding the issue of the northern Gaza Strip, Israel indicated a number of IDPs that it is willing to return under inspection and categories, Hamas returned a very strict answer: the complete cancellation of the drain (the checkpoint between the two parts of the Strip) and the return of all Gaza residents to the northern Strip.

Among the negotiating teams, there is no consensus as to how much Israel has done to create a breakthrough. Even tonight, after Hamas' answer, General (resp.) Nitzan Alon from the professional level, and Minister Gadi Eisenkot from the political level - believe that a real mandate was not given and we did not create a reality that Hamas did not could have refused her.

At the negotiating levels there is also great frustration that there are no significant military levers of pressure. The action in Shifa is spot-on. The massive pressure from Israel is more on the mediators, especially on Qatar, to activate its levers. Or as an Israeli source told N12: "As soon as it seems that a family of Hamas was expelled from Qatar - we will know that they are doing what they have to do to generate interest for them."

Following the deadlock in the negotiations, the spokesman for the Qatari Foreign Ministry, Majed Al-Ansari, said at a press conference that "the talks in Gaza continue between the parties at the level of technical teams, part of the Israeli delegation is still present in Doha and it is not withdrawing. We are hopeful, but we cannot now talk about A specific timetable for negotiations. We continue with our partners in the mediation efforts."

The US did not receive the Israeli statement well, with two senior officials stating that it had angered the White House, which described it as an attempt by Netanyahu to continue the dispute with Washington, which was exacerbated one day prior to the UNSC session. "This statement is inaccurate in almost every respect and unfair to the hostages and their families," one official said. "Hamas' response was prepared before the UN vote even took place. We will not play politics with this most important and difficult issue, and we will remain focused on a deal to free the remaining hostages," the US official continued. An advisor to Netanyahu shortly after responded to the official, saying, "Hamas welcomed the UN Security Council resolution and the hostage talks got stuck  this tells you everything you need to know."

However, the US, Qatar, and Egypt remain optimistic, calling the current situation a "pause" and that talks could resume in a few days, a source said, according to Axios. "The Israelis went back to consult. Everybody still wants to keep talking, so we don't think it's over," the source said.

But another official said that it was a mistake to assume that the Resistance wasn't serious about its demand from the start, describing the current deadlock as much more serious than believed. "A lot of people thought Hamas wasn't serious in its demands and that the mediators can squeeze them into a compromise. It didn't happen. It should have been clear from the start but some people didn't want to see it," the Israeli official said, adding that Netanyahu did not provide the delegation with enough mandate to help the team make progress. Furthermore, the official said that the Resistance did not change its stance despite the Israeli military attacks and pressures from the mediations, especially with regard to the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza.

"We are dramatically stuck. It's not for show. There is a substantial gap. We can engage in a blame game but it won't bring the hostages back. If we want a deal, we need to acknowledge reality," the Israeli official said.

According to Axios sources, Israel agreed to release 700 Palestinian prisoners, including 100 with "life sentences", in return for Hamas releasing 40 captives. However, Israelis ignored the main pillars conditioned by the Resistance for any deal to take place. A Palestinian Resistance source confirmed to Al Mayadeen earlier that the round of negotiations in Doha "did not lead to anything new" due to the Israeli occupation's stance being "very obstinate". The source added that "Israel has not offered anything new, except agreeing to a gradual and conditional return of the displaced."

Hamas responded to the proposal on Monday evening, reiterating its main conditions, which included a comprehensive ceasefire, the lifting of the siege on Gaza, the return of forcibly displaced Palestinians to the north, and the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from the Strip. But the occupation only agreed to a "gradual return" of 2,000 Palestinians per day to northern Gaza, while completely ignoring the rest of the Resistance's demands. In a Monday statement, the Resistance also announced that it had informed the Qatari and Egyptian mediators that it is firm about its terms. "The responsibility for the failure of the negotiations is on Netanyahu and his extremist government," Hamas said.

Israel, on the other hand, saw that Hamas is counting on the international public pressure to force the occupation to end the war on Gaza, claiming that the Resistance doesn't want the talks to proceed regardless of Israeli compromises. "When the director of Mossad read Hamas' written response it was clear we are at a dead-end and that Hamas doesn't want to move forward regardless of the Israeli willingness to compromise. They just want to drag it out so that international pressure on Israel to end the war grows even stronger," a senior Israeli official said.

US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said on Tuesday that the Hamas movement has no place in the future political system in Palestine. Hamas is a brutal terrorist organization that committed terrorist attacks long before October 7, and then of course carried out the heinous attacks on October 7, so they have no right to participate politically, Miller said. The US State Department spokesman added that instead of launching a military campaign, the long-term goal of providing security for Israel and its citizens can be achieved by reaching a political solution with the Palestinian people.

Before that, Israel accused Hamas of presenting fake demands in the indirect negotiations regarding a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, and the Israeli side believes that the movement is not interested in the deal. Miller also denied the validity of what was stated in a statement by the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the collapse of ceasefire talks and the exchange of prisoners between Israel and Hamas due to the Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire.

Operational Update

Operational Update - Gaza

The Hamas government information office confirmed on Tuesday that 18 people were killed after trying, on Monday, to collect aid dropped by planes at sea and on land in the northern Gaza Strip, which is witnessing a devastating war. The source said that 12 of them drowned off the northern Gaza Strip governorate, where dozens of hungry citizens entered the sea to obtain aid dropped by planes into the sea. Six other citizens were killed as a result of stampedes in more than one place when they were trying to obtain aid that was dropped by planes incorrectly, also in light of the ongoing famine, according to what was reported by Agence France-Presse.

Earlier Tuesday, the Hamas Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip confirmed that seven Gazans were killed while trying to bring aid that was dropped by planes through parachutes and fell into the sea. The ministry said that one of them died at dawn on Tuesday as a result of his injury due to drowning in the sea in the northern Gaza Strip, while the other six drowned on Monday while trying to obtain aid dropped by planes in the sea. Six others were injured during the same incident.

The Al-Hurra website was unable to confirm the accuracy of what Hamas reported from independent sources.

Aid is being dropped by air almost daily to compensate for the lack of aid entering the Gaza Strip by land, where the population is on the brink of starvation due to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, according to Agence France-Presse. A sea corridor was also launched from Cyprus, through which a ship carried aid from an American charitable organization that was distributed in Gaza a week ago.

But relief agencies say that the landing and sea corridor do not replace the need to bring aid through the land crossings into the besieged sector.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) disclosed the statements made by terrorists on the use of hospitals, schools and other similar places as hiding spots to carry out their activities. "About 600 to 1,000 Hamas operatives hiding in the hospital," one of the terrorists was quoted as saying about the Al Shifa hospital. The investigation was led by the IDF's Unit 504, who also discovered details of the weapons being stored in the hospital area. "The operatives are in all the buildings, scattered everywhere," a Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorist told the investigators about the terror groups' presence in the area.

During another interrogation, of an operative from Hamas, he spoke about the groups' use of civilian infrastructure, saying "Terrorists have no safe place to be except in hospitals, so they are in schools or similar places." In addition, the IDF statement pointed out Hamas's organized infrastructure in the hospital, which has been used by the organization's senior officials for planning and directing terror attacks.

Operational Update - Judea-Samaria

The Nablus Brigade of the Al-Quds Brigades announced this morning that occupation vehicles and soldiers were targeted in Balata Camp with bullets and explosive devices. Al-Alam TV correspondent in Jenin reported that the occupation forces have stormed several areas in the West Bank since last night. Al-Alam's correspondent added that the occupation forces withdrew this morning from Balata camp , east of Nablus, after the Nablus Brigade confronted them with bullets and explosive devices. She noted that there was a violent incursion into the city of Jenin by the occupation, and these incursions were concentrated in the eastern neighborhood of the city of Jenin.

The Al-Alam correspondent confirmed that there was a low flight of warplanes and occupation marches over the skies of Jenin Governorate, adding that these planes are monitoring the movements of the resistance fighters in the Jenin camp and also in the neighboring villages and towns. We have also recently witnessed recording of the assassinations of a large number of these resistance fighters via Israeli drones.

It is noteworthy that, at dawn on Tuesday, a Palestinian was injured by Israeli occupation forces bullets during the storming of Balata refugee camp, east of Nablus, in the West Bank. The Palestinian Red Crescent spokesman said that ambulance crews transported a young man (27 years old) injured by live bullets in the foot to the hospital during the storming of Balata camp.

Operational Update - Lebanon

The border between Lebanon and Israel is witnessing ongoing tension, with the intensity of clashes escalating , while the UNIFIL leadership operating in Lebanon renewed calls for all actors to lay down their weapons and recommit to UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and work towards a political and diplomatic solution.

The Lebanese Hezbollah announced on Tuesday that it had targeted the Israeli Yarden barracks in the occupied Syrian Golan with more than 50 missiles, and bombed two other sites, confirming direct hits. Hezbollah explained in a statement: In support of our steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and in support of their valiant and honorable resistance, and in response to the Zionist enemys attack that struck the Bekaa, the Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance were targeted at 04:20 in the afternoon of Tuesday, 26 03-2024 Yardun Barracks in the occupied Syrian Golan - the main command headquarters in wartime - with more than 50 Katyusha rockets.

Hezbollah added: In support of our steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and in support of their valiant and honorable resistance, the Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance targeted at (05:05) in the afternoon on Tuesday 03/26/2024 a military force of Israeli enemy soldiers. In the vicinity of the Zibdin barracks in the occupied Lebanese Shebaa Farms with appropriate weapons, they hit it directly.

The party confirmed in another statement: The Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance targeted, at 05:30 in the afternoon, on Tuesday 03/26/2024, a gathering of Israeli enemy soldiers in the vicinity of the Ruwaisat Al-Alam site in the occupied Lebanese Kfar Shuba hills with missile weapons and wounded it. directly".

An RT correspondent reported on Tuesday that Israeli aircraft carried out raids targeting the plain of the town of Budai, west of the city of Baalbek in eastern Lebanon , resulting in casualties. The Israeli Broadcasting Authority also reported that the army launched raids on targets in Baalbek, Lebanon, in response to the targeting of an air surveillance unit in Meron.

The border between Lebanon and Israel is still witnessing ongoing tension , with the intensity of clashes escalating. Meanwhile, the UNIFIL leadership operating in Lebanon renewed calls for all actors to lay down their weapons, recommit to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and work towards a political and diplomatic solution.

Israeli aircraft carried out raids targeting the plain of the town of Budai, west of the city of Baalbek in eastern Lebanon, resulting in casualties. According to the RT correspondent, Israeli warplanes launched a missile raid targeting the plain of the town of Budai, west of the city of Baalbek, eastern Lebanon. On Tuesday afternoon, the Israeli army also targeted a small truck between the plain of the town of Al-Ain and Wadi Fa'ra in the Wadi Al-Nira area of Baalbek.

The Israeli Broadcasting Authority reported that the army launched raids on targets in Baalbek, Lebanon, in response to targeting an air control unit in Meron. Lebanese media reported that "Israeli aircraft carried out an air strike with two missiles targeting the outskirts of Maroun al-Ras Park, and this was followed by artillery and phosphorus bombardment on the outskirts of the towns of Maroun al-Ras, Aitaroun, and the town of Aita al-Shaab."

The border town of Rmeish, in southern Lebanon, witnessed tension between the people of the town, which has a Christian majority, and members of Hezbollah, who attempted to launch missiles towards Israel from near inhabited homes, which raised objections and residents fears of the consequences. In detail, a citizen from the town of Rmeish, in the Bint Jbeil District, intercepted two vehicles containing Hezbollah members who attempted to set up a missile platform between the houses of the village near one of the towns schools, but the members responded to the citizen with gunfire, according to what the mayor of Rmeish confirmed in his interview with Al-Hurra website.

Subsequently, a number of the towns residents gathered and rang church bells to express their objection to exposing their town to the danger of Israeli bombing. Video clips circulated from near the town's church documenting the gathering and the ringing of the bells, and were widely circulated on social networking sites among Lebanese and politicians who expressed their solidarity with the town and the move of its people.

The mayor of Rmeish says that the town and its people are against Israel more than anyone, and we do not object to the principle of confronting it. Even the fact that the people remain in the village and not move from it despite the imminent dangers, is in itself an act of confrontation and a symbol of the steadfastness of the South. But he explains that the only demand of the towns people is the safety of our people and not exposing them to danger, especially since the town is still densely populated with the presence of about 7,000 people who have not been displaced from it, practicing their normal lives and moving around in the town and conducting their agricultural work. Our only concern is their security and safety, pointing out that there are no There is no political background to the problem.

Operational Update - Syria / Iraq

Air attacks have been reported against Iranian-backed forces in Deir Ezzor province. The attacks hit the Al-Salihiyya area in the city of Al-Bukamal, residential areas in Al-Mayadin and the Al-Qusur area in the city of Deir ez-Zor. Iranian sources report that 10 different targets were attacked simultaneously and that the attack was carried out by US forces. The series of strikes appears to be a response to the recent rocket attack on the military airfield in Harrab al-Jair, which is used by US forces based at bases in the Syrian province of Hasakah. The attack was the first since a stated agreement between the commander of the IRGC Quds Force and pro-Iranian groups to stop attacks on American military targets in Syria and Iraq, which one unnamed group did not agree with.

US forces launched more airstrikes in eastern Syria near the Iraq border, targeting residential areas and military sites in Deir ez-Zur province, including al-Mayadin and Al-Bukamal, with 10 strikes reported simultaneously on Tuesday morning. At least 20 people, including women and children, were injured in the attack, but no further details were provided. The United States justifies these airstrikes as part of its counterterrorism efforts.

Syria has consistently criticized these actions, urging the United Nations to intervene and halt US military activities in the country. Since the onset of foreign-sponsored militancy in 2011, Syria has accused Israel, along with its Western and regional allies, of supporting terrorist groups.

The US military has stationed troops in northeastern Syria under the guise of preventing oilfields from falling into Daesh (ISIS or ISIL) hands. Damascus alleges this deployment aims to exploit Syria's mineral wealth. These attacks, coupled with Israeli attacks, worsen the humanitarian crisis in Syria. Iran condemned the US airstrikes as illegal, emphasizing its advisory role in Syria, which was approved by Damascus, unlike the unconsented US presence.

Operational Update - Yemen

"You will not pass from here". This is the message of the Yemeni armed forces to American and British ships and warships or ships heading towards the Israeli occupation entity. The spokesman for the Yemeni Armed Forces, Brigadier General Yahya Saree, confirmed that six military operations were carried out within seventy-two hours with a large number of ballistic missiles and drones.

He added that the operations targeted four American and British ships that were in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea and were heading to the ports of occupied Palestine , in addition to targeting two American war destroyers in the Red Sea. Saree explained that the missile force carried out a military operation in which it targeted a number of targets belonging to the occupying entity in Eilat, southern occupied Palestine, indicating that the military operations successfully achieved their goals.

US Central Command had announced that its forces clashed with six right-wing drones south of the Red Sea. It also indicated that the Yemeni forces fired four anti-ship ballistic missiles in the Red Sea near a Panama-flagged oil tanker owned by China, and a fifth ballistic missile towards the ship, causing damage to it and causing a fire that was extinguished without causing any casualties. Ambre Maritime Security Company also reported that a ship flying the Liberian flag linked to the Israeli occupation entity was attacked after it stopped in Saudi Arabia while on its way to India.

During the past few days, American-British aircraft launched air strikes on several areas of the Yemeni capital, Sana'a, and other areas in the Hodeidah Governorate, northwest of the country. Despite the bombing, the Yemeni forces continue to support the Palestinian resistance in the Gaza Strip, stressing that they will not stop targeting American and British interests and the occupying entity until the final aggression against the Gaza Strip is expected.

The Yemeni Armed Forces announced the implementation of six military operations during the past 72 hours, using a number of ballistic missiles and drones, targeting four ships and two military destroyers in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, and a number of Israeli targets in the Umm al-Rashrash area in southern occupied Palestine. The Armed Forces explained in a statement that the naval forces and the missile force carried out four joint operations on four ships, including the American ship MAERSK SARATOGA in the Gulf of Aden, the American ship APL DETROIT in the Red Sea, the British ship HUANG PU in the Red Sea, and the ship PRETTY LADY), which was heading to the ports of occupied Palestine.

The statement indicated that the Air Force carried out a qualitative military operation targeting two American warship destroyers in the Red Sea, while the missile force carried out a military operation targeting a number of Israeli targets in the Umm al-Rashrash area in southern occupied Palestine. The text of the statement follows:

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

The Almighty said: {These are those who have believed in me. If you support you, God will help you and make your feet firm.} God Almighty has spoken the truth. In victory over

the oppression of the Palestinian people and inaugurating the tenth year of steadfastness in the face of the American-British aggression against our country,

the Yemeni armed forces carried out six military operations during Over the past 72 hours, a large number of ballistic missiles and drones were used, as follows:

The naval forces and the missile force carried out four joint operations on four ships, including the American ship MAERSK SARATOGA in the Gulf of Aden, the American ship APL DETROIT in the Red Sea, and the ship ( The British HUANG PU in the Red Sea and the ship PRETTY LADY, which was heading to the ports of occupied Palestine.

The Air Force, with the help of God Almighty, carried out a qualitative military operation targeting two American war destroyers in the Red Sea.

The missile force, with the help of God Almighty, carried out a military operation in which it targeted a number of Israeli targets in the Umm al-Rashrash area, south of occupied Palestine. The military operations achieved their goals successfully, with the help of God Almighty.

The Yemeni Armed Forces, dedicating these military operations to all the Mujahideen in the Palestinian resistance factions in the Gaza Strip, confirm their continuation of carrying out more operations against all hostile targets and confirming the continuation of the decision to prevent Israeli navigation or those heading to the ports of occupied Palestine in the Red and Arabian Seas and in the Indian Ocean until... Stop the aggression and lift the siege on the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.

God is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs, the best Lord and the best supporter.

Long live Yemen, free, mighty and independent.

Victory belongs to Yemen and to all the free people of the nation.

Sanaa, Ramadan 16, 1445 AH,

corresponding to March 26, 2024 AD



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 UN Charter in article 25 provides that UN members agree to accept and carry out the decisions of the Security Council in accordance with the present Charter.31 While this provision suggests that Security Council actions under any provision might bind all UN members, because some decisions of the Security Council are of a recommendatory nature while others of an obligatory nature, the legal force of any given decision is subject to interpretation.

One reading of chapters VI and VII suggests that resolutions under chapter VII may be binding while those under chapter VI may not be. In the Advisory Opinion on Namibia, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1970 found "The language of a resolution of the Security Council should be carefully analysed before a conclusion can be made as to its binding effect. In view of the nature of the powers under Article 25, the question whether they have been in fact exercised is to be determined in each case, having regard to the terms of the resolution to be interpreted, the discussions leading to it, the Charter provisions invoked and, in general, all circumstances that might assist in determining the legal consequences of the resolution of the Security Council." There is general agreement that sanctions resolutions in which article 41 is specifically referenced are binding on member states.

The Council has general powers under articles 24 and 25 to adopt binding decisions and such decisions do not need to be always taken under Chapter VII. n Even when the Council does use its Chapter VII powers, it is not essential to have an explicit reference to Chapter VII or a particular article thereof. Although the Charter does not expressly prescribe a particular form for adopting binding decisions, Council practice suggests that resolutions are the primary vehicle for binding decisions. . There have been a few resolutions that appear intended to be under Chapter VII that do not mention that chapter expressly.

Not all resolutions invoking chapter VII are necessarily binding, because recommendations are one option within chapter VII and the Security Council sometimes adopts non-binding language in resolutions explicitly invoking chapter VII. Where the Security Council begins a paragraph indicating it urges or invites, rather than decides, the provision is likely intended to be exhortatory and not binding. When the Security Council begins a paragraph saying it calls upon or endorses, the paragraph is ambiguous as to whether it is intended to be binding.

Attempts have been made in the past 15-20 years to promote, as a form of best practice, a policy that, when a Council resolution is intended to contain binding provisions, it should include:

a determination of the existence of a threat to international peace, a breach of the peace or an act of aggression in accordance with article 39;

the chapeau acting under Chapter VII; and

the verb decides in the resolutions relevant operative paragraphs.

A Chapter VII resolution may not be entirely binding. On the other hand, a binding resolution does not seem to need to invoke Chapter VII explicitly. Over time, the heated atmosphere surrounding the negotiation of various resolutions has become clouded by mythology about Chapter VII and that has sometimes provided disagreement, since article 25 of the Charter provides that all decisions by the Security Council shall be accepted and carried out by the Member States of the Organization. The use of the word decides has since prompted a legal and political discussion as to whether it should be interpreted as a binding decision in the meaning of article 25.

Council language often does display a degree of ambiguity and that this stems from the complex bargaining that frequently precedes the adoption of a resolution. This process is governed by the need for political compromise and sometimes the urgency of a particular situation. These factors often trump a more careful consideration of wording and clarity.

Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf confirmed during a press conference on Tuesday that the ceasefire decision in Gaza is permanent, unconditional and non-interim, and that failure to submit to Security Council resolutions is subject to sanctions. Ahmed Attaf added, "If international law has meaning, then Security Council resolutions are binding, regardless of the circumstances and illusions of the parties concerned."

The Algerian minister stated that if the decision had not been binding, the Israeli response would not have been like this, indicating that he had entered into hysteria. He stated that the decision is historic , especially from the ten countries that belong to the four continents who ensured its preparation. He explained in his statements that starting Wednesday, closed consultations will begin in the Security Council to discuss the mechanisms necessary to implement the Security Councils decision to cease fire in Gaza. He added during the press conference that the issue of Palestine's membership in the United Nations is urgently presenting itself in order to achieve the establishment of the Palestinian state.

Ahmed Ataf stressed the necessity of confronting projects and campaigns to displace residents outside the Gaza Strip, calling for encouraging the trend towards trying Israel before the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. Attaf continued by saying: "We fought to strip the occupier of immunity from accountability and restrict him to international legitimacy. We must not accept the fragmentation of the aggression and respect the Palestinian will in determining the future of the issue." He added: We have advocated, and we are still advocating, to work to activate an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and provide legal protection for the Palestinian people in accordance with what is stipulated in international conventions, continuing by saying, Algeria has always confirmed and confirms that the Palestinian issue is a priority, as President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has always stressed. To focus diplomatic efforts and urge the revival of a political solution after it has been stalled and absent for more than 25 years.

In his speech, he stressed the necessity of upholding international legitimacy in letter and spirit to revive the peace process in the Middle East and reach a permanent and final solution, noting that they always focus on the establishment of the Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with its capital, Al-Quds Al-Sharif. In the context, he stated that the transitional governance project will not succeed without including it within the framework of establishing an independent Palestinian state, stressing that advancing the Palestinian reconciliation project is an urgent necessity to revive the Palestinian project.

The Algerian Foreign Minister stated that, based on these gains, Algeria will continue its efforts in the Security Council, noting that the next steps will focus on following up on the implementation of the resolution, stopping the aggression, and working to secure the arrival of aid to Gaza without restrictions.

Axis of Resistance

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei made the remarks in a meeting with the Head of the Political Bureau of Hamas Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on Tuesday evening. The Leader stressed that the Palestinians' historical patience honored Islam and made the issue of Palestine the first issue of the world. The Islamic Republic of Iran would not hesitate to support the Palestinian issue and the oppressed people of Gaza.

Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, for his part, said that the patience and resistance of the people of Gaza and the Resistance forces during the last six months has caused the Zionist enemy to not achieve any of its strategic goals in the Gaza war. He also hailed the efforts of the Iranian government and nation in supporting Palestine and the people of Gaza. The war in Gaza is a world war and the American ruling body is the main accomplice of the Zionists, Haniyeh added.

Haniyeh said the Zionist regime is facing unprecedented isolation in the world, a day after the UN Security Council passed a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Speaking at a joint press conference with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Tehran on Tuesday, Haniyeh said the resolution indicates that the Israeli occupation is experiencing unprecedented political isolation.

The Hamas chief added that the resolution, passed on Monday, also showed that the United States is no longer able to impose its will on the international community. The US, the Israeli regimes main political and military supporter, did not use its veto power and abstained from voting, allowing the resolution to be adopted. Although it was delayed and has some shortcomings, the Security Council resolution is a sign of the unique resistance of the Palestinian people, Haniyeh said.

Despite incurring heavy costs in the war on Gaza, the Zionist regime has failed to achieve its military goals and is instead losing political and international support, he noted. He also expressed hope that Muslims worldwide would have a stronger presence at this years Quds Day rallies, held each year on the last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani, welcomed the UN Security Council's resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza as a positive but insufficient step. Kanaani said in a short statement on Monday midnight that after six months of failure to adopt a deterring resolution on Israels war crimes and genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, the UN Security Council vote was a positive but insufficient step.

"A more important step than adopting this resolution is [an] effective action to implement it, Kannani said. He also called for the complete and long-term cessation of Zionist regimes aggression against Gaza and the southwestern coast, the cessation of the Gaza siege, and the reopening of humanitarian aid crossings. Kanaani also advocated for international assistance and resources to begin immediate reconstruction of Gaza, particularly homes, critical infrastructure, and hospitals.

Kanaani described the "child-killing Zionist regime's" response to the resolution as a clear indication of their anger over their "irreparable defeat both on the field and in international politics." He expressed his expectation that the UN Security Council would hold the regime accountable for its crimes against the Palestinian people over the last six months, as well as any potential continuation of these atrocities despite the resolution.

The UN Security Council approved a resolution for an immediate ceasefire during Ramadan and the release of Israeli captives, with the US abstaining from vetoing it. The resolution was globally welcomed but opposed by Israel. This decision followed Israel's raid on Al Shifa hospital that resulted in the deaths of over a dozen patients. As fighting continued around the al-Shifa Hospital in northern Gaza on Tuesday, the al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis remained non-operational due to an Israeli siege.

Iran's representative to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Mojtaba Reza Khwah, said that since the formation of the Israeli colonial entity, the Islamic Republic of Iran has been aware of its genocidal nature and has therefore always stood against the illegal occupation of Palestine. Redha Khwah added: The crimes of the Israeli entity in Al-Shifa, Al-Mamadani, and Nasser hospitals and its attacks on Palestinian women are extremely arrogant, and that many crimes have occurred that have not been announced due to the absence of the media.

He continued that the Islamic Republic of Iran , since the victory of the Islamic Revolution, and at the behest of Imam Khomeini (may God be pleased with him), has established the International Day of Jerusalem, in which millions of Iranians participate, on the last Friday of the blessed month of Ramadan. He criticized Western double standards regarding human rights and asked: Do the millions of Palestinian mothers, children, journalists, and doctors who have been displaced, displaced, and killed not deserve to form several international fact-finding committees? Shouldn't those with the Western veto, in light of the testing of their latest weapons on our Palestinian brothers, bear responsibility?

Reza Khwah, a deputy in the Islamic Shura Council, added: We in the Islamic Republic of Iran have always stressed that peace is impossible without achieving justice.

Hamas is governed by two entities: its political office in Qatar and its executive arm in Gaza. In Doha, the political bureau of Hamas is headed by Ismail Haniyeh, while in Gaza, Yahya al-Sanwar is the head of the movements political bureau and a prominent leader in its military arm, the Al-Qassam Brigades.

Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Palestinian resistance movement Hamas, is in Tehran for talks with Iranian authorities, arriving shortly after the UN Security Council's adoption of a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Haniyeh met with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the latest developments in Gaza.

"Examining the latest situation of the war in Gaza and the ongoing aggression of the Zionist regime against the people of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank are among the most important agendas of the trip and the talks between the officials of the two sides," official news agency IRNA reported. Since the beginning of Israel's military aggression and genocide against the Palestinians, Iran has used its diplomatic power to try to stop the war and provide immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza. The visit comes at a crucial time, just one day after the ceasefire resolution was adopted, making it Haniyeh's second visit to Iran since the outbreak of the Israeli war on Gaza in October.

Haniyeh, who is based in the Qatari capital of Doha, previously met with Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in November.

The media website (KHAMENEI.IR) published a report by the writer Muhammad Mehdi Abbasi that presented the consequences of Americas wrong position and choice in its war on Gaza, which revealed the true essence of American human rights in the world, made it a pariah, and scattered its plans and calculations in the region.

Perhaps there are few living consciences today in America and the West in general that can remain silent and floundering in the face of one of the greatest crimes of the past hundred years. More than 32 thousand victims of the crime that claimed their lives in Gaza, and according to the words of one United Nations official, It is the highest rate of genocide in the world since the genocide in Rwanda. Now one person is protesting his country's participation in this genocide by burning himself in front of the Zionist embassy, another is resigning from an important position in the US State Department, and another is participating in anti-war demonstrations in the streets of Washington. New York and San Francisco!.

On the other hand, the American government finds itself, contrary to the will of the majority of Americans, in a crisis and a huge quagmire. For participating in the brutal killing of the people of Gaza at the hands of the Zionist entity. In his speech on the occasion of Nowruz a few days ago, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Imam Khamenei, used an accurate expression of the US governments position on the Gaza crisis, saying that it was choosing the worst possible position, and enumerated three dangerous consequences of this wrong choice:

The true essence of American human rights has been demonstrated to the world. In the first days of the war, Joe Biden traveled to Tel Aviv to announce his support for the Zionist entity. It was also the first bill approved by the US Congress after a period of recess, approving the US aid package for Israel. These days, the American government is looking forward to approving another package worth $14 billion to aid the Zionist entity. In addition, the Washington Post announced in a controversial report that since the start of the war on Gaza on October 7, America has concluded more than 100 separate military and arms deals with Israel! Some US senators, such as Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren explicitly referred to the US government's role in the current crisis in Gaza.

Therefore, no one in the world today can hide Americas contribution to the brutal crimes committed by the Zionist entity. A partnership that showed the world the true essence of American human rights, and raised the moral face of this country.

In his speech on the occasion of Nowruz, Imam Khamenei once again emphasized the influence of the Palestinian resistance and the patience of the people of Gaza in exposing and exposing the claims of civilization and human rights in the West, saying: The events in Gaza demonstrated the extent of the injustice and darkness that prevail in the world, and the Western world has proven this, this civilized world! Whoever claims human rights and such matters, what darkness dominates the lives, thoughts and actions of these people?

America has become more of a pariah in the region and the world. In recent months, various cities around the world have witnessed marches and mass gatherings to protest the crimes of the Zionist entity in Gaza, and Americas participation in them. The protests even reached the heart of America, that is, Washington, DC, and inside the US Congress building. Interestingly, this general hatred of the US government even extended to the US elections. In the Democratic Party primaries in some important states, such as Michigan, more than 100,000 people used the Uncommitted option, which is considered a type of protest vote, in response to the Biden administrations policies towards Gaza.

Opposition to America among the governments of the region has increased over recent months, as has popular anger toward this country among Islamic peoples. CNN reported that the Biden administration has received dire warnings from American diplomats throughout the Arab world that Americas support for the heinous Zionist military campaign in Gaza will cost America the loss of public opinion among the Arab people for an entire generation. A new poll conducted by the Washington Institute also confirms this claim. According to this poll conducted for residents of 6 Arab countries in the region, only 7% of the residents of these countries believe that America played a positive role in the Gaza war! Also, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the famous Al-Ahram newspaper in Egypt declared in a memorandum some time ago that America is the number one enemy of the Arab world today! The negative vote of the countries of the region on the recent decisions of America and its allies in the United Nations is further evidence of this issue.

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution analyzes the relationship between America's severe decline in the region and its performance regarding Gaza as follows: America took the worst possible position in the Gaza issue. She did something that made her an outcast in the whole world. Those who demonstrate in defense of Palestine in the streets of London, Paris, and other European countries, and in America itself, are in fact expressing their disgust with America. Yes, America has become a pariah in the world. She was an outcast in the area, and she became an outcast tenfold.

The Gaza war has proven that there is no longer a place for America and its policies in West Asia. Perhaps the first and largest plan of the Americans, which was destroyed by the resistance; It was a project to normalize relations between Arab and Islamic countries with the Zionist entity. The latest estimates indicate that public opinion in the Arab world these days strongly opposes recognition of the Zionist entity. For example: According to a new opinion poll, 89% of the Arab world opposes recognizing the state of Israel. This number is not only an almost unanimous position against normalization in the Arab world, but it is also a 5 percent increase in opposition to the Zionist entity compared to the 2022 poll, in which 84 percent opposed recognition of Israel.

Political thinkers and analysts in the West also acknowledged the failure of this plan during the past few months. For example: I think the biggest casualty of these recent events is the issue of normalization of Saudi-Israeli relations, Frederick Kemp, CEO of the Atlantic Council, said in an interview a few weeks ago. There was a horizon for reaching an agreement; People gave him 50/50 luck, but now the luck is zero. Or Zainab Ribois, a prominent researcher at the Hudson Institute in America, who believes that the first achievement of the Hamas movement and the axis of resistance in the recent war is stopping the normalization of relations between the Arabs and the Zionist entity. America's main acting power in the region, the Zionist entity, was also subjected to strong blows during these months, and today, in addition to the military losses and heavy economic costs of the Gaza war, it is also facing widespread internal tensions and disputes.

Regarding the cost that the resistance front brought to America in the region, Imam Khamenei says the following: The resistance has revealed its true existence, capabilities and status and has proven to the world the meaning of resistance. These people have scattered all of Americas accounts.

in conclusion; Today, America is paying a heavy price for its wrong choice in dealing with the Gaza crisis. Every minute that this war continues, the Biden administration will become more and more mired in domestic anger, and Americas decline internationally will also accelerate.

Allied for Democracy

'Diplomatic pressure is meaningless to Hamas,' senior Israeli official told i24news. In contrast, 'to Israel, it can be perilous, as Mr. Biden well knows. His fence-sitting opens up Israel to more pressure to end the war while Hamas still reigns in part of Gaza'. "The feeling is that the passing of the resolution at the [United Nations Security Council] UNSC has weakened Israel's position and leads to more calls for a cessation of the fighting, thereby preventing Israel from achieving the goals of the war." The Israeli official also said that Israel has chosen "to remain silent vis-a-vis its relations with the United States since announcing it will not send the delegation to Washington." According to the source, Israel seeks not to "inflame the situation beyond the damage caused last night."

With the resolution of the dispute crisis with the Biden administration, the resignation of Minister Gideon Sa'ar from the emergency government came, increasing the possibilities of the fall of Netanyahu's government. Sa'ar's resignation is due to his not being included in the war council, according to what the minister himself announced, adding that he will not be able to bear responsibility as long as he does not have any influence. He criticized what he called the slowdown in the conduct of military operations in the Gaza Strip , which prolonged the war in the Strip, and also prolonged the conflict on the northern front with Hezbollah, which means the continuation of the crisis of tens of thousands of displaced settlers from the north.

The resignation crisis opened the doors to a more complex coalition crisis. Although Netanyahu does not oppose Saar joining the war council, his joining the council means the joining of both the head of the Jewish Power Party, Itamar Ben Gvir, and the head of the Religious Zionism Alliance, Bezalel Smotrich, which will lead to To the immediate withdrawal of Ministers Gadi Eisenkot and Benny Gantz from the emergency government .

The resignation step was viewed differently between the right and the left inside Israel. While Smotrich considered that Saars resignation weakens the soldiers and the continuation of the war in Gaza; Opposition leader Yair Lapid saw the resignation as a first step towards dissolving Netanyahu's government , considering that the resignation speech criticized the conduct of the war and the formation of the war council. Hinting at going to early elections.

Minister in the War Council, Benny Gantz, escalated his rhetoric against Netanyahu, and vowed to resign if the final outline of the conscription law was approved, which in its current form grants religious school students an exemption from compulsory service. Stressing that he will not be able to support a solution that does not enhance equality in the burden, as he put it, internal crises seem to paralyze Netanyahus movement at the political level, increase the burden of war, and threaten to prolong the conflict.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, during an official visit to Washington, where the two discussed developments in the Gaza Strip and the war against Hamas. The negotiations on the hostage issue and Hamas positions, require us to join hands in our military and diplomatic efforts, and to increase the pressure [on Hamas]," Gallant was quoted as saying, according to an Israeli readout of the meeting. The U.S. Defense Secretary was quoted as saying the civilian casualties have been far too high and entry of aid supplies far too low." Austin called for the increase of aid delivery by land, and highlighted the safety of those sheltering in Gaza's southernmost city of Rafah as a top U.S. priority, a point of tensions with Israel as a military operation has been planned.

Robert Wood, deputy U.S. ambassador to the UN, reiterated the American position, saying "We continue to advise the Israeli government against a major ground operation into Rafah." "We share Israel's goal of defeating Hamas, which is responsible for the worst massacre of the Jewish people since the Holocaust and we share the goal of ensuring Israel's long term security. As we have said though, a major military ground operation in Rafah is not the way to do it. It risks killing more civilians. It risks wreaking greater havoc with the provision of humanitarian assistance. And so our advice to Israel is there is a better way. That is a message that President Biden, Secretary Blinken, Secretary Austin and Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield all have communicated to senior Israeli officials in recent weeks, and we will continue to emphasize," Wood concluded.

The United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken who had just concluded his sixth wartime visit to Israel, reiterated to Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant Washington's opposition to a major ground operation in Rafah," Hamas' last stronghold that has also become a shelter to the Palestinians displaced since the start of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) ground operation in the Strip. Blinken told Gallant that a operation in Rafah, would further jeopardize the welfare of the more than 1.4 million Palestinian civilians sheltering there.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suddenly canceled his country's high-level delegation's trip to Washington, revealing the widening differences between the Israeli Prime Minister and the administration of US President Joe Biden, according to a report by the Washington Post. Senior Biden administration officials believe they made clear to their Israeli counterparts in ongoing talks over the weekend the possibility of the United States abstaining from voting on a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, rather than using its veto power.

But the White House was surprised by what happened when Netanyahu suddenly canceled a high-level delegation's trip to Washington, which Biden had specifically requested in a phone call last week to discuss US concerns about the large-scale Israeli military operation in the city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. The remarkable turn of events turned the growing disagreement between Biden and Netanyahu into a general rift, according to the Washington Post.

The cancellation of the meeting constitutes a new major obstacle to the efforts of the United States, alarmed by the worsening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, to force Netanyahu to consider alternatives to a ground invasion of Rafah, a relatively safe last refuge for Palestinian civilians, according to Reuters. The threat of such an attack has increased tensions between the United States and Israel, and raised questions about whether the United States might restrict military aid if Netanyahu defies Biden and goes ahead with the attack.

For Biden, who has a deep connection to Israel and has been extremely reluctant to break with Netanyahu, this breach was the culmination of months of frustration. Since the war began with a Hamas attack on October 7, Biden and his senior aides have supported Israel at almost every turn. The support continued even as Netanyahu openly challenged the United States on almost all major issues, including the US administration's desire for the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza, increasing the amount of humanitarian aid reaching the Strip, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

In the face of growing international isolation over the tens of thousands of Palestinians killed in Israeli air and ground strikes in Gaza and the hundreds of thousands more approaching starvation, the administration has repeatedly responded by supporting Israels right to defend itself, and has continued to send weapons to Israel. Washington often avoided using the word "ceasefire" earlier in the nearly six-month-long war in the Gaza Strip, and used its veto power at the United Nations to protect Israel during its response to Hamas.

But with famine looming in Gaza, and amid mounting global pressure for a truce in the war that Palestinian health authorities say has killed about 32,000 Palestinians, the United States abstained from voting on a resolution calling for a ceasefire during the month of Ramadan, which ends in two weeks.

Frank Lowenstein, a former State Department official who helped lead Israeli-Palestinian negotiations in 2014, pointed to key factors that may have led to widening rifts between Biden and Netanyahu. He spoke to the Washington Post about the deep differences between Washington and Israel over the large ground operation in Rafah, where more than a million Gazans live. They have sought refuge from Israeli attacks in the far north, the catastrophic humanitarian situation, and Israel's announcements of new settlements during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to the country on Friday.

Biden did everything he could for months to avoid a major public battle, Lowenstein said, indicating a very dangerous shift in the White Houses position toward how to manage the Israelis throughout the remainder of this war. He added: "The Israelis must either pay attention now or we will most likely continue down this path."

For his part, John Alterman, director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, stressed that there is no reason for this to be a "deadly blow" to relations. He told Reuters: So I dont think the door is closed to anything.

Biden, who is seeking re-election to a second term in November, is facing pressure not only from Washington's allies but also from a growing number of his Democratic colleagues to rein in Israel's military response to the October 7 Hamas attack in southern Israel, according to Reuters. Netanyahu faces internal challenges of his own, especially demands from members of his far-right coalition to take a tough stance against the Palestinians. He must also convince the hostages' families that he is doing everything to secure their release while facing repeated protests demanding his resignation.

Netanyahu, aware that opinion polls predict his crushing defeat in any election that may be held now, knows that there is widespread support for continuing the war in Gaza among Israelis who are still deeply traumatized by the October 7 attack, so he appears willing to risk testing his tolerance. Washington. All members of Netanyahu's emergency unity government support continuing the war until Hamas is eliminated and the hostages returned, and there has been little sign of willingness to heed US calls for moderation, despite the growing risk of international isolation.

Mara Rodman, who served as Middle East envoy during the Obama administration, explained that although the underlying relationship could withstand the recent spat, the personal dynamics between Biden and Netanyahu are likely to be particularly tense. Geopolitical relations, like personal relations, go through difficult periods, she said.

Netanyahu also had a tense relationship with President Barack Obama, and the US decision to abstain from a UN Security Council vote condemning Israeli settlements in late 2016 heightened tensions between them. At that time, Netanyahu traveled to Washington to deliver a joint speech before Congress in which he criticized the nuclear agreement proposed by Obama with Iran, bypassing traditional protocol and angering White House officials.

For his part, Aaron David Miller, a former American negotiator in the Middle East who worked with administrations from both the Republican and Democratic parties, told Reuters that the recent dispute shows that trust between the Biden administration and Netanyahu may be collapsing. He added: "If the crisis is not managed carefully, it will continue to worsen."

US Senator Bernie Sanders said on Tuesday that the Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip throughout the month of Ramadan "disturbed" Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. On his account on the X platform (formerly Twitter), Sanders indicated that Netanyahu canceled the visit of an Israeli delegation to America after it abstained from voting against the resolution. He explained that what bothered Netanyahu the most was "the return of $3.3 billion in taxpayer money to finance his immoral war (on Gaza). No more money for Netanyahu to starve Palestinian children to death."

In another statement, Senator Sanders criticized the US State Department, which said that [Israel] gave written assurances that it would use the weapons it purchased from the United States in accordance with international law. Sanders described what the US State Department said about the fact that [Israel] does not violate international law in its war on Gaza and does not interfere in US humanitarian aid to the Palestinians as nonsense.

The US Senator said: "The State Department's position is a mockery of American law and the guarantees provided to Congress." He stressed that thousands of Palestinian children suffer from hunger because Netanyahu does not allow trucks loaded with humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.

Operation Iron Swords - By the Numbers

74,787 Gazans injured, 28% adult male

45,000 bombs dropped in Gaza

40,000 Gazans killed, including buried under rubble

33,000 Gaza targets attacked

32,700 Gazans martyred

20,528 Palestinians in Israeli prisons [Haaretz, 20 Mar 2024]

15,000 rocket launched from Gaza

14,793 Israelis were injured [i24 TV]

13,430 Gazan children martyred

13,000 HAMAS combatants killed [N12]

12,000 HAMAS combatants killed [IDF]

11,000 arrested by Israelis in the West Bank in 2023

9,920 Gazan women martyred

9,000 Palestinians in Israeli prisons

9,000 IDF psychological assistance

8,000 Gazans missing under the rubble

7,740 arrested by Israelis in the West Bank since Oct.7th

6,000 HAMAS combatants killed [HAMAS]

5,500 IDF wounded [reports]

4,750 West Bank Palestinians wounded

3,484 administrative detainees

3,600 wanted persons arrested throughout Judea and Samaria

3,079 IDF wounded [IDF]

2,100 Gazan women are missing

1,609 terrorists killed on the first day

1,600 wanted persons arrested throughout Judea and Samaria affiliated with Hamas

1,160 Israelis killed on the first day

595 Israeli officers and soldiers killed

433 West Bank Palestinians martyred

252 Israeli officers and soldiers killed in Gaza

222 Hezbollah fighters killed in Lebanon

126 people recovered, including 91 Israelis, 11 bodies, and 24 foreign workers

116 living hostages in Palestinian custody

50 civilians killed in Lebanon

29 IDF deaths were caused by "friendly fire"

15 Israelis killed in the West Bank and Israel

Many of these numbers fluctate, up and down, with no apparent explanation. This list records the highest number reliably reported for each matter, under the theory that reality with catch up with reports, as is relentlessly the case.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 26 March 2024 - Day 761

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The UK Ministry of Defence reported that recruiting adverts have been posted for the new 44th Army Corps in Luga, in the newly-established Leningrad Military District. Russia is making efforts to expand its forces in the north-west of the country, as most of its forces remain dedicated to operations in Ukraine.

Russia will almost certainly have to decide whether new units such as the 44th Army Corps remain in their garrison locations once established, or if they are transferred to operations in Ukraine to maintain combat power there. Newly established units have previously been immediately committed to Ukraine, and it is almost certain that the need to sustain operations is hampering Russia's wider force expansion ambitions.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of March 26, there were 50x tactical engagements.

Russian forces launched a total of 4x missile and 52x air strikes, 43x MLRS attacks on positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, the Russian attacks have killed and wounded civilians. Residential apartment blocks and private houses got destroyed and damaged.

Volyn and Polissya axes: no significant changes. No signs of formation of an offensive group.

Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: the adversary maintains its military presence in the Russian areas bordering Ukraine. Russian troops conduct subversion in order to prevent the deployment of Ukrainian troops to threatened axes. Russia continues shelling of Ukrainian settlements from the territory of russia and increases the concentration of mining operations along the state border of Ukraine. Around 10x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Popivka, Iskryskivshchyna, Bilopillya, Velyka Pysarivka (Sumy oblast).

Kup'yans'k axis: no Russian offensive operations reported. The Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Novojehorivka, Ivanivka, Kyslivka (Kharkiv oblast). The Russian invaders fired artillery and mortars at around 10x settlements, including Syn'kivka, Stepova Novoselivka, Kotlyarivka (Kharkiv oblast).

Lyman axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 8x assaults in the vicinities of Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Terny, Yampolivka, and north of Vesele (Donetsk oblast), where Russian forces, using air attacks, made attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Terny, Yampolivka, Spirne (Donetsk oblast).

Bakhmut axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 5x attacks in the vicinities of Bohdanivka, Klishchiivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Kurdyumivka, Chasiv Yar (Donetsk oblast). Around 10x settlements came under artillery and mortar fire, including Bohdanivka, Kalynivka, Klishchiivka (Donetsk oblast).

Avdiivka axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 7x attacks in the vicinities of Berdychi, Semenivka and Pervomais'ke (Donetsk oblast). The Russian occupiers launched air strikes in the vicinities of Berdychi and Novopokrovs'ke (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at around 20x settlements, including Novobakhmutivka, Semenivka, Umans'ke, Nevel's'ke (Donetsk oblast).

Novopavlivka axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to block Russian forces near Novomykhailivka, where the invaders, using air attacks, made 21x attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. The Russian occupiers launched air strikes in the vicinities of Krasnohorivka and Oleksandrivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at around 20x settlements, including Krasnohorivka, Heorhiivka, Paraskoviivka, Kostyantynivka (Donetsk oblast).

Orikhiv axis: Russian forces, with air support, conducted 4x attacks on positions of Ukrainian defenders in the vicinities of Staromaiors'ke (Donetsk oblast), Robotyne and northwest of Verbove (Zaporizhzhia oblast). The adversary launched an air strike in the vicinity of Malynivka (Zaporizhzhia oblast). Around 15x settlements, including Chervone, Bilohir'ya, Shcherbaky, P'yatykhatky (Zaporizhzhia oblast), were under Russian artillery and mortar fire.

Kherson axis: Russian forces executed 3x unsuccessful attacks on positions of Ukrainian defenders in the vicinity of Krynky (Kherson oblast). The Russian occupiers fired artillery and mortars at more than 10 settlements, including Solonchaky, Ivanivka, Tyahynka (Kherson oblast).

During the day of March 26, the Ukrainian Air Force launched air strikes on 2x command posts, 8x concentrations of Russian troops, weapons and military equipment.

The Ukrainian Missile Forces hit 1x air defense system, 1x artillery system, 1x ammunition depot of the Russian invaders.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that over the past 24 hours, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation delivered a group strike by long-range sea-based and ground-based precision weaponry and unmanned aerial vehicles at decision-making centres, Ukrainian Security Service objects, defence industry enterprises, as well as deployment areas of Ukrainian nationalist formations and foreign mercenaries.

All the targets have been engaged. The goal of the strike has been achieved.

In Kupyansk direction, units of the Zapad Group of Forces inflicted losses on enemy units and improved the tactical situation along the front lines.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 20 Ukrainian troops and two motor vehicles.

In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on units of the AFU 54th, 93rd mechanised brigades, and 81st Airmobile Brigade near Belogorovka (Lugansk People's Republic), Kleshcheyevka, and Verkhnekamenka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to more than 425 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, and seven motor vehicles.

Moreover, four electronic warfare stations, one U.S.-made AN/TPQ-36 counter-battery warfare station, and one U.S.-made M777 howitzer were neutralised.

In Avdeyevka direction, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces inflicted losses on enemy units and improved the tactical situation along the front lines.

Four counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 24th, 47th, 59th mechanised brigades, and 25th Airborne Brigade were repelled near Novgorodskoye, Vodyanoye, Pervomayskoye, Tonenkoye, and Berdichi (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 280 Ukrainian troops, two tanks, two armoured fighting vehicles, and six motor vehicles.

In the course of counter-battery warfare, two U.S.-made M777 howitzers, one UK-made AS-90 self-propelled artillery system, one D-20 howitzer, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system were wiped out.

In South Donetsk direction, units of the Vostok Group of Forces delivered strikes and repelled two counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 72nd Mechanised Brigade near Staromayorskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 105 Ukrainian troops, five motor vehicles, two UK-made FH-70 howitzers, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system.

In Kherson direction, as a result of Dnepr Group of Forces' cohesive actions, the tactical situation along the front line was improved, and losses were inflicted on manpower and hardware clusters of the AFU 65th Mechanised Brigade and 108th Territorial Defence Brigade near Rabotino and Novosyolovka (Zaporozhye region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 50 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, and one U.S.-made M777 howitzer.

Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, and Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged AFU manpower and hardware in 114 areas during the day.

Over the past 24 hours, air defence units shot down 131 unmanned aerial vehicles, two S-200 surface-to-air guided missiles converted to hit ground targets, and 15 HIMARS and Vampire MLRS projectiles.

In total, 577 airplanes and 270 helicopters, 17,142 unmanned aerial vehicles, 489 air defence missile systems, 15,604 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,256 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 8,531 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 20,215 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.





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Seven Hackers Associated with Chinese Government Charged with Computer Intrusions Targeting Perceived Critics of China and U.S. Businesses and Politicians

Monday, March 25, 2024

For Immediate Release

Office of Public Affairs

Defendants Operated as Part of the APT31 Hacking Group in Support of China's Ministry of State Security's Transnational Repression, Economic Espionage and Foreign Intelligence Objectives

View the indictment here.

An indictment was unsealed today charging seven nationals of the People's Republic of China (PRC) with conspiracy to commit computer intrusions and conspiracy to commit wire fraud for their involvement in a PRC-based hacking group that spent approximately 14 years targeting U.S. and foreign critics, businesses, and political officials in furtherance of the PRC's economic espionage and foreign intelligence objectives.

The defendants are Ni Gaobin (), 38; Weng Ming (), 37; Cheng Feng (), 34; Peng Yaowen (), 38; Sun Xiaohui (), 38; Xiong Wang (), 35; and Zhao Guangzong (), 38. All are believed to reside in the PRC.

"The Justice Department will not tolerate efforts by the Chinese government to intimidate Americans who serve the public, silence the dissidents who are protected by American laws, or steal from American businesses," said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. "This case serves as a reminder of the ends to which the Chinese government is willing to go to target and intimidate its critics, including launching malicious cyber operations aimed at threatening the national security of the United States and our allies."

"Over 10,000 malicious emails, impacting thousands of victims, across multiple continents. As alleged in today's indictment, this prolific global hacking operation - backed by the PRC government - targeted journalists, political officials, and companies to repress critics of the Chinese regime, compromise government institutions, and steal trade secrets," said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. "The Department of Justice will relentlessly pursue, expose, and hold accountable cyber criminals who would undermine democracies and threaten our national security."

"Today's announcement exposes China's continuous and brash efforts to undermine our nation's cybersecurity and target Americans and our innovation," said FBI Director Christopher Wray. "As long as China continues to target the US and our partners, the FBI will continue to send a clear message that cyber espionage will not be tolerated, and we will tirelessly pursue those who threaten our nation's security and prosperity. This indictment underscores our unwavering commitment to disrupt and deter malicious cyber activity, and safeguard our citizens, businesses, and critical infrastructure from threats in cyberspace."

"The indictment unsealed today, together with statements from our foreign partners regarding related activity, shed further light on the PRC Ministry of State Security's aggressive cyber espionage and transnational repression activities worldwide," said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division. "Today's announcements underscore the need to remain vigilant to cybersecurity threats and the potential for cyber-enabled foreign malign influence efforts, especially as we approach the 2024 election cycle. The Department of Justice will continue to leverage all tools to disrupt malicious cyber actors who threaten our national security and aim to repress fundamental freedoms worldwide."

"These allegations pull back the curtain on China's vast illegal hacking operation that targeted sensitive data from U.S. elected and government officials, journalists, and academics; valuable information from American companies; and political dissidents in America and abroad. Their sinister scheme victimized thousands of people and entities across the world, and lasted for well over a decade," said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. "America's sovereignty extends to its cyberspace. Today's charges demonstrate my office's commitment to upholding and protecting that jurisdiction, and to putting an end to malicious nation state cyber activity."

"The recent indictments against the Chinese actors reaffirm the FBI's relentless dedication to combating cyber threats," said Assistant Director Bryan Vorndran of the FBI Cyber Division. "They serve as a reminder that cyber adversaries who seek to compromise our nation's systems and target US officials cannot rely on the cloak of anonymity and will face consequences for their actions."

"APT31 Group's practices further demonstrate the size and scope of the PRC's state-sponsored hacking apparatus," said Special Agent in Charge Robert W. "Wes" Wheeler Jr. of the FBI Chicago Field Office. "FBI Chicago worked tirelessly to uncover this complex web of alleged foreign intelligence and economic espionage crimes. Thanks to these efforts, as well as our partnerships with the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and fellow Field Offices, the FBI continues to be successful in holding groups accountable and protecting national security."

Overview

As alleged in the indictment and court filings, the defendants, along with dozens of identified PRC Ministry of State Security (MSS) intelligence officers, contractor hackers, and support personnel, were members of a hacking group operating in the PRC and known within the cybersecurity community as Advanced Persistent Threat 31 (the APT31 Group). The APT31 Group was part of a cyberespionage program run by the MSS's Hubei State Security Department, located in the city of Wuhan. Through their involvement with the APT31 Group, since at least 2010, the defendants conducted global campaigns of computer hacking targeting political dissidents and perceived supporters located inside and outside of China, government and political officials, candidates, and campaign personnel in the United States and elsewhere and American companies.

The defendants and others in the APT31 Group targeted thousands of U.S. and foreign individuals and companies. Some of this activity resulted in successful compromises of the targets' networks, email accounts, cloud storage accounts, and telephone call records, with some surveillance of compromised email accounts lasting many years.

Hacking Scheme

The more than 10,000 malicious emails that the defendants and others in the APT31 Group sent to these targets often appeared to be from prominent news outlets or journalists and appeared to contain legitimate news articles. The malicious emails contained hidden tracking links, such that if the recipient simply opened the email, information about the recipient, including the recipient's location, internet protocol (IP) addresses, network schematics, and specific devices used to access the pertinent email accounts, was transmitted to a server controlled by the defendants and those working with them. The defendants and others in the APT31 Group then used this information to enable more direct and sophisticated targeted hacking, such as compromising the recipients' home routers and other electronic devices.

The defendants and others in the APT31 Group also sent malicious tracking-link emails to government officials across the world who expressed criticism of the PRC government. For example, in or about 2021, the conspirators targeted the email accounts of various foreign government individuals who were part of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), a group founded in 2020 on the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests whose stated purpose was to counter the threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party to the international order and democratic principles. The targets included every European Union member of IPAC, and 43 United Kingdom parliamentary accounts, most of whom were members of IPAC or had been outspoken on topics relating to the PRC government.

To gain and maintain access to the victim computer networks, the defendants and others in the APT31 Group employed sophisticated hacking techniques including zero-day exploits, which are exploits that the hackers became aware of before the manufacturer, or the victim were able to patch or fix the vulnerability. These activities resulted in the confirmed and potential compromise of economic plans, intellectual property, and trade secrets belonging to American businesses, and contributed to the estimated billions of dollars lost every year as a result of the PRC's state-sponsored apparatus to transfer U.S. technology to the PRC.

Targeting of U.S. Government Officials and U.S. and Foreign Politicians and Campaigns

The targeted U.S. government officials included individuals working in the White House, at the Departments of Justice, Commerce, Treasury, and State, and U.S. Senators and Representatives of both political parties. The defendants and others in the APT31 Group targeted these individuals at both professional and personal email addresses. Additionally in some cases, the defendants also targeted victims' spouses, including the spouses of a high-ranking Department of Justice official, high-ranking White House officials, and multiple U.S. Senators. Targets also included election campaign staff from both major U.S. political parties in advance of the 2020 election.

The allegations in the indictment regarding the malicious cyber activity targeting political officials, candidates, and campaign personnel are consistent with the March 2021 Joint Report of the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security on Foreign Interference Targeting Election Infrastructure or Political Organization, Campaign, or Candidate Infrastructure Related to the 2020 US Federal Elections. That report cited incidents when Chinese government-affiliated actors "materially impacted the security of networks associated with or pertaining to U.S. political organizations, candidates, and campaigns during the 2020 federal elections." That report also concluded that "such actors gathered at least some information they could have released in influence operations," but which the Chinese actors did not ultimately deploy in such a manner. Consistent with that conclusion, the indictment does not allege that the hacking furthered any Chinese government influence operations against the United States. The indictment's allegations nonetheless serve to underscore the need for U.S. (and allied)

political organizations, candidates, and campaigns to remain vigilant in their cybersecurity posture and in otherwise protecting their sensitive information from foreign intelligence services, particularly in light of the U.S. Intelligence Community's recent assessment

that "[t]he PRC may attempt to influence the U.S. elections in 2024 at some level because of its desire to sideline critics of China and magnify U.S. societal divisions."

Targeting of U.S. Companies

The defendants and others in the APT31 Group also targeted individuals and dozens of companies operating in areas of national economic importance, including the defense, information technology, telecommunications, manufacturing and trade, finance, consulting, legal, and research industries. The defendants and others in the APT31 Group hacked and attempted to hack dozens of companies or entities operating in these industries, including multiple cleared defense contractors who provide products and services to the U.S. military, multiple managed service providers who managed the computer networks and security for other companies, a leading provider of 5G network equipment, and a leading global provider of wireless technology, among many others.

Targeting for Transnational Repression of Dissidents

The defendants and the APT31 Group also targeted individual dissidents around the world and other individuals who were perceived as supporting such dissidents. For example, in 2018, after several activists who spearheaded Hong Kong's Umbrella Movement were nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, the defendants and the APT31 Group targeted Norwegian government officials and a Norwegian managed service provider. The conspirators also successfully compromised Hong Kong pro-democracy activists and their associates located in Hong Kong, the United States, and other foreign locations with identical malware.

The charged defendants' roles in the conspiracy consisted of testing and exploiting the malware used to conduct these intrusions, managing infrastructure associated with these intrusions, and conducting surveillance and intrusions against specific U.S. entities. For example:

Cheng Feng, Sun Xiaohui, Weng Ming, Xiong Wang, and Zhao Guangzong were involved in testing and exploiting malware, including malware used in some of these intrusions.

Cheng and Ni Gaobin managed infrastructure associated with some of these intrusions, including the domain name for a command-and-control server that accessed at least 59 unique victim computers, including a telecommunications company that was a leading provider of 5G network equipment in the United States, an Alabama-based research corporation in the aerospace and defense industries, and a Maryland-based professional support services company.

Sun and Weng operated the infrastructure used in an intrusion into a U.S. company known for its public opinion polls. Sun and Peng Yaowen conducted research and reconnaissance on several additional U.S. entities that were later the victims of the APT31 Group's intrusion campaigns.

Ni and Zhao sent emails with links to files containing malware to PRC dissidents, specifically Hong Kong legislators and democracy advocates, as well as targeting U.S. entities focusing on PRC-related issues.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas M. Pravda, Saritha Komatireddy, and Jessica Weigel for the Eastern District of New York are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance from Matthew Anzaldi and Matthew Chang of the National Security Division's National Security Cyber Section.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Topics: Cybercrime

Countering Nation-State Threats

Components: Office of the Attorney General

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

National Security Division (NSD)

Office of the Deputy Attorney General

USAO - New York, Eastern

Press Release Number: 24-342

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UK: Statement by the Spokesperson on recent malicious cyber activities

European External Action Service (EEAS)

25.03.2024

EEAS Press Team

The European Union expresses its solidarity with the United Kingdom on the impact of malicious cyber activities against their democratic processes.

We continue to monitor and address malicious cyber activities against our societies, democracies and economies, and stand ready to take further action when necessary.

Ahead of the European and national elections, we are providing recommendations and guidance to public and private sector organisations in the EU to raise awareness about these cyber threats and enhance EU cyber resilience.

The EU and Member States remain strongly committed to the adherence to the UN framework of responsible State behaviour in cyberspace as endorsed by all UN Member States.

All States must adhere to these norms and not allow their territory to be used for malicious cyber activities, as called for in bilateral exchanges as well as in multiple EU Statements, including the 2021 Declaration urging Chinese authorities to take action against malicious cyber activities undertaken from its territory.

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US alleges massive Chinese state-backed hacking program

7 Chinese have been charged with hacking offenses tied to China's Ministry of State Security.

By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2024.03.25 -- U.S. Attorney-General Merrick Garland on Monday accused the Chinese government of an effort "to intimidate Americans" and silence dissidents abroad by using a massive state-run hacking program.

The Chinese Embassy denied the claims as "groundless" and said they were part of an ongoing smear campaign by the United States.

Garland's comment came as the U.S. Justice Department unsealed charges against seven Chinese nationals it says are part of a hacking program run by China's Ministry of State Security, or MSS, and has targeted the White House, Congress and critics of Beijing.

"The Justice Department will not tolerate efforts by the Chinese government to intimidate Americans who serve the public, silence the dissidents who are protected by American laws, or steal from American businesses," Garland said after the charges were announced.

"This case serves as a reminder of the ends to which the Chinese government is willing to go to target and intimidate its critics," he said.

A Justice Department statement named the seven accused as Ni Gaobin, Weng Ming, Cheng Feng, Peng Yaowen, Sun Xiaohui, Xiong Wang and Zhao Guangzong. It said they were charged with conspiracy to commit computer intrusions and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

Their "vast illegal hacking operation" was aimed at both "economic espionage and foreign intelligence objectives" and targeted American private companies, journalists, elected officials, academics and Chinese dissidents living in the United States, it said.

Matthew Olsen, assistant U.S. attorney general in charge of national security matters, said that the seven indictments helped to "shed further light" on the "Ministry of State Security's aggressive cyber espionage and transnational repression activities worldwide."

The U.S. State Department said it was offering rewards for any information leading to the arrest of the seven accused hackers. The U.S. Treasury, meanwhile, issued a spate of related sanctions against hackers it said were also tied to the Ministry of State Security.

Hacking program

Known to cyber security experts as Advanced Persistent Threat 31, or APT31, the group was allegedly "part of a cyberespionage program run by the MSS's Hubei State Security Department" in Wuhan.

The alleged hackers stand accused of both "testing and exploiting" the malware used to target people in the United States and of "conducting surveillance and intrusions" against specific people and companies.

Targeted American officials "included individuals working in the White House, at the Departments of Justice, Commerce, Treasury and State, and U.S. Senators and Representatives of both political parties." Other prominent targets included Hong Kong pro-democracy activists, a defense contractor and an American opinion polling company.

The hackers sent out more than 10,000 emails since 2010, the Justice Department said, which had at times "resulted in successful compromises of the targets' networks, email accounts, cloud storage accounts, and telephone call records" that lasted for years.

The emails "often appeared to be from prominent news outlets or journalists and appeared to contain legitimate news articles," it said.

However, they in fact "contained hidden tracking links, such that if the recipient simply opened the email, information about the recipient" was sent back to servers in China, including about their other devices.

They then "used this information to enable more direct and sophisticated targeted hacking" of their targets, including taking control of their home internet routers and devices, it said, enabling them often unfettered access to the professional and personal information.

The hackers typically used "zero-day" exploits, which refers to how long security vulnerabilities have been known to the wider community - meaning, essentially, that the holes had yet to be discovered.

Chinese denial

The charges follow FBI Director Christopher Wray's recent warning that Chinese state-backed hackers were waiting to "wreak havoc" on critical infrastructure in the United States if ordered to do so by Beijing.

Chinese officials have denied those claims. On Monday, they continued to paint the accusations as being part of a smear campaign.

Liu Pengyu, the spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, told Radio Free Asia that China is in fact "a major victim" of cyberattacks and accused the United States of being "the origin and the biggest perpetrator of cyberattacks" worldwide.

He in turn accused American state-backed hackers of targeting Chinese critical infrastructure, a claim U.S. officials have denied.

"China firmly opposes and cracks down on all forms of cyberattacks in accordance with law," Liu said, calling on U.S. officials to "stop smearing other countries under the excuse of cyber security."

"Without valid evidence, the U.S. jumped to an unwarranted conclusion and made groundless accusations against China," he added. "It is extremely irresponsible and is a complete distortion of facts."

But the denials are unlikely to sway officials in Washington.

The U.S. Treasury Department on Monday said it had also issued sanctions against the Wuhan Xiaoruizhi Science and Technology Company, which it called "a front company" of the Ministry of State Security responsible for "multiple malicious cyber operations."

A statement from the Treasury Department said that more Chinese nationals - Zhao Guangzong and Ni Gaobin - were sanctioned for their role in the "front company," which it said specifically targeted critical infrastructure companies and was linked to APT31.

Zhao and Ni are specifically accused of targeting the U.S. Naval Academy and the U.S. Naval War College's China Maritime Studies Institute in a "spear-phishing" attack that took place in 2010.

The sanctions ban American citizens and companies from doing business with those targeted, including providing any banking and financial services, and bans those targeted from U.S. soil.

Similar sanctions were also issued by the United Kingdom, with British Foreign Secretary David Cameron calling the alleged hacking program "completely unacceptable" and a threat to freedoms worldwide.

"One of the reasons that it is important to make this statement is that other countries should see the detail of threats that our systems and democracies face," Cameron said, adding that he had already raised his concerns directly with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Edited by Malcolm Foster

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Ryanggang province restores coronavirus emergency command as cases increase

Even though schools and daycares were shut down for 10 days, a disease believed to be COVID-19 continues to spread.

By Kim Jieun for RFA Korean 2024.03.25 -- A return to a Coronavirus Emergency Quarantine posture is underway in North Korea's Ryanggang province as cases of a respiratory disease with symptoms similar to COVID-19 increase, and at least one more child has died, residents told Radio Free Asia.

RFA previously reported that at least five children in the central northern province died after developing symptoms, causing the local government to shut down schools and daycares for 10 days. Sources said that the 10 days have passed and only high schools have reopened.

Closing the schools did not stop the spread of the disease, and now authorities are restarting the province's Coronavirus Emergency Quarantine Command, a system which the country relied on to get through the "maximum emergency" that started in May 2022, which it declared victory over in August of that year.

"These days, the authorities have reactivated the Coronavirus Emergency Quarantine Command," a resident of the province told RFA Korean on condition of anonymity for security reasons. "The head of the neighborhood watch unit went from house to house and announced an inspection from the Coronavirus Emergency Quarantine Command."

As part of the emergency procedures, doctors are visiting each house to measure residents' temperatures twice a day, providing care for those with high fevers, he said.

Reports of deaths due to spreading disease are shocking to residents, causing anxiety, the resident said, referring to the case of a recently deceased 10-year-old elementary school student.

Some residents say the twice-daily temperature checks are an invasion of privacy, and believe that restarting the emergency is excessive and amounts to propaganda, because the government offers very little help to sick people, the source said.

'Quarantine propaganda'

Another resident from the province, who requested anonymity to speak freely, said quarantine officials were active in the city of Hyesan since reactivating the emergency command, and they are carrying out what she termed as "quarantine propaganda."

"Wouldn't it be more effective to treat infected patients by giving them antibiotics rather than reactivating the Emergency Quarantine Command?" she said.

Antibiotics are however useless against COVID-19, which is a viral, not bacterial illness, though respiratory illnesses like mycoplasma pneumonia can be caused by bacteria.

North Korea's state-run Rodong Sinmun newspaper published hygiene information related to that disease on March 11, warning that the disease can be severe in frail people and children, even leading to death.

But such information is useless, according to the first resident.

"In reality, infected patients have no choice but to treat themselves," he said. "If they don't have money, they have no choice but to die."

Translated by Claire S. Lee. Edited by Eugene Whong and Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Former San Francisco Mayor Frank Jordan speaks while announcing his endorsement of Daniel Lurie in the San Francisco mayoral race during a news conference held on the Little Marina Green at Crissy Field on Wednesday. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle

One of San Franciscos former mayors is throwing his weight behind nonprofit founder Daniel Luries campaign to unseat Mayor London Breed this year as the fight for key endorsements in the competitive race heats up.

Frank Jordan, who served as the citys 40th mayor from 1992 to 1996, announced his support for the Levi Strauss heirs mayoral bid Wednesday, praising Luries work at the anti-poverty nonprofit Tipping Point Community and saying he trusted Lurie to spend the citys $14.6 billion budget effectively. Jordan also called Lurie a consensus builder who would represent a new era of accountable leadership.

For Lurie, Jordans endorsement could help strengthen his political credentials as he looks to convince voters that hes ready to run San Francisco despite having never served in public office. Endorsements from big political groups such as the local Democratic Party, which moderates dominate after the recent election, are still up for grabs and could carry significant weight as Breed, Lurie and other candidates try to consolidate support in a crowded race.

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Im encouraging Daniel Lurie to be the next mayor because he has the ability, the integrity, the clarity of vision, the determination and the tireless energy to restore San Francisco to its rightful position as a world-class city, Jordan said at a news conference with Lurie near Crissy Field.

Lurie also used the support of Jordan, a former city police chief, as an opportunity to further discuss his plans for drug policy, which has so far been one of the dominant issues in the mayors race. Lurie told reporters Wednesday that, if elected, hed declare a citywide state of emergency around fentanyl to fast-track and better coordinate government resources to address the rampant public drug markets and skyrocketing overdose deaths amid the crisis.

We dont have time to wait while record numbers of people die on our streets, Lurie said.



Lurie said his declaration would be more effective than what he called the narrow and failed 90-day state of emergency that Breeds administration instituted in the Tenderloin in late 2021 and early 2022.

Its not clear exactly how Lurie would justify his proposed state of emergency under city law.

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The City Charter allows for the exercise of certain local emergency powers based on sudden, unexpected circumstances significantly threatening lives, property or public welfare and requiring immediate action, Jen Kwart, a spokesperson for the City Attorneys Office, said in an email.

Still, Jordan praised Luries idea, saying an emergency declaration could help the city use more creative, different ways to get to solutions than were seeing today.

Jordan is one of five surviving former San Francisco mayors. Another former mayor, Mark Farrell, who was appointed the citys 44th mayor for six months in 2018, is running against Breed and Lurie.

Former Mayor Willie Brown, who turned 90 this month and remains an influential figure in the city, appears likely to endorse Breed, whom he has backed in the past. After unseating Jordan in the 1995 mayors race, Brown served as mayor from 1996 to 2004.

Brown could not be immediately reached for comment Wednesday. But he recently told NBC Bay Area that he thought Breed can defeat anybody who runs against her for a job she already has.

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I think she is smart enough, clever enough and good enough  and functional, productively, enough  to beat any of those guys that are now running or thinking about running, Brown said.

Its not clear whether Gov. Gavin Newsom, who was mayor of San Francisco from 2004 to 2011, has decided to support anyone in this years mayoral election  or if he will. Spokespeople for Newsom did not immediately return requests for comment.

Art Agnos, mayor from 1988 to 1992, said hes waiting until the nomination period ends in June to decide whom hell endorse  if anyone. Agnos said that Breed, Lurie and Farrell are all good candidates, they have good records and I think the city is going to benefit from a lively competition between them.

But the race is still missing one candidate whom Agnos would like to see enter the fray: Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin. The longtime supervisor for North Beach and Chinatown has privately told associates he will run for mayor this year, but he has not officially announced his campaign. Agnos this week penned an op-ed in the San Francisco Examiner defending recent controversial legislation from Peskin that imposed limits on dense housing in certain areas of his district.

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Treasury Sanctions China-Linked Hackers for Targeting U.S. Critical Infrastructure

U.S. Department of the Treasury

March 25, 2024

The U.S. and UK take action against actors affiliated with the Chinese state-sponsored APT 31 hacking group.A

WASHINGTON a Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Wuhan Xiaoruizhi Science and Technology Company, LimitedA (Wuhan XRZ), a Wuhan, China-based Ministry of State Security (MSS) front company that has served as cover for multiple malicious cyber operations. OFAC is also designating Zhao Guangzong and Ni Gaobin, two Chinese nationals affiliated with Wuhan XRZ,for their roles in malicious cyber operations targeting U.S. entities that operate within U.S. critical infrastructure sectors, directly endangering U.S. national security.A This action is part of a collaborative effort with the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of State, and the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).A

People's Republic of China (PRC) state-sponsored malicious cyber actors continue to be one of the greatest and most persistent threats to U.S. national security, as highlighted in the most recent Office of the Director of National IntelligenceA Annual Threat Assessment.

"The United States is focused on both disrupting the dangerous and irresponsible actions of malicious cyber actors, as well as protecting our citizens and our critical infrastructure," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. "Through our whole-of-government approach and in close coordination with our British partners, Treasury will continue to leverage our tools to expose these networks and protect against these threats."

Today, the Department of Justice unsealed indictments of Zhao Guangzong, Ni Gaobin, and five other defendants; and the U.S. Department of State announced aA Rewards for Justice offer for information on these individuals, their organization, or any associated individuals or entities; and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office implemented matching sanctions.

APT 31: A CHINESE MALICIOUS CYBER GROUP

An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a sophisticated cyber actor or group with the capability to conduct advanced and sustained malicious cyber activity, often with the goal of maintaining ongoing access to a victim's network. Information security researchers will categorize and name certain APTs based on observed patterns such as the location of the perpetrators, the types of victims targeted, and the techniques used in the malicious cyber activity. APT 31 is a collection of Chinese state-sponsored intelligence officers, contract hackers, and support staff that conduct malicious cyber operations on behalf of the Hubei State Security Department (HSSD). APT 31 has targeted a wide range of high-ranking U.S. government officials and their advisors integral to U.S. national security including staff at the White House; the Departments of Justice, Commerce, the Treasury, and State; members of Congress, including both Democrat and Republican Senators; the United States Naval Academy; and the United States Naval War College's China Maritime Studies Institute.A

APT 31 has targeted victims in some of America's most vital critical infrastructure sectors, including the Defense Industrial Base, information technology, and energy sectors. APT 31 actors have gained unauthorized access to multiple Defense Industrial Base victims, including a defense contractor that manufactured flight simulators for the U.S. military, a Tennessee-based aerospace and defense contractor, and an Alabama-based aerospace and defense research corporation. Additionally, APT 31 actors gained unauthorized access to a Texas-based energy company, as well as a California-based managed service provider.A

In 2010, the HSSD established Wuhan XRZ as a front company to carry out cyber operations. This malicious cyber activity resulted in the surveillance of U.S. and foreign politicians, foreign policy experts, academics, journalists, and pro-democracy activists, as well as persons and companies operating in areas of national importance. In 2018, employees of Wuhan XRZ conducted an APT 31 malicious cyber operation on a Texas-based energy company, gaining unauthorized access.A

OFAC is designating Wuhan XRZ pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13694, as amended by E.O. 13757 (E.O. 13694, as amended), for being responsible for or complicit in, or having engaged in, directly or indirectly cyber enabled activities originating from, or directed by persons located, in whole or in substantial part, outside the United States that are reasonably likely to result in, or has materially contributed to, a significant threat to the national security, foreign policy, or economic health or financial stability of the United States and that have the purpose or effect of harming, or otherwise significantly compromising the provision of services by, a computer or network of computers that support one or more entities in a critical infrastructure sector.A

Zhao Guangzong is a Chinese national who has conducted numerous malicious cyber operations against U.S. victims as a contractor for Wuhan XRZ. Zhao Guangzong was behind the 2020 APT 31 spear phishing operation against the United States Naval Academy and the United States Naval War College's China Maritime Studies Institute. Additionally, Zhao Guangzong has conducted numerous spear phishing operations against Hong Kong legislators and democracy advocates.A

OFAC is designating Zhao Guangzong pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended, for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Wuhan XRZ, an entity whose property or interest in property are blocked pursuant to E.O.A 13694, as amended.

Ni Gaobin is a Chinese national who has conducted numerous malicious cyber operations against U.S. victims. Ni Gaobin assisted Zhao Guangzong in many of his most high profile malicious cyber activities while Zhao Guangzong was a contractor at Wuhan XRZ, including the 2020 spear phishing operation against the United States Naval Academy and United States Naval War College's China Maritime Studies Institute.A

OFAC is designating Ni Gaobin pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended, for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Wuhan XRZ, an entity whose property or interest in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 13694, as amended.

SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS

As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons and entity 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.A

In addition, financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions or activities with the sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctions or be subject to an enforcement action. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.A

The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the SDN List, but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer toA OFAC's Frequently Asked Question 897 here. For detailed information onA the process to submit a request for removal from an OFAC sanctions list, please click here.

Click here for more information on the individuals and entities designated today.

A

###

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UK holds China state-affiliated organisations and individuals responsible for malicious cyber activity

UK calls out pattern of malicious cyber activity by Chinese state-affiliated organisations and individuals targeting democratic institutions and parliamentarians.

25 March 2024

The United Kingdom, supported by allies globally, have today identified that Chinese state-affiliated organisations and individuals were responsible for 2 malicious cyber campaigns targeting democratic institutions and parliamentarians. Partners across the Indo-Pacific and Europe also express solidarity with the UK's efforts to call out malicious cyber activities targeting democratic institutions and electoral processes.

First, the UK can reveal today that the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) - a part of GCHQ - assesses that the UK Electoral Commission systems were highly likely compromised by a Chinese state-affiliated entity between 2021 and 2022.

Second, NCSC assesses it is almost certain that the China state-affiliated Advanced Persistent Threat Group 31 (APT31) conducted reconnaissance activity against UK parliamentarians during a separate campaign in 2021. The majority of those targeted were prominent in calling out the malign activity of China. No parliamentary accounts were successfully compromised.

This is the latest in a clear pattern of malicious cyber activity by Chinese state-affiliated organisations and individuals targeting democratic institutions and parliamentarians in the UK and beyond.

In response, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has today summoned the Chinese Ambassador to the UK, and sanctioned a front company and 2 individuals who are members of APT31.A Concurrently, the United States is designating the same persons and entity for malicious cyber activity. We greatly value our close coordination and cooperation with the US in addressing these threats. A This sends a clear message that we will not tolerate malicious cyber activity against democratic institutions and parliamentarians.

Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron said:

It is completely unacceptable that China state-affiliated organisations and individuals have targeted our democratic institutions and political processes. While these attempts to interfere with UK democracy have not been successful, we will remain vigilant and resilient to the threats we face. I raised this directly with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and we have today sanctioned 2 individuals and one entity involved with the China state-affiliated group responsible for targeting our parliamentarians. We will always defend ourselves from those who seek to threaten the freedoms that underpin our values and democracy. One of the reasons that it is important to make this statement is that other countries should see the detail of threats that our systems and democracies face.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said:

The UK will not tolerate malicious cyber activity targeting our democratic institutions. It is an absolute priority for the UK government to protect our democratic system and values. The Defending Democracy Taskforce continues to coordinate work to build resilience against these threats. I hope this statement helps to build wider awareness of how politicians and those involved in our democratic processes around the world are being targeted by state-sponsored cyber operations. We will continue to call out this activity, holding the Chinese government accountable for its actions.

Home Secretary James Cleverly said:

It is reprehensible that China sought to target our democratic institutions. China's attempts at espionage did not give them the results they wanted and our new National Security Act has made the UK an even harder target. Our upcoming elections, at local and national level, are robust and secure. Democracy and the rule of law is paramount to the United Kingdom. Targeting our elected representatives and electoral processes will never go unchallenged.

This statement today sees the international community once again call on the Chinese government to demonstrate its credibility as a responsible cyber actor. The UK will continue to call out malicious cyber activity that infringes on our national security and democracy.

The UK believes these behaviours are part of large-scale espionage campaign. We have been clear that the targeting of democratic institutions is completely unacceptable. To date, cumulative attempts to interfere with UK democracy and politics have not been successful. The UK has bolstered its defences against these types of incidents. The Defending Democracy Taskforce and the National Security Act 2023 give government, Parliament, the security services, and law enforcement agencies the tools they need to disrupt hostile activity. The NCSC has also published guidance to help high-risk individuals, including parliamentarians, to bolster their resilience to cyber threats, as well as advice to help organisations improve their security.

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From Offshoot To 'Spearhead': The Rise Of IS-K, Islamic State's Afghanistan Branch

By Abubakar Siddique March 26, 2024



Since its emergence a decade ago, the Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) militant group has largely focused its attacks on Afghanistan and Pakistan.

But IS-K, the Afghanistan branch of Islamic State (IS), has carried out an increasing number of mass-casualty attacks outside its stronghold in South Asia, including in Iran and Russia.

Experts say the deadly attack on a concert venue outside Moscow on March 22, which was widely blamed on IS-K, shows the affiliate's growing capabilities and ambitions, as well as its leading role in the umbrella organization.

"This branch has become the spearhead, the leading internationally minded branch of the Islamic State," said Lucas Webber, co-founder and editor of MilitantWire.com.

Webber said IS's central leadership in Syria and Iraq has had to "focus more on survival, regrouping, and reconstituting its capabilities and its networks" after the group was largely defeated and dismantled by a U.S.-led coalition in 2019.

"It's essentially become the parent organization of the IS franchise," said Webber, referring to IS-K, which first appeared in Afghanistan in late 2014, the same year that IS seized large swaths of Syria and Iraq and declared a self-styled caliphate.

IS also has branches in the Arabian Peninsula, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Caucasus.

External Operations

As well as continuing to carry out attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan, IS-K appears to have shifted its focus to external operations in recent months.

In January, IS-K was blamed for killing more than 90 people in Iran's southern city of Kerman, the deadliest attack in the Islamic republic in decades.

On March 22, gunmen stormed the Crocus City Hall concert venue in the Moscow region, killing at least 139 people, in Russia's worst terrorist violence in two decades.

IS claimed responsibility for the attack. U.S. officials specifically blamed IS-K, while Moscow attributed the attack to Islamic extremists without mentioning the IS affiliate.

IS-K on March 25 threatened to carry out more "massacres" against Russia. Moscow has targeted IS militants in Syria and Africa and forged ties with the Taliban government, a fierce rival of IS-K in Afghanistan.

Webber of MilitantWire.com said IS-K poses a rapidly growing threat to the West. "For the foreseeable future, this seems to be an indication of things to come," he said.

General Michael E. Kurilla, head of the U.S. military's Central Command, told lawmakers on March 21 that IS-K "retains the capability and the will to attack U.S. and Western interests abroad in as little as six months with little to no warning."

Law enforcement in Europe have uncovered several IS-K plots in recent years.

German police on March 19 said they had arrested two suspected IS-K supporters. They were accused of plotting to attack the Swedish parliament.

In July, police in Germany and the Netherlands arrested nine people who they said were in contact with IS-K.

During the past year, the group has threatened to carry out attacks in Sweden, the Netherlands, and Denmark after cases of Koran burnings in those countries.

'Loose Network Of Cells'

After its emergence, IS-K initially captured small pockets of territory in eastern and northern Afghanistan as part of IS's broader aim of expansion throughout South and Central Asia.

But IS-K was driven out from its territorial strongholds around 2019 after coming under increasing fire from Afghan and international forces as well as the Taliban. Since then, IS-K has embarked on a new strategy of urban warfare.

"We are witnessing a new phase of the Islamic State-Khorasan," said Riccardo Valle, the co-founder of The Khorasan Diary, an online platform that tracks militant groups in Afghanistan and Pakistan.



He said IS-K has evolved from a group aiming to seize territory like a "traditional army" to a "loose network of cells, which tends to carry out more lethal attacks."

IS-K is made up of Afghan and foreign fighters. In a report published in June 2023, the UN Security Council said the number of IS-K militants in Afghanistan ranged "from 4,000 to 6,000," including family members. Some experts estimate that the number is much lower.

Sara Harmouch, a terrorism and defense policy expert in Washington, said IS-K's focus on asymmetric warfare instead of territorial control has enabled the group to adapt to local conditions and withstand counterterrorism operations.

"This flexibility could make IS-K a more dynamic and resilient leader within the IS network, capable of navigating post-caliphate era complexities," she said.

Harmouch said IS-K's ability to carry out high-profile attacks outside Afghanistan and Pakistan has raised its profile and indicated its expanding capabilities.

"This visibility could position IS-K as a leading figure within the broader IS network, especially in attracting recruits and resources," she said.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/islamic-state-khorasan-rise-afghanistan-growing-ambitions/32878355.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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The ChargA d'Affaires at the Chinese Embassy attended the summons after attribution of cyber attacks to Chinese state-affiliated individuals and organisations.

26 March 2024

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson said:

Today, on instruction from the Foreign Secretary, the ChargA d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in London was summoned to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

The FCDO set out the government's unequivocal condemnation of Chinese state-affiliated organisations and individuals undertaking malicious cyber activity against UK democratic institutions and parliamentarians.A The UK government would not tolerate such threatening activity, and would continue to take strong action with partners across the globe to respond.

The summons followed yesterday's announcement in Parliament by the Deputy Prime Minister, that the UK had imposed tough, targeted sanctions on a front company and 2 individuals involved in China's malicious cyber activity targeting officials, government entities, and parliamentarians around the world.
Britain Summons China Envoy To Hear Hacking Complaints

By VOA News March 26, 2024

Beijing's chargA d'affaires at its London embassy was summoned by Britain Tuesday to hear complaints about a series of cyber attacks, blamed on alleged China-backed hackers.

The summons comes after Britain, the United States and New Zealand lodged claims in rapid succession that China-backed hacking groups have targeted politicians, journalists, activists and even Britain's election watchdog. Beijing denies the claims.

On Tuesday, Britain's Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office in London issued a statement describing the summons and setting out an "unequivocal condemnation" of those involved in the attacks.

The statement also read that "The UK Government would not tolerate such threatening activity, and would continue to take strong action with partners across the globe to respond."

Britain and the U.S. have sanctioned Chinese individuals and entities over the attacks. The Chinese foreign ministry responded, saying it "opposes and cracks down on all forms of cyber attacks."

Earlier on Tuesday, New Zealand said a Chinese state-sponsored hacking operation targeted New Zealand's parliament in 2021.

New Zealand's Government Communications Security Bureau or GCSB said it linked malicious cyber activity against the country's parliament to the group Advanced Persistent Threat 40, which the GCSB said is linked to China's Ministry of State Security.

"The use of cyber-enabled espionage operations to interfere with democratic institutions and processes anywhere is unacceptable," the minister responsible for the GCSB, Judith Collins, said in a statement.

China's embassy in Wellington rejected New Zealand's accusations, calling them "groundless and irresponsible."

"We have never, nor will we in the future, interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including New Zealand," the embassy said in a statement.

American and British authorities announced criminal charges and sanctions on Monday against seven hackers believed to be living in China and linked to the Chinese government.

The hacking operation was attributed to Advanced Persistent Threat 31, or APT31, an extensive Chinese state-backed operation targeting U.S. officials, journalists, corporations, pro-democracy activists and the United Kingdom's election watchdog.

The campaign, which started in 2010, sought to spy on and intimidate high-level political figures and critics of the Chinese government. It also intended to gather trade secrets from American corporations.

"The United States is focused on both disrupting the dangerous and irresponsible actions of malicious cyber actors, as well as protecting our citizens and our critical infrastructure," Brian Nelson, undersecretary of the Treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence, said in a statement.

"Through our whole-of-government approach and in close coordination with our British partners, Treasury will continue to leverage our tools to expose these networks and protect against these threats."

In a statement, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said that "the Justice Department will not tolerate efforts by the Chinese government to intimidate Americans who serve the public, silence the dissidents who are protected by American laws, or steal from American businesses."

He added that the "case serves as a reminder of the ends to which the Chinese government is willing to go to target and intimidate its critics."

The British government released a related announcement, imposing sanctions on two of the hackers for a breach that might have given them access to information about tens of millions of U.K. voters, although some of the information was already in the public domain.

The Foreign Office said Monday the hack of the election registers "has not had an impact on electoral processes, has not affected the rights or access to the democratic process of any individual, nor has it affected electoral registration."

British cybersecurity officials also said that APT31 hackers engaged in "reconnaissance activity" targeting British members of parliament who criticized Beijing in 2021. One such parliamentarian is Iain Duncan Smith.

"Personally, I've had a wolf warrior that was impersonating me for some time using a fake email address, emailing all sorts of politicians around the world, saying that I'd recanted my views, also saying basically that I was a liar a all these sorts of things to various people," Smith told VOA.

"I only came to know about it because I know some of them, and they were sending this back to me to say, 'Why are you sending me emails recanting and basically calling yourself a liar?'" Smith said.

While no parliamentary accounts were successfully breached, prosecutors noted that hackers sent over 10,000 emails impersonating journalists and other figures. These emails contained malicious code that would give hackers access to the victims' location, IP addresses and devices.

APT31 had previously been accused of targeting presidential campaigns before the 2020 general election, as well as the Finland parliament's information systems.

U.S. officials have consistently pursued legal action against Chinese state-linked hackers and expressed concerns about potential interference in American presidential politics. Despite a 2021 intelligence assessment finding no evidence of Chinese interference in the 2020 election, tensions persist over cybersecurity threats.

The recent indictment of the hackers does not change the assessment's conclusions and presents no allegations that the Chinese government was trying to influence the U.S. through the hackings.

It does highlight, however, the need for continued vigilance, particularly with the approaching 2024 election, according to Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen, the Justice Department's top national security official.

"Today's announcements underscore the need to remain vigilant to cybersecurity threats and the potential for cyber-enabled foreign malign influence efforts, especially as we approach the 2024 election cycle," Olsen said.

The Chinese Embassy in London called the charges "completely fabricated and malicious slanders," and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told countries that they should base their claims on evidence and not smear other countries without factual evidence.

VOA's Mandarin Service contributed to this report. Some information was provided by The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.

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New Zealand Links Parliament Hacking to China State-Backed Group

By VOA News March 26, 2024

New Zealand said Tuesday a Chinese state-sponsored hacking operation targeted New Zealand's parliament in 2021, an allegation that came a day after the United States and Britain took actions in response to their own attacks by China-backed hacking groups.

New Zealand's Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) said it linked malicious cyber activity against the country's parliament to the group Advanced Persistent Threat 40, which the GCSB said is linked to China's Ministry of State Security.

"The use of cyber-enabled espionage operations to interfere with democratic institutions and processes anywhere is unacceptable," Minister Responsible for the GCSB Judith Collins said in a statement.

China's Embassy in Wellington rejected New Zealand's accusations, calling them "groundless and irresponsible."

"We have never, nor will we in the future, interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including New Zealand," the embassy said in a statement.

American and British authorities announced criminal charges and sanctions on Monday against seven hackers believed to be living in China and linked to the Chinese government.

The operation was carried out by a hacking group called Advanced Persistent Threat 31, or APT31, an extensive Chinese state-backed operation targeting U.S. officials, journalists, corporations, pro-democracy activists and the United Kingdom's election watchdog.

The campaign, which started in 2010, sought to spy on and intimidate high-level political figures and critics of the Chinese government. It also intended to gather trade secrets from American corporations.

"The United States is focused on both disrupting the dangerous and irresponsible actions of malicious cyber actors, as well as protecting our citizens and our critical infrastructure," Brian Nelson, undersecretary of the Treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence, said in a statement.

"Through our whole-of-government approach and in close coordination with our British partners, Treasury will continue to leverage our tools to expose these networks and protect against these threats."

In a statement, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said that "the Justice Department will not tolerate efforts by the Chinese government to intimidate Americans who serve the public, silence the dissidents who are protected by American laws, or steal from American businesses."

He added that the "case serves as a reminder of the ends to which the Chinese government is willing to go to target and intimidate its critics."

The British government released a related announcement, imposing sanctions on two of the hackers for a breach that might have given them access to information about tens of millions of U.K. voters, although some of the information was already in the public domain.

The Foreign Office said Monday the hack of the election registers "has not had an impact on electoral processes, has not affected the rights or access to the democratic process of any individual, nor has it affected electoral registration."

British cybersecurity officials also said that APT31 hackers engaged in "reconnaissance activity" targeting British parliamentarians who criticized Beijing in 2021. One such parliamentarian is Iain Duncan Smith.

"Personally, I've had a wolf warrior that was impersonating me for some time using a fake email address, emailing all sorts of politicians around the world, saying that I'd recanted my views, also saying basically that I was a liar a all these sorts of things to various people," Smith told VOA.

"I only came to know about it because I know some of them, and they were sending this back to me to say, 'Why are you sending me emails recanting and basically calling yourself a liar?'" Smith said.

While no parliamentary accounts were successfully breached, prosecutors noted that hackers sent over 10,000 emails impersonating journalists and other figures. These emails contained malicious code that would give hackers access to the victims' location, IP addresses and devices.

APT31 had previously been accused of targeting presidential campaigns before the 2020 general election, as well as Finland parliament's information systems.

U.S. officials have consistently pursued legal action against Chinese state-linked hackers and expressed concerns about potential interference in American presidential politics. Despite a 2021 intelligence assessment finding no evidence of Chinese interference in the 2020 election, tensions persist over cybersecurity threats.

The recent indictment against the hackers does not change the assessment's conclusions and presents no allegations that the Chinese government was trying to influence the U.S. through the hacking.

It does highlight, however, the need for continued vigilance, particularly with the approaching 2024 election, according to Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen, the Justice Department's top national security official.

"Today's announcements underscore the need to remain vigilant to cybersecurity threats and the potential for cyber-enabled foreign malign influence efforts, especially as we approach the 2024 election cycle," Olsen said.

The Chinese Embassy in London called the charges "completely fabricated and malicious slanders," and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told countries that they should base their claims on evidence and not smear other countries without factual evidence.

Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press and Reuters.

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Ex-Brazilian President Stayed at Hungarian Embassy After Revelations of Coup Investigation

By VOA News March 26, 2024

Lawyers for former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro are denying speculation that their client may have been attempting to evade arrest when he stayed at the Hungarian embassy for two nights last month.

The New York Times reported Monday on its website that Bolsonaro stayed at the embassy between Feb. 12-14, highlighted by security camera video depicting Ambassador MiklAs Halmai greeting the former president when he arrived at the embassy, Bolsonaro walking in the parking lot at various times, and ending with footage of him leaving the embassy.

His lawyers issued a statement late Monday saying Bolsonaro was invited to stay at the Hungarian embassy to maintain contacts with officials of "the friendly country" and to share "updates on the political situation of both nations." They said any other interpretation about the visit is "fictional" in nature.

Bolsonaro is a close ally of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a fellow leader of a global far-right movement.

Bolsonaro's stay at the embassy came days after investigators seized his passports and arrested two of his aides on suspicion they plotted to ignore his loss to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in the 2022 presidential election and keep Bolsonaro in office.

Brazil's foreign ministry summoned Halmai Monday night to explain why he hosted Balsonaro at the embassy.

The Associated Press is reporting that Brazil's national police are investigating the event, while AFP says Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who also serves as head of the electoral tribunal, has given Bolsonaro 48 hours to explain his stay at the Hungarian embassy.

Bolsonaro is the subject of several other investigations. Police have recommended he face criminal charges for allegedly falsifying his COVID-19 vaccination records, and he is accused of misappropriating gifts received from other nations, including jewelry offered by Saudi Arabia.

He has been barred from seeking public office for eight years for spreading false electoral information during the 2022 election.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters, Agence France-Presse.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on March 25, 2024

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

2024-03-25 22:50

At the invitation of Premier Li Qiang of the State Council, Prime Minister of theaNetherlands Mark Rutte will pay a working visit to China from March 26 to 27.

On March 28, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress Zhao Leji will attend upon invitation the opening plenary of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 in Hainan and deliver a keynote speech.

CCTV: The China Development Forum 2024 opened in Beijing yesterday. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Chubb Group Evan G. Greenberg noted in the letter from the Co-Chair that a strong and prosperous China that supports and invests in the international system is a force for good in the world and this year's forum will focus on "The Continuous Development of China." Amid the rhetoric of "China peak" and "cutting China out" advocated by individual Western politicians and media outlets, how do you view the message from the Forum?

Lin Jian: The China Development Forum 2024 was held in Beijing from March 24 to 25. Premier Li Qiang attended the opening plenary and delivered a keynote speech. President of the World Bank Ajay Banga, Managing Director of the IMF Kristalina Georgieva, and about 400 guests, including Chinese and foreign scholars, entrepreneurs, government officials and representatives from international organizations, attended the opening plenary.a

This year's Forum sent out several strong and positive messages. Number one, the momentum of China's economic rebound continues to strengthen. New industries, new models and new driving forces are growing at a faster pace. The fundamentals of China's long-term economic growth, namely strong resilience, vast potential and ample vitality, remain unchanged. Number two, the Chinese government has always been an advocate and a good companion on the development and growth path of enterprises, and worked to bring efforts together for shared success. Number three, China will take practical and effective actions to promote high-quality development, expand domestic demand, build a modern industrial structure at a faster pace, push forward green transformation and inject more certainty and positive energy into the recovery and stable development of the world economy. Number four, China will continue to foster a world-class business environment that is market-oriented, law-based and internationalized, steadily advance institutional opening up and link with the world at a higher level of openness.

I would like to stress that no matter how the international landscape evolves, China will always seek development by engaging the world and staying connected, and keep generating new opportunities for the world through our development. Opening up will always remain our basic national policy and we will continue to follow the opening-up strategy of win-win cooperation. The global business community is more than welcome to keep investing in China and explore the Chinese market. We look forward to working with all friends from the business community to write a new chapter of open cooperation and mutual benefit.

CCTV: The Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said yesterday in an interview that the resupply on March 23 is just an ordinary rotation and resupply or provision operation, but China Coast Guard launched water cannon attack to drive away the Filipino resupply vessels. He said the Philippines will not be deterred or intimidated. The Philippine National Task Force West Philippine Sea spokesperson denied that there is an agreement between China and the Philippines on resupply to Ren'ai Jiao. On March 23, the US State Department Spokesperson condemned the dangerous actions by China against lawful Philippine maritime operations in the South China Sea and said that China's actions obstruct the freedom of navigation, destabilize the region and show clear disregard for international law. The US calls upon China to abide by the ruling of the South China Sea arbitration. The US reaffirms that the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty extends to armed attacks, including those on Philippine Coast Guard. What's China's comment?a a

Lin Jian: Ren'ai Jiao is part of China's Nansha Qundao and has always been part of China's territory. On March 23, the Philippines once again broke its promise by sending a supply vessel and two Coast Guard vessels to illegally intrude into the adjacent waters of Ren'ai Jiao in the name of resupply of necessities. In fact, this Philippine resupply mission is not to send necessities, but to bring construction materials to the military vessel illegally grounded at Ren'ai Jiao for its repair and reinforcement in an attempt to build a permanent outpost on China's uninhabited reef so as to permanently and illegally occupy Ren'ai Jiao. The Philippines has repeatedly gone back on its own words, refused to fulfill its commitment, seriously violated its promise to China and violated Article 5 of the DOC. In the face of the intrusion by the Philippine vessels, China Coast Guard had to take necessary law enforcement measures. The actions taken on the scene were justified, lawful, professional, restrained, and beyond reproach. China urges the Philippines to immediately stop infringing on China's sovereignty and rights and stop the provocations. If the Philippines does not change course, China will continue to take resolute steps to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

The relevant US statement is a clear misrepresentation of facts. The US is not a party to the South China Sea issue, yet it keeps meddling in the issue, sowing discord concerning maritime issues between China and the Philippines and falsely accusing China, causing instability in the region. The US has arbitrarily threatened to resort to the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty and endorsed the Philippines' acts of infringing on China's sovereignty. Such moves seriously violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and jeopardize regional peace and stability.

The South China Sea Arbitration violated the basic principle of state consent in international law. The award is illegal, null and void, and has no binding effect whatsoever. Any attempt of citing the illegal award of the South China Sea Arbitration to undermine China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests will not succeed. There has never been any problem with the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. Over 100,000 merchant vessels now travel in the region annually and not a single ship has ever encountered hurdles. However, the US and certain countries made infringements and provocations in the South China Sea in the name of freedom of navigation, undermining peace and stability in the South China Sea. This is sheer gangster logic.

China is committed to safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and at the same time working with regional countries to keep the South China Sea peaceful and stable. We hope that relevant parties will see the facts and truth, uphold objectiveness, and fully respect China's rights and interests and the efforts made by regional countries for a peaceful and stable South China Sea.

Phoenix TV: We noted recent media reports that US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen will visit China in April. Can you confirm this?

Lin Jian: China and the US have maintained communication on economic and trade issues. On your specific question, I'd refer you to competent authorities.

I want to stress that sound and steady China-US economic and trade ties would be beneficial for the two countries and the world at large. The US needs to work with China to create favorable conditions for the bilateral economic and trade ties, and provide a fair, transparent and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese companies.

a

ITV: The British government is thought to be preparing sanctions and a government policy response to cyberattacks against the electoral commission in the UK and more than 40 British members of parliament, which it believes were conducted by what it says are state-sponsored Chinese hackers. What is your response?

Lin Jian: Cybersecurity is a global challenge. China is a major victim of cyberattacks. We have firmly fought and stopped all kinds of malicious cyber activities in accordance with the law, and advocated joint response from all countries through dialogue and cooperation. The origin-tracing of cyberattacks is highly complex and sensitive. When investigating and determining the nature of cyber cases, one needs to have adequate and objective evidence, instead of smearing other countries when facts do not exist, still less politicize cybersecurity issues. We hope relevant parties will stop spreading disinformation, take a responsible attitude and jointly safeguard peace and security in the cyberspace. China opposes illegal and unilateral sanctions and will firmly safeguard its lawful rights and interests.

Beijing Youth Daily: The Third International Forum on Democracy: The Shared Human Values was recently held in Beijing. Democratic Practices and Modernization in China Global Survey 2023 released at the forum mentioned that among respondents from 23 countries in the five continents, 95.7 percent on average agreed that all countries need to choose the democracy and modernization approach that fits their national conditions, and over 90 percent recognized the common values of humanity advocated by Chinese modernization on average in three years straight. What's your comment?a

Lin Jian: We noted relevant reports. China always believes that democracy is a common value of humanity. As a Chinese saying goes, "language dialects change every ten miles, and folk customs differ every 100 miles." The ways that countries practice democracy are rooted in their history, culture, tradition and practices, and are thus supposed to be diverse. True democracy means respecting each country's path of democracy commensurate with its own national conditions.

China is committed to whole-process people's democracy. We have developed it by integrating all elements of democracyaprocess and outcome, procedural and substantive, direct and indirect, and upheld people's democracy that also reflects the will of the state. It is a model of socialist democracy that covers all aspects of the democratic process and all sectors of society. It is a true democracy that works. During the two sessions held earlier this month, close to 5,000 deputies and members from all walks of life across China gathered in Beijing to incorporate people's ideas and aspirations into the top-level design of national development. The 2024 Report on the Work of the Government pooled wisdom and around 10,000 people directly participated in the report revision. From the deliberation of the work report to discussions through neighborhood committees on carrying out garbage sorting, and to having doorstep consultation to resolve disputes in communities, these examples show that whole-process people's democracy is vibrant and widely applied across China and has become part and parcel of state governance.

China has explored a democracy path that fits the national conditions and has Chinese characteristics, and greatly enriched humanity's political civilization. China fully respects the right of people in other countries to independently choose their development paths and opposes stoking division and confrontation in the international community in the name of "democracy". We stand ready to work with other countries to advocate the common values of humanity featuring peace, development, equity, justice, democracy and freedom, and further advance humanity's democracy in the spirit of mutual respect and seeking common ground while shelving differences.

AFP: I'd like to ask about the Friday attack at a concert hall in Moscow in which at least 137 people were killed. Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday that the gunmen had attempted to escape to Ukraine, which he claimed had prepared a window for them at the border. But many officials in the United States say that there is no evidence of Ukrainian involvement, instead saying that the Islamic State also known as ISIS is solely responsible. So my question is, who does the Chinese government believe is responsible for this attack?

Lin Jian: China is deeply shocked at the deadly terrorist attack in Moscow region, Russia, which resulted in numerous fatalities. We express our deep condolences over the deceased and sincere sympathies to the injured and those who lost their loved ones. China opposes all forms of terrorism, strongly condemns terrorist attacks and firmly supports all parties' efforts to safeguard national security and stability.

China Daily: It was reported that Russia and China vetoed on March 22 a draft resolution on the Palestinian-Israeli situation proposed by the US at the UN Security Council. Algeria also voted against it. Can you elaborate on China's position?

Lin Jian: China's Permanent Representative to the UN has fully elaborated on China's position in his remarks after the vote at the Security Council. The draft proposed by the US has undergone several iterations, but it has always evaded and dodged the most essential issue, that is, a ceasefire. The final text does not call for an immediate ceasefire. This falls far short of the expectations of the international community. With a responsible attitude of safeguarding fairness and justice, the UN Charter, and the dignity of the Council, and also based on the concerns and strong opposition from the Arab states regarding this draft resolution, China has voted against the draft resolution.

The raging conflict in Gaza has caused a grave humanitarian crisis. There is an urgent need for the Security Council to promote the immediate realization of a ceasefire that is unconditional and durable. This is a prevailing aspiration of the international community. Any action taken by the Security Council should stand the test of history and the questioning of morality and conscience. China will continue supporting the Security Council in taking further actions that are responsible and meaningful as soon as possible and making relentless effort for an early ceasefire in Gaza, alleviation of the humanitarian situation and realization of the two-State solution.

Bloomberg: What is the assessment of the Chinese government on the origins of the terrorist attack in Moscow? You just said now that you condemn all terrorist attacks. So obviously you considered it as a terrorist attack. Is this a terrorist attack from a non-state actor? Would you see this state-sponsored terrorism?

Lin Jian: I stated China's position just now. China opposes all forms of terrorism and strongly condemns terrorist attacks.

Hubei Media Group: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a statement, saying that Hong Kong's Safeguarding National Security Ordinance will have broad implications for the people in Hong Kong as well as US citizens and companies operating there and threatens to further undermine the rights and freedoms of people in Hong Kong; It includes vaguely defined provisions regarding "sedition," "state secrets," and interactions with foreign entities that could be used to curb dissent; Implementing the new law could further violate the PRC's international commitment to maintain Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy, undermine the "One Country, Two Systems" framework, and damage the city's reputation as an international business hub. What is China's comment on this?

Lin Jian: China strongly deplores and firmly opposes the US once and again discrediting and smearing Hong Kong's Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.

The publication in the gazette and coming into force of the Ordinance marks that the Hong Kong SAR has effectively fulfilled its constitutional responsibility stipulated in Article 23 of the Basic Law. It will further consolidate the security foundation for Hong Kong's development, and enable Hong Kong to achieve stability and prosperity at a faster pace. All sectors of Hong Kong have lent high support to this Ordinance.

The Ordinance strikes a balance between safeguarding national security and ensuring rights, freedoms and economic growth, fully made reference to the legislation experience of other countries, especially common law jurisdictions, fully respects and protects human rights, clearly defines elements of crime, and clearly distinguishes between crime and non-crime. It provides effective protection for the normal business activities of foreign institutions, organizations and personnel in Hong Kong and their need for international exchanges. It does not at all undermine the high degree of autonomy in Hong Kong, nor does it change the current capitalist system and way of life in Hong Kong. It will enable Hong Kong to better leverage its unique status and strengths, better deepen exchanges and cooperation with various countries and regions, and better consolidate its status as an international financial, shipping and trade center.

The US itself has an airtight national security system, with a large number of laws and unparalleled extraterritoriality. However, it keeps pointing fingers at Hong Kong's Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. This is sheer political manipulation and hypocritical double standards.

I would like to stress that Hong Kong affairs are purely China's internal affairs, on which no foreign country has the right to make irresponsible remarks. The Chinese government remains unwavering in its determination to safeguard the nation's sovereignty, security and development interests and to implement One Country, Two Systems. We urge the US to earnestly respect China's sovereignty and rule of law in Hong Kong, adhere to the principles of international law and the basic norms governing international relations, and immediately stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs, which are China's internal affairs.

CRI: Following the violence that has erupted across the capital of Haiti, some countries and international organizations have evacuated local nationals and staff. Is China planning such evacuation or is it already underway?aa

Lin Jian: With ongoing tensions in Haiti, local Chinese nationals and institutions are facing threat to their safety and security. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs activated the emergency consular protection mechanism and is working closely with other government agencies and relevant local governments in China. We have instructed our missions overseas to closely follow the situation on the ground, keep issuing security alerts and do everything possible to protect the safety of Chinese personnel in Haiti and help them safely relocate or evacuate. With concerted, relentless efforts, the 24 Chinese nationals who are willing to leave Haiti have been safely evacuated to the Dominican Republic.

We would like to thank the government of the Dominican Republic, the World Food Programme, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti and relevant parties in Haiti for their valuable assistance in this process.

Associated Press of Pakistan: On March 23, a contingent of Chinese People's Liberation Army participated in Pakistan Day military parade in Islamabad. Do you have any comment on that?

Lin Jian: China's Ministry of National Defense has released relevant information. At the invitation of the Pakistani military, the Guard of Honor delegation of the Chinese People's Liberation Army participated in a military parade in Pakistan's capital Islamabad on March 23 in celebration of the 84th Pakistan Day. This fully demonstrates the unique and profound friendship between China and Pakistan, and adds a new story to the reservoir of interactions between the two countries and two militaries.

As an all-weather strategic cooperative partner and iron-clad friend, China sincerely wishes that Pakistan will make new, greater achievements in the cause of national development and progress.

China News Service: It's reported that in response to China's recent statement on "Arunachal Pradesh" (Zangnan of China), India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar said at an academic research activity on March 23 that "Arunachal Pradesh" is a natural part of India and that is something which will be part of the boundary discussions which are taking place between China and India. What's your comments?

Lin Jian: The China-India boundary has never been delimited and is divided into the eastern sector, the middle sector, the western sector, and Sikkim sector. Zangnan in the eastern sector has always been China's territory. China had all along exercised effective administrative jurisdiction over Zangnan until India's illegal occupation. This is a basic fact that cannot be denied.

In 1987, India formed the so-called "Arunachal Pradesh" on China's territory under India's illegal occupation. China issued a statement right then to firmly oppose it and stress that India's move was illegal and null and void. China's position remains unchanged.a

AFP: Over the weekend, there was an attack on a Chinese vessel in the Red Sea. The Huang Pu oil tanker was fired by the Houthis and was damaged by a missile. There were no casualties, but does the Chinese government have any comment on this, especially considering the reports of an agreement last week between China and the Houthis not to attack Chinese-flagged vessels and will the PLA in the region be escorting Chinese vessels in the future?aa

Lin Jian: China always opposes harassment against civilian ships and stands for keeping the shipping lanes in the Red Sea safe in accordance with international law. Meanwhile, China believes that the international community needs to work for an early end to the fighting in Gaza and create necessary conditions for the deescalation of the situation in the Red Sea. China will continue to play a constructive role and strive for the early restoration of peace and tranquility in the Red Sea.a

Dragon TV: It was reported that there is new development in the case in which US accused the Indian side for suspicion of orchestrating a murder-for-hire scheme to assassin a US Sikh leader. The Indian side found after investigation that at least one Indian agent was suspected of involving in the case but the suspect was no longer working for India's intelligence agency at that time. US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu recently noted that the US government takes this incredibly seriously and has raised it at the highest levels with India, and the US encourages India to hold accountable those responsible for this terrible crime. Some reports questioned why the suspect carried out the operation without government authorization. What is China's comment?

Lin Jian: China noted the reports. We hope relevant countries will earnestly observe international law and the basic norms governing international relations.

AFP: I believe you just spoke about the resolution submitted to the United Nations Security Council by the United States calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. This resolution was vetoed by China and Russia on Friday. But today there will be another vote on a new ceasefire proposal that is being put forward by non-permanent members of the UN Security Council. So I'd like to ask specifically what is China's view of today's proposal and how does it intend to vote?

Lin Jian: The raging conflict in Gaza inflicted a severe humanitarian crisis. The international community expects the Council to fulfill its mandate. We've learned that Algeria and other non-permanent members of the Council put forward the relevant draft resolution. The draft unequivocally calls for a ceasefire and an increase in humanitarian assistance in Gaza. This is the right direction for the Council to take action. China supports the draft resolution and commends the efforts made by Algeria and other Arab countries. We hope that the Council will adopt it as soon as possible to send a strong call for ceasefire.

Reuters: The Philippine foreign ministry said on Monday that China had no right to be in Ren'ai Jiao and its moves to "interfere" with routine resupply missions there were unacceptable. Has China exhausted its diplomatic efforts in trying to resolve the situation? What is in China's toolbox that can "fix" this?

Lin Jian: We have made our solemn position clear on the Philippines' March 23 resupply mission to Ren'ai Jiao.

China's position on the Ren'ai Jiao issue is consistent and clear. Ren'ai Jiao is part of Nansha Qundao and is China's territory. We stay committed to handling disputes through dialogue and consultation and our door to dialogue and contact is always open to the Philippines. We urge the Philippines to immediately stop hyping up the bilateral maritime disputes, stop infringing on China's sovereignty and rights, stop making provocations, start honoring its promise, and refrain from any move that may complicate the situation at sea. The Philippines needs to return to the right track of properly handling maritime disputes through negotiation and consultation as soon as possible and work with China to keep the South China Sea peaceful and stable. China will continue to take resolute measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

Bloomberg: Just now you said you urge the Philippines to work in the same direction as China and you urge the Philippines to honor its word. I presume your statement that they should honor their word is in reference to the promise that China says that the Philippines has made on the situation in the Ren'ai Shoal. Can you release the details of this promise? China has repeatedly said that the Philippines has promised certain things on this, but neither side has ever released the details of that promise and the current Philippine government says it doesn't exist. So it would be very useful for us trying to understand the situation if you would actually tell us what was promised and when.

Lin Jian: The Philippines illegally grounded a warship at Ren'ai Jiao in grave violation of China's territorial sovereignty. In May 1999, the Philippines illegally grounded a tank landing ship, Sierra Madre (LT-57), at Ren'ai Jiao. China made stern representations at once and asked the Philippines to immediately tow away the warship. The Philippines promised several times to tow it away as soon as possible, but over 20 years have passed and the Philippines' warship is still sitting there. The two sides reached understandings several times on managing the situation at Ren'ai Jiao. The Philippines has gone back on its own words, refused to fulfill its commitment, repeatedly broken its promise made to China and severely violated Article 5 of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.aa

AFP: The Prime Minister of Sri Lanka has arrived in China today. Can the spokesperson provide any further details on this visit, including whether the issue of Sri Lankan debt will be discussed?a

Lin Jian: We will release relevant information on Sri Lanka's Prime Minister's visit to China. Please check back for updates.

Shenzhen TV: It's reported that on March 23, Paraguay's President Santiago PeAa wrote on Platform X that the 66-year "diplomatic ties" between Paraguay and Taiwan run deep, which does not affect Paraguay's trade with China. Paraguay continues to export soybeans to China. Both Taiwan and Paraguay are surrounded by major powers. What's China's comment?

Lin Jian: There is only one China in the world and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. The one-China principle is a universally recognized norm in international relations and a prevailing consensus among the international community. Standing up for the one-China principle is the right thing to do and is where global opinion trends and the arc of history bends.a

Despite the fact that China is the world's top importer of soybean, our official data shows that China's soybean imports from Paraguay have been zero in recent years. If the government of Paraguay truly puts national development and its people's wellbeing close to its heart, the desirable thing to do is to see the prevailing trend and stand on the right side of history, instead of relying on petty tricks and looking for chances to exploit.

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Hong Kong's new security law sparks global protests, warnings

Demonstrators and governments alike warn of higher risk of detention under the Article 23 legislation.

By Cheryl Tung, Alice Yam and Sam Yuen for RFA Cantonese, Chen Zifei, Amelia Loi and Liu Fei for RFA Mandarin 2024.03.25 -- Hong Kongers took to the streets of cities around the world over the weekend to protest a second national security law known as "Article 23" that critics say violates rights to freedom of expression and association, as governments updated travel advisories to warn citizens of an increased risk of detention.

In London, around 400 protesters holding banners that read "Free Hong Kong, Revolution Now!" -- a slogan of the 2019 pro-democracy movement that has been banned in the city -- rallied outside the British government's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to protest the Safeguarding National Security Law, which took effect on Saturday.

They chanted, "Say no to dictatorship!" and "Hong Kong independence is the only solution!" as they marched through Chinatown en route to the rally, where some trampled the official flag of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in protest.

Rallies also took place in Sydney, Vancouver, Taipei and elsewhere.

The law is the second national security law to be passed since 2020, and will plug "loopholes" left by the 2020 National Security Law imposed on Hong Kong by Beijing in the wake of 2019 protests, according to the government.

But critics say Article 23 will likely extend the existing use of "national security" charges to prosecute peaceful dissent and political opposition, striking a further blow at human rights protections in the city.

The British government on March 22 updated its travel advice for Hong Kong to warn citizens that they could be detained or removed to mainland China for some offenses or prosecuted for "supporting individuals who are considered to be breaking the national security laws," which includes statements critical of the authorities, including online.

Australia updated its advice on the same day to warn its citizens of an increased risk of detention if they travel to Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong has strict laws on national security that can be interpreted broadly," the advice now reads. "You could break the laws without intending to and be detained without charge and denied access to a lawyer. We continue to advise a a high degree of caution."

A Hong Kong government spokesman on Friday condemned the advice as "scaremongering," saying such warnings were "tactics aimed at destabilizing Hong Kong."

Avoiding political topics

Protests against the new law also took place in several Canadian cities including Vancouver, where around 300 protesters formed a human chain and sang the protest anthem "Glory to Hong Kong," which has been banned from public performance or dissemination in Hong Kong.

Others carried placards calling for independence for the city, which has seen a sharp deterioration in its promised rights and freedoms since the 1997 handover to Chinese rule.

Some wore masks, reflecting recent reprisals by authorities in Hong Kong against overseas activists and their families back home.

Two protesters who gave only the nicknames Amy and Candy told RFA that they came to Canada through the lifeboat visa scheme, but they are careful to avoid mentioning politics when speaking with their families back home.

"You have to think carefully before you say anything, because if someone hears you, they could report you and get you arrested," Candy said.

Amy added: "They want to find an excuse to target anyone they don't like."

A spokeswoman for protest organizers Vancouver Brothers who gave only the nickname Christine for fear of reprisals said the definitions of the "crimes" in Article 23 are very broad, and anyone could be targeted regardless of nationality.

She cited the arrests of Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor in China on "espionage" charges as retaliation for the Vancouver arrest of Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou in 2018.

"We want to call on the international community to please help save Hong Kong, and to impose sanctions on Chinese Communist Party and Hong Kong officials because they have taken away freedom and democracy in Hong Kong," Christine told RFA.

'Last nail'

In Sydney, dozens of protesters sang "Glory to Hong Kong" and watched performance artist Pamela Leung stage a work titled "The Last Nail," depicting the Article 23 legislation as the "last nail" in the coffin of Hong Kong's rights and freedoms.

Protesters also carried placards pointing to more than 1,700 political prisoners since the first round of national security legislation was imposed on the city, and draped chains around the protest site.

"The chains are just a reference to political prisoners in Hong Kong -- they actually reach much further than that," a protester who gave only the name Ivan for fear of reprisals told RFA at the scene. "If governments don't move to prevent it, they will extend and trap the whole world."

In democratic Taiwan, former political prisoner Lee Ming-cheh told a rally organized by the Hong Kong Outlanders campaign group that if Taiwan didn't pay close attention to China's handling of Hong Kong, then its 23 million people could be next.

"China has never followed the law, doesn't abide by its own commitments, and has ignored international law, so China will consider Taiwan, which it has never ruled, its territory," Lee said.

"Taiwanese should stand in solidarity with Hong Kong. If there is no way to curb China's destruction of the rule of law in Hong Kong ... the next victim will definitely be Taiwan," said Lee, who served a five-year sentence for "subversion" in a Chinese jail.

Harder for journalists

Former CNN China correspondent Mike Chinoy said the National Security Law and the Article 23 legislation will make it harder for foreign journalists to work in the city.

"The National Security Law and Article 23 are going to make people reluctant to talk to journalists," Chinoy said, adding that the 2019 protest movement had likely "terrified" Chinese President Xi Jinping.

"There was always a lot of suspicion about Hong Kong because it was so Westernized and it was so separate," Chinoy said in a recent interview with RFA.

"My sense is that they saw in Hong Kong a rebellious peripheral area heavily influenced by foreigners that was challenging the central government, and I think that must have absolutely terrified them."

In a March 19 statement, former colonial governor Chris Patten said the law was "another large nail in the coffin of human rights and the rule of law in Hong Kong."

"Governments and parliaments around the world will take note and so will international investors," he said.

Chris Smith, chairman of the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China warned on March 22 that the new law could target employees of U.S. companies in Hong Kong and called on the business community to carefully assess the risks posed by the legislation.

Meanwhile, 88 parliamentarians from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, EU and other countries said the law was a "flagrant breach" of China's obligations under the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, a U.N.-registered treaty governing the handover of Hong Kong to China.

Benedict Rogers, CEO of the London-based rights group Hong Kong Watch, said the Article 23 legislation was a "death knell" for Hong Kong's remaining freedoms.

"We urge the international community to address the new threats posed by Article 23 legislation by imposing targeted sanctions, broadening lifeboat schemes for Hong Kongers, ensuring that the law is not applicable overseas and used for transnational repression," Rogers said, calling for a review of Hong Kong's special status, including the city's separate Trade and Economic Offices in foreign countries.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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China Proposes Dialogue With Australia Amid Rising Tension in South China Sea

By William Yang March 25, 2024

China said it may propose talks on maritime issues with Australia amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.

Following Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's trip to Australia last week a during which he exchanged views on trade, consular affairs, and regional security with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong a the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on March 21 that Beijing is actively considering "launching a dialogue on maritime affairs" with Australia.

In response to Beijing's proposal, Australia's Foreign Affairs and Trade Department told VOA in a written response that Wang and Wong exchanged views on maritime safety and security during their meeting on March 20, adding that Canberra will "consider the most practical and useful format for dialogue on maritime issues."

The announcement comes amid efforts from Beijing and Canberra to improve bilateral relations after China imposed sanctions worth $12.7 billion on Australian products, most of which have been lifted in recent months.

While China and Australia have agreed on stabilizing trade relations, regional security remains a sensitive issue between the two countries. Following her meeting with Wang, Australia's Wong told journalists that she reiterated Canberra's "serious concern" about unsafe conduct at sea.

"I reflected the view of our region as outlined again and underscored again at the recent ASEAN summit about the importance of the South China Sea being governed by international law, particularly UNCLOS [the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea]," she said during a press conference on March 20.

Some analysts say Australia and China could both benefit from a bilateral dialogue over maritime issues. While Australia needs to avoid being viewed as endorsing China's approach in the South China Sea, "the way to work on de-escalating incidents in the maritime domain is to have open communication," Jennifer Parker, an expert associate at the Australian National University, told VOA by phone.

Other experts say Australia should handle Beijing's proposal with caution.

"Beijing's motive is to include the maritime affairs dialogue on the bilateral track with Canberra, and China is likely hoping to move Australian public discussion of the South China Sea and other maritime issues as far as possible," Euan Graham, a senior analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, told VOA by phone.

Since the Albanese administration has been "heavily invested" in improving ties with China, Graham thinks Canberra will "find it hard to decline" Beijing's proposal.

Instead of keeping the dialogue in a bilateral format, some analysts say Australia will try to "multi-lateralize" the format and involve other countries.

"Once [Australia] multi-lateralizes the format, they move [the dialogue] away from the asymmetry that's inherent in the Australia-China relationship, and they create more breaks on what the Chinese can do," Stephen Nagy, a regional security expert at the International Christian University in Japan, told VOA by phone.

Despite China's willingness to discuss maritime issues with Australia, Graham said it's unlikely Beijing will change its posture in the South China Sea, where Chinese coast guard vessels have repeatedly engaged in confrontation with Philippine vessels.

"Beijing is not going to change its positions [in the South China Sea] because it has been trying to get broader regional acceptance of its version of the law of the sea and maritime claims," he told VOA.

Parker said that a maritime affairs dialogue between China and Australia could at least help de-escalate regional tensions. "I think a dialogue between Australia and China on maritime affairs may assist in a mechanism to de-escalate incidents once they occur," she told VOA.

Rising tension

Tension flared up again between Beijing and Manila in the South China Sea over the weekend. The Philippine government said Chinese coast guard ships sprayed a Philippine vessel conducting a resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal with water cannons on Saturday.

The incident is the latest episode in the ongoing confrontation between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the region. Beijing has urged Manila to "stop its infringement and confrontation" in the disputed waters, while the Philippine government vowed to exercise its legal rights over its maritime zones.

In response to the heightened tensions, Australia has strengthened partnerships with Southeast Asian countries in recent months, conducting patrols with the Philippines in the region last year and upgrading bilateral relations with Vietnam earlier this month.

As Beijing maintains its aggressive posture in the South China Sea, some experts say it will be difficult for China to convince Australia to change its stance on regional maritime security issues.

"Beijing has increased its aggression and that's not going to make it easy for Australia to take a neutral stance," Ray Powell, director of Stanford University's Gordian Knot Center, told VOA by phone.

While Australia doesn't have enough capacity to independently influence the South China Sea dynamics, Graham said Canberra could be "an effective balancer" in the region.

"Australia can shift the dial over the long-term struggle with Beijing by developing a sophisticated division of labor with other countries in the region, including the U.S., Japan, India, and Southeast Asian countries that are willing to work with Canberra," he told VOA.

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Light to moderate rain in the Bay Area, and moderate snow in the Sierra Nevada, is expected Wednesday evening. Baron/Lynx

UPDATED FORECAST: Heres which California ski resorts could get the most snow from a late March storm

It may be late March, but winter isnt letting go in California.

At least a chance of rain is in the forecast for each of the next five days thanks to a series of wet weather systems approaching the state. First, a cold front will move across Northern California on Wednesday, reaching the Bay Area in the late afternoon and evening. Isolated showers are expected Thursday before a strong low-pressure system moves close to Central California on Friday.

Live storm map: See where rain is hitting California and Bay Area

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Both systems combined could drop more than an inch of rain in San Francisco and Oakland, with 2 to 3 inches possible in the highest elevations of the Bay Area.

Wednesdays cold front

A cold front is expected to swing across Northern California on Wednesday, weakening as it approaches the Bay Area in the evening. Steady rain is anticipated by midday along the North Coast, totaling up to an inch by midnight. Shower chances will increase throughout the day in the Bay Area, but moderate steady rain isnt expected to arrive until during or after the evening commute. A quarter- to half-inch of rain could fall in San Francisco and Oakland, with more in the highest peaks and less in the Tri- and Santa Clara valleys.

The Weather Prediction Center forecasts about a quarter- to half-inch of rain in the Bay Area from Wednesday through early Thursday morning. Baron/Lynx

Southerly winds will increase Wednesday afternoon, gusting up to 35 mph at the coast and 25 mph inland. Isolated rain showers and occasional westerly gusts may continue Thursday, with the best chance north of the Golden Gate.

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In the Northern and Central Sierra Nevada, a winter storm warning is in effect from 11 a.m. Wednesday through 11 a.m. Thursday. Up to 1.5 feet of snow is possible above 6,000 feet, including Interstate 80 at Donner Summit and Highway 50 at Echo Summit, with 2 or more feet at the highest peaks. Gusts of 20 to 40 mph are expected, stronger at ridge tops. The heaviest snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour will be late Wednesday evening into Thursday morning.

Friday-Saturday storm

On Friday afternoon, a strong late March storm is expected to move toward the Central California coast. The close proximity of the low-pressure system will promote southeast gusts of 35 to 45 mph at the coast. Rain chances will increase throughout the Bay Area during the day Friday, with downpours and occasional thunderstorms possible by the evening and continuing through Saturday.

A strong low-pressure system is expected to move toward the California coast on Friday, with gusts of 35 to 45 mph possible at the coast. Baron/Lynx

Up to an inch of rain is possible in San Francisco and Oakland from this storm, but exact rainfall amounts depend on the track of the nearby low-pressure system. In the Los Angeles metro area, 1 to 3 inches of rain is predicted, with up to 6 inches in the mountains. Forecast details will emerge as the storm gets closer.

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The Central and Southern Sierra Nevada is expected to take the brunt of the precipitation Saturday, with 1 to 2 feet of snow possible above 5,000 feet. Up to a foot of snow is predicted in the Northern Sierra.

Wednesday breakdown

San Francisco: Mostly cloudy skies will prevail in the morning, with a slight chance of drizzle west of Twin Peaks. Rain chances will increase as a cold front approaches in the late afternoon. Gusts of 20 to 30 mph are possible as the front passes in the evening, along with briefly heavy rain. Showers will continue overnight with a quarter- to half-inch of rain expected. Highs will reach the lower 60s, and lows will be around 50.

North Bay: Periods of light rain showers are possible throughout the morning, with the highest chances in Sonoma and Marin counties. Steady rain is expected to sweep through the North Bay in the late afternoon and evening.

Less than a quarter-inch of rain is expected in Solano County, with around a half-inch of rain in Santa Rosa. Rainfall in Napa, San Rafael and Petaluma will land somewhere in between. South-southwest gusts up to 25 mph are expected in the afternoon and early evening. Highs will be in the upper 50s to lower 60s, and lows will be in the 40s.

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East Bay: Clouds will build over the Berkeley and Oakland hills in the afternoon and could produce light showers, but the best chance of rain will be from 7 p.m. to midnight.

Around a quarter- to a third of an inch of rain is expected in Oakland, Berkeley, Hayward and Fremont, with a tenth to a quarter-inch predicted in the Tri-Valley and Walnut Creek. Gusts of 20 to 30 mph are possible along the bay shoreline and up to 25 mph in the valleys. Highs will be in the lower 50s with lows in the mid- to upper 40s.

Pacific Coast and Peninsula: The sun may poke out between the clouds and drizzle in the morning, but overcast skies are expected by the afternoon. Rain chances will slowly increase through the afternoon as a cold front approaches.

Steady moderate rainfall is expected in the evening through around midnight. About a quarter-inch of rain is expected, with potential for slightly more at the coast. Highs will be in the upper 50s in Daly City and Half Moon Bay, and the lower 60s in San Mateo and Redwood City. Lows will be in the upper 40s to lower 50s.

South Bay and Santa Cruz: Dry conditions should prevail in the South Bay and Santa Cruz for most of the day. A few light showers are possible in the Santa Cruz Mountains in the afternoon, but the best chance of rain will come after dark.

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China's 'military fans' could run afoul of national security laws

The ministry of state security says reporting on military details could land nationalistic influencers in prison.

By Qian Lang for RFA Mandarin 2024.03.26 -- China's Ministry of State Security has warned the country's social media influencers, particularly military enthusiasts and former state employees with access to confidential information, that they are at risk of breaching national security laws in their bid to attract fans.

"With the rise of self-media, a casual video or comment can attract a lot of attention online, and anyone can become an online celebrity," the ministry said in a post on Tuesday to its official WeChat account.

"Knowledge-sharing and outdoor check-in accounts are very popular ... but they need to improve their awareness of national security," the post warned.

The growth of amateur military enthusiasts has come amid a rise in popularity for nationalistic commentators who like to brag about China's military might online, particularly with regard to a potential invasion of democratic Taiwan.

"Military fan" content has proliferated behind the Great Firewall of internet censorship in recent years, as it is often produced by "little pink" creators of nationalistic content, which drives large amounts of traffic on Chinese social media.

Some like to report on the latest high-tech weaponry and equipment being deployed by the People's Liberation Army, analyze the strengths of its command regions and theaters, or engage in military plane-spotting, including aircraft identifying marks, according to state media reports.

Meanwhile, on YouTube, short videos have also appeared in large numbers on channels like China Defense and Military Tube and CCTV's China Military, using official state media footage and sometimes an AI voice-over and subtitles in English that appear aimed at an overseas audience.

But official warnings are growing that some influencers appear to be going too far, amid a nationwide crackdown on the flow of information under ruling Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping.

The latest Ministry of State Security post follows a warning from the Ministry in December that any military fans reporting details of construction projects, technical specifications or the deployment of new military equipment could be prosecuted, with prison sentences of 3-7 years for the most serious offenders.

In January, a People's Liberation Army-affiliated media organization Jun Zhengping Studio complained publicly after a blogger shared tips on how to sneak into a restricted military zone on the Xiaohongshu social media platform.

The post was illustrated with a photo of a young woman scaling a chain-link fence at a restricted facility near the central city of Wuhan, close to a big red sign that reads "No Entry. Restricted Military Area."

The Ministry's post on Tuesday said former civil servants, defense officials and scientific researchers have used their insider knowledge to drive traffic to their accounts, taking advantage of public curiosity about secret matters, even before the statute of limitations on that knowledge has expired.

"Anyone striving to become an internet celebrity must always pay attention to their words and deeds, and never leak national secrets or endanger national security," the account warned, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

It singled out "outdoor enthusiasts" who like to check in at restricted areas "as a gimmick to attract attention," and who take photos around military restricted zones regardless of warning notices.

"Illegal actions like breaking into military restricted areas in order to attract fans seriously disrupts the orderly management of important military areas, and may even provide an opportunity for overseas spies and intelligence agencies to spy on and analyze our military deployment, endangering national security," the report said, citing the ministry.

"Areas under military management and classified sensitive areas are not tourist attractions," it said, calling on social media platforms to weed out content of this kind.

Under Chinese law, the country's citizens are obliged to protect military facilities, the post warned.

"Any behavior that disrupts the orderly management of military restricted areas or threatens safety at military facilities will be severely punished by law," the Ministry warned.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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China steps up checks for people bypassing the 'Great Firewall'

Police are stopping people in public and checking their phones for apps used to get around censorship.

By Qian Lang for RFA Mandarin 2024.03.26 -- Police in China are stepping up spot searches of people's phones for apps enabling them to bypass the Great Firewall of government internet censorship, residents told Radio Free Asia in recent interviews.

A resident of the southwestern province of Sichuan who gave only the surname Huang for fear of reprisals said he had recently been stopped on the subway in the provincial capital, Chengdu.

"This happened to me in Chengdu," Huang said. "A police officer stopped me on the subway and wanted to check my phone, but I didn't allow him to."

"I told him he had no law enforcement powers and he let it go," he said.

Chinese authorities have stepped up spot checking operations on the streets and on public transport in the years since the "white paper" protest movement of 2022, which the government blamed on infiltration by "foreign forces," and have been forcing people to download an "anti-fraud" app that monitors their phone usage, according to recent interviews.

Huang said he has also seen police checking people's phones on the streets of Shanghai and Beijing.

A resident of the northeastern province of Jilin who gave only the surname Zhang for fear of reprisals said police have been stepping up similar checks where he lives.

"You have to be very clandestine to get around the Great Firewall," Zhang said. "Circumvention tools and viewing overseas websites are not allowed."

"Generally speaking, nobody dares to post photos that have come from outside the Great Firewall to WeChat," he said. "If you do, your account will be blocked."

He said anyone who gets hauled in to "drink tea" with the feared state security police will have their phone checked as a matter of routine, meaning that people need to delete such software or reset to factory settings to avoid discovery.

He said that while some uncensored content occasionally gets through, there isn't as much as before the current crackdown.

According to Huang, the current crackdown was sparked by the "white paper" protests, after which the authorities have targeted university students to crack down on people going "over the wall" to get content that hasn't been censored by the ruling Chinese Communist Party.

'You have to be especially careful'

A mobile phone repair specialist in the southern province of Guangdong who declined to be named for fear of reprisals said the police-approved "anti-fraud" app can also detect the presence of circumvention tools on any phone where it has been installed.

"As long as your phone has the anti-fraud app installed, they will know what you are doing," she said.

"You have to be especially careful now if you want to get around the Wall."

A screenshot provided by a resident of the central province of Hubei showed an SMS alert from the provincial police department warning them that circumvention software had been detected on their phone, in violation of the Online Security Law.

The user was ordered to cease and desist or report to the local police station, on pain of further "enforcement measures," according to the text message.

According to the X citizen journalist account "Mr Li is not your teacher," a student at the School of Electronic Information and Computer Engineering at Sichuan's Institute of Industrial Technology was recently disciplined for "ignoring online security regulations" and using software to bypass the Great Firewall on many occasions between Feb. 29 and March 11, according to a photo of the school's disciplinary announcement.

They had accessed content on overseas websites and reposted it to two WeChat groups, which "violates the school's student regulations," the notice said.

The student was given a warning under the college's disciplinary code, it said.

Last month, China's state security police started combing through the account's follower list and putting pressure on people living in China to unfollow it, the journalist reported.

China's Cyberspace Administration has also been stepping up its campaign to remove unapproved content from Chinese social media platforms, reporting that it revoked the licenses of more than 10,000 websites in 2023, and hauled in more than 10,000 "for interviews."

The websites were being targeted for "spreading false information, incitement of confrontation and other harmful content," state news agency Xinhua reported on Jan. 31.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Japan proposes Kishida, Kim summit: North Korean leader's sister

Kim Yo Jong's remarks came a month after she said North Korea was open to enhancing ties with Tokyo.

By RFA Staff 2024.03.25 -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, said on Monday that Pyongyang has received a summit proposal from Japan. Her comments came a month after she said the hermit state was open to enhancing its ties with Tokyo.

However, Kim said that improving bilateral relations between the two countries will depend on whether Japan can make practical political decisions.

"Recently, Prime Minister [Fumio] Kishida conveyed to us through another channel his desire to meet directly with the chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea at the earliest possible time," Kim Yo Jong said, cited by the North's state-run Korean Central News Agency.

Kim Jong Un is chairman or president of the State Affairs Commission. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea is the North's official name.

"As I have said before, it is Japan's actual political determination that is crucial to opening a new avenue for improving bilateral relations," Kim's powerful sister said, adding that "mere willingness to engage in head-to-head talks is not enough to resolve the mistrust and misunderstanding between our two countries."

"If Japan continues to interfere in the exercise of our sovereign rights, as it is doing now, and continues to focus on the abduction issue, which it has no ability to resolve or even understand, the Prime Minister's initiatives will inevitably be viewed as little more than popularity stunts."

Kim Yo Jong's remarks came about a month after she said North Korea was open to enhancing its ties with Japan, even suggesting the possibility of inviting the Japanese prime minister to Pyongyang.

At that time, however, Kim Yo Jong stressed that the visit "might come" if Japan "drops its bad habit," calling the abduction issue "already settled."

Abduction obstacle

The issue of abductions remains a significant obstacle to diplomatic normalization between North Korea and Japan.

Tokyo claims it has confirmed the abductions of 17 Japanese citizens by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s for language education for North Korean spies, and 12 are still in the North.

Pyongyang contends that of the 12, eight have already died, and four never entered North Korea, asserting that there is no issue to be resolved.

In February, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said claims that the abduction issue has already been resolved were "completely unacceptable."

He noted that "Japan has not changed its policy of comprehensively resolving issues such as abduction and nuclear and missile programs on the basis of the Japan-North Korea Pyongyang Declaration."

The declaration was signed in 2002 after former Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi visited Pyongyang.

It contained four sections: promoting talks on normalization of diplomatic relations, compensation based on reflection on past history, preventing the recurrence of "regrettable issues," such as abductions, and establishing cooperation to resolve nuclear and missile issues.

Summit unlikely

During a parliamentary committee meeting on Monday afternoon, Prime Minister Kishida said that a summit would be important to resolve many pending issues between the two countries, including the abductee issue.

A South Korean foreign ministry official said that Seoul is "closely communicating with Japan" regarding the North's purported proposal, stressing that Seoul, Washington and Tokyo are in "close coordination" to bring Pyongyang back to the path toward denuclearization.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State told RFA that Washington has been "very clear" about the importance of diplomacy with North Korea, and suggested contacting the Japanese government for inquiries about a potential summit between Tokyo and Pyongyang.

The abductee issue remains an important topic to Japanese citizens, and the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was more devoted to the issue Bruce Klingner, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institute said. But now the responsibility is Kishida's.

"While some conjecture that Kishida is striving for a North Korean summit to improve his sagging popularity polls, it seems unlikely that a meeting would have much of a positive effect nor is a breakthrough likely," said Klingner. "While resumption of any dialogue with Pyongyang would be beneficial to discuss ways to reduce ongoing tensions, Kishida runs the risk of looking too desperate for a meeting."

Japanese intelligence officials have proposed dialogue with North Korea several times in the past, and North Korea does not expect that a summit will come under the Kishida administration because it has a low approval rating, Yoshihiro Makino of Hiroshima University told RFA on Monday.

The efforts by Pyongyang to engage in dialogue with Tokyo are an attempt to undermine cooperation between the U.S., South Korea, and Japan, he said, adding that until the abductee issue can be resolved to Japan's satisfaction, a summit is unlikely.

Edited by Mike Firn.

Update adds reactions from diplomats and experts.

Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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As part of overseas deployment to ASEAN countries, ICG Ship Samudra Paheredar arrives at Manila Bay, Philippines

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Posted On: 26 MAR 2024 9:11AM by PIB Delhi

Indian Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar, a specialized Pollution Control Vessel, arrived at Manila Bay, Philippines on 25 March 2024 on a three-day visit. The visit of specialized Pollution Control Vessels is part of a broader initiative aimed at demonstration of ICG Marine Pollution Response capabilities and shared concern & resolve towards Marine Pollution in the ASEAN region, besides bolstering bilateral cooperation with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). The ICG ship is on an overseas deployment to ASEAN countries namely the Philippines, Vietnam, and Brunei from 25 March to 12 April 2024. The deployment is the third in a row by the Indian Coast Guard to ASEAN countries. Earlier in the year 2023, ICG Pollution Control Vessels visited Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia as part of the initiative.

During this deployment, the ship is scheduled to make port calls in Manila (Philippines), Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam), and Muara (Brunei). The ship is equipped with specialized marine pollution control equipment and a Chetak Helicopter in Pollution Response configuration, designed to contain, and recover spilled oil and augment the operation. The demonstration at visiting ports includes Pollution Response training and a practical display of various equipment.

Additionally, the ship has also embarked 25 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets to participate in the Government's initiative "Puneet Sagar Abhiyan," and provide it an international outreach in coordination with partner nations. As part of an overseas exchange program, the NCC cadets, in coordination with ICG ship crew, Partner agencies personnel, Indian Embassy/ Mission staff, and local youth organizations will undertake beach cleanup and similar activities during the port call of the ship.

This visit holds significant importance in strengthening bilateral relationships with key maritime agencies, including the Philippine Coast Guard, Vietnam Coast Guard, and Brunei Maritime agencies. ICG has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) towards Enhanced Maritime Cooperation and Maritime Safety and Security with the Coast Guards of the Philippines and Vietnam. These relationships have evolved over the years to ensure the safety, security, and marine environment concerns in the region. The visit's agenda includes professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, joint exercises, as well as official and social engagements including visits to capacity-building facilities.

About ICGS Samudra Paheredar:

ICGS Samudra Paheredar, stationed on the East Coast of India in Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, is under the Command of Deputy Inspector General Sudhir Ravindran. Over the years, Samudra Paheredar has successfully undertaken various Coast Guard operations, including Pollution Response, IMBL/EEZ surveillance, counter-transnational crimes, and Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR).

****

ABB/Anand



(Release ID: 2016346)

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Iran Mulls Financial Penalties For Hijab Rule Violations

By RFE/RL's Radio Farda March 25, 2024

An Iranian lawmaker says authorities are discussing introducing financial penalties for the violation of the mandatory hijab rule as a way to depart from physical coercion or criminal action against perceived perpetrators amid growing discontent among Iranians following a wave of repression against protests prompted by the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody in 2022.

Amirhossein Bankipour told state TV on March 24 that a consensus on such a step had been reached among key governmental and security bodies.

Bakinpour said the move comes after assessments found that morality police patrols and criminal proceedings have not proven effective and triggered protests. The ruling bodies, including the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution and the Supreme National Security Council, have found fines a less confrontational means of enforcing the dress code, he said.

Bankipour last month hinted at a forthcoming bill dubbed Hijab and Chastity that would fine violators 30 million Iranian rials ($50), directly debiting the fines from their bank accounts, with additional penalties for repeat offenses.

However, a police spokesman said no official notification has been received about the fines so far.

The envisaged legislation empowers three intelligence agencies -- the Intelligence Ministry, the Revolutionary Guards Intelligence Organization, and the Intelligence Organization of the Judiciary -- along with the police and the Basij paramilitary forces to take action against women who break the rules.

The hijab became compulsory for women and girls above the age of 9 in 1981, two years after the Islamic Revolution. The move triggered protests that were swiftly crushed by the new authorities. Many women have flouted the rule over the years and pushed the boundaries of what officials say is acceptable clothing.

Amini's death in September 2022 following her arrest over allegedly wearing the hijab improperly sparked a wave of anger that has presented the Islamic regime with one of the biggest challenges since the 1979 revolution.

The Women, Life, Freedom protests and civil disobedience against the compulsory hijab that have swept the country involved tens of thousands of Iranians, many of whom were already upset over the country's deteriorating living standards. Campaigns were also launched against the discriminatory law.

In the face of the unrest, some religious and government figures have repeatedly advocated for a tougher stance by the government against offenders, even going as far as encouraging a "fire-at-will" approach against noncompliant women.

The UN Human Rights Council's fact-finding committee has categorized such actions against women as a crime against humanity.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-mulls-financial- penalties-for-hijab-rule-violations/32876693.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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March 26, 2024

Release

Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Meeting With Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

Today, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III welcomed Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant to the Pentagon for his first visit to Washington in his current role. This visit is occurring after nearly six months of close cooperation between the two leaders following Hamas' October 7 terrorist attack and is a testament to the United States' unwavering support for Israel's long-term security. The Secretary and Minister affirmed their shared interest in defeating Hamas.

Secretary Austin and Minister Gallant discussed the importance of prioritizing civilian protection in the event of military operations in Rafah, the dire humanitarian situation across Gaza, and threats to regional security. The Secretary stressed that the United States and Israel have a moral imperative and a shared strategic interest in safeguarding civilians, noting that operations in Rafah should not proceed without a credible and implementable plan that ensures the safety of and humanitarian support for civilians sheltering there.

The Secretary urged the Minister to expand entry points for humanitarian assistance and address distribution challenges inside of Gaza. The Secretary emphasized that the U.S. government's plan to establish a temporary maritime corridor to provide lifesaving humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza is one part of a sustained international effort to deliver more aid and must be matched by increased delivery of assistance by ground.

The Secretary and the Minister reaffirmed the urgent need to secure the release of all hostages held captive by Hamas in Gaza. Secretary Austin reiterated his support for a diplomatic solution to resolve tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border that will allow Israeli civilians to return to their homes in northern Israel as quickly and safely as possible. The Secretary made clear that the United States remained committed to deterring any regional actors from exploiting or expanding the conflict beyond Gaza.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3719161/

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March 26, 2024

Transcript

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Remarks Welcoming Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant to the Pentagon

SECRETARY OF DEFENSE LLOYD J. AUSTIN III: Minister Gallant, welcome back to the Pentagon.

You know, I've been to Israel twice since that awful day of October 7th, including just six days after Hamas assaulted your country. And we've spoken by phone nearly 40 times. And it's good to be with you in person again. So welcome.

Now, it's been nearly six months since the Hamas atrocities of October 7th, the worst day in Israel's history. No country should endure such terror, and no country would tolerate such danger.

So President Biden has been clear: Israel has a right to defend itself, like any other state. So we're working with Israel to ensure that an outrage like October 7th can never happen again. And the United States will not rest until all the hostages are home.

Our goal is to make Israel and the region safer and more secure. And as I have consistently said, protecting Palestinian civilians from harm is both a moral necessity and a strategic imperative.

In Gaza today, the number of civilian casualties is far too high, and the amount of humanitarian aid is far too low.

Gaza is suffering a humanitarian catastrophe, and the situation is getting even worse. And we need immediate increases in assistance to avert famine. Our work to open a temporary humanitarian corridor by sea will help, but the key is still expanding aid deliveries by land.

So Mr. Minister, I look forward to discussing how we can dramatically and urgently ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The safety of the 1.5 million Palestinian civilians in Rafah is also a top priority for the United States. Now, we continue to share the goal of seeing Hamas defeated, so we'll discuss alternative approaches to target Hamas elements.

And we must also plan for Israel's security after this conflict ends. And that includes working in renewed cooperation with the Palestinian Authority and our regional partners to stabilize Gaza and to move toward a two-state solution.

Yoav, your security bond is -- our security bond is unshakable. The United States is Israel's closest friend, and that won't change. And so I look forward to a good discussion today. And again, thanks for being here, Mr. Minister.

MINISTER OF DEFENSE YOAV GALLANT: My friend Secretary Austin, General Brown, Ambassador Lew, dear friends, it is my honor to be here in the United States. Thank you for hosting us.

Over the past six months we have been fighting a war against a brutal terrorist organization, Hamas, which is the ISIS of Gaza. We also face attacks from seven different fronts, all of them by your, while I sit here in the Pentagon, Hamas leader Haniyeh is meeting with Iranian leadership. The picture is clear as well.

Today, we will discuss developments in Gaza and the means to achieve our goals: the destruction of Hamas organization and bringing back the Israeli hostages back home. The negotiation on the hostages issue and Hamas positions require us to join hands in the a in our military and diplomatic efforts, and to increase pressure on Hamas. I will also raise the growing threats on our northern border, and our commitment to returning displaced communities to their homes.

We will also discuss strategic issues and the important cooperation between our establishment, which will ensure Israel's military edge and capabilities.

Mr. Secretary, once again, I would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation to your personal commitment and to your personal leadership, and for your friendship to Israel and to me personally. Thank you very much.

SEC. AUSTIN: Mr. Minister, it's a delight to have you here, and again, thanks for coming, and we look forward to a great discussion.

Thanks, everybody.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3718780/

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March 25, 2024

Release

Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Meeting With National Security Advisor Akiba Takeo of Japan

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III hosted National Security Advisor Akiba Takeo of Japan at the Pentagon today to discuss deepening cooperation between the United States and Japan.

Ahead of Prime Minister Kishida's Official Visit to the United States on April 10, the two officials highlighted areas for further Alliance momentum in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3718119/

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Myanmar's junta leader says nationwide elections may not be possible

Peace and stability are still needed in order for any poll to take place, he told Russian media.

By RFA Burmese 2024.03.25 -- Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing says Myanmar will hold elections for the first time since the military seized power in 2021 if the junta can bring peace and stability to the country, Russian media reported.

But in an interview with the ITAR-TASS news agency, republished by pro-junta media, Min Aung Hlaing admitted that nationwide elections may not be possible, presumably due to the intensifying civil war.

"If the State is peaceful and stable, we have a plan to hold the election in relevant sections as much as we can even if the election is not held nationwide under the law," Min Aung Hlaing said during the interview in Yangon on March 18.

Myanmar's military overthrew the civilian-led government in a February 2021 coup d'etat, on the pretext of voter fraud and incorrect voter registration lists in the November 2020 elections. That vote was swept by the National League for Democracy party, led by Aung Sang Suu Kyi, whom the junta has since imprisoned.

The coup has sparked a civil war as ordinary citizens have taken up arms to fight the junta, forming guerilla bands of People's Defense Forces, or PDF.

They have been joined by ethnic armies in the northern and western parts of the country that have inflicted a series of battlefield defeats on the military since late last year.

Deteriorating security

The military has said it plans to hold elections, but has failed to do so amid deteriorating security across the country.

In the interview with ITAR-TASS, Min Aung Hlaing said "we have an ultimatum aim to hold a free and fair election," but said that may be possible only in "relevant sections" and not across the country, implying that nationwide elections may not be possible for the foreseeable future.

On Feb. 1, the junta extended a state of emergency for another six months, but achieving the peace and stability needed to end it appears to be a distant goal following intensified fighting.

Calling themselves the "Three Brotherhood Alliance," three ethnic armies in the northern and western parts of the country launched a campaign against the military on Oct. 27 dubbed "Operation 1027," which was followed by a similar campaign the following month by a Karenni rebel group.

They have overrun dozens of military camps and made significant territorial gains, leading the the surrender of hundreds of junta soldiers, which has put the military on its heels.

Myanmar Democratic Party chairwoman Than Than Nu told Radio Free Asia that even holding an election in more peaceful parts of the country may be challenging.

"One thing that needs to be emphasized is the security situation in places where the election would be held," she said.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan, Mike Firn and Malcolm Foster.

Updates to add background and explanation about the 2020 election and rebel advances.

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 March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Thailand's first aid convoy arrives in Myanmar

The foreign ministry is sending aid to 20,000 residents of war-torn Kayin state.

By Kiana Duncan for RFA 2024.03.25 -- Thailand's government started aid deliveries to Myanmar on Monday along a newly developed humanitarian corridor to assist civilians affected by fighting.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with the Thai and Myanmar Red Cross Societies, sent aid in an eight-truck convoy across Mae Sot-Myawaddy Friendship Bridge No. 2.

Four thousand packages were delivered to three villages in Kayin state, namely Na Bu in Kawkareik district, and Thar Ma Nya and Paingkyon in Hpa-An district.

The aid will benefit around 20,000 people in towns selected in the pilot project for their acute need, according to Thai Vice Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow.

"We hope very much to see peace in Myanmar, internal issues certainly will be resolved by Myanmar themselves," Sihasak said at the aid ceremony in Mae Sot. "We want every side, all sides, to overcome their differences so that we can be led to reconciliation and peace in the near future."

Sihasak previously expressed hope that the aid initiative could help open the way for dialogue between the civilian National Unity Government, ethnic armed organizations and the junta, which seized power from the democratically elected government in a February 2021 coup d'Atat.

However, he declined to comment Monday on which groups controlled the territory to which aid would be delivered.

"I don't want to look at the issue as to which area is controlled by which side, let's talk about the people who are affected. If there is an area where there is a need, then we have to take a look." he said. "We are ready to work with everyone, as long as the focus is the people receiving the humanitarian aid."

Renewed fighting fuels need

Some non-junta stakeholders have criticized the limited scope of the assistance. However, a resurgence in fighting has increased the number of people in need of aid, whatever the amount.

After the anti-junta Karen National Liberation Army launched an assault on military camps in Myanmar's Myawaddy township on March 7, civilians were left displaced and in need of both food and medicine, according to a spokesperson for the Karen Department of Health and Welfare, declining to be named for security reasons.

As many as 30 people were critically injured during battles, and at least three have died from serious injuries in southern Myawaddy and Kawkareik townships. Nearly 3,000 new internally displaced people have been identified since March 7, but the number is likely higher, the spokesperson said.

She added that many of them are suffering from diarrhea and fever because they are drinking river water due to the heat.

Skirmishes and humanitarian issues are also increasingly affecting Thailand's border. Large numbers of migrants fleeing conscription laws enacted by the junta fled through Thai borders, the largest number being arrested in Tak province in February.

On Tuesday, 40 junta soldiers fled into Thailand's Umphang district, about 180 kilometers (112 miles) south of Mae Sot, according to the Karen Information Center. The week-long battle with the Karen National Liberation Army caused Thailand to close its border crossing near Paing Ka Hlaing village in Kayin state.

Engaging all parties?

Despite the foreign affairs ministry's claims to engage all parties, some stakeholders don't feel an adequate effort has been made.

Aid would be handed off to community leaders and the district authority in recipient villages, Sihasak said.

But the National Unity Government's Ministry of Humanitarian Assistance, along with ethnic armed groups, has drafted an alternative proposal that it said would make Thailand's aid delivery plan more effective. It proposed instead to work with local organizations to reach areas controlled by ethnic armed groups.

However, the National Unity Government - a shadow government formed by members of the civil administration ousted in the coup - says there has been no direct communication from Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs about the plan, proposed ahead of a seminar in Bangkok earlier this month on the situation in Myanmar.

"For effective delivery of such aid to the most needy people, close cooperation with EROs [ethnic resistance organizations] and NUG [National Unity Government] will be of paramount importance," said Win Myat Aye, the minister of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Management.

"Given Thailand's status as a pivotal neighboring country to Myanmar, coordinated and collaborative efforts with NUG and EROs are imperative to resolve the ongoing crisis through diplomatic channels."

Thai authorities have reached out to one or two ethnic armed groups, according to a source who asked to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the situation. He declined to name them.

The Karen National Union, running parts of Kayin state, declined to comment on whether Thailand had discussed the delivery with them.

Lalita Hanwong, a historian at Kasetsart University and advisor to the Thai government on national security issues, said the humanitarian corridor was a positive development.

"I believe that the security sector and the Thai government have thoroughly considered this matter," she told BenarNews. "What Thailand should do next is to initiate negotiations with minorities, especially those in areas bordering Thailand, to ensure sustainable assistance.

"Thailand's long-term plan should prepare for various scenarios that could arise with Myanmar, such as fragmentation into multiple groups like the Shan, Karen, and Mon."

Updated to include comment from a Thai government advisor.

BenarNews reporter Ruj Chuenban contributed to this story from Bangkok.

Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.

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 March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Fisher & Paykel Healthcare initiates voluntary limited recall of Airvo 2 and myAirvo 2 devices manufactured before 14 August 2017

Auckland, New Zealand, 27 March 2024  Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Limited (NZX: FPH ,ASX:FPH) has initiated a voluntary limited recall of batches of Airvo 2 and myAirvo 2 devices manufactured before 14 August 2017.

The voluntary limited recall relates to a speaker configuration issue that may result in distorted, intermittent or inaudible alarm sound levels. This does not affect the therapy delivered by the Airvo 2 or myAirvo 2 device and the devices will otherwise perform as intended. Beginning 14 August 2017, a new speaker configuration from a different supplier was implemented into the manufacturing of Airvo 2 and myAirvo 2 devices.

Airvo 2 and myAirvo 2 devices are used to deliver high flow therapy to patients. The Airvo 2 and myAirvo 2 devices are not intended for life support and appropriate patient monitoring is required at all times. If there is an interruption to therapy a patient may experience oxygen desaturation.

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare is consulting with the various international regulatory authorities to initiate appropriate action in each country. The company will also be contacting distributors, dealers and hospitals that may have products subject to this recall and will replace any affected devices. The company estimates there are approximately 9,000 of the affected devices remaining in use.

Customers who have questions about the limited recall or require further information may contact their local Fisher & Paykel Healthcare representative, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare regional sales office, or distributor.

At this time the company estimates the costs associated with this limited recall will be approximately $12 million which will be provisioned for in the companys financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024. When updated financial guidance was provided on 22 March 2024 the company did not anticipate or include this recall.

Changes to building depreciation deductions in New Zealand

The company also advises that the Taxation (Annual Rates for 2023-24, Multinational Tax, and Remedial Matters) Bill passed its third reading in New Zealand Parliament today. The bill removes depreciation deductions for commercial and industrial buildings that were reinstated by the previous government and will likely impact the companys tax expense for the 2024 financial year. The company is currently unable to quantify the financial impact of these changes.

About Fisher & Paykel Healthcare

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of products and systems for use in acute and chronic respiratory care, surgery and the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. The companys products are sold in over 120 countries worldwide. For more information about the company, visit our website www.fphcare.com.

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90 junta soldiers surrender to rebel army on Myanmar border

Since the Arakan Army announced the offensive, the group has killed 20 junta troops in a township bordering Bangladesh.

By RFA Burmese 2024.03.26 -- Ninety junta soldiers surrendered to an ethnic army on Monday in Myanmar, residents told Radio Free Asia.

The Arakan Army, one of the many ethnic groups opposing the military, launched an attack on a junta base in western Myanmar's Rakhine state. It is located in Maungdaw township, south of the Bangladesh border, civilians living in a nearby village said.

Since the Arakan Army ended a year-long ceasefire by launching an offensive on Nov. 13, 2023, the group has captured eight townships across Rakhine state and one neighboring township in northern Chin state. The group declared in early March they intend to fight for total control of Rakhine.

Junta troops have retaliated in territories lost to the Arakan Army with indiscriminate and deadly attacks on civilians, killing more than 70 in March alone.

Some of the more than 120 soldiers in Ah Shey Rakhine village's junta base managed to flee during the Monday capture, but the remaining about 90 troops surrendered around noon, according to a resident of nearby Ta Man Thar village.

"Thirty-five junta soldiers have fled, but the remaining troops in the camp surrendered in the afternoon when the Arakan Army asked them to surrender," he told RFA, asking to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals.

Rebel group spokesman Khaing Thu Kha did not respond to RFA's inquiries.

While the Arakan Army has not released any updated information on the Ah Shey offensive, a press release stated the armed group killed 20 junta soldiers attempting to flee from Ta Man Thar camp during an attack on Sunday.

Residents told RFA they have frequently fled the area since junta troops occupied the base in late November and began attacking nearby villages.

Arrest warrants for doctors

Also in Maungdaw township, residents told RFA that junta authorities have issued arrest warrants for two of the area's leading doctors who have defied a recent order to relocate to Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine state.

On March 1, the junta shut down the public hospital and several private clinics in the township amid recent intense fighting with the Arakan Army.

Doctors and other medical personnel were told to relocate to Sittwe, leaving residents without access to health care.

On Monday, junta authorities directed police to arrest the township's medical superintendent, Dr. Nu Kaythi San, and assistant doctor Dr. Aung Naing Lin to prevent their departure from the country.

They were alleged to have fled to an area controlled by the Arakan Army, residents said.

"As a resident, I feel sad," a Maungdaw resident familiar with the situation told RFA. "With these warrants in place, who would be willing to work at the hospital? If there are no health workers to serve, the health of the township's residents will be more of a concern."

Maungdaw's public hospital has remained shut since March 1, but most doctors and other health workers have refrained from relocating to Sittwe.

RFA's attempts to reach Hla Thein, the junta's spokesperson for Rakhine state, for comment on the arrest warrants were unsuccessful.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan, Mike Firn and Matt Reed.

Updates with material about arrest warrants for doctors at a public hospital in the region.

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 March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Pakistan Repulses Insurgent Attack on Southwestern Naval Air Base

By Ayaz Gul March 25, 2024

Pakistan officials said Monday that security forces killed at least four insurgents trying to infiltrate a naval air base in southwestern Baluchistan province.

A security official told VOA that the late-night insurgent attack in Turbat, a turbulent district in the sparsely populated province, was quickly intercepted and thwarted.

"The situation is under control. All the attackers have been neutralized," the Pakistani official told VOA, requesting anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to reporters. He said the clashes did not inflict any casualties on security forces.

The Baluch Liberation Army (BLA), an outlawed insurgent group, took responsibility for staging the assault. In a statement sent to reporters, the group said members of its so-called suicide unit, known as the Majeed Brigade, had carried out the raid and inflicted heavy casualties on Pakistani forces.

Designated as a global terrorist organization by Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the United States, BLA often releases inflated details about its violent campaigns.

The Pakistani province, rich in natural resources, has experienced a decadeslong insurgency spearheaded by BLA and other outlawed insurgent groups.

Last week, eight heavily armed BLA militants stormed a government compound in nearby Gwadar district, home to a China-operated port. The ensuing gunfight killed all the assailants and left several Pakistani security personnel dead.

The deep-water Gwadar port is located near the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil shipping route in the Arabian Sea. A Chinese state company built the port and runs it under a long-term agreement with the Pakistani government.

The port is central to the multibillion-dollar bilateral collaboration known as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC, an extension of Beijing's global infrastructure program, known as the Belt and Road Initiative.

Separatist Baluch insurgents have also attacked Chinese experts working on CPEC and other projects, killing several of them in recent years and prompting China to repeatedly call on Pakistan to enhance the security of its citizens.

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Terrorist Attack Against Chinese Nationals in Besham

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Five Chinese and one Pakistani national were killed today in a terrorist attack near Besham in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The Government of Pakistan strongly condemns this heinous act of terrorism. We will take all necessary measures to bring the terrorists and their facilitators to justice. Such dastardly acts cannot dent the resolve of Pakistani nation to fight against the scourge of terrorism.

Today's attack was orchestrated by the enemies of Pakistan-China friendship. We will resolutely act against all such forces and defeat them.

The people and government of Pakistan stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our Chinese friends in this difficult time and extend sincere condolences to the families of the Chinese nationals killed in the attack.

Pakistan and China are close friends and iron brothers. The life and safety of Chinese nationals in Pakistan is of paramount importance. Pakistan will continue to work with our Chinese brothers in ensuring the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects and institutions in Pakistan.

Islamabad

26 March 2024

54/2024

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Suicide Car Bombing Kills 5 Chinese Workers In Northwestern Pakistan

By RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal March 26, 2024

A suicide bomber drove an explosives-laden car into a bus carrying Chinese workers in Pakistan, killing at least five of them, along with their Paksitani driver, police said.

The bus plunged into a deep ravine off a mountainous highway after the bomber rammed his car into the bus and detonated his explosives, police said.

The March 26 attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province was the latest in a series targeting Chinese workers who are employed in major public infrastructure projects funded by the Chinese government. The projects have sparked resentment in some rural parts of the country, and militant groups have targeted foreign workers, seeking to undermine the construction projects.

The five Chinese who died were engineers at a key Chinese-funded hydropower project in Dasu, which is under construction by the China Gezhouba Group Company.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. The Pakistani Taliban, aka Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), said it was not involved.

In a previous attack on Chinese workers at the dam project in Dasu, a bomb placed on a bus carrying Chinese workers in July 2021 killed 13 people, including nine Chinese citizens, and injured 21 others.

Pakistani officials said that bus attack was planned by Muhammad Tariq Rafiq, the high-profile commander of the TTP who was also responsible for a number of terrorist attacks in Pakistan. Islamabad said Rafiq was killed in July 2023.

The suicide bombing on March 26 comes just days after security forces killed at least seven militants as they attempted to storm the offices of Gwadar Port in southwestern Pakistan. The port is one of the main hubs for Beijing's $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that funds infrastructure projects across the country. The CPEC is under Beijing's wider Belt and Road initiative.

In addition to attacks carried out by the TTP, the Baloch Liberation Army, a separatist militant group, has also targeted Chinese citizens living in Pakistan.

With reporting by AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/pakistan-chinese-workers- killed-pakhtunkhwa-suicide-attack/32878198.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Suicide Bombing Kills 5 Chinese Citizens in Pakistan

By Ayaz Gul March 26, 2024

Police in northern Pakistan said Tuesday that at least five Chinese nationals and their local driver were killed when a suicide bomber rammed his explosives-laden car into their convoy.

The attack occurred on the main highway linking Pakistan to China.

Beijing swiftly denounced what it called a terrorist attack and demanded Pakistani authorities bring the perpetrators to justice.

Local police officer Bakht Zahir told VOA an investigation into the "suicide blast" was underway.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for one of the deadliest attacks on Chinese nationals in recent years.

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the attack and conveyed his condolences to the victims' families and the government in neighboring China.

"Forces hostile to Pakistan will never succeed in damaging the Pakistan-China friendship," Zardari said.

The victims were traveling to the Chinese-funded Dasu hydropower project under construction in the district of Kohistan when the bomber coming from the opposite side hit them.

In a statement, the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad demanded that the Pakistani government immediately conduct a thorough investigation into the deadly bombing.

The diplomatic mission urged Pakistani authorities to "take practical and effective measures to protect the safety of Chinese citizens, institutions, and projects to prevent such incidents from happening again."

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited the Chinese Embassy to offer condolences over the death of Chinese nationals in the suicide attack, his office said.

This is not the first time Chinese nationals have come under attack in the mountainous region.

In mid-2021, a suicide car bombing targeted a bus convoy of Chinese engineers working on the biggest hydropower project in Pakistan, killing nine Chinese nationals and three of their local co-workers.

Thousands of Chinese engineers and laborers are working in Pakistan. Most of them are associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC, which is an extension of Beijing's global Belt and Road Initiative infrastructure program.

"Today's attack was orchestrated by the enemies of Pakistan-China friendship. We will resolutely act against all such forces and defeat them," the Pakistani foreign ministry said in a statement. "Pakistan will continue to work with our Chinese brothers in ensuring the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions in Pakistan."

Mushahid Hussain, the head of the Islamabad-based independent Pakistan-China Institute, described Tuesday's attack as a "monumental security breach." The former Pakistani senator criticized his government in comments posted on X, saying Islamabad's commitments to provide 'foolproof security' to Chinese workers "ring hollow" in the wake of repeated high-profile attacks on them.

Tuesday's attack came a day after separatist insurgents stormed Pakistan's second-largest naval aviation base in southwestern Baluchistan province. The military said that security forces killed all four assailants, and a Pakistani soldier died in the ensuing clashes.

The so-called Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), designated as a global terrorist organization by the United States, took responsibility for the attack.

Last week, eight heavily armed insurgents stormed a government compound in Baluchistan's Gwadar district, home to a China-operated port. The ensuing gunfight killed all the assailants and left several Pakistani security personnel dead. The BLA claimed its fighters carried out the raid.

The deep-water Gwadar port is located near the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil shipping route in the Arabian Sea. It is run by a Chinese state company and is a centerpiece of the multibillion-dollar bilateral CPEC collaboration.

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Meeting on measures being taken after the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall

The President held a videoconference meeting with the heads of the Government, regions, security services and law-enforcement agencies on measures being taken after the terrorist attack in the Crocus City Hall concert venue.

March 25, 2024

21:35

The Kremlin, Moscow

The meeting was attended by Prosecutor-General Igor Krasnov, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, First Deputy Chief of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko, Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova, Presidential Aide Maxim Oreshkin, Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev, Emergencies Minister Alexander Kurenkov, Minister of Labour and Social Protection Anton Kotyakov, Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Director of the Federal Security Service Alexander Bortnikov, Director of the Federal Service of National Guard Troops - Commander of the National Guard Troops Viktor Zolotov, Chairman of the Investigative Committee Alexander Bastrykin, Moscow Region Governor Andrei Vorobyov, and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues,

First of all, I would like to express again my deep condolences to the families and friends of those who perished in the inhuman terrorist attack of March 22, and wish a speedy recovery to the injured and wounded.

I would like to thank everyone who saved people and helped the injured in extremely difficult circumstances. In this difficult time, our society showed an example of true solidarity, unity, and mutual support.

I know that the victims' families are receiving words of sympathy from people of different ethnicities, from all regions of our country and of all ages, including children and students. Those who planned this terrorist attack hoped to sow panic and discord in our society but instead met with our unity and resolve to counter this evil.

I would like you to report today on the course of the investigation and search to identify all those who are involved in this terrorist attack and those who ordered and organised it.

Despite our overwhelming pain and grief, sympathy, and legitimate desire to punish all perpetrators of this inhuman atrocity, the investigation must proceed with the utmost professionalism and objectivity, with no political bias whatsoever.

We know that the crime was perpetrated by radical Islamists. The Islamic World itself has been fighting this ideology for centuries. But we are also seeing how the United States is using different channels to try and convince its satellites and other countries of the world that, according to its intelligence, there is supposedly no sign of Kiev's involvement in the Moscow terrorist attack, that the deadly terrorist attack was perpetrated by followers of Islam, members of ISIS, an organisation banned in Russia.

We know whose hands were used to commit this atrocity against Russia and its people. We want to know who ordered it.

We need to obtain answers to a number of questions in the course of joint work of our security services and law enforcement agencies.

For example, do radical and even terrorist Islamist organisations truly have an interest in launching attacks on Russia now that it supports a fair resolution of the escalated conflict in the Middle East? And how do radical Islamists, who present themselves as devout Muslims and follow the so-called pure Islam, justify committing atrocities and serious crimes during the holy month of Ramadan, which is sacred to all Muslims?

We will need to answer these and other, more specific and professional questions in order to carry out an objective investigation into the crime committed in Moscow. One thing is absolutely clear: the heinous crime committed in the Russian capital on March 22 is an act of intimidation, as I said.

This leads to the next question: who stands to benefit from it? This act of violence is likely just one in a series of attempts by those who have been fighting against our country since 2014, using the neo-Nazi Kiev regime as a pawn. As for the neo-Nazis, it is widely known that they have never hesitated to employ the most repugnant and inhumane methods to achieve their aims.

This becomes even more apparent today, as their much-touted counter-offensive has failed completely, as acknowledged by everyone and no longer disputed. The Russian Armed Forces are maintaining the initiative along the entire front line, while the enemy's efforts to stabilise the front have been unsuccessful.

Hence the attempts to infiltrate our border territories and establish a presence there, artillery attacks, including the use of multiple rocket launchers, on peaceful residential areas and civilian infrastructure facilities, such as power grids, and attempts to launch missiles at the Crimean Bridge and the Crimean Peninsula itself.

These bloody acts of intimidation, like the terrorist attack in Moscow, fit logically into this sequence. Their goal, as I mentioned, is to sow panic in our society while demonstrating to their own people that not all hope is lost for the Kiev regime.

All they need to do is follow the orders of their Western patrons, fight until the last Ukrainian, obey Washington's commands, endorse the new mobilisation law, and form something resembling a new version of the Hitler Youth. To comply with all of this, they will seek new weapons and additional funds, much of which will likely be embezzled and, as is customary in Ukraine today, put into their own pockets.

Incidentally, in the 1920s, the Ukrainian nationalists had an organisation called the Union of Ukrainian Nationalist Youth, which later merged with the Organisation of Ukrainian Nationalists.

Of course, we must also answer the question of why the terrorists, after committing their crime, attempted to flee specifically to Ukraine. Who was waiting for them there? It is clear that those supporting the Kiev regime do not wish to be implicated in acts of terrorism and be seen as sponsors of terrorism. But there are indeed numerous questions.

I would like to receive regular updates on the progress of the investigation.

Additionally, please provide information on the federal and regional measures taken to support the families of those killed and injured, as well as on how the work of the medical and social services has been organised. We have discussed these issues with our colleagues many times, but today we will go into more detail, as agreed.

Let's get to work. Over to you, Mr Bastrykin.

Chairman of the Investigative Committee Alexander Bastrykin: Mr President,

The Investigative Committee is continuing its active work to investigate the criminal case concerning the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall. The investigation has established the complete timeline of the events that occurred.

On March 22, at 6:54 pm, four criminals drove up in a Renault car to the Crocus City Hall concert hall, where they waited for the audience to arrive.

At 7:58 pm, the terrorists armed with automatic firearms opened fire on the visitors outside the Crocus City Hall building.

After entering the lobby and then the concert hall, they continued to shoot at everyone they saw, regardless of gender or age.

Using the gasoline they had brought with them in plastic bottles, they set fire to the premises and left the building at 8:11 pm. As they drove the car out of the parking lot, they ran over pedestrians - a family with two young children - at high speed. The children were seriously injured and taken to hospital.

All the attackers were detained in the Bryansk Region during a pursuit along the motorway leading towards the Russian-Ukrainian border.

Two AK-74 assault rifles, over 500 rounds of ammunition, 28 magazines with ammunition, and bottles with remaining gasoline were found and seized at the scene. The examination of the crime scene is ongoing, involving criminalists and experts from the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation.

Additionally, over 200 inspections, searches and seizures have been conducted, resulting in the seizure of over 1,000 various objects significant to the investigation.

During the search of the apartment where the accused lived, we found fragments of fabric and tools used in preparing the attack, along with their fingerprints.

A Makarov pistol without ammunition and a magazine from a Kalashnikov assault rifle with 30 rounds of ammunition were found in the criminals' car. We have scheduled 90 forensic examinations - ballistic, genetic and fingerprint examinations - on all the seized items, weapons, and ammunition.

Four perpetrators of the terrorist act have been charged and taken into custody. All the accused individuals pleaded guilty during interrogation and in court, providing detailed testimony about the circumstances of the crime, the instigators, and the individuals who aided in the preparation of the terrorist act.

The investigation also identified and detained three other people who assisted in the preparation of the terrorist attack: they provided accommodation in a flat, a car for transportation, and transported money. A motion has been filed with the court to place them in custody.

The initial results of the investigation indicate that the terrorist attack was carefully planned and prepared. As a result of the attack, 139 people died. Of those, 75 have been identified as of today. There are three children among the dead. The identification of the deceased continues.

Out of the total number of deceased, 137 people were killed at the scene of the terrorist attack, and two died in medical centres. Forty people died from gunshot wounds, two people died from a combination of gunshot and cut/stab wounds, and 45 people died as a result of the fire, from exposure to high temperature and combustion products. In addition, 182 people sustained wounds and injuries of varying severity.

We have commissioned and are conducting 160 forensic medical and genetic examinations to establish the cause of death and identify the victims. We have questioned 131 of crime victims and more than 500 witnesses. According to eyewitness testimony, the hall caught fire as a result of the actions of the accused, who spilled gasoline, which they brought with them, on chairs and walls and committed arson.

In this context, the investigation is examining the possibility of a breach of safety requirements and the fire extinguishing system in the Crocus City Hall concert hall. For this purpose, consoles, electronic units, and control devices of the fire-extinguishing system in the concert hall have been collected. They have been sent for analysis and to retrieve data on the mode of the fire safety system operation at the time of the terrorist attack. The contents of the fire protection system server are being examined by experts. A fire investigation has been launched to establish the operability and timeliness of response of all fire safety systems.

We are working in close contact with operational units of the Interior Ministry and the Federal Security Service of Russia. We are taking the necessary investigative measures to identify all those involved in the crime, including those who ordered and organised the attack. The investigation into the case is ongoing.

This concludes my report.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

Ms Golikova, please.

Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova: Mr President, colleagues,

Following the terrorist attack, 145 people were admitted to medical clinics and hospitals. Most of them suffered gunshot wounds, multisystem and combined injuries, or were intoxicated by products of combustion.

In total, 52 patients have been discharged after their condition improved, and they will be treated at their local outpatient clinics. A total of 93 people, including five children, continue to receive treatment. Doctors are working hard to save nine patients, including one child, who are in extremely critical condition; 29 patients remain in serious condition, another 30 patients are in a moderately grave condition, and the condition of 25 patients has improved, with doctors preparing to discharge them.

The most serious cases are currently being treated at Moscow-based and federal clinics. Local outpatient clinics have treated 150 patients to date, and I believe that this number may change as people who were able to return home are now contacting medical institutions.

Psychiatrists and psychologists from the Serbsky Institute, the Federal Medical-Biological Agency, the Russian Ministry for Civil Defence, Emergencies and Natural Disaster Relief, from Moscow and the Moscow Region and volunteer psychologists are helping to provide assistance to the crime victims and their families.

At the most critical moment, at least 50 ambulance units, teams of emergency medicine service of the Moscow Region, Moscow, and federal medical organisations were at the crime scene at the same time. In total, 203 ambulance and air medical service units were rendering assistance to the crime victims.

Considering the scale of the attack, we almost instantly allocated 1,500 beds at medical institutions in the Moscow Region, the city of Moscow, federal medical institutions of the Healthcare Ministry, the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the Federal Medical-Biological Agency, and the Defence Ministry. We also deployed intensive care, surgical, and burn care facilities. All teams reported to work and began treating patients.

Despite an abundant supply of blood and blood components, the citizens of Russia responded to the tragedy and arrived at donor centres to help the victims of the attack. According to the Federal Medical-Biological Agency, the country's donor centres received 11,822 donors and collected 4,624 litres of whole blood and 1,130 litres of plasma. These donor centres continue to function.

To support the families of those who were killed, perished, or were injured in the terrorist attack, the leadership of Moscow and the Moscow Region made a decision to provide lump-sum payments of three million rubles for every person killed or perished, one million rubles for every person treated or being treated at hospitals and clinics, and 500,000 rubles for those who have been treated at outpatient clinics.

The Moscow City Government is making payments to residents of Moscow and other regions, while the Moscow Region Government is making payments to residents of the region. The payments are currently underway and will continue as the documents are received

In addition, a working group has been created at the Social Fund and an emergency response headquarters was set up at the Federal Service for Labour and Employment (Rostrud) to provide assistance to the injured and the victims' families. As of today, 22 survivor pensions have been approved proactively without asking for documents to be provided, including 19 insurance pensions and three social pensions. The pensions will be paid as soon as we get banking details from the individuals concerned.

Outreach work is underway with the families and friends of the perished concerning the payment of burial allowances and further submission of additional documents for compensation. Similar work is underway with employers. Work has also been organised to assign payments under compulsory social insurance against industrial accidents.

Mr President, assistance will be provided to the injured and the victims' families as soon as their names are identified. We will keep this issue constantly under control.

I would also like to note that in the first hours after the terrorist attack, volunteers and concerned citizens joined the relief efforts. On March 23, the We are Together movement launched a fund-raiser effort to help the families of the perished and the people injured in the terrorist attack. I want to report that the amount of funds raised so far stands at almost one billion rubles.

As many as 11,371 volunteers are working at the spontaneous memorial sites and at the Help Centre. On the day of national mourning for the victims, March 24, and today, March 25, the regions held rallies calling for unity and demonstrating a sense of involvement in the events. A total of 257,500 volunteers and 1.6 million of our citizens took part in the rallies.

Russian businesses joined in as well. Over 42 transport companies, banks, mobile phone operators, restaurants, major retail outlets and other businesses helped as best as they could.

I would like to express my deep gratitude to our medical professionals for helping the injured, and to our concerned citizens for coming forward in this difficult hour and helping people in trouble, thus proving once again that our country is united, and we act as one in the face of the challenging circumstances.

Thank you.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

We discussed this tragedy during the early hours of March 23. Clearly, just like the first responders from different emergency services, we must be ready to deal with all kinds of situations. The fact, though, that passers-by and medical workers who are not part of the emergency services, as well as members of other services, showed up instantly in the place where they should be and helped the people in need of assistance demonstrates the maturity of our society and our people's readiness to stand up for their interests and to fight for themselves, for their loved ones, and for the people who need help and support. This is a very important feature of our society today. You are absolutely right.

We will come back to this.

I would now like to listen to what Mr Sobyanin has to say.

Please go ahead.

(In his report, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin discussed the medical and social assistance provided by the corresponding Moscow services to the people affected by the terrorist attack, as well as the targeted support provided to the victims' families who come to Moscow to identify bodies or search for their loved ones.)

Vladimir Putin: Now, I would like Mr Sobyanin and Mr Vorobyov [Moscow Region Governor], who will speak next, as well as all of our colleagues from the regions, to be mindful of the following. Mr Sobyanin mentioned the people who come to identify the bodies of their family members or visit their relatives who, thankfully, were not injured or were slightly injured and to take them home.

My point is that every member of the public who attended the concert and needs support must receive it, regardless of where they live, because some families have lost their primary breadwinners, among other things.

We need to analyse every detail of this terrifying crime and provide proper assistance to the people, not just tick the boxes. Please approach it professionally and act with compassion when supporting those in need.

Mr Vorobyov, please proceed.

(In his report, Moscow Region Governor Andrei Vorobyov spoke about the firefighters and first responders, the assistance provided by volunteers and businesses, and mentioned the effort to raise funds to meet the needs of the affected families.)

Vladimir Putin: Good.

Colleagues, would anyone like to add to that, provide additional information, or give an assessment?

Yes, Mr Krasnov.

Prosecutor General Igor Krasnov: Mr President, colleagues,

The terrorist attack that took place on March 22 highlighted the priorities that need to be addressed first in order to prevent such tragedies in the future and to help the victims to the best of our abilities.

I would like to emphasise that all services have been working as a team 24/7 since the first hours of the tragedy and continue to do so. We have focused in our work on blocking false information and attempts to incite interethnic and interreligious conflicts, as well as to spread panic and hatred based on ethnicity.

At our request, information has been removed from over 200 resources, including accounts on social media platforms such as Odnoklassniki, VKontakte and Telegram, as well as other websites. In addition to blatant fake stories, a significant amount of unverified information was posted online, contributing to destabilisation. Even reputable media outlets were guilty of this, and we had to refute such information and encourage media leaders to rely solely on official sources.

Priority measures also included assessing the performance of the oversight bodies responsible for inspecting this specific concert venue, including fire protection and anti-terrorist measures, compliance with the requirements for equipping security guards at mass attendance events in accordance with the number of spectators, evacuation measures, and the response time to phone calls from private security guard companies. A full assessment has yet to be completed, but it is clear that the scale of the terrorist attack was much bigger and didn't match the provisions of safety laws for such venues.

Given the significant increase in the level of terrorist threats, the executive authorities of the constituent entities need to update the safety and security passports for mass attendance venues. We will do this soon.

The facility safety and security passport must be updated at least once every three years in accordance with the corresponding provision of a regulatory act governing security requirements. One reason to update this passport is changes in the nature of terrorist threats related to mass attendance venues. The facility safety and security passport was approved on December 17, 2018, and has not been revised since then. Unfortunately, it does not take into account the existing terrorist threats.

We will also collaborate with the Emergencies Ministry to adjust the existing computation techniques for safety and evacuation provisions in case of fire. These techniques currently do not include scenarios of fires during terrorist attacks or similar arson cases.

The available video recordings show that the terrorists attacked using the main fire escape routes, causing people to flee in the opposite direction from the attackers and seek refuge on the premises.

Overall, I have provided all necessary instructions to the prosecutor; the law enforcement agencies are coordinating their actions, and the investigation into this criminal offense is being supervised. We continue to take all necessary measures to assist the crime victims and ensure the rule of law on a 24/7 basis.

This concludes my report.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

Please thoroughly review all the points you have outlined. We will meet again soon to discuss these issues.

Mr Kurenkov, do you have any information or comments regarding your work, or may be any suggestions regarding the statements made by the Prosecutor General?

Emergencies Minister Alexander Kurenkov: I have something to add, if I may.

The building was equipped with an automatic fire alarm system. This system responded to the fire as expected. There was also a set of four robotised fire-fighting hoses and a software control system, which worked in conjunction with other fire protection systems. They were activated during the terrorist attack, but the arson involved the use of flammable substances. According to experts, the system failed to extinguish the fire due to its large area. This is what I wanted to say.

We managed to totally extinguish the fire on wall panels, given the materials they were made of, only at 6.40 pm today. The search and rescue operations continue. They are expected to be completed by 5 pm tomorrow.

This concludes my report.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

I would like to express my gratitude to the employees of the Federal Security Service, the Interior Ministry, the National Guard, and the Defence Ministry, whom I instructed to take all necessary measures to apprehend the criminals. This was achieved through joint efforts, including the involvement of National Guard and Defence Ministry units.

We will certainly revisit all issues and details of this tragedy and discuss them. Regarding the reports, I ask everyone, as I mentioned earlier, to provide regular updates on the investigation.

Thank you.

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Putin Blames 'Radical Islamists' For Concert Massacre, But Still Points To Ukraine, U.S.

By RFE/RL's Russian Service March 25, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 25 said the terrorist attack at the Crocus City Hall concert venue near Moscow was committed by radical Islamists.

Speaking in a meeting with government officials, Putin said the killings were carried out by extremists "whose ideology the Islamic world has been fighting for centuries."

Putin did not mention the Islamic State group that claimed responsibility for the attack and instead again attempted to implicate Ukraine and the United States without providing evidence.

"We know that the crime was committed by radical Islamists....But we also see that the United States is trying to convince its satellites and other countries of the world that there is supposedly no trace of Kyiv in the Moscow terrorist attack," Putin said.

Kyiv and Washington have dismissed Putin's assertions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy vehemently denied any involvement in the attack, saying Putin was always seeking to blame "someone else."

Zelenskiy referred to Putin's comments in his nightly video message on March 25.

"Again, he accuses Ukraine. A sick and cynical creature. Everyone is a terrorist to him except for himself although he has been fueled by terror for two decades already," Zelenskiy said.

The White House said on March 24 that the Islamic State-Khorasan bore sole responsibility for the attack.

"There was no Ukrainian involvement whatsoever," U.S. National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said on March 24.

French President Emmanuel Macron on March 25 said France has intelligence pointing to "an IS entity" as responsible. Macron said it was a branch of Islamic State that "planned the attack and carried it out," adding the same terrorist group had plotted attacks in France.

The attack on March 22 on Crocus City Hall just outside Moscow left 139 people dead, according to a new death toll released during the meeting. More than 180 people were injured, and 97 of them remain in the hospital, officials said.

The attackers shot and killed concertgoers as they waited in line to get in and then entered the auditorium, where they killed more people before setting fire to the vast concert hall.

According to Putin, the attack "may only be a link" in a series of attacks carried out by those backing Ukraine's fight against Russia's full-scale invasion. He did not specify who he meant but previously blamed the "collective West" for starting the war.

An investigation must uncover who ordered the attack, he said, adding that it was necessary to find out why the terrorists "tried to flee to Ukraine and who was waiting for them there."

Putin claimed on March 23 that four gunmen were arrested while trying to escape to Ukraine, which he said "had prepared a window for them to cross the border." Putin provided no evidence to support this.

With reporting by AP and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/putin-blames-islamic- extremists-for-concert-massacre/32877032.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Kremlin Silent About Evidence That Moscow Attack Suspects Were Abused

By RFE/RL's Russian Service and Current Time March 25, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman refused to answer a question regarding indications that the four suspects in the deadly terrorist attack on a concert hall outside of Moscow may have been abused during and after their detention.

"I am leaving this question without an answer," spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on March 25 after a journalist asked him about the "visible signs of violence" on the suspects when they appeared in court the previous day.

Peskov praised the country's security forces generally, saying they were "working tirelessly and are countering all threats, all challenges facing our country."

He added that Putin would meet with senior officials later on March 25 to discuss the investigation into the March 22 attack, which left 139 people dead and more than 180 injured. Nearly 100 people remain hospitalized.

The Defense Ministry reported on March 25 that the state award called For Courage and the military honor For Military Excellence had been presented by a deputy commander of the Leningrad Military District, Lieutenant General Esedulla Abachev, during a ceremony at the units' base.

Russian officials have said 11 people have been detained in connection with the March 22 attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue in the Moscow suburb of Krasnogorsk, including four men who are suspected of having carried out the attack.

Moscow's Basmanny district court on March 24 remanded the four men -- Saidakram Rajabalizoda, Dalerjon Mirzoev, Muhammadsobir Faizov, and Faridun Shamsiddin -- into custody for at least two months pending trial on terrorism charges. The court identified the four as Tajik citizens and said they all admitted guilt after being charged.

The court on March 25 remanded three more suspects, including the former owner of the car that the attackers allegedly used to flee. The suspects are Aminjon, Dilovar, and Isroil Islomov. The court did not explain the relationship between the men, but Aminjon and Dilovar have patronymic names indicating they are sons of Isroil.

Dilovar Islomov is believed to be the last owner of the white Renault used by the attackers. The court ordered the Islomovs to remain in pretrial detention until at least May 22.

Evidence continued to emerge that the men may have been tortured during their detention by Russian security forces. All four appeared in court with bruises, bloodstains, and swollen faces.

Rajabalizoda, whose ear was reportedly cut off during his arrest, had a bandage on the right side of his head. There was no official confirmation that his ear had been severed, and forensic photographs presented in court did not show the injured side of his head.

Earlier, Telegram channels with purported connections to the Russian security agencies published a video purporting to show men cutting off a portion of Rajabalizoda's ear and trying to force him to eat it. The men also threatened to cut off his genitals. According to Russia's Fontanka news agency, the video was first published by Telegram channels connected with the notorious Wagner mercenary group.

Late on March 24, the Grey Zone Telegram channel, which has also been tied to the Wagner group, published a photograph purporting to show men torturing suspect Faridun Shamsiddin. The photograph shows a military radio connected by wire to the suspect's genitals, a well-documented form of torture through electric shock used in the Russian military.

The photograph was accompanied by a mocking text reading: "One of the detained terrorists-migrants from Tajikistan began to lose consciousness from all of the excitement so he was connected to a charger. Despite the fact that he is not a citizen of Russia, the special forces soldiers respected his rights and gave him a telephone to call his lawyer."

In another video, a suspect lying on the ground reads a statement in which he said a cleric had promised him 500,000 rubles ($5,500) to carry out the attack.

State Duma Deputy Aleksandr Khinshtein, who has close ties to the National Guard, wrote on Telegram that some of the suspects were detained near the village of Katsun in the Bryansk region. Security forces allegedly fired at a car carrying the suspects that failed to stop, detaining one on the spot and capturing an unspecified number of others after chasing them in a forest.

Grey Zone published the video purportedly showing the cutting off of Rajabalizoda's ear on March 23, saying the man had been captured in the forest. A man in the video yells at the suspect: "Chew, bastard! I will cut you open and shove it into your mouth." The channel added the comment: "So it will be with all of them."

Grey Zone gained prominence in November 2022 when it published a brutal video showing Wagner mercenaries executing a fellow mercenary, convicted murderer Yevgeny Nuzhin, with a sledgehammer.

Russian defense authorities on March 25 said they had presented state and military honors to two units stationed in the western Bryansk region, which borders Ukraine and Belarus, in connection with their purported roles in capturing some of the suspects.

The Defense Ministry reported that the state award called For Courage and the military honor For Military Excellence had been presented by a deputy commander of the Leningrad Military District, Lieutenant General Esedulla Abachev, during a ceremony at the units' base.

The Crocus City Hall attack was the worst terrorist incident in Russian since the 2004 Beslan school siege, in which 333 people, many of them children, were killed. The Islamic State (IS) militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

In his comments on March 25, Kremlin spokesman Peskov declined to comment on U.S. assertions it had warned Moscow in advance of a possible terrorist attack in the capital. He also said Moscow has had "no contacts" with the West since the attack.

He added that he was "not authorized" to comment on the IS claim of responsibility. Putin, in a televised address on March 23, also failed to mention the IS statement and hinted, without providing evidence, of a possible Ukrainian connection to the attack.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and other officials have vigorously denied the allegations.

Peskov also said the Kremlin was not involved in calls by parliamentarians and other top officials and pro-Kremlin media personalities to restore the death penalty following the Crocus City Hall attack.

"We are not taking part in the discussion at the moment," Peskov said.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-crocus-suspects- torture-abuse-state-honors/32876123.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic Jeenbek Kulubayev

25 March 2024 13:39

543-25-03-2024

On March 25, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov talked by telephone with Foreign Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic Jeenbek Kulubayev at the initiative of the Kyrgyz side.

The Foreign Minister of Kyrgyzstan offered his deep condolences in connection with the tragedy at the Crocus City Hall that killed over 100 civilians. He asked Sergey Lavrov to convey words of support to the families and friends of the deceased and also wished a speedy recovery to all the wounded.

Sergey Lavrov thanked his counterpart for the words of support.

The officials resolutely condemned all forms and manifestations of terrorism and reaffirmed their readiness to strengthen practical interaction in this sphere still further.

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Press release on the Russian Federation's non-recognition of the outer limits of the unilaterally established US continental shelf

25 March 2024 13:58

544-25-03-2024

On March 18-29, Kingston (Jamaica) is hosting a session of the Council of the International Seabed Authority (hereinafter referred to as the Authority). In accordance with the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, it is supposed to regulate the activities of states in the deep seabed of areas that are not subject to the national jurisdiction of the coastal states.

During the session, the Russian delegation announced its refusal to recognise the outer limits of the US continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles from the baselines from which the width of the territorial sea is measured in seven areas of the world's oceans. The US declared this in December 2023. It is unilaterally trying to reduce the area of the seabed under the Authority, and hence the entire international community, and to obtain additional sections of the shelf for its own use (about 1 million square kilometres).

These unilateral steps by the US do not conform to the rules and procedures established by international law. The Russian delegation criticised the selective approach of the US to the application of international law, focusing on its rights and completely ignoring its obligations, and blocked Washington's latest attempt to use the 1982 Convention exclusively to advance its own interests.

Earlier, a corresponding demarche was sent to the United States through bilateral channels.



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Pacific Fleet's surface ships perform submarine search exercise in the Sea of Japan

25.03.2024

In the Sea of Japan, the corvette Sovershennyy, small anti-submarine ships Metel and Koreets of the Pacific Fleet conducted an exercise, during which the Pacific Fleet's surface group practised the tasks of searching, detecting and destroying a submarine of the mock enemy.

During the anti-submarine exercise at the maritime training range, the group of ships entered the area where the enemy submarine was located and began a group search for an underwater object. Having detected an acoustic trail, the anti-submarine crews practised tactical elements of maritime warfare against the submarine in conditions of active resistance and attempts to hide from the persecution.

The mock enemy was the diesel-electric submarine Volkhov, whose crew successfully fired a Kalibr-PL missile system before the anti-submarine exercise.

The event was held in accordance with the Fleet's combat training plan. The objectives of the anti-submarine exercise have been achieved.

Press Service of the Eastern Military District

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Treasury Designates Russian Companies Supporting Sanctions Evasion Through Virtual Asset Services and Technology Procurement

U.S. Department of the Treasury

March 25, 2024

WASHINGTON -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned thirteen entities and two individuals for operating in the financial services and technology sectors of the Russian Federation economy including persons developing or offering services in virtual assets that enable the evasion of U.S. sanctions. Five entities were designated for being owned or controlled by OFAC-designated persons.

Many of the individuals and entities designated today facilitated transactions or offered other services that helped OFAC-designated entities evade sanctions. These designations build upon OFAC's February 23, 2024 action to target companies servicing Russia's core financial infrastructure and curtail Russia's use of the international financial system to further its war against Ukraine.A

"Russia is increasingly turning to alternative payment mechanisms to circumvent U.S. sanctions and continue to fund its war against Ukraine," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Brian E. Nelson. "As the Kremlin seeks to leverage entities in the financial technology space, Treasury will continue to expose and disrupt the companies that seek to help sanctioned Russian financial institutions reconnect to the global financial system."

COUNTERING THE POTENTIAL FOR SANCTIONS EVASION WITH VIRTUAL ASSETS

On February 24, 2024, the G7 Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to step up efforts against the evasion and circumvention of G7 sanctions and export control measures. The companies designated by OFAC today have all either helped build or operate blockchain-based services for, or enabled virtual currency payments in, the Russian financial sector, thus enabling potential sanctions evasion.A

Joint Stock Company B-Crypto (B-Crypto) is a Moscow-based fintech company that has partnered with OFAC-designated Rosbank to facilitate cross-border settlements for Russian exporters using virtual currencies. B-Crypto was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Sistemy Raspredelennogo ReyestraA (Masterchain) is a Moscow-based fintech company that has agreements to issue digital financial assets, a term in Russia's legal framework that refers to blockchain-based tokens that confer digital rights, with various OFAC-designated Russian banks, including VTB Bank and the Central Bank of Russia. Masterchain was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Laitkhaus (Laitkhaus) is a Moscow-based fintech company that has worked with OFAC-designated Sberbank and VTB Bank to issue, exchange, and transfer digital financial assets. Laitkhaus was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Atomaiz (Atomaiz), a Moscow-based fintech company, is a registered digital financial asset operator that has worked to tokenize precious metals and diamonds for Russian companies and is partnered with OFAC-designated Rosbank and Sovcombank. Atomaiz was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.A

Tokentrust Holdings Ltd., based in Cyprus, is the majority shareholder of Atomaiz and was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.A

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Veb3 TekhnologiiA (Veb3 Tekhnologii) and Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Veb3 IntegratorA (Veb3 Integrator) are Moscow-based technology companies providing blockchain solutions and platforms within the Russian financial sectors, with clients including OFAC-designated Sberbank and Alfa-Bank. Veb3 Tekhnologii and Veb3 Integrator were designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the technology sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Igor Veniaminovich Kaigorodov is the majority shareholder at both Veb3 Tekhnologii and Veb3 Integrator and was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the technology sector of the Russian federation economy.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Tsentr Obrabotki Elektronnykh Platezhey (TOEP), under its business names Netexchange and Netex24, is a Moscow-based fintech company that operates a virtual currency exchange which has enabled digital payments in rubles and virtual currencies to OFAC-designated entities such as Sberbank, Alfa-Bank, and Hydra Market. TOEP was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Timur Evgenyevich Bukanov (Bukanov) is the owner and director of TOEP and was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Bitfingroup OA (Bitfingroup) is an Estonian company that lists Bukanov as the sole owner. Bitfingroup was designated for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Bukanov.

Bitpapa IC FZC LLC (Bitpapa) operates a peer-to-peer virtual currency exchange and offers services to Russian nationals. To date, it has conducted transactions worth millions of dollars with OFAC-designated Russian entities Hydra Market and Garantex. Bitpapa was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Crypto Explorer DMCC (Crypto Explorer), under its business name AWEX, operates a Russia and UAE-based virtual currency exchange that offers conversions between virtual currencies, rubles, and UAE dirhams. AWEX offers cash services at its offices in Moscow and Dubai and also loads funds onto credit cards associated with OFAC-designated Russian banks such as Sberbank and Alfa-Bank. Crypto Explorer was designated pursuant to E.O. 14024 for operating or having operated in the financial services sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Obshchestvo S Ogranichennoy Otvetstvennostyu Kripto EksplorerA (OOO Kripto Eksplorer) is a Russian company that is solely owned by Crypto Explorer. OOO Kripto Eksplorer was designated for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Crypto Explorer.

DISRUPTING RUSSIA'S TECHNOLOGY PROCUREMENT

Joint Stock Company Echelon Technologies (Echelon Technologies) is a Moscow-based company that sells technology products and is owned by Joint Stock Company Echelon Union for Science and Technology (Echelon Union) an OFAC-designated entity licensed by the Russian Federal Security Service and the Russian Ministry of Defense. Echelon Technologies was designated pursuant to E.O.A 14024 for operating or having operated in the technology sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Autonomous Non-Profit Organization of Additional Professional Education Echelon Training Center and Limited Liability Company Key Information Systems are Moscow-based companies that work with and share an address with OFAC-designated Echelon Union and were designated pursuant to E.O.A 14024 for operating or having operated in the technology sector of the Russian Federation economy.

Limited Liability Company Echelon InnovationsA (Echelon Innovations), Limited Liability Company Project Consulting Bureau EchelonA (Project Bureau Echelon), and Limited Liability Company Cybersecurity Laboratory (Cybersecurity Laboratory) all list Echelon Union as the sole or majority shareholder. Echelon Innovations, Project Bureau Echelon, and Cybersecurity Laboratory were designated for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Echelon Union.

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.A

In addition,A foreign financial institutions that conduct or facilitate significant transactions or provide any service involving Russia's military-industrial base run the risk of being sanctioned by OFAC. Examples of activities that could expose foreign financial institutions to sanctions risk under E.O. 14024, as amended, areA maintaining accounts, transferring funds, or providing other financial services (i.e., payment processing, trade finance, insurance) for any persons designated for operating in the specified sectors or for any persons, either inside or outside Russia, that support Russia's military-industrial base, including those that operate in the specified sectors of the Russian Federation economy. For additional guidance, please see theA December 22, 2023 OFAC Sanctions AdvisoryA as well as OFAC Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)A 1146-1157.

The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the SDN List, but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer 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.

Click here for more information on the individuals and entities designated today.

###

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4 Suspects in Russia Concert Hall Attack Charged With Terrorism

By VOA News March 25, 2024

A Moscow court Sunday ordered pre-trial detention for four suspects charged with acts of terrorism in connection with an attack on a concert hall in the Russian capital that killed at least 137 people.

The four suspects appeared at a pre-trial hearing at Moscow's Basmanny District Court, where they were ordered held until at least May 22 pending trial.

The Moscow courts Telegram channel identified the suspects as Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, Saidakrami Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni, and Mukhammadsobir Faizov.

The court said Mirzoyev and Rachabalizoda admitted guilt.

Russian media identified all four suspects as all being citizens of the ex-Soviet republic of Tajikistan living in Russia.

Russia observed a day of mourning Sunday, two days after the attack at a suburban Moscow concert hall that also injured more than 180 people.

The attack Friday was the deadliest on Russian soil since the 2004 Beslan school siege, when Islamist militants took more than 1,000 people, including hundreds of children, hostage.

Four armed men walked toward the metal detectors Friday at Crocus City Hall a a 6,200-seat concert hall a firing their automatic weapons point-blank in short bursts at terrified civilians who fell screaming in a hail of bullets, according to witnesses.

The Islamic State terror group claimed responsibility for the attack.

In a statement posted by its affiliate Aamaq news agency on Telegram, Islamic State said it attacked a large gathering in Krasnogorsk on Moscow's outskirts, killing and wounding hundreds. It was not immediately possible to verify the authenticity of the claim.

Islamic State posted a grainy video purportedly showing the gunmen storming into what appears to be the Crocus concert hall.

In a televised address to the nation Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin offered his "deepest condolences" to the families of the victims and declared a National Day of Mourning after vowing to track down and punish all those behind the attack that he called "a bloody, barbaric terrorist act."

He said 11 people had been detained, including the four gunmen, who fled the concert hall and made their way to the Bryansk region, about 340 kilometers southwest of Moscow.

"They tried to hide and moved toward Ukraine, where, according to preliminary data, a window was prepared for them on the Ukrainian side to cross the state border," Putin said.

Russia's Federal Security Service, or FSB, claimed the gunmen had contacts in Ukraine and were captured near the border.

In his Saturday evening address Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Putin's claim that Ukraine had been involved.

"Putin and the other scum are just trying to blame it on someone else," he said.

Ukraine had "no involvement whatsoever" in the massacre in a Moscow concert hall that killed more than 137 people, the White House said Sunday, after Putin suggested a Kyiv connection.

"ISIS bears sole responsibility for this attack. There was no Ukrainian involvement whatsoever," said White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson, using an acronym for the Islamic State group.

U.S. officials have said Islamic State's Afghan affiliate IS-Khorasan carried out the attack.

The White House said the U.S. government had shared information with Russia early this month about a planned attack in Moscow and issued a public advisory to Americans in Russia on March 7.

Earlier this week, Putin denounced the U.S. warning as an attempt to intimidate Russians.

In video footage published by Russian media and Telegram channels with close ties to the Kremlin, one of the arrested suspects said he was offered money to carry out the attack.

"I shot people," the suspect said on camera, his hands tied, and his hair held by an interrogator, a black boot beneath his chin.

Another suspect was shown answering questions through a Tajik translator.

In a phone call with Putin on Sunday, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon condemned the Moscow concert hall attack, while the two leaders said their security services were working together on counterterrorism, the Kremlin said in a statement.

The Islamic State group is active in Tajikistan. The Central Asian nation shares a border with Afghanistan.

Some information in this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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Expanded meeting of the Prosecutor General's Office Board

Vladimir Putin spoke at the expanded meeting of the Prosecutor General's Office Board.

March 26, 2024

14:35

Moscow

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Krasnov, comrades,

Let me begin by addressing the recent tragic incident that occurred on March 22, when dozens of our citizens, including children, teenagers, and women were killed in a brutal terrorist attack in the Moscow Region. As you know, the perpetrators responsible for this mass murder have been arrested, and our law enforcement agencies are diligently investigating the circumstances surrounding this barbaric crime. They are piecing together the details of the attack, determining the roles and culpability of each individual involved, and analysing the findings provided by criminalists and experts. The Federal Security Service, alongside other intelligence services, is actively addressing pertinent issues in coordination with the National Anti-Terrorism Committee.

I trust that the prosecutors, within the scope of their authority, will ensure that justice is served when charging the accused and during the legal proceedings. It is imperative that the criminals receive a fair punishment for their actions in accordance with the laws of the Russian Federation.

In general, safeguarding the safety, rights, and freedoms of our citizens, as well as upholding Russia's sovereignty and promoting law and order, have consistently remained the primary objectives of state policy. Today, during our annual expanded board meeting, you will discuss the crucial areas that require our attention this year.

I want to note the effective role that prosecutors have played in defending the constitutional, social, and economic rights of our citizens over the past period. They have been instrumental in combatting extremism and attempts to interfere in our internal affairs. Prosecutors have steadfastly protected the interests of the state and society and addressed the concerns of people during personal receptions.

I want to thank the Russian prosecutorial corps for their commitment, integrity, and responsible approach to performing the tasks assigned. In particular I would like to commend the prosecutors working under challenging conditions in the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republics, as well as in the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions. Like your colleagues in the border regions, you are making courageous efforts, despite the challenging conditions, and performing your duties in a professional way. You have been assisting individuals in resolving urgent problems and safeguarding their rights and legitimate interests. We will continue to strengthen the prosecutor's offices in Donbass and Novorossiya, which is important for their effective integration into the common economic, legal, administrative, and social space of Russia.

Comrades,

This year, the prosecution bodies should step up their efforts in a number of key areas. First and foremost, we are talking about protecting the rights of citizens in areas such as labour, social issues, housing, and others. Any issues related to quality of life and well-being of Russian families, as well as every individual, should be given top priority.

In particular, you should ensure that wages, pensions, benefits, and subsidies are paid in full and on time. Use your broad powers to enforce this. Take a tough stance in cases of breach of legislation related to supporting families, including those with many children, people with disabilities, retired persons, and children without parents.

In my Address to the Federal Assembly, as well as in meetings with soldiers and officers, I have emphasised the public, moral importance of our joint work to support participants in the special military operation and their families.

I urge you to act decisively: promptly respond to complaints and requests, address any instances of bureaucratic red tape, pat answers, or direct violations of law. I also ask military prosecutors to place special emphasis on protecting the rights of military personnel.

Another top priority, which I also mentioned in my Address, is the younger generation, their education, and personality development. As you know, we plan to launch a new national project, The Youth of Russia. Also, it is crucial to intensify efforts to protect the rights of minors. Do everything possible to protect children and adolescents from criminal activity and the risks of them being drawn into criminal or extremist environments. Furthermore, it is the direct responsibility of prosecutors to regularly and thoroughly inspect educational institutions and places where children spend their free time to ensure compliance with safety requirements.

I have already mentioned that the most important task of the prosecutor's offices is to control and coordinate law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime. While there has been only a slight increase in some types of crimes last year, it is still an increase. I ask you to carefully analyse this trend together with your colleagues from the Interior Ministry and other law enforcement agencies. Also, consider implementing a system of additional preventive and anti-crime measures, including supervision of compliance with migration legislation. The situation in this area, which is very important and of great concern to millions of people, must be closely monitored.

In this context, I would like to note that prosecutors supported state prosecution in over 700,000 cases in courts in 2023. I hope that you will continue to professionally and competently assist in making legitimate, grounded and fair decisions.

I would like to ask you to strengthen control over ensuring the legality of detention of those accused and suspected of committing crimes, as well as ensuring the rights of citizens in places of confinement.

Comrades,

Today, there is an increased demand to protect the rights of entrepreneurs and all participants in economic life. You understand how important a healthy and efficient economy is to us. This is always important, but it carries special significance today. We will consistently continue to pursue our strategic line of removing administrative barriers and expanding economic freedoms, supporting business activity, and creating favourable conditions for our companies.

Let me reiterate that a competitive and attractive national jurisdiction and reliable guarantees of property and assets acquired in good faith are the most important conditions for the country's development, economic growth, and the creation of new jobs.

As you know, the task has been set to completely transition to a risk-based approach starting from 2025. Where there are no risks, preventive measures should be applied.

With this in mind, prosecution bodies will have to greatly adjust and update their work when exercising supervisory authority. I would like to ask you to act very carefully and prudently here, alongside the business community. It is necessary to reduce the number of audits of businesses as much as possible and ensure the protection of the rights of citizens and consumers of goods and services. These are two sides to the same coin. It is necessary to ease administrative pressure, but it is also important to consider and safeguard the interests of consumers.

One more important thing. The work of the Prosecutor General's Office to return a number of large enterprises and property complexes to state ownership is another important aspect.

I would like to express my position on this matter: there can be no de-privatisation, or nationalisation of the economy.

The work of prosecutors is justified in those situations where assets have been acquired in circumvention, in violation, of the law. And, moreover, when they are used to the detriment of the state. I must emphasise that in every case like this, it is necessary to act strictly in accordance with law, abiding by clear-cut legal procedures. I would like to ask you to nip in the bud any attempt to use the powers of the prosecutor's office and other law-enforcement bodies for personal gain, for exerting pressure on businesses and being part of economic conflicts rooted in unfair competition or various schemes related to asset redistribution.

In general, I expect the prosecutor's office to be more effective in fighting corruption. Speaking at a recent meeting of the Federal Security Service Board, I noted the need to focus on protecting the funds allocated, among other things, for the social sector, the state defence order, modernisation of the national defence industry, and implementation of national projects and federal programmes.

One more extremely important area of your work is environmental protection, the environmental well-being of the whole country, Russia's regions, cities and villages and, hence the quality of life of our people. You know that this is something our people are worried about as well.

I hope that the environmental prosecutors will act persistently and productively within their broad powers, primarily, in combatting illegal dumping and illegal logging. Industrial companies, as well as housing and utility companies must strictly observe the requirements on reducing harmful emissions into the air and eliminating the discharge of sewage into water. It is necessary to display the same responsibility in observing the law in specially protected nature conservation areas. I must say that I have recently noticed tangible progress in this respect. I would like to thank you for this and ask you not to relax your attention in this critical area.

Comrades,

Obviously, the destinies of people, the stability of the state and its social and economic development depend on a professional approach to resolving the challenges you face. I am confident that you will continue working effectively and professionally.

Thank you very much for your work. I wish you success.

<a>

Vladimir Putin: Mr Krasnov, colleagues,

In conclusion, I will just say a few words. Obviously, they are of a general nature, but I still think they matter.

As you now, our country is fighting to defend its vital interests, its right to independent, individual, sovereign development. Unfortunately, our ill-wishers, competitors and adversaries have compelled us to defend these interests by armed force, to fight against those whom they have armed and trained to fight Russia on the territory of a neighbouring state. Under the current conditions, everything we are doing in all areas of our life must be devoted to Russia's success in this respect. This means, of course, that the prosecutor's office retains its essential tools for success. We must not allow any slack in any way. We must tune all government bodies, all citizens of the country to strict observance of current regulations and laws.

We must be focused and effective; we cannot relax in anything. At the same time, the situation is not simple and requires a creative, flexible approach to all areas of regulation. First, as I said in my opening remarks, we need to focus on support for and assistance to our military personnel and their families. People should understand and know that the state protects them when they are fulfilling their duty to the Motherland, risking their lives. Everything the state has mapped out to support military personnel must be unquestionably fulfilled.

Special attention should also be paid to the economy because it guarantees success in all areas of the nation's life. There are many goals to pursue in this respect, but I won't repeat myself now, I won't repeat what I said or what the Prosecutor General said.

What I would like to emphasise is that while the prosecutor's office is primarily focused on ensuring strict adherence to the law, but I urge you to adopt a flexible approach to economic challenges. Rather than simply taking an approach of grabbing hold and not letting in, let us prioritise prevention by advising good-faith economic actors of potential legal pitfalls in good time. Our task should be to assist people while ensuring that deliberate violations and embezzlement are strictly punished.

We are allocating nine trillion rubles - a huge amount of money - over the next few years across various sectors, including increasing defence capability, support for defence enterprises, as well as the social sphere such as education, healthcare, and science. It is important that we rigorously ensure these funds are used efficiently and transparently, without any misappropriation. This will ensure they are directed towards enhancing our economic prosperity.

Moreover, there is another important aspect, which is generally social in the broadest sense of the word: it is crucial for people to feel that the prosecutor's office is safeguarding their interests. Justice depends on it, and justice is very important and valued highly in our country. And how well we manage to ensure social justice, in turn, determines the internal political wellbeing of Russian society, which includes the preservation of our state and achieving the goals we set in key areas.

The responsibility you bear is immense, and I want to express my gratitude for your hard work last year. I wish you further success.

Thank you very much.

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Telephone conversation with General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong

March 26, 2024

13:30

Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong, at the Vietnamese side's initiative.

Nguyen Phu Trong expressed deep condolences over the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall.

The leaders had an in-depth discussion on bilateral relations, focusing on further development of mutually beneficial trade and economic, scientific and technological cooperation, and humanitarian exchanges. The parties specifically stressed that Russia and Vietnam hold similar positions on the international agenda, and expressed confidence that Russian-Vietnamese comprehensive strategic partnership would continue to grow stronger.

The conversation was held in a traditionally friendly and constructive atmosphere. It was agreed to maintain dialogue at various levels, as well as personal contacts.

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Why Putin Is Trying To Pin The Concert Hall Attack On Kyiv And The West

By Steve Gutterman March 26, 2024

In his first remarks following the assault on a concert hall outside Moscow on March 22, more than 18 hours after gunmen killed at least 139 people in the deadliest terror attack in Russia in 20 years, President Vladimir Putin made no mention of the extremist group Islamic State, which had already claimed responsibility.

He did mention Ukraine, however, stating that Kyiv had provided a "window" on the border between the two countries to enable the attackers to try to escape. He did not provide evidence.

In subsequent comments late on March 25, Putin said that "radical Islamists" had carried out the attack, for which the United States has said Islamic State-Khorasan, an affiliate of the extremist group Islamic State (IS), bore sole responsibility. But he also doubled down on intimations that Ukraine played a role -- and also pointed a finger at the United States and the West.

Among other wording clearly meant to convey to Russians that Ukraine and the West were behind the attack, Putin said that the United States was "using every channel to try to convince its satellites and other countriesathat there is supposedly no indication of involvement by Kyiv." And he suggested that the attack was part of what he described as efforts by Ukraine, "carrying out the orders of its Western handlers," to "sow panic" in Russia as Moscow's forces make gains in the invasion of its neighbor.

Meanwhile, state-run media in Russia have avidly played up the idea that Ukraine and the West were behind the attack, as have senior officials and lawmakers. In a brief exchange posted on Telegram, a reporter asked Security Council Secretary and close Putin ally Nikolai Patrushev, "[IS] or Ukraine?" and Patrushev replied, "Of course, Ukraine."

Placing blame abroad for things that happen in Russia -- from terror attacks to peaceful opposition protests -- is nothing new for Putin. He has been doing it since at least 2004, after the hostage crisis that left more than 330 people dead at a school in the southern town of Beslan, insinuating that Washington and the West were supporting Islamic militants in the North Caucasus in an effort to weaken Russia.

But the stakes this time may be particularly high: Putin has just secured a new six-year term in an election marred by evidence of wide-scale fraud, and his decision to launch an all-out invasion of Ukraine has led to a long, grueling war and hundreds of thousands of Russian casualties instead of the speedy subjugation of Kyiv that he apparently expected.

Here are some of the reasons Putin is pointing the finger at Kyiv and the West in the Crocus City Hall attack.

The Narrative

Since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, Putin has tried to turn Russia into a country where a war footing is a matter of course, a fact of life, and to use it to tighten his grip on the country. His spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, recently called for "internal mobilization," suggesting Russians should not just back the war outwardly but believe in it as something like a matter of faith -- a striking suggestion given that, for most Russians, support for the war is passive and without personal enthusiasm.

Increasingly, Putin has sought to convince citizens that the country is fighting not a war of aggression against Ukraine but rather an existentially crucial defensive war in which Ukraine is just a tool in the hands of Washington and the West, which are bent on dominating or destroying Russia. This view is enforced through laws that the state has been using to silence Russians who criticize or question the war on Ukraine.

In that narrative, there's little room for a deadly attack by Islamic extremists. The Crocus City Hall attack could suggest that Putin has taken his eye off threats that are more imminent, or more real, than those he says are posed by the West.

The 'Failure'

Against that backdrop, suggesting the attack was ultimately the work of the West may be a bid to soften the blow, symbolic as it may be, from what Alexander Vershbow, a fellow at the Atlantic Council think tank and a former U.S. ambassador to Moscow, said was a "serious intelligence failure."

Missing such a threat would be particularly hard to explain in light of the fact that earlier in March, the United States had warned Russia of intelligence indicating extremists had "imminent plans" for an attack -- and the fact that Putin, three days before it happened, had publicly dismissed the warning as a "provocative" effort "to intimidate and destabilize our society."

So one motive for suggesting that the United States may have had a role in the attack could have been to fit the U.S. warning -- which came ahead of the March 15-17 presidential election -- into the broader narrative of a war in which Russia's adversaries would stop at nothing to get the upper hand.

Ukraine has denied any role in the attack, and U.S. National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said on March 24 that there was "no Ukrainian involvement whatsoever."

The Dilemma

While there's no visible evidence of a connection with Ukraine, there is an apparent link with Central Asia: Russian authorities have detained at least 11 people and ordered eight of them held in pretrial detention, including four citizens of Tajikistan who are accused of carrying out the shooting.

Because Russia relies substantially on labor migrants from Tajikistan and other Central Asian countries, the identity of the alleged suspects poses "a serious policy dilemma" for Putin, said Mark Galeotti, an analyst of Russian politics and security issues.

"If he says, 'Yes, this was Islamic State, operating through the medium of Central Asian residents and guest workers,' then, firstly, it aggravates racial tensions, which actually is a problematic issue in a multiethnic, multi-confessional state like the Russian Federation where 10 percent of the population is Muslim. But it also actually then begs the question: What are you going to do about it?

"The inevitable corollary would be some kind of crackdown on Central Asians, which as we know from past experience would be handled in a fairly thuggish and insensitive way," he said. "At the moment, Russia cannot afford to alienate and drive out these Central Asian workers -- it needs thema. Between the impact of the war and the need to have the defense factories running at full pelt, there is actually a shortage of labor."

The attack has worsened ethnic tensions, and the public display of graphic footage appearing to show Russian security officers abusing the detainees could be designed to slake any thirst for revenge. But Putin may be hoping to avoid broad steps such as placing heavier restrictions on entry to Russia for citizens of Tajikistan and its neighbors, Galeotti said, because it would "damage the Russian economy and damage Russia's standing with its crucial Central Asian allies."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/putin-terror-attack- ukraine-united-states-blame/32878403.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Interview: Putin, The Terror Attack, And The Threat Whose Name He 'Dare Not Speak'

By Steve Gutterman March 26, 2024

Gunmen entered a concert hall just outside Moscow on March 22 and opened fire, killing at least 139 people in the deadliest terror attack in Russia since the hostage crisis at a school in Beslan, in the North Caucasus, in September 2004. The extremist group Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, which came five days after President Vladimir Putin secured a new term in a tightly controlled election marred by evidence of massive fraud.

Russia expert Mark Galeotti is a political analyst, author, and honorary professor at the UCL School of Slavonic and East European Studies (SSEES) in London. RFE/RL's Steve Gutterman spoke to him about the Crocus City Hall attack on the March 25 edition of The Week Ahead In Russia podcast. (Subscribe here.)

RFE/RL: This was the first major attack of its kind in Russia since, I believe, 2017. And by far the deadliest in almost 20 years, since the Beslan school hostage crisis in September 2004, which ended with more than 330 people dead, more than half of them children. Mark, for my first question, I'm going to refer back to Beslan. After that attack, [Russian President Vladimir] Putin put some of the blame on Washington and the West, insinuating they were supporting Islamic militants in the North Caucasus in an effort to weaken or destroy Russia -- the latter part of which has been, of course, a common accusation or theme of Putin's over the ensuing 20 years: that the West is out to to hold Russia back and essentially destroy it.

In his first public remarks on the Crocus City Hall attack, which came more than 18 hours after the attack, [Putin] claimed without providing evidence that Ukraine had provided a "window" on the border between Russia and Ukraine to enable the attackers to try to escape. And there's been plenty of propaganda in the Russian media pointing the finger at Ukraine. Kyiv has adamantly denied any involvement. And of course, Islamic State (IS) has claimed responsibility.

The United States has indicated that it believes IS was behind it. Mark, what do you think about these Russian insinuations? What about those who say Russia could have staged this as a false flag? After all, Putin has used terror attacks in the past as a pretext to clamp down on dissent inside Russia.

Mark Galeotti: We tend to obviously come back to these false flag allegations, particularly because of the 1999 apartment bombings that in so many ways eased the way for a relatively unknown Putin to become president. However, just because there was that one particular case, we shouldn't assume everything that happens is a false flag -- as, to be perfectly honest, some people in the wonderful and deranged world of social media do.

If one looks at many of the kind of the specific data points that people claim demonstrate that there was something iffy about it -- let's very quickly break it down. The idea that, "Oh, well, there were no security guards at Crocus." Well, we know that there were. The Agalarovs, the owners, have said so, and at least one [security guard], I think, was killed in the attack. And we have other cases of security guards leading people to safety and so forth. So that's not true.

[As to] the idea that it's impossible given the density of security cameras and everything else in Moscow -- well, let's face it, even highly secure areas are vulnerable. And particularly Crocus -- I mean, it's not actually in Moscow; it's in this sort of commuter belt town, just outside the Ring Road. So it's not really in the main security zone.

As regards the suggestion that it took an hour for any emergency services to arrive, even though there's a base of the National Guard's OMON police just about a 10-minute drive down the road, in fact, it seems to have taken more like 30 to 35 minutes for them to arrive, and the terrorists were out in 20 to 25 minutes.

More to the point, it escapes the notice of people that these things take time; it takes time for people to raise the alarm, for people to realize quite what's going on, for orders to be given for the special weapons forces to be mobilized, issued their guns, loaded up into vans, and so forth. Actually, basically what we have seen is really what one could have expected.

One always has to look at motivation. Putin at the moment, I don't think, needs pretexts or mandates: He's just awarded himself, after all, an 87 percent vote in the presidential election. He, frankly, is doing every vicious thing he can to the Ukrainians, pretty much. It's not like there's some key escalation. I think it's highly unlikely that this will be used as a pretext for some kind of national mobilization unless he was already planning it.

Given that, actually, he ends up looking quite weak out of this, because there's not going to be some kind of great cathartic outcome. I think we can set aside the false flag notion, just as we can set aside the Ukraine element. To be sure, both HUR (Ukrainian military intelligence) and the SBU (the Ukrainian Security Service) have been carrying out what we could call, sort of, terrorist tactic operations within Russia, sometimes precisely by recruiting dupes or blackmailing them into attacks. But nonethelessathere is absolutely no evidence Ukraine had any responsibility in this. In that case, this is just classic Putin just using it as an opportunity to demonize them.

In fact, this is, I think, exactly what it looks like: Islamic State Khorasan, which is the sort of affiliate in Afghanistan, Pakistan, [and] Central Asia, has long regarded the Russian "crusaders" as being their main target; they carried out a variety of terrorist attacks in Russia over recent years, and indeed seem to have been behindaa case on the 7th of March that the FSB prevented, which was going to be an armed attack on a synagogue in Kaluga.

These are people who clearly have the means to carry out terrorist operations, particularly armed terrorist operations. They clearly have the desire to do so, and indeed, not only have they claimed credit, but they have also demonstrated a certain amount of information about the attack.

RFE/RL: You mentioned in your podcast yesterday that Putin, when he finally did come out and make remarks about this attackamade no mention of Islamic State, let alone Islamic State-Khorasan, even though IS had already claimed responsibility. (In subsequent comments aired late on March 25, Putin said the attack had been carried out by "radical Islamists" but suggested without evidence that Ukraine and the West may have played roles.) And I guess the only country or entity that he did mention was Ukrainea. There had also been a U.S. warning a couple of weeks earlier about potential IS attacks, although I guess that covered the 48-hour period, so it was [some] time ago. Why do you think Putin avoided mention of Islamic State?

Galeotti: It's a combination of things. It may well be precisely embarrassment, having so publicly just a few days earlier criticized America for its warning, saying that in fact it was all a sort of a provocation and attempt at intimidation. Maybe he didn't actually want to admit, "Yeah, OK, fair enough, maybe it was Islamic State after all."

Secondly, I think there is a clear political desire to use this precisely to vilify the Ukrainians. You know, we've got to remember that his war in Ukraine is really not a broadly popular war. That's not to say that most Russians are actively opposed to it, but certainly the actual support for it is small and probably -- it's hard to tell -- diminishing. So from his point of view, anytime he can adduce something as evidence that Kyiv is in the grip of a neo-Nazi terroristic state, that's good -- for him.

Perhaps most importantly, there is actually a serious policy dilemma here. If he says, "Yes, this was Islamic State, operating through the medium of Central Asian residents and guest workers," then, firstly, it aggravates racial tensions, which actually is a problematic issue in a multiethnic, multi-confessional state like the Russian Federation where 10 percent of the population is Muslim. But it also actually then begs the question: What are you going to do about it?

The inevitable corollary would be some kind of crackdown on Central Asians, which as we know from past experience would be handled in a fairly thuggish and insensitive way. At the moment, Russia cannot afford to alienate and drive out these Central Asian workers -- it needs them. It needs them to do the work that frankly, there aren't Russians to do, or that Russians don't want to do.

At the moment, there is a labor crisis: Between the impact of the war and the need to have the defense factories running at full pelt, there is actually a shortage of labor. So, to actually exacerbate that by risking driving Central Asians out of the country -- that would directly impact his war effort and also have diplomatic implications with his relationships with the Central Asian countries, which are feeling much, much less intimidated by Moscow now, and which Moscow needs because these are crucial routes for sanctions-busting smuggling into Russia of all kinds of spare parts, materials, microchips, whatever, that the war effort needs.

In this respect, I think he was afraid, frankly, of pointing the finger at the Central Asians: They have become in some ways the new Navalny: the threat which he dare not speak their name. Therefore he just defaulted to these, frankly, rather lackluster and unconvincing claims about some sort of unspecified Ukrainian connection.

RFE/RL: My second question has a few strandsa. One, why has this happened now? Two, does Russiaanow face a major new or revived threat of militant attacks? And three, how are Putin and the government likely to respondaboth within Russia and in terms of any actions abroad or any change in the way Moscow is waging its war against Ukraine?

Galeotti: We have to recognize that Russia has continued to face a terrorist threat -- again, it just tends not to be in the news, because it's not as kind of horrifically high profile and bloody, or else, as with that synagogue attack, they are forestalled by the authorities, but this is actually a constant, low-level issue.

Why now? I think these [kinds of attacks] tend to be opportunistic rather than anything elsea. In many cases, it's just when there are people who have been groomed or who have radicalized themselves to the pitch where they're willing to carry out an attack, where often the odds of survival or escape are actually relatively limited....

One can point to certainly some factors that might have contributed. It may well beathat, in fact, the security forces have been rather distracted by the two priorities coming down from the Kremlin, which is Ukrainian sabotage attacks and the domestic political opposition. But I think that only goes so far.

The FSB is a pretty massive organization. It's not like it doesn't still have people working on the counterterrorism beat. This is not, for example, like we saw after 9/11, where there was this massive reorientation of the American internal law and order and security apparatus toward counterterrorism, which meant you did suddenly get people being yanked off, for example, the Russia counterespionage desks, and being hurriedly retrained and sent into new expanded counterterrorism elements. We've not had that kind of structural reorientation of the FSB, and so forth.

So, you know, I think ultimately, it's just one of these things: Unfortunately, the depressingly banal answer is these things will happen, and they will happen when they happen, because sometimes the terrorists will get through.

[As for] in the context of how Russia will respond, we can almost think of this in three dimensions. One of them is, assuming that they keep pushing this notion of the Ukraine dimension -- and it's quite interesting that, yes, this is very much coming out of the usual toxic, outspoken Kremlin talking heads, on television and the like, and also in the more tabloid press. But actually, the more professional observers and commentators are being a lot more restrained about this. They're certainly not saying Ukraine was behind this; they are maybe accepting that there was an element of facilitating, buta.

I have a suspicion that there is a degree of embarrassment within the more professional community about this fairly blatantly false claim. So what we might get is some kind of extra-performative attack, as we've seen in the past, like when the Kerch bridge was downed. But maybe it will be in the context of the current spate of Russian missile and drone attacksa. It probably won't really change anythinga. In Ukraine, there isn't really much scope for escalation.

In terms of domestic security, a lot will depend on how the politics of the situation emerges. We've seen these horrific videos of security forces dealing with the alleged terrorists, one of whom seems to have his genitals attached to an electric battery, and the other who seems to have had part of his ear cut off and put in his mouth.

I suppose in part this may be an attempt to assuage the angers of the Russian population, which are understandable. If it doesn't work, if people are still calling for action, then just simply in order to satisfy the baying of the majority Putin may well be willing to actually countenance some kind of crackdown on a minority. So we still may well see him forced into a position where he has to do some kind of performative bloodletting. I think he's trying to avoid it, but if that's what he'll do, that's what he'll do.

The third real issue in terms of the response is this: It was striking when, before the terrorist attack, we had presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov make this interview with [Russian media outlet] Argumenty i Fakty, which caused a certain amount of commotion because he used the "w" word related to Ukraine: the word "war." Now some people are saying, "Oh, well, this was Peskov admitting that Russia is at war." Well, that's not actually what he was saying. He was simply reiterating the wider question about the fact that as far as the Kremlin is concerned, what's happening in Ukraine -- the "special military operation," so-called -- is just one part, one front of a wider war with the West.

Putin had used that language in his state of-the-union [address on February 29] and so forth. It's nothing new. But the interesting thing about Peskov's interview, by my lights, was his mention of this notion of this war being important in terms of shaping Russians' sense of their internal mobilization. That's a key element: The idea that Russians now think of themselves in a wartime footing, where there is no more middle ground between patriots and traitors, and everyone must push all their efforts.

In that context, the interesting thing is: What do Russians internalize about the threats facing them? Do they actually think everything is about Ukraine and the West? Do they actually think this is about some kind of nasty, insidious terrorist attack? Or do they actually begin to think of Putin as, frankly, failing? He's already failed as the Great Provider because their quality of life is beginning to be impinged. Is he also failing as the Great Defender?

And if that begins to take root, then I think we'll see the Kremlin being pushed into even more extreme actions to try and demonstrate to Russians that it is indeed still able to protect them from all the enemies besieging them. But the point is, these are all things we're going to have to watch play out in the coming weeks.

RFE/RL: What kind of actions might those be, do you think, if Putin and the Kremlin feel that Russians are starting to see him as a failure? There have been plenty of things that have happened since the summer -- there was [Wagner chief Yevgeny] Prigozhin's mutiny, and now this attack. What do you think Putin might try to do to reassure Russians that he is the Great Protector?

Galeotti: The interesting thing is that all the options are pretty much self-harming ones. Obviously, we can expect a lot of security theater, we can expect a lot more uniforms on the streets, and document checks and all that kind of thing, which actually have very little effect in terms of real security but make people believe things are being done.

Beyond that, though -- especially if it becomes harder and harder to sustain the Ukraine connection. When you've visibly got four Central Asians as your assassins, and also a sort of support network who apparently are also largely or entirely drawn from Central Asian origins, people will quickly enough draw their own conclusions.

Already, if you look at Russian social media, the Islamic State dimension and the ethnic dimension is being played up a lot. So, Putin is not able to capture the national debate in that way. If he's going to act against that -- I mentioned about the risks of some kind of crackdown on Central Asians. We've also got people arguing that there should be an end to uncontrolled migration -- not that it is uncontrolled migration, but you know, actually making it harder for Central Asians to come to Russia, [with] more security checks and document checks and so forth. That might be done.

But if so, again, it's going to make it harder and less economically viable for people to come to Russia. We might even actually see people wanting to review the visa regulations relating to particularly Tajikistan, because the four [alleged suspects Russian courts have ordered held in pretrial detention] are all of Tajik extraction, which is already worrying and annoying the Tajik authorities.

We may well see a series of moves which are essentially designed to satisfy Russians, but which in practice will both damage the Russian economy and damage Russia's standing with its crucial Central Asian allies.

RFE/RL: Another question about the U.S. warning: Putin really, as you said, dismissed and kind of angrily criticized the U.S. warning that there could be an attacka. Why do you think he did that? What does it say about relations between Russia and the West and the United States? Obviously [relations] are in extremely bad shape. But in the past, they've listened to each other on these kinds of warnings sometimes.

Galeotti: I think the Americans clearly gave this warning in good faith. However, Putin has a tendency to mirror-image. I suspect that just as he probably wouldn't hesitate to issue a bogus warning for political, informational purposes, I think that when those 48 hours the warning pertained to -- which was March 8-9 -- had passed without incident, I think he got angry and thought this was, in fact, an attempt by the Americans to rattle Russians before the election.

Remember, one of the key Kremlin goals was precisely to ensure that there was a high turnout. If people are worried that some place where you cluster together might become a terrorist attack, then conceivably it might have affected turnout. So, I think Putin, imputing on Americans precisely the kind of goals that he might have had, decided to angrily strike back.

It's also worth noting that we are in a position where we really don't know much about the nature of this warning. American sources are saying, "Oh, it was all pretty specific." Russian sources are saying it was all pretty generic. The Americans also been saying that they think that there's been a heightened risk from Islamic State-Khorasan since November -- well, that was months ago.

To say that there may be an attack, and it may be an attack on some large gathering, including concerts, and it may be at some point this month, is not really very actionable. Now, that said, at the moment, I have no idea. I have no idea whether in fact, it was, "We think it's going to be, you know, on a Friday at a major concert," which is actually quite usefully actionable, or whether it was very general.

The point is that regardless of what the professionals might have thought -- and there are some suggestions of a slightly increased police presence at some events and so forth this month -- it's clear Putin had just convinced himself that those perfidious Americans could not possibly be actually passing on a good-faith warning and that it was all just some attempt to undermine his own triumph [in the election].

The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/putin-russia-attack- analysis-galeotti-central-asia/32877947.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Turkmenistan To Repatriate University Students Studying In Russia After Terror Attack

By RFE/RL's Turkmen Service March 26, 2024

Turkmen authorities are exploring how to bring Turkmen students studying at Russian universities back home, amid fears of an anti-immigrant backlash in the wake of last week's terrorist attack on Moscow's outskirts.

People close to police and security agencies in one Turkmen region told RFE/RL that they had received orders from the capital Ashgabat to figure out how to repatriate Turkmen students from Russia.

It's unclear exactly how many Turkmen students attend Russian universities, though estimates put the number in the thousands.

The government has also ordered officials to organize meetings with students and teachers, to warn them about religious radicalism, said one person with knowledge of the plans who asked not to be named due to fear of prosecution. They added that police have also received instructions saying that "some Western countries were behind the individuals who carried out the attack" at the Crocus City Hall on March 22.

Four gunmen entered the Moscow venue as a rock concert was about to begin, opening fire on the crowd and later setting fire to the building. As of March 26, the death toll stood at 139, with more than 120 people wounded by gunshots, smoke inhalation, or burns.

Russian authorities have accused four ethnic Tajik men who worked as migrant laborers in Russia of being the attackers; four other people with Central Asian backgrounds have also been accused of being accomplices in the attack.

The arrests have stoked fears of an anti-immigrant backlash in Russian society; millions of migrant workers from Central Asia labor in Russia, where wages are substantially higher. Most Central Asian nations rely heavily on remittances to buttress their economies.

Kyrgyzstan has already advised its citizens to refrain from traveling to Russia out of fears Kyrgyz nationals could be harassed or attacked.

Security officers in three other Turkmen cities -- Cheleken, Balkanabat, and Turkmenbashi -- were reportedly conducting mass questioning of men and women on their way to mosques for prayers, according to local witnesses. The majority of those stopped and questioned were men with beards and women in hijabs.

The security officers "recommended" some of those who were stopped for questioning "to pray at home" and others were asked about links with radical Islamist groups, multiple people told RFE/RL.

Law enforcement officers also reportedly told believers that they should stop fasting during Ramadan, when all practicing Muslims abstain from food, water, and smoking from sunrise to sunset. The Muslim holy month began this year on March 10.

In the western city of Turkmenbashi, all shops selling religious items and clothes, such as rugs for prayers, hijabs, Korans, and similar goods were ordered closed following the Moscow attack.

The gas-rich Central Asian desert nation is one of the most closed and repressive countries in the world.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/turkemistan-students- russia-repatriate-crocus-moscow-attack/32878262.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Imprisoned Russian Politician Kara-Murza's Wife Backs Prisoner Swap

By RFE/RL's Siberia.Realities March 26, 2024

Yevgenia Kara-Murza, the wife of imprisoned Russian opposition politician Vladimir Kara-Murza, has said she would support a possible prisoner swap between Russia and the West to save her husband and other political prisoners in Russia whose lives might be in danger.

Her statement came after the suspicious death of outspoken Kremlin critic and opposition politician Aleksei Navalny in a Russian Arctic prison last month.

Navalny's team said earlier that they had found out that a deal on Navalny's possible release as part of a prisoner swap was almost reached days before Russian authorities announced his death on February 16.

"When human lives are at stake, all possible means must be used to save these people's lives," Yevgenia Kara-Murza told reporters in Geneva on March 25, adding that prisoner exchanges had been used during the Cold War to liberate imprisoned Soviet dissidents.

Yevgenia Kara-Murza also said she was not aware of any ongoing negotiations on a possible prisoner swap between Russia and the West at the moment.

Vladimir Kara-Murza, 42, who holds Russian and British passports, was initially arrested in April 2022 after returning to Russia from abroad and charged with disobeying a police officer.

He was later charged with discrediting the Russian military, a charge stemming from Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine and a Kremlin push to stamp out criticism of the subject. He was later additionally charged with treason over remarks he made in speeches outside Russia that criticized Kremlin policies.

In April last year, Kara-Murza was found guilty of all charges and sentenced to 25 years in prison.

Kara-Murza fell gravely ill on two separate occasions in Moscow -- in 2015 and 2017-- with symptoms consistent with poisoning.

Tissue samples smuggled from Russia to the United States by his relatives were turned over to the FBI, which investigated his case as one of "intentional poisoning."

U.S. government laboratories conducted extensive tests on the samples, but documents released by the Justice Department suggest their findings were inconclusive.

The Kremlin has denied any involvement in the incidents but investigative reporters from Bellingcat, The Insider, and Der Spiegel say they have identified four Federal Security Service (FSB) -- Roman Mezentsev, Aleksandr Samofal, Konstantin Kudryavtsev, and Valery Sukharev -- who followed Kara-Murza secretly during his trips before both times when he fell ill.

With reporting by Deutsche Welle and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-imprisoned-kara- murza-wife-prisoner-swap/32878243.html

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Tajik Authorities Detain, Question Relatives Of Suspected Moscow Gunmen

By RFE/RL's Tajik Service March 26, 2024

DUSHANBE -- Tajik authorities detained relatives of four Tajik men accused of storming a Moscow-region concert hall and gunning down scores of people, questioning the relatives as the investigation into Russia's worst terrorist attack in decades widens.

The move comes as Russian authorities charged an eighth man in connection with the March 22 attack, which killed at least 139 people and wounded scores more.

The Islamic State militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack on the Crocus City Hall, where people were taking their seats for a concert by a Soviet-era rock band when four men began gunning people down, and then set fire to the venue.

As of March 26, the death toll stood at 139, with more than 120 people wounded, many hospitalized with gunshot wounds or burns.

Four ethnic Tajik men who worked as migrant laborers in Russia have been accused of staging the attack. The four appeared in a Moscow court on March 24, and were ordered held in pretrial detention. All four showed signs of being severely beaten, and unconfirmed reports said they may have been tortured while in custody.

In the Tajik capital, Dushanbe, and several surrounding towns, law enforcement authorities went to the homes of relatives of the men, and took them back to the capital for questioning, neighbors and relatives told RFE/RL.

In Vahdat, a town just east of Dushanbe, the mother, brother, two uncles, and other relatives of one of the accused gunmen -- Saidakram Rajabalizoda -- were taken away by police on the evening of March 25, a domestic employee told RFE/RL. Other neighbors said that the head of the neighborhood where the family lived was also taken by police.

An unknown number of relatives of another of the suspected gunmen -- Muhammadsobir Faizov -- were taken from their homes in Dushanbe, neighbors told RFE/RL.

Tajik authorities have made no statement about the detentions. The Foreign Ministry issued a statement hours after the attack, refuting reports identifying three other Tajik men who allegedly participated in the attack, but has made no further comment.

In Moscow, Russians flocked to the venue to lay flowers and mourn the dead, while rescue workers picked through the wreckage of the concert hall, which was gutted by a fire shortly after the shooting.

Russian authorities charged an eighth man in connection with the attack, according to the state news agency TASS. Moscow's Basmanny District Court ordered the detention of Alisher Kasimov, a Kyrgyz-born Russian citizen, accusing him of allegedly renting an apartment to the four attackers.

Kasimov's detention brings the number of people ordered held in custody to eight as of March 26; 11 people in all have been detained by police, according to officials.

A day earlier, a Moscow court ordered three men held on charges related to their providing a car and an apartment to the attackers.

President Vladimir Putin has stated that the attack was carried about by "radical Islamists," but he and other top officials have also asserted that Ukraine and the United States had a role to play -- something both countries have dismissed outright.

Nikolai Patrushev, the hawkish director of Russia's Security Council, repeated that allegation on March 26 when asked by reporters in passing whether Kyiv or the Islamic State group was behind the attack.

"Of course, Ukraine," he said.

The director of Russia's main domestic intelligence agency, meanwhile, also asserted Ukraine was involved, repeating earlier statements that the suspects had sought to travel to Ukraine after the attack.

"In general, we believe they are involved in this," Federal Security Service director Aleksandr Bortnikov was quoted by Russian reporters as saying.

"We believe the action was prepared both by the radical Islamists themselves and, of course, facilitated by Western special services, and Ukraine's special services themselves have a direct connection to this," he was cited as saying by Russian news agencies.

He provided no evidence.

In Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy again vehemently denied any involvement on March 25, saying in his nightly video address that Putin was always seeking to blame "someone else."

U.S. officials have also dismissed the assertions, saying publicly that intelligence showed Islamic State was behind the attack. And French President Emmanuel Macron also said a branch of Islamic State "planned the attack and carried it out," adding the same group had plotted attacks in France.

The images of the four Tajik men, shown badly beaten, drew criticism and questions about the Russian authorities' methods.

Video that circulated on Telegram purported to show one of the men having his ear cut off and stuffed into his mouth. Another Telegram channel known to be linked to the Wagner mercenary group published a photograph purporting to show one of the detained men with his genitals attached to an electric wire.

Team Against Torture, a Russian organization that advocates against police brutality, said in a statement that the culprits must face stern punishment, but "savagery should not be the answer to savagery."

About two weeks before the attack, the U.S. Embassy in Moscow released an unusual warning, saying radical "extremists" might be plotting to target public locations, and urged American citizens to be careful.

The warning was met with derision by officials, including Putin, who suggested it was aimed at embarrassing him ahead of presidential elections that he easily won in the absence of any credible opponents.

Speaking in Washington on March 25, White House national-security adviser John Kirby said U.S. officials shared the intelligence warnings ahead of time, under a tenet of the U.S. intelligence community called the "duty to warn."

The "duty to warn" is a years-old executive order that obliges U.S. intelligence officials to lean toward sharing knowledge of a threat if conditions allow -- even if the apparent targets are adversaries.

"We had a duty to warn them of information that we had, clearly that they didn't have. We did that," he said.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Russian Service and Current Time

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-crocus-attack-putin-- radical-islamists-ukraine/32877769.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during talks with Namibian Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Peya Mushelenga, Moscow, March 26, 2024

26 March 2024 13:10

553-26-03-2024



Mr Minister,

Friends,

Welcome to Moscow. You have visited Russia many times while holding various posts, but this is your first time here as Foreign Minister. As far as I know, this is one of your first trips in this capacity. We can see a special meaning in your decision to come to Moscow and in what Namibia thinks about developing its partnership with Russia. I can assure you that this feeling is shared.

You have a busy programme, including a meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, which you will co-chair with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Trutnev.

Your predecessor, Ms Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, has become Vice President of Namibia. When you return home, please convey to her my warmest greetings and heartfelt wishes for new successes.

On March 21, Namibia celebrated Independence Day. President of Russia Vladimir Putin sent a message of greetings to President Nangolo Mbumba. I would like to echo these greetings to your state and people and the wishes for new achievements.

We express our sincere gratitude for the condolences conveyed by President Nangolo Mbumba in connection with the terrible terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall on March 22. We appreciate this approach of our friends. I would like to personally thank you for the sympathy and support that you expressed by making an entry in the Book of Condolences opened at the Russian Foreign Ministry.

The friendly feelings between our nations provide a firm foundation for the development of relations in all areas. I hope that today we will discuss what additional steps our foreign ministries can take to further promote these relations.



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Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of the Federative Republic of Brazil Mauro Vieira

26 March 2024 17:42

557-26-03-2024

On March 26, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke by telephone with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira.

Mr Vieira expressed solidarity with the Russian people over the terrorist attack at the Crocus City Hall concert venue. He conveyed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and wished an early recovery to the injured.

The ministers resolutely condemned terrorism in all forms and manifestations.

They exchanged views on the situation in the Palestinian territories in the context of UN Security Council Resolution 2728 of March 25, and the preparations for the upcoming BRICS and G20 summits in Russia and Brazil, respectively.

The ministers also reviewed a number of bilateral issues.





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Iran Confirms Death Of IRGC Quds Force Officer In Strikes On Syria

By RFE/RL March 26, 2024

Iran has confirmed the death of a member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) in Syria following air strikes blamed on Israel.

The official IRNA news agency on March 26 said Behruz Vahedi, a member of the IRGC's expeditionary wing, the Quds Force, had been killed in alleged Israeli air strikes on Deir al-Zor in eastern Syria.

Media close to the Syrian government have accused the United States of carrying out the strikes. Neither the United States nor Israel has commented.

Earlier, the U.K.-based Syrian Observatory For Human Rights said 13 people were killed in the attack, including 12 non-Syrian members of the IRGC.

At least 11 Iranian members of the IRGC have been killed in suspected Israeli strikes on Syria and Lebanon since the start of the war in Gaza in October.

Israel launched a deadly offensive against the Palestinian enclave in response to a multipronged attack by Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist group by the United States and European Union. Around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed in the Hamas attack inside Israel, while more than 250 were taken hostage and brought back to Gaza.

Iran's regional allies -- the so-called axis of resistance -- have been targeting Israeli and U.S. interests in the Middle East following Israel's attack on Gaza. However, armed groups have scaled back their attacks on American bases following a series of U.S. strikes in February.

The strikes on Syria came hours before Hamas's political bureau chief, Ismail Haniyeh, landed in Tehran for meetings with Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He told a news conference that a March 25 UN Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire in Gaza showed that Israel was experiencing "unprecedented political isolation."

The IRGC stepped in to defend President Bashar al-Assad in 2013 when his grip on power was challenged during the Syrian civil war. Hundreds of IRGC commanders and officers, described by Tehran as "military advisers" are believed to be present in Syria. Iran maintains a large network of militias in the Arab country, consisting mostly of Shi'ite Afghan and Pakistani fighters.

With reporting by AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-confirms-death-of-irgc-quds- force-officer-in-strikes-on-syria/32878384.html

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Treasury Sanctions Financial Facilitators and Illicit Drug Traffickers Supporting the Syrian Regime

U.S. Department of the Treasury

March 26, 2024

WASHINGTON -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned 11 individuals and entities supporting the regime of Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad through the facilitation of illicit financial transfers and trafficking of illegal drugs, as well as the extraction and export of Syrian commodities.A Syria has become the leading producer and exporter of Captagon, a highly addictive amphetamine-type stimulant trafficked illegally throughout the Middle East and Europe.A

"The Assad regime continues to employ a variety of schemes to evade sanctions and sustain its longstanding campaign of repression against its own citizens, including trafficking in illegal drugs, exploiting currency exchanges, and leveraging seemingly legitimate businesses," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. "The United States remains committed to holding accountable those who seek to support this illicit financial activity at the expense ofA the Syrian people."

OFAC is undertaking today's designations pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13582 of August 17, 2011, "Blocking Property of the Government of Syria and Prohibiting Certain Actions With Respect to Syria." Additionally, several persons sanctioned today are also being designated pursuant to the Caesar Syrian Civilian Protection Act of 2019 ("Caesar Act"), which includes secondary sanctions for anyone found to knowingly provide significant support to the Government of Syria. The revenue from the illicit Captagon trade has become a major source of income for the Assad regime, the Syrian armed forces, and Syrian paramilitary forces. The Assad regime also derives significant profits from extractive industries with the help of foreign entities. Additionally, the Syrian regime continues to rely on Syrian money service businesses to circumvent sanctions and carry out financial transfers and currency exchange on its behalf.

CAPTAGON TRAFFICKING

Syrian national Taher al-KayaliA (al-Kayali) owns and operates Syria-based Neptunus LLCA (Neptunus), a company al-Kayali has used to purchase vessels that were then used to smuggle Captagon and hashish, both well-known funding sources for the Assad regime. Al-Kayali used Neptunus to purchase the cargo ship Noka, which was carrying over $100 million worth of Captagon and hashish when it was intercepted in 2018 by Greek authorities on its way from the Syrian port of Lattakia to eastern Libya. Al-Kayali has also aided Captagon traffickers in their attempts to distribute drugs to Europe by way of Greece and Italy.

OFAC is designating Al-Kayali pursuant to E.O. 13582 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, the government of Syria. OFAC is designating Neptunus pursuant to E.O.A 13582 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Al-Kayali.

Mahmoud Abulilah Al-DjA (Al-Dj) was responsible for leading the operations behind multiple Captagon shipments, including the Noka shipment seized by Greek authorities and three shipments that were seized in Libya. Al-Dj also serves as the exclusive agent for designated Syrian airline Cham Wings in Libya. Al-Dj used his Syria-based company Al-Ta'ir Company (Al-Ta'ir) to receive cargo tied to Captagon shipments and open a major smuggling line linking Lattakia to Benghazi, which has resulted in huge profits for Captagon traffickers. Al-Dj registered an additional company, FreeBird Travel and Tourism (FreeBird), after he was convicted for drug smuggling in Libya and Al-Ta'ir became subject to legal prosecution for human trafficking and drug smuggling.

OFAC is designating Al-Dj pursuant to E.O. 13582 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, the government of Syria. OFAC is designating Al-Ta'ir and FreeBird pursuant to E.O. 13582 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Al-Dj.

Today's Captagon-related designations were coordinated closely with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

SYRIAN REGIME SANCTIONS EVASION

Syria-based Maya Exchange Company (Maya), alongside previously sanctioned Syrian exchanges Al-Fadel Exchange and Al-Adham Exchange, facilitated millions of dollars of illicit transactions, foreign currency transfers, and sanctions evasion schemes for the benefit of the Syrian government. In mid-2023, Maya agreed to assist Aleksey MakarovA (Makarov), the Vice President of sanctioned Russian Financial Corporation Bank (RFC Bank), and Muhammad 'Ali Al-MinalaA (Al-Minala) of theA Central Bank of Syria (CBoS), which has also been sanctioned by the United States, with making payments to a Jordanian beneficiary and thereby obfuscating Russian involvement in the transactions. Al-Minala serves as the Head of the Foreign Operations and Communications Department within the Banking Operations Directorate at CBoS and has collaborated with Makarov on additional foreign currency transfers and sanctions evasion schemes on multiple occasions, ultimately for the benefit of CBoS.

OFAC is designating Maya and Makarov pursuant to E.O. 13582 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, CBoS. OFAC is designating Al-Minala pursuant to E.O. 13582 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, CBoS. OFAC is also designating Maya and Makarov pursuant to the Caesar Act for being foreign persons that knowingly provided significant financial, material, or technological support to, or knowingly engaged in a significant transaction with, the Government of Syria.

MINING EXPORTS

In 2018, Limited Liability Company "STG Logistic" (STG Logistic) won and signed a 50-year contract with the government of Syria, granting it rights to 70 percent of sales revenue from Syrian mines near Palmyra, Syria. STG Logistic shares personnel and offices with another OFAC-designated company, and since signing the deal, STG Logistic's sales to overseas buyers have led to tens of millions of dollars' worth of revenue for the Government of Syria. United ArabEmirates- and Switzerland-based Grains Middle East Trading DWC-LLC (Grains Middle East Trading) has served as an intermediary for STG Logistic in many shipments of Syrian commodities to multiple overseas buyers, each shipment worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Yafi David is the chief executive officer of Grains Middle East Trading.

OFAC is designating STG Logistic pursuant to E.O. 13582 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of the Government of Syria. OFAC is also designating STG Logistic pursuant to the Caesar Act for being a foreign person that knowingly provided significant financial, material, or technological support to, or knowingly engaged in a significant transaction with, the Government of Syria. OFAC is designating Grains Middle East Trading pursuant to E.O. 13582 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of STG Logistic and Yafi David pursuant to E.O.A 13582 for acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Grains Middle East Trading.

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.A

In addition, financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions or activities with the sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctions or be subject to an enforcement action. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.A

The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the SDN List, but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer toA OFAC's Frequently Asked Question 897 here. For detailed information onA the process to submit a request for removal from an OFAC sanctions list, please click here.

Click here for more information on the individuals and entities designated today.

###

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ISIL growing stronger in Syria, as war enters its thirteenth year

26 March 2024 - When a group linked to the ISIL terror organization claimed responsibility for the deadly attack on a Moscow concert hall on 22 March, one of the pretexts reportedly given for the killings was Russia's engagement in the Syrian civil war, which has turned into a proxy war involving several foreign powers.

This was a reminder of the ongoing impact of a conflict which has now dragged on for more than 12 years and rarely makes headlines, even though it continues to have a devastating effect on the civilian population.

In early March, the United Nations Syria Commission of Inquiry released a report which detailed an escalation of fighting, attacks on civilians and infrastructure that could amount to war crimes, and a humanitarian crisis. Ninety per cent of the population is living in poverty.

Hanny Megally is the Deputy Director and Senior Fellow at New York University's Center on International Cooperation, and he's been a member of the Commission since 2017. He told UN News that, although it has been five years since ISIL last held territory in Syria, the group continues to gain strength.

Hanny Megally The country is crumbling, after 13 years of conflict, and some groups that we thought were defeated are coming back. And, in the meantime, none of the root causes of the conflict have been dealt with. ISIL has been growing in strength in Syria and, this year alone, there have already been more than 35 attacks.

UN News Gaza has dominated the headlines ever since the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023, but just two days before that, on 5 October there was a very significant attack in the Syrian city of Homs, which triggered the current escalation of violence.

Hanny Megally It was an attack on a ceremony at the military academy, attended by some senior representatives of the state. Recently graduated cadets were there with their families. Around 63 were killed and hundreds injured. The response from the Syrian state, with the help of the Russian airforce, was to hit over 2,300 targets within days, killing hundreds, mostly civilians, and displacing around 150,000 people.

UN News The scale of activity by foreign powers detailed in your report is striking.

Hanny Megally You have Russia and Iran supporting the government; the United States and coalition partners essentially shoring up the autonomous Kurdish authority in the northeast; Turkey in the northwest supporting armed opposition groups; Israel targeting what they perceive to be pro-Iranian forces on the ground; and Jordan going after drug smugglers in the south.

UN News Has Syria has become the location for a series of overlapping proxy wars?

Hanny Megally I think it has. The sad thing is that the involvement of these states has prolonged the conflict. In essence, Syria has become a place where they can test out weapons, use old weapons that they no longer need to keep, and hit each other in way that would be much more serious if they were attacking each other directly.

UN News You also say that the events in Gaza [the 7 October 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel, and Israel's subsequent assault on the Palestinian occupied territory] have elevated the risks of the conflict spreading further.

Hanny Megally We have seen a big escalation over the last six months. Turkey is going after Kurdish PKK fighters, and they're hitting infrastructure like power stations and water plants that are essential for the survival of the civilian population. In one attack more than a million people were without water for several days. There are also skirmishes between groups, whether in the Kurdish controlled areas with Arab tribes, or in the north, where groups supported by Turkey are beginning to fight amongst themselves.

UN News 13 million Syrians have been forced to leave their homes. How would you describe the effect the conflict has had on the civilian population?

Hanny Megally Consider 13 years of barrel bomb bombardments and fighting on the ground, and the destruction of much of the infrastructure, which is not being rebuilt because sanctions imposed by a number of states are preventing necessary materials from coming into the country.

Half of the hospitals have been destroyed and there's been an exodus of medical staff. The economy is plummeting and people are voting with their feet and leaving the country.

UN News According to media reports, ISIL actually controls aspects of life in camps for displaced people in Syria [Al Hawl and Al Rawj], and there seems to be no distinction between people who are ISIL sympathizers and people who have been victims of ISIL.

Hanny Megally After the military defeat of ISIL, the Syrian Democratic Forces took around 9,000 men who were considered to be fighters, or to have had connections with ISIL, into detention, along with their families. At one point the numbers in the camps rose to over 70,000 and now it's around 47,000.

Those who have been there say the conditions are the worst they've ever seen. These are not refugee camps, they're more like prisons, but they are guarded from the outside, which has allowed extremist elements to take control.

At the moment, around 30,000 children are living in these camps, and they're in legal limbo. When they reach puberty, they are considered to be have reached fighting age or be a risk to others, and they are removed from the camps.

Imagine what this is like: you're in your teens and you're removed from your mother. You're put in a rehabilitation centre and you have no idea what happens next. When you reach 18, they may move you to a prison with adults that are considered fighters or supporters of ISIL. It's not a solution, and it's creating a problem which will come back to haunt us, in terms of being a breeding ground for terrorism.

UN News You've been cataloguing the suffering of Syrians for many years. Given everything you've seen, is there any hope for Syria?

Hanny Megally Part of the problem is the involvement of the foreign armies in Syria. The outside interference is not bringing solutions. It's prolonging the situation, creating a stalemate and a never-ending cycle of violence. If everybody left, the Syrians would likely sort the problems out themselves.

UN News What's the next step for the commission?

Hanny Megally We're asking the world not to forget about Syria, because it risks being left behind at a point where violence is back on the increase. We're seeing ISIL back on the rise, a weakened state that's essentially losing control, even if it controls more territory, delegating power to non-state actors. Syria needs help now and, above all, a ceasefire.

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PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Mar. 25, 2024

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2024/03/25

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

1.Dateis

6 to 6 a.m. (UTC+8) Sunday to Monday, Mar. 24-25

2.PLA activitiesis

5 PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 1 of the aircraft 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.

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PM announces national endeavour to strengthen the UK's nuclear deterrent

The Prime Minister will today [Monday 25th] declare a 'national endeavour' to secure the future of the UK's thriving defence and civil nuclear industry.

24 March 2024

Prime Minister to announce public and private investment to reinforce the nuclear workforce and support 40,000 expected new jobs

Government will commit more than A200m over the next decade to ensure Barrow thrives as the home of UK nuclearA submarine-building

Defence Secretary will publish flagship Defence Nuclear Enterprise Command Paper later today to set out full scale of the UK's national nuclear endeavour

UK's energy security and national security depend on nuclear - and the industry needs more skilled British workers

The Prime Minister will today [Monday 25th] declare a 'national endeavour' to secure the future of the UK's thriving defence and civil nuclear industry, as he visits Barrow-in-Furness and announces a significant package of investment in skills, jobs and communities.A

Domestic nuclear capability is vital to our national defence and energy security, underpinning our nuclear deterrent and securing cheaper, more reliable energy for UK consumers. The nuclear industry is growing rapidly, requiring 50% more highly skilled workers in the next ten years - and we need to train a new generation of British talent.A

The Government is partnering with industry, including BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, EDF and Babcock, to invest at least A763 million by 2030 in skills, jobs and education. The investment will create more than 8,000 career opportunities to help the sector fill 40,000 new jobs by the end of the decade - and will support plans to double the number of nuclear apprentices and graduates and quadruple the number of specialist science and nuclear fission PhDs.

As the home of the UK's Astute-class nuclear submarines - the most advanced attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy - and the new Dreadnought programme and UK AUKUS submarine production, the Cumbrian town of Barrow-in-Furness is also central to the UK's defence nuclear ambitions.A The Prime Minister will therefore announce today the creation of a Barrow Transformation Fund, with the Government committing an immediate A20 million and a further minimum of A20 million a year over the next 10 years to make Barrow an even more attractive place to live, work, and build a nuclear career.A

Building on these new investments, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps will later today publish the Government's Defence Nuclear Enterprise Command Paper, setting out for the first time the full breadth of activity to sustain andA modernise the UK's continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent - a cornerstone of national and global security for more than 55 years.A

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:A

Safeguarding the future of our nuclear deterrent and nuclear energy industry is a critical national endeavour.A

In a more dangerous and contested world, the UK's continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent is more vital than ever. And nuclear delivers cheaper, cleaner home-grown energy for consumers.A

That's why we are investing in Barrow, the home of UK submarines, and in the jobs and skills of the future in the thriving British nuclear industry. Today we usher in the next generation of our nuclear enterprise, which will keep us safe, keep our energy secure, and keep our bills down for good.

The Defence Command Paper will establish the UK's nuclear programme as a critical 'National Endeavour' which is vital for our long-term security and prosperity.

It is expected to set out how the UK will deliver the capabilities necessary to maintain our independent nuclear deterrent - including progressing plans to bring new Dreadnought Class submarines into service in the early 2030s, deepening cooperation with our partners under the flagship AUKUS agreement and upgrading key infrastructure - supported by an additional A3 billion in funding for our nuclear enterprise announced last year.

The UK's ambitious defence plans are underpinned by major new investment in Barrow. To unlock Barrow's huge potential and support a growing workforce, the Government will commit an initial A20 million forimmediate projects, including supporting people towards work, community projects and completing construction on the A595 Grizebeck Bypass, and a minimum of A20 million a year over 10 years to improve health outcomes, build more homes, develop the transport network and support local schools.A

The Barrow Transformation Fund will be managed by the Barrow Delivery Board in collaboration with local leaders, who will allocate funding to areas of greatest need.

Charles Woodburn, BAE Systems Chief Executive and member of the Nuclear Skills Executive Council said:A

Barrow is at the heart of the UK's submarine enterprise and as the custodian of our submarine design and build capability, we're incredibly proud of the role we play in the Astute, Dreadnought and now SSN-AUKUS programmes.

Today's announcement reinforces the importance of continued investment in critical nuclear skills at a time of significant growth for our submarines business and our 13,500 employees.

The long-term vision set out in the command paper is hugely welcome and will support the necessary infrastructure development and recruitment required for the delivery of these important national security programmes.

David Lockwood, CEO Babcock International and member of the Nuclear Skills Executive Council said:

This is a fantastic opportunity for the UK to deliver a stronger nuclear industry that will contribute to the resilience of the UK's independent deterrent and will support the UK's energy security ambitions and net zero targets. As well as providing bed-rock support for the ambitious development required across industry and government for the AUKUS programme.A A

Babcock is proud of the leading role it is taking in driving forward initiatives to retain and grow the critical mass of nuclear skills we need today and tomorrow.A We have a keen focus on our major nuclear sites in the South West of England and in Scotland and are determined to leverage the benefits of the NNSPS, with our customers and other industry partners, across the broader communities we serve.

Simone Rossi, CEO EDF in the UK and member of the Nuclear Skills Executive Council said:

EDF welcomes the joint commitments announced today and looks forward to working with Government and industry to help deliver the great opportunities for people who choose to work in the nuclear sector.

EDF has been at the heart of the UK's nuclear energy sector for over 15 years and in 2024 is hiring a further 1,000 people into its UK nuclear family - in operations, construction, engineering support and many other exciting roles. The majority of these will be apprentices and graduates, as well as those with relevant skills from other industries.A

As we have learned in recent years there is an urgent need to attract, train and inspire the next generation of people who can design, build, operate and decommission existing and new nuclear facilities. A We are excited to be part of this national endeavour.

A Steve Carlier, President at Rolls-Royce Submarines and member of the Nuclear Skills Executive Council said:

As a proud member of the Nuclear Skills Council and an important partner in the Defence Nuclear Enterprise, we welcome news that the UK is going to go even further in its mission to meet the growing demand for nuclear expertise. It is an exciting and fascinating time for the industry as both civil and defence organisations collaborate to ensure we all have a strong and sustainable pipeline of talent coming into the world of nuclear.

Nuclear has the power to protect and help meet the growing demand for clean energy, so news of the UK's commitment to this unique industry is a sign of its importance. From opening our Nuclear Skills Academy, which welcomes 200 apprentices every year for at least the next decade, and our recently announced site expansion work, which is creating over 1,000 new highly-skilled jobs in Derby, to new satellite offices creating almost 300 jobs in Glasgow and Cardiff, Rolls-Royce is playing a pivotal role in supporting this national endeavour."A

As part of today's visit, the Prime Minister is expected to meet apprentices working on the Royal Navy's cutting-edge nuclear submarines. The UK's nuclear industry is going through an unprecedented period of growth, driven by the Government's ambitious nuclear energy targets, and is expected to need 123,000 people by 2030.

The investment in nuclear skills - which includes A350 million from the Government and more than A400m from industry - will create some 5,000 new apprenticeships in the next four years. It will also drive private investment and create job opportunities for everyone from specialist scientists and engineers, to welders and electricians, to project managers and Royal Navy submariners.A

This follows the major reforms and A60 million worth of investment outlined by the Prime Minister following the Spring Budget to enable 20,000 more apprenticeships and slash unnecessary regulatory burdens.

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National endeavour launched as UK outlines commitment to nuclear deterrent

New Government Command Paper sets out full scale of the UK's national nuclear endeavour.

25 March 2024

The approach to investing in and maintaining the UK's nuclear deterrent has been unveiled by Defence Secretary Grant Shapps for the first time today.A

The Defence Nuclear Command Paper has been published today following the Prime Minister declaring a 'national endeavour' to secure the future of the UK's thriving defence nuclear industry and backed by more than A200 million of Government funding, investing in the future of the UK's home of submarine building, Barrow-in-Furness.A

The Prime Minister's announcement also included investments in nuclear skills, which will help create more than 5,000 new apprenticeships in the next four years as part of a new nuclear skills plan, and quadruple PhDs in the nuclear sector. It is backed by a total of at least A763 million investment through a partnership between the Government and industry, including BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, EDF and Babcock.A The benefit of this investment will be felt from the Naval Base on the Clyde to the nuclear laboratories of AWE in Aldermaston.

It will also drive private investment and create thousands of job opportunities to help keep the nation safe, from specialist scientists and engineers to welders and electricians, to project managers and Royal Navy submariners.A A

The publication of the Command Paper sets out the full spectrum of major programmes and relationships with industry and international partners and comes as the Defence Secretary says that maintaining the UK's nuclear deterrent is as important now as it has ever been, in an increasingly contested and volatile world.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:A

The threats facing the UK and our allies are increasing in scale, complexity and diversity, which is why our nuclear deterrent is as important now as it has ever been.aaA This Government has always been unequivocal in its support to the UK's nuclear deterrence, which is foundational to our national security, but also brings huge employment and skills opportunities being realised right now across the country.

At the last spending review, in 2021, the Ministry of Defence received a A24 billion cash increase - the largest sustained increase since the end of the cold war. Since then, the department has invested an extra A5 billion in increasing stockpiles and improving the sustainability of our defence nuclear enterprise.A This Defence Nuclear Command Paper will be the first step in a long-term approach, reaffirming the Government's unwavering commitment to the nuclear deterrent.A

The Defence Nuclear Command Paper sets out how the Government will continue to:aA

Sustain the UK's nuclear deterrent for as long as it is required -amaintaining the current in-service Vanguard fleet and sovereign warhead, while progressing with the new Dreadnought Class submarines, bringing them into service in the early 2030s, as well as developing a new replacement sovereign warhead.

Sustain the UK's fleet of nuclear powered, conventionally armed, submarines - complete the build of the Astute class and design the next generation SSN-AUKUS fleet. This involves deep collaboration with our US and Australian partners under the ground-breaking AUKUS trilateral partnership.

Recruit the skills of the future - with a clear plan to expand the nuclear workforce to meet our ambitions in this growing sector and develop targeted interventions to ensure we have the specialist skills required now and in future through a new nuclear skills plan.

Renew and upgrade key infrastructure and Naval Bases - with an additional A3 billion invested across the Defence Nuclear Enterprise to 2024/25, supporting areas such as the construction of industrial infrastructure at Barrow, Derby and at the Atomic Weapons Establishment, as well as at His Majesty's Naval Bases.

Remain fully committed to fulfilling our international obligations - there is no change to our commitment to the long-term goal of a world without nuclear weapons, and our non-proliferation and Treaty obligations.

The Prime Minister has also today announced a "Plan for Barrow" as a further part of this national endeavour, a new partnership between national and local government, BAE Systems and the local community, that will oversee investment and development in Barrow-in-Furness, the home of submarine building in the UK.A A A

This is backed by a Barrow Transformation Fund, with the Government committingA an immediate A20 million and a further minimum of A20 million a year over the next 10 years to make the area an even more attractive place to live, work, and build a nuclear career.A A

Chief of Defence Nuclear, Madelaine McTernan CB, said:aA

The work of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise is a critical national endeavour.A A The Command Paper sets how, working in partnership with industry and our allies, we draw on the dedication of thousands of people across the country to deliver some of the most complex programmes and keep the nation safe.

First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sir Ben Key KCB CBE ADC said:

For almost 55 years the Royal Navy has operated the submarines carrying the UK's independent nuclear deterrent.A The men and women onboard, and thousands across the country, are fundamental in this mission to protect the United Kingdom and our NATO allies.A Through the work of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise, the Royal Navy is benefitting from the National Endeavour that is underway to deliver the UK's nuclear deterrent for the next generation and beyond.

The UK is investing to deliver the new Dreadnought Class ballistic nuclear submarines to take over from the current Vanguard Class in the early 2030s and is developing a replacement UK sovereign warhead.aaA A

Last week, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps visited Australia for discussions surrounding the ongoing AUKUS partnership, which provides international collaboration on defence nuclear projects. It was recently announced that Australia is also investing in Rolls-Royce, Derby, where the nuclear propulsion plants will be manufactured. The AUKUS programme, first announced in 2021, will support more than 21,000 jobs in the UK at its peak - concentrated in Barrow-in-Furness and Derby.

The UK's submarine programme already supports prosperity right across the UK with an estimated 42,000 jobs and a supply chain of 3,000 businesses.A A

Our independent nuclear deterrent has existed for more than 60 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life. It will remain essential for as long as the global security situation demands.

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Royal Navy warships to be boosted with new cutting-edge launchers

UK security will be bolstered through a new contract worth A135 million that will equip the Royal Navy with new decoy launchers to counter missile and drone threats.

26 March 2024

A135 million contract for cutting-edge launchersA for Royal Navy warships

Decoy Launchers provide increased protection for vessels against missile and drone threats, including in the Red Sea

New contract will sustain up to 150 jobs in the South West to help grow the economy.

UK security will be bolstered through a new contract worth A135 million that will equip the Royal Navy with new decoy launchers to counter missile and drone threats, ensuring the long-term availability and resilience of warships. A A A A A

Following the signing of the new contract, Trainable Decoy Launcher technology will increase the protection of Royal Navy ships and sailors, further strengthening the Navy's ability to defend Britain's interests across the world, including the Red Sea. A

It comes as new missile and drone technology creates greater threats to the UK's fleet and the latest decoy launchers will help counter this, providing optimised manoeuvrability that provides the capability to defend warships without the need to alter course.A A

The innovative new system, which uses high-end technology, will be manufactured in Systems Engineering & Assessment Ltd (SEA) site in North Devon and Chess's facilities in Sussex, sustaining up to 150 jobs to help grow the economy. Both SEA and Chess are part of the UK-based Cohort plc group.A

Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge said: A

In a time of global instability, it is vital we protect the Royal Navy in the best possible way to ensure national security.A With recent attacks towards HMS Diamond and HMS Richmond in the Red Sea, it's crucial our sailors have the latest technology to best defend themselves and the fleet. A The new Trainable Decoy Launcher technology is an improvement on speed and agility and highlights more excellent work from UK companies in backing UK defence.

The contract for the Trainable Decoy Launcher will see Type 26 and Type 31 frigates and Type 45 destroyers fitted with a new trainable countermeasure launcher system.A A

Trainable Decoy Launchers use an improved decoy launcher technology and enables a decoy to be rapidly deployed against modern missile threats, without the need to manoeuvre the vessel itself. The launcher fires a range of countermeasures, which includes chaff, flares and 'corner reflector' rounds to target hostile missiles. A

The contract, procured by Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), was awarded to SEA and will see a fully UK-designed and built solution. SEA have partnered with Chess Dynamics and Frazer-Nash Consultancy (FNC) to deliver the product.A A

Richard Flitton, Managing Director of SEA said:A A

Being awarded a contract of this nature demonstrates the Royal Navy's trust in SEA which is based on our proven track record of delivering, upgrading, and sustaining high-end maritime capabilities over many years. The knowledge and maritime domain expertise within our UK-based team has enabled our long-standing partnership with the Royal Navy, and we're delighted that this will allow us to support the UK's defensive capabilities against modern and complex naval threats.

DE&S CEO, Andy Start said:A

This contract is an excellent example of how dedicated DE&S teams work with our partners in industry and across defence to deliver innovative and agile equipment to our Armed Forces that can be upgraded to keep pace with ever-evolving threats.

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In Overnight Drone Strikes, Moscow Keeps Up Assault On Ukraine's Energy Grid

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service and RFE/RL's Russian Service March 25, 2024

Fresh Russian drone strikes continued to target Ukraine's energy and civilian infrastructure on March 25, causing blackouts in several regions and the capital, Kyiv.

Air-raid signals sounded in the morning hours in Kyiv and several large explosions were reported. Officials reported that falling ballistic-missile debris had damaged a residential building and that at least 10 people were injured across the city.

Air-raid warnings were also heard in nine other regions, including Kherson, Mykolayiv, Odesa, and Dnipropetrovsk.

Russian drones overnight struck the southern city of Mykolayiv. The city's mayor, Oleksandr Sienkevych, wrote on Telegram that 11 civilians were injured and several residential buildings damaged by "falling debris."

Vitaliy Kim, head of the Mykolayiv regional military administration, reported that an Iranian-made Shahed drone started a fire at an "energy facility" in the region.

A Russian drone attack against the Black Sea port city of Odesa caused power outages.

"There is damage to the energy infrastructure," wrote Oleh Kiper, head of the regional military administration, on Telegram. "There is no electricity supply to part of Odesa. All emergency services are working."

Russia has intensified its attacks against Ukraine's electrical grid in recent days. On March 23, officials in Kyiv reported that more than 1 million civilians were without power.

Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko told journalists on March 25 that it would cost "billions" to repair the damage, although he did not specify what currency he had in mind. The World Bank estimated earlier this year that the cost of reconstruction in Ukraine would be at least $486 billion.

Volodymyr Kudrytskiy, board chairman of Ukrenerho, said on March 23 that the country had boosted energy imports from Europe to help compensate for the losses.

"In many regions, however, there is quite significant and large-scale damage to the energy infrastructure," he said. "Their scale is caused by the scale of the attacks themselves."

In the Kharkiv region, some 200,000 people were reportedly without power, according to the head of the regional military administration. In Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, the metro system was running with delays due to power shortages, Oleh Synyehubov, head of the regional military administration, reported.

Local authorities in the Kharkiv region have instituted a system of hourly power blackout until at least March 31.

In Russia, the Defense Ministry reported that 11 Ukrainian drones had been "intercepted" over the southern Rostov region.

The governor of the region, Vasily Golubev, posted on Telegram that a fire had broken out at a major power and heating plant in the region after locals had reported explosions in the area. Golubov said there were no casualties and that the cause of the fire was under investigation.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-drones- energy-grid-attacks/32876231.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Now it is extremely important to take care of those who need support; do not leave people alone with their difficulties - address by the President of Ukraine

President of Ukraine

25 March 2024 - 22:51

Dear Ukrainians!

A few summaries for this day.

First. I thank everyone who is working to eliminate the consequences of Russian strikes. Kyiv - ballistic missiles damaged houses and the building of the Academy of Arts today. All the injured have been provided with the necessary assistance. Thank God, there were no children at the academy. The debris clearance lasts all day. Odesa and Mykolaiv - after the attacks on power facilities, the situation is complicated, all the necessary services and repair crews were involved. In the afternoon, there was another strike on Odesa - people were injured. Kharkiv is still in a particularly challenging situation, but every day energy supply to the city is being gradually restored. I am grateful to everyone who works for the city, to everyone who cares about people and helps others. Now it is extremely important to take care of those who need support. And even if people feel uncomfortable asking others for support, please pay attention and support them yourself, do not leave people alone with their difficulties.

Second. Throughout the day, there were reports from the military, intelligence, and the Security Service of Ukraine. Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi, Chief of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine Budanov, Minister of Defense of Ukraine Umerov. We had thorough discussions on how to further reduce Russia's terrorist potential. And we are carefully planning our actions. There was a report by Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service Lytvynenko on the current threats. There was also the usual weekly report by Head of the Security Service Maliuk on the results of the SSU over the past week and the planning of tasks for this week. Of course, today I congratulated General Maliuk and the entire staff of the Security Service of Ukraine on their professional day. All of us in our country should be grateful to the combat-ready Security Service of Ukraine, which is truly inflicting significant damage on the enemy and achieving the goals that Ukraine really needs, along with all other elements of the Defense and Security Forces. I am grateful to every SSU warrior, to everyone in the Security Service who works really effectively for the sake of Ukraine.

Third. Today, I took part in an iftar - a special dinner that takes place during the month of Ramadan. Together with representatives of the Ukrainian Muslim community, Muslim warriors, representatives of the diplomatic corps from the countries of the global Muslim community, and, of course, representatives of the Crimean Tatar people, we thanked everyone who cares about Ukraine and helps us. We honored our warriors. And with everyone who had the honor to share the iftar today, we wished a fair and just peace for Ukraine and for all nations who, just like us, cherish life.

And one more thing. Today, Putin was talking to himself again, and it was again broadcast on television. Again, he accuses Ukraine. A sick and cynical creature. Everyone is a terrorist to him, except for himself, although he has been fueled by terror for two decades already. He is the biggest opening for terror. He and his special services. And when he is gone, the demand for terror and violence will disappear with him, because it is his demand. No one else's.

I thank everyone who protects people and values life! I thank everyone who stands with Ukraine!

Glory to Ukraine!





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President on the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of the Security Service: Over the years of war, the SSU has become a combat-ready and efficient special service that Ukraine needs

President of Ukraine

25 March 2024 - 15:05

On the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of the establishment of the Security Service of Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated the SSU employees on their professional holiday, presented state awards, decorations and conferred military ranks.

The Head of State was shown modern samples of military and special equipment, including Sea Baby drones used by the Security Service. The President thanked the SSU employees for their professional work.

"Over the years of war, the SSU has become a truly combat-ready, and most importantly, efficient special service, which is exactly what our state needs to protect itself from the enemy and to take active steps to reduce the potential of Russian aggression. You find effective methods of countering the enemy. Not all of your actions against the occupier can be discussed openly and publicly now, but all of your actions serve Ukraine, strengthen it and make us proud of Ukraine," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

He noted the long range and precision of both naval and aerial Ukrainian drones.

The Head of State expressed gratitude to the SSU for protecting the country from collaborators, spotters and other traitors, as well as for facilitating the investigation of Russia's war crimes.

"When you are effective in these investigations, justice for Ukraine and Ukrainians becomes closer," the President noted.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine now expects even greater efficiency from the Security Service.

"Russian warships no longer have a safe place in the western part of the Black Sea and near our Crimea, but they must lose the opportunity to operate in the eastern part of the Black Sea as well. Every invader already understands perfectly that they cannot feel safe anywhere on the Ukrainian land, but they must lose even more logistics infrastructure, headquarters, depots - more material basis of this war," the Head of State emphasized.

He emphasized that the Special Forces of the Centre of Special Operations "A" and the SSU counterintelligence effectively destroy Russian equipment and occupiers, adjust Ukrainian artillery strikes, cover the defenders with sniper fire and provide the Defense Forces with vitally necessary intelligence data.

"May your successes help Ukraine save even more lives and expedite our victory," the President said.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy also noted the SSU's actions in the area of cyber defense and called for increasing Ukraine's strike potential in cyberspace.

The attendees observed a minute of silence in memory of the SSU warriors who gave their lives for the sake of Ukraine.

He also presented state awards to SSU employees. In particular, the Head of State conferred the title of Hero of Ukraine and handed over the Order of the Golden Star to one of them.

Another 10 SSU officers received the Orders of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, III class, the Orders of Merit, III class, the Orders "For Courage", I and III classes, and the medal "For Military Service to Ukraine".

In addition, Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented the battle flag of the SSU CI Department and the honorary award "For Courage and Valor" to the SSU Military Counterintelligence Department.

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Russian Missile Attack Injures 10 in Kyiv

By VOA News March 25, 2024

Russian airstrikes pummeled Kyiv for the third time in five days Monday, as Moscow intensified its aerial bombardment of Ukrainian cities.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said falling debris from destroyed missiles demolished a non-residential building and damaged windows at nearby residential buildings. At least 10 people were injured across the city.

The side of the demolished building, which held an art academy's gym and exhibition hall, was reduced to rubble in an area packed with high-rise apartment blocks.

Schoolchildren had to run for cover during the assault, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said, and U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink reported loud explosions in the Ukrainian capital.

"Over the last 5 days, Russia has launched hundreds of missiles and drones against a sovereign country," Brink posted on social media. "Ukraine needs our assistance now. There is not a moment to lose."

The Ukrainian air force said Monday it shot down two ballistic missiles fired from the occupied Crimean Peninsula, more than 500 km (310 miles) away.

After Monday's attack, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Ukraine's State Emergency Service rescuers, police, utility workers, and all other services involved in rescue and recovery of civilians. He also renewed his appeal for Western partners to provide more air defense systems to protect against Russia's "unrelenting attacks."

"We reiterate that Ukraine requires more air defense systems, which provide safety for our cities and save lives. All of us who respect and protect life must put an end to this terror," Zelenskyy wrote on a post on the social platform X formerly Twitter.

The bombardment of Kyiv came three days after a terrorist attack on a concert hall outside Moscow that killed more than 130 people.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has tried to link the attack on Crocus Concert Hall to Ukraine, even though an affiliate of the Islamic State group claimed responsibility and Ukraine has denied having anything to do with the attack.

In a statement Sunday, leaders of Catholic religious organizations in the United States denounced Russia's attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure calling them "war crimes."

"We beseech the religious leaders of Russia, especially Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church, to stop supporting the Russian invasion of Ukraine and to urge President Putin to halt terror attacks aimed at innocent civilians. We likewise urge our government and civic authorities to utilize all available just means to protect Ukraine and its people from this brutal aggression," the statement read.

Since last Monday, Russia has used nearly 190 missiles of various types, almost 140 'Shahed' drones and almost 700 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine, according to Zelenskyy in his Sunday video address. "There has not been a single week in the more than two years of this war when Russia refrained from terror," he said.

On Friday, Russia unleashed a massive attack against Ukraine's energy sector, describing the assault as retaliation for Ukraine's recent strikes on Russian soil.

Ukraine's continuous shelling on the Russian border region of Belgorod have forced Russia to plan evacuating about 9,000 children from the border region, the region's governor Vyacheslev Gladkov said Tuesday.

The children will be moved farther east of Belgorod, away from the Ukraine border, Gladkov said.

His announcement came a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin said the Kremlin wants to create a buffer zone to help protect border regions from long-range Ukrainian strikes and cross-border raids more than two years into the war.

Russia also said Monday it thwarted a Ukrainian drone attack in the Rostov area of southwestern Russia, while a fire at a power plant in the region disrupted service.

The Russian defense ministry said its air defenses shot down all 11 Ukrainian drones involved in the attack.

Vasily Golubev, the regional governor in Rostov, said on Telegram there was a fire at the Novocherkassk power plant, causing two of its power units to be temporarily taken out of operation.

Russian ambassador - Poland

The Russian ambassador did not come to the foreign ministry in Warsaw despite being summoned to do so, a Polish spokesperson said on Monday, after a Russian missile flew into Poland's airspace.

Russia violated Poland's airspace early on Sunday with a cruise missile launched at targets in western Ukraine, Poland's armed forces said.

"The ambassador of the Russian Federation... did not attend the foreign ministry today to explain the incident concerning the Russian cruise missile that violated Polish airspace on March 24," foreign ministry spokesperson Pawel Wronski told reporters.

Russia's ambassador to Poland, Sergei Andreyev, told state-run RIA Novosti that he did not visit the foreign ministry, where he had been invited to discuss the "missile incident," because the Polish side did not provide evidence of any airspace violation.

Poland's army said its military radar systems recorded the missile entering the country's airspace for 39 seconds on Sunday, encroaching 2 kilometers into Polish territory before returning to Ukraine.

Some information for this report was provided by Reuters, The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse.

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Two years of war: Council of Europe Congress calls for greater support to Ukraine

Council of Europe

Congress

Strasbourg

26 March 2024

The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe adopted on 26 March 2024 a Declaration on thesecond anniversary of the Russian Federation's war against Ukraine, presented by Martine Dieschburg-Nickels (Luxembourg, L, ILDG) and Gunn-Marit Helgesen (Norway, R, EPP/CCE).

The Congress reiterated its condemnation of the ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine and reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders.

In the two years since it was launched, this brutal war has caused the loss of tens of thousands of innocent lives as well as massive destruction throughout Ukraine, forcing millions of people to flee their homes and spreading violence and disinformation, with dramatic long-term repercussions on cities and communities in Ukraine and worldwide.

The Congress highlighted the critical importance of seeking justice for victims and holding Russia accountable and welcomed the establishment of the Register of Damage for Ukraine, whose action it will support by making sure claims can be taken swiftly including through local and regional authorities.

In its Declaration, the Congress again joined the international community's call for the Russian Federation to end its unjustified and unprovoked war against Ukraine and withdraw its troops from the territory of Ukraine immediately, fully and unconditionally, and condemned the horrific war crimes as well as acts of possible genocide that have been committed by Russian forces.

The Congress deplored in particular the impact of the war on the children of Ukraine, including those who have been internally displaced, forced to flee Ukraine, separated from their families and/or forcibly deported by the Russian authorities, and called on local and regional authorities where these children are presently living to take comprehensive action to protect them.

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Increased support for the defence of Ukraine

Government of Iceland

26 March 2024

Ministry for Foreign Affairs

Iceland will support the Czech initiative to provide ammunition for Ukraine and fund equipment for women in the Ukrainian military. Ukraine is facing severe shortage of artillery shells, and the Czech-led initiative will help finance the delivery of ammunition to Ukraine, a vital part for Ukraine's defence. Approximately two million euros are expected to be spent on the project by Iceland.

"It is crucial to continue supporting Ukraine vigorously, not only to defend the people of Ukraine but also to uphold international laws in a broader context and our own security interests. Iceland's long-term policy on support for Ukraine, currently under parliamentary discussion, will solidify this support in the long term, while simultaneously allowing us to move swiftly and support initiatives of this nature," says Minister for Foreign Affairs, Bjarni Benediktsson.

Furthermore, Iceland will support the procurement of equipment for women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The proportion of women in the armed forces has increased significantly in recent years, especially since the full-scale Russian invasion started. To meet the needs of female soldiers Iceland will provide 75 million ISK to procure uniforms, bulletproof vests, medical, and hygiene supplies.

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Zelenskiy Replaces National Security And Defense Council Secretary In Latest Personnel Shake-Up

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service March 26, 2024

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on March 26 dismissed Oleksiy Danilov from the post of secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, replacing him with Oleksandr Lytvynenko, who has served as Ukraine's foreign intelligence chief.

The personnel change was announced in two decrees posted on the Ukrainian president's website. Zelenskiy had not indicated he was planning any changes, and no reason was given for Danilov's dismissal. Danilov, who served as secretary of the National Security and Defense Council since October 2019, did not publicly comment.

The country's top political, security, and defense chiefs comprise the council, which has a coordinating role on issues of national security and defense under the president.

Zelenskiy's decrees named Oleh Ivashchenko, a deputy chief of the Ukrainian military spy agency, as the new foreign intelligence chief.

The personnel change comes as Ukraine is trying to build defensive fortifications in the eastern part of the country where Russian forces have been advancing and as Ukraine becomes more and more frustrated over the inability of the U.S. Congress to pass a massive military aid package for Ukraine because of partisan disagreements.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba told Politico in an article published on March 25 that his country desperately needs U.S.-made surface-to-air missiles to fend off Russia's relentless attacks.

"Give us the damn Patriots," he said, referring to the air-defense weapons that are the best defense system against the ballistic missiles that Russia has been using.

"If we had enough air-defense systems, namely Patriots, we would be able to protect not only the lives of our people, but also our economy from destruction," he added.

The personnel change comes as Ukraine is trying to build defensive fortifications in the eastern part of the country where Russian forces have been advancing.

Lytvynenko will take up his new duties amid regular barrages by Russian forces, including fresh drone and missile attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv on March 26.

The Russian Defense Ministry said its forces carried out strikes "on decision-making centers and facilities of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU)." The ministry said "high-precision long-range naval and land-based weapons and UAVs" were used in a group strike and claimed that the "goal of the strike was achieved."

Ukraine's military said it had shot down 12 Russian drones that were aimed Kyiv. No casualties were reported, but it was unclear if there was damage on the ground, the military said. In Kharkiv, regional authorities said at least eight Iranian-made drones targeted Ukraine's second-largest city but were shot down by air defenses.

The drone attacks occurred as engineers struggled to restore electricity to thousands of people from earlier attacks on Ukraine's energy grid.

Russian attacks a day earlier battered some of Kharkiv's electric grid, as well as facilities in the Black Sea port of Odesa and the river port of Mykolayiv. Odesa regional Governor Oleh Kiper said more than 300,000 residents were without power late March 25.

In addition, on the night of March 25, the Ukrainian military shot down eight of nine Shahed drones in the Mykolayiv and Odesa regions. In Mykolayiv, falling debris struck houses and injured 11 people.

Meanwhile, A Moscow court has issued an arrest warrant for the chief of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), Vasyl Malyuk, on charge of public calls for terrorism. Malyuk was also added to Russia's wanted list.

Kommersant newspaper said the charge might have stemmed from Malyuk's statement last year about SBU's involvement into an October 2022 attack on the key bridge in Ukraine's Moscow-occupied Crimea.

On March 25, in a televised interview, Malyuk revealed some details of deadly attacks against Russia's pro-Kremlin public figures since 2022. Malyuk did not say whether the SBU was involved in those attacks.

With reporting by Reuters, RFL's Russian Service, and Politico

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia- kyiv-kharkiv-drone-attacks-electricity/32877627.html

Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Statement by Russian Defence Ministry

26.03.2024

On 26 March 2024, the Russian airspace control systems located a group aerial target over the Barents Sea waters approaching the State border of the Russian Federation.

To identify the aerial target and prevent a violation of the State border of the Russian Federation, the on-duty MiG-31 fighter jet was scrambled.

The Russian fighter jet crew identified the aerial target as a pair of the U.S. Air Force B-1B strategic bombers.

As the Russian fighter jet approached, the U.S. strategic bombers crews adjusted the flight course as they withdrew and then made a U-turn away from the State border of the Russian Federation.

The Russian aircraft returned safely to the home airfield. There was no violation of the State border.

The flight of the Russian fighter jet was carried out in strict compliance with international rules on the use of airspace over international waters with observance of safety measures.

Department for Media Affairs and Information

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Statement by Russian Defence Ministry

26.03.2024

At around 07:00, the Russian Armed Forces' Grad MLRS foiled the Kiev regime attempt to launch a terrorist attack on the territory of the Russian Federation.

Air defence facilities shot down two rocket projectiles over Belgorod region.

Department for Media Affairs and Information

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Ihor Zhovkva discussed Ukraine's European integration and the preparation of a bilateral security agreement with the Swedish National Security Advisor

President of Ukraine

26 March 2024 - 20:48

Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Ihor Zhovkva had a phone call with National Security Advisor of the Kingdom of Sweden Henrik Landerholm.

Ihor Zhovkva congratulated Sweden on its accession to NATO on March 6, 2024, and thanked for the continued support of our country's Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

The diplomats discussed the current security situation in Ukraine in view of the recent massive attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure by the Russian Federation, including with ballistic missiles.

The interlocutors paid special attention to Ukraine's European integration and the extension of autonomous trade benefits for our country for another year.

The Deputy Head of the Presidential Office informed the Swedish side of the latest steps taken by Ukraine to complete the implementation of the four recommendations of the European Commission outlined in the framework of the 2023 Enlargement Package.

"We count on Sweden's support in approving the Negotiating Framework by the European Council in June and convening the first intergovernmental conference that will launch the negotiation process on Ukraine's accession to the EU," emphasized Ihor Zhovkva.

The interlocutors exchanged views on the conclusion of a bilateral agreement between Ukraine and the Kingdom of Sweden on cooperation in the security sector and agreed on the need to start the negotiation process between the teams of the two countries as soon as possible.

Ihor Zhovkva and Henrik Landerholm also coordinated a schedule of contacts at the highest level.



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President of Ukraine met with the delegation of the Estonian Parliament headed by President Lauri Hussar

President of Ukraine

26 March 2024 - 20:12

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the Riigikogu delegation headed by President Lauri Hussar.

The Head of State noted that the visit was another important signal of Estonia's support for Ukraine in the face of full-scale Russian aggression.

"We are grateful to the Estonian leadership and people who have been with us since the first day of this tragedy, this full-scale war. It is important that you have excellent relations with our Speaker and that you had a substantial amicable dialogue. We are very glad to see you all in Ukraine. Thank you," the President emphasized.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy particularly welcomed Estonia's initiative on a unified contribution from partners in the amount of 0.25% of GDP for military assistance to Ukraine.

During the meeting, the parties noted the historic speech of the President of Ukraine in the Riigikogu on January 11, 2024, and discussed further comprehensive support for our country from Estonia and other partners, as well as the urgent needs of our country to repel the invader.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Estonia for its continued support of Ukraine on its path to full membership in the European Union and NATO.

The parties paid special attention to the use of frozen Russian assets for the benefit of Ukraine. For Ukraine, it is important that Estonia is working to channel Russian assets to protect and restore life in Ukraine. In particular, the Estonian Parliament passed a bill in the first reading.

The interlocutors discussed progress in the preparation of a bilateral security agreement in pursuance of the G7 Joint Declaration.





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I expect strengthening of the strategic capabilities of our state to predict and influence the processes on which national security depends - address by the President of Ukraine

President of Ukraine

26 March 2024 - 19:26

I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!

I started the day with gratitude to the National Guard of Ukraine - today is the tenth anniversary of its establishment. I personally congratulated the national guardsmen and presented awards to the warriors. Our entire country should appreciate that the National Guard of Ukraine is a truly indispensable element of our country's Defense and Security Forces and in many ways sets the standards for all our defenders.A

I would also like to mention specific units and specific warriors who deserve special, personal gratitude for their effective actions at the front during this time. The 1st Presidential Operational Brigade - Soldier Ruslan Turanov and Lieutenant Dmytro Kalin. The 3rd Operational Brigade of the National Guard - Soldier Vladyslav Romanchuk, Senior Soldier Yehor Holubin, Sergeant Serhiy Maryshev. The 4th Operational Brigade - Soldier Artur Mizin and Junior Lieutenant Ruslan Minchenko. The 5th Separate Slobozhanska Brigade - Senior Soldier Oleh Shumov, Sergeant Bohdan Keichyn and Chief Sergeant Oleh Miroshnychenko. The 12th Special Forces Brigade of the National Guard - Senior Soldier Leonid Kubyshkovskyi and Junior Sergeants Mykola Halinskyi and Bohdan Petryniak. As well as the 18th Slovyansk Brigade - Sergeant Ruslan Khaimenov, Senior Sergeant Vladyslav Soroka and Junior Lieutenant Artem Holubenko. I thank all of you guys!A

I would also like to mention the Omega Special Forces Center of the National Guard - all its warriors. Recently, I signed a decree to posthumously confer the title of Hero of Ukraine on Colonel Andriy Pryimachenko, commander of the 1st Detachment of the Omega Center. Our country has exemplary brave warriors. We are proud of each of them.

Today I continued the reboot of our state's governance system. There are personnel changes. I am grateful to Oleksiy Danilov for his work as Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine. He is being reassigned to another area. More details will follow. I have appointed Oleksandr Lytvynenko as the new Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council - he will combine his experience of leading the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine with the tasks of the National Security and Defense Council. Oleh Ivashchenko has become the new Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service, he has the relevant experience. In general, I expect strengthening of the strategic capabilities of our state to predict and influence the processes on which the national security of our country depends.A

We will continue to strengthen Ukraine and upgrade our state system in all areas.

One more thing.

Every day, we continuously monitor the work in the regions, including Kharkiv, on eliminating the consequences of Russian strikes. Today, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal made a report on the matter. And I am grateful to everyone on the ground who works for the people, who non-stop, around the clock, does everything possible to ensure that people and businesses have electricity, communication, transport - all those essentials of life that are needed.

Thank you to everyone who cares about Ukraine! Thank you to everyone who protects our country and people!

Glory to Ukraine!





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President on the 10th anniversary of the National Guard of Ukraine: The National Guard has become indispensable in the fight against Russian aggression at the front and in maintaining security in the rear

President of Ukraine

26 March 2024 - 14:15

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in festivities on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the National Guard of Ukraine and the graduation of officers from the NGU National Academy and the NGU Kyiv Institute.

"For ten years now, the words 'national guardsman' have meant pride and strength, the necessary result in battle and security for the state of Ukraine. At the beginning, in 2014, these words - "national guardsman" - started with the meaning of "volunteer". This is still the case today. And every year adds another meaning to our National Guard of Ukraine, namely, indispensability," the Head of State emphasized.

He noted that the national guardsmen, along with other servicemen of the Defense and Security Forces, are participating in battles against Russia, fighting with fortitude and courage. In particular, the National Guard's aerial reconnaissance units are extremely effective in terms of the number of destroyed Russian equipment and enemy soldiers. More than 500 mobile and stationary firing groups of the National Guard destroy Russian missiles and drones every day. And the National Guard sappers are clearing Ukrainian land of Russian mines.

"In addition to combat, the National Guard of Ukraine also performs a protective function within our country, helping in rescue and recovery after Russian strikes and maintaining security. I am grateful to all the soldiers and commanders who serve the Ukrainian people and state in the full sense of the word. I am proud of the National Guard of Ukraine," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The President emphasized that Ukrainian history will always remember the heroic pages written by the warriors of the National Guard units since 2014.

"Defense of Kharkiv and defense of Kyiv region. Battles against Russian terrorists in 2014 in Donbas and defense of life in Donbas now. Heroism in the toughest confrontations. Ukraine will always be grateful to the warriors of the National Guard, in particular to the Azov unit, which defended Mariupol and Azovstal. We remember all the Ukrainians, all the defenders of Mariupol - all the Azov warriors who are now in Russian captivity. The state is doing everything possible to bring them back home, and I am grateful to all our institutions and especially to international mediators who help us in this," the President said.

According to the Head of State, more than nine thousand national guardsmen have already been honored with state awards, 48 of them have been conferred the title of Hero of Ukraine.

"Our state independence rests on such large-scale bravery of the Ukrainian people - our people, our Defense and Security Forces. Ukraine will always remember all its people who fought and gave their lives for the sake of our independence and the future for the Ukrainian people," Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.

The attendees observed a minute of silence in memory of the fallen defenders.

The President presented state awards to the servicemen of the National Guard of Ukraine.

In particular, the Order of the Golden Star was presented by the President to Captain Artur Pruhlov, Hero of Ukraine, who repeatedly demonstrated courage and professionalism in organizing assaults and breaking through enemy defenses. Groups under his command successfully stormed the enemy's positions, destroyed their equipment and soldiers, liberated captured national guardsmen and helped withdraw Ukrainian troops from encirclement.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy also presented the Golden Star of the Hero of Ukraine to Colonel Dmytro Vlasenko. At the end of 2023, he successfully organized the repelling of an assault on Ukrainian positions in Zaporizhzhia region and, risking his life, broke through to two wounded defenders under heavy enemy fire and successfully evacuated them. Thanks to the Colonel's combat skills and professional leadership, in October 2023, Ukrainian units managed to advance almost three kilometers deep into the front, take the occupiers prisoner, destroy enemy ammunition depots and equipment, and seize trophy weapons.

The President also presented the Orders of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, II and III class, and the Orders "For Courage", II and III class, to the national guardsmen.

With the aim of recognizing the high professionalism, combat merits, courage, and valor of the personnel, the Head of State conferred honorary titles and presented battle flags to the military units of the National Guard of Ukraine.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented battle flags to the 13th Operational Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine, the Special Forces Center and the International Interagency Multidisciplinary Training Center.

The President also conferred the honorary title of "Kharkiv" on the Eastern Territorial Department of the National Guard of Ukraine.

The ribbon "For Courage and Valor" was awarded to the 1st Presidential Operational Brigade named after Hetman Petro Doroshenko and the 12th Special Forces Brigade named after Dmytro Vyshnevetsky of the National Guard of Ukraine.





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TORONTO, March 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --



Todays 2024 Ontario Budget reaffirms the Provincial Governments commitment to investing in building more homes, infrastructure, and transit across the province.

Ontario REALTORS commend the Provinces $190B investment to expand critical infrastructure over the next decade, including highways, transit, homes, and high-speed internet  necessary improvements to support new communities and economic growth.

OREA is pleased to see some progress towards several REALTOR-led solutions from our recent Analysis of Ontarios Efforts to Boost Housing Supply mentioned in the budget, including:



Improving flexibility on financing for municipal water infrastructure projects, building on last weeks $825M investment into the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund;

A new $99.1M investment into the Site Preparation Pilot Program, repurposing surplus government properties into attainable housing and social infrastructure; and

A commitment to continue supporting key solutions like transit-oriented development and supporting modular construction.



In addition to measures directly addressing housing, the 2024 Ontario Budget also makes progress on several long-standing infrastructure priorities for Ontario REALTORS critical to the provinces long-term economic success  including support for Ontarios Ring of Fire region, protecting Torontos waterfront via the Port Lands Flood Protection Project, and investment in transit to improve connectivity province-wide. The Ford Government has made good progress since 2018, and were pleased with these additional steps in the right direction.

But in order to reach the goal of building 1.5 million new homes by 2031, and bring affordability closer to home for Ontario families, the government must keep their foot on the gas and take bold action. That includes allowing water and wastewater services to be offered through a municipal services corporation, modernizing zoning to support commercial-to-residential conversions and greater density along transit corridors, and eliminating exclusionary zoning.

Building more homes on existing properties is an essential key to unlocking affordable homeownership. Several municipalities, including Toronto, London, and Barrie, have led the way by proactively enabling four units as-of-right per lot, and it remains a key recommendation of the Provinces own Housing Affordability Task Force.

Todays Ontario Budget is a step in the right direction, and Ontario REALTORS thank Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy and the Ford Government for putting forward a strong fiscal foundation.

 Tim Hudak, CEO of the Ontario Real Estate Association

For more information, please contact:

Jean-Adrien Delicano

Manager, Media Relations

JeanAdrienD@orea.com

416-459-6059
Arlington, Massachusetts, March 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Generative AI has become a market-redefining tool for businesses globally. Yet, the current approach to unleashing this technologys power is short-sighted. PivotX Advisors (PXA), a data and generative AI advisory and consulting firm, advocates for businesses to move away from data-driven and shift towards data-centric growth. By taking this approach, organizations can surpass task-level productivity and simultaneously elevate value and revenue.

In the past few years, the tech world has transitioned from cloud migration and machine learning implementation to widespread generative AI (GenAI) experimentation. This explosion is expected to continue as the number of AI tools multiplies by the day, with businesses around the world aiming to democratize this highly influential technology. In this environment, businesses are determined to embed data and GenAI into every product, service, interface, and experience. However, this is not achievable without a solid data infrastructure that is equally enabled by AI and machine learning and cost-effective for enterprise deployment.

To design efficient, secure, and scalable data ecosystems, businesses must shift their operations from data-driven to data-centric. By this, PXA Founder and CEO Poornima Ramaswamy is referring to an evolved business model that monetizes data products by focusing on user journeys.



Data and AI professionals should be seeking individualization and not just personalization, this is what Gen AI has the potential to drive, Poornima shares. By recognizing and valuing an individual's characteristics, preferences, and needs, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, we could achieve unprecedented insights and data decisions that transform business. To get to this point, we need to begin seeing data as a monetization stream that gives businesses opportunities to create platforms for continuous productivity and customer experience. This is the strategy PivotX Advisors is championing.

At PXA, we help businesses navigate from data-driven decisions to data-centric businesses and believe that this requires a new way of thinking, says Poornima. We believe data products will become foundational in this journey but we need a unique approach to achieve this. Our data as a product approach is this unique framework and we believe it will change the business landscape. We transform use cases into use cases and user journeys, from user interfaces to user Experience, from data projects to data products, from IT business alignment to measurable business operating models. Data as a product approach is a confluence of product management discipline, design thinking practices, and agile principles, applied to the data world.

In product development, designers take user personas, journeys, and needs into account when creating tools. They dont create general-use solutions that will have a low impact. Most data and AI initiatives dont consider the user journey and experience, Poornima says that high-potential solutions remain focused on task-level automation. They improve productivity as a one-time exercise, but they dont leverage data and AI to continuously deliver more value to users, and compete with competitors.

Poornima Ramaswamy founded PivotX Advisors in 2023 to drive the creation of intuitive, cost-effective data-centric solutions that usher in a new era of business.



Right now, investments, interest, and intent are aligned in the realm of AI, but were only seeing a sliver of whats truly possible, Poornima says. By advising and consulting businesses on how to put data and AI at the forefront of their business model, society can use these technologies to drive our success. PivotX Advisors aims to help businesses of all sizes intentionally and strategically use data and AI to empower both themselves, as well as their employees. For businesses to truly shine, each and every person within the organization needs to grow alongside them. Our teams need awareness and training around how AI can elevate not only the business but also their roles within the organization. This will result in businesses taking a leap ahead of competition with a clear vision for scalable momentum.

Poornima has over 25 years of experience in the data and AI space. She has a robust knowledge of how businesses, users, and consultants are operating in the industry, and recognized a gap in the market. By balancing a business and human solution mindset into her company, PivotX Advisors is uniquely positioned to provide the data and GenAI advisory and consulting services necessary for businesses to achieve individualization.

PXA has a suite of data and GenAI offerings that are designed to help businesses pivot into a data-centric growth model that will put organizational success into overdrive. Some of the data advisory and consulting services they provide include value opportunity mapping, operating model definition, and value measurement. For GenAI applications, PivotX Advisors offers skills assessments, personalized training, user experience and use case definition, rapid prototyping, and experimentation, and establishing GenAI CoEs (Center of Excellence).

By collaborating with PXA, businesses can become more intentional and adaptable in the constantly evolving landscape of data and AI. Building sound data foundations will enable organizations to provide deliberate responses to unexpected changes.





In the fast-moving tech world, data is the one constant that can help businesses understand what's happening, what's going to be impacted, what has already been impacted, and determine what actions are necessary to grow and manage risk, Poornima says.

According to a recent survey, while 93% of respondents feel that data is essential for extracting value from GenAI, 57% have not taken any action to improve their data infrastructure. These figures highlight the importance for businesses to rapidly implement a data-centric approach. Not taking this step threatens sustainable success and underutilizes the groundbreaking capabilities of AI.

Media Contact

Name: Poornima Ramaswamy

Email: poornima@pivotxadvisors.com




Guangdong, China, March 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a recent exploration journey to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Reported by Guangdong Radio and Television stationSwedish scholars delved into the heart of southern China's economic powerhouse, uncovering a blend of modernity, tradition, and international cooperation. Led by Stephen, a distinguished Swedish scholar, the delegation embarked on a seven-day journey spanning Guangzhou, Dongguan, and Shenzhen, immersing themselves in the region's dynamic landscape and cultural heritage.



YouTube : https://youtu.be/_RAq7vIWTww

Stephen, whose expertise lies in international relations and cultural exchange, expressed his awe at the region's modernity, style, and beauty. His quest for insights into the fertile ground for reform and development experience led him to explore the eastern coast of the Pearl River Delta, where he encountered the rich and enduring Lingnan culture.

During their visit, Stephen engaged in discussions with local academics, including Dai Yonghong, the Dean of the School of Foreign Languages at Shenzhen University. Conversations revolved around the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with Stephen emphasizing its historic significance for mankind. He underscored the concept of a "community for a shared future for mankind," a principle often overlooked in Western narratives surrounding the BRI.

Stephen highlighted the importance of accurate information dissemination, citing the establishment of the Belt and Road Institute in Sweden as a response to the failure of mainstream media to convey China's achievements and the true intentions of the BRI. He expressed a commitment to fostering exchanges with institutions like Shenzhen University and Guangzhou Institute for Foreign Studies to enlighten audiences in Sweden and Europe.

In response, Dai Yonghong expressed appreciation for Stephen's insights and emphasized the international consensus surrounding the BRI. He noted that while the initiative originated in China, it has evolved into a global endeavor, with over 152 countries and international organizations joining hands with the Chinese government. Dai reiterated President Xi Jinping's principles of the Silk Road spirit, emphasizing openness, peace, cooperation, inclusiveness, and mutual benefits.

The exploration journey of the Swedish scholars sheds light on the Greater Bay Area's multifaceted landscape, from its economic vibrancy to its cultural richness. Their interactions with local academia underscore the importance of international dialogue and cooperation in shaping global narratives surrounding initiatives like the BRI. As the world continues to embrace connectivity and collaboration, exchanges like these serve as bridges between nations, fostering understanding and mutual prosperity.

TikTok: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSFm7wrSS/





Disclaimer: The distribution company, KISS PR, has received this press release from the Gateway Sweden Project.The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any securities by KISS PR. KISS PR is not a registered investment advisor or broker/dealer. Therefore, this content should solely be used for informational purposes. Due to the nature of the information, Guangdong Radio and Television station advises readers to seek their own professional advice when making investment decisions. Any direct or indirect liability for decisions made based on the content of this press release is hereby disclaimed. For any media or further information, please contact Ke Yan at 1832910754@qq.com.

Media Contact:



Ke Yan

1832910754@qq.com

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Biz2X and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) today announced that Frontiers of Digital Finance (FDF) will be an official event at the 2024 Dubai FinTech Summit. FDF Dubai will feature key industry leaders from financial institutions, technology platforms, global consultancies, and government officials in an invite-only event on May 8, 2024.



Like previous sessions in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, FDF Dubai will bring together global business leaders to explore AI, large data models, and lending tech innovations currently shaping the financial landscape. In collaboration with DIFC Innovation Hub, the event will also spotlight Dubai's groundbreaking Vision D33 for transforming finance in the Emirates. Details on the venue and full agenda will be forthcoming at frontiersofdigitalfinance.com.

FDF Conference Series Puts Spotlight on AI in Finance in First-Ever Tour of MENA

Frontiers of Digital Finance is continuing its circuit of key Middle East financial centers. Biz2X and co-partner SIMAH (the Saudi Credit Bureau) recently hosted FDF Riyadh, focused on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabias (KSA) Vision 2030 for transforming the Saudi economy. The event was a milestone in the digital finance ecosystem within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA),

Supporting partners include DLA Piper, AWS, Mastercard, Qarar, and Oracle. Panel discussions included tech innovations, AI-led business strategy, capital markets, and digital transformation, shedding light on how these elements are driving financial accessibility, stability, and growth in alignment with KSA's ambitious Vision 2030 goals.

Highlights from the Riyadh edition are now available online.

Rohit Arora, Co-Founder and CEO of Biz2X, remarked: "FDF Riyadh was a platform dialogue and collaboration aiming to achieve Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives through digital finance. We are proud to be hosting these urgent and powerful conversations with the Frontiers of Digital Finance series."

Husam Arabiat, CEO MENAT Region at Biz2X, extended an invitation for leaders to join the event in Dubai: Leaders who attend our FDF events are actively shaping the future of finance through their participation in this important global conversation. Dubai is a fantastic host city for that discussion. We are incredibly excited to bring together the brightest minds in finance during Dubai FinTech Summit with our partners, including DIFC Innovation Hub.

Frontiers of Digital Finance continues to be a must-attend "invite only" event, fostering collaboration, innovation, and thought leadership in the global digital finance community. Sponsorship opportunities at FDF Dubai are now available by inquiring on the website.

About Biz2X & Frontiers of Digital Finance:

Biz2X is a pioneering digital lending platform which helps financial institutions offer business financing through advanced proprietary technology.

The Frontiers of Digital Finance event series is a must-attend event for innovators in the financial sector, bringing together executives to discuss trends shaping the future of financial services and technology.

For media inquiries, please contact:

John Mooney

Over The Moon PR (for Biz2X)

908-720-6057

john@overthemoonpr.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/772a57c6-2205-4c17-9792-eb9b99ec96a3
SEATTLE, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WatchGuard Technologies, a global leader in unified cybersecurity, today announced the findings of its latest Internet Security Report, detailing the top malware trends and network and endpoint security threats analyzed by WatchGuard Threat Lab researchers. Key findings from the data show a dramatic surge in evasive malware that fueled a large increase of total malware, threat actors targeting on-premises email servers as prime targets to exploit, and ransomware detections continuing to decline, potentially as a result of law enforcements international takedown efforts of ransomware extortion groups.

The Threat Labs latest research shows threat actors are employing various techniques as they look for vulnerabilities to target, including in older software and systems, which is why organizations must adopt a defense-in-depth approach to protect against such threats, said Corey Nachreiner, chief security officer at WatchGuard. Updating the systems and software on which organizations rely is a vital step toward addressing these vulnerabilities. Additionally, modern security platforms that are operated by managed service providers can deliver the comprehensive, unified security that organizations need and enable them to combat the latest threats.

Among the key findings, the latest Internet Security Report featuring data from Q4 2023 showed:

Evasive, basic, and encrypted malware all increased in Q4, fueling a rise in total malware. The average malware detections per Firebox rose 80% from the previous quarter, illustrating a substantial volume of malware threats arriving at the network perimeter. Geographically, most of the increased malware instances affected the Americas and Asia-Pacific.

TLS and zero-day malware instances also rise. Approximately 55% of malware arrived over encrypted connections, which was a 7% increase from Q3. Zero-day malware detections jumped to 60% of all malware detections, up from 22% the previous quarter. However, zero-day malware detections with TLS fell to 61%, which was a 10% decrease from Q3, showing the unpredictability of malware in the wild.

Two top 5 malware variants redirect to DarkGate network. Among the top 5 most-widespread malware detections were JS.Agent.USF and Trojan.GenericKD.67408266. Both variants redirect users to malicious links, and both malware loaders attempt to load DarkGate malware on the victims computer.

A surge in living-off-the-land techniques. Q4 showed a resurgence in script-based threats, as scripts rose the most as an endpoint attack vector, with threats detected increasing 77% from Q3. PowerShell was the top attack vector that the Threat Lab saw hackers use on endpoints. Browser-based exploits also rose significantly, increasing 56%.

Four of the top 5 most-widespread network attacks were Exchange server attacks. These attacks are specifically associated with one of the ProxyLogon, ProxyShell, and ProxyNotShell exploits. A ProxyLogon signature that first appeared in the top 5 most-widespread network attacks in Q4 2022 at number 4 and rose to number 2 in Q4 2023. These attacks illustrate the need to reduce reliance on on-premises email servers to mitigate security threats.

Cyberattack commoditization continues, trending toward victim-as-a-service offerings. Glupteba and GuLoader were once again counted among the top 10 most prevalent endpoint malware in Q4, making a return as two of the most prolific variants analyzed during the quarter. Glupteba is worth noting as a particularly formidable and sophisticated adversary, due in part to its prevalence targeting victims on a global scale. A multi-faceted malware-as-a-service (MaaS), Gluptebas malicious capabilities include downloading additional malware, masquerading as a botnet, stealing sensitive information, and mining cryptocurrency with tremendous stealth.

Takedown efforts stifling ransomware extortion groups. Once again in Q4, the Threat Lab reported a decline in ransomware detections compared to the previous quarter  observing a 20% decrease in overall volume for the last three months of 2023. WatchGuards threat analysts also noted a decline in public ransomware breaches and attribute this trend to law enforcements ongoing takedown efforts of ransomware extortion groups.

Consistent with WatchGuards Unified Security Platform approach and the WatchGuard Threat Labs previous quarterly research updates, the data analyzed in this quarterly report is based on anonymized, aggregated threat intelligence from active WatchGuard network and endpoint products whose owners have opted to share in direct support of WatchGuards research efforts.

For a more in-depth view of WatchGuards research, download the complete Q4 2023 Internet Security Report here: https://www.watchguard.com/wgrd-resource-center/security-report-q4-2023

About WatchGuard Technologies, Inc.

WatchGuard Technologies, Inc. is a global leader in unified cybersecurity. Our Unified Security Platform approach is uniquely designed for managed service providers to deliver world-class security that increases their business scale and velocity while also improving operational efficiency. Trusted by more than 17,000 security resellers and service providers to protect more than 250,000 customers, the companys award-winning products and services span network security and intelligence, advanced endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication, and secure Wi-Fi. Together, they offer five critical elements of a security platform: comprehensive security, shared knowledge, clarity & control, operational alignment, and automation. The company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, with offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. To learn more, visit WatchGuard.com.





For additional information, promotions and updates, follow WatchGuard on Twitter (@WatchGuard), on Facebook, or on the LinkedIn Company page. Also, visit our InfoSec blog, Secplicity, for real-time information about the latest threats and how to cope with them at www.secplicity.org. Subscribe to The 443  Security Simplified podcast at Secplicity.org, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.

WatchGuard is a registered trademark of WatchGuard Technologies, Inc. All other marks are property of their respective owners.

####
Atlanta, Georgia, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Executive MBA (EMBA) offered by Georgia State Universitys J. Mack Robinson College of Business is No. 9 among U.S.-based programs and No. 28 worldwide, according to 2024 rankings from CEO Magazine.

The U.K.-based publication determines its EMBA rankings by fact-based criteria, with greatest emphasis on quality of faculty. Other attributes evaluated include international diversity, class size, accreditation, faculty-to-student ratio, cost, international exposure, work experience, professional development, gender parity, and course delivery methods.

Our EMBA team works tirelessly to continually improve our students experience. Whether it concerns updating the curriculum to reflect the current demands on leaders, such as understanding how to leverage AI, or the deeply impactful visits during the international residency, there isnt an element of the student experience that we dont work hard to improve every year, said Brian Jennings, Robinsons senior associate dean for graduate and non-degree programs.

Robinsons EMBA prepares leaders for whats next in their careers. The 17-month program, taught at Georgia States Buckhead Center, broadens mid-to senior-level managers understanding of global business and strengthens their professional networks. The program format (every other weekend) allows participants to earn an MBA while maintaining their careers. It culminates in an international business residency and consulting project, most recently South Africa, where students meet with business leaders from around the world.

Learn more about the Georgia State University EMBA program at https://robinson.gsu.edu/emba.

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Tokyo, Japan and Cambridge, UK, 27 March 2024  Sosei Group Corporation (the Company; TSE: 4565) announces that the re-election of its Board of Directors and Executive Officers was approved at the Companys 34th Annual Shareholders Meeting and a subsequent Board of Directors meeting, held today in Tokyo. In addition, the Partial Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation (Change of Corporate Name) was approved at the Annual Shareholders Meeting. With this approval, the Company will change its name to Nxera Pharma Co., Ltd. with effect from 1 April 2024.



Shinichi Tamura, Chairman of Sosei Heptares, said: 2023 was a transformational year for Sosei Group enabling us to accelerate our development going forward as an integrated, technology powered, commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on applying cutting-edge science to deliver life-changing medicines for patients in Japan and globally.

We have great optimism about the future for the Group as we embark on the next phase of our journey under a new name  Nxera Pharma  unified, well-financed and with a clear vision and purpose to deliver life-changing medicines to patients and in so doing create value for all our stakeholders.

Details of the Board of Directors and Executive Officers

Board of Directors (effective 27 March 2024)

Chairman of the Board, Shinichi Tamura (reappointed)

Representative Executive Officer, Chris Cargill (reappointed)

Independent External Director, Tomohiro Tohyama (reappointed)

Independent External Director, Kuniaki Kaga (reappointed)

Independent External Director, David Roblin (reappointed)

Independent External Director, Noriaki Nagai (reappointed)

Independent External Director, Rolf Soderstrom (reappointed)

Independent External Director, Miwa Seki (reappointed)

Independent External Director, Eiko Tomita (reappointed)

Executive Officers (effective 27 March 2024)

President & Chief Executive Officer, Chris Cargill

EVP, President of Heptares Therapeutics, Head of UK R&D, Matt Barnes

EVP, Chief Financial Officer, Hironoshin Nomura

EVP, Chief Accounting Officer, Kieran Johnson

EVP, Chief Compliance Officer, Kazuhiko Yoshizumi

EVP, Chief of Staff, Candelle Chong

EVP, President of Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Japan Ltd, Satoshi Tanaka

EVP, Chief Operating Officer, Toshihiro Maeda

-ENDS-

About Sosei Heptares

Sosei Heptares is a fully integrated biopharmaceutical company focused on bringing life-changing medicines based on world-class science to patients globally. Our vision is to become one of Japans global biopharmaceutical champions.

Our global business combines our world-leading GPCR-targeted StaR technology, structure-based drug design and early development capabilities in the UK with a highly experienced clinical development capability and a commercial operation in Japan.

We are leveraging these capabilities to generate and advance a broad and deep pipeline of novel medicines across multiple therapeutic areas, including neurology, immunology, gastroenterology and inflammatory diseases. We intend to develop these opportunities for patients in Japan and globally both internally and through our partnerships with global biopharmaceutical companies and emerging technology companies.

Sosei Heptares operates from key locations in Tokyo and Osaka (Japan), London and Cambridge (UK), Basel (Switzerland) and Seoul (South Korea).

Sosei Heptares is the corporate brand and trademark of Sosei Group Corporation, which is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (ticker: 4565). Sosei, Heptares, the logo and StaR are trademarks of Sosei Group companies.

For more information, please visit https://soseiheptares.com/

LinkedIn: @soseiheptaresco | X: @soseiheptaresco | YouTube: @soseiheptaresco

Enquiries:

Sosei Heptares  Media and Investor Relations

Kentaro Tahara, VP Investor Relations and Corporate Strategy

Shinichiro Nishishita, VP Investor Relations, Head of Regulatory Disclosures

Maya Bennison, Communications Manager

+81 (0)3 5210 3399 | +44 (0)1223 949390 | IR@SoseiHeptares.com

MEDiSTRAVA Consulting (for International Media)

Mark Swallow, Frazer Hall, Erica Hollingsworth

+44 (0)203 928 6900 | SoseiHeptares@medistrava.com

Forward-looking statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements about the discovery, development, and commercialization of products. Various risks may cause Sosei Group Corporations actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including: adverse results in clinical development programs; failure to obtain patent protection for inventions; commercial limitations imposed by patents owned or controlled by third parties; dependence upon strategic alliance partners to develop and commercialize products and services; difficulties or delays in obtaining regulatory approvals to market products and services resulting from development efforts; the requirement for substantial funding to conduct research and development and to expand commercialization activities; and product initiatives by competitors. As a result of these factors, prospective investors are cautioned not to rely on any forward-looking statements. We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Paris, March 27th, 2024

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton announces the availability of its 2023 Universal Registration Document (URD), in accordance with applicable regulations.

The French version of this document was filed with the Autorite des marches financiers (AMF) on March 26th, 2024 in ESEF format (European Single Electronic Format) under the reference D.24-0182. The English translation of this document may be consulted on the Companys website www.lvmh.com (under Investors / Investors and Analysts / Publications). It is equally available on the AMF website: www. a mf-france.org .

This document includes in particular:

- the 2023 annual financial report;

- the report of the Board of Directors on corporate governance;

- the Statutory Auditors reports;

- the statement of Auditors fees;

- the description of the share buyback program;

- the statement of non-financial performance.

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Visiongain has published a new report: Biofuel Industry Market Report 2024-2034: Forecasts by Type (Biodiesel, Ethanol, Other), by End-use (Transportation, Electricity Generation, Heating Buildings, Other), by Generation (First-generation Biofuels, Second-generation Biofuels, Third-generation Biofuels Fourth-generation Biofuels, Fifth-generation Biofuels), by Source (Maize, Vegetable Oils, Sugar Beet, Wheat, Sugar Cane, Other) AND Regional and Leading National Market Analysis PLUS Analysis of Leading Companies AND COVID-19 Impact and Recovery Pattern Analysis.

The global Biofuel Industry market was valued at US$123.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period 2024-2034.

Rising Electric Vehicle Industry to Drive the Market

The growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is an important trend that is shaping the future of the biofuel industry. As consumers and governments around the world seek to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, there has been a rapid increase in the adoption of EVs. This shift towards EVs is creating both challenges and opportunities for the biofuel industry.

One of the main challenges is that EVs are powered by electricity, not liquid fuels, which means that they do not use biofuels directly as a fuel source. However, biofuels can still play a role in the production of electricity that powers EVs. Many electricity grids are transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, which can be complemented by bioenergy sources. Bioenergy can be generated from a variety of sources, including agricultural and forestry residues, municipal solid waste, and dedicated energy crops. Bioenergy can be converted to electricity using a variety of technologies, including combustion, gasification, and anaerobic digestion.

Land-Use Conflicts Continue to Be a Major Issue for the Industry

Land-use conflicts are one of the major restraining factors for the biofuel industry. This is because biofuels are often produced from agricultural crops, which can compete with food production and other land uses. As a result, the expansion of biofuel production can create conflicts with local communities, environmental groups, and other stakeholders.

The competition for land between biofuels and food production is particularly acute in developing countries, where food security is already a major concern. In some cases, large-scale biofuel production has led to the displacement of small farmers and local communities, as well as deforestation and other environmental impacts.

Download Exclusive Sample of Report

https://www.visiongain.com/report/biofuel-industry-market-2024/#download_sampe_div

How will this Report Benefit you?

Visiongains 331-page report provides 128 tables and 174 charts/graphs. Our new study is suitable for anyone requiring commercial, in-depth analyses for the global biofuels market, along with detailed segment analysis in the market. Our new study will help you evaluate the overall global and regional market for biofuels. Get financial analysis of the overall market and different segments including offering, application, service, airspace, and company size and capture higher market share. We believe that there are strong opportunities in this fast-growing biofuels market. See how to use the existing and upcoming opportunities in this market to gain revenue benefits in the near future. Moreover, the report will help you to improve your strategic decision-making, allowing you to frame growth strategies, reinforce the analysis of other market players, and maximise the productivity of the company.

Growing Partnerships and Collaborations in Biofuel Industry

Partnerships and collaborations have been instrumental in driving innovation, growth, and sustainability in the biofuel industry. With the complexity and interdependence of the industry, partnerships and collaborations have been critical in enabling stakeholders to pool resources, expertise, and technologies towards shared goals.

One of the key benefits of partnerships and collaborations in the biofuel industry is the sharing of knowledge and resources. Through collaboration, stakeholders can leverage each other's expertise, technologies, and networks, resulting in faster and more effective innovation, development, and deployment of biofuels.

In July 2023, Biofuel Express announced the expansion of the successful collaboration with Neste, a global leader in green fuels. This partnership signifies an important milestone in delivering top-quality biofuels to companys current and future customers in the Danish market. Neste is partnering with Biofuel Express to sell Neste MY Renewable Diesel in Denmark. Biofuel Express will distribute and sell Neste MY Renewable Diesel, while Neste will ensure sufficient volumes of the fuel.

Get Detailed ToC

https://www.visiongain.com/report/biofuel-industry-market-2024/

Competitive Landscape

Biofuel market is highly competitive in nature as leading companies operating in this industry dominated the market in 2023 and is expected to continue their dominance over the forecast period. Leading companies are Abengoa, Air Liquide, Alto Ingredients, Inc. (Pacific Ethanol), Bunge Limited, Butamax Advanced Biofuels, Chevron Renewable Energy Group, Cosan S.A., Crop Energies AG, Gevo, Inc., Green Plains, Petrobras, Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Valero Marketing and Supply Company, and Wilmar International Limited. Companies are adopting different strategies such as new product development, merger & acquisitions, partnership, collaboration, and investment in order to stay competitive in the industry.

In October 2023, Be8, the national leader in biodiesel, announced an exclusive product that will revolutionize the biofuels market.

In March 2022, Renewable Energy Group Inc., a leading biobased diesel producer in North America, announced the introduction of a line of branded fuel solutions, EnDura Fuels.

To access the data contained in this document please email contactus@visiongain.com . Avoid missing out by staying informed  order our report now.

To find more Visiongain research reports on the Energy sector, click on the following links:

Do you have any custom requirements we can help you with? Any need for a specific country, geo region, market segment or specific company information? Contact us today, we can discuss your needs and see how we can help: contactus@visiongain.com

About Visiongain

Visiongain is one of the fastest growing and most innovative independent market intelligence providers around, the company publishes hundreds of market research reports which it adds to its extensive portfolio each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis across 18 industries worldwide. The reports, which cover 10-year forecasts, are hundreds of pages long, with in-depth market analysis and valuable competitive intelligence data. Visiongain works across a range of vertical markets with a lot of synergies. These markets include automotive, aviation, chemicals, cyber, defence, energy, food & drink, materials, packaging, pharmaceutical and utilities sectors. Our customised and syndicated market research reports offer a bespoke piece of market intelligence customised to your very own business needs.

Contact

Visiongain Reports Limited

Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7336 6100

Email: contactus@visiongain.com

Web: www.visiongain.com
Dublin, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Reverse Logistics Market Report by Return Type, Service, End User, and Region 2024-2032" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global reverse logistics market reached US$ 646.7 billion in 2023. Looking forward, the market is projected to reach US$ 1,008.4 billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% during 2023-2032.



A rapid expansion in the e-commerce sector has led to the rise in the overall volume of returns and replacement items, which has escalated the demand for an efficient reverse logistics service. This is primarily driving the global reverse logistics market growth. Other than e-commerce, these systems play an important part in the pharmaceuticals, electrical, and automotive industries, which is further fueling the market growth.

Besides this, rapid industrialization and increasing development of manufacturing industries across emerging economies, such as Asia-Pacific and South America, are contributing to the growth of the market. Moreover, leading players are consistently investing in the improvement of supply chain management processes, which is creating a positive outlook for the market across the globe. The rise in the adoption of internet of things (IoT)-enabled connected devices is acting as another major growth-inducing factor.





Key Market Segmentation



The report provides an analysis of the key trends in each sub-segment of the global reverse logistics market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country level from 2024-2032. The report has categorized the market based on return type, service, end user, and region.



Breakup by Return Type:

Recalls

Commercial Returns

Repairable Returns

End-of-Use Returns

End of life Returns

Breakup by Service:

Transportation

Warehousing

Reselling

Replacement Management

Refund Management Authorization

Others

Breakup by End User:

E-Commerce

Automotive

Pharmaceutical

Consumer Electronic

Retail

Luxury Goods

Reusable Packaging

Breakup by Region:

North America United States Canada

Asia-Pacific China Japan India South Korea Australia Indonesia Others

Europe Germany France United Kingdom Italy Spain Russia Others

Latin America Brazil Mexico Others

Middle East and Africa

Competitive Landscape

The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined along with the profiles of the key players being:

C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc.

Core Logistic Private Limited

Deutsche Post AG

Fedex Corporation

Happy Returns Inc. (PayPal Holdings Inc.)

Kintetsu World Express Inc. (Kintetsu Group Holdings)

Optoro Inc.

Pitney Bowes Inc.

Reverse Logistics Group

Safexpress Pvt. Ltd.

United Parcel Service Inc.

Yusen Logistics Co. Ltd. (Nippon Ysen Kabushiki Kaisha)

Key Attributes

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 142 Forecast Period 2023-2032 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $646.7 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2032 $1,008.4 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 5.1% Regions Covered Global

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/w8xql7

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Private LTE Market Report by Component, Technology, Frequency Band, Deployment Model, Industry Vertical, and Region 2024-2032" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global private LTE market reached US$ 5.6 billion in 2023. Looking forward, the market is projected to reach US$ 14.6 billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 11.2% during 2023-2032.



Significant growth in the telecommunication industry across the globe is one of the key factors creating a positive outlook for the market. Private LTE provides improved bandwidth and data transfer speeds that prevent unstable internet connections during video and audio calls. Additionally, the widespread product utilization in smartphones and smart home devices, such as security alarms, connected city streetlights, smart waste management and wearable fitness and health trackers, is favouring the market growth.

Moreover, various technological advancements, such as the integration of communication systems with artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) solutions to provide seamless connectivity, enhanced security, outdoor coverage, and low latency, are providing a thrust to the market growth. These technologies analyse, optimize, and improve the data and maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information within the network.

Other factors, including the increasing demand for wireless networks across organizations, along with the widespread product adoption in the medical industry for improved communications between healthcare systems, are anticipated to drive the market toward growth.





Key Market Segmentation



The report provides an analysis of the key trends in each sub-segment of the global private LTE market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country level from 2024-2032. The report has categorized the market based on component, technology, frequency band, deployment model and industry vertical.



Breakup by Component:

Infrastructure

Service

Breakup by Technology:

FDD

TDD

Breakup by Frequency Band:

Licensed

Unlicensed

Shared Spectrum

Breakup by Deployment Model:

Centralized

Distributed

Breakup by Industry Vertical:

Healthcare

IT and Telecom

Manufacturing, Retail and E-commerce

Government and Defense

Energy and Utility

Oil and Gas

Education

Others

Breakup by Region:

North America

Asia-Pacific

Europe

Latin America

Middle East and Africa

Competitive Landscape



The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined along with the profiles of the key players being:

Airspan Networks Inc.

ASOCS Ltd.

Casa Systems Inc.

Cisco Systems Inc.

Comba Telecom Systems Holdings Limited

CommScope Inc.

Druid Software Limited

Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd.

Nokia Corporation

Qualcomm Incorporated

Sierra Wireless Inc and Telefonica SA

Key Attributes

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 142 Forecast Period 2023-2032 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $5.6 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2032 $14.6 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 11.2% Regions Covered Global

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/xua4he

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Battery supply chain testing now moving to final stages

High quality gypsum by-product may be eligible for industrial and agricultural uses

Phosphate quality may be eligible for European market (low cadmium)



TORONTO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fox River Resources Corporation (the Company or Fox River) (CSE: FOX) is pleased to announce that the JESA Technologies Hemi Di Hydrate (HDH) Process has successfully transformed the Martison phosphate concentrate to a high-quality Merchant Grade Phosphoric Acid (MGA).

In Q3 2023, a 600-kilogram sample of apatite concentrate was sent to the facilities of JESA Technologies in Lakeland, Florida USA for the production of phosphoric acid using the JESA Technologies Hemi-Dihydrate (HDH) process. The feed rate of the rock feed blend and sulphuric acid were calculated to be at a specific reactor volume of 2M3/t/d P 2 O 5 . During the 160 hour continuous run, product samples of both the 40% P 2 O 5 phosphoric acid and the gypsum were analyzed every three hours. The 40% P 2 O 5 phosphoric acid was then concentrated to produce merchant grade acid (MGA). The clarification tests produced a low quantity of sludge.

Approximately 100 litres of MGA (54% P 2 O 5 ) were produced for the purposes of testing its suitability for the production of purified phosphoric acid (PPA) used in the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery markets.

The PPA testing results are expected to be available by the end of Q3 2024.

The main results of the MGA tests are summarized below:

The phosphate concentrate used in the pilot plant contained 36.64% P 2 O 5 with a MER of 0.089. The high-grade igneous concentrate was blended to assimilate the grade and MER, (level of impurities) used in the Preliminary Economic Study (PEA).

O with a MER of 0.089. The high-grade igneous concentrate was blended to assimilate the grade and MER, (level of impurities) used in the Preliminary Economic Study (PEA). Further grinding of the phosphate concentrate was not required.

The operation of the pilot plant using the Martison phosphate rock was stable and quite easily operable in the JESA Technologies HDH process route.

Efficiency (P 2 O 5 recovery) at the pilot unit is high and above 99%.

O recovery) at the pilot unit is high and above 99%. The total phosphate content found in the gypsum produced is low at less than 0.2% P 2 O 5 .

O . Overall plant sizing, including the two filters, will be relatively compact due to the good filtration rates obtained.

The MGA (54% P 2 O 5 ) quality can be easily attained from the 40% P 2 O 5 acid produced when processed using the JESA Technologies HDH process route.

O ) quality can be easily attained from the 40% P O acid produced when processed using the JESA Technologies HDH process route. The MGA clarification tests produced very little sludge (0.68% solids w/w produced after 96 hrs).

The sulphuric acid consumption used in the phosphate acidulation process was 2.46 tonnes, basis 100% H 2 SO 4 per tonne of P 2 O 5 . This is lower than most sedimentary deposits and produces an economic advantage due to lower sulphuric acid consumption.

SO per tonne of P O . This is lower than most sedimentary deposits and produces an economic advantage due to lower sulphuric acid consumption. The quantity of calcium sulphate generated by the process is 4.55 tonnes dihydrate (DH) per tonne of P 2 O 5 produced.

O produced. The impact of the JESA Technologies HDH process route on the environment is low compared to other phosphoric acid processes. This process produces a clean, low impurity, calcium sulphate (Gypsum).

The calcium sulphate is of a quality that can possibly be used in the agriculture, construction, or cement industries. Further work will need to be conducted to confirm these markets.

The cadmium content is less than 2 ppm in the 40% P 2 O 5 phosphoric acid and less than 3 ppm in the 54% P 2 O 5 MGA. This is important because it will allow the production of fertilizer products that meet the most stringent European cadmium content regulations.



Figures and Diagrams

Pilot plant set-up as shown in the sketch below.

Figure 1: JESA Technologies Process Route





Figure 2: 40% Filter Product Acid





Figure 3: Clarified MGA





Table 1: Analysis of 40% Filter Acid and Clarified MGA







Figure 4: Dihydrate Gypsum Cake





Figure 5: Dihydrate Gypsum Crystals





Technical Information

The scientific and technical disclosure for Fox River Resources included in this news release have been reviewed and approved by Mr. James Byrd. Mr. Byrd is a chemical engineer and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and has verified the data disclosed in this news release.

ABOUT FOX RIVER

Fox River owns a 100% interest in the Martison Phosphate Project, located near Hearst, Ontario. The Martison Phosphate Project hosts the Anomaly A deposit which forms the basis for a positive preliminary economic assessment with an effective date of April 21, 2022. Additional information can be found at www.fox-river.ca or under Fox Rivers profile on SEDAR.

For further information, please contact:

Stephen D. Case

President & Chief Executive Officer

Tel: (416) 972-9222

www.fox-river.ca

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, exploration results, potential mineralization, statements relating to mineral resources, and the Companys plans with respect to the exploration and development of its properties. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of Fox River Resources Corporation, including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, volatility of commodity prices, risks associated with the uncertainty of exploration results and estimates, currency fluctuations, dependency upon regulatory approvals, the uncertainty of obtaining additional financing, and exploration risk. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/819fa017-f6c4-4015-89e1-e9190fa909df

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/56662c71-6679-4bc6-895c-4019204543c2

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/96b37d5c-c41f-4b25-953c-5d74f0b8da43

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7690383f-83a7-4b66-b03b-115a683f5155

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d39a3632-ce3d-424a-bcae-7fcc5a1b4180

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a6edbe29-3681-4a0f-b0fa-3cbcf17ddcfc
TORONTO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- White Gold Corp. (TSX.V: WGO, OTCQX: WHGOF, FRA: 29W) (the Company) is pleased to provide an exploration update on the Bridget and Isaac porphyry targets located on the Pedlar and Hayes properties, respectively. Exploration work completed during 2023 included Induced Polarization (IP) chargeability and resistivity survey lines and hyperspectral analysis on 2022 prosecting rock samples. All data collected thus far on these large early-stage targets continue to support a porphyry deposit model.



The Pedlar and Hayes properties are situated in the southern part of the Companys 315,000 hectare (3,150 km2) land package in the White Gold District, west-central Yukon (Figure 1). Western Copper and Gold Corporations Casino copper-gold-molybdenum porphyry deposit (Measured & Indicated Resources of 7.6 Blb copper and 14.5 Moz gold and Inferred Resources of 3.3 Blb copper and 6.6 Moz gold) sits approximately 30 km southwest and 40 km west of the Bridget and Isaac targets respectively. Casino is one of the largest undeveloped copper-gold projects in Canada, and since 2021 has seen strategic investments by major partners including Rio Tinto Canada Inc. and Mitsubishi Materials Corporation. The Pedlar and Hayes properties are also located 40 km and 72 km southeast, respectively, of the Companys flagship White Gold project which contains an estimated 1,152,900 ounces of gold in Indicated Resources and 942,400 ounces of gold in Inferred Resources(1).

Terry Brace, Vice President of Exploration commented: We are encouraged by results of the 2023 IP test lines at the Bridget and Isaac targets which identified new anomalies and structures that overall correlate well with the soil geochemistry anomalies and current structural interpretations. The new IP looked deeper than any previous geophysical surveys and demonstrates potential at depth beneath these large multi-element soil anomalies. The test results warrant full IP survey coverage over the target areas which will aid in mapping these systems at depth in support of future diamond drill testing.

Shawn Ryan, co-founder, Chief Technical Advisor and Director, commented further: The Bridget target has an interesting history as it was one of four top prospects that was first discovered back in 1972 when Silver Standard Mines conducted an extensive 14,000 plus regional silt survey looking for another Casino. During the large regional silt survey, Silver Standard also made the Minto Copper discovery and eventually focused all their attention on that target. I staked the Bridget prospect back in 2004, and since then the property has seen extensive soil sampling programs, airborne radiometric surveys and shallow RAB drilling. The soil sampling program revealed a large copper, molybdenum and bismuth soil anomaly. The molybdenum anomaly (2 to 322 ppm) measures 4 km by 1.7 km and coincides with a very discrete bismuth anomaly (2 to 154 ppm) of 3 km by 1.4 km and a copper core anomaly (50 to 711 ppm) measuring 2.8 km by 1.3 km. A deep penetrating dipole-dipole IP survey was undertaken in summer 2023 with one line over the core of the soil anomaly and the results clearly show a textbook porphyry geophysical signature of resistivity lows and chargeability high anomalies sitting below the anomalous soils. Its now recommended to follow up with more IP survey lines to cover this large developing porphyry target. I look forward to first diamond drill holes into this exciting target.

An overview of the Pedlar and Hayes properties, including the Bridget and Isaac targets, was provided previously in a news release dated April 5, 2023 which is available on the Companys website (https://whitegoldcorp.ca/news/) and on SEDAR+. Maps and images accompanying this news release can be found at http://whitegoldcorp.ca/investors/exploration-highlights/.

Highlights

The Bridget and Isaac targets represent large, early-stage, multi-element porphyry targets that have never been diamond drill tested.

Deep penetrating test IP survey lines conducted over existing soil geochemistry anomalies have identified a total of 13 chargeability anomalies, 5 at Bridget and 8 at Isaac.

The Bridget soil anomaly on the Pedlar property measures 3 km NW-SE by 3.5 km NE-SW and is interpreted to represent a copper-molybdenum porphyry target. It is geochemically zoned with a molybdenum-copper-bismuth core and a silver-zinc-lead-tungsten halo.

At Bridget, one 1 st priority and four 2 nd priority chargeability anomalies were identified, with target depths ranging from 40 to 330 m. The chargeability anomalies underly a large molybdenum-copper soil anomaly, and a zone of moderate to strong chargeability to the southwest appears to mark a controlling WNW (290) striking fault which correlates with anomalous lead-zinc-arsenic in soils.

priority and four 2 priority chargeability anomalies were identified, with target depths ranging from 40 to 330 m. The chargeability anomalies underly a large molybdenum-copper soil anomaly, and a zone of moderate to strong chargeability to the southwest appears to mark a controlling WNW (290) striking fault which correlates with anomalous lead-zinc-arsenic in soils. The Isaac soil anomaly on the Hayes property is a recently discovered target which measures 2 km E-W by 1.5 km N-S, and is interpreted to represent a copper-molybdenum porphyry target. It is geochemically zoned with a bismuth-arsenic-copper core and a silver-zinc-lead halo.

At Isaac, four 1 st priority, three 2 nd priority and one 3 rd priority chargeability anomalies were identified, with target depths ranging from 50 to 550 m. The bismuth and copper core of the soil anomaly is underlain by multiple chargeability anomalies (S1, S2, M1 and W1 on Line 1E) which sit above a resistivity low. Anomalous lead, zinc, and silver, which form a halo around the core, are coincident with fault structures on the south side and north side of the survey area which trend NE (065) and NW (290) respectively.

priority, three 2 priority and one 3 priority chargeability anomalies were identified, with target depths ranging from 50 to 550 m. The bismuth and copper core of the soil anomaly is underlain by multiple chargeability anomalies (S1, S2, M1 and W1 on Line 1E) which sit above a resistivity low. Anomalous lead, zinc, and silver, which form a halo around the core, are coincident with fault structures on the south side and north side of the survey area which trend NE (065) and NW (290) respectively. 2022 prospecting rock samples from both the Bridget and Isaac targets show anomalous trace element enrichments, including copper, molybdenum and silver, consistent with proximal porphyry copper-style mineralization.

Hyperspectral analysis results for the prosecting rock samples at both Bridget and Isaac show alteration mineralogy consistent with a porphyry deposit model.

The Company is currently planning its fully funded 2024 exploration program, focusing on its existing significant gold resources, new high grade gold discoveries and other high priority gold and multi-element targets. The Company will arrange a webinar to provide a more detailed overview of the 2023 exploration results and plans for 2024 at that time. Details to be announced in due course.



Regional Setting  The Dawson Range

The Dawson Range forms an east-southeast trending mountain range which hosts several important mineral deposits and prospects (Figure 2) including the Casino porphyry Copper-Gold deposit in the west. In the southeast near the community of Carmacks, the Minto Mine contains resources of 356 Mlb copper, 189 Koz gold, and 1.7 Moz silver in Indicated Resources and 370 Mlb copper, 207 Koz gold, and 1.9 Moz silver in Inferred Resources(5), and the Carmacks Copper project hosts 652 Mlb copper, 302 Koz gold, 3.8 Moz silver in Measured and Indicated Resources and 38 Mlb copper, 13 Koz gold, and 215 Koz silver in Inferred Resources(6) (Granite Creek Copper Ltd.), both interpreted to represent metamorphosed copper-gold-silver porphyry deposits. Porphyry deposits in the Dawson Range can be divided into 2 major ages, Late Triassic (Minto, Carmacks) and Late Cretaceous (Casino, Cash, Revenue). In addition to porphyry mineralization, epithermal, skarn, and polymetallic to gold-dominant mineralized veins, breccias and fracture zones also occur throughout the Dawson Range(7). In recent years this area has drawn increased attention and investment from both junior and major mining companies due to its high mineral potential.

2023 IP Surveys

In August 2023, Simcoe Geoscience Limited (Simcoe) carried out 7.2 line-km of time domain induced polarization (IP) chargeability and resistivity surveying at the Bridget and Isaac targets using their wireless 2D Alpha IP system (see About IP Survey below). At Bridget, a single 3.0 km long IP test line (line 1N) oriented NE-SW was completed using a dipole-dipole configuration. At Isaac, two IP test lines totaling 4.2 km long were oriented perpendicular to each other at NE-SW (line 4N) and NW-SE (line 1E) using a dipole-pole-dipole configuration. Both configurations can detect anomalies up to 600+ m depth.

IP Results

At Bridget, five chargeability anomalies were identified on Line 1N (Figure 3), including one 1st priority anomaly (S1) and four 2nd priority anomalies (M1-M4). Anomaly S1 has a target depth of 130 m and is characterized by strong chargeability and low resistivity. Target depths on the second priority anomalies range from 40 m (M3, M4) to a maximum of 330 m (M1). These are characterized by moderate to high chargeability and low to high resistivity.

The Bridget chargeability anomalies are plotted in relation to soil geochemistry results in Figure 4 (molybdenum, copper, lead, zinc) and Figure 5 (copper). The chargeability anomalies generally correspond with a zone of low resistivity which underlie a large molybdenum-copper soil anomaly. A zone of moderate (M1) to strong (S1) chargeability in the southwest delineates a controlling west-northwest (WNW, 290) striking fault structure, closely correlated with lead, zinc, and arsenic soil anomalies. To the northeast, a similar WNW (295) anomaly in lead, zinc, and arsenic defines the boundary of this chargeability anomaly and coincides with a significant tungsten anomaly, positioned along the northeastern fringe of a molybdenum anomaly. It is worth noting that in 2018 the Company drilled 10 short rotary air blast (RAB) drill holes totalling 548.6 m over the area between chargeability anomalies M2 and S1. However, these RAB holes were testing surface soil anomalies and drilled to a shallow maximum depth of only 70 m, hence the newly IP chargeability anomalies identified are completely untested.

At Isaac, 8 chargeability anomalies were identified on Lines 1E and 4N. Five anomalies occur on Line 1E (Figure 6), including three 1st priority anomalies (S1-S3), one 2nd priority anomaly (M1) and one 3rd priority anomaly (W1). The 1st priority anomalies are characterized by moderate chargeability and low to high resistivity. Target depths of the 1st priority anomalies range from 70 m (S3) to 250 m (S2). An additional three anomalies occur on Line 4N (Figure 7), including one 1st priority anomaly (S1) and two 2nd priority anomalies (M1-M2) (see Figure 7). Target depths of these chargeability anomalies range from 220  550 m.

The Isaac chargeability anomalies on Line 1E, oriented NW-SE, are plotted in relation to soil geochemistry results for select elements (bismuth, copper, lead, silver) in Figure 8. The bismuth anomaly appears to be controlled by faults interpreted from the IP resistivity data. The bismuth and copper core of the soil anomaly is underlain by multiple chargeability anomalies (S1, S2, M1 and W1) which sit above a resistivity low which is interpreted as a fault structure. Lead, zinc, and silver, which form a halo around the core, are coincident with fault structures on the south side and north side of the survey area which trend NE (065) and NW (290) respectively. Isaac is a recently recognized (2021) target and has never been drilled tested.

2023 Hyperspectral Analysis & Results

During 2023, crushed coarse rejects from 2022 prospecting rock samples from the Pedlar and Hayes properties were analyzed with an ASD TerraSpec 4 Hi-Res Mineral Spectrometer. Results were uploaded and processed using IMDEXs aiSIRIS cloud-based mineral interpretation AI software to produce semi-quantitative, standardized mineral interpretations and analytics (see About Hyperspectral Analysis below).

The Hyperspectral analysis results for the prosecting rock samples show alteration mineralogy consistent with a porphyry deposit model.

A total of 17 prospecting rock samples were collected at the Bridget target and 19 samples at the Isaac target. Samples from both the Bridget and Isaac targets show anomalous trace element enrichments, including copper, molybdenum and silver, consistent with proximal porphyry copper-style mineralization. Hyperspectral data for the Isaac target samples provide evidence for phyllic alteration characterized by muscovite and potassic alteration, with evidence of propylitic alteration found only on the southern edge of the sampled area where significant chlorite is observed. The Bridget samples show no evidence of phyllic alteration, however most samples show both geochemical and hyperspectral evidence for widespread propylitic alteration involving epidote, chlorite and albite, as well as minor potassic alteration.

Next Steps

The Company is encouraged by the success of the IP test lines in detecting chargeability and resistivity anomalies beneath the soil geochemistry anomalies at the Bridget and Isaac targets at depths from 40m to 550m below surface. These results warrant full IP survey coverage over the target areas which will aid in identifying targets at depth in support of future diamond drill testing.

About the Bridget Target

The Bridget target area is located on the Pedlar property and was first explored by Silver Standard Mines Ltd. (Silver Standard) and Asarco Exploration Company of Canada Ltd. (Asarco) in the early 1970s following the discovery of the Casino Copper-Gold-Molybdenum porphyry deposit. A series of regional silt samples, soil sampling, and geophysical surveys by Silver Standard in 1971 and 1972 led to the discovery of a significant molybdenum-copper geochemical anomaly, now known as the Bridget target. Historical exploration work between 2004 and 2016 included soil sampling, prospecting, geological mapping, and geophysical surveys. In 2016 the Company acquired ownership of the property and has continued to expand the large multi-element (molybdenum, copper, bismuth, tungsten, lead, silver) soil geochemical anomaly that currently measures 3 km NW-SE by 4.3 km NE-SW. In 2018, a maiden rotary air blast (RAB) drilling program comprising 10 holes totalling 548.6 m was completed; however, the RAB holes were short testing to a maximum vertical depth of only 70 m, well short of potential porphyry mineralization at depth beneath the anomalous soils. Porphyry targets characterized by IP chargeability high anomalies remain completely untested.

About the Isaac Target

The Isaac target is located on the Hayes property and was first recognized by the Company as a prospective porphyry target in 2021 through soil sampling. Gridded soil sampling (50 m spaced samples on 100 m spaced survey lines) was conducted in an area located approximately 5 km south of the Yukon River where a 2017 reconnaissance soil survey identified several isolated anomalous ridge and spur soil samples. The 2021 sampling identified a new geochemically zoned multi-element soil anomaly named the Isaac target, which measures approximately 2 km east-west by 1.5 km north-south. The anomaly has a central core measuring from 750 m to 1,000 m in diameter and enriched in bismuth and arsenic, which is surrounded by a halo of anomalous silver, lead and zinc that is greater than 400 m wide. Anomalous copper occurs in the southern portion of the core, and a relatively small area of anomalous molybdenum occurs near the cores northern margin. Geologically the soil anomaly is associated with a plug of Late Cretaceous Prospector Mountain suite, which is known to be prospective for porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum and epithermal style mineralization. The geochemical zonation and elemental distributions indicate that the anomaly may represent the surface expression of a copper-molybdenum porphyry core surrounded by distal or epithermal style silver-lead-zinc mineralization. Follow-up geological mapping and prospecting in 2022 at the Isaac target area returned anomalous copper values from the core area of the soil anomaly, with three grab samples returning from 730.6  1269.2 ppm Copper.

About Hyperspectral Analysis

Crushed coarse rejects from 2022 prospecting rock samples were analyzed with an ASD TerraSpec 4 Hi-Res Mineral Spectrometer by Bureau Veritas Commodities Canada Ltd. at their preparation laboratory in Whitehorse, Yukon. Results were uploaded and processed using IMDEXs aiSIRIS cloud-based mineral interpretation AI software to produce semi-quantitative, standardized mineral interpretations and analytics. TerraSpec and aiSIRIS data were reviewed and interpreted by Dr. Dennis Arne, a principal consulting geochemist with Telemark Geosciences Pty Ltd, a geological consulting services company based in Victoria, Australia.

About IP Survey

The 2023 IP surveys were completed by Simcoe Geoscience Limited (Simcoe) using their wireless time domain 2D Alpha IP system (https://www.simcoegeoscience.com/wireless-alpha-ip). Survey data was recorded in a Reverse & Forward array configuration with readings taken every 100 m along the line. A dipole-dipole configuration was used at the Bridget target, and a dipole-pole-dipole configuration at the Isaac target. Once the IP data satisfied the QA/QC process, the entire survey line file was exported into UBC format to run the model 2D inversions. Results were reviewed, interpreted and chargeability anomalies ranked by Simcoes in-house geophysicist.

About White Gold Corp.

The Company owns a portfolio of 15,876 quartz claims across 26 properties covering approximately 315,000 hectares (3,150 km2) representing over 40% of the Yukons emerging White Gold District. The Companys flagship White Gold project hosts four near-surface gold deposits which collectively contain an estimated 1,152,900 ounces of gold in Indicated Resources and 942,400 ounces of gold in Inferred Resources(1). Regional exploration work has also produced several other new discoveries and prospective targets on the Companys claim packages which border sizable gold discoveries including the Coffee project owned by Newmont Corporation with Measured and Indicated Resources of 2.1 Moz at 1.28 g/t gold and Inferred Resources of 0.2 Moz at 1.0 g/t gold(2), and Western Copper and Gold Corporations Casino project which has Measured and Indicated Resources of 7.6 Blb copper and 14.5 Moz gold and Inferred Resources of 3.3 Blb copper and 6.6 Moz gold(3). For more information visit www.whitegoldcorp.ca.

(1) See White Gold Corp. technical report titled 2023 Technical Report for the White Gold Project, Dawson Range, Yukon, Canada , Effective Date April 15, 2023, Report Date May 30, 2023, NI 43-101 Compliant Technical Report prepared by Dr. Gilles Arseneau, P.Geo., available on SEDAR+.

(2) See Newmont Corporation Form 10-K: Annual report for the year ending December 31, 2023, in the Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Resources section, dated February 29, 2024, available on EDGAR. Reserves and resources disclosed in this Form 10-K have been prepared in accordance with the Regulation S-K 1300, and do not indicate NI43-101 compliance.

(3) See Western Copper and Gold Corporation technical report titled Casino project, Form 43-101F1 Technical Report Feasibility Study, Yukon Canada, Effective Date June 13, 2022, Issue Date August 8, 2022, NI 43-101 Compliant Technical Report prepared by Daniel Roth, PE, P.Eng., Mike Hester, F Aus IMM, John M. Marek, P.E., Laurie M. Tahija, MMSA-QP, Carl Schulze, P.Geo., Daniel Friedman, P.Eng., Scott Weston, P.Geo., available on SEDAR+.

(5) See Minto Metals Corp. technical report titled Form 43-101F1 Preliminary Economic Assessment Technical Report, Minto, Yukon Canada, Effective Date March 31, 2021, Report Date May 7, 2021, prepared by Dino Pilotto, P.Eng., Tysen Hantelmann, P. Eng., Mike Levy, P.E., Sue Bird, P. Eng., Carl Schulze, P. Geo., Tad Crowie, P. Eng., Cheibany Elemine, Ph. D., P. Geo., Sam Amiralaei, P. Eng., John Kurylo, P. Eng., available on SEDAR.

(6) See Granite Creek Copper Ltd. technical report titled Updated Mineral Resource Estimates for the Carmacks Cu-Au-Ag Project Near Carmacks, Yukon, Canada, Effective Date February 25, 2022, Report Date April 29, 2022, prepared by Allan Armitage, Ph. D., P. Geo., available on SEDAR.

(7) Allan, M.M., Mortensen, J.K., Hart, C.J.R., Bailey, L.A., Sanchez, M.G., Ciolkiewicz, W., McKenzie, G.G. and Creaser, R.A., 2013, Magmatic and Metallogenic Framework of West-Central Yukon and Eastern Alaska: Society of Economic Geologists, Special Publication 17, pp. 111-168.

Qualified Person

Terry Brace, P.Geo. and Vice President of Exploration for the Company is a qualified person as defined under National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects and has reviewed and approved the content of this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information

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, proposed, 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 relate, among other things, the Companys objectives, goals and exploration activities conducted and proposed to be conducted at the Companys properties; future growth potential of the Company, including whether any proposed exploration programs at any of the Companys properties will be successful; exploration results; and future exploration plans and costs and financing availability.

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:

The expected benefits to the Company relating to the exploration conducted and proposed to be conducted at the White Gold properties; the receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals for the Offering; failure to identify any additional mineral resources or significant mineralization; the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, including to fund any exploration programs on the Companys properties; business integration risks; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, silver, base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar to United States dollar exchange rate); change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining and mineral exploration; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); the unlikelihood that properties that are explored are ultimately developed into producing mines; geological factors; actual results of current and future exploration; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated; soil sampling results being preliminary in nature and are not conclusive evidence of the likelihood of a mineral deposit; title to properties; ongoing uncertainties relating to the COVID-19 pandemic; and those factors described under the heading Risks Factors in the Companys annual information form dated July 29, 2020 available on SEDAR+. 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. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information, or the material factors or assumptions used to develop such forward-looking information, will prove to be accurate. The Company does not undertake to release publicly any revisions for updating any voluntary forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable securities law.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

For Further Information, Please Contact:

Contact Information:

David DOnofrio

Chief Executive Officer

White Gold Corp.

(647) 930-1880

ir@whitegoldcorp.ca

Request Meeting: https://calendly.com/meet-with-wgo/15min

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3565ebca-7da2-4641-903a-09b492f865d7

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/277ca605-08b7-4985-9f92-6b56ba50d2a7

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LEIPZIG, Germany, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- pi3g GmbH & Co. KG introduces new web-based Terminal and File Editor Apps to its PiCockpit.com platform, enhancing Raspberry Pi remote management with an updated Script Scheduler, Video Streaming App, and the PiCockpit Pro Plus plan for custom software needs. These innovations reflect pi3g's dedication to simplifying and boosting productivity for global business users without the need for in-depth Linux expertise. In particular, teams with a Windows background require less training and specialized skills when using PiCockpit to manage the company's Raspberry Pi fleet, resulting in substantial time and cost savings for the business.



The PiCockpit Terminal App offers a seamless web-based terminal interface, eliminating the need for complex setup or additional software like PuTTY. Leveraging WebRTC technology, it ensures a secure, encrypted connection for managing all Raspberry Pi devices from any location. This app simplifies remote device management for businesses, enabling straightforward web-based remote access beyond the limitations of traditional methods.

The File Editor App, enhanced with RaspiGPT technology powered by OpenAI's GPT-4, simplifies file and directory management on Raspberry Pis. By accessing PiCockpit.com, users can remotely edit files from any web browser. This app provides smart assistance for script writing, log analysis, and file content explanation, streamlining file management and speeding up business development processes.

PiCockpit: Simplified management, reduced costs

Maximilian Batz, founder of pi3g, stated, Our goal has always been to make Raspberry Pi management as accessible and efficient as possible. The launch of our new PiCockpit apps, along with enhancements to our existing services, represents a significant step forward in achieving that goal. Were particularly excited about the possibilities that RaspiGPT opens up, streamlining tasks that previously required extensive technical knowledge.

PiCockpits Pro Plan introduces a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to scale their operations beyond the first five free Pis. With Two Factor Authentication, PiCockpit ensures secure access to user accounts and their Raspberry Pis. PiCockpit Pro Plus takes customization to the next level, offering bespoke software development and system integration services. This plan is not just an offering but a partnership, providing businesses with a tailored solution that meshes seamlessly with existing systems, paving the way for significant cost savings and operational efficiencies.

About PiCockpit

PiCockpit.com is a comprehensive web interface designed to simplify the management and operation of Raspberry Pi devices. Offering a range of applications including PiStats, Video Streaming, Script Scheduler, Terminal, and File Editor, PiCockpit enables users to monitor performance, schedule scripts, stream Raspberry Pi cameras, and manage files from anywhere in the world.

About pi3g

Based in Leipzig, Germany, pi3g has been involved in the Raspberry Pi ecosystem since its very beginning in 2012. As an official Raspberry Pi approved reseller, pi3g offers a comprehensive suite of services for businesses, including hardware sourcing, software development, hardware development and consulting.

Further information:

picockpit.com

+49 (0)341 392 858 48

info@picockpit.com

Press contact:

FRANKEMEDIA

info@frankemedia.com

+49 (0)89 20042748

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5ef88b1c-6362-4f5c-85da-47f37762929a
CLEVELAND, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Champ Titles, Inc., the leading provider of digital vehicle title, registration, and lien systems of record in the United States, announced today it has raised $18 million in Series C financing. Point72 Ventures led the round and was joined by existing investors W.R. Berkley Corporation, Eos Venture Partners, Guidewire Software, and Rev1 Ventures, among others. To date, Champ Titles has raised more than $45 million.



Champ Titles will use the funds to fuel its ongoing growth. Through its Digital Title and Registration Suite (DTRS), Champ partners with state governments to improve motor vehicle departments by replacing aging title and registration systems. This capital will allow the company to take on as many new clients as the market will bear.

We made tremendous progress over this past yearwe onboarded new states, including New Jersey, Kentucky and Illinois, expanded our relationship with West Virginia by creating the first National Digital Titling Clearinghouse (NDTC), and grew revenue by more than 300%. We could have continued growing at a measured pace, but we are incredibly excited and grateful to have this round of financing to accelerate our business as we enter our next phase of growth with our great state DMV partners, said Shane Bigelow, Chief Executive Officer.

The current title management process is largely paper-based, error-prone and requires significant time and effort from all parties involved, said Adam Carson, Partner at Point72 Ventures. We believe Champ Titles platform offers a comprehensive and simplified solution for state DMVs and addresses a longstanding pain point. We are excited to be part of their journey.

Since its founding in 2018, Champ Titles has distinguished itself as a true partner to state government. Its SaaS-based solutions require no upfront cost, utilize a pay-as-you-transact model, can be launched quickly, and are continuously improved. The success of which can be measured by the elimination of more than 5 million pieces of paper annually on average per state; the reduction of processing time from 40-60 days to a matter of hours for industry participants such as car dealers, lenders, insurance carriers, as well as fleets; the increased productivity of DMV title clerks processing more than five times as many titles per day; and, of course, the improved experience for consumers in each state that has adopted Champs solutions.

This round in addition to our recent wins with DTRS and NDTC, which allows automotive retailers, fleets, and insurance carriers to transfer titles from any vehicle in any state, are further proof points that our innovative approach to technology and to government partnerships are resonating, said Bigelow. We are proud of these pioneering characteristics and are confident they will ensure our continued success.

About Champ Titles, Inc.

Founded in 2018, Champ Titles is a leading provider of digital vehicle title and registration services. The companys patented SaaS (Software as a Service) technology is built for government to solve the problems faced by its constituents, which include vehicle retailers, vehicle wholesalers, insurance carriers, fleet operators, lenders, all the service providers that serve each of these industry verticals, and, of course, consumers. Champs solutions, including the Digital Title and Registration Suite and the National Digital Titling Clearinghouse, are big steps forward toward a paperless, environmentally friendly, digital, secure, frictionless future in titling. To learn more about Champ Titles and its digitization technologies, please visit www.champtitles.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/49a1d14d-bce7-445e-836e-ce6e91d54d0d
Fayetteville, Ark., March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AcreTrader , the platform offering investors access to the farmland asset class, exited a Vermillion County, IL corn and soybean row crop farm to provide an internal rate of return (IRR) of 10.4% to investors upon exit. This offering was funded on the AcreTrader platform in December 2022 and was sold in January 2024.

This exit yielded a return that surpassed the anticipated target for AcreTrader investors, attributable to a competitive entry price with consideration to comparable sales for properties of similar size and quality in the same region, consistent management, and favorable market conditions for farmland investments. This exited offering was not conducted by AcreTrader Financial, LLC, registered broker-dealer, member of FINRA|SIPC.

"The returns on farmland asset class investments thrive on the limited supply of premium farmland, as well as the increasing demands to sustain a growing global population's need for food, fuel, and fiber. Leveraging the informational advantage of the Acres platform alongside our local acquisition network and the thorough diligence of our underwriting team, we aim to offer investors access to this vital asset class," states AcreTrader Director of Investments, Drew Lipke.

The 80-acre farm was sold concurrently with the sale of other local AcreTrader-managed farms, resulting in a quicker-than-anticipated and favorable exit for investors.

AcreTrader is experienced in deploying its aggregation strategy in Illinois as it manages over four thousand acres of soil across the northern half of Illinois. Just under half of these acres are in northeast Illinois , east of the Illinois River. In addition to increasing exit optionality, aggregation fosters essential relationships with local farmers and experts, uncovering off-market opportunities, before they are officially listed by a real estate broker or agent on a public Multiple Listing Service, and deepening insights into regional land markets, which we believe can potentially result in more lucrative market results.

Farmland investments have demonstrated resilience in the face of market volatility, delivering historically consistent returns during recent decades' economic downturns such as the Dotcom Crash, the Great Financial Crisis, and the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition to its historical investment performance and its low volatility, farmland as an asset classs performance has garnered increasing interest as an alternative investment.*





About AcreTrader

AcreTrader empowers customers to analyze land and invest with advanced technology, data, and expertise. AcreTrader Financial, LLC, is a registered broker dealer, member FINRA/SIPC, offering access to farmland investing to accredited investors through its platform. For more information, including our terms of use, privacy policy, and risk factors, find out more by visiting acretrader.com.

Note that Investors in Acretrader 223, LLC purchased shares in an entity that purchased the farm but did not purchase actual acreage of the farm directly.

Alternative investments are considered speculative, involve a high degree of risk, including complete loss of principal and are not suitable for all investors. Learn more about the risks of investing in farmland and the nature of the asset class by looking at our general risk factors. Investments are illiquid, not listed on an exchange, and not a short-term investment. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The above content is not intended to be a comparison between products, but is intended for general, educational and informational purposes only. Investment decisions should be made based on an investors objectives and circumstances and in consultation with your financial or tax professional. Farmland investments are also subject to additional risks including volatility in commodity prices, weather events or disease that could damage crops and many other operational factors.

These exited offerings were not conducted by AcreTrader Financial, LLC, registered broker-dealer, member of FINRA|SIPC. The IRR calculations displayed above assume the start date of the investment was on the closing date for the land acquisition and all other cash flows were recognized on the date Acretrader Management, LLC made the distributions to members. These calculations were i) made after the SPV was dissolved and all outstanding fees and taxes were paid; and ii) made solely at the entity level and may not be reflective of any investor's specific IRR which may differ based on factors specific to each such investor. Any hold period generally represents the time between the closing date for the land acquisition and the date the land was sold. Note that the information above is not intended as investment advice, nor is it a guarantee of any future performance or results.

*Source: NCREIF Farmland Index 1990-2022. Past performance does not guarantee future results and there is no guarantee this trend will continue. You cannot invest directly in an index.

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Attachment
The 10% CBD (THC free) proprietary oral formulation branded as RHO Phyto Micro Drop 100 in Canada



RHO Phyto Micro Drop 100 is available exclusively at MyMedi.ca.

TORONTO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avicanna Inc. (Avicanna or the Company) (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF) (FSE: 0NN) a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products is pleased to announce the launch of RHO Phyto Micro Drop 100, a 10% CBD (THC free), proprietary oral formulation in Canada. RHO Phyto Micro Drop 100, is designed to deliver enhanced absorption of cannabinoids through an inverted emulsion technology. RHO Phyto Micro Drop 100 will be available to Canadian patients with medical authorization exclusively at the MyMedi.ca medical cannabis care platform.

RHO Phyto Micro Drop 100 contains the same proprietary oral formulation as the product Trunerox. Trunerox received drug approval in Colombia, earlier this year in February 2024, from the Colombian National Institute of Drug and Food Surveillance (El Instituto Nacional de Vigilancia de Medicamentos y Alimentos  INVIMA). Trunerox is approved by INVIMA in Colombia as a drug for the treatment for severe seizures related to Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome and Dravet Syndrome. Trunerox has not been approved as a drug in Canada by Health Canada.

The Company continues to support the advancement of research and development of plant-derived cannabinoid based products and continues to support the advancement of various scientific-medical initiatives. The Company will be hosting its 4th Medical Symposium on cannabinoid-based medicine in the Canadian Healthcare System on May 13, 2024 for health care practitioners, scientists, researchers, and the medical community.

About Avicanna Inc.

Avicanna is a commercial-stage international biopharmaceutical company focused on the advancement and commercialization of evidence-based cannabinoid-based products for the global medical and pharmaceutical market segments. Avicanna has an established scientific platform including R&D and clinical development that has led to the commercialization of more than thirty products across various market segments:

Medical Cannabis & Wellness Products (RHO Phyto): The formulary offers a diverse range of proprietary formulations including oral, sublingual, topical, and transdermal deliveries with varying ratios of cannabinoids and is supported with ongoing patient, and medical community education. RHO Phyto has been established as a leading medical brand in Canada and is currently available nationwide to patients across several medical channels and continues to expand into new international markets.



Pharmaceutical Preparations and Pipeline: Leveraging Avicannas scientific platform, vertical integration, and real-world evidence, Avicanna has developed an extensive a pipeline of patent-pending drug candidates that are indication-specific and in various stages of clinical development and commercialization. These cannabinoid-based drug candidates look to address unmet medical needs in the areas of dermatology, chronic pain, and various neurological disorders. Avicannas first pharmaceutical preparation (Trunerox) is approved in Colombia and is in registration stage in other South American markets.



MyMedi.ca Medical Cannabis Care: MyMedi.ca is a medical cannabis care platform formed with the aim to better serve medical cannabis patients needs and enhance the patient journey. MyMedi.ca is operated by Northern Green Canada Inc., and features a diverse portfolio of products and pharmacist-led patient support programs. MyMedi.ca also provides specialty services to distinct patient groups such as veterans and collaborates with public and private providers for adjudication and reimbursement. MyMedi.ca provides educational resources to facilitate the incorporation of medical cannabis into health care regimens.



SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit our website , contact Ivana Maric by email at info@avicanna.com or follow us on social media on LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook , or Instagram .

The Company posts updates through videos from the Company YouTube channel.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may be identified using words such as, may, would, could, will, likely, expect, anticipate, believe, intend, plan, forecast, project, estimate, outlook and other similar expressions. Although the Company 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 the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to current and future market conditions, including the market price of the common shares of the Company, and the risk factors set out in the Companys annual information form dated March 31, 2023 filed with the Canadian securities regulators and available under the Companys profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.
Dublin, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "US Pharmaceutical Market Size and Forecast (2020 - 2030), Regional Share, Trend, and Growth Opportunity Analysis Report Coverage: By Product (Vaccines, Biologics & Biosimilars, and Small Molecules)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The US pharmaceutical market is projected to grow from US$ 846.72 billion in 2022 to US$ 1.28 trillion by 2030, representing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.36% from 2022 to 2030. The growth of the US pharmaceutical market is driven by rising workplace-associated disorders, an increase in pharmaceutical production capacity, greater approvals of generic drugs, and escalating R&D investments. However, the high costs associated with drug development and marketing approval hinder the growth of the US pharmaceutical market.

Increasing Adoption of AI-based Tools for Drug Discovery

Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a crucial tool in the healthcare sector, aiding in understanding the action mechanism of drugs. AI tools have demonstrated the ability to accelerate the process of discovering new candidate therapeutics, reducing what previously took years to accomplish to mere months. Beyond expediting drug discovery timelines, AI enhances research process agility, improves prediction accuracy regarding drug safety and efficacy, and boosts the speed and precision of discovery and preclinical testing, providing a competitive edge to R&D strategies.

Many pharmaceutical companies are collaborating with AI companies to harness the benefits of AI in drug discovery. For instance, in 2019, Pfizer partnered with Concreto HealthAI to advance its work in precision oncology using AI and real-world data. The company believes that AI tools hold tremendous potential in developing and utilizing drugs to enhance patient outcomes. Additionally, in 2022, Pfizer extended its partnership with CytoReason to leverage its AI technology for improving drug candidate discovery and development processes.

Similarly, in 2019, Janssen collaborated with a French startup Iktos Pharmaceuticals to develop an AI-powered drug design system. Janssen's new drug design system will enhance the process of discovering new medications by accelerating molecule identification. Additionally, in January 2020, Bayer partnered with a UK-based AI-driven drug discovery company to utilize the AI drug discovery platform to identify and optimize novel structures as potential drug candidates to treat cardiovascular and oncological diseases. Similarly, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) collaborated with Insilico Medicine, a Baltimore-based AI-driven company, to explore Insilico's AI capabilities for streamlining the identification of novel biological targets.

Therefore, the growing adoption of AI-based tools for drug discovery is expected to propel the growth of the US pharmaceutical market during the forecast period.

Product-based Insights

The US pharmaceutical market, segmented by product, includes vaccines, biologicals & biosimilars, and small molecules. The small molecules segment is further divided into generic and branded. The small molecules segment held the largest market share in 2022. The biologicals & biosimilars segment is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. In the US pharmaceutical market, biosimilars treat patients with cancers, kidney diseases, diabetes, and other autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease. Biologics are the most expensive medicines in the US pharmaceutical market, costing tens of thousands of dollars yearly per patient. Biosimilars are expected to be priced 15-30% lower than their reference products.

In 2020 alone, biosimilars saved US$ 7.9 billion, with savings expected to grow significantly in the next few years as more biosimilars enter the market. According to Cardinal Health, biosimilars are expected to reduce US drug expenditure by US$ 133 billion by 2025. The recognition of biosimilars as efficacious and safe agents by patients, specialists, primary care clinicians, and other healthcare professionals is propelling the demand for biosimilars. Additionally, biosimilars help improve the quality of life among millions of patients while saving billions of dollars for healthcare systems annually. They have emerged as potent and cost-effective options for treating many diseases, including chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and colitis, diabetes, autoimmune disease, cancer, kidney conditions, and arthritis.

During 2017-2018, the National Health Service (NHS) saved US$ 401.10 million by switching from 10 expensive medicines to better-value and equally effective alternatives such as biologics, with even more savings expected in the future. The potential savings from using biosimilars can also be allocated to fund other new treatments. With the high prevalence of chronic diseases, the demand for biosimilars in treating life-threatening illnesses has rapidly surged over the last five years, aiding the growth of the US pharmaceutical market and expected to continue in the forecast period.

Country Analysis

In recent years, pharmaceutical sales revenues in the US have accounted for nearly half of the global total. Five of the top 10 pharmaceutical companies worldwide were from the US in 2021. Pfizer is one of the companies providing prescription drug revenues globally, heavily boosted by its COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty. AbbVie is another US pharmaceutical market participant that has made a great impression worldwide, with the pharmaceutical segment generating a record US$ 55 billion in 2021, driven especially by its longstanding top-selling brand Humira. Despite the influence of several emerging countries, the US has captured a dominant share of the global pharmaceutical market. The US pharmaceutical market is home to a few major pharma companies worldwide. Most advanced US pharmaceutical market products are easily accessible to American consumers, albeit at a cost.

The US pharmaceutical market accounts for about 45% of the global pharmaceutical market and 22% of global production. US pharmaceuticals output and sales remained robust in 2022, driven by the global vaccination rollout and suppressed demand for essential and non-essential medical treatments. The US pharmaceutical market has made significant strides over the past few decades due to a greater focus on research and development (R&D). Pharma companies spend over 21% of their revenues on R&D, and this substantial investment is wasted if a medication does not receive regulatory approval. The R&D expenditure of the US pharmaceutical market totaled some US$ 102 billion in 2021. This figure is expected to increase significantly in the coming years due to the costs of developing effective and safe COVID-19 treatments and vaccines.

Key Attributes

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 292 Forecast Period 2022-2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $846.72 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $1285.79 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 5.3% Regions Covered United States

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes:

Moderna Inc.

AbbVie Inc.

Gilead Sciences Inc.

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Merck & Co. Inc.

Abbott Laboratories

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Pfizer Inc.

Eli Lilly and Co.

Bayer AG

Johnson & Johnson

Amgen Inc.

Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.

Zoetis Inc.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/2mrpv7

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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by Dana Halawi





Its not easy to rely on the support from others, but sometimes we barely have food to feed our hunger, said Nahida Ajam, a Palestinian refugee living in Lebanons Mar Elias camp, after receiving a bag of bread from a man who provides food out of kindness during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.





This photo, taken on March 22, 2024, shows Mohammad Salem, a Palestinian refugee with his family at the Mar Elias Camp in Beirut who suffers from chronic kidney disease. (Photo by Dana Halawi/Xinhua)





The continued financial crisis in Lebanon has exacerbated the already strained life of thousands of Palestinian refugees in Lebanons camps, who depend on the generosity of goodwill people to put food on their Ramadan tables.





Prices soared remarkably compared to previous years, said Ajam.





Hoda Salem, a 53-year-old Palestinian refugee, works as a cleaner with a salary of 150 U.S. dollars per month. She said two-thirds of her income goes to the electricity bills, leaving only 50 dollars to cover food costs for her and two unemployed sisters.





Our neighborhoods help us with some food, but its never enough, Salem told Xinhua, fearing that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) will suspend her quarterly subsidy of 150 U.S. dollars.





If so, we wont have food to eat, she said.





According to UNRWA, in Lebanon alone, it provides education for about 40,000 students and its clinics receive around 600,000 patient visits annually.





Moreover, the agency offers services, including maintenance of water as well as sewer and stormwater systems in 12 refugee camps, in addition to basic cash assistance to 65 percent of Palestine refugees in Lebanon, focusing on vulnerable people, children, the elderly and the disabled.





However, the UN agency is currently on the brink of collapse as several countries suspended their funding, following Israeli claims that some UNRWA employees participated in the Hamas-led attacks last October.





On several occasions, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has urged donor countries to reconsider their decisions to stop funding the UNRWA, specifically in Lebanon, which is suffering from a severe economic crisis.





Fadi al-Tayyar, the public information officer at the UNRWA in Lebanon, stressed that given UNRWAs operational approach to offering government-like services, no other organization in Lebanon can fill the gap in providing basic services.





He told Xinhua that the agency does not have a plan B if it runs out of funding, and its dismantling in light of the regions deep economic crises will have not only humanitarian but also security implications.





Ola Boutros, senior advisor to the minister of social affairs, noted that the decrease in UNRWA funding burdens the Lebanese government, considering its financial inability in light of the compounded financial crises since 2019, which has plunged 82 percent of the population into multidimensional poverty.
Evidens 17th Security Operations Center located in Mexico to leverage global cybersecurity capabilities for real, local impact

Paris, France  March 27, 2024  Eviden, the Atos Group business leading in digital, cloud, big data and security, today announces the opening of its new Security Operations Center (SOC) in Monterrey, Mexico, to enable advanced cybersecurity services to organizations across North and South America. The Mexico center is Evidens 17th next-generation SOC worldwide, ultimately strengthening the powerful global SOC network.

The increasing number of cyberattacks in todays business environment are becoming more sophisticated. Evidens Security Operations Centers serve as a key differentiator to managing business risk by transforming security environments from highly siloed to holistic, advanced operations.

Evidens Mexico SOC will provide customers with its Managed Detection and Response (MDR) solutions to detect and mitigate threats, and then enable customers with informed, prescriptive responses for proactive safety. The advanced MDR solution, powered by Evidens next-generation artificial intelligence platform AIsaac Cyber Mesh, provides threat intelligence, threat hunting, security monitoring, incident analysis, threat containment and full-service response to tackle todays emerging threats. In a continued effort to innovate and apply next-level solutions to its global SOCs, Eviden launched a sovereign data version of its MDR service, ensuring that client data remains in the same geography. The classic cloud-native version of Evidens MDR service is now 100% carbon neutral.

Chris Moret, Global Head of Cybersecurity Services at Eviden, Atos Group said In order to address and evaluate local customer needs with technical, top tier and effective cyber operations, we have expanded our SOC network to establish a regional center based in Monterrey. The new center will collaborate with the strong ecosystem of our global SOCs across Europe, Asia, Middle East and US, aiding our ambitions to continue to grow our cybersecurity business, and in turn, make positive impacts for our clients safety and security.

Evidens global network of SOCs leverages Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRT) to block and neutralize cyber-attacks in real-time across industries. Each SOC is designed to rapidly identify and limit the impact of security incidents for large organizations using 24/7/365 threat monitoring, detection and targeted responses.

With a global team of more than 6,500 security specialists and a worldwide network of 17 SOCs, Eviden offers end-to-end Digital Security.

***

About Eviden1

Eviden is a next-gen technology leader in data-driven, trusted and sustainable digital transformation with a strong portfolio of patented technologies. With worldwide leading positions in advanced computing, security, AI, cloud and digital platforms, it provides deep expertise for all industries in more than 47 countries. Bringing together 47,000 world-class talents, Eviden expands the possibilities of data and technology across the digital continuum, now and for generations to come. Eviden is an Atos Group company with an annual revenue of c.  5 billion.

About Atos

Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 95,000 employees and annual revenue of c.  11 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 69 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea), and listed on Euronext Paris.

The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

Press contacts:

Americas: Maggie Wainscott | maggie.wainscott@eviden.com

Global: Judith Sautereau  judith.sautereau@eviden.com - +33679151787

1 Eviden business is operated through the following brands: AppCentrica, ATHEA, Cloudamize, Cloudreach, Cryptovision, DataSentics, Edifixio, Energy4U, Engage ESM, Evidian, Forensik, IDEAL GRP, In Fidem, Ipsotek, Maven Wave, Profit4SF, SEC Consult, Visual BI, Worldgrid, X-Perion. Eviden is a registered trademark.

Eviden is a registered trademark.  Eviden SAS, 2024.

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Alpharetta, Georgia, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stryten Energy LLC, a U.S.-based energy storage solutions provider, has once again been named Vendor of the Year by Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas, one of the world's leading manufacturers and providers of material handling, automation and fleet solutions.

Winners of the Vendor of the Year award are chosen based on their performance, along with growth building attributes demonstrated consistently throughout the year. For the second consecutive year, Stryten Energy is the only battery manufacturer to receive this honor.

We are honored to be recognized by Logisnext as a preferred partner for lift truck batteries, chargers and battery accessories, said Matt Gould, Vice President, Industrial Sales and Service, at Stryten Energy. Receiving this award again reflects our pledge to provide our customers with the competitive edge they need to achieve their goals.

We would like to congratulate Stryten Energy on receiving the MLA Service & Aftermarket Parts Vendor of the Year award, and we look forward to continued success and collaboration in the future, said John Lamancusa, Preferred Partner Programs Manager at Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas. Their dedication to excellence has made a significant impact on our organization, and we are honored to have them as a preferred partner.

About Stryten Energy

Stryten Energy helps solve the worlds most pressing energy challenges with a broad range of energy storage solutions across the Essential Power, Motive Power, Transportation, Military and Government sectors. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, we partner with some of the worlds most recognized companies to meet the growing demand for reliable and sustainable energy storage capacity. Stryten powers everything from submarines to subcompacts, microgrids, warehouses, distribution centers, cars, trains and trucks. Our stored energy technologies include advanced lead, lithium and vanadium redox flow batteries, intelligent chargers and energy performance management software that keep people on the move and supply chains running. An industry leader backed by more than a century of expertise, Stryten has The Energy to Challenge the status quo and deliver top-performing energy solutions for today and tomorrow. Learn more at stryten.com.

About Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas

Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas Inc. and its group companies have helped customers Move The World Forward for more than 100 years. A technology-driven manufacturer, Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas offers scalable solutions from material handling to automation and extensive fleet support. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, its complete portfolio of advanced solutions spans across five leading brands  Mitsubishi forklift trucks, Cat lift trucks, Rocla AGV Solutions, UniCarriers Forklifts and Jungheinrich warehouse and automation products. All products are backed by an extensive dealer network offering industry-leading customer service and product support. Learn more at LogisnextAmericas.com.

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CHICAGO , March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Giordanos, Chicagos hometown iconic deep-dish pizza brand, is celebrating its milestone 50th anniversary with an ode to the city that put the brand on the map. Established in 1974, Giordano's has become synonymous with deep-dish pizza excellence, attracting not only locals but visitors across the world. In honor of this landmark moment, the world-famous Chicago staple is kicking off its golden year with special 50th Anniversary offers and events for all customers, paying homage to the beloved city where it all started.



Starting on April 2 and continuing through May 28, 2024, Giordanos will offer an exclusive 50% discount on any pizza purchase every Tuesday. As a way to say thank you to its beloved customers, this promotion will be available exclusively for dine-in guests at all of Giordanos full-service locations.

Giordanos owes its existence to the unwavering love and dedication the Chicago community has shown us since 1974. This extraordinary milestone would not be possible otherwise, said Giordanos CEO Yorgo Koutsogiorgas. As we reflect on our roots and look towards the next 50 years, we want to pay tribute and rightfully thank our loyal customers and visitors through special offerings for the remainder of the year.

What began as a simple family recipe in a small town near Torino, Italy by Mama Giordano, eventually evolved into Giordanos when Italian immigrants Efren and Joseph Boglio moved to Chicago to establish their own pizza business. After opening up its first location in Chicago's historic south side in the spring of 1974, Giordano's has stayed true to its core values of quality ingredients and exceptional pizza experiences that put the brand on the map as it has grown to over 60 locations nationwide.

In recognition of 50 years of great service, food, and tradition the mayor of Chicago has officially declared April 5, 2024 as Giordanos Pizza Day. Giordano's has not only perfected the art of deep-dish pizza-making but has also become an integral part of Chicago's cultural fabric. Its welcoming ambiance, friendly staff, and commitment to using fresh, superior-quality ingredients create an experience that resonates with guests who will never forget their first time at Giordanos.

To find out more about the 50th-year celebrations and to find the closest location near you, visit www.giordanos.com.

ABOUT GIORDANOS

Based in Chicago, Giordano's World Famous Deep-Dish Pizza has been serving its world-famous pizza for 50 years when founders and immigrant brothers Efren and Joseph Boglio introduced their mother's stuffed pizza recipe to Chicago in 1974. Becoming one of the originators of what is now internationally known as Chicago-style stuffed pizza, Giordano's currently operates over 60 restaurants across the country and is also available for shipping anywhere in the continental United States by visiting www.giordanos.com.

GIORDANOSPR@MEKKYMEDIA.COM

WWW.GIORDANOS.COM

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fffdb745-dfb0-457c-91ab-6393f8f5effa
IRVINE, Calif., March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nymox Pharmaceutical Corporation (Nymox) (OTC Markets - NYMXF) is pleased to report that the Bahamas Supreme Court has issued a formal Order officially putting an end to the Bahamas litigation brought by terminated ex-employees. The Order also awards to Nymox its costs incurred in defending the ill-conceived lawsuit, as well as damages Nymox has suffered as a result of the litigation.



The Court order states the following:

The Interim Injunction Order is set aside; The damages caused to the Company shall be assessed by a Registrar and paid by the Claimants (the persons who filed the lawsuit); and The Claimants shall pay the Companys net costs for the entire Action.



This is the first of more than one action by and between the Company and Randall Lanham, (former General Counsel for Nymox), Chris Riley, (former short-term CFO), Richard Cutler (former external Counsel and member of Board), and their financial backers.

Dr. Paul Averback, the Company CEO stated: "The malfeasances by these persons has been a costly and time-consuming distraction for our hard-working diligent management and Board, and our great supportive shareholders. We have much more important and more positive things to do. Our shareholders were not fooled by the transparent mischief initiated with these attempts to take control of company properties, which these individuals did not make, develop, own, or even faintly or remotely understand on any adequate technical or business level. We are delighted to continue to celebrate the departure of these individuals after they were fired last year, and the court verdict is a positive further step forward. The amounts of expenses plus damages is in process, and we will report further when we have that exact information. A hands down victory for Nymox and for our great shareholders."

Dr. Averback continued: "The Company has 2 submissions under review for its Nymozarfex (TM) drug treatment for prostate enlargement. The Company also has the drug in development for prostate cancer. We are very happy to report that the work of the Company has proceeded methodically. We cannot guarantee things that we do not control. One thing we do control, and we can guarantee, is that our extended team gives 110% and does the maximum, -- we are working for our shareholders, and in their best interests."

About NYMOX

Nymox is in the process of submitting applications for the approval to market the Company's first in class drug NYMOZARFEX (TM) to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is one of the most common conditions affecting middle aged and elderly men throughout the world. BPH can be devastating to men who suffer from the condition. Current treatments are associated with numerous intolerable side effects including sexual problems, such as impotence and retrograde ejaculation. Medications for BPH have been associated with prostate cancer, depression, gynecomastia and other adverse effects. The majority of men stop taking the available medications due to these and other problems. Surgery is often needed for advanced BPH. Surgery is usually effective but it is not without risks, including the discomforts of surgery in general and possible side effects of BPH surgery specifically, such as permanent retrograde ejaculation for many patients.

Nymox recently reported 10-year follow-up new data on all available patients from its U.S. clinical trial of NYMOZARFEX (TM) for the treatment of low grade localized prostate cancer. The available long-term data newly assessed, confirmed that all available data shows that the NYMOZARFEX (TM) treatment had important and statistically significant benefit for reducing the long-term progression of these prostate cancers.

About NYMOZARFEX (TM) (Fexapotide)

NYMOZARFEX (TM) is given in an in-office procedure that is administered in a few minutes without need of anesthesia or analgesia. The drug has been tested in clinical trials involving overall more than 1750 patients with over 1600 injections administered including over 1200 NYMOZARFEX (TM) administrations. NYMOZARFEX (TM) has led to significant long-term improvements and has shown an excellent safety profile without the side effects normally associated with existing BPH treatments.

For more information please contact info@nymox.com or 800-936-9669.

Forward Looking Statements

To the extent that statements contained in this press release are not descriptions of historical facts regarding Nymox, they are forward-looking statements reflecting the current beliefs and expectations of management made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the need for new options to treat BPH and prostate cancer, the potential of Fexapotide to treat BPH and prostate cancer and the estimated timing of further developments for Fexapotide. Such forward-looking statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our clinical development program, future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, the uncertainties inherent in the clinical drug development process, including the regulatory approval process, the timing of Nymox's regulatory filings, Nymox's substantial dependence on Fexapotide, Nymox's commercialization plans and efforts and other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of Fexapotide. Nymox undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements. For a further description of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Nymox in general, see Nymox's current and future reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2022, and its Quarterly Reports.
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hisense, a global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, is proud to announce its participation in the 2024 Proudly South African Buy Local Summit. The event, which took place at the Sandton Convention Centre, brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and consumers to celebrate and support local businesses.



At the heart of Hisense's participation is its commitment to technological excellence and supporting local businesses. The company was showcasing its Smart Fridges and Hero Mini-LED Pro model TVs, which recently won the prestigious 2024 TV Brand of the Year Award from Mybroadband and the No.2 Global TV Shipment spot from Omdia.

Luna Nortje, Deputy General Manager for Hisense South Africa, emphasized the company's commitment to local economic growth, stating, "We actively encourage and support local businesses and entrepreneurs to participate in manufacturing locally. By fostering innovation and collaboration within our community, we aim to build a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both Hisense and our local partners, while building a better future for South Africa, one job at a time." Hisense, with its infrastructure in South Africa including warehouses, a factory, and other facilities, has been instrumental in creating over 5000 jobs directly and indirectly in South Africa. This commitment to job creation and economic development is a cornerstone of Hisense's operations.

At Hisense, we believe that supporting local communities goes hand in hand with our commitment to manufacturing and trading locally. It's not just about producing and selling products; it's about uplifting the people and places that make our operations possible. We donated over R100,000 to selected charities associated with the event, pledging R5 for every cyclist who crossed the finish line of the Cape Town Cycle Tour. Despite another donation of a Side by Side Fridge to the Fountain of Hope Foundation, we've gone further by inviting their children to tour our Atlantis Factory. This initiative aims to broaden their horizons and open their minds to endless possibilities, contributing to a brighter future for our communities. These initiatives are just a glimpse of our ongoing efforts to create a lasting impact and uplift our communities.

The 2024 Proudly South African Buy Local Summit is a vibrant platform for businesses to connect, learn, and collaborate towards a stronger local economy. Hisense's participation underscores its dedication to innovation, job creation, and economic growth in South Africa.

Contact

Henru van der Merwe - henru.vandermerwe@hisense.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4b555e29-dba4-4dc3-b27c-045dfd7b0ef8
Notice is hereby given that on the initiative and by the resolution of the Board of AB KN Energies, legal entity code 110648893, with the registered office at Buriu str. 19, Klaipeda (hereinafter - the Company), Annual General Meeting of Shareholders of the Company will be held on 30 April 2024 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Companys administrative office, J. Janonio str. 6B, Klaipeda (in the hall of the meeting on the 3rd floor).

Agenda of the meeting:

Announcement of the Auditors Report regarding the Financial Statements and Annual Report of the Company for the year 2023 to the shareholders; Announcement of the Annual Report of the Company for the year 2023 to the shareholders; Approval of the audited Financial Statements of the Company for the year 2023; Approval of the appropriation of profit (loss) of the Company for the year 2023; Agreement on the Report on the remuneration of the Company; Approval of Regulations of Audit Committee activities of the Company.

The shareholders will be registered from 12:00 p.m. to 12:55 p.m. The persons intending to participate in the meeting shall have a personal ID document (an authorized representative shall have an authorization approved under the established procedure. The natural persons authorization shall be notarized. An authorization issued in a foreign state shall be translated into the Lithuanian language and legalized under the procedure prescribed by the laws).

A shareholder or his proxy shall have the right to vote in writing in advance by filling in a general ballot paper. At the request of the shareholder, the Company shall send a general ballot paper to the shareholder by registered mail free of charge at least 10 days before the meeting. The filled-in general ballot paper and the document attesting the voting right shall be submitted to the Company no later than until the meeting, sending by registered mail or providing them at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice.

The shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes may propose additions to the agenda of the general meeting of shareholders by submitting with every proposed additional item of the agenda a draft resolution of the general meeting of shareholders or, when no resolution is required, an explanation. Proposals on addition to the agenda shall be submitted in writing or sent by e-mail. Written proposals shall be submitted to the Company on business days or sent by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. Proposals submitted by e-mail shall be sent to the following e-mails: info@kn.lt and s.granickiene@kn.lt . The agenda shall be supplemented if the proposal is received no later than 14 days before the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. If the agenda of the general meeting of shareholders is supplemented, the Company shall notify on the additions no later than 10 days before the meeting in the same ways as in the case of convocation of the meeting.

The shareholders, who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes, at any time before the general meeting of shareholders or during the meeting, may propose new draft resolutions on items which are or will be included in the agenda of the meeting. The proposals may be submitted in writing or sent by e-mail. Written proposals shall be submitted to the Company on business days or sent by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. Proposals submitted by e-mail shall be sent to the following e-mails: info@kn.lt and s.granickiene@kn.lt .

The shareholders shall have the right to submit to the Company in advance questions relating to the items on the agenda of the meeting. The shareholders may submit their written questions to the Company on business days or send by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice no later than 3 business days before the meeting. The Company will reply to the questions by e-mail or in writing before the meeting, except the questions which are related to the Companys commercial (industrial) secret, confidential information or which have been submitted later than 3 business days before the meeting.

The Company provides the possibility of voting at the meeting by submitting to the Company a general ballot paper signed with a qualified electronic signature no later than 1:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. The shareholder shall have the right to authorize through electronic communications means another person (natural or legal) to participate and vote in the meeting on behalf of the shareholder. No notarization of such authorization is required. The shareholder must confirm the proxy issued through electronic communications means by an electronic signature developed by a secure signature-creation device and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania. The shareholder shall inform the Company on the proxy issued through electronic communications means to the following e-mails: info@kn.lt and s.granickiene@kn.lt no later than until the last business day before the meeting at 1:00 p.m. The proxy and the notice must be issued in writing. The proxy and the notice to the Company shall be signed with the electronic signature but not the letter sent by e-mail. By submitting the notice to the Company, the shareholder shall include the internet address from which it would be possible to download software free of charge to verify the shareholders electronic signature.

The record date of the meeting shall be 23 April 2024 (only those persons who will be shareholders of the Company at the close of the record date of the general meeting of shareholders or their authorized persons, or persons with whom an agreement on assignment of the voting right has been executed, may participate and vote at the general meeting of shareholders).

The record date which entitles shareholders to receive a portion of the Companys profit (dividend)  15 May 2024.

The shareholders of the Company may familiarise with the draft resolution of the meeting and the form of the general ballot paper under the procedure prescribed by the laws in the administrative office of the Company at J. Janonis str. 6B, Klaipeda (tel.: 8 46 391 772), or on the Companys website at http://www.kn.lt/ .

Tomas Tumenas, Chief Financial Officer, +370 46 391 772.

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OVERLAND PARK, Kan., March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) announced its investment of more than $4 million in scholarship funds for education programs across the United States as part of its continued goal to raise awareness of the value of the respiratory care profession and recruit and retain more respiratory therapists. More than 450 Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC)-accredited respiratory care educational programs will each receive $10,000 to use toward scholarships for current and future respiratory care practitioners.

By giving these monies, we are carrying out our mission-driven commitment to supporting education in hopes of recruiting and retaining more people into the field of respiratory care. The outpouring of gratitude we received when we did this in 2022 was amazing, and we know that this years increased contribution will only help to further build the next generation of respiratory therapists and enhance this life-saving profession, said Lori M. Tinkler, MBA, ICE-CCP, Chief Executive Officer of the NBRC.

The NBRC supports the long-term recruitment, retention and advancement of respiratory therapists. In 2022, they invested over $2 million in scholarship funds to CoARC-accredited respiratory care programs. The NBRC Board of Trustees voted late last year to again support and provide funds for educational scholarships, grants and awards for current and future practitioners through accredited education programs. In addition, the NBRC annually funds respiratory therapy scholarships through the American Respiratory Care Foundation (ARCF), the American College for Respiratory Therapy Education (ACRTE) and the Lambda Beta Society (the national honor society for respiratory care).

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, respiratory therapy jobs are projected to grow 13% by 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. To address the shortage of respiratory therapists and advance specialization, Tinkler said the NBRC is also leading a multi-year, national campaign to raise awareness of the value of the profession, to improve recruitment and retention, and to identify, shape and inspire new leadership in respiratory care. Learn more about the campaign at morerts.com.

Victoria College in Victoria, TX, is one of 450+ educational institutions receiving The NBRC scholarship funds to advance the future of respiratory therapists. I am profoundly moved by the invaluable support provided by the NBRC in granting funds for scholarships to each of the respiratory care programs across the nation. These funds signify more than just financial assistance; they symbolize a beacon of hope for our students, empowering them to pursue their dreams and aspirations. With heartfelt appreciation, I envision utilizing these resources to serve the students needs, foster innovation and cultivate a standard of excellence. This scholarship is a testament to the collective commitment towards shaping a brighter future, and I am dedicated to employing these funds to nurture the minds of tomorrow, equipping them with the tools they need for success and to be a positive influence, said JJ Valdez, Clinical Coordinator of Respiratory Care at Victoria College.

About the NBRC: Established in 1960 and headquartered in the Kansas City area since 1974, the NBRC is the credentialing board for U.S. respiratory care practitioners. The NBRCs mission is to promote excellence in respiratory care by awarding credentials based on high-competency standards.

The 49 states regulating the respiratory care profession recognize the NBRC examinations as the minimum standard for state licensure. The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) accredits all of the NBRCs examinations.

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Dublin, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Hospital Asset Tracking and Inventory Management Systems Market (2023-2028) by Type, Component, Geography, Competitive Analysis, and Impact of Covid-19 with Ansoff Analysis" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Market Growth Driven by Advancements in Healthcare Technology

The latest industry analysis has revealed significant growth in the Global Hospital Asset Tracking and Inventory Management Systems Market, with projections indicating an increase from USD 28.86 billion in 2023 to USD 42.63 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 8.11%. This surge reflects an expanding demand for effective asset management in healthcare institutions.

Enhancing Efficiency in Healthcare Through Technology

Hospital asset tracking and inventory management systems are pivotal in ensuring the efficient use of resources within healthcare facilities. These systems facilitate the monitoring and management of hospital equipment, which is essential for improving patient care and reducing costs. As hospitals continue to seek ways to improve operational efficiency, the market for advanced tracking systems is expected to rise.

**Segmentation Insights** The market is segmented into various categories including type, component, and geography. In terms of type, the categories include Mobile, Fixed, and Other Inventory. The components are classified into Hardware and Software. Geographically, the market encompasses the Americas, Europe, Middle-East & Africa, and Asia-Pacific, which allows for a global analysis of market trends and demands.

Competitive Landscape and Company Profiles

A range of key players operating within the market are making strides in developing innovative solutions to meet the growing needs of healthcare facilities. The report delves into the financial performance of these companies, exploring recent developments that shape the competitive landscape. **Global Analysis with Ansoff Matrix** Utilizing the Ansoff Matrix, the industry's growth strategies have been thoroughly examined, providing insight into the approaches companies might undertake to enhance their market presence. This strategic analysis takes into account various risk factors associated with each growth approach.

Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a noticeable impact on the market, with hospitals around the world adapting their asset management practices to meet the demands of the crisis. The report includes a dedicated section analyzing the effects of the pandemic on market dynamics. **Comprehensive Evaluation for Informed Decisions** This extensive market evaluation presents an analytic view of market dynamics, trends, and segmentation, coupled with market size projections. Industry players and stakeholders can leverage this intricate analysis to make informed decisions and strategize for market expansion.

Regulatory Considerations

Understanding the regulatory environment is essential for any market player, and the report offers a detailed examination of the major regulatory bodies and regulations affecting the industry across different regions.

Market Shares and Strategies

With an eye on the future, the report also discusses market shares and strategic approaches by key players, aiding businesses in strengthening their market position.

About the Analysis

This industry analysis is a resource for anyone interested in understanding the intricate dynamics of the hospital asset tracking and inventory management systems market. With a robust methodological approach, it provides valuable insights for healthcare executives, investors, and analysts. The analysis encompasses data from reputable sources, employing both primary and secondary research methods to offer a comprehensive overview of the market. The strategic tools used in the report, like Porter's 5 forces model and the Ansoff Matrix, contribute to a nuanced understanding of market forces and potential growth strategies. For media inquiries or to access the full report, please contact our media relations department.



Key Attributes

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 179 Forecast Period 2023 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $28.86 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $42.63 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.1% Regions Covered Global

Companies Featured

ASAP Systems

Ascom Holding AG

Assetinfinity

Comarch

Cybra

CenTrak

GE Healthcare

Hector Inc.

Honeywell International

Midmark Corp

Olinqua

RMS Omega Healthcare

Science Soft

Verasset

Wasp Barcode Technologies

Zebra Technologies

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/r33xkl

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Fuel Ethanol Market (2023-2028) Competitive Analysis, Impact of Economic Slowdown & Impending Recession, Ansoff Analysis" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Market Dynamics and Insights

The Global Fuel Ethanol Market is undergoing significant growth with forecasts estimating a market value of USD 141.05 billion by 2028, marking a sturdy Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.31%. This growth trajectory highlights an increased demand for sustainable and renewable fuel options amidst economic and regulatory shifts. Market dynamics denote considerable influence over this sector, with factors such as macro-economic shifts, supply-demand curves, production capacities, and consumer behaviors playing pivotal roles. These dynamics offer a comprehensive understanding of the market forces at play, providing essential insights to stakeholders within the fuel ethanol industry.





Market Segmentations



In an in-depth analysis of the market categorization, the Global Fuel Ethanol Market is systematically segmented, offering detailed perspectives based on Source, Product, Application, End User, and Geography. Synthesized facets within each category provide clarity and direction for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of the market. The segments are meticulously constructed, recognizing synthetic and natural sources, diverse product types such as cellulosic, starch-based, and sugar-based products, applications spanning conventional and flexible fuel vehicles, as well as end-user industries including automotive and oil and gas.



Geographical Impact and Company Profiles



The market study recognizes the widespread geographical influence on the fuel ethanol market, with an in-depth evaluation across the Americas, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions. These regional analyses assist in understanding the global reach and regional nuances impacting market expansion. Moreover, company profiles of key players demonstrate the competitive landscape and offer a lens into their financial performances, strategic initiatives, product offerings, and market positioning. This competitive analysis is crucial for benchmarking and understanding the strategic alignments within the industry.



Competitive Analysis Tools and Strategic Implications



The inclusion of Competitive Quadrants as analytical tools presents a dynamic and comprehensive evaluation method, assessing enterprises based on industry position and market performance. Businesses within the fuel ethanol landscape can leverage this model for strategic planning and to gain a competitive edge in the market. In addition, the application of Ansoff Analysis offers insights into growth strategies by correlating market and product development approaches. This strategic tool is instrumental in identifying potential risks and formulating growth vectors while considering internal and external factors that influence market penetration and diversification.



Market Projections and Recommendations



With the aim of providing an all-encompassing market forecast, the report encompasses qualitative analyses, data projections, and considers market dynamics including the impact of COVID-19. The detailed market evaluation encompasses regulatory scenarios that underline the need for informed decision-making practices in this evolving landscape. The Global Fuel Ethanol Market is on an upward trend, and the report's findings underscore the importance of strategies aimed at reinforcing market positions. These recommendations serve as guidance for companies striving to enhance their market presence within this rapidly growing sector.



Conclusion



The findings projected within the Global Fuel Ethanol Market report signify a thriving industry that is adapting to ecological concerns and shifting energy paradigms. Market participants are encouraged to consider the strategic analyses provided to navigate and succeed in an increasingly competitive and complex market environment.



Key Attributes

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 195 Forecast Period 2023 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $101.24 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $144.13 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 7.3% Regions Covered Global

Companies Featured

Archer Daniels Midland Company

BlueFire Renewables, Inc.

BP PLC

Braksem S.A.

Cargill, Inc.

E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company

Flint Hills Resources LP

HPLC Biofuels Ltd.

INOES Group

Jilin Fuel Ethanol Co., Ltd.

LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V.

Mitsubishi Chemical Corp.

Pacific Ethanol, Inc.

Petrosun, Inc.

Raizen S.A.

SABIC Limburg B.V.

Sasol Ltd.

Targray Technologies International, Inc.

Valero Energy Corp.

Wilmar International Ltd.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/14m7y8

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "North America Mining Equipment - Market Share Analysis, Industry Trends & Statistics, Growth Forecasts 2019 - 2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The North American Mining Equipment market is valued at USD 13.02 billion and is expected to reach USD 16.29 billion by registering a CAGR of about 4.58% during the forecast period.







With the rising consumption of base metals and precious metals in several applications, the mining activities of these metals increased, especially in countries such as the United States and Canada.



According to the World Gold Council, Canada at 194.5 tons, followed by the United States at 172.7 tons, securing the 3rd and 4th position in the Global Gold Mining ranking.



Electrification of powertrains for construction and mining machinery has been in focus due to concerns over emissions and noises generated by conventional diesel-powered machinery. Powertrains offer various advantages, such as high overall efficiency, high maneuverability, and accuracy during operations. Investments in the sector by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), coupled with demand for sustainable products, will likely drive the market growth.



For instance, in September 2023, a Canadian iron ore producer awarded Metso an order for two powerful Vertimill 4500 grinding mills to be delivered in 3Q24. that support the decarbonization of the steel industry through production of high-grade and high-purity iron ore with sustainable processes.



The mining equipment manufacturers look at opportunities like the automation of machinery to attract customers and capture a significant share of the market. The growing demand for raw materials resulted in mining companies exploring new mining projects, thus boosting the mining equipment market.



Increasing Demand for Surface Mining Equipment



In surface mining, the equipment deployed is drilling equipment, electric shovels, high wall miners, excavators, dumpers, motor graders, and wheel dozers.



Technological advancements and increasing demand for oil sands, coal, and gas are expected to drive the demand for surface mining equipment. For instance,



According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, in 2021, about 577 million short ton of coal was produced in the United States. Surface mines accounted for 63% of the total coal production. They also represent 65% of the total number of mines in the United States.



Significant improvements in equipment efficiency, investments in the sector by OEMs, and the need for sustainable products are expected to positively augment the market's growth during the forecast period. Moreover, companies are further upgrading excavators and electric shoves to meet the current metal exploration demand. For instance,



In January 2022, Liebherr launched the R 9600 hydraulic mining excavator. After research and development, Liebherr brought the latest 600-ton R 9600 mining hydraulic excavator to the public.



In March 2023, Tata Hitachi launched the ZX670H Mining Excavator, which is designed for to toughest jobs at any mining site with ease.



In addition, the growing adoption of such equipment has led to selective mining operations by exploring high-quality materials and creating embankments and stable surfaces. These factors may provide lucrative opportunities for manufacturers, leading them to expand their product portfolios.



Therefore, the abovementioned factors are anticipated to boost the surface mining equipment segment during the forecast period.



Canada to Lead the Market During the Forecast Period



The mining industry's production in Canada is about USD 37.5 billion, which accounts top 5 mineral products such as gold, iron ore, potash, copper, and coal.



Canada holds 4th largest position among the top mining countries in the world. Canada produces over 60 metals and minerals and is among the top 10 producers of numerous metals and minerals globally. The country is the world's largest producer of potash, the second-largest producer of uranium, and the third-largest producer of diamonds. It is the world's fourth- and fifth-largest producer of primary aluminum and nickel, respectively.



Gold (USD 13.7 billion), iron ore (USD 6.5 billion), coal (USD 8.0 billion), copper (USD 4.5 billion), and potash (USD 4.8 billion) were Canada's top five mineral products by value in 2021. They accounted for over two-thirds of the total value of mineral output, with a combined value of USD 37.5 billion. The value of production of all major metallic and non-metallic minerals increased in 2021 as compared to the previous year.



Canada is expected to remain a premier mining destination due to strong capital markets, vast mineral reserves, stable political and economic environment. This growth provides new opportunities for U.S. companies to enter Canada.



Moreover, Canada has rich deposits of many minerals and metals, such as nickel, copper, cobalt, and platinum, which are important for renewable energy technologies. With minerals and metals playing an important role in low-carbon technologies, the demand will increase due to their use in the development of EVs and batteries.



In September 2022, Canada and France announced a Canada-France Bilateral Dialogue on Critical Minerals, which are an important variety of products, from electric vehicles to semiconductors, wind turbines to batteries, as an objective to promote global environmental, social, and governmental standards.



Such factors and statistics indicate a huge opportunity for the mining equipment market in Canada.



A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:

Liebherr Group

Terex Corporation

Mining Equipment Limited

Caterpillar Inc.

Komatsu Ltd

Volvo Construction Equipment

SANY Group

FLSmidth & Co. AS

Metso Corporation

RDH-Scharf



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/3g9ci

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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by Mick Hall





New Zealands public should be deeply concerned over revelations its security state facilitated a suspected U.S. intelligence operation capable of supporting military actions for nearly a decade without the New Zealand governments knowledge, a constitutional lawyer says.





A report has revealed that a signals intelligence system embedded in the countrys Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) ran from 2012 to 2020 without ministerial knowledge or approval after a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in secret.





Rendering of the Five Eyes intelligence network that includes Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.K., the U.S. (@GDJ, Openclipart)





The GCSB is the equivalent of the GCHQ in Britain and the NSA in the U.S. It collects, assesses and produces reports on foreign intelligence for other New Zealand agencies.





The GCSB operates a satellite monitoring station at Waihopia near Blenheim and a radio receiving station at Tangimoana at Foxton, both capable of collecting foreign and domestic intelligence.





A report by the countrys Inspector-General of Intelligence Brendan Horsley released last Thursday found that an unnamed country had used the infrastructure to intercept and decode messages that could be used to support military actions by foreign partners.





Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark said the agency behind the scheme likely belonged to the U.S.





The report makes it clear senior staff working on signals intelligence system memos of understanding were aware of how politically significant it was and the potential legal implications it posed.





This awareness would have been partly informed by past reports by the inspector-general. A report in 1999 had probed concerns by then Prime Minister Clark that GCSB activities could be unduly focused more on the needs of Five Eyes security partners than New Zealands.





Clark was also concerned about the possibility New Zealand citizens themselves could be illegally spied on.





Given prior scrutiny of people like Clark, it seems inconceivable to some that senior GCSB officials would be unaware of U.S. intelligence operation embedded in the organisation without ministerial consultation or approval by their predecessors.





Prime Suspect: the U.S.





Clark, the former prime minister, agreed it was likely the signals intelligence system belonged to a U.S. agency. She told media those responsible for operating it within GCSB should be disciplined for hiding it from government.





The GCSB, operating at this more junior level, obviously couldnt be sure that what it was doing was in accordance with the governments intelligence requirements and with New Zealand law, she said.





However, she concurred with the reports findings that the MoU had been signed during a period of flux when there were acting leaders between 2010 and 2012, which had led to senior management subsequently not being aware of the U.S. signals intelligence operation. For Clark, all checks and balances seem to have broken down.





The latest report, much of which remains classified, makes it clear there was very little oversight into how the suspected U.S. signals operation was run and that it was impossible to determine whether it broke New Zealand law or that the intelligence enabled military targeting that broke international law.





The system was accessed remotely by the agency, with intercepted signals being passed on to it. The MoU stated the system would not be used to target New Zealanders and no communications would be collected from local telecom networks without a warrant.





Records showed 29 intelligence-gathering tasks ran between 2014 and 2020, but the true number performed is impossible to determine, as well as the nature of the information gathering.





The inspector generals report found the ability of the intelligence to contribute to military action had been moderated significantly by the geographical limits of GCSB collection.





This suggests the potential to aid U.S. military operations was limited to the Pacific region, where New Zealands Western allies are preparing for a war with its chief trading partner China, one of several centres of power now challenging U.S. hegemony.





After Chinese Visit





News of the operation came on the heels of a two-day visit to New Zealand by Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi beginning on March 17 to discuss bilateral trade and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Wang also visited Australia afterwards on a similar diplomatic mission.





The suspected U.S. operation will be of concern to Beijing, regardless of the reports finding that it was not politically approved, that it ended in 2020, and that, less plausibly, New Zealands senior spooks suddenly became unaware of it.





The inspector generals report said then bureau director Simon Murdoch in 2011 had noted in an email that his legal team would need to be closely involved in the MoU process, as well the minister with oversight of the GCSB being made aware of it, with his consent also potentially needed.





However, the report found no evidence of any subsequent ministerial briefings or correspondence. It also noted that Ian Fletcher, appointed GCSB director in February 2012, said he was not told about the MoU during his transition into his new role.





The IG found no evidence Fletcher had been told. The report also said the GCSBs current senior leadership and legal team had no knowledge of it either, suggesting institutional knowledge of the operation simply disappeared.





The report found this was due to poor internal procedures as well as multiple acting senior figures coming and going during the time after the MoU was signed, while lax rules governing the organisation had allowed senior spooks to avoid telling the government.





It said the spy system was only rediscovered following an audit in 2020 when equipment reportedly stopped working, after which the matter was referred to Horsley to probe.





Given the contradictions implicit in the report, questions remain over who knew what and whether the security state is continuing to accede to similar requests by the U.S. without the knowledge of government.





Senior Staff Awareness





The report noted inadequate record keeping and lack of evidence to show staff ever queried the purpose of the requested tasks. It stated that in agreeing to host the system the GCSB did so with senior officials having negligible awareness of it and with staff running it having inadequate training or guidance.





Calls for Oversight





Auckland University senior law lecturer Fuimaono Dylan Asafo is calling for new laws to ensure proper oversight is imposed on the countrys spy agencies so any future government knows exactly what the security state is up to.





Speaking in his capacity as spokesperson for a foreign policy group Te Kuaka, Afaso said:





This should be of major concern to all New Zealanders because we are not in control here. The inquiry reveals that our policies and laws are not fit for purpose and that they do not cover the operation of foreign agencies within New Zealand.





It appears from the inquiry that even GCSB itself lost track of the system and did not know its full purpose.





We do not know what military activities were undertaken using New Zealands equipment and base, and this could make us unknowingly complicit in serious breaches of international law. The law needs changing to explicitly prohibit what has occurred here.





Te Kuaka has voiced increasing concerns over New Zealand joining Pillar II of AUKUS, the anti-China nuclear submarine alliance in the Asia-Pacfic involving Australia, the U.K. and the U.S.





Under law enacted in the late 1980s New Zealand is a nuclear-free zone, with nuclear-powered vessels and weaponry banned from entering its jurisdiction.





However, Pillar II is being pushed as a non-nuclear component of the pact, compatible with its anti-nuclear tradition. It is a distinction rendered meaningless by the fact Pillar II would involve intelligence sharing with AI-driven targeting systems and nuclear-capable assets, Te Kuaka argues.





While in Australia for a meeting of foreign and defence ministers in February, New Zealand Defence Minister Judith Collins strongly expressed a desire to join the alliance, although officials maintain the potential role is still being defined.





Pillar II aims to win a next-generation arms race involving new autonomous weapons platforms, electronic warfare systems, and hypersonic missiles.





Asafos colleague, Te Kauka Co-director Marco de Jong, said any involvement in AUKUS would compound problems of democratic oversights Horsleys inquiry had raised, creating further distrust across an increasingly divided region over New Zealands ability to avoid becoming entangled in other peoples wars.





It could be argued joining AUKUS could comprehensively restrict the governments ability to shape how its military and the GCSB directed their efforts, which would be largely driven by foreign policy in Washington.





Andrew Little, a former minister who was previously in charge of the GCSB, told media the GCSB had a much different attitude since the MoU was signed, regarding complying with legal obligations and relationship with ministers with oversight. He said he supported the operation being directed to Horley to investigate after becoming aware of it, because he was concerned it was inconsistent with legislation that tightened oversight that had taken effect in 2017.





However, Asafo points out:





Regardless of suggestions the system was established under previously lax legislation, its operation continued through several agency and legislative reviews.





Horleys report stated the bureau acted legally. It stated:





Though the authorisation process for intelligence sharing at the time seems manifestly inadequate, a Ministerial authorisation in place in 2012 for the GCSB to share intelligence and cooperate with the foreign partner was broad enough to cover the capability and so the decision to host the system without further Ministerial approval was lawful.





However, it seems clear failure to bring it to the relevant ministers attention wilfully circumvented government oversight and control over its activities.





In doing so, New Zealands security state likely allowed U.S. military intelligence to usurp its governments democratic checks and balances so it could pursue actions against other states and individuals possibly nefarious in nature.





The corrosive effects of such secrecy remain hard to quantify in a country under pressure to give up whats left of its independent foreign policy altogether by joining a military alliance that would more openly enmesh it in schemes of U.S. domination against its Pacific neighbours for years to come.





Mick Hall is an independent journalist based in New Zealand. He is a former digital journalist at Radio New Zealand (RNZ) and former Australian Associated Press (AAP) staffer, having also written investigative stories for various newspapers, including the New Zealand Herald.
Dublin, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "North America FMCG Logistics - Market Share Analysis, Industry Trends & Statistics, Growth Forecasts 2019 - 2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The North America FMCG Logistics Market size is estimated at USD 322.97 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 408.98 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 4.84% during the forecast period (2024-2029).







Total e-commerce sales have grown by nearly 60 percent since the beginning of the pandemic, though penetration rates have leveled off. As such, consumers are increasingly seeking out one-stop shops and have expressed an interest in buying everything in one place, which will happen even more frequently in 2022. Meanwhile, the food-at-home market, which had been slowly losing share to food away from home before 2020, has surged 8.7 percent, four times its historical growth rate.



The move to eating food at home coincides with a growing emphasis on healthier eating. The FMCG sector has benefited from the current e-commerce growth. The industry is moving into a new era of supply chain management from traditional storekeeping, purchasing, materials management, and integrated materials management. FMCG companies often conduct their logistics operations using a hub-and-spoke model, with distribution hubs in important cities and towns serving both wholesalers and retailers. Customers anticipate quick order fulfillment via a variety of channels. Consumer goods firms outsource their logistics operations to do this by bridging the gap between operational and sales planning processes, enhancing forecasting, streamlining inventory, and accelerating delivery times.



Cold chain accounted for USD 248.4 billion in 2020 in the U.S. alone and is expected to exceed USD 410 billion by 2028. This growth has been driven partly by demand for healthier foods high in proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fats that must be transported within specific temperature windows. With labor shortages anticipated to continue throughout the supply chain, many cold chain companies are looking toward automated solutions. The pre-COVID Canadian cold storage landscape was growing, with trends in domestic and global food markets driving much of that demand.



Increasing Growth in Food and Beverages Products are Driving the Market Growth



North American consumers are increasingly demanding fresh and healthy foods, which require specialized logistics capabilities to ensure that they are delivered to consumers in a timely and quality manner. This is driving demand for cold chain logistics, as many fresh and healthy foods must be kept at a specific temperature throughout the transportation and storage process. The e-commerce market for food and beverages is growing rapidly in North America. Experts predicts e-commerce will increase a modest 2.4 percentage points in United Staes over the next five years upto 2027, underscoring the challenges retailers face in balancing sales with profitability. The firms noted that health concerns from COVID-19 and other illnesses will likely continue to encourage online grocery shopping.



The total number of households completing at least one order during the month of September 2023 jumped almost 11% compared to September 2022. The Supermarket monthly active user (MAU) base expanded by just under 1%, while the Mass MAU base, led by Walmart, surged 20% compared to 2022. The jump in total MAU base more than offset the order frequency decline and drove a nearly 2% gain in total order volume. Remote work is a key driver of food and grocery app adoption in Canada. The pandemic pushed more people to work from home, and the trend persists for many white-collar industries. Canada's remote workers and students used food delivery apps and ordered groceries online in higher numbers. One of the largest national grocery chains, Metro, reported a surge in online activity in its fiscal Q1 2022.



The COVID-19 pandemic changed the behaviour of consumers in Mexico, as it did in other markets around the world. Limited access and mobility restrictions prompted consumers to test and adopt digital channels while reinforcing the importance of grocery retail as a primary source of basic food, beverages, and personal and home care supplies for households across the country.



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/6gtsxa

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "China Commercial Real Estate - Market Share Analysis, Industry Trends & Statistics, Growth Forecasts 2019 - 2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The China Commercial Real Estate Market size in terms of transaction value is expected to grow from USD 0.89 trillion in 2024 to USD 1.07 trillion by 2029, at a CAGR of 3.49% during the forecast period (2024-2029).







For the office market, nationwide net absorption is estimated to reach 6.2 million square meters in 2022, well above the five-year average of 5.3 million square meters. Technology and finance sectors are expected to continue being the primary drivers of office demand.



Key Highlights

COVID-19 significantly impacted China's commercial real estate market. This is due to high vacancy rates in offices and shopping malls in major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.





Additionally, the slowing economy has led to a decline in demand for offices and shopping malls, followed by a drop in customer flows, impacting shopping mall rental charges. It is estimated that China's economy will normalize in 2022, with a GDP growth of roughly 5% Y-o-Y. Counter-cyclical policies and structural transformations are being implemented to ensure sustained growth.





Logistics net absorption is estimated to exceed 6 million square meters for the second year in 2022 due to the increase in space take-up by e-commerce companies, third-party logistics expansion, and the introduction of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) scheme. Further, more cities in China are expected to shift to a balanced or landlord-favourable markets.

Technology and Innovation Driving the Market



With a growing requirement for technology adoption, Chinese real estate companies are using a variety of innovative approaches to improve their technical skills while remaining competitive. Additionally, some prominent Chinese commercial real estate developers have partnered with internet and tech giants such as Alibaba, Tencent, JD, and Huawei to increase the adoption of property technology for efficient business operations. These developers can take advantage of the R&D capabilities of the tech companies while sharing business insights and giving physical space and financial resources as part of the partnership.



Chinese consumers' preferences are driving China's innovation in real estate. China has emerged as a major player in many digital technologies, particularly in consumer-facing industries and Fintech. Regarding the number of unicorns and valuations, China's property technology market is catching up to that of the United States. Moreover, 75% of property technology start-ups are in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou.



Companies in Tier 1 cities are more likely to be early adopters of property technology solutions. These customers are associated with the brand, the quality of the product, the level of service, and personalized engagement. Customers will begin to demand omnichannel options and experiences as Alibaba's Hema and other similar retail innovations become more prevalent.



Property technology start-ups with data on customers, properties, sales, and business operations can use it to build new product offerings and assist businesses with decision-making. Chinese start-ups may lead the world in consumer-facing property technology, physical retail innovation, and 5G-related applications.



A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:

Wanda Group

Greenland Business Group

Seazen Holdings Co. Ltd

CapitaLand

Longfor

China Resources Land Limited

Powerlong Real Estate Holdings Limited

China Aoyuan Group Ltd

Wharf Real Estate Investment Company Limited

Sun Hung Kai Properties Limited

Henderson Land Development Company Limited

Prologis*



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/9nikpo

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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EDMONTON, Alberta, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nearly 30,000 deaths from noncommunicable diseases in Canada in 2019, were due to high body mass index (BMI), most related to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity-related cancers. There is extreme urgency for provincial and territorial health authorities to recognize obesity as a chronic disease and act, which would prevent and improve the burden of several related conditions and take the pressure off the health care system.



Approximately 500 leading obesity and hypertension experts and allied health professionals from across Canada are gathering in Banff April 3-6, to unveil groundbreaking research, explore innovative treatments, and advocate for pivotal policy changes in tackling two of the nation's most pressing health concerns.

Why It Matters:

The health risk to individuals: According to the World Obesity Atlas 2024 , approximately 30% of Canadian adults are living with obesity and without changes, that number will increase to 49% by 2035, further stressing our healthcare system.

According to the World , approximately 30% of Canadian adults are living with obesity and without changes, that number will increase to 49% by 2035, further stressing our healthcare system. The multiplication factor of obesity: Obesity is intricately linked with various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, certain cancers, and joint problems, placing an immense burden on individual health and healthcare systems.

Obesity is intricately linked with various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, certain cancers, and joint problems, placing an immense burden on individual health and healthcare systems. Obesity can be treated effectively; we know what to do: Canada is a global leader in obesity research and clinical expertise. The Canadian Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines are globally recognized as the gold standard and Canadian experts are highly regarded as thought leaders. There are effective evidence-based treatment and management strategies available.

Canada is a global leader in obesity research and clinical expertise. The are globally recognized as the gold standard and Canadian experts are highly regarded as thought leaders. There are effective evidence-based treatment and management strategies available. Revolutionizing our healthcare system: By officially recognizing obesity as a chronic disease and investing in evidence-based strategies, Canada (provincial and territorial health ministries) has the potential to lead the world in healthcare excellence within the next decade, predicts Obesity Canada.

Event Details:

What: "Obesity and Hypertension in Canada: Science to Solutions" Conference

When: April 3rd to 6th, 2024

Where: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Banff, Alberta

Media Contact:

For interviews with obesity experts and people with lived experience or for media accreditation to attend the conference:

Danielle Cote

Garnet Communications

Tel: (613) 799-9057

Email: danielle@garnetcommunications.ca
Shares Outstanding: 328,612,319

Trading Symbols:

TSX: GGD

OTCQX: GLGDF

HALIFAX, March 26, 2024 - GoGold Resources Inc. (TSX: GGD) (OTCQX: GLGDF) ("GoGold", "the Company") is pleased to announce that at the annual and special meeting of shareholders held on March 26, 2024 (the "Meeting"), the shareholders re-elected John Turner, Bradley Langille, Phillip Gaunce, George Waye, Terrence Cooper, and Karen Flores as directors of the Company for the forthcoming year. Each director was elected by a majority of the votes and the table below presents the votes in respect of the election of each director:

Nominee Votes For Votes Against John Turner 122,581,605 (74.21 %) 42,604,368 (25.79 %) Karen Flores 164,900,448 (99.83 %) 285,525 (0.17 %) Phillip Gaunce 154,685,578 (93.81 %) 10,200,395 (6.19 %) George Waye 154,758,341 (93.86 %) 10,127,632 (6.14 %) Terrence Cooper 107,986,424 (65.49 %) 56,899,549 (34.51 %) Bradley Langille 155,604,277 (94.20 %) 9,581,696 (5.80 %)

KPMG LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, were re-appointed as the auditors of the Company until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until their successors are duly appointed, at a remuneration to be fixed by the directors.

About GoGold Resources

GoGold Resources (TSX: GGD) is a Canadian-based silver and gold producer focused on operating, developing, exploring and acquiring high quality projects in Mexico. The Company operates the Parral Tailings mine in the state of Chihuahua and has the Los Ricos South and Los Ricos North exploration projects in the state of Jalisco. Headquartered in Halifax, NS, GoGold is building a portfolio of low cost, high margin projects. For more information visit gogoldresources.com.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT:

The securities described herein 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, or for the benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy of any of GoGold's securities in the United States.

This news release may contain "forward-looking information" as defined in applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Los Ricos South and North projects, and future plans and objectives of GoGold, including the intention to undertake further exploration at Los Ricos North, and the prospect of further discoveries there, constitute forward looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking information is based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such information but which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to, assumptions in connection with the continuance of GoGold and its subsidiaries as a going concern, general economic and market conditions, mineral prices, the accuracy of mineral resource estimates, and the performance of the Parral project. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information.

Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from GoGold's expectations include exploration and development risks associated with GoGold's projects, the failure to establish estimated mineral resources or mineral reserves, volatility of commodity prices, variations of recovery rates, and global economic conditions. For additional information with respect to risk factors applicable to GoGold, reference should be made to GoGold's continuous disclosure materials filed from time to time with securities regulators, including, but not limited to, GoGold's Annual Information Form. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date of this release.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gogold-announces-results-of-annual-meeting-302100309.html

SOURCE GoGold Resources Inc.
VANCOUVER, March 26, 2024 - Libero Copper & Gold Corp. (TSXV: LBC) (OTCQB: LBCMF) ("Libero Copper") announces an aggregate of 4.400,000 incentive stock options (the "Options") have been granted to certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company. The Options are exercisable at a price of $0.48, expiring on March 26, 2034, subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval.

About Libero Copper

Libero Copper is a mineral exploration company, which is focussed on unlocking the value of the Mocoa copper-molybdenum porphyry deposit located in Putumayo, Colombia. Mocoa is being advanced by a highly disciplined and seasoned professional team with successful track records of discovery, resource development, and permitting in Colombia. Libero Copper prioritizes building strong relationships with the communities in which we operate and is dedicated to creating long-term value for our shareholders through responsible exploration to fuel the green energy future.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although Libero Copper believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, obtaining the receipt of final TSX Venture Exchange approval, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions and regulatory and administrative approvals, processes and filing requirements. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. The forward-looking information is stated as of the date of this news release and Libero Copper assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

SOURCE Libero Copper & Gold Corp..
ENDEAVOUR REPORTS STRONG FY-2023 RESULTS

Production of 1.1Moz at AISC of $967/oz  Adj. EBITDA of $1.0bn  Shareholder returns of $266m

OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (for continuing operations) Q4-2023 production of 280koz at an industry-low AISC of $947/oz; totalling 1,072koz at an AISC of $967/oz for FY-2023 11th consecutive year of achieving or beating production guidance at an industry-leading AISC Adjusted EBITDA of $292m for Q4-2023 and $1,047m for FY-2023 Adjusted Net Earnings of $42m (or $0.17/sh) for Q4-2023 and $230m (or $0.93/sh) for FY-2023 Operating Cash Flow before changes in WC of $246m (or $1.00/sh) for Q4-2023 and $746m (or $3.02/sh) for FY-2023 Healthy financial position with net debt of $555m and leverage of 0.50x Net Debt / Adj. EBITDA (LTM) despite investing $548m in organic growth and exploration and delivering $266m in shareholder returns during the year ROBUST SHAREHOLDER RETURNS FY-2023 dividend of $200m and share buybacks of $66m; 52% more than the minimum commitment Shareholder returns total $903m since first payment in Q1-2021, 77% more than the minimum commitment ATTRACTIVE ORGANIC GROWTH Sabodala-Massawa expansion and Lafigue project both on budget and on track for first gold in Q2-2024 Group M&I resources increased by 1.4Moz or 6% year-on-year to 26.7Moz as exploration prioritised the Tanda-Iguela project increasing its M&I resources by 303% to 4.5Moz, while P&P reserves decreased by 1.3Moz or 9% year-on-year to 13.9Moz, largely due to depletion, with resource to reserve conversion a key focus in 2024

London, 27 March 2024 - Endeavour Mining Plc (LSE:EDV, TSX:EDV, OTCQX:EDVMF) ("Endeavour", the "Group" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its FY-2023 operating and financial results, with highlights provided in Table 1 below.





Table 1: Highlights from continuing operations1



All amounts in US$ million unless otherwise specified THREE MONTHS ENDED YEAR ENDED 31 December 2023 30 September

2023 31 December 2022 31 December 2023 31 December 2022 ? FY-2023 vs. FY-2022 OPERATING DATA Gold Production, koz 280 281 294 1,072 1,161 (8)% Gold Sold, koz 285 278 290 1,084 1,150 (6)% All-in Sustaining Cost2, $/oz 947 967 885 967 849 +14% Realised Gold Price3, $/oz 1,945 1,903 1,760 1,919 1,808 +6% CASH FLOW Operating Cash Flow before changes in working capital 246 121 244 746 982 (24)% Operating Cash Flow before changes in working capital2, $/sh 1.00 0.49 0.99 3.02 3.96 (24)% Operating Cash Flow 167 115 288 619 910 (32)% Operating Cash Flow2, $/sh 0.68 0.47 1.17 2.51 3.67 (32)% PROFITABILITY Net Earnings Attributable to Shareholders (160) 60 (10) (23) 194 (112)% Net Earnings, $/sh (0.65) 0.24 (0.04) (0.09) 0.78 (112)% Adj. Net Earnings Attributable to Shareholders2 42 70 14 230 293 (22)% Adj. Net Earnings2, $/sh 0.17 0.28 0.06 0.93 1.18 (21)% EBITDA2 70 262 205 773 1,044 (26)% Adj. EBITDA2 292 263 256 1,047 1,133 (8)% SHAREHOLDER RETURNS2 Shareholder dividends paid - 100 - 200 170 +18% Share buybacks 26 20 24 66 99 (34)% ORGANIC GROWTH2 Growth capital spend 155 116 55 448 127 +253% Exploration spend from continuing operations 23 27 14 101 71 +42% FINANCIAL POSITION HIGHLIGHTS Net Debt, (Net Cash)2 555 445 (121) 555 (121) n.a. Net Debt, (Net Cash) / LTM Trailing adj. EBITDA4 0.50x 0.40x (0.09)x 0.50x (0.09)x n.a.

1 Continuing operations excludes the Boungou and Wahgnion mines which were divested on 30 June 2023 and the Karma mine which was divested on 10 March 2022. 2This is a non-GAAP measure, refer to the non-GAAP Measures section for further details. 3Realised gold price are inclusive of the Sabodala-Massawa stream and the realised gains/losses from the Group's revenue protection programme. 4Last Twelve Months ("LTM") Trailing Adj. EBITDA includes EBITDA generated by discontinued operations.

Management will host a conference call and webcast today, 27 March 2024, at 9:30 am EDT / 1:30 pm GMT. For instructions on how to participate, please refer to the conference call and webcast section at the end of the news release. Today the Management Discussion & Analysis, audited Financial Statements and Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023 have been submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and filed on SEDAR. The documents will shortly be available for inspection on the Company's website and at: https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism. In addition, the Company has published its 2023 Sustainability Report, which will shortly be available on the Company's website.

Ian Cockerill, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "I am delighted to have been appointed CEO of Endeavour at such a pivotal moment. As you can see from our 2023 results, Endeavour is well positioned with a high-quality portfolio and a resilient business model that is underpinned by a disciplined approach to capital allocation. During the year we delivered against our key objectives and produced 1.1Moz of gold, meeting our production guidance for the eleventh consecutive year, while achieving an all-in sustaining cost of $967 per ounce, maintaining our status as one of the lowest cost producers within the sector.

We continued to increase the quality of our portfolio as we advanced our two high-margin development projects, the Sabodala-Massawa expansion and the Lafigue development project, which are both on budget and slightly ahead of schedule with commissioning underway at both projects. We also divested our non-core Boungou and Wahgnion mines during the year, further strengthening the quality of the portfolio and increasing its geographic diversification.

Our exploration programme continues to support our robust project pipeline, with the addition of 3.4 million ounces of Indicated resources at our Tanda-Iguela discovery in Cote d'Ivoire. This 4.5 million ounce discovery is not only one of the most significant discoveries in West Africa in the last ten years, but a potential tier 1 deposit for Endeavour, that we discovered for an industry low cost of $11 per ounce.

In addition to investing over $548 million in organic growth and exploration during the year, we returned $266 million to our shareholders, through dividends and share buybacks. We returned $227 dollars for every ounce of gold that we produced, reiterating our commitment to delivering attractive shareholder returns.

The foundations are in place for 2024 to be a transformational year of delivery. I am focused on completing our growth projects and transitioning to a more cash generative phase, that will prioritise de-levering the balance sheet and delivering enhanced shareholder returns, ensuring that the growth that we unlock, immediately benefits all our stakeholders."

INVESTIGATION INTO CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S MISCONDUCT COMPLETED

As previously announced on 4 January 2024, the contract with former President and Chief Executive Officer, Sebastien de Montessus, was terminated for serious misconduct following an investigation undertaken by the Board of Directors into an irregular payment instruction issued by him, related to the disposal of the Agbaou asset undertaken by the Company. As a result of his serious misconduct, the Remuneration Committee of the Board determined to claw back remuneration totalling $29.1 million as announced on 18 January 2024.

The Board of Directors of Endeavour announced today, 27 March 2024, that the investigation is now complete and the key outcomes are: No restatement of historic financial statements and no material impact on 2023 annual financial results issued today, which are the subject of an unmodified audit opinion. Investigation found that Mr de Montessus, acting with certain others who are not employees of the Group: diverted a US$5.9 million payment to a third-party company in March 2021, and concealed his actions with repeated false representations to management, the Board and auditors; caused Endeavour to make two payments totalling US$15.0 million to the same third-party company in August and November 2020, deliberately disguising them as advance payments to a contractor through repeated false representations to management. No evidence of bribery, or of any payments being made to sanctioned persons or to terrorist groups. Ultimate beneficiaries of these payments have not been discovered, despite extensive investigation, as the recipient entity was liquidated immediately after the funds were transferred. Mr de Montessus provided implausible and untrue explanations of his conduct during the course of the Investigation. The Investigation is now complete.



Summary of actions taken and proposed: Mr de Montessus was terminated as CEO and President on 4 January. Clawback of remuneration totalling US$29.1 million announced on 18 January. Noting that these payments involved deliberate circumvention of our existing controls framework, the Board has nonetheless accelerated its review of internal controls in line with the new UK Corporate Governance Code, and has made immediate adjustments to certain controls relating to M&A activity.



For further information, please refer to the 2023 Annual Report at the following link.

The Board appointed Ian Cockerill, formerly Deputy Chair of the Board, as permanent Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director on 4 January. Ian brings over four decades of experience in the global natural resources sector and has held senior operational, project and executive positions at major mining companies, including Chief Executive Officer of Gold Fields and Anglo Coal.

SHAREHOLDER RETURNS PROGRAMME

Endeavour is pleased to continue to deliver attractive shareholder returns, in line with its capital allocation framework. As previously announced, the FY-2023 dividend amounts to $200.0 million, or $0.81 per share, which represents $25.0 million more than the minimum dividend commitment of $175.0 million for the year, reiterating Endeavour's strong commitment to paying supplemental shareholder returns. Endeavour's H2-2023 dividend amounts to $100m or $0.41 per share and was paid on 25 March 2024 to shareholders of record on 23 February 2024.

Shareholder returns are being supplemented through the Company's share buyback programme. A total of $65.7 million, or 3.0 million shares were repurchased during FY-2023, of which $25.7 million or 1.3 million shares were repurchased in Q4-2023. Furthermore, a total of $12.6 million or 0.7 million shares have been repurchased in FY-2024 up until 22 March 2024.

As shown in the table below, Endeavour has returned $266.4 million to shareholders for FY-2023 through dividends and share buybacks, 52% above the $175.0 million minimum dividend commitment for the year, and equivalent to $227 per ounce produced from all operations. Since the shareholder returns programme began to be paid in Q1-2021, Endeavour has returned over $903.0 million to shareholders in the form of dividends and buybacks, which represents $393.0 million or 77% more than its minimum commitment over the period.





Table 2: Actual Shareholder Returns vs. Minimum Commitment

MINIMUM ACTUAL SHAREHOLDER RETURNS SUPPLEMENTAL (All amounts in US$m) DIVIDEND COMMITMENT DIVIDENDS BUYBACKS COMPLETED TOTAL RETURNS SHAREHOLDER RETURNS FY-2020 60 60 - 60 - FY-2021 125 140 138 278 +153 FY-2022 150 200 99 299 +149 FY-2023 175 200 66 266 +91 TOTAL 510 600 303 903 +393

As previously stated, Endeavour implemented a dividend policy in 2021, with the goal of supplementing its minimum dividend commitment with additional dividends and share buybacks provided that the prevailing gold price remained above $1,500/oz and Endeavour's leverage remained below 0.5x Net Debt / Adj. EBITDA. Endeavour's goal is to increase its shareholder returns programme once its organic growth projects are completed, while simultaneously strengthening its balance sheet, thereby ensuring that its efforts to unlock growth immediately benefit all its stakeholders. Endeavour's next semi-annual dividend is expected to be announced in Q3-2024, along with its Q2 and H1-2024 financial results.

As announced on 20 March 2024, Endeavour has received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX") to renew its Normal Course Issuer Bid ("NCIB") for its share buyback programme. Under the NCIB, Endeavour is entitled to repurchase up to 5% of its total issued and outstanding shares as of 13 March 2024, or 12,259,943 shares, during the 12 month period of the NCIB, and up to 25% of the average daily trading volume ("ADTV") for the six months ended 29 February 2024, calculated in accordance with the rules of the TSX for purposes of the NCIB or 96,878 shares during each trading day, excluding purchases made in accordance with the block purchase exemptions under applicable TSX policies. All ordinary shares repurchased under the share repurchase programme will be cancelled. The renewed NCIB commenced on 22 March 2024 and ends on 21 March 2025, or such earlier date as Endeavour may complete its purchases pursuant to the notice of intention filed with the TSX.

Endeavour's previously announced automatic share purchase agreement with Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited ("Stifel") will continue to allow for the purchase of ordinary shares, subject to certain trading parameters, at times when Endeavour would not be active in the market due to regulatory close periods, its own internal trading black-out periods, insider trading rules or otherwise. Outside of these periods, ordinary shares may be repurchased in accordance with management's discretion and in compliance with applicable law.

Share purchases will be made by Stifel (or through its agent, Stifel Nicolaus Canada, Inc.) on the TSX and the London Stock Exchange, as well as through other designated exchanges and alternative trading systems in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements. The price paid for repurchased ordinary shares will be the market price of such ordinary shares at the time of acquisition or such other price as may be permitted in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements and Endeavour's existing shareholder authority to conduct share repurchases. Endeavour intends to ask shareholders to renew that authority at its 2024 AGM.





CASH FLOW SUMMARY

The table below presents the cash flow for Endeavour for the three month period ended 31 December 2023, 30 September 2023, and 31 December 2022, and the twelve month period ended 31 December 2023 and 31 December 2022 with accompanying explanations below.

Table 3: Cash Flow Summary

THREE MONTHS ENDED YEAR ENDED All amounts in US$ million unless otherwise specified Notes 31 December 2023 30 September

2023 31 December 2022 31 December 2023 31 December 2022 Net cash from/(used in), as per cash flow statement: Operating cash flows before changes in working capital1 246 121 244 746 982 Changes in working capital1 (80) (5) 44 (127) (73) Cash generated from discontinued operations - - 23 27 108 Cash generated from operating activities [1] 167 115 311 647 1,017 Cash used in investing activities [2] (211) (195) (172) (821) (521) Cash used in financing activities [3] (79) (125) (53) (277) (380) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash 15 (15) 34 17 (71) (DECREASE)/INCREASE IN CASH (108) (219) 119 (434) 45 Cash and cash equivalent position at beginning of period 625 845 833 951 906 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENT POSITION AT END OF PERIOD 517 625 951 517 951

1Continuing Operations excludes the Boungou and Wahgnion mines which were divested on 30 June 2023 and the Karma mine which was divested on 10 March 2022.

NOTES:

1) Operating cash flows increased by $51.8 million from $114.9 million (or $0.47 per share) in Q3-2023 to $166.7 million (or $0.68 per share) in Q4-2023 due to a higher realised gold price, lower taxes paid related to the timing of withholding tax payments and tax payments at Sabodala-Massawa, and lower exploration costs, partially offset by an increased working capital outflow.

Operating cash flows decreased by $370.6 million from $1,017.1 million (or $4.10 per share) in FY-2022 to $646.5 million (or $2.62 per share) in FY-2023 due to higher operating expenses, exploration costs and the timing of tax payments compounded by a reduction in cashflows generated by discontinued operations following the disposal of the Boungou and Wahgnion mines on 30 June 2023.

Notable variances are summarised below:

Working capital was an outflow of $79.5 million in Q4-2023, an increase of $74.3 million over the Q3-2023 outflow of $5.2 million. The outflow in Q4-2023 was largely driven by an outflow in trade and other receivables of $63.6 million related to the timing of VAT receipts, an outflow of inventories of $15.3 million mainly related to increased stockpiles at Sabodala-Massawa and Ity and a trade and other payables outflow of $3.0 million primarily related to the timing of supplier payments at Hounde and Ity. The working capital outflow in Q4-2023 was partially offset by an inflow in prepaid expenses and other items of $2.4 million related to decreased supplier prepayments at Hounde.

Working capital was an outflow of $126.9 million in FY-2023, an increase of $54.3 million over the FY-2022 outflow of $72.6 million, driven by an increase in outflows related to trade and other receivables due to the timing of VAT receipts and an increase in outflows related to increased stockpiles at Sabodala-Massawa and Ity.

Gold sales from continuing operations increased from 278koz in Q3-2023 to 285koz in Q4-2023 largely due to the timing of gold sales. The realised gold price from continuing operations increased from $1,898 per ounce for Q3-2023 to $2,007 per ounce for Q4-2023. Inclusive of the Group's Revenue Protection Programme, the realised gold price increased from $1,903 per ounce for Q3-2023 to $1,945 per ounce for Q4-2023.

Gold sales from continuing operations decreased from 1,150koz in FY-2022 to 1,084koz in FY-2023, due to lower Group production from continuing operations in FY-2023. The realised gold price from continuing operations increased from $1,791 per ounce for FY-2022 to $1,939 per ounce for FY-2023. Inclusive of the Group's Revenue Protection Programme, the realised gold price increased from $1,808 per ounce for FY-2022 to $1,919 per ounce for FY-2023.

Total cash cost per ounce decreased from $848 per ounce in Q3-2023 to $837 per ounce in Q4-2023, due to lower cash costs at Mana driven by lower open pit mining costs, higher by-product credits and an increase in capitalised waste, and lower cash costs at Sabodala-Massawa following increased gold production volumes, partially offset by higher cash costs at Hounde driven by higher royalties and G&A costs.

Total cash cost per ounce increased from $723 per ounce in FY-2022 to $837 per ounce in FY-2023 due to lower production and gold sold at Sabodala-Massawa and Mana, increases in fuel and consumable costs across the Group, higher royalty costs following a higher realised gold price and adverse impacts associated with the stronger EUR to USD foreign exchange rate in FY-2023.

As shown in the table below, income taxes paid decreased by $71.1 million from $142.0 million in Q3-2023 to $70.9 million in Q4-2023 due largely to a decrease in taxes paid at Sabodala-Massawa, as the final tax payments related to the 2022 tax year were made in Q3-2023, and a decrease in other tax payments from $50.7 million in Q3-2023 to $30.3 million in Q4-2023 due to lower withholding tax payments linked to cash that was upstreamed from operating entities.

Income taxes paid increased by $182.6 million from $158.3 million in FY-2022 to $340.9 million in FY-2023 due to an increase in Sabodala-Massawa's provisional year-end tax payments, which benefitted in the prior year from the lower 2021 tax base due to the tax holiday at the Massawa permit that expired in 2021. Taxes also increased due to withholding tax payments on cash upstreamed from the operating entities, higher taxes paid at Ity due to changes in taxation on the Floleu permit, and the timing of provisional tax payments at Hounde and Mana for 2023 which have a higher tax base.



Table 4: Tax Payments from continuing operations

THREE MONTHS ENDED YEAR ENDED All amounts in US$ million 31 December

2023 30 September

2023 31 December

2022 31 December

2023 31 December

2022 Hounde 16.5 11.3 9.8 51.7 46.8 Ity 18.6 9.3 - 61.5 30.5 Mana 5.5 5.4 2.7 26.8 12.9 Sabodala-Massawa - 65.3 - 116.4 16.8 Other1 30.3 50.7 - 84.5 51.3 Taxes paid by continuing operations 70.9 142.0 12.5 340.9 158.3

1Included in the "Other" category is income and withholding taxes paid by corporate and exploration entities.

2) Cashflows used in investing activities increased by $15.9 million from $195.1 million in Q3-2023 to $211.0 million in Q4-2023 due to accelerated growth capital spend in Q4-2023 at the Sabodala-Massawa expansion and the Lafigue development project.

Cashflows used in investing activities increased by $299.4 million from $521.4 million in FY-2022 to $820.8 million in FY-2023 largely due to the increases in growth capital incurred at the Sabodala-Massawa expansion, which was launched in Q2-2022, and the Lafigue development project, which was launched in Q4-2022, as well as increases in non-sustaining capital at the Ity and Mana mines. This was partially offset by a decrease in sustaining capital at Sabodala-Massawa.

Sustaining capital from continuing operations decreased from $22.5 million in Q3-2023 to $20.0 million in Q4-2023 due to lower sustaining capital expenditure at Hounde and Sabodala-Massawa following heavy mining equipment purchases made in the prior quarter.

Sustaining capital from continuing operations decreased from $97.5 million in FY-2022 to $91.8 million in FY-2023 due to decreased sustaining capital at Sabodala-Massawa related to decreased waste development activities, partially offset by an increase in sustaining capital at Mana related to increased underground development and stope production activity. Sustaining capital expenditure at Ity and Hounde were broadly consistent with the prior year.

Non-sustaining capital from continuing operations increased from $49.5 million in Q3-2023 to $52.5 million in Q4-2023, largely due to an increase in non-sustaining capital expenditure at Hounde related to pre-stripping activities in the Kari Pump pit, and at Ity related to increased cutback activities at the Walter pit and increased spend on the Mineral Sizer optimisation initiative. This was partially offset by decreased non-sustaining capital at Sabodala-Massawa and Mana related to decreased non-sustaining waste development.

Non-sustaining capital from continuing operations increased from $192.6 million in FY-2022 to $245.3 million in FY-2023 due to increased non-sustaining capital expenditure at Ity related to the construction of the Recyn and Mineral Sizer optimisation initiatives, the embankment raise at TSF 1 and the construction of TSF 2, and at Sabodala-Massawa due to increased pre-stripping activities as new pits were opened. This was partially offset by decreased non-sustaining capital expenditure at Mana as underground mine development advanced to stope production incurring less non-sustaining capital underground waste development. Non-sustaining capital expenditure at Hounde was broadly consistent with the prior year.

Growth capital increased from $116.2 million in Q3-2023 to $155.0 million in Q4-2023, as construction activities at the Sabodala-Massawa expansion and the Lafigue development project accelerated ahead of first gold production at both projects, expected in Q2-2024. Growth capital expenditure during the quarter also included $1.5 million for technical study work related to the Kalana project.

Growth capital increased from $126.5 million in FY-2022 to $447.5 million in FY-2023 largely due to the acceleration of construction activities at the Sabodala-Massawa expansion, which was launched in Q2-2022, and the Lafigue development project, which was launched in Q4-2022.

3) Cash flows used in financing activities decreased by $45.6 million from an outflow of $124.6 million in Q3-2023 to an outflow of $79.0 million in Q4-2023 largely due to the timing of dividend payments to shareholders and reduced dividend payments to minorities compared to the prior period. Cash flows used in financing activities in Q4-2023 included a $70.0 million repayment of the RCF during the quarter, payments of financing and other fees of $36.7 million related to the coupon payments for the senior notes and the RCF, payments for the acquisition of the Company's own shares through its share buyback programme of $24.7 million, payment of dividends to minorities of $12.7 million, and repayment of finance and lease obligations of $7.0 million. Financing cash outflows were party offset by a $72.1 million drawdown of the Lafigue term loan.

Cash flows used in financing activities decreased by $103.5 million from an outflow of $380.1 million in FY-2022 to an outflow of $276.6 million in FY-2023 largely due to drawings on the Company's RCF during the year offsetting the financing cash outflows from the settlement of the Company's convertible notes. Cash flows used in financing activities in FY-2023 included the $330.0 million settlement of the Company's convertible notes, dividends paid to shareholders of $200.4 million, payments of dividends to minorities of $74.7 million, repayment of the drawn portions of the Company's RCF of $70.0 million, payments of financing and other fees of $68.6 million largely related to the coupon payments for the senior notes and the RCF, payments for the acquisition of the Company's own shares through its share buyback programme of $61.5 million, settlement of contingent considerations of $50.0 million that was paid to Barrick Gold as part of the Massawa acquisition, cash settlement of call rights of $28.5 million related to outstanding call rights from Teranga, repayment of finance and lease obligations of $20.5 million and payments for the settlement of tracker shares of $18.4 million. Financing cash outflows were partly offset by a $642.2 million drawdown of long-term debt facilities (including $535.0 million drawn from the Company's RCF and $107.2 million drawn from the Lafigue term loan) and receipts on exercise of options and warrants of $5.9 million.

EARNINGS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

The table below presents the earnings and adjusted earnings for Endeavour for the three month periods ended 31 December 2023, 30 September 2023, and 31 December 2022 and the twelve month periods ended 31 December 2023 and 31 December 2022 with accompanying explanations below.

Table 5: Earnings from Continuing Operations1

THREE MONTHS ENDED YEAR ENDED All amounts in US$ million unless otherwise specified Notes 31 December

2023 30 September

2023 31 December

2022 31 December

2023 31 December

2022 Revenue [4] 579 530 508 2,115 2,069 Operating expenses [5] (209) (205) (186) (787) (720) Depreciation and depletion [6] (133) (114) (137) (448) (476) Royalties [7] (40) (32) (31) (134) (125) Earnings from mine operations 198 178 154 745 749 Corporate costs [8] (11) (10) (15) (49) (48) Impairment of mining interests and goodwill [9] (108) - (3) (123) (3) Share-based compensation (7) (5) (18) (29) (33) Other expense [10] (45) (7) (28) (55) (44) Exploration costs [11] (6) (15) (7) (48) (34) Earnings from operations 21 141 83 443 587 (Loss)/gain on financial instruments [12] (84) 7 (15) (118) (19) Finance costs (19) (19) (15) (71) (61) Earnings before taxes (82) 129 54 254 507 Current income tax expense [13] (75) (54) (48) (268) (258) Deferred income tax (expense)/recovery [14] 10 (2) 1 57 8 Net comprehensive earnings from continuing operations [15] (148) 74 7 43 257 Add-back adjustments [16] 205 13 19 262 109 Adjusted net earnings from continuing operations 57 87 26 305 366 Portion attributable to non-controlling interests 15 17 12 75 73 Adjusted net earnings from continuing operations attributable to shareholders of the Company [17] 42 69 14 230 293 Adjusted net earnings per share from continuing operations 0.17 0.28 0.06 0.93 1.18

1 Continuing Operations excludes the Boungou and Wahgnion mines which were divested on 30 June 2023 and the Karma mine which was divested on 10 March 2022.

NOTES:

4) Revenue increased by $49.3 million from $530.0 million in Q3-2023 to $579.3 million in Q4-2023 due to a $109 per ounce increase in the realised gold price from $1,898 per ounce in Q3-2023 to $2,007 per ounce in Q4-2023, exclusive of the Company's Revenue Protection Programme, further compounded by an increase in gold sales from continuing operations from 278koz in Q3-2023 to 285koz in Q4-2023 due to the timing of gold sales.

Revenue increased by $45.6 million from $2,069.0 million in FY-2022 to $2,114.6 million in FY-2023 due to a $148 per ounce increase in the realised gold price, exclusive of the Company's Revenue Protection Programme, from $1,791 per ounce in FY-2022 to $1,939 per ounce in FY-2023, which was partially offset by a decrease in gold sales from continuing operations from 1,150koz in FY-2022 to 1,084koz in FY-2023 due to lower production at the Sabodala-Massawa and Mana mines.

5) Operating expenses increased by $3.4 million from $205.3 million in Q3-2023 to $208.7 million in Q4-2023 largely due to the matching of accrued expenses from Q3-2023 associated to ounces produced in Q3-2023 and subsequently sold in Q4-2023, particularly at Sabodala-Massawa where ounces sold exceeded quarterly production.

Operating expenses increased by $67.2 million from $720.0 million in FY-2022 to $787.2 million in FY-2023 due to increased mining volumes at Hounde and Mana, increased processing volumes at Hounde, Sabodala-Massawa and Ity, increased fuel and consumable costs, and the impact of the stronger EUR to USD foreign exchange rate increasing costs in FY-2023 compared to FY-2022.

6) Depreciation and depletion increased by $18.2 million from $114.4 million in Q3-2023 to $132.6 million in Q4-2023 mainly due to higher production volumes achieved at Sabodala-Massawa as mining in the Sabodala pit, which is approaching the end of its mine life, incorporated higher associated depreciation rates.

Depreciation and depletion decreased by $27.6 million from $476.0 million in FY-2022 to $448.4 million in FY-2023 due to lower production volumes in combination with the lower depreciable base following the 2022 reserves and resource update.

7) Royalties increased by $8.4 million from $31.9 million in Q3-2023 to $40.3 million in Q4-2023 due to an increase in the realised gold price as noted above, higher volumes of gold sold and the previously disclosed impact of the change in the sliding scale royalty rates in Burkina Faso, which came into effect in November 2023.

Royalties increased by $9.2 million from $124.5 million in FY-2022 to $133.7 million in FY-2023 due to an increase in the realised gold price as noted above and the previously disclosed impact of the change in the sliding scale royalty rates in Burkina Faso, which came into effect in November 2023, partially offset by lower volumes of gold sold.

8) Corporate costs increased slightly from $10.4 million in Q3-2023 to $11.1 million in Q4-2023 due to higher general corporate costs associated with bonus accruals, partially offset by a reduction in employee compensation due to a credit in remuneration tied to forfeited compensation from the Company's former Chief Executive Officer.

Corporate costs increased slightly from $47.7 million in FY-2022 to $49.0 million in FY-2023 due to higher employee and professional service costs partially offset by a reduction in general corporate overhead.

9) The Group recognised a non-cash impairment of mining interest and goodwill of $122.6 million in FY-2023 consisting of $65.7 million recognised against exploration properties where there is no near term activities planned and $56.9 million recognised against the Kalana project based on updated assumptions from the ongoing technical studies. The recognition of impairments against exploration properties primarily related to a $32.5 million impairment of the Kamsongo license on the Nabanga property in Burkina Faso in Q4-2023, $16.9 million recognised against the Afema exploration properties in Cote d'Ivoire that are in the process of being sold (of which $14.8 million was recognised in Q2-2023 and a further $2.1 million recognised in Q4-2023), and $16.3 million related to other exploration properties where there are no intentions to renew the licenses. In addition, a $56.9 million impairment was recognised on the Kalana project in Q4-2023 in relation to the envisaged changes to capital expenditure assumptions within the ongoing technical study.

10) The Group recognised other expenses of $54.8 million in FY-2023 consisting of $24.9 million in tax settlements primarily related to indirect taxes at Sabodala-Massawa, $18.7 million in expected credit losses from cash receivables related to the Boungou and Wahgnion divestment (see additional details in the Non-Core Asset Divestment section below), $9.3 million in impairments of other receivables from Allied Gold ($5.9 million) and VAT ($3.4 million), a $4.3 million loss on the disposal of assets, $4.1 million in expected credit losses from other receivables, $1.8 million in acquisition and restructuring costs, and $0.8 million in community donations which were partly offset by $9.1 million in insurance proceeds received in relation to community disturbances.

11) Exploration costs decreased by $9.3 million from $14.9 million in Q3-2023 to $5.6 million in Q4-2023 as the Group's exploration programmes largely focused on analysis and interpretation of drilling results following the conclusion of the years' drilling programmes early in the quarter.

Exploration costs increased by $13.6 million from $33.9 million in FY-2022 to $47.5 million in FY-2023 largely due to the increased expense at the Tanda-Iguela greenfield property, where, as published on 29 November 2023, an extensive drilling programme consisting of 167,436 metres of drilling resulted in the delineation of a 4.5Moz Indicated resource, grading 1.97 g/t Au, which marked a 303% increase over the maiden Indicated resource estimate published in late 2022, thereby confirming its potential to be a Tier 1 asset.

12) The loss on financial instruments decreased by $91.5 million from a gain of $7.2 million in Q3-2023 to a loss of $84.3 million in Q4-2023 largely due to an increase in unrealised losses on gold collars and forward sales and the change in fair value of Net Smelter Return ("NSR") royalties related to asset sales partially offset by gains on foreign exchange movements. The loss on financial instruments in Q4-2023 included unrealised losses on gold collars and forward sales of $38.9 million, unrealised losses on NSRs related to the Boungou and Wahgnion divestment of $24.3 million, realised losses on gold collars and forward contracts of $17.8 million, and unrealised losses on marketable securities of $11.7 million related to the $50.0 million investment in Allied Gold shares. Losses on financial instruments were partially offset by unrealised foreign exchange gains of $8.0 million, an unrealised gain on foreign currency contracts of $0.7 million and realised gains on foreign currency contracts of $0.4 million.

The loss on financial instruments increased by $98.9 million from a loss of $19.1 million in FY-2022 to a loss of $118.0 million in FY-2023 and comprised of unrealised losses on NSRs and deferred consideration related to asset sales of $24.1 million, realised losses on gold collars and forward contracts of $21.3 million, unrealised losses on gold collars and forward contracts of $21.2 million, an unrealised loss on marketable securities of $20.5 million, a fair value loss on the conversion option of convertible notes of $14.9 million, unrealised foreign exchange losses of $13.3 million, a loss on the fair value of call rights of $9.0 million, unrealised losses on foreign currency contracts of $4.2 million, and a loss on the change in fair value of contingent considerations of $0.6 million related to Teranga's acquisition of the Massawa property. Losses on financial instruments were partially offset by an unrealised gain on the conversion of financial assets of $6.6 million related to the listing of Allied Shares and a realised gain on foreign currency contracts of $4.0 million and a gain on other financial instruments of $0.5 million.

As previously disclosed, in order to increase cash flow visibility during its construction and de-leveraging phases, Endeavour entered into a Revenue Protection Programme, using a combination of zero premium gold collars and forward sales contracts, to cover a portion of its 2023, 2024 and 2025 production.

During Q4-2023, 30koz were settled into forward sales contracts for an average gold price of $1,828/oz.

For FY-2024, approximately 450koz (approximately 113koz per quarter), are expected to be delivered into a collar with an average call price of $2,400/oz and an average put price of $1,807/oz. In addition, during H1-2024, a total of approximately 70koz (approximately 35koz per quarter) are expected to be settled in forward sales contracts with an average gold price of $2,033/oz.

For FY-2025, approximately 200koz (approximately 50koz per quarter) are expected to be delivered into a collar with an average call price of $2,400/oz and an average put price of $1,992/oz.

As previously disclosed, Endeavour entered into a Growth Capital Protection Programme designed to enhance cost certainty for a portion of its growth capital expenditure at its Sabodala-Massawa expansion and Lafigue growth projects. The Group had entered into various foreign exchange forward contracts across both the Euro and the Australian Dollar over 2023 and 2024.

During Q4-2023, 13.6 million was delivered into forward contracts at a blended rate of 1.03 EUR:USD and AU$6.5 million was delivered into forward contracts at a blended rate of 0.69 AUD:USD.

The total outstanding notional forward contracted quantum is approximately 13.0 million at a blended rate of 1.04 EUR:USD and approximately AU$5.7 million at a blended rate of 0.69 AUD:USD for 2024.

13) Current income tax expense increased by $21.3 million from $53.5 million in Q3-2023 to $74.8 million in Q4-2023 largely due to the recognition of withholding tax expenses of $30.1 million following local Board approvals for cash upstreaming at Ity and increased corporate taxes following higher taxable earnings during the quarter.

Current income tax expense increased by $10.1 million from $257.8 million in FY-2022 to $267.9 million in FY-2023 due to higher withholding tax expenses following larger amounts of cash upstreamed this year, partially offset by lower taxable earnings in FY-2023.

14) Deferred income tax increased by $11.3 million from the deferred income tax expense of $1.6 million in Q3-2023 to a deferred income tax recovery of $9.7 million in Q4-2023 mainly due to the deferred tax impact of the impairment of the Kalana project, partially offset by the effect of foreign exchange remeasurements on deferred tax balances.

Deferred income tax recovery increased by $49.6 million from $7.5 million in FY-2022 to $57.1 million in FY-2023 largely due to the reversal of deferred tax liabilities that were previously recognised on mining interests. These liabilities arose from the difference between Sabodala-Massawa's tax base and accounting base, which included fair value adjustments when it was initially acquired. In addition, the impairment of the Kalana project reduced its carrying value and the associated deferred tax liability, which also arose when the project was acquired.

15) Net comprehensive earnings from continuing operations decreased by $221.1 million from net comprehensive earnings of $73.6 million in Q3-2023 to a net comprehensive loss of $147.5 million in Q4-2023. The decrease in earnings is largely driven by the loss on financial instruments following the mark-to-market of gold collars, forward contracts and changes in foreign exchange rates in addition to the change in fair value of NSRs and marketable securities, the non-cash impairment charge on mineral interests, higher other expenses reflecting the impairment of deferred cash consideration from asset disposals and tax claims related to Sabodala-Massawa, higher tax expenses driven by the recognition of withholding taxes during the quarter and higher royalties.

Net comprehensive earnings from continuing operations decreased by $214.1 million from $256.8 million in FY-2022 to $42.7 million in FY-2023. The decrease in earnings is largely driven by the loss on financial instruments following the mark-to-market of gold collars, forward contracts and changes in foreign exchange rates, the non-cash impairment charge on mineral interests, higher tax expenses, higher exploration expense, and lower earnings from mine operations due to higher operating expenses and royalties.

16) For Q4-2023, adjustments included a non-cash impairment charge of $107.8 million as discussed above, a net loss on financial instruments of $66.5 million related to the unrealised loss on forward sales and collars and change in fair value of NSRs and marketable securities, other expenses of $45.1 million primarily related to the impairment of the deferred cash consideration mentioned above and a net loss from discontinued operations of $2.4 million related to a tax payment for the disposed Karma mine, partially offset by a gain on non-cash, tax and other adjustments of $14.8 million that mainly relate to the impact of foreign exchange remeasurements of deferred tax balances.

For FY-2023, adjustments included an impairment charge of $122.6 million related to the Group's exploration permit portfolio and the Kalana project, a net loss on financial instruments of $96.7 million, related to the unrealised loss on forward sales and collars and a change in fair value of NSRs and marketable securities and the fair value loss on the convertible option of convertible notes and other expenses of $54.8 million, partly offset by a gain on non-cash, tax and other adjustments of $11.8 million that mainly relate to the impact of the foreign exchange remeasurement of deferred tax balance.

17) Adjusted net earnings attributable to shareholders for continuing operations decreased by $27.4 million from $69.5 million (or $0.28 per share) in Q3-2023 to $42.1 million (or $0.17 per share) in Q4-2023, due to higher tax expense, higher depreciation, higher realised losses on gold forwards and higher royalties.

Adjusted net earnings attributable to shareholders for continuing operations decreased by $62.4 million from $292.7 million (or $1.18 per share) in FY-2022 to $230.2 million (or $0.93 per share) in FY-2023 due to lower operating margins, higher exploration costs, higher taxes and higher realised losses on gold forwards.

SUMMARISED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

The table below presents the summarised statement of financial position and liquidity for the Group as at 31 December 2023, and 31 December 2022, with accompanying explanations below.





Table 6: Summarised Statement of Financial Position

All amounts in US$ million unless otherwise specified Note As at 31

December 2023 As at 31 December 2022 ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents 517 951 Other current assets [18] 603 495 Total current assets 1,120 1,446 Mining interests [19] 4,157 4,517 Other long term assets [20] 581 451 TOTAL ASSETS 5,859 6,415 LIABILITIES Other current liabilities [21] 439 462 Current portion of debt [22] 9 337 Income taxes payable [23] 166 247 Total current liabilities 613 1,046 Long-term debt [24] 1,060 488 Environmental rehabilitation provision 115 165 Other long-term liabilities 58 54 Deferred income taxes 464 575 TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,310 2,327 TOTAL EQUITY 3,548 4,087 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 5,859 6,415

NOTES:

18) Other current assets as at 31 December 2023 consisted of $224.9 million of inventories, $269.2 million of trade and other receivables, $39.2 million of prepaid expenses and other, and $69.7 million of other financial assets.

Inventories decreased by $95.8 million from $326.3 million as at 31 December 2022 to $224.9 million as at 31 December 2023, primarily due to a reduction in spare parts and supplies as a result of the divestment of the Boungou and Wahgnion mines and reclassification of certain ore stockpiles to long-term at Sabodala-Massawa as they are not expected to be processed in the next twelve months.

Trade and other receivables increased by $162.3 million from $118.4 million as at 31 December 2022 to $269.2 million as at 31 December 2023, primarily due to the consideration-related receivables following the divestment of the Boungou and Wahgnion mines of $111.4 million, an increase in gold sales receivables of $24.5 million due to timing of shipments, an increase in VAT receivables of $30.6 million and an increase in other receivables of $9.5 million related primarily to the residual working capital payment outstanding for the sale of the Boungou and Wahgnion mines. These factors were partly offset by the decrease in advance payments of $13.7 million following the divestment of Boungou and Wahgnion.

Prepaid expenses and other decreased by $11.9 million from $58.9 million as at 31 December 2022 to $39.2 million as at 31 December 2023, primarily due to the reclassification of the investment in Allied shares after public listing from marketable securities to financial assets and the removal of Boungou and Wahgnion related prepayments. This was in part offset by an increase in insurance and security prepayments across the continuing Group.

Other financial assets increased by $53.1 million from $3.7 million as at 31 December 2022 to $69.7 million as at 31 December 2023 primarily due to the addition of the current portion of the net smelter royalty ("NSR") and deferred portion of the consideration for the sale of Boungou and Wahgnion.

19) Mining Interests decreased by $359.9 million from $4,517.0 million as at 31 December 2022 to $4,157.1 million as at 31 December 2023 due to the divestment of the Boungou and Wahgnion assets on 30 June 2023, the impairment on the Kalana project and the impairment of exploration properties, partly offset by $762.6 million of capital expenditure on mining interests during the year.

20) Other long-term assets increased by $129.9 million from $451.3 million as at 31 December 2022 to $581.2 million as at 31 December 2023 and consisted of $323.6 million of long-term stockpiles not expected to be processed in the next twelve months at the Hounde, Ity and Sabodala-Massawa mines, $134.4 million of goodwill allocated to the Sabodala-Massawa and Mana mines, other financial assets of $123.2 million that primarily comprise the deferred cash and NSR consideration elements of the sale of Boungou, Wahgnion and Karma mines, and $41.1 million of restricted cash mainly relating to reclamation bonds.

21) Other current liabilities decreased by $23.2 million from $461.9 million as at 31 December 2022 to $438.7 million as at 31 December 2023 and consisted of $406.9 million of trade and other payables, $17.5 million of other financial liabilities consisting of foreign currency, gold forward derivative contracts, PSU and DSU liabilities, and $14.3 million of lease liabilities. Trade and other payables increased by $52.3 million due to dividends payable to the minority shareholders at Ity and an increase in payables related to the BIOX and Lafigue growth projects, in part offset by the de-recognition of the Boungou and Wahgnion associated payables following their disposal. Other financial liabilities decreased primarily due to the settlements of the Barrick contingent liability of $50.0 million and the call-rights liability of $28.5 million, in part offset by an increase in derivative financial liabilities.

22) The current portion of debt decreased by $328.1 million from $336.6 million as at 31 December 2022 to $8.5 million as at 31 December 2023 due to the settlement of the Convertible Notes and the associated conversion option during Q1-2023, of which the principal of $330.0 million was repaid in cash at the Company's election and 835,254 shares were issued to holders of the Convertible Notes to settle the in the money option of $19.2 million as the share price was at a premium to the strike price at maturity.

23) Income taxes payable decreased by $80.9 million from $247.1 million as at 31 December 2022 to $166.2 million as at 31 December 2023 due largely to the de-recognition of Wahgnion and Boungou associated payables, the payment of tax assessments and the timing of 2023 provisional and 2022 true-up tax payments during FY-2023, partly offset by additional income tax expense accrued during FY-2023.

24) The non-current portion of long-term debt increased by $571.8 million from $488.1 million as at 31 December 2022 to $1,059.9 million as at 31 December 2023 due to the additional draw down on the RCF and the Lafigue Term Loan facility.







Table 7: Summarised Statement of Financial Position

THREE MONTHS ENDED YEAR ENDED All amounts in US$ million unless otherwise specified 31 December

2023 30 September

2023 31 December

2022 31 December

2023 31 December

2022 Cash and cash equivalents [25] 517 625 951 517 951 Principal amount of $500m Senior Notes 500 500 500 500 500 Drawn portion of $645m Revolving Credit Facility 465 535 - 465 - Local term loan financing 107 35 - 107 - Principal amount of Convertible Notes - - 330 - 330 Net Debt / (Net Cash)1 [26] 555 445 (121) 555 (121) Trailing twelve month adjusted EBITDA1,2 1,101 1,113 1,284 1,101 1,284 Net Debt (Net Cash) / Adjusted EBITDA (LTM) ratio1,2 0.50x 0.40x (0.09)x 0.50x (0.09)x

1Net debt, Adjusted EBITDA, and cash flow per share are Non-GAAP measures. Refer to the non-GAAP measure section in this press release and in the Management Report. 2Last Twelve Months ("LTM") Trailing EBITDA adj. includes EBITDA generated by discontinued operations.

25) At quarter end, Endeavour's liquidity remained strong at $757.1 million, consisting of $517.2 million of cash and cash equivalents, $180.0 million available through the Company's revolving credit facility and $59.9 million available through the Lafigue term loan.

26) Endeavour's net debt position has increased by $109.9 million, from $445.0 million at the end of Q3-2023 to $555.0 million at the end of Q4-2023. The net debt / Adjusted EBITDA (LTM) leverage ratio increased from 0.40x at the end of Q3-2023 to 0.50x at the end of Q4-2023.

NON-CORE ASSET DIVESTMENT

On 30 June 2023, Endeavour closed the divestment of its 90% interests in its non-core Boungou and Wahgnion mines in Burkina Faso to Lilium Mining ("Lilium"), a subsidiary of Lilium Capital which is an African and frontier markets focused strategic investment vehicle led by West African entrepreneurs.

The total consideration is comprised of: $130.0 million in the form of a reimbursement of historical shareholder loans, of which a total of $33.0 million has been received to date. The remaining $97.0 million is outstanding. $25.0 million in deferred cash consideration payable in two instalments of $10.0 million, which became payable in Q1-2024 and has not been received, and $15.0 million, which will become payable in Q2-2024. A deferred cash consideration comprised of 50% of the net free cashflow generated by the Boungou mine until $55.0 million has been paid. No payments have thus far been received for this deferred cash consideration as Lilium has not had any commercial production from Boungou since their acquisition given their election to place the mine on care and maintenance due to supply chain and security challenges. An NSR on Wahgnion commencing at closing of the transaction for 4.0% of gold sold, of which a total of approximately $2.6 million has been received as at 31 December 2023. An NSR on Boungou commencing at closing of the transaction for 4.0% of gold sold, of which a total of approximately $0.5 million has been received as at 31 December 2023.

Endeavour recorded an $18.7 million expected credit loss on the outstanding upfront and deferred cash considerations expected to be received from the divestment of the Boungou and Wahgnion mines in Q4-2023. The expected credit loss was calculated using an International Financial Reporting Standard ("IFRS") provision based on a probability of default (25%) and expected loss on default (60%) applied against the outstanding cash consideration.

In Q4-2023, Endeavour also recorded a $24.3 million unrealised loss on financial instruments related to the fair value change of the Boungou and Wahgnion NSRs, based on the performance of the assets since the divestment to reflect reduced resource upside assumptions within the expected NSRs proceeds. The updated life-of-mine scenario assumes production is limited to Proven and Probable reserves only.

Following the completion of the divestment on 30 June 2023, and owing to the significant delay in receipt of payment for the overdue proceeds of the total consideration, Endeavour has filed certain claims against Lilium and its financial institutions as detailed below: Endeavour Canada Holdings Corporation ("ECH") and Endeavour Gold Corporation ("EGC"), wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company, have certain claims ("Claims") under the terms of (i) a sale and purchase agreement between ECH and Lilium Gold ("LG") and Lilium Holdings Ltd ("LH", together with LG, "Lilium") (the "SPA") relating to the non-core asset divestment; and (ii) two stand-by letters of credit between related financial institutions in Burkina Faso (the "Financial Institutions") and each of EGC and ECH (the "SBLCs"), which were established to reimburse historical shareholder loans to the Endeavour group. The SPA Claim concerns the failure of Lilium to fulfil certain payment obligations under the SPA in relation to the shareholder loans as well as deferred consideration. The SBLC Claim concerns the failure of the Financial Institutions to honour their parallel payment obligations in relation to the shareholder loans under the SBLCs. The Company has filed for arbitration proceedings against both Lilium (with the London Court of International Arbitration in London) and the Financial Institutions (with the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris) on 1 March, 2024 and 29 February, 2024, respectively. Claims against Lilium are approximately $125.0 million, and claims against the Financial Institutions are approximately $99.0 million (in each case excluding interests and costs).







OPERATING SUMMARY

As previously disclosed, on 28 February 2024, we were saddened to report that a contractor colleague passed away on 27 February 2024, as a result of injuries sustained in an incident that occurred during maintenance activities at the Mana mine in Burkina Faso. The health, safety and welfare of our colleagues are our top priority and we extend our sincere sympathies and support to his family, colleagues and friends. Endeavour has conducted a comprehensive internal investigation into the incident and is focussed on improvements to training, front-line supervision and reviewing operational procedures.

The Group demonstrated strong safety performance in FY-2023, with a Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate ("LTIFR") from continuing operations of 0.05. Endeavour will continue to prioritise safety in accordance with its zero-harm target.

Q4-2023 production from continuing operations amounted to 280koz and was flat over Q3-2023 as the anticipated decrease at Hounde was offset by increases at Sabodala-Massawa (albeit by less than anticipated due to the lower grades encountered in the Sabodala pit as it enters its final phase of mining) and Mana, while Ity remained flat. The all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") decreased by $20/oz or 2.1% over Q3-2023 to approximately $947/oz despite a $24/oz increase in royalty costs linked to the higher realised gold price and the impact of the change in the sliding scale royalty rates in Burkina Faso, which came into effect in November 2023. The AISC benefitted from reductions at Sabodala-Massawa and Mana, which was offset by the increase at Hounde while Ity remained flat.

FY-2023 production from continuing operations amounted to 1,072koz, achieving the guided 1,060-1,135koz range and marking the 11th consecutive year of achieving or beating production guidance. The AISC from continuing operations amounted to an industry-leading $967/oz for FY-2023. As shown in the table below, Endeavour achieved near the top-end of the guided $895-950/oz AISC range, albeit 1.8% (representing $17/oz) above due to royalties being $18/oz higher than anticipated due to a higher realised gold price ($1,939/oz compared to the guidance gold price of $1,750/oz) and the increase in the Burkina Faso royalty rate which came into effect in November 2023.





Table 8: Group Production and All-In Sustaining Cost from Continuing Operations Compared to Guidance

2023 ACTUALS 2023 GUIDANCE PRODUCTION FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS 1,072 1,060 - 1,135 AISC FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE ROYALTY COSTS, $/oz 844 790 - 845 Royalty cost, $/oz1 123

105 AISC FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS, $/oz 967 895 - 950

12023 AISC guidance was based on a gold price of $1,750/oz compared to the realised gold price of $1,952/oz

FY-2023 production from continuing operations of 1,072koz, decreased by 89koz or 8% over the 1,161koz produced in FY-2022 due to lower production at Mana (due to the transition from an open-pit to an underground operation at the Wona deposit) and at Sabodala-Massawa (due to mining and processing of lower grade ore), while both Hounde and Ity achieved record annual production.

FY-2023 AISC from continuing operations increased by $118/oz, from $849/oz in FY-2022 to approximately $967/oz in FY-2023, as AISC increased at Hounde, Mana, Sabodala-Massawa and at Corporate, in addition to a $15/oz increase in royalty costs (from $108/oz in FY-2022 to $123/oz in FY-2023), which was partially offset by a decrease in AISC at Ity. The FY-2023 AISC from continuing operations increased by $3/oz from the preliminary $964/oz published on 22 January 2024 due to a reclassification of underground development costs at Mana, which was partially offset by a reduction in corporate costs tied to the former Chief Executive Officer's forfeited compensation.





Table 9: Group Production

THREE MONTHS ENDED YEAR ENDED All amounts in koz, on a 100% basis 31 December

2023 30 September

2023 31 December

2022 31 December

2023 31 December

2022 Hounde 84 109 63 312 295 Ity 74 73 82 324 313 Mana 37 30 46 142 195 Sabodala-Massawa 85 69 103 294 358 PRODUCTION FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS 280 281 294 1,072 1,161 Boungou1 - - 26 33 116 Wahgnion1 - - 36 68 124 Karma2 - - - - 10 GROUP PRODUCTION 280 281 355 1,173 1,410

1The Boungou and Wahgnion mines were divested on 30 June 2023. 2The Karma mine was divested on 10 March 2022.





Table 10: Group All-In Sustaining Costs

All amounts in US$/oz



THREE MONTHS ENDED YEAR ENDED 31 December

2023 30 September

2023 31 December

2022 31 December

2023 31 December

2022 Hounde 901 787 969 943 809 Ity 865 864 847 809 812 Mana 1,482 1,734 999 1,427 994 Sabodala-Massawa 700 840 661 767 691 Corporate G&A 41 40 52 48 43 AISC FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS 947 967 885 967 849 Boungou1 - - 1,118 1,639 1,064 Wahgnion1 - - 1,376 1,566 1,525 Karma2 - - - - 1,504 GROUP AISC3 947 967 954 1,021 933

1The Boungou and Wahgnion mines were divested on 30 June 2023. 2The Karma mine was divested on 10 March 2022. 3This is a non-GAAP measure, refer to the non-GAAP Measures section for further details.

2024 OUTLOOK

As published on 22 January 2023, the production guidance for FY-2024 amounts to 1,130-1,270koz, which marks an increase of up to nearly 200koz or 18.5% over the FY-2023 production from continuing operations of 1,072koz. This is largely due to the start-up of the Sabodala-Massawa BIOX Expansion project, expected in early May and the Lafigue project, expected in Q2-2024. The AISC is expected to remain consistent with that achieved over recent quarters at an industry-low $955-1,035/oz.

Group production is expected to be more heavily weighted towards H2-2024 while AISC is also expected to be lower in H2-2024 as the Group's organic growth projects are expected to significantly increase the quality of Endeavour's portfolio and performance at the Hounde mine is expected to be weighted towards H2-2024, due to the mine sequence and a temporary disruption to mining and processing activities due to a strike that occurred during Q1-2024. On 23 January 2024 a strike, led by a sub-contractor, at the Hounde mine resulted in a temporary stoppage of mining and processing activities that lasted for 11 days. The disruption is not expected to impact full year production and AISC guidance for the Hounde mine or the Group. More details on individual mine guidances have been provided in the below sections.

Total mine capital expenditure for FY-2024, consisting of both sustaining and non-sustaining capital spend, is expected to be approximately $315.0 million, which marks a decrease of $19.2 million or 6% compared to the FY-2023 expenditure.

Growth capital spend for FY-2024 is expected to amount to approximately $245.0 million, which marks a decrease of $202.5 million or 45% compared to the FY-2023 expenditure of $447.5 million. The FY-2024 expenditure is expected to consist of approximately $75.0 million of remaining growth capital for the Sabodala-Massawa BIOX Expansion project and approximately $170.0 million of remaining growth capital for the Lafigue project.

Exploration will continue to be a strong focus in FY-2024 with a company-wide exploration budget of $65.0 million. For FY-2024, approximately $15.0 million will be spent on the highly prospective Tanda-Iguela property in Cote d'Ivoire, which already ranks as one of the most significant discoveries made in West Africa over the last decade. Details on individual asset exploration programmes are provided in the operations section below.

OPERATING ACTIVITIES BY MINE

Hounde Gold Mine, Burkina Faso

Table 11: Hounde Performance Indicators

For The Period Ended Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q4-2022 FY-2023 FY-2022 Tonnes ore mined, kt 1,499 1,209 1,912 5,420 5,754 Total tonnes mined, kt 11,993 10,603 12,901 47,680 45,490 Strip ratio (incl. waste cap) 7.00 7.77 5.75 7.80 6.91 Tonnes milled, kt 1,360 1,400 1,359 5,549 5,043 Grade, g/t 2.15 2.68 1.55 1.92 1.92 Recovery rate, % 90 91 92 91 93 Production, koz 84 109 63 312 295 Total cash cost/oz 837 704 793 835 701 AISC/oz 901 787 969 943 809

Q4-2023 vs Q3-2023 Insights

Production decreased from 109koz in Q3-2023 to 84koz in Q4-2023, due to lower processed grades and slightly lower throughput and recoveries. Total tonnes mined increased due to higher utilisation of the mining fleet following the end of the wet season. Tonnes of ore mined increased as a higher volume of ore was mined in the Vindaloo Main pit, following waste stripping activity that completed in Q3-2023, which was partially offset by the lower volumes of ore mined from the Kari Pump and Kari West pits, which was in-line with mine sequencing. Tonnes milled decreased slightly due to a higher proportion of harder transitional and fresh ore in the mill feed. Processed grades decreased due to lower grade oxide ore sourced from the Kari Pump pit as well as a greater proportion of lower grade Kari West and Vindaloo Main ore. Recovery rates decreased slightly due to a higher proportion of transitional and fresh ore, with lower associated recoveries in the mill feed.

AISC increased from $787/oz in Q3-2023 to $901/oz in Q4-2023 due to lower production and sales, driven by the lower average grade in the ore blend, this was partially offset by a decrease in mining unit costs with the increase in volumes in Q4-2023 and a reduction in sustaining capital.

Sustaining capital expenditure decreased from $9.0 million in Q3-2023 to $5.4 million in Q4-2023 and primarily related to waste development at the Kari West pit, plant equipment upgrades and heavy mining equipment maintenance.

Non-sustaining capital expenditure increased from $3.3 million in Q3-2023 to $7.6 million in Q4-2023, and primarily related to the ongoing waste development at the Kari Pump pit and the stage 8 and 9 tailings storage facility ("TSF") raises.





FY-2023 vs FY-2022 Insights

FY-2023 production totalled a record 312koz, exceeding the guided 270-285koz range, due to higher than expected grades from the Kari Pump pit as well as better than expected mill performance following the completion of processing plant optimisation initiatives that improved mill availability and reduced blockages. FY-2023 AISC amounted to approximately $943/oz, which was above the $850-925/oz guided range due to higher royalty payments, in addition to increases in consumable costs and longer waste hauling distances during the year.

Production increased from 295koz in FY-2022 to 312koz in FY-2023 due to increased mill throughput, driven by optimisation initiatives, which was partially offset by slightly lower recoveries due to changes in the ore blend. AISC increased from $809/oz in FY-2022 to $943/oz in FY-2023 due to higher royalty costs, higher sustaining capital expenditure and higher mining and processing costs following fuel and consumable cost increases.





2024 Outlook

Hounde is expected to produce between 260-290koz in FY-2024 at AISC of $1,000-1,100/oz.

On 23 January 2024 a strike led by a sub-contractor at the Hounde mine resulted in a temporary stoppage of mining and processing activities lasting 11 days. The stoppage is expected to impact Q1-2024 production and AISC, but at this stage it is not expected to impact full year production and AISC guidance, with mine plan optimisation strategies underway in order to catch up lost production through the remainder of the year.

Mining activities are expected to continue to focus on the Vindaloo Main, Kari Pump, and Kari West pits. In H1-2024, ore is expected to be primarily sourced from the Kari West pit while stripping activities focus on the Kari Pump and Vindaloo Main pits, while in H2-2024, a greater volume of ore is expected to be mined from the higher grade Kari Pump pit. Production is expected to be weighted towards H2-2024 with greater volumes of higher grade ore from the Kari Pump pit expected to be mined in H2-2024. Tonnes of ore milled are expected to decrease in FY-2024 as a lower proportion of soft oxide ore from the Kari West pit is anticipated in the ore blend as the Kari West pit advances into harder transitional and fresh ore. The increase in the proportion of harder transitional and fresh material in the ore blend is expected to result in a slight decrease in grades and processing recoveries in addition to slightly higher mining and processing unit costs, driving higher AISC compared to FY-2023. In addition, royalty costs are expected to be higher due to the higher prevailing current gold price and the change in the sliding scale royalty rates that became effective in November 2023 in Burkina Faso (with the new rate resulting in a $28/oz increase at a gold price of $1,850/oz).

Sustaining capital expenditure is expected to increase from $33.9 million in FY-2023 to approximately $40.0 million in FY-2024, and primarily relates to waste stripping at the Kari Pump and Kari West pits, mining fleet component rebuilds and replacements, processing plant equipment upgrades and dewatering borehole drilling.

Non-sustaining capital expenditure is expected to decrease from $38.3 million in FY-2023 to approximately $20.0 million in FY-2024, and primarily relates to stripping activity associated with a push back at the Vindaloo Main pit, the stage 8/9 TSF raise and land compensation for the third TSF cell.





Ity Gold Mine, Cote d'Ivoire

Table 12: Ity Performance Indicators

For The Period Ended Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q4-2022 FY-2023 FY-2022 Tonnes ore mined, kt 1,721 1,246 1,662 6,790 7,044 Total tonnes mined, kt 7,349 6,020 6,043 27,891 23,946 Strip ratio (incl. waste cap) 3.27 3.83 2.64 3.11 2.40 Tonnes milled, kt 1,593 1,494 1,710 6,714 6,351 Grade, g/t 1.63 1.60 1.73 1.63 1.80 Recovery rate, % 91 93 87 92 85 Production, koz 74 73 82 324 313 Total cash cost/oz 829 826 816 777 769 AISC/oz 865 864 847 809 812



Q4-2023 vs Q3-2023 Insights

Production remained flat at 74koz in Q4-2023 as higher tonnes milled and higher processing grades were offset by lower recoveries. Total tonnes mined increased, as anticipated, due to increased mining rates following the wet season in the prior quarter and increased stripping activities at the Walter pit cutback. Similarly, tonnes of ore mined increased following the end of the wet season as ore mining focussed on the Ity, Walter, Bakatouo and Le Plaque pits, with supplemental contributions from the Verse Ouest pit and stockpiles. Tonnes milled increased due to higher crusher availability following the wet season impact in the prior quarter. Processed grades increased slightly due to higher volumes of higher grade ore sourced from the Ity and Bakatouo pits in the mill feed, which was partially offset by lower grade ore sourced from the Walter and Le Plaque pits during the quarter. Recovery rates decreased slightly due to a higher proportion of fresh ore, with lower associated recoveries, in the mill feed.

AISC remained flat at $865/oz in Q4-2023 as higher royalty rates associated with higher gold prices were offset by lower processing unit costs associated with increased processing volumes following the end of the wet season.

Sustaining capital expenditure remained flat at $2.7 million in Q4-2023 and primarily related to dewatering borehole drilling and plant equipment upgrades.

Non-sustaining capital expenditure slightly increased from $23.3 million in Q3-2023 to $26.0 million in Q4-2023 and primarily related to cut back activities at the Walter pit, TSF 2 construction, development of the Mineral Sizer and Recyn optimisation initiatives.





FY-2023 vs FY-2022 Insights

FY-2023 production totalled a record 324koz, exceeding the guided 285-300koz range, due to higher than expected throughput as a high proportion of soft oxide ore was mined, largely from the Le Plaque pit, which was supported by the continued use of the surge bin, and higher than expected recoveries. FY-2023 AISC amounted to approximately $809/oz, which was below the guided $840-915/oz range, largely due to higher than expected gold sales volumes in addition to lower than expected mining and processing unit costs as a result of higher than expected volumes of ore mined and processed.

Production increased from 313koz in FY-2022 to 324koz in FY-2023 following an increase in throughput rates due to the processing of a greater proportion of softer oxide ore and an increase in recovery rates related to the cessation of mining at the Daapleu pit in 2023, which was partially offset by lower average processed grades. FY-2023 AISC decreased slightly from $812/oz in FY-2022 to $809/oz in FY-2023 due to the increase in gold sales volume and lower sustaining capital expenditure.





2024 Outlook

Ity is expected to produce between 270 - 300koz at an AISC of $850 - $925/oz.

Ore mining activities are expected to focus on the Ity, Bakatouo, Walter, Le Plaque and Daapleu pits, which will be supplemented with ore from the Verse Ouest pit and stockpiles. Production is expected to be slightly higher in the first half of the year due to greater availability of high grade ore from the Ity and Bakatouo pits in the mine plan and the wet season impact in H2-2024 on mining and milling rates. Throughput is expected to be slightly higher than in FY-2023, due to the commissioning of the Mineral Sizer in H2-2024, which is expected to increase throughput rates during the wet season. Milled grades and recoveries are expected to decrease slightly compared to FY-2023, due to the introduction of lower grade semi-refractory ore from the Daapleu pit. AISC is expected to increase in FY-2024 due to the guided lower levels of production and gold sales.

Sustaining capital expenditure is expected to be consistent with FY-2023 at approximately $10.0 million in FY-2024 and is primarily related to waste stripping activities across several pits, de-watering borehole drilling and processing plant upgrades and replacements.

Non-sustaining capital expenditure is expected to decrease from $102.8 million in FY-2023 to approximately $45.0 million in FY-2024, and is primarily related to pre-stripping activity at the Daapleu pit, TSF 2 earthworks and site infrastructure, in addition to the ongoing Mineral Sizer development and other smaller optimisation initiatives. The Mineral Sizer, which was launched in 2023 for a total capex of $19.0 million, is expected to be commissioned in H2-2024, and will add an additional primary crusher for the oxide ores in order to sustain higher plant throughput rates regardless of the ore blend.





Mana Gold Mine, Burkina Faso

Table 13: Mana Performance Indicators

For The Period Ended Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q4-2022 FY-2023 FY-2022 OP tonnes ore mined, kt 169 297 338 1,298 1,260 OP total tonnes mined, kt 805 1,508 1,057 6,001 3,615 OP strip ratio (incl. waste cap) 3.77 4.08 2.13 3.62 1.87 UG tonnes ore mined, kt 432 349 299 1,314 944 Tonnes milled, kt 515 643 643 2,443 2,607 Grade, g/t 2.59 1.66 2.33 2.01 2.49 Recovery rate, % 89 88 93 91 92 Production, koz 37 30 46 142 195 Total cash cost/oz 1,207 1,599 941 1,284 943 AISC/oz 1,482 1,734 999 1,427 994

Q4-2023 vs Q3-2023 Insights

Production increased from 30koz in Q3-2023 to 37koz in Q4-2023 due to a higher processed grade, partially offset by lower tonnes milled. Total open pit tonnes mined decreased as mining rates at the Maoula open pit decreased as the pit approaches the end of its economic mine life. Total underground tonnes of ore mined increased as stope production accelerated at the Wona and Siou Underground deposits. Underground development continued to ramp-up with 3,059 metres of development completed across both Siou and Wona compared to 2,685 metres of development completed in the prior quarter. Tonnes milled decreased as tonnes of ore mined from the Maoula open pit decreased and the plant was limited to available ore from underground sources. Average grades processed increased due to a higher proportion of higher-grade ore from stope production at the Wona and Siou underground deposits in the mill feed replacing lower grade ore from the Maoula open pit. Recovery rates increased slightly due to changes in the ore blend.

AISC decreased from $1,734/oz in Q3-2023 to $1,482/oz in Q4-2023 due to higher volumes of gold sold associated with the continued ramp-up of the Wona underground mine. The Q4-2023 AISC increased from preliminary AISC of $1,301/oz published on 22 January 2024 due to a reclassification of lateral underground waste development from non-sustaining capital into operating expense, partly offset by a reclassification of underground contractor mobilisation costs from sustaining capital to non-sustaining capital.

Sustaining capital expenditure increased from $4.2 million in Q3-2023 to $10.3 million in Q4-2023 and primarily related to infrastructure improvements.

Non-sustaining capital expenditure decreased from $11.6 million in Q3-2023 to $8.8 million in Q4-2023 and primarily related to underground development, underground infrastructure and the stage 5 TSF embankment raise.



FY-2023 vs FY-2022 Insights

FY-2023 production totalled 142koz which, as previously disclosed, was below the guided 190-210koz range and FY-2023 AISC amounted to approximately $1,427/oz, which as previously disclosed, was above the guided $950-$1,050/oz guided range, due to a slower than expected ramp up by a new underground mining contractor at the Wona underground deposit resulting in lower than expected ore tonnes mined and consequently processed grades and throughput.

Production decreased from 195koz in FY-2022 to 142koz in FY-2023 largely due to lower grades milled as lower grade ore sourced from the Maoula open pit supplemented the mill feed and due to lower underground grades as the Wona underground deposit continues to ramp up, partially offset by higher underground mined tonnes. AISC increased from $994/oz in FY-2022 to $1,427/oz in FY-2023 due to lower volumes of gold sold, higher open pit strip ratio, higher underground mining unit costs and higher fuel and consumable costs.





2024 Outlook

Mana is expected to produce within the 150 - 170koz range at an AISC above the guided $1,200 - $1,300/oz range.

Production is expected primarily from the Siou and Wona underground mines, with open pit activities tailing off during Q1-2024. A further step-up in stoping is expected at Wona, which will be the primary contributor in 2024, with production weighted toward H2-2024. Throughput is expected to be higher than FY-2023 due to the availability of ore from Siou and Wona. AISC is expected to decrease in FY-2024 due to guided increase in production and gold sales. As previously disclosed, on 28 February 2024, and detailed above in the Operating Summary section, a contractor colleague passed away on 27 February 2024 at the Mana mine. The underground mining contractor ceased its mining operations in the Wona underground mine while the investigation was undertaken, and they resumed operations within two days. The stoppage is not expected to impact Q1-2024 performance or FY-2024 performance as processing activities were not impacted.

Sustaining capital expenditure outlook for FY-2024 is $15.0 million, which relates primarily to underground development activities at Wona.

Non-Sustaining capital expenditure outlook for FY-2024 is expected to be $45.0 million, a decrease from $53.6 million incurred in FY-2023. Non-sustaining spend in FY-2024 primarily consists of continued underground development at Wona as the mine reaches its stoping rate and TSF construction.





Sabodala-Massawa Gold Mine, Senegal

Table 14: Sabodala-Massawa Performance Indicators

For The Period Ended Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q4-2022 FY-2023 FY-2022 Tonnes ore mined, kt 1,884 1,745 1,727 6,205 6,449 Total tonnes mined, kt 11,319 11,989 12,645 45,943 49,259 Strip ratio (incl. waste cap) 5.01 5.87 6.32 6.40 6.64 Tonnes milled, kt 1,255 1,175 1,154 4,755 4,289 Grade, g/t 2.31 2.06 3.16 2.15 2.88 Recovery rate, % 89 91 88 89 89 Production, koz 85 69 103 294 358 Total cash cost/oz 686 758 559 688 577 AISC/oz 700 840 661 767 691



Q4-2023 vs Q3-2023 Insights

Production increased from 69koz in Q3-2023 to 85koz in Q4-2023 due to an increase in processed grades and throughput, which was partially offset by a slight decrease in recovery rates. Total tonnes mined decreased due to a decrease in mining activities at the Bambaraya pits in-line with the mine plan, and lower waste stripping at the Sabodala pit following stripping activities earlier in the year. The decrease was partially offset by increased stripping activities at the Massawa Central Zone pits to access higher-grade refractory ore zones ahead of the expected start-up of the BIOX Expansion project in Q2-2024, and higher mining volumes from the Niakafiri East and Sofia North Extension pits. Tonnes of ore mined increased as stripping activities earlier in the year provided greater access to ore zones at the Sabodala pit. Tonnes milled increased as the ore blend contained a higher proportion of softer oxide ore from the Niakafiri East pit and stockpiles. Average processed grades increased due to higher grade ore sourced from the Sabodala, Massawa Central Zone and Sofia North Extension pits, displacing the comparatively lower grade ore from the Bambaraya pits Recovery rates decreased slightly due to an increased proportion of transitional ore from the Massawa Central Zone pits in the mill feed impacting recoveries.

AISC decreased from $840/oz in Q3-2023 to $700/oz in Q4-2023 due to increased gold sales driven by higher average grades and throughput, in addition to lower sustaining capital incurred during the period.

Sustaining capital expenditure decreased from $5.5 million in Q3-2023 to $1.3 million in Q4-2023 and primarily related to waste capitalisation at the Niakafiri East pit and mining equipment rebuilds.

Non-sustaining capital expenditure decreased from $10.9 million in Q3-2023 to $8.3 million in Q4-2023 and primarily related to ongoing development activities in the Massawa area, Samina grade control activities, purchase of mining equipment and early phase solar power plant construction costs.





FY-2023 vs FY-2022 Insights

FY-2023 production totalled 294koz, which was below the 315-340koz guidance range due to lower production than expected in Q4-2023. This was due to lower than anticipated tonnage of high-grade ore extracted from the Sabodala pit as mining rates decreased with the deeper elevations in the pit ahead of its final phase of mining and lower grade ore mined from the Massawa Central zone. FY-2023 AISC amounted to $767/oz, near the lower end of the $760-$810/oz guided range, due to lower than planned sustaining capital incurred in the year.

Production decreased from 358koz in FY-2022 to 294koz in FY-2023 due to lower average grades milled, partially offset by increased throughput due to an increased proportion of oxide ore in the mill feed. AISC increased from $691/oz in FY-2022 to $767/oz in FY-2023 due largely to lower volumes of gold sold and higher mining unit costs due to increased fuel and consumable costs, partially offset by lower processing unit costs.





2024 Outlook

Sabodala-Massawa is expected to produce between 360 - 400koz in FY-2024 at a post BIOX Expansion commercial production AISC of $750 - $850/oz.

Ore for the existing CIL plant is expected to be primarily sourced from the Sabodala, Sofia North Extension and Niakafiri East pits, with supplementary ore expected to be sourced from the Kiesta pit in H2-2024. Throughput in the CIL plant is expected to decrease slightly compared to the prior year due to a higher proportion of fresh ore from the Sabodala and Sofia North Extension pits expected in the mill feed. Average processed grades in the CIL plant are expected to decrease slightly compared to the prior year, in-line with mine sequencing, with an increased proportion of the mill feed sourced from the lower grade Niakafiri East pit and stockpiles. Recovery rates in the CIL plant are expected to be largely consistent with the prior year.

Refractory ore for the BIOX plant is expected to be primarily sourced from the Massawa Central and Massawa North Zone pits. Refractory ore mined in H1-2024 is expected to be stockpiled ahead of the startup of the BIOX Expansion project, expected in early May, and will result in H2-2024 weighted production for Sabodala-Massawa.

Sustaining capital expenditure is expected to increase from $23.8 million in FY-2023 to $35.0 million in FY-2024 and is primarily related to capitalised waste stripping as well as mining fleet upgrades and re-builds and process plant upgrades.

Non-sustaining capital expenditure is expected to decrease from $46.2 million in FY-2023 to $40.0 million in FY-2024 and is primarily related to infrastructure for the deposition of tailings in the Sabodala pit which is expected to commence in FY-2025, advanced grade control activities at Kiesta, the TSF 1 embankment raise, purchases of new mining equipment, mine infrastructure and haul roads for the Kiesta mining area.

As announced on 2 August 2023, in order to significantly reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and lower power costs at Sabodala-Massawa, the construction of a 37MWp photovoltaic ("PV") solar facility and a 16MW battery system at the Sabodala-Massawa mine, is expected to amount to non-sustaining capital of $45.0 million for FY-2024. The initial capital cost for the solar project is expected to amount to $55.0 million, of which $5.5 million was incurred in FY-2023 mainly related to detailed engineering and design. and down payments for the procurement of long-lead items. The solar plant construction is expected to be completed by Q1-2025.

Growth capital expenditure is expected to be approximately $75.0 million and is related to the BIOX Expansion project as detailed below.





Plant Expansion

Construction of the Sabodala-Massawa expansion project was launched in April 2022 and remains on budget and on schedule with wet commissioning underway and first gold expected in early May.

Growth capital expenditure for the expansion project is $290.0 million of which approximately $259.8 million or 90% of the total growth capital has now been committed, with pricing in line with expectations. $218.3 million, or 75%, of the growth capex incurred as at the end of FY-2023, of which $186.4 million was incurred in FY-2023 and $75.0 million is expected to be incurred in FY-2024 .

The progress regarding the critical path items is detailed below: The crushing, grinding and flotation circuits has been completed and successfully wet commissioned during February with crushing, grinding and flotation of ore now underway. BIOX reactors have been completed and the first two of six 1,220m 3 reactors has been filled with inoculum, with flotation concentrate from the Massawa ore now being fed through the BIOX circuit. Construction of the neutralisation and CCD areas were completed in February. The 18MW power plant expansion was completed and handed over to the operating team during the quarter. TSF construction is largely complete with final lining activities ramping-down. Final electrical, piping, and cable pulling is on-going on all work fronts.







Lafigue Project, Cote d'Ivoire

Project Update

Construction of the Lafigue project in Cote d'Ivoire was launched in early Q4-2022, following the completion of a DFS which confirmed Lafigue's potential to be a cornerstone asset for Endeavour. First gold production is expected ahead of schedule in Q2-2024, rather than Q3-2024.

Growth capital expenditure for the project is approximately $448.0 million, of which approximately $410.9 million or 92% has now been committed to date, with pricing in line with expectations. $320.6 million, or 72%, of the growth capex incurred to date, of which $242.1 million was incurred in FY-2023 and approximately $170.0 million is expected to be incurred in FY-2024 mainly related to construction activities at the process plant, site infrastructure and commissioning activities.

The construction progress regarding critical path items is detailed below: Construction activities are well advanced with the crushing area, milling, CIL, and elution circuits completed. Delivery of all the project shipments is over 99% complete with all key items on site. The 225kV power substation is complete with the Dabakala Switchyard and overhead power lines successfully energised during December 2023. HDPE lining of the tailings storage facility is completed. Mining equipment mobilisation has advanced and mining activities commenced during Q4-2023, with approximately 2,906 kt of material moved during Q4-2023 and 8,250 kt of material moved to date. Ancillary infrastructure including admin buildings, accommodation and offices are now largely complete.







2024 Outlook

First gold production at Lafigue is expected ahead of schedule in Q2-2024. Lafigue is expected to produce between 90-110koz in FY-2024 at a post commercial production AISC of $900-975/oz, which is in line with the Definitive Feasibility Study ("DFS") assumptions.

Mining activities are expected in the western and eastern flanks of the Lafigue pit, as well as the West pit. Total mined tonnes are expected to ramp-up through the year as the fleet is progressively mobilised. Ramp-up of the processing plant is expected to be completed in H2-2024 and average processed grades are expected to increase through the ramp-up period as mining advances into the Lafigue pit through the year. Recovery rates are expected to be above 90%, while processing costs are expected to decrease through the ramp-up period.

As per the DFS, sustaining capital expenditure is expected to amount to $25.0 million in FY-2024 and is primarily related to capitalised waste stripping activities, advanced grade control drilling and spare parts purchases.

As per the DFS, non-sustaining capital expenditure is expected to amount to $5.0 million in FY-2024 and is primarily related to the commencement of a TSF lift in H2-2024, once there is sufficient waste rock available from mining operations, and waste stripping activity in the eastern flank of the Lafigue pit.

Tanda-Iguela Project, Cote d'Ivoire

Project Update

A Preliminary Feasibility Study ("PFS") was launched in Q4-2023, based on the November 2023 resource update, which is expected to be finalised in late 2024. Long lead items within the PFS have been started, including metallurgical sampling, geotechnical, hydrogeological and sterilisation drilling as well as environmental permitting. Metallurgical sampling and testing is underway to follow up on the preliminary phase of testwork, which demonstrated that Assafou was amenable to conventional CIL processing with the potential for high gravity recoverable gold and overall recoveries above 94%. Geotechnical and hydrogeological drilling are underway across the Assafou deposit. Sterilisation drilling is underway to the northeast of the Assafou deposit to identify and sterilise the probable location for mine and processing infrastructure. The environmental permitting process has been launched with study work underway that will form the basis of the environmental reporting.

For FY-2024 a $15.0 million exploration programme is planned at Tanda-Iguela, focused on converting resources to reserves, continuing to expand the existing Assafou resources and adding new resources at Assafou and at the prospective surrounding targets within the Tanda-Iguela permits, within 5 kilometres of the Assafou deposit. Further details on the ongoing exploration programme can be found in the Exploration section below.





EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES

Endeavour's FY-2023 exploration programme comprised $100.9 million of spend, with over 395,000 metres of drilling completed, of which $22.6 million was spent in Q4-2023, including over 33,000 metres of drilling.

During the year, exploration activities were mainly focussed on identifying near mine opportunities to delineate new reserves and resources over the coming years and expanding resources at the Tanda-Iguela property in Cote d'Ivoire, which now hosts an Indicated resource of 4.5Moz at 1.97 g/t Au, up 303% over the maiden Indicated resource declared in Q4-2022.

Endeavour remains on track to achieve its 5-year exploration target to discover 12 - 17Moz of Indicated resources over the 2021 to 2025 period, at the low discovery cost of less than $25 per ounce.





Table 15: Q4-2023 and FY-2023 Exploration Expenditure and FY-2024 Guidance1

Q4-2023 ACTUAL



FY-2023 ACTUAL



FY-2024 GUIDANCE



All amounts in US$ million Hounde mine 1.4 8.0 7.0 Ity mine 1.8 16.0 10.0 Mana mine 0.8 7.1 2.0 Sabodala-Massawa mine 4.0 19.3 21.0 Lafigue project 0.6 1.7 4.0 Tanda-Iguela Project 5.1 36.6 15.0 Greenfields 8.9 12.2 6.0 TOTAL EXPLORATION EXPENDITURE 22.6 100.9 65.0

1Exploration expenditures include expensed, sustaining, and non-sustaining exploration expenditures.





Hounde mine

An exploration programme of $8.0 million was undertaken in FY-2023 with $1.4 million spent in Q4-2023 consisting of 27,723 metres of drilling across 155 drill holes. The exploration programme was focused on identifying additional resources below the Kari West deposit, evaluating the underground potential of the Vindaloo deposit and testing new near-mine targets including the Kari Bridge target.

During Q4-2023, drilling continued to follow the continuity of mineralisation at depth below the Vindaloo deposit where thick mineralised lenses have been identified with the potential to delineate a high-grade underground resource. Following drilling earlier in the year, resource modelling of the Kari Bridge target, in between Kari Pump and Kari West, continued to determine the economics of mineralisation identified at this new target.

An exploration programme of $7.0 million is planned for FY-2024, focused on delineating targets at depth within the Kari Area and at the Vindaloo Deeps target, as well as adding resources at the existing deposits.





Ity mine

An exploration programme of $16.0 million was undertaken in FY-2023, of which $1.8 million was spent in Q4-2023 consisting of 84,474 metres of drilling across 893 drill holes. The exploration programme focused on adding near-mine resources within the Grand Ity complex, in addition to reconnaissance and delineation drilling on several potential satellite targets.

During Q4-2023, drilling focused on the northwest side of the Bakatouo deposit confirming the continuity of mineralisation up and down-dip. At the Mont-Ity deposit drilling identified down-dip extensions of mineralisation within skarns on the margins of the granodiorite intrusion that is beneath the current pitshell. At the Bakatouo Northeast target, drilling followed the continuity of mineralisation from the Bakatouo pit towards the other side of the Cavally river.

An exploration programme of $10.0 million is planned for FY-2024 and will focus on extending near-mine resources around Grand Ity in order to test the continuity of mineralisation at depth and in between the Walter, Bakatouo, Zia and Ity pits. Drilling will also focus on extending the West Flotouo and Flotouo Extensions deposits at depth. Reconnaissance and delineation work is expected to continue at several targets on the Ity belt, including the Gbampleu and Goleu targets.





Mana mine

An exploration programme of $7.1 million was undertaken in FY-2023, of which $0.8 million was spent in Q4-2023 consisting of 20,728 metres of drilling across 378 drill holes. The exploration programme focused on testing high grade targets within the Wona underground deposit, expanding resources at the Maoula deposit and delineating new targets at the Nyafe target, as well as delineating regional open-pit targets within a 20 kilometre radius of the Mana processing plant.

During Q4-2023, drilling at Nyafe South focused on evaluating the 500 metre long mineralised trend showing encouraging results. At the Momina target, follow-up drilling was completed on several high grade mineralised intercepts hosted within a sequence of altered and veined mafic rocks over a 250 metre long mineralised trend. Drilling successfully identified a continuation of mineralisation, which remains open along strike and at depth.

An exploration programme of $2.0 million is planned for FY-2024, focused on following up on near-mine oxide mineralisation at the Kanan and Siou Nord targets, while additional target generation continues incorporating a combination of field mapping and historic data.





Sabodala-Massawa mine

An exploration programme of $19.3 million was undertaken in FY-2023, of which $4.0 million was spent in Q4-2023 consisting of 83,960 metres of drilling across 3,655 drill holes. The exploration programme focused on expanding near-mine resources at the Niakafiri, Kerekounda Underground and Kiesta deposits, as well as testing several near mine satellite targets along the Main Transcurrent Shear Zone.

During Q4-2023, drilling focused on expanding near-mine resources at the Niakafiri West deposit delineating high-grade veins to the north. Infill drilling was undertaken at the Kerekounda East deposit to focus on resource conversion. At the Massawa North Zone deposit drilling focused on delineating high-grade mineralisation at depth, below the current pitshell to assess the underground mining prospectivity. Early-stage drilling was conducted at the Niakafiri Bridge target, in between the Niakafiri East and West deposits, and at the Fatima target.

An exploration programme of $21.0 million is planned for FY-2024, focused on expanding near-mine oxide and refractory resources across the Niakafiri, Sabodala, Kerekounda-Golouma and Massawa deposits, while testing new targets at the Kanoumba complex located south of the Massawa permit. Reconnaissance drilling will also be conducted across the recently acquired Madina and Miamaya permits located east of the Niakafiri-Sabodala complex.





Lafigue mine

An exploration programme of $1.7 million was undertaken in FY-2023, of which $0.6 million was spent in Q4-2023, focused on advanced grade control drilling as well as some early stage reconnaissance exploration at several near-mine satellite opportunities.

During Q4-2023 the exploration programme largely focused on the evaluation of the early stage WA05 and the Central Area target, where 450 metres of trenching demonstrated continuous gold mineralisation that will be followed up with drilling in 2024.

An exploration programme of $4.0 million is planned for FY-2024 to follow up on the WA05 and Central Area targets located within 5 kilometres of the Lafigue deposit and to investigate future underground potential by testing mineralisation below the current pitshell.





Tanda-Iguela Project

An exploration programme of $36.6 million was undertaken in FY-2023, of which $5.1 million was spent in Q4-2023, consisting of 167,436 metres of drilling across 709 drill holes. The exploration programme was focused on extending mineralisation and delineating resources at the Assafou deposit and identifying potential satellite deposits within 5 kilometres of the Assafou deposit.

During Q4-2023, exploration activities largely focused on finalising the 2023 drilling programme at the Assafou deposit targeting the conversion of Inferred resources to Indicated status, extension of the mineralised system at the Assafou deposit, and on delineating potential satellite targets within 5 kilometres of the Assafou deposit.

As published on 29 November 2023, resources at the Assafou deposit were significantly increased during the year, confirming Tanda-Iguela's status as the most significant gold discovery made in West Africa in the last decade. The Indicated resource now stands at 4.5Moz at 1.97 g/t Au, a 303% increase compared to the 2022 maiden Indicated resource of 1.1Moz at 2.33 g/t Au. The updated November 2023 resource is based on 183,000 metres of drilling and the Assafou deposit now spans 3.3 kilometres in length and remains open along strike and at depth. Additional drilling on identified targets has intersected mineralisation towards the northeast and the southwest, indicating that Assafou is hosted along a +20 kilometre mineralised strike length.

An exploration programme of $15.0 million is planned for FY-2024, with at least 60,000 metres of drilling planned at Tanda-Iguela, of which 25,000 metres will focus on delineating further resources at Assafou and converting resources into reserves, while 35,000 metres will focus on delineating potential satellite deposits within 5 kilometres of the Assafou deposit.





Greenfield Exploration

A greenfield exploration programme of $12.2 million (higher than the preliminary $6.0 million that was previously published due to the reallocation of corporate permit related costs to greenfields) was undertaken in FY-2023, of which $8.9 million was spent in Q4-2023 focussed on identifying early stage opportunities across the Birimian greenstone belts within West Africa and strengthening the Company's project pipeline .

In Guinea, activities focused on preliminary analysis and site visits to prospective targets along the Sabodala-Massawa Shear Zone, where it continues to the south into Guinea.

In Senegal, activities focused on identification of prospective t
EQS-Ad-hoc: Strabag SE / Key word(s): Investment

MKAO Rasperia Trading Limited, with its 24.1% stake in STRABAG SE, reportedly transferred to Iliadis JSC



27-March-2024 / 08:25 CET/CEST

Disclosure of an inside information acc.



The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



MKAO Rasperia Trading Limited, with its 24.1% stake in STRABAG SE, reportedly transferred to Iliadis JSC Acquisition of MKAO Rasperia Trading Limited by Iliadis JSC completed according to major holdings notifications

Sanctions review required

Further acquisition by Raiffeisen Bank International AG as announced still open

STRABAG SE yesterday evening received major holdings notifications from Oleg Deripaska and Iliadis JSC indicating that MKAO Rasperia Trading Limited has been transferred to Iliadis JSC, thus completing the sale in Russia that had been announced in December 2023.



According to the notifications, MKAO Rasperia Trading Limited, with its 24.1% stake in STRABAG SE, is now controlled by Iliadis JSC, with Oleg Deripaska relinquishing his previous (indirect) control.



The company has no further information regarding the transaction that has now been completed as announced in the major holdings notifications. It is therefore currently not possible to carry out a sanctions review, so that the company continues to assume that the STRABAG shares held by MKAO Rasperia Trading Limited remain frozen in accordance with the EU Sanctions Regulation.



The company is currently unable to assess whether the notified completion of the transaction in Russia will have any impact on the intended acquisition of these STRABAG SE shares by Raiffeisen Bank International AG, of which the company was also notified in December 2023. In any case, the company has not received any notification from Raiffeisen Bank International AG regarding the execution of this transaction. STRABAG SE yesterday evening received major holdings notifications from Oleg Deripaska and Iliadis JSC indicating that MKAO Rasperia Trading Limited has been transferred to Iliadis JSC, thus completing the sale in Russia that had been announced in December 2023.According to the notifications, MKAO Rasperia Trading Limited, with its 24.1% stake in STRABAG SE, is now controlled by Iliadis JSC, with Oleg Deripaska relinquishing his previous (indirect) control.The company has no further information regarding the transaction that has now been completed as announced in the major holdings notifications. It is therefore currently not possible to carry out a sanctions review, so that the company continues to assume that the STRABAG shares held by MKAO Rasperia Trading Limited remain frozen in accordance with the EU Sanctions Regulation.The company is currently unable to assess whether the notified completion of the transaction in Russia will have any impact on the intended acquisition of these STRABAG SE shares by Raiffeisen Bank International AG, of which the company was also notified in December 2023. In any case, the company has not received any notification from Raiffeisen Bank International AG regarding the execution of this transaction.



End of Inside Information

27-March-2024 CET/CEST News transmitted by EQS Group AG. www.eqs.com




ENDEAVOUR ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF INVESTIGATION AND KEY FINDINGS

London, 27 March 2024 - The Board of Directors of Endeavour Mining Plc (LSE:EDV, TSX:EDV, OTCQX:EDVMF) ("Endeavour" or the "Company" and, together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") announces that the investigation commissioned following the termination of Sebastien de Montessus as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company (the "Investigation") is now complete.

Summary of Key Outcomes

No restatement of historic financial statements and no material impact on 2023 annual financial results issued today, which are the subject of an unmodified audit opinion.

Investigation found that Mr de Montessus, acting with certain others who are not employees of the Group: diverted a US$5.9 million payment to a third-party company, and concealed his actions with repeated false representations to management, the Board and auditors; caused Endeavour to make two payments totalling US$15.0 million to the same third-party company, deliberately disguising them as advance payments to a contractor through repeated false representations to management.

No evidence of bribery, or of any payments being made to sanctioned persons or to terrorist groups.

Ultimate beneficiaries of these payments have not been discovered, despite extensive investigation.

Mr de Montessus provided implausible and untrue explanations of his conduct during the course of the Investigation.

The Investigation is now complete.

Summary of Actions Taken and Proposed

Mr de Montessus was terminated as CEO and President on 4 January.

Clawback of remuneration totalling US$29.1 million announced on 18 January.

Noting that these payments involved deliberate circumvention of our existing controls framework, the Board has nonetheless accelerated its review of internal controls in line with the new UK Corporate Governance Code, and has made immediate adjustments to certain controls relating to M&A activity.





Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan ("Venkat"), Chairman of Endeavour, commented: "The Board's actions illustrate the high importance we place on integrity, governance and transparency. We will not waver from these values. The conclusion of the Investigation enables us to put this matter behind us and focus on delivery and creating value for all our stakeholders. Under the highly experienced leadership of Ian Cockerill, we are confident we will deliver on our two high-quality development projects and move towards a period of free cash generation."

Background and Scope of Investigation

As announced on 4 January 2024, the Board had recently become aware of an irregular payment instruction issued in March 2021 for an amount of US$5.9 million owed to Endeavour in connection with the sale of the Agbaou mine. Mr de Montessus instructed Allied Gold, the purchaser of the Agbaou mine, to pay this amount to a third-party company rather than to a member of the Group, thereby settling the debt from the purchaser's perspective. The payment was concealed from the Company by Mr de Montessus and he made repeated and deliberate false representations to management, the Board and the Company's auditor that this amount remained owing from the purchaser. As a result, a receivable representing this amount was maintained on the Group's balance sheet until Q3 2023, when it was written off based on further deliberate false representations by Mr de Montessus.

When challenged about these facts in an interview on 4 January 2024, Mr de Montessus admitted to issuing the irregular payment instruction, to concealing the fact of the payment to the third-party company, and to knowingly misrepresenting the receivable as outstanding over a period of more than two years. As a result of his serious misconduct, the Board terminated Mr de Montessus as CEO on 4 January 2024 and the Remuneration Committee of the Board determined to claw back remuneration totalling $29.1 million as announced on 18 January 2024.

The Board instructed its external advisers, Linklaters LLP and Ernst & Young LLP, to investigate the US$5.9 million payment to determine the beneficiaries of the diverted funds. The Investigation also uncovered evidence of two further payments, with a total value of US$15.0 million, to the same third-party recipient as the US$5.9 million payment. The scope of the Investigation also included the circumstances of these payments.

In order to provide additional comfort in relation to the opening balance sheet position for the 2023 calendar year, the Investigation also examined receivables written off by the Group on 31 December 2022 to ascertain whether any of them had in fact been settled by way of payment to a third party, in a similar manner to the US$5.9 million payment.

The external advisors conducting the Investigation were authorised by the Board to access all relevant documents, records and information of the Company and to conduct interviews with any individual deemed appropriate.

Prior to the conclusion of the investigation work, Mr de Montessus was interviewed for a second time in late February.

Overview of Investigation Findings

The Investigation identified evidence that Mr de Montessus, acting with certain others who are not (and were not at any time) employees of the Group:

diverted a consideration payment with a value of US$5.9 million, relating to the disposal of the Agbaou mine, to a third-party company in March 2021, and concealed this payment by subsequently making false representations to management, the Board and the Group's auditors over a period of more than two years that the receivable was still outstanding; and

had previously, in August and November 2020, caused Endeavour to make two payments totalling US$15.0 million to the same third-party company as the US$5.9 million payment, by deliberately disguising the US$15.0 million as advance payments to a contractor through repeated false representations to management, causing an aggregate loss of that amount to Endeavour and/or the contractor.

Despite extensive efforts, the Investigation was not able to establish the ultimate beneficiaries of the payments to this third-party entity. This entity was incorporated as an offshore entity in Ras al Khaimah in the UAE and was liquidated on the day after the payment of the US$5.9 million in March 2021. Through searches by professional investigation agents, thorough enquiries were made in the UAE, but the investigation work was unable to ascertain the true beneficial ownership of this entity, which was concealed from the Company by Mr de Montessus and those with whom he acted.

Although Mr de Montessus attended two interviews during the Investigation, he continued to attempt to conceal his motives and actions relating to the events being investigated by providing untrue and misleading explanations for his conduct.

Since 4 January 2024, Mr de Montessus has publicly stated that the US$5.9 million payment which he deliberately diverted in March 2021 was used to pay for security equipment to protect the Group's partners and employees in a conflict zone. However, based on the information given by Mr de Montessus in interviews and the other evidence available to the Investigation (including the evidence that Mr de Montessus had caused US$15.0 million to be paid by Endeavour to the same third-party company in different circumstances in 2020), his explanation was found to be implausible and untrue.

Although the Investigation did not ascertain the ultimate beneficiaries of the payments to the third-party entity, in the course of the extensive review of documentation and interviews, no evidence was identified of bribery, or of any payments to sanctioned persons or to terrorist groups.

The Investigation did not identify evidence that any of the receivables written off on 31 December 2022 had in fact already been settled by payments to third parties.

The findings of the Investigation do not trigger any requirement to restate prior interim quarterly financial statements, annual financial statements and associated management discussion and analysis, nor do they materially affect the 2023 annual financial results.

For further information, please refer to the 2023 Annual Report at the following link.

Proposed Actions

The Investigation revealed strong evidence that Mr de Montessus abused his position as CEO, actively misleading both the Board and the senior executive team through repeated and deliberate false representations and concealment of information over a sustained period. His termination as CEO was therefore the most important step in protecting the Group from further conduct of this nature.

Whilst the circumstances clearly indicated deliberate overriding of controls, active concealment and misrepresentation by the former CEO, the Company is evaluating its overall control environment, including the impact of "tone at the top". In the interim, the Company has added further mechanisms, such as additional dual controls in committing the Company within the context of M&A and subsequent renegotiations, so that the risk of such events is further minimised in the future. The Audit Committee of the Board has determined that there are no material weaknesses in the Group's Internal Controls over Financial Reporting or Disclosure Controls & Procedures.

The Board has reserved its position regarding the possibility of pursuing Mr de Montessus for recovery of amounts lost by the Group as a result of his actions.

This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) no 596/2014 (MAR) as it forms part of UK Domestic Law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Jack Garman

Vice President, Investor Relations

+44 203 011 2723

investor@endeavourmining.com Brunswick Group LLP in London

Carole Cable, Partner

+44 7974 982 458

ccable@brunswickgroup.com

ABOUT ENDEAVOUR MINING PLC

Endeavour Mining is one of the world's senior gold producers and the largest in West Africa, with operating assets across Senegal, Cote d'Ivoire and Burkina Faso and a strong portfolio of advanced development projects and exploration assets in the highly prospective Birimian Greenstone Belt across West Africa.

A member of the World Gold Council, Endeavour is committed to the principles of responsible mining and delivering sustainable value to its employees, stakeholders and the communities where it operates. Endeavour is listed on the London and Toronto Stock Exchanges, under the symbol EDV.

For more information, please visit www.endeavourmining.com.

Neither Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" including but not limited to, statements with respect to Endeavour's plans for further exploration of the Tanda-Iguela property, the extent and timing of Endeavour's drilling campaign, the timing of the updated mineral resource estimate, the estimation of mineral resources, and the success of exploration activities. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "expects", "expected", "budgeted", "forecasts", and "anticipates". 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 international operations; risks related to general economic conditions and credit availability, actual results of current exploration activities, unanticipated reclamation expenses; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; fluctuations in prices of metals including gold; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, increases in market prices of mining consumables, possible variations in ore reserves, grade or recovery rates; 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; delays in the completion of development or construction activities, changes in national and local government regulation of mining operations, tax rules and regulations, and political and economic developments in countries in which Endeavour operates. Although Endeavour 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. Please refer to Endeavour's most recent Annual Information Form filed under its profile at www.sedar.com for further information respecting the risks affecting Endeavour and its business.

Attachment
Cremer Erzkontor North America Will Act as Sales Agent for Metspar Production from Ares Fluorspar Mine in Utah

Vancouver - 27th March 2024 - Ares Strategic Mining Inc. ("Ares" or the "Company") (CNSX:ARS) (OTC:ARSMF) (FRA:N8I1), announced the signing of an MOU between Cremer Erzkontor Inc. (Cremer) and the Company.

Under the MOU, the two firms will negotiate binding definitive agreements for the following:

Cremer Erzkontor will become ARES's agent for the sale and worldwide distribution of Fluorspar produced at the Company's Lost Sheep Mine in Utah.

Under a take or pay sales agreement, Cremer will be responsible for selling all the Company's expected 50,000 tons per year production of Metspar, for the next 5 years, with the option of renewal at the end of that period.

Cremer Erzkontor will earn a commission on all sales.

After suitable due diligence, CremerErzkontor will advance US$2,000,000 under a forward sale agreement, to enable the company to meet its working capital and investment needs.

Cremer Erzkontor also has the right of first refusal for any additional fluorspar products such as acidspar and any production from other mines ARES may acquire.



Click Image To View Full Size

From Left to Right: James Walker (Ares' CEO), Niklas Luedemann (Cremer Erzkontor's Head of North America Region), Roberto Wurst (Executive Director at Cremer Erzkontor GmbH & Co. KG), Chris Edkins (Cremer Erzkontor's Managing Director of North America),

Niklas Luedemann, Cremer Erzkontor's Head of Region North America said: "Having a US source for quality fluorspar is a gigantic step in securing the demand of the North American market. Under the agreement we will shorten lead times and eliminate many of the uncertainties that come along with importing material.

We are happy to partner up with an experienced company like ARES to move on to the next steps of this project."

James Walker, CEO of the Company said: "This agreement is a key milestone as we advance towards our fluorspar mining operation. Having a buyer for all the product produced from our fully permitted mine further derisks the project and provides the market reassurance that the Company has identified the correct strategy to achieve success. We have a strategic partner with decades of global experience selling commodities and raw materials, able to lend Ares its seasoned market expertise. Over the last few years traditional sources of fluorspar, such as those from China, have shifted from being net exporters to net importers, compounding the domestic difficulty to source the necessary fluorspar to facilitate U.S. industry. Ares will be the only fluorspar mine in the United States able to supply some of this growing domestic demand as we build a successful venture with our new partners."

The Spor Mountain Fluorspar Mine is a fully permitted past producer. Fluorspar mining is expected to start in 2024. Sales of metspar will commence soon after.

About Cremer Erzkontor

Cremer Erzkontor GmbH & Co. KG was established in 1915 in the Hanseatic City of Lubeck in Germany. Originally the business focused on trading iron ore from Sweden. From the 1960s onwards the focus shifted increasingly to manganese and chrome ores. In subsequent years the product range and the company's divisions were expanded to meet changing needs, new commercial relations were established, and existing ones strengthened. The company grew in every respect and with typical Hanseatic cosmopolitanism also expanded internationally.

Today the trading portfolio of the Cremer Erzkontor Group comprises almost all natural and synthetic industrial raw materials. With our many offices located in Europe, Asia, North and South America, they supply traditional and emerging sales markets around the globe. In terms of sectors, we focus mainly on the refractory, steel, metallurgical and chemical industries.

Since 2014, Cremer Erzkontor GmbH & Co. KG has been under ownership of Peter Cremer Holding GmbH & Co. KG. This traditional business is based in Hamburg and has operations worldwide: it specializes in the international trading, processing, and refining of agricultural and industrial commodities.

For Further Information on Cremer Erzkontor North America, contact:

Niklas Luedemann

Head of Region - North America

Cremer Erzkontor N. A. Inc.

2055 Reading Road, Suite 280, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

M +1 513 620 1492

nluedemann@erzkontor.com

www.erzkontor.com



Chris Edkins

Managing Director - North America

Cremer Erzkontor N. A. Inc.

2055 Reading Road, Suite 280, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

M +1 513 507 4022

cedkins@erzkontor-na.com

www.erzkontor.com

About the Spor Mountain Fluorspar Project - Delta, Utah

100% owned - 5,982 acres - 299 Claims.

Located in the Spor Mountain area, Juab County, Utah, approximately 214 km south-west of Salt Lake City.

Fully Permitted - including mining permits.

NI 43-101 Technical Report identified extensive high-grade fluorspar with low levels of impurities.

Mining plan approved by BLM1

First approved by Rex Rowley - Area Manager, Bureau of Land Management - 24th August 1992.

1 Renewed by Mike Gates - Minerals Program Manager, Bureau of Land Management - 12th December 2016.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF

Ares Strategic Mining Inc.

James Walker

Chief Executive Officer and President

For further information, please contact James Walker by email at jwalker@aresmining.com

DISCLOSURE AND FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

Companies typically rely on comprehensive feasibility reports on mineral reserve estimates to reduce the risks and uncertainties associated with a production decision. Historically, situations where the issuer decides to put a mineral project into production without first establishing mineral reserves supported by a technical report and completing a feasibility study have a higher risk of economic or technical failure, though some industrial mineral ventures are relatively simple operations with low levels of investment and risk, where the operating entity has determined that a formal prefeasibility or feasibility study in conformance with NI 43-101 and 43-101 CP is not required for a production decision. Based on historical engineering work, geological reports, historical production data and current engineering work completed or in the process by Ares, the Company intends to move forward with the development of its Utah asset.

Certain information in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects" and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve 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 expectations include the failure to satisfy the conditions of the relevant securities exchange(s) and other risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulations. 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. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise such information, except as required by applicable law.

1

Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
MONTREAL, March 27, 2024 - Falco Resources Ltd. (TSX.V: FPC) ("Falco" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce the receipt of confirmation of the admissibility of its Environmental Impact Assessment ("EIA") for the Horne 5 Project located in Rouyn-Noranda (the "Admissibility") from the Ministry of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks ("MEFCCWP").

Since the initial EIA filing in 2018, Falco has completed extensive field work and studies, in addition to providing the documentation in order to respond to questions and requests for information raised by the MEFCCWP. Driven by ESG principles, the EIA was conducted by a multidisciplinary team comprised of Falco's employees, experts and partners, and highlights the Horne 5 Project's benefits and impacts on its physical, biological and human environments. The EIA includes various measures to avoid, mitigate or compensate for these impacts, and to enhance the project's overall benefits, in a strong corporate governance environment. The EIA and all related documentation are publicly available on the Environmental Assessment Register of the MEFCCWP.

Luc Lessard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Falco noted: "In addition to the recent conclusion of the Operating License and Indemnity Agreement with Glencore Canada Corporation on January 23, 2024, the Horne 5 Project's EIA Admissibility from the MEFCCWP constitutes another significant milestone in advancing closer to the development and realization of the Horne 5 Project. Falco's team has been working extremely hard on the environmental permitting process, and the EIA Admissibility provides the path forward for the advancement of the Project. Although important steps remain, we strongly believe in the Horne 5 Project as a green and world-class polymetallic project that will benefit the surrounding communities. We would like to thank everyone involved at the MEFCCWP for their work and continued assistance throughout this process. Falco would also like to thank the communities of Rouyn-Noranda for their engaged and active participation and continuous support."

Public Hearing Process

The EIA Admissibility allows Falco to progress towards the public hearing process to be hosted by the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement ("BAPE") following the issuance by the MEFCCWP of a BAPE mandate to conduct such public hearing process, which notably involves a 45-day public information period, beginning April 24, 2024, in addition to a 4-month public hearing process. Falco's stakeholders will be invited to this public information period which will allow them to meet Falco's team, ask questions and obtain information on the Horne 5 Project. For more information, please refer to the following MEFCCWP link: https://www.ree.environnement.gouv.qc.ca/index.asp

Since 2019, Falco has been interacting and working with its host milieu and stakeholders, including its Consultation Committee. The comments, questions and ideas collected during these discussions have helped Falco gain a better understanding of the challenges and concerns of our stakeholders in order to develop a proposal for the Horne 5 Project that fosters the harmonious cohabitation of all stakeholders in the region with this mining project of a new generation.

Helene Cartier, Vice President, Environment, Sustainable Development and Community Relations added: "We are extremely grateful to our stakeholders and host communities, who participate in our consultation activities and initiatives, allowing us to develop a great project for the Rouyn-Noranda region. We remain committed to continuing to develop a collaborative project and making it a source of pride for our communities. Our team is ready and proud to initiate the BAPE process."

About Falco

Falco Resources Ltd. is one of the largest mineral claim holders in the Province of Quebec, with extensive land holdings in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. Falco owns approximately 67,000 hectares of land in the Noranda Mining Camp, which represents 67% of the entire camp and includes 13 former gold and base metal mine sites. Falco's principal asset is the Horne 5 Project located under the former Horne mine that was operated by Noranda from 1927 to 1976 and produced 11.6 million ounces of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper. Osisko Development Corp. is Falco's largest shareholder owning a 17.3% interest in the Corporation.

For further information, please contact:

Luc Lessard

President and Chief Executive Officer

514 261-3336

info@falcores.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 Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws, in particular Falco's ability to complete the BAPE, to obtain receipt of permits and approvals required to develop the Horne 5 Project and the ability of Falco to efficiently develop and operate the Horne 5 Project based on the terms of the Operating License and Indemnity Agreement concluded with Glencore Canada Corporation ("OLIA"). These statements are based on information currently available to the Corporation and the Corporation provides no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. The occurrence of such events or the realization of such statements is subject to a number of risk factors, including, without limitation, the ability of Falco to provide the financial assurance guarantees required by the OLIA and the exercise by Glencore Canada of rights under the OLIA which could affect the development and operation of the Horne 5 Project, together with the other risk factors identified in Falco's Annual Information Form and other continuous disclosure documents available at www.sedarplus.com. Although Falco believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, Falco disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
TORONTO, March 27, 2024 - Orford Mining Corp. (TSXV: ORM) ("Orford" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that at its special shareholder meeting held today (the "Meeting"), Orford obtained the requisite shareholder approval of its previously announced proposed plan of arrangement pursuant to which Alamos Gold Inc. (TSX: AGI, NYSE: AGI) ("Alamos") will acquire all of the outstanding common shares of Orford ("Orford Shares") not already owned by Alamos (the "Arrangement"). For further details of the Arrangement, please refer to the Company's press releases dated January 15, 2024 and March 20, 2024, and the management information circular of the Company dated February 23, 2024, in respect of the Meeting, each available on SEDAR+ under Orford's profile at www.sedarplus.com.

Completion of the Arrangement is subject to the receipt of the final order of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List) (the "Court"), which is expected to be sought on April 2, 2024. In addition, certain closing conditions customary for transactions of this nature are required to be satisfied in order for the Arrangement to occur. Provided the approval of the Court is granted and all other closing conditions are satisfied or waived, the Company expects the Arrangement to be completed on April 3, 2024, at which time the Company will apply to have its common shares delisted from the TSX Venture Exchange and cease to be a reporting issuer.

Additionally, Orford shareholders approved the entry by Orford into a non-convertible multi-draw credit facility or loan, applicable if the Arrangement does not close by April 15, 2024 whereby Alamos may provide to Orford an amount up to C$2 million, in the aggregate for the purpose of funding Orford's normal course business activities.

About Orford Mining

Orford Mining is a gold and critical mineral explorer focused on highly prospective and underexplored areas of Northern Quebec. Orford's principal assets are the Qiqavik, West Raglan and lithium exploration projects comprising a land package totaling over 168,336 hectares in the Cape Smith Belt of Northern Quebec. The Qiqavik Project hosts several new high-grade gold discoveries along a mineralized trend in excess of 40 km. The West Raglan Project hosts a number of high-grade Raglan-style nickel/copper/platinum group metal discoveries along a 55 km mineralized trend. In early 2023 Orford acquired large claim blocks targeting Lithium in the Nunavik Region. These Lithium claim blocks have been carefully selected as having promising lithium potential after an exhaustive compilation of available data. The first field season of exploration on the lithium focused properties returned positive results. Orford also has four property positions in the Joutel region of the Abitibi District of Northern Quebec, which hosts historical deposits such as the Eagle/Telbel, Joutel Copper, Poirier Copper, and Vezza deposits. Orford continually seeks new gold exploration opportunities in North America. Orford's common shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol ORM. This information from neighbouring properties is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization on Orford Mining's properties.

To view further details about Orford's exploration projects please visit Orford's website, www.orfordmining.com.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to: the completion of the Transaction and the Arrangement as proposed to be effected pursuant to the Agreement; the ability of the parties to satisfy the conditions to closing of the Arrangement; the anticipated timing of the completion of the Arrangement, and statements relating to Orford's liquidity and capital resources and potential of one or more of Orford's mineral exploration properties.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Orford to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, obtaining required court and regulatory approvals, exercise of any termination rights under the Agreement, meeting other conditions in the Agreement, material adverse effects on the business, properties and assets of Orford, and whether any superior proposal will be made. completion of the Transaction, and, in respect of statements concerning Orford's liquidity, capital resources and potential of Orford's mineral exploration properties, future prices and the supply of metals; the results of drilling; inability to raise the money necessary to incur the expenditures required to retain and advance the properties; environmental liabilities (known and unknown); general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; political instability, terrorism, insurrection or war; or delays in obtaining governmental approvals, failure to obtain regulatory or shareholder approvals. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, refer to Orford's filings with Canadian securities regulators available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

Although Orford has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward- looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and Orford 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 applicable securities laws.

SOURCE Orford Mining Corp.
This News Release is not for distribution to the United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. Securities Laws.

March 27, 2024 / TheNewswire: Vancouver, B.C.: VR Resources Ltd. (TSX.V: VRR; FSE: 5VR; OTCQB: VRRCF), (the "Company, or "VR"), is pleased to announce it has Closed the previously announced, $900,000 financing (the "Financing"), and plans are now underway to mobilize the drill program at its New Boston porphyry copper-moly system in Nevada.

The terms of the Financing are unchanged from those announced on March 22nd in NR-24-05. The Company has issued 5,982,665 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.15 per Unit for gross proceeds of $897,400. Each Unit consists of one common share ("Common Share") of the Company, and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole Common Share purchase warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one additional Common Share at an exercise price of $0.20 per Common Share until September 27, 2025.

The Company paid cash fees totaling $30,999 in connection with certain placements into the Financing.

The securities that were issued under the Financing are subject to a statutory four month and one day hold period expiring on July 28, 2024.

An Insider of the Company participated in the Financing for an aggregate amount of 333,333 units. Such participation is considered a related party transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). In completing such transaction, VR relied on the applicable exemptions from the valuation requirement and minority security holder approval requirements available under Sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, on the basis that the participation in the Financing by the Insider did not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

Use of Proceeds Going Forward

VR will use the net proceeds of the Financing for its mineral exploration business, and more specifically towards the pending drill program planned for the polymetallic copper-moly-silver porphyry-skarn system on its New Boston property located in west-central Nevada.

The securities have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the "United States" or to "U.S. persons" (as such terms are defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) without registration under the U.S. Securities Act and all applicable state securities laws or compliance with an exemption from such registration. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About VR Resources

VR is an established junior exploration company based in Vancouver (TSX.V: VRR; Frankfurt: 5VR; OTCQB: VRRCF). VR evaluates, explores and advances large-scale, blue-sky opportunities in copper, gold and critical metals in Nevada, USA, and Ontario, Canada. The Company has also made Canada's newest diamond discovery in northern Ontario, and controls a new field of kimberlite targets around it. VR applies modern exploration technologies and leverages in-house experience and expertise in greenfields exploration to large-footprint mineral systems in underexplored areas/districts. The foundation of VR is the proven track record of its Board in early-stage exploration, discovery and M&A. The Company is well-financed for its mineral exploration and corporate obligations. VR owns its properties outright and evaluates new opportunities on an ongoing basis, whether by staking or acquisition.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

"Michael H. Gunning"

_____________________________

Dr. Michael H. Gunning, PhD, PGeo

President & CEO

For general information please use the following:

Website: www.vrr.ca

Email: info@vrr.ca

Phone: (778) 731-9292

Contact: Mike Gunning; e-mail: mgunning@vrr.ca

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, and similar expressions or are those which, by their nature, refer to future events. Forward-looking statements in this release include but are not limited to: the anticipated uses of the proceeds of the Financing; the expected timing and execution of a drill program at New Boston.

Although the Company believes that the use of such statements is reasonable, 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. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative.

The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date written above, and accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While the Company may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

All of the Company's public disclosure filings are available at www.sedar.com; readers are urged to review these materials.

---

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

Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
No two-race ultimatum for Ricciardo

Dr Helmut Marko has denied rumours a two-race ultimatum has been imposed on Daniel Ricciardo to up his game or lose his RB seat to Liam Lawson by the Miami GP.

Daniel Ricciardo, Australian GP 2024

 Red Bull

According to German specialist reports, Red Bull's top consultant Marko dismissed the rumours that had appeared in the New Zealand press, triggered by Ricciardo's struggle to keep up with Yuki Tsunoda so far in 2024.

Marko reportedly insisted that reporters may have become confused by Red Bull's plans to temporarily sideline Ricciardo at Suzuka so that Japanese junior Ayumu Iwasa can drive in the Australian's RB car in Friday practice for the Japanese GP.

However, Marko also said we have to wait and see what happens next with Ricciardo, as it is becoming clear that he is not a strong enough contender for an eventual promotion to the top Red Bull team.

Every driver sees the other's data, Marko said, "so there are no secrets. They have the same car. Everything is the same.

Daniel has proved in the past that he is a fast driver, so it is something mental. A mental problem.

Ricciardo denies that. My head is not full of nonsense or anything like that.

Critically, Ricciardo still maintains the support of the RB team, formerly known as Alpha Tauri and Toro Rosso. Technical director Jody Egginton says the 34-year-old is working hard to make the car more to his liking , and should be up to speed in the next few races .

Some believe Ricciardo's fading star is because he, like other Red Bull insiders, now understand that Sergio Perez has done enough to secure another deal for 2025 - including critical team support from his powerful Mexican sponsors.

Marko, however, insists: The decision on the lineup for next year has been postponed until the summer. But Tsunoda must improve even more if he can be considered.

As for the RB outfit, former F1 driver Christijan Albers is not sure why team owner Red Bull would not bite the bullet and simply promote the impressive reserve Liam Lawson right now.

I don't understand what the fear is about this choice. I just don't understand it, he told De Telegraaf.

Let's be honest - Lawson beat Tsunoda in those few races last year. And Tsunoda has consistently been stronger than Nyck de Vries and Daniel Ricciardo.

Albers thinks Ricciardo has lost his mojo after approaching 250 grands prix on the grid, including failed post-Red Bull stints at Renault and McLaren.

What irritates me a little bit is that he keeps laughing and doing activities other than driving, said the Dutchman. "Just focus on the racing. Only then can you start being funny again.

"As a driver you want to go into hiding until you have beaten the others, then you can start showing yourself again. With him it's the other way around. All those activities are just painful.

I just don't think it's fair, Albers insists. Lawson just needs to be given a chance, and he doesn't get one. But the whole purpose of that team is to train and promote young talent.

(GMM)
Other teams may have fired Wolff by now says Stuck

Toto Wolff's job may be on the line if he was boss at a different top team, according to F1 legend Hans-Joachim Stuck.

Toto Wolff, Abu Dhabi GP 2021

 Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.

As Mercedes' hopes for a more competitive car for 2024 fade after three races of the new season, Wolff admitted in Melbourne that questions about his future are fair .

I look at myself in the mirror every single day about everything I do so it is a fair question, he said. But that is not what I feel that I should do at the moment.

But according to Stuck, an F1 driver of the 70s and two-time Le Mans winner in the subsequent decade, if Wolff was in charge at Red Bull or Ferrari, he may have been sacked by now.

Mercedes is again simply not at the level of Red Bull and Ferrari, the 73-year-old German told Eurosport.

It's probably an advantage for him that he's a co-owner, Stuck added, referring to Wolff's equal one-third ownership of the team alongside Mercedes-Benz and Ineos.

If it was a pure Mercedes team, I'm not sure he wouldn't have been replaced already.

But that's not the only job at Mercedes that should arguably be on the line, Stuck insists.

To put it bluntly, the chief designer should be replaced, he said. The idea generators in development simply lack the right approach.

Wolff will not be at the forthcoming Japanese GP, but he has often skipped some of the most distant overseas races in recent years.

Wolff has been very forthright in his assessment of Mercedes' current performance issues, and told Kronen Zeitung newspaper that he may need a change of tack going forwards.

We Austrians wear our hearts on our sleeves, he said, and say things very directly. So I have to adapt the way I communicate so as not to create more pressure.

(GMM)
Porsche delays Le Mans announcement after Vettel test

Porsche has delayed a scheduled announcement about its full Le Mans driver lineup this year, ramping up rumours of Sebastian Vettel's return to top motorsport.

Sebastian Vettel, Singapore GP 2022

 Aston Martin Racing

Last weekend, the Volkswagen-owned German marque announced that the retired quadruple world champion was returning to the cockpit for a full test this week at Spain's Aragon circuit in the Le Mans-ready Porsche 963 hypercar.

The 36-year-old said he will then see what happens next . On Tuesday, he did a full 118 laps, and afterwards declared that the outing had been definitely fun .

I know many drivers who are active in the WEC and Le Mans, said the former Formula 1 driver. At some point, my curiosity was so great that I had the idea of trying it out myself.

Porsche Penske Motorsport managing director Jonathan Diuguid said: "Having Sebastian here is a unique opportunity for the team. He is a four time Formula 1 world champion.

We are happy to have him here.

Porsche's full driver lineup for Le Mans is already set for the regular two cars, but the manufacturer will field a third works car at Le Mans in June.

German magazine Motorsport Aktuell claims Vettel was on the pace of the regular works drivers at his initial test, while Auto Motor und Sport adds that Porsche has now postponed the planned March 28 announcement of the lineup for the third Le Mans entry.

He came out of the car with a smile, reveals Diuguid, which is all good.

(GMM)
Spanish FIA official slams Alonso brake test penalty

One of the highest ranking Spanish motor racing officials has slammed the highly controversial penalty levied against Fernando Alonso in Melbourne.

Fernando Alonso, Australian GP 2024

 Aston Martin Racing

Some think George Russell crashed heavily in the closing moments of the Australian GP because he was 'brake-tested' by Alonso - a highly dangerous manoeuvre.

Others, though, slammed the FIA stewards, including former F1 driver Johnny Herbert, who has had several arguments with two-time champion Alonso in the past.

That Herbert decides something that harms Alonso seems somewhat reprehensible to me, Joaquin Verdegay, vice president of Spain's motor racing federation, the RFEdA, told Soy Motor.

It's well known that their personal relationship is not good.

In a rare move, Aston Martin team boss Mike Krack issued a media statement on Tuesday, declaring that Alonso's penalty when there was no contact with the following car was a bitter pill to swallow .

We made our best case but without new evidence we are unable to request a right of review, he added.

Verdegay goes further, alleging that apparently identical incidents in Formula 1 are often given vastly unfairly different treatment.

Either one penalty is exaggeratedly soft or another is exaggeratedly harsh, because the same event, logically, should be sanctioned with the same penalty, he said.

Personally, I don't like the sanction imposed on Fernando at all. It seems unfair and disproportionate to me. It makes me wonder where the limit is. Losing 1 percent of speed is ok but 2 percent is excessive?

Verdegay is also a former and occasional F1 steward, and he says he witnessed the worst brake test ever done involving Ralf Schumacher and Jacques Villeneuve at Melbourne, 2001.

It ended in the worst possible way, with an official dead as a result of a tyre impact. A brake test can cause people to die and what happened with Alonso was not a brake test, he insisted.

(GMM)
FILE - Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, speaks during a news conference outside the Capitol, Dec. 13, 2023, in Washington. Mariam Zuhaib/AP Media waits outside federal court Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP Hunter Biden, left, son of President Joe Biden, arrives with attorney Abbe Lowell at the O'Neill House Office Building for a closed-door deposition in a Republican-led investigation into the Biden family, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. Lawmakers from the House Oversight and Accountability Committee and the House Judiciary Committee are conducting the inquiry. J. Scott Applewhite/AP Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, with attorney Abbe Lowell, left, leaves after a closed-door deposition in the Republican-led investigation into the Biden family, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. J. Scott Applewhite/AP Hunter Biden departs after a closed door private deposition with House committees leading the President Biden impeachment inquiry, on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, in Washington. Alex Brandon/AP Hunter Biden, left, son of President Joe Biden, arrives with attorney Abbe Lowell at the O'Neill House Office Building for a closed-door deposition in a Republican-led investigation into the Biden family, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. Lawmakers from the House Oversight and Accountability Committee and the House Judiciary Committee are conducting the inquiry. J. Scott Applewhite/AP The exterior of the federal courthouse is seen Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP The exterior of the federal courthouse is seen Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP The exterior of the federal courthouse is seen Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP The exterior of the federal courthouse is seen Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Los Angeles. Attorneys for Hunter Biden are expected in court Wednesday in Los Angeles, where he is accused in what prosecutors call a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle. President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. Eric Thayer/AP

LOS ANGELES (AP)  Attorneys for Hunter Biden asked a judge Wednesday to toss out the tax case accusing him of a four-year scheme to avoid paying $1.4 million in taxes while living an extravagant lifestyle.

President Joe Biden's son has pleaded not guilty to the nine felony and misdemeanor tax offenses. His attorneys argued the prosecution is politically motivated, was tainted by leaks from IRS agents who claimed publicly the case was mishandled and includes some allegations from before he moved to California.

Prosecutors framed the claims as far-fetched during the three-hour hearing. Prosecutor Leo Wise scoffed at the idea that the case was tainted by the IRS agents who I couldnt have picked out of a lineup."

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Defense attorney Abbe Lowell, on the other hand, maintained the case was hopelessly contaminated by partisan politics, calling it the least ordinary prosecution a person could imagine.

U.S. District Judge Mark C. Scarsi appeared to be skeptical, telling Lowell the hard evidence for some of his claims was lacking. You cite to a lot of things on the internet," he said.

Scarsi said he would likely rule on motions to dismiss by April 17.

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Hunter Biden has also been charged in Delaware with lying on a federal form to buy a gun in 2018 by saying he wasnt using or addicted to illegal drugs, even though he has acknowledged being addicted to crack cocaine at the time. He has pleaded not guilty in that case, which also accuses him of possessing the gun illegally.

Both cases are overseen by special counsel David Weiss and now have tentative trials scheduled for June, though defense attorneys are also trying to get the Delaware gun charges tossed out.

The two sets of charges come from a yearslong federal investigation that had been expected to wrap up over the summer with a plea deal in which Hunter Biden would have gotten two years of probation after pleading guilty to misdemeanor tax charges. The president's son, who has since repaid the back taxes with a loan, also would have avoided prosecution on the gun charge if he stayed out of trouble.

Defense attorneys argue that immunity provisions in the deal were signed by a prosecutor and are still in effect, though prosecutors disagree.

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But the deal that could have spared Hunter Biden the spectacle of a criminal trial during the 2024 presidential campaign unraveled after a federal judge in Delaware began to question it. Now, the tax and gun cases are moving ahead as part of an unprecedented confluence of political and legal drama: As the November election draws closer, the Justice Department is actively prosecuting both the Democratic presidents son and the presumptive Republican nominee, Donald Trump.

Hunter Bidens original proposed plea deal with prosecutors had been pilloried as a sweetheart deal by Republicans, including Trump. The former president is facing his own criminal problems  91 charges across four cases, including that he plotted to overturn the results of the 2020 election, which he lost to Joe Biden.

Hunter Bidens criminal proceedings are also happening in parallel to so-far unsuccessful efforts by congressional Republicans to link his business dealings to his father. Republicans are pursuing an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, claiming he was engaged in an influence-peddling scheme with his son. No evidence has emerged to prove that Joe Biden, as president or previously as vice president, abused his role or accepted bribes, though questions have arisen about the ethics surrounding the Biden familys international business dealings.

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In launching their Biden impeachment inquiry last year, the House Republicans relied in large part on unverified claims from an FBI informant released by Senate Republicans suggesting that payments totaling $10 million from Ukrainian energy company Burisma to the Bidens were discussed. The now-former FBI informant, Alexander Smirnov, was arrested last month in a case also overseen by Weiss. He has pleaded not guilty to charges that he fabricated the bribery allegations. His attorney attended Wednesdays hearing, though he did not speak in the courtroom.
This article originally appeared in Eating New York, a weekly newsletter for subscribers featuring food news and advice straight from our critics mouths. Sign up here. Salvatore Carlino inside Lucia Alimentari. Photo: Matthew Gordon

In 2017, Salvatore Carlino was living in Berlin, making techno, and running his own label, E-Missions. Hed grown up in Manhattan Beach, east of Coney Island, and was raised in the family pizzeria, Papa Leones, in nearby Sheepshead Bay. For a while, hed thought hed take it over and simply keep it running  another 40 years  but when his parents decided to retire, he took the leap across the Atlantic. There, a tight budget brought him back into cooking. Typical starving-artist shit, he says. When the pandemic hit, he had to leave Europe with a bunch of questions about what was next: Musics not making me a living, its not going to make me a living, and this industry that I was just starting to make a little bit of headway in just shut down overnight.

Home in New York, he set up a pizza oven in his mom and dads backyard, making pizza for friends and neighbors before he started selling it out of his apartment, pop-up style. For a while, he was baking and making pizza religiously every other day, as he puts it. He started looking around for a permanent space in 2021. There was one caveat though: He couldnt imagine opening something up in Southern Brooklyn. I certainly never thought I would be back in Sheepshead Bay, he says, because the ego in me was like, If Im going to do it, everybodys got to fucking see it  and no ones going to see it over here.

But he didnt have many other options: When hed apply for leases, hed be turned down and told he didnt have the business experience or  more importantly  the income. When his friends found a space on Avenue X, he adjusted his stance. I never thought it would go the way it did, and it did, and that was it. It was a perfect storm, he says.

In January, 2022, he opened Lucia of Avenue X on the same block as a hair salon and a store called Amazing Discount. Its a small corner space with a handful of seats, and the menu, to start, was limited to garlic knots and pizza. Carlino has broadened it a good bit since, with additions like chicken and eggplant Parmesans, weekend-only dry-aged burgers, calzones, and a bit of 90s nostalgia via tartufo. His fears that nobody would see him in Sheepshead Bay turned out to be unfounded. A few weeks after it opened, my colleague Tammie Teclemariam described the blistered, bubbly crust as some of the best shed ever had, and eventually called it 2022s restaurant most likely to become an institution. New York Times critic Pete Wells followed, slapping a NYT Critics Pick on the shop.

Late last year, Carlino opened the second Lucia Pizza at the well-trafficked corner of West Broadway and Canal Street. The new shop is smaller with a more limited menu (no clam pie), but Carolinos ambitions in Manhattan are bigger. This week hell open Lucia Alimentari, an 18-seat foray into something a little fancier.

There were a lot of thoughts of, Are we going a little too nuts? Should we just white box it, add tables for the pizzeria? he says. He worried about disappointing people, but about two months ago he and his business partner in Soho, Richie Quarto, decided they had to go for the big swing. I fucking hate opening, he says. Im just going to keep my fucking head pinned to this plate and just keep going, keep working.

Though the space shares a pass-through window with the pizzeria, the look is less slice shop, more social club, with a Calacatta Rosa marble bar at its center. The green of the subway tile on one wall matches the banquets, and the wood is all walnut, from the tables to the rafters. From 7 a.m to 4 p.m., itll operate as a cafe, and there are products like Partanna olive oil, Rummo pasta, and Agostina Recca anchovies stocked on shelves. Standing outside, Carlino nods to a couple customers sitting against the pizzerias windows while eating their slices. I love that, he says. But were going to let people bring their slices over here, too.

Photo: Matthew Gordon

Its a small space, so to make it work as both cafe and restaurant, Carlino had a couple wall-mounted Murphy tables installed. Dough production will stop at night, so they can make full use of the kitchen for the Alimentari. Some ideas are still being hashed out. Hes thinking of getting a meat slicer, so he can serve ribboned Colonnata lard. The menu will be limited, a bit, by practical concerns. (The only oven they have is an electric PizzaMaster.) There will be 12-inch personal pizzas like the Poblano Funghi (roasted poblano crema, braised mushrooms), and the Backyard (fresh mozzarella, shredded mozzarella, pecorino, red sauce, olive oil). Oysters will be shucked on the weekends, and hell have a octopus carpaccio with Calabrian chile and yuzu, a couple salads, and some snacks. There could be something roasted down the line. Lets see how loony it could get, he says.

Carlino has help, too. Wine will be handled by John Edward Burch, a sommelier at Daniel who is helping out downtown. (Hell run an industry night on Mondays.) Carlinos cousin Calogero Taibi is coming over at least for a few weeks from Castrofilippo, the small Sicilian town where he lives, to help with the baking. Hell be making the Taibi family cannoli, which Carlino swears are the best hes ever had: The ricotta is sheeps milk. Its real deal. It comes in these beautiful vats that I can sit there with a fork and eat, he says.

Things are otherwise up in the air, but theyve talked Sicilian pistachio desserts and tarts. Along with Taibis pastries, Carlino plans to bring in different bakers for three-month stints for which, he says, theyll share in the revenues. The first is Marisa Akemi Nakamura, who has done a bunch of pop-ups with downtown favorite Shys Burgers. (Shes also cooked at spaces like Treetop and Laobra Cafe, and prior to going indie she was the lead baker at the Smile To Go.) At Lucia, shell make croissants and cookies by day and has floated ideas like a cannoli brulee for dinner.

Ive never had the chance to own anything like this, and Im going to be chef-ing it up, Carlino says. Im going to be the guy whos doing all the plates at night.
Xiaomi is expected to launch the Redmi Note 13 Turbo in China with Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset. So far we've heard only rumors, including that it might go international as Poco F6, but a few leaked images today let us put a face to the name.

Thomas Wang, General Manager of the Redmi brand, talked about the Xiaomi legacy of powerful and relatively affordable smartphones. He showcased a new device, saying it has an attractive front side and we believe the phone to be the unreleased Note 13 Turbo.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Turbo/Poco F6

The phone was seen in a short video posted on social media. We can see a flat panel, a single punch hole for the selfie camera, and a protruding power key, meaning the phone likely has an OLED display with a fingerprint scanner underneath.

The Snapdragon 8s sits between the second-gen and third-gen Snapdragon 8 chips with one prime Cortex-X4 core at 3 GHz. If the rumors are correct and the Note 13 Turbo launches with this SoC, it will be the first device from the popular midrange lineup with such a powerful platform.

Source (in Chinese)
Crowne Plaza Resort Guam has announced its first-year anniversary celebration, a testament to a year of warm hospitality and memorable experiences.

From March 25 to March 30, guests are invited to enjoy a 20% discount on dining experiences at Crowne Plazas popular restaurants and bars, including the Lobby Bar, Infinity Bar, and The Terrace Restaurant, according to a press release from the hotel. Indulge in delicious cuisines and refreshing beverages while enjoying the view of Tumon Bay.

In a gesture of appreciation to the local community, Crowne Plaza Resort Guam is also offering an exclusive rate of only $159 + tax per night for local residents.

This limited time offer is available for bookings made between March 21 and April 30, with stays valid from March 22 to June 30.

Local residents who avail of this offer will also receive a 20% discount at The Terrace Restaurant, enhancing their stay and dining experience.

Any birthday celebrant dining at The Terrace Restaurant for lunch or dinner during this week will receive a complimentary meal and a slice of cake when accompanied by a minimum of one paying guest per celebrant.

Additionally, guests who stay with the hotel can create a meaningful souvenir with a postcard making activity and end the night with a movie at the Club Lounge. As part of the festivities, guests are invited to capture fun-filled moments with Crowne Plazas anniversary backdrop at the lobby, creating lasting memories of this special occasion.

We are thrilled to commemorate our first year with our guests and the local community, according to Yuh Akima, general manager of Crowne Plaza Resort Guam. Our anniversary celebration is a reflection of our gratitude for the support weve received and our commitment to providing enjoyable experiences for all. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this milestone.

For reservations at one of the restaurants and bars, email fbreservations.cprguam@ihg.com or call (671) 646-5880. To book a room, email reservations.cprguam@ihg.com or call (671) 646-5880.
Attorney General Douglas Moylan has moved to block Gov. Lou Leon Guerreros request for the Supreme Court of Guam to rule on his withdrawal from representing 22 government agencies and requests to fast track a ruling on the matter.

Lawyers for Adelup argue the matter should proceed, and quickly.

Moylans response to filings from the governors counsels were filed under seal, according to the Supreme Court Records Section Wednesday.

But his opposition is noted in records filed by the Office of the Governor.

Moylan on Wednesday said he could not comment on why the documents were filed under seal, because they are under seal.

Hes publicly called the governors request for judgment from the islands high court an attempt to stop ongoing investigations.

Moylan late last month withdrew from representing over 20 government of Guam agencies, including the Office of the Governor, that his office has been actively investigating.

Filings from Adelup accuse Moylan of trying to evade a review by the Supreme Court.

Attorneys argue a ruling from the high court on the AGs withdrawal is proper, and satisfies the requirements for a review by the court.

The matter is of great public importance, filings stated.

The fact AG Moylans withdrawal of legal services from twenty-two Executive Branch agencies, including the Office of the Governor of Guam, constitutes a matter of great public importance is self-evident. Resolution of the questions in the Petition one way or another will substantially affect the operations of the Executive Branch, according to court documents.

Executive branch agencies, and the people they serve, simply cannot operate without clarification of AG Moylans role and obligations toward them, and because of his misplaced priorities, he cannot be counted on to conduct himself appropriately as agency counsel in the absence of an order clarifying his responsibilities, they continued.

Adelup said workarounds tha Moylan proposed have been inconsistent, and do not resolve issues at agencies that are without legal representations.

It would also cause an undue delay to allow the matter to go through the regular judicial process, filings from Adelup stated.

Litigating the issues raised in the Petition through multiple cases in the lower courts would be excessive and time-consuming, and would delay the resolution of these important issues, which would in turn result in the continued disruption to 21 agency operations, procurements, and contracts caused by AG Moylans sudden withdrawal, documents stated.

Moylans withdrawal from representing GovGuam agencies came after attempts to disqualify him from prosecuting officials previously represented by his office. A decision on alleged conflicts of interest in the matters is pending a decision in the Superior Court of Guam.

Adelup argues the review by the high court would not violate the AGs right to due process in the pending cases.

Finally, a review of the issue by the high court is appropriate, according to Adelup, because the governor seeks clarification of the AGs duties under the Organic Act.

They do not seek a review of the ongoing prosecution cases in the Superior Court which prompted the AGs withdrawal, filings stated.

Adelup also argues it is proper to expedite proceedings on the matter.

Attorneys for Adelup asked that briefs from both parties be filed within 30 days, once the Supreme Court determines it has jurisdiction in the matter.

When the governor requests the Supreme Court to rule on a matter, its supposed to be a fast track for rulings on important legal issues, documents stated.

The court has issued briefing schedules in the past that reflect the expedited nature of the proceedings.

Adelup also opposes an argument apparently lodged by Moylan that an evidentiary hearing should be held on the matter.

The filing stated Moylan has had an opportunity to file any necessary exhibits countering the governors arguments, and has not.

Before the court begins to weigh the governors request, three questions must be satisfied, according to an order from the chief justice:

Whether the issue is a matter of great public importance. Whether resolution to the question through the normal process of law would cause undue delay. Whether the subject matter is appropriate under the section of Guam law governing requests for declaratory judgment from the governor.

The governor put the following questions to the islands high court:

1. May the attorney general of Guam withdraw from legal representation of an executive branch agency, or otherwise decline to provide legal services, if the AG claims conflicts with ongoing investigations or prosecutions?

2. If the AG can withdraw from agencies being investigated or prosecuted, may affected agencies employ or contract independent attorneys to handle legal services and contract approval for the agency?

3. If the AG cant withdraw from agencies being investigated or prosecuted, must the AG implement conflict protocols, like an ethical screen or the assignment of investigations and prosecutions to a special prosecutor?

If the AG cant withdraw from agencies being investigated or prosecuted, may the AG provide legal services anyways, even if his agency has access to confidential information from the agency his office is investigating or prosecuting? If the answer to the fourth question is no, may the affected agency employ or contract independent attorneys?

Leon Guerrero asks the court to rule that:

1. The AG may not withdraw from representing agencies, or otherwise decline to provide legal services, based on assertions of a conflict with his duty as public prosecutor.

2. If the Office of the Attorney General gets a complaint against an agency official related to the officials employment, the AG must safeguard against a conflict of interest, consistent with the Guam Rules of Professional Conduct.

3. If the AG fails to put up conflict screens before launching a civil or criminal investigation, he must be disqualified from representing government agencies in any matter related to the investigation, or any prosecutions related to such matters.

4. Agencies affected by a failure to put up a conflict screen are able to employ or contract an independent attorney, to be paid for by the AG.
Plans to speed up completion of the Ukudu power plant by the end of next year, at a cost of about $5 million, got the Consolidated Commission on Utilities approval on Tuesday night.

Final approval will have to come from the Public Utilities Commission before the deal moves forward.

Contractor Guam Ukudu Power will get the sum of $5 million if it completes the 198-megawatt power plant by Sept. 15, 2025, or $4 million if the plant is running by Sept. 30, 2025.

If the latter deadline is missed, the contractor will be on the hook for $240,000 for each day that completion comes in late.

Ukudu was supposed to be online by the end of this year, but Typhoon Mawar damaged the unfinished plant and pushed completion back to January 2026 at the earliest.

The $5 million is about what it would cost for the contractor to double up on manpower and work 24/7 to finish Ukudu, Guam Power Authority General Manager John Benavente told CCU on Tuesday night.

It wont be paid up front, he said, but spread out over the 25-year term of the contract with Guam Ukudu Power.

He said the contractor had initially asked for $12 million to finish the project early, but had agreed to the lower cost after Benavente made his own calculations.

Bringing the more efficient power plant online four months early will save GPA about $18 million in fuel costs, he added.

Once the Ukudu plant comes online, lowered fuel consumption, the retirement of aging plants like Cabras 1 and 2, and other savings will help save about $135 million a year, according to the GPA general manager.

Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the revisions to the contract for the plant.

Other costs

Besides accelerating the completion date, another $8.3 million worth of additional expenses to the contract with Guam Ukudu Power for the new plant got CCU approval.

About $1.8 million will be added to the deal so that a backup line for water to cool the plant can be installed.

Another $6.6 million will be paid out for various expenses incurred by the contractor in planning for a now canceled 41-MW reserve facility that was supposed to be built in Piti.

Legal fees, survey work, and other contracting work had been completed before the project was scrapped.

GPA needed an exemption from the Legislature to move the reserve facility forward, as it was within 1,500 feet of Jose Rios Middle School.

An exemption passed in 2022, but not before costs for the project rose too high for it to be feasible, according to Benavente.

Theres no real scientific reason for that because again, the fuel that is being burned up there  is the same fuel, the diesel that the buses are using, he said.

Removing the reserve facility from the contract will save GPA $57.3 million.

Total adjustments will bring the deal with Guam Ukudu Power down from $571 million to $527 million, over a 25-year period.
A new military command responsible for forces throughout Micronesia will soon be based on Guam, Joint Region Marianas Commander Rear Adm. Gregory Huffman announced Wednesday at the Guam Chamber of Commerce meeting.

Huffman said hes tasked with starting a Joint Task Force Micronesia, the first of its kind, which will take Joint Region Marianas spot as the top military command in the region.

The new task force will largely take over responsibility for operations in the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands, he said.

The details of the new command structure are still being worked out.

The intent is to have a senior enough staff established here on Guam that, should situations arise, can step in and take that command and control and direct forces and ensure the safety and defense of Guam, Huffman told members and guests of the largest business organization on Guam.

The Pentagon on March 1 announced Huffmans promotion to a full, two-star rear admiral.

The rear admiral will remain on Guam, and a new, one-star rear admiral will come to Guam to assume command of Joint Region Marianas later this year.

Footprint in the region

The move comes as Guams role in the defense of the Pacific is increasingly recognized by the Department of Defense, and U.S. military footprint in the region is continued through the recently renegotiated Compacts of Free Association.

Just last week, Huffman met in Honolulu with U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and Palau officials. The meeting included U.S. Ambassador to Palau Joel Ehrendreich and Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr.

Among major upcoming military construction projects in Micronesia is a $400 million runway extension in the island of Yap, a new fiscal year 2025 budget for the Air Force details.

On Guam, a new 360-degree missile defense system will bring a new contingent of 700 soldiers to the island in the coming years.

The new task force also presents an opportunity to establish the foundation for how the command and control and how the military posture here on Guam is going to look for the future, Huffman said, with all of the new capabilities that are coming.

The new command will also help to manage the ongoing construction in the region, he said.

Guam alone is expected to see over $1 billion in construction projects a year, as the relocation of Marines from Okinawa proceeds through the late 2020s.

National attention

Besides the command reshuffle locally, Huffman shared that Guam will be getting more direct focus from the Pentagon moving forward

The Deputy Secretary of Defense recently designated the Undersecretary of the Navy as the single senior accountable defense official for all activities on Guam. That sounds like a lot. And it is, Huffman said.

The Navy undersecretary will be responsible for ensuring all construction projects and buildup plans are done on an effective timeline to meet any potential threats throughout the region.

A Guam Synchronization and Oversight Council will also be formed, a sort of escalator to the top floor for local military officials to engage with senior leadership.

This is an extremely senior level group of officials in the Pentagon, chaired by one of the undersecretaries of Defense and all of the undersecretaries of the services, as well as the Indo Pacific Commander (Adm. John) Aquilino, Huffman said.

Its a big change from the more bureaucratic system connecting local command and the Pentagon previously, he added, and is aimed at getting things done more rapidly in the region.

More funding, big concerns

Money for the new task force, to the tune of about $40 million, is part of an $11 billion list of unfunded priorities INDOPACOM sent to Congress.

Details on what the funds were needed for were not immediately available from JRM on Wednesday.

Del. James Moylan on Wednesday told the Pacific Daily News he continues to push for the funding, along with a number of other DoD priorities for the region which arent currently funded in the proposed fiscal 2025 budget.

The delegate said hes been working closely with INDOPACOM Commander Aquilino on the matter.

The new Joint Task Force Micronesia has also drawn some criticism from members of Congress who want to see a larger joint military task force to handle troops in the Pacific set up by INDOPACOM, The Washington Times reported late last year.

We always want more, Moylan said Wednesday, in response to concerns.

But, we had the budget that we had to work within. Im relying upon what the rear admiral is putting together and what the military personnel are looking at. Additional stuff can come later. We work with what we got for now, Moylan said. This is better than not having it at all. So I think its important, the Micronesia group that they formed together.

The United States during the 118 Congress recognized the importance of Guam, Moylan said. So thats my duty to keep that communication open.

The military population on Guam is also expected to grow from the current 26,000 to about 44,000 by 2037, JRM said.

That number includes not just active duty military personnel but also civilians working for DoD, reservists, National Guard personnel, and their dependents.
The court-appointed receiver running Ordot dump wants the Guam Waterworks Authority to pay over $2.65 million for a leak that may have increased the output of contaminated water at the toxic dumpsite.

In late 2022, a GWA leak near the dump was linked to skyrocketing costs to treat contaminated water, or leachate, flowing through the trash mound at Ordot.

The leak was fixed, and leachate flows in 2023 were cut in half.

GWA General Manager Miguel Bordallo has disputed whether GWAs leak was the sole cause of the increased leachate at the dumpsite. He has pointed to increased leachate flows going back years at the site.

Dye tests done by GWA to identify the source of water infiltration into the dump, which is capped with a membrane to keep water out, have so far been inconclusive.

But receiver Gershman, Bricnker and Bratton is now investigating whether GWA leaks may have contributed to increased leachate at the dump going back to 2018, according to this months meeting of the Guam Solid Waste Authority board.

GWA has been paid to dispose of contaminated water collected at Ordot dump since it was capped in 2016.

GBB President Harvey Gershman said they sent GWA a claim for $2.65 million last August, and it was rejected the following month.

Were going to revisit a claim with them. We have a responsibility to recover, to try to recover this money, and I think well add some other costs to that claim when we submit it, Gershman told board members.

A capped dumpsite is supposed to produce less leachate over time, not more, he said.

But leachate production has climbed over the years, GBB data showed.

A total of 7.5 million gallons of leachate came from the dump in 2016, but that amount more than doubled in 2018, to 18.4 million gallons that year.

By 2022, the dump produced more than five times the amount of leachate produced when the cap was first installed, 41.1 million gallons.

Last year, following the fixed GWA leak, the amount fell to just 16.27 million gallons of leachate.

GBB Vice President Chris Lund said the receiver is now working to get records of water production from GWA to see if theres numbers there that show a discrepancy, that theyve had this big leak and how long has it been going on?

Lund told the Solid Waste board that GWAs leak issues were well known.

Theyve always had significantly higher leakages than the normal for water systems. Its a tougher environment, they need to have the money to fix those things, he said.

But board member Minakshi Hemlani said if the leak had caused the increased leachate for years, GBB had not identified the issue previously.

Records available to the receiver showed that leachate volume had more than doubled between 2017 and 2018, she said.

I guess they realized it was a leak at some point, but I heard you saying you were looking for the cause before so I dont know if GWA is the issue, Hemlani said.

Lund told Hemlani the increase was believed to have been natural at first, as water moving through the ground at the dump adjusted its pathway following the major geological work done at the site.

Water leaks tend to get bigger and bigger, they dont get smaller, and so you see that behavior now, Gershman added.

According to GBB, heres how much leachate came out of the Ordot dump in previous years:

2016: 7.5 million gallons

2017: 8.5 million gallons

2018: 18.4 million gallons

2019: 22.2 million gallons

2020: 27.7 million gallons

2021: 28.5 million gallons

2022: 41.117 million gallons

2023: 16.27 million gallons

Lund said the dump in the first two months of 2024 is producing leachate at around the same levels as 2016 and 2017.

Solid Waste General Manager Irvin Slike told the Pacific Daily News in an interview that a ditch near the GWA water line at the dumpsite is suspected as an infiltration point for water.

Underneath it, we know, the receiver constructing Ordot took out I think 80,000 or so cubic yards of trash, and replaced it with what they called engineered fill, which is roughly like a dirty gravel. So its permeable, Slike said.

He said water is suspected to be seeping into the fill, and following the same path that the GWA water line leak sort of created.

That may be why leachate flows out of the dump change based on seasonal rainfall, something thats not supposed to happen, Slike said.

During this months board meeting, GBB engineer Steven Schilling told board members that an estimated 58 million gallons of leachate a year were produced at the dump before it was capped, and all of that leachate was discharged into the nearby Lonfit River.

If the water leak was under control, and with ongoing resiliency projects at Ordot, we anticipate there will be zero gallons discharged to the Lonfit River in 2024, Schilling said.

Ending the discharge of water into the river is one of the conditions that must be met before Solid Waste can be discharged from the court-ordered receivership which has governed operations at the dump since 2008.

GBB late last year said it was trying to do that as early as this summer.

Slike told the PDN that he believes getting out of receivership is a good thing, though not everyone in GovGuam agrees.

What I see needed to be done on board are things that you know, GSWA, can handle, Slike said.

It might cost money, but paying the receiver, and the companies hired by the receiver, cost more.

Weve told the board at the last meeting that theyre on track right now with the lawyers and financial companies that receivers hired to spend a million dollars in 2024. Were scrambling around to find a budget for that, and I really dont want to see that level of expenditure go into 2025, he said.

Solid Waste is scheduled to appear at the District Court of Guam in May for further hearings.
A New York City Police Department ambulance carrying the remains of Officer Jonathan Diller drives out from under Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in New York, late Monday, March 25, 2024. Diller was shot and killed during a traffic stop, Mayor Eric Adams said. Jeenah Moon/AP Firefighters salute as the ambulance transporting the body of New York City Police Officer Jonathan Diller exits Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in the Queens borough of New York, Monday, March 25, 2024. Diller was shot and killed Monday during a traffic stop. It marked the first slaying of an NYPD officer in two years. Jeenah Moon/AP This photo provided by the New York City Police Department shows a gun recovered at the scene of an officer-involved shooting on Monday, March 25, 2024, in New York. A New York City police officer was shot and killed Monday during a traffic stop in the Far Rockaway section of Queens, the city's mayor said. The officer and his partner were part of the NYPD Critical Response Team. (New York City Police Department via AP) AP

NEW YORK (AP)  Former President Donald Trump is planning to attend the wake for a New York City police officer who was fatally shot during a traffic stop this week, according to his campaign.

Trump, the 2024 presumptive Republican presidential nominee, is expected to be at a visitation Thursday on Long Island for Officer Jonathan Diller, the first New York City police officer killed in the line of duty in two years.

President Trump is moved by the invitation to join NYPD Officer Jonathan Dillers family and colleagues as they deal with his senseless and tragic death," said Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt.

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The Queens-born Republican has repeatedly raised the issue of crime in the Big Apple on the campaign trail and ahead of his own hush-money criminal trial in Manhattan. In a social media post Tuesday, he noted police said Diller's alleged shooter, Guy Rivera, had numerous prior arrests, declaring that he NEVER should have been let back out on the streets.

The news came Wednesday after a second suspect in the shooting, Lindy Jones, was arraigned on weapons charges.

Police said Jones, 41, was behind the wheel of an SUV, with Rivera in the passenger seat, that was illegally parked at a bus stop in the Far Rockaway neighborhood shortly before 6 p.m. Monday when Diller and his partner approached the vehicle.

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Rivera refused Diller's orders to get out of the vehicle and shot Diller under his protective vest, according to police.

He was given a lawful order numerous times to step out of the car," Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a news conference after the shooting. "He refused. And when the officers took him out of the car, rather than stepping out of the car, he shot our officer.

The 31-year-old Diller, who was married and had a 1-year-old son, was rushed to a hospital but could not be saved.

Diller's partner returned fire, hitting the gunman in the back, police said. Rivera remained hospitalized Wednesday and had not been formally charged.

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Rivera's mother, Keshia Gilyard, told the New York Daily News that he did not trust law enforcement after serving time in prison.

He might have thought they were trying to hurt him and something snapped," she said.

Jones was arrested after police obtained a search warrant and found a loaded 9 mm pistol in the glove compartment with the serial number scratched off, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said. He was arraigned in Queens on four illegal weapons charges.

Katz said in a news release her office will continue working around the clock to seek justice on behalf of Officer Dillers loved ones, his NYPD family and in honor of his selflessness and courage.

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A message seeking comment was sent to Jones' attorney, Linda Bucher.

Diller, who joined the police department three years ago, lived in Massapequa Park on Long Island with his wife, Stephanie, and their son, Ryan.

Mayor Eric Adams, a former police officer, called Diller's shooting devastating and said Tuesday, These are bad people doing bad things to good people. Its the good guys against the bad guys.

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The Department of Revenue and Taxation in Barrigada in an undated photo.
The Guam Department of Education has no list yet of priority schools for closure but will ensure that school rezoning and reassignments will be identified before the end of this school year, Education Superintendent Erik Swanson said.

I want to have this by the time we finish the school year. We want to have for sure laid out what changes would be made for next year and probably the year after, Swanson told the Pacific Daily News on Tuesday.

School closures and reassignments are a result of the decline in student enrollment, from 40,000 to 25,000.

Swanson said they are looking at the capacities of schools to determine if rezoning is possible.

For example, this school (F.B. Leon Guerrero Middle School), of course, is a middle school but you have two or three elementary schools that feed into it. Are they all at capacity or is there more room in one than there is in another? So, if we move students and then we move teachers with them, of course, that leaves a facility empty then okay thats the one were going to close, Swanson said.

Swanson said GDOE is also considering the impact of school closures on transportation and community.

But there isnt a list of priority ones to close, he said. Right now, were looking at the capacities and say, who can handle the kids? What makes sense in terms of student transportation? What makes sense in terms of community?

The next step involves meeting with mayors, along with other community leaders and parent organizations, to collectively assess the situations in schools.

The conversation with parents and mayors is going to come in and be very important because they understand the dynamics of their own community the best, said Swanson.

More than facilities

Swanson said he wanted to prioritize not only facilities but also the not as visible aspects such as curriculum instruction and student outcomes under his leadership.

I value the work that were doing on facilities but its much more than that that I want to do with curriculum instruction and student outcomes, he said.

With a decline in the number of students going to public schools, he said his goal is to address that challenge by helping people understand the importance of returning to school.

He also expressed his intention to refine and sharpen GDOEs five-year strategic plan by narrowing down its goals.

We have too many initiatives so if you have too many, your energy is diffused, he said. So, I want to do fewer things at a higher level instead of many things at a lower level.

Everything accomplished by GDOE so far, he said, has been a collaborative effort with the community and his team.

I know what Im focusing on, and well observe how it unfolds, but its a community effort, not just me. It involves my entire team, he said. And well also make some adjustments to ensure we work more effectively as a team.
Ron McNinch is a longstanding member of the Guam community and frequently gives his opinion on a wide range of topics.
Over the course of 70 years, one religious organization has amassed massive quantities of private land in Florida.

Boasting a vast portfolio, spanning 678,000 acres throughout the state, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon church, has become the largest landowner in the state, possessing nearly 2% of Floridas total land mass.

Like most religious organizations that depend on donations and contributions to thrive, each year the Mormon church collects an estimated $7 billion in contributions from its members.

While many churches invest in stocks, bonds or mutual funds to grow their financial resources, as the wealthiest religious organization in the country, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints accumulates real estate.

In addition to office towers, shopping centers and warehouses, the church particularly likes to acquire farmland, ranches and timberlands.

As one of the countrys largest real estate investors, the church owns about 1.7 million acres of land and property across the United States, valued at nearly $16 billion. In addition to Florida, the church also owns more than $100 million in property in California, Utah, Oregon and Nebraska.

Why is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints buying so much land in Florida?

According to the churchs website, the 15th president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gordon B. Hinckley, best explained the congregations motivation to buy land.

We have felt that good farms, over a long period, represent a safe investment where the assets of the Church may be preserved and enhanced, Hinckley said. While at the same time they are available as an agricultural resource to feed people should there come a time of need.

The ideals of self-sufficiency and resilience are embedded in the fabric of the churchs mission and they view their agrarian pursuits as a pathway to personal empowerment  with agriculture seen as a prime investment that reflects a commitment to fostering sustainability.

In an interview with Florida Trend in 2013, Charles Pattison, policy director at 1000 Friends of Florida, said church representatives conveyed the importance of farming and other agricultural pursuits to the Mormon philosophy of economic self-reliance.

This was philosophically something that was important to the church, Pattison said. To have a reliable source of food and fiber production going forward.

What land does the church own in Florida?

With the desire to provide for its growing membership, in 1947, Henry Moyle, a high ranking member of the church, proposed the idea of establishing a cattle ranch in Florida that would serve as an agricultural investment and a resource to feed people in times of need. A few years later he acquired the first parcels of Florida farmland that would later become Deseret Ranch.

A cattle pasture within the 295,000 acre ranch.Photo courtesy of Deseret Ranches

Today the ranch, which is located about 50 miles from Orlando, spans across Osceola, Orange and Brevard counties in central Florida. It includes citrus groves, vegetable farms and cattle pastures, encompassing approximately 295,000 acres, that in 2017, had an estimated value of around $1 billion.

Looking toward the future, The Guardian reported that the church has considered transforming a large portion of the land into a new city that could be home to as many as 500,000 people by 2080.

By establishing a sustainable food reservoir and bolstering financial reserves, agriculture has assumed a pivotal role in fortifying the church against adversities, Between 2013 and 2014, the church procured an additional 383,000 acres in Floridas Panhandle region for $562 million.

More recently, in 2023, the church purchased six warehouses encompassing more than a million square feet of space in Miami-Dade County for $174.3 million.

Worldwide, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints currently has more than 17 million members, with 6.7 million in the U.S.  and around 168,000 members in Florida.




Haiti - FLASH : Update on the situation in Haiti





Tuesday March 26, 2024, the center of Port-au-Prince was under the control of armed gangs, the shootings have stopped and the situation is evolving in "relative calm..." stores opened their doors after a night of great violence and looting, despite the state of emergency in force and the curfew...



At least 5 pharmacies and clinics near the State University Hospital were looted and burned. The Frere Nau School, on Steet du Center, was set on fire, businesses and dozens of private homes were looted and sometimes set on fire, several dozen cars were vandalized and set on fire. Heavily armed individuals vandalized the National School of Arts, all the materials were taken away.



In the provinces, towns escape the murderous and destructive fury of direct gangs but not its consequences...



Jeremie :

Everything was operating as usual, banks, schools and public institutions opened their doors. Several gas stations remained closed due to lack of fuel. On the black market prices are soaring



Les Cayes :

Everything was operating cautiously, banks and transfer houses are limiting the amount of transactions, many small traders remain closed or have ceased their activities. The fuel shortage is felt...



Saint-Marc :

Due to restocking difficulties, businesses are no longer able to meet all customer needs. Due to lack of funds, banks refuse all transactions that they consider too large. Fuel at the pumps is rare, the black market sells the precious liquid on the sidewalks at double the official price.



Jacmel :

Public and private schools, universities, banks, public markets, intermunicipal public transport were operating normally. However, several stores are almost out of stock. Supplying fuel to the few service stations still open is very difficult.



North-East :

The banks worked part-time. Schools and universities were generally functioning. Public transport and large-scale commerce are limited due to the shortage of fuel and supply difficulties with the capital...



TB/ PI/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - FLASH : Election of the President of the Transitional Council postponed sine die





Tuesday March 26, 2024, the election of the President of the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) was postponed "sine die". The representatives of the Montana agreement and Famni Lavalas propose to elect the President of the Council after the installation of the CPT, the other members want this election this week. However, slowly the trend seems to be moving towards an election this week...



Besides this item, members continued to work on a Memorandum of Understanding on the formation of the Council. However, Tuesday's working session did not make it possible to find an agreement on these two points but progressed in small steps...



This Wednesday, the designated members of the CPT are expected to publish a first official statement on the progress of their discussions.



Furthermore, note that the Rally for a National Accord (REN) has designated the Agronomist Regine Abraham as an observer without the right to vote, as its representative on the Presidential Council, to replace the resigning Dr. Rene Jean-Jumeau https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41972-haiti-politic-election-of-the-president-of-the-cpt-postponed-an-observer-resigns.html . His name has already been transmitted to CARICOM.



S/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Holy Week : Message of reflection from Lesly Conde





"Dear compatriots and friends from everywhere,

Fre m, se m ak zanmi toupatou,



At this time of the year when every Christian meditates on the life of Jesus Christ, the conditions of his death, and his triumphant resurrection, I invite you to look in a special way at the profound symbolism of these extraordinary events linked to the Christian religion. It is a time of fervent prayer and intense reflection.



The life of Jesus Christ on this earth is a perfect example of generosity and humility. In his infinite goodness, God chose this sacrifice in order to put eternal life within reach of those of us who have enough faith and perseverance to follow in the footsteps of his son. God loved us so much that he agreed to submit his son Jesus Christ to humiliation, bodily suffering and death for our salvation.



We are at the time of the year when all the lessons of humility present themselves to us in a message of love addressed to all of humanity. We only exist thanks to the love of the creator, and our solidarity with our neighbor makes us beings worthy of the love of the Lord. We must celebrate this firm solidarity which manages to transform the simple fragile and ephemeral humans that we are into full-fledged disciples, and proud heirs of this eloquent promise of eternal life.



The world is going through particularly trying days. More than ever, we are in great need of our Christian faith. Let us be humble and generous."



Also read :

Message from Lesly Conde 2024:

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41944-haiti-international-day-of-la-francophonie-message-of-reflection-from-lesly-conde.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41837-haiti-social-international-women-s-day-message-of-reflection-from-lesly-conde.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41575-haiti-black-history-month-message-of-reflection-from-lesly-conde.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41414-haiti-14th-of-the-2010-earthquake-message-from-lesly-conde-video.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41336-haiti-220th-anniversary-of-independence-message-of-reflection-from-lesly-conde.html



Message from Lesly Conde 2023 :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41316-haiti-social-new-year-s-message-from-lesly-conde-2024.html



Message from Lesly Conde 2022 :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-38451-haiti-christmas-end-of-year-message-from-lesly-conde.html



Message from Lesly Conde 2021 :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35584-haiti-social-wishes-from-lesly-conde-on-the-occasion-of-the-new-year.html



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - USA : Biden releases 10 million US to strengthen the fight against gangs in Haiti





President Joe Biden authorized the Secretary of State to tap a $10 million funding fund to procure military equipment, services and training to increase Haiti's capacity to fight criminality.



This assistance is not the first support from the United States, but it demonstrates an ongoing partnership to strengthen the rule of law and democratic institutions. Targeted funds will be aimed at providing specific anti-crime and anti-narcotics assistance under Chapter 8 of Part I of the FAA's developed framework for providing assistance.



An investment in the country's defense capabilities could pave the way for a more secure and stable environment, a prerequisite for positive societal progress. "This decision illustrates a focused intent to dismantle the networks that fuel crime and destruction," a senior State Department official commented on condition of anonymity.



SL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Warning from former US Ambassador James B Foley

The former United States Ambassador to Haiti, James B Foley, in a column published this week in the Washington Post, indicated that if Guy Philippe enters the National Palace the United States will be confronted with "a failed State led by criminals and drug traffickers approximately 700 miles from Florida" calling for a transitional military intervention by the USA...



High tension in Ouanaminthe

High tension last weekend in Ouanaminthe when a group of smugglers attempted to cross the border with goods trucks which were finally intercepted and seized by the police.



Sunrise Airways Courier Service

The Sunrise Airways Courier Service informs its customers in Port-au-Prince that it is possible to collect their packages at its central office from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Sunrise Airways Office, Toussaint Louverture International Airport. No packages will be shipped at this time. For more information, please call +509 4895-4529.



Consulate of Haiti in Santiago closed

The Consulate General of Haiti in Santiago in the Dominican Republic informs that on the occasion of the Easter holidays, its doors will be closed on Wednesday March 27 at noon, Thursday March 28 and Friday March 29, 2024. Services will resume on Monday April 1st 2024.



UNICEF : 1.4 million liters of drinking water distributed

UNICEF indicates that it has facilitated access to drinking water for more than 15,851 displaced people. The UN organization claims to have distributed, since February 29, more than 1,384,000 liters of water in 11 sites in Port-au-Prince.



Extended curfew

The Government, in order to restore order and take appropriate measures to regain control of the situation, extends the curfew throughout the West department until Friday March 29, 2024, between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Remember that this measure does not apply to law enforcement officers on duty, firefighters, ambulance drivers, health personnel and duly identified journalists.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Xiplomacy: China, Nauru gathering momentum for growth of ties

Xinhua) 08:20, March 27, 2024

People enjoy leisure time in a bay in the Republic of Nauru, Jan. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Shen)

During talks with the Nauruan president, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged that the Chinese side is ready to work with the island nation to expand cooperation in economy and trade, climate change, as well as in infrastructure, among other sectors.

BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- The Pacific island nation Nauru on Monday signed up for the Belt and Road Initiative in the presence of its president, David Adeang, who is on a state visit to China on March 24-29, and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

It is Adeang's first China trip since the two countries restored diplomatic ties earlier this year.

During talks with the Nauruan leader, Xi pledged that the Chinese side is ready to work with the island nation to expand cooperation in economy and trade, climate change, as well as in infrastructure, among other sectors.

As the two presidents are charting the course for further growth of bilateral ties, a Chinese-aided solar power project being built with the participation of nearly 100 Nauruan workers has already begun to make a difference to local communities, a living testament to the fast-growing win-win cooperation between the two countries.

A man works at the construction site of redevelopment project of Aiwo Harbor in the Republic of Nauru, Jan. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Shen)

FROM BLUEPRINT TO REALITY

Nauru, with its beautiful tropical scenery and brilliant sunshine, is endearingly dubbed as a "pearl of the Pacific." In the southwestern part of the island nation, rows of blue photovoltaic panels are neatly arranged close to the azure sea, reflecting the dazzling tropical sunlight.

Once connected to the grid, the photovoltaic power generation and energy storage project being constructed by a Chinese company can meet the electricity demand of the entire island.

The project will reduce Nauru's dependence on diesel, bringing down the costs in electricity generation, improving local power supply and increase the share of renewable energy generation. Most importantly, it will significantly add to Nauru's environmental protection efforts, thereby achieving its sustainable development goals.

"Now Nauru's power generation mainly relies on diesel. That's expensive and would pollute the environment," said John Scott, who has been working for the project since 2022.

"There is a lot of sunshine here and it's good for solar power. I believe electricity supply here will be much better when the project is completed," Scott told Xinhua.

On top of building the power project, China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd is also undertaking the redevelopment of Nauru's largest harbor, Aiwo Harbor.

Starting in 2019, the project to be completed in 2025 includes harbor dredging and the construction of a new wharf, a desalination system and a container yard, among other facilities. And in September 2022, the new wharf was put into operation.

The modern seaport has also brought cutting-edge technologies and job opportunities to the island country, facilitating local economic growth by expanding its connectivity with the rest of the world.

Zhu Wei, the contractor's deputy manager and construction manager of the project, has witnessed the development of Aiwo Harbor over the past five years.

"In the past, the old wharf was too small for container ships to dock directly, and they only came once every two months. Now the containers can dock directly at the new wharf, and they come every month or even every 20 days," Zhu told Xinhua.

As the facilities are gradually taking shape, Zhu is proud of his efforts over the past years. "I'm looking forward to seeing the projects I have personally participated in contribute more to the economic development of Nauru."

The rationale behind Nauru's decision to resume diplomatic ties with China "of course is about Nauru's development strategy," Lionel Aingimea, Nauru's foreign minister, said when visiting China in January.

"No developing country wants to be left behind," he said.

This photo taken on Jan. 20, 2024 shows a coastal view of the Republic of Nauru. (Xinhua/Wang Shen)

"GRASS OF HAPPINESS"

Being a Pacific island nation, Nauru is struggling to cope with such pressing challenges as rising sea levels and land erosion brought about by climate change. Worse still, the meager resources of fresh water for daily life is a persistent concern for local residents.

Due to its unfavorable natural conditions for cultivation, Nauru heavily relies on imports of agricultural products, vegetables and fruits, resulting in high prices in the market, said Joanna Olsson, director of the Government Information Office of Nauru.

Juncao, a hybrid grass developed by Chinese scientists as a major multi-functional agricultural resource, offers a feasible resolution to these woes. Translated literally as mushroom grass, Juncao can be used for mushroom farming, or as livestock forage and poultry feed, and a green barrier to forestall desertification.

When working in east China's Fujian Province more than two decades ago, Xi Jinping introduced the Juncao technology to a visiting provincial governor from Papua New Guinea, another island nation in the Pacific, marking the beginning of international cooperation on Juncao technology.

Having taken root in over 100 countries and regions around the globe, Juncao has been hailed by the locals as the "Chinese grass" or "grass of happiness."

Last month, Hess-Tekai Foilape, an agricultural extension officer for Nauru's Department of Environment, Management and Agriculture, became the first person from Nauru to attend a Juncao technology training course held by Chinese scientists in Fiji.

"I believe that adopting Juncao technology in Nauru would be highly beneficial for our country. Potential impacts include improved food security, increased resilience to climate change, and enhanced economic opportunities through the development of new industries," Foilape told Xinhua.

People use fishing nets to catch seafood in the sea in the Republic of Nauru, Jan. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Shen)

GROWING TOGETHER

Both developing countries, China and Nauru face the common tasks of growing the economy, improving people's wellbeing and realizing modernization.

China has won the hearts of the people of Nauru with its own deeds, Foreign Minister Aingimea said.

Recalling his visit to a waste-to-energy plant and an electric vehicle factory in China, he said what impressed him most was "how advanced it is."

"The technology blew my mind, absolutely amazing," he said, depicting China's path towards modernization as "fast and visionary."

The Belt and Road Initiative brings development opportunities to Pacific island nations, said Olsson, who is optimistic about future cooperation between the two nations, particularly on climate change, water supply and agriculture.

In his meeting with Adeang, Xi said China is ready to provide assistance to Nauru for its independent and sustainable development without political strings attached.

Friendship, old or new, will have a bright future as long as it is started. Cooperation, whatever its size, will be productive as long as it is sincere, Xi said.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Jared Schmitt steps into the role of Norwalk's CFO, bringing extensive financial expertise and experience from his tenure in Fairfield. The city of Norwalk, contributed by

NORWALK  After three months of searching, Norwalk has filled the chief financial officer position with Fairfields former CFO.

We are excited to welcome Jared Schmitt as our new CFO, Mayor Harry Rilling said. Schmitt brings a wealth of public financial management experience to the city of Norwalk from the state and local levels and is very knowledgeable about municipal bond sales, capital planning, budget management, risk management and more.

Schmitt was officially hired to be Norwalks CFO after a unanimous vote of approval from the Common Council on Tuesday night.

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Most recently, he served as CFO for the town of Fairfield, and I look forward to having him on our team and know that the city will benefit from all the expertise he brings, Rilling added.

Schmitt served as Fairfield's CFO from 2020 to January 2024. Schmitts departure from Fairfield came shortly after newly elected First Selectman Bill Gerber took office with a vow to reform the towns financial oversight.

I am honored to be selected as the next CFO for the city of Norwalk, Schmitt said. I look forward to working with Mayor Rilling and his team and am excited to continue Norwalks tradition of strong financial management.

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Norwalks former CFO, Henry Dachowitz, left the city at the end of December to work closer to his home in New York City. Dachowitz has been informally helping the city recently during the complicated budget process and has attended several meetings since his departure.

During the Common Council meeting, Schmitt, an Orange resident, said he plans to spend the next few weeks acquainting himself with Norwalk so that he has an understanding of each of the projects and its not just a dollar amount next to a road, theres some meaning to it.

Entering the city at a time when Norwalk is facing a complex budget season, Nora Niedzielski-Eichner, a Common Council member, asked Schmitt about his plans for capital planning.

It was one of the very first things I did in Fairfield and one of the first things that I plan on doing in Norwalk, Schmitt said.

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Schmitt said he plans to look at Norwalks borrowing and set up a framework on how to allocate funds. His first day on the job will be on April 2.

He clearly understands the complicated formula that is needed to maintain a AAA bond rating, its not just one variable but several, said Greg Burnett, a Common Council member. And I think thats very important because thats important to Norwalk, to maintain that rating.

Under Schmitt, a part-time grant writer was hired in Fairfield.

As CFO, he expanded grant writing opportunities, helping to bring in approximately $12 million through Fairfield and implemented a new capital planning process to help improve transparency and support the implementation of additional capital projects, Rilling said.

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Both Common Council members and Norwalk residents have expressed an interest in hiring a grant writer.

As Fairfields CFO, Schmitt oversaw an investigation into the towns credit card use and policy.

With 16 years of industry experience, Schmitt has also worked in Hartford at the Connecticut General Assembly as director of caucus research, where he helped negotiate and analyze the state budget.

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Schmitt has worked as the affordable housing development specialist for Mutual Housing Association of South Central, CT, where he worked closely with economic development directors, CEOs and stakeholders on analyzing housing development viability, the citys statement said.
A Stamford police car. Michael Cummo/Hearst Connecticut Media

STAMFORD  A Norwalk man was sentenced to four years in prison after he pleaded guilty to drug sale charges in connection with a case in which he was originally accused of selling fentanyl-laced cocaine to three people who later overdosed and died.

Xavier Flores, 39, pleaded guilty to three counts of sale of a narcotic substance at state Superior Court in Stamford on Wednesday as a part of an agreed-upon disposition with state prosecutors.

Under the agreement, Flores was sentenced to four years in prison and five years of probation. If Flores violates that probation, he faces up to an additional eight years in prison.

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Typically, a sale of narcotic substance carries a mandatory five-year sentence. However, Judge Gary White said Flores was drug dependent at the time of the crimes, which, under state law, grants White the discretion to undercut the mandatory minimum.

On that July day, Stamford police responded to reports of three unresponsive occupants in a blue Toyota Rav4 parked near St. Benedict Circle and Dale Street. Firefighters and medics, who also responded to the scene, used multiple doses of Narcan to try and revive the occupants.

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Two of the occupants were pronounced dead at the scene, while the third individual was rushed to Stamford Hospital where he later died.

Flores was charged with three counts of first-degree manslaughter, failure to comply with fingerprinting and eight counts of sale of narcotics and conspiracy to commit sale of narcotics.

In December, however, state prosecutors dropped the three counts of first-degree manslaughter against Flores after they discovered multiple deficiencies with the case, Assistant States Attorney Michael Nemec said at the time.

In the wake of the overdose deaths, police used the three victims cellphones to try and pinpoint who had sold them the laced drugs.

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Nemec said this was where the investigation encountered its first problem. While police were able to access two of the phones, one of which showed one of the victims allegedly attempting to coordinate a suspected drug deal with Flores about four days earlier, the third phone was unable to be accessed.

Another issue, Nemec said, was that when police executed eight separate controlled purchases of cocaine of Flores over the next few months, he allegedly sold officers only powder cocaine. Nemec said this wasnt consistent with the drugs found with the three overdose victims, who had possessed cocaine rocks instead.

Lastly, toxicology analyses done on the three victims also showed that they each had different drugs in their systems, which further weakened the case, Nemec said.

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You take all that together and theres no way to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the drugs Xavier Flores presumably sold were the drugs that killed the three people, Nemec said at the time.
Sponsorship helping Havre High FFA add a greenhouse for on-hand learning

Press release

Montana Farmers Union has invested $30,000 in burgeoning FFA chapters over the past year through its new FFA New Chapter Sponsorship program.

Montana Farmers Unions standing FFA New Chapter Sponsorship program was created in 2023 to help with startup costs associated with building a chapter. The program is specifically for new or rechaptered FFA programs from Jan. 1, 2022, and offers $2,500 per qualifying chapter. Florence, Frenchtown, Harrison, Havre, Augusta, Belt Valley, Scobey, Nashua, Whitehall, Winnett, Drummond and Jordan FFA chapters have qualified for the sponsorships.

Educating and connecting with the future generation has always been important to Montana Farmers Union, and the new sponsorship funding is a great way to put that ideal to some practical use, MFU board member Jeff Bangs said.

Honestly, my jaw just hit the floor with the generosity of that offer, said Morgan Kuntz, director of development for the Montana FFA Foundation.

FFA has instilled the importance of community service and career skills in Montana youths since its formation in 1930. Today, Montana FFA has more than 6,600 members.

In Havre, the FFA club plans to use the funds to help pay for a greenhouse to offer hands-on learning and attract more students to the program, said Saralyn Standley, FFA advisor for Havre Public Schools.

Havre is a very strong agricultural community, so it really has been a long time coming for an agricultural program to start, Standley said, adding the chapter is thankful for MFUs and the school districts support.

The new chapter sponsorship program is a natural extension of MFUs longstanding support of FFA, including as a lead sponsor during convention, providing both financial support and leadership opportunities for members, and filling financial needs for special projects.

Recently, MFU Membership Ambassadors visited the 2023 sponsorship recipients to present them with shirts from MFU as well as visit with them about agriculture and MFUs grassroots efforts to support family farms and ranches.

Visiting the new FFA chapters in my area gives me great hope for the future. It is exciting to see ag kids still interested in ag and non-ag kids finding their way into agriculture. There is so much potential for establishing relationships with these aspiring producers. I encourage all farmers and ranchers to help encourage and guide these precious youth as the future generation of farmers and ranchers, MFU Ambassador Samantha Ferrat said.

Its so impressive to see the enthusiasm and energy of the new the Jordan Chapter, MFU Ambassador Eleanor Dutton said. When I asked them why they wanted to start a chapter, the most common answer was, I want to learn more about the different ways ag can be a part of my life after graduation. That is what FFA offers kids  the opportunity to gain experience and knowledge in specific ag fields in an environment of healthy competition and camaraderie. All of those things are transferable to life outside of high school.

People can learn more about MFU FFA New Chapter Sponsorship program by contacting MFU Chief of Staff Matt Rains at [email protected] or Montana FFA Foundation Director of Development Morgan Kuntz at [email protected].
Family farmers and ranchers from Montana traveled to Scottsdale, Ariz., March 10-12 for the 122nd National Farmers Union convention. Delegates and attendees heard from nationally known speakers, administration officials, and each other during policy debate.

Over the past year, NFU has increased membership by more than 12,600 members, as well as continued the impactful Fairness for Farmers campaign. This campaign and meetings with administration officials in the Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Department of Environmental Quality have elevated issues of importance to farmers, like right to repair, and anti-competitive practices and market concentration.

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack also took time to address attendees with updates on the Farm Bill and answer questions.

He also announced a Product of the USA labeling rule that requires packages of meat labeled as "Product of the USA" to be born, raised and processed in the USA. Products with packaging that includes an image of the U.S. flag must also be born, raised and processed in the U.S.

MFU President Walter Schweitzer called the rule a "great first step" toward mandatory country of origin labeling and said the rule will give U.S. ranchers credit for their high quality product and give consumers confidence because of truthful labels.

Half of the convention schedule is dedicated to policy considerations, debate, and votes. Policy informs the organization and dictates which issues NFU's president and staff will promote or oppose. Montana's delegation played an active role during policy consideration.

Federal farm subsidies was one issue that was discussed during policy work. As a family farm organization, NFU is concerned that 85 percent of farm subsidy money goes to the largest 15 percent of farms. Numerous policy proposals discussed methods of redirecting government funding. Most proposals generated spirited debate but failed to pass. One proposal would have altered the way the Farm Service Agency Credit Programs evaluated retirement accounts. The change was opposed by Montana delegate Sarah Degn who said, "I came back to the farm with a little bit saved in a retirement account from a previous career. Having to liquidate that account to finance my farm or call that an asset to acquire a loan would have incurred a huge penalty. Farmers deserve to save for retirement, too."

Sometimes national policy must be expanded because regional or state needs have become relevant nationally. Erik Somerfeld, an MFU board member and veteran delegate, proposed and successfully passed new policy.

"MFU has had policy opposing the removal of dams on the Snake and Columbia River systems since 1999. Until the last year or so, we hadn't been worried that this could happen. Now that it is possible, we passed policy at National to protect the hydropower produced and the grain shipped by those river systems," Somerfeld explained.

Whether it was networking with NFU members from around the country, learning from industry experts, hearing updates from Biden Administration officials about their headway tackling anti-competitive practices, or helping craft policy to direct the organization in the coming year, MFU delegates left convention hopeful, inspired, and more dedicated to the success of family farms and ranches than ever.

"I'm inspired and reminded why farming is so important. I come home ready and eager to go to work," MFU member John Wicks said. "This administration is listening to our concerns and actually taking action. It's refreshing to see the work of all these people come to fruition for family farms, and it shows that being involved is important and is the only way to get results."
Supo on Tuesday reminded that Russia regards Finland as an unfriendly state and is continuing to conduct intelligence and broad-based influence campaigns against the country, with the threat of such campaigns elevated despite deteriorating conditions for human intelligence operations.

RUSSIA remains the most significant threat to national security in Finland, according to the Finnish Security and Intelligence Service (Supo).

The conditions have deteriorated as a result of counter-intelligence efforts, the expulsions of intelligence officers and the strict visa policy adopted by Finland.

The country is protected from more forceful measures by its membership in Nato.

Supo said Russia has expressed its dissatisfaction with the new foreign and security policy stance by changing how its border officials operate on the border with Finland. The country, for example, has leveraged third-country migrants to exert pressure at the border in order to showcase the consequences of adopting a stance it considers unfriendly.

Russia has no reason to re-consider its approach in the near future, according to Supo.

The threat [of weaponised immigration] is long-standing. For Russia, its an easy way to keep Finland on its toes, commented Teemu Turunen, the acting director general at Supo.

Supo urged Finland to prepare for malign activity both today and in the long term, with the cyberworld and critical infrastructure, especially underwater infrastructure, under an elevated threat. It added that large-scale influence campaigns that seek to paralyse the operation of critical infrastructure are nevertheless unlikely in the short term.

Turunen reminded that various influence measures, espionage charges and asset seizures can be targeted at individual Finns in Russia. The Ministry for Foreign Affairs has long advised people to avoid travelling to Russia.

Russia is ultimately seeking to influence political decision making or restrict the ability of policy makers to make decisions in Finland, according to the assessment by Supo. Although Finland has managed to make the environment for human intelligence operations more challenging, the threat of intelligence should not be underestimated, it stressed.

There are new opportunities and new measures, and theyre seeking to take advantage of them. One possible approach is to use various criminal organisations to achieve the objectives, said Turunen.

Supo has contributed its expertise to the effort to sift through the backgrounds of migrants who have crossed the border from Russia to Finland since August. Turunen on Tuesday reminded that the opportunities to employ refugees as spies are very limited.

Russian nationals in Finland, he estimated, have shown no signs of becoming an influential movement, with the majority of them not supportive of the actions of Kremlin.

The risk that theyd become an influential power in Finnish society is relatively small, commented Turunen.

In addition to Russia, China is carrying out intelligence operations in Finland. A key question for the country is whether Finland joining Nato has an impact on its stature toward China, estimated Supo.

Supo on Tuesday published its latest yearbook, revealing that the number of persons of interest for counterterrorism officials has stayed at 350. The threat of terrorism has similarly remained at the second level of its four-level scale, stemming especially from individuals or small groups that espouse radical right-wing or Islamist ideologies.

Terror attacks, though, are unlikely in the near future, it said.

The number of martial arts clubs associated with far-right ideologies has increased over the past year in Finland. Supo pointed out that such clubs target their communication at an audience that extends beyond people with far-right views.

While organised far-right activities do not pose an imminent threat of an attack, they do create a breeding ground for the radicalisation of individuals.

The most concerning persons of interest are those with the ability and opportunity to carry out acts of violence. This is related to all sorts of ideologies, remarked Jonna Turunen, a deputy director at Supo.

Teemu Turunen on Tuesday viewed that there is a genuine risk of violence spreading in the Middle East. The violence, he added, has also raised the threat of terrorism in the Nordics, including in Finland.

The fact that theres been no change in the threat level doesnt mean that the underlying situation has stayed the same, emphasised Jonna Turunen.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
Exchange Project founder Carly Ridloff, of Westport, hugs Anna Barnes, of Stamford, at the Exchange Project's pop up event at Nichols MD dermatology in Fairfield, Conn. on Thursday, March 21, 2024. Brian A. Pounds/Hearst Connecticut Media Exchange Project founder Carly Ridloff, of Westport, with a rack of clothes ready for exchange at pop up event at Nichols MD dermatology in Fairfield, Conn. on Thursday, March 21, 2024. Brian A. Pounds/Hearst Connecticut Media Anna Barnes, of Stamford, and lifestyle content creator Zac Mathias, of Weston, at the Exchange Project pop up event at Nichols MD dermatology in Fairfield, Conn. on Thursday, March 21, 2024. Brian A. Pounds/Hearst Connecticut Media Vendor Virginia Barlow, of Easton, sells her love oz the label upcycled coats at the Exchange Project's pop up event at Nichols MD dermatology in Fairfield, Conn. on Thursday, March 21, 2024. Brian A. Pounds/Hearst Connecticut Media Victoria Considine, of Westport, gets a facial treatment from licenced aesthetician Lexie Durand during the Exchange Project pop up event at Nichols MD dermatology in Fairfield, Conn. on Thursday, March 21, 2024. Brian A. Pounds/Hearst Connecticut Media

WESTPORT  Sustainability is Carly Ridloff's goal. In the almost three years she's run The Exchange Project, she's cultivated just that  most recently with a sustainable shopping event in Fairfield ahead of Earth Day.

Ridloff, a Westport resident, launched The Exchange Project in 2021, a concept that aims to reduce carbon footprints by exchanging clothing and keeping it in circulation longer. She does this through shopping events, online sales and in-showroom appointments.

"We love that fashion really brings people together," Ridloff said.

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On March 21, The Exchange Project headed to NicholsMD in Fairfield. There, attendees received food, drinks, skincare treatments and goodie bags worth hundreds of dollars, and participated in a dedicated shopping experience. NicholsMD also provided a TerraCycle program, which allowed people to donate empty beauty product containers, which can't be recycled in a traditional fashion.

Ridloff said when people donate clothing to consignment or second-hand stores, a low percentage makes it onto a store's floor, since there are not enough shoppers to match the amount of items given. Excess items are shipped to third-world countries and dumped into landfills, she said. The clothing rots in the landfills and creates greenhouse gases; synthetics get into waterways and soil, which disrupts ecosystems.

Production in the fashion industry isn't slowing, she said, so consumers need to figure out ways to deal with excess clothing, such as with what her company is doing.

Interested participants sign up for $125 and are asked to clean out their closets, selecting approximately 10 items in great condition, and drop them at a designated location. Then, at the selling event, the clothes are organized onto racks; participants can mingle and leave with 10 new items and a gift bag, and get to participate in an activity, depending on the location, such as a workout or listening to a speaker.

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The Exchange Project has expanded since it was opened, hosting events in Connecticut, New Jersey, the Hamptons, Brooklyn, New York City and down to Miami. Ridloff said they're making the brands more accessible by offering online sales and in-showroom appointments.

Ridloff said a rule of thumb when choosing clothing out of closets is to think if a best friend would borrow it. The idea is to collect clothes that are able to be reused, not something stained, damaged or old.

The clothing for each event is curated, arranged in styles and sizes.

We "want our guests to look good and feel good and share their positivity with the world," she said.

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Anything that is unclaimed by the end of the event is donated to a local women's shelter selected by the event's hosts.

The Exchange Project staff also attend each event to help people find and style clothes, if they need it. At the Fairfield event, a local fashion influencer, Zac Mathias, provided styling tips.

Ridloff said one of the big ideas behind her brand is "moving on from what no longer serves you to make room for things that do," both inside and outside of clothing.

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On September 25, 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi summoned top business leaders, diplomats and reporters to New Delhis Vigyan Bhawan for the launch of the Make in India initiative. The importance of the announcement was made obvious: it was broadcast live in Indian diplomatic missions globally.

Now, a new era of economic regeneration has begun and that belongs to Asia. It is our responsibility how to make it belong to India, Modi told the gathering, which included leaders of global multinational companies. India lost the opportunity when the industrial revolution swept the West three centuries ago, he said, as he called for India to leverage labour-intensive manufacturing and create millions of jobs.

Even as Indias economic growth has been high  it is today the fastest-growing large economy, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF); and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has said that India will clock more than 8% growth in the current fiscal year  the growth is unevenly distributed. Rural wage growth has remained stagnant, and the country is struggling to create meaningful jobs for its young workforce. Past efforts by the government to boost manufacturing in India did not work: the share of manufacturing in Indias Gross Domestic Product has declined from about 17% in 2010 to about 13% in 2022, thereby hampering a farm-to-factory economic transformation that propelled countries such as China to prosperity.

In 2020, the government announced a Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to revive manufacturing. Under the scheme, the government will pay manufacturers if they keep producing more. India has allocated about 1.97 lakh crore for this scheme, targeting sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, telecom and renewable energy, among others, all of which are essential for building a global factory hub. And there are tailwinds. Indias latest push for manufacturing has come at a time when a unique business strategy has taken hold of the global economy: China plus one. Global firms are diversifying manufacturing away from China to hedge against any investment risks owing to geopolitical tensions.

There are signs of success. Apple has ramped up its manufacturing facilities in Sriperumbudur, an industrial town in Tamil Nadu, and aims to produce about 50 million iPhones annually in India by 2025, or one in four iPhones produced globally. Last year, Apple CEO Tim Cook flew down to New Delhi to meet Modi and reaffirmed the companys commitment to India. Apple has reportedly generated 100,000 blue-collar factory jobs in India.

However, this trend has yet to spread beyond Apple even after three years of providing production subsidies. Since 2021, when inflows were at a record $85 billion, FDI has declined affecting sectors such as computer software and hardware, automobile, construction and metallurgical industries, government data indicates. Between April and December 2023, the total FDI in India declined by about 13% to just $32 billion.

Without doubt, multinational firms want to move out of China, and the only other big production and consumption centre where they could move is India. The government has realised that this situation presents a historic opportunity for the country, and it is determined to seize it. It is even sweetening the deal by giving firms subsidies to move production to India. But so far not that many firms are taking advantage, said Josh Felman, head of the Washington D.C.-based JH Consulting, who also led the International Monetary Funds (IMF) India office in the mid-2000s.

We thought Apple might be the vanguard of a big wave, but so far this hasn't happened.

Chinas decline does not ordain Indias rise, Felman said.

Consider the electronics sector. In January 2024, the India Cellular & Electronics Association found that India imposes much higher tariffs on the import of electronic components than Vietnam and China. Moreover, unlike India, Vietnam has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries from where it imports goods covering about 80% of imports  and levies just 0.7% import tariff compared to Indias 6.7%. The ICEAs assessment stated that unless India reverses its import tariffs, its export growth would slow down.

The declining trend of import tariffs reversed as India jacked up tariffs on a variety of goods in order to protect its domestic industry: since 2016, tariffs have gone up on about 500 goods, the Indian Express reported.

There's a further problem, in that protectionism discourages investment. Think about an actual and important example -- the garment industry. In Bangladesh and Vietnam, garment firms have guarantees that their supplies will arrive duty-free because these countries have free trade agreements with all the major economies, which inscribe zero tariffs into law. But in India, tariffs are higher and there's no guarantee that might not be increased further tomorrow. As a result, garment firms in India will be much more reluctant to invest than firms in Bangladesh or Vietnam. And that makes it difficult to develop the industry, Felman said. It damages your exports, not just today but also tomorrow.

India, however, has maintained that import tariffs are needed to protect its domestic industry. Speaking after the first India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting in Brussels last year, Commerce minister Piyush Goyal stated that Indias high tariffs are in response to competition from non-transparent geographies.

Goyal said Indias tariffs are often misconstrued" to be very high on most items, raw materials and intermediates. But in reality, the duties are very low. As per the commerce ministrys official statement, Goyal said duties on technological items which are helping the Indian economy grow are very low and that the actual applied rates of tariffs are lower than the agreed bound rates at the WTO, Mint reported.

The government has also promised huge subsidies to help turn India into a semiconductor manufacturing hub. However, former RBI governor Raghuram Rajan questioned the quantum of money allocated to give away as production subsidies. Rajan has also called into question Indias pivot to manufacturing as a future economic model and has said that India should rather leverage its booming services sector to propel growth.

According to Felman, rather than offering protection to firms that set up factories in India, the government should copy the economic strategy of reducing tariffs and trade barriers that China employed when it was industrialising. After China joined the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in 2001, it reduced import tariffs and further liberalised trade, which boosted its labour-intensive manufacturing exports. In 2009, China overtook Germany to become the worlds top exporter. In 2023, even as its economy slowed down and it faced trade tensions with the US and EU, China exported goods worth about $3.4 trillion.

Perhaps we just need to wait a bit longer, as the shift out of China is only just beginning," said Felman.
Among its neighbours, few are as close to India as the mountain kingdom of Bhutan. Their mutual understanding has braved some of the roughest years of South Asian geopolitics. But, winds have gathered pace and the waters are choppier by the year. New Delhi knows this well and has buckled up.

This was evident in Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Bhutan last week, days after the announcement of general election dates and a week after the Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay himself visited India. Both countries inked an array of agreements. Why is New Delhi going out of its way to fortify a relationship that is already so strong? Whats the subtext of Modis Himalayan outreach?

Besides the seven MoUs and agreements signed by both sides, there were two prominent outcomes of Modis visit to Bhutan. One, Modi announced that India would offer a whopping 10,000 crore for the kingdoms 13th Five Year Plan, which is double the amount New Delhi extended to the kingdom for the previous plan. Two, the Bhutanese king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, conferred upon Modi his kingdoms highest national award, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo.

Bhutans red carpet welcome to Modi, including the Kings special dinner at the Lingkana Palace, reflects Thimphus outward recognition that India remains its closest partner in the neighbourhood. This is in addition to the fact that the Bhutanese prime minister, Tshering Tobgay, chose India as his first foreign destination since taking charge in January. In turn, its clear India desires to woo Thimpu and keep it squarely in its orbit.

These mutual expressions of friendship would seem ordinary but for the growing Bhutan-China relations. Beijing has been trying to steadily increase its engagement with Bhutan as part of its pugnacious outreach to Indias neighbours over the past decade. According to noted China scholar, Srikanth Kondapalli, this is also part of a grand irredentist endeavour to revive the dream of early 20th century Chinese warlord Zhao Erfeng to control the five Himalayan states. Needless to say, India, faced with broader Chinese expansion in South Asia, is unnerved.

Most of the Chinese nettling in Bhutan began in 2017 when Beijings ingress into the Doklam plateau located at the India-Bhutan-China tri-junction provoked a terse, 73-day military standoff with Indian forces. Since then, according to various reports, such as those published by Reuters in January 2022 and Chatham House in December 2023, China has ramped up infrastructure-building in disputed areas along Bhutans western and northern borders. The logic of this salami-slicing is to stake a de facto claim on the disputed territory and eventually establish a permanent Chinese presence.

If India found any assurance in the fact that Bhutan and China had no formal bilateral relations, the needle seemed to shift five months ago.

In October 2023, Dr Tandi Dorji, then the Bhutanese foreign minister in the previous government of Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, landed up in Beijing with a delegation. Three senior Chinese figures in the Xi Jinping administration gave him an audience  vice president Han Zheng; foreign minister Wang Yi; and Yis deputy, Sun Weidong. Beijing welcomed and treated Dorji with much warmth, even giving him a tour of historical landmarks in the Chinese capital city. Both sides talked about settling the boundary dispute by expediting the implementation of the so-called Three-Step Roadmap, the MoU for which was signed in 2021. But, that wasnt it. They also discussed establishing formal diplomatic relations.

The joint statement from the Dorji-Zheng meeting noted: Bhutanese government attaches great importance to the development of relations with China and firmly abides by the one-China principle. Just months earlier, The Bhutanese carried out a report about the prime minister telling a Belgian journalist that the border dispute in Doklam involved all three equal countries China, India and Bhutan. Tshering clarified that his countrys position on the Doklam issue had not changed, but after the interview came out in Le Libre, there were concerns that Thimphu was no longer, according to India a privileged position in regional geopolitics.

While Tshering is no longer in power, India views the boundary talks as Chinas way to force Thimphu to give up disputed territory. According to some reports, Beijing is seeking to acquire the Doklam plateau in exchange for territory along Bhutans northern frontiers, not very far from the Northeast Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, which, too, the Chinese claim for themselves. For India, this would be a strategic catastrophe. Doklam overlooks the Chickens Neck  a thin sliver of land connecting Northeast India with the mainland. By grabbing it, Beijing would secure quick and easy access to one of Indias most vulnerable land bridges.

That China has already surpassed India as Bhutans largest trading partner also doesnt help. Add to the mix Beijings steady ingress into disputed territory along Indias northern frontiers, especially in eastern Ladakh. Yet, the Modi governments unmitigated outreach to the Tobgay administration and the latters counter-embrace of India reflect the resilience hardwired into India-Bhutan ties. Even with all its military might, China will find it incredibly difficult to dislodge this long-time relationship.

Angshuman Choudhury is an Associate Fellow with the Centre for Policy Research and focuses on Northeast India and Myanmar. The views expressed are personal.
Taurus - 28th March 2024 Daily Horoscope Prediction says, be calm in the love life and pamper your partner. Look for pleasure in your personal life and spare time for love. Be creative at your job and utilize the wealth smartly. Stable health is another highlight of the day. Taurus Daily Horoscope Today, March 27, 2024: Taurus Daily Horoscope Today, March 28, 2024: Both wealth and health will also give positive results.

Be calm in the love life and pamper your partner. Your professional life will be productive today. Both wealth and health will also give positive results.

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Taurus Love Horoscope Today

Take up the responsibility to resolve the existing crisis in the love affair. Minor tremors will be there in the first part of the day but do not let it go beyond evening. You should be careful to not use harsh words to the lover. Also, be sure to avoid unpleasant conversations. Single Taurus natives can expect someone to enter their life today. You may also propose and expect a positive response. Some females will also rekindle the relationship with the ex-lover after resolving all the old feuds.

Taurus Career Horoscope Today

No major hiccup will be there in the professional life. Your tasks will seem simple and the results will also be positive. Keep office politics away and focus on the work. You can also update the resume as you may receive interview calls. Some students looking for admission to foreign universities can expect good news. Businessmen will have opportunities to launch new ventures. The first part of the day as good to sign new deals. Money will also be no big issue.

Taurus Money Horoscope Today

Financial prosperity will be there as wealth will come in from different sources. You may win a legal battle over property. Females will spend on the party today while male Taurus natives will have requirements at home. If youre planning to start a new business, then the outcomes would be favorable. Traders handling textiles, leather, and electronic products will see a good return today.

Taurus Health Horoscope Today

No major health issue will trouble you. However, Taurus natives with heart-related issues must be careful while lifting heavy objects today. Practice yoga and make it a habit in the early morning. If you are not comfortable with extreme body postures, switch to lighter exercises but maintaining the body is important. Female natives may develop blood pressure and they may need to consult a doctor.

Taurus Sign Attributes

Strength - Passionate, Practical, Meticulous, Patient, Artsy, Compassionate

Weakness Intolerant, Reliant, stubborn

Symbol Bull

Element Earth

Body Part Neck & Throat

Sign Ruler Venus

Lucky Day Friday

Lucky Color Pink

Lucky Number 6

Lucky Stone Opal

Taurus Sign Compatibility Chart

Natural affinity: Cancer, Virgo, Capricorn, Pisces

Good compatibility: Taurus, Scorpio

Fair compatibility: Aries, Gemini, Libra, Sagittarius

Less compatibility: Leo, Aquarius

By: Dr. J. N. Pandey

Vedic Astrology & Vastu Expert

Website: https://www.cyberastro.com

E-mail: caresponse@cyberastro.com

Phone: 9717199568, 9958780857
To those who marry authors, I would say, Do not help him  to the extent of extinguishing your own life  but go on with former pursuits, cautions Emma Gifford in a private journal she had kept on her husband, the Victorian novelist and poet Thomas Hardy. When Thomas came upon these damning confessions after her death, he burnt them, page by page. Emmas journals are resurrected from the ashes in Elizabeth Lowrys recent novel The Chosen. Recreated entries, based on letters, accounts and whatever writings survived of Emma, bring her story back to life, while also bringing into focus her troubled marriage. When the Thomas of Lowrys fiction discovers Emmas journals, he is paralysed with remorse. Their marriage may not have been a happy one; the two had spent the last 20 years of her life on separate floors and barely saw each other. But seeing his life, his work and their marriage through Emmas eyes pushes him to recognise the part he played in reducing his most passionate champion to a shadow of her former self  unhappy, neglected and slowly becoming invisible. The shock of her revelations freezes him in a haunted limbo, mourning a woman he didnt fully know and didnt bother to fully understand. A scene from Priscilla directed, and produced by Sofia Coppola. The film is based on the 1985 memoir Elvis and Me by Priscilla Presley. (Amazon Prime)

Emma Hardys journals are resurrected from the ashes in Elizabeth Lowrys recent novel The Chosen. (Amazon)

Emma was once a young woman with her own writerly ambitions until marriage became her prison. Long before Emma and well after, women have forsaken their own creative pursuits to rally around their celebrated husbands  only to be written off as a footnote, airbrushed out of the picture and pushed out of frame. Now, books like The Chosen and Wifedom: Mrs Orwells Invisible Life and films like Maestro and Priscilla are rescuing spouses from obscurity to recast them as historical actors in the tales of artistic achievements we so cherish. The idea of genius as the apotheosis of individual creativity is reconfigured as a triumph of an enterprise that is sometimes collaborative, sometimes carnivorous, sometimes even cannibalistic. From artist to artist, spouses have had to take on the sweeping roles of muse, mother, maid, manager and martyr. Wives, in particular, have posed, typed, counselled, proofread, edited, negotiated, raised children, and endured infidelities  all for the sake of creating optimum conditions for genius to thrive. As the cultural spotlight shines on these women at last, it isnt surprising that they emerge as the spine and the beating heart of the stories, even if they arent necessarily at the centre of these stories.

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In Maestro, the portrait of legendary conductor-composer Leonard Bernstein isnt half as interesting as the portrait of his marriage with Felicia Montealegre. This is partly down to the gulf between the two lead performances: Carey Mulligan embodiment of a supportive, defiant and ultimately forgiving wife ironically overshadows Bradley Coopers hollow impersonation of genius. Felicia was an actor herself who performed on TV and Broadway. But her longest-serving role becomes playing second fiddle to Leonard, enabling his genius and bringing up their three children. I am willing to accept you as you are, without being a martyr or sacrificing myself on the LB altar, she had once written in a letter to Leonard, unaware of the future she is enlisting herself for by marrying a closeted bisexual man. With each infidelity, she starts to disappear more and more from his life. As Leonard gets sloppier, her frustration sours into anger, culminating in a heated argument and a painful realisation.

Carey Mulligan and Bradley Cooper in Maestro (A scene from Maestro)

Its my own arrogance, to think I could survive on what he could give. Its just so ironic. I would look at everyone, even my own children, with such pity because of their longing for his attention. It was sort of banner I wore so proudly: I dont need. I dont need. And look at me now. Whos the one who hasnt been honest? These words are charged with regret and resignation of a woman whose fierce commitment to her husband has come at the price of her own happiness. When Felicia confronts Leonard on his infidelities, the myth of genius is punctured, exposing how it can be used as an excuse for dishonesty by those who make their living creating new fictions, new worlds, new sounds  as if the novelty of other lovers were necessary fuel for creativity.

Pursuing concurrent creative careers has torn at the fabric of many a marriage. The household of F Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald could not withstand the pressure of more than one literary talent. But all the pain and turbulence from the marriage did fuel a lot of Zeldas writing. F Scott undermined her ambitions, while stealing wholesale from her journals. Suffering breakdown after breakdown, in and out of clinics for years, Zelda died in a fire at a psychiatric hospital in 1948. Camille Claudel and Auguste Rodin, Pablo Picasso and Dora Maar (and later Francoise Gilot), and Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, all made for no less passionate yet calamitous creative pairings.

One towering talent per household is no guarantee of a happy marriage either. Not when the towering talent is a control freak. Priscilla Beaulieu was 14 when she met the 24-year-old Elvis Presley. From the first time she visited his mansion in Graceland till the time she left, she was a woman whose relationship with the King of Rock and Roll had become her gilded cage. Adapted from her 1985 memoir Elvis and Me, Sofia Coppolas Priscilla finds a naive teenager trapped by the fairy-tale allure of celebrity. Through Cailee Spaenys mascaraed eyes, we feel Priscillas suffocation as Elvis slowly but surely moulds her in his own image, from picking out her clothes to stifling her sexuality. The quiet anguish of being infantilised like she was a child playing dress-up and the simmering desperation of being neglected like she was a piece of furniture, harden into a maturing defiance of a woman striving to find agency.

Part memoir, part biography, part speculative fiction, Wifedom: Mrs Orwells Invisible Life rescues Eileen Blair from the blinding dazzle of her husband George Orwell. (Amazon)

Clara Schumann was a child prodigy but she was plagued with self-doubt as a composer. On marrying Robert Schumann, she not only had to care for their eight children but also a husband who suffered from bouts of depression. Any discussion as to why she could never reach the same heights as her husband must take into account the social conditions that hemmed in women like Clara. Matrimony, historically, brings with it a structural imbalance, a point emphasised by Anna Funder in her new book. As she sizes up the motherload of (her own) wifedom, Funder conjures another literary spouse buried first by domesticity, then by history. Part memoir, part biography, part speculative fiction, Wifedom: Mrs Orwells Invisible Life rescues Eileen Blair from the blinding dazzle of her husband George Orwell. Eileen had a stronger influence on Orwells work than he or history gave her credit for. One of the curious discoveries Funder makes is that Animal Farm may not have been read today in its current form if not for Eileen. The form of the book itself  as fable, novel, satire  was Eileens idea, Funder writes. She steered him away from writing a critical essay on Stalin and totalitarianism. Nineteen Eighty-Four shared a similar title and a similar dystopian vision as a poem Eileen had written at university called End of the Century, 1984. Sadly, Eileen did not live to see either of her husbands most enduring works published. She died during a hysterectomy in 1945.

Criticism of the misogyny in Orwells work may not be new. But many readers were shocked to learn about the claims of sexual assault and instances of the writer sleeping with Eileens friends and taking her permission to sleep with prostitutes. For Funder, it is Eileens invisibility, her erasure that is particularly troubling. It was Eileen who typed up Homage to Catalonia, Orwells memoir about his experiences in the Spanish Civil War. Yet, across the hundreds of pages, Funder finds Orwell mentioning Eileen as my wife 37 times, not once naming her. No character can come to life without a name, writes Funder. But from a wife, which is a job description, it can all be stolen.

In Vera, a biography of Vladimir Nabokovs wife, Stacey Schiff finds a woman so devoted to her husband and his work, she is willing to erase herself. The same woman who saved an early draft of Lolita from an incinerator, destroyed all her letters to Nabokov, leaving us to see her as only he saw her. Vera was his first reader, his editor, his driver, his agent and his publicist. Schiff contends Nabokovs public persona was in fact Veras creation. Vera assumed her married name almost as a stage name; rarely has matrimony so much represented a profession. It was one of the ironies of the life that  born at a time and place where women could and did lay claim to all kinds of ambitions  she should elevate the role of wife to a high art.

Mutually supportive creativity isnt inconceivable but it is rare. Think George Eliot and George Henry Lewes, Marina Abramovic and Ulay, Joan Didion and John Gregory Dunne, Zadie Smith and Nick Laird. Virginia and Leonard Woolf? Maybe. History has been much kinder to Leonard than it has to most literary spouses. For three decades, he is said to have nurtured Virginias genius through manic-depressive episodes and affairs. The couple founded Hogarth Press, which published not only Woolfs novels like Orlando and The Waves, but also works by other writers like TS Eliots The Waste Land. Leonard himself was a writer, having authored the 1913 novel The Village in the Jungle. But he knew very well who the genius was between the two. Before she died by suicide, Virginia addressed her final letter to Leonard, expressing her gratitude for whatever little happiness and strength she found in their marriage. If anybody could have saved me it would have been you. Everything has gone from me but the certainty of your goodness, she wrote. Leonard may have brought some degree of stability to Virginias life. But he could also be controlling and quite unpleasant, as Sophie Cunningham discovered in her metafictional novel This Devastating Fever.

Marriages set two imaginations to work constructing narratives about experience presumed to be the same for both, wrote Phyllis Rose. Happy marriages seem to me those in which the two partners agree on the scenario they are enacting. (Amazon)

Perhaps, it is the foundational power imbalance of the matrimonial institution that must be placed under scrutiny, as Phyllis Rose did in Parallel Lives. On studying the relationships of five famous couples (Jane Welsh and Thomas Carlyle, Effie Gray and John Ruskin, Harriet Taylor and John Stuart Mill, Catherine Hogarth and Charles Dickens, George Eliot and George Henry Lewes), she found the sole unmarried couple (Eliot and Lewes) to be the happiest. Marriages set two imaginations to work constructing narratives about experience presumed to be the same for both, wrote Rose. Happy marriages seem to me those in which the two partners agree on the scenario they are enacting. Eliot and Lewes had agreed to enact a scenario not bound by law, but built on personal commitment without competitive reservations  and maybe that made all the difference. It goes without saying that narratives like Wifedom and Maestro give a voice to the forgotten wives, while also giving long-deserved due to the many roles they played in their superstar husbands creative productions. But the two running themes across the books and the films is how genius can be used as a shield and how fame can heighten the power imbalance in a marriage. The price of genius and fame remains invisible until it isnt.

Prahlad Srihari is a film and pop culture writer. He lives in Bangalore.
 ..:    2023       -     29%
In recent Dogwifhat news, the meme coin's 50% performance has stirred the market, highlighting its potential. Meanwhile, the ICP crypto price recorded a peak of $17, showcasing its growing relevance. Amidst these developments, BlockDAG emerges as the most popular cryptocurrency, drawing investor interest with its innovative approach and promising prospects, reshaping the crypto landscape.

WIF

In recent Dogwifhat news, the meme coin market has seen a resurgence, with Dogwifhat (WIF) outshining its peers. While coins like DOGE and BONK showed modest performance, WIF, inspired by a viral meme of a Shiba Inu in a hat, performed well by 50%. This significant performance has propelled its market cap beyond $2 billion, distinguishing it from other meme coins.

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Unlike DOGE's 5% and SHIB's 4% decrease, WIF's steady climb since December, especially during the late February meme coin craze, highlights its growing appeal and solidifies its position as a top contender in the meme coin arena.

ICP

The Internet Computer (ICP) price has seen a significant performance, reaching $17, marking its highest point in 2023. This is attributed to the platform's unique offerings, such as the development of decentralized Web3 projects and the introduction of ckBTC, a Bitcoin equivalent. Additionally, the trial launch of artificial intelligence (AI) on the network has contributed to the price hike, reflecting the growing importance of AI in the industry.

Cryptocurrencies

BlockDAG

BlockDAG is swiftly rising as the most popular cryptocurrency, marked by its notable achievements in the presale and attracting global investor attention. With a significant $8.8 million recorded in its latest funding round and 5.19 billion coins sold, BlockDAG is ambitiously aiming for $600 million in sales by 2024. This target is set against the backdrop of a crypto market dominated by established names like Ethereum and Bitcoin, the most popular cryptocurrencies. Yet, BlockDAG differentiates itself with a novel approach that has garnered strong investor confidence in its growth potential.

BlockDAG

BlockDAG promises accessibility, inclusivity, and the prospect of significant performance, marking it as a leading choice for investors ready to tap into the next major wave in the cryptocurrency market.

In essence, BlockDAG stands out for its innovative approach and the compelling opportunity it offers for financial growth, challenging the dominance of the most popular cryptocurrencies. Its rapid presale success and ambitious goals highlight BlockDAG's potential as an unparalleled investment prospect, appealing to those looking to engage with a pioneering movement in the crypto space.

BlockDAG's $2 Million Giveaway

In a whirlwind of activity, Dogwifhat news has taken the crypto world by storm, with its price at 50%, showcasing the meme coin's unexpected dominance. Meanwhile, the ICP crypto price hits $17, reflecting the Internet Computer's innovative push into AI and decentralised Web3 projects. Amid these trends, BlockDAG has emerged as a frontrunner, drawing considerable investment through its innovative approach and ambitious goals, further sweetened by a $2 million giveaway to fifty of its community members. This has encouraged participation and engagement within the BlockDAG community, emphasizing the value of active involvement and networking.

Learn Abou BlockDAG Now!

Website: https://blockdag.network

Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network

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Mr Crust Bakers, the name itself, shows that they plan the cakes that precisely suit your decision whatever event it is. They have been at your administration since 2012 at Vijay Nagar, New Delhi. Recently, they were felicitated by HT City Foodies for the Most preferred bakery in North Delhi. With a vision to craft premium bakery products for all sweet enthusiasts, they source superior quality ingredients from across the world. Mr Crust believes in delivering exceptional culinary experiences, starting from the fine flour blend to sugar, butter, and heartfelt emotions to create the perfect batter. Their dedication to bringing good food to many hands resonates through every bite of their handcrafted treats. Currently, Mr Crust outlets are available across Vijay Nagar, Ashok Vihar, Hudson Lane, Rohini, Gurugram & Laxmi Nagar. Envisioned by Lido Joseph and Vel Murugan, the outlets enjoy an outpouring of love from their customers, with around 1000 takeaway orders and 400 dining orders fulfilled by the talented team of 175 employees across all outlets.

Mr. Crust Bakers have been active since 2012 at Vijay Nagar, New Delhi.

Mr Crust Baker gets ready extreme cakes with icing of feelings and love over them. They have an assortment of cakes and attempt to concoct new thoughts unfailingly.

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Help celebrate a special day or commemorate a significant occasion with a sweet treat from Mr. Crust Bakers.

Help celebrate a special day or commemorate a significant occasion with a sweet treat from Mr. Crust Bakers. Whether you are searching for a special birthday cake or simply looking for a sweet ending to an everyday meal, The Mr. Crust Bakers are sure to have something freshly baked to suit your mood. Our name represents considerable authority in redid wedding cakes, commemoration cakes, commitment cakes, kids birthday cakes, planner cakes, child shower cakes, subject cakes, photograph cakes and cupcakes, festivity cakes, single girl party cakes, cakes for gifting. The variety of 100% vegetarian customer cakes are available in different types like Number cake, Cartoon Cake, Cup Cake, Multi-Tier Cake and Photo Cake. The products in the menu vary from sweet to savoury. They have cakes and dishes from different parts of the world like pasta, pizza, chole kulche, nachos, sandwiches and and then some savoury snacks like Makhni Punjabi Pasta and Sandwiches for quick bites. As a part of their expansion, they have also added beverages to their menu & many more mouthwatering dishes.

The variety of 100% vegetarian customer cakes are available in different types like Number cake, Cartoon Cake, Cup Cake, Multi-Tier Cake and Photo Cake.

They guarantee you with respect to the structure of cakes loaded with cream, which is sufficient to make you hungry. Mr Crust Bakers duplicates your energy. In this way, its difficult to trust that a couple of more minutes will cut a cake. When they convey your request they give a cake, as well as they convey joy, rapture, and feelings related to it. Everybody needs to be upbeat and they feel that it is their pleasure to fulfil everybody rather we would state it is our side interest or custom.

Customers satisfaction is the only thing they crave for. Their main motto and mission are to have a satisfied customer, so they give their best to take care of their customers. They make sure that all the requests done by their customers are fulfilled, they make sure even the minimal one is not neglected. They always work hard to bring the customers imagination to the table in front of him.

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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.
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. is calling off an initial public offering for its Cainiao logistics arm, shelving a much-anticipated debut that could have raised more than $1 billion. A man walks past Alibaba Group's logo at its office building in Beijing, China.(Reuters)

Chinas e-commerce pioneer decided to postpone the transaction because of poor market conditions, people familiar with the matter said. It lost its taste for the deal this year as stocks waned, the people said, asking to remain anonymous discussing a private matter. Alibaba could choose to revive the IPO should markets recover, they added.

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Its the second time Alibaba has nixed a high-profile coming-out party for one of its main businesses. In 2023, the Chinese internet firm stunned the market when it called off a listing of its $11 billion cloud unit. Cainiao Smart Logistics Network Ltd., which handles a major chunk of the millions of parcels that Alibabas e-commerce business generates daily, was considered one of its fastest-growing enterprises.

Last year, Alibaba also put plans to debut its Freshippo grocery chain on the backburner. Its retreat coincides with growing uncertainty in public markets as Beijing grapples with a property crisis, loss of foreign investor confidence and the resultant economic downturn. At the same time, domestically oriented businesses are struggling to grow their topline because of waning consumer confidence.

Alibaba is still grappling with fundamental questions surrounding the once-dominant internet company  a barometer of Chinese demand. Its performance underscored a loss of market share to rivals such as PDD and ByteDance Ltd. It posted a lower-than-projected 5% rise in December quarter revenue to 260.3 billion yuan ($36.2 billion), well off the pace of previous years.

Fueling the uncertainty, the company is going through a complicated multi-way split intended to create several independent businesses and rejuvenate the national icon. The company last year outlined plans to float its Freshippo grocery chain and Cainiao logistics arm. But Chairman Joseph Tsai last month appeared to soften its stance on those plans, saying it was in no hurry to float Cainiao because challenging market conditions would prevent it from reaping fair value.

Cainiao filed for its IPO about six months ago in September. Alibaba  which after years of frenetic investment now controls a vast portfolio of assets  is now actively looking to sell off some of those non-core holdings, he added. Its exploring ways to offload the InTime department store chain and other retail operations, Bloomberg News has reported.
Elon Musk said that his artificial intelligence startup xAI's chatbot Grok will be enabled for all premium subscribers of his social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He announced the development on X without revealing any more details. Earlier, the chatbot was available only to X Premium subscribers. This comes after Elon musk said that xAI would open-source Grok after he sued OpenAI for allegedly abandoning its original mission in favor of a for-profit model. Tesla and SpaceX's CEO Elon Musk looks on, during an in-conversation event. Grok was unveiled last year by Elon Musk.(AP)

Grok was unveiled last year by the multi-billionaire as he attempts to compete with OpenAI that he helped to create in 2015 along with its CEO Sam Altman. Elon Musk left OpenAI a few years later.

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Grok open-source

Aiming to give public free access to experiment with the code behind the technology, Grok will be open-sourced as per Elon Musk. This is also similar to Meta and France's Mistral, both of which have open-source AI models.

"This week, @xAI will open source Grok," Elon Musk said in a post on X earlier joining companies such as Meta who have supported an open source system in which researchers and other companies can access the technology's inner workings and thereby develop new products or innovations. In December, Meta, IBM and dozens of startups and researchers launched an alliance defending more open and collaborative AI.

Secrecy around AI models

Although, OpenAI and Google support a higher level of secrecy in order to protect technology from bad actors. Elon Musk even said in a post that he would drop his case if OpenAI changed its name to ClosedAI.

OpenAI vs Elon Musk

Sam Altman's company has argued that Elon Musk's case is personal- an classic case of sour grapes after leaving the company.

"Seeing the remarkable technological advances OpenAI has achieved, Musk now wants that success for himself," OpenAI said in a court filing, adding, Musk purports to bring this suit for humanity when the truth -- evident even from the face of Musk's contradictory pleading -- is that he brings it to advance his own commercial interests.
Daniel Kahneman, a psychologist whose work casting doubt on the rationality of decision-making helped spawn the field of behavioral economics and won him a Nobel Prize, has died. He was 90. Economist and psychologist Daniel Kahneman(File)

He died on Wednesday, the Washington Post reported, citing his stepdaughter, Deborah Treisman, the fiction editor for the New Yorker. No other details were available.

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Kahneman upended assumptions about rationality that had dominated economics for decades. He was able to show the logic behind a number of puzzling behaviors  why people refuse to sell stocks that have lost value, or why they will drive to a distant store to save money on a small item, but not to make the same saving on an expensive one.

Kahneman was the worlds most influential living psychologist, Harvard University professor Steven Pinker told the Guardian in 2014. His work is really monumental in the history of thought.

Working with psychologist Amos Tversky, Kahneman isolated biases that distort decision-making. These include aversion to loss and how the way a question is framed can affect the answer. For example, if a health program will save 200 lives and result in 400 deaths, whether its accepted may depend on whether its proponents highlight the lives saved or the lives lost.

Kahneman said that the brain reacts quickly and on the basis of incomplete information, often with unfortunate results. People are designed to tell the best story possible, he said in a 2012 interview with the American Psychological Association. We dont spend much time saying, Well, there is much we dont know. We make do with what we do know.

Under the rubric prospect theory, Kahneman and Tversky sparked a revolution in psychology and then in economics, which had seldom been considered an experimental science. The field of behavioral economics arose near the end of the 20th century as a group of young economists used their insights to challenge classical notions of homo economicus, the rational actor.

Cognitive Minefield

In 2011, Kahneman published the bestselling Thinking, Fast and Slow, finding a wide audience for his ideas. The study presented a comprehensive view of the mind as containing two systems, one fast and intuitive, the other slow and more rational. It offered advice for making better decisions, starting with: Recognize the signs that you are a cognitive minefield.

Daniel Kahneman was born on March 5, 1934, in Tel Aviv, where his mother was visiting relatives. The family lived in France, having emigrating there from Lithuania. His father, a Jewish chemist, was arrested because of his religion during World War II, then released. After the war, the family moved to Palestine.

Kahneman received a bachelors degree in psychology from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem in 1954. Later that year, he joined the Israel Defense Forces, where he was assigned to the psychology branch and put in charge of evaluating recruits. The system he developed was used for decades, he wrote in his Nobel Prize autobiography.

He received a Ph.D. from the University of California at Berkeley in 1961 and returned to the Hebrew University to teach in the psychology department. In 1969, he met Tversky, who became his collaborator for over a decade in his Nobel Prize-winning work.

Amos and I shared the wonder of together owning a goose that could lay golden eggs  a joint mind that was better than our separate minds, Kahneman wrote. I have probably shared more than half the laughs of my life with Amos.

Ultimatum Game

Their collaboration produced papers, books and innovative experiments such as the ultimatum game, in which a person is given money on the condition that they share it with a second person. Typically, the second person will not take less than a 20% or 30% share, even though it would be rational to accept any amount.

The close partnership between Kahneman and Tversky became more widely known with the 2016 publication of Michael Lewiss The Undoing Project.

Kahneman had appointments at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver and at Berkeley. In 1993, he moved to Princeton University in New Jersey, where he was a psychology professor and also taught at the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs.

In later years he studied happiness  more technically, hedonics: things that make experiences pleasant or unpleasant, and how to measure that. One notable finding was that wealthy people were rarely happier than those with lower incomes, challenging the idea that money buys happiness.

Kahneman shared the 2002 Nobel Prize with Vernon Smith, another experimental economist.

Kahneman and his wife, Irah Kahn, had two children: Michael and Lenore. The couple divorced, and he later married psychologist Anne Treisman, who died in 2018.
Tata Group may push several initial public offerings (IPOs) in the next two to three years. The conglomerate has not opened a public issue in the past two decades but could reportedly launch some IPOs aiming to fuel growth and provide exit options for select investors, Economic Times reported quoting executives in the know. Tata group has not opened a public issue in the past two decades but could reportedly launch some IPOs.(Reuters)

Which Tata Group companies could release IPOs?

Tata Capital, Tata Autocomp Systems, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, BigBasket, Tata Digital, Tata Electronics, Tata Housing and Tata Batteries are among the companies that are being prepared for IPOs, the report claimed as Tata Group is aiming to expand new-age sectors like digital, retail, semiconductors and electric vehicle batteries.

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As per the report, a person in the know said, The decision to approach the capital markets is always strategic, and not really a plan to rush into an IPO for the sake of it.

Why is Tata Group looking into IPO options?

Meanwhile, an executive told the outlet, Many of the businesses seeded over 20 or 25 years ago are now in a growth phase and in shape to be monetised. Also, calculated decisions are being taken by specific companies in discussions with Tata Sons. It will be with a purpose either to offer exit opportunities to existing investors or unlock value. But there are no deadlines; decisions will be well thought out.

A former group director said as per the report, "Earlier, there was a conscious strategy to focus on overseas growth through acquisitions. A shift has happened where the growth is India focused largely. The group is taking bold bets on businesses that can scale up. But I do not see there will be a dramatic rush for IPOs by the group."

The report also added that Tata Groups is considering the listing of financial arm Tata Capital next year to comply with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) norms.
Chinese president Xi Jinping met representatives of US businesses as the country seeks more foreign investment aiming to reassure American firms amid a slowing economy. The Chinese president hosted the group of executives at Beijing's Great Hall of the People, state broadcaster CCTV reported. Xi Jinping was seen talking to the attendees who included Cristiano Amon, CEO of Qualcomm, a major producer of semiconductors. The meeting follows a dinner in November where Xi Jinping met with US executives in San Francisco and even received a standing ovation. Chinese President Xi Jinping adjusts his jacket during the closing session of the National People's Congress held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.(AP)

Who was in attendance?

Stephen Schwarzman, CEO of private equity giant Blackstone was also in attendance as Xi Jinping said, Differences will always exist, because people are different, and even people from the same family are different, too. But we should seek common ground and build more consensus. This is true between nations and as well as between family members.

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What Xi Jinping said on China-US relations?

Xi Jinping said that "the history of China-US relations is a history of friendly exchanges between the two peoples. People from all walks of life in both countries should have more exchanges and more cooperation."

Was Apple CEO Tim Cook present?

Photos did not indicate the presence of Apple CEO Tim Cook who recently visited China and opened a new Apple store in Shanghai. He also made an appearance with other top executives at the China Development Forum in Beijing where he said, I think China's really opening up, and I'm so happy to be here.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who scripted a thumping win for the Congress in last year's Assembly elections, is optimistic that his party will win at least 20 out of 28 Lok Sabha seats in the State in the upcoming general elections. Karnataka DCM DK Shivakumar (PTI)(HT_PRINT)

The Congress leader, who is referred to as DKS has also claimed that JDS-BJP alliance is "not working well" in the state.

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In the 2019 general election, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 26 of the 28 seats in the state. The Congress and JD(S), which were running a coalition government back then and fought the elections together, secured one seat each. It was a dismal performance for the Congress in the 2019 general election compared to the 9 seats it had won in the 2014 Lok Sabha election.

READ | BJP, JD(S) leaders' joint coordination meeting for LS polls on March 29

However, the party under the DKS leadership swept up 135 of the 224 seats in the Karnataka Assembly polls in 2023.

In an exclusive conversation with ANI, the Congress leader who is the current president of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) said, "See, we work collectively. In the last three years, I have had the opportunity to be president. Now it is the fourth year. So, all of them cooperated. I believe in the collective leadership that we showed. Whatever we had, we still thought the party had to come to power."

"Now, as far as Parliament (elections) are concerned, we are still hoping...," Shivakumar said.

READ | DK Shivakumar accuses Centre of stepmotherly treatment to Karnataka over development funds

"We wanted a lot of our ministers to contest. But all of them wanted to stay in state politics. Now, I am still hoping that we will get nearly 20 seats," the veteran Congress leader said.

Asked about an apparent 'Modi wave' and the reluctuance of Karnataka Congress ministers to fight parliament elections, DKS said "It is not like that. As far as Karnataka is concerned, any wave will not work. The Bharatiya Janata Party is crumbling. You know how many MPs--almost 10 MPs--could not get tickets. There was a lot of anti-incumbency."

The BJP, he said, is in "very bad shape" in Karnataka.

"They (the BJP) have changed and shifted the MPs and ministers. So, I think, compared to other parts of the country, the BJP is in very bad shape in Karnataka," claimed Shivakumar.

Referring to a statement by the former Chief Minister and JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy, Shivakumar said, "You see the statement of Mr Kumaraswamy yesterday has not been taken well. He has come out openly. All these things are there. Their alliance is not working well. People will not accept that alliance."

Shivakumar reiterated his confidence in the people's mandate for the Congress party.

READ | Bengaluru bus conductor slaps woman passenger; suspended | Video

"I am confident that with the way we look at local issues, we look at the local problems, When we do hard work, we have to look at the people's wishes, the problem of the people. Then they should have confidence on us. That is why they vote us. Otherwise, it will not happen."

Voting for Lok Sabha constituencies in Karnataka will take place in two phases on April 26 and May 7.

In 2019, the BJP won 25 seats with a vote share of 51.7 per cent. Congress won 1 seat with a 32.1 per cent vote share, while JD(S) and Independent won one seat each in Karnataka.

The general election for 543 Lok Sabha seats will be held in seven phases starting April 19, with counting to be held on June 4. Karnataka has a total of 28 Lok Sabha constituencies, including five seats reserved for SC candidates and two for ST candidates. Voting across all seats in Karnataka will be held in the second and third phases of the elections on April 26 and May 7 respectively.
A joint coordination meeting of both BJP and JD(S) leaders has been called on March 29 in Bengaluru to ensure that there is proper understanding between leaders and workers of both parties in the run-up to the Lok Sabha polls, JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy said on Tuesday. BJP's Pralhad Joshi and Basavaraj Bommai with Janata Dal (Secular) Karnataka President HD Kumaraswamy.(ANI)

JD(S) joined the NDA last September and has forged an electoral alliance with the BJP in Karnataka and as per arrangement JD(S) will be contesting in three seats --Mandya, Hassan and Kolar.

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READ | BJP, JD(S) workers clash casts shadow on vote transfer between allies in Karnataka

"I spoke to the state BJP President B Y Vijayendra over phone regarding calling a coordination meeting of both BJP and JD(S) leaders on March 29, so there is proper understanding between both party workers from top to bottom in all the 28 Lok Sabha constituencies," Kumaraswamy said.

Speaking to reporters here, he said, there should not be a repeat of the mistakes that happened when JD(S) was in alliance with Congress in the past.

READ | EC asks Karnataka poll officer to take immediate action on complaint by Deve Gowda on freebies

"With trust between both parties (BJP-JD(S)), the campaigning should happen with ease...to ensure that a meeting has been called on March 29 which will be attended by more than hundred leaders from both parties," he added.

JD(S) had earlier formed governments in coalition with Congress for 14 months from May 2018, with Kumaraswamy as the Chief Minister. Both parties had fought the 2019 Lok Sabha polls together and got just one seat each, while BJP bagged 25 seats and even ensured that an independent supported by it won in Mandya.

READ | People will slap Congress leaders through voting: Bommai hits back at Shivaraj Tangadagi's remark

According to political observers, for the BJP-JD(S) alliance to click, it goes without saying that ground level coordination and understanding among their workers and transfer of votes to each other are essential, which did not happen in the case of the regional party's alliance with Congress.

Kumaraswamy said there will be a joint coordination committee and workers' meeting of both parties from Mysuru and Chamarajanagar Lok Sabha constituencies in Mysuru on Wednesday.

"I will be participating in this meeting. It will be attended by BJP leaders too," he said, adding that similar meetings will be held in Koppal and Tumakuru and directions have been issued to other districts too to organise such meetings.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers on Tuesday gheraoed Bharatiya Janata Party offices in Haryana against the arrest of party supremo and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with a money laundering case linked to now scrapped excise policy. Dhanda said that the Election Commission remained a mute spectator and Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials are working at the behest of BJP leaders. (Manoj Dhaka/HT)

In Rohtak, partys Haryana unit senior vice-president Anurag Dhanda led the protest outside the BJP office. The party workers, including Dhanda, wore helmets to condemn police action on protesting AAP workers outside Haryana CM Nayab Singh Sainis residence in Kurukshetra last week.

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Dhanda said that the Election Commission remained a mute spectator and Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials are working at the behest of BJP leaders.

There is anger among people over the manner in which an honest chief minister was arrested during the night hours. No jail can keep Kejriwal behind for a long time. The people will teach a lesson to this arrogant Union government in general polls, he added.

Dhanda said the BJP has built big party offices in the countrys district by taking corruption amount in the form of electoral bonds.

The medicine companies whose samples failed were given again permission to continue their functioning as they had given money to BJP in the form of electoral bonds. A person like Naveen Jindal, who faced coal scam allegations was given a BJP ticket from Kurukshetra. The others accused like Hemanta Biswa Sarma, Ajit Pawar and money others who were facing serious corruption charges were never interrogated by ED as they are supporting BJP, he added.

The AAP workers were detained in Fatehabad, Hisar and some other parts and were later released in the evening.
With peace returning to Indo-Pak border since the renewed truce deal of November 2021 between the two nuke countries, tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir can now have the feel of border life. Buoyed by the initiatives of the administration, 32-year-old Sunny Choudhary, a B.Tech in computer sciences, has come up with a homestay at Dagh village, barely 2 km from zero line. (HT Photo)

The Samba district administration in consonance with tourism department has launched a slew of initiatives to promote border tourism.

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From homestays to rejuvenation of historical shrines and new road networks, the Samba administration has been focusing on initiatives that attract tourists to the Indo-Pak border.

Buoyed by the initiatives of the administration, 32-year-old Sunny Choudhary, a B.Tech in computer sciences, has come up with a homestay at Dagh village, barely 2 km from zero line.

During annual Baba Chamliyal mela, tourism cooperative society, of which I am a member, informed us about homestays and coined the idea. Since we had constructed a new house, I carved a homestay out of it and named it Smriti homestay, he said.

It has Wi-Fi, a gym, hygienically home cooked food and a pollution-free border life, he added.

The J&K administration recently consented for the construction of homestays in the vicinity of the Baba Chamliyal shrine in Ramgarh sector to boost border tourism.

Choudharys homestay also has air-conditioned rooms.

Former Sarpanch of Jerda village, Mohan Singh Bhatti has also refurbished a bunker in the verandah of his house for the tourists, who would like to have a feel of living inside a bunker.

During Indo-Pak skirmishes, the villagers take refuge in these bunkers, which were sanctioned by the Centre and constructed by the public works department.

I have refurbished a bunker in my house for the tourists to have a feel of it. We are ready to welcome the tourists. We will provide them with a home-like atmosphere with home-cooked food, said the septuagenarian.

These villages are barely one to two km from the zero line. Pakistanis on other side of the border can be seen farming and tending to daily chores.

Bhatti also informed that a community bunker in his village was well-maintained and equipped with modern facilities.

In the past, peace was fragile here. Our houses are literally on the zero line. Whenever Pakistan opened fire and shot mortars, we took shelter in these bunkers. They are life saviours for us. Tourists can have a feel of it, he said.

Samba district has 55-km-long border with Pakistan with around 40 villages meandering along it.

Samba deputy magistrate Abhishek Sharma said, The government has accorded priority to border tourism. We took some initiatives around six months back with an aim to develop a border tourist circuit.

He informed that as part of border tourism promotion, the administration has been reviving historical shrines which are 500 to 200 years old.

We are also roping in entrepreneurial farmers and youth to become tour guides. We are also encouraging homestays. The administration has also reached out to the BSF for allowing tourists for sight-seeing and to visit their posts. The BSF is also keen on it, said Sharma.

To hook them, we are integrating facilities and within two months they will be in place. These initiatives would also improve socio-economic condition of the border populace, said Sharma.
Accusing the BJP government of backtracking from its promise of extending safeguards guaranteed under the sixth schedule of the Constitution to Ladakh, noted environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk, on Tuesday, reminded the people ballot power and urged them to use it very carefully in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. Sonam Wangchuk, an engineer turned educational reformist calls off his hunger strike in Leh, Ladakh, on Tuesday. The hunger strike was for the statehood of Ladakh and the protection of the fragile Himalayan ecology. (ANI)

On 21st day of his fast-unto-death at martyrs memorial park in Leh, the frail and fragile looking environmentalist yet again tried to remind the BJP government of its promises made to the people of Ladakh.

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We are trying to remind and awaken the conscience of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and home minister Amit Shah to safeguard the fragile ecosystems of the Himalayan mountains of Ladakh and the unique indigenous tribal cultures that thrive here, he said in his video message on X.

We dont want to think of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah as just politicians. We would rather like to think of them as statesman but for that they will have to show some character and far-sightedness, he said while drawing differences between a politician and a statesman.

A politician thinks of the next election, but a statesman thinks of the next generation, he said.

We hope that our leaders will show some statesmanship and farsightedness when it comes to especially fragile zones like Himalayas and other eco-sensitive zones within the country, he added.

With no response whatsoever of the BJP government to the 21-day long climate fast, the noted environmentalist reminded the people of power of ballot.

India is the mother of democracy and we the citizens have a very special power. We are the king makers. We can compel a government to change their ways or change the government if that doesnt work. So, lets remember to use our ballot power very carefully this time in the interest of the nation, he concluded.

Around 350 people slept with Wangchuk the preceding night in minus 10-degree Celsius temperature and around 5,000 joined him during the day on Tuesday.

We need statesmen of integrity, farsightedness & wisdom in this country & not just shortsighted characterless politicians. And I very much hope that @narendramodi ji & @AmitShah ji will soon prove that they are statesmen, he posted on X.

The people of Ladakh are demanding safeguards under sixth schedule of the Indian Constitution and statehood to the Himalayan region.

The talks between the Centre and a sub-committee of the leaders from Ladakh recently failed.

Going by the undercurrent, the region, which has one Lok Sabha seat, may either witness a boycott of the ensuing general elections or boycott of the BJP by the people, who are seething in anger over what they called, betrayal by the BJP government.

A high-powered committee (HPC) headed by Union minister Nityanand Rai had constituted a sub-committee to discuss the demands of 6th schedule, statehood and allied issues.

The sub-committee had Buddhist spiritual leader and former BJP MP, Thupstan Chhewang, Chhering Dorje alias Lakrook and Nawang Rigzin Jora, all from Leh Apex Body (LAB), Qamar Ali Akhoon, Asgar Ali Karbalai and Sajjad Hussain alias Sajjad Kargili from Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA).
Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah is likely to contest the Lok Sabha polls from North Kashmirs Baramulla. Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah may enter the Lok Sabha race. (HT File)

National Conference district committee has sent a panel of three names to the party high command for shortlisting of candidates for the Lok Sabha seat and Omars name figures on top. The others on the list include former NC ministers.

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Party sources said most leaders want Omar to contest from Baramulla, with a senior leader who is also part of the district committee, saying, We have requested party high command that Omar Abdullah should contest from Baramulla and most likely he will be the partys candidate.

With 11.47 lakh voters, Baramulla seat is spread over 16 assembly segments of four districts Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora and Budgam.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had won the seat in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, but NC wrested it in 2019, with party candidate Akbar Lone winning with a margin of more than 30,000 votes over Peoples Conferences Raja Ajaz.

This time, Peoples Conference has fielded party chairperson Sajjad Lone from the seat, intensifying the battle. Omars entry into the fray then could turn it into a prestige battle for both.

If Omar also files his papers from Baramulla, its going to be a very interesting fight between two young leaders of J&K who have been vocal against each other. While Sajjad Lone has an advantage of Home turf, Omar will be backed by strong ground level leaders. And both the parties have strong cadre in almost all segments, Omar Ahmad, a political analyst said.

A senior leader of National Conference said Omars candidature will energise NC cadres across north Kashmir.

Lone and Omar have exchanged barbs on various issues. Recently, without naming him, Omar told reporters that Lone could have been behind Engineer Rashids detention. This was the first time when the leader openly advocated release of Sheikh Abdul Rashid alias Engineer Rashid, who has also decided to contest Lok Sabha polls from Baramulla.

Rashid, who contested 2019 Lok Sabha polls as an independent candidate, managed to secure more than one lakh votes. And his entry into polls could dent Lones prospects as the two compete for clout in the Kupwara segment. Rashid is a two time former legislator from Langate in Kupwara district. Since 2019, he has been in jail on charges of funding terror activities.

Omar, who has recently insisted that his party was a part of the INDIA bloc, but refuses to cede any space for alliance partners in Kashmir.
The Delhi Assembly witnessed a pandemonium on Wednesday as ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs resorted to protests and trooped into the well of the House, raising slogans against the arrest of chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, while the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators launched a counter-protest, demanding Kejriwals resignation. The House was adjourned twice and is scheduled to resume at 11am on April 1. The AAP MLAs, wearing t-shirts with a message Mai Bhi Kejriwal, protested in the assembly premises and raised slogans (Video grab/ANI)

The session, the first one to be held after Kejriwals arrest in the Delhi excise policy case, was called to take up a discussion on the shortage of medicines in hospitals and mohalla clinics in the city.. Health minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has directed chief secretary Naresh Kumar to submit a report in the House, listing the current status of the availability of medicines and diagnostic tests in hospitals and mohalla clinics.

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The Assembly sitting was scheduled to begin at 11am but began at 11.30 due to protests by the AAP legislators, and it was adjourned for 15 minutes as soon as it convened. The House resumed at 11.50am but soon the AAP MLAs trooped into the well of the House.

Speaker Ram Niwas Goel made repeated appeals to the MLAs to let the House function. However, it went unheard. Later, the Speaker adjourned the sitting of the House till April 1.

The AAP MLAs, wearing t-shirts with a message Mai Bhi Kejriwal, protested in the assembly premises and raised slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The assembly session has been called for the first time after the arrest of CM Arvind Kejriwal, so definitely they will raise a voice against his arrest, said AAP minister Gopal Rai.

Bharadwaj said, We oppose the dictatorship of the BJP. They are conducting raids against our people even though elections have been announced. Four of our top leaders are in jail. They (BJP govt) have crossed the limits of dictatorship. They are trying to topple the AAP government, we will keep fighting.

No immediate response from the BJP was available. The story will be updated when the party responds.

Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) last week in connection with the money laundering case linked to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy and has been remanded to ED custody till March 28. He has challenged his arrest in the Delhi high court. The court will take up the matter later in the day.
Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwals insistence on running the government from jail may eventually lead to the imposition of Presidents Rule as an elected chief minister has multifold tasks, all of which cannot be practically performed while in custody, said legal and constitutional experts.

ED officials taking Kejriwal to the agencys headquarters hours after arresting him. (ANI)
Kolkata: Swami Smaranananda Maharaj, president of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, died in Kolkata on Monday evening. He was 95 and suffering from age-related ailments, the mission said in a statement. Swami Smaranananda Maharaj became the 16th president of the order in 2017. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Ramakrishna Mission president Swami Smaranananda Maharaj. (PTI file)

He will be cremated at Belur Math on Tuesday.

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He was admitted at a south Kolkata hospital run by the Mission. On March 5, while on his second visit to Bengal this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi went to the hospital to inquire about his health.

After his demise, the prime minister offered his condolence in a message on X.

Srimat Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj, the revered President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission dedicated his life to spirituality and service. He left an indelible mark on countless hearts and minds. His compassion and wisdom will continue to inspire generations. I had a very close relation with him over the years. I recall my visit to Belur Math in 2020 when I had interacted with him. A few weeks ago, in Kolkata, I had also visited the hospital and enquired about his health. My thoughts are with the countless devotees of the Belur Math. Om Shanti, Modi wrote.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee also offered her condolence.

She wrote, Deeply saddened at the news of the demise tonight of Srimat Swami Smarananandaji Maharaj, the revered president of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. This great monk during his lifetime has given spiritual leadership to the world order of the Ramakrishnaites and remains the source of solace for millions of devotees across the globe. I convey my deepest condolence to all his fellow monks, followers and devotees.

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party president JP Nadda also expressed his heartfelt condolences, saying that he was extremely saddened by the passing away of Srimat Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj.
Bigg Boss 17 winner Munawar Faruqui and 13 others were detained after a raid at a hookah bar in Mumbai's Fort area, a police official said on Wednesday, adding that all the accused were later released as the sections slapped against them were bailable. Munawar Faruqui has been focussing on his music career lately.

Also Read: Munawar Faruqui shares first post after police detained and released him following Mumbai hookah bar raid

The raid was conduced by Mumbai Police's Social Service branch at 10:30pm on Tuesday at a hookah parlour in Bora Bazar, the official further said, adding that the operation continued till 5am on Wednesday.

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"The police found stand-up comedian Munawar Faruqui and others smoking hookahs at the joint. We also have a video of their act. We detained them, but they were later allowed to go as the sections slapped against them were bailable," a senior officer told PTI.

The raid was carried out after police received a tip-off that some patrons were smoking tobacco-based hookahs at the parlour in the guise of smoking herbal hookahs, he said.

Faruqui and his co-accused have been booked under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), along with the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 283 (danger or obstruction in public way or line of navigation), 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others).

Notices were served to those detained by the Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Marg police and they were allowed to go.
Union minister for transport and national highway, Nitin Gadkari, on Wednesday filed his nomination papers from Maharashtras Nagpur constituency as today was the last day for filing of papers ahead of the Lok Sabha polls beginning April 19. Gadkari is seeking a third term in Lok Sabha from Nagpur. (Sunny Shende | HT)

Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde, deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, NCP leader Praful Patel, state BJP chief Chandrashekhar Banwankule, and leaders from RPI and Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) were also present at the district collectorate on Wednesday afternoon when Gadkari submitted his nomination papers before the returning officer, Vipin Itankar.

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Also Read: Will Nitin Gadkaris sons join politics? Heres what Union minister said

Seeking a third term in Lok Sabha from Nagpur, a constituency housing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh headquarters, Gadkaris candidacy holds significant weight within the ruling party, signaling its intent to strengthen its position in the state.

Raju Parwe, a sitting Congress MLA, also filed his nomination papers alongside Gadkari after being nominated by Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) from Ramtek constituency.

Gadkari is pitted against Congress candidate Vikas Thakre, a vocal sitting MLA and Nagpur city Congress president.
The high court in London on Wednesday gave permission to sell a prime property belonging to Nirav Modis family trust for not less than 5.25 million (approximately 55 crore). The order came after the court traversed through a complex tangle of trust rules that are used by high net worth individuals to escape scrutiny and tax liabilities. Nirav Modi appeared from Thameside prison through video conferencing. London court allows sale of Nirav Modis property

The property in question was purchased in December 2017 for 6.25 million (approximately 60 crore) by Trident Trust Company (Singapore) whose ultimate beneficiaries were members of the Nirav Modi family. Two high end real estate agents have been scouting for buyers and the proceeds, once realised, will go to Nirav Modis creditors.

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The 4,079 square feet duplex apartment is situated close to Baker Street station and came under scanner after Nirav Modis downfall following the Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam. On paper, the property was shown to be owned by Purvi Modi, Niravs sister. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), meanwhile, had maintained that the ultimate beneficiary and control was with Nirav Modi. However, as the ED probed the exact ownership and sale of the property in the London court, Nirav Modi turned around to admit that it was not Purvi, but he himself who had purchased the property.

The ED represented by Harish Salve, Kings Counsel and assisted by Chintan Chandrachud told the court that they oppose any payments to be made to Nirav Modi upon the conclusion of the sale. Salve told the court that ED does not want the property to be put on auction and realise less money. Hence, the ED was fine with the sale of the property which would realise a fair amount and the proceeds to be given in accordance with the law. Nirav Modi owes money to the HMRC (UK tax authority) which could ultimately auction the property to recover the due.

The same family trust, which owns the London property, also operated a bank account in Geneva which had $12 million, which is now frozen. It is to be noted that Nirav Modi has been facing a magistrates court in the UK over non-payment of legal dues and promised that he would pay through monthly instalments. In this case he managed to get a solicitor  BCL Solicitors LLP - to represent him. The case was heard before Master Brightwell.

Firestar Diamond, the company owned by Nirav, went bankrupt in 2018, and Nirav Modi has been in prison in the UK since 2019, but that has not stopped investigators to go after assets belonging to him and his key associates. Mihir Bhansali, the former chief executive of Firestar Diamond, has come under scanner after Richard Levin the trustee responsible for liquidating Firestar has alleged that Bhansali transferred his interest in a New York residence to his wife to keep it away from creditors.
MUMBAI: The Mumbai polices crime branch has arrested two persons for allegedly duping hundreds of job seekers across India by offering them high-paying jobs in Thailand. The duo  identified as Jerry Philips Jacob, the mastermind, and his associate Godfrey Thomas Alvaris  were arrested on Monday after they arrived in Mumbai from Laos, where they had been staying since 2021. They were produced in court on Tuesday and remanded in police custody till March 30. HT Image

Jacob was on the radar of central agencies and the Mumbai police had kept close watch on him and his associate prior to their arrest owing to over 50 complaints against them, said Lakhmi Gautam, joint commissioner of police, Mumbai crime branch.

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The duo sourced recruits through placement agencies across India, transported them to Bangkok with the help of Chinese nationals and took away their passports once they reached the destination. Recruits were then taken to the neighbouring Laos by boat and made to work in fake call centres that duped American and British nationals by asking them to invest in cryptocurrency, said Gautam.

Siddharth Yadav, 23, a resident of Wagle Estate in Thane, narrated the modus operandi of the accused in detail in his complaint to the police, based on which the crime branch registered an FIR against Jacob, Alvaris and a third accused known as Sunny, a placement agent. Jacob and Alvaris were arrested in connection with this case.

In his complaint, Yadav said he was searching for a job in 2022 when he met an agent named Rohit, who told him that Jacob was looking for employees for a call centre in Thailand that sold cryptocurrency. He was promised a salary of 65,000 per month and asked to leave India on December 30, 2022. Yadav paid the agent 50,000 to get the job and booked two flight tickets as per instructions  one from Mumbai to Bangkok and the other from Bangkok to Chiang Rai, a city near the borders of Laos and Myanmar. A Chinese national received him in Chiang Rai and dropped him at the immigration centre along the Laos border. Another Chinese received him and other Indian recruits, mainly from Punjab and Delhi, there, collected their passports and took them to Laos on a boat.

Yadav and the other recruits were taken to the Golden Triangle, a mountainous region straddling northeastern Myanmar, northwestern Thailand, and northern Laos, said a police officer. Godfrey and Sunny, whom they met at this location, gave them computers and iPhones and asked them to create fake accounts using names of US, Canadian and European women on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

The recruits had to chat with the victims, befriend them and lure them into investing in cryptocurrency by downloading an application on their phone. The application showed double money available in the investors account, but did not allow them to withdraw any money, said the police officer.

While Yadav didnt get any salary for the work, his conscience didnt allow him to cheat others. He asked the men running the racket to return his passport so he could return to India. But they demanded a hefty fine. Finally, he and others wrote to the Indian Embassy, after which they were assaulted and asked to withdraw their complaints, said the police officer.

When the local police visited the spot following the intervention of the embassy, they found 30 workers trapped under harsh conditions, tortured and asked to pay fines for leaving the job. Four workers including Yadav were deported to India.
KOLKATA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Centre is seeking legal opinion to ensure that 3,000 crore looted from the poor in West Bengal and attached by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is returned to them. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a telephonic conversation with BJP candidate from Krishanagar Lok Sabha candidate on Wednesday. (ANI)

According to an audio clip of PM Modis conversation with Amrita Roy, the BJP candidate from Nadia districts Krishnanagar, the prime minister referred to the bribe-for-job scam in the state education department that is being investigated by ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

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I am seeking legal advice. ED has attached around 3,000 crore in Bengal. This money belongs to poor people. Some gave money to get appointed as teachers. Some paid to get a clerks job. It is my wish that legal provisions be made or laws introduced once the new government is formed so that this 3,000 crore is given back to those who gave it as bribes. Please tell this to the public, PM Modi told Roy who is pitted against Trinamool Congresss Mahua Moitra, according to the audio clip released by the BJP.

PM Modi said eradicating corruption was the principal agenda of the BJP.

These days, the battle is between two groups. On one side, we are taking steps to eradicate corruption from this country while our opponents are getting united to save the corrupt. Even those who voiced charges of corruption are now trying to save the corrupt. The nation is not the priority for these people. Their priority is to stay in power, Modi said.

Our target in this election is to have a corruption-free India so that the young generation can have a bright future, Modi added.

Eminent lawyer and CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya, who is representing eligible candidates deprived of jobs because of the scam, said the PM was misleading people.

There is no legal provision which allows money unearthed during an investigation to be returned. Whose money is it? If Modi is so serious about returning money, then why doesnt he return the amount received through electoral bonds that the Supreme Court has declared unconstitutional, Bhattacharya said.

Amrita Roy, the candidate who received PM Modis phone call, joined the BJP on March 20 and is among the 19 candidates announced by the party in its second list for West Bengal on Sunday evening.

Roy is a member of the erstwhile royal family of Krishnanagar and has been pitted against Mahua Moitra, the firebrand TMC leader who won the seat in 2019. She was expelled from the Lok Sabha in December last year in connection with the cash-for-query case.

Roys candidature was announced by BJP hours after CBI raided Moitras properties in Kolkata and Nadia.

Roy mentioned Moitra during the conversation.

When I ask people what will happen to Mahua Moitra, they say she is bound to land in jail, Roy told the PM.

TMC spokesperson Santanu Sen said the ED action against Mahua Moitra was part of the BJPs political vendetta against opposition parties to disturb their campaign, a charge refuted by the BJP.

Bengal BJPs chief spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya said: Federal agencies may summon anybody at any point in time. This is part of their investigation and has nothing to do with BJP. Our partys victory at Krishnanagar does not depend on summons sent to Mahua Moitra.
Seven persons, including three women, have been arrested after a mob allegedly thrashed a 38-year-old woman from Nepal on suspicion of child lifting and assaulted the on-duty police personnel who tried to rescue her in Assams Dima Hasao district on Tuesday evening, officials said. Three police personnel sustained injuries in the mob attack, (Representative Image)

Superintendent of police (SP), Dima Hasao, Mayank Kumar, said that three police personnel sustained injuries and one of them has been sent to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in critical condition.

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According to police, the woman, identified as Kamala Dahal, who came from Nepal to meet her younger sister in Haflong in Assam, was attacked after she gave chocolates to a child whom she met on the streets of Lower Haflong when she was on an evening walk.

Onlookers said that Kamala initially gave the kid some chocolates and fruit juice, but it looked suspicious when she tried to give some cash to the kid. Some people started shouting against her and others joined, an eyewitness said.

After the incident, Dahal was taken to Haflong Civil Hospital for treatment. Her family members reached the hospital and lodged a complaint at Haflong Police Station.

The arrested persons have been identified as Priya Naiding, Rami Hojai, Nipo Jidung, Sonima Sengyung, Projen Kemprai, Dourmoni Langthasa and Baoringdao Longmailai. All of them are residents of Haflong town and surrounding areas, according to police.

Police said that they have registered cases under sections 143 (unlawful assembly), 354B (criminal force against a woman with the intent to disrobe her), 307 (attempt to murder), 326 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapons or means) against the accused.

Additionally, charges under sections 353 (forcing or blocking a public servant from discharging of his duty), 332 (assaulting to on-duty public servants), 333 (voluntarily causing hurt to on-duty public servants), 427 (damaging public property worth 50 or more) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Section 3 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984 were added.

The SP said that this is not the first case where unknown persons have been thrashed on suspicion of child lifting. A similar incident was reported in the district last year.

Sometimes people with autism and other problems face the same and people should be careful of rumours before getting involved in such acts of violence, the SP said.
VARANASI Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually hold a tiffin meeting with BJP workers of all 660 polling stations of the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency on March 31, said Varanasi city unit President Vidyasagar Rai. PMs virtual tiffin meet with BJP workers in Kashi on March 31 (File photo)

Rai said, We have started preparations for PMs meeting. Registration of the workers is being done for the online meeting.

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PM Modi, who represents Varanasi, will contest the seat for the third time in a row this year. Varanasi Lok Sabha seat comprises five assembly constituencies--Sewapuri, Rohania, Varanasi North, Varanasi South, and Varanasi Cantt.

The online meeting will begin at 6 PM, said another BJP worker privy to the matter.

He said 5 to 10 BJP workers from every booth area would attend the meeting that could be two-hours-long.

BJP worker Rajkumar Das, the nominated member of Cantonment Board, said, We are quite enthused about the meeting because it will give us an opportunity to connect with PM Modi directly.

BJP panna pramukhs, panna committee members, booth committee members, booth presidents, Shakti Kendra coordinators and in-charge of polling stations will be present during the meeting.

BJPs national, state, regional, district-level office-bearers and public representatives will also participate in it.
Lucknow The newly inaugurated Terminal 3 at the Chaudhary Charan Singh International (CCSI) Airport will be functional from March 31. Akasa Air will be the first airline to shift its entire operations to Terminal 3, said the spokesperson of Lucknow Airport Rupesh Kumar. Terminal 3 at CCSI Airport in Lucknow to start operations from March 31 (File photo)

He said, The move to shift operations to Terminal 3 is in line with the Lucknow Airports plan to shift all the domestic and international flights to the newly built, integrated terminal, which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this month.

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Terminal 3 is built at a cost of 2,400 crore and can handle 80 lakh passengers per annum, at present and at the end of Phase 2 the capacity will go up to 1.3 crore passengers per annum, he said.

Announcing the commencement of operations, CCSI Airport spokesperson said, The airport is commissioning Terminal 3 from March 31 and Akasa Air will be the first airline to shift to the new facility. We are working to ensure that the shift to Terminal 3 will provide the passengers with a world-class experience.

He said, Passengers of Akasa Airlines will be informed about the shift in a timely manner and for this all available modes of communication will be used.

On the operation day, Lucknow Airport will be deploying customer service associates and signages at strategic decision-making points to guide Akasa Airlines passengers towards Terminal 3 (Departure and Arrival), he said.

Terminal 3 of the CCSI Airport has various key features to provide best facilities to flyers including DigiYatra, adequate check-in counters, common use self-service kiosks, automated tray retrieval systems, advanced baggage screening machines, baggage reclaim belts and aerobridges and parking bays for aircraft.

The newly constructed apron will increase the passenger boarding gates from 7 to 13 and passenger boarding bridges from 2 to 7. At present, the airport connects 29 domestic and 8 international destinations. The capacity augmentation will help in improving its operational efficiency substantially.

The spokesperson said, Advanced audio-visual system with the art and architecture of Uttar Pradesh will mesmerise the passengers with illuminated motifs of Chikankari and Mukaish embroidery. Graphics depict stories from epics, such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

He said, The airport has adequate arrangements of recyclable materials. It will be a multi-modal travel hub with metro connectivity, intercity electric bus service, and app-based taxi services.
Lakhs of students who had appeared in the High School mathematics examination-2024 of U.P. Board are going to get two marks for free. UP Board headquarters in Prayagraj (HT File Photo)

In the High School Mathematics examination held on February 27, question number 4 in Paper Series IA has been found to have been from outside the syllabus. Similarly, all four options given in question number 17 in the same question paper have also been found to be wrong. Both questions were one mark each. Therefore, the Board has decided to award two marks each to all candidates who got these question paper series during the exam, Board officials said.

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Similarly, all candidates who got question paper series IB will get a mark each as more than one option provided in question number 5 of Mathematics exam were found to be correct, officials added.

The teachers undertaking evaluation on behalf of the U.P. Board have been instructed to award equal marks to all candidates for these questions.

In all, 20,93,548 students were registered for the examination of High School mathematics this year in the state.

Teachers engaged in the evaluation maintain that there were less mistakes in the U.P. Board exam question papers compared to previous years.

In earlier years, these types of mistakes were found in many subjects. This time, improvement has been witnessed due to getting the question papers prepared and moderation done by only experienced teachers, they added.

The rule of the U.P. Board is that if any question is wrong or has been asked from outside the approved syllabus, then in such a situation the marks prescribed for that question are awarded to all the candidates, said U.P. Board secretary Dibyakant Shukla.

Teachers to no longer ferry bundles of answer sheets

Teachers have been relieved from the duty of delivering bundles of answer sheets from evaluation centres to U.P. Boards regional offices amid protests against the murder of Dharmendra Kumar, a teacher of Government High School, Mahanav, Varanasi, in Muzaffarnagar while undertaking the same responsibility on March 17.

UP Board Secretary Dibyakant Shukla has sent a missive to all district inspectors of schools (DIOSs) on March 26 instructing that teachers should not be deputed to send the bundles of answer sheets that have been checked at the designated 259 evaluation centers of the state to the respective regional offices of U.P. Board. For this, only non-teaching staff should be deputed, says the missive, a copy of which is with HT.

Teacher Dharmendra Kumar, who had reached Muzaffarnagar with High School and Intermediate answer sheets from Varanasi, was allegedly shot dead by a police constable accompanying the team. Teachers organisations have been demanding not to depute teachers in delivering answer sheets. In view of this, the UP Board secretary has asked officials to strictly follow this order.
Forest guard Kailas Bhalerao from Junnar forest division was injured during a rescue operation near Alephata in Junnar tehsil on Tuesday. Bhalerao is currently in stable condition, and undertaking treatment in a hospital, forest officials informed. Just before this incident, a bike rider, who was crossing the Pune - Nashik Highway near Alephata, was also injured as he was hit by the same leopard. Just before this incident, a bike rider, who was crossing the Pune - Nashik Highway near Alephata, was also injured as he was hit by the same leopard. (REPRESENTATIVE PHOTO)

As per the information given by the forest official, on Tuesday, March 26, a leopard was crossing the Pune- Nashik Highway during the nighttime. However, he collided with a bike, and the wild animal panicked due to the incident and entered a nearby human settlement and entered a two-story building in the area.

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Meanwhile, the forest department received a call from the residents about a leopard sighting and a rapid rescue team was deployed from the Nashik Road area. Along with that, a team of forest guards from nearby areas also reached the spot. However, before they reached the spot, the leopard escaped from the area and ran away to a nearby field on Tuesday night.

Speaking about the overall operation and the injury incident, Amit Bhise, assistant conservator of forest, Junnar forest division said, At least 500 people from the nearby area gathered outside the building where the leopard was sighted. It was difficult to manage the crowd for forest and police officials. Our rescue team managed to push the leopard towards the downside. But while he was climbing down from the stairs, the noise was made by someone, which panicked the leopard. He then got impulsive and started running down, attacking forest guard Kailas Bhalerao.

Bhise added that the forest guard received serious injuries on his hand and shoulder.

The leopard presence in human areas in Junnar tehsil has become a major point of concern for a long time. There were many incidents have been reported about multiple leopard sightings at the same place as the attack incidents in various areas in Junnar. These rising incidents of leopard sightings in human areas have triggered fear among people. The residents from Junnar tehsil are demanding strong action to mitigate the conflict situation. A sterilization plan is also proposed as a part of the mitigation solution; However, the project draft is still pending with the State government.
During a review meeting held on Tuesday, Pune district collector Suhas Diwase issued a stern warning to land acquisition officers over allegations of financial misconduct related to land transactions for the ambitious Pune Ring Road project. The Ring Road has been bifurcated into the eastern and western zones wherein the eastern zone comprises Maval and Kelawade and the western zone comprises Bhor, Haveli and Mulshi talukas of the district. The western Ring Road will pass through Bhor, Haveli, Mulshi and Maval talukas while the eastern Ring Road will pass through Maval, Khed, Haveli, Purandar and Bhor talukas. (REPRESENTATIVE PHOTO)

While the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has sanctioned 10,519 crore for the project, the collector during the review meeting said that the administration has received complaints of financial impropriety on the part of officials while acquiring land for the project from farmers and citizens at large.

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With the state government allocating substantial funds for land acquisition of the Ring Road, transparency and accountability in the process are paramount. There is a need to handle the complaints of financial misconduct diligently, Diwase said.

Also present at the meeting were MSRDC additional collector H V Argunde; land acquisition coordinating officer Kalyan Pande; sub-divisional officer; tehsildars; and other officials.

The Ring Road has been bifurcated into the eastern and western zones wherein the eastern zone comprises Maval and Kelawade and the western zone comprises Bhor, Haveli and Mulshi talukas of the district. The western Ring Road will pass through Bhor, Haveli, Mulshi and Maval talukas while the eastern Ring Road will pass through Maval, Khed, Haveli, Purandar and Bhor talukas.

The eastern Ring Road is 71.35 km long while the western Ring Road is 65.45 km long. Land acquisition for the western Ring Road is nearly 80% complete, with the district administration having successfully completed land acquisition in 31 villages and land acquisition in the remaining three villages underway. Whereas land acquisition for the eastern Ring Road is far from complete.

Apart from this, 395 hectares of land have to be acquired in 37 villages along Sinhagad Road. The state government has made a provision of 1,500 crore for land acquisition along Sinhagad Road. The 170 km-long Pune Ring Road will be an eight-lane express highway catering to vehicle speeds of 120 kmph.
Bihar School Examination Board will release the Bihar Board 10th Result 2024 likely soon. The date and time of release of BSEB matric results will be announced prior to the declaration of the Class 10 board results. Bihar Board 10th Result 2024 Live Updates Bihar Board 10th Result 2024: How, where to check BSEB Matric results

Bihar Board 10th Result 2024: Where to check

When declared. BSEB Class 10 results or Bihar Board Matric results can be checked on the official website of BSEB at biharboardonline.bihar.gov.in. The Bihar Board 10th result 2024 link will also be available to appeared candidates on results.biharboardonline.com.

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Candidates can also check the results for Bihar Board Class 10 on HT Portal Education page. But before that students will have to register to HT Portal Education page to get alerts when results are out.

Bihar Board 10th Result 2024: How to check

Follow the steps given below to check Bihar Board 10th Result 2024.

Visit the official website of BSEB results at results.biharboardonline.com.

Click on Bihar Board 10th Result 2024 link available on the home page.

Enter the login details and click on submit.

Your result will be displayed on the screen.

Check the results and download the page.

Keep a hard copy of the same for further need.

The BSEB Matric results will be announced at the press conference. The Board officials will conduct the press conference. Like BSEB Inter results, the Bihar Board 10th results will likely be announced by BSEB Chairman, Anand Kishore.

Along with the announcement of the results, the Board Chairman will announce pass percentage, toppers names and other details at the press conference.

Bihar Board conducted the BSEB Matric examination in the state from February 15 to February 23, 2024. The examination was conducted across the state at various exam centres. For more related details candidates can check the official website of BSEB.
The results of the All-India Bar Examination (AIBE 18) have been declared today by Bar Council of India (BCI). Candidates who appeared in the 18th Bar Examination can check their results on allindiabarexmination.com or barcouncilofindia.org and check it. Cleared AIBE 18 2024? Here are the 5 benefits qualifiers will be entitled to. (Shutterstock)

Alternatively, candidates can also click on this direct link to view their results.

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Notably, the All-India Bar Examination that is conducted twice a year by the BCI is a certification exam for law graduates willing to start practice of profession as Lawyer. As mentioned on its official website, the BCI conducts the exam in 50 cities across 140 centres as an open book exam. The objective behind the exam is to assess basic level knowledge of a member and lay down minimum benchmark for practicing law.

Also read: AIBE 18 result 2024 announced on allindiabarexmination.com, link to check BCI's Bar exam result

Notably, candidates who cleared the AIBE 18 will now be entitled to certain benefits. In this article, we will look at the top five benefits of those who qualified the exam and how things change for them in their legal career moving forward:

1. CERTIFICATE OF PRACTICE (COP):

Candidates who qualify the AIBE are awarded a Certificate of Practice by the Bar Council of India, enabling them to attend court hearings in any tribunal courts and administrative bodies.

2. REPRESTING CLIENTS IN COURT

Once the Certificate of Practice is received, advocates will be able to represent clients in Indian courts, The COP is an essential component for legal practice.

Also read: Preparing for IIT-JEE: What does it take to crack Indias toughest examination? Here is what expert suggests

3. LARGER LEGAL CAREER PROSPECTS

Another plus point of qualifying the AIBE it gives advocates the access to any courts in India. In other words, advocates with the Certificate of Practice can represent their clients and practice in court across the county.

4. CAN APPEAR FOR OTHER IMPORTANT EXAMS

After clearing the AIBE, candidates can appear for other government exams. Some of the exams include IBPS Law officer, Judiciary Law Officer and more. Most of these exams require enrolment as an Advocate with BCI as a main eligibility criteria.

5. ELIGIBLE FOR WELFARE SCHEMES

AIBE qualifiers are entitled to various advocate welfare schemes such as the Life Insurance, Accidental Insurance, and other financial benefits for serious illness, among others.

Also read: CBSE Class 10th Result 2024: Official websites, other ways to check scores

Notably, the 18th Bar examination of the council was conducted on December 10, 2023, at various exam centres across the country. The provisional answer key was released on December 12, 2023, and a window to raise objections was given between December 13 and 20.
Gujarat Secondary Service Selection Board has released GSSSB CCE Call Letter 2024 on March 27, 2024. Candidates who will appear for Joint Combined Competitive examination can download the admit card through the official website of GSSSB at gsssb.gujarat.gov.in. The admit card will be available for download till March 31, 2024. Gujarat GSSSB CCE Call Letter 2024 released, download link here

The Joint Combined Competitive examination will begin on April 1, 2024, at various exam centres across the state.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Gujarat GSSSB CCE Call Letter 2024: How to download

All those candidates who will appear for the examination can download the call letter by following the steps given below.

Visit the official website of GSSSB at gsssb.gujarat.gov.in.

Click on Gujarat GSSSB CCE Call Letter 2024 link available on the home page.

A new page will open where candidates will have to enter the required details.

Click on submit and download the page.

Keep a hard copy of the same for further need.

Gujarat Subordinate Services Class-III (Group-A and Group-B) Combined Competitive Examination to be conducted to fill 5554 Group A and Group B posts in the organisation. For more related details candidates can check the official website of GSSSB.
Commissioner for Entrance Examinations, Kerala has started KEAM 2024 registration on March 27, 2024. Candidates who want to apply for Kerala Engineering Entrance Examination can find the link on the official website of CEE Kerala at cee.kerala.gov.in. KEAM 2024 registration begins at cee.kerala.gov.in, direct link here

The last date to apply for the examination is till April 17, 2024. The last date for online submission of supporting documents is April 24, 2024.

The KEAM 2024 admit card will be available for download from May 20, 2024 onwards. The examination will be conducted from June 1 to June 9, 2024. KEAM 2024 examination will be conducted in two shifts- first shift from 9 am to 12 pm and second shift from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm. The results will be announced on or before June 20, 2024.

KEAM 2024: How to apply

To apply for the examination, candidates can follow the steps given below.

Visit the official website of CEE Kerala at cee.kerala.gov.in.

Click on KEAM 2024 registration link available on the home page.

Enter the required details and register yourself.

Once done, login to the account and fill the application form.

Make the payment of the application fee and click on submit.

Download the page and keep a hard copy of the same for further need.

Candidates who want to apply for Engineering only/ B.Pharm only/both will have to pay 875, if belonging to general category, 375/- if belonging to SC category. Architecture only/Medical & Allied only/both application fee is 625/- for general and 250/- for SC. For all the courses, 1125/- for general candidates and 500/- for SC candidates. ST candidates are exempted from payment of fee. For more related details candidates can check the official website of CEE Kerala.

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In a world where technology plays a pivotal role in the growth and development of nations, there is an increasing demand for a new-age university dedicated to reimagining technology education and research. Plaksha University, situated in Mohali, Punjab, strives to address this need in India. Prof. Rudra Pratap, the Founding Vice Chancellor of Plaksha University.

In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times Digital, Prof. Rudra Pratap, the founding Vice Chancellor of Plaksha University, provides insights into the institution's founding principles and distinctive approaches. He discusses Plaksha's innovative curriculum, holistic development initiatives, and its commitment to nurturing tech leaders who make a significant societal impact.

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Here are excerpts from that interview with Professor Rudra Pratap:

Could you share the inspiration behind the creation of Plaksha University?

In the fast-paced 21st century, technology has transformed the world exponentially. The existing educational framework, especially in technology, has struggled to keep up with this rapid change. Traditional universities, bound by their legacy, find it challenging to undergo radical shifts. Plaksha University was conceived to address this need by reimagining tech education. We sought to replace the outdated model of encapsulated information with a clean slate approach, fostering creativity and innovation in the face of today's information-rich environment.

Furthermore, we recognised the need for integrating entrepreneurship into the curriculum, particularly in India. While the country has seen a surge in service startups, there's a gap in fostering deep-tech startups. Plaksha aims to bridge this gap by instilling an entrepreneurial spirit in students, encouraging them to tackle complex issues such as energy, pollution, water, and health crises through interdisciplinary collaboration.

The third crucial aspect involves redefining research approaches. Plaksha envisions a departure from individual lab-based research to collaborative, interdisciplinary efforts. By addressing significant global challenges, our goal is to create a platform where faculty members network, share resources, and collectively contribute to solving major problems.

In essence, Plaksha University was established to revolutionise technology education, integrate entrepreneurship, and redefine research approaches to meet the demands of the 21st century.

Plaksha University

How has the journey been for Plaksha University in the last three years?

The journey has been exhilarating and transformative. Commencing in 2021 amid the challenges of the pandemic and the subsequent wave of Omicron, we learned early on to be resilient. Students, emerging from an era of prolonged online learning, faced disruptions in on-campus education. However, this period of uncertainty taught us valuable lessons about adaptability and innovation.

Over the past three years, we have laid the foundations for reimagined tech education, incorporating innovation, entrepreneurship, and a fresh approach to tech research. Every step we've taken has been aimed at creating enduring structures that will shape the future of education for decades to come. The uniqueness of our journey lies in its freshness and novelty  nothing about Plaksha is ordinary.

How does Plaksha's curriculum differ from traditional universities?

Plaksha University adopts a unique approach to admission and curriculum. Students are admitted without predefined majors, and they undergo a three-semester Freshmore curriculum. This curriculum is designed to provide a broad foundation in computational thinking, applied mathematics, foundational physical and life sciences, new-age humanities, societal connections, and exposure to global challenges.

During this foundational training, students explore various fields, gaining a solid understanding of linear algebra, probability, and statistics  crucial for core training in machine learning and artificial intelligence. Plaksha's curriculum encourages students to choose their preferred majors only after completing the Freshmore curriculum, giving them a broader perspective and fostering adaptability.

How does Plaksha support students financially?

Plaksha follows a need-blind admission process, ensuring that students are evaluated solely on merit. After admission, the scholarship committee assesses financial needs and offers scholarships ranging from 20% to 100% and beyond. Plaksha is committed to ensuring that no deserving student is turned away due to financial constraints. The financial statements of parents are only considered after the selection process, keeping the admission process unbiased.

Can you share more about Plaksha's growth and plans for the future?

Currently, Plaksha plans to admit around 200 students in UG, maintaining a deliberate focus on a small student population to provide individual attention. The goal is to avoid conveyor belt education and ensure a high-quality, personalised learning experience. With a student-to-faculty ratio between 10 and 12, Plaksha emphasises creating tech leaders with a solid educational foundation.

As we expand, we aim to uphold the principles of individualized attention, fostering a nurturing environment that produces leaders equipped to tackle complex problems and contribute meaningfully to society.

How does Plaksha promote entrepreneurship and innovation?

Plaksha is actively promoting entrepreneurship through programs and partnerships. The university is in the process of launching a minor in entrepreneurship in collaboration with UC Berkeley. Additionally, Plaksha has established a Center for Entrepreneurship, complete with an incubator and accelerator, providing comprehensive support for students keen on entrepreneurial pursuits. The founders, who are industry leaders themselves, actively engage with students, providing inspiration and guidance.

Beyond technical education, how does Plaksha ensure holistic development for its students?

Holistic development is a core aspect of Plaksha's educational philosophy. Approximately 30% of the curriculum focuses on areas beyond traditional technical subjects. Plaksha emphasizes community connect, compassion, and empathy, offering courses that encourage students to engage in community projects, fostering a sense of social responsibility.

Recognizing the importance of mental and physical well-being, Plaksha has incorporated well-being classes, yoga, and meditation into its offerings. These initiatives aim to provide students with a balanced and holistic educational experience.

How does Plaksha address the mental well-being of its students?

Plaksha prioritizes mental well-being, recognizing the challenges students face in today's fast-paced and digitally noisy world. The university has a dedicated team for student life that includes a psychological counsellor. Workshops and classes are conducted to proactively train students in identifying mental health issues. Plaksha aims to create a supportive environment where students can openly discuss their concerns and receive the necessary assistance.

The university is in the process of designing courses specifically focused on mental and physical well-being, with plans to present a comprehensive 3D transcript capturing not only academic achievements but also the various aspects of personal and social development.

As students graduate from Plaksha, what attributes do you expect them to possess?

Plaksha envisions graduates who are technically adept at tackling complex problems with a design thinking approach, breaking down challenges into manageable components, and executing effective solutions. Rigorous training ensures their professionalism and technical prowess.

Beyond their professional skills, Plaksha expects its graduates to embody compassion, empathy, and curiosity. The university aims to foster a sense of social responsibility and nurture individuals who, inspired by curiosity, continue to learn and contribute positively to society throughout their lives.

What is the overarching vision for Plaksha University?

Plaksha University aspires to be the 21st-century version of Takshashila, producing modern-day pioneers like Panini, Chanakya, and Charak. The goal is to create an environment where original scholarship flourishes, leading to groundbreaking contributions that the world has yet to witness. Plaksha distinguishes itself by being a tech university with a soul, emphasizing a holistic approach to education that goes beyond mere technological advancements. The vision is to instill a sense of social responsibility and balance, ensuring that graduates are not only tech-savvy professionals but also compassionate, empathetic individuals contributing positively to society.
Owing to complaints by parents, the fee fixation authorities of Jammu and Kashmir have barred private schools from seeking fees retrospectively from students who are seeking new admissions. Dont charge fee from new students retrospectively: J&K fee fixation committee(HT file)

The Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC)of private schools headed by retired justice Sunil Hali issued an order on Tuesday cautioning private schools which are either in the process of completing the admission process or have completed the same.

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Complaints are pouring in from the parents, that some schools are charging fee retrospectively for the months the student has not been on rolls of the school and has not availed any services from the school, the order said.

In this regard all the private schools are put under orders not to charge fees retrospectively for the period a student has not been on the rolls of school, it said.

The Committee for Fixation and Regulation fee of Private School is a statutory body constituted under Section 20 A of Jammu and Kashmir School Education Act 2002 for the purposes of regulating and determining the fee in private schools in the Union territory of J&K.

The schools were asked to charge a fee from the date a student is actually admitted in the school.

The FFRC also warned of strict action in case the schools defy the orders.  Any violation shall warrant action in accordance with law which may include recommending to the government for derecognition or dis-affiliation of the school, the order said.

The development comes six days after Kashmirs director school education, Tasaduq Hussain Mir warned private schools of strict action for charging prohibited capitation charges from students.

In December, 2023, the FFRC had come out against any admission fee charged by private schools saying they would refer the issue to CBI against the errant individual institutions. And if the agency proves the complaints, the schools will face de-recognition.

In April last year, the committee had barred the private schools of the union territory from unilaterally hiking fees as the new academic session started from March-April that year instead of November-December, 2022.
Alia Bhatt is hosting a gala! The actor, producer and entrepreneur is all set to host her first Hope Gala in London.As per a source close to her team, Alia will host the event on March 28 in partnership with the Mandarin Oriental hotel group at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. Also read: Ranbir Kapoor celebrates Holi with Alia Bhatt, daughter Raha Kapoor looks on. Watch Alia Bhatt attends an event in Mumbai on March 10, 2024. (File Photo/AFP)

About the charity gala

This is in support of Alia's chosen charity Salaam Bombay, which is focused on engaging Mumbai's most vulnerable 'at-risk' children through in-school programmes (leadership and advocacy) and after-school academies (skill building) that help build their confidence, self-esteem and commit them to stay in school. Reportedly, the gala will be attended by prolific industrialists and philanthropists from India and London.

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Alia Bhatt's latest projects

Alia has recently completed shooting for Jigra, which also stars Vedang Raina. Announcing the wrap, a few days ago, she shared candid photos from the sets of the movie on her Instagram featuring herself and Vedang. The film will be released in theatres in September 2024.

Helmed by Vasan Bala, Jigra is co-produced by Karan Johar and Alia herself. Vasan has previously helmed films like Monica O My Darling, Peddlers and Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota. Jigra marks Alia and Vasan's first on-screen collaboration.

Jigra was announced last year in September. The announcement video showed the film is a tale of a sister's love for her brother and how she would do anything to protect him.

Alia will reportedly also be seen in director Farhan Akhtar's film Jee Le Zaraa alongside Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif. The film promises to be another tale of friendship in the lineage of Dil Chahta Hai and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. However, the work on the film has not started yet.

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Former James Bond Pierce Brosnan has given his stamp of approval to the rumoured casting of Aaron Taylor-Johnson as the next 007. On RTE Radio 1s The Ray DArcy Show, Pierce gave a thumbs up to his former co-star if he's indeed been zeroed in on as the next Bond. (Also Read  Aaron Taylor-Johnson offered James Bond role, set to replace Daniel Craig: Report) Pierce Brosnan approves of Aaron Taylor-Johnson's casting as James Bond

What Pierce said

I think the man has the chops and the talent and the charisma to play Bond, very much so, said Pierce Brosnan about Aaron. So, yes, I read the news about his possibilities of being a Bond, so I would definitely tip my hat to the fellow, he added. Pierce starred with Aaron in Shana Feste's 2009 film The Greatest, and claimed that Aaron was the greatest in the movie.

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Pierce starred as 007 in four Bond movies  GoldenEye (1995), Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World Is Not Enough (1999), and Die Another Day (1999). He then passed on the torch to Daniel Craig, who played the popular spy all the way till No Time To Die (2021).

The next Bond

Since Daniel announced that he was hanging up his tuxedo after five outings as 007, there has been frenzied speculation over which actor will take the coveted role. Bond producers have not commented on the Aaron Taylor-Johnson rumours.

Speculating about the next Bond is a frequent subject (sometimes even before the job is available), leading British actors to adopt various strategies and responses when the topic comes up. One of the foremost names in the frame over the past few years has been Idris Elba, though producer Barbara Broccoli said in 2022 that the Luther star had ruled himself out.

He apparently has said hes out, she told The Associated Press. We love Idris and hes been a wonderful friend and we love him as an actor. But I think he feels like a, you know, 10- or 12-year commitment or 15-year commitment might be a bit too much for him. You know, its a rumour thats stuck with me, Elba said in 2023. I think Im the most famous Bond actor that never actually played the part. So, what can I say? Ill take that.

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Following in the footsteps of one of the most iconic pop groups of the 21st century, BTS fans' affectionate empathy manifested in humanitarian aid once more. With over one million Palestinian lives taking shelter in the southern Gaza city of Rafah amid Israel's ongoing war on Gaza, the dire situation could translate into a massive catastrophic blow, with Israel reportedly planning yet another invasion anytime soon. Yet support continues to pour in for all Palestinians witnessing the bloodbath and ravages of war. Instagram: aesthetics_of_bts | X (formerly Twitter): @ARMYProjectsIND

An Indian group of BTS fans, dubbed Team ARMY Projects India, broke the unimaginative and stereotyped vision that often resorts to describing the term fangirl' derogatorily. However, this isn't the first of its kind feat achieved by the consciously sensitive and aware fandom. Earlier this month, international admirers of the K-pop act ignited boycott campaigns and an online petition titled #HYBEDivestFromZionism, urging BTS' label to sever ties with Scooter Braun, CEO of the agency's American unit. (Read more here)

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Fighting the good fight, the Indian side of the fanbase echoed the sentiment by making a notably significant donation of over INR 3 lakhs for Palestine medical aid on the occasion of band member J-hope's birthday (February 18). Team ARMY Projects India's former projects also include giving back to nature, raising funds for stray animals, donating to Girl Child Education, opening fundraisers for mental health and other social callings. Hitting a new milestone, the team got in touch with HT, opening up about how the K-pop septet's actions encourage them to take on such pertinent responsibilities on the go.

Interviewing Team Army Projects India after BTS J-Hope's birthday donation project

Breaking the fan-mania stereotype: How the team came together

(The admins humbly requested to maintain their anonymity throughout the conversation.)

While donations from various corners have pooled in, it's always been Admins P and T who've kept the meter running. Meeting in school for the first time, the duo embarked on their heartwarming friendship, all thanks to BTS. Eventually, their mutual interest in the group deepened the bond, which retained its strength even after school.

Also read | BTS J-Hope's docuseries Hope on the Street OTT release date, connection with new album explored and more

Admin P had experience co-organising college fests & other K-pop-related events in Mumbai during her Bachelor's. In 2021, Admin T wanted to organise an event for Kim Namjoon's Birthday to give back to nature in his name (since) he's known for being a big nature lover, and Admin A shared the same sentiment, so we decided to work together on it, they told HT.

Our goal was to plant 150 trees initially, but we were able to plant 180 trees instead! That was the first ever project that we did. Since then, we've co-organised and managed 5 BTS events and 17 fundraisers, one of which is ongoing at the moment, explained Team ARMY Projects India.

How many people are involved behind the scenes for these projects to come to fruition?

Team ARMY Projects India: Just two! Having a small team could be tiresome since a lot of time, energy, planning, risk-taking, and overall management go into the events and fundraisers. It falls back on us entirely if there's any issue, but we're blessed, frankly, as we get a lot of help and boost from our fandom spaces on Instagram and Twitter & friends who are so kind & supportive to us each time.

How the team goes about choosing its project themes: Who decides which issue should be addressed next?

Team ARMY Projects India: We try to keep up with the recent news and are always looking for ways (to) help. It's our collective effort; sometimes, one of us brings in a different theme, and we discuss it thoroughly to find reliable sources and vetted organisations where we could donate before taking any further steps.

It is important for us to verify everything as we would be liable for any mishaps  especially (since we're) responsible for people's money. Both of us are very much in sync and decide on a theme together as we both recognise the urgent need at hand and always want to work on it in our capacity. As for our Hoseok Fundraiser in 2023, we decided to do a fundraiser for Orphaned Children. (However) Turkey and Syria Earthquake Crisis had happened (during the same time frame), so, we quickly switched our plans - by taking a poll on Instagram - and were able to raise and donate more than INR 38,000, with a few essential items to the Turkish Embassy.

Also read | NCT Dream's live-action Fruit Ninja MV crushes gloomy defeat to make a mature victory Smoothie | Watch

How does the team approach the target audience and positively redirect a fandom's energy to focusing on something bigger than just fan-mania?

One unique thing about BTS ARMY fandom has always been charity projects. In fact, we started a bit late in India, began Team ARMY Projects India. Seeking inspiration from international BTS ARMYs who'd initially kicked off several birthday projects, contributing to aforestation, adopting and protecting endangered animals and holding other fundraisers for social causes, Indian BTS fans also initiated their benefaction chain.

Yet, they were ultimately positively influenced by BTS' actions, especially since the members have been openly vocal about their donations to many causes in Korea and worldwide alike. Paving the way as nonpareil role models, the group members helped instil these fruitful chain reactions into their symbiotic relationship with the fandom. Team ARMY Projects India also quoted the famous example of BTS donating $1 million to the Black Lives Matter movement. Here, too, ARMYs effectively reciprocated within 24 hours, with their #MatchAMillion, as donations surpassing $1M followed BTS' exemplary precedent.

All in all, they have always inspired us to do good, all the time. BTS has a history of using their platform for good, whether through their music (addressing) social issues or donations. We're just following in their footsteps, revealed Team ARMY Projects India.

The team proudly concluded, "We don't have to redirect the fandom energy.. this positive energy has always been a part of our fandom. People genuinely wish to help in their capacity and we're glad we could be a medium to further amplify it by giving a platform to Indian ARMYs to make donations."

Some of BTS' philanthropic endeavours include J-Hope's generous donations of more than $89,000 to help child violence victims in Tanzania (2021) and Suga donating $88,000 to Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center for children battling cancer. Their charitable acts have also extended support to their hometowns and Sewol Ferry victims in the wake of the 2014 Sewol ferry capsize disaster.

Are there any ongoing projects the Indian BTS ARMY is working on?

Fundraiser for Congo, Sudan and Gaza for BTS Suga's Birthday Project!

Initial goal: 60,000 (Indian Rupees)

Deadline: March 31, 2024.
Amid ongoing sexual assault allegations, Diddy severs ties with Revolt TV, a media company he co-founded in 2013. Selling all his shares to an anonymous buyer, the American rapper has reportedly handed over the ownership to a new Black owner for an undisclosed amount. TMZ broke the report a day after Puff Daddy's homes in Los Angeles and Miami were raided by federal agents. The disgraced hop-hop mogul has been at the centre of a series of sexual assault allegations, with several women accusing him of the misdeed. (FILES) Sean Combs 'P. Diddy' arrives for the 2018 Met Gala on May 7, 2018, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Homes belonging to Sean "Diddy" Combs were being raided by federal agents, media reported on March 25, 2024, with the US hip hop mogul at the center of sex trafficking and sex assault lawsuits. (Photo by ANGELA WEISS / AFP)(AFP)

Diddy sells Revolt TV

Hoping to further culture and consolidate its original connections, the new boss share(s) a deep passion for Black culture, sources claim. The report also highlights that the new buyer will formally announce the takeover and introduce themself in the coming weeks.

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Diddy stepped down as the company's chairman in November 2023, and the final sale deal sealed his inactivity with the network this week. Reportedly concluding his last order of business earlier this week, P.Diddy amicably parted ways with the network. Revolt TV was the last major brand the American rapper was associated with.

Also read | Sean Diddy Combs NOT on the run: Caught on camera looking tense at Miami airport amid Federal raid

Media sources stated that Diddy's goodbye won't usher in any management shake-ups. Revolt CEO Detavio Samuels and Chief Brand Officer Deon Graham will continue their work in their posts. As stated, the new buyer will likely maintain the brand's current action plan, gradually transitioning to their vision over time.

Although the report came to light a day after Diddy's properties were raided, it's suggested that his exit was planned well ahead of time. This has led many to speculate if he knew what was coming ahead of time and planned his departure accordingly. The Southern District of New York seemingly handled the raid case said to be tied to the rapper's sex trafficking allegations, which he has denied despite several plaintiffs rising against him.
Stand-up comedian and Bigg Boss 17 winner Munawar Faruqui shared his first post on Wednesday after he was detained and then released by the Mumbai Police. Earlier on Wednesday, news agency PTI cited an official as saying that Munawar was among 14 persons detained after they were found smoking hookahs during a raid in south Mumbai. (Also Read | Munawar Faruqui reacts to Elvish Yadav getting bail in snake venom case) Munawar Faruqui was detained and then released by the Mumbai police.

Munawar's first post after being released by police

Taking to Instagram Stories, Munawar shared a selfie in which he smiled and posed. He was seen wearing a blue T-shirt and a cap in the closeup picture as he stood inside a room.

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To the photo, Munawar added the time stamp as 04:55, which was after his release. He wrote, "Tired and travelling (sparkles emoji)." He geo-tagged the location as Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

Munawar shared a post on Instagram.

Why Munawar was detained

The Social Service branch of the Mumbai police conducted the raid at a hookah parlour located in Bora Bazar area of Fort around 10.30 pm on Tuesday, and the operation continued till 5am of Wednesday, an official said. "During the raid, the police found stand-up comedian Munawar Faruqui and others smoking hookahs at the joint. We also have a video of their act. We detained Faruqui and others, but they were later allowed to go as the sections slapped against them were bailable," a senior police official said.

Under which IPC sections was Munawar detained

Police had received information that some patrons were smoking tobacco-based hookahs at the parlour in the guise of smoking herbal hookahs, he said. Munawar and others were booked under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act along with the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 283 (danger or obstruction in public way or line of navigation), 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others), the official said. Notices were served to Munawar and others by the Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Marg police and they were allowed to go, he said.

Munawar released by police

News agency ANI, quoting the police said, "Though it was a bailable offence, the police gave a notice and let Faruqui go. The police are investigating the matter. Our team raided a hookah bar in Mumbai after getting information about tobacco being used in under the guise of herbal."

About Munawar

Munawar was one of the most popular contestants of the 17th season of Bigg Boss. He hogged the limelight ever since he entered the Bigg Boss house. However, his game backfired soon, and he faced several hurdles, mainly when Ayesha Khan entered the show making some serious allegations against him. Ayesha blamed him for cheating on her, making false promises, and proposing to another girl for marriage. His game hit rock bottom but he managed to stand tall. Before Bigg Boss 17, Munawar gained popularity after winning the reality show Lock Upp.

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Even more up-to-the-minute media reports have now refuted the initial claims of South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun receiving an 800 million won fee for his Queen of Tears role. The tvN romantic comedy title started airing earlier this month. Recording a benchmark with its highest viewership ratings, 14.1%, with Episode 6 on March 24, the A-lister's series witnessed a popularity boost as he got embroiled in dating rumours with actress Kim Sae Ron. Already possibly deemed the highest-paid K-drama actor, Soo Hyun made it to headlines once more when speculations about his appearance fee sprung up. Kim Soo Hyun as Baek Hyun Woo in his latest K-drama outing Queen of Tears.

Challenging initial rumours, South Korean media reports have propounded the idea that the actor is actually getting a lower price than his previous project, One Ordinary Day.

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Kim Soo Hyun's Queen of Tears fee

With rising standards and production value, actors are also demanding a heftier cheque validating their contributions to new projects. However, updated claims from an industry insider allege that the star considerably cut his own appearance fee to ease the burden on production costs.

Also read | New on Netflix in April 2024: Parasyte to Scoop, City Hunter, Crooks, and more

According to these new suggestions, it's indicated that Kim Soo Hyun received a number smaller than what he received for his One Ordinary Day role. His salary for the former role was reportedly marked at 500 million won per episode. The It's Okay to Not Be Okay actor's agency, Goldmedalist, seemed unforthcoming as it has neither confirmed nor denied these assertions.

The K-drama's production team and Studio Dragon have likewise denied the old rumours of Soo Hyun's hefty fee. If they were to be true, the supposed fee of 800 million won per episode would have rounded out to a title of 12.8 billion won (with a 16-episode season), coming up to one-third of the reported 40 billion won production cost.

Additionally, Queen of Tears writer Park Ji Eun seemed to have influenced the 36-year-old star's decision. The 2024 series marks their third collaboration, following previous projects, My Love From the Star and The Producers.
In a significant jolt to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), its lone Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha, Sushil Kumar Rinku, joined the rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday. Rinku, who is an MP from Punjab's Jalandhar, joined BJP along with AAP MLA Sheetan Angural. Jalandhar (Punjab) Lok Sabha Sitting AAP MP Sushil Rinku along with JALANDHAR West MLA Sheetal Angural Join BJP (Photo - HT/Sanjeev Verma)

This blow to the party comes just as AAP national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal remains in the custody of the Enforcement Directorate in relation with the excise policy case in the national capital.

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Rinku, the MP from Jalandhar in Punjab, and Angural, who was elected to the state Assembly from Jalandhar West, joined the BJP in the presence of Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri and its national general secretary Vinod Tawde.

Upon joining BJP, the Lok Sabha MP accused the AAP government in Punjab of not helping him in developmental projects in the state, and said he is joining the rival party for the betterment of Punjab.

Rinku said on Wednesday, "It is true that the promises I made to the people of Jalandhar were not fulfilled because my party (AAP) did not support me. I am impressed with the working style of PM Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah..."

I have taken this decision for the development of Jalandhar. We will take Jalandhar forward. We will bring all the projects of the Central Government to Jalandhar, he added.

The parliamentarian had quit the Congress to join AAP last year to fight the bypoll to the Jalandhar Lok Sabha seat. He had been vocal in criticising the BJP in the Lok Sabha. Rinku was even suspended from the House for his unruly protests.

Since this development comes shortly before the Lok Sabha elections, it is likely that the BJP will field Rinku as a candidate from Punjab, inducting a number of strong leaders from multiple parties in the state.

The loss of AAP's lone Lok Sabha MP is expected to be a major hit for the AAP government in Punjab, as the party's position continues to hang in balance after Arvind Kejriwal's arrest in the Delhi excise policy case.

Kejriwal was the fourth AAP leader to be arrested in the case, after Manish Sisodia, Sayendra Jain and Sanjay Singh. Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao's daughter K Kavitha was also taken into custody by the ED in the same case.

(With inputs from PTI)
Days after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was taken into custody, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Goa chief Amit Palekar, who was the CM face for the party during the assembly elections in the state. AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal with the partys Goa chief Amit Palekar (ANI)

ED has summoned Palekar, and some other party leaders from Goa, for questioning in a money-laundering case linked to the Delhi excise policy on March 28, official sources told PTI on Wednesday. The AAP leaders have been asked to depose at the central agency's office in Goa's Panjim on Thursday, the sources said.

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Palekar, who was the AAP's chief ministerial face during the February 2022 Goa Assembly polls, had recently said there was no evidence to prove that any illicit money was sent to the state, asserting that he and his party colleagues were ready to face any inquiry.

In its chargesheet, ED has claimed that the AAP used "proceeds of crime" to the tune of about 45 crore in its Goa poll campaign, from the 100 crore "bribe" that was pumped in by the "South Group" that allegedly involved Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao's daughter K Kavitha was also arrested by the ED in relation with the excise policy case, days before Kejriwal was taken into custody.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the central agency on March 21, and his custody was extended till March 28. The chief minister will be presented in front of a Delhi court at the end of his remand period, which is tomorrow.

Delhi HC issues notice to Enforcement Directorate

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on a petition moved by Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal challenging his arrest and also challenging ED remand granted by the trial court while refusing to grant any immediate relief.

The court further fixed the matter for hearing on April 3, stated that any release order from custody will amount to enlarging Arvind Kejriwal on bail or interim bail, as an interim measure.

Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appeared for Arvind Kejriwal and during the hearing, submitted that a sitting CM was arrested one week ago during the Model Code of Conduct.

Kejriwal, in his plea, also alleged that the DOE has, at the time of arrest, failed to establish that Petitioner is guilty of committing activities stipulated under Section 3, i.e., be it concealment, possession, acquisition, use of proceeds of crime, as much as projecting it as untainted property or claiming it to be so.

(With inputs from PTI)
PATNA: Ajay Kanu, the former Naxal commander convicted for the 2005 Jehanabad jailbreak case, on Wednesday, said that he is trying to get a Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) ticket for his wife from the Jehanabad parliamentary constituency. Ajay Kanu did not say if he received any assurance from Lalu Yadav when he handed over his wifes application for the RJD ticket on Friday

Kanu alias Ajay Sao told reporters in Patna that he met RJD founder Lalu Prasad Yadav on Friday to pitch for a party ticket from the Lok Sabha constituency. The RJD last won the seat in 2004. Chandeshwar Prasad of the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal (United) is the sitting MP.

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Kanu did not say if he received any assurance from Lalu Yadav when he handed over his wifes application on Friday. Currently Chandeshwar Chandrawansi of JD (U) is the sitting MP from Jehanabad. He belongs to the Kahar community while I belong to the Kanu community, a most backward class, said Kanu.

No political party has ever fielded a candidate from the Kanu community and I hope that Lalu Prasads give the ticket for my wife, he added.

Former Bihar minister Surendra Yadav is also a contender for the seat.

Kanu plotted the audacious attack on the Jehanabad jail in November 2005 that saw hundreds of Naxals holding the town hostage and storming into the district jail leading to the release of 389 inmates including the Naxal commander. He was arrested again a little over a year later when Kanu and two women activists on their way from Dhanbad to Kolkata were intercepted by the police on February 4, 2007.

Kanu, a graduate of Jehanabad College who joined the PWG in 1980 to avenge the killing of his father in a land dispute, was released from jail in January 2020 on bail.

He faced 42 cases at the time of his arrest in 2007 and has been cleared in 36 cases by the court. Kanu, was, however, convicted in the Jehanabad jailbreak case and was released after the Patna high court granted him bail on December 4, 2019.

Kanu took his first steps to switch to electoral politics after he joined a local outfit, Lokhit Adhikar Party. His wife Sharda Devi, had previously contested the local body elections from Chauhar panchayat of Arwal district in 2021 but lost.
Jailed Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's wife Sunita Kejriwal on Wednesday said he will present a detailed reply on so-called Delhi liquor scam in the court on Thursday, March 28. Sunita Kejriwal held a brief press conference. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwals wife Sunita Kejriwal reads out his message from jail in a video released on Saturday. (PTI)

Earlier on Tuesday evening, Sunita Kejriwal met with Arvind Kejriwal at the office of the Directorate of Enforcement (ED).

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...Two days ago, Arvind Kejriwal sent a letter to water minister Atishi regarding the water and sewer problems in Delhi... The central government filed a case against him. Do they want to destroy Delhi? Do they want the people to keep suffering? Arvind Kejriwal is very pained by this... In the so-called liquor scam, the ED has conducted more than 250 raids. They are searching for the money of this so-called scam. They have found nothing yet... Arvind Kejriwal has said he will reveal everything in the court on March 28. He will reveal where the money of the liquor scam is... He will also provide proof, Sunita Kejriwal said.

The ED arrested Kejriwal on March 21 in connection with the now-scarpped Delhi excise policy case linked to a money laundering case and remanded the next day to the ED till March 28.

The case pertains to alleged irregularities and money laundering in framing and implementing the Delhi excise policy case 2022, which was later scrapped.

The case arose out of a report submitted by Delhi chief secretary Naresh Kumar to Lieutenant Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena in July 2022, pointing to alleged procedural lapses in the formulation of the policy.

The report said "arbitrary and unilateral decisions" taken by Sisodia in his capacity as Excise Minister had resulted in "financial losses to the exchequer" estimated at more than 580 crore.This report was referred to the CBI, and led to Sisodia's arrest.

While Arvind Kejriwal was not named in the FIRs registered by the ED or the Central Bureau of Investigation in the Delhi excise policy case, his name first found a mention in the ED's chargesheet, wherein the agency claimed that he allegedly spoke to one of the main accused, Sameer Mahendru, in a video call and asked him to continue working with co-accused and AAP communications-in-charge Vijay Nair.
Operations like the 2019 air strikes on a terror camp in Pakistans Balakot have shown, if political will is there, aerospace power can be used effectively behind enemy lines in a no-war, no-peace scenario under a nuclear overhang without allowing the actions to escalate into a full-blown conflict, Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said on Wednesday. IAFs Mirage fighter jets hit three targets in Balakot. (ANI photo)

Attributes of high speed, reduced response time, long reach, increased mobility, technological intensity, precision fire power, shock effect, ability to operate across domains, and network centric operations have made aerospace power a formidable component of our nations military might, Chaudhari said, in his inaugural address at the 15th Jumbo Majumdar International Seminar.

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The air strikes against the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror base were Indias response to the Pulwama suicide car bomb attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men were killed on February 14, 2019. Twelve days later, the IAFs Mirage fighter jets hit three targets in Balakot, with five Israeli-origin Spice 2000 bombs with penetrator warheads that allowed them to pierce through the rooftops before exploding inside to cause maximum damage.

Also Read: PM Modis counter-terror doctrine works against Pakistani jihadists

In the context of aerospace power in future conflicts, the IAF chief said one of its key elements would be the design, development and production of next-generation fighter aircraft.

I am aware that there are many discussions being held on the relevance of manned aircraft in the future. In my opinion, reliance solely on unmanned aircraft is a little farfetched. The next step in development of air power would be man and unmanned teaming, he said.

Over the last few decades, the understanding of the military operational environment has significantly transformed from primarily a force, time and space driven battlefield to an arrangement of systems capable of simultaneous and independent operations across multiple domains, he said.

We all need to acknowledge that the wars of the future will be fought differently.

Future conflicts will be characterised by a blend of simultaneous application of kinetic and non-kinetic forces, high levels of battlespace transparency, multi-domain operations, high degree of precision, enhanced lethality, a compressed sensor-to-shooter cycle and intense media scrutiny, he said.

To be able to fight effectively in such an environment, there is a need to reimagine, realign and reform conventional war fighting ways and means.

The evolution of aerospace power is not merely a matter of technological prowess but also a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of human innovation in the face of emerging threats and challenges, he said.

Space has emerged as a critical domain for military operations, where seamless communication, navigation and surveillance capabilities, would enhance survivability of modern military forces. As nations increasingly rely on space-based assets for building strategic advantage, militarisation and weaponisation of space has become an inevitable reality, he said.
New Delhi: Bangladesh has sought assured annual supplies of five food commodities, including rice and wheat, from India to tackle fluctuations in market prices and shortages, people familiar with the matter said. Bangladesh has sought assured annual supplies of five food commodities, including rice and wheat (Representative Photo)

The two countries have held discussions on this issue and Dhaka has asked New Delhi to sign a memorandum of understanding on fixed quotas for these commodities, including onions, ginger and garlic, the people said on condition of anonymity.

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However, the two sides have not yet been able to reach common ground in view of sensitivities linked to the export of such commodities, said the people aware of discussions held so far.

India banned wheat exports in May 2022 and exports of non-basmati rice in July 2023 to cater to domestic requirements. The government banned the export of onions for about four months last December. However, India has supplied rice, wheat and onions to countries in the neighbourhood, such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka, and key partners, such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Indonesia and Vietnam, on a case-to-case basis.

Ahead of the Islamic month of Ramzan, the government allowed the export of 50,000 tonnes of onions to Bangladesh and another 14,400 tonnes to the UAE in early March in response to requests through diplomatic channels. These were the first exports after the ban kicked in.

While all the supplies have not yet reached Bangladesh through the National Cooperative Exports Ltd, the Indian governments decision had the effect of immediately cooling prices in Bangladeshi markets, which had increased sharply since last year, one of the people cited above said.

The move to have fixed quotas for these five commodities is aimed at having some protection from export bans and ensuring uninterrupted and assured supplies every year, the person added.

There was no official word from the Indian side on the request from Bangladesh, which figured in visiting Bangladesh foreign minister Hasan Mahmuds meeting with commerce minister Piyush Goyal in New Delhi in January. Mahmud told reporters at the time he had sought additional supplies of sugar and onions in line with the Sheikh Hasina governments focus on reducing the prices of essential commodities.

Bangladeshs imports of rice from India increased from $9.7 billion in 2021-22 to $11.1 billion in 2022-23, while wheat imports were worth $2.1 billion in 2021-22 and $1.5 billion in 2022-23, according to official figures from the Indian side.

Imports of onions from India increased from $460.5 million in 2021-22 to $561.8 million in 2022-23, while imports of ginger fell from $93 million in 2021-22 to $35.9 million in 2022-23. Imports of garlic rose sharply from $2.9 million in 2021-22 to $11.3 million in 2022-23.

In 2019, Indias ban on onion exports due to soaring domestic prices had a major impact on Bangladesh. During a visit to India at the time, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina jokingly told a business forum in New Delhi in the presence of Goyal that she had asked her cook to stop using onions. She also said India should alert Bangladesh in advance about such bans.

Bangladesh remains one of Indias most trusted partners in the neighbourhood and the two sides have focused on increasing connectivity for trade, energy supplies and tourism. Hasinas victory in the general election in January has also given a boost to the burgeoning ties.
An Indian national studying at the London School of Economics (LSE), has alleged that a smear and hate campaign was run against him ahead of voting for the post of General Secretary of the LSE Students Union, an election he contested. Satyam Surana (twitter.com/SatyamSurana)

Satyam Surana, who made headlines in October last year after picking up the Indian tricolour during a protest by Khalistan supporters outside the Indian High Commission in London, claimed that the alleged harassment was due to his support for prime minister Narendra Modi, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Ram Temple, and Bharat (India).

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The last week has been tough for me. After rigorous campaigning, my team and I were blessed with support from the diverse international student community here at LSE. The undercurrent for me was one of acceptance and encouragement, he said in a long note, screenshots of which were posted by him on X (formerly Twitter).

He added that his success provoked Anti-India and Anti-Modi elements to unleash a systematic, planned, and pre-organised campaign against the Pune-born student, who has also practiced at the Bombay high court.

My posters were ripped off, defaced, maligned, and cancelled. Over the last 24 hours preceding the voting period, I was labelled as an Islamophobe, racist, terrorist, fascist, queerphobe, among other things. The toolkit linked me as a BJP member and went on to demean and challenge India's sovereignty, Surana further wrote.

Even the act of picking up the tricolour was questioned and attempts were made to dox his social media accounts, Surana said.

The answer to who all were behind this campaign was clear, he stated, adding that this was ideated by some of very own, ignorant, shameless, and propaganda-driven Indians who could not digest that Indians are now powerful enough to guide the international community towards righteousness.

I say it loud and proud today: People are now Anti-India because they are Anti-Modi. His failed political opponents have now spread to the world and using the global arena to try to distort his image. I hope to return to my Matrubhoomi (motherland) and will keep speaking up for my country and PM Narendra Modi, he concluded, refusing to back down.
A 28-year-old woman allegedly died by suicide in Madhya Pradeshs Bhopal after hanging her three daughters aged between one and five purportedly due to harassment her husband subjected her to for failing to give birth to a male child. Two of the daughters died while the third was rushed to a hospital where her condition was said to be stable. Police were verifying a handwritten note recovered from the spot. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The woman hanged herself and her daughters on Monday after sending messages to her sister-in-law and brother about the alleged harassment, said Arun Sharma, a local police officer. Police have registered a complaint and were investigating the matter. They said a case would be registered based on the post-mortem report.

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Sharma said the matter came to light on Tuesday afternoon. The woman gave birth to three girls in five years but her husband wanted a male child. On Monday night, the couple argued over it. She sent five messages between 12.24am and 12.55am on Tuesday that her husband was harassing her and she was killing her daughters and herself.

The womans brother said he saw the messages in the morning and tried calling her. But, she did not respond. I called her husband and he said everything was fine. I did not believe him. I called my aunt, who lives in a neighbouring village. When my relatives reached her house, they saw the bodies of the three. They had not informed the police then. I informed the police.

The womans husband claimed she died by suicide as she was upset with some medical issues. She wanted a male child but was unable to get pregnant and that is why she ended her life. Police were verifying a handwritten note recovered from the spot.
Political parties knocking on the doors of the Election Commission of India to complain about violations of the model code, or rules that prohibit hate speech or a spate of other electoral laws, are part of the election process. In the last few years, it is typically the opposition that has levelled allegations of partisanship, accusing the poll body of being lenient towards the ruling party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, even as the election commission has vehemently denied these charges to assert its independence. The office of the Election Commission of India in New Delhi. (Arvind Yadav/HT Photo)

However, on Tuesday, it was the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that went to the poll panel with a complaint over what it claimed was a biased response to its requests and complaints by state commissions in Opposition-ruled regions.

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In a memorandum submitted to the poll panel, the party alleged that some EC officials drawn from state cadres are either complicit or are under grave pressure and threats of the political leadership in some of the state governments.

Pointing out that the cornerstone of a robust democracy lies in the impartiality and neutrality of its electoral officers, the party alleged that in several states, including West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka. Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Punjab, the conduct of these officers is biased due to pressure of their political bosses.

It claimed there are instances of officers exhibiting egregious partiality, turning a blind eye to social media posts or speeches flagged by the BJP while delaying or neglecting complaints filed by our party or the delay in granting permissions for legal requests.

A case in point being the undue haste in acting against BJP minister Shobha Karandlaje, against whom an FIR has been filed despite her public apology. Karandlaje had stoked a controversy after saying that the Tamil Nadu governments appeasement politics has emboldened radical elements to attack Hindus and BJP workers day and night.... Although she apologised, a case was filed against her.

Explanations

The BJP, which has launched a fierce attack against the Congress for making derogatory references towards women, was left embarrassed by the utterances of its own leader Dilip Ghosh against West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

The party has been labelling the Congress anti-women by pointing out how at least two of its leaders made derogatory references to actor Kangana Ranaut, who has been fielded as the BJP candidate from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh.

Ghosh, not new to controversies, made a disparaging reference, which the party was quick to distance itself from. Pointing out that such statements were against the partys line, Ghosh was issued a show cause notice late on Tuesday night by the central leadership, asking him to submit an explanation at the earliest. A former state unit president, Ghosh is contesting from Bardhman-Durgapur.

Tickets for turncoats

On Tuesday, a group of BJP workers and supporters of party leader Bhikhaji Thakor took to the streets in Modasa in Gujarat, protesting the partys decision to give a ticket to Shobhna Baraiya from Sabarkantha. Her candidature was announced on Saturday after Thakor pulled out of the race citing personal reasons.

However, Thakors supporters were peeved. Baraiya, whose husband is a former Congress legislator who switched sides to the BJP, was given the party ticket even before she officially became a primary member of the party, they alleged.

The protest that soon turned into a bandh, with traders shutting shops to lend their support, was diffused by noon after the state leaderships intervention. But the cadre has registered its concern about turncoats being given tickets, overlooking party workers.

In the list of candidates for the assembly bypoll, the BJP has named all five Congress turncoats, who resigned from the assembly to join the BJP, according to an announcement by the party.

The five legislators  four from Congress and one Independent  have been given the party ticket for the upcoming bye-election to be held on May 7, which coincides with the third round of the seven-phased general elections.
Malappuram (Kerala) Despite catching nationwide attention following the denial of permission to accompany Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an open jeep during the election campaign roadshow in Keralas Palakkad two days ago, the BJPs lone Muslim face so far in the fray said he continues to be a hardcore believer in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad but places patriotism and national interests above all religious preferences. BJPs Salam is set to contest from Mallapuram district in Kerala. (HT photo)

In an exclusive interaction with Hindustan Times at his constituency Malappuram, which is otherwise a traditional citadel of Congress alliance partner Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), academic turned politician M Abdul Salam said Muslim politicians in the country must end their existing practice of finding the BJP and Narendra Modi as their enemies and acting as a `walkout opposition in the parliament.

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The 71-year-old agronomist, who has over 70 international research papers to his credit and is one of the most controversial vice-chancellors of Keralas prestigious Calicut University, Salam, claimed he was not disheartened by the SPGs refusal to accommodate Modi in the open jeep, as reported by a section of the media.

Before the beginning of the roadshow, I met the prime minister, and he offered me good luck. I took a selfie with him as well. I reached Palakkad only to invite him to campaign in my Malappuram constituency, and the prime minister has yet to accept or reject that invitation, he said.

When asked why a former vice chancellor chosen by the IUML to lead one of the universities with high Muslim stakes chose to prefer a Hindutva party later, Salam claimed the BJP was never a Hindutva or communal party, and he wishes to call it a collective of nationalists who place all of their other priorities below the patriotic goals.

I have no personal animosity with Congress, IUML, or CPI (M). My question is why they are not placing national interests first. Religion and faith are important but should not be placed above the country. To me, the country is the top priority. So I found Modis dedication to the country and its overall growth to be matchless, he said.

What are the Congress and CPI (M) pursuing in Kerala other than simply appeasing fanatic Muslim leaders? All 20 Lok Sabha constituencies in Kerala will go to the polls on April 26, a Friday. Keralas ruling and opposition parties are now requesting the Election Commission of India (ECI) to reschedule the polling date in the state as it coincides with a Friday, a significant day for the Muslim faith. If the country is the priority, any Muslim can vote on that day before or after prayers at the mosque. If this is the mentality, how would the community achieve progress and its youngsters occupy top slots? he asked.

He said the adamant attitude of Muslim Orthodoxy towards trivial matters makes things complex for the community in the country.

I feel honoured as the lone Muslim face so far among the BJP candidates at the national level. But it is also a limitation. The BJP respects minorities and welcomes Muslim leaders. But why are they not ready to join the party and help Modiji achieve his vision for the country? As an educated Muslim, I found it my duty to join Modi in this mission to make India a world power. Muslim leaders must not be puppets at the hands of those elements that are jealous of Indias growth, he said.

Its true that IUML, which handled the education portfolio of the Ommen Chandy-led Congress government, made me the vice-chancellor. But it was not a concession to an unqualified person on religious grounds. If they had chosen me, I would have performed better than their expectations. But they must not anticipate that I would be a prisoner of them for my whole life. I started watching Modi and his unique abilities even while being the vice chancellor. As a researcher with a clinical perspective, I used my methodology to follow Modi, and I found him the answer to the larger questions India faced, he said.

He said the BJP is not communal, and it would be happy to accommodate even IUML, the largest minority party in India, in the NDA if it approves Modis leadership and shares his national vision.

Goa governor and former BJP Kerala unit president P. S. Sreedharan Pillai brought me to the BJP in 2019 and chose me as the party candidate in the state assembly election in 2019 at Tirur in Malappuram. Though I lost to IUMLs Kurukkoli Moideen and managed hardly 5.33 percent of the votes, the party has now deputed me to contest the Lok Sabha election. I never canvassed for the seat and learned only about my candidature through television news. That is the kind of preference and quality prevailing in the BJP. Even if I lose this election, I will not demand anything from the party. Instead, I will work as a disciplined functionary at the grassroots level, he said.

When asked about Ayodhya and Babri Masjid, he said Muslims are not attaching so much importance to any geographical locality other than Mecca, and they can worship at any place by shifting mosques to convenient localities.

He said the Gyanvapi and other contentious issues can be easily solved if Muslim clergy shift the disputed mosques to more spacious and convenient locations identified by fellow Hindus.

He claimed that the protests against CAA in Kerala are false and that the law would not affect any Indian Muslims.

We, the Muslims, must evolve as a constructive force, taking a bold position against terrorism and obscurantism. Those who chopped off the hands and heads must be singled out and handed over to the investigating agencies. The priority must be overall growth, he said.

Salam said he has high faith in the Muslim women voters of Malappuram who are clad in `black burqa and are continuously victimised by triple talaq.

They may be silent and unorganised. But they would vote for me en masse as a mark of solidarity to Modi, who improved their positions, he said.

When reminded about the controversial days at Calicut University, including the infamous board outside his chamber preventing womens entry to meet him, Salam said he had never been against women. That time, the CPI (M) student wing of SFI was creating enormous hurdles for me. There were police and intelligence reports of the possible implicating of me in sexual harassment cases. So I installed a board just saying that women who wish to meet me must not come alone to the chamber; if they are alone, they must seek accompaniment from a senior lady staff in my office. I had even created a special facility outside my office to address requests from women who wished to meet me, he said.

When asked about his controversial decisions, including the bid to sell off varsity land and to admit students for degree courses without a plus-two qualification, Salam said all those were the propaganda of the CPI (M) cyber goons.

They registered 19 cases against me with police and anti-corruption embellishments. Please verify the present position of all those cases. In many cases, the investigators failed to charge me in the absence of any evidence. The courts absolved me of the need for evidence in the rest of the cases. They brutally chased me and levelled heinous allegations against me for attempting to make the university the best in the country, he claimed.

Asked why even Congress and IUML, which appointed him to the post, turned his enemies by the end of his tenure, Salam said that in his tenure between 2011 and 2015, he attempted to end political interference and collective bargaining by employee unions.

Such actions irritated both the UDF and the LDF, he said.

Salam said the Malappuram district was constituted 65 years ago as the lone Muslim-majority district of the South. Still, it remains backward by unquestioningly supporting the Congress and IUML.

He claimed that only the BJP could ensure a new breath of life for Malappuram.

A native of Chadayamangalam in the Southern Kollam district, resides in Thiruvananthapuram.

Before retiring as vice chancellor of Calicut University, he was the head of the regional research station of Kerala Agriculture University at Vellayani in Thiruvananthapuram. In Malappuram, he is fighting IUML veteran E T Muhammed Basheer, who represented the nearby Ponanni Lok Sabha constituency in the outgoing Lok Sabha, and V Vaseef, the young leader of the CPI (M) youth wing DYFI.
Patna: Having won the bitter political legacy battle against his uncle in Hajipur, LJP-R chief Chirag Paswan has passed on his own legacy in Jamui to his brother-in-law, Arun Bharti. Pashupati Paras (left) and Chirag Paswan (right) (File photo.)

A two-time MP from Jamui, Chirag will contest this year form Hajipur, a seat represented by his father, Ram Vilas Paswan, nine times and, which his uncle Pashupati Kumar Paras represented in 2019.

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With Paswan set to carry forward his fathers legacy in Hajipur, speculations were rife as to who could contest from Jamui. On Wednesday, he himself led a roadshow in Jamui to announce the candidature of Bharti.

Also Read: Why the BJP has chosen Chirag Paswan over his uncle, Union minister Pashupati Paras

Bharti is an engineer by profession and a businessman. His mother Jyoti was an MLA and MLC from the Congress. Bharti will file his nomination on Thursday for Jamui, which goes to polls in the first phase on April 19; Thursday is the last day for filing nomination for the first phase.

I assure you all that Bharti Ji will prove himself worthy of you all. I am confident that you will shower your blessings on Bharti Ji the same way you showered on me and he will turn raise the issues of the area as I always did. He will never give you reasons of any complaint, Paswan said at a public meeting on Wednesday.

LJP-R is yet to announce candidates for three seats - Vaishali, Khagaria and Samastipur (reserved). A senior LJP-R leader, who did not wish to be named, said the names for the three remaining seats would be announced soon.

Also Read: In Bihar, Chirag Paswan has the last laugh

Except one, there is very little chance of any sitting MP, who won on the LJP ticket last time, getting a chance to contest again. The seats of Samastipur and Kagaria may get new faces, the leader, quoted above, added.

While Veena Devi is the MP from Vaishali, Prince Raj, son of Ramvilas Paswans brother and former MP late Ramchandra Paswan, represents Samastipur. From Khagaria, Mehboob Ali Kaiser had won last time.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has backed Paswan by giving his party five seats, including the crucial Hajipur seat, and rejected the other faction of the LJP led by his uncle, Pashupati Kumar Paras.

Soon after the 2020 Assembly elections in Bihar, in which the JD-U accused the LJP of playing as the BJPs B team, the LJP had split with Paras walking away with five of the six MPs to form a separate party -RLJP. Later, Paras also got accommodated in the union cabinet.
The Congress on Wednesday released its eighth list of 14 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Congress flags waves at rallies(File)

The list includes the parliamentary constituencies of Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh which will go to polls starting April 19.

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The party on Wednesday held its Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting to discuss the names of the candidates. The party has fielded Dolly Sharma from Ghaziabad while Nakul Dubey has been named as the Congress candidate from Sitapur.

Tatiparthi Jeevan Reddy will contest from Telagana's Nizamabad while Neelam Madhu has been named as the party's candidate from Medak.

Earlier on Tuesday, the grand old party named five candidates for upcoming Lok Sabha elections  four from Chhattisgarh and one from Tamil Nadu.

R Sudha has been named from the Mayiladuthurai Lok Sabha constituency in Tamil Nadu. The Mayiladuthurai constituency was with its ally DMK in the last elections. Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar had been an MP from this constituency thrice earlier.

In Chhattisgarh, the central election committee of the grand old party has decided to field Shashi Singh from Surguja, Menaka Devi Singh from Raigarh, Devender Singh Yadav from Bilaspur and Biresh Thakur from Kanker. Surguja, Raigarh and Kanker are reserved seats for the Scheduled Tribes (ST) in the tribal-dominated state.

Elections 2024:

The elections for the 543 parliamentary constituencies will be held in seven phases, starting on April 19 and culminating on June 1. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. The phase 1 polling will be held on April 19, the second phase on April 26, third phase on May 7, fourth phase on May 13, 5th phase on May 20, 6th phase on May 25 and the last and the 7th phase on June 1.
It is not always necessary to enjoy or enforce certain rights, even though they are guaranteed by the Constitution, the Madhya Pradesh high court observed recently while hearing a petition seeking protection for a teenage couple, who are living together despite objections from their families. HT Image

While an Indore bench of the high court on March 14 granted protection to the couple, both of whom are 19-years-old, citing a Supreme Court judgment, it expressed concern on the choices, the youngsters are making these days.

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Although there is much to ponder over this subject, but it must be remembered that even though certain rights have been conferred by the Constitution, it is not necessary to enjoy, and enforce them as well (sic), a single bench of justice Subodh Abhyankar said.

The court noted that India is not a country where the state provides any allowance to the unemployed and the uneducated ones. If you are not dependent on your parents, you have to earn your own and your partners livelihood and this would naturally obviate possibility of going to a school or a college, and if you get into this struggle of life at an early age by choice, not only your chances of enjoying the other opportunities of life are drastically affected but your acceptance in the society is also reduced, it said.

The court raised concerns over the difficulties the woman may face, in case she turns pregnant at an early age, and advised caution. It is far more difficult for a girl who can also become pregnant at an early age, leading to further complications in her life. Thus, discretion is advised while opting for such choices and enforcing such rights, as it is one thing to have the rights and another to enforce them, it said.

The court, however, granted police protection citing a 2018 Supreme Court judgment which opined that a couple involving two adults have a right to live together, even if they are not legally eligible to marry.

This court is inclined to allow the present petition as despite the fact that both the petitioners are 19-years-old only, and the petitioner no.2 has not even completed 21 years, since he is a major, he is entitled to reside as per his own will, and if he so decides, his choice needs to be protected from external forces, justice Abhyankar said as he directed authorities to provide police protection to the couple.

In their petition, the couple said they are living together in Khargone but fear some action may be taken by the girls family. The boy works as a labourer, according to people aware of their details.

Appearing for the state, advocate Amay Bajaj opposed the couples plea for protection, saying the man had not attained the legal age of marriage. It is submitted that no case for interference is made out. It is also submitted that if such protection is granted, it would not be in the larger interest of the society, and would promote promiscuousness in the society, Bajaj said.
The appointments committee of the Cabinet approved the names of new chiefs for the National Investigation Agency (NIA), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) on Tuesday. Sadanand Vasant Date moves to head the countrys premier investigating agency NIA from his present post as chief of the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (HT)

Maharashtra cadre officer Sadanand Vasant Date who was awarded Presidents medal for Gallantry for saving lives and countering terrorists during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, has been appointed the new NIA chief. Piyush Anand is the new NDRF DG and Rajeev Kumar Sharma is the director general of BPRD. Date and Sharma are from the 1990 batch of the Indian Police Service (IPS) while Anand is from the 1991 batch.

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Date moves to head the countrys premier investigating agency NIA from his present post as chief of the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). He had set a courageous example for the police force when he took on two of the 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives who stormed Mumbai on November 26, 2008.

The officer, then posted as the additional commissioner of police, Central Region, rescued a lift operator held hostage by Ajmal Kasab and Abu Ismail, leader of the 10-man gang at the Cama and Albless Hospital in south Mumbai. Kasab and Ismail who had walked into the childrens hospital after their killing spree at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus were cornered by Date and a small team of Mumbai policemen.

Even as the terrorists opened fire and hurled grenades at them, Date and his team managed to rescue lift operator Chandrakant Tikke who was being used as a human shield by Kasab. Date suffered a blackout in the grenade attack, allowing for Kasab and Ismail to escape. He received injuries to his eyes, throat, chest, right knee and suffered deep wounds on his left ankle. Two men from his team were shot dead by the terrorists before they fled. Within 15 minutes after getting out of the Cama and Albless Hospital, Kasab and Abu Ismail killed the-then ATS chief Hemant Karkare, encounter specialist Vijay Salaskar and additional commissioner of police Ashok Kamte in an adjoining lane.

Weeks before the Mumbai attack, Date had stood up for his men after they killed a 23-year-old man from Patna who had used a country-made revolver inside a double-decker bus to injure one passenger and hold 13 others captive. Rahul Raj, the man from Bihar, had been left enraged after Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackerays strident campaign against Bihari immigrants.

The three officers will take charge on March 31 upon the superannuation of the three current chiefs Dinkar Gupta of NIA, Atul Karwal of NDRF and Balaji Srivastava of the BPRD.

Gupta was earlier the Punjab director general of police (DGP), Karwal was director of the SVP National Police Academy and Srivastava had held additional charge of Delhi police commissioner for nearly a month in 2021.

Ahead of the implementation of the three criminal laws, BPRD is actively involved in training police officers across the country and working to create software that connects police stations across the country. BPRD has, in the last three months, completed training of trainers (ToTs) for almost all police forces. These trainers will train the other police personnel in the new laws.

NDRF with a strength of over 18,000 personnel, is Indias national disaster response force. Last year, the force was involved in the rescue operations at the Silkyara Tunnel in Uttarakhand where 41 workers were trapped, and also assisted in international rescue operations during the Turkey- Syria earthquakes.

Apart from the three appointments, ACC also approved the proposal of the Home Ministry to repatriate 1989 batch officer PV Ramashastri to his parent cadre, Uttar Pradesh. Ramashastri is at present the special DG (operations) in BSF.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena on Wednesday broke his silence on the arrest of CM Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate. Speaking about the CM running the government from prison, VK Saxena said, Delhi government will not be run from jail. Speaking at the Times Now Summit held in the national capital, VK Saxena said, "I can assure the people of Delhi that the government will not be run from jail." Delhi Lt Governor VK Saxena.(HT File)

Delhi mein kaam karna lohe ke chane chabane jaisa hai. In the coming months, we shall be intensifying our efforts to transform Delhi into a world-class capital, he added.

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The governor of Delhi was speaking in the backdrop of statements by Aam Aadmi Party leaders that Arvind Kejriwal will continue as chief minister even if he is behind bars.

Earlier, AAP leader and minister in the Delhi government Atishi ruled out the resignation of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal following his arrest by ED. Atishi said Kejriwal would continue as CM and run the government from jail. We have received news that ED has arrested Arvind Kejriwal... We have always said that Arvind Kejriwal will run the govt from jail. He will remain the CM of Delhi," Atishi said.

Several other AAP leaders also echoed the statements put out by Atishi.

The Delhi CM also issued two orders from the Enforcement Directorate's custody. In his first order he issued directions to water resources minister Atishi to address water scarcity issues of the people. In the second order, he asked health minister Saurabh Bharadwaj to address the shortage of medicines and diagnostic tests at mohalla clinics and hospitals.

The Bharatiya Janata Party hit out at AAP's stance over Kejriwal running the government from prison. BJP leader Manoj Tiwari said, We have seen gangs being run from jail and not the government

"He has given his life to bring Delhi to the brink of misery. The people of Delhi are very angry with him and that's why sweets were distributed after his arrest. His government has done no work in Delhi and they have only looted and filled their pockets. Kejriwal has looted Delhi," he added.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21 (Thursday) in connection with his alleged role in the now-scrapped 2021-22 excise policy.
The dramatic move of Ludhiana member of Parliament Ravneet Singh Bittu from Congress to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Ludhiana. The unexpected development, coming shortly before the announcement of the candidates is not just a big blow to the Congress party, which was banking on Bittu to win a third time in a row, it is also a psychic break for the party who lost a chief minister to an assassination attempt. Bittu, after all, is the grandson of Beant Singh, who was blown up by a suicide bomber in 1995.

Bittu must not only tackle criticism for his move from family but also from close friends like former Punjab cabinet minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu.

Also read: Bharat Bhushan Ashu challenges close pal Ravneet Bittu to contest from Ludhiana

The BJP has been striving to expand its presence in the state and Bittu's move will help achieve that. The signs were present: Bittu spoke out in favour of the Ram Mandir consecration; remained absent from Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge-led workers' convention in Samrala on February 11; and even made statements targeting Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal after he was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) over the Delhi Liquor Licence scam. Bittu was also often outspoken against radicals and the release of Sikh prisoners, while other Congress leaders would refrain from speaking on the issue.

The Congress party has started looking for a replacement  speculations swirl around Ashu, the former state minister of food and civil supplies, and member of Parliament from Anandpur Sahib, Manish Tewari, as the partys pick from Ludhiana.

Shouldering a legacy

Punjab chief minister Beant Singh was assassinated on August 31, 1995, by the radical organisation Babbar Khalsa International, led by Wadhawa Singh. At least 15 people were accused in a suicide bomb attack.

Bittu, who joined politics at the age of 33 in the Youth Congress, was fielded from Sri Anandpur Sahib in 2009. He garnered more than 40% (404,000 votes) of the votes polled in the constituency, and defeated Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) candidate Dr Daljit Singh Cheema. In the 2014 election, the party fielded him from Ludhiana after Manish Tewari had shown reluctance in contesting from Ludhiana seat. Bittu polled over 300,000 votes (27.27% of votes polled). In 2019, he emerged as a winner again from Ludhiana with 383,000 votes (36.66%). He was briefly appointed as leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha when Adhir Ranjan Chowdhary was busy in the West Bengal election campaign in 2021.

Bittu was the torch bearer for the Congress protesting against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bhagwant Mann-led government. He hit the headlines after he put a lock on the main gate of a carcass plant in Nurpur Bet village on January 25 as a form of protest; a month later, on February 27, he also put a lock on the Municipal Corporation building, as a mark of protest supporting the residents of surrounding villages, who sought for the plant where carcasses of cattle were disposed to be shifted.

He was booked by the police in both cases and arrested on March 5 along with Ashu, District Congress president Sanjay Talwar and former senior deputy mayor Sham Sundar Malhotra. All three received bail on the same day. On March 12, a day before CM Bhagwant Mann was to arrive in Ludhiana, Bittu and Talwar were detained for a few hours to prevent any untoward incident.

Speaking of Bittus switch to the BJP, Talwar said that the timing allowed the party space to recover and regroup its resources behind a new candidate. Bittu, for his part, said his switch to the saffron party came out of his desire to do something for Ludhiana residents who sent him to parliament twice. Predicting a majority for the BJP in the upcoming elections, Bittu said that being in opposition would not give him the chances he wanted. He said he wanted to be a bridge between the government and locals, industrialists, as well as the farmers. Bittu opposed the farm laws strongly in the Parliament and indulged in a war of words with former Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal over the now rescinded farm laws. He has also voiced his support for the current farmers protests.

However, his switch has left his family members surprised too. Former cabinet minister Gurkirat Singh Kotli, a cousin, said that Bittu was a responsible man and did not discuss the shift with him. Party leaders said that the move was likely because he wanted to make an impact in Ludhiana, which he couldnt do by staying in the opposition for the past 10 years.

Jagmohan Sharma, a close aide to former chief minister Beant Singh, stated that it was Bittus own decision to switch. Sharma, who had served as District Congress president, switched to the BJP two years ago.
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet on Tuesday approved the appointments of new chiefs for the National Investigation Agency (NIA), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD). The three officers will take charge on March 31 upon the superannuation of the three current chiefs. (Representative file photo)

Maharashtra cadre officer Sadanand Vasant Date has been appointed the new NIA chief, Piyush Anand the NDRF DG and Rajeev Kumar Sharma as the director general of BPRD. Date and Sharma are from the 1990 batch of the Indian Police Service (IPS) while Anand is of the 1991 batch.

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Date, who is from the Maharashtra cadre, was awarded Presidents Medal for Gallantry for his role in saving lives and countering terrorist during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Date is currently heading the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The NIA is the countrys premier investigation agency.

Also Read: NIA raids 30 locations in major crackdown on terrorist-gangster nexus

The three officers will take charge on March 31 upon the superannuation of the three current chiefs Dinkar Gupta of NIA, Atul Karwal of NDRF and Balaji Srivastava of the BPRD.

Gupta was earlier the Punjab director general of police (DGP), Karwal was director of the SVP National Police Academy and Srivastava had held additional charge of Delhi police commissioner for nearly a month in 2021.

Ahead of the implementation of the three criminal laws, the BPRD is actively involved in training police officers across the country and working to create a backend software that connects police stations across the country. The BPRD has in the last three months completed training of trainer (ToT) for almost all police forces. Such ToTs will be training the other police personnel in the new laws.

The NDRF with a strength of over 18,000 personnel is the India national disaster response force.

Last year, the force was involved in the rescue operations at the Uttarakhand tunnel where 41 workers were trapped, the Turkey Syria earthquakes and the flash flood in Sikkim.

Apart from the three appointments, the ACC also approved the proposal of the Home Ministry to repatriate 1989 batch officer PV Ramashastri to his parent cadre - Uttar Pradesh. Ramashastri is currently the special DG (operations) in the BSF.
Ahmedabad: A Gujarat court on Wednesday convicted former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Sanjiv Bhatt for falsely implicating a Rajasthan-based lawyer in a drugs case when he was district superintendent of police (SP) of Banaskantha in 1996. Former IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt was sentenced to life imprisonment in a custodial death case in 2019 by a Jamnagar sessions court. (PTI FILE PHOTO)

This is the second case in which Sanjiv Bhatt has been convicted; the first was in June 2019 when a Jamnagar court sentenced him to life imprisonment in a custodial death case in October 1990.

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Sanjiv Bhatts wife Shweta said her husband was innocent. The court delivered conviction in the case. I will provide further details tomorrow after the court announces the sentencing. This case is entirely fabricated, and my husband had no role in it, Shweta Bhatt told reporters after additional district and sessions judge JN Thakkar delivered a guilty verdict on Wednesday.

The sessions court will pronounce the quantum of punishment on Thursday.

The case relates to a 1996 arrest of a Rajasthan lawyer during Sanjiv Bhatts tenure as Banaskantha SP when drugs were allegedly found in the lawyers hotel room in Palanpur.

Bhatt was alleged to have fabricated evidence against the lawyer by planting 1.5 kg opium in the lawyers room to coerce the lawyer out of a commercial property in Rajasthans Pali town. A probe by the Rajasthan police later revealed that the lawyer was falsely implicated and allegedly abducted by Banaskantha Police from his residence in Pali.

Bhatt along with his subordinate IB Vyas were arrested in September 2018 after the Gujarat high court ordered an inquiry into the matter. Vyas subsequently became an approver in the matter. Bhatt was dismissed from the services in 2015.

Bhat is currently serving life imprisonment in a custody death case in 1990 when he was additional SP in Jamnagar district. In this case, Bhatt detained over 130 individuals under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) after a communal riot after the Bharatiya Janata Party and Vishwa Hindu Parishad called for a Bharat Bandh.

One detainee, Prabhudas Vaishnani, later died in hospital, leading his family to allege custodial torture.

An FIR was registered against Bhatt and other officers for custodial death and cognizance was taken by a magistrate in 1995. Seven police officers including two sub-inspectors and three police constables were accused in this custody death case.

Bhatt approached the Gujarat high court against the sessions court convicting him in the custody death case in 2019. In January this year, the high court upheld his conviction and life sentence.
Ahmedabad The Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad (IIM-A) is considering restoring its storied Louis Kahn-designed red-brick campus, instead of demolishing the buildings as previously planned, several people directly involved in talks about a proposed restoration said, asking not to be named. The restoration work in the campus started in 2014 when IIM-A appointed Mumbai-based firm, Somaya and Kalappa (S&K) Consultants to restore Dorm-15 that was in the most dilapidated state. (Rahul Sheel/Flickr)

We plan to restore as many buildings as possible. The fundamental essence of Louis Kahns visionary design and architecture principles will be preserved as best as possible, said a top IIM-A official.

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The new plan comes a little more than three years after the institutes governing council initially proposed the reconstruction of student dormitories and other structures within the revered campus, hailed as a marvel of modern architecture. Despite encountering widespread global resistance, the administration made a concerted push for consensus, including a town hall meeting last year that engaged various stakeholders.

It isnt clear what prompted the rethink.

The institutes chairman Pankaj Patel declined a request for comment.

An email sent to IIM-A director Bharat Bhaskar and his office for response remained unanswered till the time this paper went to print.

HT learns that, as a first step, the institute plans to have a team of three experts conduct a thorough survey of the campus, assessing the possible need for additional specialists, and overseeing the tendering process for the restoration and conservation efforts.

The team comprises three well-respected experts, according to two other people familiar with the plan: KB Jain, renowned for his collaboration with the American architect Kahn in Philadelphia and known for his expertise in urbanism and conservation; Marina Tabassum, an architect famous for her innovative brick projects from Dhaka, Bangladesh; and Arun Menon, a structural engineering professor from IIT Madras,who worked with a team of architects earlier to restore the IIM-A library.

The two people added that a preliminary meeting involving the three experts and IIM-A officials took place less than a month ago. Jain is likely to be named as the master architect for the IIM-A campus, they said.

One of the three experts confirmed being in discussions with the institute regarding potentially being brought in as part of the team.

In December 2020, the IIM-A governing council proposed to tear down 14 of the 18 student dormitories and replace them with newly constructed dormitories but a global outcry from experts and former students forced the institute to put its decision on hold /

Organizations such as the World Monuments Fund (WMF) called for the IIM-A to re-evaluate the partial demolition of the visionary building complex.

Conceived as an ensemble, the Kahn campus must be preserved in its entirety to protect the aesthetic, functional, and symbolic values imbued within, WMF said on December 30, 2020.

Critics of the demolition expressed deep concern about the loss of architectural heritage and the erasure of Louis Kahns vision. They emphasize the historical and cultural value of the buildings, which are considered emblematic of Kahns design philosophy and should be preserved for future generations to appreciate and learn from architectural history.

These are living buildings after all should be restored to meet todays requirements. It is a complicated process. The term conservation can mean many things  sometimes it may also require some demolition. But overall, it has to remain in tune to the architects vision. I think that IIM-A will find out a solution a years time from now, said an architect aware of the development.

American architect Kahn, at the invitation of scientist Vikram Sarabhai and industrialist Kasturbhai Lalbhai, began work on the campus for IIM-A in 1962 with Indian architects BV Doshi and Anant Raje. The project, realised in brick masonry, was nearly complete when Kahn died in 1974.

Kahn created the architectural masterpiece on about 25 hectares of land in Ahmedabad that constitutes the heritage campus of IIM-A today. It has 18 buildings that were constructed between 1962 and 1974. Some of the notable buildings in the IIM-A campus include the Main Building (also known as the Louis Kahn Plaza), Faculty Block, Dormitories (Dorm 1 to Dorm 18), Library, and the Kasturbhai Lalbhai Management Development Centre (KLMDC).

The restoration work in the campus started in 2014 when IIM-A appointed Mumbai-based firm, Somaya and Kalappa (S&K) Consultants to restore Dorm-15 that was in the most dilapidated state. The work was completed in 2017. Meanwhile the same firm also restored the Vikram Sarabhai Library at IIM-A in 2018 and received an award of distinction at UNESCO Asia Pacific Award for Cultural Heritage.

In November 2022, the IIM-A governing council decided that restoration work at the heritage campus would cease altogether. While the Louis Kahn design with brick facade was to be replicated for a few of the outer dorms, other residential dorms were slated to be redeveloped based on new designs by commissioned architects.

An independent committee that reviewed the IIM-A last year listed key challenges faced by the institute in wake of global competition had pulled up the institute for demolishing iconic dorms without consulting the alumni.

The committee, led by former Nasscom president Kiran Karnik (also an alum), in its 71-page report, underscored several imperative recommendations, including enhancing inclusive decision-making and alumni involvement, improving rankings, prioritising world-class research, ensuring affordability for students, and preserving architectural heritage.

Many alumni are concerned about possible damage to IIM-As reputation as an eminent institution of repute because of its slippage on global rankings and some negative coverage in the media, said the report dated May 12, 2023, which was made public a few months later.

If the management wanted to demolish the buildings and replace them with newer ones, they could have done so in the last 10 months, especially after the townhall event on June 4, 2023, where a team of engineers from IIT-Roorkee highlighted structural soundness and integrity issues in the dormitories and other buildings at multiple locations. The fact that they havent taken such action is evidence enough that there is a reconsideration of the issue, said an IIM-A 1987 batch student.

Supporters of the demolition contend that sentimental attachments to the past should not impede the growth and advancement of IIM-A. They argue for embracing the evolving educational landscape by integrating modern amenities and technologies to enhance the learning experience. From their perspective, the demand for additional space and enhanced functionality outweighs the historical significance of the current structures.

Another student from the 1997 IIM-A PGP batch, shared that they were given assurance by a governing council board member that the institutes priority lies in restoring the buildings rather than demolishing them and replacing them with entirely new designs.

A second architect familiar with the situation said, Conserving modern buildings presents unique challenges compared to heritage structures. Additionally, while significant conservation efforts have been made in stone or steel, there is a noticeable lack of expertise in India regarding brickwork. Established protocols are sparse, and there are few architects equipped to handle such iconic buildings. Furthermore, the complexity of the task often leads management to fatigue, prompting them to resort to short-cuts due to the considerable associated costs.
Although the nomination process for the first phase of polling of the general elections has started, the Congress and Lalu Prasads Rashtriya Janata Dal have not been able to reach a deal on sharing seats in Bihar, one of the key north Indian states with 40 Lok Sabha seats. In the past six months, the bloc of 40 parties that rules nine states has not been able to arrange a single rally with all constituents in attendance. (ANI)

The RJD has unilaterally announced candidates for all four seats going to the polls in the first phase. Congress insiders pointed out that the inclusion of Pappu Yadav, alias Rajesh Ranjan, into their fold has miffed the RJD brass and seat-sharing talks have come to a virtual standstill.

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A senior official close to RJD said, Pappu was all set to join RJD but Congress poached him.

The Yadav community is considered a dedicated vote bank of the RJD and Rajesh Ranjan, a Yadav, has always been an adversary of the RJD.

In West Bengal, the ruling Trinamool Congress pulled the plug on the opposition INDIA bloc and none of its leaders joined Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra despite Congress request to Trinamool supremo Mamata Banerjee to join it. The Congress insisted that Banerjee was invited but she said, As a gesture of courtesy, did they (Congress) let me know that they are coming to Bengal for the yatra? I am not aware of it.

If Bihar and West Bengal paint a fragmented picture of the INDIA bloc at this stage, then at the national level there is limited coordination between the allies, said a non-Congress leader who declined to be named.

The INDIA grouping held its last summit in December. Now, with the alliance facing teething problems in many states, there is no sign of a structured mechanism of crisis management. Even the coordination committee that was formed to tackle such issues have not met since September.

In Maharashtra, where there is an existing alliance between Shiv Sena (UBT), the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP and the Congress, the parties have started announcing candidates individually, but the three parties are yet to come together to formally announce a seat-sharing pact. The five-phase Maharashtra election starts from April 19. It would have been better for the political optics to have a formal seat-sharing in place, a Congress leader from Mumbai said, seeking anonymity.

In states such as Uttar Pradesh, where the Congress has managed to clinch a seat pact with the Samajwadi Party, which is considered a major gain for the INDIA group, there hasnt been a single joint rally so far of the two allies.

It is a difficult situation. We have distributed seats but there is no cohesive effort to reach the people. Without joint campaign, how do we transfer each others votes for our candidates? The political messaging is missing, said a Congress leader from Uttar Pradesh. Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Bengal have polling in all seven phases.

The only time the coordination committee of the INDIA bloc met was on September 13 last year. In that meeting, hosted at NCP supremo Sharad Pawars residence, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal had announced, A series of public rallies of INDIA allies starting with one in Bhopal would be held. He also said, The seat sharing would be finalised at the earliest.

In the past six months, the bloc of 40 parties that rules nine states has not been able to arrange a single rally with all constituents in attendance. In the Jan Vishwas rally in Patna on March 3 organized by the RJD, only Congress, SP, Left parties and the local alliance partners were present.

The next one in Mumbai on March 17, after the culmination of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, saw a much larger attendance with Congress, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), Shiv Sena (UBT), RJD, PDP, DMK and NC leaders.

But an important ally, West Bengal chief minister Banerjee, skipped both the meetings. She also dealt a huge blow to the Congress in West Bengal by putting up candidates in all 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

After the general elections, if the Congress does its job and defeats the BJP on a substantial number of seats, the Trinamool Congress will very much be a part of the front that believes and fights for the Constitution and plurality, Trinamools Rajya Sabha leader Derek OBrien said last month, indicating the alliance is over between the two parties.

The bloc, once a solid pack of 26 parties, has considerably weakened after Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar pulled the plug on the alliance in Bihar and Rashtriya Lok Dal leader Jayant Chowdhury switched sides to join the National Democratic alliance led by the Bharatiya Janata Party.

In states where the Congress still has possible partners, the shape of the seat pacts is still sketchy.

In West Bengal, the party has left some seats for the Left bloc, but has not announced a formal pact. At least five district presidents of the Congress have objected to this and wrote a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi.

It must be noted here that in West Bengal, in perspective of previous elections, (a) the Congress party secured 6% of the total votes same as CPIM [Communist Party of India (Marxist)], (b) In State Legislative Assembly Congress Nil and CPIM is also Nil, (c) In Loksabha Congress has 2 seats and CPIM Nil. But unfortunately CPIM has forcibly declared the names of their candidates for the upcoming 2024 Loksabha election so far. If INC is willing to enter into an alliance with CPIM for said election, such alliance should be respectful for the Congress Party. Otherwise we shall contest alone rather than lowering the image and relevancy of the Congress Party in the State of West Bengal, the letter said.

There is no center to hold the alliance together, since the Congress itself is rife with issues. There is no overarching ideology that acts as a glue as well. The ongoing desertions of various leaders to join BJP only adds to the woes. The diffidence about winnability is making allies look after their self-interest rather than seeing themselves collectively as a part of an opposition coalition, said Banuchandar Nagarajan, an analyst.

Afzal Amanullah, former Bihar cadre IAS officer said, The Congress is not clear on how many seats to contest. It doesnt have candidates. They are searching for candidates. Poaching of Pappu Yadav was a dampener especially when RJD is trying to give good fight against the BJP on caste calculations.
NEW DELHI: India on Wednesday summoned a senior American diplomat to protest against the US state departments call for a fair legal process for arrested Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, just four days after registering a similar protest with Germany. US' acting deputy chief of mission Gloria Berbena arrives at South Block after she was summoned by Ministry of External Affairs over recent US State Department remarks on Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest on Wednesday. (ANI)

The external affairs ministry said in a statement that the government has taken a strong objection to a US state department spokespersons remarks on legal proceedings in India. The statement didnt refer to the summoning of the American diplomat though people familiar with the matter said the US acting deputy chief of mission, Gloria Berbena, was called in to the external affairs ministry.

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In diplomacy, states are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. This responsibility is even more so in case of fellow democracies. It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents, the statement said.

Indias legal processes are based on an independent judiciary that is committed to objective and timely outcomes, and casting aspersions on that is unwarranted, the statement added.

On Monday, a state department spokesperson told Reuters that the US is closely following reports of the arrest of Kejriwal and encourages a fair legal process. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Kejriwal last week for his alleged role in Delhis controversial excise policy for 2021-22 that was later scrapped. His Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has rejected the corruption charges.

We encourage a fair, transparent, and timely legal process for chief minister Kejriwal, the state department spokesperson said.

On Saturday, the German deputy chief of mission, Georg Enzweiler, was summoned to the external affairs ministry for a protest against the position taken by the German foreign ministry on Kejriwals arrest. Enzweiler was told that Germanys stance amounted to interfering in Indias judicial process.

Asked about the arrest at a media briefing on Friday, a spokesperson for the German foreign minister said that Kejriwal, like anyone facing accusations, is entitled to a fair and impartial trial.

We assume and expect that the standards relating to independence of judiciary and basic democratic principles will also be applied in this case, the German spokesperson said.

The external affairs ministry said such remarks were tantamount to interfering in our judicial process and undermining the independence of our judiciary. it added, Biased assumptions made on this account are most unwarranted.

The case against Kejriwal pertains to alleged corruption and money laundering in executing the Delhi governments excise policy for 2021-22, which was subsequently scrapped. ED has claimed AAP leaders allegedly received kickbacks worth 100 crore in the excise policy.

Kejriwals name has been mentioned multiple times in charge sheets filed by the ED. The agency alleged the accused were in touch with Kejriwal to formulate the excise policy.
Emirates has commenced the activation of its fuel agreement with Neste this month at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, under which over 2 million gallons of blended SAF will be supplied into the fuelling system at Schiphol Airport over the course of 2024.

The airline will track the delivery of SAF into the fuelling systems and environmental benefits using standard industry accounting methodologies.

Emirates partnership with Neste, announced late last year, represents one of the largest volumes of SAF that the airline has purchased to date.

Once fully supplied into Amsterdam Schiphols fuelling system, the blended SAF will have been comprised of over 700,000 gallons of neat (unblended) SAF. The airline is also working with Neste to supply SAF into the fuelling systems at Singapore Changi Airport in the next few months.

Adel Al Redha, Deputy President and Chief Operations Officer, Emirates said: Collaborating with committed partners like Neste is one of the practical steps we are taking to reduce our emissions, and its an all-important milestone in our own sustainability journey as an airline.

Strong partnerships like this, especially at major air transport hubs such as Amsterdam, lay the foundation for how we can work with partners and airports to increase access to and availability of SAF across our network.

Alexander Kueper, Vice President Renewable Aviation, Neste said: We are proud to support Emirates in their sustainability journey. SAF is an available solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from air travel and it is exciting that Emirates have started using our Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.

It is also a great example of how we are working together with partners to accelerate SAF usage and are looking forward to the next steps of our cooperation.

SAF used as part of this agreement can be safely dropped into existing jet engines and airport fuelling infrastructure, and in neat form reduces lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to using conventional jet fuel.

Emirates first flight powered by SAF blended with jet fuel took place in 2017 from Chicago. The airline currently operates flights from Paris, Lyon and Oslo with SAF.

In October of last year, Emirates, with the support of partners, also integrated SAF into Dubai Airport fuelling systems, allocating the SAF to a number of flights, including a flight to Sydney.

Earlier this year, the airline became the first international carrier to join the Solent Cluster in the UK, an initiative focused on low carbon investments with the potential to create a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) plant that can produce up to 200,000 tonnes (200 kt) per year if operational by 2032.

Emirates also actively contributes to a number of industry and UAE government working groups and is in continuous discussion with a range of stakeholders to help scale the production and supply of SAF.

The airline, along with the UAE GCAA has actively played a part in developing the UAEs power-to-liquid (PtL) fuels roadmap, driven by the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the World Economic Forum, in addition to contributing to the UAEs National Sustainable Aviation Fuel Roadmap which aims to transform the UAE into a regional hub for alternative aviation fuels with the ambition to produce 700 million litres of SAF by 2030.

Joining entities across aviation, government, regulatory, academic, fuel production and the manufacturer value chain, Emirates is a founding participant of the UAE research consortium Air-CRAFT, focused on developing, producing, and scaling sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) technologies for the industry.  TradeArabia News Service
An IndiGo aircraft brushed the wingtip of a Chennai-bound Air India Express plane with 169 passengers on board when it was awaiting clearance to enter the runway at the Kolkata airport around 10.30am on Wednesday, prompting regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to launch a probe and off-roster two pilots. An IndiGo spokesperson said the aircraft returned to the bay after the incident. (HT PHOTO/Representative)

We have initiated a probe into the incident and have also off-rostered the IndiGo pilots. No passenger was injured in the incident, a DGCA official said.

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An Air India Express spokesperson said the wingtip of a taxiing aircraft of another airline grazed one of their planes, which was stationary and awaiting clearance to fly to Chennai. The aircraft has since returned to the bay and further investigation is underway, for which we are coordinating with the regulator and airport authorities. We apologise for the inconvenience caused to guests due to external circumstances.

An IndiGo spokesperson said that their aircraft was inspected after it returned to the bay after the incident. A minor graze between a taxiing IndiGo aircraft and that of another carrier was reported from Kolkata Airport. The aircraft returned to the bay for inspection and necessary action as per protocol. Consequently, IndiGo flight 6E 6152 between Kolkata and Darbhanga was delayed.

IndiGo said refreshments were provided to all passengers and an alternate aircraft was arranged to minimise delay and inconvenience to the passengers. IndiGo prioritises passenger safety above all else. An incident report will be submitted to DGCA in due course, as per protocol, the IndiGo spokesperson added.

A Kolkata airport official said that Air India Express de-boarded its passengers as the aircraft had to be grounded. The passengers are at the airport and are awaiting the arrival of an alternate aircraft.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Wednesday launched a probe into an incident where an IndiGo aircraft grazed the wings of Air India Express at the Kolkata airport. The incident took place at the Kolkata airport on Wednesday morning.(Image for representation/Bloomberg)

The aviation regulator also put the pilots of the Indigo aircraft off duty.

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According to an Air India spokesperson, the incident took place when the Air India aircraft was awaiting clearance to enter the runway at Kolkata.

The wingtip of a taxiing aircraft of another airline grazed one of our aircraft, which was stationary and awaiting clearance to enter the runway at Kolkata for a scheduled operation to Chennai, the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added that after the incident the aircraft returned to the bay and further investigation is underway, for which the airline is coordinating with the regulator and airport authorities.

"We apologise for the inconvenience caused to guests due to external circumstances, the spokesperson added.
The wings of an IndiGo Airlines plane brushed past an Air India Express jets while taxiing at the Kolkata airport on Wednesday, an incident that led to no injuries or major damage but triggered delays after both planes were taken in for checks. An IndiGo spokesperson said that their aircraft was inspected after it returned to the bay following the incident. (REUTERS)

The civil aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) launched a probe and took off duty the two IndiGo pilots. Their aircraft was taxiing when it came into contact with a stationary Air India Express aircraft, which was waiting to depart to Chennai.

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We have initiated a probe into the incident and have also off-rostered the IndiGo pilots, a DGCA official said. No passenger was injured during the incident, the official added.

The IndiGo flight was meant to depart to Darbhanga around the same time, at 10.30am.

The Air India Express aircraft had 169 passengers on board. It was not immediately clear how many were on the other plane.

The wingtip of a taxiing aircraft of another airline grazed one of our aircraft, which was stationary and awaiting clearance to enter the runway at Kolkata for a scheduled operation to Chennai, said an Air India Express spokesperson.

The aircraft has since returned to the bay and further investigation is underway, for which we are coordinating with the regulator and airport authorities. We apologise for the inconvenience caused to guests due to external circumstances, the spokespersons added.

An IndiGo spokesperson said that their aircraft was inspected after it returned to the bay following the incident.

A minor graze between a taxiing IndiGo aircraft and that of another carrier was reported from Kolkata Airport. The aircraft returned to the bay for inspection and for necessary action, as per protocol. Consequently, IndiGo flight 6E 6152 between Kolkata and Darbhanga has been delayed, an IndiGo spokesperson said.
Bharatiya Janata Party president JP Nadda issued a notice seeking clarification from Bengal BJP leader Dilip Ghosh over his controversial remarks on chief minister Mamata Banerjee. The BJP has written a letter stating that Dilip Ghosh comment was indecent, unparliamentary and against the tradition of the party. BJP MP Dilip Ghosh.(PTI file)

News agency ANI reported that the party strongly condemns such comments. The BJP has also sought an explanation from Dilip Ghosh on this issue.

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Reacting to the notice, Dilip Ghosh told reporters that this was not the first time that he had faced a controversy over his statement, because I speak in front of those who commit injustice.

Many, including the party, said I used unparliamentary language, if it is so then I express my sadness at it...I will give an official reply to the notice, said the BJP leader.

Earlier, the Trinamool Congress filed a complaint with the Election Commission of India against Dilip Ghosh for allegedly making controversial remarks against Mamata Banerjee.

The TMC said Dilip Ghosh violated the Model Code of Conduct by making personal remarks.

Addressing reporters in Durgapur, the BJP MP said wherever Mamata Banerjee goes, she calls herself the daughter of that state, and she must identify her own father.

When Didi (CM Mamata Banerjee) goes to Goa, she calls herself the daughter of Goa. When she goes to Tripura, she says that she is the daughter of Tripura. She should first identify her own father, Dilip Ghosh said.

Citing the clause under the poll code, which states that "no political party or candidate should indulge in any activities or make any statements that would amount to an attack on the personal life of any person or statements that may be malicious or offend decency and morality", the TMC urged the ECI to immediately take action against Dilip Ghosh.

"Mr Ghosh's comments not only cross the boundaries of decency but also perpetuate a culture of misogyny and disrespect towards women in positions of power," the letter to the poll panel read.

The remarks by the BJP leader have drawn sharp criticism from the TMC leaders. Such mentality of BJP leaders humiliates Nari Shakti. He earlier made derogatory remarks against Maa Durga. He should be arrested under the POCSO Act for what he said about Mamata Banerjee, TMC leader Kirti Azad said.

Bengal minister Shashi Panja said Dilip Ghosh is such a petty man and such people should be defeated in the upcoming elections.

(With inputs from ANI)
Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwals arrest dealt a major blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ahead of the April-June national polls. The AAP hopes to get sympathy votes while its rivals expect Kejriwals arrest to work in their favour as they have targeted him from continuing as the chief minister and questioned how would the Delhi administration run in such a situation. Delhi Police use water cannon to disperse BJP workers during protest demanding the resignation of chief minister Arvind Kejriwal. (HT PHOTO)

Kejriwal issues a second order from ED custody

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Kejriwal appeared undeterred as he issued a second order on Tuesday from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody, asking health minister Saurabh Bharadwaj to address the shortage of medicines and diagnostic tests at mohalla clinics and hospitals. The second order was issued a day before the Delhi high court was due to hear Kejriwals plea challenging his arrest in connection with alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. Delhis Tihar Jail officials separately held meetings over the possibility of Kejriwal landing up at Indias largest prison when his ED custody ends.

What next for Varun Gandhi?

Member of Parliament Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Tuesday invited Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Varun Gandhi to join the Congress after the outspoken lawmaker from Uttar Pradeshs Pilibhit was denied a ticket for the Lok Sabha polls.He praised Gandhis leadership and clean image, suggesting the BJP denied him a ticket due to his Gandhi family connection. Jitin Prasada has replaced Varun Gandhi as the BJPs nominee from Pilibhit. Prasada, who defected to the BJP from Congress in 2019, was elected to the Uttar Pradesh assembly in 2021.

Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav maintained his party doors were open for all when asked about the denial of BJP ticket to Varun Gandhi. Bhagwat Saran Gangwar, the SPs candidate for Pilibhit, on Thursday said he would be happy to make way for Varun Gandhi if the party chose him. Pilibhit will go to polls during the first phase of voting on April 19. March 27 is the last day for nomination for this phase.

Pre-poll violence in West Bengal

What Bengal thinks today, India thinks tomorrow, said Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a national movement leader about the state known for its rich culture and home to icons such as Tagore and Subhas Chandra Bose. Poll violence has, however, over the decades sullied the states image. Some argue that the need to control the panchayats and gram sabhasthe critical balancing force in Bengals political structureis the main reason for violence. Other blamed the legacy of the Lefts rule.

At least five people were injured in clashes between workers of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the BJP at Kumirmari, an island in the Sunderbans, ahead of the general elections. Violence has also reported from South 24 Parganas and Murshidabad districts since Monday

Mayawatis political choices

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati, who is fighting for survival, is working on a coalition of Dalit-Muslim-Other Backward Class-upper castes to regain lost ground. Mayawatis choice of candidates reflects careful caste calculus and the message that her support is wide-based and across castes. A Congress leader on Tuesday said her move to field significant Muslim candidates could hurt the prospects of the SP-Congress alliance in Uttar Pradesh.

Mani Shankar Aiyar out of the poll race in Tamil Nadu

The Congress on Tuesday named five more candidates for Lok Sabha elections  four in Chhattisgarh and one in Tamil Nadu. R Sudha has been named as the Congress candidate from Tamil Nadus Mayiladuthurai. Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam contested Mayiladuthurai constituency in 2019. Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar represented the constituency thrice earlier.

Sitharaman versus Ramesh

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday hit back at Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh after he questioned her over Atal Pension Yojana, calling it a poorly designed scheme. Ramesh, who shared an article claiming Atal Pension Yojana accounts were being opened without approval, called the scheme a paper tiger that needs officials to hoodwink and coerce people into participating in it. Its a fitting representation of the Modi Governments policymaking: headline management, with few benefits actually reaching the people! Ramesh said in a post on X.
Delhi minister Atishi on Wednesday said the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will benefit the AAP electorally in the Lok Sabha polls as the party is getting a lot of sympathy. AAP leader Atishi (AFP)

In an interview with PTI, Atishi termed the arrest of Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate in an excise policy-linked money laundering case as an attack on democracy that was "never seen before" in the democratic history of the country.

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"The good thing is that it has benefited us electorally," she said, adding before the arrest of Kejriwal, the result of Lok Sabha polls was a forgone conclusion as people were of the view that the BJP was going to win.

"But after Kejriwal's arrest, the level of public sympathy has gone up for us. There is just one sentiment that the BJP has gone one step too far. So, I would feel it has benefitted us electorally," Atishi told PTI.

She said the upcoming Lok Sabha polls have become a 'People vs BJP' election.

"This election has become a very different kind of election. This is no longer an 'AAP vs BJP' or 'INDIA bloc vs BJP' election. After the arrest of Kejriwal, this is a 'People vs BJP' election," she said.

READ | Arvind Kejriwal greedy: BJP lambasts Delhi CM's second order from jail

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21 in the Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case and subsequently remanded in the agency's custody till March 28 by a court here.

Asked how the party will run its campaign for the Lok Sabha polls in Kejriwal's absence, Atishi said the current situation was not just about the AAP but other opposition parties as well.

How can free and fair elections be held in the country when the BJP is attacking the opposition parties, she said.

"After the announcement of the general elections, you (BJP) pick up one of the most prominent opposition leaders, you have the office of a political party sealed, and you have the bank accounts of a political party frozen," Atishi said, referring to Kejriwal's arrest, the alleged sealing of the AAP office in Delhi and the Congress' allegation that its bank accounts were frozen.

"So, if you are not going to let the opposition parties contest the elections, what kind of a free and fair election will there be... what type of democracy is there in the country," she said.

READ | No interim relief for Arvind Kejriwal from Delhi HC, next hearing on April 3

Atishi, the minister with the maximum number of portfolios in the Delhi government, said the Delhi chief minister's arrest was an attack on democracy and unheard of in the history of democratic India.

"This is the kind of thing you hear happening in Bangladesh after the announcement of elections, all opposition leaders are sent to jail. We heard recently in Pakistan that all leaders of Imran Khan's party were put in jail before the elections. This is something that happens in far-flung African countries like North Sudan where the party in power puts all opposition leaders in jail and then elections happen," she said.

The prevailing situation raises "very serious questions" regarding the democratic institutions in the country, all constitutional offices, and whether there are going to be free and fair elections in the country, she said.

Atishi claimed that the people were witnessing an "erosion" of democratic institutions of the country that has been building up over the last two years.

"The arrest of Kejriwal and AAP leaders and workers protesting against it -- all these circumstances are also making the people of the country realise that something is very seriously wrong with what is going on," she said.

Atishi slammed the arrest of top AAP leaders, saying the Enforcement Directorate and Central Bureau of Investigation, despite their two-year probe, failed to find even a single rupee of ill-gotten wealth in the alleged excise policy scam.

"There is no corrupt money, no proceeds of crime that have come to the AAP. Instead, a liquor retailer paid 60 crore to the BJP through electoral bonds," she said.

"The BJP would be an accused in the excise policy matter and (party chief) J P Nadda and not Arvind Kejriwal would be in jail had there been an independent investigation," she claimed.

She said an attempt was being made by the BJP to keep Kejriwal behind bars before the Lok Sabha polls as "Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not want free and fair elections in the country.

She further claimed that institutions like the ED, CBI, and Income Tax Department were being used to finish the opposition parties in the country, saying the AAP was seeking an appointment with the Election Commission for days but it was not materialising.

She also charged that the Delhi Police was not giving permission to the Aam Aadmi Party to hold a rally of Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) leaders at the Ramleela grounds on March 31.
A 25-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly beating his two-and-a-half-year-old daughter to death in Malappuram district of Kerala, prompting the high court to initiate suo motu proceedings to formulate a protocol for police to intervene in such cases before things get dire, police said on Tuesday. Police suspect that the accused assaulted his daughter due to an ongoing dispute with his wife, who was not present at the time of the incident. (Getty Images)

According to the police, the incident was reported from Udirampoyil area of Malappuram district on the afternoon of March 24, when accused Mohammed Fayiz brought his daughter Nasrin to a hospital in Wandoor for treatment, claiming that she had choked on her food.

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According to the doctors who conducted the autopsy, the cause of the childs death was clotting inside the brain. Her ribs have also been found to be broken, indicating severe assault, Kalikavu station house officer Sasidharan Pillai told HT over the phone.

There were also several external injuries on the childs body indicating that she was assaulted for at least a week, the officer said, adding that the doctors subsequently informed the police.

The accused, Mohammed Fayiz, was arrested last night (Monday) and we have produced him in court today. He has been booked under Section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code, and Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act, Pillai said

Police suspect that the accused assaulted his daughter due to an ongoing dispute with his wife, who was not present at the time of the incident. They were having marital disputes which could have led Fayiz to commit the crimes on his daughter. In the past, his wife had filed a police complaint stating that he was not providing for her and the family. The complaint was later withdrawn after they reached a settlement amicably, an officer familiar with the matter said.

A relative of the accused, who stayed in the neighbourhood, accused Fayiz of regularly beating his daughter.

He would beat her regularly and we could hear her cries. When we questioned his actions, he would ask us not to interfere. He and his family would never take the child out of the house for us to see her condition, he told reporters, requesting anonymity.

On Tuesday, the Kerala high court initiated suo motu proceedings in the case, saying that the fact that such an incident occurred in Kerala was shocking.

The factum of such an event happening in our state shocks our conscience and certainly must be an eye-opener, the Justice Devan Ramachandran said.

When children are involved and they are the victims of any such violence I am certain that this court is enjoined to act under the parents patriae jurisdiction not withstanding whether the perpetrator is the father or any other near relative. This court cannot ignore the cries of the young child who must have suffered immeasurably when being attacked particularly if the news reporting is accurate that he has suffered extensive damage to his ribs and to his internal organs. This pains this court indescribably. I am therefore of the firm view that there should be some protocol so that the police is in a position to intervene when any such incident is brought to light. For this purpose, I propose a suo motu action and I propose that the respondents be the State Police Chief, the Superintendent of Police Malappuram and the concerned Station House Officer,news portal Bar and Bench quoted the judge as saying.

The Registry was consequently directed to obtain formal orders from the Chief Justice and list the matter as a suo motu writ petition next week.
Continuing to protest Arvind Kejriwal's arrest, leaders of his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday demonstrated outside the Delhi assembly, turning up in yellow T-shirts for the stir. The T-shirts had the slogan Main Bhi Kejriwal (I am also Kejriwal) printed on the back. AAP leaders protesting at Delhi assembly (ANI)

The AAP members, including ministers Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj, and others, also decried dictatorship under prime minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah. Additionally, they demanded the release of their national convenor, who is also Delhi's chief minister.

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The yellow colour is associated with freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, who is idolised by the AAP. The slogan Inquilab Zindabad (long live the revolution), popularised by Bhagat Singh, is often invoked by leaders of the Kejriwal-led party.

Wednesday's demonstration, meanwhile, was carried out ahead of a Delhi assembly session that was to be held on March 22. Following Kejriwal's arrest, the session was postponed to March 27, i.e. today. This is also the first assembly session after Kejriwal was jailed.

The AAP national convenor was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 in connection with the alleged scam in the now-scrapped Delhi liquor policy. The arrest came after he skipped all nine summons issued to him by the central agency, and on the eve of the Lok Sabha polls. Kejriwal and AAP have repeatedly claimed innocence, and called the ED's action a witch-hunt by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government.
A 36-year-old Nepali woman, who is the daughter of a mayor in Nepal, has gone missing in Goa. Gopal Hamal, mayor of the Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city, said his daughter, Aarti, a follower of Osho meditation, had been staying in Goa for the past few months. Aarti Hamal was last seen on Monday night.(Facebook/GopalHamal)

She was last seen on Monday night around 9.30pm in the vicinity of Ashvem Bridge.

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"My elder daughter, Aarti, is an Osho meditator who has been living in Goa for a few months. However, I have received a message from her friend stating that she has lost contact with Aarti Zorba Vibes Ashwem Breeze since yesterday. I humbly request that those who live in Goa assist in the search for my daughter, Aarti," Gopal Hamal posted on X.

He also said that his younger daughter Arzoo Hamal and son-in-law are flying to Goa to look for Aarti. "I sincerely request that you contact 9794096014 / 8273538132 / 9389607953 to provide the necessary assistance in the search for my daughter," he wrote on X.

Meanwhile, Arzoo Hamal took to social media and said that according to some callers, her sister was last spotted at a bridge near Siolim.

We have received more than 500 calls since we left from Nepal to Lucknow. We are still getting calls even post 12:00am. Some of the people have been very helpful and we are eternally grateful to them. According to some callers she was last spotted at a bridge near siolim. Few of them believe that she was taken to a hospital from there in an ambulance as she was found unconscious while the others have been saying that she was taken to the police station.

She added: Our well-wishers who have reached out and are trying to help have been looking in hospitals and police stations in and around that area. But nothing has really been clear so far.

Arzoo also said that a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed by the Goa Police in connection with the case.
Sadanand Date, who takes over as the new National Investigation Agency (NIA) chief, has served in many top positions in the city and state, but it was his close encounter with two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives during the November 26, 2008, terrorist attacks in Mumbai that he will be most remembered for.

Abu Ismail led a gang of 10 LeT operatives that reached the city from Karachi by sea and created mayhem for the following 48 hours, killing 166 people and injuring more than 300. Ajmal Amir Kasab was the sole 26/11 attacker to be arrested alive and after a trial, was found guilty of waging war against India, among other charges, and hanged to death.

Date, who was posted in Mumbai as additional commissioner of police (Central Region) at the time, took on Kasab and Ismail on the rooftop of the Cama and Albess hospital, where the two terrorists went after opening fire inside the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST).

Date stepped out of his official residence in Malabar Hill as news spread about the terrorist attack on the city, like several other brave police personnel. He collected a Carbine rifle from a police station in South Mumbai and set out with a small team towards the hospital after learning over the radio that two terrorists had entered the newly built six-storey building in the hospital complex. The two went on to kill seven people and injure 10 others, including Date and his team.

Around 11.00 pm, Date reached the hospital along with his personal staff and a small team of policemen attached to the nearby Azad Maidan police station. The two terrorists opened gunfire using AK-56 rifles and hand grenades, as the cops reached the sixth floor. A grenade landed near Dates foot, injuring the team. Date reportedly fell unconscious, receiving injuries in his eye, throat, chest, and right knee as well as deep wounds on his left ankle. He was moved to KEM Hospital in Parel for treatment  by then the terrorists had fled.

Mohan Shinde, a head constable at the Azad Maidan police station, who was part of Dates team, later recalled how they engaged Ismail and Kasab for around 45 minutes. One bullet hit the lift and got lodged in my abdomen. I fired two rounds but couldnt lift my hand after I got hit. Two colleagues, constable Vijay Khandekar and sub-inspector Prakash More, were killed. The terrorists managed to escape after injuring all of us, said Shinde.

Twenty minutes after leaving the hospital, Kasab and Ismail killed the then Anti-Terrorism Squad chief Hemant Karkare, inspector Vijay Salaskar and additional commissioner of police Ashok Kamte in an adjoining lane, before using their police van as a getaway vehicle.

Born December 14, 1966, Date is an officer of the 1990 batch of the Indian Police Service. He has held several important posts at both the state and national levels, including serving as deputy inspector general of police in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). He completed a postgraduate course in commerce and has a doctorate from Pune University. Date is also a qualified cost and management accountant and attended the University of Minnesota as part of the Hubert H Humphrey fellowship programme and learnt about white-collar and organised crimes in the United States. On his return to India, he was posted as additional commissioner of police, Economic Offences Wing of the Mumbai police. He was awarded the President's Medal in 2007. He was also the first commissioner of police for the Mira-Bhayandar and Vasai-Virar police commissionerate. His last posting was as the director general of the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad.
NEW DELHI: The Indian Army and Centre have rebutted allegations of discrimination and gender bias in the promotion of women officers to the post of colonel vis-a-vis their male counterparts, underlining that the army has acted in the interest of gender neutrality without compromising on merit or previous policies on promotion. The Supreme Court told the Indian Army to file the affidavit on March 4. (HT FILE PHOTO)

There has been no discrimination on the basis of gender and the women officers have been considered for promotion on their own merits, the army and the central government said in an affidavit filed jointly on March 7 following a petition by some army officers alleging discrimination in promotion.

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The affidavit will come up for consideration before a bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud on April 1.

This is the third time the army has faced allegations of discrimination and gender bias before the top court. In February 2020, the Supreme Court ordered a level playing field for women short service commission (SSC) officers vis-a-vis their male counterparts for permanent commission, rejecting the Centres stand on their physiological limitations as being based on sex stereotypes and calling it gender discrimination against women. The apex court directed that all serving SSC women officers have to be considered for permanent commission irrespective of them having completed 14 years or, as the case may be, 20 years of service within three months.

In March 2021, the Supreme Court also struck down the discriminatory yardsticks applied to women while denying them permanent commission.

Since the 2021 verdict, 244 women officers succeeded in getting permanent commission in the respective arms/services of the army and were up for empanelment for promotion to colonel.

The Special No. 3 Selection Board, which was set up to promote women officers from the rank of lieutenant colonel to colonel, considered their case in January 2023 and empanelled only 108 women officers. Nearly 30 among the 136 women officers who failed to make it filed a contempt petition in the top court last year accusing the army of violating the courts previous orders.

Following the Supreme Courts directions on November 3, 2023, 12 more women officers made it to the rank of colonel out of a vacancy pool of 42. In their contempt plea, the women officers said the army was considering them along with the women officers who stood empanelled in the earlier round held in January 2023. They further claimed that such a rule was not adopted for similarly promoting male officers.

The armys affidavit said it had acted in a bona fide manner and in line with the laid down policies applicable to all officers of Indian Army uniformly, including women officers.

The army rejected that it had discriminated against the women officers. In case of male officers, till date no Special No 3 Selection Board is held nor any waiver is given to them which is given to women officers. It added that the male officers were considered by regular selection board.

An officer is permitted three chances for empanelment and any other consideration beyond the mandated 3 chances is governed by special review.

In their counter-affidavit filed through lawyer Rakesh Kumar on March 17, the women officers insisted that the army had discriminated against them in more ways than one. The respondents failed to take into account that due to gender discrimination and absence of any career progression for women officers, most of the women officers were forced to get voluntary release from service due to which batch strength of women officers became very low, the women officers said.

This reduced the opportunities for women officers since the vacancies were allocated on the basis of batch strength, the counter-affidavit said. It added that their empanelment be reconsidered by the Special No 3 Selection Board, arguing that the board meeting pursuant to the courts November 3 order was held in a highly clandestine manner and no observer was appointed from the officers as was the practice in all selection board proceedings convened in the past.

They further reasoned that since they have exhausted their three chances for consideration of empanelment, the policy applicable for special review will apply to them where the lowest merit of the officer empanelled from their batch would serve as the benchmark for any fresh empanelment.

The army, however, stressed that the women officers would not qualify under Special Review and faulted them for assuming that all existing vacancies for colonel were to be exhausted as per the November 3 order. At present, 22 vacancies remain and these are for considering the women officers from 2007 to 2009 batches who are yet to be considered for empanelment.

The question of willfully defying the order of this court does not arise as respondents belong to disciplined forces and are law-abiding citizens of India, the army affidavit, filed on behalf of the chief of army staff, chief of defence staff and military secretary, said

The army said it has complied with the November 3, order that required the selection board to apply a common cut-off of June 1, 2021, for reckoning their confidential reports. Further, the army said that the already empanelled officers were included to ensure that their seniority is not affected in any manner, as held by the top courts November 3 direction.

In the course of the March 4 hearing, the bench indicated that it was not prima facie convinced that a case of contempt was made out and asked the centre to file a short affidavit on the criteria. Once we find that the process was fair, we will leave it. You file a short affidavit indicating what was the criteria followed for empanelment of male officers.
The Delhi high court on Wednesday did not allow any interim relief to Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal who is in the custody of the Enforcement Directorate as the high court only issued notices regarding Kejriwal's plea and posted the matter for further hearing on April 3. A bench of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma issued a notice to the ED on Arvind Kejriwal's plea seeking immediate release and declaring his arrest and remand as illegal and asked the agency to reply within April 2. Delhi high court did not provide any interim relief to Kejriwal. (ANI)

The high court rejected the contention of senior advocate AM Singhvi who appeared for Kejriwal and argued that no reply from ED was required. The court said it is duty-bound to hear both sides fairly keeping in mind the principles of natural justice and hence ED's reply is essential and crucial to decide the present case.

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Kejriwal arrest news: Follow LIVE updates

Thus, having regard to the nature of issues raised in this petition, this Court is of the opinion that the respondent has to be granted an opportunity to file a reply, as an opportunity for effective representation, and declining this opportunity would amount to denial of fair hearing as well as violation of one of the principles of natural justice i.e., audi- alteram partem, which is applicable to both the parties and not one, the court said.

Meanwhile, the ED is likely to produce Kejriwal in a court on Thursday as his present remand will conclude tomorrow. The ED arrested Kejriwal last Thursday in connection with the Delhi liquor probe and sought a six-day custody starting from March 22. ED may seek an extension of Kejriwal's custodial remand or seek court directions for sending him into judicial custody.

Kejriwal's health concern

According to officials, Kejriwal, who is a diabetic patient, has been experiencing fluctuating sugar levels. His sugar level went as low as 46, sources said without disclosing when it was measured.

Kejriwal's wife Sunita addressed a press meeting on Wednesday and said Kejriwal's health has deteriorated in the ED custody.

Hopes were pinned on high court's order today as Kejriwal urged the court to order his immediate release from ED custody as his arrest on the cusp of elections was against the basic structure of the Constitution, "My prayer is release me now," Kejriwal's counsel Singhvi told the court. Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing for the agency, said the "bulky" petition was served upon them only on Tuesday, and three weeks' time should be given to bring their stand on record. For interim relief as well, appropriate time should be given to respond, he said. Singhvi alleged that the request to file a response was motivated and a delay tactic. Challenge is to the foundation of arrest and there are several "glaring issues" that need immediate decision by the high court either way, the senior lawyer added. "Democracy itself is involved. Basic structure is involved. Level playing field is involved. Even an hour spent in custody is far too long if arrest is illegal," Singhvi said.
Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday was unable to get instant relief from the Delhi high court against his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) last week, prolonging the legal battle over his alleged involvement in the Capitals controversial 2021-22 excise policy that is playing out just weeks ahead of the general elections. AAP MLAs protest at the Delhi Assembly against the arrest of CM Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate in New Delhi, India. (Hindustan Times)

Undermining his hopes of getting a reprieve before he is produced before a special court on Thursday after his six-day ED custody is up, the high court posted his petition for a hearing on April 3, emphasising the need for a response from the federal agency to address the legal and validity issues raised in the CMs petition.

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A single-judge bench of justice Swarana Kanta Sharma issued notice on his plea seeking release and declaring his arrest and remand as illegal, but underlined that no order could be issued to grant any immediate relief to Kejriwal until ED was given reasonable time to respond to his petition as well as the plea for interim relief.

This court is of the opinion that the present petition raises several issues of legality and validity regarding the arrest and remand of the petitioner. In this courts opinion, such important questions and issues cannot be summarily heard and decided, by giving opportunity to only one party to file petition, documents...especially when copy of the petition was provided to the Directorate of Enforcement yesterday, said the judge in her 10-page order.

Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 by ED, hours after the Delhi high court denied his request for interim protection from arrest  a stunning turn of events that left the Capitals politics in turmoil and pushed to new heights the ongoing conflict between the Union government and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

His supporters have decried his arrest as a politically motivated move aimed at tarnishing his image ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. ED maintains Kejriwals arrest was based on substantial evidence linking him to the alleged money laundering activities associated with the excise policy.

The AAP has insisted that Kejriwal will continue as CM and he has issued two orders from jail. After Kejriwals arrest, the level of public sympathy has gone up for us. There is just one sentiment that the BJP has gone one step too far. So, I would feel it has benefitted us electorally, minister Atishi told PTI news agency. The party has also held several protests across the Capital and is planning a mega Opposition rally on March 31.

HC stresses on fairness of process

The high court highlighted the significance of allowing both parties to present their arguments fully, stating that the issues raised in the petition filed on Saturday (March 23) were complex and required thorough consideration. Justice Sharma underlined the importance of fairness in the legal process, asserting that denying ED an opportunity to respond would violate principles of natural justice.

It will be unfair to not give an opportunity to ED to rebut the same by way of filing of a detailed response...and declining this opportunity would amount to denial of fair hearing as well as violation of one of the principles of natural justice, said the court, asking the agency to file its replies both to the petition filed by Kejriwal as well as the application for instant relief by April 2.

Justice Sharma held that EDs reply was essential and crucial to decide the present case, rejecting a contention by Kejriwals legal team, led by senior counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, that no formal reply is required to be filed by the agency and that the court should immediately decide the plea for interim relief.

It also highlighted that any order to release Kejriwal will mean granting him interim bail while he had filed a writ petition before the high court to assail his arrest and detention. The writ jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution of India is not a ready substitute for recourse to the remedy of bail under Section 439 of the CrPC (Criminal Procedure Code) ordinarily, said the judge in her order.

Noting that Kejriwals petition itself stated that it had to be read as part of the application for instant relief, the court said that it would not be legally sound to decide the application alone without considering the contentions in the main petition. It added Singhvi too read out from the main petition while he argued the application.

In court documents, ED has called the CM kingpin and key conspirator of the alleged Delhi excise policy scam.

Kejriwal was the third major AAP leader to be arrested in the probe after his former deputy and senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia as well as the partys Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh. ED also arrested Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader and Telangana lawmaker K Kavitha in the case on March 15.

Kejriwal has rejected the charges.

The fact that the petitioner was arrested without any interrogation or questioning  clearly shows that the present proceedings of arrest are pre-meditated and nothing but an act of political vendetta to skew the balance and level-playing field in the general elections, 2024. The only basis of grounds of arrest is managed and procured statements which have been obtained under an arrangement, his petition argued.

Kejriwals team questions timing

During the proceedings on Wednesday, Kejriwals legal team, led by Singhvi, argued against the necessity of his arrest, questioning the timing and alleging misuse of power by the ED. Singhvi highlighted procedural irregularities and emphasised that the CMs cooperation with the investigation had been forthcoming.

Singhvi submitted that the arrest of a sitting CM at the cusp of elections and at a time when model code of conduct (MCC) was in force was bad and impinged the doctrine of basic structure, as it disturbed the level playing field. Singhvi added that ED currently was at non-trial preliminary intermediate stage of investigation and thus there was no necessity to arrest the CM only based on some alleged materials.

He further argued that though Kejriwal had asked ED to give him a questionnaire and allow him to appear virtually, the probe agency never tried that, adding his arrest was only based on the statement of the accused person who later turned approvers  repeatedly called Jaichands by Singhvi.

Singhvi added that his client cannot be vicariously liable for a specific offence understand Section 70 of the PMLA which only relates to companies. AAP which is a political party under Section 2(f) of the Representation of People Act, 1951, cannot be held to be a company as ED alleged in grounds of arrest, said Singhvi.

The senior counsel also contended that the excise policy in question was made in a transparent manner after deliberation with various secretaries, officers of excise, planning, finance and law departments, and thereafter approved by ministers and L-G of Delhi. It was an economic policy decision and not subject to review, said Singhvi.

Senior counsel Amit Desai and Vikram Chaudhary also appeared for Kejriwal and sought to make submissions, but additional solicitor general (ASG) SV Raju objected to the AAP convener being represented by more than one senior counsel, as is the convention. After he said that ED would also have to bring two more lawyers to represent it if the court were to allow three senior counsel for Kejriwal, Desai and Chaudhary chose not to argue.

In response to Singhvis submissions, ASG Raju sought time to file a reply, accusing Kejriwals legal team of deliberate delay tactics. Raju asserted the probe agencys right to be heard and emphasised the need for a fair legal process.

It was a deliberate delay on their part to see that the copy was given to me only at the last minute. They are talking about the level playing field, but when it comes to practice, there is a double standard. We had written them emails on Sunday and Monday, but they deliberately did not give us copies, the law officer said. Raju added that the agency has the right to file a detailed reply and to be heard before passing any order.

Responding to the objections, Singhvi submitted that EDs attempt to file reply in the plea despite everything being on record was a motivated delaying tactic to say let the CM rot in jail and ensure that the petition is rendered infructuous. He also added that the there was no requirement of issuing notice to the probe agency since the grounds of arrest and the March 22 order are on record and clearly reflect EDs stand as far as Kejriwals arrest is concerned.

But the court order, released later in the day, turned down Singhvis submissions, stating that the court is duty bound to hear both sides fairly keeping in mind the principles of natural justice.
Normalcy in bilateral ties with China will only be achieved based on the traditional deployment of troops and that will be the prerequisite for the relationship going forward with Beijing, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Wednesday. Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyan Jaishankar(AP)

"My first duty to Indians is to secure the border. I can never compromise on that," Jaishankar said while responding to a question on the current state of India's relations with China during his interaction with the Indian diaspora here in the Malaysian capital.

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He said every country wants "good relations with its neighbours. Who doesn't? But every relationship has to be founded on some basis."

"We're still negotiating with the Chinese. I talk to my counterpart. We meet from time to time. Our military commanders negotiate with each other. But we are very clear that we had an agreement. There is a Line of Actual Control. We have a tradition of not bringing troops to that line. Both of us have bases some distance away, which is our traditional deployment place. And we want that normalcy," he said.

"So that normalcy that returns to where we are in terms of the troop deployment will be the basis for the relationship going forward. And we've been very, very honest with the Chinese about it," Jaishankar said.

He said that in the case of China, the relationship has been difficult for a variety of reasons, including the fact that the two sides have a boundary dispute.

"But despite the boundary dispute over the many years, we actually built up a substantial relationship because we agreed that while we will negotiate the boundary dispute, both of us will agree that we will not bring soldiers in large numbers to the boundary. And we will never have a situation where there'll be violence and bloodshed on the contrary," he said.

So this understanding which started in the late 1980s, actually was reflected in several agreements. And those agreements gave the relationship stability based on which in other areas, the relationship went forward, he said.

"Now, unfortunately, for reasons which are still not clear to us, these agreements were broken in 2020. And we actually had violence and bloodshed on the border," Jaishankar said.

Ties between India and China nose-dived significantly following the deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in June 2020 that marked the most serious military conflict between the two sides in more than four decades.
At least three temperature datasets  those produced by Berkeley Earth, NASA, and the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) -- have shown that the 12-month running mean of global temperature breached the 1.5C warming threshold for the first time at some point in the past year. While this does not mean that the Paris Agreements goal of keeping global warming within 1.5C (over pre-industrial levels) has been breached, the past year is definitely a big leap towards that. If that were not bad enough for global climate, the world is on the cusp of another temperature milestone on March 28. It is almost certain that by March 28, the worlds daily sea surface temperature (SST) would have stayed the warmest (compared to the same day in other years) for 364 of the past 365 days. Here are three charts that describe how unprecedented SST warming was in the past year and how that happened.

This underwater photograph shows light penetrating the water surface in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Batroun city (AFP FILE)
Union Minister Anurag Thakur slammed the Congress party after demeaning remarks against BJP candidate and actress Kangana Ranaut sparked a political row. Thakur said that Congress and Rahul Gandhi are against shakti, and hence are against women, sisters and daughters. BJP candidate and actress Kangana Ranaut (PTI)(PTI)

A political row erupted when derogatory comments against Kangana Ranaut were posted on the social media handle of senior Congress leader Supriya Shrinate. However, the Congress leader claimed that the comments were not posted by her, but by someone else who had access to her accounts.

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While BJP demanded that Shrinate be sacked from her post in the party, Union Minister Anurag Thakur took a jibe at Rahul Gandhi, saying that his party is against women.

The union minister said, Mahila ka apmaan, nahi sahega Hindustan.' Congress made its intentions clear since day one when party leader Rahul Gandhi said that he would fight against 'Shakti', therefore, when they talk about fighting against 'Shakti' it means against women, sisters and daughters.

The sort of comment that has been made by a Congress Spokesperson is 'unfortunate' and it will not be tolerated by Himachali and Indians, he added.

Former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Jairam Thakur also condemned the remarks made against Ranaut, saying everyone is agitated after comments made against Mandi's daughter.

The ex-CM said, "A very unfortunate remark has been made by Supriya Shrinate against Kangana Ranaut. Not just Kangana, but the way she spoke about Mandi is absolutely wrong. 'Mandi' does not mean what she has said. It is the land of Mandavya Rishi. It is named 'Mandi' after Rishi Mandavya..."

ECI's show cause notice to Supriya Shrinate

After the derogatory remarks against Kangana Ranaut sparked a political row, the Election Commission of India issued a show cause notice to Congress leader Supriya Shrinate for violating the provisions of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

The show cause notice was sent to Shrinate after a complaint was filed with the ECI by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which fielded Ranaut from the Mandi constituency in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The Commission has found the comments to be 'undignified and in bad taste' and prima facie violative of the provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and Commission's advisory dated March 1, 2024. The Commission has sought her response by March 29, 2024, by 5:00 PM.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has so far declared names for 24 out of 25 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan  only Bhilwara seat is left. The party has tried to balance caste equations while distributing the seats, giving tickets to seven Jats, four Rajputs, two Brahmins, two OBCs, one Vasihya, one Gurjar. Four sets are reserved for SC and three are reserved for ST (Agencies)

With new leaders coming to the forefront in the state, the ticket distribution indicates that a power shift has taken place, according to people familiar with the developments.

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The party has tried to balance caste equations while distributing the seats, giving tickets to seven Jats, four Rajputs, two Brahmins, two OBCs, one Vasihya, one Gurjar. Four sets are reserved for SC and three are reserved for ST.

In its list declared on Tuesday, the party dropped sitting MP Jaskaur Meena from Dausa and fielded Kanhaiya Lal Meena while MP Manoj Rajoria was dropped from Karauli Dholpur and ticket was given to Indu Devi Jatav.

In its earlier lists also, the party has sprung surprises, giving tickets to Congress defectors or to new faces. Even though the BJP has been championing womens empowerment, the party has fielded only four women candidates.

The message from the party is clear that a power shift has taken place in Rajasthan and a new younger leadership is taking the reins from those leaders who were calling the shots in the last two decades, said the people quoted above. The BJP has also reiterated its philosophy that the party and organisation are larger than the individual.

BJP has changed candidates on 14 seats so far in view of the caste factor and anti incumbency. The seats where new faces have been brought in are Jaipur, Sriganganagar, Churu, Jhunjhunu, Jaipur Rural, Rajsamand, Dausa, Karauli Dholpur, Alwar, Bharatpur, Nagaur, Jalore, Udaipur and Banswara.

MP Ramcharan Bohra who won the last two Lok Sabha elections from Jaipur constituency with a margin of over five hundred thousand votes has been dropped due to anti incumbency and also due to his being a loyalist of former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, said a party leader on the condition of anonymity.

In his place, Manju Sharma, daughter of former BJP state president and former minister Bhanwarlal Sharma, will try her luck at the hustings. She had unsuccessfully contested the 2008 assembly elections.

The party has fielded two former Congress leaders on Nagaur and Banswara seats. Jyoti Mirdha who belongs to the prominent Mirdha family in the Jat belt will contest from Nagaur while influential tribal leader Mahendrajit Singh Malviya will fight from Banswara seat.

From Jaipur Rural seat, Rao Rajendra Singh, former deputy speaker of assembly has been fielded while in Sriganganagar Nihalchand has been replaced by Priyanka Balan who is the chairperson of Anoopgarh municipal council.

From Churu, Rahul Kaswan considered a Raje loyalist, has been dropped. The party has fielded Paralympian Devendra Jhajhariya. Earlier, former leader of opposition Rajendra Rathore had alleged that Kaswan had sabotaged his chances in the assembly election from Taranagar.

In Rajsamand, the party has slackened its policy of not giving a ticket to two members of the same family. However, on this seat, the party has fielded Mahima Singh, wife of Nathdwara MLA Vishvaraj Singh Mewar of the erstwhile Mewar royal family with an eye on Rajput vote.

Narendra Kumar, the MP from Jhunjhunu has been replaced by Shubhkaran Choudhary, a former MLA. A party leader said: Choudhary was backed by the central leadership in view of the Jat votes in the region.

The Alwar seat fell vacant after sitting MP Baba Balaknath contested the assembly election. Here Union minister Bhupendra Yadav, who is considered close to the BJP high command has got a ticket.

In Jalore, the BJP dropped MP Devji Patel in favour of newbie Lumbaram Choudhary who is former pradhan of Sirohi panchayat samiti and former district BJP president.

Similarly, the party has fielded Mannalal Rawat from Udaipur. Rawat is considered close to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and has worked in the transport department. He has now applied for voluntary retirement.

In Dausa, the ticket was stuck because both Jaskaur Meena and senior party leader and now agriculture minister Kirodi Lal Meena were seeking tickets for their kin. However, the party refused to yield and instead placed faith in former MLA Kanhaiyalal Meena. Kirodi Lal Meenas supporters are unhappy with the decision and could play spoilsport on the seat, said people familiar with the developments.

On the Karauli Dholpur seat, which is reserved for SC, BJP has fielded Indudevi Jatav.

In Bharatpur, the party dropped sitting MP Ranjeeta Koli and put its faith in Ramswaroop Koli, a former MP. He contested in 2004 and won. However, after that he was not given a ticket. Koli has been associated with the RSS since long and the outfit lobbied for his ticket, said a party leader.

Reacting to the ticket distribution, political analyst Mithilesh Jaimini said, Some seats look tough for the BJP such as Dausa, Nagaur, Banswara and Sriganganagar, In Dausa, the BJP could face internal strife while on Nagaur, Jyoti Mirdha faces a tough fight from RLP chief Hanuman Beniwal. In Banswara, if Congress gives a walkover to Bharat Adivasi Party then it will be a tough fight while Sriganganagar seat could also pose a challenge. The BJP has distanced itself from former CM Vasundhara Raje. Whether this will be a boon or bane, the results will show.

BJP spokesperson Laxmikant Bhardwaj meanwhile said, The BJP will win all 25 seats because it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is contesting on all the seats. People will vote for his good governance and the development work done in the last 10 years.
Purnea and Katihar, two seats currently held by the Janata Dal (United), have emerged as the sticking point in seat-sharing talks between the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Congress for the 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar, top leaders of the former said. (From left) Union minister Nitin Gadkari waves at the crowd ahead of filing his nomination papers in Nagpur; Congress leader Chaudhary Lal Singh files his papers from Udhampur constituency in Jammu & Kashmirs Kathua, on Wednesday. (File)

On Tuesday evening, leader of opposition in Bihar assembly and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav held a meeting with senior Congress leader Mukul Wasnik in Delhi, following which he claimed a deal was struck between members of the five-party Mahagathbandhan or Grand Alliance in Bihar (part of INDIA bloc) and an announcement would be made within next few days in Patna.

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Also Read | Congress releases 8th list of 14 candidates for Lok Sabha elections

The Congress-RJD alliance is the oldest alliance. We have been together in all situations and have contested elections together. There has never been any tension between us. We have both always understood each other, said Yadav, flanked by Bihar Congress president Akhilesh Prasad Singh and Congresss state in-charge Mohan Prakash.

Our collective agenda is to stop the BJP. I can say that Bihar will present a shocking result. And we have a strategy for that, the RJD leader said, adding that all members of the alliance  the Congress, RJD and three communist parties  were getting a respectable deal.

But with no announcement forthcoming on Wednesday, the leaders cited in the first instance admitted that while the RJD had softened its stand and agreed to give the Congress more than seven seats by offering one or two seats more, a final deal was being held up by a lack of consensus over Purnea and Katihar.

Also Read | Lok Sabha polls: After Odisha, BJP decides to contest alone in Punjab

There are still some issues over the Katihar seat, which the Congress wants. Similarly, the RJD is keen on fighting the Purnea seat even as the Congress is insisting on it. Our party is ready to allot eight to nine seats to the Congress but we cannot give up our claim on Purnea, said a senior RJD leader, seeking anonymity.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the National Democratic Alliance, comprising the BJP, JD(U) and LJP won 39 seats.

RJD is keen to field Bima Bharti, a JD(U) legislator who joined the party recently, from Purnea, but the seat is also being eyed by former MP Rajesh Ranjan, aka Pappu Yadav, who joined the Congress recently. Ranjan is a five-time MP and represented Purnea thrice.

On Wednesday, Bharti claimed she would contest from Purnea. In response, Ranjan said: I will not give up my claim on Purnea. Let the top leadership of the Congress decide.

The leaders cited in the first instance said the RJD has offered to support Ranjan from Madhepura or Supaul, but he is not keen on these.

There is also no clarity on whether the RJD will give up its claim on Katihar, where the Congress is keen to field former MP Tariq Anwar.

The first phase of the elections is scheduled for April 19 and Thursday is the last day for filing nominations for the four seats from Bihar that go to the polls in this phase.

Wednesday was the last day for the remaining 98 seats that go to polls in this phase across 20 other states and Union Territories.

The RJD has already announced candidates for seven constituencies in Bihar.

Former governor and senior Congress leader Nikhil Kumar expressed his displeasure over the way RJD named Abhya Kushwaha from the Aurangabad parliamentary seat he was keen to contest . A seat sharing arrangement is done by taking into confidence all allies in a coalition. But, issuing tickets before a deal is finalised is not correct, he told a TV channel.

The CPI and the CPI(ML) have said Begusarai and the Karakat seats have been alloted to them, but HT learns that the Congress is not entirely happy over this.

Political analyst and former principal of Patna College, Nawal Kishore Chaudhary, said the delay in seat-sharing arrangement in the INDIA bloc has sent a wrong signal to the people ahead of the polls.

The delay in seat-sharing only reflects a lack of unity among allies in the bloc. It is happening in several states, including Bihar. The people want decisive leadership and action and such internal wrangling among allies in the opposition coalition could have adverse impact on their poll prospects and give the ruling NDA some advantage, he said.
Sadanand Vasant Date, a 1990-batch IPS officer, has been appointed as the director general of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). According to the personnel ministry order, the appointments committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved Sadanand Vasant Date's appointment as the chief of the NIA for a tenure up to his superannuation on December 31, 2026. Sadanand Vasant Date

Sadanand Vasant Date will succeed Dinkar Gupta, who is due to superannuate on March 31.

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The top cop played a crucial role in rescue operations during the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai. For his big role in the rescue of hostages at the Cama and Albless hospital for women and children, Sadanand Vasant Date was awarded the Presidents police medal for gallantry.

Currently serving as the chief of the Maharashtra Anti Terrorism Squad (ATS), Date is known for his honesty and no-nonsense attitude.

ALSO READ| Govt approves appointments of new NIA, NDRF, BPRD chiefs

His illustrious career and work style

Sadanand Vasant Date has served as the first commissioner of the newly formed Mira Bhayandar Vasai Virar (MBVV) police formed in 2020. He has also been the joint commissioner of police law and order and joint commissioner of the crime branch in Mumbai city.

His colleagues know Date to be a workaholic officer. A colleague of Date told The Indian Express that when he was with the Economic Offences Wing, the department involved a lot of case files to be read. The officer recalled that Date would reach his office an hour earlier at 8.30am instead of 9.30am. Date did so to ensure that throughout the day, he would not be occupied with reading the case files and would be available to meet people.

ALSO READ| NIA arrests 2 key accused in 102kg Attari heroin haul case

An officer from Maharashtra Police shared an incident with The Indian Express when Date didn't succumb to political pressure. The officer recalled that when Date was with MBVV, an inspector rank officer wanting to become in-charge of a police station took the help of a minister to pressure Date. Date thought that the inspector was not competent enough to head the police station.

After the minister called twice, Date called the inspector to this office. He told the officer to either get a written transfer order from the government which he would be duty-bound to follow or wait for Dates tenure to be over before he could try again to become the police station in charge. The message was received, the officer said.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday released the party's first list of 17 candidates for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Anil Desai will contest from the Mumbai South Central parliamentary constituency. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray addresses supporters at a rally. (Uday Deolekar/HT photo)

Sanjay Raut said the Uddhav Thackeray-led party is going to contest a total of 22 seats in the general elections and the remaining five names will be announced in a day or two. He also said in Hatkanangale, farmers' leader Raju Shetti has asked for the support of the Maha Vikas Aghadi.

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Of the names declared on Wednesday, 11 names were already announced by party chief Uddhav Thackeray during his visit to respective Lok Sabha constituencies in the last month.

The party has also renominated all five sitting MPs. Sitting MP Arvind Sawant will contest from the Mumbai South constituency, Sanjay Patil from Mumbai North East and Amol Kirtikar from the Mumbai North West constituency.

Rajan Vichare will contest from Thane, while Vinayak Raut has been given a ticket from Ratnagiri Sindhudurg. Sitting MPs Sanjay Jadhav (Parbhani) and Omraje Nimbalkar (Osmanabad) have also been renominated.

The party will also contest Aurangabad, fielding former MP Chandrakant Khaire from the seat.

Interestingly, wrestler Chandrahar Patil has been fielded from Sangli, the seat that the Congress, a partner in the Maha Vikas Aghadi, was insisting on.

The Congress has declared its candidates on some seats where there is no tussle with its alliance partners.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led party is a constituent of the MVA in the state. Another MVA constituent, NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) is yet to officially declare its candidates in the state for the April-May Lok Sabha polls.

Maharashtra, which has 48 Lok Sabha seats, the second highest after Uttar Pradesh (80), will vote in five phases starting from April 19.

Suspense over candidate from Kalyan Lok Sabha constituency currently represented by MP Shrikant Shinde - the son of chief minister Eknath Shinde.

As the party gave a ticket to former MP Chandrakant Khaire, now the eyes will be on leader of Opposition in the legislative council Ambadas Danve, who was expecting a party ticket. There was speculation that Danve might join the BJP or chief minister Eknath Shinde's party. Danve, however, earlier denied such reports in local media and also asserted that he would never leave Uddhav Thackeray.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Wednesday announced the agitation to demand statehood for Ladakh will be intensified and a 'border march' will be held on April 7 in the eastern part of the Union territory to highlight ground realities, including alleged encroachments by China. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, under observation at a hospital, after he ended his 21-day-long hunger strike (PTI)

Wangchuk, who is part of the Leh-based Apex body that comprises social, religious and political organisations, said they are adopting the Gandhian approach in their agitation, which is vital to safeguard the fragile environment of the region and the indigenous character of its population.

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"We are followers of (Mahatma) Gandhi's Satyagraha. We are demanding the fulfilment of the promises made to us by this (BJP) government through its manifestos which led its candidates to win parliamentary polls (in 2019) and hill council polls in Leh (2020)," he told a gathering here.

The activist ended his 21-day-long hunger strike in support of the demand for statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution on Tuesday evening.

"The first phase of the hunger strike will be followed by a chain hunger strike by women, youths, religious leaders and elders. On April 7, we will launch a march to Changthang (in the east of Leh along the border with China) like Gandhi's Dandi March under the Civil Disobedience Movement," Wangchuk said.

He said the Leh-based Apex body will lead the march to highlight the ground realities of Ladakh. Wangchuk alleged that nomads were losing prime pasture land to huge industrial plants to the south and Chinese encroachments to the north.

"The Changthang grazers, famous for producing Pashmina wool, are being forced to sell their animals because over 20,000 acres of grazing land was taken by industrialists to set up their plants... we do not want solar energy at the cost of our people's livelihood and dislocation," he claimed.

"They are taking away our land because there are no safeguards available...," Wangchuk alleged.

He said if the government has nothing to hide, "we will be allowed to proceed but if they stop us from undertaking the march, we will launch a 'jail bharo andolan' which will be followed by a non-cooperation movement."

Accusing the BJP of backtracking from its promises to the people of Ladakh, Wangchuk said the representatives of the Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) were left shocked when the Union home ministry straightway rejected their demands on March 4.

"We are seeking our rights and fulfilment of the promises. Parliamentary polls have been announced and the BJP is again making various guarantees to the people but who is going to buy these promises this time," he said, expressing hope that the government will reconsider its decision and announce statehood to Ladakh.

Wangchuk added that he was ready to go on a hunger strike once again if the demands of the people of Ladakh were not met as "we are fighting for our future and the children".

He also questioned claims of pumping large amounts of money and demanded an inquiry into where the money is being spent.

The Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), separate groupings of various political, social and religious organisations, are jointly spearheading the agitation to demand statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, and have held five rounds of talks with the home ministry.

The Sixth Schedule contains provisions related to the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram through autonomous district councils.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi, while reacting to Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam's remarks against party candidate from Mumbai North West constituency Amol Kirtikar, said that Nirupam is speaking the language of BJP while being in Congress. She further hoped that the Congress leader might compromise to follow 'alliance dharm'. Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi(File)

Read here: Uddhav fielding a khichdi chor: Sanjay Nirupam's dig over Shiv Sena (UBT)

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"First of all, he didn't speak on behalf of Congress. He gave his personal opinion...He has expressed his displeasure. This is unfortunate, I hope that he understands that sometimes it is essential to compromise in 'alliance dharm'," news agency ANI quoted Chaturvedi as saying.

While reacting to the allegations linked to the Khichdi scam, the Shiv Sena (UBT) MP said that the charges are being levelled against Kirtikar because they know that it will be difficult for the BJP to defeat him.

"As far as the scam (COVID Khichdi scam) is concerned, he is speaking BJP's language while being in Congress...Allegations are being levelled against Amol Kirtikar because they know that it will be difficult for the BJP to defeat him," he added.

Chaturvedi's remarks came hours after former Rajya Sabha MP Nirupam took a potshot at Uddhav Thackeray for independently announcing the candidates on the four Mumbai seats for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, saying that the party has deliberately fielded a 'khichdi chor' from the seat where he was presenting a strong candidature.

Read here: Sanjay Nirupam's all options open warning as trouble mounts for MVA after Shiv Sena (UBT) list

"The candidate that Shiv Sena has fielded from northwest Mumbai - where I was presenting a strong candidature - took bribes from the contractor in COVID Khichdi scam. ED is probing it...Shiv Sena is deliberately fielding such a 'Khichdi chor'. This has hurt Congress cadres. I am upset too. I am sad that our negotiators didn't present Congress party's stand strongly...Shiv Sena (UBT) has attempted to suppress Congress," Nirupam said.

The senior Congress leader also urged the grand old party to consider pulling the plug on their alliance with Shiv Sena (UBT) as the latter is attempting to suppress and finish the Congress in Mumbai.

Shiv Sena (UBT), a constituent of the opposition MVA, released its first list of 17 candidates in Maharashtra and said it would contest 22 of the 48 seats in the state.

Read here: Sanjay Nirupam lashes out at Uddhav over announcement of Mumbai North West seat

Kirtikar, son of MP Gajanan Kirtikar, who has been named as the candidate from Mumbai North-West seat, was summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged irregularities in the distribution of 'khichdi' to migrants during the Covid-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, senior leader Anil Desai has been named from Mumbai South Central, and MP Arvind Sawant has been fielded from the South Mumbai seat.

The polls in Maharashtra would be held in five phases on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13 and May 20. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP won 23 out of 25 contested seats, while the undivided Shiv Sena secured 18 out of 23 seats.

(With inputs from ANI)
New Delhi: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Union minister Anurag Thakur on Wednesday criticised Sunita Agarwal, wife of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, for addressing the media twice since the CMs arrest. Union minister Anurag Thakur (File Photo)

Speaking in Jammu, Thakur compared the move to that of former Bihar chief minister Rabri Devi saying that when former Bihar CM Lalu Prasad Yadav was arrested in the fodder scam, his wife Rabri Devi began to make announcements and gradually became the chief minister of Bihar.

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He said that Arvinds wife Sunita, who has taken on a more public persona since her husbands arrest, is taking the same route to become the chief minister of Delhi.

Delhi CM and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on Thursday (March 21) in connection with an alleged money laundering case linked to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy.

Sunita has put out two video messages since the Delhi CM was arrested by the ED. Sitting in the chair from which her husband delivered numerous addresses, Sunita mounted a defence of her husband and read out messages from him.

This has prompted speculation that the former IRS officer, who has largely maintained a low political profile, will take Arvinds place at the head of the Delhi government, as pressure mounts on him to resign.

Arvind Kejriwal is the only incumbent chief minister in Indian history to have been arrested and has refused to resign from his position and continued to run the Delhi government from jail.

BJP leaders have sharply criticised this decision, with Thakur saying, He is so fond of his position as a CM, that the person who used to say that he would never enter politics cannot leave it even while being jailed.

Further accusing the Delhi chief minister of amassing assets worth crores, Thakur said, The person who used to say that he would not take a big car, big bungalow and security made the biggest bungalow and got crores of commission in it, got security from two states and took not one but several luxurious cars.

The Union minister also took a jibe at the Congress and its alliance in Delhi with its former rival.

They (AAP) used to demand that Sonia Gandhi (former Congress chief) should be taken into remand and interrogated to bring the truth forward. [..] Has the Congress sold its conscience and joined hands with another corrupt party, the Aam Aadmi Party? What compelled the Congress to stand with the corrupt Aam Aadmi Party? I asked the Congress leaders, who used to give statistics on the liquor scam until yesterday, to talk about filing a case. But today, they speak of holding a rally for those who have broken all of the records of corruption in the country., he said.

Thakur said that the AAPs true face had been revealed before the people as corrupt, unethical and anarchic.

Further hitting out at the Delhi CM, Thakur said, Arvind Kejriwal used to talk about ethics. He used to sit on hunger strikes against Congress corruption. He used to say that he wouldnt go into politics and that his fight was against corruption. Today, the Aam Aadmi Party is seen immersed in the swamp of corruption. AAPs MP, health minister, deputy CM, education minister and their MLC, everyone is in jail. Their CM and the kingpin of the liquor scam, Kattar Be-Imaan Arvind Kejriwal is also in jail.
The Indian Constitution is evidence of the transformation of the governance structure in India from the order of the Queen to the will of the people, Supreme Court judge Bhushan R Gavai said, as he emphasised that the apex court must act as the custodian of the Constitution and the ultimate arbiter of justice. Justice Gavai is in line to become the Chief Justice of India (CJI) in May 2025. (HT Photo)

It is the duty of the courts to ensure that the law remains relevant amid shifting societal norms, and when faced with multiple interpretations, the courts opt for the one that best advances the constitutional values. Central to this transformative ethos is the role of the Supreme Court, which has to act as the custodian of the Constitution and the ultimate arbiter of justice, said the judge.

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Justice Gavai, who is in line to become the Chief Justice of India (CJI) in May 2025, on Tuesday delivered a thought-provoking speech at Columbia Law School, reflecting on the transformative journey of the Indian Constitution over the past 75 years when he highlighted the pivotal and transformational role the Constitution has played over the years in ensuring key freedoms to people. Simultaneously, the judge cited the crucial functions of the courts in upholding the cherished values enshrined in the Constitution.

Also Read: Cant be empty formality: SC asks J&K administration to publish internet ban review order

While democracy needs to be protected and upheld at all times by the people, the courts play a seminal role in reinforcing the supremacy of the Constitution and determining the validity of legislative and executive actions on the touchstone of the principles of the Constitution. The principles of democracy and judicial review are intertwined and complementary. These form the core of the basic structure of the Constitution, said justice Gavai.

Referring to the recent Supreme Court verdict in the electoral bond (EB) case, the judge specifically emphasised in his speech how crucial it is for democracy to succeed that the voting process adheres to the laws and the ideals of the Constitution.

Justice Gavai was one of the judges on the Constitution bench that quashed the 2018 EB scheme by a judgment on February 15.

Justice Gavai said, In a very recent judgment on the validity of anonymous electoral bonds, the Supreme Court held that disclosure of information on electoral bonds to the voter cannot be restricted on the grounds of the informational privacy of the financial contributions to political parties. He added that the expansion of the freedom to speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) to include the right to information is a crucial recognition for the citizenry to effectively participate in the elections, which, in turn, is an intrinsic feature of democracy.

The topic of justice Gavais lecture, 75 Years of Transformative Constitutionalism, was divided into three sections. He began by exploring how the Indian Constitution reflected a transformative intent, emphasising its departure from a society marred by inequality and injustice towards one that upholds justice, equality, liberty, and individual dignity.

Delving into the transformative intent of the Indian Constitution, the judge elucidated its foundational principles of equality, liberty, and fraternity. He stressed on the framers conscious efforts to address existing inequalities through provisions like Article 14, which guarantees equality before the law, and Article 17, which abolishes the practice of untouchability.

When justice Gavai assumes CJIs office in May 2025, he will be just the second member of a Scheduled Caste (SC) to lead the judiciary.

Moving on to legislative commitments, justice Gavai highlighted landmark enactments aimed at upholding constitutional ideals and securing the rights of marginalised communities. From the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act to laws protecting gender rights and child welfare, he illustrated how legislation has been instrumental in advancing social justice.

The role of the judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, in interpreting and upholding the transformative ethos of the Constitution was another focal point of the judges speech. He emphasised the top courts evolution from a textualist to a living constitutionalist approach, expanding the scope of fundamental rights and promoting equality and non-discrimination.

Justice Gavai concluded by reaffirming the transformative potential of the Indian Constitution and the pivotal role of the judiciary in safeguarding its principles.
A 24-year-old student at Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies in Pune suffered burn injuries after an unidentified person allegedly threw an acid-like chemical at him when he was sleeping in his hostel room last week, police said on Tuesday. While the incident at Symbiosis Boys Hostel at Range Hills in Khadki took place on Saturday, it came to light on Monday after the victim, who suffered injuries on his hand, filed a complaint, police added. (Getty Images)

While the incident at Symbiosis Boys Hostel at Range Hills in Khadki took place on Saturday, it came to light on Monday after the victim, who suffered injuries on his hand, filed a complaint, police added.

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The victim was identified as Ashishkumar Narendrakumar Das, who is from Odisha and a second-year MBA degree student at the institute

According to inspector Girish Dighavkar at Khadki Police Station, Das, in his complaint, said the unidentified person entered his room around 9pm on Saturday and threw an acid-like chemical at him before fleeing the spot.

We are treating this as a medico-legal case. The student is out of danger and we have registered a first information report (FIR) in this regard. There is no CCTV on the fourth floor of the hostel where the victims room is situated. We have collected samples of the chemical and sent it for forensic analysis. A probe is underway, inspector Girish Dighavkar at Khadki Police Station said.

According to police officers aware of the details, the accused entered Dass room with the acid-like chemical in a plastic container. As he threw the substance on the second-year student who was sleeping, the latter screamed and tried to rush out of the room but found the door locked from outside. He was rescued by his hostel mates.

When contacted, Symbiosis Society principal director Dr Vidya Yeravdekar said: We are equally disturbed by the incident. The student was sleeping in his room and somebody threw some chemical on him. Fortunately, a majority of the substance fell on the curtains and some fell on his arm due to which he sustained burn injuries.

Yeravdekar also said the accused immediately fled the room after the attack and locked the door from outside. We checked the exits and entries to the hostel and did not find anybody. We dont know who might have done this. We took the injured to a hospital where he was treated and are trying to find out who is behind the incident. We are fully cooperating with the police and all the hostel boys are being interrogated, she said.

Police have filed the FIR under sections 326-A (acid attack), 342 (wrongful confinement) and 448 (house-trespass) of Indian Penal Code.
The biannual Army Commanders Conference will begin on Thursday and will see the forces top brass discuss issues related to enhancing the armys operational effectiveness, importance of military innovation, adaptability, and investing in training and development programmes to boost readiness to take on new challenges, the army said on Wednesday. Army chief General Manoj Pande will chair the conference. (File)

The conference will be held in virtual mode on Thursday and in physical mode in New Delhi on April 1-2.

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The conference serves as a pivotal forum for apex leadership of the Indian Army to brainstorm conceptual issues, review and assess the overall security situation. It will lay down key priorities facilitating important policy decisions to chart the course for future direction, the army said in a statement.

Army chief General Manoj Pande will chair the conference.

On April 2, defence minister Rajnath Singh will deliver his keynote address. The army leadership will also be addressed by chief of defence staff General Anil Chauhan, navy chief Admiral R Hari Kumar and IAF chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari.

The Army Commanders Conference, with its wide scope, ensures the Indian Army remains progressive, forward-looking, adaptive and future-ready, the statement added.

The conference comes at a time when India and China are in talks to cool tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

Indian and Chinese senior military commanders concluded the 21st round of talks on February 19, 2023. They agreed to continue the military dialogue and maintain peace, but there was no immediate breakthrough.

Despite four rounds of disengagement from Galwan Valley, Pangong Tso, Gogra (PP-17A) and Hot Springs (PP-15), the Indian and Chinese armies still have tens of thousands of troops each and advanced weaponry deployed in the Ladakh theatre. Problems at Depsang and Demchok are still on the negotiating table.
Congress leader and former Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Nirupam on Wednesday launched a vitriolic attack on Shiv Sena (UBT) for independently announcing the candidates on the four Mumbai seats for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, saying that the party has deliberately fielded a 'khichdi chor' from the seat where he was presenting a strong candidature. Senior Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam(Hindustan Times file photo)

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While expressing his discontent over the candidates' announcement, Nirupam said the declaration of Amol Kirtikar's candidacy for Mumbai North-West seat was a 'violation of alliance dharma'.

"The candidate that Shiv Sena has fielded from northwest Mumbai - where I was presenting a strong candidature - took bribes from the contractor in COVID Khichdi scam. ED is probing it...Shiv Sena is deliberately fielding such a 'Khichdi chor'. This has hurt Congress cadres. I am upset too. I am sad that our negotiators didn't present Congress party's stand strongly...Shiv Sena (UBT) has attempted to suppress Congress," news agency ANI quoted Nirupam as saying.

The senior Congress leader also urged the grand old party to consider pulling the plug on their alliance with Shiv Sena (UBT) as the latter is attempting to suppress and finish the Congress in Mumbai.

Read here: Sanjay Nirupam's all options open warning as trouble mounts for MVA after Shiv Sena (UBT) list

"The arbitrary manner in which Shiv Sena (UBT) has announced candidates on 4 out of the 6 Lok Sabha seats in Mumbai has upset the Congress cadre. Mumbai Congress leadership is very upset. Voters of Congress will also be upset due to the same. I would like to demand from our top leadership that they should take a stand against this decision of the Shiv Sena," he added.

Nirupam further urged the Congress first to break the ties and contest the polls on the disputed seats in a friendly manner. "There are just two options - First, break off the alliance. Second, have a friendly fight. Congress should field candidates for the seats on which we have a dispute and have not reached a solution..." he added

Shiv Sena (UBT) releases 1st list of candidates:

Nirupam's remarks came hours after Shiv Sena (UBT), a constituent of the opposition MVA, released its first list of 17 candidates in Maharashtra and said it would contest 22 of the 48 seats in the state.

Kirtikar, son of MP Gajanan Kirtikar, who has been named as the candidate from Mumbai North-West seat, was summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged irregularities in the distribution of 'khichdi' to migrants during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, senior leader Anil Desai has been named from Mumbai South Central, and MP Arvind Sawant has been fielded from the South Mumbai seat.

The party has fielded Sanjay Deshmukh from Yavatmal, Narendra Khedekar from Buldhana, Sanjog Waghere from Maval, Chandrahar Patil from Sangali, Nagesh Patil from Hingoli, Chandrakant Khere from Sambhajinagar and Omraj Nimbalkar from Dharshiv. Anant Geete will contest the Raigadh seat and Vinayak Raut will contest from Ratnagiri. Rajan Vichare is the candidate of the party from Thane, while Sanjay Jadhav is all set to fight Parbhani seat.

Elections 2024:

The elections for the 543 parliamentary constituencies will be held in seven phases, starting on April 19 and culminating on June 1. The phase 1 polling will be held on April 19, the second phase on April 26, third phase on May 7, fourth phase on May 13, 5th phase on May 20, 6th phase on May 25 and the last and the 7th phase on June 1. The counting of votes will be held on June 4.

Read here: Sanjay Nirupam lashes out at Uddhav over announcement of Mumbai North West seat

Meanwhile, the polls in Maharashtra would be held in five phases on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13 and May 20. The state, with its 48 Lok Sabha seats, is the second-largest contributor to the lower house of Parliament after Uttar Pradesh.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP won 23 out of 25 contested seats, while the undivided Shiv Sena secured 18 out of 23 seats.

(With inputs from ANI)
Ukraine's Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba is slated to arrive here on Thursday for a two-day official visit during which he will have meetings with his Indian counterpart and others to discuss matters related to the bilateral relationship. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba(File)

His visit comes at the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

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During his visit, Kuleba will have "a number of engagements, including official meetings with External Affairs Minister and Deputy NSA to discuss matters pertaining to the bilateral partnership and cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest," the statement said.

He is also expected to interact with the business community.

Kuleba's visit comes amid the Russia-Ukraine war.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 20 had held separate conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and asserted that dialogue and diplomacy were the way forward for the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Modi had spoken to Putin over a telephone call to congratulate him for winning a fifth term in office in the recent elections, and followed it up with a phone call to Zelenskyy to convey India's "consistent support" for all efforts for peace and bringing an early end to the ongoing conflict.
The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday issued a fresh summons to Trinamool leader Mahua Moitra and businessman Darshan Hiranandani in a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) contravention case, ordering them to report for questioning on March 28. Darshan Hiranandani has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate

Before this, Dubai-based Darshan Hiranandani was also summoned by the agency in a separate FEMA case against his Mumbai-based realty group. Earlier, his father Niranjan Hiranandani had deposed before the ED in Mumbai.

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Meanwhile, Mahua Moitra was summoned by the ED twice earlier but she decided not to depose citing official work and sought deferment on the notice. In the current case, an advocate allegedly linked to Moitra was examined by the ED on Wednesday at its office in New Delhi, reported PTI.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) raided Mahua Moitra's premises in connection with the cash-for-query case on Saturday, days after anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal directed the federal agency to investigate the allegations levelled against her by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey.

Who is businessman Darshan Hiranandani?

Darshan Hiranandani is the son of property tycoon Niranjan Hiranandani and heads his family-run property empire. He is mostly engaged in managing the company's international real estate ventures.

Darshan Hiranandani's firm set up projects across multiple cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Hiranandani Group is also expanding its business in upcoming sectors such as data centres, cloud computing, energy, and industrial warehousing.

Apart from holding a key post in the Hiranandani Group, Darshan also holds leadership roles in H-Energy Pvt and oversees the operation of data centres in Navi Mumbai and Noida. His father Nirjanjan Hiranandani has a net worth of over $1.4 billion.

Hiranandani's link to Mahua Moitra's case

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey alleged that Mahua Moitra asked questions in the House in exchange for cash and gifts from Darshan Hiranandani to mount an attack on industrialist Gautam Adani and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, among others.

His allegations were based on a complaint filed by advocate Jai Dehadrai, who alleged that Moitra compromised national security in exchange for gifts and cash from Hiranandani. On the basis of this complaint, the Lok Sabha ethics committee passed the decision to expel Moitra from Parliament.

(With inputs from PTI)
The Delhi high court will on Wednesday, March 27, hear a plea by chief minister Arvind Kejriwal challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and seeking his immediate release in a money-laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal.(PTI / File)

Arvind Kejriwal's petition, which has sought the release on account of the arrest and the subsequent remand to the ED being illegal, is listed for hearing before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma at 10.30am.

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The ED arrested the Delhi chief minister hours after the high court refused to grant him protection from coercive action by the federal anti-money laundering agency. On Friday, the trial court had remanded Arvind Kejriwal in the ED's custody till March 28. Follow Live updates on Arvind Kejriwal news

Arvind Kejriwal had earlier moved the high court for quashing and setting aside all proceedings, including summonses, issued against him.

Arvind Kejriwal was arrested over alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 which was later scrapped. Top Aam Aadmi Party leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are in judicial custody in the same case.

The ED has alleged that the accused were in touch with Arvind Kejriwal for formulating the excise policy that resulted in undue benefits to them in return for which they paid kickbacks to the AAP.

Arvind Kejriwal arrest: Protests on Delhi streets

On Tuesday, the AAP took to the streets over the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal with its leaders and workers trying to march towards the prime minister's residence before being stopped while the BJP held counter protests demanding the Delhi chief minister's resignation.

During the day, Arvind Kejriwal issued a new order from ED custody to health minister Saurabh Bharadwaj to address the shortage of medicines and diagnostic tests at mohalla clinics and hospitals in the city. This is the second direction issued by the chief minister from the ED custody.

As the AAP leaders and supporters gathered near Patel Chowk Metro Station to move towards the prime minister's residence in Lok Kalyan Marg, Gopal Rai alleged that the way the Centre has imposed restrictions under section 144 across the city, it seems Delhi has become a police state.

Police beefed up security in several parts of the national capital, including around the prime minister's residence and Central Delhi, by deploying its personnel and those of paramilitary forces.

A senior police officer said around 100 people, including AAP leader Somnath Bharti, Delhi assembly deputy Speaker Rakhi Birla and Punjab minister Harjot Singh Bains, were detained during the protest. Later, they were released.

The BJP also staged a protest against the AAP near Delhi Secretariat, demanding the resignation of Kejriwal.

At least 57 BJP members, including the party's Delhi unit chief Virendra Sachdeva, were detained as they tried to march towards the Delhi Secretariat. Police also used water cannons to stop them.

(With inputs from agencies)
Cairo, Mar 27 (UNI) Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry on Tuesday held phone talks with his Irish counterpart Micheal Martin on efforts to implement an immediate ceasefire in the conflict-torn Gaza Strip.

The talks, which came a day after the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) adopted a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, also covered the prospect of turning an expected truce into a permanent ceasefire and ending the Gaza war, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Shoukry and Martin, also Ireland's deputy prime minister and defense minister, addressed means to prevent any Israeli moves to launch a military operation in the southern Gazan city of Rafah, which is now home to about 1.5 million internally displaced Palestinians.

Shoukry updated Martin on Egypt's latest efforts to mediate a truce between Israel and Hamas that hopefully leads to a permanent ceasefire, in addition to Egypt's endeavors to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

For his part, Martin elaborated on Ireland's recent communication with several European countries to consider recognizing the State of Palestine.

"The only way to achieve security and stability in the Middle East region is through implementing the two-state solution and establishing an independent Palestinian state living side by side with Israel in peace and security," Martin was quoted by the statement as saying.

The UNSC on Monday adopted Resolution 2728 demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan and calling for the release of all hostages.

The resolution won 14 votes in favor among the 15 UNSC members. The United States, which had previously vetoed three draft resolutions that would have called for or demanded a ceasefire in Gaza, abstained, making it possible for the resolution to pass.

Israel has been launching a large-scale offensive against Hamas in Gaza to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 200 were taken hostage. The Israeli strikes in Gaza have so far killed 32,414 Palestinians and injured 74,787 others, said Gaza's Health Ministry on Tuesday.

UNI/XINHUA ARN
A rare retrospective of artist Constantin Brancusi, who revolutionised sculpture in the early 20th century but whose works can be extremely tricky to transport, opens in Paris on Wednesday. Born in Romania in 1876, Brancusi arrived in Paris at age 28 and soon after joined the workshop of another historic sculptor, Auguste Rodin. "Nothing grows in the shadow of large trees," Brancusi reportedly said after spending just three months with the creator of "The Kiss" and "The Thinker". A visitor takes a picture of works by Romanian artist Constantin Brancusi during at the press preview of the retrospective held at the Centre Pompidou in Paris.(AFP)

Working directly with wood and marble, and without using moulds, Brancusi launched a radical new approach to sculpture that sought to purify human forms into abstract shapes. "It is such a pity to have to spoil a beautiful material by hollowing out little holes for eyes, hair, ears," he said.

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More than 120 sculptures and hundreds of sketches, paintings and documents are exhibited at the Pompidou Centre until July 1 -- the first retrospective on this scale in almost 30 years. That is because many of his key works -- particularly the plaster towers balanced precariously on a small base -- cannot be transported without enormous insurance costs.

The last retrospective in 1995 was also at the Pompidou, which inherited Brancusi's nearby workshop and entire personal collection. Visitors can explore how his work evolved through different versions of his best-known work, "The Sleeping Muse", or a celebrated bust of a child, or his birds and seals.

Brancusi "crosses all the movements of the 20th century," said exhibition curator Ariane Coulondre. "He can be considered one of the fathers of abstract art, without being abstract at all. He never wanted to be part of any movement," she added.

Tirelessly reworking his sculptures in search of a pure style, Brancusi gave hardly any interviews and refused to have an agent, selling directly to buyers who had to visit his workshop. Then in 1945, he abruptly stopped work, considering he had nothing more to add.

He made no more sculptures in his final 12 years, instead spending the time rearranging his workshop and selling remaining pieces -- but having already transformed the world of sculpture.
Spiritual leader Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev has been discharged from the Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Delhi today after his successful emergency brain surgery on March 17. The mystic and Yogi had suffered multiple bleedings in the brain before he was hospitalised. He suffered from persistent and severe headaches for several weeks. Brain bleeding, also known as intracranial haemorrhage, occurs when blood vessels in the brain rupture, leading to blood leakage into surrounding tissues. This can result in neurological complications or even death. Immediate medical attention is important to address this serious condition. (Also read: Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev discharged from hospital after brain surgery) Haemorrhage inside the brain is due to high blood pressure and rupture of blood vessel. It can be due to rupture of vascular malformation like AVM, aneurysm, or dural AVF(Isha Foundation)

The doctors have expressed satisfaction with his recovery and healing. Sadhguru, even as he is recovering, has maintained the same spirit. His commitment to the global good, his sharp mind and his sense of humour are all intact. I think this is good news for all the millions of people who have been enquiring about his health," said Dr Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director - Apollo Hospitals Group.

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What is brain bleeding?

Brain bleedings occurs as a result of rupturing of blood vessels in brain. It can be in any part of brain or on surface.

"Extra dural (EDH) or subdural hematoma (SDH) is due to trauma and rarely due to side effects of blood thinners. Haemorrhage inside the brain is due to high blood pressure and rupture of blood vessel. It can be due to rupture of vascular malformation like AVM, aneurysm, or dural AVF," explains Dr Rahul Gupta, Director Neuro Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Noida.

Elaborating on the treatment strategies in case of a large haemorrhage, Dr Gupta says "they need surgery and evacuation as a life-saving measure. The angiography of the brain is needed to diagnose any vascular malformation and that is treated accordingly. Vascular malformation can be treated by open surgery like clipping of aneurysm or excision of AVM or can be treated by embolisation in Neurocathlab by endovascular methods like coiling, stenting, glue insertion, or intraluminal device placement."

"In elderly, trivial trauma may lead to small SDH, which may gradually expand and become chronic SDH. This may require burr holes and evacuation if the patient becomes symptomatic," the expert adds.

Symptoms of brain bleeding

Sudden and severe headache is a telltale sign of a brain haemorrhage in most cases and may be associated with high blood pressure.

"Brain haemorrhage presents as sudden severe headache in 80 per cent cases. This headache may be associated with loss of consciousness, vomiting, or limb weakness. Rarely, there can be a seizure or blurring of vision. Uncommonly, there can be repeated minor headaches, which may indicate repeated minor bleeding. These are called sentinel bleeds. They may be associated with high blood pressure and are like warning signs," says Dr Gupta.

How to diagnose brain bleeding

Timing is of essence when it comes to diagnosing brain bleeds and CT scan must be performed immediately to detect them.

"CT scan brain is the most important investigation to detect brain bleeding. Sometimes MRI and angiography are needed. Surgery may be needed in one third patients hence patient should be shifted to hospital, immediately where all facilities are available. In these cases, time is of great importance and every passing minute is valuable. Any delay in treatment can lead to death of patient. Of all the patients who need surgery, about 50 per cent have a good outcome if treated aggressively in a good hospital. Other patients may remain bedridden or dependent on care giver. About 10% may not survive. In the last few decades with advent of advanced care in multispeciality hospitals and good operative and ICU facilities, results have improved drastically," concluded the expert.
The drive to cleanse ourselves of the colonial mindset has triggered many actions in our polity. Having an indigenous approach to life couldnt be more welcome as it reinforces ones belief in the uniqueness of ones country. While some actions may be symbolic, the nub of any such drive must have substance to generate the necessary effect. In the recent past, the thrust, somehow, seems to be to mould the Indian armed forces in a manner, and at a pace, that seems to suggest that only they represent all ills that were British. Nothing can be further from the truth  and nothing could be more damaging to the esprit de corps and operational ethos of our fighting forces. Three avenues are being used in this campaign.

First, the professional realm where the Indianisation of thought, knowledge and wisdom is being pursued. Wisdom is a distillate from knowledge derived from disparate sources--these could be found in traditional practices and historical or colonial times, for they are not a preserve of any period or grouping. A Kautilya is as timeless as a Sun Tzu or a Clausewitz  and they (and others too) should be welcomed if our military is to achieve world-class standards. Sidelining an Alfred Mahan or Trenchard because they were foreigners and postulated in our colonial times would be folly, just as neglecting Shivaji would be. Surely, the Prime Minister didnt mean reducing the import of foreign strategists when he expounded the Indianisation idea in a tri-service conference some years ago.

The second avenue for Indianisation is through the increasing use of the forces in extensive outreach programmes in the civilian sphere. It is imperative that this be seen through the prism of the core competencies of the armed forces which are in fighting wars. The forces are adept at subjects of national security, discipline and adherence to law, ethics, civic values and a spirit of sacrifice. The roles of the civilian set-up, being different, must not be an area for outreach by the forces outside the garrisons; cleaning the hills is not their core job and neither is making bridges in metros or providing support for non-forces related events. Excessive exposure of the military to the civilian environment will affect the cutting edge adversely, to the detriment of its fighting ability.

The third is the jettisoning/modification of centuries-old physical embellishments like uniforms, mess traditions and practices that are part of their heritage and said to be negatively affecting them due to the colonial mindset they supposedly bring along. If this was true then, barring the 1962 war, India would not have been victorious in the other three. Those veterans delivered because of their professionalism  their spurs, cross-belts, swords, Jodhpuris, and western-style suits were (and are) important props to enhance the unique bonding that exists amongst uniformed men and women. Heritage and legacy have an intangible value of instilling that vital ingredient called esprit de corps that a non-uniformed person cannot fathom. Surely, the national leadership, irrespective of the party in office, does not want to reduce this fundamental quality that makes up a fighting force.

So, what can the services do to Indianise? The underlying aim of all such activities should be to pass on to the youth some learnings from their core competencies. Thus, the IAFs Surya Kiran and Sarang aerobatic teams subtly tell them that discipline, precision, orderliness and capability count in task execution. Lectures to young school and college students on leadership and Indias war history, with visits to operational airbases, Army installations and naval ships would enthuse young minds like nothing else.

And a fundamental point to mull over. The actual harm ensuing from a colonial mindset is the inherent mentality to go overboard to impress outsiders that gets associated with it; two examples are offered. Arent we guilty of the extensive and expanding use of the word honourable which has percolated down to ridiculous levels in our society? This has even reached school functions where guests get addressed with this honorific. To me, the President and Vice President are the only two that must be referred to as such  they are constitutional heads of our Republic. And second, shouldnt there be an embargo on the dance-drama extravaganza that has been happening for visiting foreign delegations and dignitaries down the years? It is time the atithi devo bhava (guest is God) mentality be moderated in a rising, modern and forward-looking India.

Manmohan Bahadur is a retired Air Vice Marshal, and former additional director general, Centre for Air Power Studies. The views expressed are personal
Earlier this month, surgeons at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston achieved a first in medicine when they successfully transplanted a genetically modified pig kidney into a 62-year-old man. This surgery in a living patient offers hope to millions of individuals on transplant waiting lists worldwide who are in critical need of a kidney.

Following the failure of a previous kidney transplant and life-threatening complications from dialysis, a pig kidney transplant now offers Richard Rick Slayman a solution that could potentially save his life.

Slayman had battled kidney disease for over ten years. Despite undergoing dialysis and kidney transplant in 2018, Rick's condition had worsened significantly, leaving him in a state of despair. The team at Massachusetts General Hospital worked for a year to plan this surgery, which received special permission from US regulators on compassionate grounds.

Also, in March, a team at Xijing Hospital in Xian, China transplanted a pig liver into a human for the first time. This operation was performed on a 50-year-old man who was clinically dead, with his family's consent. The pig liver, which came from a genetically modified miniature pig, was connected to the man's blood vessels and worked for ten days (as indicated by bile production) before being removed.

Both experiments advance the field of xenotransplantation considerably. Xenotransplantation involves transferring live cells, tissues, or organs from animals to humans. This field has held promise for addressing the critical organ shortage faced by many patients worldwide for many years.

You might be asking yourself a question: Why do we need pig organs to replace human ones?

Ideally, advances in cell biology could eliminate the need for animal organs, allowing for the creation of tissues and organs in labs or through 3D printing. However, the reality is that the demand for transplants far exceeds available human donors, leading to the deaths of countless patients waiting for a match.

Pigs have a longstanding history in medical transplants, serving as sources for everything from corneal to heart valve transplants. Their anatomical and physiological similarities to humans make them ideal candidates for organ donation. They grow quickly, can be genetically modified, and their organs are a compatible size for human transplantation.

However, challenges have existed for many years. The 80-million-year evolutionary gap between pigs and humans means we are quite unlike each other. Pig organs are instantly identified as foreign by the human immune system, often leading to immediate rejection. Pig cells carry unique sugars not found in humans, triggering immune responses that can result in transplant failure. Additionally, differences in blood clotting and the presence of viruses in pig DNA pose risks for human recipients.

The xenotransplants this year will need to be followed up. However, the initial success can be attributed to monumental efforts to overcome these differences. Extensive modifications were made possible by gene-editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, which were employed to alter pig genomes in ways that reduce the risk of organ rejection and viral transmission.

Scientists made 69 changes to the pigs DNA to prevent the human immune system from rejecting the kidney. This surgery also builds on past attempts, like the 2022 transplant of a pig kidney into a brain-dead patient and a pig heart into a critically ill patient.

Meanwhile, the operation in China employed a pig liver that had undergone six genetic modifications. Given the complexity of how the liver works, this approach will serve mainly as a temporary solution for liver failure, buying time for patients waiting for a human liver donor.

So, does that mean pig organs will become commonplace? No, at least, not yet.

As exciting as the initial successes are, theres still a long way to go. Experts around the world will follow Slaymans health and will examine the details of the surgery in China carefully. They are closely watching future developments, in anticipation of additional xenotransplantation results that will extend or save lives.

Anirban Mahapatra is a scientist and the author of COVID-19: Separating Fact From Fiction. His second popular science book, When The Drugs Dont Work: The Hidden Pandemic That Could End Medicine, will be published this year. The views expressed are personal.
The worrying trend of suicides by IIT students has continued in 2024, with five suicides recorded in the first three months of the year alone. According to the Union education ministry, 39 students died by suicide in the IITs between 2018 and 2023. PREMIUM Students who belong to Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) communities, like Darshan Solanki from IIT Bombay (who died by suicide in February 2023) or Anil Kumar from IIT Delhi (who died by suicide in September 2023), often have little support on campus.(Agency File Photo)

Students who belong to Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) communities, like Darshan Solanki from IIT Bombay (who died by suicide in February 2023) or Anil Kumar from IIT Delhi (who died by suicide in September 2023), often have little support on campus. In response to this crisis  as well as to larger, systemic issues that students from marginalised communities face in IIT campuses around the country  the Global IIT Alumni Support Group, a professional networking platform of over 500 alumni from constitutionally marginalised groups, working to promote higher education among SC/ST students, realised that extensive mental health support was needed. The group realised that a mentorship programme for SC/ST students of IITs was the answer.

Inspired by the philosophy of social justice, the groups mission is to support the academic, professional and social progress of students as well as to advocate for better diversity in higher education.

Identifying the problem(s)

The alumni group first focused on assisting IIT Kanpur graduates who were yet to find employment and started a mentorship programme in April 2023. Right away, the group reckoned with challenges like psychological pressure on students, partly because of a false public assumption that all IITians receive large compensation packages. This is bolstered by the fact that IITs never reveal the number of students who remain unplaced.

Apart from mental stress, discrimination, and language barriers, SC/ST students talked about the lack of available mechanisms such as dedicated mentoring with standard placement guidance and an SC/ST cell. These students reported feelings of social isolation, and imposter syndrome, and said they received inadequate support from the faculty.

The group was able to assist 20 students in finding employment by August.

Around the same time, two Dalit students, Ayush Ashna and Kumar, died by suicide on the campus of IIT Delhi. Rattled, the alumni group decided to extend the mentorship programme to all IITs.

In October 2023, the group introduced a special pro bono career mentorship programme for the final year undergraduate as well as postgraduate students in all the 23 IITs. We emailed all the IITs asking them to inform the SC/ST students enrolled with them about the mentoring programme. Only a few responded positively. Word-of-mouth, social media, and print helped us reach out to the intended student population.

The programme eventually attracted 350 students from 15 IITs. These students were trained in preparing a CV, enhancing their communication skills, and taking part in mock interviews led by professionals. They also received individual feedback, and we helped locate off-campus employment.

Aid through contextual mentoring

What makes this programme special is the contextual mentoring by 50 alumni mentors who share similar backgrounds, have overcome comparable challenges, and are thriving in their careers.

Additionally, mentors connected students in critical situations to medical professionals who could offer emotional aid.

One such instance cropped up when a student from IIT Kharagpur reached out to us with thoughts of suicide and pleaded for assistance. We took immediate action, arranging for the student to see a psychiatrist to defuse the crisis. There were other instances of a similar nature as nearly half the students in the programme identified emotional support as their biggest need of the hour.

The other need they identified was mentoring to tackle the challenging job market.

Our first triumph came early. Rajesh, an IIT Guwahati student, had difficulty speaking in English and reverted to Hindi during a group discussion. Upon seeing him, others did the same. Eventually, he aced the interview round and was hired. Rajeshs father works as a daily wage labourer in Gujarat. How did the family respond to the wonderful news, we asked him. "They are happy, but do not know beyond that," he stated plainly.

Our work began to pay off and we received messages proving this.

Dear Sir, I got placed. I am grateful to you for your initiation and efforts to give us such detailed and effective guidance. I am really happy that individuals like you are still there, giving their precious time and efforts to help others. I am eagerly waiting for the opportunity to contribute and give back, Anand, an IIT Kanpur student, said.

I got placed and I thank you with all my heart, for all the support you gave. The podcast and mock interviews helped me to keep pushing myself even at Day 8 [of placements] [when I] lost all hope, Asha, an IIT Kharagpur student, wrote to us.

I read messages, struggled, practised mocks, and after five failed interviews I finally got placed, Vandana, an IIT Guwahati student, told us.

To date, more than 100 students who were part of the mentoring programme have been placed in jobs in a range of multinational companies.

Unquestionably, the mentorship initiative's successful social experiment has demonstrated how much students, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds, require alumni support to navigate the challenges of their education, careers, and personal lives.

We hope that mentorship programmes become a mainstay at the IITs to address some of their urgent problems, such as making sure their students have excellent job possibilities and preventing fatalities on campus.

Dheeraj Singh, an IIT Kanpur and IIM Calcutta alumnus, is a strategy and finance professional based in Gurugram. He is the founder of the Global IIT Alumni Support Group. The views expressed are personal.
Real estate major DLF Ltd is raising 600 crore through issue of non-convertible debentures (NCDs) to investors, the company said in a regulatory filing on March 27. Real estate major DLF Ltd is raising  600 crore through issue of non-convertible debentures (NCDs) to investors, the company said in a regulatory filing on March 27.(Representational image/HT Archive)

The company's wholly owned subsidiary DLF Home Developers Ltd is raising the amount.

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The Securities Allotment Committee of the Board of Directors of DHDL has approved the allotment of 60,000 NCDs, having face value of 1 lakh each, for an aggregate principal amount of 600 crore on a private placement basis to eligible investors, it said in its regulatory filing.

Also Read: DLF Q3 profit increases by 27% to 656 crore

...this is to inform you that the Securities Allotment Committee of the Board of Directors of DLF Home Developers Limited (DHDL), a wholly-owned material subsidiary, in its meeting held today i.e. 27th March 2024 has approved the allotment of 60,000  8.50% senior, secured, rated, listed, redeemable, guaranteed, rupee denominated Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs) of the face value of  1,00,000/- each, for an aggregate principal amount of  600 crore (Rupees Six Hundred crore only) on a private placement basis, to the eligible investors, the company said in a regulatory filing.

Also Read: DLF sells land parcel in Chennai for 735 cr to Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company

DLF Group has 215 mn sq ft of development potential across residential and commercial segments. The group has an annuity portfolio of over 42 mn sq ft.

Also Read: DLF flat in Gurugram sold for 95 crore. Here are the details

DLF plans to launch properties worth nearly 80,000 crore over the next 3-4 years to tap rising demand for housing and commercial projects.

Also Read: DLF to launch properties worth almost 80,000 crore over the next 3-4 years
NBCC (India) Ltd, the governments construction arm, has sold commercial space spread across an area of 4.8 lakh sq ft for 1905 crore in the World Trade Centre located in Delhi, the company said in a statement. NBCC (India) Ltd, the governments construction arm, has sold commercial space spread across an area of 4.8 lakh sqft for  1905 crore in the World Trade Centre at Nauroji Nagar, New Delhi.

Power Finance Corporation Limited, Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited and Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited are the major organizations who bought space during the 25th e-auction of the WTC.

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Also Read: NBCC sells 2 lakh sq ft commercial space in South Delhis World Trade Centre for 828 crore

In the 25th e-auction for commercial space at World Trade Centre (WTC) in Nauroji Nagar here, NBCC achieved the highest sale realization till date with the sale of 4.8 lakh square feet of commercial space for 1,905 crore, NBCC said.

Out of the total area sold, around 4.38 lakh square feet having sale value of approximately 1,740 crore has been sold to public sector undertaking entities. The total numbers of successful bidders were five, out of which three were PSU bidders and two private entities.

Also Read: NBCC to develop 13,250 premium flats in 5 Amrapali projects in Greater Noida

The sale marks a significant milestone for the company and demonstrates the exceptional demand for premium commercial space in India's capital, NBCC said in a statement.

As on date, the company has sold a total commercial inventory of over 30 lakh sq ft through 25 e-auctions having a sale value of over 12,100 crore. The WTC project, a landmark development, has attracted marquee buyers across various industries. The project is rapidly progressing towards completion with more than 94% of physical progress achieved, it said.

Also Read: NBCC gets approval from Greater Noida Authority to develop five Amrapali projects worth 10,000 crore

World Trade Centre has been developed as a commercial centre having approximately 34 lakh sq ft of commercial built-up area and has been constructed in place of 628 old/ dilapidated quarters. Situated in Nauroji Nagar, the WTC enjoys close proximity to major establishments, recreational areas, and transportation hubs like the Ring Road, metro stations, airports, and hospitals.



This makes it an attractive location for businesses seeking connectivity and accessibility. The project encompasses about 25 acres of land and features 12 towers, each with 10 floors, offering ample space for businesses to grow and expand, the company said.

Also Read: Delhi's World Trade Centre to soon be ready for business; four of the 12 buildings ready to be occupied
Earths changing spin is threatening to toy with our sense of time, clocks and computerized society in an unprecedented way  but only for a second. Ice melting at both of Earths poles has been counteracting the planet's burst of speed(Rep image)

For the first time in history, world timekeepers may have to consider subtracting a second from our clocks in a few years because the planet is rotating a tad faster than it used to. Clocks may have to skip a second  called a negative leap second  around 2029, a study in the journal Nature said Wednesday.

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This is an unprecedented situation and a big deal, said study lead author Duncan Agnew, a geophysicist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego. Its not a huge change in the Earths rotation thats going to lead to some catastrophe or anything, but it is something notable. Its yet another indication that were in a very unusual time.

Ice melting at both of Earths poles has been counteracting the planet's burst of speed and is likely to have delayed this global second of reckoning by about three years, Agnew said.

We are headed toward a negative leap second," said Dennis McCarthy, retired director of time for the U.S. Naval Observatory who wasnt part of the study. "Its a matter of when.

Its a complicated situation that involves, physics, global power politics, climate change, technology and two types of time.

Earth takes about 24 hours to rotate, but the key word is about.

For thousands of years, the Earth has been generally slowing down, with the rate varying from time to time, said Agnew and Judah Levine, a physicist for the time and frequency division of the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

The slowing is mostly caused by the effect of tides, which are caused by the pull of the moon, McCarthy said.

This didnt matter until atomic clocks were adopted as the official time standard more than 55 years ago. Those didnt slow.

That established two versions of time  astronomical and atomic  and they didn't match. Astronomical time fell behind atomic time by 2.5 milliseconds every day. That meant the atomic clock would say its midnight and to Earth it was midnight a fraction of a second later, Agnew said.

Those daily fractions of seconds added up to whole seconds every few years. Starting in 1972, international timekeepers decided to add a leap second in June or December for astronomical time to catch up to the atomic time, called Coordinated Universal Time or UTC. Instead of 11:59 and 59 seconds turning to midnight, there would be another second at 11:59 and 60 seconds. A negative leap second would go from 11:59 and 58 seconds directly to midnight, skipping 11:59:59.

Between 1972 and 2016, 27 separate leap seconds were added as Earth slowed. But the rate of slowing was tapering off.

In 2016 or 2017 or maybe 2018, the slowdown rate had slowed down to the point that the Earth was actually speeding up, Levine said.

Earths speeding up because its hot liquid core  a large ball of molten fluid  acts in unpredictable ways, with eddies and flows that vary, Agnew said.

Agnew said the core has been triggering a speedup for about 50 years, but rapid melting of ice at the poles since 1990 masked that effect. Melting ice shifts Earths mass from the poles to the bulging center, which slows the rotation much like a spinning ice skater slows when extending their arms out to their sides, he said.

Without the effect of melting ice, Earth would need that negative leap second in 2026 instead of 2029, Agnew calculated.

For decades, astronomers had been keeping universal and astronomical time together with those handy little leap seconds. But computer system operators said those additions arent easy for all the precise technology the world now relies on. In 2012, some computer systems mishandled the leap second, causing problems for Reddit, Linux, Qantas Airlines and others, experts said.

"What is the need for this adjustment in time when it causes so many problems? McCarthy said.

But Russias satellite system relies on astronomical time, so eliminating leap seconds would cause them problems, Agnew and McCarthy said. Astronomers and others wanted to keep the system that would add a leap second whenever the difference between atomic and astronomical time neared a second.

In 2022, the worlds timekeepers decided that starting in the 2030s theyd change the standards for inserting or deleting a leap second, making it much less likely.

Tech companies such as Google and Amazon unilaterally instituted their own solutions to the leap second issue by gradually adding fractions of a second over a full day, Levine said.

The fights are so serious because the stakes are so small, Levine said.

Then add in the weird effect of subtracting, not adding a leap second, Agnew said. Its likely to be tougher to skip a second because software programs are designed to add, not subtract time, McCarthy said.

McCarthy said the trend toward needing a negative leap second is clear, but he thinks its more to do with the Earth becoming more round from geologic shifts from the end of the last ice age.

Three other outside scientists said Agnew's study makes sense, calling his evidence compelling.

But Levine doesnt think a negative leap second will really be needed. He said the overall slowing trend from tides has been around for centuries and continues, but the shorter trends in Earths core come and go.

This is not a process where the past is a good prediction of the future, Levine said. Anyone who makes a long-term prediction on the future is on very, very shaky ground.
A man from Sydney, Australia, was accused of chopping off a portion of his deceased brother's ear to support a DNA theory he thought would help him win in an inheritance dispute. On the day of his brother's funeral, Jian Zhong Li took his son and sneaked up to his brother's coffin. Jian then chopped off a portion of his sibling's ear. He claims he had "no other choice" in a desperate attempt to prove his nephew was illegitimate, as per reports. On the day of his brother's funeral, Jian Zhong Li sneaked up to his brother's coffin and cut a portion of his ear. (Pixabay)

According to the Daily Star, he was convinced that his nephew Cheng Zhang Li, the son of his brother Jian Ming Li, who died at the age of 58 from a lung disease, was illegitimate since he grew a "suspicious" beard. If this were true, Cheng would no longer be entitled to the deceased's inheritance, which included a million-dollar mansion in Petersham. (Also Read: Doctors shocked to find a 32 cm live eel inside Vietnamese man's rectum, perform emergency surgery)

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While speaking to A Current Affair, Jian said that he asked for a a sample of his brother's skin or hair but was turned down by the funeral director. He then admitted that he had taken part of the ear for "a little bit for the DNA". He further said, "We can't cut whole. I just wanted a sample, a little bit." Jian also mentioned that he wanted his mother to be a part of the inheritance as she lived in poor conditions.

He stated that he placed the ear in a "plastic bag" and then in a glass container, which he stored in the refrigerator. His dark secret came to light only when he attempted to confirm the sample's legitimacy. (Also Read: 45-year-old fakes death, later shows up at his funeral)

He required the burial services to sign a document stating that the piece of the ear was real, and when they refused, they notified the deceased's next of kin. Cops subsequently raided the fridge and took the ear. He admitted to his offence at Burwood Local Court last year and was fined $1500 (approximately. 1.25 lakhs).

Later, it was found that Cheng was the legitimate son of Jian Ming Li.
A 26-year-old woman, a B.Tech graduate from Noida, was arrested by HAL police for allegedly stealing 24 laptops valued at 10 lakh from paying guest (PG) accommodations and software companies in Bengaluru. After an individual living in the PG complained about the lost valuables, the HAL police tracked down the accused using CCTV camera footage and other evidence. On March 26, they arrested Jassi Agarwal, a resident of Noida, as per reports. The woman would sell stolen products on the black market in her hometown. (Pixabay)

According to The Hindu, a police investigation discovered that Jassi was a B.Tech graduate who worked in a private bank for a while before staying in a PG for a few days. She would wait for the other tenants to go for a snack break before entering their rooms to steal their laptops and other valuable items. (Also Read: Bengaluru techie alleges sexual harassment by delivery agent: He followed me into kitchen)

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She would then sell the stolen products on the black market in her hometown. When she returned to Bengaluru, she would move into another PG to do the same. She stopped her work around a year ago and focused only on stealing high-end devices, police told The Hindu.

Earlier, Pune police arrested a 24-year-old IT professional in an alleged mobile theft case. The accused, Rushikesh Prabhakar Patil of the KK Market area, worked at a private enterprise. Patil was nabbed by police for allegedly stealing mobile phones and bags from students taking competitive exams in Pune.

The accused used to frequent the Ramtekdi digital hub test centre, where he would steal mobile phones and other valuables from students' bags left outside their rooms. After a student found that his bag was missing and another's cell phone was stolen, the robbery came to light. The affected students filed a complaint with the Wanowrie police station. (Also Read: Bengaluru techie loses 68 lakh to fraudsters by trying to sell his bed online: Report)

Based on information received from a tip, the police set up a trap and captured the suspect, who was riding a bike and could be seen on CCTV.
Scholarship Awards 2024

The Department of Education has announced that the application window for Scholarship Awards tenable for the 2024/2025 year is open. The scholarship window for new awards will close at 23:59 (Gibraltar Time) on Friday 7th June 2024.

School Awards

The window allows eligible students, who are currently completing or who completed their A Level / Level 3 studies in June 2023 or June 2022, to submit their intention to embark on their Undergraduate studies. Further information on these School Awards and how to apply has already been provided to students via their respective schools.

Continuing Students

The window also allows students who are current Scholarship Award holders to submit their Continuation of Existing Award form in order for them to continue to receive funding for their current Undergraduate award, upon successful completion of the current academic year.

Similarly, students who are completing a Distance Learning course and are current Scholarship Award holders, are invited to submit their Distance Learning Continuation of Existing Award form.

Continuing students will be able to submit their Continuation of Existing Award form via the Department of Educations website www.education.gov.gi once they have received the results and progression letter for this academic year from their University. Students are asked not to complete a Continuation of Existing Award form until they have received their transcript of results from their University.

Please note that the Continuation of Existing Award form only applies to students who are moving into another year of study in their current course. The deadline for new applicants does not apply to continuing students. However, continuing students are advised that the earlier the form is submitted, the sooner they will receive their funding.

Students who have successfully completed a Foundation year and wish to embark on an Undergraduate course of study are invited to submit a Foundation to Undergraduate Progression form. Students are asked not to complete a Foundation to Undergraduate Progression form until they have received their transcript of results from their University. The deadline for new applicants does not apply to students in this position, however, students in this position are advised that the earlier the form is submitted, the sooner they will receive their funding.

Other Funding Applications

The scholarship window also welcomes applications from eligible individuals for new Postgraduate applications, new Discretionary applications and new Distance Learning applications.

All eligible students who have completed or will complete their current Undergraduate or Postgraduate offering by the end of the 2024/2025 academic year, and are wishing to continue onto further studies, should submit an application for funding via the New Scholarship Award application form. It is critical that eligible students wishing to continue into Postgraduate studies submit their application by 23:59 (Gibraltar Time) on Friday 7th June 2024 and via the New Scholarship Award application form process. Applications received after the deadline or through the incorrect mechanism will not be considered and funding will not be afforded.

New Discretionary Award applications will also be considered through the New Scholarship Award application form process. New Distance Learning applications will be considered through the Distance Learning application form process.

Priority will be given to those individuals who require an additional qualification in order to complete their professional studies, where the individual has already embarked on such a pathway during their Undergraduate course of study.

Additionally, the New Scholarship Award application process will prioritise applications from eligible individuals who are wishing to follow courses deemed to be critical to the future success of Gibraltar.

Submitting an application via the New Scholarship Award application process will not guarantee future funding and students are advised not to enter into financial commitments on the basis of the submission of this form. After the deadline for submissions has passed, all New Scholarship Award application forms will be duly considered. The outcomes of these applications will be communicated to individuals at the earliest opportunity as from Wednesday 26th June 2024.

The window for new applications under the Schools Award, New Scholarship Award or Distance Learning Award is open until 23:59 (Gibraltar Time) on Friday 7th June 2024. Late submissions will not be considered.
A woman took to Reddit to share a screenshot of a text message and claimed that she received it from her boss after missing work due to her fathers death. The post has prompted chatter among netizens, with many expressing their anger. The image shows a part of a text message an employee received from her boss after taking time off for her father's death. (Reddit/@viviana1994)

My dad died, and Ive missed some work. He was in the ICU for two weeks, so I missed quite a bit of work. I get that its not ideal. But I called in today. And this is the response I get, the Reddit user wrote.

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While replying to her own post, she added, My dad was in the ICU from January 25th-February 10th when we pulled the plug and he passed away. I called and told her I would be taking a week off when I realised that things werent getting better. I went back to work a couple of days before he died and then took two days off for the funeral. So, I ended up taking about a total of 10 days off. I went back to work on February 15th and this was the first time Ive called off since I went back to work.

In the text she received, her boss criticised her and added, We all go through a lot of things, but no matter what, we have to show up every day.

Take a look at the entire text here:

The post was shared a day ago. Since then, the share has accumulated over 6,000 upvotes. The post has also prompted people to share various reactions.

What did Reddit users say about this post?

"My dad died suddenly, and I got the phone call while at work. I said, 'I have to go', and walked right out the door without explaining. That night, I texted my manager and explained what happened. She said, 'Don't worry about work. Take as long as you need'. I showed up a week and a half later after receiving flowers from my workplace. When I got back, they asked, 'Are you sure you're ready to be back?' That's how it should be," expressed a Reddit user.

"Do not quit this job! Make them fire you. Make sure you keep every text you have! And get an email address so you can write to them through email. Make sure you keep all the responses," suggested another.

"Your boss is a terrible leader. They can't shoulder the burden of doing their job and dealing with unexpected circumstances. That is not remotely on you, nor should you spare a moment's thought in your time of loss. Employees are not a steady thing. That's by design. Human life is complicated. If her register broke, she'd figure it out. This is no different," joined a third.

"My hermit uncle died, a man I had only met five times in my life. When I mentioned this at work, both HR and my boss said, 'Why are you working right now? You should take some time for yourself. It disgusts me that OP is having to fight for time off to grieve their dad," wrote a fourth.
The Indian embassy in Beijing, China, hosted a whisky tasting event earlier this month. At the event, the embassy introduced seven different kinds of whiskies from different Indian brands. These whiskies were paired with traditional Indian delicacies. The official X handle of India in China shared about the event on the microblogging platform and also posted pictures from the gathering. Snapshot of the whisky tasting event in embassy of India in Beijing. (X/@EOIBeijing)

"On March 5, Embassy of India in Beijing hosted a remarkable Indian Whisky Tasting Event featuring 7 exceptional whiskies from Amrut, Paul John, and Indri. A step towards introducing more of India's finest to the world!" wrote India in China in the post. (Also Read: Why is China provoking India over Arunachal Pradesh?)

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They also shared, "The event, inaugurated by Ambassador Mr. Pradeep Kumar Rawat, welcomed the whisky experts as well as enthusiasts of China to taste seven exceptional Indian whiskies. The tasting was followed by a dinner featuring Indian delicacies that perfectly complemented the whiskies."

In the images shared, you can see Mr. Pradeep Kumar Rawat, speaking about the event. In another pictures, people can also be seen tasting different kinds of whiskies.

Take a look at the post here:

This post was shared on March 27. Since being posted, the initial tweet has received more than 5,000 views. The share also has numerous likes and comments. Many people flocked to the comments section of the post to share their reactions. (Also Read: India backs Philippines national sovereignty, says Jaishankar; China bristles)

Check out how X users reacted to the post:

An individual wrote, "With Indian whiskey comes the quintessential chakhana! That's how you know this was an Indian event."

A second said, "Great. You should have also added GianChand Single Malt Whisky."

"China has a long history of liquor and wine, older than Europe," posted a third.

A fourth added, "Love this! Now thats the diplomacy I can get behind."
Gen-Z employees in China are ditching traditional office attire for a new workplace trend. As per reports, an increasing number of people are dressing up in snug slumber wear and donning "gross" pyjamas while at work. Under the gross pyjama trend, many Gen-Z employees are opting for casual clothing options (Representational Image). (Unsplash/@Sincerely Media)

"I just want to wear whatever I want," Cindy Luo, a 30-year-old interior designer in Wuhan, Hubei province, told the New York Post. "I just don't think it's worth spending money to dress up for work since I'm just sitting there," Luo added.

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What is the gross pyjamas trend?

As per the New York Post, people have been flooding the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu with visuals of them working while wearing "gross outfits at work". People are seen working while wearing sleepwear, sweatpants, and similar casual clothing items.

What prompted this office trend?

This trend is seen as a response to the "breakneck rat race of previous generations", reported the New York Post. It signifies how the present generation of employees favours a "more easygoing, uncomplicated life".

As per the outlet, Gen-Z employees also want to show that their outfits don't reflect their abilities or capabilities to do their work.

"It's the progress of the times," Xiao Xueping, a psychologist in Beijing, told the outlet about this new office clothing trend.
Google took to Instagram to share an interesting post about animals. The company shared random yet adorable facts about various animals, including dogs and penguins. Google shared pictures on Instagram showing random facts about dogs, penguins, and other animals. (Instagram/@googleindia)

"Sharing these otterly adorable facts with you," Google wrote and added a series of images. The pictures show the template one gets when searching for something on Google.

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The first visual shows the words "Do penguins fall in love" written on the search bar at the top of the page. Below is a picture of a penguin with an answer that reads, "Once they have decided on a partner, male penguins search long and hard for the perfect gift to present their new love, it comes in the form of a beautiful, smooth pebble. It is common for male penguins to even fight other penguins for the pebble they've set their hearts on".

Take a look at this entire post to see what else Google shared:

The post was shared about 16 hours ago. Since then, it has collected more than 5,800 likes. The share has further accumulated several comments from people. A few also reacted using heart emojis.

What did Instagram users say about this post by Google?

"That's why everyone uses Google!" wrote an Instagram user.

"Wholesome pro max," added another.

"Such adorable facts. I love them," joined a third.

"This is so cute," wrote a fourth.

What are your thoughts on these random yet interesting animal facts shared by Google? Did any of these take you by surprise?
Former England captain Kevin Pietersen had words of praise for the new terminal at the Bengaluru airport, saying it cannot be compared to any other airport in the world. Bengaluru airport's Terminal 2 left Kevin Pietersen impressed. (Twitter/@KP24)

"Just travelled through the brand new airport in Bangalore. Its absolutely world class. Can be put up against any airport around the world. Wow," he wrote on X (formerly Twitter), sharing a clip from Terminal 2 of the airport.

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Kevin Pietersen is among the thousands of people who have publicly praised the new airport of Kempegowda International Airport for its visual appeal and grandeur. He is a commentator in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. In the past, Pietersen has played for IPL teams Delhi Daredevils and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Bengaluru airport authorities thanked Pietersen through the airports official X handle.

Hello@KP24, we're thrilled to receive your outstanding praise. Our priority is always ensuring that all our passengers have the finest travel experience, they said.

Watch the Bengaluru airport clip shared by Kevin Pietersen:

The terminal was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2022. The domestic operations at Terminal 2 began in last January. Since September last year, all international operations are from this terminal.

Late last year, Prix Versailles, a Paris based architectural awards jury, recognised Bengaluru airport's T2 as one of the most beautiful airport terminals in the world and gave the prestigious "Special Prize for an Interior".

The vast terminal, with lush greenery, is designed honouring the Garden City as Bengaluru is called.

The construction for the terminal - to be made in two phases - began in October 2018. Phase 1, with an area of over 2.55 lakh square meters, was designed to accommodate 25 million passengers per annum (MPPA). The second phase, still in the planning stage, is estimated to have the capacity to handle 20 million passengers in a year.
Saudi Arabia is gearing up to make its debut in the renowned Miss Universe competition in 2024 with the participation of its first-ever representative- Rumy Alqahtani. Alqahtani, a well-known runway model from Riyadh, has already made a name for herself in the beauty pageant industry by competing in several competitions across the globe, like the Miss and Mrs Global Asian competition held in Malaysia, as per reports. Rumy Alqahtani shared this picture on Instagram.

According to Emirates Woman, the 27-year-old model and influencer has already won the titles of Miss Saudi Arabia, Miss Middle East, Miss Arab World Peace, and Miss Woman (Saudi Arabia).

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Alqahtani took to Instagram to share the exciting news of Saudi Arabia entering the Miss Universe 2024 pageant. She posted a picture of her in a silver-coloured sequin gown, donning a Miss Universe Saudi Arabia sash, and standing beside the Saudi flag. (Also Read: Miss Universe 2023 Sheynnis Palacios's fashion spin to Nicaragua-inspired gowns)

In the caption of the post, she wrote, "Honored to participate in Miss Universe 2024. This is the first participation of Saudi Arabia in the Miss Universe competition."

Take a look at her post here:

This post was shared two days ago. Since being posted, it has gained over 7,000 likes and numerous comments. Many people took to the comments section of the post to express their reactions.

How did Instagram users react to this news?

An individual wrote, "So proud of you queen."

A second said, "Proud of your success."

"Congratulations, sister," posted a third.

A fourth commented, "The most beautiful girl in Saudi Arabia."

Many others also reacted to her post using heart emojis.

More about Miss Universe 2024:

According to its website, "The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) is a global, inclusive organization that celebrates all cultures, backgrounds and religions. We create and provide a safe space for women to share their stories and drive impact personally, professionally, and philanthropically."

This year, the pageant will be held in Mexico.
A 36-year-old woman, who is the daughter of a mayor in Nepal, has been found after she went missing in Goa, her father said in an update on Facebook on Wednesday morning. He added that she is currently in a weak condition and thanked those who were involved in the search efforts. Aarti Hamal is the elder daughter of Gopal Hamal. (Facebook/MGopalHamal)

Gopal Hamal, mayor of the Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city in Nepal, had said his elder daughter, Aarti, a follower of Osho meditation, had been staying in Goa for the past few months.

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"I express my gratitude to all the people who helped in the search work, along with the helpful Nepali brothers and sisters living in Goa," he wrote in a message on Facebook.

He had said on Tuesday that his youngest daughter and her husband were flying to Goa to search for Aarti.

Along with my eldest daughter Aarti, youngest daughter Arzoo and son-in-law, I inform everyone that they are together, he wrote.

Hamal had put a status on Facebook on Tuesday, seeking any information on his missing daughter.

She was last seen on Monday night around 9:30 pm in the vicinity of North Goa's Ashvem Bridge. Her younger sister Arzoo Hamal took to social media and said that according to some callers, she was last spotted at a bridge near Siolim. She also said that a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed by the Goa Police in connection with the case. She said that she had received over 500 calls after she left for Lucknow. She was to take an early morning flight to Goa from Hyderabad, she said.

A few of them believe that she was taken to a hospital from there in an ambulance as she was found unconscious while the others have been saying that she was taken to the police station, she wrote on Facebook.
Researchers in Denmark are using artificial intelligence and data from millions of people to predict the stages of an individual's life from beginning to end, with the goal of raising awareness of the technology's capabilities and risks. The creators of life2vec wish to investigate patterns and links that so-called deep-learning programs might reveal in order to forecast a wide range of health or social "life-events". Danish researchers are working on an AI model that can predict life, and death. (Pixabay)

"It's a very general framework for making predictions about human lives. It can predict anything where you have training data," Sune Lehmann, a professor at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) and one of the authors of a study recently published in the journal Nature Computational Science, told AFP.

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For Lehmann, the possibilities are endless. She told AFP, "It could predict health outcomes. So it could predict fertility or obesity, or you could maybe predict who will get cancer or who doesn't get cancer. But it could also predict if you're going to make a lot of money," he said. (Also Read: Bengaluru water management body brings in AI, IoT technologies to manage borewells amid crisis: Report)

The algorithm follows an approach comparable to ChatGPT, but instead examines variables that affect life, such as birth, education, social benefits, and even work schedules.

The team is trying to adapt the innovations that enabled language-processing algorithms to "examine the evolution and predictability of human lives based on detailed event sequences".

"From one perspective, lives are simply sequences of events: People are born, visit the paediatrician, start school, move to a new location, get married, and so on," Lehmann said to AFP.

However, the program's revelation sparked accusations of a new "death calculator," with some fake websites duping individuals with offers to utilise the AI system for a life expectancy forecast, frequently in exchange for inputting personal data.

The researchers asserted that the program is confidential and not available on the internet or to the larger scientific community for the time being.

The life2vec model is based on anonymised data from around six million Danes provided by the official Statistics Denmark agency. Life outcomes can be predicted till the last breath by analysing sequences of occurrences.

When it comes to predicting death, the algorithm is right in 78% of cases; when it comes to predicting if a person would relocate to another city or country, it is correct in 73% of cases. (Also Read: Pakistani artist imagines how Disney princesses in 1950s South Asia would look like with AI. Seen them yet?)

"We look at early mortality. So we take a very young cohort between 35 and 65. Then we try to predict, based on an eight-year period from 2008 to 2016, if a person dies in the subsequent four years. The model can do that really well, better than any other algorithm that we could find," Lehmann said to AFP.

According to the researchers, focusing on this age group -- where deaths are typically rare -- allows them to test the algorithm's reliability. However, the instrument is not yet ready for use outside of a research environment.

"For now, it's a research project where we're exploring what's possible and what's not possible," Lehmann said. He and his colleagues also want to explore long-term outcomes, as well as the impact of social connections have on life and health.

For the researchers, the study serves as a scientific counterweight to huge technology companies' significant investments in AI algorithms.

"They can also build models like this, but they're not making them public. They're not talking about them," Lehmann said.

"They're just building them to, hopefully for now, sell you more advertisements, or sell more advertisements and sell you more products."

He said it was "important to have an open and public counterpoint to begin to understand what can even happen with data like this".

Pernille Tranberg, a Danish data ethics expert, told AFP that this was especially true because similar algorithms were already being used by businesses such as insurance companies.

"They probably put you into groups and say: 'Okay, you have a chronic disease, the risk is this and this'," Tranberg said.

"It can be used against us to discriminate us so that you will have to pay a higher insurance premium, or you can't get a loan from the bank, or you can't get public health care because you're going to die anyway," she said.

When it comes to predicting our own demise, some developers have already tried to make such algorithms commercial.

"On the web, we're already seeing prediction clocks, which show how old we're going to get," Tranberg said. Some of them aren't at all reliable.
A woman took to X to slam Air India and claimed that the airline gave her mothers business class seat to someone else. She called the incident ridiculous and suggested the airline to do better. A woman took to X to share that someone else occupied her mothers business class seat on an Air India flight (Representational image). (Unsplash/@Lenstravelier)

Air India, how dare you give my moms business class seat to someone else on a long haul flight from Delhi to Washington DC? First, telling her the seat doesnt recline, then saying the seat is for the crew, and then she finds someone else sitting there as she is sent to economy? X user who goes by Vitasta wrote.

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Absolutely ridiculous behaviour and no regard for your customers! We will be complaining about this. Air India, do better! she added.

Take a look at the tweets here:

The first tweet was shared a few hours ago. Since then, it has collected more than 3.9 lakh views. The post has further accumulated nearly 5,100 likes. People shared varied comments while reacting to the tweet.

What did X users say about this post on Air India?

"She booked a business class for her and got economy?" asked an X user. Vitasta replied, "Yes! She was told all this prior to boarding and given an economy seat. While boarding, she saw someone else sitting in the seat she had booked!"

Air India joined this conversation on X and added, "Dear Ma'am, please share your contact number via DM. Let us connect with you over the call". Later, Vitasta posted an update and added, "It's been six hours since I posted this tweet. I will talk to you once my mother lands and I have spoken to her. If she hasn't been given a business class seat/has had an uncomfortable journey in any way, we will discuss this further".

In response, the airline tweeted, "Dear Ma'am, please be rest assured that we're investigating the matter on priority with our airport team. We'll connect with you soon".

An individual wondered, "How can they? Aren't crew seats already designated? The seat shouldn't have been for sale at all in the first place if that was the case".

A third added, "Terrible. Wish she had refused to fly. They better refund the entire fare for the mishap".

A fourth wrote, "That's pathetic".
A recent analysis has revealed that Princess Anne is now doing 70% of the monarchys work. The spike comes in the wake of the King Charles and the Kate Middleton stepping away from their royal tasks as both of them are grappling with health ailments, and severe media scrutiny towards the Princess of Wales for posting an edited family image on Mother's Day. Royal Family faces shift in responsibilities as Princess Anne leads with 55 engagements.

The calls for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to return to the UK gain voice to reduce these mounting workloads.

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The recent royal diary update discloses that the Duke of Cambridge has already moved his royal responsibilities by 20% as compared to last summer to a stunning 30% consequently.

Princess Anne's heavy workload sparks mental health worries

The Royal familys official diary, from 18/03/2024 to 10/5/2024, has in it 55 public engagements that Princess Anne agreed to. Her day will be an exhausting one, as she is attending five events on the same day, and the remaining weekends mean that the national tour means she also attended a trip to Scotland recently. The colossal amount of her responsibilities is one of the key reasons for people to get concerned about her mental health and the discussion whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle should return to being working royals keeps on happening.

In total, the eight-week period in question lists 78 public royal engagements. The Duke and The Duchess of Edinburgh will jointly attend two of these. The breakdown of the engagements is as follows: The Princess Royal with 55, The Duchess of Edinburgh with 13, The Duke of Gloucester and The Duke of Edinburgh with four each, Birgitte, The Duchess of Gloucester with three, and The Queen with one.

ALSO READ| Sean Diddy Combs used affiliation with Prince Harry, other A-listers for legitimacy

Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, comes second in the queendom of royal activities. However, her duties' intensity would be quite similar to that of the Princess Royal if compared to a more hectic schedule.

The future Queen occasionally supports her mother-in-laws overseas trips as evidenced by her appearance in the 13 engagements that are scheduled between March and April. Sophie continues to perform her ceremonial functions as the top representative of the public despite somewhere in the hierarchy.

In the coming 2 months, a significantly decreased number of royals will enter the public space, only amongst which six out of the 14 official-duty holders will make their appearances. The King, Prince William, and Kate, never appear listed on the Royal Family calendar. Although The King cannot make it to the Maundy Service celebration to be held in Worcester Cathedral on March 28th, The Queen will attend and represent him.

The royal family is observing a break for the Easter holidays, with no engagements planned from Good Friday, March 29th, until April 5th. Kate is also set to return to royal duties after Easter.

ALSO READ| Sean Diddy Combs used affiliation with Prince Harry, other A-listers for legitimacy

Prince Harry threaded to $30 million lawsuit against Diddy

On the flip side, Prince Harrys name has surfaced in connection with a $30 million lawsuit targeting Sean Diddy Combs. The suit, initiated by Rodney Lil Rod Jones, levels serious allegations against the renowned rapper, including sexual misconduct, grooming, and involvement in sex trafficking activities. The documents assert that Diddy exploited his connections with prominent figures like Prince Harry to enhance his credibility. Its important to note that while Prince Harry is mentioned in the lawsuit, there are no accusations of misconduct directed at him.
Minister Arias-Vasquez visits Bassadone Automotive Group

The Minister for Business, the Hon Gemma Arias-Vasquez, visited the Bassadone Automotive Group yesterday at their premises in the dockyard.

The Minister was shown around the facility. It is easy to be impressed by the efficiency and scale of their operation, which has a global reach. Minister Arias-Vasquez thanked the Bassadone team for their invitation to visit their premises and for the work the Group do, not only in supporting the Gibraltar economy, but in putting Gibraltar on the international map.
Ecuador is struggling to bring spiraling violence under control, with mayors fearing for their lives and the national government recognizing an increase in extortion and kidnapping amid a 90-day state of emergency declared to tackle criminal groups. Law enforcement officials work at the scene where Ecuador's youngest mayor, Brigitte Garcia, was found shot dead in a car, according to the police, near San Vicente, Ecuador, in this handout image released on March 24, 2024. (via REUTERS)

Over the weekend the country's youngest mayor, 27-year-old Brigitte Garcia, and her head of communications were found dead of gunshot wounds, according to Ecuador's police.

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The slaying, decried as an assassination by some politicians, follows an explosion of unrest in January, when gunmen stormed a live television broadcast and scores of prison staff were taken hostage, while police officers were kidnapped.

In response, the government of President Daniel Noboa ordered widespread security force operations. Between Jan. 9 and March 10, almost 13,000 people were arrested, according to the government, 280 for alleged connections to terrorism.

Why has Ecuador's security deteriorated?

Security in Ecuador has worsened since the coronavirus pandemic, which also battered the Andean nation's economy.

Noboa's predecessor President Guillermo Lasso struggled to control violence and resorted to measures like relaxing gun controls to allow civilians to defend themselves.

The number of violent deaths rose to 7,994 in 2023, according to police, up nearly two-thirds on the 2022 figure. The violence crossed into the political arena last year when anti-corruption presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was assassinated.

Also Read | Diplomatic tensions between Ecuador and Russia over military equipment threaten banana exports

The government blames the situation on the growing reach of cocaine trafficking gangs, which have destabilized swathes of South America.

Inside Ecuador's prisons, gangs have taken advantage of the state's weak control to expand their power. Prison violence has become increasingly common, resulting in hundreds of deaths in incidents authorities have blamed on gang battles to control jails.

Currently, some 10 prisons throughout the country are under the control of security forces, which includes members of the military, Interior Minister Monica Palencia told local television on Wednesday.

Officials targeted

Garcia, who was the mayor of San Vicente, is the latest example of a local official being killed in the Andean country.

According to the Association of Ecuadorean Municipalities (AME), 22 officials - including Agustin Intriago, another mayor - have been killed since last year.

At least 45 have requested police protection and others have sought private security as a means of protecting themselves, AME executive director Homero Castanier told Reuters in an interview this week.

It is not just mayors in the crosshairs of violence.

In January, prosecutor Cesar Suarez, who focused on pursuing organized trans-national crime in Guayas province and was investigating the attack on the television station, was also killed.

Guayaquil, a coastal city that is Ecuador's largest, is considered the country's most dangerous, with its ports acting as a hub for drug smuggling.

What is the government doing to tackle the problem?

Noboa, 36, took power in November and has been touting his "Phoenix Plan" to build a new intelligence unit, supply security forces with tactical weapons, build new high-security prisons and reinforce security at ports and airports.

It will cost some $800 million, he said, though $200 million in new weapons for Ecuador's army will be provided by the United States.

The extended state of emergency - which ends on April 8 - permits military patrols, including in prisons, and establishes a national nighttime curfew.

The president also accused 22 groups of terrorism, paving the way for the military to conduct operations against armed groups.

In February, Noboa won a legislative VAT hike to fund security spending.

The country's electoral court also approved an 11-question referendum on tightening security, which will be held on April 21.

Is anything working?

According to Interior Minister Palencia, homicides have fallen by just over a quarter during Noboa's administration so far.

However, she said that extortion and kidnapping have increased, adding the government will establish a specialist police unit to tackle both crimes.
Australia and Tuvalu are pressing ahead with a landmark treaty offering the Pacific Island's citizens a climate refuge, quieting speculation about the fate of the pact. HT Image

The 11-page treaty was tabled to the Australian parliament late Tuesday offering Tuvalu residents the right to live in Australia if their homeland is lost to rising sea levels.

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The pact also commits Australia to defending Tuvalu in the face of natural disasters, health pandemics and "military aggression", but only upon their request for aid.

The treaty was initially inked in November, but Australia needed to wait for the confirmation of the incoming Tuvalu prime minister before it could proceed.

Soon after taking office in February, Tuvalu's new Prime Minister Feleti Teo told AFP he had "no intention to revoke" the deal.

But he also expressed concerns about a provision giving Australia a say in what security pacts Tuvalu can sign with other countries.

That clause was seen as a significant strategic win for Australia as it fends off China's attempts to expand its security reach in the Pacific region.

However, it was criticised by Tuvalu's government as lacking transparency and potentially threatening "the integrity of the sovereignty of Tuvalu".

Tuvalu has now approved the final wording, which is unchanged, a source with knowledge of the negotiations told AFP.

Tuvalu, which has a population of 11,000, will now undertake its domestic consultation process to ratify and implement the treaty as soon as possible.

Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy said the treaty was one of the most significant agreements and "seeks to safeguard" the island's future.

Conroy added the treaty demonstrated that Australia was a "genuine and reliable partner" for Pacific nations.

"When we say we are part of the Pacific family, this is what we mean. We share a region, an ocean, and a future," he said.

Two of Tuvalu's nine coral islands have already largely disappeared under the waves, and climate scientists fear the entire archipelago will be uninhabitable within the next 80 years.

Already, sea levels on the island are nearly 15 centimetres higher than 30 years ago, NASA data shows.

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This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
A royal source has claimed Prince Harry "will make efforts to see Princess Kate and Prince William" when he visits the UK in May after the Princess of Wales cancer diagnosis announcement. Harry will likely return to Britain in May 2024 to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. Prince Harry will "certainly make efforts" to see William and Kate when he returns to the UK in May, a royal author has said (REUTERS/Jennifer Gauthier, AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth, File)

Harry will certainly make efforts to see his brother and Kate

"Given Kates cancer diagnosis, Harry will certainly make efforts to see his brother and Kate when he returns to the UK in May, royal author Tom Quinn said. "If it happens at all its to be a very brief carefully choreographed meeting and organised to last a short time so that the brothers can avoid any difficult conversations."

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"At the same time Harry knows how it will look if he comes back to the UK and doesnt see his brother and Kate. Its going to be a very awkward time, Quinn told The Mirror.

In February this year, Harry came to the UK to visit his father, King Charles III, after his cancer diagnosis. At the time, he was blasted for not meeting William and Kate.

Harry spoke about returning to the UK during an appearance on Good Morning America (GMA). "Look, I love my family. The fact that I was able to get on a plane and go and see him [King Charles] and spend any time with him, I'm grateful for that, he said. "I have got other trips planned that would take me through the UK or back to the UK, so I will stop in and see my family as much as I can."

Harry and Meghan Markle released a statement after Kates cancer diagnosis. "We wish health and healing for Kate and the family, and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace, they said.

Chris Ship, ITVs royal editor, claimed Harry had "reached out to his brother" after the announcement. "Harry and Meghan have both been in touch with their brother/sister-in-law but did so privately, Ship said. "It is not clear if that was a phone/video call or some messages of support."
Thai advocates for LGBTQ rights hailed a major step forward Wednesday as the parliament passed a same-sex marriage bill in a landslide, paving the way for the nation to become the first in Southeast Asia to recognise marriage equality. Participants hold a rainbow flag during a Pride Parade in Bangkok.(AP)

While Thailand enjoys a welcoming reputation for the international LGBTQ community, Thai activists have struggled for decades against conservative attitudes and values.

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The bill sailed through on 399 to 10 votes in the lower house, although it must still be approved by the Senate and endorsed by the king before becoming the law of the land.

"Thailand is finally accepted and recognised as truly 'paradise for LGBTQI'," Chanya Rattanathada, 27, told AFP in the halls outside the voting chamber.

Inside, a small burst of cheers and clapping accompanied the final vote, with one representative waving a rainbow flag.

"Today, society has proved to us that they care about LGBT rights," said Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, an MP with the progressive Move Forward Party, which has long pushed for LGBTQ rights.

"Now we finally will have the same rights as others."

The proposal will change references to "men", "women", "husbands" and "wives" in the country's marriage law to gender-neutral terms.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said he was "proud of our pride" following approval of the bill.

"The passing (of this law) in the parliament today is a proud moment for Thai society who will walk together towards social equality and respect differences," he wrote on social media website X.

Across Asia only Taiwan and Nepal recognise same-sex marriage. Last year, India's highest court deferred the decision to parliament, and Hong Kong's top court stopped just short of granting full marriage rights.

Making everyone equal

"It's a huge step for our country -- it is the first in Southeast Asia," Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn, a spokesperson with activist group Fortify Rights, told AFP.

Mookdapa expressed hope that the later stages of the bill would progress smoothly, so that her country "will be on par with the international level in terms of LGBT rights".

The vote follows a decision by Srettha's cabinet last year that gave the go-ahead for the parliament debate.

The prime minister has been vocal in his support for the LGBTQ community, making the marriage equality policy a signature issue and telling reporters last year that the change would strengthen family structures.

Following the vote, Pheu Thai party spokesperson Danuphorn Punnakanta welcomed the decision of the lower house.

"Today, Thailand is one step ahead in terms of making everyone equal," he said.

Describing the law as one for "all Thai people", he emphasised that it would not violate heterosexual couples' rights -- but expand them for all relationships.

"It's only a win-win situation."

While Thailand has a reputation for tolerance, much of the Buddhist-majority country remains conservative and LGBTQ people, while highly visible, still face barriers and discrimination.

Activists have been pushing for same-sex marriage rights for more than a decade, but in a kingdom where politics is regularly upended by coups and mass street protests, the advocacy did not get far.

In 2022 Thai lawmakers gave initial approval to two bills that would allow same-sex marriages and two others that would permit civil partnerships.

But the legislation was dropped when parliament was dissolved to pave the way for a general election held last year.

Outside parliament, 18-year-old Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd told AFP there was a lot of excitement around the new law as it moved towards final approval.

But for now, they said: We are happy.
NEW YORK  One of the suspects in the fatal shooting of a New York City police officer during a traffic stop has been arrested on weapons charges, police said Wednesday. HT Image

Lindy Jones, 41, was awaiting arraignment in Queens criminal court for his suspected role in Monday's shooting of Officer Jonathan Diller, the first New York City police officer killed in the line of duty in two years.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Police said Jones was behind the wheel of an SUV that was illegally parked at a bus stop in the Far Rockaway neighborhood shortly before 6 p.m. Monday when Diller and his partner approached the vehicle.

Police officials said the man in the SUV's passenger seat refused Diller's orders to get out of the vehicle and shot Diller under his protective vest.

He was given a lawful order numerous times to step out of the car," Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a news conference after the shooting. "He refused. And when the officers took him out of the car, rather than stepping out of the car, he shot our officer.

The 31-year-old Diller, who was married and had a 1-year-old son, was rushed to a hospital but could not be saved.

Diller's partner returned fire, hitting the gunman in the back, police said. The suspected gunman remained hospitalized Wednesday and had not been formally charged.

Jones was arrested on charges of criminal possession of a gun and defacement of a gun after a second loaded firearm was found in the SUV, police said. Jones was awaiting arraignment Wednesday afternoon and the district attorney's office did not provide any information on who was representing him as an attorney.

Diller, who joined the police department three years ago, lived in Massapequa Park on Long Island with his wife, Stephanie, and their son, Ryan.

Mayor Eric Adams, a former police officer, called Diller's shooting devastating and said Tuesday, These are bad people doing bad things to good people. Its the good guys against the bad guys.

Diller's funeral Mass is planned for Saturday at St. Rose of Lima Roman Catholic Church in Massapequa.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Four people were killed and five were hurt in stabbings in northern Illinois on Wednesday, authorities said. Rockford Police Chief Carla Redd speaks with the media, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Rockford, Ill. Authorities say four people were killed and five were wounded in stabbings in northern Illinois. Redd said that a suspect is in police custody and was being questioned. She said police did not know the motive.(via AP)

A suspect is in police custody and was being questioned Wednesday afternoon, according to Rockford Police Chief Carla Redd. She said one of the people who was wounded remained in critical condition.

Rockfords population is about 150,000 and its 90 miles miles northwest of Chicago.

My heart goes out to the families right now that are suffering a loss, Redd told reporters.

She said the Rockford Police received a medical call at 1:14 p.m. followed by additional calls for police and paramedics. She said in the city, we have four individuals who are deceased. We have one thats in critical condition right now and an additional four that are in stable condition.

Redd said that not all of the victims had stab wounds. None were shot.

We have a suspect in custody who is being interviewed at this time," she said. We dont believe theres any other suspects that are on the run or at large at this particular time.

Right now, we don't have a clear motive as to what caused this individual to commit such a heinous crime, Redd added.

The suspect was arrested by a Winnebago County sheriff's deputy, said Sheriff Gary Caruana.

Also Read | Teenager arrested by Swiss police on suspicion of stabbing an Orthodox Jewish man

A resident said she witnessed the arrest on Wednesday.

All of the sudden, we heard police run up on both sides of the house screaming Stop! Get down!, Vanessa Hy told WREX-TV. Then they ran into the backyard and after a few minutes we saw them bringing the suspect down the driveway in handcuffs and he was very bloody.

It was like a movie, you know, Ive never seen anything like this, Hy added.

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara wrote on the citys Facebook page that multiple jurisdictions are working on multiple crime scenes to develop an understanding of what transpired in an effort to prevent this from happening again.

The violence Wednesday came days after a teenage employee of a Walmart in Rockford was stabbed and killed inside the store.

Today, we are shocked by another horrific act of violence against innocent members of our community, McNamara added. We can report that the suspect is in custody and the threat has been neutralized. Now that he is in custody, our primary concern is ensuring that our community members directly impacted by this violence are supported throughout their healing and recovery.

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The United States experienced a catastrophic event on Tuesday when a Singapore-flagged shipping vessel suffered a crucial power failure and slammed with the Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge, plunging into the Patapsco River. After the Indian crew's mayday signal, a dispatcher issued a warning over the radio, stating that a huge cargo ship had lost its steering capabilities and was moving toward the Francis Scott Key Bridge.(AFP)

Following the collapse, US officials initiated a search and rescue mission after eight construction workers were reported missing. The team successfully recovered two workers, but the remaining six were presumed dead, triggering the suspension of the search operation on Wednesday morning.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

While the US officials, including President Joe Biden, praised the workers involved in the search and rescue operation, Indian crew members onboard the Ship 'Dali' emerged as "heroes" after the Maryland Department of Transportation revealed that their alert assisted them in closing the bridge to traffic prior to the disastrous crash.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Biden described the Baltimore disaster as a "terrible accident," acknowledging that staff onboard the vessel notified the transportation department before losing control of the ship. He asserted the move "undoubtedly" helped them in saving countless lives.

Also Read: Baltimore bridge collapse: Who are the presumed dead people?

Here's what happened after Indian crew's mayday alarm

After the Indian crew's mayday signal, a dispatcher issued a warning over the radio, stating that a huge cargo ship had lost its steering capabilities and was moving toward the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Following this, policer officers successfully stopped automobile traffic on the bridge within around 90 seconds, AP reported.

One official claimed that he was preparing to drive onto the bridge to inform the construction workers. However, it was too late.

Also Read: Netizens find uncanny similarities between Baltimore bridge collapse and scene from Leave the World Behind

Indian crew members onboard Ship Dali hailed as heroes'

Speaking to reporters, Maryland Governor Wes Moore stated that the mayday call alerted workers to prevent the flow of vehicular traffic from coming onto the bridge.

I have to say I'm thankful for the folks who, once the warning came up and once notification came up that there was a mayday, was literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, Moore said.

These people (the Indian ship crew) are heroes. They saved lives last night, he added.

Not only did Biden and Moore commend the crew members, included two local pilots, several netizens on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, applauded them for reducing the disaster's impact.

The Indian crew on the ship probably saved lives and limited the disaster's impact because they were the ones there to take action when things went wrong. Hats off to their quick thinking and bravery in a tough situation! one X user wrote.

Meanwhile, Synergy Marine Group, the vessel management company, informed that all crew members were safe and secure.

The six workers, who were presumed dead following the tragic incident, are from Latin American countries, including Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador.
US President Joe Biden lauded the prompt action by personnel on board the cargo ship 'Dali', which struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore causing the bridge to plunge into the river below sending several people and vehicles into the water. Baltimore bridge collapse: Joe Biden has lauded the quick action by Indian crew members (Photo by Eros Hoagland / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)(Getty Images via AFP)

Shipping company Synergy Maritime Group which managed the Singapore-flagged freight ship in a statement on Tuesday said the entire 22 member crew of the vessel are Indians.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

What did president Joe Biden say?

Personnel on board the ship were able to alert the Maryland Department of Transportation that they had lost control of their vessel prompting the local authorities to close the bridge to traffic before the catastrophic was impact, a move which "undoubtedly" saved lives, President Biden on Wednesday said during his comments at the White House regarding the Baltimore bridge collapse.

Biden said that "Everything so far indicates that this was a terrible accident. At this time, we have no other indication - no other reason to believe there was any intentional act here."

Six people who were missing after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed have been presumed dead, said The Maryland state police.

"Officials at the scene estimate eight people were unaccounted for still -- not still, were unaccounted for. That number might change. Two have been rescued -- one without injury, one in critical condition. And the search-and-rescue operation is continuing for all those remaining as we speak," the US President said.

Biden also noted that the Port of Baltimore is one of the nation's largest shipping hubs. "It handled a record amount of cargo last year. It's also the top port in America for both imports and exports of automobiles and light trucks. Around 850,000 vehicles go through that port every single year, and we're going to get it up and running again as soon as possible."

Two Guatemalan construction workers are among the missing individuals following the bridge collapse in Baltimore, CNN reported, citing, a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued late Tuesday. The missing workers have been identified as a 26-year-old from San Luis, Peten, and a 35-year-old from Camotan, Chiquimula, the statement confirmed.

Both individuals were reportedly part of a team tasked with repairing the asphalt on the bridge at the time of the accident.

Although the statement did not disclose the names of the missing workers, it mentioned that the consul general of Guatemala in Maryland has reached out to the families of those affected, aiming to provide support to the brothers of the missing individuals.

Furthermore, the consulate has affirmed its ongoing communication with local authorities in Maryland, reiterating that two of the missing individuals were of Guatemalan descent, CNN reported. (ANI)
US federal safety investigators recovered the data recorder, also known as black box, from the cargo ship that crashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing its collapse into Patapsco River on Tuesday. The US Coast Guard Cutter Frank Drew (R) patrols near the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge after it was struck by the container ship Dali in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 27, 2024. (AFP)

This development comes as a team from the National Transportation Safety Board boarded the ship to collect the evidence for their inquiry.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Speaking to CNN, agency Chair Jennifer Homendy, stated that investigators have acquired the ship's black box and it will assist the team in developing a timeline of events that led to the tragedy.

The investigators will look into whether tainted fuel had played any role in the mishap, said sources familiar with the ongoing probe.

Homendy informed that the data recorder has been sent back to a lab for examination, and added that she hopes to have that information to share with the public later today.

On the basis of a preliminary probe, the FBI ruled out any connection between the collision and terrorism.

Meanwhile, all 22-Indian crew members of the vessel, including two local pilots, could be trapped on board for next two weeks as a portion of the Key Bridge crashed onto the ship's back, reported Daily Mail.

Also Read: Baltimore bridge collapse: How Indian crew's mayday warning saved US from major disaster

Ship's weight led to the catastrophic result, says Buttigieg

While authorities investigate claims of the ship losing power before the collision, US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg blamed the "almost-instant catastrophic result" on the ship's weight and the load it was carrying.

Stressing on the need to prepare for a better future to mitigate any kind of threat, he told Good Morning America that "what we saw yesterday was just unimaginable in terms of the proportion of that ship.

Also Read: Horrific moment Baltimore bridge collapses after struck by cargo ship. Watch

US authorities release first responders audio

Meanwhile, the Maryland Transportation Authority released dispatch recordings of authorities attempting to halt traffic over the Key Bridge after the pilot of the Dali Ship gave a mayday alert that the vessel was heading toward the bridge.

In the audio, the first responder can be heard on the tape suggesting that traffic had to be halted until the pilot regained command of the ship and asking whether there was anyone working on the bridge. As per officials, there were eight construction workers on the bridge at the time of mishap. While two have been rescued, the rescue operation has been re-launched to find six others who are still missing and are presumed dead.

If we can stop traffic, just make sure no ones on the bridge. Right now, Im not sure where theres a crew up there. You might want to notify whoever the foreman is to see if we can get them off the bridge temporarily, one official can be heard saying.

But a few seconds later, an official declared that the bridge had collapsed.
Early Tuesday morning, Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge was struck by a cargo ship that had lost power, leading to a devastating accident that has left six individuals unaccounted for. Aerial view of the Dali cargo vessel which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., March 26, 2024. Maryland National Guard/Handout via REUTERS.(via REUTERS)

This group of labourers, who have been deployed by authorities on the mission of reviving roads after potholes, are proclaimed dead as officials from the government and medical bodies make the statement.

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On Tuesday, David T. Efron, spokesperson of R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, in the health system of the University of Maryland, was the one to brief the media. He went through the elements that brought about the assumption of the death of the lost crew members, providing the span of the bridge and the frigid temperatures of the water, as well.

ALSO READ| Baltimore bridge collapse: Search operation suspended, 6 presumed dead after cargo ship crash | 10 updates

Efron stated, It doesnt take very long for someone to feel the effects of [the waters] temperature, underscoring the perilous conditions the crew faced.

Who are the victims of Baltimore bridge collapse? Here's what we know so far

At the time of writing this article, limited information has surfaced regarding the survivors and victims. Jesus Campos, a fellow construction worker, shared with the Baltimore Banner his connection to the missing crew, revealing that they hailed from Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Mexico.

On a Tues afternoon the piercing news came alive on CNN from a council member of Baltimore City named Phylicia Porter to the effect that a body had been found. However, the Coast Guard notes that there is no official confirmation of this creation since they are spearheading the search operations.

In addition, these efforts enabled the recovery of two injured individuals, one becoming a patient at the Cowley Shock Trauma Center and being subsequently discharged.

The event occurred when the 6 individuals were busy with the masonry and pothole repairs of the bridge under construction. The freighter (985 feet long) came into a collision with the bridge (the Patapsco River bridge is highest point 185 feet above the Patapsco River), which is 185 feet above the Patapsco River at its highest point. The list of presumed deaths includes a 15 year veteran of the construction company, Miguel Luna, and two relatively young men from Guatemala who worked for a company for 15 years as reported by their foreign ministry.

ALSO READ| Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge was named after lawyer who wrote US national anthem | 5 points

Gustavo Torres, the executive director of CASA, an organization serving the Latino and immigrant community, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Luna, a longtime member of our CASA family, adding an even deeper layer of sorrow to this already grievous situation.

Maryland is currently under a state of emergency, as declared by Governor Wes Moore. Moore has also communicated the states close collaboration with US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who is actively involved in the ongoing investigation of this tragic event.
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Boxer Ryan Garcia, who is known for his contentious social media posts and shocking interviews, recently made headlines when an old deleted tweet purportedly of his went viral on X. Reacting to video stating that Ryan predicted the catastrophe, the boxer said it is not him, adding that who knows but God, the Holy Spirit speaking thru me.(AP)

On Tuesday, the United States saw a catastrophic event when a huge cargo ship collided with Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, leading to the collapse of the entire bridge into the Patapsco River.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Following the mishap, eight construction workers were reported missing but two of them were rescued following an intense search and rescue operation. The authorities are now looking for six others who are presumed dead.

Meanwhile, a video, claiming that Garcia predicted the Baltimore tragedy before it even happened, went viral on TikTok as well as X.

The video displayed a now-deleted tweet from the boxer, stating, "Something bad is going to happen in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26th, 2024."

While the video has received millions of views, it is yet to be confirmed if the viral tweet is fake or real.

Several X users raised a question about the authenticity of the tweet, with one saying this "can't be real".

He didnt tweet about Baltimore. He tweeted about a big earthquake happening in June though, another user commented.

Also Read: All-Indian crew on container ship that collided with Baltimore bridge

Ryan Garcia offers condolences to the victims of Baltimore tragedy

Taking to X on Tuesday, the 25-year-old boxer sent condolences to the people affected by this mishap.

He further asked if the crew on the ship alerted the authorities in order to avert the tragedy.

Stating that the bridge collapsed fairly fast, he said: My heart goes out to the people who are injured and affected by this tragedy.

Also Read: Baltimore bridge collapse: Who are the presumed dead people?

Ryan Garcia reacts to rumours about Baltimore bridge collapse prediction

Reacting to video stating that Ryan predicted the catastrophe, the boxer said it is not him, adding that who knows but God, the Holy Spirit speaking thru me.

He went on to claim that half of his tweets had been removed and that he typically forgets what he says.

Garcia has not confirmed if he made the viral tweet or it is fan edit.

When one X user asked him, You really think that you are some sort of chosen one? He responded, saying: I dont determine that only God, I just pray I do things according to his will.

Meanwhile, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg vowed repercussions for anyone who found responsible for the Baltimore bridge collapse.
US President Joe Biden yesterday was counter-facted by netizens following his claim that he has travelled across Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge many, many times  either on a train or by car. Netizens counter Joe Biden's claims on Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz(REUTERS)

In his initial comments on the collapse, Biden stated, At about 1:30 [a.m.], a container ship struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which Ive been over many, many times commuting from the state of Delaware either on a train or by car. He further noted his familiarity with Baltimore Harbor and the unfortunate incident that led to the bridges collapse, resulting in vehicles and individuals plunging into the Patapsco River.

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Unsurprisingly, the crux of the narrative gained new momentum as the President declared that he had travelled over one million miles aboard Amtrak during his long political odyssey, as critics accused him of unnecessarily attributing himself to the narrative of the tragedy.

ALSO READ| Baltimore bridge collapse: Who are the presumed dead people?

Netizens fact-checking Biden

Social screens blew with varying responses, anywhere from cynicism to concerns about his misinformation.

One user expressed his frustration on X (formerly Twitter), saying, Joe Biden says he's commuted over the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore many times via train. The problem is that the bridge features no train tracks

Radio talk show host Alan Sanders and others echoed this sentiment, questioning the existence of the train tracks Biden referenced. Many users piped in with comments like Bidens train is OFF THE TRACKS and Just another example of his mental derailment pointing towards the President's mental stability.

"So Joe Biden, once again confused, asserts that he has traveled over the Francis Scott Key Bridge by train "many times," despite the fact that there are NO train tracks on that bridge......." one user posted.

In defense, White House spokesperson Robyn Patterson clarified, The President was clearly describing driving over the bridge while commuting between Delaware and D.C. during his 36-year Senate career.

ALSO READ| Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge was named after lawyer who wrote US national anthem | 5 points

Biden has previously made inaccurate statements regarding his presence at significant national events. These include claims of being at Ground Zero following the September 11 attacks and witnessing a bridge collapse in Pittsburgh, both of which were later corrected.
President Joe Biden is considering handing out green cards to up to 4,000 undocumented immigrants facing deportation. There are some conditions  they must have resided in the United States for at least a decade, and have not been convicted of serious crimes. Joe Biden could provide green cards to 4,000 undocumented immigrants every year (Photo by Eros Hoagland / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)(Getty Images via AFP)

According to the Daily Mail, a proposal floated by the Justice Departments Executive Office for Immigration Review in September last year sought to make thousands of migrants lawful permanent residents. Migrants who wish to qualify must also have good moral character. They will qualify only if the case is such that they would suffer exceptional and extremely unusual hardship if deported.

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You will have to wait your turn before an immigration judge can approve your application, the proposal document reads. This may take years.

After becoming president, Biden took various executive actions in an attempt to reverse Donald Trumps immigration policies. These included the Remain in Mexico program.

Several migrants cross the border into the US illegally

A record number of migrants cross the border into the US illegally every year. In fiscal years 2022 and 2023, as many as 270 with their names on US terror watchlists were apprehended by border authorities. So far in fiscal year 2024, 50 have been encountered.

Because of Bidens expansion of humanitarian parole, over 320,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela have been flown into the US, or have directly entered. Last month, Biden came under fire after a Venezuelan national murdered Georgia nursing student Laken Riley. Jose Antonio Ibarra had entered the US illegally back in 2022.

During his State of the Union address, Biden apologised for referring to Ibarra as an illegal. On the other hand, he got Rileys name wrong, calling her Lincoln Riley, but later failed to apologise for the mistake. Many accused him of apologising to the killer.

How this could affect the Indian community

Indians have long protested Biden's immigration policies. While various professionals face a minimum wait of 500 days for visa approval, some simply use the open border illegally. Illegal immigration is favoured, whereas people pursuing legal avenues are at a disadvantage.

Indians happen to be the third-largest group of undocumented immigrants in the US. Since 2011, the number has been surging by 70%. Varun Singh, MD-XIPHIAS Immigration, told HindustanTimes.com while addressing the backlog, Crucial for skilled Indian professionals aiming to work in the United States, is currently facing significant challenges due to extensive backlogs.

Vivek Wadhwa, an Indian-American author and motivational speaker, previously wrote on X, This is the ridiculous state of US immigration: break the law and get rewarded for it. Highly skilled engineers and scientists can't even get tourist visas while anyone can catch a flight to Mexico and walk across the border. No background checks, no visa processing delays.

Sharing his post, another X user wrote, Highskilled immigrants pay thousands of dollars as tuition fees to get educated in US universities and then get stuck in greencard backlog n face visa renewal issues whereas illegal immigrants break the law and easily get benefits.. then why would people come legally to the US???
Karine Jean-Pierre, the press secretary for the White House, abruptly ended an interview when the host asked incredibly offensive question about US President Joe Biden's mental health. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks during a press briefing at the White House. (AP)

The incident occurred during a telephone interview on Tuesday, which was directed at informing people of North Carolina about President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris' planned visit to showcase the administration's efforts to expand the Affordable Care Act.

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During the interview with North Carolina radio station 99.3 WBT Charlotte, host Mark Garrison broached the sensitive topic, asking, "Does the president have dementia?" Jean-Pierre swiftly responded, calling the question incredibly offensive. You are taking us down this rabbit hole... If you really pay attention to his record and what hes done, you will see exactly how focused hes been on the American people. How historic his actions have been.

Also Read: Disgusting: WH official sparks outrage after saying US soldiers died 'fighting' for Biden admin

Jean-Pierre further addressed concerns about rising prices for groceries and gas, attributing the economic challenges to the previous administration while emphasising President Biden's understanding of the struggles faced by middle-class and working-class families. She highlighted the president's actions in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which impacted gas prices, and claimed improvements in essential grocery costs under Biden's administration.

Also Read: Biden doing everything to improve the H1B visa process, says White House

Host expresses disappointment: I was supposed to get more time

The interview ended abruptly, with Jean-Pierre thanking the host before hanging up, which astonished the radio broadcasters. Mark Garrison, the news director, expressed disappointment that he was unable to ask all of his questions.

Garrison was told that he would be issued a press corps ID so that he could ask questions directly at the White House.

"I am nominating you to get a press corps badge, and you need to go to the White House," remarked one of the hosts, emphasising the importance of the questions posed during the interview. Garrison expressed surprise at the sudden termination of the call, stating, "I was supposed to get more time with her, and the fact that all of a sudden she decided to just hang up the phone took me by surprise," lamenting the missed opportunity to ask additional questions.
NBC News has severed ties with Ronna McDaniel, the former chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, just four days after her controversial appointment as a political commentator. Former NBC News Meet the Press moderator Chuck Todd criticized his network Sunday, March 24, 2024, for hiring former Republican National Committee head McDaniel as a paid contributor, saying on the air that many NBC journalists are uncomfortable with the decision. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File)(AP)

It followed upon the heels of a hailstorm of protestations from the companys own tier-1 anchors and even a wider proportion of the viewership, in which notably the viewers of MSNBC participated.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Last Friday, soon upon the release of the press announcing McDaniels hiring, the NBC reporters and social media audience were left visibly disappointed. The criticism was raised to the highest point in MSNBCs audience and mostly focused on MSNCiels place in the Republican Party right through the Trump administration and her cooperation in his baseless claim that the 2020 election was rigged.

ALSO READ| Did Joe Biden take train over collapsed Baltimore bridge? Netizens fact-check the president

Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor: NBC boss

Cesar Conde, the chairman of the NBCUniversal News Group, addressed the issue in a staff memo on Tuesday, stating, After listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor, and emphasized, No organization, particularly a newsroom, can succeed unless it is cohesive and aligned. Over the last few days, it has become clear that this appointment undermines that goal.

The flashpoint on the NBC news division regarding McDaniel created a very hard nut to crack for Conde; she has led it since 2020. Originally, McDaniel's recruitment had been endorsed by both candidate and staff, as part of a plan to showcase the public the many political perspectives during the election season. There are many of such cases: for example, Katie Goodman from CNN. Also, Reince Priebus, Trumps former chief of staff, was currently hired as a commentator by ABC News.

On the contrary that matter triggered the confrontation, when some of the most respected key anchors at NBC severely protested their hiring of McDaniel. They said it was a disqualifying factor for her because she was associated with Trumps efforts to contest the 2020 election outcome. The truth is that elections in the United States are not usually as volatile as they are in other nations.

Rachel Maddow, host of MSNBCs highest-rated show, dedicated a major portion of her program on Monday night to discuss McDaniels hiring. In a 29-minute segment, Maddow described the decision as inexplicable and likened McDaniel to historical figures known for authoritarian ambitions. Maddow urged the network executives to reconsider, saying, Take a minute, acknowledge that maybe it wasnt the right call.

ALSO READ| Baltimore bridge collapse: Who are the presumed dead people?

Maddows sentiments were echoed by fellow MSNBC hosts Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski, and Nicolle Wallace, who collectively voiced their disapproval. Wallace, a former Republican and staunch defender of George W. Bush, criticized NBC for allowing election deniers to disseminate misinformation on what she referred to as our sacred airwaves.
A huge cargo ship collided with Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, March 26. As a result, the massive 1.6-mile structure crumbled into the river. A Coast Guard official has said that six people are presumed dead. Netizens have found uncanny similarities between the Baltimore bridge collapse and a scene from Leave the World Behind (AP/PTI)(AP)

As search operations are on, X users have noted the uncanny resemblance the incident has to a 2023 Netflix film called Leave the World Behind, where a cyberattack causes a massive container ship to lose power & crash. A user wrote on X, With the horrific collapse of the #KeyBridge in #Baltimore earlier, I couldn't help but be reminded of this scene from the film "Leave The World Behind", produced by the Obamas. A massive oil tanker runs ashore after a cyber attack shuts down navigation systems. Anyone else?

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Another wrote, For those of you that don't know.... The Francis Scott Key bridge is the same bridge event that took place in the Netflix movie "Leave the World Behind". The production company is owned by the Obamas.

One user shared a conspiracy theory, saying, Oh my God. This cant be coincidence. The Ship that crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore was headed to Sri Lanka. The flag of Sri Lanka is a Lion. The Ship in the opening scene of Barrack Obamas Leave the World Behind is named WHITE LION.

Can we please all watch the movie Leave the World Behind and compare notes to now? Like wtf, one user exclaimed.

What is the film about?

The American apocalyptic psychological thriller film was written and directed by Sam Esmail. It was executive-produced by Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama through their Higher Ground Productions banner.

A summary of Leave the World Behind, penned by Nick Riganas and shared on IMDb, reads, Bearing grim news of an unknown enemy and the shocking certainty that the city succumbs to chaos, a sharp-dressed stranger and his young companion disrupt Amanda and Clay's much-needed family vacation. But the information the unwanted couple brings is inconceivable. Now, a complex, multilevel mystery unfolds before everyone's eyes, whether they like it or not. After all, the unsuspecting tourists have already encountered a series of mysterious, logic-defying incidents during their brief stay.

It adds, As a result, vague disbelief and a palpable sense of threat ratchet up the tension, rendering modern technology unreliable. And the question remains. In a rapidly disintegrating world where nothing makes sense, what can you do to protect your own and what used to be your cherished ordinary life?

The victims of the Baltimore bridge collapse include Mexican and Guatemalan nationals. The six of them are construction workers who were busy filling potholes on the surface of the bridge when the tragedy took place.

Search divers are set to return to the waters on Wednesday, March 27, to look for remains of the six workers who are now presumed to have died. According to Maryland state police and the US Coast Guard officials, search efforts could not be continued overnight as diminished visibility and dangerous currents in the channel made it risky.
Soon after NBC announced the dismissal of former Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel, former US President Donald Trump mocked her as she was shown the door less than a week after joining. Donald Trump reacted to former RNC chair Ronna McDaniel's NBC ouster.(AP)

Her contract was terminated following an uproar on NBC, with many employees questioning the firm's decision to hire a Republican. The critics of McDaniel pointed out her role in Trump's attempt to nullify the 2020 election.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

She resigned as chairman of the RNC earlier this year after facing pressure from Trump and his allies.

Taking to Truth Social, Trump on Tuesday wrote: Wow! Ronna McDaniel got fired by Fake News NBC. She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear.

Stressing that her ouster has left her in a very strange place, Trump targeted her saying, "Its called NEVER NEVERLAND and its not a place you want to be.

Trump has frequently assailed NBC News and even threatened to conduct a 'treason' inquiry if reelected to the White House.

On Truth Social, he described NBC's top executives as "weak," adding that they were "broken and embarrassed by low ratings." He concluded his post by emphasising the importance of restoring a " free and fair press."

Also Read: Donald Trump's Truth Social takes Wall Street by storm, hits $8 billion valuation as it goes public

Did Ronna McDaniel react to her NBC ouster?

According to the media outlet, NBCUniversal News Group head Cesar Conde addressed the "legitimate concerns" of his company's employees. He stated that McDaniel's appointment "undermines the goal of being cohesive and aligned."

Conde further accepted full responsibility of her hiring and even apologised to the staff members "who felt we let them down".

Also Read: 'Make America Pray Again', Trump is selling bibles, calls it his favourite book

On Sunday, McDaniel appeared on NBC's flagship Meet the Press show and stated that Joe Biden had won the presidential election in 2020 "fair and square".

She, however, added that it was "fair to say" there were issues in the battleground states during the 2020 elections. She even endorsed Trump's election fraud lie, which ultimately led to Capitol riots.

McDaniel is yet to comment on her ouster.
A few days after the Prince of Wales revealed her cancer diagnosis, Queen Camilla provided a hopeful update on Kate Middleton's health during her Wednesday visit to Shrewsbury. Queen Consort Camilla told crowd in Shrewsbury that "I know that Catherine is thrilled by all the kind wishes and support."(AFP File)

The Queen gave the update on her visit to a farmers' market, where she was met by a huge crowd. She saw two young girls who were holding handmade posters for the princess. When one of them asked the Queen of Consort whether she would hand over them to Kate, she responded, stating I shall send this off to Catherine, Sky News reported.

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I will make sure she knows it's from you. Thank you so very much, the Queen told the second girl.

She then informed those in attendance, "I know that Catherine is thrilled by all the kind wishes and support."

Kate has been showered with well-wishes since she made her cancer diagnosis public. She was subjected to debate and discussions after she remained absent from the public eye following abdominal surgery in January.

Also Read: Who is behind Kate Middleton's conspiracy theories and what is their intention?

Kate met King Charles before sharing cancer diagnosis news

King Charles met with his "beloved daughter-in-law, Kate, before she made the news of her cancer public. Kate arranged the meeting in London and they both had a major heart-to-heart and an "emotional" private lunch, according to the Mirror.

As the royal duo shares a strong bond and King considers Kate as her own daughter, he left the lunch feeling very emotional, sources said.

Meanwhile, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex issued a statement following Kate's diagnosis, wishing her "health and healing" and expressing hope that they will be able to do so privately and in peace.

Also Read: Heres why Kate and Prince William chose not to tell Harry and Meghan about cancer- Expert

Prince William and Kate have taken some time off from royal responsibilities as their family is reportedly facing an internal turmoil following her cancer diagnosis.

They pair wants to spend most of their time with three kids -- Louis, George and Charlotte. Prince William is expected to resume his royal duties after the Easter holiday.
NEW ORLEANS  Texas plans to arrest migrants suspected of illegally entering the U.S. will remain on hold under a federal appeals court order that likely prevents enforcement of Republican Gov. Greg Abbotts new immigration law until a broader decision on whether it is legal. HT Image

The 2-1 ruling late Tuesday is the second time a three-judge panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has put a temporary hold on the the Texas law. It follows a confusing few hours last week the Supreme Court allowed the law to take effect, setting off anger and anticipation along the U.S.-Mexico border.

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The same panel of appeals judges will hear arguments on the law next week.

I think what we can draw from this, from the chaos that this has been are several conclusions, said Lisa Graybill, vice president of law and policy at the National Immigration Law Center. One is that this is clearly a controversial law. Two is that the politics of the justices on the bench are very clearly playing out in their rulings.

Texas authorities announced no arrests made under the law during that short window on March 19 before the appellate panel stepped in and blocked it.

In Tuesday's order, Chief Judge Priscilla Richman cited a 2012 Supreme Court decision that struck down portions of a strict Arizona immigration law, including arrest power. The Texas law is considered by opponents to be the most dramatic attempt by a state to police immigration since that Arizona law.

For nearly 150 years, the Supreme Court has held that the power to control immigration  the entry, admission, and removal of noncitizens  is exclusively a federal power, wrote Richman, an appointee of Republican President George W. Bush.

The Justice Department has argued that Texas law is a clear violation of federal authority and would create chaos at the border. Texas has argued that President Joe Bidens administration isnt doing enough to control the border and that the state has a right to take action.

The Texas law, Richman wrote, "creates separate, distinct state criminal offenses and related procedures regarding unauthorized entry of noncitizens into Texas from outside the country and their removal.

She was joined in the opinion by Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez, a Biden appointee.

Judge Andrew Oldham, an appointee of former President Donald Trump and a former aide to Abbott, dissented from the majority decision.

Oldham wrote that the Biden administration faced a high bar to take sovereign power that Texas has to enforce a law its people and leaders want.

In our federal system, the State of Texas is supposed to retain at least some of its sovereignty," Oldham wrote. "Its people are supposed to be able to use that sovereignty to elect representatives and send them to Austin to debate and enact laws that respond to the exigencies that Texans experience and that Texans want addressed.

The law was in effect for several hours on March 19 after the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way. But the high court didnt rule on the merits of the case. It instead sent the case back to the 5th Circuit, which suspended enforcement while it considered the latest appeal.

The latest ruling keeps the block in place.

Phone messages were left Wednesday seeking comment from spokespersons for Abbott and state Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The law signed by Abbott allows any Texas law enforcement officer to arrest people suspected of entering the country illegally. Once in custody, migrants could either agree to a Texas judges order to leave the U.S. or be prosecuted on misdemeanor charges of illegal entry. Migrants who dont leave could face arrest again under more serious felony charges.

Authorities have offered various explanations for how they might enforce the law. Mexico has said it would refuse to take back anyone who is ordered by Texas to cross the border.

The brief window while the law was in effect revealed that many sheriffs were unprepared, unable or uninterested in enforcing it.

Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland of Terrell County, which touches more than 50 miles of border, told The Associated Press last week said theres no practical way for him to enforce the law. Cleveland said he has no way to transport people, the county jail has space for just seven people and the closest port of entry is a drive of more than 2 1/2 hours away.

Smith County Sheriff Larry Smith, president of the Texas Sheriffs Association, said the law will have little effect in his jurisdiction in East Texas, which is closer to Louisiana and Oklahoma than Mexico which is nearly 400 miles away.

Critics have said the Texas law could lead to civil rights violations and racial profiling.

Supporters have rejected those concerns, saying arresting officers must have probable cause, which could include witnessing the illegal entry or seeing it on video. They also say that they expect the law would be used mostly in border counties, though it would apply statewide.

Associated Press writers Ken Miller in Oklahoma City, Acacia Coronado in Austin, Texas, and Elliot Spagat in San Diego contributed to this report.

This story has been corrected to reflect that Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland spoke to the and did not attend the gathering at the Capitol.

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WALTHAM, Mass.  A pickup truck driver accused of crashing into and killing a police officer and a utility employee at a work site in a Boston suburb, then pulling a knife on another officer before stealing his cruiser, has been indicted on two counts of second degree murder and other charges, prosecutors and police said Wednesday. HT Image

Peter Simon, 54, of Woodsville, New Hampshire, also faces charges of motor vehicle homicide, armed robbery, armed carjacking, failing to stop for police, leaving the scene of a crash causing death, and other charges stemming from the Dec. 6 crashes in Waltham, the Middlesex District Attorney's office and police said. He will be arraigned at a later date and is being held without bail.

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Waltham Police Officer Paul Tracey, 58, and a National Grid utility worker, Roderick Jackson, 36, of Cambridge, were killed in the incident.

Simon's attorney, Lynda Dantas, said by email Wednesday afternoon that she had not seen the indictments and could not comment.

Simon was driving when he pulled to the side of a road to attempt a U-turn, then turned back into the road, hitting a vehicle, prosecutors and police said. He continued driving and hit Tracey and Jackson at a utility work site, a trench that was marked by orange cones and signs and yellow flashing lights, prosecutors said. Tracey was working a police detail at the work site.

The pickup truck also struck a National Grid truck before striking multiple other vehicles, prosecutors said. Simon then abandoned his truck, fled on food and pulled a knife on another police officer and stole his cruiser and fled, officials said. He crashed the cruiser and was arrested.

Waltham is about 10 miles west of Boston.

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In a recent segment of The Tucker Carlson Encounter, the former Fox News host asked Tulsi Gabbard, ex-Democratic presidential candidate and Hawaii Representative, about the current state of leadership in the United States government. FILE - Tucker Carlson, host of "Tucker Carlson Tonight," poses for photos in a Fox News Channel studio on March 2, 2017, in New York. Fox News sent Carlson a cease-and-desist letter over his new Twitter series, Axios reported Monday, June 12, 2023, amid reports of contract battles between the conservative network and its former prime-time host. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)(AP)

Talking about President Joe Biden, Carlson queried, Who is running the government at this point? Its obviously not Joe Biden. You think Hillary Clinton?

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Gabbard weighed in, saying, "Its not a leap of imagination to know that thats true. Her comment fuelled additional discussion and raised eyebrows regarding the dynamics of power within the Biden administration.

Also Read: Donald Trump raises over $20 million in February with $42 million cash in total, lags far behind Joe Biden's haul

Are Barack Obama and Hilary Clinton influencing the Biden-led government?

Suggesting that even though Barack Obama and Hilary Clinton are no longer in the government, she asserted they still have a lot of influence on the decisions that are being made. The former Democratic leader further pointed out that those who are working in the Bidens administration, are the same people who were the right hands for the Obama administration and for Hillary Clinton.

To clear her point, Gabbard recalled when Clinton's previous statement, when she said, Oh yeah, I talk to the White House every day.

It is no shocker or surprise who the influences are behind the policies that are coming out of this White House that many people say is the most radical and woke White House that our country has ever seen," she added.



Also Read: Donald Trump mocked over 'God Bless the USA Bible' venture; He's never prayed in his life

Netizens react to the Carlson-Gabbard exchange

The exchange between Carlson and Gabbard has prompted widespread speculation and debate about the extent of President Biden's influence and decision-making capacity. Critics have seized upon this dialogue to question the transparency and accountability of the current administration, while supporters maintain confidence in Biden's leadership.

Reacting to Gabbard's statement, one X user wrote on X that it is not hard to believe at all.

It's not a leap of imagination to think that Tulsi and Tucker are doing Putin's bidding. #VoteBlue2024, another user added.

Tulsi Gabbard, an earlier rising star in the Democratic Party, is now a possible vice presidential candidate on Donald Trump's shortlist.
A memorial candlelight vigil has been arranged to honour the memory of murdered NYPD officer Jonathan Diller. He was performing a routine traffic stop in Far Rockaway when he was shot dead after a confrontation ensued involving an illegally-parked vehicle. Who was Jonathan Diller? A candlelight vigil is set to be held for the NYPD cop who was shot dead during a Queens traffic stop (New York City Police Department via AP)

Diller, a married father of a boy, 1, was shot in the stomach during the argument in Queens. The incident took place after police tried to remove 34-year-old Guy Rivera, the suspect, from the passenger seat of the car near 19-19 Mott Ave.

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Witness Deon Peters said that the suspect opened fire, following which Diller fell to the ground and yelled that he had been hit. He was moving, he was saying, Im hit, Im hit! Giving location and all that, Peters said, according to New York Post. Like he was crying, like he was really crying.

Diller was pronounced dead after being taken to Jamaica Hospital. NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban wrote on X, Tonight this city lost a hero, a wife lost her husband, and a young child lost their father. We struggle to find the words to express the tragedy of losing one of our own. The work that Police Officer Jonathan Diller did each day to make this city a safer place will NEVER be forgotten. Our prayers are with his family, loved ones, and brothers and sisters in blue.

NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said that even after being shot, Diller, a resident of Long Island, took the gun away from Rivera when it fell to the ground. Rivera, too, was struck in the back after Dillers partner returned gunfire. The suspect has as many as 21 previous arrests. He was taken to Jamaica Hospital, and was said to be in stable condition. The driver of Riveras car, Lindy Jones, also has a criminal background.

During a press conference at Jamaica Hospital, Mayor Eric Adams said, We lost Jonathan tonight. I cant not say it any clearer: It is the good guys against the bad guys and these bad guys are violent. He referred to the shooting as a senseless act of violence.

Who was Jonathan Diller?

A member of patrol borough Queens souths community response team, Diller has been described by PBA president Patrick Hendry as a hero police officer. Our hero police officer confronted this dangerous individual knowing that he was putting himself at risk, knowing that he had a family waiting for him at home, Hendry said. But he did it to protect the people of this city and we need every single New Yorker to be with this family.

These attacks on New York City police officers have to end right now, he added. We have a family upstairs right now thats devastated. We have police officers in this hallway who have lost a brother. It has to end now.

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino, County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Massapequa Park Village Mayor Daniel Pearl will host the upcoming memorial candlelight vigil on March 27 at 7 pm at Brady Park in Massapequa Park. The Oyster Bay Town website says, Officials have also directed all flags be flown half-staff at County, Town and Village facilities.

Our hearts are heavy as we honor the memory of Officer Jonathan Diller, a true hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community and public safety, said Supervisor Saladino, as per the website. His bravery and selflessness made him a model officer to his brothers and sisters in law enforcement, who risk their lives each and every day to protect ours. In gathering as a community to join together in mourning, we pay tribute to Officer Dillers courage and honor his memory. On behalf of my colleagues on the Town Board, I extend by deepest sympathies to Officer Dillers family, friends and colleagues. His legacy of service will always be remembered.
An illegal immigrant from Mexico allegedly murdered a Michigan woman, 25, during a carjacking attempt. Brandon Ortiz-Vite, 25, an illegal immigrant from Puebla, Mexico, is now waiting for arraignment on an open murder charge. Who was Ruby Garcia? A Michigan woman was killed by an illegal immigrant during a drunken carjacking attempt (GoFundMe)

The victim, Ruby Garcia of Grand Rapids, was reportedly discovered dead with gunshot wounds. Her body was found on the southbound lanes of US-131 about 11:40 pm last week, according to Fox 17. The connection between the suspect and the victim remains unclear.

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He is currently in custody thats all we know as of right now and he is/was here illegally, said Garcias sister, Mavi Garcia.

Brandon Ortiz-Vite (Kent County)

Ortiz-Vite will likely be arraigned on charges of homicide/open murder, carjacking, felony firearm, illegally carrying a concealed weapon, operating while intoxicated, and driving on a suspended or revoked licence.

Who was Ruby Garcia?

Mavi remembered Garcia as a great person all around. She would brighten up the room with her beautiful smile and laugh, she told The Midwesterner. She loved to travel, was dedicated to her work and enjoyed being with her family on her free time.

According to Fox 17, Garcia liked plants. She worked at a local greenhouse. She was a great daughter, sister, aunt and friend, Mavi said. She will be remembered as being full of life and laughter, those who were around her would know she was silly and made everyone laugh.

Her loss has impacted the lives of many people. Her life was taken too soon. She deserved to live life, travel the world, have kids and follow her dreams, Mavi added.

Mavi has launched a GoFundMe for her sister. The page reads, As you all know, our precious sister was taken from us on the night of 3/22/24. Due to the sudden loss, we have unexpected finances so we would like to open this account and ask for any donations to help give her the services she deserves. Anything helps, and we appreciate the help. Thank you to everyone that has supported us through these tough times, we appreciate all the love.
The United States on Wednesday announced sanctions on six individuals and two entities based in Russia, China and the United Arab Emirates, accusing them of channeling funds to North Korea's weapons programs. The statement said both firms were subordinate to Chinyong Information Technology Cooperation Co, an entity associated with North Korea's armed forces. (File)(Reuters)

A U.S. Treasury Department statement said the action was taken in coordination with South Korea.

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It named the six individuals as Yu Pu Ung, Ri Tong Hyok, Han Chol Man, O In Chun, Jong Song Ho and Jon Yon Gun.

The entities to be hit with sanctions were Alis LLC, based in Vladivostok, Russia, and UAE-based Pioneer Bencont Star Real Estate.

The statement said both firms were subordinate to Chinyong Information Technology Cooperation Co, an entity associated with North Korea's armed forces.

The Treasury Department said Chinyong, which was placed under U.S. sanctions in May 2023, uses a network of companies and representatives to manage delegations of North Korean IT workers operating in Russia and Laos.

The announcement came after the United States and South Korea this week launched a new task force aimed at preventing North Korea from procuring illicit oil, as a deadlock at the United Nations Security Council casts doubts over the future of international sanctions on Pyongyang.

Years of U.S.-led international sanctions have failed to halt North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile programs, and many North Korea watchers and sanctions experts consider the U.N. regime moribund, if not already dead.
Tuesday's devastating collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge is likely to disrupt America's vital auto industry -- just months after the city's port set a new record for handling cars and light trucks.

Nearly 850,000 vehicles passed through the Port of Baltimore in 2023, marking the 13th consecutive year it led the nation in automotive imports and exports, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said in a statement last month.

Baltimore also ranked first for handling roll-on/roll-off heavy farm and construction machinery, imported sugar and imported gypsum, a mineral that's used to make wallboard, plaster and cement.

The port was closed indefinitely after a container ship, the Dali, lost power and smashed into a bridge column around 1:30 a.m., causing much of the 1.6-mile, four-lane overpass to fall into the Patapsco River.

Two survivors were pulled from the water and rescue teams were searching for six others who were on the bridge when it went down.

About 40 ships, including 34 cargo vessels, were heading for Baltimore and 10 commercial ships dropped anchor in nearby waters, according to the New York Times, which cited data from the MarineTraffic tracking company.

The Baltimore-bound ships may be rerouted to ports in New Jersey or North Carolina, MarineTraffic analyst Georgios Hatzimanolis told the Times.

"We do expect there to be a ripple effect, but it's a bit too early to say what the impact will be," he said.

The situation could also lead to a shift in ship traffic to the West Coast but it's unclear which ports would be able to deal with a surge in the roll-on/roll-off vessels, known and Ro-Ros, that carry wheeled cargo if Baltimore were to remain closed for long, according to Bloomberg.

Major automakers including General Motors, Toyota and the Volkswagen Group ship their vehicles in in and out of Baltimore, CNN reported.

Ford's chief financial officer, John Lawler, told Bloomberg Television that the bridge collapse would "lengthen the supply chain a bit" and that the company was rerouting auto parts to other East Coast ports.

In a statement, GM said it rerouted vehicle shipments to other ports and expected "minimal impact to our operations."

VW's Baltimore shipping facility, which the company said handled about 100,000 vehicles for northeast and mid-Atlantic dealers last year, is located east of the bridge and still has ocean access.

But while the company doesn't expect its shipping operations to be affected, it said that "there may be trucking delays as traffic will be rerouted in the area."

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Two officials have stepped away from the Transitional Presidential Council amid the toppling of Haiti's government, adding to the developing country's growing political turmoil.

According to The Haitian Times, Rene Jean-Jumeau is the latest representative to withdraw from the temporary council. The council's main task is to select an interim prime minister for Haiti. Unfortunately, the streets of Haiti are currently overwhelmed with mayhem and gang violence.

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Ariel Henry vowed to resign from his position as soon as a TPC was put in place. The 74-year-old prime minister faced pressure to step down due to the escalating violence and lawlessness in the nation.

Jean-Jumeau informed council members on Monday that he would be withdrawing from the Council. He had originally intended to offer his services as a volunteer secretary but cited the reactions to recent events as the reason for his decision as Headlines & Global News previously reported.

"I will withdraw from the Council, as I had explained," Jean-Jumeau informed council members Monday.

"After today's reactions, I will not be able to offer my services as a volunteer secretary as I had intended," he added.

Dominique Dupuy, another council member, also announced her withdrawal on Sunday. The 34-year-old cited safety concerns and threats as her reasons for pulling out.

However, the UN ambassador vowed her "ongoing commitment to defend the Haitian people," in a video shared to X

With two members stepping down, the council now faces the challenge of finding suitable replacements in order to proceed with the process of electing a new leader.

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France's defense minister has denied claims made by investigative journalists that France provided components for ammunition used by the Israeli army in its war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The investigative outlets' reporting provided evidence through photos of the links, which they claimed were taken on October 23, weeks after Hamas' deadly October 7 attack on Israel that started the fierce battle in Gaza.

France Denies Supplying Arms to Israel

Investigative websites Disclose and Marsactu reported that the Marseille-based company Eurolinks had sold Israel M27 links, which are metal components used to join rifle cartridges into ammunition belts for machine guns.

They claimed that such ammunition could have been used against civilians in the Gaza Strip.

AFP was unable to confirm the reported shipment.

However, Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu told reporters in Paris that Eurolinks's permission to export to the Israeli company IMI Systems "only covers re-export to third countries" and is not used by the Israeli army.

Left-wingers have demanded that France cease all arms exports to Israel and follow Canada's lead.

In a recent parliamentary hearing, MP Mathilde Panot, a leader of the France Unbowed (LFI) opposition, called the exports a "massive scandal" and accused Lecornu of "lying."

Last month, the minister told the National Assembly lower house's defense committee that France's stance on arms sales to Israel was "irreproachable" with recent shipments of ball bearings, glass, cooling systems, and sensors.

"In general, these are arms planned to be re-exported from Israel to other customers," he added at the time.

Since October 7, Lecornu claimed that he had ordered civil servants to be "even stricter" when inspecting exports to Israel.

Furthermore, he acknowledged that France has granted permits for sections of Israel's "Iron Dome" missile defense system.

Read Also: Brazil Launches Investigation Into Bolsonaro's 2-Night Sleepover at Hungarian Embassy

Canada to Halt Arms Exports to Israel

Canada has decided to stop arms exports to Israel after a non-binding vote in the House of Commons. On Tuesday, Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly declared that her government would stop future arms shipments.

The ruling follows a parliamentary motion introduced by the New Democratic Party (NDP) that called on the governing Liberals to cease future arms exports to Israel. The New Democrats, supporters of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's minority government, have voiced their dissatisfaction with what they see as his failure to do enough to protect civilians in Gaza.

The motion passed 204-117 with the backing of the Liberals, Bloc Quebecois, and Green party, which also called on Canada to work towards establishing the state of Palestine.

A last-minute agreement between the Liberals and the NDP, which had earlier demanded that the government "recognize the state of Palestine," led to the victorious vote late on Monday.

Furthermore, the vote does not appear to alter Canada's position that a negotiated deal between Israel and the Palestinians should lead to Palestinian statehood.

Canada previously stated that even though it had stopped granting Israel military export licenses, it was still reviewing applications "case-by-case."

Related Article: Canada To Suspend Arms Exports To Israel After Parliamentary Motion



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Authorities are still searching for six workers who went missing after a tragic incident on Tuesday. A major bridge in Baltimore collapsed, causing the construction crew to fall into the cold water below.

According to Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, the six missing individuals are believed to have died, considering the significant amount of time that has passed since the crash and the depth of the water.

"We are hearing one body was found," Baltimore City Council Member Phylicia Porter told CNN. No further information has been provided regarding the body, and authorities have chosen to withhold the individual's identity.

The active search and rescue mission for the missing workers, who tragically fell off the Francis Scott Key Bridge after a cargo ship collided with it on Tuesday morning, is coming to a close, according to the Coast Guard.

Video captures the intense efforts of rescue teams as they comb through the Patapsco River following the devastating bridge collapse. The incident has resulted in vehicles being submerged and several workers reported missing.

Various teams are currently inspecting the Singaporean-flagged Dali following its collision with the bridge on Tuesday morning. The remains of the 1.6 mile-long bridge are visible in the bow of the vessel, as search teams use flashlights to scour the murky waters for the missing individuals.

There are currently five vehicles submerged in the river, and unfortunately, there are six construction workers who are still missing. These workers were on the bridge when it collapsed.

Authorities in Maryland are currently utilizing sonar technology to locate individuals who fell into the frigid water while carrying out repairs on the bridge. The incident occurred when the 185-foot structure unexpectedly collapsed.

Authorities have recently reported the discovery of five submerged vehicles using advanced infrared and side-scan sonar technology. The vehicles include three passenger cars, a cement truck, and another unidentified vehicle.

The state of emergency was declared by Governor Wes Moore on Tuesday morning after a devastating collision took place around 1.30am. The ship had only been sailing for 20 minutes when it collided with a support column on the bridge.

Moore said the ship's crew successfully issued a distress signal before colliding with the bridge, enabling officials to prevent vehicles from accessing the bridge.

"We're thankful that between the 'mayday' and collapse that-that we had officials who were able to-to begin the stop the flow of traffic so more cars were not up on the bridge," Moore expressed.

According to Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld, a total of eight individuals were present on the bridge during its collapse. Fortunately, two of them were successfully rescued from the water. One of the survivors chose not to receive medical treatment, while the other was transported to the hospital for further assistance.

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On Tuesday, the American Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Ohio, and the law firm Goodwin filed a lawsuit challenging House Bill 68, legislation in Ohio that prohibits transgender youth from receiving gender-affirming medical care and bans transgender girls from participating in women's sports.

The complaint addresses the restrictions on medical care and requests that the SAFE Act, which stands for Save Adolescents from Experimentation, be declared unconstitutional by the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas before its scheduled implementation date of April 24, 2024.

ACLU Files Lawsuit Against Ohio

Physicians who provide gender-affirming care for transgender youth would be subject to discipline by the applicable professional licensing board under the legislation. The law includes exceptions for such care for non-transgender youth and also consists of a grandfather clause that allows transgender people already receiving care to continue doing so.

Two families filed the complaint, claiming their children could lose access to "critical, medically necessary" healthcare. They argue that the law violates the Equal Protection provision and four other sections of the Ohio Constitution.

This clause and the Due Course of Law clause stipulate that no measure may address more than one subject and that no rule or legislation shall prohibit purchasing or selling Health Care or health insurance.

Freda Levenson, Legal Director at the ACLU of Ohio, said in a statement regarding the lawsuit that these personal, private medical rulings should remain between families and doctors and noted that they do not belong to politicians.

She continued that they will fight in court to provide access to lifesaving healthcare without government intrusion to trans youth and their parents.

One of the children named in the lawsuit, who was unidentified due to age, said that using puberty blockers helped her ease her fear and anxiety about her body changing in ways inconsistent with her gender, which has improved her mental health and relieved her gender dysphoria.

Her family claims that if HB 68 is implemented, they will not be able to provide her with estrogen hormone therapy when the time comes if that is what she wants, and her parents agree, which has raised concerns about her health.

Read Also: New Yorker Pushed to His Death in Unprovoked Subway Attack

Gov. DeWine Expresses Concerns on Trans Medical Care Ban

In January, the Republican-controlled Ohio House and Senate overrode a bill vetoed by Republican Gov. Mike DeWine.

DeWine had voiced concerns that the state would be subject to legal challenges if the bill passed. A federal judge declared an Arkansas law unconstitutional, and legislation of a similar law has been stopped in several states, including Texas and Georgia, pending the outcome of legal proceedings.

Furthermore, he also expressed his concern about the possible effects that banning transgender medical care could have on the small, vulnerable transgender population.

During his remarks following his veto, he claimed that many parents had told him that their child would be dead today if they had not received the treatment they received from an Ohio children's hospital. He added that he has also been told by those who are now grown adults that, but for this care, they would have taken their lives when they were teenagers.





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According to a legal complaint filed with the Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights on Monday, the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship, a university scholarship only offered to Black students, violates US federal civil rights law.

In a complaint shared with The College Fix, the legal watchdog group Equal Protection Project of the Legal Insurrection Foundation claimed North Central University's George Floyd scholarship infringes Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which forbids educational institutions from racial discrimination because it is only open to Black students.

George Floyd Scholarship Receives Criticisms

According to the complaint, the private Christian university in Minneapolis, Minnesota, engages in unfair discrimination based on race, color, and national origin through its George Floyd Memorial Scholarship.

The information page claimed that students must be Black or African American, that is, a person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa, to be eligible for the scholarship.

North Central University President Scott Hagan announced the scholarship on June 4, 2020, to invest like never before in a new generation of young black Americans who are poised and ready to take leadership in the nation.

On Monday, Equal Protection founder William Jacobson emailed The College Fix that the George Floyd Scholarship eligibility requirements are racially discriminatory. He added that regardless of the purpose of the racial discrimination, it is wrong and unlawful.

Furthermore, Jacobson said that NCU must create a restorative plan to compensate students who have been shut out of the George Floyd Scholarship due to discrimination.

According to a footnote in the complaint, the watchdog group further alleges that the university defies the civil rights protections of Minnesota's Human Rights Act, which makes it a criminal offense for an educational institution to limit access to any educational program based on race.

Jacobson told The College Fix that it is clear that discriminating based on race to achieve diversity is not lawful following the Supreme Court's decision to reverse affirmative action last summer.

He claimed that, as Chief Justice Roberts wrote in the majority opinion, eliminating racial discrimination means eliminating all of it. He added that NCU knows better than running educational scholarships that exclude race-based students.

Furthermore, he noted that NCU's nondiscrimination policies forbid racial discrimination.

Read Also: France's Defense Minister Rejects Allegations of Supplying Arms to Israel Amid Gaza War

Death of Floyd Sparks Protests

Just hours had passed since Floyd's death when the movement started. People flocked to the South Minneapolis junction where he was killed just after Memorial Day, driven by word-of-mouth and a horrifying video, demanding an end to police violence against Black Americans.

The period of widespread sorrow and rage has swiftly led to a year-long national discussion on what it means to be Black in America. US history's largest mass protest campaign started with nationwide demonstrations in big and small communities.

Later, almost 170 Confederate symbols were changed or eliminated from public areas during the next several months. As the country struggled with Floyd's death, "Black Lives Matter" became prominent.

Over the next 11 months, calls for racial justice would impact nearly every facet of American life on a scale that historians say had not happened since the civil rights movement of the 1960s.

Related Article: Biden Apologizes for Using 'Illegal' to Describe Laken Riley's Alleged Murderer



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The lawyer representing Sean "Diddy" Combs broke his camp's silence, saying that his client was the victim of a "witch hunt" and criticized what he claimed was the "military-level force" used against him during the raid in his properties in Miami and Los Angeles this week.

Combs's attorney, Aaron Dyer, announced his client's sentiments over an email obtained by the Daily Mail over 24 hours after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initiated an investigation on allegations regarding Diddy's sexual abuse.

"Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr. Combs's residences," Dyer said. "There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated."

Dyer further claimed that Combs was "never detained but spoke to and cooperated with authorities," in response to media reports indicating that Combs and his family were detained.

"Despite media speculation, neither Mr. Combs nor any of his family members have been arrested nor has their ability to travel been restricted in any way," the lawyer added.

Diddy was seen speaking to customs agents at an airport 15 minutes from his Miami Beach on Monday evening (Mar. 25) but was never arrested.

"This unprecedented ambushpaired with an advanced, coordinated media presenceleads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr. Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits," Dyer continued. "There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations. Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name."

Read Also: Sean 'Diddy' Combs Bids Late Ex-Partner Kim Porter Happy Birthday on Instagram Amid Rape, Abuse Allegations

Other Details of the Diddy Raid

Unnamed sources familiar with the matter told Page Six that Diddy was planning to fly to the Bahamas to spend time with his 17-year-old twins, Jessie and D'Lila Combs when the agents stormed into his properties.

The rapper flew from LA's Van Nuys Airport to Miami on Monday, just hours before DHS agents raided his properties, where two of his sons were detained in his Holmby Hills, California, home.

ABC News additionally reported that the agents claimed to gather evidence, including a "number" of electronic devices.

No criminal charges have been filed, and Diddy has denied all allegations of sexual misconduct.

The raid came weeks after one of Combs's accusers was ordered to reveal her identity. She alleged that the rapper and two of his friends sexually assaulted her when she was just 17.

While the woman's identity has yet to be revealed in the lawsuit, a judge ruled she would no longer be able to stay anonymous if the suit proceeds.

Prince Harry Mentioned in Lawsuit vs. Diddy

Meanwhile, Page Six reported that Prince Harry, the US-based younger son of British monarch King Charles III, was mentioned in a $30 million lawsuit accusing Combs of sexual abuse.

Music producer Rodney "Lil Rod" Jones said in court documents filed last month that guests were drawn to Diddy's alleged sex-trafficking parties due to the rapper's "access to celebrities such as famous athletes, political figures, artist [sic], musicians and international dignitaries like British royal Prince Harry."

However, the Duke of Sussexhimself embroiled in his own legal battlesis not a defendant, nor has he been accused of criminality.

It was alleged that Harry and his older brother - William, Prince of Wales - met Diddy at a party they hosted in 2007 to thank everyone who took part in the "Concert for Diana" benefit show at Wembley Stadium, held in honor of the prince's late mother, Princess Diana.

Harry and Diddy posed for a photo with Kanye West at the time, but it is unknown whether they ever hung out again.

The Duke of Sussex's representatives have yet to respond to reporters' requests for comment.

Related Article: Sean 'Diddy' Combs Homes in LA, Miami Raided By US Homeland Security

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According to a war monitor and Syrian state media, at least 15 people were killed in air strikes in eastern Syria on Tuesday, including an Iranian military adviser and a team member working for the UN's World Health Organization.

It was not immediately clear who was responsible for the air strikes on Tuesday.

Syria Air Strikes Kill 15 People

According to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor connected to Syria's opposition, at least 15 people, including an adviser with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), two of his bodyguards, nine Iraqi fighters from an Iran-backed group, and two Syrians working with the Iranians, were reported to have died.

Syrian state media said one civilian and at least seven soldiers, including an IRGC member, were killed. The strikes, which targeted residential areas and military sites in the province of Deir ez-Zor and damaged both public and private property, also left at least 19 other troops and 13 civilians wounded.

The WHO claimed that Emad Shehab, an engineer in the provincial capital, also named Deir ez-Zor, was killed after his building was struck by one of several airstrikes that occurred in the area.

It stated that Shehab was the WHO representative for the Syrian city's water, sanitation, and hygiene.

Hanan Balkhy, WHO's regional director for the eastern Mediterranean, said in a statement that Shehab's untimely passing marks not only a great loss for his loved ones but is a reminder of the continuous violence and suffering of the people of Syria.

"My colleagues and I are heartbroken at the tragic loss of another one of our own in an airstrike in #Syria this morning," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Israel sometimes attacks Iran-linked targets in Syria but rarely acknowledges them. Meanwhile, the US claimed it was not behind the assaults that occurred overnight.

Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh told reporters in Washington that they did not carry out air strikes in Syria last night.

According to Iran's official news agency IRNA, referring to Israel, the strike was carried out by the Zionist regime.

Behrouz Vahedi, a military adviser who was killed, was named by IRNA as a member of the Quds force, the foreign operations arm of the IRGC.

The Observatory said that the strikes were the first of their kind in eastern Syria since early February.

Hammoud al-Jabbour told AFP he woke up to explosions. He said it was one of the biggest strikes he had heard, and the windows of his house were shattered. The power was cut in several neighborhoods, and the main roads were closed.

Read Also: Blacks-only George Floyd Scholarship' Racially Discriminatory,' Federal Complaint Says

IDF Strikes Hezbollah in Lebanon

On Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces said that they had launched airstrikes on Hezbollah sites deep in Lebanon. The terror group had earlier attacked a border town winery and a crucial air traffic control center in northern Israel, suffering damage in the latter attack.

The Israeli airstrike near the village of Zboud in the northeast, which is located around 110 kilometers away from Israel's border, was the most extensive attack in Lebanon during the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

According to the IDF, the operation targeted a military compound used by Hezbollah's aerial unit near Zboud in the Baalbek District in retaliation for Hezbollah's earlier-day attack on the Mount Meron air traffic control base.

The IDF claimed that the compound included several buildings and a landing pad for drones. It is also said to have hit an observation station in Maroun al-Ras, as well as a building and other infrastructure used by Hezbollah in the southern Lebanon towns of Ayta ash-Shab and Kafr Kila.

Related Article: Israel Renews Strikes on Hezbollah Strongholds: Reports



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The Illinois Prisoner Review Board head and one of its members resigned in response to criticism for releasing a guy who, less than a day after being set free, fatally killed the young son of his ex-girlfriend.

Following the March 13 murder of 11-year-old Jayden Perkins, board chair Donald Shelter and board member LeAnn Miller resigned on Monday, according to CBS 2.

Jayden Perkins' Death

The reason for the resignations from Gov. JB Pritzker's office was not disclosed.

However, it was confirmed that Miller presided over the parole hearing for Crosetti Brand, who is facing charges for the stabbing of his pregnant ex-girlfriend, Laterria Smith, and the murder of her 11-year-old son, Jayden Perkins, shortly after being paroled. Miller wrote the report that suggested Brand's release from prison.

The Democratic Governor Pritzker removed her from position on the Prisoner Review Board, citing the reason that the evidence in this particular case was not given the thorough investigation that one could anticipate from victims of domestic abuse.

Additionally, the board and the Department of Corrections are going to investigate the protocols that are in place for the exchange of information about instances that include domestic violence.

According to Pritzker, the case may bring up difficulties that call for legislation to be enacted to expand the legal jurisdiction of officials in situations like this.

Read Also: Baltimore Key Bridge Collapse Likely to Impact US Auto Imports, Exports

Brand Faces Charges for Violent Crimes

A half-dozen more violent felonies and first-degree murder are among the charges that have been filed against Brand, who was involved in a relationship with Smith fifteen years ago. In October, he was granted release after serving half of a sentence of sixteen years for assaulting another ex-partner in 2015.

The offense happened in 2015. Brand was ordered back to jail in February after he was accused of continuously contacting Smith, who has an order of protection against him. Smith had before the order of protection against Brand. A defensive order has been issued against Brand, which Smith has received. On February 26, at his hearing before the Prisoner Review Board, he explained his situation.

Brand indicated that he did not visit her apartment and provided evidence that his electronic monitoring bracelet did not show any indication of any violations related to his physical limits. Additionally, he said that he was not beyond the boundaries of his physical capabilities.

When asked about more suspected parole violations, he responded by stating that he occasionally worked late hours at a Red Lobster restaurant. This was his response to the question.

However, despite having noticed that Smith was not invited to testify, the board came to the decision that there was not enough evidence to support her accusations, AP News reported.

Related Article: New York Police Officer Gunned Down in Traffic Stop

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On Wednesday, the startup in Indonesia Qoala said it had secured $47 million in a new round co-led by PayPal Ventures and MassMutual Ventures.

The five-year-old startup offers personal insurance plans that cover a range of risks, such as ticket cancellations, phone screen damage, and accidents.

Qoala Raises $47 Million With PayPal

Qoala has now raised over $130 million in total funding since its founding with the participation of MUFG Innovation Partners, Omidyar Network, and returning investors Flourish Ventures, Eurazeo, and AppWorks in the Series C fundraising.

With its headquarters in Jakarta, Qoala is an insurance broker that collaborates with leading regional insurers and e-commerce companies to provide clients with individualized and reasonably priced products.

It offers insurance for vehicles, motorbikes, property, travel, health, and personal accidents via its website, app, and in-person interactions.

Indonesia, the world's fourth most populated nation, has a low insurance penetration rate. The Indonesian Financial Services Authority reported that the country's insurance penetration rate is less than 4%, less than the global average.

This low penetration can be attributed to numerous causes, such as low disposable income among the population, limited awareness of insurance products, and a lack of trust in insurance providers.

The Insurance Development Institute added that many small firms are in Indonesia's highly fragmented insurance market, which increases competition, reduces profit margins, and jeopardizes the sector's ability to grow and penetrate the market.

The startup uses machine learning to detect fraud and streamlines the claims process through image uploads. It also depends on a network of over 60,000 human workers, which it refers to as "agents" or marketers, to sell insurance.

Furthermore, this benefits customers and insurers by increasing access to practical and affordable insurance solutions.

The firm reached 45,000 new customers the previous year and handled over 115,000 claims. With support from Peak XV, Qoala operates in Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam in addition to its home market of Indonesia.

Although it did not provide exact figures, Qoala disclosed that its gross written premiums had increased by 2.5 times since 2022 and that the firm now internally manages up to 60% of all claims.

Read Also: Syria Air Strikes Kill 15 Including Iranian Military Adviser, WHO Worker

CEO of Qoala Shows Confidence in New Funding

Harshet Lunani, co-founder and CEO of Qoala, stated that the fresh funding "demonstrates market confidence" in the company's approach. "Our mission to democratize insurance remains steadfast, and with this new infusion of funds, we are better equipped than ever to drive innovation and impact lives and livelihoods," he added in an earlier statement.

With the additional funding, Qoala intends to investigate strategic alliances and acquisitions and integrate AI throughout its channels.

Alexandros Bottenbruch, Principal at PayPal Ventures, said that it is commendable to see what Qoala has achieved in a short period. He added that Qoala is providing consumers across Southeast Asia with much-needed tools to address the persistent protection gap by positioning itself as the solution of choice for both consumer-facing platforms and traditional agents.

Indonesia is no stranger to PayPal Ventures. In 2020, it also supported Gojek.

Related Article: PayPal's Offline Payment Service Coming Soon! Here's How EU's DMA Can Help Make It Happen



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TRIGGER WARNING: The following story may be distressing to some readers as it tackles topics such as sexual abuse, sexual assault, and rape.

Amit Soussana, a 40-year-old Israeli lawyer whom Hamas took hostage on Oct. 7, revealed in a bombshell report that the Palestinian militant group sexually assaulted her during her 55-day captivity.

Soussana detailed to the New York Times that the abuse began just days after Hamas took her prisoner.

Her captor had unchained her from the bed for what she thought was to allow her to take a bath.

But then, things took a violent turn.

A Hamas fighter who called himself Muhammad - described as a chubby, balding man of average height with a wide nose - made his first sexual advance on Soussana around Oct. 24, when he returned to the toilet with a pistol in hand.

"He came towards me and shoved the gun at my forehead," she told the Times, adding that she was forced to remove her towel.

Afterward, Muhammad groped her, sat her on the edge of the bathtub, and hit her again before dragging her back to a bedroom and forcing her to have sexual intercourse.

Muhammad later showed remorse, begging her not to "tell Israel" of the deed.

She even detailed how Muhammad was specifically interested in when her menstrual period would end.

"Every day, he would ask: 'Did you get your period? Did you get your period? When you get your period, when it will be over, you will wash, you will take a shower and you will wash your clothes,'" Soussana recalled.

The captor also made several non-sexual advances in an attempt to reconcile for the act, to which she refused.

"You can't stand looking at him - but you have to: He's the one who's protecting you, he's your guard," Soussana said. "You're there with him and you know that every moment it can happen again. You're completely dependent on him."

Read Also: Israel Defies UN Security Council's Call for Immediate Cease-Fire, Continues Strikes on Gaza

Over the span of 55 days, Soussana recalled to the Times how she was transferred from location to location inside Gaza until she eventually reunited with a few hostages when she was brought into a Hamas tunnel hideout. There, she received a renewed beating from several Hamas captors.

Soussana was finally released on Nov. 30 alongside 105 other hostages during a seven-day truce.

She reported the sexual assaults within days of her return and has remained consistent with her accounts of the abuse she suffered, officials said. She also sustained several injuries, including fractures in her right eye socket, cheek, knee, and nose and severe bruising on her knee and back.

A Hamas spokesman tried to cast doubt on Soussana's claims, stating that the level of detail in her account made it "difficult to believe the story unless it was designed by some security officers."

"For us, the human body, and especially that of the woman, is sacred," spokesman Basem Naim told the Times in a statement, emphasizing Hamas's religious beliefs "forbade any mistreatment of any human being, regardless of his sex, religion or ethnicity."

While Soussana was the first hostage to recount such horrifying abuse publicly, a United Nations report from earlier this month indicated that there was "clear and convincing information" that some hostages suffered sexual violence.

Related Article: Israeli Hostages Raped, Impregnated by Hamas To Receive Financial, Legal Help; Militants To Decide Whether To Keep Infants

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American Pilots' Association executive director Clay Diamond said that the pilot controlling the Dali, the ship that caused the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, tried to slow her down before the crash.

He said he has been in close contact with officials from the Association of Maryland Pilots, who described what happened as the ship approached the bridge.

According to the Baltimore Banner, two tugboats operated by McAllister Towing and Transportation helped the Dali out of the Port of Baltimore between 00:30 and 01:00 local time (04:30 to 05:00 UTC) before peeling off.

Diamond then explained that when the ship was a few minutes out, she lost all power, including its engines. This prompted the pilot to order the rudder hard to port (make a hard left turn) to keep the ship from turning right and to order the port (left-side) anchor to be dropped. The pilot then contacted a dispatch office to get the bridge shut down as a precaution.

Diamond also said widely circulated images show the ship's lights turning off and then back on, sparking questions about whether the vessel had regained power. But, he said, the emergency generators that kicked in turned the lights back on but not the ship's propulsion.

Every foreign-flagged ship coming into US waters must have a state-licensed pilot on board, the Associated Press explained.

The Dali flew the flag of Singapore during the bridge collapse.

Read Also: Exclusive: Video Shows Close-Up Look at Baltimore Key Bridge Collapse

Pilots board the ships before they enter the local waterways and take "navigational control" of the ship, Diamond said. This means they give orders to the crew regarding the ship's speed and direction.

"These are among the most highly trained mariners in the world," he added.

SUNY Maritime School of Maritime Education and Training dean Capt. Jeffrey Spillane told the Banner that ports usually mandate tugboats to stay with cargo vessels for a specific period. But with multiple systems apparently failing on the ship, he said that the presence of tugboats "certainly would not have hurt."

"The tugboats are there to get you off the dock, spin the vessel around, and help with precise movement that is difficult for a large cargo ship," he said. "Once the vessel feels like they are all set, the tugboats get dismissed by the vessel's pilot."

Spillane added that the ship's captain could also request that the tugboats stay for a longer period of time.

Related Article: 6 Workers Presumed Dead in Baltimore Key Bridge Crash as Body Is Pulled From River

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(Photo : Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Former Massachusetts Police Officer James Feeley allegedly admitting to raping as child on Christmas night.

A Utah woman is currently facing a second attempted murder charge for allegedly drugging her husband on Valentine's Day, weeks prior to the alleged poisoning death in 2022. She had previously authored a children's book on grieving.

In March 2022, Kouri Richins, 33, was charged with killing her husband at their house in an isolated mountain community close to Park City by administering an illegal level of fentanyl. Prosecutors in Summit County submitted new charge paperwork on Monday, claiming that this was not her first attempt on his life.

Kouri Richins Faces New Allegations in Husband's Murder

The case of Kouri Richins, a former novelist who also wrote storybooks that she self-published, has received attention since her claim that she was involved in the murder of her husband. Not until last week did the prosecution bring fresh accusations, ignoring the fact that they have alleged that Richins may have attempted to poison her husband in the month before his passing.

Since she was jailed for the murder of her husband, the horrific case continues to draw many who are interested in stories about genuine crimes. One of the illustrated storybooks that Kouri Richins had self-published was titled "Are You With Me?" It was about a father who had angel wings and was watching over his little kid after he had passed away.

Those who are attempting to prove that Kouri Richins was involved in a deliberate murder plot and trying to cover it up have found that the book has become a deadly weapon.

The additional allegations portray a picture of a paranoid man walking on eggshells around his wife while she reached hidden financial arrangements and acquired illegal substances that were eventually detected in his system, according to AP News.

Read Also: Crew of Ship in Baltimore Key Bridge Collapse Made Mayday Call for Power Outage Before Impact: 'These People Are Heroes'

Friends Recall Eric Richins' Suspicions Before Death

Also, the new allegations explain the dangerous days that preceded Eric Richins' murder. The prosecution contends that Richins may have attempted to poison her husband one month before his passing, However, they did not submit the extra allegations until this week.

Two friends of Eric Richins are connected through phone conversations from the day that prosecutors are now suggesting he was first poisoned by his wife of nine years. These talks were recounted in the evidence of these two pals. Upon waking up from a deep slumber, he informed a buddy, "I think my wife tried to poison me."

This was after he had injected himself with the EpiPen that belonged to his kid and consumed a bottle of Benadryl. When Richins, who had no known allergies, told his friends that he felt like he was going to die and that his wife could be to blame, two of his friends said that they recognized terror in his voice. Richins had no known allergies.

She called 911 in the middle of the night one month later to tell them that she noticed her husband "cold to the touch" at the foot of their bed. Kouri Richins had reported that she had found him there. After he was declared dead, a medical examiner subsequently confirmed that he had five times the amount of fentanyl that is considered to be lethal in the body.

Also, Richins was charged with mortgage fraud and insurance fraud for allegedly faking loan applications and illegally collecting insurance benefits after his death. These charges were brought against him after his death.

Any person who has been convicted of murder in Utah is prohibited by law from generating a financial benefit toward their crime, The Washington Post reported.

Related Article: Mackenzie Hopkins Death: Missouri Dad Says He 'Collapsed' After Seeing Daughter Fatally Beaten in Bathtub

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Colombian President Gustavo Petro threatened to break off diplomatic ties with Israel if the country did not comply with a United Nations Security Council's resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

According to the Associated Press, Petro made the announcement on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, on Tuesday (Mar. 26).

Si Israel no cumple la resolucion de Naciones Unidas de Cese al Fuego rompemos relaciones diplomaticas con Israel. March 26, 2024

"If Israel does not comply with the United Nations' ceasefire resolution, we will sever diplomatic relations with Israel," the tweet wrote.

Petro made a separate statement on Monday (Mar. 25) in which he celebrated the resolution's approval and urged other nations to suspend ties with Israel if it does not cease its military offensive in Gaza.

In response, the Israeli Foreign Ministry accused Petro of being a "supporter of Hamas terrorists" who massacred men, women, and children on Oct. 7, saying that the Colombian chief executive was a "disgrace to the Colombian people."

El apoyo del presidente de Colombia @petrogustavo a los asesinos de Hamas que masacraron y cometieron atroces crimenes sexuales contra bebes, mujeres y adultos es una verguenza para el pueblo colombiano.

Israel seguira protegiendo a sus ciudadanos y no cedera a ninguna presion ni    Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) March 26, 2024

"Israel will continue to protect its citizens and will not give in to any pressure or threats," foreign minister Israel Katz wrote in Spanish.

The confrontation on X signaled a growing deterioration in the relations between both nations, which have gone from being military and commercial partners to becoming bitter ideological rivals.

Read Also: Colombia Picks New Attorney General Amid Turmoil for President Gustavo Petro's Administration

Colombia has been using Israeli-built warplanes and other weaponry for decades to fight drug cartels and rebel groups, with both countries recently signing a free trade agreement in 2020.

The South American nation also made multiple contracts with Israel for the provision of military communication equipment and produced assault rifles for its troops under a license from an Israeli manufacturer.

However, Israeli-Colombian relations deteriorated when Petro, a leftist and longtime supporter of the Palestinian cause, was elected to office in 2022.

Petro failed to condemn the Oct. 7 Hamas raid on villages in southern Israel, comparing Israeli soldiers to Nazi troops, prompting the Israeli Foreign Ministry to suspend its defense cooperation with Colombia.

In response to Israel's Gaza offensive, which he described as "genocide," he suspended military purchases from Israel after the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) personnel allegedly fired on Palestinians gathering around aid trucks, where over 100 people were killed.

Military analysts in Colombia said that the deterioration of relations with Israel would jeopardize the country's defense capabilities.

Related Article: Colombian President Suspends Weapons Purchases from Israel, Condemns Gaza Aid Convoy Deaths as 'Genocide'

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Members of the U.S. Coast Guard patrol near the cargo ship Dali as it sits in the water after running into and collapsing the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

The NTSB has boarded the cargo ship that crashed into the Baltimore Key Bridge early Tuesday morning and was able to recover the so-called "black box" that could shed light on what went wrong with the massive freighter.

NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy says investigators are looking at the data and hope to share more information later on Wednesday about what the data said and a timeline of events before the fatal accident.

"It's a critical piece of our investigation," Homendy said Tuesday of the ship's voyage data recorder.

In an interview on CNN Wednesday morning Homendy said they are concentrating on gathering evidence from the scene that is perishable.

"Right now it's getting what will disappear once this is cleaned up. That is our focus," Homendy said.

She says the analysis will come later but evidence collection is the current priority.

They are also planning to interview the crew and pilots who were on the vessel on Wednesday.

They also plan to interview fire and rescue personnel who responded to the scene as well as people who were on the bridge.

She said the NTSB will look into the possibility that the ship had dirty fuel that caused the power problems. Homendy cautioned that it was just one of many things that they would investigate and it was far too early to speculate that being the cause of the ship's problems.

Homendy said the safety record of the ship and its owners will be investigated.

The United States Coast Guard ended its search late Tuesday for six construction workers who were on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when it was rammed by the cargo ship Dali and collapsed into the Patapsco River.

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(Photo : Amir Levy/Getty Images)

Protesters hold signs and smoke torches during a demonstration calling for the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip.

Relatives of hostages held in Gaza locked themselves in cages in Tel Aviv Wednesday to draw attention to hostages still being held by Hamas.

They are calling on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach a hostage deal.

At least four protesters were arrested in the demonstration outside the Kirya military headquarters, the Times of Israel reported.

The protest came after the apparent collapse of talks in Qatar for a temporary truce and the release of the hostages, according to the Associated Press.

More than 100 people seized by Hamas gunmen on Oct. 7 remain as captives in Gaza.

Two of the protesters arrested were reportedly relatives of nine-year-old Ohad Munder-Zichri, who was snatched from Kibbutz Nir Oz along with his mother and grandparents.

Israeli police had called the protest illegal but allowed to to continue due to "required sensitivity".

In a statement they said they stepped in when "some of the protestors decided to go down to Ayalon Highway and block traffic, endangering motorists and themselves, and blatantly disrupting public order."

The protest came as one of the former hostages went public with her story of being sexually assaulted while in captivity.

Amit Soussana, a 40-year-old Israeli lawyer, said members of the Palestinian militant group sexually assaulted her during her 55-day captivity.

Soussana detailed to the New York Times that the abuse began just days after Hamas took her prisoner.

The United Nations Security Council on Monday demanded an immediate cease-fire in Gaza during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The resolution also demanded the release of all Israeli hostages, the Associated Press reported.

The vote passed on Monday morning after the United States abstained.

Netanyahu had blasted the resolution and the United States for not vetoing it. He said the resolution had emboldened Hamas and he vowed to press ahead with the war.

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(Photo : Danli En Contacto/Facebook)

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova was identified as one of the victims from the Baltimore Bridge Collapse

Divers were back in the choppy waters off of Maryland Wednesday morning to try to recover the bodies of six construction workers who died in the Baltimore Bridge collapse after it was hit by a huge cargo ship.

The six men whose bodies are still to be recovered are originally from Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala.

Guatemala's foreign affairs ministry says two of the victims are Guatemalans. In a news release, the victims were not named but the ministry said they were 26 and 35 years old originally from San Luis, Peten and Camotan, Chiquimula, respectively.

The Mexican Consulate in Washington confirmed in a Facebook post that Mexican nationals were among the victims but did not release any further information.

The non-profit organization identified one of the victims as El Salvador native Miguel Luna.

"He is a husband, a father of three, and has called Maryland his home for over 19 years," Casa executive director Gustavo Torres said in a statement.

Another of the workers was named as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova, according to the Associated Press. He was reportedly from Honduras. The married father of two had been in the U.S. for 18 years.

Jesus Campos said the missing men all work for Brawner Builders, a private company that was contracted to do work on the bridge.

Campos told the Washington Post that he was not working Monday but was woken early Tuesday by a co-worker with news of the accident.

"I'm very sad right now," Campos told the paper. "These are my co-workers and friends."

He says the crew would have been on a lunch break and probably sitting near their vehicles when the ship hit the bridge.

The NTSB has boarded the cargo ship that crashed into the Baltimore Key Bridge early Tuesday morning and was able to recover the so-called "black box" that could shed light on what went wrong with the massive freighter.

NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy says investigators are looking at the data and hope to share more information later on Wednesday about what the data said and a timeline of events before the fatal accident.

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(Photo : Marilyn Lands Campaign)

Marilyn Lands won a seat in a conservative Alabama district running on abortion rights.

Marilyn Lands, a Democrat who made protecting abortion rights and IVF a centerpiece of her campaign has won a special election to the Alabama Legislature in a district that Donald Trump carried in the last presidential election.

Lands reacted on X with, "Alabama women have spoken-thank you District 10!!"

Alabama women have spokenthank you District 10!!https://t.co/qu4GuPon9P  Marilyn for Alabama (@MarilynForAL) March 27, 2024

She vowed to help repeal Alabama's near-total ban on abortion. Land also has fought for the state's Right to Contraception Act which would enshrine the right to use and distribute contraception.

Lands beat Republican Teddy Powell by about 25 percentage points, the Washington Post reported. Donald Trump won the district by a single percentage point in 2020.

The suburban district represents parts of the cities of Madison and Huntsville, which is home to the Army's Redstone Arsenal and NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, according to the Associated Press.

Lands ran for the seat in 2022 but lost by seven percentage points to Republican David Cole.

The legislative seat became open again after he resigned from his seat. He pleaded guilty to a fraud charge after renting a tiny space to run for office in a district where he didn't live, WAFF-TV reported.

While it was a local election, national Democrats who have attempted to portray the state GOP as too extreme on abortion celebrated the results.

Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee President Heather Williams called the victory a "political earthquake in Alabama" in a post on X.

Congrats @MarilynForAL! There has been a political earthquake in Alabama tonight.



This was the first real test of voter backlash following the court decision threatening IVF, and they showed up in force. Marilyn ran courageously and unabashedly as a defender of repro freedoms. https://t.co/9VkRdS26UC  Heather Williams (@Heather4Dems) March 27, 2024

The Alabama Supreme Court ruled in mid-February that three couples who had frozen embryos destroyed in an accident at a storage facility could pursue wrongful death lawsuits for their "extrauterine children," the Associated Press reported. The ruling, treating an embryo the same as a child or gestating fetus under the wrongful death statute, raised concerns about civil liabilities for clinics.

Facing public pressure to get IVF services restarted, Alabama lawmakers earlier this month moved closer to approving protections for fertility clinics that shut down after the ruling.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
According to recent reports, the Trump presidential campaign is vulnerable in potential battleground states due to an inability or unwillingness to fully fund reelection efforts in those areas. In Michigan, a state that Donald J Trump won in 2016 but lost to Biden in 2020, Trump's campaign has promised an aggressive strategy.

However, neither the Trump campaign nor its partners in the Republican National Committee have made any significant investments in the state of Michigan according to Republican Party Chairman Pete Hoekstra.

He said the national committee has not transferred any money to the state party to bolster its operation going into the general election. Also, there's no general election field staff in place.

"We've got the skeleton right now," Hoekstra said. "We're going to have to put more meat on it."

According to Republican party officials in other states, the campaign is running into similar problems elsewhere.

What Does This Mean For Trump's Campaign?

Though praised for its professionalism and overall effectiveness during the primary phase, Trump's political machine has been slow to turn toward the general election home stretch in the weeks following his hostile takeover of the Republican Party's national leadership.

Analysts believe the Trump campaign may have even rolled back plans to add hundreds of staff members and dozens of minority-outreach centers in key states.

Six weeks prior to the first early votes are cast, it appears that the Republican Party has little to no infrastructure in place.

By contrast, the Biden campaign opened 100 new offices and added 350 plus new staffers in Arizona, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and other swing states, according to campaign spokesman Anmar Moussa.

Trump campaign senior adviser Chris LaCivita, who is now also running operations at the RNC, declined to detail any of the Republican campaign's plans.

"By combining forces, the Trump campaign and the RNC are deploying operations fueled by passionate volunteers who care about saving America and firing Joe Biden," he said. "We do not feel obligated, however, to discuss the specifics of our strategy, timing, or tactics with members of the news media."

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Horrific video capturing the fatal shooting of NYPD cop Jonathan Diller during a routine traffic stop in a Queens neighborhood shows the officer's agonizing final moments.

Diller, 31, was allegedly shot beneath his bulletproof vest by Guy Rivera, after the officer and his partner asked Rivera and Lindy Jones to move their vehicle parked illegally at a bus stop Monday, according to police, WABC-TV reported.

Rivera, 34, and Jones, 41, refused to comply with the request, prompting officers to order the suspects out of the vehicle, police said. In response, Rivera allegedly shot Diller.

On surveillance footage shared to the Instagram account @ny_scoop, Diller can be seen collapsing in the street while wailing in pain and screaming, "Oh, God!" following the sound of three booming gunshots.

Diller's partner, Officer Veckash Khedna, subsequently shot Rivera in the back, while another wrestled Jones out of the driver's seat ordering him to the ground, The New York Times reported, citing an internal police report.

Diller was pronounced dead at the hospital, while Rivera is expected to make a full recovery.

Both suspects involved in Diller's death are said to have lengthy criminal histories.

Rivera was previously arrested 21 times, Mayor Eric Adams said, according to WNYW-TV. Nine of those arrests were felony-related. He was released from prison in September 2021 after serving time for a drug conviction.

Jones previously incurred 14 arrests.

Murder charges against Rivera are still pending.

Meantime, Jones has been charged with criminal possession of a weapon and possession of a defaced firearm, WABC reported.

Diller was with the NYPD since 2021. He leaves behind a wife and a 1-year-old son.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Handout)

Kouri Richins is pictured with her husband Eric Richins.

A Utah woman who wrote a children's book about how to cope with grief after her husband's death  and then was charged in his murder  now faces a new charge alleging she had actually tried but failed to kill him once before.

Prosecutors say Kouri Richins, 33, fatally poisoned Eric Richins in March 2022 with a lethal dose of fentanyl added to a Moscow Mule that he was drinking to celebrate closing on the purchase of a home.

Now she is additionally accused of previously trying to kill Eric weeks earlier  on Valentine's Day  by poisoning his favorite sandwich at their suburban Salt Lake City home.

An arrest warrant claims that the pair had enjoyed a Valentine's Day dinner in their home. Shortly after the meal, Eric became very ill.

Police said Eric believed that he had been poisoned and told a friend that he thought his wife was trying to kill him.

He survived after injecting himself with his child's EpiPen and taking some Benadryl.

But Eric didn't survive the Moscow Mule she served him weeks later. Police found him on the floor in front of his bed.

She told officers that she had brought the drink to him as he sat in bed, claiming that she left the room and went to sleep with one of their children because the child was having a night terror.

Richins told investigators she woke up around 3 a.m. and came back to their bedroom and called 911 after finding him cold to the touch.

Police found inconsistencies in her story, including details about her phone that didn't match up.

An autopsy determined that he had died from the oral ingestion of an amount of fentanyl that was five times the lethal dosage.

The alleged sandwich poisoning was detailed in charging documents filed Monday.

Kouri Richins was also charged with mortgage fraud and insurance fraud for allegedly faking loan applications and illegally collecting insurance benefits after her husband's death.

She had self-published a book called "Are You With Me?" about a father who had angel wings and was watching over his little kid after he passed away.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The man convicted of slaughtering his neighbors in an effort to "execute vengeance" will spend the rest of his life behind bars, a judge ruled earlier this week.

Majorjon Kaylor, 32, pleaded guilty to four counts of second-degree murder in connection with the deaths of Kenneth Guardipee, 65; his daughter, Kenna Guardipee, 41; and her two teenage sons, Devin Smith, 18, and Aiken Smith, 16; at their shared Kellogg, Idaho, duplex, according to court records.

Kaylor was previously charged with four counts of first-degree murder and two counts of burglary but pleaded guilty to the lesser charges.

According to the affidavit, Kaylor admitted he was driven to commit the quadruple fatal shootings in June 2023 after Devin allegedly masturbated in front of his wife and their daughters.

During police questioning, Kaylor referred to Devin as a "pedophile" who "conducted acts of nudity" in front of his kids.

Kaylor said he confronted Devin's mother, Kenna, and his grandfather, Kenneth, about the incident, but alleged they did not take the issue seriously. He told detectives he "snapped," "lost it," and "did something about it," the affidavit read.

Judge Barbara Duggan delivered Kaylor's fate Monday, despite the prosecution's recommendation of a 50-year prison sentence.

"You took your firearm and you chose to execute them," Duggan told Kaylor, the Shoshone News-Press reported. "You knew it was unlawful and you chose to do it. Most case law deals with one victim, not four. This is beyond what we typically see, even in the criminal justice system."

In addition to life in prison, Kaylor was denied the possibility of parole.

Family members gave victim impact statements before Kaylor's sentencing.

"He killed an entire branch of our family tree. Never any great grandchildren to watch grow up. I lost my best friend (referring to Aiken)," according to KHQ-TV. "He spent hundreds of hours volunteering throughout the community. An entire beautiful family taken by one person," David Silva, Aiken and Devin's paternal grandfather, said.

It's unclear if Kaylor's defense team will appeal his sentence. His attorney, Chris Schwartz, did not immediately respond to Headline & Global News' request for comment.

@ 2024 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The China Development Forum (CDF) 2024 was held on March 24-25 at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing.

Held under the theme The Continuous Development of China, the CDF 2024 facilitated constructive exchanges on key and cutting-edge issues related to Chinas development and global development, and demonstrated the advantages and vitality of Chinas continuous economic development to the world.

Sean Green, President and CEO of BMW Group Region China told Peoples Daily Online that trade-ins of consumer goods, including vehicles, will be a welcome policy in the auto industry, which will stimulate consumer behavior again.

I am still confident this year, Green said. We still see China opening up. Weve taken advantage of that with our shareholding in the local joint venture BMW Brilliance (BBA). So, 75 percent of shareholding that we have through BMW, and we continue to see that.

Green said BMW just opened an insurance company last year, which is a great example of establishing new businesses in China. So opening up continues, he said.

We have huge confidence that growth will continue in China, but also that China will contribute to the growth of the world, said Antoine de Saint-Affrique, CEO of Danone.

China is a market of opportunity. It's a huge market. It's an extraordinarily sophisticated market. It's a market where we innovate locally in China for China and the rest of the world, de Saint-Affrique added.

Benjamin Harburg, Managing Partner of MSA Capital, told Peoples Daily Online that he believes in the growth of the China market, the power of Chinese consumers, and Chinas ability to become a more domestic consumption-led economy, which will lead to thrilling investment opportunities for MSA Capital as an investment fund.

Hosted by the Development Research Centre (DRC) of the State Council and organized by the China Development Research Foundation (CDRF), the CDF is the first major state-level international conference after the "Two Sessions".

(Ye Jingyi, as an intern, also contributed to this video.)




voco Hiroshima will be the second voco hotel in Japan after Osaka

The project was approved by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as a "Private Sector Guided Facilities Development Project"

The new hotel will offer a premium hotel experience that is anything but ordinary

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) today announced that it has signed its first management contract with Samty K.K. to open voco Hiroshima in mid 2027.

Part of the urban development next to Hiroshima Station, the 301-room new-build hotel will incorporate a design that will allow visitors to feel the history of the area, including a space that embraces Saigoku Kaido, the famous Edo Period highway (1603-1868) on which the hotel stands.

The addition of an outdoor cafe space where people can eat take-out food, a meeting space for local residents, and a "lively space" where people can wait for a bus are also planned, along with a temporary evacuation area for anyone needing shelter in the event of an emergency.

IHG launched voco in 2018, and now has 62 hotels worldwide, with another 74 scheduled to open in the coming years[*]. voco Hiroshima is second voco hotel in Japan, following the property in Osaka that opened in 2022, and is the brand's first foray into the Chugoku and Shikoku regions. welcoming guests from Japan and around the world.

Known as a symbolic place of prayer for world peace, Hiroshima is a tourist destination with diverse attractions, including a beautiful natural environment blessed with oceans, mountains, and rivers, and a rich culinary culture created by the bounty of the Seto Inland Sea. The hotel is located within walking distance of the Atomic Bomb Dome, a World Heritage Site, and the downtown area in the center of Hiroshima City. The hotel will contribute to the development of local tourism and expansion of business demand as a premium hotel that meets various needs.

The hotel is located on the former Saigoku Kaido, one of the most famous roads in the Edo period (1603-1868). As part of the urban development plan for the area around the south exit of Hiroshima Station, the hotel will be designed to evoke a sense of local history and to create a space that is reminiscent of the Saigoku Kaido.

In addition to the construction of a meeting space for local residents, a "lively space" with a waiting area near a bus stop and a temporary evacuation site for people who have difficulty returning home will be created under ministerial approval for the "Private Guidance Facilities Development Project."

The name "voco" means "to invite" or "to gather" in Latin. The brand experience is positioned as "Come on in with a warm welcome," "Me time," and "voco life," and promises an "unexpected and special" experience in a comfortable stay that is like a place you are used to. Starting with a welcome treatment inspired by the hotel's location and personality, a relaxing room experience away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and social interaction in the vibrant restaurants, cafes, and bars, we offer a premium hotel experience that is not "conventional" with natural and unpretentious service. IHG Hotels & Resorts offers a premium hotel experience that is anything but "ordinary".

IHG currently operates 47 hotels in Japan under seven brands: InterContinental, Kimpton, ANA Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Hotel Indigo, and voco. In addition, eight more hotels are scheduled to open by 2025 which include three luxury brands - Regent, Six Senses, and the Vignette Collection as well as Garner, a midscale conversion brand. IHG will continue to focus on business development in Japan to further expand its portfolio.

Overview of the Hotel

Location: 1 Matoba-cho, Minami-ku, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture

No. of guest rooms: 301

Access: 4-minute walk from JR Hiroshima Station

*As of December 31, 2023

Hotel website
London's highly anticipated lifestyle hotel, designed and filled with artworks by Signature Artist D*Face, will open 24th April 2024.

art'otel, the contemporary lifestyle hotel brand owned by PPHE Hotel Group, best known for its Park Plaza properties, is pleased to announce art'otel London Hoxton officially opening its doors on 24th April 2024. Offering a one of a kind hotel experience, the hotel will fuse art, design and hospitality to add to London's ever-evolving, popular Hoxton and Shoreditch neighbourhoods.

The hotel is located in the heart of bustling Shoreditch, close to Old Street Underground station, with easy access to the City, Liverpool Street Station, the new Elizabeth Line, and all the capital's major airports.

Signature Artist D*Face will take centre stage of the hotel's concept and design, and the opening is earmarked to be one of 2024's hottest and boldest. This is the second UK opening for the art'otel brand, following the spectacular opening of art'otel London Battersea Power Station in February 2023.

art'otel London Hoxton will feature 357 art-inspired guest bedrooms and suites all with unique skyline views. There are 48 luxury suites, perfect for those seeking a larger space to explore London from, and for families, including an awe-inspiring 196m D*Face Masterpiece Suite.

On the ground and first floor, and set to open alongside the hotel, guests can visit The Brush, an All Day Grand Cafe, Lounge & Cocktail Bar featuring the very best European signature dishes and cocktails, with its own outdoor terrace. A destination restaurant will launch later in the year on the 25th floor with outdoor terraces taking advantage of the dazzling 360 panorama across the capital.

Within the hotel, there will be a number of flexible event spaces on the 24th floor launching later in the summer, showcasing jaw-dropping views across the City, ideal for hosting up to 300 guests. The spaces will have capacity to showcase a variety of events - from talks to presentations and fashion shows. Uniquely, the hotel will also have a plush and state-of-the-art 60 seat auditorium, perfect for public movie screenings and product launches; all of this ensures a truly memorable art'otel experience and opens the space to a diverse and eclectic range of visitors.

The hotel will feature standout leisure facilities, opening with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym. A spectacular skyline gym on the 26th floor will follow in the summer as well as a luxury spa with four treatment rooms; showcasing products and treatments from Proverb a unique menu of treatments will leave guests feeling truly revitalised in the most soothing of settings. Using only vegan, organic and natural ingredients such as proteins, antioxidants and enzymes, Proverb products are formulated for lab proven results. Spa treatments range from massages to facials, nail treatments and full body experiences, all with a playful art'otel twist.

Cultural and artistic events from the hotel's art'beat programme featuring art, music, fashion, and wellness will be at the very heart of the art'otel guest experience, with opportunities for both up and coming and established artists to create and exhibit works on site. art'otel London Hoxton offers a source of endless inspiration, ensuring every inch of this new lifestyle hotel will leave guests feeling truly exhilarated and inspired.

To showcase the art'beat programme, the property features an immersive 135sqm art gallery that will play host to exclusive works from Signature Artist D*Face and other local and emerging artists, as well as revolving curated exhibitions throughout the year. Guests of the hotel, as well as members of the public, are able to discover the exhibition space too - adding to Hoxton's rich and cultural arts scene.

art'otel London Hoxton is brought to life by D*Face, recognised as one of the most prolific contemporary urban artists of his generation. Having spread his signature style worldwide, with well over 100 murals, a host of solo exhibitions, and major collaborations, D*Face has come full circle, returning to where it all started for him, in London's iconic East End. In collaboration with Eyal Shoan of award-winning interior design studio Digital Space, D*Face will feature works in all bedrooms and public spaces, curating everything from original large-scale sculptures and murals to bespoke details.

Perhaps one of the most iconic features of the exterior, alongside its two Banksy original artworks on public display, is its magnificent cogwheel design. Thought up by the creative architects at Squire & Partners, they have created a statement exterior that lends itself to the explosion of colours, artworks and creativity that envelop guests as they enter the front doors.

Hotel website
The executive team at InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, proudly announces the appointment of Pascale Selwan as the new General Manager of the 131-room luxury resort. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades in the hospitality industry, Selwan brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence to her new role.

Selwan's journey in the hospitality sector has been marked by continuous growth and accomplishments across diverse continents and cultures. Prior to joining InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, she held senior operational and commercial positions in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, showcasing her adaptability and strategic acumen.

In her most recent role as General Manager, Selwan played a pivotal role in facilitating the brand transition from Kempinski to IHG, demonstrating her leadership skills and dedication to quality. She firmly believes in leading with empathy, kindness, and inclusivity, creating an environment that fosters motivation, innovation, and collaboration among team members.

Looking ahead, Selwan has ambitious aspirations and goals for her role as General Manager at InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa. She aims to continuously collaborate with the resort team, local community, travel and hospitality partners to curate unforgettable experiences for guests while positioning Dominica as a prime tourist destination.

As a testament to her dedication to the hospitality industry, Selwan is a member of the Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association (DHTA) and the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA). Her commitment to sustainability and authentic travel underscores her vision to elevate guest experiences and make InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa a global luxury hospitality leader.
Hospitality America is thriving. Coming off the heels of its most profitable year for their hotel partners, Ben Campbell has transitioned from Chief Operating Officer to President and Chief Executive Officer. Hospitality America Founder and CEO Chris Cargen has retired and will assume the newly created position of Chairman of the Board. This transition symbolizes the company's unwavering commitment to sustained growth, operational excellence, and forward-thinking leadership.

Just weeks into his term, the 36-year-old chief is crafting his vision for the company, which includes growing from 17 hotels to 40 hotels in less than 10 years; expanding its portfolio to include more lifestyle and full-service brands; investing in tools and technologies to improve efficiencies, optimizing its capacity and profitability; and continuously enhancing the award-winning company culture for the betterment of employees and guests.

Campbell began his hospitality career 15 years ago, working as a Department Manager with Delaware North Companies Inc. (assisting at the Carolina Panthers Stadium and then managing the company's Concessions/Catering Departments). Journeying on to hotels, he served as Reservations and Revenue Manager for three Palisociety Hotels before working as Revenue Manager for OLS Hotels and Resorts (now Springboard Hospitality). In 2015, he joined Hospitality America, starting as Director of Sales, then held multiple General Manager positions until he was promoted to Regional Director of Operations and then Chief Operating Officer. It was in the COO role that Campbell began conceptualizing an ambitious vision for the company's future.

Campbell's advice to young people entering the hotel business is this: Work hard, learn much, and don't be afraid to speak up.

Hospitality America

Greenville, South Carolina

United States Website
GREENVILLE, S.C.  Hospitality America is thriving. Coming off the heels of its most profitable year for their hotel partners, Ben Campbell has transitioned from Chief Operating Officer to President and Chief Executive Officer. Hospitality America Founder and CEO Chris Cargen has retired and will assume the newly created position of Chairman of the Board. This transition symbolizes the companys unwavering commitment to sustained growth, operational excellence, and forward-thinking leadership.

Just weeks into his term, the 36-year-old chief is crafting his vision for the company, which includes growing from 17 hotels to 40 hotels in less than 10 years; expanding its portfolio to include more lifestyle and full-service brands; investing in tools and technologies to improve efficiencies, optimizing its capacity and profitability; and continuously enhancing the award-winning company culture for the betterment of employees and guests.

Ben's journey to CEO is a testament to his dedication and expertise in the hospitality industry, Cargen said. His experience at every level of the organization has positioned him to lead Hospitality America's next chapter. Ben's strategic vision and dedication to excellence will continue to position Hospitality America as an industry leader among third-party operators."

Rapid Rise to the Top

Campbell began his hospitality career 15 years ago, working as a Department Manager with Delaware North Companies Inc. (assisting at the Carolina Panthers Stadium and then managing the companys Concessions/Catering Departments). Journeying on to hotels, he served as Reservations and Revenue Manager for three Palisociety Hotels before working as Revenue Manager for OLS Hotels and Resorts (now Springboard Hospitality). In 2015, he joined Hospitality America, starting as Director of Sales, then held multiple General Manager positions until he was promoted to Regional Director of Operations and then Chief Operating Officer. It was in the COO role that Campbell began conceptualizing an ambitious vision for the companys future.

Throughout my career, I have always strived to be better, Campbell said. I firmly believe that when you see an opportunity, act on it  whether its securing third-party management contracts, helping guests, or recognizing and rewarding employees. Career development is extremely important. If there is one thing I want to project onto our associates, its the importance of learning something new every day. When that happens, promoting from within the company is a natural progression. While I plan to remain in the CEO role for quite some time, I would be honored to help grow the next successor.

The Future is Bright

After attending the 35th Annual Hunter Hotel Investment Conference last week, Campbell said he left the event knowing that the hotel industry is extremely positive, and that Hospitality America is in an enviable position for growth.

People feel optimistic, he said. The hotel brands are reporting that their pipeline of units sold is greater than ever before. That said, there are not as many shovels in the ground as there could be. We are seeing a diversity of commercial real estate firms entering the hospitality space, such as multi-family, and that is where Hospitality America has a significant advantage. With Hospitality America, owners and developers get the scale of a bigger company with the individual attention of a smaller management company. We bring financial capabilities, scalability, and ease to just pick up the phone, call the CEO, and get individual attention.

On behalf of Hospitality America, I want to express our gratitude for Mr. Cargen's years of outstanding leadership and mentorship, he said. Im committed to his legacy, achieving our strategic objectives and maintaining our position as a top place to work."

Campbells advice to young people entering the hotel business is this: Work hard, learn much, and dont be afraid to speak up.

About Hospitality America

Hospitality America is a leading third-party hotel development and management company and preferred partner of Hilton and Marriott. The company optimizes the hospitality experience through proprietary methodologies that align people, processes, and results, driving exceptional performance for our guests, team members, and partners. Hospitality Americas clients include REITs, private equity firms and major developers. For more information, please visit www.hospitalityamerica.com or connect with Hospitality America on LinkedIn.

Media Contact

Barb Worcester | PRpro

[email protected]

440.930.5770

Sales & Marketing

Daniel Lock | VP, Commercial Strategy

[email protected]

864.449.6206

Barb Worcester

Owner, President at PRPRO

14409305770

Hospitality America
A company's website serves as a powerful conduit for customer engagement, brand representation, and revenue generation. Nowhere is this more evident than in the hospitality industry, where a hotel website frequently marks the first point of contact with potential guests. Amidst discussions on digital marketing and website management, a pivotal question emerges: where should the control over website content and functionality reside - with its creators or with the businesses they represent, such as hotels striving to enhance their online presence with superior content and features?

The principle of customer-focused website design and management is vital, particularly in hospitality where customer engagement is key to success. Websites should continuously evolve based on customer feedback, preferences, and behaviors. It is therefore important for hoteliers to seek out partners who enable them to remain agile, avoiding the pitfalls of stagnation that could result in a static online presence, ill-equipped to cater to the needs of tech-savvy travelers.

The practice of hotel brands committing to a single partner limits access to a diverse array of tools and perspectives critical in an AI-driven industry. Embracing a variety of technological inputs is essential, especially in AI integration and personalization, as they present unique opportunities for enriching the guest experience. Exclusivity can hinder access to advanced features, diverse AI technologies, and innovative digital strategies, thereby limiting a hotel's ability to deliver a cutting-edge digital experience. Consequently, it fosters a uniform digital landscape devoid of the creative competition necessary to drive technological progress.

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, staying attuned to market dynamics is crucial to ensure that a hotel's website accurately mirrors current market realities and meets evolving guest expectations. Hotels that partner exclusively with a single developer risk missing out on the optimization of essential strategies such as SEO, social media integrations, and data analytics. This oversight can weaken their online visibility and hamper their efforts in customer engagement.

Respecting the autonomy of hotels in selecting their web solutions is not just a matter of fairness but a testament to true partnership. Empowering hotels to choose the most suitable web solutions acknowledges their expertise in understanding their own customer base and business needs. This approach cultivates a collaborative environment where the shared goal is to provide exceptional customer experiences and propel business growth.

Binding hotels to exclusive contracts exposes properties to the risk of compromising customer experience, stifling innovation, and limiting market responsiveness and AI integration. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it's imperative for hotels to have the freedom to collaborate with a variety of developers. This ensures competitiveness and enables them to adeptly address the evolving needs of their guests.

About the authors

Michael J. Goldrich, THN's Chief Experience Officer. After spending nearly two decades in digital marketing and project leadership for multimillion-dollar brands and startups, Michael knows what drives website engagement  and its not by leveraging the marketing trend of the month. Its how well you connect with the potential guests youre trying to help and communicate your understanding back to them. Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.

Mercedes Blanco, THN's Chief Partnerships Officer. Mercedes is a corporate leader executive with over 15 years of experience in travel and hospitality. Passionate about creating value through digital-tech solutions, as well as fighting for women empowerment, she is an active member of the Sales Americas Advisory Board at HSMAI, and founding member of Women in Travel THRIVE. Connect with Mercedes on LinkedIn.

About The Hotels Network

The Hotels Network is an innovative technology company working with over 20,000 hotels around the globe. Boasting an international team of specialists with deep expertise in hospitality, product design and consumer marketing, the company offers clients a full-stack growth platform to power their direct channel. By leveraging a series of integrated tools and analytics, hotel brands can attract, engage and convert guests throughout the user journey.

In addition to price comparison, reviews summary and a full suite of personalization options, THN's Predictive Personalization product harnesses machine learning techniques to predict user behavior and then automatically personalizes both the message and the offer for each user. The company's benchmarking product, BenchDirect, is the first of its kind for the direct channel, providing hotels with never-before-seen competitive data.

THN is proud to have been recognized for the company's product innovations, rapid growth, and unique workplace culture for the second year in a row, most recently named the Best Direct Booking Tool for 2024 in the prestigious HotelTechAwards.

For more information about THN, visit https://thehotelsnetwork.com/en or contact [email protected].

Paige Lopez

Content Marketing Manager

The Hotels Network
ASG sells Hilton Barcelona Fira Gran Via in Barcelona, Spain

A summary of European hotel transactions provided by HVS

CPIPG sells 50% stake in eight Czech hotels to Best Hotel Properties

Czech real estate investment firm CPI Property Group (CPIPG) has formed a joint venture agreement with Slovakian company Best Hotel Properties, selling a 50% stake in its subsidiary that owns a portfolio of eight hotels in the Czech Republic, for roughly 173 million, valuing the entity at 347 million. The transaction also included the operating company CPI Hotels A.S., which is expected to remain the hotels operator. The assets within the portfolio include the Clarion Congress Hotel Prague, the Mamaison Residence Downtown Prague and the Comfort Hotel Prague City East. CPIPG is expected to use the proceeds from this transaction to service debt. CPIPGs portfolio primarily consists of Czech, German and Polish real estate assets which totalled 20.3 billion as of Q3 2023 and of which hotels represented approximately 5% at the time.

BG Hotels sells BG Portinatx Beach Club Hotel in Ibiza to Spanish hotel family

Balearic hotel chain BG Hotels has sold the four-star, 243-room BG Portinatx Beach Club Hotel on the island of Ibiza, Spain, to an undisclosed Spanish family, who reportedly own international hotel businesses. The transaction closed for a reported 60 million (247,000 per room). The all-inclusive hotel is located on the northern coast of the Balearic Island roughly 35 kilometres from its international airport. The hotel closed in Q4 2023 to commence renovations, which aimed to improve the asset to five stars, although were not commenced under BGs ownership, with the new owners expected to carry them out and reposition the asset. Following the sale, BGs portfolio spans six hotels across the Balearics, in Ibiza and Mallorca.

ASG sells Hampton by Hilton in Barcelona to UK family office

Berlin-based private equity firm ActivumSG (ASG) has sold the three-star, 241-room Hampton by Hilton Barcelona Fira Gran Via in Barcelona, Spain, to an undisclosed British family office for 50 million (207,000 per room). The hotel is located in the southwest of Barcelona, in close proximity to the Fira convention centre, which attracted approximately 200,000 visitors in 2023. The hotel opened in 2021 and reportedly cost ASG some 40 million to develop. Upon opening, ASG signed a franchise agreement with Hilton and a long-term operating lease with Dutch white label operator Borealis Hotel Group. ASG has raised four funds to date that are dedicated to real estate opportunities in Germany and Spain. The four total nearly 880 million and are nearing full allocation.

Millennium REIT sells Hotel Eurostars Lucentum in Spain

Spanish REIT Millenium Hospitality Real Estate has sold the four-star, 169-room Hotel Eurostars Lucentum in Alicante, Spain, for 29.9 million (177,000 per room), to an undisclosed buyer. The asset, which is located in the city centre of Alicante, was acquired by Millenium in 2018 and was originally built as the headquarters of the Bank of Alicante, later absorbed by BBVA bank. The hotel, which includes a gym and sauna, five meeting rooms and a breakfast buffet, is operated by Spains Hotusa Group under its Eurostars brand via a fixed-rent agreement until 2025 and a fixed and variable rent agreement from there onwards. According to Millenium, this transaction has generated capital gains in excess of 7 million, exceeding the REITs target.

HVS is the world's leading consulting and valuation services organization focused on the hotel, restaurant, shared ownership, gaming, and leisure industries. Established in 1980, the company performs more than 4,500 assignments per year for virtually every major industry participant. HVS principals are regarded as the leading professionals in their respective regions of the globe. Through a worldwide network of over 50 offices staffed by 300 experienced industry professionals, HVS provides an unparalleled range of complementary services for the hospitality industry. For further information regarding our expertise and specifics about our services, please visit www.hvs.com.
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Hudson, NY (12534)

Today

Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. Low around 35F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph..

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SHES EVERYWHERE! Berklee adds online Taylor Swift Songwriting class

Taylor Swift really is everywhere, including at the venerable Berklee College of Music, whose online school will begin teaching songwriters the secrets of Swifts songwriting success this spring.

by Talia Smith-Muller of Berklee Online

When it comes to Taylor Swifts songwriting, Scarlet Keys can show you incredible things. On May 1 Keys will lead a Masterclass called The Songwriting Secrets of Taylor Swift, a two-hour session that serves as a bite-size online version of the popular course she teaches at the Berklee College of Music campus in Boston. After launching in 2023, the course received media attention, as well as a classroom full of Swifties writing new songs, wearing cardigans, and exchanging friendship bracelets.

Heres this woman writing all of her material, almost every song on every record is a good song, and she has sustained this career, says Keys, who has previously taught artists such as Laufey, Lizzy McAlpine, and Charlie Puth. It was right before the Eras tour, so she wasnt quite ruling the world, but it was right at that moment where I thought, Why dont we have a class at Berklee?

Big Enough So You Cant Hit Me

Keys first became attuned to Taylor Swifts music after hearing her on the radio around the time of her second album. As a mom, the song The Best Day from Fearless was a stand-out. It wasnt until Keys witnessed her daughter using music to cope with friendship breakup where she saw the real power of Taylors songwriting.

On my daughters first day of middle school, her best friend was like, I need my space. And I was like, oh, not the space! And of course, it was devastating, says Keys. And then every morning I would hear Taylor Swifts song, Mean, and I would see how Taylor was, in a sense, taking care of all these little girls and giving voice to their emotions. I was attached from that point.

Capture It Remember It

In a full circle moment, Keys and her daughter got to experience the Eras tour together when Swift played at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA (fortunately, not the infamous rain show the previous night). Keys says she doesnt have a favorite Taylor Swift era because theyre all gold, which doesnt make it easy to narrow down song choices for the Masterclass.

Im looking for teachable moments in a song, says Keys. So obviously in a two-hour class, I only have so much time, so I might pick three to four songs where we analyze whats happening and talk about some of the different techniques that shes using.

Hey Isnt This Easy

One example of a teachable moment is in You Belong with Me, which is also from Fearless.

Shes really painting a picture with concrete language, but the rhythm is so simple in the melody, says Keys. I always say, simple is global. When youre simple as a writer, its more global, because if you write a simple rhythm, its really easy to hand it over to 10,000 people and go, now you sing it.

Keys also highlights Taylor Swifts use of a three-note melisma to create a hook with the words see and me.





It made that average statementwhy cant you see, you belong to meinteresting, says Keys. A melisma is when you take one syllable and you place it against many notes. So me belongs with one note, but for a melisma, theres three. It wouldnt have caught you if it was just one note.

Tortured Poets Department

Swift is releasing her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, on April 19, just a few weeks before Keys Masterclass on May 1. When asked if the new material will make it into the two-hour session, Keys sounds hopeful.

My students are begging me to talk about that album, so probably, but well see what it brings, she says. I have to see what I feel is really teachable, but Im sure theres going to be something.

While the contents of The Tortured Poets Department are still a mystery, it was recently revealed that Swift is related to a famous poet, Emily Dickinson, who is her sixth cousin three times removed. Although the discovery was officially published after this interview, it aligns well with Keyss thoughts about why Taylor Swifts music deserves to be discussed in an educational setting.

Taylor Swift is literally using all the classical developmental techniques and all of the rhetorical devices from literature and writing hit after hit after hit, says Keys. I mean, shes using these techniques so well and effectively that it makes it way more fun to learn these techniques from an artist that youre in love with.

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Chamber Music by Local Composers to be Premiered at Simon's Rock

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass.  A program of chamber music for clarinet, strings, and piano will feature first performances by two Berkshire County composers on Sunday, March 31, at 3:00 p.m. in Kellogg Music Center on the campus of Bard College at Simon's Rock as part of the South Berkshire Concert Series.

Admission to the concert is free of charge.

"To a Child Dancing in the Wind" by Alice Spatz is inspired by the poem of the same title by William Butler Yeats, whose lines are read at the start of each movement. "Klezmer-ish" by Larry Wallach offers personal impressions of this folk-and-jazz form of Jewish music, and features a virtuosic role for the clarinet. Two classics of earlier 20th century music round out the program: a playful "Suite" for clarinet, violin, and piano by Darius Milhaud, and the "Fourth Violin Sonata" of Charles Ives, subtitled "Children's Day at the Camp Meeting," which incorporates nineteenth-century Sunday-school hymns. The performers include clarinetist Sangwon Lee, violinist Ronald Gorevic, violist James Berlin, cellist Anne Legene, and pianist Larry Wallach.

Sangwon Lee

Clarinetist Sangwon Lee joined the Hartford Symphony as Principal Clarinet in 2023. He has performed with orchestras all over New England, which include the Boston Philharmonic, Berkshire Opera Festival, Vermont Symphony, Dartmouth Symphony, New Bedford Symphony, Symphony New Hampshire, etc. As a chamber musician, Sangwon has shared the stage with the late Peter Serkin - performing the Beethoven and the Mozart Quintets for Piano with Winds in multiple performances in 2018. He holds a BM in Clarinet Performance and a BA in Economics from the University of Michigan, an MM in Critical, Curatorial, and Performance Studies from Bard College, and a Graduate Diploma from the New England Conservatory. His teachers include Daniel Gilbert and Thomas Martin. As a member of the New Fromm Players, he participated in last summer's Festival of Contemporary Music at Tanglewood.

Ronald Gorevic

Ronald Gorevic has had a long and distinguished career as both a teacher and performer, on both the violin and viola. He is principal violist of the Springfield Symphony and on the faculties of University of Massachusetts and Smith College. As a violist, he has been a member of several well-known string quartets, spanning over twenty years, and covering most of the quartet repertoire. He has performed the Beethoven cycle twice, and has toured throughout the U.S. Germany, Japan, Korea and Australia. He has been heard on radio stations across the U.S., and has also been broadcast on S. German and S. W. German radio, and on the Australian Broadcast network. With pianist Larry Wallach, he has performed complete sonata cycles of Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms.

James Bergin

James Bergin is a composer, conductor, violist and teacher. His compositions include microtonal and tonal works for chamber ensemble, solo instruments, voice, chorus, piano, and organ. He has been a fellow at the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. From 2006 until its closing in 2018, he was the executive director of the Boston Microtonal Society. He co-founded its chamber ensemble NotaRiotous, dedicated to the performance of microtonal music on traditional instruments, which he conducted from 2006-2017. In 2013 he founded CIAO! (Community Intergenerational Action Orchestra), based in Williamstown, MA. and is an Artist/Teacher at Berkshire Children & Families/Kids4Harmony, an El Sistema-inspired intensive youth music program. Since 2016 he has been the music teacher at Berkshire Arts and Technology Charter School in Adams, MA.

Anne Legene

Anne Legene performs chamber music regularly on cello and viola da gamba with her husband, pianist and harpsichordist Larry Wallach, with harpsichordist Mariken Palmboom, and with her sister, recorder virtuosa Eva Legene. Anne has played with numerous ensembles and

soloists in the Northeast. She teaches cello and conducts the chamber orchestra and the Collegium at Bard College at Simon's Rock, and teaches cello and viola da gamba at her home studio in Great Barrington, MA. Anne studied cello with Jean Decroos, principal cellist of the Concertgebouw orchestra, at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, Netherlands. She earned a Graduate Performance Diploma in Early Music from the Longy School in Cambridge, MA, where she studied viola da gamba with Jane Hershey and baroque cello with Phoebe Carrai.

Larry Wallach

Larry Wallach holds the Livingston Hall Chair in Music at Bard College at Simon's Rock, where he taught for five decades. He is a composer, performer, musicologist, and educator whose interests span the history of Western music up to the present day, with particular focus on baroque and modern repertories. He has published articles about Charles Ives and Johannes Brahms, and as pianist, has performed all the Ives violin sonatas. He was a founding board member of the Berkshire Bach Society. Dr. Wallach's compositions, primarily of chamber music, have been performed across the United States. He has been awarded two "Meet the Composer" grants, and his 1986 composition, "Echoes from Barham Down," won the composition award from the New School of Music in Cambridge MA. He has created works for the Atlantic Sinfonietta, the Da Capo Players, the Housatonic River Festival, the Prometheus Piano Quartet, the New England Conservatory Percussion Ensemble, and the Claflin Hill Symphony. In 2020, his orchestral composition, "Species of Motion," was recorded and released by the Janacek Philharmonic in the Czech Republic for Navona Records, and can be heard on Spotify. It was given its first live performance by The Orchestra Now on March 3 of this year.
Officers Nicholas Lillie, Steven Wandrei, Nannette Reid and Elizabeth Zipp joined the force as full-time officers; Lillie. Reid and Wandrei graduated last Friday from the Police Academy.

North Adams Swears in Four New Police Officers



Assistant City Clerk Melissa Kilbride swears in the new officers on Tuesday night. NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  The city swore in four new police officers during Tuesday night's City Council meeting.

Officers Nicholas Lillie, Steven Wandrei, Nannette Reid and Elizabeth Zipp joined the force as full-time officers; Lillie. Reid and Wandrei graduated last Friday from the Police Academy.

Zipp was a full-time officer in her hometown of Hinsdale for five years. The Wahconah Regional High School graduate earned her bachelor's degree in criminal justice in 2021 and master's degree in justice administration in 2022, both from Faulkner University.

Zipp, who paid her way through the Police Academy, is a forensic interviewer for Berkshire County Kids' Place and part of the county's Domestic Violence Task Force. She is also an emergency medical technician and a task force officer for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Lillie lives in Hancock and graduated from McCann Technical School's machine technology program in 2018. He joined the Army National Guard and currently holds the rank of a specialist E4. He looks forward to being a police officer and is interested in becoming a drug recognition expert.

"I'm very proud that Officer Lillie brought home an award to the city of North Adams for being the most proficient member of the class for both the handgun and rifle fire," said the mayor.

Reid grew up in North Adams and Clarksburg, and studied criminal justice at Bay Path College. She moved on to jobs in customer service and finance, and ran a daycare for 11 years in her Adams home, but had always aspired to a law enforcement career

The mayor said she told a story of listening to the scanner with her father, the city's former Water Department chief Richard Boucher, and telling him that one day she wanted to be a police officer.

"Well Officer Reid, today's your day," she said.

Wandrei, of Adams, graduated from the McCann Tech's automotive program. He worked five years for Pete's Automotive and then moved down the road to Bedard Bros., where he's worked since 2008 as a master mechanic.

He is interested in working with domestic violence survivors as a police officer.

The officers were sworn in by Assistant City Clerk Melissa Kilbride and congratulated by interim Police Chief Mark Bailey and Lt. Anthony Beverly as family members watched from the audience.

"I just want to especially thank the family, friends and everyone who's here tonight to support our officers and especially all of those who supported them through their 23-week journey," said the mayor. "It's not easy, not only for the officers but it's a big commitment from their families. And we appreciate your commitment to the city of North Adams."

She asked the new officers to "never betray your integrity, your character and the public trust. I ask that you always have the courage to hold yourselves and others accountable for their actions."

In other business:

The council heard from neighbors on Walnut Street about the safety issues related to the partial road collapse and from representatives of the Higher Education Coalition about legislation on higher education funding. (These will be covered separately.)

The council confirmed the appointments of John Treski to the Commission on Disabilities, filling the unexpired term of Carrie Crews expiring Dec. 1, 2025, and Michael Meaney to the Parks & Recreation Commission for a term expiring April 1, 2029, and the reappointment of Annette M. Guerino to the Windsor Lake Recreation Commission for a term expiring April 1, 2027.

The mayor read a proclamation in support of Transgender Visibility Day on March 31.

The council unanimously approved a resolution in support of the paint stewardship legislation. Thomas Irwin, a member of the Dalton Green Committee, has advocated for the program throughout the Berkshires. President Bryan Sapienza thanked Irwin for his efforts and said he believed North Adams is the 40th community to signal support.
Strike at Mass MoCA Ends With Contract Vote

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  A three-week strike by unionized staff of Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art has ended with a contract agreed on Tuesday by both sides.

Members of UAW Local 2110 voted Tuesday evening to ratify an agreement that will settle wages for the next two years.

"We are very pleased to have reached an agreement with the Mass MoCA that raises minimum pay rates and improves working conditions," according to statement from the local. "We are looking forward to getting back to the jobs we love."

The contract includes an immediate minimum wage increase to $18 an hour for some 58 percent of the workers, up from $16.25.

The new wages are retroactive to Jan. 1; the union had asked for retroactive wages to October 2023, when talks first began.

Full-time staff will receive general wage increases of 3.5 percent in each of the two years, and some workers will receive additional equity increases based on seniority and level of responsibility, according to the UAW. The average pay will increase by 12.1 percent in the second year.

The new contract also includes additional holiday pay and establishes overtime pay for any shifts that last over 10 hours in a day.

The union, which represents about 125 employees of the museum, went on strike March 6 after five months of talks.

Workers had been outside the museum with signs for weeks as management and volunteers tried to operate the largest contemporary museum in the United States. The strike had affected attendance and restaurants and shops on the sprawling campus.

"Equity and wage increases for Mass MoCA's staff have never been a matter of if, but a matter of how fast," said Director Kristy Edmunds. "The agreement marks another bold precedent that both the union and Mass MoCA desired and worked together to achieve  Mass MoCA's minimum wage will jump to $18 an hour in addition to numerous wage and equity increases.

"Our goal was shared, but our constraints and communication efforts for getting there differed. In our last bargaining session on Sunday, there was authentic, productive cooperation and clarity, which enabled all parties to agree."

The union had been advocating for $18.25 an hour minimum; the museum had most recently counter offered with $17.25, which the union rejected last week.

The agreement comes after eight collective bargaining sessions focused solely on employee wages.

The strain had led museum officials to announce the closure of the museum on Wednesdays through April in addition to the regular Tuesday closure.

Technical, Office and Professional (TOP) Union, Local 2110, part of the United Auto Workers, represents more than 3,000 employees in the education, creative, publishing and law fields.

MoCA hourly workers joined the local in 2021 and held a one-day strike back in 2022 over wages. Organizing at museums and other nonprofit "creative economy" institutions has been on the upswing following the pandemic, rising prices and stagnant wages.
Candida Moss in Time:

It is an unlikely success story. A first century religious leader named Jesus was brutally executed as a criminal in first century Jerusalem. His death should have ended the movement. He left behind him a ragtag group of poorly educated Aramaic-speaking fishermen and craftsmen; men with some street smarts who lacked resources, experience, or connections. And yet, tradition insists, this handful of men seeded the religion that would change the world.

The improbability of Christianitys success has always been part of its rhetorical power; how could this small group of misfits have succeeded against such odds? There is a lengthy intellectual tradition that attempts to explain the expansion, rise, and spread of Christianity from its beginnings in the Galilee to its conquest of the Roman Empire. At least part of the answer, though neglected, is simple: The disciples had help. An overlooked aspect of the famous Road to Damascus story is how dangerous it was. The Apostle Pauls vision of Christ left him in a perilous situation: newly blind and stranded several miles away from sustenance and shelter. It was only with the assistance of those in his entourage that he made it into the city and avoided an unpleasant death from starvation and dehydration. These helpers are almost invisible in the story, but they are critical to Pauls success.

The contributions of invisible assistants go much further than their underappreciated but essential roles as local guides and travelling companions.

More here.
The Philippines Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) industry is proud to announce its recognition as home to some of the Philippines Best Workplaces 2024, honored by Great Place To Work in an awards ceremony at Grand Hyatt Manila last March 19. IT-BPM companies stand out for their excellence in workplace culture.

Among the winners are members of the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP). In the Large Category, among the winners are Synchrony, Accenture, Lexmark Research and Development Corporation, Teleperformance, Capital One, DXC Technology, and CGI Philippines, Inc. For the Medium Category, included in the winners are Via Appia Philippines, Inc., GM Philippines, Inc., Lingaro Philippines, Inc., Amadeus Marketing Philippines, S.C. Johnson Philippines ROHQ, and Thumbtack Shared Services Philippines, Inc. Finally, in the Small Category, among the winners is Limitless Connect PH Inc. In addition to the IBPAP member companies, 11 other IT-BPM firms have also been recognized for their outstanding workplace environments.

The IT-BPM industry embarks on an industry rebranding initiative in line with its vision for future growth and global impact. This strategic move aims to position the industry as a hub of creativity and opportunity, with ambitious goals to make it a $59 billion powerhouse by 2028, generating 2.5 million meaningful jobs. With a strong dedication to nurturing talent and encouraging innovation, the IT-BPM sector welcomes talented individuals seeking fulfilling career opportunities and remarkable workplace experiences. For those eager to learn more and explore career opportunities, IBPAP encourages following its LinkedIn and Facebook official pages.

Jack Madrid, President and CEO of IBPAP, stresses the importance of this initiative, Our industry rebranding aims to highlight the globally impactful and meaningful digital experiences that our 1.7M strong Filipino workforce deliver to our global customers across banking, financial services, technology, healthcare and other verticals.

Madrid adds, Im proud to witness the thriving diversity within the Philippines IT-BPM industry. Our verticals stand as pillars of excellence. As we celebrate our recognition as the Philippines Best Workplaces, I invite skilled Filipino professionals, not just those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), to join us in shaping a future defined by collective success through fostering excellence and innovation.
As the holiday season approaches, the urge to unwind and kick back is natural. And it's all too common for people to let their guard down completely when connecting to the Internet too but shouldnt.

Recently, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group shared their findings on identity theft cases in the country. Between November 2023 and February 2024, they uncovered 178 cases of "hijack profile" incidents. Half of these cases, eighty-nine (89) happened just in February. These cases mirror an upward trend seen throughout 2023, where the PNP recorded almost 3,000 cyber identity theft incidents.

Identity theft occurs when a fraudster obtains personal details from a victim, enabling them to commit identity fraud or fraudulently obtain goods/services. This stolen data can be used to open new bank accounts, take over existing ones, or impersonate the victim for criminal activities.

In 2023, we monitored 26,164,699 web threats attacks in the Philippines, which made the country 4th with the highest web threats attacks globally, and when we looked at it closely, we found out that Filipinos were facing one (1) attack per second. These numbers are a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant at all times, said Yeo Siang Tiong, General Manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky.

Web threats are browser-based attacks used by cybercriminals to spread malware. This includes common dangers like phishing and viruses, along with offline data theft.

To help Filipinos enjoy a peaceful holy week vacation, below are some of Kasperskys recommendations to follow:

General travel tips:

Be skeptical of tantalizing offers Check to make sure your connection is secure before entering any personal information on a website Always check the address bar to make sure you are actually on the website you are supposed to be on Buy tickets and book hotel rooms either from the company directly or through a well-known ticketing or hotel site Do not participate in questionable giveaways Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication wherever possible Checking the address bar is always a good idea, but it may be insufficient; some malefactors know how to fake addresses. So always use a security solution like Kaspersky Premium that scans malicious links.

Avail up to 20% discounts on Kaspersky's consumer solutions like Kaspersky Premium, Plus and Standard for the whole month of March at https://www.kasperskyph.com/.

On protecting your personal data against identity theft:
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Richard Serra, regularly referred to as one of the worlds greatest sculptors, has passed away aged 85.

The American artist died of pneumonia at his home in Long Island, New York on Tuesday (26 March). His death was confirmed by his lawyer John Silberman to the New York Times.

Renowned as the poet of iron, Serra was famous for turning curving walls of rusting steel and other malleable materials into large-scale pieces of outdoor artwork that are now dotted across the world.

Born in California in 1938, to a Spanish father and Russian mother, he originally set out to become a painter before practising with steel at the age of 17.

Serra worked in steel foundries to help finance his education at the Berkeley and Santa Barbara campuses of the University of California, and studied fine art at Yale, graduating in 1964.

In 1970, he began creating site-specific sculptures in Japan, Canada and across the US, using the locations topography to influence the viewers experience.

The whole subject-object relationship is reversed. The content is you! he told The Guardian in 2008. If you dont walk into the work and engage with it, there isnt any content.

Richard Serra has died at the age of 85 (AP2008)

Serras work started to gain attention in 1981, when he installed a 120-foot-long (36.5m) and 12-foot-high (3.6m) curving wall of raw steel that split the Federal Plaza in New York City.

The sculpture, called Tilted Arc, generated backlash with the artist seeing posters with the phrase Kill Serra at the time, and a fierce demand that it should be removed. It was later dismantled after a public hearing, but Serras popularity in the New York art scene had been cemented.

He is known for working with large rusting pieces of steel (REUTERS)

Richard Serra's 'East-West/West-East' in Qatar (Qatar Museum Authority/Rik Van Lent)

In 2014, he installed four 50ft steel towers in the Qatari desert in a project called East-West/West-East.

He toldThe Independent at the time: You just have to present it and see how people react. You cant spoon-feed...

Because to try to force a meaning, to tell them what its supposed to be seems to me futile... You can point them in a direction, but they are going to have to find an experience that they want to return to.
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Gladiator filmmaker Sir Ridley Scott was pictured speaking to police officers behind yellow tape after reportedly being unable to access his Los Angeles home on Monday (25 March).

The Oscar-nominated director, 86, lives in the same neighbourhood as Sean Diddy Combs, 54, whose homes were raided yesterday in connection with a federal sex trafficking investigation.

A statement from Homeland Security said law enforcement actions had been executed as part of an ongoing investigation with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami and our local law enforcement partners.

Combss Los Angeles mansion is in the upmarket Holmby Hills area, near Bel Air and Beverly Hills, where previous residents include Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand and Michael Jackson.

In paparazzi photos published by TMZ, the outlet said Sir Ridley appeared seriously frustrated as police taped off the street near Combss home.

The images show the Napoleon director winding down his car window to speak to someone and then standing on the street speaking to an officer.

Ridley Scott (Getty Images for Sony Pictures UK)

Sir Ridleys representatives did not immediately respond to The Independents request for comment.

Another of Combss properties in Miami Beach, Florida, was also raided on Monday. Lawyers for the rapper and music mogul responded on Tuesday saying there was no excuse for the hostility shown by authorities towards Combss children and staff members at the two properties.

His lawyer Aaron Dyer said: Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr Combs residences.

There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated.

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Law enforcement rides a vehicle near a property belonging to Sean Diddy Combs on Monday, 25 March, 2024. (AP/Getty)

The criminal investigation is a major escalation in the scrutiny of Combs, who has been the defendant in several sexual abuse lawsuits in recent months. Speculation as to his whereabouts has circulated since the raids.

In February, Combs  who is credited with helping launch the careers of artists including Biggie Smalls, Mary J Blige and Usher  was accused of sexual assault by a male music producer who claimed the rapper forced him to sleep with sex workers.

In November of last year, Combss former partner, Casandra Cassie Ventura filed a lawsuit in which she claimed she was trafficked, raped and beaten by the rapper on numerous occasions over the course of 10 years.

Venturas lawsuit was settled a day after she filed it for an undisclosed amount of money.

Another of Diddys accusers is a woman who alleges that he raped her two decades ago, when she was 17 years old.

Combs vehemently denied the allegations. In a statement in December, he called the claims sickening and said his accusers were looking for a quick payday.

Let me be absolutely clear: I did not do any of the awful things being alleged, he said in a statement. I will fight for my name, my family and for the truth.

See all the allegations made against Combs here.
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Pirates of the Caribbean producer Jerry Bruckheimer has confirmed that the franchise will return for a sixth outing.

News of a reboot was first announced in 2019. At the time, it was unclear whether Captain Jack Sparrow star Johnny Depp would be attached to the project; however, he was ruled out of the sequel following his legal battles in 2020 and 2022.

While promoting his new film, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare with its director Guy Ritchie, Bruckheimer was asked about potential reboots for Top Gun (which he also produces) and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Its hard to tell. You dont know, you really dont know, he told ComicBook.com.

Because with Top Gun, you have an actor who is iconic and brilliant [Tom Cruise]. And how many movies he does before he does Top Gun, I cant tell you. But were gonna reboot Pirates, so that is easier to put together because you dont have to wait for certain actors.

In 2020, Depp became embroiled in a defamation case against The Sun over a 2018 article that called him a wife beater, which he ultimately lost.

Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean (Disney/Kobal/Shutterstock)

In 2022, Depp sued his ex-wife Amber Heard in Virginia court for defamation, claiming that she had falsely implied he was abusive towards her in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed titled I spoke up against sexual violence  and faced our cultures wrath. That has to change.

The jury ultimately ruled in favour of Depp, though also found in favour of Heards countersuit, in which she claimed that Depps lawyer had defamed her by describing her abuse allegations as a hoax.

The possibility of Depp returning to the Pirates franchise was the subject of testimony during the trial.

Depp was asked by Heards lawyer: If Disney came to you with $300m dollars and a million alpacas, nothing on this earth would get you to go back and work with Disney on a Pirates of the Caribbean film?

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That is true, Depp answered.

While the legal battle was ongoing, Bruckheimer told The Times that Disney had no plans of bringing Depp back as Captain Jack Sparrow. However, he added, the future is yet to be decided.

Disney executive Tina Newman  in a pre-recorded deposition presented to the court on 19 May  stated that she didnt know one way or another if Depp was still being considered for a role in Pirates 6.

Months after the trials conclusion, Bruckheimer added in a separate interview that he would love Depp to return to the franchise.

I would love to have him in the movie. Hes a friend, a terrific actor, and its unfortunate that personal lives creep into everything we do, he said.

Margot Robbie was at one point attached to lead a Pirates movie, but the actress told Vanity Fair in November 2022 that the project was no longer in development.

Weeks later, Bruckheimer explained: We developed two scripts at once and the Margot Robbie script was a little further away, but well get that made down the line too and focus on more of an ensemble Pirates movie at this point.
Hong Kong: Govt condemns unfounded criticisms

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today strongly disapproved of and condemned the slanders and smears as well as unfounded criticisms made by the International Bar Associations Human Rights Institute (IBAHRI) against the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.

It said such remarks were made with extremely malicious intentions to mislead the international community into believing that the ordinance runs contrary to the fundamental principles of international law, thereby creating a negative impression of the ordinance.

The statement emphasised that as a matter of fact, to effectively prevent, suppress and punish illegal acts endangering national security is precisely to better safeguard the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals and ensure the property and investments in the Hong Kong SAR are protected by law.

Protecting human rights and respecting the principle of the rule of law are the legislative principles of the ordinance and have been included in the provisions.

Article 2 of the ordinance clearly stipulates that human rights are to be respected and protected. The rights and freedoms enjoyed under the Basic Law and the provisions of two international covenants as applied to the Hong Kong SAR are to be protected in accordance with the law.

This means that the rights and freedoms, including the freedoms of speech, of the press and of publication, the freedoms of association, of assembly, of procession and of demonstration, are enjoyed and to be protected in accordance with the law under both the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social & Cultural Rights as applied to the Hong Kong SAR.

The critics not only neglected the provisions as well as the scope of application of the relevant international covenants, but also lashed out and smeared wantonly, fully exposing their malicious intentions to harm Hong Kong.

The offences endangering national security stipulated by the ordinance target acts endangering national security with precision, and define the elements and penalties of the offences with clarity.

The prosecution has the burden to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant has the actus reus and mens rea of an offence before the defendant may be convicted by the court.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said that extraterritorial effect for the offences endangering national security under the ordinance fully aligns with the principles of international law, international practice and common practice adopted in various countries and regions. It is both necessary and legitimate, and is also in line with those of other countries and regions around the world.

It can be seen that the national security laws of various countries, including the US, the UK, Australia, Canada and the European Union Member States, also have extraterritorial effect under the personality principle and the protective principle.

In formulating the extraterritorial effect under the ordinance, the Hong Kong SAR Government has taken into account the principles of international law and international practice of state jurisdiction as well as the nature of the offences. The critics remarks completely displayed their hypocrisy with double standards.

As regards the provisions on application to the court for imposing restrictions on consultation with legal representatives in the light of circumstances of endangering national security under the ordinance, the Hong Kong SAR Government emphasised that the provisions only temporarily delay the arrested persons right to consult legal representatives, and it will not affect the arrested persons right to confidential legal advice in accordance with the law and the choice of legal representatives.

According to the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights, an arrested persons right to consult a legal representative may be temporarily restricted in exceptional circumstances where the government has compelling reasons to do so. Such restriction is permitted under the laws of, for instance, the UK, the EU, the US and Canada. Although the arrested persons right to consult a legal representative is restricted to some extent, the investigating officers must still respect all relevant rights that the arrested person is entitled to under the law, including the right to silence.

Overall, the Hong Kong SAR Government believes that the restriction would not affect the right to a fair trial that the defendant enjoys.

After the ordinance was passed by the Legislative Council unanimously on March 19, members of the public and various sectors of the community welcomed, voiced support and acknowledged that the legislation is the constitutional obligation the Government fulfilled to safeguard national security.

The IBAHRI disregarded the support for the ordinance from members of the public and wantonly attacked. The Hong Kong SAR Government expressed strong disapproval of such unfounded slanders again.

This story has been published on: 2024-03-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
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Beyonce has unveiled the tracklisting for her upcoming album Act II: Cowboy Carter, and as previously rumoured it is set to include a cover of Dolly Partons indelible 1973 country hit Jolene.

Earlier this month Parton spoke to Knox News about Beyonce, saying: I think shes recorded Jolene and I think its probably gonna be on her country album, which Im very excited about that.

The new record is set to be released on 29 March.

The tracklist also refers to Dolly P and Smoke Hour Willie Nelson. It is unclear whether these are references to guest appearances by Parton and her fellow country music icon Nelson. The Independent has reached out to Beyonces representatives for confirmation.

The full list of tracks announced today reads: Ameriican Requiem, Blackbiird, 16 Carriages, Protector, My Rose, Smoke Hour Willie Nelson, Texas Hold Em, Bodyguard, Dolly P, Jolene, Daughter, Spaghetti, Alliigator Tears, Smoke Hour II, Just For Fun, II Most Wanted, Leviis Jeans, Flamenco, The Linda Martell Show, Ya Ya, Oh Louisiana, Desert Eagle, Riiverdance, II Hands II Heaven, Tyrant, Sweet Honey Buckin and Amen.

One notable title is The Linda Martell Show, which seemingly refers to the 82-year-old musical pioneer who became one of the first commercially successful black female artists in country music and the first to play legendary Nashville venue the Grand Ole Opry.

Earlier this month, Beyonce, 42, hit back at critics of her decision to record a new album inspired by country music, saying the criticisms I faced when I first entered this genre forced me to propel past the limitations that were put on me.

In a statement posted to her website, she wrote: Today marks the 10-day countdown until the release of act ii. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of the supporters of TEXAS HOLD EM and 16 CARRIAGES. I feel honored to be the first Black woman with the number one single on the Hot Country Songs chart. That would not have happened without the outpouring of support from each and every one of you. My hope is that years from now, the mention of an artists race, as it relates to releasing genres of music, will be irrelevant.

This album has been over five years in the making. It was born out of an experience that I had years ago where I did not feel welcomedand it was very clear that I wasnt. But, because of that experience, I did a deeper dive into the history of Country music and studied our rich musical archive. It feels good to see how music can unite so many people around the world, while also amplifying the voices of some of the people who have dedicated so much of their lives educating on our musical history.

The criticisms I faced when I first entered this genre forced me to propel past the limitations that were put on me. act ii is a result of challenging myself, and taking my time to bend and blend genres together to create this body of work.

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I have a few surprises on the album, and have collaborated with some brilliant artists who I deeply respect. I hope that you can hear my heart and soul, and all the love and passion that I poured into every detail and every sound.

I focused on this album as a continuation of RENAISSANCEI hope this music is an experience, creating another journey where you can close your eyes, start from the beginning and never stop.

This aint a Country album. This is a Beyonce album. This is act ii COWBOY CARTER, and I am proud to share it with yall!

Beyonce first announced the new album at the same time as surprise releasing two country songs during the Super Bowl, Texas Hold Em and 16 Carriages.
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Theyve got artificial hips, a pacemaker and five kidneys between them, but the all-women trio experiencing a surprise revival in their seventies are raring to go as they prepare to play their first gigs in almost four decades.

Zenana, a rock band who formed in Milton Keynes in 1983, were reunited after a young DJ stumbled upon one of their early singles on vinyl while crate-digging in Cornwall, and began playing it at his club nights around Europe to rave receptions.

Comprising Anita Gabriella Tedder, Penny Griffiths and Ruth Elder, Zenana disbanded in 1987 but have since been signed to a record label and are booked to play a series of shows this summer.

Speaking to The Independent, Tedder explained how she and her brother, Michael, had initially started working on songs together in the early Eighties using his home studio, before she realised she wanted to perform music that was also about empowering women.

After meeting Griffiths and Elder, Zenana  inspired by a Persian word meaning of the women  were formed, and they released their single Witches, a song Tedder says was about women having agency.

That was really a core part of the whole ethos of Zenana, she said, adding: This was long before the Spice Girls I dont think the music industry knew what to do with us.

Zenana in 1986 (Steph Daniels)

Unfortunately, the song died a death and disappeared until two years ago, not long after Tedder and her longterm partner, Steph  the bands manager  threw a party to celebrate their anniversary.

For a lark, the former band ended up digging out an old backing tape for Witches and began to dance to it: All the old moves came back, and we had such fun with it.

The moment happened to take place in front of their friend, Amy Wadge, who is best known for being one of Ed Sheerans go-to songwriters, who also co-wrote Sam Ryders hit Eurovision song, Spaceman!"

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The very next day, as if by fate, by Tedder received a message from the DJ, 24-year-old Kiernan Abbott, who told her that he had been playing Witches in songs around clubs from Paris to Los Angeles.

This prompted DJ Antalheitlager, managing director of Amsterdam-based record label Rush Hour, to offer them a record deal.

Zenana in 2024: Anita, Penny and Ruth (Jean Fitch)

The band are now releasing an EP with an eight-page booklet and remixed versions of their original songs.

Initially I said we were too old, Tedder said of this unexpected foray back into the music industry.

Ruth has a pacemaker and is awaiting a heart operation, Pennys had cancer and her hips replaced, Ive had my hips replaced and Im a kidney down But Ruth said, why dont we, weve got nothing to lose!

Weve been through so much, and so were actually starting rehearsals for live shows. Its a lovely thing at this time in our lives.

Zenana now have three scheduled shows for June and July ahead of their festival appearance at BedGringe on 28 July. The Rush Hour EP of Witches, featuring the extended Bedmo Disco 85 remix, will be released at the end of May.
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Alan Dale has shared his take on the off-screen romance between his The OC co-stars Mischa Barton and Ben McKenzie.

Last month, Barton revealed that she and McKenzie entered into a relationship soon after meeting on the set of the teen drama in the early 2000s.

Barton played the troubled but sweet rich kid Marissa, who was in an on-off relationship with McKenzies fish-out-of-water bad boy Ryan until her shocking departure at the end of season three.

As the youngest member of the core cast, Barton was 17 at the time, while McKenzie was 25.

Dale, who played Marissas stepfather Caleb Nichol on the programme, has spoken out about the revelation of his co-stars relationship, and admitted that hed only recently learned of their connection.

I didnt know about the thing with Ben. I did see that article, and I was a bit disappointed really, he told Metro, before noting that hed picked up on other castmates treating Barton differently.

I did, however, remember that they were already a bit dismissive of her, and the kids, and what I felt about that was  at the time and I still feel  that they were very young.

I mean, they were still only 24/25 but she was 18. You know, so thats a big gap at that age.

Alan Dale, Ben McKenzie and Mischa Barton starred in The OC together (Getty)

Dale, commenting on Bartons feelings towards her former relationship, added: I worry about her future really, because theres no point hanging on to that sort of stuff. Im sorry about that with Mischa.

While featuring on the Call Her Daddy podcast in February, Barton, now 38, spoke about the impact of her and McKenzies romance and how it affected her experience on the show.

I think that kind of set things off on the wrong foot, too, because it was like  you know people hook up on these shows and whatever, these things happen, but it was  we threw ourselves all into it very fast, she explained.

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Barton also noted that after their breakup, she struggled with dealing with personal matters in a professional environment.

I felt overwhelmed and not ready for any of that, she told Cooper. I remember they were like, Mischas disappeared with Ben and shes only 17 and a half, 18, and the producers went to my parents and were like... it was kind of a whole ordeal.

As well as their time spent on The OC, Dale and Barton now share an additional TV credit: since 2023, Barton has starred in the rebooted Australian soap Neighbours, on which Dale played fan favourite Jim Robinson from 1985 to 1993.
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David Simon, the creator of Baltimore-set drama The Wire, has hit out as conspiracy theories related to the collapse of a bridge in the US city.

On Tuesday (26 March), at approximately 1am, a cargo-carrying vessel, called the Dali, crashed into a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which led to the catastrophic accident.

Many questions remain about the collision  with experts saying it may be too early to say exactly what happened  but there are many, including Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene, who are sharing the unfounded suggestion that the accident was a terrorist attack.

Simon, a former Baltimore Sun journalist whose US show The Wire was set in the Maryland city, has angrily tackled these viewpoints directly on social media.

In response to Greenes post, which asked, Is this an intentional attack or an accident?, Simon called the politician a complete sub-moronic pratfall of a human being.

In reply to another person who asked if it was possible the accident had been a terrorist incident, Simon wrote: Its possible that youre a useless s***heel rando on an internet hellsite speculating wildly and without regard to what is already known by authorities in Baltimore.

When a separate person shared the same conspiracy theory on X/Twitter, he wrote: There are already video and radio transmissions online suggesting a series of power failures and loss of steering on the vessel. You can certainly speculate wildly and no one can stop you, but doing so doesnt make you any less the a**hole here.

At the time the collapse occurred, two people were rescued from the water, with one in critical condition and the other rejecting medical attention.

Six construction workers, who were carrying out works on the bridge at the time, fell into the Patapsco River  and the search for them has now been called off.

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The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship (Getty Images)

Coast Guard rear admiral Shannon Gilreath said: Based on the length of time that weve gone in this search, the extensive search efforts that have gone into it and the water temperature, at this point we do not believe we are going to find these individuals alive.
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Russell T Davies says the end of the BBC is undoubtedly on its way.

The Doctor Who showrunner, who oversaw the successful revival of the sci-fi series in the mid-2000s, warned that decline was already setting in and pointed to Disneys involvement in the new series as evidence.

Youve got to look in the long term at the end of the BBC, which is undoubtedly on its way in some shape or form, he said on theThey Like To Watch podcast.

Is Doctor Who going to die then? No! Youve got to prepare for that kind of stuff.

With high-budget productions dominating the market, Davies believes that the BBC is no longer capable of keeping up on its own.

If Disney collapsed tomorrow and we had to go back to making Doctor Who on a normal BBC budget, you know what? Wed all rally round and make it and suddenly the stories would become claustrophobic ghost stories, he said.

However, he believes that Doctor Who needs to be up there with the big hitters.

Davies previously liked social media posts criticising the BBCs release plan (Getty)

His remarks come just days after the producer liked posts complaining about the BBCs release plan for the series.

On 15 March it was revealed that the sci-fi adventure will return for a new outing in May, which will be the first full run of episodes led by new Time Lord star Ncuti Gatwa.

However, the announcement was a bittersweet moment for fans as it was confirmed that new episodes of the series will debut at midnight on BBC iPlayer before airing in its usual time slot on a Saturday night.

The move came after the series struck a deal with Disney+, where new episodes will become available globally at the same time as the UK.
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ITV has announced a new Theresa May documentary will be released in June 2024.

Theresa May: The Accidental PM promises to deliver the most frank and revealing account during the ex-politicians three years as prime minister between 2016-2019.

The documentary announcement comes amidst an exposed chaotic plot by backbench Conservative MPs who want current PM Rishi Sunak to be replaced by Penny Mordaunt before the forthcoming general election.

Theresa May: The Accidental PM will be produced by The Slate Works, an independent production company behind the BBC/Apple TV+ documentary 9/11: Inside the Presidents War Room and BBC Panorama episode Westminsters Toxic Culture.

Theresa Mays documentary is a one-off 60 minute film and will feature appearances from notable advisors and politicians, such as Suella Braverman, Gavin Barwell and Amber Rudd.

Neil Grant, an executive producer at The Slate Works, said: Theresa May has never given access like this before. Full, frank and revelatory, this is a rare insight into power and politics at a time of turmoil, turbulence and betrayal.

May, having taken office following David Camerons resignation after the Brexit referundum in 2016, was Prime Minister during a rocky political period. She oversaw UK Brexit negotiations, faced votes of no confidence and was the head of Government when Donald Trump became President in 2017.

The documentary charts Mays political career from becoming the MP for Maidenhead in 1997 to her post-premiership position as an outspoken backbencher. Earlier in March, the former prime minister announced she will step down as an MP in the next general election, ending her 27-year stint in parliament.

Theresa May announced her resignation from Downing Street in a tearful moment on 24 May 2019 (Yui Mok/PA Wire)

Theresa May: The Accidental PM includes home footage of her husband Phillip, an investment manager, alongside rare achival footage. The film looks at Mays life as a female Prime Minister and the knock-on effects of her premiership still visible today.

Tom Giles, ITVs controller of current affairs, added: We wanted to produce a film that not only provides a vivid insight into a tumultuous period of recent British history, with ramifications that are still continuing, but that explores a woman who became a leading figure in British politics.

The documentary is produced and directed by Sam Collyns, whose work on a range of factual productions recently include 2023 documentary Hooded Men: Britains Torture Playbook for the BBC.

ITV have saidTheresa May: The Accidental PM is due to air in June.
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Viewers have been reacting to Kate Garraways heartbreaking documentary Dereks Story, which focused on the final year of her husband Derek Drapers life.

The 60-minute documentary aired on ITV on Tuesday night (26 March), and included rare footage of Draper directly addressing the camera.

The former political lobbyist and husband of broadcaster Good Morning Britain anchor Garraway died in January aged 56, nearly four years after becoming seriously ill with Covid in 2020. Draper spent more than a year in the hospital after his infection and lived with the effects of long Covid for the rest of his life.

The documentary included heartbreaking footage of Garraway discussing what she said to her husband following the heart attack that led to his death.

I sat down with him, holding his hand, said Garraway. I just said to him: Look, you know me, Im gonna fight this all the way, but if you cant fight anymore, and actually what you need now is peace then dont think about us. Were going to be fine, because I do feel like an awful lot of what hes done has been about wanting to be there, to be a dad and be a husband. Its a different kind of love than we had before, but it was love.

Even though it was chaotic, and crazy, and you know, a slog, an absolute slog. In the midst of all that was this family. Ive just got to try and hold on to that. Ive just said well, well stick with it to the end.

Kate Garraway at Derek Drapers bedside in Dereks Story (ITV)

Across social media viewers reacted to Garraways grief and the strength she showed in caring for her late husband.

On X/Twitter, one wrote: Feeling emotionally wrung out after watching [Dereks Story]. What a brilliant programme with so much raw anger and pain. Social care needs to change. So much respect for Kate Garraway and family. RIP Derek.

Another added: How anyones heart could not go out to Kate Garraway watching this documentary is beyond me. So what if shes well paid. I bet shed rather live in a council house in Stockport and still have her husband.

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A third said: Seeing how the reality of care takes its toll on families is heartbreaking Kate Garraway and seeing how much Derek wanted a fairer world is such a bitter irony. I hope this country can be more caring at all levels for all of us

Early in the film, Garraway admitted that although she has a well-paid job, she is in debt from the costs of her late husbands care.

The TV presenter said that Drapers care cost more than her salary, and thats before you pay for any bill.

Im not going to pretend that Im poorly paid. I have an incredible job that I love, which is well paid. But its not enough. Dereks basic care is nearly 4,000 per week. And how can I afford that? How can anyone afford 16,000 per month?

I am in debt and I cant earn enough to cover my debt because I am managing Dereks care, she said in footage recorded before Drapers death.

Garraway went on to praise the extraordinary carers who had worked with Draper and her family, but said they are working to meet an impossible need.

We are entirely reliant on extraordinary carers but the system in which they work in unbelievably complicated; unbelievably underfunded. And trying to meet an impossible need.

The system we have at the moment in terms of supporting people, and there are millions of people in situations like Derek is  for many other reasons than Covid  it doesnt allow you to feel content because you dont know whether things are going to be stripped away.

Garraway criticised the classic postcode lottery system in place, which decides which families receive financial support.
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A Japanese nappy manufacturing company has announced that it is switching from producing diapers for babies to adults amid concerns over the countrys ageing population.

Oji Holdings, primarily a pulp and paper company, said it will stop manufacturing childrens nappies in September due to a sharp decline in demand.

The sale of baby diapers dipped from a peak of about 700 million in 2001 to 400 million this year.

The target demographic shift came as the birth rate stood at a record low while the population of old people continued to grow. Over the past decade, deaths have consistently exceeded births in Japan, presenting an increasingly complex challenge for the countrys leadership.

Japan recorded 758,631 births in 2023, marking a decline of 5.1 per cent from the previous year, according to government records. It was the lowest birth record in Japan since the 19th century when around two million children were born in the 1970s.

Oji Holdings said its subsidiary Oji Nepia will continue the production of baby diapers in Malaysia and Indonesia where the demand has continued to grow, unlike Japan.

The spokesperson of the company said the company will boost production of sanitary products for older people and they expect the products to be used in nursing homes, old age homes and other public facilities.

Demand for baby diapers is decreasing due to several factors, including the falling birthrate, the spokesperson said.

Children under the age of 15 accounted for less than 12 per cent of the population of the country in 2022, according to public broadcaster NHK. Those aged 65 and over made up almost 30 per cent of the population in the same year.

The current population of 125 million is projected to decline to approximately 88 million by 2065, marking a 30 per cent decrease over the span of 45 years.

In January last year, prime minister Fumio Kishida issued a dire warning about the countrys population crisis and said it was on the brink of not being able to maintain social functions due to the falling birth rate. He said the issue needed to be solved now or never, and that it simply cannot wait any longer.

In thinking of the sustainability and inclusiveness of our nations economy and society, we place child-rearing support as our most important policy, he said.

In response to the escalating labour shortage and as part of efforts to reignite a sluggish economy, the Japanese government has been actively promoting the reintegration of elderly citizens and stay-at-home mothers into the workforce over the past decade.
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Chinese officials have asked Pakistans government for an urgent investigation into the killings of five of its nationals in a suicide attack in Balochistan.

At least six people, including five Chinese nationals, were killed in northwest Pakistan after a suicide bomber rammed a vehicle into a convoy of engineers working on a dam project in the region.

"The Chinese embassy and consulates in Pakistan have immediately launched emergency work, demanding that the Pakistani side conduct a thorough investigation into the attack, severely punish the perpetrators, and take practical and effective measures to protect the safety of Chinese citizens," the Chinese embassy in Pakistan said in a statement.

It also warned Chinese citizens in Pakistan to stay abreast of the situation and strengthen security measures.

The embassy said China will work more resolutely with Pakistan to do its utmost to maintain the security of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions in Pakistan.

This is the third such attack on Chinese officials and positions in Pakistan. The previous two attacks targeted a Pakistan naval air base and a strategic port used by China in the southwest province of Balochistan where Beijing is investing billions in infrastructure projects.

Pakistani authorities said they will now perform DNA testing on the remains of the suicide bomber who attacked the Chinese engineers. China is also expected to send its own experts to the attack site for an independent investigation along with a joint probe with Pakistan.

Pakistani officials said they shared the latest investigation developments with their Chinese counterparts.

In Tuesdays attack, the Chinese engineers were returning from Islamabad and were en route to their camp at the dam construction site in Dasu in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, regional police chief Mohammad Ali Gandapur said.

"Five Chinese nationals and their Pakistani driver were killed in the attack," Mr Gandapur said.

A major dams site, Dasu was previously attacked in 2021 and has remained under terrorist threat in Pakistan.

Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif went to the Chinese embassy on Tuesday afternoon after the attack and offered condolences to the victimss families and the Chinese government.

He is expected to visit Beijing next week, marking his first official visit after coming to power in February.

No one has claimed responsibility for the attack yet. Pakistan is home to twin insurgencies  one by Islamists and the other by ethnic militants.

Islamists mostly operate in Pakistans northwest, the area where the convoy was attacked.

However, the Talibans off-shoot in Pakistan, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), denied being behind the attack in a statement Wednesday, saying: We are in no way related to the attack on the Chinese engineers.

The multiple attacks threaten Chinas trusting alliance with Pakistan as the nation has continued to offer Islamabad support monetarily and diplomatically.

China also sends engineers to Pakistan on a number of projects as Beijing invests over $65bn in infrastructure works as part of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) under Beijings wider Belt and Road initiative.
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A year ago on Wednesday, prominent Afghan educator Matiullah Wesa was abducted from a mosque by the Taliban, tortured and taken to a facility run by the Islamist groups intelligence and security agency. He would spend the next seven months incarcerated.

Wesas only offence was becoming too popular online, with viral social media posts celebrating his door-to-door campaign promoting education for girls in the crisis-hit country. The Taliban has enforced a brutal misogynist regime in Afghanistan, banishing women and girls from schools, offices and public spaces, since taking control of the country by force in August 2021.

The Taliban finally let Wesa go in October last year, but only after a sustained campaign on his behalf by the UN, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and several other international institutions, as well as celebrities including Angelina Jolie.

Wesa, one of the last pro-education activists in the country, has now recovered from the physical wounds suffered in his time in Taliban detention but his fear of the countrys hardline Islamist rulers remains.

Before the Taliban took him away, Wesa was heading a grassroots collective called PenPath. Along with 3,000 aides and volunteers, he toured the length and breadth of Afghanistan with a single message: let your daughters and sons study if you want Afghanistan to prosper.

The Taliban were irked that Wesas focus was specifically on girls education. Afghanistan under the Taliban remains the only country in the world to ban girls and women from attending schools and colleges.

Wesa during an outreach programme in a secret school inside rural Afghanistan before the Taliban arrested him (Sourced: The Independent)

A source close to Wesa described how he endured various forms of physical assault during the seven months in detention, where his condition rapidly deteriorated. It took him months to fully recover from the torture.

They told him: You started negative propaganda against the Taliban because you started secret schools, protest meetings and advocated for womens and girls schools and universities, and their human rights, the source, who requested anonymity for fear of a Taliban backlash, told The Independent.

The 32-year-old was treated inhumanely throughout his time in prison, the source said, reluctant to go into the details of exactly how he was tortured amid concern at the possibility of further Taliban recriminations against Wesa and his family.

No visitor was allowed to meet Wesa. He didnt even have a solicitor or legal representative to fight his case. He was imprisoned for simply educating girls and spreading PenPaths campaign, they said.

When the Taliban came to power they initially promised to operate the country differently from their first reign of terror between 1996 and 2001. But they have since offered few human rights concessions. And behind the barred doors of the Talibans prisons, cases of torture have been rife and continue to this day, the source said, citing Wesas experience.

When Wesa was arrested his brother and PenPath co-founder Ataullah Wesa was forced to flee the country. It fell to Kabul-based volunteer Nigehat Aaram, aged just 26, to take the decision overnight to cease PenPaths activities.

We were actually very terrified and shocked. We knew of the extreme threats of opposing the Talibans anti-education stance but isnt education a global right? We expected the international communitys support in the worst-case scenario to prevent his arrest, Aaram told The Independent over a phone call.

All governments in Afghanistan since PenPaths inception in 2009 have encouraged and supported Wesa, she said. The Taliban should have encouraged him as well.

The activist preparing posters for his girls education campaign in Afghanistan (Sourced: The Independent)

As well as opposing the groups backward policies, Wesas personal popularity also clearly angered the Taliban, another volunteer said.

Hollywood star Jolie called for Wesas release in August last year, pushing her millions of followers to clamour for information regarding his whereabouts and safe legal representation.

I know that you have dedicated over a decade of your life to helping Afghan children, particularly in rural areas, to have access to books and the means and the opportunity to go to school... I add my voice, with humility, to those of everyone calling for your release, so that you can continue your important work, and for the lifting of all restrictions on education for girls, she posted on her Instagram account.

Malala Yousafzais father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, who has also actively campaigned for womens right to education, called Wesa the Bacha Khan of Afghanistan. Bacha Khan was a freedom fighter who fought the countrys British colonial leaders for womens rights and education.

After his arrest, however, PenPath asked all its volunteers to erase their social media presence. That silence has continued since Wesas release in October, as those associated with the organisation face the ever-present threat of a Taliban backlash.

After Wesas arrest, Pen Paths campaigns and almost all our activities were stopped. A year later, still the situation is the same, said PenPath volunteer Asma Khan (we have changed her name to protect her identity).

In spite of all that has happened, there are some PenPath volunteers who still operate undaunted, discreetly continuing to run their missions at great risk to their lives and their families.

We are somehow keeping around 43 secret schools with 400 teachers open, as we continue to spread our messages among village elders and rural families, Aaram told The Independent.

There are logistical nightmares of ferrying our books from a mobile library to these remote villages in secret but we are managing, she said.

The Taliban has banned us completely, but well continue our online and secret schools. We will be searching for other options, some scholarships for volunteers and in touch with the international community, she added.

But one fear haunts hundreds of Wesas volunteers like Aaram. The Taliban is not going to soften towards us, or Wesa. He will face another arrest if we dont toe the line.

Matiullahs arrest and the continued intimidation of PenPath are seen as part of a bigger plan by the hardline regime to keep women out of education and the workforce. This confirms the Taliban is never going to open schools for girls and women, Aaram says.
Hong Kong: News report on security law refuted

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today strongly condemned a BBC report on remission of sentence under the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and the fact-twisting remarks by anti-China organisations and wanted persons absconded overseas.

In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said that no matter whether before or after the ordinance comes into effect, the granting of early release is never a necessary right to prisoners.

It is the Commissioner of Correctional Services duty to strictly enforce any prison sentence imposed by the court on each prisoner and any discretion to grant early release of prisoners must be exercised in accordance with the law, the statement added.

There have been cases in which prisoners convicted of offences endangering national security absconded or continued to carry out acts and activities endangering national security when they were granted early release under supervision.

To safeguard national security and protect the public, it is necessary to impose more stringent restrictions on the granting of early release to prisoners involved in offences endangering national security.

The arrangement will not change the sentences imposed by the court on those who have committed offences endangering national security, and as such, it is not a question of whether it will in effect increase the sentences.

The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance makes amendments to the Post-Release Supervision of Prisoners Ordinance and the Post-Release Supervision of Prisoners Regulation.

If a prisoner serves a sentence in respect of their conviction of an offence endangering national security, the Commissioner of Correctional Services must not refer the case to the Post-Release Supervision Board for consideration, unless the commissioner is satisfied the prisoner's early release will not be contrary to the interests of national security.

The ordinance also makes amendments to the Prison Rules, providing that if a prisoner serves a sentence in respect of their conviction of an offence endangering national security, the prisoner must not be granted remission unless the commissioner is satisfied their being granted remission will not be contrary to the interests of national security.

The relevant requirements are applicable to all prisoners serving their sentences in respect of their convictions of offences endangering national security, irrespective of whether they were sentenced before, on or after the effective date of the amendments.

The enforcement of sentences has always been under the purview of the executive authorities. The Commissioner of Correctional Services will enforce the relevant provisions and exercise discretion in strict accordance with the power vested by the law after taking into account the actual circumstances and all related factors of each case, including representations by the persons in custody, in order to ensure all cases are fairly dealt with.

The Hong Kong SAR Government noted that the BBC has cited accusations by anti-China organisations while turning a blind eye to the UKs Terrorist Offenders (Restriction of Early Release) Act 2020, which tightens the threshold for eligibility for the parole of offenders convicted of terrorist offences.

The BBC has demonstrated complete double standards and the Hong Kong SAR Government strongly condemns this, the statement added.

This story has been published on: 2024-03-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
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Claims by eco-friendly toilet roll companies about their products have been called into question after testing.

The consumer champion Which? said it carried out fibre-composition testing on five popular brands, which claim their rolls are bamboo only or 100% bamboo.

The study found that samples from Bumboo, Naked Sprout and Bazoo contained very low or low levels of bamboo-like grass fibres  2.7%, 4% and 26.1% respectively.

Instead, it found that the toilet papers were mainly composed of less eco-friendly fast-growing virgin hardwoods  mostly eucalyptus.

Bamboo is a fibre often touted as a green alternative to virgin paper due to its fast growth, although it can be linked to unsustainable uses of pesticides and fertilisers, as well as unsustainable conversion of forests if uncertified.

Some acacia, which has been linked with deforestation in countries like Indonesia, were also found in Bazoo and Bumboos paper.

However, the two other brands  Who Gives a Crap (WGAC) and The Cheeky Panda  were shown to contain 100% bamboo as claimed.

Emily Seymour, Which? sustainability editor, said: Given so many shoppers are taking steps to be more sustainable, its vital they can trust claims made by brands  particularly when they are paying more for a product they believe is better for the environment.

Businesses must take responsibility for ensuring their products contain what they say on the packaging so that shoppers who want to make sustainable choices can trust the information they are given.

Which? said its testing was done at an independent lab using an industry-standard test from the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI), known as T 401, which breaks down a sample of paper into its constituent fibres to quantify and identify them.

While the consumer watchdog did not assess brands supply chains, it said the test findings highlight the challenges UK firms face to ensure quality control when materials for their products are sourced thousands of miles away.

Bumboo, Bazoo and Naked Sprout, which all source their bamboo material from China, said they use bamboo certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)  an international non-profit that certifies responsibly-managed timber supply chains.

Dried bamboo sits at Kitara Farm near Mbarara, Uganda

A spokesperson for Bumboo said it had identified an issue in (its) supply chain and taken swift action so this can never happen again.

Any affected customers have been contacted and we are increasing our fibre testing, so every batch is independently verified, they added.

This will provide complete transparency that all future products are 100% bamboo.

The brand said it was now using the gold standard TAPPI T 401 test to verify the fibre composition of every batch and publishing the results on its website.

Meanwhile, Bazoo said it undergoes extensive auditing with the FSC every six months since it started trading.

It was very important to us and integral to find a bamboo supplier and manufacturer who was 100% FSC certified, a spokesperson said.

The firm added it is investigating currently with the FSC body and its manufacturer in depth after the Which? findings.

Naked Sprout claims it is selling the UKs most sustainable tissue products, but Which? said this claim is largely based on its fossil-free B Corp-certified manufacturing, meaning it meets high social and environmental standards.

The brand said that the bamboo pulp it uses is verified by a strict audit trail, also used by the FSC, of its supply chain and raw materials.

It said its supply chain is deliberately small, consisting of only four suppliers and one manufacturer.

As a result, all materials used are FSC-certified and fully traceable from raw material to end product, the firm added.

Naked Sprout also claimed there were limitations with TAPPI T 401 and disputed the objectivity and validity of the test method.

But Which? said the test is a globally-recognised industry benchmark, adding it believes the clear results leave little room for doubt.

TAPPI said it saw no contradictions in Which?s application of the test method, adding that it seems disingenuous to suggest that a test method applied successfully to other brands tested for this article would be inadequate for Naked Sprout.

An FSC spokesperson said: We take our integrity seriously and are committed to working with the organisations involved to ensure this is fully investigated and any appropriate action taken to ensure FSC labels accurately reflect the composition of FSC-certified products.

The FSC said it was concerned by the Which? test results and had alerted its supply chain integrity team.
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Joey King has opened up about the best parts of marriage to her husband Steven Piet.

After the actress and director tied the knot in Mallorca, Spain, in September 2023, The Kissing Booth star is reflecting on various aspects of married life.

I need to find better words for this because people keep asking me like: Whats changed? Whats the best part? King said in an interview with E News alongside one of her movie costars, Sam Woolf.

I know I sound dumb, but Im literally like: Being married - its the best part.

King was asked if there was anything specific about her marriage that she enjoyed more than other parts, to which she revealed that nothing came to mind.

I will say to Steven quite often, Im like: I love being married to you. Its so fun, she said. But I dont know how to encapsulate what I mean by that. Its just the vibe. Vibes are great.

The Bullet Train actress jokingly added, Get married for the vibes. Its worth it.

When the couple first announced that they got married, fans were over the moon. According to People, the ceremony took place on 2 September 2023.

Five days before the ceremony, King posted an Instagram slideshow of photos with Piet in Portugal.

In the series of photos, the two could be seen embracing each other, with the blurred lights of a Portuguese city behind them. Love is cool! Love is grand! Love is kissing in front of the Fonte dos Amores and having too many caipirinhas together, King captioned the post.

Kings followers immediately gushed over the happy couple, as they sent the pair love with heart-shaped emojis. One fan wrote, Love you two!! while another added: All you need is LOVE!

Im so happy for you, one follower commented.

The Kissing Booth star met Piet on the set of the Hulu original series, The Act, in 2018, when he directed two episodes. In March 2022, King announced they were engaged with a poignant post on Instagram.

I never knew happiness could be so powerful that it can take the air from your lungs, overwhelming every part of you that you cant help but feel your eyes well from the undeniable joy, King captioned her post at the time, which showed the couple kissing after Piet popped the question.

The date was 2/2/22 when you asked me to marry you and made me the luckiest lady alive. I love you more than an Instagram caption could ever do justice. Hanging out with you forever sounds like a real dream, so lets do it, she continued. I never knew that a persons presence and heart could feel like a real home. I never knew love could be so unquestionably beautiful. I never knew until you.
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Midsize SUVs with two rows of seating are an excellent option if you want something a little bigger than the ubiquitous small SUV. They have room for five and plenty of storage space but also are less expensive and easier to park than three-row SUVs. Among the available models, the Honda Passport and Jeep Grand Cherokee are worthy ambassadors.

Each delivers the SUV attributes people love, such as a commanding view of the road and all-terrain prowess. But which one is the better buy? Edmunds  car experts compare them to find out.

ENGINES AND FUEL ECONOMY

Under the hood of the Passport is a 280-horsepower V6 that scoots you through traffic and makes easy work of highway merges. During testing, Edmunds noted its punchy acceleration that made it among the quickest in its class.

The Jeep technically holds the horsepower advantage courtesy of its 293-horsepower V6. However, Edmunds noted its acceleration is more leisurely. The Grand Cherokees 0-60 mph sprint required about 8.0 seconds in Edmunds testing versus 6.8 seconds in the Passport.

Jeep does offer the Grand Cherokee with a more powerful 375-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain called the 4xe. Yet its starting price of about $60,000 is more than $20,000 higher than the base V6 Grand Cherokee, and this pushes it into direct competition with luxury-badged rivals from the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Also, considering Jeep is known for its outdoorsy image, its ironic the Passport is the one that comes with all-wheel drive as standard. In the Grand Cherokees lower trims adding all-wheel drive costs an additional $2,000.

When it comes to performance at the fuel pump, this is pretty much a wash. The Grand Cherokee with four-wheel drive gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined, compared to 21 mpg combined in the Passport.

Winner: Honda Passport

DRIVING AND COMFORT

Both the Passport and Grand Cherokee inspire confidence in the driver thanks to their easy steering and strong brakes. They are also pretty comfortable, though Edmunds found the Grand Cherokee has a slight edge. It rides more smoothly over bumps, and its front seats are a little more supportive and comfy for long drives.

Also to the Jeeps advantage is its dual-purpose nature; its equally at home on paved surfaces or when venturing off-road. The Passport TrailSport trim provides a decent amount of all-terrain capability but its not quite up to the potential of the Grand Cherokee.

Winner: Jeep Grand Cherokee

UTILITY AND TOWING

The Passport has 41.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats, which is pretty good for a midsize SUV. The Grand Cherokee trails it a bit at 37.7 cubes. Edmunds has also found its a little easier to load heavy items into the Passport because of its lower cargo floor.

The Grand Cherokee counters with superior towing capability, however. Its rated for a maximum of 6,200 pounds when properly equipped, compared to the Passports 5,000 pounds. An available towing package includes helpful features such as a Class IV trailer hitch, a load-leveling rear suspension and heavy-duty engine cooling.

Winner: tie

FEATURES AND VALUE

Edmunds found the quality and design of the Passports cabin to be exceptional; everything looks good and feels built to last. While its starting price is a little above the norm for two-row midsize SUVs, the number of standard features in the Honda helps offset the premium.

Inside theres an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Edmunds experts came away impressed by the Hondas easy-to-reach controls and generous lineup of standard driver aids like rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot warning.

The Grand Cherokee also ticks many of the right boxes when it comes to its interior design and extensive comfort and safety features. Its infotainment system is bigger than the Passports and one of the best thanks to its clear menus and crisp graphics.

Problems arise when scaling up to higher trim levels. The Grand Cherokees price spread is so vast, Edmunds questioned whether SUV shoppers might be inclined to simply opt for a luxury-badged competitor. Granted, niceties like massaging front seats and a booming 19-speaker McIntosh surround-sound stereo are beyond what the Passport offers. Except the Grand Cherokee comes off as providing more icing, whereas the Passport is the better cake.

Winner: Honda Passport

EDMUNDS SAYS

The Grand Cherokee provides the utility youd expect from a Jeep SUV. It can also be impressively luxurious in its most expensive trim levels. But the Honda Passport is the better all-around choice. It does nearly everything the Jeep does but at a substantially lower price.

_______

This story was provided to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds.

Nick Kurczewski is a contributor at Edmunds.
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Books about the dizzying impact of the internet and artificial intelligence are among finalists for a new book prize that aims to help fix the gender imbalance in nonfiction publishing.

The shortlisted six books for the inaugural Womens Prize for Nonfiction, announced on Wednesday, include Canadian author-activist Naomi Kleins Doppleganger, a plunge into online misinformation, and British journalist Madhumita Murgias Code-Dependent: Living in the Shadow of AI.

The 30,000 pound ($38,000) award is a sister to the 29-year-old Womens Prize for Fiction and is open to female English-language writers from any country in any nonfiction genre.

The finalists also include autobiographical works  poet Safiya Sinclairs How to Say Babylon: A Jamaican Memoir and British art critic Laura Cummings Thunderclap: A Memoir of Art and Life and Sudden Death.

Rounding out the list are British author Noreen Masuds travelogue-memoir A Flat Place, and Harvard history professor Tiya Miles All That She Carried, a history of American enslavement told through one Black familys keepsake.

British historian Suzannah Lipscomb, who is chairing the judging panel, said that the readers of these books will never see the world  be it through art, history, landscape, politics, religion or technology  the same again.

The winners of both nonfiction and fiction prizes will be announced at a ceremony in London on June 13.

The prize was set up in response to a gender imbalance in the book world, where men buy more nonfiction than women  and write more prize-wining nonfiction books

The company Nielsen Book Research found in 2019 that while women bought 59% of all the books sold in the United Kingdom, men accounted for just over half of adult nonfiction purchases.

Prize organizers say that in 2022, only 26.5% of nonfiction books reviewed in Britains newspapers were by women, and male writers dominated established nonfiction writing prizes.
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Lawmakers in Thailand's lower house of Parliament overwhelmingly approved a marriage equality bill on Wednesday that would make the country the first in Southeast Asia to legalize equal rights for marriage partners of any gender.

The bill passed its final reading with the approval of 400 of the 415 members of the House of Representatives who were in attendance, with 10 voting against it, two abstaining and three not voting.

The bill amends the Civil and Commercial Code to change the words men and women and husband and wife to individuals and marriage partners. It would open up access to full legal, financial and medical rights for LGBTQ+ couples.

The bill now goes to the Senate, which rarely rejects any legislation that passes the lower house, and then to the king for royal endorsement. This would make Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to pass such a law and the third in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal.

Danuphorn Punnakanta, a spokesperson of the governing Pheu Thai party and president of a committee overseeing the marriage equality bill, said in Parliament that the amendment is for everyone in Thailand regardless of their gender, and would not deprive heterosexual couples of any rights.

For this law, we would like to return rights to the (LGBTQ+ group). We are not giving them rights. These are the fundamental rights that this group of people  has lost, he said.

Lawmakers, however, did not approve inclusion of the word parent in addition to father and mother in the law, which activists said would limit the rights of some LGBTQ+ couples to form a family and raise children.

Thailand has a reputation for acceptance and inclusivity but has struggled for decades to pass a marriage equality law.

The new government led by Pheu Thai, which took office last year, has made marriage equality one of its main goals.
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A group of Royal Navy sailors have been arrested on suspicion of stealing iPads, video games and laptops to order before selling them.

The seven sailors were led away from their ship the HMS Middleton in handcuffs after being accused of raiding a duty-free electronics store on a US military base in Bahrain.

The group, which includes a chef and a communications officer, allegedly used security alarm-proof bags to snatch the items.

A source told The Sun: Some were arrested by American armed military police when they were caught taking items out of the American shops on the base.

Military police took the rest of the lads off the ship in cuffs.

They added: It looked like they stole anything that wasnt locked down  iPads, laptops, computer games.

A Royal Navy spokesperson told The Independent: We can confirm an alleged incident is under investigation.

As this is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further nor provide a timeline to when a conclusion can be provided.
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The landlord of the building which hosts Banksys latest tree mural has said he erected a giant plastic sheet over the artwork to deter idle vandalism.

Neighbours and tourists in Finsbury Park have complained the plastic sheeting destroys the elusive artists vision, and he wouldnt want his work seen in a prison.

Islington Council workers were seen erecting a wooden fence after vandals struck in the night, splashing the Banksy with two huge licks of white paint last week.

There were fears that the crumbly north London estate was chosen by Banksy specifically because the plaster was falling away making the piece ephemeral - perhaps a nod to The Girl With The Balloon, which famously self-destructed after fetching $1.4 million at Sothebys.

A giant plastic sheet has now been placed over the artwork (Getty Images)

But Alex Georgiou, of family-run estate agents Alex Marks who own the property, told The Independent: Were not so worried about the plaster degrading but more the idle vandals.

He laughed when he heard a reported 19 million price tag had been slapped on the block since Banksy unveiled his ecological mural.

He added: Do you think its worth 19 million? Listen, if you find someone who is willing to pay that much - we will take it.

His brother Anthony told The Independent previously: This is a property we have owned for a long time and theres no reason we have to do anything with it. Just because Banksy decided to put up some graffiti... we are just working, getting on with it.

Its great for Hornsey Road and has really put it on the map.

The boards have been erected around the Banksy in Finsbury Park (Aaron Chown/PA Wire)

Guley Polat, who travelled to see the mural from Germany, arrived to discover the plastic covering and boards.

She told BBC Radio: Its very sad. What I see is a disaster. I dont like it.

It seems like we are in prison. I think Banksy doesnt want to have his street art in a prison.

The Banksy artwork before the hoarding was put up (AP)

The elusive artists mural drew crowds when it was unveiled, with most struck by the ecological message and visual allusion of green leaves returned to a severely cropped cherry tree on Hornsey Road, north London.

But just one night later other graffiti artists silently clambered over the hastily erected fences to write their tag in the same green as Banksy, and throw white paint over the leaves.

The boarding and sheeting follow temporary measures put in place by Islington Council, including fencing and regular checks from park patrol officers to manage crowds and help protect the artwork.

An Islington Council spokesperson said: We want everyone to feel safe at home and we take reports of anti-social behaviour seriously.

The new security measures at Christie Court have been installed in direct response to concerns raised by tenants over the last week about crowds gathering and the disruption this is causing to their lives.

We are committed to working with our communities to tackle anti-social behaviour. We encourage residents to report it to us and we welcome conversations to help us solve it.
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A marine biologist has revealed raw sewage being dumped in the English Channel has left every marine species in the water full of cocaine, amphetamines and MDMA.

Traces of the drug routinely make their way into Britains waters after passing through users bodies, and could be altering the natural behaviour of some fish including whether they fight or take flight from danger.

Professor Alex Ford, working alongside Dr Tom Miller of Brunel University, has been investigating the impact of one huge sewage pipe in Hampshires Langstone Harbour which carries the waste of some 400,000 Portsmouth residents.

Professor Alex Ford has warned about the state of UK oceans (ITV/Good Morning Britain)

He told The Independent: I was shocked when I saw the readings to be honest.

These are unpublished results but so far we have tested crabs, shrimp, oysters, limpets, worms and seaweed.

We thought [cocaine] would make shrimp swim quicker but its hard to compare to other creatures.

Shrimp being experimented on (Helen Yates)

We dont know the full effect of it entering the water cycle, unfortunately. Many of these organisms will be exposed to a wide spectrum of different prescribed and illegal drugs.

He insisted the drugs are in such small traces that they wouldnt be able to kill an aquatic creature by overdose but the drugs, especially cocaine, amphetamines and MDMA, could alter their behaviour.

He added: We dont really know the full effects of cocaine on behaviour change but studies using other behavioural altering drugs such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety meds can cause changes in a wide variety of behaviours including swimming activity, reproductive behaviours and predatory escape responses.

There are growing concerns about the amount of sewage being dumped in UK waterways (Getty)

He added: Some industrial chemicals like the forever chemicals in our frying pans and waterproof stain-proof clothing are bioaccumulating up the food chain.

One Australian study predicted duck-billed platypus were getting 60 per cent human equivalent dose of antidepressants through eating stream invertebrates.

In the marine life, we are finding they are full of drugs  contraceptive pills, antidepressants  every single marine species that weve looked at so far is full of cocaine.

Professor Alex Ford, working alongside Dr Tom Miller of Brunel University (Helen Yates)

If you give a fish contraceptive pill it starts to feminise, if you give crabs antidepressants it changes their behaviour because those drugs were designed to change behaviour.

If you give them illegal drugs as well, it has very much the same effect it has on them as it would do on people.

The professor called for a full public inquiry into the actions of water companies as raw sewage discharges into rivers and coastal waters more than doubled to record levels in England last year, new figures show.

Environment agency data published on Wednesday showed there were 3.6 million hours of spills in 2023, compared with 1.8 million in the previous 12 months.

Water companies discharge waste into rivers and seas when sewers are overwhelmed by rainwater, with outlets known as storm overflows acting as relief valves when rain is particularly heavy.

Tests were carried out on eels (Getty)

In a 2018 study, biologists at the University of Naples Federico II put European eels in water containing a small dose of cocaine  similar to the amount found in rivers  for 50 days.

They found the fish appeared hyperactive compared to eels which had not been kept in waters containing cocaine.

The drug accumulated on the brain, muscles, gills, skin and other tissues of the cocaine-exposed eels, researchers said.

The eels skeletal muscle showed evidence of serious injury, including muscle breakdown and swelling, which had not healed 10 days after they were removed from the drug-contaminated water.
 Close King Charles waves as he arrives for Easter Sunday church service in Windsor

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King Charles went on a surprise walkabout to speak to well-wishers outside Windsor Castle following the Easter Sunday service.

The service was the Kings most notable public appearance since he was diagnosed with cancer in February.

Afterwards, Charles surprised onlookers by greeting gathered members of the public, who later said he looked good and was in high spirits.

A Buckingham Palace source told The Telegraph that doctors had changed medical guidance for the King after he had responded very encouragingly to cancer treatment.

The walkabout will have meant a great deal to the King, said Joe Little, managing editor of Majesty magazine.

He added: Its the first time that hes been able to meet the public in such a way for several months, the first opportunity to do a walkabout this year, so its a very welcome milestone on the road to recovery.

The Kings appearance will also be seen as an effort to reassure the public following the royal familys double cancer scare, with todays service marking just over a week since Kate revealed her own diagnosis.

The Prince and Princess of Wales did not attend the service, but Charles was joined by the Princess Royal and her husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Duke of York and Sarah, Duchess of York.
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Care home residents have been given robotic pets to draw comfort and friendship from as part of a remarkable dementia treatment strategy.

Belvedere Care Home in Colne, Lancashire has been using fake pups and kittens to help residents gain a sense of purpose and give them their own furry friends.

The animals are used throughout the home, but are specifically used to aid residents with dementia as part of the care home groups dementia care strategy.

Liz Reddy is one of the residents helped by the pets (Supplied)

Staff said that in one case, a woman with advanced dementia saw her fall risk reduce almost completely as the fake pets helped her condition.

There are lots of proven benefits such as companionship, friendship and a sense of purpose, manager Gillian Towers said.

They reduce agitation and distressed behaviour, particularly among residents with dementia.

One lady with advanced dementia would have frequent falls if she was in distress. But after we gave her a dog, her fall risk was reduced almost completely.

As her dementia is advanced, she thought the dog was real so it gave her a sense of purpose.

The home currently has five pets including cats that purr and miaow and dogs that bark along if spoken to (Supplied)

The home currently has five pets including cats that purr and miaow and dogs that bark along if spoken to.

Ms Towers added that many residents used to have pets at home and find comfort in the robotic ones.

Some of our residents are not pet people and thats fine, but others love them, she said.

Residents name them and one resident missed her own dog so took the robot one everywhere with her. It brings happy memories.

A study into using robotic pets in care homes by researchers at Plymouth University found that residents given the pets demonstrated positive effects, such as a decrease in depression and anxiety.

Dr Hannah Bradwell, who led the research said: Our results suggest that affordable robot pets are able to produce important wellbeing impacts for older adult care home residents, with further potential positive impacts for staff through reduced occupational disruptiveness.

Interviews and calendar free-text observations demonstrated that the robots were calming, reduced anxiety, improved mood, relaxed residents, reduced agitation, and provided reassurance.
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A much-maligned statue of Prince Philip, branded possibly the poorest quality ever seen, is to be torn down ten years after it was refused planning permission.

The abstract sculpture stands outside a Cambridge office block in honour of the late royal, who spent 35 years as a chancellor at the university.

Since its erection in 2014, the bronze four-metre faceless figure dressed in academic robes called the Don has long been a bone of contention in the art world and local community alike.

The offensive oeuvre came to fruition despite the denial of planning permission from Cambridge Council in 2014.

A plaque under the sculpture reads: HRH Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh, Chancellor University of Cambridge 1977-2011.

The Don will finally be removed after years of controversy (Keith Heppell/Cambridge Independent/ Bav Media)

When the statue was unveiled, it caused such an uproar that no artist wanted to claim the piece as their own.

The Unex Group commissioned the 150,000 piece, and Uruguayan sculptor, Pablo Atchugarry, was believed to be the artist behind the controversy. However, he hit back at claims labelling any suggestion it was his work an abuse, the Guardian reported.

Cambridge City Council has issued an enforcement notice to Unex Group demanding the statue to be removed from Charter House office block by August.

Public art officer for the council, Nadine Black, said it was possibly the poorest quality work that has ever been submitted to the council and another critic dubbed it detritus masquerading as public art.

Britain's Prince Phillip leads a procession to the Senate House at Cambridge University in Cambidgeshire (AFP /Getty)

She added: It is not site-specific and is a work already purchased and has no relationship to this site. It is too large a scale for the context of the space it will be located within and will compromise the quality of the new development.

Katie Thornburrow, the executive councillor for planning, building control and infrastructure wrote on her website: Nobody, apart from the wealthy property developer who commissioned it, seems to have a good word to say about it.

We will be glad to see it gone, but remain angry that developers could just dump it in place and then force the council to spend officers time and money getting them to take it away. We deserve better.

The removal notice issued by the Greater Cambridge shared planning service said the statue seemed to appear within the last four years without permission and would have to be removed within four months of 11 April, unless an appeal was made beforehand.

Bill Gredley, the chairman of Unex group spoke out in support of the work in 2014 and said it was a spectacular piece of art.

A spokesman for Unex group told the Mail: Mr Gredley and others consider it is a rather spectacular bronze with a difference, namely the head and shape as cast together with the bronze being coloured black to resemble the academic clothing and mortarboard.
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Less than seven hours of sleep has been associated with a 7% increased likelihood of developing high blood pressure, early research reveals.

Analysing data from more than a million people from six different countries, the study showed that this likelihood rises to 11% with less than five hours of sleep.

The research team stated that no age-based differences have been found in the association between the amount of sleep and high blood pressure.

Kaveh Hosseini, assistant professor of cardiology at the Tehran Heart Center in Iran, said: Getting seven to eight hours of sleep, as is recommended by sleep experts, may be the best for your heart too.

Apparently not having enough sleep is more risky for women (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Presented at the American College of Cardiologys Annual Scientific Session in the US, the preliminary findings also show that women have a 7% higher risk of developing the condition compared to men.

But Hosseini warned that while this difference is statistically significant, they are not sure its clinically significant - emphasising the need for further research.

People whose data the study examined did not have high blood pressure at the start of the study and were on average followed up in five years.

The link between sleep and high blood pressure was obtained after statistically adjusting for factors like heart disease risk, sex, education, smoking status and weight.

Researchers of the study also advise people to talk to their healthcare provider about their sleep patterns, as conditions like sleep-related breathing disorders have also been shown to relate to cardiovascular diseases.
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Heavy rain and strong winds could cause travel chaos and pose a risk to life in the run-up to the Easter weekend, forecasters have said.

The Met Office has issued weather warnings for rain and strong winds over coming days across parts of Northern Ireland and the south of England.

And hopes for a dry, sunny Easter bank holiday have been dashed, with the forecasters warning that rain is to be scattered across the country from Friday to Monday.

The UK is set to see yet another weekend of miserable weather next week as the Met Office issues weather warnings this week. (PA)

Up to 30mm of rain is expected to fall in Northern Ireland when the yellow warnings come into effect for the eastern part of the country between 7am and 5pm on Thursday.

A further yellow warning for strong winds with gusts of up to 70mph is in place on Thursday for most of the south coast of England, from East Sussex to Cornwall, between 7am and 6pm.

There are two weather warnings in place for Thursday (Met Office)

The fresh warnings come as much of the country is preparing for an Easter weekend washout.

There are set to be showers on Good Friday according to forecasters with showers continuing throughout Saturday and Easter Sunday.

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Helen Caughey said: Showers will continue into the weekend, especially for southern and western areas.

However, it is likely that we will see something of an improvement for most areas, with showers tending to become less frequent, and a better chance of longer spells of sunshine for eastern and northern areas in particular.

It will also become less windy, and temperatures should start to trend upwards, feeling quite warm in any sunshine.

More widely unsettled conditions look likely to return into Easter Monday.

Heavy rain is set to fall on Thursday, with a warning in place for Northern Ireland (Danny Lawson/PA Wire)

The bad weather will not stop there as forecasters suggest the following weekend will also see wet weather.

In their long range weather forecast, the Met Office said Britons will see further rain with unsettled, changeable weather dominating the country.

They added that the wettest weather will be seen in the south while temperatures will be cooler in the north.

Another area of low pressure pushes in from the south with further unsettled, changeable weather dominating throughout, the Met Office said.

All areas are likely to see further rain or showers at times, with some drier spells in between. The wettest weather will tend to favour the south whilst northern parts remain a bit drier on average.

Strong winds are expected in the south west (PA Wire)

The ongoing wet weather comes just weeks after England had its wettest 18 months since records began in 1836.

The meteorological winter, from December last year to the end of last month, was among the wettest on record, Met Office data shows. Many parts of southern England recorded well over twice the average rainfall last month, leading to travel chaos caused by flooding.

The ongoing wet weather comes just weeks after England had its wettest 18 months since records began in 1836 (Getty Images)

Last month, 57 flood warnings and 190 flood alerts were in place across England, as well as several alerts in Wales amid heavy downpours that caused flooding on road and railway lines.

Farmers said crops were ruined, leading to lower yields of certain veg such as cauliflowers.

More than 1,000 properties were flooded in early January, and rivers across the country burst their banks.

MET OFFICE OUTLOOK

Wednesday:

Rain, with hill snow, will move north across Scotland and Northern Ireland, with brighter spells and showers following. Meanwhile, a band of showery rain will move east across England and Wales. Sunshine ahead, and heavy showers following. Generally rather windy.

Wednesday evening:

Clear spells and scattered locally heavy showers at first. Much of Scotland becoming dry overnight. However, showers continuing across Northern Ireland, and outbreaks of rain developing across England and Wales.

Thursday:

Some bright spells, especially across Scotland at first. However, showery rain moving north across most areas during the day. Some hail and thunder in the south, where also very windy.

Outlook for Friday to Sunday:

Bright spells, but breezy with plenty of showers on Good Friday. Showers more scattered on Saturday and Easter Sunday, and feeling warmer in the sunny spells and given lighter winds.
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Newly elected MP George Galloway has accused the UK of being involved in last weeks Moscow terror attack in comments seized upon by a Kremlin-linked newspaper.

The Rochdale MP accused the US and the UK of lying about the involvement of Isis in the attack, which killed at least 139 people and injured around 360, on his talk show on YouTube.

In the month after his return to parliament, described as a dark day for Britains Jewish community, Mr Galloway espoused conspiracy theories about the Princess of Wales being dead and likened Israel to Nazi Germany.

MPs criticised his latest intervention as irresponsible, reckless and playing into the Kremlins hands. The foreign secretary, David Cameron, also described claims that the West and Ukraine were involved in the Crocus City Hall attack as utter nonsense in a post on Twitter/X.

In a recent episode of his YouTube chat show, Mr Galloway said: When the US, UK and others quickly tried to assure me that it was only Isis (banned in the Russian Federation) that committed this massacre in Moscow, I automatically realised that they were lying.

Galloways claims were condemned as reckless and irresponsible (YouTube)

And this is what I discovered: first of all, no one has explained the unannounced visit of former president Barack Obama to meet British politicians and security officials in Downing Street three days before this terrorist crime was committed.

Researching even further, I discovered that Victoria Nuland [former senior US diplomat], this harbinger of death, this angel of death, who, if she approaches you, you can be sure that civil war is coming in your country. And she promised the Russians some unpleasant surprises in the coming weeks and months.

The comments were quickly picked up by Rossiyskaya Gazeta, a newspaper published by the Russian government, which cited him as an expert discussing the attack.

Mr Galloway said he had four pieces of evidence that lead me to believe that the United States, its Nato allies, and their puppet stump state Ukraine are, in fact, responsible for this massacre.

Mr Galloway told The Independent he had never heard of the Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

The new MPs reported comments align with Russian president Vladimir Putins spurious claims that Ukraine is somehow responsible for the attack, despite there being no evidence to suggest this.

Western analysts have warned that Putin has a history of using terrorist attacks to justify wars of aggression, and is likely planning to do the same for the latest Moscow incident.

The remarks prompted a series of criticism from MPs.

Tobias Ellwood, the former chair of parliaments defence committee, said the claims were irresponsible and reckless: Whilst his words will be quickly dismissed as a typically far-fetched, factually incorrect rant, Moscow will exploit this to spin its own domestic narrative that Nato is to blame.

Galloways words are not only irresponsible but reckless.

Conservative Bob Seely, who sits on the foreign affairs committee, said he completely disagreed with Mr Galloways claims. He added: There is absolutely no evidence that the US or the UK or Ukraine or Nato were in any way responsible, and sadly this sort of wild speculation plays into the hands of the Kremlin and will be used to support this absolute fiction of a claim.

Senior Tory MP Henry Smith added that it was outrageous for a British MP to wave the flag for Russia by claiming this was a Nato act.

On Tuesday night, Mr Galloway replied directly to Lord Camerons statement on Twitter/X describing claims of British involvement in the attack as utter nonsense by writing: Of course you do.

Barack Obama visited the prime minister in No 10 for around an hour (PA)

Despite trying to pin the blame on Ukraine, two days after the attack Mr Putin admitted that radical Islamist terrorists were responsible for the killings, but added: Now we want to know who ordered it.

In the article including Mr Galloways claims were quotes from Nikolai Patrushev, the secretary of Russias security council, and Federal Security Service (FSB) director Alexander Bortnikov, attempting to link Ukraine to the attack. Mr Bortnikov has gone as far as making the bizarre claim that the US and UK were behind the attack alongside Ukraine.

The article led with a response from Mr Patrushev to a question of whether Isis or Ukraine was responsible for the Moscow attack. Of course, Ukraine, said Mr Patrushev, without providing evidence. The article then runs quotes from FSB director Mr Bortnikov claiming that Ukrainian special services had been training terrorists in the Middle East  again, without providing evidence.

A top advisor to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky later accused both Mr Patrushev and Mr Bortnikov of officially spreading lies.

Terror group Isis has claimed responsibility for the attack on the Crocus City Hall last Friday, and the US, UK, Ukraine and several other Western nations have corroborated this claim.

Russian officials have accused Ukraine and the West of being involved in the deadly Moscow concert hall attack (POOL/AFP via Getty)

Multiple counterintelligence analysts have also told The Independent that the attack bore all the hallmarks of Isis Khorasan, an offshoot of the terrorist group with a heavy presence in Tajikistan, which is also the nationality of all four of the suspected gunmen.

Mr Galloway was controversially returned to parliament this month after winning the Rochdale by-election, in which Labour was forced to drop its own candidate. After the contest, the Board of Deputies of British Jews condemned Mr Galloways win as a dark day for the UKs Jewish community, while Rishi Sunak warned democracy is under attack from far-right and Islamist extremists.

The prime minister said it was beyond alarming voters had backed a candidate who dismisses the horror of what happened on October 7, when Hamas murdered 1,200 people in Israel.

Mr Galloway was a Labour MP until being expelled in 2003 for his opposition to the invasion of Iraq. His independent campaign in Rochdale was heavily focused on the war in Gaza, where Israel has undertaken a near-six month bombardment and blockade with the aim of eradicating Hamas following a terror attack inside Israel during which around 1,200 people were killed and another 250 taken hostage.

At least 32,000 Palestinians have died in the Israeli assault that has followed, according to health officials in the Hamas-run territory.

Painting the Rochdale by-election as an opportunity to send a message of support to those inside Gaza, after winning the contest Mr Galloway declared: Keir Starmer, this is for Gaza.

But since being elected Mr Galloway has been absent from multiple Commons debates about the conflict. He has long been a critic of Nato and called for Britain to withdraw from the military alliance.

He has also repeatedly been accused of spreading conspiracy theories, including recently speculating that the Princess of Wales was dead and that the April 2022 Russian massacre of civilians in Bucha, just north of Kyiv, was likely staged.

A couple of months after Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Mr Galloway threatened to sue Twitter/X after the social network labelled his account Russian state-affiliated media.

Mr Galloway, whose radio programme The Mother of All Talk Shows was broadcast on the Russian state-owned Sputnik service during the first months of the invasion, said he would sue Twitter/X for defamation unless it rescinds the label.

I work for NO Russian media. I have 400,000 followers. Im the leader of a British political party and spent nearly 30 years in the British parliament, he tweeted at the time.
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MPs have launched a fresh bid for an investigation into Sir Keir Starmers handling of last month's Gaza ceasefire vote, which led to chaotic scenes in the Commons.

A parliamentary motion signed by more than 50 MPs is calling for the privileges committee to investigate "whether undue pressure was placed on the Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle.

It has been signed by a number of senior Tories as well as the Westminster leaders of two parties  the SNP and Plaid.

The Labour leader has previously denied that he "threatened the Speaker in any way over the contentious vote.

There were angry scenes at Westminster after Sir Lindsay was accused of ripping up the parliamentary rule book to select a Labour amendment on the war in the Middle East.

Had the Speaker not acted Sir Keir could have faced a potentially damanging rebellion, as a number of members of his frontbench broke ranks to back a ceasfire. In the wake of the row, the Speaker was accused of breaking Commons rules to benefit Labour and dozens of MPs signed a petition calling for a vote of no confidence in his leadership.

He later apologised saying he had made a mistake.

But he said he had been acting with good intentions, after threats were made to the safety of MPs.

The motion, submitted by senior Conservative MP William Wragg, says: This House notes the Speakers decision on selection and calling of amendments on 21 February 2024 was not in accordance with the established precedent for Opposition days.

And accordingly considers that... the matter of whether undue pressure was placed on Mr Speaker in relation to the decision on selection and calling of amendments on 21 February, should be referred to the Committee of Privileges.

Sir Lindsay is also under pressure after he failed to call Diane Abbott, the former Labour MP who now sits as an independent, during a discussion of alleged racist remarks made about her by a Labour donor.
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Dozens of people gathered in a synagogue in Kyiv this weekend to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Purim, more than two years into Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Following Purim tradition, adults and children wore flashy and colorful costumes that stood out amid the grim reality of war waiting outside the synagogue.

During the week preceding the holiday, two massive missile attacks hit Kyiv, injuring 13 people and damaging civilian infrastructure.

But members of the local Jewish community gathered to celebrate the holiday and life itself.

At the Great Choral Synagogue in the historic neighborhood of Pudil, decorated with balloons and party lights, was filled with cheerful laughter, upbeat music and dance that didnt stop for a moment. The tables were set and ready for the guests to enjoy snacks and drinks.

The holiday of Purim marks the victory of Jews over a tyrant in ancient Persia and is traditionally celebrated with costumes and parties.

Some 2,500 years after the holiday originated, the Jewish community in Kyiv is forced to celebrate this holiday under the constant threat of aerial attack, like people across Ukraine.

___

These photos were taken by AP photographer Vadim Ghirda.
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Washington DCs mayor is being called out after she offered a two-word response to the Baltimore bridge collapse.

Oh no, Muriel Bowser wrote in a now deleted post on X just hours after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Ms Bowsers bizarre response drew the ire of social media users, who slammed her for her choice of words.

Largest bridge in the Baltimore metro area is gone... and this lady acts like she just stubbed her toe, one person wrote.

Willy Wonka when kids disappear in his factory, another person quipped.

Another X user said they thought Ms Bowsers personal X account, which the tweet was published from, was a parody account.

This is the funniest reaction a mayor has ever given to a national tragedy, a fourth person said.

Ms Bowser later offered her condolences to the victims of the Baltimore bridge collapse in a statement.

Muriel Bowser at a news conference this month (AP)

Our prayers are with our neighbors in Baltimore and all those impacted by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, she said. This morning, I reached out to Mayor Scott, and we stand ready to support Baltimore in these difficult days ahead.

The tragic incident unfolded just before 1.30am local time on Tuesday when the Singapore-flagged Dali ship slammed into one of the bridges pillars.

Multiple cars were crossing over the bridge at the time, including one the size of a tractor-trailer.

Authorities said a group of at least eight construction workers were also on the bridge at the time of the collapse, who were doing some concrete deck repair. Six of them remain unaccounted for.

Rescue efforts were launched on Tuesday following the incident, but were called off the same evening after Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said there was no hope of finding the missing workers alive due to the frigid water and the length of time since the accident.

The search and rescue operation transitioned into a recovery mission on Wednesday morning, Rear Admiral Gilreath added.

The 1,000ft container ship Dali was an hour into its voyage to Sri Lanka when it struck the bridge (via Reuters)

Two of the six people missing were identified by family members on Wednesday, with one of the victims identified as 37-year-old Honduras native, Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval. Miguel Luna, a 49-year-old father of three from El Salvador who has called Maryland home for 19 years, is also among the six people missing. Both were part of the construction crew, according to their families.

The other victims have not been named, but Guatemalas foreign ministry confirmed that two Guatemalan nationals are among those unaccounted for after the collapse of the bridge  a 26-year-old from San Luis and a 35-year-old from Camotan. The ministry did not name the men.

Multiple Mexican nationals are also missing, a Mexican Embassy official said, although it is not clear how many.

On Tuesday, Baltimore fire chief James Wallace said two people had been rescued from the water, including one person who was uninjured, and a second person, believed to be part of the work crew, who is in a serious condition in hospital.

One of the victims, Miguel Luna, was on the bridge when the ship hit (Supplied)

Maynor Suazo Sandoval was one of the workers killed in the collapse (Supplied)

Meanwhile, the Synergy Group, the company that manages the Dali, confirmed all 22 crew members who were on board the Dali were accounted for and that there was only one minor injury.

Although the exact cause of the crash has not yet been determined, an unclassified intelligence report, obtained by ABC, revealed the Dali container ship lost propulsion as it was leaving port.

The vessel notified MD Department of Transportation (MDOT) that they had lost control of the vessel and a collision with the bridge was possible, ABC quoted the report by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency as saying. The vessel struck the bridge causing a complete collapse.

The FBI were on the scene of the crash on Tuesday morning, however, officials later confirmed that there was no indication that terrorism was involved in the incident and that the crash was not intentional.

In an interview with CNN on Wednesday, Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg vowed that there would be consequences for any party responsible for the incident.

To be clear: if any private party is responsible and accountable for this, then they will be held accountable, he said.
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Two bodies have now been recovered from the Patapsco river following the deadly collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore.

Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, of Baltimore, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, of Dundalk  both construction workers  were found inside a submerged truck on Wednesday morning, more than 24 hours into the search.

Four other victims  two of them identified as Miguel Luna and Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval  are also presumed dead after all six plunged into the river when the Dali ship struck the bridge.

The tragic discovery of the victims bodies was announced at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, held by personnel from the US Coast Guard, Maryland Department of Transportation and state Governor Wes Moore.

Rescue operations had been called off on Tuesday night when Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said there was no hope of finding the men, who were working on the bridge at the time of the collision, alive due to the frigid water and the length of time since the accident.

Colonel Roland L Butler, superintendent of the Maryland Department of State Police, said that operations had been reclassified from search and recovery to salvage recovery efforts.

The Maryland State Police along with the water recovery teams supported by state, local and federal partners made a tragic finding shortly before 10am, he said.

Baltimore bridge collapse victims: Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, Dorlian Cabrera and Miguel Luna (via Facebook)

Divers located a red pickup truck submerged and approximately 25 feet of water in the area of the middle span of the bridge. Divers recovered two victims of this tragedy trapped within the vehicle.

The families of the two men have been informed.

One of the victims was identified by a drivers license in his pocket, and the other by a fingerprint, Sup. Butler said.

He continued: Knowing the gravity of this, we provided [the families] with a list of resources that they can refer to, and refer their friends and family to at this point.

Based upon the conditions were now moving from a recovery mode to a salvage operation because of the superstructure surrounding the vehicle, what we believe are the vehicles and the amount of concrete and debris, divers are no longer able able to safely navigate or operate.

The exact cause of the crash in the early hours of Tuesday is unknown (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

The areas around this wreckage, and based on sonar scans, we firmly believe that the vehicles are encased in the superstructure and concrete that we tragically saw come down.

Fou other construction workers are also presumed dead following the devastasting collapse. The six victims  from Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras  were carrying out repair work on the road on the bridge when the huge cargo ship  the Dali  crashed into it on Tuesday morning.

Two survivors were previously pulled from the river. One was transported to a trauma unit and is in a serious condition, while the other had not reportedly suffered any injuries.

Sonar technology has detected that multiple vehicles were also thrown off the bridge and submerged in the water.

Baltimore city mayor Brandon Scott previously described the incident as an unthinkable tragedy (REUTERS)

The exact cause of the crash in the early hours of Tuesday, which has been described by authorities as a  developing mass casualty incident, is still unknown.

At around 1.30am ET local time, the Singapore-flagged vessel Dali rammed into a column on the Francis Scott Key Bridge, leading multiple parts of the 1.6 mile-long bridge to tumble into the water. It was just 30 minutes into its 27-day journey to Sri Lanka.

The container ship is thought to have lost propulsion as it left Baltimore port, with the crew alerting Maryland officials they had lost control of the almost 300-metre-long vessel and that a collision was possible, ABC News reported. Governor Moore previously noted that this warning call saved lives.

At Wednesdays briefing, Governor Moore said: The collapse of the Key bridge is not just a Maryland crisis. The collapse of the Key bridge is a global crisis. The national economy and the global economy depends on the Port of Baltimore.

Baltimore city mayor Brandon Scott previously described the incident as an unthinkable tragedy.

We have to be thinking about the families and people impacted, folks who we have to try to find, Mr Scott said.

This is what our focus should be on right now, were going to continue to work in partnership with every part of government to do everything we can to get us through the other side of this tragedy.
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Questions around the Baltimore bridges collapse could soon be answered as the vessels black box has been recovered. Meanwhile, two missing members of the construction crew who were working on the bridge and went missing after its collapse have been identified.

The Dali container vessel rammed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge at 1.30am on 26 March after it lost power, causing the bridge to dramatically collapse.

Mystery surrounds the cause of the incident, which threw members of a construction crew, who were refilling potholes on the bridge at the time, into the Patapsco River, authorities said.

But now details of the cause of the crash could become available.

The National Transportation Safety Board retrieved the Dalis voyage data recorder, also known as its black box, the agencys Jennifer Homendy said on Wednesday. It can provide a timeline of the run-up to the collision, give positioning information, and insights into what caused the power loss, she said.

Ms Homendy said they could have that information as early as Wednesday afternoon.

Workers continue to investigate and search for victims at the scene (Getty)

Officials have labelled the crash an accident, saying no signs point toward terrorism.

While two survivors were pulled from the river hours after the dramatic collapse, six others were reported still missing.

Rescuers suspended their nearly full-day search for the missing individuals on Tuesday evening; the six missing men were presumed dead.

The six construction workers were all employed by contractor Brawner Builders, authorities said. Brawner Builders employee Jesus Campos told The Baltimore Banner that the missing individuals are all men in their thirties and forties, and all have spouses and children. They are all hardworking, humble men, he added.

Two of the missing men have since been identified: Miguel Luna, 49, and Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 38.

Miguel Luna, a father of three, is reported to have been lost when the bridge collapsed (Supplied)

Their relatives have started speaking out.

Mr Luna, a father of three, is from El Salvador and had been living in Maryland for just under 20 years, according to a statement from the non-profit organisation Casa.

His wife, Maria del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo 44 that she and other family members of the missing men were able to gain access to the restricted disaster zone while they anxiously awaited news of their loved ones.

They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they cant give us information, she said. [We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we dont know if theyve rescued them yet. Were just waiting to hear any news.

One of Mr Lunas children, Marvin Luna, told The Washington Post that he knew his father was working on the Key Bridge overnight but did not know it had collapsed until one of his friends called him up and said: The bridge is gone.

Marvin then called his fathers phone, but there was no reply.

The Honduran deputy foreign affairs minister also confirmed to the Associated Press that Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval was among the missing men.

Mr Sandoval is from Honduras, and had been living in the United States for over 18 years. He is married and has two children.

His brother Martin, who lives in Honduras, told CNN that family members in Baltimore called him to tell him that his brother was missing.

Mr Sandoval was an entrepreneur who had started his own maintenance company, going to the US in search of a better life, his brother said.

Although Martin said that his family was holding on to hope that his brother could be found alive, they now just hope that his body could be recovered so they can give him a proper goodbye.

In an interview with Honduran newspaper La Prensa, Mr Suazo said in Spanish, What were living is inexplicable. We wish it wasnt real. Were dismayed, especially the agony of not knowing when theyre going to find the body.

The Honduran Embassy told Mr Suazo that it would work with him to bring his brothers body back to the country for funeral arrangements.

Col Roland Butler Jr of Maryland State Police said at a Wednesday evening press conference that two victims had been trapped inside a red pickup truck on Wednesday morning.

They were identified as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26.

Mr Butler didnt specify where the two were from, but said that those presumed deceased are from Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, from Honduras, had come to America in search of a better life (Supplied)

The four others missing have yet to be identified. Two of those are from Guatemala, the countrys ministry of foreign affairs said in a Tuesday statement, adding that one is believed to be 26-year-old from San Luis, Peten and the other is believed to be a 35-year-old from Camotan, Chiquimula.

The ministry did not name the two unaccounted-for workers, but told The Independent in a statement that it had been in contact with local authorities and the missing mens families.

The Mexican Embassy also posted on Twitter/X saying that Mexican citizens were among the workers who fell into the river. The embassy did not give their names or say how many of the workers were from Mexico.

Mr Butler said on Wednesday evening that agencies were transitioning from a recovery mode to salvage recovery operation.

Transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg said at a Wednesday press conference that he grieved the loss of the six workers.

He added that if not for the responders efforts, the mayday call, the maintenance closure that was already underway and the time of day of the impact, the loss of life might have been in the dozens.

He said that he has received clear direction from the president to tear down any barriers, bureaucratic as well as financial that could get in the way of rebuilding the bridge as quickly as possible.

Joe Biden on Tuesday said he intends to rebuild the bridge entirely through the use of federal funds.
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Crew members onboard the Dali cargo ship have been praised for saving countless lives by raising a mayday alarm just moments before the vessel hit the Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge.

The Singapore-flagged shipping vessel slammed into one of the pillars at around 1.30am (local time) on Tuesday, causing a long span of the bridge to instantly crumple into the Patapsco River.

At least eight people went into the water and six of them  all construction workers  were presumed dead due to the frigid water and the length of time elapsed since the accident.

Follow all the latest updates with our live blog here.

The alarm call issued by the ships all-Indian crew moments before the crash allowed authorities to stop cars from entering the bridge from both sides, saving lives in the process.

The vessel notified the Department of Transportation (MDOT) that they had lost control of the ship and that a collision with the bridge was possible.

A drone view of the Dali cargo vessel, which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing it to collapse, in Baltimore (via REUTERS)

Following the mayday alarm, a dispatchers 12-second warning crackled over the radio: Theres a ship approaching thats just lost their steering so until theyve got that under control weve got to stop all traffic.

Within about 90 seconds, police officers responded that they had managed to stop vehicle traffic over the bridge in both directions.

One official said he was about to drive onto the bridge to alert a construction crew, but it was too late.

With the ship barreling toward the bridge at "a very, very rapid speed", authorities had just enough time to stop cars, Maryland governor Wes Moore said.

"These people are heroes," he said. "They saved lives last night."

Two people were rescued from the waters, with one in critical condition. Search operation for the remaining six construction workers was suspended on Tuesday night, but is expected to resume on Wednesday morning with very little hope of finding them alive.

Among the missing were people from Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, according to diplomats from those countries. The Honduran man was identified as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova.

Dramatic videos show the 1.6-mile-long bridge crumpling into the water, with the headlights of vehicles seen in the footage as it collapsed.

There still was traffic moving across the span, and some vehicles appeared to escape with only seconds to spare.

Maryland governor Wes Moore has declared a state of emergency while the FBI in Baltimore said they were on scene, while it has been confirmed that there is no indication of terrorism.

Never would you think that you would see, physically see, the Key Bridge tumble down like that. It looked like something out of an action movie, said mayor Brandon Scott, calling it an unthinkable tragedy.

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after the collision (AP)

Synergy Marine Group - which owns and manages the Dali - confirmed the vessel hit a pillar of the bridge while it was in control of two pilots.

It confirmed all 22 crew members, including the pilots, were accounted for and there were no reports of any injuries. The ship had only travelled four miles from the Seagirt Marine Terminal on its journey to Sri Lanka when it crashed.

A loss of propulsion, which according to an unclassified report was the reason behind the collision, is the failure of the propulsion system to steer and navigate the vessel.

As a result of the incident and ongoing recovery efforts, all Baltimore port traffic is suspended until further notice.

Tuesdays disaster may be the worst US bridge collapse since 2007 when the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis collapsed into the Mississippi River, killing 13.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, according to the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.
 Close Baltimore to receive $60 million in federal funds to rebuild

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Crews started lifting the first section of Baltimores collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge from the water on Saturday, a move aimed at allowing access for barges and tugboats to reach the disaster site.

The workers are currently focusing on lifting a section of the bridge while leaving the crumpled part resting on the bow of the Dali, the container ship responsible for the bridge collapse, officials said. Meanwhile, US president Joe Biden said on Friday he will go to Baltimore next week.

Tom Perez, senior adviser and assistant to Biden, said Sunday that plans for the visit were still being worked out. He called the salvage operation a Herculean undertaking.

The Port of Baltimore will be back, Mr Perez told MSNBC. The president has said this. Were going to move heaven and earth to make sure we rebuild the bridge, we clear out the debris as soon as possible, so that we can minimize these disruptions.

It comes after enormous cranes arrived in Baltimore to help clear the wreckage, which officials say is an essential step before recovery efforts to find the missing construction workers and reopen the port.
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A 911 call has revealed the moment a worker discovered the body of missing Missouri student Riley Strain.

Strain was found in the Cumberland River last Friday, eight miles downriver from where he was last seen, after he disappeared on 8 March after he was asked to leave a bar in downtown Nashville.

I believe it to be Riley, a man tells the dispatcher on 22 March, adding that his company works on the river where he just found a dead body.

Whats it look like, the dispatcher asked in the audio, which was obtained by WSMV.

Its definitely a person here. Black shirt, kind of white, muddy-looking on the front. Its face down in the water... Caucasian, the unidentified worker said.

It look like a male? the dispatcher replied.

Yes maam, he replied. Hes fully submerged besides his back sticking out of the water, the 911 caller said, adding his exact location.

Riley Strain, 22, was found dead on Friday after two weeks of searching (Metro Nashville PD)

I actually had to move a log off of the head to confirm it was a body, he adds.

The dispatcher said they would send someone down to take a look and the call ended.

Strains body was finally recovered after a two-week-long mission, actively searching for the missing 22-year-old by authorities, volunteers, friends and family.

Police used sonar-equipped boats to search the waters of the Cumberland River, while helicopters and drones were dispatched to scan nearby river banks.

Strain went missing after he and his fraternity brothers were visiting Nashville for a spring formal trip on 8 March.

He was kicked out of country star Luke Bryans 32 Bridge Food + Drink, being asked to leave around 9.45pm.

He was last seen out with his friends in Nashville on 8 March (Chris Whiteid via AP/Metro Nashville PD)

He told his friends he would return to their hotel, but instead started to walk towards the direction of the Cumberland River.

The man was reported missing in the early hours of 9 March when his friends realised that Strain had not returned to the hotel.

After Strains body was recovered, a preliminary autopsy was carried out and said that there were no signs of foul play-related trauma.

His death continues to appear accidental, Kristin Mumford, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, has also said, according to NBC.

Authorities said that workers were removing an object from the river when they made the discovery of Strains body.

As also described by the 911 caller, police added that Strain was wearing his distinctive black and white shirt when he was found.

Strains family thanked all those who helped in the search after his body was found (AP)

Nashville Police Chief John Drake highlighted a disturbing detail as to why it may have taken so long to recover the body of the missing student; a body matching Strains height and weight would typically take approximately 14 to 20 days to surface after being submerged in a body of water.

Due to this, police were expecting to find him that week.

On the night that his body was found, residents from Nashville held a candlelit vigil on Gay Street, the last place surveillance footage picked up Strain.

Strains family also spoke at a press conference, thanking everyone within the community for their support during the search for him.

I want to reiterate how thankful we are for everyone and how much we appreciate everyones support, love and prayers, Riley Strains mother, Michelle Whiteid, said.

I just ask that you mamas out there hug your babies tight tonight, please, for me, she continued.
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The three white men who killed Ahmaud Arbery after chasing him with their vehicles and fatally shooting him for jogging in their neighbourhood are appealing their hate crime conviction.

Attorneys for Greg McMichael, Travis McMichael and William Bryan appeared on Wednesday before the 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta, Georgia, just hours away from where they murdered the 25-year-old Black man.

A demonstrator holds a sign that reads, Justice for Ahmaud after three men murdered Ahmaud Arbery while he was on a jog in their neighbourhood (Getty Images)

Arbery was murdered while he was on a jog in a suburb of Brunswick, Georgia in February 2020. After spotting him, Greg McMichael and his son, Travis, armed themselves with guns and chased Arbery while driving vehicles. Their neighbour, William Bryan, joined them and recorded footage of Travis McMichael murdering Arbery in the street.

It took local police three months to make an arrest, even though officers had arrived on the scene shortly after Travis McMichael fatally shot him.

In state court, a jury subsequently convicted the three men of murder in 2021, with another federal jury convicting them of hate crimes  as well as attempted kidnapping  in 2022. The hate crime convictions came after prosecutors demonstrated the men made racist comments online and in text messages, often using racial slurs and advocating for racist violence.

All three men convicted of murdering Ahmaud Arbery are appealing their hate crime convictions handed down in 2022 (AP)

Bryan and Greg McMichaels lawyers argued these comments do not prove they murdered Arbery because he was Black, with Bryans attorney J Pete Theodocion even stating that including the messages in the trial had a prejudicial effect on the jury.

Meanwhile, Travis McMichaels lawyer Amy Copeland based his appeal on a minor technicality, arguing that US prosecutors incorrectly labelled the street they killed Arbery on as a public street in their indictment. This argument comes after prosecutors revealed Travis McMichael commented on a video of a Black man playing a prank on a white man, claiming he would kill the Black man. The comment also contained a racial slur.

The McMichaels are currently serving two concurrent life sentences without the possibility of parole. Meanwhile, Bryan is facing a life sentence with the possibility of parole after 30 years. The three men initiated the appeals process in May 2023 and received their court date two months ago, in January 2024.

Ahmaud Arbery and his mother Wanda Cooper-Jones (Family)

All three men will remain in jail even if they win their appeal, given they are already serving life sentences for murdering Arbery.

Last year, Arberys mother Wanda Cooper-Jones told The Independent she was glad to see Georgia pass hate crime legislation, meaning future cases of potential hate crimes will not have to be tried in federal court, as Arberys case was.

Change has come and if someone who looks like Ahmaud decides to run down the street and they are gunned down by people because they dont look like them, then those people can be charged, Ms Cooper-Jones told The Independent.
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Convicted murderer and disbarred attorney Alex Murdaugh could lose his plea deal on multiple theft charges after he allegedly lied to the FBI about where the more than $6m he stole ended up, federal prosecutors said in court documents on Tuesday.

Now, prosecutors want the judge to revoke the deal and order Murdaugh to the maximum of well over 100 years in prison when he is sentenced in federal court in Charleston, South Carolina, on Monday.

Murdaugh, 55, who is already serving life without parole in prison after he was found guilty in the the 2021 murders of his wife Maggie and son Paul, pleaded guilty in state court last year to stealing money from clients and his law firm.

He was sentenced to 27 years, which South Carolina prosecutors said is an insurance policy to keep him behind bars in case his murder conviction was ever overturned.

The federal case was supposed to be even more insurance, with whatever sentence Murdaugh received running at the same time as his state sentences.

But now that deal is in doubt after the FBI said the disbarred attorney failed a polygraph that was conducted in October.

Alex Murdaugh (Gavin McIntyre/The Post and Courier via AP, Pool)

Prosecutors said they will ask for the stiffest sentence possible since the plea agreement was breached and require Murdaugh serve his federal sentence at the end of any state sentences.

Each of the 22 counts Murdaugh pleaded guilty to in federal court carries a maximum of 20 years in prison. Some carry a 30-year maximum.

State prosecutors estimated Murdaugh stole more than $12m from clients by diverting settlement money into his own accounts or stealing from his family law firm.

Federal investigators estimate at least $6m of that has not been accounted for, although Murdaugh has said he spent extravagantly on illegal drugs after becoming hooked on opioids.

It came about after three previous FBI interviews of Murdaugh led investigators to think he wasnt telling the full truth about where at least $6m he stole ended up and the role of an attorney who has not been publicly identified in his crimes, federal prosecutors said.

Federal prosecutors said Murdaugh did, however, appear to tell the truth about the roles banker Russell Laffitte and attorney and old college friend Cory Fleming played in helping him steal. Laffitte was convicted and sentenced to seven years in prison, while Fleming is serving nearly four years behind bars after pleading guilty.

In court papers, prosecutors asked to keep the report on the polygraph test and summaries of Murdaughs four FBI interviews from the public, saying a grand jury is continuing to investigate and the information could be used to tamper with evidence or influence witnesses.

Prosecutors said there is a long history of federal law that wont allow Murdaugh to revoke his guilty plea since he broke the terms of the deal.

We are working on a reply to this 11th-hour filing by the government, said Jim Griffin, one of Murdaughs attorneys, according to The State.

A footnote in the prosecutions filing said they were against keeping the polygraph report secret, the Associated Press reported.

When he pleaded guilty in federal court on 21 September, it was the first time he admitted to a crime and promised to stick to the requirements of his deal, including being fully truthful and forthright with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies by providing full, complete and truthful information about all criminal activities about which he/she has knowledge.

I want to take responsibility, he said in September. I want my son to see me take responsibility. Its my hope that by taking responsibility that the people Ive hurt can begin to heal.

The news comes just days after Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca Becky Hill resigned after being plagued by accusations of jury tampering during Murdaughs murder trial (Andrew J. Whitaker/The Post And Courier via AP, Pool, File)

The news of the polygraph test comes just days after Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca Becky Hill announced that she was resigning from her position after being plagued by accusations of jury tampering during Murdaughs murder trial.

In what marked her first public appearance since the bombshell allegations were made by the convicted killers legal team last year, Ms Hill confirmed to reporters on Monday outside the courthouse that she will not run for re-election, adding that she is quitting her role effective immediately.

I will now be able to focus on being a wife, mother and grandmother to my two grandboys, she said. And will be spending time with the people who mean the most to me.

Alex Murdaugh court clerk resigns following accusations of jury tampering

Her attorney Justin Bamberg insisted that the announcement today is not in response to any new development in the state investigations into the court clerk  instead claiming that her resignation is about allowing other candidates to run.

He refused to address the state investigation against her when pressed by reporters at the courthouse.

The court clerk is currently under investigation by South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) for allegations of abusing her government position for financial and personal gain, by tampering with the jury at Murdaughs trial in order to help sell copies of her upcoming book.

SLED is the same state agency that led the investigation into the murders of Murdaughs wife Maggie and son Paul in June 2021.
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A man accused of going on a killing spree in Rockford, Illinois said marijuana laced with an unknown narcotic sparked the violence which left four dead including a mailman and a 15-year-old girl.

Christian Soto, 22, is in custody facing four counts of first-degree murder, as well as multiple attempted murder and home invasion charges.

The violence began at lunchtime on Wednesday, with Mr Soto later telling Rockford Police Department officers that he was smoking weed with his friend which he said had been laced with an unknown narcotic.

He became paranoid, grabbed a knife from the kitchen and began stabbing his friend and his friends mother, aged 23 and 63 respectively.

On fleeing the scene, Mr Soto recalled taking out the mailman, whom he stabbed multiple times and ran over in his truck.

The postal worker, 49, had been with the service for 25 years, officials said on Thursday.

Mr Soto then broke into other homes, leaving seven others injured and a 15-year-old girl dead, after she saved her sister and best friend.

The suspect was taken into custody after chasing one of his victims into the street and stabbing her before a Good Samaritan intervened.

Christian Soto is accused of multiple counts of murder (Rockford Police)

In a statement on Thursday morning, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service told The Independent that it was working with law enforcement.

The Postal Inspection Service can confirm that a United States Postal Service (USPS) letter carrier was one of the victims in yesterdays incident in Rockford, IL, a spokesperson said. At this time, there are no additional details we can provide, as this is an active investigation. Postal inspectors are working with the Rockford Police Department in this investigation.

Police at the scene of one of the attacks (AP)

In an initial statement released to My Stateline on Wednesday night, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara said city leadership was shocked by the horrific act of violence.

We can report that the suspect is in custody and the threat has been neutralized, Mayor McNamara said. Now that he is in custody, our primary concern is ensuring that our community members directly impacted by this violence are supported throughout their healing and recovery.

We have multiple jurisdictions working on multiple crime scenes to develop an understanding of what transpired in an effort to prevent this from happening again. We will continue to provide updates, the mayor said.

A vigil to remember the victims has been planned for 2.30pm at the intersection of Charles Street and Eggleston Road in the city.
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A British father has died after trying to save his son from a huge storm in Mauritius.

The unnamed 49-year-old was swept away to sea after disappearing beneath the waves at Pomponette Lagoon on the southern coast of the island. It is believed he had been trying to save his 15-year-old son, who managed to clamber to shore despite the large waves.

The father was last seen on Saturday, according to his son, while searches surrounding the tropical island continued through the weekend.

A huge search and rescue operation began at around 10.15am on Saturday, shortly after the pair got into difficulty, with the national coast guard and a police helicopter dispatched to the scene. He had not been found as of Monday afternoon.

An FCDO spokesperson confirmed to The Independent on Tuesday that the man had died.

We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Mauritius and are in contact with the local authorities, the spokesperson said.

The tragedy struck just one day after the man, his partner and his son arrived in Mauritius last Friday. They had been due to leave on March 30.

Weather forecasts showed a large storm approaching Mauritius over the weekend, resulting in larger-than-usual waves in the area.

One local weather agency predicted up to three-metre waves on Friday, and a strong swell warning was in force from Sunday into Monday.

It comes as a British national has drowned in front of his wife after being swept away by strong currents while swimming off an Indian beach.

The 72-year-old man died on Friday evening at the Talpona beach in Canacona, in the western state of Goa, the Times of India reports.

Local police said he got carried away by a strong current after going for a swim with his wife.
 Close Missing Sebastian Rogers' father speaks as search reaches one month mark

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A non-profit organisation helping in the search for Sebastian Rogers in Tennessee called off its search on Friday over safety concerns.

Members of the United Cajun Navy reportedly received death threats online and in person, with the group announcing it was regrouping.

Meanwhile, the 15-year-olds parents met with law enforcement on Thursday, as the search for him nears five weeks.

The 15-year-olds father said he could not discuss with reporters what the meeting was about, but insisted that he still has hope that his son is out there somewhere.

I dont know if hes been abducted or if hes just over at a friends house, but Ill know when I find him exactly what has happened to him, Seth Rogers told Fox 17.

Authorities revealed on Tuesday that at least 10,000 miles had been logged by those searching for the autistic teenager, with an Amber Alert still in effect.

He vanished overnight on 25 February, with his mother Katie Proudfoot finding his bed empty the next morning.

So far there has been no sign of him.
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The feud between Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Walt Disney World, sparked by criticism of the states so-called Dont Say Gay law, has ended after nearly two years.

On Wednesday morning, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District approved a settlement between Allies of Ron DeSantis and Disney. The litigation first began when Disney criticised the 2022 Dont Say Gay law, which banned classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades.

The Florida governor, who had championed the law, subsequently took control of the district that governs Walt Disney World thanks to the states Republican-controlled legislature. He then appointed his own board of supervisors. The district, which Disney supporters previously controlled, provides municipal services  such as firefighting  to the park.

Disney sued, claiming their free speech rights were violated for speaking out against the law  but a federal judge threw out their case in January. US District Judge Allen Winsor determined that Disney lacks standing to sue the government, arguing that a plaintiff cannot bring a free speech challenge by claiming that the lawmakers who passed it acted with a constitutionally impermissible purpose.

Mr DeSantis praised the settlement during a Wednesday afternoon press conference.

I think that theres a desire to move forward, he told reporters. I think that [Disney has] opportunities to expand their footprint and to continue to attract visitors, and those things, when there, can coincide with the states interest. We think that thatd be good, so I think the board will work with them.

Disney also expressed hope that this settlement could lead to an improved relationship with the districts leadership.

This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the state, Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World, said.

But as this case comes to a close, Florida laws targeting the LGBT+ community are only ramping up.

After the Dont Say Gay law passed in 2022, reporters from The Independent and other outlets found that Disney entities and affiliates contributed tens of thousands of dollars to the GOP lawmakers who championed the law, despite the companys history of LGBTQ+ advocacy.

Last year, Mr DeSantis signed several anti-LGBT+ bills into law. That new set of laws, among other things, restricts gender-affirming care for minors, threatens drag shows, forbids people from using bathrooms that match their gender identity and prevents people from using their chosen pronouns at schools

That same year, lawmakers passed laws requiring books that are considered pornography, are deemed harmful to minors or contain sexual content to be pulled from school shelves. Some school districts have also used the Dont Say Gay law to remove books with LGBTQ+ characters or content.

According to PEN America, 40 per cent of all book bans in the US took place in Florida in the 2022-2023 school year, with entities throughout the state banning a total of 1,406 books.
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Democrats on the House Oversight Committee are calling for a hearing into what they call the foreign influence peddling of former president Donald Trumps son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

The top Democrat on the Committee, Maryland representative and ranking member Jamie Raskin, and California representative Robert Garcia pushed chair James Comer, Republican of Kentucky, in a letter on Tuesday to convene a hearing regarding Jared Kushners apparent influence peddling and quid pro quo deals involving investments in exchange for official actions and to examine the resulting threats to our national security.

Mr Comer has led the so-far fruitless impeachment investigation into President Joe Biden, which has focused heavily on his son Hunter Biden, but no wrongdoing on the part of the president has yet been established.

While Hunter Biden made millions in foreign business dealings, the Republicans have failed to connect the president to those dealings, beyond some fleeting greetings with business associates.

Mr Raskin and Mr Garcia cited recent New York Times reporting that Mr Kushner has been looking to make real estate deals with foreign governments via contacts he established during his time as an adviser in the Trump administration, even as his father-in-law makes another run for the top job.

Mr Comer has said previously that Mr Kushner crossed an ethical line when he made a deal for large Saudi investments just after departing from the White House.

Unlike the Bidens, Jared Kushner has a legitimate business and has a career as a business executive that predates Donald Trumps political career, Mr Comer said in a statement, according to HuffPost. Democrats latest letter is part of their playbook to shield President Biden from oversight.

Mr Comer has argued that Joe Biden used his time in government, including as vice-president, to make large amounts of money by letting family members use their well-known last name to make significant deals.

But Mr Trump owned businesses that got millions from foreign governments during his time as president. Mr Trump owned a hotel in downtown Washington DC between the White House and the US Capitol where foreign officials would stay as an indirect way of paying tribute to Mr Trump. Some have argued this violated the ban on US officials receiving foreign payments.

The New York Times reported on 15 March that Mr Kushner was getting close to finalising real estate deals in Albania and Serbia, partly using contacts he appeared to have made during his time in the White House.

Mr Kushner said he had been working with Richard Grenell, who was the acting director of national intelligence, ambassador to Germany, and the special envoy to the Balkans during the Trump administration.

No one is giving me deals, Mr Kushner told The New York Times earlier this month. I operate fairly meticulously, and these investments will create a lot of value for the local communities, our partners and our investors.
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Former Republican National Committee (RNC) chair Ronna McDaniel has been dropped from her new role as a commentator with NBC News, just days after her hiring was announced, in response to an on-air backlash from several of the networks star anchors.

Cesar Conde, NBCUniversal News Group chairman, informed staff they would be severing ties with Ms McDaniel in a memo on Tuesday that read: After listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor.

I want to personally apologize to our team members who felt we let them down. While this was a collective recommendation by some members of our leadership team, I approved it and take full responsibility for it.

No organisation, particularly a newsroom, can succeed unless it is cohesive and aligned. Over the last few days, it has become clear that this appointment undermines that goal.

Mr Conde added: Our initial decision was made because of our deep commitment to presenting our audiences with a widely diverse set of viewpoints and experiences, particularly during these consequential times.

We continue to be committed to the principle that we must have diverse viewpoints on our programs, and to that end, we will redouble our efforts to seek voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum.

Ms McDaniel was recently ousted from her role with the RNC after Donald Trump, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, became dissatisfied with the committees fundraising efforts in the wake of the 2022 midterm elections.

He called for her removal after winning the South Carolina primary in February and quickly moved to install Michael Whatley and his own daughter-in-law Lara Trump as co-chairs in her stead, a brutal response given Ms McDaniels seven years of dogged loyalty in the role, which saw her promote Mr Trumps bogus claims that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him, a position that so incensed NBC employees.

Her hiring as a paid contributor on a $300,000 deal was first announced last Friday, with NBCs senior vice president of politics Carrie Budoff Brown saying it couldnt be a more important moment to have a voice like Ronnas on the team, but immediately attracted an angry backlash.

Those tensions reached the air on Sunday after Ms McDaniel had made her debut on Meet the Press with Kristen Welker, when NBCs political director Chuck Todd admonished his bosses for hiring her on the same show and suggested they owed Welker an apology.

During that interview, the latter had pressed Ms McDaniel about her failed tenure as RNC chair, a notion she pushed back on, defending her record of recruiting women and people of colour to run for congressional seats.

Welker also asked her to admit that President Joe Biden had won the 2020 election fair and square. She did so.

Ronna McDaniel (AP)

Unmoved, Morning Joe hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski added their voices to the growing torrent of criticism on Monday.

To be clear, we believe NBC News should seek out conservative Republican voices to provide balance in their election coverage, Brzezinski said.

But it should be conservative Republicans, not a person who used her position of power to be an anti-democracy election denier. And we hope NBC will reconsider its decision.

On Monday evening, MSNBC host Rachel Maddow joined in, commenting: The fact that McDaniel is on the payroll at NBC News  to me that is inexplicable.

You wouldnt hire a wise guy, you wouldnt hire a made man, like a mobster, to work in a DAs office.

Mr Trump has since reacted to the news of her being dropped in gloating fashion on Truth Social, seemingly indicating his past alliance with Ms McDaniel is well and truly over.

Wow! Ronna McDaniel got fired by Fake News NBC, the candidate wrote.

She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear. It leaves her in a very strange place, its called NEVER NEVERLAND, and its not a place you want to be.

These Radical Left Lunatics are CRAZY, and the top people at NBC ARE WEAK. They were BROKEN and EMBARRASSED by LOW RATINGS, HIGHLY OVERPAID, TALENT. BRING BACK FREE AND FAIR PRESS.

In a second post, he lashed out at Todd and the sick degenerates who run the network and cruelly mocked Ms McDaniel for consenting, at his suggestion, to change her surname so as to dissociate herself from her uncle, Utah senator Mitt Romney, an outspoken Republican critic of Mr Trump.

If I knew Ronna was going to troubled MSNBC, I would have advised her to change her name back to Romney, she would have had a better chance!
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A federal appeals court upheld a lower court ruling blocking Texas from implementing a controversial immigration law that would allow law enforcement officials to arrest migrants at the US southern border.

On Tuesday evening, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a 2-1 ruling declaring that Texas may not enforce its law, for now, because it conflicts with federal immigration laws.

Regardless of the wisdom of the Executives actions and inactions, it is for the Executive to decide whether, and if so, how to pursue noncitizens illegally present in the United States, judges wrote in the majority opinion

The law Texas was trying to implement is known as SB4 and would make it a crime for people to cross the border illegally and give law enforcement the authority to make arrests and charges for those they believe crossed illegally.

Police could charge people with a Class B misdemeanour, which carries a maximum sentence of six months in jail. Second offenders could face second-degree felony charges and up to 20 years in prison.

The ruling comes after the Biden administration asked a federal district court to pause the law while litigation was ongoing. The lower court complied, which Texas appealed to the Fifth Circuit Court.

A Texas National Guard soldier observes as thousands of immigrants walk towards a U.S. Border Patrol transit center on December 19, 2023 (Getty Images)

Texas may appeal the Fifth Circuit Courts decision to the US Supreme Court or wait until oral arguments are heard on April 3. But already, SB4 has created a messy trail of litigation through several federal court systems.

Last year, Texas Governor Greg Abbott passed SB4 as part of a growing trend of aggressive anti-immigration to curtail the number of migrants passing over the US-Mexico border.

After the law was passed, the Biden administration quickly moved to ask the district court to intervene in its implementation. They argued that Texas overstepped the federal government by creating a strict immigration law, thus violating the precedent of Arizona v United States.

After the law was passed, the Biden administration quickly moved to ask the district court to intervene in its implementation. They argued that Texas overstepped the federal government by creating a strict immigration law, thus violating the precedent of Arizona v United States.

The district court moved to strike the law, but that was appealed to the Fifth Circuit. During that time, the Supreme Court was asked to intervene and issued a stay in the law while lower courts were still making a decision. The Supreme Court, at first, issued a stay in the law while lower courts were still making a decision. However, the court ultimately stepped back from intervening, saying the Fifth Circuit needed to make a decision first.
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Mike Roman, Donald Trumps former campaign aide and one of the 18 co-defendants in his sprawling racketeering case in Georgia, has been subpoenaed by Arizona officials as part of their criminal investigation into the alleged plot to overturn Joe Bidens 2020 win in the state.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has been overseeing the inquiry into the so-called fake electors scheme, which, had it not been foiled, would have seen groups of illegitimate state electors submitting false voting certificates to Congress and the National Archives declaring Mr Trump, not Mr Biden, as the election winner.

The Democrat is said to be nearing a decision on whether to bring charges against anyone involved, according to CNN.

Ms Mayes is understood to have principally centred her investigation around 11 pro-Trump alternate electors in Arizona and the organisers of the efforts to keep Mr Trump in power, despite his loss among voters.

But she has also been looking more broadly into possible ties between state officials and the former presidents national campaign, with witnesses routinely questioned about connections between local election staff and Mr Trumps team.

Its robust. Its a serious matter, Ms Mayes told CNN of her work last year.

Were going to make sure that we do it on our timetable, applying the resources that it requires to make sure that justice is done, for not only Arizonans, but for the entire country.

Another ally of Mr Trumps, attorney Kenneth Chesebro  also a co-defendant in the Georgia case, where he reached a plea deal with prosecutors  has already sat voluntarily for an interview with investigators in Arizona in recent weeks.

The New York Times previously obtained a memo written by Mr Chesebro on 6 December 2020 in which he laid out a plan to install slates of alternate electors with the aim of preventing Mr Biden from amassing the 270 Electoral College votes he needed to secure the presidency.

Michael Roman in mug shot (Fulton County Sheriffs Office)

Prosecutors described the memo as a strategy to mimic as best as possible the actions of the legitimate Biden electors, and that on January 6, the vice president [would] open and count the fraudulent votes, setting up a fake controversy that would derail the proper certification of Biden as president-elect.

Prosecutors in other swing states like Michigan and Nevada have already brought criminal charges against some of those who signed on as pro-Trump fake electors.

But Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Mr Trump, has dismissed the whole affair as a witch hunt.

President Trump is dominating Crooked Joe Biden and his Democrat allies know it, so they continue to ramp up their ongoing witch hunts, further abusing the power of their offices to interfere in the presidential election, he told ABC News in a statement.

The American people will not fall for the Biden-directed hoaxes and will hold Crooked Joe and his comrades to account this fall.

In the Georgia case, Mr Roman has pleaded not guilty to the seven charges against him relating to his alleged efforts to help coordinate and appoint fake electors.

He also led the effort to have Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis removed from prosecuting that case over her romantic relationship with a fellow lawyer Nathan Wade. A judge rejected the bid for removal. However, Mr Wade has since stepped down from the case to dispel concerns around conflict of interest.
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The White House is brushing off criticism after press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre abruptly ended an interview with a North Carolina radio station after one of the hosts asked if President Joe Biden has dementia.

Ms Jean-Pierre spoke to the news director at 99.3 WBT Charlotte, Mark Garrison, on Tuesday. Mr Garrison subsequently appeared on The Brett Winterble Show where he shared clips of the interview.

Mr Garrison told the press secretary that several people had asked him to ask her about Mr Biden having dementia.

Ms Jean-Pierre said that the question was incredibly offensive, adding that Im not even going to truly... take the premise of your question. I think it is incredibly insulting... we can move on to the next question.

Karine Jean-Pierre speaks during a daily news briefing on 25 March (Getty)

How does Mr Biden win votes when people dont have as much disposable income? Mr Garrison went on to ask, mentioning rising prices for groceries and gas.

The president understands, she said. He grew up in a middle-class, working-class family in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He gets it. He understands how difficult it is for Americans who are sitting around their kitchen table every month trying to figure out what theyre going to pay for. You have to remember when the president walked into this administration, there were multiple crises happening.

There was Covid-19, the economy was in a tailspin because of the last administration, because of what President Trump left us with, she argued. Now youre asking me about gas prices. The president took action on gas prices. Lets not forget Russias invasion of Ukraine skyrocketed prices of gas.

Because the president took action, we see we are in a different place than we were a year ago in gas prices. Eggs, milk, seafood products, all the important groceries, those costs have gone down because of what this president has been able to do, she added.

Ms Jean-Pierre then went on to end the interview.

And, and with that, thank you so much, Mark. Have an amazing, amazing day, she said. A busy phone signal could be heard on the radio show after the press secretary ended the call.

The radio hosts appeared surprised at the way the interview ended.

Mr Winterble went on to tell Mr Garrison: I am nominating you to get a press corps badge, and you need to go to the White House.

Im sorry, but you asked three, four incredibly salient, important questions that are all front of mind, he said, according to Fox News Digital. Nothing out of bounds. No ba-ba-booeying or anything like that, right? And you did it exactly right on. I dont understand the fragility of this person.

Mr Garrison said it was the White House who contacted the radio station for the interview, adding, I was supposed to get more time with her and the fact that, all of a sudden, she decided to just hang up the phone took me by surprise because I had a couple of questions that werent as controversial. But Ill never get to ask them, I guess.

Fellow radio host Pete Kaliner noted that the full interview was about six minutes long.

White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates said in a statement to news outlets that as she often does when the president travels, Karine had multiple back-to-back interviews with radio stations who were each offered 7 minutes. Once the agreed-upon time was over, she called into the next interview so everyone could get their full time.

This particular station chose not to air the full interview and instead artificially attached a sound effect that our phones do not make when calls end, he said.
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A rampaging bear that injured five people in a town in Slovakia has been shot dead.

The bear was captured in a viral video as it charged through the streets of Liptovskom Mikulasi on 17 March.

Ten days later, the bear was shot dead in a local forest on Tuesday.

The countrys environment minister, Tomas Toraba, said a biometrics drone was used to identify the mammal.

In a post he wrote in a post on Facebook thanking those involved in the operation, he said: A bear which injured 5 people in Liptovske Mikulas was successfully shot down yesterday at 21:50. A biometrics drone was used to identify him.

Among the injured in the latest attack are a 49-year-old woman, who was being treated in hospital for a shoulder injury, and a 72-year-old man who suffered a cut on his head.

A 10-year-old girl and two further adults suffered scratches and bruises, authorities said, while a couple pushing their child in a buggy were lucky to escape unharmed.

Authorities had declared a state of emergency on 17 March in the town, with heightened police patrols were put in place in 16 districts across the region to prevent similar attacks.

The countrys Department of Communication and Promotion of the State Nature Protection said the bear was a three-year-old female weighing almost 70kg.

A rampaging bear that injured five people in a town in Slovakia has been shot dead (Independent TV)

Viktoria Capcikova, a spokeswoman for the city, said the bear attacked people on the streets before moving to a nearby shopping centre.

The bear then crossed the road where she injured other people before swimming across the river, at which point the rescue and security forces were able to push the bear into the forest.

The government now wants to introduce a constitutional law to prevent the issue from recurring.

This involves calling for the bears endangered species status to be relaxed so that they can be culled and hunted.

Following the bears rampage, junior environment minister, Filip Kuffa, outlined a draft law to allow bears to be shot outside urban areas under certain conditions. Along with Romania, the Slovakian ministry aims to propose a reclassification of the species at the European Union level.
 Close Zelensky rejects Putins claims that Ukraine involved in Moscow attack

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Russia is using barges in a bid to enhance the defences of one of its ports in the Black Sea, Britains Ministry of Defence has said.

It comes following a number of successful Ukrainian strikes on navy ships in the region. Recent imagery analysis has identified four barges positioned at the entrance to the Black Sea fleet facility of Novorossiysk Sea Port, the MoD said in its latest intelligence update.

This is an effort to enhance the defence of the port against attacks from Ukrainian Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs).

Elsewhere, A Russian cruise missile strike on infrastructure in Ukraines western Lviv region killed one man, while another died in an attack in the northeast, officials said Sunday.

The attack in Lviv destroyed a building and sparked a fire, governor Maksym Kozytskyi wrote on social media app Telegram. He said that rescue operations were being conducted.

In the Kharkiv region, governor Oleh Syniehubov said that an air attack killed an 19-year-old man after a missile hit a gas station.
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The head of Ukraines national spy agency has revealed details of a secretive assassination campaign apparently targeting Ukrainians collaborating with Russia.

In an hour-long televised interview Lieutenant General Vasyl Malyuk, chief of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), spoke about a number of high-profile killings in Russian-occupied territory and Russia itself, including that of a pro-Kremlin military blogger in Vladimir Putins hometown of St Petersburg.

Lt Gen Malyuk claimed very many people responsible for war crimes and attacks against Ukrainian citizens had been targeted. But he said: Officially, we will not admit to this... But at the same time, I can offer some details.

The most high-profile killing he spoke about was that of Ukraine-born Vladlen Tatarsky, a Kremlin propagandist and media personality who had more than half a million followers on the Telegram messenger service.

Tatarsky joined with pro-Kremlin forces invading eastern Ukraine in 2014 after being jailed for robbing a bank.

He was known to have ties with the Wagner mercenary group, a Russian militia that captured the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut last May before staging a mutinous march on Moscow the following month. Lt Gen Malyuk said Tatarsky was targeted for his military service fighting against Ukraine and his calls for the elimination of Ukrainians.

He was killed when he was handed an explosive-rigged statuette in a St Petersburg cafe in April last year. The spy boss claimed operatives had duped an intermediary, a young woman, into handing the statue to Tatarsky. A woman, Darya Trepova, has since been jailed for 27 years over the killing. Trepova told her trial she was following instructions from a man in Ukraine. She told the court she had been gullible and naive to believe him.

Pallbearers carry a picture and the coffin with the body of Tatarsky, at the Troekurovsky cemetery in Moscow last year (EPA)

The SBU would not take credit for the execution but Tatarsky deserved it, Lt Gen Malyuk said, accusing the pro-war blogger of repeated abuse of Ukrainian prisoners of war for Kremlin propaganda.

Another case Lt Gen Malyuk spoke about was Ukrainian parliament member Ilya Kyva, who spoke against Ukrainian independence and was considered a traitor by Kyiv before he was shot dead near Moscow in December. Sources within the SBU had previously told a number of outlets that the service was responsible for the killing.

At the time, Ukraines military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov hinted at the countrys involvement in the killing: We can confirm that Kyva is done. Such a fate will befall other traitors of Ukraine, as well as the henchmen of the Putin regime.

The interview with Lt Gen Malyuk comes as Ukraines air force chief said that Russia had launched 13 Shahed drones at Ukraine overnight, 10 of which were downed in the Kharkiv, Sumy and Kyiv regions.

Anti-aircraft missile units, mobile fire groups, electronic warfare equipment... were involved in repelling the air attack, air force chief Mykola Oleshchuk said.

It was unclear what happened to the other three drones but Kharkiv governor Oleh Syniehubov reported that a school and private home were damaged in Izyum, roughly 30 miles from the eastern frontline, after an enemy Shahed attack took place. One person was killed and another 16 were injured in the airstrikes, officials said.

Kharkiv city, the capital of the region, is one of the most dangerous civilian areas in Ukraine away from the frontline. Hundreds of thousands remain without electricity following a long-range missile and drone attack last week, while vital air raid sirens used to alert civilians of incoming attacks were destroyed over the weekend.

A building in Kharkiv on Wednesday damaged by a Russian drone strike (AFP)

A former Ukrainian officer in charge of anti-missile defences estimated it took just three to four minutes between Russia launching a missile at the city and the subsequent explosion in Kharkiv.

Russian air defence units on Wednesday downed 16 airborne targets around the city of Belgorod in southern Russia, with no injuries reported on the ground, regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said.

Meanwhile, Russias foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova became the latest Russia official to try and suggest that an attack on a Moscow concert hall that killed 143 could be traced to Ukraine. President Putin has previously sought to lay the blame for the attack at the feet of Kyiv and its Western backers without providing any evidence.

The attack has been claimed by Isis, with the US and France saying their intelligence services are clear that is the case. Britains foreign secretary, David Cameron, has also described claims that Ukraine  or the West  were involved in the Crocus City Hall attack as utter nonsense in a post on X.

Ms Zakharova said it was extremely hard to believe that Isis would have the capacity to launch the attack in Moscow  with the Kremlin seeking to justify its now two-year invasion of Ukraine that has been roundly condemned by the international community. The US warned earlier in March that an attack could be imminent.

The official death toll from the Moscow mass shooting stands at 143 dead and 182 wounded. The Investigative Committee, which deals with major crimes, said in a statement that 84 bodies had so far been identified, including the bodies of five children aged nine to 16. It said tests were being carried out to establish the identities of the remaining victims.

However, Russias Baza news service, which has good contacts in Russian security and law enforcement, has claimed there could be up to 95 more people who appeared in lists compiled by the emergency services based on appeals from people about missing relatives. These lists include people with whom relatives have not been able to get in touch since the terrorist attack, but who are not on the lists of wounded and dead, Baza claimed.
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A tourist town in Australias Northern Territory has imposed a two-week curfew after a huge brawl.

The restrictions have been launched in Alice Springs, a day after a mass brawl involving 150 people, many of them armed with weapons.

The curfew will be in force from 6pm to 6am local time for those under 18 years old in the centre of the town, which has a large population of Indigenous Australians and suffers from deep social divisions.

We want people in Alice Springs to be able to walk down the street, feel safe, be able to go to the shopping centre, pick up their kids from school and not be concerned about their own safety, Northern Territory (NT) Chief Minister Eva Lawler told a news conference on Wednesday.

Tuesdays violence was sparked by the death of an 18-year-old man on March 20, which led to a feud between several local families and culminated in the brawl at a pub in the centre of the town, police said.

Police made five arrests and seized 50 weapons from those involved.

The operation will be swift. Well identify whos responsible and theyll be delivered to the court where they can answer for their behaviours, NT Police Commissioner Michael Murphy told reporters.

The town of Alice Springs (Reuters)

A police report into the incident read: Around 4pm, a licensed premises on Todd Street in Alice Springs was the scene of disorder as a group of people criminally damaged the property during a dispute with other people inside the building. Police attended the location and made arrests at the scene.

Just before 7pm, police were called to an address in Sadadeen and encountered about 150 people, some going armed in public and engaging in violent conduct. Police units attended the incident, along with the community engagement team to engage and restore order. Police will allege a car was set alight as well as a mattress inside a nearby premises. Northern TErritory Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and extinguished the fire.

Police have arrested a 16, 18, 19, 31, and 50-year-old male for weapons and other offences relating to the two incidents.

Alice Springs, a remote town in Australias vast Outback region some 2,000 km (1,243 miles) northwest of Sydney, is the gateway to major tourist attractions including the giant red sandstone monolith of Uluru, formerly known as Ayers Rock.

A map of Alice Springs:

A fifth of the 26,000 residents of Alice Springs are Indigenous Australians, who have been historically marginalised since the island continent was colonised by Great Britain in 1788.

The government has for years curbed alcohol sales in the town in a bid to reduce rampant violence and sexual abuse.
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Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun could walk away with a $24m compensation package after quitting following a string of incidents that have sparked major safety concerns.

Mr Calhoun announced on Tuesday he would be resigning from his role as CEO at the end of the year following what he described as a watershed moment for Boeing after a panel on the side of an Alaska Airlines plane blew out mid-flight.

The shocking incident has resulted in investigations from the Federal Aviation Administration, the Department of Justice, and the National Transportation Safety Board.

We must continue to respond to this accident with humility and complete transparency. We also must inculcate a total commitment to safety and quality at every level of our company, Mr Calhoun wrote in a memo posted on Boeings website.

The incident led to the grounding of all Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft, with a preliminary investigation finding that several critical bolts had been missing from the panel before take-off, calling into question Boeings manufacturing practices.

The companys share price also fell by nine per cent following the incident.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun could get $24m compensation package after quitting (Getty Images)

But Boeings problems did not start or end with the Alaska Airlines incident. The company has been embroiled in previous safety concerns over the 737 Max 8 after two of the planes crashed in 2018 and 2019 resulting in the deaths of all passengers and crew.

But despite the companys previous scandals, Mr Calhoun will likely leave his job with a sizeable payout, according to reports.

The Boeing CEO is reportedly guaranteed around $24m when he steps down, thanks to shares he owns and additional stock options.

Mr Calhoun holds nearly 70,000 Boeing shares outright, more than 25,000 phantom shares, and another 175,000 options, Ben Silverman, vice president of research at financial software company VerityData, told Fortune.

Based on the current stock price, Mr Calhoun could rake in $19.2m in payouts over the next ten years.

Meanwhile, if his departure is considered a retirement, he would be entitled to an additional $5m payout based on a portion of restricted stock.

Following the announcement of his resignation, in an interview with CNBC, Mr Calhoun partly blamed his departure on his age, but insisted his decision to step down was 100 per cent his own.

Ive entered my fifth year, he said, referring to his time at Boeing. At the end of this year, Ill be close to 68 years old.

But it is still uncertain if his departure will be considered a retirement after Boeings board extended the CEOs mandatory retirement age from 65 to 70 in 2021.

A Boeing spokesperson told The Independent that details of Mr Calhouns compensation package will be shared in the coming weeks.

Mr Calhoun was paid a base salary of $1.4m in 2022, according to an April regulatory filing. The same year, he made $22.5m overall, Business Insider reported, owing to his stock position.

However, the Boeing CEO missed out on a $7m bonus last year after failing to get Boeings new 777X aircraft into service by the end of 2023.
Rufus Sewell has revealed he obsessively watched Prince Andrews infamous Newsnight interview to prepare for his Scoop role.

The actor, 56, portrays the royal in the upcoming Netflix drama, which focuses on how the BBC programme secured the 2019 interview about Andrews friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

I really obsessively watched that interview, Sewell told Good Morning Britain on Wednesday 27 March.

I spent hours and hours every day trying to work out what he was thinking. When there was a hesitation, a stutter, or a particular movement of the head, what was behind it?




* China has actively expanded its vocational education to align with the demands of enterprises in recent years. According to this year's government work report, the country will redouble its efforts to improve vocational education. Thanks to diverse programs, the country's vocational education has embraced international cooperation.

* Statistics show that in the past decade since the inception of the Belt and Road Initiative, more than 400 higher vocational colleges in China and foreign educational institutions have forged cooperation in running schools, with Luban Workshop established in over 20 countries.

SHENYANG, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Chen Meina, a 29-year-old elderly carer, made a deliberate choice to stay in Germany and continue with her work during the Spring Festival, rather than returning to her hometown in northeast China's Liaoning Province.

"I've been studying and working in Germany for more than five years. I incorporate traditional Chinese medicine nursing skills into my daily work, and many elderly individuals here appreciate it," Chen said.

Chen graduated from Liaoning Vocational College of Medicine in 2018. The institution is run by the provincial government to cultivate highly skilled professionals in nursing, pharmacy and medicine.

In that same year, an educational cooperation agreement was signed between the vocational college and Germany's Oscar Kemmel Vocational College for a nursing talent training program. Subsequently, the first batch of 17 Chinese students pursued studies in Germany, with six opting to serve as elderly care workers in German nursing homes, including Chen.

In recent years, China has actively expanded its vocational education to align with the demands of enterprises. According to this year's government work report, the country will redouble its efforts to improve vocational education. Thanks to diverse programs, the country's vocational education has embraced international cooperation.

CULTIVATING QUALITY PROFESSIONALS

The Luban Workshop exemplifies a mutually beneficial model for international vocational education cooperation. Named after Lu Ban, an ancient Chinese woodcraft master, this workshop offers vocational skills training for local communities. Similar workshops have been established in Thailand, India, Indonesia and other countries.

Statistics show that in the past decade since the inception of the Belt and Road Initiative, more than 400 higher vocational colleges in China and foreign educational institutions have forged cooperation in running schools, with Luban Workshop established in over 20 countries.

Many vocational education programs from China have also been introduced in the Belt and Road participating countries, cultivating high-quality professional employees.

In 2017, the Mombasa-Nairobi Railway, a Belt and Road flagship project jointly built by China Road and Bridge Corporation and the Kenya government, officially opened to traffic. Two vocational colleges from Liaoning sent their staff to Kenya and helped Kenya train over 300 railway talents.

"Recently, we've signed two new international joint education programs, mainly serving the construction of China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and China-Mongolia railway. Compared with previous programs, we are paying more attention to the employment and technical needs of the enterprises this time," said Dong Yanan, vice president of Liaoning Railway Vocational and Technical College.

At present, China has the world's largest vocational education system. According to data released by the Ministry of Education in 2023, there are 9,752 secondary vocational schools in the country, with over 17.8 million students. In 2022, there were 1,521 higher vocational schools with an enrollment of 5.46 million students. These institutions annually produce approximately 10 million high-quality technical personnel.

OVERSEAS PROGRAMS

"Many believe that only students with good academic performance from famous universities have the opportunity to study abroad. Now, we can also study abroad through our own efforts and excellent vocational skills, which is a great encouragement to me," said Chen Xingwang, one of the six students from the School of Economics and Management at Guangzhou Nanyang Polytechnic College who studied in the Republic of Korea last year.

In order to better serve the development of Chinese enterprises overseas, 18 vocational colleges in south China's Guangdong Province have launched 39 overseas education programs.

Shenzhen Polytechnic University has collaborated with enterprises such as China's tech giant Huawei to establish seven overseas vocational education and training centers in five countries including Bulgaria and Germany.

"I would like to thank Guangdong Industry Polytechnic for its professional lectures, and the teachers' ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and enthusiastically makes each class both educational and enjoyable," said Chan Sai Keong, dean of Business, Information and Human Sciences of Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur.

China has also invited its global partners to empower the development of its vocational education.

Since 2013, BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd. (BBA), located in Shenyang, the capital of Liaoning, has run a vocational program. Collaborating with vocational schools, BBA develops industry-relevant courses that align with the needs of both the schools and the enterprise. This initiative aims to offer students more comprehensive practical training and on-the-job internship opportunities.

Currently, two vocational colleges and BBA are jointly building a program. Every year, the company selects some students who will go from vocational colleges and training centers to on-the-job internships, and can get employed after they pass the examinations.

"Thanks to the program, I immediately got a job after graduation," said Sun Haoran, 22, a maintenance worker at the company's production line. "Last year, I spent eight weeks in Munich on the BMW Group's global apprenticeship exchange program. I was exposed to advanced equipment and acquired a deeper understanding of equipment maintenance," Sun added.

Colleges and enterprises in Liaoning have also signed cooperation agreements with educational institutions in some Belt and Road participating countries to build "Mozi workshop." Named after the ancient Chinese philosopher Mozi, also known as Micius, the workshop aims to train skilled craftsmen like Mozi.

"Vocational education exchange is a pragmatic move to meet the development needs of enterprises in the context of economic globalization. It encompasses technical and cultural exchange and dialogue, playing an important role in promoting the development of China and Belt and Road participating countries," said Lao Hansheng, head of Guangdong Lingnan Institute of Technology.

(Video reporter: Zhao Yong; video editors: Liu Ruoshi, Wei Yin, Liu Yutian, Lin Lin, Li Ziwei)
Ukrainian MP Kira Rudik has asked her countrys allies to switch from helping Ukraine fight, to letting us win the war.

She said limitations on issues such as weapons delivery need to be lifted so Ukraine does not have to face Russia "empty-handed".

The People's Deputy of Ukraine also said she understands the strain many are facing under the cost of living crisis, and suggested donating around 50 billion of Russian money frozen in Britain to the Ukrainian war effort.

She said: "Let's make Putin pay for what he broke."
A marine biologist studying Hampshires Langstone Harbour has revealed raw sewage from a nearby treatment plant has left every marine species in the water full of drugs.

New data from the Environment Agency to be released on Wednesday 27 March is expected to show that sewage spills rose to a record high last year.

The sewage treatment plant behind us takes in the waste of half a million people, and when it cant cope with it, it chucks it out here, Professor Alex Ford told Good Morning Britain.

In the marine life, we are finding they are full of drugs - contraceptive pills, antidepressants - every single marine species that weve looked at so far is full of cocaine.
One of the countrys best-known publicans, Charlie Chawke, has secured the green light for a funeral home beside his Goat Bar and Grill, in Goatstown, in south Dublin.

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Co Council has given the funeral home the go-ahead despite opposition from Fanagans Funeral Directors.

Mr Chawke said he was delighted that the council had granted planning permission.

He said: It is always great to get planning permission.

It has come through now, thank God.

Mr Chawke said that a funeral home operating from the ground floor of the former Paddy Power unit at the Goat retail complex would be good for business at the Goat.

He said: I had this idea going back a while that a funeral home would be good for the business where people coming to a funeral can dine in the Goat afterwards.

Mr Chawke said there is plenty of room for a funeral home at the Goat to serve the area.

He said he was disappointed that Fanagans lodged an objection against the planned funeral home at the junction of Lower Kilmacud Road and Taney Road, Goatstown, Dublin 14.

He said: Why anyone should object against it, I dont know.

Mr Chawke said the Chawke Group would not directly operate the funeral home.

He said that he intends to lease the space out to a funeral operator.

Mr Chawke confirmed that he has had positive discussions with a funeral operator who has expressed an interest in running the business.

Asked about a possible appeal by Fanagans to An Bord Pleanala, he said: Hopefully they wont, and leave it as it is and we can get cracking on it.

The council granted planning permission after concluding the funeral home would not detract from the amenities of the area and is consistent with the provisions of the current development plan.

A planning report lodged with the application said Mr Chawke believes that a good-quality, well-run funeral home will complement the Goat/Paddy Power retail complex and he believes that there is a need locally for such a use.

However, in a strongly-worded objection on behalf of Fanagans Funeral Directors, Manahan Planners contended that this application is ill-conceived.

Fanagans pointed out that they operate a funeral home in Dundrum a little more than 1km away from this site.

The objection said there is no local need for an additional funeral home to cater to this suburb of the city.
A farmer uses his tractor to spray hay on a main boulevard leading up to the European Council building in Brussels, Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Dozens of tractors sealed off streets close to European Union headquarters where the 27 EU farm ministers are meeting to discuss the crisis in the sector which has led to months of demonstrations across the bloc. (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert)

The EU's largest farm lobby group Copa and Cogeca has raised concerns over that the exemption of small farmers below 10 ha from CAP inspections could create an unlevel playing field.

It comes after the European Commission made proposals last week to review the CAP with changes aimed at reducing the administrative burden on farmers, ensuring fair global competition and strengthening their position in the food supply chain.

The proposals included exemptions on the rules known as good agricultural and environmental conditions or GAECs, the basic standards in the CAP, which became a target of farmers' protests across Europe, along with rising costs and cheap food imports from outside the EU.

The most significant proposal from an Irish perspective was the suggestion that small farms of under 10ha (24.7ac) would be exempt from controls and penalties related to compliance with conditionality requirements.

The EU said this would significantly reduce the administrative burden related to controls for small farmers who represent 65pc of CAP beneficiaries. Small farms will not be exempted from complying with GAEC requirements, but from controls on these conditionalities and from penalties.

Since the agricultural surface managed by small farmers is limited and penalties are in general low for small farmers, the application of penalties could lead to disproportionate burden for Member States administration, the proposal reads.

In Ireland, there are some 28,154 under 10ha, according to the CSO's census of Agriculture in 2020.

However, Copa and Cogeca, of which IFA is a member, last week sought assurances from the Commission that the exemption of small farmers CAP controls would not lead to more controls on the other farmers, thus creating an unlevel playing field.

The proposals have since been adopted by EU Agriculture Ministers.

In a letter sent to all European agriculture ministers last week, the Group said the proposal 'a step in the right direction' which they said would safeguard the transition to more sustainable agriculture.

Copa and Cogeca believe that by adopting these changes, there will be more flexibility in implementing the policy in a way which considers the pedo-climatic and local conditions and specificities across the EU.

However, it said European farming organisations are asking for a few clarifications and fine-tuning on certain elements, notably on GAEC requirements, a faster procedure for revising strategic plans and its concerns over the exemptions for farms of less than 10 hectares.

The proposals must now be approved by the European Parliament and are expected to be adopted at their plenary on 22-25 April 2024.

The regulation is then to be formally adopted by the Council, signed by the representatives of the Council and the European Parliament and published in the Official Journal. If all goes as planned, the regulation will enter into force by the end of this spring.
The horrific incident has led to widespread shock and sorrow in the Mayo locality and in their hometown of Moycullen, Co Galway, where the family have lived in recent yearsThe crash happened along a straight section of the N17 between Knock and Claremorris shortly after 2pm on Tuesday

Woman and two young girls killed in crash on the N17 at Castlegar in Mayo

The mother and two young girls who lost their lives in a tragic crash on the N17 in Mayo have been named locally.

The horrific incident has led to widespread shock and sorrow in the Mayo locality and in their hometown of Moycullen, Co Galway, where the family have lived in recent years.

Una Bowden (47) was originally from Co Donegal but moved with her husband David Bowden to Moycullen several years ago.

The couples daughters who died along with their mother have been named as Ciara (14) and Saoirse (9).

The collision happened along a section of the N17 between Knock and Claremorris shortly after 2pm yesterday.

The collision involving a lorry and a car occurred on a straight stretch of road

A van was also involved but it is understood the driver took evasive action and ended up in the ditch but managed to avoid colliding with the car or the fuel lorry.

David Bowden has been informed of the tragedy and is returning home from abroad where it is understood he has been working.

The collision happened along a section of the N17 between Knock and Claremorris shortly after 2pm yesterday.

The drivers of the lorry and the van were treated for shock but were otherwise uninjured.

Post mortems of the deceased took place this morning at Mayo University Hospital. Gardai said the results of these post mortems will not be released for operational reasons.

The road remained closed overnight for a forensic investigation but has since reopened.

Gardai have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Investigators have also appealed to the public to not share images of the crash scene.

A local councillor said the whole county was in shock following the crash, as well as deaths in a house fire in the nearby town of Swinford.

Richard Finn said: The whole county is in shock. Its a sad day for Claremorris and of course Swinford. Mayo had a bad run-in today.

Your heart goes out to everybody involved and we want to offer our condolences to everybody involved and to the families, extended families and friends.

Michael Loftus, Cathaoirleach Mayo County Council said that the country was shocked after the accident.

Here at the moment in Co Mayo we are thinking of the families, Michael Loftus told Morning Ireland.

It's a massive shock to us to hear of such an accident. When someone loses their life in a road accident so sad, but when you hear three lives lost this way, so suddenly, you know it creates great sadness in our county and in our country, Mr Loftus added.

Mr Loftus also praised the first responders who attended the scene of the crash.

The stretch of road where the tragedy occurred is a notorious accident black spot and has been the scene of multiple casualties over the years.

The horror crash brings to 52 the number of people who have been killed on Irish roads this year.

There has been an alarming 24pc hike in road deaths in Ireland compared to the same period last year. A total of 52 people have lost their lives on Irish roads so far this year - 10 more than for the same period last year.

Fourteen people died on Irish roads in March alone - which equates to, on average, one death almost every 48 hours.

Co Mayo had 12 road deaths in 2023 according to the Road Safety Authority (RSA). There have been eight deaths in the county this year, including five in the Claremorris area.

The surging road death toll is all the more worrying given that 2023 ranked as the worst year for road fatalities in Ireland for more than a decade.

On January 5, Terence Killeen (38) died following a two car collision on the R331 at Belladaff near Claremorris.

Jimmy Rowe died in a single vehicle crash on the N17 in Claremorris after his car hit flood waters and skidded off the road during Storm Isha on January 21.

On February 21, James Moyle (33) died after he and his niece Croia were struck by a car while out walking in Ballina town.

Kacper Swierkowski (18) died in a single vehicle collision at Cloonkeen on the R309, near Castlebar on March 13.

One county, Kildare has already exceeded its entire 2023 death total in the space of just three months this year.

Kildare recorded three deaths throughout all of 2023 but has already suffered four road fatalities so far this year.

The high March death toll came despite both gardai and the Road Safety Authority (RSA) running a targeted safety campaign.

On January 31, friends Katie Graham (19), Michael Kelly (25) and Daryl Culbert (21) died following a crash on the Wexford Road in Co Carlow.

Schoolboy, Dylan Coady Coleman (10) from Shannon, Co Clare also lost his life last month following a tragic road collision.

Remembered as a loving child, Dylan was an organ donor. His funeral heard how he gave the gift of life to five others through his selfless act.

Current figures indicate that almost 70pc of fatal collisions in Ireland occur between 7pm and 4am.

According to RSA research, the highest risk age among road users in 2023 was those aged 16-25 years.

This group represented 26pc of total fatalities (48 deaths) and the figures represented an overall increase of 23 road user fatalities compared to 2022.

Men are also dying on Irish roads at a rate of five-to-one compared to women.

RSA chairperson Liz O'Donnell warned the recent scale of road fatalities was "a cause of serious concern.
Immigrants would be housed in modular homes instead of private sector accommodation acquired by the State.

New migration rules will be considered by Cabinet today which will see enhanced screening and a legally binding timeframe for decisions on international protection applications.

The cabinet will decide whether to opt into the EU asylum and migration pact which will replace the International Protection Act 2015.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee will seek government approval on the pact and if approved it will be implemented within the next two years.

The average decision time on an international protection application is 18 months. However, under this new pact, asylum applications will be processed within six months.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

For those arriving without a passport, the process will be quicker, and a decision will be made within two months of their arrival at a border. The faster process time will also apply to those who arrive from safe countries.

The pact will also give some member states the option of paying a monetary contribution instead of accepting migrants.

It is believed that plans will also see asylum seekers housed in dedicated accommodation centres while their application is being processed.

Separately, Integration Minister Roderic OGorman will bring proposals for a new migrant accommodation strategy before Cabinet today.

Under the plan, State-owned sites will be used as locations for modular homes, which will house international protection applicants.

The use of modular homes is something European countries like Belgium have implemented to house both Ukrainian refugees and international protection applicants and has been a strategy that NGOs here have called on the government to implement.

Unused office space will also be considered for accommodation as part of the plan.

There will be a move away from the current reliance on the private sector to house those seeking asylum, instead focusing on developing state-owned accommodation that will form the core of the strategy.

In early 2021, Minister O'Gorman published a white paper on phasing out Direct Provision centres in favour of an international protection system by 2024.

However, as a result of the Covid pandemic and the war in Ukraine which saw thousands seeking asylum in Ireland, the plan was delayed.

This new strategy being brought before Cabinet will seek to tackle both the short term crisis faced by Ireland currently and introduce a longer term plan for reforming the accommodation system.

Student accommodation will also be discussed at Cabinet, when Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien and Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris seek Cabinet approval to amend the Residential Tenancies Act in relation to student specific accommodation.

The amendment will mean that those offering students accommodation must offer them contracts that only cover the academic year and students will not be compelled to pay for the summer months to keep their room.

Though students will be able to opt to stay up to 51 weeks of the year, they must also be offered a shorter tenancy option.
Cillian Murphy is set to star in another biopic produced by Universal Pictures following the success of Oppenheimer.

Murphys Oscar-winning performance as the father of the atomic bomb, J Robert Oppenheimer, will be followed by an adaptation of the Mark A Bradley book Blood Runs Coal: The Yablonski Murders and the Battle for the United Mine Workers of America.

He will play American attorney Joseph Chip Yablonski, whose father was a coal miner and trade union leader murdered by a rival in 1969.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

The true crime story follows Yablonskis efforts to take down the corrupt union leader who murdered his father.

Set in Pennsylvania, it will tell the story of one of the most notorious crimes in the chequered history of trade unions in the US.

The Co Cork actor will also be seen in the upcoming historical drama Small Things like These and is set to reprise his role as Tommy Shelby in a Peaky Blinders film.

Murphy will also produce the Blood Runs Coal adaptation. The script is to be written by brothers Jez and John-Henry Butterworth who have written several screenplays together, including the 2014 Tom Cruise blockbuster Edge of Tomorrow.

Production for Murphys collaboration with Netflix Steve will begin this year. He will star as the head teacher at a reform school who wrestles with mental health troubles. The film will also add to Murphys growing number of credits as a producer.

Murphy has a busy schedule following his Academy Award win with a reunion with director Danny Boyle also announced for a sequel to horror classic 28 Days Later.

On board as an executive producer, it hasnt yet been announced if Murphy will reprise his acting role from the 2002 zombie film.
US tourist Stephen Termini suffered "five life-threatening injuries" when he was attacked by three youths in Dublin city centre last year, a court has heard.

The artist and musician, 57, was severely hurt during an incident on the corner of Store Street and Talbot Street in the north inner city on the night of July 19.
The funeral of English heiress turned Provisional IRA member Rose Dugdale has heard she was a true revolutionary and a true legend.

Born in Devon in 1941, Dugdale later settled in Drimnagh. She died peacefully aged 83 at Maryfield Nursing Home in Chapelizod in Dublin on March 18.

Dugdale carried out bombings, raids and robberies during her time in the IRA and served six years in prison from 1974 to 1980 for her role in an 8m art heist and helicopter hijacking.

A service in celebration of Dugdales life was held in the Crematorium Chapel at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin.

A wicker coffin was carried into the chapel led by a bagpiper. Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams and People Before Profit TD Brid Smith were among the mourners.

Former Sinn Fein MLA and MEP Martina Anderson read a tribute to Dugdale at the service, remembering her for her journey from a privileged upbringing to the heart of the republican struggle.

I stand here with a sore yet proud heart, reminded of the remarkable journey I and so many others shared together with Rose in the depths of the Irish republican struggle, Ms Anderson said.

"Through her, intellectually, politically and personally, I learned invaluable lessons, as did many others, about resilience, dedication, speaking up, speaking out and the power of conviction.

"Roses legacy will forever be intertwined with the tapestry of Irelands fight for freedom.

Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams attends the funeral service of veteran republican Rose Dugdale, at the Crematorium Chapel in Glasnevin, Dublin. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

The Oxford graduate was the ringleader of the 1974 IRA raid on the Russborough House estate in Co Wicklow, in which 19 valuable paintings were stolen.

She was involved in other IRA operations during the Troubles, including a failed bid to drop bombs on to a police station in Strabane in Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland, using a helicopter hijacked across the border in Co Donegal.

The republican bombmaker was convicted and sentenced to nine years in prison for her IRA activities. She was pregnant at the time and gave birth to a son, Ruairi, inside Limerick prison.

Her partner Jim Monaghan also reflected on her life, remembering her as a force of nature.

The pair made homemade explosives together, and Monaghan was one of three Irish republicans arrested for training Farc rebels in Colombia.

He recalled meeting Dugdale for the first time in 1985 at a Sinn Fein office and being accused of being sent there by the powers that be.

"That day was the start of a 39-year friendship. Rose was a highly educated woman in politics, philosophy and economics.

"We both had a great interest in socialist politics and she taught me a lot.

Rose Dugdale

Monaghan said his partner was a woman of many talents and well known as an IRA volunteer, but she also taught economics, politics and philosophy.

"She also taught English classes when she was in Limerick Prison. The women that were there, some of them couldnt read, couldnt write," he said.

"She helped them through and she helped them read their letters and helped them write letters.

He said Dugdale had two bracelets on her wrist when she died. The first was made in the colours of the Irish tricolour. It was made by a Farc guerrilla in a Colombian prison and had a picture of Che Guevara on it.

The other bracelet was made in the colours of the Palestinian flag.

Marion Coyle helps remove the tricolour from the coffin of veteran republican Rose Dugdale, at her funeral service at the Crematorium Chapel in Glasnevin, Dublin. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

Christina McAuley, a friend of Dugdales, said her clothes are to be donated to the homeless following her death.

Ms McAuley read the poem The Lion and Albert by Marriott Edgar.

Sinn Fein TD for Dublin South-Central Aengus O Snodaigh read a eulogy for Dugdale.

"Rose was an enigma to the establishment. They couldnt, and cant still grasp, that somebody could turn their back on privilege in order to help the masses, he said.

"If they had spent any time with Rose, they would come away with a clear understanding of how her passion, her drive to help the oppressed, her determination to re-balance the world order was Rose literally putting her money where her mouth was.

"Having enjoyed an early life of privilege in England living with all the trappings of wealth, she went on to reject that life that was being shaped for her and embrace wholeheartedly with no regrets a life of struggle against British imperialism and world imperialism.

"She was a true Irish republican who opposed fascism and racism in all its forms, seeing them for what they are, tools to divide the poor.

Mr O Snodaigh said Dugdale was among a pantheon of Irish heroes who were originally from other countries, alongside former President Erskine Childers.

He told a story of Dugdale in her later years, who asked to canvas for Sinn Fein during a general election despite no longer being steady on her feet.

The decision was taken instead to allow her to canvas from a shop near her home in Drimnagh, where after a day of handing out leaflets, she was frozen solid but had no complaints.

"She was and is a true revolutionary and a true legend, he said.

Dugdales friend Marion Coyle was among those who spoke. Also a former member of the IRA, she served nine years in prison from 1976 to 1985 for the longest kidnapping in the history of the State.

Ruairi Gallagher carries the coffin of his mother Rose Dugdale to the Crematorium Chapel at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

Coyle spoke on behalf of Dugdales son Ruairi Gallagher.

"You will always live on in our hearts and never be forgotten. I love you, ma. Tiocfaidh ar la, Mr Gallaghers wrote in his tribute.

The 1987 Pet Shop Boys song Its A Sin was played at the conclusion of the service.
Pearse McAuley's partner, Mary Shiels, carries a single red rose as his remains are brought from the Church of the Immaculate Conception to Strabane Cemetery. Photo: Jason McCartan Photography

Pearse McAuley, the IRA killer of Garda Jerry McCabe, is "not a republican" and the Tricolour should not have covered his coffin, Sinn Feins health spokesman David Cullinane has said.

But at the same time two Sinn Fein TDs, Matt Carthy and Mark Ward, said they would attend the funeral today of Rose Dugdale, an IRA bomb-maker and kidnapper.

Mr Cullinane said that as well as the domestic violence inflicted by McAuley on Sinn Fein TD Pauline Tully, "there are a lot of issues there.

"He has not been associated with republicanism for a long time. And yes, in part because of what happened to a colleague, I would have no truck with him whatsoever. I don't see him as a republican."

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

But he said the position was different on Rose Dugdale, the British heiress who became a highly-active IRA volunteer.

It was pointed out that Sinn Fein nonetheless demanded his release under the Good Friday Agreement, while party TD Martin Ferris met him after he was eventually freed from prison.

"At a time of the peace process, everybody including the Irish Government, was part of a process to release qualifying prisoners," he said.

He said his generation was not going to reopen or revisit the conflict, but one of those who had "made sacrifices" during it was Rose Dugdale.

"There is a time and a place to bury your dead. There is a lot of healing that has to be done as part of the peace process. There are legacy issues that need to be dealt with, and Sinn Fein has been at the forefront of all of those.

"In a wider sense, look at what we're doing now, with Michelle O'Neill as the First Minister. She's acting as the First Minister for all. That's what republicanism is about.

"Politics has dramatically changed and moved forward across the island because of the efforts that were made."

He said he was unable to attend the Dugdale funeral because of pressure of work, but Matt Carthy TD said he hoped to go.

"I know Rose Dugdale since the 1990s. She was one of the figures who would have been most prominent in advocating the peace process, and for a lot of young republicans she made a very positive contribution."

He said he had attended her wake yesterday "and I do hope to have time to attend her memorial".

Mark Ward TD said he would also be at the funeral because Ms Dugdale was a teacher in his school and a mentor in a really disadvantaged area.

"She always brought hope and optimism to people that just couldn't see the light there. And she probably one of the reasons why I'm sitting here today - so I owe her a hell of a lot and I'll be going."
Derry Girls star Siobhan McSweeney said she went home early from the BAFTAS to cry, just as she did while she was waiting to hear back after her audition for the role of Sister Michael for the hit show.

The Cork native opened up about her iconic role while speaking on an episode of the Dish podcast, with broadcaster Nick Grimshaw and Michelin star chef and restaurateur Angela Hartnett OBE.

I went home early from the BAFTAs. People were still partying. I just felt overwhelmed and deeply, deeply tired. I sort of wanted to go home and have a cry. Not because I was sad, but just the sort of build-up of stuff. The emotional aspect of it all, the 44-year-old said.

She won a BAFTA in 2023 for best female performance in a comedy programme for Derry Girls.

Siobhan McSweeney uses Bafta win for Derry Girls to tell politicians to wise up

McSweeney, a graduate of UCC, secured her first role in 2006 as Julia in the film The Wind That Shakes the Barley, but gained notoriety from Irish audiences between 2018-2022 for the Northern Irish-based Derry Girls.

She spoke on the episode about the casting phase of the Channel 4 sitcom, which she said took producers ages to cast over trying to get the right combination of kids on the show.

I did my audition and I was so nervous. I did it and they were like Yeah, that was really good, and I went, Yeah, did I get it? And they were like, No, well, you know, we'll be in touch. And I went, Yeah, cool, whatever, you know, cool, she said.

While waiting to hear back from the audition, a mutual friend was out having drinks with Derry Girls executive producer Liz Lewin, with her friend inviting Sweeney out to join them for tequila in London.

Despite being hesitant as she didnt want Ms Lewin to think she was out just to say cast me she decided to join them on Old Street and grappling with the urge not to mention the audition or ask if she got it.

It was a good audition. I know who she is. Who the f*** else can play it?

Little did I know they were asking everyone. Literally everyone, because I've heard through the grapevine that the channel thought that Sister Michael was actually an older character, because you would sort of think more stereotypically that a very jaded headmistress would be sort of an older nun, she said.

At the end of the night, Sweeney recalled Ms Lewin saying: Don't worry, we haven't decided.

I just remember going to the loo just to have a cry because of the build-up of emotion around it, because I really wanted it. And then when I got it, it felt like home, she told the Dish podcast.

She also spoke of her role as Mary in the Disney+ show Extraordinary, which is set in an alternative London, where when teenagers hit 18-years-old, they develop a superpower.

It's that wonderful framework where you get to explore the idea of being in your early twenties and feeling like a loser, because all your friends have it sorted and you're the loser who can't do anything, she said.

Since January 2021, Sweeney has been presenting The Great Pottery Throw Down on Channel 4, which she described as a very special show that she feels lucky to work on having previously had no presenting experience.

Host Nick Grimshaw reminded the Corkonian that Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt previously stated at a press event that he was a fan of the show.

On learning that the star watched her show, she said: We were like, what? why? Imagine Brad Pitt, sitting down watching The Great Pottery Throwdown and we're like, Staffordshire Flatbacks and hes like, yeah, I love that she added.

Dish from Waitrose is available on all podcast providers.
A new organisation hopes to reconnect isolated and alone Irish people who are overseas with their families back home, after it was sparked by the case of a man whose death prompted a search for his next of kin.

Erins Call launched this month and comes as another support organisation, Safe Home Ireland, said it was dealing with increasingly complex cases of Irish people wishing to move home from overseas, often alone and in crisis.

In November 2022, the death of John Joseph Gill in England put the focus on elderly Irish people who have been living overseas for many years and who have lost contact with their families.

In Mr Gills case, the 86-year-old died in a nursing home in Birmingham, having spent much of the previous 14 years in a different nursing home facility in the city.

Birmingham City Council issued an appeal to find his next of kin, resulting in the identification of family including a niece who lived elsewhere in the city and who later attended his funeral, and a surviving brother in Canada.

Padraic Grennan, founder and CEO of Erins Call, played a key role in tracking down Mr Gills family and attended his funeral. He said the new organisation, which will offer services on a pro bono basis, would try to reconnect people like Mr Gill with their next of kin before it was too late.

I dont think its ever been done before, he said of the initiative. It is not general genealogy  it is to help people who are in dire need.

A lot of the Irish diaspora who went away fell on hard times and they are embarrassed by it. They dont want to reach out or burden people.

The plan is to tap into the Irish organisations around the world. We are looking at opening an office in New York.

Its just to make people aware that you might not need this service but if the time comes we can step in and help.

Erins Call hopes to receive requests for help from both members of the diaspora and from families here who have lost touch with relatives overseas.

Karen McHugh, CEO of Safe Home Ireland, said Erins Call could provide vital assistance, and noted that her organisation had been in talks with local authorities here to secure social housing for returning Irish people who fit the criteria.

Safe Home Ireland helps repatriate Irish people, often at times of crisis, and has an outreach support element for those who have returned here. But Ms McHugh said that in recent years people seeking help were not just from major UK cities, but from countries such as Sri Lanka, Cyprus and South Africa.

Its the migrants dream, she said of the desire to return home. Often the first or second sentence is I want to die at home.

Safe Home has directly accommodated 2,281 people since it was founded in 2000, mostly through gaining access for people to local authority housing lists.

Among the criteria for inclusion is the person must be over 57, live independently and not have the means to buy or rent long term. She said many returnees were suffering from loneliness and desperation, adding: We would see more layers of complexity than before.
Palestinians inspect the site of an Israeli strike in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, March 27, 2024. Photo: REUTERS/Bassam Masoud

The Government is moving towards formally joining the South African International Court of Justice (ICJ) case against Israels war on Gaza.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said that after examining whether Ireland could intervene, he had been briefed that there is a basis for an intervention and told cabinet colleagues this morning.

South Africa has taken a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing it of a genocide in Gaza.

In January, the Dail passed a motion obliging the Government to strongly consider an intervention in the case as a matter of urgency.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

The Department of Foreign Affairs has since carried out a preliminary analysis of the legal issues arising in the case and consulted with the legal adviser of the South African foreign ministry.

When completed, the Tanaiste will submit the draft Declaration of Intervention for consideration by Government and will then arrange to have it filed with the court in The Hague.

Mr Martin said: Following the Provisional Measures ordered by the Court on 26 January, the Government confirmed its intention to urgently consider filing a declaration of intervention in this case with the International Court of Justice, based on a legal analysis of the Genocide Convention, the Courts provisional measures order and consultation with other Contracting Parties.

That analysis and consultation has now concluded. Ireland will be intervening.

As I said in the Dail last month, intervention as a third party in a case before the International Court of Justice is a complex matter and is relatively rare. Since 1948, only four other interstate cases have been initiated under the Genocide Convention before the International Court of Justice.

"Ireland intervened in one of these - the Ukraine v Russia case  and, after a rigorous and comprehensive process of analysis and consultation over the last six weeks, we have determined that we will do so again in the South Africa v Israel case.

It is for the Court to determine whether genocide is being committed. But I want to be clear in reiterating what I have said many times in the last few months; what we saw on 7 October in Israel, and what we are seeing in Gaza now, represents the blatant violation of international humanitarian law on a mass scale.

The taking of hostages. The purposeful withholding of humanitarian assistance to civilians. The targeting of civilians and of civilian infrastructure. The indiscriminate use of explosive weapons in populated areas. The use of civilian objects for military purposes. The collective punishment of an entire population.

The list goes on. It has to stop. The view of the international community is clear. Enough is enough.

Micheal Martin said he has given legal staff in his department direction to pursue a legal intervention into the South African case at the ICJ (Grainne Ni Aodha/PA)

The Government has taken a strong stance against Israel since the start of the war in Gaza but has faced calls for further action from the opposition and activist groups.

South Africa instituted proceedings at the ICJ, claiming Israel had violated obligations under the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide during military operations following October 7.

South Africa also asked the court to order provisional measures, including an immediate suspension of military operations in Gaza.

On January 26, the court ordered a number of provisional measures, directing Israel to ensure its military does not commit any genocidal acts and to enable the provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance.

The humanitarian situation has since deteriorated with the UN warning that half of the population in Gaza faces imminent famine and 100pc faces acute food insecurity.

Earlier this week, the Tanaiste described Israels announcement that it would block all UNRWA aid to the north of Gaza as completely unacceptable.

UNRWA is the only agency with the capacity to make an urgent humanitarian intervention at scale.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar raised concerns over the Israeli bombardment of Gaza with US President Joe Biden during his recent visit to the White House. Mr Biden has been urging Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu to bring about a ceasefire. He also agreed with Mr Varadkar that a two-state solution for the region is the only way to bring an end to the decades-long violence that has plagued Israel and Palestine.
A CRANE driver accused of an arson attack on a former pub earmarked for homeless accommodation has had his case further adjourned.

Steven McDonnell (49) allegedly caused more than 2m worth of fire damage to The old Shipwright pub in Ringsend in the early hours of New Years Eve.

The building on Thorncastle Street was set alight amid rumours it would be repurposed and used to house migrants.

Staff shortages at Dublin Fire Brigade are impacting services, it has been claimed. Pic: Arthur Carron

Mr McDonnell (49) of Cambridge Park, Ringsend, is charged with causing criminal damage to the former pub by fire. Dublin District Court has heard he is denying the charge.

Mr McDonnell was granted bail when he first appeared in court last week. He is facing trial and the case had been put back to today for the preparation of a book of evidence.

Today, Garda Sergeant Derek Spain asked Judge Treasa Kelly for an adjournment to a date in June. Defence solicitor Holly Laher consented to this on behalf of Mr McDonnell, who was in court and had taken up bail.

Judge Kelly extended the time required for the service of the book of evidence and remanded the accused on continuing bail to June 7.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

On the last court date, Detective Sergeant Jonathan Kelly of Irishtown Garda station said the accused made no reply when charged. In a contested bail hearing, Det Sgt Kelly said in excess of 2m worth of damage was done as a result of the fire, and there was also potential for the fire to spread to the adjoining building where people were residents.

Applying for bail, defence solicitor Tony Collier had said his client had lived at his current address for about 15 years and was married with four school-going children.

The solicitor said Mr McDonnell asserted his innocence in relation to this case, and could be waiting for two years for a trial.

Mr McDonnell was the main breadwinner for his family, held down a responsible job, and had surrendered his passport, Mr Collier said.

The accused, who had no prior convictions, was deeply rooted in his community.

Bail was set in the defendants bond at 250, as well as a 2,500 lodgement or independent surety in that amount.

Under conditions, he must sign on three days a week at his local Garda station, stay away from Thorncastle Street and Fitzwilliam Street, not apply for new travel documents, and have no contact by any means with the pub owner.

The court heard the DPP has directed trial on indictment, meaning the case will be dealt with at the Circuit Court when the book of evidence is ready.

At the time of the fire, the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive was prepared to use the property for homeless families, including some from the local area.
The multi-billion euro MetroLink project would bust not only financial budgets but carbon budgets too, architect and environmentalist, Duncan Stewart, has said.

The television presenter told the planning hearing into the underground rail plan for Dublin city that he believed its cost would be exorbitant, its impact limited and its emissions too high to be justified.

He spoke in favour of an alternative, the Newton Transport Plan drawn up by Tom Newton who described himself as an amateur planner with a lifelong interest in transport.

Mr Newtons plan has three components that he argues would more effectively improve public transport than the 19km of largely underground rail line proposed by MetroLink.

Residents of homes facing demolition for MetroLink to appear at public hearing

He proposes reorganising Dublin city centre buses on a contraflow route around the quays to speed up journeys.

Buses would hug the Liffey, Mr Stewart said, with all stops on the river side where there were no buildings to obstruct flow.

The second component is an extension of the Luas in a ring around the south of the city linking the current stops at the Docklands, St Stephens Green and Fatima.

The third is a Metro Dart, an extension of the Dart line starting at Donabate, further north than the MetroLink proposal, but following roughly the same route as far as Glasnevin.

It would be overground and would use standard rail tracks for connectivity with all other Dart and mainline rail services.

Mr Newton calculates his plan could be delivered faster and for 2 billion compared to the estimated 7.2bn-12.3bn for MetroLink.

Mr Stewart said this would create a transport system that would benefit the whole country.

It uses the best of what there is in the existing rail lines, he said.

MetroLink by comparison was a single, stand-alone project, inflexible, incompatible and incapable of addressing the issues.

Mr Stewart said MetroLink would primarily benefit Dublin Airport.

Why are the taxpayers paying for this when the beneficiaries are the airlines and the Dublin Airport Authority? he said.

Mr Stewart said there was also an unacceptable environmental cost attached to MetroLink.

Huge quantities of carbon-intensive cement and steel would be needed for construction and huge amounts of energy would be needed to dig the tunnels and transport the soil and rock removed.

Underground trains also experienced a drag effect in tunnels and would use more electricity overcoming it.

Mr Stewart cited research from overseas that concluded underground rail emitted 27 times more carbon than overground alternatives.

If we lock ourselves into this project, where would that leave our carbon budgets?

I personally think the project is seriously flawed, he said.

My view is that this project should be withdrawn at this stage and redesigned.

Project developers, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, rejected the claim that MetroLink would be stand-alone, stressing it would connect at interchange stations with the planned Dart+ West and Dart South West projects.

They also said that some tunnelling would still be needed under Mr Newtons plan but the size of the tunnels would have to be much larger if they were to accommodate standard rail lines.
Photojournalists covering protests in Coolock have been abused, intimidated and threatened by elements at the anti-immigrant camp to the point where they have been forced to withdraw, the head of a leading photo agency has said.

Up to 1,000 people attended a protest in the north Dublin suburb last Sunday over plans to repurpose a former warehouse to house international protection applicants.

Men on horseback were pictured on the main road as part of the demonstration, leading to major traffic disruptions in the area.

In a statement, Eamonn Farrell, the editor-in-chief of RollingNews.ie said gardai must take action or coverage of such events will cease due to serious threats.

"Over the last few days several of our photojournalists have been abused, intimidated and threatened by elements at the anti-immigrant camp in Coolock, while carrying out their legitimate function of reporting on a protest taking place in public, Mr Farrell said.

The threats were serious, forcing the journalist to withdraw. This development by far-right activists is gradually getting to a stage where, if action is not taken by the gardai to protect journalists going about their work, coverage of these events will cease and the public will be deprived of seeing and hearing what is happening in their own country.

"Such a development is the fist step in the erosion of democracy.

It comes as local councillor Daithi Doolan this week called the demonstration in Coolock unacceptable at a meeting of the Dublin City Joint Policing Committee.

Its anti-community, its anti-demographic. It needs to be challenged; we need a strategy. This is not normal political activity, this is not normal politics or demos or marching, or picketing, he said.

"The level of violence weve seen over the past 12 to 18 months is unacceptable.

"These people feel as if they can hold communities at ransom, divert buses like they did at 11.15pm when people were coming home.

One of my colleagues had to guide the bus driver away from the blockage, through housing estates to get to their destination. Thats no way to run a city.

"Its preventing children from coming home from sporting events, preventing people from going about their lives.

Garda Assistant Commissioner for the Dublin Metropolitan Region Angela Willis told the meeting that protests in Coolock have escalated.

Up to 1,000 people were protesting at a potential place for international protection migrants to be put into a facility out there. We have a strategy; we have a plan in place around it, Ms Willis said.

"Until someone commits a criminal offence, our hands are tied, theres nothing we can do.

People encourage others to protest at something they believe is a legitimate concern for that community, we become the facilitators and weve a legal obligation to facilitate peaceful assembly.

Despite what past anyone has, they have an entitlement, under the Constitution and under the European Convention of Human Rights to peaceful assembly. Until a criminal offence is committed, theres very little for us to do only to facilitate the protest and prevent disruption to traffic.
Leo Varadkar attends what is likely to be his last Cabinet meeting

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he is confident the country is in good hands before attending what is likely to be his last Cabinet meeting before he steps down.

A week ago, Mr Varadkar surprised the Irish political system by announcing he was stepping down as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael.

Further and Higher Education Minister Simon Harris was declared Fine Gael leader on Sunday after other heavyweights in the party said they would not run.

When the Dail returns from the Easter recess on Tuesday, April 9, it will vote on whether Mr Harris will become the next, and youngest ever Taoiseach.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

On his way into Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Mr Harris said he aims to meet with the other coalition party leaders, Tanaiste and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan.

He also said he would look to turbo charge the programme for government.

Ahead of Cabinet, Mr Varadkar was seen greeting Mr Harris in front of Government Buildings.

Speaking to reporters, Mr Varadkar said this would probably be his last Cabinet meeting, and based on a rough count, it is his 650th one.

He added it was quite a busy one as ministers tried to get things approved before the changeover.

When it was put to him that people were finding it difficult to accept there was no scandal or disquiet in Fine Gael that led to his resignation, he said: I know people struggle to accept that politicians tell the truth.

Almost all the time we do, or at least what we believe to be the truth. So, the reasons are the ones that I set out, and it is as simple as that.

Mr Harris told reporters there are real areas that he wants to make progress on.

What in the programme for government could be turbocharged, that could be accelerated, that could be delivered quickly for people? And are there new areas that I as party leader want to outline in terms of the vision for Fine Gael?

Asked about the possible reshuffle among Fine Gael ministers, he said: Im not there at all in my head yet.

What I want to do today is endeavour to meet with my fellow party leaders, with the leader of the Fianna Fail party, the Tanaiste, and the leader of the Green Party Minister Ryan.

He added: I understand, respectively, why the individual appointments matter, and of course they do. But for me right now, the most important thing is policy, what can we get done for the Irish people, because I think theres a real sense out there that people want delivery.

They want politicians to get back to bread-and-butter issues, roll up our sleeves and get stuck in, and from day one thats what Ill do.

Mr Varadkar said he had no advice for Mr Harris about ministerial appointments, but he did have advice for party members.

He said: Rather than giving Simon Harris advice, Id just ask other people in the parliamentary party to give him a fair go.

There are lots of people who are going to be disappointed and thats just the nature of these things.

Dont take it personally. Buckle down, work hard, and as I probably helped to demonstrate in the past couple of weeks, opportunities arise in politics all the time.

Asked if he felt relief going into his last Cabinet meeting, Mr Varadkar said its too early to say.

If there is one thing it is confidence, confidence that theres a really good team there and they will continue the work that Ive been part of for the past 13 years. The country is in good hands.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said his constituency colleague Mr Harris will be Wicklows first taoiseach.

Ive seen the hard work, Ive seen the energy he brings to his role as minister and Ive no doubt hes going to do the same in terms of his role as Taoiseach.
A COMMERCIAL building in Dublin converted into an unauthorised short-term residential letting by a firm linked to landlord Marc Godart lacked a range of fire safety measures including an alarm system and viable escape routes, a court heard.

Dublin City Council (DCC) prosecuted Green Label Short Lets Ltd for failing to comply with a fire safety notice issued over a "potentially dangerous building" on Beaver Street, Dublin 1.

The case resumed at Dublin District Court, where Judge Anthony Halpin ordered the property firm to donate 500 to charity and pay 3,884 toward the council's costs.

The offence is contrary to the Fire Services Act.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

DCC's barrister Christopher Hughes said the case centred on a building, comprising Unit 1, Block G, The Foundry, on Beaver Street.

Mr Hughes outlined the facts, telling Judge Halpin that the company failed to comply with the notice issued following an inspection on June 20 last year.

The building had been a ground-floor commercial unit, but it was converted into a residential unit comprising six bedrooms. The council's warning required residential use "to cease" until matters specified in the notice were addressed.

"And those matters required the installation of a fire detection and an alarm system complying with the requisite standards throughout the unit: a viable internal escape route, it required emergency lights and escape signage to be installed complying with requisite standards throughout the unit, it required a protected escape route to be provided to the unit with 30-minute fire resistant construction and FD30 fire door sets," Mr Hughes said.

"It required the kitchen to be composed of 60-minute fire-resistant construction; it required all doors on the escape route to be fitted with simple fastenings so they could be operated in the direction of an escape without the use of a key, he added.

The court heard it was subdivided into two parts, and the safety notice "required the walls separating the two units to be constructed in such a way to achieve minimum sixty-minutes fire resistance, and it required an electrical system to be examined, tested and certified to the requisite standards and required a fire safety certificate to be applied for and granted in respect of the unit."

Mr Hughes said a further inspection occurred on October 16, and at that time, those issues hadn't been complied with, resulting in the court proceedings.

Defence barrister David Staunton pleaded for leniency. He acknowledged that "it was an unauthorised development because of the short-term letting aspect of it. And so there has been a change of use."

But he added that the company has engaged with an architect to carry out the remedial works.

Judge Halpin noted that the firm has no prior convictions under the Fire Safety Act.

Mr Staunton said they were serious matters but pleaded with the judge to note his client agreed to pay the council's costs and submitted that the guilty plea was of assistance.

Had the case been contested, Judge Halpin said, it could have taken a "chunk" of the court's time. He said he would not record a conviction by striking out the case on June 18 if the company paid the costs and donated 500 to the Little Flower Penny Dinners charity.

Last month, Mr Godart, a Luxembourg businessman with significant property holdings in Ireland, had another prosecution dropped for "egregious" breaches of planning laws with unauthorised Airbnb lettings in Dublin.

However, two firms he directs, including Green Label Short Lets Ltd, accepted responsibility; they were fined 7,500 and agreed to pay "substantial" legal costs.

DCC also brought those proceedings before Dublin District Court.

That case heard by Judge Mark OConnell stemmed from complaints about unauthorised short-term lettings, booked through the Airbnb website, at three properties in Dublin 1: 11 Capel Street, Block G, The Foundry, Beaver St, and Unit 2A, The Forge, Railway Street.

The offences were detected following inspections between June 4 and 6 last year, which revealed that some of the bedrooms were windowless and others in former shopfronts.

A council inspector found several tourists from Ireland, mainland Europe, and North America had used them for one to seven days.

By the time of last month's hearing, work had already taken place or was about to start to bring them in line with regulations for short-term lettings.
Coroner records verdict of death by medical misadventure in case of Martin Abbott (65)Daughter warns the circumstances of her fathers death must serve as an urgent catalyst for change in Ireland's healthcare system

Martin Abbott, who died in the A&E at University Hospital Limerick

A man may have been lying dead for over an hour on the floor of University Hospital Limerick's emergency department before he was discovered, and could not be ventilated by a doctor because rigor mortis had already set in.

The revelation came as the daughter of the late Martin Abbott (65) warned a Limerick Coroner's Court inquest that she wants the circumstances of his death to serve as an urgent catalyst for change in Ireland's healthcare system.

The death of Mr Abbott prompted a full systems analysis review at UHL.

Limerick Coroner's Court recorded a verdict of death by medical misadventure as Coroner John McNamara warned that while Limerick has a proud reputation on the hurling field, UHL "is in the news for all the wrong reasons (because of) overcrowding.

"It all goes down to overcrowding," he said as he stressed that the verdict was not a finding of fault or blame with hospital staff or any other body.

Mr Abbott's daughter pleaded for change so no other Irish family suffers their needless loss.

"I just do not know how many more people have to die before the system changes," Ann-Marie Abbott warned.

The coroner heard that conditions in UHL's emergency department over December 16/17 2019 when Mr Abbot died were "very challenging".

There were 141 patients in the emergency department on December 16/17, many acutely ill and on trolleys.

There were 54 patients in Zones B and C of the emergency department alone - with each nurse on duty being responsible for nine seriously ill patients.

Mr Abbott, who had a complex medical history, had his vital signs checked by nursing staff at 3am on December 17.

He had spent three days in UHL on a trolley waiting for a hospital bed.

The Shannon resident had been admitted to UHL on December 14 after complaining of pain, fever and diarrhoea.

Mr Abbott had received a kidney transplant several years before and, because of the steroids and anti-rejection medicines he was on, was considered immuno-suppressed and was placed in a cubicle in the emergency department on his own as he awaited a ward bed.

However, he was found lying face-down on the floor beside his trolley in a cubicle at 4.40am.

He was pronounced dead at 4.55am - with the inquest hearing that a ventilation or airway tube could not be inserted because the former taxi driver's face and neck were rigid with rigor mortis.

Pathologist Dr Gabor Laskai said rigor mortis or postmortem rigidity usually sets in two hours after death.

However, that timeframe can be shortened due to factors such as fever, severe shock or sepsis.

The inquest heard it was possible that Mr Abbott may have been dead on the emergency department floor for over an hour before he was discovered by shocked nursing staff.

Ann-Marie Abbott - who described herself as "a Daddy's girl" - said no one should endure what her family went through over the circumstances of her father's death.

"In my experience, nobody should go into a hospital, to be diagnosed with a treatable condition and die in that hospital surrounded by nurses and doctors," she said.

"I believe the improper monitoring of his symptoms, a failure to review him at timely intervals, the misrecording of vital data and the fact that he was left unattended for such a long period of time when he should have been out of the accident and emergency unit and in a suitable ward were all contributors to my father's death."

"I sincerely hope that through uncovering the truths revealed in this inquest, UL Hospital Group can glean valuable lessons to prevent further needless tragedies.

"Dad's death should not be in vain but serve as a catalyst for meaningful change and improvements in healthcare practices and management to ensure the well being safety of all patients."

Ann-Marie and her mother had spent hours with Martin in UHL over the three days - but she admitted she was "uneasy, concerned and worried" leaving him on December 16, afraid that he was not being looked after correctly.

She told the inquest her family had also endured being told her father had suffered a fracture to his C6 vertebrae.

It later transpired that his vertebrae had not been fractured but that the ligament surrounding it had been torn.

The young woman - who only celebrated her 30th birthday with her father a few weeks before his tragic death - works for the HSE.

"I am here today as a voice for my father - and I do not want to be vilified for doing so in my professional career, she said.

Barrister Luan O'Braoinain SC, for UHL, acknowledged to the inquest that shortcomings had occurred in Mr Abbott's care.

"We acknowledge deficits in the care we gave to Mr Abbott," he said.

"I have been asked to repeat that acknowledgement and to apologise again to the family for these deficits."

Maria Lane BL, for the Abbott family, instructed by Caitriona Carmody solicitor, said the family had waited over four years for a public acknowledgement and apology of the deficits in care provided for Mr Abbott.

UHL had apologised for its care failings following the November 2021 external report.

"His care was severely compromised. It was not escalated. There was a lack of attention to what medical doctors had diagnosed as the treatment he required," Ms Lane said.

Ms Lane also queried the length of time Mr Abbott lay undiscovered on the floor of the emergency department.

She claimed there was "a complete breakdown" of communication between the nursing staff and the medical team in respect of his care.

An external report into the incident has made a total of 26 recommendations in respect of UHL - many of which identified overcrowding in the hospital as a serious issue.

Action has been taken on all bar two of the recommendations.

Dr Laskai said that Mr Abbott had died from acute cardiac failure against a background of pneumonia, severe arteriosclerosis and hypoxia.

The pathologist said that the ligament tear near the vertebrae most likely occurred when Mr Abbott fell from his trolley onto the floor.

However, he stressed that this was not a factor in his death.

Mr Abbott was on two different types of antibiotics after being diagnosed with a Legionella infection which had caused Legionella pneumonia.

However, the inquest also heard that a cardex - a special record of the medicines administered to a patient - had been lost and not found in respect of his treatment.

Dr Liam Casserly, a renal specialist who had treated Mr Abbot for many years but was not on duty on the night of December 17, said the loss of such items in a busy and overcrowded emergency department was not unusual.

"We see this regularly," he warned.

"It is very difficult when the staffing levels are low and you have a high number of critically ill patients."

Dr Casserly said the key issue with Mr Abbott was that there should have been an escalation of his treatment given his deteriorating condition.

Mr Abbott's oxygen saturation levels had dropped from the high 90spc into the mid 80spc and Dr Casserly said that should have been "a red flag" that evening.

He had been assessed at a care level of six, which should have warranted hourly checks.

His vitals were checked at 3am but he was not checked again until he was discovered at 4.40am unresponsive on the floor of the emergency department by his trolley.

"He was monitored but he could have been monitored more regularly," he said.

"Escalation is the decision that should have been taken. A re-evaluation was warranted at that point. What should have been done was that they [the medical team] should have been contacted for a re-evaluation and a number of investigations including a chest X-ray."

Dr Casserly said issues like the misplaced cardex happen with overcrowded conditions.

"But these are the problems you have with an overcrowded accident and emergency department, he said.

UHL nurse Ann-Marie Mahony said conditions in the emergency department that night were challenging.

She broke down when she described the scene as nurses discovered Mr Abbott and desperately tried to revive him.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 28th

Nurse manager Hazel Banks said staff were so upset that they had to have two special briefing sessions over the next day.

"Staff were very distressed," she said.

Registrar Dr Ronan Callanan was immediately called to the scene in the emergency department at 4.40am in a bid to help resuscitate Mr Abbott.

"There was rigidity in the face and neck indicative of rigor mortis," he explained.

That prevented a ventilator tube or airways tube being inserted.

Mr Abbott was pronounced dead at 4.55am.

Mr McNamara returned a verdict of death by medical misadventure and said he supported all 26 recommendations in the UHL review report.

"He [Mr Abbott] should have been seen more frequently - his case should have been escalated," he said.

The Abbott family, speaking through their solicitor Caitriona Carmody after the verdict, said they welcomed the coroner's ruling and his comments on UHL overcrowding.

Mary and Ann-Marie Abbott were too upset to personally comment.
A minor ailments scheme  whereby pharmacists can prescribe and dispense medication without a patient first going to the doctor  will be introduced by Sinn Fein should they be in Government.

The announcement was made today by spokesman David Cullinane as he unveiled the party's new policy document to improve local GP and health services.

Mr Cullinane said the minor ailments move would be discussed with GP organisations, but was being backed by the Irish Pharmaceutical Union. It had the power to reduce the numbers waiting in GP surgeries.

He said he could offer no specifics as yet, but the party was thinking of areas like respiratory infections whereby people had to first pay 70 to a GP for permission, through a prescription, to get their antibiotic.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

There were also long-term or congenital illnesses, he acknowledged, where patients could be given extended prescriptions. The effective power of even re-fill prescriptions is only six months -- although the Government is already studying their extension to twelve months.

The current system of people having to attend doctors' surgeries -- where they could infect other people waiting if they have a cold or 'flu -- "doesn't make sense," he said.

Mr Cullinane said Sinn Fein would scrap the recruitment embargo in Health, pointing to the contradiction of the Government here funding Northern Ireland training places if the graduates commit to working for a time with the HSE in the Republic.

He said the health system here could not even stand still because the Government had restricted its allocation in 2024.

But he pointed out that Sinn Fein, by contrast, had proposed a 1.1 billion increase for the health service this year to meet needs and demand.

In Government it would step up that commitment, he said, "although I am a firm believer in efficiency. We should root out wasteful spending."

There are commitments to increased spending and investment across all areas of the health service, and a plan to have directly-salaried GPs who will work for the State.

Mr Cullinane was asked if he could give a tax-neutral guarantee to PAYE workers under a Sinn Fein administration, given the sheer breadth of the costly commitments he outlined.

He replied: "Yes. No worker who earns less than 140,000 a year will pay any extra income tax under Sinn Fein."

He added: "The vast majority of working people will be better off under Sinn Fein."
TU Dublin president Professor David Fitzpatrick told staff that it was true that the University is facing a deficit situation for the financial year 2022/23.

The president of TU Dublin has resigned and will leave his post at the end of May.

Professor David FitzPatrick is leaving amid controversy at the institution formerly called DIT over a budget deficit of 8.6m at the Technological University.

This afternoon Prof FitzPatrick wrote to staff to say he recognised that this is an appropriate time for new energy to take the reins and that he will be taking up the role of provost and chief executive of University of Nottingham Malaysia.

Last month, the Higher Education authority (HEA), which oversees the countrys third-level colleges, told TU Dublin that it had serious concerns with the apparent lack of urgency, responsiveness and conduct by the Governing Body to address [its finances] in a timely and constructive manner.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

In an unprecedented move, the HEA used its powers to ask TU Dublins governing authority to carry out a review of how it was managing and controlling its finances.

Following this, the academic staff union expressed no confidence in the universitys leadership.

Prof John Doran, the head of the science and health faculty at TU Dublin and a long-standing DIT and TU Dublin staff member, will now take over as the interim president.

Prof FitzPatrick had been president of TUD since it became a university in 2019 and was previously the head of the engineering departments at University College Dublin and Trinity College Dublin.

In his letter to staff on Wednesday, Prof FitzPatrick confirmed he would be taking up the new post at University of Nottingham Malaysia, saying he had reached a decision about his future over the summer months.

He said that TU Dublin was now five years old, adding: Over that time, I have been privileged and honoured to be President of TU Dublin, working with you all in the creation of Irelands first and largest Technological University.

"On the back of leading the university in its formative phase and reflecting on what we have collectively achieved, notwithstanding the current financial headwinds we face, I am immensely proud of what TU Dublin has become and firmly believe in our ability to deliver both nationally and regionally.

Explaining his decision to leave, Prof FitzPatrick said: During the course of last summer, while reflecting on our progress, together with the experiences and perspectives I have gained, I reached a decision about future roles and responsibilities that I would like to engage with.

He said he would take up the role of provost and CEO of the University of Nottingham Malaysia from June 1 this year, thereby furthering a long held ambition to live and work abroad in an International education setting.

Prof FitzPatrick concluded his letter to staff: Having put the key elements of a platform for growth in place, I also recognise that this is an appropriate time for new energy to take the reins. However, in the time before I stand down, Im committed to ensuring that we develop a financial recovery plan that will demonstrate a sound financial footing.

In an email to staff, chair of the TUD governing body Charles Larkin thanked Prof FitzPatrick for his contribution to the university, particularly for his role in the development of TU Dublin following the merger of DIT, IT Blanchardstown and IT Tallaght, and wished him luck with his new role.

Dr Larkin said acting president Prof Doran will be the lead member of the executive team who will co-ordinate the delivery of the TU Dublin recovery plan in partnership with TU Dublin Governing body members to put the university back on a sustainable financial footing.
Venice is pressing ahead with its plan to become the first city in the world to charge admission for daytrippers. It will become a city of culture, cuisine and charges.

Starting on April 25, visitors to the historic heart of Venice must pay 5 to access the city between 8.30am and 4pm on key days in spring and summer.

A leading city transport and tourism official, Arianna Fracasso, said the scheme is aiming to safeguard the city from overtourism.

Around 30 million tourists visit Venice in a typical year  with about seven out of 10 (or 21 million) staying only for the day. Just before the Covid pandemic, Unesco warned the citys status as a World Heritage property is in jeopardy.

While tourists who stay overnight in Venice hotels will be exempt from the charge, they will still need to register online and obtain a code that will allow them to pass checkpoints.

Ms Fracasso said: Its like a museum in the open air, so we want to safeguard it.

During 2024, charges will apply on 29 days. The first is Italys Liberation Day, commemorating the struggle of the Italian resistance movement against fascism during the Second World War.

The charge will apply for the following 10 days, up to and including Sunday, May 5.

Visits on the seven subsequent weekends, up to and including Sunday, July 14, will also be subject to the fee.

Its an experimental thing just for this year, Ms Fracasso said. Next year, maybe it will be changed.

Unesco warns that Venices Outstanding Universal Value, the hallmark of every World Heritage property is in peril.

Cruise ships were banned from docking in the historic centre of Venice in 2021 in response to a request from the UN body that seeks to protect cultural heritage.

But Unesco remains concerned about overtourism, the potential negative effects of new developments [and] the lack of an integrated management system.

How will the system work?

Any visitor who wishes to access the historic heart of Venice  pretty much anywhere in the city apart from the Piazzale Roma transport access area and the offshore islands  between 8.30am and 4pm will need to register online, in advance, at cda.ve.it/en.

You will need a QR code on your smartphone or printed out to get through what are expected to be checkpoints at the entries to the ancient city.

If you simply want to pay the fee, clicking on Pay the access fee will take you through a fairly straightforward process. One tricky aspect is that you have to pretend you have read the privacy policy (all in Italian) by clicking on it, before you can enable a checkbox.

How can I dodge the fee?

Be under 14 (with proof if you look as though you might be older).

If you live in, or were born in, the Municipality of Venice you can gain exemption simply by presenting a document certifying it.

Be a holder of the European Disability Card or their accompanying caregiver.

Stay overnight. Guests in hotels anywhere in the Municipality of Venice  which includes the islands and the mainland hinterland around Mestre  are entitled to exemption including the day you check in and the day you check out. This requires you to click on I am a guest in an accommodation facility located in the Municipality of Venice. You fill in the usual personal details. Then you have less than a minute to make a call from the registered smartphone to an Italian number. It is said that this does not go through nor results in any charge.

Note that guests in Venice hotels must pay an accommodation tax, usually included in the final bill.

Is an access fee going to catch on elsewhere?

The unique geography of Venice, comprising an archipelago accessible only by bridge or water, makes it one of the few cities where levying a charge is feasible. But other cities with concerns about overtourism, including Amsterdam, Barcelona and Dubrovnik, will be watching developments closely.
Students are at risk of contracting measles and should get vaccinated. Stock image

In April last year, Ireland had the lowest vaccination rate against measles in western Europe, and the warning of the threat of outbreaks due to pockets of unvaccinated people in the population was clear.

The uptake of the first dose of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR1) vaccine by two years of age in the first quarter of 2023 was as low as 80pc in some regions.

In 1990, following two years of modelling research, I estimated that 96pc of all children here should be vaccinated at as early an age as possible to eradicate the disease and stop more serious infections.

Given these early warning signs, it was sad to hear last month of the unnecessary death of an adult in Ireland from measles.

Because of Covid-19, we are all aware of the risks of infectious diseases to older and younger populations and the importance of the R number (the reproductive number) in the spread of a disease.

For an infection like Covid-19 or measles, R is defined as the expected number of secondary infections produced by one infectious individual. A disease such as measles will maintain itself within the population provided the R number is greater than or equal to one. That is to say, each infectious individual must infect at least one susceptible person. If it is less than one, the disease will die out.

If measles is circulating among adults, and particularly students (as predicted given current low vaccination rates), and we estimate the average age of a student as 21, we can estimate that the current R number is almost four  a long way from less than one. If the disease is circulating primarily among young children, R will be much higher. The median age in a 2016 outbreak in Ireland was eight, giving an R value of approximately 10. In other words, for every child infected with measles, they could potentially infect 10 and more people.

Before the introduction of the MMR1 vaccine to Ireland in 1986, the average age of infection for measles cases here was approximately three. If we return to such a low average age of infection, the potential is that the R number could increase to as high as 26  each person infected could infect 26 and more people.

However, a likely scenario is that the average age of infection will be high, and because of acquiring measles at an older age, there will be more complications in those infected.

Given families will be travelling and getting together over the Easter holidays and then the summer holidays, the potential for the spread of measles is great.

Measles is our current challenge, but the BCG vaccination for children of another disease, TB, ceased in Ireland in 2015 due to a lack of vaccine supply.

A recent study by my co-authors, Sarah Jackson and Zubair Kabir, has found a significant decline in cases of childhood TB among children born during universal vaccination.

This is a good-news story. Unfortunately, we also found a small increase in paediatric TB cases born after vaccination ceased. There is a need to introduce a selective BCG vaccination programme for children particularly at risk. This includes those living in potentially overcrowded communal settings.

The early warning signs are there for the need for childhood vaccinations.

Considering that complications with measles infections are greater for older people, and given the potential scale of the current R number, it is urgent that students are aware of the symptoms of measles (aches, pains, runny nose, tiredness, loss of appetite and development of a rash some days later) and that parents consider vaccinating their babies to avoid unnecessary suffering for their future adult children.

Catherine Comiskey is Professor in Healthcare Modelling and Statistics, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin
Real-time video feeds have brought the world pictures of the starving children in Gaza. But unlike the fleeting pangs of conscience we may feel, their hunger pains endure.

Hopefully news that the United Nations Security Council has demanded a ceasefire in the war-ravaged enclave will mark at least a beginning to the end of the suffering.

It is the councils first demand to halt the fighting. Washington did not veto the move, signifying its growing divergence with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahus ultra-hardline approach.

Tel Aviv registered its displeasure at the abstention by cancelling a top-level meeting with Biden administration officials. But now is surely a time for ramping up engagement, not shying from it.

More than 32,000 Palestinians have been killed, most of them women and children. We are facing the immediate grim prospect of famine claiming hundreds of thousands more.

It does not take a military historian to recognise that starvation and disease were the original weapons of mass destruction. Far from consigning this horror to the past, our genius for destruction has developed a high-tech tool box to accelerate the process, as we have witnessed in wars around the globe.

To date, Israel has been impervious to ever more catastrophic warnings on the humanitarian consequences of intensifying attacks.

The UN call comes as its UNRWA agency chief, Philippe Lazzarini, revealed it has barred it from making aid deliveries in northern Gaza.

This is where the threat of famine is at its highest.

Tel Aviv even insists it is intent on an all-out assault on Rafah, with its 1.4 million refugees already jammed into a tiny area, fleeing the bombardment.

All imports of food and medicine into Gaza were stopped by Israel at the start of the war. Later it allowed aid deliveries in, but agencies say security checks, and trying to get through the fighting, make the task next to impossible.

Nothing justifies denying men, women and children their right to food and medicine, said Jordans foreign minister Ayman Safadi.

UN secretary general Antonio Guterres has doubled down on the need for the ceasefire resolution to be implemented. He also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. But thus far, Mr Guterres has been a voice in the wilderness.

People around the world are outraged about the horrors we are all witnessing, he said recently. I carry the voices of the vast majority of the world. We have seen enough. We have heard enough.

His frustration is understandable. It is time for Tel Aviv to be pressed to pay attention. A path to stop the slaughter and prevent famine must be found.

Gandhi once said: The human voice can never reach the distance that is covered by the still small voice of conscience.

The chance for the UNs conscience to assert itself must not be missed.
A poem has done its work when it charms, but prose, they tell us, must convince. So when Helen McEntee took to the floor to win over delegates at the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) annual conference in Westport, Co Mayo, she had no mean task.

Fine Gaels banner, which once flew high as the party of law and order, had been dragged through the mire in the Dublin riots.

The Justice Ministers dismissal of doubts about our capital being a safe city, as Garda cars and buses were burning in the street, did not help.

But to be fair to Ms McEntee, she was attempting to project authority and control.

Unfortunately for her, for those few hours at least, both appeared to have slipped into the hands of the mob. People wanted reassurance, and felt real concerns were being rebuffed.

As Simon Harris takes over, there is talk of going back to core values and the grassroots. But what people need today is to feel confident the protections to deal with present, and future, dangers are in place.

Ms McEntee told delegates the use of facial recognition technology in the investigation of crime is being expanded to include attacks against Garda members.

We do not want a Big Brother surveillance society, but the effective and, critically, appropriate use of such cameras, could be useful.

However, the mandatory sentencing for attacks on emergency workers, including gardai, would not be on the table, Ms McEntee said.

This was something the AGSI wanted.

The minister cited the separation of powers, and the fact that she did not want to be dictating to judges, for the omission.

On the finer points of law, she may well be right. However, many of those in her audience were probably remembering the scenes of a lone garda being attacked from all sides, trying to fight off a gang of thugs.

Of the many things going through that courageous gardas mind, as he battled to save himself, its a safe bet the sanctity of the separation of powers was not one of them.

As has often been stated, we all sleep safely in our beds because brave men and women are on the streets between midnight and dawn, keeping the peace.

Communities have faith in law and order, when they feel its presence.

Conversely, they feel threatened in its absence.

Gardai have repeatedly been understaffed, and despite recruitment drives and promises to bolster numbers, they are still far from where they need to be.

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris rightly takes pride in the fact that An Garda Siochana is one of the most respected police services in the world.

All the more reason not to take it for granted.

Complacency and indifference are often cited as the greatest accomplices to the spread of crime. The soundbites have been plentiful, but only substance will convince when it comes to meeting commitments.
I would like to congratulate Frank Coughlan on his excellent synopsis of the political elements all around us, threatening democracy, both here and worldwide (Our democracy is being undermined by corrosive politics, Irish Independent, March 26).

One of those was so blatant, when Sinn Feins Matt Carthy self-righteously stood outside Leinster House, trying to convince us that the selection of a taoiseach requires a general election.

There was no one there to remind him that Mary Lou McDonald, who thinks she should be taoiseach, was selected to lead by the Sinn Fein council, mainly in the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Maeve Burke, Loughrea, Co Galway

It looks as though history is repeating itself in Irish politics after resignation

To borrow from the philosopher Hegel, the only thing that we learn from history is that we learn nothing from history.

Looking back to 2006, AIB reported record pre-tax profits of 1.7bn, a 23pc rise on the previous year and the largest ever for an Irish bank.

The then taoiseach resigned shortly after, and in early 2008 a new Fianna Fail leader was elected, unopposed, to carry on the good work of his predecessor.

Can anyone see any congruencies? Wait for the talk of the fundamentals being sound or soft landings  we know what to expect.

Tony Hetherton, address with the editor

Opposition parties can dream on, but they will not be getting a snap election

Kieran ORegan (Letters, March 26) suggests that if Fine Gael gets a lift in the polls, Simon Harris should call a snap election, but I do not believe he will.

There is no doubt that there is a buzz about the new leader. There is always a honeymoon period, but as we saw with the Social Democrats, it can be very brief.

The late Liam Cosgrave and the late John Bruton could have delayed going to the country in their times, and they might have fared better electorally, but this is all now in the past.

I believe this Government will go to its full term and we will have a general election next February 28  and hopefully, with the help of God, it will be re-elected for another term.

Opposition parties can shout all they like for a general election , but it will not happen.

Frank Coughlan (Irish Independent, March 26) is correct when he states that our democracy is being undermined by corrosive politics.

Thomas Garvey, Claremorris, Co Mayo

Cabinet reshuffles are a pointless exercise, given ministers are unqualified

Have you ever wondered about the thought process around cabinet reshuffles?

Are they the subject of a slap on the wrist for the gross incompetence of the incumbents, or are they a shoring up exercise with elections in sight?

With Simon Harris emerging as our next Taoiseach, we can expect another round of musical chairs in Dail Eireann. With a matter of just months before a general election, just what will be the cost, one wonders, for this asinine exercise?

Harris will install completely inexperienced people in positions they are seriously unqualified for. What can be achieved by this folly, other than abject fealty from the successful candidates?

Eamon Kearney, Ayrfield Road, Dublin 13

World looks on as famine is likely to cause huge loss of life in the Gaza Strip

In 1933, the Russians imposed a famine on Ukraine, the result being the Holodomor, in which five million people died.

If the Israelis do not act to stop an impending famine, we could see the same in Palestine. What are we going to actually do about it?

The ego-ridden United Nations has been squabbling and so far achieved nothing. Egypt says 5,000 lorries carrying aid are waiting to enter Gaza.

The horrible fact is that over the next few months there is an increasing possibility that huge numbers of Palestinians will be killed by a preventable famine and the rest of the world will have done nothing about it.

Johnny Couchman, address with the editor

Moscow terror attack was horrific, but it should not lead to more bloodshed

We are filled with overwhelming pain for the innocent lives lost in the terrorist atrocity in Moscow.

No religion justifies the slaughtering of innocent civilians.

Such a cruelty should not be used as a justification for invasions and bombardments of Ukrainian territories under the pretext of self-defence.

We pray the dead will rest in peace and for the injured to heal and for peace to prevail in these dark times.

Dr Munjed Farid Al Qutob, London

Ceasefire vote by the UN Security Council welcome  now it must be enforced

Success at last for the rule of world justice. The United Nations Security Council has finally come to its senses in calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

There is now need for a UN enforcement agency to ensure this legally binding resolution is enacted.

Brendan Butler, Drumcondra, Dublin 9

Pedestrians have rights, but it appears there is a rising contempt for them

I would like to respond, as a shocked pedestrian, to the individual who recently presented the rude finger while driving and narrowly missed my foot in the centre of the zebra crossing at The Palace in Drogheda, Co Louth.

The pedestrian crossing is upheld by the Geneva Convention and the safety of the persons using this facility are protected by law. I am confident that you, rude finger, and many others are similarly gesturing at the Government response to the increasing pedestrian fatality rate, presented in the recent publication of the Road Traffic Bill 2023.

Gesture as you may, but it appears your chronic disposition to contemptuously ignore Stop signs and speed limits will not be changing soon.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) most wisely has recommended that pedestrians look beforehand as we place our foot on a zebra crossing. However, I was already halfway across on a wide street.

Eugene Quinn, Drogheda, Co Louth
As women, we have a duty to speak up about the atrocities of wars in the Ukraine and in Gaza and indeed the many wars that are obliterating and hurting generations across our planet.

I read the letters in your paper frequently and I am puzzled by the fact that the majority of writers are male. Every mother, wife, sister, aunt etc, who watches and thinks about the death and destruction of war is deeply hurt, saddened, ashamed and heartbroken.

As women, we may seem or feel helpless but we are not. We have influence right across the globe. Think about it. It was said some years ago that the hand that raises the gun rules the world.

If we voice our feelings and opinions in writing, at least, we are doing something. We have a duty, as women, to stand up for those innocent people and children in war who have no voice.

I am by no means anti-male but we shouldnt leave it up to men to end these senseless wars. History and present-day life show us that they are incapable of doing so.

Ellen White, Address with the editor

Opposition just playing games in calling for the country to go to the polls

Your editorial (Time for Simon Harris to get on with the job: 12 months of election speculation doesnt help anyone  Irish Independent, March 25) hit the nail on the head, in particular in the closing paragraph, which said: Theres been enough drama from this Coalition over the past four years. The country could do with a bit of predictability in its final year and ministers getting on with their jobs.

I am surprised that Labour leader Ivana Bacik  who has ample knowledge of the workings of the Westminster model of democratic government  called for an immediate election.

Sinn Fein and some Independents are merely playing to the crowd, to keep them in the public eye.

The Government has a moral responsibility to the people to serve its full term at this present time.

Sinn Feins online petition calling for an immediate election illustrates its childish comprehension of politics. Where are their fully costed policies for future government for the public to peruse? Taoiseach-in-waiting Simon Harris should study Niccolo Machiavellis The Prince. In the first 100 days... Off with the heads of those of no use.

Declan Foley, Melbourne, Australia

If Fine Gael gets a lift in the polls, Simon Harris should call a snap election

I wish the new Fine Gael leader well in what will be a very demanding job, although at least he has youth, energy and enthusiasm on his side which is a massive plus. No doubt a brief honeymoon period will beckon in the immediate aftermath of his taking over the office of taoiseach.

Fine Gael could see a recovery in the polls with its new leader. Calling snap elections has never been the partys style  the last Fine Gael leader to do so was WT Cosgrave in August 1927.

Snap elections have been a Fianna Fail tactic from time to time. Eamon de Valera did so in 1933, 1938 and 1944, which proved to be very beneficial for him. The onus is on Simon Harris to call a snap election if Fine Gaels poll ratings recover in the next month or so. He will need to strike while the iron is hot.

Kieran ORegan, Dublin 9

Doubts surround our taoiseach-in-waiting but lets give him a chance to settle

There is no doubt that Simon Harris is eloquent and well-versed in domestic politics, but he has little , if any, exposure to or experience of international affairs.

This could be a problem in relation to the EU, Brexit, the UN and the US as he seeks to introduce himself on the global stage. It will be no easy task and there wont be much time for him to adapt. So lets give him a chance before putting the boot in.

David Ryan, Co Meath

Blueshirts belongs to the past, so why continue to use this outdated word?

I refer to one of the front-page headlines in yesterdays Irish Independent, which referenced an inside piece by Fionnan Sheahan. The headline read: Harris rallies Blueshirts but his vision for country is still a blur.

Research indicates this fascist organisation was dissolved in 1933 and not in living memory of most of our population.

In an age of hate speech, border problems and extreme left- and right-wing groups, I feel it is well below the standard of balance required from responsible journalism to use this term solely to rally the keyboard warriors and grab attention.

There is a well-learnt lesson about adding fuel to a fire and I believe it should be heeded. I wonder how your front page would look with a story about the main opposition party featuring the well-used three capital initials associated with its very recent past. I hope not, as there is enough strife and division already.

Daniel Coleman, Carrigrohane, Co Cork

Denying food to people of Gaza is a deliberate use of starvation as a weapon

The head of the United Nations Palestinian refugee agency, UNRWA, said on Sunday that Israel had informed the UN that it will no longer approve UNRWA food convoys to the north of Gaza. This decision is likely to cause the death of thousands more Palestinian women and children.

It represents a continuation of the use of starvation as a weapon of war and deliberate neglect of Israeli responsibilities as the occupying military power. The US is continuing to provide military, logistical and diplomatic support to Israel, and is continuing to use Shannon Airport and Irish airspace for these purposes in breach of US and Irelands duties under international laws including the Genocide Convention.

Edward Horgan, Castletroy, Co Limerick

Poem which brought us comfort in pandemic could be updated now

Exactly four years ago the RTE broadcast of Derek Mahons poem Everything is Going to be All Right touched a nation facing uncertainty with the impending Covid pandemic. The poem was shared globally and was needed to reassure everyone in times of uncertainty.

Four years on, our world has changed but it has brought us closer together. We have moved on from There will be dying, there will be dying to a more positive There will be living, There will be living.

Seamus Joyce, Richmond, London
Last Fridays attack on a concert hall in Moscow sent shockwaves through the Russian capital, with at least 137 people dead and an affiliate of Islamic State, IS-K, claiming responsibility. The attack was the deadliest on Russian soil in years.

Authorities arrested four suspected attackers on Saturday, with seven more detained on suspicion of involvement, Russian president Vladimir Putin said in a night-time address to the nation.

He said the suspects were captured while fleeing to Ukraine, something that Kyiv firmly denies. Putin claimed some people on the Ukrainian side had been prepared to spirit the gunmen across the border.

Having apparently dismissed warnings from US intelligence, Putin now has difficult questions to answer.

On todays The Indo Daily, Tabitha Monahan is joined by Russia analyst Jason Corcoran and security and defence analyst Declan Power to discuss the reappearance of IS, and whether this attack has weakened the recently re-elected Putin.
Four men are to appear in court in Monaghan this morning charged in connection to a burglary at a mobile phone store in Cavan town.

A suspected burglary gang arrested in connection to the theft of thousands of euros worth of mobile phones from a shop in Cavan town are to appear in court this morning.

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The quartet were arrested by detectives during the early hours of yesterday morning following a break-in at a retail premises along the county towns main street on March 14.

Three of the four men detained are in their 20s, while the fourth suspect is in his late teens.

They were questioned at various stations across the Louth/ Cavan/Monaghan division for several hours before later being charged.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 27th

A Garda spokesperson confirmed to the Irish Independent website this morning that the four men are due to appear at a sitting of Monaghan District Court this morning.

Gardai are investigating a burglary that occurred at a shop on Main St, Cavan Town on March 14 at approximately 4am, said the spokesperson.

A number of items were taken from the premises.

Four men, three in their twenties and one adult teenager, were later arrested and will appear before the Monaghan District Court today at 10.30am.
Four Spanish men charged with conspiring with others to import controlled drugs into Ireland have indicated that they plan to apply for bail in the High Court.

The men appeared before Cork District Court last Thursday charged with the same offence of conspiring with others to import drugs with a value of in excess of 13,000 into Ireland.

Judge Mary Dorgan remanded all four accused in custody to appear at Cork District Court again today by video link.

At a sitting of the court this afternoon Eddie Burke, defence solicitor, said that his clients Angel Serran Padilla, (39) of Malaga and Pedro Padio Ojeda Ortega (35) of Cadiz were consenting to a continuing remand in custody until April 10 to facilitate the obtaining of DPP directions in the case.

A Spanish interpreter translated the proceedings for both accused. Mr Burke also told Judge Dorgan that bail applications would be made for his clients at the High Court.

Judge Dorgan remanded both men in custody until April 10 next. She said that if the either or both of the men secured bail in the High Court they would be obliged to attend Cork District Court in person next month.

Meanwhile, defence solicitor Frank Buttimer said that his clients Raul Garcia Tabares (48) of Cadiz and Anuar Rahui (41) of Marbella, Malaga were also making applications for bail at the High Court. They were remanded in custody to appear before Cork District Court on April 16.

Judge Dorgan also informed Mr Rahui and Mr Tabares of their obligation to attend court in person in the event of bail being granted in the High Court.

Six co-defendants of the four accused have appeared in other courts in Cork charged with the same offence.

All ten were arrested earlier this month at various locations in Co Cork.

Each charge sheet states, That you (name of defendant ) on dates between February 27 and March 14, both dates inclusive, within the State, did conspire with one or more persons, namely (nine other names), to do an act in the State that constitutes a serious offence, namely the importation of controlled drugs in excess of 13,000, an offence contrary of Section 15 B (1) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 as amended and contrary to Section 71 (1) a(4) of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 as amended by Section 4 (b) of the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023.
Councillors have been given a two week deadline to reach consensus on a motion to rename the newly built 48 single bed wing of Mallow General Hospital The Sherlock Wing in recognition of the role the political family played in the retention and upgrading of the hospital.

Labour Party councillor Eoghan Kenny brought forward a motion at last Mondays full council meeting asking the local authority to write to the CEO of the Health Service Executive (HSE) Bernard Gloster and the Regional Executive Officer of the HSE South West Dr Andy Phillips.

The proposed letter would request that the new 48 bed wing of Mallow General Hospital be named The Sherlock Wing to honour the roles played by former councillor and TD for Cork East Joe Sherlock and current Labour Party TD Sean Sherlock who both advocated strongly over two decades for Mallow General Hospital (MGH) and helped secure the future of the hospital.

The motion sparked a lengthy and robust debate with councillors offering unanimous praise for the influential role the Sherlock family played in the development of Mallow General Hospital.

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However a number of councillors harboured fears over a potential rejection from the HSE regarding the renaming of the new single bed wing in MGH and wanted the matter dealt with by a relevant Strategic Policy Committee (SPC).

Cllr Kenny said naming the new hospital wing after the Sherlock family would be fitting. Joe Sherlock spearheaded the retention and upgrading of Mallow General Hospital. His son Sean worked hard with Brendan Howlin to secure the funding for the new development. The future of Mallow General Hospital is secured with the new 48 single bed unit. It would be a fitting tribute to the Sherlock family to name the name wing of Mallow General Hospital The Sherlock Wing.

The motion was seconded by Labour Party councillor Cathal Rasmussen who said that the late Joe Sherlock worked very hard for Cork East and particularly for Mallow General Hospital.

Fine Gael councillor Anthony Barry proposed an amendment to the motion and requested that it would be sent to the SPC. I fully appreciate the contribution that the late Joe Sherlock made to political life. I think it should be sent to the relevant SPC to look at as a County Council project rather than lost with the HSE.

Social Democrats councillor Liam Quaide added: I'm conscious that this is a sensitive issue. This naming proposal would ultimately be decided by the Board of Cork University Hospital Group which governs Mallow General Hospital if we forward it to them, but I would be happy to support it within Cork County Council.

I would be thinking along the lines of Cllr Anthony Barry, said Fine Gael councillor Michael Hegarty who seconded the amendment. By unanimous agreement we named a bridge in Midleton after the late Noel Collins. There may be some other council piece of infrastructure in the Mallow MD that could facilitate the naming of something in recognition of the late Joe Sherlock. If we have an appropriate SPC I think that is the way it should be dealt with.

Fianna Fail councillor Seamus McGrath said it made sense to keep it within the control of the local authority, while Fine Gael councillor Liam Madden acknowledged the 48-single bed way as a fantastic development for Mallow.

Fianna Fail councillor Gearoid Murphy agreed with Cllr Barrys suggestion that the motion be forwarded to the SPC. The late Joe Sherlock left a towering legacy throughout Cork East and the wider region. It is fitting that he be commemorated. The naming of a piece of infrastructure in Mallow would be completely appropriate. I would concur with Cllr Barry that the motion would be referred to the SPC.

It is to do something effective to commemorate the late Joe Sherlock. We have no role in setting any policy of the HSE, whereas for housing projects and roads infrastructure projects we do. The amendment proposal would lead to an effective outcome rather than a letter which would gather dust, he added.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank OFlynn appealed for a consensus to be reached. The Sherlock family were tireless workers throughout Cork East. The wing is a great asset to North Cork. I have the motion proposed and seconded. I also have an amendment proposed and seconded. There is also a suggestion that it goes back to the municipal area. Everyone here agrees with what we intend doing. The last thing I would like to see is a split. I would like a consensus. We need to do what is right to honour the Sherlock family.

The motion is black and white, said Cllr Kenny. This is ultimately a matter for the HSE. If we had the support of the full council we could work very closely with the HSE in successfully naming the new wing.

Cllr Anthony Barry said by keeping it inhouse they would retain control. A project that is supported by Cork County Council is more appropriate. A project that is funded and decided by Cork County Council means we have control over it. We have no control over a third body and how they would view this.

Independent councillor Declan Hurley said the thrust of the initial motion has been over complicated.

Labour Party councillor Cathal Rasmussen added: I appreciate everyones position. I would suggest that we send the letter off and see where it goes.

Independent councillor Alan Coleman then made a suggestion which garnered support across the chamber. I would propose that we adjourn it for a fortnight and have discussions between the interested parties so everyone understands what is at stake.

Cllr Barry agreed with Cllr Colemans suggestion. It is a good idea if we could have a discussion on it over the next fortnight rather than having a vote.

Cllr Kenny agreed to defer the issue but expressed his disappointment in doing so. We will defer it for two weeks. We will have a discussion on it between different parties. I think bringing it to the SPC we would have no power over the HSE then. Not having the backing of the 55 councillors here and having to defer it is quite disappointing.

Cllr Rasmussen added: Cllr Kenny is willing to allow the motion to be discussed at the next meeting and that a decision would be made based on the discussions.

Mayor OFlynn concluded proceedings by thanking Cllr Barry and Cllr Hegarty for withdrawing their amendment. We will be back in two weeks and we will have discussions in the meantime.

It was subsequently agreed that discussions would be held between all the various stakeholders in an attempt to reach a consensus before the motion is dealt with again at the next full council meeting on Monday, April 8.
A West Cork pub has been lauded in a road trip feature which has appeared in The Wall Street Journal.

Journalist and author Vic OSullivan of The Wall Street Journal put together a road trip along the 1,600 mile long Wild Atlantic Way, starting from Donegal in the north to Cork in the south, using a number of quintessential pubs as checkpoints.

From the Rusty Mackerel in Donegal, McDonnell's Bar in Mayo, Tigh Ned in the Aran Islands and O'Loclainn's Irish Whiskey Bar in Clare, to John B. Keanes Pub in Listowel, many iconic watering holes feature.

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Vics trip concludes, though, with a stop at Levis Corner House in Ballydehob, West Cork which has been in the hands of one family for over 100 years.

The iconic pink pub is beloved by many for its welcoming atmosphere, live music gigs and weekly fresh market shop.

Take in the staggering views of cornflower seascapes and Three Castle Head, a limestone medieval ruin that teeters on a bluff by the ocean, before arriving at Levis Corner House, Vic writes.

There, Caroline ODonnell and Joe OLeary, a fourth-generation pub owner, pull creamy pints from a large tap devoted to Murphys, County Corks home-court stout. An old grocery counter that Joes grand-aunts once presided over is now part of an intimate stage for travelling musicians, he adds.

The colourful spot has even become a stomping ground for local resident and renowned actor Jeremy Irons who has on a number of occasions played piano in the pub.

The Wild Atlantic Way at 1,600 miles is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world. The journey unfolds the wonders of nature, the power of the ocean and the enchanting villages nestled along the coast.
The public consultation period on Dublins MetroLink is to reopen over the submission of 200 additional documents.

The order to reopen consultation was made by An Bord Pleanala amid significant new submissions from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) since the beginning of oral hearings on the major project.

The six-week hearing on the rail project, which plans to span 18.8km from Swords to Charlemont, with 16 stops, was due to finish up this week.

However, it has been reported that TII, the managers of the project, must publish the new materials submitted on the project so the public can have their say.

Many submissions have been made throughout the past number of weeks by parties who may be impacted by the railway lines construction.

Throughout this time, several submissions made at the public hearing began with the individual stating that they were not given enough time to review additional documents submitted by TII since the oral hearings began.

Some of these, estimated to be close to 200 additional documents, pertain to agreements that have been reached with property owners along the planned MetroLink route.

It is unclear if more public hearings will be needed in the future to address the additional documentation.

TII confirmed that they would hold back on publishing additional information until notified by An Bord Pleanala of exact requirements.

Paolo Carbone, Head of Public Transport, Capital Projects at Transport Infrastructure Ireland, said: TII is pleased the inspector has indicated that all of the new material, provided by the applicant at the hearing, will be advertised publicly and there will be an opportunity for interested parties to make submissions.

In the interest of consultation and to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to participate fully in the process, TII welcomes this development.
A number of shops were looted during riots in Dublin city centre last year. Pic: Frank McGrath

A growing number of robberies from shops are driving a significant increase in overall theft offences, according to official statistics.

Central Statistics Office (CSO) figures for last year show a total of 74,144 thefts, up 12pc on 2022.

This included a 42pc hike in reported thefts from the person, a 23pc rise in theft/taking of vehicles, and a 14pc increase in theft from shops.

A rise in assaults associated with shoplifting and people driving off without paying for fuel are exacerbating the issue.

On Monday, Assistant Commissioner Angela Willis told the Dublin City Joint Policing Committee of more aggression among shoplifters.

Retail Excellence Ireland also highlighted that the rise in shoplifting did not account for the impact of daily instances of anti-social behaviour on staff and customers.

The head of a retail group, which represents more than 4,000 family-owned shops, said it is a major stress for staff having to face these theft related incidents every day.

Retail Grocery Dairy & Allied Trades Association (RGDATA) director general Tara Buckley said members have said there is an issue around young offenders who may feel untouchable because they are under age.

But they are unbelievably aggressive, and they are daily coming into stores, particularly in big urban areas, and creating havoc, she said.

So, we would have been pleading for interdepartmental group to come together and look at how we can address this problem of out-of-control, feral youth and that is what I unfortunately must call them.

She said that most of the individuals coming into the stores are young people who taunt staff and dont care about their faces being seen.

These are serial offenders, a lot of whom have very nice clothes on them and dont look like people who are short of money, but they come in and rob and abuse staff in the store, she said.

Ms Buckley added these incidents are getting more violent, and were seeing daily incidents of aggressive retail crime.

Our members have experienced racist remarks, sexist remarks, and every type of verbal abuse in the form of shouting and screaming and challenging staff, she said.

Staff are also having experiences with physical abuse whether it be the person throwing the item they have stolen at a member of staff, or hot coffees not paid for being thrown at a staff member.

She added that more garda presence on the streets and these types of crimes being taken much more seriously is whats needed to combat this issue.

Vincent Jennings, Chief Executive Officer at CSNA (Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association) told RTE Radio 1 that theyve had a 52pc increase in reported incidents of theft from supermarkets and convenience stores this year.

He said the items being stolen are primarily food, groceries, liquor, healthcare and cosmetics. However, the biggest increase in this type of theft is not the capital, with Dublins increase last year limited to 2pc.

In the east of the country, there was a 23pc increase in these types of related incidents, while the northwest saw a huge increase of 31pc.
Dublin Fire Brigade confirmed they have just cleared a three car crash on the M50 pic: @DubFireBrigade

Traffic has clamed following the clearance of a three car collision on the M50 northbound.

The incident, which has now been cleared by Dublin Fire Brigade, was a three car road traffic collision that took place at Junction 13, Ballinteer.

All lanes have now reopened.

Motorists can expect delays of less than 20 minutes along the route.

Earlier today, delays of 150 minutes were expected around Junction 16.

Meanwhile, a breakdown on the M50 southbound between Junction 16 Cherrywood and Junction 17 Shankill has been cleared after causing delays through the central lane.

More to follow...
With the Easter weekend just around the corner you might have already started making plans on how to spend the bank holiday weekend.

You might be thinking that a three day weekend is the perfect opportunity for a mini staycation here in Ireland. You are not the only one who has thought about that.

This Easter, domestic destinations are proving to be very popular. Airbnb have reported a 14 per cent increase in rural bookings in Ireland over the Easter weekend, compared to last year.

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In addition, Airbnb has also witnessed a remarkable surge of 36 per cent in searches for Irish family trips during the Easter holidays, compared to last year.

This year, an unusual property in Co Kilkenny has caught the eye of many staycation lovers as it has made it onto the list for one of the most wishlisted countryside stays in Ireland.

Tubbrid Castle in Co Kilkenny. Photo: Airbnb

Tubbrid Castle, nestled in the beautiful countryside of Co Kilkenny combines both rural relaxation and history and would make the perfect location for a spring staycation.

This 15th century tower house in Urlingford, Co Kilkenny is also a 20 minute drive from Kilkenny City, another location steeped in history.

Tubbrid Castle brings the past into the modern world for its guests and was only recently restored to its former glory after being uninhabited for the last century.

Ri Ailig Bedroom. Photo: Airbnb

The castle was built as part of a defensive structure to protect the Butlers of Ormond, with generations of families living within its walls, all allied to the Butlers of Kilkenny Castle.

According to the owners, both the castle and the land it is built on have both experienced their fair share of history. Back in 942 AD, an army of 1,000 Leather Clocks marched South alongside Muircheartach who was the King of modern-day Ulster, to avenge his allies who had been attacked by the King of Cashel, Callaghan. Right before the battle, the army looked to set up camp as close to enemy territory as possible. This so happened to be at Tubbrid, in an area now called Ban an Champa which translates to the Field of the Encampment. The owners also say the land has royal connections, as King Muircheartach is said to have slept in a fort on the exact land where Tubbrid Castle now stands.

John Bedroom. Photo: Airbnb

However, as time passed the castle stood abandoned and fell into dereliction as the structure began to rot and decay. But a man called John Campion Senior envisioned a different future for the castle and worked over several years to restore the castle to its former glory, before John Campion Junior took over the restoration in 2016.

The Great Hall. Photo: Airbnb

Having been completely restored, Tubbrid Castle is now a three-bedroom Airbnb. Up to eight guests can stay in the castle at one time, allowing them the chance to experience living in a real-life medieval Irish Castle. One group can only book the castle at one time, so you will have the entire castle all to yourselves.
A Meath man referred to hospital for mental health assessment has told of how he was left exhausted and at his wits end after spending almost two days languishing on a chair in hospital before eventually receiving a bed.

Trim man Kenny Travers spent 37 hours waiting to secure a bed at Our of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda after first being referred last Tuesday.

The father of four, who returned home yesterday (Tuesday) said the entire episode was made worse by a mix-up that resulted in him spending a number of hours in a nearby psychiatric unit.

The letter the doctor gave me I thought I was supposed to go to the mental health hospital in Drogheda, not Our Lady of Lourdes and they let me sit up there for five hours and then called me and said I should be in the other hospital, he said.

When they read the letter why didnt they say anything? After that I was sent over and to the hospital. I was left sitting on a chair and it was 37 hours before I got onto a trolley.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - March 28th

A builder by profession, Mr Travers also told of how members of his own family sat alongside him for over 24 hours as the wait to secure admission to the Louth based hospital dragged into a second day.

The 54-year-old said the entire experience had made him think twice about re-entering a health system he contended was in dire need of overhaul.

I came in here for mental health so 37 hours on a chair didnt help things and I do feel let down. It cant go on because there was another man there of 75 years of age and he was 28 or 29 hours waiting on a trolley and thats just not on, he said.

Its disgraceful. My family are all from the North and they were here for 25 hours and couldnt leave me. I feel worse now than when I came in.

Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda.

Those sentiments were ones which were shared by Meath West TD Johnny Guirke. The Sinn Fein Dail representative described the fallout from Mr Travers near two day wait to access potentially vital mental health services as a scandal and indicative of more serious undertones surrounding the status of Our Ladys Hospital in Navan.

When you see a scandal where someone is waiting on a chair for almost two days it shows mental health services are on the floor, he said.

It just shows what we need in Navan Hospital is no more downgrading of services.

What we need is investment in services. We cant be bypassing people from Navan to Drogheda to sit on a chair for almost two days.

The Irish Independent has reached out to the HSE for comment and is currently awaiting a response.
Irish Artists For Palestine are hosting Oiche Don Gaza at the Ashdown Park Hotel on Thursday, April 4 and 100 per cent of the funds raised will go towards Medecins Sans Frontieres in aid the people of Palestine.

Many of Irelands biggest artists will perform on the night including Mary Black, Mary Coughlan, Pete Cummins, Ed Deane, Garvin Gallagher, Honor Heffernan, Trevor Knight, Dominic Mullan, Carole Nelson, Cormac OBrien, Leo OKelly, Bill Shanley, Stephen James Smith, Johnnie Taylor and guest speakers TD Richard Boyd Barrett and Aislinn Wallace.

"We all feel helpless and you think were running a gig and what is that going to do for people but everything we do is important like looking at whats in shops. If it comes from Israel, then you know youre supporting murder and its as simple as that. No matter what happened on October 7, the punishment does not fit the crime."

"We can boycott Israel, we can ask our politicians to raise their voices and ask for a ceasefire and ask America to stop sending weapons. Just generally, theres a lot of little things that we can do and people have a lot more power than the powers that be would have us think, said Honor Heffernan who is organising the event.

Doors will open at 7p.m. and the concert is set to start at 8p.m. Tickets are 20 and available to buy on Eventbrite.

Furthermore, every Wednesday, a group of local residents from Gorey gather for a silent vigil at the Ulster Bank. The amount of people that have come to join us has grown and now every car that goes past is beeping at us and giving us a thumbs up. People realise now that this is not war, it certainly isnt war when one side only has stones to throw, said Honor.
Dermot Hogan with occupational therapists Siobhan Feery and Ann Marie Keane at the careers night in Wexford CBS.

Clothes collection

For anyone doing a spring clean and declutter, please keep in mind that the next clothes collection for Curracloe National school takes place on Friday, April 19th. Please leave bags at black gates, to the left of the school before 9.30 a.m.

All items of clothing, bags and shoes are welcome. No duvets, pillows or underwear please. Thank you for your support.

Curracloe School

Thanks to everyone who supported the recent Cheltenham tipster for Curracloe National School. They had 40 entries & 220 will go towards fun activities for the children & their Easter Egg hunt. Congratulations to Andrew Furlong, Robert Kirwan and Paul Stafford who all shared 1st place and won 50. Rebecca Dunleavy-Murphy came a close 2nd and won 30.

Thank you to Lorraine Neville who organised and ran the fun event. Murt Kelly was a recent winner of the Split the Pot competition, winning 131.50c.

Memorial Road Run

The Over the Water Vintage Club will hold their first Martin Kearon Memorial Road Run on Sunday, April 14th, starting from Screen village. Registration takes place at 11 a.m and the event gets underway at 1 p.m. This year the event is in aid of the Hope Cancer Support Centre for all of Co. Wexford, a very worthy cause. On their behalf, the Committee welcome your help and support on the day.

Development Lotto

Results of the Curracloe United Lotto draw for Sunday, March 17th. The numbers drawn were 7, 19, 21 & 28. There was no Jackpot winner and 4 match 3 winners who each received 40, Sandra Keville, Curracloe; Gerry Doyle, C/O Clubforce; Donal O Leary, C/O Clubforce and Lynda Shiggins, C/O Clubforce.

Results of the draw held on Sunday last, March 24th. The numbers drawn were 5, 10, 19 & 20. There was no Jackpot winner and 4 match 3 winners, who each received 40: Anthony Canning, Glenbough; Kate Costello, C/O Brian McKenna; John Roche, Garrylough and John & Eileen Furlong, Curracloe.

Next weeks Jackpot stands at 14,750 and the draw will take place on Sunday, March 31st at 8 pm in The Tavern, Curracloe.

EASTER CEREMONIES

Mass of the Lords Supper on Holy Thursday at 7 p.m in Castlebridge church and at 8 p.m in Curracloe church.

The Lords Passion Ceremonies on Friday afternoon begin at 3 p.m in Castlebridge church and at 7 p.m in Screen church.

The Easter Vigil Ceremonies begin at 7.15 p.m in Curracloe church and at 9 p.m in Castlebridge church.

Easter Sunday Mass at 9.15 a.m in Curracloe church, at 10.30 a.m in Castlebridge church and at 11 30 a.m in Screen church.

Items for column

News items most welcome. Send reports on meetings, matches events coming up, births, marriages etc. Email to tworedcow@outlook.com or text to 086 1980775 by Sunday night of each week or by Thursday night in the event of a bank holiday weekend.

OYLEGATE

Church news

Trocaire Collection - It would be appreciated if donations to this years Trocaire appeal could be returned a.s.a.p. Where possible, it would also be appreciated if coins could be converted to notes.

Our Future Church: Diocesan Appeal - Envelopes to allow people to donate towards the training of 30 Lay People for roles in Pastoral Ministry in Parishes are still available in the Church and can be returned at weekend Masses. You can also donate online at ferns.ie

Thank you to all who returned the Envelopes at Masses over St.Patricks weekend. Oylegate 490, Glenbrien 470.

Easter Ceremonies in Oylegate - Holy Thursday: 7pm Mass of the Lords Supper; A Holy Hour of Adoration will follow Mass. Good Friday: 3pm Reading of the Passion and Veneration of the Cross. Holy Saturday: 6.30pm Vigil of Easter. Easter Sunday: 10.30am Mass (salt will be blessed)

Easter Ceremonies in Glenbrien - Holy Thursday: 8pm Mass of the Lords Supper; A Holy Hour of Adoration will follow Mass. Good Friday: 7pm Reflection on the Stations of The Cross and Veneration of the Cross. Holy Saturday: 8pm Vigil of Easter. Easter Sunday: 9.30am Mass (salt will be blessed.

Weekly Envelope Boxes 2024 - The Boxes are available for collection in the Church. Thank you to all who make regular contributions to this vital collection towards the upkeep of the Church. You can also support this collection by Direct Debit or standing Order. Contact the Parish Office for further information.

Thank you to all who have made regular contributions over the year. This collection is vital for the upkeep of the Parish Church. Bank details IBAN IE44 BOFI 906566 24140788 BIC BOFIIE2D.

Mass Bookings - Please book anniversary Masses through the Parish Office during office hours.

Eucharistic Adoration  Adoration takes place in the Prayer Room in Oylegate church on Wednesdays from 10 a.m.  one. p.m.

Adoration of the Blessed sacrament takes place in Glenbrien church on Tuesdays from 10 a.m.

PIERCESTOWN

Dance with Declan

Age Friendly Wexford and Healthy Wexford invites you to dust off your dancing shoes and Dance with Declan - Jive, Waltz, Quickstep and lots more.

First one takes place in Knockingall Community Centre, Piercestown on Friday 5th April from 2-3pm for one hour, all free. Refreshments served. To book a place contact community@wexfordcoco.ie

ARA Club

There will be no meeting on Tuesday 2nd April for the Club as it is Easter break.

Easter Baskets Raffle - The ARA Club are organising their annual Easter Raffle and lines on sale 2 a line or 3 lines for 5. All members have cards so your support will be very much appreciated. This is for an Easter Basket (and maybe more than one prize!).

The draw will take place on Easter Sunday morning at Londis Piercestown after 10.30am mass in Piercestown. Thank you for your continued support.

Notes contact

Please forward notes for the paper to peadar.dempsey57@gmail.com

RATHANGAN-CLEARIESTOWN

Rathangan Parish Journal

The new Rathangan Parish Journal (15) can be purchased from Rathangan Hall weekday mornings from 9.30 to 12.30pm. Copies can also be found in local shops and Red Books in Wexford Town.

Family Mass

Our next family Mass takes place on Easter Sunday, 31st March. Everyone is most welcome or if you or a family member would like to take part, please contact Jacqui on 087 2219302.

St. Annes N.S. enrolment

Enrolment forms for St. Annes N.S. Rathangan for September 2024 are now available from the school office or available to download from the school website: stannesns.weebly.com please contact Jenny on (051) 563167.

CuChulainn Archery Club

All roads led to Limerick this weekend, with members of CuChulainn Archers travelling long distances from various parts of the country to University of Limerick to compete in the Archery Ireland Indoor Nationals 2024. This is one of the two most prestigious indoor competitions in the Archery Calendar, and the last major competition before the outdoor season commences. Very early starts were the order of the day, with some people leaving home at 5am to be sure to make the competition on time.

The club had archers competing in both Senior, Individual and Team categories and did very well.

In Womens Senior compound, JoAnn Bell from the Louth branch of CuChulainn seeded in first place and went on the take the Gold medal. Emma Crosbie from the Wexford branch of CuChulainn Archers seeded in 8th place and was unfortunate to be knocked out by her clubmate, JoAnn in the quarter finals.

In Senior Barebow men, David Ryan, CuChulainn Wexford, won through in straight sets until he came up against fellow CuChulainn Louth member, Neil Keeble who knocked him out after a hard fight in the quarter finals, with Neil going on to take the Gold medal.

Next up were the team events with CuChulainns male compound team of Alan Convery and Robert Hall, CuChulainn Louth and Eamonn Rogers CuChulainn Wexford taking the Gold medal.

Senior Barebow male team of Neil Keeble, Enda Murray and David Ryan also took the Gold medal. Congratulations to all, in particular David Ryan who was attendingnot only his first Irish National Indoor competition, but his first competition ever! David took up the sport just last year.

CuChulainn Archers Wexford runs beginner courses throughout the year. For all enquiries please email cuchulainnwexford@yahoo.com

Social Dancing at Rathangan Hall

Social Dancing class in Rathangan Hall on Thursdays at 8pm with Paul Codd. Beginners are welcome and you dont have to bring a partner. A guaranteed night of fun for all!

Macfit PT and Fitness/Pilates and Massage

Macfit PT and Fitness with Pilates and Massage with Nikki are running a range of classes in Rathangan Hall. For information on timetable please check their Facebook page or call direct Brian: 086-1551315 or Nikki: 085-1193845

Rathangan Hall - services

Professional CV writing service: If youre looking to update your CV or get one written from scratch, we can help. We will showcase your unique talents, skills and achievements and provide you with a CV which will empower you to secure your dream job and help you to stand out from the crowd. We can also provide you with a cover letter as required. Price: 30. For more information, please call 051-577046 or email us at rathanganhall@gmail.com

Poster/Advertisement Design Service: Do you need a poster/advertisement designed? If so, we can help you! We can create for you a bespoke, unique and professional poster/advertisement to suit your personal needs. Price: 10. Get in touch with us on 051-577046 or at Rathanganhall@gmail.com

Hire of Chairs and Tables: If you have an event planned and require the hire of excellent high-quality chairs and tables then Rathangan Hall has you covered! For further information on how Rathangan Hall can help you please call 051-577046 or contact us through our email at Rathanganhall@gmail.com

Hip hop dance classes

Next level dance school is back with hip hop dance classes in Rathangan hall Thursdays from 5-6pm, 7 per class pay as you go. For more info contact Joelle on 087 9768864 or contact through our Facebook/Instagram @ next level dance school.

McCalls Community Centre

Office and Hub Rental: If youre looking for a great place to study or work in peace with excellent facilities on hand then look no further than McCalls Community Centre where you can hire an office desk or office space to suit your needs with top speed WiFi, printing etc.. now available. Special rates for students and local enterprises. Apply to Annette Walsh (086) 1257595.
Tusla inspection recommended higher staffing numbers which owners say would have made the business unviable

Cllr Leonard Kelly with parents Anna Kilowska, Jen Devlin (with her son Dylan) and Shane Canning, all of whom have been left in limbo following the sudden closure of the Sunny Days Afterschool at Scoil Mhuire, Coolcotts.

Up to 60 families have been thrown into chaos after it emerged that an afterschool childcare service operating at Scoil Mhuire Coolcotts will not re-open after the Easter break.

Three days before the Easter holidays, parents whose children attend Sunny Days Afterschool in Coolcotts received notice that the service would cease to operate from April 8. There were tearful goodbyes on Friday as staff members bid farewell to the children that had been in their care.

The closure comes in the wake of a Tusla inspection, which recommended implementing more collection points, requiring higher staffing numbers and changes to working arrangements. It resulted in Sunny Days regrettably informing parents that the business was no longer viable.

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Independent councillor Leonard Kelly has been busy fielding calls from frustrated and stressed parents in the past week. With places in creches and after-schools having grown incredibly scarce in Wexford in recent years, parents are now facing an impossible race against time to make alternative arrangements.

"Potentially up to 60 families are affected here, he said. Ive been contacted by a number of parents and Ive also spoken to the owners. Unfortunately, from their point of view, they just feel that from a business perspective its no longer viable.

"For families to get this news with three weeks notice is just a crushing blow, he continued. There are a lot of parents who are potentially looking at having to take unpaid leave, or worse, leave employment as a result of having no dependable childcare.

One parent left in limbo is Jen Devlin whose 7 year-old son Dylan has been attending Sunny Days for the past three years.

"It was just so unexpected, she said. Even if things could have continued until summer, it would have been something. At the moment Im just ringing around and seeing if I can juggle things and get my parents to help out and things like that.

For Jen, its not as simple as just finding another afterschool for Dylan either.

"Dylan is autistic, she explains. He attends the rainbow unit at Scoil Mhuire. So the difficulty is that I cant just find him another place. Its all too overwhelming for him.

"When I told him, he was so upset. He was bawling. Sunny Days is part of his routine and he looks forward to it. Its helped him so much socially and with his development, I just hope this wont cause him to take a step back.

"The staff there have always been amazing with Dylan. I feel really sorry for them too, because they only found out the same time we did. There are parents that work full-time who will find this so difficult. Everywhere else is booked up and if they cant find alternative childcare theyll have to quit their job or reduce their hours.

Sunny Days Afterschool has operated at Scoil Mhuire Coolcotts for the past three years.

Shane Canning and his wife Pamela find themselves in this position. Their two youngest, Clio (10) and Phoebe (8), have also attended the afterschool for the past three years.

"Im angry because my girls are devastated, Shane said. Sunny Days has been a big part of their lives for the past three years. The staff there are brilliant with them and Im angry that they dont have their jobs.

"Im also angry that parents were given no notice and it appears that no effort was by Tusla or the company to try to resolve this. There was no message went out to the parents to say we have a bit of a problem here or anything like that.

"Essentially, we found out on the Wednesday and the girls said their goodbyes to the staff etc on Friday. It was two or three days notice at most.

Like Jen, Shane and Pamela are now scrambling to make alternative arrangements. Living in nearby Ashfield Drive, they had a system in place where their eldest or their parents would pick up Clio and Phoebe from afterschool while they were at work.

"Theres no real alternative that works well enough for us, Shane said. There was talks of putting them on a bus from Scoil Mhuire to The Faythe for afterschool, but Id have concerns about that too.

"We cant afford not to have two wages coming into our house. If we cant continue to do that because theres no afterschool care, its the children that will suffer. People have been left in an awful state because of this.

This was something which Cllr Kelly was particularly frustrated by.

"Were told all the time that we live in a wealthy country, but people dont feel it when we dont even have adequate childcare in order to support working parents. We need dependable, affordable childcare close at hand and if the private market cant provide that, we need the state to step up and sort it out.

From the providers point of view, Debbie Devereux of Sunny Days explained that they were left with little choice.

After the Tusla inspection, we were issued with an immediate action notice, she said. The notice informed us that due to the vast layout of the school, we had to provide multiple collection points in different areas of the school grounds.

This would require us to take on two more staff and, practically and financially, that was just unviable.

We understand how frustrated parents are. Its not a decision we've taken lightly

Ms Devereux explained that with four staff to 36 children at any given time, they were already well within the staffing numbers sought by Tusla, but the issues solely related to pick-ups

"Unfortunately, we have to comply with Tusla, she said. They are the governing body. If we continued to operate and werent complying, it would have serious implications for our business.

"We understand how frustrated parents are. Its not a decision we've taken lightly. We understand how hard it is to get childcare, but really this is something thats outside our control. Because it was an immediate action notice, we had to take action right away and if we didnt take the decision before the Easter break, parents would have had less notice.

Apart from being a source of considerable stress for the parents, Ms Devereux noted it had major financial implications for Sunny Days as well as the staff that were working in Coolcotts.

"It wasnt an easy decision to make, she said. It's a big financial issue for us too. Obviously, you have your projections done out for the year and they're simply not going to add up now.

"Also we have very good staff whove worked with us for three years there. You never want to be in the position to have to tell someone that their job is gone with 20 days notice.

Ms Devereux also added that even if it were financially viable to take on two extra staff, garda vetting would take five to six weeks and effectively they would not have had enough staff to run the service from April 8 anyway.

In a statement on behalf of all three proprietors  Debbie, Nicola and Helen  they finished by saying:

"We are heartbroken to say that we have exhausted all avenues and there is no other option available to us at this time. Following this route has put our business under extreme financial duress and it is not a decision we took lightly, it has been an extremely tough week for ourselves and the staff, as well as the parents and the school.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the parents of Scoil Mhuire for their support over the years and express our sympathies for the inconvenience that this situation has caused to themselves, their children and their families. It has been a pleasure to work with the school and the families since we opened our service in Coolcotts.

There does seem to be that disconnect there between what they expect and what the childcare sector can actually provide

Noting the level of positive feedback from parents in relation to the service in its current guise, Cllr Leonard Kelly suggested a disconnect between Tusla and the situation on the ground for childcare providers, stating that their decision in this case had had a detrimental effect on 60 families, not to mention it had cost four people their jobs.

"There does seem to be that disconnect there between what they expect and what the childcare sector can actually provide, he said. The finding from Tusla was not adverse in terms of the quality of care being provided, but the result is that 60 families are left without childcare with three weeks notice. This is a situation that shouldnt be happening.

Cllr Kelly is now appealing for any childcare providers who might be in a position to step into the breach to come forward.

"For me, continuity of care is key, he said. The school is doing great work with the children, particularly those with additional needs. Id appeal for any provider who could potentially step in and continue with the service or might be able to assist to come forward.

Anyone interested can contact scoilmhuire@coolcotts.com.
Irish Rail is to operate a shuttle train service over the Easter bank holiday weekend between Greystones and Bray as engineering works will once more mean that on Saturday, Sunday and bank holiday Monday (March 30  April 1), Dart services will operate between Howth/Malahide to Grand Canal Dock and between Grand Canal Dock to Howth/Malahide only.

There will be no train service between Grand Canal Dock and Bray/Greystones.

Stations at Lansdowne Road, Sandymount, Sydney Parade, Booterstown, Blackrock, Seapoint, Salthill & Monkstown, Dun Laoghaire, Sandycove & Glasthule, Glenageary, Dalkey, Killiney, Shankill and Bray will be closed for the full three days.

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The transport provider has now advised that a shuttle service will operate between Bray and Greystones.

It follows a recent meeting between councillors in Greystones and Irish Rail, when Councillor Stephen Stokes requested such a service in the event no works are planned on this section of the line.

"I am delighted that Irish Rail agreed to this request, Cllr Stokes said. Of course, there will still be disruption for many people, but hopefully this will make travel a little easier. I am grateful to Irish Rail for making this request a reality."

Cllr Stokes has advised that the shuttle trains on Saturday, March 30, 2024, will operate at normal Saturday times.

The shuttle trains on Sunday, March 31, and Monday, April 1 will operate at Sunday service times.

"I would like to especially commend the Bray Station Manager, Ciaran Devitt, for his vision and leadership to make this happen. He is brilliant to work with. This commitment is good news, Cllr Stokes concluded.

Irish Rail said Dublin Bus/Go-Ahead Ireland will accept valid rail tickets on services between closed stations.

Rail users should also note that disruptions will affect services on the following dates:

Saturday May 4 to Monday May 6

Saturday May 18

Sunday June 9

On these dates, once more DART services will operate between Howth/Malahide to Grand Canal Dock and between Grand Canal Dock to Howth/Malahide only. There will be no train service between Grand Canal Dock and Bray/Greystones.
Parade Grand Marshall Desi OToole with The Over The Hill Gang and The Warg Riders MCC before the St Patricks Day parade in Bray.

Christ Church COI

Services of Worship for this Sunday Easter Day: 11am Holy Communion.

Recycled Teenagers: Meet today (Wednesday) at 10.30am in the PLC.

Holy Week Timetable: Tomorrow (Holy Thursday): 8pm Maundy Thursday Service; Good Friday: Bray Head Way of the Cross starting at 10am from Our Lady Queen of Peace Church; Vigil Service from 2pm to 3pm and Passion Service at 8pm in Christ Church. Easter Sunday: Dawn Service in Bray Head Car Park, and Holy Communion at 11am in Christ Church.

Save the Date: The Christ Church Parish Fete will take place on Saturday May 18th.

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.

Monthly Ladies Meeting: For details see: www.christianassemblybray.com.

Cornerstone Church at The Well

Worship this Sunday: 11am.

Holy Redeemer Parish

Contact Holy Redeemer Parish: Call (01) 2868413. Website: www.holyredeemerbray.ie; Email: office@holyredeemerbray.ie.

Parish Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 9.30am to 11am. If you need to contact us email: office@holyredeemer.ie.

Mass Times: 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.

Holy Week Timetable: Today (Wednesday): Mass at 10am followed by Confessions; tomorrow (Holy Thursday): 10am to 11am Confessions; 7pm Mass of the Lords Supper. The Church will remain open until 9pm afterwards for private prayer; Good Friday: 10am to 11am Confessions; 12 Noon Stations of the Cross; 3pm The Lords Passion; Holy Saturday: 12 noon Reconciliation Service; 1pmBlessing of Food (Easter European Tradition); 9pm Easter Vigil Mass; Easter Sunday: Mass at 10.30am and 12 noon.

Easter Timetable: Easter Monday: Mass at 10am. Wednesday April 3rd to Saturday April 6th: Mass at 10am. Saturday April 6th: 6pm Vigil Mass, Sunday April 7th: Masses as usual.

Mass Cards: Mass Cards may be purchased from the Parish Office during its opening hours.

Baptism: Registration for Baptism can be made online via the parish website www.holyredeemerbray.ie.

St Peters Parish

To Book a Mass: To book a Mass, please contact the Parish Office on 01- 282 9467 or email: stpeterslittlebray1@gmail.com.

Parish Office: Parish Office opening hours areMonday: 9.30am to 12.30pm; Tuesday: 9am to 12.30pm; Wednesday: Closed; Thursday: 9am to 12.30pm; Friday: 9am to 12.30pm. The parish office can be contacted by calling 01-282 4967 or by email: stpeterslittlebray1@gmail.com.

St. Peters Church Mass Times: Sunday: 9.30am (Irish), 11.30am. Holy Days of Obligation: 11.30am. 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.

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

Parish Website: www.queenofpeace.ie.

Church Opening Hours: The Church closes at 4.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Eucharistic Adoration: Eucharistic Adoration takes place from 11am to 10pm on Mondays only in this Church.

Mass: Weekday Masses are celebrated at 10.30am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Weekend Masses are at 6.30pm on Saturdays and 10.30am and 12 Noon on Sundays.

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

Some of the leaders in the Queen of Peace Adventure Youth Club are looking forward to climbing Croagh Patrick in April. Club activities in the near future include first aid training, water safety course, cooking out, swimming, climbs on the Big Sugarloaf and Djouce Mountains, and a visit to the Maritime Museum in Dun Laoghaire.

Diving club

Bray Divers Sub-aqua Club welcome new member David Emerson. David will begin training right away and may be a qualified one star diver before the May Bank Holiday weekend. His training course time table will be scheduled to suit his availability. There is available space for another four candidates on the course. Call 0876756439 for details about how to enjoy the best of the summer weather underwater.

Bray Library

Opening hours are 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday with late opening on Tuesday and Thursday until 8.30pm. The library will be closed this Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and next Monday due to Easter, re-opening as normal next Tuesday at 10am. The library can be contacted at 01-2862600 or email: braylib@wicklowcoco.ie.

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. Bray Library Knitting and Crochet will meet on Wednesdays between 3pm and 4 p.m. until Wednesday September 25th just come along, no need to book. Bray Library Crime Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 7pm. To book a place email: braylib@wicklowcoco.ie.

There will be a lunchtime recital with Chien Buggie at 12pm on Wednesday April 10th. All are welcome no need to book.

Ballywaltrim Library

Opening hours are 10am to 5 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and 10am to 8pm on Wednesday. The library is closed on the Saturdays and Mondays on Bank Holiday weekends. The library will be closed this Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and next Monday due to Easter, reopening next Tuesday at 10am. The library can be contacted at 01-2723205 or by email at: ballywatrimlibrary@wicklowcoco.ie.

Sensory Space +Sensory Kits: Our Sensory space provides A relaxing and colourful sensory experience. Sensory kits can also be issued at the desk (for use in the library only). STEM Saturdays: 10am to 11.30am Booking is essential. FAST Sensory Toy Collection: Our FAST toy collection features over 140 items divided into four functional categories: Gross Motor skills, Fine Motor skills, Language, Social, Life and Play Skills and Sensory & Tactile. A catalogue is available to view in the library or on-line. Quilting Group & Knitting Group: Runs fortnightly, each group meets on alternating Wednesdays between 6.30pm and 8pm. Tummy Time (0-12 month olds): Mondays and Fridays between 10.30am and 12pm no booking required. Storytime for all: Saturdays at 11.30am. (Saturday times may change). Ballywaltrim Book Clubs: Meets on a Wednesday and Saturday of each month between 3pm and 4pm. Enquiries to library staff. (Saturday times may change). Bookaneers Book Club: Junior Book Club contact the library for more details. Coder Dojo: Wednesdays between 5pm and 6.30pm (September to May only).

Bray Cualann Historical Society

Margaret McGuirk was the guest speaker last Thursday night for the March meeting of the Bray Cualann Historical Society, the local history society for Bray and North Wicklow, in the Royal Hotel, Bray, where she presented her lecture on The Phoenix Park, Dublin.

Members and supporters of the Bray Cualann Historical Society are asked to note that today (Wednesday) Dr. Elizabethanne Boran will present her lecture Writing medieval Irish history in early modern Ireland: aims, annals and antiquities at 3pm in the Worth Library, Dr. Stevens Hospital, Dublin 8. Admission free but booking is required:email: info@edewardworthlibrary.ie; Stephen Ferguson will present Miniature masterpieces a century of Irish stamps and a window on the Irish soul 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 and no booking is required; tomorrow (Thursday) Ciaran Cooney will present the annual Irish Railway Record Film Show on Railways of Waterford and Cork filmed by Joe St. Ledger during the 1960s and 70s at 7.30pm in the Societys Hueston Station. Dublin. Strictly members and their guests only; next Wednesday Wednesday Dublin City Council Historian in Residence (Dublin South East) Dr. Cormac Moore will present The Aftermath of the Easter Rising at 6.30pm in Rathmines Library, Rathmines Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6. Admission is free and all are welcome; Matthew Stout will present Ringforts at 8pm to the Rathmichael Historical Society in Rathmichael National School, Stonebridge Road, Shankill, Co. Dublin. Admission is 5 for non-members. The next meeting of the Bray Cualann Historical Society will take place at 8pm on Thursday April 18th in the Royal Hotel, Main Street, Bray, when Peadar Curran will present his lecture on The Ice Houses of Dublin and Wicklow. All are welcome admission is 8 for non-members.

The Bray Cualann Historical Society is always interested in new members and those wishing to join the Society can do so at the Thursday April 18th meeting of the Society 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.
The Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Aoife Flynn Kennedy was in Athlone on Sunday, March 24, together with her Fine Gael colleague and Cathaoirleach of Bray Municipal District Councillor Melanie Corrigan, to report on an absolutely packed room and a powerful and passionate speech from our new party leader and friend Simon Harris.

Cllr Corrigan extended her congratulations to the new party leader and almost Taoiseach and praised a fantastic first speech in the role, full of enthusiasm, wisdom and motivation to work hard.

She singled out Deputy Harriss inclusion of a quote from Seamus Heaney, which gives an indication of how he means to continue, even before he has started. (Although, there is an argument that the line was actually written by former president of the Czech Republic, Vaclav Havel).

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Hope is not optimism, which expects things to turn out well, but something rooted in the conviction that there is good worth working for, the Taoiseach-in-waiting said.

Elsewhere, the members of Fine Gael South Wicklow/North Wexford constituency said they were excited and invigorated by the decisiveness and emphatic support the party has shown in the selection of Deputy Simon Harris TD, as leader of the Fine Gael Party and as candidate to be the 15th Taoiseach of Ireland.

Its members went on to say that Deputy Harris has shown true dedication to his role as a public servant, supporting communities the length and breath of Ireland.

While pointing to Deputy Harriss Greystones roots, they also wanted to highlight his close links to Gorey and Arklow, through his wife, Caoimhe Wades family, adding that we hope this will bring additional focus to this long-neglected part of the country.

We thank Caoimhe, his wife and his children for their support of Simon, without whom he would not be able to do the amazing job he has done so far. We wish him every good fortune in this new role.

Arklow Councillor Sylvester Bourke added: I am absolutely thrilled for Deputy Simon Harris to become our leader and Taoiseach. With his skills and proven ability to deliver, he will be an excellent Taoiseach. And Donal OSullivan, Fine Gael South Wicklow/North Wexford Constituency Chairman, commented: Deputy Simon Harris has been active within Wicklow Fine Gael for over 20 years and has proven in that time his dedication to public life through his hard work, boundless energy and compassion. We look forward to being led by him in the upcoming elections.

Meanwhile, Fianna Fail Wicklow CDC also extended its congratulations to Simon Harris and looked forward to his being formally elected Taoiseach in April.

Minister Harris is one of our local TDs, a partner in Government and will be the first Wicklow Taoiseach. Here in Wicklow, we have watched the new Taoiseach from his younger days in Greystones, through his first local election wins on Greystones Town Council and Wicklow County Council in 2009, to his election as TD in 2011. He has always performed well, has kept his local connections alive and is committed to Ireland.

And former Fianna Fail councillor and Lord Mayor of Greystones, Kathleen Kelleher, who watched Simon for many years, since canvassing with him when he was a teenager, also extended her hearty congratulations.

He grew up in Redford Park, right next door to me in Rathdown Park, she said. He told me, as a youngster, that he would be Taoiseach one day.

And he is. I lost my Wicklow County Council seat to him in 2009, but kept my Greystones Town Council seat. However, even then, 15 years ago, his determination and skills were evident. His energy during the 2009 campaign is still remembered by all who were here at the time.

The bottles of water with his name on them, giving out oranges, candy rock with his name on it. The costumed bunny at Fiona Roche Pharmacy waving to everyone going by. The wrapped jeeps with his photo and campaign message. The dozens of his friends on the canvass trail. Simon has put those skills to good use over many years for the benefit of Wicklow. Now he will do the same for Ireland.

Finally, as Higher Education Minister, Deputy Harris was a staunch supporter of Bray Institute of Further Education and was also a member of the BIFE Board of Management.

Principal Ray Tedders remarked on his energy and passion for further and higher education, and described him as a breath of fresh air.

He has overseen many progressive developments from the establishment of the new Technical Universities, apprenticeships, and new pathways to degrees for PLC students, to name a few. BIFE, currently, are collaborating in two new degrees with Institute of Art Design and Technology in Dun Laoghaire, thanks to Simons initiative in creating alternative routes to degree level for further education students, he said.

BIFE has been chosen as a FET College of the Future, one of 10 such developments that Simons department are funding. He has been an outstanding advocate for further and higher education and has genuinely improved the position of further and higher education students in Ireland. BIFE is immensely proud of Simons appointment as he has been so involved and supportive of BIFE, he concluded.
American Riviera Orchard: What we know about Meghan Markles new California-inspired lifestyle brand

The Duchess of Sussex has launched a new brand  but what exactly is it?

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex walks onstage during the Breaking Barriers, Shaping Narratives: How Women Lead On and Off the Screen panel during the 2024 SXSW Conference and Festival at Austin Convention Center on March 08, 2024 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Astrida Valigorsky/Getty Images)

Nicole Vassell and Maira Butt  UK Independent Wed 27 Mar 2024 at 14:00

Meghan Markle took many by surprise by launching a new lifestyle brand this month, complete with a social media page and a website.
Maura Higgins has been enjoying some R&R with a five-star trip to Dubai following her split from Chris Hemsworth body double Bobby Holland Hanton.

It was reported last week that the Longford beauty and the stuntman have gone their separate ways after 10 months together.

Since the news broke, Maura has been enjoying a luxury break in Dubai, where she has been enjoying five-star treatment.

The former Love Island star has spent time at the five star Rixos Premium hotel which costs more than 500 per night for a room.

The 33-year-old also shared snaps of lunch at the San Beach Dubai and has been taking in Pilates classes while in Dubai.

Maura has been joined on holiday by her best pal Leah Taylor who appeared on last summers series of ITV dating show Love Island.

The girls have enjoyed massages and breathtaking views of the sunset during their stay at the high-end hotel.

Maura has been one of the break-out stars from all series of the hit dating show and her career has gone from strength to strength since she appeared on the programme in 2019.

Maura in Dubai

The brunette star made it to the final with professional dancer Curtis Pritchard but the couple split month later.

Maura has since dated fellow Love Islander Chris Taylor and Strictly star Giovanni Pernice before falling for stuntman Bobby.

Maura and Bobby were first linked last May and were later spotted kissing while sunbathing on a beach in Ibiza together.

Its reported that while the couple enjoyed their time together, Maura who is based in London realised that there was no future for the pair.

In January, Maura rang in the the New Year with a series of throwback shots from 2023, including a distant image of her and Bobby embracing on a beach.

In December, Maura Higgins appeared on the Late Late Show where she told Patrick Kielty that she was loved up.

I am no more single. Very happy relationship, she said as the audience cheered.

She then revealed her boyfriend was sitting in the studio audience to support her, saying: He is. He's there somewhere.

Patrick then teased: He's a good looking devil, I'm not going to lie and Maura commented Oh he is.

Christ Hemsworth with Bobby

The news comes after Maura shared a series of photos on Instagram last week, including one of her smiling beside A-list actor Chris Hemsworth.

She wrote: Throwbacks is all I have right now.

Speaking about her social media detox, Maura wrote: Life is all about balance and your mental health is the most important thing.

Always remember to take some time to unplug and set aside the world for a few moments to focus on yourself.

Chris and Maura

Bobby, who was previously married to beautician Rachel Hunter and is stepdad to her 10-year-old daughter, has acted as a stuntman for major movie stars such as Chris Hemsworth, Daniel Craig, Henry Cavill, Ryan Reynolds, Channing Tatum, and Jake Gyllenhaal.

Bobby and Chris sparked up a friendship on set and Chris contracted Bobby to be his stunt double for all future Marvel flicks.

The pair have even launched a fitness app called Centr together, and regularly share photos with each other on social media.

Maura has been in huge demand since her time on Love Island and her work has included fronting campaigns for lingerie brand Ann Summers and TV gigs, including for Love Island USA.
A little girl looks on while her mother carries baby diapers after collecting them from a distribution centre in the city of Kamaishi in Iwate prefecture (AFP via Getty Images)
The director of Russias most powerful security agency said yesterday he believed Ukraine, along with the United States and the UK, were involved in the attack on a concert hall just outside Moscow that killed at least 139 people.
Israel recalls negotiators from Doha saying ceasefire talks at dead end

Benjamin Netanyahus office said Hamas had made delusional demands, while Hamas accused Israel of stalling talks

Demonstrators in Tel Aviv call for the return of hostages held in Gaza since October 7. Photo: Reuters

Dan Williams and Rami Amichay Wed 27 Mar 2024 at 03:30







Israel has recalled its negotiators from Doha after deeming mediated talks on a Gaza truce at a dead end due to demands by Hamas, a senior Israeli official said yesterday.
Francesca Albanese, UN special rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories, attends a side event during the Human Rights Council at the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, March 26, 2024. REUTERS/Denis Balibouse

A United Nations expert told the global bodys Human Rights Council that she believed that Israels military campaign in Gaza since Oct. 7 amounted to genocide and called on countries to immediately impose sanctions and an arms embargo.

I find that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the threshold indicating the commission of the crime of genocide against Palestinians as a group in Gaza has been met, Francesca Albanese, the U.N. Special Rapporteur on human rights in the Occupied Territories, told the U.N. rights body in Geneva.
Baltimore bridge collapse: Six missing construction workers presumed dead as search suspended

Missing bridge crew are all family men from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico.

Six presumed dead after cargo ship rammed Baltimore bridge triggering collapse

Arpan Rai, Amelia Neath and Kelly Rissman  UK Independent Wed 27 Mar 2024 at 15:07







The search for the six missing workers has been suspended, with authorities saying that there was no hope of finding them alive in what is a terrible, unanticipated tragedy.
Traffic snarled across Baltimore on Tuesday after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge forced vehicles to divert to other congested harbour crossings, raising the spectre of nightmarish commutes for residents for months or even years to come.





Drivers traveling north or south between major eastern U.S. cities such as New York and Washington were left with just two ways to cross Baltimore's harbour after a container ship smashed into the bridge early Tuesday morning, crumpling most of it into the water and opening a gap in the city's beltway.





Both alternate routes are tunnels closer to Baltimore's busy downtown, where a flood of diverted cars and trucks exacerbated already clogged roadways on Tuesday, according to local radio reports and residents. About 35,000 vehicles used to cross the Key Bridge daily, according to Maryland state authorities.





"This is a big mess, a total traffic meltdown," said Dex Dunbar, 29, who lives just across the now-submerged bridge from his mother, in a phone interview.





Visiting his mother, who often babysits his 3-year-old son, is normally a 10-minute drive but it took Dunbar almost an hour on Tuesday, he said. The alternate routes across the harbor will also add as much as an hour to Dunbar's work commute to the state comptroller's office in Annapolis, Maryland's capital.





"I know there are bigger problems in the world, but we might have to live with this for many months, maybe a year, who knows," Dunbar said.





The Baltimore County Police Department on Tuesday reassigned officers to traffic duty, re-routing commuters and trying to ease the congestion, in addition to dispatching a marine unit and a dive team to assist in the rescue and recover efforts, according to a spokesperson.





Trucks carrying hazardous materials, as well as those taller than 14.5 feet (4.42 meters) or wider than 11 feet (3.35 meters), cannot pass through either of the two tunnels traversing Baltimore's harbor and were directed by the Maryland Transportation Authority to take a lengthy detour around the city's western outer loop.





Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld told a press conference that additional resources would be deployed to help ease the congestion, but did not share specific details.





On social media, commuters vented their fears about how the loss of the Key Bridge would exacerbate traffic in a city already known for long commutes.





"Traffic between Baltimore and northern VA already a nightmare and now it's gonna be worse?!??!?" wrote a user on X.





The disaster had ripple effects beyond snarling traffic and alarming commuters. Two days before their opening game in the new baseball season, the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday canceled their open workout at the team's Camden Yards downtown stadium, citing "today's tragedy" in a post on X.





Rich McKay - Reuters




Taylor Swifts father will not face charges after alleged photographer assault in Sydney

New South Wales police have confirmed no further action would be taken after a month-long investigation

Taylor Swifts father will not face charges after alleged assault in Sydney (Doug PetersPA)

Ellie Iorizzo Wed 27 Mar 2024 at 08:14







Taylor Swifts father will not face police charges over accusations he punched a photographer in Australia.
Investing in Odisha State in India: Economic Outlook and Opportunities

Odisha is a coastal state situated in the eastern part of India with a coastline of 480km. It is bounded by the Bay of Bengal on the east, Chhattisgarh state on the west, and Andhra Pradesh state to the south.

Given the state is well connected to major trade and manufacturing hubs in Asia, the Odisha government pitches the state as a gateway to the ASEAN region. Odisha hosts the Paradip port, eastern Indias largest port, which connects the state to Southeast Asian markets.

Odisha possesses significant mineral reserves, including 28 percent of Indias iron ore, 24 percent of its coal, 59 percent of bauxite, and 98 percent of chromite deposits. This abundance of resources has drawn the interest of numerous mining and metallurgical firms.

Economic profile of Odisha

The sector-wise contribution to Odishas economy was estimated to be 29 percent for the agriculture sector, 31 percent for the manufacturing sector, and 40 percent for the services sector in 2021-22, at current prices.

Mineral sector

Odisha possesses a distinctive advantage in enticing investments in ancillary and downstream metal industries. A resource-rich coastal state in India, Odisha holds the distinction of having the highest mineral production in the country.

The state government has taken proactive measures to attract more investments. In 2023, it introduced the Long Term Linkage (LTL) policy. The policy is offering long-term ore linkages for iron ore, chrome, bauxite, and limestone produced by the Odisha Mineral Corporation (OMC). This linkage will be available to investors establishing end-use plants, with provisions for greenfield or expansion projects, regardless of whether they have mechanized evacuation systems.

Several companies have made significant investments in Odisha, with one of the most notable being the JSW Group. They are currently in the process of establishing an integrated steel manufacturing complex in Paradip, Odisha, with an estimated investment of INR 650 billion (US$ 7.84 billion). Others who are investing are the Kalyani group, ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel (AMNS), etc.

Food processing sector

Odisha stands out as one of Indias agriculturally rich states, renowned for its abundant production of fruits, rice, pulses, and other major crops. With 363,000 hectares dedicated to agriculture and horticulture, this sector continues to expand steadily. The state boasts a thriving poultry industry, recognized as a significant agricultural activity, alongside promising opportunities for value-added dairy products.

Recognizing the potential in food processing, Odisha has identified it as one of the six key focus sectors. To support this, the state introduced an exclusive Food Processing Policy in 2022, offering competitive incentives to encourage units to establish themselves within its borders. Benefiting from robust logistics infrastructure, including access to Paradip and Dhamra ports, Odisha enjoys seamless connectivity to both domestic and international markets. This strategic advantage has attracted several major players in the food processing sector, including ITC, Coca Cola, Britannia, Parle, Indo-Nissin, Anmol, and Surya Foods, among others, who have chosen to set up operations in the state.

As part of the Central governments initiatives for supply chain modernization, Odisha state has established two Mega Food Parks. The Mega Food Parks Project seeks to create modern infrastructure for food processing along the entire value chain from farm to market, with robust forward and backward linkages through a cluster-based approach.

Name of Mega Food Park Date of final approval District Status Odisha Industrial Infra Dev Corp (IDCO) November 6, 2015 Khordha Ongoing MITS Mega Food Park Limited April 16, 2012 Rayagada Completed

Semiconductor sector

Odisha state is working to set up a semiconductor base, which is currently at an early stage of development. To capitalize on the Central governments initiatives aimed at attracting semiconductor manufacturers to the country, Odisha has introduced its own package of incentives to make the proposition more appealing under its Semiconductor Manufacturing and Fabless Policy-2023.

According to the policy, Silicon, Compound, Display, and Advanced Technology Manufacturing Plants (ATMP) will receive attractive incentives of 25 percent, in addition to the 50 percent incentive offered by the Government of India. Fabless product/IP companies will also enjoy a significant 20 percent incentive. Furthermore, Odisha will aid 25 undergraduate and 25 postgraduate institutes, supporting their research and development (R&D) activities as well as capacity building efforts.

In February 2024, the policy underwent further amendments to enhance the incentives provided to manufacturers. The amendments to fiscal support mechanisms include interest subvention, Production Linked Incentives (PLI), and investments in R&D and skill development training.

The amended Semiconductor Manufacturing and Fabless Policy-2023 allows mega projects with investments exceeding INR 5 billion to easily access an upper limit of INR 250 million per year for 7 years towards interest subsidy. The previous 5 percent cap on interest subvention has been removed.

Furthermore, these mega projects are eligible for reimbursement of R&D expenses up to INR 20 million annually for a decade.

Regarding the PLI incentive, all units can now apply for the incentive for a continuous period of 5 years within the initial 7-year production period.

In terms of skill development, eligible units will receive reimbursement of up to INR 20 million per year for 5 years to support the training of their core operations employees.

Textile sector

In recent years, Odisha has become a key center for textile production in eastern India. This development is credited to the supportive policies enacted by the state government, which have drawn significant apparel and textile companies such as Welspun, while also generating interest from entities like Mas Holding to make substantial investments in the sector.

In an effort to attract manufacturers to the region, the Odisha government introduced the Apparel and Technical Textile Policy 2022, which presents a range of incentives and measures aimed at promoting investment and expansion in the sector, including:

Capital Investment Subsidy: Eligible new industrial units can receive a 40 percent capital investment subsidy on actual investment made in Plant & Machinery, up to a maximum of INR 500 million, disbursed over a period of 5 years.

Eligible new industrial units can receive a 40 percent capital investment subsidy on actual investment made in Plant & Machinery, up to a maximum of INR 500 million, disbursed over a period of 5 years. Employment Cost Subsidy: New industrial units are eligible for subsidies on employment costs, providing INR 6000 per female worker and INR 5000 per male worker per month for a period of 5 years.

New industrial units are eligible for subsidies on employment costs, providing INR 6000 per female worker and INR 5000 per male worker per month for a period of 5 years. Market Development Initiative: Reimbursement of 50 percent of the actual cost incurred for participating in domestic and international exhibitions/trade events, capped at INR 300,000 per unit for domestic events and INR 600,000 per unit for international events.

Reimbursement of 50 percent of the actual cost incurred for participating in domestic and international exhibitions/trade events, capped at INR 300,000 per unit for domestic events and INR 600,000 per unit for international events. Environment-Friendly Infrastructure Incentives: Benefits as per the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR) 2022.

IT sector

Odisha is positioning itself as an emerging base in the IT sector. The state hosts leading IT companies  Infosys, TCS, IBM, and Tech Mahindra have set up in capital Bhubaneswar. Additionally, initiatives such as the establishment of IT parks, customized incentives for IT companies, and industry-friendly policies are cumulatively creating a conducive environment for IT firms.

The introduction of the Odisha IT Policy 2022, with competitive incentives and a focus on cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and cloud computing, further enhances the states attractiveness as an IT destination. Moreover, the states commitment to skill development, exemplified by initiatives like the Nutana Unnata Abhilasha (NUA) Odisha Scheme, underscores its focus to preparing a skilled workforce.

Investor facilitation in Odisha

The Odisha Industrial Policy Resolution 2022 is a key policy initiative aimed at positioning the state as a leading industrial center in Eastern India. This flagship document outlines the state governments vision for industrial transformation and highlights priority and thrust sectors in Odisha that will receive focused attention and incentives, both fiscal and non-fiscal, to spur growth and development.

Odisha Industrial Policy Resolution 2022: General provisions Employment generation subsidy 100 percent reimbursement in new industrial units in Priority and Thrust Sectors for a period of 5-7 years. Stamp duty exemption 100 percent Exemption Electric duty exemption 100 percent Exemptions for 7-10 years in priority and thrust sector State goods and services tax (SGST) reimbursement 100 percent reimbursement, limited to 200 percent of the cost of plant and machinery for priority and thrust sector Investment subsidy 20 percent (Priority Sector) or 30 percent (Thrust Sector) capital investment subsidy, disbursed over 5 years Land incentive Allocation of land in industrial areas at concessional industrial rates by IDCO. 100 percent exemption from payment of premium on land registration. New industrial units in Thrust Sectors, generating over 1000 jobs for state residents, qualify for land at 50 percent of the industrial rate (excluding BDA and CDA).

Odisha has implemented business-friendly reforms to enhance the states business environment. This includes the establishment of Go Swift, a Single Window Clearance system as mandated by the Odisha Industries (Facilitation) Act 2004, with the goal of simplifying the process for obtaining approvals and clearances for industrial projects. To implement this, an online Combined Application Form (CAF) has been introduced, which all relevant departments and authorities are obligated to accept and handle.

The government has also created Investment Facilitation Cells at both the state and district levels as part of its efforts to improve the investment climate and support industrial development. These cells, operating under Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha (IPICOL) at the state level and District Industries Centers (DICs) at the district level, aim to facilitate land allotment and approvals, ensuring timely processing of applications, conducting awareness programs for investors, and following up on approvals within specified timelines.

With inputs from Melissa Cyrill.
Photo Courtesy; PIB

French aerospace and defence firm Starburst Accelerator SARLis partnering withIndian Institute of Technology Madras(IIT Madras)to set up an innovative hub for start-upswith a funding support of 100 million (100 Million Euros).

Through this collaboration, IIT Madras will enable Starburst to set up accelerator programs to boost Aviation, Space, and Defence (ASD) ecosystem in India.

Starburst Accelerator SARLis looking to create venture capitalfunds for ASD technology, a powerful engine to drive the transformation of Indias economy and its integration with global stakeholders.

This partnership will enable export promotion and provide support for Indian ASD startups to explore international markets through the extensive network of Starburst.

An MoU towards this collaboration was signed at IIT Madras campus on Monday (25th March 2024) by Francois Chopard, Founder and CEO, Starburst Aerospace, Cedric Vallet, Innovation and Venture Director, Starburst Aerospace, and Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, Prof. Manu Santhanam, Dean (ICSR), IIT Madras, in the presence of representatives from IIT Madras and Starburst Aerospace.

Starburst is a global aerospace and defence accelerator, connecting startups with corporates, investors, and government. With offices in Los Angeles, Paris, Munich, Singapore, Seoul, Tel Aviv, and Madrid, the team has built an ecosystem of key players with 17,000+ startups in its network.

Starburst, known for its global network and deep industry knowledge, brings invaluable experience to the collaboration. By offering a conducive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship, the partnership aims to strengthen India's position as a hub for ASD innovation on the global stage.

Looking forward to this collaboration, Francois Chopard, Founder and CEO, Starburst Aerospace, said,We believe it is the right momentum to faster emergence of pioneer boundary-pushing technological innovations in India. We're proud and honoured to collaborate with IIT-Madras and work with such prestigious institution in the country. We together aim at creating a robust ASD ecosystem that support innovation in Deeptech, and the production in India, to meet the future challenges of Aerospace, New Space and Defence worldwide players.

A key focus of this partnership will be on entrepreneurs, research parks, investors (public and private), Government, and corporate firms. Starburst Accelerator SARLwill work towards achieving long-term Indian ASD program ambitions. The aim is to create innovative startups and help themgrow rapidly to work in tandem withfuture aerospace and New Space worldwide programs.

Highlighting the benefits to India from this Startup accelerator initiative, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said,Encouraging young entrepreneurs is extremely important as we embark on our journey to become a multi-trillion economy. To this effect, reputed higher educational institutions must aspire to nurture future employers than employees. In this context, such collaborations with accelerators to nurture startups in critical and emerging sectors are crucial and timely.

Starburst Accelerator SARLhas developed strong relationships with dozens of worldwide aerospace and defence legacy players, contributing to their strategic vision and growth strategy through consulting projects. Starburst will create a consulting team that can be composed of IIT Madras alumni and experienced military officers besides ASD managers and senior consultants from Starburst offices to help start-ups scale up in their growth journey.

This program will provide access to entrepreneurs and innovators, drive new technologies, business ideas, and models, and boost the Indian aerospace and defence innovation ecosystem. It will also allow startups and entrepreneurs to explore synergies and avenues of collaboration with Industry, Government, and beyond besides guiding them towards rapid implementation and global commercialization.

Structured programs will be created by combining academic knowledge with practical startup guidance, including workshops, seminars, and mentoring sessions for Indian Start-up clusters and research and innovative projects. Starburst will provide startups with business tools to grow and scale businesses in aerospace and defence to become future suppliers.

These measures will also help start-ups attract external capital, de-risk investments and accelerate development.
Photo courtesy: Facebook/Narendra Modi and BJP

New Delhi/Kolkata/IBNS: In quite a rare scenario, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday dialled Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s Lok Sabha poll candidate from West Bengal's Basirhat Rekha Patra, who was also the face of the Sandeshkhali protests, to encourage her, a couple of days after her name was announced by the party.

In the phone call, Modi called Patra, who led the protests against the alleged land grabbing and sexual abuse by local Trinamool Congress leaders, "Shakti Swaroopa".

When Modi asked, "You are going to play a huge responsibility. How do you feel?", she responded saying, "I feel great. Your blessings are with me and all Sandeshkhali women so it feels great. You are kind of God to me. It feels like Ram-ji and his blessings are with us."

In about a 9-10-minute phone call, Patra shared the ordeal women from Sandeshkhali had to face.

Patra shared, "Not just Sandeshkhali, women from the entire Basirhat were tortured. The accused in the Sandeshkhali case is already in the hands of ED. I want them to be punished.

Alleging they were deprived from voting for more than a decade, she said, "We couldn't vote since 2011 in Sandeshkhali. We want to cast votes this time with full security. The Sandeshkhali women will be even happier if they are able to cast their votes."

The Prime Minister, who is the supreme leader of BJP, ensured the Election Commission of India will look into the matter and take necessary steps for the free and fair elections in the state, which is ruled by TMC since 2011.

"It's sad to see how the Bengal government has treated people," said Modi, who was told by Patra that women from TMC who were protesting against her candidate have now taken a U-turn.

"A few TMC women had protested but now they have apologised and extended their support to me," said Patra.

Hoping that Patra will have a dream journey from Sandeshkhali to New Delhi after the elections, Modi said, "You are a kind of Shakti Swaroopa for the kind of battle you fought in Sandeshkhali. You have been able to send so many powerful people to jail. Do you have any idea how much courage you have shown!"

Who is Rekha Patra?

Patra, who is the survivor of the alleged sexual abuse by Shahajhan and his aides, is a resident of Sandeshkhali, which falls in the Basirhat constituency.

Patra had filed a complaint against Shahjahan's two aides, Uttam Sardar and Shibu Hazra, who have been arrested. She was the one who had recorded her statement before a court magistrate.

West Bengal Leader of Opposition and BJP MLA, Suvendu Adhikari, had visited Patra's house and as per reports, he had urged the central party leadership to nominate her as the candidate.

Patra will take on Trinamool Congress' Haji Nurul Islam, who has been fielded by the state's ruling party, dropping actress Nusrat Jahan, who was elected by a record margin of votes from the Muslim-dominated seat in 2019.

The Lok Sabha elections will be held in seven phases from April 19 to June 1. The results will be declared on June 4.
Photo courtesy: PIB

New Delhi/IBNS: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said the central government is planning to withdraw troops from Jammu and Kashmir gradually and lead the police to take charge.

Speaking to Jammu and Kashmir-based news channel, Gulistan News, Shah said, "Soon the police of Jammu and Kashmir will take care of law and order, and the troops will be withdrawn gradually. We have made a blueprint for seven years, and we are working on strengthening the police of Jammu and Kashmir."

"Most of the violent incidents are handled by the police since they are at the forefront, and the central forces support them. Therefore, a change in the culture can be witnessed," the Home Minister, who claimed the situation in Kashmir is getting back to normal, added.

Speaking of terrorism, Shah said the government will engage in dialogues with the youth of the erstwhile state but not with the organisations "originated from Pakistan".

Shah said, "We will engage in dialogue with the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. We won't talk to any organization that originated from Pakistan. They are responsible for the deaths of 40,000 people. We have barred multiple organizations.

"36 individuals have been declared terrorists, and we have registered around 22 cases to break the backbone of terrorism. Rs 150 crore worth of assets have been seized, 90 properties have been attached and 134 bank accounts have been frozen."

Shah, who is apparently the second most important minister in the current regime, said assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir will be completed by September 30 following the Supreme Court order.

In a historic decision, the Modi government in 2019 withdrew the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, abrogating Article 370 and 35A.

The government bifurcated Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories, Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Photo Courtesy: Arvind Kejriwal's Facebook page

India on Tuesday strongly objected to US State Department's remarks on the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and said New Delhi expects other states to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others.

"We take strong objection to the remarks of the Spokesperson of the US State Department about certain legal proceedings in India," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

"In diplomacy, states are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. This responsibility is even more so in case of fellow democracies. It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents," read the statement.

"Indias legal processes are based on an independent judiciary which is committed to objective and timely outcomes. Casting aspersions on that is unwarranted," the statement said.

According to a report published by Reuters news agency, a US official said the country encourage 'fair, transparent, and timely legal process for Chief Minister Kejriwal'.

Germany earlier reacted to Kejriwal's arrest

India on Saturday (March 23, 2024) lodged a strong protest against Germany's recent remark over the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is a key opposition leader of the poll-bound country, in the liquor policy case.

"The German Deputy Chief of Mission in New Delhi was summoned and conveyed Indias strong protest on their Foreign Office Spokespersons comments on our internal affairs," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

"We see such remarks as interfering in our judicial process and undermining the independence of our judiciary," the statement said.

"India is a vibrant and robust democracy with rule of law. As in all legal cases in the country, and elsewhere in the democratic world, law will take its own course in the instant matter. Biased assumptions made on this account are most unwarranted," the statement said.

India reacted just hours after the German Foreign Ministry said it expects Kejriwal to get fair and impartial trial.

"We have taken note, India is a democratic country. We assume and expect that the standards relating to independence of Judiciary and basic democratic principles will also be applied in this case. Like anyone facing accusations, Mr Kejriwal is entitled to a fair and impartial trial, this includes he can make use of all available legal avenues without restrictions. The presumption of innocence is a central element of the rule of law and must apply to him," the spokesperson of the German Foreign Ministry was quoted as saying by NDTV.

Kejriwal arrested ahead of Indian general polls

Kejriwal has become the first serving Chief Minister to be arrested and is the third senior leader from the party to be arrested in connection with the Delhi liquor policy scam.

The arrest comes hours after a team from the ED questioned him at his residence under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

The arrest was made just weeks before India voted in the first phase of the Lok Sabha (Lower House of the Indian Parliament) polls on April 19.

This time, India will vote in seven phases to elect their Parliament representatives.

The counting of votes will take place on June 4.
Photo Courtesy: UNI

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday warned the lawyers of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legal cell, protesting against the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, to carry out protests at their peril.

The division bench, comprising Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, questioned how protests can be held by lawyers on court premises.

The matter pertains to a call given by the legal cell of AAP that the lawyers will conduct a protest in all district courts of Delhi as well as the High Court.

The State President of the AAP legal cell, Advocate Sanjeev Nasiar, had given a call to all lawyers to gather in huge numbers to stage their protest on the way Arvind Kejriwal was arrested, showing that there was a conspiracy against him.

He said to show its support for Kejriwal, the lawyers' community has decided to hold a massive protest on Wednesday, March 28 at 12:30 pm.

The letter written by Sanjeev Nasiar said that advocates will gather at all district courts in Delhi, including the Patiala House Court, Dwarka Court, Saket Court, Karkardooma Court, Tis Hazari Court, and Rouse Avenue Court, and hold the agitation there, added Nasiar, who is also the Vice Chairman of the Bar Council of Delhi.

After Justice Manmohan, the Acting Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court, was told that the lawyers from all the courts would protest against the arrest of Kejriwal, Justice Manmohan said that the consequences are very severe for organising such a protest in court.

Justice Manmohan said, it may hear the matter tomorrow, it also issued a warning to the lawyers intending to protest inside the court premises.

Justice Manmohan said that protesting against arrest in the court premises will have serious consequences, and the law laid down by the Supreme Court will be applied. He further added that the court cant be withheld and cant be stopped. He mentioned that litigants cannot be prevented from entering the courts.

The Delhi High Court said that the AAP legal cell cannot take away someones fundamental right to approach the court, that is the settled law, adding that if someone does it, he will do it at their peril, and the court will take action if required

The BCI Chairman and Senior Advocate, Manan Kumar Mishra, appealed in a press release to the legal fraternity of the national capital to resist engaging in unwarranted agitation or succumbing to divisive politics.

Mishra also urged the fraternity to uphold the integrity and dignity of the noble profession, refraining from any movement until a competent court unequivocally establishes CM Arvind Kejriwals innocence or declares his arrest unjust or unlawful.

Despite the warnings of the Delhi High Court, the lawyers collected in huge numbers and staged a protest under the leadership of Sanjiv Nasiar.

(With UNI inputs)
Photo Courtesy: S Jaishankar X page

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed defence, security and maritime cooperation while meeting Philippines Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo during his visit to Manila.

Jaishankar posted on X: "Warm and productive meeting with @SecManalo of Philippines.Wide ranging discussion on advancing ties in political, defense, security & maritime cooperation, trade & investment, infrastructure, development cooperation, education, digital, technology, culture and consular domains."

"Exchanged views on global, regional and multilateral issues including Indo-Pacific, ASEAN, West Asia, Ukraine, NAM and UN. As two democracies committed to a rules-based order, look forward to intensifying our cooperation," he said.

Warm and productive meeting with @SecManalo of Philippines.



Wide ranging discussion on advancing ties in political, defense, security & maritime cooperation, trade & investment, infrastructure, development cooperation, education, digital, technology, culture and consular pic.twitter.com/NLf557FFs3  Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) March 26, 2024

Jaishankar, at the invitation of his counterparts, is currently on an official visit to Singapore, Philippines and Malaysia from 23 to 27 March 2024.

He is currently visiting Malaysia after completing his trip to the other nation.

"The visit will focus on enhancing bilateral relations with the three countries, and would provide an opportunity for engagement on regional issues of mutual concern," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
Photo courtesy: IBNS File

Kolkata/IBNS: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has pulled up its national vice president and former West Bengal unit chief Dilip Ghosh for his controversial remarks against state Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee right at the start of his campaign for the upcoming General Elections.

Ghosh, who has been fielded by the BJP from Bardhaman-Durgapur seat, questioned Mamata's paternal details in an all-out attack on the Chief Minister.

The remark which had irked the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) reads, "When she goes to Goa, she claims to be the daughter of the state. When she goes to Tripura, she claims to be the daughter of the state... She should clarify who her father is. It's not good to be anybody's daughter."

In response to Ghosh's remarks, the TMC lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India (ECI) and alleged it was a violation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

Pulling up the leader, BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda told Ghosh that the party does not endorse his derogatory remarks and sought an explanation.

Following the criticism from his own party, Ghosh, who has courted several controversies with his remarks in the past, apologised but that did not stop him from targeting the TMC leaders.

"I have criticised the Chief Minister's kind of politics and in the way, I used some words which didn't go down well with several people and also my party. I apologise for that," Ghosh said and added, "But a leader from her (Mamata Banerjee) party and family had attacked the father of my colleague Suvendu Adhikari. Doesn't a male politician have any respect?"

During the 2021 assembly elections, Ghosh had courted controversy by suggesting Mamata to wear bermudas if she wanted to show off legs.

The context is Mamata was injured in one of her legs and she went on a wheelchair to campaign for the whole elections.

Ghosh, who won the parliamentary elections from Midnapore in 2019, has been shifted to Bardhaman-Durgapur seat by his party to take on TMC candidate Kirti Azad.
In images Supriya Shrinate (Facebook) & Dilip Ghosh (IBNS File)

New Delhi/IBNS: The Election Commission has issued show cause notices to Congress leader Supriya Shrinate and the Bharatiya Janata Party's Dilip Ghosh over "derogatory" remarks against actor-turned-politician-Kangana Ranaut - the BJP's candidate for Himachal Pradesh's Mandi Lok Sabha - and Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

"... on careful examination, the comment(s) have been found to be 'undignified and in bad taste', and to be prima facie violative of provisions of the Model Code of Conduct..." the poll panel said.

Shrinate and Ghosh have been given time till 5 pm Friday to explain their stands. "In the event of no response... it will be presumed you have nothing to say..." the ECI said.

Surpiya Shrinate's remarks on Kangana:

A massive row erupted following Congress leader Supriya Shrinate's Instagram post on Kangana Ranaut just weeks ahead of the beginning of the Lok Sabha elections.

Shrinate posted a picture of Kangana with a caption which triggered a massive row.

Hitting back at the Congress spokesperson, Kangana, who has secured a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi, posted a screenshot of the post on her X handle.

In the X post, Kangana called out Shrinate and highlighted how she portrayed all kinds of women on screen in a career spanning 20 years.

She wrote, "Dear Supriya ji In the last 20 years of my career as an artist I have played all kinds of women. From a naive girl in Queen to a seductive spy in Dhaakad, from a goddess in Manikarnika to a demon in Chandramukhi, from a prostitute in Rajjo to a revolutionary leader in Thalaivii."

In her defence, Shrinate later said the post had been made without her knowledge.

"Many people have access to my Facebook and Instagram accounts. Someone from them made an extremely inappropriate post today. As soon as I came to know, I deleted that post. Everyone who knows me knows I can never make personal and indecent comments towards any woman," she said.

Tthe National Commission of Women has also sent a letter to the Election Commission calling for action against Shrinate.

Dilip Ghosh's remarks against Mamata Banerjee:

Meanwhile, Dilip Ghosh, who has been fielded by the BJP from Bardhaman-Durgapur seat, has questioned Mamata's paternal details in an all-out attack on the Bengal Chief Minister.

The remark which had irked the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) reads, "When she goes to Goa, she claims to be the daughter of the state. When she goes to Tripura, she claims to be the daughter of the state... She should clarify who her father is. It's not good to be anybody's daughter."

In response to Ghosh's remarks, the TMC complained to the Election Commission of India (ECI) and alleged that it was a violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

Pulling up the leader, BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda told Ghosh that the party does not endorse his derogatory remarks and sought an explanation.

Following the criticism from his own party, Ghosh, who has courted several controversies with his remarks in the past, apologised but that did not stop him from targeting the TMC leaders.

"I have criticised the Chief Minister's kind of politics and in the way, I used some words which didn't go down well with several people and also my party. I apologise for that," Ghosh said and added, "But a leader from her (Mamata Banerjee) party and family had attacked the father of my colleague Suvendu Adhikari. Doesn't a male politician have any respect?"
In image Supriya Shrinate & Kangana Ranaut/ courtesy: Facebook

New Delhi/IBNS: The Congress Wednesday dropped Supriya Shrinate as a candidate from the constituency she contested in 2019, amid outrage over her remarks on actor Kangana Ranaut, the Bharatiya Janata Party's pick from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi.

Shrinate had contested the last Lok Sabha polls from Uttar Pradesh's Maharajganj but lost to BJP's Pankaj Chaudhary.

This time, Congress has named Virendra Chaudhary as its choice from the seat, dropping Shrinate, who is caught in a massive political controversy over her post on Kangana Ranaut.

Surpiya Shrinate's remarks on Kangana:

A massive row erupted following Congress leader Supriya Shrinate's Instagram post on Kangana Ranaut just weeks ahead of the beginning of the Lok Sabha elections.

Shrinate posted a picture of Kangana with a caption which triggered a massive row.

Hitting back at the Congress spokesperson, Kangana, who has secured a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi, posted a screenshot of the post on her X handle.

In the X post, Kangana called out Shrinate and highlighted how she portrayed all kinds of women on screen in a career spanning 20 years.

She wrote, "Dear Supriya ji In the last 20 years of my career as an artist I have played all kinds of women. From a naive girl in Queen to a seductive spy in Dhaakad, from a goddess in Manikarnika to a demon in Chandramukhi, from a prostitute in Rajjo to a revolutionary leader in Thalaivii."

Dear Supriya ji

In the last 20 years of my career as an artist I have played all kinds of women. From a naive girl in Queen to a seductive spy in Dhaakad, from a goddess in Manikarnika to a demon in Chandramukhi, from a prostitute in Rajjo to a revolutionary leader in Thalaivii. pic.twitter.com/GJbhJTQAzW  Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) March 25, 2024

In her defence, Shrinate later said the post had been made without her knowledge.

"Many people have access to my Facebook and Instagram accounts. Someone from them made an extremely inappropriate post today. As soon as I came to know, I deleted that post. Everyone who knows me knows I can never make personal and indecent comments towards any woman," she said.

The National Commission of Women has also sent a letter to the Election Commission calling for action against Shrinate.

The Election Commission has also sought response from Shrinate over her remarks.
Photo Courtesy: Sretta Thavisin X page

Thailands House of Representatives, the lower house of the country, on Wednesday (March 27, 2024) voted to legitimise same-sex marriage.

Before the step becomes law, it needs approval from the Senate and royal endorsement.

If the next steps are approved then Thailand will become the first and only South East Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage.

The lower house of parliament passed the bill following a third and final reading, with 400 representatives voting in favor. Only 10 members opposed the bill, reported CNN.

Thailand may become the only third nation in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage after Taiwan did the same in 2019 and Nepal in 2023.

We are now writing a new Thai history that will change Thai society forever, Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, a member of the amendment committee told parliament Wednesday as quoted by CNN.

Can these couple adopt children?

Under the law, married same-sex couples can also adopt children. However, the lower house did not adopt the committee's suggestion to use the term "parents" instead of "fathers and mothers", reported BBC.

Reaction

Phisit Sirihirunchai, a 35-year-old openly gay police officer said he was keeping his fingers crossed as he saw legislators debate over the issue in the Parliament.

"I'm glad and already excited that it is really going to happen. I am coming closer and closer to seeing my dreams come true," Phisit Sirihirunchai told BBC.

Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, a gay MP from the opposition Move Forward party who has been campaigning for marriage equality in the past decade, told the British media: "I feel that equality has happened today. It's a historic day for the Thai parliament that stands to fight for the rights of LGBTQI+."

Several Thai political parties have been supporting recognising same-sex unions as part of their campaign before last year's polls.

Prime Minister Sretta Thavisin was also supporting the step since coming to power last year.

The PM posted on X: "It is very gratifying. Today, the House of Representatives has passed a resolution on the Marriage Equality Bill in the third agenda, ready to proceed to the next stage in the Senate."

"The passing of the resolution approved by the House of Representatives today is considered to be the pride of the Thai society that is moving together towards a society of equality and respect for diversity," he said.
Suicide attack in Pakistan leaves five Chinese workers of Dasu project killed. Photo Courtesy: Saleem Iqbal Qadri X page video grab

Condemning the suicide blast in Bisham region which left six people, including five Chinese nationals who were working on the Dasu Hydropower Project, dead, Beijing on Tuesday (March 26, 2024) asked Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the case and hunt down the perpetrators behind the attack.

Apart from five Chinese nationals, the Pakistani driver, who was driving the vehicle transporting staff of the Dasu dam project in Bisham, was also killed after a suicide bomber rammed into it.

Reacting to the blast, a Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson said: "China strongly condemns this terrorist attack. We express deep condolences over the lives lost and extend sincere sympathies to the bereaved families. China asks Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the incident as soon as possible, hunt down the perpetrators and bring them to justice."

"Meanwhile, we ask Pakistan to take effective measures to protect the safety and security of Chinese nationals, institutions and projects in Pakistan. China is working with Pakistan on the follow-up work with all-out effort," the spokesperson said.

The Dasu Dam is the country's largest hydropower project.

China and Pakistan are strategic allies and Islamabad is considered a key link to President Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road infrastructure initiative.

No group has claimed responsibility for the incident so far.

This is not the first time Chinese nationals have been attacked in the country.

In 2021, a bus explosion killed 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals, on their way to the dam.

No group had even claimed responsibility for the incident at that time.

Pakistan has been witnessing a surge in terror attacks and violence since the Taliban snatched power in neighbouring Afghanistan in 2021 following the exit of foreign forces.

The Pakistan Taliban, however, denied its involvement in the attack.

Bisham Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Juma Rehman told Dawn: "It was a suicide attack on the Chinese convoy and an explosive-laden vehicle approaching from Kohistan hit the bus."

He said the bus caught fire after the attack and fell into the ravine.

A huge amount of explosives were used in the attack, the force of which threw the bus into the ravine, he said.

The officer said that police cordoned off the area to collect evidence following the attack.

We have also collected body parts of the suspected suicide bomber from the site, SDPO Rehman said.

Work on dam suspended

Meanwhile, work on the dam has been suspended after the attack as colleagues expressed grief over the death of their colleagues and a Pakistani driver.

The official sources confirmed to Dawn that the Chinese engineers and their Pakistani counterparts did not attend follow-up duty shifts, and night shifts to express sorrow for the killing of their co-workers in an attack earlier in the day.

The multilayer security of the Chinese national executing the Dasu dam, and the residential campus has further been enhanced following the suicidal attack on engineers of one of the flagship energy projects of Sino-Pak friendship, Irfanullah Mehsud, deputy commissioner of Upper Kohistan, told Dawn.

Beijing has invested tens of billions of dollars in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is a part of the flagship Belt and Road project launched in 2015.

It will link China's western Xinjiang region with Pakistans Gwadar port on the Arabian Sea.

The connection between the two regions will be held with a network of roads, railways, pipelines and power plants.

Anti-China sentiments are strong in some parts of Balochistan and among locals of certain sections of the country who believe these projects have not benefitted them.

In its official statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said: "China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners and iron-clad brothers, and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) greatly contributes to the socioeconomic development of Pakistan.No attempt to undermine China-Pakistan cooperation will succeed."

Pakistan PM, President condemn

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad following the attack and posted on X: "I visited Chinese Embassy today to express my condolences at the dastardly act of terrorism in which five Chinese and a Pakistani national were killed. Our sympathies and prayers are with the victims and their families. I strongly condemn this attack against friendship. Our two countries express firm resolve to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice."

I strongly condemn the attack on Chinese citizens in Bisham. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased Chinese citizens, the govt and leadership of China. The enemies of Pakistan will never succeed in harming Pak-China friendship.  AsifAliZardari (@AAliZardari) March 26, 2024

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari said enemies of Pakistan will not succeed in harming 'friendship' between neighbouring nations.

I strongly condemn the attack on Chinese citizens in Bisham. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased Chinese citizens, the govt and leadership of China. The enemies of Pakistan will never succeed in harming Pak-China friendship.  AsifAliZardari (@AAliZardari) March 26, 2024

"I strongly condemn the attack on Chinese citizens in Bisham. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased Chinese citizens, the govt and leadership of China. The enemies of Pakistan will never succeed in harming Pak-China friendship.

2018 attack in Karachi

In 2018, the separatist group Baloch Liberation Army took responsibility for a suicide attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi which left at least four people dead.
Photo Courtesy: X page video grab

Pakistan's Punjab government has decided to beef up the security of Chinese officials in the province following the suicide attack on Karakoram highway in Bisham which left five Chinese nationals dead.

According to the Punjab Home Department, 3355 Chinese officials are currently working across Punjab and over 11,225 security personnel are deployed for their safety, reported ARY News.

The Home Department pledged to provide foolproof security to all Chinese officials across Punjab, the news channel reported.

Condemning the suicide blast in Bisham region which left six people, including five Chinese nationals who were working on the Dasu Hydropower Project, dead, Beijing on Tuesday (March 26, 2024) asked Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the case and hunt down the perpetrators behind the attack.

Apart from five Chinese nationals, the Pakistani driver, who was driving the vehicle transporting staff of the Dasu dam project in Bisham, was also killed after a suicide bomber rammed into it.

Reacting to the blast, a Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson said: "China strongly condemns this terrorist attack. We express deep condolences over the lives lost and extend sincere sympathies to the bereaved families. China asks Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the incident as soon as possible, hunt down the perpetrators and bring them to justice."

"Meanwhile, we ask Pakistan to take effective measures to protect the safety and security of Chinese nationals, institutions and projects in Pakistan. China is working with Pakistan on the follow-up work with all-out effort," the spokesperson said.

The Dasu Dam is the country's largest hydropower project.

China and Pakistan are strategic allies and Islamabad is considered a key link to President Xi Jinping's ambitious Belt and Road infrastructure initiative.

No group has claimed responsibility for the incident so far.
Photo Courtesy: BNM website

According to the press statement, in observance of Black Day against the forced occupation of Balochistan, the Baloch National Movement organized a protest and rally in Amsterdam, Netherlands, reported ANI.

The demonstrators were seen holding placards denouncing the occupation of Balochistan.

Describing the Baloch genocide,a release issued by BNM said as quoted by ANI that March 27, 1948, as a dark day in Baloch history, they highlighted the enduring struggle against Pakistans illegal occupation, calling for global solidarity to address ongoing human rights violations in Balochistan. The speakers underscored the resilience of the Baloch nation in the face of injustice, emphasizing their ongoing resistance against illegal occupation.

Nabeel Khan a protester and a leader of BNM during the protest stated  We may say that 27th is the Balck day of Balochistans genocide, but every day continues remains a black day for the Baloch community since March 27, 1948. Every day we hear, about enforced disappearances, by the Pakistani Army or the intelligence agencies of Pakistan. The torture and torture of people from the Baloch community continues till today. Thousands of Baloch are missing and thousands of Baloch are martyred by the terrorist state of Pakistan.
Photo Courtesy Wikimedia Commons

Sindh United Party activists recently demonstrated outside the press club in Jamshoro town in Pakistan against SHO of Jamshoro police station and the chairman of the town committee.

The partys local leaders accused the SHO of being involved in corruption and demanded his transfer, reported Dawn News.

They said that SHO Mukhtiar Kalhoro was filing fabricated cases against the party workers and conducting raids on their houses at the behest of political figures.

They demanded IGP, DIG of Hyderabad and SSP of Jamshoro immediately place the SHO under suspension and launch an inquiry against him, reported the Pakistani newspaper.

They demanded the immediate release of the SUP workers.
Six people presumed dead after bridge collapse in Baltimore. Photo Courtesy: Videgrab of Baltimore bridge collapse

Six people, who went missing following the collapse of a bridge in the US city of Baltimore after it was hit by a ship, are presumed dead, media reports said.

However, authorities have not named the identities of the six people.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed on Tuesday following the collision.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore told reporters on Tuesday evening as quoted by CNN that the end of the rescue operation was a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day."

According to reports, several vehicles were crossing the bridge when the vessel hit the support.

Officials told BBC that the ship suffered a "power issue" and issued a distress call moments before the crash.

Boats and helicopters were engaged in the rescue and search operation following the crash.

Two others were rescued from the water with the condition of one of the persons being critical.

Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath of the US Coast Guard was quoted as saying by BBC that the remaining missing men were presumed dead based on the temperature of the waters they had fallen in and the length of time they have been under water.

These eight people were reportedly part of a construction crew.

The ship was carrying 22 Indian crew members

The crew members of the ship which hit the 47-year-old Francis Scott Key Bridge were Indian.

The Singapore-flagged container ship "Dali", which is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd, was on its way to Sri Lankan capital Colombo.

Synergy Marine Group said in a statement: "We confirm the safety of all crew members and two pilots aboard 'DALI', with one minor injury reported. The injured crew member has been treated and discharged from hospital. Unfortunately the incident also impacted those who were on the Francis Scott Key Bridge at the time, and based on reports from the Baltimore fire chief and ABC News and other media outlets there have so far been two rescued from the water, including one person with serious injuries."

"As per the United States Coast Guard (USCG), the search and rescue operation has been called off for the night. Six people are presumed dead. We extend our deepest sympathies to everyone affected and their families," the statement said.

Joe Biden says the bridge will be reconstructed

US President Joe Biden reacted to the bridge collapse tragedy and said priority should be given to the rescue and relief operation.

"I've directed my Administration to ensure every federal resource is available to assist search and rescue efforts and response to this terrible incident," Biden posted on X.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge is vital to our economy, and it's vital to our quality of life.



That's why I've directed my team to work with Maryland and move heaven and earth to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge as soon as humanly possible.  President Biden (@POTUS) March 26, 2024

Speaking on the reconstruction of the bridge, he said: " The Francis Scott Key Bridge is vital to our economy, and it's vital to our quality of life." "That's why I've directed my team to work with Maryland and move heaven and earth to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge as soon as humanly possible," he said.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

The US Federal Trade Commission has been investigating social media platform TikTok, which is owned by the China-based company ByteDance, for faulty privacy practices and might decide to sue the platform, alleging that it violates a children's privacy law and misleads its users by saying that China has no access to their personal data, Politico reported, citing three people with direct knowledge of the matter.

The commission is weighing whether to sue or settle with TikTok, the newspaper reported on Tuesday, adding that the agency was in talks with the US Justice Department over the issue.

In the event the lawsuit is filed and granted, the platform could face penalties of tens of billions of dollars, the report added.

On March 13, the US House of Representatives passed legislation that requires TikTok to cut ties with its parent China-based company, ByteDance, within 180 days or face a ban in the US, amid concerns about user privacy and foreign influence ahead of the November presidential election.

TikTok has denied that its application poses a security threat to US users. The United States, European Union, and Canada recently banned their government employees from using TikTok on official electronic devices.

(With UNI inputs)
Representative image/ courtesy: Pixabay

"Anyone who is found to be ineligible for the CERB must repay it. Any CRA employee who inappropriately applied for and received the CERB will be required to repay the amounts if they haven't already done so," CRA spokesperson Sylvie Branch said in a statement.

Following months-long internal investigation of approximately 600 employees, only 133 employees were eligible for CERB, the CRA said.

Under the CERB program, Canadians could receive up to $2,000 a month in financial support if the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada had affected their employment.

It was reported by Canada's auditor general in 2022 that of the estimated $211 billion in COVID-19 aid that the federal government provided, $4.6 billion in overpayments were made to ineligible people.

Although the CRA acknowledged that 600 staff represents less than one percent of its more than 60,000 person workforce, the federal agency said that cases would be referred to law enforcement "if criminality is suspected."

"The actions of some should in no way undermine the honesty and integrity of the thousands of CRA employees who work every day in an exemplary manner to serve Canadians," Branch said.

Last week, CRA said that Festus Bayden, of Brampton, Ont was given a three-year prison sentence for his role in a fraud case involving more than $34 million in false charitable donations.

"These promoters deliberately make false statements to assist their clients in avoiding or evading tax...they obtain a financial benefit from the fees they receive from their clients...the CRA holds both those promoters who facilitate tax evasion, as well as those who use their services to evade taxes, accountable for their actions," the Canada Revenue Agency has said in a statement.

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)
By Isaac White

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noems comments about tribal governments and their members have led to an uproar within the states Native American communities. During events in Mitchell and Winner on March 13, Noem made remarks that have been widely criticized by tribal leaders from the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, Oglala Sioux Tribe, and Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, prompting them to call for an official apology from the governor.

The crux of the controversy stems from Noems accusations directed at tribal council members for allegedly obstructing state efforts to assist Native American communities, failing the youth within their jurisdictions, and benefiting from operations conducted by drug cartels on tribal lands. These allegations, made without presenting concrete evidence, have been deemed by tribal leaders and community members as not only baseless but also harmful, perpetuating negative stereotypes and racial discrimination against Native people in South Dakota.

At the heart of Governor Noems assertions is a profoundly troubling portrayal of Native American families and governance. During the question-and-answer session following the signing of two new education bills, Noem painted a bleak picture of life on reservations, citing Because they live with 80% to 90% unemployment, their kids dont have any hope. They dont have parents who show up and help them. They have a tribal council or a president who focuses on a political agenda more than they care about actually helping somebodys life look better. This narrative not only simplifies the complex socio-economic challenges faced by Native American communities but also unfairly shifts the blame onto the victims of systemic issues.

Further exacerbating tensions, Noem later doubled down on her accusations by alleging that Mexican cartels are operating on tribal lands in South Dakota, engaging in drug trafficking, as well as child and sex trafficking, affecting the rest of the Midwest. She insinuated that tribal leaders were complicit in these activities, a claim that has sparked outrage and demands for evidence to back such serious allegations.

In response to Noems comments, tribal leaders have been swift and vocal in their condemnation. Rosebud Sioux Tribe President Scott Herman explicitly accused Noem of igniting a racially based and discriminatory narrative against Native people. Oglala Sioux Tribe President Frank Star Comes Out refuted the governors allegations by highlighting the ongoing efforts to improve conditions on reservations, such as expanding broadband services and investing in infrastructure. How dare the governor allege that Sioux Tribal Councils do not care about their communities or their children and, worse, that they are involved in nefarious activities, said Star Comes Out, expressing a sentiment of betrayal and anger felt by many in his community.

The dispute sheds light on the longstanding and complex relationship between South Dakotas state government and its Native American tribes. The tribes have long faced significant challenges, including high unemployment rates, inadequate education systems, and insufficient law enforcement resources. The governor cited statistics showing six of the 11 poorest counties in the United States are located in South Dakota, within regions that include parts of the Rosebud, Pine Ridge, Standing Rock, and Cheyenne River Reservations. These areas struggle with high rates of murder, suicide, drug offenses, robbery, rape, aggravated assault, burglary, and missing persons cases, according to tribal officials.

In the face of these challenges, tribal leaders have called for more supportive measures and cooperative law enforcement efforts rather than accusatory rhetoric. For years, the Oglala Sioux Tribe, for example, has been involved in a legal battle with the federal government to secure adequate public safety resources. Similarly, the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe has taken proactive steps by establishing a citizen patrol force, which has led to a significant decrease in calls to dispatch and ambulance calls, demonstrating the communitys commitment to self-help and improvement.

In reporting from Indian Country Today and the Rapid City Journal, Governor Noems spokesperson, Ian Fury, defended the governors statements, challenging tribes to disprove her comments about drug cartels. Yet, this response seems to overlook the broader issue of mutual respect and collaboration that tribal leaders are seeking. In their view, addressing the socio-economic and safety issues plaguing their communities requires a partnership approach, not unilateral criticism or scapegoating.

Education remains a critical area of concern, as evidenced by the data from the South Dakota Board of Education, which shows that a significant proportion of Native students attending public school suffer from chronic absenteeism, and a third do not complete high school. These educational disparities highlight the need for targeted interventions and support to improve Native American student success, an objective Noem herself acknowledged, albeit in a context that some have criticized as blaming the victims.

The controversy surrounding Governor Noems comments underscores a deep divide between the state government and South Dakotas Native American tribes, a divide that is reflective of historical tensions and current challenges. As the calls for an apology grow louder, the situation presents an opportunity for dialogue, understanding, and collaboration between the state and tribal nations. Addressing the underlying issues  ranging from education and unemployment to economic development and public safety  requires a concerted effort grounded in mutual respect and a genuine willingness to listen and work together.

The recent controversy sparked by Governor Noems comments has highlighted the ongoing struggles and disparities faced by Native American communities in South Dakota. It has also brought to the forefront the urgent need for a more collaborative and respectful approach to addressing these challenges not only in South Dakota but across the U.S. Tribal leaders have made it clear that improving conditions on Tribal Territories goes beyond addressing symptoms; it requires tackling the root causes of these issues, including systemic discrimination, lack of adequate resources, and the need for meaningful economic opportunities.
This week, Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) students showed off their carpentry and woodworking skills at the Eastern Ontario SKLZ competition, a continuation of the SKLZ competition held last month in Cornwall.

The event, held March 20 at the Carpenters Union 93 in Kanata, was in collaboration with the UCDSB, Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario and UBC Built, presented by DeWalt. Approximately 110 participants from both school boards across the region showcased their skills in four different woodworking trades. With representation from 11 out of 22 secondary schools, UCDSB had about 49 students compete at the event.

Aydon Whitman and Andrew Harper, Grade 12 students at Rideau District High School competed in the Team of Two Carpentry event and were tasked with building a picnic bench with a round top. For both students, this was their first time and said their goal for the day was to simply complete the project.

Outside of having a familiarity with power tools, both students said having a positive mindset, patience and confidence were important.

If you mess up, you mess up. You learn from it, says Harper. Whitman and Harper both said they would encourage any student considering competing in a similar event to do it. New experiences are good, says Whitman. Take every opportunity youre given.

Grade 12 students Eleni Fourkiotis and Erin Libbey from St. Lawrence Secondary also participated in the Team of Two Carpentry. With Fourkiotis wanting to be a carpenter and Libbey planning to pursue a career in civil engineering, the students described the event as new and improved. They liked the spacious location and quality materials and tools. The duo won bronze at the SKLZ event last year.

Two students from Glengarry District High School and Almonte District High School will be moving on to the qualifying Skills Ontario competition in Kingston on April 13. One individual from Tagwi Secondary School and two teams from North Grenville District High School and Tagwi SS are moving on to the Skills Ontario competition in Toronto this May.

UCDSB results from the competition are as follows:

Individual Carpentry

Gold  Cohen Williams from Glengarry District High School (Advancing to Provincial Qualifier).

Silver  Craig Villeneuve from Almonte District High School (Advancing to Provincial Qualifier).

Bronze  Cody Devries from St. Lawrence Secondary School.

Cabinet making

Gold  Emerson Beckstead from Tagwi Secondary School (Advancing to Skills Ontario)

Silver  Alexis Smith from Glengarry District High School.

Bronze  Twyla Lalonde from Rockland District High School.

Team of Two Carpentry

Silver  Sam Kirk and Nathan Rogers from North Grenville District High School (Advancing to Skills Ontario).

Home and Team Building

Gold  Tagwi Secondary School  Josh Sauve, Nevan Lalonde, Ian Casselman and Kash Anderson (Advancing to Skills Ontario).

Silver  Rockland District High School - Alex Stocker, Sean Kinney and Michael Luloff.
The legal fight continues in a federal appeals court over Michigan efforts to shut down the controversial Line 5

By Mary Annette Pember. ICT.

CINCINNATI, Ohio  They came to protect the water.

Nearly 200 people traveled from Michigan to Cincinnati on Thursday, March 21, to support the state of Michigans efforts to stay out of federal court with its legal case calling for a partial shutdown of Enbridge Line 5.

Several citizens and leaders of Michigan tribes were among those who joined the rally at Fountain Square, a major public space in downtown Cincinnati near the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

The crowd waved banners and signs calling for the shutdown of the Line 5 pipeline, with some calling for people and planet over profits.

Inside the courthouse, Michigan officials asked the federal appeals court to allow the lawsuit filed by the state attorney generals office to remain in state court  a move supported by a coalition led by the Bay Mills Indian Community of more than 60 tribes from the Great Lakes region and beyond.

Im from the Bear Clan. My job is to protect the forest and make sure our water is safe, Andrea Pierce told the crowd Thursday. Pierce, of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, is part of the Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, who filed the legal action to shut down the pipeline, addressed the crowd during the rally at Fountain Square on why she wants to keep the issue in state court.

This is a Michigan case brought under Michigan law by Michigans chief law enforcement officer on behalf of the people of Michigan on behalf of our Great Lakes and it belongs in a Michigan court, she told the cheering crowd.

The Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa in Wisconsin, which is litigating to keep Line 5 off of reservation lands, also signed onto the brief. All 12 of Michigans federally recognized tribes passed resolutions calling to decommission Line 5.

Public nuisance

Line 5, constructed in 1953, runs 645 miles from Superior, Wisconsin, east through Michigans Upper Peninsula and under the Straits of Mackinac before it terminates in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada.

In the original 2019 lawsuit filed in Michigan circuit court, Nessel sought a shutdown of four miles of Line 5 pipeline that ran under the Straits of Mackinac. The lawsuit contends that the pipeline is a public nuisance and that allowing Enbridge to continue operating it is a violation of the public trust doctrine and the Michigan Environmental Protection Act.

The Straits of Mackinac link Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, and constitute one of the most ecologically sensitive areas in the world, according to Oil and Water Dont Mix, an advocacy organization based in Michigan.

Nessel won a restraining order from a state judge in June 2020, but Enbridge successfully moved the case into federal court in December 2021.

Nessel asked U.S. Circuit Judge Janet Neff to shift the case back into state court, but Neff refused, prompting Nessel to appeal to the Sixth Circuit appeals court.

Enbridge filed a separate federal lawsuit in 2020 arguing the states attempt to shut down the pipeline interferes with federal regulation of pipeline safety, and could interfere with interstate and international trading of petroleum, driving up oil prices. That case is still pending in Neffs court.

Enbridge has insisted the section of pipeline that runs beneath the Mackinac Straits is in good condition and could operate indefinitely. Enbridge has proposed encasing the pipes in a protective tunnel.

Assistant Attorney General Daniel Bock told the three-judge panel of the court in Cincinnati Thursday that the challenge to Enbridges Line 5 deals with the public trust doctrine, a legal concept in which natural resources belong to the public. He said that concept is rooted in state law.

Bock went on to assert that Enbridge, the Canadian company that owns the pipeline, missed its deadline to shift the case from state to federal court.

Enbridge attorney Alice Loughran countered that the case should remain in federal court because it affects international trade. She said the company didnt have to comply with the standard 30-day deadline for requesting removal to federal court because it lacked enough information to formulate the request.

In an email sent to ICT, Enbridge spokesperson Ryan Duffy accused Nessel of forum-shopping in an effort to secure a favorable outcome.

We are confident that ultimately the Sixth Circuit Court will agree with the lower courts decisions from August 2022 and November 2021 that this disputewhich has generated a US foreign policy controversyproperly belongs in federal court, Duffy wrote.

Protests continue

The protesters outside the courthouse were among thousands in recent years to protest the pipeline in Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota and even in Canada.

Near and far, Anishinaabe people have united to protect the Great Lakes, said Whitney Gravelle, president of the Bay Mills Indian Community, in a statement released Thursday to Earthjustice, a nonprofit environmental law organization.

We stand behind Attorney General Nessel because we know that shutting down Line 5 is the only way to protect everyone who depends on the land, water, and natural resources within the Great Lakes, Gravelle said, including Anishinaabe people exercising our treaty rights.

This article contains material from The Associated Press.
Konidela Ram Charan Teja, better known as Ram Charan, is a celebrated actor, producer, and entrepreneur, primarily known for his significant contributions to Telugu cinema.
Goyal's parents were both teachers while he was growing up. While his father's name is known as Harbans Lal Goyal, there is limited information available about his mother
In the world of reality TV, specially a controversial show like Bigg Boss, drama often extends beyond the screens. A surprising number of contestants from the popular reality show have found themselves on the wrong side of the law. From drug-related charges to allegations of extortion and even sedition, here is a list of Bigg Boss contestants who have been jailed.



Bigg Boss Contestants Who Went To Jail

1. Elvish Yadav

X

Bigg Boss OTT 2 winner Elvish Yadav went to jail in snake venom drug case. He is currently out on bail.



2. Munawar Faruqui

Munawar Faruqui was recently detailed after a raid at Hookah bar in Mumbai. Earlier, the Bigg Boss 17 winner spent 37 days in jail for allegedly hurting religious sentiments.



3. Armaan Kohli

Armaan Kohli, who had participated in Bigg Boss season 7 in 2013 was arrested in 2022 after cocaine was allegedly seized from his house in Andheri.



4. Ajaz Khan

Ajaz Khan was arrested by the NCB at Mumbai airport in a drug case in 2021. He spent two years and two months in jail after being caught with 31 tablets of Alprazolam, having total weight of 4.5 grams. He was charged with illicit trafficking and purchase of drug.



5. KRK

X

Actor Kamaal Rashid Khan, popularly known as KRK, who participated in Bigg Boss season 3 went to jail in 2022 after being arrested by Versova Police for allegedly demanding sexual favours from an actress and holding the complainant's hand in January 2019. In Dec 2023, he was arrested over FIR against his controversial social media posts back in 2020.



6. Jigna Vora

Journalist Jigna Vora, who participated in Bigg Boss 17, was arrested on suspicion of plotting with gangster Chhota Rajan in the murder of crime reporter J Dey in 2011.



7. Swami Om

Self-proclaimed godman who particpated in Bigg Boss 10 went to jail for his alleged involvement in a brawl in 2008.

8. Monica Bedi

X

Monica Bedi spent five years in jail after being arrested in Lisbon in 2002. The Bigg Boss season 2 contestant was found travelling with a fake passport along with her boyfriend and gangster Abu Salem.

9. Raja Chaudhary

Bhojpuri actor Raja Chaudhary who is often in news because of his temper issues went to jail for creating ruckus outside a hospital at Jawahar Lal Nehru road in Jaipur. He has been arrested before for unruly behaviour. The ex-husband of actress Shweta Tiwari had participated in Bigg Boss season 2.

10. Zubair Khan

One of the most controversial contestants of the show, Bigg Boss 11 participant Zubair Khan went to jail on charges of extortion. He was reportedly a part of the gang which tried to extort Rs 1 crore from a Mumbai businesswoman in the name of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim.

11. Rahul Mahajan

X

Rahul Mahajan, son of the late BJP leader Pramod Mahajan who participated in Bigg Boss season 2, was arrested Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act on the charge of sale, purchase and consumption of a drug.

12. Devender Singh, aka Bunty Chor

The man who inspired a movie called Oye Lucky, Lucky Oye, Devender Singh aka Bunty Chor has been arrested several times and gained notoriety in India for his involvement in several high-profile thefts and burglaries.

13. Aseem Trivedi

Aseem Trivedi, an Indian political cartoonist and activist, was arrested in 2012 on charges of sedition, among other offenses. His arrest stemmed from his participation in the India Against Corruption movement and his cartoons, which criticized corruption in the Indian government. The specific cartoons that led to his arrest were deemed offensive to national symbols and institutions. Aseem participated in Bigg Boss 6 in 2012.



Also Read: Munawar Faruqui Detained: Elvish Yadav Takes A Dig At The Comedian Over Hookah Bar Raid

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
Microsoft has appointed Indian Institutes of Technology, Madras (IIT Madras) alumnus Pavan Davuluri as the head of Windows and Surface teams following their merger.

According to Windows Central, the decision comes after a brief separation, during which Windows briefly fell under Microsoft's new AI organisation.

Pavan Davuluri

The reunion of Windows and Surface teams marks a return to a familiar structure within Microsoft's Engineering and Devices organisation, headed by Rajesh Jha.

Who is Pavan Davuluri

Davuluri who was previously overseeing Microsoft's hardware endeavours, will now take the helm of Windows engineering as well.

After graduating from IIT Madras, Davuluri went to the University of Maryland.

He has been with Microsoft for 23 years and has worked across PC and Xbox hardware, Surface, Windows and silicon, has led product teams and dabbled in software and hardware playbooks.

Pavan Davuluri

Over the past year, Davuluri has been instrumental in driving Microsoft's efforts to optimize Windows for Arm-based devices.

Reshuffle in Microsoft

The reshuffle follows the departure of ex-Windows and Surface chief Panos Panay last September, whose role was effectively split between Davuluri and Mikhail Parakhin.

Parakhin took charge of Windows, alongside his existing responsibilities as CEO of Web and Advertising at Microsoft, overseeing products such as Bing, Edge, and Copilot.

Other changes within Microsoft

However, recent developments within Microsoft, including the appointment of DeepMind co-founder Mustafa Suleyman as CEO of a new AI division, prompted a re-evaluation of team structures.

AP

With Parakhin's team absorbed into the new AI division, he has announced his intention to explore other roles, likely outside the company.

As a result, Windows is now realigned under Rajesh Jha's leadership, ensuring that development is overseen by the same individual who guides Surface development.

This move is welcomed by Windows enthusiasts, as it promises increased collaboration and cohesion between Microsoft's hardware and software endeavours.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
Weekend Banking: The Government of India has urged all bank branches responsible for managing government receipts and payments to operate on March 31. This is to ensure the thorough management of all fiscal transactions related to the fiscal year 20232024. Consequently, only agency banks will be operational on this Sunday, while regular bank branches will remain closed for transactions. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a notification directing banks to publicize the availability of banking services on this day.

The Government of India has made a request to keep all branches of the banks dealing with Government receipts and payments open for transactions on March 31, 2024 (Sunday) so as to account for all the Government transactions relating to receipts and payments in the FY2023-24 itself, the RBI said in a statement.

What are the reasons for the weekend bank open?

The closure of banks on a Sunday, particularly when it coincides with the end of the financial year, presents a challenge for the completion of government accounts. The RBI's decision is intended to mitigate any potential delays in processing vital financial transactions, thereby facilitating a seamless transition into the new financial year. This measure is aimed at upholding fiscal discipline and preventing the accumulation of transactional backlogs.

What Is An Agency Bank?

"A network consisting of the Government Banking Divisions of RBI and branches of agency banks appointed under Section 45 of the RBI Act carries out government transactions. Currently, all public sector banks and selected private sector banks act as agents for the RBI. Only designated branches of agency banks are authorized to conduct government banking business," as stated on the RBI's website.

Agency banks are those authorized to handle government receipts and payments. According to data published on the RBI website on December 7, 2023, there are a total of 33 agency banks, including 12 state banks and 20 private sector banks. Additionally, DBS Bank India Limited is the sole foreign bank included in this arrangement.

Check the full list of agency banks in the country:

Full list of agency banks in the country Bank of Baroda Punjab National Bank Bank of India State Bank of India Bank of Maharashtra UCO Bank Canara Bank Union Bank of India Central Bank of India Axis Bank Ltd. Indian Bank City Union Bank Ltd. Indian Overseas Bank DCB Bank Ltd HDFC Bank Ltd. ICICI Bank Ltd. IDBI Bank Ltd. IDFC FIRST Bank Ltd Punjab and Sind Bank Federal Bank Ltd. IndusInd Bank Ltd Jammu and Kashmir Bank Ltd. Karnataka Bank Ltd. Karur Vysya Bank Ltd. Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. RBL Bank Ltd South Indian Bank Ltd. Yes Bank Ltd. Dhanlaxmi Bank Ltd. Bandhan Bank Ltd. CSB Bank Ltd. Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Ltd DBS Bank India Limited -

Foreign Banks

DBS Bank India Limited, a scheduled foreign bank authorized by the RBI to conduct banking operations in India through the Wholly Owned Subsidiary (WOS) mode.

Previously, the Income Tax department announced the cancellation of the long weekend initially scheduled from March 29 to March 31, 2024. This decision was made due to pending tax-related tasks that require attention. The original schedule included Good Friday on March 29, a public holiday, followed by Saturday, March 30, and Sunday, March 31.

"In order to facilitate the completion of pending departmental work, all Income Tax Offices throughout India will remain open on March 29, 30, and 31, 2024," stated the Income Tax department in an order dated March 31, 2024.

For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here


A Kano State High Court, on Tuesday, pronounced a death sentence by hanging on Chinese national, identified as Frank Geng-Quangrong, 47, who stabbed his Nigerian girlfriend, Ummukulsum Sani, 22, to death.

It was gathered that Geng-Quangrong, was convicted on one count charge bordering on culpable homicide.

Justice Sanusi Ado-Maaji, in his judgement, upheld that the prosecution had proven its case beyond any reasonable doubt, adding that: The defendants testimony is inconsistent I hereby find him guilty.

Meanwhile, the prosecution counsel, the Attorney-General of Kano State, Haruna Dederi, informed the court that the convict committed the offence on September 16, 2022 at Janbulo Quarters Kano.

READ MORE: Nigerian Student Reportedly Killed By Chinese Nationals In Philippines

According to him, on the same date at about 9pm, the convict stabbed the deceased with a knife in her house located at Janbulo Quarters, Kano for undisclosed reason.

He said: The victim was promptly rushed to the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano, where she was confirmed dead on arrival by a medical doctor.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The offence, according to the prosecutor, contravenes the provision of Section 221(b) of the Penal Code.

The defence counsel, Muhummad Danazumi, presented the defendant to defend himself and one other witness, who tendered five exhibits.

Danazumi urged the court to recommend the defendant for a prerogative of mercy under Section 313 of ACJL.

In his testimony, the accused, Frank said, I didnt kill Ummulkhulsum intentionally but stabbed her in self-defence after she grabbed my testacles.




The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration has declared Friday, March 29 and Monday, 1st of April, as public holidays.

This is to mark the celebrations of 2024 Good Friday and Easter Monday respectively.

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government via a Wednesday statement signed by the Ministrys Permanent Secretary, Aishetu Gogo Ndayako.

The Minister urged Christians and all Nigerians in general to emulate the sacrifice and love displayed by Jesus Christ in dying for the redemption of man.

He said, Easter, beyond religious significance, promotes values of love, forgiveness and compassion which are essential for social cohesion and harmony.

READ ALSO: Julius Abure Re-Elected As LP National Chairman Despite Opposition By NLC

Tunji-Ojo however encouraged Christians to imbibe these virtues as they are capable of impacting positively on the socio-economic development in Nigeria by fostering unity, reducing conflicts and encouraging cooperation among Nigerians.

He further urged Nigerians to show acts of charity and generosity to help alleviate the material conditions of the less privileged amongst them.

According to him, it is in tandem with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.

While wishing Christians at home and abroad a happy and blissful Easter celebration, the Minister also called on Nigerians to join hands with the Tinubu-led government in its determination to bring sustainable development and usher in prosperity for all.

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has directed the Chairmen of the 36 State chapters and the Federal Capital Territory to root out members involved in anti-party activities.

The perpetrators of the act, the PDP said, must be identified and sanctioned.

Umar Bature, PDPs National Organising Secretary, stated this during a meeting of the National Working Committee with State Chairmen in Abuja on Tuesday,

Following the conduct of the 2023 elections many members requested sanctions against certain members due to their alleged involvement in anti-party activities.

However, speaking on the issue on Tuesday, after 11 months, Bature said, After the elections, we expected the state chapters to give us their reports, that is the post-2023 election reports. A lot of the states have not submitted their reports and we need those reports to be compiled for the next NEC meeting.

READ ALSO: Okuama: I Deserve To Be Respected  Edwin Clark Condemns Invasion Of His Home By Soldiers Searching For Suspect

A lot of agitations are coming from party members, suspend this, suspend that, you are the ones that are in charge of those states. You are to tell us who was involved in anti-party activities and who did not; and based on that, the NEC will take a decision. Write to us and tell us what transpired, no matter what happened.

He added that the meeting was to review the tenure of 26 State Chairmen, whose tenures had expired.

We are here to review the tenure of about 26 state chairmen, in terms of ward, local government and state. If you recall most of the current executives in the states were elected four years ago, where congresses were conducted on a staggered basis due to the COVID-19 issues.

We have about four or five states that their tenures have expired from the ward to the state, that is Edo, Bayelsa, Gombe and Rivers states. There are others that are staggered. So, in order not to create a vacuum or go into a crisis that is why we have called this meeting.

Also, we have issues and a crisis in these states; so, we decided to call you for this meeting to interact with you on the way forward pending when the NEC will sit and decide on all these, Bature added.
Kaduna-based controversial Islamic cleric, Ahmad Gumi, has disclosed that his interaction with security agencies who invited him over his comment on activities of bandits in the country was productive.

Recall that Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and Orientation, disclosed that the Federal Government had invited Gumi over some of his remarks.

The minister had said Gumi was not above the law and that he would be reprimanded if security agencies deemed his comments reckless.

READ ALSO: Terrorism Financing: Probe Those Who Have Close Ties With Bandits  Kukah To FG

Reacting on Tuesday, the cleric, via social media, described his meeting with security agents as a productive interaction on how to curb banditry.

Gumi said only one person is above the law: the innocent.

Last night I got many frantic calls from well-wishers and journalists about a news item that I was interviewed by security. There is absolutely no cause for alarm, he wrote.

Yes, we had a productive interaction on how to curb banditry as we are all trying  each in his own sphere  to tackle the monster bedevilling the nation. There was no animosity but courtesy and full of respect.

We all need as a nation to unite and work in synergy to achieve an everlasting peace.
A former Minister of Communication, Adebayo Shittu has urged the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to promise bandits a promising future by negotiating with them.

Shittu revealed that most of the unknown gunmen are able-bodied men whom the Federal Government should retain.

The ex minister under former president, Muhammadu Buhari led government made this known on Channels Televisions Politics Today programme on Tuesday.

He said: If I am in position, it is not too late to use non-kinetic measures in negotiating with bandits, giving them a promising future.

Let us retain them. Many of them are very intelligent, many of them are able-bodied.

READ MORE: Use Of Force Wont Tackle Insecurity, Kidnappers Getting More Vicious  Gumi

The more skills you are able to give to the largest number of them, the less the propensity for them to go back (to crime) if they are assured that a promising future awaits them after going through the deradicalisation processes and skills training.

At the end of the day, the amount of money we are spending on the Armed Forces to confront these people, it looks like their number is endless because in the bush we have have thousands of groups, particularly in the North-West and North-East.

So, instead of wasting too much money on acquiring arms and ammunition, let us rearrange, let us find a way, after every war, there must still be coming to the round table, negotiate.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that individuals involved in despicable crimes such as kidnapping must be treated as terrorists.

Tinubu led this out on Tuesday at a Ramadan dinner with members of the Federal judiciary led by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.

The President disclosed that those who resorted to kidnapping children were cowards, incapable of confronting the might of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He said: We must treat kidnappers as terrorists. They are cowardly. They have been degraded.

READ MORE: Tinubu To Celebrate 72nd Birthday Low-key Amid Insecurity, Economic Challenges Facing Nigeria

They look for soft targets. They go to schools and kidnap children and cause disaffection.

We must treat them equally as terrorists in order to get rid of them, and I promise you we will get rid of them.

INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the case of kidnapping has continues, mostly in northern part of the country.
Veteran Nigeria comic actor, Atunyota Akpobome, popularly known as Ali Baba, has condemned the recent killing of 17 officers of the Nigerian Army in Delta, describing it as highly abominable.

The comedian made this known in an interview with newsmen in Lagos, on Monday, adding that the gruesome murder of the soldiers smacked of eroding societal values.

According to him, the murder of soldiers showed that the nation is suffering from poor moral education in the country.

He said: Killing another human being is bad, the killing of anybody that works for an institution, especially an institution like the army that protects the people, is worse.

READ MORE: Six Officers Killed, Others Missing As Gunmen Ambush Police In Delta

Overseas, when you are travelling, they (airport authorities) board the military personnel first as well as retired officers.

What it means is that we need to begin to know our values totally in the country. This is unfortunate.

You do not respect the military that protects you, you went ahead to then kill them, whatever the reason you have, it is a huge crime.

You dont kill a soldier man, you dont even push him, slap him or resist an arrest. It is a crime.

INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that on March 14, at least 17 senior military officers and soldiers of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, deployed to quell clashes between Okuoma and Okoloba communities in Delta, were ambushed and killed in Okuama Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state.
Edwin Clark, convener of Pan Niger Delta Forum, on Tuesday, faulted the manner at which military personnel searching for killers of 17 soldiers raided his house in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

Recall that the military had vowed to hunt down the killers of the soldiers killed by youths on March 14 while on a peacekeeping mission in Okuama.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the elder statesman revealed that the army later apologised to him.

His words: At about 6 pm on Saturday, 23rd March 2024, I got a telephone call from someone who identified himself as the commanding officer of the Nigerian Army division in Port Harcourt.

He said that a tracker of the Nigerian Army had tracked one Mr. Vote, the community chairman of Okuoma community whom the army was looking for in respect of the killings of the 17 men of the Nigerian Army, to a house in Ughelli and that the military men had broken into the house, ransacked it before they were informed that the house belongs to me, that he was very sorry and apologising to me on behalf of the army.

In my usual way and as a leader who is expected to condone as much as possible, I accepted his apology wholeheartedly but told him that I do not own a house in Ughelli, that the house he is referring to could be my fathers.

I went on to sympathise with the Nigerian Army over the gruesome murder of the soldier, an action I had condemned severally, the moment I heard of it in the news.

I assured him that we would all work within our powers to avail the security agencies with any available information that would unravel the whole thing and bring the perpetrators to book. We ended the discussion on a cordial note.

It was not long after that, I was inundated with calls from my home, Kiagbodo, telling me how the army had invaded my country home by land and by air. They came in about 5 trucks loaded with armed soldiers numbering between 30 and 40.

READ ALSO: Court Sentences Chinese Man To Death For Killing Nigerian Girlfriend

They used their legs to break open all the doors in the compound, including the security door to my sitting room which was locked because I reside in Abuja. At the same time, flying their drone within the premises.

Some of them went to the buildings behind the main house and also broke all the doors that were locked. They marched out my staff living in those buildings, including lecturers at the university, and made them sit on bare ground.

Clark added that the soldiers also raided the home of his late brother, Akporode Blessing Clark, who was a former Nigerian permanent representative to the United Nations (UN).

They brought out his son almost naked. The young man was taking a bath when they stormed the house, the elder statesman said.

All their phones were seized. The people had to identify themselves and tell them whose house it was before they asked for my telephone number, which they said they would pass to their oga before they all departed.

One would have expected that at this juncture, a call could have been put to the Governor of Delta State to inform him of what happened.

I immediately called back the commanding officer to tell him of the actions of his men. And he said he was aware and that was why he called to apologise.

Before continuing, let me play the devils advocate by stating that the army may not know that the house they went to in Kiagbodo is my country home.

Clark cautioned military authority against disrespectful and unlawful operations.

I deserve to be respected, left to live in peace, safety and tranquillity. I have very high regard for the Nigerian Army, he said.
Governor Olayemi Cardoso of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), says it is not in the jurisdiction of the apex bank to regulate or prosecute actors in the cryptocurrency world.

He disclosed this at a news conference on Tuesday after the Monetary Policy Committees (MPC) 294th meeting in Abuja.

Recall that in February, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, accused cryptocurrency trading platforms of manipulating the value of the naira in the foreign exchange market.

Since then, the Federal Government launched a clampdown on Binance, a cryptocurrency exchange platform.

According to Cardoso, the regulation of cryptocurrency platforms is the duty of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Nigeria, and the National Security Advisers office and not that of the CBN.

READ ALSO: NSA Shouldve Transferred Binance Executives To EFCC  Ex-DSS Director

His words: A month ago, we actually did have collaboration with law enforcement agencies, EFCC, the SEC and other regulatory bodies as well. And I think what came out of that, quite frankly, is work in progress, but also very positive.

Weve been sharing information together. However, in this particular case the responsibility for regulating cryptocurrency is not our role.

It is not ours. It is strictly that of the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC). That is not our responsibility.

Of course, the issue of people being held in custody, again strictly speaking is the Office of the National Security Adviser.

That is not within the purview of the central bank. Unfortunately, there is nothing to report to you or tell you. We just want to clarify that is really the relationship the central bank has on this matter.
Some yet to be identified gunmen, suspected to be Fulani headers have reportedly Kidnapped an Islamic cleric, Chief Imam of Iyara in Ijumu Local Government Area, Kogi State, Sheikh Quasim Musa.

It was gathered that the cleric was kidnapped on Monday night outside his house in Ilukpa, Iyara headquarters of the Ijumu Local Government Area of the state.

The gunmen reportedly stormed the community and started shooting sporadically before taking the victim to an unknown destination.

A family source who spoke to Daily Post under the condition of anonymity said that they are yet to get any information from the kidnappers and urged Muslim faithful to pray for the release of the cleric.

The source said: Dear compatriot sons and daughters of Iyara land, it is sad to announce to you all that our community had its own share of the current insecurity bedevilling the nation on Monday 25th, March 2024.

READ MORE: Two Feared Dead, 70 Houses Razed In Kogi Communal Clash

Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen stormed the House of the Chief Imam of Iyara land, Sheikh Quasim Musa, and kidnapped him after shooting sporadically.

The religious leader was abducted at about 2200hrs after he came back from mosque and slept outside his house in Ilukpa, Iyara headquarters of Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

This dastardly act is cowardice and unfortunate, happening to a Religious Leader in this Holy month of Ramadan. We use this medium to call on relevant authorities to ensure that he is released.

Youre hereby requested to commence fervent prayers as for efforts being made to rescue him from kidnappers den to yield positive results in no distant time. Once again, you are all requested to pray for his safe return.
Bishop Matthew Kukah of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, has tasked the Nigeria-led Government to investigate individuals with claims of having close ties with bandits.

The cleric who raised questions about the Federal Governments failure to investigate individuals claiming close ties with bandits, pointed this out in an interview on Channels Television.

His words: It is clear that the Federal Government at the highest level knows what is going on, at least the intelligence community has an idea.

There are key Nigerians who are saying openly that they know more than they think the rest of us know, and I think that it is the business of the Federal Government to find out those who claim to know where the bandits are, those who are collaborating with the bandits.

Meanwhile, Tukur Mamu, detained publisher of Kaduna-based Desert Herald Newspaper, has written to the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, demanding the retraction of his profiling and designation as a Terrorist and Terrorism Financier.

This was contained in a letter dated March 25, 2024, written on Mamus behalf by his lawyer, J.J. Usman.

A seven-day ultimatum, according to the letter, was given for the retraction of the publication to prevent litigation against the Federal Government.

Parts of the letter, which was also copied the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), read; We are Counsel to MR. TUKUR MOHAMMED MAMU (hereinafter referred to as Our Client) on whose firm and absolute instruction we relate with you on the above subject matter.

Recall that Our Client was arraigned by the Federal Government of Nigeria, particularly before the Federal High Court, Abuja Division in CHARGE NO: FHC/ABJ/CR/96/2023 between THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA V, TUKUR MOHAMMED MAMU.

In furtherance to this, it is remarkable to note that your office is currently prosecuting Our Client on allegations bothering on terrorism,

Attached herewith is a certified true copy of the said Charge marked as ANNEXURE A for ease of reference.

It is lamentable to observe that on 19/03/2024: while the case against Our Client is still pending, the social media was saturated by a publication allegedly emanating from and authorized by your good office.

READ ALSO: How Terrorist Groups Are Funded  NFIU Reveals

However, the said publication was specifically made by the Nigerian Sanctions Committee wherein Our Client was profiled and designated as a Terrorist (TERRORIST FINANCIER).

As at the time of this missive, no Court of competent jurisdiction in Nigeria have designated Our Client as such.

Attached herewith is a copy of the publication downloaded from the online marked as ANNEXURE B for ease of reference.

It is a common knowledge that the administration of criminal justice system in Nigeria, is not only antithetic to, but forbids media trial in whatever guise.

We vehemently condemn the actions of the Nigerian Sanctions Committee same being a violation the rule of natural justice and prejudicial to Our Client who is undergoing trial, and whose trial is still pending in SUIT FHCIABJ/CR/96/2023.

It is sardonic and very disheartening that this publication is coming from the Nigerian Sanctions Committee; which ordinarily should be fueling the front burner in championing the course for the sustenance of the Rule of Law in Nigeria. Albeit, the Nigerian Sanctions Committee lacks the statutory mandate to pronounce on, and to designate Mr. Tukur Mohammed Mamu as a Terrorist Financier; even when it is a notorious fact that Mr. Tukur Mohammed Mamu is undergoing trial. It is so, particularly that the court has not made any pronouncement detailing him to be one.

It is our firm position that the action of the Nigerian Sanctions Committee is not just tantamount to the usurpation of the Courts power provided under Section 6 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended); but is a mockery of the Nigerian judicial system.

We have no doubt about the deliberate ploy to soil the name and the hard earned reputation of Our Client in whose favour the constitutional right to the presumption of innocence inures.

By the publication above referred, it becomes crystal clear that the Federal Government of Nigeria is the Complainant against Our Client; the prosecutor of our Client and now putting itself in a head-on collision with judicial power of the court by assuming adjudicatory position thereon. Adjuging Our Client as a Terrorist has eroded all the jurisprudential tenets of rules of natural justice.

On the basis of the aforesaid, we demand in very clear and unequivocal terms,: the immediate Retraction of the said Publication within 7 days from the receipt of this letter dated this 25th March, 2024.

Failure to comply with Our Clients demand, we will have no hesitation in seeking redress in the Court of law for the ventilation of Our Clients grievances.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday, conferred National Honours on the 17 military personnel who were murdered in Delta State earlier this month.

He also disclosed that the Federal Government has approved scholarships to all the children of the deceased up to the University level.

Tinubu announced this at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja, where the deceased officers were buried.

As he mentioned the names of the deceased individually, he said, The four gallant Officers have been accorded the Award of Member of the Order of Niger (MON). The thirteen courageous soldiers who also lost their lives have been Awarded the Officer of the Federal Republic Medal.

I want to make it clear, once more, that those who committed this heinous crime will not go unpunished. We will find them and our departed heroes will get justice.

The elders and chiefs of Okuama also have a duty to help the military in fishing out the gunmen who committed the barbaric crime against our men.

I wish to also commend our Armed Forces for their restraint in choosing not to carry out any reprisal attacks in Okuama or its neighbouring communities. We must all ensure that the innocent people of Okuama are not made to bear the punishment of the guilty and wicked among them.

He described the deceased personnel as patriots, brave and noble men who gave their lives to defend and protect Nigeria against internal and external threats, saying their sacrifice will be remembered and honoured for generations to come.

Before the dastardly attack, Lt. Colonel Ali, as the Chief of Army Staff briefed me, enjoyed great operational exploits; fighting terrorists and insurgents in the North East and North West before his deployment to the Niger Delta.

Ali kept faith with his military calling till the end. On behalf of a grateful nation, we honour the sacrifice of Ali and the other gallant patriots who died that day. They will forever be remembered as heroes who answered the call of duty and paid the ultimate price.

READ ALSO: Slain Delta Soldiers Will Receive National Honours, Befitting Burials  Tinubu

Each man now belongs to the hallowed list of servicemen and women who defended our country and protected their fellow Nigerians not minding the risk to their own lives.

I commiserate with the families of our fallen heroes and the entire Armed Forces. I share in the pain and grief you carry today. It is my prayer that God will comfort all who are bereaved as a result of this tragedy.

It is worth restating the debt of gratitude we owe these valiant soldiers and their families.

As Commander-In-Chief, I do not take the contributions of members of our Armed Forces for granted. I recognise your valour and bravery. I honour your unflinching commitment to making our country safe from criminals, bandits, kidnappers and insurrectionists.

While we continue to grieve for the courageous men we lost that day, let us also, on this solemn occasion, be reminded of the unfinished business of working for peace and harmony in our communities, he said.

The military, he encouraged, should not feel downcast over the terrible incident, saying Nigeria cherishes their contribution.

To the entire armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I have a message for you: Do not let the death of your compatriots discourage you. There is no higher honour than the vocation you have chosen to pursue. We cherish you. We cherish your labour of love. We salute your daily sacrifice in protecting your fellow citizens from danger. We acknowledge your sacrifices to defend our nation.

Within our continent, our sub-region and across the world, the Nigerian Military has remained a force for good, embodying a great example and keeping our democracy safe. It is now our duty to protect the families of our departed heroes.

The Federal Government will provide a house in any part of our country to each of the families of the four officers and 13 soldiers. The Federal Government has also approved scholarships to all the children of the deceased up to the University level. The Military must, within the next ninety days, ensure that all the benefits of the departed are paid to their families. May the families of the departed and all their loved ones find the strength to bear the pain of this loss, he added.


Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, on Tuesday, decried spate of banditry experienced in the State.

According to him, Zamfara is now the center of bandits in the whole of Northern Nigeria and may consume the North if not urgently addressed.

He disclosed this to State House correspondents in Abuja after a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

His words: There have been several attacks in some of the local government communities. I feel as a responsible governor, I should make this known to Mr. President, who is pleased with the discussion we had and we are looking for more military personnel as well as the equipment for them to be able to function effectively and take care of the security situation.

Zamfara has become the centre of banditry as we speak today, and if nothing is done in Zamfara state, I dont think we will be able to solve the situation in the entire northern Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Terrorism Financing: Probe Those Who Have Close Ties With Bandits  Kukah To FG

Lawal, who confirmed that the abducted Kuriga schoolchildren and a few other victims of banditry were rescued in Zamfara, said the situation has spurred the state to be more proactive in changing the narratives.

Most of the guys or the girls kidnapped in Kaduna state, ended up in Zamfara State, that is not good for us, and therefore were doing everything to change the narratives and that is one of the reasons I came to see the president today.

That is why I am here today I have informed Mr. President and I have his assurance that something drastic will be done to take care of the situation as soon as possible.

As you are fully aware, Governors dont have control over the military and the police. It is the responsibility of the Federal Government.

Therefore, at any point, we need to inform Mr. President so that we can get his blessing either to direct them or to do something else that will help them take care of that situation, he added.
Four times a week, actor Dan Plehal prepares his body for a role unlike anything he has done before  playing Sven the reindeer in Frozen, running at the Academy of Music through April 7.

For roughly 40 minutes onstage, Plehal holds a plank position on four stilts while maneuvering an eight-foot-tall, 50-pound puppet and managing to infuse it with Svens adorable charm. No animatronics needed.

Its the hardest thing Ive ever done in my life, said Plehal, who lived in Philadelphia for a couple years and took classes at Pig Iron School in South Kensington.

In learning to act like a reindeer, he took cues from his small dog Oliver. Given the extreme physical demands, he shares the role with another actor on tour, alternating shows.

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But the exertion is worth it: Sven always gets applause. Still, when the musical adaptation was first in development, the production planned to cut the character because the reindeer seemed too complex to achieve onstage.

That was until puppet-making master Michael Curry, the co-creator of The Lion King puppets, took on the challenge. The stunning result is made of carbon-fiber composite, foam, and orthopedic braces, allowing the actor to control the larger-than-life puppets eyes and ears (though the performers vision is limited).

Michael Curry has created this really beautiful puppet but its not a full character until the performers get inside of it. They create this really three-dimensional character thats such an important part of Arendelle, said puppet supervisor Sue McLaughlin, who spent years working with the puppets in Lion King. Its amazing to watch, and its magical in every way.

Before landing Sven in 2022, Pehal had no experience in stilt walking or puppetry, but he had trained in acrobatics, physical theater, and circus performance as part of his graduate schooling in Italy and Chicago, where he now lives.

Pig Iron really helped me decide, yeah, this is what I want to lean into more, said Plehal. I loved the idea of just spending all day getting to know my body and the other people in the room and how we could interact with each other and create art together, not prioritizing the written word.

Now that hes back in town, hes looking forward to revisiting some of his favorite neighborhood haunts in Rittenhouse Square and the Gayborhood. When the intensive schedule allows, Plehal and the Frozen crew will head to El Vez because, he said, We are a team that likes margaritas.

Frozen runs through April 7 at the Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, 215-893-1999 or ensembleartsphilly.org.
Curtis Linton Jr., senior field engineer, demonstrates the capabilities of drones that use Exyn Technology's software for such uses as mapping mines at the company's headquarters in a converted warehouse in South Philadelphia. Read more

Exyn Technologies goes places GPS cant always reach. The robotics company has underground-mining and heavy-equipment-making partners and customers on every continent, and is looking to supply gas and energy companies.

Exyn chief field engineer Curtis Linton Jr. and his colleagues demonstrated the companys new Nexys mapping platform in Exyns headquarters, a converted South Philly warehouse, last week. The company says Nexys collects and sends more accurate data faster than the companys earlier products.

The walls of the headquarters are lined with shelves of black quadcopters and other drones, which Linton and colleagues are refitting with communications and sensor-bearing hardware that runs Exyn software, including fist-sized lidar (light detection and ranging) units. We add our software to this off-the-shelf hardware, and integrated it into the drone, to our specifications, Linton said.

Right now its modular: we install the software and connect it to your drones. Were going to make it so you can buy the software and install it yourself, so your drones and devices communicate directly and your fleet is autonomous, said Justin Lehmann, an Exyn marketing manager.

Local workers, global reach

The mining companies use Exyn systems to map mines where its difficult to send human surveyors or collect data from cameras. The builders use the systems to check progress and security on building sites.

We think autonomy is the future for drones and for ground robots, for places that are dirty, dull, and dangerous, where you dont necessarily want to send a person, said Brandon Torres Declet, Exyns chief executive. This system you can put in a backpack or onto a handheld [device]. What the customer cares about is the intensity of the cloud of data we are measuring. They need a really accurate map.

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We spend a lot of time underground, added Raffi Jabrayan, head of sales. He noted that many deep mines are adopting fully electric vehicles ahead of surface trucking, despite heavy battery weight and need for charging facilities that have so far left electric long-haul trucks a rarity. Underground, electric vehicles have the advantages of avoiding the need for exhaust ventilation and hauling diesel fuel.

Torres Declet adds that jobs lost to drones in the field tend to balance against new jobs created to analyze the vast data Exyn software collects and put it to work extracting, processing, and selling products.

Torres Declet took the top job last year after founding CEO Nader Elm departed following nine years at the helm. Exyns lead investor is Delaware-based Longview Innovation, affiliated with U.K.-based IP Group PLC. Another investor is Indias Reliance industrial group.

With 45 people, half based at its offices in Point Breeze, weve become a global company, said Torres Declet, who previously headed and sold Measure, a Washington-area drone software developer, and advised antiterrorism agencies for the U.S. government and New York City.

Exyns clients include New York-based Turner Construction, Japanese builder Obayashi, Chiles Codelco state copper company, Swedens Sandvik engineering group, miners in Africa and Australia, and Canadas Dundee Precious Metals and its Bulgarian copper and gold mine.

Penn roots, weapon worries

Former CEO Elm started Exyn nine years ago in partnership with Vijay Kumar, then head of University of Pennsylvanias robotics lab, now its engineering school dean, said Michael Burychka, managing partner at investor Longview. Every venture capitalist was making drone investments, recalled Burychka. But drones are just an application. The real technology is the software, which at Exyn is unique, in its autonomy.

Drones have transformed battlefields in recent wars, sparking an arms race to build efficient airborne weapons. U.S. military interest in drones has advanced in response to the threat, and managers at Philadelphia-area Boeing, Leonardo, and Piasecki helicopter factories and Berwyn-based TE Connectivity, which makes aircraft sensors, are developing products to meet demand.

Exyns staff, with its Penn roots, is aware of that demand and the company has taken a stand against military applications of its technology. Though Exyns systems are used by governments, a company policy commits Exyn staff to uses that do not put lives at risk. We do not support the weaponization of our autonomous systems, and will not work on weaponized autonomous systems or licensing.

Outgrowing Philly?

Exyn expects to be looking for a new home soon. Our lease runs out in 2027. Im a city guy, I think its great we are here close to major universities. My preference is to grow the business in the city, said Torres Declet.

But we might outgrow this space. We have tons of things in production and in quality assurance and quality control. So weve been talking to the mayors office, and the governors office. Theyve sent people who have spent hours learning about our company, he added.

City officials are connecting Exyn with local and regional partners and looking for ways to help it grow here, affirmed Alba Martinez, the citys new commerce director, in a statement. Exyn Technologies is a world-class asset, and city leaders under Mayor Cherelle L. Parker have committed to advancing Philadelphia as a hub for technology companies, Martinez added.
Council member Jamie Gauthier initiated the hearing on preparing Philadelphia residents for life sciences jobs. In this photo, Gauthier is seen speaking at a November 2023 press conference. Read more

Philadelphia City Council members want to help city residents land jobs in the emerging life sciences industry, especially those without college degrees.

In particular, the cell and gene therapy companies proliferating in the city offer an opportunity to lift Philadelphians out of poverty, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier said Monday at a hearing of the committee on commerce and economic development.

Her district in West Philadelphia includes some of the citys preeminent research institutions, as well as some of the poorest neighborhoods.

We have a responsibility to ensure that Philadelphians from the highest-need neighborhoods have the tools and support systems they need to get these jobs, she said.

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The Philadelphia region is now home to more than 60 companies working on cell and gene therapies, which seek to treat diseases by correcting a deficiency in a persons DNA. Their presence has doubled since 2019, Bryan Tsao, manager of life science and health care initiatives at the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, said at the city hearing.

The companies are working on cutting-edge medical treatments, such as CRISPR gene-editing for sickle cell anemia, CAR-T to treat cancer of the blood, and a new treatment that allows deaf children to hear.

 READ MORE: The FDA just approved the first gene-editing treatment, and CHOP played a key role

The gene therapy industry is considered a growth sector. A treatment for a rare blood cancer developed in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania was the first gene therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration, in 2017. Since then, the growing number of treatments has spawned new companies and billions of dollars in annual sales.

Skills in demand

Anticipating an employment boom around gene therapy, the city established partnerships to train residents and provide apprenticeship opportunities, said Sam Wood Thomas, senior director of business development and workforce solutions at the citys Department of Commerce.

For example, the city has funded workforce programs at the Community College of Philadelphia and the University City Science Center that teach skills such as lab techniques. These jobs can pay $40,000 to $60,000 a year, according to the Community College of Philadelphia.

But the demand for skilled workers is still outpacing the current supply of Philadelphia residents with these skills, Thomas said. Local companies are hiring people from outside the city.

We must consider new strategies and funding to create more training opportunities and new training facilities, he said.

Although the City Council hearing showcased the economic potential of biotech hiring, the industry has faced financial headwinds in recent years.

Penns Gene Therapy Program laid off 84 employees in December, citing external financial constraints, including diminished research funding from industry sponsors. More broadly, Philly-area biotech firms laid off more than 500 people since the start of 2022, according to a September analysis by the Philadelphia Business Journal.

 READ MORE: Penns gene therapy layoffs are the latest in biotech belt-tightening in Philly and beyond

Representatives from biotech companies were bullish about future growth.

Employers need to access a rich candidate pool of capable technicians who have mastered key skills, said Anne Brooks, a senior vice president at Iovance Biotherapeutics, a locally based developer of cell therapies for cancer.

Early exposure to science

Philadelphia college students told Council members how early exposure to science shaped their career interest.

Unique Stephens, a senior at Cheyney University, took a biomedical research methods class that taught her lab skills such as growing cells in petri dishes. Now she uses them an intern at the Wistar Institute, a National Cancer Institute-designated research center ringed by the University of Pennsylvania.

When she took her first science class at her Philadelphia high school, Stephens had no background or exposure to science.

It seemed far-fetched that someone from my limited science background would succeed in the field, she said.

Stephens shared her story at the Council hearing reading from written testimony. Then she looked up with a smile and an update: The Wistar Institute recently offered her a full-time job when she graduates.

Staff writer Tom Avril contributed to this article.
J&J has filed a lawsuit accusing a former employee of stealing more than 1,000 confidential business documents when he went to work for Pfizer in 2023. Read more

Pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson is suing a former employee from Doylestown that it alleges stole more than 1,000 confidential documents when he left for a similar job at competitor drugmaker Pfizer.

The allegedly stolen documents outline business, pricing, and market strategies related to J&J drugs that compete with Pfizer products, according to the lawsuit filed last week in New Jersey federal court.

The lawsuit highlights the significance of trade secrets and employee confidentiality in the competitive pharmaceutical and life sciences industry, according to the health news website STAT, which first covered the J&J lawsuit last week. Pfizer has a similar civil lawsuit pending against one of its former employees, which it accuses of stealing information about its coronavirus vaccine and a pair of cancer drugs. And in a criminal case, a former Genentech scientist and her husband were convicted in 2021 of stealing trade secrets to give to another company, STAT noted.

Now, J&J is suing a former employee, Andrew Brackbill, who spent 24 years working on finance, pricing, and market strategy. He left the company last summer.

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Most recently, he oversaw trade channel strategies for J&Js Strategic Customer Group, where he worked on developing plans for drug pricing, distribution channels, and J&J market strategies.

The lawsuit says Brackbill pilfered the sensitive business information in violation of federal and state laws intended to protect trade secrets. This included J&Js 10-year strategic plan, information about products under development, market and distributor analysis, and clinical study results.

J&J learned through an automated security alert that Brackbill had downloaded the documents to an external hard drive in his final weeks of employment. A forensic analysis of his computer found that he accessed the files after his employment at Pfizer began, the lawsuit said.

The lawsuit further alleges that Brackbill had signed a noncompete that prevented him from working for a competitor in a job similar to his J&J-affiliated role.

Recently, J&J learned from Pfizer that Brackbill is now leading contract strategy for Pfizers U.S. market access group, which, according to the lawsuit, is equivalent to the unit he worked for at the J&J subsidiary.

Neither Brackbill nor J&Js attorneys responded to The Inquirers request for comment. Pfizer, which is not being sued, also did not provide comment on the allegations raised in the lawsuit.
Councilmember and Minority Whip Nicolas O'Rourke in Philadelphia City Council Jan. 25, 2024. He was one of the Council members who pressed the administration on its proposed flat spending for worker protections. Read more

In a year when the city of Philadelphia is negotiating contracts with its major municipal workers unions, and under pressure from worker advocates to increase enforcement of worker protections, Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers budget has proposed no funding increase for the citys labor department.

With regard to forthcoming contract negotiations with city workers, administration leaders noted in a budget hearing on Tuesday that the city already reached one-year contract extensions with the police and fire and sheriffs departments, rather than negotiating longer-term agreements.

We are very hopeful that we can sign maybe one or two more one-year extensions with our municipal workforce, chief Deputy Mayor Sincere Harris said. Contracts set to expire this year include those for AFSCME District Council 33 and AFSCME District Council 47, which together have about 15,000 members.

The Parker administration proposed a $4.71 million budget for the four-year old Department of Labor. Thats a slight decrease from the $4.77 million budgeted for the current year, though total spending for the department this fiscal year is expected to surpass $5.1 million.

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Department leaders said the excess is attributable to two one-time expenses last year: large payouts for longtime employees who left, and arbitration fees. The severance cost was $162,580 and the arbitration cost $256,000.

Meanwhile, organizations that represent nonunionized workers are pushing for additional funds to support worker-protections investigations and enforcement. Several City Council members similarly pressed the administration on its proposed flat spending for worker protections.

The Office of Worker Protections budget saw nearly 45% increase in complaints year over year, said Councilmember Nicolas ORourke. Does it make sense to hold [back] this departments budget given that significant need?

What worker advocates want from Philadelphias budget

A coalition of worker-focused groups, including National Domestic Workers Alliance, Philly Black Worker Project, and Restaurant Opportunities Center of Pennsylvania, and AFL-CIO Philadelphia Council, which represents local labor unions, wants the labor departments Office of Worker Protections to get $2.6 million to itself for the next fiscal year. They want the office to triple its staff and provide additional resources, such as a mental health fund for workers who dont have access to health-care coverage.

The plans to rein in spending would not cut staffing levels  Parkers proposal includes money to add three labor relations positions and two more staff positions for labor policy and compliance, which includes the Office of Worker Protections.

Councilmember Kendra Brooks pressed Parkers administration about the overall decrease in funding for the department, given that its total expenses this year were over $5 million, asking how it would affect investigations of worker complaints. Will workers have to wait even longer? And what services will your department stop providing to these Philadelphia workers? Brooks asked.

We are not making any cuts, Harris responded. We are making sure that all of the Department of Labor still has the same number of  full-time employees so that they can do that critical work and in protecting against wage theft.

Last years budget and worker-protection results

A year ago, then-Mayor Jim Kenneys final proposed budget had set aside less than $4 million for the labor department, but the final budget had an additional $800,000.

Labor Department director Perritti DiVirgilio, who took on that role earlier this month, estimated that about three-quarters of that additional funding went to the Office of Worker Protections. The office enforces city labor laws, investigating complaints related to wage theft, violations against Philadelphias Fair Workweek law, and paid sick leave violations.

Last year was the offices best yet in recovering money for workers. The $328,000 recovered was more than double what the office got for workers in 2022, and more than 15 times its recoveries in 2018.

The majority of that money came from Fair Workweek and paid sick leave cases, though wage theft complaints are the most commonly filed.

Despite that accomplishment, worker advocates point to other city governments that provide greater staffing resources to worker protections, like Seattle, Denver, and San Francisco.

Our staffing level for that particular office is among the lowest in the country, Councilmember Jeffery Young said. So how do you intend to essentially cut down on the complaint time?

Labor Department chief of staff Manny Citron acknowledged that more than half of complaints take more than three months to address, and that needs more attention and more work. He said filling vacancies in the Office of Worker Protections is part of that, adding that the department director signed four job-offer letters to worker-protections candidates just yesterday.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after a container ship ran into it on the Patapsco River in Baltimore on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Read more

A cargo ship lost power and ran into a bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing the span to collapse into a river and prompting a search for survivors.

Officials said they were searching for at least six people who were on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when it was struck by the ship Tuesday morning. Two people were pulled from the water and one remains in the hospital, according to Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld.

The bridge collapse shut down ship traffic in the Port of Baltimore, a big commercial hub, threatening supply chain disruptions.

While the impact on Philadelphia remains to be seen, heres what we know about how the collapse may impact the Port of Philadelphia and the lives of area commuters.

No significant traffic challenges in Pa. expected

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation does not anticipate significant traffic challenges in the state, an agency spokesperson said.

But ... Baltimores death-grip congestion might cause a few delays

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge could complicate personal travel and trucking in the Philadelphia region and beyond because of Baltimores central location on I-95, the East Coasts major traffic corridor.

Just two tunnels remain for interstate traffic through Baltimore and its moatlike harbor to the Chesapeake Bay and south, said Chenfeng Xiong, an assistant engineering professor at Villanova University specializing in transportation. Theyll be swamped, Xiong said, speaking of the Fort McHenry Tunnel, which carries I-95 traffic, and the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel, which carries I-895 traffic. They can be clogged even in normal conditions.

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Theres going to be death-grip congestion there, he said, delaying travel to and from Philadelphia, increasing costs for the trucks that supply the region and service its massive warehouses.

The effective blockade of the land entrance to Baltimores port could lead to delays in cargo and shipping cost increases, said Xiong, who uses big data to analyze traffic patterns and transportation economics. He has conducted research for the Maryland Department of Transportation.

Alternative routes if youre traveling from Philly to Baltimore

Here is what Philadelphia-area travelers heading to or around Baltimore need to know about detours:

I-695, a beltway that encircles Baltimore and its near suburbs, is not available for crossing Baltimore Harbor because of the collapse of the bridge.

Maryland authorities advise that motorists can cross the harbor via the Fort McHenry Tunnel, which carries I-95 traffic, and the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel, which carries I-895 traffic under the Patapsco River a few miles above the closed bridge.

Traffic on the outer loop of I-695 is being detoured at Maryland Route 10 at Exit 2. The detour for inner-loop traffic is at Exit 43 for MD 157.

Philly port ready to assist, if needed

The head of the logistics company that operates the Port of Philadelphias biggest terminal said Tuesday that he expects the container ship accident in Baltimore to have an impact on supply chains but expressed confidence that East Coast ports would be able to handle additional cargo.

Vessel traffic into and out of Baltimore was suspended after the bridge collapse.

The supply chain will be taxed, we believe, in the weeks and months to come, but no more so than what we experienced in recent years and have demonstrated in terms of the North Atlantic ports as having an absolute resilience to challenges, said Leo Holt, president of Holt Logistics, which operates the Packer Avenue Marine Terminal in South Philadelphia.

Holt said he and the entire port community were heartbroken by the events in Baltimore. Eight construction workers were on the bridge when it collapsed, officials said, and the search for survivors was ongoing.

Port authorities, ocean shipping carriers, and cargo owners will work together to find a home for cargo diverted from Baltimore until that port is back up and running, he said. Its unclear how long that will take.

This is not Philadelphia vs. Baltimore, Holt said.   This is ports in the North Atlantic reaching out to support Baltimore.

A major trade hub, Baltimores port handled almost 850,000 autos and light trucks in 2023, the most of any port in the country, according to Maryland state data. Other imports include sugar and coffee.

Baltimore-bound cargo ships are likely to be diverted to bigger container ports in New York, New Jersey, and Virginia, the Wall Street Journal reported. The Port of Philadelphia has almost doubled container volume in the last eight years, but remains a smaller player in container shipping.

Ryan Mulvey, director of government and public affairs for the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority (PhilaPort), said the state agency stands ready to support the Port of Baltimore.

The port community is relatively small. We all know each other. We try to support each other. If there are diversions, if ships need places to go, we stand at the ready for that to ensure the supply chain remains intact, he said. Right now I dont think anyones thoughts are on how cargo is going to land. Its more so on rescuing and supporting rescue workers on the scene.

Staff writer Rob Tornoe contributed to this article.
BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang held talks with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on Tuesday in Beijing. Li said China and Sri Lanka are strategic partners of cooperation characterized by sincere mutual assistance and enduring friendship spanning generations. The two countries have always respected each other and enjoyed equality and reciprocal cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic relations 67 years ago, he added. China is ready to work with Sri Lanka to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during their talks last year, carry forward the tradition of friendship, consolidate political mutual trust, and expand bilateral cooperation in various fields to promote common development, Li noted. China supports Sri Lanka's efforts to realize national unity and stability as well as independent economic development, Li said, adding that China is willing to push forward the implementation of major projects under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, agriculture and marine research. He called on the two sides to explore cooperation potential in clean energy and telecommunication while strengthening exchanges and cooperation in culture, tourism and education. China encourages more companies to invest in Sri Lanka and is willing to increase imports of Sri Lankan quality products, Li said, expressing the hope that Sri Lanka could provide a good business environment for Chinese companies. Gunawardena thanked China for providing long-term support to Sri Lanka's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and helping the country realize economic and social development and cope with the COVID-19 pandemic and financial crisis. Hailing the Belt and Road Initiative and global initiatives proposed by China, he said that Sri Lanka has always adhered to the one-China principle and will continue to firmly pursue policies to strengthen friendly cooperation with China. Sri Lanka will work with China to solidly advance the Belt and Road cooperation, deepen cooperation in various fields, and further cultural exchanges and engagement between the two peoples, to promote the common development of the two countries and regional peace and stability, Gunawardena said. Li and Gunawardena witnessed the signing of a batch of deals in areas such as trade, investment, customs and development cooperation after their talks at the Great Hall of the People. At the invitation of the Chinese premier, Gunawardena is on an official visit to China from March 25 to 30.


The Battleship New Jersey was on the move again Wednesday.

After heading from its dock in Camden to the Paulsboro Marine Terminal last week to prepare for dry docking, the decorated battleship trekked across the river to the Philadelphia Navy Yard.

The ship departed from Paulsboro around 11 a.m. and docked at the Philadelphia Navy Yard a little after 2 p.m. There, it will undergo routine maintenance, repairs, and repainting for the first time in 32 years.

Beginning next month, there will be guided tours of the battleship while in dry dock. Tickets are available on the Battleship New Jerseys website.

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Last weeks journey down the Delaware River marked the first time the battleship had been moved since 2001, and in a nod to its history, the vessel is dry-docked in the same berth where it was built beginning in 1940 and launched on Dec. 7, 1942, one year after the Pearl Harbor attack thrust the United States into World War II.

Once again, four tractor tugs pulled the Battleship New Jersey across the river, though Wednesdays trip was shorter than last weeks journey from Camden, drawing onlookers on both sides of the river and other boats in the water marveled at the 45,000-ton battleship.

The restoration work is expected to take at least two months, with a goal of getting the battleship back in Camden for Memorial Day and summer tourism traffic. The whole project is set to cost about $10 million.

The USS New Jersey entered service in 1942 and saw action during many conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. It served in the Navy for about 50 years before being decommissioned in February 1991. It was turned into a floating museum in 2011.

Staff writer Ximena Conde contributed to this report.
A member of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club's Inner Circle presents Punxsutawney Phil, who makes his weather prediction on Groundhog Day at Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., on Feb. 2, 2019. Punxsutawney Phil and his wife, Phyllis, had two surprise baby groundhogs, according to the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club. Read more

Were pleased to bring you very serious and important breaking news regarding cute, furry, baby animals and Pennsylvania lore: Punxsutawney Phil and his wife, Phyllis, have babies.

As first reported by ABC27 News, the iconic groundhog couple has welcomed two baby groundhogs into their family. Although we dont know their names, Thomas Dunkel, president of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club Inner Circle, told the TV station that the woodchuck pups are healthy  and that their entry was a surprise.

We did not think that this would happen in captivity because it never has, Dunkel said. But apparently, we were wrong.

According to the lore, this is the first time in 138 years that the groundhogs have procreated.

 READ MORE: An unofficial Groundhog Day musical is taking off on TikTok

The average groundhog lives four to six years and up to 14 in captivity. Of course, as Dunkel and the groundhog club insist: Phil is special (Dunkel also shared with ABC27 that he has a special cane that lets him speak Groundhogease). He receives a special elixir to extend his life. The Inquirer and other news outlets have been unable to verify Phils age or the elixirs legitimacy independently.

According to Dunkel, a groundhog club member discovered the babies when he visited Phil and Phyllis climate-controlled burrow to feed them. He added that Phils children will not inherit his seer of seers or prognosticator abilities because, simply, theres only one Phil.
Julia Chaney speaks to the audience during the Underground Railroad Museum's  A Celebration of Local Iconic Heroes/Sheroes at Rowan College at Burlington County in Mount Laurel, N.J. on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024. Read more

The Rev. Julia Chaney-Moss was 17 when it happened.

Thats how Chaney-Moss, who now lives in South Jersey, sometimes talks about the night of June 21, 1964.

That was the night her brother, James Earl Chaney, 21, Michael Schwerner, 24, and Andrew Goodman, 20, were killed by Ku Klux Klan members who were accompanied by a local deputy sheriff, Cecil Price.

The young civil rights activists  Chaney was Black and lived in Meridian, Miss.; Schwerner and Goodman were white, Jewish and both from New York  were working to help Black people register to vote in Mississippi during Freedom Summer. The FBI called the case Mississippi Burning, and it garnered world-wide attention. It helped spur passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Last month, the Underground Railroad Museum of Burlington County honored James Chaney and several former New Jersey residents for Black History Month at Rowan College at Burlington County in Mount Laurel.

Chaney-Moss, now 77, accepted the Wall of Honor Award on behalf of her brother, whom she called J.E.

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Chaney-Moss spoke in a soft, measured voice and did not go into details about the pain of losing her brother to racial violence.

She talked about how her father, Ben Chaney Sr., was a builder who worked on many of the university and office buildings across the state.

Her mother, Fannie Lee Chaney, had been a baker. They lived in an integrated neighborhood in Meridian, with Black and white families on the same block.

It was kind of a mixed neighborhood, although the neighbors didnt mingle, she later told The Inquirer. That was the kind of environment we grew up in. Everybody minded their own business.

Also honored that night at Rowan were former Palmyra Police Chief Payton I. Flournoy; Franco Harris, the Pittsburgh Steeler running back and Mount Holly native; Carl Lewis, the Olympic gold medalist from Willingboro; Eugene Stafford the first Black police officer and first Black mayor of Mount Holly, and the Women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an predominantly Black battalion of the Womans Army Corps (WACs), who served in Europe during World War II.

The other Philadelphia

There have been documentary films and televised movies about the murders of Chaney, Goodman and Schwerner. However, perhaps the most well-known Hollywood film about the case, Mississippi Burning, (1988) has been widely criticized for centering the white FBI agents who investigated the case as the films heroes. One reviewer wrote: The fact that black people were not just victims, but activist-heroes in their own struggle, is totally left out.

On June 13, 1964, nearly 1,000 college students from across the country arrived at the Western College for Women, in Oxford, Ohio, for two weeks of training before setting out as volunteers for Freedom Summer.

Schwerner and Chaney, who were already working as CORE staffers in Meridian, had traveled to Ohio to help train the new volunteers. On campus, they met Andrew Goodman, a new volunteer. They were in Ohio, when they learned that a Black church, Mount Zion Methodist Church in Longdale, Miss., had been burned to the ground. Before leaving for Ohio, Chaney and Schwerner had gotten permission to host a Freedom School at the church that summer.

On Saturday, June 20, Chaney and Schwerner, joined by Goodman, drove from Ohio to investigate the church burning. After visiting the church and meeting with church officials, the three men set out to drive back to Meridian on Sunday afternoon, June 21.

At about 5 p.m., as they drove into Philadelphia, Miss., the civil rights workers were stopped by Neshoba County deputy sheriff Cecil Price. Price claimed that Chaney, who had been driving, was speeding. They were arrested and taken to jail and were released about 10:30 p.m. They never made it back to Meridian.

The civil rights workers burned-out blue station wagon was found two days later near Philadelphia, Miss.  news accounts at the time described the town, as the other Philadelphia.

But the bodies of the men would not be found until 44 days later, on Aug. 4, 1964.

 READ MORE: Murder in Mississippi

Worldwide attention and more bodies

There was worldwide attention focused on the activists. And that was because two of the victims were white, family members of both Chaney and Schwerner have said.

Indeed, during the 44 days, while FBI agents and others searched for the bodies of the three civil rights workers, they recovered the bodies of a 14-year-old boy, two 19-year-old men, and five unidentified men from the Mississippi River. All were Black.

In 1967, only seven of 18 men initially tied to the killings were convicted of federal civil rights violations. None served longer than six years. In June 2005, 41 years to the day after the killings, a jury convicted Edgar Ray Killen, 80, a Klansman and a Baptist preacher, of manslaughter. He died in 2018 at age 92 at the Mississippi State Penitentiary.

From Mississippi to New Jersey

In the months after her brother was murdered, Chaney-Moss said white men drove through her mothers neighborhood, blasting firecrackers and tossing eggs at the family home.

At the time, Chaney-Moss had recently graduated from nursing school and gotten married. She wasnt living at home with her mother.

Three of the four surviving Chaney siblings were already adults in 1964. Only the youngest brother, Ben Chaney Jr., who was 11, still lived at home.

Terrifying phone calls were being made to her mothers house, calls that threatened to dynamite the home, and members of Schwerners and Goodmans families helped Chaney-Moss mother and younger brother move to New York.

Chaney-Moss remained in Meridian for several years after her brother was killed.

She tried to persuade her husband to move to New York also. She was now the mother of two young daughters and feared for their lives.

But her husband not only did not want to leave the state, he also didnt want her to work, either. Chaney-Moss said she was restless and wanted to do more with her life.

Five years after her brothers murder, she took her two daughters to New York, leaving her husband behind. The two never divorced.

In New York, she took a secretarial job at New York University, after she learned she could take classes for free if she worked there. She earned certificates at NYU and eventually worked at the New York Foundling, a social service agency for 40 years.

Sometime in the 1990s, she moved with her mother to Willingboro, where another sister, Barbara, had already moved.

One day, my mother said to me, I am tired of walking out on this concrete. I want to walk on some grass, Chaney-Moss told The Inquirer.

Today, she is the last of the five Chaney siblings from Meridian, Miss. The day after she spoke at Rowan College, Chaney-Moss buried her remaining sibling, her brother, Ben Chaney Jr., who was 71.

About 30 years ago, Chaney-Moss became a minister. Asked how she could have faith after living through such a tragedy, Chaney-Moss said:

Because I have a relationship with the God of my understanding.
Nathaniel Gordon, 20, of Philadelphia, a University of Pennsylvania student who overcame daunting obstacles to rise to the Ivy League, died Saturday, March 23, at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center.

Penn officials declined to comment on the circumstances surrounding Mr. Gordons sudden death, but offered counseling and support to university students coping with his loss.

Born in rural Georgia, Mr. Gordon moved to Philadelphia to live with a relative at age 13 when family circumstances grew difficult. By age 14, he was in the citys foster care system.

Bright and curious, Mr. Gordon, who was known as Nate, was a strong student, having been homeschooled in Georgia. But by the time he shifted to foster care, he was enrolled in online school and behind on credits, not stimulated by his classwork.

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 READ MORE: In group homes, this Philly student fell behind in school. Then he discovered a program and got himself into Penn.

Though he lacked the support that many young people get, Mr. Gordon knew he wanted better for his future. On his own, Mr. Gordon sought out programs that might help him achieve his goals, and enrolled in Gateway to College, a Community College of Philadelphia program that places Philadelphia School District students who have disengaged from traditional schools onto a path to earn their high school diplomas while earning college credits.

I wanted to continue my education and get ahead, Mr. Gordon told The Inquirer in 2022. I always had the idea of going to college, but it seemed so far away, especially given where I was.

Surrounded by staff who wrapped their arms around him, Mr. Gordon soared, notching straight As and perfect attendance and participating in the colleges Institute for Community Engagement and Civic Leadership.

Monifa Young, Gateway to Colleges director, flagged Mr. Gordon early on as something special, just very studious, focused. You would never know about his circumstances. He was truly driven.

Mr. Gordons successes felt personal to many Gateway students, who saw possibilities for themselves because of what Mr. Gordon had weathered.

He will always be the poster child for the program, said Young. He embodied what success looked like and the kind of student that we hope we can make a difference in their lives. This is just devastating  he had so much more to accomplish, and his life was cut so short.

Mr. Gordon eventually started to work as an intern in state Sen. Sharif Streets office through a partnership the office has with Gateway to College. He immediately impressed Aissia Richardson, Streets deputy chief of staff.

He was amazing, said Richardson. He was incredibly curious; he was just a great kid.

Even as Gordon racked up recognition, his home life was unstable; he moved four times in his senior year of high school. Mr. Gordon would sometimes take boxes of cereal from the food pantry at Streets office to the young people who lived in his foster home.

We adopted Nate, said Richardson. Street staffers would give him rides to work. Mr. Gordon got into Penn on his own merit, but once he did, Richardson made phone calls to Penn administrators to make sure his financial aid was in place.

Civic engagement was important to Mr. Gordon; he designed three bookmarks to educate Streets constituents. Staffers proudly tell visitors to the offices that the young man who designed them went on to Penn, Richardson said.

He made an impact, said Richardson. Mr. Gordon, she said, volunteered at health fairs, turkey drives, meal distributions, and other community events. I will always remember his persistence.

Mr. Gordon was the Gateway to College valedictorian in 2022, and the first Gateway to College student to earn a spot at any Ivy League university. He had already amassed 36 college credits, and had a grade-point average above 4.0.

At Penn, he participated in Makuu, the universitys Black cultural center. He was an economics major who continued to give back  recently volunteering to teach middle schoolers about financial literacy, and, at Youngs invitation, speaking to Gateway seniors about his path to Penn.

He did talk about how it was a transition, being in an environment where your peers are affluent, said Young. His story was quite the opposite. He said it was an initial culture shock, but he had different advisers and Gateway staff reminding him, You belong, youre there because you belong.

Information about survivors was not immediately available. A memorial service was being planned by Gateway to College.

Staff writer Susan Snyder contributed to this article.
Third Circuit Court judge nominee Adeel Mangi testifies during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing at the U.S. Capitol in December. Read more

In 2011, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie nominated Sohail Mohammed for a seat on the states Superior Court. An immigrant from India, Mohammed had helped the FBI improve relations with the Muslim community after the 9/11 attacks. But he had also criticized the targeting of Muslims and other Middle Easterners by law enforcement, which raised eyebrows in some Republican quarters.

One critic charged that Mohammed was a longtime mouthpiece for radical Islamists. Another said that Christie was in bed with the enemy, and that nominating Mohammed had placed New Jersey on a path toward becoming the Sharia state.

Christie wasnt having it. This Sharia law business is crap, he told a news conference. Its just crazy, and Im tired of dealing with the crazies.

Mohammed was confirmed for the bench, but the crazies are still here. This time, theyre targeting a man who would become the first Muslim judge on a federal appeals court. And it looks like theyre going to win.

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Im talking about New Jersey attorney Adeel Mangi, whom President Joe Biden nominated for the Philadelphia-based U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Once again, Republicans are suggesting that a Muslim judicial candidate is somehow soft on terrorism. But nobody in the GOP is courageous enough to call them out, as Christie did a decade ago.

At Mangis confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee in December, Sen. Ted Cruz (R., Texas) noted that Mangi had given money to the Center for Security, Race and Rights (CSRR) at Rutgers University, which has hosted speakers who have praised the Palestinian intifada against Israel. Cruz went on to ask Mangi if he supported Hamas; not to be outdone, Sen. John Kennedy (R., La.) asked Mangi if he celebrated the 9/11 attacks.

Thats what used to be called guilt by association. Your name has been linked to a controversial organization. So surely you must support everything the organization has ever said or done.

In reply, Mangi fully condemned the Oct. 7 Hamas assault on Israel as well as the 9/11 attacks. I dont think anyone can feel more strongly about what happened on 9/11 than someone who was there, Mangi said, noting that he had been in New York on that day. I will condemn, without equivocation, any terrorism, any terrorist, any act of terrorism, or any defense of any act of terrorism.

You would think that would be enough. But you would be wrong because the Islamophobes are in charge. Mangi is a Muslim, so he must prove that he doesnt sympathize with terrorists. And nothing he says is going to convince anyone whos blinded by bias.

Ditto for the scurrilous charge of antisemitism, which also got bandied about during his confirmation hearing. After claiming  without evidence  that the CSRR was a mouthpiece for Hamas, Sen. Josh Hawley (R., Mo.) asked whether Mangi had ever evinced any concern for Jewish students at Rutgers.

Never mind that the Anti-Defamation League and several other Jewish organizations expressed their support for Mangi, and condemned the GOP senators insinuations of antisemitism. Mr. Mangi was subjected to aggressive questioning unrelated to his professional expertise or qualifications, the ADL declared.

And if you have any doubt about those qualifications, take a quick look at his biography published by the corporate law firm where he works. (Full disclosure: My brother, who is a criminal court judge in New York, worked for the same firm many years ago.) Mangi has degrees from Oxford and Harvard. He has won cases involving theft of trade secrets, consumer protection, and false advertising. A litigation magazine recently named him one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in the United States.

These claims about my positions are categorically false, misinformed, and mistaken. Adeel Mangi

But he also successfully fought efforts by two New Jersey communities to prevent the construction of mosques. He has served on the board of directors of the Muslim Bar Association and Muslims for Progressive Values. Clearly, hes both an accomplished attorney and a proud representative of his religion.

Thats what his Republican critics cant tolerate. They will never accept someone who is so prominently associated with Islam.

Even some Democrats are running scared. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D., Nev.) said last Tuesday that she would oppose Mangis nomination. She cited Mangis involvement with the Alliance of Families for Justice, which provides legal aid and counseling to families of incarcerated people.

But it also sponsored a fellowship named after the late militant Kathy Boudin  who served jail time for her role in the murder of a police officer  and demanded the release of convicted cop killer Mumia Abu-Jamal.

More guilt by association. As Mangi emphasized in a letter released last week, he never met Boudin and had no knowledge of the fellowship named after her. Nor has he ever expressed support for people who engage in violence against police, which he called horrific and indefensible.

These claims about my positions are categorically false, misinformed, and mistaken, Mangi wrote, calling on his critics to retract their claims now that the facts are clear.

Dont hold your breath for that. When Muslims are being judged in the realm of public opinion, it often seems as if the facts dont count.

Mohammed faced similarly baseless accusations in 2011 from GOP lawmakers in New Jersey, who asked him to define the word jihad and to say whether he had ever objected to the term Islamo terrorist.

Christie wasnt afraid to call that what it was: bigotry, plain and simple. They are criticizing him because he is Muslim American, Christie said. Too bad nobody in the Republican Party has the guts to say that now.
Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich is escorted from the Lefortovsky court in Moscow on Jan. 26. Gershkovich was arrested on March 29, 2023, on espionage charges, which he and the newspaper deny. Read more

I vividly recall a spring day in 2016 when I was showing my brother, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, around Philadelphia, and he pointed out The Inquirer Building. The Philadelphia Inquirer is an excellent publication, he told me excitedly, surprised I didnt know.

I had walked past the building many times at that point. New to living in Philly after having moved from New Jersey, I was oblivious to its iconic nature. It was exciting to see the city through my brothers eyes, and for him to share his passion with me. Journalism is in Evans bones, appearing even before he knew he wanted to be a journalist. In 2016, he was already working as an assistant to an editor at the New York Times, on the path to pursuing his passion. In a years time, he would move to Moscow to become a reporter in Russia for the Moscow Times. I was so proud that he was able to realize his dreams.

March 29 marks one year since Evan was arrested in Russia while on assignment for the Journal and charged with espionage. He is the first American journalist to be arrested on spying charges in Russia since the Cold War. Of course, we know this is baseless. Evan, the Wall Street Journal, and the U.S. government all vehemently deny the accusation of espionage. Journalists are supposed to tell important stories, and instead, he has become one himself.

Evan was just doing his job as a reporter. It was his dream job, and he was accredited by the Russian foreign ministry to do it. I think of him now, sitting in Lefortovo prison in Moscow, unable to do what he loves. My heart aches for him, an eternally curious, adventurous, and driven person now cut off from the world, from friends and family, missing precious time.

For me, this will always be about my brother. But Ive grown to understand that Evans arrest means much more than that. His arrest was a shock to the global community of journalists and a blow to a free press. Without reporters like him on the ground in Russia, we know even less about a country whose foreign policy directly affects America and all Americans. And its not only Evans absence thats felt. Following his arrest, many other news organizations understandably left Russia, leaving an even larger void on the ground during an increasingly tenuous time.

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To me, Evan is my silly, loving younger brother who has always been a source of humor and encouragement. His voice is the voice I miss every day, teasing me the way younger brothers do, and showing me new perspectives on the world.

I still think about the last vacation we took together as a family before Evans arrest. We rented a house near the Jersey Shore to spend quality time together. My dad brought half the grocery store with him. He and Evan cooked up a storm that my mom, my husband, and I savored: grilled vegetables and meats, boiled potatoes with dill and plenty of garlic. Simple and so delicious. The next day it rained heavily in the afternoon. We all sat on the porch watching the rain together. We were quiet and meditative, savoring this moment together. Soon after, Evan was already beating Dad in a chess match, making us all laugh.

This is who Evan is. He lights up a room, he cares deeply about everyone he loves, and he brings people together. His absence from his friends and families lives is felt every second of every day.

The timing of all of this feels like a terrible joke. I had just gotten married in October 2022 and was so excited to see our family grow. Evans then-new job at the Journal in Moscow meant he could visit us more often thanks to additional vacation time. We were so overjoyed that we would see him more and, before his arrest, had been in the early stages of planning another family vacation at the Shore, sometime between all the weddings he wouldve attended that summer.

Instead, Evan missed all those milestones with friends and family. He spent his 32nd birthday in a Russian prison, and our family has looked at his empty seat during the holidays, wondering when we will see him again. Some days are harder than others, but every day feels like a piece of me is missing. I wonder what Evan is thinking and feeling. I picture him in his small cell and try to send my love to him from afar.

I examine photos and video footage from the courtroom and study them carefully to see what they reveal. I see my brother, with all his quirks and mannerisms that are so near and dear to me. I find his smile and sense of humor to be proof his spirit is still as strong as ever.

Evan is holding on, and hes remarkably strong. But even a resilient person like him cant maintain this state indefinitely. The urgency to get him back increases every day. We will continue to fight every single day to get him home as soon as possible.

His family needs him home, his friends need him home, and the world needs him back doing the work he so loves.

Danielle Gershkovich lives in Philadelphia with her husband. She works as an administrative assistant at the University of Pennsylvania.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will use the baseless charge of Ukrainian and Western complicity in the Moscow terrorist attack as an excuse for a new military mobilization in Ukraine, writes Trudy Rubin. Read more

Vladimir Putin and his intelligence agencies are already blaming Fridays hideous ISIS terror attack on a concert venue near Moscow on  you guessed it  Ukraine, the United States, and Great Britain.

Putin needs to distract attention from either the incredible failure of his security agencies to prevent the attack or from their possible complicity in the massacre at the Crocus City Hall music center.

Pardon my paranoia, but I lean toward the second explanation.

Either way, its clear Putin will take advantage of the terror attack. He will hype the baseless charge of Ukrainian and Western complicity as an excuse for a new military mobilization and increased industrial production for his war on Ukraine, and to justify the sacrifice to the Russian people.

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And Putin will be helped by the do-nothing, destructive, MAGA-driven minority in the U.S. House of Representatives, who were still blocking a vote on Ukraine aid as they took off for a two-week vacation on Friday.

 READ MORE: 4 ways the U.S. should help Ukraine right now | Trudy Rubin

This MAGA myopia feeds Putins obvious belief that he can exploit the ISIS attack at home and with propaganda overseas. So, its worth examining a bit of background behind the Russian security services bungling  or worse  of the terror attack.

ISIS took immediate responsibility for the assault that killed more than 130 people. U.S. intelligence specifically attributed it to an Afghanistan-based affiliate known as ISIS-K, which is known to despise Putins Russia for repressing Muslims in Central Asia and the Caucasus. Yet, the Kremlin rebuffed a U.S. intelligence alert issued March 7 that ISIS-K was planning an attack in Moscow in the coming days, and warned that large gatherings, including concert halls, should be avoided.

Putin called the warning a provocative effort to destabilize Russian society.

Perhaps this was just more evidence of the oft-displayed incompetence of Russias main FSB intelligence service (the successor to the Soviet KGB). When it comes to real work against terrorists, they dont do that, I was told by Natalia Gevorkyan, one of the first Russian journalists to write about the KGB after the collapse of the Soviet Union. They are tremendously useless at the moment they are needed.

Indeed, during two of the most famous Islamist terror attacks inside Russia, the security services not only failed to prevent them but were responsible for most of the casualties.

When terrorists from the North Caucasus burst into the Nord-Ost theater in Moscow in 2002 and took more than 700 audience members, players, and staff hostage, Russian special forces pumped toxic gas into the theater, killing most of the attacks 130 victims. Many initial survivors died when the special forces refused to give doctors the formula of the gas, so no antidote could be administered.

And when Chechen militants took more than 1,000 pupils, parents, and staff hostage at a school in the town of Beslan in 2004, Russian security forces stormed the school in a bungled rescue attempt in which 334 died, mostly children.

But the alleged terror attack that first comes to mind, after last weeks killings, is a series of apartment bombings in Russia in 1999. These were attributed by then-Prime Minister Putin to Chechens as an excuse to launch the brutal Second Chechen War, which eased his ascent to the presidency in 2000.

I will never forget the chill I felt when I visited an apartment building bomb site in Moscow in 1999 with a Russian friend who was paying tribute to the 119 innocent victims who had died there.

Subsequent and detailed investigations, both by courageous Russian journalists and a former FSB agent, ultimately revealed compelling evidence that the FSB had staged these bombings, presumably to help elect Putin. The Russian leader then went on to pulverize Chechen cities and villages with Russian bomb attacks, just as he is now doing to Ukraine.

Even if Fridays attack was not a preplanned false flag operation, it is hard to grasp why Russias intelligence services, given the U.S. warning, did not provide extra security at the concert venue  or why they let the carnage continue for more than an hour and permitted the terrorists to escape.

 READ MORE: Vladimir Putin killed Alexei Navalny. It is a stark warning to the West. | Trudy Rubin

Although four supposed culprits have been arrested, we will likely never know whether they were really the culprits or merely four hapless Tajik migrants conveniently picked up and tortured into confessions.

What we do know is that on March 22, the same day as the music venue attack, Putin issued an order for a new mobilization of 300,000 to seize Ukraines second-largest city of Kharkiv. And that on that day, the Kremlin spokesman said publicly for the first time that Russia was in a state of war in Ukraine, finally abandoning Putins fake claim of the past two years that it was only a special military operation.

We also know that on Tuesday, Russias FSB chief, Alexander Bortnikov, falsely told Russian TV that Ukraine and Western special services facilitated the attack by Islamist radicals.

The message is clear: While MAGA legislators block Ukraine aid, leaving Ukrainian troops and civilians short of defenses, Putin is using a deadly terror attack to justify ramping up his terrorist war on Ukrainian civilians. In a strange way, ISIS-K, Putin, MAGA maestro Donald Trump, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene are all linked in facilitating terrorist crimes in Ukraine.

House Speaker Mike Johnson can still break this chain by bringing a clean Ukraine aid bill to the floor. He can still help save Ukraine, with the aid of GOP legislators who continue to admire Ronald Reagan.

But will he and GOP realists have the guts to act, and to act in time?
No Labels Founding Chairman and former Sen. Joe Lieberman, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died Wednesday. Read more

HARTFORD, Conn.  Former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCains running mate eight years later, has died, according to a statement issued by his family.

Lieberman died in New York City on Wednesday due to complications from a fall, the statement said. He was 82.

The Democrat-turned-independent was never shy about veering from the party line.

Liebermans independent streak and especially his needling of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential contest rankled many Democrats, the party he aligned with in the Senate. Yet his support for gay rights, civil rights, abortion rights and environmental causes at times won him the praise of many liberals over the years.

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In an era of political carbon copies, Joe Lieberman was a singularity. One of one, said Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy, a Democrat. He fought and won for what he believed was right and for the state he adored.

Over the last decade, Lieberman helped lead No Labels, a centrist third-party movement that has said it will offer as-yet-unnamed candidates for president and vice president this year. Some groups aligned with Democrats oppose the effort, fearing it will help presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump win the White House.

Lieberman came tantalizingly close to winning the vice presidency in the contentious 2000 presidential contest that was decided by a 537-vote margin victory for George W. Bush in Florida after a drawn-out recount, legal challenges and a Supreme Court decision. He was the first Jewish candidate on a major partys presidential ticket and would have been the first Jewish vice president.

He was also the first national Democrat to publicly criticize President Bill Clinton for his extramarital affair with a White House intern.

Lieberman sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 but dropped out after a weak showing in the early primaries. Four years later, he was an independent who was nearly chosen to be McCains running mate. He and McCain were close pals who shared hawkish views on military and national security matters.

McCain was leaning strongly toward choosing Lieberman for the ticket as the 2008 GOP convention neared, but he chose Sarah Palin at the last minute after ferocious blowback from conservatives over Liebermans liberal record, according to Steve Schmidt, who managed McCains campaign.

Lieberman generated controversy in 1998 when he scolded Clinton, his friend of many years, for disgraceful behavior in an explosive speech on the Senate floor during the height of the scandal over his relationship with Monica Lewinsky. Yet Lieberman later voted against the impeachment of Clinton.

He defended his partisan switches as a matter of conscience, saying he always had the best interests of Connecticut voters at heart. Critics accused him of pursuing narrow self-interest and political expediency.

In announcing his retirement from the Senate in 2013, Lieberman acknowledged that he did not always fit comfortably into conventional political boxes and felt his first responsibility was to serve his constituents, state and country, not his political party. He had a tortured relationship with Democrats.

During his final Senate speech, Lieberman urged Congress to look beyond party lines and partisan rancor to break Washington gridlock.

It requires reaching across the aisle and finding partners from the opposite party, said Lieberman. That is what is desperately needed in Washington now.

Harry Reid, who served as Senate Democratic leader, once said that while he didnt always agree with the independent-minded Lieberman, he respected him.

Regardless of our differences, I have never doubted Joe Liebermans principles or his patriotism, Reid said. And I respect his independent streak, as it stems from strong convictions.

Privately, some Democrats were often less charitable about Liebermans forays across party lines, which they saw as disloyal. He bolted his party and turned independent after a 2006 Senate primary loss in Connecticut.

Liebermans strong support of the Iraq War hurt his statewide popularity. Democrats rejected Lieberman and handed the 2006 primary to a political newcomer and an anti-war candidate, Ned Lamont, who is now serving his second term as Connecticut governor. Lieberman went on to win reelection as an independent.

In a statement issued Wednesday expressing condolences, Lamont said he and Lieberman eventually became friends after the grueling race.

While the senator and I had our political differences, he was a man of integrity and conviction, so our debate about the Iraq War was serious, Lamont said in a statement. I believe we agreed to disagree from a position of principle.

When the race was over, we stayed in touch as friends in the best traditions of American democracy. He will be missed, he added.

Defying Democratic leaders and friends, Lieberman ran successfully for reelection as an independent and drew support from some Republican allies. Lieberman won praise from the White House and fundraising help from prominent Republicans, such as then-New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg, who himself later ran as an independent.

Lieberman made his Senate experience and congressional clout a strong selling point, saying hed fight hard for the states defense jobs and its fair share of federal largesse. The strategy paid off.

Lieberman won reelection to a fourth term, even though many of his Democratic allies and longtime friends, including former Sen. Chris Dodd, supported Lamont. Lieberman was candid about what he considered a betrayal by old pals such as Dodd, but the two men later reconciled.

Longtime friend and former chairman of the Connecticut Democratic Party, Nick Balletto said many rank-and-file Democrats were unhappy with Lieberman but credited the former senator for dedicating his life to public service and the state.

He was the most genuine, honest, straightforward, politician youd probably ever meet. What you saw is what you got, said Balletto. His issues were the issues of the people.

After his rebound reelection in 2006, Lieberman decided to caucus with Democrats in the Senate, who let him head a committee in return because they needed his vote to help keep control of the closely divided chamber. But it wasnt long until Lieberman was showing his independent streak and ruffling his Democratic caucus colleagues.

Despite the decision of Democrats to let him join their caucus as an independent, Lieberman was an enthusiastic backer of McCain in the 2008 presidential contest.

Liebermans speech at the 2008 GOP presidential nominating convention criticizing Obama, the Democratic presidential nominee, struck a deep nerve with many Democrats.

Lieberman cast Obama as a political show horse, a lightweight with a thin record of accomplishment in the Senate despite his soaring eloquence as a speaker.

In the Senate, during the 3 1/2 years that Sen. Obama has been a member, he has not reached across party lines to ... accomplish anything significant, nor has he been willing to take on powerful interest groups in the Democratic Party to get something done, Lieberman said at the convention.

Eloquence is no substitute for a record, he said.

Lieberman campaigned heartily across the country for McCain. Many Democrats considered it a betrayal to Obama and his former party colleagues.

Joe Lieberman has said things that are totally irresponsible when it comes to Barack Obama, House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of California said in a radio interview during the 2008 race.

After the election, there was speculation Senate Democrats might strip Lieberman of his chairmanship of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as payback. Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., chair of the Judiciary Committee, was among those who said Lieberman should lose his chairmanship. Leahy branded Liebermans attacks on Obama as beyond the pale.

But at Obamas urging, Senate Democrats decided not to punish Lieberman for supporting McCain and the GOP ticket. Obama was eager to strike a bipartisan tone for his presidency and giving Lieberman a pass helped reinforce that message.

Yet Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent and staunch liberal, called it a slap in the face for millions of Americans who backed Obama.

Lieberman was known in the Senate for his hawkish foreign policy views, his pro-defense bent and his strong support for environmental causes.

Five weeks after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, he became one of the first politicians to call for the ouster of Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein and later voted in favor of the military invasion of Iraq. His vocal support for the war would later help doom his candidacy in the 2006 Connecticut Democratic primary.

Lieberman tended to vote with Democrats on most issues and was a longtime supporter of abortion rights, a stance that would have proved problematic with conservatives had McCain chosen him as his running mate in 2008.

He played a key role in the legislation that created the Department of Homeland Security.

Lieberman grew up in Stamford, Connecticut, where his father ran a liquor store. Lieberman graduated from Yale University and Yale Law School in New Haven. As Connecticuts attorney general from 1983 to 1988, he was a strong consumer and environmental advocate. Lieberman vaulted into the Senate by defeating moderate Republican incumbent Lowell Weicker in 1988.

After leaving the Senate in 2013, Lieberman joined a New York City law firm. His funeral will be held Friday at Congregation Agudath Sholom in his hometown of Stamford. An additional memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, have four children.
In this December file photo, Adam Thiel, now the managing director, listens to then Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker speak during a press conference. Thiel is leading the city's strategy to establish "triage centers" for people in addiction. Read more

Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers administration could open its first triage center for people in addiction within weeks, a top official testified to City Council on Monday, setting an aggressive timeline for one of the mayors strategies to end open-air drug markets.

But the administration has yet to outline specifics about where the facilities would be located, who would operate them, how many there will be, and what services they would offer, with one lawmaker saying that Parkers funding request for the centers was akin to asking Council for a hundred million dollar blank check.

Council members peppered Parkers top aides with questions at a hearing on the city budget on Monday, the first time members of her administration testified about her $6.29 billion budget proposal that keeps tax rates flat while adding resources for law enforcement and other priorities.

The hearing laid the groundwork for the next several months of budget negotiations, and funding the triage centers could be a key issue, with members seemingly divided Tuesday. Council and the administration must come to an agreement by the time the current budget expires at the end of June.

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A half-dozen lawmakers centered their questions on Parkers plan to borrow $100 million to fund new triage and wellness facilities that would operate as intake centers for people with substance use disorder. The specifics of the plan took on new urgency Monday after Managing Director Adam K. Thiel said the first facility could open within weeks.

Thiel described the funding as seed money and said he anticipates additional support from the citys philanthropic community. He said that although Parkers administration has concentrated on curbing the drug market in the citys Kensington neighborhood  the epicenter of the citys opioid crisis  triage facilities could be located in neighborhoods across the city.

It starts with triage and bringing people in, making sure they have the services that they need, and then moving them through to medium-term help, care, treatment, and long-term housing and economic opportunity, Thiel said. What exactly does that look like? That is under development.

 READ MORE: Philly City Council members are pushing for a Kensington triage center for people who use drugs

Police Commissioner Kevin J. Bethel said the triage centers could serve as a home base for the departments diversion program, which offers rehabilitation options to people facing criminal charges for low-level crimes like drug possession and prostitution.

All too often we did not have a place to take someone. We make an arrest, they go through withdrawal, we take them to the hospital, cycle never ends, he said. Now we can treat the whole person.

Some lawmakers chided the administration for not offering enough specifics about its plan, with Councilmember Jeffery Young Jr. saying, There are no details. Others  including Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, who represents Kensington  said the administration didnt budget enough money to establish multiple facilities where people may need medical care.

And several progressive members expressed concern that the city would bring people in addiction to the facilities and force them to enter treatment to avoid criminal charges, a strategy that at-large Councilmember Kendra Brooks said doesnt work.

She cited studies that show people forced into treatment before they are ready experience higher rates of relapse and overdose.

I know people are ... concerned about some of the rhetoric surrounding the centers, said Brooks, of the Working Families Party. And I share their concerns.

That prompted pushback from at-large Councilmember Jim Harrity, who lives in Kensington and speaks openly about recovering from alcohol addiction. He said many who are in recovery were forced there one way or another, whether it was through our families, through a doctor, or through the court system.

They are a threat to themselves and to others, so we have a moral responsibility to do whatever we can to try to save those peoples lives, he said. And reality is some of us dont go willingly.

Brooks later responded, saying the studies she cited werent a Kendra Brooks thing, its a public health science thing.

I will have my staff send you over their data, she told Harrity. Because I did not make it up.
A rendering of what Midwood's new 12th Street tower will look like when completed. Read more

Center Citys newest apartment tower at 210 South 12th St. is set to begin leasing later this spring, adding 376 high-end units to the market.

Philadelphia has seen a building boom in recent years, and many prominent developers believe there may be a multifamily housing glut  meaning there are more new units than there is demand for them at the prices being charged.

But the developer behind the 31-story tower, New York-based Midwood Investment & Development, believes that in this corner of Center City they dont have to worry about competition.

You can look at the market in totality and yes, theres a record number of units coming online, said John Usdan, CEO of Midwood. But we look at the real estate business in terms of a specific block, a specific neighborhood.

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Usdan said that much of the new construction in the city is taking place north of Center City, in the neighborhoods around the Art Museum, Northern Liberties, Fishtown, and other Delaware River-adjacent areas. South Philadelphia is also seeing a lot of construction, he said, but not downtown  and especially not close to East Market Street.

We think the customer who wants to live in our building is a different customer than certainly wants to live in South Philly, or Northern Liberties, said Usdan.

The great majority of the units in Midwoods building are studios and one-bedrooms, many of which have in-home offices. There are also 69 two-bedroom units and five three-bedroom units. Rents start at $1,675 for a studio or $3,579 for two bedrooms.

Were not geared to a lot of families, although the building is amenitized so that if you have a family it will be a wonderful place to live, said Usdan. It will be [for] somebody who is in medicine or biotech or finance or legal accounting, the kinds of jobs that have been created in Center City that tend to be higher paying.

The building is largely completed, and Midwood plans for leasing to begin this spring, and the first occupants to move in this summer. The final touches will be completed in the fall.

The new tower will have 17,000 square feet of retail space, 90 underground parking spaces (all of which have electric vehicle charging), and a suite of amenities that include an outdoor pool, a game room, and a pet spa.

Usdan notes that the company utilized both the affordable-housing-density bonus and a zoning bonus that allowed for more density in exchange for a public art installation, which will be added to the ground floor of the building.

Midwoods tower arose where the old 12th Street Gym used to be, and the companys plans proved controversial pre-pandemic when it became clear they would tear down the iconic Gayborhood gym with its mural of Philadelphia LGBTQ activist Gloria Casarez.

Originally, mural artist Michelle Angela Ortiz and Midwood were in talks to create a new version of the mural, or another related work, but when the company painted over the old mural prior to demolishing the building she protested and pulled out of the project.

The original mural was not relocated or replicated. Usdan said that the company is selecting an artist now for the new tower, and that they are trying to work with a Philadelphia resident for the fresh artwork.

Jonathan Broh of the Washington Square West Civic Association said that when Midwoods tower was going through its approval processes, some neighborhood residents were concerned by its scale and by the mural controversy.

But Broh says Midwoods project is of a piece with other developments in the area, such as National Real Estate Developments apartment complex on East Market, the Goldenberg Groups tower at 1213 Walnut St., or Pearl Properties proposal on Jewelers Row.

Theres kind of a high-rise district forming around us, said Broh, who is head of the zoning committee for the civic group. For myself, I think its exciting to get additional density, additional residents in the area. But I understand theres some folks who like the quaintness of the townhome scale of Washington Square West.

Midwood has been in the Philadelphia market since the late 1990s, when it purchased a clutch of retail properties on Walnut and Chestnut Streets. It owns some other smaller residential buildings in the city, but 210 South 12th St. is its first major Philadelphia residential project.

Before the pandemic the company also proposed a large apartment building for the Italian Market, at Ninth Street and Washington Avenue, where Anastasis Seafood used to be. But after demolishing the building, the company hasnt made any further progress.

Usdan declined to comment on the stalled project, saying only that the company has no update at the moment.
TMK is proud to be one of the largest insurers operating in the specialist Lloyd's market in Asia Pacific and we have ambitious plans to grow our book. Our underwriters' expertise extends across numerous property classes, including providing reinsurance for industries such as government and real estate, manufacturing, and food and beverage. Our capabilities will be bolstered with the addition of Jonathan and with Si Min's enhanced focus, he said.
David Clare, Trisuras president & CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition calling it an exciting step for the company and its surety capabilities. He highlighted the significance of expanding FFACs licenses and the potential for Trisura to tap into a wider segment of the surety market through this Treasury-listed entity.
ATR has also criticized the alignment of these rules with the international Basel III Endgame banking regulations, which they argue were established by unelected officials and should not influence US state-regulated insurance entities.

ATR also claims that unions and the Biden Administration are influencing these regulations to undermine DC plans and promote defined benefit plans, which they argue are often used to further left-wing political agendas through shareholder activism.

The statement also mentions the efforts of the hospitality union UNITE HERE against annuity products backed by private equity, as well as legal actions by unions against public companies shifting to DC plans. According to ATR, these movements stem from a desire to maintain control over corporate policies through environmental, social, and governance (ESG) agendas associated with defined benefit plans.

ATR warns that these regulatory changes will force annuity providers to hold more cash, limiting investment options for DC plans and potentially harming American workers retirement savings. It urges the NAIC to adhere to due process principles similar to the Administrative Procedure Act, and not to proceed without substantial evidence that increased capital charges would benefit the industry or its clients.

What is Americans For Tax Reform?

Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) is a politically conservative US advocacy group dedicated to reducing the size of government and opposing higher taxes at both the federal and state levels. Founded in 1985 by Grover Norquist at the request of President Ronald Reagan, ATR is best known for urging politicians to sign the Taxpayer Protection Pledge, a commitment not to increase taxes.

Over the years, ATR has been active in a variety of tax-related issues, including opposition to income tax increases, advocating for simpler tax codes, and reducing government spending. The organization also plays a significant role in tax reform debates, providing analysis and arguments against tax hikes and for tax reductions. Beyond taxation, ATR engages in broader economic issues and regulatory matters, emphasizing the principles of free market and limited government.

ATRs influence extends into numerous policy areas, including healthcare, energy, and technology, where it advocates for policies that promote economic freedom and individual liberty. Its activities range from lobbying and legislative analysis to organizing grassroots campaigns and educating the public and policymakers on fiscal policies.

Over the years, investigations and reports by media and watchdog groups have suggested that ATRs funding has included contributions from the tobacco industry, the alcohol industry, and other business interests that benefit from the groups tax policy positions. Additionally, ATR has been linked to broader networks of conservative donors and organizations, such as those associated with the Koch brothers, who are known for supporting libertarian and conservative causes in the United States.

Its important to note that the specifics of ATRs funding, including the identities of its donors and the exact amounts contributed, remain largely confidential due to the organizations status and the current regulations governing such entities in the US.

Have something to say about this story? Let us know in the comments below.
The specialist insurer said that this new policy was designed to combat cyber threats, including malware, viruses, and ransomware attacks, along with solutions for identity recovery irrespective of whether the breach originates from the vehicle. The policy extends to cover costs associated with towing, labor, and alternative transportation while the vehicles systems are being repaired.
Pharmacy chain Rite Aid has reached a settlement with its lenders, the U.S. Department of Justice, and drug supplier McKesson Corp., clearing a path for Rite Aid to complete its bankruptcy case by late April, a company lawyer said Tuesday.

We have reached an agreement on all key points with all key economic stakeholders, Rite Aid attorney Aparna Yenamandra said at a bankruptcy court hearing in Trenton, New Jersey. Yenamandra did not provide details about the settlement, saying that some issues needed to be worked out before it can be presented in court.

The deal is not opposed by creditors who have sued Rite Aid over its sale of opioid medications, Yenamandra said. Before it filed for bankruptcy, Rite Aid faced over 1,600 lawsuits alleging that pharmacy chain ignored red flags and illegally filled prescriptions for addictive opioid medication.

Rite Aid Opioid Settlement: Victims Will Likely Get No Payment

Rite Aids junior bondholders raised a note of caution during the hearing, saying that the remaining issues to be worked out are more than just a technicality.

This is going to take some real work, said Andrew Rosenberg, an attorney for bondholders, including Brigade Capital Management, HG Vora Capital Management, and J.P. Morgan Investment Management.

Rite Aids lawyers said they will work to resolve concerns with the deal by Thursday.

Rite Aid Files for Bankruptcy Amid Rising Debt, Opioid Litigation

The time has come to reach a resolution, and that is exactly what everyone is going to do in the next 48 hours, Rite Aid attorney Joshua Sussberg said at the hearing.

Rite Aid will return to court on Thursday, when it will ask U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Michael Kaplan to allow the company to begin gathering votes for its bankruptcy plan. Kaplan said he is very much intrigued to hear more details about the settlement at the upcoming court hearing.

If Rite Aid can begin the voting process this week, it should be able to get final court approval of its bankruptcy restructuring by April 22, Yenamandra said.

Rite Aid filed for bankruptcy in October, seeking to address its high debt, shut down underperforming retail locations, and sell off non-core business units. Rite Aid received bankruptcy court approval to sell its pharmacy benefit company, Elixir, in January.

(Reporting by Dietrich Knauth, Editing by Nick Zieminski, Chizu Nomiyama and Aurora Ellis)
Two Iowa men were sentenced this month in connection with workers compensation fraud.

Trey Wysocki, age 40, of New Virginia was sentenced on March 11, 2024, after pleading guilty to one count of Insurance Fraud  Presenting False Information (Class D Felony). Kristopher Stapes, age 39, of St. Charles was sentenced on March 19, 2024, after pleading guilty to one count of Accessory After the Fact (Simple Misdemeanor). Both men were sentenced following an investigation by the Iowa Insurance Divisions Fraud Bureau.

The investigation began in February 2023, after the Iowa Insurance Divisions Fraud Bureau received information indicating that Wysocki and Stapes provided false information to an insurer in support of a workers compensation claim and received monetary benefits to which Wysocki would not otherwise have been entitled to.

The investigation determined that Wysocki was employed by Stapes when he cut his hand with a power saw while on the job. Wysocki submitted a workers compensation claim, stating that he was unable to work due to a severe injury to his hand. The insurance company approved Wysocki to receive workers compensation benefits for the duration of time that he would be off work due to injury.

The investigation found that Wysocki continued working for Stapes while also collecting workers compensation benefits. Wysocki received $1,055 in benefit payments he otherwise would have not been entitled to. Wysocki was arrested on September 6, 2023 and Stapes was arrested on September 7, 2023.

Wysocki received a deferred sentence and was placed on probation for a period of two years. Wysocki was also ordered to pay a civil penalty of $1,025. Stapes was ordered to pay a fine of $105 as well as restitution.

Source: Iowa Insurance Division

Topics Fraud Workers' Compensation Numbers Iowa
The FBI has told passengers on the Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max that lost a door-plug panel in midflight that they might be victims of a crime.

Im contacting you because we have identified you as a possible victim of a crime, a victim specialist from the federal agencys Seattle office wrote in the letters, which passengers received last week. This case is currently under investigation by the FBI.

The plane was flying 16,000 feet (4,800 meters) over Oregon on Jan. 5 when the panel blew out, leaving a gaping hole in the side. The rapid loss of cabin pressure caused oxygen masks to drop from the ceiling, and suction as air rushed from the hole exerted force on people inside the plane.

Pilots were able to land safely in Portland, Oregon, and none of the 171 passengers and six crew members were seriously injured. Investigators say it appears that four bolts used to help secure the panel were missing after the plane was worked on at a Boeing factory in Renton, Washington.

Published reports and government officials have said the U.S. Justice Department has opened a criminal investigation into whether the panel blowout violated terms of a 2021 settlement that let Boeing avoid prosecution for allegedly misleading regulators who certified the 737 Max.

The settlement followed two crashes of Boeing Max jets in 2018 and 2019 that killed a total of 346 people.

Mark Lindquist, a lawyer representing some of the passengers on the Alaska Airlines flight in a lawsuit against Boeing, shared the FBI letter with The Associated Press. The notice gave recipients an email address, a phone number, a case number and a personal identification number so they can share questions and concerns.

A criminal investigation can be a lengthy undertaking, and, for several reasons, we cannot tell you about its progress at this time. A victim of a federal crime is entitled to receive certain services, the letter stated.

The FBI letter did not name Boeing, which declined to comment Friday. Alaska Airlines said, We are fully cooperating and do not believe we are a target of the investigation.

The National Transportation Safety Board, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Justice Department are conducting separate investigations of Boeing.

Lindquist said he and his clients welcome the Justice Departments investigation.

We want accountability, answers, and safer planes, he said. The DOJ and the FBI bring significant leverage and resources that Im confident will help our case and help the flying public as well.

The decision to designate the Alaska passengers as potential crime victims is a turnaround for the Justice Department, which a few years ago argued that families of passengers who died in the Max crashes did not meet the legal definition of crime victims.

A federal judge in Texas, however, ruled that the families did meet the standard. He said that under federal law, the Justice Department should have told them about secret negotiations with Boeing that produced the 2021 settlement.

Robert Clifford, a Chicago lawyer representing some of those families, said his clients are grateful that the Justice Department is following a different policy with the Alaska passengers.

They are thankful that it is happening, Clifford said. To be clear: They are not thanking DOJ for doing the right thing. They were forced to do the right thing.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Fraud Aviation Alaska
Editors note: Captive insurance programs have blossomed in a number of Southern states in recent years, including Tennessee and North Carolina. But new questions have been raised about whether some micro-captives are used as tax shelters, and about the IRS asserting its control over part of the insurance business, after some recent court decisions. Van Carlson is CEO of SRA 831(b) Admin, a risk management adviser for small businesses.

A pair of federal Tax Court decisions at the start of 2024 are painting a concerning picture that the IRS is abusing its authority and attempting to become a quasi-federal governing agency over the insurance industry. The IRS secured a pair of victories against a form of self-insurance for small businesses known as micro-captive insurance. The casesKeating v. Commissioner and Swift v. Commissionerused biased fact patterns to support the unfounded principle that all micro-captives are tax shelters or tax schemes.

Neither decision provided guidance nor clarification of how honest micro-captive owners should structure their captive arrangements to remain compliant with IRS regulations. Without such guidance, small to mid-size business owners are subject to open scrutiny at the whim of a federal agency attempting to seize regulatory control of an industry already regulated at the state level.

These victories are contrary to why the 831(b) tax code was written. Similar to what we are seeing today, this code was originally written during a time in which Americans were saddled by a hardened insurance market. Originally passed in the 1980s, Section 831(b) was designed to empower small to mid-sized insurance companies by excluding part of their income from taxation, allowing them to better compete with larger insurance providers and provide a vehicle of self-insurance against risks that may not be covered by insurance companies.

The 2015 Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act states that companies are eligible for this type of risk mitigation under Section 831(b) of the tax code when the owner of an insured business holds an interest in the insurer no greater than their interest in the business.

In January, IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel disclosed that nearly 1,100 micro-captives are under IRS investigation. Business owners and plan administrators who are caught up in these audits are then sifted through, with the IRS seeking only cases in which wins are virtually guaranteed. Instead of providing a conclusive determination for other taxpayers who can legitimately benefit from using an 831(b), the IRS uses its ambiguous scrutiny as a deterrent from using these plans, which in some cases can provide a lifeline to small to mid-size businesses.

The IRS has made clear its dislike of micro-captives and is working to eliminate them through its overreach of power and intimidation. This gross misuse by a bureaucratic agency directly contradicts congressional support for the existence of micro-captive insurance. To put it bluntly, the IRS is undermining the laws passed by our nations elected representatives and wants to put insurance regulation in the hands of the federal government.

In December, multiple members of the U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means Committee wrote to Werfel to express their disdain about the IRSs treatment of micro-captives. The members of Congress called for the IRS to work with the insurance industry to develop a mutually agreeable path forward for small to mid-size businesses to utilize this section of the tax code without fear of retribution from the IRS.

The decision in Keating is concerning. In fact, the judge alluded to how the courts believed insurance companies should be regulated.

The McCarran-Ferguson Act of 1945 provides the framework for how the insurance industry is regulated in the U.S. the federal government can define insurance for federal tax purposes but is prohibited from overreaching into the regulation of insurance, which is instead left to the individual states.

Without action from Congress, or the IRS backing off its assault on our industry, the overreach of power toward micro-captive owners will likely continue, along with its efforts to eventually obtain federal oversight over other parts of the insurance business. The question of overreach by the IRS isnt a question of if it will stop, but rather a question of when and how. The ripple effects will have far greater implications on the insurance industry as a whole than anything else that may come of this IRS case.

Van Carlson is founder and CEO of SRA 831(b) Admin. He has more than 25 years of experience in the risk management industry and started his career with Farmers Insurance Group.
The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says that a second inspection of Dean Sausage Co. Inc. in Ayyalia, Alabama found similar workplace safety hazards as identified in a 2022 inspection, prompting the agency to propose $116,153 in penalties.

OSHA said the latest inspection found seven repeat violations for exposing employees to hazards by failing to use machine-specific lockout/tagout procedures and by not maintaining machine guarding.

In addition, according to OSHA, Dean Sausage failed to maintain clear exits, and to implement a written hazard communication program, including worker training, for those working with hazardous chemicals. The employer also did not maintain required safety data sheets for the materials, the agency alleges.

OSHA also cited the company with two serious violations for lacking lockout/tagout procedures to protect employees before they cleared a machines bread cutter. Lockouttagout procedures are meant to assure that equipment is properly shut off and wont restart until after maintenance or repair work is completed.

OSHA said that in its initial 2022 inspection, it cited Dean Sausage Co. for a total of 14 violations and assessed the company with more than $37,000 in proposed penalties.

Dean Sausage Co. Inc. employs 85 workers at its Attalla facility. The company produces meat products, including sausage and frozen biscuit sandwiches distributed to retailers throughout the southern U.S.

OSHA has the right to contest the allegations and penalties.

In another Alabama case, OSHA investigated a Cullman manufacturing plant after a 38-year-old worker was killed after getting caught inside a molding machine, a fatality that OSHA says the employer could have prevented by following established safety rules.

OSHA said it found that a Cullman Casting Corp. production supervisor attempted to adjust a plastic film on a mold machine  meant to produce forklift counterweights  when the machine cycled, pinning the worker between the moving components inside. OSHA investigators determined that the employer failed to de-energize and lockout the automated molding machine while workers were performing maintenance and cleaning.

Topics Workers' Compensation Commercial Lines Business Insurance
Hawaiis attorney general blamed a delay of the release of a key report into a deadly Maui wildfire on county agencies that forced investigators to issue subpoenas.

The first phase of an independent investigation into the Aug. 8 fire that killed at least 101 people and destroyed much of historic Lahaina was expected to be released this month. It will instead be released on April 17.

The Fire Safety Research Institute was selected to provide a scientific analysis of the fire and recommendations. The firm so far has invoiced the state nearly $1.4 million, according to the attorney generals office.

Its team encountered unexpected delays when gathering the critical facts for review, which had a direct impact on the rescheduled Phase One report release date, Attorney General Anne E. Lopezs office said in a statement Monday.

Investigators initially reached out directly for information but the initial responses from the county were often slow and yielded less information than expected, Toni Schwartz, public information officer for the attorney generals office, said in a follow-up email to The Associated Press.

The purpose of this investigation is to make sure that this tragedy never happens again, period, she wrote.

Lopezs office in November announced having to issue three subpoenas on the Maui Emergency Management Agency, the County of Maui Department of Public Works and the County of Maui Department of Water Supply seeking documents relevant to the investigation.

The County of Maui stated that subpoenas would be required for all further information, including documents and interviews with county personnel, Lopezs office said. As a result, the Department has needed to serve upon County of Maui agencies and officials, eight additional subpoenas for documents and 53 additional subpoenas for interviews, to date.

Investigators now have the information needed to develop a timeline and analyze what happened, Schwartz said.

Maui County officials didnt immediately return a message from AP seeking comment on the delay.

The first phase of the report will focus on the first 24 to 72 hours of what became the deadliest wildfire in the U.S. in more than a century and its aftermath, Lopez said.

We all want fast answers, but it is critical that this investigation be thorough and accurate, Lopez said. An analysis of this magnitude cannot be rushed, and we must allow for the time needed to make sure this investigation, based on science, is done correctly.

Meanwhile, numerous lawsuits over the fire were sent back to state court from U.S. district court. According to lawyers involved, that could facilitate reaching settlement agreements sooner.

One of those attorneys, James Bickerton, said hes not confident the state can conduct a truly independent probe.

The state shares in the fault and is being sued in these cases, he said. We feel the only real independent investigation thats going to get is done is by their plaintiffs and their counsel.

More than seven months after the fire, thousands of people are still staying in hotels while they look for places to rent and wait for longer-term housing options.

In an emotional speech Friday, Maui Mayor Richard Bissen said he is prioritizing housing, evaluating evacuation routes and hiring more firefighters as the community recovers.

Some of those who died in the fire were caught in traffic jams trying to leave Lahaina. Like many Hawaii towns, it sits sandwiched between the ocean and the mountains and has limited roads in and out.

AP journalist Audrey McAvoy contributed to this report.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Agencies Wildfire Hawaii
Thousands of Southern California hospitality workers overwhelmingly ratified a new contract with 34 hotels after repeated strikes since the summer, their union announced.

Workers won higher pay, increased employer contributions to pensions, and fair workload guarantees among other provisions of a contract that received 98% approval, Unite Here Local 11 said in a summary of highlights of the pact which runs until Jan. 15, 2028. The union has yet to reach settlements with 30 other hotels.

Room attendants, cooks and other non-tipped workers will receive wage hikes of $10 an hour over the term of the contract, representing a 40% to 50% increase, the union said. Half of the increase will come in the first year.

Room attendants at most hotels will earn $35 an hour by July 2027 and top cooks will earn $41 an hour, the union said. Tipped workers will see such improvements as double-time pay for holidays, vacation, sick days and increased shares of service charges. Automatic 20% gratuities at full-service restaurants will be 100% shared by staff.

The union also stressed that the contract maintains health insurance in which workers pay no more than $20 monthly for full family coverage.

We have won a life-changing contract that transforms hotel jobs from low-wage service work to middle-class professional positions, Kurt Petersen, co-president of Local 11, told workers at a rally outside a downtown Los Angeles hotel.

The coalition of hotels involved in talks with the union welcomed the deal.

The ratification votes are a long time coming. Were glad that hotel employees who have been waiting months now can enjoy the benefits of new contracts, including increased compensation, and continue the great work they do for our guests and our communities, said Pete Hillan, a spokesperson for the California Hotel & Lodging Association.

Characterizing their demands as a fight for wages that will allow members to live in the cities where they work, more than 10,000 employees in greater Los Angeles began rolling strikes at 52 hotels in July 2023. Workers repeatedly went on strike, picketed and later returned to work. The union represents 15,000 workers but staff at some hotels have not engaged in strikes.

The union scored a major achievement just before the wave of strikes when a tentative agreement was reached with its biggest employer, the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in downtown Los Angeles, which has more than 600 union workers. Other hotels gradually came to terms with the strike actions.

Petersen also pointed out that the new contract expires just months before the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Were demanding a new deal for the Olympics that includes family-sustaining jobs and affordable housing for workers. And let me say, if they do not give us that new deal, are we ready to do what it takes? he said to cheers from workers.

Associated Press writer Christopher Weber in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics California
Family businesses face distinct internal challenges to their success and longevity when family and work dynamics combine.

The DCU National Centre for Family Business marked its 10th anniversary with the launch last November of an impact report identifying key areas of importance to the sector over the next five years, including succession intentions, sustainability focus, digitalisation and well-being.

Recognised nationally and internationally as a centre of excellence in research, education and critical engagement with family businesses and their owners, the Centre has educated over 5,600 undergraduate students on its Learning Innovation for Life (LIFE) & New Enterprise Development (NED) programmes, and has delivered family business Executive Education programmes, webinars, podcasts and annual conferences with over 3,000 attendees.

Ten years ago, we founded a centre for family business research in Ireland, and it is wonderful to have an opportunity to reflect on our success in this 10 year anniversary report, said Dr Eric Clinton, director of the NCFB.

Our vision then is a reality now: the NCFB is achieving national and international recognition for excellence in research, education and engagement.

Dublin City University and Irish Family Businesses are kindred spirits, added Prof Daire Keogh, President of Dublin City University: Our shared mission to put enterprise at the heart of what we value has helped us adapt, survive and even thrive when faced with stark realities, especially in this past decade.

Some 64% of all businesses in Ireland can be classified as a family business, employing over 938,000 people.

Global trends inform that almost 30% of founder, 1st generation family businesses grow to 2nd generation, reducing to 12% from 2nd to 3rd generation while 4% succeed from 3rd to 4th generation and onwards.

John Brennan, Head of Retail SME, AIB Retail, said: Our longstanding sponsorship with DCU NCFB since 2014, aligns with our position as supporters of local small businesses, providing us with an excellent opportunity to increase our level of engagement with an important grouping of SMEs.

It also allows us to understand family businesses and the unique challenges that they may face. We continue to work with DCU to provide a platform to support the professionalisation and growth of family businesses in Ireland as well as educating the current and next generations about the challenges to and opportunities for the family business owner.

Dr Clinton highlighted its PhD programme, fostering future thought-leaders in the family business field.

Dr Clinton said: Our educational offerings, including undergraduate and executive levels, provide current and next-generation family business members with the knowledge and tools required to successfully implement governance structures, navigate succession and enhance competitive success across generations.

We continually engage in a knowledge dialogue with industry partners through high-impact service and outreach activities, including workshops, webinars, podcasts, and conferences, in order to increase awareness of the unique nature of family businesses.

Given their prominence, Irish family businesses have a central role to play in the success of the Irish economy.

The reality is that Irish economic stability depends on family business success, and in a complex world, research-led insights are necessary to help family businesses address their unique circumstances and thrive. The profound achievements of the NCFB outlined in this 10-year anniversary report will no doubt set the pace for what promises to be a highly productive next 10 years.
Scientists have found evidence of bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease in 4,000-year-old human molars.

Trapped within the dental remains that were unearthed from a limestone cave in County Limerick, the researchers found an unprecedented quantity of the DNA of streptococcus mutans, a type of bacteria in the human mouth responsible for cavities.

The teeth are believed to have belonged to a man from the Bronze Age period.

The team said it had also found other types of microbes associated with gum disease, including Tannerella forsythia.

Based on their analysis, the scientists were able to reconstruct the genomes, the complete set of genetic material, of the ancient bacteria.

The researchers said their work, published in the journal Molecular Biology and Evolution, helps shed insight into how the human diet evolved across centuries, particularly in relation to sugar consumption.

They also said it is exceptionally rare to find S. mutans in ancient tooth samples as this bacteria produces acids that cause tooth decay but also degrades DNA.

The researchers said the conditions of the cave at Killuragh, which is cool, dry, and alkaline, may have helped in the exceptional preservation of the S. mutans DNA.

Lara Cassidy, an assistant professor at Trinity College Dublin, said: We were very surprised to see such a large abundance of mutans in this 4,000-year-old tooth.

Killuragh Cave in County Limerick, Ireland (Sam Moore and Marion Dowd/Molecular Biology and Evolution)

It is a remarkably rare find and suggests this man was at high risk of developing cavities right before his death.

However, the researchers believe that the high abundance of S. mutans DNA in the root of one teeth could also potentially indicate an imbalance or disruption in the microbial community in the mouth.

They said that based on their DNA analysis, both bacteria have changed dramatically from the Bronze Age to today, but added that humanitys love of sugar in the recent years may have had an inordinate impact on their evolution.

S. mutans is able to metabolise sugars from the foods trapped in the teeth to produce acids, allowing this bacteria to thrive, giving it an advantage over other similar types of bacteria, the researchers added.

Prof Cassidy said: S. mutans is very adept at swapping genetic material across strains.

This allows an advantageous innovation to be spread across mutans lineages, rather than one lineage becoming dominant and replacing all others.

The team said that archaeologists have observed an uptick in dental cavities in skeletal remains when humans began to adopt cereal agriculture, but tooth decay becomes much more common in the Early Modern period, beginning about 1500 AD.
Stormonts leaders have expressed hope that Northern Ireland will be belatedly added to a Westminster law aimed at quashing the wrongful convictions of subpostmasters caught up in the Horizon IT scandal.

First Minister Michelle ONeill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly were commenting after meeting with Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake in London on Tuesday.

Executive ministers had previously expressed disappointment that the UK government had not widened its draft Bill to include Northern Ireland.

As it stands, the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill will exonerate those convicted in England and Wales on the basis of the faulty Horizon accounting software.

Post Office minister Kevin Hollinrake met with Stormont leaders on Tuesday (PA)

Northern Ireland and Scotland were excluded from the initial Bill, with the government having pledged to work with those devolved administrations to find ways for them to expunge wrongful convictions.

More than 700 subpostmasters in the UK were prosecuted by the Post Office and handed criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 as Fujitsus faulty Horizon IT system made it appear as though money was missing at their branches.

There are 26 affected subpostmasters in Northern Ireland.

Ms ONeill and Ms Little-Pengelly struck a positive note following the meeting with Mr Hollinrake. They met the minister after attending the East-West Council in London on Tuesday.

We have 26 subpostmasters who are caught up in this situation who have waited far too long for justice, who have waited far too long for compensation, and we have been consistently making the case that they need to be included in the legislation, said Ms ONeill.

I think we came away with a very positive feeling in terms of what can be done here, but theres a bit more to do.

"Were going to follow up on the meeting yesterday and were hopeful, although not to give false hope, were hopeful that perhaps this is something that we can actually find a solution to.

On the prospect of the Bill being amended to include Northern Ireland, Ms ONeill added: We hope that thats going to happen.

"I think were quite positive by the conversation that we had yesterday, but again, conscious not to give false hope, but we feel that with a continued little more bit of pushing that perhaps we can get to the right space in this.

Fujitsu has apologised to postmasters wrongfully convicted due to flaws in its Horizon IT software (AP)

Ms Little-Pengelly raised the prospect of a positive development within days.

This is an issue that we have prioritised, she said.

I know that our members of our Parliament as well over in London have been meeting and have been lobbying very hard on this issue and I think thats been really helpful.

Weve had a number of engagements now, with the Secretary of State (Chris Heaton Harris) and with the relevant minister. Thats why we did prioritise meeting minister Hollinrake yesterday after the East-West Council meeting, because we wanted to emphasise in person how important this is to us, but particularly to those 26 people that are caught up in this.

We want those people to get justice as quickly as others across the United Kingdom. And that can only be done by the inclusion in this legislation.

And thats what were pushing for. But, as the First Minister has indicated, we are very positive at this stage that things are moving in the right direction. We want that commitment from the minister and we will continue to push for that in hope of getting that in the next number of days.

She added: The UK government is very clear where we stand on this, weve been absolutely determined, thats why we had the face-to-face meeting yesterday to emphasise that.

Weve been championing this issue on behalf of those 26 postmasters. And, of course, this can be done. We are fully confident that this can be done in terms of a legislative change.

We want that commitment from the minister, and well keep pushing that in hope of getting that commitment in the next number of days.

The ministers were speaking to the media on the issue during a visit to Lough Neagh on Wednesday.
The president of the Technological University of Dublin is to step down amid a controversy over a multimillion-euro funding deficit incurred by the institution.

Professor David FitzPatrick told staff on Wednesday that the time had come for new energy to take the reins.

He said he would be resigning with effect from the end of May to take up a post as provost and chief executive of the University of Nottingham Malaysia, thus furthering a long-held ambition to live and work abroad in an international education setting.

However, in the time before I stand down, Im committed to ensuring that we develop a financial recovery plan that will demonstrate a sound financial footing, he said.

TU Dublin was criticised last month by the Higher Education Authority which said it had serious concerns over the apparent lack of urgency, responsiveness and conduct of the universitys governing body in terms of addressing its finances.

The institution, which receives more than 130m in State-funding annually, is currently saddled with a financial deficit of nearly 9m.

Meanwhile, a t University of Limerick, controversy surrounds the universitys overpayment of more than 5m for 20 houses to be used as student accommodation at Rhebogue, close to its main campus in 2022.

The universitys chancellor Brigid Laffan, who was first appointed last November, will address the entire staff body on Thursday morning ahead of a meeting of the institutions governing authority.

That meeting has been called to discuss the results of a review it had commissioned regarding the Rhebogue transaction.
Armed gardai rushed to an apartment complex in Ballinhassig last Christmas following a report of one resident smashing down the door of another resident with a hammer.

Paul OCallaghan of An Bruach. Halfway, Ballinhassig, County Cork, appeared on Tuesday at Cork District Court facing a criminal damage charge.

Judge Mary Dorgan accepted jurisdiction to deal with the case after hearing an outline of the alleged evidence against the accused.

Sergeant John Kelleher said: On December 23, 2023, gardai received a call from control of a man breaking down the door of an apartment with a hammer. He went back to his apartment which is on the top floor of the complex.

Gardai from the armed support unit arrived at the scene and the accused had to be subdued and handcuffed.

Frank Buttimer solicitor represented Paul OCallaghan and said: There will be a plea of guilty to the charge. On the application of Sergeant John Kelleher, Judge Mary Dorgan put the case back to April 22 for a victim impact statement.

Judge Dorgan asked how much damage was done to the door of the other person in the apartment complex. Mr Buttimer said the amount of the damage was 400 to 500 and he said that the accused would gather compensation for the owner of the apartment.

The case against the 41-year-old was adjourned until April 22 at Cork District Court by Judge Mary Dorgan.
Ireland is preparing to intervene in South Africas genocide case against Israel at the top court in the United Nations.

Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin said that after examining whether Ireland could intervene, he had been briefed that there is a basis for an intervention.

South Africa has taken a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing it of a genocide in Gaza.

According to local health authorities, more than 30,000 people have been killed and a further 70,000 injured in the Gaza Strip since the start of Israels military offensive in the Palestinian enclave.

The UN said that a quarter of the regions 2.3 million population faces starvation and around 80% have fled their homes.

The offensive was launched after a Hamas attack in southern Israel that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and saw around 250 hostages taken, some of whom are still held captive.

An interim ruling by the ICJ ordered Israel to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza but stopped short of ordering a ceasefire.

It could be years before the case reaches final judgment.

Speaking on Wednesday, Mr Martin said he has given legal staff in his department direction to pursue a legal intervention into the South African case at the ICJ.

He said that he requested that very serious legal work be done as the tests that are applied under the Genocide Convention are very narrow and have a very high threshold.

He said the issue would be brought back to Government for a more formal decision when South Africa files its case and when further legal work is done.

I had asked my legal staff to do preliminary legal work, last week I was briefed by my legal team in that respect and we believe we have a basis now for an intervention, obviously more substantive work has to be done.

South Africa has yet to table its substantive memorial and that will be some months away yet.

He said the rapidly deteriorating situation in Gaza was now a humanitarian catastrophe.

Clearly, aid is being prevented from going in, but the most vital essentials of life are being prevented from going in to Gaza.

This constitutes significant harm and destruction to a people, and to the people of Gaza.
Leo Varadkars resignation nudged the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Assisted Dyings landmark report off the front pages last week, but we are inching towards legislating for assisting dying.

Ethically this human rights issue is a whopper.

Several people have tried to introduce legislation on the controversial issue including the retired Independent TD John Halligan.

People Before Proft TD Gino Kellys Dying with Dignity Bill 2020 ran into the weeds when an Oireachtas Justice Committee decided that there were serious technical issues with it.

Concerns included a lack of sufficient safeguards to protect against undue pressure being put on vulnerable people to avail of assisted dying. This led to the formation of the Committee on Assisted Dying.

So, what did they come up with?

After extensive consultation, the majority recommended that a person wanting to receive assistance in ending their life could do so if they were diagnosed with an incurable and irreversible medical condition that would cause their death within six months, and their suffering could not be relieved in a manner that the person finds tolerable.

Where a person has a neurogenerative disease, the period would be 12 months.

The death would be carried out under the auspices of a national body for assisted dying which would collaborate with the HSE.

Two formal requests for assisted dying would be made with an interval between both.

Dissenting members of the 14-person committee included chairperson Michael Healy Rae, Senator Ronan Mullan, and FF TD Robert Troy who disagreed with assisted dying becoming a right.

So, are there any concerns about how we might ultimately frame legislation?

For starters, we should look at what has just happened in Canada where controversial plans to offer people suffering from mental illnesses the option of a medically assisted death have recently been postponed.

Campaigners in favour of the measure argued that excluding those with mental disorders was discriminatory.

Campaigners against the loosening of the laws argued that mentally ill patients can achieve remission if given high-quality treatment and that this extension of eligibility is fraught with dangers.

Were we to introduce legislation on assisted dying, as in Canada, an attempt to widen the eligibility criteria would almost certainly occur.

An obvious question is how psychiatrists are supposed to distinguish between those who are suicidal and need professional help and people who are depressed but competent to seek assisted dying.

The next area of concern is coercion. One recommendation in the committees report is that another person cant request assisted dying for a relative. I think we can agree this is a good thing.

Where a relative stands to gain from somebodys death financially either because of the economic burden of caring for somebody or where a sick or old relative has assets to leave the red flags are obvious.

Michael Healy-Rae TD after the Joint Committee on Assisted Dying released its report last week; as chair of the committee he voted against the report. Picture: Sam Boal/Collins

They are also present where a person has a history of coercion and abuse against the person being encouraged to seek assisted dying.

Coercion is insidious, subtle, and may be wrought over a protracted period causing a person to lose agency. It is a process as anybody who works in domestic abuse knows.

The College of Psychiatrists has come out heavily against the committees recommendation to introduce assisted dying because they agree it can be hard for medical professionals to detect coercion.

As medics know legal boundaries sometimes fail to square with clinical reality.

The committee has recommended that coercion be treated as a criminal offence.

The psychiatrists further argued for improvement of palliative care and services for people facing a terminal illness.

The committee recommended that resources and information about palliative care be substantially increased.

However, a research paper funded by the Irish Cancer Society published late last year found that patients receiving palliative care at home suffered energy hardship, with an impact on their physical and mental health with carers experiencing great financial stress.

Its obvious how a perfect storm of insufficient resources might encourage vulnerable, depressed people to end their lives or might encourage carers struggling emotionally and financially to agree even tacitly it was for the best.

Presumably, understanding this the committee recommends that carers be robustly supported.

Disability groups told the committee that assisted dying should not be prioritised ahead of ensuring that supports exist to allow disabled people to live full lives.

Sadly, they know that once eligibility for assisted dying moved towards a quality-of-life basis rather than a terminal prognosis they would be under pressure because thats the world they navigate.

The reality is that some people would not have a problem with this because they view disabled people as lesser.

If you doubt that a utilitarian, terrifyingly rationalist, and chilling mindset exists towards who deserves to live a life and what that life is worth then Id direct you to Brendan OConnors brilliant 2021 interview with Oxford philosopher Richard Dawkins (its on YouTube).

The context is disability and abortion, but the thinking exposed on whose life matters has a direct relevance to assisted dying.

Dawkins once tweeted that it would be immoral to bring a child with Down syndrome into the world and that it should be aborted.

When pressed by OConnor, whose own daughter has Down syndrome, he said that it seemed plausible that bringing a child with any kind of disability into the world would reduce the quantity of happiness in the world.

Expertly backing him into a corner, OConnor pointed out that plenty of so-called perfect children who dont have Down syndrome increase the unhappiness in the world.

The point is that while some of us agree that the right to have an abortion or a medically assisted death is a human one societally, we should vehemently guard against a eugenic style of thinking.

As it happens, in his book The God Delusion Dawkins, considered to be a brilliant biologist, draws an analogy between pet owners summoning a vet to give an animal dying in pain an anaesthetic and a doctor risking jail for doing the same for humans.

Does the analogy not seem glib to you or is ending a human life as simple as putting a dog down?

The late Vicky Phelan argued passionately in favour of being allowed to leave this life on her terms. As she remarked: The horrors of the treatment are often worse than the actual disease. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

So where to now for us? Ultimately, its up to the Government to decide whether to act on the recommendations.

However, opinion polls show growing public support for legalising assisted dying with a Red C / Business Post poll last June suggesting 64% of those surveyed supported assisted dying for people who did not have terminal illnesses but had no prospect of improvement.

This is bound to focus political minds.

Irish mindsets have shifted on assisted death. The late Vicky Phelan played her part in the campaign to allow terminally ill people to die with dignity. She argued passionately in favour of being allowed to leave this life on her terms.

As she remarked: The horrors of the treatment are often worse than the actual disease.

She also remarked, just because you believe something for your own reasons, whether religious or other, you shouldnt be imposing your beliefs on somebody else.

I agree. However, while the time may have come to confront the issue of assisted dying, it is not something to be done lightly.

Because good governance focuses on providing citizens with the ability to improve their lives by providing public services and safeguarding them from harm rather than encouraging them to end their lives.
An investment in the future of SMEs is how Rachael McFarlane, programme manager of MentorsWork, describes the benefit of availing of bespoke mentoring sessions for companies with between 1 to 250 employees.

MentorsWork, now in its fifth year, doesnt cost SMEs anything as the programme is backed by the Small Firms Association (SFA) and Skillnet Ireland, the government-funded business support agency.

Some 1,000 spaces are available for the 12-week programme. Participants are hand-selected a mentor with industry-specific knowledge and experience in their field. There is access to online resources in key areas such as people management, business processes, finance, growth strategies, digitalisation and green sustainability. More than 3,000 SMEs have been through the MentorsWork programme.

It is all led by the SME as to where they need support, says McFarlane. Its not us saying this is what we are going to do. Its completely tailored to each business.

The mentor is selected based on the competency areas that the SME has chosen to work on, taking into account the sector and the size of the business that is applying.

We pair the company with a mentor that has actually walked in their shoes with experience in their specific industry. Its all selected in the best possible way to make sure the SME gets the best mentor that matches their needs.

The duration of the programme isnt set in stone. We know how busy business owners are so if someone needs a bit of extra time or a little more hand-holding, thats absolutely fine.

What is offered are one-to-one mentoring sessions and access to unlimited upskilling sessions. Workshops and master classes are provided, ranked from beginners level to intermediate and advanced levels as well as networking sessions.

Not only can the SME learn from an expert who is leading them but also, its an opportunity to meet peers, to discuss and share advice and tips with each other.

Feedback is welcomed.

One of the great things about MentorsWork is that were really quick to implement new feedback. After every session and at the end of the programme, we ask the SME for their thoughts on what they would change. Were not slow to react to changes. Were completely led by the feedback we get from the SMEs. It usually takes a two-week turnaround time to implement a new idea or introduce a new topic.

McFarlane acknowledges that sole traders, who are managing everything in their business, may not have the time to commit to the programme over the recommended twelve weeks. The sole trader is facilitated with a timeline that suits them.

'The mentor was great in terms of knowledge of growth'

Ninas Boutique:

Helen Lynch employs six people at Ninas Boutique in Trim, County Meath. She took over this 60-year-old family business just before the pandemic started.

We had totally renovated the store. But covid pushed us to open an online platform which has traded quite well for us. But we got to a stage where we wanted to bring it to the next level. So we were looking around researching to see who could help us and we found the MentorsWork programme.

Lynch says its important to know what the business issue is that MentorsWork can focus on.

We wanted to build our online business, to be more nationwide. We were matched with the correct partner last year. We had three one-on-one sessions with the partner. It enabled us to talk through our business issues and for the mentoring company to come back to us with suggestions and solutions for us to move forward.

"It was a fantastic opportunity because the sessions were totally bespoke to our company. It was the perfect match for us. From there, we were able to create an online strategy for going forward which we started to implement this year.

The mentorship has been an incredibly positive experience for my team. We were partnered with a digital marketing company. We engaged with them and we have started to work with them as well, outside of the mentoring. They understood our issues.

I would highly recommend the MentorsWork programme to any small business. When you have an issue within your business, especially a small business, its hard to find sources that can help you to move things along. We maximised the sessions we were given. Its important not to be vague about what you want from them.

Irish entrepreneurs building success brick by brick: Paul Healy, CEO of Skillnet Ireland; Rachael McFarlane, programme Manager, MentorsWork; David Broadrick, director of the Small Firms Association (SFA); Graham Buggy, managing director, Brendan Buggy Steel Fabrication Ltd; Helen Lynch managing director of Ninas Boutique; Barry Prost, co-founder, Rent a Recruiter; Geraldine Magnier, director, Idiro Analytics and chair of the SFA, pictured paving the way for SME success against the timeless backdrop of Irelands heritage stone walls, to announce the opening of applications for MentorsWork 2024.

Brendan Buggy Steel fabrication Ltd:

The managing director of Dublin-based Brendan Buggy Steel Fabrication, Graham Buggy, says the business was started in 1982 by his father. It has since expanded and has a staff of twenty-seven. Its management team is spread over a number of areas including project management, design, fabrication of mild steel, stainless steel, sheet metal and a powder coating unit.

We have seen quite a bit of growth in the last few years and were looking into support, says Buggy. We wanted to get a better focus on what potentially our next phase of growth was going to be, how to diversify and to see what could be made into products. The hope is in the coming years well be able to start exporting.

The mentor was great in terms of knowledge of growth. They had worked on growth strategy in previous businesses. Moving away from being a family business to more of a board set-up, we needed someone who has operated in that space to give us some pointers. We had three sessions with the mentor last year and weve signed up with them again this year to continue what we were doing with them.

We have managed to grow but in order to continue that, were really going into the unknown. We needed to get under the bonnet as it were to see what is required from an operational perspective and to see what to focus on. As an SME, were quite time-poor. Everybody has to pull their weight. Being able to step back and have that time has been great. We werent wasting time or talking about maybes. It was all very practical steps that could be taken."

Buggy highly recommends the MentorsWork programme. He says that the potential to export products is not as far away as we thought, after looking at case studies.

MentorsWork is adept at helping SMEs such as Buggys company to look ahead and to adopt best business practices.

Sign up for expert mentoring support

Applications for MentorsWork are now open for SMEs of all sizes and all sectors across the Republic of Ireland. To find out more and to register for the programme, please visit www.mentorswork.ie . MentorsWork is brought to you by the SFA in partnership with Skillnet Ireland, IBEC, SBCI and Microfinance Ireland.
The same vessel that hit the Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, destroying it and sending people and vehicles tumbling into the water, was also involved in a collision while leaving the port of Antwerp, Belgium, in 2016.

According to Vessel Finder and the maritime incident archive Shipwrecklog, the Dali  a 948ft (290-meter) cargo ship with a capacity of 10,000 containers  was leaving the container terminal of Antwerp heading to Bremerhaven.

As it did so, its bow reportedly swung around, causing the stern to scrape the side of the quay, significantly damaging several meters of the hull.

The ship was reportedly detained by authorities afterward and docked in Deurganckdok, Belgium. There were reportedly no injuries or adverse pollution.

According to Vessel Finder, the weather was fine at the time, and the incident was reportedly blamed on the ships master and pilot on board.

It is unclear what crew were aboard the ship. Vessel Finder said at the time that the ship, which was built in South Korea in 2015 by Hyundai Heavy Industries, was owned by the Greek company Oceanbulk Maritime but was chartered by Maersk.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) confirmed on Tuesday that the Dali was registered in Singapore and had 22 crew on board, with Maersk adding in a statement that the crew were all Indian but none of them were Maersk crew or personnel.

It said the ship was operated by the charter vessel company Synergy Group.

Maersk has been approached for comment.

About 2.6km (1.6 miles) of the Baltimore bridge collapsed on Tuesday when the Dali crashed into it, causing a number of vehicles to fall into the Patapsco River below.

At least seven people were being searched for with two rescued, including one in critical condition, officials said on Tuesday at a pre-dawn press conference.

- Guardian
Taiwan has commissioned two new navy ships as a safeguard against the rising threat from China.

Beijing has been ratcheting up its naval and air force missions around the island that it claims as its own territory  to be annexed by force if necessary.

The pair of Tuo Chiang class corvettes completes the first order of six of the domestically produced catamarans with stealth capabilities.

The ships are relatively small, capable of carrying just 41 sailors and officers, but are fast and highly manoeuvrable and carry a range of missiles and deck guns aimed at countering larger Chinese vessels and rocketry.

Outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen oversaw the commissioning on Tuesday at the northern port of Suao, emphasising her push to revitalise Taiwans defence industries, alongside extensive arms purchases and support from key ally the United States.

Taiwan has commissioned two new navy ships as a safeguard against the rising threat from China (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

Ms Tsai has also fast-tracked the production of trainer jets and the islands first homebuilt submarines, sometimes pushing budgets for such purchases through the legislature against resistance from representatives of the opposition Nationalist Party, which favors eventual unification with China.

Ma Ying-jeou, the last president from the Nationalists, also known as the KMT, is reportedly planning a visit to China next month that could include a meeting with Communist Party leader Xi Jinping.

Taiwan was colonised by China in the 1600s but later taken over by Japan, before reverting to the Republic of China at the end of the Second World War.

The sides then split again amid the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Mr Xi has been building his military with an eye to consolidating Chinas territorial claims throughout the Pacific, the South China Sea and along the contested high-mountain border with India.

China boasts the worlds largest standing military and biggest navy  with three aircraft carriers  but has not fought in a major conflict since its brief 1979 invasion of Vietnam.

The pair of Tuo Chiang class corvettes completes the first order of six of the domestically produced catamarans (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

Since then, its military budget has ballooned to the worlds second largest behind the US, alongside a huge expansion of its economy, which is now showing signs of losing steam.

Most recently, frictions between patrol vessels from the sides near Taiwan-controlled islands just off the Chinese coast have renewed concerns about a conflict that could draw in the US, which is legally bound to ensure Taiwan can defend itself and considers all threats to the island as matters of grave concern.

While vastly outgunned, Taiwans military has been bolstered by new weaponry and an extension of the universal period of national service for men from four months to one year. Its air force, navy and missile corps also respond to near-daily incursions by Chinese ships and planes.

Taiwans defence ministry says it is on alert for a Chinese sneak attack, possibly targeting Ms Tsai or Vice President William Lai, who will take over the top office in May.

Both are despised as separatists by Beijing. Recent Taiwanese media reports have shown satellite photos of Chinese Peoples Liberation Army training grounds including mock-ups of the area surrounding Taipeis Presidential Office Building.

Taiwans defence ministry said it detected nine Chinese planes and six ships operating around the island between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning.

In Beijing on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Cabinets Taiwan Affairs Office criticised live-firing exercises by the Taiwanese military planned for next month near the Taiwan-held island group of Kinmen just off the Chinese coast.

Any provocative move Taiwans military takes is doomed to fail, Chen Binhua said at a biweekly news conference.
Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has replaced one of the countrys top security officials in a reshuffle that comes as the war with Russia drags into a third year.

Mr Zelenskyy dismissed Oleksii Danilov, who served as secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, thanking him for his service in a video late on Tuesday.
Allies of Florida governor Ron DeSantis and Disney have reached a settlement agreement in a lawsuit over who controls Walt Disney Worlds governing district.

In a meeting, the members of the board of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District approved the settlement agreement, ending almost two years of litigation that was sparked by Mr DeSantis takeover of the district from Disney supporters following the companys opposition to Floridas so-called Dont Say Gay law.

The 2022 law bans classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early school years and was championed by Mr DeSantis, who used Disney as a punching bag in speeches until he suspended his presidential campaign this year.

This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the state

The district provides municipal services such as firefighting, planning and mosquito control, among other things, and was controlled by Disney supporters for most of its five decades.

Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a statement that the company was pleased a settlement had been reached.

This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the state, Mr Vahle said.

As punishment for Disneys opposition, Mr DeSantis took over the governing district through legislation passed by the Republican-controlled Florida legislature and appointed a new board of supervisors.

Disney sued Mr DeSantis and his appointees, claiming the companys free speech rights were violated for speaking out against the legislation. A federal judge dismissed that lawsuit in January.

Before control of the district changed hands from Disney allies to DeSantis appointees early last year, the Disney supporters on its board signed agreements with Disney shifting control over design and construction at Disney World to the company.

The new DeSantis appointees claimed the eleventh-hour deals neutered their powers and the district

sued the company in state court in Orlando to have the contracts voided.

Disney filed counterclaims that include asking the state court to declare the agreements valid and enforceable.
Israel bombed at least four homes in Rafah on Wednesday, raising new fear among the more than a million Palestinians sheltering in the last refuge on the southern edge of the Gaza Strip that a long-threatened ground assault could be coming.

One of the airstrikes killed 11 people from a single family, health officials said.

Mussa Dhaheer, looking on from below as neighbours helped an emergency worker lower a victim in a black body bag from an upper storey, said he had awakened to the blast, kissed his terrified daughter, and rushed outside to find the destruction. His father, 75, and mother, 62, were among the dead.

Palestinians carry the body of a woman found under the rubble of a destroyed building following an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, Gaza Strip, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

"I don't know what to do. I don't know what to say. I can't make sense of what happened. My parents. My father with his displaced friends who came from Gaza City," he told Reuters.

"They were all together, when suddenly they were all gone like dust."

At another bomb site, Jamil Abu Houri said the intensification of air strikes was Israel's way of showing its disdain for a UN security council resolution last week demanding an immediate Israel-Hamas ceasefire.

Palestinians search for bodies at a house hit by an Israeli strike in Rafah, Gaza Strip on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

Next up, he fears a ground assault on Rafah, which Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened to carry out despite warnings from closest ally Washington that this would wreak a humanitarian disaster.

"The bombing has increased, and they have threatened us with an incursion, and they say that have been given the green light for the Rafah incursion. Where is the security council?" Abu Houri said.

A man salvages food packages from a building that was hit overnight during Israeli bombardment in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on March 26, 2024. Picture: SAID KHATIB/AFP via Getty Images

A US official said on Wednesday Israel had asked to reschedule a meeting in Washington to discuss its plans for Rafah, days after Netanyahu abruptly cancelled the talks over the passage of a Gaza ceasefire resolution by the UN security council that the US decided not to veto.

The US abstention from the vote pointed to frustration with Netanyahu, who rebuked Washington over the move.

Read More Ireland preparing to intervene in South Africas genocide case against Israel

MORE DEADLY AIRSTRIKES

Another Israeli airstrike in Rafah on Wednesday afternoon killed four Palestinians including a woman and a child and injured other residents, Gaza health authorities said.

Palestinians mourn relatives killed in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip at a hospital morgue in Rafah, Tuesday, March 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Fatima Shbair)

Just west of Gaza City in the enclave's north, seven people were killed in an airstrike on a house, health officials said.

The Israeli military says it is targeting armed Hamas militants who use civilian buildings, including apartment blocks and hospitals, for cover. Hamas denies doing so.

Separately, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where bloodshed has worsened in parallel with the Gaza war, three Palestinians were killed and four wounded by Israeli fire during a raid in Jenin overnight, the Palestinian health ministry said.

At least 32,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's air and ground offensive into Hamas-run Gaza, according to the health ministry there, with thousands of other dead believed buried under rubble and over 80% of the 2.3 million population displaced, many at risk of famine.

The war erupted after Islamist Hamas militants broke through the border on Oct. 7 and rampaged through nearby communities, killing 1,200 people and abducting 253 hostages according to Israeli tallies.

Israeli forces just north of Rafah kept the two main hospitals in Khan Younis, Al-Amal and Nasser Hospital, under a blockade imposed late last week. In the north, they were still operating inside Al Shifa, the enclave's largest hospital, which they stormed more than a week ago.

Israel says the hospitals have been lairs for Hamas gunmen, which Hamas and medical staff deny. The Israeli military has said it killed and captured hundreds of fighters in a battle in Al Shifa. Hamas says civilians and medics were rounded up.

Gaza's health ministry said wounded people and patients were being held inside Al Shifa's human resources department that was not equipped to provide them with healthcare.

Residents living nearby have reported hearing constant explosions in and around Al Shifa and columns of smoke coming from buildings inside the premises.

International mediation has failed to secure a ceasefire and exchange of prisoners so far as the two sides stick to irreconcilable demands. Hamas wants an end to the war and total Israeli withdrawal from Gaza while Israel has vowed to keep fighting until its Islamist foe is eradicated.
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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.
Ann Arbor (Informed Comment)  State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Tuesday characterized the United Nations Security Council resolution 2728 demanding an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza conflict as non-binding, a phrase also used by US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield.

The US was rebuked by China, according to Akmal Dawi at VOA: Security Council resolutions are binding, Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said on Tuesday.

Beijing is correct on the law, and the Biden administration is being disingenuous. If President Biden did not want a ceasefire resolution to pass, he should have vetoed it. By abstaining and letting the world community vote on the matter, Biden has elicited a binding decision, and his officials should stop dancing around it.

The law here is clear.

Article 25 of the UN Charter, to which the US, China and Israel are all signatories, says, The Members of the United Nations agree to accept and carry out the decisions of the Security Council in accordance with the present Charter.

Moreover, we could consider the actual language of the resolution, in which the UNSC

Demands an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan respected by all parties leading to a lasting sustainable ceasefire, and also demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as ensuring humanitarian access to address their medical and other humanitarian needs, and further demands that the parties comply with their obligations under international law in relation to all persons they detain

Youd have to twist yourself into a pretzel to avoid concluding that the Security Council sees the ceasefire as binding, given the use of the verb demand. The UNSC isnt suggesting. It isnt hoping. It isnt imploring. It is demanding.

BBC News Video: Gaza: Fighting continues despite UN Security Council resolution calling for ceasefire | BBC News

Washingtons hypocrisy on this matter is legendary and stunning.

After the Gulf War of 1990-1991 the UN Security Council passed resolutions demanding the disarmament of Iraq. We now know that Iraq complied. But the US and other major powers refused to believe Baghdads assertions or even documents in this regard.

One of the grounds that George W. Bush put forward for invading Iraq was precisely its failure to abide by those UN Security Council resolutions. He actually represented the US not as acting unilaterally for narrow American purposes but as upholding the authority of the UNSC.

Robert McMahon at Radio Free Europe/ Radio Liberty wrote in 2002, Expressing frustration and alarm, U.S. President George W. Bush says Iraqs long defiance of United Nations disarmament resolutions has placed the UNs credibility in question.

So disobeying the UNSC according to Washington is so serious a matter that it could get you invaded and your government overthrown. I guess thats not non-binding.

In 2007, the UNSC, disappointed in Irans non-compliance with demands for it to cease its civilian nuclear enrichment activities, imposed an embargo on weapons sales by Tehran. To enforce economic sanctions against Iran, the UNSC even allowed the boarding of vessels on the high seas suspected of carrying Iranian weapons.

The UNSC also allows ships carrying North Korean goods to be boarded. Ordinarily freedom of navigation on the high seas is an absolute right in international law. But the UNSC can do as it pleases. It has placed extensive economic sanctions on Pyongyang.

The only real sense in which UNSC Resolution 2728 is non-binding is not a legal one but a practical one. Since the US has a veto, if the UNSC tries to sanction Israel for its defiance, as it did Iraq, Iran and North Korea, the Biden administration would use its veto to protect the fascist government presently ruling Israel. But that action is not high diplomacy, just arbitrary and disgusting partisanship that makes a mockery of international law and of ethical principles.

Finally, consider the legislative history. What did the UNSC members intend? The UN News tells us.

Russian ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia said, Those who are providing cover for Israel still want to give it a free hand, he added, expressing hope that the wording contained in the resolution will be used in the interests of peace rather than advancing the inhumane Israeli operation against the Palestinians.

He opposed the Biden administrations granting of a free hand to Israel to thumb its nose at the resolution.

Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett of Guyana: This demand [by the Council] comes at a significant time as Palestinians are observing the holy month of Ramadan, she said, noting continuing deaths in the enclave and a growing number of families left homeless.

She called it a demand, and said that said that after more than five months of a war of utter terror and destruction, a ceasefire is the difference between life and death for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and others.

Doesnt sound like a mere polite suggestion to me.

Chinas Zhang Jun said, The current draft is unequivocal and correct in its direction, demanding an immediate ceasefire, while the previous one was evasive and ambiguous.

I note the term unequivocal.

Hwang Joonkook of South Korea said, The situation must be different before and after this resolution. This will only be possible when both Israel and Hamas respect and faithfully implement this resolution.

So, not voluntary. Binding.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Renegade Gold Inc. (TSXV: RAGE) (OTCQX: TGLDF) (FSE: 070) ("Renegade" or the "Company") announces that it has arranged a private placement of up to 17,000,000 units (the "Units") at $0.20 per Unit for total gross proceeds of up to $3,400,000 (the "Placement"). Each Unit will consist of one common share and one transferable share purchase warrant, each warrant exercisable into one additional common share for a period of three years from date of issue at a price of $0.25 per share.

All securities issued under the Placement will be subject to a hold period expiring four months and one day from the date of issue.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Placement to extinguish debt, for exploration work on the Company's exploration properties and for general working capital.

The Company anticipates closing of the Placement (in one or more tranches) as soon as practicable subject to receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to sell any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Renegade Gold Inc.

Renegade Gold Inc. is a growth focused company engaged in the business of acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties located in the Red Lake Mining District of Northern Ontario. As part of its regional-scale consolidation strategy, the Company has assembled one of the largest prospective land packages in and around the Red Lake mining district in proximity to major mines and deposits, as well as along the Confederation Lake and Birch-Uchi greenstone belts. The recent completion of the acquisition of Pacton Gold Inc. extends Trillium's ownership in Red Lake to over 89,600 hectares of prospective and diversified exploration properties with significant potential for gold and critical minerals on trend with the major structures hosting known gold occurrences in the Red Lake mining district today. The Company also holds a portfolio of prospective projects in Western Australia.

For further information, please contact:

Renegade Gold Inc.

Nav Dhaliwal

President, CEO and Director

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel: 604-678-5308

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "Forward-Looking Information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-Looking Information includes, but is not limited to, the anticipated timing for completion of the Placement and use of proceeds therefrom. The words "anticipate," "significant," "expect," "may," "will" and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify Forward-Looking Information. Forward-Looking Information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking information. In preparing the Forward-Looking Information in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, assumptions that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner; that all requisite approvals will be received and all requisite information will be available in a timely manner. Factors that may cause actual results to vary materially include, but are not limited to, inaccurate assumptions concerning the exploration for and development of mineral deposits, currency fluctuations, unanticipated operational or technical difficulties, risks related to unforeseen delays; general economic, market or business conditions, regulatory changes; timeliness of regulatory approvals, the risks of obtaining necessary licenses and permits, changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets and the inability to raise additional financing. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this Forward-Looking Information. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update this Forward-Looking Information after the date of this release or to revise such information to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.
VANCOUVER, BC, March 26, 2024 /CNW/ - Libero Copper & Gold Corporation (TSXV: LBC) (OTCQB: LBCMF) ("Libero Copper") announces an aggregate of 4.400,000 incentive stock options (the "Options") have been granted to certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company. The Options are exercisable at a price of $0.48, expiring on March 26, 2034, subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval.

About Libero Copper

Libero Copper is a mineral exploration company, which is focussed on unlocking the value of the Mocoa copper-molybdenum porphyry deposit located in Putumayo, Colombia. Mocoa is being advanced by a highly disciplined and seasoned professional team with successful track records of discovery, resource development, and permitting in Colombia. Libero Copper prioritizes building strong relationships with the communities in which we operate and is dedicated to creating long-term value for our shareholders through responsible exploration to fuel the green energy future.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although Libero Copper believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, obtaining the receipt of final TSX Venture Exchange approval, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions and regulatory and administrative approvals, processes and filing requirements. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. The forward-looking information is stated as of the date of this news release and Libero Copper assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.
Highlights:

Following drift mine development alongside the RAM orebody at Jervois 100% owned Idaho Cobalt Operations (ICO), Jervois has commenced underground extension drilling from the existing mineral resource estimate (MRE)

Jervois is interpreting previously announced1 assay results from the Sunshine surface programme, with modelling of the deposit nearing completion

Sunshine and RAM exploration programmes are fully funded under the United States (U.S.) Governments Department of Defense (DoD) Production Act Title III US$15.0 million grant award (Agreement Funding)

Prior to these exploration programmes, ICOs mineral resource and reserve is already the largest and highest grade confirmed cobalt orebody in the U.S.

Cobalt is a critical mineral as declared by the U.S. Government due to cobalts aerospace, defense and energy transition applications

U.S. Congressional Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party has put forward a reserve or price floor to sustain domestic American production

27 March 2024 (Australia) / TheNewswire / Jervois Global Limited (Jervois) (ASX: JRV) (TSX-V: JRV) (OTC: JRVMF) has commenced the underground resource extension programme at the RAM deposit at its 100%-owned Idaho Cobalt Operations (ICO) in Idaho, U.S., via local contractors Small Mine Development and Major Drilling, funded under a US$15M agreement with the U.S. Government.

The RAM resource extension programme has completed approximately 50% of the underground exploration drift and step-out drilling to define potential extension of the existing RAM mineral resource has commenced.

Based on the existing US$15.0 million Agreement Funding, Jervois direct expenditure for the resource extension programme including exploration development drifts, drilling, logging, assaying, MRE modelling and other related Jervois supervision costs through Q4 2024, are fully funded by the U.S. DoD.

The Agreement Funding is under the Manufacturing Capability Expansion and Investment Prioritization office of Industrial Base Policy using the U.S. Defense Production Act Title III authorities and utilises funds from the Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act.

On behalf of Jervois Global Limited

Bryce Crocker, CEO

For further information, please contact:

Investors and analysts: Alicia Brown Group Manager  External Affairs Jervois Global This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Media: Nathan Ryan NWR Communications This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Mob: +61 420 582 887

Forward-Looking Statements

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 used in this news release, the words anticipate, believe, estimate, expect, target, plan, forecast, may, schedule, expected and other similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to drilling outcomes at Sunshine, underground exploration development in the RAM deposit, drilling in the RAM deposit, mineral resource estimates for Sunshine, reimbursement payments from the DoD and certain other factors or information. Such statements represent Jervois current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Jervois, 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. Jervois 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 affections such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

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.

1 See ASX announcment dated 30 January 2024 (Australia), Jervois completes DoD reimbursed Sunshine drilling .

2 See ASX announcement dated 13 December 2023, Jervois welcomes U.S. Congressional Select Committee proposal for a reserve to sustain cobalt price




Vancouver, British Columbia  TheNewswire - March 27, 2024: Inflection Resources Ltd. (CSE: AUCU / OTCQB: AUCUF / FSE: 5VJ) (the "Company" or "Inflection") is pleased to announce the appointments of Mr. Fraser MacCorquodale as a Non-Executive Director and Dr. Neil Adshead as Advisor to the Company, effective immediately.

Summary Highlights:

The Company has appointed Mr. MacCorquodale as a Non-Executive Director. Fraser is an exploration geologist with over 35 years experience and until recently was Newcrest Minings global head of exploration from 2008 to 2023, during which he was directly involved in several discoveries within Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, West Africa and Western Canada. Fraser has a deep understanding of the Macquarie Arc and the Cadia district in New South Wales where Inflection is exploring its portfolio of 100% owned projects;

The Company has also appointed Dr. Neil Adshead as Advisor. Neil is an industry veteran with extensive technical and capital markets expertise and was a portfolio manager and investment strategist at Sprott Inc. between 2012 to 2023. Prior to joining Sprott, Neil was a senior mining analyst at Passport Capital and prior to that held senior roles with Placer Dome.

Alistair Waddell, Inflections President and CEO, states: I am delighted to welcome Fraser and Neil to the Company, both of whom possess tremendous and highly relevant experience that complements Inflections ongoing exploration activities in Australia. We are pleased to have attracted such accomplished and discovery-focused industry veterans with strong technical and capital market expertise. Fraser's deep technical knowledge of copper-gold porphyry deposits, especially in the Macquarie Arc, as well as Neils global knowledge of the exploration business and capital markets will greatly assist the Companys initiatives in New South Wales, where it controls over 7,000 square kilometres of exploration licenses.

About Fraser MacCorquodale, Non-Executive Director: Mr. MacCorquodale is an exploration geologist with over 35 years experience in exploring for gold and copper deposits globally, encompassing expertise in near mine, brownfield and greenfield exploration. Fraser led Newcrests global exploration team from 2008 to 2023, during which he was directly involved in a number of discoveries within Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, West Africa and Western Canada. During his tenure, Fraser played a pivotal role in formulating and executing Newcrest's growth strategy, overseeing the development of a world-class exploration team and establishing a robust growth portfolio.

Fraser has tremendous expertise in exploring for alkalic porphyry deposits, including significant experience in exploring under cover within the Macquarie Arc. This expertise is built upon a deep knowledge of the world class Cadia and the Red Chris copper-gold districts and their associated footprints, particularly at depth. Fraser was awarded the Colin Spence Award for excellence in Global Mineral Exploration in 2020 from the Association for Mineral Exploration for his role in discovery of the Havieron project located in Western Australia.

About Dr. Neil Adshead, Advisor: Dr. Adsheads career commenced at Placer Dome, where he held various exploration, mining and managerial roles in Australia, Papua New Guinea and Canada. After a decade with Placer Dome, he worked the next twenty years on the buy-side, initially serving as a Senior Mining Analyst at San Francisco-based Passport Capital, then as an Investment Strategist and Portfolio Manager for various subsidiaries of Sprott Inc. Neil currently holds several roles including assisting a mid-tier mining company with growth initiatives and providing technically-focused investment reviews for investments funds with different mandates.

Stock Options: The Company has granted 2,950,000 incentive stock options (the Options) to Officers, Directors, employees and advisors to the Company. Each Option is exercisable to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.20 for a five-year term and will vest six months after the date of grant. The Options are subject to the acceptance of the Canadian Securities Exchange.

About Inflection Resources Ltd. Inflection is a technically driven copper-gold and gold focused mineral exploration company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol AUCU and on the OTCQB under the symbol AUCUF with projects in Australia.

The Company is systematically exploring for large copper-gold deposits in the northern interpreted extension of the Macquarie Arc, part of the Lachlan Fold Belt in New South Wales.The Macquarie Arc is Australias premier porphyry copper-gold province host to Newmonts Cadia deposits, the CMOC Northparkes deposits and Evolution Minings Cowal deposits plus numerous exploration prospects including Boda, the discovery made by Alkane Resources. For more information, please visit the Company website at www.inflectionresources.com.

Inflection is part of the NewQuest Capital Group which is a discovery-driven investment group that builds value through the incubation and financing of mineral projects and companies. Further information about NewQuest can be found on the company website at www.nqcapitalgroup.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Alistair Waddell

President and CEO

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For further information, please contact:

Brennan Zerb

Investor Relations Manager

+1 (778) 867-5016

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Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding future capital expenditures, amount of drilling, receipt of the maximum amount of available grant funding, anticipated content, commencement and cost of exploration programs in respect of the Company's projects and mineral properties, AngloGolds anticipated funding of the Minimum Commitment and timing thereof, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "may", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, statements as to the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, including the Company's exploration plans. the proposed expenditures for exploration work thereon, the ability of the Company to obtain sufficient financing to fund its business activities and plans, delays in obtaining governmental and regulatory approvals (including of the Canadian Securities Exchange), permits or financing, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, the Company's limited operating history, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims, environmental issues and liabilities, as well as those factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's prospectus dated June 12, 2020 and other filings of the Company with the Canadian Securities Authorities, copies of which can be found under the Company's profile on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements, except as otherwise required by law.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Canter Resources Corp. (CSE: CRC) (OTC Pink: CNRCF) (FSE: 6O1) ("Canter" or the "Company") is pleased to report that the Company has selected Cascade Drilling L.P. to complete shallow Geoprobe drilling at the Columbus Lithium-Boron Project ("Columbus" or the "Project"), located near Tonopah, Nevada.

The Company has received permits from the Nevada Division of Minerals for 10 planned Geoprobe drillholes that will be completed along pre-existing N-S and E-W gravel roads that cut through priority target areas at the Project. The Geoprobe drill campaign has been designed to collect both sediment and water samples from depths ranging between 3-30 metres (approximately 10-100 feet) below surface.

"The shallow Geoprobe program compliments our upcoming exploration well drilling as part of Phase I work and will provide us with another valuable dataset at Columbus," stated Joness Lang, CEO of Canter Resources. "Our primary lithium-enriched aquifer targets are at more moderate depths; however, this highly conductive upper interval is intriguing and if our first phase of Geoprobe drilling is successful we will consider shallow grid drilling to define the extent of near-surface mineralization."

Figure 1: Section view (3D model slice) of HSAMT modeling with Geoprobe and initial exploration well locations shown. A total of 10 Geoprobe drill holes are expected to be completed in Phase I.

Geoprobe drilling is a well-recognized low-impact and low-cost method for near-surface analysis. In addition to characterizing the interpreted shallow brine generation layer, the Geoprobe drilling will provide more structural and geochemical data from 15-45 m depths that will further inform the Company's geological model. Cascade Drilling L.P., a leading field services provider of environmental and geotechnical drilling, is set to mobilize to site in the coming weeks once sites are flagged in the field and final preparations are completed.

Corporate Update

After further evaluation, the Company has decided not to proceed with further expenditures or option payments to Eagle Plains Resources Ltd. relating to the Puzzle Lake Project in Saskatchewan and accordingly the Option Agreement on the Puzzle Lake Project will be terminated.

Qualified Person (QP)

The technical information contained in this news release was reviewed and approved by Eric Saderholm P.Geo, Director and Technical Advisor of Canter Resources, a Qualified Person (QP), as defined under National Instrument 43- 101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Canter Resources Corp.

Canter Resources Corp. is a Canadian junior mineral exploration company advancing the Columbus Lithium-Boron Project in Nevada, USA and the Beaver Creek Lithium Property in Montana, USA. The Company is preparing for a Phase I drill campaign at Columbus to test a highly prospective lithium-brine target and plans to leverage the Company's critical metals targeting database to generate a portfolio of high-quality projects with the aim of defining mineral resources that support the domestic clean energy supply chain in North America.

For further information contact:

Joness Lang

Chief Executive Officer

Canter Resources Corp.

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For investor inquiries contact:

Kristina Pillon, High Tide Consulting Corp.

Tel: 604.908.1695

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The Canadian Securities Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - First Lithium Minerals Corp. (CSE: FLM) (OTC Pink: FLMCF) (FSE: X28) ("First Lithium Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has directly staked additional 547 mining claims at its existing 100%-owned Lidstone exploration project (the "Lidstone") located in the Thunder Bay Mining Division of northwestern Ontario. The new mining claims represent a significant increase and expand the total claims area by 11,105 hectares to a total of 12,830 hectares.

In January 2024, the Ontario Geological Survey (OGS) issued its 2023-2024 Recommendations for Exploration report based on the Resident Geologist Program (RGP) using the existing OGS geological and mineral exploration data along with field exploration activities, that highlighted lithium-cesium-tantalum (LCT)-type pegmatite potential in the Witchwood and Morden Lake Areas, Eastern English River Subprovince, which are located in the immediate area of the Company's Lidstone project (Reference: "LCT-Type Pegmatite Potential in the Witchwood and Morden Lake Areas, Eastern English River Subprovince, Ontario Geological Survey Resident Geologist Program, Recommendations for Exploration 2023-2024" report).

The exploration recommendation in the report was based on field work and sampling that was conducted by OGS during the 2023 field season and historical exploration and geological research in the area. Areas considered for exploration included the Witchwood and Morden Lake areas, which have many regional features favourable for rare-element pegmatites, including the presence of metasedimentary and metavolcanic rocks in proximity to peraluminous granite plutons located near the subprovince boundary. Pegmatites samples collected were coarse muscovite with possible apatite and were encountered at surface (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Exposure outcrops in the recommended exploration area. Contact between metasedimentary rocks and white pegmatite. Lidstone Project, Thunder Bay Mining Division, Northwestern Ontario. Source: Ontario Geological Survey

The Lidstone project area is in the Thunder Bay Mining Division of northwestern Ontario, approximately 120 km northeast of the town of Armstrong, Ontario, has good infrastructure for exploration activities with many forestry roads providing easy access. The newly acquired mining claims are in Witchwood and Morden Lake areas and adjacent to the existing Lidstone mining claims (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Lidstone Mining Claims Group, Thunder Bay Mining Division, Northwestern Ontario. Area of Recommendation (OGS) Source: Company reports, Ontario Geological Survey

The Lidstone mining claims group lies near the margins of the English River Subprovince of the Superior Province and remains primarily unexplored. The historical exploration work in the area indicated the presence of mafic-ultramafic intrusive rocks hosting anomalous Ni-Cu-PGE mineralization (Reference: MDI000000000142, Primary commodity: Nickel, Copper, Secondary commodity: Cobalt, Platinum Metals, Sim Lake Occurrence, Ontario Geological Survey). The area also exhibited anomalous lake geochemistry lithium (Li) grade clusters.

Rob Saltsman, CEO and Director of First Lithium Minerals, commented: "While we have long recognized the Lidstone project area as an attractive exploration target for lithium and potentially copper, the recent Ontario Geological Survey report on recommendations for exploration in the Lidstone project area solidified our belief and made our project even more exciting. With the staking of new claims, we further strengthen First Lithium Minerals' presence in northwestern Ontario and are strategically positioned now with the substantial land package to explore the significant potential of this region."

The Company is planning to conduct reconnaissance exploration, geologic mapping, including geophysical and geochemical surveys at the Lidstone project during the 2024 field season.

About First Lithium Minerals

First Lithium Minerals is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company. The Company is currently focusing on exploring for alkali metals at its 100% owned OCA Project comprised of approximately 9,000 ha of mineral exploration concessions located in the salars of Ollague, Carcote, and Ascotan in the Antofagasta Region of northern Chile. In Q4/22 and Q1/23 the Company conducted two property-wide geophysical surveys, identified two priority exploration targets for potential brine mineralization, and is currently planning its inaugural drilling program at the Salar de Ascotan pending obtaining required drilling permits and licences. First Lithium Minerals is also exploring for lithium and critical metals at its 100% owned exploration properties comprised of 16,740 ha of mining claims in northwestern Ontario, Canada.

Additional information about the Company is available on the Company's website: www.firstlithium.ca

Qualified Person

Adrian Smith, PGeo, is a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101, and is a registered professional geoscientist (PGeo). Mr. Smith has reviewed and approved the technical information disclosed herein.

For further information please contact:

First Lithium Minerals Corp.

77 King St. W Suite 3000

Toronto, ON M5K 1G8

Tel: 416-402-2428 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Rob Saltsman, CEO and Director

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "contemplates", "believes", "projects", "plans", and similar expressions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: prospecting and exploration activities, geophysical and geochemical surveys, its results and interpretation, studies and interpretations of historical exploration and geological information, drill target definition, permitting, licences, environmental laws and regulations, changes in government regulations and laws, obtaining social licence to explore and operate, community engagements, timing of exploration activities, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves, general business, economic, competitive, reliance on third parties, the actual results of operations, and other risks of the resources industry. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.
TORONTO, March 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PROBE GOLD INC. (TSX-V: PRB) (OTCQB: PROBF) (Probe or the Company) is pleased to announce the filing of the independent Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) technical report which has been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, on its 100% owned Novador Project, located in Val-dOr, Quebec.

The Novador PEA supports a robust mining plan that averages over 255,000 ounces per year of gold production, with over 281,000 ounces per year in the first five years of the 12.6-year mine life and boasts an impressive after-tax NPV of $910 million using a base-case gold price of US$1,750/oz. The technical report, entitled "Novador Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report & Preliminary Economic Assessment (the "Novador PEA") and dated March 26, 2024 (effective date of February 13th, 2024) is available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under Company's issuer profile, and on the Companys website https://probegold.com/novador-project/ under the technical reports tab.

The independent Technical Report was prepared through the collaboration of the following firms: Ausenco Engineering Canada ULC (Ausenco), Moose Mountain Technical Services (MMTS), InnovExplo Inc., Lamont Inc.

The scientific and technical content of this press release has been reviewed, prepared and approved by Mr. Yves Dessureault, P.Eng., COO of Probe Gold who is a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). Probe's news release dated February 13, 2024 (titled "Probe Gold Announces Updated PEA For Novador Project, Quebec; 23% Increase In Average Annual Production To 255,000 Ounces, Pre-Tax NPV5% Of C$1.53 Billion, And Pre-Tax IRR Of 34.4%") summarized the key results, assumptions and estimates contained in the Novador PEA.

About Probe Gold:

Probe Gold Inc. is a leading Canadian company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of highly prospective gold properties. The Company is well-funded and dedicated to exploring and developing high-quality gold projects. Notably, it owns 100% of its flagship asset, the multimillion-ounce Novador Gold Project in Quebec, as well as an early-stage Detour Gold Quebec project. Probe controls a large land package of approximately 1685-square-kilometres of exploration ground within some of the most prolific gold belts in Quebec.

On behalf of Probe Gold Inc.,

Dr. David Palmer,

President & Chief Executive Officer

For further information:

Please visit our website at www.probegold.com or contact:

Seema Sindwani

Vice-President of Investor Relations

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+1.416.777.9467

Forward-Looking Statements

Neither TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This News Release includes certain "forward-looking statements" which 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 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 Companys objectives, goals or future plans, statements, exploration results, potential mineralization, the estimation of mineral resources, exploration and mine development plans, 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 mineral resources, failure to convert estimated mineral resources to reserves, 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, political risks, inability to fulfill the duty to accommodate First Nations and other indigenous peoples, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing 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 Companys 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.
In Mid March, Google announce it is expanding its presence in the Midwest with a $1 billion data center in Kansas City, Missouri. Additionally, the company announced it is expanding a skilled trade career development program to the region and contributing to North Kansas City School Districts alternative education STEAM program. Google is also working with Evergy to power the site and Ranger Power and D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) to bring 400 megawatts of new carbon-free energy to the grid as part of the companys ambitious goal to run on 24/7 carbon-free energy.







Googles continued investment in technical infrastructure, including its data centers, plays an essential role in supporting the companys AI innovations and growing Google Cloud business. Googles data centers help power popular digital services  like Google Cloud, Workspace (which includes Gmail, Docs, Sheets and more), Search and Maps  for people and organizations worldwide.







Googles selection of the Kansas City region is another example of our states ability to attract and support world-class companies, said Missouri Mike Parson. Our skilled workforce, superior infrastructure, and prime business climate continue to result in investments from leading employers. We welcome Google to Missouri and look forward to the positive impact it will provide for our growing high-tech sector.







Kansas City continues to be one of the fastest-growing technology markets in the country, thanks to our prime location with thousands of hardworking, skilled workers, said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas. Our combined effort with Google is a strong reflection of Kansas Citys success in global industry and our future as an international technology capital.







We have reached an important inflection point for tech innovation like AI, and data centers are the backbone of this progress, said Monique Picou, Global Vice President of Cloud Supply Chain and Operations, Googie. Our announcement today is a testament to the resources, talent and welcoming spirit of the Kansas City community. Together, Kansas City and Google will help power Americas digital future and we are excited to contribute to the bright future of the region.







Googles major investment in KC will have multiple positive impacts long term. Not only will the tech company invest hundreds of millions of dollars benefitting our regions economy in myriad ways, but Googles global brand will now be directly linked to KCs rising global brand, said Tim Cowden, President and CEO, Kansas City Area Development Council. Google joins other international global tech and consumer brands that have recently selected KC for major investments.







Data centers and emerging tech infrastructure have never been more vital to our world. Port KC understands that securing Kansas Citys place as a hub for data centers is critically important to the next generation of workforce, said Jon Stephens, President and CEO, Port KC From advanced construction to engineering and IT, we are committed to making KC a leader in creating and growing opportunity for all.







This is a significant day for our state as we officially welcome the first Google data center to Missouri, said Subash Allas, CEO of Missouri Partnership.







Googles decision to expand into Missouri is the culmination of dedicated efforts from a multitude of partners, and we were honored to be part of the team. We extend a heartfelt welcome to Google as we eagerly anticipate its integration into our thriving tech ecosystem. Googles decision to locate their new data center campus at Hunt Midwest Business Center is the culmination of the long-term vision and sustained teamwork of so many strategic partners at every level, said Ora Reynolds, President and CEO, Hunt Midwest. Ten years ago, the Missouri legislature created economic development programs designed to give the state the tools to compete for valuable data center projects. With the leadership of our economic development organizations, local community stakeholders, and our utility providers commitment to investing in tomorrow, this collective group has now brought one of the largest and most transformational global technology companies to Kansas City. We have also built a long-term strategy to ensure we can provide the infrastructure, labor, and tax certainty necessary to grow our mission-critical footprint for years to come.







This significant investment from Google speaks to the value of Missouris economic advantages and collaborative partnerships, said Michelle Hataway, Acting Director, Department of Economic Development. Were proud to support this historic project as Google joins a growing list of innovative companies that are helping Missourians prosper.







As part of its commitment to community development, Google announced it will bring its Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) program to the Kansas City area. The company is collaborating with the Missouri Works Initiative and the Urban League to help increase the entry-level pipeline in the skilled trades with a focus on underrepresented communities. All STAR pre-employment programs are paid training programs, and offer networking opportunities to help participants move directly into employment on local construction projects.







Technology employs one in 10 workers in Kansas City, said Tracey Lewis, President and CEO, Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City. Were thrilled that Googles presence will add to that significant and growing number of employment opportunities in our great community.







We are thrilled to partner with Google here in Kansas City and support their goal of building a connected and sustainable world for everyone. This project will bring lasting positive impacts to our hometown community, and our Centennial year is only amplified by bringing this partnership to our home! said Chris Teddy, Director of Mission Critical, JE Dunn Construction.







More than 65% of young people today will work in jobs that dont yet exist, but many arent developing the problem-solving skills and digital competencies required to prepare for this future. To help bridge the gap, Google is helping support the technology needs of North Kansas City School District with a more than $100,000 contribution to the STEAM center, which prepares high school students with the skills they need to tackle the futures biggest challenges and opportunities across a variety of disciplines.







North Kansas City Schools Superintendent Dr. Rochel Daniels says collaborating with Google will benefit students, Our collaboration will expand students access to innovative learning experiences by further leveraging technology and connecting student interests to real-world issues. We are grateful for this opportunity and look forward to a continued relationship with Google.







Our reliable, innovative energy solutions fuel the growth of tomorrows digital landscape. Were proud to power Googles investment in Kansas City and commend Google for its leadership in technology and commitment to sustainability. said David Campbell, President and CEO, Evergy Google is also announcing a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Ranger Power and DESRI to support 400 megawatts of new-to-the-grid carbon-free energy capacity from the Missouri-based Beavertail Solar farm. The Beavertail Solar farm is located in a former coal community and will be part of the evolution towards a clean energy future happening around the country. The agreement will support Googles ambitious 2030 goal to run all its data centers and campuses on carbon-free energy (CFE), every hour of every day. Today, the company already matches 100% of its global annual electricity consumption with renewable energy purchases and, as a pioneer in computing infrastructure, Googles data centers are some of the most efficient in the world.







Learn more about Google in Missouri at: g.co/economicimpact/missouri Source Google
Soon-to-debut screen couple Byeon Woo Seok and Kim Hye Yoon shared the struggles they went through while filming their new drama "Lovely Runner."

Keep on reading to know more about their upcoming series.

'Lovely Runner' Stars Byeon Woo Seok & Kim Hye Yoon Partner With Elle Korea

Ahead of the release of tvN's time-slip romance drama "Lovely Runner," its lead stars Byeon Woo Seok and Kim Hye Yoon collaborated with Elle Korea. They shared a glimpse of their soon-to-unveil chemistry and sat for an interview to talk more about their project.

The drama is scheduled to air on April 8 on tvN and will occupy the Monday and Tuesday slots. "Lovely Runner" features the story of a passionate fan, Im Sol, who travels back in time to save her idol Seon Jae from his death.

Byeon Woo Seok, who has starred in various time travel genre series is back at it again. He takes the role of Ryu Seon Jae, a top star who has been in the spotlight since his debut.

Byeon Woo Seok Feels Pressured Working On 'Lovely Runner'

During the interview, the actor shared that the scenes were vivid and beautiful. He also humbly said, "I knew I had to be the one to bring Sun Jae to life." The heartthrob is also grateful to his co-star Kim Hye Yoon, "Filming was tough at times, but Hye Yoon's cheerful energy helped me a lot. It made everything easier."

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:Did You Know? Kim Hye Yoon Had 50 Minor Roles Before She Rose To Fame

In relation to the narrative of their new drama, Byeon Woo Seok was asked if he would travel back in time and meet his first love like the characters in their series, and he answered, "I wouldn't go back because it might ruin those innocent childhood memories. I would rather keep them happy as they were."

Kim Hye Yoon Expresses Her Connection With Her Character

Meanwhile, Kim Hye Yoon, who will portray Im Sol, expressed her excitement for the drama. She said, "I love the script, but I admit I felt some pressure at first, thinking 'Could I really pull off her character?' But it was a good kind of pressure."

The young actress also confessed that the series gave her the opportunity to play a 30-year-old character, which she said is the oldest role she has ever played.

Kim Hye Yoon then talked about her connection with her character, "Im Sol's fate changes when she becomes a huge fan of Seon Jae. This reignites her will to live."

She added, "Playing her role allowed me to deeply empathize with the feelings of my fans. They always pen me letters, and experiencing Sol's journey really made me connect with the hearts behind those letters."

Kim Hye Yoon shared that portraying Im Sol's character made her realize how precious the bond between her and her fans is.

ALSO READ:Byeon Woo Seok & Kim Hye Yoon Deliver Exciting Chemistry in 'Lovely Runner' Stills

What are you excited about Byeon Woo Seok and Kim Hye Yoon's new drama? 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 San Miguel wrote this.
GLOBALink | Boao: transformation of a fishing village Pub Date:24-03-27 09:10 Source:Xinhua



Boao, a coastal town on China's island province of Hainan, has transformed from a nondescript fishing village to a high-level dialogue platform with great global influences, thanks to the successful hosting of Boao Forum for Asia (BFA). Produced by Xinhua Global Service Editor:Qin Shuying

Related News New progress in Anhui's deep space explora... Anhui: Spring tea harvesting in full swing Xinhua Headlines: Multinationals ready to ... China vows to further expand high-level op...


Wednesday, March 27, 2024  Actor and producer Zachery Ty Bryan has been charged with felony after his DUI arrest in February.

Legal documents obtained by TMZ showed that the "Home Improvement" alum was charged with the crime of driving under the influence with three or more priors within the last decade.

The felony complaint says Zachery refused to submit to a sobriety test. Cops also noted that the 42-year-old had a blood alcohol level of 0.15, nearly twice the legal limit.

It was also disclosed that the actor was involved in an accident on the night of his DUI arrest, resulting in property damage. He also allegedly failed to stop to provide his name and address after the accident. If convicted, he faces up to 3 years in prison.

Zachery was booked by La Quinta Police in the early hours of February 17 for DUI. After the incident, Zachery showed signs of impairment during a traffic stop which led to his arrest.

After his most recent arrest, Zachery was spotted hitting a couple bars in La Quinta, California, just few days after the bust. He went to an Applebee's and a place called Amigos. In both instances, he appeared to be sitting at the bar and having drinks.

The actor has had a number of legal run-ins in recent years, including a 2020 arrest for alleged DV and a 2023 arrest for another DV-related incident.


Wednesday, March 27, 2024  The U.S. Coast Guard has said the six workers missing after Tuesdays collapse of a major bridge in the eastern U.S. city of Baltimore are presumed dead.

The authorities said it was calling off the search-and-rescue mission for the six construction workers who went missing when a cargo ship struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early in the morning, sending it collapsing into the frigid Patapsco River and shutting down a critical artery for East Coast shipping.

It's now a recovery operation, according to Maryland State Police.

"We do not believe that we are going to find any of these individuals still alive," Coast Guard Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said.

Tuesday afternoon, Brawner Builders Executive Vice President Jeffrey Pritzker said the missing employees were presumed to have died given the waters depth and the amount of time that had passed since the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed.

This was so completely unforeseen, Pritzker said. We dont know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers. But we never foresaw that the bridge would collapse.

The company didn't name the employees, but Maria del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo 44 her husband, 49-year-old Miguel Luna, is one of them.

While access to the disaster zone is restricted, family members like Castellon were able to get in while they waited for news.

They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they cant give us information, she said earlier in the day.

[We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we dont know if theyve rescued them yet. Were just waiting to hear any news.

According to Jesus Campos, who worked alongside some of the victims for Brawner Builders for years, the men came from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico and became part of the community in Dundalk and Highlandtown.

As night fell, a somber Maryland Gov. Wes Moore expressed compassion for the families of those lost.

I cant imagine how painful today has been for these families, how painful these hours," he said. "Even though we've transitioned from a search and rescue to now a recovery mission, we will use every asset to make sure they find a sense of closure."

The crew was repairing potholes in the middle of the bridges span when a cargo ship hit it about 1:30 a.m. and crumbled the bridge.

Rescuers pulled two workers from the Patapsco River. One was hospitalized and released hours later.

Multiple vehicles also fell into the water, although authorities don't think anyone was inside them.


Wednesday, March 27, 2024  It seems Embakasi East Member of Parliament (MP) Babu Owino is tired of being a member of Raila Odingas Opposition.

This is after he unveiled his own team of vibrant leaders to put the Government of President William Ruto in check.

Speaking during a press conference with the members of the press, Babu cited laxity within Raila Odingas Opposition team in Kenya, defending his reason for creating a new team.

Members of the new team include MP for Githunguri Constituency Gathoni Wamuchomba, Saboti Constituency MP Caleb Amisi, Charles Nguna, Starehe constituency Amos Mwago, Busia Woman representative Catherine Omanyo and MP for Embakasi West Mark Mwenje.

This team will fight for the voiceless, and their rights in all the 8 regions, Babu Owino stated.

We have issues that we will be addressing from time to time. This is the team that will give direction in this country because we have seen a bit of laxity in the Opposition.

The legislator further vowed to help address the ongoing nationwide doctors strike, urging the members of the press to be part of the team in relying on their messages.

Not limited to holding rallies, not limited to calling for maandamanos; regional in all counties and constituencies, he added.

The six MPS further vowed to take action against Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha and her agriculture counterpart Mithika Linturi, accusing them of negligence in their duties.

Giving a seven-day ultimatum, the MPs threatened to file an impeachment motion against CS Nakhumicha if she failed to address the doctors strike that has since paralyzed the health sector country-wide.

Citing recent cases of fake fertilizers circulating the Kenyan market, the MPs also faulted agriculture CS Linturi for failing to tame the menace, and for the delayed distribution of subsidized fertilizers.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Tuesday, March 26, 2024  A commuter was struck and killed by a Manhattan subway train after being shoved onto the tracks by an emotionally disturbed person in an unprovoked attack, according to police.

The victim was pushed onto the tracks as a northbound 4 train was entering the East 125th Street and Lexington Avenue station in East Harlem just before 7 p.m. on Monday, March 25, police sources said.

The train was unable to stop in time and fatally struck the individual, an adult male whose identity has not been released.

The man was pronounced dead shortly after and a suspect, described as an emotionally disturbed person, was taken into custody, according to the sources. Charges are pending.





The deadly shove comes amid a surge of violent crime within the citys subway system including a high-profile deadly shooting on a crowded train car in Brooklyn earlier this month.

The number of felony assaults in the underground transit system jumped 53% last year from pre-pandemic times, with 570 such attacks in 2023 compared to 373 in 2019, data shows.

Its unclear what is causing the alarming trend, but some incidents point to mental illness as a potential contributing factor.





Half of the attacks on MTA workers in the subway system last year involved a suspect suffering from a mental illness. Of the 38 people charged with 41 separate assaults on transit system employees, 20 of them had documented psychological problems, according to a Post investigation.

Many of the individuals who assaulted the workers also had a criminal history.

Mondays alleged pusher was identified by sources as 24-year-old Carlton McPherson. McPherson has a prior assault arrest from October 2023, sources told The Post. He was freed on bond and is due back in court in July.





Watch a video of the suspect being led away below.


Tuesday, March 26, 2024  Federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations seized a number of electronic devices as part of the court-authorized searches of Sean "Diddy" Combs' two properties.

Law enforcement sources told ABC News that the searches, carried out in Los Angeles and Miami, were part of a federal trafficking investigation into the hip-hop and liquor mogul.

HSI agents flooded Diddy's LA mansion and gathered evidence as part of an investigation led by prosecutors with the Southern District of New York.

Four women have filed civil lawsuits against Combs accusing him of rape, trafficking, and other alleged abuses. He has denied all allegations of misconduct.

Several women have spoken with federal prosecutors in Manhattan, the sources said, who dispatched agents to try and gather evidence to corroborate their accounts.

In a statement to ABC News on Monday, an HSI spokesperson said the searches were executed "as part of an ongoing investigation" by HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and local law enforcement.

Law enforcement sources familiar with the matter said the searches were carried out at Combs' properties as part of a federal investigation led by the Southern District of New York into alleged human trafficking.

No criminal charges have been filed in the investigation.


Tuesday, March 26, 2024  A fake pastor who had at least 10 wives has been thrown in jail after marrying two women.

Orlando Coleman visited black churches across the US under the guise of a travelling bishop, collecting spouses as he went.

The 51-year-old would introduce himself to new congregations as a member of the clergy, and was able to dupe at least 10 different women into marrying him.

Coleman, from Houston, had presented himself as the founder of several churches as well as a Pentecostal preacher on social media.

Despite pleading guilty to bigamy in July 2023 and being placed on probation for marrying two women simultaneously, he wedded another woman two months later.

Now, he has been put behind bars for three years for marrying multiple women since 2019.

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg said: "At the heart of this repeat offenders schemes was a plan to defraud women and take advantage of them for financial gain.

"This man used the church to camouflage his scams and hide from any accountability or responsibility."





In Texas bigamy is defined as being married to more than one person at a time and carries a possible sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

Coleman's web of deceit started to unravel in 2021 when he married a woman in Houston, but his new wife saw he was receiving money from another woman in Virginia. When his then-current wife contacted the woman from Virginia it was revealed that she too was married to Coleman. Coleman's Houston wife then contacted the Harris County Sheriff's Office with the revelation, who in turn launched an investigation and filed bigamy charges.

In July 2023, Coleman pleaded guilty to bigamy in exchange for three years of deferred adjudication probation.

However, just two months later, while still married to the woman in Virginia, Coleman tied the knot again with another woman in Kentucky, committing another offense of bigamy.

Upon learning about Coleman's new marriage, prosecutors from the Harris County District Attorneys Office moved to revoke his probation.

In a hearing on March 11, a judge sentenced Coleman to three years in prison.

Prosecutors say Coleman married the women for housing and financial security. After introducing himself as a Protestant pastor or bishop, Coleman would propose marriage. If a woman accepted, he would move in with her and allow her to foot the cost of his housing and food.

"Thats the only thing he had to offer and to validate his word - the proposal to marry - that was something big," Assistant District Attorney Vanessa Goussen told The New York Times. "Getting proposed to was a big gesture for these women, and that corroborated his guise that hes a godly person."

Some of the women filed for divorce after Coleman fled to another state.

Coleman is currently being held at the Harris County Jail.


Wednesday, March 27, 2024  A New York judge on Tuesday, March 26 issued a gag order barring Donald Trump from making public statements about witnesses, prosecutors, court staff and jurors in his upcoming hush-money criminal trial.

Judge Juan M. Merchan cited Trumps previous comments about him and others involved in the case, as well as a looming April 15 trial date in granting the prosecutions request for a gag order.

It is without question that the imminency of the risk of harm is now paramount, Merchan wrote.

New York Prosecutors had asked for the gag order citing what they called his long history of making public and inflammatory remarks about people involved in his legal cases.

The order also bars Trump from making or directing others to make public statements about people involved in the trial, but it does not apply to the Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg because he is an elected official.

The gag order adds to restrictions put in place after Trumps arraignment last April that prohibit him from using evidence in the case to attack witnesses.
Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - Just hours after President William Ruto's directive for state corporations to remit 80 percent of their profits after tax to the Treasury, the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) has announced its intention to hand over Ksh5 billion for the full year ending June 2023.

President Ruto, in a renewed effort to bolster government revenues, declared, "The time is up for loss-making parastatals."

KPC Managing Director Joe Sang, alongside Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, affirmed that the dividend cheque would be presented to Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndungu today.

In December last year, KPC told parliament it had witnessed a 22.9 percent surge in profit for the year ended June, attributed to increased sales amidst the weakening shilling against major currencies.

The state-owned firm reported a profit before tax of Ksh7.5 billion, marking a notable improvement from pre-tax earnings of Ksh6.1 billion in the preceding year.

Ruto threatened to close all loss-making government institutions within three years.

During the period under review, throughput along KPCs pipelines experienced a six percent increase, reaching 8,675,034 cubic metres from 8,183,995 cubic metres.

This surge was further amplified by the substantial depreciation of the shilling, ultimately contributing to a boost in revenues.

Of significant note, KPC achieved a remarkable sales milestone of Ksh32.5 billion, indicating a notable 24 percent escalation from Ksh26.2 billion in the previous year.

The company attributes this impressive growth to heightened throughput, signalling a rising demand for fuel both domestically and in transit markets such as Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and DR Congo.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - Renowned Tiktoker and late Brian Chiras friend, Prince Mwiti, has accused members of Chiras burial committee of stealing money set aside for the funeral ceremony.

Speaking on Tiktok live after the burial, Mwiti claimed that Baba Talisha, MC Chris Kirubi, and MC Xtian, who were leading Chiras burial preparations, embezzled funds meant for the send-off ceremony.

They reportedly stole the money and bought Tiktok slay queens expensive liquor.

Mwiti called out Baba Talisha for using Chiras death to enrich himself, claiming that he could not account for the money used in the burial ceremony.

One of the Tiktokers based in Dubai had given Ksh 850,000 to Baba Talisha and other members of the burial committee to help in the final send-off, money that Mwiti claims was embezzled.

That was a joke of a burial. They stole money, Mwiti lamented.

Baba Talisha is one of the fakest people that I have ever met, added Mwiti.









Watch video.

The Kenyan DAILY POST.
Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - An upcoming rapper and content creator by the name of K Cent, who has been hawking his CDs in the streets of Nairobi, was shot and wounded outside Parliament on Tuesday afternoon.

Police claimed that the young rapper was a thief targeting motor vehicles for spares.

The cops alleged that K Cent had attacked a plain-clothed police officer who was trying to chase him from the area.

According to Nairobi police boss Adamson Bungei, the plain-clothed officer was hit and seriously wounded in the mouth, prompting him to open fire.

Bungei said hawking is prohibited along Parliament Road and that he did not know the shot victim was hawking CDs.

We have an officer seriously injured and is in hospital out of the drama, he said.

Witnesses said the rapper was shot and wounded in the neck by a police officer who was in civilian clothes.

There was more drama when police stopped an ambulance that had responded to the scene to rescue the victim.

This attracted a mob who shouted from a distance as the victim lay on the ground holding a piece of clothing against his bleeding wound.

He was picked up by a police Landcruiser and taken to the hospital.

Bungei said the victim sustained a serious wound in the neck.

He sustained an injury in the neck and has been rushed to hospital. He is stable and will be interviewed later, he said.





The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Wednesday, March 27, 2024  Muranga County Governor, Irungu Kangata, has been nominated for the Health Leadership Award for transforming healthcare in his county.

When he took power from his predecessor, Mwangi Wa Iria in 2022, Muranga County healthcare was very poor and hospitals like Muranga Level 5 Hospital looked like a cattle dip or a makeshift morgue

However, when he took over in September 2022, Kang'ata came up with brilliant transformation ideas like Kangata Care and the digitization of hospital records which was a first in the country.

Currently, Muranga County is leading in terms of healthcare and the Ministry of Health under the leadership of Dr Susan Nakhumicha wants to reward the first-time governor.

Speaking on Monday during World TB Celebrations Day, Nakhumicha said she is impressed by Kang'ata's healthcare program and his Uji Programme for School-going children.

Just sitting here and looking at the progress you have made like the Uji programme for school-going children that is a game changer because nutrition is the foundation of good health, Nakhumicha said.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Tuesday, March 26, 2024  Prince Harry has been named in a $30 million lawsuit against Sean Diddy Combs which accused the rapper of trafficking and abuse, it has been revealed.

Producer Rodney Lil Rod Jones filed a $30 million lawsuit against the music mogul, 54, last month, citing that he participated in acts such as misconduct, grooming, and trafficking.

According to the docs, Jones claimed that the Duke of Sus, 39, and other A-listers affiliation added to Diddys legitimacy.

This comes after Diddys Miami and Los Angeles mansions were raided. The homes were raided by federal agents and Homeland Security on Monday in a possible connection with the trafficking investigation.

Law enforcement sources said the feds moved in because they wanted to seize Diddys phones and computers. They also alleged there would be further raids on houses associated with the mogul in New York and Chicago.

Three women and a man were reportedly interviewed in the wake of the raids over allegations of trafficking, assault, and the solicitation and distribution of illegal narcotics and firearms.

Mr. Jones, who produced songs for Combs 2023 The Love Album: Off the Grid, has accused the rapper of ly assaulting him, and claims he threw parties attended by underage girls and workers, some of whom allegedly had drugs put in their drinks.

The producer claims he was ordered to recruit prostitutes for the parties, and he says he was required to work in the bathroom as the star showered naked behind a glass screen.

Combs has denied the allegations which have been made against him, calling them sickening. He has also called Mr Jones's claims pure fiction.

Mr Jones claims he endured constant unsolicited and unauthorized groping after agreeing to work with the star, claiming abuse happened at Combs homes in Florida, Los Angeles, and New York and on board a rented yacht.

The lawsuit names Combs son Justin, his chief of staff Kristina Khorram, and Universal Music Group CEO Sir Lucian Grainge as defendants. Mr Jones has also accused Motown Records, Love Records, and Universal Music Group of involvement by allegedly failing to monitor the activities of the rapper.

The lawsuit, which is contested, is seeking damages for trafficking, battery, assault, and harassment.

The court papers do not suggest that Harry was involved in any wrongdoing or criminal activity in conjunction with Diddy.

The UK royal is not a defendant nor has he been incriminated. His moniker also only appears once in the documents.


Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - An outspoken Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) senator has offered to help the family of the late renowned journalist Rita Tinina, who died of severe pneumonia.

Speaking during the burial of Rita Tinina in Narok County on Wednesday, Narok County senator, Ledama Ole Kina noted that he would support the late journalist's daughter and offered to pay for her school fees.

"But for the person who has been left behind, Robert, I want to tell you that we will also be there.

"We will support the young girl. Personally, I will sacrifice and at least ensure that even if it's secondary school, I will pay for her. I know Rita's mum and dad have died but all in all, it is what God has said," Ole Kina said.

The celebrated former NTV reporter was found dead at her home in Kileleshwa on Sunday, March 17, shocking many who revered her craft as a scribe.

Her funeral was attended by top media practitioners and politicians who respected Tinina during her period as a journalist.

She was survived by an eight-year-old daughter, Malaika.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, March 27, 2024  Azimio Leader Raila Odingas former aide Silas Jakakimba has defected from the ODM Party to President William Rutos United Democratic Alliance Party (UDA).

UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malalah received Jakakimba yesterday at the party headquarters in Nairobi.

Malalah expressed confidence that Jakakimba will be instrumental in advancing the UDA Party's agenda and strengthening its presence across the country.

Jakakimba brings with him a wealth of experience, having served as a long-standing aide to former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga.

"His decision to align himself with the UDA Party is a testament to our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive political landscape in Kenya, said Malalah.

The UDA SG urged UDA party members and supporters to embrace Jakakimba and work together with him.

Jakakimba on his part said joining UDA affirms the party's growing popularity in Nyanza and across the country.

He noted that having worked for Raila for 19 years it is important to remain eternally loyal to democratic ideals.

It is necessary that moving forward, all democrats agree that it is more important and urgent, to remain eternally loyal to democratic ideals and attendant principles of strong and accountable governance. That is the space where I am today, politically, said Jakakimba.

Jakakimba also commended Ruto for supporting the former Prime Ministers bid to become the African Union Council Chairperson.

Jakakimba further said he joined the ruling party willingly and would be available for any assignment in the party.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Wednesday, March 27, 2024  Sean 'Diddy' Combs has described himself as the victim of a 'witch hunt' over the 'military-level force' used against him during raids on his mansions.

Aaron Dyer, an attorney for the rapper, broke Combs' silence just over 24 hours after the Homeland Security investigation with a statement to DailyMail.

'Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr. Combs' residences. There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated,' Dyer said.

'Mr. Combs was never detained but spoke to and cooperated with authorities,' he added. 'Despite media speculation, neither Mr. Combs nor any of his family members have been arrested nor has their ability to travel been restricted in any way.'

Combs was seen speaking to customs agents at an airport 15 minutes from his Miami Beach Monday evening but never arrested.

'This unprecedented ambush -- paired with an advanced, coordinated media presence -- leads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr. Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits,' Dyer continued.

'There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations. Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name.'

The rapper, 54, has not been seen since homeland security agents descended on his properties in Miami and Los Angeles as part of their investigation into alleged trafficking.

Sources told Page Six that Combs was planning to fly to the Bahamas to spend time with his 17-year-old twins, Jessie and D'Lila, when the agents swooped in on his properties.

They gathered evidence including a 'number of' electronic devices, ABC News reports. No criminal charges have been filed, and Diddy has denied all allegations of sexual misconduct.

Flight data shows the rapper took off from the Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles at 9 am on Monday.

He was then spotted around 3 pm at the Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport, just a few hours after the raids started.

However, information on the rapper's personal LoveAir LLC Gulfstream 5 jet is no longer available on plane tracker service.

Diddy was last seen pacing around the customs office at the Miami airport, though he was not being detained in any fashion.

Meanwhile, two of his sons were detained at the scene of the Holmby Hills, California, home while the warrant was executed but released without charges.

Armed agents entered luxury properties on both East and West Coasts of the United States, with video footage showing helicopters circling overhead.

The agents, who were wearing vests, gathered in the home's backyard near the pool.

Multiple officers were seen carrying bags and boxes of evidence to a van with assistance from police dogs.

There was no immediate official confirmation about what precipitated the raids, but Diddy is currently embroiled in several lawsuits accusing him of assault.

It comes just weeks after one of Diddy's accusers was ordered to reveal her identity.

The rapper and music mogul has been fighting various legal battles, including one against an unnamed woman who claimed he and two friends sexually assaulted her when she was 17.


Wednesday, March 27, 2024  Diddy is no longer associated with Revolt TV after selling all his shares following raids on his Miami and Los Angeles mansions amid a sex trafficking investigation.

The Rap Mogul founded the media outlet alongside Andy Schuon in 2013. However, in November 2023, Diddy stepped down from his role as the companys chairman.

The exit came after he settled a bombshell sexual assault lawsuit with his ex, Cassie before he was then hit with more lawsuits from other alleged victims.

Initially, it was said Diddys break from Revolt was meant to be temporary, but things are now permanent. Insiders said the 54-year-old recently sold off all his Revolt shares for an undisclosed amount.

The buyers identity has yet to be revealed, but its reported the company is still Black-owned.

According to TMZ, Revolt's CEO Detavio Samuels and Chief Brand Officer Deon Graham will remain in their current positions and assist the owner.


Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina was among the politicians who attended the burial of seasoned journalist Rita Tinina at her family home in Noosupeni Farm Olokirikirai, Narok County

In his condolence message, Senator Ledama promised that he would pay for the education of the late Rita Tininas daughter since Ritas parents were also gone.

He also promised to stand by Robert Nagila, who was the partner to Rita.

To the family of Yiapan, Malaika and my brother Robert Nagila, poleni sana. Rita touched the lives of many, and I have many other political colleagues coming here to be with us.

"This is a difficult day and that is why I am wearing dark-colored clothes because we have lost a young person who has left a young child.

"It is very worrying and you find yourself asking God, why? Why did you take Rita away? A woman who put our village on the global map, Ole Kina said.

Ole Kina said Rita touched many lives and will be missed for long.

She touched the hearts of many and we will miss her for long. The only consolation that I have is that we are all on that path.

"We will follow her behind. When God then calls us, what will be said about us? Today weve heard many things about what Rita did. To the community, strengthen your hearts.

"To Malkia, we have your back. We will help you. Many people speak but Robert, we will be there to support the young girl, he added.

I will personally ensure I pay for her secondary school education because Ritas parents went ahead of her, said Senator Ledama.





Rita passed away a day before her 46th birthday at her Kileleshwa home following a bout of severe pneumonia

The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - Laikipia East Member of Parliament, Mwangi Kiunjuri, has praised President William Ruto for fulfilling the majority of promises he made to the Mt Kenya region.

Speaking as he joined the family and friends of Igwamiti Ward MCA Irene Wachuka alias Mama Yao at the farewell service of her husband John Ndumia Muturi at Nyahururu Stadium, Kiunjuri said Ruto had delivered 80% of his promises.

The former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary asked elected leaders in the Mt Kenya region to rally behind the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Kiunjuri further defended the president over claims of increased taxation, arguing that laws are made in the parliament and not by Ruto.

"The president and his government have delivered 80% of what we asked for as the people of Laikipia and Mount Kenya.

"Let us support the president. If people have complaints about taxation, we should remember laws are passed in parliament, not by the president.

"Let us support the president," he said.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - President William Ruto has directed all commercial state corporations to remit 80 per cent of their profits after tax to the National Treasury.

Speaking during a meeting with parastatal heads and CEOs of state corporations at State House Nairobi, Ruto threatened to close all loss-making government institutions in three years as he pushes full steam ahead toward a balanced budget.

"We will give you instructions on what to do with the other 20 per cent," he stated.

Ruto also ordered regulatory institutions to remit 90% of their surplus funds to the Treasury.

Our budgets and expenditures must be subjected to rigorous audit to eliminate abuse of public resources. We will leverage on technology to maximise on the value for money and boost service delivery, Ruto stated.

The time is up for loss-making parastatals, he added.

The president affirmed that state corporations must stop wasteful expenditure, including financing largesse in their parent ministries and unnecessary procurement.

Established under the State Corporations Act, state corporations include; the Central Bank of Kenya, the Kenya Revenue Authority, the Insurance Regulatory Authority, the Competition Authority of Kenya, and the Retirement Benefits Authority among others.

These institutions have for long been a bone of contention on whether or not Kenyans are getting value for money.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - Flashy car dealer Khalif Kairo is madly in love with an Instagram slay queen

He has been busy flaunting her on social media and taking her on lavish vacations.

They are currently out of the country for a vacation in India where he bought her a chain worth Ksh 350,000.

It is now emerging that Kairos girlfriend has a dark past and belongs to the streets.

According to Mwende Frey, who runs a massage parlour along the Eastern Bypass, Kairos girlfriend was an escort girl in Kahawa Sukari.

She had had an encounter with a lot of men in Kahawa Sukari.

Another social media user also informed Kairo that a lot of men also sampled her when she was living in Nakuru.

































The Kenyan DAILY POST.


Wednesday, March 27, 2024  The son of Guinea-Bissau's ex-president has been sentenced to over six years in prison by a US court for leading an international heroin trafficking ring.

Malam Bacai Sanha Jr, 52, planned to use the proceeds to fund his ambitions to become Guinea-Bissau's president through a coup, authorities say.

He is the son of Malam Bacai Sanha, who led the West African country from 2009 until his death in 2012.

Sanha Jr has been linked to a failed coup in February 2022. He was extradited to the US in August 2022, following his arrest in Tanzania a few weeks earlier.

His trial began soon afterwards and in September last year, he pleaded guilty to conspiring to illegally import drugs.

"Malam Bacai Sanha Jr wasn't any ordinary international drug trafficker," said FBI agent Douglas Williams on Tuesday.

"He is the son of the former president of Guinea-Bissau and was trafficking drugs for a very specific reason - to fund a coup that would eventually lead him to the presidency of his native country where he planned to establish a drug regime."

US authorities say Sanha Jr could be deported following his imprisonment as he is not an American citizen.

The 52-year-old, known as "Bacaizinho" in Guinea-Bissau, has held several roles in the government, including as his father's economic adviser.

He reportedly confessed that he was "personally involved" in the foiled 2022 coup attempt to unseat President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, which left 11 people dead, most of them members of the security forces.

Sanha Jr allegedly told US authorities that he used drug proceeds to fund the coup plotters, German state-owned broadcaster Deutsche Welle reported last year.
Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - The United States Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman has stated that several factors are behind the delay in deploying Kenyan police officers to Haiti.

Speaking during an official trip to Nyeri yesterday, Whitman listed the fact that the US Department of Defence feels it is necessary to set up a camp in Haiti, which the Kenyan officers will use during their operation in the Caribbean nation.

Whitman further outlined that the Kenyan police need to be trained to prepare them adequately for the mission on top of being vetted.

The former corporate executive further outlined that the parties financing the mission, need time to put in place frameworks to bankroll the operation.

"These are very complicated missions. This is not a UN peacekeeping mission. It is a different kind of mission," Whitman noted.

Kenyan Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei has also cited the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry as a factor derailing the deployment.

While clarifying the delay in disbursement of the funds meant for the mission, the US envoy noted the United Nations was still in the process of setting up a trust fund.

The trust fund would be used to collect the donations made by different countries to fund the multinational mission in Haiti and Kenya can only access the funds once the trust fund is set up.

There is the UN Trust fund that needs to be set up so that Kenya can be given the money to undertake the Haiti mission and these things take time, Meg Whitman noted.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Tuesday, March 26, 2024  The United States Government on Tuesday, March 26, indicted cryptocurrency exchange KuCoin and its two founders, Chun Gan and Ke Tang on criminal charges.

Chun Gan and Ke Tang are charged with failing to implement anti-money laundering protocols and allowing more than $5 billion worth of criminal funds to flow through its trading platform.

Chun Gan and Ke Tang are facing penalties for money transmission and Bank Secrecy Act violations, which specifically cited a multibillion-dollar criminal conspiracy.

This was contained in a press release from the United States Southern District of New York, naming them for their role in the alleged illegal activity.

The indictment was announced by US Attorney of the Southern District of New York, Damian Willians, and Homeland Security Investigations New York Field Office head, Darren McCormack.

The unsealed document stated that the exchange flouted US anti-money laundering laws to grow KuCoin into one of the worlds largest cryptocurrency exchanges.

Attorney Williams said the exchange deliberately sought to conceal the number of US users on the platform.

The document also alleged that KuCoin took advantage of the sizeable US customer base to become one of the worlds largest exchanges, describing the development as a criminal conspiracy.




Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - Githunguri Member of Parliament, Gathoni Wamuchomba, has revealed why she has decided to join the opposition in criticizing the Kenya Kwanza Alliance government.

On Tuesday, Wamuchomba, who was elected to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, was spotted together with Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, when they criticized President William Rutos regime over how it is handling the ongoing doctors strike.

Speaking on Wednesday, Wamuchomba said she joined Babu Owino because "all voices of reason are fading away".

She said such voices, including those of civil society groups, are fading away.

She alleged that the opposition is currently silenced and that the media, which used to be one of the tools to keep the state in check also seems intimidated.

"The opposition in Kenya seems to have been muzzled and the voices of reason are fading away. The voices of reason from civil society are fading away.

"The media seems to be intimidated. I have been in the media, he has been in the media for many years and we can confidently tell you that the vigour and the muscle the media had to check over government is no longer there," Wamuchomba said.

The legislator noted that she looked around and that the only way her voice could be heard was to team up with like-minded individuals from within parliament.

Wamuchomba said that this way, they can have a bigger voice of reason in parliament.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
A Kilkenny City based software business, Mindaclient, will represent Co Kilkenny at the National Enterprise Awards. The long established, export business has been nominated to represent the county at the 24th awards staging of the ceremony which will be held in the Round Room at the Mansion House, Dublin on Thursday, May 23.

The operation has grown from directors Brian Kelly and Robert Downes since its inception to now having nine full time employees.

MindaClient is a Kilkenny based software platform that provides tailored solutions to businesses and organisations. Their key products are Scholarship management, Counselling software systems, tailored CRM solutions, trading locally, nationally and internationally.

Mindaclient have availed of Local Enterprise Office (LEO) grant assistance which has supported the growth and development of the business over the years. In recent times, they have completed one to one mentoring programmes and the Technical Assistance for Micro Exporters grant to support their expansion in the export market.

The Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr. Michael Doyle made a presentation to the Directors of Mindaclient and said: "We would like to congratulate Brian, Robert and the Mindaclient team on their achievements to date and wish them all the best in the next stages of the competition," adding, "the National Enterprise Awards provides an opportunity to highlight the achievements and contribution of small business and showcase their success. These enterprises are based in our cities, local towns and rural communities and are making strides in, employment, new product development, environmental protection and innovation."

Commenting on the importance of supporting small businesses to consider export markets Aileen McGrath, Acting Head of Enterprise with the Local Enterprise Office, commented: "Mindaclient are a shining example of a local businesses globalising and reaching into international markets with their software all from their base in Kilkenny with a broad range of customers from local charities to international education providers."
The time has come to ban all use of vapes or e-cigarettes, according to former Mayor of Kilkenny and candidate in this years local elections Sean O hArgain.

The Carlow/Kilkenny constituency motion he proposed to Labour Party conference at the weekend was overwhelmingly passed by the conference and accepted by party spokesperson, Duncan Smith TD.

Speaking on the motion, Mr O hArgain said he was speaking as a frustrated parent and on behalf of dozens of families who expressed similar frustrations with the huge growth of vape use among young people in particular.

"The explosion of the sale and use of vapes has taken our society by surprise and left our government almost powerless in the face of this growing health crisis. Our city and town streets have suddenly become flooded with vape shops and our filling stations and supermarkets have seen these unregulated, untested and dangerous products pushed in our faces, while cigarettes are rightly being tightly controlled and locked away from public view," he said.

"The 20-year anniversary of the smoking ban in workplaces and social spaces is being utterly undermined by the arrival of vapes. Let us be quite clear. This is the fightback by the cigarette industry after a hugely successful and expensive information and public health campaign by successive governments over that time. The cynical targeting of teenagers and young adults sees Tik Tok and Instagram flooded with advertising aimed at young people shows how these companies are determined to win back our young people to addiction, poor health and indeed potential serious illness and even death.

"The Australian government have taken the clearest action so far. They have introduced a total ban on the production and importation of vapes, with the exception of the tiny minority of people whose doctors certify that they need to use these products to help them stop smoking tobacco."

The Labour Party candidate welcomed the recent government ban on sales of vapes to under 18 year olds, but questioned how this is and will be policed.

"We need to have the ability to check that this is being followed through. We all know that the purchase of alcohol and cigarettes by those over 18 for those who are younger presents huge challenges," he said.

"Ultimately, however, we need to take these dangerous products out of circulation totally. Our party in Kilkenny stood against the so-called Head Shops in our city in 2010. We picketed these premises and held public meetings on the issue. The Minister for Health eventually listened and closed the shops and seized the products overnight. We need the same approach to these dangerous and unregulated products immediately.

"We also need a serious discussion about online advertising of these products. Young people see the vast majority of advertising on their phones and their other electronic devices.

Mr O hArgain said he was also hugely concerned at the environmental damage being caused by the products.

"The dangerous materials in the batteries and casing of vapes are of major concern, while Keep Kilkenny Beautiful and other council refuse staff have noted the huge increase of vape-related litter on our streets," he said.

Mr O hArgain also spoke on two issues during the live televised session of the conference, calling for a huge increase in the building of social housing in Kilkenny and throughout the country. He paid tribute to the recently deceased former TD and Housing Minister, Emmet Stagg, who hugely increased the building of social housing in the 1990s.

"We need to return to the state and our councils building houses for our young families, immediately and I commit to this being my number one priority if elected as a councillor," he said.

He also spoke on local government reform, saying that the recent report showing Ireland as having the fourth worst system of local government in Europe should lead to the immediate re-establishment of Kilkenny City Council and other town and city councils.

"The so-called Better Local Government action of ten years ago has had a hugely negative effect on democracy in our cities and towns. It should be reversed as Fianna Fail and the Greens promised. I would particularly call on our local Junior Minister for Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, to explain why this promise is being broken," he said.
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Focus Ireland have launched its Voter Registration Drive Campaign on March 26th in the GPO in Dublin.

With support from An Post, using their Addresslink service. This will provide a psotal address and eircode to those that are homeless, allowing them to register and partake in upcoming elections. This event will encourage political engagement by people who are homeless or are at risk of people homeless and allow all Irish voices to be heard in the election.

Focus Ireland believe in the power that every person's vote has power and every voice should be heard.

The campaign hopes to secure an additional 2-3 thousand extra votes in the upcoming election.

Voter participation in marginalised groups generally have a lower turnout, these are the people who are most dependent on the services of the state and who are most affected by decisions made by the elected officials.
Ireland is to intervene in South Africas genocide case against Israel at the top court in the United Nations.

Micheal Martin, Irelands deputy leader, said that he had been told there is a basis for an intervention in the high-profile case.

A Declaration of Intervention is now being prepared for the Irish government to approve and will be filed once South Africa has filed its substantive case.

South Africa has taken a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) accusing it of a genocide in Gaza.

Irelands intervention is expected to focus on prioritising the protection of civilians.

The intervention will not mean Ireland is stating Israel is committing genocide, which is a matter for the court to decide.

According to local health authorities, more than 30,000 people have been killed and a further 70,000 injured in the Gaza Strip since the start of Israels military offensive in the Palestinian enclave.

The UN said that a quarter of the regions 2.3 million population face starvation and around 80% have fled their homes.

The offensive was launched after a Hamas attack in southern Israel that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and saw around 250 hostages taken, some of whom are still held captive.

An interim ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza but stopped short of ordering a ceasefire.

It could be years before the case reaches a final judgment.

Speaking on Wednesday, Foreign Affairs minister Mr Martin said he has given legal staff in his department direction to pursue a legal intervention into the South African case at the ICJ.

He said that he requested that very serious legal work be done as the tests that are applied under the Genocide Convention are very narrow and have a very high threshold.

He said the issue would be brought back to government for a more formal decision when South Africa files its case and when further legal work is done.

I had asked my legal staff to do preliminary legal work, last week I was briefed by my legal team in that respect and we believe we have a basis now for an intervention, obviously more substantive work has to be done.

South Africa has yet to table its substantive memorial and that will be some months away yet.

He said involving a third party in an ICJ case is a rare and complex matter.

This will be Irelands fourth time getting involved in cases before the ICJ; it also intervened in the Ukraine vs Russia case.

Mr Martin said the rapidly deteriorating situation in Gaza was now a humanitarian catastrophe.

Clearly, aid is being prevented from going in, but the most vital essentials of life are being prevented from going into Gaza.

This constitutes significant harm and destruction to a people, and to the people of Gaza.

He added: As the UN Secretary General said as he inspected long lines of blocked relief trucks waiting to enter Gaza during his visit to Rafah at the weekend; it is time to truly flood Gaza with life-saving aid. The choice is clear: surge or starvation. I echo his words today.
There is finally some good news on the weather front as a potential band of stormy weather that was seemingly heading toward Ireland is now going to hit England instead.

The update comes amid unsettled conditions nationwide with people left hoping for an upturn in weather fortunes before the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

Alan O'Reilly from Carlow Weather gave the somewhat positive update: "In some potential good news for Bank Holiday Monday the latest charts show that low system heading for England rather than Ireland. Could change again yet but a positive update."

However, Met Eireann's forecast for the week and right into the Easter weekend is not good news with more rain and wind affecting much of the country.

Their outlook says: "Unsettled with frequent rain and showers, and the possibility of some flooding. Blustery at times also."

For Tuesday, they say "rain will continue over Connacht, Ulster, west Munster and north Leinster this afternoon. Turning brighter elsewhere with scattered heavy showers developing, bringing a chance of hail and isolated thunderstorms. Highest temperatures of 6 to 10 degrees in moderate northeast to east winds.

"Early tonight [Tuesday], rain will linger in Ulster, with a mix of clear spells and showers elsewhere. More persistent rain will develop in the south and southwest later, spreading northwards to most areas by morning. Lowest temperatures of 1 to 5 degrees in light to moderate easterly winds becoming southeasterly later."

The forecast continues: "Outbreaks of rain will gradually clear northwards on Wednesday morning and early afternoon. Sunny spells and showers will follow from the south for the rest of the day. Some showers will be heavy with the chance of hail and isolated thunderstorms, and with sleet possible on hills. Cool with highest temperatures of 5 to 9 degrees in moderate to fresh southeast to south winds.

"Wednesday night will be cold with showers mainly affecting Munster, Leinster and east Ulster, a few of them wintry on hills. Longer drier periods further west with clear spells. Lowest temperatures of -1 to 4 degrees, coldest over the western half of the country with frost and icy patches possible.

"Thursday will continue cold with bright or sunny spells and showers of rain or hail. These will be heaviest and most frequent in the east and north and a few may be thundery. Highest temperatures of 7 to 9 degrees with moderate northerly winds becoming westerly. On Thursday night, showers will become become isolated with clear spells and frost developing. Lowest temperatures of -1 to +2 degrees and light southerly or variable breezes."

For the Easter weekend, Met Eireann says "Good Friday will bring a mix of sunshine and showers. Some of the showers may be heavy with a continuing possibility of hail and thunder. Highest temperatures of 8 to 11 degrees with light to moderate southerly winds. Friday night will be another cold night with lowest temperatures of -2 to +4 degrees, coldest in the west.

"Easter Saturday will be somewhat milder with bright or sunny spells and some further showers, but not as many as previous days. Highest temperatures of 9 to 12 degrees with light breezes.

"Easter Sunday looks like being mainly dry with sunny spells and just a few showers. Highest temperatures of 10 to 12 degrees with light easterly breezes."

They conclude: "At the moment Easter Monday looks like being a wet day with rain spreading westwards over the country."
Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board Youth Office (KCETB) has partnered with South East Technological University (SETU) to launch an insightful and innovative research report, I feel like I am heard, in SETU, Carlow on March 21.

The report explored the experiences of young people, and looked at good work practices for working with young people who are not in employment, education or training (NEET). The research and supporting toolkit examined effective strategies for engaging and supporting young people who face barriers to education and training.

The research was initiated and commissioned by KCETB Youth Office and funded by KCETB in partnership with County Carlow Development Partnership (CCDP), Kilkenny Leader Partnership (KLP), and SETU.



The research was conducted by Chloe Johnstone, research student with SETU, between December 2021 and November 2023 . The Foroige Youth Skills Project shared crucial expertise and supported SETU in capturing young peoples experiences.

The research report and toolkit are the culmination of extensive research and collaboration between SETU, KCETB, Foroige and the research steering committee, emphasising the pivotal role of community organisations in empowering NEET young people.

The research and toolkit provide a comprehensive array of strategies, insights, and practical tools tailored specifically to the diverse needs of NEET young people. From identifying local resources to offering guidance on skill-building and career exploration, the booklet and toolkit provide invaluable support to empower NEET young people on their journey towards meaningful pathways.

KCETB wants to ensure that its future work in this area is informed by a strong evidence base, one that synthesised findings from the latest international literature with the experience and expertise of local partners and young people. KCETB also believes that such research could help inform future iterations of national funding programmes targeting NEET young people.

As a university we were honoured to partner with KCETB, Kilkenny Leader Partnership, Carlow County Development Partnership and Foroige on this important project, said Dr Niamh McCrea, senior lecturer with the Department of Humanities with SETU.

Deepening our partnerships with voluntary and community organisations and undertaking research that has local impact are key strategic objectives for the university and this project contributes to their realisation in a meaningful way. Most importantly, we are delighted to have played a role in helping youth services to support NEET young people to realise their full potential.

Eileen Curtis, Chief Executive of KCETB said: KCETB aspiration for all those with whom we engage is that the flourish through learning and our core belief is that learning has the power to change lives and build communities. KCETBs Youth Office works to support the provision, coordination, administration, and assessment of youth work throughout Kilkenny and Carlow.

Our Youth Officers work in partnership with a range of youth work providers, and statutory and voluntary agencies and collaborative initiatives like this are essential in addressing the complex challenges which can face NEET young people.

In addition to benefiting NEET youth, the research booklet and toolkit serve as valuable resources for youth workers and other professionals involved in education, community organisations, and policymakers. By promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the community, the aim is to create a supportive environment that supports all young people to thrive.

For more information about the Research Booklet and Toolkit, visit www.kcetb.ie.
Heat Transfer a Hundred Times Better

Together with her team, the process engineer has developed a heat storage system based on lead-bismuth. She is among the first researchers worldwide using liquid metals in heat storage systems. Thermal conductivity of liquid metals is 100 times higher than that of other materials, Niedermeier says. That is why liquid metals are very well suited for transporting and transferring heat.

The researcher has been working on the technology for six years now. The 35-year-old engineer wants to help branches with a high resource consumption to better use the weather-dependent renewable energy sources. Industry processes in Germany consume 400 terawatt hours of heat per year, corresponding to 20 percent of the countrys total energy consumption. Steel, glass, and concrete are processed, molten, and dried at temperatures of up to 3000 C every day. And these temperatures must be kept on a stable level. 90 percent of the fuels used for these processes are of fossil nature, the engineer explains. This must be changed.

First approaches have been tested already, such as the electrification of processes or the use of hydrogen as energy carrier. With her liquid metal-based heat storage system, Niedermeier wants to mitigate fluctuations of power supply from renewable sources and to enable simple, inexpensive, and rapid energy storage at temperatures that are as close as possible to those of industrial processes.

Ceramic Beads as Storage Material

The new type of systems works as follows: Circulating liquid lead-bismuth is heated to more than 700 C using electrical power. Then, the liquid metal passes through small, white ceramic beads in a steel tank and releases its heat to them. When the heat is needed again, the cooled liquid metal is returned through the beads and, thus, heated to more than 700 C. The simulations run by Klarissa Niedermeier and her team at KITs liquid-metal laboratory KALLA (KArlsruhe Liquid Metal LAboratory) confirm that lead-bismuth allows for a more rapid heating of the heat storage system. Moreover, its packing can be denser than in case of gas. Smaller tubes, less space, less costs, and less time are needed.

Why did nobody think of using liquid metal in heat storage systems before? The first reason is a logistic one, Niedermeier points out. There are only few closed loop systems in the world, in which such a heat storage system can be tested. KALLA has a big lead-bismuth cycle that was built to study the cooling of fuel rods in times of nuclear research. Meanwhile, it is used for new projects in the area of renewable energy sources. The cycle has been in operation for more than 20 years now. During this time, the team has gained vast know-how, Niedermeier explains. Moreover, liquid metals are highly corrosive, especially at high temperatures. KIT is developing special steel alloys for the pipelines and loops of the system.

The other reason why only few researchers work with liquid metals in heat storage systems is of physical nature: In principle, these metals cannot store heat well. First, you must have the idea to use liquid metal as a transport means only and not as a storage material in the tank, the engineer explains.

Partnerships Wanted for 700 Celsius and More

In spite of all advantages, Niedermeier points out: There are still many open questions. So far, the heat storage system has been tested at only up to 400 C and the system has not yet been optimized. The team is looking for a cheaper storage material and is trying to further improve energy density. Moreover, pumps and valves must be tested for use with molten lead-bismuth at temperatures above 500 C.

At Hannover Messe, Niedermeiers team hopes to establish contacts to companies running energy-intensive high-temperature processes or producing waste heat at high temperatures and wishing to store it. At the worlds biggest trade show, the team will present a model of the heat storage system. Its size will be about half that of the real system at KIT that is designed for the storage of 100 kilowatt hours of heat. Niedermeier explains: This is the first liquid-metal heat storage system of this kind worldwide having such a capacity. We want to show that the principle works and that its potential for the defossilization of industry is great.

Isabelle Hartmann, March 25, 2024

Translated by Dipl.-Ubers. Maike Schroder
Simeon Brown announced:

Cabinet has agreed on the coalition Government's direction of travel for a new Land transport Rule to be signed by the end of 2024. This new rule will reverse the previous government's blanket speed reductions imposed on motorists across New Zealand, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.

The new rule will ensure that when speed limits are set, economic impacts  including travel times  and the views of road users and local communities are taken into account, alongside safety.

The previous government's untargeted approach resulted in blanket speed limit reductions across the country, rather than targeting high crash areas of the network. The new Rule will lead to blanket speed limit reductions being reversed by the end of next year, except where it is unsafe.
A house in Columbia is pictured the day of an open house. | Clayton Steward/Missouri Business Alert
There are no known victims in the water who were in vehicles on the bridge at the time of the accident.
Columbia Trust Co 01012016 lessened its stake in shares of Badger Meter, Inc. (NYSE:BMI  Free Report) by 7.2% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 5,218 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock after selling 407 shares during the period. Columbia Trust Co 01012016s holdings in Badger Meter were worth $806,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of BMI. Asset Management One Co. Ltd. purchased a new position in shares of Badger Meter during the 3rd quarter worth $35,000. CWM LLC raised its holdings in shares of Badger Meter by 33.3% during the 3rd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 532 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $77,000 after acquiring an additional 133 shares during the period. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new position in shares of Badger Meter during the 1st quarter worth $91,000. State of Wyoming raised its holdings in shares of Badger Meter by 168.4% during the 2nd quarter. State of Wyoming now owns 714 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $105,000 after acquiring an additional 448 shares during the period. Finally, GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC raised its holdings in shares of Badger Meter by 2,392.9% during the 4th quarter. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC now owns 698 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $108,000 after acquiring an additional 670 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 89.01% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Badger Meter

In other news, VP Fred J. Begale sold 1,203 shares of Badger Meter stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $162.92, for a total value of $195,992.76. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now owns 2,181 shares in the company, valued at approximately $355,328.52. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In related news, VP Fred J. Begale sold 1,203 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $162.92, for a total transaction of $195,992.76. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 2,181 shares in the company, valued at $355,328.52. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, VP William R. A. Bergum sold 194 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $159.55, for a total value of $30,952.70. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 13,672 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,181,367.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 2,813 shares of company stock valued at $448,167 in the last three months. 0.80% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts have recently commented on the company. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price target on Badger Meter from $142.00 to $147.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Monday, January 29th. StockNews.com downgraded Badger Meter from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, February 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $147.50.

Read Our Latest Research Report on BMI

Badger Meter Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:BMI traded down $1.07 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $157.50. 114,194 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 182,059. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $153.69 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $150.21. The stock has a market cap of $4.62 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 50.16, a P/E/G ratio of 3.84 and a beta of 0.85. Badger Meter, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $117.07 and a fifty-two week high of $170.86.

Badger Meter (NYSE:BMI  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Friday, January 26th. The scientific and technical instruments company reported $0.84 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.82 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $182.40 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $182.24 million. Badger Meter had a return on equity of 19.07% and a net margin of 13.16%. Badger Meters revenue was up 23.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.60 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Badger Meter, Inc. will post 3.4 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Badger Meter Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 8th. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 23rd were given a $0.27 dividend. This represents a $1.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.69%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 22nd. Badger Meters dividend payout ratio is currently 34.39%.

Badger Meter Profile

(Free Report)

Badger Meter, Inc manufactures and markets flow measurement, quality, control, and communication solutions worldwide. It offers mechanical or static water meters, and related radio and software technologies and services to municipal water utilities market. The company also provides flow instrumentation products, including meters, valves, and other sensing instruments to measure and control fluids going through a pipe or pipeline, including water, air, steam, and other liquids and gases to original equipment manufacturers as the primary flow measurement device within a product or system, as well as through manufacturers' representatives.

Further Reading

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OmniStar Financial Group Inc. increased its position in Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Free Report) by 2.7% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 6,255 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 163 shares during the period. OmniStar Financial Group Inc.s holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S were worth $647,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Jennison Associates LLC increased its position in Novo Nordisk A/S by 100.3% in the 3rd quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 23,419,405 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,129,761,000 after acquiring an additional 11,727,507 shares during the period. Polen Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in Novo Nordisk A/S in the 3rd quarter valued at about $718,995,000. FMR LLC increased its position in Novo Nordisk A/S by 122.7% in the 3rd quarter. FMR LLC now owns 12,077,501 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,098,328,000 after acquiring an additional 6,654,614 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley increased its position in Novo Nordisk A/S by 96.5% in the 3rd quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 9,215,098 shares of the companys stock valued at $838,021,000 after acquiring an additional 4,526,199 shares during the period. Finally, Loomis Sayles & Co. L P increased its position in Novo Nordisk A/S by 91.7% in the 3rd quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P now owns 9,097,808 shares of the companys stock valued at $827,354,000 after acquiring an additional 4,350,862 shares during the period. 11.54% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Novo Nordisk A/S alerts:

Novo Nordisk A/S Price Performance

Shares of NVO traded up $0.35 on Tuesday, reaching $129.40. The stock had a trading volume of 4,217,089 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,281,713. The firm has a market capitalization of $580.69 billion, a PE ratio of 47.84, a PEG ratio of 2.12 and a beta of 0.41. The company has a quick ratio of 0.64, a current ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $120.88 and a 200 day moving average of $103.65. Novo Nordisk A/S has a twelve month low of $75.56 and a twelve month high of $138.28.

Novo Nordisk A/S Increases Dividend

Novo Nordisk A/S ( NYSE:NVO Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, January 31st. The company reported $0.71 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.66 by $0.05. Novo Nordisk A/S had a return on equity of 90.36% and a net margin of 36.03%. The firm had revenue of $9.51 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $9.14 billion. Sell-side analysts expect that Novo Nordisk A/S will post 3.35 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently announced a Semi-Annual dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, April 2nd. Investors of record on Monday, March 25th will be paid a $0.664 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, March 22nd. This represents a yield of 0.9%. This is a positive change from Novo Nordisk A/Ss previous Semi-Annual dividend of $0.22. Novo Nordisk A/Ss dividend payout ratio is presently 49.17%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts recently issued reports on the company. Morgan Stanley began coverage on Novo Nordisk A/S in a research report on Tuesday, January 23rd. They issued an overweight rating and a $120.00 price target on the stock. TD Cowen boosted their target price on Novo Nordisk A/S from $105.00 to $115.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, December 4th. Cantor Fitzgerald reiterated an overweight rating and set a $160.00 target price on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a research report on Wednesday, March 20th. Finally, UBS Group began coverage on Novo Nordisk A/S in a research report 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 issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Novo Nordisk A/S presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $126.25.

View Our Latest Report on NVO

Novo Nordisk A/S Profile

(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.

Further Reading

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).

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By Park Jae-hyuk

HD Hyundais top executives invited foreign shipyard workers to a luncheon at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) VIP guest house in Ulsan to better understand their difficulties and improve morale, the company said Wednesday.

During the event, HD Hyundai Chairman Kwon Oh-gap met with 42 foreign workers from Vietnam, Uzbekistan and five other countries, who work as subcontracted workers at shipyards at HD HHI and HD Hyundai Mipo.

HD HHI CEOs Lee Sang-kyun and Roh Jin-yul, as well as HD Hyundai Mipo CEO Kim Hyung-kwan, also attended the meeting.

We will do our best for you to stay healthy and return to your homelands with glory, Kwon said at the luncheon. Please prioritize your safety while working.

HD Hyundai said that the foreign workers expressed their gratitude to the company for providing translation services and providing opportunities to learn Korean to improve their understanding regarding their jobs.

I am aware that the company has made various efforts for foreign workers, Rustamjon, a worker from Uzbekistan, was quoted as saying by HD Hyundai. I will do my best to adapt and contribute to the company.

HD HHI is the nations first shipbuilder to establish an in-house foreigner support center, which hires translators for eight different languages. The company has also offered customized meals for workers who are unfamiliar with Korean food and those who cannot eat certain ingredients for religious reasons.

In addition, the shipbuilder published safety guidelines written in foreign languages, while carrying out special safety training for foreign workers.

To reduce prejudice against foreign workers, HD HHI also produced a musical that tells the story of foreign workers in Ulsan and invited the citys residents to watch the show for free.
By Joschka Fischer

BERLIN  The Franco-German relationship has always been complicated and never free of conflict or tension. Everyone understands that cooperation between these two key European Union countries is necessary and in the interest of the entire bloc. Nonetheless, they have never fully overcome their current  and historic  rivalry.

One reason is that France and Germany are equally strong, albeit in different dimensions. Over the past seven decades of gradual European unification, Germany  though divided between 1945 and 1990  was economically powerful but diplomatically diffident. France, by contrast, boasted military and cultural strengths and an unbroken tradition as a European power. Following Germanys defeat in World War II, Charles de Gaulle made a point of fully asserting Frances renewed confidence.

Germany was the exact opposite. At the end of WWII, it was a failed power with a reputation for triggering European disasters. The German state and culture had come to be defined by the complete moral bankruptcy of the Hitler era. The Nazis had dragged Germany into a state of barbarism, deploying modern technologies and pseudoscientific theories to commit genocide against European Jews, Roma, and others, and to lay waste to large swaths of the European continent. In short, the Germans had Hitler, who had led them into the abyss, leaving a lasting legacy of shame, whereas the French had de Gaulle, the savior of the nation in its darkest hour.

Of course, both countries also shared a much older enmity. By the time of WWII, the two powers had been warring for centuries (not least because Germany contributed to the rise of Protestantism, whereas France remained a bastion of Catholicism). France has a long tradition as a nation-state, while the first political unification of Germany happened very late, in 1871. All that history would have to be overcome if a post-Nazi Germany was to be successfully integrated into a new European order. If there was any chance of renewed Franco-German hostilities, a lasting peace would remain out of reach.

Fortunately, Europe managed to establish a new security order, with the decisive assistance of the United States, starting with the founding of NATO in 1949, followed by the formation of the European Coal and Steel Community in 1951. That led to the creation of the European Economic Community in 1957, and then to German reunification in 1990. German Chancellor Helmut Kohl and French President Francois Mitterrand played leading roles in drafting the Maastricht Treaty, which formally established the EU when it came into force in 1993.

Today, Germany and France remain the two largest, most powerful EU member states, in terms of both population and the size of their economies. France also is a nuclear power and a permanent (veto-wielding) member of the United Nations Security Council. When France and Germany are aligned, they can generally bring the rest of Europe along with them.

Such unity and resolve have become more important than ever since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched his unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine. Add in the possibility of former US President Donald Trump returning to the White House, and the imperative to bolster Europes defenses becomes even more urgent.

To that end, one of the most immediate priorities is to preserve Ukraines independence and sovereignty. That objective must be central to French and German leaders strategic vision. But the leaders of Europes two most important countries have instead been publicly butting heads and contradicting each other.

Earlier this month, French President Emmanuel Macron said he would not rule out sending troops to Ukraine, prompting a direct rebuke from German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Now, the two leaders, along with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, are scrambling to present a united front once again. Putin must be smirking gleefully over the self-inflicted wound.

Petty debates about who is prettier, stronger, or more in charge are the last thing Europe needs. We are dealing with a war of conquest that has now entered its third year. Russia wants to erase its neighbor from the map. This is not only about Ukraines freedom. It is about the entire European continent.

The French and German leaders should set some new ground rules. Any disputes between them must be settled behind closed doors, and no one should issue any public statements until everyone is on the same page. Contradicting pronouncements by major EU leaders are music to Putins ears.

These are strange times. Should Putin succeed in his war, he will surely continue westward. And if Europe is unlucky, it could wake up in November to another looming Trump presidency. We would be stuck between a warring, imperial Russia and an isolationist America. If France and Germany are still openly quarreling, a perilous situation could rapidly become much worse.

Joschka Fischer, Germanys foreign minister and vice chancellor from 1998 to 2005, was a leader of the German Green Party for almost 20 years. This article was distributed by Project Syndicate.
President, PPP grapple with dismal approval ratings

By John Burton

The National Assembly elections on April 10 will be a make or break moment for President Yoon Suk Yeol.

A victory for the opposition means that Yoon will be reduced to lame duck status for the rest of his term, which ends in 2027. But if he manages to gain a plurality or majority of parliamentary seats, it would mean that he could finally get started on his domestic reforms, two years after his inauguration in May 2022. The current opposition-controlled National Assembly has so far blocked most of the presidents proposals.

The election outlook is uncertain due to the fracturing of the two main political parties  Yoons People Power Party (PPP) and the opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK). Although PPP has had a narrow lead over the DPK in recent polls, the proliferation of third parties lowers the chances of a PPP victory.

Another potential electoral factor is the public reaction to strikes by resident and trainee doctors protesting government plans to increase enrollments at medical schools. The government proposal is part of a wider ambition by Yoon to overhaul the labor market, which has been a centerpiece of his policy agenda. Yoon believes that a more flexible labor market would boost economic growth.

The government argues that more doctors are needed to serve Koreas rapidly aging population. Opinion polls suggest there is broad public support to nearly double the intake at medical schools since Korea has one of lowest doctor-to-patient ratios among advanced countries. But the Yoon administration has also been seen as mishandling the medical strike by threatening to withdraw the medical licenses of doctors unless they return to work. This could undermine support for future labor reform efforts.

The government is also proposing a plan to promote corporate governance reforms, which is a potential vote winner since it is designed to boost share prices. The recent unveiling of the Corporate Value-up Program by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) appears aimed at winning election support among retail investors, who account for about 70 percent of trading in the stock market and are estimated to make up a third of the voting population.

The plan calls for listed companies to improve their governance and capital efficiency by setting targets when it comes to such standard investment indicators such as price-to-book, return on equity and dividend ratios. The government is hoping to repeat the success of a similar plan by the Tokyo Stock Exchange, which has been cited as one reason why Japanese stocks recently hit a record high after 34 years.

The Seoul stock market has long suffered from what is known as the Korea discount, which means that investors have undervalued listed Korean companies due to their spotty corporate governance, low dividend payments and the dominance of the market by the leading chaebol. As a result, investors complain about poor shareholder returns.

Most analysts believe the FSC plan will not be effective in addressing the Korea discount issue unless additional steps are taken. These would include overhauling some aspects of the tax system that now discourage investor returns. For example, dividends are taxed at a high rate which prevents companies from returning more capital to shareholders. The Yoon administration also wants to repeal a scheduled tax on capital gains. Yoons tax reform proposals would only become reality if the PPP gains control of the National Assembly since the DPK opposes them because they are viewed as primarily benefiting the rich.

While his domestic reforms have been constrained by the National Assembly, Yoons has enjoyed much more freedom in setting foreign policy, which may become his most endearing legacy. He has focused on strengthening trilateral security cooperation with Japan and the United States to counter China and North Korea.

Yoons efforts to ease tensions with Japan have been particularly controversial. He sought to end a dispute with Tokyo over compensation to Korean workers forced to work in Japanese factories during World War II. This was followed by the Camp David agreement last year that opened the way for large-scale joint military exercises involving Korea, Japan and the U.S.

But this progress could be jeopardized in the future due to government changes in all three countries. Fumio Kishida could soon be ousted as Japanese prime minister due to a corruption scandal, while the possible return to the White House of Donald Trump would likely lead to a weaker U.S. commitment to the defense of Korea. Yoons successor may also overturn his policy given the continued public hostility in Korea to forging closer ties with Japan.

Even if Yoon gains a victory in the National Assembly elections, the next several years will be tough for him as his influence wanes toward the end of his term in 2027 unless he is able to recover from his dismal approval ratings.





John Burton (johnburtonft@yahoo.com), a former Korea correspondent for the Financial Times, is a Washington, D.C.-based journalist and consultant. Burton is a guest editorial writer of The Korea Times.
















Kendallville, IN (46755)

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Auburn, IN (46706)

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[T/W: Mentions of self-harm, assault]

Areum's health condition has been updated by her current boyfriend on social media.

Read more to learn further details.

T-ARA Areum Still Unconscious After Being Rushed to Hospital According to Boyfriend

On March 27, Korean news outlets reported that former T-ARA member Lee Areum was rushed to the hospital after attempting to take her own life.

According to sources, the reason for her attempts was due to the stressful environment and pressure she's currently facing. On the same day (March 27), Areum's current boyfriend shared Areum's condition.

"Thank you to the fans of Areum and everyone acquainted with her, and their efforts in reaching out with concern. Please do not make any unnecessary or strange contact requests and be mindful." "Please do it in moderation. The person is sick and unconscious. Please refrain from doing so. I pray that she will be fine." // TW - suicide, physical abuse, mental abuse, child abuse, gaslighting



T-ARA Areum fiance, Seo Donghoon shares Areum is currently unconscious and asks to refrain and not overwhelm with unnecessary contacting



(cont'd - 1/3)https://t.co/pWZI09vCQhhttps://t.co/e7Rqql6XT9 pic.twitter.com/rQYYBAVdmw March 27, 2024

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: [T/W] Ex-T-ARA Ahreum Attempts to Make Extreme Decision Amid Divorce Lawsuit

Areum shocked the K-pop community by revealing details of longstanding domestic abuse she had experienced from her ex-husband Kim Young Gul. Apart from the abuse, Areum also became a victim of cellphone hacking.

Areum married her ex-husband in 2019. Outlets reported that Mr. Kim was a businessman and was two years older than the former idol, and eventually, the two had two sons.

In December 2023, Areum announced that a divorce filing was in the process and that she plans to remarry her new partner. However, on the 25th of March 2024, Areum uploaded shocking photos of her scarred face and a mosaic blurring some of her inflicted body parts.

The photos were reportedly taken in November 2021, when Areum left for her parents' house after being physically abused by her ex-husband in front of her child.

"It was taken right after I ran away to my parents' house on the day I was mercilessly beaten by him in front of my child," Areum wrote. "At that time, all the ordinary dresses were torn, there were blood and bruises everywhere that I couldn't see, and my nose was bent."

On March 2, Areum uploaded several graphic photos and audio files recounting how her children also experienced abuse from their father.

Areum discussed in the caption that Mr. Kim had taken out loans without her knowing and that he was also engaged in gambling. The former idol added that Kim didn't have the initiative to offer financial support, while also mentioning that he was violent during their marriage.

Areum then shared that she decided to keep quiet about her own abuse for her children's sake and that she even sent them to her husband for a quicker divorce process. But in a negotiation interview with her children, Areum was shocked to learn that their father had also abused them.

For more K-pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: T-ARA Areum Drops Cryptic Message Directed Towards Ex-husband- 'Anyone Who Commits a Crime Must Be Punished ..'

KpopStarz owns this article

Written by Israel Monte
TWICE's Dahyun recently made headlines for her remarkable influence, captivating netizens during her visit to Japan for an overseas engagement.

On March 27, Dahyun graced a special event at a Michael Kors store located in Ginza, Japan. The anticipation surrounding her appearance was palpable as cameras and fans alike gathered to catch a glimpse of the beloved idol.

A Stunning Presence

Inside the store, Dahyun radiated elegance and charm, capturing the attention of media and onlookers with her impeccable style.

Even before Dahyun arrived, the streets outside the Michael Kors store were teeming with crowds eagerly awaiting her arrival.

Videos shared by locals showcased the sheer magnitude of fans lining the streets, creating an atmosphere of excitement and frenzy.

READ ALSO: TWICE Dahyun Net Worth 2022: How Much Has 'Gone' Songwriter Earned to Date?

Netizens' Reactions

Netizens expressed astonishment at the immense impact Dahyun had on the otherwise tranquil Ginza street. The sight of fans lining up in droves for a chance to see her left many in awe of her widespread influence.

the amount of people on the michael kors store in japan just to see dahyun

pic.twitter.com/rfKOftxqEv  julie (@tzujuliee) March 27, 2024

the amount of people lining up in front of the Michael Kors Ginza store for Dahyun omg! The way theres no announced time of the event damnnnn where is the queen!!! pic.twitter.com/dbvgJXrG4x March 27, 2024

DAHYUN ARRIVING AT THE MICHAEL KORS STORE IN JAPAN, SHE'S THE MAIN EVENT pic.twitter.com/ENYHs1nlRp  minaron (@godmitzu) March 27, 2024

dahyun siendo el main event pic.twitter.com/Ieej0pFNnY  ali vio a twice  (@alitozaki) March 27, 2024

Dahyun is so famous in japan i would say shes the 4th japanese member https://t.co/HXIcfzehls  Dahyun blonde hair (@twicegaydar) March 27, 2024



In recent news, TWICE's Dahyun stole the spotlight at New York Fashion Week with her stunning appearance in a tan dress, drawing admiration for her natural beauty and minimalist makeup.

Among a star-studded crowd including Hollywood luminaries like Abigail Spencer and Katie Holmes, Dahyun stood out, sparking excitement among fans and netizens.

Comments flooded social media, praising her beauty and expressing awe at her presence alongside such prominent figures. Despite her diminutive stature, Dahyun's radiant charm remained undeniable, leaving a lasting impression at the prestigious event.

YOU MIGHT BE ALSO INTERESTED IN: TWICE Dahyun Has People Gasping Over Her Looks At New York Fashion Week: 'Wrecked, yes or yes?

For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Cassidy Jones.
The recent administrative regulations adopted by the State Council, China's Cabinet, to manage the nation's carbon trading market  the world's largest  will help resolve emerging problems in the program and ensure that the market plays a significant role in helping the country realize its ambitious climate targets, experts said.

Compared with previous regulations, which were issued by departments under the State Council, the new ones include much stricter penalties for violations to help deter companies from fraudulently understating their emissions, they said.

Formulated based on pilot experiences and foreign standards, a stipulation was added to gradually introduce a mechanism to charge a fee so that companies who need emissions allowances must pay for them, which will help further raise enterprises' awareness on low-carbon development, they added.

Premier Li Qiang signed a State Council decree last month to adopt the new regulations, which will take effect on May 1.

Carbon trading is the process of buying and selling allowances to emit greenhouse gases among designated emitters.

The country initiated pilot carbon trading programs in October 2011 in seven parts of the country, including Hubei province, Beijing and Shanghai. The pilot programs in these regions started trading in 2013.

The national carbon trading market, which currently only involves the coal-fired power generation sector, started trading in July 2021. The market covers 2,257 power-generating enterprises.

Overall, these companies contribute roughly 5.1 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, representing about 40 percent of all emissions in the country, according to the ministry.

The national program imposes carbon emission limits for every unit of electricity a power plant generates. After each cycle of trading, operators can sell any carbon allowances they have left after complying with the emissions benchmark. If they exceed their limits, they will have to buy allowances.

Currently, companies get the allowances for free. But the mechanism can reward companies that cut their emissions intensity by allowing them to sell their allowances, and make it so those that do not must purchase them.

Zhu Xiao, a law school professor at the Renmin University of China, said that previously, the operation of the country's carbon trading activities was regulated by rules issued by the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Ecology and Environment.

In 2014, the commission unveiled an interim regulation on carbon trading. After the responsibility for tackling climate change and emission reductions was transferred to the ministry in a 2018 institutional reshuffle of the State Council, the ministry made public a regulation for trial implementation in 2020.

Compared with the previous rules rolled out by the two State Council departments, the administrative regulations have much greater clout, the professor said.

The national carbon market has demonstrated its role as a market-based instrument that promotes low-carbon development, according to the ministry.

By the end of last year, the national carbon market had seen over 440 million tons of carbon emission allowances change hands for almost 24.9 billion yuan ($3.5 billion).

Companies that exceed their emissions benchmarks are given a yearlong compliance period to bring their emissions down.

During the first compliance period from 2019 to 2020, the trade volume jumped by 19 percent, and the money earned from selling emission allowances increased by 89 percent in the second period from 2021 to 2022, the ministry stated, adding the price of emission allowances has climbed to 80 yuan per ton, compared with 48 yuan per ton when the market was launched.

Despite the progress, the ministry has found that its regulation for trial implementation has failed to adequately address situations that have emerged in the market's governance, the ministry said in a media release following the adoption of the administrative regulations.

The previous regulation for trial implementation, for instance, did not sufficiently ensure the quality of carbon emissions data or crack down on violations, it noted.

Furthermore, Zhang Yaobo, an official with the Ministry of Justice, said in a news conference on Feb 26 that some companies cheat when reporting their emissions data.

The administrative regulation has included much stricter sanctions for violations, including data falsification.

Technical service providers for carbon emissions data will have their illicit gains confiscated and will face fines worth five to 10 times the gains, the new regulations said. The penalties should be a minimum of 200,000 yuan and not exceed 1 million yuan.

Executives responsible for the violations and individuals directly involved will also be punished. Aside from being fined from 20,000 to 200,000 yuan, they will be banned from compiling annual carbon emissions reports and conducting emissions data auditing business for five years.

The ministry's regulation for trial implementation only stipulates penalties for companies, not individuals, that commit such violations, and fines only range from 10,000 to 30,000 yuan.

Xu Huaqing, director of the National Center for Climate Change Strategy and International Cooperation, said the new regulation will help strengthen emission data management, which is key for the market's operation.

"The quality of greenhouse gas emissions data is critical for ensuring the healthy and orderly development of the national carbon trading market," he stressed.

Currently, however, the emissions data management at some key carbon emitters in the market is poor, he said. They not only lack adequate institutions for the management of carbon data and carbon assets but also don't have dedicated posts for the work.

In addition to penalties for data fraud, the administrative regulations also lay out explicit directives on a series of other key work procedures concerning data quality management, including data verification, information disclosure and supervision, Xu said.

He said these stipulations can motivate key carbon emitters and relevant technical services providers to carry out emissions data quality management in a more standardized manner.

Xu called on the government to establish an information disclosure mechanism to further enhance its governance over emissions data.

"Related departments and key carbon emitters should make public carbon emissions data, the results of data verification and relevant administrative penalties as required to uphold the public's right to be informed about, be involved in, express views on and supervise the issue," he said.

According to the administrative regulation, companies that fail to purchase allowances to comply with their emission limits during the designated time allotted in each compliance period will also have to pay significantly higher penalties.

Under the new administrative regulation, such companies will be fined five to 10 times the average price of carbon emission allowances in the month prior to the designated time. The previous rule only stipulated a maximum fine of 30,000 yuan.

In a case in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region, for example, a company, the name of which was not disclosed, only bought 4,114,678 tons of the 4,285,582 allowances it needed to buy before Dec 7, 2021, according to Ningxia's department of ecology and environment.

The company, however, was only given a penalty of 29,000 yuan in accordance with the ministry's regulation for trial implementation.

Lai Xiaoming, chairman of the Shanghai Environment and Energy Exchange, lauded the administrative regulation's stipulation of gradually introducing paid allowances into the national carbon trading program.

He said the introduction of the paid allowances will help further enhance companies' awareness that "emitting carbon dioxide is costly, while reducing emissions brings returns", which will help promote low-carbon development.

The administrative regulation will, he said, "provide a legal guarantee for the country's efforts to accelerate the construction of an even more effective and energized carbon market with international influence".

houliqiang@chinadaily.com.cn
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New Delhi, March 27: The collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore, USA, has reverberated across the Indian coal and petcoke markets, sparking concerns about potential supply chain disruptions and price impacts. According to S&P Global Commodity Insights, the incident, triggered by a vessel collision with a supporting pylon, has led to the suspension of navigation through Baltimore Harbor, a critical hub for coal exports.

India, a major importer of US thermal coal, is bracing for challenges in its supply chain following the bridge collapse. According to a US-based trader, the incident is expected to restrict shipments from Arch Coal and create logistical hurdles for Indian importers. A broker told S&P, "The incident will restrict NAPP shipments from Arch Coal and create numerous problems in the supply chain for India. Possible effect on thermal coal to Europe. Bigger impact is India. Watch the petcoke prices jump!" Baltimore Bridge Collapse Update: 22-Member Cargo Ship That Collided With Francis Scott Key Bridge Had All Indians Onboard: Report

The trader warned of potential price jumps in petcoke, a byproduct of the coal refining process, which could further strain India's energy markets. However, opinions within the Indian market are mixed regarding the extent of the pricing impacts. An India-based trader expressed skepticism about significant disruptions, pointing out that major suppliers like Consol and Arch had not declared force majeure. Nevertheless, concerns persist about the potential delays in coal shipments and the consequent strain on India's energy sector.

India's reliance on imported coal is significant, and any disruptions in the global supply chain can have far-reaching consequences. The Indian trader said, "The authorities will take 6-7 days to assess how much debris is there from the incident and how much draft is available because if the draft is low then it could be a problem. The authorities may take 10-15 days to clear out the debris, so it means no ship movement during this period." The port of Baltimore, a key loading location for US thermal coal exports, plays a crucial role in meeting India's energy demands.

With the suspension of navigation through Baltimore Harbor, alternative routes and logistical arrangements will need to be explored to ensure a steady supply of coal to India. While some market participants anticipate short-term price fluctuations in response to the incident, others believe that the overall impact on coal prices may be limited if the waterway is cleared within a reasonable timeframe. Nevertheless, the situation remains fluid, and Indian stakeholders are closely monitoring developments to assess the potential implications for energy markets. US Bridge Collapse: Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore Collapses After Container Ship Hits It, Dramatic Video Footage Surfaces

As authorities work to assess and clear the debris from the collapsed bridge, Indian coal and petcoke importers are bracing for potential disruptions in their supply chains. With India's energy security at stake, attention is focused on finding alternative solutions to mitigate the impact of the Baltimore bridge collapse on the country's energy sector.

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Ministry of Communication, Government of India issued order for nomination of Abhay Khare as the Member Telecom Advisory committee

ATK

New Delhi [India], March 27: The Ministry of Communication, Government of India issued order for nomination of Abhay Khare as the Member Telecom Advisory committee (TAC), Government of India.

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Telecom Advisory committee (TAC) is a high level Indian government body made up of members of Parliament and other members nominated by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology to address issues concerning telecommunication in India.

Abhay Khare, who has been nominated by the Ministry for the first time as the member of TAC, has a long experience in technology domain working for Government on policy making to support Indian growth.

Also Read | German Economic Institutes Cut 2024 Growth Forecast to 0.1%.

He is a management graduate and currently lives in Delhi. He has been recognized by various societies/ organizations for his work.

Abhay has shown exceptional leadership potential and the ability to work effectively in a team environment. He actively collaborates with cross-functional teams to define project requirements, develop implementation plans, and execute deliverables with precision and accuracy. Abhay's strong communication skills, coupled with his natural ability to motivate and inspire others, have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, colleagues and government officials.

(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)

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Contemporary, cosmopolitan, clever and cultural, the essence of Privilege Rooms' identity finds expression in a new premium market lifestyle

NewsVoir

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 27: PrivilegeRooms.com is the newest travel booking platform for premium lifestyle travellers. It is an invitation-only passport to a world of quiet luxury, curated specifically for the traditional and contemporary globetrotter alike.

Also Read | German Economic Institutes Cut 2024 Growth Forecast to 0.1%.

Imagine waltzing through the gilded doors of a five-star Parisian palace, or sinking your toes into the sands on the beaches of Bali - all at a fraction of the usual cost. Privilege Rooms unlocks these doors, offering exclusive member rates that could see you basking in opulence for 33% to a staggering 70% less.

Membership grants you perpetual access to a meticulously vetted portfolio of premium accommodations. At Privilege Rooms travellers can discover three-, four-, and five-star havens that cater to the most well-heeled and well-travelled clientele. Think bespoke experiences, impeccable service, and settings that redefine exclusivity.

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Privilege Rooms membership is by invitation only. You will need an existing Privilege Rooms member to extend a golden ticket into this world of hushed whispers and hidden gems. Consider it an acknowledgement of your discerning taste and a gateway to a travel revolution for the truly elite.

The platform offers unparalleled service with 24/7 dedicated customer support available around the clock, ensuring every detail of your travel experience is impeccably managed.

Speaking on the launch of PrivilegeRooms.com, Co-founder Bharat Ratanpal said, "Privilege Rooms will be a great addition to the legacy travel industry. Hotel prices have been incredibly steep in recent times. It has been a deterrent for travellers. Privilege Rooms has been designed to help travellers save more on the hotel they are going to book. It also allows them to experience hotels they never thought they'd book."

"Privilege Rooms will be a game-changing experience in the travel and hospitality space. We want to build a community of passionate and frequent users. The goal is to encourage them to spend less, travel more..., travel better. We are determined to make each trip an unforgettable memory," said Jaikishan Mulchandani, Co-founder - PrivilegeRooms.com.

Users can engage with confidence, knowing Privilege Rooms is a Trustpilot verified platform, guaranteeing peace of mind and exceptional service.

For more information go to privilegerooms.com/signin or download the Privilege Rooms mobile app now (Available on Android and iOS).

Privilege Rooms, the brainchild of entrepreneurs Bharat Ratanpal and Jaikishan Mulchandani, aspires to disrupt the travel industry with a curated approach to premium stays at exclusive rates.

As a closed user group catering to a niche clientele, Privilege Rooms provide insider access to an unmatched portfolio of three, four and five-star accommodations befitting of sophisticated and well-travelled consumers.

Bharat Ratanpal a prominent veteran in the Indian hospitality space, has a proven track record of leading and managing teams across diverse markets and segments. From leisure to business, from luxury to large inventory hotels, he has worked with some of the most renowned hotel brands in the world, such as Marriott, Hyatt, and InterContinental.

Jai Mulchandani, a scion of the Mulchandani family and Director at Kailasa Specialty Cuisine Pvt. Ltd., embodies the evolution of a 72-year-old restaurant brand. As a third-generation leader, he steers the expansion of the iconic "Kailash Parbat" chain across India.

(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)

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Actor Sonam Kapoor feels honoured as global art museum Tate Modern inducted her as a member of their South Asia Acquisition Committee. In a statement shared by the actress' team, Sonam said, "I'm deeply honoured to join the prestigious Tate Modern as a member of their South Asia Acquisition Committee. My fascination with Indian and South Asian art has been a lifelong journey, during which I have endeavoured to champion our artists at every opportunity." Sonam has been inducted to champion Indian and South Asian art. "South Asia's rich legacy of art is finally gaining the global recognition it deserves. As an Indian and a South Asian, it's a privilege to witness our art taking centre stage. This role at Tate Modern allows me to actively endorse and advocate for our remarkable artworks and artists on a historic platform. It is a proud moment, not just for me, but for our entire art community, as we work together to elevate the presence of South Asian art, worldwide," she added. From Sobhita Dhulipala to Sonam Kapoor, All the B-town Ladies Swooning Over Pretty Gold Sarees!.

Meanwhile, on the acting front, Sonam was last seen in the film 'Blind' directed by Shome Makhija and also starring Purab Kohli, Vinay Pathak, and Lillete Dubey in prominent roles. The film marked Sonam's return to acting after a maternity break.Sonam was blessed with son Vayu in August 2022. She has signed two new projects as well. Sonam Kapoor Hosts Memorable Birthday Lunch for Mom Sunita Kapoor (Watch Video).

Talking about them, Sonam said, "I took two years off as I was pregnant and then wanted to take some time off with my son. Two years are not done yet and I have signed onto two projects - one show and one film that I will start working on. It will release in another year, because that is how films work. Then my idea is to do two pieces of content every year, that's it, not more because I want to spend time with my family as well."
Bijapur (Chhattisgarh) [India], March 27 (ANI): As many as six naxals have been killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district, a top police official said on Wednesday.

IG Bastar P Sundarraj said six naxal bodies, including one female, have been recovered after an exchange of fire in the forest area near Chikurbatti-Pusbhaka jungle in Bijapur district.

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The encounter took place near Talperu river close to Chikurbatti area under Basaguda police station, said Bastar Range IG Sundarraj.

A joint team of CoBRA-an elite unit of CRPF, CRPF's 229th battalion and DRG were involved in the gunfight with insurgents of PLGA's platoon-10 near Talperu river, said the IG, adding that during search, the security personnel have recovered the bodies of six slain naxals.

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Of six slain naxals, one was a female cadre, the officer added.

During search, the team had recovered arms and ammunition along with other material of daily use, the officer said.

Further details are awaited as search operation is still underway, said IG Sundarraj.

The area falls under the jurisdiction of the Basaguda police station.

Basaguda District Reserve Guard, CRPF 229, and Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) teams were involved in the operation, they said.

On March 23, two jawans were injured in an IED (Improvised Explosive Device) blast in the Naxal stronghold of Dantewada, the superintendent of police in the district informed.

The explosion took place in the Kirandul police station area during an anti-Naxal operation on Saturday, the Dantewada SP added. (ANI)

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Thrissur, March 27: In a path-breaking move, Kerala Kalamandalam, the prestigious deemed-to-be university for art and culture, decided on Wednesday to admit students to its various courses regardless of gender. An executive meeting held on campus unanimously approved the decision, which will be implemented in the next academic year, the university registrar said in a statement.

With this decision, men, women and transgenders can now enroll in all the courses offered by Kalamandalam, including classical dance forms such as "Mohiniyattam," which had been strictly reserved for women until now, a Kalamandalam source said. Ashoka University Students Raise 'Brahmin-Baniyawaad Murdabad' Slogan on Campus, Varsity Says It Deplores Hatred Against Any Individual or Group After Videos Go Viral.

The executive meeting was attended by vice-chancellor B Ananthakrishnan and various dance exponents, including Kalamandalam Gopi, Kalamandalam Kshemavathi, Dr Neena Prasad and so on.

The eminent institution took the historic decision at a time when the state has been witnessing a raging row over recent racist remarks made by a senior Mohiniyattam dancer against a fellow artist on a YouTube channel.

As the video of the racial remarks by Sathyabhama went viral on social media and was aired on news channels last week, noted Mohiniyattam dancer Dr RLV Ramakrishnan had alleged that her comments were directed at him, and threatened to initiate legal action against her. Student Attempts Suicide in Hyderabad: Anurag University Student Jumps off Second Floor After Being Insulted and Beaten for Not Getting Haircut (See Pic and Videos).

The video and her subsequent statements defending what she had said were severely criticised by many on social media, cutting across political lines. The Kerala Kalamandalam, a premier public institution that preserves Kerala's artistic heritage, had also condemned Sathyabhama's remarks. Ramakrishnan performed "Mohiniyattam" at Kalamandalam on Tuesday after being invited by its student's union.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Sonitpur (Assam) [India], March 27 (ANI): Ranjit Dutta, the BJP candidate for the Sonitpur parliamentary constituency, filed his nomination papers on Wednesday with the returning officer at Tezpur in Assam's Sonitpur district.

During the filing of nomination papers, the BJP candidate held a roadshow in which Assam State BJP president Bhabesh Kalita, Assam Minister Ashok Singhal, and senior leaders of AGP and UPPL accompanied him.

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On the other hand, BJP candidate Ranjit Dutta said that more than 20,000 workers from the BJP, AGP, and UPPL were present in the meeting as well as the roadshow.

"Our only issue is development, and we will reach out to the voters with the same. There is no opposition in Sonitpur," Ranjit Dutta said.

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Assam Minister Ashok Singhal told ANI that this time the BJP candidate in Sonitpur parliamentary constituency will win with a record margin of votes.

"During the election campaign, we will carry issues of the development works done by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government in the last few years and plans for the next 25 years for the people. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, we are trying to make Assam an Atmanirbhar Assam," Ashok Singhal said.

It is noteworthy that the elections in the 14 Lok Sabha constituencies of Assam are scheduled to take place in three stages, with polling days set for April 19, April 26, and May 7.

In the Lok Sabha elections of 2014, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured 7 of the 14 seats in Assam. Both the Congress and the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) claimed three seats each.

During the 2019 elections, the BJP increased its seat count to 9, while the Congress maintained its three seats, and the AIUDF won a single seat. (ANI)

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Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], March 27 (ANI): Despite the Congress still licking its wounds from the exit of six dissenting MLAs to the BJP, state Education Minister Rohit Thakur claimed on Wednesday that the ruling party was poised to not just fare well in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections but also win all 6 Assembly seats that are going to bypolls at the same time.

While the ruling Congress is yet to announce its Lok Sabha picks from the state, Thakur, the party's Shimla parliamentary constituency in-charge, chaired a meeting with key party office bearers on Wednesday to flesh out its strategy for the general elections.

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Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Thakur said the party will soon unveil its candidates for the Lok Sabha.

"After the victory in the bye-elections of 2021, the assembly elections of 2022 and the polls to the Shimla Municipal Corporation, we are hopeful of keeping the winning run going in the Lok Sabha elections this year. We are also confident of winning all 6 seats in the Assembly bypolls. We will announce our candidates soon," Thakur said.

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Claiming that the government, led by Chief Minister Sukhwinder Sukhu, has done 'excellent' work over the last 15 months, the Congress leader said party workers will go to the people and raise awareness about the development work of the current regime.

Taking a swipe at the BJP, he said the principal opposition party in the state works only as per the dictates passed down by its national leadership.

On the Congress's likely faces for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls and the assembly bye-elections, Thakur said the high command will take the final call on whom to give tickets and whom not to.

The elections to the four Lok Sabha seats of Himachal Pradesh and bypolls to the six assembly constituencies that fell vacant with the disqualification of six rebel Congress MLAs and their eventual switch to the BJP on June 1. (ANI)

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New Delhi [India], March 27 (ANI): The Delhi High Court will hear Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's plea against his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday. Kejriwal has filed a plea before the Delhi High Court, saying that the ED has violated his fundamental and human rights.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief has argued that the ED has failed to establish guilt of the petitioner.

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"The DOE has at the time of arrest has failed to establish that Petitioner is guilty of committing activities stipulated under Section 3, i.e., be it one of concealment, possession, acquisition, use of proceeds of crime as much as projecting it as untainted property or claiming it to be so," Kejriwal's legal team pleaded.

The Chief Minister has further said that the arrest of the petitioner without any questioning shows that the proceedings against him are pre-mediated and political.

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"The fact that the Petitioner was arrested without any interrogation or questioning clearly show that the present proceedings of arrest is pre-meditated and nothing but an act of political vendetta to skew the balance and level-playing field in the General Election, 2024," his legal team said.

Kejriwal has sought immediate release from prison and quashing of the remand order against him.

The ED arrested Kejriwal on March 21 in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case linked to a money laundering case and remanded the next day to the ED till March 28.

The case pertains to alleged irregularities and money laundering in framing and implementing the Delhi excise policy case 2022, which was later scrapped.

The case arose out of a report submitted by Delhi Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar to Lieutenant Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena in July 2022, pointing to alleged procedural lapses in the formulation of the policy.

The report said "arbitrary and unilateral decisions" taken by Sisodia in his capacity as Excise Minister had resulted in "financial losses to the exchequer" estimated at more than Rs 580 crore. This report was referred to the CBI, and led to Sisodia's arrest.

While Kejriwal was not named in the FIRs registered by the ED or the Central Bureau of Investigation in the Delhi excise policy case, his name first found a mention in the ED's chargesheet, wherein the agency claimed that he allegedly spoke to one of the main accused, Sameer Mahendru, in a video call and asked him to continue working with co-accused and AAP communications-in-charge Vijay Nair. (ANI)

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New Delhi [India], March 27 (ANI): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at 26 locations across seven districts of Punjab on Wednesday in a money laundering case linked to an alleged multi-crore guava orchard compensation scam.

The places being raided by the agency included the residence of Firozpur Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Dhiman. The raids are being carried out under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

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The federal agency registered the case, taking cognizance of a Punjab Vigilance Bureau First Information Report (FIR) pertaining to alleged embezzlement of nearly Rs 137 crore released as compensation for guava orchards on land acquired by the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA).

Sources indicated that the residences of certain senior government officials and private individuals are under investigation.

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According to reports, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau has apprehended several individuals, including officials from the horticulture department, in connection with this matter.

Last year, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau exposed the scam amounting to Rs 137 crore and has apprehended 33 individuals thus far. The fraudulent activities primarily occurred in Barakpur village, where the Enforcement Directorate initiated raids, revealing collusion among officials from the horticulture and revenue departments, the GMADA, and private entities.

Around 2016-17, individuals associated with the government and GMADA officers reportedly possessed foreknowledge of impending land acquisitions. Allegedly, they strategically purchased land and extensively planted guava trees to inflate compensation amounts. By purportedly manipulating records to indicate tree planting in 2016 instead of the actual 2018 timeline, they allegedly facilitated the illicit extraction of crores in compensation, according to the case details.

One Bhupinder Singh is accused of receiving compensation by planting guava trees on agricultural land acquired by GMADA for development purposes. Allegedly, he colluded with officials from the horticulture department to falsify records and secure compensation. The ED team is seeking access to the case records to trace the flow of funds. (ANI)

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New Delhi, March 27: Travelling through jungles and snow-capped mountains, wading through rivers, carrying EVMs on horse and elephant backs, setting up polling stations in tents, shipping containers and booths in hamlets with lone voters -- the EC has to literally move mountains to conduct polls at the remotest and inaccessible places. From Gir forest, the last surviving natural habitat of Asiatic lions to world's highest polling station at a height of over 15,000 feet above sea level, riverine polling station in a village on India-Bangladesh border reachable after a one-hour boat ride to a polling station set up in a shipping container in an islet in Gujarat, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has many feats to its credit when it comes to holding elections.

According to Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, the polling parties carry EVMs traversing the farthest and toughest terrain crossing makeshift bridges to ensure "No voter is left behind". "We will walk the extra mile so that the voters don't have to. We will go in the snowed mountains and jungles. We will go through horses and helicopters and on the bridges and even ride on elephants and mules just to ensure everyone is able to vote," he said while announcing the schedule for 18th Lok Sabha polls this month. Lok Sabha Election 2024: Election Commission Notifies Scheme for Kashmiri Migrants To Vote in General Elections

In the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, a total of 94 special polling booths will be set up for internally-displaced persons of Manipur to vote at the relief camps. Ethnic clashes between the Meitei and tribal Kuki communities in Manipur since May last year have resulted in the loss of over 200 lives. Over 50,000 displaced people will be eligible to vote at these booths which will be set up in or near relief camps. According to Election Commission records, Tashigang in Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul and Spiti has the world's highest polling station located at the height of 15,256 feet above the sea level.

Polling personnel had to wear life jackets and were accompanied by divers to a riverine polling station in Kamsing village in West Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. "The village, which survives on betel nut farming and solar electricity, has the farthest and non-motorable polling station of Meghalaya. Situated 69 km from district headquarters in Jowai, and 44 km from sub-district headquarter (tehsildar's office) Amlarem, the village is approachable only by small countrymade boats," reads an anecdote shared by EC.

"It takes an hour long cruise to reach the village along Indo-Bangladesh border. A polling station was set up in the village for its 35 voters, 20 malc and 15 female, drawn from 23 families that inhabit the village. The polling personnel had to wear life jackets, and were accompanied by a few divers," it added. According to "Leap of Faith" a book on polls published by the EC, since 2007, a special polling station has been set up in Banej, tucked deep in the forests of Gir, for just one voter - Mahant Haridasji Udasin. He is a priest at a Shiva temple located in the area. Election Commission Uploads Fresh Electoral Bonds Data On Its Website; Check Full List

A booth is set up in the forest office near the temple. A dedicated polling team is appointed to set up the booth and make necessary arrangements for the lone voter to exercise his right. "The Baneshwar Mahadev Temple is located deep inside Gir Forest, the last surviving natural habitat of Asiatic lions. Political parties do not canvass in the area for fear of wild animals. The polling team comprising 10 persons travelled 25 kms to set up a booth for a single voter. "Haridas Udaseen is the successor of Mahant Bharatdas Darshandas, who was the sole voter in the polling station for nearly two decades, before he passed away in November, 2019," the book reads.

In another hamlet with lone voter in Arunachal Pradesh's Malogam, election workers travelled 300 miles over four days across winding mountain roads and river valleys for the single voter in 2019. Malogam is a remote hamlet in forested mountains in Arunachal Pradesh, close to the border with China. Polling stations have also been set up for the Siddis, descendants of East Africans who came to India between the 14th and 17th centuries, in the Talala area of Gir Somnath district. There are over 3,500 such voters in the area, as per the official data.

"Siddis attained prominence in history in the 17th century as rulers of Janjira, an island off Murud, a coastal town in Raigarh district of Maharashtra, Janjira, including Jafrabad, in Kathiawar region of Gujarat, was a princely state in British India, ruled by Siddis," the EC archives said. "Siddis predominate in Jambur, a village in Gir Somnath district, previously a part of princely state of Junagarh. For the first time in electoral history, during the 2022 Gujarat elections, a special polling station was set up in Jambura- Madhupur. Siddis even fielded an independent candidate. Voting in Jambura was held in the first phase of the elections," the book added.

Far off the country's east coast, on the remote Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the EC teams braved crocodile swamps for nine voters in 2019. Gujarat has 1600 km of coastline, longest for any Indian state. The seascape is dotted with islets, a number of which are inhabited. "EC facilitated voting for the first time in the islets in 2022, obviating the need for electors to travel to mainland. At Aliabet, in Bharuch district, a polling station was set up in a shipping container. With minimum facilities assured for 217 electors, they were spared travelling for more than 80 km to vote in the nearest polling station in Bharuch.

"Similarly, five polling stations were set in Siyalbet, an island village under Rajula AC, in Amreli district. This spared 4757 voters of the village of trekking 15 kms to the nearest town Jafrabad," it said. The Election Commission had in 2022 decided to double the honorarium of polling officials, who have to proceed for election duty over three days in advance to reach the polling stations located in remote and difficult areas. Previously their honorarium was on par with others.

The decision came in the aftermath of CEC Kumar's visit to Dumak and Kalgoth villages in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. "He trekked 8 kilometres in 3 days to reach the polling stations part of Badrinath constituency, which went to polls in 2022. While recognising the courage and determination of polling officials, he stressed on the necessity of having updated route maps indicating the safest and shortest course," an EC official said. In 2022, the EC had also directed to provide special water and shockproof backpacks to carry EVMs to aid hands free movement polling parties in difficult terrains.

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Simdega (Jharkhand), Mar 27 (PTI) Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPc were imposed in a panchayat in Jharkhand's Simdega district after a wild boar killed one person and injured nine others, an official said on Wednesday.

The incident took place in Pithra panchayat, around 140 km from the state capital Ranchi, when villagers were preparing to celebrate Holi on Tuesday morning.

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"A wild boar attacked the gathering, killing one person and injuring six others. Later it caused injuries to three more people," Forest Range Officer S S Chaudhary.

Simdega Sub-divisional Officer (SDO) Sumant Tirkey said the prohibitory orders were imposed in the panchayat as a precautionary measure.

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"The villagers may try to look for or chase away the wild boar. In such a situation, the possibility of loss of life and property cannot be ruled out," he said.

A gathering of five or more people has been prohibited under the order. Besides, villagers have been asked not to use loudspeakers or carry weapons or arms.

Meanwhile, forest department teams have been deployed since Wednesday morning to trace the boar and drive it to the forest.

Chaudhary said there was a possibility that the villagers might have injured the wild boar and it turned aggressive, attacking people.

"It is a male wild boar. Generally, male boars are considered very aggressive and they run very fast," he said.

Out of the nine injured, four have been referred to Ranchi's Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), while four are undergoing treatment at Sadar Hospital in Simdega. One injured has been discharged from the hospital, the forest official said.

Chaudhary said the next of kin of the deceased was provided Rs 10,000 as immediate relief, while the injured were given Rs 5,000 each.

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Mumbai, March 27: Prakash Ambdekar of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi announced on Wednesday the names of eight candidates for the upcoming elections, thus indicating that it would sever its ties with Maha Vikas Aghadi, or MVA, in Maharashtra. The VBA has not yet formally announced its intention to sever its ties with the MVA in Maharashtra. VBA said the name of one more candidate for Ramtek would be announced later in the afternoon. The VBA has named candidates for seats like Gadhciroli, Gondiua and Chandrapur where the Congress has already named candidates. The UBT Sena had announced a candidate for Sangli seat on Wednesday.

The names of the candidates were announced following a meeting of the Maharashtra State Committee of the Vanchit Bahujan Aaghadi on Tuesday. "The VBA State Committee has decided not to field a candidate from Nagpur Parliamentary Constituency. VBA will support the candidate of the Indian National Congress from the Nagpur Parliamentary Constituency," the party said in a press release. Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Uddhav Thackeray-Led Shiv Sena Names 16 Maharashtra LS Candidates, Three From Mumbai; Check Full List

With this announcement it is curtains for the expanded Maha Vikas Aghadi with Ambedkar's party contesting outside the alliance that comprises the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar). The VBA had been pushing hard to forge an alliance with the MVA to take on the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA in the Lok Sabha elections. Uddhav faction leader and spokesperson Anand Dubey said, "We had decided to work with the VBA. Everything was okay. Today, by announcing the candidates, has he indicated that he will help the BJP through a backdoor channel. Has he not decided to work as the B Team of the BJP?" Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Congress Releases Third List of 57 Candidates for Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan

"We are not saying this. The public is asking this question. If our message is to defeat the BJP, then why should we go solo in the elections, " he asked the VBA leadership. The state will vote in five phases for 48 constituencies in the upcoming general elections. Lok Sabha Elections 2024 would be held in seven phases, starting on April 19 and ending on June 1. The results will be declared on June 4.

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New Delhi [India], March 27 (ANI): Some Congress workers on Wednesday held a protest outside the party headquarters in New Delhi over the candidature of Danish Ali from Amroha in the Lok Sabha elections.

Party workers were seen having banners with "Congress Jitao, Danish Hatao and Bhajpa hatao" slogans on them.

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The protesters were chanting slogans against the Congress candidate.

Notably, Danish Ali recently joined the Congress, leaving the Bahujan Samaj Party.

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"Today was a time to take a decision. On one hand, there are the divisive forces in the country and on the other there are people who are struggling to give justice to the poor, deprived, and downtrodden. The choice is very clear" Ali said in his news briefing after joining the Congress.

BSP president Mayawati had suspended Danish Ali a day after he spoke out in support of Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra in the cash-for-query case last year, spelling out the 'anti-party activity' out as the reason for the action against him.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Danish Ali became victorious from the Amroha seat gathering 51.4 per cent of votes.

Kanwar Singh Tanwar got 46 per cent while Congress' Sachin Choudhary got only 1.1 per cent.

Lok Sabha polls will be held in seven phases beginning April 19.

Uttar Pradesh, which sends the maximum number of MPs, 80, to Parliament, will vote in all seven phases.

Voting for phases one and two will be held on April 19 and April 26. Next, the state will once again poll in phases three and four on May 7 and May 13.

The Uttar Pradesh electorate will also vote in phases five, six and seven on May 20, May 23 and June 1 respectively.

The votes will be counted on June 4. (ANI)

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New Delhi [India], March 27 (ANI): Bansuri Swaraj, the BJP candidate from the New Delhi Lok Sabha Constituency, shared insights into the prevailing sentiment among the electorate, stating that the love and trust for Prime Minister Modi among the people is immense due to his popularity and his welfare schemes.

On the BJP's campaign and suggestion collection programme, party candidate from New Delhi Lok Sabha Constituency Bansuri Swaraj said, "There is enthusiasm and joy among the people. The love and trust for Prime Minister Modi among the people is immense due to his popularity and his welfare schemes. This affection for PM Modi's welfare policies is a guarantee of his commitment to the well-being of the people. It is a manifestation of his vision and popularity, which shower blessings upon all of us. And you can see it manifesting as "Abki Baar 400 Paar."

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President JP Nadda are among the 40 star campaigners who would canvass for the party in Uttarkhand for the Lok Sabha elections.

In the list released on Wednesday, the party has also named Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari, Smriti Irani, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath as the star campaigners.

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Former Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan is also among the star campaigners.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will kick-start the Bharatiya Janata Party's campaign for the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh from Meerut on March 31, where he will address a public rally. (ANI)

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New Delhi, Mar 27 (PTI) Ukraine's Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba is slated to arrive here on Thursday for a two-day official visit during which he will have meetings with his Indian counterpart and others to discuss matters related to the bilateral relationship.

His visit comes at the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

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During his visit, Kuleba will have "a number of engagements, including official meetings with External Affairs Minister and Deputy NSA to discuss matters pertaining to the bilateral partnership and cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest," the statement said.

He is also expected to interact with the business community.

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Kuleba's visit comes amid the Russia-Ukraine war.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 20 had held separate conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and asserted that dialogue and diplomacy were the way forward for the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Modi had spoken to Putin over a telephone call to congratulate him for winning a fifth term in office in the recent elections, and followed it up with a phone call to Zelenskyy to convey India's "consistent support" for all efforts for peace and bringing an early end to the ongoing conflict.

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Pauri Garhwal (Uttarakhand) [India], March 27 (ANI): Congress candidate Ganesh Godiyal filed his nomination papers from the Garhwal Lok Sabha constituency on Wednesday.

After filing the nomination papers, Ganesh Godiyal addressed a huge crowd gathered during the public meeting held at Ramlila Ground in Pauri.

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Ganesh Godiyal said that the people who have gathered here are the star campaigners and have decided the result for June 4.

Taking to X, he posted, "After the nomination, the star campaigners who gathered in the public meeting held at Ramlila Maidan in Pauri have decided the result on June 4. This is the biggest public meeting in the history of Pauri. The most important thing is that in this meeting, there was no star campaigner from Delhi like the opposition party, every person present here is a star campaigner himself."

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Notably, the Garhwal Lok Sabha constituency is one of the five Lok Sabha constituencies in Uttarakhand. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, BJP candidate Tirath Singh Rawat emerged victorious with a margin of 3,02,669 votes as compared to his Congress rival Manish Khanduris who managed to secure 2,04,311 votes.

The 2024 elections will see a battle between BJP leader Anil Baluni and Congress leader Ganesh Godiyal.The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Uttarakhand, will once again follow the old trend, with elections being held in the first phase on April 19.

The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Uttarakhand, will once again follow the old trend, with elections being held in the first phase on April 19. The ruling government of the BJP led NDA won all five seats in the hilly state, in both the 2014 and 2019 general elections.

The 2024 general elections will be held in India in seven phases, from April 19 to June 1 to elect the 543 members of the 18th Lok Sabha. The results will be announced on June 4. (ANI)

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New Delhi [India], March 27 (ANI): A youth was allegedly murdered following a fight between the deceased and some people in the National Capital, a top police official said.

The incident took place in the Shashtri Park area on late Tuesday night.

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North East DCP Joy Tirkey told ANI, "The incident took place at 12 am in the night... A total of 7 to 8 rounds of bullets were fired... The brother of the victim said that he had been shot."

"A few days ago, there was a fight between the deceased and some people. A murder case has been registered," DCP Tirkey said.

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"The investigation is underway. Around 7-8 rounds may have been fired...", the DCP added.

On Tuesday, the Delhi Police Special Cell arrested two people, accused in a murder case dating back to 2016, under the Ranhola police station limits. The two accused, named Kabir Nat alias Shakil Khalifa and Bablu Nat, were declared Proclaimed Offenders by the court in 2018 and had managed to evade arrest for eight years.

On Holi, one person was apprehended for allegedly killing his wife by "slitting" her throat in the national capital, as per police. The police further said that the couple, who have been married for six years, has two children, in the age groups of 5 and 3, respectively. So the Sub-Divisional Magistrate has been informed to initiate procedures under 176 of the of the Code of Criminal Procedure, as per police. The alleged murder took place at Baldhawar Colony, Bakhtawarpur, falling under the jurisdiction of the Alipur police station when the country was celebrating Holi. (ANI)

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Mumbai, Mar 27 (PTI) Hinduja Group firm GOCL Corporation Limited (GOCL) on Wednesday said it has inked an initial pact with Hyderabad-based Squarespace Builders to initiate the strategic monetization of approximately 264.50 acres of prime land located in Kukatpally for Rs 3,402 crores.

Additionally, the agreement includes the development of 32 acres of land under a Joint Development Agreement (JDA), in collaboration with Hinduja Estates Private Limited, now known as Hinduja Healthcare Limited (HHL), the company said in a statement.

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The process will get completed over 18 months in carefully planned tranches, contingent upon the fulfilment of any associated covenants, it said, adding that R 520 crore will be received as the first instalment under the pact.

The company said it has commenced the immediate sale of 12.50 acres of the 32 acres under the JDA.

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"As the first tranche, the company will receive a payment of Rs 520 crores, of which Rs 160 crores will be the consideration for the sale of 12.50 acres," GOCL said.

The remaining funds will be disbursed to the company in phases through subsequent transactions in the future, it added.

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New Delhi, Mar 27 (PTI) Reliance Power on Wednesday said its two subsidiaries have settled debt worth Rs 1,023 crore with Authum Investment's arm Reliance Commercial Finance.

Reliance Power Ltd's two subsidiaries -- Kalai Power Pvt Ltd and Reliance Cleangen Ltd, have signed a debt settlement and discharge agreement with Reliance Commercial Finance Ltd (RCFL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Authum Investment & Infrastructure Limited, a regulatory filing said.

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In a stock exchange disclosure, the company informed that the value of total outstanding debt that has been settled stood at Rs 1,023 crore.

The debt settlement with Reliance Commercial Finance came a few days after Reliance Power announced the sale of its 45 MW wind power project in Maharashtra to JSW Renewable Energy, for a consideration of Rs 132 crore.

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In December 2023, Kalai Power had sold the development rights of its proposed 1,200 Megawatt hydro-electric project in Arunachal Pradesh to THDC India Ltd for Rs 128 crore.

According to a company official, the funds raised from the sale of these assets were used to retire the debt.

Authum Investment, in a banks-led resolution process, had acquired Reliance Commercial Finance and Reliance Home Finance from Reliance Capital Ltd in 2022.

Over the past few months, Reliance Power has been actively signing debt settlement agreements with various banks, including DBS Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank.

Reliance Power is aiming to be a debt-free company, on a standalone basis, by the end of March 31, 2024. At the end of fiscal 2023, the company had an outstanding debt of around Rs 700 crore.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Hebbariye (Lebanon), Mar 28 (AP) An Israeli airstrike on a paramedics centre linked to a Lebanese Sunni Muslim group in south Lebanon killed seven of its members early on Wednesday and triggered a rocket attack from Lebanon that killed one person in northern Israel, officials said.

The strike on the village of Hebbariye came after a day of airstrikes and rocket attacks between Israel's military and Lebanon's Hezbollah group along the Lebanon-Israel border, raising concerns of further escalation along the frontier that has been active for the past five months of the Israel-Hamas war.

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The airstrike after midnight on Tuesday hit an office of the Islamic Emergency and Relief Corps, according to the Lebanese Ambulance Association. It was one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the border.

The paramedics association listed the names of seven volunteers who were killed in the strike. It said the strike was "a flagrant violation of humanitarian work".

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Hebbariye resident Ali Noureddine told The Associated Press that the seven dead were pulled out from the rubble before sunrise Wednesday.

Muheddine Qarhani, head of the Emergency and Relief Corps, told reporters at the scene that the centre that was struck was set up late last year, after the latest round of violence broke out. He said they were surprised that a paramedic group was targeted.

They were here waiting to respond to a rescue call and ended up getting hit by missiles that brought the building over their heads, he said.

The Israeli military said it struck a military building in Hebbariye and killed a member of Lebanon's Sunni Muslim al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, or the Islamic Group, and several other militants. It said the man was involved in attacks against Israel.

Hours later, Hezbollah said it retaliated against the airstrike by firing dozens of rockets on Wednesday morning on the northern Israeli city of Kiryat Shmona and a military base there.

Rescue services in Israel said that a 25 year-old man was killed when a direct hit sparked a fire in an industrial park in Kiryat Shmona. Footage from the scene showed thick black smoke pouring out of a building.

Another person was lightly injured. Around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel, according to the Israeli military.

Nada Khleif was in her small bakery in Hebbariyeh when the strike heavily damaged her business and a nearby apartment, where two of her relatives were unharmed.

The bakery was my only means of living. It is gone now, she said.

Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group began launching rockets toward Israel one day after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on October 7.

The near-daily violence has mostly been confined to the area along the Lebanon-Israel border, and international mediators are scrambling to prevent an all-out war between Hezbollah and Israel.

The fighting has killed nine civilians and 11 soldiers in Israel. Nearly 240 Hezbollah fighters and about 40 civilians have died in Lebanon. (AP)

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Azacualpa (Honduras), Mar 27 (AP) The construction workers who went missing in the Baltimore bridge collapse all hailed from Mexico or Central America before they settled in the Maryland area.

Police managed to close bridge traffic seconds before a cargo ship slammed into one of the Francis Scott Key Bridge's supports early Tuesday, causing the span to fall into the frigid Patapsco River. There wasn't time for a maintenance crew filling potholes on the span to get to safety.

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At least eight people fell into the water and two were rescued. The other six are missing and presumed dead, but the search continued on Wednesday.

The governments of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras confirmed that their citizens were among the missing.

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Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 39, was the youngest of eight siblings from Azacualpa, a rural mountainous area in northwestern Honduras along the border with Guatemala.

Eighteen years ago, he set out on his own for the US looking for opportunities. He entered illegally and settled in Maryland, where he eventually started a business, one of his brothers, Martin Suazo Sandoval, said on Wednesday while standing in the dirt street in front of the family's small hotel in Honduras. He said his brother was entrepreneurial and hard-working.

Other siblings and relatives followed him north.

He was the fundamental pillar, the bastion so that other members of the family could also travel there and later get visas and everything, Martin Suazo Sandoval said. He was really the driving force so that most of the family could travel.

The pandemic forced Maynor to find other work, and he joined Brawner Builders, the company that was performing maintenance on the bridge when it collapsed.

Things had been going well for him until the collapse. He was moving through the steps to get legal residency and planned to return to Honduras this year to complete the process, his brother said.

Maynor's employer broke the news of his disappearance to his family, leaving them devastated, especially his mother, who still lives in Azacualpa, Martin Suazo Sandoval said.

These are difficult moments, and the only thing we can do is keep the faith, he said, noting that his younger brother knew how to swim and could have ended up anywhere. If the worst outcome is confirmed, he said the family would work to return his body to Honduras.

In Mexico, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said three Mexicans were on the bridge when it fell, including one who was injured but rescued and two who were still missing. He said he wouldn't share their names for the families' privacy.

The tragedy illustrated the contributions that migrants make to the US economy, Lopez Obrador said.

This demonstrates that migrants go out and do risky jobs at midnight. And for this reason, they do not deserve to be treated as they are by certain insensitive, irresponsible politicians in the United States, he said.

Guatemala's Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed that two of its citizens were among the missing. And El Salvador's foreign minister, Alexandra Hill Tinoco, posted Wednesday on X that one Salvadoran citizen, Miguel Luna, was among the missing workers.

Federal and state investigators have said the crash appears to have been an accident. (AP)

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Male, Mar 27 (PTI) The Maldives government has said it will not reveal the details of the agreement it signed with India for replacing the 88 Indian military personnel stationed in the archipelago nation, a media report said here on Wednesday.

The first batch of approximately 25 Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives manning a helicopter gifted by India departed from the island nation after handing over the operations of the chopper to an Indian civilian crew as agreed ahead of the March 10 deadline, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) announced on March 11.

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After a high-level meeting in New Delhi on February 2 between the two sides, the Maldivian foreign ministry said India would replace its military personnel operating the three aviation platforms in the Maldives by May 10 and the first phase of the process would be completed by March 10.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, seen as a pro-China leader, has affirmed that no Indian military personnel, not even those in civilian clothing, would be present in his country after May 10.

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Muizzu has maintained that the agreement that was signed with the Indian government in consensus of troops' repatriation (and) the procedures to remove the Indian troops are progressing under this agreement, news portal Edition.mv reported.

Edition.mv's quoted its sister concern, Mihaaru News, which had reached out to the Foreign Ministry, requesting information on the agreement reached between the two countries under the Right to Information Act.

However, the Ministry's response had stated that they are unable to disclose a copy of the agreement and maintained that this is done in conformity with Article 29 of the Right to Information Act, the portal said.

The Ministry's response was delivered last Sunday, it said.

Former Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration had also withheld information on the defence agreements signed with India, insisting the main reason for this was the fear of threatening national security with disclosure, the news portal said. It also noted that Muizzu had pledged to divulge this information during his tenure.

Muizzu rode to power last year on an anti-India stance and defeated Solih in the presidential election. And within hours of taking the oath, he asked India to remove its military personnel from the strategically located archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean.

Earlier in February, the first batch of 26 Indian civilian personnel arrived here to replace the Indian military personnel operating a helicopter in Addu city. India also sent a new helicopter and transported the old helicopter used in Addu city for repairs.

The Maldives' proximity to India, barely 70 nautical miles from the island of Minicoy in Lakshadweep and 300 nautical miles from the mainland's western coast, and its location at the hub of commercial sea lanes running through the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) gives it significant strategic importance.

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Balochistan [Pakistan], March 27 (ANI): The mother of Kabir Baloch, who has been missing for 15 years, urged everyone to participate in the media campaign against forced disappearance, which will be held today (Wednesday).

Baloch activist Mahrang Baloch posted a video message of the mother of Kabir Baloch, on social media X.

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https://x.com/MahrangBaloch_/status/1772596651737178447?s=20

His mother emphasised that she did not receive any justice from the commission or the courts.

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"It has been 15 years since the enforced disappearance of my son Kabir Baloch, and I have not received justice from the commission and the courts. Be part of the media campaign on 27 March, play your role in the recovery of all missing persons including Kabir, Mushtaq and Attaullah Baloch," she said.

Earlier on Monday, Pakistani forces allegedly forcibly disappeared five people, including two Pashtun activists, from Mastung, Awaran, and Quetta districts of Balochistan, reported The Balochistan Post.

According to reports, Pakistani forces raided a house and forcibly disappeared an individual identified as Ameer Hamza from Mastung.

Hamza's wife said that the forces tortured the households and looted valuables during the raid.

Moreover, the Pakistani forces allegedly detained Ameer Hamza in front of his family and subsequently moved him to an undisclosed location, as reported by The Balochistan Post.

Meanwhile, two cases of enforced disappearances were reported from the Awaran district of Balochistan.

In a similar development, Pakistan's intelligence agencies allegedly forcibly disappeared two activists of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan.

The family members of those who disappeared said that if they had committed a crime, they should be produced before the courts instead of disappearing.

Reportedly, the family vowed to continue the sit-in until their demands were met. (ANI)

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Dakar, Mar 28 (AP) Senegal's little-known opposition figure who was elected president this week in a tightly contested race won over 54 per cent of the votes, according to results released on Wednesday.

The presidential election on Sunday marked a stunning victory for 44-year-old Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who was freed from prison less than two weeks ago and is now due to be the youngest leader of the West African nation.

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The government-backed candidate, former Prime Minister Amadou Ba, conceded to Faye on Monday. President Macky Sall, who had backed Ba, also declared Faye the winner.

At a news conference in Dakar, the court of appeals announced Wednesday that Faye won 54.28 per cent of the vote. Ba garnered 35.47 per cent of the votes cast.

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The results are preliminary -- after all the votes have been counted -- but are expected to be confirmed on Friday.

Faye's release from prison followed a political amnesty granted just in time for the balloting. He was little known until popular opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, who was barred from running due to a prior conviction, chose Faye to run in his place.

In his first speech as president-elect, Faye promised to fight corruption and reform the economy.

The election came after months of unrest. Both Faye and Sonko were arrested last year, and there were concerns that the president would seek an unconstitutional third term.

President Sall sought to delay the election until December but that move was blocked by the country's constitutional court, and the government was forced to allow the election to go forward this month.

The sole woman in the race, Anta Babacar Ngom, gained less than 1 per cent of the votes. No other candidate among the 19 listed on the ballot got more than 3 per cent, reflecting how voters were evenly divided between the two front-runners, Ba and Faye. (AP)

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Islamabad [Pakistan], March 27 (ANI): Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan reiterated demand for a judicial inquiry into the May 9 violence and the alleged rigging in the February 8 elections, Dawn reported.

The PTI founder also urged the Chief Justice of Pakistan to hear the petitions filed by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI). He urged Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa to set up a judicial commission to probe the matter.

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Khan renewed his call for a judicial probe into alleged rigging while speaking to journalists after attending a court hearing in the alleged corruption case involving 190 million pounds.

The former PM said the establishment was using the May 9 violence as a pretext to dismantle his party in accordance with the 'London plan'.

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"The culprits could have been identified through CCTV footage, but these have been stolen. Those behind the footage theft were responsible for the May 9 episode," the PTI chief said.

He alleged that the closure of cases related to the Sharif family and President Asif Ali Zardari was "part of the London plan," Dawn reported.

Massive protests erupted on May 9 last year after Imran Khan's arrest in connection with a graft case. The situation turned severe with protestors attacking the military installations.

The February 8 general elections in Pakistan were deemed controversial. Imran Khan-founded PTI and several other parties alleged internet shutdowns, massive rigging, and a lack of a 'level-playing field'.

The former PM further said the PTI would not consider the Senate elections as legitimate because the National Assembly was "a product of rigged exercise" in the first place.

On the hearing in the US Congress on the cipher controversy last week, the PTI founder said it would have been a 'di

World News | Pakistan: Imran Khan Renews Demand for Judicial Inquiry into May 9 Riots

Get latest articles and stories on World at LatestLY. Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan reiterated demand for a judicial inquiry into the May 9 violence and the alleged rigging in the February 8 elections, Dawn reported.
Peshawar, Mar 27 (AP) Pakistani authorities will perform DNA testing on the remains of the suicide bomber who rammed his explosive-laden car into a vehicle in the country's northwest, killing five Chinese nationals and their local driver, officials said Wednesday.

The attack occurred in Shangla, a district in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province where thousands of Chinese nationals work on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor which includes a multitude of megaprojects such as road construction, power plants and agriculture. The CPEC is a lifeline for Pakistan's cash-strapped government, currently facing one of its worst economic crises.

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The five were engineers and laborers heading Tuesday to the Dasu Dam, the biggest hydropower project in Pakistan, where they worked. Their remains were transported to the capital, Islamabad, local police official Altaf Khan said, adding that the deceased had a police escort when the attack happened.

Pakistani officials said they shared the latest investigation developments with their Chinese counterparts. China is expected to send its own experts Wednesday to the attack site to conduct an independent investigation while collaborating with Pakistani authorities.

Also Read | Mumbai City Is Asias Billionaire Capital Going Past Beijing, Shanghai: Check List of Top-10 Cities With Most Billionaires in the World.

Khan also said they have further expanded a search started a day earlier to look for the attacker's possible accomplices.

No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack, but suspicion is likely to fall on separatists as well as a breakaway Gul Bahadur faction of Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP, and is a separate group, but a close ally of the Afghan Taliban.

The TTP denied being behind the suicide bombing in a statement Wednesday, saying: "We are in no way related to the attack on the Chinese engineers.

The Chinese foreign ministry condemned the attack and offered deep condolences to the deceased in a statement Wednesday.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif promised a swift conclusion to the investigation during a visit with the Chinese ambassador, Jiang Zaidong, on Tuesday.

Zaidong, accompanied by Pakistani officials, visited the Dasu dam Wednesday, according to a statement by Pakistan's government. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Geneva [Switzerland], March 27 (ANI): Professor Sajjad Raja, the Chairman of the National Equality Party for Jammu Kashmir Gilgit Baltistan and Ladakh (NEP-JKGBL), made a striking comparison between the people living in Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh region and those in the Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

During an interview with ANI, Professor Raja emphasized the vast chasm in development, facilities, infrastructure, and law and order between the two regions, lamenting the dire situation faced by the inhabitants of POK and GB.

Also Read | Data Breach: 2.7 Million Pakistani Data Compromised Over Five Years.

Shedding light on the condition in PoK, he expressed grave concerns over the lack of basic amenities such as hospitals and laboratories, forcing residents to seek medical care in distant cities like Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and Lahore.

Raja further revealed the distressing reality of forced migration from POK and GB, where individuals are compelled to sell their land and assets for relocation to various parts of the world, including the Middle East, Europe, America, and Canada.

Also Read | India Summons US Diplomat, Strongly Objects to State Departments Remarks on Arvind Kejriwals Arrest (Watch Video).

"Our people are sometimes forced to sell their lands and other assets for their migration to the Middle East, Europe, America, Canada and the rest of the world. It is a forced migration that is happening in POK and GB. Pakistan is systematically trying to force our people out of POK and GB. So that the demography is changed", the activist further said.

He attributed this phenomenon to a systematic effort by Pakistan to alter the demographic composition of the regions.

Reflecting on the aftermath of the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Raja acknowledged improvements in the law and order situation, development initiatives, and overall integrity. However, he underscored the enduring disparity faced by residents of PoK, expressing gratitude for the abrogation of Article 370 as a positive step forward.

"It is a fact that after 370, the law and order situation has improved, more development has taken place and more integrity. So I would say that after 370, the people have got those rights that were not available to them before. But being a state subject from POK we are very happy that this 370 is gone", Professor Raja said.

Raja's remarks highlight the urgent need for attention to the plight of the people in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan, urging stakeholders to address the glaring inequalities and injustices faced by these marginalized communities. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Vatican City, Mar 27 (AP) Pope Francis appeared in better health on Wednesday, walking into the Vatican audience hall on his own with a cane for his weekly general audience and delivering his prepared text with a clear voice.

The encounter was Francis' first public event since Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square, when he decided at the last minute to skip his homily, avoiding the speech at the start of a busy Holy Week that will test his increasingly fragile health.

Also Read | Infosys To Provide AI Technology to Germany-Based Handelsblatt Media Group for Storytelling, Compiling Reports of Global Economic and Financial Topics.

In recent weeks, the 87-year-old Pontiff has often shown increased difficulties in walking, has asked an aide to read aloud his remarks and has been heard breathing heavily during public events.

The Holy Week schedule is challenging for popes even under the best of circumstances. But that is especially true this year for Francis, who has been battling on and off all winter what he and the Vatican have described as a case of the flu, bronchitis or a cold.

Also Read | Data Breach: 2.7 Million Pakistani Data Compromised Over Five Years.

As Francis discussed the virtue of patience during his Wednesday audience, he renewed his appeal for peace and an immediate stop in ongoing conflicts.

The pope also noted that there were two people in the Vatican's Paul VI audience hall  two fathers  and that one was Palestinian, the other Israeli.

He said that both of them had lost their daughters over the course of the Middle East conflict, and they are both friends.

They do not look at the enmity of war, Francis said. They look to the friendship of two men who care about each other and have experienced the same crucifixion.

The Vatican press office said Bassam Aramin's daughter Abir was killed in 2007 by an Israeli soldier as she left school; Rami Elhanan's daughter Smadar was killed in 1997 in an attack in Jerusalem.

The two men's story of friendship was told in the novel Apeirogon by Colum McCann, a winner of the Terzani Prize who met with Francis during an audience with artists on June 23, 2023.

Let us think of the beautiful witness of these two people who have suffered the war in the Holy Land in the loss of their daughters, the pope said.

Francis met with both men in private before the general audience and then warmly greeted the two men at the end. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
The Mumbai Police swooped on an alleged illegal hookah parlour and detained at least 14 persons, including stand-up comedian Munawar Faruqui, the winner of Big Boss 17, late on Tuesday, and released them here on Wednesday morning, officials said. The Social Service Branch, which carried out the raids, found Faruqui and the others smoking tobacco-laced hookah at a joint in the Bora Bazar area of Fort in south Mumbai around 11 PM. 'Tired and Travelling'! Munawar Faruqui Shares First Post After Being Released From Mumbai Police Detainment in Hookah Bar Raid.

The raid operations that lasted till early today, in which Faruqui, who was seen enjoying the tobacco-based hookahs instead of the permitted herbal varieties, was also captured on video. The accused were taken to the MRA Marg Police Station and slapped with charges under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act and Indian Penal Code, all bailable offences. Munawar Faruqui Released After Getting Detained During Hookah Parlour Raid By Mumbai Police.

Munawar Faruqui Faces Legal Trouble

Big Boss 17 winner Munawar Faruqui and 13 others were detained and a case has been registered against them in a hookah bar raid in the Fort area last night. All accused were released after questioning: Mumbai Police  ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

Around dawn today, all the accused were served notices and then released from detention, said the officials. During the raids, the police have seized nine hookah pots worth around Rs 13,000 and cash. Further investigations are on.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 27, 2024 12:21 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Chennai, March 27: The District Collector in Tamil Nadu's Kallakurichi, who's also the election officer for the district, has issued an invitation card for the voters, urging them to not accept gifts or cash in return for votes. The card released by Sravan Kumar Jatavath is in the form of a traditional wedding invitation, requesting the voters to come to the polling booths and cast their votes in the Lok Sabha elections scheduled on April 19.

The card has been printed on yellow paper, considered to be auspicious, calling the elections a good occasion. The happy occasion is scheduled in the year of Thiruvalluvar 2055 [the current Tamil year] and the Tamil month of Chithirai [when the elections will be held], on a Friday during the auspicious time between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Tamil Nadu To Establish Artificial Intelligence Mission for Leveraging AI Technology in Education, Employment, Industry, Research and Medicine.

The invitation also appeals to the electorate to exercise their franchise without fail. Exchanging gifts during elections is punishable and should be avoided, it says. Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi Refuses To Read Out Government Speech, Assembly Passes Resolution Declaring Speech Delivered (Watch Video).

Commenting on the development, R. Rajakannu, a social activist and businessman based out of Kallakurichi, said, Hats off to the unique idea mooted by the District Collector and his team. The colour selection makes the invite a visual treat. I am certain that such initiatives will draw more people to the polling stations.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 27, 2024 06:56 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Mumbai, March 27: The Maharashtra Congress on Wednesday objected to the Shiv Sena (UBT) announcing its candidates for the Bhiwandi, Mumbai South Central and Sangli Lok Sabha seats, saying MVA partners must stick to "coalition dharma". Congress Legislature Party leader Balasaheb Thorat urged Sena (UBT) to reconsider its decision. However, his party colleague Sanjay Nirupam adopted a more belligerent stand, attacking their leadership for letting the Uddhav Thackeray-led outfit grab most of the seats in Mumbai.

Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) constituents Congress, Sena (UBT) and NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) have been holding seat-sharing discussions for the 48 constituencies in Maharashtra, where the Lok Sabha polls will be held in five phases starting April 19. Amid the talks, Sena (UBT) earlier in the day released its first list of 17 candidates for the upcoming elections and said it will contest a total of 22 seats in the state. Congress Legislature Party leader Balasaheb Thorat said the announcement was not right. Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Uddhav Thackeray-Led Shiv Sena Names 16 Maharashtra LS Candidates, Three From Mumbai; Check Full List

"Everyone must follow coalition dharma. Shiv Sena (UBT) must reconsider its decision," Thorat said. He said the Congress is still firm on contesting from Sangli, Bhiwandi and Mumbai South Central. "Unfortunately, coalition dharma hasn't been followed," he said. Thorat said his party's state unit has apprised the central leadership of the developments. The senior Congress leader also lamented that Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) leader Prakash Ambedkar has announced a separate list of candidates.

Ambedkar on Wednesday announced candidates for the Lok Sabha polls in Maharashtra, accusing the MVA allies of trying to use his outfit to promote dynastic politics. Considering the prevailing political situation in the country, the Congress made a genuine attempt to reach out to all parties who believe in democracy and the Constitution, he said. Meanwhile, former Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam slammed his party leadership for allowing Sena (UBT) to grab most seats in Mumbai.

Talking to reporters, Nirupam said all options were open before him. I will wait for a week and then take a decision, he said. Nirupam, who is keen to contest the Mumbai North West parliamentary constituency, said the party leadership hasn't got in touch with him in the last fortnight. The leadership isn't bothered that injustice is being done to its leaders and workers. Shiv Sena (UBT) is making us bend and we are doing it, he said. Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Jolt for Maha Vikas Aghadi in Maharashtra, Prakash Ambedkars VBA Names Eight Candidates for LS Polls

Nirupam criticised Sena (UBT) for declaring its candidates in four out of six seats in Mumbai. It is likely that the candidate for the fifth seat will also be declared tomorrow, he claimed. He alleged that attempts are being made to bury the Congress in Mumbai and the party will pay a price for it. I give my leaders a week's time to decide, he said. Nirupam claimed that the Sena (UBT) has given the ticket in Mumbai North West to an accused in an alleged scam during the COVID-19 pandemic.

I will not campaign for such a candidate. Didn't the congress leadership which speaks against corruption realise this, he asked. The Sena (UBT) has nominated Amol Kirtikar, son of Shiv Sena MP Gajanan Kirtikar who owes allegiance to CM Shinde-led Sena, from Mumbai North-West. Sena (UBT) is likely to field a candidate in Mumbai North as well, leaving only Mumbai North Central for the Congress in the megapolis.
Christians all over the world observe Holy Week every year. Holy Week is observed in order to remember Jesus last week on earth, his good deeds, the sufferings he endured, and ultimately his crucifixion on the cross. The sixth day of Holy Week and one of the most important days for Christians in the entire year is Good Friday. Good Friday, also known as Great Friday or Holy Friday, is a significant day for the Christian community. Contrary to what it may sound like, Good Friday is not a celebration or a happy occasion as some may believe; rather, it is a day of mourning, with the good literally referring to good, holy, or pious. Good Friday marks the day Jesus was crucified on the cross and died. It is believed that he willingly suffered and died to pay for the sins of humanity. Christians around the world attend church services, and many observe a fast on this day. This year, Good Friday 2024 will be observed on March 29, 2024. Good Friday Images & HD Wallpapers for Free Download Online: Observe Great and Holy Friday by Sharing Thoughts, Teachings, Bible Verses and Quotes.

Good Friday 2024 Date

Good Friday 2024, also known as Holy Friday or Great Friday, will be observed on March 29, 2024.

Good Friday History

What is Good Friday about? Why do people call it good when it is a sad day? Good Friday marks the day when Jesus was arrested, put on trial, and sentenced to death by crucifixion. The good in Good Friday does not mean happy; instead, it means holy or pious. Good Friday is a sad day for Christians. According to the Bible, Jesus was betrayed by his disciple Judas Iscariot on the Wednesday preceding Good Friday, also known as Spy Wednesday or Holy Wednesday, for thirty pieces of silver. The religious leaders saw Jesus as a threat and accused him of claiming to be the King of Jews and the son of God. They took him to Pontius Pilate, a Roman governor, who then sent him to King Herod for trial and back to Pilate, who decided to crucify him at the behest of the gathered crowd. Jesus was beaten, made to carry a heavy cross to the place of his execution while people mocked him, and then nailed to it by his wrists and feet and pierced on the side of his chest. He died on the afternoon of Good Friday, and his body was later buried in a nearby tomb.

Good Friday Significance

Christians believe that Jesus Christ suffered and died on the cross to pay for humanitys sins. According to Christian beliefs, God loved the world and his people so much that he sent his own son, Jesus, to suffer and die for everyones sins. Good Friday is a day of mourning, sadness, and reflection for Christians. Christians remember Jesus' sacrifice and the suffering he went through to free humanity from their own sins. On this day, people fast and refrain from eating to mourn Jesus' suffering. In many places, people attend church services with prayers, hymns, sermons, and Bible readings. Some also take part in processions that reenact the crucifixion. It's a way to remind people of the importance of Good Friday. Good Friday: Heres Why You Should Not Wish Christians a Happy Good Friday on the Holy Friday.

Good Friday is a serious and meaningful day for Christians worldwide. It's a time to remember Jesus' sacrifice, think about being selfless and loving to others, and renew one's faith in Christian beliefs.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 27, 2024 01:06 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Before the release of the film Crew, starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tabu, and Kriti Sanon, the actors expressed their excitement by sharing behind-the-scenes images from the sets. Today, Kriti Sanon posted fun photos on social media, followed by Kareena Kapoor, sharing pictures of her getting ready in her flight attendant attire on Instagram. Her makeup team was seen in the photos. Sharing a glimpse from the set, she wrote, "In my cabin with my crew. 2 Days to go." The Crew is scheduled to release on March 29. Crew: Kriti Sanon Seen Having Fun Time With Her Gang As She Shares BTS Pics Ahead of the Films Release!

Kareena Kapoor Khan's Instagram Post

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kareena Kapoor Khan (@kareenakapoorkhan)

(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.)
On 26 March Argentinas defence minister,, signed a letter of intent with his Danish counterpart, to purchase 24 US-made Lockheed Martin F-16As fighter aircraft from Denmark.

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On 26 March Brazils Presidenthosted his French counterpartin the northern city of Belem, capital of Para state, where they sought to highlight common ground on environmental goals.

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Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland collapsed when a container ship struck it on Tuesday. Six workers vanished and are now presumed dead as search efforts were paused for the night due to serious conditions.

Because the six workers have now been presumed dead, the search-and-rescue efforts for them have now been turned into a recovery mission.

"We do not believe that we're going to find any of these individuals still alive," Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon N. Gilreath said.

According to NBC News, because of how cold the water temperature is, the six workers are believed to have not survived as it has been hours since they went missing. However, Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, confirmed that one person had survived.

No names have been released for the six missing workers nor the one that managed to survive. However, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore was holding out hope that they were still alive, along with their loved ones who waited for hours at a Royal Farms convenience store near the entrance of the bridge.

However, when the Coast Guard announced that the six missing workers were presumed dead, it was described as a crushing blow to the loved ones waiting at the nearby convenience store.

Conditions for the recovery efforts have been difficult, and the recovery operations have been temporarily called off for now, with the Maryland governor vowing to use all available resources to find the missing workers.

What Happened When Cargo Ship Collided With Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The cargo ship named Dali was a 984-foot vessel that was traveling at a speed of 8 knots, which is about 9 mph, when it slammed into the bridge in Baltimore, causing it to collapse. This led Gov. Moore to declare a state of emergency while rescue crews used sonar to detect at least five vehicles that fell into the river.

READ MORE: Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador Confirms 7 National Guard Recruits Died After Training Incident

According to CNN, the Dali diverged from a standard route that large ships leaving the port of Baltimore typically used when going under the bridge. It diverged from that usual path just moments before the crash that caused the bridge collapse.

Meanwhile, Gov. Moore quickly ordered the bridge to be closed immediately. He also praised the quick work of authorities in saving many lives. It was also reported that "radio traffic captured how authorities stopped traffic and worked to clear the bridge seconds before the impact."

The National Transportation Safety Board has now opened an investigation into the crash and bridge collapse, with a team of 24 experts being sent to look into the "nautical operations, vessel operations, safety history records, owners, operators, company policy and any sort of safety management systems or programs" of the vessel that caused the Baltimore bridge collapse.

Two Missing Workers From Guatemala

While the identities of the six presumed dead workers are not revealed yet, the Consulate of Guatemala in Maryland has confirmed that two of them were from the country.

The BBC noted that the six missing workers were working on potholes on the bridge when the ship hit, causing the collapse. It is believed that they fell when the ship hit.

READ MORE: Panama: 5 Dead, 1 Missing After Migrant Smuggling Boat Capsizes

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Maryland state of emergency declared after Baltimore bridge collapse - CBS News
Former Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro may soon also be investigated for evading arrest as the Supreme Court of Brazil is demanding answers as to why he stayed at the Hungarian Embassy for two nights at the height of the investigations during his attempted coup. It is noted that Bolsonaro is friends with Hungary's autocrat Viktor Orban.

The Brazil Supreme Court has now ordered the former president to explain why he slept there when investigations were taking place. Should an arrest warrant have been issued against Bolsonaro, Brazilian authorities would not have been able to take him in, as the Hungarian Embassy is considered Hungarian territory.

Brazilian police are now also looking into whether or not he violated earlier court orders when he stayed at the embassy, which happened soon after authorities confiscated both his Brazilian and Italian passports after he was deemed a flight risk.

These latest developments stemmed from a New York Times investigation that revealed that Bolsonaro did try to hide at the Hungarian Embassy, with the outlet obtaining CCTV footage of him arriving and staying there.

As the New York Times noted, this just adds to the myriad of legal cases that the right-wing leader is facing, with the most serious being his attempted coup to oust President Lula and become president again after losing to his rival during the October 2022 election.

Bolsonaro admitted to staying at the embassy, but Brazil Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes stated that public admission was not enough and gave the former president just 48 hours to explain why he stayed there.

Jair Bolsonaro Lawyers Insist Former Brazil President Did Nothing Wrong with Hungarian Embassy Stay

As expected, Bolsonaro continued to deny any wrongdoing regarding his stay at the Hungarian Embassy, even though many of his critics believe he was trying to evade arrest at the height of the investigation into his plotting of a coup.

READ MORE: Jair Bolsonaro Under Probe for Allegedly Harassing a Humpback Whale May Be Fined 2,500 Reais ($500)

"In the days he was at the Hungarian embassy, by invitation, the former Brazilian president spoke to countless authorities from the friendly country for updates on the political scenarios of both nations," Bolsonaro attorneys said in a statement. "Any other interpretations ... constitute an evidently fictional work, with no connection to the reality of the facts."

During a recent rally, Bolsonaro doubled down on this argument, claiming that he often speaks with Hungary President Viktor Orban about various topics, including politics.

Former Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro's Legal Woes

The New York Times report came out a week after Bolsonaro was indicted over allegations of falsifying COVID-19 vaccination data while he was still president, according to CNN.

However, the former Brazilian president, also known as the "Trump of the Tropics," also faces a myriad of legal problems, including his involvement in the January 8 riot, his plot to orchestrate a coup which was only prevented after leaders of the Army and Air Force did not commit to it, and even harassing a humpback whale while on vacation.

READ MORE: Trials for Jair Bolsonaro Supporters Begin Over the January 8 Riots

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Former Brazil President Bolsonaro Hid at Hungary Embassy to Evade Legal Hassles - Firstpost
A significant Venezuelan opposition faction has officially entered a candidate for the upcoming presidential election in July to secure a place on the ballot.

This move comes after electoral authorities and sources revealed on Tuesday that the primary victor and her alternate were unable to complete the registration process, AP News reports.

The broader Venezuela opposition coalition found itself without an elected contender following developments surrounding Maria Corina Machado.

Machado, who emerged victorious in the opposition's nominating contest last year with a substantial majority, intended to challenge incumbent President Nicolas Maduro.

However, complications arose as Machado faced a continuation of a public office ban, which led to the reinstatement of certain sanctions by the United States.

READ NEXT: Maria Corina Machado Taps Corina Yoris for Presidential Bid

Venezuelan Opposition Faces Registration Hurdles Ahead of Election

The Venezuela opposition coalition group Unitary Platform (PUD) faced challenges when trying to register its candidate, Corina Yoris, due to issues accessing the electoral council's website. BBC noted.

These difficulties compound existing obstacles for the PUD, notably since their leader, Maria Corina Machado, is banned from running for public office.

Polls indicate Machado could win against Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro in a fair election.

In contrast, Maduro had a smooth registration process for his third term candidacy, hosting a rally in Caracas with enthusiastic supporters.

Surprisingly, twelve candidates from minor parties, including Manuel Rosales, governor of Zulia state, registered, catching the PUD off guard.

Despite speculation about supporting Rosales, Machado reaffirmed her backing for Yoris. She criticized Maduro for essentially choosing his competitor by impeding Yoris' registration.

Machado's victory in the primary prompted government retaliation, such as imprisonment and warrants against her and members of the Vente Venezuela party.

Polls Favor Machado Amid US Concerns Over Venezuelan Election

Several opinion polls showed Maria Corina Machado, 56, likely to secure over 50% of the votes, while Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro, 61, was projected to receive around 20% in the presidential election.

The potential for Venezuela opposition coalition candidates to match Machado's support remained uncertain, especially without her full endorsement, according to Reuters.

Recent arrests of Machado's allies and warrants for seven others caused international concern.

In response to Machado's upheld ban, imposed over her support for US sanctions and corruption allegations, the US reinstated sanctions and warned of upcoming oil sanctions expirations in April.

A White House National Security Council spokesperson expressed worry over Yoris' registration issues and pledged US collaboration to ensure inclusive elections.

"As we stated in January, we are committed to maintaining sanctions relief if Maduro upholds the commitments outlined in the agreed-to Barbados electoral roadmap," the White House National Security Council spokesperson mentioning the October electoral agreement, which initially resulted in the relaxation of certain sanctions by the US.

They reiterated the United States' commitment to maintain sanctions relief if Maduro followed the Barbados electoral roadmap.

Venezuela's neighbors, Colombia and Brazil, also expressed concerns, urging compliance with the electoral agreement.

READ MORE: Jair Bolsonaro Planned to Stay in Power After Election Loss

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Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Venezuela presidential election: Political opponents barred from contest- From Al Jazeerah English




The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore is still being investigated. However, not long after the incident, right-wing media outlets and conspiracy theorists started spreading misinformation, including conspiracy theories and Alex Jones claiming that this was the start of World War III.

Much of the disinformation also came from X (formerly Twitter) thanks to "verified" accounts with huge followings. These claims are described to be baseless as "verified" users who pay for a premium subscription that boosts their posts claimed that the Dali, the cargo ship that rammed the bridge and caused it to collapse, had been the victim of a cyber-attack. Other conspiracy theories claimed that the ship intentionally rammed the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Axios noted that, in reality, it was not a cyber attack, but it happened thanks to the Singapore-flagged Dali experiencing a power issue. It issued a mayday call before hitting the bridge. Authorities acted quickly and closed the bridge before the ship even hit. However, six workers were presumed to have died in the incident.

Several right-wing accounts on X have claimed that the collision was a result of corporate diversity and inclusion initiatives, a claim that they also made with the current aircraft safety issues at Boeing.

There were other conspiracy theories that claimed that this was a terrorist attack that stemmed from the border crisis, while there were also antisemitic accounts with blue check marks that claimed that Israel was behind the attack.

Some of these posts have been flagged by community notes as baseless and misleading. However, this was already after they went viral.

Right-Wing Media Also Spreading Conspiracy Theories About the Baltimore Bridge Collapse

While much of the misinformation online was quickly hit by community notes that fact-checked them, there were also om-air conspiracy theories that happened from some of the most well-known right-wing media personalities.

READ NEXT: Alex Jones Loses Another Court Battle vs. Sandy Hook Families, Ordered To Pay $965 Million

According to NBC News, one example is Fox Business's Maria Bartiromo. falsely suggested the "wide-open border" could have something to do with the collision. Fox News did not respond to any inquiries on the false information that was reported on one of their channels.

Michael Flynn, Donald Trump's former national security adviser, suggested that the incident was not an accident. Meanwhile, on Newsmax, Matt Schlapp, chairman of the American Conservative Union, claimed without evidence that the "Francis Scott Key Bridge's infrastructure and transportation services were weakened by Covid lockdowns." He also stated that drugs could be behind the collision.

Alex Jones Spreading Conspiracy Theories About Baltimore Bridge Collapse as Expected

The most infamous conspiracy theorist of them all, Alex Jones, also weighed in on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. He claimed that this signaled the start of World War III, according to NDTV World.

"Looks deliberate to me," the conspiracy theorist who was found liable in multiple defamation lawsuits for claiming the 2012 Sandy Hook elementary school mass shooting was a hoax said in his program, Info Wars. "A cyber-attack is probable. WW3 has already started."

Like many others, he made the claim with zero evidence.

READ MORE: Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador Confirms 7 National Guard Recruits Died After Training Incident

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: GOP Uses Baltimore Bridge Collapse To Push DELUSIONAL Theories - Rebel HQ
UPDATE: Lehigh Valley train crash highlights shortcomings of automated railroad braking system

The March 2 derailment of trains along the Lehigh River caused an estimated $2.5 million in damage and sent all seven crew members involved to the hospital, federal investigators said Tuesday.

Three of the railcars that derailed were labeled for hazardous materials, but none breached or released any of their flammable contents, the National Transportation Safety Board said.

NTSB officials released these and additional details in a preliminary report on the incident.

The derailment began about 7:11 a.m. in Lower Saucon Township off Riverside Way, between Bethlehem and Easton.

An eastbound Norfolk Southern Railway train collided with another Norfolk Southern train stopped on the same track, the NTSB said in reinforcing details released the week of the incident. That sent three derailed railcars onto an adjacent track, where a westbound Norfolk Southern train struck the derailed equipment less than a minute after the initial derailment.

The second collision derailed six railcars and two locomotives on the westbound train, the NTSB said.

Three of these derailed railcars were placarded as hazardous materials tank cars: one containing ethanol residue and two containing butane residue, Tuesdays preliminary report states. The tank cars did not breach or release hazardous materials.

Both derailed locomotives ended up partially submerged in the river, where they discharged diesel fuel, investigators said. Responders set up absorbent booms to collect the fuel. A small amount of polypropylene plastic pellets from one car also spilled, officials said the day of the derailment.

A Norfolk Southern train derailed around the 2200 block of Riverside Drive on Saturday morning. Train cars are spread along the bank of the Lehigh River.Mike Nester| For Lehighvalleylive.com

The seven crew members taken to a local hospital were treated for minor injuries and released, according to the NTSB.

Tuesdays report attributes to Norfolk Southern the $2.5 million estimate of damage to equipment and track.

NTSB officials described the two eastbound trains as intermodal and the westbound one was a mixed freight. An intermodal train carries shipping containers used in intermodal freight transportation, according to the board, and a mixed freight train includes several types of railcars and commodities.

According to the preliminary findings:

The eastbound train that was stopped, 24XH101, was traveling from Atlanta to Croxton, New Jersey, and consisted of three lead locomotives and 27 intermodal railcars, with a crew comprising an engineer and a conductor.

Train 268H429 struck the stopped train and was traveling from Landers, Illinois, to Elizabeth, New Jersey, with two lead locomotives, 39 intermodal railcars, and a crew consisting of an engineer and a conductor.

Westbound train 19GH501 was traveling from Croxton to Enola, Pennsylvania, and consisted of two lead locomotives, one distributed power unit and 199 mixed freight railcars. Its crew comprised an engineer, conductor and conductor trainee.

Trains move along the two main tracks in the area of the collision, with movements authorized by wayside signal indications with an overlaid positive train control system and are coordinated by Norfolk Southerns dispatch center in Atlanta, according to the report. A positive train control system enforces speed limits and prevents a train from passing through a signal that requires it to stop, the NTSB said.

The maximum speed in the area was 40 mph, the NTSB said; Norfolk Southerns Keystone Division set the maximum speed for this stretch of its Allentown Road Subdivision effective last Nov. 1, with revisions effective Nov. 27.

Shortly before the collisions, train 24XH101 had stopped on main track 2 because of train traffic, the report states. Train 268H429, approaching from the west, proceeded through a signal that required it to operate at restricted speed.

Train 268H429 was traveling about 13 mph at the time of the first collision. Westbound train 19GH501 was not required to operate at restricted speed and was traveling about 22 mph at the time of the second collision, below the maximum authorized speed.

Federal railroad regulations define restricted speed as below 20 mph (or at a lower limit set by operating rules) and at a speed that will allow the train to stop within one-half the range of vision of the operator, the NTSB notes.

Norfolk Southern spokesman Connor Spielmaker on Tuesday released a statement on the NTSBs preliminary findings, stating: With safety and continuous improvement in mind, Norfolk Southern issued a Serious Incident Notice to all crews shortly after the incident. That was followed by face-to-face conversations across our network. We will be providing further education on restricted speed operations, and will continue working closely with the NTSB on their investigation.

NTSB investigators at the scene completed interviews; inspected locomotives and railcars; tested and downloaded data from positive train control and signal systems; and sent data for laboratory analysis from radio logs, locomotive event recorders, and outward- and inward-facing image recorders.

The NTSBs investigation is ongoing. Future investigative activity will focus on Norfolk Southern rules, procedures and crew training related to train handling, according to Tuesdays update.

Additional parties involved in the investigation include the Federal Railroad Administration; Norfolk Southern; the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen; the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen; and the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers.

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Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
A third student has filed a lawsuit against a local university claiming he deserves a refund for the half-semester of classes he was forced to take remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The DeSales University students lawsuit was filed by the same firm hired by a Lafayette College student and a Lehigh University student, who filed similar claims over the past few months.
Pennsylvania State Police plan to increase patrols to combat aggressive driving over the Easter holiday weekend.

State Police from Bethlehem-based Troop M announced the enforcement, titled, Pennsylvania Aggressive Driving Enforcement Education Program, will commence at 12:01 p.m. Friday and run until 11:59 p.m. Sunday. The enforcement annually targets aggressive driving on state highways. The troop covers Lehigh, Northampton and Bucks counties.

Trooper Nathan Branosky, public information officer for the Troop M, said troopers will be on the lookout for motorists who are speeding, having potential seat belt violations and those with child seat belt infractions. Additionally, troopers will be watching for texting while driving, handheld phone use, careless driving and reckless driving, Branosky said.
There were no reported injuries Tuesday following a tractor-trailer fire that jammed up traffic for hours along Interstate 80 in Delaware Water Gap Borough, Monroe County, a fire official said.

Delaware Water Gap Assistant Fire Chief Lori Ike told lehighvalleylive.com crews from multiple agencies were called just before 4 a.m. for the reported fully-involved blaze. The incident was in the eastbound lanes between exit 310 and Route 611, near the New Jersey border.

Ike said the male driver was able to pull his truck away, leaving the ignited trailer behind. The trailer was hauling hundreds of pallets of oranges, which made it difficult for crews to get inside and knock down the flames, Ike said.

Another challenge was the trailer being fully insulated with a refer and fuel tank, as well as a metal exterior with a 4-inch foam center. Then, there was an interior layer of fiberglass. Crews had to use a back hoe just to tear it apart to get to hot spots, Ike said.

The crews did an excellent job with containment, she said. The trailer was very tough to gain access into.

The fully-involved fire involving a tractor trailer was in the eastbound lanes between exit 310 and Route 611, near the New Jersey border.Delaware Water Gap Fire Dept. photo

It took about an hour and a half to fully extinguish the flames, Ike said. There were no reported injuries.

Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Anthony Petroski, public information officer for Troop N, told lehighvalleylive.com troopers also were called in to assist with traffic. It led to a lane closure along Interstate 80, backing up traffic for hours, 511pa.com, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportations traffic website, reported.

All lanes werent reopened until later in the afternoon Tuesday following an extensive cleanup of the wreckage.

Responding to the scene were fire stations No. 21, 29, and 36. The cause of Tuesdays blaze continues to remain under investigation by the Delaware Water Gap Fire Deptartment.

The fully-involved fire involving a tractor trailer was in the eastbound lanes between exit 310 and Route 611, near the New Jersey border The trailer was hauling hundreds of pallets of oranges, which made it difficult for crews to get inside and knock down the flames, Delaware Water Gap Assistant Fire Chief Lori Ike told lehighvalleylive.com.Delaware Water Gap Fire Dept. photo

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Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
Weather combined with other issues are driving farmers in Laois and other counties out of tillage farming despite it having a big economic and climate change benefit, according to Laois man who represents grain growers around Ireland.

Bobby Miller, is Chairperson of the Irish Grain Growers' and is a tillage farmer near Stradbally.

He spoke to the Leinster Express / Laois Live about the acute problems facing growers locally and nationally this year due to the months of bad weather.

He also took time to discuss more fundamental issues that have driven thousands of farmers out of tillage and are threatening the viability of a farm sector the Government needs to achieve climate change aims.

Mr Miller said March is the ideal time to grow but not this year.

We just cant get out onto the fields. In an ideal world, we should have 70-80% of our crops in the ground. The vast majority of farmers have no spring crops gone into the ground yet.

There are little pockets of ground sown but the clock is moving on and there is no settled weather on the horizon which is of no help, he said.

Mr Miller said March last year was difficult but some work was possible due to the dry February. This has not been the case in 2024.

He said growers know the implications of late sowing.

It means a later harvest. It affects yields and quality of crops. Malting barley is a popular crop in Laois but quality becomes an issue when you sow later. The risks become higher, he said.

Mr Miller said crops grown in Laois and elsewhere must be of high quality for incomes.

If premium is there it hits the pocket very hard, he said.

Apart from grain growing, Mr Miller said the sowing of alternative crops such as beans has been limited. He said less than 5% of what should be sown at this stage in the year has been planted.

Mr Miller is clear that the tillage sector must be helped. He said the Irish Grain Growers have sought financial support via the national Tillage Stakeholder Forum chaired by Matt Dempsey.

He said such support can be justified on grounds other than the impact of weather. He said tillage farming is almost carbon neutral and so, plays a big part in helping the Government reach its carbon reduction targets.

He said the Ukrainian war has also dampened prices due to the importation of a large amount of Ukraine-grown grain. He said this has a knock-on effect financially for Irish growers.

Apart from financial impact, he said the frustration caused by this years problems is affecting farmers wellbeing.

The moral is very low there is no question. We are getting to a stage where many are questioning the economics of growing crops, he said.

He added that the Irish Grain Assurance Scheme (IGAS) recently said that the tillage sector is losing one farmer a week.

From every angle the pressure is being put onto farmers, he said.

He said farmers are looking at their options with retirement from tillage on the minds of many. He added that the next generation may not continue.

It is hard for current tillage farmers to encourage the next generation to take over, he said.

He said problems suffered in tillage farming have an economic impact outside of agriculture nationally and locally. He estimated that 11,000 people are employed in businesses connected to the tillage sector.

On a broader level, he said Irelands tillage sector has a big reputation for quality and yield.

From a national and climate perspective it makes no sense not to support the tillage sector, he said.

Mr Miller said that according to Teagasc data he is growing carbon-neutral crops which is 25 years of the national plan to be net zero.

We are well ahead of the curve in terms of meeting climate change targets, he said.

He said the tillage sector is also key to addressing Irelands biodiversity aims but if tillage farmers suffer so will biodiversity.

He also pointed out the dramatic loss of land for tillage.

We have lost 40% of our tillage area in the last 40 years. They talk about culling livestock - the cull of the tillage sector has already happened, he said.

He estimated that a further 50,000 acres will be lost in 2024.

He also highlighted a contradiction between the importing of grains and other agricultural products. He said 5 million tonnes of feedstuffs are imported into Ireland.

We are highly regulated in the EU yet we are importing feedstuffs from Asia and the Mercusor countries, he said.

He questioned those prepared to use Mercosur-sourced grain as a feedstuff while objecting to importing Mercosur beef and dairy products.
Three year council road programmes may no longer be advisable due to Climate Change, a councillor has suggested.

Independent Cllr Ollie Clooney raised the issue while the latest roads programme was being discussed at the latest monthly meeting of Laois County Council.

I would question the three year programme, said Cllr Clooney.

The roads can go from very good to very bad in a short period of time, he said.

It is just to do with the bad weather. It is to do with Climate Change really, said Cllr Clooney.

I would like to see a separate emergency fund for when the road disintegrates very quickly, he added.

Fianna Fail Cllr Paddy Bracken said there had been incessant rainfall all year.

If this persists and continues we are going to have very poor roads in a lot of country areas, he said.

He said a lot of damage was being done to roads in Mountmellick due to traffic avoiding the town. We certainly could do with more funding, he said.

Fianna Fail Cllr Padraig Fleming said the roads are actually getting worse because of the intense rain.

Fine Gael Cllr John King said some of the roads in Rathdowney were like Beirut at the moment.

Independent Cllr Ben Brennan said he would like to see more outdoor staff employed by the council. We are out in a rural area and we are not getting the money we should get, he said.

In his roads report to the council, Director of Services Simon Walton said Condition Ratings illustrate that ongoing investment in the rehabilitation and improvement of the road network is enhancing overall quality.

It must, however, be noted that prevailing weather conditions, above average rainfall, high water tables, coupled with periodic frosts, provide a scenario whereby the Roadworks Scheme 2024 is presented against the backdrop of a challenging winter for the road network, with an upturn in potholes, rainwater run-off related damage to road edges etc. Significant resources from Roadworks Scheme 2024 will be targeted towards remedying the adverse impacts of Winter 2023/2024, he stated.
New Government plans will not mean the Ukrainian accommodation in Stradbally can be used to house asylum seekers but Laois County Council has received offers that could see people seeking international protection in other parts of Laois, according to county councillors.

This emerged at a meeting in County Hall Portlaoise where county councillors agreed that the ongoing underutilisation of the Stradbally Hall facility was an absolute waste of taxpayers' money. One councillor insisted that it should be used to house Irish homeless people, not asylum seekers.

Councillors gave their views at a meeting in County Hall on the day that the Government agreed on a new accommodation strategy for International Protection applicants. Its planned to move away from full reliance on private providers and towards State-owned accommodation by 2028.

Cllr Aisling Moran, independent, raised the implications of the plans at the Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District meeting on March 27.

She feared the plans laid out for temporary accommodation were in line with what is provided at present for Ukrainians given refuge in Stradbally Hall.

They are going to be using portabins, which is what is in Stradbally and it is going to be State-led. I am asking if we can have a guarantee that it is not going to be used for International Protection Applicants and only for Ukrainians.

At the moment I think it is a disgrace that there are 915 beds vacant in Stradbally. If it is 100 a head it works out at nearly 4 million that there is nobody in, she said.

She feared that a change of legislation might allow the Government to tell the site owner Thomas Cosby that people seeking international protection could be moved into Stradbally.

However, Cllr Paschal McEvoy, Fianna Fail, insisted there was no mention of Stradbally in the new Government plan. Laios County Council's Cathaoirleach was anxious that the wrong signal would sent out about the use of the accommodation for Ukrainians.

He insisted that there would be no change of use.

Currently there are 81 people in Stradbally...I agree that paying for 915 beds is an absolute disgrace and a waste of public money but I know from Thomas Cosby that he will not have anybody but Ukrainians on the site and the end of May is the closing date of the contract.

I also want to emphasise that they are decent people that have come to Stradbally since day one, he said.

Cllr Aidan Mullins, Sinn Fein, said he had visited the Stradbally facility with other councillors a month ago. Cllr Mullins said he learned on the day that there is room for the State to seek a rebate at a later date for accommodation not used.

He also said the units in Stradbally would be removed from the site in June but Cllr Mullins said the local authority is assessing offers.

The council is currently assessing three offers of sites across the county, he said.

Cllr Ben Brennan, independent, was also frustrated by the situation at Stradbally.

I was absolutely gobsmacked to see the (quality of) facilities there and we have people dying on the streets and we will not put them into it. To me, it is a shame on the Government to allow that to happen.



It is all about money. It is terrible to see our people dying on the streetsIrish people should be put in there if they have nowhere else, he said.

Two contracts have been signed by the State, via the Department of Children, Equality, Disability Integration and Youth, with Mr Cosby to provide accommodation for Ukrainians in the Laois town. The first was agreed with the time of the Electric Picnic to house Ukrainians in tents.

It was indicated that this would not be extended but a second contract was subsequently agreed for 915 Ukrainians to be accommodated temporarily at upgraded facilities.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability Integration and Youth said on March 27 that the new national plan would deliver 14,000 State-owned beds by 2028. It says this will be supplemented, as required, by high-standard commercial providers. It is the intention of this new strategy to end the use of unsuitable accommodation options currently relied upon, such as the sole hotel remaining in a given town. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic OGorman announces new approach with Minister Norma Foley and Minister Helen McEntee. PIC: MAXWELLS - NO REPRO FEE

Accommodation in the new strategy will be delivered through the following multi-strand approach:

Use of State land for prefabricated and

modular units

modular units Conversation of commercial buildings

Targeted purchase of medium and larger turnkey properties

Design and build of new Reception and Integration Centres

Upgrading of IPAS centres.

A statement said several State-owned sites have been identified, with assessments underway for use. The Department intends to bring the first sites into use within months. In addition, an expression of interest for possible purchases of accommodation will issue in the coming weeks.

The Department said that while delivering State-owned assets through purchase, build and the use of State land, the delivery by commercial providers will supplement State-owned beds, and seek to raise the overall standard of accommodation within the system.

The statement also said that in addition, the phased and planned approach to accommodation will allow for enhanced community engagement to ensure planning for the provision of essential public services and to assist with the welcome and integration of new arrivals.
Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said he is confident the country is in good hands before attending what is likely to be his last Cabinet meeting before he steps down.

A week ago, Mr Varadkar surprised the Irish political system by announcing he was stepping down as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael.

Further and Higher Education Minister Simon Harris was declared Fine Gael leader on Sunday after other heavyweights in the party said they would not run.

When the Irish Parliament returns from the Easter recess on Tuesday April 9, it will vote on whether Mr Harris will become the next, and youngest, Irish premier.

On his way into Cabinet on Wednesday, Mr Harris said he aims to meet with the other coalition party leaders, Tanaiste and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan.

He also said he would look to turbo charge the programme for government.

Ahead of Cabinet, Mr Varadkar was seen greeting Mr Harris in front of Government Buildings.

Speaking to reporters, Mr Varadkar said this would probably be his last Cabinet meeting, and based on a rough count it is his 650th one.

He added it was quite a busy one as ministers tried to get things approved before the changeover.

When it was put to him that people were finding it difficult to accept there was no scandal or disquiet in Fine Gael that led to his resignation, he said: I know people struggle to accept that politicians tell the truth.

Almost all the time we do, or at least what we believe to be the truth. So, the reasons are the ones that I set out, and it is as simple as that.

Mr Harris told reporters there are real areas that he wants to make progress on.

What in the programme for government could be turbocharged, that could be accelerated, that could be delivered quickly for people? And are there new areas that I as party leader want to outline in terms of the vision for Fine Gael?

Asked about the possible reshuffle among Fine Gael ministers, he said: Im not there at all in my head yet.

What I want to do today is endeavour to meet with my fellow party leaders, with the leader of the Fianna Fail party, the Tanaiste, and the leader of the Green Party Minister Ryan.

He added: I understand, respectively, why the individual appointments matter, and of course they do. But for me right now, the most important thing is policy, what can we get done for the Irish people, because I think theres a real sense out there that people want delivery.

They want politicians to get back to bread-and-butter issues, roll up our sleeves and get stuck in, and from day one thats what Ill do.

Mr Varadkar said he had no advice for Mr Harris about ministerial appointments, but he did have advice for party members.

He said: Rather than giving Simon Harris advice, Id just ask other people in the parliamentary party to give him a fair go.

There are lots of people who are going to be disappointed and thats just the nature of these things.

Dont take it personally. Buckle down, work hard, and as I probably helped to demonstrate in the past couple of weeks, opportunities arise in politics all the time.

Asked if he felt relief going into his last Cabinet meeting, Mr Varadkar said its too early to say.

If there is one thing it is confidence, confidence that theres a really good team there and they will continue the work that Ive been part of for the past 13 years. The country is in good hands.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said his constituency colleague Mr Harris will be Wicklows first taoiseach.

Ive seen the hard work, Ive seen the energy he brings to his role as minister and Ive no doubt hes going to do the same in terms of his role as taoiseach.
The K Club in County Kildare is delighted to announce that Gary OHanlon has been appointed as the resorts new Executive Head Chef.

The award-winning Irish chef, broadcaster and columnist has taken the position at the iconic five star estate following five years as Head Chef of The Condor at the world-famous Chateau du Coudreceau in France. Prior to that, Gary was Head Chef of Viewmount House, Co. Longford from its opening in August 2008 through to 2018 where he racked up a wealth of awards. Including in this, he was the deserving recipient of the revered Georgina Campbell Hospitality Hero Award for services to Irish food.

Originally from Ramelton, near Letterkenny, Gary has been a frequent fixture on our TV screens since 2008 with appearances on MasterChef Ireland, Four Live, The Today Show, Late Lunch Live, The Six O Clock Show, and is the resident Chef on The Restaurant. He also co-hosts the Podcast Dishing It Out alongside fellow chef Gareth Mullins.

The K Clubs General Manager Paul Heery said, We are very excited to welcome Gary into his new role at The K Club. We welcome Garys knowledge in seeking out the very best in locally produced seasonal ingredients, helping to continue to drive the food offering at The K Club.

We feel very privileged to have such a talented chef as the newest member of The K Club family who will take over the baton and continue all the incredible work done over the years by our outgoing Executive Head Chef Philip Brazil, as well as bringing some of his own fresh, new ideas to the table and supporting the team.

Gary OHanlon added, If youd told my younger self I would one day be Executive Head Chef at The K Club I wouldnt have believed you. The K Club is a shining example of hospitality in Ireland and one that I feel very proud to have been asked to become a part of. Whilst its an historic venue, the team is full of fresh thinking and doesnt shy away from new ideas and Im very excited to see where this journey takes us!
The Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman, Liam Sloyan, today published his Overview of Complaints for 2023, detailing the work of the FSPO in resolving complaints from consumers and small businesses or organisations, against financial service providers and pension providers.

Complaints from Kildare residents to the FSPO increased by 48% in 2023 (283 complaints) and ranked third highest across the country for financial service and pension complaints.

Complaints to the FSPO rose to a record high of 6,182 in 2023, increasing 29% since 2022. The number of complaints closed by the FSPO also rose significantly since 2022, by 12%, as the FSPO closed 5,184 complaints.

Despite a steep rise in the number of complaints received, the FSPO closed many of these complaints through dispute resolution (mediation) processes and early-stage assessments and interventions, with 85% of complaints that closed closing within 12 months of the complaint being made.

Key statistics in the Overview include:

6,182 complaints received:

- 24% of complaints concerned Customer Service issues  the conduct most complained of.

- 80% of complaints were made in the Republic of Ireland with 20% made from overseas.

- The banking sector made up 62% (3,850) of complaints received.

- Insurance sector complaints accounted for 23% (1,446) of all complaints made.

- 461 and 336 complaints were received concerning the Investment and Pension sectors respectively.

- This year, the FSPO also began collecting figures for non-regulated entities and 74 such complaints were received.

- Dublin saw the highest number of complaints by county with 1,746 complaints made in 2023. This is followed by Cork (506) and Kildare (283).

5,184 complaints closed, delivering outcomes worth 4,712,120:

- 2,943,493 agreed through mediation

- 321,330 directed through legally binding decisions

- 1,271,754 paid to complainants by providers across 114 complaints which were resolved before the conclusion of the FSPOs formal investigation process.

- 175,543 in redress from providers, which resulted in complaints that were not upheld because the provider had made an offer during the investigation that the FSPO determined was satisfactory.

Commenting, the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman, Liam Sloyan said, Customer service is again the conduct most complained of for the third year in a row. It is disappointing that many of the complaints received by this Office continue to be of a nature that could be resolved earlier, without a need for our services.

Throughout 2023 the FSPO continued to help and assist thousands of customers who were unhappy with the resolution of their complaint by their service provider across banking, insurance, investments and pensions. We managed an increased volume of complaints in 2023 and closed over 500 more complaints than 2022, which is testament to the commitment of our team and a continued focus on improving our processes for customers.

Complaint resolution timelines

Improving complaint resolution timelines has remained a key focus for the FSPO. 85% of complaints that closed in 2023 were closed within 12 months of the complaint being made, mainly through early-stage interventions or dispute resolution (mediation) processes.

For all complaints that closed in 2023, including both tracker mortgage complaints and other complaints, the average time from receipt of complaint to closure, was 8.6 months. Excluding tracker mortgage complaints, the average time from receipt to closure was seven months.

Our Workforce Plan has received approval from the Minister for Finance, which allows us to recruit 38 new employees. These additional resources will improve our capacity to address the rising number of complaints received and will further improve our service delivery.

Referrals to the authorities

Throughout 2023, the FSPO continued to engage and update Government, regulators and policy makers, highlighting trends and potentially systematic issues arising from complaint outcomes which may warrant consideration. Eight legally binding decisions were referred to the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI), as well as 107 tracker mortgage related decisions and 26 decisions issued in complaints concerning declined insurance claims for business interruption losses.

Disputed transactions

Nearly a quarter of all banking complaints received included the conducts grouped under the heading Disputed Transactions, which includes the issue of financial scams and fraud. The FSPO cannot investigate instances of fraud, which are a matter for An Garda Siochana. However, the FSPO does investigate complaints which relate to service failings of the provider in dealing with a customer who suspects fraud on their account.

Liam Sloyan added, It is important for providers to consider what measures they can take to reduce the number of complaints arising. An increase of almost 30% in the number of complaints being made to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman in just one year should be a cause for reflection amongst providers."

Its notable that since the introduction of mediation as the default complaint resolution method to resolve complaints, we have achieved considerable success in facilitating resolution of complaints by agreement directly between providers and their customers. Typically, more than 70% of complaints referred to mediation are successfully resolved through a mediation settlement or clarification of the complaint.
A brand new historical novel has been released by from Newbridge-based author Maria McDonald.

The summary for Maria McDonald's new book reads as follows: "One lie changes a familys path for generationsand finally brings them back to Ireland, in this saga by the author of 'Charlie Mac', 'The Devils Own' and 'Tangled Webs'.

"In May 1917, the Americans sailed into Cork to join the Great War. When they left two years later, they brought their war brides with them, including Lizzie McCarthy.

"Still reeling from the tragic death of her sister Maggie, Lizzie leaves Ireland hoping for a better life with her new husband Ed Anderson.

"Lizzie soon finds that America is not the land of opportunity she thought it was. Despite the obstacles in her path, she makes a good life for herself and her family. Eds sisters become her closest friends and allies.

"At home, Irelands bloody civil war ends. Lizzies brother Jimmy joins her and becomes part of the family, until he feels compelled to return to a new independent Ireland.

"But another conflict is on the horizon, and as their family grows and plants roots in America, they take the once-unimaginable step of boarding a plane and visiting Ireland. Once there, will Lizzie finally learn the truth about her sisters death?"

SIGNING EVENT

Farrell and Nephew Gift and Bookstore, which is located on the Main Street of Newbridge, will be hosting a book launch for Maria McDonald on Saturday, April 6.

The event will begin at 2pm.

Everyone is invited to call in for some refreshments and to get a copy of 'The Keeper of Secrets' signed by the author.

'The Keeper of Secrets' is her fourth novel, and the third to be published by Bloodhound Books UK, which is owned by Open Road Media.

To keep up to date with Maria McDonald and her literary works, you can visit https://mariamacwriter.wordpress.com/.
The commitment on State-owned beds for international protection applicants will be quadrupled by 2028, the Government has said.

The Department of Integration has set a target of 14,000 State-owned beds by 2028 as part of a move away from full reliance on private providers.

The announcement comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Governments handling of asylum-seeker accommodation, with the State currently not able to provide housing for all male arrivals  in contravention of international commitments.

The Cabinet signed off the new strategy for international protection applicants on Wednesday, which was described by the Department of Integration as comprehensive.

It includes a multi-strand approach to tackle accommodation shortages while reforming the system in the longer term.

The 14,000 target is four times a previous commitment made in the Governments 2021 White Paper on the direct-provision system for asylum seekers.

The department said that, where required, these State-owned beds will be supplemented by commercial providers.

Over the last year, there has been a spate of arson attacks on buildings earmarked or rumoured to be used for housing asylum seekers.

The department said its new approach will allow for improved community engagement around integrating international protection applicants, including limits on what buildings can be used.

It said: It is the intention of this new strategy to end the use of unsuitable accommodation options currently relied upon, such as the sole hotel remaining in a given town.

The department said it will be designing new reception and integration centres while upgrading existing International Protection Accommodation Services buildings.

Accommodation in the new strategy will also be delivered through use of State land for prefabricated and modular units, conversion of commercial buildings and the targeted purchase of larger turnkey properties.

The department said a number of State-owned sites have been identified, with the first to be brought into use within months.

It was a commitment of the Programme for Government to end the direct-provision system of accommodating those seeking refuge from conflict and persecution.

The department says that its new plan for 14,000 State-owned beds maintains the guiding principles of the White Paper on ending direct provision.

Integration Minister Roderic OGorman said: The Comprehensive Accommodation Strategy agreed today by Government will address the immediate accommodation crisis in international protection, and provide a pathway, over the next five years, to deliver a fair, efficient, and sustainable model of accommodating international protection applicants.

The strategy will allow us to develop a system where the State holds the reins on accommodation, its location and its standards. By ending the reliance on private providers, and increasing the proportion of State-owned accommodation, we can bring certainty and stability into the system.
An estimated 35,000 international-protection applicants may be housed at any one time across private and State-owned accommodation by 2028, according to new plans.

On Wednesday, the Cabinet signed off a strategy designed to tackle accommodation shortages while reforming the asylum system in the longer term.

The announcement comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Governments handling of asylum-seeker accommodation, with the State currently not able to provide housing for all male arrivals  in contravention of international commitments.

The new strategy involves quadrupling the commitment for State-owned beds to 14,000 by 2028 when compared with a previous pledge in 2021, as part of a move away from full reliance on private providers.

It is understood this will see the State owning and operating dozens of accommodation centres across the country.

The Department of Integration will give consideration to spreading the accommodation centres around the country in a way that is proportionate to local populations.

This will be complemented by commercially owned centres for contingency and emergency use, with total capacity up to 35,000.

It is understood that there is awareness the need for accommodation may exceed that figure at some point.

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of international applicants arriving in Ireland.

It is projected that there could be up to 16,000 new arrivals every year, up from between 3,000 to 5,000 between 2015-2019.

There are currently around 28,000 people housed by International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) and more than 1,400 people waiting on an offer of accommodation.

Integration Minister Roderic OGorman said: Its clear that the current system for accommodation isnt working, as since the current system was put in place more than 20 years ago, the State has been almost entirely reliant on private providers.

Speaking to reporters in Dublin, he added: We need to have a system where the State holds the reins on accommodation, its location and standards.

Without this, we cant put in place the supports for those who arrive here may need. Even prior to the current increase in international-protection applications, the system was desperately in need of reform.

He said the department will be provided with State lands to quickly introduce new accommodation through renovation and rapid-build modular units.

Approximately 40 million euro has been allocated for the strategy next year.

Over the last year, there has been a spate of arson attacks on buildings earmarked or rumoured to be used for housing asylum seekers.

The department said its new approach will allow for improved community engagement around integrating international protection applicants, including limits on what buildings can be used.

It said: It is the intention of this new strategy to end the use of unsuitable accommodation options currently relied upon, such as the sole hotel remaining in a given town.

The department said it will be designing new reception and integration centres while upgrading existing IPAS buildings.

The Government has also agreed to further extend planning exemptions to allow for the conversion of commercial properties to international-protection accommodation, with a focus on empty office blocks.

Office blocks are mostly expected to be leased, but could be considered for purchase on a case-by-case basis if there are expressions of interest from building owners.

Mr OGorman said: The department is being supported financially by the Department of Public Expenditure through new capital ceilings agreed today, to allow a targeted purchase of medium and larger properties in turnkey or near-current turnkey condition.

Office blocks are seen as an untapped resource due to the current downturn in the commercial property sector and because their use would not affect the residential market. These buildings are mostly in urban areas already connected with services and transport links.

It is also understood the department is not focusing on the tourism sector for beds.

The department said a number of State-owned sites have been identified, with the first to be brought into use within months.

It was a commitment of the Programme for Government to end the direct-provision system of accommodating those seeking refuge from conflict and persecution.

The department says that its new plan for 14,000 State-owned beds maintains the guiding principles of the White Paper on ending direct provision.

Mr OGorman said: The comprehensive accommodation strategy agreed today by Government will address the immediate accommodation crisis in international protection, and provide a pathway, over the next five years, to deliver a fair, efficient, and sustainable model of accommodating international protection applicants.

The strategy will allow us to develop a system where the State holds the reins on accommodation, its location and its standards.

By ending the reliance on private providers, and increasing the proportion of State-owned accommodation, we can bring certainty and stability into the system.
Glen Campbell's daughter and Thor Jensen take The Glens Centre stage next Saturday, March 30, at 8pm.

As the duo Ashley Campbell and Thor Jensey form a unique meeting of musical genres, they are set to perform a fresh sound with a diverse background, from rock to gipsy jazz, on stage.

Ashley began her career playing in her father's band on several world tours and has found success as a solo artist in the country music scene. She wrote her debut single, "Remembering," for her father.



Her original music has taken her all over the world, from China to Japan, to the mainstage at London's O2 Arena to opening for Kris Kristofferson and the Bellamy Brothers.

She has also been spotlighted for her banjo playing with Rascal Flatts in the music video for their hit single "Banjo". Thor Jensen, a virtuoso guitarist and songwriter from New York, has travelled many different roads.

From touring the world with Hazmat Modine, playing Americana with Quiet Life, and opening for the likes of Dr. Dog, Portugal. The Man and Shovels and Rope, then on joining the Stephane Wrembel Band, playing the music of Django Reinhardt, performing at Carnegie Hall and all over the world while immersing himself in New York's jazz scene.

Ashley and Thor started Campbell/Jensen in late 2021 and have been playing music together ever since. Both are strong instrumentalists, and together, they create a unique blend of Thor's deep baritone and Ashley's clear-as-a-bell vocals. Their debut album, "Turtle Cottage," is out now.
Cllr Mary Bohan asked that the council call again on the government to bring all applications for afforestation planting and felling under the Local Authority Regulations as a matter of urgency.

She said: "I don't see why it's not subject to planning. You apply for a license and very often submissions are ignored. It doesn't make sense you can do all this work and don't have to go through the statutory planning agency which is the council in this case."

She added: "There is no will to change this; the government seems to want to leave it the way it is. I propose that we write to them again."

Cathaoirleach, Cllr Just Warnock said: "We have enough trees and the council have made a lot of submissions and nobody is listening to them and now they are following through with an appeal. It's the beginning of a change that should have a benefit to Leitrim. Leitrim is the first county in Ireland to actually appeal anything in relation to forestry."

Cllr Sean McDermott said he agreed that forestry should be subject to planning regulations. "There needs to be some control on forestry."

Cllr Frank Dolan also supported the motion, as did Cllr Felim Gurn.
AtkinsRealis announces private offering of $400 million of unsecured debentures





MONTREAL, March 26, 2024 /CNW/ - AtkinsRealis [SNC-Lavalin Group Inc.] (TSX: ATRL), a fully integrated professional services and project management company with offices around the world, announced today that it has priced an offering of $400 million aggregate principal amount of 5.70% Series 8 unsecured debentures due March 26, 2029 (the Series 8 Debentures). The Series 8 Debentures are being offered through a syndicate of agents led by BMO Capital Markets, CIBC Capital Markets, National Bank Financial Markets, and Scotiabank as joint bookrunners, and which also includes RBC Dominion Securities Inc., TD Securities Inc., BNP Paribas (Canada) Securities Inc., BofA Securities, SMBC Nikko and Desjardins Securities Inc. The Series 8 Debentures will be issued at par and closing is expected to occur on or about March 28, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions. AtkinsRealis intends to use the net proceeds of the offering to repay existing indebtedness and for general corporate purposes.

The Series 8 Debentures will bear interest at a fixed annual rate of 5.70%, payable in equal semi-annual instalments, in arrears, on March 26 and September 26 of each year until maturity, commencing on September 26, 2024.

The Series 8 Debentures will be direct unsecured obligations of AtkinsRealis, will rank pari passu with all other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of AtkinsRealis (including all of its other existing debentures as well as indebtedness under its existing main credit agreement) and will be guaranteed by the same subsidiaries that guarantee AtkinsRealis' obligations under its existing main credit agreement and its other outstanding debentures.

On March 18, 2024, DBRS Limited (Morningstar DBRS) changed the trend on AtkinsRealis to positive from stable and on March 20, 2024, Standard & Poor's (S&P) revised the outlook on the Company to positive from negative. The Series 8 Debentures have been assigned a provisional rating of BB (high), with a positive trend by Morningstar DBRS and BB+ by S&P and they are being offered in each of the Provinces of Canada on a private placement basis in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus requirements under applicable securities legislation. The Series 8 Debentures will be subject to a restricted period ending four months and one day from the day of issuance in accordance with applicable securities laws.

The Series 8 Debentures have not been and will not be qualified for sale to the public under applicable securities laws in Canada and, accordingly, any offer and sale of the Series 8 Debentures in Canada will be made on a basis which is exempt from the prospectus requirements of such securities laws. No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. The Series 8 Debentures have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under, or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of, the U.S. Securities Act. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the Series 8 Debentures in any jurisdiction where it is unlawful to do so.

About AtkinsRealis

Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRealis is a world-leading professional services and project management company dedicated to engineering a better future for our planet and its people. We create sustainable solutions that connect people, data and technology to transform the world's infrastructure and energy systems. We deploy global capabilities locally to our clients and deliver unique end-to-end services across the whole life cycle of an asset including consulting, advisory & environmental services, intelligent networks & cybersecurity, design & engineering, procurement, project & construction management, operations & maintenance, decommissioning and capital. The breadth and depth of our capabilities are delivered to clients in strategic sectors such as Engineering Services in key regions (Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, as well as Asia, the Middle East and Australia), Nuclear and Capital. News and information are available at www.atkinsrealis.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

Forward-looking Statements

Reference in this press release to the "Company" or to "AtkinsRealis" means, as the context may require, SNC-Lavalin Group Inc. or all or some of its subsidiaries or joint arrangements or associates. Statements made in this press release that describe the Company's or management's expectations or strategies constitute "forward-looking statements", which can be identified by the use of the conditional or forward-looking terminology such as "expects", "forecasts", "intends", "may", "objective", "plans", "projects", "should", "will", "likely", or the negative thereof or other variations thereon. Forward-looking statements also include any other statements that do not refer to historical facts. Specific forward-looking statements in this news release, include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the offering of Series 8 Debentures and the intended timing and use of proceeds thereof, and with respect to the credit ratings assigned to the Series 8 Debentures. All such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the "safe-harbour" provisions of applicable Canadian securities laws. The Company cautions that, by their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and that its actual actions and/or results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements, or could affect the extent to which a particular projection materializes. Forward-looking statements are presented for the purpose of assisting investors and others in understanding certain key elements of the Company's current objectives, strategic priorities, expectations and plans, and in obtaining a better understanding of the Company's business and anticipated operating environment. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements made in this press release are based on a number of assumptions believed by the Company to be reasonable as at the date hereof. The assumptions are set out throughout the Company's 2023 annual management's disclosure & analysis ("MD&A") (particularly in the sections entitled "Critical Accounting Judgments and Key Sources of Estimation Uncertainty" and "How We Analyze and Report our Results") filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada, available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.atkinsrealis.com under the "Investors" section. If these assumptions are inaccurate, the Company's actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. In addition, important risk factors could cause the Company's assumptions and estimates to be inaccurate and actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by these forward-looking statements. Those risks are identified in the Company's MD&A (particularly in the sections entitled "Risk and Uncertainties") and are not exhaustive. The forward-looking statements herein reflect the Company's expectations as at the date of this press release and are subject to change after this date. The Company does not undertake to update publicly or to revise any such forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable legislation or regulation.

SOURCE AtkinsRealis

26 march 2024 at 20:45

News published onand distributed by:
Endeavour Announces Completion of Investigation and Key Findings





ENDEAVOUR ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF INVESTIGATION AND KEY FINDINGS

London, 27 March 2024 ? The Board of Directors of Endeavour Mining plc (LSE:EDV, TSX:EDV, OTCQX:EDVMF) ("Endeavour" or the "Company" and, together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") announces that the investigation commissioned following the termination of Sebastien de Montessus as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company (the "Investigation") is now complete.

Summary of Key Outcomes

No restatement of historic financial statements and no material impact on 2023 annual financial results issued today, which are the subject of an unmodified audit opinion.

Investigation found that Mr de Montessus, acting with certain others who are not employees of the Group: diverted a US$5.9 million payment to a third-party company, and concealed his actions with repeated false representations to management, the Board and auditors; caused Endeavour to make two payments totalling US$15.0 million to the same third-party company, deliberately disguising them as advance payments to a contractor through repeated false representations to management.

No evidence of bribery, or of any payments being made to sanctioned persons or to terrorist groups.

Ultimate beneficiaries of these payments have not been discovered, despite extensive investigation.

Mr de Montessus provided implausible and untrue explanations of his conduct during the course of the Investigation.

The Investigation is now complete.

Summary of Actions Taken and Proposed

Mr de Montessus was terminated as CEO and President on 4 January.

Clawback of remuneration totalling US$29.1 million announced on 18 January.

Noting that these payments involved deliberate circumvention of our existing controls framework, the Board has nonetheless accelerated its review of internal controls in line with the new UK Corporate Governance Code, and has made immediate adjustments to certain controls relating to M&A activity.





Srinivasan Venkatakrishnan ("Venkat"), Chairman of Endeavour, commented: "The Board's actions illustrate the high importance we place on integrity, governance and transparency. We will not waver from these values. The conclusion of the Investigation enables us to put this matter behind us and focus on delivery and creating value for all our stakeholders. Under the highly experienced leadership of Ian Cockerill, we are confident we will deliver on our two high-quality development projects and move towards a period of free cash generation."

Background and Scope of Investigation

As announced on 4 January 2024, the Board had recently become aware of an irregular payment instruction issued in March 2021 for an amount of US$5.9 million owed to Endeavour in connection with the sale of the Agbaou mine. Mr de Montessus instructed Allied Gold, the purchaser of the Agbaou mine, to pay this amount to a third-party company rather than to a member of the Group, thereby settling the debt from the purchaser's perspective. The payment was concealed from the Company by Mr de Montessus and he made repeated and deliberate false representations to management, the Board and the Company's auditor that this amount remained owing from the purchaser. As a result, a receivable representing this amount was maintained on the Group's balance sheet until Q3 2023, when it was written off based on further deliberate false representations by Mr de Montessus.

When challenged about these facts in an interview on 4 January 2024, Mr de Montessus admitted to issuing the irregular payment instruction, to concealing the fact of the payment to the third-party company, and to knowingly misrepresenting the receivable as outstanding over a period of more than two years. As a result of his serious misconduct, the Board terminated Mr de Montessus as CEO on 4 January 2024 and the Remuneration Committee of the Board determined to claw back remuneration totalling $29.1 million as announced on 18 January 2024.

The Board instructed its external advisers, Linklaters LLP and Ernst & Young LLP, to investigate the US$5.9 million payment to determine the beneficiaries of the diverted funds. The Investigation also uncovered evidence of two further payments, with a total value of US$15.0 million, to the same third-party recipient as the US$5.9 million payment. The scope of the Investigation also included the circumstances of these payments.

In order to provide additional comfort in relation to the opening balance sheet position for the 2023 calendar year, the Investigation also examined receivables written off by the Group on 31 December 2022 to ascertain whether any of them had in fact been settled by way of payment to a third party, in a similar manner to the US$5.9 million payment.

The external advisors conducting the Investigation were authorised by the Board to access all relevant documents, records and information of the Company and to conduct interviews with any individual deemed appropriate.

Prior to the conclusion of the investigation work, Mr de Montessus was interviewed for a second time in late February.

Overview of Investigation Findings

The Investigation identified evidence that Mr de Montessus, acting with certain others who are not (and were not at any time) employees of the Group:

diverted a consideration payment with a value of US$5.9 million, relating to the disposal of the Agbaou mine, to a third-party company in March 2021, and concealed this payment by subsequently making false representations to management, the Board and the Group's auditors over a period of more than two years that the receivable was still outstanding; and

had previously, in August and November 2020, caused Endeavour to make two payments totalling US$15.0 million to the same third-party company as the US$5.9 million payment, by deliberately disguising the US$15.0 million as advance payments to a contractor through repeated false representations to management, causing an aggregate loss of that amount to Endeavour and/or the contractor.

Despite extensive efforts, the Investigation was not able to establish the ultimate beneficiaries of the payments to this third-party entity. This entity was incorporated as an offshore entity in Ras al Khaimah in the UAE and was liquidated on the day after the payment of the US$5.9 million in March 2021. Through searches by professional investigation agents, thorough enquiries were made in the UAE, but the investigation work was unable to ascertain the true beneficial ownership of this entity, which was concealed from the Company by Mr de Montessus and those with whom he acted.

Although Mr de Montessus attended two interviews during the Investigation, he continued to attempt to conceal his motives and actions relating to the events being investigated by providing untrue and misleading explanations for his conduct.

Since 4 January 2024, Mr de Montessus has publicly stated that the US$5.9 million payment which he deliberately diverted in March 2021 was used to pay for security equipment to protect the Group's partners and employees in a conflict zone. However, based on the information given by Mr de Montessus in interviews and the other evidence available to the Investigation (including the evidence that Mr de Montessus had caused US$15.0 million to be paid by Endeavour to the same third-party company in different circumstances in 2020), his explanation was found to be implausible and untrue.

Although the Investigation did not ascertain the ultimate beneficiaries of the payments to the third-party entity, in the course of the extensive review of documentation and interviews, no evidence was identified of bribery, or of any payments to sanctioned persons or to terrorist groups.

The Investigation did not identify evidence that any of the receivables written off on 31 December 2022 had in fact already been settled by payments to third parties.

The findings of the Investigation do not trigger any requirement to restate prior interim quarterly financial statements, annual financial statements and associated management discussion and analysis, nor do they materially affect the 2023 annual financial results.

For further information, please refer to the 2023 Annual Report at the following link.

Proposed Actions

The Investigation revealed strong evidence that Mr de Montessus abused his position as CEO, actively misleading both the Board and the senior executive team through repeated and deliberate false representations and concealment of information over a sustained period. His termination as CEO was therefore the most important step in protecting the Group from further conduct of this nature.

Whilst the circumstances clearly indicated deliberate overriding of controls, active concealment and misrepresentation by the former CEO, the Company is evaluating its overall control environment, including the impact of "tone at the top". In the interim, the Company has added further mechanisms, such as additional dual controls in committing the Company within the context of M&A and subsequent renegotiations, so that the risk of such events is further minimised in the future. The Audit Committee of the Board has determined that there are no material weaknesses in the Group's Internal Controls over Financial Reporting or Disclosure Controls & Procedures.

The Board has reserved its position regarding the possibility of pursuing Mr de Montessus for recovery of amounts lost by the Group as a result of his actions.

This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) no 596/2014 (MAR) as it forms part of UK Domestic Law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Jack Garman

Vice President, Investor Relations

+44 203 011 2723

[email protected] Brunswick Group LLP in London

Carole Cable, Partner

+44 7974 982 458

[email protected]

ABOUT ENDEAVOUR MINING PLC

Endeavour Mining is one of the world's senior gold producers and the largest in West Africa, with operating assets across Senegal, Cote d'Ivoire and Burkina Faso and a strong portfolio of advanced development projects and exploration assets in the highly prospective Birimian Greenstone Belt across West Africa.

A member of the World Gold Council, Endeavour is committed to the principles of responsible mining and delivering sustainable value to its employees, stakeholders and the communities where it operates. Endeavour is listed on the London and Toronto Stock Exchanges, under the symbol EDV.

For more information, please visit www.endeavourmining.com.

Neither Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" including but not limited to, statements with respect to Endeavour's plans for further exploration of the Tanda-Iguela property, the extent and timing of Endeavour's drilling campaign, the timing of the updated mineral resource estimate, the estimation of mineral resources, and the success of exploration activities. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "expects", "expected", "budgeted", "forecasts", and "anticipates". 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 international operations; risks related to general economic conditions and credit availability, actual results of current exploration activities, unanticipated reclamation expenses; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; fluctuations in prices of metals including gold; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, increases in market prices of mining consumables, possible variations in ore reserves, grade or recovery rates; 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; delays in the completion of development or construction activities, changes in national and local government regulation of mining operations, tax rules and regulations, and political and economic developments in countries in which Endeavour operates. Although Endeavour 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. Please refer to Endeavour's most recent Annual Information Form filed under its profile at www.sedar.com for further information respecting the risks affecting Endeavour and its business.

Attachment

27 march 2024 at 03:00

News published onand distributed by:
Regula and RADEX BCMS Collaborate to Enhance Caribbean Border Control with Swift Identity Verification





The Aruban Immigration Authority has set up an online Embarkation and Disembarkation (ED) program to facilitate the process of passport control at the border. Using this system, travelers obtain online entry permission before flying to Aruba. This procedure allows the Aruban authorities to gather necessary data beforehand, allowing travelers to enjoy smooth and fast document processing at the border while maintaining a high level of security.

RADEX BCMS has successfully developed and integrated an effective border management solution in Aruba. For the initial release, they partnered with a vendor which provided document readers; however, while they aimed for excellence, they encountered challenges, as the readers did not fully meet their high expectations, primarily due to extended processing times and service-related issues. To improve the workflow of their border control management system, RADEX BCMS substituted the previous devices with Regula flagship document readers.

Now, the Regula 7034M is a cornerstone for comprehensive identity verification (IDV) ? it instantly scans a passport page and automatically checks major security features in white, infrared, ultraviolet, and coaxial lights. The advanced optical character recognition, trained to work with identity documents, recognizes all sorts of data, including engraved and embossed text. Smart algorithms instantly read data from barcodes and machine-readable zones, as well as RFID chips.

By leveraging the advanced technologies provided by Regula & RADEX BCMS, the Aruban authorities have succeeded in decreasing document verification time at border crossings by an impressive 300%. Now, it takes only 10 seconds to process a passport. As a result, travelers benefit from expedited admissions, while authorities can effectively manage and screen incoming travelers.

"Our collaboration with Regula has been truly fruitful. By significantly reducing the time needed for identity verification at our borders, we not only enhance the efficiency of border management but also significantly improve the travel experience for thousands of individuals. This success reflects our commitment to leveraging innovative solutions to meet the demands of modern security and mobility, ensuring that safety and convenience go hand-in-hand. We are looking forward to extending our partnership and growing new experience with Regula," says Frank Baks, Director at RADEX BCMS.

"As a company with over 30 years of experience developing IDV hardware and software, we always welcome the opportunity to participate in projects which require complete solutions for border management. This gives us a chance not only to contribute our accumulated knowledge, but also to learn and gather more information to develop future products. Aruba is an example of a unique system that, on the one hand, makes visitors feel welcome by providing them with fast and less stressful border crossing, and, on the other hand, maintains a solid system of checking and verification," says Arif Mamedov, President and CEO at Regula Forensics, Inc.

About RADEX BCMS

RADEX BCMS develops state-of-the-art software for border control management, immigration platforms for pre-enrollment of travelers, Tourism Information Systems, and eGoverment solutions. Their main solution is a complete border control management system (BCMS) developed with the latest hardware and software for multi-biometric capture and search capabilities. The system is an application with an extensive array of modules that is developed as a turnkey solution to assist government agencies involved in law enforcement activities and protection of country borders.

Learn more at http://www.radexbcms.com.

About Regula

Regula is a global developer of forensic devices and identity verification solutions. With our 30+ years of experience in forensic research and the largest library of document templates in the world, we create breakthrough technologies in document and biometric verification. Our hardware and software solutions allow over 1,000 organizations and 80 border control authorities globally to provide top-notch client service without compromising safety, security or speed. Regula has been repeatedly named a Representative Vendor in the Gartner Market Guide for Identity Verification.

Learn more at www.regulaforensics.com.

27 march 2024 at 03:05

News published onand distributed by:
Portal Unveils RAFA: The First Generative AI Investment App with Financial Intelligence for Both Traditional and Crypto Markets





Portal, a fintech infrastructure provider enabling financial superintelligence and self-sovereignty, today announced the launch of RAFA, an AI-powered investing copilot engineered to transform personal investment strategies for everyone. RAFA is the first intelligent investment app capable of providing generative AI-powered financial intelligence across traditional assets, such as stocks, ETFs, mutual funds and bonds, and digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

"RAFA represents a milestone in financial education and empowerment by equipping users with the knowledge and tools for wealth deployment and creation across both traditional and digital asset classes," said Chandra Duggirala, co-founder and CEO of Portal. "At Portal, we are committed to empowering our users through education to achieve financial independence. RAFA is a master financial platform at scale that opens doors for informed investing decisions across traditional and alternative emerging asset classes like crypto and web3 assets."

Built by a team of former Nvidia AI engineers, RAFA utilizes a team of AI Agents to continuously analyze millions of data points, which are used to inform models for users' portfolios. These agents not only optimize risk and minimize drawdowns through strategic diversification but also identify investment alternatives tailored to individual styles. RAFA features a sophisticated and proprietary trend score system that captures intraday, short-term and long-term market trends to align investments with user-defined portfolio objectives.

Each proprietary model specializes in a specific function such as fundamental analysis, momentum analysis, hedging strategy, risk, macro and financial planning. RAFA's multi-agent collaborative architecture employs a blend of quantitative models and large language models that converse in real-time, exchange ideas and synthesize new financial insights personalized to each individual user. It's akin to having a team of experts each specializing in one area, working together continuously around the clock.

RAFA creates a personalized experience at scale that stores memories, reflections and interactions for nuanced financial insights, fostering a dynamic dialogue between users and AI Agents. Portal's AI Agents ? such as Analyst Pro, News Guru, Strategy Wiz, Quant Pro and Macro Pro ? work in collaboration to provide RAFA users with unique, actionable insights. In the near future, RAFA will add AI Agent capabilities for performing tasks on a blockchain by connecting RAFA's AI Agent capabilities to wallets and other decentralized applications (dApps) in the crypto ecosystem.

"The first AI Agents in the financial industry emerged in the 1990s and early 2000s with significant advancements in machine learning and data processing capabilities. These advancements allowed for the analysis of massive datasets to unearth market trends and identify opportunities potentially unnoticed by humans," said Abhinav Sinha, head of AI at Portal. "The adoption of AI Agents surged in the 2010s, fueled by the explosion of big data, improved computational power and machine learning models, which enabled the development of high-frequency trading strategies, portfolio management, risk assessment and predictive analytics. However, historically, access to AI Agents in financial investing has been concentrated among large financial institutions with significant resources, expertise and technical infrastructure. We are seeking to change that with RAFA."

The unveiling of RAFA highlights Portal's relentless pursuit of innovation and cements its position as a leader in fintech infrastructure. RAFA's launch follows Portal's $34 million dollar fundraising round, the successful testnet launch of its DEX and Wallet products and the establishment of strategic partnerships with industry giants such as BRC20.com, BSquaredNetwork, Babylon and Ordiswap.

Download RAFA at the Apple App Store. RAFA is offered as a monthly subscription of $29.99/month after a free trial.

To learn more about RAFA, visit https://rafa.ai.

About Portal

Portal is a fintech infrastructure provider democratizing wealth creation and enabling financial self-sovereignty with technology for accessing traditional and crypto assets. A builder of the foundational pieces of technology required for a trustless and inclusive economy, Portal offers an advanced technological infrastructure, improved systems for coordination and easy-to-use tools previously only available to large institutions and hedge funds. Portal enables individual investors to exchange digital assets across blockchain networks with greater efficiency and speed, lower costs, increased transparency and enhanced security and privacy. A pioneer with passion and an advocate for free and unfettered markets, Portal is based in the San Francisco Bay Area and backed by Coinbase Ventures, Arrington Capital, OKX Ventures, Gate.io and many other prominent fintech/crypto investors. For more information, visit https://portaldefi.com.

27 march 2024 at 06:05

News published onand distributed by:
Falco Reaches Another Major Milestone and Confirms Admissibility of Its Horne 5 Project's Environmental Impact Assessment





MONTREAL, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Falco Resources Ltd. (TSX.V: FPC) ("Falco" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce the receipt of confirmation of the admissibility of its Environmental Impact Assessment ("EIA") for the Horne 5 Project located in Rouyn-Noranda (the "Admissibility") from the Ministry of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks ("MEFCCWP").

Since the initial EIA filing in 2018, Falco has completed extensive field work and studies, in addition to providing the documentation in order to respond to questions and requests for information raised by the MEFCCWP. Driven by ESG principles, the EIA was conducted by a multidisciplinary team comprised of Falco's employees, experts and partners, and highlights the Horne 5 Project's benefits and impacts on its physical, biological and human environments. The EIA includes various measures to avoid, mitigate or compensate for these impacts, and to enhance the project's overall benefits, in a strong corporate governance environment. The EIA and all related documentation are publicly available on the Environmental Assessment Register of the MEFCCWP.

Luc Lessard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Falco noted: "In addition to the recent conclusion of the Operating License and Indemnity Agreement with Glencore Canada Corporation on January 23, 2024, the Horne 5 Project's EIA Admissibility from the MEFCCWP constitutes another significant milestone in advancing closer to the development and realization of the Horne 5 Project. Falco's team has been working extremely hard on the environmental permitting process, and the EIA Admissibility provides the path forward for the advancement of the Project. Although important steps remain, we strongly believe in the Horne 5 Project as a green and world-class polymetallic project that will benefit the surrounding communities. We would like to thank everyone involved at the MEFCCWP for their work and continued assistance throughout this process. Falco would also like to thank the communities of Rouyn-Noranda for their engaged and active participation and continuous support."

Public Hearing Process

The EIA Admissibility allows Falco to progress towards the public hearing process to be hosted by the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement ("BAPE") following the issuance by the MEFCCWP of a BAPE mandate to conduct such public hearing process, which notably involves a 45-day public information period, beginning April 24, 2024, in addition to a 4-month public hearing process. Falco's stakeholders will be invited to this public information period which will allow them to meet Falco's team, ask questions and obtain information on the Horne 5 Project. For more information, please refer to the following MEFCCWP link: https://www.ree.environnement.gouv.qc.ca/index.asp

Since 2019, Falco has been interacting and working with its host milieu and stakeholders, including its Consultation Committee. The comments, questions and ideas collected during these discussions have helped Falco gain a better understanding of the challenges and concerns of our stakeholders in order to develop a proposal for the Horne 5 Project that fosters the harmonious cohabitation of all stakeholders in the region with this mining project of a new generation.

Helene Cartier, Vice President, Environment, Sustainable Development and Community Relations added: "We are extremely grateful to our stakeholders and host communities, who participate in our consultation activities and initiatives, allowing us to develop a great project for the Rouyn-Noranda region. We remain committed to continuing to develop a collaborative project and making it a source of pride for our communities. Our team is ready and proud to initiate the BAPE process."

About Falco

Falco Resources Ltd. is one of the largest mineral claim holders in the Province of Quebec, with extensive land holdings in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. Falco owns approximately 67,000 hectares of land in the Noranda Mining Camp, which represents 67% of the entire camp and includes 13 former gold and base metal mine sites. Falco's principal asset is the Horne 5 Project located under the former Horne mine that was operated by Noranda from 1927 to 1976 and produced 11.6 million ounces of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper. Osisko Development Corp. is Falco's largest shareholder owning a 17.3% interest in the Corporation.

For further information, please contact:

Luc Lessard

President and Chief Executive Officer

514 261-3336

[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.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws, in particular Falco's ability to complete the BAPE, to obtain receipt of permits and approvals required to develop the Horne 5 Project and the ability of Falco to efficiently develop and operate the Horne 5 Project based on the terms of the Operating License and Indemnity Agreement concluded with Glencore Canada Corporation ("OLIA"). These statements are based on information currently available to the Corporation and the Corporation provides no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. The occurrence of such events or the realization of such statements is subject to a number of risk factors, including, without limitation, the ability of Falco to provide the financial assurance guarantees required by the OLIA and the exercise by Glencore Canada of rights under the OLIA which could affect the development and operation of the Horne 5 Project, together with the other risk factors identified in Falco's Annual Information Form and other continuous disclosure documents available at www.sedarplus.com. Although Falco believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, Falco disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

27 march 2024 at 07:00

News published onand distributed by:
White Gold Corp. Identifies Multiple Prospective IP Chargeability Anomalies on Two Large Multi-Element Porphyry Targets in Close Proximity to the Casino Copper-Gold Porphyry Deposit, Yukon, Canada





TORONTO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- White Gold Corp. (TSX.V: WGO, OTCQX: WHGOF, FRA: 29W) (the "Company") is pleased to provide an exploration update on the Bridget and Isaac porphyry targets located on the Pedlar and Hayes properties, respectively. Exploration work completed during 2023 included Induced Polarization (IP) chargeability and resistivity survey lines and hyperspectral analysis on 2022 prosecting rock samples. All data collected thus far on these large early-stage targets continue to support a porphyry deposit model.



The Pedlar and Hayes properties are situated in the southern part of the Company's 315,000 hectare (3,150 km2) land package in the White Gold District, west-central Yukon (Figure 1). Western Copper and Gold Corporation's Casino copper-gold-molybdenum porphyry deposit (Measured & Indicated Resources of 7.6 Blb copper and 14.5 Moz gold and Inferred Resources of 3.3 Blb copper and 6.6 Moz gold) sits approximately 30 km southwest and 40 km west of the Bridget and Isaac targets respectively. Casino is one of the largest undeveloped copper-gold projects in Canada, and since 2021 has seen strategic investments by major partners including Rio Tinto Canada Inc. and Mitsubishi Materials Corporation. The Pedlar and Hayes properties are also located 40 km and 72 km southeast, respectively, of the Company's flagship White Gold project which contains an estimated 1,152,900 ounces of gold in Indicated Resources and 942,400 ounces of gold in Inferred Resources(1).

Terry Brace, Vice President of Exploration commented: "We are encouraged by results of the 2023 IP test lines at the Bridget and Isaac targets which identified new anomalies and structures that overall correlate well with the soil geochemistry anomalies and current structural interpretations. The new IP looked deeper than any previous geophysical surveys and demonstrates potential at depth beneath these large multi-element soil anomalies. The test results warrant full IP survey coverage over the target areas which will aid in mapping these systems at depth in support of future diamond drill testing."

Shawn Ryan, co-founder, Chief Technical Advisor and Director, commented further: "The Bridget target has an interesting history as it was one of four top prospects that was first discovered back in 1972 when Silver Standard Mines conducted an extensive 14,000 plus regional silt survey looking for another Casino. During the large regional silt survey, Silver Standard also made the Minto Copper discovery and eventually focused all their attention on that target. I staked the Bridget prospect back in 2004, and since then the property has seen extensive soil sampling programs, airborne radiometric surveys and shallow RAB drilling. The soil sampling program revealed a large copper, molybdenum and bismuth soil anomaly. The molybdenum anomaly (2 to 322 ppm) measures 4 km by 1.7 km and coincides with a very discrete bismuth anomaly (2 to 154 ppm) of 3 km by 1.4 km and a copper core anomaly (50 to 711 ppm) measuring 2.8 km by 1.3 km. A deep penetrating dipole-dipole IP survey was undertaken in summer 2023 with one line over the core of the soil anomaly and the results clearly show a textbook porphyry geophysical signature of resistivity lows and chargeability high anomalies sitting below the anomalous soils. It's now recommended to follow up with more IP survey lines to cover this large developing porphyry target. I look forward to first diamond drill holes into this exciting target."

An overview of the Pedlar and Hayes properties, including the Bridget and Isaac targets, was provided previously in a news release dated April 5, 2023 which is available on the Company's website (https://whitegoldcorp.ca/news/) and on SEDAR+. Maps and images accompanying this news release can be found at http://whitegoldcorp.ca/investors/exploration-highlights/.

Highlights

The Bridget and Isaac targets represent large, early-stage, multi-element porphyry targets that have never been diamond drill tested.

Deep penetrating test IP survey lines conducted over existing soil geochemistry anomalies have identified a total of 13 chargeability anomalies, 5 at Bridget and 8 at Isaac.

The Bridget soil anomaly on the Pedlar property measures 3 km NW-SE by 3.5 km NE-SW and is interpreted to represent a copper-molybdenum porphyry target. It is geochemically zoned with a molybdenum-copper-bismuth core and a silver-zinc-lead-tungsten halo.

At Bridget, one 1 st priority and four 2 nd priority chargeability anomalies were identified, with target depths ranging from 40 to 330 m. The chargeability anomalies underly a large molybdenum-copper soil anomaly, and a zone of moderate to strong chargeability to the southwest appears to mark a controlling WNW (290) striking fault which correlates with anomalous lead-zinc-arsenic in soils.

priority and four 2 priority chargeability anomalies were identified, with target depths ranging from 40 to 330 m. The chargeability anomalies underly a large molybdenum-copper soil anomaly, and a zone of moderate to strong chargeability to the southwest appears to mark a controlling WNW (290) striking fault which correlates with anomalous lead-zinc-arsenic in soils. The Isaac soil anomaly on the Hayes property is a recently discovered target which measures 2 km E-W by 1.5 km N-S, and is interpreted to represent a copper-molybdenum porphyry target. It is geochemically zoned with a bismuth-arsenic-copper core and a silver-zinc-lead halo.

At Isaac, four 1 st priority, three 2 nd priority and one 3 rd priority chargeability anomalies were identified, with target depths ranging from 50 to 550 m. The bismuth and copper core of the soil anomaly is underlain by multiple chargeability anomalies (S1, S2, M1 and W1 on Line 1E) which sit above a resistivity low. Anomalous lead, zinc, and silver, which form a halo around the core, are coincident with fault structures on the south side and north side of the survey area which trend NE (065) and NW (290) respectively.

priority, three 2 priority and one 3 priority chargeability anomalies were identified, with target depths ranging from 50 to 550 m. The bismuth and copper core of the soil anomaly is underlain by multiple chargeability anomalies (S1, S2, M1 and W1 on Line 1E) which sit above a resistivity low. Anomalous lead, zinc, and silver, which form a halo around the core, are coincident with fault structures on the south side and north side of the survey area which trend NE (065) and NW (290) respectively. 2022 prospecting rock samples from both the Bridget and Isaac targets show anomalous trace element enrichments, including copper, molybdenum and silver, consistent with proximal porphyry copper-style mineralization.

Hyperspectral analysis results for the prosecting rock samples at both Bridget and Isaac show alteration mineralogy consistent with a porphyry deposit model.

The Company is currently planning its fully funded 2024 exploration program, focusing on its existing significant gold resources, new high grade gold discoveries and other high priority gold and multi-element targets. The Company will arrange a webinar to provide a more detailed overview of the 2023 exploration results and plans for 2024 at that time. Details to be announced in due course.



Regional Setting ? The Dawson Range

The Dawson Range forms an east-southeast trending mountain range which hosts several important mineral deposits and prospects (Figure 2) including the Casino porphyry Copper-Gold deposit in the west. In the southeast near the community of Carmacks, the Minto Mine contains resources of 356 Mlb copper, 189 Koz gold, and 1.7 Moz silver in Indicated Resources and 370 Mlb copper, 207 Koz gold, and 1.9 Moz silver in Inferred Resources(5), and the Carmacks Copper project hosts 652 Mlb copper, 302 Koz gold, 3.8 Moz silver in Measured and Indicated Resources and 38 Mlb copper, 13 Koz gold, and 215 Koz silver in Inferred Resources(6) (Granite Creek Copper Ltd.), both interpreted to represent metamorphosed copper-gold-silver porphyry deposits. Porphyry deposits in the Dawson Range can be divided into 2 major ages, Late Triassic (Minto, Carmacks) and Late Cretaceous (Casino, Cash, Revenue). In addition to porphyry mineralization, epithermal, skarn, and polymetallic to gold-dominant mineralized veins, breccias and fracture zones also occur throughout the Dawson Range(7). In recent years this area has drawn increased attention and investment from both junior and major mining companies due to its high mineral potential.

2023 IP Surveys

In August 2023, Simcoe Geoscience Limited (Simcoe) carried out 7.2 line-km of time domain induced polarization (IP) chargeability and resistivity surveying at the Bridget and Isaac targets using their wireless 2D Alpha IPtm system (see About IP Survey below). At Bridget, a single 3.0 km long IP test line (line 1N) oriented NE-SW was completed using a dipole-dipole configuration. At Isaac, two IP test lines totaling 4.2 km long were oriented perpendicular to each other at NE-SW (line 4N) and NW-SE (line 1E) using a dipole-pole-dipole configuration. Both configurations can detect anomalies up to 600+ m depth.

IP Results

At Bridget, five chargeability anomalies were identified on Line 1N (Figure 3), including one 1st priority anomaly (S1) and four 2nd priority anomalies (M1-M4). Anomaly S1 has a target depth of 130 m and is characterized by strong chargeability and low resistivity. Target depths on the second priority anomalies range from 40 m (M3, M4) to a maximum of 330 m (M1). These are characterized by moderate to high chargeability and low to high resistivity.

The Bridget chargeability anomalies are plotted in relation to soil geochemistry results in Figure 4 (molybdenum, copper, lead, zinc) and Figure 5 (copper). The chargeability anomalies generally correspond with a zone of low resistivity which underlie a large molybdenum-copper soil anomaly. A zone of moderate (M1) to strong (S1) chargeability in the southwest delineates a controlling west-northwest (WNW, 290) striking fault structure, closely correlated with lead, zinc, and arsenic soil anomalies. To the northeast, a similar WNW (295) anomaly in lead, zinc, and arsenic defines the boundary of this chargeability anomaly and coincides with a significant tungsten anomaly, positioned along the northeastern fringe of a molybdenum anomaly. It is worth noting that in 2018 the Company drilled 10 short rotary air blast (RAB) drill holes totalling 548.6 m over the area between chargeability anomalies M2 and S1. However, these RAB holes were testing surface soil anomalies and drilled to a shallow maximum depth of only 70 m, hence the newly IP chargeability anomalies identified are completely untested.

At Isaac, 8 chargeability anomalies were identified on Lines 1E and 4N. Five anomalies occur on Line 1E (Figure 6), including three 1st priority anomalies (S1-S3), one 2nd priority anomaly (M1) and one 3rd priority anomaly (W1). The 1st priority anomalies are characterized by moderate chargeability and low to high resistivity. Target depths of the 1st priority anomalies range from 70 m (S3) to 250 m (S2). An additional three anomalies occur on Line 4N (Figure 7), including one 1st priority anomaly (S1) and two 2nd priority anomalies (M1-M2) (see Figure 7). Target depths of these chargeability anomalies range from 220 ? 550 m.

The Isaac chargeability anomalies on Line 1E, oriented NW-SE, are plotted in relation to soil geochemistry results for select elements (bismuth, copper, lead, silver) in Figure 8. The bismuth anomaly appears to be controlled by faults interpreted from the IP resistivity data. The bismuth and copper core of the soil anomaly is underlain by multiple chargeability anomalies (S1, S2, M1 and W1) which sit above a resistivity low which is interpreted as a fault structure. Lead, zinc, and silver, which form a halo around the core, are coincident with fault structures on the south side and north side of the survey area which trend NE (065) and NW (290) respectively. Isaac is a recently recognized (2021) target and has never been drilled tested.

2023 Hyperspectral Analysis & Results

During 2023, crushed coarse rejects from 2022 prospecting rock samples from the Pedlar and Hayes properties were analyzed with an ASD TerraSpec 4 Hi-Res Mineral Spectrometer. Results were uploaded and processed using IMDEX's aiSIRIStm cloud-based mineral interpretation AI software to produce semi-quantitative, standardized mineral interpretations and analytics (see About Hyperspectral Analysis below).

The Hyperspectral analysis results for the prosecting rock samples show alteration mineralogy consistent with a porphyry deposit model.

A total of 17 prospecting rock samples were collected at the Bridget target and 19 samples at the Isaac target. Samples from both the Bridget and Isaac targets show anomalous trace element enrichments, including copper, molybdenum and silver, consistent with proximal porphyry copper-style mineralization. Hyperspectral data for the Isaac target samples provide evidence for phyllic alteration characterized by muscovite and potassic alteration, with evidence of propylitic alteration found only on the southern edge of the sampled area where significant chlorite is observed. The Bridget samples show no evidence of phyllic alteration, however most samples show both geochemical and hyperspectral evidence for widespread propylitic alteration involving epidote, chlorite and albite, as well as minor potassic alteration.

Next Steps

The Company is encouraged by the success of the IP test lines in detecting chargeability and resistivity anomalies beneath the soil geochemistry anomalies at the Bridget and Isaac targets at depths from 40m to 550m below surface. These results warrant full IP survey coverage over the target areas which will aid in identifying targets at depth in support of future diamond drill testing.

About the Bridget Target

The Bridget target area is located on the Pedlar property and was first explored by Silver Standard Mines Ltd. ("Silver Standard") and Asarco Exploration Company of Canada Ltd. ("Asarco") in the early 1970's following the discovery of the Casino Copper-Gold-Molybdenum porphyry deposit. A series of regional silt samples, soil sampling, and geophysical surveys by Silver Standard in 1971 and 1972 led to the discovery of a significant molybdenum-copper geochemical anomaly, now known as the Bridget target. Historical exploration work between 2004 and 2016 included soil sampling, prospecting, geological mapping, and geophysical surveys. In 2016 the Company acquired ownership of the property and has continued to expand the large multi-element (molybdenum, copper, bismuth, tungsten, lead, silver) soil geochemical anomaly that currently measures 3 km NW-SE by 4.3 km NE-SW. In 2018, a maiden rotary air blast (RAB) drilling program comprising 10 holes totalling 548.6 m was completed; however, the RAB holes were short testing to a maximum vertical depth of only 70 m, well short of potential porphyry mineralization at depth beneath the anomalous soils. Porphyry targets characterized by IP chargeability high anomalies remain completely untested.

About the Isaac Target

The Isaac target is located on the Hayes property and was first recognized by the Company as a prospective porphyry target in 2021 through soil sampling. Gridded soil sampling (50 m spaced samples on 100 m spaced survey lines) was conducted in an area located approximately 5 km south of the Yukon River where a 2017 reconnaissance soil survey identified several isolated anomalous ridge and spur soil samples. The 2021 sampling identified a new geochemically zoned multi-element soil anomaly named the Isaac target, which measures approximately 2 km east-west by 1.5 km north-south. The anomaly has a central core measuring from 750 m to 1,000 m in diameter and enriched in bismuth and arsenic, which is surrounded by a halo of anomalous silver, lead and zinc that is greater than 400 m wide. Anomalous copper occurs in the southern portion of the core, and a relatively small area of anomalous molybdenum occurs near the core's northern margin. Geologically the soil anomaly is associated with a plug of Late Cretaceous Prospector Mountain suite, which is known to be prospective for porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum and epithermal style mineralization. The geochemical zonation and elemental distributions indicate that the anomaly may represent the surface expression of a copper-molybdenum porphyry core surrounded by distal or epithermal style silver-lead-zinc mineralization. Follow-up geological mapping and prospecting in 2022 at the Isaac target area returned anomalous copper values from the core area of the soil anomaly, with three grab samples returning from 730.6 ? 1269.2 ppm Copper.

About Hyperspectral Analysis

Crushed coarse rejects from 2022 prospecting rock samples were analyzed with an ASD TerraSpec 4 Hi-Res Mineral Spectrometer by Bureau Veritas Commodities Canada Ltd. at their preparation laboratory in Whitehorse, Yukon. Results were uploaded and processed using IMDEX's aiSIRIStm cloud-based mineral interpretation AI software to produce semi-quantitative, standardized mineral interpretations and analytics. TerraSpec and aiSIRIS data were reviewed and interpreted by Dr. Dennis Arne, a principal consulting geochemist with Telemark Geosciences Pty Ltd, a geological consulting services company based in Victoria, Australia.

About IP Survey

The 2023 IP surveys were completed by Simcoe Geoscience Limited (Simcoe) using their wireless time domain 2D Alpha IPtm system (https://www.simcoegeoscience.com/wireless-alpha-ip). Survey data was recorded in a Reverse & Forward array configuration with readings taken every 100 m along the line. A dipole-dipole configuration was used at the Bridget target, and a dipole-pole-dipole configuration at the Isaac target. Once the IP data satisfied the QA/QC process, the entire survey line file was exported into UBC format to run the model 2D inversions. Results were reviewed, interpreted and chargeability anomalies ranked by Simcoe's in-house geophysicist.

About White Gold Corp.

The Company owns a portfolio of 15,876 quartz claims across 26 properties covering approximately 315,000 hectares (3,150 km2) representing over 40% of the Yukon's emerging White Gold District. The Company's flagship White Gold project hosts four near-surface gold deposits which collectively contain an estimated 1,152,900 ounces of gold in Indicated Resources and 942,400 ounces of gold in Inferred Resources(1). Regional exploration work has also produced several other new discoveries and prospective targets on the Company's claim packages which border sizable gold discoveries including the Coffee project owned by Newmont Corporation with Measured and Indicated Resources of 2.1 Moz at 1.28 g/t gold and Inferred Resources of 0.2 Moz at 1.0 g/t gold(2), and Western Copper and Gold Corporation's Casino project which has Measured and Indicated Resources of 7.6 Blb copper and 14.5 Moz gold and Inferred Resources of 3.3 Blb copper and 6.6 Moz gold(3). For more information visit www.whitegoldcorp.ca.

(1) See White Gold Corp. technical report titled "2023 Technical Report for the White Gold Project, Dawson Range, Yukon, Canada ", Effective Date April 15, 2023, Report Date May 30, 2023, NI 43-101 Compliant Technical Report prepared by Dr. Gilles Arseneau, P.Geo., available on SEDAR+.

(2) See Newmont Corporation Form 10-K: Annual report for the year ending December 31, 2023, in the Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Resources section, dated February 29, 2024, available on EDGAR. Reserves and resources disclosed in this Form 10-K have been prepared in accordance with the Regulation S-K 1300, and do not indicate NI43-101 compliance.

(3) See Western Copper and Gold Corporation technical report titled "Casino project, Form 43-101F1 Technical Report Feasibility Study, Yukon Canada", Effective Date June 13, 2022, Issue Date August 8, 2022, NI 43-101 Compliant Technical Report prepared by Daniel Roth, PE, P.Eng., Mike Hester, F Aus IMM, John M. Marek, P.E., Laurie M. Tahija, MMSA-QP, Carl Schulze, P.Geo., Daniel Friedman, P.Eng., Scott Weston, P.Geo., available on SEDAR+.

(5) See Minto Metals Corp. technical report titled "Form 43-101F1 Preliminary Economic Assessment Technical Report, Minto, Yukon Canada", Effective Date March 31, 2021, Report Date May 7, 2021, prepared by Dino Pilotto, P.Eng., Tysen Hantelmann, P. Eng., Mike Levy, P.E., Sue Bird, P. Eng., Carl Schulze, P. Geo., Tad Crowie, P. Eng., Cheibany Elemine, Ph. D., P. Geo., Sam Amiralaei, P. Eng., John Kurylo, P. Eng., available on SEDAR.

(6) See Granite Creek Copper Ltd. technical report titled "Updated Mineral Resource Estimates for the Carmacks Cu-Au-Ag Project Near Carmacks, Yukon, Canada", Effective Date February 25, 2022, Report Date April 29, 2022, prepared by Allan Armitage, Ph. D., P. Geo., available on SEDAR.

(7) Allan, M.M., Mortensen, J.K., Hart, C.J.R., Bailey, L.A., Sanchez, M.G., Ciolkiewicz, W., McKenzie, G.G. and Creaser, R.A., 2013, Magmatic and Metallogenic Framework of West-Central Yukon and Eastern Alaska: Society of Economic Geologists, Special Publication 17, pp. 111-168.

Qualified Person

Terry Brace, P.Geo. and Vice President of Exploration for the Company is a "qualified person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101 ? Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects and has reviewed and approved the content of this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information

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", "proposed", "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 relate, among other things, the Company's objectives, goals and exploration activities conducted and proposed to be conducted at the Company's properties; future growth potential of the Company, including whether any proposed exploration programs at any of the Company's properties will be successful; exploration results; and future exploration plans and costs and financing availability.

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:

The expected benefits to the Company relating to the exploration conducted and proposed to be conducted at the White Gold properties; the receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals for the Offering; failure to identify any additional mineral resources or significant mineralization; the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, including to fund any exploration programs on the Company's properties; business integration risks; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, silver, base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar to United States dollar exchange rate); change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining and mineral exploration; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); the unlikelihood that properties that are explored are ultimately developed into producing mines; geological factors; actual results of current and future exploration; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated; soil sampling results being preliminary in nature and are not conclusive evidence of the likelihood of a mineral deposit; title to properties; ongoing uncertainties relating to the COVID-19 pandemic; and those factors described under the heading "Risks Factors" in the Company's annual information form dated July 29, 2020 available on SEDAR+. 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. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information, or the material factors or assumptions used to develop such forward-looking information, will prove to be accurate. The Company does not undertake to release publicly any revisions for updating any voluntary forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable securities law.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

For Further Information, Please Contact:

Contact Information:

David D'Onofrio

Chief Executive Officer

White Gold Corp.

(647) 930-1880

[email protected]

Request Meeting: https://calendly.com/meet-with-wgo/15min

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3565ebca-7da2-4641-903a-09b492f865d7

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27 march 2024 at 07:00

News published onand distributed by:
Vinitaly to honor the legacy and impact of Ezio Rivella with a dedicated masterclass





In the realm of Italian wine, Ezio Rivella stands as a towering figure, leaving an indelible mark on the modern landscape of Italian winemaking during his tenure as the head winemaker of Castello Banfi. Following his passing in January 2024 and in tribute to his enduring legacy and profound contributions to the sector, Vinitaly is proud to announce a special Masterclass in his honor, slated for Tuesday, April 16th.

VERONA, Italy, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Ezio Rivella's forward-thinking approach to winemaking, combined with his profound grasp of traditional methods, played a pivotal role in solidifying Italy's position as a premier producer of fine wines. Yet, beyond his technical expertise, Rivella was cherished for his generosity, mentorship, and dedication to supporting fellow industry professionals. The need to recognise his enduring legacy and commemorate the impact he had on future generations of winemakers are the twin driving forces behind the development of this Masterclass.

The need to recognise his enduring legacy and commemorate the impact he had on future generations of winemakers are the twin driving forces behind the development of this Masterclass.

A Life dedicated to Italian wine

Originally from Asti, Cavaliere del Lavoro (Knight of Labour) Ezio Rivella stood as one of Italy's foremost oenologists and wine industry leaders, pioneering the global promotion of Italian wine. In the late 1970s, during his tenure at Castello Banfi, he recognised the untapped potential of Brunello di Montalcino, propelling it to worldwide acclaim and positioning it as a flagship of Italian wine production. His innovative winemaking techniques and advocacy for indigenous Italian grape varieties, notably Sangiovese, were instrumental in expressing the unique terroir of diverse regions.

Among his notable contributions to the world of wine was his stewardship of the Bel Sit winery in Castagnole Lanze, Piedmont, originally established in 1870 by the Rivella family. Throughout his illustrious career, Rivella assumed key leadership roles in the industry, serving as president of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino, leading the Unione Italiana Vini, president of Assoenologi, and chairing the National Wine Committee of the Ministry of Agriculture. His remarkable contribution was acknowledged through numerous prestigious honors, including his appointment as Cavaliere del Lavoro and decoration with the Order of Merit for Labour by the President of the Italian Republic.

The Masterclass: "Honoring Ezio Rivella: A Legacy of Italian Winemaking Evolution"

The tasting is a heartfelt tribute to Mr Rivella, featuring insights from some of those who knew him best. During the masterclass, Daniele Cernilli, Editor at Doctor Wine, will be joined by speakers Riccardo Cotarella, President of Assoenologi; Enrico Viglierchio, President of Banfi Societa Agricola Srl; Rodolfo Maralli, Presidente Banfi Srl; and Gianpiero Scavino winemaker and owner of Bel Sit winery, alongside other collaborators and friends, and will reflect on the enduring legacy of Mr Rivella's work through engaging stories and anecdotes.

Participants will also have the opportunity to taste three Brunello di Montalcino wines from Castello Banfi and three Barbera d'Asti from the Bel Sit winery, thus retracing key milestones in Ezio Rivella's illustrious career.

The wine list of the Masterclass includes:

Bel Sit, Barbera d'Asti Docg Superiore "Sichivej" 2015

Bel Sit, Barbera d'Asti Docg Superiore "Sichivej" 2003

Bel Sit, Barbera d'Asti Docg Superiore "Sichivej" 2001

Castello Banfi, Toscana Igt "Summus" 1997

Castello Banfi, Brunello di Montalcino Docg Riserva "Poggio all'Oro" 1990

Castello Banfi, Brunello di Montalcino Docg 1985

Full event details, including registration, are available at: https://www.vinitaly.com/calendario-eventi/vinitaly/vinitaly-2024/in-onore-dell-eredita-di-ezio-rivella-e-del-suo-ruolo-fondamentale-per-l-enologia-italiana/

About Vinitaly: Vinitaly, the renowned wine event, is scheduled to take place from April 14th to the 17th 2024. Building on the success of Vinitaly 2023, which saw an impressive turnout of 93,000 visitors, including 29,600 top international buyers from 143 different countries, this year promises to be equally impactful. Since its inception in 1998, Vinitaly has been a global ambassador for Italian wine, traversing borders and reaching wine enthusiasts worldwide through its strategic arm abroad, Vinitaly International. While Vinitaly originated in Italy, in the historic city of Verona, its vision extends far beyond national borders. For over 55 years, Vinitaly has served as a nexus for the global wine supply chain, facilitating connections and fostering collaboration among producers, buyers, and stakeholders. The event spans four days dedicated to nurturing relationships, sharing experiences, and honing skills within the wine industry. Vinitaly and the City invites wine lovers to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Verona, one of the world's foremost wine capitals. This ancient city, steeped in history and culture, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable wine experience, where tradition meets innovation and passion permeates every sip.

Media Contact

Michela Aru, Just Do The Work, 0458101447, [email protected], https://www.vinitaly.com/en/

SOURCE Vinitaly

27 march 2024 at 07:30

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First Resource Bank Announces Lending Department Leadership Changes





EXTON, Pa., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- First Resource Bancorp, Inc. (OTCQX: FRSB), the holding company for First Resource Bank, announced the promotion of Lee Herzer to Executive Vice President & Chief Lending Officer, effective April 1, 2024. Herzer brings 20 years of extensive experience in the banking industry and has been an integral part of the First Resource Bank team since 2017.

In his new role, Herzer will oversee the Bank's lending function, leading strategic initiatives to drive growth and enhance customer relationships. His proven leadership and deep understanding of the lending landscape will be instrumental in advancing the Bank's mission of providing exceptional financial solutions to its customers.

"We are thrilled to appoint Lee Herzer as our new Chief Lending Officer," said Lauren Ranalli, President of First Resource Bank. "Lee's dedication, expertise, and passion for serving our community align perfectly with our values and vision for the future. We have the utmost confidence in his ability to drive our lending business forward and deliver outstanding results."

Additionally, as part of this transition, the current Executive Vice President & Chief Lending Officer, Lisa Donnon, will assume the role of Chief Credit Officer. Donnon will bring her extensive knowledge and experience in lending and credit management to this critical position, ensuring the bank maintains strong credit quality and risk management practices. Lisa has 33 years of banking experience, including 18 years in the lending department of First Resource Bank.

Furthermore, after an illustrious career spanning 46 years in the banking industry, Ken Kramer, the Bank's current Chief Credit Officer, will retire this September. Despite his retirement, Ken will continue to contribute to the Bank's success by staying on board part-time in an advisory capacity.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ken for his remarkable leadership and contributions to First Resource Bank over the years," added Ranalli. "Ken's dedication and expertise have been invaluable to our organization, and we are pleased that he will continue to be part of our team even in his retirement. I am excited to see Lisa move over to the credit side of the house to leverage her expertise in a new way here at First Resource Bank. These moves will position the Bank for continued growth and success in serving its customers and communities."

About First Resource Bancorp, Inc.

First Resource Bancorp, Inc. is the holding company of First Resource Bank. First Resource Bank is a locally owned and operated Pennsylvania state-chartered bank with three full-service branches, serving the banking needs of businesses, professionals and individuals in the Delaware Valley. The Bank offers a full range of deposit and credit services with a high level of personalized service. First Resource Bank also offers a broad range of traditional financial services and products, competitively priced and delivered in a responsive manner to small businesses, professionals and residents in the local market. For additional information visit our website at www.firstresourcebank.com. Member FDIC.

This press release contains statements that are not historical facts and may pertain to future operating results or events or management's expectations regarding those results or events. These are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts. When used in this press release, the words "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", "seeks", "estimates", or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs, such as "will", "would", "should", "could", or "may" are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are either beyond our control or not reasonably capable of predicting at this time. In addition, these forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions with respect to future business strategies and decisions that are subject to change. Actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in these forward-looking statements. Readers of this press release are accordingly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. First Resource Bank disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any of the forward-looking statements herein, whether in response to new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE First Resource Bank

27 march 2024 at 08:00

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Connectbase Welcomes Bit? into Its Ecosystem, Expanding Access to Baltic Connectivity Solutions





BOSTON, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Connectbase, the leading global marketplace for buying and selling connectivity, is proud to announce the addition of Bit? to its ecosystem. This strategic partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing connectivity options within the Baltic region, providing an invaluable link between local and international telecom players.

Founded in 1995, Bit? has solidified its position as the foremost provider of high-quality last-mile services in the Baltics. As a leading player in the region's telecommunications sector and a key component of a larger telco and media group, Bite's integration into the Connectbase ecosystem represents a pivotal development for the platform and its users.

Historically, the niche market in the Baltics necessitated that companies like Bit? operate through aggregators and resellers to connect with significant European players. This partnership with Connectbase opens new doors for Bit?, facilitating direct connections with large buyers in the Baltics and across the globe, including those based in the United States.

The inclusion of Bit? in the Connectbase platform offers substantial benefits to buyers, especially those in the US, by providing direct access to a leading local operator in the Baltic region. This accessibility simplifies the purchasing process through the platform, ensuring superior service, competitive pricing, and eliminating the need for intermediaries.

The Baltic market is witnessing rapid growth, with an increasing presence of US-based companies establishing branches and seeking telecommunications services in the region. By connecting directly with Bit? through Connectbase, these companies can significantly reduce procurement times, save on costs, and achieve a higher quality of service.

"We are excited to welcome Bit? into the Connectbase ecosystem," said Edison Smith, VP of EMEA at Connectbase. "This partnership not only adds a Baltic operator to our ecosystem but also aligns with our mission to simplify the buying and selling of telecom services globally. We look forward to the opportunities this will bring to both Bit? and our buyer customers, facilitating seamless connectivity solutions."

For additional information about Connectbase and its services, please visit www.connectbase.com.

About Connectbase

Connectbase is the global marketplace for buying and selling connectivity. Connectbase is the leading platform for the industry, designed to streamline interactions between buyers and sellers across the globe. With a focus on simplifying connectivity and enhancing the procurement process, Connectbase offers a dynamic and comprehensive ecosystem for all connectivity stakeholders. The Connected World platform serves over 300 providers globally, profiling 2.7 billion locations across more than 150 countries. Visit Connectbase at connectbase.com and follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/connectbase-us/.

About Bit?

Bit? is a digital services company providing mobile communication, data transmission, Internet and smart TV services in Lithuania. Bit? is part of Bit? Group, the leading telecommunications and media group in the Baltics.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Wona Park Smith

[email protected]

(508) 395-1244

SOURCE Connectbase

27 march 2024 at 08:38

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Recently, the "Implementation Opinions of the CPC Anhui Provincial Committee and the Anhui Provincial People's Government on Learning and Applying the Experience of the 'Thousand Villages Demonstration, Ten Thousand Villages Renovation' Project to Effectively Promote the Comprehensive Revitalization of Rural Areas" was released, which emphasizes promoting the integrated development of agriculture, culture and tourism, and prosperous development of rural culture. The document specifies that a number of "Anhui-brand" boutique routes will be launched, and 100 boutique theme villages, 100 characteristic gourmet villages, and 100 tourism scenic routes will be built. It also outlines a three-year action plan for the high-quality development of rural homestays, aiming to foster 1000 boutique homestays. Furthermore, it emphasizes to combine outstanding traditional Chinese culture and arts and crafts with high-quality agricultural products to introduce a series of rural tourism cultural and creative products. The document proposes to deeply explore the unique cultural heritage of Huaihe River, Yangtze River, Huizhou culture and other characteristic cultures, integrating elements of agricultural civilization with modern civilization. It suggests formulating special plans for the protection and utilization of traditional villages in the province, promoting the legislation of traditional village protection, implementing the project of "Thousand Villages, Ten Thousands Houses" protection and utilization project, and carrying out concentrated and contiguous protection and utilization. Additionally, it calls for the implementation of plans for revitalizing traditional crafts, hosting exhibitions of traditional skills of China's intangible cultural heritage, and strengthening the protection and utilization of agricultural cultural heritage such as the planting system of white ginger in Tongling. Lastly, it calls for the organization of the celebration activities of Chinese Farmers' Harvest Festival, Chinese farmers' Singing Contest and so on.

Source: anhuinews.com
Accenture Federal Services Partners with Microsoft to Launch Cloud Modernization and Migration Factory on Azure





Accenture Federal Services is partnering with Microsoft to launch a first-of-its-kind, end-to-end, Cloud Modernization and Migration Factory on Microsoft Azure Government to meet the stringent security standards required for those operating across the national security space, including the Special Access Program community. The one-stop service will support federal agencies and ecosystem partners wherever they currently reside.

"For federal agencies, and our Defense Industrial Base and aerospace clients, connecting to the cloud and hardening applications are the most challenging part of any cloud journey," said Accenture Federal Services CEO, John Goodman. "Accenture Federal Services is excited to partner with Microsoft in launching the Cloud Modernization and Migration Factory on Azure to help our clients meet their mission objectives through highly capable, protected, monitored, and resilient connected services."

Featuring a secure "connection-in-a-box", the Cloud Modernization and Migration Factory on Azure will streamline the onboarding of remote federal sites to "air gapped" Azure Government Secret and Top Secret classified clouds to enable the highest level of security and protection for the nation's most sensitive data. This solution integrates Microsoft's secure networking principles which are critical for national security users, including those within the Special Access Program community.

Microsoft Azure Government Secret and Top Secret classified clouds provide national security leaders with rapid access to industry leading capabilities, including AI, to glean valuable insights from data, deliver greater agility, and enable unified cybersecurity capabilities to protect the nation's most critical data. Federal leaders and Defense Industrial Base customers will be able to access new and emerging capabilities, such as advanced generative AI models and high-speed 5G connectivity.

"We're thrilled to have Accenture Federal Services serve as a key federal systems integrator partner for Microsoft's classified clouds. When delivering solutions in government air-gapped clouds, deep cybersecurity expertise, a strong networking and cloud engineering ethos, and a relentless focus on mission success are critical," said Jason Zander, Microsoft Executive Vice President of Strategic Missions and Technologies. "Microsoft's world-class infrastructure, combined with Accenture Federal Services' deep expertise in designing and operating secure clouds, will help agencies accelerate the migration of classified workloads to the cloud."

The Cloud Modernization and Migration Factory on Azure delivers fully accreditable security baselines for any level of classification, from Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI). Staffed by cleared cloud engineers, architects, and data scientists, all steeped in DevSecOps, the Cloud Modernization and Migration Factory features an operationalized, SECRET factory floor, purpose-fit for securely migrating on premise workloads into the cloud in compliance with federal guidelines. Accenture Federal Services and Microsoft will also jointly build and use migration tools harnessing the power of Generative AI to accelerate modernization.

About Accenture Federal Services

Accenture Federal Services is a leading US federal services company and subsidiary of Accenture LLP. We empower the federal government to solve challenges, achieve greater outcomes, and build a digital core that is agile, smart, and secure. Our 14,000 people are united in a shared purpose to advance our clients' mission-critical priorities that make the nation stronger and safer, and life better for people. We draw out the best of Accenture's global network in nearly every industry, bringing proven commercial innovation to solutions built with advanced R&D, emerging technologies, and human-centered design at speed and scale. Together, we help clients create lasting value for their workforce, customers, and partners and make a difference for the country and our communities. See how we make change that matters at accenturefederal.com.

About Accenture

Accenture is a leading global professional services company that helps the world's leading businesses, governments and other organizations build their digital core, optimize their operations, accelerate revenue growth and enhance citizen services?creating tangible value at speed and scale. We are a talent- and innovation-led company with approximately 742,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Technology is at the core of change today, and we are one of the world's leaders in helping drive that change, with strong ecosystem relationships. We combine our strength in technology and leadership in cloud, data and AI with unmatched industry experience, functional expertise and global delivery capability. We are uniquely able to deliver tangible outcomes because of our broad range of services, solutions and assets across Strategy & Consulting, Technology, Operations, Industry X and Song. These capabilities, together with our culture of shared success and commitment to creating 360 value, enable us to help our clients reinvent and build trusted, lasting relationships. We measure our success by the 360 value we create for our clients, each other, our shareholders, partners and communities. Visit us at www.accenture.com.

27 march 2024 at 09:05

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Amshore Unveils New Solar and Battery Storage Project in Texas





Amshore Renewable Energy today announced a new Texas solar and battery project available to businesses and investors looking to acquire for their renewable energy portfolios.

For the new Route 66 Solar + Battery Project, Amshore secured site control of approximately 1,500 usable acres, providing ample space for development while minimizing environmental impact. The community surrounding the project site is highly motivated and ready to collaborate on renewable energy initiatives.

The project offers the potential for dual interconnection in ERCOT and/or SPP markets. ATC study results show a total capacity ranging from 150 to 200 megawatts on each line. The solar resource potential of the region averages 5.25-5.50 kWh/m2/day. Studies and area knowledge show the site to have no species of concern or floodplain issues.

"Amshore Renewable Energy's Route 66 project in Texas is a testament to our unwavering commitment to find, evaluate and create projects that meet the growing demand for clean energy and contribute to reducing CO 2 emissions," said Amshore Renewable Energy Vice President of Development Tylan Shelton. "We've identified the site, analyzed the studies and secured the land, and Route 66 is primed to become the next great solar and battery project."

The Route 66 Solar + Battery Project is available to utility companies and independent power producers looking to expand their renewable energy footprint throughout North America. For more information about the project, visit https://go.amshore.com/route66.

About Amshore Renewable Energy

Amshore Renewable Energy develops sustainable energy solutions for utility companies and independent power producers looking to expand their renewable energy capacity throughout North America. Amshore has originated and developed solar and wind energy facilities generating 2.9 gigawatts of power covering over a half a million acres. Established in 2002, Amshore is based in Texas. For more information about Amshore, visit www.amshore.com.

27 march 2024 at 10:05

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Pinemelon Plants Roots in Boulder: Fresh, Local Groceries from Farmers Market to Your Doorstep





Pinemelon, a trailblazing online grocery platform based in Denver, Colorado, is thrilled to announce its expansion into the Boulder market. Known for its commitment to strengthen local food systems and deliver quality groceries directly to your doorstep from local farmers, ranchers and producers, Pinemelon is pioneering a revolutionized shopping experience.

"We are genuinely excited to deepen our roots in Colorado to serve the Boulder community," said Alexey Lee, Chief Executive Officer at Pinemelon. "Pinemelon is not just an online grocery platform, it's a movement towards a healthier, tastier, and more sustainable way of living. By entering Boulder, we're not just expanding our footprint, we're serving a community whose values align closely with ours for high-quality, sustainable and locally sourced products."

First launched in Denver, Pinemelon is on a mission to support local farmers and communities. It offers an extensive inventory of over 6,000 products made with organic ingredients ready for delivery within 2 hours, setting a new standard for convenience and modern living. Pinemelon's distinct range features a plethora of local makers including MASA Seed Foundation, a non-profit farm growing climate-resilient seeds that can save the future of farming, and Grama Grass, a first-generation rancher growing a grass-fed and finished beef business in Boulder county, alongside other farmers. The exciting lineup of local makers is just a start as Pinemelon continues building a platform and fair marketplace, ensuring that those that meet certain standards can begin selling their products to the community. Committed to delivering the freshest and ripest, top-quality products directly from farms to customers at an accessible price point, Pinemelon aims to strengthen the food ecosystem.

Plus, in an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, Pinemelon's eco-friendly approach utilizes recyclable paper bags and a unique order-grouping model that allows them to create delivery routes that are ultimately more efficient and sustainable for customers ? just like carpooling to the grocery store. Pinemelon also uses biodegradable plastic and is intentionally working to bring the sustainability of their packaging to the next level, giving consumers another reason to feel good about doing business with a community partner that prioritizes positive environmental impact. To further benefit the community and food ecosystem, Pinemelon has also donated over 40,000 pounds of food in 2023 to local organizations.

"Pinemelon plays a vital role in helping to bridge the gap between small-scale local food producers and a broader, urban audience, something that historically, has always been a challenge or even an impossibility for us as producers," said Julia Wolfe, General Manager at Grama Grass. "Their innovative model directly promotes the viability of small-scale producers by giving us the platform to connect with and serve other consumer markets without the prohibitive barriers of time, distance, and cost while providing access to ethically and locally produced food for all."

Shoppers can embrace the future of grocery shopping with free 2-hour delivery on orders over $35 and membership benefits with increased discounts and prioritized delivery. To experience the Pinemelon difference, simply download the Pinemelon app or visit https://pinemelon.com. Your journey begins at Pinemelon, where modern, eco-conscious grocery shopping meets your fingertips!

About Pinemelon:

Pinemelon is a trailblazing online grocery platform headquartered in Denver, Colorado, on a mission to redefine grocery shopping. Now available in both Denver and Boulder with more than 6,000 products available for delivery, Pinemelon partners with Colorado farmers, ranchers, and producers to bring the freshest and highest-quality products directly to doorsteps within hours. Pinemelon continues to see positive growth since debuting in the U.S. in 2022, generating more than 250 new local vendor and farmer partnerships since its launch. Pinemelon's team is a perfect match of seasoned entrepreneurs and professionals with 60+ years of combined experience in online retail and grocery. For more information or to start shopping, visit https://pinemelon.com.

27 march 2024 at 11:05

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Rebellion Defense Software Products and Services Now Available via GSA Multiple Award Schedule





Rebellion Defense, a leading U.S. defense software and services company, proudly announces it was awarded a Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contract by the General Services Administration (GSA) in an unprecedented 41 days, marking a significant milestone in the company's journey.

Rebellion Defense underwent rigorous vetting, from technical assessments to past performance validation, culminating in a remarkable achievement for a four-year-old start-up. "Exceptional" performance reviews and close collaboration with the government contributed to the rapid approval, which typically takes three to six months.

"As a defense-first company, we prioritize hiring exceptional individuals with deep federal expertise," said Ben FitzGerald, Chief Executive Officer at Rebellion Defense. "Our team has the know-how to overcome acquisition challenges and operate with urgency. In a world where our adversaries aren't constrained by red tape, we're moving fast to equip service members with the best tech today."

Rebellion's GSA MAS contract empowers government organizations to turn the administration's recent executive order on artificial intelligence into actionable outcomes by facilitating the acquisition of AI products and services "faster, more cheaply, and more effectively through more rapid and efficient contracting."

"The GSA is working tirelessly to help agencies get fast and efficient access to emerging technologies from innovative small businesses," said Karen D. Dacres, Chief Legal Officer at Rebellion Defense. "Their dedication and focus exemplify our shared commitment to excellence and to strengthening our nation's competitive edge swiftly and efficiently."

Rebellion's GSA Schedule offers customers multiple benefits:

This contract covers all Rebellion software products, including Iris and Nova, as well as Mission Engineering services. As we continue to provide new offerings, we can update our GSA schedule without starting the contract process from scratch.

including Iris and Nova, as well as Mission Engineering services. As we continue to provide new offerings, we can update our GSA schedule without starting the contract process from scratch. This contract has been competitively awarded to Rebellion Defense, so government organizations ? federal, state, local, and tribal governments ? can procure our products and services faster without undergoing another competitive process.

to Rebellion Defense, so government organizations ? federal, state, local, and tribal governments ? can procure our products and services faster without undergoing another competitive process. This contract vehicle accepts any "color of money," giving our customers maximum funding flexibility.

giving our customers maximum funding flexibility. Organizations that leverage this pathway can save money because GSA has pre-negotiated pricing and discounts.

because GSA has pre-negotiated pricing and discounts. Organizations can reduce administrative and labor costs by leveraging Rebellion Defense's GSA MAS contract, addressing mission requirements efficiently.

This announcement follows a string of successes at Rebellion Defense, such as obtaining a DISA Impact Level 5 Provisional Authorization, providing services to U.S. Navy Project Overmatch, and appointing Ben FitzGerald as CEO. Rebellion's products and services are used by various organizations, including the U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Special Operations Command, Chief Digital Artificial Intelligence Office, and National Nuclear Security Administration.

About Rebellion Defense

Rebellion Defense is a technology company developing advanced software to ensure mission-critical organizations stay ahead of emerging threats. Rebellion Defense brings together engineers who built commercial software products that transformed our way of life and defense experts who deeply understand the mission and stakes of national security. For more information, visit rebelliondefense.com and follow Rebellion Defense on LinkedIn and X.

27 march 2024 at 12:05

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rsted Proposes New Connecticut Offshore Wind Farm to Power State's Clean Energy Future, Drive Job Creation





Connecticut's offshore wind leader rsted today announced submission of its proposed project, Starboard Wind, to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Utilizing the New London State Pier for staging and assembly, Starboard Wind would power more than 600,000 homes in the state and advance Connecticut toward its clean energy goals.

rsted's proposed 1,184-megawatt (MW) Starboard Wind project would deliver clean and reliable offshore wind power to Connecticut at stable and predictable pricing for decades. The project would bring nearly $420 million of direct investment and expenditure to Connecticut, driving in-state and regional job creation while bolstering State Pier's key role in the U.S. offshore wind supply chain.

"Connecticut is a critical hub in the U.S. offshore wind market thanks to its early investments and foresight, and Starboard Wind will further strengthen the state's leadership in this important new American energy industry," said David Hardy, rsted Group EVP and CEO Americas. "In addition to fostering additional economic development, job creation, and innovative partnerships with local universities and organizations, we want to ?make it here' in Connecticut by providing opportunities for local businesses and workers to participate in the emerging domestic offshore wind supply chain. We look forward to working with our local partners to deliver a project that would be strategic for both the state and the New England region."

Starboard Wind would result in more than 800 full-time equivalent positions, including many new jobs at New London's State Pier. Starboard Wind has a cost-benefit ratio of over 1.7:1, meaning that for every dollar invested in the project, Connecticut will receive over $1.70 of benefits in jobs and investments, improved energy-system reliability, and environmental benefits.

Starboard Wind would fund a range of community investments and partnerships in Connecticut, including more than $50 million to support the state's workforce and supplier diversity, inclusive workforce training, innovation, higher education and research, environmental justice, and biodiversity.

rsted and Eversource are currently building Revolution Wind, Connecticut's first offshore wind farm, marshaling the project out of State Pier. Starboard Wind would build on Revolution Wind's investments and accomplishments and advance the state toward its goal of 100 percent clean energy by 2040.

"New London is the Northeast's offshore wind hub, and rsted is a large part of the reason why," said New London Mayor Michael Passero. "rsted has not only been instrumental in transforming the State Pier into a state-of-the-art offshore wind staging location, but also invested in our workforce and developed partnerships in our communities. I'm proud to be their neighbor."

"rsted has been a true friend to Connecticut's hardworking union construction workers," said Keith Brothers, President of the Connecticut State Building Trades Council. "From their use of union labor at the New London State Pier to supporting the creation of training programs and certifications for work in the offshore wind sector at our Building Trades Training Institute, rsted is a prime example of a responsible, high-road employer. I urge DEEP to keep this in mind as they evaluate the proposals they receive."

"In addition to helping our state achieve its clean energy goals through this proposal, rsted is also pledging to support our critical work providing energy assistance and community services for low-income households," said Joshua Kelly, CEO of the Thames Valley Council for Community Action. "This improves the quality of life for those who need it most?it's both exceptional and moving to have a company like rsted express such care for individuals and community."

"rsted's dedication to education has been impressive," said Annemarie Seifert, Campus Dean and Chief Administrative Officer at University of Connecticut Avery Point. "From supporting a multi-year fisheries research program to ongoing opportunities for our students, and even a community lecture series, rsted has been a wonderful partner. We couldn't be happier that they hope to provide additional clean energy for our state and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts for a sustainable future."

"SCSU is proud to partner with Orsted, and we're thrilled that they have decided to submit this proposal," said Suzanne Huminski, Associate Director of Sustainability at Southern Connecticut State University. "By supporting critical research in marine biodiversity, ecological resilience, and offshore wind workforce development, rsted has fostered invaluable opportunities for SCSU's highly diverse student body to accelerate the renewable energy transformation already underway in Connecticut. We are certain the state will find immense value in continuing their partnership with rsted as well."

Onshore construction is underway for the 704 MW Revolution Wind project, with offshore construction to begin in the coming months. Revolution Wind will deliver 304 MW of clean, affordable offshore wind power to Connecticut and another 400 MW to Rhode Island, powering more than 350,000 New England homes. The project is expected to be in operation in 2025.

As part of Revolution Wind, rsted and its partners have already:

Invested more than $100 million in infrastructure improvements to redevelop the New London State Pier, turning the pier into a regional offshore wind turbine staging and assembly hub and creating more than 400 local union jobs.

Created more than 50 local union jobs for turbine staging and assembly at the State Pier for South Fork Wind. Additional jobs will be necessary as Revolution Wind progresses.

Invested more than $5 million for in-state education, research, and workforce development initiatives, partnering with the Mystic Aquarium, Project Oceanology, UConn Avery Point, and more.

Additional information about rsted and Starboard Wind can be found at us.orsted.com/starboard-wind.

About rsted

A global clean energy leader, rsted develops, constructs, and operates offshore and land-based wind farms, solar farms, energy storage facilities, and bioenergy plants. rsted was the first energy company in the world to have its science-based net-zero emissions target validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and is recognized as the world's most sustainable energy company in the Corporate Knights Global 100 index.

In the United States, the company has a portfolio of clean energy assets and partnerships that includes offshore wind energy, land-based wind energy, solar, battery storage and e-fuels. rsted is a U.S. leader in offshore wind energy with approximately 3 gigawatts in development and operates America's first offshore wind farm, located off the coast of Block Island. rsted has a total U.S. land-based capacity of 5 gigawatts across wind, solar, storage technologies and e-fuels. To learn more about the rsted U.S. business, visit us.orsted.com or follow the company on Twitter (@OrstedUS), Instagram, and Facebook.

27 march 2024 at 12:05

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U.S. Virgin Islands Excels at Routes Americas, Achieving Record Air Access and Strong Growth





ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) emerged as a standout presence at Routes Americas, held in Bogota, Colombia from March 19th to 21st. Led by Commissioner Joseph Boschulte of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism (DTO), the USVI delegation exemplified strategic prowess in advancing air access and fostering crucial partnerships within the aviation industry.

Throughout the event, the USVI delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with 13 key industry stakeholders, including major airlines such as American, Delta, Southwest, Spirit Airways, JetBlue, and United. Meetings were centered on growth strategies aimed at opening new gateways in high-demand markets, enhancing existing routes, and addressing seasonality shifts to maximize the Territory's tourism potential.

Commissioner Boschulte expressed enthusiasm about the outcome of the meetings, emphasizing the positive feedback received from airline partners. "Our participation at Routes Americas 2024 was instrumental in solidifying our partnerships with key airlines and furthering our efforts to enhance air access to the U.S. Virgin Islands. The positive feedback received reaffirms our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences for travelers."

The USVI delegation presented comprehensive market analysis and data, including previews of marketing campaigns, cooperative opportunities, and award-winning strategies. This proactive approach resonated well with airline representatives, who expressed eagerness to incorporate the insights into their future scheduling and network decisions.

Commissioner Boschulte also highlighted the remarkable success of the USVI's air access initiatives, reporting record-breaking results for the current winter season. "We are thrilled to report unprecedented growth in air arrivals, with exceptionally strong yields to both St. Thomas and St. Croix," he stated. "The continued support from our airline partners emphasizes the promising outlook for tourism in the U.S. Virgin Islands."

From January to August 2024, the USVI is expected to experience a significant increase in air arrivals, with a remarkable 28% year-over-year growth compared to 2023 and a notable 18% year-over-year increase from January and February 2024 over the same period in 2022. Projections for the Continental US Winter 2023/2024 indicate a 25% increase compared to Winter 2022/2023 and a 15% increase versus 2021/2022.

Furthermore, specific data for St. Thomas (STT) and St. Croix (STX) reflects substantial growth trends. Projections for Continental US Winter (December ? March) 2023/2024 show a 20% increase for STT and an impressive 48% increase for STX compared to Winter 2022/2023. Additionally, from January to August 2024, STT has already experienced a 28% year-over-year growth compared to 2023 and an 11% increase versus 2022, while STX saw a 17% year-over-year growth compared to 2023 and an 18% increase versus 2022.

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism remains dedicated to building upon the momentum gained at Routes Americas 2024. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing air access, fostering partnerships, and delivering unparalleled travel experiences, the USVI looks forward to a bright future of sustainable growth and continued success in the tourism industry.

For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands and its offerings, please visit: https://www.visitusvi.com/

About the U.S. Virgin Islands

About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. The three?islands are St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry.?No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non-U.S. citizens.?For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to www.VisitUSVI.com, follow us on Instagram (@visitusvi) and Twitter (@usvitourism), and become a fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/VisitUSVI).

SOURCE U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism

27 march 2024 at 15:26

News published onand distributed by:
Manila-Based Expert Andrew J. Masigan Joins MEMRI





WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / MEMRI is honored to welcome renowned Manila-based economist and political scientist Andrew James Masigan as a special advisor to MEMRI's China Media Studies Project. Mr. Masigan is an economist, a businessman, and a political columnist for The Philippine Star. He is also board member of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.

In his writings, Mr. Masigan warned about China's hegemonic and expansionist ambitions in the region. Mr. Masigan warned that if China is allowed to subsume the South China Sea, then the CCP would control the bulk of world trade and gain unprecedented economic and military control over the Indo-Pacific region. "Having dominion over Taiwan and the sea lanes is precisely the power base China needs to project its influence worldwide. It brings it one step closer to dethroning the U.S.," he stated.

Concerning Taiwan, Mr. Masigan stressed that, in his New Year message, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that 2024 will be the year of reunification between China and Taiwan. In fact, Mr. Masigan wrote that China has been preparing for war: "This is evident in the wartime infrastructure they've built; in the changes they've made in their legal system; in the preparations to sanction-proof their economy; in their stockpile of fuel, essential raw materials and food and, most especially, in ensuring military readiness. China is telling the world of its intentions through its actions."

According to Masigan, there are several factors that could trigger an invasion: "First, if [Taiwan's President-elect] Lai Ching-te declares independence from China. Second, for political reasons. China's economy is in bad shape and public dissent is on the rise. A war will distract the Chinese people whilst uniting them. Third, if the People's Liberation Army pressures Xi to invade now (rather than later) since the generals are aging and their preparations will soon be for naught. Fourth, the power struggles within the Chinese Communist Party become so dividing that a war is used to unite the party. Fifth, if China's grey zone intimidation tactics are met with armed response." In addition, Masigan stated that 2024 is an opportune time for China to make its move: "America faces a presidential election in November and the last thing the American electorate wants is to fight a war that is not theirs. The more support Biden extends to Taiwan, the less popular he becomes. So should China attack Taiwan this year, Biden will be politically constrained."

As tensions are rising in the West Philippine Sea, Masigan stated that China's hostility towards the Philippines stems from the "Philippines' correct pivot to the axis of democracy." Commenting on the frequent China's water cannon attacks against Filipino vessels, Masigan stressed: "We must not take the frequent water cannon attacks like a sitting duck. I think Philippine National Security Secretary Eduardo Ano was wrong not to react. He should have fired back with water cannons since matching one type of aggression with the same cannot be considered escalation. Because, as I have said before, real escalation is to show weakness. Weakness is akin to an open invitation for China to act with impunity. A calculated retaliatory action works as strategic deterrence."

Masigan suggested the Philippines must "de-risk" from China and "lean in" to partner countries with whom the country shares the same values, such as Japan.

It is worth noting that the Philippines and the United States signed a Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) in 1951. The treaty has eight articles and requires both allies to defend each other if another party attacks the Philippines or the United States. Hence, one major accident provoked by China in the West Philippine Sea could trigger the U.S. or the Philippines to invoke the MDT.

ABOUT MEMRI

Exploring the Middle East and South Asia through their media, MEMRI bridges the language gap between the West and the Middle East and South Asia, providing timely translations of Arabic, Farsi, Urdu-Pashtu, Dari, Turkish, Russian, and Chinese media, as well as original analysis of political, ideological, intellectual, social, cultural, and religious trends.

Founded in February 1998 to inform the debate over U.S. policy in the Middle East, MEMRI is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization. MEMRI's main office is located in Washington, DC, with branch offices in various world capitals. MEMRI research is translated into English, French, Polish, Japanese, Spanish and Hebrew.

MEMRI - Middle East Media Research Institute: https://www.memri.org

Contact Information:

MEMRI

[email protected]

202-955-9070

www.memri.org

SOURCE: Middle East Media Research Institute

27 march 2024 at 16:30

View the original press release on accesswire.comNews published onand distributed by:
Alethea Discovers Russia's New Disinformation Network Tactics to Interfere in 2024 US Elections and Global Democracies





Dubbed 'Invisible Ink,' Alethea reports on Russia's increased sophistication in disinformation campaigns, and the network itself signals a shift in Russia's information operations objectives

WASHINGTON and SAN FRANCISCO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Alethea today released a report that demonstrates Doppelganger, a persistent Russian influence campaign first publicly exposed in 2022 and active primarily on X which promotes narratives intended to undermine support for Ukraine among the U.S. and its allies, is likely being leveraged by the Russian intelligence service, commonly referred to as the GRU. Based on Alethea's analysis, the Kremlin appears to have shifted its strategy from sowing division in target democracies to a sole focus on undermining support for Ukraine in global democracies. The narratives pushed by the network are protectionist and isolationist, helping to further Russia's goal of a weaker Ukraine with fewer resources. Currently, that means that Russian influence efforts are more likely to target conservative voters and support candidates that oppose military aid funding in Ukraine, including in the United States and Germany.

Dubbed 'Invisible Ink,' Alethea reports on Russia's increased sophistication in disinformation campaigns.

"The network demonstrates an evolution of Russian objectives with their information operations," said Alethea Founder and CEO Lisa Kaplan. "Where the Russians previously sought to sow chaos, now they appear to be singularly focused on influencing democracies to elect candidates that do not support sending aid to Ukraine ? which in turn supports isolationist, protectionist candidates and policies. This long-term strategy, if effective, would result in reduced support for Ukraine globally. Ultimately, democracies and elections free from foreign influence would be Russia's casualty."

The network appears to be exploiting the design in the X (formerly Twitter) API, and has created a new tactic, dubbed "Invisible Ink" by Alethea, in order to amplify the content. The network evades detection by researchers, security firms, and its targets by copying and pasting specific tweet URLs in lieu of retweeting or posting, requiring threat intelligence teams to know the exact tweet URL in order to ID amplification accounts. We assess the network's goal is to avoid detection of researchers leveraging the X API and thus, Alethea named the tactic "Invisible Ink" because the posts are only likely to be found by investigators who know precisely which posts to look for, as if they are written with invisible ink.

C. Shawn Eib, Alethea's Head of Investigations, stated, "We are now seeing Russia and GRU shift their focus to a narrower interest in narratives that support their military interests in both information and ground warfare, specifically attempting to reduce support for Ukraine among Western democracies. In addition to behaviors previously seen with the operation dubbed Doppelganger, they are employing newer tactics, dubbed 'Invisible Ink' by Alethea, including using the X platform in novel ways which hamper research efforts, supported by large scale automated amplification systems."

To access the full report please visit Alethea's website.

About Alethea

Alethea is a technology company helping the Fortune 500, private companies, and nonprofits protect themselves and leaders from harms stemming from disinformation. Leveraging its multi-channel machine learning platform, Artemis, Alethea detects disinformation narratives across the internet, enabling customers to proactively defend against this pervasive threat. With Artemis-powered early detection, Alethea customers can protect their reputations, key assets, physical safety and market value. The company was founded in 2019 and is woman-owned. Learn more at www.alethea.com.

SOURCE Alethea

27 march 2024 at 17:18

News published onand distributed by:
In a speech to the Russian Federal Assembly on February 29, prior to being re-elected to a fifth presidential term in a parody of an election, Vladimir Putin once again lashed out at the "so-called West" and Westerners. "They want to replicate in Russia what they have done in numerous other countries, including Ukraine," he stated. "Sowing discord in our home and weakening us from within." International terrorism was only mentioned once  and even then, in the past tense.

Less than a month later, the master of the Kremlin can count on the media to try to fit the devastating attack perpetrated by Islamic State Khorasan Province (IS-K) on March 22 in a concert hall on the outskirts of Moscow into the only box provided for threats: the one that necessarily implicates Ukraine's involvement.

Yet this bloodbath is a dramatic reminder of the resilience of an ideology that has survived the destruction of the self-proclaimed caliphate established in the Middle East in the disintegrating spaces of states weakened by civil wars born of their barbarity, in Syria, or the consequences of foreign invasion, in Iraq. Jihadist groups are totally indifferent to the new course of history that began on February 24, 2022, with Putin's invasion of Ukraine.

Read more Subscribers only Moscow attack: Flaws at the top, a scapegoat abroad

The return of conventional warfare between countries on European soil has set in motion once again the heavy machinery of strategic alliances and the remobilization of the European defense industry, atrophied by more than three decades of the illusion of perpetual peace and doux commerce, during which armed conflicts were often limited to the dispatch of special forces against distant militias. The invasion of Ukraine, like the subsequent war in Gaza, also highlighted the isolation of a Western camp in the face of a group of countries imperfectly summed up by the expression "Global South," convinced that the principles of the former are subject to variable geometry.

A formidable problem

But in the world view of the perpetrators of the March 22 attack, such fracture lines are negligible. In 2022, an IS publication, Al-Naba, summed up Russian aggression as a "war between the Orthodox crusaders." Another publication belonging to the branch that claimed responsibility for the Moscow terrorist attack, Voice of Khurasan, criticized both "America (...), a furious enemy of Islam throughout the last century," and Russia, which "has proven no different."

This juxtaposition poses a formidable problem. The latest attacks claimed by IS-K include the one carried out on January 3 in Iran against a crowd paying tribute to the former commander of the Revolutionary Guard Corps' Quds Force, Qasem Soleimani, killed in Baghdad in 2020 by an American strike. It was the deadliest terrorist operation in Iran (some 90 dead) since the 1979 revolution, while that targeting the Russian concert hall was the bloodiest (139 dead) for two decades.

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THE BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM

"The Kremlin are a very vengeful bunch," said Dan Storyev, English managing editor at OVD-Info. "After [Alexei Navalny's] funeral they're now coming after people, trying to find their faces on CCTV footage." At least 19 people who attended recent events in support of Alexei Navalny, the opposition leader who died in a Russian prison in February, have been detained after their images were identified by Moscow's surveillance systems. These include a woman who laid flowers in Navalny's memory on the day he died, and another who was captured on video at his funeral, according to Russian human rights organization OVD-Info. "The Kremlin are very technologically sophisticated in what they're doing. They're experts at destroying civil society and building an authoritarian regime they're trying to use every tool at their disposal to hold on to power and the arsenal that they have is massive," Storyev said.

The Bureau of Investigative Journalism (TBIJ), in partnership with Follow the Money and Paper Trail Media, investigated links between a gig work platform and Russian surveillance programs. Gig workers, who are paid to perform micro-tasks online, were hired to train the same facial recognition software used throughout Moscow via an Amsterdam-based platform called Toloka.

Read more Subscribers only Even in his Moscow grave, Alexei Navalny is treated as an enemy

This subsidiary of tech giant Yandex, often referred to as the "Russian Google", was looking for workers for two Russian companies  Tevian and NTechLab. Both have been sanctioned by the EU for their contribution to "serious human rights violations in Russia, including arbitrary arrests and detentions." This prohibits any European companies from collaborating with them. Toloka told TBIJ that the two companies had an agreement with Yandex's Russian subsidiary.

Cameras across Moscow

Tevian and NTechLab are major suppliers of software to Moscow's public surveillance system, one of the most extensive in the world. Facial recognition cameras, placed across the city and its metro, scan faces that pass by, seeking out matches with its "watchlist".

"You can be in any place in Moscow, you can be recognized immediately and this can be used against you," said Alexey Gusev. In March 2021, when he was a local politician, he received a phone call that changed the course of his life. According to Gusev, the police said they had a video of him attending a protest in support of Navalny, and asked him to report to the station. Less than two weeks later, he fled Moscow before he could be tried for attending and organizing the protest, although he received a fine for "taking part in an uncoordinated mass action." "I had to leave Russia because I realized that this case was becoming serious and the criminal conviction was highly likely to happen," he said. Gusev does not deny attending the protest but says he was not an organizer.

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In the early 21st century, outreach from institutions to private citizens faced a number of hurdles due to the changing landscape of communication, technology, and society. Conversations are often absent from our society as digital communication compresses our language to fit inside the very small footprint of social media and digital communication.

The hurdles can encompass information overload, communication preferences often dictated by ones generation, a trust deficit in government institutions, unreliable internet access or digital literacy, language barriers, privacy concerns, and a perception that government outreach equates to propaganda due to our politically polarized society. Moreover, the proliferation of unsolicited communication, such as spam, and deceptive and fraudulent activities like scams further complicate matters

For instance, within Boulder County, residents have access to a multitude of communication channels including at least seven local magazines, six television stations, and 13 social media and online sites. This landscape is further complicated by the presence of local email newsletters and social media from municipalities and state, national, and international sources. The combination of digital communication and the complexity of coordinating among the 20 departments and 29 boards that comprise our Boulder County government creates a challenge.

The county tries to overcome this by using several communication channels and avenues to reach residents. One strategy involves conducting public opinion surveys, the findings of which are made available on the countys website. These survey results serve as valuable insights aiding the Boulder County Commissioners in determining county policies, resource budgeting, and placement of initiatives on the ballot. Boulder County residents can opt into emails and SMS texts to receive the commissioners agendas, county-wide news, county-sponsored events, and Boulder Countys social media site. To sign up, go to Bouldercounty.gov/government/news.

Andrew Barth, the Communications Manager for Public Works within Boulder Countys Transportation Department, said, Each county department has their own communications person who handles public outreach. For Public Works, I start with the website as the home base for all information.

For road projects, Barth creates and maintains a project webpage throughout construction. The larger projects usually start with one or two public meetings to gather feedback. He also utilizes postcards or letters to residents in the affected area, news releases, emails, and posts on the countys calendar and community calendars such as the Daily Camera, and Hometown Weekly, and social media posts such as Nextdoor, Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter).

Barth also advocates for old-fashioned approaches such as flyers at community gathering places like coffee shops and post offices and sharing messages with town and city governments to distribute through their established channels. Barth aims to get the information in as many places as possible, but he says, The county website is typically the best source for all county-related information.

How do we participate in and with our government while juggling work, home, children, and personal time? One Colorado city engineer proposed making outreach a compulsory requirement like jury duty, the right to which is enshrined in the Constitution's 6th and 7th Amendments. As a result, the mechanisms to compensate people for their time and a selection process are already in place. This process would result in a qualified panel reflecting the communitys socio-economic diversity, dedicating time to converse and engage in discussions with multiple departments exchanging information.

Given the absence of this requirement presently, residents can proactively engage with their government through various means. They can opt for reliable sources of information from government websites, sign up for email or text notifications from government agencies, engage in community meetings and events, follow social media wisely, and fact-check questionable information from reputable sources like Factcheck.org or Snopes.com. Additionally, residents can become involved by joining civic organizations or volunteering for committees or boards.

Taking a proactive and selective approach to the sources and channels one engages in will help navigate some of the communication overload we experience and allow us to be part of our government.
TWO new candidates have declared their intention to run in this Junes local election.

Fianna Fail has added healthcare professional Suzzie ODeniyi to its ticket on the northside.

Born in Nigeria, but raised in Limerick from the age of five, she attended Scoil Mhaithar De primary school and the former Scoil Carmel secondary school in the city.

If elected, she says she hopes to bring her passion for mental health and suicide prevention, plus enhanced care supports for older people and those with disabilities into the role.

Both my personal and professional experience have enabled me to focus on the improvement in the areas of mental health, better care for our aging population, re-address community safety and expanding recreational opportunities for families and youths, she said.

Ms ODeniyi pointed out that women make up only 26% of sitting councillors in Ireland, a figure she described as a farce.

I'm running to be a representative and an ardent voice for those who feel unheard. It is also vital to be part of the decision-making process and that is to bring a fresh and creative community-focused perspective to the council, she added.

Ms O'Deniyi - who lives in Caherdavin - will be joined on the party ticket by veteran councillor Kieran OHanlon.

In City West, a Bangladeshi businessman has announced his intention to run as an Independent.

READ MORE: Elections 2024: Date confirmed for Limerick to go the polls in June

Shahin Keza, who lives in Raheen, has lived in Limerick for the past 24 years.

A restaurant owner, he has been active in the All Bangladeshi Association of Ireland, where he has served as vice-president.

There are around 500 Bangladeshi people in Limerick.

He will be the second person from the south Asian nation to seek a seat in City West, with the current metropolitan district leader, Cllr Azad Talukder making history when he was elected to council in 2019.
A POLISH man who collected a 15-year-old boy at a playground in County Limerick for the purpose of sexual exploitation has been jailed and placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years.

Daniel Lasota, aged 44, of Carr Street, Limerick city also offered to pay a man he met online for sex with his young cousin, Limerick Circuit Criminal Court heard in February.

A senior Limerick detective said Lasota was clearly seeking out young boys for his own sexual gratification. Judge Dermot Sheehan said: These are serious matters.

Lasota pleaded guilty in February to one count of meeting a child for the purpose of sexual exploitation and two counts of using information and communication technology to facilitate sexual exploitation of a child.

The case was adjourned until March as the judge said he was going to have to think about this.

The court heard in February that Lasota, who had previously entered a seminary in Poland, picked up the 15-year-old boy after they had met earlier on a date in August 2019 on Grindr - the world's largest social networking app for gay, bi, trans, and queer people.

The teenager got out of the defendants car while stopped at a red light in Limerick city and told the driver of the vehicle behind that he had been kidnapped.

Prosecuting barrister Lily Buckley, instructed by State solicitor Aidan Judge, outlined the case with the assistance of Detective Sergeant Michael Reidy.

Specialist garda interviewers met with the boy. Ms Buckley said he told them he downloaded the Grindr app as he was a bit confused who he was sexually. The boy told gardai when he was in the car, I just kept asking myself what I was doing? I didnt know the consequences.

Det Sgt Reidy said the victim purported to be 18 when he set up his Grindr profile, which is a necessity on that site, but when Mr Lasota met him at the playground it was clear he was of tender years.

A photo of the boy was briefly shown to Judge Sheehan who said, He looks very young.

After Mr Lasota was arrested, information was downloaded from his phone and from his Grindr profile. Ms Buckley said Mr Lasota was in contact with a profile called Young two weeks before the boy was in his car going to the city.

Young told Mr Lasota he was minding his little cousin for the evening. Mr Lasota offered to pay for sex, said Ms Buckley. Young didnt respond after this.

The court heard Mr Lasota told gardai during interviews that the boy he collected at the playground told him he was 16 and a half but that he didnt believe him. He told gardai they were going to go for food and would bring the boy home as he wanted to be home for 8pm.

Gardai asked him during the interview if it was a good idea to have a child in his car and have sexual conversations with him.

No, said Mr Lasota.

At the end of his evidence, Det Sgt Reidy said the boy found himself in a vulnerable place in August 2019 but has moved on with his life and is now in gainful employment.

Yvonne Quinn BL, who represented Mr Lasota, said her client made a mistake and knows he shouldnt have done it.

He said it was totally wrong, said Ms Quinn.

Det Sgt Reidy said on the day Mr Lasota saw the risk and disregarded the risk.

Ms Quinn said her client has instructed her to convey his deepest apologies and especially to the complainant.

He has never been in court before in Poland or Ireland. He finds himself here, is full of contrition and is profoundly ashamed of his actions. He takes full responsibility. He gave remarkably candid interviews and there was a high level of cooperation, said

Ms Quinn, who spoke of the value of the guilty plea so the victim didnt have to give evidence.

Ms Quinn handed in counselling and psychological reports which indicate a zero to low risk of reoffending.

READ MORE: Car stolen from Limerick supermarket car park found burnt out

She said the age of consent is 16 in Poland but he knew that it is 17 in Ireland and thought he looked young.

He wasnt thinking straight at the time. He has been open, transparent and is profoundly ashamed. He deeply regrets it and welcomes that the injured party has moved on with his life, said Ms Quinn.

When the case was back before Judge Sheehan for sentencing this month, he said there are a number of aggravating factors - the boy looked extremely young, Lasota allowed him into his car, they drove for a long time and these are serious matters.

The mitigation factors were his guilty pleas, he hasnt come to adverse garda attention in the intervening years, and the psychological report which says he is not a danger if at large.

Judge Sheehan jailed Lasota for two and half years with the last 18 months suspended on each count to be served concurrently.
A TENSE stalemate has taken hold at the University of Limerick this week with its under-pressure president fighting to remain in her role amid growing calls for her resignation.

It seems as though she isnt prepared to go, a well-placed source at the college told the Leader on Tuesday afternoon, referring to Professor Kerstin Mey.

Obviously many different groups in the institution are saying they have no confidence in her, but it seems there is a stand-off, they added.

Pressure has been mounting on Prof Mey after it emerged the institution lost 5.2m after paying inflated prices for 20 homes in Rhebogue last year.

The chancellor of the college, Prof Brigid Laffan will be on campus this Thursday to face students and staff in a meeting in University Concert Hall slated for 1.30pm. Sources say depending on what is said, it could make for a fractious meeting.

Following this meeting, a crunch meeting of ULs governing authority is set to take place to consider a review into the overspend, which has seen single homes in the suburb bought for almost three times their value.

UL paid approximately 630,000 per home, with comparable properties on the market at 250,000.

Prof Mey would normally attend these governing body meetings, but it's unclear if she will be in attendance this Thursday.

I can only imagine it will be tense. I just cant see things continuing as normal at this stage, stated another UL source.

The latest controversy has seen UL once again make national headlines in relation to its spending. It follows reports earlier this year that UL bosses paid more than 1.5m over the market value for the former Dunnes Stores site in the city centre.

Regardless of whos right and whos wrong, it doesnt look great that this is the image we are portraying, added the source in relation to the latest developments this week regarding the Rhebogue houses.

There has been a huge backlash across the college community to news of the overspend which was confirmed in an email from Prof Mey to staff and students last Friday.

READ MORE: University of Limerick chancellor calls special meeting of all students and staff

There have been calls for an investigation to take place into who is responsible for the overspend.

The sole trade union on campus, UL Unite, which represents almost 900 workers, says it no longer has any confidence in Prof Mey.

They expressed despair and sadness as to the direction UL is taking, as well as outrage at the spend on the homes, which are occupied by post-graduate students.

In an unprecedented move, a group of 73 professors have called for the president to resign with immediate effect.

In a letter seen by the Limerick Leader they have cited a crisis in leadership at the college. Signed by the academics acting in a personal capacity, the letter was sent to university chancellor Prof Brigid Laffan, as well as the president, members of the governing authority and its university executive.

At the weekend, the Leader revealed that 10 members of this 13-strong executive committee signed a letter calling on Prof Mey to effectively resign her post.

On top of this, the Postgraduate Students Union which represents some 4,000 students at the college also voted overwhelmingly for her to resign.

UL Student Life, which represents undergraduates on campus, meanwhile, did not return two requests for comment from this newspaper.

The Limerick Leader contacted Dr Ed Walsh, the founding president of the university, for his opinion on the week's developments but he respectfully declined to comment.

In her email to staff and students, Prof Mey - the first woman to lead a university in Ireland - said the overspend is a matter of regret.

I am aware that there is frustration and anger among staff members that this has happened so soon after the issues that arose in relation to the City Centre Campus, she said in relation to the purchase of the former Dunnes Stores building.

I am engaging with our stakeholders to chart the best way forward and there will be action taken as a result of the review that has been commissioned in the transaction, she added.

UL has declined to comment further.
A CANDIDATE to become Limerick's first directly elected mayor is to step down from his roles with both Shannon Airport and the Limerick Economic Forum.

John Moran, a former secretary general at the Department of Finance, is contesting the maiden election on Friday, June 7, as an Independent candidate.

He says he has stepped down from a number of other roles at local organisations.

Mr Moran, who hails from Mungret, says he feels it's important to lead by example, and show Limerick voters "early and emphatically" that should he be elected, his office would not tolerate any conflict of interest.

READ MORE: One of the top surgeons in Ireland was some man for one man

"In a matter of weeks, Limerick will have the first directly elected mayor in Ireland. We should show the rest of Ireland how this can work, how it will work and how it must work if we are to understand and grasp the opportunities that this historic reform gives us," he said.

"That has to start with visible and strict demarcation and greater transparency in the areas of budget, contracts, lobbying and careful control of who sits on different boards, especially when dealing with organisations contracting with or in receipt of funds from the local authority. As Secretary General of the Department of Finance, I introduced new practices in this area to ensure greater transparency and I shall be doing likewise if elected as mayor," confirmed Mr Moran.

Mr Moran said he has already advised the Minister for Transport and informed the board of Shannon Airport at last weeks board meeting of his decision and has stepped down from his role at the Limerick Economic Forum.

He added also that the integrity of any potential future decision of his to allocate local authority funds, is protected by the fact that he has already stepped away from his board roles with local charities benefiting from support from Limerick council, notably the UL Foundation; Liveable Limerick; Narrative 4 and the Hunt Museum.
AN UPCOMING Research Week will offer 'a window into the excellent and impactful research that is being carried out at the University of Limerick (UL).

Thats according to ULs vice president of research professor, Norelee Kennedy, who launched the event, which takes place from April 29, to May 3.

Among other topics, UL Research Week will look at what impact artificial intelligence is having on people's working lives, what can be done to revolutionise sustainability for a greener future, how people can support and provide better care for older people who present at hospitals and what the impact of music is for people with dementia and their family carers.

These questions and more will be answered and debated during Research Week, which offers insight into the diverse range of fundamental and multidisciplinary research that is being carried out in UL.

The week-long series of events highlights the excellent research that impacts society at a local, national and international level.

There is also a focus on the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in the research landscape.

Unveiling details of UL Research Week, professor Norelee Kennedy explained: Research is at the heart of what we do in University of Limerick. As a research-intensive institution, innovation and creativity are at the core of what we do. We are creating knowledge for a better world.

Research Week gives the wider campus community and members of the public a window into the excellent and impactful research that is being carried out in UL on a daily basis, Ms Kennedy said.

Through our research strategy Wisdom for Action we are championing excellent fundamental research, which is contributing towards addressing global challenges, while embracing the spirit of collaboration, openness and discovery, she added.

According to the vice president, Research Week is a platform through which people can tell our stories and debate the future direction of research and its importance.

Among the other events taking place this year are: Emerging Breakthroughs Advancing Cancer Research which explores the five emerging themes of the research centre such as tumour microenvironments, the cancer genome, lifestyle biology and cancer, infection in cancer and blood cancers.

Panel members of the Limerick Digital Cancer Research Centre will discuss their groundbreaking cancer research.

Monday, 29 April | Engineering Research Building | 2.30pm

Public Understandings of Hate Crime: Ireland, North and South presents data from the ground-breaking Irish Research Council-funded Public Understandings of Hate Crime,

Tuesday, 30 April | Engineering Research building | 4pm

Injury Surveillance in Rugby: Enhancing Player Welfare details the Irish Rugby Injury Surveillance (IRIS) project on the nature of injuries in Irish amateur rugby (male and female) and the schools game. It includes the first long-term surveillance of injuries in the womens game globally.

Friday, 3 May | Engineering Research Building | 9.30am

Research Trends in Electronic Music Culture focuses on the creative process in the digital arts and the aesthetic possibilities of new technologies and fosters experimentation in a wide range of disciplines, including electronic music, visual media, installation art, virtual art, and performance.

Thursday, 2 May | Foundation Building | 12.30pm

Research Ethics: Good Practice and Contemporary Challenges will debate recent challenges to undertaking research with human participants, with particular reference to the problem of criminal disclosures in the course of data collection, participant issues from consent to co-production and web challenges from data scraping to ChatGPT.

Wednesday, 1 May | Foundation Building | 11am

Three-Minute Thesis Grand Final, join the finalists as they present a summary of their research and its potential impact  all in just three minutes, using one slide, in front of a panel of judges.

Wednesday, 1 May | Kemmy Business School | 3pm

Research Week 2024 takes place from 29 April to 3 May. Details of the full research week programme of events and how to register are available at ul.ie/researchweek.
A scheme that will see 800,000 private sector workers automatically enrolled in a pension is to be approved by Cabinet today.

Minister for Social Protection Heather Humphreys has set out how she will introduce the long-awaited scheme that will see the workers automatically signed up for a pension.

The scheme will involve the state contributing one euro to every three euros a worker puts into their pension pot, with employers also contributing three euros to match the worker.

Employees who are not enrolled in a pension scheme and are aged between 23 and 60 will be automatically enrolled.

The legislation will include a provision to allow a worker to opt out of the scheme.

Speaking on her way into Cabinet on Wednesday, Ms Humphreys said: Auto-enrolment has been talked about for decades so Im delighted to be bringing forward legislation for approval at Cabinet today, which will mean 800,000 private sector workers who currently dont have a pension scheme will be enrolled into a pension scheme.

It means that when they retire, theres going to be a pot there. So theyll have their own pension scheme on top of the state pension.

Its very simple. For every three euros you save, your employer matches the three Euro and the state tops it up with one (euro).

She added: Most people find when they retire, that they dont have any pension provision, theres a cliff edge drop in their income.

I want to stop with that. I want to make sure that when they retire, theres extra money in their pocket. Its good for society, its good for the economy, its good for businesses because theres more money available to spend.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said: I think that (the scheme) is evidence of the Government looking more long-term in many of our decisions.
Lord Jonathan Caine has visited Downpatrick to see how homes and businesses are recovering from devastating floods last year.

The under-secretary of state for Northern Ireland said he was struck by the resilience of the community.

In November, businesses and homeowners in Downpatrick, Newry and Portadown were severely affected by floods caused by Storm Ciaran.

In response, the UK Government reallocated 15 million of existing Northern Ireland funding for support packages.

The initial package included rates relief for flooded business premises until March 31 2024 and one-off grant payments of 7,500 for eligible businesses.

Additionally, the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) announced support of up to 100,000 per business to help with the replacement of damaged or destroyed equipment, refitting of flooded property and repair of damage to buildings.

On Wednesday, Lord Caine returned to Downpatrick to meet some of those affected by Storm Ciaran and heard how they are recovering.

He said: When I visited Downpatrick in November last year, I was struck by the heart-breaking stories that I heard, but also impressed by the resilience of the community and their united resolve to rebuild local businesses and facilities.

I was very pleased to return to Downpatrick to see how the local community is recovering from the flooding.

In particular, I am glad to see that the rates relief and 15 million funding made available by the UK Government, in the absence of the NI Executive last year, is being put to use for the betterment of those affected.

In January, I also met my parliamentary colleague and Asda chairman Lord Rose to discuss the future commitment of the company to Downpatrick, and was pleased to be able to visit the temporary store today.

I also welcome the NI Civil Services enhanced flood support scheme that made up to 10 million available to assist small and medium-sized businesses.

I know the Department of Economy has worked closely with local councils to deliver this support and I am grateful for their efforts.

I hope the Executive can now work to support businesses and local communities in the long-term as they fully recover from the flooding and begin building a prosperous future.
Tech companies are serving up million-dollar-a-year compensation packages, accelerated stock-vesting schedules and offers to poach entire engineering teams to draw people with expertise and experience in the kind of generative AI that is powering ChatGPT and other humanlike bots. They are competing against each other and against startups vying to be the next big thing to unseat the giants.

The offers stand out even by the industrys relatively lavish past standards of outsize pay and perks. And the current AI talent shortage stands out for another reason: It is happening as layoffs are continuing in other areas of tech and as companies have been reallocating resources to invest more in covering the enormous cost of developing AI technology.

There is a secular shift in what talents were going after," says Naveen Rao, head of Generative AI at Databricks. We have a glut of people on one side and a shortage on the other."

Databricks, a data storage and management startup, doesnt have a problem finding software engineers. But when it comes to candidates who have trained large language models, or LLMs, from scratch or can help solve vexing problems in AI, such as hallucinations, Rao says there might be only a couple of hundred people out there who are qualified.

Some of these hard-to-find, tier-one candidates can easily get total compensation packages of $1 million a year or more.

Salespeople in AI are also in demand and hard to find. Selling at the beginning of a technology transition when things are changing rapidly requires a different skill set and depth of knowledge. Candidates with those skills are making around double what an enterprise software salesperson would. But that isnt the norm for most people working in AI, Rao says.

For managerial roles in AI and machine learning, base-pay increases ranged from 5% to 11% from April 2022 to April 2023, according to a WTW survey of more than 1,500 employers. The base-pay increases of nonmanagerial roles ranged from 13% to 19% during the same period.

Levels.fyi co-founder Zuhayeer Musa says the median salary for six candidates who had consulted the career-services platform about job offers from OpenAI was $925,000 including bonus and equity. The median compensation of 344 machine learning and AI engineers at Meta who revealed their pay to Levels.fyi was nearly $400,000 a year including bonus and equity, he added.

Scott Chetham, CEO of Faro Health, which uses AI to help pharmaceutical companies design more efficient drug trials, aims to keep salaries in the top 25% of what companies in the space pay. Through 2023, that was hard to do because of extremely high outliers, but he is now seeing signs of softening this year. Its early, but its not as bad as it was," Chetham said.

Chethams company was courting a candidate recently from one of the largest consulting firms and made her an offer. The firm countered by doubling the employees salary. The candidate told him she was annoyed that her company only offered to double her salary when she was presented with a competing job because they could have been paying her more all along.

To keep his own talent, Chetham has added more equity incentives for his top employees. Their first set of shares in the company vest over four years, but at the two-year mark they get another grant of shares that starts vesting at the five-year mark.

We have to keep refreshing equity to keep people incentivized," he says.

While base compensation tends to be less at startups than at major tech companies, some employees with entrepreneurial instincts are betting they can make a bigger mark by striking out on their own. Arthur Mensch, a former Google employee, left the company to launch the startup Mistral AI and at less than a year old, it is already valued at a little over $2 billion.

One AI researcher with Google says he has been approached by recruiters regularly over the past five years but that there has been a noticeable uptick recently.

The researcher says he hasnt been tempted by opportunities with startups because so few have the funding needed to train LLMs, the machine-learning algorithms trained on mountains of text that power AI programs. Google has the resources he needs and, on top of that, he cares about the work itself being interesting and furthering AI for good, the researcher says. And unlike many of his co-workers, he says, he recently received extra equity as a bonus.

Justin Kinsey, president of a semiconductor-recruiting firm, says candidates can be won over by various factors, from compensation to being a true believer in a startups mission to being promised autonomy over their work.

He said he recently recruited an engineering manager for an AI hardware startup from Microsoft. The candidate forfeited more than $1 million in bonuses and Microsoft stock, and took a $100,000 cut in base pay to join the startup, Kinsey said, because the candidate had enormous confidence in the CEO. In five to seven years, the recruit anticipates he will get $40 million from the stock alone, says Kinsey.

With another candidate, what sealed the deal was a verbal promise that the person could start an entirely new product line once he delivered on making the companys first chip.

The race to build chipsthe hardware required to train large language modelsis so intense that Kinsey has had four clients in the past year ask him to poach entire engineering teams from competitors to shave off the time it takes a new team to collaborate well together.

Weve been asked to help really with team extraction," he says. They could plug and play, and it eliminates a steep learning curve."

Tech workers who dont have experience in AI are looking to add it to their resumes. When the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania recently held a four-day executive education program in San Francisco called Generative AI and Business Transformation for $12,000, the 50 available spots filled up very quickly, says Caroline Pennartz, a spokeswoman with Wharton.

Alexis Roucourt, who previously worked at Meta and is currently consulting, says many of his tech worker friends are noticing the growing number of jobs requiring AI knowledge. It has been causing concern and a race to get up to speed. Several workers he knows are upskilling to stay up on trends in AI and build out their resumes.

Me included," he says. Im taking a course on AI."

Write to Katherine Bindley at katie.bindley@wsj.com
New Delhi: On the evening of 18 February, a video of a Land Rover Defenderarguably the most accomplished sports utility vehicle (SUV) in the worldbeing pulled out of a snow pit near Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, went viral on social media. Another similar clip showed Scorpio, one of Mahindras best-selling SUVs, getting stuck in the same spot.

The vehicle that pulled those two out of the rut was the diminutive Jimny, Maruti Suzuki Indias off-road machine". On paper lighter and equipped with a much smaller engine, this was a case of a vehicle punching well above its weight.

With its light-weight construction, it possesses impressive four wheel drive capabilities reminiscent of the Maruti Gypsy. The weight-to-power ratio contributes to its remarkable off-road performance," said Rattan Dhillon, a Chandigarh-based automotive enthusiast who is part of the citys Gerrari Offroaders forumits members go for weekend drives.

It shines with its raw power making it an excellent choice for off-road excursions," he added.

In less than a year since its launch, Jimny is fast acquiring a cult following in the niche segment of true blue off-roaders that Dhillon belongs to. In many ways, it is reminiscent of its predecessor, Gypsy, which had a three-decade long stint in the country and remains a fan favourite among rallyists and off-roaders.

Yet, in Indias crowded auto market, Jimny has dug a hole for itself. And Maruti Suzuki may find it difficult to pull it out of that hole.

Since its launch in the domestic market nearly nine months ago, in June 2023, less than 17,000 units have been sold. From a high of 3,778 units in July, sales have steadily declined. In the first two months of this year, less than 500 units have been sold.

Thus far, this year, it is the lowest of the 17 models that Maruti sells in the countrybelow even the dated Ciaz sedan and the much more expensive Invicto 7-seater multi-utility vehicle.

At the same time, Jimnys only direct rival, Mahindra Thar, has grown its tally consistently, from 4,000 units sold in June 2023 to nearly 6,000 in February 2024 (see chart).

While both cars share the same off-road features, there are notable differences," Dhillon said. Thar offers a more powerful engine and larger size. It has greater seating capacity and cargo space making it more suitable for those who require additional passenger or storage options."

Sold through Nexa dealerships, this is a rare failure for Maruti, Indias largest car maker with a market share of 42% in the passenger vehicle market. More so, because SUVs are all the rage in the country now, accounting for over half of all passenger vehicle sales. Compact SUVsboth Jimny and Thar are in this categoryform a third of the market (see chart).

Jimny sticks out like a sore thumb for Maruti also because it tempers the momentum it gained in SUVs. Maruti nearly doubled its market share in the domestic SUV market, from 10.5% in 2022 to 19.7% in 2023. In a hotly contested battle, it was a close second to Mahindra (21.6% share). In fact, in the third quarter, when sales of Jimny were high, it nudged ahead of Mahindra. As volumes shrunk in the last quarter, Maruti lost the edge.

The question is what went wrong?

Price hurts

Jimny is not a new car. It has over five decades of global off-roading pedigree. First produced in 1970, in Japan, over 3.2 million units of the SUV have been sold worldwide till date and it did particularly well in Latin America, Middle East and Africa.

Maruti Suzuki is renowned for knowing the pulse of the consumer. But in this case, did it get the India pricing wrong?

View Full Image The slowdown in Jimny sales was all too sudden and took Maruti by surprise. (Reuters)

Launched at 12.74- 15.05 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), Jimny was one of the most expensive compact SUVs in the country.

The pricing was off from the beginning," said Himanshu Singh, research analyst at Prabhudas Lilladher, a brokerage house. The SUV launched with a four-wheel drive version (the engine powers all four wheels uniformly, resulting in better control) and a 1.5 litre petrol engine.

Four-wheel drive versions are more expensive than two-wheel ones (the engine powers two wheels) and a bigger engine attracts more goods and services tax (GST).

This meant it attracted a high 45% GST rate which increased the price," said Singh. It did not help that Mahindra launched the two-wheel drive version of Thar (in January 2023 at 10 lakh) and brought down the entry price. That has given them good growth."

Mahindras two-wheel drive version, with less than 1.5 litre diesel engine, attracts a GST of 31%.

We received feedback that Jimnys price was higher by around  2 lakh. Shashank Srivastava

The slowdown in sales was all too sudden and took Maruti by surprise. The company had started bookings of the SUV during the Auto Expo in January 2023 and by the time of the launch, on 7 June, it was sitting pretty with over 30,000 orders. Yet, by the end of the year, things had started unravelling. Dealerships were stuck with inventories. This forced Maruti to launch a new affordable variant, Thunder, which was cheaper by 2 lakh. This discounted version was aimed at clearing the inventories.

We received feedback that the price was higher by around 2 lakh. By August, there were significant cancellations as well," admitted Shashank Srivastava, senior executive director (marketing and sales), Maruti Suzuki India. We do not want to carry much stock from one calendar year to the next for any brand. So, discounts during the year-end are a stock clearance exercise," he added.

Even then, sales have remained subdued. Jimnys problems, therefore, go beyond its pricing.

Missed trick

View Full Image Mahindra launched a three-door Thar in October 2020 and struck gold.

Early morning on 8 February 2020, the fourth day of the biennial Auto Expo in Greater Noida, there was an unusual flutter at the venue. Maruti showcased a three-door Suzuki Jimny. Tucked away in a corner and perched on an inclined platform, the vehicle, in its olive-green livery, quickly became the showstopper.

By November 2020, Maruti started production at its Gurugram facility for exportsto Latin America and Africa. But it dithered over launching the car in India, going by traditional wisdom that three-door cars are considered impractical by Indians. Did it miss a trick here?

Mahindra launched a three-door Thar in October 2020 and struck gold. Between October 2020 and October 2023, Thar sold over 125,000 units. They always wanted a mass market play, which is why they chose not to launch the three-door version, which is already there in Japan. They waited for the five-door version," said Singh of Prabhudas Lilladher.

Wrong positioning

View Full Image At the Auto Expo 2023 in Greater Noida, Jimny was a showstopper.

Jimnys five-door version was finally ready and showcased at the Auto Expo last year. It again garnered a lot of attention, prompting Maruti to open bookings straightaway. The company initially planned to sell 2,000-2,500 units every month. But it received 3,000 bookings on the first day itself.

The decision to have a five-door version was based on the feedback we received from the 2020 Auto Expo. Initially, the response was beyond our imagination. We were sitting on bookings of over 35,000 units in a matter of just a few months," said Srivastava.

The initial response led Maruti into believing they underestimated the market. Now, they wanted to sell 100,000 units per annum globally with India accounting for two-thirds of it. At the current rate, it wont even notch up a third of that target. Jimny had a wrong positioning to start with, Avik Chattopadhyay, co-founder of Expereal, a brand strategy consultancy firm, said. Maruti thought Thar, which is a lifestyle vehicle for urban people to show off, is a competitor. People who enjoy the outdoors and off-roading look forward to a vehicle like Jimny. Maruti should have pitched for them," he added.

Lack of girth was another dampener. Developed in 1970, Jimny was conceived as a small light weight off-roader. It even spawned a Kei versiona category of cars in Japan that have 660cc engines and receive tax incentives. It has remained diminutive throughout. Even the erstwhile Gypsy that was based on the second generation Jimny, would be out of sync in todays crowd of butch SUVs.

Mahindra Thar, which is big and bold, comes with years of trust on ruggedness," said Puneet Gupta, director, S&P Global mobility, a market research and consulting firm. To create a niche, Maruti needs to find the sweet spot in pricing and target early aspirational buyers. Currently, it doesnt reflect a great proposition to the customers."

Though the five-door version is a bit bulkierit has a 340mm longer wheelbase than the three-door variantit still has a much smaller footprint. Jimny and Thar have the same length but Thar is wider (1,820mm vs 1,645mm of Jimny), has more height (1,855mm vs 1,720mm) and sits taller (226mm ground clearance vs 210mm). Since Jimny is a global platform, Marutis in-house research and development (R&D) teams had limited space to play with. Unlike Fronx SUV, which is based on the Baleno, but allowed us a lot of scope to play, we couldnt really meddle with Jimny too much," said an engineer at Maruti who didnt want to be identified. We would have wanted it to be bigger and wider but that means making a completely new car."

Exports, the saviour

In the last few years, Maruti has beefed up its exports strategy and has overtaken Hyundai to become the countrys largest car exporter. In 2023, Hyundai exported 164,000 vehicles from India. In comparison, Maruti exported 269,000.

The made-in-India Jimny can add handsomely to these numbers. In fact, it is already a hit overseas. It is exported to the Middle East, Latin America and African regions. In 2023-24, the car maker expects to export 24,000 Jimny units.

The export volumes, however, can offset underwhelming domestic sales only for sometime. The company also has to deal with a larger threat looming on the horizon. A five-door Thar is expected later this year. Thats an onslaught Jimny may find hard to defend. Given that it is positioned against Thar, the latters five-door version can very well spell the end of Jimny," said Chattopadhyay of Expereal.

How to fix

But not all is lost. Analysts feel that if Maruti introduces a three-door and a cheaper two-wheel drive version, it could give more options to consumers.

It is the only way Maruti can elevate sales, targeting a wider spectrum of customers by offering a wide choice in variants," said Gupta of S&P. A sub 10 lakh pricing will differentiate Jimny substantially from the Thar. It can appeal to young and aspirational customers," he added.

View Full Image Gypsy was a big draw with the armed forces and government security agencies.

Additionally, Maruti is yet to target institutional sales which formed the bedrock for Gypsy. The latter was a big draw with the armed forces and government security agencies, including state police forces. With Gypsy being discontinued in 2019, there is a void to be filled in this market.

This is a terrific vehicle for police, industrial and defence applications. It is far more capable than Thar in dynamic performance," agreed Chattopadhyay of Expereal.

Maruti says it is trying.

The car maker will look at all options to supply Jimny to the government, Srivastava said. However, this may take time as the vehicle needs to be built to certain specifications.

The current generation Jimny has a lower payload capacitythe amount of cargo that a vehicle can carrycompared to Gypsy. It may, therefore, need significant tuning.

A sub  10 lakh pricing will differentiate Jimny substantially from the Thar. It can appeal to the young. Puneet Gupta

Maruti, meanwhile, is keen to work with people like Dhillon to exhibit Jimnys off-road capabilities. Given that the number of hardcore off-roaders is still likely to be small, it will have to temper its expectations.

I still believe Jimny has a potential to sell 2,000-2,500 units per month, which was our initial estimate. It will take some time but we will keep at it," said Srivastava. Jimnys off-roading capabilities are unmatched and eventually consumers will realize that. Our job is to make the market realize that."
Merck is making a big bet that its new drug, approved Tuesday in the U.S. for a potentially fatal lung disease, will take the company a long way toward heading off a massive revenue decline later this decade.

The drug, which will sell under the name Winrevair, treats a condition called pulmonary arterial hypertension that affects nearly 40,000 people in the U.S. In 2021, Merck paid $11.5 billion for the company developing the medicine. Some analysts estimate sales as high as $7.5 billion a year.

Merck is counting on the blockbuster performance. More than 40% of the drug companys revenue, some $25 billion last year, comes from cancer treatment Keytruda. The immunotherapy is the worlds top-selling drug. Mercks main U.S. patent for it expires in 2028, opening the door for lower-cost versions to eat into sales.

Winrevair will list for a price of $14,000 a vial, which for about two-thirds of patients will be the amount given every three weeks. That translates into about $242,000 for a full year, though Merck said the cost would vary by patient because dosage is weight-based.

We see this as a multibillion-dollar potential opportunity for the company," Merck Chief Executive Rob Davis said in an interview. Over time we think we can move into earlier lines of therapy and potentially into much broader patient populations."

Davis said progress in Mercks research pipeline would help make the Keytruda loss of exclusivity more of a hill than a cliff. And our confidence that we will be able to grow beyond that is high."

The Food and Drug Administration approved Winrevair as an add-on therapy to other drugs for pulmonary arterial hypertension, which is commonly known as PAH.

The disease is a type of high blood pressure caused by constrictions in tiny arteries of the lungs. It causes shortness of breath and fatigue, diminishes exercise capacity and can be fatal without treatment. It is most common in women ages 30 to 60 years.

Winrevair, also known by its generic name sotatercept, uses a new approach to target the underlying cause of PAH. It works to stop the proliferation of cells in artery walls that lead to constrictions.

In a Phase 3 study, a sotatercept injection every three weeks significantly improved volunteers exercise capacitymeasured by distance walked in six minutesand extended the time until either death or disease progression, compared with a placebo.

Its a big breakthrough," said Dr. Jessica Huston, a cardiologist at Ascension Saint Thomas Heart in Nashville, Tenn., who enrolled patients in the Merck-funded study. It feels like this drug is finally something different than weve been doing all along, and is actually disease modifying."

The drug was associated with side effects including bleeding and the formation of small blood vessels on the skin in some patients.

Its launch returns cardiovascular treatment to a prominent place at Rahway, N.J.-based Merck. The companys first billion-dollar drug was Vasotec for high blood pressure. Mevacor was the first commercial statin for high cholesterol, and the company later sold the next-generation statin Zocor.

Merck also is hoping to preserve some Keytruda sales by testing whether its use in combination with other therapies works better than Keytruda alone. These include an experimental cancer vaccine developed by Moderna and a next-generation chemotherapy treatment called an antibody-drug conjugate.

Among its top drug prospects in the works are treatments for lung cancer and a pneumococcal vaccine for adults.
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. is calling off an initial public offering for its Cainiao logistics arm, shelving a much-anticipated debut that could have raised more than $1 billion.

Chinas e-commerce pioneer decided to postpone the transaction because of poor market conditions, people familiar with the matter said. It lost its taste for the deal this year as stocks waned, the people said, asking to remain anonymous discussing a private matter. Alibaba could choose to revive the IPO should markets recover, they added.

Its the second time Alibaba has nixed a high-profile coming-out party for one of its main businesses. In 2023, the Chinese internet firm stunned the market when it called off a listing of its $11 billion cloud unit. Cainiao Smart Logistics Network Ltd., which handles a major chunk of the millions of parcels that Alibabas e-commerce business generates daily, was considered one of its fastest-growing enterprises.

Last year, Alibaba also put plans to debut its Freshippo grocery chain on the back burner. Its retreat coincides with growing uncertainty in public markets as Beijing grapples with a property crisis, loss of foreign investor confidence and the resultant economic downturn. At the same time, domestically oriented businesses are struggling to grow their topline because of waning consumer confidence.

Alibaba's Restructuring

Alibaba is still grappling with fundamental questions surrounding the once-dominant internet company  a barometer of Chinese demand. Its performance underscored a loss of market share to rivals such as PDD and ByteDance Ltd. It posted a lower-than-projected 5% rise in December quarter revenue to 260.3 billion yuan ($36.2 billion), well off the pace of previous years.

Fueling the uncertainty, the company is going through a complicated multi-way split intended to create several independent businesses and rejuvenate the national icon. The company last year outlined plans to float its Freshippo grocery chain and Cainiao logistics arm. But Chairman Joseph Tsai last month appeared to soften its stance on those plans, saying it was in no hurry to float Cainiao because challenging market conditions would prevent it from reaping fair value.

Cainiao filed for its IPO about six months ago in September. Alibaba  which after years of frenetic investment now controls a vast portfolio of assets  is now actively looking to sell off some of those non-core holdings, he added. Its exploring ways to offload the InTime department store chain and other retail operations, Bloomberg News has reported.

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This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.
NEW DELHI : Actis Llps BluPine Energy, Singapores Sembcorp Industries Ltd, Edelweiss Infrastructure Yield Plus Funds Sekura Energy, Torrent Power and JSW Group are exploring to buy Brookfield Renewables 1.6 gigawatt (GW) portfolio in India, two people aware of the development said. The deal is expected to have an equity value of around $800 million.

JP Morgan is running the sale process for the 1.6 GW capacity, of which 1 GW is operational, while the balance 600 MW is under execution. Canadas Brookfield Asset Management Inc. is a major investor in Indias green energy space. Its Brookfield Global Transition Fund (BGTF) has committed to invest $1 billion in Avaada Ventures Pvt. Ltd. Also, Brookfield Renewable last year acquired a controlling stake in rooftop solar power producer CleanMax Enviro Energy Solutions Pvt. Ltd for $360 million. Brookfield Asset Management has also signed an agreement with Mukesh Ambani promoted Reliance Industries Ltd to explore opportunities to manufacture renewable energy and decarbonization equipment in Australia.

The non-binding offers (NBOs) are expected to be submitted shortly," said one of the two people cited above on the condition of anonymity.

Spokespersons for Brookfield Asset Management Inc., JP Morgan, Actis, Edelweiss Alternatives and JSW Energy declined comment. Queries emailed to the spokespersons of Torrent Power and Sembcorp Industries Ltd on Thursday evening remained unanswered till press time.

Brookfield, which has over $900 billion in assets under management worldwide, has invested $25 billion in India. The Brookfield Renewable portfolio comprises an installed capacity of around 33 GW across hydroelectric, wind, utility-scale solar, storage and green energy sources.

The Economic Times on 1 February reported about Brookfield looking to sell 1.6 GW clean energy assets and hiring JP Morgan for the process.

The green energy firms interested in Brookfield assets have been active in Indias green energy transition space given the opportunities offered. Actis, which invests only in emerging markets, has so far committed $2.1 billion for India, and now has its third clean energy firm Blupine Energy in the space, after selling Sprng Energy and Ostro Energy to Shell Plc. and ReNew Power Ventures respectively. With $800 million from Actis Energy Fund 5, BluPine Energy is developing grid-connected solar and wind power parks, besides commercial and industrial projects with plans to develop 4GW portfolio in India.

Edelweiss Infrastructure Yield Plus Funds Sekura Energy is also active in the sector, and is the front runner to buy solar projects totalling 350 megawatts (MW) from O2 Power, promoted by Singapores Temasek and European alternative asset manager EQT, in a deal having an equity and enterprise value of $50 million and $200 million, as reported by Mint earlier. Edelweiss Infrastructure Yield Plus, the alternative investment fund managed by Edelweiss Alternatives invests in operating assets across sectors, including roads, renewables and transmission. It has been active in green energy, and in 2021 acquired 74% stake in the solar portfolio of the Engie Group in India with 813 MW of operating capacity. It is also interested in Macquarie Groups sale of 400 MW solar power projects of its Stride platform with the potential deal having an equity value of around $300 million.

Sembcorp Ltd is also in talks with ReNew Energy Global Plc to buy solar energy projects totalling 350 MW, with the deal estimated at around $241 million at the enterprise level and around $121 million in equity. This comes after the earlier proposed deal totalling 1.1 GW of ReNews solar and wind power assets of 350 MW and 750MW, respectively couldnt be agreed upon to due to a valuation mismatch on wind assets. Ahmedabad-based Torrent Power had also earlier submitted a NBO for ReNews solar and wind power assets totalling 1.1 GW.

India has an installed renewable energy capacity of 180.79 GW, including 73.31 GW solar and 44.73 GW of wind power capacity. The governments objective is to add 50 GW of green energy capacity annually to reach 500 GW renewable capacity by 2030.

Also, Indias updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change (UNFCCC), have committed to achieve 50% of installed power generation capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy sources by 2030.

This in turn is attracting investors, with the country getting $6.13 billion foreign direct investment in the renewable energy sector from April 2020 till September 2023, according to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
Paytm s parent company One97 Communications Ltd is likely to sign HDFC Bank as the third partner for migrating merchants, said a report by Moneycontrol on Wednesday.

Axis Bank and Yes Bank have already been signed by Paytm as merchant acquiring partners. Both the banks went live on the Paytm UPI platform on March 15.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had asked Paytm Payments Bank Limited (PPBL) to stop all banking operations from March 15.

ALSO READ: BharatPe sees 77% surge in business amidst Paytm's payments bank troubles

However, the RBI has allowed OCL merchants and UPI users to continue using their handles, QR codes, and point-of-sale (PoS) machines even after March 15 to avoid any disruption to merchant and consumer payments.

The digital payments company is also in talks with Canara Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank for merchant acquisition business, said the report.

According to the report, HDFC Bank and SBI are likely to go live this week as payment service provider (PSP) banks for Paytms third party application provider (TPAP) business.

Citing a banking source, the report said: Yes Bank has taken ownership of the maintenance of PPBLs PSP banking services."

ALSO READ: Can Paytms relief rally continue?

The One97 Communications platform has an estimated 3 crore merchants and an estimated 9 crore UPI users.

According to National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) website, Paytm will work as a third-party app (TPAP) and facilitate UPI transactions through the partner banks. It has got five handles in partnership with four banks to continue UPI transactions.

The company's existing handle @paytm is among the five handles that users can continue using without the need to make any changes at their end.

The NPCI has approved @paytm and a closed user group UPI handle @ptyes for Paytm in partnership with Yes Bank.

It has also approved @pthdfc with HDFC bank and @ptsbi with State Bank of India as a partner. However, these two handles are not active yet.

CANARA BANK More Information

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MUMBAI : Automobile portal CarDekho is navigating a new round of funding that is likely to raise its valuation marginally, as it steers towards a public listing over the next 18-24 months, according to three people aware of the development.

The company is in talks with investors to raise $100-150 million in a largely secondary round where early investors will clock in full or partial exits, the people said. The company has hired homegrown investment bank The Rainmaker Group to help it with the process, the people added.

The round is largely secondary as some early investors want to cash out and the promoters want to realign the cap-table ahead of the public listing," the first person said on the condition of anonymity. The company is now being valued at around $1.3 billion."

This is a shade higher than the $1.2 billion it was last valued at in October 2021 when it raised $250 million in a mix of primary and secondary funding round. In that round, investors led by Leapfrog Investments, alongside Canyon Partners, Mirae Asset, Harbor Spring Capital and existing investors Sequoia Capital India and Sunley House invested in CarDekho.

However, the company may also raise some primary capital as part of the current round depending on investor interest", the second person said, also on the condition of anonymity.

According to the people, CarDekho, owned by Girnar Software, has seen significant investor interest after it focused on stronger unit economics and swung into the black, with an Ebitda (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) margin of around 8-10% for the three quarters ending 31 December 2023.

Spokespersons for CarDekho Group and The Rainmaker Group did not respond to Mints queries till press time.

Founded in 2008 by siblings Amit Jain and Anurag Jain, CarDekho started off by selling used vehicles on its platform, but pivoted to financing of vehicles (the reselling business has been brought down to near-zero in 2023-24). The company has invested $100 million in its fintech subsidiary Rupyy to scale up the NBFC business.

The group also forayed into insurance with another subsidiary, InsuranceDekho. According to industry sources, the company currently has more than 14,000 dealers registered with it across 1,500 locations and disburses more than $1.5 billion in loans annually.

In FY23, the companys used-vehicle marketplace saw a 46% jump in its consolidated revenues to 2,331 crore from 1,600 crore in 2021-22. The company has seen a 40-50% growth in 2023-24," the third person said.

Jaipur-based CarDekho is also aggressively looking to buy other companies to bolster its bouquet of offerings. In December 2023, it acquired shared mobility startup Revv.

The company has more than $100 million cash on its balance sheet and will use it opportunistically to grow inorganically," the third person added.

The company competes with peers such as listed firm CarTrade, Spinny and Cars24.
As the Chinese proverb almost says, a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single white paper. That, at least, is how a lot of EU policy is made. On January 24th the European Commission published a series of such papers and proposals on how to monitor and restrict exports of sensitive technology and investment in these sectors abroad (read: China). It also presented legislation on screening investment by foreign firms in Europe.

Those hoping for sweeping change will be disappointed. The package is a lot less ambitious than an outline strategy published last June had suggested. And it hardly matches Americas punchiness or a joint statement by President Joe Biden and Ursula von der Leyen, the commission president, in March 2023, which envisaged the EU and America working hand-in-hand. That is perhaps because doing things bluntly and expensively, American-style, may be the wrong yardstick for the EU. It might be more realistic for it to emulate Japans carefully thought-through approach.

The first step is to understand where Europes true strategic interests lie. For a while the EU was simply dragged into American efforts to counter China. The Netherlands had the most forceful such experience, after America leaned heavily on it to ban exports of advanced lithography machines by ASML, a Dutch tech company. Each EU country is now reviewing its own vulnerabilities. That is a start.

But EU countries have quickly discovered how hard that is. Many member states are simply too small to have the analytical capabilities to do it thoroughly. On Russian sanctions, we voted with the Germans in the hope that they had done the analysis," says the representative of one midsized member state. The various risk assessments that the commission in October recommended that member states conduct are still going on. In February the commission plans to report on security risks for the most critical four tech industries: advanced semiconductors, AI, quantum computing and biotech. Reports on other risksthe resilience of supply chains, the safety of critical infrastructure, and exposure to economic coercionand more sectors, such as energy technologies and advanced materials, will follow.

Once those are all done, the next step is to find common ground among 27 countries with very different views. Autocratic Hungary is increasingly siding with Russia and China inside the bloc. Large member states have little trust in the commission itself. In contrast, Japans strength in economic security lies in unity of purpose, argues Mathieu Duchatel of the Institut Montaigne, a Paris think-tank.

To find more Japan-style unity, the commission wants the question of economic security to be moved to a higher political level. Take its new white paper on export controls. The commission wants to set up a high-level political co-ordination group to agree on the next steps. In 2021 Japan went a step further, raising export controls to a ministerial level by creating a cabinet minister for economic security. What we really need in Europe is a Barnier of economic security," says Tobias Gehrke of the European Council on Foreign Relations, a think-tank. That refers to Michel Barnier, the French politician who negotiated Brexit on behalf of the EU member states. But so far, the members are unwilling to pool that much sovereignty.

In part, that is because such work requires a ton of sensitive economic data that countries are unwilling to share. The EU institutions hold little of it, and national business ministries are as used to competing against one another as they are to co-operating, say insiders. In Japan, by contrast, information flows between companies and the government are a constant feature, both formally and informally. At METI, Japans ministry of trade and industry, staff really understand the companies they are working with, say observers.

How far the intermingling between state and firms will go in Europe is uncertain. Japan is actively taking stakes in strategically important firms and delisting them from stock markets; an example is JSR, a materials firm that supplies semiconductor producers. Such an approach would remain a last resort in the EU.

A farsighted example

Japan has also identified goods that are essential to the survival of its people, such as medical supplies, and pays firms that are willing to diversify their imports. A key part of its strategy, so far underdeveloped in Europe, is to make itself indispensable to the world, which requires limited industrial policy aimed at a few key high-tech sectors, analysts argue.

Europe also needs to make faster progress on diversification through trade agreements. Japan is party to a multitude of recent free-trade agreements, which cover more than 80% of its trade. The countrys exports to China have not grown as much as, say, Germanys (see chart). The EU has made some progress on trade talks, but its agreement with Mercosur in South America is still not ratified, and big deals with India and Indonesia are stuck.

View Full Image (Chart: The Economist)

Maybe the comparison with Japan is unfair. We have had early experience with economic coercion and understand the difficulties," says Kazuto Suzuki from the Institute of Geoeconomics in Tokyo. Japan did economic security before it became a buzzword." Europe has to catch up, one white paper at a time.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved.

From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
The containership crash that downed a Baltimore bridge Tuesday stands to snarl shipping along the East Coast for months.

Officials say the bridge collapse could affect port operations for a long time, forcing other ports in the region to take on extra shipments. Companies that transport cars and coal, two of the important categories of cargo that run through Baltimore, already are looking for alternative destinations.

Those pressures are likely to intensify the longer port traffic is slowed, but for how long wasnt clear. We dont have an estimate on timeline as of yet," Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said Tuesday. Our focus really is right now making sure were saving lives."

Here are the areas most likely to be affected.

Shipping

The Francis Scott Key Bridge crossed the Patapsco River that leads into the Port of Baltimore. Officials have suspended all vessel traffic until further notice.

The Baltimore port is a key entry point to the U.S. market for imported cars and farm equipment, as well as Americas second-largest hub for exporting coal to be sold abroad.

Though it is a top-10 U.S. port by container volumes, it processes far fewer containers than other East Coast ports including the Port of New York and New Jersey. Much of the boxship traffic that was headed to Baltimore is likely to go there.

Coal

Any disruptions could hit global coal markets especially hard.

Traders exported about 22.9 million metric tons of the commodity from Baltimore last year, according to ship-tracking firm Kpler, sending much of the heat- and power-generation fuel to buyers in India, China and Europe. The total represented more than 27% of all U.S. seaborne coal exports.

The Pennsylvania coal producer Consol Energy and rail operator CSX operate export terminals at the port. The share prices of both firms fell Tuesday.

Consol said in a statement that it is working with authorities to restore operations at its facility. However, at this moment, we do not have a definitive timeline of when vessel access or normal operations will resume," the company said.

Companies could divert some shipments to the larger coal-exporting hub of Norfolk, Va., said John Kartsonas, managing partner at Breakwave Advisors, a commodities shipping consulting firm and trader behind two shipping exchange-traded funds. But finding railcars and dockside storage on short notice could pose problems, especially given ample stockpiles and low prices for coal.

I dont think anyone is going to take the cost to rail it somewhere else," Kartsonas said.

Sugar

While coal is the major commodity shipped out of the port, raw sugar is a significant import. The Domino Sugar refinery there is one of the largest in the U.S., producing up to 6 million pounds of refined sugar daily.

It appears unlikely, though, that operations in the sugar industry will be disrupted. Owner ASR Group said the plant has six to eight weeks of raw sugar stockpiled after two ships were unloaded this week, and that it expects no short-term disruptions to its operations. If the port is blocked for an extended period, the company can tap in to stockpiles of refined sugar at its other U.S. refineries and warehouses, a spokeswoman said.

Raw sugar, which is shipped in smaller ships, also could be unloaded at other ports and shipped to the refinery by rail, said Kartsonas, the commodity shipping consultant.

Vehicles

The goods that pass through Baltimore tend to be specialized, like larger vehicles that require special handling, said Johns Hopkins University business professor Tinglong Dai.

The port administration says Baltimore is the biggest port on the East Coast for handling Ro-Ro," short for roll-on-roll-off cargoes of autos, trucks, tractors and wheeled cranes. It is the largest port in the U.S. for specialized cargo like trucks, tractors and trailers.

The shipping fallout from Tuesdays accident is likely to be much milder than impacts from a series of shocks in recent years, from pandemic-era backups to war and drought. Still, Dai said, the bridge collapse is in the short term a very big disruption."

Muni bonds

Prices remained largely stable Tuesday on bonds issued by the Maryland Transportation Authority, according to trade data from the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board. The state agency, known as the MDTA, owns and operates the Key Bridge and collects tolls.

The steady bond prices were likely because the MDTA has multiple revenue sources. That includes tolls on the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel and the Fort McHenry Tunnel, two other main routes for drivers crossing Baltimore Harbor, analysts said. Also, price moves can be slow for municipal bonds since they can go weeks or months without trading.

Moodys Ratings analyst Cintia Nazima said the Key Bridge accounted for approximately 7% of the authoritys $755 million in toll revenue in 2023.

Long-term rebuild

On Tuesday, Moore said it would take a long term build" to replace the Key Bridge. Exactly how long that might take is hard to predict.

Last summer, a portion of Interstate 95 in Philadelphia was destroyed after a tractor-trailer shipping gasoline crashed and caught fire. Officials initially said they expected it would take months to reopen. Work crews wrapped up demolition in four days and crews then constructed an interim roadway. The highway reopened less than two weeks later.

It seems like this is going to be a different undertaking just because the span is so much longer," said Matti Siemiatycki, director of the Infrastructure Institute at the University of Toronto. The Key Bridge itself spans 1.6 miles.

Siemiatycki said rebuilding the Baltimore bridge likely would more comparable to the four-lane bridge in the Italian city of Genoa that collapsed in 2018. A new bridge on the stretch of highway connecting the port city to France opened two years after the collapse.

Heather Gillers and Sam Goldfarb contributed to this article.

Write to David Uberti at david.uberti@wsj.com, Harriet Torry at harriet.torry@wsj.com and Ryan Dezember at ryan.dezember@wsj.com
Amid growing instances of attacks on Indian students in the US, there has been a debate about other study destinations where students from India can go for their higher studies.

Recently, the video of an Indian student from Hyderabad went viral, where he was seen bleeding profusely. He was beaten and robbed in the US. In the wake of the deaths of Indian students in the US, some Indian students were reportedly scared to travel alone.

Following this, US President Joe Biden said that the US administration is working very hard to curb such attacks against international students from India.

There is no denying the fact that the US  along with Canada and the UK  continues to be one of the most sought-after study destinations among Indian students for their higher studies including bachelors and masters programmes.

The number of international students from India to the US rose by 35 per cent, leading to an all-time high of 268,923 in 2022-23, according to Open Doors Report (ODR). Indian students comprise over 25 per cent of more than one million foreign students in the USA.

Here, we present an estimate of the cost involved in studying abroad at an American university.

Essentially, the cost has two parts: one is the tuition fee and the second is the living cost.

The tuition fee, as one would expect, entails the majority of the cost which depends on the course you plan to undertake.

The course fee varies widely based on which university you have opted for. For instance, a less reputable or a state university costs less whereas the top private universities charge a far higher fee.

Management education

A management degree is among the most sought-after qualifications in American universities. This can burn a hole in your pocket but since this is a highly employable qualification and drastically raises your employability, students do not mind spending a whopping sum to earn a management degree from an American university.

Again, the fee varies from university to university. An MBA at Harvard costs $1,15,000 (around 92 lakh per year when US$ equals 80) i.e., around 1.8 crore for the two-year course.

But if you go to a state university, say Arizona State University, the total fee is $107,923 i.e., around 86.33 lakh.

Graduate degree

As mentioned above, the course fee varies widely based on which academic institution you have zeroed in on. For instance, an MS in computer science at the University of Chicago would make you poorer by anywhere between $59,337 and $79,116 (i.e., between 47 lakh and 63 lakh).

On the other hand, Kent State University charges around $20,000 per year as the tuition fee, which is equivalent to only 16 lakh in Indian currency.

Living Expenses

Generally, living expenses in US for an international student range between $12,000 to $20,000 per year if you live modestly. A small room rent only costs somewhere around $500-700 per month. Then you add another $500-600 for transport and food. So, this sums up to $1,000-$1,300 per month. But this is a rough estimate.

The actual cost may differ widely based on the quality of life and the city you live in.

F-1 visa (academic student) proof of funds: One also needs to show funds in the account of your parents or even your blood relative. If its the blood relative, you need to show the relation. The relatives include grandparents, aunts and uncles. One can also include more than one sponsor to show the funds.

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The Biden administration will enlarge a list of companies under an import ban because of their alleged ties to forced labor in China, an official said, a move that would intensify pressure on some corporate supply chains.

Many more companies will be added to what is known as the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act Entity List, Laura Murphy, a Department of Homeland Security policy adviser, said on Tuesday. The list catalogs companies and state enterprises the U.S. alleges are involved in the exploitation of forced labor from Chinas Xinjiang region.

Were really focused on enhancing and expanding the entity list. We expect many more entities to be coming in the next few months," Murphy said at a panel discussion for an audience of trade professionals in Philadelphia.

Under the UFLPA, the U.S. has since June 2022 barred most imports with links to Xinjiang, home to the countrys Uyghur people and other minority groups the U.S. says are being pressed into involuntary labor. China denies those claims and considers the scrutiny on Xinjiang unwelcome interference in its internal affairs.

UFLPA enforcement has already led to $2.9 billion in shipments being blocked at the bordermostly electronics and apparelthough some importers have been able to argue for the goods release. Lawmakers in both parties have nonetheless sought to intensify the crackdown.

Though the general UFLPA ban is always in force, the laws entity list designates specific companies whose goods are blocked from entry stateside, including when they are part of another companys finished product. The list currently has 30 companies on it. Murphy didnt say exactly how many more would be added.

Administration officials have repeatedly urged companies to vet their supply chains or face problems. Volkswagen, for example, last month said thousands of its Bentley, Porsche and Audi vehicles had been impounded at U.S. ports because a part was made by a supplier on the entity list.

The Biden administration tapped Murphy about five months ago for an advisory role, a possible signal of its willingness to pursue tough measures. Murphy is on leave from her position as professor of human rights and contemporary slavery at the U.K.s Sheffield Hallam University and has frequently reported on issues in corporate supply chains in sectors such as solar panels and car manufacturing.

Businesses should work quickly to ensure their supply chains dont involve the use of forced labor, she said.

Were going to put companies on the entity list. Were working, but you shouldnt be waiting for that," she said. There are ways for you to get ahead of that."

Write to Richard Vanderford at Richard.Vanderford@wsj.com
New Delhi: The federal indirect tax body is unlikely to make any changes to the 28% goods and services tax (GST) regime on online money gaming until the Supreme Court gives its final order on a bunch of tax disputes for the period prior to its introduction last October, a person informed about the development said.

As per the decisions of the 51st GST Council meeting last August, ministers were to review the implementation of the tax regime for the online gaming industry after six months of its implementation. This period ends in March but, given that a model code of conduct is now in place in view of the Lok Sabha elections, this review can only happen after the polls. However, a review does not necessarily mean tweaks to the tax regime.

No further change can be made to the tax regime for online money gaming as the matter is sub-judice. One has to wait for the Supreme Courts views on the matter," said the person who is informed about the current thinking among central and state policy makers. The review was sought by smaller states like Goa and Sikkim.

Experts said that the interim period till the apex court ruling comes will be crucial for gaming companies.

Online gaming companies may face hardships during the interim period till the time they get some relief or stay from either the Supreme Court or the jurisdictional High Court. The moot point before the courts remains on valuation of these services and a ruling on this issue would decide the fate of operation of these companies in India," said Abhishek Rastogi, founder of law firm Rastogi Chambers, who is arguing for the petitioners.

Online gaming firms opposed the 28% GST on the full value of amounts deposited by players for betting, saying it would burden the sector, discourage investments and impact the startup ecosystem. They were earlier paying 18% on platform fees ranging from 5% to 20% of the full face value of bets.

The new regime makes a clear distinction between casual online games and those involving a wager. Only actionable claims offered by online money games are subject to the 28% tax on full value of deposits made to the platform. Online money games are those in which the player deposits an amount in the expectation of winning some amount in a game or event.

Online gaming companies were served 71 GST- related show cause notices in FY23 and in the current financial year upto October, minister of state for finance Pankaj Chaudhary told the Rajya Sabha on 5 December. These notices were for an amount of 1.12 trillion.

The apex court had in September stayed a favourable order a gaming company had received from the Karnataka High Court on the 28% GST. Further hearings on this issue are now expected once the court resumes sittings after its summer break in July.

Emails sent to the finance ministry and to GST Council on Tuesday and to online gaming company Gameskraft Technologies Pvt. Ltd. on Wednesday seeking comments for the story remained unanswered at the time of publishing.
As financial year 2024 (FY24) draws to a close, the Indian stock market stands on solid ground, with a significant number of stocks achieving their all-time highs. This trend has resulted in handsome rewards for shareholders across the board.

Indian stocks remained hot picks among institutional investors due to the country's macroeconomic stability and earnings momentum.

Notably, mid-small and PSU stocks have emerged as standout performers in FY24, generating wealth for investors by up to five times. Concurrently, the Indian primary market has witnessed a surge in activity as companies seize the bullish market conditions to raise funds.

IPO Review: 25 companies hit Dalal Street in March with two more set to list

The large-cap space has also performed well in FY24, with a handful of stocks delivering multibagger returns. The benchmark index, Nifty 50, which represents the countrys top 50 blue-chip companies across various sectors, has soared 30% in FY24 so far. It ended 9 out of the last 11 months in the green.

With the index already showing a 1% increase this month, it is poised to end on a positive note. Looking at the monthly performance, the index recorded a substantial gain of 7.94% in December, marking its best December performance in the last two decades.

Also Read: Nifty 50, other indices rejig: Shriram Finance, HDFC Bank to see highest inflows

New milestones

Nifty 50 has notched several record highs this financial year, surpassing 19,000 in June and reaching 20,000 and 21,000 levels in September and December, respectively. Further in January, it touched the 22,000 mark. Recently, on March 07, it recorded a new lifetime high of 22,525 points.

Remarkably, in December, the market capitalisation of Indian listed companies on the NSE reached a significant milestone, crossing $4 trillion ( 334.72 trillion) for the first time.

This remarkable performance can be attributed to robust retail participation and strong foreign portfolio investor (FPI) inflows, along with buoyant economic growth, healthy corporate earnings, and the anticipation of continued political stability in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

India outlook

International brokerage houses have upheld their optimistic perspective on India, revising their GDP projections upward. Jefferies, for instance, foresees India ascending to become the world's third-largest economy by 2030, outpacing both Japan and Germany. It also projected that the market capitalisation of the Indian equity market would reach $10 trillion by 2030.

Global rating agency Moody's earlier this month raised India's growth forecast for the 2024 calendar year to 6.8% and said that the country will remain the fastest growing among G20 countries.

Also Read: India's FY25 growth outlook looks bright, core inflation on downtrend, says FinMin: 5 key highlights

Concurrently, multinational corporations are progressively relocating their manufacturing operations to India. With its vast scale and potential, India emerges as a compelling alternative to China for global businesses seeking to expand their manufacturing footprint.

Amid this backdrop, India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) signed a historic free trade agreement (FTA). Major economies are seeking to diversify their supply chains, reducing reliance on China and looking to India as an alternative.

5 Nifty 50 stocks delivered multibagger returns

During this bullish phase, an impressive 47 out of 50 stocks in the Nifty 50 index have surged by over 25%, with 5 of them delivering multibagger returns. Notably, three of these high-performing stocks belong to the auto sector, benefiting from strong sales and decreased raw material costs, which have bolstered their gross margins.

Also Read: Tata Motors vs M&M: Which auto major should you pick for the long term?

Bajaj Auto leads the pack in the Nifty 50 index with a remarkable return of 141% so far in FY24, closely followed by Tata Motors with a gain of 138%. Adani Ports and SEZ secured the third position with a rally of 110%, while Coal India claimed the fourth spot with a gain of 109%. Hero MotoCorp, the world's largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has seen its stock surge by 101% in FY24 so far.

Other stocks such as NTPC, Adani Enterprises, ONGC, BPCL, L&T, Cipla, Sun Pharmaceutical, M&M, Power Grid Corporation, Bharti Airtel, Tata Consumer Products, Maruti Suzuki India, IndusInd Bank, Tata Steel, HCL Technologies, Titan Company, State Bank of India, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise, Hindalco Industries, Grasim Industries, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Eicher Motors, Nestle India, and Reliance Industries all yielded returns between 35% and 90% in FY24 so far.

Disclaimer: We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.

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The financial year 2024 (FY24) was a great year for initial public offerings (IPOs) with 75 issues launched in the year, the highest in 2 years. The strong demand for equities, propelled by the increasing number of domestic investors, laid the foundation for heightened activity in the primary market.

Throughout the year, some of the most anticipated IPOs, such as Tata Technologies, IREDA, JSW Infra, and Cello World, among others, made their debut in the primary markets. Most IPOs this year garnered substantial subscriptions and witnessed positive movements on their listing days.

Moreover, equity fundraising through IPOs, as well, witnessed a notable 20 percent increase in FY24. A total of 75 firms raised 61,915 crore through main board IPOs during this period, up significantly from the 52,116 crore raised by 37 IPOs in the previous fiscal year 2022-23.

IPO performance

Over 50 of the 75 IPOs are currently trading above the issue price with an average return of 65 percent. 5 of these 75 IPOs have soared over 150 percent from their issue prices.

With a robust financial performance post listing, IREDA has generated over 4x returns over the issue price, showcasing its strong momentum in spearheading the renewable energy boom in the country through financing. Following closely behind are Signature Global, up 244 percent and Netweb Technologies, up 200 percent. Meanwhile, Cyient DLM has also jumped 160 percent whereas Motisons Jewellers has rallied over 150 percent. Azad Engineering and Senco Gold are some other IPOs that have also given multibagger returns.

The highly anticipated Tata Technologies, which marked a significant return of the Tata Group to the IPO market after almost two decades, has proven to be a success story. The stock is presently trading at an impressive 106 percent above its issue price.

Read here: BSE releases list of 25 stocks available for T+0 settlement from March 28

However, amidst the enthusiastic investor sentiment and a thriving primary market, the fiscal year also witnessed some companies struggling to meet public expectations post listing. Among the notable underperformers are HMA Agro Industries, trading a substantial 91 percent below its issue price, followed by Credo Brands Marketing, down 36 percent, Muthoot Microfin, down 32 percent and Epack Durables, down 30 percent.

Other important facts

> In the realm of mainboard IPOs, Mankind Pharma emerged as the largest player, raising 4,326 crore, closely followed by JSW Infrastructure with 2,800 crore.

> On the other end of the spectrum, Plaza Wires conducted the smallest IPO, securing 71 crore.

> Notably, the average deal size experienced a significant reduction from 1,409 crore in FY23 to 815 crore in FY24.

> Out of the 75 IPOs, 54 IPOs were subscribed more than 10 times, with 22 of them witnessing subscriptions exceeding 50 times.

> The average number of retail applications surged to 13 lakh , marking a substantial increase from approximately 6 lakh in the previous fiscal year.

> The Tata Technologies IPO attracted the highest number of retail applications, totaling 52 lakh, trailed by DOMS Industries with 41 lakh applications, and INOX India with 37 lakh bids.

> The average listing gains experienced a notable increase to 29 percent in FY24, compared to 9 percent in the preceding financial year.

> Out of the 75 IPOs, 48 yielded returns exceeding 10 percent. Notably, Vibhor Steel achieved the most significant day-one pop, soaring by 193 percent, closely followed by BLS E-Services with a remarkable 175 percent increase, and Tata Technologies with an impressive 163 percent surge.

> During FY24, a total of 96 companies submitted their offer documents to the market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), representing an increase from 75 companies in the previous financial year.

Outlook

Experts believe that the robust momentum witnessed in the primary market is expected to continue into the next financial year. Even with the elections slated ahead, the strong IPO trend is likely to be maintained.

Trivesh D, COO, Tradejini, noted that the current IPO trend is not indicating a slowdown, with IPOs worth approximately 60,000 crore lined up in 2024. Also, the upcoming elections could potentially boost market sentiment and IPO activity if the outcome is favourable, he added.

"Given the favourable macroeconomic conditions, including the expected GDP growth and Indias manufacturing story, I feel retail investors should not miss out on the opportunity of these IPOs but be selective and cautious in their approach. It is also important to note that IPOs are not the only way to enter the market, and FOMO usually takes the better, of rational investment decision-making and leads to regret later. Retail investors, investing their hard-earned money need to be confident of the Company and its fundamentals which should act as the base of their decision-making and not other factors such as grey market premium and FOMO-driven stocks," the expert advised.

Meanwhile, global brokerage house Jefferies also sees the strong IPO trend continuing. According to Jefferies, the timing seems favorable for global multinational companies to contemplate listing in India. As an example, Hyundai India, which has been established for nearly three decades, recently disclosed its plans for listing in India. This move could potentially set the stage for numerous other multinational companies with significant market shares in India that are yet to be listed in the Indian market.

It further pointed out that over the past decade, India's Internet economy has fostered over 100 unicorns, establishing itself as the world's third-largest unicorn hub, following the US and China. Successful listings of startups such as Zomato, Nykaa, PBFintech, EaseMyTrip, InfoEdge, and Honasa Consumers exemplify this trend. Additionally, Flipkart, Swiggy, Ola Electric, and PhonePe are anticipated to join the list soon. Moreover, the demerger of Reliance Jio and Reliance Retail from Reliance Industries is poised to unlock significant value, offering further investment opportunities.

Disclaimer: The views and recommendations made above are those of individual analysts or broking companies, and not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before taking any investment decision.

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Stocks to buy: A day after falling about half a per cent, Indian stock market benchmark Nifty 50 rose by nearly 1 per cent in intraday trade on Wednesday, March 27. Investors bought quality stocks across sectors that are available at reasonable valuations as the medium-to-long-term outlook of the market remains positive.

"Robust economic outlook, anticipated political stability and massive entry of new investors augur well for the markets in the medium to long term," said G. Chokkalingam, founder and head of research at Equinomics Research Private Limited.

Experts suggest buying quality stocks at the current juncture. Based on the recommendations of brokerage firms Nuvama Wealth Management and JM Financial, here are five stocks that can give healthy double-digit returns in the next one year. Take a look:

Brokerage firm: Nuvama Wealth Management

InterGlobe Aviation (IndiGo) | Last traded price (LTP):  3,492.05 | Target price:  3,953 | Upside potential: 13%

Nuvama raised FY25E and FY26E EBITDAR (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortisation, and restructuring or rent costs) by 1 per cent and 3 per cent, respectively, and increased the target price by 5 per cent to 3,953 from 3,774 earlier.

According to the brokerage firm, a likely duopolistic industry structure dominated by IndiGo and Air India bodes well for the company. This is expected to spur pricing discipline which in turn may drive yields up over the long term.

"Aggressive capacity addition and robust demand should drive PAX (the number of passengers carried by an airline) growth," Nuvama said.

Also Read: Nifty 50, other indices rejig tomorrow: Shriram Finance, HDFC Bank, Jio Finance, Adani Power to see highest inflows

Nuvama pointed out that during FY1014, JSPL recorded an average EBITDA/t of 14,900, courtesy of captive thermal coal. Post-de-allocation of coal mines, its earnings got hit and it posted an average EBITDA/t of nearly 11,000 over FY1521.

The brokerage firm expects with the resumption of captive coal mines and other cost-saving and value-additive facilities, JSPL may sustain EBITDA/t of 15,000-plus FY25 onwards despite no improvement in steel prices.

"The 19 per cent steel volume CAGR, improvement in product mix with the commissioning of HSM (hot strip mills), and benefits of captive coal and pellets along with a slurry pipeline/conveyor belt would aid EBITDA CAGR of 31 per cent over FY2426E," said Nuvama.

Also Read: Stocks to buy: Mahanagar Gas, Va Tech Wabag, Aditya Birla Sun Life, among six fundamental stock picks by HDFC Securities

Brokerage firm: JM Financial

PG Electroplast | LTP:  1,584 | Target price:  2,430 | Upside potential: 53%

The brokerage firm has initiated coverage on PG Electroplast with a buy recommendation.

"Our target PE (price-to-earnings ratio) multiple is 27 on FY26E (Amber currently trades at PE of 31 times on FY26E). Over the next two to three years, we expect PG Electroplast to gain market share in ACs (air conditioning) and WMs (washing machines). Also, with entry into new categories (like LED TVs + laptops + computers + electronic manufacturing service), PG Electroplast is seeing higher earnings growth with improved balance sheet and return ratios," said JM Financial.

The brokerage firm expects earnings CAGR of 41 per cent, with an improved asset turnover-return ratio (RoE), to improve to nearly 16.3 per cent in FY26E from 12 per cent in FY22.

"With strong profitable growth, we expect a re-rating of the stock," said JM Financial.

Also Read: Multibagger Stock: Skipper stock generates 290% return in a year, soars nearly 1800% in 4 years

Adani Ports and SEZ | LTP:  1,304.20 | Target price:  1,460 | Upside potential: 12%

JM Financial underscored that Adani Ports and SEZ announced the acquisition of a 95 per cent stake in Gopalpur Port (GPL) at an EV (enterprise value) of 30.8 billion -13 times FY24 EV/EBITDA; 10 times FY25 EV/EBITDA.

"GPL is a bulk port, located on the East coast of India with 20mntpa handling capacity, 30-year concession (extendable up to 2056) and over 500 acres of leased land parcel. Given Adani Ports' expertise in ramping up volume and improving EBITDA margins through cost/operational efficiencies and de-bottlenecking, we believe GPL will be a value-accretive acquisition for the company," said JM Financial.

"GPL acquisition, though a small one (less than 3 per cent of Adani Ports consolidated volumes), will be the sixth port on the east coast (Dhamra, Gangavaram, Krishnapatnam, Kattupalli and Ennore) and will further deepen its reach in the long term. We bake in GPL acquisition in estimate with revised March 2025 target price of 1,460 from 1,430 earlier," said the brokerage firm.

Also Read: Stocks to Buy -Maruti Suzuki , JSW Energy among 4 weekly technical stock picks by Axis Securities

KPIT Technologies | LTP:  1,428.50 | Target price:  1,860 | Upside potential: 30%

JM Financial highlighted that KPIT Tech has corrected nearly 10 per cent over the past one month. Investors seem concerned about the impact of the global EV (electric vehicle) slowdown on downstream services that KPIT offers. The pessimism is misplaced.

"The 'softwarization' of vehicles - where KPIT is focussed - is a parallel shift to electrification and hence investment cycles of the two need not be coupled. In fact, the same software could be used across different propulsion engines," said the brokerage firm.

"We estimate that e-Powertrain related work  which is correlated with EV demand - constitutes less than a third of KPITs revenues today. Besides, the volume shift from BEV (battery-electrified vehicles) to PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) should just supplant the work of one powertrain for another," said the brokerage firm.

JM Financial pointed out that KPIT is relatively insulated from a slowdown in tier-1 software spend, unlike some of its peers, given a higher share of OEMs in its revenue mix.

The brokerage firm believes a strong FY24 exit will position KPIT well to guide for 18-20 per cent FY25 constant currency revenue growth, the highest among peers. That should help valuation as well.

"The stock now trades at 1.7 times PEG (on a two-year rolling consensus EPS estimates), in line with its three-year mean PEG (post relisting), reasonable in our view," said JM Financial.

Read all market-related news here

Disclaimer: The views and recommendations above are those of individual analysts, experts and broking companies, not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.

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Ensuring the safety of your demat account is paramount in safeguarding your investments and financial assets. With the shift towards electronic trading and the digitisation of securities, demat accounts have become an integral part of the modern investor's toolkit.

One key part of keeping your demat account secure is choosing a strong password. One must select a unique and complex password for their demat account. Avoid using easily guessable passwords such as "password" or common phrases. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters to create a strong password.

But with the security of a unique password comes the potential challenge of misplacing or forgetting it. In such cases, it's essential to know the steps for password recovery. Here's what you should do.

Unlock your financial freedom Open Demat Account

If you forget your demat account password, you should follow these steps to reset it:

Contact Your Depository Participant (DP): Reach out to your Depository Participant (DP), which is typically your brokerage firm or bank, and inform them about the situation.

Provide Necessary Information: Your DP will likely require you to provide some identification and account details to verify your identity. This may include your PAN card, Aadhaar card, and other relevant documents.

Start your investing journey today Open Demat Account

Follow the DP's Instructions: Your DP will guide you through the process of resetting your password. This may involve filling out a password reset form or completing an online procedure through their website or platform.

Authenticate Your Identity: Once your identity is verified, your DP will initiate the password reset process. They may provide you with a temporary password or a link to reset your password securely.

Reset Your Password: Follow the instructions provided by your DP to reset your demat account password. Ensure that you choose a strong and memorable password to secure your account.

Update Your Records: After successfully resetting your password, make sure to update your records and store your new password securely. Avoid sharing your password with anyone and take necessary precautions to protect your account from unauthorised access in the future.

By following these steps and promptly reaching out to your DP, you can reset your demat account password and regain access to your account securely.

Let's also understand how to reset the password of a trading account

To reset the password of your trading account, you typically need to follow these steps:

Visit the Brokerage Firm's Website: Go to the official website of your brokerage firm or the trading platform you use.

Locate the Password Reset Option: Look for the "Forgot Password" or "Reset Password" option on the login page. This option is usually located near the login fields.

Enter Your Account Information: You'll be prompted to enter your account information, which may include your username, email address, or mobile number associated with your trading account.

Verify Your Identity: Depending on the brokerage firm's procedures, you may need to verify your identity through a one-time password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number or email address. Some brokers may require additional verification steps.

Reset Your Password: Once your identity is verified, you'll typically be directed to a page where you can reset your password. Follow the instructions provided, and choose a new password for your trading account.

Confirmation: After successfully resetting your password, you may receive a confirmation message on the website or via email/mobile notification.

Login with New Password: Use your new password to log in to your trading account. Ensure that you keep your password secure and avoid sharing it with anyone.

If you encounter any difficulties during the password reset process, you can reach out to your brokerage firm's customer support for assistance. They will guide you through the necessary steps to reset your password and regain access to your trading account.

FAQs

What should I do if I forget my demat account password?

If you forget your demat account password, you should follow the password recovery process provided by your brokerage firm or Depository Participant (DP). This typically involves verifying your identity through personal information or security questions and resetting your password.

How can I create a strong password for my demat account?

To create a strong password, use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information such as your name, birthdate, or common words. Additionally, refrain from using the same password for multiple accounts.

Is it safe to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for my demat account?

Yes, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your demat account by requiring a second form of verification, such as a one-time password (OTP) sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password. It is highly recommended to activate 2FA for enhanced account security.

What measures can I take to protect my demat account from unauthorised access?

To protect your demat account from unauthorised access, ensure that you keep your login credentials confidential and avoid sharing them with anyone. Regularly monitor your account activity and report any suspicious transactions or activity to your brokerage firm immediately. Additionally, update your password periodically and use security features such as biometric authentication if available.

What should I do if I suspect unauthorised activity in my demat account?

If you suspect unauthorised activity in your demat account, immediately contact your brokerage firm or DP to report the issue. They will assist you in securing your account, investigating the incident, and taking appropriate action to prevent further unauthorised access.

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Cassandra Davidson doesnt think so, though she was intrigued by the pizza-flavored hot cross buns sold by a local supermarket chain. Davidson cut them in half, put cheese and pizza-flavored crackers inside, as suggested on the package, and warmed them up on a sandwich press. She said it tasted like a grilled cheese, but the pizza flavoring didnt really come through. She didnt have another.

It was more of a bread roll that theyve just called a hot cross bun," said Davidson, a 32-year-old nurse. I dont know what makes it a hot cross bun. Maybe the fact that theyve just put the cross on the top."

The hot cross bun, historically made with fruit and spice, is getting a makeover in Australiawith bun-crazed bakeries and supermarkets trying to grab the spotlight with increasingly eccentric Easter creations. (Sauerkraut in your hot cross bun, anyone?)

But not everyone wants to do away with centuries of tradition.

We taste-tested novelty hot cross buns so you dont have to," blared one headline in the Sydney Morning Herald.

What better way to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ than with a special-edition novelty foodstuff?" chided another reviewer in the Weekend Australian Magazine, concluding the pizza buns were bloody awful."

Savory is a bit weird," said Adam Moore, 47, a culinary judge and chef. It just feels like I should be eating something sweet."

30 million buns

Bun varieties now being bandied about Australia range from super sweet to downright meaty. One hot cross bun has raspberry fudge, jellies, white chocolate and a sprinkle of coconut, and is based on a popular treat called an Iced VoVo.

Humble Bakery in Sydney is offering what it calls a Hot Cross Reu-Buna fruitless version filled with pastrami, horseradish cream, sauerkraut, pickles and Dijon mustard.

The origins of hot cross buns arent entirely clear, some scholars say. One theory suggests medieval monks marked them with the cross at Easter as a nod to the holidays religious significance. Many cultures use dried fruit and sweeteners in bread to mark important occasions.

The novelty buns have their fans. Helen Garkinis liked the Iced VoVo buns so much that at one point she had about 50 buns stashed in her freezer, with plans to share them with family. The raspberry cuts the sweetness, she said, and goes well with the white chocolate.

When I first heard they were released, I was like a bit of a crazy person," said Garkinis, 50, who went to six stores looking for them.

One of the biggest challenges was emulating the texture of crackers and biscuits in the form of a bun, said Thea Comino, a bakery-product developer at Coles, the grocery chain selling the pizza-flavored and Iced VoVo buns. For the pizza bun, based on a popular pizza-flavored cracker, soy grits were used atop the bun. Tomato granules were baked throughout the dough.

We knew it was going to generate some hype and interest," she said. But never did I think it would be this big."

Special-edition buns are already sold out in some stores. Coles and Woolworths, Australias other main supermarket chain, expect to sell a combined 30 million buns the week of Easterenough for each person in this country of about 27 million to have a bun, plus a bite.

St. Stephens, an Anglican church in a Sydney suburb, is advertising that hot cross buns will be available at one of its Good Friday serviceslikely the traditional ones, as well as a fruitless version.

Senior minister Prash Colombage isnt too bothered by the zany buns, as long as they have crosses on them. In fact, as a kid, Colombage said he didnt like the dried fruit and would try to pick them out of the buns.

If someone wants to provide us with their own stash of savory ones, well happily serve savory too," he said.

Risque buns

Other buns sold in Australia include some made with cheese and Vegemitethe yeasty spread that is a local favorite. There are buns filled with Biscoff biscuit spread, and buns made with chips of Cadbury Caramilk, which is a blend of caramelized white chocolate.

A sticky date" hot cross bun has dates and caramel fudge.

Its tough out there, it really is, cause everyones doing really cool buns," said Eddie Stewart, who co-owns Tokyo Lamington, a Japanese-Australian fusion bakery, with shops in Sydney and Melbourne.

One of his offerings this year is a hot cross bun infused with yuzu, an Asian citrus. Key to the recipe: soaking raisins in imported yuzu juice for three months with bits of candied lemon and orange zest.

The raisins are mixed in a cinnamon-bun doughbut bakers have to be careful not to smash the raisins because they are so full of juice. Once baked, the buns are brushed with a glaze made from caramelized sugar and yuzu juice.

Theyre not like super, super yuzu in your face," said Stewart, 38. You more get those floral tones and notes."

Stewart said he experimented with a bun with chocolate and miso, the fermented bean paste used often in Japanese cuisine. He said it tasted good with dark chocolate, but decided to hold off on selling that one for now.

The miso bun," he said, was a bit more risque."

Write to Mike Cherney at mike.cherney@wsj.com
In a major setback for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab, the party's Member of Parliament from Jalandhar Sushil Kumar Rinku and Jalandhar West MLA Sheetal Angural joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday in the national capital Delhi ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2024.

The Jalandhar MP accused the state AAP government of not supporting him in development works and also not fulfilling the promises made to the people of Jalandhar.

The MP said he joined the BJP for development of Punjab, especially Jalandhar.

He said he was impressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah and lauded the Union government for its development initiatives.

It is true that the promises I made to the people of Jalandhar were not fulfilled because my party (AAP) did not support me. I am impressed with the working style of PM Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah..." Sushil Kumar Rinku said after joining the saffron party.

Welcoming the AAP lone MP in the state, Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar said, Congress and AAP are two sides of the same coin. Sushil Rinku joined the party today...He is the only Lok Sabha MP of (AAP) and they (AAP) should be ashamed... "

Rinku, who was already announced as the AAP candidate from Jalandhar, was elected to the Lok Sabha by a margin of 58,691 votes in 2023 bypoll. He had quit the Congress to join AAP last year to fight the bypoll to the Jalandhar Lok Sabha seat.

The Arvind Kejriwal-led party had only one MP, Rinku in the outgoing Lok Sabha. The party, in power in Delhi and Punjab, has ten Rajya Sabha MPs, however.

Earlier on Tuesday, three-term Congress MP Ravneet Singh Bittu joined the saffron party and asserted that people have made up their minds to elect Prime Minister Narendra Modi to power again.

Bittu is the grandson of former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh, a hero of the anti-terrorism campaign in the state who was assassinated in a terror attack while still in office.

ARVIND More Information

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Starting April 1, road trips are likely to become more expensive. Here's why! The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) will revise the toll tax prices, and will likely increase toll for the Delhi-Meerut Expressway by 5 to 10 per cent from April 2024.

According to a News18 report, the NHAI will up the toll for light vehicles by 5 per cent, while the big vehicle will have to give an additional 10 per cent on toll.

Currently, the NHAI charges a toll of 2.19 per km on the 135 km-long Delhi-Meerut Expressway.

Considering the kilometers of the Delhi-Meerut Expressway, the toll will increase significantly, thereby increasing the cost of travel.

The move is expected to affect thousands of commuters, not only only the Delhi-Meerut Expressway but also on the Eastern Peripheral Expressway.

The NHAI has decided to hike the toll on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway with the intention of producing an additional income for infrastructure development and the upkeep of the expressway, said the report.

The toll tariff is adjusted on an annual basis, according to the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008.

According to the report, the proposal for revised toll prices was delivered by the NHAIs Project Implementation Unit (PIU) on March 25. Following a clearance from the Ministry of Road and Transport, the revised tariffs will come into effect on April 1.

The Delhi-Meerut Expressway has six entry and exit points:

Sarai Kale Khan

Indirapuram

Vijay Nagar

Dasna

Rasulpur Sikrod

Bhojpur

How much will the toll tax cost now?

If you drive your car, a light vehicle, from Meerut to Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi, you will now have to pay 168. Earlier this price was 160.

However, for heavy vehicles, who paid 250 for the same stretch earlier, will have to pay 262.2 after April 1.

Delhi-Meerut Expressway's major toll plaza is located in Meerut's Kashi.

Nitin Gadkari on Toll tax

The Union Road Minister Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday said that the Centre is considering to end toll plazas. "There will be a satellite base toll collection system"

Speaking with news agency ANI, Gadkari said that it will save both time and money.

"Now we are ending toll and there will be a satellite base toll collection system. Money will be deducted from your bank account and the amount of road you cover will be charged accordingly. Through this time and money can be saved," he said.

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Dilip Ghoshs indecent remarks about West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on March 26 have sparked a controversy. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has now issued a show-cause notice to the Medinipur Member of Parliament (MP).

The show-cause notice, signed by BJP General Secretary Arun Singh, has condemned Dilip's comments towards the Bengal CM.

"Honorable Dilip Ghosh, your statement today is indecent, unparliamentary, and contrary to the policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The party condemns this statement. As per the directions of the national president, JP Nadda, please explain your behaviour as soon as possible," says a translated version of the notice.

Dilip Ghosh said he will reply to the notice by a letter", ANI reported.

What Dilip Ghosh said

Dilip Ghosh was on his morning walk in Durgapur when he made the remarks about CM Banerjee, also known as Didi.

"When Didi goes to Goa, she calls herself daughter of Goa. When she goes to Tripura, she says that she is the daughter of Tripura. Decide who your father is. It's not right to be anybody's daughter," he said to his laughing audience.

What Trinamool Congress said

Trinamool Congress (TMC), in a post on X (formerly Twitter), said, Dilip Ghosh is a disgrace in the name of political leadership! From challenging the lineage of Maa Durga to now questioning the ancestry of Smt. Mamata Banerjee, he has wallowed in the filthiest depths of moral bankruptcy."

Also Read: BJP fields Sandeshkhali housewife Rekha Patra from Basirhat seat

One thing is crystal clear: Ghosh has ZERO RESPECT for the women of Bengal, whether it be the revered goddess of Hinduism or the only woman Chief Minister of India," it added.

TMC approaches ECI

TMC filed a complaint against Ghosh with the West Bengal chief electoral officer on March 26 for passing derogatory and offensive comment personally attacking Mamata Banerjee, thereby violating Model Code of Conduct (MCC)". It has demanded immediate and strict action against Ghosh.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has reportedly sought a report on Ghoshs comment from the District Magistrate.

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The Centre has notified a fact-checking unit to flag misinformation about the government, with powers to issue directives. The Supreme Court has stayed the notification to verify the units constitutionality. Mint explains why such a unit could be cause for much conflict.

What did the notification imply?

The fact-checking unit (FCU) was notified under the Centres Press Information Bureau (PIB), giving the government body power to flag any information about the government and its affiliates that it believes to be fake or misleading. The powers of the FCU were established in the 2023 amendment of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, which said that if a central fact-checker flags any information as fake, social media platforms will need to remove it within 36 hours. This created concerns around free speech and regulatory overreach.

What happened in court?

A number of press freedom advocates and activists had filed an appeal against the regulation in 2023 at the Bombay High Court, which rejected a stay appeal against it on 13 March. However, on 21 March, the Supreme Court stayed the Bombay order, until the latter had passed a final verdict in the case. The Editors Guild of India, in a statement, said the rule gave the government absolute power to determine what is fake or not, in respect of its own work, and order take down (of content)." No such FCUs exist in the democratic world and Europes Fact-Checking Standards Network is a group of third-party verifiers.

Which fact-checking measures exist as of now?

Most fact-checkers currently operate privately or with specific social media platforms. X uses crowd-sourced flagging of fake content under Community Notes. Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has third-party fact-checking moderators. Popular publications also operate independent fact-checking bodies.

Can a govt fact-checker be objective?

Experts say governments could be naturally inclined to use such a body to take down content that may not suit their agenda. Lawyers say using legal clauses further threatens social media platforms into obeying such orderswhich in turn could directly clash with the platforms own policies, and with the fundamental idea of free speech. A Centre-affiliated FCU may also not have its own checks and balances, and could lead to a lack of transparency in terms of how or why a news item is flagged as inaccurate in the first place.

Does AI have a role to play in all this?

Yes. AI-generated content and deepfake images and videos threaten to make it really difficult to understand what is real, and what isnt. This could create significant issues in election timeswhen nearly half of the worlds population is expected to vote for their next government, including India and the US. Some experts believe allowing the government to operate such an FCU in an election year would be detrimental to how foreign investors view freedom of expression in Indiaa major developing global economy.
Holy Week 2024: A pivotal period in the Christian calendar is the Holy Week, also called Passion Week. Spanning the last eight days of Lent, from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, it offers Christians across the world a time to ponder on the transformation brought by Jesus' death and sacrifice on the cross.

In the Christian tradition, Lent is a time of penitential preparation leading up to Easter, as defined by Britannica.

In Western churches, Lent starts on Ash Wednesday, six and a half weeks before Easter Sunday, providing 40 days for fasting and abstinence. In Eastern churches, the 40-day-long Lent period begins on the Monday of the seventh week before Easter and concludes on the Friday, nine days before Easter.

This practice mirrors Jesus Christ's fasting in the wilderness before starting his public ministry. Additionally, believers are encouraged to practice almsgiving, which involves giving money or food to the poor and performing charitable acts.

Also Read | Is Good Friday happy or sad? Know the significance, promise of redemption and more

What is Holy Week?

The week begins with Palm Sunday, marking Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. It proceeds with Jesus' Last Supper with his disciples, his betrayal by Judas, conviction by Pontius Pilot, crucifixion and death, and concludes with Easter Sunday, symbolising his resurrection.

Lent 2024 began with Ash Wednesday on February 14. Holy Week this year began on March 24 with Palm Sunday and will conclude with Easter celebrations on March 31.

What Are the Days of the Holy Week 2024?

Palm Sunday (March 24): Each year, Holy Week begins with Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus Christ's triumphant arrival in Jerusalem on a donkey. The Bible recounts people waving palm branches and laying them on the ground as Jesus passed. In churches, palm branches are often distributed and blessed by priests before congregants carry them in a procession.

Also Read | Palm Sunday: From symbolism of donkey to blessings of palm trees- Here's everything you need to know

Also known as Passion Sunday, the celebration marks the beginning of the most sombre week in the Christian calendar, which marks Jesus' crucifixion on Good Friday and his resurrection on Easter.

Holy Monday (March 25): Following Palm Sunday, Holy Monday marks the second day of Holy Week. According to biblical accounts, Jesus spent this day teaching and debating with religious authorities in Jerusalem.

Christians remember Jesus cleansing the temple in Jerusalem. He called out the hypocrisy of merchants and consumers for selling their goods in the temple and turning the House of God into a den of thieves."

Holy Tuesday (March 26): Holy Tuesday, also known as Great and Holy Tuesday, commemorates the collaboration between priests or Pharisees and King Herod the Great to condemn Jesus.

Also called Fig Tuesday, it remembers Jesus' return to Jerusalem from Bethany, where he encountered a barren fig tree. Jesus used the tree as a lesson for his disciples that with faith, they possess the power to bless or curse their surroundings.

Holy Wednesday (March 27): On Holy Wednesday, one of Jesus' disciples, Judas Iscariot, agreed to betray him to the religious leaders for 30 pieces of silver. Many churches observe this day with the Tenebrae service, featuring solemn readings and psalms.

Tenebrae, which means "darkness" in Latin, is observed in Western Christianity during the three days leading up to Easter Day. It involves the gradual extinguishing of candles and concludes with a "strepitus" or "loud noise" in complete darkness towards the end of the service.

Maundy Thursday (March 28): During the Last Supper, Jesus introduced the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist and washed his disciples' feet, emphasising service and humility. Notably, "Maundy" comes from the Latin word mandatum, or commandment, reflecting Jesus' words, I give you a new commandment."

Also Read | Good Friday 2024: Know date, history and significance of the Christian holiday

Good Friday (March 29): Good Friday remembers Jesus' crucifixion and death, urging Christians to reflect on his sacrifice. Many churches observe Stations of the Cross, meditating on events leading to Jesus' death.

The Stations of the Cross depict a series of 14 images or carvings illustrating events in the Passion of Christ, from his condemnation by Pontius Pilate to his burial. The sequence of stations includes: Jesus is condemned to death; Jesus bears his cross; Jesus falls the first time; Jesus meets his mother; Simon of Cyrene helps Jesus carry the cross; Veronica wipes Jesus face; Jesus falls the second time; The women of Jerusalem weep for Jesus; Jesus falls the third time; Jesus is stripped of his garments; Jesus is nailed to the cross; Jesus dies on the cross; Jesus is taken down from the cross; and Jesus is placed in the tomb.

These images are typically displayed on the interior walls of churches or chapels but may also be found in locations such as cemeteries and religious residences.

Holy Saturday (March 30): Holy Saturday marks the conclusion of the Lenten season in Christian tradition, occurring on the day preceding Easter Sunday. This observance remembers the last day of Christs death and eagerly anticipates Jesus' resurrection. Easter Vigils in churches include readings, prayers, and lighting the Paschal Candle, symbolising Christ's light. During the vigil celebration, fires and candles are often lit to symbolise Christ's transition from death to life, while tolling bells indicate the joyful conclusion of Lent.

Also Read | Why is Easter associated with rabbits and egg?

Easter Sunday (March 31): Easter Sunday, also called Resurrection Day, is among the primary festivals of the Christian church and commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion. Christians worldwide celebrate Easter as a joyful occasion, symbolising the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecies and the revelation of Gods plan for humanity's salvation.

By marking Jesus' resurrection, Easter signifies the triumph over death and the promise of salvation. According to Christian belief, Jesus' death atoned for humanity's sins, and his resurrection offers believers hope for their resurrection.

Different Christian denominations observe Easter with their unique liturgical customs. For instance, in North America, Protestant churches often hold Easter sunrise services. In the Roman Catholic tradition, the Easter vigil comprises four main parts: the lighting of the Paschal candle, the reading of prophetic passages, the administration of baptism and confirmation to adult converts, and the celebration of Easter mass.

Families gather for feasts, and churches hold special services. The tradition of Easter eggs, widely observed during this season, symbolises rebirth and new life.

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New Delhi: Key targets set in the interim budget will be continued in the full-year budget to be presented by the new government in July, two people aware of the matter said, in an effort to work within prescribed fiscal limits.

The targets, announced by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 1 February, are unlikely to change even if a different government comes to power, the officials told Mint on the condition of anonymity.

The finance ministry has already started preparations for the presentation of the full budget, and various ministries have been asked to present fresh assessments of their fund requirements for the next fiscal.

Ministries have been asked to give details of schemes that need to be expanded next year and those which could be trimmed or axed to make way for any new scheme the next government may like to introduce.

"As the full budget preparations start for next year, the effort is to work within the fiscal space provided in the interim budget. So, the fiscal deficit target of 5.1% (of the GDP) for FY25 would be maintained. However, within the constraints, there would be space for new schemes, if any, as the outgo for these would be spread over several years and not just FY2025," said one of the people mentioned above.

The general elections are set to be held in April-May and, as things stand, the full-year budget is likely to be presented in July to give a detailed roadmap for income and spending for the next fiscal.

"The government can announce major schemes without deviating from its proposed fiscal path," the person quoted above said.

A finance ministry spokesperson didnt respond to emailed queries.

In its interim budget for FY2025, the government gave a boost to capital expenditure by raising the allocation on infrastructure projects by 11% to 11.11 trillion for the year starting 1 April 2024.

The government has proposed fiscal deficit targets of 5.1% for FY25 and 4.5% or less by FY2026 continuing on its path of fiscal consolidation and bringing down the deficit to a 3% level over the next few years while eliminating revenue deficit.

In addition, the Centres borrowing target for FY2025 was lowered to 14.13 trillion from budget estimates of 15.43 trillion in FY24, which indicates the government's objective to keep debt at sustainable levels, while leaving legroom for the private sector to step up borrowings and invest in capacity expansion.

Meanwhile, the Centres subsidy bill for food, fertilizer and cooking gas has been projected at 3.81 trillion in FY2025, compared with a revised estimate of 4.03 trillion in FY2024.

The Interim Budget 2024-25 (FY2025) estimates India's nominal GDP to grow by 10.5 % to 327.7 trillion during the upcoming fiscal.

The growth is estimated to come on top of a nominal GDP of 293.90 trillion, as per the second advance estimates of GDP for 2023-24 released by the National Statistical Office (NSO).

The upcoming welfare schemes announced by the government should have a sunset clause, so these schemes will not lead to perennial fiscal pressure, said N.R. Bhanumurthy, vice chancellor of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar School of Economics University, Bengaluru.

"If the major welfare schemes have sunset clause long-term impact on public debt to GDP ratio will be lower," he added.

While some social welfare schemes like the 'Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana' (PMUY) and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) have sunset clauses, many others don't.

A sunset law is a clause in a statute or regulation that expires automatically on a specified date. It provides for an automatic repeal of the entire or sections of the law once that sunset date is reached.
Indias youth continue to grapple with soaring unemployment rates, with nearly 83 percent of the jobless population belonging to this demographic, as per the India Employment Report 2024 jointly published by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Institute of Human Development (IHD).

The report underscores a concerning trend where the proportion of educated young people, possessing at least secondary education, among the total unemployed youth has nearly doubled from 35.2 percent in 2000 to 65.7 percent in 2022.

Dropout rates after secondary education remain high, particularly in poorer states and among marginalised groups. Despite rising enrolment in higher education, quality concerns persist, with significant learning deficits observed across school and higher education levels, as per the report.

It was released by Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran on March 26.

Rising Unemployment Among Educated Youth

According to the study, youth employment and underemployment surged between 2000 and 2019 but saw a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic years. Educated youths, however, experienced significantly higher levels of joblessness during this period.

Further, the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR), and the Unemployment Rate (UR) witnessed a sustained decline between 2000 and 2018, only to show signs of improvement post-2019, the report highlights.

However, the authors of the report caution that this improvement needs careful interpretation, especially given the questions raised about the drivers of these changes.

Wages have largely remained stagnant or declined, with real wages for regular workers and self-employed individuals showing a negative trend after 2019. A substantial portion of unskilled casual workers did not receive the mandated minimum wages in 2022.

Significant variations in employment outcomes exist across states, with certain states consistently ranking lower in employment indicators. States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh have struggled with poor employment outcomes over the years, reflecting the influence of regional policies.

Challenge of Youth Employment in India

India is at a crucial juncture concerning youth employment as it holds the potential to harness its demographic advantage. With a significant portion of the population falling within the working age bracket, India stands to benefit from what is termed a "demographic dividend."

However, this advantage is facing challenges as the youth population, which constituted 27 per cent of the total population in 2021, is projected to decrease to 23 per cent by 2036.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated challenges in the youth labour market, leading to temporary worsening of indicators during peak periods. Although there were some recovery post-lockdowns, it was accompanied by an increase in poor-quality work, particularly in self-employment and unpaid family work.

Technological advancements have also affected the demand for skills and types of employment, with young people being better represented in high- and medium-skill jobs and the gig economy. However, job insecurity remains a concern in these sectors.

And, regional disparities exist in youth employment outcomes across Indian states, with states at different stages of demographic transition experiencing varying employment outcomes. While some states show promising outcomes, others, particularly in the northern and eastern regions, face challenges in youth employment.

Paradoxical Labour Market Dynamics, Informal Sector and Livelihood Insecurities

Recent years have seen paradoxical shifts in key labour market indicators, reflecting a blend of improvements and setbacks. While the labour force participation rate, workforce participation rate, and unemployment rate experienced a prolonged decline from 2000 to 2019, there was a subsequent improvement, coinciding with periods of economic strain, including the COVID-19 pandemic, except for two peak pandemic quarters.

The trend in overall labour market indicators is echoed more prominently in the female labour market. After a notable decline in previous years, the female labour market participation rate displayed a swifter upward trajectory from 2019 onwards, particularly in rural areas.

There has also been a gradual enhancement in employment conditions over the years, as indicated by the employment condition index. Between 2005 and 2022, there was a steady rise in values, denoting better employment conditions. However, this trend was interrupted and even reversed after 2019, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting persistent challenges in employment conditions.

The slow transition away from agricultural employment witnessed a reversal after 2019, with a notable rise in agricultural employment and a decline in non-farm employment, especially in manufacturing. The construction and services sectors absorbed the increase in non-farm employment.

Notably, the increase in employment post-2019 was largely driven by self-employed workers, with a significant portion comprised of unpaid family workers, predominantly women. Informal employment consists of nearly 90 percent of workers engaged, the report notes. Additionally, the share of regular employment, which saw a steady rise post-2000, witnessed a decline after 2018.

The report underscores widespread livelihood insecurities, especially among those not covered by social protection measures. Urbanisation and migration rates are forecasted to increase, with projections suggesting a migration rate of around 40 percent by 2030 and a substantial urban population growth driven by migration, particularly from eastern and central regions to southern, western, and northern regions.

Skill Deficit, Gender Disparities Hinders Youth Employment

Despite India's youthful demographic, there's a concerning lack of necessary skills among the workforce. The report highlights that a significant portion of the youth lacks basic digital literacy skills, hindering their employability. It noted that 90 percent of Indian youth are unable to put a mathematical formula into a spreadsheet, 60 percent cannot copy and paste files, and at least 75 percent of youth are unable to send emails with attachments.

The report also sheds light on the widening gender gap in the labour market, with low rates of female labour force participation. Young women, particularly those with higher education, face substantial challenges in securing employment.

Social inequalities also persist despite affirmative action and targeted policies, with Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes facing barriers to accessing better job opportunities. Although educational attainment has improved across all groups, social hierarchies persist, exacerbating the employment disparity.

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Five Chinese nationals and their Pakistani driver were killed after a suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden car into the vehicle carrying Chinese engineers and workers. Now, Fazal-ur-Rehman Afridi, a member of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), has now claimed that there appears to be a connection between the recent suicide bombing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Shangla area and the terror assault that occurred in Moscow.

While stressing that not only Pakistan, but the whole world is in danger, Afridi told news agency ANI, "I think there seems to be a link between the Moscow terrorist attack and this Pakistani attack and more seems to be in the pipeline."

He further blamed the proxies of Pakistan and said, "It will not stop until or unless Pakistanis are made accountable for their actions. And whatever is happening, it's through the proxies of Pakistan and the terrorists trained in the Pakistani training camp, especially the ISIS."

Condemning the terrorist attack on the Chinese engineers, PTM member said, I would like to condemn the terrorist attack on the Chinese engineers in district Shangla in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which resulted in the killing of five Chinese nationals and their Pakistani driver."

He further alleged that Pakistan is double-gaming China as they did with the US. "It seems that the proxies of Pakistan's army have carried out this attack and this time Pakistan is double-gaming China as they have done with the United States of America and the so-called war on terror," Afridi said as quoted by ANI.

He also alleged that there are terrorist training camps in Pakistan, where terrorists are trained to attack different communities in Pakistan.

"We also informed the world about the terrorist training camps in different areas of Pakistan, particularly in...and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where terrorists are trained to attack different communities in Pakistan, particularly the Pashtuns and Baloch. Why are these areas bleeding and other areas of Pakistan, like Punjab is safe? It's clear to the world," he said.

Meanwhile, on yesterday's attack on the Chinese national, The Chinese embassy in Pakistan has demanded investigations into the attack and "severe punishment" for the perpetrators. "The Chinese embassy and consulates in Pakistan have immediately launched emergency work, demanding that the Pakistani side conduct a thorough investigation into the attack, severely punish the perpetrators and take practical and effective measures to protect the safety of Chinese citizens," the embassy said in a statement.

(With inputs from ANI)

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Vedanta group company Sterlite Power and an affiliate of Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC have signed definitive agreements to set up a new platform to develop and operate power transmission projects in India. Sterlite Power will own the majority stake of 51% and GIC will own the remaining 49% stake, said a joint statement.

Pratik Agarwal, managing director, Sterlite Power said: India's renewable vision calls for investments in transmission to unlock the full potential of 500 GW of renewable power. This joint venture signals global confidence in India's growth vision. With GIC as our partner, we are poised to play a leading role in India's transmission sector, starting with the $13 billion bid pipeline."

The statement said that Sterlite Power was advised by Deutsche Bank, AZB Partners, and Khaitan & Co and GIC was advised by Avener Capital, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co., and PWC for the transaction.

Ang Eng Seng, chief investment officer of infrastructure at GIC, said: India is a key long-term market for GIC given its strong economic fundamentals and favourable demographics, which are spurring opportunities in many sectors including infrastructure development."

Sterlite Power is a power transmission infrastructure developer and solutions provider with a portfolio of 33 completed, sold and under-construction projects covering around 15,350 circuit kilometres of transmission lines across India and Brazil.

In India, Sterlite Power has over $2 billion worth of projects under management.

In November, the company announced to demerge its transmission business into a separate entity and Sterlite Power would continue to house the manufacturing business.

In a recent interview to Mint, Agarwal said that company is awaiting the approval to the demerger proposal from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and expects the process to complete by the second quarter of the FY25. He had said that the company is already in talks with private equity investors for an equity fundraise for its transmission business.

The company is also present in the products and services business wherein it produces power transmission components such as power conductors, power cables and over ground wire cables.

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The Aam Aadmi Party on Wednesday faced a series of setbacks after its AAP MP Sushil Kumar Rinku and MLA Sheetal Angural joined the Bharatiya Janata Party followed by Delhi High Court's refusal to interfere with arrest of CM Arvind Kejriwal by ED in excise policy case. Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India issued a show cause notice to Congress leader Supriya Shrinate for her derogatory remarks against Kangana Ranaut. As March 27 comes to an end, here are top 5 events that made headlines today.

No relief for Arvind Kejriwal from HC

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to interefere on AAP supremo's plea challenging arrest by Enforcement Directorate in the Delhi liquor policy scam case. The next hearing in the case will be on April 3. (Read full story)

RBI releases MPC schedule for FY 25

The Reserve Bank of India on Wednesday, released the monetary policy committee (MPC) schedule for financial year 2024-25 (FY 25). The first policy meeting for FY 25 will be conducted from April 3-5, 2024. Later, the RBI's rate-setting panel will then meet for its following policy meetings in June, August, October, December and Februrary 2024, according to the central bank schedule.

( Read full story)

NSE T+0 settlement: 25 stock-listed firms to have new timeline from tomorrow

NSE T+0 settlement: After Bombay Stock Exchange Limited (BSE), National Stock Exchange (NSE) has released the first list of 25 stocks that will be eligible for the shortened settlement cycle from tomorrow, March 28. The 25 scrips that will be available for the T+0 cycle are -SBI, Vedanta, MRF, etc. (Read full story)

EC notice to Supriya Shrinate

Taking cognisance of the derogatory remarks made by Congress leader Supriya Shrinate against actress turned BJP politician Kangana Ranaut, the Election Commission on Wednesday issued a show cause notice to the Congress leader. Kangana Ranaut is set to make her political debut in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi. (Read full story)

SRH vs MI IPL 2024

The IPL match between Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad began at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Wednesday at 7 pm. Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya won the toss and decided to bowl first against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Catch SRH vs MI IPL 2024 LIVE Updates

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Baltimore Bridge Collapse: United States President Joe Biden has commended the alertness of the 22 Indian-origin personnel aboard 'Dali', the ship which collided with a Baltimore bridge, for preventing more casualties with their mayday call.

A container ship, Dali collided with a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore (Maryland) around 1:30 am local time on March 26. The collision caused significant damage, leading to the bridge collapsing into the Patapsco River.

However, all traffic on board the bridge was stopped in time as the 22 crew onboard the vessel sent out a 'mayday' call alerting local authorities that they had lost power on the vessel.

Also Read | Baltimore bridge collapse: Francis Scott Key Bridge falls after ship collision; mass casualties feared  Watch

Crew Hailed for Heroic Actions

The container ship's "mayday" call before the collision prompted a swift response from authorities, leading to the evacuation of individuals on the bridge. This quick action is credited with potentially saving lives.

However, six members of a nighttime construction crew working on the bridge are missing and presumed dead. Efforts to locate their bodies are ongoing.

"Personnel onboard the ship were able to alert the Maryland Department of Transportation that they had lost control of their vessel. As a result, local authorities were able to close the bridge to traffic before the bridge was struck, which undoubtedly saved lives," Biden said during his comments at the White House.

Also Read | Baltimore bridge collapse: 6 missing workers presumed dead, Joe Biden plans to travel as quickly as I can | 10 points

Maryland Governor Wes Moore also said the crew's quick alert had saved lives.

"We can confirm that the crew notified authorities of a power issue. These people are heroes. We're thankful that between the Mayday and the collapse we had officials who were able to begin to stop the flow of traffic. These people are heroes. They saved lives last night," Moore told AFP.

What About the Casualties?

All 22 crew members, including the two pilots, are reported to be safe, according to the Synergy Marine Group.

Eight people from a construction crew engaged in filling potholes on the bridge fell into the water, with two managing to survive. Unfortunately, six individuals are currently unaccounted for. Efforts to locate them are set to recommence on Wednesday morning, AP reported.

Reports from diplomatic sources indicate that among the missing are individuals hailing from Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico. One of the identified individuals is Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova, a Honduran citizen, as per AP.

Also Read | Baltimore bridge collapse: US Transportation Secy says 'path to normalcy will not be easynot an ordinary bridge

What Caused the Incident?

While the exact cause of the collision is yet to be determined, Moore confirmed that the container ship experienced a loss of power before the incident.

Both federal and state authorities have suggested that the incident is likely an accident. The National Transportation Safety Board is conducting an investigation, leading to the indefinite suspension of ship traffic entering and departing from the Port of Baltimore.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge is a vital transportation route handling 31,000 cars per day or 11.3 million vehicles annually. The route is now suspended, impacting both local and international shipping operations.

Also Read | Baltimore Bridge Collapse: Coal export likely to take a hit for around six weeks

Baltimore's port handles a smaller volume compared to major ports such as New York and New Jersey but is still key. US Biden has called for government funding to rebuild the collapsed bridge and expedite port reopening.

Sharing details of the vessel 'Dali', the Synergy Marine Group said the capacity of the ship is 10,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit), while 4,679 TEU were onboard. It said the owner of the vessel was Grace Ocean Private; the crew members were all Indians and 22 in total. The vessel was "outbound from Baltimore to Colombo" in Sri Lanka.

(With inputs from AP, AFP)

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Buckingham Palace officials on Wednesday said King Charles III is set to return to public duties on Sunday as he is scheduled to attend an Easter service at the chapel at Windsor Castle with Queen Camilla. This appearance would be his first major event since he was diagnosed with cancer last month.

However, Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton are not expected to attend the event, amid CatherinesPrincess of Walescancer diagnosis and treatment. The royal couple last week announced that they are not expected to attend the event.

King Charles III and Queen consort Camilla will be accompanied by members of the royal family at St. George's Chapel, Buckingham Palace officials said, adding that the event is likely to be smaller than usual.

It is important to note that King Charles is himself undergoing cancer treatment and has suspended all his public duties since his diagnosis. Though, the palace has yet not disclosed what form of cancer the King has clarified that its not related to his recent treatment for his prostate condition.

Buckingham Palace officials have said that despite undergoing treatment, King Charles III is continuing with state business. The monarch is attending regular weekly meetings with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and won't be handing over his constitutional role as head of state, the palace officials added.

On Tuesday, the British monarch met with community and faith leaders at Buckingham Palace to hear about their work of boosting social cohesion amid heightened international tensions.

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S Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, on Wednesday said that what happened on October 7 in Israel was terrorism but nobody could deny that Palestinians have been denied their home.

In an interaction with the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur, Jaishankar said, "Nobody would, you know, countenance the deaths of innocent civilians. Countries may be justified at least in their own minds and response, but you cannot have a response which does not take into account something called international humanitarian law."

He added, "And the fact is, that whatever the rights and wrongs of the issue, there is the underlying issue of the rights of the Palestinians and the fact that they have been denied their homeland."

On October 7, Hamas militants launched an attack in southern Israel, killing and abducting scores of its citizens. It has since then escalated into a full-fledged war in Gaza. Israel said it would continue the offensive until all hostages are released and Hamas is destroyed.

Jaishankar's statements come just a day after former US President Donald Trump said that the attack on Israel was "one of the saddest things" but the country must put an end to the war.

"That being said, you have to finish up your war. You have to finish it up, you got to get it done," he said in an interview with newspaper Israel Hayom.

Jaishankar on Wednesday said that India has also talked to Russians "very frankly and bluntly" on their war with Ukraine and the solution can not be found on the battlefield.

"At the end of the day, every party and a lot of innocent bystanders or other nations also get ruined or affected. One way or the other by conflict. So, our position has been here to find a way of bringing this conflict to an end," he said, adding that "very honestly, in some circles, this was not a very popular position at that time".

During his address, Jaishankar also said that India and Malaysia are by nature "pluralistic". He also held a round-table meeting with various chief executive officers in Malaysia.

In a post on social media platform X, he wrote, "Glad to hear about growing interest in partnering with Indian industries. Encouraged them to join in Indias growth story. Discussed geopolitical developments that can provide more opportunities in India-Malaysia business interactions."

Jaishankar is in Kuala Lumpur on the last leg of his three-nation tour to Singapore, the Philippines and Malaysia.

(With agency inputs)

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Indias policy focus on making the country a hub for EV-making will have a side effect. As electric vehicles (EVs) roll off assembly lines, our dependence on Chinese imports will rise, even though weve been trying to reduce it. Thats because China, with a head-start of a decade or so, is the global leader of clean-tech in general and this segment of the auto industry in particular. A report by Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) highlights this trade-off. Our latest EV thrust, led by a policy carve-out that envisions a competitive EV industry behind low tariff barriers, is likely to result in greater shipments from China, which dominates the global value chain (GVC) of EV batteries, going all the way back to lithium, a key mineral. In the next few years, according to the report, every third EV and many passenger and commercial vehicles on [Indian] roads could be those made by Chinese firms." This isnt a scenario New Delhi will be comfortable with as ties with Beijing fray amid geopolitical tension, territorial disputes and economic competition. We dont have much choice, though. China embarked on an EV drive before others and is well ahead on cost compression. While India has a lot of catching up to do, the race has only just begun and so we can still hope to vie for global leadership. Auto-making in India has always been done behind high tariffs, but with EVs, a new story could possibly be scripted.

Currently, about 70% of the materials used to make EVs in India are imported from China and other countries, according to the GTRI report. The Peoples Republic is home to an estimated three-fourths of the worlds battery capacity, an input that typically accounts for between a third and 40% of an EVs cost. Separately, in a recent study to assess the exposure of our factories to overseas GVCs, chief economic advisor V. Anantha Nageswaran and his team found that between 2000 and 2022, Chinas share of foreign inputs purchased by Indian manufacturers shot up from 5% to 23%, with Americas share as our next major source-country far lower, at only 6%. This is a significant dependency, overall. If GTRIs forecasts pan out without equivalent reductions in other industries, an adversarial country could exceed a quarter of Indias GVC exposure. Although this is a sign of how interlinked todays globalized world is, the US-led West has blatantly flouted free-trade ideals in trying to squeeze Chinese exports and Indian interests can be argued to lie in adopting a similar stance. After the Galwan border clash in 2020, New Delhi sought to dissuade Chinese participation in our economy. Now with a new EV policy thats likely to draw shiploads of cargo from China, should we worry about the disruption risks this would entail?

Much of what goes into cars is already made locally. We have yet-to-be-exploited lithium deposits in Jammu and Kashmir and Rajasthan. Given time, self-sufficiency is conceivable. But for now, Chinese inputs seem inevitable, so we must weigh what could go wrong against the gains of India emerging as an EV hub, an aim that would be hobbled without access to the worlds cheapest usable components. Todays emphasis should be on making headway as an EV-making country to rival China in markets abroad. If a step-up in Chinese participationsay, via joint ventures with Indian firmsserves this purpose, we should accept it without flinching. To mitigate risk, we could zoom out and work out plans for other industries with easier paths to exposure reduction. But let this anxiety not get in the way of Indias EV bet.
While political party" is not entirely absent as a mention in Indias Constitution, it finds space only in the 10th Schedule, which was added in 1985, brought about by the introduction of an anti-defection law. Otherwise, could it be that the founding fathers of the republic did not conceive of a central role for political parties? In his historic and concluding speech to the Constituent Assembly, when the final draft of the Constitution was adopted, B.R. Ambedkar famously said that however good a constitution may be, it can be rendered bad if the people called to work it are a bad lot. Conversely, even a badly drafted constitution can work out well in the hands of good people. Thus, it is not the Constitution per se, but rather the working of it through the organs of the state that determines whether democracy flourishes. And this depends ultimately on the people and the political parties they form as instruments to carry out their wishes. Thus, Ambedkars speech does mention political parties as instruments of expression of the popular will. But parties were not supposed to become the super powerful Leviathans that they have. It is wholly plausible that an elected legislature can choose a set of people to run the government without any reference to the concept of a political party. Indeed, once elected to the House, a member represents neither solely his or her party, nor solely a geographical constituency, but the entire people of India. This hypothesis of a democracy run sans political parties may sound hopelessly utopian but is theoretically possible. The missing emphasis on the idea of a political party in the Constitution is not an accident.

Not surprisingly then, the functioning of political parties is subject to very little regulation to this day. The regulatory burden on other forms of organizations, such as companies, NGOs, hospitals, schools and even temples, is far greater than on political parties. This is remarkable, considering that every aspect of our society and economy is influenced by politicians and their parties, and they play a pivotal role in our democracy. They are regulated by the Election Commission, which can register but not de-register parties. The conditions that parties must fulfil, laid down in Section 29A of the Representation of Peoples Act 1951, are minimal. How do they function? How are they financed? Can the public scrutinize their accounts? The statutes are mostly silent on this. Even though our democracy functions through political parties, their own inner functioning is not required to be democratic. Parties have also consistently resisted attempts to bring them under the Right to Information Act, even though they de facto satisfy the definition of being a public authority" under the Act.

Parties provide the vital link between citizens and state. They compete to form the government by fighting elections, which reflect the collective will of the people. All elections cost money, and this cost is increasing by leaps and bounds. The law stipulates an upper limit on spending per candidate, but there is no limit on what a party can spend. Strangely, as per records filed with the Election Commission, candidates do not spend even half their permissible limit. But we know this is misleading. Actual spending is far in excess of what is reported to the Election Commission. This is unaccounted for and by definition black money. During the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the estimated total spending was in excess of 50,000 crore. Money power cannot guarantee electoral success, so it becomes a race to the bottom. Even Ambedkar had identified this malaise. Till we figure out a way out of this fruitless race, and how to curtail poll expenditure, we must at least shine a spotlight on the funds trail. A necessary reform is to reduce the influence of illegitimate money on elections. How to bring the money in from the shadows, that is.

Electoral bonds introduced in Parliament in 2017 were supposed to be a step in that direction. If the scheme had included complete transparencywho is funding whom and how much, and with a digital trailit would indeed have been a step in the right direction. Expressing its opinion, the Reserve Bank of India had asked for a digital-only mode for these transfers. It instead became an anonymous bearer bond scheme, with voters left with no clue or right to know. Anonymity is the opposite of transparency. It also caused an asymmetry, since a government-owned bank had knowledge but not anyone else. No wonder the Supreme Court declared the scheme unconstitutional.

We need at least two major steps in political funding reforms. The first is transparency of both donors and receivers. Who is giving money to whom? Let voters know and then decide. The second and more important step is to reduce the overall influence of money itself on electoral outcomes. Noam Chomsky, the noted political theorist, had said that the 2016 elections in the United States were a watershed event, not because of the rise of Donald Trump, but because of the rise of Bernie Sanders. He said that for more than 100 years, fund-raising, spending and winning elections have been strongly correlated. But for the first time, a candidate like Sanders was becoming popular even though he didnt have the backing of money power. In India too, at the grassroot level of village panchayats and municipal corporations, we are seeing some candidates winning without using the influence of money. Lets hope that this is a sign of a national clean-up.
On Monday, for the first time since the Gaza war broke out in October 2023, the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire, the instant and unconditional release of hostages, and expanded flow of aid to the besieged territory. The vote went through because Israels chief backer, the US, abstained instead of using its veto against the 14 countries in favour of the proposal.

Over 30,000 lives are reckoned to have been lost so far in Israeli attacks on Gaza in response to last years terror strikes by Hamas militants, but Israel has not backed down. While its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office noted Americas clear retreat" from its previous stance, it might be counting on Washington not to enforce the resolution.

If that works out as a safe bet, as looks likely, then it will hurt the UNs prestige and expose the US to renewed criticism over its approach. The world urgently needs to intervene on behalf of hapless Palestinian civilians on that tiny patch of land, with adults of all genders and even children vulnerable to bombs as much as starvation. This war must stop. Will the US take action or keep backing its ally?
Indias metal king and self-made billionaire Anil Agarwal is finding out that the best-laid plans of mice and men can go awry. Eighteen months ago, his group announced it would set up a display fabrication and semiconductor manufacturing facility in Gujarat. A year later another announcement followed, that of a demerger of five businesses from the groups flagship company, Vedanta Ltd. After a period of financial distress, the tycoon, it seemed, was back in business.

But like the toothache that resurfaces after the painkillers effects have worn out, Agarwals problems are back. After Credit Sights flagged that the demerger could face major hurdles from minority shareholders and creditors, a Mint report confirmed that lenders to Vedanta were concerned about the lack of clarity on how their debt would be split among the various business units. The lenders consortium, whose consent is essential for the merger to go through, have appointed SBI Capital Markets to examine the demerger proposal.

Add to these hurdles an administrative warning Vedanta received from the Securities and Exchange Board of India earlier this month.

It is now evident that the announcements of venturing into semiconductors followed by the demerger proposal were signs of a group in some financial distress. With a mountain of debt weighing him down, Agarwal used these announcements to buy himself time as well as elbow room from his creditors. The proposal to set up a semiconductor fab in collaboration with Foxconn, which came with the promise of generous government subsidy, did give Vedanta a boost and the group successfully restructured some of its near-term debt in early 2024.

But the denouement was predictably anti-climatic. The joint venture with Foxconn was stillborn, with the Taiwanese company walking out after realizing that Vedanta wouldnt be able to attract the technology partner needed to get the venture off the ground.

Then emerged the second master plan six months ago, when the group announced its plan to split Vedanta into six listed companies. There was more shrewdness than strategy behind the move. After all, just over a decade ago, Agarwal had done the reverse, merging all his businesses into Vedanta with plans to take it private. The argument for the merger then was exactly the same as it is for the demerger today: unlocking value.

Taking that at face value is a bit hard.

The Credit Sights report warns that the demerger will not fundamentally and significantly address VRLs (Vedanta Resources Ltd) ability to service its debt obligations, and would in fact complicate VRLs corporate structure, something the company has spent a decade simplifying".

Indeed, Vedantas big worry now is tackling lenders reservations about whether the demerger could result in companies having weaker credit profiles than the combined Vedanta Ltd.

Assuaging creditor concerns may not be the only hurdle Vedanta faces.

Getting shareholder approval for the plan could be a challenge. Minority shareholders might oppose the move over concerns that the demerger process could undervalue their stakes in certain businesses.

Even assuming that the demerger exercise goes through eventually, running six separate entities would present operational complexities in terms of planning and execution. It would also test the groups management bandwidth.

Vedanta will also be left to contend with the integration of Hindustan Zinc Ltd, which had to split into two entities on hold after objections from the government, which owns a 29.54% stake in the company. How this integrated entity will co-exist with the other independent businesses is a question mark.

Of course, finally, the success of the demerger will have an impact on how the stock market reacts. If the new companies dont perform well after listing, it could erode shareholder value. Demergers can be a powerful tool for corporate restructuring but reports estimate their failure rates range from 30% to 50%.

While Vedanta hopes that the demerger will unlock value for shareholders, its a complex undertaking with inherent risks.
WASHINGTONIn two days of meetings between the Israeli defense chief and senior officials in the White House and Pentagon, discussions on Israels planned military operation in southern Gaza focused not on how to stop it, but on how to protect civilians during its rollout.

The businesslike tone of the talks was a departure from previous weeks, when top U.S. officials bluntly warned Israel against an all-out offensive on Rafahwhere more than a million displaced Palestinians have taken refugewhile Israels prime minister defiantly vowed to press ahead.

Rafah has been at the center of a growing rift between Israeli and U.S. political leaders. Those tensions boiled over on Monday, when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a visit to Washington by top aides to discuss U.S. concerns over the planned offensive on Rafah, where Hamas fighters are making a final stand. The tit-for-tat move was in response to the U.S. abstaining from a United Nations Security Council resolution that called for an immediate cease-fire while also demanding the release of hostages.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, however, proceeded with his meetings at the White House and Pentagon on Monday and Tuesday, which had been previously scheduled. Gallant is part of Israels three-member war cabinet that includes Netanyahu and Benny Gantz, the prime ministers chief political rival.

While President Bidens relationship with Netanyahu has frayed, the channel between U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Gallant remains strong. Since Hamass Oct. 7 attack on Israel, the two defense chiefs have met several times and talked by phone about 40 times.

In Gallants closed-door meetings in Washington, a more pragmatic conversation began to emerge in which the discussions were on conducting a phased operation to reduce the potential harm to civilians while still ensuring that Israel dismantles Hamass four battalions in Rafah.

I think there is an understanding we have to dismantle Hamas," Gallant said, following his White House meetings.

At a Tuesday meeting at the Pentagon, Austin pressed his Israeli counterpart to ensure that effective arrangements were in place to protect civilians before an Israeli military operation is mounted to attack the Hamas fighters there.

There is a sequence," a U.S. defense official said. The military aspect of the operation should not proceed until the humanitarian aspects have been fully addressed."

Both sides also agreed that the Hamas battalions in Rafah must be dislodged so that the militants cannot attempt a comeback or continue to smuggle weapons into the enclave, which are prerequisites for ending the war and paving the way for a new political authority in Gaza. And that means trying to find ways to work with Israel on its Rafah strategy, for lack of better options.

After negotiations in Doha, Qatar, on a temporary cease-fire stalled last weekend, Israeli officials told mediators that it could launch an operation in Rafah as soon as Ramadan ends around mid-April if efforts to reach a deal fail, Egyptian officials said Wednesday. The talks may resume in person again in Cairo by the end of this week, the officials added.

A senior Israeli official familiar with the talks said Israel is still open to continuing negotiations, but would consider other options if there is no breakthrough, including launching its planned invasion of Rafah as soon as possible. Theres no doubt that a military operation could help," the official said.

While a military operation isnt imminent, the challenges are monumental. Around 1.4 million Gazans are sheltering in Rafah, including many who have already fled from other areas in Gaza. The city is also a major entry point for humanitarian assistance and an Israeli military operation, if not carefully designed, could cut civilians off from critical assistance while uprooting them yet again.

While Gallant and U.S. officials exchanged broad concepts of how a Rafah operation might unfold, details of Israels planned military operation have yet to be spelled out, leaving potential points of disagreement over the scope and key elements of Israels eventual military plan.

A critical question is whether American officials will regard Israels preparationsincluding moving Rafahs civilians out of harms way before an operation is launched and ensuring they receive humanitarian aidas adequate.

The two sides also discussed ways to address weapons smuggling across the Egypt-Gaza border, which Israel has cited as a concern, and precision targeting of Hamas leaders as U.S. officials continue to urge against the bombardment of densely populated areas.

Officials said that while there was some overlap between the U.S.s and Israels thinking, the plans have a long way to go before they are formalized, and any cogent plan to relocate civilians in Rafah could take months.

Our goal is to help Israel find an alternative to a full-scale and perhaps premature military operation," the U.S. defense official said.

Further discussions between the U.S. and Israeli officials are planned to iron out the complex array of issues that remain.

Still, the talks in Washington this week were strikingly different from the exchange last week when Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Israeli leaders that a major ground operation risked further isolating Israel around the world."

Netanyahu, in turn, said that his military was prepared to enter Rafah without U.S. political support, if necessary.

Summer Said and Dov Lieber contributed to this article.

Write to Michael R. Gordon at michael.gordon@wsj.com and Vivian Salama at vivian.salama@wsj.com
Bhartiya Janata Party President JP Nadda has sought an explanation from party leader and member of parliament (MP) Dilip Ghosh regarding his remarks on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee . In a letter to Ghosh, Nadda said his comments were indecent, unparliamentary, and against the party's tradition.

Ghosh courted controversy when he asked Mamata Banerjee to identify her own father. Ghosh, who represents the Medinipur Lok Sabha seat, has been fielded from Bardhaman-Durgapur seat in the Lok Sabha elections 2024.

This is not the first time that the BJP leader has courted controversy. In fact, he himself admits that his unparliamentary language has also led to controversies in the past.

Many people, including the party, said that I used unparliamentary language, if it is so, then I express my sadness at it...I will give an official reply to the notice," Ghosh told news agency ANI.

Here are some other occasions when Ghosh was at the centre of a political row.

Mamata Should Wear Bermudas

In March 2021, during the campaign for West Bengal assembly elections, Dilip Ghosh sparked a row when he asked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to wear bermudas to show her injured leg.

Also Read: Watch: BJPs Mai Hi Dulha Hun' jibe at INDIA blocs infighting as Lok Sabha elections loom

If Mamata Banerjee wants to show her legs, she should wear a pair of bermudas," Ghosh, the then BJP West Bengal President, had said during a campaign in Purulia.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had injured her leg during a campaign at Nandigram in the run-up to polls in February 2021, which TMC won.

Now that the plaster has been removed, she has put on a crepe bandage. She has covered one of her legs with a saree while the other is left open. Ive never seen anyone drape a saree like that."

Couldve Dragged Mamata By Hair

In December 2016, speaking at a rally in Howrah district, Ghosh abused Mamata Banerjee for going to Delhi and holding a demonstration at Jantar Mantar against demonetisation. Ghosh said that since the BJP was in power in Delhi, it could well hold her by the hair and throw her out.

"Our Chief Minister had gone to Delhi. She has made a lot of song and dance there. Tell me, we have our government there. If we had wanted, couldn't we have held her by the hair and thrown her out?"

The comments sparked outrage among TMC leaders and workers at the time. The party condemned Ghosh for using "abusive and goonda-like" language against the Chief Minister.

We have seen the abusive and goonda-like comments of Dilip Ghosh against our party supremo. We are not taking it lightly. We strongly condemn the language used by him," Trinamool Congress secretary-general Partha Chatterjee had said then, according to a report in NDTV.

Cow Milk Contains Gold

In November 2019, Ghosh courted yet another controversy when he said that desi cows milk contained gold and is, therefore, yellowish in colour. Ghosh also targeted those who ate beef, calling them anti-socials" and telling them to eat dog meat too.

Also Read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: Sena (UBT) releases 1st list of 16 candidates, fields ex-Union ministers. Check full list here

Desi cows have a hump on their back. Foreign breeds do not have a hump, and their backs are plain like that of a buffalo. The hump has swarna nari. When sunlight falls on the hump, it produces gold. That is why the milk of a desi cow is yellowish or lightly golden. It contains gold," Ghosh has said during a public meeting in Burdwan.

Beat Cops Up

In September 2017, Ghosh had asked party workers to beat up policemen if they refused to lodge complaints against Trinamool Congress workers. Ghosh was heard in a video clip saying that it was a democratic right in West Bengal" to assault policemen.

If TMC workers can get away by assaulting the police, then why cannot we do the same? There is no wrong in doing that because it is one of the democratic rights in West Bengal. Here, if you beat up policemen, then you will come to power," Ghosh told party workers in Howrah.

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Nirupam stressed that he will not endorse the candidacy of such a khichdi chor" (thief), who committed corruption during the Covid times, and whom Uddhav Thackeray has nominated. He was referring to Amol Kirtikar, whom Sena UBT has nominated from Mumbai North West constituency.

Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) has also nominated sitting MP Arvind Sawant from the South Mumbai seat. Mumbai North West constituency was once represented by his father, Gajanan Kirtikar.

Kirtikar's nomination comes even as the ED on Wednesday issued a summons to him in connection with his alleged involvement in the Khichdi scam.

He further noted, I want to tell the top leadership (of Congress) that I will wait for a maximum of one week more and then will take a decision. All options are open for me, I am not in an option-less situation."

As reported by ANI, Nirupam said that Shiv Sena should not take an extreme stand. This will cause a huge loss to Congress. I want to attract the attention of Congress leadership to intervene, if not then break the alliance to save the party. The decision of an alliance with Shiv Sena will prove self-destructive for Congress."

Earlier in the day, the Shiv Sena (UBT), which is part of the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), disclosed its first list of 17 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra.

Out of six (Lok Sabha) seats in Mumbai, Shiv Sena (UBT) will contest on five seats, and one seat has been left for the Congress like charity. This decision is aimed at burying the Congress in Mumbai. I oppose this decision," the Congress leader added.

Also Read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: Sena (UBT) releases 1st list of 16 candidates, fields ex-Union ministers. Check full list here

Maharashtra, which has 48 Lok Sabha seats, the second highest after Uttar Pradesh (80), will vote in five phases starting from April 19.

Shiv Sena announced its intention to vie for a total of 22 seats in the state. Among the nominations, former Union ministers Anant Geete and Arvind Sawant were selected to contest from the Raigad and South Mumbai constituencies respectively.

Candidates for five seats will be announced in the next two days for Palghar, Kalyan Dombivli, Mumbai North, Hatkanangale, Jalgaon. The names have been finalised," Raut said.

He said Raju Shetti of the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana wants to contest from the Hatkanangale seat with the support of the Shiv Sena (UBT). This is the seat the undivided Shiv Sena won in 2019. The party will take a call on whether to field a candidate from Hatkanangale or support Shetti," he added.

Also Read: An hour after nomination, Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Amol Kirtikar gets ED notice

Additionally, the party decided to field all five incumbent Lok Sabha MPs who remained loyal to party leader Uddhav Thackeray after the factional split in 2022.

The Congress, as part of the state-level opposition coalition, has announced its candidates for certain seats where there is no conflict with its alliance partners.

On Tuesday, Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole said Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) to consider a seat-sharing arrangement proposed by the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), led by Prakash Ambedkar, grandson of B R Ambedkar, for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the state.

He expressed disappointment regarding Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray's independent announcement of his party's candidate for the Sangli Lok Sabha seat, a traditionally contested constituency for the Congress.

Also Read: Mumbai College students 'forced to attend' session of Union Minister Piyush Goyal's son | Video

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader reportedly warned this week that the party risks losing its famous Hammer, Sickle and Star symbol if it doesn't perform well in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections.

AK Balan, a CPI(M) central committee member and former Kerala minister was quoted by News Minute as saying, "It is time to make sincere efforts to protect the party symbol."

ALSO READ: Cracks in INDIA bloc? CPI(M) refrains from seat sharing in Kerala, Bengal: Report

Otherwise, the party will be forced to fight the elections on symbols like the octopus or pangolin in future," he was quoted as saying while urging the supporters to work hard.

He reportedly said that if the CPI(M) fails to secure a certain percentage of votes and win seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha election", it will lose its national party status and even risk losing its election symbol.

ALSO READ: Lok Sabha Elections 2024 date announcement: Kerala, TN, Kerala, Karnataka to vote in 7 phases. Details here

The problem of losing the national status is that then the famed symbol of the CPM cannot be used, and then we will be at the mercy of the Election Commission who will allot a symbol," Balan was quoted by Mathrubhumi as saying.

AK Balan was speaking at the inauguration of the Kerala State Financial Enterprises Officers Union (KSFEOU) leadership workshop in Kozhikode, Kerala.

How can a political party lose its national status?

A political party is considered a national party only if any of the following conditions are fulfilled:

1. The candidates set up by the party in any four or more States in the last general elections to the Lok Sabha or to a state assembly must have secured not less than 6 per cent of the total valid votes polled in each of those States. The party must return at least four members to the House of the People in the general elections from any state of states.

ALSO READ: Ahead of 2024 polls, TMC, NCP, CPI lose national party status; here's what it means

2. In the last general elections to the Lok Sabha, the party must have won at least 2 per cent of the total number of seats in the Lok Sabha, with any fraction exceeding half being counted as one. Additionally, the party's candidates must have been elected to that House from not less than three States.

3. The party is recognised as a state party in at least four states.

CPIM's representation in Lok Sabha

The CPI(M) has only three members in the Lok Sabha  two from Tamil Nadu and one from Kerala. The party secured 1.77 per cent of votes polled in the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections.

In Kerala alone, in the 2019 general polls, the vote share of CPI(M) was 25.97, while that in Tamil Nadu was 2.38 per cent. This implies that the party's only hope this time is Kerala.

The CPI(M)'s performance in Lok Sabha Elections has degraded since 2009. In 2004, it won 43 seats; in 2009, it won 16. Then, in the 2014 Lok Sabha Elections, the party won nine seats, securing 3.28 per cent votes. In 2019, it won only three seats.

CPIM's representation in state assemblies

The CPI(M) is currently in power in Kerala. In the 2021 Kerala Assembly elections, the party won 62 of the 140 assembly seats. However, it fell short of the eight seats needed to reach the majority mark. The party had the highest vote share, at 47 per cent.

The party faced a major backlash when it did not win a single seat in the 2021 West Bengal election. In the 2016 state elections, it had won 26 seats in the 294-member assembly.

The CPI(M) was also part of the Mahagadhbandhan in Bihar. Two CPI(M) MLAs were in the coalition led by the Janata Dal (United) (JDU) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). However, Nitish Kumar snapped ties with the RJD and formed a new government in the state in January this year.

The Left party also won one seat in the 2021 Assam elections and two seats in the 2021 Tamil Nadu elections. The CPI(M) is an ally of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu.

In Tripura 2023 assembly polls, the CPI(M) won 11 seats  the third highest after the BJP and the TMP.

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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday released its seventh candidate list for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The seventh list mentioned the names of two candidates nominated from Maharashtra's Amravati and Chitradurga constituency of Karnataka.

The saffron party has fielded Navneet Rana from the Amravati Lok Sabha reserved (SC) seat in Maharashtra and Govind Karjol from Chitradurga reserved constituency (SC) in Karnataka.

Navneet Rana is a sitting member of parliament from Amravati constituency. She was elected as an independent candidate in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with the support of Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) defeating Anandrao Adsul of Shiv Sena.

Former Karnataka deputy chief minister Govind Karjol has been fielded from the Chitradurga Lok Sabha seat. BJP leader A Narayanaswamy had won the Chitradurga parliamentary seat in the 2019 general election.

Besides the seventh list of Lok Sabha candidates for Amravati and Chitradurga, the saffron party also released a list of 10 candidates for the upcoming Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections and Haryana bypoll.

The BJP named the Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to contest from the Karnal Assembly seat vacated by former chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar during the by-poll. Saini succeeded Khattar as Haryana's chief minister earlier this month.

Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections

The BJP today released a list of 10 candidates for the upcoming Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections.

The saffron party has named N Eswara Rao from Etcherla, P Vishnu Kumar Raju from Visakhapatnam North, Pangi Rajarao from Araku Valley, M Shiva Krishnam Raju from Anaparthy, Kamineni Srinivas Rao from Kaikalur and Y.S. Chowdary from Vijaywada West.

Also Read | Centre likely to hike toll tax on Delhi-Meerut Expressway from April 1

The BJP also named Bojja Roshanna from Badvel, C Adinarayana Reddy from Jammalamadugu, P.V. Parthasarathi from Adoni and Y. Satya Kumar from Dharmavaram.

The Chhattisgarh BJP today released the list of its 40-star campaigners. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP chief JP Nadda, and Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah were among others in the list.

The list shared by the Chhattisgarh unit of BJP also features Union ministers Nitin Gadkari, Smriti Irani, Dharmendra Pradhan and Arjun Munda.

Yogi Adityanath, Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Mohan Yadav, chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh, respectively, and former CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan will also hit the hustings.

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Days after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's wife, Sunita Kejriwal, addressed the media following his arrest, BJP leader and Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Wednesday compared her to Rabri Devi- wife of former Bihar CM Lalu Prasad Yadav.

Speaking with news agency ANI during Jammu rally, Thakur said that like Rabri, Sunita is making announcements for his arrested husband, and will gradually" catch hold of the Chief Minister's chair.

"When Lalu Prasad Yadav was caught in the fodder scam, Rabri Devi used to make announcements and then she caught hold of the chair gradually," the Bharatiya Janata Party leader said.

Arvind Kejriwal was arrest by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21 in connection with a money-laundering in Delhi's excise policy case.

Lambasting Arvind Kejriwal over his arrest in the excise policy case, Thakur said that the Delhi CM is in a swamp of corruption now.

Arvind Kejriwal used to talk about ethics. He used to sit on hunger strikes against Congress' corruption... He is in the swamp of corruption now. AAP's MP, health minister, deputy CM, education minister and their MLC, everyone is in jail. Their CM and the Kingpin of the liquor scam is also in jail"

The Union Minister also added that Arvind Kejriwal is too fond" of his position as a CM. "They used to demand that Sonia Gandhi should be taken into remand to get truths out... He is so fond of his position as a CM, that he is not able to leave it even while being jailed... Arvind Kejriwal is 'Kattar Be-Imaan'..."

Thakur also questioned the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers who have taken to the streets against the arrest of Delhi CM if he was the same man who agitated against Congress.

"I would like to ask one question, he is the same Arvind Kejriwal, who agitated against Congress party, today he is drowned in the quagmire of corruption...Today, the 'staunch dishonest' CM Arvind Kejriwal is behind bars, which indicates that they used to do 'showoff' politics..." he said.

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The Canadian province of Quebec had big plans of becoming the battery of the U.S. northeast" by feeding power generated from its dams and other hydro plants to millions of people in Vermont, Massachusetts and New York state. Now, dry conditions that have affected energy output worldwide are forcing one of the worlds largest hydropower producers to cut exports.

There wasnt enough snow or rain in the regions where we needed it," said Michael Sabia, chief executive of HydroQuebec, the provincial utility. We cant make it rain, as much as wed like to."

Elsewhere, China, India and the U.S. in 2023 all recorded decreases in their hydro production for the same reason, contributing to a record global decline in hydropower generation, according to the International Energy Agency. Many countries resorted to fossil-fuel electricity generation to make up for the hydro shortfall, which drove up carbon-dioxide emissions by 170 megatonnes in 2023, roughly equal to the annual emissions from 40 million gas-powered cars.

Drought is a big concern," said Lei Xie, a researcher with the International Hydropower Association, a London-based nonprofit group. She said it is becoming more difficult for forecasters to model the extremes of climate change, and predict from year-to-year how much electricity local hydroelectric systems will generate.

Canada bet heavily on hydro as a means of cleaning up its carbon footprint; it is the third-largest hydroelectricity producer in the world. But with the climate becoming markedly drier in recent years, Canadas utilities are now investing hundreds of billions of dollars to diversify their grids, in some cases leaning on power plants fueled by gas or coal to meet mushrooming demand.

Hydro power from the thousands of rivers and streams that crisscross the country normally provides about 60% of the countrys electricity. The countrys resources are enormous. The water reservoirs in Quebec alone collectively cover more than 4,600 square miles, almost double the area of Delaware.

But drought conditions extending from the west coast to the east are so bad that rivers and lakes in parts of Canada are drying up. Provincial authorities have cut back on exports, and, in some cases, turned to backup generators.

Etienne Boucher, a professor at the University of Quebec in Montreal, said water flows into Quebecs reservoirs fell far below the mean levels observed between 1980 and 2000.

While one bad year shouldnt cause too much worry, the north often has periods of persistent drought, and climate change could make those dry periods much worse, threatening the sustainability of Quebecs hydro supply, said Boucher.

Theres still a lot of uncertainty when predicting water flows in the north," he said. The past is becoming less of a good analogue for what is going to occur in the future."

The impact threatens to undermine Canadas reputation as a stable provider of clean and sustainable energy and risks derailing the countrys efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Canada has historically been seen as a hydroelectricity superpower, but this narrative has shifted," said John Pomeroy, a director at the University of Saskatchewans Centre for Hydrology, which studies water flows and climate change. In parts of the country, conditions are truly disastrous."

The province of British Columbia, Canadas second-largest hydro producer, has been in a drought since the middle of 2022. Water levels in the giant reserves in the northern and southeastern regions of British Columbia have fallen because there has been less snow in the winter and less rain in the spring, forcing the province to conserve water, said a spokesman for BC Hydro, the provincial utility.

In the 142-mile long Arrow Lakes Reservoir, which is part of the Columbia River system that provides almost half of the provinces power, waters this past summer receded to reveal old building foundations and the rusted husks of tractors that were drowned when the area was flooded in 1961, said Victoria Youmans, a resident of the village of Nakusp, which sits on the eastern shore of the lake.

With water levels so low, BC Hydro had to import almost one-fifth of the power residents and businesses used in 2023 from the neighboring province of Alberta and U.S. states from across the border, much of it produced by fossil fuels.

It has been a persistent problem. Despite having a quarter of all of Canadas fresh flowing water within its territory, the province has had to import power for seven out of the last 15 years, according to David Hughes, the founder of Global Sustainability Research, a consulting company.

Although some of the most severe global effects are tied to the short-term effects of El Ninoa climate pattern that often ushers in periods of intense droughtparts of Canada, especially in the north, have been struggling with an extended, multiyear decline in the critical water sources such as mountain snowpacks that feed hydro reservoirs.

Roughly 70% of Canada was abnormally dry or in moderate to exceptional drought at the end of January, according to the Government of Canada. Dry conditions have strained the biggest hydroelectric utilities in the country in British Columbia, Manitoba and Quebec, provinces where residents and businesses get almost all their power from hydro.

Downstream from British Columbia, the province of Manitoba in the fall fired up a natural gas power plant it normally only uses during the coldest winter months to make up for a shortfall in hydro production.

Canadas largest hydro producer, Quebec, has staked much of its economic future on its ability to deliver clean energy to residents and businesses. The province has pitched itself to emissions-conscious battery manufacturers and mining companies as a provider of clean electricity with rates that are among the lowest in North America.

It has also been hoping to export power to power-hungry U.S. states, marketing itself as a virtually unparalleled provider of abundant and reliable renewable power. The province has signed long-term contracts with Massachusetts and New York state to provide roughly 20 terawatt hours of power to the states, enough to provide electricity to 1.6 million homes for a year.

The province also makes money by selling extra energy on short-term spot markets, but a lack of snow and rainfall in the northern reaches of the province lowered water levels in Quebecs massive reservoirs, which forced the province to cut the amount it sold on those markets, costing it roughly $400 million in lost revenues from those sales last year, an 18% decrease from 2022.

Sabia, the Hydro-Quebec CEO, said that dry conditions in the province arent yet at crisis levels, but he also noted that its existing hydro capacity, already among the highest in the world, isnt enough to meet growing demand. To expand the grid and keep a promise to become a net-zero emissions jurisdiction by 2050, the province has said it would invest more than $80 billion over the next decade to boost capacity across a range of sustainable power sources and install wind turbines, solar farms, upgrade existing hydro dams and build new ones.

Its a lot of money," said Douglas Offerman, an analyst with Fitch Ratings. Lower exports combined with pressure to tap new power sources is threatening to stretch government balance sheets already pressured by an aging population and the need to upgrade social services and urban infrastructure.

Theyre adding a big-ticket item to an already long list of priorities," Offerman said.

Write to Vipal Monga at vipal.monga@wsj.com
Come September, the hours of daylight and darkness in Iceland are briefly equal as summer recedes and the shadow of winter advances across the island. The wind gets a steely edge, stirring up white caps in the surrounding seas and lathering clouds and fog over mossy hillocks and volcanic rock formations like swirls of marshmallow fluff.

Sensing the change of season, some 380,000 sheep (about one for every Icelander) begin to descend from the highlands after a summer of free-range gorging on grass, forbs (herbaceous flowering plants) and berries. The sheep flow like a woolly waterfall, driven by volunteer shepherds, some on foot, others riding diminutive and adorably shaggy Icelandic horses.

Icelands sheep farmers release their flocks into the wild every May, just after lambing season, and rely on the community to come together to retrieve and sort them before winter arrives.

Its not just about the sheep, its also very important socially for everyone involved," says Palina Axelsdottir Njarvik, whose family has been sheep-farming for seven generations and whose @farmlifeiceland has a devoted following on Instagram.

Ninth-century tradition

Rettir, or the annual sheep sorting, brings together friends, family, neighbors and some intrepid tourists in a cooperative tradition that dates back to Viking times. According to Icelandic Lamb, an association representing local sheep farmers, Vikings brought sheep to the island in the ninth century and the breed has changed little since.

Back then, finding your flock at the end of summer meant you could survive the winter. Every part of the sheep was used: wool, meat, bones. Even the dung was burned for heating.

While rettir remain mostly insular, local events, a handful of tour companies offer rettir packages. For example, Nupshestar and Ishestar, both family-run businesses, offer horseback-riding excursions where experienced riders can help drive the sheep the last leg of their journey before sorting. Traveo Iceland offers customized, multiday guided and self-guided tours where you are more spectator than active participant.

Or you can just drive around Iceland in September and youll likely stumble on rettir. Just follow the sheep.

There are around 1,400 sheep farmers in Iceland, most with flocks under 200 head. Collectively they produced around 7,400 metric tons of lamb meat last year, up 30% from 20 years ago, despite fewer sheep overall. Farmers attribute the higher yields to happy sheep" as well as an astonishingly data-driven breeding program.

Iceland is one of the few countries in the world that has genealogy data on almost every sheep. Icelandic wool is also now fetching higher prices than before the pandemic, thanks in part to the legions who took up knitting during lockdowns. Little wonder the Icelandic word for sheep, fe, also means money.

Schools out

Given the historical, financial, practical and symbolic importance of sheep in Iceland, rettir have local significance even for those who dont own any sheep. Schools and businesses in sheep-farming regions close so everyone can turn out and help.

Many in the capital city of Reykjavik, where the majority of Icelands population lives, take off work to help friends or family members who have farms. Or, they lend a hand at farms where they (or their parents or grandparents) might have worked as teenagers during summers.

Most hotels along the fabled Ring Road, which encircles the island, can advise you on where to find local rettir. There are also a range of rural guesthouses listed on Airbnb and Vrbo (everyone in Iceland it seems has a side hustle).

Hosts tend to be more than happy to give you directions and offer advice, if not invite you to join them for rettir festivities, which include rettaballs where there is lots of drinking, singing, dancing, and feasting on smoked lamb and lamb stew.

Its always nice to get extra people and horses to help us," says Hjordis Olafsdottir, a research scientist in Reykjavik who grew up on a farm. She takes off work every year to ride horses into the interior to gather sheep. Outsiders typically arent allowed on these arduous and highly orchestrated expeditions (think walkie-talkies, rough terrain, dense fog and 14-hour days).

But tourists, on horseback or on foot, are welcome to help drive the sheep the last few miles to the sorting pens, provided they politely ask permission and follow directions.

How it works

There are about 180 rettir held throughout Iceland every September. Times and locations are published in late August in Bndablai, a local farming newspaper. How it works is the sheep are driven down from the highlands, often onto paved roadways for the final stretch to the sorting pens, known as dilkur.

Traffic can be backed up for hours as the sheep are given the right of way. Dilkurthe oldest of which are made of turf and volcanic rockshave a central containment area with several compartments radiating out like sun rays or pieces of pie. Each compartment belongs to a different farmer.

The sheep are driven, maybe 1,500 at a time, into the hub where they are identified by a notch on their ear or ear tag. Then they are routed, with varying amounts of physical force, through little doors leading to the appropriate pie-shaped partition.

Many farmers know their own sheep simply by looking at them, like you could probably pick out your golden retriever if mixed up in a pack of other golden retrievers. And just as your golden retriever might go right to you, many sheep toddle willingly to the appropriate farmer.

During the sorting, spectators sit on the walls of the dilkur or hang over the fence railings, tipping flasks to stave of the chill and eating sandwiches or kleina, the Icelandic version of a cruller. Red-cheeked children in colorful parkas dash around the perimeter gleefully stomping in puddles. Adolescent boys jump in the ring where obstinate sheep thwart their displays of manhood Note: Both rams and ewes have curved horns that they arent afraid to use.

Jealous of their tradition, some Icelanders are ambivalent about outsiders attending rettir, particularly tourists who show up briefly to snap pictures to post on social media and have a knack for getting in the way. You can easily spot them," says Olafsdottir.

They dress up and have perfect makeup, she says, as opposed to locals, some of whom, like herself, are weary and unkempt having spent the previous several nights camping in the spare mountain huts that serve as rest stations for sheep-scouting parties.

The Good Shepherd

While certainly an Instagram-worthy spectacle, visitors should keep in mind that for Icelanders, rettir have emotional and even spiritual significance. It aligns with the Icelandic ethic of taking care of their own, says pastor Axel Arnason Njarvik, father of the sheep blogger Palina Njarvik.

You can see the part of the Good Shepherd in rescue teams that turn out when we have catastrophic events: avalanches, snow storms, earthquakes, volcanoes," he says. They are not paid but are driven by this spirit of leaving no one behind."

The annual rettir has become emblematic of a disappearing way of life. The number of sheep in Iceland is less than half what it was in 1980. Its partly due to declining lamb consumption but also each generation of Icelanders is having fewer children and those children are deciding to pursue more stable and less physically demanding careers.

The next generation in my family is only three people," says Njarvik. One is an engineer, one is a doctor, and I studied psychology so we all chose a different path." She works for a human-resources company in Reykjavik but returns home often to pitch in. I think it makes everyone a little sad," she says. But we will keep the farm, and we will have sheep, but we wont be full-time farmers."

For now, at least, the rettir tradition continues and is uniquely Icelandic in both practice and spirit.
The bridge is an important link in the regions transportation infrastructure, and its collapse is expected to snarl commuter traffic and disrupt a vital shipping port.
Chattanooga man one of three suspects arrested after pursuit of stolen Kia SUVs by Scottsboro police
Struggling private Birmingham-Southern College in Alabama says it will close at end of May

The private liberal arts school Birmingham-Southern College in Alabama has announced it will close at the end of May
The container ship Dali was not being piloted by its own crew, but by local pilots who are used specifically to avoid accidents like the one that occurred early Tuesday morning.
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge will have major consequences for the ports workforce and the states economy for the foreseeable future.
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Shortly after the Longford Fine Gael executive announced the final details of their local elections line-up a bombshell was dropped with the potential to cause a serious headache for the party's strategy in the Ballymahon Municipal District.

At the end of last year it was announced that FG's third outgoing councillor in the Ballymahon MD area, Lanesboro-based Cllr Ger Farrell, wasn't contesting the forthcoming election and at a selection convention in Abbeyshrule last December, Martin Skelly defeated Cllr Farrell's sister Lorraine and Ballymahon's Grainne Moffitt in a vote to gain his place on the election ticket.

Within a matter of hours of the party posting their final line up to contest the election, Cllr Gerard Farrell announced his resignation from Fine Gael and signalled his intention to stand as an Independent candidate.

The Farrell family has a long legacy of political service. Gerard's father, Adie, engaged in a political career that spanned the best part of 40 years, and before that Adie's father, Ger, was also a council representative.

My sister Lorraine contested the party convention in November and narrowly lost out. Since then a number of local supporters have approached us and suggested I run as an independent, Cllr Farrell told the Leader.

Also read: Former Longford & Leinster GAA Chairperson Martin Skelly selected on Fine Gaels team in Ballymahon MD

The newly minted Independent candidate says it was not a decision he took lightly: We sent a letter through our local FG branch outlining the statistics of the Farrell family. We've been consistently getting votes for the last 60 years, he said.

Those six decades of local representation have all been under the banner of the Fine Gael party. Cllr Farrell goes on the hustings in 2024 without a party machine behind him.

I'm a councillor for 10 years, he says of the task ahead, I work for any person that wants me to do anything. I work for the local community and the local people, like my father before me. We put the community and the people first and the party after that.

Cllr Farrell says leaving behind the affiliations will not be difficult: We've had a good association with Fine Gael for a long number of years, but they weren't number one. The community and the people in the community were always number one. I've never been at a Fine Gael Ard Fheis and my father was probably only at two or three of them.

Working with the local community is what's important to us. Getting good things done for the community, he said.

Also read: Longford Fine Gael add two new candidates to local elections line-up

The competition for seats in the Ballymahon MD will be quite stiff.

All six sitting councillors, Cllr Paul Ross (FG), Cllr Pat OToole (FF), Cllr Mick Cahill (FF), Cllr Colm Murray (FG), Cllr Gerard Farrell and Cllr Mark Casey (Ind), are contesting for their seats, with Martin Skelly (FG), Sean Mimnagh (FF) and John Rooney (Sinn Fein) also in the race and the possibility of other candidates to emerge in the weeks ahead.

The increase in the county's population in the last five years will also be a factor.

It's going to be a difficult fight for everybody. There are quite a number of candidates in the field now. I've done a lot of good work in this area here. I've a good relationship with my colleagues in Longford County Council. Lanesboro needs a strong representative, I feel I'm definitely that strong representative, Cllr Farrell concluded.
A man accused of engaging in money-laundering activity has had his case adjourned to May of this year, when a probation report is expected to be furnished to the court.

Lucky Igbinogun (22), of 17 the Hollows, Farnagh Hill, Longford, appeared before Judge Bernadette Owens last week, charged with handling property that was the proceeds of criminal conduct.

That property amounted to 2,100, which was withdrawn from an ATM machine in Longford town on January 24, 2020, in two instalments - the first instalment was 1,500 and the second amount was 600, using the account and bank card of a co-accused.

That co-accused, who appeared before the courts in December, is also charged with the transferring or handling of 16,500.34 on the same date in an invoice redirection fraud. The injured party, the court heard, was based in the Czech Republic.

Solicitor for Mr Igbinogun, Ms Brid Mimnagh, said her client was the mule in this joint enterprise between the two co-accused.

He got 60 for doing this, she said.

Sgt Mark Mahon, for the state, told the court that Mr Igbinogun has two previous convictions - one for a section six public order offence and one for a Covid-related offence, but said he would be known to the court.

Judge Owens directed a probation report and put the case back to May 7, 2024, when Mr Igbinoguns co-accused is also due to reappear.
Kanyinsola Richard-Akinyemi from Meanscoil Mhuire, Longford competed at the national finals of the 16th All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad (AILO) in Dublin City University (DCU) recently.

Run by ADAPT, the world-leading SFI Research Centre for AI-Driven Digital Content Technology, the contest challenges secondary school students to apply logic and reasoning skills to solve complex puzzles in unfamiliar languages.

The 104 national finalists, from 45 schools in 20 counties, have come through preliminary rounds held in schools all over the island in January.

More than 3,500 students registered for this years contest.

Also read: Longford community pays tribute to retiring national school principal

Competing in individual and team rounds, the finalists are faced with anything from deciphering ancient Norse scripts about Thor to working out unusual counting systems such as Bukiyip where there are two counting systems, depending on what you are counting!

The AILO finals see teenagers solve puzzles that require lateral thinking skills and the ability to think outside the box. Students must analyse the language data they are given to work out the rules of the new language. These transferable skills are critical in preparing young people for a wide range of careers in computing, linguistics and language.

Also read: North Longford and Arva Credit Union in national quiz final for first time

Four winners from today will go on to represent Ireland at the International Linguistics Olympiad held in Brazil in July.

The results of the National Final of the All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad will be released shortly.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: March 27 2024

Darin Semple lured Rafael Delossantos to Baldwin for apparent marijuana deal; shot and killed him.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced a Freeport man was convicted today for his role in the October 2021 murder of a 23-year-old man in Baldwin.

Darin Semple, 22, of Freeport, was convicted Monday after a jury trial before Judge Helene Gugerty of Murder in the Second Degree (an A-I felony); Robbery in the First Degree (a B violent felony); and Robbery in the Second Degree (a C violent felony). Semple is due back in court for sentencing on May 3, 2024, and faces up to 25 years to life in prison.

Darin Semple used a planned marijuana deal as the lure to ambush and kill 23-year-old Rafael Delossantos on a Baldwin street, shooting him twice in his car and making off with the marijuana, said DA Donnelly. Rafael was a young man with a family who loved him. That family endured his loss and sat every day during this defendants trial to ensure justice was done. We thank the jury for their service and verdict in this case, and we continue to keep Rafaels family in our thoughts.

DA Donnelly said that on October 25, 2021, at approximately 1:51 p.m. on Victoria Street in Baldwin, Semple, co-defendant Devin Obleanis, and another unapprehended suspect, met with 23-year-old Rafael Delossantos. Obleanis text messaged the victim and agreed to meet with the intention to buy marijuana.

The defendants pulled up behind the victim in their car, entered the victims vehicle and held Delossantos at gunpoint. The three defendants then stole the marijuana and shot the victim two times before fleeing. Delossantos died as a result of his injuries.

Semple and Obleanis were both arrested on the Meadowbrook Parkway in North Merrick by detectives of the Nassau County Police Departments Homicide Squad and the Bureau of Special Operations on December 10, 2021.

The investigation into the unapprehended suspect is ongoing.

Obleanis, 22, of Central Islip, was arraigned on March 25, 2022, before Judge Gugerty and charged with Murder in the Second Degree; Robbery in the First Degree; and Robbery in the Second Degree.

Obleanis pleaded guilty on September 9, 2022, and is due back in court for sentencing on April 15, 2024.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: March 27 2024

A 50-year-old male operating a 2015 Honda motorcycle when he was struck by a 43-year-old male operating a 2020 Toyota, cops say.

The Fourth Squad reports on an Auto Accident that occurred on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 6:20 pm in Oceanside.

According to Detectives, a 50-year-old male operating a 2015 Honda motorcycle, was traveling near the intersection of South Long Beach Road and Seitz Avenue when he was struck by a 43-year-old male operating a 2020 Toyota. As a result of the collision, the motorcyclist suffered multiple injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital.
Israel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant meeting with Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on March 26. (Ariel Hermoni/Israel Ministry of Defense)

Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant arrived in Washington for a multi-day visit for meetings with Secretary of State Antony Blinken, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, CIA Director Bill Burns. Gallants visit occurs at a tense time for US-Israeli relations, after the US abstained from a UN Security Council vote calling for a ceasefire and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu subsequently cancelled a trip to Washington by senior Israeli leaders including Israels National Security Council head Tzachi Hanegbi and Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer.

This meant that Gallants trip, which is important for planning Israels operations in Rafah in southern Gaza and discussing US arms sales to Israel, does not dovetail with a wider visit by Israeli officials. It also highlights the divides between Gallants role in the war effort and the political infighting in Israels War Cabinet. For example, Gallant unveiled in January a plan for the day after in Gaza while the Prime Minister unveiled a plan in February.

I am traveling to the United States today upon invitation by the U.S. government. This is a very important trip during which I will meet with a series of senior U.S. officials, firstly the Secretary of Defense, as well as the Secretary of State, National Security Advisor, and Director of the CIA, Gallant said on the eve of his trip on March 24. He said the visit would focus on preserving Israels qualitative military edge (QME), a reference to Israel acquiring more munitions and warplanes. Israel is already set to acquire much-needed CH-53K heavy lifter helicopters and KC-46 refuelers and has sought to increase its number of F-35s, F-15s, and Apache helicopters.

Gallants visit coincides with a marked uptick in pressure from the US on Israel to not go into Rafah, the last major Hamas stronghold in Gaza. This as Hamas resumed rocket fire after a two-month hiatus, targeting the Israeli coastal city of Ashdod. Gallant will also address Israels security needs in the north, where Hezbollah has continued to carry out attacks, most recently targeting the Israeli base on Mount Meron on March 26. I will also raise the growing threats on our northern border, and our commitment to returning displaced communities to their homes, Gallant said.

Gallant believes that the outcome of the war in Gaza and on other fronts will shape the region for years to come. He has said that Israels goal is to destroy Hamas as a military and governing authority in Gaza. Speaking with Blinken he emphasized that Israel will not cease operating in Gaza until the return of all the hostages. Only a decisive victory will bring to an end of this war, Gallants office said in a statement. Meeting with Austin on March 26, Gallant noted that Israel is facing attacks from seven different fronts, referring to Gaza, the Red Sea, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and apparently Iraq and Iran. The Israeli Defense Minister noted that Hamas leader Ismael Haniyeh was travelling to Iran this week to meet Irans leaders. Gallant pointed to this to reiterate that the Islamic Republic of Iran is behind the attacks on Israel from the numerous fronts he referenced.

While Gallant was in Washington, the IDF announced that fifty launches were carried out from Lebanon targeting an IDF base on Mount Meron. IDF fighter jets struck a landing area and several military structures inside a military compound used by Hezbollahs aerial unit in the area of Tell Wardeen, deep inside Lebanese territory, the IDF said. Israels retaliation sent a message that an escalation of this magnitude would be responded to with deeper raids conducted by Israel.

Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the acting news editor and senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post.
Voters across all age groups and levels of education, and regardless of party loyalty, say that access to affordable housing is a major concern in Luxembourg

Voters across all age groups and levels of education, and regardless of party loyalty, say that access to affordable housing is a major concern in Luxembourg  Photo credit: Marc Wilwert

Voters across all age groups and levels of education, and regardless of party loyalty, say that access to affordable housing is a major concern in Luxembourg  Photo credit: Marc Wilwert

Access to affordable housing is a major concern among Luxembourg voters, the March 2024 Politmonitor poll reveals, followed by poverty, traffic, rising prices and social cohesion.

Asked to what extent they worry about a number of specific issues in Luxembourg, housing came out top, with 73% of voters in the Politmonitor survey saying it was a concern. That is slightly fewer than in a similar poll conducted in November 2022, when 75% were worried about their access to affordable housing.

The poll, conducted by Ilres for the Luxemburger Wort and broadcaster RTL Letzebuerg between 4 and 14 March, surveyed 1,007 Luxembourg residents aged 18 and over who are entitled to vote in parliamentary elections.

Even though concern about housing was most prevalent among young voters under the age of 34, it worried all ages and people with every level of education, spreading across voters from all four major political parties  although it was of most concern to LSAP and Dei Greng supporters.

Other major concerns included the gap between the rich and poor, the increase in traffic, and the increase in prices, all of which affect at least half of those polled. However, in all of those cases the issue was not deemed as important as it was 18 months ago.

Right-wing extremism a growing concern

But a potential increase in right-wing extremism has become a growing concern for voters  with 46% now saying they are worried about it compared to 38% in November 2022. Worries about social cohesion, the pensions system and job security were also on the rise.

The consequences of climate change and tax justice both also remain major concerns, although not to the same extent as in 2022.

The poll also asked participants to assess the overall performance of the CSV-DP government that came into power last November. The majority, 56%, had a positive opinion of the governments work so far, with 9% even saying it is doing a very good job. Only 28% said the coalition has performed poorly in its first four months in office, although a significant proportion of voters - 16% - expressed no opinion.

The vast majority of voters, 82%, also said their current financial situation is positive, with 13% saying it had improved over the last six months while 26% said that their personal finances had worsened over the last six months and 60% said they had experienced no change in their fortune.

Three quarters of voters said they would be in favour of high earners contributing more towards the pension system, and 78% said that fiscal incentives should be used to encourage more people to take up private pensions to supplement their state pension. But just 35% would be in favour of a universal increase in state pensions contributions and only 28% said that raising the retirement age is a solution to any future pensions fund shortfall.

Begging ban divides opinion

As for the issue that seemed to dominate the headlines during the first 100 days of the new governments tenure, 51% of those polled said that they were not in favour of the begging ban imposed in Luxembourg City, with 44% in favour. Unsurprisingly the ban found favour with the majority of CSV and DP voters (60% and 61% respectively), while 75% of LSAP voters were opposed to the ban.

Furthermore, 44% of voters said the government did not respect the law in imposing the ban, while just 33% thought the way they went about the ban was legal.
Kirchberg housing project will focus on sustainable housing and environmental protection

First steps for Kuebebierg site, the capitals new district

A new district is to be built on the Kuebebierg in Kirchberg.

A new district is to be built on the Kuebebierg in Kirchberg.

A new district is to be built on the Kuebebierg in Kirchberg.

The first steps on the development of Luxembourg Citys new housing project, the Kuebebierg, have gotten underway ahead of the initial batch of 3,000 homes being built on the site.

The new district in the Kirchberg area will eventually be home to up to 7,000 people, with a focus on environmentally-friendly living spaces.

A total of 129 trees have already been planted on the 33-hectare site, which belongs to the Fonds Kirchberg.

The diggers to lay the foundations of the new homes have not yet arrived, but work is already underway on the site. Soundings are currently being taken to determine the nature of the subsoil.

The site is badly needed given the demand for housing in the city, said Luxembourg City Mayor Lydie Polfer.

Over the last ten years, the population of the City of Luxembourg has increased by 30%, Polfer said on Tuesday during a visit by a delegation of officials and political representatives to Kuebebierg.



The new district will eventually be served by the tram, which the authorities say will make it possible to dispense with cars on the site to a large extent.

Also read:

New Kirchberg development to house 7,000 people

We now want things to move forward quickly, Transport Minister Yuriko Backes said.

It is hoped that a development plan for the site will be approved before the end of the year, said Polfer.

Geothermal heating

The development will be heated by geothermal energy, with boreholes up to 200 metres deep in the process of being drilled.

The district will not require gas heating, said Marc Widong, director of the Fonds Kirchberg.

We're in the process of finding out what temperature the subsoil is at. In future, there should be 20 geothermal hubs supplying a district heating network, he added.

1 / 7 The new district covers an area of 33 hectares  Photo credit: Anouk Antony

2 / 7 In future, there will be an urban farm next to the buildings  Photo credit: Anouk Antony

3 / 7 The trees have already been planted  Photo credit: Anouk Antony

4 / 7 The Kuebebierg is to become a district for short distances  Photo credit: Anouk Antony

5 / 7 On Tuesday, the last of the 130 trees planted on the site was planted.  Photo credit: Anouk Antony

6 / 7 It is an apple tree of a traditional Luxembourg variety.  Photo credit: Anouk Antony

7 / 7 Yuriko Backes (DP), Minister for Mobility and Public Works, explains the concept of mobility.  Photo credit: Anouk Antony















It's not just the method of heating that will be different. The entire site is surrounded by a protected area, which will be maintained in the future, according to the Fonds Kirchberg.

The urban planning of the Kuebebierg will respect the natural elements present on the site, the Fonds Kirchberg said in a press release.

An urban farm and a large park

Nature will also continue to play an essential role. After all, birds and bats have always lived side by side on the Kuebebierg.

The newly planted trees are therefore also a compensatory measure. Some of the hedges have already been removed, with just the wood left standing. These islands of dead wood now serve as a temporary habitat for wildlife until the new trees have grown.

An open space of one-hectare is also set to remain untouched. This will be like the Kinnekswiss meadow in the Luxembourg City park, but on a smaller scale, according to Widong.

We want to grow mushrooms, herbs, flowers and field vegetables on the Kuebebierg. Axel Barreau Urban farm manager

But the real highlight of the new district will be something quite different. Farming will still be practised on the Kuebebierg, but in a more urban style. The Fonds has reached an agreement with the company Aurel & Axel, said Widong.

We want to grow mushrooms, herbs, flowers and field vegetables on the Kuebebierg, said Axel Barreau, co-founder of Aurel & Axel.

However, new farming techniques will be deployed, including hydroponics - whereby plants are grown without using soil - and vertical farming, Barreau said.

The first containers to enable work to begin on the farm will be delivered early next year, he added.

(This article was originally published by Luxemburger Wort. Translation and editing by Duncan Roberts)
If youre looking to get a copy of Adobe InDesign for Mac, and wondering how and where to download it, this article contains everything you need to know. Also, we explore whether you can get InDesign for free.

What is Adobe InDesign?

InDesign is Adobes design software for magazine and other publication-style layouts. You can put together great-looking brochures, newsletters, posters and of course longer-form magazines, all with powerful tools to make everything look cool and professional. It comes with plenty of tutorials to get you up and running, plus 100GB of cloud storage for your creations.

Can I get InDesign for free?

Yes, but only for a limited period: Adobe offers a 7-day free trial allowing you to test out the package to see if its what youre after. And this gives you access to the full version, not a feature-limited one, so its well worth giving it a go even if you intend to buy the software later.

To grab the free trial, go to the InDesign page on the Adobe site (theres a separate UK page) and click the Free Trial button next to Buy Now. Youll need to create or sign into an Adobe account to be able to use the software, but this is easy to do when youre at the checkout.

Foundry Foundry Foundry

How much does InDesign cost?

$22.99/21.98 per month (if you commit to a year-long subscription)

(if you commit to a year-long subscription) $34.49/32.98 per month (if you want to be able to cancel at any time)

(if you want to be able to cancel at any time) $263.88/262.51 per year (pre-paid)

If you want ongoing use of the full version of the software, youll need to sign up to one of Adobes various subscription tiers for Creative Cloud. Gone are the days when you could pick up a boxed copy of the software and have it for years; now Adobe insists upon a monthly charge. If this sounds a little daunting, you might be reassured to hear that the software does get regular updates, and any new features are immediately added to your version of InDesign. Thats the good part of the subscription approach.

If you go to the main page for Creative Cloud, it can be tricky finding the subscriptions that just come with InDesign. Your best bet is to visit the InDesign product page (or the UK equivalent) and click the Buy Now button.

At time of writing, the standalone cost for InDesign is $22.99/21.98 per month if you sign up for a year-long subscription. (Thats $275.88/263.76 in total.)

If youre prepared to pay up front for the whole year, then it costs a little less: $263.88/262.51. On the other hand, theres also the option to have a rolling monthly subscription, where you can cancel at any time, but that costs more: $34.49/32.98 per month. (That would work out as $413.88/395.76 if you kept up the subscription for a year.) The latter option might work for you if you only need InDesign temporarily, but for longer than the free trial lasts.

Alternatively, if you want to use other Adobe products alongside InDesign, then a Creative Cloud subscription (heres the UK page) offers access to a wide range of Adobe software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro and Acrobat Pro. Obviously, the price is somewhat higher for this comprehensive package, with the current cost coming in at $59.99/56.98 (annual, paid monthly), $659.88/656.21 (annual, paid up-front) or $89.99/85.48 (monthly, cancel any time).

To see all the pricing for the various apps in Creative Cloud read: Adobe Creative Cloud pricing: How to get the best deal.

Foundry Foundry Foundry

Is there a student discount for InDesign?

Yes. The Student and Teachers subscription (click the tab with this label rather than Individuals) offers a huge discount over the normal prices. You cant get a student subscription solely for InDesign, but instead Adobe knocks the price off the Creative Cloud tier so that its actually cheaper than just paying for the individual software. With the discount, you can get Creative Cloud (with more than 20 software titles, including InDesign and Photoshop) for $19.99/16.24 (annual, paid monthly) or $239.88/196.27 (annual, paid up-front).

Adobe offers deals for students at certain times of the year.

Where to buy InDesign and get the best price

You can buy and download InDesign direct from Adobe. (Heres the UK page.) From time to time you can save money by buying direct, with Adobe offering deals at certain times of the year, such as up to 40% off for Black Friday.

If youre looking for a good deal on the full Creative Cloud subscription, try the Adobe page on Amazon (or here for Amazon UK), where we often see the prices cut. At time of writing Amazon has a solid 23% discount for the 12-month option in the U.S. ($507.99), and a brilliant 42% discount in the U.K. (378.99). Amazons prices change regularly, however, so its worth taking a look to see if the price is better when youre shopping.

You can also sign up for a rolling monthly subscription at Amazon, although thats currently the same price in the U.S. as if you bought direct: $89.99. But even if you manage to snag a good deal, its important to remember to cancel before it auto-renews if you only plan to use it for one or two months. This option is not available in the U.K.

Are there any good alternatives to InDesign?

If youre not desperate to pledge fealty to Adobe, there are some decent alternatives that can help you create publications on your Mac. Perhaps our favourite comes from Affinity, which makes the excellent Photoshop alternative Affinity Photo 2. Its InDesign rival comes in the form of Affinity Publisher 2, which features a huge range of tools to make designs that really pop. Best of all is the price, which is fantastic for the powerful software youll be getting.

Affinity Publisher 2 will set you back $69.99/67.99, which is a one-off payment with no subscription required. The excellent iPad version, meanwhile, can be picked up for $18.49/17.99 with the same lack of strings attached. (And in both cases, at time of writing theres a substantial discount, bringing those prices down to $48.99/47.49 and $12.99/12.49 respectively. We dont know if that deal will still be available by the time you read this.)

The best value remains Affinitys V2 Universal license, which includes all three Affinity productsDesigner 2, Photo 2 and Publisher 2on all platforms (Mac, iPad and Windows) for $164.99/159.99 with nothing extra to pay. (And again, at time of writing theres a discount on that price.)

But there are plenty of other InDesign alternatives out there. Other solid choices for include VivaDesigner, QuarkXpress and Swift Publisher.

Related reading:
Cooperation with China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has significantly contributed to the betterment of the lives of ordinary Ethiopians, Ethiopian experts have said. ADDIS ABABA, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Cooperation with China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has significantly contributed to the betterment of the lives of ordinary Ethiopians, Ethiopian experts have said. Ethiopia, as one of the growing list of countries cooperating with China under the BRI, has witnessed the initiative's significant contribution in terms of meaningfully transforming the lives of millions of Ethiopians, said Melaku Mulualem, a senior international relations and diplomacy researcher at Ethiopia's Institute of Foreign Affairs. "The BRI has improved the lives of many Ethiopians. Many Ethiopians are working on various BRI projects, including industrial parks, railway stations, highway and expressway constructions, digital networking sectors, and many others. These projects are also hugely contributing to our economy," said Mulualem. Mulualem said cooperation with China in implementing the BRI over the past decade has contributed to the realization of various infrastructure projects in Ethiopia while injecting a much-needed impetus to the development of the manufacturing sector, ultimately contributing to the country's economic growth and the creation of abundant job opportunities for Ethiopian youth. "The BRI is a matter of interconnectedness through infrastructure development and people-to-people relations. Through this global initiative, many Ethiopians have got job opportunities," he said. Citing a well-known Chinese saying that goes "If you want to get rich, you must first build roads," Mulualem said completed large-scale Chinese-built infrastructure projects are currently advancing Ethiopia's domestic and regional integration. He declared these infrastructure projects have "facilitated fast transport for ordinary Ethiopians, businesspeople, as well as importers and exporters through ports in Djibouti." He singled out the 752.7-km Ethiopia-Djibouti railway, the construction of a dozen industrial parks in different regions of Ethiopia, as well as abundant scholarship opportunities benefiting thousands of Ethiopian students as part of the wider knowledge and skill transfer endeavor under the BRI. He said the success of these projects vividly illustrates the multifaceted benefits of jointly building high-quality BRI projects. Recent data from the Ethiopian government also support his assertion. Since the Chinese-built Ethiopia-Djibouti railway's official commercial operation in January 2018, the railway had operated 1,824 passenger trains with nearly 530,900 passengers, and 6,133 cargo trains with about 7,328,500 tonnes of cargo as of June 2023. The railway, often regarded as Africa's first modern cross-border electrified railway, also witnessed its total operating revenue maintaining an average annual growth rate of more than 35 percent. The cooperation with China under the BRI is also propelling Africa's second-most populous country's aspiration of becoming a manufacturing hub and a lower-middle income economy shortly through the large-scale development of industrial parks across the country. Chinese-built industry parks are currently playing an important role in attracting international investors to the East African country. Recalling his years of experience in China, Asnake Getie Asmare, an Ethiopian alumnus from China's Beijing Normal University and currently engaged in large-scale telecommunication infrastructure development initiatives in Ethiopia, argued that the BRI is serving as a platform for Ethiopia and other BRI member countries to benefit from China's vast developmental advancements. Asmare said the BRI cooperation has been "greatly supporting Ethiopia's economic growth through infrastructure development, such as roads, railways, industrial parks, power and telecom sector, among others." He said the BRI cooperation with China has facilitated Ethiopia's integration and connectivity with its neighboring countries while augmenting employment and education opportunities for the country's burgeoning youth population, much-needed transfer of technology and knowledge, and cultural exchanges. Since its inception in 2013, the BRI, which covers an extensive range of development sectors, has won plaudits from experts and policymakers, who are calling for further strengthening the cooperation as the initiative embarks on its second-decade implementation. "I expect that cooperation between China and Ethiopia under the BRI will advance in mutual development, people-to-people relationship, and cooperation in global issues of mutual interest," Asmare said. In addition to further expanding their mutually beneficial cooperation approach in large-scale investments and infrastructure development endeavors, Asmare said the two friendly countries also need to expand their BRI cooperation across various areas that have already seen commendable outcomes, such as education, health, cultural exchange, and growing diplomatic relations. Mulualem also underscored the need to further augment cooperation in boosting people-to-people relations as well as knowledge and skills transfer as the mainstay of cementing the wider Sino-Ethiopian cooperation under the BRI. "In order to make the BRI cooperation even more fruitful, I believe there is a need to work more on the relationship of the Ethiopian and Chinese people. Training and skill transfer are very important to make Ethiopians even more capable to handle and run completed projects. These will make the implementation of BRI projects much more sustainable," he said.
Next time you need your succulent re-potted or have to re-stock your laundry detergent, then consider stopping by Bostons first and only zero waste store that recently returned to the neighborhood where it originated.

After hopping around the Boston area over the past three years, Uvida Shop opened its doors 189 North St. on Feb. 1, thanks to a SPACE Grant from the City of Boston.

This marks a sort of homecoming for the eco-friendly store because it first opened in the North End in December 2020 before relocating to Brookline for the past year and a half.

Uvida Shop adopted the title of Bostons first and only zero-waste store after receiving multiple awards from the city, CEO and Founder Maria Vasco explained to MassLive. After about about two years, Vasco decided to claim the title.

Theres a lot of small businesses, she explained. I was like, maybe someone else is out there and we just dont know about them, but its been a good amount of time to find it out.

Vida translates to life in Spanish, so Vasco named the store Uvida to mean U life to encourage consumers to live a little more eco consciously.

The eco-friendly shop sells non-toxic home essentials made without plastics or wrapped in plastic packaging. All products are made with bamboo, glass, cardboard, or recycled/compostable materials.

Popular products include bamboo toothbrushes, reusable wool dryer balls, reusable shopping bags, and silicone wine glasses. The store also has a station where customers can refill their own containers with hand soap, dish soap, laundry detergent, shampoo and conditioner.

All refills  which are free of parabens, sulfates and dyes  are made from hypoallergenic formulas and good for sensitive skin. The refills are available in unscented and scented options as well.

People are welcome to bring in their own bottles or use the free ones at the store. Vasco added that the Uvidas soap vendor reuses its bottles when shipping products, creating a closed loop system.

On top of this practice being more environmentally friendly, the refill station is more cost-efficient because it eliminates the need for people to buy new bottles of soap and detergent. The products are even more concentrated, so they last longer as well.

It absolutely is a money-saver. Its really a win-win situation, Vasco added. Its just great quality product and its better for [people] and the planet.

The shop will even re-pot peoples plants for those who are nervous about giving their succulent a new home. Uvida also sells kitchen, bathroom and personal care products. With all these offerings, Vasco said the store has something for everyone.

Some people just come for our refills to refill their shampoo, hand soap, dish soap, laundry. And some people just come for the products, Vasco explained. They also love that we have a free gift-wrapping service.

The overall mission of Uvida Shop is to introduce people to more sustainable ways of living. Vasco said this has been challenging given the fact that sustainable living practices are not the most common.

That is one of our biggest battles because this business is very innovative in the sense that its not something that is mainstream, she said. So not only do we have to try to get people to come in and refill, we have to also educate people.

Vasco founded Uvida Shop while majoring in Environmental Studies and Sustainability at UMass Boston.

She learned about zero-waste stores while studying abroad in Spain and visiting California. This combined with her studies inspired Vasco to first open Uvida Shop at 28 Atlantic Ave. in Boston in 2020.

The store stayed there for about three years before moving to 395 Washington St. in Brookline. Vasco said the reason behind the move to Brookline was to test it out. But Vasco ultimately wanted to be in Boston again.

So she decided to move the business back to the North End. As a result, Vasco said customers new and familiar have been excited about Uvidas return to the neighborhood where they first opened.

Its been really great and positive and then for our customers who we have already had and dont live in the North End, theyre just being really positive because theyre like this is more accessible to them, she said.

In honor of Uvidas return, the store will host a grand opening on Saturday, April 27 to coincide with Earth Day. The theme will be Planet vs. Plastics and the event will feature a ribbon-cutting, free food and giveaways.

Customers can visit Uvidas new storefront or go online to browse products and learn more about the zero-waste business and its other events like its seasonal clothing swaps.

People can also follow the Uvida Shop on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X.
More than 20 restaurants in Bostons North End will temporarily close Thursday afternoon in response to the citys outdoor dining ban in 2024.

The owners of 21 North End restaurants will host a neighborhood meeting at St. Josephs Hall on Prince Street from 3-5 p.m. on March 28 to discuss solutions following a recently amended lawsuit against the city. All restaurants named in the lawsuit should participate in the meeting, along with more that are not.

Their restaurants will be closed during the meeting, according to a press release from the North End Restaurant Group. The restaurant owners have invited Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, members of the Boston City Council, Massachusetts State Senate and the North End community.

Protests from the restaurants came after complaints were amended to demand millions in monetary damages from the city for the losses restaurants faced over the past year during the ban on outdoor dining in the Boston neighborhood. The lawsuit was filed last year by 21 owners and the Chamber of Commerce.

We are asking for the right to compete equally, Jorge Mendoza, owner of Vinoteca di Monica, said during a gathering at the Paul Revere Mall on Friday, March 8.

This is a slap on the face to all of us, Mendoza continued. Once again, the North End restaurants are left out in the cold for the outdoor patio season.

Outdoor dining was introduced during COVID and the North End originally participated, with the owners crediting it as their ability to stay afloat when diners otherwise couldnt sit together inside.

After Wu took office in 2022, the city imposed a $7,500 impact fee on North End restaurants, then limited outdoor dining in the neighborhood in 2023.

The lawsuit amendments included a refund of the $7,500 impact fee the North End restaurants had to pay in 2022, compensation for losses of income for outdoor dining bans in 2023 and 2024, and compensation for fees to store the equipment and furniture they had been using for outdoor dining but no longer could.

Were being excluded by an amateur who decided to apply for a job that shes not capable of delivering, Mendoza said of Wu at the March 8 gathering.

The restaurant owners said the city had cited cleanliness in the streets and over-congestion as a potential safety hazard as issues with outdoor dining in the small neighborhood.

But Mendoza said the draw of the neighborhoods Italian culture comes from its authentic ways, and that most people in the area enjoy the things that are privy to their culture, such as people sitting outside to have their coffee. He argued the mayors true agenda is to redistribute wealth.
The Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline celebrated a historic moment this week with the unveiling of its new 14,000 square-foot wing.

The iconic theatre will officially open the wing to the general public on Wednesday, March 27.

The massive wing features new theaters, a bigger lobby, and the first-ever Education and Community Engagement space for classes, private events and more. The space also extends to an outdoor roof deck that has views of Coolidge Corner.

Upon entering the lobby from the Coolidges new entrance across from the Centre Street parking lot, guests are greeted by two new concessions and bars that are combined. This means that guests can order food and drinks in one line. All tickets are also available for purchase indoors with most lines inside as well.

Guests can also sit in one of two new screening rooms, Moviehouse 5 and 6, which hold 145 and 53 seats, respectively. The screening rooms will continue showing 70mm films, for which the Coolidge is known.

People should just be excited to come here and experience the new screening rooms that we have available for them because, I know Im bias, but I think that theyre kind of instantly a couple of the best screening rooms in the Boston area, Mark Anastasio, program director at the Coolidge Corner Theatre, told MassLive on Tuesday.

The new wing, inspired by the Coolidges original Art Deco style, was designed by award-winning architecture firm Howeler + Yoon. The new wing was designed to reflect the theatres original style that has been recognized by moviegoers since 1933.

In a post-pandemic world where we seek to reconnect in person, the renewed Coolidge provides more spaces for meaningful collective experiences, Howeler + Yoon Co-Founder J. Meejin Yoon said in a press release. This expansion opens up opportunities for visitors of all backgrounds to engage in the power of cinema and culture.

A new, 14,000 square-foot wing at Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline will officially open the public on Wednesday, March 27.Handout

The expansion involved roughly 15 years of planning, 10 years of fundraising, and two years of construction, Coolidge Corner Theatre wrote in an Instagram post.

The $14 million project was made possible by donations from more than 1,000 donors, including the Massachusetts Cultural Council that contributed upwards of $1 million to the Coolidge over several years.

I am excited about what this means not only for the residents and the visitors, but also all the businesses that will be touched by this expansion, Michael Bobbitt, executive director of the Massachusetts Cultural Council, said during the theatres ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday. This will also allow Coolidge Corner to have many other partnerships and collaborations with organizations.

Aside from more chances to catch a film, the new wing will help the Coolidge offer new programs such as more first-round screenings, while it continues such pre-existing programs as director spotlights, opera nights and more.

These programs boast community involvement that benefits citizens like Susan Park, who has lived in Brookline for nine years and is a member of the Brookline Asian-American Family Network.

The network is hosting an award ceremony for its What It Means to Be Asian American essay contest at the Coolidge on May 15.

The Coolidge Corner Theatre is a staple in our town, said Park, who is also running for the Brookline Select Board. Were so lucky to have it. My family and I come here all the time and the community does too.

The Coolidges historic marquee and original theaters will stay the same as well. However, The Screening Room is now called Moviehouse 3 and the GoldScreen is now called Moviehouse 4.

The theatre also has a new elevators, restrooms on every flooring including six All-Gender, ADA-compliant restrooms. More information about these changes can be found here.
The Worcester, MA rapper, Joyner Lucas, will be bringing his 2024 tour to his hometown this summer.

The Grammy-nominated rapper will kick off his 24-city Not Now Im Busy headlining tour at the Uptown Theater on May 11 in Minneapolis at the Uptown Theater and will wrap up in his hometown of Worcester, MA at the DCU Center on June 22. Fans can shop for tickets online using reliable third-party ticket vendors such as StubHub and VividSeats.

New customers who purchase tickets through VividSeats can get $20 off a $200+ ticket order by using the promo code MassLive20 at checkout.

The tour will include stops in major cities across the United States, such as Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, and Houston, as well as in Toronto, Canada. Rappers Millyz and Dax will make special appearances on the tour.

The tour coincides with the release of Joyners highly anticipated sophomore studio album, Not Now Im Busy, which was released on March 22.

TOUR TICKETS ON SALE NOW (JOYNER FEST TICKETS AVAILABLE NEXT WEEK) link in bio pic.twitter.com/I7P6MExjeC  Joyner Lucas (@JoynerLucas) March 8, 2024

Here is a look at the full tour schedule with links to purchase tickets:
Fares N. Shaikh-Omar will serve two years of probation after pleading guilty to a single charge of negligent operation of a motor vehicle in Worcester Superior Court on Tuesday in connection with an October 2021 car crash that killed a 35-year-old Worcester woman, a superior court clerk confirmed to MassLive.

Shaikh-Omars guilty plea follows the conviction of Mfouad A. Faris of charges of manslaughter and vehicular homicide by reckless operation earlier this month. The two men were racing on the night of Oct. 10, 2021, on Goldsberry Street in Worcester when Faris lost control of the car he was driving, crashing his Mitsubishi Lancer into the front of a Subaru Forester, police said at the time.

Faris passenger, Jessica Simone, was ejected from the backseat of the car and ultimately died of her injuries. A Worcester native, she was studying to become a radiology technician at Quinsigamond Community College at the time of her death.

Shaikh-Omar also faced charges of manslaughter, motor vehicle homicide by reckless operation, and racing a motor vehicle, but prosecutors ultimately declined to pursue those charges.

Shaikh-Omar testified during Faris trial, telling the jury the two men had agreed to race sometime around 2 a.m. on Oct. 10 after celebrating Simones 35th birthday, the Telegram & Gazette reported.

Simone was the daughter of Kevin Harkins, whose 1994 murder drew widespread attention.

The BMW 335 being driven by Shaikh-Omar was going as fast as 60 mph as the two men raced. He later lowered his speed to let Faris merge back, the paper reported.

After the wreck, which police likened to the sound of a bomb going off, Shaikh-Omar got out of the car to help first responders but left as police waved him away, the Telegram & Gazette reported.

Shaikh-Omar was charged two months later, the outlet reported.

A refugee of Syria, Shaikh-Omar has never before faced a serious criminal charge. He told a judge he worked at a convenience store and helping old people, the Telegram & Gazette reported.
A 4-year-old girl who was fatally struck by a vehicle in Bostons Seaport District was identified on Wednesday as Gracie Gancheva by Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Haydens office.

Gancheva was walking with her family in the area of Congress and Sleeper streets, which is close to the Boston Childrens Museum, around 5 p.m. Sunday when she was struck, according to Boston Police.

Its difficult to adequately express the scope of tragedy in losing someone so young, Hayden said in a statement. My staff and I extend our deepest condolences to Gracie Ganchevas family, friends and loved ones.

Gancheva and her family were from the Denver area, The Boston Globe reported. The girls family, through a Boston Police spokesman, said they did not want to speak to the Globe.

Gancheva was declared dead at a hospital following the crash.

The vehicle involved in the crash remained in the area following the collision, according to Boyle. There were no charges filed and no arrests made immediately after the accident.

MassLive has requested a copy of the Boston Police report regarding the incident.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wus administration had planned safety upgrades to the area where the girl was hit prior to the collision, including new, accessible sidewalks, safer crosswalks, street-light upgrades, and street trees and landscaping, according to the citys website.

We want to build a street that is safe, convenient, comfortable for everyone, while meeting the needs of residents and businesses, the citys website reads.

Boston Childrens Museum President & CEO Carole Charnow said the museum was devastated by this tragedy.

Our hearts go out to the family of the little girl, Charnow said. She did not say if the girl was visiting the museum.

Charnow said the museum is aware of issues with the intersection, particularly related to speed and site lines.

While we know that there are plans in the works to permanently address this issue, we hope that something can be done right away to ensure pedestrian safety, she said.
The City of Boston has agreed to a $4.7 million settlement in a federal civil rights lawsuit over the shooting of a mentally ill Black man by police in 2016, according to Boston-based firm Lawyers for Civil Rights.

Most of that money will go to Hope Coleman, mother of Terrence Coleman, who was shot and killed by a Boston police officer in the foyer of his South End apartment building on Oct. 30, 2016.

The 31-year-old mans mother had called 911 seeking help for her son  who had schizophrenic paranoia. But law enforcement agencies claim he attacked an EMT with a knife, and after a brief tussle with police, an officer shot him.

Despite the Suffolk District Attorneys Offices determination in 2017 that the shooting was justified, Hope Colemans lawsuit alleged many problems with how the City of Boston handles 911 calls involving people with mental illnesses, and sought to hold the city liable for her sons death.

Notably, the settlement doesnt hold the city liable. But it does include $3.4 million for Hope Colemans estate and takes into account her legal dues.

No mother should have to witness her child killed at the hands of police and fight the way that I have had to fight now for so many years to gain accountability, Hope Coleman said in a press release from Lawyers for Civil Rights. Nothing can bring Terrence back, but today, at least some measure of justice has been done.

A Tuesday statement from the city characterized Terrance Colemans death as tragic, and said city officials continue to hold Ms. Coleman and all of Terrences family and loved ones in our hearts.

What is and isnt in the settlement

The settlement does not include an admission by the City of Boston of liability in Terrence Colemans death due to the citys acknowledgement that procedural failures within the litigation process caused the suit to linger in the court system for years and risk a default judgement against the city, a city spokesperson said in the statement.

U.S. District Court Judge Mark Wolf  who oversaw the case  sanctioned the city for its legal conduct many times as the case progressed.

For instance, in a finding last year, he determined that the citys lawyers had failed to turn over evidence regarding first responder agencies use of force and mental health crisis response policies.

It is shameful that the City of Boston fought a grieving mother tooth-and-nail for so long, Sophia Hall, a litigation director at Lawyers for Civil Rights, said in the release. Today, the City has finally stepped up, and this settlement will help bring closure for Ms. Coleman and her family after this years-long legal battle.

In the lawsuit, Hope Coleman disputed law enforcement agencies claims that Terrence Coleman threatened an EMT with a knife, calling police and EMT accounts of the night false and inconsistent.

Hope Coleman is the only first-hand witness to her sons death who is not employed by the City of Boston, the suit argued. And her recollection is that her son was unarmed and a danger to no one throughout the incident.

Notably, Garrett Boyle and Kevin Finn  the police officers involved in the shooting  did not agree to the settlement. But Hope Coleman did agree not to pursue legal action against them in the settlement, according to court records.

The City continues to support the officers, who were called into an incredibly difficult situation, and responded to protect the lives of medical personnel on the scene, the city spokesperson said in the statement.

Attorney Leonard Kesten, who represents the two officers, said Tuesday that their clients did not want to settle the case, The Boston Globe reported.

In fact, they refused to agree not to pursue legal action in regard to the case, and are in the process of looking into such options.

There have been a lot of public statements defaming the officers, so they were not prepared to sign away their rights, Kesten told the Globe. How are they going to get their reputations back?

Does Bostons emergency response system endanger the mentally ill?

Though the lawsuit is now dismissed, Attorney William Fick said in the release that the suit uncovered grave deficiencies in the readiness of Boston Police and EMS to serve persons in mental health crisis.

The suit cited problems in the emergency response the night of Terrance Colemans death, including that the citys dispatch system forced the 911 dispatcher to characterize Coleman as violent and dangerous.

It also criticized a city policy that required police to respond to the incident despite Hope Colemans express request that only an ambulance respond to avoid a police presence potentially agitating her son.

Further, the lawsuit makes the case that the City of Bostons police and EMT trainings provide a poor understanding of mental illness and reinforce the stereotype that mentally ill people are violent and dangerous.

Between the citys flawed emergency response trainings, dispatch system and policies, these problems endanger people with mental illnesses during interactions with first responders, the lawsuit argues.

To bolster this claim, the suit states that, between 2006 and 2018, nearly half of the people killed by police officers in Massachusetts had mental illnesses.

During Mayor Michelle Wus tenure, the City of Boston has invested in alternative response programs for people experiencing mental health episodes, according to the citys statement.

The City, the Boston Police Department, and Boston EMS are committed to providing the best possible care, services, and protection for people and families experiencing mental health crises, the city spokesperson said.

According to Lawyers for Civil Rights, the City of Boston has not followed through on promises to reform its emergency response system and must do more to prevent other mentally ill residents from meeting Terrance Colemans fate.
The 56-year-old former police lieutenant in Winthrop charged with child rape and other related crimes will appear in superior court on Thursday.

James Feeley will be arraigned on March 28, in Suffolk Superior Court, to face charges of aggravated rape and seven counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14, the Suffolk County District Attorneys office said.

The time of Feeleys arraignment was unclear due to a previously scheduled probable cause hearing in East Boston at Boston Municipal Court, the office said.

Feeley had been previously arraigned in December 2023 on charges of child rape and two counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14. He was held on a $200,000 bail.

Assistant District Attorney Benjamin Hui said the assaults happened over the course of 2023. Feeley was placed on leave after he was arrested in December.

His license to work in law enforcement has also been suspended by the states police oversight board, the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission, pending the outcome of his trial.

If hes found guilty, Feeley would be banned from future police work in Massachusetts.

Feeley was promoted from sergeant to lieutenant in 2020 after holding the rank for three years. Before that, Feeley served as Patrolman for six years and Reserve Police Officer for eight years.

According to his LinkedIn, Feeley has been with the department for 22 years. Feeley is due back in court for a probable cause hearing on Jan. 29.

On Friday, Jan. 26, the district attorneys office had announced a 2-year-old child had been found unresponsive at a home in Winthrop and later died.

MassLive confirmed the child was found in Feeleys home.

The initial investigation indicated no signs of foul play or physical trauma, the district attorneys office said at the time.

According to court documents obtained by WCVB-TV in Boston, Feeley had been a foster parent through the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.

The department confirmed to the outlet it was investigating the disturbing allegations against a foster parent, and that there were no foster children currently at the home.

DCF did not confirm to the outlet when or if children had been removed due to the investigation, and cited federal privacy requirements.

The investigation into Feeley is being conducted by State Police detectives assigned to the Suffolk County District Attorneys Office.
After a cargo ship rammed into Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge early Tuesday, causing the span to collapse and the presumed deaths of six people, people may be wondering what to do if their car is submerged in water.

The incident sent multiple vehicles into the river below the bridge, although authorities did not believe anyone was inside. However, news outlets like National Public Radio and the Washington Post have shared articles about the proper protocol one should take if they are trapped in a sinking car.

Dr. Darria Long, who is an emergency room doctor and made multiple television appearances, even posted a video about what to do if your car falls into water before the Baltimore bridge collapse happened.

The video, posted March 13, has garnered roughly 10 million views on TikTok and more than 2 million views on Instagram, as of Wednesday morning. In the video, Long says people have about one minute to get out safely when their vehicle is submerged in water.

When I take care of patients who survived vehicle submersions, it is because they knew what to do and did it immediately before they even had time for panic to set in, Long said in the video. I want you to be able to do the same.

Long said people should memorize the acronym S.W.O.C. that means the following:

Seat belts off  Immediately take your seatbelt, and everyone elses seatbelts, off.

Windows open  Find the window you are going to use to escape and open it. This would most likely be the back row window as it is takes longer to submerge.

Out immediately  Get out of your restraints.

Children first  If there are children in the car, then take the oldest first and grab the youngest on your way out. The reason you should grab the oldest first is because they could help bring the youngest to safety.

Long also dispelled several myths about escaping a sinking car in the videos description like not relying on glass breakers because they take time to find and will not work on many modern cars windows. AAA also has a fact sheet on vehicle escape tools as well as a research report from 2019 explaining this further.

Long also said people should open the window before the water has reached one-third to half of the way up the window level and to not open the car door unless it is a last resort. Some guidance suggests to wait until the car is completely filled with water and then open the door, but Foster and Wallace LLC said to not do this.

When the car starts sinking under the water, the water pressure outside the car will make opening the car door virtually impossible, no matter how strong you are, the law firm wrote on its website. Drivers are sometimes advised to wait until the car fully fills up with water for the pressure on the inside and outside of the car to equalize. The idea here is that when the pressure equalizes, the car door can be opened with ease for escape.

Long also added that you should never get out of the car before your child or children.

If the car suddenly fills with water and youre out of it, youd have a very difficult time getting back to it, Long wrote. But if youre both inside and youre holding the child, you can still swim out.

Once you make it out of the car, it is imperative that you make yourself visible, according to the Washington Post. Andy Blair, director of the National Outdoor Leadership School Teton Valley, told the outlet that people should swim to shore if they can. Otherwise, Blair recommended grabbing something buoyant, climbing onto a larger object or holding up something eye-catching that can attract rescue crews.

For the average person in that situation, their best bet is to find something they can stay afloat with and make themselves as visible as possible, Blair told the news outlet.

More information on how to survive a vehicle submersion can be found here.
With this years tax filing deadline approaching, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reporting continues to show millions fewer refunds this year compared with last year.

Records obtained from the IRS show that this years tax season is on track to have the fewest refunds in at least 15 years.

As of the week ending March 15, the most recent data available, the IRS had issued just over 49 million tax refunds, close to 9% lower than at that point in the tax season last year, when nearly 54 million had been issued.

And last year was already a low point in tax refunds, according to IRS records.

By the end of 2023, there were 105.7 million tax refunds out of a total of about 162 million returns filed, meaning 65.3% of people got money back from the government over the course of the year.

That number fell short of historical averages. From 2009 through 2021, between 70% and 80% of tax filers got refunds.

Because of a vast array of of factors going into the number of returns and refunds that are issued, an IRS spokesman who supplied MassLive with the data declined to speculate on the reasons behind the reduction.

All of our systems are working and the volumes of returns were receiving are on par for what we would expect considering the shortened filing season and the vagaries of the calendar, the spokesperson said.

This years tax filing season started later than last years, but the number of refunds has not kept pace with the number of returns filed. While there have been about 900,000 fewer returns processed by March 15 than a similar date in 2023, there have been nearly 4.8 million fewer tax refunds issued in the same range.

There is still time for the number of tax funds to catch up. The tax deadline is April 15 for most taxpayers, and April 17 for those in Massachusetts and Maine due to the Patriots Day holiday. Additionally, late tax returns are accepted throughout the year.

The gap has closed in the past two weeks of reporting. For the week ending in March 1, there were nearly 6 million fewer refunds issued compared with about 4.8 million fewer reported by the week ending March 15.
A Brockton man pleaded not guilty to charges accusing him of driving while drunk in a crash that killed a woman and seriously injured another woman, Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruzs office said.

Jose Lopes, 40 pleaded not guilty to one count each of second-degree murder, manslaughter by motor vehicle, motor vehicle homicide, operating under the influence of intoxicating liquor resulting in bodily injury, operating under the influence of intoxicating liquor and reckless operation of a motor vehicle, Cruzs office said in a statement.

Lopes turned himself in on Wednesday after a Plymouth County grand jury indicted him on the charges and a warrant for his arrest was issued, Cruzs office said.

Appearing before Judge Daniel OShea in Brockton Superior Court, Lopes was ordered to be held on $5,000 bail with the condition that he wear a GPS-monitoring device, take part in alcohol screenings, surrender his passport, stay in Massachusetts and have no contact with the victims, their families and witnesses.

At around midnight on May 28, 2023, two cars crashed on Pleasant Street in Brockton, Cruzs office said. Brockton police arrived to find two women in a Nissan while Lopes was inside a Honda. All three were taken to the hospital and all were found to have serious injuries.

One of the two women, Ashley Cardoso, 24, the passenger of the Nissan, died at the hospital from her injuries, Cruzs office said.

Working with Massachusetts State Police, Brockton police commenced their investigation into the crash. Investigators relied on witness testimony and video surveillance of the crash itself. Lopes was driving 50 mph in a densely populated area before he lost control, hit the curb and struck the Nissan head-on, Cruzs office said. Lopes Blood Alcohol Content was at 0.2.

Lopes will appear in court again on May 22.
In a special meeting with leaders of Worcesters Black community on Tuesday, U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y. and U.S Rep. Jim McGovern D-2nd District were given a clear message  the House of Representatives needs to address hunger, social justice and inequality found everywhere.

The two Democrats held a roundtable discussion at The Village, an Afrocentric cultural and learning center in Worcester, as part of a trip to Massachusetts scheduled by Jeffries, a spokesman for McGovern told MassLive.

Media was not allowed to sit in on the meeting but McGovern told MassLive after that the hour-long talk focused on longstanding issues Black residents face in Worcester and throughout the country  namely social inequality, economic disparity and food insecurity.

McGovern said meeting with constituents is personal for him and Jeffries as it provides direct feedback on what issues should be prioritized in Congress.

You know, we dont know everything, McGovern said at a press conference following the meeting. Coming here and listening to these community leaders informs us and hopefully, we will be better representatives as a result.

Jeffries said there must be more coordination between community organizations and Congress to understand what issues require immediate attention rather than focusing on projects that are personal only to a member of Congress.

We are here to listen, we are here to learn and we are here to lift up these communities, Jeffries said. So we can take those lessons back to Washington D.C. and translate them into public policy that makes a difference in the lives of the people in this congressional district.

Members of The Village told MassLive they appreciated how McGovern and Jeffries listened to their concerns, such as how the cost of living is disproportionally different for people of color in Worcester.

Parlee Jones, the director of the black history learning institute, OurStory Edutainment, said she trusted McGovern and praised his efforts to expand programs such as SNAP, which helps those struggling to find and buy nutrient-rich food because of high prices.

He looks out for people, Jones said. It shouldnt be a color thing, but it is. Thats why we have to push back, but he looks out for everybody.

Worcester NAACP President Fred Taylor also praised Jeffries for attending the meeting and that he hoped the New York congressman would become Speaker.

As a Worcester resident, its really an honor for me to be here and sit with, hopefully, the next speaker of the house, Jones said. Were up for the task.

Following the meeting, McGovern and Jeffries were given a tour of El Buen Samaritano Food Program Inc., a food relief program on 39 Piedmont St. that has been operating since 1991. The programs executive director, Mari Gonzalez, greeted the two and showed them the food, books and clothing donated to El Buen Samaritano and explained how they are distributed to families throughout the city and Worcester County.

McGovern, a longtime advocate for ending world hunger, said Gonzalezs and the Food Programs work represented what it means to fight food inequality in Worcester. According to the latest study conducted by the Federal Reserve Economic Data, 121,186 residents in Worcester County were on SNAP as of 2021.

McGovern said the number will continue to increase unless Congress takes action. He also said he would oppose any legislation that would cut funding for the program.

Hunger is a political condition, McGovern said. We have the money, we have the food, we know what to do but we have lacked the political will to actually solve the problem.

Jeffries agreed with McGovern and said Democrats in Congress should focus on the issue of food insecurity with the same seriousness as gun violence.

We have got to deal with gun violence all across America but understand, more people die from drive-throughs than drive-bys because of the lack of healthy food which then results in disproportionately high results of diabetes and high blood pressure, Jeffries said. Lack of healthy food is an epidemic that we have to confront.

While efforts in Congress to pass bills to expand programs such as SNAP have stalled Mari Gonzalez told MassLive she and her colleagues at El Buen Samaritano Food Program Inc. have been actively donating food throughout the community.

According to Gonzalez, the Food Program delivered food, clothing and books to 11,000 households and more than 25,000 people in Worcester last year.

Gonzalez thanked McGovern and Jeffries for visiting and said their commitment to helping end food insecurity could inspire others to learn more about her organization.

Its a really humbling experience, she said. Im just so thankful.
A cargo ship rammed into Baltimores Francis Scott Bridge early Tuesday, causing the span to collapse and the presumed deaths of six people.

Heres what we know so far about the collapse:

WHAT EXACTLY HAPPENED?

The operators of the Dali cargo ship issued a mayday call that the vessel had lost power moments before the crash, but the ship still headed toward the span at a very, very rapid speed, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said.

The 985-foot-long (300-meter-long) vessel struck one of the 1.6-mile (2.6-kilometer) bridges supports, causing the span to break and fall into the water within seconds.

Six construction workers who were filling potholes on the bridge are presumed dead. Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, said they were working in the middle of the span when it came apart.

An inspection of the Dali last June at a port in Chile identified a problem with the ships propulsion and auxiliary machinery, according to Equasis, a shipping information system. The deficiency involved gauges and thermometers, but the websites online records didnt elaborate.

The most recent inspection listed for the Dali was conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard in New York in September. The standard examination didnt identify any deficiencies, according to the Equasis data.

The ship was moving at 8 knots, which is roughly 9 mph (15 kph).

Given the vessels massive weight, it struck the bridge support with significant force, said Roberto Leon, a Virginia Tech engineering professor.

The only way the post can resist it is by bending, Leon said. But it cannot absorb anywhere near the energy that this humongous ship is bringing. So its going to break.

Last June, federal inspectors rated the 47-year-old bridge in fair condition. But the structure did not appear to have pier protection to withstand the crash, experts said.

If a bridge pier without adequate protection is hit by a ship of this size, there is very little that the bridge could do, Leon said.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE MISSING?

Two people were rescued, and six others are missing and presumed dead. They all were part of a construction crew that was repairing potholes on the bridge.

Some vehicles on the span seemed to escape with seconds to spare, and police believe the construction workers are the only people who went into the water.

The ship is owned by Singapore-based Grace Ocean Private Ltd., which said all crew members, including the two pilots, were accounted for and there were no reports of injuries.

The ships warning enabled authorities to limit vehicle traffic on the span. Plus, the accident occurred at 1:30 a.m., long before the busy morning rush. The bridge carried an estimated 30,800 vehicles a day on average in 2019.

WHAT IMPACT COULD THIS HAVE?

The collapse will almost surely create a logistical nightmare for months, if not years, in the region, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major shipping hub. The accident will also snarl cargo and commuter traffic.

The port is a major East Coast hub for shipping. The bridge spans the Patapsco River, which massive cargo ships use to reach the Chesapeake Bay and then the Atlantic Ocean.

The Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic.

President Joe Biden said he plans to travel to Baltimore as quickly as I can and that he expects the federal government to pick up the entire cost of rebuilding the bridge.

The collapse, however, is not likely to have a big effect on worldwide trade because Baltimore is not a major port for container vessels, but the ports facilities are more important when it comes to goods such as farm equipment and autos, said Judah Levine, head of research for global freight booking platform Freightos.

Leon, the Virginia Tech professor, said lessons can be learned and improvements can be made following this disaster. For example, bridge cameras and sensors can be used to track when a cargo ship heads off course and communicate with traffic lights and gates at bridge entrances.

I think that our mission now is to learn from this failure and learn at all levels, Leon said.

HOW OFTEN DOES THIS HAPPEN?

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, with a total of 342 people killed, according to a 2018 report from the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Eighteen of those collapses happened in the United States.

Among them were a 2002 incident in which a barge struck the Interstate 40 bridge over the Arkansas River at Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, sending vehicles plunging into the water. Fourteen people died and 11 were injured.

And in 2001, a tugboat and barge struck the Queen Isabella Causeway in Port Isabel, Texas, causing a section of the bridge to tumble 80 feet (24 meters) into the bay below. Eight people were killed.
This story has been updated to include comments from Salem Police Chief Lucas Miller.

Residents of a homeless encampment in downtown Salem are facing removal Wednesday at the same time that the city is considering banning camping entirely.
One of two robot dogs assigned to the State Police Bomb Squad was shot three times during a standoff with an armed suspect on Cape Cod earlier this month, an incident that State Police say highlights the importance of the use of advanced technology to resolve hostile situations.

The four-legged Boston Dynamics SPOT robot had been nicknamed Roscoe and was being operated by Bomb Squad Trooper John Ragosa on the afternoon of March 6. State Police went to a residence on St. Francis Circle in Barnstable on that date to assist a SWAT team made up of local police on Cape Cod with a situation involving an armed barricaded suspect. When State Police got to the residence, they learned the barricaded suspect had shot at officers with a rifle.

Troopers sent in two PacBot 510 tracked robots and Roscoe, the SPOT robot, to help locate the suspect inside the home.

Doing so allowed the team to safely gather crucial intelligence and provide situational awareness of the suspect and the homes interior, State Police spokesman David Procopio said in a statement Wednesday.

Roscoe was first sent through the top two floors of the residence, clearing both. The robot was then sent into the homes basement.

Ragosa, controlling the robot remotely, first cleared a closet in the basement, and was about to open another door, when the suspect suddenly appeared armed with a gun, the statement said.

The suspect knocked the robot over and began walking up the stairs, still carrying the rifle.

But, Roscoes self-righting function allowed it to get upright again and Ragosa led the robot up the stairs behind the armed man.

When the suspect noticed the robot, he again knocked it over and then raised his rifle in its direction. Ragosa then lost communication with Roscoe, the statement said.

Troopers would later discover the robot had been shot three times and rendered inoperable.

After shooting the robot dog, the man fired at one of the other robots, which was outside a sliding door. That is when SWAT operators set off tear gas inside the home, and the man later surrendered to police.

The incident provided a stark example of the benefits of mobile platforms capable of opening doors and ascending stairs in tactical missions involving armed suspects, Procopio said in the statement. In addition to providing critically important room clearance and situational awareness capabilities, the insertion of Roscoe into the suspect residence prevented the need, at that stage of response, from inserting human operators, and may have prevented a police officer from being involved in an exchange of gunfire.

The day after the incident, Ragosa brought Roscoe to Boston Dynamics so the company could remove the bullets from the robot and conduct a damage assessment. The company intends to keep the fallen robot dog for research and will provide a new robot to State Police.
One of the states that will get a full view of the total solar eclipse on April 8 has called in help as an influx of visitors is expected to congregate and look up.

The Oklahoma National Guard will have members of the 63rd Civil Support Team, or CST, available to help local governments and first responders during the eclipse, with additional HAZMAT responses if needed, according to a statement. This was at the request of McCurtain County Emergency Management.

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will be visible from North America as it makes its path from Texas all the way northeast to Maine. This path of totality indicates when and where the 31.6 million people living along that path are expected to see the eclipse happening, weather pending, according to NBC News.

NASA released a map detailing the trajectory of the 2024 total solar eclipse, with a clear view of the eclipse along the path starting in Mexico and moving across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine before exiting over the North Atlantic.

McCurtain County Emergency Management requested our support because they expect up to 100,000 additional people visiting their communities to watch the eclipse, Lt. Col. Jabonn Flurry, 63rd CST commander, said in the statement. This influx of visitors has the potential to overtax local resources and thanks to the training and experience our Guardsmen have working alongside local agencies all across Oklahoma, the CST is uniquely qualified to support our fellow Oklahomans.

In case theres an emergency that requires a HAZMAT team, the 63rd CSTs resources will respond, allowing local emergency responders to continue their assistance to citizens and the expected increase of visitors, the Oklahoma National Guard said.

States along the path of totality are expected to see major crowds and large numbers of tourists trying to catch a 3- to 4-minute glimpse of the moon blotting out the sun. New Hampshire officials expect around 50,000 people to gather around Coos County, which lands completely along the path of totality, according to Seacoastonline.

The Federal Aviation Administration expects to see above-average traffic volume at airports located along the path of the eclipse, and New York State Police warned that there could be strains on local infrastructure as a result of the massive crowds that could gather to look up at the celestial event.

In Texas, the Hays County Office of Emergency Services warned people to stock up on food and gas, with the offices director Mike Jones telling KXAN in Austin for people outside during the day of the eclipse to pack your patience.
Reading police charged a driver Tuesday afternoon after he got into a crash with a 15-year-old pedestrian while driving with his license suspended, according to police.

Woburn resident Liam Robinson, 25, is facing a charge of driving after a license suspension for operating under the influence in connection with the crash, Reading police said in a press release.

Officers responded to the crash on Lowell Street around 3:30 p.m. after receiving a report that a pedestrian had been hit, police said. There, they found a 15-year-old suffering from serious but not life-threatening injuries.

The teen was brought to Massachusetts General Hospital in an ambulance, police said. Robinson stayed at the scene and cooperated with police, but they discovered his license suspension.

Police are still investigating the crash, but no further charges were filed as of Tuesday evening.
The name of the woman killed inside a bodywork spa in Worcester on Thanksgiving in 2023 was released by Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early Jr.s office on Wednesday.

Yueping Zhang, 34, was shot in the head on Nov. 23, 2023, inside Angies Bodywork Spa on 383 Pleasant St. in Worcester. Assistant District Attorney Terry McLaughlin said in Worcester District Court on Dec. 13 that she and Marcel Santos-Padgett went inside the business at around 2 a.m.

About 30 minutes later, there was gunfire and Santos-Padgett fled, prosecutors said. It was not until about 11:40 a.m. that police arrived and found the woman dead. The next day, police arrested Santos-Padgett in Haverhill. In a follow-up court appearance on Dec. 13, his charges were upgraded to murder.

In the weeks after her death, Worcester police told MassLive that Zhangs family was from China.

Zhangs name appeared in a statement about Santos-Padgett being indicted by a Worcester County grand jury. They handed up indictments against him on three counts including murder, possession of a loaded firearm not at home or work and possession of a firearm not at home or work.

Santos-Padgetts additional charges stem from a shooting at around 2:40 a.m. on Illinois Street on Aug. 20, 2023, where a woman was shot at but was not injured, Earlys office continued.

Evidence compiled by Worcester police during the Pleasant Street investigation about the earlier shooting resulted in additional charges. Santos-Padgett was indicted on additional charges of armed assault with intent to murder, possession of a loaded firearm not at home or work and possession of a firearm not at home or work, Earlys office said.

Santos-Padgetts next hearing was scheduled for Thursday, March 28. He will now be arraigned in Worcester Superior Court that day.
The New Hampshire man accused of killing a Waltham police officer and a National Grid utility worker in a December 2023 worksite crash has been indicted on murder charges by the Middlesex County grand jury.

Peter Simon, 54, of Woodsville, N.H. faces two counts of second degree murder and other charges in connection with the deaths of Waltham Police Officer Paul Tracey, 58 and National Grid employee Roderick Jackson, 36, of Cambridge.

Simons charges were upgraded from two counts of manslaughter amongst other charges.

Hed been arraigned in Waltham District Court on Dec. 7, 2023, and was held without bail after pleading not guilty. He is also accused of pulling a knife on another Waltham officer and stealing his cruiser during the incident.

Simon also previously pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to a charge of reckless conduct in connection with a 2009 incident, where he crashed head-on with a bus, according to court documents obtained by MassLive.

The incident that killed Tracey and Jackson happened at 4 p.m. on Dec. 6, 2023, when Simon was driving a pickup truck on the eastbound side of Totten Pond Road.

Simon had been driving between 62-63 mph at the time of the crash and was accelerating at full throttle when he hit the worksite, the state police investigation revealed.

The officer and power company employee were working at a site along the road when Simon pulled over, made a U-turn and hit another car, then kept driving, the office said.

Simon smashed into the worksite Tracey and Jackson were working at, killing both men, the office said. He hit several other vehicles before abandoning his truck, the office said.

The New Hampshire man then came across an officer responding to the scene, pulled a knife on him and stole his cruiser, the office said. Simon crashed the police car on Winter Street, and was finally arrested by a Waltham officer.

Simons full list of charges includes two counts of second degree murder, two counts of motor vehicle homicide, armed robbery, armed carjacking, three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, larceny of a motor vehicle, four counts of operating to endanger, three counts of leaving the scene causing property damage, leaving the scene causing death, failure to stop for police, two counts of wanton destruction of property and resisting arrest.

He will be arraigned in Middlesex Superior Court at a later date, the office said.
A cadre of the Bay States Capitol Hill lawmakers are calling on the Biden administration to speed up visa applications for Haitian nationals fleeing the violence-riven Caribbean island nation.

The situation in Haiti demands urgent, creative solutions to ensure that, at a minimum, relatives of U.S. persons can be quickly processed and reunited with their families in the United States, the lawmakers, led by U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-7th District, and Democratic U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, wrote in a Tuesday letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and senior State Department official Rena Bitter.

Joining Pressley, Warren, and Markey on the letter were Massachusetts Democratic U.S. Reps. James P. McGovern, Lori Trahan, Jake Auchincloss, Katherine M. Clark, Seth Moulton, and William R. Keating.

The call comes as Massachusetts emergency shelters and overflow sites fill with new arrivals, many of them Haitians, who have bedded down at Boston Logan International Airport while they wait for more permanent space.

As of Wednesday, 7,536 families  36 more than the Healey administrations self-imposed cap of 7,500 families, were enrolled in the states emergency shelter system. Fourteen families had enrolled in the system within the last 24 hours, state data showed.

The humanitarian crisis already gripping Haiti has worsened in recent days as gangs intensified their rampage in the downtown area of Haitis capital, setting fire to a school and looting pharmacies across the road from the countrys largest public hospital, the Associated Press reported.

The attacks that began Monday and continued into early Tuesday mark nearly a month since gunmen began targeting key infrastructure across Port-au-Prince including police stations, the main international airport that remains closed and Haitis two biggest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

The violence and instability in Haiti have consequences far beyond the risk of the violence itself, Catherine Russell, UNICEFs executive director, said in a statement Tuesday, according to the Associated Press. The situation is creating a child health and nutrition crisis that could cost the lives of countless of children.

The number of children in Haiti estimated to suffer from severe acute malnutrition has increased by 19% this year, according to UNICEF. In addition, some 1.64 million people are on the precipice of famine. This malnutrition crisis is entirely human made, Russell said.

Read More: How migrants sleeping at Logan Airport spend their days and nights

In their letter to Blinken and Bitter, Pressley and her Capitol Hill colleagues specifically noted the violence that has rocked Haiti since the 2021 assassination of former Haitian President Jovenel Moise.

As you [Blinken] recently highlighted, Haiti presents one of the most urgent challenges we face as an international community. the lawmakers wrote.

Massachusetts has one of the largest Haitian diaspora communities in the nation. And residents here, along with thousands of others across the country, are waiting as their family members have their applications for family-based immigrant visas processed, the lawmakers noted.

But with the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince operating on an emergency basis, that process has been dramatically slowed, Pressley and her colleagues said.

The State Department must implement stop-gap solutions to more quickly process visas for Haitians in need of urgent protection, even as the U.S. Embassy maintains minimal operations in Haiti, the lawmakers wrote to Blinken and Bitter.

To speed things up, the lawmakers recommended several fixes. They include:

Waiving the personal, in-person appearance requirement, at least for Haitian immediate relatives of U.S. persons;

Ramping up capacity for processing Haitian immigrant visas at a third-country post, and

Establishing a new location for in-person requirements besides the U.S. embassy, given the particularly high level of unrest in the neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince and the threat posed to those who leave their homes, they said.

We appreciate the scale and complexity of this issue and applaud the work the State Department has already done to explore creative solutions to address the backlog, the lawmakers wrote. Still, we urge the State Department to ensure that solutions are implemented with the urgency that this issue demands.
(*This story was updated at 10:43 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 to update the signatories to the letter to the Biden administration.)

Arguing that the need for aid is imperative, a half-dozen members of Massachusetts Capitol Hill delegation have joined Gov. Maura Healeys effort to get the Biden administration to reconsider its denial of her request for a major disaster declaration for three Bay State counties hit by heavy rains and flooding last fall.

As climate change continues to bring unprecedented weather changes, we believe it is imperative that communities see strong partnership among federal, state, and local governments to deliver when residents need it most, the lawmakers, led by U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., wrote in a Tuesday letter to President Joe Biden and Federal Emergency Management Agency Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich.

*Joining Warren on the letter, obtained exclusively by MassLive, were U.S. Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Bay State Democratic U.S. Reps. Richard E. Neal, James P. McGovern, Lori Trahan, and Jake Auchincloss, whose districts all took a hit from the severe weather.

The original request by Healeys office request covered Bristol, Hampden, and Worcester counties, which all were hit by a round of severe storms and flooding last September.

Torrential rains in Leominster, in Worcester County, turned residents lives upside down after rain and flood waters destroyed basements, driveways, yards, and roads on the night of Sept. 11, MassLive previously reported.

In Hampden County, severe thunderstorms left streets underwater, stranding motorists and closing roads, particularly in Springfield and Chicopee, The Republican reported at the time.

And in North Attleborough, in Bristol County, 200 homes were flooded or damaged during the Sept. 11 storm, WCVB-TV reported.

Despite that widespread damage, FEMA officials turned down the states request last month, ruling that it was not of such severity and magnitude as to be beyond the capabilities of the state, affected local governments and voluntary agencies, WCVB-TV reported.

In a March 11 letter to Biden and Ehrlich asking for that reconsideration, Healey argued that our communities must know that both their state and federal governments understand the severe challenges and stress they are facing, and that we are here to help.

Their recovery is particularly daunting given the knowledge that the next severe storm could be around the corner, as we continue to see the escalating impacts of climate change, Healey wrote.

Tuesdays letter from the federal lawmakers echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that the flooding has strained finances, time, and resources for some of our most vulnerable communities.

Warren, Markey and their Capitol Hill colleagues also ran down some of the specific damage inflicted by the storm, including a disastrous water main break in Springfield, and 56 damaged sites catalogued by officials in Leominster.

As a result, we hope that these expenses, in addition to the other costs and considerations raised by the [g]overnor, will have the chance for further review as part of FEMAs evaluation of Massachusetts major disaster request appeal, they wrote.

Healeys $58 billion budget proposal for the new fiscal year that starts July 1 would authorize the creation of a new Disaster Relief and Resiliency Fund that would better prepare the state to respond to such incidents in the future.

The proposal, which would be funded out of capital gains tax revenue, is based on legislation sponsored by state Sen. Joanne Comerford, D-Hampshire/Franklin/Worcester and state Rep. Natalie Blais, D-1st Franklin, MassLive reported last November.

Right now, Massachusetts is one of only two states that doesnt have a permanent disaster relief fund, the two lawmakers said during a news conference last fall.

That means state officials only can provide assistance when the Legislature and governor pass a supplemental appropriation that addresses a communitys specific need.

And that can result in months of delay when the need for funding is an urgent one, they said.
Rain should be coming back to parts of Massachusetts on Thursday, and the potential for some flooding along with it.

Thursday rain should start the night before and spread out between 10 p.m. and 2 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. Overnight rain should be on the lighter side at around one-half inch or less, forecasters said.

Going into Thursday, forecasters anticipate rainfall totaling 2 inches across most of eastern Massachusetts, except for possible totals of 3 inches around the Cape and Islands, the weather service posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

A prolonged period of light to moderate rainfall across southern New England. Rain begin late this afternoon/evening & continue through Thu before ending late Fri. This could lead to renewed river/small stream flooding. #mawx #ctwx #riwx pic.twitter.com/yzc2aDogmV  NWS Boston (@NWSBoston) March 27, 2024

Should that amount of rainfall occur, it is possible that more significant river flooding would result, forecasters said. Will need to closely monitor this potential over the next 24 to 36 hours.

The weather service issued a flood watch across all of eastern and central Massachusetts to go into effect at 2 p.m. This could lead to excessive runoff that could flood rivers, creeks, streams and other areas at risk of flooding, including areas with poor drainage and urban areas.

Forecasters also issued a flood warning for the Taunton River near Bridgewater, with concern over minor flooding affecting the area.

At 9 feet, backwater flooding from the Taunton River will cause flooding of lower Purchade Brook in Middleboro, forecasters said. This will cause Woloski Park to become impassable by most vehicles for an extended period of time. Beware of the dangers of crossing flooded roadways. The water may be deeper than you think. Floodwaters have the ability to damage roadways. Heed the advice of local officials, and evacuate if asked to do so.

Motorists are encouraged to steer clear of barricades and not drive through flooded roads, the warning said.

Humidity should also bring a bump in temperatures across parts of the state, with highs in the low 50s, forecasters said.

Rain should continue through Thursday until midday Friday, forecasters continued. Blustery conditions should then follow as the rain makes its exit, with winds reaching between 35 and 40 mph and gusts possibly peaking at 46 mph around the Berkshires.

Winds should then mellow out going into Saturday before yielding sunny skies and high temperatures, forecasters said. Between the two, expect the higher temperatures in the 50s to stay while cloud cover ebbs and flows going into Sunday and next week.
SPRINGFIELD  Police arrested a Springfield man after seizing what they described as illicit drugs and cash from a home on East Hooker Street Wednesday.

During the bust, officers found 4.5 kilograms of cocaine, 93 bags of heroin, and approximately $4,750 in U.S. currency suspected of being the proceeds of drug trafficking, a state police press release said.

The cocaine is the equivalent of 9.9 pounds of the substance.
SPRINGFIELD  A Hampden Superior Court jury found a Westfield man guilty of first-degree murder in the stabbing of the mother of their infant child in 2019.

The panel delivered its unanimous verdict after four hours of deliberations and two days of testimony, convicting Blake Scanlon, 27, for killing Alexis Avery with 28 blows with a kitchen knife. A first-degree murder conviction comes with a mandatory sentence of life in prison.
A Westport councillor has claimed that courtesy crossings in the west Mayo town are not working, saying it is time to install proper pedestrian crossings.

A number of courtesy crossings have been located around Westport for a number of years but their value has been questioned by some councillors, who say they are confusing to pedestrians and motorists and they are in constant need of repair.

Fine Gael councillor Peter Flynn raised the issue of courtesy crossings at the monthly meeting of the Westport/Belmullet Municipal District where he described them as a disaster.

They are just not working, and it is time we dealt with them once and for all and bring in some proper crossings like other towns in Ireland and around the world. They are not working. All they are doing is damaging peoples cars.

It is time we address the elephant in the room regarding these crossings and come up with a permanent solution that would give us something which will work for pedestrians and motorists going forward, he said.

The courtesy crossings are not governed by the same rules as zebra crossings or other pedestrian crossings, where pedestrians have right of way when they step onto the road. This has led to confusion between some motorists and pedestrians.

Westport-based councillor Brendan Mulroy, who previously called for them to be removed, stated that maybe its time to take these crossings out completely.

Either make them all pedestrian crossings and have lights on them or dont have them there at all. It is only a matter of time before someone gets killed, he said.

Heritage status

Padraig Walsh, Head of the Municipal District told the meeting that each pedestrian crossing can cost up to 40,000 to install. He acknowledged that they do not have a long lifespan because the paving does not get enough time to settle.

He explained that the courtesy crossings were installed in Westport because of the towns heritage status, and that the appearance of any replacement crossing has to be taken into consideration if they choose to replace them.

We could totally replace the paving with coloured macadam and your problem would nearly be gone in terms of ongoing maintenance. It wouldnt look as good but its an option. You could make them into full pedestrian crossings but you would have a plethora of flashing amber lights, and it would not look that well in Westport.

We dont have the money to do a complete paved replacement because it is of the order of 40,000 per site. We have looked at a more serviceable solution but there might be people who think it will downgrade the appearance, he added.

Cllr Flynn said it might be time to replace a courtesy crossing with a pedestrian crossing on a trial period, but he was informed the council does not have the money to replace them.

When asked by Cllr Mulroy whether the council is so skint that it can not take out a crossing, Mr Walsh replied that the funding had not been included in the years budget.
MAYO County Council has lent full support to the Irish Farmers Association as it prepares to mount a campaign, Enough is Enough against what was described as out of control regulation.

Councillors spoke for over an hour after the IFA accused the EU, the Irish Government and local Government are devising policies far from the farm gate with little or no consideration of the direct impact on farmers.

In an address to the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council, Mayo IFA Chairman John Lynskey outlined 20 different concerns relating to farming.

Taking aim at EU policy, Mr Lynksey said farmers were not being properly compensated under the Common Agricultural Policy, which he said was reducing farm output while funding was being redirected to environmental schemes.

Mr Lynskey also raised concerns over the nitrates derogation - which he said the European Commission was threatening to remove by 2026 - as well as the EUs controversial proposed Nature Restoration Law and Mercosur trade deal.

Mr Lynksey told councillors there had been a complete systems failure in the payment of farm investment grant aid (TAMS) scheme. He also said farmers were experiencing delays in grant payments and claimed many farm schemes were so complicated that agricultural consultants are threatening strike action.

In his address, he also bemoaned the shambolic management of Irish forestry, the prevalence of ash dieback, a lack of dog wardens in Mayo, the Residential Zoned Land Tax and delays in the planning system.

He concluded by asking the council to support a motion acknowledging the costs faced by farmers and their contribution to the economy of rural Ireland.

Councillors were also asked to demand that the government introduce no further regulations on farmers or any measures that may increase costs on farms without full negotiation and agreement with the Irish Farmers Association (IFA).

The motion was supported across the council chamber, with Fianna Fails Damien Ryan and Al McDonnell formally proposing and seconding it.

Cllr Ryan supported the points raised by Mr Lynksey and called for a mass mobilisation of the IFA against out of control regulation.

The council later passed a motion, proposed by Cllr Jarlath Munnelly (Fine Gael), that the council write to Minister for Local Government, Darragh OBrien, calling for a single customer water charge for farmers.

Uisce Eireann, formerly known as Irish Water, came in for criticism from elected members, with Cllr Ryan describing them as the most dysfunctional public utility ever created.

Independent councillor Patsy OBrien said that he knew farmers that were being charged for up to eleven water metres.

Cllr OBrien said farmers were being let down by government at national and European level and claimed the Government were bowing to the officials in Europe over agricultural policy.

He also branded as deplorable and disgraceful the use of CPOs to acquire land for greenways.

Sinn Fein representative Gerry Murray called on farmers not to cooperate with CPOs used to deliver greenways or substandard roads.

Forty-four farmers have opposed a preferred route for the extension of the Great Western Greenway from Westport to Murrisk, which may involve the CPO of farmland.

Local councillor Brendan Mulroy called on farmers to become militant and said that the CPO of land for the Westport to Murrisk greenway would be repeated elsewhere.

If they get their own way on this, as previous councillors said, there will not be a farmer left in this country in 20 years time, he said.

In a ten-minute-long contribution, Cllr John OMalley pledged to take this fight all the way to the end with farmers.

Cllr OMalley, who is a farmer based in West Mayo, launched an attack on Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan.

The Independent councillor called on the government to get rid of Minister Ryan before criticising his recent visit to Brazil for St Patricks Day.

Do you think hes going to tell them to stop cutting down trees? Theyd cut the bloody head of him, he said.

He stopped Bord na Mona from producing peat briquettes and were importing them by the boatload from Germany and Poland and were distributing them around the country, and from Brazil are coming boatloads of wood chips from those trees that they are cutting down so the farmers can have more cattle. They are bringing them into Cork by the boatload and they are trucking them up to the ESB plant to power the ESB plant.

Cllr OMalley said that Michael Davitt would turn in his grave over land being sold by Coillte to develop forestry.

He claimed that an increase of forestry was leading to an increase in the deer population, which he claimed were spreading tuberculosis to farm animals.

Fine Gael councillors all spoke in favour of the farmers, with Cllrs Tom Connolly and John Cribbin describing farming as the backbone of rural Ireland.

Independent county councillor Christy Hyland received a round of applause from the IFA members in the public gallery after he said it was sad that farmers had to air their concerns in such a manner.

Mr Lynskey thanked the councillors for their show of support following their remarks.
The N17 near Claremorris has reopened this afternoon as Gardai have completed their initial forensic investigation into the cause of a horrific road crash that claimed the lives of a woman and two young girls.

The collision took place at 2pm yesterday afternoon when a car driven by the woman was involved in a crash with a fuel articulated lorry on the main Galway to Sligo N17 road at Castlegar in Claremorris. A driver of another van had to take evasive action to avoid the collision. The drivers of both the truck and the van were treated for shock at the scene but avoided serious injury.

The identity of the woman and the two girls has yet to be revealed as Gardai attempt to contact extended family of the deceased. They are believed to be from the west Galway area.

The three deaths came just hours after another tragedy just 15 miles away in Swinford where a well-known couple lost their lives in a house fire. Tom and Eileen Mahon, who ran a furniture and flooring business in the town, died in the house fire at their home in the Deerpark area of Swinford. Their funeral arrangements are expected to be announced later today.

New Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach in-waiting Simon Harris said on social media that March 26 will be remembered as a ' devastating day for the people of Mayo'.

He added: Thinking of the families and friends of the woman and two girls who have lost their lives in Castlegar and of Tom and Eileen Mahon, who died in a fire in Swinford. A dark day. I know the community will rally to support all those grieving.

Mayo TD Alan Dillon said both tragedies in the county had sent shockwaves throughout their respective communities.

He added: "The loss of lives in such sudden circumstances is a stark reminder of how fragile life can be. Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by these devastating accidents. This is a heartbreaking loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."

Speaking on Morning Ireland this morning, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Cllr Michael Loftus also spoke of the shock in the community.

It's a massive shock to us to hear of such an accident. When someone loses their life in a road accident so sad, but when you hear three lives lost this way, so suddenly, you know it creates great sadness in our county and in our country.

Cllr Loftus also expressed his disappointment that some members of the public were posting photographs of the crash site on social media on Tuesday night.

It's so disappointing to hear something like that is going on. What's wrong with these people going on social media doing this? I think it's a disgrace. And you have to respect the families at this time.

The three deaths on Tuesday mean that seven deaths have already occurred on Mayo roads this year, in comparison to 12 in the whole of 2023. Five of the deaths so far this year have been in the wider Claremorris area.

Terence Killeen (38) lost his life in a road accident on January 5 on the R331 at Belladaff near Claremorris, while Longford native Jimmy Rowe died in another accident on the N17 near Claremorris during Storm Isha on January 21.

Gardai have appealed for any witnesses to yesterday's collision to come forward.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make this footage available to Gardai.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Claremorris Garda Station on 094 9372080, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
A MAN who was detected driving with cocaine in his system was disqualified from driving for one year and fined 1,000.

Lee Bewick (44) of 3 Inchaquinn House, Main Street, Headford, Co Galway appeared before Castlebar District Court charged with drug driving on June 11, 2023.

Garda Vincent O'Boyle told the court he was conducting a checkpoint at Glencorrib at 2.25pm when he stopped a Ford Focus driven by the defendant. He conducted a roadside drug test which tested positive for cocaine and Mr Bewick was arrested. A subsequent blood sample confirmed the presence of cocaine in Mr Bewick's system.

Ms Cathy McDarby, solicitor for Mr Bewick said her client admitted trying cocaine at a party on the Friday and did not realise the drug would still be in his system when he was detected driving on the Sunday afternoon. She said he held his hands up and apologised for the offence and added it will not happen again.

Ms McDarby told Judge Fiona Lydon that this was her client's first time to take cocaine but admitted that he has taken drugs and he would be positive if he took a hair follicle test. She added that he informs her that he does not require the supervision of the Probation Services to deal with any drug issue.

The court heard that Mr Bewick had no previous convictions and Judge Lydon banned him from driving for one year and imposed a 1,000 fine.
A SENIOR officer with the HSE in the west of Ireland says the construction of a 70-bed ward block in Mayo University Hospital could take another three years to begin, despite it being a priority.

A meeting of the HSE Regional Health Forum West which took place this week heard that progress is taking place on planning for the new Emergency Department and Acute Medical Admissions Unit project at Mayo University Hospital (MHU).

Planning permission was granted at the beginning of March with the first 'enabling works' for construction to start later in the summer.

Castlebar-based Independent councillor Michael Kilcoyne who is a member of the forum asked for an update on the proposed expansion to the hospital which includes the new ward block. He was informed that an expansion to accommodate new acute inpatient wards on the upper floors has been identified but the ward block project is still at feasibility stage.

A capital submission including a project brief needs to be completed defining the scope of the project and the supporting business case. It is anticipated this would be done during 2024. A design team will then need to be appointed to progress the design, statutory approvals and tendering processes before any construction works can commence, a report from Joe Hoare, Assistant National Director, HSE Capital & Estates stated.

Based on this response, Cllr Kilcoyne asked HSE management to comment on his assumption that it will be another three to four years at least before there are any additional beds on the block.

Ann Cosgrove, the Chief Operations Officer with the Saolta Hospital Group, which includes MUH, largely agreed with Cllr Kilcoyne's comments.

We have developed a brief for the ward block and have identified a potential location but that has to go through the formal capital submission nationally and the formal approval. In real terms you are talking about two to three years before you have additional beds, she said.

Ms Cosgrove added that six additional beds have been opened in the last week in the St John's Unit in the Sacred Heart Hospital in Castlebar to support the hospital activity and they also work very closely with the district hospitals to ensure beds are filled.

We do work very diligently to try and use all beds in the county to support patient activity but it will be a few years before we have a new ward block on the site, she added.

While welcoming the progress on the new Emergency Department in MUH, Cllr Kilcoyne said that without extra beds it will not solve the issue of patients waiting on trolleys.

Ms Cosgrove stated he was 'absolutely correct' and accepted that the hospital needed both facilities.

It [ward block] is an identified project and nationally we have flagged it very much over the last two years but there haven't been too many ward blocks approved throughout the country. Mayo would be one of the sites where we have prioritised for a ward block, she said.

Cllr Kilcoyne suggested that the new Taoiseach may advance the project as he was a former Minister of Health and he should 'know how badly it is needed'.
Independent Mayo County Councillor and former garda Christy Hyland has condemned the draping of the tricolour on the coffin of Pearse McAuley, who murdered Detective Gerry McCabe in 1996.

A county councillor and former garda has branded the draping of the Republic of Ireland flag over the coffin of the man who murdered Gerry McCabe as absolutely despicable.

Pearse McAuley murdered Detective Gerry McCabe during an attempted robbery of a post office van in 1996.

The former IRA man had a tricolour flag draped over his coffin during his funeral in Strabane.

The display met with sharp criticism from Fine Gael leader Simon Harris, who described McAuley as a garda killer and called on his party colleagues to take back the flag.

Echoing Mr Harris comments, Westport-based councillor Christy Hyland slammed the display of the Republic of Ireland flag at the funeral.

It was despicable, absolutely despicable, where I viewed, and so did everyone else, the tricolour on the coffin of the person who murdered a member of the Garda Siochana, a former colleague of mine, Cllr Hyland said at the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council.

Cllr Hylands branded the display of the tricolour as absolutely horrendous after his remarks were met with here here from several council colleagues.

Addressing Mr Harris comments on McAuleys funeral, Cllr Hyland called on Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and Independents to take back the tricolour.

But how dare they put the tricolour over the guy that shot Gerry McCabe at the side of the road below in Adare in County Limerick. Its absolutely disgusting, the former garda added.

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris branded the display of the tricolour as outrageous when asked about it at the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors conference in Westport.

In 2015, McAuley received a 12-year jail sentence for stabbing his estranged wife, Pauline Tully, now a Sinn Fein TD, with a steak knife at her home on Christmas Eve in 2014.

Senior Sinn Fein figures have distanced themselves from McCabe, including TDs Eoin OBroin and Pearse Doherty, who said he was not a republican.

ENDS
by Adam Buckman , Featured Columnist, March 27, 2024

What can we learn from the experience of the Jews in Eastern Europe when the gravity of the German onslaught and occupation became understood and escape routes formerly open were soon closed?

When should they have packed up their trunks and suitcases to flee to the West? When is it ever the right time?

These questions arose while watching Episode One of We Were The Lucky Ones, Hulus eight-part limited series about the separation of a closeknit Jewish Polish family and what they endured under the jackboot of the Nazis.

According to the series -- adapted from a novel of the same name by Georgia Hunter -- the Jewish experience in Poland began with a creeping anti-Semitism that started to set in even before the Germans invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, and started World War II.

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The word Lucky in the title should not be misconstrued. If it seems to indicate that the family at the center of We Were The Lucky Ones skipped gaily and unscathed through the Nazi nightmare years, then that inference is dead wrong.

In the show, the definition of lucky is relative. Their so-called luck under the terrors the show depicts stems only from phantom twists of fate impossible to foresee that suddenly appear out of nowhere and at random.

In this way, watching We Were The Lucky Ones is an uncomfortable, hold-your-breath, edge-of-your-seat experience.

The story starts in a small city called Radom in Poland, where the family is enjoying an upper middle-class lifestyle.

The patriarch is a merchant with a successful store, and the various grown children include an accomplished musician making a name for himself in Paris, one son studying law and a daughter who works as a physicians assistant.

In a single episode -- the first one -- the family goes from comfort to degradation in what seems like the snap of a finger.

But thats not the case. The Passover Seder in spring 1939 (pictured above) is intended to symbolize a last supper.

After September 1, the vise tightens quickly, but the family seeks refuge in denial until its too late.

The process of the persecution of the Jews in Poland and elsewhere started gradually with the passing of a series of anti-Semitic laws.

A few weeks ago, a friend of mine who is Jewish (as am I) told me he and his wife have been having conversations lately about moving to Israel.

She is more eager to go than he is, he told me, so they made an agreement: Theyll leave when someone starts making laws. They no longer feel safe in America.

We Were The Lucky Ones starts streaming on Thursday, March 28, on Hulu.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, March 26, 2024

A search advertiser can't proceed in court with claims that Google conspired with Apple to avoid competing in the search business, a federal judge has ruled.

In a dismissal order issued Monday, U.S. District Court Judge Pitts in the Northern District of California completely threw out the advertiser's claims against Apple, and sent the claims against Google to arbitration because its contract with advertisers requires arbitration of disputes.

The order came in a lawsuit brought in 2021 by Google advertiser California Crane School, which alleged that Google's longstanding status as the default search engine in Apple's Safari was part of a conspiracy to avoid competition. California Crane also contended that the alleged conspiracy resulted in higher prices for search ads.

Pitts ruled that California Crain's allegations, even if true, wouldn't prove a violation of antitrust laws.

Googles dominance in the search and search advertising markets alone is insufficient to allege that Google and Apple are engaged in a horizontal antitrust conspiracy, as its dominance could rationally be attributed to a number of other market factors, Pitts wrote in an opinion issued late last week.

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He added that the deal between Google and Apple could just as easily suggest rational unilateral behavior by both companies (which each profit from the arrangement) as it could suggest the existence of an unlawful conspiracy to refrain from competing with one another in the search and search advertising markets.

Last month, a different federal judge dismissed a lawsuit by web users who alleged that Google's search partnership with Apple violated antitrust laws.

In that case, U.S. District Court Judge Rita Lin in the Northern District of California wrote that there were no plausible allegations that defendants entered into an illegal horizontal agreement or that defendants exclusive default agreement substantially foreclosed competition in the U.S. general search services market.

The federal government is separately suing Google for allegedly monopolizing the search market. That case, which is pending in front of U.S. District Court Judge Amit Mehta in Washington, D.C., largely centers on Google's search partnership with Apple.
by Ray Schultz , March 26, 2024

The Washington Post has named Emma Brown as deputy editor of its rapid-response investigations team, following a three-month stint in that role on an interim basis.

Having joined the rapid-response team as a reporter in 2017, Brown broke the story of Christine Blasey Fords sexual assault allegations against Supreme Court candidate Brett Kavanaugh. She has also has scored other scoops and led a team of reporters to create a narrative on Ted Leonsis's decision to move the Washington Wizards and the Capitals to Northern Virginia.

Brown has distinguished herself as a thoughtful leader with incisive judgment and a steady hand, the Post says.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, March 27, 2024

A federal appeals court has revived a lawsuit by iPhone users who said they lost money after downloading the fake cryptocurrency app Toast Plus from Apple's app store.

In an unsigned opinion issued Wednesday, a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals said Section 230 of the Communications Decency App didn't protect Apple from consumer protection claims regarding its representations about the the safety of its app store. That law generally immunizes interactive services from liability for material posted by third parties.

The ruling comes in a dispute dating to 2021, when Hadona Diep and Ryumei Nagao alleged in a class-action complaint that they incurred losses after downloading Toast Plus -- a phishing app disguised as a cryptocurrency wallet.

The pair contended that they thought the app was legitimate based on Apple's representations that its app store was a safe and trusted place.

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U.S. District Court Judge Phyllis Hamilton dismissed the complaint in 2022, ruling that Apple was protected by Section 230 of the Communications Decency App. That dismissal was with prejudice, which prevented the duo from revising their claims and bringing them again.

Diep and Nagao appealed to the 9th Circuit, arguing that their case centered on Apple's own statements about the safety of its app store.

Apple countered the claims inextricably depend on the app's content -- and were therefore covered by Section 230.

The appellate panel ruled that Section 230 barred some claims in the lawsuit, but didn't apply to Apple's own statements about the app store and its process for reviewing apps.

Section 230 would not "bar a well-pleaded consumer protection claim," the judges wrote.

At the same time, the panel ruled that the complaint brought by Diep and Nagao wasn't adequately fleshed, but said Hamilton should have allowed the pair to amend their allegations. The ruling issued Wednesday allows Diep and Nagao to beef up their claims that Apple violated state consumer protection laws and bring those claims again.

It's not clear whether they will be able to do so.

Last year, a coalition including the digital rights group Electronic Frontier Foundation, business organization Chamber of Commerce and tech-industry groups NetChoice and Chamber of Progress urged the appellate court to rule in Apple's favor.

Those groups warned that a decision against Apple could lead app stores to remove many third-party apps.

The real thrust of plaintiffs claims is that they were harmed by third-party content published on an app store, the organizations wrote. The only way Apple could have met its alleged duties would be to monitor and remove third-party content.

The groups added that consumers, app developers and the broader internet ecosystem will be harmed if companies like Apple are effectively forced to meticulously review apps in advance.

Santa Clara University law professor Eric Goldman, who closely follows litigation involving Section 230, predicts that plaintiffs in other lawsuits against tech companies will leverage Wednesday's decision.

This ruling basically gives plaintiffs a way to get around 230, he says, adding that plaintiffs might now pick through every on-site disclosure made by tech companies in hopes of arguing that they violated their representations by allowing harmful material on their platforms.

Jess Miers, senior counsel at the Chamber of Progress, adds that the ruling could pave the way for plaintiffs to sue tech companies over content moderation decisions. For instance, if a tech company fails to remove posts that arguably violate its content moderation policies, that company might now be more vulnerable to lawsuits claiming it misrepresented its policies.
by Ray Schultz , March 27, 2024

The Long Beach (California) Post, a nonprofit newsroom, is facing a backlash following the layoff of nine employees on its news staff.

The Long Beach Media Guild, which was formed earlier this month and seeks recognition by the company, reported that the staff was reduced from 17 to eight, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The union claims that the layoffs followed a decision to unionize and some staff members saw them as retaliation.

However, CEO Melissa Evans said in a memo that she and the board reached the conclusion that immediate layoffs were the only feasible option to keep the Post solvent.

Evans added, Im aware of both social media posts and an online petition alleging staff layoffs were carried out in retaliation against news staff who sought to unionize. This is false. In reality, staff were made aware that layoffs were inevitable before they moved to unionize.

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Specifically, As of Friday, our full-time staff is now roughly 50% smaller, consisting of six exceptionally talented journalists and two tenacious business-side employees, Evans continued.

Explaining the corporate history, Evans wrote: Four months ago, the Post separated from our for-profit ownership, quickly became a nonprofit and retained nearly all of our previous staff based on the promise of several large donations, some of which did not materialize, Evans said.
by Ray Schultz , March 27, 2024

Bucking the trend of newspapers selling off real estate, Reade Brower, publisher of The Courier-Gazette, Camden Herald, Republican Journal and Free Press, is buying a two-story building in Camden, Maine.

The newspaper operations could move into the location on Mechanic Street as early as this summer.

Now housed in the building are Jaret & Cohn, Bagel Cafe, the Mechanic Street Barbershop and the Inn at Camden Place.

Brower plans to use the second floor for the newspapers for Islandport Press, a book publication firm, and for Mail Maine, his direct mail marketing company, according to an article by Daniel Dunkle, executive editor of the newspapers.

Its the perfect building, Brower says, the report continues. It fits all the criteria. It is much more versatile and allows us to branch out.
About

As we age, our immune system weakens, making us more vulnerable to infectious diseases. For grandparents, staying healthy means not only safeguarding their well-being but also protecting the health of their grandchildren and other loved ones. Vaccination plays a crucial role in achieving this goal, providing essential protection against a range of preventable illnesses. Let's understand the importance of vaccines for older adults and discuss the key vaccines recommended for grandparents.

What are Geriatric Vaccines?

Geriatric vaccines, also known as senior or adult vaccines, are immunizations specifically designed to protect older adults against infectious diseases. As individuals age, their immune system naturally weakens, making them more susceptible to infections and less responsive to vaccines they received earlier in life(1 Trusted Source

Efficacy and Safety of Vaccinations in Geriatric Patients: A Literature Review



Go to source). Geriatric vaccines are tailored to address these age-related changes in immunity and provide older adults with essential protection against preventable illnesses.

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Why Vaccines Matter for Older Adults

Vaccines are not just for children; they are equally important for older adults. As we age, our immune system changes, becoming less effective at fighting off infections. This makes older adults more susceptible to certain diseases, such as influenza, pneumonia, and shingles.

Did You Know? Senior citizens should get vaccinated not only to protect themselves but also to contribute to the concept of 'herd immunity', safeguarding the entire community from contagious diseases!

These vaccines are important for maintaining health and well-being in later years, as older adults are at increased risk of serious complications and hospitalization from these vaccine-preventable diseases. Geriatric vaccines work by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that recognize and neutralize specific pathogens, helping to prevent infection or reduce the severity of illness if infection does occur. By receiving recommended vaccines, older adults can not only protect themselves but also contribute to the overall health of their families and communities by reducing the spread of infectious diseases.

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For older adults, vaccination offers several important benefits:

Protecting Personal Health:

  Trusted Source

Do influenza and pneumococcal vaccines prevent community-acquired respiratory infections among older people with diabetes and does this vary by chronic kidney disease? A cohort study using electronic health records



Go to source Trusted Source

By getting vaccinated, grandparents can reduce their risk of contracting serious diseases and experiencing severe complications. Vaccines such as the flu shot and pneumococcal vaccine help prevent respiratory infections and other illnesses that can lead to hospitalization or even death().

Preventing Transmission:

Vaccination not only protects individuals but also helps prevent the spread of disease to others. Grandparents who are vaccinated are less likely to transmit infections to their grandchildren and other family members, especially those who may be too young to be fully vaccinated or have compromised immune systems.

Setting an Example:

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By prioritizing vaccination, grandparents can set a positive example for their family members and encourage others to prioritize their health. This can help promote a culture of immunization within the family and community.

For older adults, receiving recommended vaccinations is crucial for maintaining optimal health and preventing serious illnesses. The following vaccines are recommended for older adults(3 Trusted Source

Vaccinations in Older Adults



Go to source):

Influenza Vaccine:

The influenza vaccine, commonly known as the flu shot, is a yearly immunization that protects against seasonal influenza viruses. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to complications from the flu, including pneumonia and exacerbation of underlying health conditions. By getting vaccinated annually, seniors can significantly reduce their risk of flu-related hospitalization and mortality.

Pneumococcal Vaccine:

Pneumococcal vaccines protect against infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, which can lead to pneumonia, meningitis , and bloodstream infections. There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines recommended for older adults: the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). These vaccines are especially important for seniors with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems.

Herpes Zoster Vaccine:

The herpes zoster vaccine , also known as the shingles vaccine, helps prevent shingles, a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Shingles can be debilitating for older adults, leading to chronic pain and complications such as postherpetic neuralgia. The vaccine is recommended for individuals aged 50 and older, even if they have previously had shingles.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis Vaccine:

The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus diphtheria , and pertussis (whooping cough). Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a serious bacterial infection that can cause muscle stiffness and spasms. Diphtheria is a contagious respiratory disease that can lead to breathing difficulties and heart problems. Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can be severe, particularly in older adults.

Hepatitis B Vaccine:

The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for older adults who are at increased risk of hepatitis B infection due to factors such as healthcare work, travel to endemic regions, or certain medical conditions. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and other serious complications. Vaccination is an effective way to prevent hepatitis B transmission and protect liver health in older adults.

In India, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare provides guidelines for vaccination in older adults(4 Trusted Source

Guidelines for vaccination in normal adults in India



Go to source). The National Immunization Schedule includes recommendations for vaccines such as influenza, pneumococcal, and tetanus-diphtheria vaccines for individuals aged 60 years and older.

Additionally, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) collaborates with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to develop comprehensive vaccination guidelines tailored to the unique healthcare needs of older adults in India. These guidelines are designed to address the specific epidemiological and demographic factors influencing vaccine-preventable diseases in the country's aging population.

The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) plays a pivotal role in formulating vaccination policies and guidelines for older adults, ensuring alignment with international standards and best practices. NTAGI regularly reviews scientific evidence and epidemiological data to make informed recommendations regarding vaccine inclusion, scheduling, and administration in the elderly population.

In addition to routine vaccinations recommended for all adults, such as influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, the Indian guidelines may also emphasize the importance of vaccines against diseases prevalent in the region, such as hepatitis B and typhoid fever. The guidelines prioritize vaccines based on disease burden, vaccine efficacy, safety profile, and cost-effectiveness to optimize public health outcomes.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare collaborates with state health departments and healthcare providers to implement vaccination programs targeting older adults. These programs often involve outreach initiatives, vaccination drives, and public awareness campaigns to ensure equitable access to vaccines and promote vaccination uptake among elderly individuals across diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

Overall, adherence to Indian guidelines for vaccination in older adults is essential for reducing the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases, enhancing the health and well-being of the elderly population, and achieving national public health objectives related to immunization coverage and disease control.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Giorgos Kotsiras, highlighted the dynamism of the Greek Diaspora in Canada and reaffirmed the Greek States commitment to strengthen its ties with the Diaspora Greeks.

"The enthusiastic reception of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis by the Greeks of Canada, their passion, and selfless love for Greece, their commitment to preserving our cultural heritage, their pivotal role in developing Greek-Canadian relations and promoting our country's image abroad, all bolster our confidence and reinforce our resolve to bring Diaspora Greeks even closer to the metropolitan center," Mr. Kotsiras stated emphatically.

Participating in Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis official visit to Canada and the Diasporas festivities commemorating the 25th of March, the Deputy Minister had a series of contacts with representatives from Diaspora associations as well as ecclesiastical and academic institutions.

In particular, within the framework of the festivities for the March 25th anniversary, Mr. Kotsiras laid a wreath at the War Cenotaph of the Laval Municipality and delivered an address at an honorary dinner hosted by the Hellenic Community of Greater Montreal. In his address, the Deputy Minister characterized the relationship of the Greek State with the Diaspora Greeks as "structural" and "existential." "We all owe it, from whatever position we serve the national interest, to ensure that we keep this relationship alive," he emphasized, referring in particular, to three initiatives that reflect the Government's practical interest in the Diaspora: firstly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Strategic Plan for Greeks Abroad- "a unified, cohesive policy for the Diaspora," secondly, the upgrading of consular services with the use of digital technology, and thirdly, the lifting of voting restrictions for the Diaspora and postal voting, a "huge step of democracy and equality," as he stated. Mr. Kotsiras praised the contribution of the Greeks of Canada in defending and disseminating our national positions and the positive trajectory of Greece in recent years. "Greece is progressing, entering a new era with greater confidence, and you all have contributed to this effort," he pointedly said.

The Deputy Minister attended the official Doxology at the Holy Church of the Annunciation of the Theotokos and the large parade of the Diaspora in Montreal, along with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Furthermore, he joined the expanded talks between the Prime Minister and his Canadian counterpart and attended the Prime Minister's speeches at the Diaspora events in Montreal and Toronto.

During his stay in Canada, the Deputy Minister met with the President of the Hellenic Community of Greater Montreal, George Tsoukas; the President of the Hellenic Community of Toronto, Betty Skoutaki; the President of the Hellenic Congress of Quebec, Sotirios Antypas; and the President of the Canadian-Hellenic Congress, Dr.Theodore Halatsis. Mr. Kotsiras highlighted the significant contribution of the Diaspora associations to the promotion of the Greek element in Canada as well as his own pursuit to enhance communication and cooperation with them.

Furthermore, the Deputy Minister visited the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada, where he was received by His Eminence Archbishop Sotirios of Canada. During the meeting, Mr. Kotsiras praised the multi-faceted social and educational work of the Archdiocese and its pivotal role in uniting Hellenism.

While in Montreal, Mr. Kotsiras visited the Socrates-Demosthenes day school of the Community, and in Toronto, the Metamorphosis Greek Orthodox Day School of the Archdiocese, emphasizing the support of the Greek State for Greek language education and the possibilities of utilizing modern digital tools, such as the online learning platform for the Greek language, staellinika.com.

Lastly, the Deputy Minister had meetings with Professor Anastasios Anastasiadis, holder of the "Phrixos B. Papachristidis" Chair in Modern Greek Studies at McGill University in Montreal, Professor Sakis Gekas, holder of the Chair in Modern Greek History of the Hellenic Heritage Foundation at York University in Toronto, and the President of the Quebec Hellenic Scholarship Foundation, Yiannis Chatzinikolaou. Mr. Kotsiras expressed the support of the Greek State for the study of the Greek Diaspora, the promotion of Greek Studies, and the networking of academic institutions, emphasizing the significance of rewarding the excellence of young Diaspora members who represent a new generation of worthy ambassadors of Greece internationally.
Two Army helicopter pilots were injured after their aircraft went down on Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state Monday evening during a routine training exercise, according to a service statement.

The soldiers were taken to a hospital after their AH-64E Apache helicopter assigned to 4th Squadron, 6th Air Cavalry Regiment, 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, crashed a little before 10 p.m., Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Bryen Freigo told Military.com in an email.

The incident comes after two National Guard Apache crashes in February, and an active-duty helicopter crash overseas late last year that killed five soldiers.

Read Next: Picture of Special Forces Soldier Wearing Nazi Patch Triggers Army Investigation

"The two crew members were medically evacuated to Madigan Army Medical Center for evaluation and treatment and remain at the hospital in stable condition," Freigo said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with these families and soldiers during their recovery."

Freigo further confirmed an investigative team from the Army Combat Readiness Center at Fort Novosel, Alabama, has been deployed to look into the incident. A spokesperson for the center said they could provide no further comment at this time.

While the last active-duty Army helicopter crash claimed the lives of five Special Forces troops when it went down while conducting non-combat operations over the Mediterranean Sea in November, the Army National Guard has seen a surge in helicopter crashes over the last few months alone.

It temporarily grounded all of its helicopters after the component suffered back-to-back AH-64 Apache crashes last month. A Feb. 12 crash near Salt Lake City resulted in two Utah National Guardsmen suffering mild injuries but ultimately surviving the incident, an unfortunate rarity for aviation crashes.

The second occurred Feb. 23 in northern Mississippi and claimed the lives of pilots Chief Warrant Officer 4 Bryan Andrew Zemek, 36, and Chief Warrant Officer 4 Derek Joshua Abbott, 42.

Earlier this month, a helicopter carrying U.S. Border Patrol agents and National Guardsmen went down while flying over the U.S.-Mexico border, killing one agent and two Guardsmen. The UH-72 Lakota helicopter was part of the government's border security mission, according to a statement from Joint Task Force North.

As of April 2023, a report from the Government Accountability Office noted there had been at least 28 Army National Guardsmen killed in rotary-wing mishaps over the last decade. Between the Army and Air National Guards, there were 298 mishaps reported between fiscal 2020 and 2021 alone.

As these units are often heavily manned by part-time troops, the National Guard has issues maintaining aircraft and ensuring its pilots have enough flight time, which may be partly responsible for the high number of incidents, the report found.

No such research has been conducted since at least 2018 on similar active-duty Army aviation incidents.

-- Rachel Nostrant is a Marine Corps veteran and freelance journalist, with work published in Reuters, New York Magazine, Military Times and more.

Related: Soldiers Killed in Apache Helicopter Crash Are Identified by Mississippi National Guard
A $6 billion settlement in a series of lawsuits over allegations that earplugs sold to the military by manufacturing giant 3M during the height of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars caused hearing damage will move forward after nearly 250,000 veterans and service members agreed to accept the deal, the company announced this week.

The settlement in what has been one of the largest federal mass tort cases in U.S. history was announced in August, but the deal stipulated that it would move forward only if at least 98% of the veterans who filed claims against 3M agreed to it. With the deadline for veterans to opt-in now past, the company announced Tuesday that 99% of eligible claimants have agreed to participate in the settlement.

"Once all the settlement registrations that have been submitted by claimants have been processed and validated, 3M anticipates that the settlement will have achieved a more than 99.9% participation level," the company said in a news release.

Read Next: Picture of Special Forces Soldier Wearing Nazi Patch Triggers Army Investigation

The cases revolved around 3M's Combat Arms Earplugs, Version 2, that were issued to troops between 2003 and 2015. The earplugs were dual-sided with one side meant to block out all sound and the other meant to protect from loud sounds such as explosions while letting the user hear soft noises such as speech.

Lawsuits filed by nearly 300,000 veterans and service members alleged the earplugs had design flaws that allowed them to slip in users' ears without them noticing, letting in damaging noise and resulting in hearing loss or tinnitus. Before the settlement, some lawsuits had gone to trial and saw mixed results.

Out of more 293,000 claims filed before the settlement, more than 249,000 claimants registered to participate in the settlement and more than 41,000 claims were dismissed by courts, 3M said Tuesday.

While it agreed to the settlement, 3M continues to deny liability and maintains the earplugs were "safe and effective for its intended purpose" when "used properly."

Bryan Aylstock, a lead attorney for the plaintiffs, told Military.com on Wednesday his team is happy to see the settlement moving forward.

"We're definitely pleased with the level of support both from service members and veterans, also veterans service organizations, and pleased with settlement itself," he said in a brief phone interview.

While veterans groups backed the settlement and the vast majority of claimants opted-in, some veterans have been vocal about believing the deal did not go far enough.

Some settlement payments were already issued earlier this year, but the bulk will be paid out on a rolling basis through 2029. Under the terms of the settlement, the exact amount each claimant will get will be based on their medical records.

The settlement agreement is being managed by litigation management firm BrownGreer, which has set up a website for claimants to track the settlement at www.combatarmssettlement.com.

Related: 3M Sets Up $1 Billion Trust to Settle Veterans' Suits over Earplugs
An Air Force colonel who was the commander of a maintenance group at a base in New Mexico has been fired from his leadership role, marking the latest in a string of command shake-ups this month.

Col. Danzel Albertsen, commander of the 49th Maintenance Group at Holloman Air Force Base, was removed from his leadership role Monday, according to a news release from the base.

Air Force Col. Justin Spears, the commander of the 49th Wing, removed Albertsen "due to a loss of confidence in his ability to lead," adding that "new leadership was necessary to ensure a proper command climate and appropriate leadership for our airmen."

Read Next: Picture of Special Forces Soldier Wearing Nazi Patch Triggers Army Investigation

"This was a difficult decision to make, but one that is ultimately in the best interests of the unit," Spears said.

The services often don't disclose specifics of why a commander or military leader is fired, typically citing the federal Privacy Act that protects military records, and usually rely on the phrase "loss of trust and confidence" instead of detailing the specific reasons behind a relief, including whether there was misconduct.

The 49th Maintenance Group's deputy commander, Lt. Col. Kristen Torma, will take over command for Albertsen effective immediately, the base said in the press release.

The maintenance group based at Holloman is a team of more than 2,100 airmen, civilians and contractors, according to the wing's website. The group is in charge of maintenance on F-16 Fighting Falcons, T-38 Talons, QF-16 Full-Scale Aerial Targets and MQ-9 Reaper drones, which supports training for a wide variety of pilots.

Albertsen became commander of the maintenance group in June 2022, according to his service biography. Prior to that, he was the director of staff for Air University located at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, and the deputy commander of the 379th Expeditionary Maintenance Group at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

Albertsen is from Saint Joseph, Missouri, and was commissioned in 2001 through the Air Force Officer Training School, according to the service biography.

Denise Ottaviano, a spokesperson for Holloman Air Force Base, declined to comment on whether Albertsen has been reassigned to another job at the base or if he's facing any legal action.

Additionally, Albertsen did not respond to phone calls and messages left at various numbers listed in public records for him.

News of Albertsen's removal comes after Air Force officials at Joint Base Charleston in South Carolina fired two commanders and reassigned one senior enlisted leader from a medical group at the base earlier this month.

Col. Anadis Collado, the 628th Group commander, and Lt. Col. Douglas Grabowski, the 628th Healthcare Operations Squadron commander, were removed from their respective leadership positions. The reasons given were due to "a loss in trust and confidence in their ability to lead," the base told Military.com.

Late last year also marked the departure of several commanders from their positions.

Col. Christopher Meeker, commander of the 88th Air Base Wing at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, was removed from his position in December.

Additionally in December, the Air Force punished 15 Air National Guard enlisted members and officers in connection to the case of classified information that was leaked by Jack Teixeira, a 21-year-old airman at a Massachusetts base, citing a "lack of supervision" that enabled the incident.

Named specifically was Col. Sean Riley, commander of the 102nd Intelligence Wing at Otis Air National Guard Base, and Col. Enrique Dovalo, commander of the 102nd Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group, a subordinate unit at the base. Both received administrative action related to the incident, Military.com reported.

While Riley was relieved of command for cause, Dovalo's punishment was not disclosed, the Air Force said.

Related: Air Force Fires 2 Medical Group Commanders, Reassigns Senior Enlisted Leader
The Army is investigating a National Guard social media account posting that contained an image of a soldier wearing a patch appearing to depict Nazi symbolism.

On Sunday, the 20th Special Forces Group, headquartered in Alabama, posted a photo on Instagram with the caption, "That weekend feeling. Enjoy the rest of your weekend. Don't stop training. Don't get complacent."

The photo had three soldiers, one of whom was wearing a patch that seemed to depict the Nazi SS Totenkopfverbande -- a distinct skull and crossbones, or "death's head". The imagery is common for white supremacist groups, particularly in Europe, and was first noted on social media by U.S. Army W.T.F! Moments.

Read Next: Pentagon Policy Paying Travel Costs for Abortions, Other Health Care Was Used Only 12 Times from June to December

The Army made conflicting statements about the patch Tuesday. The patch was on the soldier's helmet, and the photo, like most imagery involving special operations that public affairs officials post on social media, was edited to blur out faces. That means the photo went through some kind of vetting process before publication. It's unclear how the Nazi imagery went unnoticed. The post has since been deleted.

"The use of symbols and patches depicting historic images of hate are not tolerated and a clear violation of our values," Jacqueline Hill, a spokesperson for Army Special Operations Command, told Military.com in a statement. "We are aware of the situation and looking into the matter further."

But on Tuesday, when a commenter on Instagram asked about the Nazi imagery, the 20th Special Forces account rebuked the characterization.

"There was not one. It's a 3rd group team patch taken out of context," it said, referencing 3rd Special Forces Group, based out of Fort Liberty, North Carolina. It's unclear what was out of context. But the soldier wearing the patch was with 20th Group, according to Hill.

The Totenkopfverbande were among the three components of the Schutzstaffel, or SS, a major paramilitary organization under Adolf Hitler, and oversaw concentration camps. The Nazis in those units wore the skull on their collar to distinguish themselves from other SS troops. The patch worn by the soldier in the photo included a palm tree behind the so-called Death's Head, a reference to an SS division's campaign in Africa. It's a modified version of the rank-and-file Nazi insignia in the African campaign, which included the same palm tree but with a swastika in the middle.

Many of the Nazi officers and personnel who ran the early years of those concentration camps were eventually reassigned to the Waffen-SS, the Nazi ground combat force. Those troops would lead the 3rd SS Panzer Division Totenkopf, which would go on to commit a series of war crimes against soldiers and civilians in Africa and other campaigns in France, Poland and the Soviet Union.

Extremism within the American military has become a growing concern highlighted by the involvement of some veterans and service members in the Jan. 6, 2021, violence at the U.S. Capitol aimed at keeping former President Donald Trump in power after he lost the 2020 election. A Military.com investigation detailed that, while service members and veterans are not more likely to join radical groups than the general population, they are more likely to be targeted for recruitment, and can beef up a group's credibility and capabilities.

Related: What the Pentagon Has, Hasn't and Could Do to Stop Veterans and Troops from Joining Extremist Groups
The former superintendent of the Holyoke Soldiers Home, where at least 76 veterans died in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, has admitted to five charges of neglect but will serve no prison time.

Judge Edward McDonough, Jr., accepted Bennett Walsh plea admitting to sufficient facts to five counts of neglect of an elder related to Walshs decision to combine multiple dementia care units into one in March 2020, which in turn led to the deaths of numerous residents who had not been exposed to the virus before the change.

McDonough ordered the case be continued for three months without a finding and ordered Walsh to comply with probationary conditions including that Walsh not contact the victims families or work in a medical field. McDonough did not impose probation itself. This finding was identical to the defenses recommendation.

The prosecution recommended that Walsh serve three years of probation with the first year under home confinement. The prosecutor said the recommendation for only probation and not any prison was made because Walsh had a clean criminal record. The maximum penalty for each count was three years in state prison.

Over the course of the roughly hour-long hearing in Hampshire Superior Court in Northampton, the prosecution and the defense painted different pictures of the crisis at the Soldiers Home.

The prosecutor said that the conditions of the consolidated dementia care unit were quite bad and had been described variously by those who witnessed it as a war zone, a battlefield, and the worst I have ever seen.

The prosecutor described the consolidated unit as overly ad hoc, and that dementia care patients were seen wandering around naked, or nearly so, and crammed so tightly that there were double the allowed number of people per room.

When the unit was first created, the prosecutor argued, five of nine residents who were assigned to live in the dining room were asymptomatic for COVID19, but the cramped conditions and lack of medical care caused them to come down with the fatal virus.

Walsh said during his change of plea that he accepted there were sufficient facts to convict him of neglect, but that he does not admit that such a decision was wanton and reckless in light of the situation.

Walsh and his attorney said that Walsh, a career military man, had assessed the dire staffing shortage in light of the current guidance coming from state and federal leaders in those confused, early days of COVID.

Walshs attorney said that in the weeks leading up to the crisis at the Soldiers Home, the flu had been bad in Massachusetts but the state had only seen one confirmed case of COVID-19. He said that leaders sent out an email basically saying that, Yes, it is very contagious but it is also not a danger to the majority of people who catch it.

This is a developing story.

2024 MediaNews Group, Inc. Visit at bostonherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
TAIPEI, Taiwan  Taiwan has commissioned two new navy ships as a safeguard against the rising threat from China, which has been ratcheting up its naval and air force missions around the island that it claims as its own territory to be annexed by force if necessary.

The pair of Tuo Chiang class corvettes completes the first order of six of the domestically produced catamarans with stealth capabilities. The ships are relatively small, capable of carrying just 41 sailors and officers, but are fast and highly maneuverable and carry a range of missiles and deck guns aimed at countering larger Chinese vessels and rocketry.

Outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen oversaw the commissioning on Tuesday at the northern port of Suao, emphasizing her push to revitalize Taiwans defense industries, alongside extensive arms purchases and support from key ally the United States.

Tsai has also fast-tracked the production of trainer jets and the island's first homebuilt submarines, sometimes pushing budgets for such purchases through the legislature against resistance from representatives of the opposition Nationalist Party, which favors eventual unification with China.

Ma Ying-jeou, the last president from the Nationalists, also known as the KMT, is reportedly planning a visit to China next month that could include a meeting with Communist Party leader Xi Jinping.

Taiwan was colonized by China in the 1600s but later taken over by Japan, before reverting to the Republic of China at the end of World War II. The sides then split again amid the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Xi has been building his military with an eye to consolidating China's territorial claims throughout the Pacific, the South China Sea and along the contested high-mountain border with India.

China boasts the world's largest standing military and biggest navy  with three aircraft carriers  but has not fought in a major conflict since its brief 1979 invasion of Vietnam. Since then, its military budget has ballooned to the world's second largest behind the U.S., alongside a huge expansion of its economy, which is now showing signs of losing steam.

Most recently, frictions between patrol vessels from the sides near Taiwan-controlled islands just off the Chinese coast have renewed concerns about a conflict that could draw in the U.S., which is legally bound to ensure Taiwan can defend itself and considers all threats to the island as matters of grave concern.

While vastly outgunned, Taiwan's military has been bolstered by new weaponry and an extension of the universal period of national service for men from four months to one year. Its air force, navy and missile corps also respond to near-daily incursions by Chinese ships and planes.

Taiwan's Defense Ministry says it is on alert for a Chinese sneak attack, possibly targeting Tsai or Vice President William Lai, who will take over the top office in May. Both are despised as separatists by Beijing. Recent Taiwanese media reports have shown satellite photos of Chinese People's Liberation Army training grounds including mock-ups of the neighborhood surrounding Taipei's Presidential Office Building.

Taiwan's Defense Ministry said it detected nine Chinese planes and six ships operating around the island between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning.

In Beijing on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Cabinet's Taiwan Affairs Office criticized live-firing exercises by the Taiwanese military planned for next month near the Taiwan-held island group of Kinmen just off the Chinese coast.

Any provocative move Taiwan's military takes is doomed to fail, Chen Binhua said at a biweekly news conference.
By Zhao Li (ECNS) -- The Chinese path to modernization represents a valid model to address the main challenges facing humanity such as sustainable development, the search for peace, and the fight against inequality and poverty, said Javier Garcia, journalism professor at Renmin University of China and former director of Agencia EFE in China. Garcia made the remarks in Wuyishan, Fujian Province while attending the First Wuyi Forum, hosted by Renmin University of China. At a parallel forum, he made a speech titled A New Model for Human Progress. He spoke highly of the Chinese path to modernization. There are three fundamental aspects of the Chinese model that I consider crucial: the construction of an ecological civilization, the peaceful development, and the pragmatic approach, he said. He pointed out that the shift in China's ecological awareness and the priority given to the environment and sustainable development in its policies in recent years has been radical. China is building a green civilization and has emerged as a major driver of the global energy transition. It is a world leader in renewable energy, electric vehicles, reforestation, and innovative ecological projects such as the sponge cities, he said. Talking about Chinas peaceful development path, Javier said it is influenced by ancient Chinese culture. China has a very strong culture which goes back about thousands of years ago. This is very important even now for China. For instance, its peaceful development has a lot to do with ancient figures and philosophers like Confucius or Laozi and even Buddhism in China, he said in an interview with China News Network. Noting Chinas basic principles in international relations like respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, no aggression and peaceful coexistence, Garcia believes they are very important for the world and said China is a very good example. As a seasoned media professional, Garcia also criticized some Western media's distorted reporting on China. There is a clear campaign to denigrate the image of China. Whether China does good things or not, some Western media have always described the bad side, even the very good things that China does, like it has already alleviated the extreme poverty and the ecological policies of China, he said. In this regard, he believes the report on China should be objective.


Dear Lizzy,

Is it considered rude to attend a community egg hunt (advertised as open to all) hosted at a neighborhood church but not the service? I do not wish to offend any church organizers on their important Easter holiday. Should I just take my kid to a spring party hosted by a farm or realtor association? Thanks for your advice and happy spring!

Just Looking For Eggs

Dear Just Looking For Eggs,

I am not a Christian and didnt grow up going to church, but I have been to church plenty of times  the free Bible camp I attended for one day because of the toys they handed out, LDS services when I spent Saturday night at my friends house in middle school, every church in town when I was trying to either rebel or better understand my Catholic boyfriend when I was 18.

In the majority of my experiences, I would say churches are very open to anyone from the community taking part in their activities. Part of the deal with churches is that they are trying to grow, so community activities are a way to meet new potential members. This means I would say, yes, go and skip the services if you want, but know you might get recruited, at least a little.

Since my experience is one-sided and its not the church side, I asked a couple coworkers of mine who have been or are churchgoers what they thought about your question.

Churches arent just about worship services, said my boss, Life and Culture editor Grant Butler, who grew up going to church. Many churches are about building community, and are interested in knowing the people who live around them even if they dont attend. Offering an egg hunt thats open for all is a way for a church to introduce itself to neighbors. Someone attending an egg hunt might learn about things the church does beyond the sanctuary, like running a food pantry, or hosting AA meetings.

My other sometimes-boss, Here is Oregon editor, Kjerstin Gabrielson, agreed with Grant.

Every church I know aims to be a welcoming place for visitors. Id recommend reaching out to the church hosting an egg hunt if you have concerns, she said. Beaverton Christian hosts a big event.

Kjerstin had some additional advice.

I was one of the volunteers at a little parish that put on egg hunts, and you do have to acknowledge that these are events led by volunteers doing the best they can, with no idea how many folks might show up, she said.

So be a gracious guest. Help your child understand that its important to be considerate of the little ones around them. Dont expect full-service anything or an endless supply of candy and eggs. And acknowledge that this is a place that will celebrate Easter as the Christian holiday proclaiming the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. As long as youre good with that, I say go.

There you have it! Go and be respectful! Enjoy the candy and eggs!

Lizzy

P.S. If you live in the Portland area, we have a whole list of Easter egg hunts!

Have a burning question? Send me an email at lacker@oregonian.com or tweet @lizzzyacker! Or, if you want to ask me a question with total anonymity, use this Google form.

Read and listen to more Why Tho? here.
MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, MI - It was a regular Wednesday afternoon for four Muskegon Heights High School seniors when something life-changing happened.

As MaKayla White, MaQuel White, CaMya Jackson, and Naeonna Agnew hopped in the car to Grand Rapids, they didnt know a surprise was in store with American rapper Offset, who is well-known for his part in the group Migos, with Quavo and the late Takeoff.

The day was supposed to be dedicated to getting their passport paperwork done before their trip to West Africa in late June 2024, as part of WUVS 103.7 The Beats KidsfreetriptoAfrica program.

However, much more was planned for the students.

When we first got to the parking lot, Im like, Okay, this doesnt look like the airport, MaKayla White said. We saw these big trucks. And then my friend was like, That looks like the trucks famous people have. I was like, No, that cant be. And then we walked into it and there were Offset shirts everywhere.

White told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press they didnt truly know what was happening until Offset stood right in front of them at GLC Live at 20 Monroe in downtown Grand Rapids.

We walked into the area where the performance will be and he was just standing there, she said. We were all just shocked.

Paul Billings, founder and general manager of WUVS 103.7 THE BEAT in Muskegon, said the surprise was made possible through his connection with Phatboit for Kids, a hip-hop record label nonprofit.

He doesnt just want to make money, he wants to spotlight local nonprofits and show them some love, Billings said about Offset.

He said there happened to be an afterparty in Muskegon with Offset and some live DJs. Thats when Offset told his publicist he wanted to support local organizations while he was in the area.

Since 2017, WUVS 103.7 THE BEAT has taken over 30 Muskegon Heights seniors to West Africa for free.

This year, Billings said he decided to collaborate with the high school on their Black History Month Essay Contest based on the book Systems That Shape(d) Black America by Tracee N. Bruce, a Muskegon Heights High School alum.

Offset found out about our program that we take kids to Africa every year, Billings said. They were contemplating coming to Muskegon Heights to do a surprise guest appearance but time restraints hindered that. So they told the kids to come to Grand Rapids and theyll meet with him.

He told MLive Offset was so touched by their stories and their hard work on the essay contest that he got a copy of the book and each of the students essays to read backstage.

And to top it off, Offset also surprised them with front-row tickets to his show at 20 Monroe and $100 each for their upcoming trip to Ghana, West Africa in late June.

He was touched by how they recalled some of what they learned in the book, so he just reached into his pocket after he walked away and gave the money to his publicist, he said. The kids werent expecting anything. They were happy, already on cloud nine to meet Offset.

After the concert and the adrenaline high from the night came down, the students were still left reeling after the surprise experience.

MaKayla White said it was humbling, describing how grateful they all were.

I am still in my head, like Did I really meet him? Am I sure? she said. He said that he was impressed by us, and it takes a lot of hard work to get to where were at. I felt and carried that. Im pretty sure Im going to carry that for the rest of my life and tell my college friends that Offset said he was impressed by me.

Want more Muskegon area news? Bookmark the local Muskegon news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Muskegon daily newsletter.

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LANSE, MI  A semi-truck driver pleaded guilty this week to charges related to a deadly crash at a gas station in Michigans Upper Peninsula, WLUC reports.

Dawaun Johnson, 22, of Illinois, pleaded guilty to operating while intoxicated causing death, the report said. Other charges were dropped.

In a statement to the Baraga County Circuit Court, Johnson admitted he fell asleep behind the wheel and crashed into the pumps at Holiday Gas Station in LAnse, resulting in the death of a man, the report said.

RELATED: Michigan man dies after semi-truck crashes into U.P. gas station, starts extensive fire

Allan Dantes Jr., 43, of Baraga, was filling his vehicle with gas when the crash happened around 11:10 p.m. on Oct. 13, 2022, MLive previously reported. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital. He is survived by six daughters.

RELATED: Father of 6, U.P. rally racer killed in gas station crash

Johnsons bond was revoked; hes lodged in the Baraga County Jail pending sentencing, the report said. He faces up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of $2,500 to $10,000.
YPSILANTI, MI -- Although she was asleep at the time, Susan Rutley said her son heard yelling and a gunshot the same evening a man was found dead at her apartment complex.

A 22-year-old man from Ypsilanti was found dead around 11 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, at the Sauk Trail Pointe Apartments, 928 W. Michigan Ave. in Ypsilanti, according to Derrick Jackson, Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office spokesperson.
FLINT, MI  It was quiet during the five-minute drive from the University Park neighborhood home the four men met at to the private studio at the corner of Martin Luther King and Pasadena avenues.

The four men in the rental car  Demetrius McGlown, Marquaveonte Hemphill, Kiandre Cannon and their driver for the night  had already discussed their plan: to go to the north side Flint location so Cannon could kill 15-year-old Tayveon Crowder.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - A new business specializing in used books and records is opening on Grand Rapids East side in April.

Black Dog Books & Records opens on Saturday, April 20, at 959 Fulton St., just a few doors down from Vans Pastry Shoppe.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  West Michigan Republicans say the Friday slaying of Grand Rapids woman allegedly committed by a man living illegally in the U.S. demonstrates the federal governments failed immigration policies.

West Michigan is not going to accept the open southern border causing murders in our backyard, Pete Hoekstra, a former U.S. Congressman representing West Michigan and the current Michigan GOP Chair, wrote Wednesday, March 27, on social media.

President Trump deported this man and somehow he got back and committed murder. Unacceptable.

The outrage stems from the Friday, March 22, slaying of 25-year-old Ruby Garcia, who was shot to death and then dumped on the shoulder of U.S. 131 allegedly by the man she was dating: Brandon Ortiz-Vite, a 25-year-old citizen of Mexico living illegally in the U.S.

Ortiz-Vite was arraigned Tuesday on charges of felony murder, open murder, carjacking, carrying a concealed weapon and felony firearm related to Garcias killing. He is being held without bond.

Ortiz-Vite, who allegedly turned himself in and admitted to killing Garcia, had lived most of his life in Kent County but was not a U.S. citizen, a bond screener told a judge Tuesday.

In September 2020, Ortiz-Vite was deported to Mexico. But, at an unknown date and location, he re-entered the U.S. without inspection by an immigration official, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) spokesperson said in a statement.

Related: Man charged in womans killing was in U.S. illegally after being removed to Mexico

Former U.S. Rep. Peter Meijer, R-Grand Rapids, wrote Wednesday on social media that the federal government failed Garcia.

Ruby Garcia was shot and killed, her body dumped on the side of US-131, wrote Meijer, who is running this fall for an open U.S. Senate seat in Michigan. The man who confessed to her murder was deported in 2020, and came back into the US illegally.

U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, said in a statement that she grieves for Garcia and her family and is continuing to push for bipartisan immigration reform.

My heart breaks for Ruby Garcia and her family as they grapple with this unspeakable tragedy, Scholten said. The individual who committed this heinous crime should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Im continuing to push for bipartisan immigration reform that both secures our border and makes sure that individuals who come to our country are fully vetted to keep our communities safe.

U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, who represents the neighboring 4th Congressional District wrote Monday that the deadly costs of the Biden Administrations open border policies continue to impact West Michigan.

Huizenga called on the president to work with Congressional Republicans to implement the solutions found in their border security bill. Scholten voted against the bill last year, calling it extreme and saying it wouldnt address immigration issues.

President Biden can act right now using the same executive action to improve border security that he used to open the border, Huizenga wrote.

Last month, Republican U.S. senators sank a bipartisan bill that was intended to cut back on a record number of illegal border crossings. Scholten had supported the bill.

Immigration has become a top issue in the 2024 presidential election where President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are, once again, likely to face off.

Illegal crossings at the southern border with Mexico hit an all-time high in December before declining in the following months, according to the Associated Press. And criticism of the Biden administrations handling of the U.S-Mexico border was compounded earlier this year by tragedy.

In late February, 22-year-old University of Georgia student Laken Riley was out for a run when she was allegedly killed by a Venezuelan citizen in the U.S. illegally.

That man, 26-year-old Jose Antonio Ibarra, has been charged with Rileys death. ICE officials say Ibarra was detained in September 2022 after unlawfully crossing the southern border but had been released for further processing.

Rileys name has become a rallying cry for conservatives, who successfully provoked Biden to say her name during his State of the Union address in early March.

Garcias body was spotted late Friday on the west shoulder of southbound U.S. 131 at Leonard Street NW by a Kent County sheriffs lieutenant. State police said in a probable cause affidavit that Garcia had been shot in the head and appeared to have been run over by a vehicle.

Police said Ortiz-Vite and Garcia were dating and that text messages on her phone showed the pair met at her residence an hour before the killing.

Two days after the killing, police say Ortiz-Vite called Allegan County 911 to turn himself in.

Following his arrest, state police said Ortiz-Vite admitted to shooting Garcia multiple times in the head after they had an argument. He told police he walked behind the car, opened the drivers door and  believing her to still be alive  fired another shot into her head, police said.

He then unbuckled her from the car and pulled her out, police said.

Ortiz-Vite was wanted in 2020 for failing to appear at court hearings related to an arrest for operating while intoxicated and driving while license is suspended or revoked.

He was transferred from the Kent County Jail to ICE custody on Aug. 31, 2020, and an immigration judge soon after ordered that he be deported. On Sept. 29, 2020, he was deported to Mexico.

Scholten, whose congressional district covers Grand Rapids as well as portions of Kent, Muskegon and Ottawa counties, is up for re-election this year.

While the deadline to file to run for Michigans 3rd Congressional District hasnt yet passed, three Republicans so far have filed to compete in the August primary and then face Scholten for the seat in the November general election.

Republican congressional hopeful Michael Markey, Jr. put the blame on Biden and Scholten for Garcias killing.

Inaction by Joe Biden and Hillary Scholten have left another innocent American dead at the hands of an illegal immigrant, Markey wrote Monday on social media. Washington is failing the American people and its time to disrupt the status quo. Under Joe Biden, every state is a border state.

Another Republican congressional hopeful, Paul Hudson, wrote Tuesday on social media that Garcias death stems from the countys failed immigration policies.

The murder of Ruby Garcia, reportedly by an illegal immigrant with an arrest record, is a tragic reminder that the effects of a failed immigration system are felt throughout the country, including here in West Michigan, Hudson wrote.

Republican congressional hopeful Jason Ickes said the 3rd Congressional District mourns Garcias death, which he said wouldve been prevented with stronger immigration policies.

America is the land envied by the world, Ickes wrote Monday on social media. We must preserve it or our previous generations sacrifices will be for nothing. That means enforcing strict immigration policies that would have spared Rubys life.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, joined the Urban League of West Michigan leadership Wednesday during a press conference on the citys Southeast side.

Speaking on March 27 to community donors and local families at the Urban League, 745 Eastern Ave. SE, Scholten talked about her collaboration with the nonprofit to launch A League of Their Own Youth Center.
JACKSON COUNTY, MI  Those interested in trying a wide variety of Jackson cuisine will have a chance during an inaugural event hosted by Experience Jackson.

Jackson Countys official tourism bureau will host its first Jackson County Restaurant Week, which begins Monday, April 8 and runs through Friday, April 12. During the week, patrons are encouraged to try special menu items from 25 area food establishments.

The variety of restaurants participating highlights the current food scene, Experience Jackson Marketing & Development Manager Rachel Buchanan said. With three food trucks, two bakeries and a handful of brick-and-mortar restaurants, there are plenty of unique options to choose from.

Participating restaurants in Jackson County will provide a selection of $15 menu options throughout the week, with a variety of locations offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, officials said.

Many restaurants will offer special menus during the week, including Nite Lite, 145 W. Pearl St., which will feature pulled pork sliders, birria tacos and Hawaiian chicken skewers, according to the restaurants Facebook page.

Mamas Mercantile & Eatery, previously named Clear Lake Grill at 4450 Clear Lake Road, is also serving up a special menu, including a Macey Burger, which is served with prosciutto, Manchego cheese, arugula and spicy homemade pickles, according to its Facebook page.

Other participating restaurants in the event include:

308 Brass Rail , 308 W. Prospect St.;

Baby Bear Burger , 2400 Page Ave.;

Bella Notte Ristorante , 137 W. Michigan Ave.;

The Blue Julep , 143 W. Michigan Ave.;

Boohers Fresh Market & Diner , 3405 Brooklyn Road;

The Crazy Cowboy , 215 S. Mechanic St.;

The Dirty Bird , 140 W. Michigan Ave.;

Doll N Burgers , 323 S. Cooper St.;

Eagles Nest Bar & Grill , 1200 Eagle Point Road;

The Five Forks , 1194 N. West Ave.

Flavorz , 1033 Cooper St.;

Grand River Brewery , 117 W. Louis Glick Highway;

The Hunt Club , 1514 Daniel Road;

Luceros Mexican Bar & Grill , 6258 Jefferson Road;

Murphys Bistro , 145 W. Michigan Ave.;

Ogma Brewing Co., 129 E. Michigan Ave.;

RJs Metropolitan Ice Cream Co. , 135 E. Michigan Ave.;

Veritas , 151 W. Michigan Ave.; West Texas BBQ, 2190 Brooklyn Road.;

Andys Pizza, located at 1208 W. Ganson St. and 2115 E. Michigan Ave. in Jackson and 311 Fifth St. in Michigan Center.

Food trucks including Burnt Honey, FFF Truck and PB&Js BBQ also are participating.

Patrons can visit a participating restaurant, request the Jackson County Restaurant Week menu and ask for a punch card. Taking a punch card to each dining experience through the week qualifies guests for gift card drawings, officials said.

A Murphys Club is served at Murphys Bistro, 145 W. Michigan Ave. in downtown Jackson, on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023. J. Scott Park | jpark4@mlive.com

Hours and other menus will depend on each restaurant, officials said. Participants can turn in their punch cards at any of the participating restaurants with at least three stamps from their dining experiences. Each of the $15 restaurant week specials qualify for one punch.

More information can be found on Experience Jacksons website.

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BENTON HARBOR, MI -- A trooper shot the driver of a car after they drove into a police officer in a Southwest Michigan incident, the Michigan State Police reports.

The incident happened about 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 27, Michigan State Police Spl/Lt. DuWayne Robinson said.

A trooper and a Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety officer were on a traffic stop in the 1300 block of Monroe Street. Police said it was known the driver had a federal parole warrant for absconding.

Refusing to exit the vehicle, the driver abruptly backed up while turning the vehicles wheels. The vehicle hit the Benton Harbor officer, injuring their leg, police said.

To stop this immediate life-threatening action, the MSP member fired his weapon, hitting the suspect twice ... which stopped this deadly force action, Robinson said on social media.

The suspect and the Benton Harbor officer were taken to Corewell Hospital in St. Joseph for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect has since been arrested and lodged at the Berrien County Jail.

The Berrien County Jail in St. Joseph, Michigan, on Feb. 12, 2023.

The Benton Harbor officer remains hospitalized in stable condition.

The Michigan State Police is leading this investigation and the MSP Grand Rapids lab will process the scene.

The MSP trooper has been placed on administrative leave, per department policy and procedure, pending the outcome of the investigation.

Once the investigation and lab analysis results are completed, a report will be submitted to the Berrien County prosecutors office for review, police said. There are no threats to the public, according to MSP.

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RICHLAND, MI -- Frustrated with the limitations of upgrading the energy efficiency of her 1950s home, Kate Miller decided to tear down her house on Gull Lake and start from scratch.

Millers new home is now being recognized for its innovations.

The Kalamazoo County house won third place in West Michigans U.S. Green Building Council 2023 Innovative Project awards, which honors projects that break the mold of standard building construction, design and operations.

Miller began designing the Lakeside Net Zero Home in 2017, nine years after she purchased the property for $2.4 million and tore down the existing house. From her view on the northwest side of the lake, she can spot her childhood home on the opposite shore.

Growing up, Millers parents had an important rule: If youre in the house, you have to be reading.

I was a terrible reader, so I spent most of my time outside, Miller said. I grew up caring about the environment, just loving being able to be near the water.

Completed in 2022, Millers circular, 2,377-square-foot home requires very little energy to keep its occupants comfortable year-round. State-of-the-art windows and insulation keep energy demands low. The little energy needed is generated by 30 on-site solar panels.

Kate Miller's Gull Lake home was recognized by West Michigan's Green Building Council.Scott Shigley

Miller declined to share the cost of the project.

Though she lives just 13 miles northeast of Kalamazoo and about an hour from Grand Rapids, Miller struggled to find a Michigan-based architect who specialized in eco-friendly design.

She eventually connected with Chicago-based architect Mark Miller (no relation). He employs both science and philosophy in his sustainable designs.

Energy modeling software was used to determine the best window locations and sizes to capture heat from the sun and cool breezes off of the lake. Aesthetically, the layout invites a more spiritual, peaceful energy to move through the home, Mark Miller said.

Imagine opening the door in the summer, and theres a breeze coming in off the lake, he said. One of the things its attempting to do on an artistic and experiential level is to show the homeowner the flowing of energy coming into and out of her home.

Kate Miller's Gull Lake home was recognized by West Michigan's Green Building Council.Scott Shigley

The eye-catching shape did present some design challenges, Kate Miller said. Grand Rapids-based Abueva Builders worked with her to source local materials and reduce construction waste.

She swapped composite for concrete countertops to reduce waste and chose tile made from recycled material. The floors are made out of the oak and cherry trees cleared from her property.

Kate Miller's Gull Lake home was recognized by West Michigan's Green Building Council.Scott Shigley

Kate Miller gave away the doors, windows and appliances from the prior home to local nonprofits and others who would give them a second life.

In September 2023, the United Nations reported the buildings and construction sector accounts for 37% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

If were going to try and fix the problem for the health of the earth, and for the success of our later generations, we need to get the building sector off of contributing to the problem, Mark Miller said.

Energy-efficient tech and its installation can be expensive. The initial cost to build a home like Kates can be 10% to 15% more than the typical house, he said.

The savings comes in the operation of the home over the years, Mark Miller said. You are spending less on utilities. Those cost savings will pay for the upfront costs in (about) seven years, on average.

As the industry begins to shift toward sustainable practices, Kate said hopes her home will inspire more Southwest Michigan homeowners to invest in an eco-friendly lifestyle.

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GRAND RAPIDS, MI  A man believed to have spray-painted swastikas on the Chabad House in Kalamazoo last fall was charged in federal court Wednesday with damaging religious property.

Jiafeng Chen, 27, was charged Wednesday, March 27, by U.S. Attorney Mark Totten, of the Western District of Michigan, according to a news release from Tottens office.
SAGINAW, MI  A Saginaw man has died from being shot at an apartment complex, prompting his stepfather, a Texas minister and civil rights activist, to call on city leaders to close the complex.

Saginaws mayor says thats unlikely, while acknowledging the complex has a sordid history. The citys police chief added the site used to be worse, but efforts have been underway for years to curb the violence.

Jason L. Porterfield Jr., 19, died Saturday, March 23, when he was taken off life support at Ascension St. Marys Hospital, having been shot in the back of his head two days prior at Birch Park Apartments, 300 Birch Park Drive on Saginaws East Side.

Initial reports stated Porterfield was 16.

Portfield was the stepson of the Rev. Dominique Alexander, founder and CEO of the Dallas-based Next Generation Action Network, or NGAN. In a press release, Alexanders organization called for the immediate closure of the Birch Park Apartments.

We demand that the Mayor and City Council of Saginaw, Michigan, take decisive steps to address and terminate the cycle of violence that has deemed this location a murder capital, NGAN stated. It is imperative that our community and its leaders come together to ensure that no more lives are lost to such senseless acts.

Police respond to shooting at Birch Park Apartments the evening of March 21, 2024.Bob Johnson

Saginaw Police Chief Robert M. Ruth took issue with the NGAN dubbing the complex a murder capital.

Its been cleaned up quite a bit in the last few years, Ruth said. The people who own it have been very cooperative with police in helping cleans things up.

He added the site is currently undergoing renovations that will see the installation of surveillance cameras.

Mayor Brenda Moore said there are no plans to close the complex.

I dont think we have the jurisdiction to close an apartment complex down without going through a whole lot of red tape, she said. Im not saying we wont do it if we do have the need.

There were five nonfatal shootings at the apartment complex in 2023. The previous year saw only one shooting there but it proved fatal  that of 18-year-old Izaiah M. Danks, who was shot April 25 and died of his wounds on May 24.

Its not a safe place, its just not, Moore said. This wasnt the first shooting, and Im sure it wont be the last.

Moore and Ruth added that Alexander and NGAN are seeing the situation from the outside looking in.

There are a lot of families who live there and wed have to rehouse a lot of people, Moore said. I agree its not safe, but we got to down the guns.

With Section 8, housing units tend to garner more activity among residents and visitors, Ruth said.

Its very unfortunate, but sometimes things happen, he said. But these things happen everywhere, across the United States. Were trying to take care of security measures and doing everything to make things safe.

Moore added she is praying for Porterfields family.

Porterfields homicide is the fifth to occur in Saginaw this year. All resulted from gunfire.

Porterfield had spent several years living in Texas with Alexander and his mother, Lakeisha Smith. He moved back to Saginaw last year to live with his grandmother and finish high school.

He was a sweet, loving child, said Alexander, speaking to MLive. He was outgoing, loved his family, and was very passionate. He wouldnt have hurt a thing and didnt deserve this at all.

Smith declined comment, deferring to Alexander.

She wants justice for her baby, he said on her behalf.

Porterfields funeral is set for 11 a.m. on April 2 at Paradise Funeral Chapel, 3100 S. Washington Ave., with Alexander officiating. Visitation is to be held from 2-6 p.m. on April 1.

The Saginaw Major Case Unit is actively investigating Porterfields death.
COVERT, MI  Nuclear power is getting a boost in Michigan, where federal officials announced major funding to support the reopening of a 1970s era plant that closed two years ago.

The U.S. Department of Energy approved a $1.52 billion loan to Holtec International, a New Jersey company that is attempting to reopen the Palisades nuclear power plant on the Lake Michigan shoreline in Van Buren County, which shut down in May 2022.

The federal loan will pay for necessary upgrades, uranium refueling and other costs, the agency announced Wednesday, March 27. If successfully restarted, Palisades would become the first U.S. nuclear plant to come back online after decommissioning began.

Jennifer Granholm, U.S. Energy Secretary and former Michigan governor, made the announcement at Palisades on Wednesday morning alongside current Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

The pair toured a demonstration control room and were guided through a mock reactor shutdown before speaking to about 200 plant employees, local officials and other guests.

Granholm cast the funding and support for repowering Palisades as an effort to strengthen local economies during the national transition away from fossil fuels.

I know what this means to this community, Granholm said. I know it means jobs. I know it means livelihood. I know it means identity. I know it means dignity. And I must say, the president knows this too.

The former governor called the Palisades restart and increasing nuclear generation critical to meeting national climate goals.

Even as we deploy more solar and wind and batteries, were going to need more, not less nuclear power, in the decades to come, Granholm said. By our estimates, to reach our net zero goals by 2050, we need to at least triple our nuclear energy supply.

The federal funding comes on the heels of a new report from the Michigan Public Service Commission, which concluded on March 20 that, despite the expensive nature of the heavily regulated nuclear industry, more nuclear generation will be necessary for the state to meet its climate goals.

The state put $300 million toward the Palisades restart, contingent on the federal investment. The bipartisan support has grown among Democrats and some liberals because nuclear plants do not emit greenhouse gases, which are driving climate change.

Nuclear provides significant baseload energy in Michigan and was classified as a clean but not renewable source under a landmark 2023 state energy package. That legislation requires all state electricity to be from carbon-free sources by 2040.

Restarting Palisades is not an if, but when, said Whitmer.

Theres no question that bringing this plant online not only can be done, were going to show the world how to get it done, Whitmer told reporters. Its going to be able to provide a lot of clean energy for households all across Michigan and in out-of-state as well.

This is going to be a globally watched undertaking, and were gonna show people how to get it done and achieve our goals, she said.

Holtec, a nuclear design and fuel storage company, hopes to extend the life of Palisades through 2051 and return its 800 megawatts to the electrical grid. Long-term power purchase agreements are already in place with two rural electric cooperatives with customers in Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana.

The repowering plan must be approved by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which is considering multiple pending licensing requests for the project.

Extensive inspections and testing will be necessary before the plant could reopen. In the coming years, regulators are expected to require major refurbishment, rebuilding and replacement of existing equipment.

Company officials say they cant upgrade the South Haven area nuclear plant and return it to service without the federal bridge loan. Holtec must meet various technical, legal, environmental and financial conditions before the federal government funds the loan.

Kelly Trice, president of nuclear engineering and decomissioning at Holtec, said the plant will be a safe, clean reliable energy source once a couple little details are worked out.

The Biden administration moved the Earth to help us finance this deal, Trice said.

Local business and government officials said the restart would be a welcomed economic boost. One said area residents are largely supportive of the plan to repower the nuclear plant.

The effort would bring about 600 jobs back to the area.

Covert Township Supervisor Daywi Cook said the plant wasnt historically a contentious topic across the community during its decades of operation, but some protest began after Holtec announced the restart plans.

Most of them were from out of town; some of them were from in town. Most of them were just generally anti-nuclear, some of them were pro-clean energy but didnt want it in our backyard. So, it was a mixed bag. But generally speaking, I think its highly supported by the community, Cook said.

Opponents do remain.

A handful of protestors stood outside the plant entrance Wednesday. Holtec security removed at least two from the press conference. One held a sign accusing the plant of causing cancer among neighbors.

Among those who object to the repowering is radioactive waste specialist Kevin Kamps with the advocacy group Beyond Nuclear, who likened the repowering to a game of Russian roulette.

Its an existentially bad idea for Michigan and for the Great Lakes, which is 21% of the entire planets surface freshwater supply, Kamps said.

Environmental justice advocates and some who live near the Palisades plant have expressed worries about restarting the five-decades-old plant, largely because of embrittlement problems which can lead to damage in the reactor vessel. It happens to all nuclear reactors, but the issue is considered especially critical in reactors built before 1972, such as Palisades.

In addition to the repowering, Holtec intends to build a pair of 300-megawatt small, modular nuclear reactor units at the Palisades site in Covert Township.

Nuclear fission generates no carbon dioxide, the primary greenhouse gas that causes global warming  although fossil fuels are used in mining and refining uranium ore for reactors.

Radioactive waste can remain dangerous for centuries and must be stored in protective casks where the fuel was used until a national repository is developed by the federal government.

Related articles:

Bills would expand Michigan nuclear generation

$1.5 billion federal loan on tap for Palisades restart

Two more small reactors to be added to Palisades

Granholm hopeful about loans to restart Palisades
BRT Apartments Corp. (NYSE:BRT  Get Free Report) major shareholder Investors L. P. Gould bought 15,475 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, March 25th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $16.23 per share, with a total value of $251,159.25. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 3,547,873 shares in the company, valued at approximately $57,581,978.79. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Major shareholders that own more than 10% of a companys shares are required to disclose their transactions with the SEC.

BRT Apartments Trading Up 3.8 %

Shares of BRT Apartments stock traded up $0.60 on Wednesday, hitting $16.42. 34,056 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 39,301. The company has a market capitalization of $304.99 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 88.12 and a beta of 1.14. The company has a fifty day moving average of $16.45 and a two-hundred day moving average of $17.35. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.01, a current ratio of 1.10 and a quick ratio of 1.10. BRT Apartments Corp. has a one year low of $15.21 and a one year high of $20.69.

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BRT Apartments Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, April 4th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 27th will be given a dividend of $0.25 per share. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.09%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, March 26th. BRT Apartmentss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 555.59%.

Institutional Trading of BRT Apartments

Analyst Ratings Changes

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Metropolitan Life Insurance Co NY grew its holdings in BRT Apartments by 83.9% in the first quarter. Metropolitan Life Insurance Co NY now owns 1,392 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $33,000 after purchasing an additional 635 shares during the period. Orion Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of BRT Apartments during the 3rd quarter worth about $35,000. Barclays PLC grew its stake in shares of BRT Apartments by 166.9% in the 4th quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 3,230 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $64,000 after buying an additional 2,020 shares during the period. Citigroup Inc. increased its position in BRT Apartments by 13,260.7% in the 2nd quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 3,741 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $74,000 after buying an additional 3,713 shares in the last quarter. Finally, State of Alaska Department of Revenue increased its position in BRT Apartments by 18.6% in the 3rd quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 5,555 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $95,000 after buying an additional 871 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 29.07% of the companys stock.

Separately, JMP Securities decreased their price objective on shares of BRT Apartments from $28.00 to $24.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, March 14th.

View Our Latest Report on BRT

About BRT Apartments

(Get Free Report)

BRT is a real estate investment trust that owns, operates and, to a lesser extent, holds interests in joint ventures that own multi-family properties. As of September 30, 2023, BRT owns or has interests in 28 multi-family properties with 7,707 units in 11 states.

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Deepwater Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (NYSE:TSM  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm purchased 12,175 shares of the semiconductor companys stock, valued at approximately $1,266,000. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing makes up 0.5% of Deepwater Asset Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 24th largest position.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of TSM. Baystate Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 1,333.3% in the 2nd quarter. Baystate Wealth Management LLC now owns 258 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 240 shares during the last quarter. Carolinas Wealth Consulting LLC lifted its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 334.8% in the 2nd quarter. Carolinas Wealth Consulting LLC now owns 287 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 221 shares during the last quarter. PCA Investment Advisory Services Inc. bought a new stake in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in the 2nd quarter valued at about $29,000. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV lifted its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 108.7% in the 4th quarter. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV now owns 311 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $32,000 after purchasing an additional 162 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. lifted its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 208.9% in the 3rd quarter. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. now owns 312 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 211 shares during the last quarter. 16.51% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages recently weighed in on TSM. Susquehanna lifted their price objective on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $130.00 to $160.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 13th. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Friday, December 8th. TD Cowen boosted their price target on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $85.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Friday, January 12th. Needham & Company LLC boosted their price target on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $115.00 to $133.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, January 19th. Finally, Barclays boosted their price target on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $110.00 to $125.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, January 19th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $128.25.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Price Performance

Shares of NYSE TSM traded down $1.45 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $138.78. The companys stock had a trading volume of 10,770,303 shares, compared to its average volume of 15,818,899. The company has a current ratio of 2.40, a quick ratio of 2.13 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.26. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $127.68 and a 200 day moving average price of $106.43. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited has a one year low of $81.21 and a one year high of $158.40. The company has a market cap of $719.77 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.79, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.07 and a beta of 1.15.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE:TSM  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, January 18th. The semiconductor company reported $1.44 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.37 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $19.62 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $18.99 billion. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a net margin of 38.80% and a return on equity of 25.24%. On average, equities research analysts expect that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited will post 6.19 EPS for the current year.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Cuts Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, July 11th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 13th will be given a $0.4408 dividend. This represents a $1.76 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.27%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 13th. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 33.78%.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Profile

(Free Report)

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides complementary metal oxide silicon wafer fabrication processes to manufacture logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, and embedded memory semiconductors.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TSM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (NYSE:TSM  Free Report).

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Om Mehra is the Technical Analyst at SAMCO Securities. He has 5 years of experience as a technical analyst and derivatives analyst. He has completed MBA (Finance), and PG Diploma from Indian Laws Institute (New Delhi)
Jinit Parmar is a correspondent based out of Mumbai covering the banking sector, fintechs, NBFCs, insurance and more, tweets @jinitparmar10
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Witnessing robust growth in volumes of its construction and mining trucks and tractor trailers last year, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) on Tuesday showcased its MY24 BharatBenz heavy-duty trucks, which will be launched in April 2024. The new heavy-duty range of trucks would be powered by an updated 6.7 litre common-rail BSVI Stage 2 engine. Read more
Chinese premier holds talks with Sri Lankan PM

Xinhua) 08:23, March 27, 2024

Chinese Premier Li Qiang holds talks with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang held talks with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on Tuesday in Beijing.

Li said China and Sri Lanka are strategic partners of cooperation characterized by sincere mutual assistance and enduring friendship spanning generations. The two countries have always respected each other and enjoyed equality and reciprocal cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic relations 67 years ago, he added.

China is ready to work with Sri Lanka to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during their talks last year, carry forward the tradition of friendship, consolidate political mutual trust, and expand bilateral cooperation in various fields to promote common development, Li noted.

China supports Sri Lanka's efforts to realize national unity and stability as well as independent economic development, Li said, adding that China is willing to push forward the implementation of major projects under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, agriculture and marine research.

He called on the two sides to explore cooperation potential in clean energy and telecommunication while strengthening exchanges and cooperation in culture, tourism and education.

China encourages more companies to invest in Sri Lanka and is willing to increase imports of Sri Lankan quality products, Li said, expressing the hope that Sri Lanka could provide a good business environment for Chinese companies.

Gunawardena thanked China for providing long-term support to Sri Lanka's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and helping the country realize economic and social development and cope with the COVID-19 pandemic and financial crisis.

Hailing the Belt and Road Initiative and global initiatives proposed by China, he said that Sri Lanka has always adhered to the one-China principle and will continue to firmly pursue policies to strengthen friendly cooperation with China.

Sri Lanka will work with China to solidly advance the Belt and Road cooperation, deepen cooperation in various fields, and further cultural exchanges and engagement between the two peoples, to promote the common development of the two countries and regional peace and stability, Gunawardena said.

Li and Gunawardena witnessed the signing of a batch of deals in areas such as trade, investment, customs and development cooperation after their talks at the Great Hall of the People.

At the invitation of the Chinese premier, Gunawardena is on an official visit to China from March 25 to 30.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang holds a welcome ceremony for Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, March 26, 2024. Li held talks with Gunawardena, who is on an official visit to China, in Beijing on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
With China as a key growth engine, Asia will play a crucial role in bolstering the world's economic growth this year, given the Chinese government's strong policy support, a key report published on Tuesday stated. While facing pressures from a gloomy global outlook and mounting uncertainties, China's economic growth will likely hit a relatively high level this year, sending a positive signal to the rest of Asia and the globe, the flagship report from the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 said. Themed "Asia and the World: Common Challenges, Shared Responsibilities", the four-day event kicked off on Tuesday in Boao, a coastal town in South China's Hainan province. Asia stands as a cornerstone for global economic growth in the post-COVID-19 era, playing an important role in advancing equitable and orderly multipolarity and inclusive economic globalization, said Li Baodong, secretary-general of the Boao Forum for Asia. "Asia will continue to remain the largest contributor to global economic growth (this year)," he told a news conference on Tuesday in Boao. "The Chinese economy enjoys strong resilience and great potential, becoming a major pillar of sustainable global development in the post-pandemic era." According to the report, the weighted real GDP growth rate of Asia in 2024 is expected to be 4.5 percent, given the emerging macro policy effectiveness of China and major economies to boost demand and economic growth. Dora Liu, deputy CEO and chief quality and transformation officer of market consultancy Deloitte China, said, "Asian economies have their unique advantages and prowess in key technologies and have a broad prospect in such applications." Liu said that in many Asian markets, technologies related to new energy, like photovoltaics, wind power and energy storage, are accelerating iterations, thanks to policies, capital and applications. In clean power, for instance, more than half of the global investment in the sector came from Asia last year, Liu said. "Asian countries, as a whole, are expected to bring safer, more economical and more efficient energy solutions to the world." The report highlighted China's key role in supporting both Asia and the world's economic growth. It said the country's GDP growth this year will likely reach 5 percent, the target for the year. "On the one hand, the factors that constrain China's economic growth will change in 2024  On the other hand, the factors supporting China's economic growth will continue in 2024, including relaxed fiscal and monetary policies," the Boao report said. The Chinese government, it said, has rolled out a series of policies to support real estate development, which will help restore consumer confidence under the investment and wealth effects of upstream and downstream industries. On the export front, the report estimated that China will maintain its status as the world's largest automobile exporter, a tag it gained for the first time last year. Zafar Uddin Mahmood, policy advisor to the BFA's secretary-general and president of the Understanding China Forum, expressed strong optimism about China's economic prospects this year. He said he believes China's economy will expand by over 5 percent this year, remaining a key driver of the world's economic growth. "It's a very positive sign for the whole world's economy. I'm sure it'll play a very important role in further developing the global economy." Dismissing speculation that China has reached its peak in terms of GDP, he said that for a huge economy like China, maintaining a growth rate of around 5 percent would be remarkable. Looking ahead, he said there remains huge room for China's high-quality development in the future, marked by years of sustainable growth.


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Bloomberg Editors are members of the Bloomberg Opinion editorial board. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
Preeti Kulkarni is a financial journalist with over 13 years of experience. Based in Mumbai, she covers the personal finance beat for Moneycontrol. She focusses primarily on insurance, banking, taxation and financial planning
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On 21st March, media headlines said that M Damodaran, former chairman of the Securities & Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and founder-chairman of Excellence Enablers, an organisation that champions corporate governance, had been hit with damages of Rs206 crore by the International Court of Arbitration (ICA) of the USA in connection with a breach of contract issue. The order from an international 'court' shocked corporate India.

ICA has ordered damages totalling US$110.2mn (million) (about Rs918.75 crore), against the directors and two shareholders of Glocal in proportion to their shareholding. (Read: US$110.2mn International Arbitration Award against Glocal Healthcare & Ex-SEBI Chief M Damodaran; Glocal Calls it Perverse and Ex-parte ). The sum arrived at is, apparently, based on the hypothetical loss suffered by UpHealth.

While this may seem straightforward, the reality is more akin to peeling layers of an onion. In fact, it serves as a case study for first-generation Indian entrepreneurs seeking a global presence.

The Deal

On 30 October 2020, UpHealth Holdings Inc (UpHealth), of the US (formerly known as Gig Capital2), and Glocal Healthcare Systems Pvt Ltd (Glocal) of India and its shareholders, signed a share purchase agreement (SPA) under which UpHealth was to invest about Rs1,482 crore to acquire a 90 % stake in the Indian company through a complex structure.

UpHealth alleges that the Indian directors failed to give up control, despite being paid full consideration. Glocal, on the other hand, claims that it cancelled the SPA with UpHealth after discovering it had been deceived and defrauded into parting with shares under various pretexts. It has, since, filed first information reports (FIRs) against UpHealth and its directors and is working on a counter-suit.

So who is Glocal and why was UpHealth so eager to acquire it?

Glocal Healthcare

Glocal is a social enterprise started in 2010 by a doctor, Dr Sahabat Azim, previously a Tripura cadre officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). It was started as a mission, following his father's death due to unnecessary surgery in an expensive hospital. The aim was to make healthcare affordable to rural and remote areas of India using technology and artificial intelligence (AI) for diagnosis for the design of infrastructure to reach more people. Starting with a small hospital in West Bengal, it now operates 11 hospitals and 500 digital dispensaries and a telemedicine platform in the economically backward north-eastern states.

In 2019, Glocal broke even financially and the COVID-19 pandemic emphasised the importance of telemedicine, prompting a potential global scale-up with investment from UpHealth Inc (formerly Gig Capital). Glocal believed that UpHealth's intricate financial manoeuvres would provide funding for expansion without sacrificing operational control.

Without going into details of why Glocal transferred shares on the basis of promises (this will be looked at by a court), the fact is that UpHealth shares were listed in the US market on 9 June 2021 at a combined value of US$1.35bn (billion), but the price collapsed dramatically and halved within a month of listing, its shares sinking to less than a dollar from the listed value of 10$ within a year. The Indian shareholders refused to accept these dud shares (although they were induced to sign documents to enable listing) or to seek approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for the transaction.

Other investments that were promised by UpHealth, allegedly, did not materialise, but it now claimed 94% ownership of Glocal, having paid only 16.56% of the total transaction value in cash -- the rest is in the form of now dud shares. In 2021, Dr Azim was even persuaded to move to Dubai which was to be the headquarters of the global operation as CEO of Uphealths international operations. This was, allegedly, a ploy to make him step down from Glocal.

In 2022, tensions escalated when Uphealth appointed a top consulting firm, which systematically and deliberately undervalued Glocals hospital properties and dispensaries at agricultural land prices. Glocal refused to sign the report and filed an FIR against UpHealth Inc, Uphealth Holdings Inc and its key people for data theft and misuse of funds. Meanwhile, UpHealth began to pressure management to replace two directors by appointing its own people. It also invoked international arbitration, despite opposition by Glocal by obtaining court approval. Glocals contention is that serious fraud is not a matter of arbitration.

UpHealth Inc

UpHealth Inc, a US-based global digital health firm, has a wholly-owned subsidiary, UpHealth Holdings, which engaged in dealings with Glocal. To summarise the complex financial transactions, UpHealth pledged to bring in US$459mn to expand operations. Initially a direct investment, talks shifted towards an acquisition, with Glocal receiving shares in UpHealth. The SPA was signed based on UpHealth having US$174mn in trust funds and a US$210mn letter of intent from GEM Capital. Subsequently, they represented that they had raised another US$285mn . In 2021, Dr Azim was set to become the chief executive officer (CEO) of the international operations and had even moved to Dubai.

The complex financial dealings in this battle may eventually be decided by the Supreme Court of India. However, a Google search throws up several interesting facts about Uphealth. In September 2023, UpHealth has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings in a Delaware court ( https://www.bizjournals.com/southflorida/news/2023/09/21/uphealth-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy.html ). This happened after a New York Court ordered it to pay US$31.34mn to Needham & Company, LLC, in a breach of contract. https://www.nycourts.gov/ reporter//pdfs/2023/2023_33210.pdf

This isnt the first time UpHealth has been accused of shady dealings. Other founders have made similar allegations, claiming to have been misled, strung along and pushed into disadvantageous, value-destructive deals ( In lawsuit, medication adherence startup claims it was strung along as part of planned SPAC acquisition ). Several special purpose vehicles (SPVs) with names such as GiGCapital1, GigCapital3, GigCapital4 and GigCapital5, that were set up by UpHealth resulted in disputes, serious allegations of wrongdoing or bankruptcy filings.

Conversely, UpHealth alleges Glocal breached contractual obligations by not relinquishing control.. (Read Here: https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2024/03/20/2849812/0/en/The-International-Court-of-Arbitration-awarded-UpHealth-Holdings-more-than-110-Million-in-Damages-in-Breach-of-Contract-Lawsuit-Involving-the-2020-Purchase-by-UpHealth-of-Glocal-He.html

As litigation continues in India, UpHealth opted to invoke international arbitration through ICA, raising a crucial question: Is ICA a court?

The Arbitration

Although referred to as a court, ICA is not a judicial body; it is part of the International Chamber of Commerce, a private entity. It has issued an ex-parte order, meaning a legal battle in India would be necessary for enforcement.

Interestingly, ICA discovered no significant negative findings against Glocals directors, except their failure to participate in arbitration proceedings. The order made headlines due to its substantial figures and Mr Damodaran's involvement. Like Dr Azim, Mr Damodaran was a Tripura cadre IAS officer and holds a 1% stake in Glocal. The allegation against him is that he failed to exercise his influence in pushing a resolution to appoint three UpHealth directors on the board and that he voted against the resolution.

While the cases wind their way through court, if Glocal stumbles, it will be a chilling lesson for Indian entrepreneurship. In a nation where 28% of the population lacks access to doctors and hospitals are scarce, Dr Azim's work in states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal is invaluable.

Few entrepreneurs possess Dr Azim's administrative background and reach. Doctors are often reluctant to work in rural India or consider implementing technology in digitally-enabled clinics that combine examination rooms, test labs and pharmacies with remote doctor support. Dr Azim's efforts were recognised by the World Economic Forum at Davos in 2021, but if he fails, it is the disempowered people of these states who lose.

While Glocal prepares for the battle, it is vital that police and judicial systems deliver timely justice so that first-generation entrepreneurs can persist. Countless entrepreneurs have lost such battles and seen their local visions crumble in pursuit of global aspirations.
India has hit the elimination target for Kala-azar, a parasitic disease in 2024, but a drug used to treat the skin manifestation of Kala-azar is being linked to eye problems, including blindness.

Miltefosine is given to patients with Post-Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL), which is a skin manifestation of Kala-azar. Kala-azar itself is a neglected tropical disease, which is fatal if not treated. PKDL, which affects about 5-10% of treated Kala-azar patients, is seemingly innocuous, but people with PKDL are known to have the parasite in their body and can therefore unknowingly spread the disease in the community. The manifestation starts by looking like white patches on the skin (macules), and then develops into bumps on the skin (papules) and later large boils (nodules).

In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) first took cognisance of the problem. After further investigation and examining the data from India, the WHO's multi-technical group considered that a causal relationship between adverse ocular events and exposure to miltefosine is at least a reasonable possibility. The group found a causal relationship between the problem in the eye and the intake of miltefosine in 83 cases in India.

In 2022, the Indian government issued guidelines for its field staff to help prevent these eye complications. The only alternate therapy, as per the official guidelines for PKDL, is infusion of liposomal amphotericin B over four months. This requires hospitalisation, and is not a tested therapy.

The results of a multi-centre trial led by Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) from India and Bangladesh with a combination of liposomal amphotericin B and miltefosine is likely to be published soon . It is a three-week treatment course.

"This therapy can be an alternative. I cannot tell you the results as they are yet to be published. But the results were acceptable, said Shyam Sunder, retired professor of general medicine from Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, and founder of the Kala Azar Medical Research Centre in Muzaffarpur, one of the sites of the trial.

History of the problem

The first two recorded cases of eye problems after PKDL treatment were in 2018 in the medical journal Cornea . The cases were from 2015-16, and at the time it was hypothesised that the corneal manifestation was an immune reaction, said Aditya Pradhan, ophthalmologist from Disha Eye Hospitals, Barrackpore, Kolkata and lead author of the paper.

A second paper was published the same year in Bangladesh, and it presented five patients who developed eye complications after taking miltefosine for PKDL. One of the five patients was detected too late and had to undergo evisceration of the eye--that is, gouging out the eye.

In October 2019, WHO officer Suman Saurabh collaborated with an ophthalmologist based in Darbhanga, Manish Mahabir, and published a paper on the subject. This study was a case series of four patients with PKDL from across three districts of Bihar who developed severe eye complications during treatment. One of these had gone completely blind, and had undergone corneal transplantation. This study used the WHO Uppsala Monitoring Centre causality assessment scale , where they classified the relation of their eye complication with miltefosine as 'certain'the highest assessment criteria as per the scale.

Saurabh, who now teaches Community Medicine in All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, said that as a WHO officer, he was in constant touch with the authorities and had communicated these findings with them. The paper talked about the need to counsel patients regarding these possible adverse ocular events during the miltefosine treatment.

In 2020, a major study was published by the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS), Patna. The lead author of this paper, Rakhi Kusumesh, assistant professor at Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, met the first patient with a similar eye problem in September 2018. He was a 31-year-old man who had pain in his eye, inflammation and photophobia (difficulty looking directly at bright light).

I had not even heard of miltefosine at the time," said Kusumesh, who is also a corneal implant surgeon. "When the first patient came to me, I thought the eye was infected. I started with antibiotics, and sent a sample for testing for microorganisms. But nothing came out. Finally I started on a corticosteroid that suppresses the immune system and then the patient started responding.

Despite that, the patient lost his right eye and had to undergo keratoplasty, which is a corneal implant. His left eye recovered with steroids, and he gained partial vision. Kusumesh said that they got seven patients between 2018-19 with the same finding. For five of these patients, Kusumesh and her colleagues used a causality assessment of adverse drug reaction to miltefosine as per the WHO-Uppsala Monitoring Centre. The assessment revealed a probable association between the adverse drug reaction and miltefosine in all patients.

Miltefosine was first described as an anticancer drug, and has a very long half-life, which is the time it takes for the amount of drugs in the body to reduce to half. In the case of miltefosine, it is nearly 31 days.

It starts with redness around the cornea," said Kusumesh. "Its exact mechanism is still not known but it can cause reaction to the outer part of the cornea causing desiccation necrolysis, which is the melting of the cornea. You will find a lot of sterile pus cells in the outer part of the cornea.

While two of her patients needed a corneal implant, the others recovered with corticosteroids. One of the most effective treatments was just stopping the use of miltefosine. If the patient seeks care at an early stage, the outcomes are better than if the patient comes in an advanced stage.

What does early stage mean? A slight redness in the eye, slight foreign body sensation, before the deeper part of the cornea is involved and the cornea turns completely white, explained Kusumesh.

The prognosis changes in a matter of one to two weeks, she said. For instance, in the first two cases, they came to Kusumesh about a couple weeks after their symptoms started. Such delay is expected of villagers, often on daily wage work, living far from major hospitals like IGIMS, in Patna.

Kala-azar Kala-azar literally means black fever, as the disease results in some greyish-blackish discolouration of skin. The scientific name is Visceral Leishmaniasis. It is caused by a parasite, Leishmania donovani, and is transmitted to humans by the bite of female sand fliescalled balumakhi. People with this disease have bouts of fever, suffer weight loss, become anaemic and have enlarged spleen and liver, giving them a pot belly. This disease is fatal if not treated. Kala-azar is a neglected tropical diseasebecause it affects the poorest of poor, the most marginalised people and ignored by the pharma industry. It is prevalent in most parts of Bihar, some parts of Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal and other parts of the Indian subcontinent such as Nepal and Bangladesh.

My cornea turned white

Iliyas Marandis name crops up many times during this reporting.

Marandi was about 20 years old when he was detected with PKDL. The tribal man lives in a small village, Karudi in Godda district. Marandi is a matriculate who aspired to study further. But he was working as a farm labourer, migrating to West Bengal often to supplement the income of his family. IndiaSpend spoke to him on a phone call, and later on a video call from Delhi. Marandi was about 20 years old when he was detected with PKDL. The tribal man lives in a small village, Karudi in Godda district. Marandi is a matriculate who aspired to study further. But he was working as a farm labourer, migrating to West Bengal often to supplement the income of his family. IndiaSpend spoke to him on a phone call, and later on a video call from Delhi.

Marandi got Kala-azar as a child. He had some lesions on the skin after the treatment, but was detected with PKDL only around October 2020. He took miltefosine for around two months, when his eye started hurting.

Both my eyes hurt, mostly at night. But it would reduce again in the morning. I asked my mother to get some drops, but my eyes were not feeling better, said Marandi.

When he went to a health centre in his block where he was getting PKDL treatment, the doctors gave him the dose for the third month. When I told them about the pain in the eye, they ignored it. They instead told me to continue miltefosine. Un logon ne galat kiya (What they did was wrong), said Marandi.

At the time, health workers in remote districts such as Godda were possibly not aware about this side effect, nor was any information available to them. Marandi said that despite the pain, he took miltefosine for another six to seven days, before stopping it completely. For the eye pain, he went to an eye specialist in Godda district who gave him some medicines, and asked him to wear dark glasses.

The Godda eye doctor told me to go to a big centre (tertiary care hospital or specialised eye hospital). We were arranging money to go there. But before I could go to the hospital, my cornea turned white. All this happened in a span of 2-3 days, said Marandi.

Marandi feels wronged by the health officials who did not tell him about this side effect.

They should have told me that there could be a side effect like this," he said. "They never told me. If they had stopped the medicine when I was in pain, I would perhaps have not turned blind.

Scrambling for treatment

Marandi said that he somehow collected money and went to Deogarh (a temple town in Jharkhand) to see an eye specialist. It only reduced his pain, but he still couldn't see.

After he lost his eyesight, his case came to the attention of the district public health circles. In 2021, the health authorities provided an ambulance for him to go to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Eye Hospital in Hazaribagh district and Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi, but these hospitals could not offer treatments that helped recover his eyesight.

Letter sent by Goddas chief medical officer to help Iliyas Marandi go to Patna for treatment in February 2022. Photo Credit: Menaka Rao

On December 24, 2021, a WHO team and others went on a tour in Jharkhand to examine the Kala-azar situation, and met Marandi. Madhukar (Major), who is a clinician working in Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, a premium research institute on Kala-azar, met Marandi. "I spoke to the health officials there and said we can get him treated at Patnas IGIMS (where Kusumesh works). I had sent three people there for a corneal implant, said Madhukar.

A year later, in February 2022, Godda's chief medical officer sent Marandi in an ambulance to IGIMS. He however could not get a transplant there soon, as corneas were hard to come by.

Iliyas Marandis medical record on being examined at IGIMS, Patna. Photo Credit: Menaka Rao

Though Marandi got some help from authorities, he also spent money out of pocket for medical expenses.

Kusumesh talks about how the seven patients who came to her with this problem were completely on their own. The patient gets keratitis (inflammation of cornea) after taking miltefosine," Kusumesh said. "Whose responsibility is it? It is strange that nobody is helping these patients. Patients were coming to me at their own expense. Corneal transplant and other treatment costs money. They were coming from endemic areas such as Gopalganj, Chhapra, and coming frequently--even weekly sometimes.

Issuing advisories

On December 22, 2021, personnel from the National Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme which works on Kala-azar had a meeting where they decided to form a multidisciplinary group of experts including an ophthalmologist, epidemiologist clinicians, people from WHO and CARE India (now Piramal Swasthya), a non profit that partners with the government on Kala-azar elimination.

The state programme officers shared guidelines with block-level vector-borne disease control officers in early 2022, around the time Marandi was taken to Patna. The guideline was that there needs to be a mandatory eye check for each PKDL patient prescribed miltefosine and a follow up after one month, said Rakesh Kumar, Bihar health ministry in-charge of Kala-azar.

Government officials have not sent IndiaSpend these guidelines even after many requests, and they are not on the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme website. IndiaSpend reached out to Tanu Jain, director of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Rajiv Manjhi. Though an interview was promised, repeated follow ups over two months have yielded no results. We will update this story when we receive a response.

Corneal transplant

After hearing complaints of patients such as Marandi, Care India--the non profit that works with the government in the Kala-azar programme--decided to conduct a field trip in March 2022. Asim Sil, an ophthalmologist and public health specialist from West Bengal, was roped in for this exercise.

Sil and the Care team examined 44 patients from Jharkhand and Bihar who had eye problems after taking Miltefosine. Of the patients we examined, we found that both eyes were affected in 16 patients, and one eye in 27 patients. Half the patients that we examined had a serious kind of disability. It was either a significant loss of vision either in one eye or both eyes, said Sil.

Is this permanent? Yes, it's permanent if not reversed by keratoplasty.

Sil conducted four keratoplasties in all among PKDL patients, where Care India took care of the patients treatment. Marandi got his implant in August 2022.

But the success of keratoplasty cannot be guaranteed. The success rate is as low as 40%. Marandis vision had improved after keratoplasty, but started deteriorating after six months. He could not arrange for an immediate follow-up, which damaged his optic nerve permanently, said Sil.

Sil said that unless follow up is frequent during the one-and-a-half years following surgery, vision can lapse. We need to look after a lot of parameters to save the sight. And sometimes it happens that we need to escalate the dose of the drug, and sometimes taper the dose, said Sil. Besides, people who work as labourers are prone to infection because of exposure to dust.

Lack of ophthalmologists

On February 10, 2022, the WHO issued a statement on the potential ocular disorders in PKDL patients treated with miltefosine. They later formed a committee which included experts from various disciplines in medicine including ophthalmologists, clinicians, public health experts, pharmacologists among others including Sil.

In March 2023, the WHO issued an advisory to minimise the risk of ocular adverse events with miltefosine for both doctors and patients (see box below). The multi-technical group considered that a causal relationship between ocular adverse events and exposure to the miltefosine is, as we said, at least a reasonable possibility.

The guidelines mandate clinicians to send PKDL patients to ophthalmologists to then fill out a form before prescribing miltefosine. But not every district in the Kala-azar endemic areas has an ophthalmologist.

Actually, if you want to rule out something which is in a very early stage (of eye complication), you need a slit lamp examination which a doctor with an MBBS is not trained for, said Kusumesh.

The WHO advisory says, Since miltefosine has a very long half-life, it is possible that ocular changes will not heal without treatment even after the discontinuation of miltefosine. Therefore, an eye specialist should be consulted in such cases to avoid possible permanent damage.

In Pakur district of Jharkhand for instance, there is no ophthalmologist in the public sector. The health officials said that they make do with a general physician for pre-prescription check up. In case there is a problem in the eye, they had an arrangement with a private ophthalmologist to do check-ups.

In Bihar, the government said that optometrists can be used in case there are no ophthalmologists. Optometrists are primary eye healthcare providers, and can examine the eyes and help diagnosis or management of disease in the eye. While the guideline is not hard and fast about eye examination done by an ophthalmologist before miltefosine, it is clear that in case of any adverse eye event, the patient should be examined by an eye doctor.

WHO guidelines Information for healthcare professionals Before starting the miltefosine treatment, doctor should conduct an eye examination and take the detailed history of eye disorders In case of current or past history of ocular disorder, the benefits and the risks of treating a patient with miltefosine should be carefully considered, and advice from an ophthalmologist should be sought where feasible. All patients should be informed before starting the treatment that in case of eye problems during the treatment (e.g. red eyes, increased watering, eye pain, blurred vision) they should discontinue miltefosine and contact their healthcare professional immediately. If an adverse eye event happens, patients should be immediately referred to a doctor and treatment by miltefosine should be stopped. It is possible that ocular changes will not be reversible without treatment even after discontinuation of miltefosine. Therefore, an eye specialist should be consulted in such cases to avoid the possibility of permanent damage. Suspected adverse events should be reported to local health authorities and the national pharmacovigilance programme without delay.

Source: World Health Organization advisory , March 2023

Building local capacity

One official connected to the NVDCP who did not want to be named said that the problem magically disappeared after these guidelines came into force.

The government should arrange for the training of ophthalmologists in endemic areas about this specific side effect connected to miltefosine. That is the ethical thing to do, said Prabir Kumar Chatterjee, public health clinician who has worked in the tribal areas of Jharkhand which has a high incidence of Kala-azar. He now practices in West Bengal.

As recently as August 2023, this correspondent is aware of a case in Dumka district where the patient started losing his vision after miltefosine. The health worker there contacted Sil and made a video call, where Sil saw that his eyes were substantially inflamed.

Sil spoke to the treating ophthalmologist about the ocular manifestation of miltefosine, and how it can be effectively treated using a steroid. But the ophthalmologist treated him for a fungal infection, which did not work. The patient was finally convinced to go to Sil, who treated him after which the patients vision improved.

It is the training of the doctors so that they feel confident to treat this patient with topical steroids. Actually, we ophthalmologists always hesitate to give steroids, said Sil. He said such patients can be taken to district hospitals which are linked with tertiary level centres such as IGIMS.

We have to develop local capacity," said Sil. "What we are doing from the outside is an ad hoc measure or say firefighting. PKDL is going to be there. Unless we develop a better alternative, they will be treated with miltefosine.

Compensation for patients?

More than 9,000 patients were detected and presumably treated for PKDL between 2014 and 2024, as per the records of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme website accessed on March 26. Bihar governments Rakesh Kumar said that there is no record of ocular side effects related to miltefosine before 2020.

"We have no list of patients who had any such complication before 2020, said Kumar.

Two papers documenting this side effect were released from Bihar itself, one in 2019 and one in 2020 from IGIMS, a government medical college. Many of these patients went to ophthalmologists on their own, spending their own money and resources.

The vision of all the patients who had eye complications was restored. Nobody lost their eye in Bihar, said Kumar, who was confident that no patient who had an eye problem could ever be hidden from public authorities. There is no plan from our end for the patients who took miltefosine before 2020," he said. "We have linked our programme with the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment formally.

The good thing is that we are able to tackle the fresh cases. But for the old cases, the government should show their responsibility. said Sil.

G.V.S. Murthy is the Professor of Public Health Eye Care and Disability at the International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK. Having worked with government programmes in the past, he said that there is a need to have a rapid survey of areas where Kala-azar is endemic. The survey can be done using ASHA workers. There is a need to find out who are the people who have lost their sight and the number of such persons affected, said Murthy.

Chatterjee, the public health clinician from West Bengal, said that the patients who took treatment and suffered any kind of eye problem should be compensated for the adverse effect by the government.

Meanwhile, Marandi is stuck at home. His mother, who is single, goes to work and tries to run the household. The health officers linked Marandi with a disability pension scheme which gets him Rs 1,000 a month. He has plans to seek help from non-profits that help develop skills for blind people.

What can I get for Rs 1,000? I had plans to study, but right now everything seems very difficult, said Marandi.

Reporting for this story was supported by the MSF-DNDi Grant on Neglected Tropical Diseases as part of the Without Borders Media Fellowship. The fellowship encourages independent, impartial and neutral reporting on health and humanitarian crises.

(Indiaspend.org is a data-driven, public-interest journalism non-profit organisation)
Market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has barred Jayesh Shantilal Raval (noticee), proprietor of Ways2Star for two years for providing unregistered investment advisory services. While imposing a fine of Rs6 lakh, SEBI also asked Mr Raval to refund Rs48.81 lakh collected as fees from clients, investors or complainants.

In the order, G Ramar, chief general manager (CGM) of SEBI, says, "I note that Mr Raval's activities show that he was acting as an investment adviser without holding the certificate of registration as an investment adviser. Therefore, he knowingly misrepresented himself as a SEBI-registered entity to investors and clients and collected money from them. Such misleading representations are deceptive and fraudulent in nature and hence in violation of Regulations 3 (a), (b), (c) & (d) and 4(1), 4 (2)(k) and 4 (2)(s) of the Prohibition of Fraudulent and Unfair Trade Practices relating to Securities Market (PFUTP) Regulations. Further, Mr Raval continuously received investment advisory fees in his bank account since the date of opening of such bank accounts, in violation of Regulation 3(1) of the IA Regulations and Section 12(1) of the SEBI Act. Consequently, I find that he is liable to be imposed with penalty under both Sections 15EB and 15HA of the SEBI Act."

According to the SEBI investigation, Mr Raval operated an investment advisory business through the website ways2star.co.in and via WhatsApp chat, collecting funds for advisory services. He also deceptively used SEBI registration number INA000012306, which belonged to Gaurav Baldev, a SEBI-registered advier.

SEBI received a complaint on the SCORES platform against Mr Raval. During its investigation, the market regulator found that Mr Raval was providing services such as cash intraday, cash delivery, cash BTST, stock cash combo, future intraday, option intraday, future BTST, stock (FNO) and index future & option (F&O).

Further, SEBI observed that the total amount credited to Mr Raval's bank account from the account opening until the account closing was Rs48.81 lakh. Since this account was linked to his website for collecting money related to illegal investment advisory activities. Despite multiple requests, Mr Raval failed to disclose the amount collected. All credit entries in the account during this period are considered funds received for his illegal activities.

The market regulator also mentioned that Mr Raval had not made any submissions to prove that these funds were earned from other sources of income. "Hence, I find that these services were being offered by the noticee for consideration. Therefore, I find that Mr Raval was engaged in the business of providing investment advice to his clients for consideration and thus acted as an investment adviser," Mr Ramar, the CGM says.

Mr Raval is also restrained from selling assets, properties, and mutual funds, shares, and securities held by them in demat and physical form except for the sole purpose of making the refunds.

"Mr Raval shall not undertake, either during or after the expiry of the period of restraint and prohibition, either directly or indirectly, investment advisory services or any activity in the securities market without obtaining a certificate of registration from SEBI as required under the securities laws," the market regulator says.
On Wednesday, 1524 stocks advanced, 2314 declined and 111 remained unchanged, on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) with an advance decline ratio of 0.66, 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, 44 securities advanced and closed at a new 52-week high whereas 96 securities sank to close at their new 52-week lows. In sectoral indices, Nifty PSU bank, Nifty IT and Nifty Media among the biggest losers. Nifty Infrastructure, Nifty Energy and Nifty Auto among the biggest gainers.

IPCA Laboratories (-1.11%) entered into a Technology Transfer Agreement with Omexa Formulary for a biosimilar clone, process development and knowledge transfer for the global market. Under this agreement, IPCA will grant to Omexa a non-exclusive right to research, develop, manufacture and market a anti-cancer biosimilar for global market

HCL Technologies (-0.85%) was selected by Oriola Corporation, a leading health and wellbeing company operating in the Nordic region, to accelerate Oriolas digital transformation journey and deliver enhanced customer experiences.

Shakti Pumps (India) (+1.48%) received a patent for inventing methods & apparatus for soft starting and stopping a motor.

Tata Steel (+0.20%) raised Rs2,700 crore through allotment of 2,70,000 - 7.79% fixed rate, unsecured, redeemable, rated, listed, non-convertible debentures (NCDs) having face value Rs1,00,000 each, for cash, for a tenor of 3 years, to identified investors on private placement basis.

DroneAcharya Aerial Innovations (-2.84%) has secured prestigious work order from one of the Artilleries of the Eastern Command of the Indian Army. The contract entails the supply of cutting-edge FPV (first person view) drones equipped with night vision capabilities, marking a significant advancement in its collaboration with the Indian Army.

AstraZeneca Pharma India (+3.91%) has received permission to import for sale and distribution of Trastuzumab deruxtecan lyophilized powder for concentrate for solution for infusion 100mg (Enhertu) from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, Directorate General of Health Services, Government of India.

Wipros wholly-owned subsidiary -- Wipro Holdings (UK) has transferred its entire shareholding in Wipro Gulf LLC (step-down subsidiary) to Wipro IT Services UK Societas (wholly-owned subsidiary).

Larsen & Toubros (L&T) (+0.99%) construction arm -- L&T construction has secured multiple orders in the domestic and international markets for its buildings & factories business.

NTPC (+0.21%) inked a pact with a Japanese agency for sourcing foreign currency loans of $200 million (JPY 30 billion or around Rs 1,650 crore). Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), a government policy-based financial institution, will provide 60 per cent of the facility amount and the balance amount will be provided by other commercial banks under JBIC guarantee.

Adani Power (-1.04%) has received approval from Fair trade regulator Competition Commission of India (CCI) for acquisition of Lanco Amarkantak Power.

Tech Mahindra (-0.04%) has planned to merge its two wholly-owned subsidiaries, Born Group and Tech Mahindra (Americas), to synergise business operations, optimise operational cost, and reduce compliance risks.

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:
Representatives from the Department of Public Health and Social Services and Harvest House testify on the recruitment of foster parents on Monday, March 25, 2024, at the Guam Congress Building in Hagatna.
The District Court of Guam is seen on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, in Hagatna.
The Pay-Less Supermarkets Micronesia Mall location is seen on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023, in Dededo.
Illinois Supreme Court to hear actor Jussie Smollett appeal of conviction for staging racist attack View Photo

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP)  The Illinois Supreme Court will hear an appeal of actor Jussie Smolletts disorderly conduct conviction for staging a racist and homophobic attack against himself in 2019, then lying to Chicago police about it.

The court on Wednesday accepted the appeal from Smollett, formerly a cast member of the television drama Empire. It will review a December state appellate court ruling that upheld his 2021 conviction by a Cook County jury.

The case kicked up an international uproar and produced an intensive manhunt by Chicago police detectives.

There is no date set for the high court to hear arguments in the matter.

A special prosecutor refiled charges against Smollett after Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx dropped the case and Smollett forfeited his $10,000 bond and conducted community service, which Smollett argues ended the case.

In a 2-1 decision, the states First District Appellate Court dismissed those claims, declaring that no one promised Smollett he wouldnt face a fresh prosecution after accepting the original deal. Justice Freddrenna Lyle dissented, calling the refiled charges fundamentally unfair.

His attorneys have argued that Smollett, who is Black and gay, has been victimized by a racist and politicized justice system.

Smollett was found guilty of five counts of disorderly conduct for setting up the attack in which he claimed two men assaulted him on a Chicago street. He claimed they spouted slurs and an oath about being in MAGA country  an apparent reference to former President Donald Trumps rallying credo  before tossing a noose around his neck.

Testimony at his trial indicated Smollett paid $3,500 to two men whom he knew from Empire, which was filmed in Chicago, to carry out the attack. But Smollett took the stand and told the jury, There was no hoax.

He was sentenced to 150 days in jail  six of which he served before he was freed pending appeal  30 months of probation and ordered to pay $130,160 in restitution.

___

Check out the Associated Press complete coverage of the Jussie Smollett case.

By JOHN OCONNOR

AP Political Reporter
Kenya starts to hand over to relatives the bodies of 429 members of a doomsday cult

Kenya starts to hand over to relatives the bodies of 429 members of a doomsday cult View Photo

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP)  Kenyas government on Tuesday began handing over to relatives the bodies of 429 members of a doomsday cult at the center of a legal case that has shocked the country.

Exhumed bodies from a vast rural area in coastal Kenya have shown signs of starvation and strangulation. Cult leader Paul Mackenzie is accused of asking his followers to starve themselves to death to meet Jesus and now faces charges that include murder.

Authorities are using DNA testing to help identify bodies and their families. On Tuesday, the first bodies were handed over to relatives. Emotions ran high at the Malindi mortuary as families collected loved ones for reburial. Some wailed, overwhelmed.

Francis Wanje, a father who lost his daughter and seven other family members, pointed at a hearse carrying four bodies.

We lost eight members of our family, Wanje said. We were supposed to get five, but were told that one of the children did not match the DNA.

So now we have been given only four (bodies). So we are still hoping that perhaps in the future, we are going to get the other four.

Mackenzie and dozens of his associates were charged in February with the torture and murder of 191 children. The trial begins on April 23. Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki has declared Mackenzies Good News International Ministries a criminal organized group.

Mackenzie is serving a separate one-year prison sentence after being found guilty of operating a film studio and producing films without a valid license.

Some outraged Kenyans have asked how authorities didnt notice any sign of the mass deaths much earlier.

The Kenya Human Rights Commission last week said police failed to act on reports that could have prevented the deaths in the remote Shakahola area. Several reports had been filed at police stations by people whose relatives had entered the forested area.

By EVELYNE MUSAMBI

Associated Press
Pakistani authorities share with China initial findings of probe into bombing that killed 5 Chinese

Pakistani authorities share with China initial findings of probe into bombing that killed 5 Chinese View Photo

PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP)  Pakistani authorities have shared with China the preliminary findings of an investigation into a deadly attack that killed five Chinese nationals and their Pakistani driver in the countrys volatile northwest, officials said Wednesday.

Authorities were doing DNA testing on the remains of a suicide bomber who rammed his explosives-laden car into a vehicle that was carrying the Chinese engineers and construction workers.

The attack took place in Shangla, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province where thousands of Chinese nationals work on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which includes a multitude of megaprojects such as road construction, power plants and agriculture. The CPEC is a lifeline for Pakistans cash-strapped government, currently facing one of its worst economic crises.

The five Chinese nationals were heading Tuesday to the Dasu Dam, the biggest hydropower project in Pakistan, where they worked. Their remains were transported to the capital, Islamabad, local police official Altaf Khan said, adding that the deceased had a police escort when the attack happened.

Khan said DNA testing was necessary as the bombers face was beyond recognition. He hoped the results of the DNA tests will help in identifying the bomber.

Pakistani officials said they shared the latest investigation developments with their Chinese counterparts. China is expected to send its own experts Wednesday to the attack site to conduct an independent investigation while collaborating with Pakistani authorities.

Khan also said they have further expanded a search started a day earlier for the attackers possible accomplices.

The U.N. Security Council in a statement Wednesday condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack. The council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice.

No group had claimed responsibility for the attack as of Wednesday, but suspicion was likely to fall on separatists and the breakaway Gul Bahadur faction of the Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP, and is a separate group, but a close ally of the Afghan Taliban.

The TTP denied being behind the suicide bombing in a statement Wednesday, saying: We are in no way related to the attack on the Chinese engineers.

Tuesdays attack came less than a week after Pakistani security forces killed eight Baluchistan Liberation Army separatists who opened fire on a convoy carrying Chinese citizens outside the Chinese-funded Gwadar port in the volatile southwestern Baluchistan province.

The Chinese foreign ministry condemned the attack and offered deep condolences to the deceased in a statement Wednesday.

The ministry said China has asked Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the incident as soon as possible, hunt down the perpetrators, and bring them to justice and added that any attempt to undermine China-Pakistan cooperation will never succeed.

Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif promised a swift conclusion to the investigation during a visit with the Chinese ambassador, Jiang Zaidong, on Tuesday.

Zaidong, accompanied by Pakistani officials, visited the Dasu dam Wednesday, according to a statement by Pakistans government.

The statement also said Sharif presided over a high-level security meeting, attended by the countrys powerful army chief Gen. Asim Munir. In the meeting, the premier said Tuesdays attack was creating mistrust between Pakistan and China and vowed to bring the barbaric perpetrators to justice.

The army chief seconded Sharifs promise and said they would ensure the safety of all foreigners in the country, especially Chinese nationals, contributing to the prosperity of Pakistan.

Chinese laborers working on CPEC-related projects in Pakistan have come under attack in recent years.

In July 2021, at least 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals, were killed when a suicide bomber detonated the explosives in his vehicle near a bus carrying several Chinese and Pakistani engineers and laborers, prompting the Chinese companies to suspend work at the time. Pakistani authorities initially insisted it was a road accident, but China disputed the claim, saying victims were the target of a suicide attack.

___

Associated Press writers Munir Ahmed in Islamabad and Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed to this report.

By RIAZ KHAN

Associated Press
In Vienna, 2 portraits of Alexei Navalny are painted near a monument to Soviet soldiers

In Vienna, 2 portraits of Alexei Navalny are painted near a monument to Soviet soldiers View Photo

VIENNA (AP)  Two large portraits of the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny have been spray-painted on a property owned by the family of a former Czech foreign minister behind a monument to Soviet soldiers in Vienna.

The portraits were completed Wednesday on the wall behind the monument, which was already painted in Ukraines blue and yellow national colors after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The wall belongs to the Palais Schwarzenberg, owned by the noble family of former Czech Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg, who died in November.

The monument portraying a Soviet soldier was built after Soviet troops took Vienna in 1945. Austria, which was annexed by Nazi Germany in 1938, was divided into occupation zones until the country was granted full sovereignty in 1955.

The monument commemorates victims of dictatorship and Mr. Navalny is an obvious victim of dictatorship, Maximillian Schaffgotsch of the Schwarzenberg family foundation told the Austria Press Agency.

Navalny, who crusaded against official corruption in Russia and staged massive anti-Kremlin protests as President Vladimir Putins fiercest foe, died Feb. 16 in the Arctic penal colony where he was serving a 19-year sentence. Officials have said only that he died of natural causes.

Austrian graffiti duo Joel Gamnou painted the portraits. Jonathan Gamperl, one half of the duo, said that so far we have only gotten positive feedback.

KSORS, a group described by Austrian media as being close to the Russian Embassy, complained in a Facebook post that the wall behind the monument to Soviet soldiers is being misused for political purposes.

An improvised memorial to Navalny opposite the embassy has been removed twice in the last two weeks. Vienna prosecutors are considering whether to open an investigation into those incidents, APA reported.
Book of kids drawings reflect regular violence shaping their lives in a Rio de Janeiro favela View Photo

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  Dozens of kids and teenagers from Rio de Janeiros Mare neighborhood gathered for the launch of a book in which they show, with their own words and pictures, how violence in their poor, bayside community weighs on their young lives.

The book, titled I Was Supposed to be at School, features drawings and testimonies collected from youngsters aged between 5 and 17.

All too often, when Rio states military police conduct operations and face off with local drug traffickers, class is canceled and they take shelter behind washing machines, under their beds or far from windows that a stray bullet might shatter. Mare is one of Rios most populous favelas, with about 130,000 residents.

Some policemen invade our houses. They turn things upside down, they attack, they even steal our food, according to one childs account in the book, which launched Monday.

Sometimes police fire at children, too, another account says, going on to reference 14-year-old Marcus Vinicius da Silva, whose death in 2018 sparked outrage and protests. Residents say police shot him in the back as he left home for class, but the case remains unsolved and sealed by Rio police.

The books phrases came directly from the youngsters and collected in partnership with nonprofit Redes da Mare, according to creator Isabel Malzoni. The book doesnt list the names of the children involved.

We and the nonprofit in Mare agreed with the families that the anonymity of the children was critical for the project so the children and their parents felt safe about it. It was a condition for the project to exist, she said later.

The projects trigger was a surge of police raids in 2019, the year Jair Bolsonaro became Brazils president and ally Wilson Witzel became Rios governor, after both campaigned with pledges to give police carte-blanche to use lethal force against criminals. During that year, Mare saw 41 police operations resulting in 42 deaths and 35 days without school for local children, according to Redes da Mare and Rio de Janeiro state public defenders office.

Those figures edged down in 2023, the first year in office for current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Gov. Claudio Castro: 27 police operations, 39 deaths and 15 days without school.

Rio state police didnt respond to a request from The Associated Press about the book. The force has repeatedly said in the past that any operations in Mare and other favelas are aimed at stopping criminal activity. But the list of deaths from stray bullets continues to grow.

The book also contains some hope for better days.

I also think of EVERYTHING that could be different, one child is quoted as saying, next to a drawing of a calm day at Mare, with an apple tree, clouds and a rainbow. Tomorrow, if it is a day of peace, I am going to school.

___

Savarese reported from Sao Paulo.

By MAURICIO SAVARESE and DIARLEI RODRIGUES

Associated Press
Ben at PAWS ARK 2000 sanctuary View Photo

San Andreas, CA  This past weekend, many celebrated the magnificence of bears.

This past Saturday (3/23) was World Bear Day, and the Performing Animal Welfare Society, or PAWS, in San Andreas, wanted to shine a light on these magnificent animals while also raising awareness against their exploitation.

In the U.S., about 1,000 bears are found in circuses, traveling acts, and dismal roadside attractions. Some exhibitors charge people to hold and take photos with baby bears who have been forcibly separated from their distraught mothers, stated sanctuary officials, adding, Bears acquired as pets face a lifetime of misery in backyard cages.

Bears are known for their high intelligence, strength, and ability to occupy 50 square miles or more as home ranges. Their days are spent in constant motion as they search for food, explore their surroundings, and rear their young, according to sanctuary officials.

Extra attention was given on Saturday to, Ben and Mack, the two bears living at the sanctuary on their honorary day. Ben, pictured in the image box, had been confined to a small, barren cage at a roadside zoo until he was rescued.

With no chance to engage in natural bear behaviors, he spent his days pacing back and forth in distress, shared sanctuary officials. Now, his days are spent in spacious surroundings, digging into logs for tasty grubs and termites.

Mack (pictured here), a wild bear orphaned at a young age, began begging for food from people, forcing state officials to capture him.

Despite missing part of his right rear leg from birth, this energetic bear excels at climbing, reveal PAWS officials. He also loves to splash in his pool and forage for nutritious foods left for him by his caregivers.

PAWS invites people to view the Take the Pledge for Bears page for information on captive bears and learn how to help not only on World Bear Day but beyond. There is also a petition to end cub-petting operations that profit from exploiting baby bears that can be signed. Click here for details.
Claudio Puccio -- TCSO booking photo View Photo

Columbia, CA  It was a scary situation for a couple camping in the Columbia area as they were robbed at gunpoint, and the suspect allegedly committed other crimes three days before and is being held on $200,000 bail.

It was around 2:30 a.m. when Tuolumne County Sheriffs dispatch was recently alerted to the incident in the area of Camp Nine Road near Parrots Ferry Road after getting a call from the woman and her boyfriend. They reported that the man had also threatened to shoot them. The victims told deputies upon their arrival that their car alarm woke them. Then they saw a man, later identified as 56-year-old Claudio Puccio, whose last address was in Virginia, screaming at them to leave their tent and walk to him. The victims also stated that, while pointing the handgun at them, he threatened to blow their heads off. Puccio then demanded one of the victims give him money and told them they needed to leave. Several hours later, he was found sitting nearby in his car, and deputies retrieved a handgun near the passenger side of the vehicle. Puccio faces charges of felony robbery, assault with a firearm and criminal threats.

Sheriffs officials also disclosed that three days earlier, in the same area, Puccio was arrested for burglary and vandalism, stemming from an alleged night break-in at a cabin where he cut a lock. The neighbor also reported prior incidents of trespassing by him. Also, an outside security camera caught Puccio on the property with a blanket from inside the cabin. They added that Puccio had called 9-1-1 that night to report an issue with a neighbor regarding a gold claim and had admitted to cutting the lock, entering the cabin, and taking the blanket. Puccio told the deputy he believed he had a right to the property because he believed it was public land, relayed sheriffs officials.
Sierra Conservation Center View Photo

The California Department of Corrections requires prison guards to be clean-shaven, and the policy has spurred a lawsuit from the federal government.

The CDCR states that the policy is in place for certain employees who have to wear tight-fitting respirators because beards can interfere with the use of the masks.

The US Justice Department, however, argues that the policy is a form of religious discrimination for groups like Sikhs and Muslims who wear facial hair as a religious expression.

The federal government has filed a civil rights complaint that requests a temporary court order while the CDCR assesses options for providing religious accommodations.

U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert for the Eastern District of California says in a statement, Our district is one of the most diverse in the country, with communities of many different faiths practicing customs that are central to their beliefs. The action brought today is an important use of the federal civil rights laws to protect this religious expression.

CDCR has responded that it believes the state agency is in compliance with all laws, that it respects those with different religious beliefs, and strives to accommodate people seeking reasonable accommodations.
Pennsylvania county joins other local governments in suing oil industry over climate change View Photo

A large suburban Philadelphia county has joined dozens of other local governments around the country in suing the oil industry, asserting that major oil producers systematically deceived the public about their role in accelerating global warming.

Bucks Countys lawsuit against a half dozen oil companies blames the oil industry for more frequent and intense storms  including one last summer that killed seven people there  flooding, saltwater intrusion, extreme heat and other devastating climate change impacts from the burning of fossil fuels. The county wants oil producers to pay to mitigate the damage caused by climate change.

These companies have known since at least the 1950s that their ways of doing business were having calamitous effects on our planet, and rather than change what they were doing or raise the alarm, they lied to all of us, Bucks County Commissioner Gene DiGirolamo said in a statement. The taxpayers should not have to foot the bill for these companies and their greed.

Dozens of municipal governments in California, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, South Carolina and Puerto Rico as well as eight states and Washington, D.C., have filed suit in recent years against oil and gas companies over their role in climate change, according to the Center for Climate Integrity.

Bucks County, which borders Philadelphia and has a population of about 650,000, is the first local government in Pennsylvania to sue, the climate group said. The countys 31 municipalities will spend $955 million through 2040 to address climate change impacts, the group forecast last year.

Residents and businesses should not have to bear the costs of climate change alone, the county argued in its suit, filed Monday in county court. It cited several extreme weather events in Bucks County, including a severe storm in July that dumped seven inches of rain in 45 minutes and caused a deadly flash flood.

The suit named as defendants BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil, Philips 66, Shell and the American Petroleum Institute, an industry group.

Chevron said through its attorney, Theodore J. Boutrous Jr., that addressing climate change requires a coordinated international policy response, not meritless local litigation over lawful and essential energy production.

API said in response that the industry provides affordable, reliable energy energy to U.S. consumers while taking steps over the past two decades to reduce emissions. It said climate change policy is the responsibility of Congress, not local governments and courts.

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, Ryan Meyers, the groups senior vice president and general counsel, said in a statement.

In 2021, the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed a lawsuit by New York City against five oil companies to recoup damages caused by global warming.

By MICHAEL RUBINKAM

Associated Press
New Mexico regulators worry about US plans to ship radioactive waste back from Texas View Photo

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  Federal officials gathered Tuesday in southern New Mexico to mark the 25th anniversary of the nations only underground repository for radioactive waste resulting from decades of nuclear research and bomb making.

Carved out of an ancient salt formation about half a mile (800 meters) deep, the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant outside Carlsbad has taken in around 13,850 shipments from more than a dozen national laboratories and other sites since 1999.

The anniversary comes as New Mexico raises concerns about the federal governments plans for repackaging and shipping to WIPP a collection of drums filled with the same kind of materials that prompted a radiation release at the repository in 2014.

That mishap contaminated parts of the underground facility and forced an expensive, nearly three-year closure. It also delayed the federal governments multibillion-dollar cleanup program and prompted policy changes at labs and other sites across the U.S.

Meanwhile, dozens of boxes containing drums of nuclear waste that were packed at the Los Alamos National Laboratory to be stored at WIPP were rerouted to Texas, where theyve remained ever since at an above-ground holding site.

After years of pressure from Texas environmental regulators, the U.S. Department of Energy announced last year that it would begin looking at ways to treat the waste so it could be safely transported and disposed of at WIPP.

But the New Mexico Environment Department is demanding more safety information, raising numerous concerns in letters to federal officials and the contractor that operates the New Mexico repository.

Parking it in the desert of West Texas for 10 years and shipping it back does not constitute treatment, New Mexico Environment Secretary James Kenney told The Associated Press in an interview. So thats my most substantive issue  that time does not treat hazardous waste. Treatment treats hazardous waste.

The 2014 radiation release was caused by improper packaging of waste at Los Alamos. Investigators determined that a runaway chemical reaction inside one drum resulted from the mixing of nitrate salts with organic kitty litter that was meant to keep the interior of the drum dry.

Kenney said there was an understanding following the breach that drums containing the same materials had the potential to react. He questioned how that risk could have changed since the character and composition of the waste remains the same.

Scientists at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque were contracted by the DOE to study the issue. They published a report in November stating that the federal governments plan to repackage the waste with an insulating layer of air-filled glass micro-bubbles would offer additional thermal protection.

The study also noted that ongoing monitoring suggests that the temperature of the drums is decreasing, indicating that the waste is becoming more stable.

DOE officials did not immediately answer questions about whether other methods were considered for changing the composition of the waste, or what guarantees the agency might offer for ensuring another thermal reaction doesnt happen inside one of the drums.

The timetable for moving the waste also wasnt immediately clear, as the plan would need approval from state and federal regulators.

Kenney said some of the states concerns could have been addressed had the federal government consulted with New Mexico regulators before announcing its plans. The state in its letters pointed to requirements under the repositorys permit and federal laws for handling radioactive and hazardous wastes.

Don Hancock, with the Albuquerque-based watchdog group Southwest Research and Information Center, said shipments of the untreated waste also might not comply with the Nuclear Regulatory Commissions certification for the containers that are used.

This is a classic case of waste arriving somewhere and then being stranded  10 years in the case of this waste, Hancock said. Thats a lesson for Texas, New Mexico, and any other state to be sure that waste is safe to ship before its allowed to be shipped.

By SUSAN MONTOYA BRYAN

Associated Press
Named for Star-Spangled Banner author, Francis Scott Key Bridge was part of Baltimores identity View Photo

The bridge that collapsed into a Maryland river after a ship strike Tuesday was iconic  erected almost five decades ago, named after the author of The Star-Spangled Banner, and part of the very fabric of Baltimore.

Built near the spot where Francis Scott Key witnessed the bombardment of a fort that inspired what would become Americas national anthem, the namesake bridge collapsed into the Patapsco River after being struck by a cargo ship that reported losing power just before the crash. Rescue crews were looking for the bodies of six people who remained unaccounted for Tuesday afternoon and were presumed dead.

The words the Key Bridge is gone, its still sinking in, said Maryland Gov. Wes Moore. For 47 years, thats all weve known. Its not just unprecedented; its heartbreaking.

Moore said the bridge was a normal commuting route for 30,000 Marylanders every day. It had 185 feet (56 meters) of clearance above the water and was a key cog in the regions transportation infrastructure.

David Belew, a vice president of the Maryland Center for History and Culture, said the Francis Scott Key Bridge was visible from Baltimores downtown office towers and became inextricably linked with our sense of place, a part of commuters daily routines and an artery for commerce.

Our harbor, port and many families are fundamentally changed, he said.

Designed as an outer crossing of the Baltimore Harbor, the 1.6-mile (2.6-kilometer) bridge opened on March 23, 1977, as the final link in Interstate 695, known locally as the Baltimore Beltway.

Jennifer Harris, 75, has spent her whole life in the area and remembers when the bridge was constructed. She said she was jolted awake by a booming sound in the middle of the night and was devastated when she learned what had had happened.

We watched them build that bridge. We always lived here  you could always see it, she said. For it to come down in seconds is just horrific.

The bridge was built within 100 yards (91 meters) of where Key witnessed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry on Sept. 12, 1814, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority.

Key stood on the deck of an American ship in the Patapsco and watched Britains 25-hour assault on the fort. The raising of the American flag afterward inspired him to write the poem The Defense of Fort MHenry, according to the National Parks Service. Set to music, it became the national anthem in 1931.

In the early 1960s, the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (Interstate 895) had reached its traffic capacity, and motorists encountered heavy congestion and delays almost daily during rush hours, the transit agency wrote on its website. Plans were formulated for a second tunnel, but construction bids came in substantially higher than expected, and focus shifted to construction of a bridge.

The benefits of the plan were numerous: additional traffic capacity, lower maintenance costs, and the ability to handle vehicles carrying hazardous materials, which are prohibited in the tunnel.

Construction began in 1972, and the four-lane span opened five years later. The arched steel bridge most recently handled about 11.3 million vehicles a year.

From the city of Baltimores perspective, it was instrumental in providing an alternative to the tunnel for traffic, said Reuben Hull, a civil engineering historian.

With a main span of 1,200 feet (366 meters), it was the second-longest continuous truss bridge in the world when it opened, and it remained the second longest in the United States and third in the world, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers. It had a total length of 8,636 feet (2,632 meters).

Its condition before the collapse was rated as fair, according to the Federal Highway Administrations 2023 National Bridge Inventory released last June. Inspectors rated its deck, substructure and superstructure  the component that absorbs the live traffic load  as satisfactory.

It is not to be confused with a similarly named six-lane bridge bringing U.S. Route 29 traffic across the Potomac River between Rosslyn, Virginia, and the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

Anita Kassof, executive director of the Baltimore Museum of Industry, said the choice of Key as the bridges namesake honors the citys toughness and perseverance in the face of tragedy.

The Star-Spangled Banner is an anthem to American resiliency, and Baltimore is a very resilient city, she said. Weve been through a lot and weve gotten through a lot, and well get through this, too.

___

Follow Wayne Parry on X, formerly Twitter, at www.twitter.com/WayneParryAC

By WAYNE PARRY

Associated Press
Indictment accuses Rwandan man of lying about role in his countrys 1994 genocide to come to US

BOSTON (AP)  A Rwandan man who authorities say killed people with a machete and raped women in the countrys 1994 genocide before immigrating to the U.S. was indicted Tuesday by a federal grand jury in Boston.

Eric Nshimiye, of Ohio, is accused of repeatedly lying about his involvement in the genocide in order to come to the United States as a refugee in 1995 and then gain citizenship eight years later.

He was indicted on charges that include falsifying information, obstruction of justice and perjury. He was accused of striking men, women and children on the head with a nail-studded club and then hacking them to death with a machete, according to court documents.

The obstruction and perjury charges stem from his testimony in the 2019 trial of his one-time medical school classmate, who was convicted of hiding his involvement in at least seven killings and five rapes during the genocide, which left at least 800,000 people dead in the African country.

For nearly 30 years, Mr. Nshimiye allegedly hid the truth about crimes he committed during the Rwandan genocide in order to seek refuge in the United States, and reap the benefits of U.S. citizenship, Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua Levy of Massachusetts said in a statement.

In addition to lying about his involvement in murders and rapes, Nshimiye also lied about his former classmates involvement in the genocide, authorities said.

Nshimiye was being held in custody in Ohio following an initial court appearance last week and pending a detention hearing scheduled for Sunday. He is due to appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.

A public defender in Ohio said he couldnt offer any comment as he was no longer handling the case and that his understanding was that a public defender in Boston had not yet been assigned.

Nshimiye was a medical student at the University of Rwanda campus in Butare in the early 1990s. Authorities accuse him of killing Tutsi men, women and children. His victims included a 14-year-old boy and a man who sewed doctors coats at the university hospital, authorities said.

Witnesses in Rwanda have identified the locations of the killings and drawn pictures of Nshimiyes weapons, authorities said. Nshimiye also participated in the rapes of numerous Tutsi women during the genocide, authorities said.

Nshimiye fled Tutsi rebels and made his way to Kenya where, in 1995, he lied to U.S. immigration officials to gain refugee status in the United States, authorities said. Nshimiye has lived and worked in Ohio since 1995, according to officials.
Trump ally Jeffrey Clark disciplinary hearing begins over role trying to overturn 2020 election View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  Former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clarks efforts to help then-President Donald Trump overturn the 2020 election were characterized Tuesday as a coup attempt by Washington, D.C., Office of Disciplinary Counsel at a hearing to determine if Clark should be sanctioned.

Clark is accused of attempting to engage in dishonest conduct during his role in aftermath of the last presidential election.

Much of the hearing before the three-member Board of Responsibility focused on a letter which Clark sent to his superiors at the time, Jeffrey Rosen and Richard Donoghue. Clark suggested the letter be sent to Georgia indicating that the Justice Department was investigating irregularities in the states election and state lawmakers should void Bidens electoral win.

Hamilton Fox III, the disciplinary counsel at the hearing, said the letter and Clarks continued attempts to intercede on Trumps behalf, including multiple meetings with Trump in violation Justice Department procedure, were essentially a coup attempt at the Department of Justice.

Clarks attorney, Harry MacDougald, said the action being taken against his client was unprecedented. He said the letter was not supposed to have been public and should have fallen under various privilege protections. He added that the letter was part of the debate that normally occurs between lawyers. He said punishing Clark in those circumstances would have a chilling effect, a point that Donoghue agreed with during the cross examination portion of his testimony when he said it could discourage people from being as candid as they otherwise might be.

Much of the hearing played like a rerun of the fraud claims from the 2020 election and the House Jan. 6 committee testimony, including a rehash of the dramatic Jan. 3, 2021 meeting when several attorneys within the White House and Justice Department threatened to quit if Trump fired Rosen as the acting attorney general and named Clark.

The testimony also highlighted how much pressure was put on the Justice Department directly by Trump. He spoke multiple times to Donoghue and Rosen about allegations of fraud and misconduct.

As events continued the pair met with Clark at one point to talk about the letter in what Donoghue described as a contentious meeting. He said he and Rosen tried to convince Clark that the department had examined various claims, while other things fell outside the departments purview. We fundamentally disagreed on what the evidence showed, Donoghue said during testimony. It was just we were almost living in two different worlds.

Former deputy White House counsel Patrick Philbin, who knew Clark, testified that he spoke with the then-acting head of the Civil Division and told him the theories he was espousing and had been debunked. But, Philbin said, he felt Clark pursued what he thought was his duty because Clark believed there were serious issues in the election.

During his testimony Donoghue acknowledged that there were instances of fraud and misconduct that year but nothing of a level to overturn the election. MacDougalds questioning focused on absentee balloting in Fulton County, Georgia and how there were legitimate concerns that had not been fully examined by the department.

The hearing is expected to resume Wednesday with Rosen testifying.

Clark could be sanctioned or disbarred. Any sanctions could be appealed to the D.C. Court of Appeals.

By GARY FIELDS

Associated Press
Former state senator Tom Campbell drops bid for North Dakotas single U.S. House seat View Photo

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP)  One of several Republican candidates jostling for North Dakotas only U.S. House seat has ended his campaign.

Former state Sen. Tom Campbell, a potato farmer from Grafton, announced on Tuesday he is withdrawing from the race.

I feel it would be a better use of my time to avoid a negative campaign, ignoring any threats and focus on the positive, where I can contribute to the well-being of others, Campbell posted to Facebook. At a time where there seems to be too much division and anger, I believe I can make more of a difference taking a different path rather than as 1 in 435 in Congress.

Several candidates are running to succeed Republican Rep. Kelly Armstrong, who first won the seat in 2018 and is now running for governor.

Campbell initially eyed the governors race, then switched to the House race. In 2018, he initially ran for U.S. Senate, but later switched to the House race and ultimately withdrew.

Other Republican candidates for the House seat include former state Rep. Rick Becker, Public Service Commissioner Julie Fedorchak and Alex Balazs, a military veteran and former U.S. State Department employee.

Democrat and military veteran Trygve Hammer also is running. Republicans have held the seat since 2011.

Campbells exit comes less than two weeks before the North Dakota Republican Partys state convention in Fargo, where delegates will endorse candidates for statewide and congressional races.

But some candidates in the open gubernatorial and congressional races have said theyre taking their campaigns to the Republican primary election in June, when voters will decide the nominees for November.
California Restaurant Association says Berkeley to halt ban on natural gas piping in new buildings

California Restaurant Association says Berkeley to halt ban on natural gas piping in new buildings View Photo

BERKELEY, Calif. (AP)  The city of Berkeley, California, has agreed to halt enforcement of a ban on natural gas piping in new homes and buildings that was successfully opposed in court by the California Restaurant Association, the organization said.

The settlement follows the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals refusal to reconsider a 2023 ruling that the ban violates federal law that gives the U.S. government the authority to set energy-efficiency standards for appliances, the association said in a statement last week.

While the Ninth Circuits ruling renders this particular ordinance unenforceable, Berkeley will continue to be a leader in climate action, Berkeley City Attorney Farimah Faiz Brown said in an email to The Associated Press.

The restaurant association said Berkeley agreed to settle the case by taking steps to repeal its ordinance, but because the process will take several months, the city will immediately stop enforcing the ban to comply with the court ruling.

In 2019, Berkeley became the first U.S. city to adopt a ban on natural gas in new homes and buildings, starting a climate change-driven move in many other cities and counties that morphed into a culture war over the future of gas stoves.

The California Restaurant Association filed suit in federal court to overturn Berkeleys ban.

After the 9th Circuits ruling, environmental groups contended it would not affect the majority of cities and counties that have already banned or curtailed natural gas through building codes that meet certain federal requirements. But they said jurisdictions with ordinances constructed similar to Berkeleys might be at risk.

There have been no new bans since the 9th Circuits ruling and some communities have suspended or stopped enforcing their rules, The Sacramento Bee reported Monday.

Sacramento, for example, has not enforced its electrification ordinance since August 2023, the Bee reported.

Jot Condie, president and CEO of the restaurant association, said all cities and counties that passed a similar ordinance should now undo them.

Climate change must be addressed, but piecemeal policies at the local level like bans on natural gas piping in new buildings or all-electric ordinances, which are preempted by federal energy laws, are not the answer, Condie said in the association statement that was issued Friday.
You might spot a mountain lion in California, but attacks like the one that killed a man are rare

You might spot a mountain lion in California, but attacks like the one that killed a man are rare View Photo

LOS ANGELES (AP)  If hikers, bikers, campers, hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts havent encountered a mountain lion while in the California wilderness, they might know somebody who has.

The big cats that can weigh more than 150 pounds (68 kg) live in diverse habitats across the state, including inland forests, coastal chaparral, foothills and mountains. Its not uncommon to spot a cougar near a trail, at a park or even in a backyard while theyre out hunting prey such as deer, raccoons, coyotes and occasionally pets.

But attacks on humans  like the one that recently killed a man and seriously wounded his brother  are rare. The mauling last weekend was the first fatal encounter with a mountain lion in the state in two decades.

Since 1890, there have been fewer than 50 confirmed attacks on people in California, and only six ended in deaths, according to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife. While the prospect of attacks on people is frightening, humans kill far more cougars than the other way around.

Taylen Robert Claude Brooks, 21, was killed Saturday in a remote area northeast of Sacramento. His 18-year-old brother, Wyatt Jay Charles Brooks, survived the attack and is expected to recover after multiple surgeries.

Their family said the brothers from rural Mount Aukum were hunting for shed antlers when they noticed the mountain lion along the edge of a dirt road in El Dorado County. As they were taught growing up, the young men raised their hands in the air to appear larger, shouted and threw a backpack at the lion in an attempt to scare it away, a family statement said.

Instead of retreating, the cougar charged and took the younger brother to the ground by his face.

While Taylen beat on and yelled at the lion, Wyatt was able to wrestle the lion to the ground with him on top of the lion. The lion began clawing at Wyatts midsection causing Wyatt to release his grip. At that point, the lion released Wyatt, got up and charged Taylen, biting Taylen in the throat and taking Taylen to the ground, the statement said.

His face severely lacerated, Wyatt Brooks continued to beat on the big cat in a futile attempt to get it to release his older brother. Eventually he ran back toward their car to find cell service and call 911.

The previous fatal encounter with a cougar was in 2004 in Orange County, according to a verified list kept by the wildlife department.

Last year, a mountain lion pounced on a 5-year-old boy as he ran ahead of his family on a coastal hiking trail near Half Moon Bay. The big cat pinned the boy to the ground but didnt bite him, and ran away when the childs mother charged the animal. In September 2022, a 7-year-old boy escaped major injuries after he was bitten by a cougar while walking with his father at a park near Santa Clarita, north of Los Angeles.

Up the coast in Washington state, a woman was riding her bike on a trail with a group last month when she was attacked by a mountain lion. The woman and her friends were able to fight the animal off, but she suffered injuries to her face and neck.

Meanwhile, mountain lion deaths on California roadways are a common occurrence, and are tracked as part of a two-decade study of the animals by the National Park Service.

In January, a female mountain lion dubbed F-312 by researchers died after being struck by a vehicle while trying to cross the same Orange County highway where one of her cubs was killed.

Scientists have been studying the lions since 2002 in and around Southern Californias Santa Monica Mountains to determine how they survive in a fragmented and urbanized environment.

The most famous cougar in the study, who became a kind of unofficial Los Angeles mascot, was P-22. After crossing two heavily traveled freeways and making his home in LAs urban Griffith Park  home of the Hollywood Sign  P-22 became a symbol for Californias endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity.

P-22s journey inspired a wildlife crossing over a Los Angeles-area highway that will allow big cats and other animals safe passage between the mountains and wildlands to the north. The bridge is currently under construction. P-22 was euthanized in December 2022 after sustaining injuries possibly caused by car.

By CHRISTOPHER WEBER

Associated Press
Feds say Californias facial hair ban for prison guards amounts to religious discrimination View Photo

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  The federal government is asking a court to halt Californias enforcement of a rule requiring prison guards to be clean-shaven, saying it amounts to religious discrimination for Sikhs, Muslims and others who wear beards as an expression of their faith.

The civil rights complaint filed Monday by the U.S. Justice Department says the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitations prohibition on facial hair denies on-the-job accommodations for officers of various religions.

It seeks a temporary court order allowing these officers to wear beards while CDCR fully assesses options for providing them with religious accommodations while complying with California safety regulations, the Justice Department said in a statement.

Sikhs, Muslims and employees of other minority faiths should not be forced to choose between the practice of their faith and their jobs, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke said in the statement. Religious freedom and religious accommodation are bedrock principles of our democracy. We are taking action to ensure that the rights of employees of minority faiths are respected and accommodated in the workplace.

The corrections department maintains its no-beard rule stems from the need for certain employees, including guards, to wear tight-fitting respirators, with state law requiring that facial hair not interfere with the use of such masks that were worn during the coronavirus pandemic, according to court papers cited by the Sacramento Bee.

In an emailed statement to The Associated Press, the state agency defended its policy.

CDCR respects all sincerely held religious beliefs and strives to reasonably accommodate individuals seeking religious reasonable accommodations to the extent doing so does not conflict with other legal obligations, spokesperson Mary Xjimenez said Tuesday.

Tight-fitting respirator masks are legally required under workplace safety laws for certain functions in state prison operations, as well as for the safety and protection of the incarcerated population and other staff. CDCR is fully compliant with the law, and we are confident the court will agree, Xjimenez said.

The Justice Departments complaint, filed in U.S. District Court in Sacramento, also seeks a court order prohibiting retaliation or discipline against officers requesting to grow or keep beards as the case progresses.
Former state Controller Betty Yee announces campaign for California governor View Photo

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  Californias former Controller Betty Yee announced Wednesday she will run for governor in 2026, vying to succeed outgoing Gov. Gavin Newsom against other major Democratic contenders in what will be the first open race for the states top office since 2018.

If elected, Yee would be the first woman to become Californias governor. She is a San Francisco native born to Chinese immigrant parents.

Yee, who currently serves as vice chair of the California Democratic Party, says she wants to tackle affordability, bring transparency to Sacramento and address the climate crisis.

Things in California just dont add up anymore. Families are working harder than ever, but the cost of housing, food, college, childcare, elder care, and more is moving out of our reach, Yee said in a statement. Together we have the grit and the power to make California add up for all of us again.

The race to replace Newsom, who terms out in 2027, will be a Democratic free-for-all sure to attract the partys top talent for the chance to lead the nations most populous state and the worlds fifth largest economy.

Yee will have to compete in an extremely diverse pool of candidates for a post that has mostly been held by white men. Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, who is Black, and outgoing state Senate leader Toni Atkins, a lesbian lawmaker, have all announced their candidacies. Attorney General Rob Bonta, who is Filipino, has said he is seriously considering a run.

Yee served as the budget director for Democratic Gov. Gray Davis. She was then elected as a member of the California State Board of Equalization and then as state controller. California controller is responsible for disbursing state funds, auditing government agencies and serving on more than 70 boards and commissions.
Chinese leader Xi tells Dutch PM that restricting technology access wont stop Chinas advance View Photo

BEIJING (AP)  Chinese leader Xi Jinping told visiting Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Wednesday that attempts to restrict Chinas access to technology will not stop the countrys advance.

The Netherlands imposed export licensing requirements in 2023 on the sale of machinery that can make advanced processor chips. The move came after the United States blocked Chinese access to advanced chips and the equipment to make them, citing security concerns, and urged its allies to follow suit.

An online report from state broadcaster CCTV did not mention the chip machinery, but quoted Xi as saying that the creation of scientific and technological barriers and the fragmentation of the industrial and supply chains will lead to division and confrontation.

The Chinese people also have the right to legitimate development, and no force can stop the pace of Chinas scientific and technological development and progress, Xi said, according to CCTV.

Dutch company ASML is the worlds only producer of machines that use extreme ultraviolet lithography to make advanced semiconductors. In 2023, China became ASMLs second-largest market, accounting for 29% of its revenue as Chinese companies bought up equipment before the licensing requirement took effect.

Rutte, speaking to journalists after his meeting, declined to go into specifics of the talks.

What I can tell you is that  when we have to take measures, that they are never aimed at one country specifically, that we always try to make sure that the impact is limited, is not impacting the supply chain, and therefore is not impacting the overall economic relationship, he said.

The Dutch leader, who was accompanied by Trade Minister Geoffrey van Leeuwen on the trip, said the top issue for him in their meetings with Xi and Chinese Premier Li Qiang was the war in Ukraine.

China has taken a neutral position on the war, providing Russia with diplomatic cover and economic support through trade. That stance has angered and frustrated much of Europe, which sees Russia as the aggressor and Ukraine as the victim.

Rutte said its important for China to understand that this is a direct security threat for us, because if Russia will be successful in Ukraine, it will be a threat to the whole of Europe. It will not end with Ukraine.

He added that he had asked Chinas leaders to put their considerable weight  and they can do that as far as Im concerned in a very discreet way  but as much as possible on Russia to influence the course of events.

ASML, the Netherlands largest company, recently threatened to leave the country over anti-immigration policies that may impact the companys ability to hire talent, leaving government officials scrambling to ensure that the firm does not leave.

Van Leeuwen said this week in an interview with The FD, a Dutch business newspaper, that protecting the interests of ASML is a top priority but acknowledged that national security comes before economic interests.

Beijing has repeatedly accused the U.S. of trying to hold back Chinas economic development by restricting access to technology. In response, Xi has launched a campaign to develop home-grown chips and other high-tech products.

China always opposes the U.S. overstretching the concept of national security and making various excuses to coerce other countries into imposing a technological blockade against China, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said in January.

Rutte said that NATO and its growing ties with Asia did not come up at Wednesdays talks. He is a leading candidate to be the next head of the alliance, which China has criticized for provoking regional tensions and making diplomatic forays into the Asia-Pacific region.

___

Soo reported from Hong Kong. AP writer Michael Corder in The Hague, Netherlands contributed.

By KEN MORITSUGU and ZEN SOO

Associated Press
A BULAWAYO woman (53) was sentenced to 12 months in prison before Tredgold Magistrates Court for unlawful possession of unregistered medicine worth US$136.

In a statement, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe said police arrested Dazzy Zungara on 18 March 2024 at Nkulumane Complex Bus Terminus in possession of metronidazole, Super Apetito, Manforce, Congo Dust, Black Cobra, lemonvate cream, Epiderm cream, and Ibucap capsules.

The accused person also led the police to the rest of her merchandise which was stashed in a red trunk a distance away from the stall, reads the statement.

Breaking News via Email
A man in Kwekwe shocked all and sundry after he was arrested for carrying two cobra snakes in a backpack.

Polite Ncube (26) Village Gono under Chief Mukoka in Gokwe South District, was arrested in Kwekwe Central Business District following a stop and search patrol by police.

He has since been arraigned before Kwekwe Magistrate, Ms Mildred Matuvi facing charges of contravening the Parks and Wildlife Act Chapter 20:14 that of removing any animal or any part of an animal from any land or one place to another or any land.

He was remanded in custody until tomorrow after pleading guilty.

In pleading, he told the court that the snakes were given to him by his grandfather for keeps.

Allegations are that On 25 March 2024 around 3 PM, Ncube was walking along Emmerson Mnangagwa Road in Kwekwe carrying a backpack.

He was intercepted by police officers who were on patrol who searched him and discovered two black cobra snakes stashed in the satchel.

The snakes were taken to Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority while the accused person was arrested.

Ms Ethel Bhumure represented the State.

Breaking News via Email
SELF-IMPOSED Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu says his party will support all government programmes, but colleagues in the party think otherwise.

In an interview with Southern Eye during the commissioning of the Pupu memorial site monument in Lupane by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Tshabangu said: This is a very unique and important place and symbolic place for the people of Matabeleland, where the last battle of King Lobengula was fought, fighting imperialism and the whites.

This is where we say the people of Zimbabwe won in that battle, the reason why we are here, we are here to represent and compliment government programmes, we give it a thumbs up. We are going to be visible in all events that are symbolic, anything that has a national interest we are going to support it.

CCC steering committee treasurer Mbuso Siso, however, dismissed Tshabangus assertions, saying it is not the partys position.

According to the party, Tshabangu remains suspended from the party. Whatever he said at Pupu was not a statement from the partys information desk, but his own personal statements. His representation as the Senator of Matebeleland North (province) does not mean he represent the party, Siso said.

Ibhetshu LikaZulu secretary-general Mbuso Fuzwayo warned CCC not to be deceived into supporting Zanu PF party.

The Pupu programme was fine, but you cannot honour the general Chief Mtshane and others and fail to honour the King, Lobengula, he said.

We should hear the CCC speaking about governments programmes such as the Gukurahundi, these are not victim-centred. Southern Eye.

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Yves here. It is deeply distressing to see how promoters can sell regulators, politicians, and investors on schemes that look great in PowerPoint but (in the most charitable interpretation of the sponsors actions) havent been sufficiently well road tested. With climate change, there is an even stronger impulse to not look too hard at appealing schemes like carbon sequestration. They offer the promise of containing the after-effects of fossil fuel use and thus reduce pressure on the need to radically curb consumption.

By Nicholas Kusnetz, a reporter for Inside Climate News. Originally published at Inside Climate News and was reproduced at Undark

After more than a century of pulling carbon from underground, a rush is underway to pump it back down. Companies have applied for scores of permits across the country to inject carbon dioxide deep into the earth. Several projects have already been approved.

With industry planning to inject tens of millions of tons annually, a looming question is whether the climate-warming gas will stay underground.

The most likely points of failure, experts say, could be some of the millions of abandoned oil and gas wells that perforate the nation, often in the same areas targeted for storing carbon dioxide underground. A new report underscores the risk those wells pose in Louisiana, home to more proposed carbon storage projects than any other state.

There are about 120,000 abandoned wells in Louisiana overlying geological zones that could store carbon dioxide, more than 13,000 of which were plugged before modern standards were adopted in 1953, according to a report published by the Center for Applied Environmental Science at the Environmental Integrity Project, a watchdog group. A separate count, by the Louisiana-based advocacy group Healthy Gulf, looked within a 5-mile radius of the proposed projects and found about 7,000 oil and gas wells.

Its not a question of whether theyre going to leak, said Abel Russ, director of the Center for Applied Environmental Science, which published an accompanying map of the wells. Its a question of how much, how often, and whether its an acceptable level of leakage.

With support from the Biden administration and billions of dollars in new subsidies and tax incentives, energy companies and others are planning to capture millions of tons of industrial carbon dioxide emissions and then pipe the climate pollutant for underground storage, part of an effort to reduce the nations greenhouse gas pollution. Federal and state regulators are reviewing 69 projects or permits to store CO2 underground, with 24 of those in Louisiana. Nine projects have already been approved while one more, in California, is pending.

Companies plan to inject carbon dioxide into porous rock formations that are usually filled with brine containing not only extremely high salt levels but often heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and radioactive elements. Brine leaks, therefore, can be even more worrying than the escape of CO2.

Many scientists who study underground carbon dioxide storage say the risk of large-scale leaks is low. While there will inevitably be some leaks, they say, they will likely be slow, detectable and relatively easy to fix.

Alertness is reasonable, but great fear is not, said Susan Hovorka, a senior research scientist at the Bureau of Economic Geology at the University of Texas, which is funded by government and energy companies involved in carbon storage.

Many environmental advocates remain skeptical, however, and they point to problems caused by the injection of oilfield wastewater under high pressure in West Texas and other regions, the best existing analogue for the planned industrial-scale storage of CO2.

In recent years, toxic brine has seeped and spewed out of old oil and gas wells across West Texas near wastewater injection wells, spouting more than 100 feet in the air and creating an artificial saline lake. The wastewater injections have also caused earthquakes, as the pressurized fluid interacts with faults. Carbon dioxide would be injected as a supercritical fluid that has properties of both a gas and liquid.

While the regulations for carbon dioxide storage are more rigorous than those that cover injection of other substances, abandoned oil wells represent a weak spot in the rules, said Dominic DiGiulio, a former EPA geoscientist and co-author of the new report.

Plugged wells do leak. These wells were plugged a long time ago, and now were going to store supercritical CO2 under very high pressure and hope that these things somehow last thousands of years, DiGiulio said. Its a problem.

Environmental advocates are especially concerned about Louisiana, which recently became the third state, after North Dakota and Wyoming, to get EPA approval to regulate CO2 injection wells. Many advocacy groups worry the state is not equipped to handle oversight of this new and complex technical challenge, and they say state regulators have a history of deferring to the oil and gas industry. They point out that the new secretary of the Department of Energy and Natural Resources, which regulates the wells, previously led Louisianas chief oil and gas lobbying group.

Patrick Courreges, a department spokesman, said the secretary does not have control over regulators.

Picture a massive cake, with alternating layers of spongy, porous cake and dense, impermeable frosting. Thats more or less what the Earths crust is like, if those layers were bent and warped and made of rock.

Over millions of years, oil and gas accumulated in some of the porous layers, held in place by the frosting on top. Hovorka and others say the same geological features that held the hydrocarbons in place can now do the same for carbon dioxide.

The problem is that people, over the last 150 years or so, have poked some 3.9 million straws into the cake in the form of oil and gas wells, according to the EPA, puncturing the layers and opening up paths for fluids and gases to migrate up.

Hundreds of thousands of these abandoned wells have no records, so no one knows exactly where they are. Others may have been plugged with wood or in some cases not at all. Most wells are lined with steel casings that are cemented to the surrounding earth, and are plugged with cement once theyre out of use. But even properly drilled and plugged wells can fail over time as the steel corrodes or the cement degrades. Fluids and gases can then leak up these straws into groundwater or to the surface. Carbon dioxide is buoyant and will move upward if given the chance.

It is these leaky, old wells that have caused the geysers and artificial lakes in West Texas. Elsewhere, including in Louisiana, sinkholes have opened up, sometimes forcing evacuations. More commonly, the wells leak smaller amounts of brine and gas. The EPA estimates abandoned wells release about 300,000 metric tons of methane every year.

Many of the proposed carbon storage projects in Louisiana have at least a few and sometimes dozens of wells within a couple of miles. The Hackberry Carbon Sequestration project, which would inject up to 2 million tons of carbon dioxide captured from a liquified natural gas terminal and other sources in Louisiana, has more than 50 abandoned wells within a 2-mile radius, according to an analysis of state records by the Center for Applied Environmental Science. Many of those wells are unplugged, idle wells or wells that were plugged before 1953, when improved cement standards were established. Some were also drilled down to the depth of 8,000 feet, the level at which the project would inject its carbon dioxide, according to well logs.

The regulations say companies must identify each of the wells within a certain radius of the project and make sure they are properly plugged or secured. For any that are not, companies must plug the well, which can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per well. The pending project in California will require plugging 157 nearby oil and gas wells, according to the draft permit.

That is whats supposed to happen, but DiGiulio said there are several points where this process could fail. There could be undocumented wells, which companies would have to find, either through aerial imaging or field surveys. For wells that are on the books, the regulations do not require companies to do more than checking the record to see if it is plugged, DiGiulio said. It is at the discretion of the regulator whether companies must perform tests on the wells to make sure the records are correct, and that the cement surrounding or plugging the well has not deteriorated.

Whats more, DiGiulio said, even properly plugged wells can leak. He and others have conducted research in Pennsylvania indicating that plugged wells leak more than 130 kilograms of methane a year on average, with some leaking far more.

The area of review that companies must survey is defined as the zone within which the projects injections will increase underground pressure. This zone extends far beyond the plume of carbon dioxide, and can be influenced by any number of variables including the temperature and physical characteristics of the rock and the rate of injection. Companies use modeling to determine their areas of review, but research by Hovorka and others has shown that if two or more projects are injecting into the same zones and are close enough together, the areas they affect can meet and grow to be larger than either projects model would predict independently.

One 2009 study by scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory modeled what would happen if 20 hypothetical projects injected a combined 100 million tons per year into the Illinois Basin, in the Midwest. That volume is far more than currently proposed anywhere but in line with what could be needed if carbon storage becomes a significant industry. The researchers found that the areas of review would essentially combine into one giant, pressurized zone that would extend more than 100 miles beyond the injection wells. The companies, therefore, would need to identify and test abandoned wells across more than 38,000 square miles, which could prove to be impractical or cost prohibitive.

Jens Birkholzer, a co-author of the study and a senior scientist at Lawrence Berkeley, said he thinks the risk of leaks is extremely low. The study was modeling a hypothetical situation far in the future, he said, though the concept they were studying could come into play as projects come online.

DiGiulio said scientists with that perspective generally assume that the regulations are implemented and enforced properly, an expectation he said is not supported by history.

How can you say this isnt a problem? DiGiulio said, pointing to the leaks and blowouts in West Texas.

Courreges, the Department of Energy and Natural Resources spokesman, said the regulators are aware of the potential for projects to interact and that they take seriously the risks posed by abandoned wells.

They need to demonstrate to our satisfaction that its properly plugged, Courreges said of companies proposing projects. That could entail simply checking records for newer wells, he said, or conducting field tests for older ones. Is there a possibility some old well will be missed? Courreges said. Nothing can be ruled out 100 percent, but he said most areas have good documentation.

Sempra Infrastructure, the company behind the Hackberry project, said there are no other wells within the projects area of review and that the company would utilize real-time monitoring with the most advanced fiber optic technology and regular site visits to ensure Sempra Infrastructures commitment to safety and sustainability.

The size of the projects area of review remains confidential and Sempra did not answer a question asking how far it extends.

The challenge abandoned wells present to carbon dioxide storage proposals is not unique to Louisiana. Texas has also applied to regulate CO2 injection wells, a prospect that troubles Paige Powell, policy manager at Commission Shift, an energy watchdog group in that state. Her organization recently sent a letter to the EPA asking it to revoke Texass oversight of wastewater injection wells  Texas and most other states already have primacy for wastewater injection wells  citing the recent blowouts and leaks from abandoned wells.

Theres things happening in the subsurface that they dont know about, Powell said, adding that she was skeptical of claims that CO2 injection wells wont leak. I think its audacious to say its not going to happen.

Russ, with the Center for Applied Environmental Science, said he was troubled by the lack of information available about the carbon storage applications. Many details remain secret, and wont be published until the state opens draft permits for public review.

Everyone is stuck in this position of being uninformed and skeptical, and thats not a great place to be in, Russ said. Its just moving so fast, its so novel and so untested, there are a lot of unanswered questions and the lack of information in that context is bad.
What Birds Dreams Can Tell Us About Our Own New York Times (Dr. Kevin)

New archive of ancient human brains challenges misconceptions of soft tissue preservation Science Daily (Kevin W)

Inverse vaccine shows the potential to treat autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis. University of Chicago Magazine (ma)

Awaiting a decision on new research regulations, scientists pen dueling articles to shape gain-of-function policies Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists (ma)

What Is It Like to Be Manic? Oxonian Review (Anthony L). Mania is quite enjoyable and productive, or so I am told, but the one person who described it to me also said she made connections that werent necessarily valid (a tendency of schizophrenics) and she also had a tendency to paranoia.

#COVID-19

Public Health New Zealand: -Cognitive impairment after mild infection (not a cold), assess pilots, drivers, technical staff

-Long Covid to increase in the population due to rapid evolution

-Each infection a throw of the dice

-Unknown natural history of Cov2 https://t.co/XXnClvGloy pic.twitter.com/guoVVVxaeR  AJ Leonardi, MBBS, PhD (@fitterhappierAJ) March 26, 2024 This is amazing. Can cryptic lineages tell us anything about the origins of SARS-CoV-2 (SC2)? The answer may surprise you, it surprised the hell out of me. 1/  Marc Johnson (@SolidEvidence) March 25, 2024

Falling Down Bridge

Climate/Environment

China?

Down Under

Australia chose Aukus and now it faces the prospect of having no submarine capability for at least a decade Malcolm Turnbull, Guardian. This is no surprise. Many including this humble site predicted that as the likely result.

Old Blighty

Gaza

New Not-So-Cold War

Big Brother is Watching You Watch

Facebook Accused of Using Your Phone To Wiretap Snapchat Gizmodo

Imperial Collapse Watch

US racing to deploy sub-launched hypersonic missiles Asia Times. UserFriendly: They toch on our lack of a nuclear umbrella here, but this digs in a bit more. Russian Navy MiG-31 Interceptors Force American B-1B Bombers Back in Arctic Military Watch. A reader in comments yesterday noted that the mainstream media ignored this incident. It did make the specialist press.

Trump

Trumps new social media company looks like a meme stock Yahoo (furzy). Sigh, Like about half the tech stocks.

2024

RFK, Jr. Heads exploding!

The Washington Monthly Newsletter: March 26, 2024. Leading the subhead: RFK Jr.s VP pick is an affront to democracy. Mind you, I am not a fan, but the harrumphing that Shanahan is too unqualified to be a heartbeat away from Presidency is laughable in light of Kamala Harris. RFK Jr.s Running Mate Is Young and Very Rich. That Worries Dems. New Republic

Democrats en deshabille

Saving Democracy From Itself: The Democratic National Committee Moves To Block Third Party Candidates Jonathan Turley

Immigration

NYC moving ahead with plan to give prepaid debit cards to migrant families Pix11, YouTube The US will never, ever accept this, but it's a brilliant use of leverage by Mexico's President AMLO. Biden wants AMLO's help to stop immigration. So AMLO demanded that the US:

-end its illegal blockade of Cuba

-lift its illegal sanctions on Venezuela

-give aid to poor countries https://t.co/x0oAMmsF4P  Ben Norton (@BenjaminNorton) March 27, 2024

Woke Watch

Gender and Its Enemies Chronicle of Higher Education (Anthony L)

Our No Longer Free Press

"Misinformation expert" is a fake credential. It was invented after 2016 to disguise political censorship as a act of neutral science. The idea that people like this can be floating arbiters of truth and falsity  and their decrees should be binding  is a laughable fraud: https://t.co/bTEcP0JOLE  Glenn Greenwald (@ggreenwald) March 26, 2024 One thing Ive been thinking about is how so many major MSNBC hosts loudly criticized management for hiring Ronna McDaniel, but were silent about the sidelining of the only 3 Muslim hosts, & the exit of @mehdirhasan after 10/7. https://t.co/JEHSOea5RG  Briahna Joy Gray (@briebriejoy) March 26, 2024 From a few days ago, still germane: Palestinian journalist at Detroit news station sues, alleges retaliation, racial discrimination Detroit News (ma) Florida Braces For Lawsuits Over Law Banning Kids From Social Media ars technica By e-mail, from reader Li: Taibbi piece made it to the CFP [Citizen Free Press] stack! CFP gets 240m page views, more than WSJ and Politico This is how it appeard 8 PM Wednesday: Congress is prepared to fund new bridge for Baltimore.

Jamaal Bowman gets whiplash after 180* on Hamas.

Democrats want hearings on Jared Kushner.

Gay Chicago veterinarian arrested for plot to sexually assault his newborn son.

Used drugs to sexually assault multiple children.

Is the governors brother helping Illegal Chinese marijuana farms.

Something smells rotten in Maine.

7 construction workers fall into Chesapeake, only one survives.

Supreme Court (likely) to allow Abortion drug Mifepristone to remain available.

Could be 7-2 decision in closely watched case.

United Nations prepares to enforce worlds first global tax on emissions.

Google punishes financial website Naked Capitalism.

$100,000 for this photo of Obama.

Medicare Advantage is overbilling Medicare by 22% Morningstar

US small-caps suffer worst run against larger stocks in more than 20 years Financial Times. A collapse in breadth is often a precursor to a correction. Any technicians who care to pipe up?

A recent study by economists at the Federal Reserve found that less than half of the published papers they examined could be replicated, even when given help from the original authors.https://t.co/WMkuYWrjBg from @TheEconomist  Emanuel Derman (@EmanuelDerman) March 25, 2024

The Bezzle

Elon Musk requires FSD demo for every prospective Tesla buyer in North America CNBC Do McKinsey and other consultants do anything useful? Economist (Dr. Kevin). They can but as the firm has gotten really big, they have gotten very good at selling makework studies to fill the pipeline.

Class Warfare

Antidote du jour (via):

And a bonus:

this cat is a UNIT pic.twitter.com/7dtXgYW9be  Why you should have a cat (@ShouldHaveCat) March 25, 2024

A second bonus:

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
Yves here. John Helmer provides a detailed and informative review of information about the Crocus massacre, focusing on accounts from the Russian side. One aspect that features prominently here, and as far as I can tell, has been neglected in Western reports, is the role of the fire and building collapse in the deaths and casualties. Helmer notes that the four shooters left before theyd gotten halfway through their ammo, suggesting they left to escape the blaze. There are also accusations in Russia that the theater was out of compliance with multiple fire-risk-reducing requirements, compounded by the use of cheap and particularly flammable Chinese materials.

By John Helmer, the longest continuously serving foreign correspondent in Russia, and the only western journalist to direct his own bureau independent of single national or commercial ties. Helmer has also been a professor of political science, and an advisor to government heads in Greece, the United States, and Asia. He is the first and only member of a US presidential administration (Jimmy Carter) to establish himself in Russia. Originally published at Dances with Bears

In just thirteen minutes, four Kalashnikov rifles, knives, and plastic bottles of gasoline, discharged by four men, were not enough to kill and injure so many people as have been accounted for to date in the Crocus City Hall attack in Moscow.

More than half those examined so far in post-mortems died as a result of the fire from exposure to high temperature and combustion products, according to Alexander Bastrykin, the chief investigator in his public report to President Vladimir Putin on Monday night. Post-mortems have yet to be reported for one-third of the 139 dead counted by Bastrykin; no analysis of the cause of injuries to 182 of the surviving casualties has been reported yet; 93 of them remain in hospital.

Bastrykin also reported two AK-74 assault rifles, over 500 rounds of ammunition, 28 magazines with ammunition, and bottles with remaining gasoline were found and seized at the scene. A NATO military expert explains: They didnt strike me as well-trained, so they lost time changing magazines and their fire wasnt all that accurate. These data tell me the majority of victims died from some other cause than gunshot.

Yevgeny Krutikov, a writer with military intelligence sources, reported in Vzglyad: It can be assumed that the weapons were stored in the terrorists cache for a long time and not too carefully  the machine guns sparkled during the shooting. This indicates damage to the barrel or breech (dirt got inside the barrel).

Recruitment of the shooters; pre-placement of weapons and ammunition; accommodation and advance payment to the gunmen; purchase of the car they used; communications and coordination; exit undetected in the crowds escaping the building; and the escape route to the Ukraine border through Bryansk region  the evidence of these details prepared over weeks and months indicate a much larger organization than the four shooters formed with seven others already arrested and under interrogation.

What they know and will tell is likely to reveal a sophisticated command-and-control system which knew how vulnerable the target was, how to maximize the killing in the shortest possible duration, and at the same time allow escape for the attackers  which is almost unprecedented in the recent history of mass terrorist attacks in Russia. .

Thats to say, the command knew  the shooters and their accomplices didnt. There was advance reconnoiter of the Crocus City Hall so that the shooters knew the route they followed inside the building and then out under cover of fire and smoke, which erupted faster than they were able to shoot almost half of their ammunition which they left behind.

Did the command also know that Crocus City Hall and the surrounding mall were operating without adequate fire alarms, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, sprinklers, and emergency ventilation, none of which has been reported by eyewitnesses? Was the building targeted because the command knew it was constructed without fire-resistant structural supports, allowing ceilings and roof to cave in, choking or crushing those beneath to death?

Most of the victims in Crocus died not at the hands of terrorists, but from the criminal negligence of the owners and regulatory authorities, reported Mikhail Delyagin, chairman of the State Duma Committee on Economic Policy, on Sunday evening. It is known that many people suffocated with carbon monoxide inside the building. There are already more victims of this kind than those killed by terrorist shooting. Nothing like this could happen in a certified building built according to modern standards for such objects. Why? Because all such buildings are equipped with an automatic ventilation system. These are windows or hatches that fire off automatically if the detector detects an increased level of carbon monoxide inside. Holes open in the roof  and the life-threatening gas goes into the sky. This system works, by the way, without electricity, on compressed air.

The way the Crocus burned down shows that cheap Chinese materials (glass wool, plastics, cable braid, etc.) were used in its decoration, which are prohibited for use in public buildings. The reason for the ban? Combustibility. In Europe, non-burning glass wool, plastics, etc. have been used for a long time. They are, of course, twice or three times more expensive than the Chinese equivalent. But they have one advantage: they do not burn in case of fire. And they dont kill those who are inside.

Delyagin has publicly accused Aras Agalarov, the wealthy founder of the Crocus shopping and development group, and his son Emin of failing to formally commission this particular concert hall. As it became known, it is not listed as a properly designed capital construction object on the cadastral map of the Federal Register. Apparently, the amount of bribes needed to receive such a dangerous object exceeded all reasonable limits, and for Agalarov, taking into account the above-mentioned monstrous violations of standards, it was cheaper to extend the status of a building under construction than to put it into operation.

Bastrykin has announced the investigation is checking the possibility of violation of safety requirements and the fire extinguishing system in the Crocus City Hall concert hall. For this purpose, remote controls, electronic components and control devices for the fire protection system of the concert hall were seized. They are aimed at researching and extracting information about the operating mode of fire safety systems at the time of the terrorist attack. The contents of the fire protection system server are being studied with the participation of experts. To establish the operability and timely operation of all fire safety systems, a fire technical examination has been appointed.

Emin Agalarov has issued a press statement claiming he arrived before the gunmen had left. He said he entered the building 40 minutes after the first shots were fired. He noted that the fire safety system was working and the doors were unlockedThe sprinkler fire extinguishing system was also operating normally. The building collapsed only six hours after the start of the terrible fire. Some rooms remained intact and did not burn down.

If we focus too hard on the minute details which are being patched together, this might clear up some details of assault, comments a retired senior intelligence source in a position to know, we might learn something more but not the fundamentals. These [the four shooters] are no ISIS-K. . The harder New York Times, BBC and The Guardian try to prove they are, the less we have to believe it. They are no jihadists. Just murderers. Mercenaries brought in a month ago.

They are not suicide killers. There are no reports of this ISIS outfit operating away from Afghanistan and Pakistan. Certainly not in Tajikistan. However there are mercenaries at a dime a dozen there who have fought all over. Including in ISIS.

At Ukraine entry, they would certainly have been killed, removing all the evidence. The investigation will show they were hired, paid for. A Tajikistan blogger news service reported raids in [Tajik] villages, but then removed it. I am sure their families and friends will be picked up and all connections to jihadists or contractors will be established. They are not migrants, do not speak Russian, and thus cannot claim any ethnic discrimination vendetta [against Russians].

President Putin claimed in his meeting with the security services on Monday: We know that the crime was perpetrated by radical Islamists. The Islamic world itself has been fighting this ideology for centuries. But we are also seeing how the United States is using different channels to try and convince its satellites and other countries of the world that, according to its intelligence, there is supposedly no sign of Kievs involvement in the Moscow terrorist attack, that the deadly terrorist attack was perpetrated by followers of Islam, members of ISIS, an organisation banned in Russia. We know whose hands were used to commit this atrocity against Russia and its people. We want to know who ordered it.

What Putin meant by radical Islamists is unclear; the public evidence of the four individuals who have been charged has yet to confirm a record of their religiosity or any ideological conviction.

The officials at the Kremlin meeting on Monday: Prosecutor-General Igor Krasnov, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office Anton Vaino, First Deputy Chief of the Presidential Executive Office Sergei Kiriyenko, Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova, Presidential aide Maxim Oreshkin, Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev, Emergencies Minister Alexander Kurenkov, Minister of Labour and Social Protection Anton Kotyakov, Healthcare Minister Mikhail Murashko, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Director of the Federal Security Service Alexander Bortnikov, Commander of the National Guard Troops Viktor Zolotov, Chairman of the Investigative Committee Alexander Bastrykin, Moscow Region Governor Andrei Vorobiev, and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. Source: http://en.kremlin.ru/

For the time being, the only evidence connecting the four shooters to the Ukraine is the direction they were taking when their vehicle was stopped by the security forces. In a shootout the car overturned, and three of the gunmen fled into the forest beside the road, leaving one man injured in the car.

The head of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy, Alexander Khinshtein, is the source for press reporting on the site of the interception. That was on Highway E101 about seven kilometres south of the P-120 intersection east of Bryansk city. From Bastrykins report, and from an award ceremony in Bryansk on Monday for the forces who made the capture  Federal Security Service (FSB), Interior Ministry, National Guard, and border forces of the Defense Ministry  the getaway was being tracked for some time before it reached the P-120 intersection. At that point, if the four men planned to head for Belarus, they would have turned right, followed the south circular road around Bryansk, and then turned left on to the A-240 towards the Belarus border, about 100 kms to the southwest.

Instead, the men drove due south and on the highway near Khatsun, they were about 100 kms from the Ukraine border. There have been reports they were expecting to make a rendezvous with accomplices they believed would guide them to safety over the Ukraine border, and to payday. Or, as Moscow sources speculate, to their execution by the Ukrainians.

Above: Google map of the roads and villages, including Khatsun, east of Bryansk city. Below: the view in daylight of the point on Highway E-101 where the gunmen were intercepted about five minutes after they passed the Belarus turnoff, confirming to the security forces tracking the car that they were heading to the Ukraine.

Speculation, however, including analysis of the cui bono, who gains type, the sequence of statements from Washington, and the history of association between the US, British and Ukrainian secret services and Tajik mercenaries, creates a balance of probabilities, but not an explanation beyond reasonable doubt.

Of course, we must also answer the question of why the terrorists, after committing their crime, attempted to flee specifically to Ukraine, the president said at his meeting with security officials on Monday. Who was waiting for them there? It is clear that those supporting the Kiev regime do not wish to be implicated in acts of terrorism and be seen as sponsors of terrorism. But there are indeed numerous questions.

Public comments to reporters on Tuesday by the FSB chief Alexander Bortnikov and Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev have answered with emphasis on the Ukrainians, backed by the US and UK.

Source: https://t.me/s/boris_rozhin March 26  15:34.

Boris Rozhin (Colonel Cassad) has followed their remarks with a detailed statement of the history of the intelligence service operations before the Crocus attack, and a circumstantial detail of Ukrainian border drone operations in the area and on the night the getaway car was headed through Bryansk region. Click to read  March 26, Min 22: 23.

What is evident so far, including from the line of Tajik accomplices now making formal appearances in a Moscow court, is the absence of ideology or religiosity of the radical Islamic type; and ignorance of where their orders and money were coming from, and why. This non-evidence points to the Ukraine as strongly as the road the four shooters were taking when they were caught.

Their subsequent demeanour in brief videoclips after capture, in hospital, and in court confirms what the military blogger Boris Rozhin calls dumb hysteriabehaviour [that is] typical in a situation where the actions of terrorists do not have a deep ideological basis. This is the case of the Crocus gunmen, where the sole motivation is only money. Already in the moment of flight, the criminals realized what they had committed and, since the terrorist attack was not supported by ideology, the militants were seized with animal fear for their own lives. Therefore, during the interrogation, they are ready to tell everything, cry and so on, just to stay alive.

The Russian intelligence agency investigations now under way, according to Krutikov, are tracing the Telegram accounts through which the terrorists received instructions, including during their departure from the crime scene. Most likely, it is this branch which directly links the investigation with the Ukrainian direction due to the indication of a specific square at the border crossing.

The public recriminations against the Agalarov family are not supported by Alexander Kurenkov, the Emergencies Minister, who told the Kremlin meeting on Monday in a brief, ambiguous report: The building was equipped with an automatic fire alarm system. This system responded to the fire as expected. There was also a set of four robotized fire-fighting hoses and a software control system, which worked in conjunction with other fire protection systems. They were activated during the terrorist attack, but the arson involved the use of flammable substances. According to experts, the system failed to extinguish the fire due to its wide spread. This is what I wanted to say. We managed to totally extinguish the fire on wall panels, given the materials they were made of, only at 6.40 pm today [March 25]. The search and rescue operations continue. They are expected to be completed by 5 pm tomorrow [March 26]. This concludes my report.

An Emergencies Ministry (MChS) expert has released data indicating the fire covered 12,900 square metres and more than 900 cubic metres of collapsed structures were removed. In the videoclip the roofless exterior wall can be seen, and the destruction of the inner auditorium.

Source: https://www.kommersant.ru

A local fire brigade source comments: this was a Category-5 fire  Class 5 is an extreme fire hazard  and the services did an extraordinarily professional job to contain and extinguish a fire of such intensity. He said the roof may have collapsed between 2:30 am and 3:30 am. This corroborates Emin Agalarovs report of the timing.

The fire expert explained: If lots of fuel was spilled in the auditorium among the chairs with synthetic fabric and plastic elements, then even low-inflammable things could start burning. They are resistant to high temperatures, but not to extremely high ones. In this case the sprinkler system can be useless.

The Moscow region governor, Andrei Vorobiev (Vorobyov), was at the site half an hour after the gang had left. An operational headquarters has been established. All the details will come later. At 10:39 on Saturday evening [March 23] he reported by video that the roof was still ablaze and that firefighters were pouring water on it from extension ladders.

Governor Vorobiev is at lower left. Source: https://t.me/vorobiev_live/6164

Six hours later, at 04:43, Vorobiev posted a new video clip from inside the building in which he confirmed with firemen that the roof had fallen in. The collapse of structures continues now, Vorobiev reported. There are still some pockets of fire, but most of the fire has been eliminated. Rescuers were able to enter the auditorium, where the temperature had been high for a long time and where, apparently, the epicentre of the fire was. The roof over the auditorium has collapsed, and the debris is still being dismantled.

Source: https://t.me/vorobiev_live/6170

Delyagin was asked to say if he wished to correct his initial report and modify his allegations against the Agalarovs; he has not answered.

The political repercussions of the attack have been amplified in the Moscow media. But at a meeting of the Prosecutor-Generals Office Board on Tuesday, Putin played down his claim about radical Islamists of the day before. As you know, he said, the perpetrators responsible for this mass murder have been arrested, and our law enforcement agencies are diligently investigating the circumstances surrounding this barbaric crime. They are piecing together the details of the attack, determining the roles and culpability of each individual involved, and analyzing the findings provided by criminalists and experts. The Federal Security Service [FSB], alongside other intelligence services, is actively addressing pertinent issues in coordination with the National Anti-Terrorism Committee.

The president added: I trust that the prosecutors, within the scope of their authority, will ensure that justice is served when charging the accused and during the legal proceedings. This appears to be a response to western media reports that the four gunmen were beaten up and tortured after their capture.

Prosecutor-General Igor Krasnov said to Putin: These atrocities have a common goal  to intimidate people, to destroy the unity of our people. Their performers, customers and curators will inevitably be punished. That is why the most important task for Russia remains to achieve the goals of a special military operation. Putin had said the same thing the day before: Their goal, as I mentioned, is to sow panic in our society while demonstrating to their own people that not all hope is lost for the Kiev regime. All they need to do is follow the orders of their Western patrons, fight until the last Ukrainian, obey Washingtons commands, endorse the new mobilization law, and form something resembling a new version of the Hitler Youth. To comply with all of this, they will seek new weapons and additional funds, much of which will likely be embezzled and, as is customary in Ukraine today, put into their own pockets.

As more time has elapsed and the interrogations of the attack group have produced no new official evidence, the Russian media have been publishing angry calls to restrict migration into Russia, both legal and illegal; attacks on ethnic communities like the Tajiks; and on the corruption of Russian officials providing them with entry, residence, and work permits. The Kremlin has responded with a brief communique of a telephone call between Putin and the Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon: During the conversation, Vladimir Putin and Emomali Rahmon noted that the security services of Russia and Tajikistan were working closely together to counter terrorism and that they would build up their cooperation.

Konstantin Malofeev (Malofeyev), owner of the Tsargrad media group in Moscow, has published several policy calls under the slogan, the internal threat has turned out to be no less serious than the external one. There should be no xenophobia towards Ukrainians, Jews, and Muslims, according to Malofeev. We are a multinational country. Thats the only reason she became an Empire. Because she is not only strong, but also kind. And xenophobia is the lot of the weak. The strong are not afraid. But a competent migration policy, of course, must be carried out. There should be no migration enclaves. There should be no diasporas which try to replace the government, whom the government consults and fears. Members of these diasporas should not be above the law. If they come to Russia, then the main thing for them should be the law.

Imagine what three million hardworking migrants would do in Moscow, for example, if they all came out at once Its not a bell anymore  its a bell ringing, a rumble. Its time to take up migration legislation. Only in this case will we be able to protect ourselves. Fortunately, I have evidence that the people in power who are responsible for migration have heard this ringing. I hope this will affect our streets and our safety. I hope that we will no longer have to catch Tajiks a hundred kilometres from the Ukrainian border who cannot speak Russian, but at the same time live freely in Russia.

Home page of Tsargrad illustrated with a collage of armed Tajik fighters appearing to pose in front of the Kremlin; Konstantin Malofeev is pictured at upper right. For more on how Malofeev made his first fortune, click to read this and the archive.

Putin responded swiftly in his speech to prosecutors on Tuesday; the State Duma followed. [Prosecutors should] consider implementing a system of additional preventive and anti-crime measures, the president said, including supervision of compliance with migration legislation. The situation in this area, which is very important and of great concern to millions of people, must be closely monitored. The same day, Vyacheslav Volodin, the Duma Speaker, told a parliamentary session that he is appointing a multi-party working group that will analyze the entire range of legislation that is relevant to the challenges of today, and legislation in the field of migration.

Pro-US reporters in Moscow reverse the direction of the crackdown Malofeev and his supporters advocate. Russians will likely face the security crackdown that, ironically [sic], they have largely avoided over two years of war in Ukraine. That would mean a further tightening of the screws on speech and make it much harder to use public transportation or gather in large groups. Communities of migrant workers will likely face a real crackdown the tactics once adopted to deal with terrorists became quickly accepted as a new norm to treat political dissent. Thus the torture the Russian security services used against four suspects might be used against all sort of people in the country. This is the most direct consequence of the attack.

Malofeev and the Tsargrad group are not alone in saying the Crocus City Hall attack should lead to intensification of the military operations in the Ukraine. They struck at us, at our civilians, moreover, in the very center of our Homeland. This is an act of war. It needs to be answered as we have said many times. It must finally be answered with the massive real use of weapons that will allow us to win this war. We must give the civilian population [in the Ukraine] 48 hours to leave the cities and then strike with all our might. Then the war will end quickly, which means that the sponsorship of terrorist attacks will stop. No Americans and British, without the Armed Forces of Ukraine, without Kiev, without the current war, will sponsor terrorist attacks on the territory of Russia.

For the time being, there has been no impact of the Crocus attack and the Moscow media debate on the operational or strategic plans under way in the Ukraine. The intensification of the General Staffs offensive along the line of contact in the Donbass; in the electric war against Kharkov and other cities east of the Dnieper River; and in the missile attacks on targets from Kiev to Lvov  reported here  commenced before the Moscow events; they are continuing as planned.

Those in political command who have been favouring an outcome to the war that falls short of regime change in Kiev and extension of demilitarization to the Polish border, observes a Moscow political source, have lost their voice since Saturday night.
Vanderbilt Universitys student newspaper The Vanderbilt Hustler reported early Wednesday morning that, after nearly 24 hours occupying Kirkland Hall, 25 students were removed by the Vanderbilt University Police Department. The Hustler reports that two students previously left the building due to personal emergencies, 16 students were placed on interim suspension, and three were arrested for bodily injury and assault; another student who was protesting outside was reportedly arrested Tuesday night for destruction of property. Scene reporter Eli Motycka was also arrested while covering the protests on Tuesday. Motycka was later released and charges were dismissed.

On Tuesday morning, 27 students forcibly entered Kirkland Hall  which had been closed for renovations  to protest what they describe as the universitys suppression of pro-Palestinian activism. This includes blocking a vote on a resolution supporting a Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement through the Vanderbilt Student Government. Twenty-five Vanderbilt faculty members signed a letter criticizing the university for stopping the vote.

Scene Reporter Arrested at Vanderbilt University Scene staff writer Eli Motycka was reporting on student protests regarding campus speech and Israel's military invasion of Gaza

Outside Kirkland Hall, roughly two dozen additional students repeated protest chants.

Students engaged in the Kirkland Hall sit-in had been threatened with interim suspensions and removal by VUPD. The Hustler reports  and Vanderbilt students protesting outside the building tell the Scene  that those sitting in Kirkland could not eat or use the restroom as long as they remained in the building.

According to a statement from Vanderbilts communications department, Student Affairs staff took a graduated approach to de-escalate the situation, including asking the students to leave, warning them that they could be disciplined and issuing interim suspensions, which require students to leave campus.

A Vanderbilt representative also says some students physically assaulted a Community Service Officer to gain entrance and proceeded to push staff members who offered to meet with them. A video from the university shows the students entry.

Students Say Vanderbilt Is Keeping Pro-Palestine Activism Quiet Evidence shows administrators are putting Vanderbilt Divest Coalition's efforts through the bureaucratic spin cycle

Free expression is a core value at Vanderbilt, as is civil discourse, says a university representative. Our policies allow for members of the Vanderbilt community to protest and demonstrate regarding issues they care deeply about. Dozens of peaceful demonstrations have occurred over the past several months. In consideration of safety and the universitys normal operations, we, as a matter of policy, define time, place and manner limitations. The safety and well-being of our community is a top priority. The university will take action when our policies are violated, the safety of our campus is jeopardized and when people intimidate or injure members of our community.

Vanderbilt Student Government president Sam Sliman tells the Scene that the universitys response to the protest is pretty absurd given the university's big focus on open dialogue, free speech. He says hes not surprised by the universitys actions, which echo other responses that Sliman has seen in his four years at Vandy.

This is very much in line with how they like to handle things. ... This is just what we've come to expect from them at this point.

See photos above from the Scene's Hamilton Matthew Masters.
Defense Secretary Austin: Ukraines survival in DANGER unless the West provides more MILITARY AID

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has warned that Ukraine's very existence hangs in the balance unless the West provides additional military aid.

The head of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) issued this warning on March 19, during a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany. The March 19 trip was his first overseas visit since he was hospitalized in January.

"Today, Ukraine's survival is in peril, and America's security is in jeopardy," Austin emphasized at a press conference following the meeting. He stressed the importance of maintaining a steady flow of weapons, equipment and ammunition to Kyiv. Doing so, Austin added, was "a matter of survival and sovereignty for Ukraine [and] a matter of honor and security for America."

Boris Pistorius, Austin's German counterpart, announced a new 500 million ($543 million) weapons package for Kyiv after the UDCG meeting. "We have once again put together an aid package worth almost half a billion euros," he told reporters. (Related: Ukraine running out of tanks as military struggles to repair machinery damaged by Russia.)

According to the German defense minister, the aid package include 10,000 artillery shells from existing Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) stocks  with deliveries to begin "immediately." Aside from artillery shells, Pistorius also mentioned that 100 infantry vehicles and 100 unarmored vehicles will be sent as part of the package.

Meanwhile, Austin did not outline specific plans for how the U.S. intends to support Ukraine without further funding. A proposed bill offering over $60 billion in assistance to Kyiv is stuck at the Republican-controlled House of Representatives. President Joe Biden has been pressuring House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) to expedite the bill, but to no avail.

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.

But what about the West's survival?

Even Washington itself has nearly depleted is congressionally-approved funding for Ukraine. The Defense Department, which Austin heads, has requested at least $6.5 billion from Congress to replenish its own dwindling stockpiles.

Recently, the White House managed to assemble a $300 million ammunition package from the DoD's savings  marking the first U.S. funding allocation since 2024 began. However, the White House warned that this amount would only be able to support Ukraine for a few weeks. Aside from this, the U.S. has also encouraged Ukraine to broaden its mobilization efforts to include younger men to bolster the depleted ranks of frontline brigades.

"Ukrainian forces lost the key Donbas fortress of Avdeevka last month, pulling back in disorder before the advancing Russian forces, and have been taking heavy casualties in open battle ever since," InfoWars noted. "The battle has prompted French military analysts to conclude that Kiev can't possibly win on the battlefield, according to classified reports leaked to the outlet Marianne earlier this month."

Continued provision of military aid isn't just compromising the national security of the U.S.  it is also compromising that of Germany, Ukraine's second-largest source of armaments. According to a report by the Bundestag (Germany's parliament), the Bundeswehr is rife with shortages of ammunition, spare parts, tanks, ships and aircraft. The report also noted that while the issues have been present even before the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, they have reportedly worsened ever since German Chancellor Olaf Scholz began pulling weapons and equipment from German stocks to send to Kyiv.

Moreover, the Bundeswehr faces an aging and shrinking workforce that, when coupled with the lack of armaments, could spell doom for Berlin. Despite Scholz's announcement of a 100 billion ($108.45 billion) rearmament program in 2022, several German soldiers lamented the sorry state of the nation's military the year after.

The service members told the New York Times in 2023 that they still lack adequate ammunition for training exercises and live in substandard barracks despite the chancellor's promises. They also lamented that they have not gotten to fire the Bundeswehr's latest howitzers, all of which have been sent to Ukraine.

Watch Clayton and Natali Morris discuss why Ukraine is clearly finished in the clip below.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Ukraine general says rift between civilian and military authorities is growing amid discontent over inability to defeat Russia.

Victoria Nulands RESIGNATION spells BAD NEWS for Ukraine.

Biden wants to redirect U.S. Army funding to UKRAINE.

Sources include:

InfoWars.com

RT.com

Brighteon.com
FDA settles ivermectin lawsuit, agrees to delete posts discouraging its use against COVID-19

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has agreed to remove social media posts and web pages discouraging the use of ivermectin to treat Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) infection as part of a lawsuit settlement.

The FDA, which denied any wrongdoing, said it will remove content warning people not to use ivermectin to treat COVID-19 within 21 days. The move came as a condition of a settlement dated March 21, according to the Epoch Times. In exchange, doctors who sued the regulator will no longer pursue further legal action and will dismiss their claims.

Among the posts the agency will remove as part of the settlement include a March 5, 2021 consumer update titled "Why You Should Not Use Ivermectin to Treat or Prevent COVID-19." The said post contained pictures of a doctor and a horse, a nod to the antiviral being smeared as a "horse dewormer."

Also included in the content to be removed is a post on X (formerly Twitter) that discouraged the use of ivermectin against COVID-19. "You are not a horse. You are not a cow. Seriously, yall. Stop it," the aforementioned post stated.

Previously, the FDA removed a page that also advised the public against taking "ivermectin to prevent or treat COVID-19." It explained: "The FDA has not authorized or approved ivermectin for use in preventing or treating COVID-19 in humans or animals." It also falsely mentioned that data do not show ivermectin is effective against COVID-19, despite how some studies it cites show ivermectin is effective against the illness. (Related: Ivermectin helped people RECOVER FASTER from COVID-19 infections, study finds.)

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.

In an email, an FDA spokesperson explained that the agency "has chosen to resolve this lawsuit rather than continuing to litigate over statements that are between two and nearly four years old." They also reiterated that the FDA "has not changed its position" about ivermectin's use against COVID-19, stressing that it hasn't approved the antiviral drug for that purpose.

FDA smearing ivermectin despite approving it

According to Children's Health Defense, the plaintiffs involved in the case called the March 21 settlement a big win for patients and the patient-physician relationship.

"This landmark case sets an important precedent in limiting FDA overreach into the doctor-patient relationship," said plaintiff Dr. Mary Talley Bowden in a statement. "FDA loses its war on ivermectin and agrees to remove all social media posts and consumer directives regarding ivermectin and COVID-19, including its most popular tweet in FDA history."

Co-plaintiff Dr. Paul Marik, also the president and chief scientific officer of the Front Line COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance, lauded the settlement. He said: "We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the settlement, as it is a victory for every doctor and patient in the United States."

"The FDA interfered in the practice of medicine with [its] irresponsible language and posts about ivermectin. We will never know how many lives were affected because patients were denied access to a lifesaving treatment, because their doctor was 'just following the FDA.'"

The regulator first approved ivermectin in 1996 to treat several conditions, including river blindness. Doctors in the U.S. commonly prescribe medicines off-label, i.e. for a different purpose than the ones they were usually approved. Some doctors did exactly that during the COVID-19 pandemic, prescribing ivermectin against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

The FDA then ramped up its anti-ivermectin campaign  leading to Bowden, Marik and co-plaintiff Dr. Robert Apter taking the regulator to court in 2022. According to the plaintiffs' lawsuit, they suffered repercussions after prescribing ivermectin to patients with COVID-19 because of the FDA's campaign to smear the antiviral drug.

U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown of the District Court for the Southern District of Texas dismissed the case in the same year it was filed. But a three-judge panel at the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals overturned Brown's decision in 2023. The appeals court ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, explaining that the FDA wasn't authorized under existing law to give medical advice.

Visit FDA.news for more stories about the regulator.

Watch the Swedish Rebel discuss ivermectin, the "wonder medicine" Big Pharma hates.

This video is from the Swedish Rebel channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Comprehensive review highlights key adverse events linked to COVID-19 vaccines.

FDA now admits doctors can prescribe IVERMECTIN to treat COVID-19.

WHY ONLY NOW? FDA rules that doctors can now prescribe ivermectin for COVID-19.

People who were given ivermectin for COVID-19 recovered significantly faster than others, study shows.

Dr. Bowden: Pharmacists still refusing to fill ivermectin prescriptions for COVID-19 despite FDA backpedaling.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

Brighteon.com
Nearly 20 years of MASSIVE federal spending fails to curb rising homelessness in Washington state

Federal spending data and other reports indicate that the number of people living on the streets of Washington state has soared by 20 percent from 2007 to 2023 despite the state having received over $200 million in federal tax dollars to help it combat homelessness.

A breakdown of federal allocations reveals that federal agencies like the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Health and Human Services have spent hundreds of millions of dollars since 2007 on grants to third parties whose interests were aligned with the goal of mitigating the homelessness situation in Washington.

However, the financial influx has not translated into a decrease in homelessness.

Instead, the homeless population in Washington grew by about 20 percent between 2007 and 2023. By the end of last year, there were an estimated 20,036 individuals without permanent shelter.

Washington ranked third in the raw increase in its homeless population between 2007 and 2023, trailing California and New York. Even during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, when federal spending escalated, homelessness in Washington saw a significant uptick, with a 15.6 percent increase between 2020 and 2022. (Related: HOMELESSNESS in the U.S. reaches RECORD HIGH amid worsening economic downturn post-pandemic.)

The HUD report also disclosed that the VA alone has disbursed nearly $120 million to assist homeless veterans through third-party organizations, with a substantial portion allocated during the pandemic. Yet, Washington maintained the fifth-highest rate of veterans experiencing unsheltered homelessness as of 2023.

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Despite efforts to house 2,238 homeless veterans in the state, supported by approximately $15.6 million in grants and contracts, the crisis persists.

Furthermore, Washington struggles to provide temporary shelter to its homeless population, ranking ninth among individuals lacking access to temporary shelter.

Homelessness getting worse nationwide

The HUD blames rising rents, the conclusion of pandemic-era housing assistance and a shortage of shelter services, rather than the system not working well.

Washington ranks among the highest in the nation for homeless individuals lacking temporary shelter, despite over $130 million in HUD's emergency shelter grant program in Washington since 2007.

According to the HUD's 2023 Annual Homeless Assessment Report, over 653,000 individuals were experiencing homelessness in the country, marking a staggering 12 percent increase from 2022. The rise encompasses individuals living without shelter, in temporary housing and locations unfit for habitation, such as makeshift tents and vehicles. Notably, this surge represents the highest homeless population ever recorded since the federal government began collecting comprehensive data in 2007.

One of the most striking findings of the report is the significant uptick in the number of individuals becoming homeless for the first time since 2021.

Similarly, the end of pandemic-era housing assistance and protections has exacerbated the situation. Rising rents, combined with the cessation of aid programs, have pushed vulnerable populations onto the streets. This includes not only adults but also a significant number of unaccompanied homeless youths, whose numbers rose by 12.4 percent between 2022 and 2023.

Moreover, Gregg Colburn, an associate professor at the University of Washington and homelessness researcher, points out escalating housing costs, the expiration of pandemic-related aid programs and an influx of migrants and asylum-seekers requiring shelter services as contributing factors.

"You put that together, and you end up with a really troubling number," said Colburn.

Watch this video about illegals getting more support than the average citizens of America.

This video is from the Dr. William Mount channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

THE PRECIOUS ONES: Maine builds palace-like apartments for ILLEGALS using taxpayer money amid rising homelessness.

NBC News: Inflation and illegals to blame for HOMELESSNESS among LA students.

Poll shows 86% of Americans believe homelessness is a major problem in the U.S.

Large cities like Los Angeles and New York SUFFER as homelessness and illegal immigration crises collide.

NBC News: Inflation and illegals to blame for HOMELESSNESS among LA students.

Sources include:

YourNews.com

DailyCaller.com

SeattleTimes.com

Brighteon.com
Israels attempt to eradicate Hamas is only leading to even greater radicalization

When Israel first launched its response to the deadly Hamas attacks on its soil in October, their stated goal was to get rid of the terrorists and secure peace for the Israeli people. Many countries were initially very supportive of this effort  until it became clear that they didnt care who they had to kill in the process.

Now, with the body count of innocent Palestinians in Gaza climbing catastrophically and much of the Gaza Strip obliterated, they are actually inspiring even more of the type of anger and disillusionment toward them that they aimed to eliminate.

Last month, Israeli protesters gathered en masse to try to physically block aid that the Palestinian people desperately need from entering Gaza. Some of them drove several hours to try to stop medicine, food and fuel from making its way into the enclave, bypassing armed soldiers and concrete blocks. They succeeded in stopping the trucks that were waiting to cross, cutting innocent people off from a much-needed lifeline.

A survey carried out by Israels Channel 12 found that an unbelievable 72% of Israelis think Gaza should not get any aid as long as they are holding hostages, ignoring the fact that many of the people who need this aid the most have nothing to do with taking or holding hostages.

This is exactly the type of behavior that radicalizes people. Those who have no hope and nothing to lose are highly vulnerable to being recruited by terrorist groups like Hamas. With more than 30,000 deaths in Gaza reported so far, thousands of young Palestinians are finding themselves without homes or families and with little to live for.

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.

Experts warned more Palestinians would seek revenge

As the death toll started soaring in November, a senior associate fellow for the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, H.A. Hellyer, warned: The cycle of radicalization cannot be thwarted by operations like the one Israel is carrying out, which only makes the cycle deeper, wider and uglier.

Not only could they end up creating Hamas 2.0, he cautioned, but they could inspire violence from another group that hasnt made a name for itself yet.

Palestinian politician Hanan Ashrawi agreed, saying: Youre going to radicalize more people. And youre not only going to increase the trauma  youre going to increase the demand for revenge.

In fact, the anger toward Israel is extending far beyond the Gaza Strip. In a rant about the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC)s request for Congress to give another $14 billion to Israel, Ana Kasparian of The Young Turk pressed Americans on whether they accept this use of taxpayer money.

After calling AIPAC evil, she said: Are you okay with a lobbying group representing the best interests of a foreign government telling you [that] you need to bust your ass every day, work a job that you likely hate, and have a portion of your earnings taken from you by our federal government and funneled to the Israeli government so they can commit atrocities in the Gaza Strip?"

Prolonged humanitarian crisis in Gaza is turning the world against Israel

How are people supposed to react when people like Israeli politician Moshe Feiglin openly called for leveling Gaza, saying: Gaza needs to turn to Dresden. Annihilate Gaza now! What about when Deputy Knesset speaker Nissim Vaturi wrote on X that the common goal of Israelis is erasing the Gaza Strip from the face of the earth? And lets not forget Israeli Heritage Minister Amichay Eliyahu, who suggested Israel drop a nuclear bomb on the Gaza Strip.

As Israels attacks on Gaza continue, living conditions for Palestinians continue to get worse. A newly released report indicates that 70 percent of the population of northern Gaza is dealing with catastrophic levels of hunger. With half of the Strips population overall on the brink of starvation, there are warnings of a major acceleration of death and malnutrition.

People are scavenging, drinking polluted water, and eating grass just to survive, and Israel is keeping life-saving aid from making its way to the people. Footage of the ongoing suffering and humanitarian crisis there is only serving to turn what little support Israel had left around the world against it for good.

Sources for this article include:

InformationLiberation.com

France24.com

NBCNews.com

CNN.com
Despite its own torture campaigns, Israel pressures U.S. Congress to stop funding UNRWA over allegations aid group harbors Hamas

As more than two million Palestinians face famine and starvation as a result of Israel's war on Gaza, the Zionist-controlled United States Congress has stripped all UNRWA funding through next year.

In their newest multi-trillion-dollar funding bill, U.S. lawmakers voted to end all funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees through 2025, even as it continues giving Israel its annual $3.8 billion welfare check, compliments of U.S. taxpayers.

The funding bill, which was passed in the 11th hour to avert yet another federal government shutdown, contains a longstanding provision that conditions aid to the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority (PA) only if:

"... the Palestinians initiate an International Criminal Court (ICC) judicially authorized investigation, or actively supports such an investigation, that subjects Israeli nationals to an investigation for alleged crimes against Palestinians."

President Joe Biden promised to sign the bill, and did just that, with the conditions intact.

"The historic ban on U.S. funding to UNRWA that passed today with overwhelming bipartisan support demonstrates what we knew all along: UNRWA is part of the problem and cannot be part of the solution," celebrated Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz on X.

"UNRWA will not be a part of Gaza's landscape in the aftermath of Hamas. Thousands of UNRWA employees are involved in Hamas terror activities, and their facilities were used for terrorist purposes."

(Related: Anyone who does not support Israel's genocide in Gaza is "antisemitic," according to Benjamin Netanyahu.)

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.

Israel's torture campaigns

Back in January, Tel Aviv launched a massive smear campaign against UNRWA, accusing its members of having involvement in the October 7 Hamas attack, which as we now know was wildly overblown with Israeli propaganda about "babies in ovens" and other made-up events.

Despite presenting no evidence to support its claims against UNRWA, Israel successfully lobbied the U.S. Congress to omit all UNRWA funding from the funding bill while continuing to send billions in aid to Israel every year.

The same day Tel Aviv launched its smear campaign, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that Israel is plausibly committing genocide in Gaza, where 30,000-plus innocent civilians, including women and children, have been slaughtered by Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

While some UNRWA members did end up confessing to having "Hamas ties," they only did this because they were being tortured by Israel with severe beatings, waterboarding, the use of attack dogs and threats of harm made to family members, a thorough internal investigation found.

Israel also set up hundreds of fake social media accounts to amplify its false claims against UNRWA to make it seem like there are many different sources in agreement with its Hamas ties.

Fake Reporter researchers uncovered Israel's deceptive social media scheme, identifying numerous fake "news sites" that were set up by the Zionist state specifically to smear UNRWA prior to getting it defunded.

These same fake "news sites" copied both each other and "real" news sites such as CNN, The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, The Jerusalem Post and The Times of Israel, all of which promote Israel's version of what happened on October 7.

The fake "news sites" set up by Tel Aviv aggressively promoted Israel's propaganda as it was being reported by the aforementioned "real" news sites, creating an illusion of widespread support for the claims of Hamas ties at UNRWA.

Just hours before Washington moved to cut all aid to UNRWA, European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Josep Borrell announced the resumption of funding for UNRWA from other Western countries including Finland and Canada.

The latest news about the Middle East can be found at Prophecy.news.

Sources for this article include:

TheCradle.co

NaturalNews.com
KENNEDY SYNDROME: Macron fears he could be assassinated like JFK

French President Emmanuel Macron is reportedly worried that he could be assassinated by the Russians.

Russia Today (RT) reported on this revelation, citing a separate piece by the Marianne magazine. The weekly news magazine cited multiple sources  including some from the French Ministry of the Interior (MDI). The magazine also reached out to tipsters within the French leader's security detail, as well as Macron's erstwhile bodyguard Alexandre Benalla.

"At home, there is the fear of 'Kennedy syndrome,' that he will end up assassinated," Benalla said, alluding to the late U.S. President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated while riding in a presidential motorcade through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas, in 1963.

According to Benalla, Macron  who was first elected in 2017  has always been concerned with his personal security. The French president had bolstered the ranks of his security detail right after assuming office. "As soon as we arrived at the Elysee [Palace], the staff responsible for the president's security were immediately doubled compared to those responsible for that of [Macron's predecessor] Francois Hollande," the ex-bodyguard recounted.

"There are two reasons for this. First, Macron makes contact within a slap range. Then, from the beginning, it creates a form of antipathy. It electrifies," Benalla said.

During his tenure as a member of Macron's security team, Benalla became embroiled in multiple scandals. During the Yellow Vest protests that began in 2018, he was captured beating up demonstrators alongside riot police. "The protests, which have plagued Macron's presidency throughout his first term and beyond, have left a dent," RT reported.

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.

Medvedev denounces Macron as a COWARD

"The situation has deteriorated further as a result of Macron's determination to present himself as a hawk on the conflict between Moscow and Kyiv," the Russian outlet continued. An anonymous source "at the heart" of Macron's security detail said his security team has been working in "red" mode since at least last summer.

"Recently, he is provoking so much that he is afraid," the source told Marianne. "Since last summer, he has taken on some big guys to accompany him. They are more visible and also more effective in intervening in the event of a crowd movement."

According to the magazine, while Macron doesn't fear angry citizens, he fears the alleged "Russian threat." While he has repeatedly voiced concerns over "state-level" threats emanating from abroad in public, the French leader is pointing his fingers solely at Moscow as the source of such threats. In fact, Macron has even established a special task force to tackle it, according to a government source.

"Macron is totally freaked out by the Russians," said a senior official with the MDI. "One morning, he arrived at the intelligence services and requested the creation of a special task force on Russian interference overnight. Colleagues have to hold a meeting daily, [and] it doesn't excite them much." (Related: Leaked reports show Ukraine LOSING war against Russia, Macron "panicked.")

For all his tough talk of insinuating a potential troop deployment in Ukraine, Macron's actions behind closed doors serve as a stark contrast. This led former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to mock the French leader's cowardice, which he did prior. The Russian official's taunt followed Macron's third instance of delaying a visit to the Ukrainian capital Kyiv.

Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's National Security Council, posted in French on X: "Macron preparing to visit Kyiv? But he's a zoological coward." He also recommended that the French president's office pack "several changes of underwear" and prepare for a "strong stink."

Head over to BigGovernment.news for similar stories.

Watch InfoWars founder Alex Jones break down Macron's psy-op about North Atlantic Treaty Organization Troops moving into Ukraine.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Macron doubles down on possibility of deploying NATO troops to Ukraine.

Ukraine must "prepare for the worst," warns Frances Macron after failed talk with Putin.

Macron, who already has no credibility, warns a Russian victory "will reduce Europe's credibility to ZERO."

Sources include:

RT.com

NewsRescue.com

Brighteon.com
Disgraced former RNC Chair Ronna Romney-McDaniel takes job as NBC News talking head

Former Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna Romney-McDaniel has joined NBC News, and will begin contributing as an on-air talking head to all shows on the NBC News and MSNBC platforms.

(Article by Shane Trejo republished from BigLeaguePolitics.com)

It couldnt be a more important moment to have a voice like Ronnas on the team, NBC News political chief Carrie Budoff Brown stated in a memo published by The New York Times, adding that Romney-McDaniel will provide an insiders perspective on national politics and the future of the Republican Party.

Big League Politics reported about Romney-McDaniels delusional failed leadership as RNC Chairwoman, which culminated in loss after loss as Republicans were ill-prepared to deal with the predictable onslaught of Democrat voter fraud:

After a disastrous midterm election, Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, the niece of despised RINO Mitt Romney, is refusing to take any accountability for her failures.

McDaniel appeared on Fox News where she defended the actions of the RNC and actually claimed that the midterms were a success because the Republicans narrowly retook Congress.

We build the infrastructure. We do the voter registration, uhh, we are doing community centers and outreach. We build a road that the candidates drive on. We put the candidates in a position to win, she said.

I think, with the RNCs record this cycle of turning out more than 4 million more Republicans, of winning statewide in almost every battleground state proves that the turnout worked. We just have to understand why one Republican won in a state and one didnt, and thats going to come down to messaging, McDaniel continued.

But I think from an RNC standpoint, we flipped the House and our ground game worked, she added...

In a Politico article titled The Inside Story of Michigans Fake Voter Fraud Scandal, Tim Albert reported that McDaniel has privately expressed her doubts about any scalable voter fraud in Michigan, but that she still needs to demonstrate a willingness to fight for the president.

McDaniel had previously received the presidents endorsement to remain RNC chair, and as of now she has no serious challengers. But it is possible that a challenger will arise, such as Cory Gardner, a Republican senator from Colorado defeated on November 3 by Democrat John Hickenlooper. He is seen as part of the GOP establishment and, if he were to run, could force McDaniel to fully embrace her pre-Trump establishment image once again.

It should come as no surprise that Romney-McDaniel sold out to the fake news media now that she is a pariah in MAGA world. She never had any principles to begin with and was never anything more than a clueless figurehead for the globalists.

Read more at: BigLeaguePolitics.com
War correspondent Michael Yon warns Russian style terror attacks coming to America

(Article by Sean Miller republished from InfoWars.com)

The sleeper cells are here, what we just saw in Russia is a prelude, Jones said.

Yon agreed, adding that it will get extremely bloody, and went on to discuss the factors involved in creating this storm of violent illegal aliens.

Insofar as the death-jabs go plus the clear famines that will be unfolding over time, theres a long flash-to-bang on these famines, but theyre clearly coming, and that drives that human-osmotic-pressure, Yon said. This is going to be an incredible war the likes of which humanity has never seen.

Vandersteel discussed the brigades of Chinese soldiers who are currently invading the U.S. through the open border as well as weapons caches stashed around the country.

General Flynn has talked about how the Chinese right now have seven divisions of military age men in this country, she said. we have containers stashed around the country with blue helmets, U.N. uniforms and then of course any other arsenal.

Read more at: InfoWars.com
Moscow terrorist attack: A declaration of war by the West against Russia

However, the post below reveals who actually ordered that terrorist attack from the highest echelons of the U.S. Federal Government.

(Article republished from StateOfTheNation.co)

Basically, what the US State Department did with this purposefully timed, false flag, mass casualty event was send a number of HUGE messages to the Kremlin.

First, it was meant to be a malevolent election victory present from the United States to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Second, it was perpetrated with such cold calculation and brutal efficiency to demonstrate to the Russian people that they are no longer safe under a Putin presidency.

Third, this barbaric mass murder was designed as a revenge act for the tremendous battlefield losses that the Ukraine has continually sustained by Russias overwhelming military power.

Fourth, this brazen and desperate move in the Russian capital was intended to show that even the Kremlin is no longer safe from the workings of the US-UK-UA-EU-NATO Terror Group which also includes Israels MOSSAD.

Fifth, this was a loud and clear Declaration of War on Russia by the Zio-Anglo-American Axis, coming as it did in the wake of France saying they they would not rule out putting boots on the ground in Ukraine.

Sixth, there is always a triggering cause for the most monumental of terrorist operations which are fastidiously planned out to both stun the targeted nation as they shock the whole world. In this case, as in almost every case, it is the Zionist State of Israel that issued the original order: See: Russia Will Pay a High Price for Killing Israelis  Amir Weitmann  as well as calculated all the details of this black op as follows:

Zionists Are Behind Moscow Terror Attack

There is also a seventh, eighth, ninth, etc. which will be covered in a future post.

The global geopolitical chessboard is currently being played out on many levels, some call it 5D chess, but in reality its beyond 12D. In point of fact, what the whole world is now witnessing is the final battle between the forces of light and the powers of darkness.

However, if there is one uncommon explanation which lays bare whats really going on between Russia and Ukraine (and the West), the following expose does:

THE FINAL WORLD WAR: Khazarians vs. the Rus People

Read more at: StateOfTheNation.co
Spanish newspaper claims NATO troops are ACTIVE in Ukraine

A Spanish newspaper has claimed that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) troops now have their boots on the ground in Ukraine

The March 18 report by Cristian Segura of the El Pais newspaper put forward this claim. However, it took much pains to clarify that NATO personnel are in Ukraine not for combat purposes. Rather, they are reportedly in Ukrainian territory for "arms control, intelligence operations and military training."

According to Segura, French President Emmanuel Macron "broke the taboo" in February when he insinuated the possibility of NATO troops fighting Russia in Ukraine. The El Pais journalist continued that Macron's words "also served to confirm that there are already military personnel from NATO countries on Ukrainian soil, albeit without taking an active role in combat operations." (Related: Macron doubles down on possibility of deploying NATO troops to Ukraine.)

"NATO soldiers are already present in Ukraine, and I would like to thank the ambassadors of those countries who have taken the risk," Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski told members of the press on March 8. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz previously disclosed in late February that British and French military personnel are in Ukraine.

Even Gen. Pat Ryder, spokesman for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), mentioned in October 2022 that Washington had military representatives stationed in Ukraine. These representatives, he added, were mandated to monitor the supply of armaments. Confidential DoD documents leaked in April 2023 also mentioned that five NATO member nations  the U.S., the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France and Lithuania  had around 100 special forces personnel at their embassies in Ukraine.

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.

The El Pais article also mentioned, citing multiple military sources from both Ukraine and the European Union, that there are informants on the ground. "Part of these unofficial informants are retired foreign military personnel fighting as volunteers in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU)," Segura noted.

These informants purportedly served three purposes  "to provide knowledge about the situation on the front, to identify the effectiveness of the weapons supplied and possible problems in their use  [and] to detect possible cases of corruption concerning the aid provided."

Putin: Foreign troops dying from Russian attacks "in large numbers"

Meanwhile, Czech President Petr Pavel  a former chairman of NATO's military committee from 2015 to 2018  said during a March 10 interview that the alliance's soldiers have been present in Ukraine for more than a decade. He clarified, however, that NATO troops weren't in Ukraine for combat purposes but to serve as instructors for the AFU.

"While a handful of Western leaders have backed Macron's position that deployments to aid Kyiv in the conflict with Russia cannot be ruled out, numerous officials  including NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg  have dismissed the idea," El Pais continued.

The Czech president referred to the AFU's Yavoriv military base near the Polish border, where an agreement between NATO and Ukraine allowed 1,000 soldiers from 15 countries to pass through. Pavel said military training programs on Ukrainian soil were active when Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and during the war that followed.

When the Russia-Ukraine war began in February 2022, the Yavoriv base was shelled a month after in March 2022. According to Kyiv, 61 soldiers lost their lives during that shelling. In contrast, Moscow reported 180 casualties  adding that most of them were foreign soldiers.

Russian President Vladimir Putin himself addressed the matter on March 17 following his landslide win in Russia's presidential election. According to the five-term president, Moscow is well aware of calls in the U.S.-led military bloc to potentially deploy troops to Ukraine.

"We hear both French and English speech there," Putin said. "There is nothing good in this, first of all for them because they die there and in large numbers."

"Moscow perceives the Ukraine conflict as a U.S.-led proxy war against Russia, in which Ukrainians serve as 'cannon fodder' for Western interests. It considers foreigners fighting for Kyiv as 'mercenaries' who are doing the bidding of Western governments," Russia Today noted.

"Senior Russian officials have suggested that more complex weapon systems provided to Kyiv are highly likely operated by NATO staff, as there was not sufficient time to train Ukrainians on how to handle them."

Head over to WWIII.news for similar stories.

Watch this clip from "TruNews" about French President Emmanuel Macron doubling down on possible troop deployments to Ukraine.

This video is from the TruNews channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

U.K. deploys troops to NATO military drills while ramping up aid to Ukraine.

Slovakia's PM reveals NATO, EU states still considering sending troops to Ukraine.

Western special forces are UNOFFICIALLY in Ukraine to fight Russia as WWIII looms.

Sources include:

SHTFPlan.com

English.ElPais.com

RT.com

Brighteon.com
Baltimore bridge collapse due to ship strike will have sweeping economic repercussions

A major four-lane bridge in Baltimore has collapsed after being struck by a large ship in what is being described as a developing mass casualty event.

The incident, which took place at around 1:30 AM, caused several sections of the Francis Scott Key bridge to fall into the Patapsco River. Multiple vehicles were crossing the bridge at the time and fell 55 meters into the water.

A crew of eight construction workers was repairing potholes on the bridge at the time, and six of them are believed to be among those missing; two workers were pulled from the water and one is currently in critical condition.

Authorities are working hard to rescue people from the water, which is roughly 50 feet deep. Sonar has detected vehicles in the water, but it is not known exactly how many people may be in the river. They are facing a number of challenges, including dangerous rip currents, tidal flow, coastal flood advisories and cold water temperatures.

Baltimores Police Commissioner, Richard Worley, has said they are treating it as an accident and there are currently no indications the act was intentional. However, the White House is monitoring events closely.

Vessel lost power and issued a mayday just moments before strike

The vessel involved in the incident is a Singapore-flagged container ship that was chartered by the shipping giant Maersk. No one on board the ship was injured, and all crew members have been accounted for. The same vessel was involved in a collision with a stone wall at a dock in Antwerp, Belgium, in 2016.

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.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said that the crew on the ship lost power shortly before the disaster and issued a mayday just moments before it struck the bridge. This enabled authorities to stop additional traffic from entering the bridge, limiting the number of vehicles present when the bridge collapsed.

The port of Baltimore is one of the countrys biggest shipping hubs. The bridge, which opened in 1977, is the outermost crossing for Baltimore harbor and is used by up to 35,000 people every day.

The cargo ship can be seen in video footage colliding with one of the bridges pillar's causing, causing it to snap into pieces and tumble into the river below it. Dr. Ron Harichandran, a civil engineer who serves as the dean of the University of New Havens Tagliatela College of Engineering, said that he is not surprised the bridge fell considering the size of the tanker ship and its height. He noted that it may not have collapsed completely if the ship had struck between the piers because of the redundancy designed into bridges. However, with one of its main support structures hit, it was unlikely to remain standing.

An ironworker who helped build the bridge, John Zimmerman, told CNN he was shocked that the bridge went down. It looks like it hit the only spot it could have hit to take the whole thing down. It hit at probably the weakest part of the bridge, he said.

Bridges collapse will have major economic repercussions

The bridges collapse is expected to cause major transportation disruptions for months or even years along the East Coast, according to Maryland officials, who note that it will affect not only ship traffic at the port but also cargo and commuter traffic around the city.

The port is considered a major route for both shipping containers and cruise liners and enjoys a favorable position closer to the Midwest than other ports on the East Coast. It is particularly popular for car shipments and is the biggest American port by volume for farm and construction machinery, along with agricultural products.

State Senator Johnny Ray Salling told the AP: Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

CNN.com
North Carolina Rep. Greg Murphy introduces bill that seeks to ban medical schools with DEI PROGRAMS from receiving federal funds

Rep. Greg Murphy (R-NC) has introduced a bill in the House of Representatives that would ban medical schools with diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs or related policies from receiving federal funding

The bill, titled the "Embracing anti-Discrimination, Unbiased Curricula and Advancing Truth in Education (EDUCATE) Act," outlines that graduate medical schools at institutions of higher education would be ineligible for any form of federal financial assistance if they compel students to adhere to specific beliefs.

The bill defines some of these beliefs as including claims of the inherent superiority or inferiority of specific races, religions or one of the sexes, as well as claims that certain people are members of "oppressed" or "oppressor" groups based on their race, color religion, sex, ethnicity or national origin.

Moreover, the bill explicitly prohibits teachings that portray "America is systemically, structurally, or institutionally racist, or that racism is weaved into the 'ordinary business of society,' or that America is an oppressive nation," among other things. The EDUCATE Act's scope extends to accrediting agencies. (Related: Texas governor signs bill ordering the CLOSURE of DEI offices across state-funded universities.)

The bill still allows medical schools to provide instruction on medical conditions or needs based on a person's gender, race, or other characteristics. It also permits collecting and maintaining students' demographic data for informational purposes.

When he proposed the act, Murphy, a licensed physician himself, explained the necessity of upholding academic excellence to eliminate discriminatory practices within medical education.

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"American medical schools are the best in the world and no place for discrimination," said Murphy. "The EDUCATE Act compels medical schools and accrediting agencies to uphold colorblind admissions processes and prohibits the coercion of students who hold certain political opinions."

"Diversity strengthens medicine, but not if its achieved through exclusionary practices," he added. "Medicine is about serving others and doing the best job possible in every circumstance. We cannot afford to sacrifice the excellence and quality of medical education at the hands of prejudice and divisive ideology."

Republicans and medical professionals urge medical schools to combat "woke activism" in healthcare

The bill has garnered support from medical professionals, including Stanley Goldfarb, a nephrologist and chairman of Do No Harm, an association of medical professionals dedicated to combating the infiltration of "woke activism" in healthcare.

"Allowing rebranded race-based discrimination to infiltrate medical education is dangerous for future doctors and patients alike," Goldfarb said. "I have witnessed firsthand the alarming rate at which DEI ideology has spread through medical schools across the country."

"If we fail to stop it, we risk a generation of physicians ill-equipped to meet the needs of their patients," he added. "Do No Harm applauds Congressman Murphy for taking this critical first step to end harmful DEI practices and make academic excellence the priority for medical schools once again."

Bill co-sponsor Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) urged medical schools to refocus their training away from "radical policies" that foster division and exclusion.

"Let's get back to training the future medical professionals, away from radical policies that, despite their names, divide and exclude," said Miller-Meeks.

Visit PublicEducation.news for more stories about DEI programs in public universities and colleges.

Watch this video discussing a move by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to block DEI programs in state colleges and universities in the Sunshine State.

This video is from THE HEALTHY AMERICAN channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

White student denied access to mental health care at Florida university because he wasn't a 'person of color'.

Katie Petrick and David Fiorazo laud Gov. Ron DeSantis for demanding information on diversity initiatives in Florida's higher education system.

More universities are moving to gradeless system for "diversity," ensuring more students will fail in real life.

Universities now demanding total obedience to transgenderism lunacy for businesses before they are allowed to operate on campus... intellectual DIVERSITY is outlawed.

"Woke" public schools increasingly dumping tests and teaching children to hate whites in the name of pursuing "diversity" and "equity."

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

SpectrumLocalNews.com

Brighteon.com
Declaring Christ as King is antisemitic, says Jewish Daily Wire host Andrew Klavan  Jews are Gods chosen people that are racially superior to mere Christians

's Andrew Klavan is going to bat for company founder Ben Shapiro, having recently stated on his show that people who believe "Christ is King" and declare that to Shapiro, an unbelieving Jew, are "antisemitic."

Klavan, a Jewish man himself who says he was "baptized by a priest" and became a Christian, is taking aim in the below clip at critics of Shapiro who try to tell The Daily Wire editor-in-chief and editor emeritus that he must believe in Christ as King in order to be saved.

"I'm proud of my race," Klavan said about how he responded to the priest who baptized him after the priest said that Christians will never accept Klavan because of his Jewish ancestry.

"It's a great race. It's done many great things  including write the Bible," Klavan continues, suggesting that the Bible was written not by God-inspired men, both Jew and gentile, but by the "Jewish race."

Jewish Daily Wire host Andrew Klavan says Christ is King is an anti-Semitic dogwhistle, Jews are Gods chosen people. pic.twitter.com/QpTHNASnlm  Dr. Anastasia Maria Loupis (@DrLoupis) March 24, 2024

(Related: Remember last fall when Ben Shapiro had a meltdown after employee Candace Owens, a Christian, tweeted New Testament passages of scripture that defy Shapiro's pro-Zionist viewpoints about Israel's war on Gaza?)

There's NO access to God without Christ

Klavan says that all Christians except for those from "the Christ is King antisemitic crowd" have accepted him "with open arms." It is precisely those who try to tell Jews that they must be saved through Christ that Klavan apparently takes issue with, his apparent belief being that they are still "God's chosen" even without Christ.

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.

"Christ is the king, and one day every knee will bow and recognize this  because he's not just my king, he's the king of the universe," Klavan says.

"But when you use that phrase to mean that God has abandoned his chosen people, the Jews, through whom he came into this world incarnate, and that he's broken his promises, his covenant with the Jews, you are quoting Scripture like Satan does in the Bible," Klavan added. "You are quoting Scripture to your purposes and that, to me, is specifically wicked."

So far, you might be thinking that Klavan's viewpoints are somewhat reasonable, but it is right after this in the segment that Klavan went off the rails to suggest that it is not okay to tell Shapiro, an unbelieving Jew, that he must believe in Christ because Shapiro supposedly still worships the same God.

"When you spit that phrase at Ben Shapiro, my friend Ben Shapiro  Life is not a game show where you guess the name of God and you get to go to heaven  honk, yes the name is Jesus," Klavan mocks.

"I look at Ben's life and I think, if Ben were to embrace Jesus Christ, it would cause devastation to his family, to the people who love him, to the people who listen to him, to his position in the world. I just have this feeling that God has put this guy where he wants him to do what he wants him to do."

In other words, Klavan apparently believes that Shapiro has found his own way to God through something other than Christ and that this is okay because "God hasn't abandoned his people."

Perhaps Klavan missed John 14:6 when he "converted" to Christianity:

"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'"

The latest news about Zionism can be found at Antichrist.news.

Sources for this article include:

Twitter.com

NaturalNews.com

BlueLetterBible.org
Shocking video reveals how Louis Farrakhan was RIGHT about vaccine dangers, while ultra-Zionist supremacist Ben Shapiro continued to push deadly vaccines

The Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "pandemic" brought out the best and worst in people, revealing their true colors. The below video highlights this point marvelously by showing the true ugliness of ultra-Zionist supremacist Ben Shapiro ofin comparison to Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan.

The Ben Shapiro vs. Louis Farrakhan edit of Covid vaccine advice is one of the most revealing videos ever. pic.twitter.com/6mWoTxAwgC  An0maly (@LegendaryEnergy) March 24, 2024

As you will see, the clip opens with conservative fast-talker Ben Shapiro complaining about the high prevalence of "vaccine hesitancy" during the "pandemic," especially among Black and Hispanic communities.

"We have seen a tremendous amount of vaccine hesitancy, unfortunately, in the Black and Hispanic community," Shapiro whines.

The clip then shifts over to Farrakhan slowly and calmly warning his followers  and everyone, really  not to take COVID injections under any circumstances.

"If they come up with a vaccine, be careful," Farrakhan says in the clip, dated July 4, 2020, about five months before the administration of former President Donald Trump would officially launch Operation Warp Speed. "Don't let them vaccinate you, with their history of treachery through vaccines."

(Related: Ben Shapiro recently fired Candace Owens from The Daily Wire after previously attacking her for expressing a Christ-like response to the Hamas attack as opposed to the antichrist one Shapiro embraces and pushes.)

Ben Shapiro says Louis Farrakhan should be "ripped apart"

The clip goes back again to Shapiro in his iconic annoying voice complaining about "Black America" and its propensity towards vaccine hesitancy, calling it "a real problem" before the clip shifts back to Farrakhan.

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"They are making money now, plotting to give seven billion, 500 million people a vaccination," Farrakhan said. "Dr. [Anthony] Fauci, Bill Gates and Melinda, you want to depopulate the earth. What the hell gives you that right?"

To this, Shapiro whined and complained about Farrakhan, blabbing that Farrakhan is "literally" telling his millions of followers that the COVID "vaccine" is a "vial of death."

"Some of these so-called 'vaccines,' it's the nanoparticles that men like Dr. Fauci have proprietary knowledge of that allows them to get a patent for their vial of death," said Farrakhan.

Shapiro was so upset at the time about Farrakhan's remarks that he called for Farrakhan to be "ripped apart," complaining that the media should have been doing this all along, in his opinion, to make Farrakhan look bad.

"Ben's just mad Farrakhan is better than him at the violin," someone wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "Look it up. It's a fact."

Another shared the following video about Shapiro's alleged ties to the CIA:

Ben Shapiro and his links to the CIA. ? @davincentjames pic.twitter.com/3T1icwCfv4  Shadow of Ezra (@ShadowofEzra) December 10, 2023

It should be noted that after Americans finally learned the ugly truth about COVID injections, Shapiro switched his tune and suddenly started pretending as though he never pushed them.

"Ben Shapiro is wrong about everything when it matters," another person on X wrote.

"Who listens to Ben Shapiro in 2024? Hardcore RINOs? He's irrelevant," said another.

"Louis Farrakhan was obviously right, and Ben Shapiro was pushing the injection from day one," wrote another. "This should tell his followers a lot about him. He kept touting his hack MD wife as some authority to follow on the issue."

"It's so difficult to listen to the manlet voice for even a few seconds," joked another about Shapiro's awful voice and cadence when speaking at warp speed.

More of the latest news about the dangers and ineffectiveness of vaccines can be found at ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

Twitter.com 1

Twitter.com 2

Twitter.com 3

NaturalNews.com
SURVEY: Majority of American teenagers feel happy and peaceful without smartphones

A recent Pew Research Center survey reveals that a majority of American teenagers find happiness and peace when they are not tethered to their smartphones

The study, conducted among 1,453 teenagers ages 13 to 17, found that 74 percent of respondents say they feel happy when they have no smartphones on hand, while 72 percent say they feel peaceful when disconnected from their devices.

According to the Pew Research Center data, 95 percent of teens either own a smartphone or have access to one, with most using the internet daily. In other words, the majority of American teenagers have already built their connections with their smartphones  thanks to the popularity of social media platforms and mobile games. (Related: Meta intentionally got children and teens ADDICTED to social media to exploit them for profit.)

The survey also reveals the prevalence of negative emotions associated with smartphone separation. For instance, a notable 44 percent of teens say they feel anxious when they are without their phones, while 40 percent say they feel upset and 30 percent say they feel lonely.

Several studies claim that these negative emotions are associated with problematic smartphone use.

A recent study published in Computers in Human Behavior has found that problematic smartphone use can cause cognitive impairments, poor sleep quality and depression. The study authors noted that smartphone use only becomes problematic when it starts to interfere with daily life.

Meanwhile, in an article published in the EXCLI Journal, Sehar Shoukat from the California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology explained that whenever a habit, such as checking or being active on social media, turns into an obligation, it quickly becomes an addiction.

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.

Shoukat further explained that people who are "mobile addicted" are unable to cut back on their cell phone usage, often use their phones as a solution to boredom, feel anxious when separated from smartphones and might even get depressed. Basically, too much smartphone use can really stress out teenagers and affect how they feel and behave.

The study also shows that digital disengagement can bring a sense of relief and contentment and, at the same time, offer tranquility and mental relaxation among teenagers.

UNESCO does not support "smartphone use justification" among teenagers

Despite the positive sentiments associated with going phone-free, the study reveals that the majority of teens have not curbed their phone or social media usage. Instead, they try to justify the benefits of having a smartphone for people their age.

For instance, approximately 70 percent of respondents believe that smartphones provide more benefits than harm for people their age, while 30 percent hold the opposite view. Similarly, 69 percent of respondents say that smartphones make it easier to pursue hobbies and interests, while 65 percent say it helps them to be creative and 45 percent believe these devices enhance academic performance.

However, according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), there is significant evidence that excessive smartphone use in school-age children is linked to reduced educational performance and that higher levels of screen time have had negative effects on the emotional stability of children.

"The digital revolution holds immeasurable potential but just as warnings have been voiced for how it should be regulated in society, similar attention must be paid to the way it is used in education," said UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay. "Its use must be for enhanced learning experiences and for the well-being of students and teachers, not to their detriment. Keep the needs of the learner first and support teachers. Online connections are no substitute for human interaction."

Watch the video below to learn how smartphones can cause addiction, especially in children.

This video is from the Kla.TV - English channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

How smartphone addiction affects brain function and mental health.

Study links smartphone use to heart attack and stroke risk.

Less drama and fewer distractions: Minnesota middle school students happier after smartphone ban.

British Education chief wants to BAN students from using phones in schools.

Parents and school officials of small Irish town unite to BAN SMARTPHONES for children as old as 13.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

TheHill.com

ScienceDirect.com

TheGuardian.com

Brighteon.com
Putin successfully using GOLD to defeat international sanctions on Russia

Since the Western world implemented widespread sanctions against Russia over its special military operation in Ukraine in early 2022, President Vladimir Putin's strategy for evading economic disaster has relied on linking the ruble's value to gold , sparking both intrigue and concern globally.

Despite facing an onslaught of over 16,000 sanctions, targeting everything from Russian trade, finance and even technology, Putin's Russia has exhibited resilience, with the economy showing signs of growth and the military apparatus expanding. This economic and military resilience has confounded many observers, especially given the severity of the sanctions imposed.

One notable consequence of the sanctions is the isolation of sanctioned individuals and entities from the global financial system, including multiple Russian billionaires and oligarchs.

Gold's role in mitigating the impact of sanctions on Russia is multifaceted. By tying the ruble's value to gold, Russia aims to establish a stable alternative currency and protect against currency devaluation. (Related: Gold industry insider Chris Olson discusses the RISE in gold and silver prices with Mike Adams.)

Russia's status as the world's second-largest producer of gold has been pivotal in this strategy. With significant annual production and predictions of continued growth, Russia is well-positioned to leverage its gold reserves to navigate geopolitical challenges.

However, the success of Putin's gold strategy hinges on various factors, including global gold prices and the willingness of consumers and investors to embrace gold's status as a safe haven asset.

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.

Additionally, the effectiveness of sanctions in disrupting Russia's gold trade remains a point of contention. Western nations are considering coordinated efforts to restrict the flow of gold into and out of the Russian Federation, particularly by targeting key buyers such as Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates.

Western nations are also considering targeting India, China and several other key nations that have played a significant role in keeping trade and financial connections with Russia open, mitigating the impact of Western sanctions, especially by continuing to purchase Russian energy resources at competitive prices.

Any efforts targeting third parties may not work, as India and China have emerged as the top buyers of Russian oil since 2022 and are unlikely to change course due to the beneficial trade deals Moscow has offered Beijing and New Delhi.

Furthermore, both countries have also stayed within the boundaries set by the Western bloc, demonstrating their strategic approach to balancing economic interests with their diplomatic ties with the West.

Putin wants gold to replace the U.S. dollar

Putin's ambitions extend far beyond the economic realm, as he envisions gold replacing the U.S. dollar as the primary global trade medium. However, the success of this vision hinges on increasing gold's value, a variable influenced by factors such as consumer demand and central bank policies.

In response to Putin's strategy, consumers and investors worldwide, particularly in North America, wield the potential to impact gold's market dynamics through their purchasing decisions. For instance, significant investments in gold by American consumers, facilitated by platforms like Costco, inadvertently contribute to Putin's agenda, particularly if the gold originates from Russian sources.

Counteracting Putin's gold strategy demands a multifaceted approach. It necessitates not only individual consumer choices but also coordinated efforts by major gold-producing nations and strategic policy adjustments. The challenge lies in diminishing gold's allure without destabilizing the global economy, given its integral role in financial markets and stability.

Understanding and disrupting the dynamics of the gold market may prove instrumental in undermining Russia's geopolitical ambitions and resilience against sanctions. This calls for a nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of international markets and the strategic deployment of measures aimed at curbing the influence of Russian gold on the global stage.

Watch this clip from Fox Business with North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and former Texas Gov. Rick Perry  both Republicans  discussing how President Joe Biden's sanctions against Russia are not working.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Medvedev slams Brussels over its demand that Russia return gold bullion to Romania.

Schizophrenic world order: The West is willing to destroy its financial system to punish Russia.

Yellen wants frozen Russian assets to be given to Ukraine  a move that could drive away nations from Western banks.

Russian central bank governor claims BRICS group has now surpassed G7 in aggregate GDP.

Sources include:

GreatGameIndia.com

TimesOfIndia.IndiaTimes.com

Brighteon.com
Taiwan admits U.S. troops are stationed on islands close to the Chinese mainland

Taiwan has officially confirmed the permanent presence of troops from the United States on Taiwanese-controlled islands off the coast of mainland China.

China has long been claiming democratically governed Taiwan as its territory, despite the strong objections of the island's people. Tensions over the status of Taiwan have skyrocketed in recent years, leaving Taipei with no choice but to respond to the consistent ramp-up of Chinese military activities near its territories. And one of its strategies is to seek help from its allies, particularly the United States.

In a statement, Taiwanese Minister of National Defense and retired general Chiu Kuo-cheng confirmed that the U.S. Army Special Forces, commonly known as the "Green Berets," are stationed at the bases of the Republic of China (ROC) Armed Forces' 101st Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion, known as the "Sea Dragon Frogmen" or just the "Frogmen."

The Frogmen is a special operations force of the ROC Army stationed in the outlying Taiwanese-governed island groups of Kinmen and Penghu. Kinmen is just three miles from the Chinese coastal city of Xiamen. The ROC Army has allowed the Green Berets to be permanently stationed at the Frogmen's bases to facilitate training programs for Taiwan's frontline defenders.

"This exchange is for mutual observation, to identify problems we have, figure out how to improve, and to recognize their strengths so we can learn from them. No matter the situation, there may be blind spots or shortcomings. So we need to communicate with our allies, whether it is a team, a group or a country. We can learn from each other to see what strengths we have. This is a fixed thing," Chiu explained. (Related: Taiwan set to begin testing its first indigenous defense submarine amid rising tension with China.)

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Shen Ming-Shih, acting deputy CEO of the Taiwanese military think tank Institute for National Defense and Security Research, confirmed the ministry's statement that American special forces are training entire companies of Taiwanese troops. Shen added that the training focuses on enhancing security measures to counter potential sabotage and infiltration.

"It makes the training more complete, which I think is very meaningful," said Shen.

Moreover, American military personnel are also providing specialized training on drone equipment for Taiwan's elite Airborne Special Service Company in the northeast city of Taoyuan.

Drew Thompson, a senior research fellow at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, justified the running of training exercises so close to the Chinese mainland, noting that holding these military drills where the troops are stationed is more practical than relocating entire commands for political reasons.

"If youre bringing in a training element, you want to train where the troops are rather than have to take the entire command and move it somewhere else for political expediency, explained Thompson.

China: U.S. interference in Taiwan an attempt to escalate tensions in the region

The last time the U.S. had an official troop presence on Taiwan was in 1979, when the last American soldiers withdrew following the normalization of U.S.-China relations.

However, the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act commits the U.S. to providing Taiwan with defensive weaponry and aiding the island in its defense against external aggression.

Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Mart Meiners reaffirmed America's unwavering support for Taiwan in a statement to the Wall Street Journal.

"Our commitment to Taiwan is rock-solid and contributes to the maintenance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and within the region," Meiners said.

In a separate statement, Communist Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian cited the U.S.'s interference in Taiwan as an attempt to escalate tensions in the region.

"Some people in the U.S. have been trying to hype up the China-threat narrative to escalate tensions across the strait and instigate confrontation. We firmly oppose that," Jian told reporters during a press briefing in Beijing.

Learn more about the threats facing Taiwan from China at CommunistChina.news.

Watch this clip from Red Voice Media warning of massively increasing Chinese military activity around Taiwan.

This video is from the Red Voice Media channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

War between the U.S. and China over Taiwan could cost the global economy a staggering $10 TRILLION.

China sanctions 5 U.S. defense corporations in answer to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan.

Taiwan: China may not be ready to invade by 2027.

Taiwan to buy 400 American anti-ship missiles as China continues to threaten the island nation.

Taiwan pushes back, wont let U.S. destroy semiconductor factories to prevent them from falling into Chinese hands.

Sources include:

DailyExpress.com

NewYorkPost.com

MSN.com

Brighteon.com
Tennessee becomes first state to protect musicians from AI through the ELVIS Act

The state of Tennessee has passed a bill protecting musicians from the unauthorized use of artificial intelligence (AI), named after one of the Volunteer State's famous sons.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee signed the Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security (ELVIS) Act into law on March 21. He held the bill-signing event at Robert's Western World, a venue in Nashville's Lower Broadway district. While it is often overflowing with tourists eager to listen to traditional country music, the bill-signing event was likewise packed.

"We employ more people in Tennessee in the music industry than any other state," Lee told reporters shortly after signing the ELVIS Act into law. "Artists have intellectual property. They have gifts. They have a uniqueness that is theirs and theirs alone, certainly not AI."

Citing a statement by Lee's office, Reuters reported that the ELVIS Act updates Tennessee's Personal Rights Protection (PRP) Act passed in 1984. The newly-signed law set to take effect on July 1 ensures "protections for songwriters, performers, and music industry professionals' voice from the misuse of AI." Moreover, the ELVIS Act includes voice likeness to protections already ensured by the 1984 law  name, photographs and likeness.

Supporters claim the goal of the ELVIS Act is to ensure AI tools cannot replicate an artists voice without their consent. While the PRP Act protected name, image, and likeness, it did not specifically address new, personalized generative AI cloning models and services that enable human impersonation and allow users to make unauthorized fake works in the image and voice of others.

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"While the presence of AI in music-making can be traced back to the 1950s, recent groundbreaking opens advances in generative AI  with robots now making music as digital pop stars  have divided opinions in the industry," Reuters noted, adding that "many experts say AI raises legal and ethical concerns." (Related: EU passes landmark AI law ensuring safety of rapidly developing technology  but will free speech be allowed?)

Generative AI posing a threat to the music industry

Lee's signing of the ELVIS Act into law makes Tennessee, the birthplace of country music and the launchpad for musical legends such as the measure's namesake Elvis Presley, the first U.S. state to enact such measures. Yet it remains to be seen how effective the legislation will be for artists looking to shield their art from being scraped and replicated by AI without their permission.

Generative AI  which was made popular in 2023 by OpenAI's ChatGPT language system  is capable of creating content including original sounds, lyrics, or entire songs on its own. However, artists often use simpler AI to enhance their sound. One such song that made use of AI is the tune "Now and Then" from The Beatles, touted as the last song that featured the Fab Four's complete lineup.

Lee and other supporters of the ELVIS Act acknowledged that the new law is untested, despite sweeping support from those inside the music industry and unanimous approval from the Tennessee General Assembly. Meanwhile, many musicians in the Volunteer State say they don't have the luxury of waiting for a perfect solution. They pointed out that the threats of AI are already showing up on their cellphones and in their recording studios.

"Stuff comes in on my phone and I can't tell it's not me," said country star Luke Bryan. "It's a real deal now, and hopefully [the ELVIS Act] will curb it and slow it down."

Head over to Robots.news for more stories about artificial intelligence.

Watch this video about OpenAI's ChatGPT5 possibly becoming self-aware and sentient, threatening the loss of many jobs worldwide.

This video is from the Victor Hugo Art channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

AI can influence peoples decisions in life-or-death situations.

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Digital prepping: How to survive in a world dominated by AI.

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Sources include:

Reuters.com

TheVerge.com

Brighteon.com
Welsh farmers protest Sustainable Farming Scheme that could put them out of business

Farmers are protesting across Wales against rural policies put in place by the Welsh government that are not only threatening thousands of jobs but also their way of life.

In the past few weeks, they have shown up at political events in their tractors and caused traffic delays on Welsh roads in what some believe could be one of the biggest crises for Welsh Labour Party in decades. The farming sector, and livestock farming in particular, is being blamed by climate alarmists for the UKs methane emissions.

The farmers main concern is the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) that the Welsh government has put in place as a way of funding the industry starting next year. One of its main components is forcing farmers to commit to making sure that one tenth of their land remains under tree cover. For farmers, this could prove to be quite expensive and is not practical. In addition, it could lead to an overwhelming amount of paperwork, while farmers with mortgages could be refused by banks because planting trees can reduce land values. A further 10 percent of their land must be devoted to a wildlife habitat under the new rules.

The controversial scheme claims that farmers will be rewarded for responding to the climate and nature emergencies, but the amount of money farmers will receive for giving up one fifth of their productive land overall is unclear.

Another reason they are opposed to the plan is because it will phase in strict rules aimed at controlling the spread of animal manure and manmade fertilizer. There are also 17 universal actions that will control numerous aspects of farming, from habitat maintenance to continuous personal development.

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A report about the impact of the SFS shows that it could cause a reduction in the numbers of Welsh livestock of nearly 11%, along with an 11% reduction in labor on Welsh farms, which equates to 5,500 jobs. It would also see the industry losing millions of pounds.

Fifth-generation farmer Ioan Humphreys told the AP: Ive got a two-year-old son sitting at home who loves every minute of being on the farm, and I am fighting for his future on that farm. Where do the people thinking up these schemes think their food is going to come from?

As part of their Enough is Enough campaign, the farmers have been showing up in tractors outside of the Welsh rural affairs minister's office. Some protesters carried signs with slogans like No Farmers, No Food and We Will Not Be Mooooved!

Hundreds of tractors also disrupted traffic on a highway in southwest Wales. This resulted in Welsh police having to instruct drivers to avoid the area altogether.

Welsh farmers maintain new rules are unrealistic and "insulting"

Farmer Stella Phillips told The Times: We already have a lot of rules and regulations which we cope with and farm with already. But I dont know how well manage with all of this. When are you going to have time to farm? If things dont work out there in the fields, you can forget the desktop in here because there will be nothing to measure, nothing to monitor, nothing to sell. If we have to plant 10 per cent trees, well be finished.

On her family's 85-acre farm, they are struggling to find space to devote to woodland to meet the requirements. Theyre also concerned about the requirements to create ponds. Fencing the ponds in requires the red tape involved in getting planning permission, but leaving them unfenced poses a danger to their small children. These bodies of water also attract insects that carry infections and could compromise the health of their sheep.

Farmers in the UK already receive very little of their produces retail value, with dairy farmers getting less than 1p of the retail value on a 480-gram block of cheese. Moreover, production costs are soaring, with everything from feed and fertilizer to fuel and energy making it harder for them to turn a profit. These new rules could see numerous farmers go out of business, particularly those with smaller farms.

Sources for this article include:

TheTimes.co.uk

APNews.com
The climate migration and security agreement between Australia and Tuvalu will proceed after Tuvalu's new government agrees not to change the deal.

Climate Migration Deal

The two nations had announced the agreement in November, but it was called into question during an election campaign in the tiny island nation of 11,000 inhabitants, which is threatened by rising sea levels.

Feleti Teo was elected as prime minister in February following a general election closely observed by Taiwan, China, the United States, and Australia amid a geopolitical struggle for power in the South Pacific.

Tuvalu is one of Taiwan's three surviving Pacific allies, after Nauru severed ties last month and turned to Beijing.

"The new government of Tuvalu has confirmed its desire to proceed with the Falepili Union," said Australia's Pacific minister, Pat Conroy.

Canberra agrees to help Tuvalu respond to a significant natural disaster, a health pandemic, or a military attack. This is contingent upon Tuvalu asking for such support.

The Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union Treaty is the first in the world to specifically establish a visa class for persons susceptible to the consequences of climate change, which threatens to render the island nation uninhabitable as sea levels rise.

Every year, up to 280 people will receive new visas that will allow them to live, work, and study in Australia.

Former Prime Minister Kausea Natano described the pact as a "beacon of hope" in which nations will help one another in the face of "climate change and geostrategic challenges."

Australia's foreign minister, Penny Wong, said it was "the most significant agreement between Australia and one of its Pacific partners since the agreements for Papua New Guinea's independence in 1975."

Read Also: Low-Lying Islands At Risk As Climate Change Raises Sea Levels

Sinking Island

Tuvalu's vulnerability to climate change, notably rising sea levels, stems from its geography.

The country has nine low-lying islands that make up the central Pacific nation, located roughly midway between Australia and Hawaii.

It faces two threats: global warming and the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global sea levels have risen at an accelerated rate of 0.2 meters (0.7 feet) over the last century, hurting small island states.

In addition to rising sea levels, Tuvalu is being hammered by more frequent and severe weather events, including cyclones and storm surges. These disasters exacerbate the delicate balance of the island's ecosystems, making life more difficult for its occupants.

The sinking of Tuvalu has far-reaching consequences for the global community and serves as a warning of what may happen if urgent action to prevent climate change is not taken.

Tuvalu's loss would not only relocate its population but also wipe away its unique cultural legacy and history. The global community must realize the linkages between climate change, sea level rise, and community dislocation.

This situation also exemplifies the greater risks that other low-lying and island nations confront. The delicate ecosystems of these island nations are currently under attack, putting unique flora and wildlife at risk as rising sea levels submerge habitats, disturbing their fragile equilibrium.

Related Article: Australia Offers Visa Grant To Tuvalu Citizens Affected Of Climate Change
According to information published by Naval Group on March 26, 2024, the French firm, alongside its partner TNO Nieuws, carried out a series of tests on Lithium Ion batteries designed for submarine use.

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Lithium-ion batteries. (Picture source: Naval Group)

The Royal Netherlands Navy plans to introduce the Orka-class submarine, aiming to replace the older Walrus-class submarines and improve its underwater capabilities. This initiative began in November 2014, when the Dutch Minister of Defence, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, announced the plan for four next-generation submarines, initially set to be operational by 2025. However, this timeline has been adjusted, with the first submarines now expected to enter service between 2034 and 2037.

The replacement program has been influenced by political discussions and strategic assessments, focusing on the submarines' desired capabilities and cost-effectiveness. These debates reflect wider considerations about the Netherlands' defense strategy amid changing global threats. The location for building the new submarines remains undecided, especially after the closure of the Dutch RDM shipyard, historically significant for the country's submarine construction.

In March 2018, the government confirmed its commitment to upgrading its submarine fleet by allocating over 2.5 billion euros for the new class. This decision highlights the continued emphasis on maintaining capabilities similar to those of the Walrus-class for operations in various marine environments, ensuring the Royal Netherlands Navy's effectiveness and versatility.

On 16 November 2022, the Dutch Ministry of Defence moved forward with the program by requesting quotations from three pre-selected shipyards, leading to the selection of a design expected by late 2023 or early 2024. This step marks significant progress toward starting the construction of the new submarines.

Among the candidates, the partnership between Damen Group and Saab Group, offering a design based on the A26 submarine, was notable for its advanced features. Naval Group and ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems also participated, showcasing their latest technologies. Eventually, Naval Group won the contract, as announced by State Secretary for Defence Christophe van der Maat on 15 March 2024. This decision has initiated discussions on choosing a foreign shipyard for a key national defense project.

The Orka-class submarines, with names Orka, Zwaardvis, Barracuda, and Tijgerhaai, are expected to bring significant advancements in technology. With specifications including a displacement of 3,300 tonnes, a length of 82 meters, and armed with torpedoes and cruise missiles, these submarines are designed for stealth, endurance, and flexibility.

Their diesel-electric propulsion system, enhanced by lithium-ion batteries, will extend their operational range. This project is part of the Netherlands' commitment to maritime security and strategic adaptability in the 21st century.
According to information published by General Electric on March 27, 2024, GE Vernovas Power Conversion business has been selected by ST Engineering Marine Limited to equip the Republic of Singapore Navys (RSN) new fleet of Multi-Role Combat Vessels (MRCVs) with advanced Ships Electric Grids, featuring Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) systems.

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Artist rendering of the future Multi Role Combat Vessel. (Picture source: Singapore MinDef)

The contract involves the delivery of electric propulsion systems for six MRCVs, slated to replace the RSNs aging Victory-class missile corvettes in service since 1989. The deployment of these systems is expected to span the next 10 years, highlighting a strategic overhaul in the navys propulsion and power management methodologies.

The core of GE Vernovas contribution, the Ships Electric Grid, is designed to efficiently manage and distribute electric power for ship propulsion and support various operational and mission-critical systems such as radar and communications. This marks a departure from traditional mechanical drive systems, offering enhanced energy efficiency and operational cost savings.

The grid will integrate various components including generators, medium-voltage switchboards, transformers, and propulsion motors, ensuring a flexible and robust power supply for the MRCVs diverse operational needs. Additionally, the vessels modular design will facilitate a wide range of naval missions, including the deployment of unmanned vehicles, significantly extending their surveillance capabilities.

About the MRCV

Multi Role Combat Vessels, developed by ST Engineering, are equipped to manage multiple missions simultaneously through configurable payloads that adapt to various combat and support scenarios. Physically, these vessels boast a length of approximately 130 meters and a breadth moulded of 19.0 meters, with a draught moulded of 5.20 meters.

Their displacement is around 5,000 tons, designed to achieve speeds of up to 25 knots. With a range of 6,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots, they exhibit endurance capabilities of up to 30 days, accommodating a complement of 110 personnel. They are built to operate up to Sea State 6, equipped with 2 x RHIB/USV with LARS, and offer helicopter facilities capable of supporting a 15-ton helicopter.
A core feature of workspace improvements could involve the integration of AI tools. Cisco found that by 2025, 73% of employers will invest in AI-powered collaboration software, with 68% planning to enhance their workspaces with AI technologies. Some 80% of employers plan to invest in AI for workspaces and collaboration by the end of 2025. This underscores the need to accelerate AI adoption within the workplace to enhance productivity and create a future-ready office environment, Cisco stated.

But while 43% of employees have access to AI technologies, less than half feel proficient in using them, Cisco added. With 1 in 4 employees not well prepared to use AI, this highlights the need for training and that businesses must select AI that meets both the organization and individual teams needs, Cisco stated.

Mixed feelings about returning to the office

Gartner has found companies need incentives to encourage on-site work. The top three reasons employees use the office are to build relationships, collaborate, and to bring a change to their routine, according to Danielle Torgerson, principal analyst at Gartner.

To provide compelling incentives that encourage employees to commute and commit to working on-site, start by asking employees outright through surveys, one-on-one interactions and focus groups why they value working on-site, Torgerson wrote in a blog post about hybrid work initiatives.

Many corporations are pushing employees to come back to the office fulltime; in a recent ResumeBuilder survey, 90% of respondents said their company will institute, or already has instituted, return-to-office policies.

Some employees are pushing back, however, and arguing that remote work has made them more productive, less stressed out, and better able to balance work-life commitments. In another Cisco survey, 78% of respondents said that remote and hybrid work improved their overall well-being. If employers insist on forcing workers back to the office, some would rather quit than comply.
Mumbai, March 27

A ctor Ishwak Singh, who is known for Rocket Singh, Paatal Lok and Made In Heaven, has shared that the theatre culture of Mumbai and Delhi differ a lot in terms of their larger craft and pitching of the stories.

The actor recently did a play in Delhi titled Ek Mamooli Aadmi, and garnered a lot of positive responses. On the occasion of World Theatre Day, the actor spoke with IANS and shared that Delhi theatre is fuelled by raw passion while the Mumbai theatre circuit has a certain finesse which comes from the involvement of actors like Naseeruddin Shah.

Ishwak told IANS: There is a finesse in Bombay theatre which comes from the active involvement of legends like Naseer sahab (Naseeruddin Shah) which is quite unique. Delhi theatre is fuelled by raw passion and driven by theatre gurus who are working against the tide to keep the art robust. Groups like Asmita and theatre directors like Arvind Gaur are at the forefront of it. Delhi being the capital is also a hotbed for political plays. These differences aside, what binds all theatre communities is a keen interest in exploring the craft.

Talking about the importance of theatre in the life of a screen actor, he said: The stage is one place where you can learn the craft inside out, its a sure shot way of learning the basics and developing your unique style.

Ishwak Singh spells out difference between Mumbai and Delhi theatre cultures

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Visakhapatnam, March 27

T he Sea Phase of Exercise Tiger Triumph 2024 commenced on Wednesday, with Indian Navy and US Navy ships sailing out together.

This phase in Visakhapatnam will witness Service personnel from both countries going through various facets of amphibious operations, including coordinated HADR and MEDEVAC.

Exercise 'Tiger Triumph 2024', is a bilateral, tri-service exercise between India and the US, being held from March 18-31.

The opening ceremony of the exercise took place onboard INS Jalashwa on March 19.

Prior to this, the Harbour Phase of the exercise was held at Visakhapatnam from March 18-25, and it included pre-sail discussions, Subject Matter Expert Exchange on professional subjects and deliberations on the planning and execution procedures of various tasks.

Earlier on Sunday, a pre-sail conference was conducted at Visakhapatnam to discuss the nuances of the upcoming sea phase of Exercise Tiger Triumph 2024.

The plans were presented to the commanders, with the commanding officers of participating units of the United States Navy and Indian Navy in attendance.

Notably, the exercise is aimed at developing interoperability for conducting HADR operations and refining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to enable rapid and smooth coordination between forces of both countries.

"Indian Navy ships with integral helicopters and landing crafts embarked, Indian Navy aircraft, Indian Army personnel and vehicles and Indian Air Force aircraft and helicopters, along with the Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT), would be participating in the exercise," the Ministry of Defence said in a press release.

'Exercise Tiger Triumph': India, US Navies commence Sea Phase in Visakhapatnam

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Researchers have used advanced sequencing technology to determine how the mix of microbes present in patients with healthy eyes differs from the mix found in patients with dry eye. The new work could lead to improved treatments for various eye problems and for diseases affecting other parts of the body.

Microbial communities in and on our body -; collectively referred to as the human microbiota -; play an essential role in keeping us healthy. Although many studies have focused on microbial communities in our gut, understanding the microbiota present in other body sites is critical for advancing our knowledge of human health and developing targeted interventions for disease prevention and treatment.

Once we understand the eye microbiota properly, it will improve disease diagnosis at an early stage. This knowledge can also serve as a catalyst for developing innovative therapies aimed at preventing and treating ocular disease as well as those that affect the central microbiome site: the gut." Alexandra Van Kley, research team leader, professor at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas

Pallavi Sharma, a graduate student in Van Kley's lab, will present the research at Discover BMB, the annual meeting of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, which will be held March 2326 in San Antonio.

"Human microbiome research suggests a strong connection between the gut microbiome and the brain and eyes," said Sharma. "Any alteration in the gut microbiome affects other organs and can lead to disease. Therefore, we are trying to identify patterns of an imbalance between the types of microbes present in a person's ocular microbiome for people with different health problems."

For the study, the researchers collected eye samples from 30 volunteers using a swab and then performed 16S rRNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis to determine the microbiome distribution for patients with healthy eyes and those with dry eyes.

The analysis showed that Streptococcus and Pedobacter bacteria species were the most prevalent microbes in healthy eyes while more Acinetobacter species were present in the eye microbiomes of people with dry eye. "We think the metabolites produced by these bacteria are responsible for dry eye conditions," said Sharma. "We are performing further research to understand the metabolic pathways associated with the Acinetobacter to better understand the disease."

Next, the researchers would like to explore the gut microbiome of the patients with dry eye to better understand how it related to the eye microbe differences they observed.
In a recent study published in the journal Nature Aging, researchers assessed the added predictive value of integrating polygenic risk scores (PRSs) and gut microbiome scores with conventional risk factors for common diseases in a long-term cohort study.

Analysis: Integration of polygenic and gut metagenomic risk prediction for common diseases. Image Credit: remotevfx.com / Shutterstock

Background

Multiomic technologies are transforming disease prediction by integrating genomic and microbiomic data, offering new insights into age-related conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Previously, risk assessments relied mainly on demographic, lifestyle, and clinical metrics. Now, the integration of PRSs and gut microbiome analysis into risk models promises to improve predictive accuracy beyond traditional factors. PRSs provide a cost-effective genetic predisposition metric, while the gut microbiome adds a novel dimension to understanding disease risk. This emerging approach necessitates further research to refine its accuracy and ensure its effectiveness across various populations and healthcare systems.

About the study

The FINRISK 2002 cohort, part of a series of Finnish surveys aimed at exploring chronic disease risk factors since 1972, served as the foundation for this study, focusing on the interplay between gut microbiota and health outcomes. Spanning six Finnish regions, this cohort engaged 8,783 participants from a pool of 13,498 invitees, including a diverse demographic aged 2574. Under stringent ethical guidelines, these participants underwent comprehensive health examinations and contributed biological samples, including blood and stool.

This research, grounded in detailed baseline data collection, aimed to explore the predictive power of genetic and microbiomic factors alongside traditional risk indicators for diseases like coronary artery disease (CAD), type 2 diabetes (T2D), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and prostate cancer. Through careful sample handling and state-of-the-art genomic and metagenomic analyses, the study capitalized on advanced multiomic technologies to build predictive models. These models were refined through rigorous statistical methods, evaluating their predictive performance against conventional risk assessment tools.

Study results

In the FINRISK 2002 cohort, a longitudinal study spanning over 17.8 years and including electronic health records (EHRs), 579 of T2D, 333 cases of CAD, 273 of AD, and 141 of prostate cancer were identified among participants with both imputed genotypes and gut metagenomic sequencing. The baseline clinical risk factors exhibited significant differences between incident cases and non-cases for CAD, T2D, and AD, with certain factors like smoking for T2D and sex, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) for AD not differing significantly. Prostate cancer cases differed significantly from non-cases in terms of baseline age and smoking habits.

PRSs and conventional risk factors were assessed for their predictive performance in incident diseases through Cox regression models. The analysis revealed that PRSs, when assessed individually or in combination with conventional risk factors, significantly correlated with incident diseases, enhancing the predictive performance beyond baseline clinical risk factors alone. Notably, for diseases like CAD, T2D, and prostate cancer, PRSs offered a distinct advantage over traditional family history indicators, emphasizing their potential to complement existing risk assessment models.

Subanalyses exploring additional risk factors, such as glucose levels determined through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) for T2D, consistently supported the PRSs' predictive value. The gut microbiome also emerged as a significant factor, with its composition at baseline correlating with incident diseases. The study delved into the gut microbiome's diversity and its association with disease incidence, finding specific patterns that could potentially enhance disease prediction models.

The research underscored the potential of integrating polygenic, metagenomic, and conventional factors into a cohesive model for predicting incident diseases. Such a model, which combines PRSs and gut microbiome scores with conventional risk factors, showed a marked improvement in predictive accuracy for CAD, T2D, AD, and prostate cancer. This integrative approach illustrates the promise of multiomic data in refining disease prediction and tailoring preventive measures more effectively.

Subgroup analyses reaffirmed the significant associations between PRSs, gut microbiome scores, and disease incidence, highlighting these factors' contributions across different conditions.

Conclusions

To summarize, this study contrasts the predictive power of well-established PRSs, baseline gut microbiome, and traditional risk factors across a median follow-up of 17.8 years. Findings reveal that while age stands as the most influential individual risk factor for CAD, AD, and prostate cancer, the inclusion of PRSs and gut microbiome scores notably enhances predictive accuracy. PRSs alone significantly correlate with higher disease incidence, underscoring their potential to augment conventional risk assessments. Furthermore, the study suggests that PRSs can refine predictions for CAD, T2D, and prostate cancer, even beyond family history's established risk implications. Although the gut microbiome's predictive contribution appears modest, it shows promise in enhancing disease forecasts when combined with conventional factors. The analysis points to a subtle role of the gut microbiome across different conditions, suggesting that its predictive value may vary due to the complex interplay between host aging and microbial changes.
A new way to classify tuberculosis (TB) that aims to improve focus on the early stages of the disease has been launched by an international team including researchers from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).

The new framework, published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, seeks to replace the approach of the last half century of defining TB as either active (causing illness and potentially infectious to others) or latent (being infected with the bacterium that causes TB, M tuberculosis, but feeling well and not infectious to others) - an approach researchers say is limiting progress in eradicating the disease.

The researchers point to large surveys conducted in over 20 countries showing that many people with infectious TB feel well. Under the new classification, there are four disease states: clinical (with symptoms) and subclinical (without symptoms), with each of these classed as either infectious or non-infectious. The fifth state is M. tuberculosis infection that has not progressed to disease - that is, M tuberculosis may be present in the body and alive, but there are no signs of the disease that are visible to the naked eye.

The researchers say they hope the International Consensus for Early TB (ICE-TB) framework, developed by a diverse group of 64 experts, will help lead to better diagnosis and treatment of the early stages of TB which have historically been overlooked in research.

TB remains the world's most deadly infectious disease currently and has caused over one billion deaths in the last 200 years. An estimated three million cases a year are not reported to health systems and more than half of these cases will be asymptomatic.

The international team was led by researchers at LSHTM, UCL, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), University of Cape Town, Imperial College London and the South African Medical Research Council.

Professor Rein Houben of LSHTM, co-lead author of the paper, said: "While providing treatment to people who become very sick with TB has saved millions of lives we are not stopping transmission of the disease.

"To prevent transmission of TB, we need to move away from focusing just on the very sick and look at earlier disease states, identifying people who may be infectious for months or years before they develop TB symptoms.

"Our consensus framework replaces the old binary concept of 'active' versus 'latent' TB with a more detailed classification system that we hope, if widely adopted, could help to improve treatment for those with early-stage TB and drive forward efforts to eradicate the disease."

The binary paradigm of active disease versus latent infection has resulted in a one-size-fits-all antibiotic treatment for disease, but designed for those with the most severe form of disease. This leads to potential over-treatment of individuals with subclinical TB. A key research priority now is to identify the best combination, dosage and duration of antibiotics to treat each TB state, as well as the benefits of treating the subclinical states." Dr. Hanif Esmail, co-lead author at the UCL Institute for Global Health and MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL

Dr Anna Coussens, co-lead author from WEHI, said: "One key finding in the consensus is moving the disease threshold and acknowledging that disease does not just start with symptoms or transmission, but when tissue is damaged.

"In time we hope our framework can contribute to TB elimination by leading to improved early diagnosis and treatment, optimising patient outcomes and minimising transmission."

The researchers noted that the disease process was non-linear - that people may fluctuate between infectious and non-infectious states, and between the presence and absence of symptoms or signs.

They also said that better diagnostic tools were needed to identify many of the TB states. For instance, there is currently no test to detect a viable M. tuberculosis infection (i.e., one where the bacteria are physiologically active), as opposed to a non-viable infection or recent infection that has cleared.

About the research

The framework was developed via a Delphi process designed to reach a consensus among a diverse group. The process began with a scoping review of papers and online surveys of experts and culminated in a two-day meeting in Cape Town, South Africa, of researchers from a range of disciplines as well as policymakers, clinicians, and TB survivors.

The international team involved stakeholders from 19 countries including International Union Against TB and Lung Disease, The StopTB partnership, World Health Organization, FIND, National TB Programmes, TB Proof, and researchers from a number of universities and medical research institutes.

The work was supported by Wellcome, the National Institutes of Health/RePORT RSA, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Medical Research Council, the European Research Council, and the National Health and Medical Research Council.
Transferring your health insurance policy within India is akin to migrating your current policy from one insurer to another, all while retaining your accrued benefits. Its a seamless procedure and can prove advantageous if youre dissatisfied with your present insurers offerings or come across a superior plan elsewhere.

In India, the insurance regulator IRDAI safeguards your interests by granting you the freedom to transfer your policy to any insurer you prefer. It stipulates that your new insurer must recognise the credit accrued by the insured for pre-existing conditions, respecting the waiting period terms.

Also Read: Policyholders Brace for Impact From April 1? Know IRDAIs New Surrender Charge Norms

This applies not only when you move from one insurer to another but also from one plan to another with the same insurer.

Transferring or porting your health insurance policy is an excellent method to guarantee you obtain the most suitable coverage tailored to your requirements. However, it is important to remember to meticulously review the terms and conditions of any policy prior to making a decision.

When transitioning your health insurance policy from one insurer to another, you need not forfeit the accumulated benefits youve acquired.

Historically, such transitions in health insurance policies often led to the loss of benefits, such as the waiting period for covering Pre-existing Diseases.

Rights of policyholders

You can port your policy from and to any general insurance company or specialised health insurance company

You can port any individual/ family policies

Your new insurer has to give you the credit relating to the waiting period for pre-existing conditions that you have gained with the old insurer

Your new insurer has to insure you at least up to the sum insured under the old policy

The two insurers should complete the porting as per the timelines prescribed in the IRDA (Protection of Policyholders Interests) Regulations and guidelines

Things to know

You can port the policy only at the juncture of renewal. That is, the new insurance period will be with the new insurance company

Apart from the waiting period credit, all other terms of the new policy including the premium are at the discretion of the new insurance company

At least 45 days before your renewal is due you have to

Write to your old insurance company requesting a shift

Specify the company to which you want to shift the policy

Renew your policy without a break (there is a 30-day grace period if porting is under process)

Steps to Porting:

Inform Current Insurer: As mentioned above, intimate your current insurer about your intention to port the policy at least 45 days before the renewal date.

Obtain Portability Form: Request a portability form from your current insurer. They are required to provide this upon request.

Contact New Insurer: Get in touch with the new health insurance company youd like to switch to. They will guide you on the specific process and plans available.

Application and Documents: Submit the duly filled proposal form and portability form along with other required documents like policy documents, claim history (if any), and KYC proofs to the new insurer.

New Insurers Review: The new insurer will assess your application based on their underwriting process. This might involve medical check-ups for older age groups or pre-existing conditions.

Policy Issuance: Once approved, the new policy will be issued, and your existing policy will be terminated.
The March 31 deadline in India can lead to some last-minute tax-saving scrambles, and its easy to make mistakes in the rush. As the financial year ends and the deadline for tax-saving approaches in India, its crucial to be aware of common mistakes to avoid maximising your tax-saving efforts.

Navigating the intricacies of tax-saving planning as the March 31 deadline approaches requires careful consideration and foresight. In this fast-paced financial landscape, avoiding common pitfalls is paramount to maximising tax-saving opportunities.

Also Read: Narayana Murthys Grandson Gets Infosys Shares, Who Pays Tax & How Gifts Are Taxed In India

Whether its leveraging Section 80C benefits, exploring diverse investment avenues, or aligning strategies with long-term financial goals, a proactive approach can yield significant rewards.

Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Procrastination: Waiting until the last minute can lead to hasty decisions and missed opportunities. Start tax planning early in the financial year to have ample time to explore various tax-saving options.

Waiting until the last minute can lead to hasty decisions and missed opportunities. Start tax planning early in the financial year to have ample time to explore various tax-saving options. Ignoring Section 80C: Section 80C of the Income Tax Act provides various avenues for tax-saving investments such as ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme), PPF (Public Provident Fund), NSC (National Savings Certificate), etc. Many taxpayers fail to utilise the entire limit of Rs 1.5 lakh available under Section 80C. Evaluate all options and invest wisely to maximise tax savings under this section.

Section 80C of the Income Tax Act provides various avenues for tax-saving investments such as ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme), PPF (Public Provident Fund), NSC (National Savings Certificate), etc. Many taxpayers fail to utilise the entire limit of Rs 1.5 lakh available under Section 80C. Evaluate all options and invest wisely to maximise tax savings under this section. Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all necessary documentation is in place for tax-saving investments. This includes investment receipts, premium payment certificates, loan certificates, etc. Incomplete documentation may lead to disqualification of tax deductions. Keep good records of your investments and deductions. The IT department may ask for documentation to verify your tax filings.

Ensure all necessary documentation is in place for tax-saving investments. This includes investment receipts, premium payment certificates, loan certificates, etc. Incomplete documentation may lead to disqualification of tax deductions. Keep good records of your investments and deductions. The IT department may ask for documentation to verify your tax filings. Ignoring Tax Planning Instruments: Apart from Section 80C, there are other sections such as 80D (for health insurance premiums), 80E (for education loan interest), and 80G (for donations to specified funds) that offer tax benefits. Ignoring these avenues can result in missed opportunities to save tax.

Apart from Section 80C, there are other sections such as 80D (for health insurance premiums), 80E (for education loan interest), and 80G (for donations to specified funds) that offer tax benefits. Ignoring these avenues can result in missed opportunities to save tax. Not Considering Long-term Goals: Tax-saving investments should align with your long-term financial goals. Avoid making investments solely for tax-saving purposes without considering their suitability and alignment with your financial objectives.

Tax-saving investments should align with your long-term financial goals. Avoid making investments solely for tax-saving purposes without considering their suitability and alignment with your financial objectives. Focusing Only on Traditional Investments: While traditional tax-saving instruments like PPF and NSC are popular, consider exploring other options like ELSS, NPS (National Pension System), and ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans) for potentially higher returns and additional benefits.

While traditional tax-saving instruments like PPF and NSC are popular, consider exploring other options like ELSS, NPS (National Pension System), and ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans) for potentially higher returns and additional benefits. Ignoring Tax-saving Benefits at Workplace: Many employers offer tax-saving benefits such as EPF (Employee Provident Fund), NPS, and reimbursements for certain expenses. Take advantage of these benefits to optimise tax savings.

Many employers offer tax-saving benefits such as EPF (Employee Provident Fund), NPS, and reimbursements for certain expenses. Take advantage of these benefits to optimise tax savings. Overlooking Tax-saving Opportunities for Non-salaried Individuals: Non-salaried individuals, such as freelancers and business owners, have additional tax-saving opportunities like deductions for business expenses, depreciation, etc. Ensure these opportunities are leveraged effectively.

Non-salaried individuals, such as freelancers and business owners, have additional tax-saving opportunities like deductions for business expenses, depreciation, etc. Ensure these opportunities are leveraged effectively. Putting All Your Eggs in One Basket: Dont invest all your tax-saving money in one place. Spread your investments out to minimise risk.

Dont invest all your tax-saving money in one place. Spread your investments out to minimise risk. Overdoing It: Theres no need to invest more than whats necessary to meet your tax saving goals. Invest carefully and consider your overall financial health.

Theres no need to invest more than whats necessary to meet your tax saving goals. Invest carefully and consider your overall financial health. Failing to Review Previous Investments: Review existing investments regularly to ensure they are performing well and continue to align with your financial goals. Consider reallocating funds if necessary to optimise returns and tax benefits.

Review existing investments regularly to ensure they are performing well and continue to align with your financial goals. Consider reallocating funds if necessary to optimise returns and tax benefits. Not Seeking Professional Advice: Tax laws and investment options can be complex. Consult a tax advisor or financial planner to devise a personalised tax-saving strategy that suits your specific financial situation and goals. Dont just copy what a friend or family member does. Your tax situation is unique, and what works for them might not be the best option for you.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure effective tax planning and maximise your tax savings as the March 31 deadline approaches.
Stocks To Watch On March 27: Equity indices declined on Tuesday, snapping their three-day gaining streak amid mixed global trends. In todays trade, shares of Angel One, CDSL, Apollo Pipes, Cipla, Aster DM Healthcare among others will be in focus due to various news developments.

Aster DM Healthcare: Private equity firm Olympus Capital Asia plans to sell a 9.8 per cent stake in Indias Aster DM Healthcare for up to 19.53 billion rupees (nearly $234.5 million), according to a term sheet seen by Reuters on Tuesday.

Central Depository Services (India): Standard Chartered Bank, a public shareholder of CDSL is likely to sell its entire 7.18 per cent stake (75 lakh equity shares) for $151 million through a block deal, CNBC-TV18 reported.

SpiceJet: SpiceJet on Tuesday said it had signed an agreement with aircraft lessor Export Development Canada (EDC) to settle liabilities worth Rs 755 crore.This pact will allow the airline to take ownership of 13 of the 15 Bombardier Q400 aircraft financed by EDC.

Adani Ports: Indias largest port operator Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has expanded its presence on Indias coastline after buying 95 per cent in Odishas Gopalpur Port Ltd (GPL) at an enterprise value of Rs 3,080 crore.

L&T: Engineering conglomerate Larsen & Toubro (L&T) on Tuesday said the companys board had approved a proposal to raise Rs 7,500 crore. This will be in the form of external commercial borrowing, term loans, non-convertible debentures, etc.

LIC: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) on Tuesday said tax authorities have slapped a demand notice of about Rs 39.39 lakh on it for short payment of Goods and Services Tax (GST) for 2017-18.

Sanofi India and Cipla: Both companies announced on Tuesday an exclusive partnership to boost access to Sanofis Central Nervous System (CNS) medications across India. Cipla will leverage its extensive network to distribute Sanofis CNS portfolio, including Frisium, a leading anti-epileptic drug. Sanofi will retain ownership, import, and manufacture of the CNS products.

Piramal Enterprises: The company invested Rs 2,000 crore in unit Piramal Capital and Housing Finance by way of subscription to a rights issue.

Angel One: The company has set a floor price of Rs 2,555.01 a piece for its QIP.

APL Apollo Tubes: It completed the acquisition of 53.57 per cent share capital and voting rights in KML on March 26, 2024, making it a subsidiary.

IIFL Finance: The company appointed Arun Kumar Purwar as chairman and an additional non-independent non-executive director effective April 1.
The Central Bank of India has been accepting applications for recruiting candidates for apprentice posts. The candidates who are selected will be assigned to branches and offices in their respective regions that come under the banks discretion. With this recruitment drive, the Central Bank of India aims to fill a total of 3,000 vacancies in the bank for apprentice posts.

The online registration process for recruitment started on February 21, 2024. Earlier, the last date to fill out the application form was March 6, 2024, but due to the rise in applications, the bank has now extended the last date to March 27, i.e., today. Candidates who are interested in these apprentice posts in the bank can apply by registering themselves at www.nats.education.gov.in. The Central Bank of Indias apprenticeship exam is expected to be held on March 31.

Central Bank of India Recruitment 2024: How to Apply

Step 1: Go to the CBI apprenticeship portal at www.nats.education.gov.in.

Step 2: Then, register using all the details and log in.

Step 3: Click on the section Apply Against Advertised Vacancy, and search for Apprenticeship with the Central Bank of India.

Step 4: Then, select Apply under the action column.

Step 5: Fill in all the necessary details as asked, and then pay the application fee.

Step 6: Upload all the required documents, and then cross-check the whole form before submitting.

Central Bank of India Recruitment 2024: Eligibility Criteria and Salaries

To apply for the apprentice post, the candidate should be a graduate of any discipline. In terms of age, the candidate should be born between April 1, 1996, and March 31, 2004, as per the cut-off date. There will be some age relaxations based on category. Apart from that, the candidates should not have previously completed an apprenticeship with the Central Bank of India or any other organisation. They should not be pursuing any other apprenticeship program. If someone has already completed their apprenticeship training, they will not be eligible for the posts.

In terms of salaries, the candidate will be paid Rs 15,000 per month.
The Aam Aadmi Partys MP and lone Lok Sabha member Sushil Kumar Rinku joined the BJP on Wednesday along with party MLA Sheetal Angural, dealing a blow to the party already facing a crisis following the arrest of its leader and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Rinku, the MP from Jalandhar in Punjab, and Angural, who was elected to the state Assembly from Jalandhar West, joined the BJP in the presence of Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri and its national general secretary Vinod Tawde.

The MP said he was joining the BJP for the development of Punjab, especially Jalandhar, and accused the states AAP government of not helping him in development works. He said he was impressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah and lauded the Union government for its development initiatives.

The parliamentarian had quit the Congress to join AAP last year to fight the bypoll to the Jalandhar Lok Sabha seat. He had been vocal in criticising the BJP in the Lok Sabha. Rinku was even suspended from the House for his unruly protests. The BJP is likely to field him in the Lok Sabha polls as the party inducts a number of influential leaders of different parties in Punjab to emerge as a strong force in the state with 13 constituencies.

Three-term Congress MP Ravneet Singh Bittu from Punjab joined the BJP on Tuesday and asserted that people have made up their minds to elect Prime Minister Modi to power again. Bittu is the grandson of former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh, a hero of the anti-terrorism campaign in the state who was assassinated in a terror attack while still in office.
The Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday sent a show-cause notice to its MP Dilip Ghosh over the controversial remark he made against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The party has asked Ghosh to explain why he spoke about Mamata Banerjee in such a manner and asked him to issue an apology.

Speaking to reporters, Ghosh said, This is not the first time I have faced a controversy over my statement, because I speak in front of those who commit injustice. Many people including the party said that I used unparliamentary language, if it is so then I express my sadness at it

I will give an official reply to the notice, the BJP MP added.

Asserting that his party and other people have reservations over his choice of words, Ghosh added, If it is so, I am sorry for that.

The controversy erupted on Tuesday after the BJP leader was heard mocking the family background of the West Bengal CM in a purported video clip.

Currently contesting from the Bardhaman-Durgapur Lok Sabha seat, Ghosh mocked Trinamool Congress slogan of Bangla Nijer Meye ke chai (Bengal wants its own daughter).

When she goes to Goa, she says she is the daughter of Goa. In Tripura, she says she is the daughter of Tripura. First, let her clarify, he said.

In response, an enraged TMC filed a complaint with the Election Commission against the BJP MP and alleged that he blatantly violated the model code of conduct (MCC). It also said that such remarks reflect the DNA of the saffron camp.

In its complaint, the ruling party of West Bengal said, Ghoshs comments not only cross the boundaries of decency but also perpetuate a culture of misogyny and disrespect towards women in positions of power.

Taking to X, the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC wrote, @DilipGhoshBJP is a disgrace in the name of political leadership! From challenging the lineage of Maa Durga to now questioning the ancestry of Smt. @MamataOfficial, he has wallowed in the filthiest depths of moral bankruptcy.

The Trinamool Congress also said it is crystal clear that Ghosh has zero respect for the women of Bengal, whether it be the revered goddess of Hinduism or the only woman CM of India.

The insider-outsider debate in the state gained momentum before the Assembly elections with the ruling TMC embracing Bengali sub-nationalism as its main poll plank against BJPs Hindutva narrative. TMC called the BJP a party of outsiders.

(With PTI inputs)
At 3.73 crore, 50% of West Bengals voters for the Lok Sabha elections are women. So it comes as no surprise that all parties are trying to woo women voters, be it the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) ticket for Sandeshkhali victim Rekha Patra, action against Dilip Ghosh for comments on CM and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee or the TMCs schemes for women and stir against Ghoshs remarks.

THE BASIRHAT BOOST

The BJP has fielded Rekha Patra from Basirhat. To boost her confidence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called her personally. During the call, Patra told Modi that women from Sandeshkhali are sending their blessings to the PM, who is like God to them."

The PM, on the other hand, said: Maata aur behenon ka hath mere sar pe hain (mother and sisters blessings are with me)."

ALSO READ | Shakti Swaroopa: PM Modi Dials Sandeshkhali Protester Rekha Patra, BJPs Basirhat Candidate

The entire conversation gives support and confidence to the women of Bengal. The PM might have spoken to Rekha, but through her, he reached out to all women. This is Modis guarantee," a senior BJP leader told News18.

Sandeshkhali saw allegations of sexual assault and land grab by local TMC leaders. Experts say the call was part of the BJPs message that the party will stand by women. There are a lot of Shahjahan Sheikhs (the accused in Sandeshkhali case) and women are not safe, which is why it is important to vote for the BJP," the leader said.

MAMATA AND WOMEN VOTERS

The Election Commission of India (ECI) data says that for every 1,000 male voters in West Bengal, there are 968 females. In 2019, of the 42 constituencies, 17 saw higher women voter turnout compared to men. According to surveys, Banerjee won in 2021 because women voters supported her, which makes Sandeshkhali all the more important for the BJP.

ALSO READ | BJPs Poll Play List Is Loud & Clear on WB Govts Failures: Sandeshkhali, Graft & CAA

As a woman leader, Banerjees rise to the post of CM is seen as inspiring by women. She has also launched welfare schemes such as Kanyasri (stipend for girl student), Rupashree (money for wedding) and Lokhi Bhandar (monthly stipend for women, which has been increased to Rs 1,000 from the earlier Rs 500).

While these initiatives gave Banerjee an edge, Sandeshkhali caused considerable damage. However, BJP leader Dilip Ghoshs recent comment may be of some help to the TMC.

GHOSHs REMARK

The TMC is up in arms after Ghosh recently made a remark questioning Banerjees origin.

He said: When Didi goes to Goa she says that she is the daughter of Goa. When she goes to Tripura, she says she is the daughter of Tripura. She should decide who her father isThis is not right."

Reacting strongly, the TMC has complained to the EC, with a 10-member delegation planning to meet the poll body.

The TMC launched an attack. Its great that the PM is talking to Rekha Patra, but what about the comment on Mamata Banerjee. Didi too is Shakti Swaroopa. What does the BJP have to say about it?"

While the party has condemned Ghoshs remark, they have also sent him a notice. Ghosh said: I will reply to my party I have nothing against Mamata Banerjee. If my words have hurt or if somebody says what I said was unconstitutional, then I am sorry. They always play the women card. My protest was about the confusion she creates. The TMC has also said objectionable things about our leader Suvendhu Adhikarys father. Did they apologise for it?"

Experts say Banerjee symbolises women power in Bengal, therefore any comment against her would have an effect. Meanwhile, an incident like Sandeshkhali, despite a woman CM, too, may not go unnoticed.

Trends of the past five-six years show that women have been deciding how their family votes. Which party will succeed in its attempt this time remains to be seen.
Things dont seem to be looking up for the INDIA bloc in Bihar. The RJD has decided to give tickets to at least eight candidates, with sources confirming that party president Lalu Prasads daughters Misa Bharti and Rohini Acharya are set to contest from Patliputra and Saran. The RJD has claimed 11 seats so far without any joint declaration by the INDIA bloc.

The CPI(M), meanwhile, has given a ticket to Sanjay Kumar from Khagaria as well as announced Awadhesh Rai as the candidate from Begusarai.

The numbers make it clear that so far, only 13 names have been cleared of the 40 from the INDIA bloc in Bihar. However, what is worrisome is that the candidates have not been officially announced by the opposition alliance.

The political churning within the bloc is visible in the form of a tussle between Congress and RJD in the state. RJD sources reveal that Lalu Prasads party is not going to comprise on anything less than 30 seats and if the party gets two seats in Jharkhand, it can give Congress one more seat in Bihar.

The Congress, which had not performed well in the 2020 assembly elections, is on the back foot. The RJD says had the Congress performed well in the last assembly elections, Tejashwi Yadav would have been the chief minister. Congress had won just 19 seats of the 70 that it contested. This time, the Grand Old Party was looking for 9-11 seats for the general elections but RJD is not keen to give more than six. The Left might get four seats in the alliance.

There is discontent in Bihar Congress as the partys senior leader Nikhil Kumar, who was also the governor of Nagaland and Kerala, was left surprised after RJD announced Abhay Kushwahas name for Aurangabad. Another reason for the tug-of-war between Congress and RJD is the Purnea seat. Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav, who merged his Jan Adhikar Party with Congress a few days ago, was confident of getting a Congress ticket from Purnea.

However, RJD appeased rebel JDU MLA Bima Bharti by giving membership to the EBC leader. Taking to social media, Pappu Yadav wrote: Will die, will not leave Congress. Will leave the world, will not leave Purnea. The post exposed the rift between Congress and RJD. Adding distress to the alliance, Congress is also vouching for Tariq Anwar to contest from the Katihar constituency, a move RJD is not keen on.

Bihar Congress chief Akhilesh Prasad Singh said: We are hopeful that everything will be fine. RJD and Congress are major parts of the INDIA bloc. Things will be sorted out in a day or two.

The NDA, excluding LJP(R), sorted out its candidate list just before Holi, giving them time to celebrate with their supporters. The BJP has given a list of all its 17 candidates, and so has the JDU for 16 constituencies. The HAM (Hindustan Awam Morcha) and RLM (Rashtriya Lok Morcha) who are the part of NDA have one candidate each (Jitan Ram Manjhi and Upendra Kushwaha respectively). These announcements were made last week from Delhi through a press conference.

Impact of Caste Survey

Over 63 per cent of Bihars population comprises OBCs and EBCs. Over 21 per cent are SC/ST and more than 15 per cent belong to the unreserved category. Keeping in mind the hissedari and bhagedari, Bihar elections will be based on the caste survey conducted last year.

Although RJD is concentrating on becoming a MY-BAAP (Muslim Yadav, Backward, Agda, Aadhi Abadi and Poor) party, the focus is on the EBC vote bank. The party plans to give seven seats to Kurmi/Kushwaha, a major EBC vote bank of NDA.

Of the agreed 17 seats, the BJP has given 10 seats to General, four to OBC, two to EBC and one to Scheduled Caste. No Muslim or woman has been given a ticket this time from BJPs quota. Also no one from BJP president Samrat Chaudharys caste ie Koeri has managed to get a ticket. To be specific, seats have been divided as follows: General Rajputs-5, Bhumihar-2, Brahmin-2, Kayasth-1, Yadavs-3 and Baniya-1. The BJP has distributed 13 tickets to sitting MPs.

The JDU has given three seats to general category, six to Backwards, five to EBC and one each to Muslim and Mahadalit. Twelve sitting MPs of JDU have been given tickets again.

A total of eight sitting MPs have been denied ticket this time from BJP and JDU. The NDA had 39 MPs of 40 in Bihar in the last general elections.
The Congress on Wednesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over mining baron G Janardhana Reddy rejoining the BJP ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, alleging that Indias most corrupt politicians have now been accommodated in the party.

The Congress also asked why has the ruling party rolled the red carpet for the corrupt and isnt the prime ministers anti-corruption rhetoric, completely empty.

Former Karnataka minister Reddy on Monday rejoined the BJP. The Gangavati MLA, who is an accused in an illegal mining case, had formed the Kalyana Rajya Pragati Paksha (KRPP) ahead of the state assembly polls last year, snapping his two-decade-old association with the BJP.

Reddy merged his KRPP with the BJP as he, along with wife Aruna Lakshmi and some family members, joined the party in the presence of its veteran leader and former chief minister B S Yediyurappa, state president B Y Vijayendra, and others.

In a post on X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, Indias most corrupt politicians, down to the last man, have now been accommodated in the Bharatiya Janata Party. They are motivated by two key factors  1. Participation: Minimum Government, Maximum Loot. 2. Protection: Join the BJP, evade the ED-IT. As the Electoral Bond Scam and the latest joinings in the BJP reveal, the Prime Minister and the Home Minister (Amit Shah) have systematically normalised large-scale corruption in India, he alleged.

The corporate donations the BJP gets, the state governments they attempt to topple, the mergers and acquisitions they are conducting  they are all evidence of this naked use of money power, Ramesh said.

The Prime Ministers slogan is and has always been  Chanda Jamaunga, Dhanda Karaunga, Sabko Khilaunga, the Congress leader said.

Addressing a press conference at the AICC headquarters here, Congress media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said Indias biggest Iron-ore mining scam was unearthed by a report dated 27th July 2011, of the then Lokayukta, Justice Santosh Hegde, which led to exposing of the unholy nexus of the Yeddy-Reddy Gang and finally the removal of then BJP Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa in August 2011.

Reddy has been arrested four times in seven years for iron-ore mining scam Rs 35,000 crore, Khera said.

He entered politics with the BJP in 1998, managing the Lok Sabha campaign of late Sushma Swaraj in Bellary against Sonia Gandhi, and has now once again returned to his roots, the BJP, the Congress leader said.

Shockingly, Modi government has now become the benefactor, protector, defender of the Bellary Gang responsible for denuding Bellary of its rich natural resources through a puppet CBI, he said.

Undeterred by the apparent conspiracy of Modi Govt to protect the Bellary Gang and put a lid on the Rs 35,000 Crore illegal iron-ore mining scam, then Congress government had shown the courage of conviction to prosecute and punish the looters of precious natural resources of Karnataka, Khera said.

The government withdrew the six CBI cases of Goa-Karnataka-Tamil Nadu vide order dated March 19, 2018, he said.

In 2019, a Supreme Court vacation bench of justices Indira Banerjee and Ajay Rastogi expressed concern over the delay in framing of charges and starting of the trial in the Rs 35,000-crore mining scam, Khera noted.

We are concerned as to why charges have not been framed and trial yet not started, the bench said while pulling up the CBI which is investigating the case.

Posing questions for the BJP, Khera asked why is the Modi government protecting, shielding, covering-up the Rs 35,000 crore iron-ore mining scam by shutting down CBI cases, one after the other, despite the scathing Lokayukta Report based on comprehensive evidence, both documentary & pictorial.

What happened to PM Modis latest statements comparing scams and schemes? Is this scheme to scam? Or protect a scamster? Is it not true that there are currently 20 pending cases against Janardhana Reddy? Is it not true that an ex-judge had claimed that Reddy had offered him Rs 40 crore as bribe to secure bail? he asked.

Why has the BJP then rolled the red carpet for the corrupt, even though they use CBI to arrest Opposition leaders, at the drop of a hat, Khera further asked.

Would PM Modi and the Home Minister (Amit Shah) explain this sinister conspiracy to put a lid on loot of public money and plundering of natural resources and facilitating Reddy & Co. in the party? he said.

Isnt PM Modis anti-corruption rhetoric, completely empty? Khera said.

The Congress leader further claimed that the nation has witnessed how BJP used the Extortion Directorate (ED) to fill its coffers through unconstitutional electoral bonds.

Now that the electoral bonds have been discontinued, it wants to return to its old ways of pandering to corrupt gangs who have looted public money under their patronage! Khera alleged.

Before the assembly polls last year, Reddy had been largely politically inactive for nearly 12 years since his arrest by the CBI for an alleged role in a mining scam. During this period, he had a brief stint ahead of the 2018 assembly polls when he campaigned for his close friend and former Minister B Sriramulu in Molakalmuru Assembly segment.
Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Highlights: The Congress Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting is set to take place at the partys headquarters in Delhi on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) announced all 17 candidates in Maharashtra for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Prakash Ambedkars Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) also declared nine candidates, indicating that it will not be an ally of the Maha Vikas Aghadi in the state.

Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari said that the party will declare all its candidates from the state on Wednesday. 500 MLAs have been bought, 17 governments have fallen, more than 200 MPs have switched sides Congress liberated the country, developed the country, and now Congress will protect the country, Patwari had said.

The political storm over Congress leader Supriya Shrinates remark against BJPs Mandi candidate Kangana Ranaut continued. The actor met with the saffron camps national president JP Nadda on Tuesday night amid the tense situation.

In Tamil Nadu, BJP state president K Annamalai filed his nomination for the general elections from Coimbatore. Earlier, he had expressed confidence that the NDA would bring in surprises this time in the state.
Uddhav Thackerays Shiv Sena on Wednesday announced the partys all 17 candidates from Maharashtra for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, introducing the candidature of Anil Desai from the Mumbai South Central seat.

The party  which is a part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi in the state  fielded former Union Ministers Anant Geete and Arvind Sawant from Raigad and South Mumbai constituencies respectively.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Rajan Vichare will contest from Thane, Amol Kirtikar from Mumbai North-West and Sanjay Patil from Mumbai North-East.

MVAs Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) is yet to formally announce its candidates for the April-May general elections. However, Congress  also a part of the oppositions grouping  declared its candidates for some of the seats, where there is no tiff with its alliance partners.

Meanwhile, Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi chief Prakash Ambedkar, who was offered three seats by the MVA for the Lok Sabha polls, will soon be clearing his stand about joining the alliance group.

In response to Ambedkars demand of contesting from 27 seats, the MVA offered him three. According to sources, he had refused to take this offer following which negotiations came to a standstill.

Last week, the VBA chief had set a deadline of March 26 for the Uddhav camp to conclude alliance talks and give his party some clarity.

Earlier, Thackeray had accused the BJP of trying to claim a Thackeray to win in the upcoming general elections. The remark came after a meeting between MNS chief Raj Thackeray and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Speculations of the saffron camp aiming to forge an alliance with Raj Thackerays for the Lok Sabha polls to strengthen its position in Maharashtra have been doing the rounds.

With 48 Lok Sabha seats in the fray, the second highest after Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra will go into polling in five phases starting from April 19.
The mood in western Uttar Pradesh this time is like in 2014the 2014 storm of the BJP is back. We will sweep entire western UP, says BJPs most prominent Jat face in the region, Union minister and Muzzafarnagar MP Sanjeev Balyan.

Balyan spoke to News18 just before he filed his nomination from the seat which he has represented in Parliament for the last decade. It was the 2013 communal riots and the Modi wave that led to BJP winning from Muzzafarnagar in 2014 after a gap of 16 years. BJP swept all 16 Lok Sabha seats of West UP in 2014 but dropped to nine seats in 2019 after the SP, BSP and RLD tied up. But now, RLD has tied up with BJP and that is expected to lead to a consolidation of Jat votes.

This time, BSP is fighting separatelythey have a vote bank on each seat. Secondly, RLD is with us. So BSP is going separately and RLD is coming with us and we both have our vote banks. The arithmetic is a complete opposite of 2019. We won in 2019 also and this time, too, there is no doubt. At many places, there is no fight at all. Opposition candidates are ready to leave their ticket if they can, Balyan told News18. Balyans main opponent now is SPs Narendra Malik.

It is ironic that RLDs Jayant Chaudhary is now allying with Balyan and his party after the BJP leader had handed a narrow loss to Jayants father Ajit Singh from Muzzafarnagar in 2019.

Yes, I fought election against Ajit Singh. He was a big leader. A leader is not big or small due to a loss. I always respected him and fought respectfully against him in 2019. I have respect for his family and Chaudhary Charan Singh. Today, Jayant and I are together and we will make a clean sweep, Balyan said.

Muzzafarnagars Mood

Moving in the sugarcane belt of Muzzafarnagar, which is the sugarcane capital of West UP, farmers throw their weight behind Balyan but say they need more money for their crop. The procurement price for sugarcane in West UP is around Rs 370 per quintal.

Balyan will winbut we need at least Rs 400 for sugarcane crop. He should get it done, a group of hookah-smoking farmers in a Muzzafarnagar village told News18. Some also complained of the present seasons pending dues.

The sugarcane procurement price is Rs 370 and it should be increased further. Even I want that. Im also a farmer like other farmers, Balyan told News18. He said 90 per cent of the sugar mills were making payments to farmers at the correct time. In my district, of eight sugar mills, seven are paying at the right time and within seven days. One sugar mill of Bajaj has been issuing late paymentssome sugar mills in the state make delayed payments and farmers face troubles. By year-end, even these will be remedied, Balyan said.

Muslims will vote for BJP: Balyan

The 2013 Muzzafarnagar riots meant that elections in West UP got a communal tinge since, with Jats and Hindus rallying behind the BJP and Muslims looking for the party that could beat the BJP. The Samajwadi Party and Congress alliance could do the same this time.

Congress is nowhere here. Their family has deserted UP. This election is not on the issues of caste or religion. The election this time is on the issue of 10-year-long development by PM Narendra Modi and 7-year-long development by CM Yogi Adityanath. Many Muslims will vote for the BJP this time, Balyan said, introducing News18 to many Muslims who turned up during his nomination rally.

He also said much water has flown since the 2013 riots and time had healed wounds. Now the issue is development of UP and Muzzafarnagar. We are fighting on the basis of work, Balyan claimed.

The electoral mood in West UP often determines the election sway in the rest of the state. Western UP farmers say when wind blows from the west, it is very beneficial for the crops and all the kida-mukoda (harmful insects) die. This hawaa from west UP will become an aandhi in the rest of the state, Balyan told News18.

This time, there does not seem to be much of a challenge to Balyans claim.
With the electoral battle for 2024 heating up, several regional parties like the BJD and Trinamool Congress are going aggressive in publicity drives on social media in their pockets of influence where they are challenging national parties.

In the last one month, political parties have amped up their expenditure on Facebook advertisements to reach out to their constituents in digital India, data from Facebook India has revealed.

PRO-BJD PAGE RACES AHEAD

There are two kinds of advertisements on Facebook  one that encompass everything and the other on politics and social issues. In the 30 days from February 23 to March 23, a pro-Naveen Patnaik Facebook page has been the top second spender on Facebook ads in the political ads section. The first was MyGov India  GoIs Citizen Engagement Platform.

The page named Ama Odisha, Nabin Odisha, which is run by the Odisha government, has spent over Rs 1,37,00,000 on Facebook ads in just 30 days. Ranging from advertisements praising Odishas health infrastructure to public transport facilities  the page paints a positive image of the Patnaik government, with each ad ending with the chief minister saying: 4.5 crore Odisha residents are my family.

In contrast, the BJP has spent a little above Rs 1,31,00,000 in the same period with 2,586 advertisements.

TMC SPENDS MORE THAN RaGa

Even West Bengal-based Trinamool Congress has spent more than Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the given duration. With an expenditure of Rs 36,00,000 in the last 30 days, TMC is at the tenth position.

Mamata Banerjees party has published 216 advertisements on Facebook. While doing so, it has left behind Rahul Gandhi whose page is in 12th position when it comes to how much one spends. Rahul Gandhis official Facebook page has spent a little above Rs 32,00,000  Rs 4 lakh less than Trinamool Congress.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) offered her ticket to fight the Lok Sabha election 2024, however, she declined the proposal citing a lack of funds required for fighting polls. The minister said that the BJP chief JP Nadda gave her the option to contest either from Andhra Pradesh or Tamil Nadu.

After thinking over a week or ten days, I just went back to say maybe not. I do not have that kind of money to contest. I also have a problem whether it is Andhra Pradesh or Tamil Nadu. Its also going to be a question of various other winnability criteria that they useAre you from this community or are you from that religion? Are you from this? I said no, I do not think I am going to able to do it, she said.

Sitharaman, the Rajya Sabha member from Karnataka, was speaking at the TIMES NOW Summit 2024 in Delhi.

I am very grateful that they accepted my argumentSo I am not contesting, she stated.

When asked why even the finance minister of the country does not have enough funds to fight Lok Sabha elections, she said that the Consolidated Fund of India does not belong to her.

She said, My salary, my earnings, my savings are mine and not the Consolidated Fund of India.

The minister said that she will be campaigning for different candidates. I will also be attending a lot of media events. And going with the candidates like tomorrow I will be going for Rajiv Chandrasekhar campaign and so yes, Ill be on the campaign trail, she added.

The ruling BJP has fielded several existing Rajya Sabha members in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, beginning April 19, including Piyush Goyal, Bhupender Yadav, Rajiv Chandrasekhar, Mansukh Mandaviya, and Jyotiraditya Scindia.
With just weeks to the Lok Sabha election 2024, the Congress is keeping the suspense going over its candidates for Rae Bareli and Amethi parliamentary seats, even as the party announced 13 of the 17 candidates from Uttar Pradesh.

Speaking to the media earlier today, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai said the names of candidates for other seats have been finalised but no discussion took place on Amethi and Rae Bareli seats.

Amethi and Rae Bareli seats were once bastions of the Nehru-Gandhi family. However, Congress scion Rahul Gandhi, who represented Amethi in Parliament from 2002, lost the seat to BJPs Smriti Irani in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Gandhi, a former Congress president, is now MP from Keralas Wayanad. The party has again fielded him from there amid growing demand that he contest from Amethi too.

The Rae Bareli seat has been represented by Sonia Gandhi since 2004. But the senior leader has decided shell be not contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and has moved to Rajya Sabha.

Now, in her absence from electoral politics, there has been a demand for fielding her daughter and All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra from Rae Bareli. Her posters were also seen in the constituency recently.

Amid the rumours, Rai earlier said it is the heartfelt desire of the party leaders and workers that Rahul and Priyanka should contest elections from Amethi and Raebareli respectively.

However, the final decision on this matter has to be taken by the party leadership, he told the news agency PTI on Sunday.

Under an agreement with the Samajwadi Party (SP), the Congress will fight on 17 constituencies, while the rest will be with other INDIA bloc partners.

Meanwhile, the BJP has again fielded Union Minister Smriti Irani from Amethi, but the saffron party is yet to open its cards for Rae Bareli.

The Lok Sabha election in Amethi and Rae Bareli will be held in the fifth phase on May 20.
In a phone call with BJPs Krishnanagar candidate, Rajmata Amrita Roy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he is working to ensure that the money attached by the Enforcement Directorate in West Bengal goes to the looted and poor people of the state.

He said while the BJP is committed towards eliminating corruption from the nation, the corrupt persons are coming together to save each other. The prime minister expressed confidence in the people of the state saying that will vote for Parivartan (change).

Notably, Roy is opposing TMC candidate Mahua Moitra in Krishnanagar.

ALSO READ | BJPs Poll Play List Is Loud & Clear on WB Govts Failures: Sandeshkhali, Graft & CAA

This comes a day after PM Modi dialled BJPs Basirhat candidate Rekha Patra, who is also one of the Sandeshkhali victims. He spoke to her about campaign preparations and also called her Shakti Swaroopa.

During their conversation, Patra told the prime minister that the situation in Sandeshkhali wouldnt have prevailed if they were allowed to vote freely.

The BJP Lok Sabha candidate further stressed no enmity towards some TMC women supporters who were against her candidature.

The saffron camp released its list of 19 candidates in West Bengal on Sunday, fielding Rekha Patra from the high-stakes Basirhat seat and Rajmata Amrita Roy from Krishnanagar, as a challenger to Moitra.

West Bengal, infamous for poll-related violence will see voting in all seven phases of the general elections  April 19, 26, May 7, 13, 20, 25 and June 1.

The 2019 elections, despite taking place in seven phases and with the presence of a good number of central forces, did not go violence-free. The West Bengal Assembly elections in 2021 were held in eight phases. However, the state witnessed a series of clashes and incidents of political violence.

The Election Commission has deployed 920 companies of the Central police forces for the upcoming general elections in the state.
With the Lok Sabha Election 2024 just around the corner, a massive revolt has erupted in the Karnataka unit of Congress over poll ticket for the Kolar constituency. At least five party legislatures three MLAs and two MLCs have threatened to resign if Congress decides to field Chikkapeddanna, the son-in-law of states Food and Civil Supplies Minister KH Muniyappa, from the Lok Sabha seat.

Muniyappa has sought the Kolar ticket for his son-in-law by pointing out that the Congress has already given tickets to the children of his Cabinet colleagues. However, his rival faction is reportedly pushing for former Rajya Sabha member L Hanumanthaiahs candidature. Hanumanthaiah is a Dalit leader.

The miffed legislators are claiming that Muniyappas family has benefitted enough from Congress with the opportunities and thus any leader belonging to the scheduled caste community should be fielded from the seat.

The legislators who threatened to resign includeKolar MLA Kottur Manjunath, Maluru MLA KY Nanjegowda, setting Minister MC Sudhakar, MLC Anil Kumar, and MLC Nazir Ahmed.

Speaking on the matter, Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar said, We had a serious defense with the minister. His daughter Roopakala is already an MLA in KGF, we have no issues. Again, he is trying to bring in his son-in-law as a candidate. We have requested the Chief Minister, Deputy CM and high command because we have suffered a lot. I have respect for the party high command, but others must be given representation. Some are putting pressure on high command for tickets so theres no point in continuing and let us just sit back at our home.

The rebelling leader also went to the Bangalore Vidhana Soudha where the two MLCs wanted to tender their resignation. However, later sought time from the legislative council chairman Basavaraj Horatti after discussing the matter with the partys Kolar District in-charge Minister Byrathi Suresh.

They came to give resignation. If they give their resignations, I will accept them. They have their resignation on a white paper, I asked them to give it on letterheads. But they had a discussion with the district in-charge minister and now have sought more time, said Horatti.

The leaders also reached out to the Legislative Assembly private secretary Mahesh Karjagi at the Vidhana Saudha as the Speaker UT Khader was not available at the office.

Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, who was campaigning in Uttara Kannada, came to know about the dissatisfaction among the party leaders and warned them about not crossing the Lakshman Rekha.

I have learned through my leaders and media about the issue. There has been no final decision made on Kolar so far. No one needs to worry. Discipline is important in the Congress party. No one should forget the Lakshman Rekha. If there is a party, we all will be there. Without a party, we are no one. I have spoken to them. They have accepted too. I and CM will go to Bangalore and will sit and speak to them Shivakumar said.
The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) on Wednesday announced candidates for 17 seats for the upcoming Lok Sabha election, however, one of them was unexpected  Sangli.

This seat in Maharashtra has been seeing hectic deliberations in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), with both the Congress and Sena UBT staking claim to it. If Thackeray does not withdraw his candidate, it could see a friendly fight, which means the two parties will remain in alliance in rest of the state, but as separate parties on this one.

CHANDRAHAR OR VISHAL PATIL?

Since the beginning of the talks, the two parties have been demanding the Sangli seat.

The Sena UBT feels that if they are leaving the Kolhapur seat for the Congress, the latter should leave the Sangli seat for them. Thackeray had also promised a ticket to wrestler Chandrahar Patil, which was announced on Wednesday in the first list.

ALSO READ | Ambedkars VBA Not to Ally with MVA; Announces Candidates for 1st Phase LS Polls in Maharashtra

The move, however, has not gone down well with the state leadership of the Congress. Congress state president Nana Patole had said that Vishal Patil, grandson of former CM of Maharashtra Vasantdada Patil, would contest on the seat.

Senior Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat said, Announcing the Sangli and Mumbai South Central seat candidates is not a good move by Sena UBT. Talks on these seats are still underway. They should have refrained from announcements, following the alliance dharma. We still demand the Sangli seat and Shiv Sena should rethink the decision. We have informed Delhi about the current scenario.

Vishwajeet Kadam, MLA from Sangli district and former state minister in the Maharashtra government from Congress, had led a delegation to Delhi to meet the partys high command regarding the seat. Kadam is likely to brief the party leadership about the political scenario.

If the high command gives the go-ahead, a candidate could be announced for the Sangli seat.

CONGRESS BASTION TILL 2014

Sangli was a Congress bastion till 2014. For the first time in 2014, the party was defeated by BJP candidate Sanjay Kaka Patil and in 2019 again, the BJP retained this seat.

In 2019, Vishal Patil was defeated by Sanjay Kaka Patil, who bagged 42.77% vote share. The Congresss votes were divided due to a VBA candidate, who managed to secure 25.23% vote share and more than 3 lakh votes. Kadam has been demanding the seat from Day One, claiming the Sena UBT had never contested from here before the split.

A few days back ago, Thackeray held a rally in Sangli, for which Congress leaders and party workers remained absent.

On Tuesday, too, when Sharad Pawar met Thackeray at his residence Matoshree for further talks of alliance, the absence of Congress leaders raised everyones eyebrows, indicating all is not well within the MVA.
The bridge collapse in US Baltimore after one of its supports was hit by a container ship on Tuesday is not the first such incident that took place in a country that boasts of the worlds best road network.

The World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure in its 2018 report shows 38 major bridge collapses that were caused by boat strikes between 1960 and 2015, killing a total of 342 people. And 18 of those incidents took place in the US.

Lets look at some of the notable incidents:

1967: The Point Pleasant Bridge, also known as Silver Bridge, collapsed due to heavy traffic on December 15. Forty-six people died in the collapse, and two of those people were never found.

1972: Sidney Lanier Bridge over the Brunswick River in coastal southeast Georgia fell after an 11,000-tonne freighter called the African Neptune crashed into it, destroying a 450-foot section of the bridge. Ten people died in the accident on November 2.

1980: Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Florida collapsed on May 9 after a freighter slammed into one of its central support piers, killing 35 motorists and bus passengers.

1993: On September 22, a towboat collided with the Big Bayou Canot Bridge in Alabama. Minutes later, an Amtrak passenger train derailed from the bridge, killing 47 people and injuring 103.

2002: The I-40 bridge in Oklahoma collapsed on May 26 after a freight barge struck a pier supporting the bridge. A section of the bridge caved in after the captain of the towboat reportedly lost consciousness and hit the pier. Fourteen people were killed.

2007: The I-35W Mississippi River bridge, also known as Bridge 940, collapsed into the Mississippi River during the evening rush hour on August 1, killing 13 people and injuring 145. At the time, it was the third-busiest bridge in Minnesota, carrying about 140,000 vehicles a day.

The Baltimore Bridge

The bridge was opened in 1977 to honour Francis Scott Key, a 19th Century Maryland poet who wrote the words of the US national anthem.

The bridge was 2.6 km long built over Patapsco River and Baltimore harbour. It is described as a continuous truss bridge.

A video footage from the incident shows how the bridge began to collapse after a container ship, Dali, hits one of its pillars.

What Do We Know About the Ship?

The Dali ship was originally built for Greek shipowner Oceanbulk by South Koreas Hyundai Heavy Industries.

It is currently operated by the charter vessel company Synergy Group and had been temporarily leased by container shipping giant Maersk, a Maersk statement said. It further said the ship was carrying cargo for Maersk customers but that no company personnel were on board at the time, as reported by the BBC.

The ship was set off from Baltimores Seagirt Marine Terminal at 12:24 local time on Tuesday for Colombo in Sri Lanka.

While maintaining a steady course, the ship suddenly diverted and began to slow down. Around this time, video shows that all lights on the exterior of the ship suddenly turned off and smoke began emanating from the ships funnel, the BBC reported.

After the mayday signal was sent from the ship, authorities stopped the cars driving on the bridge.

According to Maryland Governor Wes Moore the vessel was moving at a high speed  eight knots or 15 km/ hour.

The collapse of the bridge will cause major traffic disruption for months; shipping activity is said to also get affected.

The four-lane bridge was part of Interstate 695, the outer ring road around Baltimore city known as the Baltimore Beltway, and carried an estimated 11.5 million vehicles per year.
Alphabet, Apple and Meta are being probed for potential breach of a new digital law designed to prevent the Big Tech to have an unfair advantage over their competitors.

The European Commission has categorised six companies as the most powerful under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which require extra regulation. The six gatekeepers are: Apple, Meta, Alphabet, Microsoft, Amazon and TikTok owner ByteDance.

The companies were given six months till March 7 to comply with the rules, which aim to give users more choice.

What Will the Probe Include?

Apple and Alphabet will be investigated on their payment systems around anti-steering behaviour. For example, Apple and Alphabet usually take a cut in the fee for every purchase made on App Store or Play Store.

Apple is already facing lawsuits in the US for violating anti-trust laws by blocking rivals from accessing hardware and software features of the iPhone. The European Union recently fined Apple $1.8 billion for blocking music streaming apps from informing users of cheaper deals.

Tech companies have also been accused of displaying their own products more prominently than those of their rivals, giving themselves an edge over their competitors.

There are concerns that Google gives preference to its own services such as Google Hotels or Google Flights, potentially limiting business for rivals such as Booking.com or Skyscanner.

Similarly, Amazon has also been accused of giving preference to its own products over their rivals online.

The digital law also requires the six companies to seek consent from their customers when they combine a persons data across different platforms such as Metas Facebook and Instagram.

What Does It Mean for the Gatekeepers?

The new prohibitions and regulations would mean breaking into closed iPhone app ecosystem and allow users to download software from other online stores and from the web, as mentioned in a Bloomberg report.

The new rules would mean the getting rid of the 30% commission Apple has imposed on developers since App Store launch in 2008. The company has added other costs for software makers  including a 3% payment processing charge for apps that use Apples in-app purchase system.

Google, which faced an EU probe over firms conduct in advertising technology last year, was fined 8 billion Euros. The company said it has made significant changes to its services in Europe and that it will continue to defend our approach in the coming months.

A Meta spokesperson said the company was trying to comply with the acts guidance. Subscriptions as an alternative to advertising are a well-established business model across many industries, and we designed Subscription for No Ads to address several overlapping regulatory obligations, including the DMA, Meta said as quoted by Reuters.

Apple said it is confident that it complies with the DMA.

What is the Digital Markets Act?

The European law aims to prevent big online platforms selling content, goods and services from abuse of power. The EU believes that strict regulation of big technology companies, the so-called gatekeepers of the digital economy, will lead to more competition and choice, greater innovation, better quality, and lower prices.

DMA was first proposed in December 2020 and became applicable on May 2, 2023. Failure to comply with the law would result in hefty fines and being forced to offload assets or being banned from operating within European borders.

The law primarily targets search engine companies, messaging services, web browsers, online marketplaces, social networks that have at least 45 million monthly active users.

The law will stop these Big Tech companies from forcing users to use only their platforms, and will make it harder for them to track users internet activity.

Some of the key measures are:

 Restrictions on how the companies can use the user data for advertising purposes

 Messaging services and social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook being able to send messages directly to a completely different service such as Telegram.

 Allowing users to uninstall preloaded applications on devices.

 Ban gatekeepers to rank their own products or services higher in online searches
Mumbai now has 92 billionaires, enough to overtake Beijing, as the billionaire capital of Asia, shows a Hurun research. Globally, the Indian city now ranks number 3 in terms of billionaires after New York, which is home to 117 billionaires, followed by London with 97.

According to Hurun Researchs 2024 Global Rich List, China has 814 billionaires compared to India 271, but Mumbai has 92 billionaires as against Beijings 91.

Indian billionaires cumulative wealth reached US$1 trillion, surpassing Chinas average wealth per billionaire (US$3.2 billion vs US$3.8 billion), according to the 2024 Hurun Global Rich List.

This phenomenal increase in wealth is due to Indias addition of 94 new billionaires in a single year, surpassing Chinas 55, making it the second largest contributor to worlds billionaire population.

How Mumbai Scripted the Success Story

The 603-sq km Mumbai added 27 new billionaires compared to 6 in Beijings 16,000 sq km.

The fact that the billionaires not only invested in traditional sectors such as telecom and energy but also took interest in burgeoning Artificial Intelligence (AI) domain and start-ups is a huge contributing factor behind the rise in their wealth.

With a young, tech-savvy population and a growing focus on innovation, India is well-positioned to capitalise on this AI revolution, potentially fuelling the creation of even more billionaires in the coming years, the report indicated.

Mumbais billionaire wealth stands at $445 billion, with an increase of 47% from previous year, as against Beijings $265 billion, a 28% decrease.

Indias and particularly Mumbais meteoric rise in the global wealth creation arena heralds a new chapter in economic history, showcasing unparalleled growth and prosperity, said the Hurun report.

Behind Indias Billionaire Boom

Some of the factors behind Indias robust economic performance lies in strong stock markets, investor confidence and immense opportunities for business creation.

The 2024 Hurun Global Rich List underscores Indias ascension as a future economic titan, poised to secure its place as the worlds third-largest economy. Surpassing all but the United States, Indias unprecedented billionaire boom propels Mumbai past Beijing, crowning it as Asias billionaire epicentre. Yet, as we stand on the brink of revolutions in electric vehicles, space technology, and AI, Indias start-up ecosystem is just beginning to unveil its potential. The next decade holds a clear message: overlooking the Indian narrative is a risk no visionary can afford. The Hurun Global Rich List doesnt just track wealth; it signals a pivotal shift in the global power structure, said Anas Rahman Junaid  Founder and Chief Researcher, Hurun India, as quoted by The Business Standard.

The Hurun report also highlighted specific sectors contributing to Indias billionaire boom, with the pharmaceutical industry leading the pack with 39 billionaires, followed by the automobile and auto components industry (27), and the chemicals sector (24).

Who is the Richest?

Asias richest man, Mukesh Ambani, is the only one to enter the top 10 in the 2024 Hurun Global Rich List.

Kalyan Jewellers, TS Kalyanaraman and family, saw their wealth skyrocket by 200% during the year by $3 billion. They are the biggest wealth gainer by percentage.

Another, luxury real estate developers family, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, saw their rise 116% or by $11 billion during the year.

The Hurun report said world added 167 billionaires  taking the total number to 3,279. Most of the new wealth came from artificial intelligence.

The US added 109 billionaires taking its total to 800. Elon Musk is the richest person in the world for the third time in four years, with a wealth of $231 billion, the report added.

Amazons Jeff Bezos is up two places to second, adding $67 billion or 57% to his total worth of $185 billion. Billionaire Bernard Arnault is down to third position with $175 billion.

Taylor Swift debuted on the rich list with a wealth of $1.2 billion.
The much-awaited three-kilometre-long Ejipura elevated corridor project in Bengaluru, which would now cost close to Rs 307.96 crore, may finally see the light of day, at least according to government officials. The project saw a cost escalation of over Rs 104 crore due to inordinate delays in construction.

The work on this incomplete Link Road, which is to be used only by private vehicles, passes through one of Bengalurus premium localities of Koramangala into the Inner Ring Road, entering into Indiranagar, considered the IT citys High Street.

The work, which began mid-March, is expected to be completed in 15 months, said a senior official in charge of infrastructure projects in the city.

We have given the company which the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike had entered an agreement with to start work immediately and deliver the project or face immediate cancellation of the contract, said the senior government official from the urban development department, Karnataka.

Originally meant to ease traffic congestion from Madiwala to Ejipura and bridge the two points enhancing connectivity, the project now seems only to be a half-done reality, causing more inconvenience due to the debris and construction material that has piled up over the years.

The Ejipura flyover has been jinxed, many feel, as the work on the project begins and then, due to some hurdle, it comes to a standstill, leaving commuters on the route in the lurch.

Flyover vs Metro

Civic evangelist V. Ravichandar points out, yet again, that the fundamental flaw was in the decision to go for a flyover. He said it should have been the Metro train service going through that area.

My opinion even today would be to give up on this project and see how we could connect the area with the other Metro lines in the vicinity. Bringing Koramangala, IRR in the metro network would considerably reduce the overall private vehicle use he explained.

He added that the original sin in this case is that people including the resident association pushed for the flyover project.

Its almost like poetic justice that a wrong choice of a flyover to ease the traffic issue there has got inordinately delayed, Ravichandar told News18.

The BBMP has not been releasing any money to contractors and that has caused severe delays on infrastructure projects across the city, added Revathy Ashok, managing trustee and CEO of Bangalore Political Action Committee (B.PAC).

Nobody wants the flyover anymore, it seems. We must move people from thinking of using personal vehicles to using public transport. What hurts more is that there is zero plan to connect this stretch to the Metro lines, be it from Silk Board side or Indiranagar, Ashok said.

She added that even the smooth flow of buses or vehicles is hampered due to the construction debris dumped around.

Why cant the contractors be told that they should complete the work and not dump any more debris, which adds to the traffic congestion as people are restricted to using a small passage of road? This place needs urgent attention.

Commuters have been facing this intense misery for over seven years and there is total apathy from successive governments and will to complete the project in a time bound manner, Revathy said.

Lets look at the developments one by one to understand the delays, hurdles, and targets.

The Ejipura flyover had first been commissioned in 2014 and has since faced several hurdles and inordinate delays.

What is the flyover expected to do?

The road connecting Madiwala, Koramangala, Ejipura, and finally linking the Inner Ring Road which leads into Indiranagar in Bengaluru is expected to bring down the travel time to just 20 minutes on this road with high traffic density.

Severe traffic congestion causes inordinate delays, so much so that people spend close to an hour to cover a 6-km stretch of which the flyover is a part. This flyover was expected to help avoid jam-packed traffic junctions like Srinivagilu-Ejipura, Sony World Junction, Koramangala BDA Complex Junction, Madiwala-Sarjapur Water Tank Junction, Kendriya Sadan Junction, and later connect southeast Bengaluru to the western and eastern parts of the city.

The project officially commenced construction in 2017 and, at that time, the Congress was in power in alliance with the Janata Dal (Secular). Simplex Infrastructure Limited was awarded the contract and it managed to complete just 30 per cent of the work when the Congress-JD(S) coalition government collapsed two years later in 2019. This caused the work to slow down, and in 2021 Simplex abandoned the project.

Owing to public pressure and the need to ease traffic, a public interest litigation was filed in the Karnataka high court in 2021, instructing the BBMP to float a fresh tender. The body did so in August 2022, but the tender was recalled citing technical issues. Once again in January 2023, the BBMP floated another tender, which this time passed and got the necessary technical approval.

Several tenders were called later by the city civic body BBMP after Simplex withdrew. A single bidder, BSCPL Infrastructure Limited, quoted Rs 204 crore to complete the project. This was around 50 per cent more than BBMPs estimation for the completion of the work and so the party did not get approval on financial grounds.

Hyderabad-based contractor B Seenaiah & Company (Projects) Limited (BSCPL) finally won the tender for the remaining work and it is said that now the BBMP will require close to Rs 142 crore to bring the project to complete fruition.

Simplex Infrastructure, the first company that decided to leave the project due to non-payment of dues, asked the BBMP to pay an outstanding amount of Rs 15 crore.

Karnataka minister Ramalinga Reddy, who is also the MLA representing the BTM Layout assembly seat, in which this project falls, is optimistic that the flyover will be completed at the earliest. He said that now that the Congress government is back in power and this was its dream project, it will be expedited.

The project faced delays as in the previous BJP government, they did not show interest in completing the work and instead decided to divert funds for such infrastructure work to constituencies which were ruled by BJP MLAs, Reddy said.

In November 2023, the project ran into another hurdle as eight trees were to be uprooted to make way for the flyover, but residents and environmentalists raised severe objections. Once again this brought the project to a halt.

The proposal was to remove 67 trees to make way for the structure and the BBMP removed nine trees on December 1, 2023. Following protests from environmentalists, a special order was issued by the deputy conservator of forest (DCF), BBMP, bringing the work to a grinding halt. Namma Bengaluru Foundation was one of the main groups claiming that the 50-plus-year-old trees need not be felled as they were part of sidewalks and were not obstructing construction.

The DCF added that since some of the city-based environment associations had taken the legal route, the BBMP would have to wait until a direction from the court was issued to resume work.
Videos of Ashoka University students shouting casteist slogans surfaced on X on Wednesday, leading to reaction from former Infosys Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mohandas Pai and netizens. The university, through a statement, promised action.

The videos on X show students shouting slogans such as We need caste census and Brahmin-Baniyawaad Murdabad.

Quoting the videos shared by one Anshul Saxena, Pai said: This is very very shocking if true why is there so much caste hatred in @AshokaUniv? Will @sbikh Pl take action to stop such hatred, if true?

He also tagged Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, asking the government to look into why such hatred prevails. How can universities keep quiet?

This is very very shocking if true why is there so much caste hatred in @AshokaUniv ? Will @sbikh Pl take action to stop such hatred, if true? @dpradhanbjp Govt should look into why such hatred prevails? How can universities keep quiet? https://t.co/7hEGtcNfvv Mohandas Pai (@TVMohandasPai) March 27, 2024

Another netizen Dhruv Tripathi said hateful slogans were raised against Brahmins and Baniya in Ashoka University on Tuesday.

Hateful Slogans were raised against Brahmins and Baniya in Ashoka University yesterday.The founders and donors of the university are mostly upper caste and slogans are being raised against them. FIR should be registered against them.#Stop_Targeting__ pic.twitter.com/gfQ3nouqhr  Dhruv Tripathi (@Dhruv_tr108) March 27, 2024

Internet entrepreneur and investor Sanjeev Bikhchandani, who was there at the university, said, A bit of an overclaim. The protesting students came and stood outside the door of the class during the ten-minute break after the first hour of the class. They shouted slogans for two or three minutes and then went away.

@sbikh Why the Hate slogans? Who is creating hate there? Which faculty is instigating hate? The slogans are the problem not protest. How can you normalize such hate caste based slogans? They can protest without such hate slogans? https://t.co/CJHmQ7X3Sy Mohandas Pai (@TVMohandasPai) March 27, 2024

To which Pai responded, Protests are great but Hate caste slogans not ok. It creates fear and distress to others, divides people! VC should act and tell public action taken.

Ashoka University attaches great value to freedom of expression and vigorous debate, but it also attaches great importance to mutual respect. The university deplores expressions of hatred directed against any individual or group.Ashoka Universitys Guidelines on Protecting  Ashoka University (@AshokaUniv) March 27, 2024

The Haryana-based varsity, in its statement, said, Ashoka University attaches great value to freedom of expression and vigorous debate, but it also attaches great importance to mutual respect. The university deplores expressions of hatred directed against any individual or group. Ashoka Universitys Guidelines on Protecting Freedom of Expression have clearly laid down that such freedom of expression is not unlimited and enjoins respect for therights and sensibilities of others. This is essential to preserving the spirit of community at Ashoka. Actions that make the atmosphere intimidating, threatening or hostile to individuals or groups are therefore regarded as serious offences and are subject to University disciplinary procedure. The University will take all measures necessary to ensure that peace and harmony in the campus is not disturbed.
The Enforcement Directorate has summoned the Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) Goa unit chief, Amit Palekar and some other party leaders from the state for questioning on March 28 in connection to a money-laundering case linked to the Delhi excise policy.

As per official sources, the AAP leaders have been asked to depose at the probe agencys office in Goas Panjim on Thursday.

The AAPs chief ministerial face during the February 2022 Goa Assembly polls, Palekar had recently said there was no evidence to prove that any illicit money was sent to the state.

He further asserted that he and his party colleagues were ready to face any inquiry.

On March 21, the ED arrested AAP national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the case.

The agency has claimed in its chargesheet that the AAP used proceeds of crime to the tune of about Rs 45 crore in its Goa poll campaign, from the Rs 100 crore bribe that was pumped in by the South Group that allegedly involved Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha. Kejriwal will be produced before a Delhi court by the ED at the end of his remand period on Thursday.

(with PTI inputs)
Former Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, who was expelled by Parliaments ethics committee for sharing her login credentials and password with an unauthorised person amid cash-for-query allegations, has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate for a second time in connection with a FEMA violation case. Businessman Darshan Hiranandani has also been called by the agency. The TMC leader has been accused of taking Rs 2 crore in cash, as well as luxury gift items, from Hiranandani to ask questions critical of the government in Parliament.

Both Moitra and Hiranandani have been told to appear before the investigators of the directorate on Thursday, sources in the ED told News18.

According to senior officers in the directorate, a senior advocate from Kolkata has also been summoned by the ED in connection with the case. The agency has recorded statements of another senior advocate of the Supreme Court, who raised certain allegations against Moitra.

Rubbishing the charges, Moitra has repeatedly said that the summonses and raids were nothing but political vendetta. Responding to the first summons by the ED, she stated that the action was illegal and that she did not commit any FEMA violation. The ED has summoned her yet again in connection with the same case.

Anyone who receives a summons has to appear before the ED. The apex court has ruled and that is the law. The accused person cannot judge a summons veracity or legality and call it illegal. If someone has a problem with a summons, that person has to file a petition before the court seeking redressal. But until that happens, anyone who has been summoned has to appear before the ED, said a senior officer of the directorate.

Moitra is now entangled in two different cases, including one of Foreign Exchange Management Act violations, for which she has been summoned. In addition, the Central Bureau of Investigation has lodged an FIR against her in connection with the cash-for-query allegations and initiated a probe. Moitras residence was also searched by the central agency last week in connection with the case.

Moitra has been re-nominated by her party TMC from the Krishnanagar seat in West Bengals Nadia district for the Lok Sabha elections beginning next month.
Villagers of Kodimbala village of Kadaba taluk in Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka went into panic mode as a large king cobra moved away from its natural habitat and entered a human-populated area. The snake had been reportedly spotted several times in the village and it has now finally been rescued and brought back to the forest. The snake captured is enormous, measuring 13 feet long and is believed by locals to be an avatar of Kalinga.

The king cobra was first discovered by a worker who was working in a rubber mill. He heard a hissing sound and discovered the snake inside the small plant. Locals got the information and chased after the snake. Due to its sheer size, it was first believed to be either a python or a rattlesnake.

After the villagers were unable to capture the snake, Subrahmanyad Gopala, a snake expert was called upon who managed to track and rescue the huge serpent after a gruelling 7-hour operation. After its capture, villagers as well as forest officials took pictures along with the 13-foot-long snake. The locals believed the snake was an incarnation of the mythical Kaliya or Kalinga who according to Hindu scriptures, was a venomous Naga living in the Yamuna river, in Vrndavana. He lived while bubbling hot water and terrorized the locals until he was defeated in combat by Lord Krishna.

The king cobra is the longest venomous snake in the world, and can grow up to 18 feet and is the only snake in the world that lays eggs inside nests on the ground, guarding them till they hatch. In India, it is found in the Western Ghats, Orissa, Bengal, and Assam in addition to other areas including the Terai landscape. They seldom venture into human-inhabited areas and their love for rat snakes is said to be one of the reasons they may enter areas populated by humans, apart from pressing issues like deforestation.
KERALA LOTTERY SUMMER BUMPER BR-96 RESULT ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, LIVE UPDATES: The Kerala State Lottery Department has announced the results of the Summer Bumper BR-96 lucky draw today for Wednesday, March 27. The first prize winner will get Rs 10 crore, the second prize winners will get Rs 50 lakh and the third prize winners will receive Rs 5 lakh. Ticket number SC 308797, sold in Payyannur, won the first prize worth Rs 10 crore. Check the full list of winning numbers below.
Arvind Kejriwals Wife Addresses Media on So-Called Liquor Scam; Delhi CM Tells HC Aim of Arrest is to Disable AAP | Updates

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwals wife, Sunita, on Wednesday addressed the media for the second time on Wednesday. She said that the CM has diabetes, and his sugar levels are not in range, but his determination for the national capital is strong. READ MORE

Exploring Legal Options: PM Modi Dials BJPs Krishnanagar Candidate Amrita Roy Over Money Attached By ED In Bengal

In a phone call with BJPs Krishnanagar candidate, Rajmata Amrita Roy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he is working to ensure that the money attached by the Enforcement Directorate in West Bengal goes to the looted and poor people of the state. READ MORE

Baltimore Bridge Collapse: Pilot of Cargo Ship Did Everything to Avoid Collision, Indian Crews SOS Saved Many Lives

Maryland Governor Wes Moore praised the Indian crew for their prompt warning before the collision of a cargo ship with the Baltimore bridge on Tuesday morning, which resulted in saving many lives. READ MORE

I Was Cancelled Because I Supported PM Modi: Indian Student On Hate Campaign At London School Of Economics

An Indian studying in the United Kingdom found himself ensnared in a web of slander during the student union elections at the London School of Economics (LSE) for supporting the development of Bharat under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. READ MORE

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 LIVE: Prakash Ambedkar Wont Join MVA, Declares 9 Maharashtra Candidates After Uddhav Announces His 17 Poll Fighters

The Congress Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting is set to take place at the partys headquarters in Delhi on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the grand old partys MP from Ludhiana, Punjab, Ravneet Singh Bittu joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. READ MORE

Still Got it: MS Dhonis Age-defying Diving Catch Has Chepauk Crowd Go Berserk  WATCH

Chennai Super Kings legend, MS Dhoni is showcasing that age is truly just a number as he managed to produce another stellar catch from behind the stumps to get rid of Gujarat Titans Vijay Shankar at the M.A Chidambaram Stadium on Tuesday. READ MORE

ED Seizes Crores of Cash Stuffed In Washing Machine In Forex Violation Probe

The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday seized Rs 2.54 crore in unexplained cash, some of which was found concealed in a washing machine, following searches conducted in multiple cities connected to a case of suspected violation of foreign exchange regulations. READ MORE

Nepal Mayors Daughter Goes Missing From Goa Meditation Retreat, Found Two days Later in Hotel

A 36-year-old woman, the daughter of a mayor in Nepal, who had gone missing from Goa on Monday has been found, police said. The woman, identified as Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city Mayor Gopal Hamals daughter Aarti, was found at a hotel in North Goas Mandrem, authorities said. She had been staying at an Osho meditation centre in Goa for the past few months. READ MORE
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday gave time to the Enforcement Directorate to file a reply on Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwals interim plea seeking release from the custody of the federal agency.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma gave the ED time till April 2 to file the reply and slated the next hearing on April 3.

The High Court also issued a notice on Kejriwals main petition as well as application for interim relief. It noted that the grounds raised in the main and interim pleas were similar.

Additional Solicitor General SV Raju appearing for the ED submitted that Kejriwals counsel had shared the petition with the agency at the last minute, and the Enforcement Directorate needed to file a reply and point out certain facts.

Kejriwal urged the Delhi High Court to order his immediate release from ED custody in connection with a money-laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam, contending that his arrest on the cusp of elections was against the basic structure of the Constitution.

Senior advocate AM Singhvi, appearing for the AAP leader, argued that the Object of the arrest was not to find material but to disable me and my party. My prayer is, release me now.

Singhvi further claimed that there was no necessity to arrest Kejriwal, as mandated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, and that the grounds of non-cooperation were the most abused by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma orally said she would issue a notice on the petition and grant time to the ED to file a reply to it, stating that she would pass an order in the matter and upload it later in the day.

Singhvi urged the court to grant interim relief in the meantime to the Delhi CM by ordering his release. ASG Raju, appearing for the agency, said the bulky petition was served upon them only on Tuesday, and three weeks time should be given to bring their stand on record.

For interim relief as well, appropriate time should be given to respond, he said. Singhvi alleged that the request to file a response was motivated and a delaying tactic.

The challenge is to the foundation of arrest and there are several glaring issues that need immediate decision by the high court either way, the senior lawyer added. Democracy itself is involved. Basic structure is involved. Level playing field is involved. Even an hour spent in custody is far too long if arrest is illegal, Singhvi said.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener, who has sought his immediate release on account of the arrest and the subsequent remand to ED, was arrested on March 21 and subsequently remanded to the agencys custody till March 28 by a Delhi court.

On Friday, the trial court remanded Kejriwal in the EDs custody till March 28 for his detailed and sustained interrogation.

The ED arrested Kejriwal hours after the high court refused to grant him protection from coercive action by the federal anti-money laundering agency. The case pertains to the alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi governments excise policy for 2021-22, which was later scrapped.

(With PTI inputs)
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the son of a Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader of raping a minor girl at her home in West Bengals Nadia district. However, the ruling party in West Bengal refuted the charge and demanded strict action against the culprit.

Police have arrested the 21-year-old accused following a complaint by the victims mother. As per BJP leaders, the accused has been identified as Pintu Biswas, son of a local TMC strongman in Shantipur, Arjun Biswas.

In her complaint, the victims mother said that she was not at home on Monday evening when the accused, who lives in a nearby village arrived, took her daughter forcibly to the cattle shed at home and raped her.

The girl was under treatment in Shaktinagar Sadar Hospital.

BJP Attacks TMC

Referring to the incident, senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari said in a post on X: Another rape of a minor girl in Nadias Shantipur by a TMC leaders son jogs ones memory about what had happened in Hanskhali in Nadia district itself, where a class 9 student was raped in April 2022 during a birthday party at the house of the culprit  a local TMC leaders son.

A minor girl was allegedly raped at a birthday party at the house of the main accused on April 4, 2022. She bled to death later that night, according to her parents who lodged a police complaint on April 9. The main accused, son of a TMC leader, was arrested shortly after the complaint was filed.

Be it Sandeshkhali, Shantipur, Hanskhali or Kaliaganj, sexual crimes perpetrated by TMC leaders and their relatives proves that the culprits are emboldened by the non-existent law ad order situation in the state, Adhikari said in the post.

He claimed these sexual predators do not have any fear of the law.

Adhikari told reporters in Kolkata that attacks on women under TMC rule will be the BJPs main poll plank.

BJP leader Amit Malviya claimed that the father of the accused is a TMC leader of Shantipur.

In a post on X, BJPs IT cell head said TMC is known for sheltering and harbouring sexual predators.

Mamata Banerjee has not only failed the women of Sandeshkhali but Bengal. She has, almost always, provided protection to the perpetrators, including Sheikh Shahjahan. Now Pintu Biswas, son of a local TMC worker Arjun Biswas, raped a 15-year-old minor girl in Santipur, Ranaghat. The victim had lost her father at a very young age, he said in a post.

He also shared a video of the victims uncle, who is a local BJP leader, describing his nieces ordeal.

TMC is known for sheltering and harbouring sexual predators. Mamata Banerjee has not only failed the women of #Sandeshkhali but Bengal. She has, almost always, provided protection to the perpetrators, including Sheikh Shahjahan.Now Pintu Biswas, son of a local TMC worker Arjun pic.twitter.com/NCqCfa8Dfe  Amit Malviya (  ) (@amitmalviya) March 26, 2024

Has TMC stooped so low that they are using rape to spread terror among BJP supporters? Mamata Banerjee is anti-women. She humiliated rape victims of Sandeshkhali also, Malviya added.

TMC Refutes Charges

A district leader of the TMC said the party has nothing to do with the accused or his father and it wants strict action against whoever is found involved in any atrocity on women.

(With PTI Inputs)
Marked on 27 March every year, International Whiskey Day is observed in a bid to celebrate the flavours, diversity and rich history of the widely-consumed drink. Besides that, the day is also observed in the memory of famous Whiskey and beer writer Michael James Jackson, who was born on the same date. People also celebrate the day to show their support for those who suffer from Parkinsons Disease and spread awareness about the same. On the occasion of International Whiskey Day, lets take a look at its history along with some myths, benefits, and health risks associated with Whiskey consumption.

International Whiskey Day: History

International Whiskey Day was first launched in the year 2009 at the Whiskey Day Festival in the northern Netherlands. While it was originally proposed in 2008, it was established in 2009 in the presence of several Whiskey writers at the festival in memory of the beloved British Whiskey writer.

Notably, the date was meticulously chosen to coincide with Michael James Jacksons birthday to commemorate the day. On this day, while people are encouraged to consume Whiskey to celebrate Jacksons life and show their love for the drink, many use the occasion to create awareness about the treatment of Parkinsons Disease, a condition which Jackson suffered for a long time.

Myths about Whiskey

While it is mostly believed that Whiskey can be either consumed neat or on the rocks, it is a very common myth that this is the only way to consume it. In fact, premium Whiskey is designed with versatile flavours, making them ideal for mixing in cocktails. There has been a constant debate about whether blended whiskeys can match up to pure blends. However, the truth is that creating the perfect blended whisk is more of an art than science. If done perfectly, blended Whiskey can be satisfying giving a flavourful drinking experience. There is a popular belief that Whiskey is a winter drink; however, this is not true at all as it can be also a perfect summer drink with combinations like Whiskey Sour, Bourbon Peach Tea, Irish Coffee Milkshake or a simple Whiskey lemonade. These can be a perfect option for a hot summer evening or weekend party. Another common misconception about Whiskey is that all of them taste the same. This is not true at all as each drink has its own set of complexities with unique notes, when tasted neat or mixed with the right element can make a great drink.

Benefits of Whiskey

Made from fermented grains and containing at least 40 per cent alcohol, it is believed that moderate consumption of Whiskey can have potential benefits like relieving cold symptoms. Containing high levels of polyphenols which are also a form of antioxidants, if consumed at moderate levels, Whiskey can help to lower bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol in the body. However, more concrete proof is needed. If consumed in small amounts, Whiskey can help to clear congestion in the sinuses and chest, making it easier for the body to fight off infections or relief from cold or flu symptoms. Like other alcoholic beverages, whiskey can have a relaxing effect on the body and help in reliving stress. However, regular consumption is not advised.

Harmful effects of Whiskey

Despite the aforementioned benefits, excessive consumption of whiskey can have a lot of negative effects on the body.
Alia Bhatt has taken a big step to support a Mumbai-based NGO. The actress will soon be hosting her first Hope Gala in London. Reportedly, the Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani actress will host the event on March 28 in partnership with the Mandarin Oriental hotel group at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London.

With this, Alia will be supporting Salaam Bombay charity, which is focused on engaging Mumbais most vulnerable children through in-school programmes (leadership and advocacy) and after-school academies (skill building) that help build their confidence, and self-esteem and commit them to stay in school.

Alia Bhatts Upcoming Projects

Alia Bhatt will soon be seen in Jigra with Vedang Raina, the shooting of which was recently wrapped up. Alia is not just playing the lead in the film but is also producing it. Previously, in an interview with Film Companion, Alia opened up about venturing into production and shared that it is exciting and overwhelming at the same time.

I believe stories are everywhere, and stories are everything! I turned producer with Eternal Sunshine to tell some of these stories, ones that evoke emotions and leave an impact. Our first production, Darlings, got so much love that it was exciting and overwhelming at the same time, she said.

Just a little over a year later, we are ready to launch our second production  Jigra, a beautiful story of courage, passion and determination. I hope to consistently support compelling narratives that are authentic, and enduringly timeless and work with brilliant creative minds to bring them alive, the 31-year-old actress added.

Besides Jigra, Alia will soon also be seen in Farhan Akhtars Jee Le Zara with Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif. However, its shooting has not started yet. No detail regarding its release is also known as of now.

(With inputs from ANI)
Deepika Padukone has shared a cryptic note about success. On Wednesday, the mom-to-be actress took to her Instagram stories and shared a quote which talked about change and success. Look around where you are; see what you can do to change the definition of success, the quote read. So women coming after you wont feel like they have to choose between success and burnout, it added.

Interestingly, the post comes at a time when Deepika Padukone is also expecting her first child with actor-husband Ranveer Singh. The two announced their pregnancy in February this year when Deepika shared an adorable poster with September 2024 written on it. The poster also had childrens clothes, toys and balloons as the border. Deepika and Ranveer have been married for over five years now.

The pregnancy announcement came weeks after Deepika said that she wanted to have kids with Ranveer. The actress was speaking to Vogue Singapore when she said, Absolutely. Ranveer and I love children. We look forward to the day when we will start our own family.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Deepika Padukone was recently seen in Fighter with Hrithik Roshan. Produced by Viacom18 Studios and Marflix Pictures, the film was a thrilling tale of courage, determination, and love, woven in a storyline filled with action and emotions. The movie delved into the life of an Indian Air Force pilot, portrayed by Hrithik Roshan, and his journey to protect his nation and loved ones.

Next, Deepika has a number of projects in her pipeline. She will soon be sharing the screen with Prabhas in Kalki 2989 AD. The film also stars Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan in a key role. It will hit theatres in May this year. Besides this, Deepika will also be working on the Hindi remake of The Intern with Amitabh Bachchan.
Elvish Yadav seemingly reacted to Munawar Faruquis recent controversy. For the unversed, Munawar was detained after a hookah bar raid in Mumbai. He along with 13 others were questioned by the police and eventually were released. Hours after the news about the raid broke, Elvish shared a cryptic post on X (previously known as Twitter) poking fun at Bigg Boss 17 winner Munawar. He asked if life takes a wrong turn after winning the Salman Khan hosted show.

Biggboss Jeetne Ke Baad Sabka Bura Time Shuru Hojaata Hai Kya, Elvish Yadav shared. Coincidentally, Elvish was also a winner of a Bigg Boss spin-off show. He had won the second season of Bigg Boss OTT. To his misfortune, his life also took a drastic turn after he was named in a snake venom case and was arrested earlier this month.

Biggboss Jeetne Ke Baad Sabka Bura Time Shuru Hojaata Hai Kya Elvish Yadav (@ElvishYadav) March 27, 2024

About Munawar Faruquis Hookah Bar Raid:

On Wednesday morning, ANI reported that Munawar was one of the many detained in the raid. Big Boss 17 winner Munawar Faruqui and 13 others were detained and a case has been registered against them in a hookah bar raid in the Fort area last night. All accused were released after questioning: Mumbai Police, the news agency revealed.

Free Press Journal added that the raid took place in a hookah bar in Mumbais Bora Bazar. A police official said, Our team raided the hookah bar based on information suggesting tobacco use disguised as herbal. We have called in experts to determine the nature of the substances used. Faruqui is among those detained.

About Elvish Yadavs Snake Venom Case:

Elvish Yadav was arrested by Noida Police in a snake poisoning case earlier this month. The case was lodged under provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and for criminal conspiracy under section 120B of the Indian Penal Code, they said. A week later, Yadav was granted bail, on a 50,000 bail bond.

The case first came in the spotlight after a raid was conducted in Noida and snakes along with venom were recovered. At the time, Elvishs name had popped up but the YouTuber denied having any connection with the party or the snakes.
Director Amit Sharma, known for films like Tevar and Badhaai Ho, is currently busy with his upcoming project Maidaan, starring Ajay Devgn and Priyamani. The film, shooting for which started in 2019 and faced delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic, is now scheduled to hit theaters next month. In a recent interview, Sharma discussed his experience working with Ajay Devgn on Maidaan. He revealed that initially, he had reservations about Devgns ability to portray the character of Syed Rahim convincingly. He expressed his doubts, saying, I had a doubt that, How Ajay Devgn will play the role of Syed Rahim? In my mind, my image of Ajay Devgn was of Singham, And Syed Rahim doesnt have an upright posture (like that of Singham).

However, Sharmas perception changed after an interaction with Devgn before filming began. He recalled meeting the actor and telling him that he doesnt see many dialogues of him in the film as the protagonist, Syed Rahim talks less. After the script was done, he asked Devgn to listen to the narration and about Syed Abdul Rahim, to which Devgn agreed.

So I gave him a narration. And he just said tell me what I am supposed to do. He is a directors actor. He doesnt ask questions; the Director has said this, it is like this. And I saw the transformation of this man from Singham to Syed Abdul Rahim. So I say this openly  Apart from him, nobody else could do this role. He is such an amazing actor, Sharma explained to Pinkvilla.

He further praised Devgns professionalism and punctuality on set, saying he could not believe what he saw onscreen and Devgns transformation. He also mentioned that Devgn himself credited Sharma for this and said, It is coming out naturally because you have given such a world around me, and the script is such that it has made my life easy. He is a quality actor.

Sharma further added that they had a lot of discussions and spoke about the character. He is a directors actor. He is professional, he is punctual, he is on-time. No questions asked, just there for you.

Maidaan, which shows Devgns remarkable performance as Syed Rahim, is set to release in theaters on April 10, 2024.
As fans eagerly await the next part of the beloved Disney adventure franchise, producer Jerry Bruckheimer has dropped a major hint, suggesting that the next installment of Pirates of the Caribbean will be a reboot, instead of a straight sequel. Bruckheimer is known for producing each of the five Pirates movies that featured Johnny Depp in the iconic role of Captain Jack Sparrow. While fans were anticipating Depps return for the next film, Bruckheimers recent statement also suggests that the actor might not be a part of it anymore.

In a conversation with ComicBook[dot]com, Bruckheimer, while answering questions about the future of his hit franchises, which also include the Tom Cruise starrer Top Gun series, said that it is hard to know how things will come together for the film. With Top Gun, you have an actor who is iconic and brilliant. And how many movies he does before he does Top Gun, I cant tell you. But were going to reboot Pirates, so that is easier to put together because you dont have to wait for certain actors, he said.

The remarks clearly indicate that the makers might not wait for Johnny Depp to clear dates for working on the next Pirates film and that they will go ahead with some new faces. Notably, this comes at a time when Depps relationship with Disney remains strained following his involvement in a defamation trial with his ex-wife, Amber Heard. Although the trial verdict came in his favour, the actors return to the action-fantasy film franchise remains uncertain.

So far about the upcoming Pirates films

In 2020, it was reported that Disney was in early development on two Pirates films, including a reboot with Margot Robbie in the lead role and another one in the original franchise written by Craig Mazin and Ted Elliott. Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, Mazin said that the script for Pirates of the Caribbean 6 is weird.

We pitched it and thought theres no way theyre buying it; its too weird. And they did! And then, we wrote a fantastic script, and the strike happened, and everyones waiting around, he added.

Talking about the five Pirates films, they have grossed over $650 million globally, with 2006s Dead Mans Chest and 2011s On Stranger Tides both topping the $1 billion mark. Following the release of the fifth film, discussions about the sixth installment started making the rounds.
A biopic on the American songwriter Bruce Springsteens life is in its early stages, and it appears that some famous celebrities are already vying for roles. As per the latest reports, The Bear fame Jeremy Allen White is in talks to play Bruce Springsteen in an upcoming biopic, which is reportedly titled Deliver Me From Nowhere. Reportedly, no deals have been finalised yet between the makers and the actor, but some of the most celebrated names in the industry are involved in the production.

The film Deliver Me From Nowhere is based on Warren Zanes 2023 book titled Deliver Me From Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteens Nebraska and will centre on the creation of Bruce Springsteens 1982 record, Nebraska. Scott Cooper is adapting the script and is expected to direct it as well. The project is being developed by Gotham Group, with Eric Robinson and Ellen Goldsmith-Vein serving as producers. Former Netflix film chief Scott Stuber is also working on the film adaptation of Deliver Me From Nowhere. Reportedly, even A24 is behind this much anticipated biopic.

The film is expected to follow Bruce Springsteens journey to create his sixth studio album. Nebraska was released two years before his blockbuster hit Born in the USA, which came out in 1984. Nebraska ranked No. 150 in Rolling Stones 2020 list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

Jeremy Allen White appeared alongside Zac Efron in last years A24 wrestling-themed film The Iron Claw, following his role as Carmy on FXs The Bear. He earned a Golden Globe, an Emmy, and a SAG Award for his role in The Bear. He is currently filming Seasons 3 and 4 of the series in Chicago.

Meanwhile, Bruce Springsteen will earn one of the greatest distinctions in songwriting: Fellowship of the Ivors Academy. The artist will be the first American musician to receive the award, which acknowledges works that have impacted the cultural fabric of the United Kingdom. Only 24 other people have ever been awarded the fellowship, including Sir Elton John, Sir Paul McCartney, and Kate Bush. Bruce Springsteen was born into a working-class family in New Jersey in 1949 and was reportedly motivated to pursue music after watching Elvis Presley on the Ed Sullivan Show.
koreKim Sae-ron, best known for her role in the 2023 web series Bloodhounds, refused to comment on her viral photograph with actor Kim Soo-hyun. On March 24, Kim Sae-ron dropped an intimate close-up picture with Queen Of Tears star Kim Soo-hyun on her Instagram stories. Although she was quick to delete the snap, the click did not evade the eagle eyes of fans. Speculations over Kim Sae-ron and Kim Soo-hyuns equation started spreading like wildfire across social media platforms, with the masses being curious to know if anything was brewing between the two.

Although Kim Sae-ron had earlier promised to release a statement regarding the controversial click, she has now denied making any remark. In an interaction with My Daily, the actress stated she arrived at her decision of keeping silent after giving much thought to the subject. I really thought hard to myself and I feel that it would help me to be silent. I will not be making a statement and will no longer comment, she said. The now-viral photo captured Kim Sae-ron and Kim Soo-hyun sharing the same frame.

Kim Sae Ron recently shared a photo of herself and Kim Soo Hyun on social media, but quickly removed it shortly after posting. pic.twitter.com/HXIwCsph1r  (@sug4rnspice) March 23, 2024

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Fans of Kim Sae-ron were displeased over the actress decision not to address the photograph as promised earlier, reported Koreaboo. They lashed out at her on social media with hateful remarks. While one person wanted to know, What is she hiding that she needs to do all of this for? another highlighted, She seems thrilled to be getting attention. Why cant she just say she posted on the wrong account? Whats so hard? commented a third contemptuous individual.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by  (@ron_sae)

According to a close associate of Kim Sae-ron, the actress was going through a difficult time and the secrecy behind the photograph was due to a complicated story that she cant talk about, reported Koreaboo. Kim Sae-ron and Kim Soo-hyuns age difference could also be the reason why the picture became the talk of the town. Kim Soo-hyun, 23, is 13 years younger than Kim Soo-hyun, 36.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by  Kim Soo Hyun  (@soohyun_k216)

Meanwhile, Kim Soo-hyuns agency GOLDMEDALIST released a statement where the company rubbished the rumours of the actor dating Kim Sae-ron.
Sanjay Patil, famous for his role as Uday Shirke-Patil in the hit Marathi show, Sukh Mhanje Nakki Kay Asta, welcomed a baby girl on the occasion of Holi. The actor and his wife took to their official social media handles to share the joyous news.

Marathi actor Sanjay Patil and his wife Aboli Gokhale welcomed a baby girl in their lives, on the auspicious occasion of Holi. The couple took to their official Instagram handle to share the good news. They posted a heartwarming photo of their newborn daughters tiny hands, gripping her mothers finger, as her fathers palm protects them both. Captioned in Marathi, the words roughly translate to, Holi Purnima was celebrated yesterday. Celebrations of the gojiri fairy came into our life. Its a baby girl!!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Abolee A. (@abolee_ssanjaay)

The fans flooded the comments section with well wishes. Many fans shared, Congratulations. One fan wrote, So sweet..congratulations both of you. Welcome fairy. Another fan shared, Congratulations to the parents and god bless the little one.

Last month in February, the actor announced his wifes pregnancy through a series of photos from their baby shower celebration. The images were from his wife Abolis Marathi-style baby shower where the mother is dressed with flowers and given all the food she craves during her pregnancy. The two chose to be in their best traditional attires for the occasion. Aboli wore a traditional Marathi look, adorning herself with flowers on her wrists, ears and neck, while Sanjay looked handsome in a pink-hued, printed kurta.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marathi TRP (@trpmarathi)

Sanjay Patil and Aboli Gokhale tied the knot on March 28, 2022. The intimate ceremony was attended by Sukh Mhanje Nakki Kay Asta cast, which included the lead Girija Prabhu, Maadhavi Nemkar, and Kapil Honrao.

Sanjay Patils most notable role was in the Marathi show Sukh Mhanje Nakki Kay Asta. He was seen in the role of an antagonistic character Uday Shirke-Patil.
It seems like troubles continue to mount for Bigg Boss winners. Following Elvish Yadavs recent arrest and subsequent release on bail, Munawar Faruqui, winner of Bigg Boss 17, has found himself in a legal problem. Stand-up comedian and reality TV star Munawar Faruqui was among 14 individuals were detained during a police raid at a hookah parlour in Mumbai, as reported by authorities on Wednesday.

Munawar was later released, according to a statement from a Mumbai police official quoted by news agency ANI. The police revealed that the hookah parlour, located in Mumbais Fort area, was operating unlawfully. During the raid conducted on Tuesday, authorities seized Rs 4,400 in cash and nine hookah pots valued at Rs 13,500, as per a report in NDTV.

As per ANI, Big Boss 17 winner Munawar Faruqui and 13 others were detained and a case has been registered against them in a hookah bar raid in the Fort area last night. All accused were released after questioning: Mumbai Police.

Big Boss 17 winner Munawar Faruqui and 13 others were detained and a case has been registered against them in a hookah bar raid in the Fort area last night. All accused were released after questioning: Mumbai Police ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

Not long back, Munawar Faruqui shared his reaction to Elvish Yadav getting bail in the snake venom case. The YouTuber, who had won Bigg Boss OTT 2, was granted bail after he was taken into custody on March 17, Sunday. Following his bail, Munawar spoke with a group of paparazzi when he was asked about his thoughts on Elvishs bail. The comedian said he could understand his feelings and was glad that he got a bail.

This is not the first time that the comedian has had a brush with the law. In 2021, he spent over a month in the Indore central jail. He was arrested for allegedly hurting religious sentiments during a comedy show. The comedian was granted bail days a month after his arrest.
Nayanthara often drops pictures of her twins, Uyir and Ulag on social media. On Wednesday too, the Jawan actress took to her Instagram handle and shared a series of adorable photos in which she and Vignesh Shivan were seen spending some quality time with their sons. The couple held their twins in their arms as they shared a hearty laugh.

In the caption of her post, Nayanthara revealed that Vignesh wasnt home for the last few days due to his work commitment. Therefore, the pictures were taken when he returned home from work. Cant explain how we three felt when we saw u after a long 20 days of schedule! We really missed you! I Love you my everything , she wrote. Check it out here:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by N A Y A N T H A R A (@nayanthara)

Earlier this week, Vignesh took to his social handle and shared a series of photos of his wife Nayanthara with his sons Uyir and Ulag. In the photos, he was seen kissing his sons. Getting back home to my Uyirs & Ulagams after an unforgettable shooting experience in Singapore & Malaysia! Cant wait to embrace and take in all the love thats been waiting at home for weeks together, he wrote.

Nayanthara and Vignesh Shivan tied the knot on June 9, 2022. They had an intimate wedding ceremony in Mahabalipuram, outside of Chennai. Several stars including Rajinikanth, Shah Rukh Khan, Ajith Kumar and Vijay Sethupathi attended their wedding. The couple welcomed their twin sons via surrogacy in October 2022.

Earlier this year, rumours of trouble in their marriage made headlines after fans noticed that the Jawan actress had unfollowed her husband. However, an insider close to the couple later revealed that Nayanthara and Vignesh are going strong and are cherishing every moment with their twin children.
There is no doubt that James Bond is one of the most iconic characters in the cinema. Since 1962, when the first Bond movie was released, seven actors have played the savvy spy in high-budget action thrillers. In 2021, actor Daniel Craig concluded his 15-year tenure as James Bond with No Time to Die. Now the makers are on the lookout for the next 007 spy. In recent weeks, many candidates like Rege-Jean Page, Henry Cavill, Tom Hardy, Richard Madden, Idris Elba, Henry Golding, James Norton and Aaron Taylor-Johnson have been touted as the next possible James Bond. Now it is being speculated that British actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been offered the iconic role, even though it has not been confirmed either by the makes of the Bond film or Aaron Taylor-Johnsons agency.

Recently, former James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan appeared on RTE Radio 1s The Ray DArcy Show. When he was asked about his opinion of Aaron Taylor-Johnson taking up the legendary role, Brosnan gave his blessings to the 33-year-old actor. I think the man has the chops and the talent and the charisma to play Bond, very much so, Brosnan said of Taylor-Johnson. He also recalled working with Taylor-Johnson on the 2009 film The Greatest and said, One of the first movies we made, one of the earliest movies, was The Greatest, and he was the greatest in it. So, yes, I read the news about his possibility of being a Bond, so I would definitely tip my hat to the fellow.

Brosnan has acted in four James Bond films, namely GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough, and Die Another Day. Previously in a BBC interview, Brosnan had endorsed Oscar-winning actor Cillian Murphy as James Bond and said, Cillian would do a magnificent job as James Bond on His Majestys Secret Service.

Another former James Bond actor, George Lazenby approved of Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Lazenby told TMZ he believed Taylor-Johnson can handle the stunts and all the ladies who love a man in a tux.

Despite being a lucrative and prestigious role, many actors do not want to sign as James Bond because the role comes with a long commitment and terms. In 2022, Bond producer Barbara Broccoli spoke to Variety about the role and said, When we cast Bond, its a 10 to 12-year commitment. She added, Not everybody wants to do that. It was hard enough getting Daniel Craig to do it.
Sandalwood actor Ramya has opted out of the film Uttarakaanda, which was supposed to mark her return to the Kannada film industry. The film, directed by Rohit Padaki and featuring Dhananjaya in the lead role, will no longer feature Ramya. Her exit from the project has garnered attention from fans and industry insiders alike.

Ramya gave a voice-over in the North Karnataka dialect for the teaser of the film Uttarakaanda and received a positive response. However, she announced her exit from the project due to scheduling conflicts. In her post, she mentioned that her film and political commitments have been put on hold. She wished the team the best of luck with the project.

Her decision to pull out of Uttarakaanda has left her fans upset. They were expecting to see her come back as an actress. The team is now looking for a replacement actor after Ramyas exit. The movie was scheduled to begin shooting this year.

Ramya was initially set to star in Swathi Mutthina Male Haniye. But she decided to quit the acting role. Instead, she took on the role of producer for the film. Swathi Mutthina Male Haniye received excellent reviews from critics and audiences alike.

In a recent interview with Times of India, she stressed that the script is quintessential. When she got the script from Raj and read it, she thought a newcomer would fit the role better. Raj agreed because he believed it was better for the movie. So, they chose Siri Ravikumar for the role.

Directed by Sharath Manjunath and Rohith Padaki, the film stars Shivarajkumar, Atul Kulkarni, and Dhananjaya in pivotal roles. With music composed by Charan Raj, the cinematography of the film is handled by Advaitha Gurumurthy. Meanwhile, the film is produced by Karthik Gowda and Yogi G Raj.

Ramya made her acting debut with the film Abhi in Kannada cinema. She was last seen in the 2016 film Nagarahavu. She held the position of Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha from Mandya, Karnataka. The actress is known for her work primarily in Kannada and Tamil language films.
The First Omen hosted its premiere on Wednesday in the US and 20th Century Studios invited a few critics and fans to watch the film with creators, cast and crew. Following the screening, fans took to their social media platforms and shared their reviews. While some of them hailed the cinematography calling it literally to die for!, others loved Nell Tiger Frees captivating performance along with the utterly chilling premise of The First Omen. Many fans also said that the upcoming horror film stood true to its OG films of the Omen franchise.

The 1976 version of The Omen had some chilling & controversial scenes, and #TheFirstOmen raises the bar. The film is a worthy prequel to the original. The First Omen is creepy, eerie, and unsettling. Theres one scene in particular that is bound to have people talking, Joseph Deckelmeier of Screen Rant said.

Mike Ryan of Uproxx wrote on X, So, Im a big fan of Arkasha Stevensons THE FIRST OMEN. I truly *love* the first three Omen movies and I *love* how this one ends right at the beginning of Richard Donners 1976 THE OMEN. Its the ROGUE ONE of Omen movies.

Check out other reactions below:

The entire cast is wholly committed here, but Nell Tiger Free commands the screen. The physicality she taps into in THE FIRST OMEN is visceral. What is most damning  for better or worse  is how timely and timeless the overarching motivation is here for the horror. #TheFirstOmen pic.twitter.com/3YrXVQzdx0 Sarah Musnicky (@sarahmusnicky) March 27, 2024

THE FIRST OMEN stunned me. An incredibly thoughtful and shattering look at sexual assault in the Catholic Church while also providing the tension of the original film. This is the religious horror Ive been waiting for. Exquisitely repulsive. Also 10/10 Possession homage. pic.twitter.com/wYWf0s2dxc  Mary Beth McAndrews (@mbmcandrews) March 27, 2024

The First Omen: Holy Hell. I'd expect a horror this unrepentantly ghoulish from a small studio, not 20th Century. Graphic, grisly, and with a protracted homage to Possession. pic.twitter.com/BYnZBiYR5F Richard Whittaker (@YorkshireTX) March 27, 2024

The First Omen is a mix of Rosemarys Baby & The Handmaids Tale. Its disturbing and dark. It feels very European rather than a Hollywood production. Nell Tiger Free is captivating. Although its been a while since watching the 1976 movie, it triggers callbacks. #screening pic.twitter.com/rD1ckxWsK6 CineMovie TV (@CineMovie) March 27, 2024

Directed by Arkasha Stevenson, The First Omen is based on characters created by David Seltzer. This psychological horror features Nell Tiger Free, Tawfeek Barhom, Sonia Braga, Ralph Ineson, with Charles Dance, and Bill Nighy in pivotal roles.
Balochistan is on fire. Three major attacks have happened since the beginning of this year on Pakistan-China installations in Balochistan. In the latest attack, which took place on the night of March 25 this year, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) fighters reportedly breached the security perimeter of PNS Siddique, Pakistans second-largest naval air station at Turbat. The BLA has claimed to have killed 12 Pakistani security personnel. The official version of the Pakistan Army said one security personnel was killed while four BLA fighters were neutralised. Earlier, a massive attack happened at Gwadar Port on March 20 and at Mach town on January 29.

The last two attacks indicate a pattern that BLA is now targeting officials and assets from both Pakistan and China. They see them as partners in crime when it comes to the loot and plunder of resources of Balochistan through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These attacks should be seen as a clear rejection of the CPEC by the Baloch population.

Why Black Day on March 27?

After India was partitioned and Pakistan came into existence, the region experienced a short span of sovereignty of 277 days during which Pakistani authorities resorted to deceit, manipulation, and treachery. Primarily known as the state of Kalat and having the status of a sovereign state during British rule, it aspired for independence. However, this yearning for self-rule was met with staunch opposition and duplicity from Pakistan.

The Khan of Kalat, seeking legal guidance from Muhammad Ali Jinnah, inadvertently laid the groundwork for his own downfall. Initially bolstered by Jinnah in his pursuit of independence, the Khan of Kalat soon found himself betrayed as Pakistan manoeuvred to assert dominance over Balochistan. Despite assurances of respecting Baloch sovereignty, Pakistan, with British backing, schemed to undermine Kalats independence. As pressure mounted, the Khan of Kalat found himself isolated, encountering dissent from within his own ranks and diplomatic coercion from Pakistan. Refusing to capitulate to Pakistani demands for amalgamation, the Khan endeavoured to garner support from Baloch leaders and fortify his military stance. But these endeavours proved futile as Pakistan, bolstered by British interests, orchestrated a concerted effort to dismantle Kalats autonomy. The subsequent proclamation of the separation of pivotal territories from Kalat further weakened the latters position, rendering it isolated and susceptible to Pakistani coercion.

Pakistan military invaded the state of Kalat on March 27, 1948, and illegally annexed it after a bloodbath. The bloodstained chronicles of Balochistan with Pakistan stand testament to the enduring struggle for autonomy and the unyielding pursuit of freedom amidst adversity.

Multiple Insurgencies

The coercive annexation of Kalat into Pakistan ignited deep-seated grievances and dissent among the Baloch populace. Numerous Baloch nationalists perceived this annexation as an affront to their autonomy and an attack on their cultural heritage. They rallied behind Prince Abdul Karim, the Khan of Kalats brother in 1948, yet their insurgency was swiftly suppressed by the Pakistani military, resulting in Prince Karims incarceration.

Despite subsequent uprisings in 1958, 1962, and the early 1970s, the Pakistani state succeeded in quelling the resistance. In 2005, the Baloch movement experienced a resurgence when Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti, a former Pakistani defence minister and governor of Balochistan, took up arms against the state. Bugtis demands, including greater control over Balochistans natural resources, thrust him into direct confrontation with the formidable Pakistani Army. Nevertheless, Bugti met his demise the following year, under suspicious circumstances and the needle of doubt pointed towards General Pervez Musharraf, Pakistans then-military ruler. In retribution, a rocket assault targeted Musharraf shortly after Bugtis demise.

Once a proud bastion of independence, Balochistan now languishes as Pakistans most forsaken and impoverished province, despite its substantial contributions to the nations economy by virtue of its abundant mineral wealth.

Coercion of the Baloch populace

The Baloch populace has been trying to raise its voice, because of which they are increasingly bearing the brunt of the states actions. The Baloch populace residing within the territorial confines of Pakistan is being subjected to mass violations of human rights, including extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances, and instances of torture, carried out by state security apparatus in coordination with affiliated entities.

According to findings disclosed by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), spanning the period from 2003 to 2019, no fewer than 7,000 individuals in Balochistan were either killed or abducted by the government authorities. A significant proportion of them were political and social activists, students, and intellectuals. In a similar indictment of the Pakistani authorities, the Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) contended that since the inception of the new millennium in 2001, a cohort approximating 8,000 Baloch individuals has encountered enforced disappearance, with a substantial number presumed to have succumbed to fatal outcomes. Records furnished by Amnesty International for the temporal span encompassing 2010 to 2016 attest to the culpability of state security forces in the deaths of over 1,000 Baloch individuals, while more than 600 individuals remain unaccounted for. Additionally, the same report shares in detail the rampant torture of Baloch detainees, resulting in a large number of them succumbing to their injuries.

Baloch activist Munir Mengal delivered an impassioned discourse before the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on March 19, 2023, wherein he unveiled the profundity of injustices perpetrated against the Baloch populace, citing a disconcerting report disseminated by a non-governmental organisation. This dossier meticulously chronicled 787 instances, inclusive of 101 women and 63 children below the age of 13, who were subjected to torture, ruthless coercion and control. Remarkably, the unearthing of 31 disfigured cadavers belonging to disappeared individuals serves as a poignant testament to the gravity of these transgressions. Regrettably, a mere 96 individuals managed to secure their release, leaving a plethora of others to endure unfathomable adversities.

Unable to harness the regions potential, Pakistan has turned to its ally China to exploit Balochistans resources. However, this alliance has exacerbated tensions, culminating in assaults by Baloch militants against Chinese nationals in Gwadar, the pivotal port city crucial to the CPEC. The integration of Gwadar into CPEC has instilled fears among the Balochs of demographic upheavals and marginalisation within their own province. Despite efforts to portray figures like Anwarul Haq Kakar, a Pashtun leader, as representatives of Balochistan, there is growing discontent in this region. This discontent is getting reflected through armed resistance of the Baloch groups resulting in heavy casualties for the Pakistani establishment. Unfortunately, the absence of democratic institutions in this region and Pakistan as a whole doesnt leave much scope for a peaceful resolution of the Baloch problem.

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.
Demand politics by Indian Muslims is the political strategy where Indian Muslims advocate for their rights, representation, and protection against perceived discrimination and projected marginalisation. This approach involves demanding equal opportunities in areas such as employment, education, housing, and political power. So basically, demand politics involves advocating for specific rights and representation based on identity. Syed Zubair Ahmad, editor of Muslim Mirror, published an article, Should Indian Muslims withdraw from demand politics? a few days ago. In the article Maulana Maududi, the Jamaat-e-Islami ideologue, has been invoked by the editor, claiming that he asked Muslims to withdraw from political rivalry for a decade post-Partition to prevent the polarisation of Hindu masses against Muslims.

Quoting Maududi is not a problem, even the late Tarek Fatah quoted the Jamaat ideologue while making a case against the concept of an Islamic State, which his studies showed was not part of the core message that the Prophet gave to early Muslims in his lifetime. In his book, Chasing the Mirage: The Tragic Illusion of an Islamic State, Maududis writings have been used to argue against an Islamic State or separate homeland, because according to Islamists, the whole of India is for Muslims. Syed Zubair attempted to exonerate the man behind the two-nation theory, and it was a tad difficult for me to believe Maududi advocated Muslims giving up their demand politics. Syed Zubairs obscurantism is further revealed in the article, as he keeps referring to the unprecedented surge in majoritarian politics fuelled by the ideology of Hindutva  his words.

I wonder why the cultural resurgence of Hindus or Bharat is seen as a threat to the 20 crore Muslim minority in India, protected by the Constitution and the secular ethos of India since Independence, despite the bloody Partition of Bharat into East and West Pakistan. Hamid Dalwai, the angry young secularist from Maharashtra, a rationalist, and a humanist, often said Hindu communalism was a reaction to Muslim communalism. If Muslim communalism is rectified, the Hindus will revert to their tolerant and secular behaviour. Did the Muslims not think that wearing their religion on their sleeves all the time would eventually elicit a response from most Hindus once they learned about the invasions and conquests by Islamic invaders? Did the agenda groups and vulture activists with their funding from anti-India forces not think that this in-your-face Islamism for a century would not be copied by the Hindus? Do the intellectual activists ever reprimand the we were once rulers mindset of their ummah, videos of which go viral almost every week?

The advent of technology and social media enabled the majority of Hindus to make connections between events and recognise patterns of bad behaviour among Muslims. Yet in the article, Syed Zubairs entire rationale is that it is okay for Muslims to be bigots towards the majority, but the Hindu way of life cannot be expressed, because it would encroach on the personal space of Muslims. The recent incident of Muslim youth thrashing a Hindu shopkeeper for playing the Hanuman Chalisa aloud during the azaan is one such incident in a series of micro and macro aggressions, bigotry, and intolerant behaviour by radicals and extremists in the 20-crore minority population of Indian Muslims.

The usual tactics of twisting the statements of the RSS ideologues, which were an outreach to build bridges in an interfaith attempt, is normal for vulture activists or agenda groups, who are funded by anti-India forces for the disinformation warfare in India. Syed Zubair writes that the Hindus need the scapegoat of Muslims and that this continuous reiteration of India being incomplete without Muslims is a Hindu upper-caste agenda to promote casteism. Syed Zubair conveniently forgets that the caste system has existed amongst Muslims too, since 632 AD when the first rightly-guided Caliph Abu Bakr in his speech laid the claim that only the Meccan Arabs to succeed the Prophet, going against the core message of Islam  everyone regardless of race, creed, gender, or status was equal. The Ashraf elite, of the Indian subcontinent, try to trace their lineage to those Meccan Arabs, clearly practising a casteist or dhimmi attitude towards the indigenous converts of Bharat/Hind  the Pasmandas.

That ordinary Hindus do not have a threat from extremist Muslims has been repeated ad nauseam throughout the dishonest piece, never once mentioning the internal insurgency of the PFI cadres against the Indian state, the Kashmiri secessionist groups trying for a merger with Pakistan, the sar tan se juda crowd baying for the blood of blasphemers or the cases of Muslim men entrapping Hindu women, or the scores of Muslim perpetrators committing gruesome crimes on Hindu families, solely because of their religious identity. Construction of the Ram Mandir was an abomination for the agenda activists while the demand for more waqf land, more madrasas/mosques, or retaining the academic bastions that created the idea of Pakistan is the demand politics of Muslims. Religious symbolism in parliamentary proceedings is seen as an affront while it is okay if the Muslims bring in religious motifs in every sphere of public life.

Documentation of illegals, streamlining of madrasas to upgrade to 21st-century curricula, creating a database on sleeper cells of al-Qaeda, Lashkar-e-Taiba or Kashmiri hybrid terrorists, bringing in reforms to Muslim Personal Laws and the UCC is seen as the exclusion of Muslims from the political mainstream, as well as their marginalisation and persecution. At the end of the article, Syed Zubair gives the solution of an ideological movement to the traditional demand politics as if the Wahabi and Salafi ideas that destroyed entire regions in the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent werent enough. He also advocates a self-supporting system, providing a smokescreen for the intifada ecosystem that already exists in the form of journalists, fact-checkers, columnists, academicians, activists, influencers, and the civil society comprising of Left-liberal jamaat, and the useful idiots from Hindu heritage.

The former intellectualises terror and provides cover fire for crimes, violence, bigotry, and intolerance from the Muslim side. Of course, Syed Zubair uses the politically correct terminology of self-reflection, introspection, ethics, moral standards, accountability, leadership, blah, blah, etc in his piece, which colours it up as a progressive one. But it is another example of obscurantism, which Hamid Dalwai, the 20th-century Indian rationalist and stalwart of objectivity and critical thinking recognised among the Indian Muslims in the 1970s and called them out for it. This penchant to mislead gullible Hindus and browbeat the silent rational majority within the Muslim community is what has kept some sections of 20 crore Muslims backward and useful for agenda activists, the ulema and the politicians and, hence, no bridges were built in the last 70-plus years post-Independence. At least, now a start can be made if the truth is acknowledged, and self-introspection becomes a norm in a critical-thinking culture.

Muslims should not only be withdrawing from their specific demand politics, but demand things essential for every citizen of India, regardless of caste, creed, and identity. Not everything has to revolve around Islam and the Muslimness of individuals. Demand politics and constant participation in the Oppression Olympics will not change the circumstances of many ordinary Muslim families under the grip of fanatics, extremists, and radicals. The gruesome murder of the two children in Badaun, Uttar Pradesh by a Muslim barber this week, with no prior animosity, is an indicator.

(The author is a writer and an educationist from Srinagar. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views)
News of actress Kangana Ranaut winning the BJP nomination from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh has rattled a section of Bollywood bigwigs who see her emergence as a political force a threat to their business and other interests. The fear is that if she gets into the parliament, she will definitely go hammer and tongs against those people and political parties who harassed her post Sushant Singh Rajputs death.

Kangana, throughout 2020, had alleged that actor Sushant Singh Rajput was killed as he knew some dirty secrets about Bollywood. At one stage, she had even offered to cooperate with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). The controversy relating to Rajputs death died down subsequently but Kangana became a factional person within the Mumbai film world. At another level, her feud with actor Hrithik Roshan was the nastiest battle in the history of the Indian film industry which had impacted many powerful dynasties in Hindi films.

If Kangana wins the Mandi Lok Sabha, which many pollsters and political analysts view as a near certainty, she would be the third woman Bollywood megastar after Vyjayanthimala and Hema Malini to be winning the parliamentary polls. Several of her male counterparts, namely Sunil Dutt, Vinod Khanna and Shatrughan Sinha not only hold the distinction of a successful transition from reel to the real world of politics but also of adorning ministerial berths. Can Kangana score over Hema Malini and Vyjayanthimala on this count too, i.e. getting a ministerial berth in the next round of Narendra Modis council of ministers? Privately, Bollywood insiders see it as a real possibility.

Interestingly, among the many Bollywood A-listers, Kangana continues to be unpopular not only for her brand of Hindutva. For instance, today Kangana may be a huge style icon and is considered one of the best-dressed women in the industry. However, in her extraordinary journey from small town to Bollywood A-lister, she had to face many seemingly insurmountable odds. Her English pronunciation and fashion sense were constantly ridiculed. Some industry observers think it was because of her background that many top actresses and their spouses who claim to be style icons themselves, had shunned her.

Like many from Narendra Modis New India small-town success stories, Kangana has turned the tables on those who believed that outsiders do not last in Bollywood. From 2019 onwards, Kangana consciously turned political when she began taking a jibe at the Indian National Congress, saying that India turned truly independent under Prime Minister Modi. On the eve of the 17th Lok Sabha polls, Kangana had said, I feel India is gaining its independence in the real sense of the term today. Because before this, we were servants of the Mughal, British and Italian governments. So please exercise your right and vote. Then too, some politically inclined persons in Bollywood had mocked her, pointing out that she badly needed basic lessons in history and political science.

Kangana, however, remained unfazed and often accused the media of siding with the Kapoor, Khan, Roshan, Johar and Bachchan clans despite her phenomenal success and talent. This was an erroneous and fallacious charge. In fact, throughout the Hrithik Roshan episode, both electronic and print media had been giving a splash to each word spoken by her and her sister cum manager, Rangoli.

Kanganas struggle to find acceptance from Bollywoods iconic families improved when she, much like Priyanka Chopra, developed an I do not care attitude towards the high and mighty of Bollywood. She realised, perhaps a bit in a hard way, that the more a person hankers after acceptance, the less acceptance s/he gets.

How would Kangana behave after June 4, 2024, as an elected parliamentarian? She is unlikely to sober down or stop making sensational, jaw-dropping statements.

The writer is a Visiting Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation. A well-known political analyst, he has written several books, including 24 Akbar Road and Sonia: A Biography. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Writing for gCaptain on December 19, 2023, Mike Schuler reported that the European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) was closely monitoring the situation of the hijacked Maltese-flagged MV Ruen in cooperation with local Somali authorities. The ship was en route from Gwangyang in South Korea, carrying a cargo of metals, and was hijacked on the morning of December 14 in the Indian Ocean at approximately 680 nautical miles (1,260 km), east of Bossaso in Somalia. At this stage, the exact demands, motivations, etc, of the hijackers were unknown.

EUNAVFOR flagship, a Spanish Navy ship ESPS Victoria was dispatched to gather more information and evaluate future action in conjunction with other naval ships in the area. Victoria remained with MV Ruen and entered Somali waters somewhere between Eyl and Xaafun peninsula in Somalia (normal hijack area).

With the help of Somali authorities, it was confirmed that MV Ruen had been hijaked. Thus, this became the first successful hijacking involving Somali pirates since 2017. It may be recalled that an earlier attempt by five Somali pirates was thwarted by the Indian Navy.

On December 15, an Indian Navy P8 I Maritime Patrol Aircraft arrived in the area and established contact with the crew who were safely locked up in a citadel. Victoria was joined by the Japanese naval ship Akebono and the Indian Navy destroyer INS Kochi on 16 December.

It is important to remember that these hijacking attempts come amid the broader maritime security situation in the Red Sea as Yemen-based Houthis target commercial ships in the region in support of Hamas in Gaza.

Later, the pirates broke into the citadel and took the crew hostage. One of the crew was evacuated for a medical emergency.

MV Ruen is being managed by Bulgarias Navigation Maritime Bulgare.

The Somalian government permitted the shadowing of Ruen even within their territorial waters. Victoria was using its UAV, Scan Eagle to obtain situational awareness by collecting data on the hijacked vessel. However, MV Ruen left this area for some logistics and other replenishment. It was not under the control of the crew.

MV Ruen after having been taken over by pirates would have been used as a mother ship for other piracy attempts as had been the trend. INS Kolkata replaced INS Kochi during the movement of MV Ruen. And then the next 40 hours of actions will go down in the history of anti-piracy/hijacking operations as a text and standard operating procedure worth emulation by the navies of the world. When INS Kolkata began the operation, the MV Ruen was almost 2,600 km (1,400 nautical miles) from the Indian coast. Calibrated actions of INS Kolkata were supported by INS Subhadra, high altitude long endurance unmanned aerial vehicle, P8 I maritime patrol aircraft and MARCOS (Marine Commandos) air-dropped by a C17 aircraft of the Indian Air Force.

These actions had become necessary since the pirates had opened fire on the warship INS Kolkata while they were being warned to surrender or face consequences. The actions taken by the Indian Navy were under international law, ie, in self-defence and to counter piracy/hijacking attempts with the application of minimal force necessary to neutralise the pirates threat to shipping and seafarers.

After having left the territorial waters, MV Ruen was flying no flag (Maltese flag was hauled down). It implied that the ship was stateless and, hence, treated as a pirate ship ex Ruen. Actions were taken per international law against pirate and stateless ships and in self-defence as the vessel committed a hostile act against the Indian Navy by firing at the ship.

After forceful negotiation by INS Kolkata, the MARCOS using Combat Rubberized Raiding Craft (CRRC) boarded the MV Ruen. The commandos sanitised the ship and ensured the safety of 17 crew members (seven Bulgarians, eight Myanmarese and two Angolans), and forced the surrender of 35 pirates.

Bulgarian owner Navibulgar hailed MV Ruens release as a major success not only for us but for the entire global maritime community. He went on to say that resolution of this case proves that the security of commercial shipping will not be compromised. Later, the prime minister of Bulgaria spoke to his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and thanked him. Secretary of defence of the United States Lloyd Austin during his conversation with his counterpart Rajnath Singh praised the proactive operational measures taken by Indian Navy to maintain order in the Indian Ocean and ensure a safe and secure maritime environment for global commerce.

There is a need to reflect upon not only the MV Ruen episode but also the Indian Navys demonstration of grit and determination over the last 100-plus days when Operation Sankalp began to ensure maritime security and good order at sea and ensure safe passage to global trade through the Indian Ocean. This area of the Red Sea and sea lanes passing through the Gulf of Aden, Babel-e Mandab and into the Arabian Sea of the Indian Ocean and leading up to Malacca Straits in the east has been disturbed by indiscriminate missile and drone attacks.

The Houthis have attacked commercial ships passing through the Red Sea in support of Hamas who are fighting in Gaza against Israel. Simultaneously, the acts of piracy and attempts to hijack have spurred in and around Somalia. Quite possible that the funding for the weapons of Houthis is becoming critical and, therefore, the cartels that work in support of these outfits are seeking help from Somalian pirates and using the ransom money to sustain their disruptive armed activities.

It may be recalled that before the Houthi attacks, piracy had been largely under control. The Houthi attacks have triggered the piracy activities. The two activities are too close to be coincidental. The navy has succeeded in preventing hijacking/piracy attempts making the passage of global commons safe. It has given confidence to seafarers.

The effort and commitment have been phenomenal for the navy over 100-plus days, which includes 5,000 personnel, 21 ships and 900 hours of flying by maritime surveillance aircraft. The Indian Navy is the largest resident naval power in the Indian Ocean. This fact is etched in the naval leadership. It is their duty, therefore, to ensure the security of the entire global trade in this area irrespective of the flag of the ship or nationality of the crew. This gets further fillip by Prime Minister Modis often-spoken theme world is one family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam).

The technical life consumed by ships and aircraft leads to more frequent maintenance routines and checks. Replacement platforms for under maintenance is another important consideration for naval planners at Command Headquarters. And this is in addition to the navys traditional operational threats from two nuclear-armed neighbours.

Another important reflection of this episode has been Indias ability to jointly plan and execute operations 2,600 km away from the Indian coastline. The ability of the Indian Navy to follow international laws while executing a tricky operation in the face of armed adversary. Ability to hard negotiate to disarm pirates while ensuring the safety of crew and also the pirates. The ability of the navys marine commandos to undertake real-life operational tasks on the high seas is always hostile. Their professionalism and bravery have to be acknowledged.

This operation and many others undertaken by the navy have given confidence to the world that the Indian Ocean Region is safe, secure and stable. They have ensured that IOR is free, open, inclusive and has rule-based order. Of course, the insurance rates have gone up by almost 35-40 per cent since shipping companies have started rerouting their ships around the Cape of Good Hope. Indian Navy responded to 18 incidents and played a pivotal role as first responder and preferred security partner in the IOR.

In the end, MV Ruen could fly its Malta flag again and the crew took charge of the ship on the way to their intended destination.

There are challenges. Drone and missile attacks by Houthis raise some questions. Who supplied them with these assets? Also, a missile may cost Rs10-20 lakh, whereas to shoot it down the missile cost is Rs 5-10 crore. Similarly, a locally made drone flying out over 1,500 kilometres and delivering weapons is much cheaper, plywood and four-stroke engine and basic PCB having been used caused much destruction to the ship. So far, no Indian-flagged ship has been targeted nor any port, yet the naval ships are deployed in the area which has a risk of these attacks. Therefore, their security against these threats also needs to be ensured.

Now we are witnessing true grey zone warfare where there are vast asymmetry of power and cost. In the coming days our navy not only has to address traditional and non-traditional threats but also techniques to fight grey zone warfare. It must be a technology-driven approach and less expensive to fight.

It is a sound demonstration of Indias naval power as the key to a free Indo-Pacific and open sea. Her calibrated actions have benefitted the world at large. An effective partner in Quad and Malabar gives confidence to partner countries. Bharat is well on its way to seeking its rightful place in the comity of nations.

(The author is Chairman Trustee Board, India Foundation and former Commander-in-Chief, Western Naval Command. He is also on the Governing Council, ICWA. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views)
A Delhi BJP delegation met Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora on Wednesday to demand a probe into the letters being sent by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to his ministers from ED custody.

Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 and subsequently remanded to the custody of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) till March 28 by a court here in the Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case. He faces allegations of direct involvement in a conspiracy related to the formulation of the policy favouring specific individuals.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva told reporters that the partys delegation during its meeting with Arora at the Delhi Police Headquarters demanded a probe into whether the letters being written by Kejriwal were genuine and also into the role of his ministers Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj who have claimed to have received them.

There is a procedure by which such letters after proper attestation can come from a person who is in ED custody. As far as my information is concerned, these letters are fake, Sachdeva claimed.

Last week, Water Minister Atishi, showing a note from Kejriwal, claimed that the chief minister has directed her to address issues related to water supply and sewer in the city.

Health Minister Bharadwaj on Tuesday claimed that Kejriwal issued him directions from ED custody to ensure availability of free medicines and lab tests at government hospitals and Mohalla Clinics.
Arvind Kejriwal News: The Delhi High Court on Wednesday denied interim relief to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and issued notice on his plea challenging arrest and ED remand as well as on interim relief plea. The matter is listed to be heard on April 3.

Delhi HC has sought EDs response on the main petition as well as the application for interim release of the petitioner. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma gave the ED time till April 2 to file the reply and set the next hearing date on April 3.

Also Read: Arvind Kejriwal News LIVE: ED To Produce Delhi CM Before Rouse Avenue Court

The bench of Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma stated that the respondent/ED has to be granted an opportunity to file a reply, for effective representation.

Declining this opportunity would amount to the denial of fair hearing as well as violation of one of the principles of natural justice i.e., audi-alteram partem, which is applicable to both the parties and not one, the bench added.

Arvind Kejriwal Latest News Updates

AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal had urged the Delhi High Court to order his immediate release from ED custody in connection with a money-laundering case linked to the excise policy scam, contending his arrest ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwals wife, Sunita, on Wednesday addressed the media for the second time. She said that the CM has diabetes, and his sugar levels are not in range, but his determination for the national capital is strong.

Giving Kejriwals message to Delhi, Sunita said in Hindi, Unhone ne kaha hai mera shareer jail mein hai, lekin aatma aap sabke beech. Aankhein band karo aur mujhe apne aas paas mehsoos karo. The statement loosely translates to: Kejriwal has said that my body may be in jail but my soul is among the people. Close your eyes and feel my presence.

On Tuesday, two days days after his first order, Delhi chief minister Kejriwal issued a new order from ED custody to Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj to address shortage of medicines and diagnostic tests at mohalla clinics and hospitals in the city.

Irrespective of whether he is in or out, whenever an underprivileged person goes to a government hospital to get medicines, he/she should get it. A middle class person can buy medicines, but lakhs of underprivileged families in Delhi are completely dependent on government hospitals and Mohalla clinics for medicines. Some of these medicines need to be taken lifelong, Bharadwaj, in charge of health portfolio, said at a press meeting.

 At a summit organized by a news channel, Delhis Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said that CM Arvind Kejriwal will not be allowed run the national capital from jail.

 Acting Chief Justice of Delhi high court cautioned the legal cell of Aam Aadmi Party: If organised (protests) in court premises, they will do it at their own peril. There will be severe consequences for it. Right to approach the court is a fundamental right. No one can be stopped, if someone stops the common people, there will be very severe consequences, the court added, while post the matter for hearing on Thursday, March 28.

 The courts observations came after a letter against the protest by AAP legal cell in district courts was mentioned before Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora. Advocate Vaibhav Singh mentioned before the bench that a massive protest has been called for in court premises, and for political purpose one cannot go into court premises and protest.

 Arvind Kejriwals wife, Sunita Kejriwal, is set to hold a media address at 12pm after meeting the Delhi chief minister last evening. Sources in AAP said that shell make some big expose.

 The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday morning raided residence of AAP leader Deepak Singla. He had contested Delhi elections from Vishwas Nagar and is also Aam Aadmi Partys in-charge of Goa and co-in-charge of MCD. According to some report, it is believed that this raid could be in connection with the alleged liquor scam due to Singlas links to Goa.

 Meanwhile, ED also raided at least 20 locations in Chandigarh. Sources, however, said its not related to liquor policy case but a scam that allegedly took place in Punjab during Amarinder Singhs regime.

 Hours after Kejriwal issued directions to him to address the shortage of medicines, Bharadwaj said a session of the Delhi Assembly will be held on Wednesday.

 The AAP took to the streets on Tuesday over the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal with its leaders and workers trying to march towards the prime ministers residence before being stopped while the BJP held counter protests demanding the Delhi chief ministers resignation.

 Many prominent leaders of Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) combine will join the mega rally in which lakhs of people will be present, AAP leader Gopal Rai told a press conference on Tuesday.

 The United States has said that it is closely following reports of the recent arrest of Delhi CM, and added that it encourages a fair and transparent legal process. This comes just days after Germany had also urged for an impartial trial for Arvind Kejriwal, evoking a sharp response from India.
Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal, in his plea before the Delhi High Court on Wednesday, said that the foundation of the Enforcement Directorates (ED) action of arresting him was flawed as the agency failed to establish his guilt in the alleged excise policy scam. CNN-News18 has exclusively accessed a copy of the petition.

Senior advocate AM Singhvi, appearing for the AAP leader, submitted the petition, which states: My prayer is release me now because the foundation of my arrest is flawed, this is my interim prayer Although this is a matter in the realm of criminal law, it impinges on the basic structure.

ALSO READ | Arvind Kejriwal Tells HC Aim of Arrest is to Disable My Party; AAP MLAs Wear Mai Bhi Kejriwal Tees to Delhi Assembly | Updates

A sitting CM has been arrested after the Model Code of Conduct was implemented, without any material in a non-existent enquiryThe object of the arrest is to create a non-level playing fieldHere by creating a non level playing field, youre hitting the basic structure of the Constitution This threshold of arrest under Section 19 is kept high because under 45 the securing the bail is also as much difficult, said Singhvi.

Referring to the remand note, Singhvi, on behalf of Kejriwal, added: They say that they want me for unearthing the remaining proceeds of crimeSaying that youre not giving a confession and thats why I am putting you to arrest would turn the whole law upside downWhat is it that you could not have done without my arrest?You are at a non-trial preliminary intermediate stage. Even assuming all this material you have to show the necessity to arrest. You only have alleged materialStatement of approver cant be a basis to arrest me

Senior Advocate Amit Desai, appearing for Kejriwal, said, The preliminary issue is that Section 19 has not been properly followed.

The petition states: The DOE has at the time of arrest has failed to establish that Petitioner is guilty of committing activities stipulated under Section 3, i.e., be it one of concealment, possession, acquisition, use of proceeds of crime as much as projecting it as untainted property or claiming it to be so.

It further adds: The fact that the Petitioner was arrested without any interrogation or questioning clearly shows that the present proceedings of arrest are pre-meditated and nothing but an act of political vendetta to skew the balance and level-playing field in the General Election, 2024.

Kejriwal was arrested on March 21 and subsequently remanded in ED custody by a Delhi court till March 28. The case pertains to the alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi governments excise policy for 2021-22 that was later scrapped.

ED SEEKS TIME TO LOOK AT BULKY PETITION

As Singhvi submitted the petition in the morning, the ED urged the HC to grant time to file reply. Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing for the agency, said the bulky petition was served upon them only on Tuesday, and three weeks should be given to bring their stand on record. For interim relief as well, appropriate time should be given to respond, he said.

ALSO READ | CM Kejriwals Tall Order from ED Custody: Governing Delhi from Jail Amid AAP-Roar

Singhvi alleged that the request to file response was a delay tactic. Challenge is to the foundation of arrest and there are several glaring issues that need immediate decision by the high court either way. My friends request is extraordinary and unnecessary. His client is in a malafide, said Singhvi.

IF PROTESTS ARE ORGANISED IN COURT: HCs WARNING

Earlier in the day, Acting Chief Justice of the Delhi high court cautioned the legal cell of AAP over protests on the premises. If organised (protests) in court premises, they will do it at their own peril. There will be severe consequences for itRight to approach the court is a fundamental right. No one can be stopped, if someone stops the common people, there will be very severe consequences, the court said, while posting the matter for hearing on Thursday.

The courts observations came after a letter against the protest by AAP legal cell in district courts was mentioned before Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora. Advocate Vaibhav Singh mentioned before the bench that a massive protest has been called for in court premises, and for political purpose one cannot go into court premises and protest.

KEJRIWALs ORDERS FROM ED CUSTODY

Meanwhile, a public interest litigation has been filed in the Delhi HC seeking directions to prevent Kejriwal from issuing orders while in the EDs custody. Kejriwal issued a new order from ED custody on Tuesday to Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj to address shortage of medicines and diagnostic tests at mohalla clinics and hospitals in the city. Soon after, Bharadwaj said a session of the Delhi Assembly will be held on Wednesday.

ALSO READ | Will Arvind Kejriwals Wife be the Next Delhi CM?

This was the second direction issued by the chief minister from ED custody. The first was on Sunday to water department minister Atishi, to look into water shortage and sewerage issues. In the PIL, the petitioner, who claims to be a social worker, has asserted that Kejriwal has virtually forfeited his office and being in custody, he has disabled himself from performing the duties and responsibilities of a public servant.
It was a day of dramatic developments as protests and counter-protests rocked the Delhi assembly, as the House met for the first time after chief minister Arvind Kejriwals arrest on March 21. It was the first time, since the formation of the assembly in 1952, that the chief minister was lodged behind bars in the custody of the Enforcement Directorate.

The AAP ministers and MLAs, including Atishi, Saurabh Bhardwaj, Dilip Pandey, Durgesh Pathak and others, were clad in bright yellow T-shirts with the logo Modis biggest fear is Kejriwal and a message  Main bhi Kejriwal  in the back. In another statement-making move, AAP MLA Praveen Kumar walked into the assembly clad in chains. All marched to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and, from there, AAP leaders walked to the gate of the assembly and burned the effigy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding the release of their leader.

Pathak said the chief minister had given them directions after he got information that medicines were not available at a number of mohalla clinics and hospitals. He said people were facing sewerage and water issues and Kejriwal has given directions to reach out to officers and get the work done so that the people of Delhi do not suffer. This special session has been called so that these issues can be discussed and appropriate directions can be issued along with timelines, he added.

Asked how the CM was issuing directions while in ED custody, even as the BJP has filed a complaint before the lieutenant-governor, AAP MLA Dilip Pandey said: The BJP is really disturbed. Once they got him arrested through a political conspiracy, the BJP believed that the AAP and Arvind Kejriwal were finished. They made a big mistake here. Today, thousands of people in Delhi, particularly those who have benefited from Kejriwals policies, are pouring out onto the streets and opposing the tanashahi and goondagardi of the BJP. As far as the chief ministers directions are concerned, the BJP is making such a noise about nothing. Kejriwal has the mandate of the people. Whether he remains inside jail or outside, he has said his life is committed to the country. His convictions are unshakable.

When the House finally convened, AAP MLAs marched to the well of the House raising anti-Modi slogans forcing speaker Ram Niwas Goel to adjourn the House for 15 minutes. They used this break for sloganeering, putting on masks with Kejriwals face.

When the House met again, BJP MLAs were carrying placards demanding the resignation of the CM. They, too, rushed into the well of the House even as the sloganeering from both sides forced Goel to adjourn the House till 11 am on March 31.

In the meantime, Kejriwals wife gave her second televised press statement. Using the same backdrop that the CM would use to address the press, Sunita Kejriwal said despite multiple raids on the premises of AAP leaders Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh and Satyendar Jain over two years, the ED had failed to recover any money.

From our house, a meagre Rs 73,000 was recovered and in the so-called liqour scam, the ED has raided more than 250 locations during its investigation into the money trail. Until now, they have failed to recover even one rupee. They raided Manish ji, Sanjay Singh ji, Satyendar Jain ji but could not recover even one rupee. They raided us and found only Rs 73,000. So, where is the money in this so-called liquor scam? Arvind ji has said he will expose this on March 28 in front of the court. He will tell the country truthfully where the money of this so-called liqour scam is, she said.

Also a former IRS officer like her husband, Sunita said Kejriwal will expose the money trail in court on Thursday (March 28). His remand will end and it is widely believed that the ED will ask for more custody days.

Sunita further disclosed that a case has been registered against the CM for issuing orders to Atishi while in custody and asked if the central government wanted the people of Delhi to suffer. On Tuesday (March 26), BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa had officially complained to the lieutenant governor and ED director, alleging that this particular order was fraudulently written and the CM had no leave from the court to issue orders.

The government will not run from jail

While the AAP has stuck to its position of Kejriwal continuing in office even while in custody, the L-G made a big statement to a private news channel  The government will not run from jail. Breaking his silence over the turbulent political situation in the national capital, Vinai Saxena gave an indication of what may be in store for the AAP government, if indeed Kejriwal does not budge from his position.

Article 239AB Provision in case of failure of constitutional machinery states:

If the president, on receipt of a report by the lieutenant governor or otherwise is satisfied (a) that a situation has arisen in which the administration of the national capital territory of Delhi cannot be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Article 239AA or of any law made in pursuance of that Article or (b) that for a proper administration of the national capital territory it is necessary or expedient to do so, the president may by order, suspend the operation of any provision of Article 239AA or of all or any of the provisions of any law made in pursuance of that article for such period and subject to such conditions as may be specified in such law and make such incidental and consequential provisions as may appear to him to be necessary or expedient for administering the National Capital Territory in accordance to the provisions of Article 239 and 239AA.

In other words, the Presidents Rule hangs like a shadow over Delhi and the AAP.

Kejriwals health deteriorating in ED custody

Meanwhile, AAP sources said the health of the CM has deteriorated while in ED custody. A diabetic, he is dependent on insulin shots thrice a day to keep sugar levels stable.

Sources further said his sugar levels have plunged to 48, sparking concern among family members and supporters. Doctors are attending to the CM and he is under constant CCTV surveillance, they added.

The BJP, which also took to the streets, keeping up its pressure on the AAP, demanded Kejriwals resignation. We want that Kejriwal ji should understand morality and resign. However, he is stubborn about making his wife the chief minister. This fight is an internal fight of the AAP. However, the people of Delhi are astonished and depressed by the fact that even upon arrest, upon being awarded remand by the court, the CM is not resigning. There is a question mark over his morality. He has broken the record of Lalu Prasad Yadav and wants to make another Rabri Devi the chief minister.
The government will not be run from prison, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena said on Wednesday in the backdrop of statements by AAP leaders that Arvind Kejriwal will continue as chief minister even if he is behind bars.

Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21 in the Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case and remanded to the agencys custody till March 28. He faces allegations of direct involvement in a conspiracy related to the formulation of the policy favouring specific individuals.

Speaking at the summit by a media outlet, Saxena said: I can assure the people of Delhi that the government will not be run from jail.

The statement comes close on the heels of a Delhi BJP delegation meeting Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora on Wednesday to demand a probe into the letters being sent by Kejriwal to his ministers from ED custody.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva told reporters that the delegation demanded a probe into whether the letters being written by Kejriwal were genuine and also into the role of his ministers Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj who have claimed to have received them.

There is a procedure by which such letters after proper attestation can come from a person who is in ED custody. As far as my information is concerned, these letters are fake, Sachdeva claimed. Last week, Water Minister Atishi, showing a note from Kejriwal, claimed that the chief minister has directed her to address issues related to water supply and sewer in the city.

Health Minister Bharadwaj on Tuesday claimed that Kejriwal issued him directions from ED custody to ensure availability of free medicines and lab tests at government hospitals and Mohalla Clinics.

WIFE SUNITA SLAMS ARREST

Stressing that no money was found in multiple Enforcement Directorate raids, Kejriwals wife Sunita on Wednesday said her husband would do a big expose on the alleged excise policy scam in court on March 28.

Sunita Kejriwal, in a digital briefing, said her husband will reveal the truth on March 28 and also present evidence. Despite two years of probe, the ED has not been able to find even one paisa in evidence. They raided chief ministers residence but got just Rs 73,000, she said.

My husband issued directions to Water Minister Atishi while in custody. The Centre had issues with it. Do they want to ruin Delhi? Sunita Kejriwal asked, adding that her husband was very sad over the issue. She said Kejriwal was a brave and genuine person and his resolve was strong.

The AAP took to the streets on Tuesday over the arrest of Kejriwal with its leaders and workers trying to march towards the prime ministers residence before being stopped while the BJP held counter protests demanding the Delhi chief ministers resignation.

SARKAR FROM JAIL?

With Kejriwals arrest, the entire top brass of the AAP is now behind bars. Minister Atishi, however, reiterated that Kejriwal will remain the chief minister. We have always said that Arvind Kejriwal will run the government from jail. He will remain the chief minister of Delhi. As of now, according to AAPs top strategists, there is no move to find a replacement for Kejriwal, CNN-News18 had reported earlier.

As per law, Kejriwal can continue as chief minister as long as he is not convicted. According to the Representation of the People Act, 1951, until proven guilty, an elected representative does not have to quit. However, there is a moral question about continuing in office.
Samsungs much-awaited OS update with AI features could make its way to the previous generation flagship smartphones very soon. The South Korean tech giants announced the AI-packed software update last month and it looks like we are finally approaching the rollout.

As per 9To5Google, a tech enthusiast sent out a post on X claiming that the OS update for the S23 series is already rolling out in China on March 28. He even attached the screenshot that smartphone users will likely receive once the One UI 6.1 update is rolled out. Attention to all Galaxy S23 users! In China, One UI 6.1 officially rolls out starting March 28th as per the notification received today. Here's hoping it hits Asia and Europe too, his post read.

While One UI 6.1 is being rolled out in China, we still dont know much about its wider release, in markets like India. Having said that, the new update could happen several territories, given the notification received by owners using the quoted devices. Samsung usually provides update rollouts towards the middle of the week. Given that March 28 will be the last Thursday of this month, it is likely that the company will be fulfilling its previous late March commitment.

Samsung had already stated that the AI features launched with the Galaxy S24, S24+ and S24 Ultra will be introduced in the S23 line-up, the Z Flip 5 and the Z Fold 5. The company announced that the previous generation flagship users will likely get the update by the end of March. It was also announced that the Galaxy S23 Fan Edition model will also get the update on March 28. FE variants usually do not get the updates at the same time as their flagship counterparts; however, Samsung seems to be making an exception in this case.

Samsung claimed that the new One UI 6.1 update will bring more artificial intelligence natively and on cloud. The tech company plans to bring these AI-based features to over a 100 million Galaxy users by 2024. The newly announced OS update is packed with useful tools that include live translation in 13 languages, split-screen mode, circle to search, note assist, photo editing assistance, transcription and much more. Samsung recently partnered with software giant Google to bring AI features as Gemini was introduced in the Galaxy S24 series.
You must have heard cases of parents pressuring their children to study. As the board exams come closer, restrictions on playing outdoor games, watching TV and other things often occur, with the hope of having their kids invest more time in studies. However, a couple in China differs from the traditional way of education. Due to the delay in their sons admission to the public primary school, the couple took their six-year-old son for a nationwide study tour after selling their car and flat. The family travels in a camper van. Henan TV City Channel reported they have travelled to at least ten provinces and the tour is ongoing. The news story of this family has gone viral now. The couple hails from Henan province in Central China.

As per the report of South China Morning Post (SCMP), the minimum age of the child should be six years to get admitted to the government primary school in China. The child was just nine days short to get to the 2023 session. Instead of choosing a private school that would allow Mangguo to start, Yang Qiang (father) and his wife delayed his admission to public primary school for a year. In such a situation, they planned to take their child on a learning tour for a year. They are now using this time to travel, teach and spend quality time with the child. Sometimes being slow is going fast, Yang said. The father believes that if parents can be the best parents then their children will grow to be the best.

While listing the advantages of travel learning over bookish knowledge, the couple said that schooling is studying from books while travelling is absorbing knowledge from the world.

Travelling is reading books without words. When you see and know more, your vision will become bigger, said Yang as quoted by SCMP. They have sold their savings and money from selling a car and flat to support a one-year world tour. The positive attitude of these parents towards schooling and learning is now winning the hearts of the netizens. The family has also stated that they do not know when the family tour will come to an end as they are having fun and learning at the same time.
Researchers in Denmark are using artificial intelligence (AI) and a lot of data from many people to predict different stages of someones life, including the end. Their project, called life2vec, aims to show how powerful this technology can be but also to warn about its risks. The researchers want to use advanced computer programmes to find patterns that can forecast various health or social events in a persons life.

Sune Lehmann, a professor at the Technical University of Denmark and co-author of a study, explained to AFP that their framework is designed to make a wide range of predictions about peoples lives, as long as there is data to learn from. It can forecast health-related events like fertility, obesity, or cancer risk, as well as other aspects such as financial success. The system works similarly to ChatGPT but focuses on analysing life factors like birth, education, social benefits and work patterns.

The research team is applying the technology behind language-processing algorithms, like the ones used in ChatGPT, to study and predict human life events. They see a persons life as a series of events, such as birth, school, moving and marriage. However, the announcement of their program led to some people wrongly calling it a death calculator. This misunderstanding caused fake websites to trick individuals into sharing personal information in exchange for a life expectancy prediction. The researchers have stated that their software is currently kept private and not accessible to the public or other researchers.

The life2vec model uses anonymous data from about six million Danish people, provided by Statistics Denmark. This model can predict different life outcomes, including when someone might die, by looking at the sequence of events in their lives. It has a 78% accuracy rate for predicting death and a 73% accuracy rate for predicting if someone will move to a new city or country.

The researchers focus on predicting early mortality in people aged 35 to 65. They use data from eight years (2008 to 2016) to forecast whether someone will pass away in the following four years. According to Lehmann, this model predicts death more accurately than any other algorithm they have compared it with.
Some films are like old friends, always there to lift our spirits and offer timeless wisdom. Take, for instance, the Bollywood gem Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. Its a movie that speaks to the soul, reminding us of lifes true essence and teaching us to conquer our fears, urging us to live each moment to the fullest, unburdened by the chaos of the world. Among its fans, many find solace in the character of Arjun (played by Hrithik Roshan), who found redemption through deep-sea diving, a symbolic plunge into the depths of his fears, guided by the instructor Laila (played by Katrina Kaif), who pulled him from the murky waters of materialism.

Arjuns transformation from a man shackled by worldly desires to someone embracing the simplicity of life is profoundly moving. His decision to prioritise the people and passions he loves, particularly his affection for Laila, culminates in a promise to journey together to Morocco after their friends trip concludes, marking a poignant transformation for the once-materialistic man. However, what many may not know is that the idea of Morocco was initially planted by Laila herself, not Arjun. Surprised? Youre not alone.

Also Read: Did You Know Hrithik Roshan Was the Only Real Scuba Diver in ZNMD?

Recently, a deleted scene from the movie surfaced on social media, shared by user X, sparking renewed interest. In this scene, Arjun and Laila share a poignant moment by the seaside, after Lailas surprise visit during the final leg of their journey in Pamplona.

Their conversation, filled with unspoken emotions, takes a turn when Laila playfully teases Arjun about the men shes followed, prompting her to ask the pivotal question, Will you come with me to Morocco? Its a moment where their eyes speak volumes, revealing the depth of their connection.

Watch the video to see what happened next:

Who has seen this deleted scene from #ZindagiNaMilegiDobara?Towards the end, Laila and Arjun have a romantic chat remembering how she confessed to him with a kiss. She asks him to come with her to Morocco. Arjun, in his typical manner, reminds her about his workaholic life pic.twitter.com/JFdNRZLsdN  Mimansa Shekhar (@mimansashekhar) March 25, 2024

This newfound glimpse into their connection has left viewers spellbound, offering a fresh perspective on their evolving relationship.

Also Read: Did You Know Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na Had an Easter Egg Tribute to Samuel Becketts Waiting for Godot?

So, whats your take on this? Should this scene have found its home within the movies narrative, or does its absence enhance the films allure?
Google India has recently embarked on an unexpected venture, sharing some captivating animal facts on Instagram. This peculiar initiative has sparked the interest of the online community. The posts, featuring Googles search engine interface, showcase intriguing queries about various animals. Sharing these otterly adorable facts with you, read the caption accompanied with the pictures.

The first slide in this series of snapshots delves into the romantic lives of penguins with the query: Do penguins fall in love? The provided answer reveals a fascinating aspect of penguin courtship: Once they have decided on a partner, male penguins search long and hard for the perfect gift to present their new love, it comes in the form of a beautiful, smooth pebble. It is common for male penguins to even fight other penguins for the pebble theyve set their hearts on.

Continuing its series of fascinating animal facts, Googles attention turns to our beloved canine companions and their remarkable ability to sense our emotions. Sharing on Instagram, Google highlights, Many dogs can tell this and get a sense of how we are feeling and if we need a little extra attention. This is released in changes with emotions: sad, depressed, or happy as well as with stress and nervousness. So, your dog can often truly tell if we are upset or sick.

Similarly, the post included intriguing queries about three other animals: quokkas, bees and otters. The final slide focused on otters with the question, How do otters not drift apart? The provided answer was, Sea otters hold hands when they sleep, so they dont drift apart, a behavior known as rafting, posted an individual.

Take a look at the post here:

The series of images garnered significant attention from online users, amassing over 5,800 likes after it was shared by the search engine on March 26. The post also prompted a flood of comments from users with one user remarking, Google is shining day by day, while another simply stated, Thats why everyone uses Google!

Wholesome pro max, a third user commented. A fourth user added a touch of sarcasm, commenting, And humans settle for the bare minimum (tch tch tch). Meanwhile, a fifth user humourously noted, The goal is to be a Quokka in life. Quokkas, as shared by Google, are known as the happiest animal in the world.
Train thefts are on the rise in India, where thieves employ a variety of cunning tactics to deceive and assault passengers, aiming to steal their valuables. This trend is a constant reminder of the risks travellers face, especially when videos capturing such incidents circulate online. Recently, this cautionary tale unfolded dramatically in shocking CCTV footage capturing a mans attempt to snatch a womans necklace on a moving train, only to meet a swift dose of karma.

How did it happen? The video, shared on X with the caption: While travelling on a train, be careful, shows the man strategically positioning himself near the door, scouting for potential targets. In a bold move, he sets his sights on two elderly women navigating through the train compartments. With lightning speed, he lunges for the chain, sending one of the women into a moment of sheer panic.

Yet, the situation takes a dramatic turn as the mans audacious move backfires catastrophically. His attempt to seize the chain leads to a dangerous loss of balance, and he falls from the moving train. While the CCTV footage captured his fall, it appeared as though he intended to jump off to escape but misjudged the trains speed, leading to an unexpected fall.

Also Read: Video Shows Man Snatching Womans Chain Outside Fruit Shop, Internet Is Shocked

The clip soon went viral, garnering a staggering 2 million views on the platform.

Take a Look:

*While traveling in a train be careful* pic.twitter.com/6EDtRiEhXS Narayanan R (@rnsaai) March 26, 2024

Unexpected. Have to be extra careful now. Didnt know these things happen in moving train as well, commented one user. For few sovereign he broke his legs or what? He behaved like a loose not thief, remarked another. The third added, Arent all trains supposed to have a cop who keeps doing the rounds? This is scary. Indias train stations need to have access only to travellers and not open for all riff raffs.

Also Read: Delhi Men Try to Rob Couple on Street, End Up Giving Rs 100 Instead: Watch Viral Video

Meanwhile, the incident reportedly took place on Wednesday (March 13) around 7 p.m. in South India, although it remains unclear whether the man was injured or came into contact with the trains wheels.
Most of you may have heard of the renowned French seer Nostradamus. He started publishing almanacks after becoming deeply interested in astrology. He subsequently published the first edition of Les Propheties, or The Prophecies, which would make him famous throughout history and all over the world. Herein he almost predicted every significant global event that occurred. Fast forward to the present, and we have a living Nostradamus, with one of his prophecies recently coming true.

Brazilian parapsychologist Athos Salome accurately prophesied that there would be a total solar eclipse, resulting in three days of darkness. He stated that this would occur next month as a result of a solar coronal mass ejection (CME), according to the Daily Star. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) defines CMEs as massive plasma and magnetic field expulsions from the Suns corona. The repercussions of this occurred on March 22 and reached us a few days later. It is believed to have been the biggest solar storm in recent years.

With some of the other things Salome has said would occur in 2024, wed best cross our fingers and hope hes just correct about the coronal mass ejection.

Salome declared that the countdown begins upon King Charles coronation in 2023. He did, however, assert that he foresaw the Kings cancer diagnosis after learning of his condition in February. He stated, We will find out if he remains in power between 2024 and 2025.

This one may appear the most ridiculous, but Salome is adamant that something that was previously considered otherworldly is about to become normal, despite the fact that it may have sounded like science fiction.

He predicted that we would finally establish contact with extraterrestrial life this year. Salome said we would communicate by encrypted signals intercepted by a network of telescopes. He claimed that the worlds superpowers will clash over an asteroid that is rich in minerals and would crash onto Earth.

Furthermore, he thinks 2024 will be the year of AI awakening, when technology will become self-aware, cease requiring human input to function and create a language that is incomprehensible to humans.
Would you prefer to leave your daily lifestyle and live on a ship? Sounds strange right. While living on a ship sounds good for a vacation, a couple in the USA has decided to make it their residence. As per the latest reports, Monica Brzoska and her husband, Jorell Conley, have adopted this new lifestyle. The couple, who originally lived in Memphis, Tennessee, switched to full-time cruising after selling their belongings and quitting the usual 9-to-5 job.

washing machine

According to the New York Post, the couple spends their days deciding whether to sunbathe by the pool or indulge in spa treatments on the ship. Monica, who was a teacher, is happy that she hasnt used a kitchen or ain over a year because cruise personnel take care of everything. She told The Sun All my meals are cooked by chefs and staff change my bedding.

A thought that might prop up in the minds of many is that it is expensive to spend days on a cruise. Reportedly, the pair methodically evaluated their expenses and managed to maintain their lifestyle for less than $10,000 (Over Rs 8 lakh) per year, mostly by taking advantage of reduced cruise deals and renting out their Memphis house.

Monica recognises the difficulties while they live on a cruise away from the people they know. They occasionally feel the need for family connections. However, a family crisis fueled their resolve to set sail permanently and encouraged them to pursue their aspirations without delay.

Monica stated. If we chose the cheapest cabins, our savings from the pandemic would allow us to book eight months of cruising for $9,989.19-some trips paid for in full, others with deposits.

Since they decided to set sail, the couple has visited dozens of countries, including Fiji, Japan, and Greece. Theyve taken 36 consecutive cruises in the last year, frequently disembarking from one ship to board another in the same port.

This is not the first time a couple decided to abandon their daily life on land for a life filled with adventure on the sea. Some time back, another couple in the United States sold all they possessed to pursue their ambition of sailing across the world claiming it is cheaper than living on land. John and Melody Hennessee, a couple from Florida, sold their home, business, and the majority of their things to begin on global travel in 2020.
Have you ever experienced heartbreak? Well, consider the unfortunate ordeal of travel writer Julia DOrazio, who found herself dumped near Hawaiis volcanoes. Julia recalled how her great date with a local unexpectedly turned sour. Julia met her date Jerry via Tinder when she was in Hawaii. The duo met in downtown Kailua-Kona and instantly formed a bond. They shared similar tastes in music and were fitness enthusiasts. Julia told Jerry that she had rented a red Mustang convertible for her trip and shared a list of things she wanted to do in Hawaii.

As per a report in the New York Post, Jerry suggested that they should start with the easiest and closest activity on the list. They then went on a hike, tried great food at local food joints, and spent the evening at LaAloa Bay Beach. At the end of the day, both agreed that they had a great time and promised to see each other again. Two days later they met again, but this time Julia noted that Jerry was behaving differently. She described his behaviour as, standoffish and short, not present. Julia asked Jerry if he was up for the day and he insisted that he would be fine and said, Yeah, Ill be fine. Ill snap out of it.

The duo had planned to go on a three-hour road trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which has two of the worlds most active volcanoes. Julia tried to cheer up Jerry, but he stayed sullen. When they reached their destination, Jerry abruptly told Julia that he was leaving and would hitchhike back to the city. He did not offer any explanation for his erratic behaviour and left.

This is when Julia realised that her date had dumped her at Hawaiis active volcanoes. Recalling this moment, Julia wrote in the New York Post, He grabbed his rucksack, and off he went, walking out of the car park, walking out of my life. My mouth became as big as a volcanic crater watching him go off into the distance. I was stunned.

However, she soon regained her composure and went ahead with her day. She concluded, It took a few moments to gather my thoughts. Talk about brutal dumping. Sure, I felt bad for a bit, but I soon realised it was for the best. It wasnt about me; it was on him. I was glad that he discharged himself. Good riddance.
40-year-old Amit Soussana, a lawyer by profession, who was taken hostage by Hamas became the first Israeli hostage to publicly speak about the sexual abuse she suffered at the hands of her captor, The New York Times said in a report.

Amit said her abuse began shortly after she was taken captive. She was also beaten up by her captors during her captivity. She was released after 55 days along with 105 other hostages but she told the newspaper that she remains traumatised following her ordeal.

The lawyer said she was assaulted by a man named Muhammad while she was being held at a home in Gaza. She said Muhammad used to lift her shirt, grope her and had begun harassing her from the moment she was brought to his home which acted as a makeshift jail.

It should be noted that Amits abduction had gone viral because of the manner in which she was abducted. Videos in social media show Hamas gunmen beating her to subdue her as she attempted to escape from her captors during the October 7 attacks after being kidnapped from Kibbutz Kfar Azza, a kibbutz stones throw away from the Gaza border.

She said Muhammad assaulted him after unchaining her to allow her to take a bath.

He sat me on the edge of the bath. And I closed my legs. And I resisted. And he kept punching me and put his gun in my face. Then he dragged me to the bedroom, Amit Soussana was quoted as saying by The New York Times.

He came towards me and shoved the gun at my forehead. Then he, with the gun pointed at me, forced me to commit a sexual act on him, Amit Soussana said, adding he took her to a childrens bedroom adorned with Spongebob Squarepants decorations to sexually assault her.

She further added that Muhammad was always interested in her sex life and frequently walked into her room wearing just underwear, asking if he could give her a massage. The captor also was interested in when she would get her period.

Every day, he would ask: Did you get your period? Did you get your period? When you get your period, when it will be over, you will wash, you will take a shower and you will wash your clothes, she said.

Once the abuse ceased, Muhammad expressed remorse, pleading with her, Please, dont inform Israel.

Shortly after, Soussana was relocated to a different hideout, away from Muhammad, but the violence didnt stop. She alleges she was assaulted by multiple guards over the following weeks at around six locations, including Hamas tunnels. Once, she was bound and suspended between two couches like a chicken before being beaten. She suffered various injuries, including fractures in her right eye socket, cheek, knee, and nose, along with severe bruising on her knee and back.

Hamas attempted to cast doubt on her story and has challenged the United Nations report from earlier this month as well which indicated that there is clear and convincing information that some of the hostages had suffered sexual violence.

(It is) difficult to believe the story, unless it was designed by some security officers. For us, the human body, and especially that of the woman, is sacred. (Our religious beliefs) forbid any mistreatment of any human being, regardless of his sex, religion or ethnicity, spokesman Basem Naim told The New York Times in a statement.

About 130 hostages are still in Hamas custody and negotiations for a ceasefire as well as their release have failed. Hamas killed over 1,200 civilians during the October 7 terror attacks, 32,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israels retaliation since.
WikiLeaks Julian Assange was on Tuesday given a chance to continue his fight against extradition to the United States after the High Court in London said the US needed to provide more assurances.

U.S. prosecutors are seeking to put Assange, 52, on trial on 18 counts, all bar one under the Espionage Act, over WikiLeaks high-profile release of confidential US military records and diplomatic cables.

Assanges lawyers in February sought permission to challenge Britains approval of his extradition to the US, arguing his prosecution was politically motivated.

In their ruling, two senior judges said he had a real prospect of successfully appealing against extradition on a number of grounds.

The court has given the US authorities an opportunity to provide satisfactory assurances on the questions of whether he was able to rely on the First Amendment of the US Constitution and whether he could be subject to the death penalty.

If those assurances are not forthcoming, then Assange will be granted permission to appeal. A further hearing has been scheduled for May 20.

The US argues the WikiLeaks revelations imperilled the lives of their agents and there was no excuse for his criminality.

Assanges many supporters hail him as an anti-establishment hero who is being persecuted, despite being a journalist, for exposing US wrongdoing and alleged war crimes.

The US meanwhile said Assange had been charged for indiscriminately and knowingly publishing sources names and not his political opinions.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore praised the Indian crew for their prompt warning before the collision of a cargo ship with the Baltimore bridge on Tuesday morning, which resulted in saving many lives.

The owners of Singapore-flagged container ship Dali, which was involved in the incident, said the vessel collided with a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore while under pilotage with two pilots on board. All crew members, including the two pilots, were located, and there were no reports of injuries.

One of the pilots did everything that he could have done to slow the ship and prevent it from drifting toward the bridge, the New York Post reported. This was revealed by Clay Diamond, executive director and general counsel of the American Pilots Association, who has been in close communication with the Association of Maryland Pilots since the catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge.

Mayday

On Tuesday, the Dali cargo, heading out of Baltimore Harbor bound for Sri Lanka, plowed into a support pylon of the Francis Scott Key Bridge over the mouth of the Patapsco River at about 1:30 am (local time). A trestled section of the 2.57 km span almost immediately crumpled into the icy water, sending vehicles and people into the river. The ship issued a mayday loss of power, alerting Maryland officials to stop cars from crossing the bridge moments before the ship collided. The ship issued a mayday loss of power. The workers on the bridge halted traffic right before impact. They saved lots of lives, Baltimore Brandon Scott was quoted as saying by the NYP, during a press conference.

Despite their prompt SOS call, six workers were missing and presumed dead from a bridge that collapsed in Baltimore Harbor, forcing the closure of one of the busiest ports on the US Eastern Seaboard. Active search-and-rescue operations were suspended about 18 hours after the accident. US Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said there was no hope of finding the missing workers alive due to the frigid water and the length of time elapsed since the accident.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland which crosses the Patapsco River has reportedly Collapsed within the last few minutes after being Struck by a Large Container Ship; a Mass Casualty Incident has been Declared with over a Dozen Cars and many Individuals said to pic.twitter.com/SsPMU8Mjph OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) March 26, 2024

State Police Colonel Roland Butler said authorities hoped to return divers to the water after sunrise on Wednesday to recover the workers remains. Rescuers pulled two survivors to safety, one of whom was hospitalised. US media report earlier said the ship reported a power failure before impact, which enabled officials to stop traffic on the bridge before the collapse. By being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, these people are heroes. They saved lives last night, Maryland Governor Wes Moore said at a midday news briefing.

Baltimore Mayor described a scene of twisted metal shooting into the sky. It was something out of an action movie. It was something you never thought youd see, he said. Video footage on social media showed the vessel slamming into the bridge in darkness, the headlights of vehicles visible on the span as it crashed into the water and the ship caught fire. US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said the closure of one of the countrys busiest shipping lanes until further notice would have a major and protracted impact to supply chains. The Port of Baltimore handles more automobile cargo than any other US port  more than 750,000 vehicles in 2022, according to port data.

(With agency inputs)
US President Joe Biden faced criticism from netizens after claiming he had crossed Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge, which was destroyed during Tuesdays collision, many, many times by train and car.

He made these remarks while addressing the collapse of the US bridge after a container ship, with an all-Indian crew, struck it at about 1:30 am on March 26. Bidens claims of frequent travel over the bridge, coupled with his mention of commuting from Delaware, triggered rebuke among the right-wing handles.

The people of Baltimore can count on us to stick with them every step of the way, until the port is reopened and Francis Scott Key bridge is rebuilt.Were not leaving until its done. pic.twitter.com/Hsm4kpNRtP  President Biden (@POTUS) March 26, 2024

On March 26, owners of the Singapore-flagged container ship Dali said that the vessel collided with one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, with two pilots onboard. All crew members were accounted for and there are no reports of any injuries.

Critics pointed out the absence of train tracks on the Francis Scott Key Bridge, questioning the accuracy of Bidens statement, the New York Post reported. Radio host Alan Sanders joined the chorus of skepticism, highlighting the discrepancy between Bidens claims and the bridges infrastructure.

White House Clarifies

White House spokesperson Robyn Patterson later clarified that Biden was referring to driving over the bridge during his 36-year Senate career, rather than traveling by train. Pattersons statement aimed to address the confusion surrounding Bidens comments.

This incident is not the first time Biden has faced scrutiny for inaccuracies in his statements. Earlier, he claimed to have been present at Ground Zero following the September 11 attacks and witnessed a bridge collapse in Pittsburgh, both of which were later corrected.

Bidens tendency to make inaccurate statements has drawn attention, with critics raising concerns about his credibility and attention to detail. As the controversy over Bidens remarks unfolds, it adds to the ongoing scrutiny of his public statements and their accuracy.
Saudi model Rumy Al-Qahtani participated in the second edition of the Miss & Mrs Global Asian beauty pageant in Malaysia earlier this year. Though Singapores Jessica Long was crowned Miss Global Asian 2024 and Philippines Dyan Shane Mag Abo claimed the Mrs Global Asian 2024, the Saudi model caught the eye of social media.

Al-Qahtani, with 870,000 Instagram followers, shared updates on her pageant journey, showcasing various looks from elegant gowns to traditional Saudi attire. The competition, which concluded on January 27, featured 25 contestants from 12 countries, led to a surge in popularity for the Saudi model following the event.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by rumy alqahtani |   (@rumy_alqahtani)

Miss Universe

Saudi Arabia is now set to debut in the Miss Universe pageant with Rumy Alqahtani, 27, announced as the representative. Her participation marks a milestone for Saudi Arabia in the Miss Universe pageant, following the footsteps of Lujane Yacoub from Hamala, who represented the GCC region last year.

After the Saudi announcement, Alqahtani expressed her excitement to represent the Kingdom on the global stage. Born in Riyadh, she is a model and content creator. Alqahtanis pageant journey includes titles such as Miss Saudi Arabia, Miss Middle East (Saudi Arabia), Miss Arab World Peace 2021, and Miss Woman (Saudi Arabia).

She has participated in various categories, showcasing elegance and poise consistently, according to Harpers Bazaar Arabia. With a significant presence on Instagram, Alqahtani has amassed a million followers, along with activity on other platforms like X and Snapchat. Her posts reflect her travels worldwide, from the UAE to Egypt and Italy.

Beyond her pageant pursuits, Alqahtani shares glimpses of her affinity for luxury jewelry and designer fashion on her Instagram. From Cartiers Love bracelet to Bulgaris Diva Dreams collection, she incorporates the finer things into her lifestyle. Family plays a significant role in Alqahtanis life, as seen through her social media posts featuring her sisters, Razan and Gedai.
As many as eight suspects have now been remanded by Russia in pre-trial detention since gunmen sprayed concertgoers in Moscow with bullets, what was believed to be the deadliest attack in the country in two decades.

A Kyrgyzstan-born man, who was suspected of involvement in Fridays mass shooting at a Moscow concert hall, was remanded in custody on Tuesday. Russian authorities sent investigators to Tajikistan to question the families of four men charged with carrying out the attack.

Islamic State has claimed responsibility and released footage from the attack, which was confirmed by Western intelligence, who suggest the group was indeed behind the attack, in which 139 people were killed and 182 wounded. Russia has said the four suspected gunmen have confessed, but some showed signs of injuries when they appeared in court, raising concern they had been tortured.

Russias commissioner for human rights said that the detention of suspects should be carried out as per the law, TASS news agency reported. This came after videos of bruised suspects were published after the interrogation. It is absolutely unacceptable to use torture on detainees and defendants, the commissioner, Tatyana Moskalkova, was quoted as saying by TASS. Russian authorities have said they are investigating.

On Monday, President Vladimir Putin said the attack had been carried out by Islamic militants, but added that Ukraine, which is at war with Russia, may have played a role. Ukraine has denied any role. A day later, the director of Russias most powerful security agency reiterated the claims, saying he believes Ukraine, along with the United States and Britain, were involved in the attack on a concert hall just outside Moscow.

We believe that the action was prepared by both the Islamist radicals themselves and was facilitated by Western special services, Alexander Bortnikov, director of the Federal Security Service (FSB), was quoted as saying by Reuters, on Russian television. The special services of Ukraine are directly related to this, Bortnikov, 72, said, adding Kyiv had helped prepare Islamist radicals at an unidentified location in the Middle East.

When asked by reporters if Ukraine and its allies, the United States and Britain, were involved in the attack on the concert hall, Bortnikov said: We think thats the case. In any case, we are now talking about the texture that we have. This is general information. Bortnikov, who has served as head of the FSB since 2008, said Russia had yet to identify those who specifically ordered the deadliest attack inside Russia for two decades.

(With agency inputs)
The Russian foreign ministry Wednesday said it is hard to believe Islamic State could launch the kind of attack Moscow witnessed last week when terrorists stormed the Crocus City Hall and killed at least 140 people who were there to attend a concert by Soviet-era rock group, Piknik.

Islamic States Khorasan wing (ISIS-K) has claimed responsibility for the attack. The group, an offshoot of the original Islamic State which once ruled parts of Syria and Iraq, is one of the most active regional affiliates of the Islamic State militant group.

However, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in her weekly press briefing that its extremely hard to believe that Islamic State could be able to conduct such an attack, according to a report by the Guardian.

She also accused Ukraine of remaining silent and not condemning the attack. President of Ukraine Zelensky was the only one to accuse Russia of the terrorist attack at the Crocus City Hall. Almost all countries have condemned the attack at the Crocus City Hall. Only Kiev remained silent, she said.

The Ukrainian social media are posting cynical and inhuman comments. Some in Ukraine probably derive cannibalistic pleasure from human deaths, pain and suffering, she further added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged that the Islamic State could be behind the attack. We know that the crime was carried out by the hand of radical Islamists with an ideology that the Muslim world has fought for centuries, Putin said in remarks posted on the Telegram messaging app but he did not directly mention Islamic State in the aftermath of the attack.

He then went on to say that there are links to Ukraine by highlighting that the attackers were headed toward the neighbouring country with whom Russia is fighting a war for the last two years.

This atrocity may be just a link in a whole series of attempts by those who have been at war with our country since 2014 by the hands of the neo-Nazi Kyiv regime. We know by whose hand the crime against Russia and its people was committed. But what is of interest to us is who ordered it, he further added.

Not just the Russian authorities, several other pro-Kremlin commentators have blamed Ukraine for the attack.

We are not talking about ISIS here. It was the khokhly, said the editor-in-chief of the RT channel Margarita Simonyan, using a term used pejoratively in Russia to denote Ukrainians, following the attack.

The US and France said that it has credible evidence that the IS was behind the attack but Russian officials have repeatedly cast doubt on Western intelligence and Ukraine has denied Russian accusations of being involved in the attack.

ISIS-K has been plotting attacks within Russia for some time, said Aaron Zelin, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute For Near East Policy, a US think tank, while speaking to Reuters. He noted that recent attempts by the group to strike within Russia had been unsuccessful.

A separate report by Reuters cited General Michael Kurilla, the commander of US Central Command, who told Congress last March that ISIS-K was quickly developing the ability to conduct external operations in Europe and Asia. He predicted it would be able to attack US and Western interests outside Afghanistan in as little as six months and with little to no warning.

ISIS-Khorasan retains the capability and will to attack US and Western interests abroad in as little as six months and with little to no warning, Kurilla told a Senate committee hearing this month.
French politicians from right, left and centre-leaning camps stood in solidarity with a Paris school principal who had received death threats after asking a student to remove her Muslim veil on the premises. They expressed dismay as the person had to resign due to threats of violence.

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, a former education minister, will also receive the school principal later Wednesday in a show of support.

The headmaster at the Maurice-Ravel lycee in eastern Paris quit after receiving death threats online after an altercation with a student in February. He had asked three students to remove their Islamic headscarves on school premises, but one of them refused and an altercation ensued, according to prosecutors. He later received death threats online.

According to a school letter sent to teachers, pupils and parents on Tuesday, the principal stood down for security reasons, while education officials said he had taken early retirement.

In a message addressed to the schools staff, quoted by French communist daily LHumanite, the principal said that he had taken the decision to leave for his own safety and that of the school.

The student lodged a complaint against the principal, accusing him of mistreating her during the incident. She told French daily Le Parisien that she had been hit hard on the arm by the principal.

The student is an adult who was at the school for vocational training.

The Paris public prosecutors office told AFP on Wednesday that her complaint had been dismissed.

A probe has also been launched into cyber-harassment following the death threats against the headmaster. A 26-year-old man has been arrested for making death threats against the principal on the internet. He is due to stand trial in April.

In a further show of support, the education ministry said in a statement that it would never abandon teachers in the face of threats. The ministry said that all teams remained mobilised, adding that the principals decision to leave his post was understandable given the seriousness of the attacks against him.

Education Minister Nicole Belloubet had visited the school in early March and deplored the unacceptable attacks.

Secularism and religion are hot-button issues in France, which is home to Europes largest Muslim community.

France in 2004 banned school children from wearing signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation such as headscarves, turbans or kippah on the basis of the countrys secular laws which are meant to guarantee neutrality in state institutions.

The resignation from the headmaster comes as the country goes through deep tensions, following a series of incidents including the killing of a teacher by an Islamist former pupil last year.

A collective failure

Its a disgrace, Bruno Retailleau, the head of the right-wing Republicans faction in the Senate upper house, said on X (former Twitter) on Wednesday.

We cant accept it, Boris Vallaud, the head of the Socialist deputies in the National Assembly lower house, told television broadcaster France 2, calling the incident a collective failure.

Marion Marechal, the granddaughter of far-right patriarch Jean-Marie Le Pen and a far-right politician herself, spoke on Sud Radio of a defeat of the state in the face of the Islamist gangrene.

Maud Bregeon, a lawmaker with President Emmanuel Macrons Renaissance party, also took aim at an Islamist movement.

Authority lies with school heads and teachers, and we have a duty to support this educational community, Bregeon said.

Socialist Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo called the principal to assure him of her total support and solidarity, said her office, adding she was appalled and dismayed.
An Indian studying in the United Kingdom found himself ensnared in a web of slander during the student union elections at the London School of Economics (LSE) for supporting the development of Bharat under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Pune-born Satyam Surana last year came into the spotlight when he defiantly picked up the tricolour from the road during an attack at the Indian High Commission by extremist elements. In a series of social media posts on March 26, Satyam said he was targeted for taking a pro-India position on issues like terrorism and Ram mandir, during the LSE student polls.

#WATCH | An Indian Student at the London School of Economics, Satyam Surana who came to the limelight when he picked up the tricolour from the road, defying the attack at the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom by extremist elements last year, now alleges hate campaigns pic.twitter.com/aXsVC2PIWD ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

Called fascist and worse

Satyams ordeal began when his campaign posters for the position of General Secretary were defaced and torn. Recalling the series of events, he revealed, There were crosses on my face, it was written anyone but Satyam. I was cancelled out. As the election fervour heightened, Satyam said the smear campaign against him also increased. Messages flooded LSE groups, branding him as a BJP supporter, fascist, and worse, he told news agency ANI, adding, that the messages were seditious and contentious of the Indian government.

Satyam said that his social media presence became a battleground, with innocuous posts twisted to fit a nefarious agenda. Satyam, disheartened by the vicious attacks, remarked, My posts were used with a malicious agenda to call me a fascist.' Despite his manifesto focusing solely on campus improvements, Satyam found himself unfairly targeted.

When these messages started coming, my entire team was shocked, we were in a dilemma, he confessed, revealing the toll the hate campaign took on his morale. Satyams past activism, including his brave act of picking up the national flag amidst Khalistani protestors, became ammunition for his detractors. I was targeted for calling Khalistanis as terrorists in one of my posts, he stated, highlighting how his patriotism was twisted into an indictment.

People are now Anti-India because they are Anti-ModiThey attempted to harass me. I was cancelled, I was slurred. Why? Because I supported PM Modi. Because I supported BJP. Because I spoke up for the truth when the Ram Mandir was built. Because I supported the pic.twitter.com/OArzoof3aN  Satyam Surana (@SatyamSurana) March 25, 2024

Left-wing campaign

Even his association with dignitaries like Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis became fodder for malicious propaganda. Satyam decried, My photograph with Mr. Fadnavis was used to claim that I am linked to the BJP. Throughout the ordeal, Satyam remained resolute, attributing the smear campaign to political motives. The campaign was dictated and planned by the left wing, he asserted, pointing fingers at those threatened by his nationalist stance.

Ideological Hijacking of Educational Institutions by the LEFT is something Ive always spoken against! The youth is the easiest target to brainwash & deviate from the path of Truth! Rashmi Samant & Karan Kataria (other Indian students) have fought battles against it! I am one more person in this long battle, Satyam said in one of his posts on X.

Reflecting on the broader implications of the incident, Satyam said, Every international person is looking up to India and looking up to the current Prime Minister as a stalwart legendary politician. He condemned the dissemination of misinformation aimed at undermining Indias progress under PM Modi. Despite the setbacks, Satyams spirit remains unbroken. He draws strength from the support he received, acknowledging, I did get support from many people who stood by me in this hour.
The US said it does not support the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project. The US state department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that Washington does not approve of the project on Wednesday.

We do not support this pipeline going forward. We always advise everyone that doing business with Iran runs the risk of touching upon and coming in contact with our sanctions, and would advise everyone to consider that very carefully, Miller said, warning the Pakistani government of potential sanctions for doing business with Tehran.

Pakistan petroleum minister Musadik Malik said Pakistan will approach the US to seek a waiver on the gas pipeline project earlier. Pakistan will vigorously present its case and will try to seek exemption from US sanctions by presenting technical and political arguments, Musadik Malik was quoted as saying by news agency The News.

He also said construction on the gas pipeline project will begin soon.

Pakistan is caught in a tough spot after Iran issued a third notice to Pakistan in January where it said it intends to go to arbitration court for not laying the pipeline as part of the Iran-Pakistan gas line project.

Iran has threatened Pakistan with a fine of $18 billion for breach of contract in the international arbitration court.

The project has been facing delays since 2014 after being announced in 2009. The target deadline was 2015.

Pakistan says that it could not complete the project in its territory because of the US sanctions imposed on Iran but Tehran has not subscribed to the view.

Iran has also completed the laying of a 900-kilometre pipeline.

The Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline, known as the Peace Pipeline, is a long-term project between Tehran and Islamabad. The pipeline would transport natural gas from Iran to neighbouring Pakistan, Reuters said in a report.

Iran and Pakistan had signed a five-year trade plan in August 2023 and set a bilateral trade target at $5 billion.

Pakistan is also suffering from an economic crisis and is on its way to seeking a 24th bailout from the International Monetary Fund.
A Japanese diaper manufacturer announced it will end production of baby diapers in the country to focus on the adult market, reflecting the countrys aging population and declining birth rates. Oji Holdings is the latest company to make this shift, citing the trend of adult diaper sales surpassing those of infants.

Last year, Japan saw a record low of 758,631 births, a 5.1 percent decrease from the previous year and the lowest figure since the 19th century. Oji Holdings subsidiary, Oji Nepia, currently produces 400 million infant diapers annually, down from a peak of 700 million in 2001, according to the BBC.

READ MORE: One in 10 Japanese Are Aged 80 or Older For The First Time

Japans largest diaper maker, Unicharm, noted in 2011 that adult diaper sales had exceeded those for babies. The adult diaper market is estimated to be worth over $2 billion, reflecting Japans status as one of the worlds oldest populations, with nearly 30 percent aged 65 or older.

While Oji Holdings will continue baby diaper production in Malaysia and Indonesia, Japan grapples with the consequences of an aging society and dwindling birth rates. Despite government efforts to boost birth rates through child-related programs and subsidies for young couples, there has been little success.

Factors contributing to Asian countrys demographic challenges include declining marriage rates, more women joining the workforce, and the rising costs of child-rearing. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida warned of the societal implications, stating Japan stands on the verge of whether it can continue to function as a society.

Japans fertility issues are mirrored in other East Asian countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea, which also face declining birth rates. More than 10 percent of Japanese people have crossed 80 years or older for the first time, official data showed in September last year.

Government data released also showed that the share of Japans population at 65 or older expanded to a record 29.1 percent from 29.0 percent a year ago. According to Japans internal affairs ministry, the level compared with second-ranked Italys 24.5 percent and third-ranked Finlands 23.6 percent.

Japan has the highest percentage of elderly population in the world, the ministry had said. For decades, Japan has seen its population shrink and grow older as young people delay marriage and children largely due to unstable jobs and economic difficulties.

Japan has been facing ballooning costs for elderly care with not enough young people to fill jobs and pay for social and welfare programmes. The Japanese government is concerned about the baby boomer population turning 75 or older. Japans 124.4 million people are continuing to grow older, with around 12.59 million aged 80 or older, while 20 million are 75 or older.
Pakistans foreign ministry has denied any proposal to restore trade ties with India. The statement contradicts recent remarks by the countrys foreign minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar.

Trade ties between India and Pakistan have remained suspended since August 2019. Indicating a potential shift in diplomatic stance, Dar said at a press conference in London following his participation in the Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels that Pakistan will seriously" consider restoring these relations.

However, foreign ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said Dar was speaking informally.

In an interview with local media, Baloch denied there was any diplomatic proposal for the restoration of ties.

Such proposals are normal in any country," she said. There is no formal proposal as we are not dealing with India because of its stand on Kashmir."

On asking about sending diplomats to India, Baloch said there was no such plan.

Pakistan had downgraded its diplomatic ties with India after the Narendra Modi government abrogated Article 370 sections, revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, and then bifurcated the state into two union territories.

Union home minister Amit Shah on Tuesday emphasised during an interview tthat both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the entire Parliament firmly believe that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) is an integral part of India, asserting that both Muslims and Hindus living there are Indians.

Reacting to Balochs remarks, top Indian government sources said that this was not the stand of Islamabad but of the Pakistani army.

The army doesnt want Islamabad to run the government and maintain good relations with India," said an official.

The interview by the foreign office spokesperson two days after Dars statement clearly indicates who arranged it and for what purpose, said the sources.
Pakistan ramped up security guarding Chinese engineers building Beijing-linked projects in the nations northwest, an official said Wednesday, a day after five workers were killed in a suicide bombing.

Beijing is Islamabads closest regional ally and Pakistan has benefitted from billions of dollars of investment in recent years, but has struggled to guarantee the safety of Chinese migrant workers.

The five Chinese engineers  plus their Pakistani driver  were killed while travelling between Islamabad and a hydroelectric dam construction site in Dasu, in northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

A high-ranking official from the provincial interior ministry told AFP on Wednesday that at the more than two-dozen sites hosting Chinese engineers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa security was stepped up.

Directives have been issued to all law enforcement agencies to enhance security for Chinese nationals and all other foreigners, he said on condition of anonymity.

Instructions have also been given to foreign nationals to restrict their movements.

Information minister Attaullah Tarar told a press conference in Islamabad that security procedures would be reviewed with a focus on identifying and addressing any gaps.

Meanwhile, further details emerged about the attack, which has yet to be claimed by any militant group.

Local police officer Bakht Zahir said the five engineers killed near the city of Besham included four men and a woman, and that the bomber targeted the middle vehicle in a convoy of 12.

The suicide bomber rammed his vehicle into the convoy in the middle, detonating himself, causing the Chinese engineers vehicle to fall into a 180-foot-deep (55-metre) ravine and catch fire, he said.

Pakistans domestic chapter of the Taliban is the most active militant threat in the region, but the groups spokesman denied involvement in a statement late Tuesday.

China has inked more than two trillion dollars in contracts around the world under its Belt and Road investment scheme, with billions pouring into neighbouring Pakistan and aiding its crumbling economy.

Since 2015, power plants, ports and transport projects have been under construction by joint Pakistani-Chinese teams in remote parts of the South Asian nation.

But Chinese workers have frequently been targeted by militants hostile to outside influence, with some complaining Pakistanis are not getting a fair share of wealth from the huge projects.

Tuesdays attack came just days after militants attempted to storm offices of the Gwadar deepwater port in the southwest, considered a cornerstone of Chinese investment in Pakistan.

It sparked a flurry of diplomatic activity at the Chinese embassy in Islamabad, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the foreign and interior ministers offering condolences in quick succession.

Chinas foreign ministry declared the countries iron-clad friends but asked Pakistan to take effective measures to ensure the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions.
As many as six judges of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) sought intervention by the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) against the alleged interference in the working of the judiciary by Pakistans top intelligence agencies.

The letter demanded the SJC initiate a judicial convention against such interference in judicial affairs. The letter signed dated March 25 also advocated adopting a stance to ensure the judiciarys independence through the convention. The SJC is the highest body authorised to take action against judges of high and supreme courts.

Pakistans military, which runs the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) spy agency, has long been accused of wading into civilian affairs. However, the letter is a rare rebuke to their mostly unquestioned power. In the lead-up to the February 8 elections, analysts said the military was leaning on the courts to sideline opposition leader Imran Khan, who was eventually jailed and stopped from running for office.

#BREAKING: #Sindh high court bar association demands that a Judicial Commission consisting three Honble Judges of the #SupremeCourt to investigate and probe the allegations and take firm steps to stop such interference. pic.twitter.com/9WzQPCrVMQ Asad Ali Toor (@AsadAToor) March 27, 2024

We are writing to seek guidance from the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) with regard to the duty of a judge to report and respond to actions on part of members of the executive, including operatives of intelligence agencies, that seek to interfere with discharge of his/ her official functions and qualify as intimidation, as well as the duty to report any such actions that come to his/her attention in relation to colleagues and/or members of the courts that the High Court supervises, the letter stated.

It goes on to highlight the interference of the executive and agencies in judicial matters, including the kidnapping and torture of the brother-in-law of a high court judge to put pressure on the judge regarding a case. We will also note that the code of conduct for judges prescribed by SJC provides no guidance on how judges must react to and or report incidents that are tantamount to intimidation and interfere with judicial independence, it said.

The judges further said they believe it is imperative to inquire into and determine whether there exists a continuing policy on the part of the executive branch of the state, implemented by intelligence operatives who report to the executive branch, to intimidate judges, under threat of coercion or blackmail, to engineer judicial outcomes in politically consequential matters. The development came days after the top court declared the removal of former IHC Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui illegal, directing that he may now be considered a retired judge.

The verdict noted that the SJC proceeded against Justice Siddiqui on the assumption that the truth or falseness of the allegations levelled by the former judge was irrelevant. Siddiqui was sacked on October 11, 2018, by the SJC based on a speech he had delivered weeks ago at the Rawalpindi Bar Association in which he accused the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)  the powerful intelligence agency of the country of influencing the court proceedings and forming benches of choice.

In their letter, the IHC judges supported Justice Siddiquis request to investigate the allegations made by him. The letter is believed to be unprecedented as it officially highlights the alleged involvement of executive and intelligence agencies in the matters of the judiciary and seeks the support of the SJC, the highest body, to take action against judges and provide guidance on such matters.

(With agency inputs)
The Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday expressed his profound gratitude to India for its swift and decisive action in rescuing Filipino crew members of a merchant ship attacked by Houthi rebels in the Gulf of Aden this month.

The Indian Navys medical team rescued all the crew members of MV Confidence and provided them critical care after the merchant ship sustained an attack by a Houthi missile strike while sailing the Gulf of Aden on March 6. Three crew members, including two Filipinos, were killed. All the Filipino crew members who survived the attack have been repatriated, the Philippine News Agency reported.

Honoured to call-on President @bongbongmarcos of the Philippines. Conveyed the personal greetings of President @rashtrapatibhvn and PM @narendramodi.Valued his warm sentiments towards the partnership. His guidance for taking it to new areas will strengthen collaboration pic.twitter.com/DbpwcktMeG  Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) March 26, 2024

Marcos, extending his gratitude to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is visiting the Philippines, said: I express my profound gratitude to the Indian government for their swift and decisive action in rescuing Filipino seafarers involved in the MV True Confidence incident. I look forward to further strengthening our bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of our nations, Marcos said in a Facebook Post.

Jaishankar is visiting Manila for the second time. He first visited the Philippines in February 2022. During his current visit, he called on President Marcos Jr. at Malacanan Palace here. In a firm public assertion of Indias position on the South China Sea issue, Jaishankar on Tuesday said India firmly supported the Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty as Manila and Beijing were currently involved in a raging maritime territorial dispute over the resource-rich region.

Jaishankars remarks came at a joint press conference with his counterpart Enrique Manalo in Manila after their bilateral meeting. I take this opportunity to firmly reiterate Indias support to the Philippines for upholding its national sovereignty, Jaishankar said, indicating perhaps for the first time New Delhis stand on the South China Sea issue.

(With agency inputs)
The US government has said it will seize two luxury apartments in New York owned by former Mongolian prime minister Sukhbaatar Batbold that it said were bought as a cover for his illicit corruption scheme.

The US Justice Department on Tuesday unsealed a complaint claiming that Batbold used his position to award Mongolian mining contracts in return for the equivalent of millions of dollars in kickbacks. Batbold allegedly splashed $14 million of that income on a pair of properties in Manhattans ritzy Midtown and Upper East Side neighbourhoods, the department said.

Todays forfeiture action sends a message that corrupt officials will not use our real estate market to conceal proceeds of crimes, said Breon Peace, US Attorney for New Yorks Eastern District, in a press release. According to the complaint, Batbold and his family used state-owned mining contracts to move money through shell companies to fund lavish lifestyles.

One of the companies owned by Batbolds trusted intermediaries was handed a $68 million contract despite having no operational history, no mining expertise, and no financial or logistical infrastructure to execute commodity sales. Millions of dollars from those contracts were then allegedly funnelled into foreign bank accounts, filtered through a succession of shadowy shell firms and finally spent on the apartments and other items.

The 60-year-old former head of state served as Mongolias PM from 2009 to 2012 and continues to represent the ruling party in the countrys parliament. He was later named in the Panama and Pandora papers, two major leaks detailing the overseas financial affairs of wealthy individuals and politicians.

Mongolia will hold legislative elections in June, in which incumbent Prime Minister Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene will seek to maintain the ruling partys majority in parliament. Mongolia, a landlocked democracy between China and Russia, is rich in deposits of coal, metals and other minerals. A years-long mining boom has helped ease historically high poverty rates but also fuelled corruption.

(With agency inputs)
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has cracked the whip on errant Zanu PF top officials whom he either suspended or expelled from the party accusing them of backing former political commissar Saviour Kasukuweres presidential bid ahead of the August 23, 2023, harmonised elections.

Kasukuwere was, however, barred from contesting in the elections by the courts on the grounds that he had resided outside of Zimbabwe for more than 18 months hence was no longer a registered voter.

Former Zanu PF Mutare North legislator Batsirai Pemhenayi who lost in Zanu PF primary elections last year has been shown the exit door.

Pemhenayi lost in the internal polls to Admire Mahachi.

Godfrey Tsenengamu, a former Zanu PF youth boss, told journalists a few months before the elections that they had mobilised disgruntled Zanu PF members to rally behind Kasukuweres candidature.

He cited Pemhenayi whom he said was recruited to mobilise support in Manicaland province.

In a letter dated March 7, in the possession of NewsDay, Zanu PF secretary-general Obert Mpofu confirmed the expulsion of Pemhenayi.

The letter serves to advise you that the politburo sitting at the 372nd ordinary session on February 29, 2024 endorsed the national disciplinary committee decision to expel you from the party with immediate effect, the letter read.

The decision was arrived at after the national disciplinary committee had found you guilty of disciplinary offences prescribed in the Zanu PF party constitution article 37, section 549 subsection 9,12 and 16.

Pemhenayi is not new to controversy he was once convicted and sentenced for assaulting former Zanu PF Manicaland provincial chairperson Mike Madiros personal assistant, Wilson Nyamande.

The politburo also recommended the suspension of Manicaland Provincial Women League chairperson Happiness Nyakuedzwa.

You have been suspended from holding any leadership position in the party for a period of two years with immediate effect. Suspension is in accordance with the amended Zanu PF constitution article 36 section 531, subsection 4, read the letter signed by Mpofu.

Nyakuedzwa is accused of insulting Zanu PF Womens League secretary for external affairs Betty Kaseke.

She is also accused of misusing party resources in Manicalands timber project, among other allegations.

Meanwhile, the politburo has endorsed the re-admission of former youth league leader Kudzai Chipanga.

Chipanga was fired from Zanu PF in 2017 together with several other members aligned to the G40 cabal following the ouster of then President Robert Mugabe in a military coup.

According to the letter, Chipanga is now free to contest for any party position.

This letter serves to advise you that the politburo sitting at 372 ordinary session on 29 February 2024, agreed to re-admit you to the party with immediate effect, the letter read.

You are now free to participate in all party programmes and activities without prejudice with immediate effect. You can now enjoy the full rights and duties of being a member of Zanu PF as provided under article 3 of the Zanu PF constitution.

Zanu PF Manicaland chairperson Tawanda Mukodza confirmed receiving the correspondence although he could not be drawn into revealing more details.

We have correspondence from our party leadership and this is what I can only tell you, Mukodza said. Newsday
GOVERNMENT will monitor and supervise all public gatherings during the Easter holiday as part of a raft of measures to curb the spread of cholera in the country.

Zimbabwes cumulative suspected cholera cases are at 29 144.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care continues to conduct integrated training in case management, surveillance, infection prevention and control, and social mobilisation for the Midlands, Masvingo, Mashonaland Central, and Mashonaland West provinces to augment staff that is already trained.

The Easter Holidays, which begin on Friday until Monday, are synonymous with huge church gatherings and religious pilgrimages.

In his post-Cabinet briefing yesterday, Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said all gatherings must obtain prior clearance and should be supervised by health authorities.

In light of the impending Easter Holidays, Cabinet has directed the Ministry of Health and Child Care to intensify monitoring and supervision of all gatherings to minimise the spread of cholera. Cabinet further directed that going forward, no church gatherings must take place until church leaders install solar-powered boreholes or bush pump boreholes, he said.

Known hotspots are being targeted with community awareness and the deployment of oral rehydration points and establishment of cholera treatment camps.

Dr Muswere said the Ministry of Health and Child Care is working with Apostolic Women Empowerment Trust in training Interfaith Leaders in Manicaland and Masvingo provinces, to strengthen actions to address collaborative and collective initiatives in the response to the cholera and polio outbreaks.

He said the Cabinet was concerned about the rate at which some churches continue to gather in places where there are no safe water or sanitation facilities.

His Excellency the President, Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has since directed that solarised water facilities and boreholes should be installed to ensure the provision of safe water and sanitation at Karuyana Shrine among other sites, said Dr Muswere.

The outbreak has now spread to more than the 17 traditional cholera hotspot districts of Buhera, Chegutu, Chikomba, Chimanimani, Chipinge, Chitungwiza, Chiredzi, Harare, Gokwe North, Marondera, Mazowe, Shamva, Mutare, Murehwa, Mwenezi, Seke and Wedza. Herald
Canada's federal government and the provincial Manitoba government have agreed to spend tens of millions to help search a landfill for the remains of two slain Indigenous women. A sum of $20 million CanadianUS $14.7 millionfrom each government is to go toward a search of the privately owned Prairie Green landfill north of Winnipeg, where the remains of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran are believed to be, the AP reports. Cambria Harris, daughter of Harris, said Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew told her they are going to search every part of the area where her mother is believed to be. She confirmed the amounts. "I am very grateful," she said.

Alleged serial killer Jeremy Skibicki is charged with first-degree murder in the deaths of Harris, Myran, and two other women. The other two are Rebecca Contois, whose partial remains were found in a different landfill, and an unidentified woman Indigenous leaders have named Buffalo Woman. The remains of Buffalo Woman have not been found. Police in 2022 rejected the idea of a search, in part because of the potential danger from toxic materials and the sheer volume of material at the landfill. "We're glad to be able to move forward with the funds necessary to search every cubic meter of the relevant space," Kinew said in a statement. "While we don't know if the search will be successful, we have to try."

An Indigenous-led committee commissioned two reports on the feasibility of a search, which has been estimated to cost $90 million CanadianUS $66 millionif completed within a year. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has previously said the disappearances and deaths of Indigenous women in Canada have too often been treated as a low priority or ignored. The leader of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs said she hopes the governments will fund whatever search efforts may be needed. "We don't want to go back and back again to ask that this work be complete," Grand Chief Cathy Merrick said.

(More Canada stories.)
A Wisconsin museum is partnering with a historical preservation group in a search for the wreckage of World War II ace Richard Bong's plane in the South Pacific. The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior and the nonprofit World War II historical preservation group Pacific Wrecks announced the search on Friday, Minnesota Public Radio reported. Bong is credited with shooting down 40 Japanese aircraft during the war, per the AP . He flew a Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter plane nicknamed "Marge" in honor of his girlfriend, Marjorie Vattendahl. He plastered a blowup of Vattendahl's portrait on the nose of the plane.

Bong, who grew up in Poplar, said at the time that Vattendahl "looks swell, and a hell of a lot better than these naked women painted on most of the airplanes," the Los Angeles Times reported in Vattendahl's 2003 obituary. Another pilot, Thomas Malone, was flying the plane in March 1944 over what's now known as Papua New Guinea when engine failure sent it into a spin. Malone bailed out before the plane crashed in the jungle. Pacific Wrecks founder Justin Taylan will lead the search and plans to leave for Papua New Guinea in May. He expects the hunt could take almost a month and cost about $63,000 generated through donations.

Taylan said he's confident he'll find the wreckage, as historical records provide an approximate location of the crash site. But there might not be enough left to identify it. "Hopefully we'll be able to find the ultimate proof, which will be a serial number from the airplane that says this airplane is Marge," Taylan said. Bong shot down more planes than any other American pilot, earning celebrity status and the Medal of Honor. He and Vattendahl married in 1945. After three tours in the South Pacific, Bong was assigned as a test pilot in Burbank, California. He was killed on Aug. 6, 1945, when a P-80 jet fighter he was testing crashed. Vattendahl was 21. She went on to become a model and a magazine publisher in Los Angeles. The Bong Center's site is here.

(More World War II stories.)
Convicted killer Alex Murdaugh didn't tell the truth when FBI agents repeatedly asked him where more than $6 million he stole ended up and whether another attorney not yet identified helped him steal from clients and his law firm, federal prosecutors said in court documents Tuesday. The prosecutors want a judge to revoke their end of a plea deal with Murdaugh on theft and other charges and order him to serve the maximum of well over 100 years in prison when he is sentenced in Charleston, South Carolina, on Monday, reports the AP .

Murdaugh, 55, is already serving life without parole in state prison after a jury found him guilty of murdering his wife and younger son. He pleaded guilty to stealing money from clients and his law firm in state court and was sentenced to 27 years, which South Carolina prosecutors said is an insurance policy to keep him behind bars in case his murder conviction is ever overturned (he is appealing). The federal case was supposed to be even more insurance, with whatever sentence Murdaugh received running at the same time as his state sentences. But that deal is in doubt after the FBI said the disbarred attorney failed a polygraph.

The test came in October, after three previous FBI interviews of Murdaugh led investigators to think he wasn't telling the full truth about where at least $6 million he stole ended up and the role of an attorney who has not been publicly identified in his crimes, federal prosecutors said. Per the polygraph, "all of Murdaugh's responses ... indicated deception," prosecutors said, reports the Post and Courier.

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State prosecutors estimated Murdaugh stole more than $12 million from clients by diverting settlement money into his own accounts or stealing from his family law firm. Federal investigators estimate at least half of that has not been accounted for, although Murdaugh has said he spent extravagantly on illegal drugs after becoming hooked on opioids. Prosecutors said they will ask for the stiffest sentence possible since the plea agreement was breached and require Murdaugh serve his federal sentence at the end of any state sentences.

(More Alex Murdaugh stories.)
Famed American artist and sculptor Richard Serra, known for turning curving walls of rusting steel and other malleable materials into large-scale pieces of outdoor artwork that are now dotted across the world, died Tuesday at his home in Long Island. He was 85. Considered one of his generation's most preeminent sculptors, the San Francisco native originally studied painting at Yale University but turned to sculpting in the 1960s, inspired by trips to Europe, the AP reports. His death was confirmed Tuesday night by his lawyer, John Silberman. He said the cause of death was pneumonia.

Serra became world-renowned for his large-scale steel structures, such as monumental arcs, spirals, and ellipses. He was closely identified with the minimalist movement of the 1970s. Serra's work started to gain attention in 1981, when he installed a 120-foot-long and 12-foot-high curving wall of raw steel that split the Federal Plaza in New York City. The sculpture, called "Tilted Arc," generated swift backlash and a fierce demand that it should be removed. The sculpture was later dismantled, but Serra's popularity in the New York art scene had been cemented.

In 2005, eight major works by Serra were installed at the Guggenheim Museum in Spain. Carmen Jimenez, the exhibition organizer, said Serra was "beyond doubt the most important living sculptor." Before his turn to sculpting, Serra worked in steel foundries to help finance his education at the Berkeley and Santa Barbara campuses of the University of California. He then went on to Yale, where he graduated in 1964.

(More obituary stories.)
A GOP lawmaker running for governor of Utah blamed the deadly collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge on efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. In an apparent effort "to boost his gubernatorial campaign," Utah Rep. Phil Lyman took to X on Tuesday to attack Port of Baltimore Commissioner Karenthia Barber, a Black woman who owns a consulting firm offering "diversity, equity and inclusion audits," per the Salt Lake Tribune . The Young Conservative Federation had called attention to this, claiming Barber, a Baltimore native, "knows nothing about ports." "This is what happens when you have Governors who prioritize diversity over the wellbeing and security of citizens," added Lyman. The state lawmaker later claimed his team posted the comment without his authority.

His account had also reposted a user who backed Lyman, saying Barber had "no experience in marine law, ports or the industry." Barber's professional biography describes her as "a highly regarded consultant, strategist and speaker with experience in education, human resources and business" who's taught at the university level. She also founded "a consulting practice that provides leadership and workforce training, coaching, and diversity, equity and inclusion audits and consulting." The DEI debate was just one part of a misinformation mess on social media in the wake of the bridge collapse. Conspiracy theories suggesting Israel attacked the bridge or that the cargo ship that struck it acted intentionally spread from "verified" accounts on X, Axios reports. (The ship lost power, issued a mayday, and tried unsuccessfully to avoid the bridge.)
Donald Trump took shots at former Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna McDaniel on Tuesday, hours after she was canned from NBC News after only four days. "Wow! Ronna McDaniel got fired by Fake News NBC. She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear," Trump wrote on Truth Social, shortly after NBC News backtracked on its move to appoint McDaniel as a paid contributor. The company's biggest names had spoken out about the move on air Monday, citing McDaniel's support for Trump's election fraud claims and attacks on the media. "She literally backed an illegal scheme to steal an election in the state of Michigan," said MSNBC host Joy Reid, per the Washington Post .

"It leaves her in a very strange place, it's called NEVER NEVERLAND, and it's not a place you want to be," Trump said, suggesting McDaniel is now "in some sort of political purgatory," per the New York Post. McDaniel and NBC have been frequent targets of the former president and presumptive Republican nominee. On Tuesday, Trump also slammed NBC executives as "weak" and the company's talent as "highly overpaid." McDaniel, meanwhile, is said to be exploring legal options as NBC abandoned a contract that was "to pay her more than six figures annually," the Hill reports. She plans to hire a lawyer, according to the Post, which reports NBC informed employees that it was backtracking on McDaniel before McDaniel herself. (More Ronna McDaniel stories.)
The search continues Wednesday for six presumed victims in the Baltimore bridge collapse, with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore describing the "treacherous situation" faced by divers on the scene. "We're talking about frigid temperatures, we're talking about a moving tide, we're talking about darkness and mangled metal, that's still very much in the middle of this water," Moore told CBS News. The water temperature in the Patapsco River is about 48 degrees. More:

Underwater drones: Maryland Rep. David Trone told CBS News that underwater drones will assist in the search below what remains of the Francis Scott Key Bridge; they have the ability to zero in on submerged vehicles, one of which authorities believe may contain victims.
The first big step to giving the legal green light to same-sex marriage in Thailand is complete. The New York Times reports that the nation's House of Representatives "overwhelmingly" passed a bill Wednesday that would legalize LGBTQ unions, with a vote of 400-10. Two members of the 415-member bloc abstained, while three didn't vote, per the AP.

Details: The bill amends wording in the nation's Civil and Commercial Code from "men and women" and "husband and wife" to "individuals" and "marriage partners." The AP notes that the law "would open up access to full legal, financial, and medical rights for LGBTQ+ couples," including adoption. Currently, only single women who adopt children with special needs and heterosexual couples are allowed to adopt.
Netflix has failed to deflect a defamation lawsuit alleging it falsely portrayed one of the subjects of the Inventing Anna miniseries as a heartless, greedy mooch. Rachel DeLoache Williams, a former Vanity Fair staffer who penned a book about her friendship with con artist Anna Sorokin , filed the lawsuit in federal court in Delaware in 2022, claiming Netflix and creator Shonda Rhimes defamed her while blurring the line between fact and fiction. She cited 16 examples of allegedly defamatory statements portraying her "as a greedy, snobbish, disloyal, dishonest, cowardly, manipulative and opportunistic person," per Vulture . Netflix argued it had "literally license" to put its spin on things.

"To allow constitutionally-protected artistic expression to flourish, content creators like Netflix must be allowed some breathing space to interpret the actions and decisions of those involved in a public controversy like the Sorokin trial," said the company's legal team, per Variety. They argued that the characterization of Williams was an opinion and therefore couldn't be defamatory. But Chief Judge Colm F. Connolly sided with Williams on Tuesday, allowing the suit to proceed.

In referencing one alleged example of defamation, he said the series' portrayal of Williams leaving Sorokin behind in Morocco as Sorokin begged her not to leave is not an opinion but "can be proven true or false." Williams claims Sorokin always knew she planned to leave the trip early and there was no ill will. The depiction of Williams abandoning Sorokin is just one issue.

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Williams alleges the series falsely portrays her as a freeloader who betrayed Sorokin to the authorities and hid her role in Sorokin's arrest. "The devastating damage to her reputation could have been avoided if only Netflix had used a fictitious name" as with other characters, Williams' lawyer Alexander Rufus-Isaacs tells Vulture, suggesting Netflix was out to get Williams because she'd sold her story to rival HBO. The lawsuit cites media coverage of the series, including one columnist's perception that it "goes out of its way to make us hate Rachel." The series, meanwhile, "presents Sorokin's brazen willingness to lie, cheat and steal her way past supposedly unjust obstacles rooted in bureaucracy, ageism and sexism as admirable," per the suit. (More Netflix stories.)
Disruptive and even violent behaviour in New Zealand classrooms is at critical levels, according to new research from the Education Review Office (ERO).

A report released on Thursday revealed the "rapidly growing problem" that's not only getting in the way of learning, but teachers are also being put off the profession.

Ruth Shinoda, head of ERO's Education Evaluation Centre, said classroom behaviour is a significant and persistent issue in New Zealand.

"Over the last 20 years our classroom behaviour has been amongst the worst in the OECD," she said.

"But we also know it is getting worse, with over half of teachers saying all types of disruptive behaviour has become worse in the last two years.

"ERO is extremely concerned that a quarter of principals told us they are seeing students physically harm others, and damage or take property at least every day."

The ERO found 74 percent of teachers say they've seen behaviour get worse in the past two years, less than half of new teachers say they're well prepared to manage disruption, and 25 percent of principals say they see physical harm, property damage or theft every day.

The report found disruptive classroom behaviour was badly impacting students' achievement and enjoyment of school.

Three-quarters of teachers said bad behaviour was impacting on students' progress and two-thirds said it was having a large impact on students' enjoyment of school, which is key to attendance.

But it's not just impacting students.

About half of teachers said classroom behaviour had a large impact on their intention to stay in the profession.
The government has been told to "step up" and show support for the LGBTQI+ community after Destiny Church members painted over a rainbow pedestrian crossing and protested against an inclusive event in Gisborne.

More than 100 people were outside the town's library on Tuesday, where drag queen performers Erika and CoCo Flash hosted an R16 event which includes storytelling, lip synching, singing and an interactive performance.

Rainbow community supporters stood face-to-face with protesters as police de-escalated tensions between the crowd before any fights arose.

On Monday night, Destiny Church members painted over a rainbow crossing, a move Gisborne mayor Rehette Stoltz said the council condemned.

"We accept that people hold different views however there is no place for hate or bigotry in Tai Rawhiti," she said.
The US Coast Guard says it is suspending its search and rescue efforts for the six individuals still missing after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

"I'd like to announce tonight that based on the length of time that we've gone in this search, the extensive search efforts we've put into it, the water temperature, that at this point we do not believe that we're going to find any of these individuals still alive," Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath told reporters at a Tuesday evening (local time) news conference.

The collapse occurred after a massive container ship lost power early Tuesday and crashed into the bridge.

A massive container ship lost power early Tuesday before crashing into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, causing it to collapse into the frigid Patapsco River along with people and vehicles, officials said.

At least six people believed to be part of a construction crew repairing potholes on the bridge remain unaccounted for, Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld said at a news conference Tuesday.
Fairbanks, AK (99701)

Today

Snow showers. Temps nearly steady in the mid to upper 30s. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 50%..

Tonight

Mainly cloudy with snow showers around this evening. Low 22F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 50%.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The Council of Representatives unanimously approved an edict to provide partial funding for The Train and Place Programme by a sum of BD200 million after exhaustive deliberations yesterday.

This initiative, operated by The Labour Fund (Tamkeen), aims to facilitate the integration of Bahraini nationals into the labour market. In an effort to elevate the minimum wage across various sectors of society, the scheme was designated urgent, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the living standards of Bahrainis.

This endeavour is expected to expedite crucial programmes aimed at improving the skills of Bahraini jobseekers, aligning them with the requirements of the labour market and subsequently increasing their productivity, creating in turn more job opportunities for Bahraini jobseekers.

The scheme has been nodded by both the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) and the Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation, signalling their approval and support. A sum of BD129 million is expected to allocated for 13,000 Bahraini employees.

As for private institutions set to promote its employees, the scheme will fully cover the intended increment for employees earning below BD1,500 per month over a period of 24 months.

Collaborative effort

The edict before us is a result of collaborative effort between the legislative and executive branches, arising from their discussions on the state budget.

The focus of these deliberations was to prioritise the private sector, particularly in light of the recent salary raise granted to the public sector, MP Ahmed Salloom said. It is crucial to bear in mind the significance of judiciously utilising the allocated funds for the Unemployment Insurance System.

However, it is equally important to recognise that this initiative aligns with the core objectives for which the Unemployment Insurance System was originally established, MP Salloom added. We strive as legislators to enhance the appeal of the private sector to Bahraini youth and foster a smooth integration of their work with the public sector.

This objective becomes even more pertinent in light of the increasing delegation of tasks to technology, MP Jalal Kadhem stressed. According to official statistics provided by the Ministry of Labour, the number of jobseekers in Bahrain stands at 16,856 with a minimum wage for private sector employees at BD500 for college graduates, BD430 for Diploma holders, and BD350 for Secondary School graduates and below averaging at BD826.

The recent package of subsidies handles the issue from the top, as demonstrated by the remarkable success of the On-The-Job Training Service (Furas), which has achieved a record high employment rate of 65%, said the Minister of Labour, His Excellency Jameel Humaidan.

As we celebrated Bahraini Youth Day yesterday, it is essential to cement this celebration by providing our youngsters with genuine employment opportunities. By doing so, we enable them to discover their true potential, lead dignified lives, and ensure their valuable contributions to the development of our nation, said MP Eman Showaiter.
AFP | Geneva

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The situation in war-ravaged Gaza is so desperate that teenagers are now saying they hope to be swiftly killed to escape the nightmare, a spokesman for the UN childrens agency said yesterday.

The unspeakable is regularly said in Gaza, said James Elder, spokesman for the United Nations childrens agency UNICEF. Speaking to journalists in Geneva via video message from Rafah in southern Gaza, he said the agency had on Monday held a meeting with adolescents.

Several said they were so desperate for this nightmare to end that they hoped to be killed, he said.

Israels retaliatory campaign against Hamas has killed at least 32,333 people in Gaza, most of them women and children, according to the health ministry.

The UN has warned that Gaza is facing a looming famine, spurring increasingly urgent appeals for Israel to open up more border crossings and to stop hampering the movement of aid through the Palestinians territory.

The Israelis have a right to control. They inspect every single gram, litre, kilo of whatever goes into Gaza, Jens Laerke, spokesman for the UN humanitarian agency, told reporters.

But they cannot say that once its inside, we leave it with you. They must create this enabling environment that allows us to move it around. We need to dispel this notion that their obligation with getting aid in somehow stops with getting a few trucks, a fraction of what is needed, across the border, he said.

That is not correct.

Elder meanwhile pointed out that the Israelis had denied a quarter of the 40 mission requests to the north since the beginning of the month.

Now there is an existing old crossing point that could be used in the north 10 minutes from where those people are putting their hands to their mouth pleading for food, he said, referring to the Erez Crossing.

10 minutes. Open that and we could turn this humanitarian crisis around in a matter of days. But it remains closed. Lets be clear, life-saving aid is being obstructed, lives are being lost, dignity is being denied.
AFP | Moscow

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The head of Russia's FSB security agency claimed Tuesday that Western and Ukrainian special services had aided the attackers who stormed a Moscow concert hall last week, killing dozens.

Russia continues to allege Ukraine was somehow involved in Friday's massacre, even after President Vladimir Putin acknowledged "radical Islamists" had carried it out.

"We believe the action was prepared both by the radical Islamists themselves and, of course, facilitated by Western special services, and Ukraine's special services themselves have a direct connection to this," FSB head Alexander Bortnikov was cited as saying by Russian news agencies.

He also repeated the Kremlin's claim that the attackers tried fleeing over the Ukrainian border, an assertion that Kyiv has called absurd.

"I'll let you in on a little secret: they were going to be greeted as heroes on the other side," Bortnikov said.

He added that while Russia understood who organised the attack, "the one who ordered it has not been identified yet".

He did not provide evidence for his assertions and Ukraine has vehemently denied any role.

Islamic State jihadists have said several times since Friday that they were responsible, and IS-affiliated media channels have published graphic videos of the gunmen inside the venue.
OTTAWA, ON, March 27, 2024 /CNW/ - A surge in apartment construction, particularly in Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, more than offset declines in single-detached and semi-detached construction, causing the overall level of new home construction in Canada's six largest cities for 2023 to remain virtually unchanged from 2022. This according to the latest Housing Supply Report (HSR), released today by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), which examines new housing construction trends in Canada's six largest census metropolitan areas (CMAs).

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporations (CMHC) Deputy Chief Economist, Aled ab Iorwerth (CNW Group/Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC))

Apartment construction, which includes both purpose-built rental and condominium apartments, reached record levels in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Ottawa. Montreal, however, hit an 8-year low.

Purpose-built rental units accounted for a greater proportion of apartment starts in 2023, compared to historical averages, reflecting an unprecedented level of rental demand. Record condominium apartment starts reflected robust pre-sale activity and favourable borrowing rates secured before 2023.

The HSR also examines supply-side challenges, including high construction and financing costs, the complexity of developing larger projects and labour shortages. Construction timelines for all dwelling types were above historical averages in 2023, reflecting some of these challenges.

You can download and read the entire Housing Supply Report (HSR) on the CMHC website.

Housing starts by dwelling type in 2023 and percentage change from 2022, select CMAs



Single-Detached Semi-Detached Row Apartment Total

Units 2022-2023

% change Units 2022-2023

% change Units 2022-2023

% change Units 2022-2023

% change Units 2022-2023

% change Vancouver 2,832 -16.5 % 914 -11.9 % 1,922 -15.1 % 27,576 43.0 % 33,244 27.9 % Calgary 5,875 2.1 % 1,674 7.3 % 2,996 33.5 % 9,034 16.6 % 19,579 13.1 % Edmonton 5,032 -18.5 % 948 -0.8 % 2,069 18.4 % 5,135 -10.1 % 13,184 -9.6 % Toronto 4,721 -25.4 % 328 -36.2 % 4,860 -14.0 % 37,519 15.0 % 47,428 5.1 % Ottawa 1,535 -44.9 % 186 -33.6 % 1,678 -37.6 % 5,846 2.1 % 9,245 -19.5 % Montreal 1,021 -44.3 % 208 -59.5 % 342 -58.6 % 13,664 -34.9 % 15,235 -36.9 % Total 21,016 -20.0 % 4,258 -12.4 % 13,867 -10.1 % 98,774 7.3 % 137,915 -0.5 %

Quote:

"There were a large number of housing starts in 2023, particularly in the rental segment, which is good progress, but not enough to improve affordability. The concern now shifts to whether construction of apartments will hold at these high levels in 2024. Clearly the demand for housing exists, particularly in rental, but financing costs could become too heavy for homebuilders to begin construction on large multi-family projects at the same pace seen in 2023."

- Aled ab Iorwerth, Deputy Chief Economist for the CMHC

Quick facts:

The Apartment Construction Loan Program (ACLP) is the largest program in the federal government's National Housing Strategy (NHS) and provides low-cost loans to eligible purpose-built rental developers. The 2023 Fall Economic Statement announced an additional $15 billion in new loan funding, starting in 20252026, bringing the program's total to over $40 billion in loan funding, supporting the construction of 101,000 new rental homes by 2031-32.

is the largest program in the federal government's and provides low-cost loans to eligible purpose-built rental developers. The announced an additional in new loan funding, starting in 20252026, bringing the program's total to over in loan funding, supporting the construction of 101,000 new rental homes by 2031-32. In January 2024 , the federal government announced the Apartment Construction Loan Program (ACLP) would make low-cost loans available to homebuilders for the construction of more housing for university students on- and off-campus. This reform to the ACLP will help more students find housing they can afford close to where they study.

, the federal government would make low-cost loans available to homebuilders for the construction of more housing for university students on- and off-campus. This reform to the ACLP will help more students find housing they can afford close to where they study. MLI Select is a multi-unit mortgage loan insurance product from CMHC which was introduced in March 2022 . It uses a points system to offer insurance incentives based on affordability, energy efficiency, and accessibility to homebuilders for new rental construction.

is a multi-unit mortgage loan insurance product from CMHC which was introduced in . It uses a points system to offer insurance incentives based on affordability, energy efficiency, and accessibility to homebuilders for new rental construction. In September 2023 , the federal government committed to removing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on all new qualifying rental housing construction.

Related Articles:

Information on this news release:

View the related podcast with report author and CMHC Deputy Chief Economist, Aled ab Iorwerth on CMHC's YouTube channel.

Get the most up-to-date information on housing research by subscribing to CMHC's Housing Updates newsletter.

For more information, or to request interviews with CMHC experts:

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

SOURCE Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)

For further information: CMHC Media Relations, [email protected]
VANCOUVER, BC, March 27, 2024 /CNW/ - A chance meeting 18 years ago of two dads dropping off their kids for kindergarten has started a technology journey that may change the face of protection against online harm.

The dads are Praveen Varshney and Charles Gadalla, partners in a new company called Verifiction ( link to website ), based in Vancouver, which uses 17 different algorithms monitoring factors from blood flow to light sensitivity to determine the likelihood of content being real or fake.

Verifiction founders Praveen Varshney (second from left) and Charles Gadalla (right) believe their new AI technology can provide protection for the next generation. With them (from left to right) are their children, Aneesh and Jaiya Varshney, and Shannon and Troy Gadalla. (CNW Group/Verifiction)

"I can't believe that a guy I met dropping my kids off at school would today be my partner in one of the most exciting business ventures launching in our city in the coming weeks," said Mr. Varshney, Principal Partner of Varshney Capital, which specializes in investing in technology and social impact ventures.

Mr. Gadalla, who is CEO of Verifiction, previously worked in senior product development capacities with tech companies around the world, including seven years with SAP.

"I think we found something that perfectly aligns with new efforts by the government of Canada that were announced on February 26 to protect people from the serious threat of deepfakes," said Mr. Varshney, an FCPA and graduate of the Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia.

Digital images, voices, videos, or text manipulated or generated by artificial intelligence have recently become widespread. Celebrities, businesses, and students are increasingly targeted by those who use this technology for extortion, manipulation, or reputation damage. Verifiction, which is a registered member of the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA), offers the first service that will provide the ability to fully address cases involving non-consensual private videos without additional tools or systems.

Collaborating with international partners in India, Germany and the United States, Verifiction has created a team of world-leading computer scientists that are meeting the growing threat of deepfakes head-on.

"We offer a 95 per cent accuracy score on every video," said Mr. Gadalla, a graduate of the Ivey Business School at the University of Western Ontario. "We are now prepared to provide it to those who need it most."

Mr. Varshney and Mr. Gadalla are now working with universities and global news agencies to find early adopters who will utilize the project and promote it to others. One of the first people they spoke to was Kate White, Senior Associate Dean, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Sustainability at the UBC Sauder School of Business.

"Departments like mine are working every day to achieve equity, diversity and inclusion. Hopefully this technology will help bring that closer," said Professor White. "What I was particularly impressed with was the potential of Verifiction to give consumers a real sense of security of their identity."

Mr. Varshney and his spouse have two children, Aneesh, an entrepreneurship student at the Sauder School of Business, and Jaiya, a recent Sauder graduate. Mr. Gadalla and his spouse's children, Shannon and Troy, are both in high school. Just like their relationship, the dads' goal for Verifiction begins and ends with their children.

"One thing that Praveen and I agree on is we would do anything for our kids," said Mr. Gadalla.

SOURCE Verifiction

For further information: Charlie Echlin, Account Manager, Brown & Cohen Communications & Public Affairs, [email protected], (647) 649-7646
Blackrock CEO Larry Fink pushes getting rid of 65 year old retirement age as part of Social Security Reform.

The retirement funding problem is also related to depopulation. Social Security started in the US in 1935 and there were 9 working age people for every one retired person. This is dropping to one working age person to one retired person. If we tax 40% of the working person wage, then after paying for the government there is 10% to pay retired people. How far can an old person get on 10% of the money of one working person?

Larry Fink has a net worth of about $1.2 billion and controls the $10 trillion Blackrock fund assets.

Social Security system that has said it will not be able to pay full benefits by 2034.

The 71-year-old believes the American retirement system has entered such a deep crisis that it has become a once-in-a-generation issue.

Fink said it is worth taking a look at when Americans are expected to start accessing Social Security benefits, typically a sensitive topic that no politician wants to touch. He noted potential solutions including either raising the age for benefits or finding ways to encourage working later.

No one should have to work longer than they want to, he said. But I do think its a bit crazy that our anchor idea for the right retirement age, 65 years old, originates from the time of the Ottoman Empire.

Increasing lifespans create further difficulties when trying to improve the retirement system, Fink said. This issue is of increasing relevance as blockbuster weight loss drugs have already begun drastically reshaping the health-care landscape. [aka He believes weight loss drugs that work will make people healthier and live longer and need more retirement funds.]




Edwin Clark, convener of Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), says military personnel searching for killers of 17 soldiers raided his house in Kiagbodo, Burutu LGA of Delta state.

On March 14, some personnel of the Nigerian Army  comprising a lieutenant colonel, two majors, one captain, and 12 soldiers  were killed by youths while on a peacekeeping mission in Okuama.

The military had vowed to hunt down the killers of the soldiers.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Clark said military personnel conducting a search operation of the suspects linked to the killing of the soldiers, raided his home.

The elder statesman, however, said the army later apologised to him.

At about 6 pm on Saturday, 23rd March 2024, I got a telephone call from someone who identified himself as the commanding officer of the Nigerian Army division in Port Harcourt, Clark said.

He said that a tracker of the Nigerian Army had tracked one Mr. Vote, the community chairman of Okuoma community whom the army was looking for in respect of the killings of the 17 men of the Nigerian Army, to a house in Ughelli and that the military men had broken into the house, ransacked it before they were informed that the house belongs to me, that he was very sorry and apologising to me on behalf of the army.

In my usual way and as a leader who is expected to condone as much as possible, I accepted his apology wholeheartedly but told him that I do not own a house in Ughelli, that the house he is referring to could be my fathers.

I went on to sympathise with the Nigerian Army over the gruesome murder of the soldier, an action I had condemned severally the moment I heard of it in the news.

I assured him that we would all work within our powers to avail the security agencies with any available information that would unravel the whole thing and bring the perpetrators to book. We ended the discussion on a cordial note.

It was not long after that, I was inundated with calls from my home, Kiagbodo, telling me how the army had invaded my country home by land and by air. They came in about 5 trucks loaded with armed soldiers numbering between 30 and 40.

They used their legs to break open all the doors in the compound, including the security door to my sitting room which was locked because I reside in Abuja. At the same time, flying their drone within the premises.

Some of them went to the buildings behind the main house and also broke all the doors that were locked. They marched out my staff living in those buildings, including lecturers at the university, and made them sit on bare ground.

MY BROTHERS SON WAS STRIPPED NAKED

Clark said the soldiers also raided the home of his late brother, Akporode Blessing Clark, who was a former Nigerian permanent representative to the United Nations (UN).

They brought out his son almost naked. The young man was taking a bath when they stormed the house, the elder statesman said.

All their phones were seized. The people had to identify themselves and tell them whose house it was before they asked for my telephone number, which they said they would pass to their oga before they all departed.

One would have expected that at this juncture, a call could have been put to the governor of Delta state to inform him of what happened.

I immediately called back the commanding officer to tell him of the actions of his men. And he said he was aware and that was why he called to apologise.

Before continuing, let me play the devils advocate by stating that the army may not know that the house they went to in Kiagbodo is my country home.

Clark cautioned military authority against disrespectful and unlawful operations.

I deserve to be respected, left to live in peace, safety and tranquillity. I have very high regard for the Nigerian Army, he said.




Former Big Brother Naija housemate, Chizzy Francis, has welcomed first child with his wife.





The reality star announced the arrival of their baby via X on Tuesday.





He wrote, I asked God for a princess but he gave me an heir to the throne.





Chizzy tied the knot with his lover at a traditional wedding in Anambra, in November 2023.





Chizzy participated in the 7th edition of the Big Brother Naija reality show.
Olayemi Cardoso, governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), says it is not in the purview of the apex bank to regulate or prosecute actors in the cryptocurrency sector.

Cardoso clarified this at a news conference on Tuesday after the monetary policy committees (MPC) 294th meeting in Abuja.

On February 29, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, accused cryptocurrency trading platforms of manipulating the value of the naira in the foreign exchange market.

The federal government has since launched a clampdown on Binance, a cryptocurrency exchange.

According to Cardoso, the regulation of cryptocurrency platforms is the duty of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Nigeria, and the national advisers office and not that of the CBN.

A month ago, we actually did have collaboration with law enforcement agencies, EFCC, the SEC and other regulatory bodies as well. And I think what came out of that, quite frankly, is work in progress, but also very positive, he said.

Weve been sharing information together. However, in this particular case the responsibility for regulating cryptocurrency is not our role.

It is not ours. It is strictly that of the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC). That is not our responsibility.

Of course, the issue of people being held in custody, again strictly speaking is the Office of the National Security Adviser.

That is not within the purview of the central bank. Unfortunately, there is nothing to report to you or tell you. We just want to clarify that is really the relationship the central bank has on this matter.

CLAMPDOWN ON BINANCE

On February 28, two Binance top executives  Nadeem Anjarwalla, a 37-year-old British-Kenyan and Binances regional manager for Africa; and Tigran Gambaryan, a 39-year-old US citizen and Binances head of financial crime compliance  were detained by the Nigerian authorities for weeks.

Subsequently, a federal high court in Abuja ordered Binance Holdings Limited to provide the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with the comprehensive data or information of all persons from Nigeria trading on its platform.

On March 25, the office of the national security adviser (ONSA) confirmed Nadeem Anjarwalla had escaped its custody.

Anjarwalla was said to have escaped after guards on duty led him to a nearby mosque for prayers in the spirit of the ongoing Ramadan fast.

He is believed to have flown out of Abuja using a Middle Eastern airline  but how he got on an international flight despite his British passport, was unknown.








The people of Omagwa and Ipo communities in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State have barricaded the entrance of the Port Harcourt International Airport while protesting lack of power supply and other amenities.





The protest has disrupted flight operations as air travellers are stranded, just as the situation has caused a gridlock stretching from the Airport Road to adjoining communities.





The protesters, who trooped out as early as 7am on Wednesday, lamented that despite hosting the international airport and suffering from noise pollution daily, they are not paid any form of compensation and there are no good schools in the area.

One of the protesters, who gave his name as Oki, accused the airport authorities of neglect, saying, We in Omagwa and Ipo dont have light for over 10 years. We want compensation for the noise pollution coming from the airport every day. We are tired. That is why we are here.




Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State said on Monday that the submission of memoranda by state governors for state police was nothing short of a futile exercise.

In an interview on Channels TVs Politics Today, Makinde criticised the recent submission of reports by 16 governors to the National Economic Council, advocating for the establishment of state police.

Sixteen state governors submitted reports last week expressing their support for establishing state police to the National Economic Council.

They also recommended changes to the constitution to allow for the creation of state police.

While the proponents argue that state police would alleviate the nations security challenges, Makinde, along with 20 other governors, remains unconvinced.

He dismissed the approach, asserting that tackling the issue of state police should squarely rest with the National Assembly, not the NEC or the National Security Adviser.

However, 20 other governors had yet to forward their reports to enable the NEC to act on them.

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Reacting, Makinde, who clarified that he did not submit any memoranda on state policing, deemed the submission a futile endeavour.

I did not submit any memorandum to the state police. But my position is very clear about state police. I see it, quite frankly, as a waste of our time.

I did not submit, not because of arrogance but because I dont think the approach will quickly get us to where we want to go. You are asking the states to submit memoranda on how state police will work, he stated.

Makinde emphasised that the state police issue should be handled by the National Assembly, given its constitutional nature, before being adopted by state Houses of Assembly.

The National Assembly knows what to do. They have people who can quickly do this work. It is not the National Security Adviser or the National Economic Council that will deal with the issue of state police.

It is a constitutional thing and should go to the National Assembly. Then, at the state level, we get our state Houses of Assembly to pass this law, the governor added.




Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured the people of the state that his administration will collaborate and continue to consult widely in delivering a liberated state experiencing enduring peace.

The governor said in doing so, he would not operate as a dictator, but as a member of a team that has the best interest of the state at heart and is determined to leave a lasting legacy that can be celebrated.

The governor spoke during the presentation of the Certificate of Recognition and Staff of Office to the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, Ateke Michael Tom, as first-class tradition ruler, at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.

This was contained in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Tuesday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Nelson Chukwudi.

Fubara stated that during the sixth State Executive Council meeting, N80.8 bn was approved with 50 per cent contract value paid already as the government awarded the construction of the Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road.

He said the project will be funded from the savings from Internally Generated Revenue to underscore his administrations prudence without also borrowing to complete the project.

Fubara said, We are at a crossroads in our state where we all need to stand for what is right. It happens once in a lifetime. So, for now, be one of those people who will be on the course to liberate and free our dear state.

And I know strongly that having the support of a peace-loving Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, having the support of the wonderful Council of Chiefs, having the support of the great people of Rivers State, we will bring peace in our state.

We will do those things that are right to develop our state. We will continue to consult. We will not act as dictators. We will act as people who know that one day, we will leave, and when we leave, the way we have acted will speak for us.

Continuing, he said,  We will not force people to talk good about us. Our legacy will be a signature for how we led.

Fubara explained that he acted within the ambit of the law to upgrade the traditional stool upon which King Ateke Tom sits in recognition of his efforts in promoting peace in Okrika, and indeed, the state, and urged him to continue to do justice to everyone.

In his speech, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Charles Amadi, congratulated King Ateke Tom.

Also speaking, former Minister of Transportation, Chief Abiye Sekibo, thanked Fubara for fulfilling his promise of upgrading the traditional stool of Okochiri Kingdom, and pledged the support of Kirike people for his administration.




Lawyers of embattled United States, US, music executive, Sean Combs popularly known as P. Diddy, have described the raid on his residence as a witch-hunt.





Aaron Dyer said the raid on Diddys residence was a witch-hunt based on accusations without merit.





US Federal agents had raided the residence of the rap mogul following allegations of his alleged sexual involvement with underage girls and other atrocities.





However, a statement by Dyer said: Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr Combs residences.





This unprecedented ambush  paired with an advanced, coordinated media presence  leads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits.





But Combs is the target of several civil lawsuits that characterise him as a violent s3xual predator who used alcohol and drugs to subdue his victims.





He has faced at least four lawsuits from people who say he s3xually abused them, with allegations dating back decades.





Combs, who has not been criminally convicted, denies all the allegations.





There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations. Mr Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name, Dyer added.
Matthew Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto diocese, has asked the federal government to interrogate key Nigerians who claim to have close ties with bandits.

On March 20, the federal government said it uncovered the identity of 15 entities, including nine individuals and six Bureau De Change operators and firms, allegedly involved in terrorism financing.

In an interview with Channels Television on Tuesday, Kukah said it is clear that the government, through intelligence, knows what is going on.

He added that those who have publicly claimed ties with the bandits should be interrogated.

It is clear that the federal government at the highest level knows what is going on. At least the intelligence community has an idea, he said.

There are key Nigerians who are saying openly that they know more than they think the rest of us know, and I think that it is the business of the federal government to find out those who claim to know where the bandits are; those who are collaborating and cooperating with the bandits.

It is the greatest humiliation of our nation. The security agencies in collaboration with those who have said openly that they know what is going on I think the federal government has the capacity to go after those people.

There has been an uptick in kidnapping for ransom in Nigerias northern region in the last decade.




Journalists have been barred from entering the Grand Seasons Hotel in Nnewi, Anambra State, venue of the Labour Partys National Convention.





There is heavy security presence at the hotel and this is not unconnected with the crisis in the party.





Series of calls and text messages sent to the spokesman of the party, Obiorah Ifoh, urging him to allow journalists with tags access into the venue was rebuffed.





Meanwhile, five persons, who were branded hoodlums, have been arrested at the venue and taken to the police headquarters for questioning.





The hoodlums were said to be distributing inciting leaflets critical of the leadership of the party.





They were accused of trying to cause a crisis at the ongoing convention.





A party source said the intention of the criminal elements and their sponsors was to destabilize the convention.





Recall that the Labour Party has been experiencing crisis following party leadership tussle over who becomes the national chairman of the party, a move many political watchers see as discouraging.
Dennis Amachree, a former assistant director of the Department of State Services (DSS), says the office of the national security adviser (ONSA) should have transferred Nadeem Anjarwalla, a Binance executive, to the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the secret police.

Arrested in February, Anjarwalla, Binances regional manager for Africa, escaped from the custody of the ONSA on March 25, and fled the country on a smuggled passport.

Speaking during an interview on Channels TVs Politics Today programme, Amachree said the ONSA is a security agency with no detention facility.

The ex-DSS director said Anjarwalla and Tigran Gambaryan, his colleague at Binance, should have been placed on a watchlist with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

He said the images and names of the Binance executive should have been flagged at all airports across the country.

If the man has been flagged as a threat or a suspected person, he should have been watchlisted, Amachree said.

I dont know whether the NSA has a detention facility. The NSA is an advisory body to the President.

So, if he (NSA Nuhu Ribadu) felt that the suspects should be remanded, he should have sent him to the EFCC or the DSS to keep until the date of the court but to keep him in a guest house where he has access to a telephone?

For them now to allow him to go and pray? I think there are a lot of loopholes and lapses there.

We have held heads of state in detention and they prayed where they live and eat and sleep. So, I dont see why this particular guy will be allowed to go to the nearest mosque to pray and disappeared. There is a compromise.

Amachree said the fleeing suspect must have collaborated with some conniving security agents.

Im happy theyve arrested some of them. Let them interrogate them and tell us how much he gave them, he said.

On February 28, two of Binances top executives  Anjarwalla, a 37-year-old British-Kenyan and Binances regional manager for Africa; and Gambaryan, a 39-year-old US citizen and Binances head of financial crime compliance, were detained by the Nigerian authorities for weeks.

Anjarwalla and Gambaryan had flown into Nigeria but had their passports seized by ONSA.

On March 12, Anjarwalla was transferred to a local hospital after he fell ill while in detention in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, following the arrest of the two executives as a part of a broader clampdown on crypto platforms, a federal high court in Abuja ordered Binance Holdings Limited to provide the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with comprehensive data or information on all persons from Nigeria trading on its platform.

The federal government, on March 25, also accused Binance of evading tax and failing to register with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), charging the cryptocurrency firm with a criminal offense.




The Presidency has confirmed that President Bola Tinubu will attend the burial ceremony of 17 military personnel killed in Delta State.

Tinubus Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said unlike former President Muhammadu Buhari who failed to attend burial of slain soldiers in 2021 and 2018, Tinubu will be attending.

In a post on his X handle on Wednesday, Onanuga said it will be the first time a President would be paying the last respect to soldiers killed in service in the last 10 years.

It is confirmed that President Bola Tinubu will be attending the national burial for the Nigerian military officers and soldiers killed on 14 March by some gunmen in Okuama community in Delta State.

It is the first time in the last ten years that a Nigerian President will attend such a solemn event, in honour of our men of gallantry and valor.

Two other burials in 2021 and 2018 were not graced by the incumbent. We told you then that @officialABAT cares. He is demonstrating it yet again, Onanuga said in the post.

Tinubu had earlier mentioned last week that there would be a befitting burial for the 17 soldiers who were killed while on a peacekeeping mission in Delta State.
Despite New Jerseys offshore wind development facing headwinds, a community college is planning to begin offering technical training to those in the field, beginning with over a dozen students.

Atlantic Cape Community College, which operates three campuses, broke ground in 2021 on its Wind Training Center, a 1,700-square-foot facility made possible through about $2.9 million in state grants.

Beginning in April, the college will begin offering safety courses aligned with Global Wind Organization standards at the facility, an add-on to its Charles D. Worthington Atlantic City campus.
Police arrested a South Jersey man on charges that he broke into an Atlantic County tattoo shop, stealing equipment from inside the business later found inside his home, authorities said.

Vito C. Anderson, 38, of Pleasantville, is accused of breaking into Gold Leaf Tattoo on the White Horse Pike in Galloway Township, police said Wednesday. Township officers were called to the business on Monday, but police did not say when the burglary happened.

Attorney information for Anderson was not immediately available.
A former corrections officer admitted Monday that he orchestrated two different scams, including a cryptocurrency scam, that targeted first responders and cost his victims more than $600,000, federal prosecutors announced Tuesday.

John DeSalvo, 47, of Linwood, pleaded guilty in Newark federal court to two counts of securities fraud, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorneys Office District of New Jersey.

DeSalvo created a a digital token he called Blazar Token in 2021 and marketed it on social media to police, fire personnel, EMTs, and other first responders with the promise that it would supplement their pension plans, the office said.

He promised investors that Blazar would offer more stability than any other token and that the value of Blazar would continue to rise over time similar to any investment fund, only at a much higher rate of success, authorities said.

He told potential investors they were guaranteed rates of return of more than 20% with zero risk and tricked them with a series of misrepresentations, including that the coin was approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission and would be available for purchase on major exchanges, investigators said.

DeSalvo received about $620,000 from investors and frequently transferred the funds into his personal accounts, officials said.

In May 2022, he sold off more than 41 billion tokens, which caused the price of the currency to plummet, leaving someone who made an initial investment worth $1,000 left with a dwindling value of about $1.15, according to a previously-released criminal complaint. The value of Blazar never recovered, causing most investors to lose their entire investments.

In the second scheme, which happened around the same time as the crypto scheme, DeSalvo created an online investment group that he touted on social media, the office said.

He falsely bragged about his investment skills to potential investors, claiming that he had an average return of about 1,200% over a two-year period, investigators said.

He received about $100,000 from members of the group before he transferred the funds to his personal accounts and notified investors that their losses were due to poor market conditions, according to the release.

The funds that DeSalvo withdrew in the two scams were used for personal expenses, high-risk cryptocurrency day trading, credit card bills, payments to a contractor who performed work on his home and making payments to previous investors in a Ponzi-like scheme, the criminal complaint stated.

DeSalvo is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 6. He faces a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $5 million, the office said.

DeSalvo worked for the New Jersey Department of Corrections for 13 years before retiring in 2010, according to Amy Z. Quinn, a spokeswoman for the agency.

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Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
Celebrated rock drummer Josh Freese announced he will tour with A Perfect Circle in April, marking his return to the alt-metal band 13 years after his last performance with them.

The shows are part of frontman Maynard James Keenans 60th birthday celebration. Keenan will host a Sessanta event that includes his bands Puscifer and A Perfect Circle, as well as Primus, from April 2 to May 4. Freese performed on the first three by A Perfect Circle albums: Mer De Noms, Thirteenth Step and Emotive.

Freese announced the news via an Instagram post earlier this week.

Happy to report that for the first time in 13 years Ill be going out with A Perfect Circle on the upcoming Sessanta tour, Freese wrote in a caption. Due to my schedule with the Foo Fighters, Ill be having to jump off after the Hollywood Bowl on April 20.

Gunnar from Puscifer will be filling in on the remaining dates (maybe a little Tim Alexander too?) Theres a chance Ill be able to show up to another gig or two after that if time allows but for now thats the plan, he continued. A Perfect Circle has always been a very special band for me and Im really looking forward to getting out and playing these songs again.

Following the tour, Freese will hand over the baton to Puscifers Gunnar Olsen before returning to Foo Fighters. Last year, Freese was announced as the new drummer for Foo Fighters after the passing of Taylor Hawkins.

He has also worked with Nine Inch Nails, Guns N Roses, The Offspring and more.

A Perfect Circle, Puscifer and Primus will play Etess Arena at the Hard Rock casino in Atlantic City April 6 for the Sessanta tour.

More music coverage

Saleah Blancaflor may be reached at sblancaflor@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @saleyley and Instagram.
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Hes the worlds most popular artist, his works sell for tens of millions, and he counts Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie among his collectors. Yet the public doesnt even know his real name. Banksy, the British graffiti master, has set the 21st-century artworld ablaze, with unauthorized murals, public pranks, and mockery of the art marketplace.

Soon, a technology-drive exhibit that surrounds viewers with images of his work will arrive in New Orleans.

World of Banksy, scheduled for June, is described as an all-new kind of exhibition that will amplify Banksys themes through the lens of immersive and digital technology.

Its unclear if any original paintings or prints by the superstar street artist will be included.

The World of Banksy preview publicity touts the artists sometimes provocative political views. The selection of images is said to explore the intersection of Banksy's art with global geopolitical tensions and social justice movements.
Over the past few months, Lafitte Greenway regulars have watched as a clay-red pyramid has risen in the meadow at 1900 Lafitte Ave., near the intersection of North Miro Street. Wooden steps lead to the flattened plateau on top, surrounded by a rough-hewn wooden safety barrier. From that vantage point, visitors can survey the popular grassy park that connects Mid-City and the Treme neighborhood.

The mound was built by a team of artists of Native American descent and volunteers who believe theres room in the cityscape for public monuments devoted to the often-unheralded people who contributed mightily to New Orleans culture. The new landmark is reminiscent of the ceremonial mounds created by indigenous people long before the arrival of European colonists. Louisiana is home to some of the oldest such earthworks on the continent. The mysterious Poverty Point earthwork, near Pioneer Louisiana, is more than 3,000 years old.
After Saturdays elections, Louisiana Democratic Party Chair Katie Bernhardt's chances of keeping her position as party head arent looking good.

At least one candidate, former state Rep. Randal Gaines of LaPlace, 68, has already announced hes running for chair. And there are a host of candidates who may also challenge Bernhardt, who despite losing her own race Saturday has said she will defend her role as chair.

Other potential candidates include 32-year-old Louisiana Public Service Commissioner Davante Lewis, who has said hes considering a run, two-time statewide candidate Caroline Fayard, 24-year-old Bogalusa Mayor Tyrin Truong and state Rep. Jason Hughes of New Orleans.

Bernhardt on Saturday lost her seat on the Democratic State Central Committee, the 210-member body that elects the party chair and other leadership roles in the party. Attorney Madeleine Brumley Clavier defeated her handily, receiving 600 votes to Bernhardts 337 in a race with 12% turnout.

The new state committee also now includes 61 members of Blue Reboot, a reform group whose members have all pledged to vote against Bernhardt. Plus, committee members who supported her for chair in 2020 may not vote for her again, given Democrats poor showing in the elections last fall and hard feelings about her ad floating a run for governor last year.

She's a weakened candidate on every front, Blue Reboot organizer Lynda Woolard told Gambit. I haven't talked to many people or heard a tale of many people who are saying that she's the right course to continue taking.

Clavier, a Blue Reboot member, ran on a reform platform, saying the party needs to take strong positions on issues that Democratic voters care about rather than trying to play the middle out of fears of alienating conservative voters.

Running candidates who moderate on policy to try to win over conservative voters has not produced results, she wrote on her website. With polarization on the rise and voter turnout remaining stubbornly low, there is no reason to think it ever will.

Bob Mann, who spent more than two decades working in Louisiana Democratic politics, said hes never seen such a public effort to reform the party.

This is the most interest and most enthusiasm I've seen for the party in at least the last 20 years, he said.

Anyone can run for chair, not just those on the state committee. Gaines, Lewis and Hughes all have seats on the new DSCC. Fayard lost her DSCC race, while Truong didnt run for a seat on the committee.

Woolard says she believes Blue Reboot will try to have a unified voice" in the party chair race. Should Lewis run, as a Blue Reboot member, he could receive his fellow members votes.

While Bernhardt has not set a date yet for leadership elections, state law says the party must hold one within 40 days of Saturdays election.

Woolard, who ran against Bernhardt for chair in 2020, said that the next chair will need to work on bringing everybody together, unifying the party, but also motivating and inspiring voters.

But both she and Mann also agreed a new chair wont solve all the partys problems.

I don't think that it changes a whole lot if the only thing that changes is Katie Bernhardt for somebody else, Mann said.

Woolard said the chair will need Democrats working on all fronts  including at the local level and support staff and executive committee at the state level  to raise money and create programs to register Democrats and get them to the polls.

On that front, Woolard said she's encouraged by the fact that some Blue Reboot candidates who lost their DSCC race won their races for seats on their local Democratic Parish Executive Committees  which means they can work on building the party up at the parish level. She also said Blue Reboots efforts have inspired new faces to get involved in political organizing across the state.

I've repeatedly had people message me or say to me like, 'This is the first time I felt hope in a long time, she said. While it's just the beginning, I think it's been able to show people that if you organize and you get energized around something that you can make progress."
The Flag of Ukraine waves in the wind outside City Hall, Wednesday, March 16, 2022, in Baton Rouge, La. With it are, from left, the American Flag, Louisiana State Flag, City of Baton Rouge flag, the British Flag, the Flag of Castile and Len, and the French Fleur De Lis Flag.
Villagers in Petrockstowe, near Hatherleigh, have six months to come up with a viable plan for the parish church before it is put on the open market or demolished.

St Petrocs closed as a place of worship last year after it had fallen into disrepair and the congregation dwindled.

Work to make it watertight is estimated at 400,000.

Around 60 local residents who attended a village meeting on Saturday were in favour of saving the church for the community, and a working group has been set up to look into grant funding and alternative uses.

Torridge MP Sir Geoffrey Cox hosts public meeting in Petrockstowe. Image courtesy: Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin

Torridge and West Devons Conservative MP Sir Geoffrey Cox, who chaired the meeting, are encouraged by the number of residents who turned out.

It is clear there is a strong desire within the village to find a way to have the church reopened and I have committed to work with the local community in their search for a solution, he said.

Torridge District Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin (Lib Dem, Shebbear and Langtree), lead member for culture and community engagement, as well as a resident of the village, said: There has been a church on the site for hundreds, if not thousands of years. Preservation of the building goes beyond religion, and you dont have to be religious to recognise and appreciate the social history, and have a deep affection for what was for centuries the central hub of the village.

It is a beautiful historic building and I believe it deserves to be protected and preserved for future generations to admire and enjoy.

Local heritage adviser Emily Wapshott described it as a large building intended to serve a parish of around 3,000 acres, and said that to see it lost would have an undoubtedly negative heritage impact to the village and the wider landscape.

She continued: Whilst built to serve, it is now closed and languishing empty, with the risk of demolition. This area is sorely lacking in local cultural centres, amenities like post offices, as well as work opportunities for young people. With a newly established working party and bold future vision, this building could be adapted to once again provide for its community.

When the church was under threat last year, Anglicans and Methodists worked together to form the Petrockstowe Community Church which the meeting was told is now thriving.

They worshipped together in the Methodist chapel and numbers had boosted significantly, said churchwarden David French.

The Diocese of Exeter doesnt receive government funding to look after church buildings and relies on grants or the generosity of donors.

The church closed following widespread public consultation because the parochial church council (PCC) felt it was no longer sustainable in its current form, adding that many attempts had been made to get community support and funding.

As a charity, we would be delighted if a sustainable future use can be found for St Petrocs which would benefit the whole community.

We have agreed to delay wider marketing of the building for a period of six months to give a community group the opportunity to develop a viable project plan.

We have not asked for 400,000, but have asked that any group which wishes to purchase St Petrocs can cover the cost of essential repairs to the building.

We will support the community as far as we are able, in their efforts to preserve this historic building and ensure it remains at the heart of village life for generations to come.
The primary election is May 21 and ballots will be mailed May 1. There are only two races. One for County Commissioner Position #2, and the other for Deschutes County Sheriff. Both are four-year terms.

There are eight measures on the ballot, none affecting Sisters nor which Sisters voters can vote.

This is the first commissioner election since voters approved a measure to make such races non-partisan. Thus the top two vote getters will appear on the November ballot. Phil Chang is the incumbent for Position 2 and is seeking re-election. Judy Trego, executive director of Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce, and Rob Imhoff of Bend, owner of Broken Top Window Coverings, filed to run against Chang.

Samuel Facey of La Pine filed and then withdrew. Thirty minutes before the filing closing deadline, Brian Huntamer of Bend added his name to the race. Huntamer is currently unemployed but lists real estate, construction, and drug and alcohol counseling in his background statement.

More details of the candidates will be found in the voters pamphlet to be mailed prior to the election.

The Nugget asked each candidate a set of questions and their responses are as follows:

What strengths/assets do you bring to voters in Sisters Country (boundaries of Sisters School District)?

Imhoff: My focus is on "getting things done" to improve the lives of all citizens of Deschutes County. I have a proven track record of doing hard work and utilizing all of my relationships to get things accomplished. I will continually learn and grow from people around me, this includes everyone in Sisters Country. I think folks living in and around Sisters will find me to be approachable, honest, and focused.

Trego: I am running for Deschutes County Commissioner because I have the skills, experience, and temperament to do the job.

Huntamer: I am honest, a good communicator, empathetic, and experienced in working in collaboration with others in problem solving. I am a U.S. Army veteran with an extensive background in real estate and construction, and experience as an alcohol and drug counselor.

Chang: I know Sisters Country and many community leaders well because I have worked to improve public safety and maintain quality of life in the Sisters area for 20 years. I helped plan and implement hazardous fuels reduction projects on the Deschutes National Forest that helped prevent the Pole Creek Fire (2012) and the Milli Fire (2017) from burning into the City of Sisters, Tollgate, Crossroads, and Black Butte Ranch. I have helped to steward Whychus and Indian Ford Creeks so they provide better fish and wildlife habitat, run clean and cold, and pose less flood risk to nearby residences.

I learned a great deal about the hopes and concerns of Sisters Country residents when I staffed the first Sisters visioning project in 2006-2007. I've been involved in efforts to transfer portions of the Sisters Ranger District administrative site to City or private ownership since 2005  efforts that are now providing land for homes, businesses, and public spaces right in the center of the City.

Why should a Sisters Country citizen vote for you?

Imhoff: If we specifically focus on things that matter to Sisters, then traffic, wildfire, managed growth, and homelessness would require the most attention from our county leaders. I will work hard to listen and provide a voice for those citizens who are the most affected by each of these issues.

Trego: The Sisters community should vote for me because qualifications matter. I bring a breadth of knowledge and experience that includes my current position working for a small business association, as the founder and president for the Sisters Community Foundation, whose mission is to help people of limited means in the community, and I previously served as a community advocate in Sisters working to reduce the root causes of poverty for the Central Oregon Partnership.

My government experience includes: serving as chief of staff for an Oregon state senator, a constituent services manager for the U.S. House of Representatives, and as an elected Sisters city councilor and council president.

I currently serve on the Deschutes County budget committee and previously on the Deschutes County commission on Children and Families and the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council.

Huntamer: My bond with Sisters Country and Deschutes County is not just professional; it's profoundly personal. Since 1978, it has been my home, a place where I've raised my family and witnessed generations thrive. My children and grandchildren have been nurtured by the schools here, with some having graduated from Sisters High School and others currently pursuing their education in Bend. I personally received my higher education from COCC and OSU.

Chang: In my first term as Deschutes County Commissioner, I voted to allocate millions of the County's American Rescue Plan funds to affordable housing and child care projects in Sisters. I represented Sisters Country concerns about community wildfire protection to Salem, and helped get legislation, state agency support, and funding to help reduce risk to Sisters area homes. I've supported the City in thinking growth management and meeting state requirements for buildable land supply. I successfully advocated to expand County Homeless Outreach Service Team staffing in Sisters Country to help unhoused people with behavioral health take steps out of homelessness. I helped establish a partnership with the Deschutes Trails Coalition to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars in County Transient Room Tax revenue in trails projects in Sisters Country and beyond. In a second term I will keep focusing on making sure Sisters Country continues to be a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family.

I'm a pragmatic problem solver who uses input from community members and real data and analysis to tackle problems instead of partisan political ideology. I know how to bring people with diverse perspectives together to collaboratively develop solutions and then build public-public and public-private partnerships to implement solutions. I show up for Sisters City Council meetings, Citizens4Community forums, and major community events like the Folk Festival, and I offer Coffee with a Commissioner events and online Town Halls so that I can listen to the hopes and concerns of Sisters Country residents and answer County-related j19 questions.

What do you see as the biggest concerns facing citizens of Sisters Country?

Imhoff: I have heard from many Sisters Country residents who feel wildfire resilience is their biggest concern. I would agree, as we have seen in years past. This is specific to acquiring and maintaining insurance on their homes and property. We must have proper forest land management coupled with wildfire mitigation techniques, all while maintaining a strong level of access to the forests.

Trego: The largest concern facing Sisters is growth and the challenges that come with growth including workforce, affordable housing, infrastructure, and traffic. Homelessness has also been at the forefront of community discussions.

Huntamer: Sisters Country has grown a lot over the past several years, but is still a very desirable community; however, it faces several challenges including affordable housing, homelessness, traffic concerns, and public safety.

Chang: Workforce and affordable housing is extremely scarce in Sisters Country. This is why so many workers need to commute to Sisters, and it also explains why a significant number of people who work in the City of Sisters live unhoused on federal lands just outside the City. The underlying reasons for this shortage of affordable and workforce housing are the cost of building housing, the scarcity of buildable lands, and the decoupling of housing prices from local salaries and wages.

How would you remedy/mitigate those concerns?

Imhoff: Deschutes County should be a leader in wildfire and natural resource policies in Oregon. Resilience, working with federal and state partners, and mitigating wildfire risk to levels as low as possible, will be major tasks to focus on for our commission. To this end, all this comes with prioritizing our resources, including our firefighters. I get things done and will work hard to get this done for our friends and neighbors.

Trego: I will work with the city to support workforce, affordable housing, and infrastructure improvements, and continue to advocate for funding from the county, state, and federal government, as well as the private sector to develop sustainable workforce, affordable housing, and infrastructure. Sisters is a successful community built with innovation and a pioneering spirit. There are solutions to the homeless crisis facing our community.

I have been working in the area of homelessness prevention, reducing poverty, and substance abuse prevention for many years. I will partner with the Homeless Leadership Council, the Coordinated Office of Homelessness, the county and the private sector to address the serious challenges facing our homeless population and our community.

Huntamer: My strategy begins with listening-genuinely understanding the diverse needs of our citizens. I believe in fostering a collaborative effort between the community and government to tackle our challenges head-on. Homelessness, a particularly contentious issue, demands a balanced approach. My empathy for individuals seeking temporary shelter and food does not overlook the broader implications for public safety, community well-being, and the rights of landowners, schools, and the use of public lands.

Chang: In my time on the Board of Commissioners, the County has helped to address the cost of building housing by contributing funds to land purchases and construction costs for development of deed-restricted affordable housing with Habitat for Humanity and the City of Sisters. The County needs to help create long term local sources of public financing for affordable housing projects. In 2023 the County authorized development of Accessory Dwelling Units on rural residential properties outside incorporated cities in order to produce more workforce and affordable housing. The County can support the City of Sisters with increasing the supply of buildable lands by providing community development expertise and analysis as the City evaluates expanding its Urban Growth Boundary.
Poets will throw down in a poetry slam at The Lubeznik Center for the Arts next month.

The Lubeznik Center for the Arts at 101 W. 2nd St., Michigan City will host its First Friday Poetry Slam from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 5. The readings start at 5:30 p.m.

Audience members will serve as judges for the free event. They can cheer on the poets while checking out the art exhibits, enjoying refreshments and imbibing from a cash bar.

"This is a fun opportunity for local poets, from novices to seasoned performers, to showcase their work in a really creative, supportive environment," says Janet Bloch, LCA's executive director.

Poets from all backgrounds are invited to share their original work or a favorite poem. They should be prepared to perform poems under three minutes in length.

Marc Kelly Smith, who founded the Poetry Slam movement at Chicago's Green Mill Tavern in 1987, will emcee the poetry slam. He helped spread poetry slams to more than 1,000 cities in the world, including Tours, France, where he got a key to the city for his work with Ligue de Slam France. He's been knighted into the Order of Arts and Letters by the French Cultural Ministry among his many other orders over the years.

The poetry slam will have a new format that will include poetry performances, a fill-in-the-blank poem audience members can participate in and the Dumb Rhyming Word Game that was popularized at the Green Mill.

This year LCA's Poetry Slam will have a new format. It will begin with an open mic inviting performers to share their original poetry or favorite poems by other authors. Next, audience members will have the chance to become a poet themselves with a fill-in-the-blank poem, themed for the occasion. The slam will conclude with the Dumb Rhyming Word Game, made famous at the Green Mill. The winner of which will be crowned as this year's LCA Poetry Slam Champion.

To register as a poet, contact Jessie Sexton at 219-874-4900 ext. 107 or jsexton@lubeznikcenter.org.
The South Shore Shore will host a job fair Tuesday to fill various positions.

Northwest Indiana's longtime commuter railroad, which is expanding service throughout the Calumet Region through its Double Track and West Lake Corridor projects, hopes to hire people for multiple entry-level and mid-level positions that are now open. The job fair is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 2 at the Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive, Hammond.

Job openings include mechanical department shift supervisor, on-board ticket collector, patrol officer, railroad track laborer and relief terminal carman and cleaner. A full list of available openings will be posted online on the South Shore Line website.

South Shore Line representatives from several departments will meet with prospective employees, who can apply in person at the job fair on their phones. They may get job interviews on the spot.

Job seekers should dress professionally, bring copies of their resume and be prepared to interview.

The South Shore Line offers employees a number of benefits, including competitive pay, health care, training opportunities, tuition reimbursement, union membership, a 401(a), access to railroad retirement and growth opportunities.

Pay varies by position, but ticket collectors, for instance, make a starting wage of $20.67 per hour, with a 5% increase per year until they reach the maximum rate of $27.56. They can be promoted to conductor, a job that pays $30.82 an hour, or to engineer, which pays $31.84 an hour.

For more information, visit mysouthshoreline.com/nictd/careers/.
Two debates are scheduled next month for the Democratic candidates vying to serve Senate District 3 and House District 3 to speak about their qualifications to represent the interests of Lake County residents at the Indiana Statehouse.

The Senate debate, between state Sen. Dave Vinzant, D-Hobart, and Gary Councilman Mark Spencer, is set for 6 p.m. April 4 at the Dean and Barbara White Community Center, 6600 Broadway, Merrillville.

Democratic leaders in the 3rd Senate District, which includes portions of Gary, Hobart, Lake Station, Merrillville and New Chicago, in January selected Vinzant, a longtime Hobart councilman, to represent the district for the 11 months remaining in Eddie Melton's term after he resigned from the Senate to become Gary's mayor.

This year, the winner of the May 7 primary election will compete at the Nov. 5 general election for a four-year Senate term.

The House debate, between three-term state Rep. Ragen Hatcher, D-Gary, and Heather McCarthy, a Gary attorney, is scheduled for 6 p.m. April 11 at the Gary Public Library and Cultural Center, 220 W. 5th Ave.

The general election winner in the 3rd House District, which spans Gary's downtown and east side, Hobart, Lake Station and New Chicago, will serve a two-year term in the House.

Gallery: Get to know the state symbols of Indiana State Aircraft: Republic Aviation P-47 Thunderbolt State Bird: Cardinal State Flag State Flower: Peony State Fossil: Mastodon State Gun: Grouseland Rifle State Insect: Say's Firefly State Language: English State Motto: "Crossroads of America" State Nickname: The Hoosier State State Pie: Sugar Cream Pie (unofficial) State Poem: "Indiana" State River: Wabash State Seal State Snack: Indiana-Grown Popcorn State Song: "On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away" State Stone: Limestone State Tree: Tulip tree
LAPORTE  Triggered by notifications from license plate recognition cameras, area police were nearly crisscrossing each other Tuesday afternoon with vehicle pursuits along Interstate 94.

The Lake County Sheriff's Department pursued a reported stolen vehicle east along the busy highway shortly before noon and the LaPorte County Sheriff's Department pursued a different reported stolen vehicle westbound just a few hours later.

The Lake County pursuit began when the driver refused to stop and led a pursuit through Gary, Lake Station and into Porter County where the driver made a failed attempt to continue fleeing south on Ind. 49 in Chesterton, police said.

"Officers performed a maneuver to safely stop the vehicle," according to Lake County police.

The driver, who was not identified, was taken into custody without further incident and without anyone injured.

"Officers confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen from Broadview, Illinois."

Traffic surveillance camera nabs another alleged offender, Porter County cops say "The cameras have assisted us in countless investigations and in locating stolen vehicles, hit-and-run suspects, missing subjects, wanted subjects, and aided us in getting unlicensed drivers off the roads."

Then around 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, a LaPorte County police officer attempted to stop a reported stolen black SUV with Illinois license plates that was detected travelling east on U.S. 20 from U.S. 35.

The driver stopped momentarily in the Hunters Run subdivision before taking off, leading a pursuit west on U.S. 20 to Interstate 94 and then on to the Indiana Toll Road, police said.

The pursuit continued through Porter and Lake counties before ending at the Chicago Skyway Bridge Toll Plaza where the driver was taken into custody by Chicago police, according to police.

New Starbucks coming to downtown Portage, mayor announces "I think that in the warmer seasons, the coffee shop and library are going to compliment each other very nicely."

The driver, identified by police as James A. Simcoe, 43, of Norridge, Illinois, will be extradited back to LaPorte County to face criminal charges.

Other police agencies assisting in the pursuit included Michigan City, Trail Creek, Westville, Porter County and Indiana State Police.

"This is a prime example of how technology can become a critical tool allowing officers to quickly and effectively resolve crimes including stolen vehicle cases and take people into custody before they may commit further crime," Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. said of his department's pursuit. "I'm committed to continuing to advance the sheriffs department by investing in new technology that can help officers do their jobs."

Gallery: Recent arrests booked into LaPorte County Jail Kody Lowery Lorriel Smith Carlos Gipson Scott Fletcher Kenneth Fly Jr. William Carmichael Zackary Riley Garrick Doty Robert Reed Kathryn Kniola Sadiq Heyward Ashley McMillan Chelsea Hahn Leonard Frierson Kiera White Christine Lewis DeSean Tucker Michael Crump Quinton Dixon Joseph Swanson Ronald Blake Jr. Jose Rivera Jr. Cody Davis Robert Taylor Stephanie Pahl Kendrick Portis Sarah Williams Macy Blake Jeffery Lowry Debra Williams Timothy Armstrong Vincent Norwood Joseph Mourning Ronald Mashburn Joseph Swanson
The U.S. Secret Service and other federal investigators are looking into a former Geminus employee's suspected misappropriation of $636,000 in Emergency Rental Assistance funds during the coronavirus pandemic.

Regional Care Group and Geminus President and CEO Bill Trowbridge said the social service agency caught discrepancies in its records that led to the discovery of potential fraud by a former employee. An audit by the Indianapolis-based accounting firm Blue & Co. found a former employee misappropriated $636,000 by creating fictitious landlords to fraudulently request rental payments.

"An employee that created fictitious landlords circumvented internal controls to request rental payments from the Emergency Rental Assistance program for tenants that had already paid their rent," the accounting firm said in its audit. "An employee involved in the fraud has been terminated with evidence turned over to the authorities for prosecution and potential recovery. Additional finance personnel have been hired to improve internal controls surrounding the grant expenditure process. In addition, management has reported any suspicious payment activity made to landlords to the authorities and has suspended any future payments to those landlords."

Merrillville-based Geminus managed $40 million in emergency rental assistance for Lake County during the COVID-19 pandemic, Trowbridge said. It was a federal program designed to help people stay in their homes if they lost a job, got sick or were furloughed when coronavirus resulted in lockdowns, social distancing and capacity restrictions.

The social service agency, which provides services like Head Start, abuse prevention, domestic violence intervention, substance use prevention, case management, residential services and truancy prevention service, often handles state and federal grant funds. It does periodic spot audits to ensure only the appropriate personnel are gaining access to certain files for instance.

Geminus strongly suspected fraudulent transactions took place based on what it found in its normal internal audit procedures in July 2022, Trowbridge said.

"We check to keep an eye on things," he said. "When we dug into it, we found oddities worth noting and immediately contacted the Treasury Department about potential fraud since it was their funds. We notified the insurance companies and now it's out of our hands. We know the Treasury Department has been working the case."

Geminus turned records over to the U.S. Secret Service, which is best known for protecting the president but is also the Treasury Department's investigative arm. It immediately took action to prevent further loss.

"It was just one employee. No one else collaborated within Geminus but it may have been a part of a bigger scheme outside the organization," Trowbridge said. "Overall, it appears that the Lake County ERA program was an apparent victim of a sophisticated plan involving several people, not just our employee, to defraud the federal government and its COVID relief funds. It is our impression that the scheme targeted multiple ERA programs."

The federal government system quickly set up the Emergency Rental Assistance program as it was looking to get out relief fast to people affected by the pandemic. Local social services agencies distributed the funds in some Indiana communities like Lake, St. Joseph and Vanderburgh counties. Geminus was selected because of its experience distributing funds.

"If you looked around the whole country, there was about $1.4 billion in pandemic fraud," he said. "Unfortunately, they were looking to get the money out in a very short time with loose rules aimed at getting money out the door. Some saw an opportunity. It was really unfortunate."

No one who was supposed to get emergency rental relief did not as a result of the misappropriation, Trowbridge said. Geminus distributed the rest of the $40 million before the program was shut down. Anyone from Lake County who didn't receive the emergency funds from Geminus would have just applied to get the funds from the state, he said.

"There were hundreds of millions for the whole state," he said.

Geminus dug deep into its records to ensure the misappropriation was an isolated incident, Trowbridge said.

"As an organization we pride ourselves on providing significant services and doing them well while being fiscally responsible. Unfortunately, this situation did not have as strong controls that could prevent someone determined to commit fraud," he said. "It seemed to be a crime of opportunity. Someone who knew how to do it took advantage. It's despicable. We fortunately found no other losses."

The misappropriation had not had any impact on Geminus's services to the community.

"The victim is the federal government and its COVID relief funds  not Geminus," he said. "None of the amounts in question come from our accounts and have no impact on our finances or services. All the ERA funds flowed from the federal government."

Trowbridge said the hope is the investigation should be resolved soon.
VALPARAISO  A 35-year-old Cedar Lake man pleaded guilty this week to his role in the theft of thousands of dollars in scrap metal from the area U.S. Steel plants.

Jacob Reynolds will be placed on two years of formal probation and required to pay back $15,933 for the loss if the proposed plea agreement is accepted by Porter Circuit Court Judge Mary DeBoer during a hearing scheduled for May 2.

Reynolds will also have the opportunity to petition the court to reduce the felony charge to a misdemeanor if probation is completed successfully, according to court records.

He pleaded guilty to a felony count of aiding, inducing or causing theft.

The thefts in question came to light in August 2022 when an official at a Portage transport company reported the theft of a trailer loaded with $70,000 worth of scrap metal, police said.

The trailer was later found in Gary, but empty, police said.

While normal operations called for the trailers of scrap metal to be hauled from the U.S. Steel plant in Burns Harbor to company's property in Gary, police learned some loads were being diverted to a scrap yard in Gary.

After police obtained records showing several large cash deposits into Reynolds' bank account, he eventually admitted to taking part in thefts of the metal, police said.
U.S. Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind., is co-sponsoring legislation to require the president regularly update Congress and the American people on the national security risks posed by economic integration with China in key economic sectors.

The two-term Hoosier senator said recent years have demonstrated the economic and national security risks of relying on a strategic rival to supply essential industries operating in the United States.

"Our bipartisan bill would promote American economic independence and help mitigate any potential threats that may stem from future economic integration with China," Young said.

Under the plan, dubbed the "American Economic Independence Act," the president would have one year following enactment of the measure to provide Congress a report assessing the economic integration of China and the United States in 10 key sectors.

The report would evaluate the how much each sector relies on Chinese entities, including state-owned enterprises, for financial resources or supplies, as well as the risks posed by China relating to intellectual property theft, national defense and trade dumping.

The sectors to be covered by the report are: financial services, critical minerals, semiconductors and microelectronics, artificial intelligence, communications, quantum computing, cloud computing, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and medical technology, and manufacturing.

According to the legislation, the report must also include recommendations for mitigating any risks identified by the president.

"China is on a fast track to replace the United States as the global economic leader. Yet at the same time, we remain intertwined with China in virtually every sector of our economy," said U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, a co-sponsor of the proposal.

"We must consider the national security threats posed by U.S. economic integration with China  from critical minerals to manufacturing and everything in between  to effectively craft a strategy that mitigates these threats."

Under the plan, the president would be required to consult with top administration officials every three years and provide Congress with an updated report on U.S. economic integration with China.

The legislation currently is awaiting action by the Senate Finance Committee on which Young serves.

It still must advance out of committee, and be approved by the full Democratic-controlled Senate and the Republican-controlled House, to go to Democratic President Joe Biden to be signed into law.

PHOTOS: Sen. Todd Young visits Valparaiso University
An Illinois man who fired the shot that killed a Portage High School student in 2019 during an attempted robbery in Griffith received a fair trial, according to the Indiana Court of Appeals.

Elrice Williams, 30, of Park Forest, was sentenced to 97 years in prison after being convicted last year of murder in connection with the shooting death of 18-year-old Alayna Ortiz, along with three counts of attempted robbery, burglary and attempted burglary, according to court records.

Records show the fatal shooting occurred while Williams and several accomplices were attempting to rob Ortiz and three other people in a parked car after the perpetrators previously attempted to break into the home of an associate of Ortiz's boyfriend, followed the group as they drove away, and then doubled back and broke into the associate's residence to steal marijuana after the shooting.

Williams argued in his appeal, among other claims, that several of his convictions violated the constitutional prohibition on "double jeopardy," or twice being tried for the same crime, since they stemmed from the same criminal act.

The appeals court, in a 3-0 ruling, rejected Williams' contentions and affirmed all of his convictions, according to court records.

Specifically, the court observed that each of his most serious crimes had separate victims: Ortiz for murder, and each of the other occupants in the parked vehicle for attempted robbery.

"Following the plain language of the robbery statute, the state may properly charge multiple offenses of robbery where a defendant simultaneously attempts to take property from multiple persons. Williams's three level 3 felony attempted robbery convictions are therefore not contrary to Indiana law," the court said.

Likewise, the court concluded the attempted burglary that preceded the murder and attempted robbery, and the successful burglary that followed, were sufficiently distinct in time, place, singleness of purpose and continuity of action to constitute separate offenses.

"There is therefore no violation of (Indiana Supreme Court precedent) from Williams's convictions for level 4 felony attempted burglary and level 4 felony burglary," the court said.

Williams can still ask the Indiana Supreme Court to review his case. Otherwise, his earliest possible release date from prison, assuming good behavior, is Dec. 24, 2091, according to the Indiana Department of Correction.

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Stewart McMillan leaned down and whispered something to Daniel Davis.

Davis, whose nickname is Red Baron, was dying of cancer. He had less than two days to live. His last wish was to say goodbye to his elderly mother who lived in the St. Louis area. He was in no condition to drive there from Northwest Indiana in an ambulance.

A hospital social worker coordinated The Compassion Flight, as it was dubbed, thanks to generous donors who helped make it happen. McMillan, who then owned Task Force Tips in Valparaiso, was one of those people. He was the pilot of the plane that day.

Davis, a longtime member of the Invaders Motorcycle Club, was transported from a hospital to the Porter County Airport on a cold, bright day in early December, 2001. Fellow club members met him there to say their last goodbyes.

We knew it was the last time wed see him, his friend, Landfill, told me.

McMillan removed airplane seats to accommodate the oversized stretcher and extra medical equipment. He and Landfill struggled to hoist Davis into the plane. He stood six-feet, seven-inches tall and weighed more than 400 pounds in his heyday.

Please dont drop me, Davis joked.

The long line of bad ass gang members stood around and cried as we prepared to load him in the airplane, McMillan recalled.

At that time, McMillan rode a Honda Gold Wing motorcycle. So he leaned down and whispered to Davis, Say something nice about a Honda or youre not getting in the plane.

Oh man, youre killing me, replied Davis, who rode a Harley-Davidson. Dont make me do that in front of my brothers.

McMillan wouldnt budge.

Say something nice, he told Davis.

What color is it? Davis asked.

Yellow, McMillan said.

Yellow is a good color on a Honda, Davis finally said.

McMillan laughed.

Good enough, he said.

McMillan continued to load Davis stretcher into the Pilatus PC-12, a single-engine, high-performance aircraft that has a large cargo door, allowing it to also be used as an air ambulance.

He had his humor to the end, McMillan told me after reading my recent column on Davis. (Read it at NWI.com.)

That column attracted more responses than I expected, from Canada to Florida and from people who knew Davis personally to police officers who condemned the Invaders. At least two cops contacted me to criticize my glamorized depiction of Davis and his club members.

The Invaders and other bike gangs like it are criminal enterprises, one cop told me. You made them look like innocent saints.

I replied, I made them look like humans.

I understand their point of view. But Davis story transcended cops versus criminals or good versus evil. It straddled the line between how were supposed to feel about someone and how we actually feel when we learn a different version. His story also touched readers hearts despite Davis background or the notorious reputation of biker gangs.

I read your column daily. Some concern me, some make me chuckle, and some bring tears to my eyes, Connie Skozen wrote to me. Today  no words  just tears and more tears.

I thoroughly enjoyed your story. It brought a human compassion that is seldom heard in biker stories, wrote John Butcher, of British Columbia, Canada.

Other readers from Canada shared their experiences with biker clubs and gangs.

Media outlets up here look at all of us biker types as gangsters, wrote Bryan A., whos a member of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club. They are clubs, not gangs. There are some criminals, but most are law abiding and are totally against abusing women and kids.

John S., of Cedar Lake, wrote, I remember the Invaders well and never made eye contact.

In my previous column, I noted how I never made eye contact with Invaders when I was a kid growing up in Gary, where the club was founded in the 1960s.

Jerry, loved your story about Red Baron, one reader wrote. Is he the same Baron who was the door man at a strip club called The Little Red Mill in Gary?

I heard this from two other readers as well, so Im guessing it was Davis.

I remember him being a really cool guy, but at closing time hed whip out some sort of machine gun and hold it in the air, telling everyone to get out. Very effective method of clearing a room, the reader recalled.

Other people were more critical of Davis colorful life despite the poignancy of his death.

Really! What a (expletive) lifestyle to emulate for anyone, a reader said. No money at his age, no family life, and his legacy is what?

Well, thanks to that hospital social worker, Davis legacy now lives in the eye of the beholder regarding anyone who has read my columns on his life, his death and its meaning.

What prompted me to write about Davis again was a social media message I received from his granddaughter last month. So Ill end this column the same way I ended my first column.

I wanted to say thank you, she said. In a way, you gave my mom her dad back.
VALPARAISO  An 18-year-old Ohio man who was charged as a juvenile with calling in false threats to schools throughout Porter and Lake counties nearly wound up Wednesday with his first stay at an adult jail.

Prosecutors spent a good portion of the late morning arguing that Ryan Krajewski should have his bond revoked based on allegations of violating his pretrial release by having access to electronic devices that allow for access to the internet.

Porter County Deputy Prosecutor Mary Ryan presented evidence that Krajewski, who only recently turned 18, was found to have access at his Ohio home to a "smart TV" and AirPods, and was found to have a box for a virtual reality headset in his room, all of which could be used to access the internet.

What was missing from the evidence, as far as Porter Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Clymer was concerned, was proof that Krajewski actually used any of the devices or others to access the internet.

"It was a very close call," the judge said upon rejecting the call to revoke bond and send Krajewski to his first trip to adult jail while his case proceeds.

While dismissing some of the claims made by defense attorney John Vouga, Clymer did agree with his assessment that the requested penalty for jail time was "draconian."

Guilty plea in ongoing theft of scrap metal from US Steel The thefts in question came to light in August 2022 when an official at a Portage transport company reported the theft of a trailer loaded with $70,000 worth of scrap metal, police said.

But such a measure may be necessary if there is future evidence Krajewski does access the internet in violation of the court order, the judge said. The criminal allegations against him pose a real threat to others by tying up emergency services that may not be available to help others or which may wind up hurting or killing others during an unneeded emergency response.

"It's not you I'm concerned about," Clymer told Krajewski. "It's the public I'm concerned about."

Vouga accused prosecutors of "grasping at straws" in their attempts to link Krajewski to violating the terms of his release.

"This boy can't be going to jail," he argued.

Krajewski is charged in Porter County with seven felony counts of intimidation involving threats to commit terrorism, in addition to felony intimidation and false reporting charges in Lake County adult court and a juvenile case in Ohio, records show.

The area cases stem back to Jan. 26, 2023, when officials at Hobart High School received a voicemail from an individual who said he was going to "blow up" the school. Schools in Valparaiso, Portage and Wheeler had received similar calls earlier that day. All the buildings were locked down until police determined the threat was not credible.

"You have an hour until I come into your school and blow everything the (expletive) up!" the caller said in a voicemail. "And I'm going to shoot everybody who remains. Do you understand? I'm not having a (expletive) good day here. So you can enjoy that."

Valparaiso police quickly developed a possible suspect and shared the name with Hobart detectives, according to court documents.

A Hobart detective used specialized software to trace the call to a location in Medina, Ohio, and shared his information with Valparaiso detectives. They recruited help from the United States Secret Service, who executed a search warrant at Krajewski's home and collected multiple pieces of technology.

Detectives submitted an audio recording of the threatening calls made to both high schools to a forensic audio and video analyst who determined Krajewski was responsible for making the calls.

Clymer scheduled a status hearing in Krajewski's Porter County case for May 17.
Times Insider explains who we are and what we do and delivers behind-the-scenes insights into how our journalism comes together.

In New York, the recreational cannabis market hasnt quite taken off as planned.

Its been three years since New York legalized marijuana, and the state has awarded few licenses to applicants who want to open cannabis businesses. Today, illicit head shops far outnumber licensed dispensaries. So this month, Gov. Kathy Hochul ordered a review of the states Office of Cannabis Management, with the goal of speeding up its licensing bureaucracy.

Ashley Southall was covering criminal justice and policing in New York when she lobbied her editors to establish a beat for cannabis in 2022. Since then, she has observed, as she recently wrote, the fits and starts of a legal industry trying to take root in one of the worlds largest markets for cannabis.

In an interview, she explained how New York has fallen short of its goals and why the state hopes it can still build a successful market. This conversation has been edited.

Gov. Hochul said the rollout of legal cannabis in New York was a disaster. What, in her eyes, has been so disastrous?
Before the paths of Jason Volz and Carlton McPherson collided in a terrible moment on a Harlem subway platform on Monday, their lives had seemed to be heading in opposite directions.

Mr. McPherson had been hospitalized at least half a dozen times since last year for mental health treatment, according to someone who has seen some of his medical records. A neighbor in the Bronx said he sometimes slept in a hallway closet in his grandmothers building because she would not let him into her apartment. Last October, a man whom prosecutors believe to be Mr. McPherson  he had the same name and birth year  was charged with beating a Brooklyn homeless shelter employee with a cane.

Mr. Volz, 54, was recovering from addiction and had also endured homelessness, but had gotten sober two years ago and had just moved into a new apartment, his ex-wife said.

On Monday night, the police say, Mr. McPherson, 24, walked up to Mr. Volz on the uptown platform of the 125th Street station on Lexington Avenue and shoved him in front of an oncoming No. 4 train.
In a London auditorium, a work of art is being desecrated. Opening Night, John Cassavetess understatedly stylish 1977 movie about an actress struggling with midlife ennui, has been reimagined as a musical by the Belgian director Ivo van Hove, and the result is a travesty.

Its antiheroine, the Broadway superstar Myrtle Gordon (Sheridan Smith), has landed the lead role in a play about a middle-aged woman. But she isnt feeling it: Though she is about 40, she insists she cant relate. She stumbles through rehearsals, clashing with the director, Manny (Hadley Fraser), and the playwright, Sarah (Nicola Hughes), then goes rogue during previews, taking liberties with the script.

To compound matters, the actress develops a neurotic fixation on Nancy (Shira Haas), a 17-year-old fan killed in a car crash moments after getting Myrtles autograph. Convinced that Nancy is a cipher for her own lost youth, Myrtle intermittently hallucinates the dead girls ghost, and even converses with it. Myrtle is unraveling, but the show  somehow  must go on.
Several large automakers said on Tuesday that they were working to reroute shipments of cars because of the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

The Port of Baltimore plays an important role in the shipment of vehicles and handled more than 750,000 cars and trucks in 2023, according to the Maryland Port Administration. It ranks first in the United States for the volume of automobiles and light trucks it handles and for vessels that carry wheeled cargo, including farm and construction machinery, according to a statement by Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland last month.

Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. transportation secretary, said that the rerouting would affect the national supply chain. The path to normalcy will not be easy, he said. It will not be quick, and it will not be inexpensive.

Among the automakers that use the port are General Motors, Ford Motor, Stellantis, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and BMW.

Some automakers said they were planning to divert imports and exports of vehicles to other East Coast ports while they assessed how the collapse would affect their logistics.
A construction company employee who said he had labored alongside the six men missing after a Baltimore bridge collapse on Tuesday said that many of his co-workers were migrants working to support their relatives.

Were low-income families, said Jesus Campos, who has worked at the construction company, Brawner Builders, for about eight months. Our relatives are waiting for our help back in our home countries.

The men worked for Brawner, a contractor based in Baltimore County, a senior executive at the company said on Tuesday. The executive, Jeffrey Pritzker, and the Coast Guard said that all of the missing workers were presumed dead, given how long it had been since the collapse.

They were wonderful family people, Mr. Pritzker said, before describing the victims survivors. Spouses, children. He added, Its just a very, very bad day.

The company routinely does maintenance on bridges operated by the state. Its workers were repairing the bridges roadway when it was struck by the ship. Mr. Pritzker said that Brawners owner was distressed and had spent the early hours of Tuesday near the bridge hoping for a rescue, and had also since met with families of all of the missing workers.

Mr. Campos spent much of Tuesday afternoon at a gas station near where the police had blocked off the road to the Francis Scott Key Bridge. He wore a black sweatshirt bearing the construction companys name and milled about, waiting for news and speaking on the phone.
Wisconsin for the first time this year will begin requiring political advertisers to disclose the use of content generated by artificial intelligence or face financial penalties. But the battleground state, one that played a critical role in the last two elections, is not alone.

An increasing number of states have advanced A.I.-related legislation to combat attempts to mislead voters during the 2024 election, according to a new analysis by the Voting Rights Lab, a national voting rights organization.

Voting Rights Lab said it was tracking over 100 bills in 40 state legislatures, amid some high-profile cases of deep-fake video technology and computer-generated avatars and voices being used in political campaigns and advertisements.

One of the more glaring examples happened in New Hampshire, where a criminal investigation was opened after voters there received robocalls mimicking President Bidens voice and urging Democrats to not vote in the states primary in January.
Ships belonging to the company whose container vessel crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday have been cited in recent years for labor violations, which include underpaying ship crews and holding crew members onboard for months past their contracts, according to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

In 2021, the authority detained the Western Callao, another ship formerly owned by the company, the Singapore-based Grace Ocean Private Ltd., after it found that the management was in arrears paying 13 crew members and had kept them on the ship for more than 12 months, well beyond their nine-month contracts. In 2020, an inspection of the same ship in Australia found that eight sailors had been aboard it for more than 11 months.

Another ship owned by Grace Ocean, the Furness Southern Cross, had 10 seafarers aboard for more than 14 months. The infractions were serious and shameful violations of an international convention on maritime labor, Michael Drake, the executive director of operations for the authority, said at the time, in October 2021.

This type of behavior is unethical and in complete contravention to the Maritime Labor Convention, Mr. Drake said. The international conventions that protect seafarers rights are very clear.

Any factors about the crew of the Dali, the Grace-owned container ship that crashed into the Key Bridge, including fatigue, will likely be among the many items the National Transportation Safety Board examines as it looks for the cause or causes of the crash.

Grace Ocean owns 55 ships, according to Equasis, a public database of ship information. While global companies such as Maersk charter the vessels, the owners and the ship managers are generally responsible for managing the crew and maintaining the ships. The management company for the Dali, Synergy Marine, was not the company managing the two vessels cited by Australia.
Two former officials at a Massachusetts veterans home where at least 76 people died during a coronavirus outbreak in 2020 wont have to serve any jail time under a court order imposed by a state judge on Tuesday, according to the Massachusetts Attorney Generals Office.

The two  Bennett Walsh, the former superintendent at Holyoke Soldiers Home in Holyoke, Mass., and Dr. David Clinton, the former medical director there  were each indicted in September 2020 on five criminal counts of neglect, the attorney generals office said.

The charges were centered on a decision by the facility in March 2020 to consolidate two dementia units into one, which led to the mingling of residents who had contracted the coronavirus with others, the attorney generals office said when the indictment was announced.

The move to consolidate the units happened in the early days of the pandemic as many were just beginning to learn how the coronavirus spread. What followed was an outbreak that led to the deaths of at least 76 people at the facility.
A judge has ordered a former curator who the British Museum says stole hundreds of artifacts to return any gems or jewelry from the institution that are in his possession.

The museum claims that the former curator, Peter Higgs, who once ran the museums Greek and Roman antiquities department, stole or damaged over 1,800 artifacts from its collections and sold hundreds of those items on eBay, according to court documents.

Officials also want Mr. Higgs to explain the whereabouts of other artifacts that they say the former curator sold online. The court documents state that Mr. Higgs disputes the accusations against him.

At a High Court hearing in London, the presiding judge, Heather Williams, ordered Mr. Higgs to return any items within four weeks. Judge Williams also ordered PayPal, the online payments company, to disclose data relating to Mr. Higgss eBay accounts, including his transaction history.
Yes, Trump is mashing together the Bible and the Constitution like its a Pizza Hut-Taco Bell.  JORDAN KLEPPER

I know people will say that youre not supposed to mix the Bible and the Constitution, but what you have to understand is Trump has never read either of them.  JORDAN KLEPPER

If we step back and look at this, Trump getting into business with God can only mean one thing: God is going to end up bankrupt and serving a three-month prison sentence for lying under oath.  JORDAN KLEPPER

I mean, whats amazing about this is that Trump just made $5 billion on his new stock. Buddy, youre not supposed to be doing this embarrassing grifter [expletive] when youre that rich. Just start a private space company like a normal billionaire sociopath.  JORDAN KLEPPER
The growing gulf between Israel and the U.S.

Relations between Israel and the U.S. appeared to have sunk to a new low after the U.S. allowed the U.N. Security Council to pass a Gaza cease-fire resolution  and domestic political pressures in both nations are increasing the tension.

President Biden faces outrage from global allies and his political supporters about the civilian death toll in the war on Hamas and Israels restrictions on aid entering Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel faces sharp criticism from his far-right coalition partners, whom he needs to maintain his government, over any hesitation in the war against Hamas or in the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. One of those partners recently accused Biden of tacitly supporting Israels enemies, and at a campaign event yesterday Biden conceded that Gaza demonstrators have a point.

But despite the political signaling, officials said that U.S. policy on supporting Israel has not changed, and talks between Israels defense minister and the U.S. secretary of defense continued yesterday even after Netanyahu called off a delegation to Washington.
Russias stealthy online effort to derail Ukraine aid

Russia has intensified its spread of online disinformation in an effort to derail military funding in the U.S. and Europe for Ukraine, according to experts and intelligence assessments. The campaign largely uses harder-to-trace technologies to amplify arguments for isolationism ahead of the U.S. elections.

The stepped-up operations, run by aides to President Vladimir Putin and Russian military intelligence agencies, come at a critical moment in the debate in the U.S. over support for Ukraine. Russian operatives are laying the groundwork for what could be a stronger push to support candidates who oppose aiding Ukraine, or who call for pulling the U.S. away from NATO and other alliances, U.S. officials and independent researchers say.

Investigators say that firms working in the loosely linked Doppelganger network create fake versions of real news websites in the U.S., Israel, Germany and Japan, among other countries. U.S. officials note that their techniques make identifying  and calling out  Russian operations particularly difficult.

U.S. intelligence agencies do not believe that the Kremlin has begun its full-bore influence effort. Putin will probably shift at some point from the anti-Ukraine messaging to influence operations that more directly support the candidacy of Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee.
A settlement that could scramble the credit card business

A long-running fight between the credit card giants Visa and Mastercard and retailers in the United States is nearing an end, with the promise of lower fees for merchants.

But the proposed class-action settlement could have wider consequences, including for the lucrative business of high-end credit cards  and for retailers.

Whats in the settlement: Visa and Mastercard said on Tuesday that they had agreed to reduce swipe fees, costs associated with the use of a credit card, for about five years. Lawyers for merchants who had brought the case estimate that this could save about $30 billion worth of fees.

Perhaps more important, merchants will be able to raise their prices based on the kind of card. For example, buying groceries with a higher-fee card  typically a premium card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve  could become more expensive than paying with a lower-end one.
In a stunning turn, the Walt Disney Company has dropped its fight against Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida for control over $17 billion in planned development at the Disney World theme park complex near Orlando.

Disneys capitulation followed a legal setback. In January, a federal judge threw out a Disney lawsuit claiming that Mr. DeSantis and his allies had violated the First Amendment by taking over a special tax district that encompasses the companys 25,000-acre Florida resort, which employs roughly 75,000 people.

As part of a settlement announced on Wednesday, Disney agreed to pause an appeal of that ruling  but not drop it entirely  while negotiating a new comprehensive growth plan with tax district officials. Disney also agreed to stop fighting the tax district in state court, with both sides choosing to move forward in a spirit of cooperation, according to the six-page settlement.

We are pleased to put an end to all litigation pending in state court in Florida, Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World, said in a statement. He added that the agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement and would allow the company to continue to invest in the resort. As part of the settlement, the district agreed not to prohibit or impede long-term environmental permits granted to Disney.
The city of Berkeley, Calif., has agreed to repeal a landmark climate rule that would have banned natural gas hookups in new homes, throwing into question the fate of dozens of similar restrictions on gas in cities across the country.

Berkeleys gas ban, which was the first of its kind when it passed in 2019, had been challenged in court by the California Restaurant Association and was struck down last year by a three-judge panel on the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The city settled the lawsuit last week by agreeing to immediately halt enforcement of the rule and eventually repeal it altogether.

To comply with the Ninth Circuits ruling, we have ceased enforcement of the gas ban, Farimah Brown, the city attorney for Berkeley, said in an email. However, she added, Berkeley will continue to be a leader on climate action.

The decision could have widespread ripple effects. Over the past few years, more than 140 cities and local governments have followed Berkeleys lead in seeking to end the use of natural gas in new buildings in order to tackle climate change, including New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle. Many of those efforts are facing fierce resistance and legal challenges from the gas industry, restaurants and homebuilders.
A 41-year-old man was charged on Wednesday in connection with the fatal shooting in Queens of Police Officer Jonathan Diller two days ago.

The man, Lindy Jones, 41, was sitting in the drivers seat of a car that Officer Diller was inspecting when he was shot and killed. A man in the passenger seat, Guy Rivera, 34, fired the fatal shot through the passenger-side window, the authorities said. Mr. Rivera has not been charged.

Mr. Jones faces several gun charges, including possessing and defacing a weapon, according to the police. In a news release on Wednesday, Melinda Katz, the Queens district attorney, said that an illegal firearm had been recovered after a search of Mr. Joness car. Court records show that Mr. Jones pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to the charges brought against him in Queens Supreme Court. He also faces charges in criminal court.

His lawyer, Michael C. Anastasiou, could not be reached for comment.

According to Ms. Katz, if convicted, Mr. Jones faces up to 15 years in prison, in addition to the 15 years he faces for an unrelated gun charge from April 2023.
Five students were wounded in slashings at a Queens high school on Wednesday and were later arrested, the police said.

The slashings occurred during a fight that broke out around 12:43 p.m. at the school, New Dawn Charter High School II in Jamaica, according to law enforcement authorities. The five students were involved, as well as a security guard who tried to break it up. The police responded to the scene after a 911 call about an assault in progress.

All five students, who ranged in age from 16 to 18, and the guard were taken to a nearby hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries, including cuts to the fingers, shoulder and face, according to an internal police report. The five students were then taken into custody. It was not clear whether a weapon was recovered.

The dispute began in the schools cafeteria, according to the report, which described it as a large fight but said its cause was unknown.
12:54 | Lima, Mar. 27.

Vela's return was made official by Resolution No. 825-2024-MP-FN , issued by the Attorney General's Office, and published on Wednesday in El Peruano Official Gazette.
Later the police arrested the 24-year-old man they said had shoved the passenger, and they filed murder charges, saying that he appeared to have struggled with mental illness and had a history of violent acts. On Tuesday a 34-year-old man was in custody in the shooting in Queens and was being treated at Jamaica Hospital. The police said he had refused to get out of an illegally parked S.U.V. when the officer asked him to do so.

Adams lamented what he said were bad people doing bad things to good people, but he was adamant that the city had not spiraled out of control. I asked Emma G. Fitzsimmons, who as our City Hall bureau chief covers Adams daily, to discuss whether the two incidents were an inflection point in his efforts to reassure New Yorkers about safety.
The immediate impact of the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday was viscerally clear: In minutes, the Baltimore Harbor went from a humming logistics hub to a chaotic search and rescue operation. Two construction workers who had been fixing potholes on the bridge were pulled from the water, with six more missing and presumed dead.

As a native of Maryland, I grew up driving through the Baltimore Beltway with my family to see the Orioles play at Camden Yards, which is near Baltimores Inner Harbor. Seeing container ships sail through the port was one of my earliest memories of global shipping.

Last year the Port of Baltimore processed 1.1 million 20-foot containers worth of cargo, making it the ninth-busiest port, based on trade volume in the United States, and the most important port serving our nations capital. Its also the busiest U.S. port for car shipments, with more than 800,000 vehicles moving through its waters onto its docks and across its roads and railways in 2023.
If theres one thing Irish people know about President Biden, its that hes one of us. He says so all the time. Remember, he recalls his grandfather saying, the best drop of blood in you is Irish. He has a habit of quoting the poet Seamus Heaney and never lets an opportunity to recall his origins go to waste. His Secret Service code name, tellingly, is Celtic.

So when he visited Ireland last year, it felt like a homecoming. Today you are amongst friends because you are one of us, the speaker of Parliament announced before Mr. Biden addressed Irish lawmakers. If the trip took on the sheen of a wealthy Irish American searching for his roots, a constant of Irish tourism, it also cemented the bond between him and the country. When Mr. Biden referred to the Irish rugby team beating the Black and Tans  the notoriously brutal 1920s police force  as opposed to the All Blacks, as New Zealands rugby team is known, the gaffe became an instant, affectionate meme.

By the end of the trip, it was official: Mr. Biden loves Ireland, and Ireland loves Mr. Biden. But last October changed everything. After Hamass attacks, the Israeli bombardment of Gaza appalled the Irish. Mr. Biden, as the leader of Israels closest ally and chief military supplier, was seen to be enabling the devastation. That complicity has damaged both his reputation and his relationship with the Irish people, perhaps irreparably. His ancestral homeland no longer loves him back.

Ireland has long and emotional links to Palestinians, something the world has become steadily more aware of in recent months. The Irish government, for its part, unequivocally condemns the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks and repeatedly calls for the release of Israeli hostages. But it also urges restraint in Israels response, making multiple interventions at the European Union level and consistently calling for a cease-fire and a political solution to the carnage. Ireland knows all about cease-fires and peace building, after all.
In Davos, Switzerland, this January, a new icon of capitalist resentment took the stage. President Javier Milei of Argentina won a landslide victory in November on a platform of unapologetic libertarian economics and a campaign of ready-to-meme speeches and interviews. Already, his chain saw agenda has been hitting some predictable roadblocks at home  legislative resistance, pushback from unions and (sometimes violent) public protest. But he arrived in the Alps very much in character, looking like a future world leader hologram projected from a certain corner of billionaire-brain social media.

Today I am here to tell you that the Western world is in danger, Milei began. And it is in danger because those who are supposed to defend the values of the West are co-opted by a vision of the world that inexorably leads to socialism and thereby to poverty. He meant the belief that governments should try to help people.

Milei, a longtime economist, spoke in an academic monotone, but his analysis was vehement, almost a mirror image of the rhetoric Greta Thunberg used when announcing herself and her brand of climate alarm at Davos five years earlier. Spains El Pais called the speech the apocalypse according to Javier Milei, and for 23 minutes he gave a pretty millenarian account of the precarious state of the global free market system, as he saw it, which was losing its battle, he said, against the forces of collectivism, social justice, environmentalism and feminism, which he grouped as forces of inevitable immiseration. State power was the source of all the worlds problems, Milei said, all tax was coercion, and all market outcomes just. Those assembled at the World Economic Forum had been seduced by neo-Marxism, and the war on progress and achievement had been essentially started by the womens movement (exemplified by what he called the bloody abortion agenda).

Hyperbole is not rare in geopolitics, but even in a time of tumult, it is striking to see an outspoken anarcho-capitalist in the role of head of state; he is certainly the first avowed anarchist to be running a large modern government and may well be the first genuine libertarian to do so, too. In a gesture of pragmatism, Milei has taken to describing his ideology as minarchist, meaning that he would like to preserve only the defense and law-enforcement functions of the state. But in Argentina he has revved chain saws at rallies and once dressed as an ideological superhero of his own devising, General AnCap. And in positioning himself as a hands-off prophet at Davos, he was not afraid to look like a libertarian troll. Between neo-Keynesians and Nazis, he declared, there are no major differences. The same went for social democrats and fascists, progressives and communists, populists and globalists  all just different shades of statists aiming for total social control.
This month, the University of Texas, Austin, joined the wave of selective schools reversing Covid-era test-optional admissions policies, once again requiring applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores.

Many colleges have embraced the test-optional rule under the assumption that it bolsters equity and diversity, since higher scores are correlated with privilege. But it turns out that these policies harmed the teenagers they were supposed to help. Many low-income and minority applicants withheld scores that could have gotten them in, wrongly assuming that their scores were too low, according to an analysis by Dartmouth. More top universities are sure to join the reversal. This is a good thing.

I was one of the disadvantaged youths who are often failed by test-optional policies, striving to get into college while in foster care and homeless. We hear a lot about the efforts of these elite schools to attract diverse student bodies and about debates around the best way to assemble a class. What these conversations overlook is the hope these tests offer students who are in difficult situations.

For many of us, standardized tests provided our one shot to prove our potential, despite the obstacles in our lives or the untidy pasts we had. We found solace in the objectivity of a hard number and a process that  unlike many things in our lives  we could control. I will always feel tenderness toward the Scantron sheets that unlocked higher education and a better life.
On Nov. 5, North Carolina will determine whether a slate of Republican candidates who believe that the 2020 election was stolen, who dismiss Donald Trumps 88 felony charges and who are eager to be led by the most prodigious liar in the history of the presidency can win in a battleground state.

Pope McCorkle, a Democratic consultant and professor at Dukes Sanford School of Public Policy, argued in an email that the results of this years Republican primary elections on March 5 demonstrate that the North Carolina G.O.P. is now a MAGA party. With the gubernatorial nomination of Mark Robinson, the N.C. G.O.P. is clearly in the running for the most MAGA party in the nation.

As they are elsewhere, MAGA leaders in North Carolina are confrontational.

In February 2018, Robinson, the first Black lieutenant governor of the state, described on Facebook his view of survivors of school shootings who then publicly call for gun control. They are media prosti-tots who suffer from the liberal syndrome of rectal cranial inversion mixed with a healthy dose of just plain evil and stupid permeating your hallways.

In a March 2018 post on Facebook, Robinson declared: This foolishness about Hitler disarming MILLIONS of Jews and then marching them off to concentration camps is a bunch of hogwash.
Phoenixville, Pa. | $750,000

A renovated 1840 schoolhouse with three bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms and a guesthouse, on a 2.6-acre lot

This home, known as the Old Pickering Schoolhouse, still has much of its interior woodwork intact, along with its belfry (and the bell inside it). It is about a five-minute drive from Phoenixville High School and less than 10 minutes from the center of town, which has an early 20th-century movie theater, a brewery and walking paths along French Creek, a tributary of the nearby Schuylkill.

Driving to King of Prussia mall takes about 15 minutes. Center City Philadelphia is less than an hour away.

Size: 3,071 square feet

Price per square foot: $244

Indoors: The house is set back from the road, behind a long driveway and a wooden fence.

The front door opens into a foyer with checkerboard marble floors and a staircase to the second level.
Rosh Mahtani, the founder of the jewelry brand Alighieri, is celebrating the 10th anniversary of her company this year. Her handmade gold-plated pieces, inspired by Dantes Divine Comedy, made her a winner of the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design and a mainstay of luxury e-commerce vendors.

During Paris Fashion Week last month, buyers came to her showroom to select stock for the upcoming season, including MatchesFashion, a leading multibrand fashion retailer that is responsible for about half a million pounds, or $630,000, of Alighieris projected revenues. But there was a problem.

They had owed me 70,000 pounds [about $88,000] in unpaid invoices since October and had been asking for discounts on those bills, Ms. Mahtani said last week. It made her uneasy, even if such bargaining was increasingly commonplace for independent brands like hers. Still, she said, she wasnt quaking in her boots.

The team made a selection, and we talked about a capsule collection for the summer, she said. I dont think any of us had a sense of what would come next.
In recent weeks, American lawmakers have moved to ban the Chinese-owned app TikTok. President Biden reinforced his commitment to overcome Chinas rise in tech. And the Chinese government added chips from Intel and AMD to a blacklist of imports.

Now, as the tech and economic cold war between the United States and China accelerates, Silicon Valleys leaders are capitalizing on the strife with a lobbying push for their interests in another promising field of technology: artificial intelligence.

On May 1, more than 100 tech chiefs and investors, including Alex Karp, the head of the defense contractor Palantir, and Roelof Botha, the managing partner of the venture capital firm Sequoia Capital, will come to Washington for a daylong conference and private dinner focused on drumming up more hawkishness toward Chinas progress in A.I.
Within minutes of walking through an Israeli military checkpoint along Gazas central highway on Nov. 19, the Palestinian poet Mosab Abu Toha was asked to step out of the crowd. He put down his 3-year-old son, whom he was carrying, and sat in front of a military jeep.

Half an hour later, Mr. Abu Toha heard his name called. Then he was blindfolded and led away for interrogation.

I had no idea what was happening or how they could suddenly know my full legal name, said the 31-year-old, who added that he had no ties to the militant group Hamas and had been trying to leave Gaza for Egypt.

It turned out Mr. Abu Toha had walked into the range of cameras embedded with facial recognition technology, according to three Israeli intelligence officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity. After his face was scanned and he was identified, an artificial intelligence program found that the poet was on an Israeli list of wanted persons, they said.




this amount was attributable to the shipment of 38,760 tons to the United States, Belgium, Germany, Canada, Sweden, and the Netherlands, as the main destination markets, covering more than 65% of the total exported volume and generating an increase of 23% in the first two months, compared to the last four years. According to preliminary figures from the Peruvian National Superintendence of Tax Administration (Sunat) , as the main destination markets, covering more than 65% of the total exported volume and generating an increase of 23% in the first two months, compared to the last four years.





In January and February, the United States was the main market for Peruvian coffee, which acquired a total of 7,558 tons of the grain for a value of US$27.5 million.





Likewise, the case of Belgium stands out, with a participation of 19%. In the same period, it purchased 7,425 tons valued at US$27.6 million, which represents an increase of 3.9% in volume and of 2.9% in value compared to 2023.





2023 was a year of challenges for the Peruvian coffee industry, due to the increase in temperature and lack of rain, which contributed to the spread of yellow rust.





These conditions impacted the production and quality of coffee, mainly in the central jungle (Huanuco, Junin, and Ucayali regions), according to Midagri's Commodities Observatory.





Despite these difficulties, Peru managed to export 205,000 tons of coffee beans for a total value of US$827.3 million, with peak shipments of more than 32,000 tons per month during the last four months of the year.





In Peru, coffee is grown in San Martin, Cajamarca, Amazonas, Piura, Junin, Pasco, Huanuco, Ucayali, Apurimac, Cusco, Lambayeque, Ayacucho, and Puno regions; covering 427,000 hectares with the participation of around 223,000 families.





(END) NDP/MDV/RMB/MVB

Peruvian coffee exports exceeded US$132 million, from January to February this year, 66% higher than the figure in the same period last year (US$79.8 million), according to Sierra y Selva Exportadora, an institution attached to the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (Midagri) Publicado: 27/3/2024
When Rebecca Frecknall was a child, one of her favorite things to watch was a televised 1993 London revival of Cabaret, which her father had recorded on VHS tape. As the British theater director grew up, she hoped that one day she would stage a version of the musical, in which a writer falls in love with an exuberant and wayward cabaret performer in Weimar-era Germany.

In early March, in a Midtown rehearsal room, Frecknall, 37, was preparing to do just that. Her Cabaret, which opens in previews at the August Wilson Theater on April 1, is a transfer from Londons West End, where it opened in 2021 to critical acclaim. The show won seven Olivier Awards, the British equivalent to the Tonys.

I always wanted to direct Cabaret, Frecknall said later in an interview. I just never thought Id get the rights to it. Her opportunity came when Eddie Redmayne  a producer on the show who played the Emcee in London, and will reprise the part on Broadway  asked her in 2019 to be part of a bid for a revival.
The essence of Evelyn Dieckhaus is still there, captured in the pink Bible where she underlined the word covenant in silver ink, and in the beaming photos of her with her family.

It is there in her journal, recovered from the scene of the Covenant School mass shooting, where Evelyn, 9, had copied out by hand a New Testament verse about maintaining sympathy, tenderness and humility.

Her mother, Katy Dieckhaus, has since placed those pieces of her daughters memory into what she calls her little Ev bag, which she has carried with her as she takes her first steps into the intractable debate over gun control in Tennessee.

I just thought, O.K., Ev, lets go  lets go try something, Ms. Dieckhaus said this week, holding back tears as she recalled her first meeting with lawmakers. Lets go try to help people work together. Lets see what we can do.
Russia has intensified its online efforts to derail military funding for Ukraine in the United States and Europe, largely by using harder-to-trace technologies to amplify arguments for isolationism ahead of the U.S. elections, according to disinformation experts and intelligence assessments.

In recent days, intelligence agencies have warned that Russia has found better ways to hide its influence operations, and the Treasury Department issued sanctions last week against two Russian companies that it said supported the Kremlins campaign.

The stepped-up operations, run by aides to President Vladimir V. Putin and Russian military intelligence agencies, come at a critical moment in the debate in the United States over support for Ukraine in its war against Russia. While opposition to additional aid may have started without Russian influence, the Kremlin now sees an opportunity.

Russian operatives are laying the groundwork for what could be a stronger push to support candidates who oppose aiding Ukraine, or who call for pulling the United States back from NATO and other alliances, U.S. officials and independent researchers say.
Former President Donald J. Trump is planning to attend services this week honoring a New York City police officer who was killed in Queens during a traffic stop on Monday evening, three people familiar with his plans said.

Mr. Trump is expected to appear on Thursday at the wake for Officer Jonathan Diller, a three-year veteran of the New York Police Department who was killed after stopping a motorist in the Far Rockaway neighborhood just before 6 p.m. on Monday. He was 31 and the father of a 1-year-old.

Karoline Leavitt, the Trump campaigns national press secretary, would only say that Mr. Trump is moved by the invitation to join N.Y.P.D. Officer Jonathan Dillers family and colleagues as they deal with his senseless and tragic death.

Mr. Trumps expected appearance will come less than three weeks before the start of jury selection in his criminal trial in Manhattan. He has been indicted on charges that he falsified business records to cover up hush-money payments to a porn star who was prepared to discuss a past affair with him during the 2016 presidential campaign.
A federal appeals court late Tuesday ruled against Texas in its bitter clash with the federal government, deciding that a law allowing the state to arrest and deport migrants could not be implemented while the courts wrestled with the question of whether it is legal.

A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, which has a reputation for conservative rulings, sided in its 2-to-1 decision with lawyers for the Biden administration who have argued that the law violates the U.S. Constitution and decades of legal precedent.

The panels 50-page majority opinion left in place an injunction imposed last month by a lower court in Austin, which found that the federal government was likely to succeed in its arguments against the law. The opinion was written by the Fifth Circuits chief judge, Priscilla Richman, a nominee of President George W. Bush, and was joined by Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez, who was nominated to the bench by President Biden last year.

Judge Richman found that Texas law conflicted with federal law and with Supreme Court precedent, particularly a 2012 immigration case, Arizona v. United States.
Details have begun to emerge about some of the people who were missing after being plunged into the water when the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, divers worked through dangerous conditions searching for the bodies of the six missing men. Two were recovered from a submerged vehicle, and the other four are presumed dead, officials said.

But the search was ended later in the day, after officials concluded that the other bodies were encased in the wreckage. Two people were pulled from the river alive shortly after the collapse.

Heres what we know so far about the men, who were working as contractors doing overnight maintenance on the bridge:

The two whose bodies were recovered on Wednesday were Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, of Baltimore, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, of Dundalk, Md., authorities said.

Miguel Luna, in his 40s, from El Salvador, is married and has three children, said Gustavo Torres, the executive director of the nonprofit CASA, which provides services to immigrants in Baltimore. He said Mr. Luna had been living in Maryland for at least 19 years.

Maynor Yasir Suazo Sandoval, in his 30s, of Honduras, immigrated to the United States more than 17 years ago, according to Mr. Torres, and is married with two children. In a statement provided to The Times via CASA, Mr. Suazos brother, Carlos, described him as having a special talent for repairing and operating all kinds of machinery, and said that he dreamed of starting his own small business. He was always so full of joy, and brought so much humor to our family, Carlos Suazo said, noting that the family was planning to celebrate his brothers next birthday on April 27.

Jose Lopez, originally of Guatemala, had gone to Baltimore lead his family toward a better life in the United States, his brother, Jovani Lopez, told The Times on Thursday. Jovani Lopez said his brother was married with two children, a boy and a girl, in elementary school.

All but one of the eight men worked for Brawner Builders, a contractor based in Baltimore County, the company said. The men who went missing after the collapse were all immigrants from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, according to consular authorities and the nonprofit.

Kirsten Noyes contributed research.
When Elon Musk first set up Teslas factory in China, he appeared to have the upper hand.

He gained access to top leaders and secured policy changes that benefited Tesla. He also got workers accustomed to long hours and fewer protections, after clashing with U.S. regulators over labor conditions at his California plant. The Shanghai factory helped make Tesla the most valuable car company in the world and Mr. Musk ultrarich.

But Tesla is now struggling. Mr. Musk helped create his competition, Chinese E.V. makers that are taking market share and becoming a security concern for the United States and Europe.
The whirl of conspiracy theories that enveloped Catherine, Princess of Wales, before she disclosed her cancer diagnosis last week probably didnt need help from a foreign state. But researchers in Britain said Wednesday that a notorious Russian disinformation operation helped stir the pot.

Martin Innes, an expert on digital disinformation at Cardiff University in Wales, said he and his colleagues tracked 45 social media accounts that posted a spurious claim about Catherine to a Kremlin-linked disinformation network, which has previously spread divisive stories about Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelensky, as well as about Frances support for Ukraine.

As in those cases, Professor Innes said, the influence campaign appeared calculated to inflame divisions, deepen a sense of chaos in society, and erode trust in institutions  in this case, the British royal family and the news media.

It provokes an emotional reaction, he said. The story was already being framed in conspiracy terms, so you can appeal to those people. And people who support the royal family get angry.
At a memorial service this week outside the concert hall where Islamist extremists are suspected of carrying out a deadly terrorist attack, one of Russias most popular pro-Kremlin rappers warned right-wing and far-right groups that they must not incite ethnic hatred.

At a televised meeting about the attack, Russias top prosecutor, Igor Krasnov, pledged that his service was paying special attention to preventing interethnic and interfaith conflicts.

And when President Vladimir V. Putin made his first comments on the tragedy last weekend, he said he would not allow anyone to sow the poisonous seeds of hatred, panic and discord in our multiethnic society.

In the wake of the assault near Moscow that killed 139 people last Friday, there has been a recurring theme in the Kremlins response: a fear that the tragedy could spur ethnic strife inside Russia. While Mr. Putin and his security chiefs are accusing Ukraine  without evidence  of having helped organize the killing, the fact that the four detained suspects in the attack are from the predominantly Muslim Central Asian country of Tajikistan is stoking anti-migrant rhetoric online.
Security forces clashed with large crowds of pro-Palestinian protesters near Israels embassy in the Jordanian capital on Tuesday night, video recorded by The Associated Press and Reuters showed.

It was the third consecutive day that demonstrations in support of Palestinians under Israeli bombardment in Gaza have taken place near the embassy in Amman, Jordans capital.

The protesters carried Palestinian flags and marched toward the embassy, chanting betrayal in Arabic and calling on Jordans government to cancel its agreements with Israel.

Footage showed the security forces dispersing the crowds and arresting protesters.

Israel and Jordan maintain a crucial regional alliance, and the kingdom is the custodian of the Aqsa compound in Jerusalem, a key holy site that is often a source of disputes and conflict between Israelis and Palestinians.

But more than 2.3 million registered Palestinian refugees live in Jordan  a population slightly larger than that of the Gaza Strip. And Jordans leaders have been increasingly critical of Israel since the war in Gaza began. Amid a dire humanitarian crisis in the enclave, Jordan began airdropping aid in November. It has completed more than a dozen missions since.
? La presidenta de la republica, Dina Boluarte, sostuvo una segunda reunion con gremios empresariales y sindicatos de trabajadores, en la que se adoptaron importantes acuerdos para hacer frente a la inseguridad ciudadana.



? El primero de ellos fue incorporar a los pequenos, pic.twitter.com/a5XA9pfRPF
Can Xeroxs PARC, a Silicon Valley Icon, Find New Life with SRI?

Two research labs known for some of the tech industrys most important innovations have merged in hopes of recapturing their glory days.

It is one of Silicon Valleys enduring legends.

In 1979, a 24-year old Steve Jobs was permitted to visit Xeroxs Palo Alto Research Center (PARC) to view a demonstration of an experimental personal computer called the Alto. Mr. Jobs took away a handful of ideas that would transform the computing world when they became the heart of Apples Lisa and Macintosh computers.

Jobs was shown the Altos graphical user interface, later saying of the experience, it was obvious to me that all computers would work like this some day. SRI

Four decades later, PARC has become a footnote in the nations technology heartland, even as Silicon Valleys influence has ballooned. Last April, Xerox quietly donated the lab to SRI International, an independent research laboratory that is a nonprofit organization with an equally storied history that has also fallen from its peak of influence. (The organization shortened its name this year to SRI. It used to be the Stanford Research Institute and was separated from the university in 1970. It changed its name to SRI International in 1977.)

PARC's inventions defined the personal computing revolution, from laser printing to ethernet.

1969 Xerox opens the Palo Alto Research Center as an R&D division on the edge of Stanfords campus. The mandate of the laboratory is to create the office of the future. SRI, via Computer History Museum 1972 Among the first innovations to come out of PARC is a complete system for laser printing, pictured here in a prototype printer model, the Xerox Dover. 1973 PARC creates the Xerox Alto, the first modern personal computer. The Alto features the first graphical user interface, making it possible to control the system by pointing and clicking on menus rather than typing cumbersome commands. 1974 A key part of PARC office of the future vision is a network to tie office systems together. The Ethernet standard is developed at PARC and gradually wins wide industry adoption.

In January, SRI began to disclose its plans for PARC, describing a combined nonprofit research organization, called the Future Concepts division, intent on reclaiming some of the original wizardry that was created when the Xerox Corporation set out to build a basic research laboratory to invent the office of the future in 1970.

The PARC laboratory, set in the foothills just south of Stanford, is now largely empty, hosting less than 100 researchers, far from a peak of almost 400. For those who remember its glory days, however, it is a reminder of the research done by a diverse group of scientists and engineers who crossed disciplines and collaborated in a spirit similar to other powerful corporate research centers of that era, such as AT&Ts Bell Laboratories and IBMs Thomas J. Watson Research Center.

PARC has become a footnote in the nations technology heartland, even as Silicon Valleys influence has ballooned.

Its still magical, said Eric Schmidt, Googles former chief executive and executive chairman, who began his career at PARC as a computer scientist and a member of the research team. He remembers, an amazing cafeteria, the most incredible view from the roof deck of the Bay Area and very large labs on the ground floor that they once used for physics and semiconductor work.

Today, however, in an era of tightening corporate budgets and more targeted government spending, basic research largely happens at universities. Silicon Valley has adopted a venture capital-based research funding model focused on quickly bringing products to market  often failing just as promptly.

For reasons that range from the more competitive world of computing research to the fact that the communities that surround the laboratory are now among the most expensive places to live in the world, there are many skeptics about the idea of a rejuvenated PARC. And in a technology region now dominated by venture-funded start-ups, some argue that basic research labs like PARC and SRI are passe.

PARC is dead, said Bernardo Huberman, a physicist who was a PARC researcher during the 1970s and 1980s and who now heads a research group at CableLabs, a development organization sponsored by the cable television industry. He added that the value system that made people feel like they were part of something intellectually by working at PARC has disappeared.

Now the culture is more mercenary and focused on money rather than knowledge for its own sake, Mr. Huberman said.

PARC and SRI share a complicated history. During Silicon Valleys formative years in the 1960s and 70s, SRI, which is in neighboring Menlo Park, and PARC invented defining concepts that even today continue to shape the computer industry, including advanced chip design, personal computing, laser printing, office networking and what is described as the Internet of Things.

Some of PARCs computing innovations have their roots in prior research work done in the SRI lab of Douglas Engelbart, the computer scientist who invented the computer mouse and hypertext, the forerunner to the World Wide Web.

Across its 78-year history, SRIs inventions have evolved from early computer-based check processing systems to the initial version of Siri.

1950 Bank of America contracts with SRI to design a computer-based system to automate the processing of checks. By 1966, the Electronic Recording Machine, Accounting can process 750 million checks a year. 1966 A robot called Shakey moves about its environment. A variety of innovations will come from it, including advances in computer vision, voice recognition and an algorithm that would become the basis for modern navigation and mapping programs. SRI 1968 The computer scientist Douglas Engelbart does a live demonstration of the oN-Line system his team at SRI has been developing, showcasing the computer mouse and hypertext  later to become the foundational concept underlying the World Wide Web. SRI 1969 Two young programmers, Bill Duvall at SRI in Menlo Park and Charley Kline at UCLA in Los Angeles, test remotely connecting to a computer via a Pentagon-funded experimental computer network known as ARPAnet. 2003 Siri, which will eventually be turned into a commercial product by Apple, begins as part of a Pentagon-funded SRI artificial intelligence research effort known as CALO, which stands for Cognitive Assistant That Learns and Organizes.

David Parekh, SRIs chief executive, said that although PARC could not compete directly for talent because of the high salaries now routinely offered by tech giants, it would still be possible to attract scientists and engineers interested in the research freedom that the laboratory would provide. The new, combined lab will have about 1,000 researchers.

Mr. Parekh, who is a mechanical engineer whose background is in the aerospace industry and who became SRIs chief executive in 2021, said PARC would be able to attract both early-career researchers as well as mid-career and senior researchers.

He acknowledged that while the reinvented PARC would not have a single invent the office of the future style-vision of the original laboratory, it would attempt to make advances in a variety of fields ranging from material science inventions to offset the effects of climate change to quantum computing.

PARC is credited with the original graphical computing breakthrough known as the WIMP interface, an acronym for Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointer, that describes a style of human-computer interaction that was popularized by Macintosh and Windows personal computers.

Mr. Parekh said that the stage was now set for a second leap forward in the way humans interacted with computers. That was foreshadowed in basic research done at SRI in the 2000s that led to the commercial spinoff of SIRI, a speech assistant that Mr. Jobs placed at the heart of the iPhone just before his death in 2011.

Mr. Parekh said he believed that the new research center could make major contributions in research on more trustworthy and explainable artificial intelligence systems. SRI has been a pioneer in A.I. research since the 1960s, and Mr. Parekh said that combining todays neural net technologies with the traditional symbolic A.I. work would pave the way for powerful systems that have the ability to reason.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, he said, is now funding PARCs research on futuristic human-machine collaboration, intended to make it possible for people and machines to plan and work together on tasks in both digital and physical worlds.

The challenge, said Curtis Carlson, a physicist who was SRIs chief executive from 1998 to 2014, will be to create a culture that is able to make the connection between invention and innovation, which he described as invention delivered into the marketplace with a viable business model.

PARCs inventiveness has always been a source of contention. Xerox was accused of fumbling the future, by not effectively commercializing the technology it invented to become a major player in the computer industry. Mr. Jobs took away the technology that still defines Apples products, and Charles Simonyi, a young PARC software designer who left to work for Microsoft, took the ideas that would become the heart of both Office and Windows.

Xerox executives had always responded that though they did not successfully compete in the computer market, they got a huge return on their investment by commercializing the laser printer technology PARC invented.

But many researchers who were at PARCs halcyon early days said that its strength was that their research was unconstrained by the need to create a specific product  a notion that seems hard to imagine in todays product-oriented Silicon Valley.

In the 1970s, PARC was originally thought of as hippie-ville, said Jan Vandenbrande, a former Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency project manager who is now head of research at PARC. That culture, he said, has changed and evolved since then, but has retained a spirit of how do you make a difference in the world? and how do you democratize certain technologies?

Head of Research Jan Vandenbrande wears a Halo vision device at the Palo Alto Research Center.

Johan De Kleer, a scientist who spent almost four decades at PARC before leaving recently to found an A.I. software company, said that PARC could be revived only if Mr. Parekh could find a way to build some slack into the system by finding money to support open-ended research projects.

SRI may have found that slack. The research laboratory is located in Menlo Park, Calif., in walking distance to the San Francisco to San Jose commuter rail line on 63 of Silicon Valleys most valuable acres.

Mr. Parekh is now planning to build a modern research campus and residential community with new SRI buildings and space to attract other high-tech companies. The developer will share revenue from the project with SRI.

This is our annuity for the future for investing in research, Mr. Parekh said.
Lifte is a Japanese clothing brand that specializes in hospital patient gowns that are not only comfortable to wear but also look stylish.

Fashion is probably the last thing on most peoples minds when they need to spend time in a hospital, but Japanese clothing brand Lifte claims that dressing well is one important way to relieve stress as a hospital patient. You may not have your health, but thats no reason not to dress nice. Lifte actually specializes in stylish, high-quality hospital gowns that not only look good on the wearer but are also considerably more comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

Photo: Lifte

No one likes being sick, so why make things even worse with ordinary hospital gowns? Most of the time, they dont even fit well, and if they do, the fabric is so stiff that it makes them uncomfortable to wear. Thats where Lifte comes in. A joint venture between Classico, a medical supply company, and Elan, a company that provides hospital suit services, Lifte is a clothing brand catering exclusively to hospital patients.

Not only are Lifte gowns designed with fashion in mind, but they are also made from a special fabric that maintains its softness for longer, making the clothes more comfortable to wear. After more than 80 wash cycles with strong detergents, Lifte gowns still maintain their softness. Lifte gowns come in two types  classic and bathrobe  and four colors: pink rice, dusk blue, gray and wine red.

Photo: Lifte

Lifte strives to achieve the ultimate in design and aesthetics when it comes to hospital gowns. The brands ultimate goal is to make wearers less depressed about their situation by providing them with stylish, high-quality garments.

No word on pricing, but considering that Lifte is a premium alternative to standard hospital gowns, I think you can expect a spicy price tag.

Photo: Lifte
CIIC PR launches a partnership with Mondrian Mexico City Condesa. In addition to working to effectively position the property in the U.S. and Mexican markets, CIIC will manage the Mondrian Mexico City Condesa's social media prescnce. The recently renovated hotel is located between Mexico Citys. La Roma and La Condesa neighborhoods. This partnership marks a significant milestone for our Miami office as we continue to expand our footprint in Mexico. Together, we embark on a journey to showcase Mondrians essence to US and domestic audiences with exciting partnerships, strategic media relations, and a robust social media program," said CIIC PR vice president Amy Sedeno.

IMAGINE PR is named the public relations representative for W Algarve, a luxury hotel located in the coastal town of Albufeira in Southern Portugal. The agency will be providing integrated public relations and brand partnerships, among other services. Specific areas include: strategic communications counsel, media relations and influencer connections, as well as media familiarization trips. Home to 134 hotel rooms and suites plus 83 residences, W Algarve also boasts six unique dining experiences and wellness services including the AWAY Spa, Techno Gym and Fuel Bar.

Walt & Company, a tech PR and social media agency, is selected as PR agency of record by maps and location platform Mapbox. The agency will operate as an extension of the Mapbox marketing team, developing and implementing strategic communications to drive brand recognition, manage technology launches and ongoing company news announcements, and drive thought leadership and customer/partner success initiatives. Mapbox solutions are used by companies such as BMW and Toyota in the automotive space, AccuWeather and The Weather Company in the weather monitoring space and Instacart in the on-demand logistics market. We brought Walt & Company onboard as a strategic partner to help us share our story and increase our brand value across the many markets that we serve, said Mapbox global head of marketing and communications Holly Nicola.
THE stretch of the Tullamore to Kilbeggan road at Durrow, which has been declared a death trap by concerned locals, will have its speed limit lowered from 100kph to 80kph.

The move has been reluctantly accepted by councillors who had sought a reduction to 60kph where the N52 meets the Durrow High Road.

The recommendation for the introduction of a 60kph zone either side of the junction was rejected by the national authority, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).

Angry councillors on Monday condemned what was described by Cllr Neil Feighery as a TII veto over the views of public representatives on the ground.

A meeting of Offaly County Council saw the elected members adopt a new traffic speeding regime for the county, the first change in the rules since 2017.

Director of services Tom Shanahan told the councillors that statutory guidelines set by the Department of Transport had to be complied with in any review of the speed limit bye-laws.

The decisions on new limits follow a period of public consultation and contact with An Garda Siochana.

While the gardai had no comment on proposed changes, submissions were received from interested parties in the Tullamore Municipal District.

Along with the refusal of the TII to sanction the change in Durrow, lower limits at Blueball and Woodlands, Birr were also turned down.

However the TII did approve a reduction from 80kph to 60kph on one side of Ferbane and a new 80kph zone north of the town for one kilometre.

The entire length of the road from Riverstown to Birr is being reduced to a 60kph speed limit.

Mr Shanahan said proposals for new limits in Ballydaly, Killina and Killoughy Cross would not be implemented because the guidelines viewed the roads as being in rural areas.

We have proposals for Killoughy Cross to improve safety there outside of the speed limit review, said Mr Shanahan.

No changes are being made to limits in Killurin and Mucklagh, despite submissions seeking them, but the limit between Tubber and Moate will be 80kph.

Cllr Tony McCormack, Fianna Fail, said a submission had been made by a Cappincur resident which reflected concerns about the huge problem there, especially around the oratory, and HGVs, buses and cars were increasingly using the road to avoid the recommended main road through the Meelaghans.

The speed of the traffic coming in that road is horrendous, said Cllr McCormack.

Mr Shanahan told him the road through Cappincur was deemed rural so was excluded from consideration of a speed limit review.

Cllr Neil Feighery, Fine Gael, said while he appreciated the work which will be done at Killoughy Cross he and others were disappointed with the veto of the TII.

In Durrow, he said, traffic sometimes had to wait six minutes to exit onto the main road and he recalled the public concern and a meeting late last year there.

I've a feeling the 80k limit mightn't just cut the mustard here, said Cllr Feighery. TII seem to be very reluctant to agree to any changes that come to us public representatives, the people that are on the ground.

The councillor was also disappointed that a slight extension for the 60kph zone at Blueball had not been approved and repeated a call for the TII to meet the council.

Cllr Feighery also questioned the national review of speed limits which is currently being considered by the Oireachtas which he said will reduce limits dramatically across the country and bring many roads down from 80kph to 60kph.

Cllr John Carroll, Independent, said he was happy to see the limit on the Birr-Riverstown road reduced but said he saw no need for the 30kph signs in very small housing estates, like Cypress Grove with three houses.

Putting up signs for 50 metres is a waste of resources said Cllr Carroll who added that he had never heard of prosecutions for speeding in estates but it's not strangers doing it.

Cllr Sean O'Brien, Independent, agreed with Cllr Feighery on national speed limit legislation and said it would supersede what the councillors were doing.

Under these laws the speed on the N52 at Durrow will be reduced to 80kph anyway. It's somewhat taking away our local powers, it's just another erosion, said Cllr O'Brien.

Another Independent member, Cllr John Leahy said speeding was always a concern but it's up to people to take personal responsibility.

When we want it enforced we don't really want it enforced, said Cllr Leahy, adding that work done under the Town and Village Renewal Schemes and Active Travel had narrowed some villages TVR and Active Travel schemes have narrowed the villages and reduced speeding.

Cllr Declan Harvey, Fianna Fail, said the wait for some drivers coming out of Durrow could be 10 minutes and he echoed the complaints about the TII.

They didn't listen to us when we asked for 60, Cllr Harvey remarked, adding that speeding was also taking place on straight roads in the town of Tullamore like those at Park Avenue and Puttaghaun. He called for speed ramps to be installed.

READ:

https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/home/1364360/packed-public-meeting-hears-calls-for-replacement-of-offaly-s-death-trap-road.html

Barry Lennon, senior engineer for roads, told the meeting that while the Durrow project was a priority, a planning application will be required and it was hoped to progress that by the end of the year.

Cllr Liam Quinn, Fine Gael, suggested that normal permanent speed limit signs at primary schools would be more effective than temporary ones and also singled out Ballyfore Cross as a blackspot, suggesting the road be narrowed as had been done in Mountlucas. Cllr Noel Cribbin agreed, saying there could sometimes be up to 40 kids at Ballyfore Cross.

Mr Shanahan told the councillors that the Oireachtas had not yet enacted the 80kph speed limits and added that the council was required to put up signs in all places with a 30kph limit.

Referring to ramps, he indicated the preference for raised tables such as those in the centre of Tullamore.

There will be road markings and improved signage at Killoughy Cross, he said, adding that some work had been done in Ballyfore and he would wait to see how it bedded in.

Cllr John Clendennen, Fine Gael, sought statistics on speed van locations, regularity and detection rates.

Cllr Clendennen said of speeding: It's a social problem and we're trying to find an engineering solution.
There is bad news on the weather front for Irish holidaymakers heading to Spain or Portugal for their Easter holidays.

Most schools are off next week as we lead in to the Easter Bank Holiday and many families take the opportunity to escape the Irish weather for a bit of sun abroad.

That may not work out for some heading to Spain or Portugal, according to weather expert Alan O'Reilly from Carlow Weather.

He posted a rather wet-looking weather model for both countries with the ominous caption: "Heading to Spain or Portugal this week in search of some sun and a break from the rain? Im afraid it is looking as wet if not wetter for many parts of both."

The models show some widespread rain in both countries while other Carlow Weather followers posted pictures from the continent.

One man shared a very overcast picture from Portugal where he is attending the Moto GP event.

He described it as "incredibly muggy and warm but since Friday a Calima sort of cloud as been around. Seen local news warning of a lot of rain this week. Thankfully I go home tonight."
A woman and two girls have died following a crash on the N17 in Co Mayo.

The collision involving a lorry and a car occurred in the Castlegar area outside of Claremorris.

The woman driving the car and two girls who were passengers in the vehicle were fatally injured.

Their bodies were taken to Mayo University Hospital for post-mortem examinations.

No other injuries were reported.

The road was closed for a forensic investigation and gardai are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Investigators have also appealed to the public to not share images of the crash scene.

A local councillor said the whole county was in shock following the crash, as well as deaths in a house fire in the nearby town of Swinford.

Richard Finn said: The whole county is in shock. Its a sad day for Claremorris and of course Swinford. Mayo had a bad run-in today.

Your heart goes out to everybody involved and we want to offer our condolences to everybody involved and to the families, extended families and friends.
RTE journalist Barry O'Kelly was confronted by far-right protesters while documenting an anti-migrant demonstration in Dublin.

Barry, who was filmed by demonstrators remained cool while being told "he was reporting for the government."

The reporter, who works for RTE Investigates, has been praised "for calmness, courage and dignity in responding to people who harassed a very good journalist at work," said former RTE broadcaster Cathal Mac Coille in a post on X (formerly Twitter).



The man leading "the debate", which has been shared on social media, was Philip Dwyer. On the footage, he can be heard saying: "RTE Investigates likes to slander these innocent Irish people who are out there with concerns for their communities and can't walk around safely. Do you report on that?"

Barry O'Kelly calmmy replies: "I am not the story I am only here to report on it."

Phillip then goes on to say: "You are writing this story for the government and you don't question it."

The journalist, who kept his calm during the exchange, told the demonstrators what they were doing was "attributing immigrants to crimes," while one of the demonstrators, in reference to Barry O'Kelly, expressed: "let the man hang himself."

Social media users, including several high-profile journalists, have defended Barry O'Kelly in comments posted on the video which was shared to X.

One user said: " Patience of a saint indeed. Well done Barry, I hope you are ok after that. Somewhat intimidating."




After the meeting held with the Bloque Magisterial de Concertacion Nacional (Magisterial Bloc of National Concertation) parliamentary group, the Cabinet chief indicated that dialogue has been "open and frank."





"They have expressed their concerns and worries to us and, naturally, we have taken due note of them; we will take special care to address them, to the extent of our possibilities, of course," he told the press.





Likewise, Adrianzen pointed out that the message that they will deliver in the Congress plenary session scheduled for April 3, the day on which the Cabinet will go to the Parliament to seek the vote of confidence, will include precise details containing information and responding to parliamentarians' concerns.





During a dialogue with members of the Magisterial Bloc bench, the Prime Minister thanked them for their willingness to listen to the main guidelines of the Government's general policy, as well as for economic recovery and citizen security.





Similarly, he stressed the need to ensure the success of the economic recovery, in order to continue improving the Education sector comprehensively.





Avanza Pais bench at the headquarters of the Earlier today, the head of the Ministerial Cabinet met with thebench at the headquarters of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers (PCM) , as part of the rounds of dialogue.





In the afternoon, he did the same with Alianza para el Progreso (Alliance for Progress) and Somos Peru (We are Peru) benches.





(END) MCA/JCR/RMB
The sailfish stands out as the fastest fish in the world, a title it proudly holds thanks to its remarkable adaptations and evolutionary prowess. In fact, the sailfish can reach top speeds of 68 mph (110 km/h).

Inhabiting the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific oceans, the sailfish features a streamlined shape that epitomizes hydrodynamic efficiency. Its powerful muscles that contract rapidly, propelling it through the water at velocities that top out during short periods of high-speed pursuit.

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Fins Fit for Speedy Evasion

What really sets the species apart from other fish are its numerous fins arrayed with precision along its sleek body. The sail-like dorsal fin, from which it derives its name, along with dorsal fins projecting from the back and pectoral fins on the sides, play a crucial role in maneuverability and stability.

Meanwhile, the tail fin and anal fins provide the forward propulsion needed to reach top speeds.

Beneath its sleek exterior, bony spines add to its structural integrity, allowing for bursts of speed that captivate and intrigue marine biologists and enthusiasts alike.

These aquatic speedsters have an alternate use for their sail-like dorsal fin. While it helps them cut through water with minimal resistance, they also sometimes raise it to intimidate predators. Nature loves a multi-tool.
" " A greater sac-winged bat pup babbling in its day roost. Michael Stifter (CC BY-ND)

"Mamama," "dadada," "bababa"  parents usually welcome with enthusiasm the sounds of a baby's babble. Babbling is the first milestone when learning to speak. All typically developing infants babble, no matter which language they're learning.

Speech, the oral output of language, requires precise control over the lips, tongue and jaw to produce one of the basic speech subunits: the syllable, like "ba," "da," "ma." Babbling is characterized by universal features  for example, repetition of syllables and use of rhythm. It lets an infant practice and playfully learn how to control their vocal apparatus to correctly produce the desired syllables.

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More than anything else, language defines human nature. But its evolutionary origins have puzzled scientists for decades. Investigating the biological foundations of language across species  as I do in bats  is a promising way to gain insights into key features of human language.

I'm a behavioral biologist who has spent many months of 10-hour days sitting in front of bat colonies in Panama and Costa Rica recording the animals' vocalizations. My colleagues and I have found striking parallels between the babbling produced by these bat pups and that by human infants. Identifying a mammal that shares similar brain structure with human beings and is also capable of vocal imitation may help us understand the cognitive and neuromolecular foundations of vocal learning.
YEREVAN, MARCH 27, ARMENPRESS: Launching an EU-Armenia dialogue on visa liberalisation would be an important step to deepening relations.



This is mentioned in the report by the Friends of Armenia Network, a high-level group launched in 2023 by former Danish Prime Minister and NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen.



According to the co-authors of the report, the visa liberalization will bring significant change to the people of Armenia, as increased people-to-people contacts are important.



According to the report, the EU should indicate that it is ready to offer Armenia candidate status,which would be an important signal.



It is important to ensure that the Armenian state continues its mission. It is essential to ensure that the Armenian state continues to deliver for the Armenian people in terms of economic growth, healthcare, the rule of law, human rights, and democracy.



The EU aid should focus on the changes that people can see and feel, reads the report.
Sri Lanka and China sign nine new agreements

Posted by Editor on March 27, 2024 - 9:06 am

The signing of nine new agreements between China and Sri Lanka took place on Tuesday (March 26) under the patronage of Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang and Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.

The Prime Minister paid floral tributes to the martyred war heroes at the Monument to the Peoples Heroes in Tiananmen Square.

After receiving the guard of honour from the Chinese military, bilateral discussions commenced.

Later, during the bilateral talks held in the Great Hall in Beijing, more attention was given to increasing overall cooperation in the social, cultural, educational, and agricultural sectors, in addition to economic cooperation.

The Prime Ministers of the two countries confirmed that a new chapter in the long-term friendship and cooperation between Sri Lanka and China would begin through the nine memoranda of understanding signed between the two countries.

Secretary to the Prime Minister Anura Dissanayake signed the agreements on behalf of Sri Lanka, and the secretaries of nine ministries signed on behalf of China.

A group including Ministers of the Peoples Republic of China, Sri Lankan State Ministers Shehan Semasinghe and Ashoka Priyantha, and MP Yadamini Gunawardena participated in this event.
YEREVAN, MARCH 27, ARMENPRESS. The Gardman-Shirvan-Nakhijevan Pan-Armenian Union has referred to Toivo Klaars statement, the European Union Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia, regarding his condemnation of threats made against Armenia by Azerbaijani media.

The statement issued by the Union reads as follows:



"Toivo Klaar, the representative of the European Union Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia, has deemed the threats against Armenia in the Azerbaijani media unacceptable. State-ordered anti-Armenian speech and threats of blackmail by the government-controlled media in that country, which is a leader in the matter of restricting freedom of speech and expression, are unfortunately not new occurrences.

The Azerbaijani media consistently "echoes" the baseless demands of the Azerbaijani leadership, amplifying threatening rhetoric and providing a distorted "legal-historical" justification. In this way, on the one hand, Azerbaijan artificially obstructs the process of regional settlement, and on the other hand, shifts the 'blame' for this obstruction onto Armenia." This is one of the indicators of Azerbaijani destructiveness, but not the last one, on which we consider it necessary to draw the attention of Toivo Klaar.

It is not only threats that are generated by the Azerbaijani media, but also the clear and unwavering Armenophobia, which has been bearing its bitter fruits for several decades. Azerbaijani society, from kindergarten to various levels of education and upbringing, is indoctrinated with immeasurable hatred against Armenia and Armenians, as evidenced by the glorification and worship of individuals like Ramil Safarov and Kamil Zeynalli, who have committed anti-human acts, in the public.

The Azerbaijani media is stubbornly silent about the massacres and atrocities committed by Azerbaijan in Sumgait in 1988, Baku in 1990, Maragha in 1992, and other Armenian and Armenian-populated places, the complete destruction of the Jugha Armenian cemetery and Armenian spiritual-national heritage. These acts are deemed criminal against humanity. Instead, the media glorifies the demolition of the Nagorno-Karabakh National Assembly building as a place for planning "crimes".

While the buildings of all Azerbaijani state departments, where war crimes against Armenians were planned at different times should be demolished and condemned.

The Gardman-Shirvan-Nakhchivan Pan-Armenian Union demands that delegates take active steps in investigating and condemning the anti-Armenian propaganda spread by the Azerbaijani media, as well as the speeches of hatred and enmity against Armenia and Armenians.
Yggdrasil Gaming faces a significant fine for breaching Sweden's strict gaming laws, spotlighting regulatory compliance's critical role in the iGaming industry.

Yggdrasil Gaming, a renowned name in the gaming software industry, faces a SEK300,000 fine from Sweden's Spelinspektionen for providing software to an unlicensed operator within Sweden. This enforcement underscores the strict regulatory landscape in Sweden and signals a warning to all license holders.

In-depth Investigation Leads to Sanctions

License and Breach: Yggdrasil was granted a software license by Spelinspektionen on 22 March 2023, enabling the company to develop, supply, and install online gaming software in Sweden until 20 June 2028. However, an investigation initiated on 16 January 2024 revealed Yggdrasil's software was being utilized by an unlicensed entity, contravening Swedens stringent Gambling Act.

Regulatory Response: Upon discovering the infraction, Yggdrasil acted swiftly, resolving the issue by 23 January 2024. The company admitted the breach resulted from a contractual oversight with a retailer and assured it had ceased all dealings with unlicensed parties. Spelinspektionen recognized Yggdrasils corrective actions but emphasized that such compliance was a fundamental expectation for all licensees.

Analyzing the Gravity of the Violation

Spelinspektionen deliberated on the nature of the offense, recognizing Yggdrasil's prompt remedial steps yet underlining the violation's severity. The breach's seriousness was deemed too significant to overlook, leading to the decision to impose a warning alongside the monetary penalty.

The Framework of the Penalty

Calculation of the Fine: The regulatory framework allows for a penalty ranging from a minimum of SEK5,000 to a maximum equivalent to 10% of the licensee's previous financial year's turnover. Given Yggdrasil's 2023 net sales of approximately SEK5.8 million, the fine was set significantly below the maximum possible, at SEK300,000.

Broader Regulatory Actions

This incident with Yggdrasil is part of a broader pattern of regulatory enforcement by Spelinspektionen aimed at maintaining the integrity of Sweden's gaming and betting landscape. Other significant fines and warnings have been issued recently, including a SEK2 million fine to Casino Cosmopol for AML deficiencies and a cautionary notice to Svenska Spel. Additionally, operators Moonrail Limited and Perfect Storm faced bans for targeting Swedish consumers without the requisite licensing, highlighting Spelinspektionen's commitment to a compliant and secure gaming environment.

Yggdrasil's recent fine and warning are a critical reminder of the importance of adherence to regulatory requirements. As Spelinspektionen continues to uphold high standards within the gaming sector, companies operating within or entering the Swedish market are reminded of the paramount importance of regulatory compliance. This event impacts Yggdrasil and signals the potential consequences of oversight or non-compliance to the broader industry.
Gaza: Twelve people drowned trying to reach aid dropped by plane off a Gaza beach, Palestinian health authorities said on Tuesday, amid growing fears of famine nearly six months into Israel's military campaign.



Video of the airdrop obtained by Reuters showed crowds of people running towards the beach, in Beit Lahia in north Gaza, as crates with parachutes floated down, then people standing deep in water and bodies being pulled onto the sand.

In Washington, the Pentagon said three of the 18 bundles of airdropped aid into Gaza on Monday had parachute malfunctions and fell into the water, but could not confirm if anyone was killed trying to reach the aid.

It was the latest in a string of incidents involving deaths during aid deliveries in the crowded Palestinian enclave where some people are foraging for weeds to eat and baking barely edible bread from animal feed.

A piece of paper retrieved from Monday's airdrop said in Arabic written over an American flag that the aid was from the United States. The video showed the apparently lifeless body of a bearded young man being hauled onto the beach, the eyes open but unmoving, and another man trying to revive him with chest compressions as somebody said, "It's over."

"He swam to get food for his children and he was martyred," said a man standing on the beach who did not give his name. "They should deliver aid through the (overland) crossings. Why are they doing this to us?"

Aid agencies say only about a fifth of required supplies are entering Gaza as Israel persists with an air and ground offensive, triggered by Hamas' Oct. 7 attack, that has shattered the enclave, pushing parts of it into famine already.

They say deliveries by air or sea directly onto Hamas-run Gaza's beaches are no substitute for increased supplies coming in by land via Israel or Egypt.

Palestinians gather on a beach as they collect aid airdropped by an airplane, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in the northern Gaza Strip, March 25, 2024. Photo: Reuters.

Aid delivery crisis

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged Israel to give an "ironclad commitment" for unfettered aid access into the Gaza Strip and described the number of trucks blocked at the border as "a moral outrage".

Israel says it puts no limit on the amount of humanitarian aid entering Gaza and blames problems in it reaching civilians within the enclave on UN agencies, which it says are inefficient.

Distribution of aid inside Gaza has been complicated, particularly in the north, and last month health authorities in Gaza said Israeli troops killed more than 100 people trying to take aid from a convoy.

Israel's military disputed that account, saying people who had rushed the convoy had been crushed to death by the crowd or aid trucks.

It has banned UNRWA, the main UN agency working in Gaza which it accuses of complicity with Hamas, from carrying out aid deliveries to the north, UNRWA's head said on Sunday.

UNRWA denies it is complicit with Hamas and is awaiting the results of investigations into its handling of the accusations, which have led some donors to pause funding.

The UN humanitarian office urged Israel on Tuesday to revoke an apparent ban on food aid to north Gaza by UNRWA, saying people there were facing a "cruel death by famine".

UNRWA communications director Juliette Touma said the reported drownings showed the best way to deliver aid was by trucks run by aid agencies.

"These tragic reports coming from Gaza are yet another indication that the most efficient, fastest, safest way to reach people with much-needed humanitarian assistance is via road and via the humanitarian organisations including UNRWA who are working on the ground," Touma said.
Gangs now control about 80 percent Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince. Since their aggressive takeover on Feb. 29, civilians have feared for their lives as they face violence and death. Many civilians have been killed and thousands have been left homeless.

On Monday, gangs attacked two upscale neighborhoods in a rampage that left at least a dozen people dead in surrounding areas. Gunmen looted homes in the communities of Laboule and Thomassin before sunrise, forcing residents to flee.

According to an AP report, these attacks "raised concerns that gang violence would not cease despite Prime Minister Ariel Henry announcing nearly a week ago that he would resign once a transitional presidential council is created, a move that gangs had been demanding".

Gang leaders have long opposed Henry, claiming that he was never elected by the people. They also blame him for the poverty crisis prevalent across the country. However, critics of the gangs accuse them of trying to seize power for themselves or for other unelected Haitian politicians.

Henry's agreement to resign came amid pressure from both the international community and gang leaders, who warned of civil war if he did not step down.

However, Henry's surrender has done little to satisfy the gangs, who have promised to oppose any outside intervention in Haiti's affairs. That includes an effort backed by the United Nations to send a multinational armed force, led by Kenya, to Haiti to help the national police respond to the widespread violence and unrest.

The U.S. has encouraged a UN-led operation to restore order in Haiti, but has declined to take the lead in such a mission. In addition, Kenya and a number of Caribbean countries have offered to deploy security forces to Haiti.

Part of the problem, according to experts, is that Haitian armed groups have grown more autonomous, and force alone will not resolve the growing security crisis.

Approximately 200 armed gangs exist in Haiti, about half of which are located in Port-au-Prince, where there are two major gang coalitions.

The first -- the G9 -- is led by Jimmy "Barbecue" Cherizier, a former Haitian police officer who is under UN and United States sanctions for his involvement in Haiti's violence.

The second is GPep, led by Gabriel Jean-Pierre, also known as Ti Gabriel. Both gangs have been rivals for years, battling for control of neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince. And both groups have been accused of war crimes, including mass killings and sexual violence across Haiti.

Since 2022, attacks and gang violence has surged and the number of Haitians facing acute food insecurity has tripled since 2016, according to the United Nations World Food Program.

What this means is that most of Haiti's population of approximately 11 million faces immediate danger. With 4.3 million children - 1.2 million of whom are under five years old - Haiti faces an overwhelming crisis that could see mass migration, starvation, or even death.

Even in June 2023, months before the violence exploded, UNICEF warned of an impending disaster.

According to UNICEF, "Nearly 3 million children - the highest number on record - need humanitarian support in Haiti, where they face staggering levels of violence that have exacerbated hunger and malnutrition in a country already mired in poverty and a resurgence of cholera."

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Introduction

This book has been called the Uncle Tom's Cabin of its time. Another commentator has said: "Highly detailed, [it's] a roadmap to the craziness of a powerful and fanatical segment of the population that is unlikely to fold any time soon."

"The 15% Solution" in the title refers to an electoral strategy to ensure victory for the Republican Party that was first developed by the Republican Christian Right in the 1980s. (The current [2024] GOP voter suppression campaign is one of many successors to it that they have developed over time.) The book was written as "fictional non-fiction." The first version was published in 1996. In it, the book was purported to have been published in 2048, on the 25th Anniversary of the Restoration of Constitutional Democracy, that occurred in 2023.

The Restoration followed the end of the conflict between the forces of the fascist government of the "New American Republics" (NAR), a racially partitioned "Christian nation," that under the successor to the old Republican Party, the American Christian Nation Party, had demolished the old United States, creating the NAR in its place, and the "Movement for the Restoration of Constitutional Democracy." It was aided by the Intervention of the Greater East Asian Federation (the primary motivation of which was to eventually recover the enormous debt which the NAR owed to it, which the GEAF knew the NAR would never repay).

From the perspective of the mid-1990s when the book was written, it was primarily focused on the threat of developing fascism "American style," which even then was posed by the Christian fundamentalist/nationalist movement, operating in close alliance with the Republican Party. (Of course, in real time that association has become ever more pronounced, and clear, e.g., Trump himself is being associated with "Christ," and the Republican Speaker of the House of Representatives, a self-proclaimed Christian, believes that he communicates directly with God.) Again, written from the perspective of the mid-1990s (with no updating or editing), the book's primary purpose was to show how a theocratic authoritarianism could gradually be introduced into any country, even the "world's greatest democracy," behind a facade of Constitutional legality no less.

That is, of course, if there is no awareness in some significant sectors of the population, and among opposition elected and party officials nationally, of what might happen, and when the time comes, that it is happening. In that sense the book follows in the tradition established by its two major forebears: Jack London's The Iron Heel and Sinclair Lewis' It Can't Happen Here. W hen originally published in 1996, the book, to repeat, presented a warning about what might happen in the U.S. as a result of the alliance that was developing then in real time, between the Christian Right and the Republican Party.

Presented in this serialization is the book as it was re-published by Punto Press in 2013, with virtually no editing or updating from the 1996 original. It does have a new "Afterword," but again, the text is virtually the same as that which was published in the original version, in 1996. And so, at the present time the book presents a warning about what really IS happening in the United States. Projected in the book in 1996 was that the Republican Party would trans-mogrify into a then-fictional "Republican-Christian Alliance."

By 2012, Howard Fineman of The Huffington Post and MSNBC had determined that the Republican Party had already become what he termed the "American Faith Party" (1). And now in 2024, what is termed "Christian Nationalism," both in policy and in persons, is playing an ever-more central role in the Republican Party and its policies. As I said in a previously published columns, Die Warnung (The Warning, the title of a paper published in the mid-1930s about Nazi Germany which predicted its further development (click here) is clear.

This 3rd version of the book is available on Amazon in the published paperback and on Kindle: click here.

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1. Fineman, H. , "Rise of Faith within the GOP has created America's First Religious Party," The Huffington Post, lclick here.

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I got dozens of positive feedback on my "redirection" to focus only or 95% on positive news for a time (few weeks may) to balance....

"The Old World is dying and the new world is struggling to be born: now is the time for monsters" wrote Antonio Gramsci But Arundhati Roy adds "Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing. I indeed can....We Palesinians have experience in resurrection and remember the story of the Phoenix rising from the ashes, that comes from our region. Both the Holy Quran and the Holy Bible have many statements on hope.

ITEM 1: Resilience/Sumud of Gaza in a holy season:

Gaza Muslims sharing when they have food and when they don't

Gaza catholics carry on/sumud and celebrate Palm Sunday

Gaza Palestinian boy who has no food for himself managed to get cat food to feed cats

Beautiful: A story of love and resistance by Susan Abulhawa

ITEM 2: Testimonies in the hundreds of thousands from people on the ground and outside (giving testimony is an act of heroism). Here are three examples:

Survivor testimony 1

Survivor testimony 2

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio Cortez speaks out

Dr Nicola Perugini and Dr Luigi Daniele joined for a few minutes by Francesca Albanese who gave her report to the UN later in the day.

ITEM 3: Petitions To Congress

ITEM 4: Other ACTIONS

JOIN Freedom Flotilla to Gaza to sail again (please support/join)

SUPPORT families of these four Gazan young people

JOIN if you are in the USA and is veteran

SUPPORT Julian Assange "accused" of exposing US war crimes against extradition from the UK to the US.

JOIN ANNOUNCED MASS ACTION and civil disobedience on PALESTINE LAND DAY (30 March) or organize your own activity

Actions have continued and accelerated in hundred of cities globally. Here are examples:

British museum in London

Against an Israeli ship in Sydney

Ottawa

Binghampton

Jordan

Finally Kites for Gaza from AFSC

Stay Human and keep Palestine alive

Mazin Qumsiyeh

A bedouin in cyberspace, a villager at home Professor, Founder, and (volunteer) Director Palestine Museum of Natural History

Palestine Institute of Biodiversity and Sustainability Bethlehem University Occupied Palestine

facebook pages Personal Institute
CodingJobBoard.com Revolutionizes Tech Job Search with Hyper-Focused Platform New York, NY - March 27th, 2024 - CodingJobBoard.com, a new innovative job board, is disrupting the tech recruitment space by offering a dedicated platform solely for developers, programmers, and coding professionals. With a laser focus on this high-demand sector, CodingJobBoard.com streamlines the job hunt process for both employers and job seekers in the coding arena. "The coding job market is booming, yet developers 
Forward Thinking - South West is thrilled to announce the successful launch of its flagship business community, YAB, in Plymouth on Friday, 8th March. The event, held at BLOCK, brought together local business leaders eager to revolutionise the way they approach growth and problem-solving. YAB, a unique peer-to-peer business community, offers a refreshing alternative to traditional networking events by prioritising genuine connections and collaborative problem-solving over sales pitches. Attendees of 
YEREVAN, MARCH 27, ARMENPRESS. From March 26 to June 26 of this year, AraratBank starts placement of bonds subject to the conditions described below:

Total volume: USD 5 million

Quantity: 200, 000

Nominal value: USD 25

Maturity: 48 months

Annual coupon yield: 5.75%

Coupon frequency: quarterly

Once placed, the bonds will be listed on the AMX Armenia Securities Exchange.

According to Sevak Manukyan, Head of the Investment Banking Department of AraratBank, acquiring bonds is  worthwhile investment as bonds are highly liquid and can be sold at any time on the secondary market through a bank or other broker. Besides, new customers will be provided with USD-denominated bank accounts without charging annual service fee, as well as securities (depo) accounts - without maintenance fee.

For complete information on the 27th issue of AraratBank dollar bonds, please follow the link.

The program prospectus of the bond issue was registered by the Central Bank of Armenia on September 6, 2023.
YEREVAN, MARCH 27, ARMENPRESS. The world's longest reversible passenger aerial tramway Wings of Tatev is ready for the new tourist season. Guests of the cable car will be able to enjoy a flight with panoramic views to the ancient Tatev Monastery, walk along hiking trails, take advantage of jeep tours, visit a medieval oil mill and the exhibition Hidden Facts about Tatev.

Prior to the cable car flight, the exhibition Hidden Facts about Tatev is open to the public near the Halidzor station. Guests will be able to learn about the centuries-old history of Tatev, its role in the development of Syunik, as well as interesting facts, figures and events of the region.

On the way to Tatev Monastery, the cable car cab offers panoramic views of the picturesque Vorotan Gorge, the natural attraction Devil's Bridge and the Great Hermitage of Tatev. Arriving at Tatev Monastery, the spiritual center of the region, guests can also visit the monks' cells and a museum in a medieval oil mill.

For those who prefer activities, Wings of Tatev offers a variety of hiking routes and jeep tours - awe-inspiring adventures to the abandoned medieval villages around Tatev.

Tatev has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Armenia. Every fifth guest of the country includes the cable car on their route. Thanks to this, the tourist flow to the Syunik region has increased 17 times compared to 2010. We hope that this trend will continue and more people from different parts of the world will be able to discover this unique region, commented Maria Butenko, CEO of Impulse Business Management Company, which manages the cable car.

For more than 13 years of operation, Wings of Tatev has welcomed more than 1 million visitors. Wings of Tatev not only reveals previously inaccessible parts of Armenia to travelers but also elevates the country's recognition. It was included in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest passenger cable car in the world (5752 meters). Another notable achievement is the shortest construction period for such a large-scale engineering structure (10 months). The cable car was twice recognised as the best in the world according to the World Travel Awards. The first award went to Wings of Tatev in 2021, the second  in 2023.

The construction of Wings of Tatev was carried out by the Austrian-Swiss company Doppelmayr/Garaventa, a leader in the field of ropeway construction. Every year, Wings of Tatev is successfully tested for compliance with international safety standards.

Wings of Tatev project is a part of Tatev Revival program, initiated by Ruben Vardanyan and Veronika Zonabend. The cable car is a non-profit project, and all its proceeds are directed towards the restoration of the Tatev Monastery and community development. The cable car is managed by Impulse Business Management.
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Chairman of the Libyan Administrative Control Authority, Abdallah Gaderbouh, is taking part in the Global Forum on Fighting Corruption and Promoting Integrity, which is being held in the French capital, Paris, with the aim of strengthening integrity and combating corruption
Dakar, Senegal (PANA) - The head of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM), Malin Bjork, has welcomed the attitude of the other candidates in congratulating the winner of last Sunday's presidential election in Senegal, which has contributed greatly to a "peaceful post-election climate"
Photo: (Photo : Spencer Platt/Getty Images )

Authorities are presently seeking at least three assailants following the intended manslaughter of two teens at a Nashville apartment complex over the weekend.

One of the victims, recognized as 17-year-old Camron McGlothen, lived at the Hermitage Flats Apartments in East Nashville. The identification of the other casualty, an 18-year-old, has been concealed by authorities pending the announcement of his family.

Nashville Police Conducting Investigation into the Shooting Incident

The Nashville Police Department's Homicide Unit detectives are earnestly investigating the circumstances to confirm the reason behind the deadly gunfire of the two teens.

The double killing circumstances at roughly 4:45 p.m. local time on Saturday when three attackers, one of whom was wearing a ski mask, approached the casualty who was standing in a breezeway at the apartment complex and opened fire, as per police reports.

Both casualties sustained numerous gunshot injuries, according to law enforcement officials. Upon the arrival of police officers, the casualties were found seriously harmed and not responsive.

The 18-year-old casualty was pronounced dead at the location, while McGlothen was transferred to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead.

Following the gunfire, the suspects reportedly escaped from the apartment complex, as declared by police. The inspection into the circumstances remains continuous as authorities persist in pursuing leads in their search for the manslayer.

According to police, the suspects escaped from the apartment complex after the casualties were shot.

In a statement, the Nashville Police Department's Homicide Unit detectives declared that they were following leads to grasp the reason behind the deadly gunfire of the two teens, aged 18 and 17.

Read Also: Philadelphia Mass Shooting Suspect Heads to Trial After Undergoing Mental Health Intervention

Two Teens Dies from Shooting in Apartment Complex

Following gunfire circumstances at a Forestdale apartment complex on Monday night, two people, including a teenage boy, deadly lost their lives.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office reported that the circumstances happened on Chickasaw Drive, where the bodies of a 19-year-old and a 13-year-old were found inside a crashed vehicle.

Identified as 13-year-old Johnathan Keith Cottingham and 19-year-old Louis Craig IV by the Jefferson County Coroner, the loss of these young lives has deeply affected the community.

Joel Doniel, a resident of the apartment complex, expressed profound sadness at the premature deaths of these teenagers, emphasizing the tragedy of their youth.

Doniel recounted being at home with his wife when gunfire erupted, underscoring the fear of random violence in the area.

Nearby True Life Baptist Church's Pastor Steve Small also expressed sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the universality of such tragedies and the need for community support.

Although a third teenager reportedly escaped unharmed from the vehicle, the shooting remains under investigation.

Authorities suspect the victims were deliberately targeted and were acquainted with the shooter. Despite ongoing efforts, no arrests have been made yet.

Superintendent Dr. Walter Gonsoulin of Jefferson County Schools extended condolences, particularly mourning the loss of Johnathan Cottingham, a student at Minor Middle School, and urging swift justice for the perpetrator.

The school district has provided support to students and faculty affected by the tragedy through the JEFCOED Cares team.

Related Article: Worcester Mother, 11-Year-Old Daughter Shot in Parked Car; Police Detains 1 Suspect, Continues Search for Another
Photo: (Photo : PASCAL POCHARD-CASABIANCA/AFP via Getty Images )

Authorities reported that a 30-year-old hiker was found dead at the foot of a waterfall in Carmel Valley, California, four days after commencing on a day hike.

Caroline Meister's body was discovered on Friday morning as rescue teams moved down a waterfall near the "Cut Off Trail" in the Ventana Wilderness.

No Suspicion of Foul Play in Death of Hiker Caroline Meister

Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto stated, "Based on the physical evidence, we don't suspect any foul play. We believe it was accidental."

A forensic examination will be directed to make sure of the exact cause of Meister's death. Meister had departed from the Tassajara Zen Mountain Center for a solo hike around 10 a.m. on March 18.

When she failed to return on the same day, center staff prompted the Monterey County Sheriff's Office, noting that she was "not equipped for an overnight hike."

Meister's parents affirmed that she was a "highly experienced and enthusiastic hiker" and was "very familiar with the area." She was living and employed at the Zen Center at the time of her death.

The San Francisco Zen Center conveyed deep sadness and shock, declaring, "We are all deeply saddened and in shock.

The sanghas at Tassajara, Green Gulch Farm, and City Center are gathering to support each other in the vigil of this painful news," and added, "108 bells are ringing. Our hearts are broken."

After an intensive four-day search, authorities in California have located the body of Caroline Meister, a seasoned hiker, at the base of a waterfall in Carmel Valley.

The Monterey County Sheriff's Office, with support from various search and rescue teams, disposed of numerous resources including drones, K9 units, and aircraft equipped with heat sensors to find her inside the Ventana Wilderness.

Read Also: Florida Governor DeSantis Signs One of Country's Strictest Laws Banning Social Media for Children Under 14

Hiker's Body Discovered at the Base of Waterfall

On Friday, search teams conducting a "high angle search" along the "Cut Off" trail discovered Meister's body. She was discovered at the foot of a cliff, with a wound constant with a fall. Authorities ruled out foul play based on evidence at the location.

Meister, who had been living and working at the Tassajara Zen Mountain Center, set out for her hike adequately prepared for a day trip, but not equipped for an overnight stay.

Her intended route included the Windcave Trail, a non-official trail known to local hikers. Concern arose when she failed to return, prompting staff and friends at the Zen Center to initiate a search and contact authorities.

Before her body was found, Meister's parents described her as an avid hiker familiar with the area. They expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the search efforts.

Heather Iarusso, director of the Tassajara Zen Mountain Center, emphasized that hiking alone on the nearby trails was common among residents and staff, describing Meister as a beloved member of the community.

"Many of us have lived here for a while, and we're familiar with these trials. She was not out there doing anything risky," Ms Ianrusso said.

"She's just a lovely human being, and we all - we already miss her deeply. She was an amazingly sweet, bright spirit, very gentle and kind and helpful," she added.

Related Article: Father Fatally Falls to Death from Oregon Trail Cliff During Family Hike
Photo: (Photo : Jemal Countess /Getty Images)

The Supreme Court's first abortion case since the overturn of Roe v. Wade suggests the likelihood of maintaining access to a medication crucial in nearly two-thirds of U.S. abortions last year.

During approximately 90 minutes of arguments, a prevailing consensus hinted at the lack of legal grounds or standing for abortion opponents challenging the FDA's approval of mifepristone and subsequent measures facilitating its accessibility.

This potential decision would uphold existing regulations permitting patients to obtain the drug via mail without requiring an in-person doctor's visit, enabling them to use the medication for abortions within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.

By opting for the no-standing approach, the court could sidestep the more politically charged aspects of the case, maintaining the status quo on mifepristone's distribution and usage.

Supreme Court's Looming Mifepristone Ruling

In the current legal environment, the re-engagement of the high court with abortion-related issues is unfolding against a backdrop shaped by its pivotal 2022 abortion ruling, which prompted numerous Republican-led states to impose bans or stringent limitations on abortion.

Elizabeth Prelogar, the Solicitor General representing the Biden administration at the Supreme Court, advocated for dismissing the case and clarifying that anti-abortion physicians and organizations lack legal standing.

Even among the justices who previously supported overturning Roe v. Wade, there were doubts raised about the standing of abortion opponents.

Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh voiced skepticism regarding the standing of two doctors mentioned by attorney Erin Hawley, questioning whether they had actually suffered harm as required for standing.

Barrett, in particular, expressed reservations about whether the doctors' affidavits demonstrated direct harm or merely a conscientious objection to participating in abortions.

Kavanaugh's sole query during the proceedings also focused on the technical aspect of standing, seeking confirmation that federal law protects doctors from being compelled to perform or assist in abortions against their conscience.

The case under consideration involves a conservative federal appeals court's decision that could restrict access to mifepristone, a drug used in medication abortions.

This ruling has immediate political implications, and the forthcoming verdict, anticipated by early summer, may impact congressional and presidential campaigns.

Furthermore, another abortion-related case is scheduled for next month, where the justices will deliberate on whether federal emergency treatment laws should mandate abortions in hospitals, even in states that have prohibited them otherwise.

Read Also: Wyoming Governor Vetoes Abortion Bill, Signs Ban on Gender-Affirming Care for Minors

The Future of Medication Abortion and Reproductive Rights

The potential impact of a ruling favoring abortion opponents would be significant, potentially leading to disruptions in the distribution of mifepristone via mail and major pharmacy chains, as well as the cessation of telehealth consultations where the drug is prescribed-a practice gaining popularity.

President Joe Biden's administration and pharmaceutical companies caution that such a ruling could also erode the FDA's authority in drug approvals by allowing judicial interference in scientific assessments.

They argue that mifepristone, produced by New York-based Danco Laboratories, is among the safest drugs ever approved by the FDA.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, appointed by Biden and newer to the court since the last abortion case, echoed these concerns by questioning Danco's lawyer, Jessica Ellsworth, about potential judicial interference in medical and scientific evaluations.

The Supreme Court temporarily halted the modified ruling from the appeals court and agreed to review the case, although Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas expressed readiness to impose some restrictions during the case's progression.

During discussions primarily focused on legal technicalities, Alito and Thomas raised questions regarding the transportation of mifepristone through mail, referencing the Comstock Act-a seldom-used criminal law now revived by anti-abortion groups to impede mifepristone's mail delivery.

Even if the Comstock Act isn't directly addressed in the court's decision, concerns persist among abortion rights advocates that future administrations opposing abortion might exploit the law to limit mifepristone access.

Since 2000, over 6 million individuals have used mifepristone, a key component of medication abortions that blocks progesterone and prepares the uterus for the effects of misoprostol, leading to pregnancy termination within the first 10 weeks.

Healthcare providers indicate that without mifepristone, they would rely solely on misoprostol, which is somewhat less effective in terminating pregnancies.

Related Article: Tennessee Mechanical Manufacturing Company Fined $1.5M for Child Labor Violations
Photo: (Photo : J Pat Carter/Getty Images )

The ACLU, ACLU of Ohio, and Goodwin law firm cooperatively filed a lawsuit on Tuesday challenging House Bill 68 in Ohio. This legislation constrains gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors and also bars transgender girls from cooperating in girls' and women's sports.

The lawsuit particularly targets the medical care limitations and urges the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas to disqualify the law, known as the SAFE Act, before its scheduled implementation on April 24, 2024.

Ohio Families Submit Legal Action Against House Bill 68

Under the bill, physicians offering gender-affirming care to transgender youth could face disciplinary action from their respective licensing boards. However, exclusions are made for related care given to non-transgender youth, and a grandfather clause permits transgender people already undergoing medication to continue.

The lawsuit represents two families who argue that their children's access to essential healthcare is endangered by the law, alleging violations of several sections of the Ohio Constitution, including equal protection and due process clauses.

Freda Levenson, Legal Director at ACLU of Ohio, emphasized that medical decisions should remain private and between families and healthcare providers, vowing to uphold transgender youth's access to vital healthcare.

One child represented in the lawsuit attested to the positive impact of puberty blockers on mental health, expressing concerns about potential health repercussions if denied access to hormone therapy in the future.

Despite a veto by Republican Governor Mike DeWine, the Republican-controlled Ohio House and Senate overrode it, prompting the legal challenge.

DeWine voiced worries about the legislation's judicial ramifications and its potential harm to transgender individuals. The bill's proponents disagree with more studies on gender-affirming care, while critics highlight the documented advantages of such medication and warn against the adverse impacts of limiting them.

Read Also: Wyoming Governor Vetoes Abortion Bill, Signs Ban on Gender-Affirming Care for Minors

Limiting Transgender Youth from Accessing Gender-Affirming Healthcare

Ohio joins a growing number of states implementing laws restraining gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth, a move criticized by medical associations intensifying its safety and effectiveness in improving the well-being of transgender people.

DeWine vetoed the law on December 29 after visiting children's hospitals across the state and meeting with families of children with gender dysphoria. He framed his veto as a considered, limited, and "pro-life" action, citing the increased suicide risks associated with inadequate treatment for gender dysphoria.

DeWine also announced plans to implement administrative measures to prohibit transgender surgeries until individuals reach the age of 18 and to enhance the state's regulation and monitoring of gender-affirming treatments for both minors and adults.

However, this plan was quickly abandoned after objections from transgender adults regarding the potential impact of state regulations on their lives and health.

Ohio became the 23rd state to prohibit gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth, reflecting a broader trend among Republican-controlled state legislatures aimed at curtailing what they perceive as harmful to children. Despite DeWine's veto, Ohio lawmakers easily overrode it, demonstrating their commitment to the bill.

The families, identified under the pseudonyms Moe and Goe, who filed the lawsuit on Tuesday, requested the court to issue a temporary restraining order to prevent enforcement of the bans when they officially take effect on April 24 and to declare the law unconstitutional.

Related Article: Georgia Association of Educators Sue School District Concerning Limitations on Race, LGBTQ Topics in Classrooms
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More members of the Ghanaian business community are openly embracing the tax reforms policy of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia who has assured the populace he will implement if elected President.



These tax reforms are to boost local businesses.



Following his announcement to introduce new tax reforms comprising a flat rate tax and tax amnesty to businesses and individuals, a number of business associations including spare parts dealers, Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry, CIBA which is made up of over 20 business associations have endorsed this policy.



At Sunyani today, during engagements with traders and artisans, the group also welcomed Dr. Bawumia's proposals.



They narrated their ordeal in the hands of the tax collectors saying "we know we have to pay our taxes to help the country but often we do not understand how the taxes are calculated. They just bring us the bill and we are harassed to pay".



Another trader added; "They lock up our stores if we don't pay the high figures they quote for us and it is not good for our businesses, so what you are proposing will help us to understand what we have to pay."



Addressing the traders' situation, Vice President Bawumia stressed his commitment to implementing the tax reforms, stating "I know your plight and I am very committed to implementing the tax reforms I have proposed to help traders and the larger business community".



"There is no need for any confusion over payment of taxes. It should be simple, transparent and very competitive for businesses. This is why I am proposing a new tax system with a flat tax rate and tax amnesty for businesses and individuals so that we all start afresh", Dr. Bawumia emphasized.



Dr. Bawumia also reiterated his commitment to cancelling the E-Levy as well as pegging Ghana's import duties with that of Togo to ensure parity.



He noted this will avoid goods being offloaded at Togo ports and smuggled into Ghana due to lower import duties in Togo.



The NPP flagbearer appealed for support from the traders to become Ghana's next President and have the opportunity to implement his progressive policies.



"Somebody has been President before and we all saw what he did. I have never been President before and as Vice President or the drivers mate, I have contributed so much to the development of our country as I have mentioned them to you. So if you make me President, I will work even harder and implement all these policies I have shared with you to boost your businesses and move our country forward."











Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The United States is eyeing April 18 for a possible resumption of peace talks on Sudan in Saudi Arabia, U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello said on Tuesday, as Washington seeks a resolution to the conflict that has displaced millions and caused the world's largest humanitarian crisis.



Washington has clearly communicated that peace talks with the warring parties in Saudi Arabia would need to be inclusive, Perriello told reporters, including the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, regional East African bloc IGAD and the African Union.



While the negotiations may or may not start around April 18, and it was unclear whether the warring parties would agree, Perriello said it would be a natural time for talks to resume after the holy month of Ramadan, as well as a donor conference in Paris planned for April 15.



"I'd like the talks to start tomorrow, but I think that realistically we're looking at after Ramadan. But I think in the meantime, we want to use that period between now and the start of talks to be exploring every angle we can that it's teed up for success," Perriello said.



"That would be a good timeline to do it. But it's not firm."



On Sunday, General Yasir al-Atta, one of the army's top leaders, said there would be no negotiations or truce with the RSF.



The army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) began battling each other in mid-April last year as long-simmering tensions erupted into heavy fighting.



Saudi Arabia and the United States led unsuccessful talks in Jeddah last year to try to reach a truce.



The conflict has created the world's biggest displacement crisis, pushed parts of the 49-million population close to famine, and triggered waves of ethnically driven killings and sexual violence in the western region of Darfur.



Perriello said that the United Arab Emirates - which has been accused of supplying the RSF with military support, a charge the UAE denies - and others in the region are aware the situation is "quickly hurtling out of control and that the RSF is not in a position right now where it's marching to either military or diplomatic victory."







Source: Reuters









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YEREVAN, MARCH 27, ARMENPRESS. The MY STEP Charitable Foundation is organizing the Successful Businesswomen Support Novice Women Entrepreneurs charity dinner, the proceeds of which will go to novice women entrepreneurs doing business in the provinces of the Republic of Armenia.

According to a press release from the Foundation, the charity dinner will take place at ArmAs Winery, on April 14. Accompanied by a guide, the guests of the evening will tour the production units of the winery, there will be an exhibition-sale of the products of novice women entrepreneurs.

The dinner will feature performances of Armenian ethnic and modern dances by ETHNO COLORS band, speeches by successful and novice women entrepreneurs, there will also be a prize draw.

Those who wish to attend the dinner must purchase a ticket, which costs AMD 1,000,000. The amount will be transferred to a novice woman entrepreneur doing business in the provinces of the Republic of Armenia.

Seats are limited. The Foundation requests to purchase the tickets before April 10, 2024.

To get tickets, call 044 444 761 or send an e-mail to [email protected].

The My Step Foundation will provide coverage of the charity dinner.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Monday, launched the "one student, one tablet" initiative under the Ghana Smart School Project.



Speaking at the launch which was held at the Accra International Conference Center, President Akufo-Addo said "Providing tablets to our SHS students will open doors to endless opportunities. That is one student, and one tablet under the Ghana Smart Schools Project. The tablets are fitted with digital content to aid research, teaching, and learning"



The Ghana Smart School Project aims to distribute 1.3 million educational tablets to SHS students nationwide.



The tablet among other things, will allow students to avoid carrying heavy books to school every day because the tablets are preloaded with all essential textbooks and learning materials.



Samuel Ayeh Paye, the former Member of Parliament (MP) for Ayensuano constituency, has meanwhile, shot down rumors that the preloaded textbooks are from foreign publishers.



He was speaking during a panel discussion on The Platform programme on Peace FM.



Listen to him in the video below







Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Ashanti Regional Health Director of the Ghana Health Services, Dr Emmanuel Tenkorang has condemned power disconnection at various health facilities in the region.



According to him, it has been impeding healthcare delivery.



He said the act carried out by the Electricity Company of Ghana has been causing patients lives citing an incident where pre- term babies placed in incubators were left to their fate when power at a health facility was disconnected.



Imagine operating on a patient in a theatre and the power gets disconnected, at that moment what will become of this patient, he asked.



He admitted that various health facilities are in huge electricity debts but revealed that the facilities cannot afford to settle the debts in full therefore asked government to find ways to settle these debts.



Dr Emmanuel Tenkorang speaking to the media at the Ashanti Regional Health Service 2023 Annual Performance Review suggested that settling the huge electricity debts may come in two folds, thus billing the patients or the government taking up the bills.



We must also bear in mind that allowing patients to pay electricity bills too will come with another headache since these patients are already struggling to pay for their medical bills.



The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital ( KATH) is said to be owing over Ghc 27 million of electricity bills and not to talk of other hospitals, clinics and health centres in the region.



Dr Emmanuel Tenkorang has called for consultative dialogue between the Ministry of Finance and Health Ministry to find measures to address these outstanding debts.



The National Taskforce of the Electricity Company of Ghana threatened to disconnect hospitals from the national grid due to outstanding debts owed the power distributor.



This move is part of the ECGs comprehensive effort to recover funds owed by customers to strengthen its operational capabilities.







Source: Prince Kwadwo Boadu / Hello Fm









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The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Deputy Chief Executive responsible for Operations Louisa Atta-Agyemang (Mrs), on Tuesday March 26, 2024 embarked on a three-day working visit to the Greater Accra and Volta Regions.



Beginning in the Greater Accra Region, she visited some selected health facility sites and also interacted with the management teams and frontline staff of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).



Her visit was a follow-up monitoring of some selected 40 NHIA Health Provider sites for the limited rollout of the NHIA Biometric Membership Authentication System (BMAS).



The ultimate goal of the limited pilot is to test how the system will function in urban and rural settings as far as network connectivity and the systems performance is concerned.



This is with the view to fully deploy the solution nationwide to authenticate NHIS membership at all NHIA credentialed health provider sites and the full nationwide rollout is expected to start in the middle of May 2024.



The BMAS is powered by the NHIA MIS Directorate in collaboration with Margins Ghana Limited and the Project Director is the Ag. Director, MIS, Daniel Blankson with Ag. Deputy Director, Business Systems, MIS, Joe Annor-Darkwah as the Project Coordinator.



The DCE Operations touched base with the management and frontline staff of the NHIS Adenta and Dangbe West District Offices.



At the Adenta Office, the District Manager, Esther Charway and her colleague for Dangme West, Joyce Nancy Gyamwodie briefed the DCE Operations on their achievements and operational challenges.



Louisa Atta-Agyemang (Mrs) commended the teams for doing their best in increasing the NHIS active membership and assured them of Executive Management's commitment to addressing some of their operational challenges.



She later visited the Dangme West Community Complex Medical and Ayikuma CHPS compound where the limited rollout of the Biometric Membership Authentication System has been ongoing.



The delegation comprised the NHIA Management Information Systems (MIS) Directorate Ag. Director, Mr. Daniel Blankson, Ag. Director, Coastal Belt, Mr. Bernard Brown, Ag. Deputy Director, Business Systems, MIS, Joe Annor-Darkwah, Ag. Senior Manager Corporate Affairs (CAF), Abdul Karim Naatogmah, Senior Manager, DCE Operations Secretariat, Edmund Obeng Amaning and a Personal Assistant to the MIS Ag. Director, Nusrat Gyasi.





Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Amidst a wave of power outages casting a shadow over Ghana, Director-General John Boadu of the State Interest and Governance Authority (SIGA) launched a comprehensive investigation into the nation's energy infrastructure. With a mandate enshrined in the SIGA Act to oversee all state entities, Boadu left no stone unturned as he delved into the operations of key players in the sector.



Prior to his visit to GRIDCO today, John Boadu had already engaged with both the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), seeking to understand the challenges plaguing the power generation and distribution process.



Upon arriving at GRIDCO, John Boadu was met by the company's technical advisor, who provided invaluable insights into their operational landscape. Highlighting the significance of the Cash Waterfall mechanism, the advisor proposed it as a solution to GRIDCO's major challenges, emphasizing its potential to enhance financial stability and operational efficiency.



As the tour progressed, Boadu and his team were granted access to GRIDCO's system control rooma hive of activity where the intricate dance of power transmission unfolded before their eyes. Witnessing firsthand the meticulous management and control of power from various generators, John Boadu gained a deeper appreciation for GRIDCO's pivotal role in Ghana's energy ecosystem.



In a moment of pride, the technical advisor shared a remarkable achievement: for five consecutive years, GRIDCO had maintained its status as the best transmitter of power in Sub-Saharan Africaa testament to their dedication and expertise.



Fueled by a sense of duty and determination, D-G John Boadu reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to addressing GRIDCO's challenges. Recognizing the critical importance of a stable power supply for the nation's prosperity, he pledged to expedite efforts to restore reliability to Ghana's grid.



In closing, John Boadu commended GRIDCO for their unwavering dedication to duty, holding high the flag of Ghana even in the face of adversity. With a shared vision for a brighter energy future, Boadu and GRIDCO forged ahead, united in their resolve to overcome challenges and serve the best interests of all Ghanaians.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









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President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Mr. Bassirou Diomaye Faye on his election as the President of the Republic of Senegal.



President Tinubu in a statement issued by his spokesman, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, noted that President-elect Faye comes with great promise and a sterling record, wishing him success as he takes on this important job of leading the good people of Senegal.



The President also congratulated His Excellency, President Macky Sall, for overseeing an election that has been widely adjudged as peaceful and transparent.



He stated that the success of the presidential election in Senegal and the successful conduct of the general election in Liberia a few months ago have affirmed his long-held conviction that the taproot of democracy is deeply established in West Africa and will only grow stronger as it is watered by good governance, justice, and fairness to all.



As the Chairman of ECOWAS, the President affirmed that the successful conduct of the Senegal election is a boost to the sub-regional organization in its efforts to promote peace and constitutional order, as well as strengthen ties among member states.



President Tinubu congratulated the people of Senegal and assures them of Nigerias best wishes and support.

Source: vanguardngr









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Tubong, a community in the Tempane District in the Upper East Region, was thrown into a state of mourning last Saturday when two members of the community drowned in a dam.



Information gathered indicated that an 11-year-old boy drowned in the dam around 2 p.m. and an attempt by a 30-year-old man identified as Pakinyedu to rescue him was unsuccessful and he also drowned in the process.



The 30-year-old man and the boys father were having a conversation in the house when the sad news of the boy's drowning was brought to them.



The two immediately rushed to the scene to ascertain the veracity of the information and to rescue the little boy.



Upon reaching the bank of the dam, the fathers friend, who did not know how to swim, out of desperation and anxiety, jumped into the dam to rescue the boy, but he also drowned in the process.



The tragic incident attracted hundreds of residents to the scene, some of whom wept uncontrollably after a combined team of rescuers in the community managed to retrieve the lifeless bodies of the two individuals from the dam.



After the necessary traditional rites were performed, the two were buried the same day around 7 p.m.



The dam was constructed by World Vision Ghana (WVG), a non-governmental organisation, a few years ago, to provide all-year-round water to assist farmers in cultivating vegetables such as onions, okra and carrots, among others.



Confirmation



Confirming the incident to the Daily Graphic yesterday, the Assembly member for the Tubong-Konkomada Electoral Area, Simon Moyom Laar, said so far, they had not been able to establish what the little boy went to do at the dam, which led to his death.



He noted that since the dam was constructed, no resident had drowned in it, saying It is shocking and sad that two people had drowned in the water.



He urged parents not to allow their children to get close to the dam, to prevent a recurrence of the incident.

Source: graphic.com.gh









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State prosecutors have closed their case in the case in which Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Menzgold Ghana Limited, Nana Appiah Mensah, is standing trial for defrauding customers in the sum of over GH340 million.



This was after lawyers of Nana Appiah Mensah, also known as NAM1 concluded their cross examination of ASP Charles Nyarko, the investigator who was the 8th prosecution witness in the ongoing trial.



Following the conclusion of cross examination by counsel for the accused, State prosecutors led by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mrs Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa said This is our last witness and we close our case.



On December 20, 2023, the trial officially began with Stephen Attopoe, a Civil Engineer called by the prosecution, as the first witness.



Subsequently, the prosecution called Edward Otu Larbi, a sales Manager (PW2), Rose Ocran, a businesswoman (PW3), Benjamin Baffoe, a miner (PW4), Priscilla Adu Boateng, a trader (PW5), Fred Odame Asiedu,a businessman (PW6), Mrs. Rose Ocran, a businesswoman (PW7) and ASP Charles Nyarko, the investigator as PW8.



On March 26, 2024, the prosecution closed case with the investigator, ASP Charles Nyarko as the 8th witness. The had initially wanted to call 11 witnesses but reduced it to eight.



The High Court in Accra, presided over by Justice Ernest Owusu Dapaa, a Justice of the Court of Appeal sitting as an additional High Court judge has since ordered defence lawyer Kwame Boafo Akuffo to file his submission of no case by April 15, following his indication to file a submission of no case for his clients.



The prosecution, on the other hand, has until May 6, 2024, to file their reply to the submission of no case.



Justice Owusu-Dapaa, has also said the parties would be given 20 minutes each to highlight the key points on May 14.



Not guilty



NAM1 and two of his companies  Menzgold Ghana Limited and Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited, have been charged with 39 counts of selling gold without licence, operating a deposit-taking business, inducement to invest, defrauding by false pretence, fraudulent breach of trust and money laundering.



The allegations leveled against them relate to them defrauding their customers various sums of monies between 2016 and 2018, totaling GH340,835,650.



NAM1 has pleaded not guilty to all the charges and is on a bail of a GH500 million with four sureties.



Brief facts



The brief fact states that, the 2nd accused person (A2), Menzgold Ghana Limited and the 3rd accused person (A3), Brew Marketing Consult Limited, are sister companies owned by the 1st accused person (A1), Nana Appiah Mensah alias NAM1.



It added that, Menzgold was first registered as Menzbank Ghana Company Limited in 2013, whereas Brew Marketing Consult Limited was registered in December 2016.



It said, NAM1 is a director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Menzgold and Brew Marketing Consult and also a majority shareholder of both companies.



It stated that NAM1 operated Menzgold as a deposit-taking business under the guise of gold trading, without the requisite licence.



BoG public notice



According to the Prosecution, on March 11, 2015, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) issued a public notice to the effect that Menzbank was an unlicensed deposit- taking institution.



It said, NAM1, in a bid to circumvent the notice of BoG, changed the companys name from Menzbank to Menzbanc.



It explained that, sometime in 2017, NAM1 further changed the companys name from Menzbank to Menzgold Ghana Company Limited.



The facts state that, the business module of NAM1 was that Brew Marketing Consult sold gold/gold collectibles/gold dore to the public for the purpose of investing same in Menzgold, when Brew Marketing Consult did not have a licence to sell gold.



Breach of restrictions



The prosecution stated that, on August 22, 2016, the Minerals Commission, granted Menzgold a-three-year license to purchase and export gold.



It said, the terms of the licence stipulated that Brew Marketing Consult was to purchase gold from small-scale miners for export only.



The brief facts stated that, Menzgold and Brew Marketing Consult breached its restricted gold purchase and exportation licence by selling gold to persons in Ghana.



It said, in 2016, NAM1 and Menzgold established what they called gold vault market which provided the public with a platform to trade in gold and gold collectibles.



It added that, NAM1 and Menzgold, in an attempt to circumvent the requirements of the law, set up Brew Marketing Consult for the purposes of selling gold to the public to enable A2 to take the gold deposits.



The prosecution stated that, between 2017 and 2018, NAM1 and Menzgold invited members of the public to purchase gold and gold collectibles from Brew Marketing Consult and deposit same with Menzgold.



It explained that, in various forms of invitations, the accused persons representing Menzgold and Brew Marketing Consult as deposit-taking businesses, invited the members of the public to deposit purchased gold and gold collectibles with Menzgold in return for profits ranging from 7% to 10%.



Over 16, 000 complainants



It said, in response to this invitation, over 16,000 members of the public deposited huge sums of money with the expectation that they were dealing with an authorized deposit- taking business which would guarantee them the returns as advertised by the accused persons.



It said, Menzgold and Brew Marketing Consult, continued with their operations despite several engagements and warning notices issued by the relevant agencies.



The prosecution stated that, subsequently, members of the public started facing challenges either with delayed payments or reduced dividends; a number of cheques issued by NAM1 and Menzgold were also dishonoured.



It said, on September 7, 2018, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) directed Menzgold to suspend its business for operating without a license from the SEC.



Petition



It said, between November 2016 and March 2019, many customers of the accused persons petitioned the police complaining that they had invested huge sums of money with the accused persons but were unable to realize their investments after persistent efforts by them.



The prosecution stated that, investigations revealed that the accused persons under false pretenses took a total sum of GH340,835,650 from their customers which these customers have not recovered.



Investigations further disclosed that between 2017 and 2018, the accused persons transferred huge sums of depositors funds from Menzgold Ghana Company Ltd. and Brew Marketing Consult Ltd to Zylofon Media, a company related to A1.



Huge sums of money were also withdrawn by Al or transferred into his bank account for his personal use.



Investigations have established that the money fraudulently obtained from depositors and dishonestly appropriated by the accused persons remained unpaid as Menzgold Ghana Company Ltd.s license was revoked.



In the course of investigations, a number of vehicles were recovered from the accused persons which have been auctioned, and the proceeds kept in an exhibit account. Some gold bars were also recovered from the accused persons, the brief facts stated.





Source: kasapaonline









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The Minority in Parliament has strongly condemned Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), for his recent remarks regarding the revenue mobilization methods employed by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).



According to the NDC MPs, Dr. Bawumia's comments hold no substance, especially given his position as the Vice President of the country.



In a press statement issued on Tuesday, March 26, and signed by their leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, they stressed the importance of accountability, urging Dr. Bawumia and the government to take responsibility for creating what they perceive as a high tax regime.



The Minority expressed astonishment at Dr. Bawumia's public criticism of the GRA, arguing that the authority is simply carrying out its constitutionally mandated duty of tax enforcement.



Furthermore, they contended that the excessive taxation policies under the Akufo-Addo administration have made Ghana a less attractive destination for business activities.



It is shocking to note that Alhaji Bawumia had the audacity to single out GRA workers for attack and condemnation after the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government had imposed a lot of taxes on businesses and Ghanaians.



The governments huge appetitie for taxes has created a high tax regime which has made the country unattractive for doing business. It is therefore not surprising that many businesses in Ghana are relocating to other countries in the West African sub-region. This spells doom and gloom for Ghanaian employees as jobs which would have otherwise been filled by them get exported as a consequence of the relocation of businesses from the country.



During a meeting with the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Bawumia expressed concerns about the alleged misuse of tax collection by GRA staff, citing it as a pretext for harassing businesses.



However, the Organized Labour, in a statement dated Friday, March 22, 2024, deemed Dr. Bawumia's comments as "unfortunate," interpreting them as a discredit to the dedicated efforts of GRA employees.



They cautioned that such remarks could breed worker dissatisfaction, impede revenue collection, and provoke industrial unrest.



The group urged the Vice President to either recognize the significant strides made by the GRA or abstain from remarks that undermine their endeavors.



They also pointed out the inconsistency in Dr. Bawumia's position, given his leadership role in the Economic Management Team and his knowledge of the government's targets for the Authority through the Ministry of Finance.



We would like to state unequivocally that, we the workers of GRA find this statement unfortunate and consider it as an attack on the efforts of the hard-working staff of the Authority which if not discontinued, would incur the displeasure of workers, disrupt revenue collection efforts and breed industrial disharmony.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









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As a way of addressing the challenges that have engulfed the energy sector in recent times, the Flagbearer and leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has pledged to provide 2,000 megawatts of solar power.



Vice President added that, Ghanas energy sector needs an uninterrupted power supply, a success story chalked, adding that recent challenges have an overwhelming challenged on the economy.



He said, half of Ghanas electricity needs when voted into power.



He made this promise during an engagement with members of the informal sector through a forum organized by the Council of Indigenous Business Associations (CIBA).



The NPP Flagbearer in answering queries from the various groups associated with the council emphasized that this will help to make electricity affordable for all Ghanaians, leading to a reduction in electricity bills.



He explained that the 2,000 megawatts of solar power would contribute to a substantial decrease in electricity prices, benefiting everyone in the country.



In addition to the solar power initiative, Dr Bawumia promised to introduce another plan aimed at easing passport acquisition for the business community and frequent travelers.



He stated that with the support of the Ghana Card, individuals could apply for passports, make the required payment, and receive their passports without any stress.



He said, We are going to provide 2000 megawatts of solar power which is about half Ghanas consumption. The 2000 megawatts will help reduce electricity bills. Everyone is going to enjoy the benefit because it will help electricity prices come down significantly.



He added, Secondly, Im introducing another initiative, which is passport acquisition. Since youre all into business and travel a lot, the passport acquisition initiative will ensure you acquire a passport without any stress. With the support of the Ghana card, you just apply for the passport and make payment, then the passport will be ready for you.

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On Monday, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo launched the "One Student, One Tablet" initiative as part of the Ghana Smart School Project.



Speaking at the launch which was held at the Accra International Conference Center, President Akufo-Addo said "Providing tablets to our SHS students will open doors to endless opportunities. That is one student, and one tablet under the Ghana Smart Schools Project. The tablets are fitted with digital content to aid research, teaching, and learning"



The Ghana Smart School Project aims to distribute 1.3 million educational tablets to SHS students nationwide.



Former Member of Parliament for Buem constituency, Daniel Kwesi Ashiamah speaking to this asked for accountability.



Speaking on The Platform programme on Peace FM, he said Ghanaians need to know the cost of the project and how sustainable it's going to be.



Listen to him in the video below





Source: Peacefmonline.com









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YEREVAN, MARCH 27, ARMENPRESS. The Russian Federation calls on Armenia and Azerbaijan to exercise maximum restraint and avoid aggressive rhetoric, Maria Zakharova, the official spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said during a press briefing on Wednesday.

Zakharova addressed recent publications in the Armenian and Azerbaijani press that warned about possible new military escalations on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border in the near future.



"Territorial disputes and demands should be regulated in the political-diplomatic domain. This includes resolving the issue of enclaves within the framework of the bilateral commission that deals with Armenian-Azerbaijani delimitation and demarcation issues. We are ready to provide maximum assistance with our exclusive cartographic data," noted Zakharova.



According to the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, the Russian Federation does not use the term "Zangezur Corridor" in its diplomatic speech.



It concerns the route connecting the western regions of Azerbaijan with Nakhichevan through the territory of Syunik Province of Armenia,added Zakharova.



There is a well-established mechanism for developing compromises. This is a tripartite working group of deputy prime ministers of Armenia, Russia and Azerbaijan.



At the meeting held on June 2, 2023, the parties were close to adopting a comprehensive and mutually beneficial decision to unblock transport and economic routes in the region. We urge our partners to demonstrate political will and resume the tripartite negotiations," stated Zakharova.
In the aftermath of the global pandemic, nations worldwide have faced the harsh realities of economic collapse. However, Ghana shines as a beacon of resilience and stability amidst the chaos, says the Majority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.



He made these remarks during the International Knowledge Transfer Networking (IKTN) conference hosted by the University of Bradford (UK), in partnership with the British Council Ghana, yesterday in Accra. It was under the theme Responsible Leadership for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth.



Mr Afenyo-Markin emphasised the dire situations faced by many nations, including instability, insecurity, protests and economic hardships exacerbated by unemployment. He said despite these challenges, Ghana had remained relatively unscathed.



The Majority Leader attributed Ghanas stability to the visionary leadership of President Nana Akufo-Addo and the support of its resilient citizens.



Its a narrative not just about recovery but significant advancement. These businesses have not only endured but also emerged stronger, experiencing a boost in cash flow and an impressive 4.2% increase in nominal sales from 2021 to 2022, he said.



Moreover, he mentioned that the engagement with European firms had led to a notable 11% rise in sales, illustrating the power of international cooperation.



Role of UK high education



He stressed the essential role that UK higher education institutions play in nurturing leaders capable of addressing the challenges of increasingly complex world.



As Ghana strives to deepen the quality of its higher education, partnerships with UK institutions offer invaluable opportunities for knowledge exchange, capacity building, he said.



He added that it would lead to the development of a new generation of leaders equipped with the skills, values and vision to drive sustainable development and positive change in Ghana and beyond. He emphasised that governments goal is to nurture a generation equipped for Ghanas economic and social advancement.



Recognizing challenges in access, equity, and quality, weve embarked on initiatives to elevate our tertiary education system. This includes upgrading teacher education, embracing international partnerships, and preparing our graduates for the global job market, he mentioned.



The engagement



For his part, an Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor, Global Engagement and Partnerships at the University of Bradford, Professor Vishanth Weerakkody, said for many years, the University of Bradford had been actively involved in knowledge transfer networking events within the UK, engaging with local stakeholders such as businesses, non-governmental organizations, charities, and community members in Bradford and West Yorkshire.



He explained that the event in Accra represented the universitys first foray into organizing such an initiative on an international scale.



He reaffirmed the universitys commitment to educating young populations about the various education programmes offered at the University of Bradford. He mentioned the availability of numerous scholarships and highlighted the universitys leading position in applied arts and artificial intelligence (AI) in the UK.



AI plays a pivotal role in international development, particularly in driving digitization and economic growth. At our university, we are at the forefront of AI research and education, he indicated.

He emphasised the universitys leadership in the fields of social economics and sustainability, areas critical for addressing contemporary global challenges.



Well prepare our young populations for the evolving job markets, both at the global and regional levels. Our aim is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of these topics and equip them with the necessary skills to thrive in todays dynamic world, he added.



Inclusivity



Dr. Joseph Kwadwo Danquah, Assistant Professor of Human Capital Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Bradford University, emphasised the importance of inclusivity in national development.



He noted that leaving anyone behind would be detrimental to progress, saying inclusivity is very critical; we cannot as a country leave anybody behind.



He emphasised the need to include all demographics, including men, women and children, in development efforts. Supporting his argument with data from the World Bank, Dr. Danquah noted that the statistics clearly indicated the government was on the right trajectory.



He expressed the hope that responsible leadership would continue to guide the country towards achieving its development goals.





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The girlfriend of 19-year-old Elliot Corbin III, who was shot and killed in Lancaster on Jan. 6, enlisted the help of her cousin and her cousins girlfriend in her boyfriends slaying, the Lancaster County District Attorneys Office said in a Wednesday release.

Tajhon Veal, 20; Joy Cleveland, 19; and Jalani Morales, 19, all of Lancaster, face charges in the fatal shooting, the Lancaster County District Attorneys Office said.

During a preliminary hearing on Tuesday, Lancaster City Bureau of Police lead Detective Jared Snader testified that Cleveland and Corbin III, who were in a relationship at the time of the killing, had an argument on Jan. 6 before parting ways.
Police in Lebanon responded to a shooting on Tuesday evening, just hours after a police incident closed several streets and prompted school lockdowns several blocks away.

Officers were sent to the 300 block of Cumberland Street around 6 p.m. after receiving reports of shots fired in the area. When police arrived they said a victim, who suffered a gunshot wound, and the suspect were inside a Family Dollar store on the block, the press release said.
WILLIAMSPORT  The accused shooter in a Williamsport double homicide will have to wait to learn if he will stand trial on charges he used his sons Social Security number to obtain employment and benefits.

Lycoming County District Judge Christian D. Frey reserved his decision following a preliminary hearing Tuesday for Troy Bennett Bailey, Sr. 57, of Williamsport, so he can research a legal issue related to identity theft.

To be found guilty of that charge, the prosecution must prove the accused used identifying information of another without consent.
A man accused of firing a gun inside a Family Dollar store in Lebanon on Tuesday had accused the victim of talking badly about his mother, court documents show.

Whatd you say about my momma? Octavius O. Burrus, 22, asked another man around 6 p.m. inside the Family Dollar store on the 300 block of Cumberland Street in Lebanon, according to an affidavit of probable cause. Burrus then repeated the question, the affidavit said.
Three people have been charged after a 6-month-old baby was left alone in a locked and darkened daycare facility in Philadelphia earlier this year.

Sydia Thomas, 23, Gabriela Rivas, 35, and Janae Smith, 22, have all been charged with endangering the welfare of children and conspiracy, according to NBC10 and 6ABC.

On Feb. 1, police responded to a call, after the childs parents arrived at New Arisens Day Care and saw the building was closed and locked.

Jessy Flores and Camron Banks told 6ABC and NBC10 that they had arrived at the facility at 5:30, a half-hour before the center was supposed to close.

The fire department and police were able to lift the gate, get in the building and locate the child, who had been left alone, strapped to a car seat, in the dark. The baby was a little dehydrated but otherwise OK, NBC10 said.

Fores told NBC10 that the daycares owner apologized to her that night but didnt provide an explanation for what happened.

Nobody knew when she last ate, Flores said. Nobody knew when she was changed. Nobody knew who she was with.

NBC10 said that the daycare was in compliance and had no violations on file over the past five years.
LONDON (AP)  Bruce Springsteen is the first international songwriter to be named a fellow of The Ivors Academy, the U.Ks professional association of music creators.

The American icon was announced as the next recipient of the 80-year old Academys highest honor Tuesday, in recognition of the impact his career has had on the cultural landscape of the U.K.

Over the last half century, the Born to Run musician has sold more than 140 million records worldwide  from his 1973 debut Greetings from Asbury Park, NJ to his most recent studio album Only the Strong Survive in 2022  with a liberal dusting of top honors along the way, including 20 Grammys, an Oscar and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Springsteen, 74, said he was proud of the honor in a statement released by the academy. In addition to recognising my songwriting, the award stands as a tribute to the fans and friends who have supported me and my work for the last fifty years. This entire country has made me feel welcome every step of the way, and for this, I will always remain deeply appreciative.

The news comes a week after Springsteens triumphant return to the stage with the E Street Band in Phoenix for a nearly three-hour set.

Springsteen announced in September he was pausing his tour, citing doctors advice as he recovered from peptic ulcer disease.

Springsteen will receive his newest award at The Ivors ceremony at Grovesnor House in London on May 23, where the winner of the 2024 Ivor Novello will also be announced. Nominees for the prestigious songwriting prize will be announced by the not-for-profit organization on Apr. 23.

Springsteen becomes the 27th Fellow of the Academy, joining previously inducted songwriting icons like Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, Joan Armatrading and Sting. While he will be the sole songwriter to hail from outside Britain, the fellowship also includes American composer John Adams and French composer and conductor Pierre Boulez.
All six workers missing after a Baltimore bridge collapsed Tuesday are presumed dead and the search for them has been suspended until Wednesday morning, authorities said.

Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent for Maryland State Police, said Tuesday evening that the search and rescue mission was transitioning to one of search and recovery. He said divers would return to the site at 6 a.m. Wednesday when challenging overnight conditions were expected to improve.

The six people who remained unaccounted for after the bridge collapse were part of a construction crew repairing potholes on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when a cargo ship lost power and rammed the bridge early Tuesday, destroying the span in a matter of seconds.

A fellow construction company employee says he was told his missing co-workers were on a break and some were sitting in their trucks when the bridge collapsed.

Brawner Builders employee Jesus Campos says he learned about the disaster from a co-worker and immediately worried about colleagues he knew were working on the bridge.

When he told me that, they came to mind and I was praying to God that nothing had happened to them, Campos said, speaking in Spanish.

It is so hard for me to describe. I know that a month ago I was there, and I know what it feels like when the trailers pass. Imagine knowing that it is falling. It is so hard, one would not know what to do, Campos said.

Jeffrey Pritzker, the companys executive vice president, said six workers are presumed dead. Campos says the workers ranged in age from about 30 to 45 and all had families.

Radio traffic obtained from the Broadcastify.com archive indicates police officers were just about to alert the crew to the danger when the ship struck thebridge.

The Maryland Transportation Authority first responder radio traffic includes a dispatcher putting out a call saying a ship had lost its steering ability and asking officers to stop all traffic. It took officers less than two minutes to stop traffic on the bridge.

One officer who had stopped traffic radioed that he was going to drive onto the bridge to notify the construction crew once a second officer arrived. But seconds later, a frantic officer radioed that the bridge had collapsed.
NEW YORK (AP)  Former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCains running mate eight years later, has died, according to a statement issued by his family.

Lieberman died in New York City on Wednesday due to complications from a fall, the statement said. He was 82.

The Democrat-turned-independent was never shy about veering from the party line.

Liebermans independent streak and especially his needling of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential contest rankled many Democrats, the party he aligned with in the Senate. Yet his support for gay rights, civil rights, abortion rights and environmental causes at times won him the praise of many liberals over the years.

Lieberman came tantalizingly close to winning the vice presidency in the contentious 2000 presidential contest that was decided by a 537-vote margin victory for George W. Bush in Florida after a drawn-out recount, legal challenges and a Supreme Court decision. He was the first Jewish candidate on a major partys presidential ticket and would have been the first Jewish vice president.

He was also the first national Democrat to publicly criticize President Bill Clinton for his extramarital affair with a White House intern.

Lieberman sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 but dropped out after a weak showing in the early primaries. Four years later, he was an independent who was nearly chosen to be McCains running mate. He and McCain were close pals who shared hawkish views on military and national security matters.

McCain was leaning strongly toward choosing Lieberman for the ticket as the 2008 GOP convention neared, but he chose Sarah Palin at the last minute after ferocious blowback from conservatives over Liebermans liberal record, according to Steve Schmidt, who managed McCains campaign.

FILE - Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Al Gore, left, and his running mate, vice presidential candidate Sen. Joe Lieberman, of Connecticut, wave to supporters at a campaign rally in Jackson, Tennessee, Oct. 25, 2000. (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia, File)AP

Lieberman generated controversy in 1998 when he scolded Clinton, his friend of many years, for disgraceful behavior in an explosive speech on the Senate floor during the height of the scandal over his relationship with Monica Lewinsky. Yet Lieberman later voted against the impeachment of Clinton.

He defended his partisan switches as a matter of conscience, saying he always had the best interests of Connecticut voters at heart. Critics accused him of pursuing narrow self-interest and political expediency.

In announcing his retirement from the Senate in 2013, Lieberman acknowledged that he did not always fit comfortably into conventional political boxes and felt his first responsibility was to serve his constituents, state and country, not his political party. He had a tortured relationship with Democrats.

During his final Senate speech, Lieberman urged Congress to look beyond party lines and partisan rancor to break Washington gridlock.

It requires reaching across the aisle and finding partners from the opposite party, said Lieberman. That is what is desperately needed in Washington now.

Harry Reid, who served as Senate Democratic leader, once said that while he didnt always agree with the independent-minded Lieberman, he respected him.

Regardless of our differences, I have never doubted Joe Liebermans principles or his patriotism, Reid said. And I respect his independent streak, as it stems from strong convictions.

Privately, some Democrats were often less charitable about Liebermans forays across party lines, which they saw as disloyal. He bolted his party and turned independent after a 2006 Senate primary loss in Connecticut.

Liebermans strong support of the Iraq War hurt his statewide popularity. Democrats rejected Lieberman and handed the 2006 primary to a political newcomer and an anti-war candidate, Ned Lamont.

FILE - Former Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman waves to members of the media as he leaves the West Wing of the White House in Washington, May 17, 2017. Lieberman, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died Wednesday, March 27, 2024, according to a statement issued by his family. He was 82. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File)AP

Defying Democratic leaders and friends, Lieberman ran successfully for reelection as an independent and drew support from some Republican allies. Lieberman won praise from the White House and fundraising help from prominent Republicans, such as then-New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg, who himself later ran as an independent.

Lieberman made his Senate experience and congressional clout a strong selling point, saying hed fight hard for the states defense jobs and its fair share of federal largesse. The strategy paid off.

Lieberman won reelection to a fourth term, even though many of his Democratic allies and longtime friends, including former Sen. Chris Dodd, supported Lamont. Lieberman was candid about what he considered a betrayal by old pals such as Dodd, but the two men later reconciled.

After his rebound reelection in 2006, Lieberman decided to caucus with Democrats in the Senate, who let him head a committee in return because they needed his vote to help keep control of the closely divided chamber. But it wasnt long until Lieberman was showing his independent streak and ruffling his Democratic caucus colleagues.

Despite the decision of Democrats to let him join their caucus as an independent, Lieberman was an enthusiastic backer of McCain in the 2008 presidential contest.

Liebermans speech at the 2008 GOP presidential nominating convention criticizing Obama, the Democratic presidential nominee, struck a deep nerve with many Democrats.

Lieberman cast Obama as a political show horse, a lightweight with a thin record of accomplishment in the Senate despite his soaring eloquence as a speaker.

In the Senate, during the 3 1/2 years that Sen. Obama has been a member, he has not reached across party lines to ... accomplish anything significant, nor has he been willing to take on powerful interest groups in the Democratic Party to get something done, Lieberman said at the convention.

Eloquence is no substitute for a record, he said.

Lieberman campaigned heartily across the country for McCain. Many Democrats considered it a betrayal to Obama and his former party colleagues.

Joe Lieberman has said things that are totally irresponsible when it comes to Barack Obama, House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of California said in a radio interview during the 2008 race.

After the election, there was speculation Senate Democrats might strip Lieberman of his chairmanship of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as payback. Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., chair of the Judiciary Committee, was among those who said Lieberman should lose his chairmanship. Leahy branded Liebermans attacks on Obama as beyond the pale.

But at Obamas urging, Senate Democrats decided not to punish Lieberman for supporting McCain and the GOP ticket. Obama was eager to strike a bipartisan tone for his presidency and giving Lieberman a pass helped reinforce that message.

Yet Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent and staunch liberal, called it a slap in the face for millions of Americans who backed Obama.

Lieberman was known in the Senate for his hawkish foreign policy views, his pro-defense bent and his strong support for environmental causes.

Five weeks after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, he became one of the first politicians to call for the ouster of Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein and later voted in favor of the military invasion of Iraq. His vocal support for the war would later help doom his candidacy in the 2006 Connecticut Democratic primary.

FILE - No Labels leadership and guests from left, Dan Webb, National Co-Chair Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, and founding Chairman and former Sen. Joe Lieberman, speak about the 2024 election at National Press Club, in Washington, Jan. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)AP

Lieberman tended to vote with Democrats on most issues and was a longtime supporter of abortion rights, a stance that would have proved problematic with conservatives had McCain chosen him as his running mate in 2008.

He played a key role in the legislation that created the Department of Homeland Security.

Lieberman grew up in Stamford, Connecticut, where his father ran a liquor store. Lieberman graduated from Yale University and Yale Law School in New Haven As Connecticuts attorney general from 1983 to 1988, he was a strong consumer and environmental advocate. Lieberman vaulted into the Senate by defeating moderate Republican incumbent Lowell Weicker in 1988.

After leaving the Senate in 2013, Lieberman joined a New York City law firm.

Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, have four children.

Former Associated Press writer Andrew Miga contributed to this report.
NBC has cut ties with former RNC head Ronna McDaniel after employee objections, some on the air

By David Bauder, The Associated Press

NEW YORK  NBC News cut ties Tuesday with former Republican National Committee chief Ronna McDaniel less than a week after hiring her as an on-air political contributor, a decision that followed a furious protest by some of its journalists and commentators.

In announcing the decision in a memo, NBC Universal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde apologized to staff members who felt let down by the hire, acknowledging he had signed off on it.

No organization, particularly a newsroom, can succeed unless it is cohesive and aligned. Over the last few days, it has become clear that this appointment undermines that goal, Conde said. But he said the network remained committed to centering voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum.

FILE - Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel arrives on stage before House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy of Calif., speaks at an event Nov. 9, 2022, in Washington. McDaniel says she will leave her post on March 8. She's leaving the GOPs national leadership as Donald Trump moves toward another presidential nomination and asserts new control over the party. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)AP

There was no immediate comment from McDaniel, who stepped down as RNC leader just over two weeks ago. She found out she lost her job through media reports, not from NBC directly, said a person close to her who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak about it publicly.

A QUICK CHANGE OF HEART

NBC announced Friday that McDaniel would contribute commentary across network platforms. It said it wanted the perspective of someone with inside knowledge about the Republican Party and former President Donald Trump heading into the 2024 election, in which Trump is seeking a second term.

The response from journalists and others within the network was swift  and public. Former Meet the Press moderator Chuck Todd criticized his bosses on the air Sunday for the hire, saying he didnt know what to believe from her after she supported former President Donald Trump in gaslighting and character assassination following the 2020 election.

An extraordinary succession of MSNBC hosts  Joe Scarborough, Rachel Maddow, Joy Reid, Nicolle Wallace, Jen Psaki and Lawrence ODonnell  all publicly protested the decision to hire McDaniel on their shows Monday.

Republicans countered that the protest indicates that people at NBC News, particularly at MSNBC, were unwilling to countenance opposing viewpoints. The hiring, and quick firing, represents one of those rare instances likely to unite the left and right  in anger.

NBC caving in to the censors, Elon Musk, owner of X, formerly Twitter, posted on his platform.

On his Truth Social site, Trump said, These Radical Left Lunatics are CRAZY, and the top people at NBC ARE WEAK.

Those who protested her hiring claimed that it wasnt because McDaniel is a Republican, but it was because she helped promote Trumps lies about the 2020 presidential election and assisted in efforts to overturn the results.

HIRING POLITICIANS TO COMMENT ON THE NEWS HAS A HISTORY

Efforts by news organizations to hire former politicians is hardly new. NBC News hired Psaki directly from her job as press secretary to President Joe Biden, and another former Republican National Committee chairman, Michael Steele, hosts a weekend show on MSNBC.

But there are concerns that the McDaniel episode may make it difficult for networks to find voices this year that can provide insight into Trump and his campaign. Former Trump chief of staff Reince Priebius is an ABC News contributor and Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former White House communications director during the Trump administration, is a CNN commentator.

Conde said that NBC News remains committed to the principle that there must be diverse voices on the network. And to that end, we will redouble our efforts to seek voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum.

McDaniels tenure at NBC may have lasted less than a week, but a mess surrounding it could last much longer. She was dropped Tuesday by Creative Artists Agency, who she hired to negotiate her TV deal, and has been consulting with lawyers since learning that deal had ended.

The succession of MSNBC stars who denounced McDaniel and the hiring reached its apogee during the weekly show by Maddow, the networks most popular personality. She spent nearly half an hour on the issue, drawing a comparison between crackpot efforts by authoritarians to gain power in the U.S., and the GOP backing of Trump under McDaniels leadership. She called her hiring by NBC News inexplicable, comparing it to a mobster being given a position in a district attorneys office.

Maddow appeared Tuesday on Reids show. Reid said she was grateful for the decision to oust McDaniel, and Maddow echoed that.

To see essentially the unanimous feeling among all the journalists ... and all of the senior staff and producers and everybody in this building about this was one thing, she said. Then to see the executives and the leadership hear that and respond to it and be willing to change course ... I have deep respect for that.

David Bauder writes about media for The Associated Press. Follow him at http://twitter.com/dbauder
YEREVAN, MARCH 27, ARMENPRESS. The high-level meeting scheduled for April 5 in Brussels will be dedicated to strengthening Armenia-EU-US cooperation and is not and could not be directed against any third party, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ani Badalyan said in response to Armenpress question.

The interview with Ani Badalyan is presented below:

- The Azerbaijani side, referring to the upcoming Armenia-EU-USA meeting, notes that it is not inclusive, and could also induce Armenia to destabilize the situation in the region.



- The high-level meeting of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan scheduled for April 5 in Brussels will be dedicated to strengthening cooperation between Armenia, the EU, and the US. It is not and could not be directed against any third party.



As for Azerbaijan's accusations of destabilizing the situation in the region and the lack of constructivness from the Armenian side in the negotiation process, let me once again confirm that based on the principles already agreed upon with Azerbaijan, Armenia is ready to immediately sign a peace treaty, conduct border demarcation, and open regional communications. We are referring to the following three principles.



Principle 1: Armenia and Azerbaijan mutually recognize each others sovereignty and territorial integrity based on the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration. This principle was agreed between Armenia and Azerbaijan on October 6, 2022 in Prague, through the mediation of French President Emmanuel Macron and EU Council President Charles Michel, then reaffirmed on May 14, 2023 and July 15, 2023 in Brussels through the mediation of EU Council President Charles Michel.



Principle 2: Armenia and Azerbaijan reaffirm their unconditional commitment to the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration as the political basis for the border demarcation.



This principle was agreed upon by Armenia and Azerbaijan on October 6, 2022, in Prague, with the mediation of French President Emmanuel Macron and EU Council President Charles Michel. It was then reaffirmed on May 14 and July 15, 2023, in Brussels with the mediation of EU Council President Charles Michel.



This means that a new border between Armenia and Azerbaijan should not be created, but the borders that existed de jure within the framework of the USSR at the time of the adoption of the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration should be reproduced on the ground. After redrawing the border, de jure territories belonging to each country must be under that countrys control.

Principle 3: Regional communications should be opened on the basis of the principle of sovereignty and jurisdiction of countries, within the framework of equality and reciprocity.



This principle was agreed between Armenia and Azerbaijan on July 15, 2023 in Brussels through the mediation of the President of the European Council Charles Michel. Regarding the issue, the Republic of Armenia has expressed its willingness in the "Crossroads of Peace" project, which has been widely accepted by the international community.



Unfortunately, the Azerbaijani side is delaying and undermining the peace process under various artificial pretexts, including constantly rejecting mediation proposals from the EU and the United States. Instead of complaining about inclusiveness, Azerbaijan might eventually consider accepting proposals for a meeting at the level of foreign ministers in Washington and at the level of heads of state in Brussels. It is also worth mentioning Azerbaijan's ongoing actions, such as attempts to exclude Armenia from regional projects and their efforts to undermine the principle of inclusivity. A vivid example of this is their obstruction of Armenias participation in the Black Sea Electric Cable project.



- The Azerbaijani side has once again expressed its displeasure regarding the EU monitoring mission in Armenia. What do you think about this?



- It is important to assess the security situation in which the EU mission was deployed. This followed a large-scale attack and occupation of the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia by Azerbaijan in September 2022. Even today, approximately 208 square kilometers of the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia are under the occupation of Azerbaijan. We highly appreciate the role of the EU monitoring mission in curbing ambitions to use force in the region and strengthening stability on the Armenia-Azerbaijan interstate border.



We also welcome the EU's decision made several months ago, regarding the increase in the number of mission members. It is also appropriate to remind that during the quadrilateral meeting held in Prague on October 6, 2022, Azerbaijan itself welcomed the proposal of the President of the European Council and the President of France to deploy an EU observation mission not only in Armenia but also in Azerbaijan. Unfortunately, Azerbaijan later abandoned that position.



- What are the expectations of the Armenian side from the upcoming high-level meeting between Armenia, the USA, and the EU on April 5?



- The meeting is a valuable opportunity to discuss the bilateral agendas between Armenia and the US, Armenia and the EU, as well as issues related to Armenia-US-EU relations. We expect substantive discussions on political dialogue, the development of Armenias capabilities in the economic and energy spheres, and solutions to the humanitarian problems facing Armenia. The high-level meeting is aimed at developing and deepening existing relations and is not associated with any third countries. Claims that it is directed against anyone are irrelevant, baseless, and artificial.
Puerto Rico has seen a sharp increase in dengue fever cases.

The infection has been on the rise in many regions of Central and South America, pushing Puerto Rico to declare a public health emergency.

Puerto Rican officials revealed Monday that nearly 550 cases of dengue fever have been reported this year so far, with more than 340 people hospitalized due to the illness.

As of March 21, 2024, the Department of Healths epidemiological surveillance of diseases has observed a 140% increase in dengue cases compared to the same period last year, reads a department release.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus is spread through mosquito bites. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and fevers, and most people are expected to recover after about a week or so.

More severe cases, however, may result in shock, internal bleeding, and even death, says the CDC.

The CDC continues to note that there is no specific medicinal treatment of dengue, although there is a vaccine to protect against infection.

The last time Puerto Rico declared a dengue epidemic was in 2012. Almost 1,300 cases were confirmed in the United States territory in all of 2023.

USA Today notes that the CDC issued a Level 1 travel warning in February to American travelers regarding dengue cases abroad. Below are the countries witnessing a rise in dengue cases:

Argentina

Brazil

Colombia

Costa Rica

French Guiana

Guadeloupe

Guatemala

Haiti

Jamaica

Martinique

Mexico

Nicaragua

Panama

Paraguay

Peru

Saint Barthelemy

Saint Martin

Turks and Caicos Islands

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Pennsylvanias crime commission has given out $2 million to dozens of police departments since a grant program began last year to help with officer recruitment and retention, the Shapiro administration announced Wednesday, as agencies continued to describe a sea change in the law enforcement labor market.

Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, who chairs the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), said at a press event the commission has thus far awarded grants to 51 law enforcement agencies across the state, including in York and Dauphin counties, helping to recruit or retain over 400 officers.
The state House on Wednesday passed a bill to crack down on ghost guns by requiring that serial numbers be placed on home-built firearms.

The bill cleared the House 104-to-97, with all but one Democrat and three Republicans in support.

The measure faces long odds in the GOP-controlled Senate, whose leadership has said it is not interested in further gun regulation, even as House Democrats continue to push new firearms rules.
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 on any of your favorite apps including Alexa, Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and YouTube. 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 | March 27, 2024

One county is part of several thats suing Big Oil. This legislation seeks to install panic buttons in schools across the state. Pennsylvanias last private mountain is now public. Lastly, one of the most iconic things to come out of Pennsylvania may get an official designation.

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.
Two different groups sympathetic to Palestinians in Gaza are calling on Pennsylvania Democrats to send a message to President Joe Biden in the primary by writing in Uncommitted or No Joe.

Rabiul Chowdhury, co-chairman of Abandon Biden Pennsylvania, told PennLive on Wednesday before his group held a press conference in Philadelphia that they are asking voters to write-in No Joe or Ceasefire Now.
Other states might have a problem with immigrants, but Pennsylvania isnt one of them. Our state is benefitting significantly from new immigrants hailing from throughout the world. In fact, we need more of them.

The International Womens Conference and Fashion show held last Saturday at the Civic Club of Harrisburg showed just how internationally diverse Central Pennsylvania has become, and what their dynamism and creativity can bring.
Legislation that would ban handheld electronic devices while driving is advancing in the General Assembly.

The House Transportation Committee on Tuesday voted 19-6 to approve a version of a Senate-passed bill that would combat distracted driving by making use of a cell phone or other interactive electronic device while driving a primary  or stoppable  offense.
Legislation that would help to ease state inmates transition into society and give them an opportunity to get out sooner, won passage in the state House of Representatives on Wednesday.

One bill would require the state to assist inmates in obtaining identification before leaving prison and another would allow inmates to earn vocational and education credits to make them eligible for parole sooner.
If you believe that the cost of living is kicking our butts, billionaires shouldn't exist, student loan debt sucks or wages are absurdly stagnant then a weekly newsletter about student loan debt and economic justice might just be for you. Enter your email to subscribe.

Restricting diversity, equity and inclusion programs on college campuses is hot, so much so that 81 anti-DEI bills have been proposed since 2023.

From Florida whose anti-DEI bills expand on its Stop WOKE Act to Alabamas new law prohibiting indoctrination of certain beliefs about race, class, gender or sexuality, 11 of these bills throughout the country are now law, affecting higher learning institutions in nine states.

DEI programs recruit and retain BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and other underrepresented faculty and students to repair decades of discriminatory policies and practices that excluded them from higher education, Leah Watson, a senior attorney for the ACLU wrote in a statement.

According to a tally by the Chronicle of Higher Education , anti-DEI bills targeting college programs have been introduced in 28 states and in Congress since the start of 2023.

Anti-DEI laws sweeping the country will largely impact all parts of how colleges and universities function, including faculty hiring and curriculum to on-campus student organizations and programs that will face restrictions or elimination if they focus on race, color, sex, national origin, gender identity or sexual orientation.

With new anti-DEI laws taking effect daily, Reckon has broken down how these nine states anti-DEI legislation will impact colleges and universities.

Florida

While Florida signed two anti-DEI bills into law last May, public colleges and universities are now facing the effects of the legislation.

The first law prohibits colleges and universities from requiring the completion of a political loyalty test or for persons to meet certain qualifications based on race or ethnicity. The legislation bars schools from asking current or would-be employees to state support for the idea that the nations systems and institutions are racist, oppressive or otherwise unjust.

One of Floridas most popular passed anti-DEI bills, the Higher Education Censorship and Government Control bill, is not only being called as an expansion of the Stop WOKE Act but the NAACP also cited it as a reason why Black student-athletes should reconsider attending Florida colleges and universities.

The Higher Education Censorship and Government Control bill dictates curriculum, creates education requirements prioritizing neoclassical education focused on Western European civilization and prohibits fields of study involving race and gender studies, as well as the use of state funds for any DEI programs. Earlier this month, the University of Florida closed its Office of the Chief Diversity Officer, eliminating 13 full-time DEI positions and 15 administrative appointments.

North Carolina

In North Carolina, an anti-DEI bill took effect in December targeting anti-bias training for state employees. The new law banned state agencies, ranging from the prison system to public colleges and universities, from asking employees or prospective hires to state their opinions  or take any action  regarding matters of contemporary political debate or social action.

This bill was vetoed by North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, who said the legislation attempts to eliminate training that can help us understand the unconscious bias we all bring to our work and our communities. But later the North Carolina General Assembly overrode the governors veto.

Alabama

While Alabama introduced two anti-DEI bills, only one passed and went on to be signed into law by Gov. Kay Ivey, a Republican.

Earlier this month, the state of Alabama enacted a  no indoctrination  bill that would prohibit public colleges and universities from sponsor[ing] any DEI programs, defined as any program where participation is determined based on identity group.

While this law has not taken effect, experts say it could ban recognition or funding for Black student unions at public universities, including at Alabamas eight public HBCUs.

Tennessee

Tennessee enacted a bill last May that prohibits any public institution of higher education, local education agency, public charter school, the state board of education and the Department of Education from requiring an educator, faculty member or employee of a public institution of higher education to complete or participate in implicit bias training.

While the new law hasnt taken effect yet, it will prohibit adverse licensure and employment actions from being taken against such an individual for the individuals failure or refusal to participate in implicit bias training.

Texas

Since 2022, Texas lawmakers have introduced seven anti-DEI bills but only two have been signed into law.

Passed as a part of Texas statewide 2024-25 budget, one anti-DEI law bans colleges and universities from spending state-appropriated funds on DEI efforts, programs and training that do not comply with sections of the state constitution regarding equality under the law based on characteristics such as sex and race. This law has not gone into effect.

In 2023, Texas also enacted a bill that requires a public colleges and universities board of trustees to approve the hiring of top administrators as well as core courses and job postings. The board of trustees must also submit an annual report confirming that the institution does not require diversity statements or has a DEI office or any DEI employees.

Utah

While Utah lawmakers tried to pass four anti-DEI bills between 2023 and 2024, only one was successful.

The states new law will take effect on July 1, 2024, and requires all public colleges and universities, public K-12 schools and any government institution with DEI programs in Utah to change their DEI programs to focus on general student success and support.

The bill prohibits offices from engaging in differential treatment or preference based on race or gender and prohibits colleges from requiring a student or employee to participate in training or developing offices that promote differential treatment based on a persons race, sex, color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion or gender identity.

Indiana

Indianas Higher Education Bill passed into law on March 13, 2024, requiring the boards of trustees over public colleges and universities to establish policies where faculty members can not receive tenure or promotions if they have not encouraged free expression and intellectual diversity, or teaches students political views unrelated to their discipline.

The new bill amends an existing law by requiring public colleges and university boards diversity committees to make recommendations to promote recruitment and retention of underrepresented students, with the word underrepresented replacing the word minority in the current law.

North Dakota

North Dakota enacted a Specified Concepts anti-DEI bill that went into effect last August.

This new law has banned mandatory diversity training and the use of diversity statements in hiring at public colleges and universities. The Specified Concepts anti-DEI bill also prevents higher learning institutions from asking about the ideological or political viewpoint of students, prospective employees or those being considered for a promotion or tenure.

Wyoming

As a part of a budget amendment this month, the state of Wyoming decided to stop state appropriations for any DEI program, activity, or function at the University of Wyoming.
By Amir Said

New Canadian Media

In a turbulent time for Canadian politics, one name keeps popping up nationwide: Naheed Nenshi. After years out of the limelight, many headlines and front pages across the country currently bear his name.

On March 11, the former mayor of Calgary sent ripples through the Canadian political world by announcing that he would be running to succeed Rachel Notley as the next leader of the Alberta NDP.

Hes seeking the top seat in the largest official opposition in Albertas history, but thats not where his ambition ends: hes looking to become premier and put an end to the provinces almost uninterrupted Conservative dynasty.

As a newcomer to the Alberta NDP, he certainly faces opposition in getting the job: four of the candidates are sitting MLAs, Jodi Calahoo Stonehouse, Sarah Hoffman, Kathleen Ganley and Rakhi Pancholi. Edmonton-based Alberta Federation of Labour president and longtime NDP member Gil McGowan is also running. The party announced its final list of candidates on Friday night.

Having endorsed the Alberta NDP for the first time during the 2023 provincial election, Nenshi set aside his nonpartisanship and threw his hat in the ring to make meaningful change in the province.

However, there are many problems Nenshi wants to address in Alberta besides just the incumbent government: according to Nenshi, theres a long road ahead when it comes to multiculturalism in Canada.

We succeeded because of public services for the kids: great public education, universities, the ability to really live a great life here, Nenshi said in an exclusive interview with New Canadian Media, and thats my story, right?

Most people familiar with Nenshi know his story: he was born to Indian parents from Tanzania, earned his masters degree from Harvard, was the first Muslim mayor of a Canadian city and held the position from 2010-2021.

In the past, I was a little hesitant to talk a lot about my background because I didnt want to make it feel like exceptionalism, said Nenshi. What I always used to say is that the story of me and my family is extraordinary in its details, but what makes it extraordinary is how ordinary it is.

Nenshi proudly stated that he is as old as Canadian multiculturalism: he was born less than five months before then Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeaus 1971 declaration that Canada was a multicultural country. Nenshi got to witness Canadian multiculturalism grow firsthand, especially through the lens of his own second-generation Canadian success story of being ranked the second-most influential person in Canada in 2013 and receiving the 2014 World Mayor Prize, among numerous other accolades.

Now, Nenshi says the topic has grown beyond just multiculturalism: he says Canada needs to find a way forward and achieve anti-racism in order for multiculturalism to truly succeed.

After the murder of George Floyd in 2020, then-mayor Nenshi and his team invited Calgarians who wanted to talk about their experiences with racism at a public meeting of council. At that meeting, he says he was not at all surprised by the stories of bigotry and persecution that he heard, but what he was surprised by was the fact that racism has been so prevalent in Canada for so long.

How is it that a young Black man telling his experience of how he gets harassed when he wants to go out with his friends on a Saturday night is exactly the same stories that my friends and I used to tell each other when I was young?

Nenshi says real action needs to take place to preserve multiculturalism and truly achieve anti-racism in Canada.

Even though were so proud of this multicultural country that weve built, and I am proud of it  I thought at the same time, how did we not progress in these ways over the last 30 years? For me, that was very challenging because I was thinking in my head, how can I simultaneously be very proud of what we built but understand that weve got a lot of work to do to become truly antiracist?

One of the reasons he decided to run for leadership of the Alberta NDP was due to prevalent social issues such as the incumbent governments anti-trans legislation. However, he says the government is not the only source of those problematic views.

You know, it really bothers me as a Muslim when I see my fellow Muslims speaking out against the human rights of other people, said Nenshi, adding that if Muslims are seen as being intolerant of others, then what incentive is there for others to be tolerant of Muslims?

Nenshi says views like these only serve to contribute to negative perceptions of immigrants and multiculturalism and in turn work against the desired outcome of ending racism.

As leader of the Alberta NDP, which promotes equity, diversity and inclusion, Nenshis aim would be to represent all Albertans, including fighting against inequality and bigotry whether that be racism or other forms of bigotry.

These are hard conversations, said Nenshi, and sometimes only racialized people can start these conversations with other racialized people.

But these are conversations that have to be held because we have to do a better job. Otherwise, were gonna find that the multiculturalism of which we are so proud, and about which we are so smug, will collapse around us.

Five other people have put their names forward to replace Notley: Rakhi Pancholi the MLA for Edmonton-Whitemud, Sarah Hoffman of Edmonton-Glenora, Kathleen Ganley of Calgary-Mountain View, and Jodi Calahoo Stonehouse of Edmonton-Rutherford and Union leader Gil McGowan.
Apprentice tradies have been told to push through low wages during training and keep honing their craft as Australia faces a massive shortage in numbers.

As many struggle with the cost-of-living crisis, some first-year apprentices are on salaries below minimum wage and even qualified tradies say the pay isnt worth it.

More than 50,000 tradies and apprentices have quit or dropped out since 2022 and an extra 90,000 construction workers are needed in the next few months to ensure the government stays on track to deliver a promised 1.2 million homes in half a decade.

Builder Scott Challen says apprentice tradies need to push through the difficult first few years because the industry is struggling. (Source: TikTok/Getty)

Are you struggling during your apprenticeship? Email stew.perrie@yahooinc.com

Veteran builder Scott Challen told Yahoo Finance there were many reasons the industry had seen such a massive exodus, but he said these young workers needed to harden up.

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[Its] a different generation that kids are brought up a different way with a different outlook on things, he said.

You can't yell at these apprentices. You can't say, 'Hurry the f**k up  I'm standing up a ladder and I need you to get your s**t together'. You can't talk to them like that. You've got to check in with them constantly [and] check their feelings.

Challen, who has been in the industry for 15 years and is the CEO of building and home-improvement company The QHI Group, said many of these young apprentices hadnt played footy on the weekend or climbed trees. He reckons this contributes to their professional outlook.

He said not only were wannabe tradies distracted by a lot more technology than was available back in his day, but they also hadnt been told about the when the going gets tough, the tough get going mentality.

A lot of people haven't had a male mentor figure around them to teach them to push through when it gets tough, Challen told Yahoo Finance. So they buckle and crumble. Your apprenticeships really now are about mentor and guiding these kids as best you can so that they don't quit.

Story continues

National disaster

The veteran builder has warned the industry is facing a perfect storm at the moment due to low tradie numbers and increased red tape from local councils.

Those [Baby] Boomer builders that were in the business, theyve all pulled the pin and left. So those guys are out, theyve all retired, he said.

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The older Gen Xs that were builders, they went, You know what, this is really difficult to make a living right now because supply chains are stretched and there's no labour available.

"There's only 238,000 apprentices in the whole country and we lost 50,000 in 12 months.

That's a national disaster.

"We're only seeing the tip of the iceberg right now. This is the Titanic and we are on a collision course  the future is bleak, really bleak.

Apprenticeships can be tough, but they can also pay off massively

Melbourne woman Ashley Belteky was told she was wasting her potential when she applied for an apprenticeship after finishing high school.

It was a tough slog when the now-qualified diesel mechanic first started. She was only earning around $12 an hour, but she stuck to her guns and kept going.

Youre much better off financially for doing four years in an apprenticeship than four years at a university, Belteky told Yahoo Finance.

Ive been earning more than all of my peers who went to university pretty much since I left school. Even now, where theyve got degrees and Im qualified, Ive had a greater earning potential.

While her parents were supportive, Ashley Belteky said other people and friends didn't understand her decision to do an apprenticeship. (Source: Supplied)

She said there was a myth that going to university would guarantee you better earning potential than doing an apprenticeship.

Theres very much this idea that university is the better option than a VET [vocational education and training] pathway, she said.

I think thats because that was the solution given to our parents, even just a few generations ago, to set yourself up to be secure and successful.

According to SEEK, the average annual salary for trade jobs in Australia ranges from $75,000 to $95,000, but that can go much higher if people are willing to work overtime or take up a FIFO job. Belteky, for example, was earning $140,000 in mining freshly after she qualified.

Plus, unlike university degrees where graduates are left with an average HECS debt of $24,770, many trades offer fee-free apprenticeships, while also providing an income.

Get the latest Yahoo Finance news - follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
CHEYENNE, WYO  First Lady Jennie Gordon's Wyoming Hunger Initiative in partnership with the John P. Ellbogen Foundation allocated $85,000 in March to anti-hunger nonprofit organizations in each of Wyoming's 23 counties to help with the rising cost of food as the need increases and the availability of resources decreases.

While grassroots efforts are underway in every Wyoming county dedicated to reducing hunger and combating food insecurity, demand on resources statewide has exponentially increased making it challenging for anti-hunger organizations to keep food on the shelves to include...
Elie Farah Upsets Felipe Ketzer in Merit Poker Carmen Series Main Event

March 27, 2024 Ryan Lashmar Live Reporter

The 2024 Merit Poker Carmen Series $3,300 Main Event has wrapped up at the Crystal Cove Hotel and Casino, and it took nearly 12 hours for a winner to emerge from the 41 players who entered the final day.

After the dust had settled Elie Farah was the last player standing, scoring five final table knockouts and last defeating Felipe Ketzer in heads-up play to take home the title and top prize of $338,500.

Farah notably was down to his last 125,000 chips on the stone bubble during yesterday's Day 3, worth just five big blinds at that time. His previous best score before this comes from an eighth-place finish in the 2022 Merit Poker Retro Series Main Event for $30,255. Today's victory not only exceeds his previous best more than tenfold and triples his total live tournament earnings, which stood below $150,000.

Carmen Series Main Event Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize (USD) 1 Elie Farah Lebanon $338,500 2 Felipe Ketzer Brazil $249,200 3 Dinesh Alt Switzerland $153,000 4 Bart Lybaert Belgium $113,100 5 Dmitry Gromov Russian Federation $84,700 6 Tahsin Cankurtaranli Turkey $68,400 7 Andrey Litvinov Russian Federation $56,600 8 Maher Achour Tunisia $45,100 9 Danut Chisu Romania $33,900

Robbi Jade Lew Wins First Poker Tournament Since J4

Final Day Recap

The Main Event was another success for Merit Poker, attracting 664 total entrants to generate a prize pool of $1,832,640, smashing the $1,000,000 guarantee. Of those 664 entrants, only 41 players made it to the final day. Some notable players to begin the final day with chips but fell before the final table included Simone Andrian (28th - $10,445), Day 2 chip leader Fausto Tantillo (22nd - $13,560), and Andrey Pateychuk (20th - $15,205).

Bart Lybaert got off to a hot start today after a brutal runout saw him eliminate Maciej Komorowski. Lybaert would soon surpass start of day chip leader Ketzer and rode that momentum to enter the final table atop of the counts. Not far behind him was Ketzer, who dealt a mortal blow to Umutcan Ipekoglu on the final table bubble to enter the FT with the second-largest stack.

John Malkovich Reflects on Iconic Rounders Role as Teddy KGB in GQ Interview

The Final Table

Main Event Final Table

Play was very conservative at the start, with two players starting with very short stacks that forced the other players to tread carefully in an attempt to outlast them. It took over an hour before Danut Chisu became the first final table casualty courtesy of Ketzer. The Brazilian pro would also claim the next two final table knockouts, with Maher Achour and Andrey Litvinov following Chisu out of the door in eighth and seventh place respectively.

Farah was under the radar for most of the day today and began the final table with only the sixth-largest stack. He made an excellent river call with pocket kings against Lybaert shortly after the final table began to double up his short stack and never looked back from there, consecutively eliminating Tahsin Cankurtaranli, Dmitry Gromov and Lybaert.

Play between Ketzer, Farah, and Dinesh Alt began with all three players very close in chips. After a short battle, Ketzer claimed most of Alt's stack after making top pair on the river and getting max value. Farah finished off Alt shortly afterwards to set up heads-up play.

Felipe Ketzer

Ketzer, who placed third in the Merit Poker Western Series Main Event this past January, began heads-up play with a modest lead but it would not be long before Farah picked up top pair and called off Ketzer who had both a straight and a flush draw. Ketzer was left with crumbs after missing his draw and bowed out in second-place while Farah claimed the last pot of the night, the trophy at the top prize of $338,500.
Luxon Pay Launches the Much Requested Luxon Pay Mastercard

March 27, 2024 Matthew Pitt Senior Editor

Luxon Pay customers have greater flexibility than ever before over how they access and use their funds with the launch of the Luxon Pay Mastercard. The Luxon Pay Mastercard is a physical debit card available to residents of the United Kingdom and countries in the European Union, enabling users to spend currencies within their Luxon Pay wallet while taking advantage of competitive exchange rates simultaneously.

The Luxon Pay Mastercard comes in a sleek, modern design, making it stand out in any user's wallet. Applying for the Luxon Pay Mastercard is easily done through the Luxon Pay app. In addition to receiving a physical Luxon Pay Mastercard, users can immediately use their card to make online purchases by viewing their card details within the Luxon Pay app.

Managing Director of Luxon Pay, Tom Waters, is delighted deliver the company's promise on launching a physical card, the number one request from Luxon Pay's vast customer base.

Luxon Pay Managing Director, Tom Waters

"The introduction of the Luxon Pay Mastercard greatly adds to the potential of Luxon Pay and what it can provide for the customer base. Adding a card to the wallet was the number one item requested for our customers and I'm delighted that we have been able to deliver this feature for them."

"In today's remote working and global travel age, the Luxon Pay Mastercard will position itself as a crucial payment tool for our travelling customer base. Luxon Pay users can not only deposit and withdraw from the world's leading gaming sites and buy into live poker events, but also now spend their balance globally with the Luxon Pay Mastercard."

The Luxon Pay Mastercard supports ATM withdrawals, online spending, and supports contactless payments; customers can fully manage their card via the Luxon Pay app, which can be downloaded via the Google Play store for Android users or the App Stoe for iOS users.

What is Luxon Pay?

Luxon Pay is a digital wallet, often called an eWallet in gaming circles, where users can hold balances in over 30 currencies. The ability to store and spend money in multiple currencies has resulted in Luxon Pay's popularity among poker players soar, particularly those who frequent the live poker scene. Exchange rates are updated every ten minutes, with currency exchange fees varying dependant on your VIP level.

Users can send and request money from friends and family members around the world without any associated fees.

The addition of the Luxon Pay Mastercard makes it easier than ever to access fund stored in your Luxon Pay wallet. Suppose you are in France and want to buy something from a store. You can convert all or some of your Luxon Pay balance to euros and use your Luxon Pay Mastercard wherever you see the famous Mastercard logo.

Are Luxon Pay Fees Low?

Luxon Pay prides itself on offering its customers low fees for accessing its financial services. The fees are low for Standard VIP level members, and often waved for the higher-tier VIPs; there are four Luxon Pay VIP levels.

Check the table below for a snapshot of some of the fees that apply to the various VIP levels.

Standard Classic Premium Noir Merchant deposits required per quarter 0 3,000-9,999 10,000-29,999 30,000+ Bank deposits into Luxon Pay No fee No fee No fee No fee Debit card deposits into Luxon Pay Fees may apply No fee No fee No fee Alternative payments into Luxon Pay Fees may apply Fees may apply Fees may apply Fees may apply Instant transfers to other Luxon Pay users No fee No fee No fee No fee Currency exchange 2% fee 1% fee 0.5% fee No fee Deposits to merchants No fee No fee No Fee No fee Withdrawals from merchants No fee No fee No fee No fee Order physical card 20 20 No fee No fee Spending abroad 2% fee 1.5% fee 1% fee 0.5% fee ATM withdrawals 1% fee 1% fee 1% fee 1% fee Bank withdrawals (UK) 10 fee No fee No fee No fee Bank withdrawals (SEPA) 10 fee No fee No fee No fee Bank withdrawals (SWIFT) 20 fee 20 fee No fee No fee

Luxon Pay is not currently available in the United States. Should that change, you will hear about it first right here at PokerNews.

Sharelines Luxon Pay launches the Luxon Pay Mastercard. Learn all about it at PokerNews.
MainEventTravel.com is The Trip Leader If You're Heading to Vegas for the 2024 WSOP

March 27, 2024 Main Event Travel

MainEventTravel.com has been helping poker players travel to Las Vegas and tournaments around the world since 2011 and has ramped up its offering even further for players heading to WSOP this summer.

Run by a powerhouse steeped in decades of customer service and hospitality experience, the MainEventTravel.com team knows that competitive pricing, flexibility, and value are paramount when it comes to poker travel.

The specialist poker travel agency has launched a new online "Pay When You Stay" booking service, allowing customers to pay the hotel directly on arrival. This is ideal for regs scheduling tournament travel months in advance, pros waiting for backers to send bankrolls, or for those saving up for that bucket-list poker holiday!

But its not all change. The dedicated poker booking site will continue to offer some of the most competitive rates on pre-paid hotels in Sin City and around the globe. Now, you have all options available at your fingertips: "Pay Today" or "Pay When You Stay!"

MainEventTravel.com is Poker's Trip Leader Bag yourself a deal

Head to METs Events page and click WSOP to quickly and easily search for Las Vegas Hotels and flights this summer!

Scottish poker player and leisure industry entrepreneur Fraser MacIntyre acquired Main Event Travel in 2014 with the objective of offering players an easy-to-use, efficient, and competitive poker travel platform. The Vegas veteran, who makes the WSOP pilgrimage every summer, says, "Player experience is at the forefront of everything we do. We are continuously working to improve our offering and functionality to provide a one-stop shop for poker travel around the globe."

The Voice of Poker Lon McEachern agrees. Last year, he was announced as the Voice of MainEventTravel.com and released a series of video clips highlighting the bespoke services MET has tailored to tournament travelers.

Lon McEachern

McEachern said: Im thrilled to be working with MainEventTravel.com. Ive known the company since it started, and I REALLY like what they do. MainEventTravel.com was created by poker players for poker players.

Lon has been waxing lyrical to players about Vegas travel and METs existing and newest USPs, including Pay When You Stay, a partnership with Luxon Pay, and the unique added value #FinalTableFreeroll promotion, where players booking with MET can win back up to 100% of their tournament travel in future travel credit.

EPT Paris 2024 champion and the newest addition to the PokerStars roster, Barny Boatman, was the first to scoop a #FinalTableFreeroll bonus when he reached the final table of the WSOP $600 No Limit Hold'em/Pot Limit Omaha bracelet event last summer. Boatman said: "MainEventTravel always sorts out my Vegas trip, which makes me feel like some kind of aging rock star or a spoiled child. They do get great deals."

Barny Boatman

Kelly Saxby, MET Retail Sales and Marketing, says, The team has been working continuously behind the scenes to create value for customers in every way. The #FinalTableFreeroll promotion makes booking with MET a no-brainer. Players are traveling to the WSOP this Summer aiming to FT. Why not book with an agency that gives you an opportunity to boost your bankroll even further when you do?"

"And Pay When You Stay hotels are a game changer. Previously, players looked to MET for last-minute, pre-paid hotel offers. Now MET is on par with the biggest online booking platforms, providing a full spectrum of hotels and flights, with the added bonus of buy-ins, packages, and tools developed with players in mind."

We think MainEventTravel.com should be your go-to Las Vegas booking platform and have complied a list of top reasons to book with The Trip Leader this summer:

Mobile-Friendly Website

Global Event Listings and Calendars

Geo-Locate Hotels & Airports

Highly Competitive Rates

Pay Now or Pay When You Stay Hotels

ATOL Protected Flights

Poker Packages & Advance Buy-Ins

Exclusive Promotions & Special Offers

Multiple Currencies & Payment Options

Easily Change Display Language

View and Amend Trips in a Click

#FinalTableFreeroll Added Value

Dont just take our word (and Lons)  check out MainEventTravel.com for yourself! We have an exclusive offer for PokerNews readers. MainEventTravel.com is giving away 100 x $25 Travel Credits to use towards a Las Vegas booking. Email [email protected] with "PokerNews" in the subject before 15th April 2024 to claim. Ts & Cs apply.

Head to MainEventTravel.com today to book ATOL-protected flights, "Pay Now" or "Pay When You Stay" Las Vegas Hotels, and for full details of the #FinalTableFreeroll eligible events. Look out for MET team members in Vegas this summer to grab a patch or say hello!

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Democrat Marilyn Lands won a state House special in deep red Alabama by making reproductive rights the center of her campaign.

CNN reported:

Lands, a licensed professional counselor who lost her 2022 bid for the Huntsville-area seat by nearly 7 points, opposes the states near-total ban on abortion and openly discussed the abortion she had more than 20 years ago after her fetus tested positive for a rare genetic condition.

Her opponent, Republican Teddy Powell, a two-term Madison City councilman, avoided discussing abortion rights and focused his campaign on economic development, infrastructure and education funding. Powell described himself as pro-life but said he might be open to considering legislation to add exceptions for rape and incest to Alabamas abortion ban.

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With 99% of the vote in, Lands is leading 62%-37% in a district that was +1 for Trump in 2020.

No matter how much the media and Republicans pretend otherwise, reproductive rights are a very important issue to voters. Alabama is one of the states that imposed an extreme abortion ban after Dobbs, and the state supreme court set off a national firestorm when it banned IVF.

Reproductive rights is a powerful issue. Alabama is by no means a swing state, but Democrats have demonstrated that they can win special elections, even in deep red states, when reproductive rights are on the ballot.

Republicans have a reproductive rights problem and it isnt going away in November.

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Trump has been slapped with a gag order in the Manhattan hush money/election interference case that will stop him talking about everyone but the judge and prosecutor.

CNN reported:

A New York judge has imposed a gag order on Donald Trump, limiting the former president from making statements about potential witnesses in the criminal trial relating to hush money payments scheduled to begin next month.

Judge Juan Merchan also said that Trump cant make statements about attorneys, court staff or the family members of prosecutors or lawyers intended to interfere with the case. Trump is also barred from making statements about any potential or actual juror.

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The former president, Merchan wrote, has a history of making threatening, inflammatory, denigrating statements against people at all levels of the justice system, including jurors.

Trump is also banned from speaking about Stomy Daniels and Michael Cohen, which will drive him insane, because they are two of his biggest triggers, especially Cohen.

Donald Trump is an expert at attempting to contaminate jury pools, so gag orders against him, as he continues to survive in the national political discourse should be a given.

The message being sent by the judge is that the ex-president is not going to be allowed to turn the Manhattan criminal trial into a rally stage for his presidential campaign, or circus that he will use to fundraise off of.

It is a moment that millions of Americans have been waiting for. Defendant Trump is about to go on trial for some of his alleged crimes.

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NBC News will be dropping former RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel less than a day after a talent rebellion at MSNBC that featured a powerful Rachel Maddow segment.

Rebellion Leads To NBC News Dumping Ronna McDaniel

Dylan Byers of Puck News posted, NBC NEWS plans to drop ex RNC-chair Ronna McDaniel as a paid contributor following on-air revolt from NBC/MSNBC talent. Execs are deliberating over details; announcement pending. Meanwhile, McDaniel is seeking legal representation.

None of this official yet, but McDanuel is looking for a lawyer and planning to sue the network.

The on-air talent rebellion at MSNBC was unprecedented because the most powerful hosts on the network went public and told their audience what was going on and why McDaniel did not belong at NBC News.

Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski started off the day by announcing that McDaniel would essentially be banned from Morning Joe.

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Nicolle Wallace hosted Timothy Snyder to discuss how MSNBC was appeasing a dictator by hiring McDaniel.

The centerpiece was Rachel Maddow who used her whole first segment to explain why McDaniel was essential to an authoritarian like Trump taking over the Republican Party, and how she worked to overthrow our system of government.

Maddow said, We are contending with this now not from William Dudley Pelleys brown shirt militias, right, but from the multi-billion massive political operation of one of the two governing parties of the United States of America. And thats new. And with our country up against something that daunting and that scary and that dangerous for the country, I think bad decisions will inevitably happen. Mistakes will be made. But part of our resilience as a democracy is going to be recognizing, us recognizing when decisions are bad ones. And reversing those bad decisions. Listening to legitimate criticism, responding to it, and correcting course. Not digging in, not blaming others. Take a minute. Acknowledge that maybe it wasnt the right call. It is a sign of strength, not weakness, to acknowledge when you are wrong. It is a sign of strength. And our country needs us to be strong right now.

Video of Maddow:

Lawrence ODonnell followed up with his own history lesson and reasoning for why McDaniel could not be on the network:

Lawrence ODonnell has epic questions for Ronna McDaniel, My first question would be, why did you change your name for Donald Trump? Before Trump ran for president, her name was Ronna Romney McDaniel. How does that feel? To change her name to curry favor with a madman? pic.twitter.com/pJdbrbSIXS  Sarah Reese Jones (@PoliticusSarah) March 26, 2024

Stephanie Ruhle closed the day by adding her support to the Never Ronna rebellion and from then on, it was just a matter of time until NBC pulled the plug.

Ronna McDaniel Wont Be On NBC News, But What Happens Next?

NBC News is going to announce that they wont hire Ronna McDaniel and then they will be sued by McDaniel.

Just because McDaniel wont be on MSNBC does not mean that the threat is over. McDaniel had meetings with multiple networks, so the corporate media hasnt learned anything. They will keep trying to hire Trumpers who want to end our democracy.

NBC News is currently being run by executives who come Republican-friendly big corporate outlets like Politico and The New York Times. These executives believe that America is a conservative country, and they are trained to court Trump and his party.

The other important lesson is that NBC News didnt back down on McDaniel due to viewer outrage. It took an unprecedented on-air rebellion to make this change happen. NBC News executives didnt care what MSNBC viewers wanted. The left appearance of the network was nothing more than branding for them.

Ronna McDaniel was rejected, but as long as corporate media looks for ways to appease Trump, there will be many more challenges coming for democracy and journalism in the United States.

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Lara Trump tells people to trust her that she isnt robbing the RNC.

Lara Trump told NBC News, I think the reason that Im here is to assure people who ever had any question as to how their money is being spent. Can they trust the RNC? Can they donate to this entity? Trust me, Im the daughter-in-law of Donald Trump. I will ensure that every penny of every dollar is going to causes that Republican voters care about. We want to, of course, elect Donald Trump at the top of the ticket, and then, of course, elect Republicans all the way down.

Video:

Lara Trump: Im here is to assure people who ever had any question as to how their money is being spentTrust me, Im the daughter-in-law of Donald Trump. I will ensure that every penny of every dollar is going to causes that Republican voters care about. pic.twitter.com/8TNZmIcJ4y To get more stories like this, subscribe to our newsletter The Daily.  Republican Voters Against Trump (@AccountableGOP) March 27, 2024

Lara Trump didnt say where the RNC donations were going, but she has given plenty of hints. Trump has said that she thinks that Republican donors care about paying Trumps legal bills. She has also said that the RNC is going to be a Trump family operation and that every RNC penny was going to go to getting Trump back in the White House.

The DNC doesnt run around saying that their top goal is to get Joe Biden reelected. The job of political parties is support candidates at all levels while getting voters mobilized to vote.

Lara Trump has been installed at the RNC for one reason, and that is to empty the coffers for her father in law. Donors should be weary of giving any money to the RNC, because the vast majority of it will find its way to Donald Trump.

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If youre wondering whats become of Jeffrey Clark after he tried to help ex-president Donald Trump overturn an election he lost, Clark is currently facing a disciplinary proceeding and in that process, witnesses are testifying to some very disturbing events, including his belief that smart thermostats were used to manipulate voting machines.

In the days before the deadly terrorist attack of January 6th, 2021, Trump hatched the plot to replace Justice Department leadership with Jeffrey Clark. Clark was willing, where

Jeffrey Clark, a Trump senior official in DOJ, is facing a disciplinary proceeding that could result in the loss of his license to practice law. He stands accused of making false claims as he attempted to enlist the agency in former President Donald Trumps efforts to undo his 2020 election loss.

What Mr. Clark was attempting to do was essentially a coup at the Department of Justice, the District of Columbia Bar disciplinary counsel said opening arguments on Tuesday.

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Here a coup, there a coup, everywhere a coup, coup.

Clarks lawyer denies that Clark was engaged in an attempted coup at the DOJ, saying he was instead engaged in an internal debate and disagreement.

Clark is the person Trump tried to put in charge of the DOJ as acting head, a trick he often used to get around the norms that serve as some kind of checks and balances, to take action on Trumps false claims about the election he lost. Clark is accused of trying to pressure DOJ leaders to act on false claims of election fraud in an effort to help Trump overturn election results in various states.

To this end, Donald Trumps former deputy White House counsel, Pat Philbin, gave his first public testimony about what went down at the DOJ as Trump was trying to seize power and overturn U.S. democracy, during which he testified that Clark was wildly misinformed about claims of election fraud  countenancing a theory about smart thermostats being used to manipulate voting machines  and not sufficiently cognizant of the havoc it would wreak on the country if his plan succeeded.

Philbin describes, in Politico, Clark as a true believer who thought he had the opportunity to do something about it.

Philbin warned Clark that there would be riots in every major American city if Trump reversed the outcome of the election, to which Clark responded, Well, Pat, thats what the Insurrection Act is for.

Clark wanted to deploy U.S. military and federalized National Guard troops in the borders of the U.S. to suppress any civil disorder, insurrection, or rebellion that might arise from Donald Trump refusal to honor the will of the people in an election he lost.

The takeaway from this testimony is more than just where did Trump find so many people so willing to throw away their own careers for clearly bonkers Q-Anon level conspiracy theories, but more important at this moment: Trump and his helpers at Project 2025 are plotting how to not be stopped next time.

Trump and his enablers thought nothing of the idea of deploying the U.S. military against U.S. citizens in an effort to stay in power. This is the thinking of a dictator, not of a president of a democratic country.
A chef and restaurant owner has shared his frustration after a brazen thief stole delivered items from outside the venue hours before it was due to open.

But it's not the first time staff at August the Old Place cafe, in the affluent Sydney suburb of Mosman, have been targeted, with head chef and owner Moon saying it's becoming a regular occurrence in the area.

The brazen act occurred at roughly 3.25 on Monday morning, shortly after a delivery of milk was made. Footage shared with Yahoo shows four crates of full cream dairy on the pavement outside the popular eatery before a hooded figure suddenly appears.

The unknown person, believed to be a woman and wearing a black zip-up hoodie, is seen approaching the dairy delivery before walking off with two of the four stacked crates. Less than a minute later she returns, appearing to look around.

Two crates comprising 18 bottles of milk were stolen from August the Old Place cafe in Mosman on Monday morning. Source: Supplied

Moon suggested she was likely looking for fresh produce and told Yahoo News Australia it's happened a few times with baked goods and even newspapers disappearing before staff arrive.

"In the past few months, we have had our bread delivery stolen, and sometimes our fresh muffins go missing in the hours before the cafe opens," he told the Mosman Collective.

"But what are you going to do with 18 bottles of milk with an expiry date?" he said to Yahoo.

Other businesses warned of growing trend

Moon said the rising cost of living could be to blame, with struggling Aussies now finding new ways to make ends meet. But he also thought it could be "a rival cafe" saying "18 bottles of milk is quite a big quantity for a small cafe".

While he says the loss of $60 "won't affect business operations" he is concerned by the rise in thefts in the area.

"We just make sure be careful and warm to other business," he said. "We are located main road, can you imagine small corner or back lane cafes? They'll have more problems than us."

Story continues

Residents in the area labelled the move "disappointing" and "so sad".

Chef and owner Moon said several delivered items have now been stolen from the premises and is warning other businesses in the Mosman area. Source: Instagram

Alarming rise in theft

The latest data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research shows there's an "upward trend" in retail theft. This includes supermarkets, licensed premises and food retailers among others. Food and beverage theft has increased 13.6 per cent over five years ending July 2023, with the rising cost of living likely contributing.

Australian supermarkets are also experiencing a surge in shoplifting. To help combat theft, Coles and Woolworths have introduced a range of anti-theft technology to deter shoppers from shoplifting, such as smart gates and trolley-locking technology  some of which are loathed by frustrated shoppers.

There have also been reports of food deliveries being stolen from homes across the country. Several HelloFresh customers have pleaded with locals to "please stop stealing my" food after a string of food delivery thefts, mostly in Sydney.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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Debra Green was on her way to drop off some paperwork at Aiken County Department of Social Services building on Park Avenue in Aiken, but once she arrived the building was closed.

While making her way to the the other DSS location in North Augusta, her car broke down in Burnettown.

Running out of options, Green spent the afternoon trying to figure out how she could send paperwork via email.

Green is one of many people in Aiken who has been feeling the impact of the building's closure after a March 5 fire caused damage at the Park Avenue location.

Green said the building's closure has not just become an inconvenience for her, but also for other people who use the department's services in Aiken.

"I had no idea that it was closed," she said.

Aiken County officials don't have a timeline when the building will reopen and people have been asked to go to the other DSS office, which is located in North Augusta and about 25 minutes away from Aiken.

The damaged building is shared by the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

It was determined that the fire was caused by an electrical issue. Aiken County Administrator Brian Sanders said even though the fire began in the attic, parts of the building had smoke damage and repair could take several months.

Sanders said smoke remediation is currently underway.

The impact

It was a hard time trying to send in and I am having a hard time trying to send it through email, Green said.

Green said having the service in the immediate Aiken area would have been better than in North Augusta because some people dont have reliable transportation.

A spokesperson with DSS said the closure has not directly impacted how their clients receive services. Information about the closure includes signage at the location and on social media.

The spokesperson also said clients could access applications for services, such as SNAP, TANF, child care scholarships and establishing child support services, online.
Aiken Countys deal to sell the old Aiken County Hospital to Tracey Turner still is waiting to be finalized.

The closing that was scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday at the office of Aiken attorney Brad Boni didnt happen.

Still working out a few issues, wrote Aiken County Administrator Brian Saunders in a text message late Wednesday morning. Closing is now tentatively set for Monday. No time set yet though.

The deadline to complete the sale is March 31, but the contract specifies it can go to the next business day, which would be April 1, said County Council Chairman Gary Bunker in a telephone interview.

The parties are shooting for Monday, April 1, he added.

Bunker said the source of his information was County Attorney Brad Farrar.

Last year, Turner entered into an agreement to purchase the old hospital and the 9.44-acre tract on which it stands for $950,000.

A native of Aiken County, Turner is the CEO and owner of Washington, D.C.-based Turner Development LLC.

The Aiken Standard reported last week that Turner is facing foreclosure on his Weeping Willows project in the North Augusta area that would include stores and more than 400 residential lots.

Fuse 10 LLC, which loaned Turner and his company $1 million to purchase former farm properties for Weeping Willows, filed a lawsuit against them March 15 in the Court of Common Pleas in Aiken County.

According to the legal action, Turner and his company failed to pay back most of the money after receiving extensions.

Fuse 10 is a Delaware company that is a subsidiary of the Fuse Group, a real estate lender based in South Florida.
An office building on Aikens Southside was sold recently for $4.25 million.

UPS Supply Chain Solutions Inc. has been a tenant there for more than 20 years and has a corporate double net lease with approximately three years of the term remaining, according to a press release issued earlier this month by Marcus & Millichap.

The release didnt identify the buyer or the seller of the building at 2031 S. Centennial Ave.

But Aiken County land records show that Centennial Ave LLC purchased the 53,040-square-foot structure and the 4.49-acre tract on which it stands for $6 million in 2020.

The seller then was FCP Aiken LLC.

Centennial Ave LLC has an Alpharetta, Georgia address, according to land records.

The building is in the Centennial Corporate Center.

This is a mission critical location for UPS, making this a great opportunity for the buyer, said Ani Paulson, vice president of investments for Marcus & Millichap, in a prepared statement. Our seller was moving towards retirement, hence the motivation to sell.

Because of the challenging traditional lending market, our seller agreed to a seller-financing structure, which enabled us to take this deal to the finish line smoothly and efficiently, she continued. We have closed [deals on] numerous properties with such structures and plan to continue until the debt markets fully stabilize.

Paulson, an investment specialist in Marcus & Millichaps Atlanta office, had the exclusive listing to market the building on behalf of the seller.

Ben Yelm, broker of record in South Carolina, assisted in finalizing the transaction.

Marcus & Millichap is a commercial real estate brokerage firm.

The Aiken Standard contacted Yelm by telephone seeking more information and left a voice message, but he didnt respond prior to the publication deadline for this story.

As of Tuesday afternoon, the details of deal werent available to the public yet online at aikencountysc.gov through qPublic.net.
Several local people were honored for their service to the community at a scholarship gala.

We try to acknowledge a lot of those people for their work, and a lot of the time these are unsung heroes, said Axel Adams, who is the founder of the Axel Adams Foundation.

The Axel Adams Foundation had its seventh annual scholarship gala March 23 at the North Augusta Community Center to raise funds for scholarships for local students.

The scholarship gala wasn't held in 2021 and 2022 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The event returned in 2023.

Adams said the gala was organized by people who live or used to live in the area, but because the community gave so much to them, they wanted to give back.

In addition to the gala, the foundation also focuses on empowerment, education and enrichment through various programs such as youth esquire classes, a nurses guild, events for seniors and a Mothers Day Luncheon.

This is really our second year coming back in a big way, Adams said.

The honorees recognized were Shirley Ann Williams with the community award; Adrienne Fairwell, president and CEO of SCETV, with the presidents award; local meteorologist Jay Jefferies with the media award; Vivian Edwards with the elected official award; Dr. Leonard Griffin with the clergy award; Joyce Bradley with the educator award; and Keyatta Priester with the business award.

Y'all know my sister and she just has a giving heart, said Larry Willams, who accepted the award for his sister Shirley Ann Williams. She is just a giving person and she would do it out of her own pockets."

Bradley said the greatest honor she could ever receive as a former educator is to have a student come back and say she impacted their life.

Edwards was the first African American female to sit on New Ellenton City Council.

Priester said the award meant a lot to her because of the health issues that impacted her family over the past year.
Aiken, SC (29801)

Today

Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low near 60F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low near 60F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph.
A dog that had been in a Cayuga County house fire was assisted with an oxygen mask after the blaze was extinguished Tuesday night.

A call for a structure fire at 3618 Myers Road in Venice came in at around 10:45 p.m., Cayuga County 911 dispatchers told The Citizen. Most of the fire was extinguished quickly, according to a post on the Genoa Volunteer Fire Department's Facebook page, but downed power lines hindered efforts by firefighters to get into the building for a thorough overhaul.

After the blaze was extinguished, firefighters heard a dog barking in the house, the department said. A crew was able to safely enter the building and retrieve the animal. The King Ferry Fire Department provided it with a pet oxygen mask, marking the first time the equipment has been used. The dog was then returned to its owner.

Fire departments from Aurora, Fleming, Lansing, Locke, Long Hill, Moravia, Poplar Ridge and Scipio responded to the scene. Southern Cayuga Instant Aid, the Cayuga County Sheriff's Office, New York State Police, the Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services, the Cayuga County rehab and fire investigation units, and the Genoa Ladies Auxiliary all assisted at the scene as well.
Moncks Corner, SC (29461)

Today

Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. Low around 60F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. Low around 60F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
Even with a combined raise and bonus of $10,000 for Charleston County educators last year, the district's teacher compensation task force continues to push for a base starting salary of $58,000, as well as better pay for classified staff, such as teacher's aides.

Members of the task force and others gathered outside the downtown Charleston school district headquarters on March 25 to promote a livable wage for Charleston educators," said Patrick Martin, CCSD teacher and member of the task force.

They followed up with a strong presence at the school board meeting.

With Martin were a group of active and retired CCSD educators, classified staff and community members, all in support of the task forces request to add a $5,000 one-time ESSER bonus paid in 2023 into the teachers regular pay scale. Task force members made it clear that their main goal is to bring educators' starting salaries to $58,000, which would increase the salaries of all teachers across the board by $10,000.

Martin said that the school boards efforts last year of providing a $5,000 pay increase in addition to the $5,000 bonus, as well as increasing teacher pay bumps to year 40, halted the exodus of teachers from classrooms. The district has reported only 15 vacancies this school year, he said.

Last years increase, Martin said, has changed the climate and culture in schools and classrooms and alleviated some financial burdens on educators.

You can see this has ignited a greater sense of value and importance of our teachers while also helping them pay their bills, afford groceries and housing, Martin said. It has allowed people to have babies. People were holding off having families because they just weren't making enough money.

Martin also said the increases revived the Teacher Cadet Program at Charleston County School of the Arts, which he called a groundbreaking program that encourages students to expose themselves to the teaching profession.
While women leading industries should be a given at this point and not something particularly noteworthy, the reality is that its often still men at the helm in the corporate world.

When it comes to the food and beverage industry, its often still men in the executive chef role in the kitchen and in managerial positions across the restaurant  something that has certainly been changing over time but still is unbalanced.

In Charleston, the same rings true. But that doesnt mean its across the board. There are some stellar women leaders in food and bev behind some of the peninsulas best restaurants.

The Post and Courier caught up with three particular restaurants with women leaders in a variety of positions to share a little more about their passions, struggles, talents and goals.

Herd Provisions

Over in the Wagener Terrace neighborhood, an executive chef and wine and events director are running the show.

At Herd Provisions, Jeanne Oleksiak is not only the executive chef, but shes the butcher and the pastry chef, as well. She works with a team to put out creative plates made with fresh and sustainable local ingredients for dinner most nights a week and lunch and dinner on Fridays and Saturdays.

Oleksiak, who has been at the restaurant since 2020 after working as sous chef right down the street at Park & Grove (formerly Park Cafe), is dishing out whipped ricotta, ceviche, hand-pulled burrata, rigatoni ragu, brined pork chops and much more alongside an all-male kitchen team.

On the back-of-house end especially, its a more male-dominated world, Oleksiak told The Post and Courier. Its kind of been that way forever.

Being a female line cook in the kitchen can come with locker room talk and inappropriate comments, said Oleksiak. And worse sometimes  sexual innuendos and harassment that is often not seen behind closed doors.

You have to have thicker skin, she said.
COLUMBIA  In 2021, the University of South Carolina jazz program saw a changing of the guard. Pianist Bert Ligon, who taught at the university for the last 30 years and quite literally built the program, was retiring. Three new faculty members were hired over a short period of time  trumpeter Matt White, saxophonist Lauren Meccia and drummer Colleen Clark.

Thats a small crew, but its also something rare  a female-majority faculty in a genre and area of study dominated by men. According to a recent study from the Berklee Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice, only 15 percent of jazz faculty in the United States identified as female, with that number dropping to just 8 percent when considering only instrumental faculty.

That reality is something Clark knows all too well. She was one of only four women in her 300-person jazz department at the University of North Texas, widely considered the most preeminent graduate jazz program in America. She would go on to become both the first woman and the first drummer to ever receive a Ph.D. from the program.

I was typically one of maybe two or three girls, at most, in the jazz band growing up, said Clark. So I didnt really care at the time in the sense that, I'm just going to go in and do my job.' I'm a real straight-ahead person. But at the same time, Im looking around and Im like, whoa, this is troubling.

Clark ended up working with the other women in the departments to create a women and jazz student club during her years of graduate study, and upon joining the University of South Carolina program in 2021, immediately pitched the idea of Jazz Girls Day.

I pitched it to Matt (White) almost immediately, said Clark. And he's like absolutely, we have to do it! Let's figure out what we need to do to do that. And its really been a team effort with Matt and Lauren (Meccia) since then.

The idea behind Jazz Girls Day is to gather high school jazz girls from a given region for a one-day intensive workshop preparing them for their All-State jazz auditions, although any girl musician interested in playing jazz is welcome to attend.
ANDERSON  A homeowners association employee has been charged with stealing over $200,000 and using the money on everyday expenses like shopping, utility bills and streaming services.

Tonya Selman, 46, was arrested by the Anderson County Sheriff's Office on one count of breach of trust with fraudulent intent March 12, according to county court records.

The president of the homeowners association for the Overlook Condos, off Highway 76 by Interstate 85, went to deputies after he noticed an "enormous" amount of money stolen from the association's account, according to a sheriff's office news release.

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Detectives tallied up more than 160 transactions from retailers, utility companies, insurance providers, online clothing subscriptions and more all charged to a debit card Selman was given, the news release says.

Some of the charges were for Netflix, Spectrum, Stitch Fix and Duke Energy, according to the news release.

Selman, a 10-year employee of the homeowners association who most recently was office manager, stole $209,951 over five years, the sheriff's office said.

A homeowners association representative could not immediately be reached for comment.

Selman was released on a $10,000 personal recognizance bond March 12, court records show.
GREENVILLE  A local nurse was arrested after authorities say she stole painkillers for her own use that had been prescribed to patients.

Late last year, pharmacy staff at Bon Secours St. Francis Downtown Hospital in Greenville noticed that the number of painkillers pulled from storage by one nurse was abnormally higher than other nurses  sometimes nearly three times the average, according to a S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control incident report.

The nurse, Erica Irene Hudson, was dispensing far more morphine, Dilaudid (hydromorphone, an opioid) and oxycodone than other nurses from September to December 2023, the incident report says. In one instance, when Hudson worked four days, she dispensed 14 doses of Dilaudid, while her peer who worked two days dispensed four doses.

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Hudson was arrested March 21 on five counts each of violating drug distribution laws and stealing a controlled substance, according to DHEC arrest warrants. She was released on a $50,000 bond later that day, court records show.

It is unclear whether Hudson is still employed by St. Francis.

Bon Secours highest priority is ensuring the safety of our patients, visitors and staff, hospital spokeswoman Jennifer Robinson told The Post and Courier. As a faith-based organization, we hold our employees to the highest ethical standards.

Robinson declined to comment further.

Hudsons state nursing license, issued after her graduation from nursing school in May 2023, was still listed as active and in good standing with the state Board of Nursing as of March 26.

Investigators compared the vitals of patients before and after Hudson documented she had given them painkillers.

Typically, when a patient is given an opioid, the higher heart rates and blood pressure from the pain goes down. Investigators found that when patients vitals were documented, the numbers did not match.

A week after the trends were discovered, Hudson took a drug test that revealed positive traces of oxycodone and oxymorphone in her system, according to the incident report. Records showed that Hudson would frequently pull hydromorphone just before leaving work and occasionally after clocking out.
GREENVILLE  A man who broke off a GPS ankle monitor has been arrested after a deadly shooting over the weekend on Augusta Road.

Robbie Patrick Fleming, 39, was charged with murder, removing an electronic monitoring device and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, according to a Greenville County arrest report.

Flemings bond was denied on the three charges. He remains in custody at the Greenville County jail.

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The Greenville County Sheriffs Office said in a news release that Fleming got into an argument with someone at 6309 Augusta Road on March 24. He drew and fired his gun, killing 23-year-old bystander Christopher Keyshawn Williams with a shot to the chest, according to a coroners office news release.

Fleming turned himself in to deputies March 26, the sheriffs office said.

The sheriffs office did not acknowledge in a four-sentence news release March 27 that Fleming was wearing an ankle monitor.

When asked about the charge for removing an ankle monitor, Deputy Jeremy Holt said that investigators would not comment because the jail had signed off on that warrant.

The sheriffs office declined to provide The Post and Courier a copy of the incident report, citing the ongoing investigation. South Carolinas public records laws require that agencies provide police reports from the past 14 days upon request.

In January, a man wearing a GPS ankle monitor from a domestic violence arrest a month prior went to the house of his longtime partner. He was there for hours before the private company responsible for alerting authorities if GPS boundaries are broken, Sentinel Offender Services, called deputies.

By that point, he had already killed the woman and his mother, and ripped off the ankle monitor before fleeing the scene.

Fleming remains in custody at the Greenville County jail on the three charges.
Summerville, SC (29483)

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Partly to mostly cloudy. Low around 60F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph..

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Partly to mostly cloudy. Low around 60F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
VoteVets, a progressive veterans group, is targeting U.S. Rep. Brandon Williams over Ukraine aid, but the central New York Republican is supporting legislation to provide funding to fend off the Russian invasion.

A $530,000 TV ad campaign paid for by VoteVets is targeting seven Republican members of Congress, including Williams. The ad claims Williams, R-Sennett, is "holding Ukraine aid hostage" and is "following orders from Donald Trump."

The ad urges Williams to sign on in support of a discharge petition to force a vote on a $95 billion foreign aid bill that has already passed the Senate. The legislation includes $60 billion for Ukraine.

House Republican leaders have not allowed a vote on the Senate-passed foreign aid bill.

U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern, a Democrat, is spearheading the discharge petition. As of Tuesday, 191 House members have signed the petition, nearly all of whom are Democrats. U.S. Rep. Ken Buck was the first Republican to sign on in support of the aid package.

Williams has not signed that petition, but recently joined a competing Republican-led effort to force a vote on Ukraine aid legislation. Republican lawmakers, along with Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Golden, have introduced a bill that provides $66 billion in aid to Israel, Taiwan and Ukraine. However, that measure may not pass the Democratic-led Senate because it links foreign aid with border security provisions.

Taylor Weyeneth, a spokesman for Williams, criticized VoteVets' ad campaign in a statement provided to The Citizen.

"The far-left Democrat big money super PACs are either lying on purpose or are incompetent at doing their research," Weyeneth said. "Either way, their attack has no merit and Congressman Williams supports funding Israel and Ukraine, and wants a secure border to protect our local communities."

The fight over Ukraine aid has emerged as a top issue in the 2024 elections. With no agreement on an aid package in Congress, Democrats have accused Republicans of not supporting Ukraine's defense against the ongoing Russian invasion.

Although it's a national debate, the issue does have local importance for Williams. He is seeking reelection in the 22nd Congressional District, which includes the city of Auburn and part of Cayuga County. About 2.3% of the county's population has Ukrainian ancestry, more than any county in New York.
Most humanistic settings require a certain posture from the participants. A boxer enters the ring with his fist clinched and somewhere near his chin. A baseball player places a glove on the non-throwing hand and leaves the dominant hand free to throw the baseball once caught. The guitar play Read moreOur posture tells the story
Depending on whom you listen to about the constantly shifting horse race we call a US presidential election, either Joe Biden or Donald Trump is always ahead or behind by a nose ... nationally. For example, a March 7-13 Ipsos/Reuters poll has Biden at 39% and Trump at 38%, while a March 10-1 Read moreElection 2024: Closer, And Less Important, Than You Probably Think
GEORGETOWN  The girlfriend of Brittanee Drexel's killer, Raymond Moody, has been indicted on three counts of making false statements to federal investigators.

Angel Vause, 56, of Georgetown is accused of lying to FBI agents in May 2022 during the investigation into Drexel's 2009 disappearance and murder. Vause is accused of lying to investigators three times about events that took place on April 25, 2009, which was the last day Drexel was seen alive.

Vause was arrested March 27 and arraigned by U.S. Magistrate Judge Molly Cherry in Charleston later that day.

Vause walked into court at about 2:30 p.m. March 27 wearing shackles and a burgundy jumpsuit. Vause shook her head in a small no as Assistant U.S. Attorney Winston Holiday read each of the three charges she faces.

Holiday did not seek Vause's detention. Cherry set a $10,000 bond, unsecured, which allows Vause to return home and continue working as her case advances. Vause will not have to pay the bond unless she violates the terms of her supervision.

Vause swiveled her chair left to right as Cherry explained the terms of her bond that included not changing her address, her phone number, owning firearms, consuming drugs nor leaving the country.

Vause initially told investigators that on April 25, 2009, she had traveled to the dwelling of a person identified as C.V. to get keys while Moody was assaulting and killing Drexel, according to the indictment. Investigators allege she was actually driving in a different direction and not for that purpose.

Vause also claimed that Drexel had her cellphone but Vause had taken Drexel's phone and drove away, disposing of the phone between Georgetown and Charleston, according to the indictment.
ATLANTIC BEACH  Atlantic Beachs November election results remain uncertified.

The towns Municipal Election Commission on March 27 voted 2-1 to delay certifying the results until a protest hearing can be held next week. The hearing is in response to candidate Josephine Isoms complaint that 18 provisional ballots came from people who live outside the town.

Commission Chairman Kenneth McIver, who cast the dissenting vote, maintains the delay is improper and doesnt follow the towns normal certification procedures. But he was outvoted by commissioners Carolyn Gore and Derrick Stevens, who argued the commissions attorneys had suggested holding the protest hearing first.

I did a lot of preparation for this meeting today, and this is very frustrating, McIver said.

McIver said he doesnt know if the results will be certified immediately after the protest hearing or if another meeting will be necessary.

The latest delay comes after Atlantic Beach Town Councilman John David filed a petition asking the court to force the election commission to certify the election results. David ran for mayor against Isom last fall.

On Election Day, Isom appeared to be the winner, but 18 provisional ballots counted Nov. 9 gave David a 65-64 edge. A runoff would still be required, though, because a candidate would have needed 66 votes out of the 131-ballot total to prevail due to two write-in votes, according to the S.C. Election Commission.

The day before the municipal election commission could certify November results, however, outgoing Mayor Jake Evans convened an emergency meeting to disband the election commission, a decision that came shortly after Isoms allegations about the provisional ballots.
The letter the South Carolina Environmental Law Project wrote was in advance of the first vote of a zoning request that would allow for a boat manufacturing plant to be built, which several residents oppose. Read moreLaw Project warns Council not to let campaign contributions influence Sea Fox Boats vote
NORTH CHARLESTON  State Law Enforcement Division agents cited a city councilman for multiple alcohol violations at a troubled cocktail lounge he co-owns that has been the subject of several lawsuits and police calls.

Michael Antonio Brown is accused of failing to obtain a required beer or wine sale permit, unlawfully storing alcohol and unlawfully possessing alcohol, according to copies of the citations.

Brown, 45, co-owns Blue Note Bistro on Dorchester Road. He opened the cocktail lounge in 2019 with business partner Henry Smalls, according to filings from the S.C. Secretary of State.

The circumstances leading to Brown's citations are unclear. The alleged violations occurred just after 7 p.m. March 6. Each of Brown's citations are misdemeanors carrying a maximum penalty of six months in prison or a $600 fine.

Brown, who's represented District 1 since 2016, disputes the allegations. He told The Post and Courier the episode is a big misunderstanding arising from a clerical error made by the courts in the aftermath of a lawsuit.

Still, Brown and Smalls decided to close the restaurant and bar the day after SLED agents visited the property. Their lease is almost up and they've dealt with "so many" allegations and lawsuits, Brown said. The councilman feels he's been subjected to undue scrutiny because he's a Black business owner.

A SLED spokeswoman said further information wasn't available regarding Brown's charges.

Charleston Master-in-Equity Mikell Scarborough ordered Blue Note's dissolution as a limited liability company in October 2023. David Marvel, the lawyer representing Blue Note, quickly filed a motion asking the judge to reconsider. His request is still awaiting a hearing, court records show.
The S.C. Department of Transportation has decided to replace the Don Holt Bridge over the Cooper River with a wider and taller one as part of an Interstate 526 widening project that will aid the State Ports Authority.

The decision announced March 26 comes a week after the SPA agreed to buy the WestRock paper mill property that abuts the North Charleston Terminal for $105 million.

Port officials had been confidently predicting the bridge would be replaced, allowing larger containerships to reach the North Charleston port site on the upper Cooper River.

"The South Carolina Department of Transportation is playing a pivotal role in the project," the SPA said March 19, in announcing the WestRock purchase. "As part of its expansion of Interstate 526, SCDOT plans to replace the Don Holt Bridge, which will remove height constraints for larger vessels."

The 155-foot-tall, 27,065-foot-long bridge currently limits individual cargo ships bound for the North Charleston Terminal to about 8,000 20-foot containers, but modern ships can carry twice as many, or more.

Modernizing the terminal, raising the Don Holt Bridge, deepening the Cooper River and purchasing the former WestRock property are all critical components that will yield a state-of-the-art North Charleston Terminal, SPA CEO Barbara Melvin said when the WestRock deal was announced.

The DOT's confirmation that it plans to replace the Don Holt came as the state addressed a catastrophe in Baltimore, where a containership struck and demolished the Francis Scott Key Bridge during the early morning hours of March 26, sending vehicles into the water.

"Certainly, our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Baltimore right now," said incoming DOT Secretary Justin Powell.

Replacing the Don Holt would be a key part of a much-larger project. The state's plan to widen I-526 to eight lanes, from West Ashley to Mount Pleasant, is a multibillion-dollar venture that's divided into two parts due to its scope and cost.
It has happened here.

In 1946, a freighter called the Nicaragua Victory smashed into the old Grace Memorial Bridge, taking out a 240-foot chunk of roadway. One vehicle containing the Lawson family plunged into the harbor. All five passengers died.

The old steel truss bridge, which had opened to traffic in the early 1930s, was out of commission for six months.

Commercial shipping ports like Charleston Harbor can be tricky to navigate under certain circumstances, and big ships are driven by imperfect human beings. To account for the hazards and risks, engineers today design bridges capable of withstanding collisions, as well as the impacts of hurricanes and earthquakes.

The March 26 disaster in Baltimore shows that older infrastructure is particularly vulnerable.

At about 1:30 a.m., a large cargo ship leaving the Port of Baltimore lost power  and steerage  ramming into a structural pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and causing a large portion of the span to collapse. The steel bridge was built in the 1970s and was part of Interstate 695, which encircles the city.

The incident is a reminder of the perils of marine navigation and the fallibility of both structural design and human expertise.

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge connecting Charleston and Mount Pleasant is a good example of a modern design meant to tolerate adversity. And recent upgrades to Charleston Harbor make things safer and easier for commercial mariners.

Those navigators get special local assistance, as well. Charleston Harbor pilots board these enormous vessels to guide them in and out of port, and tugboat operators help maneuver the ships, pushing them on and off the dock, and orienting them properly in the shipping channel.

Navigation aids, such as channel markers and government buoys, also assist boat operators inside the harbor and in the shipping channel offshore.

Despite all these precautions, safety measures and assistance both technical and human, accidents can happen. Thats why the Ravenel Bridge design includes large rock piles at the base of the two 575-foot towers.
Wells College is welcoming award-winning author and University of Chicago associate professor Dr. Tina Post back to its campus this year.

Post, who graduated from Wells in 1999 with a bachelor's degree in creative writing and literary arts, will be addressing the college's class of 2024 as they end a chapter of their lives in Aurora.

In a news release, Post said she has returned to the Finger Lakes area frequently because family still lives in her hometown of Scipio. She's also participated in Wells College's Visiting Writer Series, and has lectured in nonfiction courses through the years.

"Wells remains meaningful to me, Post said in a statement. I was close with my professors there. They knew me well. They saw me well. Its such an honor to be invited.

Following graduation, Post earned a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Alaska-Anchorage and completed her doctorate in African-American studies and American studies at Yale University.

Last year, her book "Deadpan: The Aesthetics of Black Inexpression garnered national attention. It won the National Book Critic Circle Award for Criticism, as well as the Best Book Prize from The Association for the Study of the Arts of the Present.

Her Wells College commencement address comes as she continues to educate students in Chicago through a multidisciplinary approach emphasizing creative writing, performance, theater and culture.

The college said Post hopes to put the graduates' minds at ease as they depart Aurora.

"It's still OK to make mistakes. It's still OK to change your mind," Post said. "No one has to have it all figured out. I certainly didn't. It's about enjoying, going forth, exploring, being brave and messing up, and its all still OK.
Most of the available positions in Berkeley County start above $30,000 annually and some of the positions include step increases. Currently, there are about 50 open positions countywide.
FLORENCE  A taste of Hawaii is tucked where you might least expect it: a small Florence storefront near the Pee Dee State Farmers market.

Aloha Kitchen, which embraces the Hawaiian roots of its owners, offers everything from Hawaiian favorites like Kalua pork and chicken katsu to southern staples like fried pickles and hamburger steak (with an island twist).

We just wanted to share our culture with everyone here, said Jedidiah Perkins, the restaurants owner. Perkins is a native of Maui.

The business opened last year. Previously limited to lunch hours, its now expanding to serve dinner Thursday through Saturday.

The small red barn just across the road from the Pee Dee State Farmers Market has been rebranded. Surfboards sit on either side of the entranceway. Inside, Hawaiian license plates decorate the walls alongside a pink fluorescent sign that reads, Aloha Kitchen.

The restaurant is the work of Perkins and his family, who staff the establishment on their own.

Perkins said he grew up in the restaurant industry, and many members of his family own their own Hawaiian restaurants.

Prior to 2020, Perkins owned and operated a cleaning business in Hawaii. But the COVID-19 pandemic shut down much of the available work.

Thats when he turned his eyes to the mainland. Florence  where Perkins had family  seemed like a good place to land, he said. It was big enough to offer something new, but small enough that it wasnt overwhelming.

I like how it still feels (like a) small town here, and it's not like a big city, he said. It's similar to island life where it's a little bit laid back.

It wasnt an easy transition, Perkins said. They were away from many of their friends in Hawaii and had to adjust to southern culture. But opening the restaurant helped ground the family.

What's been awesome is starting this restaurant, we've been able to build a community and really connect with a lot of people and that's something that our culture is all about, he said.
COLUMBIA  As the investigation continues into a series of massive accounting errors discovered on the states books, the South Carolina Senate passed a joint resolution March 26 that would ask voters whether they want to make the states top accountant a post appointed by the governor rather than one elected every four years.

The resolution, which passed the Senate unanimously, would put a constitutional amendment on the 2024 general election ballot that would make the state comptroller general appointed by the governor and approved by the state Senate like most of the governors Cabinet.

Proponents argue that few voters know who the comptroller general is and what the offices duties are, which means the position has too much politicking and too little accountability.

A unanimous vote in the Senate was a pretty strong signal that the Senate at least wants this question before the voters in November, said Sen. Larry Grooms, a Bonneau Republican who leads the investigation of the accounting blunders. Politics really shouldnt come into play. People prefer their accountants not to be crusaders.

The move comes after a series of accounting scandals have left the impression that South Carolina cant keep track of its cash.

It first emerged in 2022 that then-Comptroller General Richard Eckstrom had overstated the states financial position to credit rating agencies by about $3.5 billion after double-counting financial transfers from the state to public universities and miscounting a half-billion in Department of Transportation funds.

Eckstrom resigned in April 2023. Gov. Henry McMaster appointed Brian Gaines, who was his budget director, as comptroller general in May after a standoff between the House and Senate.
COLUMBIA  Kicking off debate on a sweeping energy policy reform bill that lawmakers have painted as a solution to the states looming energy crisis, Belton Republican Rep. Jay West  one of the bills principal architects  talked his colleagues in the state House of Representatives through what the legislation was but, mostly, what it wasnt.

It was not, he said, a reprised version of the Baseload Review Act, the 2007 piece of legislation that laid the groundwork for scandal in the lead-up to the V.C. Sumner power plant debacle that cost ratepayers millions of dollars for a failed expansion of nuclear power.

It was not a blank check for utilities companies to extract funds from ratepayers, West said. Nor did it lay the groundwork for backroom deals between industry insiders and the regulators that oversee them  even as the legislation offered utility executives the ability to meet off-record with regulators to promote their agenda, as former Public Service Commissioner Tom Ervin wrote in his resignation letter to state officials earlier this month.

And it was not a wink and nod to a diminished Public Service Commission  proposed to shrink from its current seven-member roster to three  to fast-track the joint coal-to-gas conversion of the shuttered Canadys Power Plant between Dominion Energy and the state-owned power company Santee Cooper through the public approval process.

All the bill seeks to do, West said, is bring an end to the bureaucratic blockades that will delay the state from potentially bringing on nearly 2,000 megawatts of power into the states stressed power grid at a time its population and economy are exploding.

The truth is the (environmentalists) lost at the PSC on Canadys, and now theyre trying to hold our states energy security hostage, West said on the House floor.

Despite a resounding 88-21 vote to advance the bill on March 27, questions continue to fester around the policy, which faces an uncertain future in a more scrupulous Senate.
SPARTANBURG  City Council thrashed the developers of the Robert Smalls townhome complex following The Post and Couriers reporting on the troubled complex.

Tenants at the predominantly low-income housing developed by EquityPlus have complained about long-malfunctioning HVAC systems and languishing work orders.

I am hearing all of these things and it sounds like a horror movie to me, Councilwoman Ruth Littlejohn said during a March 25 council meeting. And I am hoping the city will never allow this builder to come back and build anything in this city. I do not believe that the builders would have done this if these were not low-income people.

After local TV coverage in November about units without heat, the developer distributed heaters. But the problems werent fixed.

The Post and Courier reported on problems at the complex in late February after a woman fell through her floor and broke her ankle. On March 7, tenants shared concerns with management and city staff at a residents meeting organized with the help of the United Way of the Piedmont. Media was not allowed in.

Following the meeting, developer Ralph Settle with EquityPlus told The Post and Courier that his team would continue to make repairs.

On March 25, City Manager Chris Story said EquityPlus promised to replace 60 malfunctioning HVAC units. But the firm didnt give him a timeline for when the work would be complete beyond the expectation it would be done within weeks, not months.

Weve sort of taken them at their word and good faith, and Im just kind of over it at this point, Councilwoman Erica Brown said. Can they give us a guarantee that these things will be replaced prior to it getting too hot for residents? And if not, what are the alternate means? A fans not going to cut it in this heat and humidity.

Robert Smalls was meant to replace Norris Ridge, a post-World War II Section 8 housing complex that city officials had described as the worst housing situation in the city.
Toyota Hilux is one of the most popular pickup trucks around the world and it is all set to receive an all-electric avatar by the end of 2025. The Japanese carmaker has confirmed that it is working on the Toyota Hilux EV, which will enter mass production by the end of next year.

At the Bangkok International Motor Show, Toyota Thailand's President Noriaki Yamashita said the Hilux EV could be ready by 2025 end. However, he did not specify where the electric pickup truck would be produced. Also, the details like range, power, and battery pack specifications too are yet to be revealed. The upcoming electric version of the pickup truck will be based on the Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Concept, which was unveiled in 2022 and has been undergoing road tests currently.

Also check these Cars Find more Cars Toyota Glanza 1197.0 cc 1197.0 cc Multiple Multiple  6.86 - 10 Lakhs Compare View Offers Toyota Hilux 2755.0 cc 2755.0 cc Diesel Diesel  30.40 - 37.90 Lakhs Compare View Offers UPCOMING Mahindra Global Pik Up 2498 cc 2498 cc Diesel Diesel  25 Lakhs View Details UPCOMING Toyota Camry 2024 2487 cc 2487 cc Petrol Petrol  50 Lakhs View Details UPCOMING Toyota bZ4X 72.8 kWh 72.8 kWh 405 Km 405 Km  70 Lakhs View Details Hyundai Creta 1497 cc 1497 cc Multiple Multiple  11 - 20.15 Lakhs Compare View Offers

Watch: Toyota unveils Hilux lifestyle utility vehicle in India

Interestingly, the announcement of launching the Toyota Hilux EV came on the heels of the OEM's rival Isuzu's announcement. Isuzu announced that it would manufacture the all-electric version of the D-Max pickup truck in 2025. Interestingly, the Isuzu D-Max pickup truck too is available in the Indian market.

While Toyota is mulling the plan to launch the Hilux EV in some major global markets like Thailand, Australia and Europe, the Japanese carmaker has not revealed any plan to bring it to India. However, Toyota currently sells the ICE version of the Hilux pickup truck in India, which was launched with a lot of hype. It was launched in India in 2022 at a starting price of 33.99 lakh (ex-showroom). With the increasing focus on lifestyle vehicles and electric mobility and Hilux being a major product meant for lifestyle offroading, the OEM may think of bringing the Hilux EV into the Indian market, given the right market conditions.

Despite being sold in a minuscule number in India, the Toyota Hilux is finding a slow but gradually growing footprint here. The pickup truck even outsold the Maruti Suzuki Jimny in January this year by registering 289 units, as compared to just 163 units the SUV recorded.

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Aflac IncorporatedBy Authority Magazine Editorial StaffOriginally published on Authority MagazineSuccess is earned, not given. I've noticed that every successful person I've known, regardless of gender, race or other circumstances, has worked extremely hard and endured major setbacks. Expecting success without demonstrating commitment is presumptuous.As a part of our series about " Life and Leadership Lessons Learned In The Military ," we had the pleasure of interviewing Virgil Miller.Virgil Miller, who joined Aflac in 2004, was named President of Aflac U.S. in January 2023. In his current role, Virgil leads all aspects of operations in the U.S. market. He is responsible for setting strategy and managing performance for Aflac's multiple business segments and product sets in the United States, including Individual and Group Voluntary Benefits, Dental and Vision, and Life and Disability Solutions.A former U.S. Marine who served in Operation Desert Storm, Virgil embarked on his professional career as a call center employee and worked his way up, holding several leadership positions during his time at Aflac. He is known for his ability to motivate teams and achieve results, as well as his passion for delivering innovative and caring customer experiences. He embodies Aflac's mission to provide "care on purpose" by helping customers attain financial freedom and providing philanthropic support to underserved communities. Thank you so much for doing this with us! Can you tell us a bit about your childhood "backstory"?rowing up in rural Georgia, in a small town outside of Macon, my life revolved around my family and my faith. I was always good at math and good with numbers, so when I was 12, I joined the finance committee at my church. In retrospect, this experience - collecting money, writing checks and being accountable for paying the church's bills - laid the foundation for the career I have today.I made the decision to join the Marines when I was in 11th grade, but it had always been something I had considered. My father served in the Army and had encouraged me to join the military to gain discipline and get financial assistance to go to college. From the time I was very young, I always aspired to have a professional career - to work with numbers and be a businessman. I never could have imagined how challenging and fulfilling my career journey has been, leading me to my current role at Aflac.And what are you doing today? Can you share a story that exemplifies the unique work that you are doing?In my current role, I oversee all U.S. operations for Aflac - everything from finance and technology to products and marketing. I joined Aflac in 2004 and have held roles across nearly all our workstreams, which gives me a holistic viewpoint of the company and the ability to bring people and teams together to "connect the dots," innovate and collaborate. One of our biggest priorities at Aflac right now is incorporating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence to make the process of filing claims more efficient for our customers. At the same time, we're conscious of the fact that, as an insurance company, customers often reach out to us on their worst days. Our call center employees are on the frontlines of providing care to our customers when they need it most. Our goal is to implement technology that makes their jobs easier so they can focus on what they do best - providing reassurance and empathy to our customers during their time of need.When I started my current role, one of the first things I did was ask all our company managers to file a claim - to literally go to Aflac's website, click through the process, read each instruction, and follow each prompt. Putting ourselves in our customers shoes allows us to show up better for them. For example, we recently decided that, when one of our customers contact us with a cancer diagnosis, the specialist they speak with that day is their specialist for the duration of their treatment. Cancer is one of the most disruptive medical events a person can go through, and having a familiar person who is dedicated to guiding them through the process is one small way we can ease what is a very heavy burden.Can you tell us a bit about your military background?My time was spent in the marines as an active duty marine and active reservist. I was called into duty and served in operation desert storm. Upon returning home, I finished my time as a reservist and then transitioned into corporate America, where I have worked since. I feel very fortunate to have my experience in the marines as there were incredible lessons and learnings that I still use and apply to what I do every day.Can you share the most interesting story that you experienced during your military career? What "take away" did you learn from that story?My Marine Corps drill instructor was right out of Full Metal Jacket - loud, intimidating and profane. Then, one day, another man in our basic training group attempted suicide. After binding his wounds, and while waiting for the medics, the drill instructor cradled the young man in his arms and said, "It's alright, son. You're fine. We're getting you out of here. It'll be okay." It was the warmest, sweetest voice - a voice I would have insisted, prior to that night, could never come from that man. And it revealed compassion and tenderness of which I thought him incapable. After that, he was no longer a "type" in my eyes, but a three-dimensional, full human being.This experience made me realize that the tough, impenetrable drill instructor I knew was an act. It was an identity he put on, like a hat. In the military, and in business, sometimes you need to play the part. There are qualities and attributes you must embody in order to be successful. And just as important is knowing when to drop the act and meet people where they are, human to human.I graduated number-one in my basic training program, in part because I embraced the persona of a Marine - tough, rambunctious, courageous. This lesson has carried over to my professional career as well - I believe authenticity is important, and that you should be yourself at work, but you also need behave in a way that's appropriate to your role (and the role you want to have).We are interested in fleshing out what a hero is. Did you experience or hear about a story of heroism, during your military experience? Can you share that story with us? Feel free to be as elaborate as you'd like.Based on that story, how would you define what a "hero" is? Can you explain?Does a person need to be facing a life and death situation to do something heroic or to b
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MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Athena Bitcoin Global (OTC PINK:ABIT) ("Athena" or the "Company) a leading international operator of bitcoin ATMs and digital asset fintech solutions announced today that it has engaged investor relations specialists MZ Group ("MZ") to lead their comprehensive strategic investor relations and financial communications program.MZ Group will work closely with Athena's management to build upon their investor relations and shareholder communication program.Brian Prenoveau, CFA, Managing Director at MZ North America, will assist Athena Bitcoin in all facets of corporate and financial communications. MZ has developed a distinguished reputation as a premier resource for institutional investors, brokers, analysts, and private investors.Athena Bitcoin operates an international network of Bitcoin ATMs and payment solutions. The company is dedicated to building open financial systems to serve the global community. Athena's solutions enable the freedom and opportunity to save, build, invest, spend, and to participate as sovereign individuals.Matias Goldenhorn, CEO of Athena Bitcoin stated, "We are focused on democratizing financial access to the masses at Athena. We believe that having MZ as a partner will aide us in serving our customers by broadening our message to the investment community." About MZ GroupMZ North America is the US division of MZ Group, a global leader in investor relations and corporate communications. MZ North America was founded in 1996 and provides full scale Investor Relations to both private and public companies across all industries. Supported by our exclusive onestopshop approach, MZ works with top management to support the clients' business strategy in six integrated product and service categories: 1) IR Consulting & Outreach - full service investor relations and roadshow services; 2) ESG iQ & Advisory - reporting technology platform and audit and reporting guidance; 3) SPAC Alpha IR+ & IPO Advisory - providing critical and timely guidance through business combinations and IPOs; 4) Financial & Social Media - lead generation and social media relations; 5) Market Intelligence - real time ownership monitoring; 6) Technology Solutions - webhosting, webcasting, conference calls, distribution services and board portals. MZ North America has a global footprint with offices located in New York, Chicago, San Diego, Aliso Viejo, Austin, Minneapolis, Taipei and Sao Paulo.About Athena Bitcoin Global.Athena Bitcoin Global operates an international network of Athena Bitcoin ATMs, which are free standing kiosks that permit customers to buy or sell Bitcoin in exchange for fiat currencies. The Company places its machines in convenience stores, shopping centers and other easily accessible locations in twenty-seven US states and territories, and in 4 countries in Central and South America. Athena Bitcoin Global's comprehensive fintech platform enables POS merchant payments powered by Athena Pay and the Company provides safe, reliable and personalized trading services through its Athena Plus services. To learn more visit www.athenabitcoin.com or follow Athena Bitcoin Global on Twitter and LinkedIn.Contact:Brian M. Prenoveau, CFA, 561 489 5315MZ Group - MZ North America ABIT@ mzgroup.us SOURCE: Athena Bitcoin Global
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LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Global real estate advisor CBRE has today announced that Sustainability leader, David Maguire, has been appointed Head of Occupier Sustainability & ESG, Continental Europe.In this new role, David will be responsible for leading CBRE's Sustainability services offering for its occupier clients across Continental Europe. He will focus on expanding the suite of services the company delivers, in order to address the rapidly developing Sustainability and ESG needs of corporate real estate.Having previously worked in the Occupier ESG team in the UK, supporting an extensive network of corporate clients including Marks & Spencer, GSK, and Maersk, David will now be part of the Continental Europe Sustainability and ESG team, led by Ludovic Chambe. He will work closely with Einar Schiefloe, Head of Occupier Services, Continental Europe & Nordics, as well as our 270 Sustainability and ESG experts, operating across 22 European countries, driving the transformational strategy and implementation of Sustainability solutions to fulfil clients' environmental and social ambitions.David brings a wealth of experience with Occupier clients, enhancing our ability to advise companies on how to navigate future challenges and opportunities. He's an inspiring advocate for Sustainability and a leader who has the ability to translate what's coming into tangible actions for the here and now. I'm hugely excited at the prospect of working with David and driving real change together.Ludovic Chambe, Head of ESG & Sustainability Services, Continental Europe at CBREI am delighted to be joining the team in Europe, helping the organisations we work with to meet their Sustainability targets through real estate; and doing so at a scale which means tangible impact on global Sustainability goals and combatting climate change. This new role brings the opportunity to continue to collaborate closely with our global occupier community whilst expanding our Sustainability offering in the ambitious European context, where our in-country teams have an incredible breadth of skills and expertise we can capitalise on.David Maguire, Head of Occupier Sustainability & ESG, Continental Europe, CBRERead more about this appointment hereView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from CBRE Group, Inc. on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: CBRE Group, Inc.Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cbre-group-inc Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: CBRE Group, Inc.
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SAN JOSE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 /DuploCloud, the industry pioneer for DevOps automation and built-in compliance, announced its presence at four key industry events in April 2024. These include:DuploCloud Logo DuploCloud Logo Empire Fintech Conference, April 10, New York INNOVATEwest, April 16-17, Vancouver eMerge Americas, April 18-19, Miami Global Conference, April 23-24, Redwood City, CAAs a premier exhibitor at these events, DuploCloud extends an invitation to attendees to discover the cutting-edge capabilities of its DevOps Automation platform. Positioned at the forefront of technological innovation, DuploCloud is set to showcase its revolutionary solutions that streamline operations, enhance security, and promote growth across various sectors. At each conference, attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with DuploCloud's team of experts who will demonstrate the platform's revolutionary capabilities. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how DuploCloud's solutions optimize DevOps operations, fostering efficiency, and driving growth for businesses.DuploCloud Key Benefits:Security: DuploCloud ensures compliance with HIPAA, HITRUST, PCI, ISO, and other security standards, helping health tech and fintech organizations secure electronic protected information (ePHI) and implement robust encryption mechanisms. This focus on security is critical for companies dealing with sensitive data, ensuring they can trust DuploCloud to safeguard their operations. Support: With white glove support from an experienced team, DuploCloud assists health tech and fintech organizations in navigating the cloud landscape. This includes obtaining necessary security certifications and optimizing cloud infrastructure for enhanced performance, compliance and reliability. Flexibility: DuploCloud's platform facilitates running applications in Kubernetes across major cloud providers. It supports initiatives like enhancing DevOps pipelines and adopting new cloud services for AI/ML or data warehousing, showcasing the platform's versatility across different technological needs and cloud environments. Integration: Offering seamless integration with clients' Identity Providers (IdP) for portal access as well as other third-party software solutions, DuploCloud ensures a frictionless user experience.DuploCloud's platform significantly reduces time to market and generates cost savings, thanks to its no-code/low-code approach. This empowers developers, minimizes human error, and ensures the provision of secure, compliant cloud infrastructure across sectors.To schedule a meeting with DuploCloud at any of these events or to learn more about their industry-leading DevOps automation solutions, visit https://duplocloud.com/company/contact-us/ About DuploCloud DuploCloud is the industry's only low-code/no-code Platform Engineering solution, designed to make DevOps and Infrastructure-as-Code accessible for all developers. Founded by the original engineers from Microsoft Azure and AWS, our software platform puts DevOps on autopilot, virtually eliminating the need for DevOps hiring and is tailor-made to empower developer self-service across growing startups, SMBs, and platform engineering teams. The DuploCloud platform translates high-level application specifications into meticulously managed cloud configurations, allowing organizations to streamline operations while maintaining rigorous security, availability, and compliance standards. Investors of the company include WestBridge Capital, StepStone Group, Mayfield and Monta Vista Capital. Learn more at https://duplocloud.com/ Contact Information Kate PietrelliPRkate@ pathadvisors.co 760-518-2633SOURCE: DuploCloudView the original press release on newswire.com
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Navigating the New Regulatory Environment for Corporate Sustainability DisclosuresNEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc. (G&A), a leader in corporate sustainability consulting and research, is pleased to announce its 2024 Pathfinder Webinar Series. Registration is now open for the first segment of the series to be held on Wednesday, April 24.Click here to register.Participants will dive into an ocean of knowledge, with the G&A team and guest experts helping to demystify the shifting tides of sustainability reporting and regulatory compliance. This essential series will provide the latest insights, practical strategies, and tactics to address requirements and navigate the rapidly changing landscape of global sustainability disclosure and reporting - not just in the U.S. but also in Europe and globally.Each segment of the series is tailored to meet the needs of U.S. corporate executives and managers in areas including finance, accounting, investor relations, public affairs, legal affairs, ERM, and sustainability.2024 PATHFINDER WEBINAR SERIESMaking Connections: EU Regulations - Impact on US Companies Divided into three parts, each segment will offer a deep exploration of EU regulations and their significant implications for U.S. companies.Making Connections 1: Placing CSRD in the Context of the EU Regulatory Landscape Wednesday, April 24th @ 1PM EST (60 min) The CSRD is a natural progression of pre-existing EU legislation and a significant step forward for achieving long-term EU sustainability and climate goals. Recognizing this context allows us to better understand the intent behind CSRD and gain useful insight into how the regulatory landscape may continue to evolve. Peter Paul van de Wijs, Chief Policy Officer of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) will be joining this segment of the series and will address the impacts on U.S. companies. Making Connections 2: Cross-Cutting ESRS Reporting Requirements Wednesday, May 15th @ 1PM EST (45 min) Examines the specific requirements contained in the ESRS with a particular focus on the cross-cutting, mandatory ESRS 1 General Requirements and ESRS 2 General Disclosures. These general standards are foundational to ESRS reporting, and understanding their intricacies and interconnections will set the stage for successful ESRS implementation. Making Connections 3: Topical ESRS & GRI Standards Wednesday, May 22nd @ 1PM EST (45 min) Highlights the ten topical ESRS and provides a simple method for breaking down the requirements contained in each. Explores the interconnectivity and usefulness of GRI Standards disclosures, and other common standards, for ESRS implementation. The SEC, California & Other Climate Disclosure RulesWednesday, June 12th @ 1PM EST (60 min) This segment will look at recent and important climate disclosure rules including the SEC's final climate disclosure rules, California State's climate disclosure rules - such as SB 253, the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, SB 261, and AB 1305 - and potential regional regulations from other states such as New York and Illinois. Speakers will guide attendees through the intricacies of these diverse regulations, highlighting their similarities and differences in how they address climate goals, risk management, and offset strategies. Sustainability professionals will gain the knowledge needed to effectively align their strategies with multiple regulatory standards. IFRS' ISSB Reporting StandardsFall 2024 - To Be Announced This segment delves into the IFRS International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) and its emerging standards. We will specifically focus on the global context of IFRS S1 and S2, discussing their implications and future developments in ISSB standards that are pertinent to U.S. companies. Participants will take away critical insights into how these international standards intersect with and influence U.S. reporting practices. COSO Controls for Sustainability InformationFall 2024 - To Be Announced Featuring Shari Littan, JD, CPA, the lead author of the COSO interpretive guidance, "Achieving Effective Internal Control Over Sustainability Reporting," on its way to becoming the generally accepted for designing and implanting controls over sustainability reporting (ICSR). This segment will focus on the unique informational risks related to sustainability reporting and the critical need for robust processes, controls, and oversight systems. Attendees will recognize the importance of these controls in delivering information that is reliable and trustworthy and in accordance with current regulatory standards.The Pathfinder Webinar Series is designed to inform and empower corporate reporters with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of both domestic and international sustainability reporting.It is a must-attend for professionals seeking to plan and stay ahead in the dynamic field of global sustainability reporting and to ensure their company's reporting practices are robust, relevant, and resonant on the world stage.The G&A team invites you to join us on this enlightening journey through the new regulatory environment for sustainability disclosures. Be informed and be prepared!Click here to register.To keep up with additional information about the series and to sign up, please visit: https://www.ga-institute.com/webinar/pathfinder-series.html ABOUT GOVERNANCE & ACCOUNTABILITY INSTITUTE, INC.(www.ga-institute.com) Founded in 2006, Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc. (G&A) is a sustainability consulting and research firm headquartered in New York City. G&A helps corporate and investor clients recognize, understand, and develop winning strategies for sustainability and ESG issues to address stakeholder and shareholder concerns. G&A's proprietary, comprehensive full-suite process for sustainability reporting is designed to help organizations achieve sustainability leadership in their industry and sector and maximize return on investment for sustainability initiatives.Since 2011, G&A has been building and expanding a comprehensive database of corporate sustainability reporting data based on analysis of thousands of ESG and sustainability reports to help steer strategy for our clients and improve their disclosure and reporting.CONTACT:Louis D. CoppolaExecutive Vice President & Co-Founder Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc. Tel 646.430.8230 ext 14 Emaillcoppola@ ga-institute.com View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc. on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc.Website:
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CHEYENNE, WY / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / The MFB Value-Add Wildfire Risk Reduction Team saw a need for a great awakening in the Architecture and Building Industry as it relates to the Fire Insurance Crisis, which is impacting the entire Western U.S. Accordingly, MFB was motivated to create and publish this Accredited Course for Architects through AEC Daily Corporation for Continuing Education Credits to finally bring true accreditation to what has been a "wild west anything goes" atmosphere in the use of wildfire defense sprinkler systems. The MFB course teaches the specification, layout and installation of environmentally safe technology for proactive wildfire defense during the initial construction phase. U.S,. building codes have provided guidance on protecting buildings and occupants from the effects of fire. Only recently, have these building codes included hardening the exterior envelope, roofs and sidings to defend them from wind-driven fire embers.MFB was founded in California and is based there, has been awarded the EPA Safer Choice Product Parter of the Year Award. Its fire inhibitor CitroTech is the cleanest, safest fire chemistry in the world and the only EPA Safer Choice approved. Now that there is a product on the market that fits the profile needed to hopefully be accepted by the insurance industry to relook at wildfire prevention and to initiate change.Many home insurers are scaling back coverage in the Western States, enrollment is surging in California's "backstop" insurance plans, and these backstop plan's risk sustaining losses that they can not cover. In fact, the potential losses of these insurers recently prompted CA Governor Gavin Newsom to issue an executive order commanding the California Insurance Commissioner to take action. These actions taken, included addressing issues with the insurance market and expanding coverage options for consumers. According to recent news, California's Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara's response to the crisis has been to set new rules that would allow insurers to raise rates. In this regard, now that the AIA and the U.S. GreenBuild Council has endorsed the CE course mentioned herein, the State of California, other states at wildfire risk, and even the Federal Government should consider and pass into law a Tax Credit for property owners who install an approved wildfire defense system, much like solar panel tax credits. Such a Tax Credit would incentivize property owners to invest in protecting their homes and other structures against loss due to wildfire.The Government and the Insurance Industry can play a role in slowing this crisis, but the solution can only come from the Building Industry. In this regard, here is a case in point: After the Northridge Earthquake, the building industry was forced to embrace change when it came to lateral strength engineering to address seismic activity risk. It was leading insurance companies, such as Berkshire Insurance that embraced this new earthquake risk reduction engineering.Architects, Engineers and Designers are learning about the Mighty Fire Breaker Engineered Wildfire Defense Systems with CitroTech in this AEC Daily Course. Hopefully this has set the stage, and the time for states and the Federal Government to support a WFD System Tax Credit. MFB looks to have significant numbers of Architects, Engineers and Designers take the course over the next few months.For additional information, photos, and footage from the event or to learn more about Mighty Fire Breaker's technology and mission, please contact:For more information, please visit www.mightyfirebreaker.com For technical product information: Info@ mightyfirebreaker.com Contact InformationTwitter@GEVIOfficialWebsite:  https://generalenterpriseventures.com/ Forward Looking Statements:This document contains "forward-looking statements", which includes statements regarding expected financial performance and growth information relating to future events. Forward-looking statements include statements with respect to beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, anticipations, assumptions, estimates, intentions, and future performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond the control of the Company and its officers and directors, and which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by which, that performance or those results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time they are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in, or suggested by, the forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be forward-looking statements. You can typically identify these forward-looking statements through use of words such as "may," "will," "can" "anticipate," "assume," "should," "indicate," "would," "believe," "contemplate," "expect," "seek," "estimate," "continue," "plan," "point to," "project," "predict," "could," "intend," "target," "potential," and other similar words and expressions of the future. The Company expresses its expectations, beliefs and projections in good faith and believes that its expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions. However, there is no assurance that these expectations, beliefs and projections will prove to have been correct.SOURCE: General Enterprise Ventures, Inc. ("GEVI")
Beijing (Gasgoo)- Dongfeng Motor on March 26 disclosed on its WeChat account that Myanmar's VIGERE TRADING had reached a cooperation intention with Dongfeng Nissan's Venucia brand, paving the way for the introduction of the Venucia VX6 model into the Myanmar market.

Photo credit: Dongfeng Motor

In 2023, Chinese passenger cars have seen remarkable growth in overseas markets, particularly in Southeast Asian left-hand drive countries, guided by the "Belt and Road" initiative, making them prime destinations for Chinese automotive brands to expand abroad.

Currently, Myanmar has a relatively low per capita car ownership rate. With policy support, there is significant potential for the local electric vehicle market to experience rapid development. Dongfeng Motor stated that exporting Venucia vehicles to Myanmar will swiftly open up the market, offering local consumers more product choices.

Following market entry, Venucia plans to deepen its export projects by enhancing the competitiveness of the VX6, boosting sales and market performance. Additionally, the company will fully support VIGERE TRADING in rapidly establishing marketing and service capabilities, fostering mutual growth for the Venucia brand and VIGERE TRADING in the Myanmar market, achieving a win-win situation.

According to the plan, Venucia will expedite product introduction, expand channel development, and enhance system support in the future to seize overseas market opportunities and continuously expand its overseas business footprint.
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Jolt Health Inc. ("JOLT" and or "the Company") (CSE:JOLT)(FSE:G1Q0) announces it has closed its previously announced non-brokered private placement. The Company accepted subscriptions for 50,000,000 units at a price of $0.01 per unit (the "Units") for gross proceeds of $500,000 (the "Financing").One insider of the Company subscribed for an aggregate of 1,500,000 units of the Company. The Company has relied on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of such insider participation.Pursuant to the terms of the Financing, each Unit consists of one common share in the equity of the Company and one half common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional common share of the Company at a price of $0.05 per share for a period of two (2) years from the closing of the Financing, subject to the option of the Company to accelerate the expiry date in the event that its shares trade at $0.15 or more for 10 consecutive days.Securities issued are subject to trading restrictions until July 28, 2024.Proceeds will be used for general working capital and repayment of debt, except accrued salaries to officers or directors or payment for investor relations.About Jolt Health Inc. Jolt Health Inc. (CSE:JOLT) is a leading life sciences company focused on healthcare, biotechnology and artificial intelligence. The company currently holds exclusive licenses for innovative therapeutic and pharmaceutical products throughout Europe, the UK, and North America. The company is committed to transforming the industry through research, collaboration, and technological advancement, shaping the future of healthcare worldwide.For further information, please contact:Investor RelationsTelephone: 1 (604) 343-2977E-mail: info@ jolt-health.comwww.jolt-health.com Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Forward-Looking Statements Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates", "may" or "believes" or "variations" (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, risks relating to epidemics or pandemics such as COVID-19, including the impact of COVID-19 on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations, lack of investor demand for Bitcoin and/or Bitcoin futures exchange traded funds, and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.SOURCE: Jolt Health Inc.
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RADNOR, PA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP informs investors that today the firm has filed a securities fraud class action lawsuit against agilon health, inc. (NYSE:AGL) ("agilon" or the "Company") on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired agilon common stock between November 4, 2022, and January 4, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action, captioned Hope v. agilon health, inc., et al., Case No. 1:24-cv-00305, is filed in the United States District Court for the Western District Texas.Important Deadline Reminder: There is one related class action case pending against agilon in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas. That first-filed action issued a notice of its filing pursuant to the federal securities laws which triggered the deadline of May 20, 2024, for any investors who purchased agilon common stock to seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class. The filing of the Hope Action does not change the May 20, 2024, lead plaintiff deadline.CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR AGILON LOSSES. YOU CAN ALSO CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK OR COPY AND PASTE IN YOUR BROWSER: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/agilon-health-inc?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=agl&mktm=r CANNOT VIEW THIS VIDEO? PLEASE CLICK HERELEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE: MAY 20, 2024CLASS PERIOD: NOVEMBER 4, 2022, THROUGH JANUARY 4, 2024CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TO DISCUSS YOUR RIGHTS:Jonathan Naji, Esq. (484) 270-1453 or Email at info@ ktmc.com DEFENDANTS' MISCONDUCTagilon is a healthcare and technology company that acts as an intermediary between physician groups that provide medical services to senior citizens and Medicare and Medicare Advantage insurers. One of agilon's key financial metrics is "medical margin," which the Company defines as medical services revenue less medical services expenses.The Class Period begins on November 4, 2022, when agilon announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2022 (filed after the market closed the prior evening). In connection with these results, Defendant Sell (agilon's CEO) emphasized the Company's "[m]embership, revenue and medical margins were above the high end of our guidance ranges" and indicated that, "[t]his year, we are driving substantial growth in medical margin PMPM [per member per month]." Defendant Bensley (agilon's CFO) stated that, "[f]or the full year 2022, we have raised our membership, revenue and medical margin outlook to reflect the strong performance in our [Medicare Advantage] business." Throughout the Class Period, Defendants repeatedly touted the strength of agilon's medical margin. Additionally, Defendants downplayed the significant cost pressures on the Company's medical margin and profitability. For example, on June 7, 2023, just days before other health insurers such as UnitedHealth Group Inc. and Humana Inc. reported significant increases in medical costs, Defendant Bensley, speaking at an analyst-sponsored healthcare conference, reported that Defendants "expect this year to generate somewhere around $550 million of medical margin," noting that the Company has seen "steady progress on medical margin upwards." Investors began to learn the truth about the cost pressures impacting agilon's medical margin and profitability on November 2, 2023, when the Company announced its third quarter 2023 financial results after the market closed. Critically, agilon reported a net loss of $31 million for the third quarter of 2023 and slashed its fiscal year 2023 medical margin to a range between $455 million and $470 million. Defendant Sell also assured investors that agilon's more conservative approach to guidance "should reduce the risk of negative claims development next year." On this news, the price of agilon common stock declined $3.78 per share, or more than 22% over two trading-days, from a close of $16.89 per share on November 2, 2023, to close at $13.11 per share on November 6, 2023.After several additional disclosures in November 2023, investors more fully learned the truth about the cost pressures on agilon's medical margin and profitability before the market opened on January 5, 2024, when agilon updated its fiscal year 2023 financial results and provided its initial outlook for 2024. Critically, agilon further slashed its 2023 medical margin guidance more than $100 million, to a range between $340 million and $360 million, due to "higher-than-expected medical costs." This represented a decline of more than 34% from the $550 million in medical margin it had predicted. On the related investor guidance call, Defendant Sell acknowledged that agilon "failed to recognize these elevated cost trends" and had "a data and analytics gap that led to [the Company] being late in both recognizing the magnitude and source of the utilization shifts." Defendant Sell further indicated that the increased cost trends were expected to persist through 2024. Also on January 5, 2024, Defendant Bensley announced that he would retire in 2024. On this news, the price of agilon common stock plummeted $3.45 per share, or nearly 29%, from a close of $12.08 per share on January 4, 2024, to close at $8.63 per share on January 5, 2024.WHAT CAN I DO?agilon investors may, no later than May 20, 2024, move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff for the class, through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP or other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages agilon investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASEWHO CAN BE A LEAD PLAINTIFF?A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff.ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLPKessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of o
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NEW HAVEN, CT / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Liberty Community Services of New Haven has been awarded a two-year $120,000 grant from KeyBank Foundation, the charitable foundation of KeyBank, to support the organization's mission of "Getting People Home". KeyBank's funding will help provide support and transportation services vital to moving people from homelessness to housed. In particular, the funding will assist Liberty in purchasing vehicles critical to making outreach to tenants and clients in the community possible, enabling them to serve more than 2,400 people a year."Liberty Community Services is serving more people today than ever before - the homeless and housing needs of our community has never been more critical," said Liberty Community Services' Executive Director Jim Pettinelli. "The timing of this generous grant of $120,000 from the Key Bank Foundation could not be better, and we are so grateful." Pettinelli went on to say, "This grant will make a difference in our collective efforts to offer more people a path to housing and stability. Liberty, our board, our staff, community partners, and clients appreciate KeyBank's amazing support in this important work. This grant is truly an investment in solutions that offers hope to our entire community." Liberty Community Services serves people in the Greater New Haven area that are experiencing homelessness, at risk of homelessness, experiencing some type of housing instability, or receiving assistance through one of Liberty's programs - permanent supportive housing (congregate, scattered site), rapid re-housing (transitional supportive housing for up to 24 months), outreach & engagement, or short-term/one-time support related to homelessness prevention, rental start-up or shelter diversion. Their biggest dedication of services is focused on serving those who are experiencing chronic homelessness. They also serve those living with serious comorbidities, like HIV disease, mental illness and/or addiction."KeyBank joins Liberty Community Services in the belief that everyone in our community should have safe and affordable housing. As a community-minded bank, we are committed to providing access to capital and support to neighborhoods and neighbors who often face unfair financial barriers," said KeyBank's Market President Matthew Hummel. "We are pleased to provide financial assistance to Liberty to enable them to expand support and transportation resources needed to help individuals and families achieve stable, permanent homes." KeyBank Foundation grants are part of a $40 billion commitment for lending and investments across Key's national footprint established in 2017 and supporting affordable housing and community development projects, home, and small business lending in low- and-moderate income communities, and philanthropic efforts targeted toward education, workforce development, and safe, vital neighborhoods.On March 19th, leaders from KeyBank made a check presentation to staff and clients of Liberty Community Services at their facility at 210 State Street in New Haven.About Liberty Community Services, Inc.Liberty Community Services' mission is to end homelessness in Greater New Haven. We offer services to those experiencing and at risk of homelessness who are living with HIV disease, mental illness and/or addiction. Liberty provides scattered-site supportive housing, comprehensive supportive housing in congregate sites, work development programing, flexible rental start-up and homelessness prevention funding, and innovative outreach and referral services that help individuals and families navigate our community's complex system of care.About KeyBank Foundation:KeyBank Foundation serves to fulfill KeyBank's purpose to help clients and communities thrive, and its mission is to support organizations and programs that prepare people for thriving futures. The Foundation's mission is advanced through three funding priorities - neighbors, education, and workforce - and through community service. To provide meaningful philanthropy that transforms lives, KeyBank Foundation listens carefully to understand the unique characteristics and needs of its communities and then backs solutions with targeted philanthropic investments. KeyBank Foundation is a nonprofit charitable foundation, funded by KeyCorp.About KeyCorpKeyCorp's roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation's largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $188 billion at December 31, 2023. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/ . KeyBank is Member FDICMedia contact: Karen Crane, KeyBank | 203-789-2752 | karen_crane@ keybank.com Liberty Community Services Executive Director Jim Pettinelli (center) receives a grant in the amount of $120,000 from KeyBank Foundation, presented by KeyBank leaders (from left) Vanity Bryant, Consumer Consultant; Dwayne Hicks, Branch Manager; Tracy Menges, Regional Community Sales Manager; Elona Shape, Market Retail Leader; Matthew Hummel, Market President; and Rachael Sampson, Director of Community Banking. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from KeyBank on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: KeyBankWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/keybankEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: KeyBank
PR-Inside.com: 2024-03-27 00:00:18

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As Australian businesses look to keep pace with the biggest trends in 2024, Liberty has solutions to help business owners stay up to date.MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / March 26, 2024 / The Australian Government has detailed its top business trends for 2024, highlighting the focus areas for those businesses looking to get and stay ahead.The key trends for the coming months include improving sustainability, adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI), and increasing resilience.Leading lender Liberty has outlined how a flexible lending solution could support the growth plans of business owners choosing to leverage these trends.According to Head of Communications Kate Jenkinson, a business loan can play a pivotal role in implementing business improvements."In 2024, businesses need to prepare for anything, which means being flexible and adaptable," Ms Jenkinson said."Liberty's suite of business loans caters to the unique needs of business owners looking to invest in their future." Liberty offers a range of lending solutions with fast turnaround times, designed to support business customers to secure funds when required."For more than 26 years, Liberty has supported borrowers with free-thinking loans to help them get closer to their goals - and we'll continue striving to help businesses of all shapes and sizes secure the funds they need to thrive." Recognising that no two borrowers are alike, Liberty takes the time to individually assess each loan application and focus on the big picture. For those who may not fit traditional lending criteria, this may have a significant impact on the success of their application.Whether for short term financial needs or long-term expansion strategies, Liberty business loans can help to open more doors."With decades of experience working with business owners, Liberty has the expertise to provide solutions that work for their unique needs," said Ms Jenkinson.About Liberty As one of Australia's leading non-bank lenders, Liberty offers innovative solutions to support customers with greater choice. Over more than 26 years, this free-thinking approach to loan solutions has seen more than 850,000 customers across a wide range of home, car, personal and business loans, as well as SMSF lending and insurance products. Liberty remains the only non-bank lender with an investment-grade credit rating offering custom and prime solutions to help more people get financial.Approved applicants only. Lending criteria apply. Fees and charges are payable. Liberty Financial Pty Ltd ACN 077 248 983 and Secure Funding Pty Ltd ABN 25 081 982 87 2 Australian Credit Licence 388133, together trading as Liberty Financial.Contact Information: Kate JenkinsonManager - Group Communications+61 3 8635 8892 mediaenquiries@ liberty.com.au SOURCE: Liberty
PR-Inside.com: 2024-03-27 12:30:25

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SPARKS, NV / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Ludwig Enterprises, Inc, (OTC PINK:LUDG): A US-based biotechnology company is pleased to announce that its subsidiary Exousia AI is funding a preclinical study on Glioblastoma (GBM), an incurable brain cancer. The study is being done in the lab of Dr. Kiminobu Sugaya PhD, Head of Neuroscience, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central florida, Orlando, Florida. Dr. Sugaya and his research team are developing a more effective way to treat GBM, an aggressive, incurable form of brain cancer.GBM accounts for 48% of all primary malignant brain tumors and is by far the most aggressive brain cancer with an average lifespan of 12-14 months after diagnosis, if not treated. This devastating brain cancer does not distinguish between people, young or old. Well known individuals who have died of GBM include, Beau Biden, John McCain and Ted Kennedy.New research led by Dr. Sugaya, a stem cell researcher and neuroscientist, found that targeting a drug resistant mechanism in cancer stem cells significantly enhanced the efficacy of traditional cancer therapies - making them four times more effective against GBM. Current FDA-approved drugs kill less than 25% of glioblastoma cancer stem cells (CSCs). The study sponsored by Exousia AI will employ this unique strategy and potentially increase the efficacy of Merck's FDA approved drug Temozolomide in the treatment of GBM by 400%.Marvin S. Hausman MD, CEO, stated: "I have thoroughly analyzed Dr. Sugaya's exosome-based targeted drug delivery system many times, and the potential that this breakthrough technology offers. We are embarking on a revolutionary new development in medicine." About UCF Glioblastoma Study:About Ludwig Enterprises, Inc.:Ludwig Enterprises, Inc., a biotech and healthcare holding company, is a global leader in mRNA genomics and machine learning AI technology. Our mission is to identify, monitor and create solutions to prevent chronic inflammation, the causative agent of illnesses which are responsible for more than 50% of deaths worldwide. Exousia AI, a subsidiary has created an Exosomal Targeted Delivery Platform. This transformational technology will lead to the creation of new therapeutics and improve the efficacy of existing treatments.For more information please visit: http://www.ludwigent.com SAFE HARBORForward-looking statements in this release are made under the "safe harbor" provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Ludwig Enterprises Inc.'s forward-looking statements do not guarantee future performance. This news release includes forward-looking statements concerning the future level of business for the parties. These statements are necessarily subject to risk and uncertainty. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements due to certain risk factors that could cause results to differ materially from estimated results. Management cautions that all statements as to future results of operations are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties, and events that may be beyond the control of Ludwig Enterprises, Inc., and no assurance can be given that such results will be achieved. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the ability to procure, appropriately price, retain, and complete projects and changes in products and competition.CONTACT:Ludwig Enterprises, Inc.Marvin S. Hausman MD, CEO CEO@ LUDG.USwww.ludwigent.com SOURCE: Ludwig Enterprises, Inc.
PR-Inside.com: 2024-03-27 21:30:15

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WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / MEMRI is honored to welcome renowned Manila-based economist and political scientist Andrew James Masigan as a special advisor to MEMRI's China Media Studies Project. Mr. Masigan is an economist, a businessman, and a political columnist for The Philippine Star. He is also board member of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.In his writings, Mr. Masigan warned about China's hegemonic and expansionist ambitions in the region. Mr. Masigan warned that if China is allowed to subsume the South China Sea, then the CCP would control the bulk of world trade and gain unprecedented economic and military control over the Indo-Pacific region. "Having dominion over Taiwan and the sea lanes is precisely the power base China needs to project its influence worldwide. It brings it one step closer to dethroning the U.S.," he stated.Concerning Taiwan, Mr. Masigan stressed that, in his New Year message, Chinese President Xi Jinping said that 2024 will be the year of reunification between China and Taiwan. In fact, Mr. Masigan wrote that China has been preparing for war: "This is evident in the wartime infrastructure they've built; in the changes they've made in their legal system; in the preparations to sanction-proof their economy; in their stockpile of fuel, essential raw materials and food and, most especially, in ensuring military readiness. China is telling the world of its intentions through its actions." According to Masigan, there are several factors that could trigger an invasion: "First, if [Taiwan's President-elect] Lai Ching-te declares independence from China. Second, for political reasons. China's economy is in bad shape and public dissent is on the rise. A war will distract the Chinese people whilst uniting them. Third, if the People's Liberation Army pressures Xi to invade now (rather than later) since the generals are aging and their preparations will soon be for naught. Fourth, the power struggles within the Chinese Communist Party become so dividing that a war is used to unite the party. Fifth, if China's grey zone intimidation tactics are met with armed response." In addition, Masigan stated that 2024 is an opportune time for China to make its move: "America faces a presidential election in November and the last thing the American electorate wants is to fight a war that is not theirs. The more support Biden extends to Taiwan, the less popular he becomes. So should China attack Taiwan this year, Biden will be politically constrained." As tensions are rising in the West Philippine Sea, Masigan stated that China's hostility towards the Philippines stems from the "Philippines' correct pivot to the axis of democracy." Commenting on the frequent China's water cannon attacks against Filipino vessels, Masigan stressed: "We must not take the frequent water cannon attacks like a sitting duck. I think Philippine National Security Secretary Eduardo Ano was wrong not to react. He should have fired back with water cannons since matching one type of aggression with the same cannot be considered escalation. Because, as I have said before, real escalation is to show weakness. Weakness is akin to an open invitation for China to act with impunity. A calculated retaliatory action works as strategic deterrence." Masigan suggested the Philippines must "de-risk" from China and "lean in" to partner countries with whom the country shares the same values, such as Japan.It is worth noting that the Philippines and the United States signed a Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) in 1951. The treaty has eight articles and requires both allies to defend each other if another party attacks the Philippines or the United States. Hence, one major accident provoked by China in the West Philippine Sea could trigger the U.S. or the Philippines to invoke the MDT.ABOUT MEMRI Exploring the Middle East and South Asia through their media, MEMRI bridges the language gap between the West and the Middle East and South Asia, providing timely translations of Arabic, Farsi, Urdu-Pashtu, Dari, Turkish, Russian, and Chinese media, as well as original analysis of political, ideological, intellectual, social, cultural, and religious trends.Founded in February 1998 to inform the debate over U.S. policy in the Middle East, MEMRI is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization. MEMRI's main office is located in Washington, DC, with branch offices in various world capitals. MEMRI research is translated into English, French, Polish, Japanese, Spanish and Hebrew.MEMRI - Middle East Media Research Institute: https://www.memri.org Contact Information: MEMRI media@ memri.org 202-955-9070 www.memri.org SOURCE: Middle East Media Research Institute
PR-Inside.com: 2024-03-27 15:02:18

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Magnus Financial Group LLC, a registered investment advisory (RIA) firm, is pleased to announce that its CEO & President, Michael S. Schwartz, CFP, AEP, has been named to the Forbes/SHOOK Top Financial Security Professionals for 2023."I'm honored to be named to the Top Financial Security Professional list for the third consecutive year," stated Michael Schwartz, CFP, AEP, adding, "This award recognizes wealth managers who holistically blend risk management with wealth management and I very much appreciate being recognized." This award adds to other recognition that Schwartz has received, including Forbes/SHOOK Best-In-State Wealth Advisors for the last five consecutive years, including 2023, Forbes/SHOOK Top Financial Security Professional in 2022 and 2021, WealthManagement.com's Thrive List of Fastest-Growing Advisors in 2019, and Financial Times' FT Top 400 Financial Advisor List back in 2017.In this ranking, SHOOK Research has evaluated more than 1,000 distinguished insurance specialists sorted by state who oversee client policies exceeding $1 trillion.The SHOOK process began by scouring the financial services industry, life insurance companies, banks, brokerages, agencies, custodians, and others for nominations. SHOOK accepted professionals who met predetermined minimum thresholds and acceptable compliance records. An FSP is a professional advisor who is properly licensed to sell life insurance and annuities. FSPs may also hold other credentials and licenses which would allow them to offer investments and securities products through those licenses. The full methodology can be viewed online.About Magnus Financial Group:Magnus Financial Group LLC is an SEC-registered, independent investment advisory firm located in New York City. Magnus provides customized wealth management and financial planning services for clients in all phases of their lives. As an independent RIA, Magnus provides high-quality service with a personalized client approach. Magnus was founded in 2017 and consists of a team of wealth advisors and personnel that supports a variety of departments, including investment and insurance operations, research and trading and compliance.For more information on Magnus Financial Group and our services, visit our website at http://www.magnusfinancial.com For media inquiries, please contact:Rachita Sharma of Blue Ocean at 917-720-3036Contact InformationRachita SharmaCMO, Blue Ocean Global Techrachita.sharma@blueoceanglobaltech.com (917) 720-3036SOURCE: Magnus Financial GroupView the original press release on newswire.com
PR-Inside.com: 2024-03-27 01:00:31

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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / March 26, 2024 / Mongolia Growth Group Ltd. (the "Company") (TSXV:YAK), announced today that TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") has accepted a Notice of Intention to renews its normal course issuer bid to purchase outstanding common shares of the Company on the open market in accordance with the policies of the TSXV.Pursuant to the NCIB, (the "Bid") the Company may acquire up to 1,760,000 common shares, approximately 9.97% of the 17,648,649 common shares constituting the Company's current Public Float (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange), from time to time during the next 12 months. In accordance with the Policies of the Exchange, the maximum number of common shares that may be purchased under the Bid in any 30-day period may not exceed 2% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company when aggregated with all other common shares purchased under the Bid in the preceding 30 days.The Company is undertaking the Bid because, in the opinion of its board of directors, the market price of its common shares, from time to time, may not fully reflect the underlying value of its operations and future growth prospects. The Company believes that in such circumstances, the purchase of the common shares of the Company may represent an appropriate and desirable use of the Company's funds and further enhance market stability.The Company has retained Research Capital Corp of Toronto, Ontario as its broker Member for the purposes of conducting the bid. The Bid will commence April 2, 2024 and the Bid will end no later than April 1, 2025. The common shares will be purchased for cancellation on the open market through the facilities of the Exchange, at market price. This transaction is subject to the TSX Venture Exchange approval.From March 27, 2023, to March 26, 2024, the Company purchased 1,213,400 of its shares at an average price of $1.40 under its most recently expired NCIB.For further information please contact: Genevieve Walkden, Corporate Secretary 877-644-1186 GWalkden@ MongoliaGrowthGroup.com This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although 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 or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include general economic, market and business conditions, the regulatory process and actions, regulator and corporate approvals, technical issues, new legislation, competitive and general economic factors and conditions, the uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans, the occurrence of unexpected events, and the Company's capability to execute and implement its future plans. Actual results may differ materially from those projected by management. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any 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. We seek safe harbour.The TSXV has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this Press release.SOURCE: Mongolia Growth Group Ltd.
PR-Inside.com: 2024-03-27 22:50:12

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TAMPA, FL / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / The Mosaic Company (NYSE:MOS) announced its combined January and February 2024 sales volumes and revenue by business unit.PotashJan/Feb 2024 Jan/Feb 2023 Sales volumes (000 tonnes(1) )1,417 1,100Sales revenues (million USD)$ 418 $ 542 PhosphatesJan/Feb 2024 Jan/Feb 2023 Sales volumes (000 tonnes(1) )1,087 1,066Sales revenues (million USD)$ 760 $ 827 Mosaic FertilizantesJan/Feb 2024 Jan/Feb 2023 Sales Volumes (000 tonnes(1) )1,238 1,462Sales Revenues (million USD)$ 650 $ 971 (1)Tonnes = finished product tonnesFor the first quarter, potash sales volumes and MOP prices at the mine are expected to be within the previous guidance range of 2.0-2.2 million tonnes, and $225-$250 per tonne, respectively.In Phosphates, first quarter sales volumes are expected to be within the previous guidance range of 1.6-1.8 million tonnes. Included in that estimate are 175,000 to 200,000 tonnes of low margin products purchased from third parties to offset the impact of our previously announced turnaround schedule in the first half of 2024. DAP prices at the plant are expected to be within the previous guidance range of $580-$605 per tonne.Looking ahead, our Riverview phosphate fertilizer production facility, which has a run rate of approximately 30,000 tonnes per week, sustained limited damage to ancillary operations from a brushfire earlier this week. Production impacts associated with the incident may last four to six weeks. At the time of the fire, the facility was configured to produce phosphate products primarily for export to Brazil.About The Mosaic Company The Mosaic Company is one of the world's leading producers and marketers of concentrated phosphate and potash crop nutrients. Mosaic is a single source provider of phosphates and potash fertilizers and feed ingredients for the global agriculture industry. More information on the company is available at www.mosaicco.com Mosaic will publish a market update on the company's investor relations website immediately after this press release. Mosaic - Market Education ( mosaicco.com) The Mosaic Company Contacts Investors: Media:Joan Tong, CFA, 863-640-0826 Ben Pratt, 813-775-4206 joan.tong@mosaicco.com Jason Tremblay 813-775-4226 jason.tremblay@mosaicco.com benjamin.pratt@mosaicco.com This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about proposed or pending future transactions or strategic plans and other statements about future financial and operating results. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of The Mosaic Company's management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: political and economic instability and changes in government policies in Brazil and other countries in which we have operations; the predictability and volatility of, and customer expectations about, agriculture, fertilizer, raw material, energy and transportation markets that are subject to competitive and other pressures and economic and credit market conditions; the level of inventories in the distribution channels for crop nutrients; the economic impact and operating impacts of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, the effect of future product innovations or development of new technologies on demand for our products; changes in foreign currency and exchange rates; international trade risks and other risks associated with Mosaic's international operations and those of joint ventures in which Mosaic participates, including the performance of the Wa'ad Al Shamal Phosphate Company (also known as MWSPC), the future success of current plans for MWSPC and any future changes in those plans; difficulties with realization of the benefits of our natural gas based pricing ammonia supply agreement with CF Industries, Inc., including the risk that the cost savings initially anticipated from the agreement may not be fully realized over its term or that the price of natural gas or ammonia during the term are at levels at which the pricing is disadvantageous to Mosaic; customer defaults; the effects of Mosaic's decisions to exit business operations or locations; changes in government policy; changes in environmental and other governmental regulation, including expansion of the types and extent of water resources regulated under federal law, carbon taxes or other greenhouse gas regulation, implementation of numeric water quality standards for the discharge of nutrients into Florida waterways or efforts to reduce the flow of excess nutrients into the Mississippi River basin, the Gulf of Mexico or elsewhere; further developments in judicial or administrative proceedings, or complaints that Mosaic's operations are adversely impacting nearby farms, business operations or properties; difficulties or delays in receiving, increased costs of or challenges to necessary governmental permits or approvals or increased financial assurance requirements; resolution of global tax audit activity; the effectiveness of Mosaic's processes for managing its strategic priorities; adverse weather conditions affecting operations in Central Florida, the Mississippi River basin, the Gulf Coast of the United States, Canada or Brazil, and including potential hurricanes, excess heat, cold, snow, rainfall or drought; actual costs of various items differing from management's current estimates, including, among others, asset retirement, environmental remediation, reclamation or other environmental regulation, Canadian resources taxes and royalties, or the costs of the MWSPC; reduction of Mosaic's available cash and liquidity, and increased leverage, due to its use of cash and/or available debt capacity to fund financial assurance requirements and strategic investments; brine inflows at Mosaic's potash mines; other accidents and disruptions involving Mosaic's operations, including potential mine fires, floods, explosions, seismic events, sinkholes or releases of hazardous or volatile chemicals; and risks associated with cyber security, including reputational loss; as well as other risks and uncertainties reported from time to time in The Mosaic Company's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.SOURCE: The Mosaic Company
PR-Inside.com: 2024-03-27 18:01:20

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WILLOW GROVE, PA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / The Philadelphia Phillies are excited to announce that Asplundh Tree Expert, a leading provider of safe, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable vegetation management and infrastructure services, has been named one of the team's "Official Community and Sustainability Partners of the Phillies." The new multi-year partnership with the family-owned Asplundh, which is headquartered in Willow Grove, Pa., is aimed at making an impact in the community and introducing fans to the company's environmentally sustainable vegetation management and other utility-related services. As one of the team's Official Community and Sustainability Partners, Asplundh will take a leading role in several key initiatives."For more than 95 years, Asplundh has served the utility industry, helping communities build, recover and thrive in a changing world," said Jackie Cuddeback, Phillies Senior Vice President of Partnership Sales, Suites Sales and Corporate Marketing. "We are thrilled to welcome Asplundh, a world leader in our own backyard, to the Phillies family as they join us in several important causes." "We're very excited to partner with the Phillies and are eager to work with the team to strengthen our long-standing ties to the Philadelphia community established over the last 95 years," said Asplundh CEO Matt Asplundh. "Sustainability and medical advancement in treating ALS are important initiatives to Asplundh, and we look forward to collaborating with the Phillies and the community to advance these goals." The new synergy will feature Asplundh as the proud sponsor of the Phillies Home Runs for Trees program, where for each home run hit by a Phillies player, a tree is planted in the Greater Philadelphia area by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. More than 2,000 trees have been planted in the community since the program started in 2012.Asplundh will also join the Phillies in their mission to strike out ALS as the new presenting sponsor for Phillies ALS Awareness Day on Sunday, June 2. That game will see the Phillies take on the St. Louis Cardinals at Citizens Bank Park. This ballpark-wide event is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for ALS research and care for families affected by ALS in the Delaware Valley.The company will have a prominent presence at Phillies home games, with signage at various locations, including behind home plate and in left field at Citizens Bank Park.Contact InformationPete Mazzaccaro Corporate Communications, Asplundhpmazzaccaro@ asplundh.com 215-784-4427Deb Rinaldi Director, Business Communications, Philadelphia Philliesdrinaldi@ phillies.com 267-408-9545SOURCE: AsplundhView the original press release on newswire.com
Cac trang web at cuoc truc tuyen tro thanh mot lua chon ang tin cay cho nhung ai muon tham gia vao hoat ong ca o bong a. Tuy nhien, voi su xuat hien cua nhieu trang web gia mao, viec lua chon mot noi ang tin e at cuoc co the gay ra su boi roi cho nhung nguoi moi bat au. Duoi ay la mot danh sach uoc cap nhat ve cac nha cai ca cuoc bong a hang au, hay tham khao ngay e tim ra noi phu hop nhat voi nhu cau ca nhan cua ban!

Ca o bong a la gi?

Ca o bong a ai dien cho mot dang ca cuoc, trong o nguoi choi su dung tien hoac cac tai san co gia tri e at cuoc vao ket qua du oan cua cac tran au bong a ang dien ra hoac sap dien ra.

Trong truong hop nguoi choi oan ung ket qua, ho se nhan uoc phan thuong tuong ung voi so tien ho a at cuoc. Tuy nhien, neu du oan sai, nguoi choi se phai chiu mat toan bo hoac mot phan tien cuoc, phu thuoc vao loai cuoc.

Co bao nhieu loai keo trong ca o bong a?

Hoat ong ca o bong a khong chi a dang ve cach thuc ma con mang lai su phong phu qua nhieu loai keo ca o. Ca trong truyen thong va online, chung ta se gap cac loai keo co ban sau ay:

Keo Chau A

Keo Chau A, con uoc biet en la keo chap chinh, la loai keo ma mot oi uoc anh gia la cua tren voi mot so iem trong tran au, trong khi oi oi thu uoc xem nhu duoi voi mot ty le keo co inh.

oi uoc coi la cua tren la oi uoc at truoc oi oi thu trong ty le chap (vi du: -0.5).

oi uoc coi la cua duoi la oi uoc at sau oi oi thu trong ty le chap (vi du: +1.5).

Neu ty le chap hien thi la 0, o co nghia la hai oi ang uoc xem la can keo, chi co su bien ong trong ty le cuoc.

Ca o bong a  Keo Chau Au

Trong cac trang ca o truc tuyen, keo Chau Au la mot lua chon pho bien ma ban co the de dang gap. Khi at cuoc theo keo Chau Au, ban khong can quan tam en ty so hoac so ban thang, chi luu y o ket qua cuoi cung cua tran au giua oi chu nha va oi khach, uoc bieu thi bang cac ky hieu 12.

1: oi nha thang

X: Hoa

2: oi khach thang

FT: Keo ca tran.

1H: Keo hiep 1

Keo Tai Xiu

Keo Tai Xiu, hay con goi la keo tren duoi, su dung ky hieu O/U viet tat cho Over/Under. Loai keo nay dua tren tong so ban thang uoc ghi boi ca hai oi trong mot hiep au hoac ca tran au.

Cua Tai (Over): at cuoc vao so luong ban thang du kien se vuot qua.

Cua Xiu (Under): at cuoc vao so luong ban thang du kien se it hon so ma nha cai ua ra.

Danh sach nha cai ca o bong a uoc anh gia cao tai Viet Nam

Lua chon mot ia iem ca o bong a tu nhung nha cai ang tin cay se la chia khoa giup ban thuan loi huong tien tu hoat ong ca cuoc. Hay nhanh chong tham khao danh sach cac trang web ca cuoc hang au hien nay e tham gia vao nhung tran au inh cao.

K9WIN  ia chi ang tin cay nhat cho viec ca o bong a

K9WIN, mot trong nhung thuong hieu nha cai hang au voi san choi ca o bong a uoc anh gia cao, a thu hut mot luong lon nguoi choi tai Viet Nam tu nam 2012. Voi su noi bat ve uy tin, minh bach trong cach hoat ong, noi ay a nhanh chong ghi dau an la mot cai ten quan trong trong cong ong nguoi choi ca cuoc bong a.

Uu iem  Nhuoc iem

Uu iem Nhuoc iem Tai chinh on inh, manh me. ang mo rong cap nhat cac phuong thuc thanh toan moi. Ty le cuoc canh tranh.

M88  Mot trang web ca o bong a truc tuyen uy tin

uoc cap phep hoat ong hop phap boi chinh phu Cong hoa Vanuatu tu nam 2013, M88 noi len nhu mot trong nhung nha cai hang au tai Chau A trong thoi gian gan ay. Voi giay phep kinh doanh keo dai 15 nam, M88 su dung cong nghe ma hoa AES-256 bit e am bao an toan tuyet oi cho thong tin nguoi choi.

Uu iem  Nhuoc iem

Uu iem Nhuoc iem Giao dien de thao tac. Thoi gian cho khi lien lac voi bo phan CSKH co the keo dai len en tu 5 en 15 phut vao cac thoi iem cao iem. So huu ung dung ca o bong a tren ca 2 nen tang Android va iOS.

188BET  Mot nen tang hang au ca o bong a online

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JBO  Web ca o bong a uy tin hien nay

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VN88  Trang web ang tin cho ca o bong a tai Viet Nam

Khi noi en mon the thao uoc coi la bieu tuong quoc dan, khong the bo qua nha cai VN88. Voi viec lien tuc cap nhat cac khuyen mai chi tiet cho tung tran au, trang web nay tao ra mot khong gian phan khich xung quanh cac su kien the thao suot nam.

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Dafabet  San choi ca o bong a toan dien nhat

Dafabet ung au trong linh vuc ca cuoc the thao truc tuyen tai khu vuc Chau A voi hai sanh chinh la The thao Dafa cung The thao OW uoc anh gia cao ve chat luong cung trai nghiem nguoi choi.

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ac iem can co tai mot trang web ca o bong a ang tin

Khong phai tat ca cac nha cai eu la lua chon phu hop cho viec tham gia ca o. e tranh roi vao cac thu oan lua ao, viec tuan thu nhung tieu chi duoi ay sau khi chon trang web ca o bong a la rat quan trong:

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Ket luan

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Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On March 27, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Automobile Sales Co., Ltd. officially signed an open platform cooperation agreement with Wuhan NIO Energy Co., Ltd., according to a post on Geely Auto's Weibo account.

Under the agreement, vehicle owners of Geely's Galaxy range, GEOME range, Lynk & Co, ZEEKR, and smart brands will gain access to real-time information about NIO charging piles via their respective brand apps. This information includes location, pricing, availability, and navigation guidance, facilitating seamless charging experiences.

Photo credit: NIO

NIO Energy will furnish Geely with open platform services encompassing dynamic and static data on charging piles, along with applications for platform charging facilities. Up until now, NIO boasts a network of 3,737 charging stations with 21,720 charging piles spanning 306 cities nationwide, intending to offer Geely's electric vehicle users rapid and convenient recharging solutions.

In the realm of power replenishment field, ZEEKR Power has deployed a total of 445 ultra-fast charging stations (800V charging stations) with 2,439 charging piles across China. Geely's Galaxy, GEMOE ranges, and Lynk & Co brand have fully integrated into ZEEKR Power's network, capitalizing on the group's expansive recharging infrastructure.

Moreover, Geely has earmarked exclusive "Recharge Parks" for Galaxy users, slated to encompass 300 stations by 2024. Furthermore, Geely has consolidated charging resources from major operators nationwide, and has been given access to 750,000 charging piles in 330 cities in China.

In addition to the cooperation in the charging field, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group previously signed a strategic cooperation agreement on battery swapping business with NIO Holdings Ltd. The two parties will engage in comprehensive cooperation in multiple areas, including swappable battery standards, battery swapping technology, service network construction and operation, R&D and customization of battery swappable models, as well as battery asset management and operation.
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Relief Therapeutics Calls Extraordinary General MeetingAnticipated Board of Directors OverhaulGENEVA, SWITZERLAND / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / RELIEF THERAPEUTICS Holding SA (SIX:RLF)(OTCQB:RLFTF)(OTCQB:RLFTY) (Relief Therapeutics, or the Company), a biopharmaceutical company committed to delivering innovative treatment options for select specialty, unmet and rare diseases, today announced it has called an extraordinary general meeting (the EGM) of shareholders to be held at 03:00 p.m. CEST on April 26, 2024.The purpose of the meeting is to vote on several specific items: the election of three nominees to the Board of Directors (the Board); adjustments to the Company's share capital; matters related to the Board and Executive Committee compensation and discharge; and textual amendments to conform the Articles of Association to the new corporate law. We believe such measures enjoy support of the Company's largest shareholder and will enhance the Company's flexibility for future financial operations and business opportunities.AGENDA 1. Election of new members of the Board of DirectorsShareholders will vote on the election of Mr. Peter de Svastich, Mr. Gregory Van Beek, and Mr. Thomas Elzinga as new members of the Board, for a term of office extending until completion of the next Annual General Meeting expected in June 2024. The three nominees are being proposed by Global Emerging Markets (GEM), the Company's largest shareholder with approximately 23% of the Company's outstanding share capital. Detailed presentations about the Board nominees can be found in the comprehensive agenda, available here .Ms. Patrice Jean and Mr. Thomas Plitz, current Board members, announced their intent to conclude their service upon the election of the Board nominees. Mr. Selvaraju, Chairman of the Board, and Ms. Lock, member of the Board and interim CEO of the Company, will continue their service.2. Capital Reduction by Reduction of Nominal ValueThe Board proposes to reduce the nominal value of the Company's share capital from CHF 56'163'348.00 to CHF 1'404'083.70 by reducing the nominal value of each share from CHF 4.00 to CHF 0.10. This technical adjustment comes as the share currently quotes at a price below its par value. This situation presents practical implications, including limiting the Company's ability to raise capital. The number of outstanding shares, as well as shareholders' financial and patrimonial rights, will not be affected by the reduction in par value. The modification of the share capital shall render the capital band provisions under the Articles of Association void.3. Reinstatement and Extension of the Capital BandSubject to and contingent upon the approval of the reduction of nominal value (second agenda item above), the Board proposes to reinstate and increase the Company's capital band to 7'000'000 shares and extend its duration until April 25, 2029, maintaining a capital band authorizing capital increases of not more than 50% of the ordinary share capital. The proposed capital band will allow the Board to maintain full flexibility in connection with possible future financing and business opportunities.4. Increase of the Conditional Share CapitalSubject to and contingent upon the approval of the reduction of nominal value (second agenda item above), the Board proposes to increase the existing conditional share capital to 7'000'000 shares, maintaining a total conditional share capital of around but not more than 50% of the ordinary share capital. The allocation of the conditional capital is proposed as follows: 1'000'000 shares are designated for the potential granting of stock options to attract and retain key personnel, aligning their interests with those of the shareholders, and 6'000'000 shares are reserved for issuing of financial instruments convertible into shares in support of future financing and business opportunities.5. Votes on the compensation of the members of the Board of Directors and of the Executive CommitteeThe Board proposes that the General Meeting approves a maximum amount of CHF 500'000 for compensation of the members of the Board for the period from the Annual General Meeting 2023 until the Annual General Meeting 2024, and a maximum amount of CHF 4'000'000 for the members of the Executive Committee for the financial year 2024. These compensation envelopes are inclusive of fixed and variable compensation, stock options, and other benefits.6. Discharge of the Board of Directors and the Executive CommitteeThe Board proposes that the General Meeting grants discharge to each and all members of the Board and of the Executive Committee, including former members, for the financial years 2022 and 2023. Pursuant to Swiss corporate law, discharge for the financial year 2023 will be limited to facts disclosed by the Company or known by the Company's shareholders as of the time of the meeting.7. Amendments to the Articles of Association related to the New Corporate LawThe Board proposes textual amendments to article 23 para. 1 and article 25 para. 3 of the Articles of Association for alignment with the new corporate law.The formal notice of convocation to the EGM, including voting guidelines, will be sent on or around April 4, 2024, to registered shareholders. The comprehensive agenda, which includes further details on these motions, is available here.ABOUT RELIEF THERAPEUTICSRelief Therapeutics is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to advancing treatment paradigms and delivering improvements in efficacy, safety, and convenience to benefit the lives of patients living with select specialty and rare diseases. Relief Therapeutics' portfolio offers a balanced mix of marketed, revenue-generating products, our proprietary, globally patented Physiomimic and TEHCLO platform technologies and a targeted clinical development pipeline consisting of risk-mitigated assets focused in three core therapeutic areas: rare metabolic disorders, rare skin diseases and rare respiratory diseases. In addition, Relief Therapeutics is commercializing several legacy products via licensing and distribution partners. Relief Therapeutics' mission is to provide therapeutic relief to those suffering from rare diseases and is being advanced by an international team of well-established, experienced biopharma industry leaders with extensive research, development and rare disease expertise. Relief Therapeutics is headquartered in Geneva, with additional offices in Balerna, Switzerland, Offenbach am Main, Germany and Monza, Italy. Relief Therapeutics is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the symbol RLF and quoted in the U.S. on OTCQB under the symbols RLFTF and RLFTY. For more information, please vi
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Temas Resources Corp. ("Temas" or the "Company") (CSE:TMAS)(OTCQB:TMASF) is pleased to report that it has entered into an option agreement (the "Option Agreement") to acquire a 100% interest in the La Blache Lake Extension Property (the "Property"). The Property is the ground immediately west and along trend from Temas's Farrell-Taylor mineralization on the La Blache property and includes the Hervieux-Est and Hervieux-Ouest mineralization.The combination of the La Blache and the La Blache Lake Extension projects consolidates into one package the known mineralization in the trend. The Property adds 44 claims / 2,432.25 Ha to the main claim block of the La Blache project. These claims are all within the La Blache anorthosite complex, within anorthosite, leucotroctolite or leuconorite, along the fold hinge of a regional anticline. Mineralization appears to occur sub-parallel to this axis, with mineralization at Hervieux-Ouest, Hervieux-Est and Schmoo Lake being added to Farrell-Taylor and Farrell-Mason lenses already in the Temas claims.Tim Fernback, President of Temas comments, "With the positive results of the PEA, we are excited to further refine our understanding of the best path forward for the development of the combined La Blache project. By adding the additional mineralization, optionality opens up on the best approach and overall path to development. There is still a lot of work to do on the Farrell-Taylor, but we are keen to apply what we have already learned to this part of the trend." Pursuant to the Option Agreement, to acquire a 100% interest in the Property; Temas must issue an aggregate of $275,000 (CAD) in common shares and pay an aggregate of $350,000 (CAD) in cash over a 48th month period based on the following payment schedule.$50,000 cash and, $75,000 in common shares upon non-objection by the Canadian Securities Exchange of the Option Agreement (the "Approval Date"). $75,000 cash and, $50,000 in common shares on the 12 month anniversary of the Approval Date $75,000 cash and, $50,000 in common shares on the 24 month anniversary of the Approval Date $75,000 cash and, $50,000 in common shares on the 36 month anniversary of the Approval Date $75,000 cash and, $50,000 in common shares on the 48 month anniversary of the Approval DateThe claims will carry with them a 2% net smelter return royalty (the "NSR"), of which NSR. 50% NSR can be purchased for $1,500,000 CAD at the election of Temas.The Property contains historic estimates on the Hervieux-Est and Hervieux-Ouest mineralization. This historic estimate would be best approximated as comparable to an inferred resource by modern standards, but modifications to resource estimation in 2014 were not applied to the resource estimation process and may change what constitutes resource material in a current estimate. This historical estimate was not verified by a qualified person. It should only be considered as an indication of the mineral potential and not necessarily indicative of the contained mineralization on these newly optioned claims. It was previously held by Argex Titanium Inc., which in 2011 published the report "Preliminary Economic Assessment on the La Blache Fe-Ti-V Project", with an effective date of October 12 , 2011 and filed December 13, 2011. In this report, they published resource estimates on both Hervieux-Est and Hervieux-Ouest:VolumeTonnesTi %V %FeHervieux-EstMeasured538,0002,458,00011.100.2444.18Indicated2,265,00010,343,00011.070.2443.99M & I2,803,00012,801,00011.080.2444.02Inferred2,189,0009,883,00010.930.2343.41Hervieux-OuestMeasured1,275,0005,822,00011280.2543.97Indicated3,003,00013,646,00011.260.2643.98M & I4,278,00019,470,00011.270.2643.98Inferred1,034,0004,700,00011.170.2743.36Where: Price V2O5 = $14500/t, Price TiO2 = $2500/t, Recovery V = 90%, Recovery TiO2 = 85%As this estimate was calculated in 2011, it did follow CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, but it was based on the 2005 version of the definition and standards.QUALIFIED PERSONSBertrand Brassard, P.Geo is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, is a member of the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained within this press release.Rory Kutluoglu, P. Geo is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained within this press release.On behalf of the Board of Directors,Tim Fernback, President & CEOAbout Temas ResourcesTemas Resources Corp. (CSE:TMAS)(OTCQB:TMASF) is focused on the advanced La Blache and Lac Brule Iron-Titanium-Vanadium projects in Quebec. The critical metals the Company is exploring for are key to our national mineral independence. Additionally, the Company invests in and works to apply its green mineral recovery technologies across its mining portfolio to reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprint of metal extraction through advanced processing and patented leaching technologies.All public filings for the Company can be found on the SEDAR+ website www.sedarplus.ca . For more information about the Company, please visit www.temasresources.com For further information or investor relations inquiries:Tim FernbackPresident and CEOtfernback@ shaw.ca orKIN Communications Inc.Tel: 604-684-6730 tmas@ kincommunications.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsNeither 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.This news release includes certain "ForwardLooking Statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "would", "could", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forwardlooking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information relate to, among other things: the exploration, development, and production at the Company's mineral projects; non-objection of the Option Agreement; and exercise of the option pursuant to the terms of the Option AgreementForwardlooking statements and forwardlooking information relating to any future mineral
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Top Five Conveyor Car Wash Company Celebrates Grand Openings in Florida, Mississippi, Illinois, and Indiana with Free WashesTHOMASTON, GA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Tidal Wave Auto Spa, one of the nation's fastest-growing express car wash companies, opened five brand-new locations this week in Ocala, FL, Lincoln, IL, Lawrenceburg, IN, Flowood, MS, and Tupelo, MS. These openings officially add Illinois and Indiana into the company's 27 state footprint stretching across the South, Midwest, and Northern United States.To celebrate the Grand Openings, each new Tidal Wave location is offering eight days of free car washes from March 27-April 3. This limited-time promotion provides an opportunity for car owners to experience Tidal Wave's premium wash option, Graph-X4, at no cost. Additionally, any new customer that joins a Clean Club unlimited wash membership plan during Grand Opening week will enjoy their first month of unlimited washes for only $9.97 - saving up to $40."We've been consciously expanding our footprint throughout the Midwest over the past few years," said Tidal Wave CEO and Founder Scott Blackstock. "We're thrilled to add Illinois and Indiana to our footprint with the brand-new Lincoln and Lawrenceburg locations - plus, continue our growth in the Southeast with three new locations across Florida and Mississippi. Our team is looking forward to bringing our convenient and enjoyable car wash experience to folks in Ocala, Lincoln, Lawrenceburg, Flowood, and Tupelo for years to come." Tidal Wave Auto Spa is committed to providing every customer with an exceptional car wash experience through industry-leading car care technology, clean and attractive locations, and friendly customer service at every location. Stop by for a single wash or join Tidal Wave's Clean Club for the ultimate experience. Members can wash every day of the month for one convenient monthly payment and save time with exclusive club member wash lanes - plus, memberships can be used at any Tidal Wave location. For those needing to wash multiple cars, Tidal Wave offers discounted monthly family plans and fleet plans for businesses with five or more vehicles.Ocala, FL Location:7510 SW 95th Street Rd, Ocala, FL 34476Lincoln, IL Location: 1651 Woodlawn Road, Lincoln, IL 62656Lawrenceburg, IN Location: 1150 W Eads Parkway, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025Flowood, MS Location: 797 Lakeland Place, Flowood, MS 39232Tupelo, MS Location: 922 Milton Drive, Tupelo, MS 38804The brand-new Flowood and Tupelo locations bring Tidal Wave's Mississippi footprint to five locations. The company currently operates seventeen Florida locations and will open additional locations in Lecanto, Lantana, and Clermont opening soon. Tidal Wave will also open an Indianapolis location, plus several new Illinois locations in Woodstock, Lombard, and Bourbonnais in the coming months.For additional information, including upcoming locations, fundraising, fleet plans, and more, please visit: https://www.tidalwaveautospa.com/ About Tidal Wave Auto SpaTidal Wave Auto Spa is an industry-leading conveyor car wash company founded in 1999 by Scott and Hope Blackstock in Thomaston, GA. Tidal Wave is committed to providing cutting-edge car care technology and exceptional customer service at each of their 249 locations sprawling 27 states across the South, Midwest, and Northern United States. In 2020, Tidal Wave partnered with Golden Gate Capital to facilitate their accelerated growth across the country. Tidal Wave is one of the top five conveyor car wash companies in the country and has been included in the Inc. 5000 list for America's Fastest Growing Companies since 2020. The company was recognized as a 2023 Champion of Charity Honoree by Professional Carwashing & Detailing and has raised over $3 million dollars for organizations in their communities.Contact InformationHeather ColemanMarketing Managermedia@ tidalwaveautospa.com Andrea TraylorSenior Director of Digital Marketingandrea.traylor@tidalwaveautospa.com 2058212220SOURCE: Tidal Wave Auto SpaView the original press release on newswire.com
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PLANO, TX / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Acting as a catalyst to inspire and prepare the next wave of female leaders, innovators and pioneers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), Toyota Connected North America (TCNA) today announced that it has joined forces with the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas (GSNETX) to sponsor the "E for Engineering" patch."Together with Toyota Connected, we are on a mission to make Northeast Texas the best place to be a girl and address the shortage of female voices in STEM fields," said Jennifer Bartkowski, CEO of GSNETX. "Early exposure to STEM is crucial for developing the skills and confidence our Girl Scouts need to be at the forefront of a more diverse, empowered workforce." "As a tech company that values diversity within our own culture, Toyota Connected recognizes the importance of encouraging young women to explore technology, and that starts with engaging girls of all backgrounds in STEM programming at an early age," said TCNA Chief People Officer Jennifer Brown. "Toyota Connected is proud to support the 'E for Engineering' patch with the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas to help cultivate tomorrow's female leaders in engineering, technology and software." Coinciding with Women's History Month, the announcement underscores a shared dedication to empowering young women in STEM so they can excel in these critical, fast-growing sectors. TCNA is supporting this vision by sponsoring the "E for Engineering" patch, whose mission it is to immerse girls in software engineering through practical hands-on learning, design thinking and skill-building.Photo Credit: Toyota Connected North AmericaWith this sponsorship, TCNA is providing valuable volunteer touchpoints and unparalleled access to seasoned engineering professionals. TCNA plans to lead workshops using cutting-edge technology and participate in GSNETX networking and engineering-related events throughout the year, demonstrating the vast potential within the engineering field.Despite making up more than half of all college graduates, women comprise just 16.7% of engineering and architecture professionals, according to the Society of Women Engineers1. Along with GSNETX and other collaborators in Northeast Texas, TCNA is proud to play its part in helping increase that number.Toyota Connected is a hub of engineering innovation, with more than 200 dedicated software engineers, data scientists and software designers ready to serve as mentors, role models and advisors. TCNA also proudly hosts its own Women in Technology group whose mission it is to provide leadership opportunities, mentorship, professional development and networking activities for its members.The E for Engineering patch plays a key role in the GSNETX STEM Seal of Approval, encouraging Girl Scouts to engage in STEM-focused activities, attend fairs, or participate in workshops by GSNETX and its partners. For further details on the program, please visit gsnetx.org/STEMseal 1 Employment - Society of Women Engineers ( swe.org) ###We Are Girl ScoutsWhether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths, make best friends, and rise to meet new challenges. Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas serves girls and adult volunteers across 32 counties. To change the workforce pipeline in STEM and meet the urgent need for female voices and leadership in the fastest-growing sector of the U.S. economy, GSNETX opened the 92-acre state-of-the-art STEM Center of Excellence in 2018. Learn more at gsnetx.org or call 972-349-2400.About Toyota Connected North America, Inc.Based in Plano, Texas, Toyota Connected North America (TCNA) was established in 2016 to contribute toward Toyota's global vision for an intelligent mobile society. TCNA is an independent Toyota company that serves as a software and innovation hub, leveraging big data from vehicles to humanize the driving experience and provide customers secure, seamless and contextual services. Comprised primarily of software engineers and data scientists, TCNA serves as a center of excellence for connected services that elevate the customer experience as well as benefitting dealers, distributors and partners. At the heart of TCNA is Toyota's belief in human-centered mobility and a fundamental commitment to personal privacy. Learn more at toyotaconnected.com Media Contacts:Stephanie HornePublic Relations Manager,Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas469-994-1629 Shorne@ gsnetx.org Jacob BrownPublic Relations Manager,Toyota Connected North America469-486-4042 Jacob.brown@toyotaconnected.com SOURCE: Girl Scout of Northeast Texas
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against The Boeing Company ("Boeing" or "the Company") (NYSE:BA) 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 Boeing securities between October 19, 2019 and January 24, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/BA Case Details:The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period Boeing and certain of its executives failed to disclose material information in violation of federal securities laws including:(1) On January 5, 2024, a Boeing 737 aircraft operated by Alaska Airlines experienced an in-flight departure of an in-cabin door plug, causing the cabin to become depressurized and forcing an emergency landing.(2) On January 7, 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration issued a grounding order, stating that "Boeing 737-9 aircraft will remain grounded until operators complete enhanced inspections which include both left and right cabin door exit plugs, door components, and fasteners" and that "[o]perators must also complete corrective action requirements based on findings from the inspections prior to bringing any aircraft back into service." On this news, Boeing's stock price fell $20.00 per share, or 8%, to close at $229.00 per share on January 8, 2024.(3) Then, on January 9, 2024, news outlets reported that United Airlines had found loose bolts on exit door plugs during their FAA-mandated inspections of Boeing 737 Max planes. The reports also noted that Alaska Airlines said its initial inspections of the jets had turned up "loose hardware." On this news, Boeing's stock price fell $3.24 per share, or 1.4%, to close at $225.76 per share on January 9, 2024.(4) On January 11, 2024, news outlets reported that the FAA had informed Boeing it had launched a formal investigation into whether Boeing had failed to properly ensure its aircraft were safe for operation.(5) On this news, Boeing's stock price fell $5.18 per share, or 2.3%, to close at $222.66 per share on January 11, 2024. on January 12, 2024, news outlets reported that the FAA would increase oversight of Boeing production and manufacturing processes. The FAA stated that a comprehensive audit set to be conducted on the Boeing 737 MAX 9 production line and its associated suppliers, specifically to assess Boeing's adherence to approved quality procedures, which could result in further audits.On this news, Boeing's stock price fell $4.96 per share, or 2.2%, to close at $217.70 per share on January 12, 2024.(6) On January 16, 2024, Wells Fargo downgraded Boeing, citing risks associated with the FAA's inspection of Boeing's production.On this news, Boeing's stock price fell $17.18 per share, or 7.9%, to close at $200.52 per share on January 16, 2024.(7) Finally, on January 24, 2024, news outlets reported that the FAA had announced it would not allow Boeing to expand production of the 737 MAX due to safety concerns related to the January 5, 2024 incident.On this news, Boeing's stock price fell $12.25 per share, or 5.7%, to close at $201.88 per share on January 25, 2024.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/BA 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 Boeing you have until April 1, 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
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Autonomous Chairs Now Taking American Airlines Customers to Gates at LAX and MIAORLANDO, FL / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / WHILL, Inc., a pioneering developer of electric mobility devices, announced the first commercial installations of its autonomous mobility service in the United States within American Airlines terminals at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Miami International Airport (MIA).WHILL and Envoy Air First Commercial Deployments of Autonomous Mobility Services at Major U.S. AirportsOne of the most common challenges affecting airports and airlines today is providing quality service to passengers with reduced mobility. These travelers are the fastest-growing demographic in the airline industry and airports must adapt to meet their needs. Recent trends include more wheelchair pushes, longer wait times, and an increased number of staff injuries. With the global population aging and projected to reach 2.1 billion people over 60 by 2050 (Source: WHO), WHILL's autonomous mobility service will improve accessibility for customers around the world."We are thrilled to bring cutting-edge technology and innovation to two of American's busiest hubs," said Shane Bogni, Vice President of Business Development at WHILL Mobility Services, North America. "Our autonomous mobility services offer customers increased independence, reduced wait times, and an enhanced customer experience." WHILL and Envoy Air, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group, have been collaborating since late 2022 at Miami International Airport (MIA) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The thorough testing of the service has resulted in excellent performance and positive customer feedback. Once a user selects their destination on a touch screen, the WHILL autonomous power chair takes over, safely and reliably transporting the customer to their desired gate."The Envoy team at MIA supports thousands of customer service requests every day, and we're thrilled to partner with WHILL to pioneer the introduction of this autonomous mobility service in the U.S.," said Migdoel Rosa, Envoy Vice President of MIA Hub."Ensuring accessibility and safety for our customers are top priorities for our team," added Deesha Desai, Envoy Vice President of LAX Hub and Western Region. "Our team and WHILL are committed to listening to customers and addressing their needs, which will result in an improved experience for individuals with accessibility challenges." For more information about WHILL's autonomous mobility service, visit https://whill.inc/us/mobility-service/how-it-works/autonomous-drive . Hi-res images of the autonomous power chairs can also be found here.###About WHILL, Inc.WHILL has given consumers worldwide a way to experience new ways to move and do the activities they love. Our innovative design combines state-of-the-art technology with an approachable and pleasing aesthetic, providing users with increased confidence and independence. In addition to our fleet of mobility devices, WHILL connects the world through its autonomous and on-site fleet mobility services by making public spaces like airports, hospitals, and convention centers more accessible. https://whill.inc About Envoy AirEnvoy Air Inc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group, operates more than 130 Embraer aircraft on 700 daily flights to over 160 destinations throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean. Over 20,000 Envoy employees operate regional flights for American Airlines under the American Eagle brand and provide ground handling services for many American Airlines and American Eagle branded flights at more than 115 airport locations across North America and the Caribbean. The company was founded in 1998 as American Eagle Airlines, Inc., following the merger of several smaller regional carriers to create one of the largest regional airlines in the world. Envoy is headquartered in Irving, Texas, with hubs in Dallas-Fort Worth, Chicago, and Miami, with a large ground handling operation in Los Angeles. Connect with Envoy @EnvoyAirCareers on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.Media Contact: Lauren Clark, lclark@ percepture.com Contact Information:Lauren ClarkPercepture for WHILL, Inc.lclark@percepture.com 248-231-5178Related FilesWHILL + Envoy Announcement FinalSOURCE: WHILL, Inc.View the original press release on newswire.com
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AUSTIN, TX / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Xtra Energy Corp. (OTC PINK:XTPT) is pleased to disclose the report on the interpretation of high-resolution satellite images carried out by Dirt Exploration at approximately 33 feet (10 meters) resolution for its American Antimony Project located in the Bernice Mining District of Churchill County, Nevada. Xtra Energy Corporation is an antimony exploration company focused on developing its flagship project, "American Antimony," approximately 31 miles northeast of Eastgate, Nevada. Xtra Energy Corporation holds 100% ownership in a 207-lode, 4276-acre antimony project surrounding the historically documented Antimony King Mine and covering all other documented antimony producers in the Bernice Mining District. The company is seeking to develop this expanding portfolio of antimony-rich assets to become a major supplier of antimony-based products.Figure 1 : shows The American Antimony Project Layout - 207 Lode Claims/4276 Acres.Figure 2 shows the spectral correlation produced by Dirt Exploration of potential antimony on the surface. Warmer colors indicate a stronger correlation between the spectral reflectance captured on the satellite imagery and potential antimony rich minerals.DIRT Exploration, a remote sensing geoscience company headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa, completed an analysis using publicly available satellite imagery. The research combined Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR), Visible Near Infrared (VNIR), Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR), and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery into its analysis. LWIR analysis has the ability to map or identify mineral distribution over extensive areas through reflectance spectroscopy. Reflectance signatures captured on the satellite imagery are compared to databases of known mineral reflectance. The LWIR analysis can view mineral spectra at shallow depths thanks to its ground-penetrating nature and utilization of the long-wave bands of infrared radiation.According to Mac J. Shahsavar, P. Eng., Chairman and CEO of XTPT, "As CEO, I'm happy to report our most recent test findings, which are nothing short of extraordinary. They not only highlight our team's dedication and hard work in locating this extraordinary deposit, but also represent a critical step forward in our mission to become America's sole producer of antimony." Contact & Learn More:Xtra Energy CorporationPhone: 512-412-3636Corporate Website: https://americanantimony.com/ Corporate Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtra-energy-corp/ Corporate Twitter: https://twitter.com/xtra_corp Corporate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtraenergycorp/ Corporate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093057374695 About Xtra Energy CorporationXtra Energy Corporation is an antimony exploration company focused on developing its flagship project "American Antimony", approximately 31 miles northeast of Eastgate, Nevada. Xtra Energy Corporation holds a 100% ownership in a 207 lode claim, 4276 acre antimony project surrounding the historically documented Antimony King Mine and covering all other documented antimony producers of the Bernice Mining District. The Company is seeking to develop this expanding portfolio of antimony-rich assets to become a major supplier of antimony based products.FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events, including our ability to raise capital, or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause materially different results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.For a discussion of these risks and uncertainties, please see our filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc. Our public filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc are available from commercial document retrieval services and at the website maintained by the OTC Markets at https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/XTPT/disclosure SOURCE: Xtra Energy Corp.
On Wednesday, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, emphasised the Nigerian governments commitment to industry revitalisation with a keen focus on steel, the cornerstone of infrastructural development and economic renewal.

This emphasis comes in tandem with an appraisal of the $600m Iron-Ore Mining & Processing Facility by the African Natural Resources and Mines Limited (ANRML) in Kaduna state, a significant stride in Nigerias mining sector.

Our Industry Revitalisation Plan prioritises steel due to its foundational role in building our nations infrastructure, the minister stated.

One pressing issue within our industry is the spiralling cost of goods, especially burdensome for manufacturers. By scrutinizing production costs, we aim to facilitate more affordable manufacturing processes.

The Federal Executive Council has approved an Infrastructure Development Fund, which Mrs Uzoka-Anite describes as a project de-risking fund, concentrating on crucial infrastructure sectors vital to Nigerias economy.

This fund, alongside the Industry Revitalisation Plan, aspires to stimulate the economy, build additional roads, railways, and essential infrastructure. Increased production is anticipated to please investors and stakeholders alike.

We owe President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gratitude for championing this initiative, the Minister added, signalling the administrations progressive vision.

In line with the remarks of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, the minister praised the ANRML facility for its substantial foreign investment and commitment to value addition and beneficiation in its iron-ore processing. She asserted that these efforts are in line with the federal governments policy to require value addition plans for mining operations license approvals.

The minister underscored the ANRMLs alignment with the Nigeria Automotive Industry Plan, enhancing local steel production for the automotive manufacturing sector. She highlighted the significance of the Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) produced through the facilitys advanced beneficiation and pelletisation processes, setting Nigeria on the path to becoming a leading crude steel producer.

The Minister concluded by drawing a parallel between the countrys economic restructuring efforts and ANRMLs success.

The same tenacity and strategic groundwork that propelled ANRML to success are what our administration is channelling towards Nigerias transformation. Like the concrete foundations necessary for ANRMLs plant, our nation is laying the groundwork for sustainable prosperity, she said.

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In an urgent call to action, Francis Behanzin, the former Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), delivered a stark warning about the escalating threat of terrorism in the Sahel region during an interview in Washington, D.C.

Speaking at the United States Institute of Peace, the defence expert provided a sobering account of the complex security challenges plaguing the volatile Sahel region, stretching from Senegal to Sudan. Despite numerous strategies employed by international forces over the past decade, including the deployment of 13,000 soldiers under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), the situation continues to deteriorate.

There is no coordination; no national strategy coordination, political coordination, military operation cooperation, lamented Mr Behanzin, a retired general. Things are worsening every day.

The former ECOWAS commissioner attributed the rise of extremism, in part, to the aftermath of the Libyan war, which unleashed a torrent of instability across the region. Efforts by ECOWAS, the United States, France, and other international players have thus far failed to stem the tide of terrorism, breeding disappointment among local populations and military forces.

This disillusionment, according to Mr Behanzin, contributed to a series of military coups that have further destabilized the region, with Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger all experiencing such upheavals. Alarmingly, three of these nations  Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger  have threatened to withdraw from ECOWAS, the regional economic and political bloc tasked with maintaining peace and security.

Its too much for ECOWAS  for 15 member states, Mr Behanzin stated, emphasizing the enormous strain on the organizations resources and capabilities.

In a candid assessment, the retired general acknowledged the resilience of armed groups in the face of previous approaches, questioning the efficacy of past recommendations and policies. However, he expressed cautious optimism that the recent report by the Bipartisan Senior Study Group for the Sahel, combined with ECOWASs action plan, could provide a path forward  if bolstered by the unwavering support of the United States and its citizens.

I believe that the US citizen through the US government will take into account the recommendations of the USIPs study and also the action plan by ECOWAS, Mr Behanzin urged. Because we can say that the political crisis  the coups detat  happening, except for Guinea because in Guinea there is no terrorism there.

As the chairman of the World Network of Security and Defence Professionals for prevention and combating terrorism, Mr Behanzin emphasized the global nature of the terrorism threat, drawing parallels to the 9/11 attacks on American soil. The problem of terrorism is not only the problem of one country, he warned. Anywhere. That is why I believe that to combat terrorism, anywhere they come from.

With the Sahel region teetering on the brink of further chaos, Mr Behanzins impassioned plea underscores the urgency of a coordinated, multinational effort to address the root causes of extremism and restore stability to this beleaguered corner of the world. The international community, led by the United States, now faces a critical juncture  heed the calls for action or risk witnessing the scourge of terrorism metastasize beyond the Sahels borders.

Mr Behanzin, in an interview, spoke to PREMIUM TIMES White House correspondent, Pearl Matibe, and warned that terrorism in the Sahel will continue if action is not taken, which threatens security everywhere.

Heres an excerpt of the interview, edited from an intermittent French translator, and for length and clarity:

Matibe: Francis Behanzin, its such a pleasure. Thank you so much for fitting time into your remarkably busy Washington itinerary, to speak with me. Welcome to Washington.

Behanzin: Thank you so much.

Matibe: Im going to dive right in. You have a vast experience, and you are attending the event [at] the United States Institute of Peace on the Sahel. Let me begin by asking this as the former Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security at ECOWAS, could you tell us a little bit about what is the Political Affairs, Peace, and Security department at ECOWAS? It oversees two directorates. Tell us a little bit about the background and context of your previous role there.

Behanzin: Thank you so much. For asking me that question. Also, I am the Chairman of the World Network of Security and Defence Professionals for prevention and combating terrorism. Thank you for your question. I was invited by the USIP in Washington to come and talk about whats been happening in the Sahel. (I was the) former Minister of Interior and Public Safety [Benin], and I was the Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security at ECOWAS, between 2018 and 2022. During my mandate at ECOWAS, I managed 14 presidential elections, two senatorial elections, and four sensitive parliamentary elections in the region. Working on democracy, peace, and security was my main goal, but it was not an easy task. We can all say, and agree, that things are really tense right now, especially with three states, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Those three countries wanting to leave ECOWASits very complicated and worrying given that they were all united for peace and democracy in the Sahel. So, its not an easy task to deal with, but we are working on it, and thats why I was brought here to Washington to give my perspectives, given my expertise in the subject matter.

Matibe: In your view, what are the key priorities for enhancing regional cooperation and coordination among ECOWAS member states to address the shared security challenges that can be overcome in a more sustainable, more long-term way for West Africa and the Sahel?

Behanzin: It comes to the support in the crisis after the war in LibyaOkay, I cannot tell you how many strategies were developed, especially in Mali. There are more than 20 strategies. And as you said, there is no coordination; no national strategy coordination, political coordination, military operation cooperation, that coordinates, and things [were] worsening every day. You know that MINUSMA was there for about 10 years without good results. They did many things. There were about 13,000 soldiers from international countries who came to Mali. They developed many action [plans], for people, on health, but not combatting terrorism. And the international community who sent [representation] there  as I can say  USA, France, Japan, China, Russia, and many countries from West Africa, in general. They werent able to stop the terrorism. And from that the population and local military forces [were] completely disappointed. That disappointment resulted in them focusing on political governance and social governance. Then they carried out the coup detat. I was there, as a Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security. I can tell you that the man who carried out the coup detat was in the Special Forces and one day, he was kidnapped by terrorists. Maybe by Gods will, he was released. Now, the situation is worsening every day.

You know ECOWAS did many good things to gather the effort, to coordinate the effort, and to do many good things in the Sahel. But you know, when the military coup detat happened, ECOWAS with its resolution tried to convince them [] But, you know the militaryYou know how powerI dont knowI dont want to say that the power is sweet. But they were not departing. After them [Mali], came Burkina Faso. After Mali and Burkina Faso came Guinea (Conakry). After Guinea Conakry came Niger. Its too much for ECOWASfor 15 member states. And, about the regulation by ECOWAS countries, there was some sanction, to stop coup detat and arrest the coup detat in our region. Actually, three of them said that we will withdraw from ECOWAS, as a regional community. That is what we are facing. The US government and the US Institute of Peace invited us as resource persons to talk about the situation and [our perspectives] on the strategy to coordinate in a better [way] to prevent terrorism, to eradicate terrorism, and to give good health and human security for all these people.

Matibe: Can I press you on that issue that you just mentioned? I am hearing a lot of optimism from you. Im hearing engagement, during your time in Washington. And I did read over the report that was put out by the Bipartisan Senior Study Group for the Sahel. But here are my questions to you: In this same week, now lets be realistic, because I did a close reading of the report, also given that [] the government in Guinea dissolved its government, recently. I have asked my colleagues in past US administrations and their engagement with the region. Many recommendations have been made in the past. Many experts and other knowledgeable people made recommendations about policy and advised on a particular approach that they should have. But it has not worked. Does it not prove that the armed groups are resilient against approaches that were adopted previously? What confidence do you have in the recommendations now in the report that has come out this week?

Behanzin: I believe that the US government took a very good initiative, through the US Institute of Peace to invite us to talk about the recommendations issued from that crisis group. You know in a family  we are [indeed] family in the world  and in a family, you must have a leader. And I believe, many countries and people believe that the U.S. is the leader of our family; economically, militarily, democratically. But democracies also sometimes have problems. Democracy is permanently under construction. About the conclusion  the recommendations by the Group of the U.S. Institute of Peace, we come here to develop what we know will work on the ground. On the ground, ECOWAS has built an action plan. For combatting terrorism. The first source of instability, in West Africa, is the problem of terrorism, after the war against Libya. We have to tell ourselves the truth. Okay. We come up with that plan of action, to seek support from Americas citizens to help us to arrest the evolution of terrorism because its not only for Sahel. After the Sahel, they will be coming to the coast, like Benin. Me, Im from Benin. Like Togo. Like Ghana. Like Cote dIvoire, like Sierra Leone, Liberia, and so on. And, if we dont arrest the progression, of terrorism, its the worlds security which is [] and we have to be together. I believe that the US citizen through the US government will take into account the recommendations of the USIPs study and also the action plan by ECOWAS because we can say that the political crisisthe coups detat happening.

Matibe: And so, General to close, do you have any closing remarks?

Behanzin: Im leading a network of security and defence professionals for preventing and combating terrorism, whose headquarters is in Abuja. Im living in Abuja and from Abuja, I can go [travel] to the 15 member states to give advice to the members of the government, to the heads of state, and so on. From here, I will go back to Abuja. I have to also go to Benin, to see the social situation, the political situation. But I want to tell you and I want to tell the American citizen, that the problem of terrorism is not only the problem of one country. I remember the 9/11/2001 [terrorist attacks] here in America. The whole world was on the scene. And when you have the phenomena of terrorism, they dont care about anything. Anywhere. That is why I believe in combatting terrorism, anywhere they come from.

Matibe: General, I do appreciate your remarks and your time.

Pearl Matibe is a Washington, DC-based foreign correspondent and media commentator with expertise in US foreign policy and international security. You may follow her on Twitter: @PearlMatibe

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Urban growth in Africa means cities are becoming more globalised, and crime is increasing in complexity and scope. With in-migration comes the coexistence of various cultures, the problems associated with managing these differences and the conflicts they provoke.

The proliferation of arms in West African cities, especially since the conflicts in Libya (2011) and Mali (2012) began, has exacerbated the situation. Cities such as Abidjan, Accra, Bamako, Dakar and Lagos are connected to international markets. This enables organised crime syndicates to collaborate with groups in and beyond Africa. Illicit weapons are an important trafficked commodity and a means to protect and control populations and smuggling routes.

Research by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) shows that the arms trafficking economy in Malis capital Bamako and Lagos, Nigeria, involves diverse actors driven by mutually reinforcing factors. These include transnational criminal groups, violent extremists, and thriving gangs that require arms, and the pressures brought on by an influx of people into these spaces.

In Bamako, the increasing presence of transnational terrorist groups is a major driver of weapons trafficking. The dominant groups use their global reach to procure and smuggle arms into Mali and operate cells in Bamakos outskirts.

In Lagos, kidnappers, armed robbers, petroleum pipeline vandals, ethnic militias, road transport workers, commercial motorcycle riders and criminal gangs in various neighbourhoods provide a ready market for arms dealers. The No Salary Boys, Awawa Boys and One Million Boys cult gangs terrorise residents with guns bought from local blacksmiths and other sources.

Military sources in Bamako say weapons trafficked along the Niger River are mostly small calibre. Many are either obtained through armoury pillaging when insurgents attack security establishments or are manufactured in illegal workshops in the city. Bamakos rugged geography helps conceal these factories, which are behind hills and in caves and ravines, ISS research shows.

Firearm importers and traffickers use different smuggling strategies and concealment methods in Lagos. They falsify import papers and merchandise declarations to bring firearms through the citys seaports. In one case, 1 100 rifles seized at Tin Can Island Port were concealed in a 20-foot container, which the importer had declared as containing toilets and hand basins. Another gun runner hid illegal firearms in a container declared as plasma TVs.

According to the ISS study, poor urban planning and maintenance enable arms trafficking. Bamakos inner city is dotted with slums, which have been identified as critical arteries for the concentration and circulation of small arms. Numerous slum settlements in Lagos also serve as strategic outlets for arms trafficking and havens for criminals.

Incomplete or abandoned buildings in Bamako and Lagos have become places where criminals plan operations and stockpile and distribute illicit firearms. In Bamako, Kalabancoro Police Station officers recovered illicit firearms from a syndicate occupying an unfinished building in Commune V. In Lagos, guns hidden in derelict houses and plots were retrieved by the Lagos State Police Commands task force. Improvised explosive devices, bombs, AK47 rifles, cartridges and daggers were also recovered in similar settings from suspected terrorists.

Linked to the challenges posed by poor urban planning is the use of commercial motorbikes as a means of transport in Lagos. The Association of Commercial Motorcycle Operators has emerged as an urban militia using illicit weapons to foment violence. In the first half of 2021, 320 bike operators were arrested in connection with 218 crimes. Police seized 480 guns of various calibres from them.

The collusion of security personnel through armoury theft remains a major source of illicit weapons and ammunition in Lagos, partly due to poorly managed police and military stockpiles. In Bamako and its outskirts, insurgents regularly attack security force outposts, military installations, security convoys and checkpoints to loot weapons.

Easy access to small arms and light weapons in Bamako and Lagos prolong existing conflicts, such as terrorism in Bamako and ethnic violence in Lagos. It threatens the stability of polarised communities, putting civilians at risk of death or injury.

Data collected by the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED) Project and the ISS show 34 attacks in Bamako and its surrounds since 2011  attributed to armed criminals (62 per cent) and terror groups (21 per cent). ISS reported 20 attacks linked to armed groups in Lagos in 2020, 18 in 2021 and 25 from January-June 2022.

According to ACLED, attacks since 2011 were perpetrated by unknown criminals (43 per cent), the National Union of Road Transport Workers (16 per cent), cultists (7 per cent), and communal militias (9 per cent). ACLED reported that 241 people died in targeted attacks by various armed groups in Lagos since 2012.

Addressing arms trafficking and associated security challenges in cities requires state authorities, multilateral agencies, civil society and city residents to work together. They will need new ways of thinking about what effective responses look like in Bamako and Lagos.

Bamakos municipal authorities should register all gunsmiths to garner intelligence about their operations  specifically the scale, pattern and supply to designated government agencies such as police departments. City governments in Bamako and Lagos must enact planning regulations to curb the proliferation of incomplete and abandoned buildings, and ensure that unfinished structures are properly policed to avoid conversion into criminal hideouts.

Mali and Nigerias central governments must improve infrastructure and contraband-detecting technologies at ports of entry. Electronic surveillance systems will enable better immigration checks and security at unmanned borders. Lastly, civil society organisations should hold governments to account for their plans to stem illicit arms flows into the two cities.

Oluwole Ojewale, ENACT Central Africa Organised Crime Observatory Coordinator, Institute for Security Studies (ISS)

Download the full report.

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).

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Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On March 27, BYD Company Limited ("BYD" or "the Group") announced its annual financial results for the year ended Dec. 31, 2023, showcasing a remarkable year-on-year growth in both revenue and profit.

For the year of 2023, BYD recorded yearly revenues of 602.315 billion yuan, which jumped 42.04% over a year earlier. Among which, the annual revenues from the automobile, related products, and other products amounted to around 483.453 billion yuan, leaping 48.9% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the sector of the handset components, assembly service and other products saw its revenue grow 20% year on year to 118.577 billion yuan.

During the year, the Group's profit attributable to owners of the parent amounted to 30.041 billion yuan, soaring 80.72% from a year earlier.

BYD Dolphin Honor Edition; photo credit: BYD

In the same time span, BYD's gross profit zoomed up by around 68.53% year on year to roughly 121.757 billion yuan. Its gross profit margin climbed to 20.21% in 2023 from the 17.04% in 2022.

The Group mainly attributed the year-on-year increases in its annual revenue, profit, and gross profit margin to a same factor, namely, the growth in its new energy vehicle business. It sold 3.024 million vehicles through 2023, indicating a 61.9% year-on-year spike.

"As a pioneer and leader in the global new energy vehicle industry, the Group has steadily promoted the upgrading of brand power and the strategic layout of going abroad, and achieved substantial business development in the background of increasingly fierce competition in the industry, leading China's new energy vehicle sales for 11 consecutive years, retaining its No. 1 position in the global sales of new energy vehicles and creating a history for a Chinese automobile enterprise to rank top ten in terms of global sales for the first time, Wang Chuanfu, Chairman of BYD, stated in the annual financial report.

While solidifying and extending its advantages within the domestic market, the Group has swiftly progressed with its expansion into international markets, venturing into countries and regions such as Japan, Germany, Australia, Brazil, and the United Arab Emirates. Notably, in March 2023, the Group marked a significant milestone with the official groundbreaking for its inaugural overseas passenger vehicle production facility in Thailand. Furthermore, in July and December last year, it announced plans to establish expansive manufacturing complexes in Brazil and Hungary, respectively, aiming to construct a world-class production facility for new energy vehicles and actively pursue localized production.

In January 2024, the Group celebrated a significant milestone as its first Ro-Ro ships dedicated to automobile transportation embarked on their its voyage, heralding a new chapter in BYD's overseas market penetration. Looking ahead, more Ro-Ro ships will be deployed, bolstering transportation capacity for the Group's vehicles overseas and fostering sustainable growth across the automobile export industry.
The senator representing Bayelsa Central Senatorial District, Konbowei Benson, was arraigned before the FCT High Court in Abuja on Tuesday for allegedly forging exemption certificate of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

Mr Benson, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was arraigned on a three-count charge for acting contrary to provisions of Penal Code Act, forgery of the NYSC exemption certificate and submitting the forged certificate to secure admission into the School of Postgraduate Studies of the Imo State University, Owerri.

In February, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, instituted a forgery suit against the lawmaker.

In the suit marked: CR/028/2023, the IGP specifically accused the senator of forging a document titled Certificate of Exemption with number 000256454 and dated 4 July 2008.

Mr Benson was subsequently charged to court and was to be arraigned on 12 February at the FCT High Court in Abuja, but his absence, due to ill health, stalled the arraignment.

The senators counsel, Gordy Uche, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), told the court on that day that his client was medically indisposed and submitted a medical report to substantiate his claim.

My lord, the defendant is medically indisposed and cannot be in court. He is on a drip. I pray the court for an adjournment. I promise to provide him at the next proceedings, the counsel pleaded.

Charges

At the resumed proceeding on Tuesday, Mr Benson and his counsel were present.

Count one of the charges against the senator was that he acted contrary to the provisions of sections 366,156 and 158 of the Penal Code Act CAP 532 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990 and was liable to punishment under Section 364 of the same Act.

Other charges are That you, Benson Friday Konbowei, sometime in March 2014 within the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory fraudulently used as genuine a certain document to wit: Certificate of Exemption Number 000256454 dated 4th of July 2008 signed by the Director-General, NYSC, Directorate Headquarters, Abuja to the Independent National Electoral Commission to contest election into the Bayelsa State House of Assembly in 2015 election, which you won and represented Southern Ijaw Constituency IV and the Bayelsa Central Senatorial District National Assembly election conducted on February 25, 2023, which you won and currently a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

And you also submitted four copies of the same forged NYSC certificate to gain admission into the School of Postgraduate Studies of the Imo State University, Owerri, which you then knew to be a forged document and you submitted four copies of the forged Certificate of Exemption Number 000256454 dated July 4, 2008, as a compulsory requirement to the School of Postgraduate Studies of the Imo State

University Owerri, which is a compulsory requirement to get admission into the school of postgraduate studies to study.

Mr Benson, however, pleaded not guilty to all the charges when they were read to him.

The trial judge, Christopher Oba, adjourned the case till 28 March for the commencement of trial.

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A presidential spokesperson said Wednesday that President Bola Tinubu will attend the national burial for the Nigerian military officers and soldiers killed on 14 March by armed persons in Okuama Community in Delta State.

Bayo Onanuga, Mr Tinubus Special Adviser on Strategic Communication, did not, however, limit his post on X to announcing the presidents intention, he also took a dig at Mr Tinubus predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, for not attending the funerals of soldiers slain on duty.

It is the first time in the last ten years that a Nigerian President will attend such a solemn event, in honour of our men of gallantry and valour, Mr Onanuga wrote.

Two other burials in 2018 and 2021 were not graced by the incumbent president, Mr Onanuga wrote.

Mr Buhari was the Nigerian president between 2015 and 2023.

In November 2018, Boko Haram terrorists killed several Nigerian soldiers in different attacks on the Nigerian Army 157 Task Force Battalion in Borno state. Then the former chief of army staff Ibrahim Attahiru, a lieutenant general, and 10 other officers were also killed in an ill-fated military plane crash. Former President Buhari did not attend the burials on both occasions.

Mr Onanuga added in his post, We told you then that President Tinubu cares. He is demonstrating it yet again.

The post has since stirred controversy on X (formerly Twitter) with many Nigerians criticising Mr Onanuga for playing politics and having zero respect for the families of the slain soldiers.

Its disgraceful to exploit the deaths and funerals of military personnel for petty political attacks against other parties, an X user Ben Samuel said in reply to Mr Onanugas tweet.

Why not simply state that the president is attending the final farewell of the fallen heroes and end with a period, he said.

Another user, Lannister Aspiration, said: The last paragraph was not entirely necessary. It is acceptable for the president to express sympathy for the fallen soldiers, but attempting to politicise every action of the President, including attending a burial site of the fallen soldiers, is not in line with Bola Tinubus style.

Everything you said after the first full stop, is not necessary at all, are we celebrating the presidents presence at a funeral venue now, whether the President attend is not what is needed, talks should be about arresting the assailants and how living military officers wont face the same issue, said Wilex Williams, another user.

After the public outrage, Mr Onanuga edited the first version of the tweet, removing the section where he referred to the incidents in 2018 and 2021.

It is confirmed that President Bola Tinubu will be attending the national burial for the Nigerian military officers and soldiers killed on 14 March by some gunmen in Okuama Community in Delta State. It is the first time in the last ten years that a Nigerian President will attend such a solemn event, in honour of our men of gallantry and valor. We told you then that @officialABAT cares. He is demonstrating it yet again, the new version of the post reads.

Mr Onanuga has been a close ally of Mr Tinubu for decades and was a spokesperson for the president during his campaign. Mr Tinubu appointed him as his adviser on Information and Strategy last October.

Mr Onanugas slight dig at ex-President Buhari appears to reflect the relationship between the former presidents core supporters and those of the incumbent. The supporters have sometimes publicly criticised each others principal on social media despite belonging to the same party.

Although both men are members of the ruling party, APC, Messrs Buhari and Tinubu have had a topsy-turvy relationship amidst suspicions that Mr Buhari tried to stop Mr Tinubu from succeeding him.

Although Mr Tinubu has reversed some of Mr Buharis policies and accused some top officials of the Buhari administration of corruption, he has repeatedly praised Mr Buhari and refused to publicly criticise him since Mr Tinubu assumed office as president.

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The remains of 17 military personnel killed in the Okuama community in Delta State on 14 March have arrived at the National Military Cemetery, Abuja, for burial.

The bodies, which arrived at about 2:26 p.m. on Wednesday, were conveyed by the Military Ambulance Emergency vehicles and FCT Ambulance Emergency services, among others.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that President Bola Tinubu is being awaited by top government functionaries and top military echelons from various formations across the country currently on ground to pay last respects to the fallen heroes.

Also, distraught family members and relatives of the slain personnel as well as wives of other military officers were also on the ground.

NAN recalls that the troops of 181 Amphibious Batallion, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, while on peace mission to Okuama Community, were surrounded and killed by some irate youth in the community.

The incident occurred when the troops responded to a distress call after the communal crisis between the Okuoma and Okoloba communities both in Delta State.

The personnel comprised one Lieutenant Colonel, two Majors, one Captain, and 13 soldiers.

The officers are Commanding Officer 181 Amphibious Battalion, Lt. Col. A.H Ali; Maj S.D Shafa (N/13976); Maj D.E Obi (N/14395) and c (N/16348).

The soldiers are SSgt Yahaya Saidu (#3NA/36/2974); Cpl Yahaya Danbaba (1ONA/65/7274); Cpl Kabiru Bashir (11NA/66/9853); LCpl Bulus Haruna (16NA/TS/5844); LCpl Sola Opeyemi (17NA/760719); and LCpl Bello Anas (17NA/76/290).

They also include LCpl Hamman Peter (NA/T82653); LCpl Ibrahim Abdullahi (18NA/77/1191); Pte Alhaji Isah (17NA/76/6079); Pte Clement Francis (19NA/78/0911); Pte Abubakar Ali (19NA/78/2162); Pte Ibrahim Adamu (19NA/78/6079) and Pte Adamu Ibrahim (21NA/80/4795).

(NAN)

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President Bola Tinubu has awarded posthumous national honours to the 17 soldiers killed in Okuama community in Delta State about two weeks ago.

The president also promised scholarships and houses to the families of the military personnel.

President Tinubu announced the gesture on Tuesday during the burial of the slain military personnel at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.

They were killed on 17 March while on a peace mission to Okuama in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

The soldiers are A. Ali, a lieutenant colonel and commander of the team; SD Shafa and DE Obi, both majors; and U Zakari, a captain.

The others are Yahaya Saidu, a staff sergeant; Danbaba Yahaya and Kabir Bashir, both corporals; Abdullahi Ibrahim, Bulus Haruna, Sole Opeyemi and Bello Anas, all lance corporals.

Alhaji Isah, Clement Francis, Abubakar Ali, Adamu Ibrahim, Hamman Peter, and Ibrahim Adamu, all privates, were also murdered.

President Tinubu said while the four officers were honoured with Member of the Order of Niger (MON), the 13 soldiers were awarded the Officer of the Federal Republic Medal.

Each man now belongs to the hallowed list of servicemen and women who defended our country and protected their fellow Nigerians, not minding the risk to their own lives.

They have all been awarded posthumous national honours. The four gallant Officers have been accorded the Award of Member of the Order of Niger (MON). The thirteen courageous soldiers who also lost their lives have been Awarded the Officer of the Federal Republic Medal, he said.

President Tinubu said the federal government would provide houses for the families of the deceased military personnel and scholarships for all their children up to the university level.

The Federal Government will provide a house in any part of our country to each of the families of the four officers and 13 soldiers.

The federal government has also approved scholarships for all the children of the deceased, up to the university level, he said.

He also ordered the military to ensure that the families get the benefits and entitlement due to them.

The military must, within the next 90 days, ensure that all the benefits of the departed are paid to their families, he said.

President Tinubu said, As commander-in-chief, I do not take the contributions of members of our Armed Forces for granted. I recognise your valour and bravery. I honour your unflinching commitment to making our country safe from criminals, bandits, kidnappers and insurrectionists.

He said the military demonstrated restraint by not carrying out reprisal attacks against the communities where the incident happened.

He urged the military not to allow the death of the 17 men to demoralise them.

I wish to also commend our Armed Forces for their restraint in choosing not to carry out any reprisal attacks in Okuoma or its neighbouring communities.

We must all ensure that the innocent people of Okuoma are not made to bear the punishment of the guilty and wicked among them. To the entire Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I have a message for you. Do not let the death of your compatriots discourage you.

There is no higher honour than the vocation you have chosen to pursue. We cherish you. We cherish your labour of love.

We salute your daily sacrifice in protecting your fellow citizens from danger. We acknowledge your sacrifices to defend our nation, he said.

Some of the guests at the burial include the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.

Others are Governors Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Usman Ododo (Kogi), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), and Abba Yusuf (Kano).

Read the presidents full address

TEXT OF AN ADDRESS DELIVERED BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU AT THE FUNERAL OF THE FALLEN SOLDIERS AT NATIONAL CEMETERY ON WEDNESDAY MARCH 27, 2024

Protocols

Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff and other Service Chiefs, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief of Staff and other military officers.

It is with heavy heart that I join you today to commit to earth, the remains of our officers and men who died in the course of duty on 14 March 2024 in Okuama Community, Delta State.

The officers and soldiers who lost their lives that day were patriots, brave and noble men who gave their lives to defend and protect our nation against internal and external threats. Their sacrifice will be remembered and honoured for generations to come and their.

On 14 March, Lt. Colonel A. H. Ali, the Commanding Officer of 181 Amphibious Battalion, led three other officers and 13 soldiers to the Okuama Community to mediate in the lingering dispute with Okoloba Community.

They went as peace makers and peace keepers respectfully seeking to bring an end to the hostilities between the two communities.

They didnt go with tanks, machine guns and other weapons.

They were on a mission of peace.

Before the dastardly attack, Lt. Colonel Ali, as the Chief of Army Staff briefed me, enjoyed great operational exploits; fighting terrorists and insurgents in the North East and North West before his deployment to the Niger Delta.

Ali kept faith with his military calling till the end.

On behalf of a grateful nation, we honour the sacrifice of Ali and the other gallant patriots who died that day. They will forever be remembered as heroes who answered the call of duty and paid the ultimate price.

Lieutenant Colonel Ali,

Major D.E Obi,

Major S.D. Ashafa,

Captain U. Zakari,

Staff Sergeant Yahaya Saidu,

Corporal Danbaba Yahaya,

Corporal Kabir Bashir,

Lance Corporal Abdullahi Ibrahim,

Lance Corporal Bulus Haruna,

Lance Corporal Sole Opeyemi,

Lance Corporal Bello Anas;

Private Alhaji Isah,

Private Clement Francis,

Private Abubakar Ali,

Private Adamu Ibrahim,

Private Hamman Peter, and

Private Ibrahim Adamu,

Each man now belongs to the hallowed list of servicemen and women who defended our country and protected their fellow Nigerians not minding the risk to their own lives.

They have all been awarded posthumous national honours. The four gallant Officers have been accorded the Award of Member of the Order of Niger (MON). The thirteen courageous soldiers who also lost their lives have been Awarded the Officer of the Federal Republic Medal.

I commiserate with the families of our fallen heroes and the entire Armed Forces. I share in the pain and grief you carry today. It is my prayer that God will comfort all who are bereaved as a result of this tragedy.

It is worth restating the debt of gratitude we owe these valiant soldiers and their families.

As Commander-In-Chief, I do not take the contributions of members of our Armed Forces for granted. I recognise your valour and bravery. I honour your unflinching commitment to making our country safe from criminals, bandits, kidnappers and insurrectionists.

While we continue to grieve for the courageous men we lost that day, let us also, on this solemn occasion, be reminded of the unfinished business of working for peace and harmony in our communities.

We must begin to rebuild our communities and make them into places where love, tolerance and harmony will reign. Leaders at all levels especially community leaders and traditional rulers must work to strengthen the bonds that unite us. We must endthe cycle of violence and bloodletting.

I want to make it clear, once more, that those who committed this heinous crime will not go unpunished. We will find them and our departed heroes will get justice.

The elders and chiefs of Okuoma also have a duty to help the military in fishing out the gunmen who committed the barbaric crime against our men.

I wish to also commend our Armed Forces for their restraint in choosing not to carry out any reprisal attacks in Okuoma or its neighbouring communities. We must all ensure that the innocent people of Okuoma are not made to bear the punishment of the guilty and wicked among them.

To the entire armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I have a message for you: Do not let the death of your compatriots discourage you. There is no higher honour than the vocation you have chosen to pursue. We cherish you. We cherish your labour of love. We salute your daily sacrifice in protecting your fellow citizens from danger. We acknowledge your sacrifices to defend our nation.

Within our continent, our sub-region and across the world, the Nigerian Military has remained a force for good, embodying a great example and keeping our democracy safe.

It is now our duty to protect the families of our departed heroes.

The Federal Government will provide a house in any part of our country to each of the families of the four officers and 13 soldiers.

The Federal Government has also approved scholarships to all the children of the deceased up to the University level.

The Military must, within the next ninety days, ensure that all the benefits of the departed are paid to their families.

May the families of the departed and all their loved ones find the strength to bear the pain of this loss.

May God grant our heroes eternal rest.

May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and keep our troops safe, always.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu

President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

Commander-in-Chief, Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

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The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Taoreed Lagbaja, says the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army who were gruesomely murdered in Okuama Community in Delta on14 March, left behind 10 widows three of whom are pregnant and 21 orphans.

Mr Lagbaja made this known at the burial of the 17 personnel comprising one lieutenant colonel, two majors, one captain and 13 soldiers, on Wednesday at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.

According to him, the Okuama killing has added to the care of the Nigerian army and, by extension, the Nigeria state, 10 widows, three of whom are four, five, and eight months pregnant, 21 orphans, and many other dependents, including parents.

While commiserating with the families of these gallant soldiers, I assure them that the Nigerian army and the good people of this country will not leave them in the cold.

We shall do all within our power to provide succour to them and preserve the memories of their departed loved ones, he said.

Mr Lagbaja said he considered his toughest job to be putting fine men and women in harms way, sometimes knowing that they might not return to their families and loved ones.

He added that his men, correspondingly and intriguingly know that in spite of the equipment, training, and other forms of preparations, sometimes some may not make it back alive, while some may return handicapped.

According to him, when soldiers die in the hands of the enemies of the State, we take it as dying for what the nation has considered a just cause; we celebrate them as gallant heroes.

But when they are gruesomely murdered by the very people they are trained, equipped, and took an oath to protect, it is highly demoralising.

It is no longer news that 17 of the Nigerian Armys finest men, whom we have come to bury, were murdered in a reprehensible manner on March 14 in the Okuama community of Delta State while they went on a legitimate peace-making mission.

It grieves my heart that it took our search and recovery effort over 72 hours to recover some vital organs of the decapitated and disembowelled bodies of my men that were scattered all over the Okuama community by the community youths and their friends.

I consider it the most barbaric act any citizen or community can commit against the authority of the state, and I must place on record that a lot of restraints have been exercised so far in our search and recovery efforts for missing arms, ammunition, other equipment, and body parts.

I assure Mr President and all Nigerians that the Nigerian Army remains committed to its constitutional responsibilities and will not be deterred by setbacks such as witnessed in the Okuama community.

As tasked by Mr President and Commander-In-Chief of our Armed Forces, the Nigerian Army, with the assistance of its sister services and other security agencies, is committed to bringing the perpetrators of the Okuama murder to book and recover all service and personal belongings taken from the murdered troops.

The Nigerian Army will continue to seek the cooperation of all well-meaning Nigerians, particularly in the affected area, towards swift and successful conduct of our search and recovery operations, he said.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Christopher Musa, a general, said the fallen heroes exemplified the very best of service to nation and love for country.

Mr Musa said they were the vanguards of peace, the guardians of freedom, and the sentinels of security, adding that their selflessness and unwavering dedication to duty would forever be etched in their hearts and memories.

He assure the families of the deceased officers of the support of the nation and the armed forces in every way possible, urging them to find solace in the knowledge that their loved ones made an indelible mark on the nations history.

The defence chief said the military would honour their memory by continuing the fight against those who sought to undermine the peace and security of the nation.

We will remain steadfast in our resolve to build a nation worthy of your sacrifice.

The loss we feel today is immeasurable, but we must not allow it to dim the light of hope within us.

Instead, let us use this moment as a rallying cry to come together as a nation, to support our armed forces, and to work tirelessly towards a Nigeria free from the grip of violence and insecurity.

We owe it to these fallen heroes to honour their memory by redoubling our efforts to create a safer and more prosperous nation for all.

Let us build a nation where every citizen can live without fear, where communities can thrive, and where our children can grow up knowing the true meaning of security and stability.

To the men and women who continue to serve in the armed forces, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your dedication to duty.

Your commitment to defending our nation, even in the face of great peril, is truly commendable, he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that President Bola Tinubu, Speaker, House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and governors of Delta, Bayelsa, Kano, Kogi and Imo states, were in attendance.

The president announced the award of posthumous national honours on the slain soldiers as well as houses and scholarship for their children.

(NAN)

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) are to collaborate to address the issue of criminal content in Nigerian films and videos.

Both organisations announced this on Tuesday in Abuja when the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NFVCB, Shuaibu Hussaini, and his team visited the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede.

During the visit, Mr Olukeyede urged the NFVCB to regulate and censor such content to prevent it from shaping public perceptions and behaviour

We believe we have the right partner with you. Films and videos are meant to promote good moral standards. Your Board should continue to discourage the glamourisation of crimes in the film industry, he said.

He expressed concern over the glamourisation of internet fraud and currency mutilation in movies and called for the NFVCB to play a more proactive role in promoting ethical standards within the film industry.

ALSO READ: Shettima canvasses truthful communication in addressing misinformation

Mr Olukeyede also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the two bodies in combating corruption and misinformation.

The work of fighting corruption is for all of us. Several skits are flying around with an untrue portrayal of the EFCC and its officers. The NFVCB should look into this and stop such unprofessional practices, he stated.

In his remarks, Mr Hussaini reaffirmed the organisations commitment to ensuring that films adhere to ethical guidelines and do not glorify criminal activities.

He outlined the NFVCBs ongoing efforts to vet scripts and monitor content production to safeguard public interests.

He also condemned the dissemination of misleading information about the EFCC in skits and stressed the need for public enlightenment campaigns to support EFCCs anti-corruption mandate.

We are trying as much as possible to discourage the glamourisation of crimes in our movies. We are also trying to eliminate all those things movie makers are putting in their works that will make young people jump into schemes that are criminal in real life.

In doing this, we are starting from script writers, then the producers because the producers are the ones who supervise the contents, he said.

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As the appeal of a former commander of the rebel group Ulimo, of his

2022 war crimes conviction enters its final days, defence lawyers for Kunti Kamara

called on the three judge panel and nine jurors to overturn the conviction saying there is

a lack of evidence Mr Kamara committed the crimes.

According to Mr Kamaras lawyers, his earlier sentence of life imprisonment should not be

upheld because the evidence provided by prosecutors and civil parties is largely based

on the unreliable testimonies of victims and witnesses from events that happened 30

years ago.

Unlike in English/American based judicial systems including Liberia, where

the prosecution must convince the jury of the defendants guilt beyond a reasonable

doubt, prosecutors in the French system must convince the jurors that they have an

innate belief that the defendant is guilty.

Unlike the English-based system where the jury needs to be unanimous  meaning

juror must agree  for a conviction, the French system just needs a simple majority  7

of the 12 judges and jurors must find him guilty.

The defence has tried to persuade the jury that they  an all white jury  cannot have

enough confidence in the evidence to sentence a man to 30 years in prison only based

on the testimonies of people remembering traumatic events from 30 years ago.

I am asking you that Mr. Kamara should be acquitted after this hearing. I am asking

you to acquit him because the proceeding is not rigorous, Marilyn Secci, the lead

defence lawyer for Mr Kamara told the jury.

Ms Secci cautioned the jury that they should not be carried away with sympathy for the

extraordinary experiences described by the victims, urging them to base their verdict on

evidence.

She cited two rape incidents explained by two of the witnesses, arguing that

prosecutors had not proved Mr Kamara was the perpetrator of the rapes.

Ms Secchi said Mr Kamara should not be held as an accomplice of the crimes of rape since he

was not the one who raped the two women.

She argued that the two victims who testified did not say Mr Kamara was the one who

directly raped them, but instead another Ulimo commander who she claimed Mr Kamara

may have not had control over. She also pointed out there there is no forensic evidence  no

corpses or medical evidence  to prove what the victims were saying.

Ms Secci pointed to one witness who earlier testified before the court that six young men

were killed by Mr Kamara and other soldiers and their corpses were dumped into a well

near the Foya Market.

She argued the prosecutors did not provide forensic investigation

to establish the corpses of the six victims alleged to have been dumped in the well were

true.

In another plea on the charges of murder, Ms Secci countered prosecution witnesses

testimonies which she told the court were marred by inconsistencies. She was referring

to the murder of a schoolteacher and a woman that witnesses had earlier claimed

Mr Kamara shot, and killed, and her corpse set ablaze being accused of her being a witch.

We heard six witnesses who told this court that they were not on the scene at the time

(the man) was killed, but all said that when (he) was killed, his heart was removed and

that Kamara and other commanders ate (his) heart, is not credible.

About the looting of the generator from the Borma Hospital, Mr Kamaras lawyers also told

the court that there was no research report to refer to that was done by the Swedish

organization containing information about the looting of the hospital or that

the generator was looted. They contended that there is also no evidence to link their

client to the looting.

We see many variations, we, therefore, call on this court to say to the declaration by

(another witness) on the death of six men killed and thrown into a well, Ms Secci said. We

also want you to say no to an allegation of the womens murder, there is no death

certificate or any evidence to link Kamara.

Ms Secci told the court they find it difficult to understand how a court would apprehend their

client when there is nothing that proves the argument of the presence of Mr Kamara in the

places told by witnesses.

Mr Kamara in the earlier weeks of this appeal had told the court that he was not based in

Foya, but instead on the frontline in Menikoma, where he said he was leading Ulimo

fighters to push back the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels which had links with

Charles Taylors National Patriotic Front of Liberia, (NPFL) fighters from taking over

Foya.

However, almost all the prosecution witnesses, including two defence witnesses, had

confirmed before the court that Mr Kamara was based in Foya.

Following the defence lawyers presentation of their plea in favor of the accused, they

then asked that the sentence of life of imprisonment handed down by the first jury in

2022, be rejected and Mr Kamara be set free.

Referring to the Gibril Massaquoi acquittal by the Finnish court, who was acquitted

following his war crimes conviction due to the lack of sufficient evidence provided by the

prosecutor in Jaunary, Mr Kamaras defence lawyers pleaded with the court to do the

same.

Gibril Massaquoi is a Sierra Leonean man who was accused of war crimes in Liberia.

We cannot generalize what Ulimo did in Foya to what Mr. Kamara did, Ms Secci said. We

are not here in the trial of Ulimo, we are not here in the trial of all the crimes that were

committed in Liberia, but we are here in the trial of one man- Kunti Kamara, Ms Secchi told

the Tuesday.

The trial continues Wednesday with the jury deliberation.

This story was a collaboration with New Narratives as part of the West Africa

Justice Reporting Project.

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An International Press Conference announcing the inaugural convening of the Climate Action Africa Forum (CAAF24) concluded on Friday at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, marking a significant milestone in the journey towards a sustainable future for Africa, according to officials.

The conference, a precursor to the upcoming Climate Action Africa Forum scheduled from 17-19 June, 2024, at the Landmark Events Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, brought together leaders, experts, and stakeholders from across the globe.

The forums main goal was to discuss how urgently the African continent needs sustainable development plans and climate-smart investments.

Under the theme, Green Economies, Brighter Futures  Innovating and Investing in Africas Climate-Smart Development, the International Press Conference provided a vibrant platform for insightful discussions, strategic collaborations, and impactful engagements.

This brought together an esteemed gathering of leaders, experts, and stakeholders to explore solutions to Africas pressing environmental challenges.

Event

The event kicked off with a welcome address by the Executive Director & Co-founder of Climate Action Africa, Grace Oluchi Mbah, who announced the commencement of event registration as 2 April, 2024, and made the national call for tech-driven solutions and innovations in the fields of emissions reduction, transportation, agriculture, energy, building, and construction to apply to participate in the deal room.

Providing insights to attendees on how innovative approaches and collaborative action are at the heart of CAAF24, she extended an opportunity to like-minded organizations who would like to partner by hosting side events and finally, a call for volunteers from across the continent.

Its no news that the world stands at a critical juncture, where decisive action is imperative to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change. Against this backdrop, CAAF24 is a pivotal platform for key stakeholders to engage in meaningful discourse, and forge collaborative pathways towards a greener, more sustainable future, officials said.

Throughout the conference, distinguished speakers and thought leaders underscored the urgency of collective action in addressing Africas climate challenges.

Panel discussions delved into critical topics such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and climate finance, offering actionable insights and inspiring initiatives.

Taiwo Fashipe of Pi-CNG, acknowledged the critical role of cleaner energy solutions such as CNG in combating climate change and promoting sustainability.

Our partnership with the Climate Action Africa Forum reaffirms our dedication to driving climate-smart initiatives. We remain steadfast in supporting endeavors like CAAF24 that advocate for a greener and more resilient future for Africa.

As the International Press Conference concluded, it paved the way for the forthcoming CAAF24, where stakeholders will converge once again to translate ideas into action, forge strategic partnerships, and drive tangible progress towards a climate-smart Africa.

Meanwhile, the Director General of the National Council on Climate Change, Salisu Dahiru, echoed similar sentiments, stating, CAAF24 holds immense promise in galvanising collective efforts towards a greener, more prosperous Africa. Let us seize this moment to drive meaningful change and secure a brighter future for generations to come.

At a critical crossroads in Africas pursuit of sustainable development, CAAF24 shines brightly, bringing the private and public sectors together and pointing the continent in the direction of a future characterized by resilience, prosperity, and environmental stewardship.

Climate Action Africa Forum (CAAF) is a pioneering initiative dedicated to combating climate change and promoting sustainable development in Africa.

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President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Bassirou Faye on his election as the president of the Republic of Senegal.

President Tinubu noted that President-elect Faye comes with great promise and a sterling record, wishing him success as he takes on this important job of leading the good people of Senegal.

The president also congratulated President Macky Sall on overseeing an election that has been widely adjudged as peaceful and transparent.

President Tinubu stated that the success of the presidential election in Senegal and the successful conduct of the general election in Liberia a few months ago have affirmed his long-held conviction that the taproot of democracy is deeply established in West Africa and will only grow stronger as it is watered by good governance, justice, and fairness to all.

As the Chairman of ECOWAS, the president affirms that the successful conduct of the Senegal election is a boost to the sub-regional organisation in its efforts to promote peace and constitutional order, as well as strengthen ties among member states.

President Tinubu congratulates the people of Senegal and assures them of Nigerias best wishes and support.

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Chief Whip of the Senate, Ali Ndume, has called on state governments to subsidise the airfares of the 2024 Hajj for first-timers in their respective states.

Mr Ndume, who represents Borno South, made the call in a statement on Wednesday.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), on Sunday, increased the fee for the 2024 Hajj, citing the rising foreign exchange rate as the major reason for the increment.

About 49,000 pilgrims who had earlier paid the old fees of N4.9 million each to the commission are to pay an additional N1.9 million each on or before 28 March, while new registration has been fixed at N8.5 million

Reacting to the adjustment, Mr Ndume said it would be unfair on the part of the government and NAHCON to deny first-timers the right to perform the spiritual exercise, especially those who paid before the increment.

I am calling on state governments to subsidise the fares by paying the extra fees of the first timers. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and it is unfair to deny first timers the right to perform this spiritual exercise, especially after they have already paid the old fee set by NAHCON.

I do not think it is fair to ask them to pay almost N2 million again. Many of the pilgrims saved up the money for many years to enable them to participate in Hajj. You cannot deny such people the right to participate.

I strongly believe that the right thing to do is to subsidise the fee and take the extra burden away from pilgrims, especially first timers who deserve to participate in this years Hajj exercise. We need to help he said.

The senator bemoaned the increase in the Hajj fares.

He said the intended pilgrims should not be made to bear the consequences of such an increment.

The sudden hike in the fees intending pilgrims are expected to pay by NAHCON is unfair. You cannot impose such on them. They had already paid for it ahead of time. If there are any changes, the burden should be on NAHCON and not on the intended pilgrims, he said.

Mr Ndume therefore suggested that President Bola Tinubu should pay the increment rather than leaving the intended pilgrims to bear the consequences.

Something urgent needs to be done about this. I call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve the payment of the extra fee as directed by NAHCON. This is the right thing to do in order to save the situation Mr Ndume added.

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With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

YANGWANG delivers 5,000th YANGWANG U8 vehicle

YANGWANG, the premium vehicle brand of BYD, announced on March 26 it has delivered the 5,000th YANGWANG U8 vehicle at the YANGWANG Center in Xi'an Hi-tech Industries Development Zone. It took the automaker only 132 days to hit the delivery milestone.

YANGWANG U8; photo credit: YANGWANG

Lynk & Co's Co Pad to debut on Lynk & Co 07 EM-P

Lynk & Co announced on March 27 the launch of the Co Pad tablet, which enables interconnection with multiple devices supported by Meizu's Flyme Link technology. The Co Pad will debut on the Lynk & Co 07 EM-P model.

2024 Geely Preface hits market

The 2024 Geely Preface model recently hit the market. Coming with two trim levels, it features a price range of 129,700 yuan to 138,700 yuan. As the annual upgraded model, the new car has optimized some configurations, while adding sporty exterior kits, and more.

BYD scores year-on-year leap in 2023 revenue, profit

For the year of 2023, BYD recorded yearly revenues of 602.315 billion yuan, which jumped 42.04% over a year earlier. Among which, the annual revenues from the automobile, related products, and other products amounted to around 483.453 billion yuan, leaping 48.9% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the sector of the handset components, assembly service and other products saw its revenue grow 20% year on year to 118.577 billion yuan.

NIO Energy, Geely team up in EV charging field

On March 27, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Automobile Sales Co., Ltd. officially signed an open platform cooperation agreement with Wuhan NIO Energy Co., Ltd., according to a post on Geely Auto's Weibo account.

Under the agreement, vehicle owners of Geely's Galaxy range, GEOME range, Lynk & Co, ZEEKR, and smart brands will gain access to real-time information about NIO charging piles via their respective brand apps. This information includes location, pricing, availability, and navigation guidance, facilitating seamless charging experiences.

Unmanned delivery vehicle developer NEOLIX bags 600 million yuan in Series C financing

Chinese developer of unmanned delivery vehicles NEOLIX, recently completed a 600-million-yuan Series C financing round, according to its announcement on March 27.

11th-gen Hyundai Sonata hits Chinese market, starting at 139,800 yuan

On March 26, Beijing Hyundai officially put the 11th-generation Sonata onto the market with six variants ranging from 139,800 yuan to 186,800 yuan.

To attract customers, a special sales policy starting from 120,000 yuan was also introduced.

JAC Group, Huawei Device to co-boost HarmonyOS ecosystem advancement

On March 26, Chinese automaker JAC Group and Huawei Device Co., Ltd., signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of an intelligent information service platform.

Xiaomi invests heavily in intelligent driving, aiming to stand among industry leaders in 2024

Lei Jun, the CEO of Xiaomi, on March 26 announced on Weibo that Xiaomi is making significant investments in the field of intelligent driving, with its R&D team already surpassed 1,000 members, and is expected to exceed 1,500 by the end of the year.

Geely completes world's first unmanned vehicle drifting

Geely Auto announced on March 27 via its WeChat account that it recently achieved the world's first autonomous vehicle drifting using its proprietary Al digital chassis technology, marking a significant breakthrough the automaker has made in the global's intelligent safety and AI-enabled chassis technology fields.

Geely Galaxy's first all-electric SUV model named Galaxy E5

On March 26, Geely's new energy vehicle range Galaxy announced its first all-electric SUV model has been named the Galaxy E5. Alongside this unveiling, the company also shared a series of camouflaged vehicle images.

GAC AION's Hyper kicks off pre-sale of Hyper HT model in Thailand

On March 26, the media day of the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show, Hyper, the premium sub-brand of GAC AION, held a launch event for the Hyper brand in Thailand with the pre-sale of the Hyper HT model kicking off in this country at the same time.
Farmers from about 44 communities, villages and farm settlements in Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State have protested what they described as the take over of their farmlands by Chinese companies, depriving them of their sources of livelihood.

The farmers alleged that the state government had forcefully taken the lands and leased it to the Chinese companies.

To demand a reversal of the move by the government, the farmers, on Tuesday, marched on Ondo city and took the protest to the palace of the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom.

The farmers had also protested last year after the government said there was no going back on their relocation from the lands.

The state government is in a pact with the Chinese companies as part of efforts to attract investors to the state.

The protesters said they had sighted many bulldozers in their areas to clear their cash crops, especially cocoa farm.

They pleaded with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to reverse the leasing decision.

The farmers said the agrarian communities, which include Laosho, Laje, Eruwa, Ulugba, Adejori, Kabiyesi, Lafa, Oloruntedo, Obadore Yinka, Keseomi, Lomofe, Gbekelu, Langbodo, , Abuja, Lopaun, Sahara, Aba Cocoa, Topeu, Bolorunduro, Iyolope and Yemisi, were known for production of cocoa, palm oil, cashew and other cash crops.

Armed with placards with different inscriptions such as, We are dying, Help our children, Chinese want to kill us, Aiyedatiwa, jeki aye datiwa, and Save our Souls, among others, the farmers appealed to the state government to give them the privilege of paying a special due, if desired, to enable them retain the farms.

They requested the Ondo state government to stop the invasion to avert the destruction of their means of likelihood.

The Oloja of Eruwa, one of the communities in Ondo west local government area, Olalani Ibitoye, who spoke on behalf of the protesting farmers, appealed to the state government to allow them continue with their farming, considering the current economic hardship in the country.

We confirm that our farm lands had been sold to China by the immediate past administration of Akeredolu; we saw that they have brought in bulldozers to clear some parts, the community head said.

We felt we have been left alone to farm when we protested last year, and we had written petitions because this land belong to our forefathers. But recently, we saw them (Chinese investors) around again; we are appealing to all authorities involved that we have no other place to go, we do not want to be out there as hoodlums.

We have been here for many years, and I cannot go anywhere with my children. Im old. We are just asking the government to have mercy and leave us alone here, he added.

The Osemawe of Ondo kingdom, Victor Kiladejo, advised the community leaders to put their agitations on paper with signatures of all their leaders in order to table it before the Ondo state government.

We would take actions on this matter; we would get to the government on it. I charged the chiefs in these communities to put their agitation on paper, the monarch said.

Anything the community is going to do, we do not have to insult the government. We would channel our agitation wisely, and we are optimistic that the government would find something to do, he added.

The Chief Press Secretary to the state governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, in a reaction, said the government would look into the agitation.

The state government will not deliberately take the peoples means of livelihood, even while we strive to enhance the economy of the state by encouraging investments.

The government has taken note of the agitations of the communities and will look into finding an acceptable solution to the issue, Mr Adeniyan said.

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has asked political parties in Nigeria to shun misinformation and tone down negative rhetoric ahead of the two off-season elections in Edo and Ondo States.

INEC Chairperson, Mahmood Yakubu, stated this on Wednesday during the public presentation of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee Strategic Plan (2024-2028) in Abuja.

The event was hosted by the Westminister Foundation for Democracy (WFD) under the Nigeria Open Political Party (NOPP) project.

Mr Yakubu, who was represented by Kunle Ajayi, a national commissioner in INEC, said the political parties need to address the challenges of misinformation campaigns.

Beyond the primaries, we encourage IPAC to implore its members to tone down the negative rhetoric during campaigns and strongly appeal to their media warlords to shun the weaponisation of disinformation and spreading of fake news, as this tends to rile up religious, political and tribal sentiments, hence heating an already anxious and polarised society in the run-up to an election, he said.

Speaking on inclusion, Mr Yakubu said political parties should deepen the inclusion of youth, women and persons with disabilities in their activities.

He urged IPAC members to mainstream the Not Too Young Run Act and the Women in Politics Charter of Demands.

The Commission would like to draw the attention of the leadership of IPAC to the growing concern of the poor Inclusivity Index across party lines in Nigeria.

The Commission has consistently advocated for an inclusive electoral process backed by section 54 of the Electoral Act and has implemented targeted interventions in partnership with CSOs and its development partners to bridge this gap. However, the onus is on the Political Parties and IPAC to take the lead in advancing the cause of Electoral Inclusivity in their various parties, he said.

Mr Yakubu said the unveiling of the 2024-2028 SPA of IPAC is timely ahead of the two governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States because the content would help guide the actions of the political parties.

Deepen internal democracy INEC

Mr Yakubu also urged the political parties in Nigeria to deepen the internal democracy and conflict resolution mechanism in their parties.

He stated that political parties spend huge costs on pre-election matters.

According to him, the conduct of parallel primaries and the emergence of multiple candidates cost political parties so much.

We strongly urge political parties to deepen the practice of internal democracy as enshrined in their various party constitutions and guidelines to avoid acrimonious primaries.

Increasingly, the conduct of parallel primaries and the emergence of multiple candidates is a frequent occurrence.

Some of these infractions lead to unnecessary litigation among party members in which the commission is always joined and burdened as a party.

May I reiterate here what I stated at the quarterly Political Party Meeting last week, that the legal fees and cost of producing Certified True Copies (CTs) of documents can be used more productively in other electoral activities by both political parties and the Commission, he said.

The governorship election in Edo State will be held on 21 September, while that of Ondo State comes up on 16 November.

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There are indications that all may not be going as planned with activities leading to the selection of the next Olubadan following the death of the 42nd Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun.

According to tradition, the enthronement process for the next in line to the throne of the Olubadan was expected to begin immediately after the eighth-day prayer of the late Olubadan, which was held last week.

A meeting by the Olubadan advisory council, which was expected to have in attendance the next in line to the Olubadan throne, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, slated to hold on Tuesday, did not hold as planned.

At the planned meeting, Oba Olakulehins nomination was to be made by the Olubadan in council, and his nomination thereafter forwarded to the state governor.

However, there have been concerns regarding Oba Olakulehins health status as he has not been seen in public since the demise of the late Olubadan. He was also absent at the eighth-day prayer for the late Olubadan.

At the meeting convened by the Otun Olubadan, Rasheed Ladoja, billed to hold at Oja Oba on Tuesday, council members expected at the venue were absent as only Mr Ladoja himself was present.

Speaking with journalists, Mr Ladoja said other members of the Olubadan in council, who were absent, said the Olubadan-designate has not spoken to them. They have also not been able to ascertain his health condition.

He added that they were sceptical about whether he would be able to perform the roles of the Olubadan or not.

The meeting was called for today and I am supposed to be the convener of the meeting. That is why I am here.

He is also supposed to be here. But they want to make sure that he is ready, and when he is ready, he will be able to talk to them. I will call the meeting again anytime they are ready, Mr Ladoja said.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that the Council of Obas in Ibadan land had on Monday held a meeting from which High Chief Ladoja was excluded.

One of the council members, Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, disclosed that they held a meeting at the same Oja Oba on Monday but the next-in-line to Olubadan throne, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, was absent.

Oba Ajibade said the next-in-line to the Olubadans throne cannot be nominated in absentia for approval by Governor Seyi Makinde.

He said nine of them, who were crowned kings, were present at the meeting except for Oba Olakulehin.

He also disclosed that the meeting was for Obas and not Chiefs, saying they are the Oba Advisory Council.

Nine of us were in attendance. All of us are Royal Majesties. We are the Obas that the late Oba Lekan Balogun gave crowns to by the power conferred on him by our governor, Seyi Makinde.

We are the Oba Advisory Council. We are not chiefs. The only Oba who was not present at the meeting was Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, and we cannot nominate him in his absence, he said.

Oba Ajibade also stated that they had visited the house of Oba Olakulehin upon the demise of the late Olubadan but were told by his son, Sunbo Owolabi, that he was not around.

We met his son, who told us that Baba was not around. We told him that anytime he is around, they should let us know in order for us to pay homage to him as the new Olubadan.

Everybody knows what is going on in Ibadan. We know the next king. That is Baba Owolabi. He is the one that will become His Imperial Majesty, he added.

He, however, disclosed that he was unaware of the meeting Mr Ladoja convened.

I am not aware of any scheduled meeting. We, the Obas, met on Monday, and it was concluded that we will continue to wait till we see the new Oba, Oba Ajibade said.

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President Bola Tinubu says his administration is committed to deepening democracy by ensuring adherence to the rule of law and expediting the sustainable provision of good governance, justice, and fairness to all Nigerian citizens.

Speaking when he received a delegation from the United States Congress led by Cory Booker, a senator, at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday, President Tinubu said that while democracy must be defended, it must translate into tangibles of quality healthcare, good education, food security, shelter, and overall economic prosperity for the people of Nigeria.

He said Nigeria is a necessary partner for sustaining democracy in Africa and beyond, noting that as the continents biggest economy and largest democracy, Nigeria is well-positioned to set the best continental example by delivering good governance to its people.

Nigeria, as the giant of Africa, had suffered leadership elephantiasis years back. I am determined to change that. Adhering to the principles of democracy and the rule of law is very important to us. I wonder how democracy will survive if we do not fight for it. I fought for this democracy. I risked my life for it. Military truncation of democracy is unacceptable. The power of our citizens is and must remain supreme, the President said.

Emphasising the need for the United States to evolve a more prudent and pragmatic partnership with Africa, the Nigerian leader told the U.S. Congressional delegation that the United States should consider upscaling critical development programmes to strengthen ties with the continent.

It is important for our partners to help strengthen democracy in Africa. Our developmental programmes need serious capital. We are not asking for freebies. All we are asking for is understanding. After the Second World War, Europe was impacted. America developed and executed the Marshall Plan to pull them back up. Today, Europe is standing firm and tall as a result. What about a Marshall plan for Africa?

How can we be categorised and thrown into IMFs basket of trickle-down slices? We are blessed in Africa, but these are the same resources causing conflicts because of exploitation and a lack of alignment. The presence of the resources does not reflect in the living conditions of the people. We must not use yesterdays methods to address todays challenges. Nobody wants to risk their life to run away from Africa.

America needs to look at the situation in Africa critically. What is happening in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger emanates from a helpless feeling people have that they are not being helped economically. They find that their former colonial masters are not letting go and are still seeking to exploit them. We have mineral resources. What technology can you bring to help turn that into economic prosperity? Can you put de-risking finance in place to incentivize John Deere to assist us in massively mechanizing our food production processes? There is so much we can do in the advancement of education. See Africa as a necessary partner for the sustenance of democracy.

We are capable and willing to lift our own people out of poverty, President Tinubu affirmed.

Speaking earlier, Mr Booker described President Bola Tinubu as a visionary leader who took tough but necessary decisions for the good of Nigerians.

You are a leader of particular character. You have the courage to do very difficult things, right at the beginning of your term. Something that many American leaders should look to; someone who believes so much in their people that they can make difficult decisions and know that their country is resilient and strong to endure so that it can emerge stronger on the other side, Mr Booker said.

The U.S. senator noted that Nigeria and the United States are partners bound by shared values of democracy, rule of law, and commitment to peace and good governance.

I share my enthusiasm about deepening partnership between Nigeria and the United States. We know in America that there is no greater or more important partner for the United States on the African continent than its biggest country, its biggest democracy, and its biggest economy.

I am excited about the opportunity we have had to learn, to listen, to meet these extraordinary people in your community that share our common values of democracy, entrepreneurship, and commitment to peace and strong growth. We know the investments we make in this country in different sectors, and our partnership on security and counter-terrorism are not just for Nigerias benefit but for both of our countries benefit.

I can relate with what you are doing, Mr. President. I was the Mayor of Newark, New Jersey, for years, and I know what I had to go through to reverse the fortunes of one of Americas most impoverished and troubled megacities. Several Newark Mayors before me fell on corruption charges. I had to restore hope and confidence. I had to beg investors to come in and believe in our city. We were persistent and we broke through. Newark is dramatically different today. I see so many similarities between the sustainable turnaround I led and the efforts you are making to transform Nigeria for the better. You have a partner in the United States, Mr Booker said.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, drew the attention of the delegation to a resolution of the U.S. House of Representatives seeking to designate Nigeria as a country of concern over allegations of religious intolerance.

Appeal to them (the House), Nigeria has a constitution that pays critical attention to the rights of all citizens. There is no government that will support anything inimical to the provisions of the constitution, the minister said.

Responding, U.S. Congresswoman, Sara Jacobs, said the broad consensus in the U.S. House of Representatives and in the White House is to not place Nigeria back on the list of countries of concern.

Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

March 27, 2024

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Nigerias secret police, the State Security Services (SSS), has arrested four suspects, who allegedly kidnapped three people at the Me Lounge, a relaxation spot in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The SSS, Uyo command, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, Channels Television reported.

The secret police identified the suspects as Idris Abdullahi, Abel Ekong, Itoro Effiong and Nsisong Effiong,

PREMIUM TIMES last month reported that two of the three persons kidnapped at the lounge were yet to be released.

The victims were watching the African Cup of Nation, on 27 January, when the gunmen invaded the lounge and whisked them away.

One of the abducted persons, Abasiakan Eshiet, the chairperson of the Peoples Democratic Party in Nsit Atai Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, was freed.

According to SSS, the suspects have confessed to being part of a notorious syndicate responsible for some kidnappings in the state.

Investigation by the command led to the arrest of Mr Abdullahi, the driver of the syndicate in Port Harcourt, Rivers State along with a Toyota Sienna vehicle used for the operation on 16 February.

Mr Ekong was apprehended at Otua Sega community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State and on 26 February, while the duo of Itoro and Nsisong, two siblings were arrested in their residence at Mbak Etoi, in Uyo Local Government Area on 28 February.

During the investigation, the four suspects confessed their involvement in the kidnap of three victims at Me Lounge and other attacks across the state, it said.

Akwa Ibom State, regarded as one of the most peaceful states in the country, has been experiencing some security challenges, especially kidnapping, lately.

The incident at the lounge occurred less than a month after gunmen kidnapped a High Court judge in the state. The gunmen shot dead a police operative who was attached to the female judge.

The judge, Joy Unwana, was later freed.

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Rekhiat Momoh on Tuesday assumed office as the acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Eko Electricity Distribution Plc (EKEDC).

The company disclosed this in a statement signed by its board of directors.

According to the statement, this follows the redeployment of its erstwhile Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Tinuade Sanda, back to WPG Ltd, the core investor who seconded her to Eko Disco.

We wish to inform the general public that Mrs Rekhiat Momoh has today 26th March 2024 assumed the role of Acting CEO of Eko Disco, the statement said.

It explained that Mrs Momoh has been in the power sector for more than 31 meritorious years.

She has risen through the ranks in the power sector from the days of National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), and now Eko Disco, receiving several excellence awards, commendations and medals along the way.

A marketer by training, she has an MBA from Lagos State University. Shes a fellow of several organisations including Nigeria Institute of Management, National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria and several others.

She has attended several leadership and management courses and training programmes both locally and internationally, it said.

The board, however, expressed great confidence in her ability to perform the role effectively.

We have great confidence in her ability to perform this role effectively and take the company to greater heights.

The Decision

The EKEDC had earlier on Tuesday announced the removal of its MD/CEO, Ms Sanda.

The sack was contained in a letter dated 25 March, addressed to Ms Sanda and signed by the companys chairman, Dere Otubu.

The letter titled Implementation of NERC Directive on Seconded Staff said the decision was due to directives from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and takes effect immediately.

According to the letter, NERC has directed it to ensure that all staff working for the utility are employed by the utility directly.

We have received a NERC directive dated 21 March which instructed Eko Electricity Distribution Plc inter alia, as follows:

EKEDC is here directed to ensure that all staff working for the utility are employed by the utility directly, bound by applicable service conditions that are applicable to the employees of the utility and paid through the utilities payroll, the letter reads in part.

It said the DisCo is obligated to obey these directives due to the powers of NERC as stipulated in the Electricity Act 2023.

In compliance with the above directive, all seconded staff from WPG Ltd are being released by Eko Electricity Distribution Plc and returned to WPG Ltd. You are hereby relieved of your role, office, and position at Eko Electricity Distribution Plc effective immediately and returned to WPG Ltd your employer.

You are further directed to hand over to the highest-ranking staff of Eko Electricity Distribution Plc under you. We hereby record our appreciation of your valuable services and contribution to the growth and successes achieved by Eko Electricity Distribution Plc over the years as a seconded staff from WPG, it said.

West Power & Gas Limited (WPG) is a limited liability company incorporated under the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The consortium acquired a 60 per cent stake and controlling interest in Eko Distribution Company (Eko Disco).

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The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ben Kalu, has solicited the cooperation of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in boosting the exportation of primary products from Nigeria and Africa in general.

Mr Kalu made the call, Monday, when he visited the Director-General of the WTO, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, in Geneva on the sidelines of the ongoing 148th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentry Union (IPU) in Switzerland.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Levinus Nwabughiogu, the deputy speaker told Mrs Okonjo-Iweala of the challenges African farmers face in exporting their products.

Mr Kalu said African businessmen face hurdles in marketing their products, primarily due to aflatoxins contaminating them en route to their destinations. He added that the challenge is particularly pronounced within the context of The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants duty-free treatment to goods from specified sub-Saharan African countries (SSAs).

He, therefore, solicited the help of the WTO to set up centres in Africa for the treatment of the primary products packaged for export.

Africa is interested in exporting our primary products. We have always had issues with these primary products we are exporting. Aflatoxins, I dont know what you are putting together to help these products reduce that because its one of the complaints about products coming from Africa.

I dont know if there will be centres around Africa where businessmen who cannot afford to do this decontamination will get that particular centre and detoxify their products to be able to meet the quality specifications before selling them off. Is WTO interested in this and how much so? Are there programmes designed to be able to facilitate this? Mr Kalu enquired.

Responding to Mr Kalus enquiries, Mrs Okonjo-Iweala said that WTO is aware of the development and is also eager to assist countries in implementing their respective protocols on the issue.

At the WTO, we have been heavily promoting something we called re-globalisation. We are trying to persuade supply chains of companies located outside Africa, we are trying to tell them that this is also a good place.

WTO is very much aware. Many of the rules are built based on our rules. So, we have an interest in keeping in touch and making sure any country that wants to request our help to implement their protocols and so on will be able to do that. And we hope it will take off in a good way.

Now, one big thing we have to watch is, we cannot all trade the same thing to each other. We are growing primary products. We are not going to trade cocoa to Cote dIvoire. We can trade oil because most of them want oil, but we dont just want to trade that, she said.

Parliamentary Diplomacy: Kalu slams IPU over Gaza

Meanwhile, in his speech at the IPU General Debate themed: Parliamentary Diplomacy; Building Bridges for Peace and Understanding on Monday, Mr Kalu spoke on the use of parliamentary diplomacy by Nigerias parliament to settle issues outside the shore of the country.

He mentioned the intervention by the Nigerian parliament during the xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa in 2017 and 2019.

The lawmaker slammed the IPU for failing to reach a consensus on the Gaza cease-fire proposed by Nigerias Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

Sundays deliberation on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza showed us what parliamentary diplomacy should not be. We failed to reach a consensus, missing a crucial opportunity for collective action, Mr Kalu said.

Mr Akpabio had proposed a ceasefire, however, the body could not reach a consensus on the proposal.

Mr Kalu urged lawmakers present at the IPU to adopt parliamentary diplomacy to address the challenges facing the world. He also called for the setting up of a task force for Sudan.

It is a cause for concern that the plight of Africa, where thousands of lives are lost to ongoing conflicts, has yet to be addressed as an emergency item.

It is in this regard that IPU must as a matter of utmost imperative create a task force for Sudan. The unchecked crises in Sudan, Somalia, and D.R. Congo, all in Africa, create a ripple effect of instability across the continent, breeding conditions for extremism, mass displacement, and a drain on resources that could be used for development, Mr Kalu said.

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The price of a kidney in Kenya? Just under $1,000 plus a motorbike. That is how 30-year-old Joseph Japiny, from Oyugis town in Homa Bay County in western Kenya, got his boda boda  a motorbike taxi he uses to earn a living.

Mr Japiny told the ENACT project that he was introduced to Jadhot, a broker recruiting young men into the kidney-harvesting underworld that operates between Eldoret, Busia and Nairobi. Mr Jadhot said that if he donated one kidney, he would be paid $984 as a down payment and another $984 in the form of a Boxer motorcycle. This he could use as a boda boda taxi  a common occupation among young East African men.

Mr Japiny agreed to the deal and was taken to a private clinic in Eldoret for tests. Two weeks later, he was back in Eldoret where he received food and accommodation and underwent regular blood, urine and faecal tests over the next three weeks. Throughout this time, Mr Japiny had a minder  a person hired to look after those whose kidneys were going to be harvested.

In the fourth week, Mr Japiny was moved to a nearby clinic where his kidney was removed. He stayed there under observation for three days and then spent another three weeks in his hotel. During this time, he had regular check-ups by a doctor from India who did not speak Swahili. He was then given his motorbike and sent on his way.

The media have reported on allegations of illicit kidney harvesting in Kenya since 2019, and Mr Japinys story shows that the trade is continuing. The illicit enterprise involves a network of actors who exploit poverty and unemployment among young men in their mid-20s and early 30s to meet the black-market demand outside the country. It also points to significant legal shortcomings in protecting vulnerable young people.

A broker who spoke to ENACT on condition of anonymity said he had recruited over 100 young men in Oyugis in the past year. Most were from low-income families, and many had not been educated beyond high school. They wanted capital to start their businesses.

While many see this as an opportunity to support themselves and their families, they are not necessarily told of the dangers, which include high blood pressure and reduced kidney function that could lead to kidney failure. Some have complained of constant pain at the surgery site, while others say they struggle with long-term back pain.

The youths are lured by the prospect of cash, with some being paid as much as $5,077 (KES750 000) for a kidney. However, with the increase in young people seeking to donate their kidneys, the price has dropped to around $2,000 (KES300 000). This is despite one kidney on the international illicit market costing on average $85,000.

In western Kenya, youths based in rural areas serve as brokers and recruit vulnerable, healthy young men. These local brokers work closely with agents in cities such as Eldoret, who connect victims of organ trafficking to the clinics where the operations occur.

Clinics and private hospitals in Eldoret are allegedly key nodes in the illicit harvesting and supply of kidneys to recipients in India. At the clinics and rented properties where the surgeries are performed, Indian doctors are brought in to carry out the procedures and post-operative care. Minders play a critical role in escorting victims and organising their travel and accommodation. The clinic owners serve the value chain by supplying the harvested kidneys through the black market in India.

This network of local and international criminal actors goes largely unchecked. The Kenyan Health Act of 2017 provides for the donation of kidneys to relatives or for scientific purposes, within strict guidelines. But the act doesnt explicitly outlaw the illicit trade in which people agree to sell their organs  a loophole that aids illegal harvesting, storage and transportation of kidneys.

The Health Act imposes a fine of $65,700 or a prison term of up to 10 years, or both, for organ harvesting or trafficking. However, it is impossible to police organ harvesting when there is no existing legal provision for acts involving people willing to sell their kidneys for monetary gain.

While the Kenyatta National Hospital  Kenyas largest referral hospital  issued a statement in 2022 discouraging youth from selling their kidneys, much more needs to be done by authorities to prevent this trade.

For a start, the legal gaps need to be closed and clear regulations that accommodate this context must be put in place. Active and ongoing oversight of medical facilities and personnel is also required to ensure adherence to ethical practices governing organ removal, transfer and transplant in Kenya.

Willis Okumu, Senior Researcher, ENACT, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Nairobi

ENACT is funded by the European Union and implemented by the Institute for Security Studies in partnership with INTERPOL and the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime.

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).

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The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to activate the powers of his office as Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces to direct the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, to produce Segun Olatunji, the editor of FirstNews, who was abducted from his home in Lagos 12 days ago.

In a statement, on Tuesday, by its president, Musikilu Mojeed, and its legal adviser/chair, advocacy committee, Tobi Soniyi, IPI Nigeria said that multiple checks have revealed that Mr Olatunji is in the custody of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).

The DIA is an agency under the command of Emmanuel Undiandeye, a major general, who, in turn, reports to the Chief of Defence Staff, Mr Musa, a general.

For the past 11 days, the abducted journalist has been kept incommunicado, with his family, employers, and colleagues unaware of his whereabouts.

The statement said that IPI Nigeria had received inquiries about the journalists disappearance from all over the world.

The Institute, the statement added, has also contacted the Nigeria Police, the Nigerian Army, the Defence Intelligence Agency, the Defence Headquarters, and the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, seeking information on Mr Olatunji and demanding his release. But all the efforts have so far failed.

That has triggered speculations among journalists and human rights activists around the world that the Nigerian military may be keeping some vital information from the public concerning the journalists safety, IPI Nigeria said.

It, therefore, called on President Tinubu to direct the Nigerian military authorities to immediately release Mr Olatunji or charge him to court if he has committed any offence.

It urged the international community to pay attention to the unjust detention of Mr. Olatunji by the Nigerian military.

IPI Nigeria stressed that the rule of law demanded that an accused person be allowed to defend himself in a court of law within a reasonable time.

It noted that the requirement also conforms with the provisions of Nigerias 1999 Constitution, which forbids the detention of any citizen or resident beyond 48 hours, except with a valid court order.

According to reports, armed men in two unmarked vans arrived at Mr Olatunjis home in Lagos on 15 March. The men, two of whom wore military-style uniforms, introduced themselves as officers of the Nigerian Army and forced Mr. Olatunji to go with them. They declined to tell his wife, who witnessed the abduction, where he was being taken, the Institute recalled.

As a matter of urgency, it ,therefore, called on the military to tell the world why Mr Olatunji was arrested, where he is being kept, and why he has not been charged in court.

IPI Nigeria is reminding the Nigerian authorities that when it comes to upholding human rights, Nigeria continues to rank low in the comity of nations. Keeping a citizen beyond the period allowed by the Constitution will only worsen Nigerias standing in the International community. The time to act is now, the statement added.

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The Inter-Party Advisory Council of Nigeria (IPAC) has unveiled an action plan to cover the goals and aspirations of political parties in Nigeria.

The plan, which was unveiled on Wednesday in Abuja, contains actions to be taken to ensure public funding for political parties, among other things.

The event was hosted by the Westminister Foundation for Democracy (WFD) under the Nigeria Open Political Party (NOPP) project.

IPAC is the umbrella body of all the registered Political Parties in Nigeria.

To ensure the inclusion of all political parties, one of the goals set by the council is the restoration of public funding of political parties through the ongoing amendment of the 1999 Constitution.

At the end of the constitutional reform committee exercise of the 10th National Assembly, issues related to affirmative action, implementation of Justice Muhammed Uwais electoral reform committee report 2008 and restoration of public funding for registered political parties will be discussed and integrated into the amended constitution, IPAC said in the document.

The council further said, it will advocate for the enactment of inclusive electoral laws that guarantee equal opportunities for all political parties to participate in the electoral reform process on issues related to affirmative action, implementation of Justice Muhammed Uwais electoral reform committee report 2008 and restoration of public funding for registered political parties.

Uwais Committee Report

The panel, led by Justice Muhammadu Uwais, was set up by the administration of Umar YarAdua to review Nigerias electoral process.

The committee submitted its report in 2008 and among the recommendations was the transfer of the power to appoint INEC board from the president of the country to the National Judicial Council (NJC).

Also, the committee recommended that election petitions should have a time limit even as a Special Electoral Offences Commission is to be set up to try electoral offenders.

However, years later, the government has yet to fully implement the recommendations.

Plan to accelerate political parties development

Speaking on the plan, the Chairman of IPAC, Yusuf Dantalle, said the plan would have a spiral effect in the nations democratic space, more importantly, as citizens are facing hard times and disillusioned over economic stagnation, insecurity and lack of confidence in government at all levels.

He added that the plan would accelerate political development of the country as members of the Council are leaders of their political parties which produced all the elected public officers.

End money bags in political parties

In his speech, the former Senate President and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Pius Anyim, said that IPAC, being the umbrella body for all registered political parties in the country, must rise to the challenge and address salient issues in the political party system.

He said the parties must address the hijack of their machinery by money bags, usurpation of party leadership powers by government officials, lack of functional register, ethnicity and religion among others.

These are the challenges and the new leadership of IPAC must rise to the occasion.

Mr Chairman and your team, you have a lot in your hands to tackle; the journey to deepening democracy is still long and torturous.

Accordingly, the need to prioritise turnaround reforms in the parties has become inevitable. I, however, feel that with men like the new national leadership IPAC, I am confident that there will soon be light at the end of the tunnel, he said.

Earlier, the Country Director of WFD, Adebowale Olorunmola, said that Nigeria cannot address money politicians without the support of the political parties.

Mr Olorunmola said that WFD will continue to support political parties in the country to implement the plan.

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Fisker

The 2023 Fisker Ocean lineup is getting its prices slashed by between $14K and $24K, depending on the trim level.

The top-spec Extreme's base price drops from $63,937 to $39,937; the entry-level Sport and mid-tier Ultra now start at $27,437 and $37,437, respectively.

The dramatic price cuts come as Fisker fights to avoid bankruptcy, having recently paused production for six weeks to address the situation.

Fisker appears to be on the brink of bankruptcy, and today the California-based startup has announced that it is drastically slashing prices for the 2023 Ocean electric SUV. The lineup consists of three trim levels, starting with the front-drive Sport and moving up to better-equipped all-wheel-drive modelsthe Ultra and top-of-the-line Extreme.

The entry-level Sport sees its starting price drop by $14K, from $41,437 to $27,734. The mid-tier Ultra's starting price is cut $18K, from $55,437 to $37,437. Finally, the Extreme's previous base price has gone from $63,937 all the way down to $39,937, which amounts to a substantial $24,000 discount. All of these figures include the $2438 destination fee.

Fisker

Fisker said the reduced prices apply to 2023 models with the company new 2024 Ocean OS 2.0 software installed. The discounts will also go into effect this Friday, March 29. In its press release, the company said,"Fisker is strategically positioning Ocean to be a more affordable and compelling EV choice, competitively available to EV buyers."

ADVERTISEMENT

Car and Driver has reached out to a Fisker spokesperson to ask if the price cuts will apply to the 2024 Ocean too, however, we have yet to hear back from them. We will update this story if or when we get a response.

It's no coincidence that the dramatic price cuts come as the company fights to avoid bankruptcy. This past February, Fisker's problems became obvious after an ominous earnings call that provided a bleak outlook followed by mass layoffs. Then, starting last week on March 18, the company paused production for six weeks as it worked on a plan to address its current financial turmoil.

Story continues

While Fisker has announced a commitment from an existing investor along with a new wave of financing reportedly worth up to $150 million in gross proceeds, talks with a large unnamed automaker have since broken down, according to Reuters. Fisker has also been delisted from the New York Stock Exchange as its financial woes grow.

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The families of each of the slain 17 soldiers will get a house in any part of Nigeria courtesy of the federal government, President Bola Tinubu said on Wednesday at their funeral in Abuja.

Mr Tinubu, who also gave national honours to the soldiers, also announced scholarships to all the children of the deceased up to the university level.

The military must, within the next ninety days, ensure that all the benefits of the departed are paid to their families, the Nigerian leader said.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the 17 soldiers, including four officers, were killed in Okuama community in Delta State earlier this month. Military authorities said they were on a mission to restore peace between two warring communities  Okuama and Okoloba  when they were ambushed and murdered.

The killing has been condemned by most Nigerians and President Tinubu has ordered that the perpetrators be brought to book.

On Wednesday, the president reiterated his stance and urged community leaders to work with soldiers to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended.

I want to make it clear, once more, that those who committed this heinous crime will not go unpunished. We will find them and our departed heroes will get justice, Mr Tinubu said.

The elders and chiefs of Okuoma also have a duty to help the military in fishing out the gunmen who committed the barbaric crime against our men.

National honours

The president also announced national honours for the slain soldiers.

The four military officers, Lt.Col Ali, Major Obi, SD Ashafa and Captain Zakari earned the posthumous award of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga wrote in a post on X.

Sergeant Yahaya Sule got Federal Republic Medal 1, while the rest got Federal Republic Medal 11.

Reprisals

A few days after the killing of the soldiers, many houses in the Okuama community were razed and residents were made to flee to neighbouring communities. Many believe the action was a reprisal by aggrieved soldiers, a claim the military denied.

Mr Tinubu reiterated the position of the military that it did not carry out reprisals.

I wish to also commend our Armed Forces for their restraint in choosing not to carry out any reprisal attacks in Okuoma or its neighbouring communities. We must all ensure that the innocent people of Okuoma are not made to bear the punishment of the guilty and wicked among them, Mr Tinubu said.

Slain soldiers are patriots

Mr Tinubu described the slain soldiers as patriots.

They went as peacemakers and peacekeepers, seeking to bring an end to the hostilities between the two communities.

They didnt go with tanks, machine guns and other weapons. They were on a mission of peace.

The officers and soldiers who lost their lives that day were patriots, brave and noble men who gave their lives to defend and protect our nation against internal and external threats, he said.

The Nigerian leader encouraged the armed forces to not be deterred by the killing of the soldiers.

To the entire armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I have a message for you: Do not let the death of your compatriots discourage you. There is no higher honour than the vocation you have chosen to pursue. We cherish you. We cherish your labour of love. We salute your daily sacrifice in protecting your fellow citizens from danger. We acknowledge your sacrifices to defend our nation, he said.

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Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has launched a free food programme for the vulnerable people of the state.

The new programme, meant to cushion the biting effects of the economic hardship across Nigeria, replaces the yet-to-take-off policy of subsidising food items earlier announced by his administration.

Addressing the people during the programme launch on Tuesday at Itam Market, a popular local market in Uyo, Governor Eno said the programme will provide food for the people in the rural communities.

The event was live streamed on Facebook.

Mr Eno likened the policy to the New Deal, an intervention programme introduced by former US President Franklin Roosevelt between 1933 and 1939, to bring economic relief to the American people during the Great Depression.

We have come to launch Akwa Ibom new deal, which is aimed at mitigating and bringing down the high cost of staple food items, starting with garri, rice and beans that today seems to be beyond the reach of the vulnerable people, Mr Eno said.

New policy

To mitigate the economic hardship faced by the people of the state after the removal of the petrol subsidy by President Bola Tinubu, the Akwa Ibom State Government established a Bulk Purchase Agency to buy food items in large quantities and retail to the vulnerable people at subsidised rates.

Mr Eno, while signing a bill establishing the agency, disclosed that the agency would sell three food items  rice, beans and garri at 10kg each to the vulnerable people in the state who are enrolled in the state social register.

The beneficiaries, Mr Eno had said, would pay 70 per cent of the cost of the items, while the government will pay (subsidised) 30 per cent, including five per cent service charge (interest) to the market agent, PREMIUM TIMES reported.

Mr Eno, however, appears to have abandoned the subsidy policy. The state government is now giving out 5kg of the three staple food items to the vulnerable people captured in the social register.

Each of the beneficiaries would receive 5kg of either rice, beans or garri.

We decided to work with the market people all over Akwa Ibom. We want to partner with them to make sure food is made available to the people.

We will give food vouchers to people whose names are in the social register, and then they will go to any market and redeem the voucher.

The agent at the redemption centres will collate the vouchers, take them to Bulk Purchase Agency and they will be paid their money within 72 hours, he said.

Mr Eno said there is no guarantee that a beneficiary will get three vouchers at once. He told the people of the state to return to farms and grow food in order to sustain the free food programme.

The Bulk Purchasing Agency is an interventionist agency; we can intervene wherever we feel. We can intervene in cement, iron rods and anything to make sure that we take distributorship from the source, bring the goods and give to market people to sell and pay money to the government, he said, adding that the agency will not deal on rice, beans and garri only.

N1.5 billion interest-free loan for traders

The governor, at the occasion, announced a N1.5 billion interest-free loan for traders in the state. A microfinance bank will manage the loan, he said.

He promised to construct a park, solar lights, borehole water, drainages and toilets in the market.

Commissioner for works, youve heard what I said. My words must not fall to the ground. This work must start next week.

When the work is complete, the deal is that there will be no street trading. The day I commission the projects, this street trading must stop that day, Mr Eno said in a market where traders display wares on the highway, obstructing the free flow of traffic.

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A human rights activist in Delta State, Harrison Gwamnishu, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, accusing some police operatives in Anambra State of extorting $13,000 from a man. He said the money was meant for the mans school fees abroad.

In the petition dated 24 March and addressed to Mr Egbetokun through the Complaint Response Unit of the police, Mr Gwamnishu urged the police chief to wade into the matter and bring the perpetrators to the book.

The activist, in the petition, which he forwarded to PREMIUM TIMES, wants the inspector general of police to ensure the refund of the extorted money to the victim, whom he identified as Ekene Onyeogulu.

He posted part of the petition on X.

He said the erring operatives are attached to the State Investigation Bureau in the police headquarters in Anambra.

The extortion

According to Mr Gwamnishu, the armed police operatives broke into the victims house at an estate in Awka on 12 March.

Mr Onyeogulu narrated that he was immediately handcuffed and kept inside his sitting room while the officers went into his room to carry out a search without his consent and later brought out a marijuana and took him away.

The victim, according to the petition, was taken to the operatives office in Awka, and his phones were taken away.

Mr Gwamnishu said the victim was forced to sign a statement in custody. Afterwards, the operatives who searched his phone saw his account balance in a mobile wallet, they began to threaten him and forced him to transfer the amount to a mobile wallet address provided by them.

The money was extorted through Bitcoin, he said.

The operatives, Mr Gwamnishu said, warned the victim that he would be imprisoned if he disclosed the incident to his relatives or police authorities.

The police spokesperson in Anambra state, Ikenga Tochi, when contacted, told PREMIUM TIMES that an investigation on the matter has been ongoing for over two weeks now.

Mr Tochi said the commissioner of police in the state has waded into it and promised to update the public on the outcome of the investigation.

Police extortions soar despite punishment

Cases of police extortion in the country have continued despite punishment, such as dismissal from service, meted out to erring operatives.

The latest extortion allegations came a few weeks after an operative was dismissed while two others were suspended for allegedly extorting $3,000 from two Nigerians in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

A Divisional Crimes Officer of Abraka Division in Delta State was removed from office for allegedly extorting over N2 million.

This newspaper reported the detention of some operatives at the police headquarters in Abuja for allegedly extorting N30.3 million

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A senior commander of the Zamfara State Community Protection Guard (CPG), Aminu Sarkin-Baura, and one other unnamed official of the outfit were killed on Monday night while repelling an attack by terrorists on Tsafe town.

Residents said the terrorists invaded the town, which is the headquarters of Tsafe Local Government Area, around noon and kidnapped 14 road construction workers at their residence in Area 2.

Residents said Mr Sarkin-Baura and his team had joined soldiers in responding to a distress call on the attack.

Residents said the terrorists fought back, burning two operational vehicles of the army and the state security guards.

The terrorists had upon entering the town gone straight to the residence of the construction workers who were working on the Funtua- Gusau road and seized 14 of them.

Governor reacts

Governor Dauda Lawal, in a Facebook post, condoled with the families of the deceased persons, residents of Tsafe LGA and the state.

The attempt by the terrorists to invade Tsafe was resisted by our joint security task force.

I condole with the family of those who lost their lives in the attack. Especially the family of the late commander Aminu Sarkin Baura Tsafe, who lost his life in his resolve to protect his people. May his soul rest in peace.

My administration remains committed to doing all the needful to find a lasting solution to the problem, with the grace of God, the governor wrote in the condolence greeting.

He did not comment on the abduction of the construction workers.

Attacks

The attack in Tsafe was reported less than 24 hours after terrorists killed 11 people and abducted 20 others at Gidan Zuma, a community in Bungudu Local Government Area of the same state.

Zamfara is one of the states most affected by terrorism in North-west Nigeria. Different terror groups, locally called bandits, operate in the region, killing and kidnapping residents at will.

The terrorists travel in long convoys of motorcycles to reach their targets despite the presence of security personnel in the areas.

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A human rights activist in Delta State, Harrison Gwamnishu, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, accusing some police operatives in Anambra State of extorting $13 000 meant for the victims school fees abroad.

In the petition dated 24 March and addressed to Mr Egbetokun through the Complaint Response Unit of the police, Mr Gwamnishu urged the police chief to wade into the matter and bring the perpetrators to the book.

The activist, in the petition, which he forwarded to PREMIUM TIMES, wants the inspector general of police to ensure the refund of the extorted money to the victim, whom he identified as Ekene Onyeogulu.

He posted part of the petition on X.

He said the erring operatives are attached to the State Investigation Bureau in the police headquarters in Anambra.

The extortion

According to Mr Gwamnishu, the armed police operatives broke into the victims house at an estate in Awka on 12 March.

Mr Onyeogulu narrated that he was immediately handcuffed and kept inside his sitting room while the officers went into his room to carry out a search without his consent and later brought out marijuana and took him away.

The victim, according to the petition, was taken to the operatives office in Awka, while his phones were taken away.

Mr Gwamnishu said the victim was forced to sign a statement in custody. Afterwards, the operatives who searched his phone saw his account balance in a mobile wallet. They began to threaten him and forced him to transfer the amount to a mobile wallet address they provided.

The money was extorted through Bitcoin, he said.

The operatives, Mr Gwamnishu said, warned the victim that he would be imprisoned if he disclosed the incident to his relatives or police authorities.

The police spokesperson in Anambra State, Ikenga Tochi, when contacted, told PREMIUM TIMES that an investigation on the matter has been ongoing for over two weeks now.

Mr Tochi said the state commissioner of police has waded into it and promised to update the public on the outcome of the investigation.

Police extortions soar despite punishment

Cases of police extortion in the country have been on the increase despite punishment, such as dismissal from service, meted out to erring operatives.

The latest extortion allegations came a few weeks after an operative was dismissed while two others were suspended for allegedly extorting $3,000 from two Nigerians in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

A Divisional Crimes Officer of Abraka Division in Delta State was removed from office for allegedly extorting over N2 million.

This newspaper reported the detention of some operatives at the Force headquarters in Abuja for allegedly extorting N30.3 million.

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The Aliko Dangote Foundation has donated 80,000 bags of 10kg rice to support vulnerable communities across Lagos State.

The Special Adviser on New Media to the Lagos State Governor, Jubeil Gawat, announced this on Wednesday via his X handle.

According to Mr Gawat, the rice distribution flag off took place at the Lagos House in Ikeja.

Governor; founder and chairman of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; and chairman of First Bank of Nigeria Holdings Plc, Femi Otedola, were present at the event.

Following the removal of the fuel subsidy, many Nigerians have been grappling with the economic fallouts.

However, the state government has rolled out different measures to cushion the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.

One of such initiatives is the Ounje Eko food market where food items such as rice, beans, garri, bread, eggs, tomatoes and pepper, among others, are sold at 25% discount to residents every Sunday.

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MONTREALBrandon Wilde and Nick Sterling lead the cast of new Icon Male release Hidden Secrets, available now on all platforms through parent company Mile High Media.

Co-starring in the movie are Ian Levine, Trent Ferris, Roman Todd and Michael DelRay.

Cover models Brandon Wilde and Nick Sterling embody a passionate couple in the midst of sex, lies and drama, Mile High vice president Jon Blitt said. Featuring a top-notch cast, Hidden Secrets is compiled with scenes of real chemistry and intense action in true Icon Male style.

For more, visit www.IconMale.com and follow the brand on X @IconMale
Organizations with over 50 employees evaluated on company reputation, employee satisfaction, and growth

SAN FRANCISCO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sequoia, the pioneer in total benefits and compensation, today announced that more than 100 of its clients were honored on Forbes 2024 America's Best Startup Employers List.

Forbes partnered with market research firm Statista to evaluate 3,000 companies, focusing on three main criteria: company reputation, employee satisfaction, and growth. They looked at factors such as employee benefits, corporate culture, parental leave, and head counts over the past two years. Millions of data points were used in the scoring, and the 500 startups with the highest scores made the final ranking.

Over 20% of the companies on the list partner with Sequoia or Sequoia One, its PEO offering specializing in tech start-ups, to guide their total rewards strategy, including employee benefits, compensation, and overall people programs.

"We want to extend our congratulations to every client recognized on this list. Their commitment to taking care of their employees goes far beyond industry standard, and they deserve to be celebrated," said Christina Sullivan, Chief Client Officer at Sequoia. "It is our honor to partner with these organizations to help them come through for their people and achieve business outcomes."

Sequoia and Sequoia One clients who made the top 50 on Forbes' list include:

Coalition (#2)

Intersect Power (#4)

Lunar Energy (#10)

Mill (#15)

Faire (#27)

Chronosphere (#34)

Kodiak Robotics (#38)

Vanta (#41)

Brex (#46)

Salt Security (#48)

To view the full list of Forbes' 500 best startup employers, please visit https://www.forbes.com/lists/americas-best-startup-employers/.

About Sequoia

Sequoia is the leader in Total People Investment. We help companies create a people advantage through improving retention, attracting top talent, and increasing people-spend ROI. With expert advisory services across compensation and benefits and a powerful platform, we connect employee total comp programs with insightful people analytics so companies can manage their global people investment in real time to better meet the needs of their evolving workforce. Visit Sequoia.com or follow us on LinkedIn to learn more.

SOURCE Sequoia Consulting Group
ATLANTA, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The 5th Annual Global Volunteer Month, from April 1  30, 2024, is a time to recognize volunteers and people who actively support their communities through volunteerism and civic engagement. With volunteerism on the decline in the U.S. and varying rates of participation globally, Points of Light, is encouraging individuals everywhere to find just one volunteer opportunity or organization to engage with during April to reverse the trend.

"As we celebrate Global Volunteer Month, we recognize the power of people who work tirelessly in communities around the world to create social change," said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO at Points of Light. "Volunteering and service is a pathway to strengthening communities, combatting loneliness and building bridges for stronger civic society. Points of Light believes every person has the opportunity to make a meaningful difference."

According to a recent report, only 23% of Americans formally volunteered with an organization in the U.S. and just 6.5% formally volunteered globally. The U.S. is currently seeing the lowest percentage of volunteering since tracking began in the early 2000s. However, the research is clear: volunteering is an antidote to loneliness and has the power to connect individuals. It increases social interaction, enhances wellbeing and provides a sense of purpose. Plus, it expands empathy around social issues and raises awareness of community needs.

To help address these challenges, Points of Light sees a path for every individual to find a volunteer opportunity in their community, for organizations and companies to champion their mission and volunteerism and for all of us to thank special volunteers who have made an impact in our lives. Visit Points of Light Engage, the world's largest digital hub of virtual and in-person volunteer opportunities to get connected, use the toolkit, to thank and engage volunteers, and speak out on April 1 to help kick off the month.

With support from lead campaign sponsor, Phillips 66, and nearly 200 organization partners of Global Volunteer Month Program Champions and Heroes, Global Volunteer Month will be celebrated in a variety of ways during April.

Good Energy, Phillip 66's employee volunteerism program, was designed to inspire their employees to connect with neighbors and share compassion, talents and hard work to improve our communities. Through volunteerism, this initiative seeks to create community connections that inspire action, identify solutions to society's greatest challenges and improve lives.

"Supporting the communities where Phillips 66 operates is embedded into the company culture, and we're proud to be the lead sponsor of Global Volunteer Month," said Courtney Meadows, social impact manager at Phillips 66. "During our Good Energy Month last year, our employees volunteered over 13,000 hours, which resulted in more than $300,000 in grants back to local communities. We are engaged in philanthropic efforts during Global Volunteer Month and year-round because the benefits of volunteering reach far and wide."

On April 24, Points of Light President and CEO Jennifer Sirangelo will present a Daily Point of Light Award to Air Traffic Controller Chief Petty Officer William Noddin, stationed aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, USS George H.W. Bush, who has volunteered significant personal time to the community with the Sea Cadets. On April 25, nearly 1,800 Sailors from the ship will engage in volunteerism and service through the "Thousand Points of Light" Ship-Wide Day of Service, in collaboration with Points of Light affiliate VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads.

Global Volunteer Month is sponsored by Phillips 66 as the lead campaign sponsor and UPS Foundation as the supporting sponsor, as well as national program partners including The George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum, The Bush School of Government and Public Service, The George and Barbara Bush Foundation, The Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement, America's Service Commissions, Repair the World, Good Deeds Day, Peace Corps and Voices for National Service.

About Points of Light

Points of Light is a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world. We envision a world in which every individual discovers the power to make a difference, creating healthy communities in vibrant, participatory societies. Through 145 affiliates across 39 countries, and in partnership with thousands of nonprofits and corporations, Points of Light engages 3.7 million people in 16.7 million hours of service each year. We bring the power of people to bear where it's needed most. For more information, visit pointsoflight.org.

Contact: Kristin Whitaker, [email protected]

SOURCE Points of Light
LAS VEGAS, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Advanced Digital Solutions LLC, a Nevada-based corporation specializing in distributing data center infrastructure, IT hardware, audio-video products, telecommunications, and connectivity products, today announced plans for significant growth and employment opportunities in the Las Vegas area. Founded by Farhaad Sheikh, the company has established itself as a leader in providing comprehensive design and manufacturing services, including engineering, staffing, solution integration, and supply chain solutions.

Farhaad Sheikh - Entrepreneur

With a robust presence in Nevada and offices and warehouses across the nation, Advanced Digital Solutions LLC is strategically positioned to serve a wide array of industries, including government sectors, educational institutions, data center hyperscalers, critical facilities, hotels, casinos, airports, internet service providers, and contractors. The company's global reach, supported by international offices, enables it to meet the needs of global companies efficiently.

At the core of its success, Advanced Digital Solutions LLC boasts strong partnerships with top manufacturers, ensuring premium services and products for its clients. "Our relationships with leading manufacturers allow us to provide exceptional services and products that meet the evolving needs of our diverse clientele," said Farhaad Sheikh, Founder of Advanced Digital Solutions LLC.

In line with its growth trajectory, the company is set to expand its workforce in Las Vegas, Nevada. The upcoming job openings will include positions in application support services, computer programming, and computer systems analysis support services. This expansion reflects the company's commitment to fostering local talent and contributing to the economic growth of the Las Vegas region.

"We are excited about the opportunities this expansion brings, not only for our company but for the Las Vegas community. We are committed to creating jobs and investing in the local economy," Sheikh added.

For more information about Advanced Digital Solutions LLC and the upcoming employment opportunities, please visit www.adsii.com

Contact:

Farhaad Sheikh

Founder & CEO

Advanced Digital Solutions LLC

(725) 254-8402

[email protected]

www.adsii.com

SOURCE Advanced Digital Solutions LLC
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The aerospace market size in Mexico is set for substantial growth, with an estimated increase of USD 8,375.16 million forecasted between 2023 and 2027, at a remarkable CAGR of 18.27%. This surge is underpinned by several factors, including a favorable regulatory environment and an uptick in manufacturing firms.

Charts & data tables about market and segment sizes for a historic period of five (2017-2021) years have been covered in this report. Download The Sample Report

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Mexico Aerospace Market 2023-2027

Key Drivers of Growth:

A favorable regulatory environment, characterized by harmonized standards and agreements such as the 2012 Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA), has fueled market expansion. These agreements, like the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) and AS9100 aerospace quality management system, facilitate manufacturing operations in the aerospace industry.

Report Coverage Details Page number 121 Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 18.27% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 8,375.16 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023(%) 17.98

Notable Trends:

Mexico's aerospace export has experienced a substantial average annual growth rate of 14% from 2004-2019, driven by programs like the Maquiladora Export Program. The emergence of small-scale companies and major aircraft OEMs, alongside a low-cost manufacturing ecosystem, further propels export growth.

Challenges to Overcome:

Despite promising growth, challenges persist. The downgrade of Mexican aviation regulations from Category 1 to Category 2 by the US FAA in 2021 poses obstacles. This downgrade restricts new routes and aircraft changes, impacting market dynamics and hindering potential growth.

For more insights on the market - Download The Sample Report

Customer Landscape:

The market analysis includes the adoption lifecycle, ranging from innovators to laggards, and emphasizes regional adoption rates. Additionally, key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity are outlined to aid companies in refining growth strategies.

Major Players:

Leading aerospace companies such as Bombardier, Airbus Group SE, and General Electric Co. are driving market growth through strategic initiatives such as partnerships and product launches.

To learn more about this report - Download The Sample Report

Market Segmentation:

The government segment dominates the market, fueled by control over numerous airports and substantial defense budget allocations. Initiatives like the establishment of a state-owned airline and investments in the air force further boost growth prospects.

Analyst Overview:

Mexico's aerospace market exhibits robust growth, driven by industrial exports and a thriving manufacturing sector. Key players, supported by industry federations, benefit from trade agreements and collaborations with global giants like Boeing and Airbus. Strategic locations and a skilled workforce contribute to market competitiveness.

In conclusion, Mexico's aerospace market presents immense opportunities for growth, supported by favorable regulations, export programs, and strategic partnerships. Despite challenges, the industry's trajectory remains promising, positioning Mexico as a significant player in the global aerospace landscape.

Mexico's aerospace industry has surged in recent years, emerging as a key player in the global market. The Federacion Mexicana de la Industria Aerospacial (FEMIA) has been instrumental in promoting this growth, fostering collaboration among aerospace manufacturing firms across the country.

Situated in close proximity to major aircraft OEMs and suppliers in the United States, Canada, France, and Germany, Mexico offers a strategic advantage for aerospace exports. This proximity not only facilitates efficient supply chain management but also enables quick access to markets and customers.

Mexico's aerospace sector specializes in producing engines and engine parts, fuselages, cargo doors, landing gear assemblies, avionics, and other components. With competitive labor costs and a skilled workforce, the country has become an attractive destination for aerospace manufacturers.

Key aerospace clusters such as Baja California, Queretaro, Sonora, Nuevo Leon, and Chihuahua have emerged, supported by robust university programs that provide specialized training in design and engineering capabilities. These clusters have fueled market competition, driving innovation and technological advancement within the industry.

The presence of major players like The Boeing Company, Airbus SE, Safran, Bombardier, and General Electric underscores Mexico's significance in the global aerospace landscape. Additionally, partnerships with companies like Honeywell International Inc. have further bolstered Mexico's manufacturing capabilities.

Mexico's aerospace market growth has been accelerated by favorable trade agreements, allowing for seamless integration into international supply chains. The country's commitment to fostering a conducive business environment has attracted significant investment from multinational corporations.

Companies like Latecoere Group have established a strong presence in Mexico, leveraging the country's skilled workforce and competitive advantages to expand their operations. Furthermore, government initiatives aimed at promoting research and development have strengthened Mexico's position as a hub for aerospace innovation.

Looking ahead, Mexico's aerospace sector is poised for continued growth, driven by ongoing investments, technological advancements, and a commitment to excellence. With its strategic location, skilled workforce, and favorable business environment, Mexico remains a key player in the global aerospace industry, offering immense opportunities for stakeholders across the value chain.

To learn more about this report - Download The Sample Report

Market Overview

The aerospace industry in Mexico, represented by the Federacion Mexicana de la Industria Aerospacial (FEMIA), is a dynamic sector contributing significantly to the Mexican economy. Aerospace manufacturing firms in Mexico have established themselves as key players in the global market, attracting major aircraft OEMs and suppliers from countries like the United States, Canada, France, and Germany. Companies like the Latecoere Group have expanded their operations to Mexico, leveraging its skilled workforce and strategic location. With a focus on aerospace industrial exports, Mexico continues to strengthen its position as a competitive hub for aerospace manufacturing, driving innovation and economic growth in the region.

To learn more about this report - Download The Sample Report

Related Reports:

The aircraft micro turbine engines market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 1,136.05 million . Advancements in engine technologies are notably driving the market growth, although factors such as high production costs and delays in engine deliveries may impede the market growth.

is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by . Advancements in engine technologies are notably driving the market growth, although factors such as high production costs and delays in engine deliveries may impede the market growth. The commercial aircraft PMA market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.66% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 206.72 million . The growing number of air passengers is notably driving the market growth, although factors such as the growing popularity of recycled aircraft parts may impede the market growth.

Table of contents:

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 US

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
Hookle, a Finland-based social media innovator, is set to revolutionize social media marketing for small businesses worldwide with its latest enhancement to Hookle AIDE. The AI-powered social media assistant and automated post generator now boasts multilingual support for over 50 languages, empowering small businesses to connect with audiences across the globe. With this groundbreaking advancement, Hookle AIDE is poised to transform the way small businesses engage with customers, ensuring authenticity and relevance in every communication.

HELSINKI, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Finland-based social media innovator Hookle announces the launch of a new version of its AI-powered social media assistant and automated social post generator, Hookle AIDE, now equipped with multilingual support for over 50 languages. With this latest enhancement, Hookle AIDE is poised to revolutionize social media marketing for small businesses worldwide, providing them with the tools to connect with audiences across languages.

Since its inception, Hookle has been committed to democratizing social media marketing for small businesses. Leveraging advanced AI technology, the Hookle AIDE social media content assistant analyzes user preferences and automatically generates content tailored to the user's preferred language, ensuring authenticity and relevance in every communication.

Tero Seppala, CEO of Hookle, expresses his enthusiasm for the new release: "With Hookle AIDE's multilingual support, small businesses can effectively communicate with customers around the world. This represents a significant milestone in our mission to empower entrepreneurs and level the playing field in the digital marketplace."

While AI-generated content is often seen as lacking the "human touch," Tero sees personalized, authentic content as the future of AI-based social posting: "The customization possibilities in Hookle AIDE already give the user the opportunity to include a lot of their personality in the AI prompt. With every update, we are getting closer to the point where the AI essentially replicates the user's personality, automatically generating content in the user's voice, saving time while maintaining authenticity."

In addition to multilingual AI post generation, Hookle continues to offer its other core features, including personalized content suggestions, efficient scheduling, and powerful social media analytics, all in one user-friendly platform. The Hookle app is available for download on both iOS and Android platforms.

Looking ahead, Hookle remains committed to leading the way in accessible and effective social media marketing solutions tailored to the unique needs of small businesses, continuously developing new features for smart and efficient social media management. This ensures that small businesses can stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.

Contact

Tero Seppala, CEO at Hookle, [email protected], linkedin.com/in/teroseppala

About Hookle:

Hookle is a Finland-based social media innovator dedicated to democratizing social media marketing for small businesses worldwide. With its AI-powered platform and user-centric approach, Hookle empowers entrepreneurs to connect with audiences, expand their reach, and drive business growth in the digital age. For more information, please visit www.hookle.net.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

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The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/22901/3942238/2655031.pdf Release https://news.cision.com/hookle/i/title-ai-to-take-over-social-posting-around-the-world,c3282867 Title AI to Take Over Social Posting Around the World https://news.cision.com/hookle/i/hookle-aide,c3283671 Hookle AIDE

SOURCE Hookle
Plumbing Company Now Serves the Seven County Metro Area and Western Wisconsin with Expert Drain Cleaning Services.

WOODBURY, Minn., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Long-time, local plumbing company, A.J. Alberts has proudly expanded their plumbing offerings to include drain cleaning. The 35-year-old family-run business began their operations in plumbing, remodeling and new construction. Over their career, they've built up a following of loyal customers and an extensive showroom for plumbing products and fixtures. Now, by popular demand, AJ Alberts's customers can schedule their stand-out drain cleaning with the same plumber they've come to trust over the years.

Bo Conner, owner of A.J. Alberts discussed the push behind the new service: "Over the course of time, we've had so many requests from customers looking for drain cleaning that we've recently added it to our product mix." Conner also emphasized "Our drain cleaning personnel are amazing! We now have a 4.9 Google rating with hundreds of reviews. We'll continue to help our customers with all of their plumbing needs in their homes and businesses."

Regular drain cleaning and maintenance is crucial for all homes and buildings. Roots, clogs and older pipes conspire to create potential back-ups or even burst sewer lines. AJ Alberts recommends having your drain lines cleaned and inspected at least once per year. Proper maintenance prevents the need for costly sewer line replacement. To schedule drain cleaning in St Paul, Minneapolis and the surrounding area, contact AJ Alberts today.

Drain cleaning is just one of the many crucial plumbing services that AJ Alberts offers. Customers can also depend on the Woodbury plumbing company for water softeners, water heaters, toilets, faucets, reverse osmosis filters, sump pumps, water pressure issues, gas line repair and boiler service.

About A.J. Alberts Plumbing

In service since 1989, family-owned A.J. Alberts serves both residential and commercial customers. They've grown their small operation to provide plumbing services across the Twin Cities and surrounding suburbs including western Wisconsin.

Their unique showroom allows customers to select faucets and plumbing fixtures before they schedule installation. A.J. Alberts only installs the best, in-house tested products and brands such as TOTO, Delta, and Blanco. Call us at (651) 615-3637 for all your plumbing and drain cleaning needs.

SOURCE AJ Alberts
The awards will support educator development in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- American College of Education (ACE) has announced a partnership with the Indiana Association of Public Education Foundation (INAPEF) to award full tuition scholarships to four education professionals in Indiana representing the MSD of Wayne Township, Tippecanoe School Corporation, Center Grove Community School Corporation and Lake Central School Corporation. The recipients will receive what amounts to $25K worth of scholarship funding for the 2023-24 school year.

"It's beyond exciting to partner with INAPEF," ACE Chief Growth Officer Monica Carson said. "We look forward to following each of the recipients throughout their educational journeys and watching the impact their education will have in classrooms and districts statewide."

Both organizations aim to use the scholarships to support INAPEF member organizations and ACE's mission of providing access to affordable, flexible and high-quality education.

"This collaboration is a great way to support educator development in Indiana," INAPEF Association Administrator Krista Baber added. "We can't wait to continue creating more opportunities to help educators reach their career goals."

About American College of Education

American College of Education (ACE) is an accredited, fully online college specializing in high-quality, affordable programs in education, business, leadership, healthcare and nursing. ACE is ranked #2 on Newsweek's 2023 top online colleges list. Headquartered in Indianapolis, ACE offers more than 60 innovative and engaging programs for adult students to pursue a doctorate, specialist, master's or bachelor's degree, along with graduate-level certificate programs. In addition to being a leader in online education, ACE is a Certified B Corporation.

About INAPEF:

INAPEF'S 72 education foundation member organizations raise more than $16 million annually to support K-12 education outcomes for students throughout the state. While these foundations have traditionally supported classroom grants and scholarships, many of these organizations now find themselves more involved in funding district-wide initiatives. By helping connect district staff with affordable higher education opportunities, these non-profit foundations can support their partner school corporations to combat the teacher shortage.

INAPEF was formed in 2000 to grow the number of public education foundations and to strengthen them as philanthropic leaders. To learn more about INAPEF and the different ways they support local education foundations, visit https://www.inapef.org/.

SOURCE American College of Education
CERTIFICATION INCLUDES NEW PACKAGING SEAL FOR PRODUCTS MADE WITH INGREDIENTS GROWN BY AMERICAN FARMERS

ST. LOUIS, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Anheuser-Busch recently announced the national rollout of its newly-adopted U.S. Farmed certification and seal for several of its industry-leading beer brands, showing support for farmers in the U.S., including Oregon, where the state's farmers sold $6.8B worth of agricultural products in 20221. Developed and verified by the American Farmland Trust (AFT), a national nonprofit that helps to keep American farmers on their land, the U.S. Farmed certification and packaging seal helps shoppers choose products that derive at least 95 percent of their agricultural ingredients from farms in the United States.

Anheuser-Busch is a proud supporter of American farmers, including farmers in Oregon whom the brewer purchases over $6M in hops from each year for Budweiser, Bud Light and Busch Light. Consumers in Oregon are empowered to purchase U.S. Farmed certified products to benefit U.S. farmers and invest in the future of domestic ingredient sourcing, helping to ensure a vibrant and thriving agricultural sector in America for generations to come. The U.S. Farmed seal will first appear on Anheuser-Busch's Busch Light this May, and Budweiser, Bud Light and Michelob ULTRA have also obtained U.S. Farmed certification.

Companies across the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) industry are encouraged to join the effort by obtaining U.S. Farmed certification for their domestically-sourced products. AFT will use funds raised through those certifications to expand programs and provide U.S. farmers across all 50 states with free resources and expert advisory services to help them access, protect, and maintain American farmland.

By harnessing the potential of U.S. sourced goods across the entire CPG industry, the U.S. Farmed certification aims to create a far greater impact for American agriculture than any one company could alone. This industry-wide effort will be supported by an Anheuser-Busch led campaign, "Choose Beer Grown Here," to encourage consumers to seek the U.S. Farmed certification and seal when shopping for products.

"American farmers are the backbone of this country, and Anheuser-Busch has been deeply connected to the U.S. agricultural community and committed to sourcing high-quality ingredients from U.S. farmers for more than 165 years  that's who we are," said Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth. "We source nearly all the ingredients in our iconic American beers from hard-working U.S. farmers  many of whom we have worked with for generations. The U.S. Farmed certification takes our commitment to the next level, and we are proud to lead the industry in rallying behind American farmers to ensure the future of U.S. agriculture, which is crucial to our country's economy. We look forward to other companies joining us in seeking U.S. Farmed certification for their products so that together we can make an even greater impact and show our support for American farmers."

The U.S. Farmed certification comes at a critical moment for American agriculture. According to AFT, within the next 15 years, ownership of over 30 percent of our nation's agricultural land could be in transition as the current generation of farmers prepares to retire. At the same time, farmland loss threatens the very foundation of our agricultural capacity, and new and beginning farmers are often challenged to secure the capital needed to enter agriculture. The U.S. Farmed certification will address this challenge head on by providing growers in Oregon and across the country with access to the direct support needed to pursue their options for maintaining and protecting their farmland, as well as innovative strategies for transitioning their land to the next generation of farmers.

"For over four decades, American Farmland Trust has worked tirelessly to ensure the land that sustains us remains in farming and its soils stay healthy and productive. Now, with the launch of the U.S. Farmed certification, we're taking a bold step to help secure the future of American agriculture and create both a movement and a market niche that celebrates and supports our nation's farmers," said Beth Sauerhaft, PhD, AFT Acting President and CEO. "Each U.S. Farmed certification has the potential to open new opportunities for farmers to receive assistance with succession planning, farmland protection tools for their operations, and other useful tactics to safeguard their land  our nation's food systems. We appreciate Anheuser-Busch's leadership in bringing the U.S. Farmed certification to some of the country's most iconic brands, while also making tangible impact for American farmers."

"We are excited to partner up with American Farmland Trust and Anheuser-Busch to champion American-grown products through the U.S. Farmed certification," said Gayle Goschie, Owner at Goschie Farms. "Sourcing locally means investing in high-quality products and the future of American agriculture. U.S. Farmed guarantees that American farmers receive the resources that'll help maintain and protect farmland."

"Oregon's farmers are a pillar of our state's economy and have a proud history of producing top-quality crops," said Oregon State Representative Vikki Breese-Iverson. "American Farmland Trust is fighting to keep that tradition alive with their new U.S. Farmed certification, an initiative that encourages consumers to choose products that directly support Oregon farmers and rural communities across the country."

For more information on the U.S. Farmed certification and seal, including resources for American Farmers and product certification, please visit http://www.farmland.org/us-farmed.

Learn more about Anheuser-Busch's commitment to U.S. farmers here http://www.anheuser-busch.com/USFarmed.

ABOUT AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. AFT launched the conservation agriculture movement and continues to raise public awareness through our No Farms, No Food message. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 7.8 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and supported thousands of farm families. Learn more at www.farmland.org.

ABOUT ANHEUSER-BUSCH

At Anheuser-Busch, our purpose is to create a future with more cheers. We are always looking to serve up new ways to meet life's moments, dream big to move our industry forward, and make a meaningful impact in the world. We hope to build a future that everyone can celebrate, and everyone can share. For more than 165 years, Anheuser-Busch has carried on a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. Today, we own and operate more than 120 facilities, including breweries, wholesaler distribution centers, agricultural facilities and packaging plants, and have more than 18,000 colleagues across the United States.

We are home to several of America's most loved beer and beyond beer brands, including Michelob ULTRA, Cutwater Spirits, Stella Artois, Budweiser and Bud Light as well as a number of regional brands that provide beer drinkers with a choice of the best-tasting craft beers in the industry. From responsible drinking programs and emergency drinking water donations to industry-leading sustainability efforts, we are guided by our unwavering commitment to supporting the communities we call home. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

1 USDA National Agricultural Statistics Services (2022). Census of Agriculture. Retrieved from https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/index.php.

SOURCE Anheuser-Busch
CERTIFICATION INCLUDES NEW PACKAGING SEAL FOR PRODUCTS MADE WITH INGREDIENTS GROWN BY AMERICAN FARMERS

ST. LOUIS, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Anheuser-Busch recently announced the national rollout of its newly-adopted U.S. Farmed certification and seal for several of its industry-leading beer brands, showing support for farmers in the U.S., including Texas, where the state's farmers sold $32.2B worth of agricultural products in 20221. Developed and verified by the American Farmland Trust (AFT) , a national nonprofit that helps to keep American farmers on their land, the U.S. Farmed certification and packaging seal helps shoppers choose products that derive at least 95 percent of their agricultural ingredients from farms in the United States.

Anheuser-Busch is a proud supporter of American farmers, including rice farmers in Texas whom the brewer purchases over $11 million in rice from each year for Budweiser and Bud Light. Consumers in Texas are empowered to purchase U.S. Farmed certified products to benefit U.S. farmers and invest in the future of domestic ingredient sourcing, helping to ensure a vibrant and thriving agricultural sector in America for generations to come. The U.S. Farmed seal will first appear on Anheuser-Busch's Busch Light this May, and Budweiser, Bud Light and Michelob ULTRA have also obtained U.S. Farmed certification.

Companies across the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) industry are encouraged to join the effort by obtaining U.S. Farmed certification for their domestically-sourced products. AFT will use funds raised through those certifications to expand programs and provide U.S. farmers across all 50 states with free resources and expert advisory services to help them access, protect, and maintain American farmland.

By harnessing the potential of U.S. sourced goods across the entire CPG industry, the U.S. Farmed certification aims to create a far greater impact for American agriculture than any one company could alone. This industry-wide effort will be supported by an Anheuser-Busch led campaign, " Choose Beer Grown Here ," to encourage consumers to seek the U.S. Farmed certification and seal when shopping for products.

"American farmers are the backbone of this country, and Anheuser-Busch has been deeply connected to the U.S. agricultural community and committed to sourcing high-quality ingredients from U.S. farmers for more than 165 years  that's who we are," said Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth. "We source nearly all the ingredients in our iconic American beers from hard-working U.S. farmers  many of whom we have worked with for generations. The U.S. Farmed certification takes our commitment to the next level, and we are proud to lead the industry in rallying behind American farmers to ensure the future of U.S. agriculture, which is crucial to our country's economy. We look forward to other companies joining us in seeking U.S. Farmed certification for their products so that together we can make an even greater impact and show our support for American farmers."

The U.S. Farmed certification comes at a critical moment for American agriculture. According to AFT, within the next 15 years, ownership of over 30 percent of our nation's agricultural land could be in transition as the current generation of farmers prepares to retire. At the same time, farmland loss threatens the very foundation of our agricultural capacity, and new and beginning farmers are often challenged to secure the capital needed to enter agriculture. The U.S. Farmed certification will address this challenge head on by providing growers in Texas and across the country with access to the direct support needed to pursue their options for maintaining and protecting their farmland, as well as innovative strategies for transitioning their land to the next generation of farmers.

"For over four decades, American Farmland Trust has worked tirelessly to ensure the land that sustains us remains in farming and its soils stay healthy and productive. Now, with the launch of the U.S. Farmed certification, we're taking a bold step to help secure the future of American agriculture and create both a movement and a market niche that celebrates and supports our nation's farmers," said Beth Sauerhaft, PhD, AFT Acting President and CEO. "Each U.S. Farmed certification has the potential to open new opportunities for farmers to receive assistance with succession planning, farmland protection tools for their operations, and other useful tactics to safeguard their land  our nation's food systems. We appreciate Anheuser-Busch's leadership in bringing the U.S. Farmed certification to some of the country's most iconic brands, while also making tangible impact for American farmers."

"The U.S. Farmed seal, pioneered by AFT and achieved first by Anheuser-Busch, is an incredible testament to the importance of buying products that are locally sourced," said Neal Stoesser, rice farmer at Stoesser Family Farms. "Texas growers are critical to the U.S. economy, and we are excited about the large impact this certification will have on the future of Texan farmlands."

For more information on the U.S. Farmed certification and seal, including resources for American Farmers and product certification, please visit http://www.farmland.org/us-farmed .

Learn more about Anheuser-Busch's commitment to U.S. farmers here http://www.anheuser-busch.com/USFarmed .

ABOUT AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. AFT launched the conservation agriculture movement and continues to raise public awareness through our No Farms, No Food message. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 7.8 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and supported thousands of farm families. Learn more at www.farmland.org .

ABOUT ANHEUSER-BUSCH

At Anheuser-Busch, our purpose is to create a future with more cheers. We are always looking to serve up new ways to meet life's moments, dream big to move our industry forward, and make a meaningful impact in the world. We hope to build a future that everyone can celebrate, and everyone can share. For more than 165 years, Anheuser-Busch has carried on a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. Today, we own and operate more than 120 facilities, including breweries, wholesaler distribution centers, agricultural facilities and packaging plants, and have more than 18,000 colleagues across the United States.

We are home to several of America's most loved beer and beyond beer brands, including Michelob ULTRA, Cutwater Spirits, Stella Artois, Budweiser and Bud Light as well as a number of regional brands that provide beer drinkers with a choice of the best-tasting craft beers in the industry. From responsible drinking programs and emergency drinking water donations to industry-leading sustainability efforts, we are guided by our unwavering commitment to supporting the communities we call home. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram .

1 USDA National Agricultural Statistics Services (2022). Census of Agriculture. Retrieved from https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/index.php .

SOURCE Anheuser-Busch
Survey Identifies Andersen as a Leader Among Construction Brands

BAYPORT, Minn., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Andersen Corporation, manufacturer of America's most loved brand of windows and doors*, has been recognized as one of Newsweek's 2024 Most Trustworthy Companies in America, in the construction category.

"At Andersen, we take immense pride in delivering exceptional products for the way people live. Being recognized as one of Most Trusted in America reaffirms our belief that prioritizing quality, transparency, and craftsmanship resonates deeply with our customers," said Chris Galvin, president and chief executive officer at Andersen.

Andersen Corporation has been recognized as one of Newsweeks 2024 Most Trustworthy Companies in America, in the construction category, for the second consecutive year.

The Newsweek Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list evaluates U.S.-based companies with $500 million or more in annual revenue. The list was developed in collaboration with market research partner, Statista Inc., and based on an independent survey of approximately 25,000 Americans. The list recognizes companies that have demonstrated exceptional trustworthiness based on a range of factors, including transparency, corporate governance, financial performance, and social responsibility.

Respondents rated companies on three touchpoints of trust: customer trust, investor trust, and employee trust; including if they believed individual companies treated their customers fairly, treated their employees fairly, and would be good long-term investments. Companies also received a social listening score based on the aggregation of mentions and a sentiment analysis over a four-month period.

In addition to making the 2024 America's Most Trustworthy list, Andersen has been recognized in several recent awards including:

For more information and to see the entire list of the 2024 Most Trustworthy Companies in America, please visit newsweek.com.

*2022 Andersen brand survey of U.S. homeowners

ABOUT ANDERSEN CORPORATION

Andersen was founded in 1903 on the philosophy of working "all together" to deliver on its promise to its customers. Every day, the company's more than 13,000 employees are empowered to imagine what's possible and do what's right. Andersen delivers products for the way people live, unsurpassed performance for the comfort and peace of mind homeowners desire, and endless design options to achieve any style.

Headquartered in Bayport, Minn., Andersen Corporation and its subsidiaries manufacture and market window and door products under the Andersen, Renewal by Andersen, EMCO and MQ brands. Andersen, a privately held company, operates manufacturing sites across North America and Europe. Andersen has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's 2024 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year  Sustained Excellence Award. Visit us at andersenwindows.com.

Follow us on Facebook @AndersenWindows and Instagram @andersen_windows.

SOURCE Andersen Corporation
OTTAWAMembers of the Canadian Parliament are pressing for age verification provisions to be added to the Online Harms Bill, C-63, introduced by the government.

The regionalist Bloc Quebecois party disclosed to The Globe and Mail that it intends to introduce an amendment to C-63 to ensure people 18 years or older must confirm their identification in order to access pornographic material.

Rheal Eloi Fortin MP, of Quebec, the party's chief critic of the Canadian Department of Justice, told the Ottawa newspaper that he is surprised that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government neglected to add age verification language to the Online Harms Bill.

Trudeau's government said it would present its own age verification proposal to counter a proposal like Bill S-210, which was introduced by Sen. Julie Miville-Dechene, also of Quebec, and has been stalled since December.

The Online Harms Bill requires "age-appropriate" design features for websites, but not verification of a user's age. In addition, it requires platforms to take down child sexual abuse materials within 24 hours of reporting, among other trust and safety overhauls.

For Fortin, this isn't enough. But Trudeau's government has been critical of the age verification methods proposed in S-210.

During a press conference on Cape Breton in Nova Scotia in February, Trudeau said that adults [shouldn't] have to give their ID and personal information to sketchy websites, or create a digital ID ... to be able to browse the web where they want."

Justice Minister Arif Virani told MPs in the House of Commons recently that "the idea of uploading and the age-verification measure, such as ones government ID, is something that has been roundly criticized, including by people like law enforcement whod be concerned about what that kind of privacy disclosure would do in terms of perpetuating financial crimes against Canadians," reports The Globe and Mail.

Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has also criticized Trudeau's government, calling for a unified opposition front to implement age verification laws.

The Quebec-based Aylo, the parent company of Pornhub, and its ownership group, Ethical Capital Partners, recently came out in support of age-appropriate design strategies such as all mobile devices being opt-out of parental controls, not opt-in.
LOS ANGELES, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Avocado Green Mattress proudly announces the publication of its 2023 Impact & Sustainability Report , a comprehensive overview of the company's steadfast commitment to sustainability, community, and advocacy for a healthier planet. Amidst growing concerns over environmental degradation and social inequalities, Avocado's report underscores the company's innovative approaches to combating climate change, fostering social responsibility, and maintaining transparency and trust in its practices.

Key Highlights from the 2023 Impact Report:

Sustainable Growth: Avocado has continued to set the standard for environmental stewardship in the industry. With the most rigorous material and supply chain certifications, the company has significantly increased its waste diversion from landfills from 78% to an impressive 85% as part of its Zero Waste initiative.

Avocado has continued to set the standard for environmental stewardship in the industry. With the most rigorous material and supply chain certifications, the company has significantly increased its waste diversion from landfills from 78% to an impressive 85% as part of its Zero Waste initiative. Advocacy and Leadership: Avocado has played a pivotal role in advocating for critical environmental policies. In California , the company supported legislation to enhance transparency about emissions and climate risks, reinforcing its position as a leader in environmental advocacy.

Avocado has played a pivotal role in advocating for critical environmental policies. In , the company supported legislation to enhance transparency about emissions and climate risks, reinforcing its position as a leader in environmental advocacy. Community Impact: The company's nationwide donation program, in tandem with charitable contributions exceeding 2% of its revenue, has positioned Avocado as a community-focused brand dedicated to social well-being. Notably, Avocado's efforts have earned it recognition as a B Corp Best For the World honoree in the Community Impact category, placing it among the top 5% of all B Corp companies globally.

The company's nationwide donation program, in tandem with charitable contributions exceeding 2% of its revenue, has positioned Avocado as a community-focused brand dedicated to social well-being. Notably, Avocado's efforts have earned it recognition as a B Corp Best For the World honoree in the Community Impact category, placing it among the top 5% of all B Corp companies globally. Sustainability in Every Stitch: Avocado's commitment to sustainability extends to every product it creates. By utilizing certified organic or renewable materials and manufacturing mattresses and furniture in the U.S., the company ensures durability, reduces environmental impact, and supports local economies.

Avocado's commitment to sustainability extends to every product it creates. By utilizing certified organic or renewable materials and manufacturing mattresses and furniture in the U.S., the company ensures durability, reduces environmental impact, and supports local economies. Climate Neutral Certified: Avocado has been a Climate Neutral Certified company since 2019, measuring annual cradle-to-consumer emissions, offsetting them by investing in climate change solutions, and taking action to reduce emissions.

Avocado has been a Climate Neutral Certified company since 2019, measuring annual cradle-to-consumer emissions, offsetting them by investing in climate change solutions, and taking action to reduce emissions. Organic and Safety Certifications: Avocado proudly holds certifications from the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), ensuring that its products meet the highest standards of organic and ethical sourcing. Additionally, the company's products are GREENGUARD Gold Certified, certified to MADE SAFE standards for non-toxicity, and adhere to the strictest standards for health and safety, offering consumers peace of mind and contributing to a healthier living environment.

A Higher Mission

As Avocado Green Mattress looks to the future, it remains dedicated to not only being the best in the world but also the best for the world. The company's efforts to combat climate change, enhance social equity, and promote sustainable practices are more than just part of its business model; they are a call to action for businesses and individuals alike to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.

About Avocado Green Mattress

Avocado's dream is to be the world's most sustainable brand  the pinnacle of GOTS-certified organic mattresses, luxury bedding, and quality American-made furniture. We are radically honest about our sourcing, manufacturing, and materials, adhere to the most rigorous organic and non-toxic standards, and are fearless advocates for social responsibility and environmental stewardship. We are a "Best for the World" Certified B Corporation , Climate Neutral Certified , meet MADE SAFE standards , two-time winner of Good Housekeeping's Sustainable Innovation Awards, and are the Pinnacle Award Winner from 1% for the Planet .

Visit https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com for more information, or contact Mark Abrials at [email protected] .

for more information, or contact at . To read the full 2023 Impact & Sustainability Report, please visit https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com/pages/2023-impact-report .

. To listen to "A Little Green" podcast, visit https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com/pages/a-little-green-podcast

For brand and product imagery, visit https://avocado.frontify.com .

SOURCE Avocado Green Mattress
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Beer Packaging Market report has been published by Technavio. A dynamic surge is anticipated between 2023 and 2027, projecting a substantial growth of USD 2,031.4 million at a CAGR of 2.74%. This robust expansion is fueled by a concoction of factors including the burgeoning online retail landscape, heightened utilization of PET bottles, and a flourishing craft beer sector gravitating towards metal cans.

Download A PDF Sample Report

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Beer Packaging Market 2023-2027

Driving Innovation:

A significant catalyst propelling this growth is the escalating demand for metal cans, particularly from the craft beer realm. Recognized for their ability to preserve beer quality by shielding against light and oxygen, metal cans are becoming the vessel of choice for brewers worldwide. Notably, the US witnessed a 5.14% surge in canned beer consumption, reflecting a global trend towards embracing this packaging medium.

Market Report Coverage Details Page number 169 Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 2.74% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 2,031.4 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023(%) 2.03 Regional analysis APAC, Europe, North America, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 47% Key countries US, China, UK, Germany, and Brazil

Embracing Sustainability:

However, amidst this evolution, environmental concerns loom large. The traditional glass and metal packaging, while popular, pose challenges due to their carbon footprint and landfill impact. This has ignited a shift towards eco-friendly alternatives such as flexible pouches. Innovations like the Beer Cartridge Pouch, designed to extend beer freshness while minimizing environmental impact, are gaining traction in the market.

Regional Dynamics:

Asia-Pacific emerges as a pivotal contributor to the market's growth, accounting for 47% of the global market share. Driven by a burgeoning middle-class population and changing consumer preferences, nations like India and China are witnessing a surge in beer consumption. Market players are leveraging strategic partnerships and innovative packaging solutions to capitalize on this burgeoning market.

To learn more about this report - Download A PDF Sample Report

Industry Collaboration:

In this dynamic landscape, industry players are deploying a spectrum of strategies to fortify their foothold. Companies like Gamer Packaging Inc. are offering comprehensive supply chain solutions, while giants like Amcor Plc and Ardagh Group SA are leading the charge with innovative packaging solutions. Collaboration between key players, such as Asahi Breweries and Asia Brewery, underscores the industry's commitment to meeting evolving consumer demands.

Market Outlook:

Looking ahead, the beer packaging market promises continued expansion, driven by a convergence of consumer preferences, technological advancements, and sustainability imperatives. As brands vie for consumer attention, custom packaging solutions and sustainable practices will emerge as key differentiators. From recyclable aluminum cans to biodegradable options, the industry is poised for a transformative journey towards a more sustainable and innovative future.

Get a glance of this market - Download A PDF Sample Report

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the beer packaging market is at the cusp of a transformative phase, fueled by innovation and sustainability. As industry players navigate this dynamic landscape, collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability will serve as the cornerstone for success in the years to come.

Analyst Review

The beer packaging market is a dynamic arena influenced by various factors such as consumer preferences, industry regulations, and environmental concerns. Manufacturers in the beer industry are constantly innovating to meet the demands of consumers while adhering to stringent regulations and adopting sustainable practices.

In recent years, there has been a notable shift towards eco-friendly packaging materials in response to growing environmental awareness. This trend has led to the exploration of alternative materials such as cardboard packaging, compostable options, and lightweight packaging to reduce transportation costs and minimize the environmental impact of beer packaging.

Glass bottles remain a popular choice among consumers due to their perceived premium quality and recyclability. However, there is a growing interest in lightweight glass bottles to reduce transportation costs and improve sustainability. Similarly, aluminum cans are gaining traction in the beer packaging market due to their recyclability and convenience.

Craft beer breweries, in particular, are embracing innovative packaging formats such as growlers and pouches to differentiate their products and attract consumers' attention. Limited releases and specialty packaging further enhance the appeal of craft beer brands, driving growth in this segment of the market.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the beer packaging market, prompting breweries to explore home delivery services and online sales channels to reach consumers amidst lockdowns and social distancing measures. This shift towards e-commerce has accelerated the adoption of custom packaging solutions tailored to the needs of online retailers and direct-to-consumer shipments.

Sustainability is a key focus area for breweries and packaging manufacturers alike, with a growing emphasis on recyclable aluminum cans, biodegradable materials, and reducing overall environmental impact. Government regulations and non-government organizations play a crucial role in shaping industry practices and encouraging the adoption of sustainable packaging solutions.

Overall, the beer packaging market is characterized by constant innovation, driven by consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and environmental concerns. Craft beer breweries, in particular, are driving growth in the market with their emphasis on unique products, specialty packaging, and sustainable practices. As the industry continues to evolve, the demand for innovative packaging solutions that balance consumer preferences with environmental sustainability is expected to remain high.

Get a glance of this market - Download A PDF Sample Report

Market Overview

The beer packaging market is a dynamic sector within the beverage industry, driven by various factors such as regulations, consumer preferences, and sustainability concerns. Beer manufacturers strive to meet stringent labeling requirements while adopting sustainable packaging materials to minimize environmental impact. From store shelves to home delivery services, beer retailers demand packaging solutions that not only preserve product freshness but also enhance brand visibility. Cardboard cartons and insulated packaging have emerged as popular choices for their eco-friendliness and protective qualities. As the beer market continues to evolve, packaging materials play a crucial role in ensuring product quality and consumer satisfaction, reflecting the industry's commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Get a glance of this market - Download A PDF Sample Report

Related Reports:

The beverage can market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 5,715.4 million . The growing awareness among consumers regarding sustainability is notably driving the market growth, although factors such as the rising popularity of alternatives may impede the market growth.

is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by . The growing awareness among consumers regarding sustainability is notably driving the market growth, although factors such as the rising popularity of alternatives may impede the market growth. The cups and lids market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.05% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecasted to increase by USD 7,537.32 million . The growth of the global commercial beverage dispenser market is notably driving the market growth, although factors such as lack of quality and high costs of raw materials may impede the market growth.

Table of contents:

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 US

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
Report Shows Increases in Social-Engineering Scams and Stolen Devices as Fraudsters Adapt and Evolve Attack Methods  Including Use of AI  to Target Victims

LONDON and TEL AVIV, Israel, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In a report released today, BioCatch  the global leader in digital-fraud detection and financial-crime prevention powered by behavioral biometric intelligence  published findings showing bad actors targeting the region continue to innovate, bombarding European financial institutions with a medley of bank-impersonation, purchase, romance, investment, and other scams. BioCatch also warns of more attacks employing artificial intelligence (AI) to target victims in their native languages.

"While we're at the dawn of the age of AI-powered fraud," BioCatch Director of Global Fraud Intelligence Tom Peacock said, "this is not a scourge of tomorrow or some distant future. It's happening right now and banks need to protect themselves and their customers. In just the last year, fraudsters have used AI to create hyper-localized and -personalized videos, voice recordings, emails, and text messages to skirt bank defenses and target a broader range of victims."

If there's an outlier in this EMEA Report's findings, it's in the UK, where the voice scams plaguing the rest of the continent fell by 25% from the year before, in a trend that may signal fraudsters are desperately seeking ways around modern fraud-protection controls such as behavioral biometric intelligence. Account-takeover (ATO), meanwhile, started to rise in the UK again in 2023, with its slice of the total fraud pie increasing by 13%. Here, BioCatch saw more patient fraudsters, skirting bank controls by repeatedly logging into their victims' accounts without making any fraudulent transactions, gradually building trust with the financial institution before finally transferring away the money they planned to steal all along.

The UK's also the first country in Europe not only to mandate reimbursement for fraud victims (no matter the scam for which they fell) but also to split reimbursement liability between the sending and receiving banks, leading to a monumental increase in the detection of mule accounts in the country last year.

"If AI represents the next frontier of digital-banking fraud, mule accounts are the timeless tool ubiquitous to every scam since the outset of online banking," BioCatch Regional Vice President Paul Davis said. "If we can identify and shut down these sprawling networks of intermediary accounts, we can make a massive dent in digital fraud and financial crime throughout Europe and around the world."

Other key EMEA Report findings:

Everything Happens on Mobile: 75% of reported fraud cases among BioCatch's European customers took place on mobile devices, up 6% from 2022.

75% of reported cases among BioCatch's European customers took place on mobile devices, up 6% from 2022. More Stolen Devices Used for Fraud : Stolen-device cases reported to BioCatch rose by 43% in the region, with the UK and Spain accounting for the brunt of the increase.

Stolen-device cases reported to BioCatch rose by 43% in the region, with the UK and accounting for the brunt of the increase. Mules Are Everywhere: BioCatch's Mule Account Detection solution identified more than 10,000 suspicious accounts among the company's European customers.

BioCatch's Mule Account Detection solution identified more than 10,000 suspicious accounts among the company's European customers. Regulations Forcing Fraudsters to Pivot: As banks tighten digital security to align with ever-changing regulation aiming to protect fraud victims, bad actors have begun to change their tactics, leading to an explosion in social-engineering scams across the continent.

"We Fight Fraud (WFF) is deeply attuned to the increasing prevalence of scams and the exploitation of AI to deceive individuals and extract their finances," WFF CEO Dr. Nicola Harding said. "According to Ofcom, a staggering 43 million adults in the UK encountered a potential scam online last year, with more than half of these instances involving impersonation scams. WFF partners consistently express concerns about fraudsters using AI to elevate impersonation scams to new levels. That's why we're delighted to collaborate with BioCatch to promote awareness of these contemporary threats throughout April, May, and June, as part of our April Fraud campaign."

Click here to access BioCatch's full 2024 Digital Banking Fraud Trends in EMEA report and learn how to safeguard your financial institution against an ever-expanding array of fraud threats.

Additional links:

About BioCatch:

BioCatch stands at the forefront of digital fraud detection, pioneering behavioral biometric intelligence grounded in advanced cognitive science and machine learning. BioCatch analyzes thousands of user interactions to support a digital banking environment where identity, trust, and ease coexist. Today, more than 30 of the world's largest 100 banks and more than 180 total financial institutions rely on BioCatch Connect to combat fraud, facilitate digital transformation, and grow customer relationships. BioCatch's Client Innovation Board, an industry-led initiative featuring American Express, Barclays, Citi Ventures, HSBC, and National Australia Bank, collaborates to pioneer creative and innovative ways to leverage customer relationships for fraud prevention. With more than a decade of data analysis, 90 registered patents, and unmatched expertise, BioCatch continues to lead innovation to address future challenges. For more information, please visit www.biocatch.com.

Media contact:

Jay Jones

[email protected]

SOURCE BioCatch
The Annual General Meeting of AB Electrolux was held in Stockholm on March 27, 2024.

STOCKHOLM, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholders and others had the opportunity to follow the Annual General Meeting live via Electrolux Group's website. A recording from the Annual General Meeting of the reflections by President and CEO, Jonas Samuelson, on the past year, and the strategy going forward will be available on Electrolux Group's website, www.electroluxgroup.com/agm202 4 .

The Company's Income Statement and Balance Sheet and the Consolidated Income Statement and Balance Sheet for Electrolux Group were adopted. The Board of Directors and the President and CEO were discharged from liability for the fiscal year 2023. In accordance with the Board's proposal, the Annual General Meeting resolved to not distribute any dividend for the fiscal year 2023 and that available funds will be carried forward in the new accounts.

Petra Hedengran, Ulla Litzen, Karin Overbeck, David Porter and Jonas Samuelson were re-elected as Directors of the Board, and Torbjorn Loof, Geert Follens, Daniel Nodhall and Michael Rauterkus were elected as new Directors of the Board, for the period until the end of the Annual General Meeting 2025. Torbjorn Loof was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors.

The Annual General Meeting adopted remuneration to the Board in accordance with the Nomination Committee's proposal and adopted new Remuneration Guidelines for senior executives.

PricewaterhouseCoopers AB was re-elected as auditor for the period until the end of the Annual General Meeting 2025 and fee to the auditor will be paid as incurred.

A new instruction for the Nomination Committee was adopted in accordance with the Nomination Committee's proposal.

The Annual General Meeting authorized the Board of Directors to transfer own shares on account of company acquisitions and to cover costs that may arise as a result of the previously adopted share program 2022. These authorizations are effective during the period until the Annual General Meeting 2025.

The Board's proposal for a performance based, long-term share program for 2024 was approved, including the transfer of own shares to the participants in the share program.

Full details on the proposals adopted by the Annual General Meeting are available at Electrolux Group's website, www.electroluxgroup.com/agm202 4 .

CONTACT:

For more information:

Electrolux Group Press Hotline, +46 8 657 65 07

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Parents, caregivers and children see tangible benefits with $500 monthly guaranteed income

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Mayors for Guaranteed Income, Councillor and former Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui, and a wide-range of project partners welcomed the release of independent data on the Cambridge RISE Guaranteed Income Program, showcasing significant improvements in financial health, higher rates of employment, increased time and space for parentings, and better educational outcomes for children.

The cross-sector pilot, entirely funded by philanthropic dollars, provided a monthly payment of $500 to 130 families for 18 months, beginning in September 2021. Cambridge residents ages 18 and older were eligible to participate in RISE if they had incomes below 80% of the Area Median Income and were single caregivers with at least one child under the age of 18. Researchers randomly selected 130 participants to receive $500 monthly cash payments for 18 months, and they measured participant impact against a randomized control group of 156 similar residents who did not receive payments.

Key findings include:

Higher employment  Researchers found statistically significant differences in full-time employment, with the recipients having increased their employment rate from 36% at baseline to 40% after 12 months, while employment fell amongst the control group from 30% at baseline to 28% one year later. Recipients also had higher rates of part-time and seasonal employment.

 Researchers found statistically significant differences in full-time employment, with the recipients having increased their employment rate from 36% at baseline to 40% after 12 months, while employment fell amongst the control group from 30% at baseline to 28% one year later. Recipients also had higher rates of part-time and seasonal employment. Improved financial health  On average, recipients of the guaranteed income reported higher incomes and lower income volatility and were better able to cover a $400 emergency expense compared to a control group of similar Cambridge residents who did not receive the direct cash.

 On average, recipients of the guaranteed income reported higher incomes and lower income volatility and were better able to cover a emergency expense compared to a control group of similar residents who did not receive the direct cash. Enhanced housing, utility, and food security  By the end of RISE, the treatment group experienced a lower housing cost burden, more stable utility costs, and higher food security compared to the control group.

 By the end of RISE, the treatment group experienced a lower housing cost burden, more stable utility costs, and higher food security compared to the control group. Increased time and space for parenting  Guaranteed income allowed recipients to give more attention and support to their children, who in turn experienced improved educational outcomes compared to similar families without the direct cash.

Councillor Sumbul Siddiqui, who initiated the program as Mayor, said "The findings from the RISE pilot highlight the impact of guaranteed income on the lives of single caregivers in Cambridge. By providing direct cash, we've not only strengthened financial health but also empowered families to thrive. As we move forward with Rise Up, we renew our dedication to building a more resilient and inclusive community."

One participant in the RISE pilot explained the benefit, stating, "This [guaranteed income] it's not just benefiting me, it's benefiting my daughter. So I'm able to show her things and we're able to do things together  and that puts her in a different place growing up. She gets to see these things. I get to show her things and that betters her."

Tina Alu, Executive Director of Cambridge Economic Opportunity Committee (CEOC), said, "This research validates what we have learned from the participants that we see every day at CEOC: guaranteed income has an incredibly positive impact on their financial well-being and quality of life. These kinds of programs need to continue."

The RISE pilot launched in partnership with the Cambridge Community Foundation (CCF), CEOC, and UpTogether, was supported by additional partners who shared the belief in guaranteed income as a means to stabilize families in poverty. The program benefitted from lead support from Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, Harvard University, MIT, CCF and many other donors, and programmatic support from Just a Start, Mass Law Reform Institute, and Cambridge Housing Authority.

"Cambridge RISE was an excellent example of collective action," said Geeta Pradhan, president of the Cambridge Community Foundation. "The deep partnership between the public, philanthropic, and nonprofit sectors combined the individual strengths of each to benefit families at a time of great need. It also paved the way for a powerful program scaled and the opportunity for a pathbreaking learning agenda on how to use trust-based approaches like unconditional cash to help families move from crisis to stability."

In July 2023, the City of Cambridge launched a scaled cash assistance program city-widethe first in the nation available to everyone who qualifiesproviding $500 direct cash for 18 months to approximately 2,000 families experiencing poverty. This second phase, called Rise Up Cambridge, is funded with American Rescue Plan Act funds.

"On the heels of President Biden calling for the return of the expanded Child Tax Credit, we have evidence from Cambridge RISE that guaranteed income tangibly improves the lives of parents and children," said Michael D. Tubbs, founder of Mayors for a Guaranteed Income. "Republicans in red states are rushing to ban guaranteed income precisely because it worksand once people see it for themselves, there's no turning back. Polling data proves that, with the majority of Americans now supporting a federal guaranteed income. Cambridge is a leader and part of a growing body of evidence that guaranteed income can make our families, communities and nation stronger and more resilient."

Cambridge's pilot is affiliated with Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, a coalition of nearly 150 mayors and growing. The research findings from Cambridge build upon similar results from the mayor-led guaranteed income programs in Stockton, CA , Saint Paul, Minnesota , and Paterson, NJ , where researchers found statistically significant gains in employment, financial stability, mental health, and overall well-being.

Read the full report on the Cambridge RISE Guaranteed Income program here .

Founded in June of 2020 by former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs, Mayors for a Guaranteed Income is a coalition of nearly 150 mayors committed to advancing a federal guaranteed income  direct, recurring cash payments to middle and low-income people. Expanding to include city and county legislators in 2023 with Counties for a Guaranteed Income , the network acts as a research and resource hub for municipal pilots around the countrynearly 60 and counting. A new documentary film, It's Basic, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in June 2023, follows recipients and illuminates the life-changing impact of guaranteed income programs on families' economic security and opportunity.

SOURCE Mayors for a Guaranteed Income
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Carbon Steel Tubes Market in Europe size is estimated to grow by USD 6.81 bn from 2024 to 2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.93% during the forecast period. Europe held the largest share of the global market in 2023, and the market in the region is estimated to witness an incremental growth of 100%.

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Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Carbon Steel Tubes Market in Europe 2024-2028

Europe is expected to play a pivotal role in propelling the global carbon steel tubes market in Europe

Geographic Landscape:

The Carbon Steel Tubes market in Europe is expected to remain dominated by Germany due to industrialization, population growth, and expanding end-user industries. Key sectors include automotive applications such as diesel spark plugs, engine block heating, and diesel particulate filters. Construction, infrastructure, and machinery industries drive demand, with sales of homes and construction expenditures contributing significantly. Market expansion is fueled by technology advancements in alloy steel, black steel, carbon steel, iron steel, mild steel, and stainless steel tubing. The oil & gas industry and power plants also utilize high-pressure, corrosive atmosphere tubular products. Urban infrastructure development, including metros, piped gas distribution, and fire safety segments, further boosts demand. Companies like ArcelorMittal and Trion Coatings lead the market, with seamless tubes and ERW pipe adoption in transportation sector, building, and mechanical engineering applications. Maintenance and transportation costs influence market trends, with plastic pipes from polypropylene and polyethylene serving as alternatives. The transportation sector, including commercial passenger vehicles, is a significant consumer.

Market Segmentation

This Carbon Steel Tubes Market in Europe report extensively covers market segmentation by Product (Welded tubes, Seamless tubes) Application (Construction, Oil and gas, Automotive and transportation, Mechanical engineering, Others) Geography (Europe)

Market Segmentation by Product

The Carbon Steel Tubes Market in Europe is thriving due to the versatility of alloy, black, carbon, iron, and mild steel tubing. These tubular products are indispensable in various industries, including construction, oil & gas, and transportation. In harsh environments with high mechanical stress, corrosive atmospheres, and high-pressure applications, carbon steel tubes excel. ArcelorMittal, Tata Steel Europe, and Mannesmann are leading vendors, offering advanced high-strength steel carbon tubes. The oil & gas industry relies on steel tubing for piped gas distribution and offshore platforms. In urban infrastructure, carbon steel tubes are used in building construction, metros, and fire safety segments. Seamless tubes and ERW pipes are adopted in shopping centres, airports, commercial passenger vehicles, petrochemicals, and the nuclear power sector. Environmental conditions, such as water infrastructure, necessitate the use of carbon steel tubes. Maintenance and transportation costs are mitigated by the durability and availability of tubular products. Plastic pipes, like polypropylene and polyethylene, face competition from cost-effective and robust carbon steel tubes. Trion Coatings provide protective coatings for enhanced durability.

Drivers

The Carbon Steel Tubes market in Europe experiences robust growth, driven by the expansion of infrastructure projects and the oil & gas industry. Alloy, black, carbon, iron, and mild steel, as well as stainless steel, are utilized in the production of tubular products. High-pressure and corrosive atmospheres, mechanical stress, and maintenance costs are factors influencing the demand for steel tubing. In the transportation sector, seamless tubes and ERW pipe adoption are prevalent. Urban infrastructure development, including buildings, metros, piped gas distribution, and fire safety segments, utilizes carbon steel tubes. The oil & gas industry, petrochemicals sector, and environmental conditions in water infrastructure and the nuclear power sector further boost demand. Key players in the market include ArcelorMittal and Trion Coatings. Plastic pipes made of polypropylene and polyethylene are alternatives, but carbon steel tubes remain the preferred choice due to their strength and versatility.

Technavio has identified key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market, which will help clients improve their strategies to stay ahead of their competitors. Download Now

Research Analysis

The Carbon Steel Tubes Market in Europe is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for steel pipes in various industries. These industries include Oil, Gas, and Propane, where carbon steel tubes are extensively used for transporting these gases and liquids. In addition, the Anti-corrosion properties of carbon steel tubes make them ideal for use in the Petrochemicals industry, particularly in the production of Wind Turbines, Batteries, Medical Devices, Plastics, Detergents, and Packaging. The Automotive sector also utilizes carbon steel tubes in Tyres, Automotive applications, Diesel Spark Plugs, Engine Block Heating, and Diesel Particulate Filters. The Industrialization of Europe, as evidenced by the construction of Shopping Centres, Airports, and Commercial Passenger Vehicles, further boosts the demand for carbon steel tubes. The market is also driven by the needs of the Environmental conditions, Water Infrastructure, Nuclear Power Sector, and Chemicals & Petrochemicals Sector.

Market Drivers

The Carbon Steel Tubes market in Europe experiences robust growth, driven by the expansion of infrastructure projects and the oil & gas industry. Alloy, black, carbon, iron, and mild steel, as well as stainless steel, are utilized in the production of tubular products. High-pressure and corrosive atmospheres, mechanical stress, and maintenance costs are factors influencing the demand for steel tubing. In the transportation sector, seamless tubes and ERW pipe adoption are prevalent. Urban infrastructure development, including buildings, metros, piped gas distribution, and fire safety segments, utilizes carbon steel tubes. The oil & gas industry, petrochemicals sector, and environmental conditions in water infrastructure and the nuclear power sector further boost demand. Key players in the market include ArcelorMittal and Trion Coatings. Plastic pipes made of polypropylene and polyethylene are alternatives, but carbon steel tubes remain the preferred choice due to their strength and versatility.

Market Overview

The Carbon Steel Tubes market in Europe is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for these products in various sectors. These sectors include Power Generation, Oil and Gas, Petrochemicals, and Process Industries. The market is characterized by a competitive landscape, with key players such as ArcelorMittal, Tubacex, Tenaris, and Vallourec dominating the scene. The use of advanced technologies like Expanded Tube Technology and Seamless Tube Technology is on the rise, contributing to the market's expansion. The market is also influenced by factors such as increasing investment in renewable energy, the growing demand for automotive and construction applications, and the rising trend of energy efficiency. Despite challenges like fluctuating raw material prices and increasing competition, the market is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years.

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Key Topics Covered:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation

7 Customer Landscape

8 Geographic Landscape

9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10 Venodr 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 market trends and provides 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
Care2U Shares this Recognition with Independence Practice Association of New York, Inc. for their Collaborative Approach to Advancing Healthcare at Home

NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Care2U is proud to announce that they have been recognized, along with Independent Practice Association of New York (IPA NY), part of Vytalize Health, with the inaugural Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Innovation in Healthcare Award for their transformative work to improve health outcomes through their new High-Intensity Physician-Led Advanced Care at Home (HIPLACH) program.

Through HIPLACH, the organizations offer Hospital-Level care in the home, that would ordinarily require in-patient hospitalization. HIPLACH services may include physician, advanced practice provider, and RN visits; home health aides; remote patient monitoring; medication administration; respiratory care; diagnostic testing (such as X-ray, ultrasound, laboratory testing, or EKG); and physical, occupational and/or speech therapy, among other services. The program focuses on improving the quality of care, enhancing patient experience, and lowering overall costs.

"We are proud to honor these leaders with the first Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Innovation in Healthcare Award for their pioneering efforts to provide the highest quality care for our members," said Daniel Kassan, MD, director of medical operations for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in New York. "IPA NY and Care2U have been the ideal partners to help us achieve our mission of improving the health of New Yorkers. We are excited about the potential of the HIPLACH program to revolutionize the way we deliver personalized, high-tech value-based medical care in the home."

"The HIPLACH program provides patients freedom of choice," said Taylor Hamzy, chief strategy officer at Care2U. "This joint effort provides a lower cost and high-quality alternative to traditional hospital care. Our program advances value-based care by creating more sustainable reimbursement pathways built on quality and risk outcomes."

"We, at the IPA of New York, are dedicated to advancing the healthcare model and finding innovative solutions to address the exorbitant costs plaguing our healthcare system," said Michael Ruiz de Somocurcio, IPA NY President. "Recognizing the pressing need to tackle the high variation in cost related to where care is delivered, we have made it our priority to develop this member-centric, cost-effective approach."

About Care2U

Care2U delivers ED and hospital-level care to the home, providing patients with more freedom of choice in their healthcare options, at a fraction of the cost of the traditional hospital setting. Care2U was founded to address the quality, cost, access, and infection issues that arise with care in the hospital setting. By providing high-quality acute care in the home, Care2U can improve patient outcomes, lower total cost, and improve the overall satisfaction of those seeking treatment. To learn more about Care2U, visit care2u.com.

About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in New York

Serving New Yorkers for 90 years, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem) is on a mission to materially and measurably improve the health of New Yorkers. Anthem is the largest health insurer in New York, supporting more than 4 million members and more than 38,000 business, union, and small employers in New York. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem HealthChoice Assurance Inc., and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield HMO is the trade name of Anthem HealthChoice HMO Inc., independent licensees of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, serving residents and businesses in the 28 eastern and southeastern counties of New York state. Additional information about Anthem is available at www.anthem.com.

About Vytalize Health

Vytalize Health is a risk-bearing provider enablement platform addressing the healthcare industry's biggest challenges with its cutting-edge value-based care delivery system. Vytalize partners with more than 5,000 leading providers to improve the quality of care through evidence-based medicine and a patient experience rooted in kindness. By delivering the right data at the right time in the workflow to physicians and their staff, Vytalize makes its partners more efficient and effective, allowing them to focus on proactive, personalized medicine to improve the value of care and lower costs. Learn more at www.vytalizehealth.com.

SOURCE Care2U
Christian Lampone is set to introduce Central Bark's unique approach to whole dog care and enrichment in Doylestown, PA and across Northern Philadelphia suburbs

DOYLESTOWN, Pa., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Central Bark, the premier whole dog care franchise and industry pioneer, is proud to announce the signing of its largest multi-unit franchise agreement to date in Doylestown, PA, and the surrounding North Philadelphia suburbs.

Leading Central Bark's growth in North Philadelphia is Christian Lampone, who just executed the multi-unit development agreement. For Lampone, the journey into franchising was more than just a career move  it was a realization of a lifelong dream fueled by a love for dogs and a desire to provide a much-needed service to his community.

Central Bark Signs Largest Multi-Unit Franchise Deal to Date for 5 New Locations Across North Philadelphia and Suburbs Post this

"I have always wanted my own business; I always knew I wanted to own something," he said. "This opportunity with Central Bark is a combination of my passion and investment strategy and my plans for the future. I have always loved dogs and wanted to work with them, and there is a huge need for it right now."

With pet ownership soaring during the pandemic, Lampone recognized an untapped market demand for quality dog day care and secure overnight stays for pets, especially as their owners returned to the workplace. Lampone, who has a personal affinity for large breed dogs and a commitment to animal welfare, saw Central Bark as more than just a lucrative business opportunity; for him, it's also a platform to advocate for rescue dogs and provide them with nurturing environments where they can thrive. He looks forward to bringing five locations to Doylestown and the North Philadelphia suburbs in the coming years, with the first opening anticipated before the end of 2024.

Lampone is currently a User Experience Design Team Lead for a pharmaceutical marketing agency and feels his previous career experience will serve him well in business ownership, as will his extensive experience in owning and looking after dogs. However, he also looks forward to the support provided by the corporate team for his first foray into business ownership.

"I've had dogs for 30 years now and I'm very familiar with training them and caring for them," said Lampone. "But, running a whole dog care business is something completely different and to have a franchise like Central Bark behind me with the level of support and training they provide, well, that is immeasurable."

For more than 20 years, Central Bark has drawn in dogs and their owners across the country to experience its Whole Dog Care, which combines Central Bark's industry-leading dog day care expertise with the latest in canine behavioral science. Enrichment Care provides a healthy and balanced blend of exercise, social group play, learning, rest, and "TLC" to help dogs be healthy, happy, calm, and well-rounded members of the family. Furthermore, Central Bark also offers dog boarding, baths, grooming, a boutique retail market, training, and more.

"Christian is an amazing addition to our rapidly growing Central Bark franchise family," said Tim Weiderhoft, Ed.D., CFE, chief development officer for Central Bark. "With one new Central Bark at a time, we are changing the dog care landscape across the country. We are different, special, and better for a reason and that is resonating with new franchisees and our customers alike. And we could not be happier that Christian has decided to join Central Bark and bring our unique approach to Doylestown and the North Philadelphia suburbs. Given his incredible background and work ethic, we know he will be extremely successful."

Central Bark typically features approximately 6,000  7,000 square feet of indoor space plus more than 2,000 square-feet of outdoor play area. Activities include small flexible playgroups, group skills work, rest periods, and personalized one-on-one enrichment sessions. Enrichment add-ons give pups the extra attention they love and the freedom to use their senses, safely exploring with their instincts as they engage with interactive toys, puzzles, and games.

About Central Bark:

The Central Bark franchise system was founded in 2003 and now operates under the name Barkley Ventures Franchising, LLC. For more than 20 years, the brand has grown to nearly 40 locations across more than a dozen states. The company has hosted over two million dog visits. Central Bark participates in VetFran, the International Franchise Association's (IFA) veteran program, and offers a franchise fee discount to qualifying veterans. Central Bark is also an IFA MinorityFran participant. For more information about franchising with Central Bark, visit centralbarkfranchising.com or call 866-799-2275.

SOURCE Central Bark
Proactive cloud cost efficiency leader kicks off 2024 poised for further growth as the trusted partner for the world's most innovative cloud-driven companies

BOSTON, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CloudZero had triple-digit revenue growth in 2023, released market-leading product enhancements, bolstered its leadership team, and raised $41 million in Series B funding. The company moves into 2024 poised for continued growth as the market leader in next-generation cloud cost optimization.

Among CloudZero's 2023 highlights:

Grew annual recurring revenue by triple digits

Significantly grew the customer base, adding some of the world's most innovative cloud-driven companies like Braze, Cloudera, and Duolingo while expanding across key verticals including financial, marketing, educational, and healthcare technology, data and analytics, and security

Helped customers realize hundreds of millions of dollars in savings, with Upstart alone reducing cloud costs by $20 million

Delivered meaningful innovation through numerous platform enhancements, including the introduction of the Analytics module, many out-of-the-box integrations, and automated savings insights, all aimed at unlocking the strategic value customers can derive from their cloud cost data

Joined the FinOps Foundation as a Premier Member, joining companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft in shaping and spreading FinOps principles and capabilities

Won the 2023 New England Venture Capital Association NEVY Award for Hottest Startup

Raised a total of $41 million in Series B funding, led by Innovius Capital and Threshold Ventures with continued support from existing investors Matrix Partners, Underscore VC, and G20 Ventures

Additionally, in 2023, CloudZero augmented its go-to-market, product, and customer success teams with key leadership hires:

Michelle Dufty, former head of marketing at Flashpoint and Sonatype, joined as chief marketing officer

Robbie Th'ng, former product leader at HashiCorp, joined as senior vice president of product management

Kunal Rao , former customer success leader at Lacework and CloudHealth, joined as vice president of customer success

, former customer success leader at Lacework and CloudHealth, joined as vice president of customer success Dan Carducci, former finance leader at CarGurus and Pivotal Software, joined as vice president of finance

Phil Pergola, CEO of CloudZero, said, "It was an exceptional year. Few SaaS companies were hitting their numbers last year, much less exceeding revenue and growth targets. Our focus on taking an engineering-led approach to reducing cloud costs and improving unit economics continues to resonate in the market. It's ground zero for cloud efficiency, and we plan to lead the charge as organizations balance innovation and profitability in the years to come. Consumption of cloud-based technologies continues to grow at a rapid pace and only gets more complex as companies adopt cloud-native databases, Kubernetes, and AI. It's an honor to lead such a vibrant team in a space so ripe for innovation."

About CloudZero

CloudZero is the leader in proactive cloud cost efficiency. We enable engineers to build cost-efficient software without slowing down innovation. CloudZero's next-generation cloud cost optimization platform automates the collection, allocation, and analysis of cloud costs to uncover savings opportunities and improve unit economics. We are the only platform that enables companies to understand 100% of their operational cloud spend and take an engineering-led approach to optimizing that spend. CloudZero is used by industry leaders worldwide, such as Braze, Demandbase, Duolingo, New Relic, and Rapid7. Visit cloudzero.com to get started today.

SOURCE CloudZero
MONTREAL, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Congruence Therapeutics, a computationally-driven biotechnology company building a unique pipeline of transformative small molecule correctors rationally designed to rescue aberrant protein function, announced today that it will participate in the following investor conferences:

23 rd Annual Needham Virtual Healthcare Conference, being held in a virtual format April 8-11, 2024 . Clarissa Desjardins , Ph.D., CEO of Congruence, will present a company overview on Tuesday, April 9 th at 9:30 am ET . Company management will also participate in one-on-one meetings with investors at this conference.

Annual Needham Virtual Healthcare Conference, being held in a virtual format . , Ph.D., CEO of Congruence, will present a company overview on at . Company management will also participate in one-on-one meetings with investors at this conference. 2024 Bloom Burton & Co. Healthcare Investor Conference, being held April 16-17, 2024 , in Toronto, Ontario . Dr. Desjardins will present a company overview on Tuesday, April 16 at 1:30 pm ET . Company management will also participate in one-on-one meetings with investors at this conference.

About Congruence Therapeutics

Congruence is a computationally-driven biotechnology company building a unique pipeline of transformative small molecule correctors rationally designed to rescue aberrant protein function. Our proprietary scalable platform, Revenir, captures the biophysical features of proteins across their conformational ensembles, in order to identify novel allosteric and cryptic pockets which are virtually screened to generate novel chemical matter.

For more information, please visit www.congruencetx.com .

Company Contact

Charles Grubsztajn

Chief Operating Officer

[email protected]

Media Contact

Amy Conrad

Juniper Point

[email protected]

858-366-3243

SOURCE Congruence Therapeutics
SAN DIEGOASGmax exclusive Carter Woods stars in the latest installment of Dorm Life, available now from Next Door Twink.

The scene, Dorm Life: The R.A.," follows the story of Dallas Preston as he embarks on his college journey, filled with anticipation and curiosity about what life in the dorms holds for him. When he meets Woods, his resident assistant, Preston quickly discovers that Woods is there to offer more than just guidance on campus life.



Filming this scene was truly mouth-watering, Woods said. Dallas was amazing to shoot with, and the scene really brought me back to my college dayswhich is always exciting to reminisce on! So excited for all of you to see it.

Carter Woods and Dallas Preston have a chemistry that is off the charts! said director Conrad Parker. I wrote and directed this raw glimpse into college life, and let me tell you, watching them was like witnessing a genuine spark in dorm relationships.

ASGmax chief creative officer Jeremy Babcock enthused, Theres so much heart in this series from Conrad Parker. Theres such touching authenticity to all the scenes in this series that really comes from the perfect combination of Parkers writing and directing coming together beautifully."

Dorm Life: The R.A. is also now streaming at ASGmax.com.

Woods also stars in Next Door Films' Betting It All, directed by Jeremy Babcock, and co-starring ASGmax exclusive Blain OConnor. The scene is set for release on April 6.

For more updates, follow Woods, Preston, Parker, and Babcock on X/Twitter, @thecarterwoods, @DallasxPreston, @xxxconrad, and @jerbabcock.

For more information visit ASGmax.com or follow the brand on X/Twitter @ASGmaxOfficial.

Pictured: Carter Woods, left, and Dallas Preston.
Company continues to invest in EV battery health innovations for automotive dealers and fleets.

ATLANTA, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cox Automotive is rolling out the used car industry's only solution that will measure the EV battery health for each specific VIN across Manheim. In addition, the company is expanding LotVision's capabilities of reporting battery health for each unique vehicle. Both enhancements give wholesale buyers and sellers the information they need to make more informed and confident decisions.

Cox Automotive's VIN-specific solution, developed by its EV Battery Solutions team, uses Manheim's LotVision technology to quickly assess the battery in each unique vehicle and automatically transmit in-depth battery health information to condition reports (CRs) and vehicle detail pages (VDPs) on Manheim.com. Created in partnership with Cox2M, the commercial IoT business line within Cox Communications, LotVision is a wireless tracking device placed in a vehicle that helps dealers, transporters and team members accurately locate vehicles on Manheim lots to within 10 feet.

Cox Automotive's decade-long history of assessing EV battery state of health has shown that while most used EV batteries are relatively healthy, the outliers tend to be significantly degraded, highlighting the importance of measuring each individual vehicle.

"EV battery health scores that are based on make/model averages are just thataverage," said Steve Rowley, president of Cox Automotive. "That's why we continue to invest in innovations that help our clients make important decisions affecting their businesses."

Importance of VIN-Specific Battery Health Measurement for Automotive Dealers, Fleets

Cox Automotive firmly believes that VIN-specific battery state of health will be the new standard in the industrya perspective formed by its deep knowledge and expertise in the automotive industry. With this VIN-specific solution, Cox Automotive is leading the industry in EV battery health and demonstrating its commitment to protecting clients from the inevitable outliers, ultimately fueling a more transparent and confident buying and selling experience.

"At Manheim, we have more experience than anyone in driving confidence in the wholesale marketplaceand one thing we know for sure is that nobody likes surprises," said Grace Huang, president of Cox Automotive Inventory Solutions. "With this innovative new use of LotVision, we're giving clients exactly what they need: the most detailed information possible on each individual EV so they can make informed buying and selling decisions. Ultimately, transparency drives confidence in the wholesale marketplace, and that's why we have beenand will continue to becommitted to giving our clients VIN-specific battery health information."

How it Works:

To quickly measure battery health on each vehicle, Manheim is leveraging its innovative LotVision deviceswhich are already in use across all 76 locations in the U.S. First used for geolocating vehicles on its lots, LotVision devices are installed in all vehicles with an OBD II port at check-in.

Now, with a simple firmware update, these devices can be used to capture EV battery health information in minutesand they can transmit that information automatically to Manheim CRs and VDPs, where battery health information will be prominently displayed when the listing goes live on Manheim.com. Information to be displayed will include a battery health score (0-100%) that represents the remaining battery capacity captured directly from the vehicle, alongside detailed vehicle-specific information that aims to empower buyers in making informed decisions like warranty information, battery chemistry, charging cable presence and more.

As a bonus, since the LotVision devices remain installed while a vehicle is on a Manheim lot, they will also report on each vehicle's current state of charge.

Manheim has been preparing for the influx of EVs into the wholesale marketplace. Since 2019, Manheim has invested more than $200 million in EV infrastructure and process improvements. Manheim now offers sellers more than 800 EV chargers, safe storage and access to 850+ trained technicians who can safely handle, service and dispose of EV batteries. In 2023, approximately 48,000 EVs were sold in the Manheim Marketplace, a 58% increase year-over-year. The company expects that number to double in 2024 and continue increasing in the coming years. In April, clients will begin seeing the expanded battery health information on Manheim CRs and VDPs across most makes and models.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive is the world's largest automotive services and technology provider. Fueled by the largest breadth of first-party data fed by 2.3 billion online interactions a year, Cox Automotive tailors leading solutions for car shoppers, auto manufacturers, dealers, lenders and fleets. The company has 29,000+ employees on five continents and a portfolio of industry-leading brands that include Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim, vAuto, Dealertrack, NextGear Capital, CentralDispatch and FleetNet America. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with $22 billion in annual revenue. Visit coxautoinc.com or connect via @CoxAutomotive on X, CoxAutoInc on Facebook or Cox-Automotive-Inc on LinkedIn.

SOURCE Cox Automotive
Natural gas plants provide necessary firming capacity to diversified portfolio to maintain reliability and affordability for customers.

SAN ANTONIO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, CPS Energy and Talen Energy Corporation ("Talen") (OTCQX: TLNE) announced an agreement for CPS Energy to acquire Talen's approximately 1,710-megawatt ("MW") generation portfolio located in the South Zone of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas ("ERCOT") market for $785 million subject to customary net working capital adjustments at closing. These assets include natural gas plants in Corpus Christi and Laredo. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2024.

Under the terms of the agreement, which is subject to customary closing conditions, CPS Energy will acquire all assets associated with Talen's 897 MW Barney Davis and 635 MW Nueces Bay natural gas-fired generation facilities, both located in Corpus Christi, Tex., as well as its 178 MW natural gas-fired generation facility in Laredo, Tex.

This action supports CPS Energy's generation plan, approved in 2023 by its Board of Trustees. It secures an additional 1,710 MWs of power for the greater San Antonio community and will be available as soon as this summer. The addition of these units aligns with the generation plan, which includes the retirement of older units and the addition of a blend of gas, solar, wind, and energy storage.

"The purchase of these assets furthers CPS Energy's commitment to deliver reliable and affordable energy supply to one of the nation's fastest growing communities, while also balancing our commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 2030," said Rudy D. Garza, President & CEO of CPS Energy. "The investments we are making to purchase and improve the performance of these plants provide cost benefits when compared to building new assets, which means reliability now at a lower price for our community. In addition to these facilities, as our community continues to grow, we are also adding low and zero-carbon resources as well as energy storage to enable that additional growth."

Talen President and Chief Executive Officer Mac McFarland said, "This transaction demonstrates our continued commitment to unlocking significant value for Talen, while also taking care of our people. We are happy that these assets will assist CPS Energy in its long-term strategy to serve its growing community with reliable and cost-effective power generation."

CPS Energy's Vision 2027 plan includes its generation plan that contemplates the retirement of 2,249 MW of older and inefficient dispatchable generation capacity before 2030. CPS Energy has added 730 MW of solar energy and 50 MW of energy storage to date as part of its generation plan, with an additional 500 MW energy storage RFP in the works. With the addition of these facilities, environmental emissions will stay on track to meet the City of San Antonio's Climate Action and Adaptation Plan emissions reduction commitment by 2030. In addition, it provides CPS Energy the flexibility to add more renewable energy and storage with this benefit of firming capacity (power that is available as needed) in place.

The plants in Corpus Christi and Laredo are expected to be operational for the next 25 years. There are a combined total of approximately 65 operations employees at these sites, and they will have an opportunity to become CPS Energy employees at the closing of the acquisition.

J.P. Morgan is acting as exclusive financial advisor and Dykema Gossett PLLC is acting as legal advisor to CPS Energy with respect to the Transaction. RBC Capital Markets, LLC is serving as exclusive financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal advisor for Talen.

About CPS Energy

Established in 1860, CPS Energy is the nation's largest public power, natural gas, and electric company, providing safe, reliable, and competitively priced service to more than 930,114 electric and 381,379 natural gas customers in San Antonio and portions of seven adjoining counties. Our customers' combined energy bills rank among the lowest of the nation's 20 largest cities  while generating $9 billion in revenue for the City of San Antonio for 80 years. As a trusted and strong community partner, we continuously focus on job creation, economic development, and educational investment. We are powered by our skilled workforce, whose commitment to the community is demonstrated through our employees' volunteerism in giving back to our city and programs aimed at bringing value to our customers. CPS Energy is among the top public power wind energy buyers in the nation and San Antonio is number one in Texas for solar generation.

CPS Energy

Melissa C. Sorola

Vice President, Corporate Communications & Marketing

[email protected]

About Talen

Talen owns and operates approximately 12.4 gigawatts of power infrastructure in the United States. We produce and sell electricity, capacity, and ancillary services into wholesale U.S. power markets, including PJM, ERCOT and WECC, with our generation fleet principally located in the Mid-Atlantic, Texas and Montana. While the majority of our power is already generated at our zero-carbon, low-cost Susquehanna nuclear facility and other lower-carbon gas-fired facilities, we are reducing the carbon profile of our fleet through conversions and retirements of our wholly owned coal facilities. Talen is headquartered in Houston, Texas. For more information visit www.talenenergy.com.

Talen trades on the OTCQX Best Market under the ticker "TLNE." OTCQX companies meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, demonstrate compliance with U.S. securities laws, and have a professional third-party sponsor introduction. Investors can find current financial disclosures and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the Company on www.otcmarkets.com/stock/TLNE/overview.

Additional Information

For additional information and updates about Talen, please visit our Investor Relations webpage at talenenergy.investorroom.com, or contact:

Investor Relations:

Ellen Liu

Senior Director, Investor Relations

[email protected]

Media:

Taryne Williams

Director, Corporate Communications

[email protected]

Forward Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this communication, or incorporated by reference into this communication, are forward-looking statements. Throughout this communication, we have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by using words such as "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecasts," "goal," "intend," "may," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "seek," "should," "will," or other forms of these words or similar words or expressions or the negative thereof, although not all forward-looking statements contain these terms. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions concerning, among other things capital expenditures, earnings, litigation, regulatory matters, hedging, liquidity and capital resources and accounting matters. Forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our future business, financial condition, results of operations or performance to differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement contained in this communication. All of our forward-looking statements include assumptions underlying or relating to such statements that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations, and are subject to numerous factors that present considerable risks and uncertainties.

SOURCE Talen Energy Corporation
ARLINGTON, Va., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- For the ninth consecutive year, Forbes has named Eagle Hill Consulting as one of America's Best Management Consulting Firms. The 2024 rankings garnered Eagle Hill star ratings in the categories of Leadership Advisory, Operations, and Organization.

Eagle Hill Consulting also has been recognized as a top company by Vault, The Washington Post and The Washington Business Journal among others.

"As employers continue to face highly complex workforce challenges, they turn to Eagle Hill for out-of-the-box solutions," said Melissa Jezior, president and chief executive officer of Eagle Hill Consulting. "Labor shortages, workforce burnout, and hybrid work battles are just a few of the problems plaguing employers. Our clients know Eagle Hill delivers trusted advice and implements strategies that elevate organizational performance."

"At the same time, Eagle Hill employees know we are committed to a culture that delivers a high-quality experience for its own workforce. We earned this Forbes recognition because our clients reap the benefits of Eagle Hill consultants who are smart, supported, and empowered to deliver innovative thinking," Jezior explained.

Eagle Hill is known for its unconventional approach to driving organizational effectiveness in the areas of strategy and performance, talent, and change. Eagle Hill helps clients innovate around today's challenges while building the foundation for long-term, sustainable success.

America's Best Management Consulting Firms 2024 is based on two surveys conducted by market research company Statista, a peer-to-peer survey of more than 1,100 partners and executives at management consulting firms, and a survey of more than 1,200 clients who had worked with management consulting firms in the past four years. All responses were combined into a scoring model that also included last year's results to assess the firms' performance over time. Recommendations from the management consultants were weighted more heavily than those from clients, and this year's recommendations were given more weight than last year's. The consulting firms with the most recommendations in each category were given star ratings, and the final list highlights 190 companies.

Eagle Hill Consulting LLC is a woman-owned business that provides unconventional management consulting services in the areas of Strategy & Performance, Talent, and Change. The company's expertise in delivering innovative solutions to unique challenges spans across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. A leading authority on employee sentiment, Eagle Hill is headquartered in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, with employees across the U.S. and offices in Boston and Seattle. More information is available at www.eaglehillconsulting.com.

SOURCE Eagle Hill Consulting LLC
40% of U.S. respondents are willing to sacrifice returns in order to create a positive impact. Post this

U.S. investors more willing than ever to make rational and balanced sacrifices

40% of U.S. respondents are willing to sacrifice returns in order to create a positive impact, up 4% from the previous survey and the highest share among U.S. respondents since the question was first asked in the 2020 survey. This is a larger share of respondents who are willing to sacrifice returns than in the UK (33%), Germany (31%) and Australia (29%). Only Singapore (47%) has a larger share of respondents who are willing to sacrifice returns, although that number has declined 7% since last year. Overall, 67% of interested investors would sacrifice up to 10% of returns to create a positive impact, with 6-10% the most common range. A willingness to sacrifice 16% or more was by far the smallest share of respondents who knew how much they would forgo for a positive impact on society.

"In its earliest forms, impact investing often accepted lower expected returns to have a bigger impact, but our impact investment strategies emphasize sustainability-related attributes or outcomes in addition to delivering a financial return. Identifying impact-related factors that could affect a company's ability to stay competitive over the long term has the potential to add to returns," said Sarah Bratton Hughes, senior vice president and head of sustainable investing for American Century Investments. "A willingness to give up as much as 10% of an expected return shows that impact investors expect to earn competitive returns and are making rational choices to realize an impact emphasis in addition to a financial return."

Appeal of impact investing has declined in every country since last survey

Since the previous survey, the appeal of impact investing has declined in Australia (-6%), Singapore (-5%), the UK (-5%), Germany (-4%) and the U.S. (-1%). This decline is also seen across generations, where appeal among Baby Boomers (-8%) has seen the greatest decline, followed by Gen Z (-7%), Gen X (-5%) and Millennials (-1%).

"In the seven years of impact investing studies we've done, it's unique to see such uniform results across nations and ages in a single question, like we see this year with the decline of the appeal of impact investing. Even though the decline holds for all groups, the reasons are more varied," said Bratton Hughes.

Economy and geopolitics among reasons for the decline in appeal

Market conditions have a negative impact on the willingness to allocate to impact investing for roughly 3 in 10 investors in each of the five countries, although in Singapore, respondents were more likely to say market conditions positively impacted their willingness to make these investments. In the U.S., greenwashing and the sustainability backlash both influenced interest in impact investing at higher levels than the prior year, but not for respondents in the other countries.

Health care surpasses the environment to become the top cause overall

For the first time since 2020, health care is the top concern overall. The environment fell to second place after holding a lead over health care in 2020 (4%), 2021 (5%) and 2022 (1%).

As an asset manager with an impact on global health, American Century Investments has a unique perspective on sustainable investing. More than 40% of American Century dividends go to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, a world-class biomedical research organization with an equity stake in American Century. American Century Investments has generated more than $2 billion in dividends for the Stowers Institute since 2000.

"Through our unique relationship with the Stowers Institute, we generate an impact on global health while helping clients achieve financial success. As a foundational research organization, the Stowers Institute takes a long-term view and commitment to research and innovation, which has helped to shape our culture and naturally aligns with integrating sustainability into our investment practices to help us deliver better long-term, risk-adjusted returns for our clients," said Bratton Hughes.

Survey methodology

The 2023 survey was conducted with representative samples of adults 18 years of age and older. There were 1,007 participants in the U.S. survey, 1,004 in the U.K. survey, 1,003 in Germany, 1,005 in Australia and 1,002 in Singapore. The study was fielded using Big Village's Online CARAVAN Omnibus Survey, with the results weighted by age, sex, geographic region, race and education to ensure reliable and accurate representations of the adult populations in each country. For the purposes of this survey, millennials were defined as those aged 25 to 40, Gen Xers were defined as those aged 41 to 56, and baby boomers were defined as those aged 57 to 75.

About American Century Investments

American Century Investments is a leading global asset manager focused on delivering investment results and building long-term client relationships while supporting breakthrough medical research. Founded in 1958, American Century Investments' 1,400 employees serve financial professionals, institutions, corporations and individual investors from offices in Kansas City, Missouri; New York; Los Angeles; Santa Clara, California; Portland, Oregon; London; Frankfurt, Germany; Hong Kong; and Sydney. Jonathan S. Thomas is president and chief executive officer, and Victor Zhang serves as chief investment officer. Delivering investment results to clients enables American Century Investments to distribute over 40% of its dividends to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, a 500-person, nonprofit basic biomedical research organization. The Institute owns more than 40% of American Century Investments and has received dividend payments of more than $2 billion since 2000. For more information about American Century Investments, visit www.americancentury.com .

*Assets under supervision as of 3/8/2024.

2024 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved

Contact: Justin Emily Wills

(816) 340-4062

SOURCE American Century Investments
Takeda's 'In Their Shoes' initiative illuminates the daily struggles of IBD patients in the UAE, fostering empathy and understanding among participants.

DUBAI, UAE, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Takeda, the patient-centric biopharmaceutical company, brought its global 'In Their Shoes' program to the UAE. The initiative, focused on raising awareness of the difficult symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), entailed an immersive 24-hour simulation that generated a deeper understanding of how the disease affects the daily lives of patients.

It is estimated that more than 10 million people worldwide live with IBD.1

Traditionally, IBD has been regarded as a disease of the Western world; however, studies over the last two decades have shown a rapidly increasing incidence in newly industrialised countries in the Middle East, Asia, and South America2. It is estimated that 2-4% of the UAE population is affected with one of the two IBD subtypes, Crohn's disease, and Ulcerative Colitis3

IBD is a lifelong condition characterized by chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract3. While inflammation is the body's natural reaction to irritation or injury, in patients with IBD, it is thought that the body's own immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless food or bacteria within the gut as 'foreign' and attacks it3. This mistake by the immune system leads to an upset in the normal function of the gut and causes symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhoea. IBD can lead to debilitating effects on patients and society2.

The 'In Their Shoes' initiative offers participants (Healthcare Professionals) a profound understanding of IBD throughout a 24-hour simulation, that took place on September 7th, 2023, and ended the next day. Using a mobile app and an 'IBD kit,' participants engaged in common struggles, gaining insights into the disease's physical and emotional challenges. Through role-play and interactions with actors, they gain valuable perspective on how IBD affects patients' both professional and personal life.

Although the simulation couldn't fully replicate the experience, it is meant to foster empathy for individuals living with IBD. The initiative falls in line with Takeda's people-first focus, that not only encompasses patients, but caregivers, medical professionals, employees, and the wider communities in which they operate.

1- https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/WorldIBDDay . Last accessed Nov 2023

2- Ng SC, Shi HY, Hamidi N, et al. Worldwide incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease in the 21st century: a systematic review of population-based studies. Lancet 2017;390:276978

3- https://ibduae.ae/about-ibd/. Last accessed Nov. 2023

Of the esteemed participants was Sheikha Dr Alia Humaid AlQassimi, Aesthetic Gynaecologist at Al Garhoud Private Hospital, and Social Development Expert at the Community Development Authority, who commented on her experience in the simulation, "The most unexpected realization about the challenges that IBD patients face was the around-the-clock inconvenience of needing a restroom, as a result of the inconsistent bowel movements known to the disease. With the actors present as part of the simulation, I was able to feel the burden of being someone who is in constant need of special care. In addition to that, I was shocked to learn that the only solution to alleviate the symptoms in extreme cases is to undergo a colostomy, an operation that creates an opening for the colon through the abdomen."

Dr AlQassimi further commented on the experience's influence on her professional approach as a healthcare provider saying, "The experience was a reminder that being patient-centred requires the utmost empathy and consideration for my patients. It is crucial to believe a patient when they express pain or discomfort, a point that's been made so much clearer now that I've taken part in this program. In the future, I hope to see initiatives like this being adopted across the country and wider region to ensure that awareness is raised for this challenging disease. This includes medical schools infusing a volunteering prerequisite for students as part of the curriculum, awareness programs designed to teach children about IBD and other conditions from a young age, and the formation of support groups for those suffering from IBD and their loved ones. The key here is to ensure the optimal environment that supports the highest possible quality of life for IBD patients."

Dr. Maryam Al Khatry, founder of the Emirates Inflammatory Bowel Disease Society, confirms her full support for this pioneering initiative. She stressed that highlighting the challenges of this disease goes beyond the issue of awareness, as it is a call to everyone to consider those suffering from the symptoms of the disease and help them overcome its impact on their daily lives and work. As medical teams and individuals in this community, we are committed to promoting the spirit of unlimited support with the goal of further integrating those affected into our community. Through the Emirates Inflammatory Bowel Disease Society, we confirm our support for this vital initiative, and we stand by all initiatives that seek to improve the quality of life and enhance the productivity of individuals in our society.

Ahmed Fayed, General Manager for Gulf countries & Lebanon, at Takeda, said, "At Takeda, our commitment to addressing life-limiting gastrointestinal diseases is unwavering. Alongside our continuous work on innovative treatments within our gastroenterology portfolio, we recognize the significant impact programs like 'In Their Shoes' can have on improving patients' lives. We take pride in cultivating advocates, both within our organization and externally, who genuinely empathize with the disease, exemplifying Takeda's dedication to a patient-first approach."

The 'In Their Shoes' initiative was first launched in the U.S. with a 24-hour simulation during which dozens of Takeda employees learned about the condition in the most effective and profound way: by "living with it." Following the success of the launch at our U.S. headquarters, Takeda extended the reach of "In Their Shoes" by organizing more simulations across the globe, with the aim of spreading awareness and knowledge of IBD's negative effects on its sufferers' daily lives.

About Takeda Pharmaceuticals

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE: 4502) (NYSE: TAK) is a global, values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical leader headquartered in Japan, committed to bringing Better Health and a Brighter Future to patients by translating science into highly innovative medicines. Takeda focuses its R&D efforts on four therapeutic areas: Oncology, Rare Diseases, Neuroscience, and Gastroenterology (GI). We also make targeted R&D investments in Plasma-Derived Therapies and Vaccines. We are focusing on developing highly innovative medicines that contribute to making a difference in people's lives by advancing the frontier of new treatment options and leveraging our enhanced collaborative R&D engine and capabilities to create a robust, modality- diverse pipeline. Our employees are committed to improving quality of life for patients and to working with our partners in health care in approximately 80 countries. For more information, visit https://www.takeda.com .

DISCLAIMER: THIS ARTICLE DOESN'T PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE This initiative partnered with healthcare Professionals only. All information, including but not limited to text, names and comments contained in this article are for informational purpose only and not intended to be substitute of professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment .For more information ,always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider .

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2360606/4589733/Takeda_logo.jpg

SOURCE Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Santa Cruz offers redesigned exterior and interior surfaces along with new infotainment and additional advanced driver assistance systems. The 2025 Santa Cruz, designed in California, arrives at Hyundai dealerships this summer.

"The development goal for freshening Santa Cruz was to give it an even bolder, stronger design. We also wanted Santa Cruz to be more capable, and the available XRT trim delivers with all-terrain tires, front tow hooks and improved off-road capability. Customers are going to appreciate all the new design details and enhancements inside and out. Santa Cruz is a true sport adventure vehicle," said Munoz.

"More vertical lines and redesigned headlamps bookend a menacing new grille incorporating larger chambers. These changes give the 2025 Santa Cruz a more planted, robust stance," said Arnold. "On the Santa Cruz XRT, we've augmented the model's off-road capability by increasing the approach angle, adding all-terrain tires and unique wrench-inspired alloy wheels."

2025 Santa Cruz New Enhancements and Available Features

XRT Trim (Specific Changes)

New XRT-exclusive front and rear bumper fascia designs

New XRT-exclusive front grille

Front tow hooks

Wrench-inspired XRT-specific 18-inch wheels

245 / 60 R 18 all-terrain tires

Increased approach angle

XRT trim adds Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor i

XRT logo debossing on front upper seatbacks

Exterior Changes

New front fascia

New grille

New wheel designs

New daytime running lights

Interior Changes

In keeping with the more capable exterior, the upgraded Santa Cruz interior provides a high-tech image combined with increased functionality. The new panoramic curved display houses an optional 12.3-inch driver information cluster and available 12.3-inch audio-video navigation (AVN) system for an immersive digital experience. In addition, the center stack controls are more ergonomic, with additional physical switchgear for frequently used audio and HVAC functions. The strong horizontal and vertical shapes of the new instrument panel are consistent with Santa Cruz's refreshed exterior changes while offering additional storage including a new shelf above the glovebox.

New instrument panel

New panoramic curved display houses an optional 12.3-inch driver information cluster and available 12.3-inch audio-video navigation (AVN) system

New audio/video/navigation and HVAC controls with switches and buttons

New steering wheel

New air vents

Rear seat center armrest with two cupholders

New Infotainment/Convenience Technology

Wireless Apple CarPlay  / Android Auto  integration on all trim levels

/ Android Auto integration on all trim levels Over the Air (OTA) software and firmware update support added ii

USB-Type-C ports

Bluelink+ Connected Car technology iii

Hyundai Pay in-car payment system iv

Integrated Memory System

Digital Key 2 Touch

Fingerprint scanner

New towing drive mode (2.5L turbocharged powertrain on Limited and XRT only)

Safety Technology

Forward Attention Warning (FAW)

New Color Choices

Rockwood Green and Canyon Red exterior color choices

Medium Gray seating surfaces

Powertrain

Powerful and Efficient Powertrains

Santa Cruz offers two powerful, flexible and efficient powertrains. The standard powertrain is a 2.5L direct-injected in-line four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and 181 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine couples to an eight-speed automatic transmission for quick acceleration and superb efficiency. Santa Cruz also offers a 2.5L direct-injected turbocharged engine with 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque linked to an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). This DCT includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual shifting control. The 2.5L turbocharged powertrain adds a new tow mode for the 2025 model year.

Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission

The eight-speed transmission for the standard 2.5-liter engine provides quick and crisp shifts for an engaging and efficient driving experience. A multi-disc and individually controlled hydraulic channel torque converter improves responsiveness by expanding the direct connection band, while a downsized oil pump and double ball bearings minimize frictional losses.

HTRAC All-Wheel-Drive

Both 2.5L four-cylinder and 2.5L four-cylinder turbo models offer HTRAC all-wheel drive capability for complete confidence when pursuing adventures of all kinds or for that extra peace of mind when driving in an unexpected snowfall. HTRAC AWD was developed as a multi-mode system, providing an electronic, variable-torque-split clutch with active torque control between the front and rear axles. The Sport setting gives Santa Cruz a more agile feel by sending additional torque to the rear wheels, for a sporty, dynamic experience. This system has a wide range of torque distribution variability, tuned for conditions such as straight-line acceleration, medium- and high-speed cornering, and hill starts. For those customers who like to tow their weekend gear with them, the 2.5L 4-cylinder is rated to tow 3,500 lbs. and the 2.5L Turbo AWD model boasts a generous 5,000 lbs. of towing capability.

Hyundai Motor Americav

Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company's Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (in development in Georgia), and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai's 835 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a recent economic impact report . For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com .

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

i Surround View Monitor (SVM) is a parking support system. SVM cannot completely eliminate blind spots, may not detect every object and does not warn of moving objects. Always check surroundings before moving vehicle. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.

Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) assists driver in changing lanes by providing a live view of the blind spots on either side of the vehicle and an audible alert if another vehicle is detected. Turn signal must be activated and other system limitations apply. Do not rely exclusively on BVM. It is the driver's responsibility to be aware of the surroundings and ensure it is clear before changing lanes or directions. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.

ii Requires active Bluelink subscription.

iii Bluelink+ is available to purchasers and lessees of 2024 and newer Bluelink-equipped Hyundai models. Not available on all models and trims. Bluelink+ requires an active Bluelink account subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Fees apply for map and multimedia over-the-air (OTA) updates after an initial three-year period of complementary updates. Three-year term starts from the new vehicle date of first use. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Bluelink services rely on digital wireless telecommunications technology outside of Hyundai's control. Bluelink is dependent on 4G LTE cellular networks controlled and maintained by third-party wireless carriers. If and when these networks change and/or discontinue service, or the underlying technology required to support Bluelink becomes obsolete, then the connected services will not work and Hyundai will be forced to cancel impacted subscription services.

iv Hyundai Pay is presently only available on select Hyundai models. Requires MyHyundai mobile app and an active Bluelink account, subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. For eligible vehicles, Hyundai Pay is included with Bluelink subscription at no additional cost. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Valid Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit card must be linked to MyHyundai account with Bluelink. Credit card eligibility and terms are determined by the card issuing bank. Accepted by participating merchants for off-street reserved parking only. Availability of such services may change over time and may vary by vehicle and geographic location. Additional merchant terms and fees may apply. Participating merchants may not operate in all locations. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Visit owners.hyundaiusa.com for more information.

v Towing capability varies by configuration. See the towing guide in the Owner's Manual for proper use and additional information.

SOURCE Hyundai Motor America
The partnership will bolster Essence Security's presence in the DACH region as German homes and businesses seek out advanced intervention security solutions

HERZLIYA, Israel, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Essence Security, part of Essence Group, a leading technology group developing and supplying wireless, cloud-based security solutions for homes and businesses, today announced its partnership with GRAEF Gruppe, Germany's leading security service provider with a consortium of eight specialized security companies, to distribute and implement Essence's MyShield standalone connected smoke-generating intruder intervention solution across Germany.

Essence Security Announces Strategic Partnership with GRAEF Gruppe to Transform German Security Landscape with MyShield Offering

Under the partnership, GRAEF Gruppe will distribute MyShield through its vast network of security installers throughout Germany, incorporating the proactive smoke security system into major security projects to meet the growing demand for increased protection. The partnership will offer comprehensive support through webinars, trainings, tradeshows, and personalized consulting, especially for large-scale tenders and projects.

"Collaborating with Essence Security goes beyond a business partnership: we are combining our relative strengths in the security market to elevate standards and safely secure properties across Germany," said Peter Graeff, CEO of GRAEF Gruppe. "Together with Essence, we are ensuring maximum client satisfaction and visibility through various channels to ensure all parties receive full support in installing MyShield. Through this partnership, we are delivering tangible benefits to our clients and their customers, from installation to implementation."

The award-winning, first-of-its-kind device fills a room with a veil of harmless yet disorienting smoke in about 30 seconds, forcing intruders off premises before they can cause harm to people or property. MyShield acts as a 'first responder,' significantly narrowing the window of time in which intruders can operate and providing an enhanced level of security to residential and commercial users -- particularly advantageous in high-risk environments where rapid response is crucial.

For security installers, MyShield has the capacity to offer protection against intruders including places where local power or communication is unavailable such as foreclosures, unrented or unoccupied offices, rental spaces, or even holiday homes lying dormant for extended periods. The combination of motion detection, video verification and smoke intervention makes MyShield uniquely suited for these situations as well as many others.

"With police response times around the world increasing, it is critical individuals have the power to intervene immediately when intrusions occur," said Dr. Haim Amir, CEO of Essence Group. "MyShield was created and designed to help stop crime before first responders arrive on the scene, enhancing customer safety. GRAEF is an essential partner in making intervention solutions like MyShield widely available. We are thrilled to be expanding our presence across Germany with a partner that shares our commitment to providing peace of mind for German home and business owners."

Easy-to-install, MyShield's battery-powered system includes an integrated motion detector, high-definition video camera to eliminate false alarms, and voice announcement. It utilizes cellular IoT networks and can be used as a standalone app-based solution or integrated into existing security and professional monitoring systems. The low-maintenance device can be easily moved to ensure properties have 24/7 security on demand for reliable protection.

For more information on MyShield's availability, please visit here.

About Essence Group

Essence Group is a global technology leader with a mission to develop and deploy innovative, cloud-based, end-to-end security and healthcare solutions, underpinned by supporting services, that provide peace of mind to users. For over a quarter of a century, Essence has challenged convention by making care and safety both accessible and affordable. With over 80 million connected devices deployed worldwide, Essence helps people to live safer and more independent lives.

For more information: https://www.essence-grp.com/

Follow Essence Group on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook

About GRAEF Gruppe

The GRAEF Group has been your specialist in the field of security services since 2007. We plan, advise, distribute and offer maintenance for systems such as alarms, video surveillance, access control systems, fire alarm systems and IT services. We are there for you in Berlin, Brandenburg and nationwide.

Media Contact:

Mushkie Meyer

Headline Media

[email protected]

US:+19143364035

UK:+442037694034

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2373550/Essence_GRAEF.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1705604/Essence_Group_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Essence Group
Leading online quilting company Fat Quarter Shop Hosts Moonbeams Charity Quilt Along & Stitch Along to help raise over $100,000 for Central Texas Kids.

KYLE, Texas, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Fat Quarter Shop, a leading online retailer in the crafting sector, announces its decision to lead a fundraiser to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation by raising money for its annual goal of over $100,000 to help kids in Central Texas facing critical illnesses. Proudly partnering with Moda Fabrics, the company will match up to $30,000 in donations for this worthy cause.

Quilters from around the world are joining Fat Quarter Shop and Moda Fabrics to raise money for Make-A-Wish of Central & South Texas through their Moonbeams Charity Quilt Along. They're encouraging quilters and non-quilters alike to help them reach their goal of $100,000. Anyone can participate by visiting Fat Quarter Shop's Make-a-Wish campaign page and donating before September 1, 2024. https://www.fatquartershop.com/block-of-the-months/moonbeams-charity-quilt-and-stitch-along Quilters from around the world are joining Fat Quarter Shop and Moda Fabrics to raise money for Make-A-Wish of Central & South Texas through their Moonbeams Charity Quilt Along. Help kids just like Adelaide experience the joy that a special wish can bring (shown with Kimberly Jolly) Anyone can participate by visiting Fat Quarter Shop's Make-a-Wish campaign page and donating before September 1, 2024. https://www.fatquartershop.com/block-of-the-months/moonbeams-charity-quilt-and-stitch-along

The Moonbeams Charity Quilt Along & Stitch Along began in March 2024 and runs through September 1, 2024. Designed by the Fat Quarter Shop, the Moonbeams quilt features an elegant nightscape with a navy backdrop, nocturnal birds and blooms, and an array of colors. Participants will make the identical quilt over a period of months via the online quilt-along.

Those interested in participating can visit the Fat Quarter Shop blog to find free quilt block patterns for the Moonbeams Quilt Along, which can be downloaded and printed on the first Friday of each month. Owner Kimberly Jolly will also provide tips for assembling the blocks on her dedicated YouTube channel. Participants are encouraged to donate $10 for the use of each free quilt pattern or a total of $50.

"We are thrilled to continue the tradition of supporting Make-A-Wish," says Jolly. "In 2023, we raised nearly $114,000 for the cause. It is a great opportunity to help these children who are going through some difficult times, and we are grateful to be a part of the event."

The Fat Quarter Shop has organized the annual event since 2014. The company has helped raise over $733,000 and has granted over 110 wishes to sick children.

In business for over two decades, the Fat Quarter Shop is an online retailer specializing in selling a range of quilt and cross stitch supplies, with new product updates posted on its website daily. The company has also published over 50 books and hundreds of patterns related to quilting and cross-stitching under its subsidiary company, It's Sew Emma. The Fat Quarter Shop has over 1 million followers across various social media platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.

About Fat Quarter Shop

Based in Kyle, Texas, Fat Quarter Shop is an online retailer launched in 2003 by Kimberly Jolly. Known for its wide selection of products and precut fabrics, quilt kits, patterns, books, and other quilting and cross stitch supplies, the company offers over 40,000 products, including nearly 20,000 different fabrics. Additionally, the family-run business provides quilt clubs, an informative blog, free quilt patterns, and live weekly tutorials online via its YouTube channel, where Jolly interacts with thousands of quilters and cross-stitchers.

Media Contact:

Kate Shaw, Social Media Manager

Fat Quarter Shop

1-866-826-2069

[email protected]

https://www.fatquartershop.com

SOURCE Fat Quarter Shop
Vita Nova Insights,SM LLC to Provide Real-World Evidence, Platform Solutions & Analytics Support for Accelerating Improvements in Cancer Therapy Development & Patient Outcomes

FORT MYERS, Fla., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, LLC (FCS) today announced the formation of a new healthcare analytics subsidiary. This new entity, named Vita Nova Insights, LLC d/b/a Vita Nova Insights,SM is wholly owned by Community Oncology Revitalization Enterprise, LLC (Core Ventures), FCS' management services organization, and was created to serve as a precision oncology insights and real-world evidence platform. By partnering with FCS to advance oncology research through the development of unique proprietary datasets combining advanced data curation, data science, artificial intelligence, and data analysis capabilities, Vita Nova Insights is positioned to bring differentiated insights to the marketplace.

Vita Nova Insights provides real-world evidence, platform solutions, analytics support to improve cancer care, outcomes. Post this Core Ventures, LLC, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute's management services organization, announces the formation of Vita Nova Insights, LLC, a precision oncology and real-world evidence platform to provide crucial data to support improved oncology therapy development and patient outcomes.

Over the past twelve months, the Vita Nova Insights team has successfully conducted over a dozen real-world evidence studies in collaboration with many of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. One of the compelling advantages of FCS' real-world evidence program is the robust connection with physicians. This provides a means to not only identify challenges with certain therapies but also the ability to efficiently act on those opportunities to improve patient care.

"Healthcare analytics companies aren't new, " said FCS Chief Executive Officer Nathan H. Walcker. "But Vita Nova Insights is unique in its ability to symbiotically partner with FCS and its more than 250 providers across the state of Florida to study the efficacy of oncology treatment protocols and deliver perspectives from the clinic that directly inform clinical decisions and impact patient care downstream. Formally organizing our efforts with Vita Nova Insights cements our deep commitment to oncology research and further reflects our collective ability to generate real-world evidence that truly enables the discovery, development, and optimization of new therapeutic products. This platform is unmatched  harmonizing analytics talent, deep and clinically rich longitudinal datasets, and a market-leading independent community oncology group. There's nothing out there like it," Walcker concluded.

In collaboration with FCS, the new company supports physicians and clinical researchers' access to the diversified data assets at FCS, including EMR, practice management, genomics, oral oncolytic pharmacy, laboratory, radiology, and radiation oncology systems. Information gleaned from our experience caring for over one million patients is standardized against industry reference data and further enriched using external data sources to create a more comprehensive picture of the health of every patient. Vita Nova Insights utilizes industry-leading data science, artificial intelligence, and its clinical oncology expertise to generate insights that help optimize patient care, enable clinical research, and convert FCS' real-world data into the real-world evidence needed for the discovery and development of new therapies.

President & Managing Physician Lucio N. Gordan, MD added, "The advances we have been able to achieve in data aggregation, curation, and analysis over the past three years have put meaningful data literally at physicians' fingertips, enabled precision-oncology decision support and provided clinical insights that enable us to be more nimble, more efficient in delivering superior patient care and cutting-edge therapies across the entire practice."

Vita Nova Insights provides FCS physicians with analytic insights into all next-generation sequencing tests performed across the practice through an in-house service branded MolecularHelpSM powered by the FCS PRECISESM precision-oncology platform.

"Given the pace of innovation in precision-oncology, with new therapies coming to market at a rate never seen before, it is challenging for physicians to keep up." said Senior Vice President & Data Officer Trevor W. Heritage, PhD, "Vita Nova Insights analyses every genomics test result, in the context of the full patient clinical record, and alerts physicians to corresponding treatment options and associated evidence in real-time," he concluded.

About Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, LLC: (FLCancer.com)

Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) offers patients access to more clinical trials than any private oncology practice in Florida. The majority of new cancer drugs recently approved for use in the U.S. were studied in clinical trials with FCS participation.* Recognized for our research, FCS is a recipient of the National Clinical Trials Participation Award presented by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). FCS physicians, trained in prestigious medical schools and research institutes, are consistently ranked nationally as Top Doctors by U.S. News & World Report.

Celebrating its 40th year in 2024, FCS has built a national reputation for excellence that is reflected in exceptional and compassionate patient care, driven by innovative clinical research, cutting-edge technologies, and advanced treatments, including targeted therapies genomic-based treatment, and immunotherapy. Our highest values are embodied by our outstanding team of highly trained and dedicated physicians, clinicians, and staff.

*Before approval

About Core Ventures

Community Oncology Revitalization Enterprise Ventures, L.L.C.,(Core Ventures) a physician-owned management services organization, provides operational and advisory support services to the nearly 100 FCS clinics throughout the state of Florida.

Core Ventures helps align the varied practice locations, ancillary services, and patient care across FCS service lines by providing efficient and effective enterprise-wide management services.

SOURCE Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute
Magee to lead operations for event franchises including Fortune Global Forum, CEO Initiative, Brainstorm Health, Impact Initiative, and Innovation Forum, among others

NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fortune Media announced today the appointment of Jen Magee, an accomplished management and finance executive from the publishing industry, as the General Manager of its thriving Fortune Live Media unit.

At Fortune, Magee will focus on innovating and expanding several key conferences and events that have made Fortune the leader in convening some of the business world's most prestigious communities. She will oversee the business and operations for Fortune's premier conference and event franchises including Fortune Global Forum, CEO Initiative, Brainstorm Health, Impact Initiative, and Fortune Innovation Forum. In this newly created role, Magee will report to Anastasia Nyrkovskaya, Fortune's Chief Strategy Officer, and will be based in New York City.

She joins Fortune from Needham Partners, a consulting firm specializing in purpose-driven summits and membership conferences, where she served most recently as the Chief Operating Officer. Needham has been a longtime partner with Fortune on creating and executing conferences and events.

Magee is no stranger to Fortune. Prior to Needham Partners, she spent more than a decade at Time Inc. as the Group Director of Finance for the Fortune Magazine Group, managing the organization's financial and business operations. She also served as the general manager of Time Inc.'s Essence Communications, leading operations for the business in addition to the Essence Music Festival, the nation's largest live event celebrating African American culture, held every summer in New Orleans. She has also held finance positions at Conde Nast and Hearst Magazines.

"Fortune is the best at convening the coveted C-suite audience, whether it is at live events, or through Fortune.com, our newsletters, and Fortune magazine," said Magee. "I was privileged to support the brand previously and am honored to join the Fortune team that is leading its global expansion. Now I look forward to working alongside the new executive team to continue to build this incredibly respected brand's vision to make business better."

Fortune's Diane Brady, Executive Director of Fortune Live Media and Editorial Director of Fortune's CEO Initiative, said: "Jen is the gold standard when it comes to putting on world-class events, and I can't imagine a better person to join us as we work to create a more robust network of leaders to join us in having these important and timely discussions."

About Fortune

Fortune upholds a legacy of award-winning writing and trusted reporting for executives who want to make business better. Independently owned, with a global perspective and digital agility, Fortune tells the stories of a new generation of innovators, builders, and risk takers. Online and in print, Fortune measures corporate performance through rigorous benchmarks, and holds companies accountable. Fortune creates communities by convening true thought leaders and iconoclasts  those who shape industry, commerce, and society  through powerful and prestigious lists, events, and conferences, such as the iconic Fortune 500, the CEO Initiative and Most Powerful Women. For more information, visit fortune.com.

Media Contacts:

Patrick Reilly

Fortune

[email protected]

Amy Galleazzi

[email protected]

SOURCE Fortune Media (USA) Corporation
Custom Templates, Video in Carousels & Stories, Multi-Card Designs, and Shareable Slideshows Drive Marketing and Print Sales.

PORTLAND, Ore., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fundy Software Inc. has launched 4 new updates to their award winning design and IPS platform, Fundy Designer, since launching version 11 of the platform in January, 2024. Fundy Designer v11 features the world's first automated design engine, named the Design Wizard, that instantly designs an entire album, multiple wall art collections, and cards all at once, in a single click, with images that are intuitively auto retouched on import with Perfectly Clear software.

In February, Fundy Software added the ability for photographers to save and auto design off of their own templates. Fundy Designer's Design Library features hundreds of different templates for albums, magazines, wall art collections, cards and more. Photographers, using Fundy's patented Drop Zone technology, can easily customize, swap or add images or colors, adjust size, slide or scale any element or set of elements on a page or spread, to make the final design their own vision. Photographers can then save that custom design as their own template to use repeatedly with the auto design feature in Fundy Designer.

In early March, the company announced it had added the ability to include videos in Instagram carousels and Facebook stories generated from their Social Design App . The Social Design App , included with any Fundy Designer subscription or lease, allows photographers to select a handful of photos and videos from their phone, choose a stylized template, add prompted text, and in 1-Click, have a carousel, a set of stories, a vertical slideshow and a horizontal slideshow all ready to post.

In mid-March, the company announced it had added the ability to design multiple cards and or multiple design options of the same card theme to their Design Wizard. Now, utilizing the Design Wizard, in a single click, photographers can design an album, multiple wall art collections, and multiple cards options or themes (save the date, holiday, thank you) at the same time.

Most recently, Fundy Software announced that they had updated their Award Winner Proofer software so photographers can not only embed their slideshows in their websites but can also allow clients to easily share them with family and friends. Unlike other photography slideshows applications, Fundy Designer's proofer allows photographers to include fully designed albums, cards and wall art collections within slideshows. Every time a client shares their slideshow, it's free marketing not only the photographer's work but also their available printed products.

Learn more about updates here:

Save Your Own Templates:

https://www.fundydesigner.com/save-your-own-templates-make-v11-yours/

Shareable & Embeddable Slideshows: https://www.fundydesigner.com/new-proofer-slideshow-sharable-and-embeddable/

Multiple Card Designs in Design Wizard: https://www.fundydesigner.com/v11-update-multiple-card-designs-in-a-click/

Video In Carousels and Stories: https://www.fundydesigner.com/new-add-video-to-instagram-carousels-and-more/

"We strive to continuously update and improve our software, design library and offerings to help professional photographers not only sell more beautifully designed printed memories but do so with ease by automating and improving the workflow process," Andrew Funderburg, founder Fundy Software.

About Fundy Software

Founded in 2008, Portland, Oregon-based Fundy Software is the creator of Fundy Designer, a professional design and IPS suite for professional photographers. It provides photographers the creative freedom to design, sell, proof and print albums, wall art collections, cards, studio magazines and more, quickly and easily. Their professional tools such as Auto Design, One Click Skin Retouching, Online Proofing, and more, save photographers countless hours and drive sales. Visit www.fundy.com to learn more and download the free trial.

Contact:

Karen Bruhn

[email protected]

SOURCE Fundy Software
SCHAFFHAUSEN, Switzerland, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN) invites shareholders and investors to listen to its first quarter 2024 earnings conference call on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. EDT, with executives of Garmin. The call will be held in conjunction with the company's earnings release, which will be distributed prior to market open on May 1, 2024.

What: Garmin Ltd. First Quarter 2024 Earnings Call

When: Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. EDT

Where: Join the live webcast at http://www.garmin.com/en-US/company/investors/events/. An archive of the live webcast will be available until April 30, 2025.

Register: Participants in the U.S. and Canada who wish to join by phone, and analysts who wish to participate in the question-and-answer session should join by dialing 1.800.715.9871. It is recommended that you join 10 minutes prior to the event start (although you may register and dial in at any time during the call).

Contact: [email protected]

About Garmin Ltd:

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for runners, cyclists, swimmers and athletes of all levels and abilities. Committed to developing technology that helps people stay active and elevate performance, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN) is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual Newsroom, email our press team, or follow us on LinkedIn.

INVESTOR CONTACT:

Teri Seck

Garmin International Inc.

Phone | 913/397-8200

E-Mail | [email protected]

MEDIA CONTACT:

Krista Klaus

Garmin International Inc.

Phone | 913/397-8200

E-Mail | [email protected]

SOURCE Garmin Ltd.
ORLANDO, Fla., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Gauntlet Funding, a leading hard money lender and private money lender headquartered in New York, announces its strategic expansion into Florida, marking the beginning of its footprint in additional states. With a proven track record of facilitating real estate transactions with agility and expertise, Gauntlet Funding aims to bring its innovative lending solutions to investors and developers in new markets.

As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, access to timely and flexible financing remains paramount for investors seeking to capitalize on opportunities. With its entrance into Florida, Gauntlet Funding is poised to revolutionize the lending landscape by offering customized solutions tailored to the unique needs of investors in the region.

"Expanding into Florida and beyond represents an exciting milestone for Gauntlet Funding," said Lou Forino, Managing Director at Gauntlet Funding. "We are thrilled to bring our decades of experience and expertise in hard money lending to new markets, providing investors with the financial resources they need to succeed."

Gauntlet Funding's transition into Florida is part of its broader vision to broaden its reach and better serve clients across multiple states. Leveraging its extensive network of investors and industry partners, "Florida presents a wealth of opportunities for real estate investors, and we are committed to supporting their endeavors with tailored private lending solutions," added Raffaele Forino. "Whether it's residential or multi-family properties, Gauntlet Funding is here to provide investors with the financial support they need to achieve their goals."

Gauntlet Funding specializes in a variety of lending options, including:

Fix-and-Flip Loans : Designed for investors looking to purchase distressed properties, renovate them, and sell them for a profit. These loans provide quick access to capital to cover purchase and renovation costs, enabling investors to maximize their returns in a competitive market.

: Designed for investors looking to purchase distressed properties, renovate them, and sell them for a profit. These loans provide quick access to capital to cover purchase and renovation costs, enabling investors to maximize their returns in a competitive market. Bridge Loans : Ideal for investors who need short-term financing to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one. Bridge loans offer flexibility and speed, allowing investors to seize time-sensitive opportunities without being constrained by traditional lending criteria.

: Ideal for investors who need short-term financing to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one. Bridge loans offer flexibility and speed, allowing investors to seize time-sensitive opportunities without being constrained by traditional lending criteria. Construction Loans : Tailored for developers undertaking new construction projects, these loans provide funds to cover land acquisition, construction costs, and related expenses. With flexible terms and competitive rates, construction loans empower developers to bring their vision to life and capitalize on emerging market trends.

: Tailored for developers undertaking new construction projects, these loans provide funds to cover land acquisition, construction costs, and related expenses. With flexible terms and competitive rates, construction loans empower developers to bring their vision to life and capitalize on emerging market trends. Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans: Providing financing solutions for income-producing properties such as rental buildings, and multifamily residences. DSCR loans assess the property's ability to generate sufficient income to cover debt obligations, ensuring investors secure favorable terms and competitive rates based on the property's cash flow.

In addition to its expansion into Florida, Gauntlet Funding remains dedicated to upholding its core values of integrity, transparency, and exceptional customer service. Clients can expect personalized attention from experienced professionals who are committed to guiding them through every step of the lending process.

With its entrance into Florida and plans for further expansion, Gauntlet Funding reaffirms its commitment to empowering investors and developers with the financial resources necessary to thrive in dynamic real estate markets.

About Gauntlet Funding

Gauntlet Funding is a leading hard money lender and private money lender specializing in real estate financing solutions. With headquarters in New York and expanding into Florida and beyond, Gauntlet Funding offers customized lending options tailored to the unique needs of investors and developers. Gauntlet Funding offers tailored solutions to help investors maximize returns and achieve long-term financial success in the real estate market.

For more information, visit https://www.gauntletfunding.com/ or call (631) 4652161.

SOURCE Gauntlet Funding
DUBLIN, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Swarm Intelligence Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Model (Ant Colony Optimization, Particle Swarm Optimization, Others), By Capability, By Application, By End-use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global swarm intelligence market size is anticipated to reach USD 306.1 million by 2030 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 38.4% from 2024 to 2030.

The increasing complexity of problem-solving requirements in numerous industries, such as automotive & transportation, healthcare & life science, agriculture, and others, fuels the demand for swarm intelligence. Traditional algorithms may need help to handle intricate and multifaceted challenges. By leveraging collective intelligence, Swarm intelligence addresses complex problems ranging from financial modeling and optimization to data analysis. Its adaptive nature and capacity to handle intricate scenarios make it a preferred choice for industries grappling with increasingly sophisticated problem landscapes.

The increasing focus on decentralized and edge computing drives the expansion of the market. Swarm intelligence aligns seamlessly with edge computing principles, allowing for distributed decision-making and processing closer to the data source. It aligns particularly well with the requirements of applications such as edge analytics, where quick and localized decision-making is paramount.

In addition, environmental monitoring and conservation efforts are contributing to the growth of the market. The ability of swarm intelligence to efficiently monitor and manage environmental parameters, such as air quality, biodiversity, and climate conditions, makes it an instrumental technology for ecological studies and conservation initiatives. The collaborative nature of swarm intelligence allows for deploying sensor networks that collectively gather and process environmental data, aiding in sustainable resource management and conservation efforts.

Swarm Intelligence Market Report Highlights

Ant colony optimization dominated the market with a share of 45.0% in 2023 owing to the increasing complexity of optimization problems encountered across diverse industries

The particle swarm optimization segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in particle swarm optimization

Optimization segment dominated the market in 2023, fueled by the increasing demand for adaptive and self-learning systems

Routing segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. Increasing demand for intelligent and autonomous systems in transportation is driving the segment growth

The robotics segment dominated the market in 2023. The increasing complexity of tasks in industries such as logistics, further drives the need for swarm intelligence in the robotics segment

The human swarming segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period, driven by the demand for effective crowd management, enhanced teamwork, and decentralized decision-making

decision-making Transportation & logistics dominated the market in 2023. Swarm intelligence in transportation and logistics is driven by the imperative to reduce environmental impact

Retail & e-commerce is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. The demand for efficient and dynamic pricing strategies drives the adoption of swarm intelligence in the retail and e-commerce segment

North America dominated the market with a share of 36.3% in 2023, driven by widespread adoption across industries, technological innovation, focus on sustainability, and supportive regulatory frameworks

Company Profiles

ConvergentAI, Inc

Robert Bosch GmbH

DoBots

Swarm Technology

Valutico

PowerBlox

Mobileye

Continental AG

Apium Swarm Robotics

Kim Technologies

Hydromea

Sentien Robotics

Axon Enterprise, Inc

SSI Schafer - Fritz Schafer

Enswarm

Key Topics Covered:

Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope

1.1. Market Segmentation and Scope

1.2. Market Definitions

1.3. Research Methodology

1.4. Research Scope and Assumptions



Chapter 2. Executive Summary

2.1. Market Outlook

2.2. Segment Outlook

2.3. Competitive Insights



Chapter 3. Swarm Intelligence Market Variables, Trends, & Scope

3.1. Market Introduction/Lineage Outlook

3.2. Market Size and Growth Prospects (USD Million)

3.3. Industry Value Chain Analysis

3.4. Market Dynamics

3.4.1. Market Drivers Analysis

3.4.1.1. The rising adoption of swarm-based drones in military

3.4.1.2. Growing government initiatives for the development of AI

3.4.2. Market Restraints Analysis

3.4.2.1. Resistance to the use of swarm intelligence technology

3.4.3. Industry Opportunities

3.4.4. Industry Challenges

3.5. Swarm Intelligence Market Analysis Tools

3.5.1. Porter's Analysis

3.5.2. PESTEL Analysis



Chapter 4. Swarm Intelligence Market: Model Estimates & Trend Analysis

4.1. Segment Dashboard

4.2. Swarm Intelligence Market: Model Movement Analysis, 2023 & 2030 (USD Million)

4.3. Ant Colony Optimization

4.4. Particle Swarm Optimization

4.5. Others



Chapter 5. Swarm Intelligence Market: Capability Estimates & Trend Analysis

5.1. Segment Dashboard

5.2. Swarm Intelligence Market: Capability Movement Analysis, 2023 & 2030 (USD Million)

5.3. Optimization

5.4. Clustering

5.5. Scheduling

5.6. Routing



Chapter 6. Swarm Intelligence Market: Application Estimates & Trend Analysis

6.1. Segment Dashboard

6.2. Swarm Intelligence Market: Application Movement Analysis, 2023 & 2030 (USD Million)

6.3. Robotics

6.4. Drones

6.5. Human Swarming



Chapter 7. Swarm Intelligence Market: End-use Estimates & Trend Analysis

7.1. Segment Dashboard

7.2. Swarm Intelligence Market: End-use Movement Analysis, 2023 & 2030 (USD Million)

7.3. Transportation & Logistics

7.4. Robotics & Automation

7.5. Healthcare

7.6. Retail & E-commerce

7.7. Others



Chapter 8. Swarm Intelligence Market: Regional Estimates & Trend Analysis

8.1. Swarm Intelligence Market Share, By Region, 2023 & 2030, USD Million



Chapter 9. Competitive Landscape

9.1. Recent Developments & Impact Analysis by Key Market Participants

9.2. Company Categorization

9.3. Company Market Positioning

9.4. Company Market Share Analysis

9.5. Company Heat Map Analysis

9.6. Strategy Mapping

9.6.1. Expansion

9.6.2. Mergers & Acquisition

9.6.3. Partnerships & Collaborations

9.6.4. New Product Launches

9.6.5. Research And Development

9.7. Company Profiles

9.7.1. Participant's Overview

9.7.2. Product Benchmarking

9.7.3. Recent Developments/ Strategic Initiatives

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/cigw0b

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

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Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
BEIJING, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- High-level Chinese officials on Monday met with heads of global organizations and business leaders as the China Development Forum (CDF) concluded in Beijing, reaffirming China's pursuit of high-quality development and high-level opening-up to create more opportunities for the world.

With the conclusion of the CDF, global attention is now turning to the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA), which is set to kick off its annual conference in Boao, South China's Hainan Province on Tuesday, with regional leaders, government officials, business executives and scholars from Asia and around the world expected to attend the forum, which is looking to promote unity and cooperation to tackle regional and global challenges.

Both the CDF and the BFA provide a crucial window for countries and businesses in Asia and beyond to view China's economic outlook, opening-up measures as well as its plan to promote peace and development in Asia and around the world. And the back-to-back forums further underscored China's commitment to expanding high-level opening-up and its contribution to peace and development in the region and around the world.

On Monday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang met separately with Ajay Banga, president of the World Bank, and Kristalina Georgieva, managing director the IMF in Beijing, according to China Media Group. In the meeting with Banga, Li said China will continuously create a world-class business environment to share development opportunities with all countries. During the meeting with Georgieva, Li said that China has the confidence and capability to maintain continuous and sound economic development.

Also on Monday, Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Masatsugu Asakawa, president of the Asian Development Bank, according to the Xinhua News Agency.

Meanwhile, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met separately with Darren Woods, executive chair and CEO of US-based Exxon Mobil Corp and Pascal Soriot, CEO of UK-based AstraZeneca on Monday.

The heads of the multinational lenders and the executives of the two companies attended the CDF, which drew over 100 foreign guests, including dozens of multinational executives. Just a day after the CDF, the BFA annual meeting is set to kick off, with high-level officials and business leaders attending.

Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, will attend the opening plenary of the BFA Annual Conference 2024 and deliver a keynote speech on Thursday, Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, announced on Monday.

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Nauru's President David W.R. Adeang, Sri Lankan's Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Dominica Roosevelt Skerrit, and Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, president of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization Daren Tang, and Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Mathias Cormann will also attend the BFA Annual Conference, the forum announced on Monday.

On Monday, the media center for the BFA officially opened to reporters from around the world, indicating that Boao has finished setting the stage for the annual conference. Known as "China's Davos," Boao is the permanent home of the BFA, which was first launched to promote integration in the Asia Pacific and has risen to become an influential global forum, similar to the World Economic Forum in the Swiss resort town of Davos.

"As an important economic exchange platform for Asia and even the world, the forum, which is held after China's two sessions and the China Development Forum, carries special significance," Wang Peng, an associate researcher at the Beijing Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Monday, "it is not only an important window for China to display its development concepts and achievements, but also an important platform for executives and officials from various countries to exchange ideas and discuss cooperation."

Under the theme "Asia and the World: Common Challenges, Shared Responsibility," this year's annual conference hopes to bolster unity and cooperation, rebuild confidence and trust, and collectively foster peace and development, according to Li Baodong, secretary general of the BFA.

Specifically, the BFA Annual Conference, which is scheduled to run from Tuesday to Friday, will focus on major topics such as China's economic outlook, Asia's development and cooperation, and the global geopolitical and economic outlook, according to the forum's agenda.

Highlighting the BFA's focus on emerging issues, this year's meeting will also include discussions on topics such as the rise of artificial intelligence and new-energy vehicles. Global challenges such as trade fragmentation and climate change will also be among the topics of discussion. The rise of the Global South and how it should jointly promote an orderly and equitable multipolar world will also be among the hot topics in Boao.

Global significance

"Asia is an important pillar of world development, and it is a region with a high degree of concentration of countries in the Global South. Given such a background, the BFA is not just about Asia but the world," Miao Lu, cofounder and secretary-general of the nongovernment think tank Center for China and Globalization, who is attending the BFA, told the Global Times on Monday, noting that the BFA has become a platform for Asia to speak out on the global stage, calling for shared responsibilities to tackle challenges.

The BFA annual meeting comes as both Asia and the world at large face tremendous risks and challenges. China's approach for win-win cooperation is gaining support among regional and global leaders, business executives and scholars, as evidenced by the high-level, widespread participation in the CDF and the BFA.

In addition to high-level government officials, scores of multinational business executives are expected to attend the meeting. Top executives who are expected to attend the BFA include Robert Goldstein, chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands, Christian Bruch, president and CEO of Siemens Energy AG, Pascal Soriot, CEO of AstraZeneca, and Yumi Harada, chairman of the Japan General Chamber of Commerce and president of Joyful.

"I just attended the CDF, where global CEOs, mainly US CEOs, generally showed full confidence in China's economy," Wang Yiwei, a professor at the School of International Relations at Renmin University of China who will also attend the BFA annual meeting, told the Global Times on Monday. "The BFA annual meeting is a seamless continuation of the CDF."

At the CDF, Chinese officials offered reassurance to global businesses about China's solid economic fundamentals and its commitment to opening-up, a message that will also be conveyed to Asia and the world through the BFA, experts noted.

"I think the world has begun to deviate from the theme of peace and development. We have to return to this theme," Miao said, noting that against such a backdrop, China has been persistently promoting peace and development. "This is the manifestation of our major-country diplomacy."

SOURCE Global Times
BEIJING, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Chinese President Xi Jinping, during an inspection tour to Central China's Hunan Province this week, called on Hunan to follow a realistic and pragmatic approach to write its own chapter in advancing Chinese modernization and called for solid efforts to further energize the country's central region at a higher starting point.

This is the first local inspection tour made by Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, after the national two sessions. The trip underscored the critical role of Central China in the country's pursuit of high-quality development as well as its vast potential in forming new quality productive forces, economists said.

The rise of China's central region and continuous opening-up will also provide greater opportunities for the world, as it sends an increasing number of high-quality products to overseas markets and brings in many multinational businesses to invest and expand in the region, economists noted. Some foreign businesses also said they are committed to expanding investment in the region and across the country.

Region in spotlight

During the inspection tour from March 18 to March 21, Xi called on Hunan to stay committed to reform and innovation and follow a realistic and pragmatic approach to write its own chapter in advancing Chinese modernization, the Xinhua News Agency reported.

On March 20, Xi chaired a symposium on further energizing the central region in the new era, calling for solid efforts to further energize the central region at a higher starting point. In his speech, Xi highlighted the central region's pivotal role as the country's important grain production base, energy and raw material base, modern equipment manufacturing and high-tech industry base, and comprehensive transportation hub, according to Xinhua.

China's central region includes six provinces - Shanxi, Anhui, Jiangxi, Henan, Hubei and Hunan, and accounts for one-tenth of the country's land area, more than one-fourth of the population, and more than one-fifth of the country's total GDP. The region plays a critical role in China's pursuit of Chinese modernization. In 2023, the central region's combined GDP reached 26.99 trillion yuan ($3.75 trillion), with a growth rate of 4.9 percent, slightly lower than the country's GDP growth rate of 5.2 percent, according to official data.

At the symposium, Xi said that since the previous symposium on energizing the central region was held five years ago, the region's development has reached a higher level. He also noted that further energizing the central region still faces many difficulties and challenges that require practical research to solve them.

Specifically, the Chinese president called for more efforts to push forward industrial innovation led by scientific and technological innovation, and actively cultivate new quality productive forces. He also called for forward-looking plans for future industries and a faster pace in modernizing the industrial system underpinned by advanced manufacturing.

The top leader's remarks and the inspection tour in Hunan not only underscored the central region's great importance, but also highlighted its vast potential, as the country moves swiftly to develop new quality productive forces and high-quality development, economists said.

"From the perspective of China's coordinated regional development strategy, the rise of the central region carries great significance for the pursuit of Chinese modernization," Cao Heping, an economist at Peking University, told the Global Times. "It can fully leverage its comparative advantages to cultivate and strengthen advanced manufacturing industries, and seize opportunities to cultivate and develop new quality productive forces."

Coordinated regional development is a national strategy in China. This year's Government Work Report, which was adopted at the two sessions earlier this month, also vowed to pursue better coordinated regional development. It said China will thoroughly implement the strategies for accelerated rise of the central region. At the two sessions, new quality productive forces also became a buzzword.

During the inspection tour in Hunan, Xi also learned about local efforts to accelerate the development of new quality productive forces and promote high-standard opening-up.

With advantages in areas such as clean energy, raw materials as well as massive computing capacity, the central region has great advantage in developing new emerging industries, according to Hu Qimu, a deputy secretary-general of the digital-real economies integration Forum 50.

"The Fourth Industrial Revolution, led by digitalization, has changed the traditional layout of industries, which usually focuses on the coastal regions. Now, the inland regions also have some advantages in fostering high-end industries," Hu told the Global Times.

Vast potential

Various cities in the central region have already made great strides in developing critical industries such as automobiles, digital information and equipment manufacturing, and have formed a number of industrial clusters with main business income exceeding 100 billion yuan.

Changsha, for example, has developed six manufacturing industry clusters with an output value of more than 100 billion yuan, covering engineering machinery, automobiles and parts, new materials and digital information, according to media reports. Hefei, the provincial capital of Anhui, has also become a major breeding ground for high-tech companies in areas such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence, which has become globally known as the "Hefei model."

High-level opening-up is also a top priority for the development of the central region. At the symposium on March 20, Xi urged the region to promote deep reforms and high-level opening up in a coordinated manner in its efforts to grow into a more competitive inland pacesetter for opening up. Also during the inspection tour, Xi reaffirmed the nation's commitment to opening-up and developing new quality productive forces, as he visited BASF Shanshan Battery Materials Co, a joint venture (JV) between German chemical giant BASF and Chinese lithium battery materials maker Ningbo Shanshan Corp.

Economists said the central region also has great potential in both expanding foreign trade and attracting global investments.

"While various central provinces have great advantages in developing industrial clusters, they are also vigorously promoting the construction of platforms for opening-up and exploring new models of developing an open economy," Cao said.

By joining various national opening-up initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative, the central region has also seen steady rise in foreign trade. In 2023, the central region's exports and imports reached 3.62 trillion yuan, with its proportion of the national total surging 3.7 percentage points from that of 2012. Many cities in the region have joined the China-Europe Railway Express, with Henan's overseas freight train network alone covering over 140 cities in 40 countries in Europe and Asia.

The region is also drawing increasing foreign investments, especially in high-tech areas. In 2023, Hubei saw a foreign investment of more than 19 billion yuan, up 11.39 percent year-on-year and ranking the top among central provinces. Foreign investment in high-tech fields accelerated, with information transmission, software and information technology services growing by 45.66 percent, and high-tech manufacturing growing by 76.35 percent, according to official data.

With greater efforts to improve business environment and attract foreign investment, many multinationals like BASF are expanding investments not only in the central region but across China.

"BASF Shanshan Battery Material Co is confident and committed to further developing our business in the new-energy industry. We will continuously leverage our innovation capabilities, and strengthen the collaboration with local and international partners, contributing to the high-quality development of the lithium cathode active material industry as well as China's 'dual carbon' targets," Peng Wenjie, executive deputy general manager, COO and CTO of BASF Shanshan, told the Global Times.

SOURCE Global Times
Gluware 5.3 furthers company's commitment to make mission critical networks unstoppable

SACRAMENTO, Calif., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Gluware , the leader in intelligent network automation, today announced the release of Gluware 5.3, that accelerates and expands the capabilities of network automation within customers' mission critical networks. With its latest update, Gluware is empowering IT leaders to secure networks faster and ensure network performance through a suite of comprehensive plug-and-play features. By simplifying the deployment and management of these network solutions, Gluware enables IT teams to ensure business continuity with greater efficiency.

Gartner predicts that "by 2026, 30% of enterprises will automate more than half of their network activities, a significant increase from less than 10% in early 2023." As IT leaders further embrace network hyperautomation, Gluware is reinforcing its commitment to providing the most powerful and user-friendly solutions for the modern network landscape. As part of its enhancements, Gluware 5.3 features updates to Network RPA, allowing users to program any third-party API call through the platform's a drag-and-drop interface, optimizing integrations and delivering the fastest time to value in the industry. It also offers new software delivery features that allow for more flexibility and granularity in providing OS upgrades at scale. Furthermore, Gluware 5.3 has added support for third-party solutions in OS Manager, giving netops teams improved management capabilities of their multi-vendor network environments to enhance security, reduce risk, and prevent outages.

"At Gluware, customer success is our top priority," said Ernest Lefner, Chief Product Officer at Gluware. "We have a deep understanding of customers' critical priorities and are laser-focused on building products that make their work easier and deliver tangible results. Gluware 5.3 is a testament to our team's commitment, and we're incredibly proud of the advancements it brings to the market. This update is just the first wave of exciting developments we have planned for this year as we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in network hyperautomation."

Additionally, Gluware 5.3 includes the following updates:

Expanded IPv6 support for file servers to support the federal government's mandated transition to Ipv6 by the end of 2025

to support the federal government's mandated transition to Ipv6 by the end of 2025 Enhanced prebuilt integrations with ServiceNow and Cisco to address more use cases and simplify network management

to address more use cases and simplify network management Configuration backup and restore for reducing downtime, improving disaster recovery, increasing consistency across multiple systems, and enhancing security. Now customers can easily complete configuration backup and restore without the requirement of using configuration modeling

for reducing downtime, improving disaster recovery, increasing consistency across multiple systems, and enhancing security. Now customers can easily complete configuration backup and restore without the requirement of using configuration modeling Increased multi-vendor and multi-domain support , including new OS Manager options, Cisco ACI contracts support for tenant management, OS Manager support for Cisco SD-WAN (Viptela), and configuration modeling

, including new OS Manager options, Cisco ACI contracts support for tenant management, OS Manager support for Cisco SD-WAN (Viptela), and configuration modeling Network RPA enhancements, including several new tasks and new features, such as Object Compare and GluAPI Get Workflow

To learn more about the latest updates and features in Gluware 5.3, watch our on-demand webinar briefing

Gartner Insights, Highlights From Gartner IT Infrastructure, Operations & Cloud Strategies Conference, 07 December 2023. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

About Gluware

Gluware provides the leading intelligent network automation suite for Global 2000 enterprises, trusted across industries from finance to pharma. Gluware automates the networks of the world's largest and most complex enterprises, keeping them secure and in compliance. The company's code-free, multi-vendor solutions and intent-based approach to network automation reduce the business risk of outages while lowering costs and increasing efficiency. For more information, please visit www.gluware.com .

Media Contact

Lee Regal

Lumina Communications for Gluware

[email protected]

SOURCE Gluware
"Big Oil is at it again  this time trying to undermine a landmark public health law I signed that would protect California neighborhoods from the effects of toxic drilling near places where people and their families live and play. I will continue to stand with front-line communities to make the oil industry play by the rules. Make no mistake, in November, we will KEEP THE LAW that finally forces Oil Companies to put our health before their greed," said Governor Gavin Newsom.

Nearly 30,000 oil and gas wells in California sit within 3,200 feet of homes, schools, hospitals and other public areas, exposing nearly 3 million people, disproportionately communities of color, to emissions that can cause birth defects, respiratory illnesses and cancer. An independent scientific advisory panel in 2021 advised California officials that a 3,200-foot setback between oil wells and sensitive receptors is the minimum distance to protect public health.

"No matter the cost, Big Oil is trying to overturn California law and keep their toxic oil drilling next to California schools, hospitals, and neighborhoods - regardless of the cost of their pollution to public health," said Martha Dina Arguello, Executive Director of Physicians for Social Responsibility (PSR-LA). "We won't let them continue their deception because we know first-hand the devastating impacts of oil drilling next-door to where people live, particularly for the elderly, people of child bearing age and children. That's why we're keeping all options on the table to get the truth out about protecting Californians from Big Oil's greed and underhanded multi-million dollar campaign of toxic deception."

"Voters know that Big Oil is trying to overturn a historic public safety law that would protect our communities from toxic drilling, and they will overwhelmingly vote to KEEP THE LAW," said Darryl Molina Sarmiento, Executive Director of Communities for a Better Environment, a co-founding coalition member of Standing Together Against Neighborhood Drilling L.A. and the Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California. "Our broad and diverse coalition, including youth and working families living next to neighborhood oil drilling, will work every day until the election to ensure that voters have the information they need to protect the health and safety of our communities and keep the law that establishes a 3,200 foot buffer zone from homes, schools and hospitals in place."

"KEEP THE LAW" Campaign endorsers include public health groups, community and faith organizations, and environmental justice leaders from across California, working to hold oil companies accountable for creating a public health crisis, especially for communities of color.

For more information about our campaign, please visit our website at: www.CAvsBigOil.com

Ad Paid for by Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California, sponsored by nonprofit

environmental and health organizations. Ad Committee's Top Funders:

Advocacy Action Fund, Inc

Nancy Burnett

Holdfast Trust

Funding Details at www.fppc.ca.gov

SOURCE Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California
GuideWell delivers on commitment to health equity and community well-being, providing

$28.4 million in charitable giving to improve the health of local communities.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation (GuideWell), a leading not-for-profit, policyholder-owned health solutions organization, released its 2023 Impact Report which details the company's progress in its efforts to improve health outcomes and increase access to quality, affordable health care.

The report details the strides GuideWell has made to advance an inclusive workplace, increase supplier diversity, strengthen food security, provide comprehensive mental well-being resources, and reduce health disparities.

"We are committed to serving as a force for good and improving the health care system for everyone." - Pat Geraghty, President & CEO of GuideWell and Florida Blue Post this GuideWell publishes 2023 Impact Report

"At GuideWell, to help people truly live healthier lives, we are constantly thinking beyond the boundaries of the traditional health care system and engaging actively with partners in our communities, collaborating to find and implement real solutions that change people's lives," said Pat Geraghty, president and CEO of GuideWell and its largest subsidiary, the health solutions company Florida Blue. "We are committed to serving as a force for good and improving the health care system for everyone."

In 2023, through its joint venture with Sanitas Medical Centers (Sanitas USA), GuideWell opened eight new clinics and plans to open 30 additional locations over the next three years, building on the organization's commitment to increasing access to quality whole-person, customized, coordinated care throughout Florida.

GuideWell works to better serve diverse communities by understanding their unique health challenges. Last year, it launched qualitative studies on multicultural engagement and health literacy and provided culturally relevant experiences for its customers. It also made strategic hyperlocal investments to support those with the greatest needs, spearheading initiatives that target major issues, such as diabetes, social isolation, and generational poverty.

Led by its Chief Health Equity Officer, Dr. Kelli Tice, GuideWell created a whole health index to measure member health holistically, taking community, social, and clinical drivers into account. The index monitors disparities to identify areas of improvement and indicators to help guide future efforts.

Additional 2023 report highlights include:

$28.4 million provided in charitable giving to improve the health of local communities

provided in charitable giving to improve the health of local communities $1.5 million invested to address generational poverty in six ZIP codes

to address generational poverty in six ZIP codes $4 million allocated to health equity initiatives through the Equity Alliance

to health equity initiatives through the Equity Alliance $3.2 million donated to improve mental well-being for Florida residents

to improve mental well-being for Florida residents 2.12% reduction in disparate health outcomes for Black Florida Blue members

reduction in disparate health outcomes for Black Florida Blue members $250,000 awarded to alleviate social isolation and loneliness in Puerto Rico

to alleviate social isolation and loneliness in 52.9 million meals supplied as part of food security programs

supplied as part of food security programs 20% diverse supplier spend achieved across GuideWell companies, exceeding its annual target of 14%

achieved across GuideWell companies, exceeding its annual target of 14% 48.7% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 2017

The GuideWell Board of Directors is responsible for providing oversight and direction for GuideWell's business and community impact strategies, setting specific metrics in consultation with external subject matter experts, and ensuring accountability across the organization.

The GuideWell enterprise includes Florida Blue, the leading health insurance company in Florida, and Triple-S Management, a leading health care services company in Puerto Rico.

For more information and to view the full report, visit www.guidewell.com/impact-report.

About GuideWell

GuideWell comprises Florida's Blue Cross Blue Shield plan, Florida Blue, which is the leading health insurer in Florida; Triple-S Management, Puerto Rico's Blue Cross Blue Shield plan and a leading health care services company on the island; GuideWell Health, a portfolio of clinical delivery organizations; PopHealthCare and its value-based national medical group Emcara Health; GuideWell Source, which provides administrative services to federal health care programs; and WebTPA, a market leading administrator of self-funded employer health plans. The company holds majority or significant interests in a range of health solutions companies including Lucet, a behavioral health care company that provides technology-enabled support to payers, providers, and health plan members. Through a joint venture with Keralty, a multinational health business group with more than 40 years of global experience, GuideWell is expanding care delivery across Florida through more than 48 Sanitas direct care delivery locations.

GuideWell serves 38.5 million people across 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, including more than 6 million individuals in Florida.

For additional information visit www.GuideWell.com. For the latest news and content, visit the GuideWell Newsroom, and follow GuideWell on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram @LifeAtGuideWell; and X (formerly Twitter) @_GuideWell.

SOURCE GuideWell
Partnership focused on long-term recovery efforts in Puerto Rico following hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017

ATLANTA, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Habitat for Humanity International and AbbVie, a research-based global biopharmaceutical company, announced today the completion of their successful five-year partnership that supported the global housing nonprofit organization's long-term disaster recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.

In 2018, AbbVie announced a $50 million donation to help Habitat address critical shelter needs across Puerto Rico in response to the devastation of hurricanes Irma and Maria. The funds donated by AbbVie enabled Habitat to work directly with hurricane-affected families and communities to strengthen and improve access to housing for more than 19,000 people through home repairs and new construction, workforce training, household and community capacity building and assistance with clearing property titles

"AbbVie is committed to supporting the unmet needs of communities and driving resiliency," said Claudia Carravetta, President, AbbVie Foundation and VP Corporate Responsibility & Global Philanthropy, AbbVie. "We are grateful we could partner with Habitat for Humanity to fund the repair of homes, support construction workforce development, and enable affordable and safe housing for communities across Puerto Rico."

Hurricanes Maria and Irma caused unprecedented damage to homes across the island. With AbbVie's support, Habitat completed more than 800 construction projects in 22 municipalities, including Adjuntas, Cabo Rojo, Jayuya, Patillas, Ponce, and San Juan. The projects included 776 home repairs and 29 new home construction and rehabilitations, with 10 additional multi-family rehabbed units to be completed by the end of the summer.

According to the Puerto Rico Planning Society, it was estimated that 260,000 homes, representing 1.3 million people, were built without clear title or proper permits at the time of the hurricanes, leaving residents to face significant barriers to home repairs or receiving other aid. The funding from AbbVie enabled Habitat to work with the Puerto Rican government and local legal aid organizations to develop long-term housing solutions that would help families obtain appropriate legal documentation to their land. Through the partnership, more than 600 families received legal services to clear their title or enable them to provide formal proof of ownership.

Following the destruction of the 2017 hurricanes, the island needed to increase its construction industry workforce to support rebuilding efforts. With the support of AbbVie, Habitat for Humanity Puerto Rico established the Habitat Builds Puerto Rico workforce program, a five-week program that provides hands-on training to students entering the construction field to help rebuild homes and communities. Students receive instruction on plumbing, masonry, electrical work, carpentry, measurements and blueprints, health and safety, and receive career counseling. As of November 2023, 385 students have graduated from the program.

"Over six years ago the island of Puerto Rico was devastated by hurricanes Irma and Maria, leaving millions of people and their families in unthinkable and vulnerable situations," said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. "Habitat for Humanity has a strong track-record of providing long-term disaster recovery support to communities, but we know we cannot do it alone. Our five-year partnership with AbbVie demonstrated what a true and successful collaboration between the nonprofit sector, the private sector and the public sector looks like, and we are proud of the achievements we've made to help Puerto Ricans and their families build back stronger and more resilient than before. We are grateful to AbbVie for their support of our work and our mission of building homes, communities, and hope."

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
IBHS research-based designation program provides added protection to reduce a home's risk of ember ignition



PARADISE, Calif., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) today commended Habitat for Humanity of Butte County (HFHBC)  one of the primary organizations rebuilding in Paradise, CA, following the 2018 Camp Fire  for announcing it will build all future homes in the community to IBHS's Wildfire Prepared Home Plus standard.

Based on the latest wildfire research, Wildfire Prepared Home allows homeowners to demonstrate they have taken a series of actions shown to meaningfully reduce a home's wildfire risk. While the Town of Paradise adopted Wildfire Prepared Home into its ordinance for new construction in 2022, the local Habitat has committed to build to the program's Plus designation level, taking additional mitigation actions that reduce the risk of home ignition from flame and heat exposure, as well as embers.

"Building to the IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home Plus designation provides additional peace of mind and safety for our Habitat homeowners," says HFHBC Executive Director Nicole Bateman. "Wildfire Prepared Home Plus helps our fellow neighbors and the Town of Paradise. We are grateful for our funding partners who support these additional building efforts."

Today's announcement was made at the home of Bradly Reinhart, who has stayed in the community with his family while working toward a new home after his apartment building was destroyed by the Camp Fire.

"Our current living conditions are challenging for our family of five," says Reinhart. "We lack a proper kitchen, relying solely on a microwave for cooking, which forces us to eat out frequently, straining our finances. While it may sound strange to some, I am most excited about having a kitchen in our new home. The ability to prepare meals and bring my children and me closer through home-cooked dishes fills me with excitement."

HFHBC plans to build as many as eight homes in Paradise this year to the Wildfire Prepared Home Plus standard.

"This is another example of a non-profit leading the way on resilient construction," says IBHS Chief Product Officer Alister Watt. "Making a home resistant to wildfire damage is not only achievable; it is also affordable."

HFHBC estimates building to the designation's Plus features adds about $3/square foot to the cost of a new home. The nonprofit partnered with The Home Depot Foundation and State Farm for grant funding to cover the incremental cost.

"The Home Depot Foundation is dedicated to supporting communities impacted by natural disasters in the immediate aftermath and in the years to come," said Sean Vissar, manager of strategic partnerships for The Home Depot Foundation. "We know that recovery takes time and we're committed to being there for the long-haul. As we help rebuild in the wake of disasters, we are putting an increased focus on fortification and mitigation efforts, ensuring that we're building communities back stronger and better prepared to withstand future disasters."

IBHS research used to develop Wildfire Prepared Home program shows homeowners can reduce the risk of ember ignition by addressing vulnerabilities in three areas of the home  the roof, exterior features including vents and the five-foot buffer around the structure. Wildfire Prepared Home Plus adds protection against radiant heat and direct flame threats.

Most American homes have a Class A roof, meeting that requirement for designation. Homes also need to have at least six inches of vertical, noncombustible clearance at the base of exterior walls and ember-resistant vents to prevent embers from entering the structure. To protect the home from wind-blown embers, a five-foot buffer around a home must be free of combustible materials  including all vegetation, groundcover and overhanging branches. Building to the program's Plus level is commonly achieved in new construction or after extensive home renovations and includes enclosing eaves and upgrading to fire-resistant windows.

Currently available in California, homeowners can review the Wildfire Prepared Home homeowner guide and take a free online assessment at www.wildfireprepared.org to see if their home meets the designation's requirements before applying and paying the $125 fee, which covers the cost of an inspection. Paradise residents are eligible to have their application fee reimbursed from a $10,000 grant IBHS provided to the Town of Paradise.

For the past two years, Paradise has been the fastest-growing community in California as the area rebuilds relatively quickly after California's deadliest and most destructive wildfire destroyed more than 18,000 structures and killed 85 people.

Since the Camp Fire, Habitat for Humanity of Butte County has rebuilt 17 homes in Paradise and expects that number to grow to 23 by the end of the year.

About the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS)

The IBHS mission is to conduct objective, scientific research to identify and promote effective actions that strengthen homes, businesses and communities against natural disasters and other causes of loss. Learn more at ibhs.org.

About Wildfire Prepared Home

Wildfire Prepared Home is the first-ever wildfire mitigation designation program. Based on the latest wildfire research conducted by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), it offers California homeowners a path to take the system of science-based actions shown to meaningfully reduce a home's wildfire risk. Learn more at wildfireprepared.org.

About Habitat for Humanity of Butte County (HFHBC):

Established in 1993, Habitat for Humanity of Butte County is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit, and one of more than 1,500 local Habitat for Humanity affiliates in the United States that work with local volunteers to build safe affordable homes with eligible families. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers, work 250 sweat equity hours, and purchase a home with a low-interest affordable mortgage.

HFHBC has provided a path to homeownership for over 51 families, 17 since the Camp Fire, and revitalized many Butte County neighborhoods, creating safe and vibrant communities where families can prosper, and children can thrive. The affiliate also has a ReStore located at 220 Meyers St., Chico, open Tues.-Sat. Everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. To learn more, visit buttehabitat.org.

SOURCE Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety
While consumers' desire for luxury is at an all-time high, their purchasing drivers are harder to decipher, making growth more complex to achieve.

PARIS, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Today, BETC Havas unveiled the latest edition of its Prosumer Report, "The Luxury Issue," discussing the economic changes that have affected the luxury goods market and the steps marketers can take to continue its growth. The global luxury market will continue to grow, propelled in part by indulgence-minded millennials and Gen Zs. The Global luxury brands, however, will need to adapt to keep up with these seismic shifts.

BETC Havas conducts its global proprietary Prosumer studies several times per year, polling more than 13,000 people across 33 markets, including Brazil, China, France, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. As today's leading consumers and market drivers, Prosumers influence the brand choices and consumption behaviors of others.

Specifically, "The Luxury Issue" surveyed 1,650 aspirational luxury consumers who have spent an average of $2,000 a year in luxury items in nine priority markets: China, France, Germany, Japan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Key findings highlight the effects of the post-pandemic era when luxury goods must compete once more with restaurants and travel for discretionary spending priority.

100% of Gen Z Prosumers asserted that luxury items are essential, a stark contrast to the mere 50% acknowledgement from their boomer counterparts.

80% of Prosumers agreed that a luxury brand's timeless appeal is a key determinant of its worth.

60% of Prosumers defined luxury as a delicate balance between continuous creativity and timeless allure.

"The biggest challenge for brands is growing and enriching their cultural auras without stretching too thin," said Clement Boisseau and Sebastien Houdusse, Global Chief Strategy Officers, BETC Havas. "There's a fine line between inclusivity and oversaturation. Our job as marketers is to ensure our clients are the brands that claim that hefty slice of cake, and that means helping them navigate shifting consumer trends and preferences."

"The Luxury Issue" focuses on four pathways for marketers' success.

ALL HAIL THE PRODUCTAND WHAT IT REPRESENTS. 44% of Prosumers attributed motivations for purchasing luxury items to the product itselfthe allure of branding, strategic positioning, and celebrity associations all emerge as pivotal factors in a product's ability to stand out.

44% of Prosumers attributed motivations for purchasing luxury items to the product itselfthe allure of branding, strategic positioning, and celebrity associations all emerge as pivotal factors in a product's ability to stand out. STEPPING OUTSIDE THE GILDED CAGE: A DOUBLE-EDGED (DIAMOND-ENCRUSTED) SWORD. 70% of Prosumers held the luxury industry accountable for its impact on the global climate, but only 50% believed luxury brands should take a stance on social issues even if it means losing customers.

70% of Prosumers held the luxury industry accountable for its impact on the global climate, but only 50% believed luxury brands should take a stance on social issues even if it means losing customers. NEW PATHS OF ACCESS. The secondhand market for luxury goods is boomingnot only because it represents sometimes the only way to access rare items, but because secondhand items drive more desirability. 50% of Prosumers declared they prefer secondhand items because they have more stories and heritage.

The secondhand market for luxury goods is boomingnot only because it represents sometimes the only way to access rare items, but because secondhand items drive more desirability. 50% of Prosumers declared they prefer secondhand items because they have more stories and heritage. PUSHING A NEW FRONTIER. There is an enduring link between luxury and the worlds of culture and the arts, with luxury brands expected to serve as cultural patrons financially supporting institutions such as theaters, concert halls, and art museums.

Boisseau and Houdusse added: "The desirability of luxury remains robust and will continue to growand yet, its drivers are changing. The new luxury audience craves the age-old elements of timelessness, craft fetishism, and brand heritage, but delivered in a digital-savvy way and via up-to-the-moment collaborations."

The report comes just a month after the launch of Maison BETC, a strategic and creative agency based in New York and dedicated to luxury, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands in the United States. Bringing its expertise from Paris, the shop carries a reputation with iconic brands like LVMH, Lacoste, and Boucheron.

To learn more, follow Havas on Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Havas

Founded in 1835 in Paris, Havas is one of the world's largest global communications networks, with more than 22,000 people in over 100 countries sharing one single mission: to make a meaningful difference to brands, businesses, and people. Havas has developed a fully integrated model through its 70+ Havas Villages around the world, covering all communication activities. The teams of the three business units, Havas Creative Network, Havas Media Network, and Havas Health & You, work together with agility and in perfect synergy to offer tailor-made, innovative solutions to clients who support them in their positive transformation. Havas is committed to building a diverse culture where everybody feels they belong and can be themselves and thrive. Havas integrated into Vivendi, a global leader in media, entertainment, and communications, in December 2017.

SOURCE Havas Worldwide, LLC
Building Better Caregivers provides peer-to-peer education and emotional support through a free online program for unpaid family and friend caregivers

LOS ANGELES, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Canary Health, a leader in peer-led digital therapeutics, today announced a collaboration with Health Net , one of California's most experienced health plans and a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation, to provide an evidence-based, online, six-week, peer-to-peer education and support program for caregivers. The Building Better Caregivers (BBC) program digitally supports caregivers to improve their and care recipients' outcomes. The program is available to commercial and marketplace members, including all employees at companies who offer Health Net coverage as an option, regardless of which health plan the employee ultimately selects.

This collaboration illustrates Health Net and Canary Health's commitment and support of the health and wellbeing of unpaid caregivers who are caring for a friend or family members with dementia, memory problems, chronic health conditions or serious injuries. Interested caregivers who qualify can sign up here.

"The role of caregivers is not only vital, but irreplaceable." said Commercial Officer at Health Net, Colin Havert. Post this

"The role of caregivers is not only vital, but irreplaceable, as they provide the kind of personalized, compassionate care that often transcends the capabilities of even the most sophisticated medical technologies," said Commercial Officer at Health Net, Colin Havert. "Recognizing, supporting, and empowering caregivers is a key step towards creating a holistic, robust and truly caring health care system. We are proud to collaborate with Canary Health to offer this free support for these selfless individuals."

More than 19,000 family caregivers have engaged in Canary Health's Building Better Caregivers program. Participants, in both research and real-world offerings of BBC have reported:

Improved ability to support their loved ones struggling with chronic health and/or mental health condition; and

Increased confidence to accomplish goals important to their health and to their roles as caregivers; and

Reduced stress, better health behaviors and more positive outcomes for their care partners.

"Forty-nine percent of caregivers say their mental health has suffered, and the CDC reports caregivers are at an increased risk for having multiple chronic diseases as they may neglect their own personal health needs," said Katy Plant, MPH, General Manager at Canary Health. "Left unsupported, caregivers themselves are more likely to become patients, further straining an already strained healthcare system. We applaud Health Net's commitment to being in the vanguard of the growing movement to support this vital resource which forms the foundation of healthcare."

The BBC program includes methods to improve caregiver's health by offering strategies to support managing emotions, stress and difficult care-partner behaviors. It also provides caregivers with resources to support problem solving, goal setting and resource identification. The program emphasizes the importance of clear communication with health professionals, navigating healthcare systems, managing medications and planning for the future.

"Family caregivers play many roles in the care for their loved ones, which compound the physical and financial strain on themselves, their care recipient, the healthcare system, and our economy. This often leads to absenteeism at work, and eventually many are forced to leave the workforce." says Chairman of the Board and Chief Medical Officer at Canary Health, Neal Kaufman, MD, MPH. "By offering the Building Better Caregivers program broadly to their population, Health Net is investing to improve the health outcomes of the caregiver population and the care partner, while decreasing absenteeism and attrition for the employers that carry Health Net as a benefit option."

By leveraging the power of peers, the Building Better Caregivers program offers participants the opportunity to learn from others and from trained facilitators that currently are, or have been, caregivers themselves.

Canary Health is available to more than 500,000 Health Net members who are covered via their employer or Covered California.

Organizations that would like to learn more about the BBC program can email [email protected]. Eligible caregivers can learn more and register to participate here.

The program is also available in Spanish.

About Canary Health

Canary Health, a leader in peer-led digital therapeutics, offers evidence-based programs that empower caregivers and individuals with chronic conditions to better self-manage their health and their lives. Since 2013, Canary Health has worked to reach unpaid caregivers to provide the Building Better Caregivers program nationally to caregivers of sick and wounded veterans from all eras, as well as non-veteran caregivers. We work with the largest healthcare organizations in North America to offer our programs, including health plans, employers, health systems, and public health departments. Building Better Caregivers is on the list of Best Practice Caregiving for family caregivers certified by the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging and the Family Caregiving Alliance. Available in English and Spanish.

About Health Net

Founded in California more than 40 years ago, Health Net, a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation, believes that every person deserves a safety net for their health, regardless of age, income, employment status or current state of health. Today, we provide health plans for individuals, families, businesses of every size and people who qualify for Medi-Cal or Medicare. Together with our 90,000 network providers, Health Net serves three million members across the state. We also offer access to substance abuse programs, behavioral health services, employee assistance programs and managed health care products related to prescription drugs. We make these health plans and services available through Health Net, LLC and its subsidiaries: Health Net of California, Inc., Health Net Life Insurance Company and Health Net Community Solutions, Inc. These entities are wholly owned subsidiaries of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), a leading healthcare enterprise committed to transforming the health of the communities we serve, one person at a time. Health Net employs more than 6,300 people in California who work at one of five regional Talent Hub offices. For more information, visit www.HealthNet.com.

Media Contacts:

Canary Health

Mary Barbato

[email protected]

Health Net

Michelle Jelacic

[email protected]

SOURCE Canary Health
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hepatitis B and C Diagnostics Market by Type, Disease Type, and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2023-2027 report has been published by Technavio. The market is set for substantial growth between 2023 and 2027, with an estimated increase of USD 2,055.79 million, driven by a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.12%. This surge is attributed to several factors, including heightened demand for molecular diagnostics, streamlined diagnostic processes in healthcare, and the rising popularity of point-of-care (POC) diagnostics.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Hepatitis B and C Diagnostics Market 2023-2027

Download A PDF Sample Report

Key Drivers Fueling Market Expansion:

The growing demand for molecular diagnostics, especially in the diagnosis of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), serves as a significant driver for market growth. With approximately 600 hospital laboratories and 200 independent laboratories globally performing high-volume testing, there's a notable need for automated molecular diagnostic platforms to simplify sample preparation and facilitate accurate diagnoses.

Trends Reshaping Diagnostic Landscape:

A prominent trend in the market is the increasing demand for biomarker-based tests, which detect the presence or absence of diseases. Technological advancements in proteomics, nucleic acid expression, and genome sequencing have paved the way for the emergence of molecular biomarkers, leading to the development of sophisticated assays. This trend is expected to replace conventional drug therapeutics and drive revenue growth from personalized test devices.

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Challenges Hindering Market Growth:

Despite the promising outlook, the market faces challenges, including low penetration of HBV and HCV diagnostic tests. A significant portion of individuals with these infections remains undiagnosed, primarily due to lack of awareness, inadequate tools, and delivery issues. Furthermore, the high cost of diagnostics, complex treatment regimens, and absence of government policies pose hurdles to market expansion.

Major Market Players:

Leading companies in the hepatitis B and C diagnostics market, such as Abbott Laboratories, Bio Rad Laboratories Inc., and Roche Ltd., are employing various strategies like strategic alliances, mergers, and product launches to enhance their market presence.

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Fastest-Growing Segment:

The immunodiagnostics segment is poised for significant growth during the forecast period, owing to its established presence and high adoption rates for diagnosing HBV and HCV. Increased demand for quantification diagnostic tests and viral core antigen testing is expected to drive market growth in this segment.

Key Regional Insights:

North America is anticipated to contribute significantly to the global market, accounting for 47% of growth during the forecast period. Factors such as increasing blood transfusions and the adoption of point-of-care testing methods are driving market expansion in the region. Initiatives by non-profit and government institutes are also expected to fuel growth.

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Conclusion:

The hepatitis B and C diagnostics market is on a trajectory of robust growth, fueled by technological advancements, increasing demand for molecular diagnostics, and strategic initiatives by market players. Despite challenges, such as low penetration rates and complex treatment regimens, the market is poised for significant expansion, especially in regions like North America. As innovative breakthroughs continue to reshape the diagnostic landscape, stakeholders must adapt and collaborate to seize opportunities in this dynamic market.

Analyst Review

The immunoassay segment within the healthcare industry is witnessing significant advancements, particularly in diagnostic tools for detecting hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). With the growing emphasis on improving healthcare infrastructure globally, various industry players are actively contributing to the development and distribution of innovative technologies and services in this domain.

One notable player in this arena is Gilead Sciences, Inc, which has been instrumental in the development of diagnostic tests for hepatitis. Alongside Gilead, Vir Biotechnology, Inc has also made notable strides in enhancing diagnostic capabilities, especially in regions with limited healthcare access.

The hepatitis diagnostic test market has seen substantial growth, with key players such as Danaher Corporation, Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc, Qaigen Inc, Sysmex Corporation, and Siemens Healthineers contributing to its expansion. These companies offer a wide range of technology and services aimed at improving the accuracy and efficiency of hepatitis diagnosis.

Partnerships play a crucial role in advancing healthcare initiatives, and the Partnership for Health Advancement in Vietnam (HAIVN) stands out as a significant collaboration aimed at improving healthcare outcomes in Vietnam. This partnership involves renowned institutions such as Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, collectively working towards enhancing diagnostic capabilities and treatment options for hepatitis and other infectious diseases.

One notable technological advancement in this field is the Elecsys HCV Duo immunoassay, developed by Roche Diagnostics, which has revolutionized hepatitis C diagnosis by enabling simultaneous detection of antibodies and antigens associated with the virus.

In terms of market size, the hepatitis diagnostic test market is valued in the billions of USD, reflecting the growing demand for accurate and reliable diagnostic solutions worldwide.

Market trends indicate a shift towards more comprehensive diagnostic approaches, incorporating molecular biology techniques alongside traditional immunoassays for improved sensitivity and specificity.

Within the competitive landscape, companies such as Abbott Laboratories, BioMerieux SA, Hologic Inc, MedMira Inc, and Grifols SA are actively competing to expand their market presence and offer innovative diagnostic solutions for hepatitis and other infectious diseases.

Overall, the immunoassay segment within the healthcare industry continues to evolve rapidly, driven by technological advancements, strategic partnerships, and a growing focus on improving healthcare infrastructure and access globally.

For more insights on the market - Download A PDF Sample Report

Market Overview

The immunoassay segment within the hepatitis diagnostic test market is witnessing substantial growth, with key players like Gilead Sciences, Inc. and Vir Biotechnology, Inc. pioneering innovative diagnostic tools for HBsAg detection. Companies such as Danaher Corporation, Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc., and Qaigen Inc. are actively contributing to the healthcare infrastructure by developing advanced immunoassay technologies. Public Health Agency of Canada and Pan American Health Organization are pivotal in shaping regulatory frameworks and fostering collaboration in this domain. Sysmex Corporation also plays a crucial role in providing cutting-edge solutions for hepatitis diagnosis. With concerted efforts from industry players and regulatory bodies, the immunoassay segment continues to drive advancements in hepatitis diagnostics, ensuring better public health outcomes.

For more insights on the market - Download A PDF Sample Report

Related Reports:

The human combination vaccines market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.13% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 6,046.98 million . The rise in cases of infectious diseases notably drives the market growth, although factors such as the incompatibility of vaccine components may impede the market growth.

is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.13% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by . The rise in cases of infectious diseases notably drives the market growth, although factors such as the incompatibility of vaccine components may impede the market growth. The medical diagnostics market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.15% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 74.58 billion . The high prevalence of infectious diseases is notably driving the market growth, although factors such as the lack of trained laboratory technicians may impede the market growth.

Table of contents:

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 US

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
BOSTON, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Horvath & Tremblay, one of the most active and successful Investment Real Estate Brokerage firms in the U.S., has hired veteran broker Mark Taylor as the firm enters the Philadelphia market. Mark brings with him over 35 years of commercial real estate brokerage experience.

Mark has an extensive track record in the industry, having brokered over $3.5 billion in investment properties across 42 states. Previously Senior Managing Director Investments at a national brokerage, he has established himself as a top agent in the investment real estate sales space, receiving numerous awards for his accomplishments.

Horvath & Tremblay's entry into Philadelphia marks the first new market for the firm in 2024, coming at the heels of a successful year in 2023, which saw the firm continue to execute on its overall strategic growth plan. Horvath & Tremblay opened three new offices  New York City; Tampa, Florida; and Bethesda, Maryland. Horvath & Tremblay is headquartered in Boston, MA and has a total of thirteen offices across the United States.

Horvath & Tremblay is one of the most active and successful Investment Real Estate Brokerage firms in the United States. The company's advisors specialize in the sale of single tenant net-lease, multi-tenant retail, apartment and mixed-use properties, and have market pacing experience successfully structuring sale lease-back programs, portfolio dispositions, and 1031 exchanges. The firm is dedicated to being the preferred source of information and expertise in the marketplace for private investors, developers, institutions, and industry professionals. For more information, please visit horvathtremblay.com.

Media Contact:

Joshua Velez

phone | (781) 776-4009

email | [email protected]

SOURCE Horvath & Tremblay
Hyundai Hope On Wheels announces a new $26 million commitment to pediatric cancer research in its 26 th year

With this new funding, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has reached a lifetime giving milestone of a quarter-billion dollars ( $250 million ) since 1998

Hyundai Hope On Wheels announces newest National Youth Ambassador, Emmy Cole , to join fellow ambassador Raynie Clark

NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Hope On Wheels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established by Hyundai Motor America, will award $26 million in research and support grants this year to medical institutions nationwide. With this commitment, the organization reaches a lifetime giving milestone of a quarter-billion dollars as part of its 26th anniversary. Since 1998, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has become one of the leading pediatric cancer charities in America, funding innovative research with the hope of finding a cure and improving outcomes for children affected by the disease.

Hyundai Hope On Wheels National Youth Ambassadors Emmy Cole and Raynie Clark are photographed on March 10, 2024 (Photo/Hyundai)

"We are proud to have reached this incredible milestone for Hyundai Hope On Wheels, as it truly speaks to the commitment of Hyundai Motor America and its dealers to the cause of ending childhood cancer," said Kevin Reilly, vice chairman of the Hyundai Hope On Wheels Board of Directors, and president of Alexandria Hyundai. "Over the past 26 years, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has fueled cutting-edge research and partnered with doctors and researchers who are equally as dedicated to saving lives and giving hope to people who need it most. Looking ahead, we are honored to continue this fight until we find a cure."

In 2024, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will surpass a lifetime total donation of $250 million in support of more than 1,300 research and programmatic grants to over 175 hospitals and research institutions. Hyundai Hope On Wheels awards three categories of grants to researchers at eligible Children's Oncology Group (COG) member institutions, whose work improves outcomes, treatments, and support for children diagnosed with cancer.

Hyundai Hope On Wheels' commitment includes $5 million specifically dedicated to survivorship programs. As the survival rate for young cancer patients increases, so does the need to ensure that they can lead a life of opportunity and well-being. This focus on survivorship will be used to bolster initiatives such as long-term care plans, medical records access, and telehealth support.

"Research is the cornerstone of our work and is fundamental to finding a cure for all children with cancer," said Dr. Dan Wechsler, a long-standing member of the Hyundai Hope On Wheels Medical Advisory Committee. "Hyundai Hope On Wheels grants help researchers make new discoveries, develop less invasive treatments, and move us closer towards that goal. The addition of survivorship support greatly complements Hope On Wheels' long-time dedication to advancing research, because as more children survive from this disease, the greater the need will be for protecting their health and enhancing care throughout their life."

New National Youth Ambassador

Emmy Cole, an 11-year-old from outside Seattle, Washington, was announced as the newest National Youth Ambassador from a nationwide search. Throughout the year, Emmy will travel with her fellow National Youth Ambassador, Raynie Clark, to children's hospitals to share their personal stories of hope and courage and help spread awareness of the fight against pediatric cancer. Raynie was selected as the 2023-2025 National Youth Ambassador, while Emmy will serve as the 2024-2026 ambassador. Learn more about Emmy's and Raynie's inspirational stories on the Hyundai Hope On Wheels website.

Later this year, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will visit children's hospitals across the nation to present Hope On Wheels grant awards. These ceremonies will culminate in September, National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, during which Hyundai Hope On Wheels will bring its partners together in Washington, D.C. to honor its 26th anniversary and share more about its expanding vision for the future.

Hyundai Hope On Wheels

Hyundai Hope On Wheels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is committed to finding a cure for childhood cancer. Launched in 1998, Hyundai Hope On Wheels provides grants to eligible institutions nationwide that are pursuing critical research aimed at improving treatments and saving lives. Hyundai Hope On Wheels is one of the largest nonprofit funders of pediatric cancer research in the country. Primary funding for Hyundai Hope On Wheels comes from Hyundai Motor America and its more than 830 U.S. dealers. In 2024, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will surpass a lifetime total donation of $250 million in support of more than 1,300 childhood cancer research grants to over 175 hospitals and research institutions.

SOURCE Hyundai Hope On Wheels
"The refreshed 2025 Tucson SUV expands the appeal of our full-spectrum eco-powertrain approach, offering internal combustion, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models in a popular compact SUV design," said Jose Munoz, president and global COO, Hyundai Motor Company and president and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America. "With all-wheel drive offered on gas and hybrid models, customers can enjoy all-road, all-weather capability coupled with outstanding efficiency and an attractive variety of trims, including outdoor-focused XRT and sporty N Line models."

Exterior design enhancements

The 2025 Tucson presents an evocative, bold appearance with 'Parametric Dynamics' design language and kinetic, jewel-like surface detailing that ensures its distinct identity in today's crowded SUV marketplace. For 2025, revised exterior styling imbues Tucson with a more planted, substantial look thanks to a new grille, redesigned front and rear bumper fascia, and an updated daytime running light signature. New alloy wheels, anodized aluminum badging, and a 75-mm longer rear wiper blade for improved visibility round out these purposeful changes.

The front fascia styling enhancements incorporate stronger vertical grille elements for a more rugged, stable appearance. Tucson's iconic daytime running light signature has been simplified from ten lighting areas to eight larger units for an even bolder presence, day, or night. New bridge-type raised roof side rails add capability and ruggedness to the outdoors-oriented XRT.

Redesigned interior and infotainment

The 2025 Tucson's interior may feature the biggest upgrades of all, thanks to a more open-feeling design and a higher-tech, yet easier-to-use infotainment interface. This cabin glow-up incorporates a redesigned panoramic curved display that integrates an available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an enlarged 12.3-inch infotainment display. A redesigned center stack includes the addition of supplementary knobs and switchgear for frequent-use driver controls including audio volume and tuning, along with select HVAC controls for greatly improved ergonomics. The center console, steering wheel and door panel accents have also been redesigned for both fresh appeal and enhanced usability. A new dashboard tray located above the glovebox adds even more storage space for front-seat passengers.

On premium models with shift-by-wire function, the transmission is now controlled by a column-mounted gear selector, liberating more usable space in the center console area. A larger, 12.3-inch hoodless infotainment touchscreen has been added to all trims. This system features faster processing speeds, enhanced colors, and sharper graphics along with more intuitive layouts for improved ease of use. The wireless device quick-charging pad (15-watt) has also moved to a more convenient driver access position.

For enhanced passenger comfort, Limited models include acoustic laminated front side windows to reduce interior noise. Available heated steering wheel and rear seat heaters now offer additional temperature settings for more precise control and comfort. XRT models add XRT debossing on the front seatbacks.

Human-centric technology integration

For 2025, the new Tucson can now make convenient updates to various vehicle systems, including powertrain, safety, multimedia, and mapping systems (when equipped with navigation) via over-the-air (OTA) updates.1

Tucson's available integrated memory system includes both power driver's seat and outside mirror settings for greater convenience. Front passengers now have access to USB-C data and charging ports with improved 27-watt charging capability. Rear passengers also receive standard USB-C charging ports. For 2025, Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration are now standard on all Tucson models. What's more, a new 12-inch color Head-Up Display (HUD) with premium graphics is also available. Impressively, the HUD even displays turn-by-turn directions via CarPlay and Android Auto when equipped with the onboard navigation system. Further, a newly available fingerprint authentication sensor on the instrument cluster provides a new level of security and convenience. Its biometric authentication can allow the driver to securely start and drive the Tucson without a smart key.

Tucson's proximity-key entry with push-button start is now standard, while available Digital Key 2 Premium provides convenient, key-fob-free vehicle access. This system allows door locking, unlocking and vehicle engine start all without needing to take your phone out of your pocket or purse using Bluetooth Low Energy, Advanced NFC, and Ultra-Wideband technologies. It even makes it easy to share temporary keys digitally with family, friends, or clients. In addition, SiriusXM satellite capable radio is standard and all Hyundai Bluelink+2 services are now offered complimentary with purchase. With Bluelink+ key safety and maintenance features, such as Auto Collision Assistance, SOS Assistance, Remote Diagnostics, Maintenance Reminders, over-the-air ECU updates and convenient vehicle remote features are available with no trial period, and for the life of the supporting technology and 4G LTE network. Hyundai Pay3, which enables paying for parking and fueling from inside the vehicle is available, as is a WiFi hotspot4 that can connect a total of five devices at once for full-family connectivity. The HVAC system now adds automatic fan ventilation after A/C system shutdown to help reduce condensation and odors caused by excessive humidity.

Enhanced safety

For 2025, Tucson adds Forward Attention Warning (FAW), which utilizes an infrared camera mounted on the steering column to help track the driver's eye gaze and monitor attention levels to help ensure safe driving. Available Smart Cruise Control 2 continually assesses driver alertness. If the driver is found to be unresponsive, the system can even help safely bring the vehicle to a stop, activating the hazard lights and the electronic parking brake once the vehicle is stopped. Additionally, rear outboard passenger seatbelts now feature standard pretensioners and load limiters.

Diverse Smartstream powertrain family line-up

The 2025 Tucson offers a Smartstream 2.5-liter, direct-injected and multi-port-injected gasoline engine as well as available 1.6-liter, direct-injected, turbocharged hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The Smartstream 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine boasts a generous 187 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 178 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm thanks to high-efficiency combustion. The eight-speed automatic transmission mated to the standard 2.5-liter engine provides quick and crisp shifts for an engaging and efficient driving experience.

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains

Tucson's hybrid models provide a balanced combination of fun-to-drive performance and excellent economy compared with some competitors' pure efficiency focus. 2025 Tucson hybrid and plug-in models now offer driver-adjustable levels of regenerative braking for improved control and comfort.

The Hybrid powertrain's 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine produces an estimated 178 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque, with an estimated 231 total hybrid system horsepower. This hybrid system also produces a total estimated 258 lb.-ft. of torque thanks to a powerful 47.7-kW electric motor (formerly 44.2 kW) and a 1.49-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Tucson Hybrid delivers its abundant power through a specially tuned six-speed automatic transmission for smooth, quiet, and efficient performance.

Plug-In Hybrid models feature a high-output 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four coupled with a specially tuned six-speed automatic transmission and a more powerful 72.0-kW electric motor (increased from 66.9 kW). Plug-in Hybrid total system output is rated at a robust 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. The Plug-In Hybrid battery is larger than the Hybrid pack, offering 13.8 kWh of lithium-ion power. Level 2 AC charging5 takes fewer than two hours to recharge the PHEV's battery using its 7.2-kW onboard charger.

Shared hybrid and plug-in hybrid technologies

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models include standard HTRAC all-wheel drive (AWD) to meet the needs of eco-minded buyers seeking enhanced capability in inclement weather and limited-traction situations. Driver-selectable HTRAC Normal, Sport, Snow, and (new for 2025) My Drive modes offer confident driver control in a wide range of conditions. Moreover, within the new My Drive sub-menu, a driver-selectable Baby Mode helps reduce the sharpness of initial acceleration, smoothing out driver inputs for a gentler acceleration feeling for passengers. This more serene experience helps reduce potential disturbances that may upset infants or pets. Additionally, a new Green Zone drive mode optimizes pure EV mode for use in urban zones with specific eco-focused requirements. The Sport setting gives Tucson a more agile feel by sending additional torque to the rear wheels for a sporty, dynamic experience.

e-Motion driving dynamics

Tucson Hybrid models feature Hyundai's e-Motion technology, which precisely applies electric motor torque control according to dynamic inputs and road conditions to improve cornering performance for heightened driver confidence and even more fun-to-drive dynamics.

Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company's Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (in development in Georgia), and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai's 835 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a recent economic impact report. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

Footnotes :





1 Requires active Bluelink subscription. 2 Bluelink+ is available to purchasers and lessees of 2024 and newer Bluelink-equipped Hyundai models. Not available on all models and trims. Bluelink+ requires an active Bluelink account subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Fees apply for map and multimedia over-the-air (OTA) updates after an initial three-year period of complementary updates. Three-year term starts from the new vehicle date of first use. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Bluelink services rely on digital wireless telecommunications technology outside of Hyundai's control. Bluelink is dependent on 4G LTE cellular networks controlled and maintained by third-party wireless carriers. If and when these networks change and/or discontinue service, or the underlying technology required to support Bluelink becomes obsolete, then the connected services will not work and Hyundai will be forced to cancel impacted subscription services. 3 Hyundai Pay is presently only available on select Hyundai models. Requires MyHyundai mobile app and an active Bluelink account, subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. For eligible vehicles, Hyundai Pay is included with Bluelink subscription at no additional cost. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Valid Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit card must be linked to MyHyundai account with Bluelink. Credit card eligibility and terms are determined by the card issuing bank. Accepted by participating merchants for off-street reserved parking only. Availability of such services may change over time and may vary by vehicle and geographic location. Additional merchant terms and fees may apply. Participating merchants may not operate in all locations. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Visit owners.hyundaiusa.com for more information. 4 Requires active data plan from Verizon and acceptance of Hyundai Motor America Connected Services Terms and Conditions. Coverage and service are not available in all areas. Wi-Fi hotspot is intended for passenger use only. Only use Wi-Fi and connected devices when safe to do so. See https://www.verizon.com/plans/connected-car/ for terms and conditions. 5 Estimated charging time is based on a Level 2 240V charger. Actual charging time varies based on a number of factors, including current battery charge level, output of the charging unit, vehicle and battery settings, battery temperature and outside temperature. Charger and cable not included.

SOURCE Hyundai Motor America
For the ninth year, MediaPost is naming its picks for top automotive marketers and agencies at the Marketing Automotive Conference taking place during the New York International Auto Show on March 27 at the Javits Center in New York. Hyundai's "Cautionary Tales" or "Viejos Cuentos" campaign has been hailed for its innovative approach and cultural resonance.

Hyundai "Cautionary Tales" IONIQ 5 and 6 Campaign TV Spot

"We're delighted to receive MediaPost's Best Multicultural Campaign award, which underscores Hyundai's dedication to dispelling misconceptions and promoting inclusivity within the EV landscape," stated Angela Zepeda, chief marketing officer, Hyundai Motor America. "To further ease EV adoption among Hispanic audiences, Hyundai is defying electric vehicle myths in a relatable way that emotionally resonates with prospective buyers by making the electrification journey accessible, convenient, and reliable."

"The jurors, including myself, were impressed with the intuitive approach that 'Cautionary Tales' took to addressing the problem of hesitation by Hispanic consumers when it comes to electric vehicles," said Tanya Gazdik, Automotive Editor at MediaPost and lead juror for the awards. "Getting consumers comfortable with the idea of purchasing an electric vehicle is a task facing all automakers and Hyundai has approached it thoughtfully and the company's sales numbers reflect that."

"We're immensely proud of the collaborative effort that led to the success of our 'Cautionary Tales' campaign," remarked Erik Thomas, director, experiential marketing, Hyundai Motor America. "By crafting narratives that resonate emotionally and culturally with Hispanic audiences, we are paving the way for EV adoption. With our award-winning IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, we aim to empower families and individuals with a confident and exhilarating driving journey that seamlessly integrates into their dynamic lifestyles."

Production house CANADA and director Miguel Campana filmed in Atlanta, Georgia in collaboration with Lopez Negrete's Chief Creative Officer Fernando Osuna and Executive Creative Director Alex Garcia. The campaign, aimed at Hispanic audiences, launched May 2, 2023, and included a :30 TV commercial, :15 online video, and digital and social media content.

Lopez Negrete Communications

Lopez Negrete Communications stands as one of the premier Hispanic-owned-and-operated, full-service agencies in the United States. The agency specializes in providing marketing services to corporations wishing to reach and engage with America's large and influential Hispanic consumer segment. Founded in 1985 by Alex and Cathy Lopez Negrete, the agency offers thought leadership and a full range of marketing, advertising, and communications services. The wide array of services includes strategic planning, brand strategy, creative and production, research and consumer insights, media planning and buying, digital/social/mobile marketing services, public relations, and promotions.

Hyundai Motor America

Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company's Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (in development in Georgia), and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai's 835 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a recent economic impact report. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

SOURCE Hyundai Motor America
MODESTO, Calif., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- California-based cannabis seed bank, I Love Growing Marijuana (ILGM), today announced the appointment of Ernst Rustenhoven as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Rustenhoven, formerly a consumer-focused venture capital investor, initiated his career in investment banking, honing his expertise in strategy and deal advisory for fast-growing e-commerce businesses. With over 15 years of experience, he brings a wealth of business acumen and a profound understanding of cultivating growth-oriented consumer brands to ILGM's leadership team.

"I am energized to join ILGM at what I view as an auspicious moment for both the legal cannabis industry and our company," said Ernst Rustenhoven, CEO of ILGM. "With the accelerated legalization of home cultivation, we've experienced increased consumer curiosity and demand for premium seeds and education. As CEO, my most immediate priority is ensuring we can offer our customers the best and latest seed genetics and supporting home growers throughout their growth journey."

Before joining ILGM, Rustenhoven served as an early-stage investor at the consumer-focused venture capital firm, Slingshot Ventures , based in Amsterdam. There, he spearheaded several of the fund's investments in high-growth consumer startups. Throughout his career, he served as a non-executive director on the boards of various companies.

Currently, Rustenhoven serves as a non-executive board director at Wasteless , a retail tech business based in Tel Aviv, and as an advisory member of the university-backed pre-seed venture capital fund Asif Ventures .

"Over the next few months, we'll unveil some exciting projects that cater to our customer base of both aspiring and expert home growers. I'm looking forward to sharing what's to come and taking ILGM to the next level," said Rustenhoven.

Rustenhoven holds a Master of Science degree in Business Economics from the University of Amsterdam. For more information on the company's new CEO, please visit: ILGM.com/blog

About I Love Growing Marijuana

I Love Growing Marijuana (ILGM) is a trusted online cannabis seed bank committed to providing top-quality seeds, expert guidance, and discreet service. Our diverse selection of premium seeds, coupled with exceptional customer support and educational resources, empowers growers of all levels to cultivate with confidence. With a focus on quality, privacy, and legal compliance, ILGM is your go-to destination for premium cannabis seeds and cultivation expertise. For more information, visit: ILGM.com

Media Contact:

Trailblaze for ILGM

[email protected]

SOURCE ILGM
Key Findings Include:

Average 2023 hourly rate for home health aide increased 5.2%

Hourly per visit nurse rate decreased 1.6% with facility prices mixed

Washington and New Hampshire most expensive states for home health aides

illumifin's comprehensive study provides insight which empowers consumers, insurers, and providers by benchmarking the prices of senior care.

WOODBURY, Minn., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- illumifin, the leading insurance administration and claims solution provider for long term care (LTC) insurance, has just released its 2023 Cost of Care study and comprehensive analysis. Now in its tenth year, this longitudinal study includes national, state and regional costs of various care services, spanning skilled nursing, adult day care, home health care and assisted living facilities.

illumifin's Cost of Care study gathers tens of thousands of data points from care providers nationwide, with results normalized by the company's in-house actuarial and data science teams. Insurers and financial services providers rely on this data for both forecasting and stakeholder education as well as informing customers and agents about national and regional cost variations. In addition, care providers benefit from understanding the market rates for services in their area. These insights are also accessible via illumifin's What Care Costs website, which offers interactive maps and projection tools to sort, rank and evaluate average costs of LTC services across the US.

illumifin's study found that the average hourly rate for a home health aide in 2023 was $30.62, an increase of 5.2 percent over the prior year. Meanwhile, the average per-visit rate for a registered nurse in 2023 was $147.72, a decrease of 1.6 percent over the prior year, potentially reflecting rates beginning to normalize post pandemic.

The research also shows facility prices were mixed. The average assisted living facility rates increased between 0.6 and 3.8 percent in 2023 depending on room type, reversing course from the pandemic where assisted living facility rates had been trending downward. However, skilled nursing facility rates experienced a small decrease in 2023 between 0.4 and 1.0 percent.

The most expensive states for home health aides were Washington and New Hampshire, whereas Mississippi and Louisiana were the least expensive. Meanwhile, the most expensive assisted living rates were found in New Hampshire and New Jersey, while the lowest assisted living prices were found in Alabama and Oklahoma.

"We are proud to leverage our 30 years of experience in senior care to provide actionable data for insurers, consumers, providers and financial institutions," said Peter Goldstein, illumifin's President and CEO. "Our focus remains on customer centric initiatives which assist in managing risk and planning for the future. Our Cost of Care survey has proven valuable to not only to our business partners but providing valuable knowledge to consumers and their families as they navigate the maze of service types when making care decisions."

The study, interactive tool and data are available for use by insurers, providers and financial services firms. For more information regarding illumifin's Cost of Care Study, please contact Jennifer Frost via email at [email protected].

About illumifin

illumifin provides third party administration and technology services to individual and group insurers. The company, launched in 2021, blends insurance industry knowledge, technology leadership and operational execution to prepare insurers for the digital future. illumifin is a diverse, passionate and empowered team of insurance specialists committed to the growth and success of its customers. With illumifin, there's a brighter future. Visit www.illumifin.com .

Contact: Chris Tofalli

Chris Tofalli Public Relations, LLC

914-834-4334

SOURCE illumifin
LOS ANGELES, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Judd Foundationa non-for-profit organization based in New York City and Marfa, Texas which preserves the work and legacy of artist Donald Juddtoday filed a federal lawsuit against reality television personality Kim Kardashian and Los Angeles-based design firm Clements Design over inauthentic furniture that Clements Design fabricated and sold to Ms. Kardashian for use in the office of her company, SKKN BY KIM.

In August 2022, Ms. Kardashian posted a video (with more than 3.7 million views) to her personal YouTube channel, which featured knockoff Donald Judd Furniture, a company of Judd Foundation. The designs included two of Donald Judd's most renowned designs: La Mansana Table (two tables) and Chair 84 (numerous chairs) that Ms. Kardashian falsely attributed to being "Donald Judd." Following the press coverage of the video, on August 15, 2022, Judd Foundation contacted Ms. Kardashian's representatives, who confirmed that the table and chairs were indeed fake. Clements Design knowingly fabricated and sold the fake designs. Judd Foundation's attempt to resolve this matter without litigation was met with delays and excuses from Ms. Kardashian and Clements Design. More than a year later, the video of Ms. Kardashian promoting fake furniture attributed to Donald Judd remains available on her YouTube page to millions of followers and the public at large.

Each authentic piece of Donald Judd furniture meets the exacting design, fabrication, and material specifications that Donald Judd established during his lifetime. The actions of Clements Design and Ms. Kardashianand their refusal to properly resolve this matter with Judd Foundationundermines Judd's legacy and impairs the Foundation's ability to control the quality and goodwill of his iconic designs.

"Donald Judd's furniture is an integral part of his legacy. As an artist's foundation, our primary mission is to protect and preserve his work," said Rainer Judd, President of Judd Foundation and daughter of the late artist. "Ms. Kardashian's furniture is irrefutably fake. The existence of inauthentic furniture undermines the integrity of his original work which includes specifications of design, craftsmanship, and materials. Today, Judd Foundation works directly with select fabricators to maintain the standards of quality he set for his furniture. This requires that all furniture that is made and sold with his name is made by Donald Judd Furniture."

"This case is about protecting the intellectual property rights of Judd Foundation, including its trademarks and copyrights," said Megan K. Bannigan, Partner at Debevoise & Plimpton and counsel to Judd Foundation. "The existence and promotion of fake Donald Judd furniture harms both consumers and Judd Foundation. The fake furniture has caused massive consumer confusion  with millions of Ms. Kardashian's followers being misled to believe that the furniture in Ms. Kardashian's office is real Donald Judd furniture. It also undermines Judd Foundation's ability to control the quality of the works created using Donald Judd's iconic designs and the goodwill that exists in those creations."

"If creators' works can simply be usurped with no repercussions and exploited by other people," added Ms. Judd, "what will be the protection for artists and designers to further create in the future?"

The complaint can be read here.

Judd Foundation is represented by Megan Bannigan of Debevoise & Plimpton, along with David Bernstein, Jared Kagan, Hannah Beattie, James Stramm, and Annie Seminara, and Rusty Selmont of Ervin Cohen & Jessup.

About Judd Foundation

Judd Foundation maintains and preserves Donald Judd's permanently installed living and working spaces, libraries, and archives in New York and Marfa, Texas. The Foundation promotes a wider understanding of Judd's artistic legacy by providing access to these spaces and resources and by developing scholarly and educational programs.

Judd Foundation is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

About Debevoise & Plimpton

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is a premier law firm with market-leading practices, a global perspective and strong New York roots. The Debevoise Intellectual Property Group is recognized by clients and adversaries alike as one of the strongest practices of its kind. Consistently placed in the top-tier by Chambers Global, the Intellectual Property Group enjoys a position of extraordinary prominence, described as "one of only a handful of practices in the United States unanimously hailed as among the very best" by World Trademark Review in 2024.

SOURCE Judd Foundation
Announces Strong Long-Term Growth & Return Algorithm with Organic Net Sales Growth Ahead of Market Growth and Adjusted EPS Growth in Mid-to-High Single Digits

Targets More Than $3 Billion in Gross Productivity Savings and Approximately $500 Million in Working Capital Savings

Commits to 100% Natural Forest Free Ambition Across Product Portfolio

DALLAS, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE: KMB) announced that today, Mike Hsu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and members of his executive leadership team are unveiling the next phase of the company's transformation, including a new operating model and key commercial initiatives designed to grow its brands and businesses at a faster pace than its categories.

"Over the past five years, our global team's dedication and strong execution have positioned us to fully leverage the scale we've built and to catapult Kimberly-Clark into its next chapter of growth," said Hsu. "We are building on the consumer centricity and commercial advantages we've established by moving to a more agile and focused operating structure that we are confident will help accelerate our proprietary pipeline of innovation in right-to-win spaces and improve our growth trajectory, profitability, and returns on investment. We have more than 150 years of history, transforming groundbreaking insights into innovative categories, with products that provide Better Care for a Better World. We are excited to build on the strength of that legacy as we drive for consistent, long-term value creation."

Hsu added, "Science and innovation are competitive advantages at Kimberly-Clark, and together they fuel our ability to meet the needs of today's consumers. Sustainability is a critical component of the Kimberly-Clark innovation strategy, and we are proud to announce our ambition to be 100% Natural Forest Free in all our products and to be more than mid-way to this goal by 2030."

The Kimberly-Clark Operating Model

The company will focus on driving a step-change in performance by sharpening its strategic focus through a new operating model that leverages three synergistic forces:

Accelerating Pioneering Innovation to capture significant growth available in its categories by investing in science and technology to satisfy unmet and evolving consumer needs. Kimberly-Clark will focus on growing 12 powerhouse brands that have #1 or strong #2 positions and drive more than 80% of the company's net sales in five, global daily-need spaces with a total addressable market of approximately $240 billion : Baby & Child Care, Feminine Care, Adult Care, Family Care, and Professional.

Optimizing its Margin Structure to deliver superior consumer propositions at every rung of the price-value ladder. The company will implement initiatives and deploy technology and data analytics designed to create a fast, adaptable, integrated supply chain with greater visibility that can deliver continuous improvement. The planned supply chain modernization is expected to generate more than $3 billion in gross productivity and $500 million in working capital savings that will be used to help fuel growth investments.

Wiring its Organization for Growth to drive agility, speed, and focused execution that extends the company's competitive advantages further into the future. In the coming months, the company plans to reorganize its operations into three business segments:

North America : A business that currently generates approximately $11 billion in sales annually and a 23% operating profit margin that will leverage its significant scale to amplify value creation, drive an end-to-end cost transformation, and accelerate innovation into fast-moving consumer need spaces through 11 powerhouse brands across consumer and professional channels. International Personal Care (IPC) : A segment with approximately $6 billion in sales annually and low-to-mid teens operating profit margins that is focused on three core categories  Baby & Child Care, Feminine Care and Adult Care. IPC is designed to drive strong growth and improved profitability by scaling a proven growth model, with focused investments in five Core Markets that make up approximately 60% of segment sales. In the 50 Enterprise Markets that make up the balance of the business, the company will seek to improve growth trajectories, profitability and returns on investment by optimizing routes-to-market while harmonizing and simplifying product portfolios. International Family Care and Professional (IFP) : A business that currently generates approximately $3.5 billion in sales annually and approximately 10% operating margins. IFP will bring together the company's international consumer tissue business with its international professional business to capture synergies and establish shared resources globally. The segment will focus on improving its business mix and profitability by growing six iconic brands in five large Family Care and five Professional markets while capturing significant margin potential by leveraging shared technology platforms, and efficiently deploying and scaling the best of its business.



These three new business segments will be supported by more efficient, world-class functions, including Research & Development, Marketing, Finance, Information Technology, and Human Resources. The company expects to complete its transition to the new organizational structure by the end of 2024. These actions are expected to generate approximately $200 million of selling, general and administrative savings in the next few years that will be available to invest back in the business.

100% Natural Forest-Free Ambition

Sustainability is a key pillar of Kimberly-Clark's innovation pipeline, with the company focused on delivering products with enhanced consumer benefits while striving to use less material and increasing the use of more sustainable material. Over the past decade, the company has explored an extensive array of alternative fiber options, investing significantly in developing more sustainable products. Based on progress against existing goals, Kimberly-Clark is setting a new ambition to be 100% Natural Forest Free across its product portfolio. The company expects to be more than halfway to this goal by 2030.

Long-Term Growth and Return Algorithm

Kimberly-Clark has set long-term growth and return targets that include:

Organic Net Sales growth ahead of market growth;

Adjusted Operating Profit growth in the mid-to-high single digits on a constant currency basis;

Adjusted EPS growth in mid-to-high single digits on a constant currency basis; and

Annual Free Cash Flow generation of at least $2 billion .

"We see a clear path to consistent growth and strong margin expansion as we sharpen our focus on areas of competitive advantage and where we believe we have the right to win," said Nelson Urdaneta, Chief Financial Officer. "Leveraging our strong innovation pipeline and go-to-market capabilities to drive growth, our new productivity programs to deliver efficiencies, and our capital priorities to support reinvestment and accelerate our strategic plan will support our ability to achieve our new long-term financial profile in the years ahead."

The company's capital priorities have not changed. These priorities include investing to accelerate organic growth with strong returns that will strengthen the company's market positions; growing the dividend while maintaining the company's single-A credit rating; evaluating strategic acquisitions that can deliver incremental growth and return opportunities; and allocating residual capital to share repurchases, to minimally offset dilution from equity incentive programs.

The company currently expects to incur approximately $1.5 billion in one-time restructuring and reorganization costs, split roughly into 50% in non-cash charges and 50% of cash expenses, over the next three years as it implements its plans.

2024 Outlook

The company noted that the outlook it provided in January is consistent with its new long-term growth and return targets. The company continues to expect to deliver a low-to-mid single-digit percentage increase in 2024 Organic Net Sales versus the prior year period, with growth in reported Net Sales forecast to reflect negative impacts of approximately 300 basis points from currency translation and 60 basis points from the Brazil Tissue divestiture. Adjusted Operating Profit is still expected to grow at a high single-digit to low double-digit rate on a constant-currency basis and Adjusted Earnings Per share are expected to grow at a high single-digit rate on a constant-currency basis versus the prior year period. Reported growth in Operating Profit and Earnings Per Share are still expected to be negatively impacted by approximately 400 basis points from currency translation.

This outlook reflects assumptions subject to change given the macro environment.

2024 Investor Day Presentation

The company is hosting its Investor Day in New York City today beginning at 9 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The event will also be webcast and accessible from the Events & Presentations section of www.kimberly-clark.com. A replay of the webcast and slides shown during the presentations will be available following the event through the same website.

About Kimberly-Clark

Kimberly-Clark (NYSE: KMB) and its trusted brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 175 countries. Fueled by ingenuity, creativity, and an understanding of people's most essential needs, we create products that help individuals experience more of what's important to them. Our portfolio of brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Scott, Kotex, Cottonelle, Poise, Depend, Andrex, Pull-Ups, GoodNites, Intimus, Plenitud, Sweety, Softex, Viva and WypAll, hold No. 1 or No. 2 share positions in approximately 70 countries. We use sustainable practices that support a healthy planet, build strong communities, and ensure our business thrives for decades to come. We are proud to be recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere for the fifth year in a row. To keep up with the latest news and to learn more about the company's 150-year history of innovation, visit kimberly-clark.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain matters contained in this news release concerning the outlook, anticipated financial and operating results, raw material, energy and other input costs, anticipated currency rates and exchange risks, including in Argentina and Turkiye, sources and uses of cash, charges and savings from the 2024 Global Transformation Initiative, growth initiatives, sustainability initiatives, product innovations, contingencies and anticipated transactions of the company constitute forward-looking statements and are based upon management's expectations and beliefs concerning future events impacting the company. In addition, many factors outside our control, including the risk that we are not able to realize the anticipated benefits of the Global Transformation Initiative, risks related to any delays in the timing for implementing the Global Transformation Initiative or potential disruptions to our business or operations as we execute on the Global Transformation Initiative, the war in Ukraine (including the related responses of consumers, customers and suppliers as well as sanctions issued by the U.S., the European Union, Russia or other countries), pandemics, epidemics, fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, prices and availability of our raw materials, supply chain disruptions, disruptions in the capital and credit markets, counterparty defaults (including customers, suppliers and financial institutions with which we do business), failure to realize the expected benefits or synergies from our acquisition and disposition activity, impairment of goodwill and intangible assets and our projections of operating results and other factors that may affect our impairment testing, changes in customer preferences, severe weather conditions, regional instabilities and hostilities (including the war in Israel), government trade or similar regulatory actions, potential competitive pressures on selling prices for our products, energy costs, our ability to maintain key customer relationships, as well as general economic and political conditions globally and in the markets in which we do business, could affect the realization of these estimates.

There can be no assurance that these future events will occur as anticipated or that the company's results will be as estimated. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update them. For a description of certain factors that could cause the company's future results to differ from those expressed in any such forward-looking statements, see Item 1A entitled "Risk Factors" in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This news release refers to the following financial measures that have not been calculated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., or GAAP, and are therefore referred to as non-GAAP financial measures:

Adjusted Operating Profit

Adjusted EPS

Free Cash Flow

Adjusted Operating Profit and Adjusted EPS consist of Operating Profit and Diluted Net Income Per Share, respectively, that in each case is adjusted for certain nonrecurring, infrequent, unusual or other items. Free Cash Flow consists of Cash Provided by Operations, less Capital Spending.

Each non-GAAP financial measure referenced in this news release is presented on a forward-looking basis. Kimberly-Clark does not provide a reconciliation of these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures on a forward-looking basis because it is unable to predict certain adjustment items without unreasonable effort. Please note that these items could be material to Kimberly-Clark's results calculated in accordance with GAAP.

This news release also includes forward-looking information regarding organic sales growth, which describes the impact of changes in volume, net selling prices and product mix on net sales. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates, acquisitions and exited businesses also impact the year-over-year change in net sales.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/648588/Kimberly_Clark_v1_Logo.jpg

[KMB-F]

SOURCE Kimberly-Clark Corporation
VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- KuCoin, a leading global crypto exchange, just announced a groundbreaking initiative - an airdrop $10 million in BTC and KCS to its users as a token of appreciation for their continued support. As the People's Exchange, KuCoin is committed to improving user experience and strengthening trust among its community. Outlining the motivations behind the initiative, Johnny Lyu, CEO of KuCoin issued a CEO letter to users and supporters of the leading crypto exchange.

Dear Users and Supporters of KuCoin,

I would like to express my gratitude to all KuCoin users, for your support, trust and companionship during the past few days, as well as the past 7 years. We will absolutely ensure the security of user assets as always and comply with regulations to fulfill our trust.

As everyone knows, KuCoin's journey has not been smooth sailing. Over seven years, we have faced numerous challenges, much like the tumultuous development of the entire crypto industry. Each time, as we weathered these ups and downs, doubts and concerns arose. However, staying true to our core beliefs and holding onto a positive vision for the industry, we have become stronger with each challenge overcome, earning the trust of more users and industry partners along the way.

From the beginning, KuCoin's mission has been to grow alongside the crypto industry and to drive global recognition, acceptance, and love for this sector. Our commitment to user value has always been our guiding principle. In the early days of October 2017, at the very early stage of KuCoin, we made the unprecedented decision in the industry to proactively acquire and compensate users in large amounts due to the abnormal delisting of the CFD project. This act of proactive compensation marked the origin of the title of "People's Exchange" - a testament to the community's original affirmation of us. We have always treasured this rare trust, and being "People's Exchange" is our proudest label.

Recently, on March 26th and 27th, some users experienced longer-than-expected wait times during the withdrawal process. As "People's Exchange," we feel a deep sense of responsibility for this inconvenience and would like to sincerely apologize.

To express our profound gratitude for your support and patience, KuCoin will launch a special airdrop event totaling 10 million USD in KCS and BTC. We hope that through this initiative, we can express our gratitude for the support of our loyal users. Thank you for your understanding and support. KuCoin will continue to strive for higher quality and safer services, growing together with you.

The rules will be announced officially within 3 days, please be aware of any form of scams.

Heartfelt thanks, and we wish you a pleasant experience with KuCoin! We also invite you to join us in witnessing the gradual flourishing of the entire crypto industry, all the way to changing the world!

Sincerely,

Johnny Lyu, CEO of KuCoin

About KuCoin

Launched in September 2017, KuCoin is a global cryptocurrency exchange with its operational headquarters in Seychelles. As a user-oriented platform with a focus on inclusiveness and community action reach, it offers over 800 digital assets and currently provides Spot trading, Margin trading, P2P Fiat trading, Futures trading, and Staking to its 30 million users in more than 200 countries and regions. KuCoin is currently one of the top 8 crypto exchanges. In 2023, KuCoin was named one of the Best Crypto Exchanges by Forbes and recognized as a highly commended global exchange in Finder's 2023 Global Cryptocurrency Trading Platform Awards. Learn more at https://www.kucoin.com/.

SOURCE KuCoin
New Platform Provides Advisors with End-to-End Tech Solutions with Complete Integration of Key Services, including Clearing and Custody

CHICAGO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- LaSalle St., a family of wealth management firms encompassing independent broker-dealer and registered investment advisor (RIA) platforms, today announced the addition of the award-winning Advyzon platform, a comprehensive platform with multiple tools to help advisors run and scale their firms. This addition augments LaSalle St.'s robust technology offerings, Technology Learning Center and related Advisor Concierge Service.

Advyzon, a Chicago-based technology company, provides a full range of services, including portfolio management, account aggregation, performance reporting, CRM, a growth suite, client portal, mobile app and secure document management. Their platform allows advisors to sign on once and execute all these functions in one streamlined location.

Mark Contey, Chief Marketing Officer, LaSalle St., said, "Advisors need to balance flexibility and efficiency when selecting a technology solution. We identify the best solutions across the widest range of platforms for our advisors, and we've been incredibly impressed with the utility of the Advyzon offering. But most importantly, Advyzon shares our commitment to supporting the advisors who use their servicesenabling these firms to grow in the way they choose."

Continuous Improvement and Education

This latest partnership is part of LaSalle St.'s commitment to continuous improvement of its technology solutions and access to education and support for its advisors. Last year, the firm launched Advisor Concierge Services to enhance its Technology Learning Center. Through this center, LaSalle St. provides its advisors with live and recorded webinars, white papers, podcasts and more, providing best-in-class resources without getting in the way of their entrepreneurial approach to the business.

Contey concluded, "The ever-changing technology environment requires us to invest strategically to ensure we provide our advisors and their teams with the right tools to build their businesses and deliver for their clients."

About LaSalle St.

LaSalle St. is a family of firms comprising LaSalle St. Securities, an independent broker-dealer; LaSalle St. Investment Advisors, a SEC-registered investment adviser; and LaSalle St. Insurance Services, a provider of annuity and insurance products. It has a singular mission of supporting the growth and success of independent financial advisors across the country. Founded in 1974 and based in Chicago, Illinois, LaSalle St. supports more than 300 financial advisors, has approximately $12 billion in total client assets and is registered in all 50 states. The LaSalle St. companies offer a wide range of services, including brokerage, advisory, investment and insurance. The firm clears primarily through National Financial Services, with custodial services through NFS parent Fidelity Investments. For more information, visit https://www.lasallest.com/.

Media Inquiries

Donald C. Cuter

Haven Tower Group

[email protected]

424 317 4864

SOURCE LaSalle St.
$10,000 Education Grant to be awarded to school with most active participation of the Wave Makers STEM Competition for Florida students ages 4  18.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Calling all young innovators, educators, and families! The Wave Makers STEM Competition is open for Florida students ages 4  18. This is an extraordinary opportunity to dive into environmental education connected to the ocean and wild Florida.

Dr. Sylvia Earle | Photo by Tim Taylor Dr. Sylvia Earle | Photo by Tim Taylor

Wave Makers is proud to announce that the school that demonstrates the most active participation will receive a $10,000 education grant to advance their STEM programs. Classes of 20 or more that submit their applications before March 31, 2024 will receive a science pizza party treated by Wave Makers. The top student will receive a $5,000 scholarship for college.

The top students of the Wave Makers STEM competition will have the chance to pitch their ideas in a "friendly shark tank" format to "shark and judge" esteemed oceanographer, National Geographic's Explorer-at-Large, Her Deepness, Dr. Sylvia Earle. Florida students ages 4  18 can have their teachers or parents or guardians submit their video entries no later than April 10, 2024. The top 100 finalists will receive a free ticket to attend the Wave Makers Ocean Symposium featuring Dr. Sylvia Earle and being held at the COX Science Center and Aquarium in West Palm Beach on Saturday, April 27 at 3:00 p.m.

Deadline for Wave Makers Submissions: April 10, 2024

To find out more about entering the Wave Makers visit wavemakersimpact.org/STEM.

Please contact [email protected] or visit WaveMakersImpact.org/STEM.

About Wave Makers powered by Livingston's Way 501c3:

Wave Makers is powered by Livingston's Way, a 501(c)(3) headquartered in South Florida. Committed to empowering greatness in every individual, Wave Makers leverages the transformative power of media, education, and game-changing opportunities to inspire positive change in our community. Through initiatives like the STEM Competition and the Ocean Symposiums, Wave Makers seeks to ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and cultivate a generation of leaders equipped to tackle our most pressing challenges. Wave Makers is hosting the Ocean Symposium for Kids on Saturday, April 27 at the COX Science Center and Aquarium and the Ocean Symposium for adults on Friday, April 26 at the FP&L Manatee Lagoon.

Media Contact: Jocelyn Piccinetti

Phone Number: 561-310-2669

Email: [email protected]

Website: WaveMakersImpact.org/STEM

SOURCE Wave Makers
MISSISSAUGA, ON, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Maple Leaf Foods Inc. ("Maple Leaf Foods" or the "Company") (TSX: MFI) today announced that it has filed its 2024 Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Management Information Circular (the "Circular") with securities regulators.

The Annual Meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. The meeting is being hosted in a hybrid structure, meaning that shareholders may attend virtually by a live video webcast or in person at ThinkFood!, 6897 Financial Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

Shareholders are encouraged to review the Circular as it contains important information about the Annual Meeting, including the election of directors, the appointment of the Company's auditor and the approval of the amendment to the Company's Amended and Restated Share Option Plan. In addition, the Circular provides a detailed description of Maple Leaf Foods' approach to governance and executive compensation.

The Company is again using "Notice and Access" to deliver the Circular and related meeting materials, including its 2023 Annual Financial Statements, by providing Shareholders with notice of availability and access to the materials online at www.mapleleaffoods.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Notice and Access is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to distribute these materials since it reduces printing, paper and postage.

Please see below for links to the Notice and Circular:

Management Information Circular

Notice and Access Letter

Shareholders are encouraged to cast their votes early by proxy and to check the Maple Leaf Foods website at www.mapleleaffoods.com for additional information about the Annual Meeting. Instructions for shareholders wishing to request paper copies of any of the meeting materials are included in the Notice.

About Maple Leaf Foods

Maple Leaf Foods Inc. ("Maple Leaf Foods") is a carbon neutral company with a vision to be the most sustainable protein company on earth, responsibly producing food products under leading brands including Maple Leaf, Maple Leaf Prime, Maple Leaf Natural Selections, Schneiders, Schneiders Country Naturals, Mina, Greenfield Natural Meat Co., Lightlife and Field Roast. Maple Leaf Foods employs approximately 13,500 people and does business in Canada, the U.S. and Asia. The company is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, and its shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MFI).

SOURCE Maple Leaf Foods Inc.
As Microsoft 365 Copilot aims to enhance workplace efficiency, Info-Tech Research Group's latest blueprint identifies both opportunities and barriers to its adoption. The research explores the intricacies of integrating this AI tool into existing systems and addresses concerns over data privacy, providing actionable insights for overcoming these challenges to fully capitalize on Copilot's capabilities.

TORONTO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Adapting to the rapid pace of digital transformation, organizations are balancing technological adoption in an AI-driven environment by increasingly integrating advanced tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot. This integration of AI presents vast opportunities and significant challenges, often without a clear understanding of the technology's practical use cases and benefits. As organizations and their IT teams navigate the adoption of Copilot, Info-Tech Research Group has released its latest blueprint, Prepare for Microsoft 365 Copilot. The resource offers a strategic roadmap for IT leaders to leverage Microsoft 365 Copilot's transformative power, ensuring a boost in productivity and innovation while maintaining strict data privacy and compliance standards.

Info-Tech Research Group's "Prepare for Microsoft 365 Copilot" blueprint outlines a roadmap of strategic steps for IT leaders to effectively deploy Microsoft 365 Copilot in their operations. (CNW Group/Info-Tech Research Group)

"Solutions like Microsoft 365 Copilot can revolutionize how employees work by offering an array of powerful capabilities designed to elevate employee productivity, enhance work quality, minimize errors, and save valuable time," says Mahmoud Ramin, senior research analyst at Info-Tech Research Group. "With the ability to assist users in crafting compelling blogs, analyzing data to deliver insights within moments, drafting emails tailored to documents and client sentiments, and summarizing meetings while outlining the next steps, Copilot has the potential to transform everyday tasks into streamlined processes."

While CxOs find Copilot's AI features appealing, Info-Tech's research identifies significant adoption challenges, such as a lack of in-house technical expertise, potential integration issues, and complex technical prerequisites and licensing terms. Additionally, data privacy concerns add another layer of challenge, particularly regarding Copilot's handling of sensitive information. This lack of trust and the ethical considerations surrounding potential bias and misuse of the technology create a significant barrier to widespread Copilot deployment, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to deploying AI tools within organizations.

"It's essential for users to understand both the capabilities of Copilot and its potential impact on their daily tasks. Business leaders must be well-informed about the requirements for implementing such a powerful solution," explains Ramin. "Among the various concerns, data privacy stands out as particularly critical. There's widespread apprehension regarding data access rights and the risk of company data being exposed externally. However, Copilot is designed to automatically conform to an organization's strict security, compliance, and privacy protocols."

Info-Tech's research provides a roadmap of strategic steps for IT leaders to effectively deploy Microsoft 365 Copilot in their operations. The firm's recommended approach for IT and their organizations, found within the new blueprint, aims to streamline the integration process and ensure maximization of the benefits of Copilot while addressing technical, ethical, and compliance challenges. The approach is outlined below at a high level:

Determine Organizational Goals: Begin by clarifying what the organization aims to achieve by deploying Copilot. Consider Technical Requirements: Understand the technical requirements necessary for the seamless integration of Copilot. Assess the Existing Technology Landscape: Review how current technological setups align with the introduction of Copilot. Enhance Data Protection and Prohibit Unauthorized Data Sharing: Implement enhanced data protection protocols to prevent unauthorized data sharing. Evaluate Skill Sets for Deployment: Assess whether the team possesses the necessary skills for deploying Copilot or if additional training is needed. Apply Ethical and Compliance Guidelines: Ensure the deployment adheres to ethical and compliance standards. Set Up Testing and Change Management for Deployment: Establish comprehensive testing and change management processes to facilitate smooth deployment. Build an Acceptable Use Policy: Create a policy that outlines acceptable use cases to guide users in the responsible application of Copilot. Proactively Address and Tackle Employee Adoption Concerns: Anticipate and address any potential issues or resistance from employees regarding adopting Copilot. Monitor and Evaluate the Impact of Copilot for further Extension: Continuously assess Copilot's impact on workflows and consider further expansions based on outcomes.

The firm's research highlights Microsoft 365 Copilot's capacity to potentially transform workplace productivity by automating tasks, such as summarizing long email threads into actionable notes, recognizing differing viewpoints, and identifying key insights and unanswered questions. As Copilot continues to evolve with future updates, its role in enhancing workplace efficiency is anticipated to grow, marking a significant advancement in how employees manage and execute their day-to-day activities.

For exclusive and timely commentary from Mahmoud Ramin, an expert in infrastructure and operations, and access to the complete Prepare for Microsoft 365 Copilot blueprint, please contact [email protected].

About Info-Tech Research Group

Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world's leading information technology research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 professionals. The company produces unbiased and highly relevant research to help CIOs and IT leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For more than 25 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with IT teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm's Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact [email protected].

For information about Info-Tech Research Group or to access the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and X.

SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group
Women's Wrangler purses have made their debut on the MONTANA WEST to make their customers' shopping experience worthwhile! Wrangler purses are known to hold all daily-use items and are incredibly stylish.

LOS ANGELES, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Montana West is known for its wholesale collection, which combines traditional Western elements with modern design. It combines impressive quality and design with unbeatable pricing, expressing individualism, strength, and a trailblazing nature. Montana West is more than a handbag brand; it's an attitude. The Montana West cowgirl is always ready to Ride and Shine.

Montana West Brings Full Range of Wrangler Purses

WRANGLER COW PRINT CROSSBODY TOTE BAG

Montana West's Wrangler Purse collection is known for its durability and convenient carry. These purses feature various detailed decorations such as leather patchwork, embroidery, metal rivets, and tassels. They are often favored by women for formal occasions or when a lightweight option is desired.

Wrangler purses have always been in high demand for their size, value, and handbag pockets. It has dividers and pockets inside, including a tablet and zipper pocket. Also, the strap doubles as a guitar strap, making it easier to carry.

Other Products and Offerings of Montana West

Montana West is known to put a lot of detail into creating quality. It includes tooling, studs, fringe, rhinestones, woven, embroidery, beading, Conchos, buckles, crosses, Aztecs, camo, and print.

Handbags and Wallets

Montana West offers a variety of handbags from top brands like Trinity Ranch, American Bling, Delia, etc. It has a vast collection of different handbags, including backpacks, crossbody bags, and clutches or wristlets. Handbag sets featuring wallets are also quite popular for meeting daily needs. These are available in many styles, such as Totes, Hobo, and Satchel. One can also explore phone wallets and weekender bags in many designs.

Jewelry

Stylish jewelry is another beautiful highlight of Montana-West.com, with chic necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. One can also find Wrangler jewelry sets with pendant necklaces and earrings. Bohemian necklaces and pendant earrings are staples that can never go out of fashion and always add a classic touch and grace to your apparel. Boho Concho chain link belt and circle dangling earrings are among the many graceful collections topping the charts in the jewelry section.

Apparel

Montana West also has an excellent apparel collection that includes t-shirts, scarves/ponchos, long-sleeved shirts and hoodies, and sweatshirts to ensure you never run out of style in any season. Many versatile designs are available, like leopard print, Aztec Fringe, Cowboy, etc., to stay a step ahead of fashion and set trends for our customers.

Accessories

Montana West is also a storehouse for beautiful accessories, including chic jewelry, travel accessories, reading glasses, sunglasses, bandanas, and neck gaiters. It also sells fixtures like meta display racks to organize the products neatly. Real leather journals and refill papers of vintage design also make great accessories. One can also give a $25.00 Montana West Gift Card to anyone who wants to purchase any product of their choice from the site.

About Montana West

Montana-West.com is a distinguished name in the fashion industry, known for its stylish, high-quality Western-inspired purses, serving tens of millions customers worldwide. Merging traditional Western aesthetics with modern design, our award-winning collection offers durability and style at competitive prices.

Featured across various platforms and embodying the spirit of the Wild Wild West, our products celebrate the individualism and strength of the modern cowgirl. Montana West handbags are designed for those ready to "Ride and Shine"; an essential must have for any modern independent women.

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

SOURCE Montana West
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --

News Advisory :

What: Satellite Media Tour (SMT) with Danielle Gershkovich (sister of WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich) and Paul Beckett of The Wall Street Journal.

When: Thursday, March 28 (interview slots available starting at 8:30 am Eastern.)

Where: Originating from the National Press Club studios.

Booking Information : Contact Melanie Ierardi (202-662-7592 or [email protected]) to arrange a window.

News hook: Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich will reach a milestone of one year in a Russian prison on March 29. In March 2023, Evan was arrested by Russia security services, simply for doing his job as a journalist. He has been wrongfully detained for one year, falsely accused of espionage - a charge the US government and the Journal vehemently deny. His sister, Danielle, will talk about the family's experience since Evan's unjust arrest and how one year is a difficult reminder of the personal toll of his situation. Paul Beckett of The Wall Street Journal will provide the latest on Evan's case and the Journal's efforts to keep his story in the public eye.

BACKGROUND:

In March 2023, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was arrested by Russia while on a reporting trip and falsely accused of espionage, making him the first American journalist detained in Russia on such a charge since the Cold War. Both the US government and the Journal vehemently deny the allegation. President Biden and news organizations around the world have joined the Journal in calling for Gershkovich's immediate release. Evan's pre-trial detention has been extended several times. On January 26, 2024, a Russian court again extended Evan's pre-trial detention another 2 months, this time until at least March 30, 2024.

Evan's arrest and wrongful detention is an attack on journalism and the free press. Such an attack has consequences not just for journalism and media but for governments and democracies around the world. Without press freedom there is no democracy.

Evan was born and raised in New Jersey, the son of Soviet Jewish emigres. He graduated from Bowdoin College in Maine in 2014. Before joining the Journal in January 2022, Evan was a reporter for Agence France-Presse and the Moscow Times. He was also a news assistant at the New York Times.

Call To Action:

Show your support for Evan by using the #IStandWithEvan hashtag on social media.

Biographical Information

Danielle Gershkovich is Evan's older sister and speaks out on his behalf, in order to help keep Evan's story front and center. She lives in Philadelphia. She has been interviewed by The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, CNN and NPR and others. In October and December she was part of successful media tour with appearances on Morning Joe, Voice of America, Al Jazeera, Reuters TV and local affiliates in Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, Portland, ME, and Hartford CT.

Paul Beckett is an assistant editor at The Wall Street Journal, focused on the efforts supporting Evan Gershkovich. He was most recently the WSJ's Washington Bureau Chief and has served in multiple overseas postings, including Hong Kong and India. Paul has spoken publicly on Evan's case extensively, both in-person and on-air.

Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 for the National Press Club

SOURCE National Press Club
Company Bids Fond Farewell to Former OCA CEO Nacho Abia

Richard Reynolds, President of Medical Systems Group, to Join OCA Board

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Olympus, a leading global MedTech company providing innovative solutions for medical and surgical procedures, announced today the appointment of Julien Sauvagnargues to the role of President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Olympus Corporation of the Americas (OCA), reporting to Olympus Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), Gabriela Kaynor, effective April 1, 2024.

Julien Sauvagnargues

This new step in Mr. Sauvagnargues' career at Olympus, which began in 2006, builds upon his tenure as OCA President since 2020. He will be responsible for overseeing Olympus' activities throughout North and South America from OCA's headquarters in Center Valley, Pennsylvania. As CEO, he will join the Board of Directors for AdvaMed, a prominent MedTech trade association. Recently, he participated in AdvaMed's CEO summit, which annually gathers the leading executives in the MedTech industry. Regionally, he continues to serve on the Board of Directors for the Lehigh Valley Partnership, a consortium of business executives and government leaders.

An additional change in OCA leadership will occur as Richard Reynolds, President of the Medical Systems Group, will join the OCA Board of Directors, the regional governing body committed to the regional business, customers, and employees. In addition, after serving as Deputy General Counsel, David Gomez will assume the role of Corporate General Counsel, OCA, which was previously held by Thomas Glavin, who will retire later this year after nearly eight years at Olympus. Mr. Glavin came to Olympus in 2016 in a consultant role and became the OCA Chief Compliance Officer that same year. In February 2021, he became OCA General Counsel to oversee that region's legal function.

These leadership changes are in part due to the departure from Olympus of Nacho Abia, former OCA CEO and global CSO.

"Julien, Richard and I have worked closely as leaders to help make the North American Olympus business what it is today, the largest contributing region to our global revenue," said Mr. Abia. "Although I'm excited for my next journey, I'm looking forward to watching their success as they take OCA to inspiring new places."

Mr. Abia has accepted the position of CEO for Grifols, a pharmaceutical company based in Barcelona, Spain, Mr. Abia's original home. His last day at Olympus is March 31, 2024. Mr. Abia was the first employee of Olympus Spain, currently known as Olympus Iberia. In 2011, he moved to Center Valley, Pennsylvania to join OCA and assumed the responsibility of President for its Consumer Imaging Business Division.

In 2013, he was promoted to the role of President of OCA and in March 2015 was also appointed as its CEO. In 2020, he was promoted from President of the OCA region to take on global leadership roles as an Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Olympus Corporation. He was also a member of OCA's Board of Directors and of the Global Executive Committee of Olympus in Tokyo. Mr. Abia has been pivotal in leading the business in the company's largest market in terms of sales, setting strategic direction, optimizing the company's business portfolio, and guiding the direction for future innovation.

"We cannot be grateful enough for Nacho's 23-year tenure with this company," said Stefan Kaufmann, CEO, Olympus Corporation. "We will miss him greatly, but also we're delighted that Julien will take the reins for the many exciting initiatives to come."

About Olympus

At Olympus, we are committed to our purpose of making people's lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling. As a global medical technology company, we partner with healthcare professionals striving to provide best-in-class solutions and services for early detection, diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment, aiming to improve patient outcomes by elevating the standard of care in targeted disease states. For more information, visit medical.olympusamerica.com.

SOURCE Olympus Corporation of the Americas
The lung nodules educational resources, sponsored by Olympus, help patients understand the diagnosis and staging process for lung nodules and why it is important to their treatment journey. With this information, patients are empowered to make the best-informed decisions about their own care.

"Olympus is very excited to support this great new educational resource for lung cancer patients through our partnership with the American Lung Association," said Jovan Reyerson, Senior Vice President of Medical and Scientific Affairs at Olympus Corporation of the Americas. "Empowered patients are able to more actively participate in their care, ask relevant questions, and advocate for themselves."

Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA), a procedure pioneered by Olympus, has helped lay the groundwork for targeted cancer treatment such as immunotherapy. The technology helps pulmonologists locate nodules and lymph nodes and collect the tissue samples needed to diagnose and stage their disease, and this analysis informs the personalized, targeted cancer therapy provided by treatments such as immunotherapy.

Using technologies such as EBUS-TBNA, physicians can tell not only how far lung cancer has spread but also understand the genetic make-up of the cancer cells, which helps physicians recommend the most targeted therapies.

Potential complications associated with endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) include sore throat, infection, bleeding, perforation, and/or tumor seeding (when EUS-fine needle aspiration or biopsy is performed).

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Early detection of lung cancer is key as the 5-year relative survival rate for non-small cell lung cancer is about 65% when caught at a localized stage. That figure drops to about 37% once the cancer spreads outside the lungs to areas such as the lymph nodes, and then the figure drops to single digits once cancer spreads to distant parts of the body. Olympus is proud to sponsor this new Lung.org patient education campaign aimed at helping people get the care that they need in order to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

About Olympus

At Olympus, we are committed to Our Purpose of making people's lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling. As a global medical technology company, we partner with healthcare professionals to provide best-in-class solutions and services for early detection, diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment, aiming to improve patient outcomes by elevating the standard of care in targeted disease states.

For more than 100 years, Olympus has pursued a goal of contributing to society by producing products designed with the purpose of delivering optimal outcomes for its customers around the world. For more information, visit medical.olympusamerica.com.

 The American Lung Association, "State of Lung Cancer 2023 Report"

 American Cancer Society, "Key Statistics for Lung Cancer." Rev. January 2023

 American Cancer Society, "Lung Cancer Survival Rates." Rev. March 2023

SOURCE Olympus Corporation of the Americas
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Pajarito Powder, LLC, a domestic developer and manufacturer of advanced catalysts, an enabling technology used in fuel cells and electrolyzers, was selected for two $10 million awards by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The funds will be used to increase production and reduce costs of catalysts for lower-cost fuel cells and green hydrogen production.

Cheaper Fuel Cell Catalysts

On the fuel cell project, Pajarito Powder will work with Brookhaven National Laboratory, General Motors Co., Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Strategic Analysis, as well as with national laboratory researchers as part of the Million Mile Fuel Cell Truck Consortium. Community partners include the University of New Mexico (UNM) Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, UNM's STEM-H Center, and the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD).

"Pajarito Powder believes that hydrogen is one of the keys to decarbonizing transportation," said company chief executive officer and board chairman Thomas J. Stephenson. "With lower-cost catalysts, fuel cells will become commercially viable for larger vehicles that need more energy."

The project will support DOE's goal of enabling domestic, commercial production of fuel cell catalysts and components. The project will scale up production of carbon supports and platinum and platinum alloy catalysts and reduce carbon-supported catalyst costs, paving the way for low-cost, commercial deployment of fuel cells. Fuel cell performance is also expected to improve.

Green Hydrogen Catalysts

Pajarito Powder will work with Auris Noble and Nel Hydrogen to create an increased supply of catalysts that will dramatically reduce the amount of iridium needed for proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis. Pajarito Powder will working with three community partners  UNM's Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, UNM's STEM-H Center and the New Mexico EDD and plan to leverage national laboratory expertise through the H2NEW Consortium.

"This is a very significant development for our company,'' said Dr. Michele Ostraat, chief operating officer of Pajarito Powder, principal investigator managing both projects. "We're going to staff up, add equipment, install new systems, and accelerate our growth  all to advance the goals we share with DOE. This is a big step in creating a green hydrogen ecosystem in New Mexico."

Pajarito Powder's engineered PEM catalysts reduce the amount of iridium used in green hydrogen production by 14 percent to 60 percent, making the supply of this precious metal extend further. It also greatly reduces the cost of green hydrogen production.

Pajarito Powder opened a new manufacturing facility in Albuquerque this year that will enable 200 times as much production of hydrogen fuel cell catalysts and 100 times as much production of green hydrogen catalysts.

About Pajarito Powder

Based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA, Pajarito Powder is a world leader in the development and commercialization of advanced electrocatalysts for fuel cells and electrolyzers. Pajarito Powder manufactures a range of catalyst products using its own intellectual property as well as intellectual property licensed from UNM, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique.

Pajarito Powder manufactures catalysts for use in proton exchange membrane (PEM) and anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolyzers and PEM fuel cells. Pajarito Powder materials more effectively use platinum group metal (PGM) components, resulting in higher performance, better stability, and improved durability.

Pajarito Powder is a venture-backed startup funded by Bekaert, Hyundai Motor Company, Verge Fund, Omphalos Venture Partners, and other private investors. It has received essential support from the New Mexico EDD, the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, and the City of Albuquerque.

CONTACT:

Jeff Plungis

Senior Advisor, Scott Fosgard Communications

202-744-9768

[email protected]

SOURCE Pajarito Powder
PITTSBURGH, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Polyconcept North America (PCNA), the leading supplier of promotional products, is proud to announce the appointment of Doug Mitchell to the role of Chief Growth Officer, a new position within the company's Executive Leadership Team. Mitchell is tasked with spearheading strategic initiatives focused on high growth and driving innovation throughout PCNA's operations in North America.

With a proven track record of building and scaling high-performing teams and products throughout his 15 years of experience in e-commerce, digital marketing, and advertising, Doug Mitchell is exceptionally positioned to contribute to PCNA's mission. Most recently, he was the Vice President of Performance Marketing at Chewy, where he enhanced the online customer acquisition and retention programs for the leading pet retailer. Prior to that, Mitchell was the General Manager of Supplier Advertising and Retail Media at Wayfair, where he further solidified his expertise in building and growing a cross-functional business unit that created impactful advertising solutions for Wayfair's suppliers and partners.

"I am incredibly excited to contribute to PCNA's market leadership by advancing the company's growth and innovative endeavors, especially through Givee Select, PCNA's pioneering gifting solution," expressed Mitchell. "The demand for a streamlined, personalized gifting experience is significant, and I am dedicated to ensuring Givee Select not only meets but exceeds distributor expectations."

Launched in January 2024, Givee Select is a centralized online store solution that streamlines personalized gifting, offering a seamless gifting process for any occasion, such as conferences and corporate events. The all-in-one platform empowers distributors to handpick from a curated collection of high-quality gifts, facilitating the option for unique personalization, transparent pricing, no inventory obligations, and reduced waste. To date, Givee Select is nearing 1,000 store set ups, highlighting the platform's growing demand in the industry.

Mitchell is no stranger to the Promotional Products industry, having led the team that created Vistaprint's wholesale business as Vice President of Partner Development for seven years. His entrepreneurial spirit is also demonstrated through his co-founding and leadership as CEO at OfferLogic, which aligns exceptionally with PCNA's innovative drive.

"We are thrilled to welcome Doug to the PCNA family," stated Neil Ringel, CEO of PCNA. "Doug's entrepreneurial mindset and proven track record in driving growth make him an invaluable addition to our team. We are confident that he will help us achieve our vision of becoming the leading provider of personalized and customized products in North America."

Doug Mitchell attended the US Naval Academy, earned a bachelor's degree at Brown University and his MBA from The University of Virginia's Darden School of Business.

For media inquiries, please contact: Heather Poulsen, [email protected]

About PCNA

PCNA is a wholly owned subsidiary of Polyconcept, the world's leading promotional products supplier. With headquarters near Pittsburgh, Pa., PCNA operates Trimark, Leed's, Bullet, JournalBooks, ETS Express and Spoke Custom, offering customers the industry's biggest and most diverse collection of products. To learn more, go to www.pcna.com.

SOURCE Polyconcept North America (PCNA)
OAKLAND, Calif., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG) will hold a conference call on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time (8:00 a.m. Pacific Time) to discuss its first quarter 2024 results. The public can access the conference call through a simultaneous webcast. The link is provided below and will also be available from the PG&E Corporation website.

What: First Quarter 2024 Earnings Call



When: Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time



Where: http://investor.pgecorp.com/news-events/events-and-presentations/default.aspx

A replay of the live conference call and webcast will be available at http://investor.pgecorp.com/news-events/events-and-presentations/default.aspx.

Alternatively, a toll-free replay of the conference call may be accessed shortly after the live call through May 2, 2024 by dialing (800) 770-2030. Confirmation code 92587 will be required to access the replay.

Please contact Investor Relations at [email protected] if you have any questions.

PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG) is a holding company headquartered in Oakland. It is the parent company of Pacific Gas and Electric Company, an energy company that serves 16 million Californians across a 70,000-square-mile service area in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit http://www.pgecorp.com.

SOURCE PG&E Corporation
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global pharmaceutical market in canada size is estimated to grow by USD 8.73 bn from 2024 to 2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period. North America held the largest share of the global market in 2023, and the market in the region is estimated to witness an incremental growth of 100%.

To understand more about this market- Download a FREE Sample Report in minutes!

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Pharmaceutical Market in Canada 2024-2028

Major Players in the Market

Numerous companies are capitalizing on this growing trend by implementing strategic measures such as alliances, partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions. Among the notable players in the cheese based snacks market are:

Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie Inc., Amgen Inc., Apotex Inc., AstraZeneca PLC, Bayer AG, Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Eli Lilly and Co., F. Hoffmann La Roche Ltd., Gilead Sciences Inc., GlaxoSmithKline Plc, Johnson and Johnson Services Inc., LES LABORATOIRES SERVIER, Merck and Co. Inc., Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., Sanofi SA, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Analyst Review

In the Canadian pharmaceutical market, life sciences companies play a significant role in producing essential medical items, including personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, and sanitizers. Healthcare workers rely on these products to ensure security protocols are maintained during the ongoing health crisis. Research and development in areas such as pharmaceuticals, biomanufacturing, and vaccines continue to be a priority. The geriatric population and those with chronic diseases, including hypertension, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma, cancer, and metabolic disorders, require ongoing medication and treatment. Product launches and approvals for over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and treatments for conditions like atopic dermatitis (AD) and antihistamines are also crucial aspects of the Canadian pharmaceutical market.

Key Market Drivers

The Canadian Pharmaceutical Market is a significant hub for brand-name products, with major life sciences companies investing in Canadian sales. Canada's advanced healthcare system, skilled workforce, and strong research and development capabilities make it an attractive destination for pharmaceutical investment. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, companies have also invested in medical items such as personal protective equipment, including masks and ventilators, to support healthcare workers, physicians, nurses, and volunteers. The Government of Canada has implemented stringent security protocols, including plexiglass barriers, sanitizers, one-way aisles, social distancing, and self-isolation measures, to ensure public safety. The pharmaceutical industry in Canada continues to focus on research and development, with investments in biomanufacturing and vaccines for geriatric populations and those with chronic diseases, such as hypertension, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma, and cancer.

Pharmaceutical Market In Canada Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period 2018 - 2022 Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 4.6% Market growth 2024-2028 $ 8.73 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 3.74 Regional analysis Canada Performing market contribution North America at 100% Key countries Canada and North America Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie Inc., Amgen Inc., Apotex Inc., AstraZeneca PLC, Bayer AG, Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Eli Lilly and Co., F. Hoffmann La Roche Ltd., Gilead Sciences Inc., GlaxoSmithKline Plc, Johnson and Johnson Services Inc., LES LABORATOIRES SERVIER, Merck and Co. Inc., Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., Sanofi SA, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Challenges and Opportunities

Canada's pharmaceutical sector faces complexities due to regulatory agencies like the Patented Medicines Prices Review Board (PMPRB). Despite these challenges, innovation continues in sub-sectors such as diabetes and metabolic disorders. Notable developments include product launches and approvals of innovative medicines for prediabetes and diabetes. Health Canada also regulates Over-the-Counter (OTC) drugs, including antihistamines, moisturizers, and emollients for topical disorders like atopic dermatitis (AD), supported by the Canadian Dermatology Association. The sector also encompasses bio-equivalent copies of brand-name pharmaceuticals, antibiotics, corticosteroids, and treatments for conditions like melanoma. Global market competition pressures companies to balance pricing strategies with R&D costs for patented therapies, innovative drugs, and emerging technologies like nanomedicines and brand-name products. Canadian sales of these products contribute significantly to the industry's growth.

The Canada Pharmaceutical Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by Canadian healthcare's focus on precision medicine and innovative treatment modalities. Life sciences companies are at the forefront of this advancement, developing medical items such as personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks and ventilators, to safeguard healthcare workers, physicians, nurses, and volunteers during the ongoing pandemic. The Government of Canada invests in research and development, leading to breakthroughs in pharmaceuticals, biomanufacturing, and vaccines. The geriatric population and those with chronic diseases, including hypertension, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma, cancer, diabetes, prediabetes, and metabolic disorders, benefit from these advancements. Product launches and approvals by Health Canada include OTC drugs for topical disorders like atopic dermatitis (AD), with the Canadian Dermatology Association advocating for antihistamines, moisturizers, and emollients.

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Market Overview

The Pharmaceutical Market in Canada is a significant sector, marked by chronic diseases and an aging population. The market comprises various players, including drug manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. The Canadian healthcare system, a universal, publicly-funded program, influences the market dynamics. The market is segmented into various categories, such as therapeutic areas and geographical locations. The therapeutic areas include cardiovascular diseases, oncology, and neurology, among others. The provinces and territories form the geographical segments. The Canadian government plays a crucial role in regulating the market through bodies like Health Canada and the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board. The market faces challenges like rising healthcare costs, increasing competition, and regulatory hurdles. Despite these challenges, the market offers opportunities due to the growing demand for innovative treatments and an aging population. The market is expected to grow steadily in the coming years.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation

7 Customer Landscape

8 Geographic Landscape

9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10 Venodr 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 market trends and provides 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
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Philip Stein, a leader in wearable wellness accessories, announced today an exciting brand partnership with kathy ireland Worldwide (kiWW), blending the worlds of wellness, fashion, and luxury. This collaboration will be launched by Kathy Ireland alongside Marine, Millennial and kiWW Board Member, Tommy Meharey.

Image Courtesy of Jon Carrasco

The collaboration will infuse life into a collection of watches and sleep bracelets embedded with Philip Stein's Natural Frequency Technology, clinically proven to reduce stress, boost energy levels, improve sleep quality, and promote overall well-being.

"Kathy Ireland is a force of lifestyle design, extraordinary business acumen and philanthropy. Kathy and kiWW share Philip Stein's commitment to promoting wellness in all areas of life. Kathy's distinctive style and design approach will bring a fresh, personal touch to these exclusive products," says Will Stein, CEO and co-founder of Philip Stein. "We are thrilled to partner with Kathy and her incredible team, as it represents a harmonious fusion of core values that inspires wellness journeys, as well as effortlessly blending style with health. Our inaugural collection aims to forge a deep emotional connection between our customers and products, adding a delightful touch of playfulness to the overall experience."

"kiWW and Philip Stein are committed to redefining the wellness and luxury space, where timeless elegance and personal well-being will go hand-in-hand," says Kathy Ireland, Chair, CEO and Chief Designer of kiWW, the 14th most powerful brand in the world, as reported by License Global! Magazine. "We are looking forward to working with Will and the Philip Stein team in bringing these luxurious timepieces and accessories to our customers."

"We are more than excited by the kiWW relationship with Philip Stein. Having luxurious, beautiful jewelry, which we believe have health benefits, is the epitome of our brand and our founder, Kathy Ireland, who embraces luxury and healthy living at realistic pricing" Said Worldwide Creative Director, Jon Carrasco and President and CMO, Stephen Roseberry respectively. "We thank Tommy Meharey, our board member and Co-Founder of MIVI (Meharey Ireland Six) for his leadership in creating this extraordinary relationship."

"In combining unique style with cutting-edge wellness technology, this collaboration truly personifies the best of both worlds," said Tommy Meharey, kathy ireland Worldwide Vice President, Board Member and co-founder, with Kathy, of kiWW's men's lifestyle brand MI VI. Pronounced My Six, which is derived from a military phrase meaning I've got your back. "The upcoming styles of sleep bracelets and stress-reducing timepieces will embody kiWW's design ethos, seamlessly blended with Philip Stein's innovative Natural Frequency Technology."

This brand-new collection will be available online and in select authorized retailers in 2024.

About Philip Stein

Philip Stein is a luxury wellness brand offering wearable technology that promotes overall well-being through Natural Frequency Technology. For more information, visit

www.philipstein.com .

About kathy ireland Worldwide

Kathy Ireland and her company, kathy ireland Worldwide, are one of the great American success stories. Launched in 1993, at Ms. Ireland's kitchen table, with a personal loan of $50,000, it is today acknowledged as the most successful woman-owned licensing corporation in history, according to WWD (Women's Wear Daily). The New York Times values kathy ireland Worldwide at over $500 million dollars, and Ms. Ireland's greatest passion is being of service through her multiple philanthropic efforts. Ms. Ireland is married to Dr. Gregory Olsen, and the couple lives in Montecito, CA. As parents, they have one son and two daughters.

SOURCE Philip Stein
BOCA RATON, Fla., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Phoenix Tower International ("PTI" or the "Company"), a leading global wireless communications infrastructure provider, today announced that Grain Management ("Grain"), through its flagship funds, and BlackRock, through a fund managed by its Diversified Infrastructure business ("BlackRock") have made a strategic investment in the Company. The investment will support PTI's future growth in providing critical tower infrastructure to new and existing markets around the world. Grain and BlackRock are joining Blackstone as investors behind PTI as they seek to further grow and expand the business.

Founded in 2013, and headquartered in Florida, PTI is the largest global private tower platform, operating over 24,000 telecom towers across 23 countries in North America, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. PTI serves a diversified customer base of global mobile network operators, enabling them to enhance their ability to keep their customers connected.

"We welcome Grain Management and BlackRock as investors in Phoenix Tower International and look forward to leveraging their strong track records in digital infrastructure investing to support our continued expansion," said Dagan Kasavana, Founder and Chief Executive, Phoenix Tower International. "Over the last decade, we've grown exponentially to provide wireless tower infrastructure to communities and countries in need of greater connectivity and we look forward to growing our impact with the support of our new and existing partners."

"We're excited to partner with Phoenix Tower International and bring our capital and sector expertise to bear in helping drive the company's continued growth as a leading provider of global wireless infrastructure," said Ted Manvitz, Managing Director at Grain.

David J. Grain, Founder and CEO of Grain, said, "Our partnership with PTI naturally aligns with our investment strategy and belief in the power of broadband communications to fuel digital transformation and economic growth, and to unlock human potential."

"Phoenix Tower International owns and operates critical infrastructure that supports a growing network of mobile network operators globally, helping deliver wireless connectivity to customers around the world," said Mark Florian, Global Head of Diversified Infrastructure, BlackRock. "We are excited to invest on behalf of our clients in this leading platform and to partner with Dagan and PTI's highly experienced management team to support the Company's ongoing growth.

About Phoenix Tower International

PTI, through its affiliates and subsidiaries, owns and operates over 24,000 telecom towers in North America, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. PTI was founded in 2013 with a mission to be a premier site provider to wireless operators across the world in high-growth markets. PTI is headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida. For more information, please visit www.phoenixintnl.com

About Grain Management

Grain Management believes broadband and digital infrastructure are foundational to the tech-enabled transformation occurring across all industries and facets of society. Our global team of seasoned and diverse professionals share a collective passion for the power of connectivity to strengthen communities and unlock human potential for all.

Founded in 2007, Grain Management is a leading, global investment firm. We specialize in digital infrastructure and are a trusted solutions provider to the broadband and communications industry. Our unique combination of sector knowledge, experience as operators, and disciplined analytical approach guide our differentiated investment strategy across fiber networks, data centers, wireless spectrum, cell towers, as well as managed and infrastructure services. For more information visit www.graingp.com.

About BlackRock Private Markets

BlackRock's private markets platform serves investors seeking outperformance in infrastructure, private debt, private equity, real estate, and multi-alternatives solutions. We strive to bring our investors the highest quality opportunities by drawing upon our global footprint, superior execution capabilities, proprietary technology, and position as a preferred partner. As of December 31, 2023, BlackRock manages US$327 billion in liquid and illiquid alternative investments and commitments on behalf of clients worldwide.

Contacts

Grain Management

[email protected]

BlackRock

Christopher Beattie

[email protected]

SOURCE Phoenix Tower International
CHICAGO , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "PLGA Market by Composition, Application (Medical, Non-Medical Applications), Processibility (Extrusion, Injection Molding), End-Use Industry (Healthcare, Biotech Firms, Medical Institutions, Packaging, Textile, Agriculture) - Global Forecast to 2030", is projected to reach USD 321 Million by 2030, at a CAGR of 16.6% from USD 125 Million in 2024.

The PLGA market is driven by several factors, including technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviors, favorable economic conditions, expanding applications in various industries, and growing demand. The increasing use of PLGA in various end-use industries, such as healthcare, biotech firms, medical institutions, packaging, textile, and agriculture, is a significant driver for market growth.

Browse in-depth TOC on "PLGA Market".

180  Tables

110  Figures

260  Pages

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=143024577

"Injection molding is projected to be the fastest growing processibility type of PLGA, in terms of value, during the forecast period."

Injection molding stands as a pivotal processibility type for PLGA (poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)), offering businesses in various industries a versatile and efficient method for producing complex and precise polymer components. PLGA, renowned for its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and tunable properties, lends itself exceptionally well to the injection molding process. This manufacturing technique involves injecting molten PLGA resin into a mold cavity under high pressure, where it solidifies to form the desired shape. Injection molding offers several advantages for PLGA-based products, including high production efficiency, consistent part quality, and the ability to produce intricate geometries with tight tolerances. In industries such as healthcare, where PLGA finds extensive applications in medical devices, implants, and drug delivery systems, injection molding enables the mass production of customized and patient-specific components, facilitating cost-effective manufacturing and rapid product development cycles.

"Packaging is the fastest growing end-use industry of the PLGA, in terms of value."

Packaging stands as a pivotal end-use industry for PLGA (poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid), offering a promising avenue for sustainable and innovative solutions in the global packaging market. PLGA, renowned for its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and versatility, finds applications across various packaging sectors. In recent years, the packaging industry has witnessed a paradigm shift towards eco-friendly materials, driven by consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions and tightening regulations governing plastic waste. PLGA emerges as a compelling alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics, offering properties conducive to packaging applications such as films, coatings, and containers. Its ability to degrade into harmless byproducts under controlled conditions aligns with the circular economy principles, addressing concerns related to environmental pollution and resource depletion.

Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=143024577

"North America captures the largest share in the PLGA market during the forecast period, in terms of value."

The PLGA market in North America stands as a vibrant and evolving landscape within the realm of biodegradable polymers. Fueled by factors such as increasing demand for advanced drug delivery systems, growing investments in biomedical research, and stringent regulatory requirements promoting biocompatible materials, the market exhibits significant growth potential. North America, with its robust pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, serves as a key hub for PLGA adoption and innovation. Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly integrating PLGA into their product pipelines to develop controlled-release formulations for a wide array of therapeutics, including small molecules, biologics, and nucleic acid-based drugs. Moreover, advancements in PLGA manufacturing technologies and the emergence of novel applications beyond drug delivery, such as tissue engineering scaffolds and medical implants, further propel market expansion.

The key players profiled in the report include Evonik (Germany), Corbion NV (Netherlands), Ashland (US), Mitsui Chemicals (Japan), Jinan Digang Bioengineering Co., Ltd. (China), Merck (Germany), Akina, Inc. (US), Nomisma Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. (India), Bezwada Biomedical, LLC (US), CD Bioparticles (US).

Browse Adjacent Market: Green Bio Chemicals Market Research Reports & Consulting

Related Reports:

Biodegradable Plastics Market - GLOBAL FORECAST TO 2028

Bioresorbable Polymers Market - GLOBAL FORECAST TO 2027

About MarketsandMarkets

MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report.

MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients.

Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes.

The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing.

Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry.

To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Contact:

Mr. Aashish Mehra

MarketsandMarkets INC.

630 Dundee Road

Suite 430

Northbrook, IL 60062

USA: +1-888-600-6441

Email: [email protected]

Research Insights:

Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/

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Research Insights: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/plga-market.asp

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SOURCE MarketsandMarkets
New stamp issued on Manatee Appreciation Day

SILVER SPRINGS, Fla., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- It's Manatee Appreciation Day! The U.S. Postal Service celebrated the occasion by dedicating its new Save Manatees stamp here today beside a clear, warm spring that the marine mammals frequent.

"Postage stamps are miniature works of art designed to reflect the American experience," said Lisa Bobb-Semple, Stamp Services director for USPS. "It is our hope that these stamps bring further awareness to the plight of this beautiful animal."

Postal Service Hopes Stamp Will Help Save Manatees.

The manatee is a large, gray aquatic mammal with a wrinkled face and whiskered snout. It has a flat, paddle-shaped tail and two flippers with three or four nails on each one. Its closest land relative is the elephant.

It is considered one of Florida's keystone species, whose behavior can alert researchers to environmental and habitat changes that may otherwise go unnoticed in the state's waterways.

"I am honored to be here celebrating this magnificent new manatee stamp," said Patrick Rose, executive director of the Save the Manatee Club, which has worked for more than 40 years to support and advocate for the mammals. "This adorable stamp will increase awareness and hopefully encourage people to learn how they can help save manatees, too."

Within the United States, manatees are concentrated in Florida in the winter. In summer, they can be found as far west as Texas and as far north as Massachusetts, but summer sightings in the southern states are more common. They can be found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, estuaries, saltwater bays, canals and coastal areas  particularly where seagrass beds or freshwater vegetation flourish.

Florida manatees were first protected under state law in 1893 and are covered by the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act. On a federal level, they are protected by both the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act.

Manatees were reclassified from endangered to threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act in May 2017.

Threats

Though protected by laws, manatees still face considerable threats. They are often accidentally hit by motorboats in increasingly crowded waters and can become entangled in fishing nets. Water pollution is killing the sea grass they rely on for food.

Since 1974, more than 41 percent of manatee deaths have been human related  34 percent due to watercraft collisions.

Silver Springs Manatee Cameras

Save the Manatee Club has video cameras above and under the water in Silver Springs State Park. You can view the above water video feed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxnehowX-9Y and the underwater video feed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPqPFZMGTF8. A special highlight reel can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94bKfESuqkU.

Design

On this stamp, a West Indian manatee gently lolls underwater, just beneath ripples on the surface. Many types of hungry freshwater fish clean algae off a manatee's skin, and the West Indian manatee on the stamp is accompanied by two such fish.

Illustrated by Nancy Stahl, the vertical stamp's art is predominantly aqua-colored, with the manatee's body rendered in shades falling between pale green and gray. At the top left of the stamp, the words "forever usa" appear in lowercase sans serif italics. "MANATEE" is printed in rounded capital block letters in pale aqua.

The booklet cover features an enlarged crop of the stamp artwork, with the words "SAVE MANATEES" in white capitals.

Derry Noyes, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp and booklet using Stahl's digital illustration.

Postal Products

Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon.

Please Note: The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable, and secure delivery of mail and packages to 167 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America, to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America's most valued and trusted brands.

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom. Follow us on X, Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel and like us on Facebook. For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com.

Contact: Sue Brennan

202.285.9433

[email protected]

usps.com/news

SOURCE U.S. Postal Service
WASHINGTON, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Qorvis announces the appointment of Al Black to the position of Partner, Technology and Public Sector. A leader in technology and public sector communications, Black brings a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives for technology companies supporting federal, defense, state and local, and other public sector entities to build market share, improve visibility, expand brand awareness, and influence stakeholders.

With Al Black, Qorvis expands its already formidable public sector and technology presence. Post this Al Black, Partner, Technology & Public Sector, Qorvis

With over 20 years of experience in print, broadcast, and new media relations, Black has led account teams for companies including Adobe, Alion Science & Technology, Cisco, ITT Defense, Lockheed Martin, Harris Corporation, Network Solutions, Oracle, and United Technologies, as well as the Kuwait Ministry of Defense.

Black rejoined Qorvis in 2023 after working at the agency for over a decade, where he led accounts in sectors including technology, public sector, defense, healthcare, and education.

"Qorvis has seen first-hand the impact of both existing and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud, social media, and others on government organizations and their stakeholders," explains Matt J. Lauer, Chief Executive Officer of Qorvis. "With Al Black, Qorvis expands its already formidable public sector presence to guide technology companies and organizations through this rapidly growing and evolving terrain. His extensive experience in this sector will enable organizations to make the most of these opportunities both nationally and worldwide."

"I'm excited to return to Qorvis to help companies effectively communicate to their constituents how to responsibly leverage the new faces of technology to fulfill their missions, meet business objectives, and provide citizen services," says Al Black. "This is a time of enormous possibilities for the company that shares the promise and hope of technology, and Qorvis is well positioned to help them do that."

Previously, Black held executive marketing and communications leadership roles at energy tech startup Faraday Grid LTD., the Urban Institute, Stratos Global Corporation (a satellite communications company), and OneSoft Corporation (an international e-commerce software company), as well as public affairs agencies.

Black has promoted solutions incorporating genAI, SaaS, e-commerce, big data, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data warehousing, Internet of Things, and other technologies.

Over his career, Black has worked in a variety of vertical markets including civilian public sector, national defense, telecommunications, oil and gas, air and space, finance, and healthcare. Black's holistic approach to public relations goes beyond traditional media outlets and includes speaking engagements, analyst relations, industry awards, social media, tradeshow support and customer/constituent retention programs.

Black has earned coverage in national outlets including The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, Fast Company, WIRED, Fox News, and CNN. He has also gained significant exposure in trade publications and industry blogs.

Black holds a B.A. in Political Science from Franklin & Marshall College.

For more information on Qorvis or how we can help you navigate the year ahead, visit www.qorvis.com.

SOURCE Qorvis Holding Inc.




When a story appeared on the front page of one of Britain's most established newspapers accusing China, Russia and Iran of working to destabilize the UK by undermining confidence in its constitutional monarchy by using social media to troll the wife of the heir to the British throne, readers could be forgiven for thinking it was a joke. How could anything so absurd, so risible, be taken seriously? Sadly, it was not a joke. There it was, the "splash" in the Daily Telegraph, one of the UK's right-wing newspapers, claiming that the three bogeymen of Western geopolitical thought had targeted Kate, the Princess of Wales, the wife of Prince William, heir to the reigning King Charles III.

They were accused of helping to fuel wild conspiracy theories about the princess's absence from public life for a prolonged period. It is now known that her non-appearance at official events was due to poor health, including a diagnosis of cancer. Before this was made public, social media conspiracists were promoting lies and rumors about her supposed "disappearance". Even after the truth emerged, the online antagonists kept up their grim work.

Then on Monday the Telegraph story appeared, addressing the issue of conspiracy theories and disinformation, with a story which itself was loaded with conspiracy theory and disinformation.

The "facts" supporting its allegations against China, Russia and Iran seemed thin. The allegations were substantiated by anonymous government or Whitehall "sources" who gave anodyne, imprecise comments which could have been used in almost any story about social media abuse. Nowhere did the "sources" categorically name China, Russia or Iran - or specify any hostile state actors outside of the UK actually participating in the hysterical online rumor mill surrounding the princess. On close examination, the reliability of the story dissipates like mist in the morning sun.

Ironically, the Telegraph's government source warned that state adversaries work to "destabilise things - whether that is undermining the legitimacy of our elections or other institutions". It is widely believed that before the year is out, Britain will have gone to the polls in a general election, and the integrity of the voting process and public confidence will be very telling of the electorate's faith in the system.

But that faith, that critical public confidence, is currently already at an all time low. The UK's Office for National Statistics recently found that the British public's trust of its political parties stood at just 12 percent, of the government at just 27 percent, and of parliament at just 24 percent. At times like this, it is very convenient for politicians to be able to boost their own credibility by pointing to alleged outside threats as a useful distraction. For them, China, Russia and Iran slip into these roles as easily as a hand into a glove, and stories such as the Telegraph's play into that narrative.

It was no accident that the story alleging an outside state attack on the Princess of Wales came on the morning of a major announcement by the British government which was almost designed to appeal to domestic China hawks. Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden told the House of Commons that China had waged "malicious" cyber campaigns against members of parliament and the Electoral Commission, the UK's voting watchdog. To counter these campaigns, he said that sanctions would be placed against two individuals and a company deemed responsible. Some of the data allegedly stolen contained the names and addresses of more than 40 million voters - yet these are accessible to almost anyone in publicly available documents.

Dowden was certain of China's involvement: "The cyber threat posed by China-affiliated actors is real and it is serious."

However, a simultaneous statement issued by Britain's National Cyber Security Centre, a division of the UK's GCHQ eavesdropping and snooping organization, said only that China was "almost certainly" responsible, stopping short of unequivocally apportioning blame. It also pointed out that the alleged interception of MPs' emails occurred three years ago. Perhaps it is only another coincidence that the allegations are becoming public only now, and the government's response gives the impression of being tough on a potential adversary, in an election year.

There is a pattern of negative media reporting about China which directly affects public perceptions and in turn helps shape the British state's foreign policy positions. In recent weeks, there have been many examples of distorted, disingenuous and hypocritical coverage of China.

Recent research at King's College, London, shows this type of media behavior reinforces and contributes to extensive negative views about China, resulting in more hawkish policies toward China - something which is "in line with the interests of lobbyists and politicians inside and outside government who favor that approach".

Stories like this appearing in the Telegraph are part of the process, and while they appear superficially shocking - and on examination perhaps comical - they form part of a tapestry of propaganda which moulds public perceptions and attitudes which may well suit the politicians that seek power, but which serves the citizenry poorly. It's called propaganda.

- Global Times
Booth #715 to feature Quantic's portfolio of space-ready RF, encoder, magnetic and capacitor solutions

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Quantic Electronics ("Quantic"), today announced that it will exhibit at the 2024 Space Symposium, the premier space industry event hosted at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO, April 8-11. Representatives from Quantic and its businesses Quantic BEI, Quantic ECI, Quantic Eulex, Quantic Evans, Quantic Paktron and Quantic UTC will be available at Booth #715 to showcase our space-qualified components, including RF and microwave technology solutions, optical encoders, capacitors and magnetics.

Quantic offers a comprehensive and rapidly expanding portfolio of RF & Microwave, power, sensing and magnetic solutions optimize for the most demanding, mission-critical applications. Highlights at the Space Symposium show will include:

Quantic Electronics to exhibit at the Space Symposium, Booth #715 featuring RF, encoder, magnetic & capacitor solutions. Post this

The most advanced optical encoders and encoder-based motion-control systems, including ARA, MKE and Tracker optical encoder solutions

Our broad array of capacitor technologies, from multilayer polymer film capacitors and multilayer ceramic capacitors and assemblies, to the industry's most power-dense, hybrid wet tantalum capacitors

High-reliability custom magnetic solutions, from fully qualified MIL- STD-981 devices constructed by our J-STD-001FS certified operators, to commercial space components

devices constructed by our J-STD-001FS certified operators, to commercial space components A collaborative integrated demo in ESI Motion Booth #717 for Space applications: including an optical encoder, DC motor and controller featuring solutions from Quantic BEI's MKE, ESI Motion's controllers and Thin Gap's DC Motor

Exhibition Information:

Monday, April 8 : 7:30 p.m.9:00 p.m.

: 7:30 p.m.9:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 9 : 9:00 a.m.7:00 p.m.

: 9:00 a.m.7:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 10 : 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.

: 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. Thursday, April 11 : 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.

The Space Symposium brings together space leaders from around the world to discuss, address, and plan for the future of space. This event has become widely recognized as the premier U.S. space policy and program forum, and the optimal event for information and interaction among all sectors of space.

To schedule a meeting, contact Quantic at [email protected] or learn more at www.quanticnow.com

About Quantic Electronics

Quantic is an electronic component company focused on defining and delivering the future of mission-critical electronics. We have over a century of combined experience as reliable problem-solvers and trusted partners in military, aerospace, industrial and commercial markets. For more information, visit www.quanticnow.com.

Media Inquiry:

Bailey Karfelt

Marketing Director

[email protected]

www.quanticnow.com

SOURCE Quantic Electronics
RENO, Nev., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Assist2Sell, a pioneering real estate company founded on principles of affordability, transparency, and simplicity, today reaffirms its commitment to transforming the real estate process in light of the recent proposed settlement by the National Association of REALTORS ("NAR") of antitrust lawsuits brought against NAR and other real estate companies. The settlement and its proposed policy changes could have a wide-ranging impact on commission structures in the real estate industry.

Assist2Sell believes consumers will benefit most from a proposed MLS policy change which would eliminate the practice of sellers offering to pay a commission to the buyer's agent. NAR may have been influenced to include this concession by the position which the U.S. Department of Justice ("DOJ") recently expressed in an amicus brief filed in another similar lawsuit (Nosalek v. MLS PIN). In this case, the DOJ offered this advice: "To address the competitive problem alleged by Plaintiffs, the Settling Parties could agree to an injunction that prohibits offers of buyer-broker compensation by MLS PIN participants."

The proposed settlement has brought to the forefront the critical importance of consumer choice and the need for clear information in real estate transactions. Assist2Sell has long championed a consumer-first approach, offering low-fee real estate services that save homeowners significant amounts in commission costs without compromising the quality of service.

Unlike traditional real estate models that rely on legacy commission structures, which often inflate costs for both sellers and buyers, Assist2Sell promotes a straightforward and transparent fee structure. This approach not only offers clients substantial savings but also ensures they benefit from full-service real estate expertise.

Assist2Sell is unique in that it advertises its fees. "We are proud to be offering such low fees. Why keep it a secret?" said Ryan Elliott COO at Assist2Sell. "We believe the recent settlement will produce positive changes in the market, encouraging more competitive pricing and service models that prioritize homeowners' interests."

Assist2Sell welcomes a future where home ownership is achievable without the burden of excessive fees, opening the door to a more transparent, affordable, and consumer-friendly real estate experience.

About Assist2Sell

With offices across the US and Canada, Assist2Sell is the leading "Full Service with $avings!" real estate company dedicated to providing homeowners with a cost-effective, full-service alternative to outdated legacy real estate commissions. For more information, visit www.Assist2Sell.com

Contact:

Ryan Elliott

COO

Assist-2-Sell, Inc.

800.528.7816

[email protected]

SOURCE Assist2Sell, Inc.
Women Mean Business Wants WBOs To Grow Their Businesses

CHICAGO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the 2024 Impact of Woman-Owned Businesses report released this past January, woman owned businesses are increasingly powering the economy representing 39.1% of all businesses  over 14 million  employing 12.2 million workers and generating $2.7 trillion in revenue.

According to the report's data, woman owned businesses are growing at twice the rate of their male counterparts. Not only are their businesses expanding more quickly, women owned businesses are reaching into a wider range of industries too. The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Chicago Chapter is one of the region's only membership-based organizations that welcomes all female entrepreneurs from any business size, industry and at any point on their female entrepreneurship journey for the purpose of helping them grow.

Join NAWBO Chicago and women business owners from Chicagoland, Wisconsin and Northwest Indiana for Women Mean Business  NAWBO Chicago's Regional Entrepreneurial Conference & 41st Annual Fundraiser on Thursday, April 25 from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm at the Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center. This year's theme of "Women Mean Business" focuses on inspiring female entrepreneurs to make investments in themselves and grow their businesses. The all-day conference will offer 13 sessions on current topics critical to business owners, in-person networking, the Keynote address by Alex Batdorf, awards ceremony and the Chocolate & Cocktail Reception.

"Recent data showcases the profound transformative impact of women business owners across diverse industries, while driving innovation and fostering economic growth," said Cheryl Vargas, NAWBO Chicago President and Creative in Chief of Studio 928 in La Grange. "NAWBO Chicago stands committed to our pledge to empower women entrepreneurs within our region, enabling them to transcend mere operations and pioneer paths for unprecedented growth."

The public is invited to attend. Don't delay  visit nawbo.org/chicago for more information.

2024 Award Recipients:

Member of the Year Award: Melissa McAtee, elbe creative partners & Cathie Van Wert, Double Take Design (Co-Leaders of NAWBO Chicago's Advocacy Committee)

Next Gen Award: Trisha Beltran, JMB Innovative Business Solutions

Visionary Award: Mary Balistreri, MBT More Business Today

Woman Business Owner of the Year Award: Isoken Ogbomo, Complete Health Service

Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award: Lindrea Reynolds, LR Brand Consulting

CONTACT: Cat Donovan, [email protected]

SOURCE National Association of Women Business Owners
New Affordable Energy for New Jersey Public Opinion Survey Details Residents Thoughts on Energy Preferences

SPRINGFIELD, N.J., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A recently conducted public opinion survey finds that an overwhelming majority of New Jersey residents prefer natural gas to heat their homes and power their appliances. A research poll from Affordable Energy for New Jersey conducted earlier this month of nearly 1200 registered New Jersey voters revealed that 76 percent view natural gas as a favorable energy source. Of those surveyed, 67 percent also favor natural gas over electricity.

Based on survey results. Based on survey results.

When asked if all homes should be required to transition from natural gas to electric heat, 61 percent were opposed.

"The results of this opinion survey clearly show that regulators and legislators are out of touch as to what New Jersey residents energy preferences are, said Ron Morano, Affordable Energy for New Jersey executive director. "We need sound energy policy that includes reliable, affordable and realistic choices not unrealistic, expensive mandates."

The survey also included a question about an Energy Information Administration calculation that showed getting 100 percent of the state's power from wind and solar could increase monthly by at least four times the current amount. Nearly 80 percent said they would be opposed to the increase.

Nearly 60 percent of residents also oppose New Jersey wasting millions of taxpayer dollars to stop natural gas pipeline projects.

Residents preferred natural gas, solar and nuclear as New Jersey's primary energy source with 22 percent choosing natural gas, 22 percent solar, 21 percent nuclear and 20 percent undecided. Only 6 percent preferred wind.

"The numbers in this survey show clear support of natural gas. Before the Board of Public Utilities goes back to the drawing board to update the Energy Master Plan, they need to listen to New Jersey residents, not come back with more of the same," added Morano.

Detailed Polling Book Can Be Found HERE: Must Be Credited to Affordable Energy for New Jersey.

About Affordable Energy for New Jersey:

Affordable Energy for New Jersey (AENJ) is a broad, grassroots coalition that advocates for actionable, fact-driven energy policy that emphasizes keeping costs low for our residents and businesses and evaluates energy policies and proposals based by asking the following three questions: Is It Feasible? Is It reliable? What Does It Cost?

SOURCE Affordable Energy for New Jersey
NEW YORK, March 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of common stock of agilon health, inc. (NYSE: AGL): (i) pursuant and/or traceable to the offering documents issued in connection with the Company's May 2023 secondary public offering (the "SPO" or "Offering"); and/or (ii) between January 9, 2023 and January 4, 2024, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than May 20, 2024.

SO WHAT: If you purchased agilon securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the agilon class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=23637 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than May 20, 2024. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period and in the SPO Materials, defendants misled investors about agilon's medical costs by: (1) touting agilon's purported visibility into utilization trends and medical costs; (2) failing to disclose increased medical costs that agilon had incurred prior to and during the Class Period due to higher utilization of healthcare by Medicare Advantage ("MA") patients; (3) falsely stating that its accounting reserves for higher-than-expected medical costs were adequate; (4) making false and misleading statements about the effectiveness of its business model; (5) issuing overly optimistic financial guidance; and (6) issuing risk disclosures that were materially false and misleading because they characterized adverse facts that had already materialized as mere possibilities. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the agilon class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=23637 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A.
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of JBS S.A. (OTC: JBSAY) resulting from allegations that JBS may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

SO WHAT: If you purchased JBS securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=22976 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On February 28, 2024, Reuters published an article entitled "New York sues meatpacking giant JBS over climate claims." The article stated, in pertinent part, that "JBS, the world's largest beef producer, was sued on Wednesday by New York state's attorney general, which accused it of misleading the public about its impact on the environment in order to boost sales. Attorney General Letitia James said JBS USA Food Co, the Brazilian company's American-based unit, has "no viable plan" to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, making its stated commitment to achieving that goal false and misleading."

On this news, JBS' American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs") fell $0.22 per ADR, or 2.4%, to close at $9.02 per ADR on February 28, 2024.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A.
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Canada Goose Holdings Inc. ("Canada Goose" or the "Company") (NYSE: GOOS). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Canada Goose and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On March 26, 2024, Canada Goose issued a press release announcing the "reduction of approximately 17% of corporate roles" as part of a transformation program, including, among other things, the departure of the Company's Chief Operating Officer.

On this news, Canada Goose's stock price fell $0.81 per share, or 6.79%, to close at $11.12 per share on March 26, 2024.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

Danielle Peyton

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

646-581-9980 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of JBS S.A. ("JBS" or the "Company") (OTC: JBSAY). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether JBS and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On February 28, 2024, Reuters published an article entitled "New York sues meatpacking giant JBS over climate claims." The article reported, in relevant part, that New York State's Attorney General has "accused [JBS] of misleading the public about its impact on the environment in order to boost sales. Attorney General Letitia James said JBS USA Food Co, the Brazilian company's American-based unit, has 'no viable plan' to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, making its stated commitment to achieving that goal false and misleading."

On this news, JBS's American Depositary Receipt ("ADR") price fell $0.22 per share, or 2.38%, to close at $9.02 per share on February 28, 2024.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

Danielle Peyton

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

646-581-9980 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Purcell & Lefkowitz LLP announces that it is investigating Core Molding Technologies, Inc. (NYSE American: CMT) on behalf of the company's shareholders. The investigation seeks to determine whether Core Molding Technologies's directors breached their fiduciary duties in connection with recent corporate actions.

If you are a shareholder of Core Molding Technologies, Inc. and are interested in obtaining additional information about your rights and options, please visit us at: https://pjlfirm.com/core-molding-technologies-inc/

You may also contact Robert H. Lefkowitz, Esq. either via email at [email protected] or by telephone at 212-725-1000. One of our attorneys will personally speak with you about the case at no cost or obligation.

Purcell & Lefkowitz LLP is a law firm exclusively committed to representing shareholders nationwide who are victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty and other types of corporate misconduct. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit https://pjlfirm.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

SOURCE Purcell & Lefkowitz LLP
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SOCOTEC USA, a leading provider of TIC (Testing, Inspection, and Certification), consulting, and advisory services with a strategic focus on buildings and infrastructure, announces its collaboration with Bisnow to educate audiences on reduction of carbon emissions within the built environment.

Nearly 42% of all carbon released into the air stems from global building emissions. As the industry increasingly recognizes the significance of embodied carbon, SOCOTEC stands at the forefront, guiding owners, and project teams towards sustainable practices. Andrew Graceffa, Principal and Energy Services Director at SOCOTEC, stresses the urgency, stating, "[t]o alleviate the climate crisis, it is increasingly important for the architectural and engineering industry to address embodied carbon. In short, they are emitted on Day 1. You only get one shot to address reductions."

SOCOTEC Teams Up with Bisnow to Confront Carbon Emissions in the Built Environment & Explore a Safer Sustainable Future Post this

Jesse Rittenhouse, Director of Strategy at SOCOTEC, emphasized the importance of preparedness for sustainability regulation changes, stating, "We understand that we have a clock on this issue, so having these conversations about reducing carbon and acting expeditiously and effectively is critical. Thankfully, with our repertoire of lessons learned on past projects coupled with the niche skill set of our team of experts, we are able to provide sound advice to owners, developers and project teams to provide just this."

To effectively tackle embodied carbon emissions, SOCOTEC conducts comprehensive whole-building life cycle assessment.

Though assessing environmental impact poses its challenges due to the lack of universally accepted ESG performance measures, Rittenhouse emphasizes that the regulatory landscape is evolving to prioritize carbon emission reductions: Initiatives such as the Securities and Exchange Commission's disclosure requirements and ASHRAE's forthcoming standards guide operational and embodied carbon emissions assessments for proposed and existing projects.

In addition, cities like New York City and Boston are setting the standard with regulations such as Local Law 97 and the Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance, which enforce carbon benchmarking and emissions reduction goals. SOCOTEC is dedicated to aiding clients in adapting to and meeting evolving sustainability criteria.

SOCOTEC's team of environmental experts possesses the expertise to analyze complex data and drive sustainable solutions. With a diverse portfolio encompassing various asset types globally, SOCOTEC is actively involved in projects aimed at improving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.

"We have a number of projects across the country, especially in the New York City and Miami areas, that are being worked on in various consultation phases, whether it be existing building assessments or improvement plans," Graceffa said. "We assist clients throughout the entire process, from concept to completion and into post-occupancy."

To read the full article, go to Bisnow.com.

The full article was produced in collaboration between SOCOTEC, Bisnow, and Studio B staff. Studio B is Bisnow's in-house content and design studio. To learn more about how Studio B can help your team, reach out to [email protected]. Contact Studio B Writer Emily DeNardo at [email protected].

About SOCOTEC

The SOCOTEC Group, headed by Herve Montjotin, has built its reputation as an independent, trusted partner assisting companies in the areas of quality, sustainability and safety, and the environment.

Today a leading $1.3 billion EUR company that more than doubled in size in 6 years, SOCOTEC's mission is to ensure the integrity and performance of building and infrastructure assets and people's safety. Through its inspection and measurement, assistance and consultancy, training, and certification services, SOCOTEC helps to optimize the performance of companies in every sector by managing the risks inherent in their activities. Drawing on its expertise and positioning itself as a long-term partner, SOCOTEC supports its clients throughout their project's lifecycle.

As a major player in TIC for the building and infrastructure sectors, the SOCOTEC Group has 200,000 clients with operations in 26 countries, 11,500 employees and over 250 external recognitions.

SOCOTEC, an industry leader in the building and infrastructure sectors, offers the combined highly technical expertise of an expansive and holistic network of experts across six service lines: (i) Building Envelope; (ii) Energy & Sustainability; (iii) Code & Planning; (iv) Life Safety; (v) Project Advisory; (vi) Dispute Resolution; and (vii) Specialty Engineering. In the USA, SOCOTEC employs approximately 550 professionals in more than 25 offices.

Visit www.socotec.us for more information.

SOURCE SOCOTEC
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sol de Janeiro, the vibrant beauty brand with a mission to spread the joy of Brazilian-inspired beauty and self-celebration worldwide, has introduced its global Rio Radiance SPF 50 Sunscreen Collection featuring media personality and model Sofia Richie Grainge. Starring as the face of the brand's "Sunscreen Worthy of Your Skin" campaign, Richie Grainge embodies the mission of the collection and campaign to address diverse sun protection needs, while providing immediate nourishment and radiance. The Rio Radiance SPF 50 Sunscreen Collection offers three formats and finishes: Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Lotion, Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray, and Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Oil, providing a variety of choices to suit every preference!

Sofia Richie Grainge in "Sunscreen Worthy of Your Skin" Campaign

Founded in 2015 on the philosophy of embracing the power and warmth of the Brazilian spirit, Sol de Janeiro's collection of body care, fragrance, and hair care products has become a worldwide sensation. The brand celebrates confidence in soft, glowing skin across its product range from body care to bath and shower, now expanded into sun care with the Rio Radiance SPF 50 Sunscreen Collection. This lightweight sun care collection is designed for an incredible skin feel, providing natural radiance. With broad spectrum SPF 50 for strong sun protection, all three products deeply hydrate and soften the skin without any greasy residue. Sol de Janeiro invites its community to enjoy the nostalgic beachy scent of solar tuberose and leite de coco with this collection.

In partnership with renowned creative agency Chandelier Creative, the campaign was produced by Photobomb, shot by Dan Beleiu, and directed by Warren Fu. The "Sunscreen Worthy of Your Skin" film and photography campaign stars Sofia Richie Grainge as a sun goddess embarking on her quest to become one with her fiery infatuation, the sun. Inspired by 1960s and 1970s pulp movie trailers, Sofia's comedic quest to fly closer to the sun is brought to life within an immersive, sunny set reflecting the Sol de Janeiro brand.

"We're excited to have Sofia Richie Grainge as the face of our Rio Radiance SPF 50 collection launch campaign, 'Sunscreen Worthy of Your Skin'," said Heela Yang, CEO & Co-Founder of Sol de Janeiro. "Sofia embodies our belief in head-to-toe body care and our mission to spread joy and self-celebration worldwide. With the Rio Radiance SPF 50 Collection, we're ushering in a new era for our brand, highlighting how everyone deserves sunscreen that not only protects and nourishes the skin but also gives an all-over glow."

"I'm thrilled to partner with Sol de Janeiro for their 'Sunscreen Worthy of Your Skin' campaign," says Sofia Richie Grainge. "Working with the brand feels natural to me as Sol de Janeiro's mission of self-celebration aligns with what I share with my community. I love how the campaign and the Rio Radiance SPF 50 collection promote both skin protection and beauty." Richie Grainge continues, "I adore every product! They feel and look amazing on my skin, and the scent instantly transports me to the beach!"

+++

About Rio Radiance SPF 50 Sunscreen Collection

RIO RADIANCE SPF 50 BODY LOTION ILLUMINATING SUNSCREEN

A soft radiance. This SPF 50 body lotion visibly evens skin tone while it moisturizes.

RIO RADIANCE SPF 50 BODY SPRAY REFRESHING SUNSCREEN

A natural sheen. This SPF 50 body spray refreshes and hydrates skin.

RIO RADIANCE SPF 50 BODY OIL SHIMMERING SUNSCREEN

The ultimate glow. This SPF 50 body oil visibly brightens and nourishes without feeling greasy.

About Sol de Janeiro

Inspired by the power and warmth of the Brazilian spirit, Sol de Janeiro stands for ultimate self-love and celebration. Embracing the authentic Brazilian beauty philosophy of loving and flaunting your body, Sol de Janeiro was founded in 2015. The brand's award-winning collection of body care, fragrance, and hair care is known for luscious textures, clinically proven formulations, and transportive fragrances. Beloved by multi-generational global consumers, Sol de Janeiro is available at premium international retailers as well as on its own website.

Loving and celebrating our bodies brings joy, power, and positivitywhich makes the world a warmer and happier place. If you need inspiration to celebrate yourself, there is an undeniable connection between Sol de Janeiro and confidence.

It is time to flaunt what makes you feel like you.

LOVE IT. FLAUNT IT. YOU'VE GOT IT.

Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Sol de Janeiro
COLUMBIA, Mo., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- StorageMart, a globally recognized family-owned leader in the self-storage industry, is pleased to announce the inauguration of four strategically located facilities in the United States. Targeting substantial growth in 2024, StorageMart expanded its network to include new locations in Iowa and Virginia, reinforcing its presence in established markets.

StorageMart acquires a new facility in Urbandale, IA. The latest addition to the StorageMart portfolio in Fredericksburg, VA.

These two state-of-the-art facilities, located in Fredericksburg, VA and Urbandale, IA, have a large inventory of storage available. The Fredericksburg acquisition includes 466 storage units and 66,675 square feet, while the Urbandale acquisition adds 393 storage units and 52,595 square feet of premium rentable space. StorageMart's unwavering commitment to providing unparalleled convenience and innovative storage solutions is reshaping industry standards. From drive-up and climate controlled storage to generously sized spaces tailored for boats and RVs, StorageMart's expansion represents a significant boon for local communities.

Alex Burnam, Senior Vice President of Real Estate Acquisitions, conveyed his excitement regarding this strategic expansion, remarking, "These acquisitions underscore our dedication to expanding our operations and fulfilling the storage requirements of the communities we serve. Our existing portfolio has consistently excelled in these regions, and we are confident that these latest additions will seamlessly integrate with our established presence in those markets."

The newly acquired properties will undergo enhancements to align with StorageMart's exacting standards, including upgraded security measures, motion-sensitive LED lighting, and pavement repairs. Furthermore, these sites will undergo comprehensive renovations to ensure they uphold StorageMart's commitment to seamless, clean service. With its bold expansion plans for 2024, StorageMart is not merely setting goals; it is heralding a transformative era in the storage landscape.

About StorageMart:

As the world's largest privately-owned self storage company, StorageMart provides clean, well-lit storage units and friendly customer service. Through the "Store it Forward" charitable giving program, StorageMart actively gives back to the communities it serves. Learn more at https://www.storage-mart.com .

Contact: Sarah Little

573.449.0091

[email protected]

SOURCE StorageMart
CHICAGO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Arizton's latest research report, the industrial laundry machine market is growing at a CAGR of 5.82% from 2023 to 2029.

To Know More, Click: https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/industrial-laundry-machine-market

Industrial Laundry Machine Market& Research Report by Arizton

Browse in-depth TOC on the Industrial Laundry Machine Market

364  Pages

117 - Tables

78- Figures

Industrial Laundry Machine Market Report Scope

Report Attributes Details Market Size (2029) USD 4.16 Billion Market Size (2023) USD 2.96 Billion CAGR (2023-2029) 5.82 % Historic Year 2019-2022 Base Year 2023 Forecast Year 2024-2029 Market Segmentation Products, Applications, Capacity, Sales Channel, Technology, and Geography Geographic Analysis North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa Market Dynamics Rising demand from the Healthcare and Hospitality Sector

Global Urbanization and Industrialization

Rising Focus on Operational Efficiency

The industrial laundry machines market is intricately connected to global economic shifts, regional industry dynamics, and evolving consumer preferences. Traditional sectors, such as hospitality and healthcare, and emerging trends, including sustainability and technological innovation, drive the demand. As businesses worldwide recalibrate operations post-pandemic, the industrial laundry machines market remains pivotal in ensuring hygiene, efficiency, and sustainability across diverse industries.

The growing demand for energy-efficient and water-saving machines is a significant catalyst propelling the expansion of the global industrial laundry machine market. This trend reflects a broader shift in industries toward sustainable practices and operational efficiency. The adoption of energy-efficient and water-saving machines is particularly evident in response to environmental concerns, regulatory pressures, and the desire for cost savings across various sectors relying on industrial laundry services.

One key driver for the increased demand for energy-efficient machines is the global emphasis on sustainability. For instance, MAG Laundry Equipment recently introduced a series of industrial washing machines with capacities spanning from 25kg to 150kg. According to the company, these newly unveiled machines claim enhanced speed and reduced noise levels, potentially leading to a 60% reduction in utility expenses. The latest offerings from MAG Laundry Equipment include various drum capacities, including 25kg, 39kg, 50kg, 65kg, 85kg, and 100kg. In addition, the company provides heavy-duty commercial and industrial models ranging from 8kg to 150kg, ensuring efficient and prompt laundry processing for various needs.

Direct Channel Booming the Market Sales

The direct sales channel in the industrial laundry machine market connects manufacturers directly with end-users, providing a transparent and efficient distribution channel. This approach involves manufacturers selling their products directly to businesses without intermediaries, allowing for more personalized interaction and a direct line of communication. The scale of industrial operations influences the dynamics of the direct sales channel, the need for customization, and the importance of establishing strong client relationships.

Countries with robust industrial and commercial sectors, such as the US, Germany, China, and Japan, significantly contribute to the global market for industrial laundry machines through direct sales channels. In these countries, the direct approach aligns with the preferences of large-scale industrial operations that often require customized solutions and personalized service.

Countries expected to witness growth in the direct sales channel for industrial laundry machines include those with a booming industrial and commercial sector, such as countries in APAC, including India, China, and Indonesia. These countries are expected to demand tailored solutions and emphasize building strong client relationships.

Notable M&A Deals in the Industrial Laundry Machine Market:

2022: Alliance Laundry Systems acquires Primus Laundry Systems, a leading provider of high-quality laundry equipment for the hospitality industry.

2021: Girbau Industrial acquires IPSO, a significant player in the industrial laundry machine market, expanding its presence in the European market.

2020: UniMac acquires Rykon, a manufacturer of automated laundry systems, to enhance its offerings in the automation segment.

2019: Speed Queen acquires Cissell Laundry Systems, a leading provider of laundry solutions for the healthcare industry, expanding its product offerings in this sector.

Key Market Developments

Increasing demand from healthcare, hospitality, and commercial sectors for high-quality laundry services.

Rising adoption of sustainable and energy-efficient laundry equipment to reduce operating costs and environmental impact.

Rising adoption of sustainable and energy-efficient laundry equipment to reduce operating costs and environmental impact.

Emerging markets such as APAC and Latin America are witnessing rapid urbanization and industrialization, driving the demand for industrial laundry machines.

The Industrial Laundry Machine Market Encompasses Crucial Data, Including:

CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) during the forecast period: This metric provides insights into the annual growth rate of the industrial laundry machine market over the specified time frame.

Detailed information on growth drivers: The report offers in-depth information on the factors that will propel the industrial laundry machine market growth from 2023 to 2029. This includes an analysis of various market influences.

Precise estimation of market size: Accurate assessments of the industrial laundry machine market size and its contribution, focusing on key market segments.

Predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior: The report offers insights into anticipated trends and shifts in consumer behavior that are likely to impact the industrial laundry machine market, helping businesses prepare for future market dynamics.

Geographical market growth: The report covers the development of the industrial laundry machine market across different regions, including North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. This provides a comprehensive understanding of the market's global landscape.

Competitive landscape analysis: A thorough examination of the market's competitive landscape is presented, including detailed information about companies operating in the industrial laundry machine market. This includes an overview of key players, their market share, strategies, and key developments.

Analysis of growth challenges: The report includes a comprehensive analysis of factors that may pose challenges to the growth of companies in the industrial laundry machine market, providing a well-rounded view of the market dynamics.

Buy this Research @ https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/industrial-laundry-machine-market

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Key Company Profiles

Alliance Laundry System

Electrolux

GIRBAU

Herbert Kannegiesser

JENSEN-GROUP

Miele & Cie

American Dryer

ASAHI SEISAKUSHO

B&C Technologies

BOWE Textile Cleaning

Chicago Dryer Company

DEXTER LAUNDRY

EDRO Corporation

Fagor Professional

G.A. Braun

Genist Technocracy

Gottlob Stahl Waschereimaschinenbau

IFB Appliances

Jiangsu Sealion Machine Group

JLA Group

Lapauw International

Laundrylux

LAVATEC LAUNDRY TECHNOLOGY

Mag Laundry Equipment

ONNERA GRAN LAVANDERIA

Pellerin Milnor Corporation

Pony

TOLON

VEGA Systems Group

WASHCO

Whirlpool

Market Segmentation

Products

Washer & Extractor

Dryer

Ironer

Folder

Others

Application

Hospitality

Healthcare

Commercial Laundry

Manufacturing

Others

Capacity

Small

Medium

Large

Sales Channel

Direct Channel

Indirect Channel

Technology

Semi-automatic

Automatic

Geography

APAC

China



Japan



India



South Korea



Australia



Singapore



The Rest of APAC

Europe

Germany



France



The UK



Italy



Spain



Rest of Europe

North America

The US



Canada

Middle East & Africa

Saudi Arabia



The UAE



South Africa



Rest of the Middle East & Africa

& Latin America

Brazil



Mexico



Argentina



The Rest of Latin America

Key Questions Answered in the Report:

How big is the industrial laundry machine market?

What is the growth rate of the global industrial laundry machine market?

Which region dominates the global industrial laundry machine market share?

What are the significant trends in the industrial laundry machine industry?

Who are the key players in the global industrial laundry machine market?

Get the Detailed TOC @ https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/industrial-laundry-machine-market

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Arizton comprises a team of exuberant and well-experienced analysts who have mastered generating incisive reports. Our specialist analysts possess exemplary skills in market research. We train our team in advanced research practices, techniques, and ethics to outperform in fabricating impregnable research reports.

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SOURCE Arizton Advisory & Intelligence
NEW YORK, March 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Monteverde & Associates PC (the "M&A Class Action Firm"), has recovered money for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2018-2022 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are now investigating:

HomeStreet, Inc. (Nasdaq: HMST), relating to its proposed sale to FirstSun Capital Bancorp. Under the terms of the agreement, HMST shareholders are expected to receive 0.4345 shares of FirstSun common stock per share they own. Click here for more information: https://www.monteverdelaw.com/case/homestreet-inc. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.





relating to its proposed sale to FirstSun Capital Bancorp. Under the terms of the agreement, HMST shareholders are expected to receive 0.4345 shares of FirstSun common stock per share they own. Whole Earth Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq: FREE), relating to its proposed sale to affiliates of Sababa Holdings FREE, LLC. Under the terms of the agreement, FREE shareholders are expected to receive $4.875 in cash per share they own. Click here for more information: https://www.monteverdelaw.com/case/whole-earth-brands-inc. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.





relating to its proposed sale to affiliates of Sababa Holdings FREE, LLC. Under the terms of the agreement, FREE shareholders are expected to receive in cash per share they own. Everbridge, Inc. (Nasdaq: EVBG ) , relating to its proposed sale to Thoma Bravo . Under the terms of the agreement, EVBG shareholders will receive $28.60 in cash per share they own. Click here for more information: https://www.monteverdelaw.com/case/everbridge-inc. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.





, relating to its proposed sale to . Under the terms of the agreement, EVBG shareholders will receive in cash per share they own. Inhibrx, Inc. (Nasdaq: INBX ), relating to its proposed sale to Sanofi. Under the terms of the agreement, INBX shareholders are expected to receive $30.00 in cash and 0.25 shares of the newly combined company per share they own. Shareholders may also receive a plus one CVR worth up to $5.00 in cash contingent upon certain milestones. Click here for more information: https://www.monteverdelaw.com/case/inhibrx-inc . It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

Do you file class actions and go to Court? When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders? What cases did you recover money in and how much?

About Monteverde & Associates PC

Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholdersand we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in any of the above listed companies and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at [email protected] or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

Contact:

Juan Monteverde, Esq.

MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC

The Empire State Building

350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740

New York, NY 10118

United States of America

[email protected]

Tel: (212) 971-1341

Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC ( www.monteverdelaw.com ). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

SOURCE Monteverde & Associates PC
Elevation and Topography to be held June 21 and 22

PENINSULA, Ohio, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) will welcome guests to an extraordinary evening in the park when it hosts Elevation on June 21 and Topography on June 22. Both events are at iconic Indigo Lake, located off Riverview Road. Proceeds go toward the Trails Now Fund, which provides support for trail maintenance, visitor amenities, and new trailheads within Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Since the events began more than 12 years ago, Topography and Elevation have raised nearly $1.4 million for the park's more than 125 miles of trails.

"Our signature fundraisers, Elevation and Topography, are each a one-of-a-kind experience for people to come together and support the trails we love in our national park," said Dan Blakemore, vice president of philanthropy, for the Conservancy for CVNP. "We look forward to seeing you at these memorable events to enjoy time with good friends, great food, scenic views of Indigo Lake, live music, and campfires under the stars."

Elevation Topography A one-of-a-kind summer night that steps off with trail mix to complement your short hike to Indigo Lake. The party welcomes you with a steel drum band, activities in the meadow, a casual dinner via food trucks with beer and wine. The evening continues with dancing under the stars to Abby Normal and the Detroit Lean along with s'mores around the campfire. The evening begins at Howe Meadow with a short hike up a wooded path, a welcome cocktail in hand, and live music in the air. The trail ends at Indigo Lake, where you will enjoy a curated selection of hors d'oeuvres leading up to a one-of-a-kind dining experience with special wine pairings. Then, finish the evening with sweet bites around a crackling campfire. Evening catered by Spice Catering Co. Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 Date: Saturday, June 22, 2024 Time: 6:30pm  11:00pm Time: 6:30pm  11:00pm Cost: $100 per member ticket or $160 per non-member ($25 and $85, respectively, tax deductible) Cost: $350 per person ($130 tax deductible) For Tickets: www.forcvnp.org/elevation For Tickets: www.forcvnp.org/topography





For sponsorship opportunities for Elevation and Topography, please contact Dan Blakemore, vice president of philanthropy, at [email protected]. For questions about the events or to register to attend, contact [email protected] or call Jess Livers, philanthropy operations & membership manager, at 330-657-2909 ext. 166.

Sponsors To Date for Elevation

Presenting Sponsor: The Davey Tree Expert Company; Peak: Cargill; Cascade Subaru; R. Mark Daye; Eddy's Bike Shop; E&H Ace Hardware; The Sherwin-Williams Company; and Western Reserve Racing; Summit: ForTec Medical; and KeyBank; Base: American Farmland Trust; Dan and Maria Blakemore; and Mark and Stacey Rusher.

Sponsors To Date for Topography

For All Times: ForTec Medical; HZW Environmental Consultants; Marcus Thomas LLC; and Tom and Diane Tyrrell; For All Seasons: AB Bernstein/Karyn Sullivan; Akron Children's; Buckeye Elm Contracting; Cargill; Cascade Subaru; Gilbane; Heidelberg Distributing Company; Michelle and Dan Johnson; Kastner Westman and Wilkins, LLC; James and Diana Snider; and Welty; For All Trails: The J.M. Smucker Co.; and Western Reserve Racing.

About Conservancy for CVNP

The Conservancy for CVNP is the official friends group and philanthropic partner for Cuyahoga Valley National Park. With a mission to enrich people's lives and enhance our region by inspiring use, preservation and support of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Conservancy offers cultural and educational programming, co-manages the park's volunteer program, provides venues for weddings, meetings and special events, and operates park retail spaces. Learn more at www.forcvnp.org.

SOURCE Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Local owners Dana and Anne-Louise Merrill will kick off their showroom's grand opening on April 25

RALEIGH, N.C., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Designery, an immersive, full-service kitchen, bath and closet design center featuring high-quality cabinets, countertops and flooring, will celebrate the grand opening of its newest location in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Thursday, April 25.

The Designery North Raleigh owners Dana and Anne-Louise Merrill say they look forward to providing Raleigh homeowners with the design tools they need to make their homes beautiful, comfortable and useful.

The Designery will open its latest showroom in Raleigh, North Carolina, on April 25. Pictured are The Designery North Raleigh Project Manager True Merrill, left, and owners Anne-Louise and Dana Merrill.

"I always look for a trusted partner when I need service for my home or my car," Dana Merrill said. "I've been going to the same automobile repair shop for 16 years, and I call the same plumber I've used for years when I need a plumbing repair. We want to be that trusted partner that people in the Raleigh area use when they want to reimagine their space."

Anne-Louise Merrill said that building relationships is as important to her as providing reliable service.

"In addition to being the go-to design experts for kitchen, bathroom and closet remodeling, we also want to get to know our clients so we can serve them better," she said. "We want to build a family business that is trusted and known in our community."

The Merrills location will truly be a family affair with the addition of their son, True Merrill, as the location's project manager. The Merrills have been married for 30 years and have eight children and four grandchildren.

The couple is originally from New England but has called Raleigh home for the past 17 years.

Dana Merrill worked as the director of portfolio management, vendor manager and software development director for MetLife for nine years. He also worked as a project manager for Fidelity Investments and Veritude. He holds a bachelor's degree in music, voice and theater from Plymouth State University in New Hampshire, and attended a full-stack web development boot camp at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Anne-Louise Merrill home-schooled the couple's children and has a degree in piano pedagogy from Plymouth State University.

The Merrills began offering their redesigning services to the Raleigh community late last summer but welcome the opening of their permanent showroom at 3030 Wake Forest Road, Raleigh, North Carolina.

The couple were the recipients of the Downtown Raleigh Home Show's new exhibitor Best in Show award in January, and they won HomeFront Brands' CARES Award at the company's franchisee convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, in November.

The Designery North Raleigh serves residents in Cary, Morrisville, New Light, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell and Zebulon. It is the third location in North Carolina, with additional showrooms in South Charlotte, Lake Norman and Concord, North Carolina.

The Designery's in-house design expertise and extensive selection of products, including more than 100 cabinet styles, provide advantages to both homeowners and contractors. Its showrooms provide the ideal setting for personal design consultation, material and finish selection, and a virtual reality design view.

For more information about The Designery North Raleigh please visit https://thedesignery.com/locations/north-raleigh/.

About The Designery

The Designery was founded in 2007 as A1 Kitchen and Bath, a product wholesale outlet serving the Chattanooga, Tennessee market. In 2019, it rebranded as The Designery and established a franchise model to expand its unique concept: to simplify the kitchen, bath and closet design process by offering premium products, design expertise, project management and trusted professional installation. Its selection of high-quality cabinets, flooring, countertops and accessories makes it a destination for any remodeling, renovation or new construction project. It is a one-stop shop for homeowners and a trusted partner for contractors, with knowledgeable staff to walk clients through every step, from design to project management and installation. The Designery's immersive showroom and personalized guidance bring luxurious designs to life without the luxury price tag. To learn more about The Designery, please visit https://thedesignery.com/.

About HomeFront Brands:

HomeFront Brands empowers entrepreneurs to create thriving franchised residential and commercial property service brands. Driven by an experienced team of franchise executives and rooted in family values, HomeFront Brands helps emerging or established concepts accelerate their growth by delivering enterprise-level solutions to local business owners who aspire to build a dynasty and create generational wealth. By leveraging integrated technology, data-driven intelligence and advanced learning management systems, HomeFront Brands is building a foundation for its brands -- Window Hero, The Designery, Temporary Wall Systems, Top Rail Fence and Yard Patrol Pros  to transform lives through franchise ownership.

For more information about HomeFront Brands' current solutions, new business development, and franchising opportunities, please visit https://homefrontbrands.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

[email protected]

SOURCE HomeFront Brands
One-of-a-kind coaster combines family thrills with historic storytelling

BRANSON, Mo., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The largest family roller coaster in the Heartland, Fire In The Hole, is set to open this Saturday, March 30 at the internationally-awarded Silver Dollar City theme park. Today, media from across the country "answered the call" to experience their first rides on the new family coaster as part of a media preview at the 1880s theme park in the heart of the Ozarks.

In one of the most iconic scenes from the new $30 MIllion Fire In The Hole coaster, the onery Baldknobber vigilantes have stolen Red Flanders' pants.

At over 32,000 square feet, Fire In The Hole represents the 1880s theme park's single-largest attraction investment to date  a nearly 3-minute long ride, retelling an account of the night the real town Silver Dollar City now sits on was burnt to the ground. Integral to the ride's story, "volunteers" are asked to board their very own "pumper"  an 1880s steam-powered, firefighting wagon  and save the burning town from the notorious vigilantes, The Baldknobbers. 14 iconic show scenes are paired with 3 gravity-driven drops, while the journey ends with a surprise, quick water-splash finale. The final product is a result of years of collaboration with Idaho's Rocky Mountain Construction and Herschend Creative Studios.

"Fire In The Hole is truly one-of-a-kind," said Duane Marden, founder of the Roller Coaster Database, a worldwide database with statistics on over 10,000 roller coasters and counting from around the world. "The ride combines a family coaster experience all can enjoy with indoor elements illustrating the history of this area, all in a massive building that ends with a water splash. There's nothing like it anywhere and will be an absolute must-ride every visit."

True to the theme park's 1880s roots, the new coaster recounts the story of a real night in Ozark Mountain history when the mining town of Marmaros  the once-real town Silver Dollar City now resides on and inspiration for the park's theme  was burned to the ground by the Baldknobbers. This new coaster follows in the legendary footsteps of the original Fire In The Hole, a 51-year-old coaster that held final rides on Dec. 30, 2023, after hosting over 25 million riders since 1972. Now, housed in a 5-story, temperature-controlled building, the new family coaster will always be open regardless of the day's weather and temperature.

"Fire In The Hole is a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of the men and women who work here at Silver Dollar City," said Brad Thomas, President of the Silver Dollar City Company. "Work on this massive addition started back in 2021, with planning much before that. They have poured tens of thousands of hours into this project, and their craftsmanship can be seen in every nook of this ride, from the queue line and coaster building, all the way to the hand-painted backdrops and lush foliage."

Effectively doubling the size of one The City's most popular areas, Fire In The Hole is the new centerpiece in the newly incorporated Fire District. Additionally located in The Fire District is Sadie's Pretzel Cafe, an all-new restaurant serving handmade pretzels, pretzel dogs and pretzel sandwiches. Plus, just across the street, the new Flanders Dry Goods offers a line of "Flanders-branded" merchandise, connecting the store location back to Fire In The Hole's rich lore.

"This new Fire In The Hole continues our mission of creating memories worth repeating, as we look to always improve the experience for our guests and towards the future of our park," said Thomas. "This coaster, just like the original, ensures the whole family makes lasting memories for the foreseeable future, and the only place you can ride something like this is Silver Dollar City."

Today, heralded as the "first" ceremonial coaster train, firefighters from Stone County and neighboring Taney County made up the ride's first batch of "volunteers," in honor of their heroic actions in 2021 that saved The City from a fire of its own. Thanks to those actions, no serious injuries were sustained and the fire was contained to just three buildings.

Fire In The Hole marks the beginning of an action-packed summer this year at Silver Dollar City, with the park's Summer Celebration kicking off June 8, with extended nighttime hours starting July 13 with Summer Nights, all the way through August 4. And, there's plenty of fun between now and then, too, as this spring The City celebrates the final year of Street Fest from April 11-29. Then, Bluegrass & BBQ from May 2-27, awarded "Top Bluegrass Event" by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA).

B-roll, an on-ride point-of-view and images are accessible at silverdollarcity.com/press. For info on tickets and season passes, the park's schedule, operating hours and more, visit silverdollarcity.com or download the Silver Dollar City app.

SOURCE Silver Dollar City Company
Industry executive Tarak Mehta named Timken's next president and CEO

Richard G. Kyle to retire as Timken president and CEO; will remain on the Timken Board of Directors

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR; www.timken.com) Board of Directors has reached an agreement with Tarak Mehta to become Timken's next president and chief executive officer on Sept. 5, 2024. Mehta is currently president of the Motion business and member of the Group Executive Committee at ABB Ltd., a $32 billion leader in electrification and automation. Mehta will be appointed Timken president and CEO after he completes a transition period with ABB.

Richard G. Kyle Tarak Mehta

Richard G. Kyle will remain president and CEO until Mehta's appointment date. At that time, Kyle will move into an advisory role to assist with the leadership transition. Kyle plans to retire as an employee of Timken following a decade of leadership as CEO but will continue to serve on the Timken Board of Directors.

Mehta has 35 years of industry experience, including a 26-year career at ABB. As president of ABB's Motion business, he has extensive experience accelerating organic growth and innovation across global industrial markets, scaling business portfolios through M&A transactions and helping customers save energy and improve efficiency. While at ABB, Mehta held a variety of global business leadership positions of increasing responsibility, including president of Electrification Products. Mehta will be joining the Timken team in North Canton, Ohio, and is expected to be appointed to the Timken Board of Directors at a future date.

"Today's announcement is the result of a leadership succession plan and follows a comprehensive CEO selection process led by the Board," said Timken Chairman, John M. Timken, Jr. "Bringing on a seasoned industry executive like Tarak as CEO underscores the Board's commitment to advancing Timken's industrial diversification strategy. Tarak is an accomplished and highly respected global executive. He is exceptionally qualified to lead Timken through our next chapter of growth and has a proven track record of developing global teams and operational excellence. Tarak's customer-centric innovation and market-leading growth strategies will further Timken's leadership across the globe."

Kyle joined Timken in 2006 and was appointed president and CEO in 2014. He is credited for transforming the company into a global diversified industrial leader while achieving record-levels of financial performance. As CEO, he established two industry-leading business segments, Engineered Bearings and Industrial Motion, and significantly evolved the company's market mix. Kyle's disciplined capital allocation, operational rigor and focus on profitable growth enabled Timken to build scale, enter new product lines, expand globally and diversify its end markets to drive shareholder value.

"On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Rich for his outstanding achievements, his personal integrity and for the significant impact he has had on the company," said John Timken. "Timken stands stronger today than at any time in our 125-year history, reflecting Rich's leadership and stewardship as CEO. During his tenure, Rich developed a talented leadership team and positioned the company for future success. We are pleased that Rich will continue as a member of the Board following his retirement as president and CEO."

About The Timken Company

The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR; www.timken.com) designs a growing portfolio of engineered bearings and industrial motion products. With more than a century of knowledge and innovation, we continuously improve the reliability and efficiency of global machinery and equipment to move the world forward. Timken posted $4.8 billion in sales in 2023 and employs more than 19,000 people globally, operating from 45 countries. Timken is one of the World's Most Innovative Companies, according to Fast Company, and has been recognized among America's Most Responsible Companies and America's Greatest Workplaces for Diversity by Newsweek, the World's Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere and America's Most Innovative Companies by Fortune.



Media Relations:

Scott Schroeder

234.262.6420

[email protected]

SOURCE The Timken Company
Through a $525,000 contribution, AT&T's digital learning platform, The Achievery, will be offered to Think Together students enrolled in 175 schools throughout California, starting at Compton High School.

COMPTON, Calif., March 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Think Together, in collaboration with AT&T, today announced the official launch of The Achievery, a groundbreaking digital education platform designed to empower K-12 learning during out-of-school (OST) programs.

Held at Compton High School, students enrolled in the school's Think Together afterschool program shared first-hand their experiences with The Achievery platform, highlighting its impact on their academic engagement and personal growth.

Left to right: from AT&T Gina Pernetti, Lupita Sanchez-Cornejo, Carmen Shoemaker, from Think Together Tommy Brewer II, Lawrence Gustafson, Lesley Martin

The launch marks a significant milestone in enhancing educational opportunities for students across California, starting with 175 Think Together program sites, including Compton High School and its Think Together older youth program.

"Igniting an unquenchable curiosity and fostering a passion to learn are cardinal elements in the journey of growth and achievement. This principle has been the driving force behind our development of The Achievery. Our vision is to extend the horizons of knowledge beyond the traditional classroom, nurturing a generation of enthusiastic, life-long learners," said Marc Blakeman, President, AT&T California and Pacific States. "We are thrilled to announce our new collaboration with Think Together across California, as it is an exhilarating opportunity to collectively touch the lives of thousands of students and serve as a gateway to higher achievement."

The Achievery, powered by AT&T, introduces a comprehensive curriculum spanning STEM, Digital Literacy, Social-Emotional Learning, College and Career Readiness, and more. With each site poised to serve up to 120 students, The Achievery promises to revolutionize digital learning experiences, providing students with the tools and resources they need to thrive academically and beyond.

Randy Barth, Founder and CEO of Think Together, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "The launch of The Achievery represents a pivotal moment in our commitment to empowering students through digital education. By expanding access to innovative learning resources, we are equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in today's world."

The launch of The Achievery underscores the collective efforts of Think Together, Compton Unified, and AT&T to promote equitable access to education and foster a culture of lifelong learning. With a shared vision of closing the opportunity gap, the partners remain committed to empowering students and communities through transformative digital learning initiatives.

Dr. Darin Brawley, Superintendent of Compton Unified School District (CUSD), commended the initiative, stating, "We are proud to partner with Think Together and AT&T to bring The Achievery to Compton High School and all the Compton Unified schools. This digital learning platform aligns with our mission to foster a culture of continuous learning and provide equitable access to educational opportunities for all students."

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T

We're committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities and improving lives. As part of our companywide commitment to address the digital divide, we launched AT&T Connected Learning to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy and education solutions to help today's learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008, we've committed to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.

About Think Together

Think Together partners with schools and communities to pursue educational equity and excellence for all kids. As a nonprofit organization, Think Together innovates, implements and scales academic solutions that change the odds for hundreds of thousands of California students. Think Together's program areas include early learning, afterschool, school support services and leadership development for teachers and school administrators. For more information, call (888) 485-THINK or visit www.thinktogether.org.

SOURCE Think Together
Conference call and webcast scheduled for 9:00 a.m. EDT

TORONTO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Thomson Reuters (TSX/NYSE: TRI) announced today its first-quarter 2024 earnings will be issued via news release on Thursday, May 2, 2024.

Steve Hasker, president and chief executive officer, and Mike Eastwood, chief financial officer, will host a conference call and simultaneous webcast that morning at 9:00 a.m. EDT. Discussions may include forward-looking information.

You can access the webcast by visiting the "Investor Relations" section of the Thomson Reuters website. Registration for the webcast is now open. Additionally, an archive of the webcast will be available following the presentation.

Thomson Reuters

Thomson Reuters (TSX/NYSE: TRI) informs the way forward by bringing together the trusted content and technology that people and organizations need to make the right decisions. The company serves professionals across legal, tax, accounting, compliance, government, and media. Its products combine highly specialized software and insights to empower professionals with the data, intelligence, and solutions needed to make informed decisions, and to help institutions in their pursuit of justice, truth, and transparency. Reuters, part of Thomson Reuters, is the world's leading provider of trusted journalism and news. For more information, visit tr.com.

CONTACTS

MEDIA

Gehna Singh Kareckas

Senior Director, Corporate Affairs

+1 613 979 4272

[email protected]

INVESTORS

Gary E. Bisbee, CFA

Head of Investor Relations

+1 646 540 3249

[email protected]

SOURCE Thomson Reuters
Last August, Levi Blake left his senior-living apartment in North Omaha.

He never returned home.

Since Blake, an 80-year-old man with dementia, went missing Aug. 17, 2023, family, friends and Omaha Police Department officers have extensively searched for him. Blake was described as 5-foot-9 and 150 pounds.

In November, three months after Blake disappeared, Police Sgt. Brett Schrage, Blakes son Terrance Collier, and family friend and North Omaha community activist Sherman Wells held a press conference to urge the public to help in the search. Blakes daughter, LaShonda Richardson, has been involved in helping find her father.

In March, police offered $5,000 to anyone who gives information leading to finding Blake. At least $15,000 has been raised so far to find Blake, Wells said.

All those efforts have not produced substantial leads.

The number of tips weve gotten from anything could probably be counted on one hand, said Schrage, the lead investigator into Blakes disappearance.

Police initially believed Blake boarded a city bus near North 33rd and Lake Streets and got off somewhere else in the city. While the possibility of him getting on a bus hasnt been ruled out, police now believe its more likely Blake may have wandered on foot about a half-mile northeast from his senior apartment and then disappeared.

Police said they came to that conclusion after seeing video footage, including footage from a Ring video doorbell, of a man matching Blakes description.

Police: Its not an easy case

August was not the first time Blake has wandered off, Wells said.

In one instance, Wells said, Blake was found outside a hotel in Carter Lake giving away his money. In another instance, Blake was spotted by a woman around 36th Street and Grand Avenue. Wells said the woman observed Blake had no shoes on. Blake told the woman, according to Wells, that he was from Chicago and looking for his son and daughter.

After the woman requested to see Blakes identification card and saw his name, she called the police. Police arrived and took Blake home.

Blake most recently lived in an apartment at the JC Wade Senior Villa complex at North 34th Avenue and Ohio Street. No footage exists of him leaving his apartment the day he went missing.

Police have said the Ring video doorbell camera from another residence shows Blake walking northeast along the street away from his apartment. The Ring video was taken at 4:40 p.m. Aug. 17.

Nearly an hour later, at 5:33 p.m., a grainy video shows a man who appeared to match Blakes description walk along John A. Creighton Boulevard near the Adams Park Community Center, police said. The man follows the boulevards curve toward Bedford Avenue before he disappears from the cameras view.

At some point, Blake also was seen wandering near a stop sign close to his apartment building at 34th Avenue and Miami Street, Schrage said.

Police said the videos grainy quality makes it virtually impossible to definitively say the man in the video was Blake.

Police believe Blake was not carrying a cellphone, or any electronics, at the time of his disappearance.

Those factors have made for a difficult investigation, Schrage said.

Its not an easy case, he said. In other missing persons cases, there could be a train of thought. Theres some type of communication. There could be cellular devices.  We dont have any of that. Its tough to know what his mindset would have been at that point in time.

Blake, who suffered from other health problems in addition to dementia, spent most of his adult life in Omaha, Terrance Collier said. Blake was born in Mississippi and grew up in Chicago. In Omaha, Blake worked as a jitney  essentially a taxicab  driver. He also worked in auto detailing, Collier said.

While Collier said Blake had many friends, he spent a lot of time alone at home.

Hes a people person. But at the same time, he does like his privacy, Collier said. Youd have to know him in order to know what hes like. For me, I can say hes a multifaceted person.

Blakes dementia could make Blake ornery, Wells said.

Citing experiences from Blakes family members, Wells said, There were times when he would get up and be like, Who are you? What are you doing in my house? Hed get angry with them because he forgot who they were.

Even though Wells said Blake visited Chicago a lot, he and Collier dont believe Blake has left Omaha. Collier said he saw his fathers house keys, wallet and bank cards at the apartment days after Blake disappeared.

Friends and family doubt intensity of police search.

Wells and Collier also question the Police Departments initial intensity in searching for Blake, although they both praised Schrage once the sergeant came on the case. Collier said he found out about his fathers disappearance from his mother and sister. Collier added that police didnt inform him until four days after his father disappeared.

Wells said police didnt tell the community Blake was missing until 10 days after the fact. He said he and a group of about 40 people made a video and sent it to police to start looking into Blakes disappearance more seriously. He also questioned why the police didnt send out an alert sooner on Blakes disappearance.

According to Bonacci, however, police filed a 72-hour endangering missing advisory in conjunction with the Nebraska State Patrol on Aug. 18. Because missing persons detectives dont typically work weekends unless theyre paid for overtime, Bonacci said, they didnt see the report on Blake until Monday.

After the advisory expired, Bonacci said he pushed information on Blakes disappearance to traditional and social media to ask the publics help in finding Blake.

Even before the information was pushed out through the media channels, Bonacci said officers made extensive efforts to find Blake.

I can guarantee you those officers  looked for him. There was an effort to find him, Bonacci said.

Bonacci and Schrage said OPD has deployed extensive resources in the search for Blake. Those include bringing in bloodhounds from Cook County, Illinois, to sniff for traces of Blake and using drones as officers continue to thoroughly comb through areas where Blake frequently was most recently seen. Bonacci said police have even looked at missing persons reported in other states that had similar descriptions to Blake.

Wells said he believes Blakes race  he is Black  played a role in the search.

I just think that if he were a White man, the search efforts would have been more intense, he said.

Bonacci denied that race played any factor. He added that Blakes disappearance was the first time the Omaha police had offered a reward for help in locating a missing person in his three years as a police spokesperson.

We do not feel race played any role in our response to the investigation, Bonacci said. Weve put a lot of hours and lots of resources into this. This is important to us.

The longer Blake remains missing, the more pessimistic Collier is about his fathers fate. Blake, who was described as generally wearing slacks and T-shirts, disappeared days before high temperatures reached the 100s and months before extremely cold weather afflicted the area.

Theres a huge possibility that hes no longer amongst (us) as a living, breathing human being, Collier said.

In the wake of his fathers disappearance, Collier said he is forming the Levi Blake Foundation to help raise funds to find other missing Omahans and return them home to their loved ones.

While Schrage and police have taken investigatory steps  including collecting DNA samples  in case Blakes body is found, officers are continuing to search for him under the premise that hes still alive.
The Nutraceutical Brand's VENALIGHT Capsules Are the Perfect Antidote to Tired Legs and Their Side Effects

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tired legs syndrome is a common issue for many individuals. The restless, twitching symptoms can be distracting and uncomfortable and ultimately impact quality of life. PLAMECA's VENALIGHT PLUS CAPSULES were designed to restore circulation in the legs and eliminate the issue of restless legs.

Also called Restless Legs Syndrome, tired legs is a health condition that occurs when an individual feels a sudden urge to move their legs while in a resting position. This comes from a severe sense of discomfort that is described at different times as a crawling, throbbing, aching, itching, and even an electric sensation.

Restless legs symptoms often flare up in the evening or at night, interrupting both rest and sleep. Approximately one in 10 Americans has restless legs syndrome, with the condition being more likely among women and older people.

Mayo Clinic points out that moving is often the best way to ease symptoms, although this often only works for a short period of time. Other solutions include elevating troublesome legs and taking a cold shower.

Addressing nutritional and health concerns is important for long-term treatment and prevention. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential, as is lowering salt intake. Preventative measures can also be taken by using a consistent supplement, such as PLAMECA's VENALIGHT PLUS CAPSULES.

"VENALIGHT PLUS is ideal for the treatment and prevention of tired legs," says PLAMECA's managing director, Oscar Fernandez. "Our customers often see relief from symptoms within a day, and the well-rounded formula is created with clean, wholesome ingredients, including Green Mango Extract and vitamin C."

These aren't the only ingredients in the VENALIGHT PLUS formula that support the circulatory system and help with blood circulation. For example, it also contains horse chestnut fruit, which is known for its ability to help with leg cramps . Butcher's broom also may help with blood circulation and inflammation . Red vine leaf extract and hesperidin are also present.

All that's required is to take one capsule per day with a glass of water, separate from the main meals. (As is always the case with any supplement, at-risk population groups should consult a healthcare professional before use.)

Tired legs are a common issue for many individuals, whether they develop due to warm weather, excessive weight gain, or simply standing for too long. PLAMECA's VENALIGHT PLUS CAPSULES are a safe, natural, and effective way to ease symptoms and help the body circulate blood through the legs smoothly again.

About Plameca

PLAMECA is a phytotherapy company founded in 1984 with the initial intention of providing medicinal herbs and plants  which it did for 1,500 retailers across the Spanish geography. In 1994, PLAMECA expanded to manufacture its own food supplements, creating a range of products using herbal extracts, vitamins, and minerals. Currently, PLAMECA products are manufactured in modern facilities using up-to-date scientific methods and are sold in 35 countries. As the company celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, it has also invested $11 million in an aggressive plan to expand its health and wellness focus over the next five years. Learn more at plameca.com .

Juan M Desvalls

[email protected]

Tel. + 34 677518038

SOURCE Plameca
Launches Industry-First Responsible AI Certification and Unveils NymityAI

SAN FRANCISCO, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TrustArc, a leader in data privacy management and governance solutions, is proud to announce two revolutionary product innovations set to transform the privacy landscape  Responsible AI Certification and NymityAI. Both will be available beginning March 27, 2024.

These product launches reinforce TrustArc's commitment to helping businesses implement responsible artificial intelligence (AI) practices via a verified and credible methodology, as well as bolster their privacy program management with the most comprehensive legal research application available via NymityAI.

"We're witnessing a pivotal era where the sheer capability of and possibilities with AI continue to grow at an unprecedented rate. By enabling our clients to tackle this powerful technology head-on, using a core set of common controls and requirements, TrustArc is leading the charge in shaping a future where technology and ethical responsibility go hand in hand," said Val Ilchenko, TrustArc General Counsel and Chief Privacy Officer.

Groundbreaking Responsible AI Governance Certification

The TRUSTe Responsible AI Certification is the first AI certification focused explicitly on data protection and privacy. Incorporating principles of the EU AI Act, NIST AI Risk Management Framework, ISO:42001, and OECD AI Principles offers a clear framework for companies aiming to comply with core principles of responsible AI. The certification gives organizations a distinctive advantage as early adopters in AI data governance and demonstrates responsible AI handling. In advance of the Responsible AI Certification launch, significant industry interest has been built with privacy pioneers such as DoubleVerify, Dun & Bradstreet, Integral Ad Science, and ZoomInfo.

Kevin Alvero, Chief Compliance Officer for Integral Ad Science, announced their commitment to the initiative, "Adhering to TrustArc's Responsible AI Certification isn't just about compliance; it's about affirming our dedication to ethical AI practices. IAS infuses the power of AI into all aspects of our products to drive performance for our customers, and this certification is a testament to our promise to uphold transparency, fairness, security, and accountability as we leverage AI technologies."

Introducing NymityAI  Your Privacy Co-Pilot

In concert with a commitment to responsible AI, TrustArc is granting exclusive beta access to NymityAI  a new feature within Nymity Research. Designed to exponentially streamline the privacy research process, NymityAI equips professionals with critical information in a fraction of the time typically required. This AI-powered chatbot is a first-of-its-kind, powered by two decades of expert-written content, including 46,000 legal summaries and references and thousands of jurisdiction-specific topical overviews. NymityAI allows users to work smarter by providing actionable, succinct, and easy-to-understand privacy and regulatory answers, irrespective of privacy or legal expertise. Responses include citations to the original Nymity content source so users can feel confident in the information provided by the chatbot.

"NymityAI is more than a time-saver. It's the new standard for legal research in privacy, providing unparalleled insights and accelerating the learning curve," said K Royal, co-host of the Serious Privacy podcast.

Eligible beta users can access NymityAI chat from anywhere within the TrustArc platform, creating a convenient way to get answers to privacy questions anytime without leaving the platform. NymityAI Beta is now available for Nymity Research customers. A beta waitlist for a free trial sign-up is available here .

TrustArc Showcase at IAPP Global Privacy Summit 2024

TrustArc proudly announces its participation in the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) Global Privacy Summit in Washington, D.C., on April 2 - 4. This premier event gathers industry experts and practitioners worldwide to explore data privacy trends, challenges, and opportunities. TrustArc invites all attendees to visit Booth 316 at the IAPP Global Privacy Summit to discover firsthand how the company is shaping the future of AI and privacy technology.

About TrustArc

As a leader in data privacy, TrustArc automates and simplifies the creation of end-to-end privacy management programs for global organizations. TrustArc is the only company to deliver depth of privacy intelligence, coupled with automation, essential for the growing number of privacy regulations in an ever-changing digital world. Headquartered in San Francisco and backed by a global team across the Americas, Europe, and Asia, TrustArc helps customers worldwide demonstrate compliance, minimize risk, and build trust. For additional information, visit www.trustarc.com .

SOURCE TrustArc
TUMI continues to fortify its place in the women's space with a new collection that's equally contemporary and versatile

SINGAPORE, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, international travel and lifestyle brand TUMI introduces Asra, the latest collection of women's handbags designed for the effortlessly stylish and on-the-go modern woman. To celebrate the all-new collection and the brand's evolving women's category, TUMI tapped esteemed South Korean actress Mun Ka Young as the face of the new collection, starring in her first-ever campaign for the brand.

TUMI DEBUTS WOMENS ASRA COLLECTION WITH CAMPAIGN STARRING NEW GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADOR, MUN KA YOUNG

The Asra collection will seamlessly transition from day to night, with feminine designs and elevated accents that merge functionality with style. The collection includes three different sizes and four compelling colors  TUMI's core Matte Black and three seasonal colors Moonlight, Cameo Rose, and Purple Sunset, the latter a vibrant colorway inspired by the beautiful landscapes of Sentosa island in Singapore.

"TUMI is thrilled to expand our women's offerings with the launch of Asra, demonstrating how we offer more than just state-of-the-art luggage. We have accessories and beautiful products that serve as the perfect complement to a busy lifestyle," said Jill Krizelman, TUMI's Senior Vice President of Marketing and eCommerce. "We're excited to welcome Mun Ka Young as our newest global TUMI Ambassador. She embodies everything we want the TUMI woman to feel; confident, successful and empowered."

Each Asra bag features pleating with a soft structure, coordinating hardware, and a knotted shoulder strap for added visual and textural interest. Additional touches include an exterior microfiber-lined pocket, perfect for a phone or pair of sunglasses, and a leather monogram charm (sold separately) to add TUMI's signature touch of personalization to any Asra bag.

To introduce the collection, TUMI partnered with Mun Ka Young for a stunning campaign that channels the elegance and modern allure of the Asra collection. Directed by C Prinz and photographed by Bibi Cornejo Borthwick, the campaign features Mun with her Asra bag as she explores a classic, museum-like architectural space. Her bag effortlessly guides her throughout the room as she merges between duplicates of herself, capturing the essence of the collection's fluidity and grace.

"I'm honored to be the face of TUMI's new Asra handbag collection," said Mun. "I've long been a fan of TUMI, and I'm thrilled that they're exploring fresh silhouettes. Beauty and versatility are a big part of my life, and with TUMI these bags are a perfect fit for every journey."

To celebrate the global campaign launch, TUMI and Mun Ka Young brought the Asra collection to life with a stunning, global event in Singapore. The Asra collection ranges in price from $350-$495 USD. Shop the Asra collection available at TUMI.com and TUMI stores worldwide.

About TUMI

Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel, and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, we're committed to empowering journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions. For more about TUMI, visit TUMI.com and follow on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

TUMI and TUMI logo are registered trademarks of Tumi, Inc.  2024 Tumi, Inc.

TUMI Media Contacts

Alexandra Gillis

TUMI

[email protected]

Hailey Hauldren

SHADOW

[email protected]

SOURCE Tumi, Inc.
Adding medical centers in Orange and Los Angeles counties extends the UCI Health presence and advances UC Irvine's mission to serve Californians

ORANGE, Calif., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- UCI Health, the clinical enterprise of the University of California, Irvine, has completed the acquisition of four hospitals and associated outpatient locations from Tenet Healthcare Corporation. Beginning today, the team members at Fountain Valley Regional Hospital, Lakewood Regional Medical Center Los Alamitos Medical Center and Placentia-Linda Hospital are now part of UCI Health.

UCI Health Welcomes Four Community Hospitals

"This is a historic day for UC Irvine, California and beyond. We celebrate the transformation of UCI Health as a leader in the integration of academic and community-based health systems while promoting solutions to challenges facing healthcare," said UC Irvine Chancellor Howard Gillman. "This visionary leap forward will bridge gaps in regional care and advance the University of California's mission to serve our communities through academic excellence, cutting-edge research and dedicated public service."

As Orange County's only academic health system, UCI Health plays a unique and critical role providing healthcare in the region. This acquisition builds on that commitment to improve health in communities by expanding unrestricted healthcare access for more people in Southern California.

"The people of Southern California and the patients across these local communities have something truly remarkable to celebrate today," said Chad Lefteris, president and chief executive officer of UCI Health. "UCI Health has built a legacy as a nationally regarded academic health system that is fiercely dedicated to improving the health of our communities. We are investing in building a healthier future for people that harnesses the power of advanced medicine with the convenience of care available close to home."

Lefteris said UCI Health recognizes a unique opportunity to build on the quality care already being delivered in the communities served by these hospitals. Patients of the former Tenet hospitals and outpatient offices can continue receiving care at their local facilities as they normally would from their trusted physicians and care teams.

"Our goal is to become the nation's friendliest and most accessible academic health system," he said.

The acquisition adds 858 inpatient beds that, when paired with the 459 licensed beds at UCI Medical Center in Orange, strengthens UC Irvine's ability to meet the continually increasing demand for inpatient beds for a range of intensive and critical care needs.

"UCI Health is backed by the power of a world-class public research institution, reflected in the academic excellence of the Susan & Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences," said Steve A.N. Goldstein, MD, PhD, FAAP, Vice Chancellor of Health Affairs, UC Irvine. "This combination of top tier research, education of the next generation of providers, and commitment to the public health is advancing healthcare solutions and innovations in Southern California and beyond. Together, with providers in the new hospitals, UCI Health is building bridges for collaboration between academic and community-based healthcare and offering more people across California access to the highest caliber of healthcare."

More patients will have access to advanced therapies in the region's largest and most diverse portfolio of clinical trials, ranging from cancer to neurosciences, digestive diseases, orthopaedics and internal medicine specialties. UCI Health has consistently placed in the top 10 for quality and safety among the nation's leading comprehensive academic health systems and received the top 10 Clinical Research Achievement Award from the Clinical Research Forum.

"We deeply appreciate the enthusiasm and support we have received since announcing this new chapter for healthcare in our region," said Lefteris. "Now, we can begin strengthening the collaboration with local physicians and patients to expand healthcare services and provide unrestricted access for more people. Together, we will be an innovative, powerful team that will transform to meet the health needs of our communities."

About UCI Health

UCI Health is the clinical enterprise of the University of California, Irvine, and the only academic health system based in Orange County. UCI Health is comprised of its main campus, UCI Medical Center a 459-bed, acute care hospital in in Orange, Calif., four hospitals and affiliated physicians of the UCI Health Community Network in Orange and Los Angeles counties and ambulatory care centers across the region. Listed among America's Best Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report for 23 consecutive years, UCI Medical Center provides tertiary and quaternary care and is home to Orange County's only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, high-risk perinatal/neonatal program and American College of Surgeons-verified Level I adult and Level II pediatric trauma center, gold level 1 geriatric emergency department and regional burn center. The UCI Health system serves a region of nearly 4 million people in Orange County, western Riverside County and southeast Los Angeles County. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

About UCI

About the University of California, Irvine: Founded in 1965, UCI is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is ranked among the nation's top 10 public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The campus has produced five Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UCI has more than 37,000 students and offers 224 degree programs. It's located in one of the world's safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County's second-largest employer, contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide. For more on UCI, visit www.uci.edu.

SOURCE UCI Health
DUBLIN, March 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "U.S. Robotics Integration for the Manufacturing Market - Analysis and Forecast, 2024-2029: Focus on Market, Applications and Technologies" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

U.S. Robotics Integration for the Manufacturing Market is projected to reach a value of $7.48 billion by 2029 from $4.3 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 11.6%

Robotics integration in the U.S. signifies a transformative phase in the industrial and technological landscapes, driven by advancements in automation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. The integration of robotics is reshaping various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries, by enhancing efficiency, productivity, and safety. This transition is supported by a robust ecosystem involving policymakers, educational institutions, manufacturers of robotic systems, and end users, fostering a conducive environment for innovation and growth.

The U.S. government, recognizing the strategic importance of robotics, has initiated several programs and investments to accelerate research and development, workforce training, and ethical deployment of robotics. For instance, the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute reflects a concerted effort to fortify the country's global leadership in this domain. Moreover, collaboration between universities and industry is pivotal in pushing the boundaries of robotics technology, ensuring a steady flow of skilled labor, and addressing the challenges of integration.

Market Introduction

The integration of robotics in the U.S. manufacturing sector marks a significant paradigm shift toward Industry 5.0, which emphasizes a human-centric approach, increased resilience, and focus on sustainability, shifting from a sole focus on efficiency and productivity to a broader vision of industry contributing to society's well-being. Industry 5.0 is value-driven, combining technology with a focus on people and environment.

The manufacturing market is increasingly embracing robotics to address challenges such as labor shortages, need for precision and consistency in production, and imperative for sustainable practices. Robotics integration is pivotal in automating repetitive and hazardous tasks, leading to enhanced efficiency and reduced downtime. Advanced robotic systems equipped with sensors and AI capabilities are enabling predictive maintenance, quality control, and customized production, aligning with the just-in-time manufacturing model.

Furthermore, the rise of cobots is a notable trend. Cobots are designed to work alongside humans, enhancing safety and productivity. Cobots are being increasingly adopted for tasks that require precision and flexibility, proving to be cost-effective for small- and medium-sized enterprises. Robotics offers solutions for material handling, packaging, and logistics. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are revolutionizing warehouse operations, ensuring timely and accurate fulfillment of orders.

Additionally, the U.S. government is actively involved in shaping policies to ensure a balanced approach to robotics integration, addressing concerns related to labor displacement, privacy, and ethical considerations. Collaboration between regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders is vital to establishing standards and best practices.

Industrial Impacts

The integration of robotics in the U.S. manufacturing market is profoundly reshaping the industrial landscape, heralding a new era of productivity, innovation, and competitiveness. Robotics integration fundamentally alters production processes, enabling higher throughput, precision, and consistency. Automated production lines powered by robotics minimize human error, reduce waste, and ensure optimal utilization of resources. This efficiency is critical in sectors where precision and repeatability are paramount, such as electronics, automotive, and pharmaceuticals.

Moreover, the integration of robotics in the U.S. manufacturing market is a multi-dimensional paradigm shift, influencing not just the production processes but also the economic, educational, and social fabrics of the industrial sector. This transformation, while replete with challenges, presents immense opportunities for growth, innovation, and sustainable development, asserting the pivotal role of robotics in shaping the future of U.S. manufacturing.

Automotive Segment to Dominate the U.S. Robotics Integration for the Manufacturing Market (by Application)

The automotive segments in the U.S. robotics integration for the manufacturing market is leading the market, principally attributed to its intrinsic need for high-volume, precision manufacturing, which aligns seamlessly with the capabilities of robotic systems. In the automotive industry, the rapid evolution of connectivity and technology, propelled by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and expanding vehicle-to-everything (V2X) infrastructure, is steering the sector toward autonomous driving.

The integration of robotics in automotive manufacturing is instrumental in this transformation, offering precision and quality in the production of sophisticated components, scalability to meet the surging demand, and adaptability to rapidly evolving technology. Robotics in manufacturing underpins the complex assembly processes required for modern vehicles, ensuring that the automotive industry can efficiently produce vehicles equipped with the latest AI, ADAS, and V2X systems, thereby shaping the future of automotive technology and mobility.

How can this report add value to an organization?

Product/Innovation Strategy: The product segment helps the reader understand the different types of products available for deployment and their potential globally. Moreover, the study provides the reader with a detailed understanding of the U.S. robotics integration for the manufacturing market by applications such as aviation, SpaceTech, automotive, consumer electronics, semiconductor, renewable energy and power, FoodTech, warehousing, and HealthTech and MedTech and on the basis of type, the market has been segmented into autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), automated guided vehicles (AGVs), collaborative robots (cobots), and others.

Growth/Marketing Strategy: The U.S. robotics integration for the manufacturing market has seen development by robot manufacturers and robot integrators operating in the market, such as business expansion, partnership, collaboration, and joint venture. The favored strategy for the companies has been the launch of new products to strengthen their position in the U.S. robotics integration for the manufacturing market. For instance, in December 2023, Brightpick, a warehouse automation solutions provider, revealed details about its advanced machine vision and AI technologies crucial for its Brightpick Autopicker robots.

Competitive Strategy: Key players in the U.S. robotics integration for the manufacturing market analyzed and profiled in the study involve robot manufacturers and robot integrators. Moreover, a detailed competitive benchmarking of the players operating in the U.S. robotics integration for the manufacturing market has been done to help the reader understand how players stack against each other, presenting a clear market landscape. Additionally, comprehensive competitive strategies such as partnerships, agreements, and collaborations will aid the reader in understanding the untapped revenue pockets in the market.

Key Market Players and Competition Synopsis

The companies that are profiled have been selected based on thorough secondary research, which includes analyzing company coverage, product portfolio, market penetration, and insights gathered from primary experts.

The U.S. robotics integration for the manufacturing market comprises key players who have established themselves thoroughly and have the proper understanding of the market, accompanied by start-ups looking forward to establishing themselves in this highly competitive market. In 2022, the U.S. robotics integration for the manufacturing market was dominated by established players, accounting for 90% of the market share, whereas start-ups managed to capture 10% of the market.

With the growing need for advanced diagnostic tools and quality assurance in various industries, the U.S. robotics integration for the manufacturing market is expected to see significant expansion. This growth is driven by expanding applications of robotics across sectors, including automotive, electronics, and healthcare, and the rising demand for precision, efficiency, and safety in production lines.

Industry Outlook

Robotic Integration for the Manufacturing Market: Overview

Vision Systems

Machine Control and Integration

Material Handling and Motion Control

Platforms, Systems, and Architecture

Transition from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0

Trends Enabling the Robotics Industry

Internet of Robotic Things (IoRT)

5G-Enabled Smart Factory

Autonomous Mobile Robots

Collaborative Robot (Cobot) Integration with Humans

Robotic Efficiency and Accuracy Analysis

Traditional and Non-Traditional Use Cases in Key Industries

Standards and Regulations

Startups and Investment Landscape

Business Drivers

Increase in the Role of AI and ML in Robotics Technology

Increase in the Prevalence of Robotic Palletizing

Business Challenges

Lack of Expertise in Robotics Integration

Business Opportunities

Rise of Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) in Manufacturing

Growth Opportunities and Recommendations

Growing Demand from Automotive Market

Growing Demand for Warehouse Automation

Some prominent names established in this market are:

ACRO Automation Systems, Inc.

Andrews Cooper

Bastian Solutions, LLC

Cleveland Automation Systems

Dynamic Automation

enVista, LLC.

KC Robotics

Productivity Inc.

Remtec Automation, LLC.

Steven Douglas Corp.

Jabil Inc.

JR Automation

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/flyrth

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

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SOURCE Research and Markets
Throughout the event, the USVI delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with 13 key industry stakeholders, including major airlines such as American, Delta, Southwest, Spirit Airways, JetBlue, and United. Meetings were centered on growth strategies aimed at opening new gateways in high-demand markets, enhancing existing routes, and addressing seasonality shifts to maximize the Territory's tourism potential.

Commissioner Boschulte expressed enthusiasm about the outcome of the meetings, emphasizing the positive feedback received from airline partners. "Our participation at Routes Americas 2024 was instrumental in solidifying our partnerships with key airlines and furthering our efforts to enhance air access to the U.S. Virgin Islands. The positive feedback received reaffirms our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences for travelers."

The USVI delegation presented comprehensive market analysis and data, including previews of marketing campaigns, cooperative opportunities, and award-winning strategies. This proactive approach resonated well with airline representatives, who expressed eagerness to incorporate the insights into their future scheduling and network decisions.

Commissioner Boschulte also highlighted the remarkable success of the USVI's air access initiatives, reporting record-breaking results for the current winter season. "We are thrilled to report unprecedented growth in air arrivals, with exceptionally strong yields to both St. Thomas and St. Croix," he stated. "The continued support from our airline partners emphasizes the promising outlook for tourism in the U.S. Virgin Islands."

From January to August 2024, the USVI is expected to experience a significant increase in air arrivals, with a remarkable 28% year-over-year growth compared to 2023 and a notable 18% year-over-year increase from January and February 2024 over the same period in 2022. Projections for the Continental US Winter 2023/2024 indicate a 25% increase compared to Winter 2022/2023 and a 15% increase versus 2021/2022.

Furthermore, specific data for St. Thomas (STT) and St. Croix (STX) reflects substantial growth trends. Projections for Continental US Winter (December  March) 2023/2024 show a 20% increase for STT and an impressive 48% increase for STX compared to Winter 2022/2023. Additionally, from January to August 2024, STT has already experienced a 28% year-over-year growth compared to 2023 and an 11% increase versus 2022, while STX saw a 17% year-over-year growth compared to 2023 and an 18% increase versus 2022.

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism remains dedicated to building upon the momentum gained at Routes Americas 2024. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing air access, fostering partnerships, and delivering unparalleled travel experiences, the USVI looks forward to a bright future of sustainable growth and continued success in the tourism industry.

For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands and its offerings, please visit: https://www.visitusvi.com/

About the U.S. Virgin Islands

About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. The three islands are St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry. No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non-U.S. citizens. For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to www.VisitUSVI.com, follow us on Instagram (@visitusvi) and Twitter (@usvitourism), and become a fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/VisitUSVI).

SOURCE U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
Transforming connectivity: modernizing the DoD backbone

MCLEAN, Va., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ValidaTek, Inc. continues to build its partnership with the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) to help the agency maintain the availability, security, and stability of their infrastructure. This critical work will support DISA's mission to provide innovative, globally accessible enterprise information infrastructure in direct support of our warfighters, leaders, and partners across the full spectrum of military operations.

Team ValidaTek will design, build, and deploy new architecture and sustainment technology to help modernize their existing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) infrastructure in both CONUS and OCONUS. This new architecture will operate at a lower cost while also reducing cybersecurity vulnerabilities, improving the reliability of the Department of Defense (DoD) phone system, and providing the ability to accommodate emerging cloud-hosted voice services (i.e., Office 365).

The $43M task order includes a one-year base period with two one-year options, and was awarded under the Systems Engineering, Technology & Innovation (SETI) SB indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicle.

"Our Team is passionate about supporting the warfighter and this new challenge enables us to do so globally. We thank DISA for the opportunity and for their continued partnership," said Devon Martin, Chief Growth Officer at ValidaTek.

ValidaTek experts deliver end-to-end IT services to operate, maintain, and modernize IT infrastructure both on-premises and in the cloud while reducing total cost of ownership. The company modernizes systems on an ongoing basis by tightly integrating problem management with system architecture, making modernization part of daily business and transforming reactive fixes into proactive and predictable support.

More about ValidaTek:

ValidaTek is a premier government IT consulting firm based in the Washington DC area that drives technology transformation and secures mission-critical systems for our federal partners. Our passion for process and continuous improvement based on quantitative measurements ensures our delivery of results-based IT modernization with quality, integrity, and excellence. We develop, advise, and deliver optimized and secure IT solutions in cybersecurity, software engineering, cloud computing, unified communications, mobility and desktop, and infrastructure. For more information, visit www.validatek.com, LinkedIn: /validatek-inc, Instagram: @validatekinc, Facebook: /validatek.

Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE ValidaTek, Inc.
PORT VILA, Vanuatu, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Multi-asset broker Vantage Markets ("Vantage") recently concluded its #TradeforHope initiative, dedicated to supporting Instituto Claret, a prominent charity organisation in Brazil.

Vantage Markets' #TradeForHope Campaign Raises Vital Funds for Instituto Claret in Brazil

Instituto Claret is devoted to enhancing the lives of vulnerable communities through a range of initiatives, including programs for child development, family assistance, violence prevention, homeless support, food security, and vocational training. These efforts have a tangible and positive effect on thousands of individuals each month, demonstrating the organisation's unwavering dedication to community welfare.

From March 18th to 22nd, 2024, Vantage held the #TradeForHope initiative, aimed at benefiting Instituto Claret's social programs in Brazil. This global campaign underscores Vantage Markets' firm commitment to its social responsibility.

#TradeforHope witnessed a healthy participation from traders, highlighting the collective determination to support a worthy cause. Marc Despallieres, Chief Strategy and Trading Officer at Vantage Markets, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from clients, emphasising the resonance of Instituto Claret's mission with the company's core values. "We are humbled by the warm support from our clients for such a worthy cause," stated Despallieres.

"Instituto Claret's dedication to providing essential services to disadvantaged communities in Brazil resonates deeply with our values. The success of the #TradeForHope initiative reflects the collective commitment of our clients and team towards making a positive impact."

For more information about Instituto Claret, please visit https://www.institutoclaret.org.br

About Vantage

Vantage is a multi-asset broker offering clients access to a nimble and powerful service for trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs) products, including Forex, Commodities, Indices, Shares, ETFs, and Bonds.

With over 13 years of market experience, Vantage transcends the role of broker, providing a trusted trading ecosystem, an award-winning mobile trading app, and a user-friendly trading platform that empowers clients to seize trading opportunities. Download the Vantage App on App Store or Google Play.

trade smarter @vantage

http://www.vantagemarkets.com/

SOURCE Vantage
New Visible+ plan includes $10/day international Global Pass, faster mobile hotspot, more roaming data, and smartwatch connectivity  all for the same cost of $45 per month

DENVER, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Visible , the first all-digital wireless service in the U.S., offering unlimited data, messages, minutes, and hotspot, powered by Verizon, today announced several new enhancements to its premium Visible+ plan, including Global Pass for international travel spanning 140 countries, up to two times faster unlimited mobile hotspot, and more roaming data throughout Canada and Mexico. As part of its mission to be a radically simple and accessible wireless carrier, Visible will maintain its premium Visible+ plan's rate at $45 per month, with taxes and fees included. New offerings included in the Visible+ plan are:

Global Pass for International Travel : This new feature provides Visible+ members international service in 140 countries with a flat rate of $10 /day for unlimited talk and text, and 2GB of high speed data. As an exclusive benefit for Visible+ members, one day of Global Pass usage per month is included. Users can easily activate the Global Pass through the Visible app.

This new feature provides Visible+ members international service in 140 countries with a flat rate of /day for unlimited talk and text, and 2GB of high speed data. As an exclusive benefit for Visible+ members, one day of Global Pass usage per month is included. Users can easily activate the Global Pass through the Visible app. Premium Mobile Hotspot (using phone as a WiFi connection): Members on the new Visible+ plan can experience an increased mobile hotspot speed of up to 10 Mbps, up to two times faster than before. This also allows members to have an improved experience when connecting more than one device.

Members on the new Visible+ plan can experience an increased mobile hotspot speed of up to 10 Mbps, up to two times faster than before. This also allows members to have an improved experience when connecting more than one device. Smartwatch Connectivity: Smartwatch service is now included with the Visible+ plan, offering added convenience and value for members, for no extra fee.

Smartwatch service is now included with the Visible+ plan, offering added convenience and value for members, for no extra fee. Unlimited Data When Roaming in Canada and Mexico : Visible+ members will have increased full-speed roaming data in Canada and Mexico , up from 0.5 GB to 2GB per day. After 2GB, unlimited data is at 3G speed for the remainder of the day.

Visible+ members will have increased full-speed roaming data in and , up from 0.5 GB to 2GB per day. After 2GB, unlimited data is at 3G speed for the remainder of the day. Connection Protection: After a massively successful first year, Connection Protection is now a standard feature for all Visible members. This one-of-a-kind program allows members facing layoffs to apply to receive service on us for up to three months. Visible is proud to provide this valuable support during these challenging times.

"At Visible, we are driven by our commitment to our customers," said Jeremy Bolton, Managing Director of Visible. "Our upgrades to the Visible+ plan  including a wireless plan that travels with you, wearable connectivity to fit your needs, and increased speeds  are a testament to delivering exceptional and transparent service, as we aim to make Visible the most accessible, responsive, and innovative wireless carrier, all while maintaining affordability."

Visible's biggest plan update all year, the new Visible+ plan brings big perks to its members, who already enjoy features including unlimited talk, text, and data, with 50 GB of premium data on 5G and 4G LTE and unlimited premium data on Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband network. As always, members also experience unlimited mobile hotspot (using the phone as a WiFi connection), eSIM compatibility, plus international connectivity with Canada and Mexico calling and texting, and calling from the U.S. to 30+ countries and international texting from the U.S. to 200+ countries.

New members can sign up for Visible+ plan by signing up today: visible.com/plans/plus. Existing members on the Visible+ plan can get the new features by also visiting visible.com/plans/plus and upgrading their plan.

About Visible

Visible is the first all-digital wireless service in the US, offering unlimited data, messages, minutes, and hotspot, powered by Verizon, 5G included. On a mission to dramatically change the wireless service experience, Visible has been named to Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies list and has been named "Best Telecom Brand" in Adweek's Challenger Brand Awards. Known for its commitment to giving back to the community it serves, Visible's social impact platform, Visible Impacts, helps people in need connect with their most basic needs: food, work, and inclusive communities.

Visible is a division of Verizon and powered by Verizon's award-winning networks. For more information, visit www.visible.com or search for our service in the App Store or the Play Store .

Media Contact

Lindsey Cohen

[email protected]

SOURCE Visible
Charitable Foundation Donates $6,000 to Local Non-Profits in Their Honor

WESTERLY, R.I., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Washington Trust recently recognized six employees for their exceptional leadership, teamwork, and community service during the company's annual Employee Fest. To celebrate the employees, the Washington Trust Charitable Foundation made donations totaling $6,000 to local nonprofit organizations chosen by the award winners.

Washington Trust made a $1,000 donation to Dorcas International Institute of RI on behalf of Louis Arias, in recognition of his recent employee award. Pictured from L to R: Paige Jones, Case Manager at Dorcas International Institute of RI; Louis Arias, Flex Banker at the future Washington Trust Olneyville Branch; and Emily Crandall, Donor Relations & Volunteer Services Manager at Dorcas International Institute of RI.

"We are proud to honor these outstanding employees for their extraordinary service," said Edward O. "Ned" Handy III, Chairman & CEO. "Washington Trust's continued success as a community bank and recognition as a best place to work is due to the spirit, dedication, and service excellence provided by employees like Peter, Jenny, Diane, Thea, Louis, and Vanessa."

The Spirit of Washington Trust Award was presented to the following employees for customer service excellence, teamwork, high standards of performance, dedication, and service to others:

Spirit of Washington Trust Award: Peter Curtis , Senior Documentation Specialist, Loan Operations, directed a $1,000 donation to St. Michael's School in Pawcatuck, CT

Senior Documentation Specialist, Loan Operations, directed a donation to St. Michael's School in Spirit of Washington Trust Award : Jenny Mistrik , Officer and Westerly McQuade's Branch Manager, directed a $1,000 donation to the Frank Olean Center in Westerly, RI

, Officer and Westerly McQuade's Branch Manager, directed a donation to the Frank Olean Center in Spirit of Washington Trust Award: Diane Lynch , Vice President, Consumer Lending, directed a $1,000 donation to the Down Syndrome Society of Rhode Island in Warwick, RI

In 2023, Washington Trust employees volunteered more than 8,100 hours of their time with local nonprofit organizations. Employees who demonstrated extraordinary voluntary community service and contributions were presented with the Community Service Award and the Stella Nova Award:

Community Service Award: Thea Becker , Vice President, Assistant Audit Director, directed a $1,000 donation to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank located in Providence, RI

, Vice President, Assistant Audit Director, directed a donation to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank located in Stella Nova Award: Louis Arias , Flex Banker at the future Olneyville Branch, directed a $1,000 donation to Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island , located in Providence, RI

, Flex Banker at the future Olneyville Branch, directed a donation to Dorcas International Institute of , located in Stella Nova Award: Vanessa Botelho , Flex Banker at the Rumford Branch, directed a $1,000 donation to the National Association on Mental Illness located in Providence, RI

To explore opportunities to join the team at Washington Trust, visit washtrust.com/careers.

ABOUT WASHINGTON TRUST

Founded in 1800, Washington Trust is recognized as the oldest community bank in the nation, the largest state-chartered bank headquartered in Rhode Island and one of the Northeast's premier financial services companies. Washington Trust values its role as a community bank and is committed to helping the people, businesses, and organizations of New England improve their financial lives. The Bank offers a wide range of commercial banking, mortgage banking, personal banking and wealth management services through its offices in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts and a full suite of convenient digital tools. Washington Trust is a member of the FDIC and an equal housing lender. Washington Trust is a subsidiary of Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc., a publicly-owned holding company which trades onNASDAQ: WASH. For more information, visit the Bank's website at www.washtrust.com or the Corporation's website at ir.washtrust.com.

SOURCE The Washington Trust Company
Editor's note: This is the second of a series of peakbagging hikes provided by Bozeman native Mike Pierre.

This week, Bozemanite Mike Pierre shifts his hiking sights to the Beartooth Range in south-central Montana and one of its peaks, Grass Mountain.

"At just over 11,000 feet of elevation, Grass Mountain is one of the most accessible mountains in the Beartooths," he wrote. "There isnt trail the entire way, but the plateau hiking isnt bad at all."

The mountain is atop the Red Lodge Creek Plateau, between the West Fork Rock Creek and East Rosebud Creek drainages.

"This mountain is a great place to view some of the biggest peaks in Montana. Silver Run, Whitetail, Sundance, Sylvan, Wood, Hague and more can be seen from the top," Pierre added.

The hike is about 13 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 3,200 feet, according to Pierre.

The trail starts at the end of the West Fork Rock Creek drainage about 13 miles west of Red Lodge. This is also the trailhead for Quinnebaugh Meadows. Instead of an easy stroll up the creek bottom, however, to get to Grass Mountain requires climbing up the Camp Senia Trail #16.
NEW YORK, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- WealthManagement.com is named a finalist for three 2024 Jesse H. Neal Awards: Best Industry Coverage: RIAs; Best News Coverage, and Best Media Brand.

"We're honored to once again be a finalist for the Neal Awards, and I'm particularly proud of the categories in which WealthManagement.com is a finalist," said Wealth Management Group's director of editorial strategy and operations David Armstrong. "The categories we have been recognized in reflect the collaborative nature of our work. While these are journalism awards, the recognition is shared by all for efforts that span the website, our editorial coverage, podcasts and videos, our research, and our events."

The recognition is shared by all for efforts that span the website, our editorial, podcasts, videos, research, events. Post this

WealthManagement.com's entry for Best Industry Coverage was its coverage of the RIA industry in total, including news articles, research, podcasts, and the RIA Edge 100 List.

For Best News Coverage, WealthManagement.com entered its coverage of the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. WealthManagement.com coverage of the financial advisors caught up in the regional banking crisis last year was executed with contributions from the entire editorial team. WealthManagement.com Senior Reporter Patrick Donachie's article led our submission package for this entry, while managing editor Diana Britton set up a data center to follow the SVB advisor diaspora.

The Best Range of Work by a Media Brand category recognizes the quality of the sum total of WealthManagement.com output as a media brand covering the business of financial advice, including editorial, research, events and marketing. Special recognition goes to content production manager Michael Samuels for his digital finesse, to digital product director Kelly Lambert for her in-depth knowledge of our digital products and research, and to the events team for the Wealth Management Industry Awards portal.

The 2024 Neal Award winners will be announced and honored at a New York City luncheon on April 26.

About WealthManagement.com

WealthManagement.com, an Informa business, provides everything wealth professionals need to know to stay knowledgeable about the industry, build stronger relationships, improve their practice, and grow their business. WealthManagement.com offers financial services organizations a broad array of marketing services designed to help them influence the industry's leading audience of wealth management professionals.

About Informa

Informa PLC is a leading, international business to business information services Group, operating in over 30 countries. We create transaction-led exhibitions and content-based events, specialist data, intelligence and marketing services products, as well as scholarly research and specialist reference-led academic content. Our products and services help businesses and professionals connect, learn, do business and gain an edge over the competition. Informa is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is a member of the FTSE 100.

SOURCE WealthManagement.com
DUBLIN, March 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The "West Africa Alcoholic Beverages Market Report by Product Type, Packaging Type, Distribution Channel, and Region 2024-2032" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The West Africa alcoholic beverages market size reached US$ 13.2 Billion in 2023 and is forecast to reach US$ 21.8 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% during 2023-2032. The rising consumption of alcoholic beverages among the masses, the rising popularity of socializing among individuals, and the introduction of mixed and flavored alcoholic beverages represent some of the key factors driving the market.

The Rising Middle-Class Population is Augmenting the Market Growth

Africa, the second-largest continent in the world, is emerging as one of the fastest-growing economies globally. The region's economy has been on an upward trajectory, with several West African countries exhibiting impressive annual GDP growth rates. This growth rate is much higher than that of many other developing countries worldwide. As a result, the middle-class population in the region is growing, with consumers having more disposable income levels. Thus, increasing purchasing power causes a shift in spending patterns, with media and other influencing factors playing a significant role in shaping consumer behavior. As consumers in the region continue to enjoy higher levels of disposable income, their preferences have shifted towards non-essential and recreational products. This trend is benefiting the overall alcoholic beverages industry and can be attributed to the rising demand for leisure and recreational activities among the middle-class population in West Africa.

Competitive analysis such as market structure, market share by key players, player positioning, top winning strategies, competitive dashboard, and company evaluation quadrant has been covered in the report. Also, detailed profiles of all major companies have been provided. The market structure is concentrated with only three major players operating in the market due to a moderate growth rate. The volume of new entrants is moderate in the West Africa alcoholic beverages industry due to high brand development and marketing cost.

West Africa Alcoholic Beverages Market Trends:

The increasing consumption of alcoholic beverages among the masses majorly drives the market in West Africa. This can be supported by the growing demand for certain types of alcoholic beverages, such as craft beer, premium wine, and high-end spirits, due to the changing consumer preferences for unique and high-quality products. In addition, the rising popularity of socializing and attending mid-week and weekend parties among young adults and working professionals is positively influencing the market. With the shifting trend towards urbanization is resulting in the introduction of premium beverages that are associated with sophistication, is providing a boost to the sales of alcoholic beverages across the region.

In addition, the growing preference for experimenting with a range of flavored alcohols and mixed beverages is also driving the market. Furthermore, continual technological advancements, such as the emergence of automation, data analytics, and e-commerce, are creating a positive market outlook for leading companies to determine the market trend and enhance production and distribution efficiency, are significantly supporting the demand. Some of the other factors driving the market include rapid urbanization and inflating disposable income levels of the masses.

Key Market Segmentation:

The report provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the West Africa alcoholic beverages market report, along with forecasts at the regional and country levels from 2024-2032. The report has categorized the market based on product type, packaging type and distribution channel.

Product Type Insights:

Beer

Spirits

Wine

Others

According to the report, beer represented the largest segment due to the changing consumer preferences. As consumers become more health conscious, they are opting for low or no-alcohol beer options, which is acting as another growth-inducing factor. Additionally, craft beer is emerging as a significant trend among the masses due to its unique and authentic flavors. Another driver is the increasing demand for premium beer options. As disposable incomes rise, consumers are willing to spend more on high-quality beers. This trend has also led to an increase in the popularity of imported beer options, as consumers prefer exotic tastes from different parts of the world.

Packaging Type Insights:

Glass Bottles

Tins

Plastic Bottles

Others

According to the report, glass bottles accounted for the largest market share due to the growing trend toward premiumization in the alcoholic beverages industry. Consumers are willing to pay more for high-quality, premium products, and glass bottles help to convey this premium image, which is driving the demand. Moreover, an enhanced focus on sustainability is positively influencing the glass bottles segment.

Distribution Channel Insights:

Open Markets

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets

Hotels/Restaurants/Bars

Specialty Stores

Others

According to the report, open markets represented the largest segment due to the easy availably of premium and craft beverages via open markets. Along with this, the emergence of small, independent producers who offer unique and innovative products that cater to the demand for craft beverages. Moreover, the growth of e-commerce and online sales platforms, have made it easier for consumers to access and purchase alcoholic beverages, propelling the market.

Competitive Landscape:

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the West Africa alcoholic beverages market.

Some of the companies covered in the report include:

Diageo

Heineken International

Anheuser-Busch

Castel Group

Kasapreko Company

Tambour Original

Regional Insights:

Nigeria

Ghana

Cote de Ivorie

Cameroon

Senegal

Others

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/1u1q27

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]



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SOURCE Research and Markets
Xixian New Area Administrative Committee

XI'AN, China, March 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Shaanxi, a province located in west China, is famous for its rich historical sites and profound cultural heritage. However, Xixian New Area, which connects the main urban areas of the cities of Xi'an and Xianyang, is refreshing the stereotype of this inland province: Shaanxi is becoming a trendsetter in China in terms of empowering regional high-quality development with sci-tech innovation.

In 2021, Shaanxi launched the Qinchuangyuan Platform, an innovation-driven base committed to creating a comprehensive and facilitating incubator, an accelerator for the utilization of sci-tech research achievements and a promoter for the integration of the talent chain and the industrial chain to boost regional high-quality development, according to Xixian New Area Administrative Committee.

As the first national-level new area in China highlighting innovative urban development, Xixian New Area has been established as the general carrier of the Qinchuangyuan Platform, which continuously stimulates the vitality of regional economic development by deepening reform in key areas and boosting the efficiency of the innovation-driven platform.

In 2022, Shaanxi piloted three reforms, allowing and supporting sci-tech researchers in provincial-level comprehensive and science and engineering universities to be able to turn their research achievements into market projects, further stimulating the innovation drive and entrepreneurship vitality of sci-tech professionals.

This policy set has been widely used, and has gradually formed a whole chain service to promote the utilization of sci-tech research achievements, generating remarkable outcomes across the province.

After the implementation of the policy, the province's volume of contracted technology transactions has increased by more than 30 percent for three consecutive years.

Last year saw the province's contracted technology transactions reach a record high of 412.076 billion yuan, and a total of 35,124 local technology utilization contracts, which accounted for 50.38 percent of the total contracts. The local utilization of contracted technology transactions stood at 160.117 billion yuan, accounting for 38.86 percent of the total turnover.

With the help of the Qinchuangyuan Platform, high-tech and advanced manufacturing industries such as hydrogen energy, photovoltaics, intelligent networked vehicles, special vehicles, biomedicine, CNC machine tools and aerospace have developed rapidly in Xixian New Area.

By the end of 2023, the number of national high-tech enterprises and the number of small and medium-sized sci-tech firms in the area increased by 5.8 times and 5.5 times respectively compared with 2021.

In Xixian, some tech start-ups are thriving. In just a few years, the market valuations of Sensecraft Technology and Hydrotransformer have increased by 30 times and 120 times respectively. Firms like XiopmSpace have made remarkable breakthroughs in core technologies of the industry.

Nowadays, Xixian New Area has become the development engine of Shaanxi and even northwest China. Last year, the area's GDP increased by 7.9 percent year on year, 2.3 times that of the same period in 2017, while its per capita regional GDP doubled.

While seeking its own fast development, Xixian New Area also promotes regional coordinated development by optimizing the industrial development layout and supporting other cities in Shaanxi.

Xixian New Area has initiated the establishment of the Qinchuangyuan Innovation Promotion Center Alliance with a total of 13 member centers in cities and industries across Shaanxi, and issued ten initiatives to promote the coordination among different cities.

Shaanxi's government work report for 2024 has proposed to further strengthen the leading role of innovation by implementing eight major actions of sci-tech innovation.

The province seeks to make good use of the three pools of science and technology, talents and capital to build about 20 provincial-level Qinchuangyuan future industrial innovation clusters, and strive to increase the added value of strategic emerging industries by 8 percent by creating a number of new growth engines.

As the only national new area in Shaanxi, Xixian New Area has formulated a detailed timetable and agenda for high-quality development this year. The area vows to step up efforts in modernizing its industrial system and deepening reform and innovation to achieve fresh progress and momentum on all fronts.

Yang Renhua, Party secretary of the Administrative Committee of Xixian New Area, has called for enhanced efforts in developing the area as the general carrier of the Qinchuangyuan Platform.

The three reforms will be further pushed forward, and new development tracks and space will be explored by unleashing the power of new quality productive forces in a move to provide more Xixian experience and samples for the realization of Chinese modernization, Yang added.

SOURCE Xixian New Area Administrative Committee
This acquisition expands Woolpert's geospatial solutions footprint in Europe and supports the expansion and advancement of mapping technology and innovation.

DAYTON, Ohio, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Woolpert has acquired Murphy Geospatial, a multidisciplinary geospatial solutions company that is headquartered in Kilcullen, Ireland. Murphy Geospatial is a private, family-owned geospatial solutions company that delivers a broad range of services that include survey, mobile and indoor mapping, asset monitoring, subsurface engineering, and 3D digital twin development. The firm has a staff of nearly 400 across six offices in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Woolpert welcomes Murphy Geospatial, a multidisciplinary geospatial solutions company headquartered in Kilcullen, Ireland.

Woolpert is a private, U.S.-based architecture, engineering, and geospatial firm that was founded in 1911 and has been providing comprehensive and integrated geospatial services for more than 50 years. Woolpert President Neil Churman said this acquisition is focused on the expansion and elevation of Woolpert's geospatial capabilities in Europe. This union will enable the companies to align best practices, leverage operational efficiencies, and advance services that include survey, reality capture, BIM, asset monitoring, GIS, and all forms of mapping.

"Over the last four decades, Murphy Geospatial has solidified itself as an innovative geospatial partner throughout Ireland, the UK, and the surrounding regions," Churman said. "Together with Murphy Geospatial, Woolpert will expand its geospatial presence in Europe to improve our offering to customers, accelerate next-level solutions, and provide vital support to the infrastructure, manufacturing, construction, property, utility, and natural environment sectors."

Murphy Geospatial CEO Niall Murphy and his team will continue to lead Murphy Geospatial, a Woolpert Company, in strategic alignment with Woolpert. Murphy said the companies share a dedication to client service, geospatial innovation, industry leadership, and employee culture.

"We are thrilled to be joining forces with the Woolpert team," Murphy said. "Their long-standing history in the geospatial sector and commitment to creating a great place to work for employees makes them an ideal match for us. We look forward to taking this next step to better serving our valued clients and advancing the industry together."

About Murphy Geospatial

Founded over 40 years ago, Murphy Geospatial now has six offices across the UK and Ireland and employs nearly 400 experts who have delivered more than 27,000 projects. Murphy Geospatial captures, collates, verifies, and governs geospatial data, enabling its clients to make informed decisions to increase efficiencies, reduce risk, and enhance value across the project life cycle. Setting the standards in the industry, Murphy Geospatial delivers geospatial certainty you can trust. With proven geospatial solutions through the design, construction, and in-use phases of projects across six key sectors; Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Property, Natural Environment, Energy and Utilities. Services include geospatial consultancy, aerial/UAV surveys, BIM, digital construction, topographical surveys, laser scanning, property surveys, rail surveys, structural and environmental monitoring, subsurface investigation and more.

About Woolpert

Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG), and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private, and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is a Global Top 100 Geospatial Company, a Top 100 ENR Global Design firm, has earned seven Great Place to Work certifications, and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity, and respect. Founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, Woolpert has been America's fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. Woolpert has over 2,000 employees and more than 60 offices on five continents. Visit woolpert.com .

Media contacts:

Woolpert: Jill Kelley; 937-531-1258, [email protected]

Murphy Geospatial: Kirsty Ostell; 0191 2325690, [email protected]

SOURCE Woolpert
The Bismarck City Commission has approved an agreement under which embattled Bismarck Event Center Director Charlie Jeske would retire on April 2 in return for $325,000 in severance pay. The agreement now goes to Jeske.

The amount is 161% of Jeske's annual compensation of $201,077 in salary and benefits. Under the deal he also would maintain medical coverage under the city through April, which would be the final month of his employment. He also would be paid for any accrued leave time.

The City Commission in a special meeting Tuesday afternoon voted 4-1 to approve the deal, without discussion. Neither Jeske nor his attorney, Jesse Walstad, were in attendance, and Walstad did not immediately respond to a Tribune request for comment on whether Jeske would sign the agreement.

Mayor Mike Schmitz was the only dissenting vote, saying he voted against the agreement because of the "due diligence done and multiple recommendations made to this commission to the employment of Mr. Jeske." He did not immediately elaborate, but one of the earlier recommendations to the commission was that Jeske be fired.

The city did not immediately say where the $325,000 would come from.

The City Commission on Monday had scheduled the special meeting for Tuesday afternoon to decide on approval of the agreement "and mutual release of all claims" ahead of its Tuesday evening regular meeting, where action on Jeske's employment status had been on the agenda. The commission during the afternoon meeting removed that item from the regular meeting agenda.

The proposed agreement states that the two sides "wish to resolve this dispute on amicable and mutually agreeable terms to avoid any future inconvenience, costs, expenses, or fees associated with any legal or equitable proceedings in any forum in any jurisdiction," including state and federal court.

Jeske has been under scrutiny for months for alleged questionable dealings with vendors and poor management. Walstad in a March 4 letter to the City Commission alleged federal civil rights violations against Jeske including defamation, unlawful termination, hostile work environment, age discrimination, disability discrimination, violations of the Family and Medical Leave Act, retaliation and denial of due process.

Walstad's letter alleged lack of compliance with municipal ordinances and state and federal law, and said "litigation is now imminent."

The proposed agreement states that "Signing this agreement shall not be construed as an admission of guilt, liability, policy violation or wrongdoing by either party," and that "Rather, Jeske and the city seek to buy peace from any past, present, or future disputes that have or may arise between them with respect to Jeskes employment terms or conditions with the city."

The city in meeting materials said Jeske's retirement would take effect seven days from his signature, "which is April 2, 2024." The city said the delay for the retirement date is to comply with the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act, which the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission says guards against age discrimination.

The agreement would end months of turmoil and uncertainty over Jeske's employment status. He was initially placed on paid administrative leave Sept. 22. Former City Administrator Keith Hunke then fired him in late October following an internal investigation that concluded Jeske's interactions with some vendors were unethical and potentially criminal. Jeske has defended his leadership and experience.

The results of a state Bureau of Criminal Investigation probe have not yet been made public. Walstad said in late February that the probe had concluded without evidence of criminal wrongdoing and was with the Burleigh County States Attorneys Office. The state Attorney Generals Office -- which oversees BCI -- did not immediately respond to a Tribune request for comment Tuesday. State's Attorney Julie Lawyer was out of the office Tuesday and unavailable for comment.

The city investigation found that Jeske and another center employee took a trip in September 2015 that was paid for entirely by ETIX, a company that sells tickets for events, several months prior to ETIX winning a bid to become the ticket seller for center events. The report said additional potential conflicts of interest arose involving an Event Center liquor vendor and a promotion company.

Walstad in his March 4 letter maintained that the investigation report "recklessly asserted Mr. Jeske's involvement in bribery, kickbacks and other unsupported malfeasance and felonious conduct causing significant and irreparable damage to his professional reputation."

Jeske was put back on administrative leave in November following an administrative employee grievance meeting. He was reinstated to his role as director late that month, after he and Walstad argued that he hadnt received due process. A fact-finding committee was established and began meeting in early December to evaluate potential next steps.

The subcommittee concluded that Jeskes conduct violated city ethics policies. It also raised concerns about the Event Centers longstanding cash-only alcohol sales process, in which all cash leaves with vendors at the end of the night, and sales are then determined by counting cups and flats of beer, giving the Event Center figures to use to bill the vendor.

The subcommittee said it has very low assurance that the process ensures all profits are recouped, and recommended that the commission approve the implementation of a point-of-sale system, which includes a record of each transaction. It also suggested multiple other changes, including a "360-degree evaluation" at least every two years and the hiring of a risk assessment firm.

Throughout the fact-finding process, the subcommittee said, current and former employees expressed concerns about professionalism and treatment disparities between front-of-house and back-of-house workers, as well as communication issues and a fear of retribution.

The subcommittee at the Feb. 27 City Commission meeting recommended that Jeske be fired a second time, saying he had demonstrated a lack of leadership and questionable judgment for management. Walstad maintained that Jeske hadnt received negative feedback in more than a decade of annual performance reports that he characterized as overwhelmingly positive.

A final decision on Jeske's fate was expected at the City Commission's March 12 meeting, but the matter was tabled. No specific reason was given, but the commission the previous day had met in an executive session that was closed to the public under state law to receive attorney consultation regarding an imminent lawsuit -- an apparent reference to Walstad's March 4 notice of claims.

It later became apparent that the city and Jeske were negotiating a resolution. Bismarck attorney Brian Schmidt negotiated for the city. The city's insurance paid the cost of hiring Schmidt, according to city spokesman Kalen Ost.

Jeske has served as director of the Bismarck Event Center since 2008. Before that he was director of the Alerus Center in Grand Forks.
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Moscow, March 27 : Russian lawmakers are discussing lifting the moratorium on the country's death penalty, following a recent deadly terror attack at a Moscow concert hall.

"Today, there is no other form of punishment for these scumbags other than capital punishment," said Leonid Slutsky, head of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, referring to the suspects of the terrorist attack, at a plenary session of the State Duma, or lower house of the parliament, on Tuesday.

Slutsky also noted that incitement to terrorism should be punished by imprisonment, Xinhua news agency reported.

State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin proposed creating an inter-factional working group to analyze legislation regarding the use of the death penalty and migration policy.

Chairman of the State Duma Committee on State Building and Legislation Pavel Krasheninnikov said the committee is ready to discuss various proposals and bills on the moratorium on the death penalty, adding that it is ultimately important to "keep a cool head" when making such decisions.

According to current legislation, capital punishment remains legal in Russia, however, a moratorium on the death penalty was instituted in 1996, after the country had joined the Council of Europe. Russia's Constitutional Court imposed a ban on the death penalty in 1999.

The Kremlin said Monday that it is currently not taking part in any discussions on the potential return of the death penalty.

A shooting occurred last Friday in the Crocus City Hall concert venue in suburban Moscow, followed by a massive fire. The Russian Investigative Committee said that at least 139 people were killed as a result of the terrorist attack.
Day 4: Kerala Police still clueless about kidnappers of minor girl. Image Source: IANS News

Bengaluru, March 27 : Election officials have seized undocumented diamond, gold and silver articles valued at around Rs 4 crore in Karnataka's Chikkamagaluru district.

According to police, the valuables were seized at the M.C. Halli checkpost near Tarikere town on Tuesday. Officials seized diamond articles weighing over 1.7 kg, gold around 6.5 kg and 1 kg of silver articles.

The seizure was made during the inspection of vehicles at the checkpost from a truck.

As the concerned persons failed to produce relevant documents for the valuables, the police seized the articles and took up the investigation.

Sources said that the articles were being transported from Bengaluru to Shivamogga.

Separately, officers on election duty at the Pillekerenahalli checkpost in Chitradurga seized Rs 20.35 lakh cash on Tuesday.

A case has been registered at the Chitradurga Rural police station.
A Minnesota woman who authorities say fled to Mexico and was on the lam for more than a year has pleaded guilty in federal court in North Dakota to a drug conspiracy charge.

Deanna Gerads, 33, of Freeport, Minnesota, is to be sentenced July 2 for conspiracy to distribute and possess controlled substances with the intent to distribute them in Minnesota and North Dakota. She had been accused of working for a Mexican cartel.

Gerads was apprehended in Mexico on Aug. 1, 2023, by Mexican immigration authorities and deported. The FBI provided information that led to her apprehension, according to North Dakota U.S. Attorney Mac Schneider.

The case is part of Operation Unfinished Business II, an investigation into the international trafficking of meth, cocaine and fentanyl, he said.
Jaipur, March 26 : Rajasthan School Education Minister Madan Dilawar has ordered an inquiry into a state Education Board workbook that has the British flag printed on its cover.

Minister Madan Dilawar on Tuesday instructed the Director of Secondary Education, Bikaner, to investigate the matter and directed him to take adequate action against those found guilty.

The minister said that objections were raised recently regarding the Class 9 English Remedial Workbook published by Rajasthan State Educational Research and Training Council, Udaipur, on which the British flag was printed on the cover page.

He said it is being investigated at what level the decision to publish this book was taken.
Lucknow, March 27 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will start interacting with intellectuals from Wednesday, through 'Prabuddh Sammelans' where he will present a comprehensive account of the government's work.

The Chief Minister's Prabuddh Sammelans are set to begin from Western Uttar Pradesh, where elections will be held in the first few phases.

Through these proposed meetings until March 31, Yogi Adityanath will engage in dialogue with the people, laying the groundwork for the 'Phir ek bar, Modi sarkaara resolution ahead of the elections.

As per the schedule announced by the Bharatiya Janata Party, he will visit 15 districts over five days from March 27 to 31. His series of Prabuddh Sammelan will commence from Mathura, Meerut, and Ghaziabad on Wednesday, where he will engage with dignitaries and the general public.

On Thursday, March 28, Yogi Adityanath's schedule includes programmes in Bijnor, Moradabad, and Amroha, where he will interact with prominent individuals.

On March 29, he is scheduled to participate in the Prabuddh Sammelan in Shamli, Muzaffarnagar, and Saharanpur.

Continuing this momentum, on March 30, he will attend Prabuddh Sammelan in Baghpat (Modinagar), Bulandshahr, and Gautam Buddha Nagar.

Lastly, on March 31, he will be present at Prabuddh Sammelans in Bareilly, Rampur, and Pilibhit.

Through these 'Prabuddha Sammelans,' the Chief Minister aims to provide detailed information about the achievements of both the state and the Central governments. He will also discuss the schemes benefiting the common people under the double-engine government.

The Chief Minister had previously organised a similar Prabuddha Sammelan before the 2023 civic elections, significantly benefiting the BJP and leading to a clean sweep in all municipal corporations.

CM Yogi Adityanath is again gearing up with the mission of a clean sweep in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections through these conferences.
New Delhi, March 27 : A 32-year-old restaurant owner was shot dead by unidentified persons in northeast Delhi's Usmanpur area, police said on Wednesday, adding that multiple rounds were fired.

The deceased was identified as Sanjay, a resident of 1st Pushta, New Usmanpur, who owns a restaurant named 'Goa Bar' in the area.

Police said that multiple bullets were pumped in Sanjay and seven empty shells, four lead pieces and one live round of 7.65 mm were found at the spot.

The police are probing the incident from all angles, including personal enmity.

According to officials, in the intervening night of Tuesday-Wednesday, at about 12:05 a.m, Nitin was informed by a friend that his brother, Sanjay had been shot near Hanuman Mandir Wali Gali service Road, 2nd pusta Usmanpur.

"When Nitin reached the spot, he found his brother bleeding at the spot. The victim had sustained injury in his head, right shoulder, right elbow and right-side abdomen area. He was rushed to Jag Pravesh Chandra Hospital, where he was declared brought dead," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (northeast) Joy Tirkey.

The DCP said that Sanjay was earlier involved in a murder case. He along with his associates, Pradeep, Bijender and Bhanwar Singh had murdered one Ravinder, a resident of the same locality.

"Sanjay was riding a motorcycle at the time of the incident. All aspects are being explored. Efforts are being made to identify the culprits. CCTVs in the area are being scanned," said the DCP.
Tel Aviv, March 27 : One of the Israeli hostages abducted by Hamas from the Supernova festival on October 7, 2023, has been killed and his body is being held in Gaza, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

The hostage, identified as Uriel Baruch (35), was survived by his wife, Racheli, and their two children, ages 8 and 5.

"Uriel Baruch, of blessed memory, was a joyful person who loved life. He worked in construction and loved techno music. Uriel was always surrounded by friends, most of whom called him by the affectionate nickname aBadalu,'" the Forum said in a statement.
Los Angeles, March 27 : Former James Bond depicter Pierce Brosnan has given his stamp of approval to actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson to play the suave spy.

Taylor-Johnson is rumoured to be the next 007 agent. Brosnan played James Bond through the 1990s.

Talking about the next to take on the role of the spy agent, Brosnan said that Taylor-Johnson "has the chops" to take it on, reports deadline.

Brosnan starred with Taylor-Johnson in the 2009 film 'The Greatest'.

"One of the first movies we made, one of our earliest movies, was The Greatest  and he was in it," Brosnan said.

"He was The Greatest in it. It's a lovely movie with Aaron and Carey Mulligan and Susan Sarandon and myself. So yes, I read the news about his possibilities of being a Bond, so I would definitely tip my hat to the fellow."

If Taylor-Johnson becomes the next Bond, Brosnan advises the actor: "Be bold. Go out there, have a great time. Just love it. Just go for it."
New Delhi, March 27 : The Centre has appointed Sadanand Vasant Date as the Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), while IPS officers Rajeev Kumar Sharma and Piyush Anand have been appointed as DGs of Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) respectively.

The Secretariat of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet Ministry of Personnel has given the approval for the appointments.

An order issued on Tuesday stated, "Appointment of Sadanand Vasant Date, IPS (MH/90), as Director General, National Investigation Agency in Level-16 from the date of joining the post, for a tenure up to his superannuation on 31.12.2026 or until further orders, whichever is earlier, vice Dinkar Gupta, IPS (PB/87) upon his superannuation on 31.03.2024."

Rajasthan cadre IPS officer (1990 batch) Rajeev Kumar Sharma has been appointed as the DG of BPRD for a tenure up to his superannuation on June 30, 2026 or until further orders.

IPS officer Piyush Anand (Uttar Pradesh cadre 1991 batch) presently working as Special DG, CISF, has been appointed as the NDRF chief.
Seoul, March 27 : South Korea's health ministry on Wednesday appealed to defiant junior doctors to come forward for talks with the government, as a prolonged walkout by trainee doctors has crippled major hospitals for more than five weeks.

Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo urged defiant trainee doctors to "form a responsible delegation and come to the dialogue table with the government", Yonhap news agency reported.

Despite the government's repeated appeals for talks, trainee doctors have refused to do so, citing a lack of their representatives, according to ministry officials.

About 12,000 interns and resident doctors have remained off the job since February 20 in protest of the push to hike the number of medical students, forcing surgeries and other public health services to be cancelled or delayed at major hospitals.

In support of junior doctors' labour action, medical professors, who are senior doctors at major university hospitals, have also begun tendering their resignations, starting this week.

Park said the government will provide more fiscal policy support for public healthcare systems next year, including financial support for trainee doctors, the report said.
Florida, March 27 : 2023 finalist and No.4 seed Elena Rybakina made a return trip to the Miami Open semifinals with a 7-5, 6-7(4), 6-4 win over No.8 seed Maria Sakkari.

Rybakina won the first set despite losing a 4-2 lead, and rallied from that deficit in the second set to earn herself two match points in the 10th game -- but she failed to convert.

A missed backhand in the net cost her the first, and a Sakkari down-the-line forehand was too much for her to handle on the second -- and a half-hour later, Indian Wells runner-up Sakkari forced a final set, WTA reports.

She will next need to knock off three-time tournament champion Victoria Azarenka to advance the final to the final at Hard Rock Stadium for the second year in a row.

Former World No.1 Azarenka defeated another Kazakh, Yulia Putintseva, in a three-set quarterfinal earlier Tuesday.

No.27 seed Azarenka needed 2 hours and 55 minutes of play to fend off unseeded Putintseva and clinch a spot in the Miami semifinals for the fifth time in her career.

Azarenka is playing Miami for the 15th time, having won the title in 2009, 2011 and 2016. She has 43 career match-wins at the event, fifth-most behind only Serena Williams (76), Venus Williams (67), Stefanie Graf (59) and Gabriela Sabatini (45).
Lucknow, March 27 : A 20-year-old woman was found dead under mysterious circumstances near the panchayat bhawan of a village under Tikaitganj police station limits here on Tuesday evening.

Senior police officials said that the woman had gone missing from home 12 hours ago.

The victimas mother, meanwhile, raised suspicion that her daughter was raped and murdered as she had spotted three men near the crime scene when she was looking for her daughter the previous night.

Police officials said one of the suspects was taken into custody and further investigations were on.

The body has been sent for postmortem, and the doctors have been asked to share their opinion on a possible sexual assault on the deceased woman.

Circle Officer Ramsanehi Ghat (Barabanki), J S Mishra, said the womanas body was spotted lying near the panchayat bhawan by a local. The mother had told the police that her daughter went missing after she went out to attend the natureas call on Monday.

The mother has also raised suspicion about the involvement of a youth from the same village as her family had strained relations with him following which he was taken into custody.
New Delhi: BJP MP Dilip Ghosh at the Parliament, on the second part of Budget Session, in New Delhi on Thursday, March 24, 2022. (Photo: Qamar Sibtain/IANS). Image Source: IANS News

Kolkata, March 27 : The BJP, on Wednesday, issued a show-cause notice to the party candidate from Bardhaman-Durgapur constituency in West Bengal, Dilip Ghosh, for his derogatory comments about Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The notice comes a day after Trinamool Congress filed a complaint against Ghosh, also the party's former state president and ex-national vice president, on this count to the Election Commission (ECI) through the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal.

Insiders from the state unit of BJP have asked Ghosh to tender an apology besides explaining what prompted him to make such a derogatory comment against the Chief Minister.

Admitting the receipt of the notice, Ghosh said that he does not have any personal enmity with the Chief Minister. "I have just protested against her political comments through which she had been trying to mislead people," Ghosh said.

At the same time, he raised questions of a section of Trinamool Congress leadership using more derogatory language against the father of one of the leading BJP legislators in West Bengal.

"Doesn't that party MLA have a similar self-respect? Why didn't the party issue any statement on that matter then?" Ghosh questioned.

Although he did not name anyone, Ghosh's clear indication was towards the leader of the opposition in West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari and his father Sisir Adhikari, who have been subjected to scathing and derogatory attacks by some ruling Trinamool Congress leaders.
Editor's note: This is the second in a series of three stories on the Republican candidates for North Dakota's lone U.S. House seat.

Former Republican state Sen. Rick Becker wasnt afraid to stir the pot during his time in the North Dakota Legislature. Now, hes looking to challenge Washington conventions as he makes a bid to be the Republican nominee for North Dakotas sole seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Becker, a plastic surgeon from Bismarck, was first elected to the state House of Representatives in 2012 for a two-year term due to redistricting. He went on to be elected to four-year terms in 2014 and 2018. Hes perhaps best known in North Dakota political circles for his formation of the ultraconservative Bastiat Caucus, and for his sometimes vocal advocacy on issues such as the elimination of property tax and the outlawing of sobriety checkpoints. He's now seeking higher office in the wake of U.S. Rep. Kelly Armstrong's decision to run for governor instead of another term in the U.S. House.

Becker said that as an elected official, he stayed true to the campaign promises he made to voters, often standing up against legislative leaders and garnering varying degrees of success. He said he doesnt view such actions as a roadblock to progress  and argued that Washington needs a legislator like him who is willing to be a bull in a china shop.

You can be principled, Becker said. You can fight for the right thing, even if it means standing up against your own leadership, and still accomplish very, very good things for the people.

One issue that Becker views as the right thing is the elimination of property tax. He championed the matter in the Legislature, and has been chairing the committee thats collecting signatures for a ballot measure that would enshrine such a change in state law.

Though the ballot measure has circulated while hes campaigned, Becker and his pet project will have two different days of reckoning: The state partys Republican nomination is decided at the June primary, while the committee is seeking to place the ballot measure on the November general election ballot. Becker said the ballot measure is not an attempt to bolster his name recognition, and is instead a delayed endeavor after the COVID-19 pandemic caused challenges to signature collection.

Becker is no stranger to bids for statewide elected office: He made a gubernatorial run in 2016 that fizzled at the state convention when he didnt win the party endorsement. And in 2022, he mounted a challenge against incumbent U.S. Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., during which he nearly received the state GOPs endorsement at that years convention.

Hoeven prevailed, however, and Becker suspended his campaign. Months later he hopped back in the race as an independent, eventually coming in third place in the general election with 18.5% of the vote.

That decision to run as an independent means Becker cant seek the partys endorsement at its 2024 convention, which is scheduled for the first week of April in Fargo, because the state party ruled that any candidate who runs under any other political banner cant be endorsed for six years.

Becker said he does plan to attend the convention as a delegate, but indicated that he doesnt plan to push to change the partys eligibility rule this year.

I think it should be changed back, Becker said. It'd be probably too contentious to try and do it right now. But I think after this election cycle, it should change back -- it would be better for the delegates.

In the meantime, he said, he will leave the decision in the voters hands when he competes in the June primary.

He'll be up against Public Service Commissioner Julie Fedorchak, who is seeking the state partys endorsement but has pledged to continue to the primary no matter the results. Military veteran and Republican candidate Alex Balazs told the Tribune that he is competing for the party endorsement, but didnt say whether he would continue campaigning if the state GOP didnt back him. Former state Sen. Tom Campbell, a Grafton potato farmer, was another House candidate but withdrew from the race on Tuesday.

Becker said that if hes elected, chief on his list of priorities is the countrys national debt. He criticized the governments spending overseas in the face of an ongoing budget deficit, and said hes an America-first candidate who believes in taking a step back and reevaluating what we've been doing and how we should move forward, expressing worries about the ways the national debt could impact future generations.

He also raised issues with the countrys immigration policies, saying that the country is suffering from what he sees as a wide open border and citing fentanyl overdose deaths as one of the primary issues at hand.

Becker said a driving factor behind his campaign is an overwhelming concern about the direction the country is heading. In Washington, he hopes hed be able to achieve compromise with other lawmakers without sacrificing the things that would necessarily indicate you're going against your principles  though a gridlocked Congress could make that process difficult.

I don't know if it's too late, Becker said. Im optimistic and I have to believe it's not too late. What I do know is that we are going to turn things around in the country. The only way we can do that is by having bold, strong principled people in Washington.
Lucknow, March 27 : A man hit and killed his mother by hitting her with a LPG cylinder after she refused to let him consume liquor in the house.

The incident took place in Aashiana area in Lucknow on Sunday but police registered an FIR on Tuesday under 304 (culpable homicide) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) IPC.

According to reports, the accused Virendra wanted to consume liquor in the house.

His father Ram Prasad, 65, in his police complaint said, "After we refused to let him do so, he started fighting with us. In a fit of rage, he first hit me with the cylinder after which I came out of the house. But then he hit his 62-year-old mother Shyamavati who started bleeding and fell unconscious."

Shyamavati was admitted to Lok Bandhu hospital but died during treatment, he added.

Virendra is yet to be arrested.
Bengaluru, March 27 : The Karnataka Lokayukta was conducting simultaneous raids at 58 locations across the state against government officers on Wednesday.

According to sources, a team of more than 130 officers, including 13 SPs, 12 Deputy SPs, and 25 police inspectors, was conducting the raids. The raids were taking place in Bengaluru, Bidar, Ramanagara, Uttara Kannada, and Kalaburagi districts.

The sleuths were conducting raids at five locations on properties owned by the Chief Engineer of BBMP in Bengaluru.

The residence and properties of an executive engineer attached to the Water Resources Department in Kalaburagi, as well as three locations in Bidar, were also being raided.

The residence of a Panchayat Development Officer (PDO) was also raided in Ramanagara district.

The raids were being conducted based on information gathered about the accumulation of wealth by officers disproportionate to their income.

The Lokayukta is yet to issue an official statement regarding this matter.
Bengaluru, March 27 : The Chikkodi Lok Sabha seat in Karnataka is all set for a mega clash between a young woman who is a new face and a senior politician with powerful connections in New Delhi.

The BJP has fielded sitting MP, 60-year-old Annasaheb Jolle, while the Congress has opted for 27-year-old Priyanka Jarkiholi.

Interestingly, the Congress is experimenting with the candidate hailing from the ST community against the contestant from the general category here.

The anti-Hindutva statements by PWD Minister, Satish Jarkiholi, who is also Priyanka's father, are likely to become a major issue in the constituency and prove to be a setback for the Congress.

Jarkiholi had claimed that the word 'Hindu' has Persian roots and has a vulgar meaning.

He questioned how people could accept the word when it has no connection with India. However, after a major backlash he had to withdraw his statement.

Chikkodi Lok Sabha seat with 17 lakh voters is dominated by SC, ST and OBC groups. Lingayat and Maratha voters also have a significant presence here. The constituency was reserved for the SC category from 1967 to 2009.

The developments in the constituency are being closely watched due to the Congress party's unusual move of allotting the ticket to a ST candidate in a general category seat.

BJP candidate Annasaheb Jolle's wife and former minister, Shashikala has won the Assembly election from the Nippani segment.

On the other hand Priyanka's father is a close associate of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and won from the Yemkanmardi Assembly seat.

Priyanka is an MBA and is involved in social activities through the Jarkiholi Foundation. She had also campaigned for her father in the Assembly elections.

On the other hand Annasaheb Jolle is not a graduate and has only studied till high school.

Winning the Chikkodi seat has become a matter of prestige as both candidates hail from powerful families of the Belagavi District and a close fight is expected.

Annasaheb Jolle's supporters are confident that the work done during the tenure of his wife who was a minister in the previous BJP government, will fetch votes.

On top of it, the Lingayat vote bank and the wave in favour of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, will ensure their victory.

The Chikkodi Lok Sabha seat comprises Nippani, Chikkodi-Sadalga, Athani, Kagwad, Kudachi, Raybag, Hukkeri and Yemkanmardi Assembly segments.

Among these, the Congress has five Assembly seats and the BJP three. Five segments are represented by general category candidates and three are reserved segments.

The Congress won the Chikkodi Lok Sabha seat continuously till 1991 from 1962. The grand old party had made a comeback in 2014 with senior Congress leader Prakash Hukkeri emerging victorious.

Though the party wanted to field Hukkeri or his son MLA Ganesh Hukkeri, both rejected the proposal.

The Janata Dal won the seat in 1996 and 1999 and the Lok Shakti party won it in 1998. BJP wrestled the seat in 2004 and won the seat in the 2009 and 2019 general elections.

Annasaheb Jolle had registered a thumping victory with a margin of 3.18 lakh votes in the 2019 general election against Congress candidate Prakash Hukkeri, who polled 4.26 lakh votes.

Satish Jarkiholi has confidently claimed that there is no doubt that Priyanka will emerge victorious. He said that Priyanka had sacrificed her career and was contesting in the Lok Sabha elections to serve the people, while she could have settled down in a foreign country with a good job.

Ashok Chandaragi, social worker and activist, told IANS, "This is the second experiment by the Congress in Belagavi District. Earlier, Priyanka Jarkiholi's uncle Ramesh Jarkiholi represented the Gokak Constituency, which is a general seat, for the Congress. (Ramesh Jarkiholi is with the BJP at present). The Jarkiholi family is most powerful in Belagavi District. There is an equal fight in the constituency."
New Delhi, March 27 : While headache seems to be a common problem, it can also result in disability and even death, if not promptly recognised and treated on time, said Sudhir Kumar, a Hyderabad-based neurologist.

The doctor, from Apollo Hospital in Hyderabad, in a post on X.com, said that headaches are usually not serious, and commonly are migraine and tension-type headaches.

These present no serious complications and are easily and often effectively treatable.

"However, not all causes of headache are benign. Some of the conditions that cause headaches are serious and may result in disability and even death if not promptly recognised and treated on time," said Sudhir.

The doctor noted that the most severe headache is due to "subarachnoid haemorrhage", which causes life-threatening bleeding in the brain.

This severe headache recently affected motivational speaker Jaggi Vasudev, who suffered from it for several weeks. He, later, underwent emergency surgery to relieve the bleeding in the skull.

"Headache that often wakes up a person from sleep, or is worse in mornings on waking up, or that results in vomiting, double vision, etc, could be suggestive of brain tumour," said Sudhir. He added that headaches coming along with weakness of the arm or leg could indicate a risk of "stroke".

Further, the expert said that headache linked with fever, and reduced alertness "could be meningitis (brain fever)", and that which comes along with fever and seizures (fits) is "suggestive of encephalitis (brain fever)".

"New-onset headache in a person aged above 50; headache lasting for more than 72 hours; a headache that is not responding to pain-relief medications," could also be "red flags", requiring attention, Sudhir said.

Recent changes in headache frequency, severity, or character may also be a risk factor that warrants further investigation.

"If you notice any of the above "red flags" associated with headaches, it is better to consult a neurologist and undergo a brain scan (CT or MRI) and/or other investigations to determine the underlying cause, so that the appropriate treatment can be started," Sudhir said.

"Early recognition and prompt initiation of appropriate treatment can be life-saving in these conditions," he added.
Raveena Tandon says she is best friends with her children. Image Source: IANS News

Mumbai, March 27 : Actress Raveena Tandon shared that she is best friends with her children and that it helped her build a relationship with her on-screen son in the show 'Patna Shuklla'.

Raveena Tandon who plays the character of Tanvi Shukla, said: "There is an instance in the film where Tanvi's son forgets his lunchbox, she chases the school bus to deliver it midway. I think that is one scene every mother will relate to."

"Every house has chaotic mornings but a mother will cut through the chaos and come through for her children and that is something even I have personally done when my children were going to school."

She then went on to share details about the relationship she shares with her daughter Risha and son Ranbir.

"I'm best friends with my kids and the same dynamics we've portrayed on screen with Tanvi's son. Bringing that chemistry on screen with Patna Shukla brought back some lovely memories for me with my children. I'm sure the audience will feel the warmth and pure friendship that Tanvi and her son share."

'Patna Shuklla' is based on a fearless lawyer who takes matters into her own hands when she sees a student entangled in an education scam, and soon realises that she is pitted against a Chief Minister candidate.

'Patna Shuklla' will be streaming on Disney+ Hotstar from March 29.
Chennai, March 27 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) were carrying out raids in ten locations in Tamil Nadu, including the state capital in connection with the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case.

The searches were taking place in six locations in Chennai and four in southern Tamil Nadu.

The NIA has identified the main accused in the blast, a native of Shimoga in Karnataka, said sources. There were intelligence inputs from the central agencies about the main accused having stayed in multiple locations in Tamil Nadu along with his aide.

Both the accused were involved in an explosion in 2020 in Karnataka and are in the wanted list of NIA.

The premier investigation agency has announced rewards for those who give any tips on the whereabouts of the duo.

The NIA, according to sources, commenced the investigation into Tamil Nadu after it found that a cap that was left in a mosque by the main accused was purchased from Tamil Nadu.

The NIA team is also probing those who have provided logistics support to the accused while they were staying in Tamil Nadu.

More details are awaited.
Kanpur : , March 27 (IANS) The IIT Kanpur is inviting applications for new batches of its eMasters Degree programs in Climate Finance, Business Finance, Fintech, and Quantitative Finance.

These programs are designed to create future-ready finance professionals and cater to the growing demand for skilled talent in the finance industry. The flexibility of completing the eMasters degree programs within 1-3 years, makes it a unique and preferred choice for working professionals. Moreover, selection into these programs does not require GATE score.

According to an official release, the eMasters in Financial Technology and Management blends fintech with traditional finance, giving professionals a deep understanding of technology's impact on finance.

The eMasters in Quantitative Finance and Risk Management focuses on improving risk management skills through research and practical training.

The eMasters in Business Finance helps professionals advance in finance and economics, equipping them to make strategic decisions.

The eMasters in Climate Finance and Sustainability meets the rising demand for expertise in carbon management and ESG, offering specialised training in finance and environmental sustainability.

The offered eMasters programs equip professionals with the modern skills needed to excel in these industries.

These programs are offered by the Department of Management Sciences and Department of Economic Sciences of IIT Kanpur, providing a high-impact learning experience featuring live interactive weekend classes and self-paced learning.

As faculty and accomplished researchers from IIT Kanpur lead the way, the program's 60-credit curriculum, tailored for the industry, allows for seamless credit transfers towards higher education opportunities like MTech and PhD programs at IIT Kanpur, with the potential for waiving up to 60 credits.
Jaipur, March 27 : BJP candidate from Nagaur in Rajasthan, Jyoti Mirdha has total assets worth Rs 126 crore, but does not own a car.

Mirdha has two licensed weapons, one gun and a pistol. She has properties in Jaipur, Gurugram, Mumbai and Nagaur, which include plots, flats and agricultural farms.

The details were disclosed in the affidavit submitted by her while filing her nomination papers.

She has Rs 1.70 lakh in cash, while her husband has cash worth Rs 1.40 lakh. Jyoti Mirdha's movable assets are less than her husband's. She has movable assets worth Rs 4.23 crore, while her husband has movable assets worth Rs 31.84 crore.

However, the Nagaur candidate from BJP is ahead of her husband in real estate. She has property worth Rs 54.86 crore, while her husband has immovable property worth Rs 35.50 crore. Jyoti Mirdha has taken a loan of Rs 19.84 crore from her husband Narendra Gehlaut, who has a debt of Rs 16.59 crore.

A total of 57.95 lakh is deposited in her three accounts and an amount of Rs 36 lakh, including FD of Rs 6.82 lakh, is deposited in her husband's name. Mirdha has invested Rs 1.98 crore in sovereign gold bonds and Rs 5.98 lakh in shares. Her husband has invested Rs 4 crore in sovereign gold bonds and Rs 5.60 lakh in shares. Mirdha has 2.756 kg of gold jewellery, whose current value is Rs 1.61 crore.

She has 50 per cent share in 10 Bigha land in Jodhpur, half share in seven Bigha, three Bigha land in Sirsi, Jaipur, two acres of land in Raisina village of Gurugram (Haryana), two plots in Kanak Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh), two flats in Mumbai, a plot in Gurugram and four plots in Nagaur (Rajasthan).

Jyoti Mirdha joined the BJP in 2023 and was fielded as a candidate in the Assembly elections by the BJP. However, she lost the polls. Now she is contesting from Nagaur Lok Sabha seat as BJP candidate and faces Hanuman Beniwal, who is INDIA bloc candidate. Interestingly, Beniwal contested the 2019 Lok Sabha polls from Nagaur as RLP candidate which had an alliance with BJP.
New Delhi, March 27 : India on Wednesday summoned the US Acting Deputy Chief of Mission and took strong objection to his remarks on the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, asking the country for "a fair, transparent, and timely legal process" for the jailed leader.

The meeting, which lasted 45 minutes, came after a US State Department spokesperson said that they "encourage a fair, transparent, and timely legal process for Chief Minister Kejriwal".

"We take strong objection to the remarks of the Spokesperson of the US State Department about certain legal proceedings in India," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

"In diplomacy, states are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. This responsibility is even more so in the case of fellow democracies. It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents," the MEA added.

Further, it said that India's legal processes are based on an independent judiciary that is committed to objective and timely outcomes.

"Casting aspersions on that is unwarranted," the MEA said.

Earlier, India summoned a senior diplomat from the German Embassy and lodged a strong protest over comments on the Aam Aadmi Party leader, which it called "blatant interference" in the country's internal matters.
Chandigarh, March 27 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted searches at multiple locations in at least Punjab's eight districts in connection with a money-laundering case linked to an alleged guava orchards compensation scam of Rs 137 crore, officials said.

Chandigarh, March 27 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted searches at multiple locations in at least Punjabas eight districts in connection with a money-laundering case linked to an alleged guava orchards compensation scam of Rs 137 crore, officials said.

Taking cognisance of a Punjab Vigilance Bureau case pertaining to alleged embezzlement of nearly Rs 137 crore released as compensation for guava orchards on land acquired by the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA), the ED had registered the case.

Search operations were conducted in the residence of stateas Excise and Taxation Commissioner, Varun Roojam, in Chandigarh, besides the residence of Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Dhiman and his chartered accountant Anil Arora in Patiala.

Raid was also carried out at the residence of Bhupinder Singh, the main accused in the scam, in Mohali district.

The Vigilance Bureau had arrested a number of people, including horticulture department officials, in this case.

The vigilance had registered an FIR in the case on May 3 last year. A total of nearly 30 people have been arrested.

The ED has sought records of compensation and the details of bank accounts of farmers related to the illegal compensation scam involving planting of guava trees in Mohali district, the epicenter of the scam.

In a letter to the chief administrator of Mohali, the ED had stated that as per an FIR registered by the Vigilance Bureau, it has been found that in 2016 GMADA started the process of acquiring land of various villages in Mohali.

The government had issued various notices on December 5, 2017, under section 4, on October 17, 2019 under section 11, and on January 8, 2021, under section 19 of the Land Acquisition Act.

The fraud, zeroed in the Barakpur village, involved collusion among officials from the Horticulture and Revenue departments, besides GMADA and private individuals.

In 2016-17, the government officials, who had knowledge about the land acquisitions, allegedly purchased the land and planted guava trees to get bigger compensation. They manipulated records, claiming the trees were planted in 2016. In reality, the saplings were planted in 2018.
North Dakota legislators are considering their options for replacing two state-owned aircraft. The planes are used to reduce travel time for state officials, often enabling them time to attend multiple meetings in a day.

The two planes that might be replaced are Beechcraft King Air B200 models that are twin-turbo prop aircraft with a combined retail value of $4 million. The planes were manufactured in 1998.

The reasons for replacing the planes include improved safety features, the ability to land and take off at all 45 state airports, and enhanced electrical systems. The current Beechcraft King Airs can land at all 45 airports, but for various reasons can take off from only 27.

As planes age, just like other motor vehicles, they require more maintenance and repairs. A propellor on one King Air failed inspection and a propellor on the other plane narrowly passed. Both propellors are recommended for replacement. The interior doors are warping and are being repaired.

Fortunately, the planes havent encountered any emergencies while in service. But they have had to undergo repairs after nonemergency problems occurred during flights.

Members of the legislative Government Finance Committee recently toured the Beechcraft planes. Robin Rehborg, deputy director of driver safety for the state Department of Transportation, stressed safety during the tour.

The DOT hired a consultant group, ARGUS International Inc., in Ohio to evaluate the Beechcraft and a third state-owned plane. The state has quite the fleet when you consider the planes in the University of North Dakotas aviation program and planes at other state agencies.

Over the years governors have been questioned about their use of state planes. Overall, having the planes has been useful for state officials. During the oil boom there has been extensive travel from Bismarck to western North Dakota.

New planes dont come cheap. Jet-engine planes can range from $9.4 million to $29.8 million. The new King Air planes range from $6.5 million to $7.9 million. Operational costs for the new planes also are higher.

While the planes are expensive, the state is well-positioned budgetwise to upgrade its fleet. The state shouldnt downplay the importance of improved safety features. Legislators should examine how well planes in different agencies are being used. Are they being shared?

If used in the right way planes can make government more efficient. At the moment the question seems to be: Why shouldnt we upgrade the two planes?
Seoul :This photo taken on Oct. 26, 2022, shows the headquarters of SK hynix Inc. in Icheon.(Yonhap/IANS). Image Source: IANS News

Seoul, March 27 : SK hynix, the world's second-largest memory chipmaker, said on Wednesday that it expects a significant increase in the portion of its high bandwidth memory (HBM) chip sales relative to total DRAM (dynamic random-access memory) chip sales.

"Last year, sales of HBM chips accounted for a single-digit percent of the company's entire DRAM sales," CEO Kwak Noh-jung said during a general shareholders meeting. "This year, the number of bits of HBM sales will rise to a double-digit percentage of total DRAM sales, which will help our profitability."

HBM chips, integral components used for AI computing, have garnered increasing attention with the rise of applications such as generative AI, exemplified by models like ChatGPT, reports Yonhap news agency.

SK hynix is considered a leader in the HBM industry as it has begun mass production of the latest fifth-generation HBM3E chips.

These chips are slated for supply to U.S. AI chip giant Nvidia, solidifying SK hynix's role as a key supplier in the AI computing ecosystem.

Kwak stressed that his company will make constant efforts to keep the market leadership by strengthening competitiveness of its HBM products.

Regarding recent media reports suggesting SK hynix's plans to build an advanced chip packaging facility in Indiana, Kwak clarified that nothing has been confirmed yet, indicating that the company is still in the process of evaluating its options.
Siemens to use Google Cloud to improve shop floor productivity. Image Source: IANS News

Seoul, March 27 : NCSOFT Corporation, a major South Korean online and mobile game developer, said on Wednesday that it has joined hands with Google Cloud in improving artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing capabilities.

In a meeting at the Google headquarters in the United States, the two companies discussed ways to apply AI and cloud technologies in game development and develop a platform to create a gaming ecosystem, reports Yonhap news agency.

NCSOFT said it also plans to upgrade its generative AI language model, VARCO, by utilising Google Cloud's Vertex AI, a machine learning platform that offers access to Google's next-generation LLM Gemini.

"To create a fresh gaming experience for our global users, we will collaborate with Google Cloud to form an ecosystem," NCSOFT CEO Kim Taek-jin said.
Kolkata, March 27 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday issued a notice to Mathew Samuel, the man behind the 2016 Narada sting operation, asking him to be present at its office here next month.

The CBI sleuths issued the notice under Section 160 of the Code for Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

In the notice sent by CBIas deputy Superintendent Risinamol K.C., Samuel has been asked to be present at the agencyas Nizam Palace office by 11 a.m. on April 4.

The CBI has become active again in the case in which several top leaders of Trinamool Congress and one police officer were seen accepting cash.

The agency had summoned Samuel for interrogation to Kolkata in September last year. However, at that point of time Samuel had set three conditions for joining the probe in Kolkata.

The first condition was that his up and down flight travel costs will have to be reimbursed by the central agency. The second condition was that the central agency will also have to arrange and bear the cost of his stay in Kolkata during the period. The final condition was that accommodation in Kolkata should be near the CBI office in Kolkata.

The Narada videos surfaced just before the 2016 West Bengal Assembly polls. It created a major political stir in the state and at one point of time Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had said that had she been aware she would have denied tickets to those who appeared in the sting videos.
New Delhi: BJP MP Dilip Ghosh at the Parliament, on the second part of Budget Session, in New Delhi on Thursday, March 24, 2022. (Photo: Qamar Sibtain/IANS). Image Source: IANS News

Kolkata, March 27 : A Trinamool Congress delegation on Wednesday met the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) and complained that the BJP's National Vice President and party candidate from Bardhaman-Durgapur constituency Dilip Ghosh is a habitual offender against women.

On Tuesday, Trinamool accused Ghosh of using derogatory remarks against the family lineage of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The delegation representative and West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu said that they strongly condemn the manner in which Dilip Ghosh abused women.

"This is not the first time that Ghosh has attacked the Chief Minister in such an un-parliamentary manner. He has tried to malign the Chief Minister relentlessly for flourishing the women-power in West Bengal," Basu said.

Another delegation representative and the West Bengal Minister of State-in-Charge of the Finance Department (independent charge) Chandrima Bhattacharya said that they have informed the office of the CEO about the details of the abuses by Dilip Ghosh and also requested the office to initiate action against him for violation of the model code of conduct.

Meanwhile, Ghosh said that he would give his explanations to the Election Commission of India directly.

"Trinamool Congress plays this 'women card' before every election. But now the common people have understood this trick. I have every right to question the Chief Minister. Do not the people of Sandeshkhali know who actually anti-women are?" Ghosh questioned.

BJP central leadership has also issued a show-cause notice to Ghosh for his derogatory comments and has also asked him to tender an apology.
New Delhi: TMC MP Mahua Moitra on the first day of the Winter session of Parliament. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, March 27 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a third summons to Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra for questioning in connection with a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) violation case, a source said on Wednesday.

Moitra, who was expelled from Lok Sabha last year in December, has been asked to appear before the ED on Thursday at the ED Headquarters in Delhi, according to sources.

The summons comes after she failed to comply with two earlier summons, missing scheduled appearances on March 11 and February 19.

ED sources said that Moitra has been asked to furnish certain documents pertinent to foreign investments linked to the ongoing investigation.

Moitra had been embroiled in a controversy over allegations of receiving cash in exchange for putting up queries in the Parliament on behalf of businessman Darshan Hiranandani.
New Delhi, Match 27 : Army Commanders' Conference will start on March 28 in Delhi. The hybrid-mode conference will be held virtually on March 28 and thereafter will be conducted physically in New Delhi on April 1st and 2nd.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also address and interact with senior military leadership during the conference.

On March 28, the conference will be chaired by the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Manoj Pande at New Delhi with Army Commanders participating in virtual mode from their respective Command Headquarters.

On April 1, the Army's top leadership will engage in intensive brainstorming sessions. The sessions will be aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness, the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability and investing in training and development programmes to ensure readiness for future challenges.

This will be followed by a meeting of the Investment Advisory Committee of the Army Group Insurance, chaired by the COAS, and attended by several experts in the field of financial management.

On April 2, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will deliver a keynote address. The senior hierarchy of the Army will also be addressed by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral R Hari Kumar and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari.

The event will also be attended by the Defence Secretary and other senior officials from the Ministry of Defence.

The Army Commanders' Conference, with its wide scope, ensures the Indian Army remains progressive, forward-looking, adaptive and future-ready.
New Delhi, March 27 : US Ambassador Eric Garcetti said on Wednesday that the US-India aviation partnership is about creating jobs and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific as he met Minister for Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya Scindia, and had a 'fruitful discussion' with him.

Minister Scindia and Ambassador Garcetti discussed the seventh US-India Aviation Summit, scheduled to be held in Washington, from June 24-26 this year.

"Had a fruitful discussion with Union Minister for Civil Aviation @JM_Scindia regarding the upcoming US-India Aviation Summit in Washington. The #USIndia aviation partnership isn't just about flights; it's about creating jobs and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific," Ambassador Garcetti said in a post on X on Wednesday.

After the meeting, which was held on Tuesday, Scindia said that he had a "productive discussion" with the envoy on a "variety of Indo-US matters, including areas of collaboration in the aviation and steel sectors".

The US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is holding this Summit under the US-India Aviation Cooperation Program, a public-private partnership comprising American aviation firms active in India's aviation market.

The upcoming event will foster dialogue between Indian civil aviation authorities and industry and their US counterparts in both public and private sectors.

It will also serve as a showcase for advanced US technology, equipment, services, and best practices tailored to meet India's expansion requirements, the USTDA said.

In March 2023, India announced plans to invest $12 billion over two years to construct new airports and update existing ones as part of an effort to improve regional connectivity.

"In the last 10 years, India's civil aviation industry has experienced expansive growth, bolstered by the integration of low-cost carriers into the nation's airline fleet, the construction of new airports, and the focus on increasing regional connectivity among the Indian states," the USTDA added.

From January-October 2023, the Indian market witnessed nearly 1.3 billion passengers, an increase of 24 per cent over the same period in 2022.

According to projections by the US aircraft manufacturer, Boeing, India's aviation market will grow 6.9 per cent annually until 2040, outpacing other high-growth regions, including Southeast Asia, China and Africa.

An analysis conducted by European aircraft manufacturer Airbus said that to meet growing passenger air traffic demand, India might need nearly 2,210 new aircraft and around 430 million additional passenger flights over the next 20 years.

The sixth US-India Aviation Summit was held in Mumbai in May 2018 and was formally inaugurated by Suresh Prabhu, the then Minister for Civil Aviation.
Mumbai, March 27 : Veteran Congress leader and ex-MP Sanjay Nirupam on Wednesday whiplashed his own party leadership, alleging an abject 'surrender' to the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) ally, Shiv Sena (UBT), headed by former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

Nirupam (59) launched a broadside at the Congress and SS (UBT) after the latter announced its list of 16 Lok Sabha candidates, including the Mumbai North West seat which he (Nirupam) had coveted.

The SS (UBT) has fielded Amol G. Kirtikar -- an accused in the infamous 'khichdi scam' of the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation and the son of rival Shiv Sena MP Gajanan Kirtikar -- as its candidate for Mumbai North West, taking the MVA allies Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (SP) by surprise.

"I will not support such a 'khichdi chor' (thief) candidate He has been unilaterally thrust upon Congress by the SS (UBT). We hope the (Congress) -- which adopts a 'high moral ground' vis-a-vis corruption -- lodges its strong protest with Thackeray for the tainted nominee (Amol Kirtikar)," Nirupam said.

Launching a veiled attack at Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, state Congress chief Nana Patole, and the party's Mumbai head Varsha Gaikwad  without taking names  Nirupam said the party has abandoned its lakhs of activists all over the city, state and the country.

"The leadership does seem to be bothered about its workers The Congress talks of 'Nyay' (justice) to various sections of society, but injustice is being meted out to its own workers. Enough is enoughno more. Now it will be a decisive move for me," Nirupam said.

Turning to the SS (UBT), the former three-term MP said that by announcing Amol Kirtikar's name for Mumbai North West, Thackeray has thrown a challenge at the Congress, which failed to carry out tough negotiations in the seat-charing talks.

"The SS (UBT) is not as powerful as perceived... It cannot win a single seat in Maharashtra without Congress' support. Yet, it has pressurised us and that is highly condemnable. But the Congress did not retaliate though seats were snatched away by SS (UBT). Our leadership even failed to save Mumbai, Sangli, and other seats," said Nirupam.

He alleged that the move by Thackeray indicates 'a hidden agenda' to finish off the Congress in the state and bury it in Mumbai  both places where it held sway for decades in the past.

"We have shown enough patience, but not anymore. I was waiting to be called for Mumbai North West which I was keen to fight. All options are open for me. I will announce my next move in the coming week or so," said Nirupam, signaling a banner of revolt.

Amid the attack by Nirupam, other senior party leaders, including Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader Balasaheb Thorat, expressed strong disapproval at the SS (UBT) for announcing candidates for Mumbai and Sangli seats where discussions are still going on.

"The SS (UBT) must adhere to the principles of coalition sincerely There's time even now. We hope they will reconsider their decision," urged Thorat, as the matter reverberated to the central party leadership in Delhi.

Similarly, the NCP (SP) has also expressed its strong displeasure at the 16-candidate first list announced by the SS (UBT), even before the seat-sharing talks are completed amicably.

(Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: q.najmi@ians.in)
Kochi, March 27 : The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday initiated an investigation into a money laundering case involving Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena Vijayan's IT firm and the Cochin-based mining firm CMRL.

Kochi, March 27 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday initiated an investigation into a money laundering case involving Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena Vijayanas IT firm and the Cochin-based mining firm CMRL.

The case is already being probed by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO).

The Kochi office of the ED has filed an ECIR in the case. The ECIR is similar to the FIR lodged by the police for cognizable offences.

This issue was first raised last year by Congress MLA Mathew Kuzhalnadan on the basis of a media report, which quoted an Income Tax Department officer as saying that "CM Vijayanas daughter Veena Vijayanas IT firm Exalogic had received Rs 1.72 crore from the mining company CMRL, in which the KSIDC has around 13 per cent stake".

Initially, CM Vijayan and the CPI(M) defended the case both inside and outside the Assembly. They said that this was nothing but a political witch hunt. But the defence fell apart when the SFIO took up the probe last month.

The SFIO has completed one round of probe by visiting the offices of CMRL and KSIDC and has taken statements from officials of both these firms.

When the SFIO began its probe, the KSIDC approached the Kerala High Court seeking a stay, which was disallowed. Veena, whose IT firm was based in Bengaluru and now not in operation, approached the Karnataka High Court seeking a stay, but was also disallowed.
Bengaluru, March 27 : The infighting within the Congress erupted on Wednesday, with a minister, three MLAs, and two MLCs, including the Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, threatening to submit their resignations to the Chairman of the Council over the allotment of ticket to Kolar seat.

The leaders claimed they were forced to act against the party's decision to allot the Kolar seat ticket to K.G. Chikkapeddanna, son-in-law of Minister for Food K.H. Muniyappa.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar rushed back to Bengaluru and convened a meeting in which they clarified that the ticket was not finalised yet.

Minister for Higher Education, M.C. Sudhakar, MLAs G. Manjunath and K.Y. Nanje Gowda, MLC and Political Secretary to the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Naseer Ahmad, and MLC Anil Kumar said that they would tender their resignations if the ticket was allotted to Chikkapeddanna.

The rebels reached the office of Basavaraj Horatti, the Chairman of the Legislative Council. MLCs Naseer Ahmad and Anil Kumar also showed their resignation letters to the media.

Minister for Urban Development and Town Planning Byrathi Suresh also rushed to Chairman Horatti's chamber and conveyed to them that the candidate for the Kolar seat had not been finalised.

The rebel leaders returned without submitting resignation letters afterwards.

MLC Naseer Ahmad said that submitting resignation is our fundamental right.

"The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister have asked us to wait until they arrive in Bengaluru and convene a meeting. It is our duty to respect their words. Our demand is that the ticket for the Kolar seat should be given to a winning candidate. We are not resorting to blackmail," he said.

"I got the ticket allotted to Minister Muniyappa when I was the minister in 1991. He used to come to me holding a shabby bag," MLC Naseer Ahmad said.

Minister Sudhakar said: "The message was conveyed while we were with Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti. After meeting the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, we will make a decision."

Congress MLC Anil Kumar said that the party has made Muniyappa a Minister; his daughter is also an MLA and Chairman of a board.

"The ticket is being given to his son-in-law. We want the ticket to be given to a candidate who hails from a community with a larger population," he said.

MLA K.Y. Nanje Gowda said that all those opposing the ticket to the son-in-law of Muniyappa are united. It has been conveyed that the candidate will be selected in the presence of all the leaders. "We will respect the decision," he said.

Minister Bhyrathi Suresh stated that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has indicated that the candidate for Kolar has not been finalised.

Reacting to the development, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that there is a difference of opinion on the Kolar seat. The candidate has not been announced. The leaders are fearful. There is a demand to issue the ticket to the right faction of the Scheduled Caste category.

"I have spoken to them and asked them to remain calm," he said.

Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar said that he became aware of the development. Discipline is important in the party. "I will discuss the matter with the CM," he said.
   

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New Delhi, March 27 : Proceedings were abruptly adjourned in Delhi Assembly till Monday following uproar from Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislators over the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by ED in the excise policy case.

Sources said that the Assembly session will prioritise Chief Minister Kejriwal's second directive, issued from EDas custody, which calls for the provision of free medication and diagnostic tests at government-operated Mohalla clinics.

Prior to the assembly's session, AAP MLAs had gathered outside the premises, chanting slogans demanding Kejriwal's immediate release.

Wearing yellow T-shirts with aMei bhi Kejriwal" written on the backside, the AAP MLAs, including Ministers Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj, raised slogans against the arrest of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the excise policy scam.

"Our MLAs are united in their protest against the unjust detention of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. There's a concerning trend to undermine democracy in our nation, evident in the targeting and incarceration of opposition figures," said Minister Atishi.

Even as the AAP MLAs were protesting, BJP MLAs also raised slogans outside Delhi Vidhan Sabha demanding Chief Ministeras resignation.

Shortly after receiving instructions from Chief Minister Kejriwal to address the medicine shortage, Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj announced that a session of the Delhi Assembly would convene on Wednesday.
Thiruvananthapuram, Mar 27 : The leader of opposition in the Kerala Assembly, V. D. Satheesan, wrote to Sanjay Kaul, Chief Electoral Officer, on Wednesday, urging him to ensure transparency in the 'vote from home' facility for voters above the age of 85.

Satheesan pointed out that during the 2021 Assembly polls, many complaints were received about the lack of transparency in this facility.

"There were occasions when the polling agents of the Congress-led UDF were kept in the dark about voters aged above 85 voting from their homes. We also want to point out that the age of the voter should be ascertained based on his/her Aadhaar card, and not the voter ID card," Satheesan said.

"We also want the ballots to be deposited in ballot boxes, and not in paper covers like last time," Satheesan added.

There are 2,49,960 voters above the age of 85 in Kerala, where polling will be held in the second phase on April 26.
Chennai, March 27 : Senior DMK leader and sitting MP, Dayanidhi Maran, filed his nomination papers for the Chennai Central Lok Sabha seat on Wednesday.

Dayanidhi Maran filed his nomination papers before the Regional Deputy Commissioner, Greater Chennai Corporation, KJ Praveen Kumar.

The former Union Minister of Communications and Information Technology lashed out against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while speaking to media persons after filing his nomination papers.

Dayanidhi Maran said that the Union government of PM Modi had failed to ensure the economic development of the nation.

He said that be it COVID-19 or the recent floods, the DMK has stood at the forefront of all issues to assist the people of Tamil Nadu.

When he went for filing his nomination papers, the DMK leader was accompanied by TN Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Minister, Sekar Babu, DMK MLA, MK Mohan and DMK leader in the Council, N Ramalingam.

Sekar Babu said there was no competition to the INDIA bloc in Tamil Nadu and added that Dayanidhi Maran was an active MP and had properly utilised funds under the MP Local Area Development Scheme to improve facilities in his constituency.
ED asks CPI-M's Pathanamthitta LS candidate Isaac to appear before it on Monday. Image Source: IANS News

Thiruvananthapuram, March 27 : CPI-M's Pathanamthitta Lok Sabha seat candidate and former Kerala Finance Minister Thomas Isaac was on Wednesday served the sixth notice by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), asking him to appear before them on Monday in connection with masala bonds issue case.

Isaac, who is busy with his campaign, accused the ED of "unleashing threats".

"The ED should not forget that this is Kerala and not north India. The ED is not going to cut my nose if I donat appear. Anyway, I am approaching the Kerala High Court on Monday," he said.

However, despite his best efforts to get a stay, he is yet to get any relief from the Kerala High Court, which orally pointed out last month that "itas only a summons".

A total of Rs 2,150 crore was raised through the masala bonds by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) in 2019 when Isaac was the Finance Minister in the first Pinarayi Vijayan government (2016-21).

A former professor of economics and a four-time legislator, Isaac did not figure in the CPI-M list for the 2021 Assembly elections. For nearly three years, he was more into academics than politics, before his name was cleared to contest the Pathanamthitta Lok Sabha seat, which, since its inception in 2009, has been held by the Congress' Anto Antony.

Isaac is pitted against Anto Antony and BJP's Anil Antony, son of veteran Congress leader and former Defence Minister and Kerala Chief Minister A.K. Antony.
Imphal/Aizawl, March 27 : A multi-tier security arrangement has been put in place along the 5437-km long international borders with eight northeastern states to foil any cross-border illegal activities before and during the Lok Sabha elections.

Top Army, BSF and Assam Rifles officials are frequently visiting the bordering areas and sensitising their troops deployed along the international fenced and unfenced bordering areas.

Election and security officials separately said that massive security measures are being taken along the 1,643-km long border with Myanmar, the 1,880-km long border with Bangladesh, the over 1,300-km border with China, the 516-km border with Bhutan, and the 98-km border with Nepal.

The Army, Assam Rifles and the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) troops are guarding the northeastern states' borders with China and Myanmar while the Border Security Force (BSF) personnel are guarding the India-Bangladesh borders with four northeastern states  Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura.

"Our troops are patrolling round-the-clock and stepped up their vigil in view of the Lok Sabha elections to foil any cross-border illegal activities, infiltration, and misadventure during the run-up to the polling," a senior BSF official told IANS refusing to be named.

He said that additional Director General, BSF (Eastern Command), Kolkata, Ravi Gandhi accompanied by other senior officials visited the India-Bangladesh bordering areas last week and earlier this week and held a series of meetings with all concerned and interacted with the jawans posted along the frontiers.

The official said that following the directions from the Election Commission and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), all-out measures have been taken to further tighten the security along the borders.

The state security forces in coordination with the Central forces are active in the bordering villages and areas to ensure security in the run-up to the elections.

Meanwhile, a large contingent of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) reached different northeastern states last month and they, along with the state security forces, are now regularly patrolling the sensitive, vulnerable, mixed-population, and border areas as part of their "confidence-building measures".

Elections to the 25 Lok Sabha seats across eight northeastern states will be held in the first three phases of the seven-phase parliamentary elections, with 15 seats, including one partly, going to the polls in the first phase, seven (one partly) in the second phase, and four in the third phase.

Of the 15 Lok Sabha seats going to the polls on April 19 (first phase), five are in Assam and there are two seats each in Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur (one partly) and one each in Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim.

In the second phase on April 26, voting will be held in another five seats in Assam, the other seat in Tripura, and in the remaining part of Outer Manipur.

Polling will be held in the remaining four seats in Assam in the third phase on May 7.

Elections to the 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Assembly and 32-member Sikkim Assembly would also be held on April 19.

The counting of votes for the Sikkim and Arunachal Assembly polls would be done on June 2 and for the Lok Sabha elections on June 4.
New Delhi, March 27 : During the pandemic, filmmaker Sumant Bhat got the news of a distant relative's death and on the thirteenth day, the deceased man's wife killed herself, leaving behind two sons, one 11-year-old and the other only three.

Bhat attended the funeral ceremony of the wife. The older child was quite serious, but the younger one was laughing and running around, oblivious to the fact of what had happened.

That image never left the director, and thus were sown the seeds of his Kannada film 'Mithya'.

The movie centres around Mithun, an eleven-year-old, coming to terms with the sudden loss of his parents. Things turn gloomier as their families squabble over his custody, even as questions over the nature of his father's death remain unanswered.

The filmmaker dwells on questions like - can a new house be home, can friendships be forged again or is it all just a search for something long gone?

"I am also a parent to two children and wanted to look at how they grieve," he told IANS.

Stressing that it would be unfair to call 'Mithya' a children's film, adding that he has had this problem of labelling some movies as 'children's films' especially in India, as we mostly underestimate the emotional maturity of children and their capacity to grasp complexity.

Bhat adds: "We dumb down films for them and they are mostly about talking animals or a magic land. I did not make this movie keeping in mind any specific age group, just the fact that things need to be explored from a child's perspective. At MAMI in Mumbai, children were not allowed and the audience members were adults. During the Q&A session, I realised that they connected with the film through their parent's loss or of their siblings."

All set for its festival journey, including to the US, Russia and Europe, funding for the film was not a problem for Bhat as his friend, a major Kannada star financed not only his film but also the ventures of other independent filmmakers.

The filmmaker feels that major artists who have reached the top of the industry should also do their bit for independent films. "Even if they finance just one film of their choice, it would make a huge difference. Or they can promote it by speaking about a small film to the media."

Bhat, whose film will be screened during the debut edition of CineVesture International Film Festival (CIFF) in Chandigarh is looking forward to the interaction with audiences.

"That is always the best part about festivals -- one gets to know how the audience has conceived the movie. Sometimes their interpretations surprise directors too considering they connect to the film in ways you don't anticipate."

Dismissing the fact that OTT has helped independent filmmakers, he says it was a very small bubble that busted completely after the pandemic. It does not take much to observe that most digital platforms are now following an algorithm and prefer crime thrillers, leaving no space for something genuinely 'different'.

"They have completely shut down doors on indie filmmakers and are working like studios where they prefer bug productions boasting of top stars. Frankly, I started making short films only when OTTs came about, thinking now there was an outlet," laments Bhat.

Though he has written some web series, he does not expect them to see the light of the day. "But I am also in the process of writing my next film," he concludes.
Kuala Lumpur, March 27 : External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Wednesday met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and said that his vision would help craft a "more ambitious agenda" for the India-Malaysia relationship.

Jaishankar, who arrived in Malaysia after concluding his Singapore and the Philippines visit, also conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Malaysian leader.

"Honour to call on Prime Minister @anwaribrahim of Malaysia. Conveyed the warm greetings of PM @narendramodi," the Jaishankar said in a post on X.

"His vision for stronger India-Malaysia ties, both in traditional and new-age areas, will help us craft a more ambitious agenda for the relationship," the EAM said, adding that he "benefitted" from PM Ibrahim's "guidance and insights on regional developments".

Earlier on Wednesday, EAM Jaishankar held a 'productive and frank discussion' with his Malaysian counterpart, Mohamad bin Haji Hasan, and the two leaders exchanged views on bilateral ties as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The two Ministers exchanged views on enhancing collaboration in political, economic, defence, digital, startups, consular and people-to-people linkages.

In addition, they shared perspectives on the region, Indo-Pacific, West Asia, and Ukraine.

"As we near completion of a decade of our Enhanced Strategic Partnership, look forward to further strengthening our engagements," Jaishankar wrote on X after meeting Haji Hasan.

Bound by robust economic partnerships and close people-to-people ties, the two nations share a long-standing and substantive relationship.

In 2023, India was Malaysia's 12th largest global trading partner with total trade amounting to RM 77.76 billion ($16.53 billion).
Chandigarh, March 27 : A theatre artiste and content specialist, Anmol Sidhu has revealed he has watched filmmaker Anurag Kashyap's videos to shoot his Punjabi feature film 'Jaggi'.

Presented at the 'India Unveiled' section of the Cinevesture International Film Festival (CIFF), 'Jaggi' is a 117-minute film directed, written and edited by Anmol.

The film's lead actor is Ramnish Chaudhary, who plays Jagdeep Singh aka Jaggi. It also features Harmandeep Singh, Gaurav Kumar, Shivam Kamboj and Aks Mehra in pivotal roles.

The movie addresses issues like discrimination, sexual abuse, and mental health.

Talking to IANS, Anmol talked about the procedure he followed for shooting this movie.

He said: "I watched Anurag Kashyap sir's videos. He has said in the videos that we can make films with the help of a phone, a film can be made from the left out reels. So, I purchased a camera, I didn't know how to handle it, so I roped in a wedding photographer from my village. He taught us how to use the cameras, he has shot some of the film."

Anmol, who comes from Kauloke in Bathinda, Punjab, said the entire shooting has been done in his village only.

The young filmmaker went on to say, "Like I took the camera, watched videos on YouTube and figured out how to operate the camera, and then we made the film. The same way other filmmakers are also doing. They are making films on their phones. You can get a camera within one lakh and it becomes easy to shoot a short film. And I think one should make short films to make a feature film."

If he faced any financial challenges while making this movie, Anmol, who is also known for his short film 'The Last Tree' said: "I made 'Jaggi' through crowdfunding, and more of a relationship funding. My friends have given me money to make this film. For me money is not a problem to make a film."

Anmol said shooting in a village on such a topic was very challenging. "We had one person in the crew, so villagers used to gather and think that something was happening," he recalled.

"There is a scene in the movie in which a girl is roaming around in the fields. What we see in the movies, in reality, is very tough. It's impossible to see a girl running in the fields in real life, that we usually watch on the screens," Anmol said.

He added: "When I had to bring my heroine to the fields in the movie, I took extra care, so that there is no controversy in the village. Since, it was a year for us shooting for the film, so the villagers had some understanding that we are doing something. But, I didn't tell the villagers on which topic I am making the film."

'Jaggi' revolves around a schoolboy from rural Punjab who encounters impotence and is mistaken to be homosexual.

Reflecting upon the issue being addressed in the film, and its acceptance in society, Anmol said: "This is a very common story about village people which sounds very rare. But it's not, it's very common stuff. The movie is accepted, because it has been screened in various film festivals, and people are watching it."

He added: "People message me as they want to see it. They want films to be made on such topics, because in Punjab only comedy films are made. So anything that is made apart from comedy will work. So according to me people want to see more films like 'Jaggi'," he said.

Talking about the casting, Anmol said that the lead actor Ramnish was his junior in the theatre.

"In the film there are two versions of Jaggi -- the younger one and the older. To achieve that we took a break of six months. First we shot his childhood, then Ramnish lost weight and played the elder Jaggi," he said.

Anmol added: "All of them are from theatre, they were junior artistes. They all lived near my village. So, during lockdown, we used to meet and improvise. I used to handle cameras, and Ramnish and Harman did production design, costumes, property supervision. They used to manage all this by themselves. Even during post production --- foley, sounds, dialogues -- we used to manage at our homes."

The movie has been produced by Dhruv Bakshi and Pardeep Tanna, with Jappreet Singh giving the music.
Chennai, March 27 : The Madras High Court on Wednesday dismissed a writ petition for quashing the election notification for Tamil Nadu fixing the date of polling as April 19 and the date of counting of votes as June 4.

The writ petition was filed by a person named Ezhilan who wanted the court to issue a directive to the Election Commission of India for advancing the date of counting without the present long gap of 45 days between the date of voting and the date of counting.

However, the first bench of the Madras High Court comprising Chief Justice Sanjay V. Gangapurwala and Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy rejected the plea.

Ezhilan's counsel A. Rajini argued that providing such a long gap of 45 days was against the spirit of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 which provides for the conduct of free and fair elections.

She also claimed that it was arbitrary and illegal to delay the counting of votes.

To this the Chief Justice asked whether there was any provision in the said Act that requires the Election Commission of India to count the votes within a specific period.

The counsel for the petitioner stated that there was no such provision in the Act.

After recording her submission, the judges wrote, "We do not find that the present petition espouses any public cause. It is more in the nature of a publicity interest litigation. The date of polling and counting has to be determined by only the Election Commission of India."

The first bench of the Madras High Court also said, "It will not be within the domain of the High Court by exercising its powers under Article 226 (writ jurisdiction) of the Constitution to interfere with the election programme."

The division bench further observed, "Article 329 (bar to interference by courts into electoral matters) of the Constitution also would not permit it to interfere with election programme."
New Delhi, March 27 : A global study of 845 unicorns and more than 2,000 tech leaders has revealed that most companies with a valuation of $1 billion and above have "underdog" founders and female entrepreneurs are on the rise.

The study, titled "Unicorn Founder DNA Report" by Defiance Capital found that 70 per cent of unicorns have "underdog founders" (like immigrants, women and people of colour).

According to a TechCrunch report on Wednesday, unicorns used to earlier have only male founders "but this is changing with 17 per cent having a female founder in 2023".

About half of them (53 per cent) have earned degrees from the top 10 global universities and 49 per cent of unicorn CEOs had STEM degrees, the findings showed.

The study also revealed that unicorns were dominated by white founders, but that every third unicorn had an Asian founder.

Several unicorn founders were forced to develop a growth mindset, "with values, work ethic, and ambitions all established during childhood".

Meanwhile, India is now home to more than 8,000 startups that have women founders with a cumulative funding of nearly $23 billion to date, according to the latest report by Tracxn, a leading market intelligence platform.

Women entrepreneurs' share of startups in the Indian tech industry exceeds 18 per cent, and among funded companies, the share is more than 14 per cent. Women-led startups represent a significant 14.8 per cent share of the overall Indian tech funding pie at nearly $155 billion.
Mumbai, March 27 : Actor Ishwak Singh, who is known for 'Rocket Singh', 'Paatal Lok' and 'Made In Heaven', has shared that the theatre culture of Mumbai and Delhi differ a lot in terms of their larger craft and pitching of the stories.

The actor recently did a play in Delhi titled 'Ek Mamooli Aadmi', and garnered a lot of positive responses. On the occasion of World Theatre Day, the actor spoke with IANS and shared that Delhi theatre is fuelled by raw passion while the Mumbai theatre circuit has a certain finesse which comes from the involvement of actors like Naseeruddin Shah.

Ishwak told IANS: "There is a finesse in Bombay theatre which comes from the active involvement of legends like Naseer sahab (Naseeruddin Shah) which is quite unique. Delhi theatre is fuelled by raw passion and driven by theatre gurus who are working against the tide to keep the art robust. Groups like Asmita and theatre directors like Arvind Gaur are at the forefront of it. Delhi being the capital is also a hotbed for political plays. These differences aside, what binds all theatre communities is a keen interest in exploring the craft."

Talking about the importance of theatre in the life of a screen actor, he said: "The stage is one place where you can learn the craft inside out, it's a sure shot way of learning the basics and developing your unique style."
Nepal electricity exports to India surge to USD 56 million in the last 4 months(IN). Image Source: IANS News

Bengaluru, March 27 : Karnataka Energy Minister K.J. George said on Wednesday that the state government has taken adequate steps to meet the power demand during the upcoming summer months.

The state's power consumption per day has touched 329 million units (MU) -- the highest ever -- as compared to the previous year's 300 MU power consumption per day.

George explained that this year's peak load is over 17,000 MW, compared to last year's peak load of above 15,300 MW.

aIn a bid to meet the rising electricity demand, I have instructed the energy department officials to ensure uninterrupted power supply to students preparing for exams and seven-hour uninterrupted power supply to the farmers in the state," the Minister said.

"Power generation has remained the same in the last four years. Had the production level been better during the previous BJP government, Karnataka would not have faced such a situation today.

"Lack of rain has also adversely affected power generation. Yet, power generation doubled during our first term of governance. In 2013-14, the electricity generation was 14,048 MW, which increased to 27,780 MW by 2017-18," George added.

Also, a poor monsoon has led to increased power consumption across households and the farm sector, roughly translating to a 45 per cent increase in consumption, he said.

"The irrigation pump sets consume a lionas share of power. Despite such shortfalls, the government is well prepared to handle the power demand during summer. We will ensure that energy consumption by consumers, farmers, and industries is being prioritised," he added.

To augment thermal power generation, the government has decided to import 2.5 lakh tonnes of coal from Indonesia and blend it with locally sourced coal, the Minister said.

This is expected to help the existing thermal plants generate 600-800 MW of power in addition to their existing capacity of 3,400 MW, and will cater to the peak summer demand, he added.
New Delhi, March 27 : The Aspirational Districts Programme, one of the flagship schemes of Narendra Modi-led government launched in 2018, is bringing tranformational change in people's lives across 112 districts of the country.

The ground-breaking scheme was launched to improve economic indicators in specific districts, with low progress in key social areas and also to bring them at a level-playing field.

Over past five to six years, the programme plugged the loopholes in governance and bridged the developmental gaps, thus benefitting crores of people living in these districts.

Though all states have different proportions of aspirational districts, some of them with maximum numbers are Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand in north, Assam in east and Andhra Pradesh in south.

To make the programme more effective and result-oriented on ground, Aspirational Blocks programme was launched in 2022 to expedite the progress on ground level.

Taking first-hand account of some of these aspirational blocks, one gets to see exemplary progress on various economic indicators.

In Kotwali block of Uttar Pradesh, Nagina has risen to national and global prominence because of its wide range of handicrafts and artifacts. The district categorised under the One District-One Product (OPOD) programme has seen instrumental growth in past few years. The common facility centres here are providing financial help to locals to start their own enterprise.

As per official records, more than 97 per cent of villages have been declared "defecation-free" while 98 per cent households have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin).

Self-help groups have also benefitted from Narendra Modi-led government's push for "Vocal for Local" and locals are being mobilised for becoming a 'partner in growth'.

In Assam, the Mandia block has undergone transformational change over past few years, particularly in access to clean tap water to households. More than 80 per cent houses in the region have access to clean tap water. The Jal Jeevan Mission has shown remarkable penetration in remote locations, courtesy 'Jal Mitras' appointed by the local administration.

Water treatment plants have been a huge success here. 'Jal Mitras' keep a check on water quality and ensure the uninterrupted supply of drinking water to residents of the block.

Jharkhand's Dumri block has shown remarkable progress in health and nutrition sector, being its best performing economic indicator.

Dumri block, which falls under aspirational district Gumla, the emphasis on tackling malnutrition in children and improving their health with nutritious food has yielded exemplary results.

The government centres, via its paramedics, are also providing medical advice to pregnant women for giving birth to healthy infants.

In Chattishgarh's Orchha block, the 'pashu palan' programme and thrust on agriculture is yielding exemplary results. A wide-scale programme for vaccinating pet animals was launched here and it has turned pivotal in tackling foot and mouth disease in animals, said one of the veterinary expert.

Andhra Pradesh's Maddikera East has carved a name for itself in imparting high quality education in rural areas and setting up good educational infrastructure in the region. The aspirational district of Andhra Pradesh has also lived up to the promise in the girl child marriage area as well.

Notably, during the launch of Aspirational Districts Programme on January 5, 2018, Prime Minister Modi had said, "We need to identify existing aspirations in the districts and channelise them to create a ripple effect for transforming aspirational districts."

The success stories of these aspirational districts and aspirational blocks indeed shows government's commitment and vision for ensuring last-mile delivery of services.
Constituency watch: In Dum Dum it is the clash between three salt & pepper politicians. Image Source: IANS News

Kolkata, March 27 : Dum Dum Lok Sabha constituency in North 24 Parganas District, which has a history of changing its voting pattern in consecutive elections since 1977, will be an interesting watch this time, with three veteran politicians clashing with each other.

For Trinamool Congressa three-time MP since 2009 from Dum Dum, Saugata Roy, the concern is his winning margin in 2019 which came down sharply to 52,999 from 1,54,934 in 2014.

The second factor that might be cause of concern for Saugata Roy is that the CPI(M) this time has fielded party veteran and central committee member, Dr Sujan Chakraborty, from Dum Dum, where his party still has a dedicated voter base.

In case Dr Sujan Chakraborty, with his vast experience in party organisation activities as well as electoral politics, is able to grab a substantial share of the anti-BJP votes from Dum Dum, it could be rough going for Saugata Roy.

At the same time, the BJP has fielded Shilbhadra Dutta, who as an erstwhile Trinamool Congress leader from North 24 Parganas District has substantial experience in handling the ruling partyas organisational affairs there.

Shilbhadra Dutta joined the BJP before the 2021 West Bengal Assembly polls and also contested unsuccessfully as the partyas candidate from Barrackpore Assembly constituency that year.

However, he was one of the few who did not rejoin the Trinamool Congress even after being defeated, which substantially enhanced his political credibility.

The factor that might make Dum Dum anybodyas game is the change in the voting pattern since 1977.

In 1977 it was the Janata Partyas Ashok Krishna Dutta who won from that constituency, but only for a single term.

In 1980, the CPI(M)'s Niren Ghosh emerged as the victor from Dum Dum. However the equation changed again in 1984, when the Congressa Asutosh Laha got elected from the constituency.

Thereafter, the CPI(M)as Nirmal Kanti Chatterjee got elected from Dum Dum for three consecutive terms in 1989, 1991 and 1996.

In 1998 BJPas Tapan Sikdar emerged as the surprise winner from Dum Dum and he got re-elected from the same constituency again in 1999. Again in 2004, Sikdar got defeated by CPI(M)as Amitava Nandy.

However, since 2009 Dum Dum has become a Trinamool Congress bastion with Saugata Roy winning three consecutive terms, though with fluctuating margins.

So since 1977, none of the parties have managed to retain the seat for more than three consecutive terms and going by that logic Saugata Roy, too, has reached the optimum level of Dum Dumas victory records.

Considering the twin-factors of Saugata Royas fluctuating victory margins and the strong anti-incumbency wave against the Trinamool Congress this time, it can be said that the battle for the ruling party candidate and the retired professor of Physics will be an easy one this time.

Dum Dum with a strength of over 15 lakh voters, is basically a middle class-dominated constituency with a substantial population of refugee voters who had come to India from Bangladesh post-Partition.
New Delhi, March 27 : Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra and his family have pledged Rs 500 crore over the next five years to Mahindra University, starting from the next financial year (FY25) till FY29, it was announced on Wednesday.

The funds would help propel Mahindra Universityas mission to strive for interdisciplinary academic excellence and train multi-skilled leaders committed to "inclusive and sustainable progress", the university said in a statement.

Anand Mahindra also made a personal pledge of Rs 50 crore endowing the Indira Mahindra School of Education in FY25. Named in memory of Indira Mahindra, a teacher and Anand Mahindraas mother, the school aspires to be a centre of excellence in educational research, practice, and innovations.

The combined pledge of Rs 550 crore is the latest of many education initiatives that Anand Mahindra supports around the country, including the Mahindra United World College India and the Mahindra International School.

In 1996, the entrepreneur started the aNanhi Kalia programme, which has provided over 700,000 underprivileged girls with access to high-quality education over the past two decades.

Mahindra University was established in May 2020 in Hyderabad. Beginning with the School of Engineering, the university now offers 35 programmes across five schools and four centres at the undergraduate, post-graduate, and doctorate levels. The university has over 4,100 students enrolled, approximately 10 per cent of whom are at the postgraduate level.
Ahmedabad, March 27 : The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Wednesday evacuated a critically-ill man from a tugboat off Gujarat's Veraval coast and shifted him to a government hospital for further treatment, officials said.

After receiving information regarding a medical emergency on tug 'ABS Anokhi' on Tuesday, ICG interceptor craft IC-121 immediately rushed from ICG maritime Rescue Sub-Centre at Veraval in Gir Somnath district of Gujarat, it said in a statement.

One K Ponnusamy, 47, was evacuated from the tug located around 10 km from Veraval, it said.

Upon reaching the vessel, the Coast Guard team communicated with the tugboat and carried out the evacuation.

Ponnusamy, who was seriously ill, was transferred to the ICG craft under supervision of the onboard medical team and was further shifted to the government hospital in Veraval, where he received the necessary medical attention.
Chennai, March 27 : The District Collector in Tamil Nadu's Kallakurichi, who's also the election officer for the district, has issued an invitation card for the voters, urging them to not accept gifts or cash in return for votes.

The card released by Sravan Kumar Jatavath is in the form of a traditional wedding invitation, requesting the voters to come to the polling booths and cast their votes in the Lok Sabha elections scheduled on April 19.

The card has been printed on yellow paper, considered to be auspicious, calling the elections a "good occasion".

The happy occasion is scheduled in the year of Thiruvalluvar 2055 [the current Tamil year] and the Tamil month of Chithirai [when the elections will be held], on a Friday during the auspicious time between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The invitation also appeals to the electorate to exercise their franchise without fail.

Exchanging gifts during elections is punishable and should be avoided, it says.

Commenting on the development, R. Rajakannu, a social activist and businessman based out of Kallakurichi, said, "Hats off to the unique idea mooted by the District Collector and his team. The colour selection makes the invite a visual treat. I am certain that such initiatives will draw more people to the polling stations."
India highlights need for data integrity at UN meet on climate change. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, March 27 : Data integrity is essential for a fair audit assessment of any national climate action plan, an absence of which may result in biases in climate data and misguided policy decisions, the Comptroller & Auditor General of India, Girish Chandra Murmu, said at a panel discussion at the UN headquarters in New York.

The two-day event on ClimateScanner Global Call: Engaging Supreme Audit Institutions in Assessing National Climate Action, Accounts  Brazil (TCU) on March 25 and 26, according to a statement issued by the CAG's office on Wednesday.

The ClimateScanner is an initiative led by the Supreme Audit Institution of Brazil to develop a comprehensive audit tool for assessing government efforts in alleviating climate change issues.

Murmu said that the Supreme Audit Institutions face several obstacles while assessing national climate action, including data gaps, incomplete records and a limited number of climate stations.

The lack of standardised methodologies and reporting frameworks and different countries deploying different approaches to measure emissions make the task of comparing and aggregating data globally challenging.

This requires sustained efforts at capacity building and hand-holding amongst SAI members, he added.

At the session, Murmu shared India's climate action journey beginning with the setting up of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) in 2008.

He said India has achieved success in eight national missions, including declining greenhouse gas emissions since 2005 and meeting 42 per cent cumulative installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources against a target of 50 per cent by 2030."

He urged SAI members to undertake collaborative action. "By developing recommendations from insights gleaned from audits of climate change initiatives, we can pave the way for SAIs to become pivotal players in the fight against climate change," he said.

At a separate event, the CAG of India formally handed over the 2024 Chairmanship of SAI 20 Engagement Group to the President of the Federal Court of Accounts-Brazil, Minister Bruno Dantas.
Islamabad, March 27 : The Baloch Liberation Army claimed killing more than 30 Pakistani soldiers as it targeted PNS Siddique, the country's second-largest naval air station located in Turbat and warned China on its "illegal" settlements and projects in Balochistan.

In a statement, the group said that its Majeed Brigade successfully concluded the fifth phase of "Operation ZirPahazag" to "retaliate against ongoing Baloch genocide" and save the region from Chinese "occupation and exploitation".

"Majeed Brigade of Baloch Liberation Army, in the fifth phase of Operation ZirPahazag, last night (Monday) at ten o'clock, attacked the occupied army's Naval Airbase, PNS Siddique, engaging the enemy till morning and successfully achieving the objectives of the operation by killing more than thirty enemy soldiers," BLA spokesperson, Jeeyand Baloch, stated.

The statement came as local media reports in Islamabad said that the attack killed one paramilitary soldier while security forces on the Pakistan side killed all five attackers in retaliatory fire.

Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the "terrorists" attempted to attack PNS Siddique in Turbat and the assault was "foiled" due to the "swift and effective response by the troops".

Baloch said that while bringing the operation to its culmination, four fighters of the Majeed Brigade were killed, identifying them as Ayub alias Doda, Khalif alias Islam, Wajid alias Nodan, and Murad alias Farhad.

He added that their fighters "broke through the strong security barricade of the enemy army's Naval Airbase PNS Siddique and entered successfully, neutralising one enemy bunker and destroying two drones of the enemy army".

"When the ammunition ran out, all four fighters embraced martyrdom with their last bullets," Baloch said, adding, "These were just four fidayees; currently, there are hundreds of trained men and women fidayees in the ranks of Majeed Brigade, who are always ready to strike effective blows against the enemy".

Further, the BLA issued a stern warning to China on its CPEC (ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor) projects in the region and reiterated that the Asian nation is complicit in looting Baloch resources by colluding with Pakistan.

In addition, it is also involved in suppressing the Baloch movement by providing military and economic assistance to the occupying Pakistani Army, the statement said.

"If China does not stop its exploitative projects in Balochistan and does not cease its support to the occupying Pakistani army in Baloch genocide, the Baloch Liberation Army reserves the right to launch severe attacks on illegal Chinese settlements and projects in Balochistan," Baloch said.

The development corresponds with Tuesday's suicide attack on five Chinese nationals who died after their vehicle was targeted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Besham city in Shangla district. Police said the attackers crashed their vehicle full of explosives into the car carrying Chinese engineers who were going to Dasu camp in Kohistan from Islamabad.

Dasu is the site of a major hydroelectric dam, under construction by the China Gezhouba Group Company, and the area has been attacked in the past.

The safety of Chinese workers has long been an area of concern in Pakistan and in January this year, BLA initiated 'Operation Dara-e-Bolan' in the Mach and Bolan regions of Balochistan. This was followed by an attack on the Military Intelligence headquarters in Gwadar on March 20.

Active since 2011, the BLA is one of the most prominent separatist groups operating in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province -- a strategically important area for the Islamic nation due to an abundance of natural resources.
Srinagar, March 27 : J&K Police booked a man on Wednesday for giving fake information about contraband substances to implicate people.

"Reliable information was received by police station Karnah in Kupwara district that one person identified as Azam Shah of Pingla Haridal village is using urea fertiliser and white cosmetic powder etc to make artificial brown sugar-like substance," police said.

Thereafter, the said person is giving wrong information to security agencies in order to falsely implicate innocent persons, police said.

"FIR No. 14/2024 US 420 IPC has been registered in Police station Karnah and an investigation taken up. During the search of his premises, incriminating material including urea fertiliser, starch powder, white cosmetic powder and cell phone of the said accused has been seized for expert analysis," police said.

Police said that further investigation is underway in the case.

--IANS

sq/dan
New Delhi, March 27 : After a brief exchange of fire, the Delhi Police's Special Cell has nabbed a Bihar-based gangster wanted in several cases of murder, and attempt to murder, and under the Arms Act, an official said on Wednesday.

Police said that Abhishek Kumar a.k.a Rahul Singh alias Mukhiya, who hails from Bihar's Champaran, was also in contact with some local criminals in Delhi and frequently visited the city to procure arms and ammunition.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Special Cell, Pratiksha Godara said that on March 24, information was received that Mukhiya would come to receive arms and ammunition from his contact in the Akshardham Flyover-Noida link road area.

"Accordingly, a police team was deployed at the Noida Link Road-Akshardham Flyover. At about 9:15 pm, a person was seen arriving on a motorcycle. After being identified by an informant, he was asked to surrender," she said.

However, the accused attempted to escape and fired upon the police team.

"In self-defence, the police also fired, resulting in the accused being injured in his right leg. He was then taken to the hospital for treatment," said the DCP.

As per police, Mukhiya committed his first crime in 2006 when he, along with associate Laxmi Singh, demanded extortion money from a chemist named Anil Kumar. Upon refusal, Mukhiya and his associates murdered Anil Kumar, using an AK47 assault rifle.

"The accused and his associate Tuna Singh also murdered another person named Mantu Sharma due to a property dispute, using an AK47. Afterwards, Mukhiya handed over the AK47 to his associate Kunal Singh. Later, the weapon was recovered by the Bihar Police from Kunal Singh's possession," said the DCP.

In 2016, Mukhiya and Tuna Singh murdered four persons. Subsequently, in 2017, accused Mukhiya and his associates murdered one person, namely Bablu Dubey, at a Bihar court due to a rivalry.

"In 2020, Mukhiya was released from jail and became involved in the politics of Motihari district," said the DCP.
New Delhi, March 27 : Mohammedan Sporting will have one hand on the coveted I-League 2023-24 trophy if they can beat Inter Kashi at the Naihati Bankimanjali Stadium on Saturday.

Mohammedan Sporting are currently leading the table with 48 points from 21 matches and a victory would take them on the brink of winning their maiden I-League title, marking a historic achievement for the club. Their closest brush with I-League glory previously was in the 2021-22 season when they finished runners-up to Gokulam Kerala.

So far, Mohammedan Sporting have registered 14 wins, six draws and suffered only one defeat. The only team that can still challenge the Kolkata giants for the crown are Sreenidi Deccan FC, who are sitting at the second spot with 40 points from 20 matches. The Deccan Warriors might have drawn their last match against Churchill Brothers but they still have a mathematical chance of taking home the cup.

However, Sreenidi Deccan cannot afford to slip any further and need to win all their remaining four matches. In fact, a draw or a loss in any of these matches would give Mohammedan Sporting the title, provided the Black Panthers reach 51 points after a win over Inter Kashi.

But Inter Kashi would be keen on spoiling Mohammedan Sportingas party. They are currently in red-hot form with four consecutive victories and will be aiming to extend the winning streak. They are third in the standings with 39 points from 22 matches and are already out of the title race. With nothing to lose, one can expect Inter Kashi to give a tough fight to the Kolkata giants.

Mohammedan Sporting, who drew their last match against Real Kashmir FC, will be banking on Eddie Hernandez to score the goals. The Honduras forward is joint third in the list of top scorers with 13 goals and will be eyeing the top spot currently occupied by Alejandro Sanchez Lopez with 16 strikes.

All eyes will also be on Sreenidi Deccan, who will take on Rajasthan United FC on Sunday at their home. Rajasthan United will aim to return to winning ways following their loss to Namdhari FC in their last match.

While these two games remain the highly-anticipated fixtures of this round, there will be a keen tussle among the teams at the bottom of the pile too.

Churchill Brothers, Namdhari FC, Aizawl FC, NEROCA FC, TRAU FC are all fighting to beat the drop. Understandably, it will be a key battle when Churchill Brothers face Aizawl FC on Thursday. Churchill Brothers occupy the ninth spot with 24 points from 20 matches and have four matches remaining. A win against Aizawl will certainly mark them safe.
New Delhi, March 27 : In a first high-level visit by a Ukrainian leader since the start of war with Russia in 2022, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba will arrive in India on Thursday to discuss bilateral relations and regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Kuleba will be arriving in New Delhi on a two-day official visit at the invitation of the External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and will have a "number of engagements".

He would call upon Jaishankar and Deputy National Security Adviser to discuss matters pertaining to the bilateral partnership and cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday.

In his maiden visit to the South Asian nation, the Minister is also expected to interact with the business community.

Kuleba announced his visit to India as he extended Holi wishes to the people of India on Monday.

"Standing here in Kiev, in front of Mahatma Gandhi's monument, I am also pleased to announce that this week I will pay my first-ever visit to India," Kuleba said in a post on X.

Kuleba's visit comes just as Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Presidents of the warring Ukraine and Russia over the telephone this month.

In his talks with Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that India supports all efforts for an early and peaceful resolution of all issues between Kiev and Moscow.

The Prime Minister added that India would continue to do everything within its means to support a peaceful solution as Zelensky appreciated the country's continued humanitarian assistance for the people of Ukraine.

While discussing the Russia-Ukraine war with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's stable position in favour of dialogue and diplomacy.
Mansa, March 27 : Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Badal on Wednesday appealed to people to support its own regional party which was taking on all Delhi-based parties by contesting the parliamentary elections on principles to safeguard the interests of Punjab.

The SAD President, who toured the Mansa and Budhlada assembly constituencies, was accompanied by Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal. Hundreds of women came up to both the SAD chief and Harsimrat to complain how their names had been deleted from various social welfare schemes besides blessing them for the manner in which they had conducted development in the Bathinda parliamentary constituency during the 10-year tenure of the SAD-led government in the state.

Asserting that SAD was the only regional party in the fray, Badal said: "We are arraigned against the Bharatiya Janata Party, the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) that have no agenda for Punjab. Only SAD can protect your rights.

He also highlighted how both the Congress and the AAP governments had taken Punjab back by decades, besides asserting that both Punjab and the Bathinda parliamentary constituency had suffered during the last seven years.

"Look around you, all development including the AIIMS institute, thermal plant, refinery central university, airport or road infrastructure -- all of it came about during the SAD government tenure. Both the Congress and AAP have nothing to show by way of any achievement."

He also highlighted the spirited manner in which Harsimrat Badal had protected the interests of her constituents and brought in major projects into the constituency.
Nagpur, March 27 : The MahaYuti partners in Maharashtra -- BJP, Shiv Sena, NCP, and factions of the Republican Party of India -- staged a show of strength on Wednesday as Union Minister and BJP nominee Nitin Gadkari filed his nomination from Nagpur.

Leaders present at the rally unanimously urged the workers to work wholeheartedly to ensure Gadkarias victory by a record margin. Two-time sitting MP from Nagpur, Gadkari is up against Congress nominee Vikas Thakre this time.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, and NCP Working President Praful Patel were present at the rally before Gadkari filed his nomination, among others.

"Gadkari, who is the commander-in-chief of Prime Minister Narendra Modias Viksit Bharat 2047 resolution, should be elected with a record majority. The work done by the Narendra Modi government in the last 10 years was a trailer... A lot more needs to be done to make the country strong and developed.

"Under the leadership of PM Modi, we want to create a poverty-free, unemployment-free, and egalitarian India in the next five years. The Prime Minister has resolved to make India a developed country by 2047. New milestones will be set up in the next five years, and therefore people should elect Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister for the third time," said Fadnavis.

BJP nominee from Bhandara-Gondiya, Sunil Mendhe, also filed his nomination on Wednesday. Mendhe is pitted against Congress nominee Prashant Patole.

The BJP, which has resolved to achieve 'Mission 45-plus' with its allies in Maharashtra, proposes to reach out to one crore voters by organising 21,000 Namo Samvads across the state.

At the Namo Samvad events, the party plans to present a comparative picture of India before and after 2014, with a focus on the emergence of a New India under the Narendra Modi-led government.

BJP General Secretary Vikrant Patil said that many important leaders at the national and regional levels will campaign for the Lok Sabha elections.

The Namo Samvad meetings will be organised to reach out to the maximum number of voters directly. These meetings will be scheduled as per the voting phases in the state. Nearly 300 speakers will participate in these meetings which will be held at 21,000 Shakti Kendras, he said.

Patil also said that the party will undertake several other programmes, including 'Namo Choupal' and 'Coffee With Youth' in the rural areas of the state.
Lucknow, March 27 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Wednesday, said that it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'nation first versus opposition's family first' in the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Lucknow, March 27 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Wednesday, said that it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's anation first versus opposition's family firsta in the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls.

He emphasised the PM Modi administration's dedication to upholding the rule of law, prioritising national interests and adhering to zero tolerance policy for corruption, juxtaposing it with the dominance of the mafia and thriving corruption during opposition governments in the past.

In his first public address following the announcement of the Lok Sabha election dates, the Chief Minister engaged with intellectuals, seeking support for BJP candidates, while also presenting a comprehensive overview of numerous development schemes of the Modi government.

He contrasted the opposition parties' divisive politics based on appeasement, caste, and religion with Modi's inclusive governance, aimed at extending the benefits of welfare schemes to all, regardless of background, under the banner of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas."

The Chief Minister described Prime Minister Modi as a leader who embraces all 140 crore citizens as part of his extended family, urging everyone to envision a new India within the folds of Modi's family.

The Chief Minister remarked that while the bhajan 'Holi Khele Raghubira' is a familiar tune to many, it marked a historic occasion when, after 500 years, the revered Lord Ram witnessed the unique Holi celebrations from his abode in Ayodhya.

Besides, Holi celebrations in Mathura-Vrindavan, Barsana, Gokul, Govardhan, Nandgaon, and Baldev have all grabbed headlines due to the presence of a large number of devotees, the Chief Minister said.

The Chief Minister emphasised the transformative changes witnessed over the past decade, portraying a dynamic shift towards a new India, with fortified border security alongside significant infrastructural advancements under PM Modi's leadership.

Developments span highways, railways, airports, medical colleges, universities, and various new institutions, while benefits of welfare schemes have reached the underprivileged without any discrimination.

"Prior to 2014, schemes were often tailored based on considerations for caste and religion as part of vote bank politics. However, post-2014, adherence to the principle of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" ensures equal distribution of benefits among people without bias. Every stratum of society a" be it the impoverished, entrepreneurs, women, youth, or farmers a" reaps the rewards, receiving security subsidies universally," he said.

The absence of a single riot in the last seven years of the government headed by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the guaranteed safety of women and traders and effective action against mafias and gangsters as well as significant transformation brought about in Uttar Pradesh's security landscape since 2017 are likely to play vital role in helping voters in making their choices during the LS elections in the state, he stated.
New Delhi, March 27 : The Viksit Bharat Ambassador meet-up program was held in IIM Jammu on Wednesday and it saw the gathering of many students of the institute, raring to show their support and solidarity for the Viskit Bharat 2047 mission.

At the event, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Anurag Thakur spoke at length about landmark achievements of the past decade under the Modi government and also explained how the world was paying heed to Indiaas advances in various fields including the digital sphere.

A lot of students of IIM Jammu students participated in the Viksit Bharat Ambassador meet-up program, that was organised in its campus on Wednesday.

Rishik Kumar, a student of IIM Jammu hailed the initiative as a progressive and path-breaking step and said that this will spur youths to come forward and contribute positively to achieve the Viskit Bharat mission by 2047.

Another student lauded the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that this was a progressive and transformative step for making India a world leader by 2047.

Pranika Srivastava said that she became aware of the Viksit Bharat 2047 initiative and about the program from her friends. Heaping praise on the unique initiative, she said that this will lay the foundation for nationas all-round growth.

Palak Yadav, another girl student said that the Viksit Bharat program at IIM Jammu campus was a great opportunity for them to join the campaign and also chip in with their endeavour towards realising the Viskit Bharat 2047 goal.

Notably, the Viksit Bharat Ambassador (VBA) meet-ups and events are being organised across the country with an aim to encourage citizens to take responsibility for contributing to Indiaas development. Through these events, the participants are encouraged to engage in constructive discussions, exchange ideas and also to explore practical solutions to nagging problems.
Mumbai, March 27 : The BJP in Maharashtra is all set to cash in on the cracks that have surfaced among the Maha Vikas Aghadi partners, and the political situation arising after the Prakash Ambedkar-led Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) announced to go solo by fielding seven candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

BJP insiders said the 'Tu Tu Main Main' among the MVA partners and VBAas move to join hands with pro-Maratha activist Manoj Jarange Patil is a blessing in disguise to achieve its 'Mission 45-plus seats' target in the state.

Apart from riding on the Narendra Modi wave and the 'Modi Ki Guarantee' plank, the BJP hopes to benefit from the division of votes among the MVA partners.

The party looks to have the last laugh over the political developments unfolding in the state, especially after differences surfaced between the Congress and the Shiv Sena (UBT) and also due to VBAas 'Ekla Cholo' move.

More importantly, the BJP expects to gain political mileage with VBAas move to field its nominees in Bhandara-Gondiya, Gadchiroli, Chandrapur, Buldhana, Akola, Amravati, Wardha, and Yavatmal-Washim, where the Congress is the main opponent.

The Congress, which continues to be a divided house, is pulling out its resources and mobilising the party cadres to fight against the BJP in the eight seats in the Vidarbha region. However, VBAas move is expected to hamper Congress' plans.

The Vidarbha region had been a Congress bastion, but over the years, it has lost its grip and is now struggling to stay relevant there.

On the other hand, the BJP has systematically increased its presence and consolidated its position in the Vidarbha region by not just winning Lok Sabha and Assembly elections since 2014, but also increasing its tally in the local bodies. The party expects to gain from the VBAas decision to contest elections in the Vidarbha region.

Also, the Shiv Sena (UBT) announcing its nominees in Sangli (which was demanded by the Congress) and four seats in Mumbai has not gone down well with the grand old party.

Congress leaders Balasaheb Thorat and Vijay Wadettiwar even criticised Uddhav Thackeray for 'breach of alliance dharma'. Ex-MP and senior Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam not only lashed out at Thackeray, but also the party leadership for its 'total surrender' to Shiv Sena (UBT).

Nirupam has also threatened to take an 'extreme step' if the party leadership fails to take corrective measures.

Claiming that many people have walked out of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is projected by the BJP as the 'Chanakya' of Maharashtra politics, said, "Although I do not want to comment on what is happening in the MVA, one thing is clear that all is not well there."

Fadnavis also targeted Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, saying the Congress will have to get used to his style of functioning.

"We had experienced it when we were together," he said.

Fadnavis' cryptic remarks have dropped a hint that the BJP, along with the other MahaYuti partners, will reach out to the voters by exposing the MVAas 'failure' to stitch a seat-sharing arrangement.

The BJP will go the whole hog with its Viksit Bharat 2047 resolution, and to make Narendra Modi the Prime Minister for the third time.

Meanwhile, Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar took a dig at Thackeray, claiming that the people of Maharashtra will soon realise that the party is nothing less than a gasbag full of arrogance, considering the way it is behaving with the Congress and its partners in the INDIA bloc.

Shelar's remarks also show that the BJP is determined to dent Thackerayas sympathy card and lure the traditional Shiv Sainiks and Marathi Manoos in the six constituencies in Mumbai.

As campaigning for the Lok Sabha polls gathers momentum, the BJP and its allies propose to step up their attacks against Thackeray and other INDIA bloc partners by taking advantage of the rifts while projecting the MahaYutias show of unity.
Mumbai, March 27 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday issued summons to Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Amol G. Kirtikar, who has been named the party's candidate for the Mumbai North West Lok Sabha seat.

The ED has summoned Kirtikar as part of its probe into the alleged money-laundering case arising out of the 'khichdi scam' first probed by the Mumbai Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW).

SS (UBT) MP and chief spokesperson Sanjay Raut attacked the BJP over the development, terming it as a 'pressure tactic' applied on the party candidate.

"The ED summons followed soon after Amol Kirtikar was declared as the SS (UBT) candidate from Mumbai North West. These are simply the BJP's attempts to silence its political opponents by deploying such pressure tactics," Raut said.

The alleged 'khichdi scam' pertains to the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) awarding contracts to serve this humble but nutritious fare to thousands of migrants stranded during the Covid-19 pandemic, when the erstwhile Maha Vikas Aghadi regime headed by Uddhav Thackeray was in power.

After the MVA government was toppled, the EOW registered an FIR in September 2023 against several SS (UBT) leaders, including Raut's close aide Sujit Patkar, Sunil Kadam, Rajeev Salunkhe from a catering company, some BMC employees, and others over the alleged scam of Rs 6.37 crore.

During probe, Kirtikar's name also cropped up and he was quizzed by the EOW for over six hours in September last year. After the money-laundering angle emerged in the case, the ED stepped into the picture in October 2023.

The ED has filed its own complaint, and arrested Suraj Chavan, a close associate of SS (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray, besides slapping attachment orders on his properties worth Rs 88 lakh.

Former BJP MP Kirit Somaiya, who highlighted the scam, claimed that "Amol Kirtikar had received Rs 1.65 crore out of the 'khichdi scam', for which he would be held accountable".

Kirtikar (52) is the son of a veteran Shiv Sena leader Gajanan Kirtikar, the sitting MP from Mumbai North West, who allied with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde after the party split in June 2022.

While the prestigious seat is being coveted by the ruling Shiv Sena and the BJP, SS (UBT)'s decision to field Kirtikar from the seat drew huge flak from the MVA partners Congress-Nationalist Congress Party (SP) on Wednesday.
Bhopal, March 27 : Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday called the former Chief Minister Kamal Nath an "outsider" and asked the voters in Chhindwara to bid adieu to "outsider" in the upcoming elections.

Bhopal, March 27 (IANS) Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday called the former Chief Minister Kamal Nath an "outsider" and asked the voters in Chhindwara to bid adieu to "outsider" in the upcoming elections.

"Outsiders came here (Chhindwara) but they are not willing to move out. It's an appropriate time (Lok Sabha election) to bid adieu to the outsiders," Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said while addressing a rally in Chhindwara on Wednesday, without mentioning Kamal Nath.

The Chief Minister indirectly attempted to remind the Chhindwara voters that Kamal Nath, who has won nine times from Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat and made it his family bastion for the last 40 years, was born in Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh).

Hitting further at Kamal Nath, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the Congress leader did not see leadership potential "beyond his family members".

Referring to the people of Chhindwara, the Chief Minister said: "Every time you elect a leader from just one family. Is there no leadership quality in your children? Why don't you elect the person who belongs to you and live with you?"

He also questioned the leadership quality of Chhindwara MP Nakul Nath, who is contesting his second Lok Sabha election from his family bastion.

"Do you see any potential in Chhindwara MP? Your children were not allowed to grow because Kamal Nath did not see leadership quality in you beyond his family members," the Chief Minister said.

He was addressing the rally in support of BJP candidate Vivek Shahu 'Banti', who has been fielded against the loan Congress MP from Madhya Pradesh in 2019, Nakul Nath.

The BJP has fielded Banti against Nakul Nath. Interestingly, it is the third time Banti has been fielded against the Nath family. Earlier, Banti fought the Assembly election against Kamal Nath in November last year and lost by a margin of 37,000 votes.

He had also contested against the Congress veteran during the by-poll (Chhindwara Assembly seat) in 2019 but lost. However, the BJP this time has broken several trusted allies of Kamal Nath, including former minister Deepak Saxena, who had left the Chhindwara assembly seat for Kamal Nath in 2019.

Saxena used to be a close member of Kamal Nath's political circle in Chhindwara. On Tuesday, when Nakul Nath filed his nomination papers, Saxena was supposed to join Nath family, however, he did not turned-up untill the last minute.

A chair reserved for Saxena during Kamal Nath-Nakul Nath's Tuesday rally also remained vacant. Saxena has not joined the BJP so far, but at the same time has maintained distance from Kamal Nath.

Notably, the Chhindwara parliamentary seat is the lone seat in the state where the Congress registered victory in the last Lok Sabha election.

Lok Sabha elections in Madhya Pradesh are scheduled to be held in the first four phases of the total seven phases dated April 19, April 26, May 7, and May 13.
Shimla, March 27 : A court on Wednesday sent Central University Himachal Pradesh (CUHP) chemistry professor Rajender Kumar, who was arrested on charges of sexual assault of a student, to police custody till March 30.

According to the police, charges against the accused have been framed under Section 376 (Punishment for sexual assault) of the Indian Penal Code.

The student, in a complaint, said the professor had sexually assaulted her on the pretext of altering the subject of her research.

Superintendent of Police Shalini Agnihotri told the media that Prof Kumar, 44, told the victim that if she agreed to his "terms", he would help her.
Bengaluru, March 27 : Former Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on Wednesday said that Union Minister Pralhad Joshi had no role in his ouster from the Chief Minister's post.

"Pralhad Joshi had no role in it," he said.

He said that under no circumstances would Joshi's ticket be replaced.

Lingayat seer Dingaleshwar Swamiji has alleged that Union Minister Pralhad Joshi was behind the party's move to ask Yediyurappa to step down from the post of Chief Minister in 2021.

Yediyurappa emphasised that there is no dissent in Karnataka BJP. "There were differences of opinion in Davanagere. I have gone there and resolved the issue. There was opposition to former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar, BJP's candidate for Belagavi, but now it has been quelled," he said.

On former Deputy Chief Minister K.S. Eshwarappa, Yediyurappa said: "I am in discussion with him, and everything will be alright soon."

Eshwarappa has said that he would contest as an independent candidate against the BJP in Shivamogga.

He also acknowledged former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda as a significant force. "He will come for the election campaigning with us, and we will benefit from this. The Congress is a sinking ship. No one will wish to board that ship. If someone is still joining the Congress, I wish them luck," he said.

Yediyurappa added that the BJP tickets are finalised for all other seats. There is an anti-Congress wave in the state, and BJP will win all 28 MP seats, he stated.

--IANS

mka/dan
Brasilia, March 27 : India on Wednesday commended the continuity in the G20 multi-year agenda for creating quality employment and gender equality in the workplace at the Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting under the Brazilian Presidency.

India as a member of the G20 Troika, is co-chairing the two-day EWG meeting, along with Brazil and South Africa.

Indiaas representative Sumita Dawra noted that the priority areas of the 2nd EWG at Brasilia align with the priority areas and outcomes of previous G20 presidencies including the Indian presidency.

On the first day of the meeting, deliberations were held on the over-arching theme of promotion of gender equality and promoting diversity in the workplace. The Indian delegation emphasised the need for creating inclusive environments by ensuring equal representation and empowerment for all, irrespective of race, gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic background.

The focus areas for the 2nd EWG meeting are (i) creating quality employment and promoting decent labour; (ii) addressing a just transition amidst digital and energy transformations; (iii) leveraging technologies to enhance the quality of life for all; (iv) the emphasis on gender equity and promoting diversity in the world of employment for inclusivity, driving innovation and growth.

In this context, the Indian delegation elucidated significant strides taken by India in the promotion of gender equality in the workplace and beyond and steps taken for migrant workers.

Indiaas achievements that were highlighted on the first day of the meeting include the increase in female labour force participation.

India has enacted the Occupational Safety Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 which entitles women to be employed in all establishments for all types of work with their consent at night time. This provision has already been implemented in underground mines.

In 2017, the government amended the Maternity Benefit Act of 1961, which increased the amaternity leave with pay protectiona from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for all women working in establishments employing 10 or more workers. This is expected to reduce the motherhood pay gap among the working mothers.

To aid migrant workers, Indiaas innovative policy 'One Nation, One Ration Card' allows migrants to access their entitled food grains from anywhere in the Public Distribution System network in the country.

We have also implemented multiple schemes to provide social security and welfare benefits while ensuring portability across states. These schemes provide for affordable housing, enhanced employability through skill development and old-age pensions to such workers.

Dawra also mentioned Indiaas landmark step in fostering inclusion in the workforce is the e-Shram portal, launched to create a national database of unorganised workers, especially migrant and construction workers.

This initiative, providing the e-Shram card, enables access to benefits under various social security schemes.

The portal allows an unorganised worker to register himself or herself on the portal on a self-declaration basis, under 400 occupations in 30 broad occupation sectors.

More than 290 million unorganised workers have been registered on this portal so far.
Bengaluru, March 27 : BJP MLC Tejaswini Gowda submitted her resignation on Thursday here ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka.

Tejaswini still had three months left as an MLC but submitted her resignation to the Chairman of Karnataka Legislative Council, Basavaraj Horatti.

In her letter, the BJP MLC said that she submitted her resignation out of her own free will and has not yet revealed her next political move.

Sources said that Tejaswini is likely to join the Congress.

However, she has not yet resigned from primary membership of the BJP.

Chairman Horatti said, "MLC Tejaswini Gowda submitted her resignation today, and it has been accepted. She still had three months left as an MLC until June. As per the rules, she can submit her resignation, but it is not compulsory to cite reasons."

Sources said that Gowda was hoping to get a BJP ticket from the Bengaluru Rural or Mysuru-Kodagu Lok Sabha constituencies.

However, BJP fielded former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda's son-in-law C.N. Manjunath from Bengaluru Rural Lok Sabha constituency, and the ticket from Mysuru-Kodagu Lok Sabha constituency was given to royal scion Yaduveer Wadiyar.

Reacting to the political development, Opposition leader R. Ashoka said that the BJP was not at all concerned with Tejaswini Gowda quitting the party.

"She (Tejaswini Gowda) was with Congress earlier and later joined the BJP. We had given her the post of an MLC. Her term is nearing its end, and she had submitted her resignation at this time," Ashoka noted.

Tejaswini Gowda had defeated former Prime Minister Deve Gowda in her first Lok Sabha election from Kanakapura (now Bengaluru Rural) Lok Sabha constituency on a Congress ticket in 2004.
Jaipur, March 27 : Congress candidate for Rajasthan's Rajsamand seat, Sudarshan Singh Rawat on Wednesday announced his refusal to contest the Lok Sabha elections and urged the party to nominate a "capable candidate" in his place.

Rawat, after returning from a foreign trip, announced his withdrawal from the election.

He also wrote to state Congress President Govind Singh Dotasara, expressing his displeasure at making him a candidate without his consent.

In his letter, he said: "In the last one month, I expressed my inability to contest the Lok Sabha elections several times to all the top leaders of the state during discussions about the Lok Sabha elections. It was my personal opinion that despite the historic development work, I do not have the moral right to contest the Lok Sabha elections just four months after the defeat in the last assembly elections and it is also not logical that I should contest the Lok Sabha elections. Nor did I have any strategic preparation regarding it."

"On the evening of 25th March, I got the news of my candidature on social media, which was a matter of surprise for me. I again request the top leadership of the Congress Party to give a chance to some capable and interested candidate in my place. This step of mine may have hurt the sentiments of my supporters, well-wishers and party leadership, for which I apologise."

After the ticket from Rajsamand was announced on March 25, Rawat did not even thank the high command on social media or give any reaction as he was travelling abroad.

Rawat had won the elections from the Bhim Assembly seat, a part of the Rajsamand constituency, in 2018 but was defeated in 2023.

His father Laxman Singh was a minister in the previous Ashok Gehlot government. His grandfather Major Fateh Singh (retd) has also been an MLA.
Jaipur, March 27 : Rajasthan Congress leader Naresh Meena on Wednesday filed his nomination as an Independent candidate from Dausas for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections to be held in the state on April 19 and April 26.

Naresh Meena, a former general secretary of the Rajasthan University students' union, rebelled after the Congress gave ticket to Murari Lal Meena from Dausa.

Naresh Meena had joined the Congress on the condition that he would be given a ticket to contest the Lok Sabha elections from Dausa. However, as soon as the ticket was given to Murari Lal Meena, Naresh Meena turned rebel and filed his nomination as an Independent nominee on Wednesday.

Stating that no one wants to contest the elections as an Independent candidate, Naresh Meena aside, "However, a person like me, who has been in politics for the past many years, has to survive to get justice. I have to do all this to keep my existence alive."

Naresh Meena, who also called Sachin Pilot his leader, has been going from door to door as part of his Kanak Dandavat Yatra.

"There is no time left, so I am not going from door to door so that people can understand me better," he said.
New Delhi: The five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice D.Y. Chandrachud during a hearing on the electoral bonds case. Image Source: IANS News

Hyderabad, March 27 : Chief Justice of India Justice D.Y. Chandrachud on Wednesday said that he feels social media exacerbates differences between people but lawyers and judges rise above the differences in the common quest for justice.

In his address after laying the foundation stone for the new Telangana High Court complex, to come up adjacent to the Prof Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University at Rajendranagar here, the CJI mentioned that lawyers belong to different ideologies, different regions, come from different cultural backgrounds, and belong to different religions.

"But the most important thing that marks out all of us lawyers is the great syncretic tradition in India which is that in the work that we do, we rise above our birthmarks which define our existence. Our birthmarks are our reason for existence but as lawyers and as judges who come from the bar, we rise above those birthmarks in the sense that our identity is universal identity which is the quest for justice in the framework of the Constitution governed by the rule of law," he said.

"In the world around us, as we find so many differences, I think technology and social media exacerbate those differences between people but something that stands out within our institution is our universality, our ability to stand with each other and our ability to pursue a common quest for justice. That is truly the hallmark of the judiciary and of the bar which is one of the richest tributaries of the judiciary in our country," he added.

The CJI noted that the high court is a public space for the contestation of ideas, values, rights, duties and obligations and above all, it represents the supremacy of the judiciary.

"The High Court represents not only a public space for contestation but also represents a public space where reason, dialogue and the art of persuasion and traditions are still valued," he said.

He termed the new High Court building a watershed in the history of Telangana.

"The dignity with which judges work and lawyers can work defines the dignity of the institution itself," he observed.

Recalling that he, as the administrative judge, worked in many district courts, he said many district courts lacked even a common washroom for young women and young women judges.

Citing the report on the state of the Indian judiciary recently put out by the Supreme Court through the Centre of Research and Planning, he said that reports show and demonstrate a significant deficit in infrastructure not merely in district judiciary but in high courts as well.

"Our judges must have a sense of belonging. They must have a sense of self-worth and lawyers must have a sense of self-worth. Creating new chambers for lawyers, creation of areas where judges and lawyers can interact, areas where young members of the bar are trained are crucial to the evolution of the institution of judiciary," he said.

CJI Chandrachud also asserted that public spaces often reflect pre-existing social inequalities in society and called for creating new infrastructure intended to reach out to the broader cross-section of society. He observed that the creation of infrastructure plays a significant role in the mainstreaming of communities and groups in society who have been traditionally excluded from the judicial process.

"We must all remember that public spaces often reflect pre-existing social inequalities in our society. Our infrastructure sometimes reflects subtle signs of exclusion, such as lack of washrooms for women, which I referred to earlier, ramps for the disabled or differently-abled, creches and lactating rooms for young mothers," he said.

The CJI said though India is a fast-growing economy and market, today there is an internet divide in the country even now as not everyone has access to the internet, not every lawyer has access to a smartphone, and not every citizen has a laptop.

He also digitally launched 32 eSewa kendras of the district judiciary of Telangana.

Supreme Court judges Justice P.S. Narasimha, Justice P.V. Sanjay Kumar, and Justice S.V. Bhatti and Telangana High Court's Chief Justice of Justice Alok Aradhe attended the event.
Jaipur, March 27 : Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot alleged on Wednesday that a helicopter carrying Congress leaders was not allowed to fly to the Bikaner Range.

Addressing the nomination filing rally of Congress candidate Govindram Meghwal from the Bikaner Lok Sabha seat, Gehlot said, aOur helicopter was stopped in Jaipur and was not permitted to fly to the Bikaner Range."

He also said that BJP candidate Arjun Ram Meghwal should get an investigation done as to why the helicopter was not allowed to fly.

"Helicopters are flying all over India for the upcoming elections, but our chopper was not allowed to fly," Gehlot said.

Meanwhile, state Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra said, "We had to come to Bikaner by car from Jaipur after our copter was denied permission to fly."

Dotasra said after the pilot refused to fly the helicopter, they rushed to Bikaner by car as thousands of party workers were waiting there.
New Delhi: Former Congress leader C.R. Kesavan addressing media after joining BJP at party headquarters in New Delhi on April 08, 2023. (Photo: IANS/Wasim Sarvar). Image Source: IANS News

Chennai, Mar 27 : Tamil Nadu BJP leader C.R. Kesavan, the great grandson of C. Rajagopalachari, the last Governor General of India, has been appointed as the national spokesperson of the party.

BJP's national general secretary Arun Singh said in a statement that party President J.P. Nadda has cleared the appointment Kesavan as the BJP national spokesperson with immediate effect.

Kesavan joined the BJP in April 2023 after resigning from the Congress citing ideological reasons.

An engineer by profession, Kesavan had said while joining the BJP that though he gets identified with his lineage, he is not a aParivarvadi' (dynast).
United Nations, March 28 : Kamal Kishore, the head of India's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), has been appointed UN Assistant Secretary-General with the disaster risk reduction portfolio.

"Kishore brings to the position nearly three decades of experience in disaster risk reduction, climate action and sustainable development at the global, regional, national and local levels, having worked in government, the United Nations and civil society organisations," Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday while making the announcement.

In addition to his rank as an Assistant Secretary-General, Kishore will also be the Secreary-General's Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction heading the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).

He succeeds Mami Mizutori of Japan.

Dujarric said, "As part of India's Group of 20 (G20) presidency, he led the G20 Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction and contributed to the development of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, launched by the Prime Minister of India (Narendra Modi) at the Climate Action Summit in 2019."

Kishore, who as the head of NDMA has the rank of secretary to the government, joined the organisation in 2015.

The Geneva-headquartered UNDRR describes its mission as providing "leadership and support to accelerate global efforts in disaster risk reduction to achieve inclusive sustainable development and the goal of the Sendai Framework with the vision of a world where disaster risks no longer threaten the well-being of people and the future of the planet".

UNDRR says it has a " nimble work team of around 120 staff members" and five regional offices around the world.

Kishore is an architect by profession, obtaining his bachelor's degree from the Indian Institute of Technology at Roorkee.

He also has a masters in urban planning, land and housing development from the Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok.

He joins another Indian, Atul Khare, the under-secretary-general for operational support, at the senior management group, the upper echelon of the UN hierarchy, where Pramilla Patten, who is of Indian origin from Mauritius also serves as the special representative on sexual violence in conflict.

Of Kishore's three decades of experience in disaster management and risk reduction, 13 of them were with the UN in New Delhi, Geneva and New York.

As the UN Development Programme's regional advisor for South and South-West Asia, he provided support to "more than 10 countries on a range of public policy and institutional development issues, while also advising them on the use of appropriate risk reduction tools and methodologies", according to the NDMA.

He has also helped recovery efforts after major disasters in Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Iran, Myanmar, Pakistan, the Philippines and Sri Lanka, his NDMA profile said.

In India during the Uttarkashi earthquake in 1991 and the Latur earthquake in 1993, he worked with the Action Research Unit for Development (TARU) on post-disaster reconstruction and resettlement.

Before joining the UNDP, Kishore was the director of Information and Research, and the manager of the Extreme Climate Events Programme covering Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam at the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre head-quartered in Bangkok.

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis)
Author Paul Yoon won the 20th annual Story Prize for his latest short story collection, The Hive and the Honey (Marysue Rucci/S&S), at a ceremony held March 26 at the Lotos Club in New York City. The award comes with a $20,000 top prize, with $5,000 awarded to two finalists, and is sponsored by the Chisholm Foundation.

This year's finalists were Yiyun Li, for Wednesdays Child (FSG), and Bennett Sims, for Other Minds and Other Stories (Two Dollar Radio). The three finalists were selected by Story Prize director Larry Dark and founder Julie Lindsey from 113 submissions, and three independent judgescritic and writer Merve Emre, librarian Allison Escoto, and writer Tania Jamesselected the winner.

The Hive and The Honey is a collection of astonishing breadth, offering a panoramic portrait of Korean diaspora, of lives rescued from the margins of history. These characters reveal themselves most acutely through intimate gestures, moments that infuse the ordinary with lasting wonder and could only be achieved by a writer as patient, curious, and masterful as Paul Yoon, the judges wrote in their citation. The genius of the collection lies in its steadiness of styleYoon's prose is quiet and fine and, at times, painfully preciseand its variety of genre. Domestic realism sits alongside folk tales, ghost stories, and imperial histories. The present is haunted by the past, and the past is violently and beautifully summoned in the present.

The Hive and the Honey is Yoons fifth book of fiction and his third short story collection. In its review, PW called The Hive and the Honey "a lean collection of stories featuring restless, complex characters driven by their need for connection and forgiveness" and "an elegant exploration of lifes brutal and beautiful moments."

This year was the third time the Story Prize has been held as a private ceremony at the Lotos Club, after launching at Symphony Space in 2004 and running at the New School for the following 16 years. (In 2021, the ceremony was held remotely due to Covid restrictions.) Giving some of the history of the prize, Dark noted that one reason the Story Prize stands out was the decision that "the judges would not all be fiction writers; instead, we would include a bookseller or librarian, critics, book bloggers, academics, literary magazine editors, and others alongside writer judges each year." Recently, he added, "other book awards have adopted a similar approach." Twenty years in, it remains among the most significant monetary prizes in American fiction.

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In an emotional acceptance speech, Yoon generously thanked Dark for being a champion and the number one boss of the short story for decades, and added: to Yiyun and Bennett, that "to be here with you both is such a gift. Yiyun, it's impossible to truly express how much we look up to you, and love you so much. Thank you for your genius and kindness. (Li blurbed both Yoons and Simss nominated books.)

Yoon noted that the Oxford shirt he wore during the ceremony was in tribute to his first boss in the publishing business, the late Russell Perrault of Vintage Books, who introduced him to the stories of such authors as Ann Beatty, Richard Gates, and Alice Munro. "He'd let me take whatever stories I wanted" from the Vintage backlist library, Yoon said, "and then he'd sneak me up the back stairs, where we'd enter the contrails of Sonny Mehta's beautiful cigarette smokeit's like we'd enter some upper level of heavenand this is where I was covertly introduced to the old Pantheon paperbacks," including works by such writers as Thomas Bernhard, Julio Cortazar, and John Berger.

"I really believe I'm where I am today, as an artist in whatever style or creative vision I've devoted myself to, in part because Russell opened the doors to these incredible libraries," Yoon said, "and gave me access to both the North American writers and the writers from all over the world."

Asked, in conversation with Dark, how he arrives at his spare style of prose, Yoon admitted, "I don't know if I'm aware of it. That's my honest answer. Yiyun [Li] was talking about this...how she learned from [author William] Trevor. I for sure learned from Trevor too, and maybe his minimalistic quality rubbed off on me in some way."

In response to Dark's question about his books varied geographiesSpain, Russia, KoreaYoon said, "I was very far from home during lockdown, so one way to make myself feel better was, I would imagine a map of where all the people that I love are. That got me thinking about, where are these family members I've never met? Where are they, where were they? That became the canvas."
Simon & Schusters Paula Wiseman Books imprint is set to release Willow the White House Cat, a new picture book from First Lady Jill Biden. Cowritten with Alyssa Satin Capucilli, and illustrated by Kate Berube, Willow the White House Cat will publish on June 4.

The picture book follows the titular felines transition from living in a barn to residing in an iconic American house. As Willow adjusts to her new home, she finds new places to play and interesting staff members who are busy with their jobs but always make time to welcome her.

First Lady Jill Biden has created a heartwarming picture book with Willow the White House Cat, said Jon Anderson, president and publisher of Simon & Schuster Childrens Publishing, in a statement. Readers young and old will enjoy this fun glimpse into Willows life in the White House, and the message that being open to new friendships can sometimes surprise you, is one that is sure to resonate with families everywhere.

The tale is inspired by the Biden familys real pet, American tabby cat Willow (named after Bidens hometown of Willow Grove, Pa.), and her reception by the White House staff upon her arrival. They welcomed Willow with love and care, just as they did Joe and me, the First Families who came before us, and all of the people who step foot into this home, Jill Biden said. Making many new friends along the way, Willows journey gives the world a cats-eye view of all the ins and outs of Americas most famous address.

Willow the White House Cat will be edited by Paula Wiseman; Mollie Glick and David M. Larabell at Creative Artists Agency represented Biden and Lori Kikelly at LK Literary Agency represented Berube in the deal for world rights. This marks the First Ladys third childrens book with Simon & Schuster, following Dont Forget, God Bless Our Troops and Joey: The Story of Joe Biden.
What started as a solo, self-published picture book in 2021 has transformed into a childrens indie publisher with an emphasis on social justice and a goal of six books per year. Los Angeles-based Gloo Books, a direct-to-consumer company founded by attorney Karen Chan, is a space for BIPOC educators and influencers to write educational, diverse books for young readers. In addition to Chan, Gloos staffers are editor Alexandria Scott-Christensen and sales and marketing lead Olivia Butze.

In its third year, Gloos publications include a series of Baby Go! international travel board books; a Very Asian Guides global food series inspired by journalist Michelle Lis Very Asian Foundation and hashtag; and the informational picture book Composting for Community, written by LA Compost founder and executive director Michael Martinez, with illustrations by Hannah Abbo. Gloos catalog leans toward nonfiction, including A Life of Song: The Story of Ella Jenkins, in which music scholar Ty-Juana Taylor and illustrator Jade Johnson profiles the popular childrens folk musician.

This September, Gloo will release Calling All Future Voters!, a picture book co-written by Advancement Project organizer Jennifer Lai-Peterson, NAACP board of directors v-p Eddie Hailes, and former Lee & Low editor Laura Atkins, author of two books in Heyday Books Fighting for Justice series. We started this book about two years ago, Chan said, calling it a timely work of fiction about a squad of kids doing community service around voting rights and registration. The book dives into the history of who has fought for inclusion, who can vote, and why voting is still closed off to some communities, she said.

Diversifying childrens literature is my personal motivation, Chan said, noting that Gloo intends to create culturally competent books by authors who come from the communities they write about and even featuring QR codes that direct to source material on language and pronunciation. That commitment has created word-of-mouth, she said. From the get-go, we started receiving submissions, and people contacted us to say, I have a book idea. If I had all the money in the world, I would be moving at lightning speed, getting those ideas published.

From Whats That? to an International Menu

In November 2021, Chan published Whats That?, illustrated by Basia Tran, a picture book about a Chinese American boy who dishes with a friend about his bring-to-school box lunch. The picture book was created as an introduction to, and reinforcement of, diverse food options for children, and Chan had her own young son in mind as an audience. But in the process, she said, I learned about traditional publishing, and it sparked the idea of building a larger company. While printing, marketing, and distributing Whats That?, the light bulb went off: maybe theres an opportunity here to provide a platform for other authors, other storytellers. Chan named her company Gloo, an allusion to the glue in the binding of a book and the way literacy brings people together.

Although publishing is a recent occupation for Chan, she sees it as an extension of the inclusive values she prioritized in her legal career. While working in mergers and acquisitions at a law firm, she did pro bono work with asylum seekers. In an earlier role with a nonprofit organization, she worked on immigration issues. The transactional stuff [of business law] obviously has some relevance, to the extent that publishing is a negotiation of intellectual property, she said, but she only practices law part-time these days: I guess you could consider it my side hustle.

Being an outsider to publishing helped Chan think differently about getting books to readers. Theres so much technology and social media available to hyper-target certain audiences, she said. Thats even more the case with respect to people who have been traditionally underrepresented in mainstream media. Gloos orders result from ads on social media, outreach to library systems and schools, and booths at literary events like the Los Angeles Times Book Fair and the Bay Area Book Festival. Chan also arranged a book launch for three of the Very Asian Guides at Yu and Me Books, her friend Lucy Yus bookstore in New York Citys Chinatown.

Rather than work with a distributor, Gloo Books uses a third-party warehouse and fulfillment center in Northern California for both direct-to-consumer and B2B business. Bookstores, gift shops, and novelty retailers make 10-unit minimum orders and receive a 50% wholesale discount. (For now, single copies of Gloo publications may be found on the companys website and major online retailers, but not yet on Bookshop.org.)

Gloo promises a similar royalty to traditional publishers and supports authors with a strong marketing and PR budget, Chan explained. But she believes that authors choose to work with Gloo on principle, not necessarily for financial gain: I actually think the incentive for people to work with us is our mission. They want to be part of creating change for future generations.
French author-illustrator Laurent de Brunhoff, acclaimed for carrying on the legacy of beloved character Babar the elephant, first illustrated by his father Jean, died on March 22 at his home in Key West, Fla., following complications from a stroke. He was 98.

Laurent de Brunhoff was born August 25, 1925, in Paris, France, the eldest son of artistically accomplished parents Jean, a painter, and Cecile, a pianist. Laurents early years were an essential part of the familiar Babar origin story. Laurent was five years old, and his brother Mathieu four, when their mother made up a favorite bedtime adventure about a baby elephant who was dramatically orphaned in the great forest and found his way to the city. We were so excited about the story, and we told our father about it, de Brunhoff told PW in a 2000 interview.

My father was an Impressionist painter, de Brunhoff recalled. I think he discovered himself as an artist creating these books. He wanted my mothers name on the title page, and she said, No, Im sure youre going to do more books by yourself. And thats exactly what happened. Father invented the name Babar, he invented the old lady [who takes Babar in, in the books], who was not part of the original story my mother told, De Brunhoff said. He enjoyed himself so much thats how he started to work on the whole series.

By the end of 1930, Jean de Brunhoff had fashioned a picture book dummy for the family to enjoy, featuring Babar transforming into a nattily dressed (in his signature green suit and derby hat), automobile-driving gent introduced to the finer things in life by the kind, wealthy old lady before he returns to the great forest and is crowned King. And in 1931, de Brunhoffs brother-in-law Lucien Vogel, who was publisher of fashion magazine Le jardin des modes, facilitated the official publication of The Story of Babar, the Little Elephant via an arm of publishing company Conde Nast. It was published in the U.S. by Louise Bonino Williams at Smith & Haas (acquired by Random House in 1936) in 1933. That debut was an immediate hit in France and a second volume was soon underway.

Laurent de Brunhoff was already fond of drawing at a young age, and he spent more and more time doing it while he had a front-row seat to his fathers creation of six Babar books in quick succession. Babar was always there, he told PW, of his childhood years. My father started to make the second book, Travels with Babar, the year after The Story of Babar; the year after that, Babar the King. Each year there was another title, another story. Babar was a brother, also a friend to my brother and me.

In October 1937, 12-year-old Laurent experienced a devastating loss when his father Jean died of tuberculosis at the age of 37. World War II began shortly after that, and Laurent finished high school in Paris. In 1944, he rented a studio in the Montparnasse area of the city and began to study painting with his fathers teacher. At the same time, I was playing with the idea of Babar, to go on with the story of my brother and friend, he told PW. His mother Cecile had already turned down several offers from publishers to do the same. Mother had refused the idea of someone else carrying on the idea, de Brunhoff said. But of course with me she was delighted. So, I came up with the idea of Arthur, the cousin, who was close to my age. The first of de Brunhoffs own books about the lovable elephant, Babars Cousin: That Rascal Arthur, was published in France in 1946 and then by Random House in the U.S. in 1948 to great success.

In 1951, de Brunhoff married Marie-Claude Bloch, who would become a scout in Paris for Putnam. The couple had two children, who served as inspiration for a boy and a girl character introduced in 1957s Babar and the Professor.

De Brunhoff approached his work as a picture-book creator with reverence, and, also with the desire to put his stamp on things. At first I found it very hard to get exactly the same elephant design as my father, he told PW in 1968. But after a while I got it pretty well, although I can still see the difference. And even as Laurents original tales greatly expanded Babars worldtaking the pachyderm protagonist to Bird Island, America, and Another Planetdeep inside there is the same philosophy, the same love, the same understanding of each other, he said.

By the 1970s Random House had become de Brunhoffs primary publisher. This era also saw Babar move beyond the printed page to adorn various licensed products and media adaptations including the animated NBC-TV specials The Story of Babar (1968) and Babar Comes to America (1971), narrated by Peter Ustinov and produced by Lee Mendelson/Bill Melendez Productions. De Brunhoff supervised the U.S. television projects and wrote the screenplays.

De Brunhoff moved to the U.S. in 1985 as his first marriage ended, and settled in Middletown, Conn. with Wesleyan professor and writer Phyllis Rose, whom he had met in Paris, and they married in 1990. De Brunhoff and Rose collaborated on numerous Babar texts over the years. In 1987 he broadened Babars world yet again with the introduction of the elephants daughter, Isabelle, in Babars Little Girl (Random House). For much of the 1990s, de Brunhoff stepped away from childrens books and went back to his abstract painting. But the publishing hiatus came to an end when de Brunhoff came upon the idea for a new Babar adventure during a camping trip in Yosemite. That book would become Babar and the Succotash Bird (2000), his first of many projects with Howard Reeves, then founding publisher of the newly launched Abrams Books for Young Readers division.

In all, de Brunhoff wrote and illustrated more than 45 books starring Babarwhich have been translated into more than 18 languages and have sold millions of copies around the worldas well as several other titles including a trio of books in the 1960s featuring Serafina the Giraffe. In a 1961 PW interview, de Brunhoff was asked why he thought young readers loved the Babar books so much. [It may be due to] the compromise they offer between the everyday life of children and the world of fantasy, he said. Upon the release of Succotash, he reflected on what it was like to take up his fathers mantle. To be able to understand the world of Babar and to be able to go on with it, for this world to live forever, has been the most pleasurable part, he told PW. The challenge of being faithful to my father was not a burden for me. After a few years, Babar was my own. I adore my fathers books. I think hes a genius. But Im totally at ease with Babar. The challenge is my desire to be perfect.

Reeves, now editor at large at Abrams Books for Young Readers and Amulet, who worked with de Brunhoff for nearly 20 years, shared this remembrance: I first met Laurent when I purchased his new book Succotash Bird as well as his backlist. Working closely with Laurent and later with his wife, we began reissuing two Babar backlist books a season, in a slightly edited format. We produced the backlist books from the original art, treating them with all the love and enthusiasm we always have with any new title. In almost all cases the art still existed and was in Laurents possession.

I have missed working with him over the past few years. His last book was Babars Guide to Paris, in 2017. A fitting tribute to a man and his friend in the legendary green suit, who first met in the City of Light. They brought joy, humor, and warmth into so many lives, in so many countries, for so many, many years.

And Jason M. Wells, former publicist and marketing director at Abrams Books for Young Readers, came to call de Brunhoff a good friend over their 16-year professional relationship. When Laurent brought Babar to Abrams in the early 2000s, he saw himself as a fine artist and a yoga devotee, he said. That was reflected in the books he crafted and his marketing activities. Some of the finest museums in the country hosted packed book signings with him, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Art Institute in Chicago, and San Francisco MoMA. The French consulate in New York hosted an epic party for Laurent and Babar during a BookExpo. Babars new adventures reflected some of Laurents passions, which brought him a different kind of professional success that he found very satisfying. It was a magical time to be working with him.
Purdue University researchers are developing and validating patent-pending nanoparticles (left) to enhance immunotherapy effects against tumors. The nanoparticles are modified with adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, to recruit dendritic cells (right), which are immune cells that recognize tumor antigens and bring specialized immune cells to fight off tumors. (Images provided by Yoon Yeo)

PLGA nanoparticles modified with ATP slowly release anti-cancer drugs and recruit immune cells to fight tumors

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  Purdue University researchers are developing and validating patent-pending poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid), or PLGA, nanoparticles modified with adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, to enhance immunotherapy effects against malignant tumors.

The nanoparticles slowly release drugs that induce immunogenic cell death, or ICD, in tumors. ICD generates tumor antigens and other molecules to bring immune cells to a tumors microenvironment. The researchers have attached ATP to the nanoparticles, which also recruits immune cells to the tumor to initiate anti-tumor immune responses.

Yoon Yeo leads a team of researchers from the College of Pharmacy, the Metabolite Profiling Facility in the Bindley Bioscience Center, and the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research to develop the nanoparticles. Yeo is the associate department head and Lillian Barboul Thomas Professor of Industrial and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Biomedical Engineering; she is also a member of the Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery and the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research.

The researchers validated their work using paclitaxel, a chemotherapy drug used to treat several types of cancers. They found that tumors grew slower in mice treated with paclitaxel enclosed within ATP-modified nanoparticles than in mice treated with paclitaxel in non-modified nanoparticles.

When combined with an existing immunotherapy drug, the ATP-modified, paclitaxel-loaded nanoparticles eliminated tumors in mice and protected them from rechallenge with tumor cells, Yeo said.

The research has been published in the peer-reviewed journal ACS Nano.

Challenges to systemic immunotherapy delivery

Immunotherapy is a promising approach to fighting cancer, but Yeo said it does not benefit a large population of patients because they do not have the powerful immune cells needed to combat tumors.

Pharmacological agents to activate immune cells can directly be given to tumors, Yeo said. Then the immune system can fight not only the treated tumors but also nontreated tumors in distant locations as the activated immune cells circulate in the bloodstream.

However, Yeo said most tumors with poor prognoses are not always locatable or accessible. Therefore, they may not be effectively treated by local therapy. She and her team envisioned systemic delivery of immunotherapy, but there are challenges.

For successful systemic administration, active ingredients that stimulate anti-tumor immune responses need to be simultaneously present in tumors to exert concerted effects on the target, Yeo said. The ingredients also must maintain their activity until they reach tumors, but not cause toxic off-target effects. Moreover, the carriers traditionally used in local drug delivery offer limited utility in systemic application because they may not be compatible with blood components.

Yeo and her colleagues used biocompatible polymeric nanoparticles to deliver immunotherapy compounds and modified them to safely activate the immune system.

We employed poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid), or PLGA, nanoparticles based on the strong track record of the polymer in FDA-approved products and its routine use in the systemic delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs, Yeo said.

Tests verified the ATP-modified PLGA nanoparticles were well tolerated in mice upon multiple systemic injections. They were able to recruit dendritic cells, the immune cells that recognize tumor antigens and bring specialized immune cells to fight off tumors.

Moreover, the nanoparticles were shown to control the release of paclitaxel to minimize its systemic toxicity, Yeo said.

The next development steps

Yeo and her colleagues will continue their work on the ATP-modified nanoparticles.

We are currently working on improving the delivery of the nanoparticles to tumors and combining them with other treatments that will circumvent the resistance to the nanoparticle-delivered immunotherapy, Yeo said. To finance these efforts, we will apply for continued support from the National Institutes of Health. We are also open to industry partnerships to take this technology to the clinic.

Yeo disclosed the nanoparticles innovation to the Purdue Innovates Office of Technology Commercialization, which has applied for a patent from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to protect the intellectual property. Industry partners interested in developing the compound or commercializing it for the marketplace should contact Joe Kasper, assistant director of business development and licensing  life sciences, at jrkasper@prf.org, about track code 69546.

Yeo and the research team received funding from the National Institutes of Health, the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, the Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, and the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research.

About Purdue University

Purdue University is a public research institution demonstrating excellence at scale. Ranked among top 10 public universities and with two colleges in the top four in the United States, Purdue discovers and disseminates knowledge with a quality and at a scale second to none. More than 105,000 students study at Purdue across modalities and locations, including nearly 50,000 in person on the West Lafayette campus. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdues main campus has frozen tuition 13 years in a row. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap  including its first comprehensive urban campus in Indianapolis, the new Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business, and Purdue Computes  at https://www.purdue.edu/president/strategic-initiatives.

About Purdue Innovates Office of Technology Commercialization

The Purdue Innovates Office of Technology Commercialization operates one of the most comprehensive technology transfer programs among leading research universities in the U.S. Services provided by this office support the economic development initiatives of Purdue University and benefit the universitys academic activities through commercializing, licensing and protecting Purdue intellectual property. In fiscal year 2023, the office reported 150 deals finalized with 203 technologies signed, 400 disclosures received and 218 issued U.S. patents. The office is managed by the Purdue Research Foundation, which received the 2019 Innovation & Economic Prosperity Universities Award for Place from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. In 2020, IPWatchdog Institute ranked Purdue third nationally in startup creation and in the top 20 for patents. The Purdue Research Foundation is a private, nonprofit foundation created to advance the mission of Purdue University. Contact otcip@prf.org for more information.

Writer/Media contact: Steve Martin, sgmartin@prf.org

Source: Yoon Yeo, yyeo@purdue.edu
Chicken wings, for most of us, taste like hot sauce and butter. They are simply hot, medium or mild. If it aint broke

But who isnt a little curious when a menu has something unconventional, like cheese powder-coated wings? Or lavender wings? Is it even possible for a wing to taste like a flower?

The wing sauce monopoly  hot, medium, mild, barbecue and garlic parm  can make a little room for experimental flavors  as long as none of them are served with ranch.

I tried a handful of the most unusual chicken wing flavors offered in Buffalo. The verdict? Seriously, try the PB&J wings. Trust me. (But Id eat any of the wings on this list again.)

All dressed wings at Belt Line Brewery

545 Swan St.

Life doesnt feel all that different across the border in Canada. The trees look the same. The people sound the same (with some notable exceptions, eh?). But the gas stations carry different snacks, including All Dressed potato chips, which are dusted in a compilation of salt and vinegar, ketchup, sour cream and onion and barbecue.

Luckily, theres no need to deal with Peace Bridge traffic to try All Dressed wings. At Larkinvilles Belt Line Brewery, theyre the most popular wing flavor, according to manager Michael Crosier.

All Dressed wings are tangy, salty and a little sour, in a similar puckering way to salt and vinegar chips. And theyre addictive, like a potato chip or sour Skittle.

The wings are fried, tossed in the brewerys staple hickory barbecue sauce, charred, then tossed again in a blend of secret spices. Crosier wouldnt reveal the spice blends specific ingredients but said it includes salt and vinegar.

In a competitive chicken wing scene, Belt Line innovates out of necessity, Crosier said. The brewerys kitchen staff brainstorms a new flavor of the week every Tuesday, which they roll out on Wednesdays. Past experimentations have included dill pickle and wings adorned in edible gold flakes.

We can never have too many wing sauces, Crosier said. Each week its more of a challenge. Who can make the best sauce?

Beef on weck wings at Doc Sullivans

474 Abbott Road

Its simple math, really. Like two plus two equals four, Buffalos most iconic dish plus its second most iconic dish equals beef on weck chicken wings.

Doc Sullivans, an Irish pub in South Buffalo, gets credit for creating and solving that equation. Legend has it the wings were devised one year for Wing Fest and have stuck around ever since.

An order of beef on weck wings will clear your sinuses, thanks to the pungent horseradish in which the wings are drenched. Aside from giving the dish the signature kimmelweck roll look, the combination of kosher salt and caraway seeds contribute a sharp, earthy, anise-like flavor.

Dipping the wings in blue cheese isnt required to complete the dish in any way, nor does it negate the flavors.

Cheesling wings at bb.q Chicken

1424 Millersport Highway, Amherst

Bb.q Chicken is an international Korean fried chicken chain with a franchise in Amherst whose wings were too unusual not to include. Its cheesling wings are for cheese powder lovers, and cheese powder lovers only.

Not to be confused with people who love real cheese, though the two categories arent mutually exclusive, cheese powder lovers enjoy the following foods: Cheetos, Doritos, white cheddar-coated popcorn and Kraft macaroni and cheese.

All available chicken wing surface area is coated in pale, yellow cheese powder, a form of dehydrated cheese, which doesnt taste like cheese in the traditional sense of the word. Sent down from corporate, bb.q Chickens secret cheese powder has its own artificial flavor that can only be described as cheese-inspired.

Tender chicken slides off the bone easily, its crispy, glazed skin tethering to the sweet cheese dust like fried dough adheres to powdered sugar. The powder melts into the wings, so though the wings are powdery, they arent dry.

Cheese powder is a more popular fried chicken flavor in Korean cuisine and its a bestseller at bb.q Chickens Amherst location, manager Rae Cho said.

Just be warned: If you dont like cheese powder, there would be no reason for you to enjoy these wings. But if youre curious, all you need is a little faith, trust and cheese dust.

Peanut butter and jelly wings, plus lavender wings at Dalmatia Hotel

1187 Tonawanda St., Tonawanda

You could try a new wing flavor at the Dalmatia Hotel every week for a year.

The Dalmatia Hotel  a neighborhood tavern, not an actual hotel  has a menu of 57 wing flavors. There are the usual suspects plus some real oddballs, such as the peanut butter and jelly wings.

If peanut butter and jelly stuffed between soggy sandwich bread can endure as a lunchtime staple, and can make its way onto most craft burger menus, then why shouldnt it work as a chicken wing? After all, chicken and peanut is already a popular combination in Chinese food.

Tossed in a fruity sauce of jelly, raspberry vinaigrette and six pepper seasoning, the wings are showered in creamy peanut butter before serving. Messy, sweet and crispy, they taste as much like dessert as dinner (kind of like doughnuts for breakfast). Former Dalmatia Hotel chef Dominic Gatti came up with the PB&J recipe around seven years ago while experimenting in the kitchen, said owner Theia Moyer.

It was difficult to decide if PB&J was a stranger flavor than another Dalmatia Hotel favorite, lavender wings. Unlike other fruity wing flavors, such as Loganberry or raspberry, the lavender wings werent mixed with a barbecue base. Theyre dry rubbed in an aromatic mixture of lavender, herbes de Provence, salt and oil, making them floral and fresh, but not soapy, as lavender-infused foods can tend to be.

Those are my personal favorite, Moyer said. You feel like youre having a roast chicken. Its real comforting.

Swing cacciatore wings at Swings Specialty Wings

2280 Fillmore Ave.

Plenty of flavors stick out on the Swings Specialty Wings menu  Buffalo strawberry, with real pieces of strawberry in the sauce, and a chili dog-like Peruvian chili  but the Italian red sauce-inspired Swing cacciatore wings are probably its most creative.

Swings, located in a nondescript house converted into a restaurant in the Leroy neighborhood, will try to make any flavor you request, as long as you give owner Kobie Lewis a little notice and a lot of creative license.

If you can describe it to us, well give our best effort to make it, Lewis said.

I dont think I would have been able to come up with something as inventive as Swing cacciatore.

Like most of these flavors, Swing cacciatore makes sense. Chicken is already a central figure of chicken cacciatore, a traditional Italian braise of chicken, tomatoes and vegetables. The Swing cacciatore wings are crispy and coated in a thick, homemade marinara sauce, with visible green flakes of oregano and Parmesan cheese. Red sauce fans will enjoy them.
Federal charges were filed Friday against a South Carolina suspect accused of fatally shooting a New Mexico State Police officer from Logan. If convicted of the more serious charge, the suspect faces up to life in prison or the death penalty.

More details about the killing and the suspects capture also were revealed during the news conference and a federal complaint filed by the U.S. Attorneys Office in Albuquerque.

Jaremy Smith, 33, was federally charged with carjacking resulting in death and discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

The carjacking change could carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment or death.

With the firearms offense, Smith could face a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison. There would be no possibility of parole.

Smith is accused of fatally shooting NMSP officer Justin Hare, 35, on March 15 west of Tucumcari on Interstate 40 after Hare stopped to assist the motorist with a flat tire. According to the complaint, Smith then stole Hares police vehicle and later left the officer for dead on a frontage road.

Smith was apprehended two days after in Albuquerque after being shot by Bernalillo County sheriffs deputies during a foot pursuit. Smith was taken to a hospital and treated for his wounds. Smith made an initial appearance in federal court on Friday, and he faces a detention hearing on March 26.

We are one community, and the loss of one is a loss to us all, U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez stated during an announcement of the charges on Friday. Never forget that this tragedy was bookended by hope  by strangers doing the right thing for people theyve never met.

Thank you to New Mexico State Police, Quay County Sheriffs Office, the Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office and all our local partners for their tireless work this week. Your partners in federal law enforcement stand with you today and always.

We stand side-by-side with our federal and law enforcement partners to bring the fullest measure of justice to Officer Hare and his family, New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez. We will commit every resource available to this prosecution and hold Mr. Jaremy Smith accountable for his reprehensible actions.

Timothy Rose, 10th Judicial District Attorney, said he assigned the states case against Smith to the attorney general. Rose said he expected state charges will be filed and prosecuted subsequent to the federal charges.

According to federal court documents, on the morning of March 15, Hare stopped to assist a disabled motorist on I-40 west of Tucumcari. The motorist, later identified as Smith, left the drivers side of the car and approached the passenger window of Hares patrol vehicle.

Hare did not leave the patrol vehicle as he talked to Smith and offered to drive him a ride back to Tucumcari.

After a short discussion, Hare asked Smith to walk to the front of the patrol vehicle. Instead, Smith shot Hare, who slumped to the right in the drivers seat, according to dashcam footage in Hares vehicle.

Smith moved to the drivers side of the patrol vehicle and shot Hare two more times. Smith then drove away in the police vehicle with Hare still inside.

About five minutes after Hare arrived in front of Smiths car, the police vehicles distress system was activated. In response, backup police units were sent to the area.

Responding officers found Hares crashed patrol vehicle near mile marker 304 on the north frontage road of I-40. Hare was found nearby with gunshot wounds to the head and neck. He was transported to Trigg Memorial Hospital in Tucumcari, where he died of his injuries. Two 9 mm shell casings and several bullets were found in the patrol vehicle.

The car that Smith drove was registered to a South Carolina paramedic who had been reported missing and later found dead with a possible gunshot wound to the head. The paramedics roommate discovered they were missing a 9 mm handgun. Smith remains a person of interest in the paramedics death.

Officers found two cellphones and a first-responder jacket about mile west of the crash site. One of the cellphones belonged to a woman whose identity was known to the FBI because Albuquerque police responded to the domestic violence call on Feb. 27 involving her and Smith. According to police body-cam footage from the domestic call, Smith wore a similar jacket to the one he wore while shooting Hare.

On March 17, Smith went to a gas station in Albuquerque. The clerk checked Smiths identification card and recognized the distinct spelling of his first name. The clerk contacted law enforcement, and sheriffs deputies and state police went to the area to investigate.

Officers found Smith, and he tried to flee on foot. Sheriffs deputies pursued Smith, who reached for his waistband as they approached, according to deputies body-cam footage. The deputies fired their guns, striking Smith, who was taken into custody and given medical aid. A 9 mm handgun was recovered near where Smith was apprehended.

Officers later determined Smith had stolen a flatbed truck from the Cuervo area about 13 miles west of the crash site. Officers recovered the truck in Albuquerque and found 9 mm ammunition inside. State police had put out a bulletin about the possible suspect being spotted in the Cuervo area on March 16, the day after the shooting.

The affidavit noted Smith had been arrested 13 times in South Carolina for various offenses, including two felony convictions for armed robbery and taking of a hostage by an inmate.

I am grateful for all the assistance and support my agency has received from our local and federal law enforcement partners in bringing the man accused of killing Officer Justin Hare to justice, New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler said. Our hearts continue to go out to the family and friends of Officer Hare, and we hope that the capture and prosecution of Smith will bring them closer to peace and closure.

The FBI Albuquerque Field Office and New Mexico State Police investigated the case with assistance from the 10th Judicial District Attorneys Office in Tucumcari and the Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Mysliwiec and Jack Burkhead are prosecuting the case.
Recent leadership turmoil in the New Mexico Route 66 Association has prompted the removal of a museum from a multimillion-dollar project planned in Tucumcari by the Fast TV Network.

Principals from the Fast TV Network announced in October 2022 it would move from Albuquerque into the vacant Kmart building in Tucumcari and convert it into an $8 million television and movie production facility, plus a New Mexico Route 66 Association museum and welcome center.

During the news conference to announce the project, Fast TV said it would hold a soft opening of the Tucumcari facility on July 1, 2023. Mike Lee, Fast TVs president and CEO, said at the time the company was under contract to close on the purchase of the property.

July 1 came and went, with the association several times announcing delays to the project.

During a award presentation last month in Tucumcari by then-New Mexico Route 66 Association President and Fast TV co-owner and Vice President Melissa Beasley-Lee, she attributed the delays to surveying issues on the Kmart property.

According to the Quay County Assessors Office, the Kmart property remains owned by Matthew Villalobos of Rio Rancho. He has owned it since October 2020.

Other problems surfaced during a regular meeting earlier this month of the New Mexico Route 66 Association.

Johnnie Meier, a former president and current longtime member of the associations board of directors, said in a phone interview Friday that president Beasley-Lee and Lee, a member of the board of directors, were confronted about irregularities regarding the association.

Meier said Lee and Beasley-Lee announced their resignations from the association, and each also submitted resignation letters that would go into effect if certain conditions were not met. The associations board didnt accept the conditions and accepted the resignations.

Meier, owner of the Classical Gas Museum in Embudo, said in response to the turmoil that his partnership with the Fast TV Network to move his gas-station memorabilia collection into Tucumcaris Kmart building as part of a New Mexico Route 66 Association museum and welcome center was off the table.

Its a messy situation, Meier said.

Beasley-Lee, contacted by email, declined to answer several questions, including whether she and Lee would continue to set up a Fast TV Network production studio in Tucumcari.

Vickie Ashcraft, elected president of the association in the wake of Beasley-Lees apparent resignation, said in a phone interview it was difficult to see how the association also could set up a welcome center in the Kmart building, given the circumstances.

Ashcraft said she was reluctant to give more details because she and other board members had been served a cease-and-desist letter by Albuquerque attorney Blair Dunn on behalf of the Lees.

Ashcraft instead referred to the associations letter to members that was posted on Facebook several days before.

We have much work to be done and will not continue to waste time on ethical matters that may have happened previously, the letter states. There has been a great deal of resistance to our acceptance of Melissa Lees resignation but the rationale behind the action is of significant gravity. At present, we will abstain from divulging specific details as potential litigation may ensue.

The letter stated the action was taken to protect the interests of the Route 66 community and our Association.

It stated the association does not have control of several assets, including its website. It also noted a fake Facebook page purporting to be the associations page was set up recently.

It is imperative to clarify that henceforth, any statements made by Mrs. Melissa Beasley Lee or Mr. Mike Lee do not represent the view of the Route 66 Association of New Mexico, the letter concluded.

The association recently received a $50,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The association stated in a news release the funds would be used to help restore neon signs in Tucumcari that were damaged in a hailstorm last May.

Meier said that news release was not authorized by the association and disputed part of its accuracy.

Meier said funds would be primarily used to produce three videos on do-it-yourself methods to repair neon signs.

He said because of turmoil in the association, such a project might be delayed, but it would proceed.

The association is committed to following through on the videos, he said. We have the manpower. The whole country, not just Route 66, could benefit from it.
On this date ...

1974: Carolyn French of Nara Visa will become of the second woman to earn a civil engineering degree from New Mexico State University.

If French, who graduated from Logan High School, elects to attend one more semester at NMSU, she will graduate with a double major  the other field being economics.

French also pledged to the Chi Epsilon fraternity, which requires engineering studies to become a member.

 Traffic deaths in the U.S. had fallen by one-third to a half so far this year, which officials attributed to the newly implemented 55 mph speed limit to save energy, according to a UPI survey.

However, California lawmakers were pressuring officials to switch back to a 65 mph speed limit.

 Southwest Motors was advertising a 1972 Ford Pinto Runabout with 18,000 miles and one owner for $1,995.

 The Safeway market was advertising Ellis brand tamales for 45 cents a can, bananas for 10 cents a pound, cabbage for 8 cents a pound and eight grapefruit for $1.

 The Odeon Theatre was screening Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, starring Paul Newman, Robert Redford and Katharine Ross. The Friday and Saturday late show included an indie horror film, Dont Look in the Basement.
The geographic political divisions in New Mexico have become so entrenched that both parties have just stopped trying in areas of the state where the other side has the advantage.

Of the 42 seats up for election in the state Senate this year, only 15 will be decided in the general election. Democrats will claim 17 seats and Republicans will win 10 without posting a yard sign, shaking a hand, making a campaign promise or kissing a baby.

Democrats have apparently given up on the seat they held from 1989 to 2020 when John Arthur Smith was in office. Republican Sen. Crystal Diamond Brantley is among the many incumbents this year running unopposed.

In the House, Republicans and Democrats will square off in just 33 of the 70 races on election day.

Democrats will win 20 seats uncontested, Republicans will take 15 and Libertarian candidates will compete for two seats.

Like many Las Cruces voters, Ill have a say in who represents me in one chamber, but not the other. My senator, Carrie Hamblen, faces a challenge. But my representative in the House, Micaela Lara Cadena, does not.

Other local legislators to get a free pass are Rep. Doreen Gallegos, Sen. Joseph Cervantes and Sen. Bill Soules. Rep. Angelica Rubio will face a challenge in the Democratic primary, but the winner will be uncontested in the general election.

Ive written several columns in the last few months reminding voters that all seats in the Legislature will be on the ballot this year, and encouraging them to ask their candidates tough questions about whatever issue I was writing on. But candidates running uncontested need not worry about tough questions, or the voters, for that matter.

I understand the frustration of Republicans in Dona Ana County, or Democrats in the southeast and northwest corners of the state. But they cant stop trying. Fielding a candidate means at least being able to join in the debate.

The show I co-host on Las Cruces community radio will invite all candidates running in contested local races to come on the air. To be honest, its one of the few times we offer that platform to conservative voices. But theyve got to be in the race.

There will be other candidate forums and debates held throughout the county in the weeks leading up to the election. Those in the minority need to take every opportunity they get to make their case as forcefully as possible. Even if it falls on deaf ears, you keep chipping away.

And who knows? Theres always a chance that the favorite will slip up and open the door for a worthy challenger.

This will be perhaps the most depressing presidential election of my lifetime. Im advising friends not to pay attention to the top of the ticket. Most folks have made up their minds on that one. We should focus instead on the down-ticket races that often have a greater impact on our daily lives. I just wish there were more races to focus on.

Walt Rubel is the former opinion page editor of the Las Cruces Sun-News. He lives in Las Cruces, and can be reached at:

[email protected]
Youd never expect a tax revolt to start in the blue California city of Oakland.

But a bunch of angry, over-taxed and under-protected local business people there have said, Enough is enough.

The owner of a restaurant has called on other Oakland small businesses to stop paying local taxes until their city starts doing what it should be doing  protecting them from a recent wave of robberies and thefts.

Big businesses like Tesla or Oracle can escape the madness and high taxes in California by moving to Texas, and they have.

But the poor guy who runs a pizza shop, gas station or a bar in Oakland or Los Angeles is trapped in a city while civilization and law and order have been breaking down around them.

Thanks to the bias and dishonesty of the TV networks and mainstream media, at least half the country has no idea just how bad things have gotten in West Coast cities like Oakland, Portland and Seattle.

Only Fox will regularly show their sidewalks lined for blocks with tents and strewn with used needles and human feces. Only Fox covers the financial strain tens of thousands of illegal immigrants are placing on their finances and police forces.

The ideologically perverse people in charge of our big cities in California and elsewhere have forgotten that the first job of any government is to protect us from being harmed by bad people whod hurt us or take our stuff.

Democratic governments like the one in New York City are spending more time and money protecting and helping the people who are here illegally than they are on their own citizens.

Theyre protecting squatters and homeless people living on sidewalks, not the homes and businesses of taxpayers.

In New York, while their city is going broke paying for their illegal visitors  food, hotel rooms and welfare benefits, government officials have kicked kids out of schools to make room for illegal immigrants.

Meanwhile, New Yorks politicians and government attorneys are so evil, it will not surprise me if someday they try to seize Trump Tower and turn it into the Migrant Tower.

The tax revolt of small businesses in Oakland is only a spark so far, but it could become a ray of hope for people living in our battered cities.

If a few million other businesses and taxpayers catch the Oaklanders Tea Party spirit, the people in charge might get the message and the upside-down world weve been living in for the last five years might be turned right-side up again.

Shoplifters might be arrested and imprisoned for more than four hours again. Sidewalks might be cleared of homeless encampments again.

Police might be adequately funded and deployed again. People might even be able to get the cops to arrest squatters who have taken over their homes again.

Daylight carjackings and home robberies might be reduced dramatically and women might feel safe to go to the mall again without worrying that their jewelry or smart phones will be swiped.

Oaklands talk of a tax revolt is an insurrection that might never spread to other cities in California and elsewhere.

But its an encouraging sign that the harmful woke progressive policies liberal Democrats have put into place in cities like New York, Los Angeles and Seattle may not last much longer.

Michael Reagan is the president of The Reagan Legacy Foundation. Contact him at:

[email protected]
Much hay has been made about Swedens entry into NATO. While it is a good thing that Sweden  which was officially neutral but was essentially acting as a free rider  is finally partaking in the defense of its continent, its arrival highlights a continuing problem: Sweden, and most NATO states, are still spending less than 2% of their budgets on GDP. But it even moreso shines a light on why this is happening: many European states simply cannot afford to spend more on defense.

Firstly, let us dispense with what would likely be the liberal internationalist response to these statements: NATO members have been increasing their spending. This is true, in that spending has increased from anemic to slightly less anemic. But for all of the bragging in European capitals, many still fail to spend at least 2% on defense; in 2023, only 11 actually hit the mark. More have claimed that they will soon hit 2%, but this promise is not worth the paper it is printed on, as it can simply be reversed the moment a new government comes into power or the spotlight turns away. Much of it is also built on extrapolation: Sweden received positive press for their defense increases, but reading past the headlines reveals that they will only hit 2% in 2028, provided defense funding steadily increases (which is, again, far from a sure thing). Much of this increased spending also is due to Ukraine aid. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was pleased to report Germany would spend over 2% on defense for the first time, but that benchmark will only be met because of one-time Ukraine aid increases, not to mention a shrunken German GDP.

But back to Sweden. Economists have a concept called guns and butter. States choose to spend on guns  defense and national security  or butter  social safety nets. It does not take an international relations expert to guess how Europe has allocated funding. Sweden spends about 1.3% of their GDP on defense, but they have a strong social network. They pay for the butter with extremely high taxes (taxes in the country are higher than the OECD average, and the highest rate is over 50%); this high taxation is repeated across Europe. A study revealed that, as a share of GDP, Americas total tax revenue stood at just under 25%  lower than every other NATO member state.

Because of Americas immense wealth, it can manage to spend on both guns and butter. Even if the U.S. cut its military budget in half  which would free up about $400 billion  its military would still have a budget about $200 billion higher than Chinas. It could use that $400 billion to launch free education, expand healthcare, or simply reduce taxes; it can spend on guns and butter.

But if the other NATO member states cut their military budgets in half, they would be left with practically nothing. Sky-high taxation allowed them to construct decent social safety nets, but thats all. They can afford brief, headline-catching increases (like Scholzs 2022 promise to increase military spending by $100 million, which has essentially gone nowhere), but they cannot sustain a serious growth in spending without changing the way their governments collect revenues.

They can afford serious defense spending increases in one of two ways: raise taxes to pay for guns, or cut spending on butter. Both of those options would be catastrophic for European establishments. Europeans are already overtaxed; increasing taxes and fees significantly to pay for more guns would likely result in political annihilation.

But so would cutting spending on butter. Since World War II, Europeans have been happy to brag about their social safety nets. Any American who has traveled abroad has surely heard some haughty remark about the superiority of European free healthcare. But if they actually had to pay, or if service was reduced? That likewise would result in electoral blowback.

Why are establishments in this jam? Had European leaders been honest and readied their population for needing to spend on defense, they would possibly be able to weather the storm. But they were not honest. They have spent decades playing a verbal two-step: on the one hand, they regularly critique America for spending too much on the military and being too militaristic. But on the other hand, they become infuriated whenever America broaches the subject of burden-shifting, allowing Europe to do more for its own defense so the U.S. can free up resources for its own needs. This played out for all to see in 2020, when an ally of then-Chancellor Angela Merkel called Trumps plan to remove 1/3 of Americas troops from Germany unacceptable.

But now, with America becoming increasingly skeptical of defending those who will not defend themselves, the two-step may be over. European establishments have no good choices, and they have arrived here entirely due to their own actions and the presumption that America will always defend Europe. They have all celebrated Swedens arrival to NATO, with some noting that, excepting Russias exclave Kaliningrad, the Baltic Sea is now a NATO lake. It is surely good news for the Baltic states, all of whom spend at least 2% on defense.

But that does not mean that it should be America which populates the Baltic Sea with its ships. It should be Sweden.

Anthony Constantini is a Contributing Fellow at Defense Priorities.
Disney/John Fleenor

By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 03/27/2024



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

winner Kelsey Anderson has admitted she went "back and forth" when considering whether Daisy Kent had spoiled Joey Graziadei 's marriage proposal for her.On 's Season 28 finale that aired Monday night on ABC, Daisy sought out Kelsey to essentially compare notes, when typically the Final 2 women are not allowed to see each other or talk, ahead of Joey's Final Rose Ceremony in Tulum, Mexico.Daisy admitted to Kelsey that something felt "off" and seemed to be "missing" with Joey during their last date, and so she gave the impression that Kelsey was going to be Joey's winner.The two women then traveled to the Final Rose Ceremony in the same van, which was another first for franchise. And once Daisy and Joey broke up, Daisy returned to the van and hugged Kelsey.Daisy all but congratulated Kelsey in that moment, and so it was pretty apparent that Kelsey knew Joey was going to pick her and most likely pop the question.Kelsey was asked if Daisy had spoiled the proposal for her and if a part of her wishes Daisy had never come to her with a prediction of Joey's final decision during a joint interview with Joey on the March 26 episode of the "Bachelor Happy Hour" podcast."Ummm, I think I went back and forth at the very beginning, like, 'I don't know, did I want that? Did I not?" Kelsey admitted to the podcast's co-hosts Joe Amabile and Serena Pitt "But at the end of the day, it's what happened. And I know that she had really good intent. And, you know, it did take a little bit of the stress off my shoulders going in."Kelsey therefore confirmed, "I do appreciate Daisy, and I think she's a wonderful woman."Kelsey also insisted her car ride with Daisy to the Final Rose Ceremony "wasn't as awkward" as it appeared on the show."Watching it, I was like, 'What is this?!'" Kelsey recalled with a laugh. "It did feel like a long car ride because I think we were all just nervous for the end."On the morning of the Final Rose Ceremony, Daisy wasn't feeling good because she believed Joey had been preparing her for a letdown rather than an engagement, especially when star mentioned how he had been in her shoes before and got "blindsided" at the end of ette."I was like, 'Oh, it's not me,'" Daisy shared with the cameras. "Love shouldn't feel like it hurts this much. I know what I need to do. As hard as it is right now, I know it will be the best thing for me."Daisy then knocked on Kelsey's hotel door, and Daisy politely and carefully asked Kelsey to share how her week with Joey had gone.Kelsey said she was feeling really good and that Joey had given her the validation she needed during the evening portion of their final date. Daisy, on the other hand, admitted that Joey hadn't given her any reassurance or confirmation that she was his person.Footage then showed Daisy and Kelsey traveling to the Final Rose Ceremony together, holding hands the entire time.Daisy walked out of the van first and took the long walk to Joey, who then gave a sweet speech about how their connection had been strong from the start and she really understood him to his "core.""Falling in love with you has been so fun and I do love you," Daisy told star. "But the thing is, you're not going to choose me."Joey immediately broke down into tears, confirming that Daisy's gut instinct was correct.Daisy then told Joey that she realized in the last few days that he wasn't her "person," and she added, "I know that you know I'm not your person. And as much as that hurts, umm, I know you said you want what's best for me, and so I'm going to do what's best for me -- and I'm going to go."Both Joey and Daisy were crying, and Joey confessed, "You truly don't know how special you are... and it hurts so much that I know I have something more special with someone else. That's where my heart is leading me, and I know it's the right thing to do.""I'll walk you out," Joey said."I think that's something I should do on my own," Daisy replied."I'm going to miss you," Joey cried."I'm going to miss you too," Daisy responded in tears. "I'm pulling for you!"Daisy then walked away from the emotional star, and once she got to the end of the path, Kelsey was standing there.Daisy kindly told her friend, "I know your mom's going to be looking down on this moment and she's going to be so happy and so proud of you, okay?"The women shared an emotional embrace, and then it was Kelsey's turn to meet Joey on the platform.Joey told Kelsey that he had chosen her and he couldn't wait another minute to express his true feelings."I love you," Joey gushed. "There is something about you. You have this infectious energy that makes me smile. It's a feeling I've never had before. I know during this time that we've built a very strong flame, and the only reason I know why that flame will never go out is because you're my light."Joey continued, "I have known for a while that I've wanted to have a beautiful life, but I truly didn't know how beautiful that life could be until I met you."Joey proceeded to get down on one knee and ask Kelsey, "I love you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?""Yes!" Kelsey replied. "Yes! Oh my god! I love you! I'm so happy! Oh my god, oh my god!"Kelsey and Joey are still together and in love, and they are planning to move in together in New York this summer.Daisy, meanwhile, wasn't interested in starring on ette, and so Jenn Tran will hand out roses later this year on the show's 21st season.Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group
Buffalo Games plans to add 95 jobs as part of a $6.5 million expansion, and was awarded low-cost hydropower to support the project.

The designer and manufacturer of jigsaw puzzles and board games has 102 local employees. According to the New York Power Authority, the company plans to combine its two manufacturing locations  the other one is in Massachusetts  into its facility in Buffalo, on James E. Casey Drive.

Buffalo Games project would involve relocating existing machinery, as well as investing in new equipment and a transformer service upgrade. With the expansion, the company would boost its production of jigsaw puzzles by 6 million to 7 million units annually.

The Power Authoritys board of trustees on Tuesday approved a 750 kilowatt allocation of low-cost hydropower to the company for 10 years. Buffalo Games committed to creating 95 jobs over the span of that allocation.

Buffalo Games is also seeking incentives from Empire State Development and National Grid.

The Power Authoritys board of trustees also approved hydropower and financial support for other Western New York employers:

Mayer Brothers

The West Seneca maker and distributor of apple juice, cider, water and other beverages plans an expansion worth over $1.5 million, to produce bottles used in its cider and water sectors.

The Power Authority said the project, which involves constructing a new building, will support nearly 300 jobs, and create at least six new jobs. The board of trustees approved a 210 kilowatt hydropower allocation for the project.

Niagara Arts & Cultural Center

The Niagara Falls nonprofit was awarded $1 million of power proceeds to support an $8.5 million upgrade of the buildings Legacy Theatre.

Power proceeds funding comes from the net earnings resulting from the sale of unused hydropower generated at the Niagara Power Project in Lewiston.

Irish Welding Supply

The Buffalo-based distributor of carbonic supplies and gases, and soft drink syrup and juice products is building a new water line, a project estimated at $437,000. Irish Welding Supply was awarded $87,000 in power proceeds funding toward the project.

According to the Power Authority, the project will enable Irish Welding to remain in its current location, where it has 83 employees.
The University of Georgias Special Collections Library hosted Kellie Carter Jackson, a professor at Wellesley Colleges Department of Africana Studies and an author, on Tuesday to deliver a Womens History Month keynote speech. Inspired by her upcoming book, the speech titled We Refuse was a call to understand Black history and not only learn from it, but also take action toward substantial changes for the betterment of society.
The Athens-Clarke County Unified Government is seeking residents input on the revised site selection for the relocation of Fire Station #5 as part of the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) project. The site selection criteria provides a series of guidelines for evaluating potential sites for the new station including acreage, location in comparison to other fire stations, public ownership, etc.
Equity fundraising through initial public offerings (IPOs) rose 20 per cent during the financial year 2023-24 (FY24).

During the period, 76 Indian corporates raised Rs 61,915 crore through main board IPOs, compared to Rs 52,116 crore mobilised by 37 IPOs in 2022-23, as disclosed by PRIME Database.

However, if one excludes the mega Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) IPO, which came out in 2022-23, IPO mobilisation increased by 58 per cent from last year.

The Rs 21,008-crore IPO of LIC came in May 2022.

Among the mainboard IPOs, Mankind Pharma was the largest with Rs 4,326 crore, followed by JSW Infrastructure at Rs 2,800 crore.

The smallest IPO was that of Plaza Wires, which raised Rs 71 crore.

The average deal size reduced significantly from Rs 1,409 crore in FY23 to Rs 815 crore in FY24.

Overall, equity fundraising jumped 2.4 times to Rs 1.86 trillion in FY24 from Rs 76,911 crore in the previous financial year.

The sharp rise was underpinned by the rally in stock prices across the board.

Companies from multiple sectors were able to tap the IPO market in FY24.

The traditionally dominant financial sector, however, demonstrated restrained activity, raising Rs 9,655 crore, which accounted for less than a fifth of the total capital raised.

New-age technology firms were also few, with just three IPOs hitting the market.

Pranav Haldea, managing director of PRIME Database Group said there was an enthusiastic response to most of the IPOs.

Of the 75 IPOs for which response data is available, 54 IPOs were subscribed more than 10 times, out of which 22 IPOs were subscribed more than 50 times while 11 IPOs were subscribed more than three times.

The other 10 IPOs were oversubscribed between 1 to 3 times.

The response of retail investors was also higher compared to the previous financial year.

The average number of retail applications rose to 1.3 million from about 0.6 million in the previous financial year.

The highest number of retail applications was for the Tata Technologies IPO (5.2 million), followed by DOMS Industries (4.1 million) and INOX India (3.7 million).

The response was due to strong post-listing performance.

The average listing gains rose to 29 per cent in FY24 against 9 per cent in the previous financial year.

Of the 75 IPOs, 48 gave a return of over 10 per cent.

Vibhor Steel delivered the biggest day-one pop of 193 per cent, followed by BLS E-Services (175 per cent) and Tata Technologies (163 per cent).

Over 50 of the 75 IPOs are currently trading above the issue price with an average return of 65 per cent.

In FY24, 96 companies filed their offer documents with the market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), up from 75 in the previous financial year.

However, 37 companies planning to raise Rs 59,000 crore let their approval lapse, while two looking to raise Rs 1,000 crore withdrew their documents.

Sebi returned the offer documents of five looking to raise Rs 2,500 crore.

At present, 19 companies planning to raise Rs 25,000 crore have obtained Sebi nod.

Another 37 companies looking to raise Rs 45,000 crore are awaiting the regulators approval.

Despite the upcoming general elections, the next couple of months should see a few IPOs launched, said Haldea.
'Isn't it obvious? Do you have a doubt? There is so much data that shows that there is quid pro quo.'

'There are many instances of donations being given after the raids, donations being given before the award of a contract and many other permutations and combinations.'

IMAGE: Narendra Modiat an election meeting in Salem, Tamil Nadu. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo

The Association of Democratic Reforms was one of the four petitioners to challenge the electoral bonds scheme in the Supreme Court.

ADR has doggedly pursued the case as lead petitioner since moving the Supreme Court in 2017. On February 15, 2024, the Supreme Court annulled the electoral bond scheme in an unanimous verdict.

Professor Jagdeep Chhokar is one of the founders of the ADR that was established in 1999 by a group of professors from the Indian Institute of Management- Ahmedabad.

ADR's mission is to increase transparency, accountability and bring about political-electoral reform in the country.

It is because of the PIL filed by ADR in 1999 that it is mandatory for all candidates contesting elections to disclose criminal, financial and educational background prior to the polls by filing an affidavit with the Election Commission.

In an interview with Rediff.com's Archana Masih, Professor Chhokar speaks about what surprised him about the electoral bond disclosures and how poll funding can be cleaned up.

What surprised you most of the electoral bonds disclosures?

After the judgment, everybody thought that the State Bank of India would release the information, but the SBI's application on March 4 was the biggest surprise.

First they said on affidavit that the disclosure of data would take three-and-a-half months. Then the advocate for SBI said they would give the data, but it would take three weeks.

Both these statements were not true and subsequently what was supposed to come out in three-and-a-half months came out in four days.

SBI has not come out in very good light which is a big surprise because it has an impeccable reputation.

What are some of the other unexpected revelations from the disclosures?

From the statements given by the political parties to the Election Commission, it is not a surprise that the BJP has got about 50% of the donations, but one did not expect unknown entities like the lottery company [Future Gaming] and Megha Engineering to be the top donors.

I had never heard of these and it came as a big surprise to me.

Secondly, the fact that companies being raided by the enforcement agencies were donating while being raided was also a surprise.

So, there were plenty of surprises, not all were unexpected. This has actually confirmed without a doubt of the existence of a corporate-political nexus.

Everybody knew there was a nexus and spoke about it, but this has provided concrete proof.

It is not going to be easy for anyone to say that this nexus does not exist. It does.

Considering the SBI is a respected Indian institution, do you feel it is liable and should be hauled up for this?

The SBI being liable has nothing to do with it being a large and respectable institution. Any entity which makes an incorrect statement in court is liable, and if the statement is made on affidavit, it is even worse.

In my limited understanding, liability exists. Whether the Supreme Court decides to enforce this liability or somebody goes to court to get this liability enforced is a separate issue, but the fact to me appears that they did make a wrong statement in court on affidavit which is a serious matter regardless of the reputation.

There is a law in the Indian Penal Code about lying under oath. The seriousness of the matter increases because it is a large and respected institution.

Do you believe there was a quid pro quo? Is ADR demanding a Special Investigation Team to investigate the quid pro quo?

ADR is not demanding anything. I will clarify that, but I don't have to say that there is a quid pro quo. Isn't it obvious? Do you have a doubt? There is so much data that shows that there is quid pro quo.

There are many instances of donations being given after the raids, donations being given before the award of a contract and many other permutations and combinations.

You see, quid pro quo is not only in one form.

Do you believe these allegations will be thoroughly investigated to follow the truth about quid pro quo?

I certainly hope so.

How do you view the absence of major corporates among the companies that brought the bonds?

We don't see their names because they didn't buy the bonds.

IMAGE: Modi along with BJP National President J P Nadda at the Bharatiya Janata Party central election committee meeting, March 23, 2024. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo

A lay person would ask if such corporates fund political parties in some other way.

That is for anybody to guess. The question to ask is whether they fund or do not fund political parties. Some people will say that they don't, while some will say it is very difficult to believe that big corporates don't give donations to political parties.

If we follow the second belief that it is very difficult to believe that corporates don't fund political parties, then it proves that electoral bonds was not the only method of paying political parties.

The other method was electoral trusts. The Tatas have an electoral trust, but other large companies don't.

So does that mean these other large companies do not donate to political parties? And if they do, how do they do it -- that is the mystery.

I would submit that one possible explanation is that unaccounted money was being given to political parties even when the electoral bond scheme was in force.

This shows that the electoral bond scheme did not do much to prevent other sources of funding towards political parties.

This is an inference, not a definite conclusion.

Do you think the government -- if the BJP wins the third term -- will resurrect the electoral bond scheme in a different avatar?

That remains to be seen. I don't have any view on this. I did not even imagine that the government will come out with the electoral bond scheme, so I cannot imagine what the government will do.

The Supreme Court has laid down two principles for free and fair elections which is a necessary requirement for democracy:

1. A level playing field -- all political parties that take part in an election should have equal access to resources of all kinds, not only money.

2. Voters have a right to know from where political parties get their money.

So even if the government comes up with another scheme, it will have to satisfy these two criteria.

IMAGE: Professor Jagdeep Chhokar IMAGE: Professor Jagdeep Chhokar

What would ADR's solution be to contest elections without dirty money?

ADR has two solutions.

1. Political parties should be demonstrably internally democratic.

We have to think why contesting elections is so expensive. It is expensive because the candidates who contest elections are chosen randomly by the leadership of political parties. The members of the party on the ground have no say in who should be the candidate. This shows that parties do not function democratically in their internal affairs.

In a country which proudly says that we are a vibrant democracy, it is institutions like political parties that uphold democracy. A country cannot be a democracy unless the pillars supporting democracy are democratic.

The Law Commission of India said this in its 170th report in 1999.

The reason why elections cost so much of money is because of a series of events like the non democratic functioning of parties.

Holding an election for party president is not enough; parties have to be democratic till the grassroot level.

It should be demonstrable, not notional.

2. The income and expenditure of political parties should be done digitally. We are the world leaders in UPI [Unified Payment Interface]. If political parties receive money through digital transactions, then the Supreme Court directive that citizens have the right to know how political parties are funded will be fulfilled.

Also, the explanation that the donor's identity is kept secret so that a political party does not victimise the donor of another party is a convoluted one.

Political parties have to come to an agreement that they are not vindictive to each other's donors. This is a problem created by political parties and society cannot solve it. The onus is on political parties -- they have to behave responsibly.

Unfortunately, since they are unlikely to behave responsibly, the country needs a law to regulate the functioning of political parties which will see that they are demonstrably democratic and financially transparent. But who will make the law is the big question.

If political parties continue irresponsibly, then the Judiciary will have to act like what it has done now. The Executive, Legislature and Judiciary are the three pillars of democracy and if one does not act properly, the Judiciary will have to step in which politicians don't like.

Part 2 of the Interview: 'Democracy is not a destination'

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'Wrong feedback was given against Parasji to the top BJP leadership in New Delhi by a senior BJP leader, who is also a Union minister from Bihar.'

'He deliberately provided wrong information about the RLJP to the BJP leadership to help Chirag Paswan.'

IMAGE: Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party Pashupati Kumar Paras along with party MPs Prince Raj and others address a press conference in New Delhi, March 15, 2024. Photograph: Mohd Zakir/ANI Photo

After the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance denied any seat to its ally Pashupati Kumar Paras's Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party to contest the Lok Sabha election in Bihar, Paras resigned from the Narendra Modi ministry.

His estranged nephew Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party has been given 5 Lok Sabha seats to contest this election.

The BJP has thrown its weight behind Chirag, who is regarded as his late father Ram Vilas Paswan's political successor.

As per the Bihar caste survey, the Paswan community comprises 5.3 percent of Bihar's population.

Ram Vilas Paswan's importance was his capacity to transfer his caste vote to any alliance he joined during his long political career.

"The BJP has backstabbed our party and our leader by not giving any seat to the RLJP," RLJP Chief Spokesperson Sharvan Agarwal, who is considered close to Paras, tells Rediff.com Senior Contributor M I Khan.

What is going to be your party's next move? Will it contest the Lok Sabha elections on its own or join hands with others?

Look, justice was not done to us, in fact injustice was done to us.

Parasji took the right decision by resigning from the Modi Cabinet. Most of the party leaders, workers and supporters were in favour of it.

The BJP has backstabbed our party and our leader by not giving any seat to the RLJP to contest the Lok Sabha elections. The RLJP's 5 MPs supported the NDA and worked to strengthen it.

The NDA decision to totally ignore us in the seat sharing formula was back stabbing the people in the parliamentary constituencies of Hajipur, Samastipur, Nawada, Vaishali and Khagaria.

People of these seats voted for us in the 2019 elections and we won.

Our party has called a meeting of RLJP leaders including party district presidents, block presidents and panchayat level members to discuss and take a final decision to quit the NDA or not. Everything will be known soon.

Our options and doors are open for realignment. We are in touch with Lalu Prasad Yadav and other Mahagathbandhan leaders.

Why did the BJP and NDA ignore RLJP and Paras and instead choose Chirag Paswan?

It was a conspiracy we never expected, that the BJP led NDA would ignore and leave us.

After the LJP split in 2021, all 5 RLJP MPs supported the BJP led NDA government and displayed our full loyalty. The RLJP honestly stood with the BJP and was a loyal ally of the NDA.

Most of the NDA allies in Bihar including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JD-U, former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha, former Union minister Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Morcha and Chirag Paswan's LJP are Aya-Ram Gaya-Rams. All of them walked out of the NDA time and again and rejoined.

They have been given honour while we were insulted and humiliated.

Those parties who weakened the NDA were rewarded. This will prove disastrous.

In Bihar the ground reality is different. The wrong feedback was given against Parasji to the top BJP leadership in New Delhi by a senior BJP leader, who is also a Union minister from Bihar.

This minister has been conspiring against Parasji for the last one year.

He deliberately provided wrong information about the RLJP to the BJP leadership to help Chirag Paswan.

IMAGE: Pashupati Kumar Paras, third from right, being garlanded by supporters after being re-elected RLJP national president in Patna. Photograph: ANI Photo

How is your party preparing for the Lok Sabha elections?

The RLJP will play politics that will heavily damage the NDA in all 40 seats in Bihar. We will not sit silent.

We will work hard to defeat those who campaigned against us.

What about Paras? Will he contest the election from Hajipur against his nephew Chirag Paswan?

One thing is certain and sure: Parasji will contest from Hajipur. People are with Parasji in Hajipur as he was chosen by none other Ram Vilas Paswanji, who was our supreme leader when he was alive, to contest from Hajipur in 2019.

Chirag will be defeated in Hajipur and Parasji will win the seat again.

Chirag should contest from a general parliamentary constituency in place of a reserve constituency because he has been talking against reservation.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'Since the last ten days our own people were spreading canards and propaganada against me and my family.'

'I was upset by this behaviour and I decided that I should not contest this Lok Sabha election.'

IMAGE: A Modi roadshow in Coimbatore, March 18, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Two probable Bharatiya Janata Party candidates -- two-term sitting MP Ranjanben Bhatt from Vadodara and debutant Bhikhaji Thakor from Sabarkantha -- have withdrawn their names voluntarily from contesting the Lok Sabha elections. There are reports that BJP nominees from Anand and three more constituencies are planning to pull out from the Lok Sabha contest even after being named by the party.

While critics call signs of brewing dissent among those who could not make it to the BJP's list of 26 Lok Sabha nominees and even from those who have got the party tickets, Bhatt and Thakor scotch these news of 'brewing dissent' in the bud as they tell Prasanna D Zore/Rediff.com that they have no plans to quit the BJP and join any other party or contest as rebels.

"I will not quit the BJP in this life or for next seven lives to come," says Bhatt, 62, who had once rebelled against the BJP in 2000 municipal elections and won.

"I will never quit the BJP; I have been part of the BJP for the last 25 years and will continue to remain with BJP till all my life," adds Thakor, 56, a former Vishwa Hindu parishad leader who had until his Lok Sabha nomination in 2024 contested only district level elections, for good measure.

Both Thakor and Bhatt are confident of a BJP encore of 2019 when the BJP won all the 26 Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat and vow that they will work towards Narendra Modi's aim of achieving 400-plus Lok Sabha seats in this election.

***

Ranjanben Bhatt

Why did you withdraw from the Vadodara seat?

Since the last ten days our own people (belonging to the BJP) were spreading canards and propaganada against me and my family. I was upset by this behaviour and I decided that I should not contest this Lok Sabha election.

The person leading this propaganda is an RTI activist and it is the BJP people who were running this tirade against me.

Who is this RTI activist?

I don't want to name anybody, but our own people were spreading canards about my family and me.

Why would a sitting two-term MP withdraw from contesting the election when she has been nominated by her party for the third time to contest a prestigious election?

I won the Lok Sabha elections in 2014 and 2019 with the blessings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a good margin. If I had contested this time I would have won by a margin of more than 10 lakh votes.

Will you now quit active politics? What role would you be playing now?

I have always been a loyal party worker first and now that I am not contesting for the Lok Sabha I will continue to work as a loyal and ordinary party worker. <

I will do my bit to achieve the dream of Viksit Bharat (making India a developed nation) and help Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his feat of achieving 400 plus seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha eection.

Did you withdraw your name under pressure?

(Laughs.) I will not speak about it (now) but none of my supporters engaged in arm twisting or strong arm tactics; neither did I allow anybody to go against the party.

I was, I am and will continue to remain loyal to my party and my prime minister who chose me to contest from Vadodara when he vacated this seat after winning it in 2014 (Modi had contested from Varanasi and Vadodara in 2014 and he won both the seats; later he vacated the Vadodara seat).

I was again given an opportunity to serve the nation in 2019 and I won again with the blessings of my prime minister and BJP.

I shall continue to offer my commitment and loyalty to the BJP.

There are reports on social media hinting that your supporters and you are not happy with the turn of events and have plans to quit the BJP. Are these reports true?

I am not planning anything foolish like that. For me my party comes first; not my personal ambitions. Those spreading these reports are doing it with a bad intention to spoil my reputation. I will not quit the BJP in this life or for next seven lives to come.

I will be campaigning with same vigour and commitment to help whoever the party chooses as it candidate from Vadodara and help that candidate (the BJP has replaced Bhatt with first-timer Hemang Joshi) win this seat with a record margin.

Gujarat will once again vote overwhelmingly for the BJP; we will again win all the 26 Lok Sabha seats.

Will Narendra Modi fulfill his dreams of winning more than 400 Lok Sabha seats in 2024 as he has claimed?

I can vouch for the fact that the BJP will win all the 26 seats in Gujarat.

I would like to request the people of Vadodara that they should continue to shower their love and blessings on Modiji and be a part of Modiji's Viksit Bharat dream. We will all work together and once again get the lotus bloom in Vadodara.

***

Bhikhaji Thakor

Why did you refuse to contest the Sabarkantha Lok Sabha seat even after the BJP fielded you from the constituency?

I did it for personal reasons. As it is, I am really very busy with party work in Sabarkantha and happy working to serve the BJP's interests in Gujarat. I don't plan to contest from any other party.

I will continue to be in the BJP and work towards achieving Modiji's dream of 400-plus Lok Sabha seats.

Social media has been abuzzabout your plan to join the Congress with 2,000 of your supporters. Are those reports untrue then?

One should not believe whatever one reads on the social media. I will never quit the BJP; I have been part of the BJP for the last 25 years and will continue to remain with the BJP till all my life. We will all work together to work for the victory of the BJP's Sabarkantha Lok Sabha candidate Shobhanaben Baraiya.

Who is responsible for spreading the rumours that you have plans to join the Congress?

I don't know who, but I was shocked to read this bit on WhatsApp. When I read it on WhatApp I immediately lodged a police complaint against unknown persons for defaming me and tarnishing my image. The police is investigating the matter and will take appropriate action once they find out who the culprit is.

I never made any statements or gave any hints (that I plan to join the Congress) but someone has played mischief and that person will pay for this mischief.

Let our political opponents play whatever dirty games they want to play, but they will not be able to stop BJP from winning all 26 seats from Gujarat and more than 400 seats across India. Our candidates will win each of these seats with a margin of more than 500,000 votes.
A total of 222 bills were passed in the 17th Lok Sabha and 45 of these were cleared the same day they were introduced in the House, according to an analysis by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR).

Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI Photo

Some of these bills are The Appropriation (Vote on Account) Bill, The Appropriation Bill, The Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation (No.2) Bill, The Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and The Election Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2021.

A report of the analysis, which was conducted by ADR and National Election Watch (NEW), was released on Tuesday. It sheds light on the performance of the 17th Lok Sabha and its members.

According to the report, 240 bills were introduced during the tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha and 222 of them were passed.

Additionally, 11 bills were withdrawn and six are pending. Only one bill received the President's assent.

According to the data, 45 bills were passed the same day they were introduced in the House.

On average, an MP asked 165 questions and attended 189 of the 273 sittings.

MPs from Chhattisgarh had the highest average attendance, with 11 representatives from the state attending 216 of the 273 sittings.

Conversely, Arunachal Pradesh had the lowest average attendance, with two of its MPs attending only 127 sittings.

The analysis further delves into engagement levels across states and political parties.

MPs from Maharashtra were the most vocal, with 49 representatives asking 315 questions each on average. In contrast, Manipur MPs asked 25 questions each on average.

Among parties, the NCP stood out with five of its MPs raising an average of 410 questions each. On the other hand, two Apna Dal (Soneylal) raised only five questions each on average.

Telugu Desam Party (TDP) members attended 229 of the 273 sittings on average. AAP members had the lowest attendance with only 57 sittings on average.

The report also names 10 MPs who participated actively in parliamentary proceedings, posing the highest number of questions.

BJP's Balurghat MP Sukanta Majumdar, who asked 596 questions, topped the list.

The majority of the questions revolved around health and family welfare, agriculture and farmers welfare, and railways, according to the report.
The Maryland state police on Wednesday said that the six people who were missing after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed Tuesday in Baltimore, Maryland, are feared dead.

IMAGE: View of the Dali cargo vessel which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing it to collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., March 26, 2024. Photograph: Nathan Howard/Reuters

The Singapore-flagged vessel collided with one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland, leading to its collapse on Tuesday.

The ship's crew -- all Indian, 22 in total -- issued a mayday call moments before the crash took down the Francis Scott Key Bridge, enabling authorities to limit vehicle traffic on the span, Maryland's governor said.

Owners and managers of the Singapore-flagged container ship 'Dali' report that the vessel collided with one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Baltimore, whilst under pilotage with two pilots onboard, at approximately 01:30 local time on March 26, ship management company Synergy Marine Group said in a statement.

"Our heartfelt condolences to all affected by the unfortunate accident at the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore," the Indian Embassy said in a post on X.

The embassy said it has created a dedicated hotline "for any Indian citizens that may be affected/require assistance".

The embassy is ascertaining details regarding the vessel's crew.

The ship, outbound from Baltimore to Colombo, struck a 1.6-mile-long, four-lane bridge in Baltimore in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Shortly after the collision, the bridge collapsed, crashing on the cargo ship.

Grace Ocean Private Ltd owns the vessel with a capacity of 10,000 TEU, with onboard units totalling 4,679 TEU. The vessel's tons deadweight is 116,851 DWT.

The crew alerted transportation personnel about losing control of the vessel, enabling authorities to close the Baltimore bridge to traffic before the devastating collision, "undoubtedly" saving lives, US President Joe Biden said.

"Personnel onboard the ship were able to alert the Maryland Department of Transportation that they had lost control of their vessel. As a result, local authorities were able to close the bridge to traffic before the bridge was struck, which undoubtedly saved lives," Biden said in remarks made in the White House on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

Biden said that the investigation into the collision so far indicates "that this was a terrible accident. At this time, we have no other indication, no other reason to believe if there is any intentional act here", Biden said.

The bridge crosses over the Patapsco River and its construction was completed in 1977. The bridge has a traffic volume of 11.3 million vehicles. It is named after Francis Scott Key, the author of the US national anthem Star Spangled Banner.'

United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek Barron said that there was no evidence to suggest that the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore has any ties to terrorism.

Earlier in the day, Biden spoke with federal, state, and local officials as part of the ongoing response to the collapse of the bridge.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore also told reporters that the crew of the cargo ship alerted authorities about a power issue before the vessel collided with the bridge and this mayday call enabled workers to stop more vehicular traffic from coming onto the bridge.

We can confirm that the crew notified authorities of a power issue, Moore said.

Moore was asked that the crew on the ship alerted authorities about losing propulsion and was in trouble.

Yes, Moore said when asked if the crew had lost power on the ship.

We do know that the investigation is currently going on. But I have to say I'm thankful for the folks who, once the warning came up and once notification came up that there was a mayday, who literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge. These people are heroes, they saved lives last night, he said.

We are thankful that between the mayday and the collapse that we had officials who were able to begin to stop the flow of traffic so more cars were not up on the bridge, he said.

Moore added that the preliminary investigation points to an accident. We haven't seen any credible evidence of a terrorist attack.

With inputs from PTI
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said she declined the offer of the Bharatiya Janata Party to contest elections pleading that she did not have the 'kind of funds' required for fighting the Lok Sabha polls.

IMAGE: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Photograph: ANI Photo

The minister said that the BJP president (J P Nadda) gave her the option to contest either from Andhra Pradesh or Tamil Nadu.

"After thinking over a week or 10 days, I just went back to say... maybe not. I do not have that kind of money to contest. I also have a problem whether it is Andhra Pradesh or Tamil Nadu. It's also going to be a question of various other winnability criteria that they use...Are you from this community or are you from that religion? Are you from this? I said no, I do not think I am going to able to do it," she said.

Sitharaman was speaking at the Times Now Summit 2024 New Delhi.

"I am very grateful that they accepted my argument...So I am not contesting," she added.

When asked why even the finance minister of the country does not have enough funds to fight Lok Sabha elections, she said that the Consolidated Fund of India does not belong to her.

She said, "My salary, my earnings, my savings are mine and not the Consolidated Fund of India".

The ruling BJP has fielded several existing Rajya Sabha members in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, beginning April 19.

These include Piyush Goyal, Bhupender Yadav, Rajiv Chandrasekhar, Mansukh Mandaviya, and Jyotiraditya Scindia.

Sitharaman is a Rajya Sabha member from Karnataka.

The minister said that she will be campaigning for different candidates.

"I will also be attending a lot of media events. And going with the candidates like tomorrow I will be going for Rajiv Chandrasekhar campaign and so yes, I'll be on the campaign trail," she added.

'Nobody has moral authority to say anything on electoral bonds'

Sitharaman said that all major political parties have encashed electoral bonds and nobody has a moral authority to say anything as it was legal and according to law.

She also said that in view of the Supreme Court's judgment against electoral bonds, more debate is needed to come out with a better system for electoral funding.

Replying to a question at the summit, the minister said the law, which has now been quashed by the apex court, was passed by Parliament and the bonds were purchased as per the prevailing law at that time.

"It was passed by Parliament and based on the law, bonds have bought and encashed by all parties but one... Everyone has received from everybody, every donor has given everybody.

"The very party which now says well this is a scam, this is a scandal, had also taken money through the bonds. Tell me what moral authority anyone has to speak because it was the law then... it went lawfully. It was a step better than what prevailed earlier," Sitharaman said.

On what the new government can do in this regard, she said there is a need to understand how to better the system, which has been rejected now.

The system of electoral bonds was still better than the previous system, 'which is what we've gone back to now. We need to do something better, but a lot more work is required', she added.

Last month, a five-judge apex court bench, headed by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, said the electoral bonds scheme violates the right to information and the freedom of speech and expression under the Constitution.

She also rebutted the allegations of connections between ED (directorate of enforcement) raids and bond purchases, stating the raids have happened even on those companies that donated to the BJP through electoral bonds.

"ED raids still happen, it did not give them (companies) any immunity," she added.

The minister added that the law enforcement agencies are not acting with any political agenda as law pursues those who disobey it.

"Stop making political arguments over them," Sitharaman said.

On why the BJP is welcoming tainted politicians, she said the 'doors are open for all'.

"If people see work happening... and a party is making a difference, they obviously would want to come and join. But the BJP has value systems and the way in which the party runs under certain leadership. I don't think there is ever a compromise on that," Sitharaman said.

Replying to a question on Congress spokerperson Supriya Shrinate's comments against BJP Lok Sabha candidate Kangana Ranaut, she said it is 'outrageous' and 'abhorrent'.

She added that Shrinate should have tendered an unconditional apology.

A controversial comment was posted on social media platforms from Congress leader Shrinate's accounts against Ranaut, the Bollywood actor who has been fielded by the BJP as its candidate from the Mandi Lok Sabha constituency in Himachal Pradesh.

Following a row, Shrinate removed the controversial remarks from all of her social accounts, claiming that they had been posted not by her but by someone else who had access to her accounts.

The finance minister refused to call the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal a case of political vendetta.

The chief minister had not complied with number of summons sent by the ED, she said, adding that the governance has gone down the drain in Delhi as well as Punjab, the two states ruled by AAP.

Welcoming the minister, Times Group Managing Director Vineet Jain said from the political arena to the global economic stage, from diplomatic corridors to military frontiers, India is making its mark and shaping the future of the world.

"In the realm of politics, India's vibrant democracy has long stood as a beacon of hope and inspiration. With each election cycle, the citizens of India exercise their democratic rights, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their choices respected," he said.

He added that geopolitically, India is forging new partnerships and strengthening old alliances, cementing its position as a global leader.

"Through partnerships with countries across Asia, Africa, and beyond, our nation is expanding its influence and playing a pivotal role in shaping regional and global affairs. On the economic front, India's trajectory is nothing short of remarkable," Jain added.
Stavatti Aerospace has run out of time for its ambitious plan to build military and commercial jets at a vacant military hangar in Niagara Falls.

Three and a half years after approving tax breaks for the plan, the Niagara County Industrial Development Agency on Wednesday refused to extend the subsidies for Stavatti Aerospace Ltd., after concluding the project just wasnt getting off the ground.

The rare move by a local IDA came after the project had already received multiple extensions since winning its first approval in October 2020.

It also came despite executives saying they had just received a $600 million letter of intent from an unnamed U.S. ally for Stavatti to retrofit 16 older Soviet-era airplanes with updated U.S. parts  the latest similar claim by a company that has yet to actually produce a plane. The March 20 letter is not a formal or binding purchase contract.

The agencys board members indicated they had run out of patience with a project that had shown little progress.

Whats important here is setting a precedent or not setting a precedent, said board member Clifford Scott. Other organizations will follow, if we provide an extension.

Two board members toured the facility in recent weeks and met with Stavatti executive John Simon  a former NCIDA executive director  but came away with mixed reactions.

Frankly, there was little activity going on in the building. However, it looked like they were poised to make some changes to that in the near future, said NCIDA First Vice Chairman Jason Krempa. But, he added, the fact that there hasnt been any progress in three years is concerning.

Stavatti, led by founder Christopher Robin Beskar, had pledged to invest $26 million to renovate the 150,000-square-foot former U.S. Army Reserve Station complex into a research, design and production facility for its prototype planes, promising more than 360 new jobs. In exchange, the NCIDA in October 2020 granted $2.15 million in tax breaks over 15 years.

Beskar paid $1.2 million in cash in November 2020 for the 19.8-acre property on Porter Road, adjacent to the Niagara Falls International Airport, and Simon said the company has spent another $1.3 million to $1.5 million on improvements.

But Stavatti had used only $4,000 of its sales tax breaks to date, which meant it had spent just $50,000 on eligible expenses, according to NCIDA counsel Mark Gabriele.

And while between 20 and 40 people work at the site near the Niagara Falls International Airport, Gabriele added, none are employed by Stavatti but rather by unrelated entities that rent space from the company.

Stavatti asked for an extra two years on its sales and property tax breaks but NCIDA policy limits the agency to one-year extensions anyway, and board members talked of even shorter time frames, even just 60 days.

But they ultimately balked at even short extensions, because they did not believe the project would be that much closer to completion in that time. And they said the nature of the project had clearly changed, with a focus on retrofits and upgrades of older planes.

Theyve had a long time to do this, Chairman Mark Onesi said. It didnt look like it was going anywhere. And what theyre bringing in is something outside of their plans.

However, the denial does not bar Stavatti from coming back with a new application, which would restart a three-year timeline. And Simon said they planned to do that.

I full understand their reasoning to terminate, because we were unable to perform with the employment numbers and the investment numbers,  Simon said.

In particular, he said, the company needs to upgrade an electrical substation that would be a critical part of turning the hangar and related property into a modern manufacturing facility. That alone would cost about $1 million, he said. "The substation really needs work. That's a lot of money, and the tax benefits on that would be very helpful," Simon said. "We need to get that improved."

That will allow the company to proceed with retrofitting the 16 existing military planes that would be flown into Niagara Falls, if a contract is signed. Simon did not identify the client or the type of plane, but said they would be reconfigured into Stavatti's SM-29E Super Fulcrum. According to the company's website, that means they're MiG-29 Fulcrum jets, which would get updated engines, sensors, avionics, radar, display and other cockpit upgrades.
The Election Commission on Wednesday slapped show-cause notices on Bharatiya Janata Party leader Dilip Ghosh and Congress leader Supriya Shrinate for their offensive remarks against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Kangana Ranaut respectively.

IMAGE: Congress's Supriya Shrinate and BJP's Dilip Ghosh. Photograph: ANI Photo

Ranaut has been fielded by the BJP from Himachal Pradesh's Mandi Lok Sabha seat for the parliamentary elections.

Their remarks were "undignified and in bad taste", the Election Commission (EC) said.

The poll panel said that prima facie, the two remarks were violative of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and its advisory to political parties to maintain dignity during electioneering.

The MCC came into force on March 16 with the commission announcing the schedule for the Lok Sabha elections.

The two leaders have been asked to respond to the show-cause notices by March 29 evening.

The EC took action against Shrinate following a complaint by the BJP that alleged she had posted a picture of Ranaut along with "derogatory remarks" on social media platform X.

According to the EC notice, she had posted: "Kya bhav chal raha hai Mandi mein, koi batayega?"

The notice to West Bengal BJP leader Ghosh was issued after the Trinamool Congress (TMC) approached the commission.

According to the English translation of Ghosh's remark, as provided by the EC in its notice, he had said: "When Didi goes to Goa, she becomes Goa's daughter, in Tripura, she says I am Tripura's daughter, decide who is your father, this is not right."

The EC said on careful examination, the comment has been found to be offensive, insulting and prima facie, violative of the provisions of the MCC and the commission's advisory issued earlier this month.

The poll authority reminded the two leaders of the provision of the MCC which states that criticism of other political parties, when made, shall be confined to their policies and programme, past record and work.

"Parties and candidates shall refrain from criticism of all aspects of private life, not connected with the public activities of the leaders or workers of other parties. Criticism of other parties or their workers based on unverified allegations or distortion shall be avoided."

The commission's advisory issued to the political parties regarding plummeting levels of political discourse notes that no aspect of the private life, not connected with the public activities, of the leaders or workers of other parties is to be criticised.

"Low level personal attacks to insult the rivals shall not be made. The political parties and candidates to refrain from any deeds/action/utterances that may be construed as being repugnant to the honour and dignity of women," it said.

Social media posts vilifying and insulting rivals or posts which are in bad taste or which are below dignity are not to be posted or shared, it had also pointed out.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a money-laundering case against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena Vijayan and her IT firm for receiving 'illegal payments' from a Kochi-based private firm, official sources said on Wednesday.

IMAGE: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena during her marriage on June 15, 2020, in Thiruvananthapuram. Photograph: ANI Photo

The federal agency has registered the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and is expected to summon the alleged beneficiaries of these funds and others involved, sources said.

Sources also said the ED will probe all the alleged illegal payments made by the private company to 'influential and politically-linked persons'.

The ED booked Veena Vijayan and her company after taking cognisance of a complaint filed by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), an investigative arm of the Union corporate affairs ministry, they added.

Reacting strongly to the registration of the case, the Communist Party of India-Marxist in Kerala accused the Central probe agency of doing 'daily labour' for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party at the Centre.

Meanwhile, the opposition Congress, which has been alleging a secret pact between the saffron party and CPI-M in the state, however, reacted cautiously and raised suspicions that it was an 'election stunt' ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, while BJP justified the move, saying corrupt people should have to face the consequences too.

The case came to light after the income-tax department found that Cochin Minerals And Rutile Limited (CMRL) made an alleged 'illegal payments' of Rs 1.72 crore to Veena Vijayan's company -- Exalogic Solutions -- in 2018 and 2019, even though the information technology (IT) firm had not provided any service to the private company.

The Karnataka high court last month dismissed a plea filed by Exalogic Solutions against the probe initiated by the SFIO.

According to reports quoting the Income Tax Interim Board for Settlement, the Kochi-based company previously had an agreement with Veena Vijayan's firm for consultancy and software support services.

Even though no service was rendered by Veena Vijayan's firm, the amount was paid on a monthly basis 'due to her relationship with a prominent person', the reports have claimed, citing the deposition of the minerals company authorities before the income-tax department.

Criticising the ED move, CPI-M state secretary M V Govindan asked whether the agency had any credibility.

The ED was one of the prominent agencies in the country, which the Supreme Court had said had lost its credibility, he said at a press conference in Kochi.

"It (the case) will be dealt with properly," he said in response to queries about the ED case.

Replying to a question as to whether the CM was being targeted through the Central probe, he said: "You can target anyone politically. But the question is, who is targeting? It (ED) is doing the daily labour for the BJP."

Further, he alleged that earlier Central agencies were used for political gains only, but now they are also used by the Union government and the BJP for amassing money from black money holders and offenders by threatening them.

"The party (the CPI(M)) and its people are not the ones who will surrender to such tactics and cases," Govindan added.

Earlier, the chief minister had rubbished the charges, saying they were made to tarnish his image and defame him.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Wednesday said that a change in the demeanour of people should not happen because of police or Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids, but should happen from the heart and with a conscience.

IMAGE: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat. Photograph: ANI Photo

He was speaking at the 101st anniversary event of Lokmanya Seva Sangh, a Mumbai-based organisation set up to build a 'socially vigilant, disciplined, cultured and progressive society'.

"Organisations should pick various subjects to ensure social transformation. I have listed a few of them. Change in demeanour can also happen because of police standing (in the street) or to avoid ED (Enforcement Directorate) raid. We don't want that. It (change in behaviour) should be from the mind," Bhagwat said.

The transformation should happen in the mind, and the intellect should accept it, Bhagwat said.

"It should happen not because someone else doing it, but should happen with a conscience. I feel it is the responsibility of every institution to introduce such reforms in the society," he said.

Bhagwat said an unsafe country can't progress.

"When there is an invasion, no progress can ever happen. Progress takes place during the period of safety. If we become more and more self-reliant, our country will become safer. A country becomes safer when people follow the basic rules and do not jump the signal," he said

The RSS chief also stated that running the country is a huge responsibility.

"It is not a contract that can be given to anyone. It is a huge responsibility. Becoming a good person means having civic sense. We in the RSS are now thinking of presenting our workers as an example to the society about following the civic sense," he said.

Bhagwat said that during the era of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, there were many institutions in the society, and they worked on two fronts: societal reforms and Independence.

The institutions in society now need to undertake similar works to bring in a change in demeanour (of people), he added.

"A country whose common man is great is a great nation. Hence, reform at the societal level is needed. A nation's rise and fall are linked with society's thought process and values," he said.

Bhagwat said Lokmanya Tilak inspired Keshav Hedgewar, who founded RSS in 1925, in his early social life.

Citing an example of Winston Churchill, former prime minister of the United Kingdom, from the World War II period, Bhagwat said he was almost ready to surrender before Germany, but he listened to the people and realised that they were ready to fight even with the kitchen knife.

"Churchill gave his most famous speech in the British Parliament, boosting the morale of his people, and England later won the war. He gave the credit to the people of England and said that he roared on behalf of them during the wartime, but the people were the real lions," said Bhagwat.

The RSS chief said every person plays an important role in social transformation.

He expressed concerns that an extremely materialistic lifestyle has taken over society and is affecting familial bonds.

"The extreme materialistic views have dominated the country for many years. Families have become nuclear, and there is no one for ego management. I am sorry to say that families with higher education and income are disjointed. Such a scene is not seen among those earning less. Our society and our families need a better bonding," he said.

The new generation doesn't know Shivaji Maharaj and Maharana Pratap, Bhagwat rued.
The Enforcement Directorate has issued fresh summons to Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra and Dubai-based businessman Darshan Hiranandani for questioning in a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) contravention case on March 28, official sources said on Wednesday.

IMAGE: TMC MP Mahua Moitra addresses the media against her expulsion from Lok Sabha during the Winter Session of the Parliament, in New Delhi. Photograph: Sanjay Sharma/ANI Photo

The 49-year-old TMC leader was called for questioning twice earlier by the central agency but she did not depose citing official work and sought deferment of the notice.

Moitra and Hiranandani have been asked to appear for questioning at the ED office here on Thursday, the sources said.

Hiranandani was also summoned by the agency in a separate FEMA case against his Mumbai-based realty group. Earlier, his father Niranjan Hiranandani had deposed before the ED in Mumbai.

In the current case, the sources said, an advocate allegedly linked to Moitra was examined by the ED on Wednesday at its office in Delhi.

Moitra, who was expelled from the Lok Sabha in December for "unethical conduct", has been renominated by her party from West Bengal's Krishnanagar seat in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had raided her premises in connection with the cash-for-query case on Saturday, days after anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal directed the federal agency to investigate the allegations levelled against her by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey.

Dubey, a Lok Sabha member, has alleged that Moitra asked questions in the House in exchange for cash and gifts from Hiranandani to mount an attack on industrialist Gautam Adani and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, among others.

Transactions linked to a non-resident external (NRE) account are under the ED's scanner, apart from a few other foreign remittances and fund transfers, the sources said.

Moitra has denied any wrongdoing and claims that she is being targeted as she raised questions about deals of the Adani Group.
An IndiGo aircraft grazed the wings of an Air India Express plane at the Kolkata airport on Wednesday, leaving the wings of both aircraft damaged, officials said.

Image only for representation. Photograph: ANI Photo

The IndiGo flight was headed to Darbhanga, while the Air India Express plane was scheduled to leave for Chennai.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a probe and de-rostered two IndiGo pilots involved in the incident, a senior DGCA official said.

The IndiGo flight had 131 adults plus four infants on board, while there were 163 passengers inside the Air India Express aircraft.

Besides passengers, both aircraft had pilots and crew members on board, but no injuries to anyone have been reported.

Air India in a statement said the aircraft has returned to the bay and further investigations are underway.

'The wingtip of a taxiing aircraft of another airline grazed one of our aircraft, which was stationary and awaiting clearance to enter the runway at Kolkata for a scheduled operation to Chennai,' an Air India Express spokesperson said in a statement.

The aircraft has since returned to the bay and further investigation is underway, 'for which we are coordinating with the regulator and airport authorities', the airline said.

The incident took place on the taxiway near the runway around 11 am, sources at the airport said.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) said in a statement that the wingtip vortices of both planes were badly damaged.

'A minor graze between a taxiing IndiGo aircraft and that of another carrier was reported from Kolkata Airport. The aircraft returned to bay for inspection and necessary action, as per protocol,' IndiGo said in a statement.

Consequently, IndiGo flight 6E-6152 between Kolkata and Darbhanga has been delayed, it said, adding that an alternate aircraft has been arranged to minimise delay and inconvenience to passengers.

IndiGo also said that 'an incident report will be submitted to DGCA in due course, as per protocol'.

The Air India Express passengers were being sent to Chennai in flights of various airlines, including its own, a spokesperson said.

The flight time for the passengers to Darbhanga was revised, an IndiGo spokesperson said.
Five Congress legislators on Wednesday threatened to resign if senior party leader and minister K H Muniyappa's son-in-law Chikka Peddanna was given a ticket to contest from Kolar in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, bringing into open the divisions in the outfit.

IMAGE: Karnataka minister K H Muniyappa with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D K Shivakumar at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru. Photograph: ANI Photo

The party is yet to announce its candidate in the segment, currently held by the Bharatiya Janata Party.

The five are opposed to Peddanna's candidature, which would give representation for the Left sect of Scheduled Castes.

The three MLAs from Kolar district -- Kothur G Manjunath (Kolar), K Y Nanjegowda (Malur) and MC Sudhakar (Chintamani) -- and two MLCs -- Anil Kumar and Naseer Ahmed (the political secretary to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah) -- want the ticket to be given to a candidate from Right sect of Scheduled Castes.

Sudhakar is the Higher Education Minister in the Siddaramaiah Cabinet.

S N Narayanaswamy (Bangarapet), another Congress MLA from the district, too said the ticket should be given to SC Right candidate, and that he will decide on his move, once the party decides on the Kolar ticket.

"This is continuation of a fight between two factions of the Kolar Congress, one led by food and civil supplies minister K H Muniyappa and another by former Karnataka assembly speaker K R Ramesh Kumar, vying for supremacy in the district," a party insider said.

Many see it as pressure tactics on the part of a section of Congress leaders in Kolar against Muniyappa and his 'family politics'.

The two MLCs met Legislative Council Chairman Basavaraj Horatti and showed their resignation letters to journalists.

The MLAs were planning to travel to Mangaluru to meet Assembly Speaker U T Khader there, but later cancelled their trip as the latter himself said he is on his way to Bengaluru. They are said to have visited the Assembly secretariat.

However, the legislators later said they have decided to wait following instructions from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the party state President D K Shivakumar on their future course of action.

Urban Development Minister B S Suresha, who is Kolar district in-charge Minister, rushed to 'Vidhana Soudha' to meet legislators and sought to convince them not to resign.

Speaking to reporters at Council Chairman's office Suresha said, "On getting to know that legislators are displeased, the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, AICC General Secretary and AICC president asked me to pacify and get them back, and the issue will be resolved amicably. I have informed them of the same thing and they have agreed."

Both chief minister and deputy chief minister, who are on a tour, will be back in Bengaluru tonight and the issue will be discussed thereafter, he said, adding that Kolar ticket has not been announced yet; it will be announced in a couple of days.

Sudhakar said: "Minister Suresha communicated to us the party leadership's instructions, it will also be late by the time the Speaker comes to Bengaluru. We will see what the leadership says and decide our next course of action."

He said they have not yet quit, but have taken the prescribed format of resignation letter from the assembly secretariat.

Nanjegowda said the legislators had together shared their opinion with the party high command regarding the Lok Sabha candidate the legislators and sought change, considering the presence of SC-Right community in large numbers in Kolar.

He said, "Muniyappa is now a Minister, one of his daughters Roopakala Shashidhar is currently a MLA , so we had said the ticket should not be given to their family and someone else from the SC-Right community should be chosen. We have not recommended any names. Even if the high command wants to give it to the Left community we are fine, but change and don't support family politics is our stand."

Muniyappa, a seven-time MP and a former Union Minister, returned to state politics after losing 2019 Lok Sabha polls. He is currently MLA from Devanahalli assembly segment and Minister for Food and Civil Supplies.

Reacting to the developments, Muniyappa said during a recent meeting it was decided by all Congress leaders of the constituency that everyone will abide by the decision of the high command, chief minister and deputy chief minister.

"Today's is a new development. I don't know about it. I will abide by the party's decision."

Muniyappa further said, "This (SC Left) is a big community, the whole state is watching. I'm a disciplined soldier of the party and hope that the high command will take a decision considering all these things."

Stating that he had met Congress president M Mallikarjun Kharge and requested for an 'opportunity', he said it has been a practice to give two seats to SC-Left and two to SC-Right; for seven-eight times SC-Left candidate has won from Kolar as Congress is strong in the segment.

Congress has so far given a ticket to B N Chandrappa (Chitradurga) from SC-Left, Kharge's son-in-law (Gulbarga) from SC-Right, and according to sources it is likely to give the Chamarajanagar ticket to Minister H C Mahadevappa's son Sunil Bose, who is from SC-Right.

Speaking to reporters in Mysuru, Siddaramaiah said it is true that there is discontent in Kolar, but the candidate has not been announced yet.

He said they want the ticket to be given to the SC-Right candidate, and the issue will be resolved amicably.

Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress chief Shivakumar too in Karwar said, the party has not decided on the candidate yet and there is no need for anyone to be worried, and that everyone should abide by party discipline.

"I have spoken to everyone, they have agreed. I'm going back to Bengaluru and will resolve everything. We will have to keep the state and party interest in mind," he added.

Meanwhile, Horatti said the MLCs have not yet submitted their resignation, and have sought time.

"They sought an appointment to give resignation, but now they don't want to give. I cannot take from them forcefully. If they give, I will accept," he said.
In a strong statement on the Israel-Palestine issue, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that whatever the rights and wrongs in the whole conflict between Israel and Palestine, the underlying fact is that the Palestinians have been denied their rights and homeland.

IMAGE: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar meets Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Haji Hasan, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

He stated that what transpired on October 7 was a 'terrorist attack' but also acknowledged, in reference to the Israeli counteroffensive in Gaza, that every response must take into account something called international humanitarian law.

Jaishankar, who is on a visit to Malaysia, was interacting with the Indian community during an event.

"How different pulls and pressures can be. On one hand, what happened on October 7 was terrorism. On the other hand, nobody would countenance the death of innocent civilians. Countries may be justified in their own minds in responding, but you cannot have a response that...every response must take into account something called international humanitarian law," Jaishankar said.

"The fact is whatever the rights and wrongs of the issue, there is underlying issue of the rights of the Palestinians and the fact that they have been denied their homeland," he added.

Hamas launched a horrific terror attack in Israel on October 7 killing more than 1,200 people and holding more than 250 people as hostages, out of which over 100 are still in captivity.

In response, Israel launched a strong counteroffensive in the Gaza Strip targeting the Hamas units.

However, the operation has also resulted in civilian casualties. According to Gaza ministry, more than 32,000 people have been killed in Gaza including women and children.

Notably, PM Modi was one of the first global leaders to condemn the horrific terror attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7.

However, India has also continued with its weight behind the 'two-state solution' to the long-running Israel-Palestine conflict.

Meanwhile, Jaishankar is on an official visit to Malaysia, followed by his visits to Singapore and the Philippines.

Earlier in the day, he called on Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and expressed admiration for his vision aimed at fostering stronger ties between India and Malaysia.

He also emphasised that this vision will serve as a catalyst for crafting a more ambitious agenda to advance the relationship between the two nations.

He also held a round-table meeting with CEOs in Malaysia and appreciated their growing interest in partnering with Indian industries.

'A productive round-table meeting with CEOs in Malaysia. Glad to hear about growing interest in partnering with Indian industries. Encouraged them to join in India's growth story. Discussed geopolitical developments that can provide more opportunities in business interactions,' the EAM posted on X.
He fought Ajmal Kasab and his LeT colleague Abu Ismail, received splinter injuries and held them off till he fell unconscious.

Image used only for representation. Photograph: ANI Photo

On Wednesday, 16 years later, Sadanand Vasant Date was appointed head of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the specialised agency that came up in the aftermath of the three-day terror siege of Mumbai.

Date, a 1990 Indian Police Service officer of the Maharashtra cadre who once sold newspapers in Pune to financially support his family, was honoured with the President's Police medal for gallantry for his role in what has come to be known as the 26/11 attack.

Only fitting perhaps that the brave and decorated officer takes over as director general of the agency specifically tasked with probing terror cases.

On that fateful night of November 26, 2008, Date, who was then additional commissioner of police, central region, received a call about terrorists firing indiscriminately near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.

A short while earlier, 10 terrorists had sneaked in in a boat and fanned out across Mumbai.

By the time, Date and his team reached CST, Kasab and Ismail, both members of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, had left and occupied the roof of the Cama hospital nearby. The team followed them there.

The police team was operating blind. They knew that two people were up there but did not have any information about the arms and ammunition in the possession of the terrorists. Nonetheless, the Date-led team decided to take on the two.

In retaliation to the gunshots, the terrorists lobbed hand grenades at the approaching police team and Date was hit by splinters in his hands and legs.

Undeterred by the injury, Date continued to fire at the two terrorists besides informing other senior officers about their location.

After holding them for an hour, Date fell unconscious after losing a lot of blood.

The team's swift response and decisive actions were instrumental in managing the crisis at the hospital for the patients, including scores of women and children.

The night saw 18 Mumbai Police personnel laying down their lives.

Among those killed were senior IPS officers Hemant Karkare and Ashok Kamte besides encounter specialist Vijay Salaskar and assistant sub-inspector Tuka Ram Omble, who was instrumental in arresting Kasab, the Pakistani LeT operative caught alive and hanged in November 2012.

Ismail was killed by Omble.

Date, 57, who was Maharashtra ATS chief till Wednesday, also served as Deputy Inspector General in the Central Bureau of Investigation, Inspector General (Ops) in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Commissioner of Police for Mira-Bhayandar and Vasai-Virar city (MBVV) near Mumbai.

He has an MCom as well as a doctorate in economic offences from Pune university.

Date will take over the reins of the central counter-terrorism agency after the superannuation of current director general Dinkar Gupta on March 31 and serve in the post till retirement on December 31, 2026.

It was his initiative to set up an Anti-Terrorism Cell (ATC) at every police station in Mumbai.

This model was later adopted at all police stations in the state.

The IPS officer also played a key role in the formation of the Force One, the specialised commando unit of the Maharashtra police formed in 2010 on the lines of the elite National Security Guard (NSG).

During his tenure as Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) in Mumbai, Date had started a lab to monitor content of social media platforms.

He also set up a centre to train officers posted in the Special Branch of the Mumbai Police.

After serving in various capacities in his home state Maharashtra, Date went on central deputation where he served in the CRPF and was also posted in the Naxal-affected Chhattisgarh.

He also worked in the Union Law Ministry.

After returning to his parent cadre, Date was appointed the first head of the MBVV police commissionerate, which covers parts of Mumbai's adjoining Thane and Palghar districts.

After joining the Indian Police Service (IPS), he was posted as a probationary officer in coastal

Ratnagiri district, where he built reputation of an upright cop by cracking down on criminals and illegal activities under his jurisdiction.

Date, who grew up in Pune, came from a humble ground. He was academically bright and went on to crack the tough UPSC examination for entry into civil services.

He received the Humphrey Fellowship and studied topics such as 'Economic Crime and Organised Crime and its Nature'.

Besides handling sophisticated firearms with ease, Date is also adept at wielding the pen.

The senior IPS officer has authored a Marathi book titled 'Varditlya Mansachya Nondi'.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

A few passing clouds. Low 32F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few passing clouds. Low 32F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
With New York State budget negotiations underway, there's no sign that Gov. Kathy Hochul's proposal to create an Empire AI consortium to lead responsible development of artificial intelligence will fail to get the $275 million it needs to become reality this year.

But just in case, its proposed hub, the University at Buffalo, recently invited state officials and members of Western New Yorks Albany delegation to campus to pledge support for Empire AI and UB as its home base.

UB Provost Scott Weber and Vice President for Research and Economic Development Venu Govindaraju welcomed New York Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes and four other state legislators to UB last week for what felt like a pep rally for UBs role in AI research and the future of Empire AI.

Peoples-Stokes told a crowd of UB faculty, including many already leading AI research, that she sees Hochuls vision as an idea everyone can support.

The State Assembly included $250 million for the consortium in its budget plan, and Hochul has commitments for at least $125 million in private funding from the Simons Foundation, Bloomberg LP co-founder Tom Secunda and other tech investors.

Empire AI founding members would be SUNY, CUNY, Columbia University, Cornell University, New York University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the Simons Foundation. UB would house a new advanced AI supercomputing center where public research institutions can share and collaborate on best practices for safe and responsible AI.

This consortium would be great not just for UB, but for all of New York States higher education institutions, Peoples-Stokes said. And I cant see any way possible that any of our elected representatives, whether its the Western New York delegation or anyone else in the state, would deny this opportunity for Empire AI to happen right here at UB and benefit all of higher ed.

State Sen. Sean Ryan, who chairs the senate Committee on Commerce, Economic Development and Small Business, said he has been telling his colleagues about UBs history of AI, including Govindarajus pioneering work on machine learning for handwriting recognition that streamlined the U.S. Postal Services mail processing in the 1990s.

When we talk about Empire AI, the first question you hear is, Is this money going to Buffalo because the governor is from Buffalo?  Ryan said. Well, it probably helps a little bit, but I gotta tell you what else: the University at Buffalo has been doing AI before anyone even called it AI. And Venu here is the OG of AI. That is honestly why theyre going to host this institute at the University at Buffalo, for your 20 years of leadership in this field.

Ryan said its New Yorks job to explore and invest in industries that are going to grow, including those, like AI, that you dont necessarily want the private sector to do all on their own.

We can make this research applicable to grow our economy, but also to make UB a destination for researchers with ambition and good ideas, Ryan added. Where do I go to apply my brain power in North America? If youre in this field, we want the answer to be clear: You come to UB because thats where its all getting done.

State Sen. Pat Burke and Assembly Members Karen McMahon and Jon Rivera also promised to promote the project, as did former New York City Council Member Marjorie Velazquez, now vice president of policy for the Tech: NYC network of tech leaders and Mo Sumbundu, assistant director of Empire State Development and Hochuls Upstate New York liaison.

Schumer, Gillibrand announce $2 million for WNY higher ed, youth violence measures

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer and U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand have secured $2.1 million for projects across Western New York in the just-passed bipartisan funding package for fiscal year 2024.

Niagara University will get $1 million for an integrated STEM Center, a new 20,000-square-foot academic building to house STEM programs on its Lewiston campus. The investment builds on the $1.4 million that Schumer and Gillibrand helped secure for the university to jump-start its Academic Innovation Hub in downtown Niagara Falls last year, and an additional $1.3 million federal economic development grant they delivered for the project.

The federal funding also will support local projects to prevent youth violence prevention, provide resources to first responders and bolster academic programs at St. Bonaventure University, the legislators said.

St. Bonaventure will get $750,000 for upgrades to the media capabilities at its Jandoli School of Communications, including TV and radio equipment, podcast studios and supporting technology.

The Community Action Organization of WNY will get $310,000 for its Buffalo Youth Violence Prevention Demonstration Project, which aims to offer wraparound services with community partner organizations to provide alternatives to the traditional criminal justice path for at-risk youth.

The Wyoming County Emergency Operations Center will also receive $58,000 for the Wyoming County Emergency Operations Center for equipment needs.

Welcome to Buffalo Next, which brings you the latest coverage on the changing Buffalo Niagara economy  from real estate to health care to startups. Read more at BuffaloNext.com.

THE LATEST

"It's a bloodbath." Fisher-Price is cutting 75 to 100 jobs in East Aurora.

The Buffalo Niagara unemployment rate is heading higher.

The Locker Room conversion project won a key approval, but financing remains a challenge.

Stare at the eclipse without special glasses? A UB eye clinic on April 8 will be ready to help.

Personal seat licenses at the new Buffalo Bills stadium will cost a bundle.

It's steady as she goes for the Buffalo Niagara job market.

Valentino Dixon was wrongfully convicted. Now he's opening a cannabis business.

Why the Buffalo Niagara housing market this spring looks a lot like it did last year.

A new medical building is coming to Kensington-Bailey.

More apartments have been added to a Buffalo firehouse project.

What does Doug Jemal have in mind for The Buffalo News complex he acquired?

What local colleges and universities are doing for the eclipse.

National Grid is planning some upgrades to its local power transmission system.

What the new Buffalo Bills and Sabres COO has to say about his plans.

There are signs the massive Amazon project in the Town of Niagara is starting to move forward.

What's new at the ballpark this season?

The Buffalo News complex downtown is set to have a new owner.

Buffalo Bills season ticket holders will have to wait to learn how much personal seat licenses will cost.

A Hamburg manufacturer plans to expand.

A developer revised a controversial Hamburg housing project to include commercial space.

A coffee shop  and possibly apartments  could be coming to a busy Amherst intersection.

ICYMI

Five reads from Buffalo Next:

1. From the assembly line to the front office at the GM engine plant.

2. Why the Buffalo Black Billion has struggled to gain traction.

3. Why shoppers prefer power centers over the mall.

4. The office market still is changing, four years after Covid-19.

5. What could the future hold for the site of Erie Community College's South Campus?

The Buffalo Next team gives you the big picture on the regions economic revitalization. Email tips to buffalonext@buffnews.com or reach Buffalo Next Editor David Robinson at 716-849-4435.
People fill the lower level of the Bellows Falls Opera House to participate in the Rockingham Town Meeting on Monday, March 6, 2023.
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Thai advocates for LGBTQ rights hailed a major step forward Wednesday as the parliament passed a same-sex marriage bill in a landslide, paving the way for the nation to become the first in Southeast Asia to recognise marriage equality.

While Thailand enjoys a welcoming reputation for the international LGBTQ community, Thai activists have struggled for decades against conservative attitudes and values.

The bill sailed through on 399 to 10 votes in the lower house, although it must still be approved by the Senate and endorsed by the king before becoming the law of the land.

"Thailand is finally accepted and recognised as truly 'paradise for LGBTQI'," Chanya Rattanathada, 27, told AFP in the halls outside the voting chamber.

Inside, a small burst of cheers and clapping accompanied the final vote, with one representative waving a rainbow flag.

"Today, society has proved to us that they care about LGBT rights," said Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, an MP with the progressive Move Forward Party, which has long pushed for LGBTQ rights.

"Now we finally will have the same rights as others."

The proposal will change references to "men", "women", "husbands" and "wives" in the country's marriage law to gender-neutral terms.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said he was "proud of our pride" following approval of the bill.

"The passing (of this law) in the parliament today is a proud moment for Thai society who will walk together towards social equality and respect differences," he wrote on social media website X.

Across Asia only Taiwan and Nepal recognise same-sex marriage. Last year, India's highest court deferred the decision to parliament, and Hong Kong's top court stopped just short of granting full marriage rights.

- 'Making everyone equal' -

"It's a huge step for our country -- it is the first in Southeast Asia," Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn, a spokesperson with activist group Fortify Rights, told AFP.

Mookdapa expressed hope that the later stages of the bill would progress smoothly, so that her country "will be on par with the international level in terms of LGBT rights".

The vote follows a decision by Srettha's cabinet last year that gave the go-ahead for the parliament debate.

The prime minister has been vocal in his support for the LGBTQ community, making the marriage equality policy a signature issue and telling reporters last year that the change would strengthen family structures.

Following the vote, Pheu Thai party spokesperson Danuphorn Punnakanta welcomed the decision of the lower house.

"Today, Thailand is one step ahead in terms of making everyone equal," he said.

Describing the law as one for "all Thai people", he emphasised that it would not violate heterosexual couples' rights -- but expand them for all relationships.

"It's only a win-win situation."

While Thailand has a reputation for tolerance, much of the Buddhist-majority country remains conservative and LGBTQ people, while highly visible, still face barriers and discrimination.

Activists have been pushing for same-sex marriage rights for more than a decade, but in a kingdom where politics is regularly upended by coups and mass street protests, the advocacy did not get far.

In 2022 Thai lawmakers gave initial approval to two bills that would allow same-sex marriages and two others that would permit civil partnerships.

But the legislation was dropped when parliament was dissolved to pave the way for a general election held last year.

Outside parliament, 18-year-old Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd told AFP there was a lot of excitement around the new law as it moved towards final approval.

But for now, they said: "We are happy."

tak-rbu/sco
RUTLAND  A leading public defender, a law school professor and a longtime federal prosecutor are in the running to become the next U.S. District Court Judge in Vermont.

The names of Assistant Federal Defender Stephen L. Barth, Vermont Law School Professor Jessica C. Brown and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael P. Drescher were on the approved list compiled by a special screening committee, according to two sources familiar with the process, but not authorized to speak publicly.

All three candidates declined public comment about filling the post.

A screening panel, after completing interviews in January, sent the three names to U.S. Sens. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. and Peter Welch, D-Vt. The senators and their staff subsequently conducted interviews with the expectation for at least two recommendations to be sent to President Joe Biden, who makes the final nomination.

It is unclear when Sanders and Welch will ask Vermont residents to offer public comments on the finalists for the lifetime appointment.

Chief Federal Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford, 69, disclosed in June 2023 during a court hearing  and a subsequent newspaper interview  that he would be taking Senior Status in August 2024. The designation will allow Crawford, who was appointed in 2014, to have a say on the workload assigned to him by the court clerk's office.

Crawford's replacement will be primarily assigned to the federal courthouse on West Street in Rutland.

Judge Christina Reiss, the other fulltime district court judge in Vermont since 2009, is assigned to the courthouse on Elmwood Avenue in Burlington. Reiss, who previously served as Chief Judge in Vermont, 2010 to 2017, will regain that title in July.

Barth, 49, of Shelburne has been an assistant federal defender in Vermont since 2010 and handled many high-profile cases. He graduated with honors from the University of Vermont in 1996 and from New York University School of Law in 1999.

Barth spent two years with the New York City law firm Dewey Ballentine before moving to the Federal Defender's Office in San Diego. By 2007 he had been named a supervisor and led a trial team of about 7 lawyers while still maintaining his own active load at both the trial and appeals level. His wife, Michelle Anderson Barth, is a lawyer and represents clients assigned to the Federal Drug Court in Burlington.

Brown, 53, joined the Vermont Law and Graduate School as an assistant professor of criminal law in July 2021 and was later named associate director of the Center for Justice Reform. She was named its director in August 2023, two months after it received a $975,000 federal grant secured through Sen. Sanders.

She has 24 years as a public defender, mostly in New Hampshire, including four as a federal defender. She was a state public defender in the Granite State from 1997 to 2007 before joining the federal office from 2007 to 2011. Brown moved to the Chittenden County Public Defender's Office as a staff attorney from 2011 to 2016 and then served as the supervising attorney from 2016 to 2021.

Drescher, 58, of Hinesburg, has handled several high-profile cases since joining the U.S. Attorney's Office in Vermont in early 2002. U.S. Attorney Nikolas "Kolo" Kerest named Drescher as the chief assistant in the Vermont office during a reorganization last year.

He had worked earlier at the Burlington law firm then known as Sheehey, Furlong, Rendell & Behm, where he did both civil and criminal work. Drescher has the distinction of squaring off against Sen. Welch in a civil lawsuit in federal court, according to records. Drescher is a 1987 graduate of Dartmouth University, did a stint in the Peace Corps and graduated from Northwestern University School of Law in 1995.

The annual pay for federal district court judges was bumped this year from $232,600 to $243,300.

The federal judgeship is considered one of the top legal posts in Vermont and the screening is important because it is a lifetime appointment.

The tradition is for the two senators to forward two names to the president, who will make a formal nomination for one of them. The nominee must be approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee and eventually the full senate.

Sanders, who became Vermont's senior senator last year, has taken the lead on the screening process. His senate office is said to be the only authorized source for the release of information on the judgeship.

Sanders' office has said little in response to inquiries over the past few months, including again on Friday. Sanders' office also has declined to provide the timetable for the selection process and the number of lawyers that initially applied for the post.

Biden's White House is under the gun to try to fill as many judicial posts as possible in case he needs to vacate the office after the November election. Biden had said when he ran for president that he would be looking for women, people of color and other minorities to fill federal judgeships.

This marks the first time Sanders, a non-lawyer, is taking the lead in finding a lawyer to be a federal judge in Vermont.

U.S. Sen. Patrick J. Leahy, D-Vt., who retired after 48 years in January 2023, was a lawyer and served on the Senate Judiciary Committee. Leahy had a long list of lawyers that he could confide in and some that worked on his political campaigns.

By comparison, Sanders, who has expressed public disdain during his career for lawyers, has fewer in his deep inner circle in Vermont to consult for the judgeship.

Sanders helped create a seven-member committee of lawyers to screen applications. Some members of the bar and the general public expressed concern over the lack or limited experience some screeners have in federal court.

A media investigation revealed that each of the three people appointed by Sanders for the screening committee had zero cases filed in U.S. District Court in Vermont.

Paul Burns, the executive director of the Vermont Public Interest Research Group in Montpelier, Xusana Davis, executive director of Racial Equity for the state, and Barbara Prine, a staff attorney at Vermont Legal Aid in Burlington are all listed as never appearing for a case in federal court in Vermont, according to its computer system known as PACER.

Davis and Burns also are unauthorized to practice in the federal court in Vermont because they have not gone through the admission process, records show. Prine is admitted to the federal bar in Vermont.

Meanwhile, three other lawyers on the judicial screening committee have been very active in federal court in Vermont. They are David Silver, a Bennington defense lawyer and former Vermont Judicial Nominating Board member, Lisa Shelkrot, a Burlington lawyer, and Shap Smith, a former Speaker of the Vermont House who works at a Burlington law firm.

The busiest among the committee is Shelkot, who has been involved in 187 criminal and civil federal cases in Vermont. Silver has been involved in 47 federal civil and criminal cases in his career in Vermont, the records note. They were both appointed to the committee by the Vermont Bar Association.

Welch selected Smith, who has appeared in 83 federal cases in his career  all on the civil side in Vermont, the records show.

Welch's other appointment on the screening committee, Eleanor "Ella" Spottswood, has been involved in 11 cases in federal court in Vermont while serving with the Vermont Attorney General's office. She left the AG's office late last year to become a senior staff attorney with Planned Parenthood of America in New York.

Spottswood is a former New Hampshire public defender and is chair of the Vermont Judicial Nominating Board, which helps screen state judges.

Meanwhile, nobody was selected for the screening committee from the offices that deal with federal judges in Vermont on a daily basis. They include the court clerk's office, the U.S. Marshal, U.S. Probation, U.S. Attorney and the Federal Defender.
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Hannah Sorila of Brattleboro is a member of Southern Vermont for Palestine. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Mostly clear early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Low 32F. WNW winds at 10 to 15 mph, decreasing to less than 5 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Low 32F. WNW winds at 10 to 15 mph, decreasing to less than 5 mph.
Constance B. Eve, a teacher, civic leader and wife of former Deputy Assembly Speaker Arthur O. Eve, died Tuesday, her family reported. She was 91.

She was born in West Virginia, earned a bachelor's degree in English and drama from West Virginia State College and a master's degree from New York University.

She taught English in the Buffalo schools and was a professor of English at Erie Community College.

In 1980, she founded Women for Human Rights and Dignity, which helps women improve their lives through counseling, education and other services.

A Buffalo News Citizen of the Year in 1997, she received numerous honors and was featured in national magazines. Details of funeral arrangements were not immediately available.

- Dale Anderson
A claim has been shared in Chinese-language social media posts that Google abandoned the Chinese market due to the domestic requirements asking foreign firms to store data in China.

But the claim is misleading. Google had its servers in China before exiting the country in 2010. The primary reason for the American tech giants departure from the Chinese market was its refusal to comply with the Chinese governments content censorship.

The claim was shared on Douyin, a Chinese version of TikTok, on March 10, by a user Li Sanjin Alex Sees the World with more than 3 million followers.

Commenting on the U.S.s latest decision to ban Tiktok, the user claimed the U.S. specifically targeted the Chinese app by creating a new law to push it out although it complied with all American domestic laws.

Someone might say China [also] banned it [foreign social media platforms] anyway. Facebook, Twitter, Google, its all equal [banned in China]. You are dead wrong, said the user.

As long as they keep their data at home [in China]  you can develop in the Chinese market at will. Google, they disagreed. [to follow the domestic regulations] So they gave up the Chinese market.

Screenshot of the account of a Douyin user Li Sanjin Alex Sees the World. (Duoyin)





Li Sanjin Alex Sees the World was among many Chinese online users who criticized the U.S.s move to ban TikTok, while citing Googles decision to exit China as an example to compare how both the American and Chinese government treat foreign companies differently.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill last Wednesday calling for the apps Chinese developer ByteDance to divest from the company or be booted out of U.S. app stores.

The bill passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, receiving 352 votes in favor, and only 65 against.

Many House legislators have argued that the app could allow Beijing to access user data and influence Americans through the wildly popular social media platforms addictive algorithm. The White House has backed the bill, with President Joe Biden saying he would sign it if it passes Congress.

But the claim is misleading.

Googles China exit

A review of archived documents reveals that before Google announced its exit from the Chinese market in 2010, its servers were located within China.

The American tech giant even had joint ventures or collaborations with various Chinese companies in different businesses.

Google also cooperated with the Chinese governments request for self-censorship of content.

In fact, Google stated that due to sophisticated cyber attacks originating from China and requests from the Chinese government for censorship, the company decided to redirect its services designed for mainland China users to servers in Hong Kong.

China has numerous laws regarding content censorship.

The Administrative Measures for the Security Protection of International Networking of Computer Information Networks is one example.

Under the measure, Chinas Ministry of Public Security is responsible for protecting the connection between the computer network in China and the international Internet.

No unit or individual shall use the international networking to endanger state security, divulge state secrets, nor shall it/he/she infringe on national, social and collective interests and the legitimate rights and interests of citizens, nor shall it/he/she engage in illegal criminal activities, the Article 4 of the measure reads.

AFCL has previously reported on Chinas increasing control over the Internet industry.

TikTok ban?

TikTok, a highly popular app owned by a Chinese firm, faces scrutiny due to the significant control the Chinese government has over its national companies. Critics fear that this influence might allow the Chinese government to collect personal data from American users or manipulate American politics through TikTok.

The U.S.s latest move is aimed at the ownership structure of the app, while establishing clear legal compliance norms.

With the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, ByteDance, TikToks parent company, has 180 days after the law takes effect to sell the app business and hold no more than 20% of the shares to continue operating in the U.S. market.

The new bill wouldnt remove TikTok from peoples phones. But it would prevent Apple and Google from distributing the app from their app stores, and maintaining the app via updates, which would eventually make the app unusable.

The bill would also ban U.S. websites from hosting TikTok.

Edited by Taejun Kang and Malcolm Foster.

Asia Fact Check Lab (AFCL) was established to counter disinformation in todays complex media environment. We publish fact-checks, media-watches and in-depth reports that aim to sharpen and deepen our readers understanding of current affairs and public issues. If you like our content, you can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X.
The move comes amid fears that the new security law will boost the risk of doing business in the city.

Alibaba Chairman Joseph Tsai speaks to journalists during the companys 11.11 Global Shopping Festival in Shanghai, on Nov. 11, 2018.

Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba has pulled a planned initial public offering in Hong Kong of its logistics subsidiary Cainiao, sparking fears that the city is losing its shine as a financial center amid a crackdown on dissent.

Chairman Joseph Tsai told an extraordinary meeting of shareholders on Tuesday that the company had halted plans for the Cainiao IPO because "the market in Asia is sluggish and lacks liquidity, so there is no point in pushing forward."

The announcement came as a second national security law, called Article 23, took effect in Hong Kong, which critics say will create a minefield for businesses operating in the city, due to its broad and vague definitions of what constitutes a "state secret," or "collusion with foreign forces."

While Alibaba didn't cite the Article 23 legislation as a factor in the decision, the move feeds into concerns that an ongoing crackdown on public dissent is having a negative impact on Hong Kong's image as a global financial center.

Announcing the decision in a filing to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Alibaba said it would acquire the remainder of the company's shares from minority shareholders.

The company plans to "align part of Cainiao's business to better realize synergies" with other companies in the group and to support a "long-term strategic expansion of its global logistics network," according to the statement.

Alibaba's offline retail chain Freshippo also delayed its Hong Kong IPO in September 2023, citing weak sentiment for consumer stocks, to await a more favorable market, according to media reports.

Murky outlook

Speaking on RFA's Financial Freedom talk show, current affairs commentator Joseph Ngan said Hong Kong's rating as an IPO location has deteriorated in recent years, particularly after Chinese regulators forced Alibaba founder Jack Ma to withdraw planned Shanghai and Hong Kong IPOs for fin-tech subsidiary Ant Group in 2020.

"Alibaba's fortunes haven't been very good in recent years ... and the mainland Chinese economy is growing slowly while Alibaba is clearly facing huge competition," he said.

Victoria Harbor in Hong Kong, July 6, 2019. (Andy Wong/AP)





Financial commentator Simon Lee agreed, adding that a weak yuan had compounded the issue.

"The bigger reason is the exchange rate issue," Lee told the show. "Is now the right time and the right environment for a mainland Chinese company to raise funds in Hong Kong? Will the stock even rise afterwards -- if not, then why offer the shares?"

"Whether Hong Kong can revitalize its stock market remains to be seen -- it's no longer easy to do," Lee said.

Slumping market

Former investment banking lawyer-turned-rights activist Samuel Bickett said Alibaba hadn't hidden its reason for the cancellation of its IPO, which was the recent downturn in the Hong Kong stock market.

The benchmark Hang Seng index has tumbled 43% over the past five years, and is currently trading at similar levels to 1997, shortly after the city's handover to China.

Even government attempts to rescue the market were unlikely to make the city an attractive location for future listings, he said.

The Hong Kong Stock Exchange, June 15, 2012. (Kin Cheung/AP)





"It seems clear that while there are elements in the Hong Kong government that very much want to attract more investment and remain relatively open, those elements of the government have very much lost out to the national security elements of the government," Bickett told RFA in an interview on Monday.

"But as long as that situation persists, we're not going to see a turn towards more openness and more security for banks, for their employees, for companies trying to IPO, for any sort of prospects for investment," he said.

Meanwhile, Ngan told a separate RFA talk show that ratings agencies like Moody's would have good reason to downgrade Hong Kong's credit rating further in the wake of the Article 23 legislation, which took effect on Saturday, because it will likely increase the cost of corporate borrowing.

But there are also greater risks and costs around corporate compliance due to the new legislation, despite reassurances from Hong Kong officials that it will be business as usual, he said.

"In future, any decision on business operations, including selecting business partners, finding new funding and shareholders, or even something as simple as hiring a junior employee, must involve conducting a background check on the identity of the other party, including any national security risk from the other party," Ngan said.

"These are the new compliance costs for doing business [in Hong Kong]."

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.
Shanghai doctor Duan Tao says the number of beds in obstetrics clinics is falling 'every day.'

A prominent Chinese obstetrician has taken to social media to lament the closure of obstetrics departments in Chinese hospitals, prompting social media comments that the ruling Chinese Communist Party needs to make life better for young people if it wants to reverse falling birth rates.

"Save obstetrics!" wrote Duan Tao, obstetrician at the Shanghai No. 1 Maternal and Infant Health Hospital, in the title of his post to the social media platform Weibo at the end of last month, following a meeting of obstetrics department heads in Shanghai's Pudong New Area.

"One man who has been a director of obstetrics for more than 20 years wept as he told the meeting that his department had recently been shut down," Duan wrote, pointing to a fall in births from 17.86 million in 2016 to just 9.02 million in 2023.

"The government asked hospitals to add more beds after childbirth was liberalized [in May 2021]," Duan wrote. "The number of births has fallen ... and the number of obstetric outpatient clinics and obstetric beds is falling every day."

Communist Party leader Xi Jinping last October called on women to focus on raising families, and the National People's Congress this month started looking at ways to boost flagging birth rates and kick-start the shrinking population, including flexible working policies, coverage for fertility treatment and extended maternity leave.

But young women in today's China are increasingly choosing not to marry or have kids, citing huge inequalities and patriarchal attitudes that still run through family life, not to mention the sheer economic cost of raising a family.

According to Duan's post, more than a dozen obstetrics departments closed in 2022, with further closures reported in Zhejiang, Guangzhou and Guangxi last year. So far this year, three more facilities have closed.

Trending on Weibo

The topic has been trending on Weibo in recent days, with some comments claiming to have recently visited obstetrics departments packed with pregnant women, and others complaining that young people have no time, money or energy to raise families amid the economic downturn and rampant youth unemployment.

"Let young people only work 8 hours a day so they have time to have sex," Weibo user @Reflection_arc_super_long_star_silhouette_9 suggested. "Otherwise, they're totally exhausted after working overtime, let alone having the time to conceive and raise a child."

Pregnant women rest inside a corridor displaying posters with information on breastfeeding at Tiantan Hospitals maternity ward in Beijing, Aug. 7, 2013. (Andy Wong/AP)

"Does it matter whether we have children or not?" @Dr._Zeng_who_performs_hernia_surgery wanted to know. "Perhaps more advanced technology will make in vitro fertilization possible, just like in the science fiction movies."

@Mr._Sixth_Floor wrote: "[People] are thinking about the cost of their life choices, their quality of life, and their own fulfillment."

Weibo celebrity @Dr._Xu_Chao seemed to agree. "For many young people, the current cost of living, high housing prices, physical and mental exhaustion, etc. are all important factors that hinder the desire to have children," the user wrote.

"Current work pressures leave them no time to care about things other than survival, and they are feeling suffocated by unattainable housing prices ... and don't want that kind of life for their kids," they wrote, adding: "First, save young people!"

@Yadong added: "Lets save young people first. Only after we do that can we have more children," while @Caibaoer commented that "high housing prices ... and being laid off at 35 are the best form of contraception."

Hospitals 'shouldn't be doing this'

A resident of Shandong province who gave only the surname Lu for fear of reprisals said hospitals should still offer services, as they receive government funding.

"Hospitals are nonprofits, and shouldn't be doing this," she said. "Low birth rates shouldn't mean that hospitals can just shut down their obstetrics departments."

She echoed comments on social media about the general lack of interest in raising children in today's China.

"This is about the situation that people find themselves in regarding how well they eat, how often they are sick and so on," Lu said.

"That together with rising pressures like housing and transportation means they are giving up on having kids."

Lus comments were also echoed by an anonymous blogger on the Sohu.com platform, who wrote that people and children are getting sick more often than they used to before the pandemic, and have no energy for life.

Everyone is much more tired since the pandemic, compared with before, the blogger wrote. We have no family and no life of our own, yet the higher ups dont want us to rest.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Roseanne Gerin.


The International Crisis Group says China and UN Security Council members should seek a coordinated response.

(Office of the Commander in Chief of Defense Services via AP)

Chinas apparent unhappiness with Myanmars military junta has created an opportunity for an international consensus on how to address the countrys post-coup political crisis, a Brussels-based think tank said in a report on Wednesday.

The report from the International Crisis Group, or ICG, pointed to Chinas tacit support for the Operation 1027 offensive against military strongholds in northern Myanmar that began last October and dealt the junta a resounding defeat in a strategic enclave on the Chinese border.

The ICG also noted Beijings annoyance with the juntas failure to act against the numerous scam centers along the border that have targeted Chinese nationals in recent years.

Beijings displeasure has not, however, translated into disengagement, the group said in Scam Centres and Ceasefires: China-Myanmar Ties Since the Coup.

A traffic police officer stands near a billboard in Naypyidaw welcoming Chinese President Xi Jinping, Jan. 17, 2020. (Aung Shine Oo/AP)





There is room for different actors to work together on improving outcomes in Myanmar, it said. For its part, China should resist overly transactional or short-term approaches in favor of promoting long-term stability.

Beijing can do this because it is the preeminent diplomatic force in Myanmar, having more influence with many of the countrys key protagonists than any other foreign power, the report said.

Possible coordinated response

Chinese President Xi Jinping had built warm relations with the government of Aung San Kyi Suu and was preparing several major infrastructure projects across Myanmar, including a deep sea port. He signed several memorandums of understanding during a January 2020 visit to the country.

But the Feb. 1, 2021, military coup detat was an unwelcome complication for relations between the two countries, bringing insecurity and uncertainty to Myanmar and making big investments unviable, the report said.

It has also left Myanmar in turmoil as fighting among military troops, anti-junta forces and ethnic armies has occurred in much of northern and western Myanmar, leaving villages destroyed and hundreds of thousands of people displaced.

Since the coup, Beijing has declined to normalize relations with the regime and hasnt invited junta leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, to China despite much lobbying.

But Beijing has still sought to maintain relations with all of the main interested parties to preserve its leverage and stop geopolitical rivals from capitalizing on turmoil, the report noted.

Thats left room for China and other countries  including members of the U.N. Security Council  to agree on an approach to the crisis, the report said.

Dialogue with Council members could preserve the possibility of a coordinated response if the situation in Myanmar keeps deteriorating, the report said.

Shells land in Chinese territory

The civil war, now in its third year, has spilled over the border on occasion.

In early January, stray artillery fell in Chinas Yunnan province during fighting in neighboring northern Shan state. The blast left five Chinese people injured, prompting a strong rebuke from Beijing.

On Wednesday, fighting on the border between junta troops and the Kachin Independence Army, or KIA, led to two artillery explosions in Chinese territory, a resident told RFA.

The KIA conducted attacks on military junta outposts in Kachin state on Tuesday night. Junta troops fired back early Wednesday but the shells landed on the Chinese side of the border, the resident said.

Chinese authorities responded by closing the nearby Mai Ja Yang border gate. RFA sent an email to the Chinese Embassy in Yangon to ask about the explosions, but they didnt immediately respond.

Loss of trust

For its part, the IGC report said China should move beyond establishing fragile truces on its border with Myanmar in favor of a broader approach by pushing to end organized criminal activity along the border  not merely those that have the greatest impact on Chinese citizens.

While such an approach would require a bigger investment on Beijings part, it also promises a greater return  a more durable peace  for China, Myanmar and the wider region, the report said.

Junta spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun didnt respond to RFAs efforts to obtain comment, but a former army officer said the military has been unhappy with how Beijing has conducted its relations with the junta.

We have also lost trust with them, he told RFA. We lost our confidence in China due to its self-interest.

The Chinese governments interest in resolving the crisis is driven by its investment projects in Myanmar, said Kyaw Zaw, the spokesman of the shadow National Unity Government, or NUG.

I will say that China is dealing with all the relevant stakeholders of Myanmar issues in various ways, he said. They mainly focus on border security, protection of the interests of China and the Chinese people, and implementation of investment-related businesses that were signed with the previous government.

Translated by Aung Naing. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster.
Rebels warn local officials not to force youths into the military. If they dont follow our instructions, we will take action against them, one group said.

Junta soldiers march during a parade to mark the 78th Armed Forces Day in Naypyidaw, March 27, 2023.

At least 17 local officials carrying out the juntas conscription efforts have been killed since a draft law was enacted early last month, according to rebel officials and residents.

The number of killings has more than tripled in the last week, ahead of the official start of conscription, which the junta has said will take place in April. On March 23, RFA reported a total of six such killings.

The junta enacted the Peoples Military Service Law on Feb. 10 to replenish its military ranks after months of mounting losses and surrenders to insurgents in Myanmars three-year civil war.

In the weeks since the announcement, youths in many cities have fled abroad or to rebel-controlled territories to avoid the draft, refusing to fight for the military that seized control of the country in a February 2021 coup detat.

RFA has received reports of forced recruitment and officials compiling lists of residents of fighting age, as well as draft lotteries to select who will serve.

But rebel forces are fighting back against those doing the juntas bidding, according to sources who spoke to RFA Burmese on condition of anonymity due to security concerns.

As of Tuesday, at least 17 village- and township-level general administration officials and other related personnel, including clerks and heads of 100 households, have been assassinated in Bago, Magway, Sagaing and Mandalay regions, as well as Rakhine, Mon and Kachin states, sources told RFA Burmese.

When asked about the killings, an administrative officer in Yangon regions South Dagon township said there had been no resistance to recruitment in his ward, which had been implemented through a lottery last week.

He suggested that only corrupt officials had been targeted after accepting bribes to keep some draft-eligible youth out of the selection process, while those who worked transparently have remained unharmed.

List of victims grows

The earliest instance of an official being killed for their role in military recruitment took place on Feb. 20, when an administrator for Shin Thabyay Pin village in Magways Taungdwingyi township named Nan Win was found dead.

Members of the local anti-junta Peoples Defense Force, or PDF, claimed responsibiliity, saying he was killed after pressuring residents to join military training.

On March 18, members of the Salin Township PDF shot and killed Myint Htoo, the administrator of Pu Khat Taing village in Magways Salin township, as he called on residents to enlist for military service with a loudspeaker, according to sources in the township.

The following day, unidentified attackers killed Maung Pu, the administrator of Mandalay regions Wundwin township, while he worked to recruit soldiers for the junta, township residents said. Details of the attack were not immediately available.

On March 20, Tin Win Khaing, the administrative officer of Oke Shit Kone village in Magways Yenangyaung township, and his clerk San Naing, were also killed.

On March 22 and 24, Mya Mye Nyein, a junior clerk at the General Administration Office in Sagaings Shwebo township, and Nan Nwe Oo, the administrator of Shwebos Ward No. 4, were shot dead.

Both had distributed leaflets calling on people to join the military and were deeply involved in the recruitment process, said a resident of Shwebo, who identified himself as Oat Aaw and claimed that a guerrilla group known as Shwebo Ar Mann had carried out the assassinations.

Rebels issue warnings

San Lwin, the administrator of Taung Ka Lay village in Mons Kyaikhto township, was also shot dead on his way to work on March 24. He had handed over a list of local draft-eligible residents to township officials, a leader of the anti-junta Kyaikhto Revolution Force told RFA.

We have issued a notice to local administrative officials instructing them not to cause harm to the people, and not to force youths into the military, in accordance with the junta's order, the rebel leader said. If they dont follow our instructions, we will take action against them."

The PDF issued a similar warning in the third week of March, stating that ward members from various regions and states would be punished appropriately if they forcibly pressured people to serve in the military.

National and staff IDs of Mya Mya Nyein, the junior clerk of Shwebo Township General Administration Office. (Shwebo Ar Mann Guerrilla Group)

Political commentator Than Soe Naing said he expects the killings will continue unless the junta halts its implementation of the military service law.

"The publics anger was clearly sparked by the juntas decision to enact the law, he said.

The public backlash has also prompted some administrators to resign, saying they wont be able to comply with the juntas order.

Last week, 21 administrators in Rakhines Thandwe township collectively resigned, accounting for more than one-third of the heads of Thandwes 62 village-tracts. Similar resignations have taken place in Yangon regions Thanlyin and Sanchaung townships, and Bago regions Nat Than Kwin village.

Blazes in Ayeyarwady

Buildings being used in the juntas recruitment drive have also burned under mysterious circumstances in Ayeyarwady regions Hinthada and Yegyi townships in recent days, according to residents.

On Sunday, the rear of an administrative office in Hinthadas Ka Naung Su ward caught fire at approximately 8 pm, while a draft lottery was underway, a resident of the ward told RFA.

While some residents attributed the fire to faulty electrical wiring, others suggested it had been set by someone opposing the recruitment drive.

On March 19, the residence of Administrator Kyaw Moe in Hinthadas Oke Hpo Chaung village, was set on fire while he was recruiting for the military in the front yard, according to a resident of the village.

Damage was minimal, as those present acted quickly to put out the blaze, he added.

The same day, the house of a Yegyi ward administrator was also destroyed by fire, although details remained unclear.

Residents characterized the fires as arson and said the incidents were motivated by anger over the implementation of the conscription law.

Attempts by RFA to contact Khin Maung Kyi, the juntas social affairs minister and spokesperson for Ayeyarwady region, went unanswered Wednesday.

Mandalay recruitment drive

Meanwhile, residents say there has been a push for recruitment in central Myanmars Mandalay region, with administrative authorities actively compiling military service rosters and threatening punishment for those who resist.

Recruitment activities were most prevalent in Mandalays Chan Mya Thazi and Maha Aung Mye townships, they said, and census-taking is underway throughout the region.

Residents also reported that authorities manning checkpoints along roads connecting Mandalay to Sagaing region have intensified their scrutiny of passing vehicles, looking for anyone trying to escape the draft.

A resident of Mandalay said the junta is issuing threats of arrest and punishment for entire families of youths evading service.

"There are ominous warnings of apprehending family members of those aged between 18 and 35 on [recruitment] lists, should they refuse military service," she said.

A resident of Patheingyi township said local administrators have openly told people to pay them money in order to avoid service.

"It is said that if we don't want to go, we can give them money to arrange for a replacement, she said.

Thein Htay, the juntas minister of economy and spokesperson for Mandalay region, did not respond to requests for comment on Wednesday.

The military has said that it will enlist draft-eligible citizens in batches of 5,000 monthly, beginning in April.

According to data released last week by independent research group Data for Myanmar, the junta had commenced implementation of the military service law in 172 townships nationwide as of March 22.

Translated by Aung Naing and Kalyar Lwin. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster.
Heavy and increased use of the aircraft has made them more likely to fail mechanically, said a former junta air force officer.

A junta-owned military helicopter crashed in northern Myanmar, according to a statement by officials on Wednesday.

The accident was caused by mechanical failure during a training exercise in Mandalay regions Meiktila city on Tuesday, the press release stated, adding that the pilot and trainee onboard were not injured during the crash. Meiktila is home to the juntas Air Force Central Command.

Former junta air force sergeant Zeya told Radio Free Asia crashes have become more frequent because military aircraft are constantly in use by junta officials.

We have seen more aircraft crashes and the use of helicopters has increased, said the man, who goes by one name. Many of the aircraft that have come to us have weaknesses. Overuse of the aircraft will continue to happen.

Its important to check the condition of aircraft after each use, he added, but the junta can no longer do that because of the frequency they are being used in carrying out attacks all over the nation. According to a September report by the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights, airstrike attacks increased in Myanmar by 324% between 2021 and 2023.

On Feb. 29, a fighter jet crashed near Magway regions Kyu Wun village in central Myanmar. Just weeks earlier, a military plane repatriating troops who fled to India skidded off the runway at Mizoram states Lengpui Airport.

These crashes were preceded by more infrequent crashes in earlier years of the coup. In November 2022, a training pilot plane crashed in Tanintharyi regions Thayetchaung township.

In June 2021, a junta passenger plane crash killed 12 people at Pyinoolwins nearby Anisakhan Airport in Mandalay region. The dead included a monk, two army majors, a captain and a corporal.

According to data compiled by RFA, rebel armies in Kachin, Kayin and Karenni states, as well as guerilla armies, or Peoples Defense Forces, claim to have shot down seven transport helicopters and fighter jets in the three years since the 2021 coup. Five additional junta aircraft have crashed due to technical or human error.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan and Mike Firn.
The collapse of Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, after its support column was struck by a container ship, sent shockwaves through the United States as rescue efforts continued into evening to find six construction workers who fell into the Patapsco River around 1:30 a.m.

It also prompted a question: Could something like it happen in Western New York, which has several major bridges and its own history as a commercial port?

Several experts said a similar incident is virtually impossible here.

I dont think people need to have any concerns about a collision putting them in danger in our part of the world, said Darrell Kaminski, an assistant professor in the University at Buffalos Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, who previously worked in the state Department of Transportation for more than three decades.

Stunning video shows aftermath of bridge collapse Rescuers are searching for survivors after a ship hit the Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore and caused it to collapse. CNN's Gabe Cohen re

Kaminski emphasized that the Peace Bridges five concrete piers, part of the bridge substructure, have several purposes: structural soundness for the 5,800-foot-long bridge and a deterrent to damage from collisions and natural disasters, but also to withstand the Niagara Rivers strong current and ice chunks.

The piers are really robust, Kaminski said.

Brian R. Wroblewski spent more than a decade reporting for the Buffalo Harbor Museum on shipping and now runs the 6,800-member Buffalo Area Transportation, Industry, Architecture and Defense Facebook group. He attributed the unlikelihood of such a collision to the nature of commercial ship traffic in the region.

Tankers avoid the Niagara River because of its current, he said. Instead, vessels travel through the Black Rock Canal, bounded to the west by Bird Island, Unity Island and Broderick Park and to the east by the Buffalo shoreline.

That canal is cut through bedrock and is very shallow outside the navigation channel, Wroblewski said.

As the Niagara River flows north, it meets the Tonawanda channel, the portion of the Niagara River that runs east of Grand Island and passes under both Grand Island bridges. Here, Wroblewski said, high shoals  or raised sandbars  would cause most large ships leaving the navigation channel to run aground before they could hit the bridge.

In other words, ships typically would run aground instead of striking structures including bridges if they deviated from the navigation channel, he said.

Wroblewski mentioned the oil tanker Kiisla as an example. Navigating during wintry conditions in 1989, the Finnish tanker was headed to Tonawanda, but veered from its course due to a major breach in its hull. The vessel ended up stuck in the breakwall near the former LaSalle Park, the historian said.

It was a captivating experience for Wroblewski, then 16 years old, who took a photo of the ship the next day.

This ship launched my photographic ambitions and my interest has never waned, he said.

BARGE 45 Here are the highlights of the Barge 45 saga: Aug. 7, 1986: Virginia tugboat captain Ronald Blaha, trying to pilot Barge 45 down the Niagara River, crashes the barge into the Peace Bridge. Blahas tugboat, the Ruth B., capsizes and sinks, and Blaha abandons the 174-foot-long barge at the bridge. Aug. 12, 1986: The Coast Guard and the U.S.

The only time in recent history a ship has struck the Peace Bridge was Barge 45 in 1986. The barge became separated from its Virginia tugboat and was propelled by the Niagara Rivers current into one of the Peace Bridges piers. The collision required more than $5 million in repairs and precipitated an extensive removal effort that took about a year amid significant controversy.

The Black Rock Canal corridor is used commercially about 20 times a year for asphalt tankers, Wroblewski said. Commercial traffic is not permitted too far beyond Tonawanda as the river leads toward Niagara Falls.

The fast-flowing current prohibits ships from traveling safely under the Queenston-Lewiston and Rainbow bridges. The bulk of the areas commercial shipping occurs south of Bird Island, Wroblewski said, including ports in Buffalo and Lackawanna where large bridges dont come into play.
The deployment of the medium-endurance cutter to the Pacific will help police the regions vast fisheries.

A U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane boarding team and Vanuatu fisheries and maritime police officials start an inspection on a fishing vessel in Vanuatus exclusive economic zone in the South Pacific Ocean on Feb. 26, 2024.

U.S. diplomacy in the South Pacific is getting a boost from the regional deployment of the Coast Guard cutter Harriet Lane, which has started a years-long involvement in fisheries and anti-narcotics enforcement in conjunction with Pacific island countries.

The home port of Harriet Lane, one of a class of 13 U.S. Coast Guard vessels that can carry out so-called medium range operations lasting up to three months, changed to Pearl Harbor from Portsmouth, Virginia in December as part of recent U.S. government commitments to deepen relations with Pacific island countries.

The 270 foot cutters ongoing inaugural patrol in the South Pacific that began in January has so far taken it to American Samoa, Samoa, Fiji, Vanuatu, Australia, Papua New Guinea and Nauru.

Commander Nicole Tesoniero said to date the patrol has carried out 28 vessel boardings under shiprider agreements with Pacific island countries  already equal to more than a third of the boardings carried out in a year by the six fast-response Coast Guard cutters based in Hawaii and Guam.

What were looking at with Harriet Lane, is starting to get to some of those regions that have been more difficult for the Coast Guard to reach, she told BenarNews in an interview. And this first patrol has been a great example of that.

Harriet Lanes deployment to the Pacific was one of the commitments from last years summit between U.S. President Joe Biden and the leaders of Pacific island countries. The U.S. has sought greater involvement in the Pacific in response to archrival Chinas inroads with island nations, such as its secretive security cooperation agreement with the Solomon Islands, signed in 2022.

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane and a fishing vessel are seen in Vanuatus exclusive economic zone in the South Pacific Ocean on Feb. 26, 2024. (Charly Tautfes/U.S. Coast Guard)





Many Pacific island countries rely on help from Australia, New Zealand and the U.S. to police their vast exclusive economic zones, which extend 200 nautical miles from land, to deter illegal fishing and ensure licensed fishing fleets are following the rules.

The island countries are also part of a drug-trafficking highway for international crime gangs that supply narcotics from Asia and South America to markets in New Zealand and Australia.

Bianca Simeon, an inspector in the maritime wing of Vanuatus police force, said Harriet Lanes visit to Vanuatu last month was significant and beneficial.

The last time the country had patrolled its fisheries was in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters and problems with its single patrol boat. The RVS Takuare, donated by Australia in mid-2021, is now in Australia for repairs to a reported engine defect.

Vanuatu officials who went on patrol with Harriet Lane found violations in half of the dozen foreign fishing vessels they boarded, including fish catches in their coolers that were not recorded in their logs, lack of proper records for crew transfers between ships and captains fishing under licenses not issued to them.

Based on our experience during the patrol with Harriet Lane, I believe there has been significant illegal fishing activity in our waters, Simeon told BenarNews.

The patrol with Harriet was only for six days and this is a short time but we managed to find six vessels who were breaking our law, she said. I can definitely say there are fishing boats out there who are doing the same but get away with it."

Vanuatu expects at least one more patrol with Harriet Lane this year and would likely conduct a joint patrol if the RVS Takuare becomes available, Simeon said.

Shipriders from Samoas police force and its Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries prepare to board a U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane small boat in Samoan waters on Feb. 5, 2024. (Charly Tautfest//U.S. Coast Guard)





The U.S. has shiprider agreements with 12 Pacific island countries that mean law enforcement officers from those nations can board U.S. vessels and deputize them to assist in enforcing regulations in their waters.

The agreements are not explicitly aimed at China. However, U.S. diplomats and defense officials have described them as a form of military diplomacy known as theater security cooperation that can foster political relations in the region, enhance security and counter detrimental outside influences.

Many of the fishing vessels boarded in the Pacific with Harriet Lanes assistance are flagged to China, which reflects it has the worlds largest commercial fishing fleet numbering more than than half a million vessels.

Tesoniero said enhanced shiprider agreements that allow U.S. vessels to police another countrys exclusive economic zone without an official from the country on board could increase the effectiveness of Harriet Lanes South Pacific patrols.

The U.S. Coast Guard signed an enhanced shiprider agreement with Palau last year and with the Federated States of Micronesia the previous year. Both those countries in the western Pacific give the U.S. military access to their vast ocean territories in exchange for economic assistance and the right for their citizens to live and work in the U.S.

I do think there is considerable benefit to the enhanced shiprider agreements and its really just because of the ability to start that monitoring and enforcement action immediately upon entering the EEZ , Tesoniero said. I think it increases the scope of what you can accomplish.

Harriet Lanes Pearl Harbor berth lasts until 2027 under an agreement with the U.S. Navy. Tesoniero said its Pacific patrols also afford an opportunity to understand what its future home port options could be.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization.
But Tibetans fear that the Chinese offer will deprive Tibetan youth of opportunities

Graduates of the College of Science of Tibet University gather to pose for a group photo at the base of the Potala Palace in Lhasa in western China's Tibet Autonomous Region, June 1, 2021.

UPDATED at 7:22 P.M. ET on 03-27-2024

To lure more investment to Tibet, Chinese authorities have announced a sweetener to would-be investors: Move your family to the region, spend three years there and invest 3 million yuan (US$415,000)  and your teenage children will have a better chance of gaining entry to a good university.

Every June, millions of Chinese high school students take the grueling gaokao college entrance exams, but the admissions scores to the countrys 1,200 universities vary among the provinces according to the number of their inhabitants.

Residents of Beijing and Shanghai face the stiffest competition. But Tibet offers its students one of the lowest college entry barriers via preferential conditions meant to give ethnic Tibetans an advantage.

For example, a student in Tibet who scored at least 300 points out of 750 on the exam would have qualified to get into most universities, but those taking the exam in Beijing would have needed a score of 448 to enter the same schools, said Frank Lehberger, a senior research fellow at the Usanas Foundation, an Indian think tank.

Chinese parents have picked up on this discrepancy and some have become gaokao migrants, moving part or all the family to more advantageous locations just so their children would have an easier time getting into university.

This rationale entices many Chinese families to migrate to places with low population and high preferential affirmative action programs, Lehberger said.

The Ministry of Education has ordered local governments to crack down on gaming the system in this way, but this offer from Tibet contradicts that and appears to have the authorities blessing.

Desperate for investment

The decision, announced March 18 by the Tibet Autonomous Region Education Department, comes amid a slumping economy, with a rising jobless rate for young people, and cash-strapped provincial governments are keen to attract investment after three years of draconian pandemic restrictions.

According to the specialist taxation website shui5.com, the terms are only being offered to the children of owners or shareholders of a company entering the Tibet Autonomous Region under the local government's investment promotion program.

Parents wait for students outside a test site for Chinas national college entrance exam, in Lhasa, in western China's Tibet Autonomous Region, June 7, 2023. (Jiang Fan/Xinhua via Getty Images)





The offer will be extended to those who have made an initial investment of at least 3 million yuan, and they can't withdraw capital or shares from the business for at least five years, according to the announcement.

The students must also have been enrolled in a school in Tibet for at least three years  so this is a significant time commitment.

The aim of the offer is to "further optimize the business environment in our region ... and the high-quality development of the plateau economy," said the announcement on shui5.com.

Stirring controversy

The move has sparked debate on Chinese social media, with some posters arguing it would be unfair to students from the mountainous region and others supporting it.

The weightings are calculated based on past regional performance, which means that if students from better-resourced regions of China start going to Tibet, they could push up the score threshold for everyone, including Tibetans.

Tibetans and rights groups warn that the program will deprive Tibetan students of educational and job opportunities and worsen unemployment among them.

This recent development will further rob Tibetan students of opportunities, a source in Tibets capital of Lhasa told Radio Free Asia.

The Chinese government has adopted educational policies to help Tibetans, but they have benefited Chinese officials and investors who move there, he said.

Because the Chinese government perceives Tibetans as less developed and economically disadvantaged, it provides special conditions for Tibetan students to pursue higher education, said Bhuchung Tsering, head of the research and monitoring unit at the International Campaign for Tibet in Washington.

However, with the current situation where anyone with the financial means can secure a spot, I believe this policy is being exploited and misused, Tsering said.

Strict requirements

But Xiong Bingqi, director of the 21st Century Education Research Institute, was quoted in the China Daily as saying that while people may worry that the policy will favor rich people and lead to education inequality, the strict requirements of the policy mean only those who are really committed to long-term investment in the region can enjoy it.

The key is to crack down on any people or organization faking documents and close any loopholes, he said.

An official at the Chinese Embassy in Washington said they were not familiar with the program in question. But the spokesperson said that Tibet's economy is "booming, the society is harmonious and stable, its cultural traditions have been protected and promoted, and a modern education system adapted to local needs have been built."

The official went on to say that all ethnic groups in Tibet have the right to "equally enjoy high-quality education," which has helped improve the cultural standards of the people and enhanced ethnic and national unity.

Despite what the official said, the move does seem to suggest that regional Chinese governments face financial woes, experts said.

This investment scheme smacks of desperation, betraying the deep financial troubles that the TAR government and bureaucracy finds itself in, said Lehberger, who has worked for many years in Tibet.

He said he strongly doubts the measure will attract many affluent Han Chinese because 90% of that group wants to leave China altogether.

The move also highlights the lack of tangible development in the region, said Sriparna Pathak, associate professor of China studies at the O.P. Jindal Global University in Haryana, India, and a former consultant at Indias foreign ministry.

Despite the severe lack of development in Tibet and the wiping out of the Tibetan language, identity and culture by the Chinese Communist Party state, the attempt still is to show Tibet as a shining example of development as is seen in all Chinese propaganda on Tibet, she said.

However, the latest move to lure investors clearly shows how badly so-called development efforts of the Chinese Communist Party state have failed, she said.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster.

Updates with comment from Chinese Embassy spokesperson.
The 18 families dont have legal residence and face restrictions in jobs and education  and now fear being sent to China.

About 100 Uyghur refugees in Pakistan face deportation in April, after the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan is over, based on a new government directive, a copy of which was obtained by Radio Free Asia.

The 18 refugee families, who have been living in Pakistan for several years, fear they will be deported to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan or China, where they may face persecution.

The Uyghurs are a tiny part of a much larger group of 1.7 million Afghan refugees in the country that the Pakistani government announced last October it would deport following a series of suicide bombings blamed on Afghan groups.

The Pakistani government decided in November 2023 to extend the stay of the Uyghurs for six months after the U.N. refugee agency intervened on their behalf.

In February, the Interior Ministry held a meeting to review the repatriation plan, which outlines three phases, starting with undocumented Afghan nationals, followed by Afghan Citizen Card holders and proof of registration holders.

The Uyghur families are registered as Afghan refugees and hold Afghan Citizen Cards, but otherwise have no passports or legal identity.

The new Pakistani directive calls for gathering information on Afghan migrants before a renewed effort to deport them after Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan on April 9.

Since they perceive us as Afghans, they intend to include us in this expulsion, said Turghunjan Muhemmet Tursun, a 32-year-old Uyghur born in Afghanistan whose parents sought refuge in Pakistan after the Soviet-Afghan War erupted in 1979.

This has left us deeply distressed.

Legal limbo

Most of the Uyghurs are descendants of individuals who migrated decades ago from Xinjiang to Afghanistan, and later fled to Pakistan because of war and other problems they encountered in Afghanistan.

Despite their long-term residence in Pakistan, the government has not granted the Uyghurs citizenship, passports or residency status. Because of this, they face restrictions in access to jobs, education for their children, and free movement inside the country.

An official from the U.N. refugee agencys office, or UNHCR, which is monitoring the situation, expressed hope that the new directive would not adversely affect the Uyghur families.

We are aware of this, but the government has not formally moved on it, the official said in a text message, asking not to be identified.

The UNHRC official stressed a low likelihood of deportation of the Uyghurs, but neither his office nor Pakistani authorities could offer clear and reliable information regarding their fate.

RFA could not reach the Office of Afghan Refugees at Pakistans Interior Ministry for comment.

Omer Khan, founder of the Pakistan-based Omer Uyghur Trust, which has been assisting the families, told RFA that Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued orders to the countrys border management and law enforcement authorities on March 23 to conduct an urgent operation to deport those holding a Afghan Citizen Cards at the end of Ramadan.

This has caused worry among the Uyghur community, Khan said. Previously, the UNHCR in Pakistan told us not to worry, but now theyre not picking up the phone when we try to contact them.

Translated by RFA Uyghur. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster.
2 followers were also detained, and authorities are targeting the pagoda in southern Vietnam, a monk said.

Thach Chanh Da Ra, left, the abbot of the Dai Tho Pagoda, and Kim Khiem, have been charged with abusing the rights to democratic freedom by Vietnam authorities.

Updated on March 28, 2024 at 12:45 p.m.

Vietnamese police on Tuesday arrested a Buddhist abbot and two followers  all members of the Khmer Krom indigenous group  for their alleged roles in two separate incidents involving a pagoda in the countrys south.

The nearly 1.3-million strong Khmer Krom indigenous community live in a part of Vietnam that was once southeastern Cambodia. They face discrimination in Vietnam and suspicion in Cambodia, where they are often perceived not as Cambodians but as Vietnamese.

The arrested abbot, Thach Chanh Da Ra, born in 1990, is head of the Dai Tho Pagoda, known as the Tro Nom Sek pagoda in Khmer, in Tam Binh district in Vinh Long province.

He and Kim Khiem, born in 1978, had posted allegedly slandering and insulting videos on social media and were charged with abusing the rights to democratic freedom, in violation of Article 331, a law that rights groups have said is vaguely written and often used to stifle dissent.

Ra was dismissed from the government-recognized Vietnam Buddhist Sangha in December.

Police also arrested Thach Ve Sanal, another member of the pagoda, on charges of illegally arresting, holding, or detaining people, for his alleged role in an incident that occurred when a task force entered the pagoda to investigate on Nov. 22, 2023.

The arrests took place just a week after authorities sentenced two other Khmer Krom to prison for abusing democratic freedoms, and about a month after a third was given three-and-a-half years on the same charge.

False accusations

The governments accusations about the three men arrested Tuesday are fabricated, Duong Khai, a monk at the pagoda, told RFA Vietnamese.

They distorted and slandered us, not the other way around, he said. They constantly come to harass us and disrupt security and public order. They disturbed our indigenous Khmer Krom community and gave us no days of peace.

Khai said that the Vietnamese authorities arrest whoever they dislike, especially if they dare to speak up and tell the truth about the governments wrongdoings.

They arrested Kim Khiem because he had spoken out about their repression (of Khmer Krom,) he said. As for the abbot, Thach Chanh Da Ra, the authorities have repeatedly harassed (him) since the tree-cutting incident.

Vietnamese authorities have arrested Thach Ve Sanal on charges of illegally arresting, holding or detaining people under Article 157 of the Penal Code. (congan.vinhlong.gov.vn)

More than a year ago, the Buddhist followers elected Ra to replace the former abbot of the pagoda, Thach Xuoi, because they believed Xuoi had colluded with authorities to cut down a 700-year-old tree in the pagoda that had become a community symbol.

Ra and Khiem were arrested when they were returning to the pagoda after conducting services elsewhere, the monk said.

International condemnation

The Vietnamese government is unfairly targeting Ra as a means to force the pagoda to join the officially recognized Sangha, the U.S.-based Kampuchea Krom Khmers Federation said in a press release Tuesday.

The organization called on authorities to drop all charges and release all three of the arrested people, and said the United Nations and the international community should condemn Vietnam  a member of the U.N. Human Rights Council  for its suppression of religious freedom.

RFA attempted to contact the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Embassy of Vietnam in Cambodia for comment but received no response.

The charges against Ra are bogus according to Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director at New York-based Human Rights Watch.

The Vietnamese government is deliberately harassing, discriminating against, and abusing the Khmer Krom leaders who stand up for their language, culture, and Theravadan Buddhism, and this crackdown is extending to senior Buddhist monks asserting their right to freedom of religion and belief, Robertson said.

He said that Ras arrest showed that government officials have no respect for the religious beliefs of the Khmer Krom.

Robertson said that the U.S. Department of State should recognize the severity of Vietnams repression and designate it a country of particular concern for its violations of religious freedom.

Translated by Anna Vu and Samean Yun. Edited by Eugene Whong.

Update adds the Khmer name of the pagoda and classifies the Khmer Krom as an indigenous community.
A year after the arrest of Evan Gershkovich in Russia, the Wall Street Journal reporters family pledged to continue to fight for release from a Moscow prison where he is being held on espionage charges the White House and his employer say are fabricated.

Gershkovich became the first U.S. journalist arrested on spying charges in Russia since the Cold War when he was detained on March 29, 2023, by the Federal Security Service (FSB), which said he had been trying to obtain military secrets.

The Wall Street Journal and the U.S. government have vehemently rejected the espionage charges, saying he was merely doing his job as an accredited reporter when he was arrested.

Gershkovich saw his detention extended to June 30 earlier this week by the Moscow City Court. The Kremlin said on March 29 it had no information on when the 32-year-olds trial will begin. If found guilty, he faces up to 20 years in jail.

"We never anticipated this situation happening to our son and brother, let alone a full year with no certainty or clear path forward," his family said in a letter published by the Wall Street Journal on March 29 to mark the anniversary.

"But despite this long battle, we are still standing strong."

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement on March 29 that "to date, Russia has provided no evidence of wrongdoing for a simple reason: Evan did nothing wrong. Journalism is not a crime."

Born in the United States to Soviet emigres, Gershkovich reported from Russia for six years before being detained in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg.

Leon Panetta, former director of the CIA, said the United States must play a "tough game" with Russian President Vladimir Putin in order to get Gershkovich released.

"We have got to play a tough game with Putin to make sure hes not going to get away with this kind of game." Panetta said on Fox News.

Gershkovich will ultimately be released through a prisoner swap, Panetta predicted, saying the United States could "develop some leverage" for such a deal by arresting Russian spies in the United States "so that [Putin] has a reason to come to the bargaining table."

State Department spokesman Vedant Patel, also speaking on Fox News, said the United States engages daily with the "highest levels of the Russian government" in its effort to win Gershkovich's release, but he said it was "important not to talk about the deliberations in public."

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has also stressed the importance of silence about any negotiations, but Wall Street Journal Associate Editor Paul Beckett, who is leading the newspapers efforts to free Gershkovich, said talks involving Gershkovich on any level keep his supporters optimistic that something can be done.

Russian authorities accuse Gershkovich of collecting state secrets about the military industrial complex at the behest of the U.S. government.

Wall Street Journal Associate Editor Paul Beckett, who is leading the newspapers efforts to free Gershkovich, told Current Time in an interview broadcast on March 29 that the reporter is holding up OK under very difficult circumstances.

He's in his cell for 23 hours a day. He has an hour outside in the courtyard, which is about the same size as his cell. So we've just been very grateful that he's been able to maintain his equilibrium, Beckett said of Gershkovichs incarceration in Moscows Lefortovo prison.

Beckett said that besides one hour of courtyard time per day, Gershkovich has been in constant correspondence with his family, including swapping lines from shows that they enjoyed together, and weekly meetings with his lawyers.

Earlier on March 28 in Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was asked about reports of a possible prisoner exchange involving Gershkovich, and he stressed the importance of silence about any negotiations.

But Beckett said talks involving Gershkovich on any level keep his supporters "optimistic that something can be done."

Gershkovich is one of two American reporters currently being held by Russian authorities. The other is Alsu Kurmasheva, an RFE/RL journalist who holds dual Russian-American citizenship.

Kurmasheva, 47, was arrested in Kazan last October and charged with failing to register as a foreign agent under a punitive Russian law that targets journalists, civil society activists, and others. Shes also been charged with spreading falsehoods about the Russian military and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

RFE/RL and the U.S. government say the charges are reprisals for her work as a journalist for RFE/RL in Prague. She had traveled to Russia to visit and care for her elderly mother and was initially detained while waiting for her return flight on June 2 at Kazan airport, where her U.S. and Russian passports were confiscated.

Gershkovich has been designated as wrongfully detained by the U.S. government. Kurmasheva, however, has not despite pleas from RFE/RL and Kurmashevas family.

The Wall Street Journal on March 28 published a story about her detention and the difficulties her husband, Pavel Butorin, who also works for RFE/RL in Prague, and their two daughters, aged 12 and 15, have had without her and their efforts to have her designated as wrongfully detained.

The designation would mean her case would be assigned to the office of the Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs in the State Department, raising the political profile of her situation and allowing the Biden administration to allocate more resources to securing her release. The designation currently applies only to Gershkovich and another American held in Russia, Paul Whelan, a former U.S. Marine and corporate security executive who is serving a 16-year prison sentence on espionage charges.

Other events being held to mark the one-year anniversary of Gershkovichs detention include a 24-hour read-a-thon of his work by his Wall Street Journal colleagues at the newspapers headquarters in New York and swimming events at Brighton Beaches in New Zealand, South African, Canada, the United States and Britain.

The beaches were chosen in recognition of his familys connection to Brighton Beach in Brooklyn, New York, which is home to a large Russian immigrant community. Gershkovich's parents emigrated from the Soviet Union, separately, in 1979.
Luke de Pulford, a British activist focused on China, didnt know he and a global group of lawmakers that he founded were being targeted by Chinese hackers until the U.S. Justice Department issued a press release about the yearslong campaign.

The sweeping indictment unsealed in Washington on March 25 says Chinese government-backed hackers in 2021 went after every European Union member of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), a group of deputies with hawkish views on China that de Pulford co-founded in 2020. The Chinese hackers also tried to infiltrate 43 British parliamentary accounts linked to lawmakers that were also IPAC members or had expressed critical views of China.

I am learning about this from a U.S. government press release, du Pulford wrote on X, formerly Twitter, shortly after U.S. sanctions against seven men and two hacking groups accused of conducting the attacks on behalf of Chinas civilian intelligence agency, the State Security Ministry (MSS), were announced.

RFE/RL spoke with several IPAC-affiliated lawmakers targeted in the hacking campaign. Many said they received suspicious e-mails like the ones the U.S. indictment says were used to try to gain access to their accounts -- with some even being notified about it by their respective intelligence and cybersecurity agencies. All of the lawmakers say the attempts were unsuccessful.

This [U.S.] investigation is not a surprise to me, but only a simple confirmation that everything Ive done over the years in parliament has been done well, Pavel Popescu, a Romanian IPAC member who led the countrys parliamentary National Security and Defense Committee in 2022, told RFE/RL.

The U.S. allegations and sanctions were followed by Britain and supported by New Zealand, who also accused China of hacking its parliament website.

Some 66 lawmakers from 12 EU-member parliaments are listed on IPACs website, along with members from Britain, the United States, Ukraine, Japan, and others. Beyond the IPAC members, the sprawling Chinese hacking cybercampaign targeted U.S. officials, senators, journalists, Chinese political dissidents, Western military and tech companies, as well Britains election watchdog and members of the European Parliament.

Antonio Milososki, a lawmaker and former foreign minister for North Macedonia, told RFE/RL that cyberattacks have been a mainstay since he joined IPAC in 2021. He says he thinks the attempts have been unsuccessful and that IPAC has been active in raising awareness about the constant hacking attempts.

Still, some IPAC members are frustrated about the lack of notification from Western security agencies about the scale of the Chinese campaign and that they were being targeted.

The British government has been criticized for being too slow to respond to the 14-year-long campaign, with several parliament members saying they were never notified they were targeted.

Tim Loughton, a British parliamentarian and IPAC member, said he and other U.K. politicians expressed dismay that British intelligence never told them they were targeted and only learned about the issue from the indictment.

They werent fully honest with us. We only found out from America that 43 people were hacked, Loughton told reporters at a March 25 press conference, referring to the British lawmakers targeted.

IPACs du Pulford also expressed frustration with the lack of notice, saying that while they have been aware of cyberattacks over the years, IPAC only learned about the full scale of the campaign from the U.S. press release.

Inside A Global Hacking Campaign

Both London and Washington have pointed the finger at a hacking group known within the cybersecurity community as Advanced Persistent Threat 31 (APT 31), which is said to have tried to hack IPAC members and gone after a host of other targets in the indictment, ranging from overseas Hong Kong activists to U.S. companies.

New Zealand, meanwhile, said a separate Chinese state-backed group called APT 40 was behind the attack that compromised computers linked to its parliamentary network. According to Mandiant, an American cybersecurity firm and subsidiary of Google, APT 40 is a Chinese cyberespionage group that typically targets countries strategically important to Beijings multibillion dollar infrastructure project, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

U.S. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said on March 25 that more than 10,000 e-mails -- which appeared to come from news outlets, politicians, and critics of China -- were sent as part of the campaign that relied on using phishing e-mails containing hidden tracking links.

If the victims opened the e-mails, information including the recipients location, device, and IP address were transmitted to a server controlled by the hackers. APT 31 then used this information to enable more targeted hacking, such as going after home routers and personal electronic devices.

Romanian lawmaker and IPAC member Catalin Tenita told RFE/RL that he had received suspicious e-mails in 2021 but that he exercises a high-degree of cybersecurity and did not click on any potential phishing e-mails.

Alexandru Muraru, another Romanian IPAC member, told RFE/RL that he didnt open any e-mails like those outlined in the indictment but says that he and his colleagues have been repeatedly warned about what the Chinese state is trying to do.

Other IPAC members, such as Fatmir Mediu, an Albanian lawmaker and former defense minister, told RFE/RL that he and other Albanian IPAC members did not receive any e-mails like those described in the U.S. indictment.

China has rejected the allegations that it or state-affiliated organizations were responsible for the attacks, calling them completely fabricated and malicious slanders.

Analysts, however, say that the campaign is part of a larger trend of Chinese hackers becoming increasingly invasive in their efforts to surveil and monitor critics abroad and procure intellectual property from leading foreign companies.

Jakub Janda, director of the Prague-based European Values for Security Policy, told RFE/RL that the U.K government's decision to publicly attribute the hacking campaign to China is a step toward a more robust European response to Chinese cyberespionage, although he said the sanctions are mostly symbolic punishment and unlikely to have a deterring effect.

Another large-scale, multiyear Chinese hacking campaign was exposed in February when a trove of documents from the Shanghai-based cybersecurity company I-Soon was leaked online. According to e-mails in the leak, the private company worked as a contractor for the Chinese government, police, and military to target individuals, governments, and companies across the globe.

Jamie MacColl, a research fellow in cybersecurity at the London-based Royal United Services Institute, says that while Chinese state-backed hacking groups have been on the rise in recent years, the recent disclosure stands out for its massive scale and varying goals.

But he adds that while Chinas hacking capabilities have greatly advanced in the last decade, this case shows that Chinese groups are vulnerable and that the indictment would not be possible without significant infiltration of the MSS by Western intelligence agencies.

China still worries about its networks being penetrated and [Western agencies] collecting intel on their most important groups, which is what looks to have happened here, MacColl told RFE/RL. This is embarrassing for them.

RFE/RL Balkan Service correspondents Doruntina Baliu and Zoran Kjuka contributed to this report.
Welcome back to the China In Eurasia briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter tracking China's resurgent influence from Eastern Europe to Central Asia.

Looking ahead, well be changing up the newsletter format and will start sending it out every week. Until then, it would be great to hear more about what you like about the newsletter currently and would want more of moving forward. Send me an email to StandishR@rferl.org with your thoughts. Dont be shy! :)

I'm RFE/RL correspondent Reid Standish and here's what I'm following right now.

Listen to the Talking China In Eurasia podcast.

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube

Xi, Putin, And A Battle Of Narratives Over The Moscow Concert Attack

Islamic State (IS) was quick to claim responsibility for the bloody Crocus City Hall attack in Moscow on March 22 that killed at least 143 people.

But despite that claim and graphic body cam footage from the attack later posted by the militant group, Russian officials and state media have said, without evidence, that Ukraine was involved in the attack. Those claims have also begun to find their way into some Chinese state media coverage.

Finding Perspective: When President Vladimir Putin first addressed Russia on March 23, the day after the attack, he made no mention of the group, whose Afghan-affiliate Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) is believed to have carried out the deadliest attack in Russia since the 2004 Beslan siege. In comments on March 25, he asserted again that the tragedy was likely ordered by Ukraine.

Theres been little reference to the IS attribution from Russian officials and state media, with the focus instead being on unsubstantiated claims about the assailants traveling to Ukraine before being caught. Ukrainian officials have staunchly denied any involvement in the attack.

In China, coverage has largely centered around Chinese nationals. Shortly after news broke of the incident, Chinese students studying in Russia -- of which there are more than 44,000, according to official Russian figures -- began to share their stories on online platforms and with various Chinese media. In the 24 hours after the attack, it generated more than 21 million views and 7 million comments on the prominent social media platform Weibo.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping also promptly offered his condolences to Putin, saying that China is against terrorism of any form and that Beijing firmly [supports] the efforts of the Russian government in safeguarding national security and stability.

Chinese state media, meanwhile, have given growing space for Russian officials to link the attack to Kyiv -- and even American involvement despite U.S. warnings several weeks beforehand that an attack was likely -- which Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova asserted in a statement on Telegram.

Until the investigation into the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall is completed, any phrase from Washington exonerating Kyiv should be considered as evidence, she wrote. After all, the financing of terrorist activities of the Kyiv organized criminal group by the American liberal democrats and participation in the corrupt schemes of the Biden family have been going on for many years.

Why It Matters: The Moscow attack has quickly been wrapped up in a global disinformation campaign.

Russias NTV television channel aired a deepfake video following the attack that showed Oleksiy Danilov, Ukraines top security official, appearing to taunt Russia and take credit for the attack. The video was later debunked as an AI-altered fake by BBC Verify.

This has been followed by online bots across social media in multiple languages amplifying claims of Ukrainian involvement and Western intelligence agencies being part of the attack.

The Big Picture: As Etienne Soula, a research analyst with the German Marshall Funds Alliance for Securing Democracy, told me, Chinese state media exists on a spectrum and so far more nationalist outlets like the Global Times seem to be supporting Russias allegations regarding Ukrainian involvement in the attacks, and even quoted Chinese experts casting doubt that IS could pull off such an attack.

Their framing of the attacks is very reminiscent of their early coverage of the war in Ukraine: quoting Russian current and former officials with no qualifiers, far more quotes of Russian officials than of Western voices (and almost no space for Ukrainian officials), Soula wrote in an e-mail.

So far, the official line toward the attacks appears to be supportive of Russia, but comparatively reserved.

Sari Arho Havren, an associate fellow at London's Royal United Services Institute, told me that China and Russia aligning in the information space is hardly new, but it appears to be growing as both governments global interests overlap.

Whether China believes Putin's version of the terrorist attack is irrelevant because China will use the version of the events that best serves its own interests and goals, she said.

Overall, China seems to boost the Russian narratives when they fit and advance China's own goals. As with this case, Beijing appears to particularly amplify the option of U.S. involvement behind it all  at least for as long as its feasible.

Three More Stories From Eurasia

1. Chinese Wind Energy Meets Bosnian Corruption

A monthslong investigation by my colleague Predrag Zvijerac from RFE/RLs Balkan Service shows how well-connected individuals in Bosnia-Herzegovina are facilitating the influx of Chinese investment into the country so they can benefit through murky land-ownership schemes and convoluted legal loopholes.

The Details: The investigation centers on the Ivovik wind farm project, Chinas largest and most expensive project in the Balkan country.

This flagship investment has been championed by Bosnian authorities as a job-creating endeavor that will give the country a foothold in Europes growing green-energy space and open the door for future investments in the local economy.

But the wind farms lofty ambitions are now caught up in a complex saga of land disputes, questionable concessions, and murky deals that highlight where Chinese state interests and shady local business practices collide.

At the heart of the controversy around the Ivovik wind-energy project is a dispute over land ownership, with the government of the canton -- the administrative units that make up roughly half of Bosnia -- granting land to Chinese companies under questionable and possibly illegal circumstances.

Predrag found how cantonal governments are awarding concessions to Chinese firms for land linked to the project that belongs to nearby residents, dispossessing them of their land and allowing officials to generate large profits in the process.

The wind-energy project is the most high-profile example of this in the country, but Predrags investigation also shows that this practice is becoming a growing trend across Bosnia when it comes to Chinese cash.

Read the full investigation here.

2. Workers Targeted In Pakistan

A suicide bomber drove an explosives-laden car into a bus carrying Chinese workers, killing at least five of them, along with their Pakistani driver, police said on March 26.

What You Need To Know: RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal reported that the attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province was the latest in a series targeting Chinese workers who are employed in major public infrastructure projects funded by the Chinese government.

The suicide bombing marks the third major attack on Chinese interests in Pakistan in a week. The first two attacks targeted a Pakistan naval air base and a strategic port used by China in the southwest province of Balochistan where Beijing is investing billions in infrastructure projects.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack as of this writing.

The five Chinese who died were engineers at a key Chinese-funded hydropower project in Dasu, which is under construction by the China Gezhouba Group Company. In July 2021, a bomb placed on a bus carrying Chinese workers to the dam in Dasu killed nine Chinese citizens and four Pakistanis, while injuring 21 others.

3. The New Tightrope

On the same day that Kazakh President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev met with a U.S. senator in Astana, he also welcomed Erkin Tuniyaz, the deputy secretary of the Chinese Communist Party in Xinjiang who is currently sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department.

What It Means: As RFE/RLs Kazakh Service reported, Toqaev met Republican Senator Steve Daines on March 26 where the Kazakh president underscored Kazakhstans focus on attracting investment, economic liberalization, and industrial development, outlining energy, mineral exploration and processing, and infrastructure modernization as key areas of mutual interest, according an official press release.

Tuniyaz was sanctioned in 2021 for playing a leading role in the persecution of the Uyghurs, and other Muslim minorities in Chinas western province, where Beijing led an expansive crackdown and internment camp system.

The dual meetings highlight Kazakhstans long-held balancing act between foreign partners. Amid an intensifying global competition between Beijing and Washington, Toqaev is looking to stay out of the fray and remain on good terms with both countries.

Across The Supercontinent

Huthi Deal: The Yemen-based Huthis have told China and Russia after talks with their diplomats that their ships can sail through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden without being attacked, according to Bloomberg, citing several people with knowledge of the militant groups discussions.

Railroad Plans: Amid months of behind-the-scenes talks, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov said a common understanding on the mechanism for implementing the much-discussed China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway has been reached, RFE/RLs Kyrgyz Service reports.

Balkan Buddies: Speaking after a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, who is also acting prime minister, said on March 21 that relations with Russia and China are in Belgrade's vital national interest.

Hikvision And a NATO Base in Romania: A few weeks ago, RFE/RL journalists in Romania found Chinese-made surveillance equipment installed at some 28 military sites in the country -- including the NATO base that is home to the Aegis Ashore missile-defense system.

Heres a new video explainer breaking down the investigation.

One Thing To Watch

The U.S. and British governments accused hackers linked to the Chinese state on March 25 of being behind malicious cybercampaigns targeting political figures. London also alleged that China-affiliated hackers were behind an attack that saw the data of millions of voters accessed.

The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance On China (IPAC), a group of Western lawmakers, were also targeted by the group. My colleagues at RFE/RLs Romanian Service spoke with local lawmakers affected.

While major powers are often looking to infiltrate each others networks and gain new information, the decision to so forcibly go public is likely to ramp up tensions with China.

The Chinese Embassy in London outright denied the allegations, calling them completely fabricated and malicious slanders.

Thats all from me for now. Dont forget to send me any questions, comments, or tips that you might have.

Until next time,

Reid Standish
A rally organized by Hungarian government critic Peter Magyar attracted thousands on March 26. The businessman addressed protesters outside the building of the Supreme Court and Prosecutor-General's Office. Earlier in the day, he released a recording in which his ex-wife -- former Justice Minister Judit Varga -- appeared to admit officials could interfere in police investigations. Varga said she had made the remarks under pressure from Magyar. The formerly government-linked Magyar came out as a surprising voice of Hungarian dissent after Varga and the country's president, Katalin Novak, resigned over pardoning a convict in a pedophilia case.
Malcolm Nance is an expert in terrorism, extremism, and insurgency and a best-selling author of several books, including Defeating ISIS: Who They Are, How They Fight, What They Believe. He previously served in the U.S. Navy as a naval cryptologist, participating in antiterrorism and intelligence operations.

In April 2022, two months after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Nance joined the International Legion of Territorial Defense of Ukraine, a unit made up of foreign volunteers.

In the interview, Nance discusses the Kremlin's response to the March 22 attack on the Crocus City Hall that has been claimed by the Islamic State (IS) designated terrorist group and has killed at least 143 people and wounded more than 120. Nance pours water on Russia's claims of Ukrainian involvement and says the Kremlin doesn't care whether it's telling the truth or not.



RFE/RL: Let's start with your verdict over what happened in Moscow, the terror in the Crocus City Hall, as there is still so much confusion around it. Many people at first were claiming it was a false-flag attack. Then IS claimed responsibility. And it was all crowned by Russian President Vladimir Putin coming out and blaming Ukraine.



Malcolm Nance: I wrote a New York Times bestseller called Defeating ISIS. It was an encyclopedia of every [IS] province and terror cell at the time between 2014 and 2017. There is an [IS] element that carries out terrorist operations in Russia. It was depleted over time -- that was the Islamic State-Caucasus Province. And its roles and missions were taken over by Islamic State-Khorasan Province.

That's the [IS] element that is now acting as the skeletal headquarters out of eastern Afghanistan in the Asadabad area. They carry out terrorist attacks against the Afghans, they carry out terrorist attacks against Iran, and they've carried out terrorist attacks against Russia. They view that any place that has a Muslim diaspora, such as Russia, and which carries out activities against Muslims [is a legitimate target for] Islamic State.

The Tavberidze Interviews Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Vazha Tavberidze of RFE/RL's Georgian Service has been interviewing diplomats, military experts, and academics who hold a wide spectrum of opinions about the war's course, causes, and effects. To read all of his interviews, click here.

Always listen to a terrorist group and believe them when they confess -- that's the first thing. Islamic State not only put out an official message from [its official] agency, it showed live-streamed video from the actual terrorists in the attack. A lot of people want to use what they seemingly think are intelligent phrases like false-flag attack. Russia didn't have to do this to themselves; the Islamic State terrorist group is more than capable of it.



But there is a factor which could show some Russian culpability. This is where Russia gained a lot of intelligence from the United States -- which we got upstream, which means somewhere near the headquarters of Islamic State -- [indicating] that there would be an attack somewhere in an open venue sometime in March. What the United States didn't have [was] the specific intelligence that only the terrorists' team leader would know: Who was in the group, how many weapons, what's the exact venue. The Russians were warned of this attack.



But one of the things that intelligence agencies, [and] the former KGB director that runs Russia, could do is what we call a pass-through attack, where they gain the information, they know when the attack is coming. [And] they let the attack happen for political or domestic purposes. I'm not saying that's what happened here. I'm giving Islamic State the credit that they are due, because they are a murderous terrorist group.



RFE/RL: It's ironic that, perhaps for the first time in its existence, Islamic State is trying to convince the world that it was them that was behind the attack.



Nance: It's telling of the information environment that we're living in now: that a horrible, brutal dictatorship run by Vladimir Putin can use its information agencies and the soft power of disinformation through social media weapons systems like Twitter and Telegram to actually hijack the message of a very well-established mass-murdering terrorist group.

[They can] literally turn it on its head to where there are people right now -- I fight with them every day -- who refuse to believe that [IS] would carry out a terrorist attack in Russia, that it must be the United States, it must be Ukraine. That is how the information environment that we live in today has been so corrupted.



RFE/RL: Having failed to prevent the attack, that wouldn't stop Putin from exploiting it now, right? So what are some of the key areas where the Kremlin will try to capitalize on it and use it for its own purposes?



Nance: The first thing they'll want to do is to harness the outrage of the Russian people. This is a pain-and-suffering situation where real people have died. There are going to be families that are grieving, there will be funerals, there will be outrage.

In a dictatorial police state, which is what Russia is, you can harness that outrage, you can harness that grief, you can broadcast it on a very, very wide scale using national TV channels, which essentially are run by the Kremlin. You can try to use that to stoke outrage to get the next mobilization, the 100,000 men, the multiple new divisions that Russia is calling for, to essentially harness a little bit of whatever patriotic feeling they have, to essentially get the people who would have been reluctant to want to help Mother Russia, to actually want to stand up and take part and attack an enemy that has nothing to do with it.

RFE/RL: What would be the reaction from the government in a Western country as opposed to what we're seeing in Russia?



Nance: A Western country would have immediately tried to contain the situation. They would have handled the law enforcement aspects of this within laws, without abuse, without [allegedly] cutting off a prisoner's ear. You can see [on the attack suspects] obvious, clear, open signs of torture.

Shaun Pinner (a former British soldier who joined the Ukrainian military in 2018 and has fought against Russian forces), himself a prisoner of war, said that they use plastic bags over the head as torture as a routine way of handling you, and the prisoner was brought [into court] with the actual plastic bag over his head.

Western nations don't do thisfor the most part. We've seen abuses in the past, of course, you know, the French in Algeria, the United States in Iraq, Vietnam. But as we develop, we work within those laws and we want to actually prosecute these individuals. In Russia, they're using an exploitation routine in which they show the brutality, because their own citizenry wants to see that brutality in response to this attack.



RFE/RL: There is also a question of taking responsibility at a domestic level, right? Would it be fair to assume, if this had happened in any Western country, at least the head of the security service would have resigned by now and quite possibly the president or the prime minister of the country. With that in mind, will Putin be in any way blamed for the attack in Russia?



Nance: No, not at all. No one will blame them for it. And [from] the swift way that they caught [the suspected attackers] -- if these four Tajiks are the actual perpetrators; they look like it, they match the videos, they match the language -- this is going to be a trial and a summary execution and Vladimir Putin is going to want to exploit this as much as possible.



RFE/RL: Regarding blaming Ukraine for the attack. Do the Russian claims hold water? Putin himself claimed these attackers were moving toward the Ukrainian border, which would mean hiking through the most densely mined forest in the world. How watertight is the Russian claim?



Nance: It's a colander, right? It's more than Swiss cheese. It's literally a spaghetti strainer and [water] just flows out of it.

There are different types of cover stories that an intelligence agency can give, or a leader like Vladimir Putin, who was a KGB officer, can give. They can try to create one which is opaque as possible, which [plays on] the nebulousness of the way terrorist groups act. Or the way Russia is doing it now, which is what we call a Saran wrap. It is completely clear. They wrap it around [everything], [and] they don't care that you can actually see the falseness of the story.

RFE/RL: You mentioned that the apprehended suspects were tortured and we've seen some footage suggesting that might be the case. When you're tortured like that, surely you will say anything that they want you to say? You will say that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy himself came to you and knocked on your door in Tajikistan and [asked] you to do this.



Nance: The first signs that I thought I saw of torture was not [the signs of beatings] we could obviously see when these guys were captured. It was the immediate confession, in which they said the reason they carried out this attack was for money, like 5 million rubles ($54,062), some ridiculously small amount.

If there's anything that my decades of working against Islamic terrorists have taught me, it is that they don't do any of this for money. They do this for the love of God; they do this to punish you. They literally were saying this during the attack: We are here killing the [infidels].



What that showed me is that they had already been guided into what they were going to be saying. Then we started seeing the physical signs of torture.

I taught an entire school, I ran a school, on how to survive a hostage [situation] and terrorist captivity. The first thing we teach you is that when you are tortured, you will open your mouth, you will say something. We teach our people what to say, right?

What happens with someone who is not prepared for this is that every person reaches a breaking point. As you said, you will say that Volodymyr Zelenskiy dispatched Mickey Mouse with an envelope of 5 million rubles to your home. You will say any ridiculous thing that is put in your mouth for the sake of stopping the torture.



RFE/RL: You say they never do it for money. They also don't usually let themselves be captured. So why did these four suspects?



Nance: This is another very, very strange component of this. This is why people start leaning into conspiracy theories.

With Islamic State, there is no exit on a terrorist operation. A key part of it is not surviving so that you reach martyrdom. Martyrdom is the goal of many of these missions. You don't want to die a martyr until you brought many of the infidels' deaths and have improved the world for the advancement of Islam, or Al-Qaeda and [IS's] corrupt cult-like variant of Islam.

I was quite surprised that they had an escape plan, got back into the same van [with] Belarusian plates, and started driving back in the direction of Belarus. A good terrorist commander who wants to sustain a campaign will do what we call, withdraw, rearm, restrike. So go back to the safe house, go back to the van, get more ammunition, go to a second venue -- but the goal is to reach God.

RFE/RL: They obviously have not reached that goal.



Nance: No, and this is where you start to wonder. I'm telling you as a professional with over some 30-odd years of intelligence activities and background. It's quite possible that it was a real Islamic State mission with real Islamic State handling. But it's not implausible that it was allowed to pass through and be carried out but was actually handled by an officer of a foreign intelligence agency like [Russia's Federal Security Service], where they corrupted their orders.

Your orders would have been go in, kill, go die, you know, in holy jihad, in holy martyrdom, and maybe your intermediate handler was working for another state agency and said: Withdraw and start driving away to Belarus so we can capture you. It's Byzantine.
Statement of Senator Risa Hontiveros on China's recent attack vs Philippine resupply ship

I am enraged at how China's water cannons relentlessly attacked our Filipino personnel. Kung may hindi pa magagalit dito, baka hindi na sila Pilipino.

I support DFA's lodging of a strong protest against this recent harassment, but I also call on the Department to expedite the filing of a resolution in the UN General Assembly that calls on China to stop this blatant violence in Philippine waters.

I also hope the DFA can gather our neighbors in Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam and Malaysia, to stand with the Philippines as we face common security threats and assaults by China.

This is urgent. Bugbog na ang ating mga tropa sa karagatan. Let us show our troops that we are also taking concrete steps to fight for them in all diplomatic and political avenues available to us.

China's white hulls are nothing but gray hulls in disguise. Her "police actions" are unlawful acts of aggression under international law.

Dapat bayaran din ng Tsina ang pagsira niya sa mga barkong binombahan niya ng tubig, pati na ang pagpapagamot sa mga Pilipinong sinaktan niya. Isabay narin ang pagbayad sa milyon-milyong halaga ng likas-yaman na winasak niya.

To China, you should be ashamed. Stop behaving like a criminal. Have some decency. It's not too late to act like a dignified country.
A Buffalo man arrested after an altercation Monday night may face homicide charges following the death of the assault victim, Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn reported.

Craig M. Lynch Jr., 22, was arraigned Wednesday morning before Buffalo City Court Judge Gary A. Wilson Jr. on a charge of second-degree assault, a Class D felony, and was ordered held without bail pending an investigation into further charges.

Lynch is accused of causing injuries to a 32-year-old man during an altercation about 9:20 p.m. Monday at an address in the 100 block of Minnesota Avenue in the University Heights neighborhood.

The other man was taken by ambulance to Erie County Medical Center with head and face injuries and later died.

Lynch is scheduled to return to court Monday April 1 for a felony hearing. If convicted of the assault charge, he faces a maximum sentence of seven years in prison.

Flynn said prosecutors recommended that Lynch be held while an investigation continues into possible homicide-related charges.

- Dale Anderson
Raimbek Matraimov has been described as a living symbol of corruption by Kyrgyz media. A former customs official allegedly at the heart of a smuggling ring worth hundreds of millions of dollars, he has now appeared in court in Bishkek after being detained in Azerbaijan the previous day.
Navalny: The Trial by the Royal Drama Theater in Stockholm brings the late Russian opposition leader's battle against Russian President Vladimir Putin to the stage. The play is based on what is widely seen as a politically motivated court case against Aleksei Navalny, who had returned to Russia in 2021 after surviving a poison attack that he blamed on Kremlin agents. The trial ended with Navalny being sent to prison, where he died in February in suspicious circumstances.
I have a Kalmyk friend who is a doctor, a man who lives in Elista, the capital of Russias Republic of Kalmykia, told RFE/RL. He told me yesterday that his granddaughter in Moscow had been stopped by security forces. After all, they cant even tell whether a person is a Kalmyk, an Uzbek, a Tatar, or a Tajik. We are all the same to them.

In this situation, excesses toward non-Russian citizens of the Russian Federation are possible, the man, also an ethnic Kalmyk, added.

Across Russia, citizens from ethnic minorities are growing increasingly nervous in the wake of the March 22 terrorist attack at a Moscow-area concert venue that left at least 143 people dead.

Security forces quickly apprehended 11 suspects in connection with the violence, all of them believed to be Central Asians. When the four Tajik citizens accused of being the gunmen were brought into a Moscow court, it appeared they had been abused or tortured during and after their detention. Videos posted online purported to show security officers torturing the suspects with electric shocks or by cutting off a portion of one mans ear.

Ethnically motivated violence and other manifestations of xenophobia were soon reported across Russia. Commentators on state media freely used dehumanizing epithets for the suspects.

Many of Russias 30 million nonethnic-Russian citizens -- a large number of whom practice the countrys second-largest religion, Islam -- are worried. Increased attention from the police and other security agents, ethnically motivated violence from self-appointed Russian-nationalist vigilantes, hate comments on the Internet, and formal encroachments on the status of the so-called ethnic republics like Kalmykia are some of the concerns mentioned in conversations with RFE/RL.

It would be naive to suppose your average xenophobe is going to check your birth certificate or your passport before humiliating you, an ethnic Kazakh woman in the southern Astrakhan region said. RFE/RL has withheld the identities of the people inside Russia who were interviewed for this article out of safety concerns.

The woman added that, even before the deadly events at the Crocus City Hall, Russia was a place where xenophobiahas long been normalized as a background phenomenon.

The ethnic republics, many of which are on the Volga River or in the North Caucasus, are regions in which groups that are in the minority in Russia as a whole make up the majority or a large portion of the population.

WATCH: Russian authorities have charged four Tajik suspects over the deadly mass shooting on March 22. News of the arrests appears to have fueled a spike in xenophobic incidents targeting Tajiks and other migrants in Russia.

A Bashkir woman in Ufa, the capital of the Republic of Bashkortostan, also said the rising xenophobia worried her.

This could affect non-Russians in Russia as well, she said. This has always affected non-Russians  a contemptuous attitude toward Tatars, mocking Bashkirs, insulting epithets for Yakuts. We have all seen this and know it well.

'Saying Nasty Things More Loudly'

[The] Kremlins promotion of hate and xenophobia poisons ethnic Russians and puts non-Russians in danger, the exiled opposition group Free Nations of Post-Russia Forum, which unites representatives of Russias ethnic minorities and calls for the decolonization of captive nations, wrote in a March 26 social media post. The post was accompanied by a video showing young Russian men in the Moscow subway verbally harassing an ethnic Yakut woman and chanting racist slogans, including Russia for Russians, as passersby ignored them.

A Tatar man who lives in Ufa said that after the Crocus attack, racists in Russia had already begun saying their nasty things more loudly.

An ethnic Tatar in Izhevsk, capital of the Republic of Udmurtia, said there have been xenophobic incidents targeting Central Asians in his city. An Uzbek woman who runs a cigarette stand told him her customers had been complaining of police intimidating them for bribes.

This wave has also reached us Russian citizens, he added, but only in a light form. My co-workers have begun joking about terrorist pigs.

A Nogai woman in Astrakhan said disregard for migrants and for non-Russian Russians are directly interconnected things, adding that she heard people who look oriental are being stopped and checked in Russian cities.

What do they mean by that? she said. I suppose I look oriental, but I am part of a native community of Russia, just like a huge number of people from other communities. I was born here. Im a citizen. I speak fluent Russian. But what does that matter? Does it mean that I wont have to be subject to innumerable humiliating checks in the subway? That I wont be rudely turned away by landlords? That people wont tell me to go back to my country? That I wont hear ethnic slurs or comments about the language Im speakingor about my religion? Of course, it doesnt.

She added that she feels solidarity with the Central Asian victims of Russian xenophobia.

I dont distinguish myself from those people, she said. Actually, I dont have a choice of whether to distinguish myself or not. My fellow countrymen dont see any difference.

Although President Vladimir Putin and other officials frequently laud Russia as a multiethnic, multi-confessional federation, minority activists have long complained that Putin has undermined federalism in the country and diminished the status of the countrys ethnic republics such as Tatarstan and Bashkortostan.

Self-exiled Tatar activist Ruslan Aisin, in an essay for RFE/RLs Idel.Realities, noted that Moscow has used similar crises in the past to further centralize power in Russia. Most notably, following the 2004 Beslan school hostage crisis, Putin eliminated the direct election of regional governors.

The fight against terrorism in Russia, as a rule, is twisted into a fight against political opposition, freedom of speech, democratic processes, and the rights of the countrys ethnic communities, he said.

After the terrorist attack, talk of starting a campaign to liquidate the [ethnic] republics might become action, Aisin wrote. After all, they need a new internal enemy and a new source of all problems now that the liberal opposition has been eliminated, independent media shut down, intellectuals silenced, and young people intimidated. What remains? Ethnic communities.

After the March 15-17 election that awarded Putin a fifth term as president, self-exiled Bashkir activist Ruslan Gabbasov told RFE/RL he thought it was possible the Kremlin would liquidate the ethnic republics this year.

Such a step would be in keeping with the logic of the evolution of the Putin regime, Gabbasov said, describing the Kremlins domestic and foreign policies as imperialist and colonial.

A Tatar woman in Kazan said she has often felt as if I am a foreigner because I am not Russian.

It seems we need to remind people that we are a multiethnic country, and we have to be tolerant of one another, she said. I understand where all the anger is coming from [after the Crocus attack]. But the state simply cant be encouraging intolerance toward migrants.

Written by RFE/RLs Robert Coalson based on reporting by RFE/RLs Idel.Realities. RFE/RLs Russian Service and Caucasus.Realities contributed to this report
The deadly terrorist attack on Crocus City Hall outside Moscow has triggered a flood of unsubstantiated assessments spread widely in Russia.

They include suggestions that the Islamic State (IS) militant group, which claimed responsibility, could not have carried out the attack because its attackers die for the cause and never accept payment.



But experts say such conclusions are inaccurate and based on false assumptions.



Russian President Vladimir Putin has blamed "radical Islamists" for the attack that left at least 143 people dead, while questioning whether members of a group who "position themselves as faithful Muslims would carry out an attack during the holy month of Ramadan.



That, along with Putin's steadfast avoidance of specifically identifying IS as behind the attack and allegations of Ukrainian involvement, has highlighted the doubt the Kremlin has tried to cast on both ISs claim of responsibility and on foreign intelligence identifying a regional branch of the militant group as the perpetrator.



Experts widely agree that the attack was "classic IS," while noting the claim was backed by video evidence released by IS's multilingual propaganda machine and that the militant group had made its hostility to Russia publicly known.



"The attack in the Moscow region has been claimed by the Islamic State's central leadership and its official propaganda apparatus," said Lucas Webber, co-founder of Militant.Wire.com. "The attack was almost certainly conducted by the Islamic State and the brutal and indiscriminate nature of the attack fits with the MO [modus operandi] of the Islamic State's international terrorists and operations."

IS, which Russia has fought in Syria, Iraq, and Africa and which has regional affiliates near Russia's borders, first identified Russia as one of its primary enemies in 2014. The enmity "intensified in 2015 when Russia intervened militarily in Syria to support [Syrian President Bashar al-Assad]'s government, and it continued to intensify after Russia's various military and private military-contractor interventions across Africa," Webber said.



Another common assumption is that all IS attacks are suicide missions, with those who carry them out either blowing themselves up or fighting to the death for the cause.



Moscow has detained at least 11 people in connection with the attack and has charged four of them, all said to be Tajik nationals apprehended 350 kilometers southwest of Moscow, near the border with Ukraine and Belarus, and accused of taking part in the attack.



"Just because attackers aren't suicide attackers doesn't mean they aren't IS," said Colin Clarke, director of research for the New York-based Soufan Group think tank.



"For one, the terrorists could've avoided procuring large amounts of explosives for suicide vests as part of their operational security," Clarke said. "Second, they may have intended to escape so they could strike again, and thus decided against a martyrdom operation. There isn't one uniform approach to conducting these kinds of attacks."



While IS claimed responsibility as a whole, U.S. and French intelligence among others have specified that Islamic State-Khorasan, the Afghanistan branch, carried out the attack.

That four of the suspects captured and charged by Russia are believed to be Tajik has also steered many observers to pin blame on IS-K, which has also been accused of carrying out recent attacks in Afghanistan, Iran, and Turkey, among others.



IS-K is made up of Afghan and foreign fighters, particularly from Central Asia.



Riccardo Valle, director of research for The Khorasan Diary, an online platform that tracks militant groups in Afghanistan and Pakistan, said there is no direct evidence at this point clearly tying IS-K specifically to the attack.



"Some people are bringing pieces of evidence, such as the ethnicity of the attackers, as clear evidence that Islamic State-Khorasan is behind the attack, but that isn't sufficient," Valle said.



"There are several things, some stronger, some weaker that could suggest the possible involvement to different degrees by the Islamic State-Khorasan," Valle said. "What I mean is that the Islamic State-Khorasan might have actually provided support, whether financial, logistical, or communications, to a local cell that carried out the attack."

Valle explained that the IS network is fluid and includes regional affiliates and local cells. In the case of IS-K, the group may have influenced the attackers even if not directly involved.



Valle singled out IS-K's extensive propaganda arm, which "for the past three years has been majorly focusing on Russia." That effort, which includes the dissemination of material in English, Pashto, Russian, Uzbek, and Tajik, among other languages on a variety of platforms, "might have galvanized local cells and sparked the idea of planning attacks in Russia."



Experts said it is not unprecedented for perpetrators of IS attacks to attempt to flee.



Abdul Sayed, a Sweden-based researcher who tracks militant groups in South Asia, said the IS playbook allows for attacks that do not involve suicide and that "it is not the first time that an IS attacker escaped."



As one example, Sayed noted an attack targeting Chinese citizens at the Longan Hotel in Kabul in December 2022 in which one of the attackers escaped and reemerged a few days later to carry out a suicide bombing.



Specifying other IS attacks tied to IS-K, Webber mentioned the Kabul hotel attack, a church shooting in Istanbul in January, and a mosque attack in Shiraz, Iran, last August.

Russia has not acknowledged IS's claim of responsibility for the March 22 attack near Moscow.

In his latest comments on March 25, Putin did not blame the attack on IS, saying that unnamed "radical Islamists" were behind the attack. In a backhanded reference, he alleged that the United States was "trying to convince its satellites and other countries" that "there is supposedly no Kyiv trace in the Moscow terrorist attack" and that it was committed by followers of the "IS organization banned in Russia."



Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in an article published by the Komsomolskaya Pravda newspaper, accused Washington of using the "bogeyman" of IS to cover for its "wards" in Kyiv.

Zakharova followed up on March 27 by saying that it was "extremely hard to believe" that IS had the capabilities to carry out the attack on Crocus City Hall, the deadliest Russia has suffered in 20 years. She continued to double down on the assertion that Ukraine was involved, without providing evidence.

Ukraine, which Russia invaded in 2014 prior to its all-out invasion in 2022, has strongly denied any involvement in the attack.

Russian politicians, pro-Kremlin pundits and media, and online voices and bots have taken the baton from Putin and Zakharova, feeding the notion that the alleged attempt by the suspected attackers to flee to Ukraine cast doubt on whether they were really members of IS.



One argument being made to support that idea comes from an alleged confession apparently made under duress by suspects after their capture.



Unverified coverage of an interrogation of one of the alleged attackers quoted the man as saying he had been offered 500,000 rubles (about $5,000) to carry out the attack on Crocus City Hall.

Valle of the Khorasan Diary emphasized that "these statements made by the captured attackers have been made under conditions that are near torture, if not blatantly torture, and that under those conditions people tend to say things that might not be true."



But Valle said that even if attackers are paid, it should not be taken as an indication that they are not working for IS.



"Fighting for the Islamic State does not mean that someone is not also interested in money," Valle said, suggesting payment could not only go to the attacker but to the attacker's relatives, friends, or others in their circle. "There is also the possibility that attackers in such cases might survive, so they might use this money for other potential operations."



Sayed said it is common for the authorities where IS attacks have taken place to claim the attackers were paid, although he personally has not seen evidence to support those claims.



Clarke said perpetrators of terror attacks could potentially accept payment or carry them out in the pursuit of their ideology, or both.



"There were instances of attacks in Iraq where individuals rolled up as part of Al-Qaeda in Iraq were paid to emplace improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Some families of Palestinian suicide attackers reportedly received payments following their deaths," Clarke said. "But to say that terrorists do this for money would be inaccurate. They aren't criminals; there is a political and ideological element at play."
A Depew man charged in a home invasion case has been sentenced to 20 years in prison, Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announced.

Jason K. Evans, 37, also was ordered by Erie County Court Judge Susan Eagan to undergo five years of supervision after he is released.

Evans and a co-defendant, Mark S. Shadle, 34, of Kenmore, were found guilty of first-degree burglary and first-degree robbery on Dec. 8 after a seven-day jury trial. Judge Eagan sentenced Shadle to 23 years to life in prison last month as a persistent violent felony offender.

Prosecutors said Evans and Shadle broke into a residence on Bucyrus Drive in Amherst shortly before midnight on Oct. 28, 2022, beating the homeowner and stealing items from the house.

A family member returned home and found the homeowner, who had been bound up. He was treated at Erie County Medical Center for serious injuries to his head, chest, arms and legs.
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Four Tajiks are accused by the Russian authorities of storming a Moscow-region concert hall and killing scores of people. Edward Lemon, a professor at Texas A&M University, says Tajiks have been recruited to Islamist extremist groups largely inside Russia, with recruiters often targeting disenfranchised migrants.
Twelve days after Erie County Holding Center inmate Richard Metcalf Jr. died, officials from county government and the Sheriffs Office traded emails about their investigation.

Then-Undersheriff Mark Wipperman wrote to Michelle Parker, of the county Attorneys Office, that the report from the Professional Standards Division investigator was probably going to be one page.

Coverage of the Richard Metcalf Jr. civil trial The 2012 death of Erie County Holding Center inmate Richard Metcalf Jr. is the subject of a civil trial that began with opening statements Feb

He/us reviewed the entire incident from start to finish, Wipperman wrote, and there was no evidence suggesting excessive force.

The same day, Dec. 12, 2012, a three-page preliminary report was issued with that conclusion. The report showed no indications the investigator spoke with two key jail personnel involved in the extraction of Metcalf from his cell or his restraint on a medical examination table where a spit mask and a pillowcase were placed over Metcalfs head.

These details, revealed in court in recent days as a former top jail official took the witness stand in the civil trial over Metcalfs death, shed light on internal deliberations and, in the view of attorneys representing Metcalfs family, cast further doubt on how the Sheriffs Office handled the matter.

Richard Metcalf's father shares with jury 'nightmare' of what happened to son "When he was born," Metcalf Sr. told a jury last week, "we became a lot closer than you normally would because we were constantly holding him and encouraged to make a strong bond with him to give him the best opportunity to not only get better, but survive the operation he had." Metcalf Sr.'s testimony came in the civil trial against Erie County and five current and former county Holding Center deputies in connection with his son's death.

In 2016, the state Commission of Correction concluded that jail deputies asphyxiated Metcalf through their restraint methods, including by tying the spit mask around his neck, covering his head with a pillowcase and keeping him face down on an exam table for nearly 30 minutes.

The county, along with five current and former jail deputies, have been accused in a lawsuit by Metcalfs father of excessive force, negligence and deprivation of medical care.

A fair investigation would be a neutral and objective review of the facts surrounding the incident, former Jail Management Superintendent Thomas Diina told the jury on Monday.

When asked if seeing the preliminary report caused him any concern that the investigation was not independent, Diina said it did not.

Diina said he didnt know why there were no statements from either Sgt. Robert Dee or Sgt. Matthew Cross in the Sheriffs Office internal investigation file.

Former jail sergeant says he 'loosely' placed spit mask, pillowcase over Richard Metcalf's head Erie County Sheriff's Sgt. Matthew Cross put both the "spit mask" and the pillowcase "loosely" on Metcalf's head, but he didn't tie the mask and didn't see who did, he testified.

The email records were one of several glimpses into internal conversations following Metcalfs death on Nov. 30, 2012.

The Dec. 12 emails and others indicate a focus by sheriffs officials on Metcalfs health, and not the actions of deputies.

Attorneys for the defendants objected repeatedly during questioning of Diina and tried to prevent the jury from hearing about documents related to internal communications.

Previous reporting by The Buffalo News revealed that the Sheriffs Office withheld details related to Metcalfs death during early communications with the state Commission of Correction.

Neither a report filed Nov. 29, 2012, before Metcalfs death, or another filed Dec. 3, 2012, after his death, contained information about the use of a spit mask or pillowcase by deputies.

Holding Center sergeant testifies spit mask was applied properly in Metcalf case Former jail Sgt. Robert M. Dee, the supervisor who oversaw what happened to Metcalf that night more than 13 years ago, became the latest defendant to take the witness stand in the civil trial.

Diina, who had been expected to testify earlier in the trial, took the stand for the first time March 21.

He testified that he never saw a final report on Metcalfs death from the Professional Standards Division.

When asked why he never saw a final report, Diina said he probably received a call about the results from Wipperman.

I imagine it does, Diina said when asked if he thought a final report exists.

Diina said he believed the Sheriffs Office internal investigation concluded that the policy violations involving the use of the spit mask and the pillowcase were mitigated by the wildly erratic and assaultive behavior of Metcalf, who deputies said was injuring himself inside his cell and continued to spit in the jail infirmary.

Erie County Sheriff's Office says file on inmate death that was presumed destroyed has been found The confirmation came less than an hour after the judge in the case described in open court a phone call about the file his staff received earlier in the day.

No final report from the Sheriffs Office has been produced in court. The State Police subsequently conducted an investigation prior to the state Commission of Correction.

In an email on Nov. 29, 2012, Wipperman reported getting a phone call from then-Lancaster Police Chief Gerald J. Gill Jr. Wipperman wrote that Gill told him he knows the Metcalf family and he believed Metcalf was a heart transplant patient who had other medical needs.

Diina testified he didnt know why Wipperman would have been talking about Metcalfs health with Gill, but he said he believed the Sheriffs Office was looking into Metcalfs health on that day.

In a phone call with Commission of Correction staff on Dec. 3, 2012, some details of which were reported by The Buffalo News in 2016, Diina reported that Metcalf had been stunned with a Taser twice by Depew police. He also reported that Depew police had not informed jail staff about the use of the Taser when they brought him to the Holding Center.

Diina also reported that Metcalf had twice been taken to Erie County Medical Center, once by Depew police and another time by the Sheriffs Office, and each time he was cleared and returned to law enforcement.

Prominent forensic pathologist testifies inmate was asphyxiated by deputies An Erie County Holding Center inmate died in 2012 because jail deputies asphyxiated him with their restraint methods, a prominent forensic pathologist told a State Supreme Court jury this week.

Diina also reported that Metcalf died of a heart attack.

On Dec. 7, 2012, Diina told the state Commission of Correction that the Sheriffs Offices preliminary investigation indicated that Metcalf suffered a massive heart attack.

When asked what the Sheriffs Offices preliminary investigation was, he said he believed it was what came out of Metcalfs Dec. 1, 2012, autopsy, which was attended by David Marciniak, then-director of correctional health at the Holding Center.

In another thread of emails on March 15, 2013, Parker, from the county Attorneys Office, made what Diina characterized on the stand to be a concerning revelation.

Parker said she had been advised by Marciniak that the county Medical Examiners Office was considering a ruling of homicide in Metcalfs death.

Erie County Sheriff's file on Metcalf investigation likely destroyed, sheriff's official testifies The Erie County Sheriff's Office believes the original file of its investigation into the 2012 death of Holding Center inmate Richard Metcalf Jr. was destroyed when it shouldn't have been.

Was that news to you at that point? plaintiff attorney Timothy Hudson asked Diina.

Very much so, Diina said.

That would be bad for the jail? Hudson asked.

Yes, Diina said.

On the same day as the emails about the medical examiners potential opinion, two jail deputies filed new reports related to Metcalfs final moments inside the Holding Center.

Former medical examiner returns to witness stand to correct earlier testimony in Metcalf case When Dr. Dianne R. Vertes testified last month, she was asked if she had spoken to any representative of Erie County over the four days she spent on the witness stand. On Tuesday, Vertes told a different story, testifying that she spoke with an investigator with the county Medical Examiner's Office regarding the 2012 death of Richard Metcalf Jr.

According to copies of statements introduced in the case, former jail Deputy Robert States reported that Metcalf was grabbing while being taken on a gurney from the jail infirmary to a waiting ambulance.

Deputy Robert Kadryna also reported Metcalf was struggling the entire time as he was taken to the ambulance. Video from inside the Holding Center did not support those claims. Diin a said he didnt know why those statements were filed on March 15, 2013.

Then-Chief Medical Examiner Dianne Vertes issued her final autopsy report a month later. Vertes ruled Metcalfs death a homicide, but concluded he died of a heart attack, with underlying disease and treatment/maltreatment while incarcerated as contributing factors.

The Commission of Correction said it unilaterally rejects Vertes conclusions.

Testimony in Metcalf trial focuses on official's shocked reaction to learning spit mask was used David Marciniak, who was director of correctional health at the Erie County Holding Center, told jurors in the civil trial over the death of Richard Metcalf Jr. about Jail Management Superintendent Thomas Diina's statement about a spit mask.

Diina told the jury the use of a pillowcase violated jail rules and called the action unprofessional on its face, but also said there were mitigating circumstances since the decision was made during a very chaotic incident.

He said the use of the pillowcase in this situation was appropriate.

I believe it was their only option, said Diina, who took a new job under Sheriff John Garcias administration as chief of community reintegration.

On March 4, Marciniak testified about being called to Diinas office after Metcalfs autopsy.

We are fd, Diina said to him. He was wearing a spit mask.

Deputies recount what happened to Erie County Holding Center inmate Richard Metcalf Jr. before his death One deputy who helped pull Richard Metcalf Jr. from his cell was defiant that he or any other jail personnel committed any wrongdoing. Another, who taught inmate restraint at the time, told the jury he didn't think at the time about a potentially deadly risk Metcalf faced. A third remembered a couple of things about the incident, but had trouble recalling the rest.

Diina, who testified he was named acting jail superintendent in June 2012, told the jury he didnt recall saying that, though he added he wouldnt be surprised if thats what I said.

Diina said there was a delay in him becoming aware of the existence of the spit mask.
It is a sad reflection of modern Ireland that hundreds of people who died during the Famine in Roscommon workhouse are buried in unmarked graves in Bullys Acre, Fr Francis Beirne, Chairperson of the County Roscommon Famine Commemoration, said during a presentation at a recent council meeting.

Fr Beirne spoke about the impact of The Famine in County Roscommon along with proposals to commemorate the Famine dead in Bully's Acre, Slevinagee off Antogher Road, Roscommon Town.

Bullys Acre is an unmarked graveyard which was used to bury the dead from the nearby workhouse where the Sacred Heart Hospital is now located.

The proposal by Independent councillor Tony Waldron to invite Fr Beirne to make a presentation to members was agreed at a previous meeting.

Cllr Waldron wants the burial ground to be fittingly developed as a commemoration site in conjunction with a designated commemorative centre housed in the nearby former workhouse where most of the victims died.

The famine memorial unveiled in Roscommon back in 1999. Pic. Gerard O'Loughlin

In his presentation, Fr Beirne said that the Great Famine was one of the greatest catastrophes in Irish history, and it had long term consequential effects for successive generations of Irish people.

It altered the demographic, economic, political, cultural and psychological development of our nation. Its impact and repercussions resulted in one million emigrations and similar numbers of deaths which left an indelible mark on every parish, community in this country, he said.

Councillors were told that between the years of 1841 and 1851, the population of County Roscommon decreased by more than 80,000 people, representing the highest population loss - 31% - in any of the counties in Ireland.

During that tragic period of history, Fr Beirne said that people from all walks of life, particularly the poor, experienced starvation, eviction, emigration, disease and death.

It was a grave injustice inflicted on the people. It is hard to imagine that vast amounts of food were being exported from this county when the cry for help was conveniently ignored by those who had the resources to assist, he said.

Fr Beirne said that annual Famine commemorations should be a remembrance of those who died, and a reminder of the grave injustice inflicted on a nation that was poor, vulnerable and had so little to rely on.

It is a sad reflection of modern Ireland that hundreds of victims that died during the famine in Roscommon workhouse are buried in unmarked graves in Bullys Acre, he told councillors.

He said that it should also be noted that many more were buried there in subsequent years up to 1939.

Sadly it is now an open agricultural field with no perimeter fence to designate it as a sacred burial ground. Surely this neither shows respect nor gives due acknowledgment to the forgotten people that died in dire and appalling circumstances.

Substantial funding has been channelled from the national exchequer towards commemorating the famine in various locations but too often the victims are overlooked and not the focus of the commemoration, he said.

Fr. Beirne pointed out that the County Roscommon Famine commemoration committee erected a county famine memorial in 1999 during the centennial years of The Famine. He said it was appropriately located near the entrance to the workhouse and adjacent to the doorsteps of the workhouse reception room, now known as Teach de hIde. It was felt that this would at least identify the location where people in utter destitute sought refuge or sadly died on the doorsteps.

Councillors heard that the dead were subsequently transported to their final resting place in Bullys Acre and buried there like countless others who died within the workhouse.

While this famine memorial goes some way in remembering the famine victims, it does not remove our obligation from the inclusion of the burial site in acknowledging the memory of our ancestor dead.

It would be fitting to develop a commemorative area in the reception rooms of the workhouse that would provide information that could assist tourists and others to guide them to visit Bullys Acre. It should be remembered too that it is not just a Roscommon Town project but the entire county has recorded links with this historic graveyard, he said.

At the end of his presentation, he proposed the following:the development of the workhouse reception area, Teach de hIde, and Bullys Acre as an important cultural memory and an inclusion as a tourism asset in the Roscommon Town heritage trail; the designation of Bullys Acre as a recorded graveyard on the maps of the draft Roscommon Town local area plan and the burial site to be zoned as a public and community infrastructure; the provision of public access to the site of the graveyard, and the construction of an important memorial in recognition of those interred and; the reinstatement of the physical link between the workhouse and its graveyard to include a footpath along the River Jiggy, which would recognise the link the historic and heritage landmarks in the town.

He believed that this proposed walkway would be in line with the Active Travel and healthy living as espoused by national Government policy. He said these development proposals could be successfully implemented with the formulation of policy and with collaboration of stakeholders as well as community engagement.

I am hoping you will give the proposals due consideration and at the same time long overdue recognition of the forgotten famine victims in County Roscommon, he said.

Like all the members who were supportive of the proposals, Cllr Tony Waldron thanked Fr Beirne for his presentation, and believed the proposals would not just lend themselves to a fitting commemoration but it would have huge potential for tourism in the county.

In line with Fr Beirnes proposals, Cllr Waldron made a formal proposal at the council meeting to that effect, and also asked that a secure permitter fence be erected to preserve the sacred burial site.

During a discussion, a number of councillors noted that were Bullys Acres in other parts of the county, a point acknowledged by council CEO, Shane Tiernan.

As CEO Mr Tiernan said it was his duty to be fair, balanced, and remember the entire county. He said that where works are required, a budget line needed to be attached. He said that was why policy was formulated with an input from members which gives us a strong stable footing on how we can deal with these type of situations and how they can be funded - and give them the best chance of equal recognition across the county. In this regard, he asked that the members give the SPC a chance to formulate an appropriate policy and to identify a budget line.

Director of Services Mark Keaveney said it was important that the council had an important countywide policy on this issue, covering every location as they emerged, and examining areas such as access, memorials and funding.

Mr Keaveney explained that the Bullys Acre land in Roscommon was owned by the council but was landlocked and there would be no access until there was negotiation with landowners.

At the end of the discussion, it was agreed that the matter would be referred back in the first instance to the Economic, Development and Enterprise SPC for further consideration.
Chance Glenn, the Buffalo State presidential pick who was due to take office July 1, is out of the job, SUNY announced in a statement Wednesday.

The appointment of Dr. Chance Glenn to lead Buffalo State University has been rescinded, SUNY said.

Glenn, the provost at the University of Houston-Victoria, had come under fire from a faculty member at UHV who raised questions about information he supplied to obtain a National Science Foundation grant for his research.

SUNY spokespeople declined to comment late Wednesday afternoon on why SUNY revoked Glenns job offer.

SUNY said Buffalo State Interim President Bonita Durand has agreed to lead the university through the 2025-26 academic year until a new president is appointed.

Durand came out of retirement to lead the school after her predecessor, Katherine Conway-Turner, retired last June. SUNY said Durand will stay on for the next two academic years and help lead a new presidential search.

Buffalo State selected Glenn from among three finalists and SUNY announced his selection in December.

Earlier this month, the Victoria Advocate, a newspaper in Texas, reported that "some faculty" had raised ethical concerns about discrepancies in his application for the $272,800 National Science Foundation grant, including allegedly misrepresenting his employment by his research company, Morningbird Space Corp., and then changing the application to reflect that his daughter actually runs the company.

Glenn has served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at UHV since Aug. 5, 2019.

After the NSF application discrepancies were raised by a UHV faculty member, Jeff Blodgett, members of the UHV faculty senate told The Buffalo News that few faculty agreed with Blodgett. UHV President Robert Glenn also defended the provost, saying the university had resolved any issues involving Glenn and his research.

New SUNY school presidents are Adiam Tsegai at ECC, Chance Glenn at Buffalo State Both local SUNY schools have been seeking new presidents for most of this year after their former leaders stepped down.

Dona Hamilton Cornell, vice chancellor and vice president for legal affairs and general counsel at UHV, also responded to a March 8 request from The Buffalo News, saying that it was not investigating Glenn.

"There were some compliance issues raised, but they are all resolved and there is nothing pending," she wrote.

Nevertheless, the questions led SUNY to conduct its own investigation.

SUNY Chief Communications Officer Lane Filler said Buffalo State is fortunate that Durand will remain at the helm of Buffalo State for another two years.

We are grateful for Dr. Durands wisdom and service," SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr. said in a statement.

"As interim president, Dr. Durand has provided seamless leadership in enhancing student success and moving the campus toward financial sustainability," King said. "I am grateful that Dr. Durand will continue implementing that work, which will also allow time for a full search for the next campus president.

Durand served at Buffalo State for 22 years before she retired in 2018, including as chief of staff and secretary to the Buffalo State College Council.

In recent months, Durand has led the university in addressing a $16 million deficit by implementing new scholarship programs that boosted enrollment and imposing a hiring freeze.

School officials have said Buffalo State did not reduce staff rapidly enough to offset the budgetary squeeze stemming from a steep drop in enrollment.

Ten years ago, Buffalo States enrollment was 10,000 and it had 1,400 employees. By fall 2022, enrollment had dropped to about 5,900  a decline of more than 40%  while the employee base shrunk by about 14% to 1,200.

It is an honor to continue to serve the Buffalo State students, faculty, and staff  a community I have been proud to be part of for more than 20 years," Durand said in the statement. "I look forward to working with the SUNY Board of Trustees, Chancellor King, and the Buffalo State community to continue to advance our mission to serve our extraordinary students.

Blodgett told The Buffalo News that Glenn listed himself as principal investigator on the NSF grant and that his "primary employment" was with his company, which received the NSF funding to conduct lab tests seeking to prove that distortion of spacetime  the key to achieving so-called "warp speed"  is possible.

However, Glenn was employed full-time at UHV when he applied for the grant and went on to pursue and land what would have been a full-time job at Buffalo State.

The grant was later amended to replace Glenn as the companys principal investigator with his daughter, Rebecca M. Glenn, whose name was not included on the original application.

Glenn previously was the dean of the college of engineering, technology and physical sciences at Alabama A&M University. He earlier served as associate dean in the office of graduate studies at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Glenn received his bachelors degree in electrical engineering from the University of Maryland at College Park, and a masters degree and doctorate in electrical engineering from the Johns Hopkins University. He also holds a certificate for management development from Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Glenn was born in Newark, N.J., but moved to Alabama with his seven siblings to be raised by their grandmother after his parents divorced. He said in a December interview that his story would resonate with many students in the Buffalo region and that he hoped to serve as a model for what students can achieve through the power of education.
Australia will on Thursday release February figures for retail sales and private sector credit, highlighting a light day for Asia-Pacific economic activity.

Retail sales are expected to rise 0.4 percent on month, easing from 1.1 percent in January. Credit is also seen higher by 0.4 percent on month, unchanged from the January reading.

Thailand will see February data for industrial production; in January, production was down 2.94 percent on year.

Finally, the in Malaysia are closed on Thursday for Nuzul Ak-Quran and will re-open on Friday.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

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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.
Samsung (SMSN.L,SSNNF.OB,SSNLF.OB) is currently rolling out a range of AI features to "100 million galaxy users" as per the announcement made last month.

The latest One UI 6.1 update, previously exclusive to Galaxy S24, will bring AI features to a few selected Samsung devices released in 2023, such as Galaxy S23 series, S23 FE, both of the latest Fold and Flip handsets and the Tab S9 series.

The company had previously stated on its website, "Galaxy AI features will be provided for free until at least the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices."

However, devices supporting Android updates and security patches like the Galaxy S22 range won't receive this new update.

The Korean company said that the proposed update will include AI features such as Live Translate, Circle to Search, Note Assist, Instant Slow-mo and generative image editing, but the photo ambient wallpaper feature, which utilizes AI to change wallpaper based on time and weather, will remain exclusive to Galaxy S24 series.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

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Rhodes University FameLab finalists

Tsebang Matlapeng, an MSc student in chemistry, emerged as the representative of Rhodes University for the national FameLab SA final. FameLab, a competition emphasising effective communication of scientific research to a broad audience, underscores the importance of making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging. The local competition, which was part of a two-day preparation workshop facilitated by Jive Media Africa, saw participants striving to explain their research within a concise three-minute presentation.

Tsebang's success, alongside the commendable efforts of runners-up Havilah Nnadozie and Sinetemba Xoxo from the Institute of Water Research, highlights the vibrant scientific community at Rhodes University. The University's focus on nurturing science communication skills among its students is evident in its collaboration with Jive Media Africa and the encouragement from Prof Jo Dames, the Dean of Science.

Reflecting on the workshop, Tsebang praised its fun, informative, and interactive nature, pointing out the crucial role of an engaging and positive learning environment in science communication. She articulated a compelling viewpoint on the significance of science communication, emphasising its potential to bridge the gap between researchers and the broader community. By addressing everyday problems through research and sharing discoveries in a relatable manner, scientists can significantly impact societal well-being.

Tsebang's research in supramolecular chemistry, focusing on the development of new chemical structures with potential applications in creating more effective treatments with fewer side effects, exemplifies the practical relevance of scientific research. Her achievement in the FameLab competition and her dedication to making science accessible underscore the essential role of science communication in modern research.

Rhodes University's commitment to making the FameLab competition an annual event, with the continued partnership of Jive Media Africa, signals a promising future for science communication initiatives at the university. This not only fosters a culture of openness and engagement within the scientific community but also enhances the societal impact of research conducted by its students and faculty.
Mr August will receive his doctorate (honoris causa) on 05 April 2024 during the 09:30 Rhodes University graduation ceremony

By The Division of Communication and Advancement

Rhodes University has proudly announced its decision to bestow upon Mr. Tandabantu Tennyson August the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws (LLD). This prestigious accolade is in recognition of his indomitable spirit, resilience, and unwavering commitment to transforming the lives of numerous young individuals in the Eastern Cape. Mr. Augusts journey is a beacon of hope and inspiration, reflecting his exceptional ability to lead and foster change against all odds.

Born in South Africa on 31 December 1948, Mr. Augusts early life was shaped by his education at Healdtown High School, followed by his pursuit of higher education where he attained a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Transkei, majoring in English and Geography. His quest for knowledge didnt stop there; he furthered his studies at the University of South Africa (UNISA) in Comparative Curriculum Studies, alongside obtaining teaching certificates from Lovedale and Cicira teacher training colleges, with majors in Physical Science, Mathematics, Science, and Mathematics. This solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for his impactful career in education.

In the realm of sports, Mr. August distinguished himself early on. As a student at Lovedale College, he was selected to represent the Border Rugby Union and the South African Rugby Board (SAARB), even competing against the England Rugby

Union in 1972 at Wolfson Stadium, Gqeberha. This sporting prowess paralleled his professional achievements in education, where he began his career as an Assistant Teacher in 1972 at Wongalethu Secondary School, Mdantsane. He became a Principal at the following Schools: Thanga High and Ndamase High Schools. Under his leadership, schools like Ndamase High School consistently achieved over a 90% pass rate in matriculation exams.

His career trajectory showcases a remarkable resilience and dedication to education.

Despite a debilitating car accident in 1981 that left him physically challenged, Mr. August continued to excel professionally. He transitioned from principal positions to significant administrative roles within the Eastern Cape Education Department, ultimately serving as a Deputy Chief Education Specialist in Curriculum Development at the Provincial Head Office and as a Chief Education Specialist in Human Resource Development at Rhubusana District Office, BCM. Notably, his work extended beyond conventional education frameworks to include significant contributions to the welfare of disabled individuals, a testament to his advocacy and commitment to inclusivity.

Mr. Augusts influence extends into various leadership roles in organisations dedicated to the advancement of special education and the support of individuals with disabilities.

As a chairperson for the South African National Association for Special Education (SANASE) and eventually became National Deputy President of SANASE. He is currently an executive member of the Eastern Cape Education Advisory Council (ECEAC), his efforts have been instrumental in shaping policies and practices that enhance the educational landscape for all learners.

His lifetime of achievements has been acknowledged through several awards, including a provincial teaching award of excellence, the 17th Prof Kader Asmal Annual National Teaching Award of Excellence in Teaching, a Certificate of Achievement in the field of rugby, and the MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe (DSRAC) Achievers Award. These accolades underscore his multifaceted contributions to education, sports, and advocacy for the disabled.

Rhodes Universitys decision to honour Mr. August with an honorary Doctor of Laws is a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to service, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. His story is not just one of personal triumph but a reminder of the power of determination, leadership, and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many. Mr. Augusts legacy is a lasting inspiration, and this honorary degree is a recognition of his significant contributions to society, education, and the lives of the disabled in the Eastern Cape and beyond.

Mr. August will receive his doctorate (honoris causa) on 05 April 2024 during the 09:30 Rhodes University graduation ceremony.
TechBuffalo is in search of its next leader to continue addressing the dire need to attract and nurture tech talent in Buffalo.

Sarah Tanbakuchi-Ripa took on the role of TechBuffalo president and chief executive officer in November 2021 as an executive on a three-year loan from M&T Bank. She is scheduled to return to M&T at the end of this year. She joined TechBuffalo shortly after the nonprofit started in 2020.

Bringing many of the area's tech job resources to one place TechBuffalo is trying to make navigating the tech ecosystem a little easier by hosting an event that puts many of the tech resources from the area in one place. Pathways to Tech will take place Sept. 27 at Northland Workforce Training Center, 683 Northland Ave.

Under Tanbakuchi-Ripa, TechBuffalo forged partnerships with educational institutions, community organizations and industry professionals to create pathways to tech careers for a wide range of residents, from students to professionals.

The work has been essential in trying to spark an undersized tech ecosystem in Buffalo, where workers and recent graduates often move away for better opportunities, making local economic development efforts more difficult.

TechBuffalo is now conducting a nationwide search for someone who can continue helping create a sustainable, inclusive and accessible tech ecosystem in Western New York. It has partnered with executive search and talent management consulting firm TalentRise to assist.

Could tech layoffs elsewhere help Buffalo Niagara firms find workers they covet? Could the tech industry's struggles elsewhere be an opportunity for Buffalo Niagara businesses to tap into a new pool of talent and fill tech jobs that have been hard to fill?

Our board is committed to finding a new president and CEO who will continue to advance TechBuffalos mission and improve our regions ability to attract, retain and foster technology talent at all levels, said Michael Moskal, TechBuffalo board chair.

As part of the leadership succession plan, Tanbakuchi-Ripa will assist in the transition to the new executive.

Before joining TechBuffalo, Tanbakuchi-Ripa helped get M&Ts tech hub inside Seneca One tower up and running, and spearheaded the launch of the Western New York Tech Skills Initiative, which provides worker training.

This is an exciting moment in the evolution of Western New Yorks tech and innovation ecosystem, Tanbakuchi-Ripa said. This team is ready and eager to do its part to fuel that growth for the benefit of the community.

For years, tech employment in Western New York has lagged behind the rest of the country, according to a tech workforce report from TechBuffalo, in partnership with the University at Buffalos Regional Institute research center.

Even cities with similar demographics such as Cincinnati, Cleveland, Grand Rapids, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, Rochester and Tulsa have been adding tech jobs at a much faster pace than the Buffalo Niagara region, the report found.

While Buffalo Niagara struggles to keep computer science workers and local recent graduates in the field from moving away, it also struggles to attract them from other places  in part because of the lower wages here.

Half of local tech job postings went unfilled in 2022, the TechBuffalo report said. And 85% of employers reported having challenges hiring tech talent.

As Upstate still lags in tech employment, New York was found to have the third lowest demand among U.S. states for tech workers with 289 industry jobs per 100,000 people living in the state, according to research from data engineering company DevRev.

That is despite having one of the highest numbers of tech job advertisements of any state  at over 55,000  and New York City alone creating a reported $124.7 billion in economic output from the tech industry.

TechBuffalo is one of the entities working to bring potential workers into the fold and trying to solve the disconnect between the skills that employees have and what employers are looking for.

Last year, TechBuffalo brought together more than 2,000 people at more than 25 events and talent development programs, boosting awareness about the growing opportunities for those who want to participate in tech and tech-adjacent fields.

It was one of 40 organizations nationwide selected last year to participate in Microsofts TechSpark program, focused on equitable access to tech skills.

Tech jobs in Buffalo Niagara are expected to grow by 5% by 2032, which is on par with peer cities, though still behind major tech hubs and the country overall. As of 2022, there were 12,000 tech jobs in the region, which is just over 2% of jobs in the region overall, the TechBuffalo report said.
The Biden administration greenlit the seventh large offshore wind project in the United States Tuesday.

Danish wind energy developer rsted and the utility Eversource plan to build a 924-megawatt project, Sunrise Wind, 30 miles (48 kilometers) east of Montauk, New York. They say the wind farm will power about 600,000 New York homes when it opens in 2026.

This month, the companies opened the nation's first commercial-scale offshore wind farm. The 12-turbine wind farm called South Fork Wind is 35 miles (56 kilometers) east of Montauk. They announced their financial commitment to the Sunrise Wind project when the Interior Department issued its decision.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the opening of South Fork and the approval for Sunrise Wind shows "the sky is the limit for offshore wind.

Combined, these seven projects can provide more than 8 gigawatts of clean, renewable energy to power roughly 3 million homes, the Interior Department said. The Biden administration wants enough offshore wind energy to power 10 million homes by 2030.

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said Tuesday's approval is another substantial step toward fulfilling the nation's clean energy goals.

The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
Gelato chef/instructor Filippo Cianciosi, left, owner Paola Richard and chief chemist Panther Wilde inside the kitchen at GelatoLove, which opened its first flavor lab, factory and retail shop Dec. 18 in the Carlsbad Gateway Center.

Five years ago, Paola Richard moved to North County from her native Rome with the goal of opening the most authentic Italian-style gelato shop in the region.

The result was Gaia Gelato, which Richard opened in 2015 with her cousin, Cristina Amoroso, in the Carlsbad Village Faire center. Although she was pleased with the stores success, Richard said adopting a healthy California lifestyle in recent years taught her that Italians could also learn something from Americans.

Thats the story behind GelatoLove, an ambitious frozen dessert business Richard opened Tuesday in the Carlsbad Gateway Center industrial park on Palmer Way. The 2,500-square-foot headquarters is part research-and-development lab, part gelato-making factory, part retail shop and part gelato school.

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A sampler pack of gelato flavors at GelatoLove, which opened its first flavor lab and shop Dec. 18 in the Carlsbad Gateway Center. The companys gelatos are made with the low-calorie sugar substitute allulose, left, a natural sugar found in figs, raisins and other fruits. (Pam Kragen/San Diego Union-Tribune)

GelatoLove is still in the research-and-development stages of creating its signature product, an Italian-style gelato made with a low-calorie natural sweetener called allulose.

Allulose is derived from fruits including figs, kiwi, raisins and jack fruit and has 10 percent of the calories of sucrose (cane or beet sugar). The result is a gelato product that tastes the same and has the same creamy mouth feel of traditional gelato, but with a third of the sugar calories, said Panther Wilde, a research chemist who serves as GelatoLoves ingredient scientist.

Another benefit of allulose is that it isnt metabolized in the same way as sucrose so it doesnt trigger the same spikes in blood glucose levels. Its been commercially produced in South Korea since 2006 in a granular form that looks just like table sugar.

Richard said she believes the resulting made-from-scratch product, which has no additives or artificial ingredients, is even more ideal than the Italian original for calorie-counting, health-conscious Californians.

This is a blending of everything we know about food with the Italian tradition of gelato. We dont want to deconstruct the traditions but we think people are ready for something like this, she said.

Before moving to North County in 2014, Richard was a Rome-based journalist and international media consultant for Italian ministries and environmental groups. She was successful, but longed to move to California. As a teenager, she had trained with a synchronized swimming team in San Francisco and always dreamed of returning. The best way, she realized, was to open a business here selling an Italian product she and her cousin, a trained gelato chef, knew well.

In the short term, Richards goal is to test a number of recipes and flavors with customers who visit the shop at the front of the R&D space. Eventually, she would like to expand the business, opening multiple GelatoLove shops and selling the product wholesale to restaurants, bakeries, coffee houses and high-end markets.

To merge old-world recipes with cutting-edge sweetener food science, Richard hired Filippo Cianciosi, a third-generation gelato chef from Italy. His grandfather opened the familys first gelato shop in 1918.

Filippo Cianciosi, head chef and instructor at GelatoLove in Carlsbad, with a serving of the new companys espresso flavor gelato. GelatoLove opened its first flavor lab, factory and retail shop Dec. 18 in the Carlsbad Gateway Center. (Pam Kragen/San Diego Union-Tribune)

Cianciosi ran several shops in the Italian town of Riccione, but in recent years hes traveled the world as a consultant, training chefs and business entrepreneurs in the art of gelato-making.

On a vacation in the U.S. three years ago, Cianciosi met his future wife, Rachel, a nurse in Huntington Beach. Just days before their wedding last year, he got a call from Richard, who had heard about his consulting travels from a friend. She asked if hed like to come to work for her as the companys lead gelato chef.

I told her, you read my mind. Ive been teaching all over the world but I wanted to be part of something bigger here, Cianciosi said.

Cianciosi said he remembers learning the craft of gelato-making from his father as a little boy and over the years he has developed many trade secrets. But working with allulose was like starting over, because the ingredient doesnt have the same chemical properties of sucrose.

At first it wasnt so good, he said. It was too fluffy, then it was too melty. It took a long time to get it right. Now, if you taste it you cant tell the difference from regular gelato, but it tastes super clean and healthy.

Right now, Cianciosi is focused on fine-tuning flavors, which now number 12, though hes always coming up with new varieties. Hes most proud of his pistachio flavor, an old family recipe, and hes also fond of his espresso flavor.

GelatoLove is priced at $4.50 for a 4.5-ounce cup, $5.75 for 6.5 ounces and $7 for 8 ounces. Its sold by the paper cup and also in reusable clear plastic screw-top tubs, which customers can bring back for refills to save a few trees, Richard said.

The Carlsbad location, with two $35,000 Italian gelato-making machines, has room to grow as orders begin rolling in. But Cianciosi said it will always be an handmade, artisan affair with every container packed by hand.

Eventually, Cianciosi also plans to conduct gelato-tasting and -making classes onsite.

Gelato is still a big mystery to Americans, he said. I want to teach people the secrets of gelato.

GelatoLove

Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. Closed weekends.

Where: 5661 Palmer Way, Suite C, Carlsbad

Phone: (760) 816-8260

Online: gelato.love

pam.kragen@sduniontribune.com
NEW YORK (AP)  A man accused of fatally shoving another person into the path of an oncoming New York City subway train was described Tuesday by his mother and officials as having psychological issues, reviving discussion about how the city should respond to people experiencing mental health crises within the transit system.

The shoving victim, who has not been identified by authorities, was pushed onto the tracks inside an East Harlem subway station shortly before 7 p.m. Monday, police said. The operator of an oncoming train was unable to stop and the person was killed, police said.

The suspected shover, Carlton McPherson, 24, was arrested on a murder charge, a police spokesperson said. McPherson was awaiting arraignment in Manhattan criminal court Tuesday. No information about a defense attorney was available. A call to a Legal Aid attorney who has represented McPherson in a pending assault case in Brooklyn was not returned.

McPhersons mother, Octavia Scouras, told The New York Times her son had been hospitalized for mental health treatment at least twice.

While violence in the nation's largest transit system is rare, being shoved from a subway station's narrow platform onto the track has long loomed large in riders' fears.

The infrequent instances received heightened attention following a spike in crime during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the city debated how best to address homelessness and mental illness in the streets and underground.

Mayor Eric Adams renewed that discussion Tuesday, saying at a City Hall news conference that New York City still has a severe mental health illness problem that played out on 125th Street and Lexington Avenue at the subway station.

After taking office in 2022, Adams launched an effort to tackle crime and homelessness on the subway, sending more police, mental health and social service outreach workers into the system. His plan included involuntarily hospitalizing people, a move fiercely opposed by advocates for people with mental illness.

On Tuesday, he said city officials are still working to get homeless people with mental health issues into treatment. Nearly 7,000 people have checked into shelters since the push began, officials said.

Were there engaging people. Getting people connected to shelter," said Anne Williams-Isom, Adams deputy mayor for health and human services. "Its this concept of keeping them in shelter and getting them the support that they need so theyre not spiraling in and out of the system.

Adams argued that the state should further expand 1999's Kendras Law, which allows courts to order defendants with mental health issues to complete treatment. The law was named for Kendra Webdale, who died after being pushed onto the subway tracks by a man with a history of mental illness.

Adams said that although acts of violence like the fatal shove fuel the perception of lawlessness, subway crime is down nearly 6% since he took office in 2022.

We hear this over and over again: The citys out of control. Its just not true, Adams, a former transit police officer, said at the news conference.

Monday's fatal push happened on the same day that New York City officials announced a plan to send 800 more police officers into the subway system to crack down on fare evasion and an hour after a city police officer was fatally shot during a traffic stop, the first member of the department to be killed in the line of duty in two years.

With subway ridership still lagging after the pandemic, a fall 2023 study by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority found many customers said they'd be more satisfied if the agency addressed quality of life concerns such as panhandling, as well as if there were fewer people behaving erratically in the system.

A smaller portion, around 30%, listed a more visible security presence as a top need. For some commuters, having more police officers around really makes a difference.

When a woman started yelling at Shanita Jones on her daily commute, an officer happened to be on the train.

She was upset with me because I sat right next to her, said Jones, who rides the subways seven days a week for her two jobs as a spa attendant and a home healthcare aide. I told the officer, I think she had a bad day.

In an effort to keep people off the tracks, the MTA has also recently been testing hip-high metal barriers at a handful of subway stations, though the fences have large gaps to allow travelers to get on and off trains.

John OCallaghan, a commuter who works in the textiles industry, lamented the lack of platform safety features present in cities he visits for business, like Hong Kong, where plexiglass walls prevent access onto the tracks.

I stand with my back to the beams, and thats it, OCallaghan said.


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by Staff reporter

ZIMBABWE and South African border authorities have beefed up their teams in preparation for increased human and vehicular traffic during the Easter holidays.South Africa has deployed 400 additional workers to its major border crossing with Zimbabwe at Beitbridge and has predicted that one million travellers will pass through its ports of entry/exit during the Easter weekend between March 29 and April 1.Zimbabwean border officials increased their staff complement and activated the Border Efficiency Management plan used to clear traffic during the festive season.The number of people crossing at the Beitbridge border post increases three-fold during major holidays, including Easter. The South African Border Management Authority has also employed a four-phase strategy to address potential challenges at the ports of entry and has deployed 400 additional junior border guards at its busiest ports of entry.A total of seven million travellers use the Beitbridge Border Post yearly while 1 200 commercial trucks, 200 buses and 3 000 light vehicles cross the port of entry daily.Regional Immigration Officer (RIO) in-charge of Beitbridge, Mr Joshua Chibundu, said they had adequate manpower to clear traffic at all the three terminals."Following the recent deployment of additional staff and the separation of traffic into the three terminals, we anticipate to have no problem in the clearance of large volumes of traffic associated with Easter holidays," said Mr Chibundu."We have cancelled off and leave days so that we have all hands on the deck. In fact, there will be a standby team to ensure that we have adequate staff in the event that large volumes of travellers approach the border."Predictions from both Zimbabweans and South African officials are that traffic is likely to increase as many Christians, especially those going to Moria in South Africa, are set to flock in their numbers.The Zion Christian Church (ZCC) in Limpopo province will open for the first time this year since the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions in the past two years.South Africa's head of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Mike Masiapato, said they were ready to deal with any influx in traffic, especially at Beitbridge."The Easter operational plan is supported by various other law enforcement structures such as the South African Police Service (SAPS), South African Revenue Service (SARS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Cross Border Road Transport Agency, and various traffic authorities," said Dr Masiapato."As is the norm, this Easter Operational Plan contains four phases, which include planning, execution, demobilisation and the sustenance phase."He said statistics for the 2023 Easter period showed that ports of entry, which facilitated the majority of the people were Beitbridge to Zimbabwe, Lebombo to Mozambique, Groblers Bridge to Botswana, Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg to Lesotho, OR Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport, Oshoek to Eswatini, Kopfontein to Botswana and Caledonspoort to Lesotho.Dr Masiapato said they were making use of the inter-border management systems with Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, eSwatini and Botswana to enhance operations and in some instances they had agreed on extending operating hours at certain critical ports, which are not operating on a 24-hour basis"Information Technology (IT) support teams have also been deployed to immediately address any kind of system glitches on the ground."As in the previous deployment, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) has been engaged to provide additional infrastructure such as temporary lighting, special temporary barricades, jojo tanks for the provision of water to the travellers at selected land ports and generators to ensure an uninterrupted power system."
(Photo : Pixabay / NickyPe)

For the first time ever, the H5N1 bird flu strain has been detected among dairy cows in Texas and Kansas, becoming the first known cases of the virus in US cows.

Bird Flu Detected in US Dairy Cows

Three weeks ago, these dairy cows got sick with an illness that is similar to a cold. The cows produce less milk than normal. They also exhibited appetite loss and lethargy.

Based on unpasteurized milk samples and nose and throat swabs, it was found that these cows were infected with the H5N1 avian influenza strain. This viral strain is known to be responsible for outbreaks among domesticated and wild birds. It is also known to infect people occasionally.

Considering this new case, officials believe that wild birds could have infected the cows. There were no changes in the bird flu virus that could make it spread more to humans.

For poultry outbreaks, authorities need to cull whole flocks in order to control the viral spread. However, for the cows that tested positive, they apparently recovered on their own, without receiving treatment, within a span of seven to 10 days.

Bird flu infected roughly 10% of the lactating cows in herds that were affected. Michael Payne, biosecurity expert and food animal veterinarian from the University of California, Davis, explains that the situation does not appear like the highly-pathogenic flu among flocks of birds.

Only the milk from healthy cows in the affected farms will be included in the food supply. According to the US Department of Agriculture, the risk is considered low. Moreover, pasteurization, which is necessary for commercial milk, kills bacteria and viruses.

ALSO READ: Avian Flu Detected in Gentoo Penguins for the First Time, Sparks Fear of Infection Among Antarctica's Bird Colonies

Bird Flu in Other Animals

This announcement comes just a week after the news of bird flu detected in goats. These goats had a shared pasture and source of water with chickens and ducks that were infected by the virus. This was on a backyard farm in Minnesota.

Brian Hoefs, the executive director of Minnesota Board of Animal Health and the state veterinarian of Minnesota, the bird flu's spread to goats stresses how the virus could possibly infect other animals on farms that house several species.

So far, the H5N1 bird flu strain has been detected in 48 species of mammals. These include skunks, foxes, seals, polar bears, and raccoons. Payne explains that it could have just been a matter of time until bird flu hit ruminants, such as cud-chewing and hoofed mammals like goats and cattle.

To date, there have been no reports of bird flu being spread from mammals to humans across the US. There have been rare instances where the infections from birds spread to people. Experts note that any infection risk is limited to individuals who are directly in contact with animals that are infected.

RELATED ARTICLE: Bird Flu To Blame for Egg Shortage, Price Hike; Avian Influenza Shows No Signs of Slowing Down

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by George Tshuma

More Details to follow...

In a verdict handed down by the Harare Magistrates Court, Francesco Marconati, aged 65, and his son Alessandro Marconati, aged 25, have been sentenced to 105 hours of community service each. The sentence was pronounced following a trial that captured attention due to its allegations of threats and intimidation within the business realm.The case stems from an incident on September 28, 2022, outside the Harare Magistrates Court premises. Li Song, a director and shareholder at Eagle Italian Shoes [Pvt] Limited, found herself confronted by the Marconatis after attending a court session where Francesco was facing fraud charges, with Li Song being the complainant.During the trial, Li Song recounted the events where Francesco allegedly threatened her, stating, "Be careful that you want to send me to prison, I will kill you if you do not withdraw the case and you are a piece of ####." This confrontation reportedly occurred in the presence of Bernadette Mukuku, who was accompanying Li Song at the time.Further details emerged during the proceedings, with Alessandro also purportedly engaging in aggressive behavior, dragging his father away while hurling insults at Li Song. The State contended that their actions constituted unlawful behavior, aiming to provoke a breach of peace or realizing the potential for such a breach.Francesco Marconati was accused of illegally removing Li Song from her position within the company, which further exacerbated tensions between the parties involved.The magistrate, in the sentencing remarks, emphasized the seriousness of the offense, noting the impact of intimidation and threats within business relationships. While acknowledging the defendants' previously clean records, stressed the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.As part of their sentence, Francesco Marconati will serve his community service hours at Nyanti Police Station, while Alessandro Marconati will undertake his duties at Queens Primary School. Their service period spans from April 3 to May 2, 2024, with working hours set from Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 16:00.The community service sentence reflects the court's commitment to rehabilitation and societal contribution, providing an opportunity for the defendants to reflect on their conduct and make amends for their actions outside the confines of a conventional prison sentence.With this judgment, the Marconatis are expected to fulfill their obligations to the community, serving as a reminder of the consequences of resorting to intimidation and threats in business disputes.
Light show celebrates 1st anniversary of China-Honduras diplomatic ties

Xinhua) 08:28, March 27, 2024

A drone photo taken on March 26, 2024 shows buildings along the Xiangjiang River illuminated to celebrate the first anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Honduras, in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province. (Xinhua/Xue Yuge)

CHANGSHA, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Changsha, the capital of central China's Hunan Province, on Tuesday evening staged an elaborate light show to celebrate the first anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Honduras.

The iconic buildings along the Xiangjiang River in Changsha were illuminated in a spectacle that mirrored the colors of the Honduran flag.

The show was also held to celebrate the recent signature of a letter of intent to begin an official sister city relationship between Changsha and San Pedro Sula, Honduras' largest commercial and economic hub known for its textiles, sugar, brewing, clothing and tobacco industries.

Zhou Haibing, vice governor of Hunan Province and mayor of Changsha, said that Changsha is a vibrant city where historical culture and modern styles blend perfectly, a charming city where natural and urban landscapes coexist harmoniously, and a hub where industrial development and innovation resources complement one another.

Zhou expressed optimism about the vast potential for mutually beneficial cooperation between Changsha and San Pedro Sula, and said he hopes the two cities will write a new chapter in their friendship and work toward a prosperous future of win-win cooperation.

On March 26, 2023, China and Honduras signed a joint communique in Beijing on the establishment of diplomatic relations.

An aerial drone photo taken on March 26, 2024 shows a building illuminated to celebrate the first anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Honduras, in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province. (Xinhua/Li Bo)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
The Chairman of the Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, signed the amendments to the election code, which changed the procedure for electing the chairman and members of the CEC and abolished the position of the CEC deputy with the opposition quota.President Salome Zourabichvili vetoed the bill, but Parliament overcame it and supported the option initiated by the ruling party. Shalva Papuashvili then signed this supported option into law."Today, I signed the law on the amendment to the 'Election Code', which will give the Parliament of Georgia the opportunity to overcome the impasse created by the 'April 19 Agreement' for almost three years and to elect professional members and the chairman of the CEC.The previously valid regulation - electing CEC members by a 2/3 majority and appointing an opposition politician as the alternate chairman-does not exist in any country. It should also be mentioned that this strange rule was not developed based on dialogue between the parties, but was a persistent idea of the mediator, which, in fact, did not work and could not work, especially in the limited time remaining before the next elections," wrote Shalva Papuashvili.Papuashvili suggested that the opposition might leverage the deadlock situation to justify their refusal to acknowledge the election results.At the 71st session of the European Union Integration Commission of Georgia, the 2024 action plan for Georgia's integration into the European Union was approved. The session was held under the leadership of Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. The action plan was developed with the involvement of all agencies and encompasses all directions outlined in the association agreement.The session also heard the annual report on the implementation of the 2023 action plan for Georgia's integration into the European Union.The prospects of integration into the European single market, based on the principles of a deep and comprehensive free trade space, were discussed at the meeting.The meeting also discussed the action plan comprising nine priorities defined by the European Council, new requirements related to Georgia's membership in the Single Euro Payment Area (SEPA), and effective measures necessary for planning, implementing, and monitoring the process of legal convergence with the European Union.
MONTREAL  A major transport company has rerouted cargo away from the Port of Montreal over fears of a potential strike, prompting concerns that others may follow in its wake.

Delmar International, a Quebec-based logistics firm that counts 1,500 employees across 17 countries, said all Montreal-bound freight will now flow through the Port of Halifax in a pre-emptive move to curtail fallout from possible job action.

"While uncertainties persist at the Port of Montreal, Delmar International will reroute all East Coast Montreal-bound cargo via Halifax to limit any negative impact of a potential work stoppage until further notice," the company told customers in a post last week.

Earlier this month, the Canada Industrial Relations Board dismissed a request from Montreal port employers to require employees to work during a strike, opening the gate to a job action or lockout after a six-month freeze while the ask was under consideration. That freeze ended with the board's decision on March 14.

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On Friday, the Maritime Employers Association followed up with a complaint to the labour board that called on it to rekindle talks due to a "bad faith" stance by the union, which it claims has refused to resume bargaining.

"The parties are at an impasse caused by the union's refusal to negotiate," the submission said in French.

"The association is contacting the CIRB to urgently obtain a hearing and remedies to force the union to comply with its obligations and thus allow the resumption of negotiations."

The last meeting between the two sides took place on Jan. 16, according to the filing.

Association spokeswoman Isabelle Pelletier said employers are "very worried" about the consequences of mounting fears that a strike is looming.

"We have strong signals that cargo will be rerouted because of the uncertainty at the Port of Montreal," she said in an email.

The employers, who in their complaint blamed the workers for "scaring away" cargo, noted that they continue to pay employees including those not on the job amid a fall in freight volumes  an "untenable situation" as revenue drops in lockstep with the decrease, the association said.

Story continues

Container shipments fell nearly nine per cent last year, according to tonnage data from the port.

The dockworkers' union, which represents roughly 1,200 Montreal port workers affiliated with the Canadian Union of Public Employees, declined to comment. Wednesday marked the deadline to respond to the employers' labour board complaint.

The collective agreement expired on Dec. 31.

Canadas maritime supply chain has faced several labour disruptions over the past four years, on top of the backlogs and bottlenecks of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last summer, a strike by 7,400 B.C. dockworkers dragged on for 13 days, shutting down the country's biggest port and costing the economy billions of dollars.

In October, an eight-day strike by employees on the locks of the St. Lawrence Seaway halted shipments of grain, iron ore and gasoline along the trade corridor.

And in Montreal, longshore workers last went on strike in August 2020 in a 12-day job action that left 11,500 containers languishing on the waterfront.

Mutual suspicion persists to this day after that standoff, observers say.

Federal Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez on Monday pointed to an apparent "climate of mistrust" between the dockworkers and the Maritime Employers Association, which represents shippers and terminal operators.

Others echoed his concerns.

"It's getting to be an acute situation," said Julia Kuzeljevich, spokeswoman for the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association.

"There are great fears that they'll do a 72-hour strike notice at any point," she said. "Many people are choosing to divert cargo ... It's just a big question mark hanging over the situation."

Before hitting the picket lines, the union would have to hold a strike mandate vote, which it can do at any time. If the vote is successful, job action could kick off three days after executives give the word.

Large retailers would be among the hardest hit by a disruption, said Bob Ballantyne, a senior adviser at the Freight Management Association of Canada, whose nearly 60 members include Canadian Tire Corp., Hudson's Bay Co. and Home Depot Canada.

"In advance, they'll start making other arrangements. I suspect a number of our big retailers and other importers will have already started to do that," Ballantyne said.

"They'll be looking at rerouting primarily to the ports of Halifax and St. John, N.B."

Meanwhile, labour tensions are also simmering just down the line in the transport sector.

Canada's two main railways this month resumed talks with the union representing about 9,200 conductors, engineers and yard workers, a back-and-forth overseen by federal mediators since March 1.

A mandated 60-day period of mediated negotiations followed by a 21-day cooling-off period means a work stoppage at either Canadian National Railway Co. or Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd. could begin as soon as May 21.

In November 2019, a rail strike gripped the country for eight days until CN and 3,000 railroaders reached a tentative deal, ending a job action that halted shipments, triggered layoffs and disrupted industries across the country.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 27, 2024.

Companies in this story: (TSX:CNR, TSX:CP)

Christopher Reynolds, The Canadian Press
Denison Mines logo (CNW Group/Denison Mines Corp.)

TORONTO, March 27, 2024 /CNW/ - Denison Mines Corp. ("Denison") (TSX: DML) (NYSE American: DNN) is proud to announce the signing of a Sustainable Communities Investment Agreement (the "Agreement") with the municipalities of the Northern Village of Beauval, the Northern Village of Ile-a-la Crosse, the Northern Hamlet of Jans Bay, and the Northern Hamlet of Cole Bay (the "Communities"). View PDF version

The Agreement acknowledges that the municipalities are located in northern Saskatchewan and have a desire to work together to develop a regional approach that enables social, economic and cultural revitalization. Denison is focused on developing its flagship Wheeler River project (the "Project") in a sustainable manner that (i) supports Community-led objectives and initiatives and (ii) empowers the Communities to develop their capacity to take advantage of development opportunities and create a positive legacy beyond the lifespan of the Project.

Mayor of Beauval, Nick Daigneault, stated, "The Communities are very excited to enter into the Agreement with Denison, who fully understands our need to sustain our municipalities in Northern Saskatchewan for many years to come. Each of our communities have limited pools of money to tap into and there is only so much tax revenue our communities can garner to tackle both the communities' aging infrastructure as well as important community needs. By partnering with industry, our communities will be able to develop an additional fund that will grow over time and provide us with much needed financial support to see community projects become a reality. Denison has stepped-up to support our communities and I'm hopeful that the Agreement will lead the way as a shining example of how industry can work with our Northern Saskatchewan municipalities. We are grateful for the discussions we have had with Denison's leadership team and the fact that they share, and are excited about, our vision for prosperous and sustainable communities."

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David Cates, President & CEO of Denison, further added, "This Agreement builds upon a foundation of trust and respect established between Denison and the municipalities of Beauval and Ile-a-la Crosse with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in 2018 and 2017, respectively. As Wheeler River has progressed over the last several years, we have listened to, understood, and responded to the interests of the Communities. This Agreement uniquely reflects the Communities' own vision for industry to support a positive legacy of sustainable northern communities. We thank the Communities' leaders and constituents for their support and trust in Denison, and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship."

The Agreement with the Communities establishes commitments for funding to support community development initiatives, with consideration towards contributing to the current and future economic prosperity and sustainability of the Communities by promoting economic development and investments in capital projects, job creation and training, housing, education, and other initiatives. The parties to the Agreement also acknowledge a common goal of facilitating qualified businesses and workers in benefitting from opportunities associated with the Project.

In consideration for contributions to the Communities' initiatives, the Communities have provided their consent and support for the Project and have committed, amongst other things, to support all regulatory approvals issued for the Project related to exploration, evaluation, development, operation, reclamation, and closure activities.

About the Municipalities of Beauval, Ile-a-la Crosse, Cole Bay, Jans Bay

The Municipality of Beauval - "Beautiful Valley" - is located in Northern Saskatchewan overlooking the lovely Beaver River Valley providing a striking view of the river and surrounding nature. The Beaver River offers world-class pickerel fishing, and nearby lakes stocked with abundant Trout and Northern Pike makes Beauval an ideal destination for anglers. The community has a proud history of culture, language, and heritage. In history, Beauval was a trading post location along the Churchill River trade route for the Hudson's Bay Company, this route is still travelled via canoe by history buffs and avid outdoors people for the pristine scenes and memorable nature experience with historic influence.

The Northern Village of Ile-a-la Crosse is located in north-central Saskatchewan at the base of a peninsula extending into Lac Ile-a-la Crosse. The village is the second oldest community in northern Saskatchewan, established in 1776. In 1846, Roman Catholic Missionaries arrived and constructed the Chateau St. Jean Mission and a neighbouring school. The Sisters of Charity of the Roman Catholic Church was initiated soon after and still plays a prominent role within the community. This community is the birthplace of Louis Riel Sr. and was home to Sister Margaret Riel, sister of Louis Riel. The Village has a population of 1,425 (2021 Census) and prominent Aboriginal architect Douglas Cardinal designed Rossignol Elementary School.

The Northern Hamlet of Jans Bay is located in northwest Saskatchewan along the southeast shore of Canoe Lake. Situated west of Beauval on Hwy 965, the community is within close proximity to its sister communities of Cole Bay and Canoe Narrows. This friendly community is surrounded by forest, lakes, and wildlife.

The Northern Hamlet of Cole Bay is located 60 km west of Beauval on the southwest shore of Canoe Lake at the junction of Highway 903 and 965, and is within close proximity to Jans Bay and Canoe Narrows.

About Wheeler River

Wheeler River is the largest undeveloped uranium project in the infrastructure-rich eastern portion of the Athabasca Basin region, in northern Saskatchewan. The project is host to the high-grade Phoenix and Gryphon uranium deposits, discovered by Denison in 2008 and 2014, respectively, and is a joint venture between Denison (90% and operator) and JCU (Canada) Exploration Company Limited ("JCU", 10%). In August 2023, Denison filed a technical report summarizing the results of (i) the feasibility study completed for In-Situ Recovery ("ISR") mining of the high-grade Phoenix uranium deposit and (ii) a cost update to the 2018 Pre-Feasibility Study for conventional underground mining of the basement-hosted Gryphon uranium deposit. Based on the respective studies, both deposits have the potential to be competitive with the lowest cost uranium mining operations in the world. Permitting efforts for the planned Phoenix ISR operation commenced in 2019 and have advanced significantly, with licensing in progress and a draft Environmental Impact Statement submitted for regulatory and public review in October 2022. More information is available in the technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Wheeler River Project Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, Canada" dated August 8, 2023 with an effective date of June 23, 2023, a copy of which is available on Denison's website and under its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml.

About Denison

Denison is a uranium exploration and development company with interests focused in the Athabasca Basin region of northern Saskatchewan, Canada. In addition to Denison's effective 95% interest in its flagship Wheeler River Uranium Project, Denison's interests in Saskatchewan include a 22.5% ownership interest in the McClean Lake Joint Venture, which comprises several uranium deposits and the McClean Lake uranium mill that is contracted to process the ore from the Cigar Lake mine under a toll milling agreement, plus a 25.17% interest in the Midwest Main and Midwest A deposits and a 69.35% interest in the Tthe Heldeth Tue ("THT") and Huskie deposits on the Waterbury Lake property. The Midwest Main, Midwest A, THT and Huskie deposits are located within 20 kilometres of the McClean Lake mill.

Through its 50% ownership of JCU, Denison holds additional interests in various uranium project joint ventures in Canada, including the Millennium project (JCU, 30.099%), the Kiggavik project (JCU, 33.8118%) and Christie Lake (JCU, 34.4508%).

Denison's exploration portfolio includes further interests in properties covering ~385,000 hectares in the Athabasca Basin region.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this press release constitutes "forward-looking information", within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and similar Canadian legislation concerning the business, operations and financial performance and condition of Denison. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes", or the negatives and / or variations of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur", "be achieved" or "has the potential to".

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information pertaining to Denison's current intentions and objectives with respect to, and commitments set forth in, the Agreement; the results of, and estimates, assumptions and projections provided in, the technical report for Wheeler River and the interpretations and expectations with respect thereto; development and expansion plans and objectives for the Project; and expectations regarding its joint venture ownership interests and the continuity of its agreements with its partners and third parties.

Forward looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made, and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Denison to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For example, Denison may decide or otherwise be required to discontinue work at the Project if it is unable to maintain or otherwise secure the necessary resources (such as capital funding, regulatory approvals, etc.) and this could impact Denison's ability to meet the objectives stated in this press release, or the objectives of Denison and any one of the Communities could become misaligned. Denison believes that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable but there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and may differ materially from those anticipated in this forward looking information. For a discussion in respect of risks and other factors that could influence forward-looking events, please refer to the "Risk Factors" in Denison's Management's Discussion & Analysis dated February 29, 2024 available under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca and under Form 6-K available at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml. These factors are not, and should not be construed as, being exhaustive.

Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking information and the assumptions made with respect thereto speaks only as of the date of this press release. Denison does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information after the date of this press release to conform such information to actual results or to changes in its expectations except as otherwise required by applicable legislation.

Denison Announces Signing of Sustainable Communities Investment Agreement (CNW Group/Denison Mines Corp.)

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Yarrow Brown of Housing North

Dr. John VanWagoner, superintendent of Traverse City Area Public Schools

David Mengebier, president and CEO of the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The lack of affordable housing is an issue across Michigan.That issue has become especially severe in northwestern lower Michigan, where the lack of affordable housing is stopping prospective teachers and school staff from taking or keeping jobs in communities in the region.To change the situation, a group of local schools has banded together to form an educational consortium, the Grand Traverse County Housing for Educators. The aim is to help create housing developments and affordable living options to attract and retain teachers and staff.Teachers are one of our many occupations that are affected, says Yarrow Brown, who is director of Housing North , a nonprofit housing advocacy organization that was tapped to help conduct a housing study in the region. In Northwest Michigan, we are in what we call a housing crisis, and its been happening for 20 years now. It sort of came to a head about five or six years ago.The consortium of five school districts includes Grand Traverse Academy Northwest Education Services , and Interlochen Center for the Arts They all have land and a need for teachers, and (for) their whole workforce, including their support staff, Brown says.Last year Housing North was approached by IFF , a community development financial institution (CDFI) to do a housing survey. That assessment showed that workers in 11 out of 35 occupations could not afford to rent or own in a 10-county region., IFF then spent time working with the consortium and community leaders to decide where a potential development of affordable housing could work, what the units would be like, and whether the consortium wanted to own or manage it.At least one housing plan has emerged. The plan is to build a mixed-income development of at least 144 units in Blair Township for school personnel making between 50 percent to 80 percent of the average median income in Grand Traverse County. The units are for those support staff, teachers, principals and administrators with a household income ranging from earning between $28,000 to $100,000.Housing options could range from $750 a month to $1,500 a month for rentals. The proposed housing site is a 60 -80 acre, undeveloped tract owned by the Traverse City Area Public School District.Weve got all of our plans and worked with construction management. We really have everything on paper that we need now, says Dr. John VanWagoner, superintendent of Traverse City Area Public Schools. Its just a matter of putting the cash stack together. Were looking for an appropriation from the state. Weve had a lot of support from our nonprofit partners, Rotary Charities of Grand Traverse City , and the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation.So far, the consortium has received a $50,000 grant for pre-development work from the state of Michigan through the Office of Rural Prosperity . The next steps are securing additional grants for the estimated $12.5 million financial gap.Combined with help from Housing North and other entities, VanWagoner hopes to reach the final steps of the plan.Were thankful for those voices and collective expertise coming together, he says. Were almost to the finish line of a shovel in the ground  if we can just get that last little bit of help from the governor and our legislature.Its hoped that development will be a model of future educator housing developments near Traverse City.VanWagoner says the educational consortium is a step in the right direction and absolutely critical.Traverse City is one of a couple growing areas in the state of Michigan, VanWagoner says. The downside of that happening is that combined with being a tourism destination and the airbnb market and short-term rental housing, it has really caused a housing crunch for us.There is not adequate housing stock for young professionals and their families. Beginning teachers in the area make roughly $40,000 a year  that salary, coupled with college debt, means many cannot find housing in their price range.The issue is the affordability, VanWagoner says. We get plenty of people looking and excited to come here. Weve had 10-12 employees and teachers who accepted the job, and within two to three weeks, called back and said, Ive been trying and I cant find a place to live, now Ive got to take a different position somewhere.Affordable housing is a buzz phrase and at the heart of many topics surrounding the housing crisis, but, in reality, the term affordable means something different to each community, Housing Norths Brown says.We dont want people to be paying more than 30 percent of their income on housing. In general, people who need the housing the most tend to be those that have a more fixed income or have less to spend on housing, she says.The school superintendents approached the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, a charity foundation that serves five counties in northwestern Michigan, and that conversation led to hiring IFF to help fund an analysis of housing needs.We helped fund this IFF real estate study, and IFF did a survey of school personnel to understand what the housing needs are, and what type of housing they are looking for, says David Mengebier, president and CEO of the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, noting that the organization acts as a convener, connecting nonprofits, government and business leaders, and organizations.IFF did some site visits in Blair Township, outside of Traverse City. They gave advice and financing options, and helped design an RFP for real estate developers. They helped the schools decide how many units they wanted, and what kind of income brackets.Mengebier says the collaboration between public, private schools and an ISD working together is sort of unprecedented.I think it just underscores the seriousness of the housing shortage, he says. What school leadership has told us is that they have many open positions for teachers, counselors, and other school personnel. People come up, apply, and get the job, and start looking around for housing. They cannot find housing they can afford, so they leave.As more of the school workforce nears retirement, the demand for new or mid-career teachers will only increase. Therefore, the housing stock also needs to increase.The interesting thing is that schools are uniquely positioned to actually address housing because they own property, and in a lot of cases, the property has utilities and other infrastructure already connected to the property, Mengebier says.Mengebier hopes this development can come to fruition and act as an example for other communities.We, as a community foundation, along with our partners and the schools, see this as a potential model for housing development for school personnel in other parts of the state, he says.
/THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/

VANCOUVER, BC, March 27, 2024 /CNW/ - Macarthur Minerals Limited (TSXV: MMS) (ASX: MIO) (OTCQB: MMSDF) (the Company or Macarthur), is pleased to announce that the pro-rata renounceable rights issue to eligible shareholders concluded on Friday, 22 March 2024, raising $580,760 (before costs).

Macarthur Minerals Limited Logo (CNW Group/Macarthur Minerals Limited)

Macarthur notes that the issue was not offered in Canada where majority of the Company's shareholders reside.

Under the Offer, Macarthur will issue 5,807,600 new fully paid ordinary shares (Shares) and 2,903,788 New Options (subject to rounding) exercisable at A$0.25 and expiring on 27 September 2025 (Options). The Options will be listed on the ASX with the code "MIOO". Additionally, Mahe Capital Pty Ltd will receive 580,000 Options under the same terms pursuant to the Lead Manager Mandate.

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It is noted that the Company's directors and management participated in their entitlements, demonstrating their strong commitment and confidence in the company's project and its future.

The Directors in conjunction with the Lead Manager reserve the right to place the shortfall at their discretion within 3 months of the closing date, as described in the prospectus.

The issuance of the new securities is scheduled for Thursday, 28 March 2024 and trading of these securities on the ASX will commence on a normal settlement basis from Tuesday, 2 April 2024.

Executive Chairman, Cameron McCall commented:

"I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all shareholders who participated in this Rights Issue and extend a warm welcome to new shareholders joining the MIO's register. We deeply value your support for this initiative. Our team remains committed to securing strategic partnership (s) for the Lake Giles Iron Project".

Released On behalf of the Board of Directors, Mr Cameron McCall, Executive Chairman and CEO

Company profile

Macarthur is an iron ore development, and lithium exploration company that is focused on bringing to production its Western Australia iron ore projects. The Lake Giles Iron Project mineral resources include the Ularring hematite resource (approved for development) comprising Indicated resources of 54.5 million tonnes at 47.2% Fe and Inferred resources of 26 million tonnes at 45.4% Fe; and the Lake Giles magnetite resource of 53.9 million tonnes (Measured), 218.7 million tonnes (Indicated) and 997 million tonnes (Inferred). The Lake Giles Iron Project also contains Proven Ore Reserves of 51.9 Mt and Probable Ore Reserves of 184.7Mt. Macarthur also holds 24 square kilometre tenement area iron exploration interests in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. In addition, Macarthur has lithium brine Claims in the emerging Railroad Valley region in Nevada, USA. The Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates presented herein have previously been released to the ASX on March 21, 2022, including supporting JORC reporting tables. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the relevant market announcements and, in the case of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves that all assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the relevant market announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed.

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Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements

Certain of the statements made and information contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements herein, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including but not limited to statements regarding expected completion of the Feasibility Study; conversion of Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves or the eventual mining of the Project, are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release reflect the current expectations, assumptions or beliefs of the Company based upon information currently available to the Company. 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 no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct as actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include but are not limited to: unforeseen technology changes that results in a reduction in iron or magnetite demand or substitution by other metals or materials; the discovery of new large low cost deposits of iron magnetite; the general level of global economic activity; failure to complete the FS; inability to demonstrate economic viability of Mineral Resources; and failure to obtain mining approvals. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Such statements relate to future events and expectations and, as such, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and except as may otherwise be required pursuant to applicable laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE Macarthur Minerals Limited

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Politics

spotlight

Connie Chan undaunted by tough road to reelection

Craig Lee/The Examiner Supervisor Connie Chan at her reelection campaign rally at Argonne Playground in San Francisco on Saturday, March 16, 2024.

Connie Chan is prepared to be outraised and outspent.

The Richmond district supervisor, who is running for a second term in office, said shes firmly aware that her opponent, Marjan Philhour, will likely garner more financial support  but Chan promises not to be out-hustled.

Ive always been underestimated in my life, but definitely in my career, and I come back at it again and again, and I dont give up, Chan told The Examiner.

Chan said her strategy to beat these odds includes highlighting her deep experience in city government, her representation of The Citys Chinese American population and her strong ties to organized labor.

November might test whether those attributes translate into a winning campaign in 2024.

Theres really no magic to this other than hard work, Chan said.

The headwinds against Chan appear to be strong.

If youre Connie, youve got to be nervous, said Todd David, a political consultant for Abundant SF, one of a cadre of well-financed groups hoping to install more politically moderate leaders in San Francisco government.

In 2022, Joel Engardio upset Supervisor Gordon Mar, becoming the first non-Asian American to represent the Sunset District in decades and leaving Chan as the only Chinese-American on the Board of Supervisors.

Labor has suffered losses in recent elections  its favored measure, Proposition B, was overwhelmingly defeated in the March primary election  and will have to deftly divide a limited pool of resources in multiple tightly contested supervisor races.

The districts borders have also changed since Chan defeated Philhour in 2020. They now include the more conservative Sea Cliff neighborhood.

In the face of those obstacles, Chan is embarking on a campaign to position herself as the Richmond district advocate.

Chan launched her campaign last week flanked by labor leaders and a cadre of former and current elected officials. Before heading out to knock on doors, they rallied and lamented what they described as the plutocratic takeover of San Francisco politics.

We are living in a world that is upside down, an impassioned Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin shouted to the crowd at Chans campaign launch. it is our job to turn it right-side up by reelecting Connie Chan.

Campaign finance

Thus far, Chan is close to matching Philhour in campaign fundraising, but that doesnt include the substantial edge Philhour amassed in her race for the Democratic County Central Committee. Chan and Philhour both sought and won seats on the DCCC, a typical move for supervisorial candidates who can benefit from the exposure paid for by their DCCC campaigns that are not subject to the same strict donation limits as supervisorial campaigns.

Chan said she sees her sixth-place finish in the DCCC race as a victory, given the resources poured into the race by the contingent of San Francisco political advocacy organizations commonly referred to as moderate.

But the moderate takeover of the DCCC from San Franciscos progressive contingent was largely successful, greatly curtailing the odds that Chan will win the official Democratic Party endorsement in her race against Philhour in November.

And, moderates note, Philhour won more votes among District 1 voters than Chan did, 7,006 to 6,027.

Chan also has to contend with the well-funded effort launched to defeat her by GrowSF, a political organization with tech roots focused on ousting Chan and Supervisor Dean Preston, the Board of Supervisors only member of Democratic Socialists of America.

The organization argues that Chan has proven to be an obstacle to housing development, a foe of public transit and disconnected from an electorate that overwhelmingly recalled three school-board members and District Attorney Chesa Boudin  efforts Chan did not support.

To date, GrowSFs anti-Chan independent expenditure committee has raised about $72,000 to defeat her.

Im not saying whether I win or not in 2024 somehow has much greater meaning than an election  but no matter what happens, the way that this is unfolding in 2024 speaks in volumes to how fragile our democracy is when people feel like they can approach elections in this manner, Chan said.

Those backing Chans opponent question whether crying foul over the billionaire boogeyman is effective, noting it failed to prevent Boudins recall in 2022.

It seems like the only message (progressives) really have is but for the billionaires, said David of AbundantSF. I hope they keep doing it ... it is a losing message, and I dont know why they keep going back to the well.

experience and allegiances

Recent elections and polls indicate San Francisco voters are displeased with their elected leaders and more than willing to show them the door. But Chan and her allies still tout her long career in and around City Hall, where she worked as an aide to Peskin and former Supervisor Sophie Maxwell.

Chan is now chair of the boards Budget Committee. Although the budget proposal is authored by the mayor, Chan is the supervisor with the most influence over the budget process, and she highlights her stewardship of negotiations.

Chan and her allies highlight Philhours close ties to Mayor London Breed, for whom she previously worked as a senior advisor.

She didnt just work at City Hall, Kim Tavaglione, executive director of the San Francisco Labor Council, told The Examiner. Theres a lot of people who work at City Hall, but she worked specifically for the mayor. Once people realize this, theyre like, Oh, that wont bring about change.

Philhour noted she worked for Breed for less than two years and has worked for leaders at every level of government because I believe that government can do good things for people.

Until this past March I had never won elected office because Ive been up against an entrenched machine that supports the current supervisor, said Philhour, who ran unsuccessfully for supervisor in 2016 and 2020.

Allies in organized labor

Tavaglione said she and other labor organizers plan to stress to voters that Philhour has the support of developers and real-estate interests, while Chan has the support of working-class union members.

When we draw that comparison, it actually does move the needle, Tavaglione said.

However, organized labor may not unanimously fall in line with Chan, and there are several battles to fight across The City.

Labors going to have to make some choices, David said.

Representation in government

After Mars defeat in 2022, Chan is now the only sitting Chinese American supervisor in a city where some 300,000 Asians and Pacific Islanders live.

Our community is not a monolith, and we require more people to represent us because I can not speak for all AAPI, clearly, said Chan, who immigrated to the United States from Hong Kong when she was 13.

Chan argued The Citys toxic political climate has disincentivized Asian Americans from seeking office, noting GrowSFs effort to defeat her was launched shortly after Mars defeat left her as the sole Asian American on the board.

They have absolutely no consideration of what kind of loss it was for the community, Chan said.

Philhour  whose parents immigrated to the United States from the Philippines and Iran  said she isnt disconnected from the immigrant experience common to San Franciscans.

AAPI representation is critically important and I think the reason we have seen so much political change over the past three years is because our Chinese communitys voices need to be reflected in the values and priorities of the people they elect, Philhour said.

Political observers and candidates emphasized to The Examiner that the Asian American community  and the Chinese community specifically  is not a monolith, and its voters do not necessarily value ethnic or racial representation above other factors.

Once upon a time, there was less of that division  wed be proud to have any representation, said former Supervisor Norman Yee, who has endorsed Chan. Now when I talk to some of the folks who once upon a time would come out and support me  not that Im running  they care less if youre Asian American. Its more like no, we want to feel safe, we want algebra for eighth graders, that type of stuff.

Public safety, quality of life

Philhour and her backers have hammered Chan for her record on policing at every turn, counting on concerns over public safety to be at the top of voters minds when they cast a ballot in November.

Chan tries to walk a fine line between acknowledging that Richmond residents have had unnerving experiences  such as seeing a beloved neighborhood shop burglarized or a man having a mental-health crisis near a bus stop  while still touting the crime data that shows the Richmond is a safe neighborhood.

But her opponents have seized on Chans policing positions. Chan has repeatedly questioned whether increased funding for the police department is correlated to public-safety improvements.

Chan said her opponents approach is an old trick in politics  you want your opponents to defend themselves.

Im happy to talk about public safety, Chan said. My vision about public safety  the reality is that law enforcement is key, but a comprehensive public-safety plan is a must.

Philhour, who has the backing of the San Francisco Police Officers Association, is betting that public safety is the central issue for Richmond voters. Chan said she hopes voters will ask themselves toward whom their anger should be directed  the Board of Supervisors or the mayors office.

Richmond residents, she said, want to make sure that they can be heard.

You see a lot of policies coming out of City Hall, coming out of this mayor, are a top-down approach and one-size-fits-all approach, she said.
VANCOUVER, BC, March 27, 2024 /CNW/ - Western Copper and Gold Corporation ("Western" or the "Company") (TSX: WRN) (NYSE American: WRN) announces the launching of a metallurgical testing program (the "Metallurgical Program") for its wholly-owned Casino Copper-Gold Project ("Casino"). Fifteen composite samples were prepared from core acquired in 2023 (the "Drill Program"). Western's Technical and Sustainability Committee, comprised of members from Western, Rio Tinto Canada Inc. and Mitsubishi Materials Corporation, prepared the Drill and Metallurgical Programs.

Drill Program

The 2023 Drill Program consisted of seven holes for 2,244 m ranging from 130 m to 556 m in length. The drill holes were located inside the current pit boundaries and were selected to provide a range of grades, host rocks, and mineralogy for the Metallurgical Program (see Figure 1). The drill holes were also selected to convert indicated resource to measured.

The drill results continue to show the importance of the Core Zone wherein relatively higher grades are encountered as shown by DDH23-05, which intersected 158.5 m of supergene mineralization, in part oxidized, with 0.82% CuEq1. Furthermore, DDH23-04, which is approximately one kilometre west of the Core Zone, and DDH23-06, which is at the northwest edge of the Core Zone, intercepted 86.0 m of 0.56% CuEq1 and 174.0 m of 0.52% CuEq1, respectively, in the supergene zone. Table 1 includes all results from the Drill Program.

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Metallurgical Program

The fifteen composite samples represent supergene and hypogene mineralization at various grades and will be subjected to comminution and flotation tests to produce a definitive concentrate from each composite. The results from this testing will be used to develop a more detailed geometallurgical model of the deposit. The test program is being carried out at ALS Metallurgy, based in Kamloops, BC, and is being supervised by Western, Rio Tinto Canada Inc., and Mitsubishi Materials Corporation personnel.

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Table 1: 2023 drill program results

Zone3 From To Length Cu (%) Au (g/t) Mo (%) Ag (g/t) CuEq1 DDH23-01















CAP 0.0 100.2 100.2 0.02 0.28 0.011 2.3 0.28 Supergene 100.2 244.2 144.0 0.19 0.31 0.008 2.3 0.46 SUS 100.2 244.2 144.0 0.19 0.31 0.008 2.3 0.46 HYP 244.2 400.0 155.8 0.08 0.13 0.002 1.0 0.19 DDH23-02















CAP 3.2 72.2 69.0 0.02 0.25 0.006 1.4 0.22 Supergene 72.2 229.0 156.8 0.21 0.32 0.013 1.9 0.50 SOX 72.2 92.5 20.3 0.11 0.25 0.006 1.5 0.31 SUS 92.5 229.0 136.5 0.22 0.33 0.014 1.9 0.52 HYP 229.0 556.0 327.0 0.17 0.21 0.016 1.2 0.38 DDH23-03















CAP 22.1 25.1 3.0 0.06 0.10 0.002 0.7 0.14 Supergene 25.1 109.5 84.5 0.24 0.22 0.006 1.5 0.43 SOX 25.1 42.6 17.5 0.19 0.19 0.003 1.3 0.34 SUS 42.6 109.5 66.9 0.26 0.23 0.006 1.6 0.45 HYP 109.5 528.0 418.5 0.18 0.23 0.018 2.4 0.43 DDH23-04















CAP 4.7 56.6 51.9 0.04 0.15 0.021 1.9 0.25 Supergene 56.6 142.6 86.0 0.30 0.20 0.027 2.4 0.56 SUS 56.6 142.6 86.0 0.30 0.20 0.027 2.4 0.56 DDH23-05















CAP 5.6 72.0 66.4 0.03 0.21 0.031 1.0 0.31 Supergene 72.0 230.5 158.5 0.37 0.41 0.039 1.6 0.82 SOX 72.0 159.0 87.0 0.39 0.39 0.043 1.5 0.84 SUS 159.0 230.5 71.5 0.35 0.44 0.032 1.9 0.79 DDH23-06















CAP 8.5 20.5 12.0 0.07 0.40 0.010 2.2 0.41 Supergene 20.5 194.5 174.0 0.21 0.36 0.013 1.6 0.52 SOX 20.5 86.5 66.0 0.25 0.53 0.013 2.0 0.69 SUS 86.5 194.5 108.0 0.18 0.25 0.012 1.4 0.41 HYP 194.5 256.8 62.3 0.06 0.07 0.011 0.6 0.16 DDH23-07















CAP - - - - - - -

Supergene 34.2 77.1 42.9 0.22 0.18 0.006 1.3 0.39 SUS 34.2 77.1 42.9 0.22 0.18 0.006 1.3 0.39 HYP 77.1 130.3 53.2 0.24 0.25 0.014 1.8 0.48

1CuEq metal prices: $US 3.60/lb Cu, $US 1700/oz Au, $US 14/lb Mo, $US 22/lb Ag with no adjustment for metallurgical recovery. 2Widths are core length, not true width of mineralized intersection 3CAP  leached cap, SUS  supergene sulphide, SOX  supergene oxide, HYP - hypogene

Figure 1: Drill hole map showing 2023 drilling (NAD83 / UTM Zone 7N). (CNW Group/Western Copper and Gold Corporation)

Qualified Persons

The geological information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosures for Minerals Projects of the Canadian Securities Administrators ("NI 43-101") and supervised, reviewed, and verified by Bill Williams, CPG and Interim Chair of Western, who is a "Qualified Person" as defined by NI 43-101.

QA/QC protocol for DDH22-01, including assurance of chain of custody, has been implemented. Core samples are evenly cut by rock saw, then prepared and analyzed by ALS Geochemistry. Prepared samples are initially run using a four-acid digestion process and conventional multi-element ICP-AES analysis. Additional assaying for total copper and molybdenum is run using a four-acid digestion  AES or AAS method to a 0.001% detection limit. Gold assays are run using 30-gram samples by fire assay with an AA finish to a 0.005 ppm detection limit, with samples greater than 10 ppm finished gravimetrically. The QA/QC procedure involves regular submission of Certified Analytical Standards and property-specific duplicates. Check samples are also included and are sent to a secondary lab to test the primary labs' methods/procedures.

ABOUT WESTERN COPPER AND GOLD CORPORATION

Western Copper and Gold Corporation is developing the Casino Project, Canada's premier copper-gold mine in the Yukon Territory and one of the most economic greenfield copper-gold mining projects in the world. For more information, visit www.westerncopperandgold.com.

The Company is committed to working collaboratively with our First Nations and local communities to progress the Casino project, using internationally recognized responsible mining technologies and practices.

On behalf of the board,

"Sandeep Singh"

Sandeep Singh

Chief Executive Officer

Western Copper and Gold Corporation

Cautionary Disclaimer Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning anticipated developments in Western's operations in future periods. Statements that are not historical fact are "forward-looking statements" as that term is defined in the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" as that term is defined in National Instrument 51-102 ("NI 51-102") of the Canadian Securities Administrators (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible" and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results "will", "may", "could" or "should" occur or be achieved. In making the forward-looking statements herein, the Company has applied certain material assumptions including, but not limited to, the assumption that general business conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner.

Forward-looking statements are statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and actual results, performance or achievements of Western and its subsidiaries may differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. Such risks and other factors include, among others, risks involved in fluctuations in gold, copper and other commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; uncertainty of estimates of capital and operating costs, recovery rates, production estimates and estimated economic return; risks related to joint venture operations; risks related to cooperation of government agencies and First Nations in the development of the property and the issuance of required permits; risks related to the need to obtain additional financing to develop the property and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in construction projects and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals; and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in Western's AIF and Form 40-F, and other information released by Western and filed with the applicable regulatory agencies.

Western's forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, expectations and opinions of management on the date the statements are made, and Western does not assume, and expressly disclaims, any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Western Copper and Gold Corporation logo (CNW Group/Western Copper and Gold Corporation)

SOURCE Western Copper and Gold Corporation

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The market spotlight on Wednesday would be on the European Commission's economic sentiment index for the month of March.

The results were of that survey were scheduled for 1000 GMT.

They would be preceded at 0800 GMT by a preliminary reading on Spanish consumer prices in March.

On home shores, at 1030 GMT the Bank of England's Financial Policy Committee would release its meeting statement and minutes.

At 1430 GMT the U.S. Department of Energy would publish its latest weekly inventory oil data.

Wednesday 27 March

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BioPharma Credit , Corero Network Security, Downing Renewables & Infrastructure Trust, Ecora Resources, Norman Broadbent , Old Mutual Limited NPV (DI), S4 Capital, Spectra Systems Corporation, The Artisanal Spirits Company, Vanquis Banking Group 20, Windward Ltd. NPV (DI)

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Almost 8 million UK jobs could be lost to artificial intelligence in a jobs apocalypse, according to a report warning that women, younger workers and those on lower wages are at most risk from automation. The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) said that entry level, part-time and administrative jobs were most exposed to being replaced by AI under a worst-case scenario for the rollout of new technologies in the next three to five years.  Guardian

The CBI has used gagging clauses to prevent staff from discussing their experiences of sexual misconduct and bullying at the organisation, the Guardian can reveal. Up to 10 non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) have been signed in the past year after the lobbying groups sexual misconduct scandal, in which more than a dozen staff alleged they had been victims of sexual harassment, assault and rape. Those agreements have been accompanied by substantial financial settlements from the CBI.  Guardian

Europe plans to build enough new gas power stations to supply 60 million homes despite a target of decarbonising electricity grids by the middle of the 2030s. About 72 gigawatts-worth of new gas-fired power stations are planned across the Continent, according to a report from pressure group Beyond Fossil Fuels. Gas power capacity across the Continent is on track to rise by 27pc under current proposals, despite a promise among G7 nations to decarbonise electricity grids by 2035.  Telegraph

The boss of the worlds biggest investment group has warned that snowballing US government debt has reached very dangerous levels. Larry Fink, the chairman and chief executive of BlackRock, raised the alarm in his annual letter to investors, saying that in America, the situation is more urgent than I can ever remember.  The Times

Two Nottingham-based entrepreneurs have banked more than 100 million after they sold their graphic design software company to Canva, of Australia, in a deal worth several hundred million pounds. Gary Bates, 54, and Jim Bryce, 59, owned about two thirds of Serif, which is known for its Affinity range of software for professional designers.  The Times
The Book Industry Charitable Foundation has announced the Susan Kamil Scholarship for Emerging Writers, a new $10,000 scholarship, to be given to five booksellers or comic retailers, that will provide aspiring writer-booksellers the financial support to focus on a full-length manuscript. The scholarship was established by Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and author Charles Duhigg and his wife, Liz Alter, a professor of biology at California State University Monterey Bay. Binc is administering the scholarship.

Any writer working on a full-length manuscript, graphic novel, or comic who is currently employed at a physical book or comic store in the U.S. and has been for a minimum of three months is eligible. The application period began March 25 and runs through April 7. To learn more about eligibility and apply, click here.

Kamil was executive v-p and publisher of Random House when she died in 2019. Her publishing career, spanning more than 40 years, began in the 1970s working in the children's book division of Macmillan. Over those years she was known for recognizing new literary voices and introducing them to the public.

"She so loved writers," said Duhigg. "It was never about what was best for Susan, but about how she could help an author find their voice and their story--and then share that story with readers. She devoted her life to this business, and I hope she would be happy to know that she continues to inspire emerging writers and support their careers."

He added: "I've been lucky to meet many booksellers over the years and have always been struck by their passion and enthusiasm for getting books in the hands of readers. I wanted to give back to this great community of book lovers, and know from friends of booksellers and store owners that many are writers themselves. I hope this helps someone who loves to write and is working on a draft; that it gives them a boost and helps to push them over the finish line."

The panel of judges deciding the first five scholarships are Chriscynethia Floyd, v-p and publisher of Our Daily Bread Publishing; Lillian Li, author of Number One Chinese Restaurant and Bad Asians (2025); Lindsay Lynch, author of Do Tell and a book buyer for Parnassus Books, Nashville, Tenn.; and Jonathan Putnam, author of the Lincoln & Speed Mystery series.

"We are so grateful for Charles' and Liz's support," said Binc executive director Pam French. "Their generosity has the power to change the lives of booksellers and comic retailers who also have a passion to write and create. I look forward to reading more stories from book people."
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in a 'productive and candid' dialogue regarding the diverse bilateral relations between India and Malaysia, alongside regional and global affairs, with his Malaysian counterpart Mohamad bin Haji Hasan. This discussion took place during Jaishankar's visit to Kuala Lumpur, marking the concluding leg of his three-nation tour covering Singapore, the Philippines, and Malaysia.

During the meeting with Hasan, Jaishankar delved into various aspects of Malaysia-India bilateral relations, exchanging perspectives on mutual interests, and addressing regional and international challenges. The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the discussion as "productive and candid," highlighting the exploration of multifaceted dimensions within the bilateral relationship.

Among the topics covered were plans for high-level exchanges and the scheduling of the 7th Joint Commission Meeting between Malaysia and India. This encounter marked the first official meeting between Jaishankar and Hasan since Hasan assumed office in December 2023.

Later in the day, Jaishankar is set to meet Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo. The visit aims to bolster cooperation between India and Malaysia while fostering a deeper understanding of shared opportunities and challenges.
TORONTO  Two animal rights organizations have requested a review of a new Ontario law that expands a licensing regime that allows dogs to track down captive coyotes, foxes and rabbits in massive fenced-in pens.

Last year, the province passed legislation that would allow the expansion of licences for so-called "train and trial" areas where hunters can bring their dogs to search for, and chase down, wild animals. The dog sport has seen its numbers dwindle since past Progressive Conservative premier Mike Harris's government made new licences illegal and allowed others to phase out.

Animal Justice and Coyote Watch Canada filed the review request last week under the province's Environmental Bill of Rights, asking Natural Resources and Forestry Minister Graydon Smith to both stop the train and trial area expansion plans as well as phase out existing ones.

"The more that we learn about these penned dog-hunt areas, the more we're concerned about the risks to wildlife and the risks to public health as well," Camille Labchuk, executive director of Animal Justice, said in an interview.

The training component sees hunting dogs let loose in these areas, which are often hundreds of hectares in size, but fenced in around the perimeter. The dogs learn to hunt animals such as coyotes, which are caught in the wild and re-homed to these areas.

The trialing portion involves competitions with judges who score the dogs on their hunting skills. Points are awarded and champions crowned.

The law says wildlife is not to be hurt during these practice hunts, but the reality is different, two former conservation officers told The Canadian Press last year.

The former officers, Rick Maw and Wayne Lintack, spoke out about the province's plan to expand the dog sport, saying it was cruel towards wildlife, particularly coyotes.

They said coyotes had been hurt and killed by dogs in the past. The pair also spoke about uncovering a coyote trade ring where the animals were caught illegally, stuffed into a small room in a barn and sold off to other hunters to be used in other train and trial areas.

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Last year, after lobbying from hunters, Doug Fords government decided to expand the sport. The Ontario Sporting Dog Association said no animal is hurt in the sport. The expansion also has the support of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters.

The province has proposed to grant new licences through a one-time 90-day application period, which is expected to open soon, and allow licences to be transferred to new owners.

The sport is "cruel and inhumane," the animal rights organizations say in their review application.

"These operations subject captive animals to horrific physical and psychological distress, and also create an unsafe environment for the dogs who are trained to chase these animals being used as live bait," Animal Justice and Coyote Watch Canada said in their application.

Animals to be used as bait in the sport are to be trapped humanely, the law states.

The minister declined to comment, saying he has not yet had time to review the application.

The ministry said it is also reviewing the application.

"Currently, all train and trial facilities are operated responsibly and meet strict regulatory requirements, including meeting care standards for wildlife," said Marcela Mayo, a spokesperson with the ministry.

"We are committed to ensuring this continues."

Conservation officers inspect the facilities and "will take necessary enforcement action, as they have in the past, and as they will continue to do in the future," Mayo said.

There were more than 60 such train and trial areas in 1997, but that number has fallen to 24 provincewide. The law made it illegal to sell or transfer those licences.

No other province allows such train and trial areas using live animals as bait, except for Manitoba, which allows the use of live game birds but no other animals, the review application states.

Fox and coyote penning is banned in most U.S. states, the application notes.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 27, 2024.

Liam Casey, The Canadian Press
Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra and his family have made a significant commitment towards the advancement of education in India, pledging Rs 500 crore over the next five years to Mahindra University. This pledge, starting from the upcoming financial year FY25 and extending till FY29, reflects their dedication to fostering interdisciplinary academic excellence and cultivating multi-skilled leaders dedicated to inclusive and sustainable progress.

Mahindra University, this substantial financial support will play a pivotal role in realizing the university's vision. It will bolster various initiatives aimed at enhancing educational quality and accessibility. Additionally, it will facilitate the training of future leaders equipped to address contemporary challenges through innovative and inclusive approaches. According to a statement released by, this substantial financial support will play a pivotal role in realizing the university's vision. It will bolster various initiatives aimed at enhancing educational quality and accessibility. Additionally, it will facilitate the training of future leaders equipped to address contemporary challenges through innovative and inclusive approaches.

Anand Mahindra has also made a personal pledge of Rs 50 crore to establish the Indira Mahindra School of Education in FY25. Named in memory of his mother, Indira Mahindra, who was a teacher, this school aims to become a beacon of excellence in educational research, practice, and innovation. This endowment underscores Anand Mahindra's commitment to honoring his mother's legacy by nurturing the next generation of educators and educational practices.

The combined pledge of Rs 550 crore represents the latest in a series of educational initiatives supported by Anand Mahindra across the country. Notably, initiatives like the Mahindra United World College India and the Mahindra International School have been instrumental in advancing educational standards and providing opportunities for holistic development.

Anand Mahindra's dedication to education dates back to 1996 when he initiated the 'Nanhi Kali' program. This initiative has positively impacted the lives of over 700,000 underprivileged girls by granting them access to quality education over the past two decades, highlighting his enduring commitment to social empowerment through education.

Mahindra University, established in May 2020 in Hyderabad, has rapidly expanded its academic offerings since its inception. Starting with the School of Engineering, the university now boasts 35 programs across five schools and four centers, spanning undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. With over 4,100 students enrolled, including approximately 10% at the postgraduate level, Mahindra University is poised to become a prominent hub for interdisciplinary learning and research.
Mining conglomerate Vedanta Ltd has a pipeline of more than 50 active projects and expansions to drive growth, which is expected to generate incremental revenue of over USD 6 billion and incremental USD 2.5-3 billion of annual EBITDA upon completion, a top company executive said at an investor event.

These growth initiatives, which the company categorises into the 'Discovery' stage, 'Concept' stage and 'Execution' stage, are spread out across all Vedanta's business segments - aluminium, zinc, base metals, steel, copper and power.

"We continuously explore options to create additional value at all our sites. We currently have several high-impact projects in execution mode, across all our businesses. These will further contribute to our cost leadership, while substantially increasing our operating capacities. These levers will help drive our EBITDA towards the stated target of USD 7.5 billion annually", the company's vice chairman Navin Agarwal said at the event.

Vedanta is expecting a group EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) of USD 5 billion on revenue of USD 17.5 billion in the current fiscal ending March 31.

Some of the significant projects due for immediate commissioning include a refinery expansion at the Lanjigarh Aluminium facility, which will take its capacity from 2 million tonnes per annum to 5 million tonnes, a 1 million tonnes a year expansion at BALCO, commissioning of the Athena and Meenakshi power plants with an aggregate capacity of 2.2 GW that will take the commercial power portfolio to 5 GW, capacity expansion at Gamsberg Zinc facility to deliver 5,00,000 tonnes MIC, and becoming India's largest ferro-alloys producer with 5,00,000 tonnes a year capacity.

The pipeline of growth projects and initiatives represents the steps that Vedanta is taking towards meeting its ambitious guidance on annual EBITDA, which has been projected to reach USD 7.5 billion in the near term. The group has guided towards an EBITDA of USD 6 billion in FY25, representing a growth of nearly 35 per cent year-on-year.

Billionaire Anil Agarwal-owned Vedanta has a unique portfolio of assets among Indian and global companies with metals and minerals - zinc, silver, lead, aluminium, chromium, copper, nickel; oil and gas; a traditional ferrous vertical, including iron ore and steel; and power, including coal and renewable energy; and is now foraying into the manufacturing of semiconductors and display glass.

The company on September 29, 2023, had announced the creation of independent verticals through the demerger of underlying companies, mainly its metals, power, aluminium, and oil and gas businesses to unlock potential value. As part of the vertical split of Vedanta Ltd, shareholders will get one share of each of the five newly-listed companies for every one share of Vedanta. After the demerger, the businesses of Hindustan Zinc as well as the display and semiconductor manufacturing units will remain with Vedanta Limited.

"The demerger is expected to simplify the Group's corporate structure with sector-focused independent businesses. Each of our businesses are at global scale hence the board decided to go for a demerger. We intend to build an asset ownership and entrepreneurship mindset where each company would chart out its growth trajectory.

"The demerger will give global investors, including sovereign wealth funds, retail investors, and strategic investors, direct investment opportunities in dedicated pure-play companies. With listed equity and self-driven management teams, the demerger would also provide individual units a platform to pursue strategic agendas more freely and better align with customers, investment cycles, and end markets", Vedanta had said in its demerger announcement.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Two suspects have been arrested and charged in connection with a frightening Meiers Corners home invasion in December where a 5-year-old girl and a woman were both pistol whipped.

Michael Conley, 28, and Elliot Knight, 28, both residents of Stapleton, were arrested and charged with burglary Wednesday morning, according to a statement from the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Funeral arrangements have been announced for NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller, who was shot and killed during a traffic stop in Queens on Monday.

The funeral service will be held at St. Rose of Lima R.C. Church in Massapequa, Long Island, at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday. Diller will be interred at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, Long Island.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey both shared words of support and an offer of help in response to the toppling of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday.

I reached out to the governor of Maryland, Wes Moore, whos a good friend, and offered any assistance, Hochul said during an appearance on MSNBCs Morning Joe.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Communities with high unemployment around New York City will be the target of a new jobs initiative that Mayor Eric Adams announced Wednesday.

The new initiative, dubbed Jobs NYC, will be a collaborative effort across multiple city agencies to make entry-level city jobs more accessible, launch a new job portal for employers and jobseekers, and host monthly hiring halls in target communities.

As he has for months, Adams touted the citys job recovery since the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and said the new initiative would focus on Black and Latino communities.

While we have a lot to celebrate in recovering all of the private-sector jobs lost during the pandemic  more than a year ahead of schedule  our recovery has not been equitable and it has not yet reached every New Yorker. Thats why we are doing everything we can to make sure New York City remains a city for working-class people, Adams said. Black unemployment is still far too high in New York City and across the nation, but Jobs NYC will bring a whole-of-government effort to meet New Yorkers where they are  helping to build an economy of the future with real pathways to family-sustaining career. This is how we ensure all New Yorkers, particularly those in Black and Brown communities, have access to the jobs of the 21st century, and this is how we can continue to recruit a workforce that is reflective of the diversity of our city.

While Staten Islands three community districts have unemployment rates below the city average of 4.4%, Adams has hosted a series of hiring halls on the Island, including at Stapletons Gerard Carter Center and at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook.

Each borough will now host monthly hiring halls connecting New Yorkers with job opportunities in the municipal workforce, employers interviewing for roles, and community-based organizations connecting talent to training and other opportunities.

The free Jobs NYC online talent portal, managed by the Mayors Office of Talent and Workforce Development and accessible through the MyCity portal, will connect jobseekers to career opportunities, free employment services, and occupational-skills trainings for opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

Last year, the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), headed by Commissioner Dawn Pinnock, also began reducing qualification requirements last June for 17 entry-level municipal titles to make the jobs more accessible.

There is no greater privilege than working for the city and serving our fellow New Yorkers, and thanks to this effort to reevaluate some of the citys more restrictive titles through our Minimum Qualification Requirement reviews, it is our hope that more people than ever will be eligible to join our great municipal workforce, Pinnock said. With the launch of Jobs NYC, we are not only expanding opportunities for New Yorkers to find meaningful employment, but also ensuring that our citys workforce represents the diversity and talent of our communities. Through innovative advancements like the renewed hiring halls and the online jobs and talent portal, we are breaking down barriers, and fostering equity and access in every corner of our city.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- More than two dozen of New York Citys largest unions are standing in solidarity with Staten Island nurses fighting to secure a new contract.

On Wednesday, the nurses at Staten Island University Hospital - Northwell Health (SIUH) delivered a solidarity letter to hospital management signed by 26 major unions supporting the nurses in their ongoing contract negotiations seeking higher wages and increased staffing.
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More than 9m is to be invested in dental services in Northern Ireland.

The funding is aimed at bolstering support for dental practices and protecting public access to health service dental care.

The health minister also confirmed a 6% pay uplift for dentists for the current financial year.

The British Dental Association said the money "falls well short of what's needed" and urged further reform.

In 2022 a BBC investigation found most NHS dental practices in Northern Ireland were not accepting new patients.

The 9.2m investment package for dental services includes:

1m for newly registered child patients through the reestablishment of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme. This scheme provides children aged 0-10 who have not been registered with a dentist with an examination, individualised oral health advice and age-specific fluoride application to teeth to assist with preventing dental decay

4.3m to fund a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions, and root canal treatment for 2024/25. This will support public access to priority treatments

3.9m for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients through a Dental Access Scheme

The pay increase will be backdated to April 2023 and is in line with the recommendations from the DDRB (Doctors' and Dentists' Review Body).

The uplift comes with a 7.3% uplift to non-staff expenses for 2023/24, with a 3% recurrent award in future years.

Minister Robin Swann said he hopes the money "eases some of the pressures on practices and emphasises the importance of the service being provided".

Robin Swann said it was "essential that we have a service that works for both the profession and patients"

Mr Swann said these interventions are designed "to remove some of the barriers that are limiting that access".

"It is essential that we have a service that works for both the profession and patients," he said.

Practices working to an archaic high volume/low margin contractual model already faced delivering some NHS treatments at a loss, and the looming ban on dental amalgam was set to destroy the fragile business model they work to.Ciara Gallagher, Chair of the British Dental Association's Northern Ireland Dental Practice Committee, said: "We get that this is the best the Minister could do at this difficult time, but it falls well short of what needs to be done.""Time will tell if it's enough to bring dentistry in Northern Ireland back from the brink.""Patients are struggling to secure access, and real progress will hinge on real reform and fair funding."

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EU amalgam laws

The health minister also provided an update on the proposed changes to the EU laws relating to dental amalgam and his concerns regarding the implications for Northern Ireland.

"These changes would significantly restrict dentists from placing amalgam fillings, increase costs for patients and have a significant impact on the capacity of a service that is still struggling since the pandemic," he said.

Mr Swann said his view remains that a phase down approach in line with the wider UK position, rather than a phase out, of amalgam is in the best interests of patients in Northern Ireland but that is a matter for the new Windsor Framework Democratic Scrutiny Committee to consider in detail, in terms of impacts in Northern Ireland.

He said members of the Stormont Assembly will "wish to consider whether the initiation of the Stormont Brake process is necessary and justified."

The Department of Health has written to the committee to advise of concerns around the significant and persisting impact of the new laws.
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 When Lauren Groff decided to open a bookshop in Florida that would specialise in selling banned books, she got a message from fellow author and bookshop owner Ann Patchett in Tennessee: You fool! Im so proud of you. It made me laugh and it made me wonder what I was getting into, Groff says from her home in Gainesville, Florida. Is she foolish, then? Yes, absolutely. Well see if we attract censure from the state. Well be subject to a fairly substantial pushback when we open. But were prepared for it. My managers are brave and brilliant women. And I have a very large microphone and can make a lot of noise. When her bookshop, Lynx, opens at the end of April, the first thing visitors will see will be a big wall painting of a lynx and the words Watch us fight back. Inside the doors they will see a huge display of banned books. Its not illegal for Groff to sell them. But its becoming harder and harder for young readers to access them in school libraries as pressure from the US state legal systems, politicians and religious and far-right campaigners forces librarians to remove them from the shelves. Public libraries are also affected, with reports of attempts to intimidate, harass or fire librarians, or to defund libraries. Lauren Groff was so surprised when she learned that her novel had been banned that she didnt take it seriously at first. Credit: New York Times The scale is astonishing. According to a report by PEN America, an organisation that advocates for free expression, in the 2022-23 school year there were 3362 cases of books being banned, affecting 1557 titles. This was an increase of 33 per cent on the previous year; 33 states were affected and Florida was the worst. The bans limit the reading of some four million students, particularly those whose families cant afford to buy books. Banned titles range wildly, from literary classics to contemporary bestsellers, from the works of Gustave Flaubert, Toni Morrison and Margaret Atwood to those of Stephen King and Sarah J. Maas. Even Shakespeare was censored in one Florida district. A common theme is anything that discusses race, gender and sexuality.

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Groff and Patchett, both guests of the Melbourne and Sydney writers festivals in May, are much acclaimed and admired authors of bestselling novels. Both have also had books banned. When Patchett discovered in January that her novels The Patron Saint of Liars and Bel Canto were banned, it took her just 45 seconds to start a video on Instagram. Be careful, she says, holding up the novels. Dont read these books. The video had more than 19,000 likes in one day and has been seen by 1.5 million people. Neither author has much idea why their books were targeted. Patchett points out that in The Patron Saint of Liars, which is about unwed mothers, the sex takes place before the story starts. Bel Canto is about terrorists and hostages, and in the end the terrorists get shot. Groff was surprised when her novel Fates and Furies, a portrait of a marriage from both sides, was banned, and at first, she didnt take it seriously. Theres sex in it, she agrees. But maybe one reason both had work banned was because former president Barack Obama put their books on his personal reading lists. Fates and Furies was his favourite book of 2015 and Patchetts These Precious Days, along with Groffs Matrix, made his list in 2021. Kids are not going to be able to see themselves and understand who they are and that what they feel is normal. Its so pernicious. Lauren Groff One thing that alarms both women is that so much banning is set in motion by so few people. Its totally random, says Patchett. You can be looking on a bookshelf, think, Oh, I dont think that should be there and call up. One person has been responsible for banning more than 200 titles just by calling, she says. Groff says most bans are led by two people, imposing their will on millions. Why are school teachers and librarians so afraid of these callers? Its often the threat of legal action. Groff says that in Florida, a law has been proposed that would make teachers vulnerable to criminal charges if they allow books with LGBTQ themes in classrooms. Governor Ron DeSantis House Bill 7, widely known as the Stop WOKE Act, limits discussions and education on race, diversity, equity and inclusion.

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Theres a law in Tennessee that if you go into a school library and you feel the book is inappropriate, youre allowed to bring a civil lawsuit against the library or the teacher, Patchett says. Has that happened? I dont think so. But it creates an atmosphere. Loading The fear of being persecuted or prosecuted has meant many school teachers and librarians are taking books off their shelves even before they are challenged. And in some cases, one book ban may mean all that authors titles are removed. Groff worries that the bans are crucial to marginalised young people who dont have access to books outside school. Kids are not going to be able to see themselves and understand who they are and that what they feel is normal. Its so pernicious, a sneaky shadowy thing thats really disgusting. So she decided to set up Lynx with her husband, Clay Kallman, who comes from a family of booksellers. Hundreds of supporters sent in contributions via crowdfunding. Lynx will be a lighthouse shining out to people who feel lost and left behind, Groff says. Well show them they are beloved, not hated, by the state of Florida. Patchett is already a veteran on the bookselling scene: her Nashville store, Parnassus Books, has been going for more than 12 years. Although shes not involved in the day-to-day running of the store, shes played an increasing role since her business partner, Karen Hayes, retired two years ago. Im in and out, I was there for three hours this morning, she says. Im the face of the store, I talk to staff and customers. Its about having a place where people are welcome, she says, even if all they do is sit and pat her dog, Sparky. Everybody needs a third place to go, after home and work. To feel a warm reception and a community. Its like going to a bar, except youre not drinking.

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Review Eating outWoolloongabba This elevated south-side spot may be Brisbanes best-value restaurant A favourite among local diners in the know, Clarence serves the kind of refined, produce-driven comfort food you could eat all night. Matt Shea March 27, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

1 / 7 Clarence occupies a charming heritage-listed space in Woolloongabba. Markus Ravik 2 / 7 Snap-fried shishitos with pepperoni vinaigrette and French onion dip. Markus Ravik 3 / 7 Cold roasted veal with celery and bagna cauda. Markus Ravik 4 / 7 Coopers Shoot tomatoes with Mont Priscilla cows cheese. Markus Ravik 5 / 7 Pan-roasted duck with red kuri pumpkin, creamed cabbage and plum custard. Markus Ravik 6 / 7 Clarences open kitchen gives dinner service a nice touch of theatre. Markus Ravik 7 / 7 Clarence has attracted a dedicated local following since opening in 2022. Markus Ravik Previous Slide Next Slide 14.5 / 20 How we score Modern Australian$$$ Where, ideally, would you locate a restaurant like Clarence? Imagine this 44-seater in James Street  not one of those flash spots, but somewhere low-lit and intimate such as Essa. It would absolutely crush. Theres a stack of aptitude behind this place. Original owner Ben McShane is a former sous chef at Nineteen at The Star on the Gold Coast, and Umu in London. Before that, he was a junior sous at the now-closed Stokehouse Q and Kiyomi, also at The Star.

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Snap-fried shishitos with pepperoni vinaigrette and French onion dip. Markus Ravik Coming on as partners more recently are Matt Kuhnemann and Mitch Tucker. Kuhnemann worked with McShane at Two Lights, an East London sister restaurant of two Michelin-starred The Clove Club, and went on to the one-starred Elystan Street. Tucker was co-sous with McShane at Nineteen, before becoming that restaurants head chef. They also worked together at Kiyomi and Stokehouse Q. That elevated-dining DNA is always there at Clarence, lurking in the background. Its in the technique and the reverence for produce, and in the classy service, which for the most part effortlessly glides that line between attentiveness and familiarity. Good Food hat 15.5 / 20 Review Its one of Brisbanes classic restaurants. But is it still any good?

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But back in early 2022, McShane originally set out to make a counterpoint to those kinds of restaurants. Clarence was a COVID baby. Temporarily stood down from his position at Nineteen early in the pandemic, for the first time in his career McShane was cooking for himself seven days a week. Instead of restaurant-style food heavy on umami, he gravitated towards lighter flavours and using more vegetables. Its a personal journey McShane wanted to share at Clarence. But you need to be seriously good to pull this off. Without all those big flavours and flourishes, a chef can be left exposed. Thankfully, Clarence nails it more often than not. Cold roasted veal with celery and bagna cauda. Markus Ravik Some of its so wonderfully simple. The fragrance of snap-fried shishitos fills the dining room before they land on the table, tossed in a pepperoni vinaigrette and accompanied by a French onion dip. The peppers are sweet and juicy; the dip given a glow-up with a dash of cream cheese and yoghurt. Its the kind of comfort food you could eat all night.

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Clarences menu is presented as a constantly evolving set (so, fair warning, it will have changed by the time you read this) with three shared entrees; a choice of four mains, which come with sides of duck-fat chips and a leaf salad; and a choice of two desserts. The shishitos are part of an optional selection of snacks. These are worth exploring (despite a slightly ho-hum scallop and potato pave number) given the core menu will set you back  wait, say that price again?!  yes, $75 a person. And this is no slapdash lunchtime prix fixe. Were dining on a Friday night. At 7.30pm. Its stupidly good value, particularly when you consider whats on the plate. Entrees are poached Mooloolaba king prawns; cold roasted veal with bagna cauda; and Coopers Shoot tomatoes from northern NSW. Coopers Shoot tomatoes with Mont Priscilla cows cheese. Markus Ravik Its the tomatoes we end up fighting over. Glossy and sweet, they sit on a bed of Mont Priscilla cows cheese thats been softened out with milk, and pops with notes of citrus and honeysuckle. It plays like the best caprese salad youve never had.

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The veal is also killer. Thinly sliced, roasted medium rare, and finished with the celery and dollops of bagna cauda, it captures Clarences knack for classy restraint. Perhaps a touch too restrained are the prawns, which are served with silky melon gazpacho. Its an adequate dish that never quite adds up to the sum of its parts. Its stupidly good value, particularly when you consider whats on the plate. Of the mains, a duck with red kuri pumpkin, creamed cabbage and plum custard is the pick. Dry-aged and brined before being roasted in the pan, the skin is crisped just so, the meat pink and supple. There are a lot of dud duck dishes out there. This is not one of them. A pan-fried fillet of coral trout with zucchini, basil and a parsley veloute is arguably more accomplished; it pops with colour, and the line-caught fish is cooked exquisitely. But such a heavy, rich sauce doesnt seem suited to the crushingly humid Brisbane summer night on which were dining.

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Pan-roasted duck with red kuri pumpkin, creamed cabbage and plum custard. Markus Ravik For dessert, theres an inspired spin on a Filipino mango royale that swaps out the cream for a semi-set yoghurt mousse. Its light, acidic and clean-eating. A soft chocolate with cherries and whisky raisin ice cream is the opposite, and too heavy for us after such a generous meal. The drinks? We pick over a fabulous little wine list that has no particular thrust other than being Australian and small-producer focused  think, a savoury puncheon-aged Minim Colbinabbin vermentino, or a spicy, creamy Scorpo pinot gris. There are just a few wines by the glass, but our server happily offers to crack a bottle if something in particular takes our interest. Always a nice touch. As for the setting, Clarence leans into its simplicity, making the most of the heritage buildings raw brick walls and high ceilings. The team expanded early last year by knocking through a wall into the neighbouring tenancy, and moving much of the cooking equipment out front behind a curved counter, which gives the dinner service a nice sense of theatre. A newer banquette is mixed with some slightly tired secondhand furniture, but the team is frank about it all being a work in progress. Clarence is a favourite among local diners in the know. Markus Ravik

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Still, you wonder how it would go in a custom fit-out in a buzzier precinct. Not here, in this beautiful old building that sits in the shadow of the monstrous Mater Hill hospital precinct and on Stanley Street, one of those Brisbane arterials that once carried streetcars but these days pumps with traffic. If you dont live in the area, it can be a pain to get to. The restaurant has a dedicated cadre of regulars (and serious food influencers froth over this place regularly), but McShane will tell you Clarence could always be busier. It undoubtedly deserves to be. The low-down Go-to dish: Snap-fried shishitos with French onion dip, $8 Vibe: Elevated-dining DNA and superb value in an unassuming heritage spot. Drinks: Tight list of small-producer Australian wines. Cost: About $160 for two, plus drinks.

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So it appears that, after several more years of consultation, reviews and inquiries, Australias communities of faith will once again be disregarded, cast aside and left to fend for themselves in the land beyond the wall.

For those unfamiliar with the imagery, it comes from George R. R. Martins popular (and confronting) Game of Thrones literary series. In it, a giant ice wall is built to protect the land of Westeros from the horrors of the wintry north  primarily from the legendary dead army that is rumoured to be on the move. The only problem is that there are still humans who live beyond the wall, simple people, unaffectionately known as Wildlings. They are a free folk, a proud folk, with deep history, but fundamentally seen as lesser and cut off from the riches and protections of the mainland.

The school gate aint what it used to be. Credit: HBO

Such it seems is the view of religious people in Australia at this current point in history. Not only are we largely seen as backward and archaic by the elite ruling class, holding onto outdated superstitious beliefs, but also face repeated legislative raiding parties into our communities by state governments and activist media elements (who I like to refer to as the Nights Watch).

This mentality is perhaps most evident when it comes to faith-based higher education, of which I run but a humble chiefdom. We are a significant minority in the Westerosian university landscape, and the inequality is increasingly blatant. Our Wildling students are forced to pay as much as four times the HECS fees of the city dwellers (despite our institutions often outperforming theirs); we have no access to the Maesters citadel (research funding and block grants), and our land rights are rapidly being eroded.
The NSW Supreme Court is set to rule on whether an inquiry should be held into the decades-old conviction of one of three homeless youths jailed over the savage 1988 rape and murder of Janine Balding in Sydney, amid questions about whether DNA evidence may create doubt about his guilt.

Stephen Wayne Shorty Jamieson, now 58, was convicted in 1990 over the abduction, rape and murder of Balding on September 8, 1988, along with Bronson Matthew Blessington and Matthew James Elliott. Jamieson was 22 at the time, while Blessington and Elliott were 14 and 16 respectively.

Janine Balding, 20, was abducted, sexually assaulted and murdered by a gang of youths in Sydney in September 1988.

The 20-year-olds abduction from Sutherland station and murder in Minchinbury shocked Sydneysiders and devastated Baldings family.

NSW Supreme Court Justice Peter Newman jailed the trio for life and recommended they should never be released. This recommendation had no legal effect, but retrospective legislation passed in NSW in 1997, 2001 and 2005 gave it force.
A man has pleaded guilty to leaving a gel blaster pistol on a train, which was found by shocked commuters on a Sydney peak-hour train last Friday.

Passengers alerted rail staff to the replica gun abandoned on a seat, saying a man forgot it when getting off the carriage at Sydenham, in Sydneys inner west, just after 8am.

A gel blaster was found on a train going through Sydenham on Friday morning.

This poor woman who had been sitting across from him was saying out loud, Oh, that man left a gun on the train, a witness on the train told the Herald at the time.

Police were told the man had been sitting alone on the seat after boarding the Eastern Suburbs and Illawarra line train at Allawah, in Sydneys south, about 7.45am.
But the outcome that emerged from the negotiations represents a hardened position compared to the whatever-it-takes solidarity promised to the war-torn nation, whose agricultural exports bring an essential stream of revenue.

The extension of the special regime will feature a larger number of safeguards on products deemed "sensitive": poultry, eggs, sugar, oats, maize, groats and honey, which will be subject to tariffs if their flows exceed the average volumes of the past three years.

The deal will also make it easier for member states to apply "remedial measures" in case of market turmoil, a vague term that opens the door for bans on a national basis.

Altogether, it is estimated the tweaks will make Kyiv lose about 330 million per year.

The beefed-up provisions come amid farmer protests across Europe, some of whom have accused their Ukrainian counterparts of unfair competition. Although the opposition to low-cost Ukrainian imports initially came from neighbouring countries in Eastern Europe, namely Poland, Hungary and Slovakia, it gradually spread to France, which moved from an expansive to a restrictive position on the debate.

Italy and Austria also shifted their stance towards the Polish camp, further complicating the arithmetic. On the other side of the room, Germany, the Netherlands and the Baltic states, among others, resisted the tightening.

The responsibility to break the impasse fell on Belgium, the current holder of the Council's rotating presidency. Belgium submitted a new compromise text on Wednesday morning, which paved the way for the approval later on the day.

"Ambassadors agreed on a new compromise to extend trade measures (ATM) for Ukraine, securing a balanced approach between support for Ukraine and protection of EU agricultural markets," the presidency announced on social media.

It added the text would be presented to the European Parliament for a "swift" resolution.

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A never-ending dispute

Ukraine has historically been one of the world's leading exporters of commodities like sunflower oil, barley, maize and wheat. Russia's all-out war and subsequent blockade of the Black Sea severely hindered the country's ability to ship out its goods, do business and access foreign currency.

In June 2022, the EU lifted all remaining tariffs and quotas on Ukrainian imports to ease the transit via land routes and ensure consistent revenue. But the special regime led to a surge in Ukrainian cereals across neighbouring countries, triggering protests from local farmers, who said the low-cost grain was bringing down prices and filling up storage.

The dispute reached a boiling point in April 2023, when Poland, Hungary and Slovakia slapped overnight bans on a range of agricultural products coming from Ukraine. Romania and Bulgaria quickly warned they would follow suit.

Caught off guard, the Commission struck back, denouncing the prohibitions as unacceptable, unlawful and contrary to the bloc's spirit of solidarity. A group of 12 countries, including Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Austria, said in a joint letter that the single market's integrity was in danger.

The standoff played out for months and saw multiple attempts to resolve the situation through diplomacy and a lawsuit before the World Trade Organization (WTO).

As of today, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia maintain their bans.

Mindful of the topic's explosiveness, the Commission unveiled in January a proposal to extend the free-trade scheme until June 2025 but with significant changes to apply "remedial measures" against disturbances in one or several member states.

The executive also pitched a brand-new safeguard to keep in check the most "sensitive products" coming from Ukraine: poultry, eggs and sugar. If these import volumes increase above the levels seen in 2022 and 2023, an emergency brake would automatically kick in and pre-war tariffs will be slapped.

Following negotiations between the Council and Parliament, the two sides agreed last week to harden the text with three key tweaks:

Oats, maize, groats and honey were added to the list of "sensitive products".

Tariffs will be introduced in 14 days, rather than 21.

The Commission commits to "enhance" the monitoring of wheat and other cereals to detect cases of market turmoil, which can justify "remedial measures."

The amendments, though, failed to satisfy the demands of Poland, France and their allies, which pushed to add wheat to the list of "sensitive products" and extend the reference period to 2021, thus reducing the threshold to slap pre-war tariffs.

This prompted the collapse of the provisional deal the same day it was announced, raising fears of a protracted gridlock.

Wednesday's compromise excludes wheat from the "sensitive products" catalogue but expands the reference period until the second semester of 2021, adding 86 million to the 240 million foreseen under the Commission's original proposal.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a diplomat described the talks as the "last possible mediation" attempt, leaving no further room for maneuver. Another source spoke of a "very, very delicate balance."

The deal still needs to be negotiated with the Parliament and be ratified by co-legislators, meaning a new last-minute surprise cannot be ruled out.

If eventually approved, the extension of free trade will be the last one. During a summit in Brussels last week, EU leaders tasked the Commission with "preparing a solution in the framework of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement," in force since 2017.

This article has been updated with more information about the deal.
A man who expressed a desire to become Australias most prolific serial killer had a warped and utterly abhorrent view that his murder victims life was less valuable, a judge has said as he jailed Kevin James Pettiford for a maximum of 39 years.

Pettiford, who referred to himself as the Hand of Death, bludgeoned Andrew Whyte Murray to death with rocks as the 56-year-old slept rough in a Tweed Heads park on November 22, 2019.

Dramatic vision of Pettifords arrest shows detectives boarding a Sydney-bound bus on November 26, 2019, regarding an interstate arrest warrant. That night, Pettiford confessed to killing Murray, telling police he operated by code and targeted men he thought wouldnt be missed.

A jury in December rejected the 38-year-olds defence of mental health impairment and found him criminally responsible for the murder of Murray, and also the attempted murder of inmate Nathan Mellows five weeks later inside Shortland Correctional Centre at Cessnock. Pettiford slashed Mellows throat with a weapon made of wire twist ties and razor blades.
Inside the Newington College old boys meeting on Wednesday night. Credit: SMH Almost 1000 former students, including recent graduates and alumni who left the Stanmore school more than 60 years ago, filed into the Wesley Conference Centre in Sydneys CBD on Wednesday night, many wearing badges on their shirts and jackets that read Save Newington. The ONU executive was forced to delay the meeting by more than an hour  and rushed to print hundreds of extra ballot forms  to cater for an unexpectedly high turnout. Five resolutions were put forward to members, and all narrowly passed. A resolution asking members to vote on whether the move to co-education should be reversed was passed 51.3 per cent in favour. The meeting went ahead despite an eleventh-hour bid to have the resolutions changed after the ONU executive said they had received advice from senior counsel that the proposed resolutions were invalid.

In an email to members earlier in the week, the ONU executive told its members a no-confidence vote in the old boys union board would be presented as a plebiscite rather than a formal resolution. However, about an hour into the meeting, the executive agreed that all five original resolutions could be voted on. More than 440 proxy votes were submitted, while the delayed start to the meeting meant vote counting ran overnight. A third party, Link Market Services, was engaged to count and verify votes. Some former students, including former Fortescue Metals Group executive Peter Thomas, travelled from interstate to vote in person. A small fracas erupted just after 9pm as organisers told dozens still queuing that they needed to register their ballot before entering the conference centres auditorium, where the meeting had already started.

Do not open the meeting until everyone here can get inside, one man told meeting organisers. After the small confrontation, the man was told to settle down while an organiser warned him he would be asked to leave. Parents and former Newington College students protested outside the Stanmore campus on January 31 following an announcement in November that the school would become co-ed. Credit: Kate Geraghty In a letter to parents last month, Newingtons council chairman Tony McDonald said a discrete group of alumni was trying to undermine the college by trying to pass votes of no confidence in the school. In a separate email to ex-pupils, a group of 20 former Newington students who now work at the school said that the motions symbolised a direct threat to the ONUs philosophy around inclusion, respect and positive relationship-building within the community. The protests, the intensification of media scrutiny, the public challenging of our headmaster, council and the projected coup of the ONU are all forces that undermine staff, affecting the colleges reputation, the email said.

Dallas Morgan, a representative of the Save Newington Group, a coalition of parents and alumni lobbying the school to have co-ed reversed, said many alumni were opposed to the schools decision. A Newington College student walks past signs protesting against the schools plan to become co-ed by 2033. Credit: Kate Geraghty They ran out of ballot papers and underestimated the turnout. We turned up at the meeting expecting a brawl and instead the ONU executive capitulated, and allowed all five resolutions to be voted on. They fought us tooth and nail on voting, and then at the last minute they surrendered, Morgan said. Many said they believed there was a lack of transparency about the process the schools council took before announcing the decision to go co-ed, and the reason for the change. One former student, who spoke anonymously to speak freely, said the schools co-ed consultation process was botched and misleading.

Many parents put their sons name down on the waitlist from the age of one or two, and they feel theyve been sold something they never agreed to. You cant just go and sign up to Joeys or Kings as they are full too, he said. There is also no pressure on girls schools to go co-ed. Loading The Save Newington group wrote to its members earlier this week, saying former students would not be silenced by last-minute and desperate attempts to avoid democratic voting on the resolutions. The group has nominated pharmacist John Venetoulis for the ONU president. In letter to alumni earlier this month, Pagnonis said the co-ed move had been the catalyst for the ONU receiving an unprecedented level of additional feedback. A survey conducted by the old boys union last year found more than half of respondents were opposed or undecided about co-ed.

Despite what any faction might advise, the perspectives on moving to co-education in our community are mixed and balanced, Pagonis said. There is now a group who are very openly wanting to take control of the ONU for the sole purpose of weaponising our ONU against the college. They have proposed resolutions which are intended only to divide and destabilise. A separate legal challenge is also under way, with some parents arguing the co-ed move is contrary to the schools trust, which was established in 1873. Rob, a Newington graduate from 1967 who did not provide his surname, said he was planning to vote against the motions, and favoured co-education. There is a core group who are dead against it, but it does reflect the world we live in, and my children enjoyed going to co-ed schools.
Australian-born Hollywood star Rebel Wilson has delayed the publication of her memoir, amid tensions with former co-star Sacha Baron Cohen over claims expected to be made in the book.

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The autobiography, Rebel Rising, was slated for publication on April 3, followed by a promotional tour in May with events scheduled for Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.

But the books publisher, HarperCollins, said on Wednesday that the books publication and review copies would not be made available as planned.

On March 16, Wilson posted a reel to Instagram promoting the book. She mentioned that chapter 23 explored Baron Cohens behaviour towards her, though at that point he had not yet been identified.
Premier Roger Cook has formally opened a home base where Team WA comes first in Canberra. WA Hub  dubbed the WA Embassy by the state opposition  will provide office space and meeting rooms less than a kilometre from Parliament House for use by state government representatives, WA businesses, peak bodies, unions, and not-for-profits. Cook for the first time detailed his governments new Canberra strategy, which listed WAs decarbonisation plan, clean energy infrastructure, defence industry, and the GST deal among its priorities. The new office on Brisbane Avenue cost $150,000 to set up and will cost $100,000 a year to run.

Speaking at the hubs official opening, Cook said he wanted WAs voice to be heard loud and clear in Canberra. Loading Perth is as close to Jakarta as it is the nations capital, so we must work hard to ensure the states interests are at the forefront of the national agenda, and demonstrate how much WA can offer the nation, he said. WA is the powerhouse of the Australian economy, but its size and diversity present unique opportunities and challenges that are exacerbated by our distance from Canberra. This important work will be made easier by our new Canberra Hub, a functional space that will serve as a home base for WA in the nations capital.
A three-year medicine ownership mega-battle which pitted Western Australias health department against leading Perth scientist Dr Marian Sturm has come to an end after the parties inked a top-secret peace deal.

The East Metropolitan Health Service and Sturms company Isopogen confirmed they had reached a mutually acceptable, confidential settlement this week.

Dr Marian Sturm and the state-run health service have settled their three-year long feud. Credit: WAtoday

Both parties refused to be drawn on the contents of the agreement, but a joint statement confirmed the deal provided a comprehensive framework for an ongoing relationship.

The state-run health service and Isopogen insisted the peace treaty secured important benefits stemming from an innovative cell therapy utilising various patents invented by Sturm during her lengthy stint at Royal Perth Hospital.
What is happening in Alice Springs?



Violent brawls took place on Tuesday after a group of young people attacked a local pub, the Todd Tavern. Three people have been arrested so far.

According to police, the violence began when a large group of people from the Utopia district north of Alice Springs arrived in town to commemorate the death of an 18-year-old man who was killed on March 8 when the stolen car he was travelling in rolled over.

The group attacked other family members in the pub, which sustained $30,000 of damage after being pelted with rocks and bricks. Another brawl broke out nearby later that evening.
The minute the Australian Bureau of Statistics released its latest report on population growth last week, the usual offenders got worked up, hand-wringing over immigrants and claiming Australia is full.

The report recorded an addition of 659,800 people, four-fifths of which were due to net overseas migration. In percentage terms, it was the biggest one year increase since Robert Menzies was prime minister in 1952.

There has been a surge in the number of deaths over the past four years, while births are falling. This is Australias demographic destiny. Credit: Peter Rae

But what those decrying the report ignored is the homegrown demographic trouble facing this nation. Australians are dying at record levels while the number of babies being born is sliding down a cliff.

Population growth is determined by three elements: immigration, births and deaths. The difference between births and deaths is called the natural increase (or decrease). The ABS figures, which showed a surge in net overseas migration, also revealed a further collapse in the natural increase. Over the 12-month period within the report, Australias natural population increase was 111,000. For the same period between September 2018-19 the natural increase was 139,000. Thats a 20 per cent drop driven by a 3 per cent fall in births and an 11.3 per cent increase in deaths in just four years. If you go back to 2013, the fall in the natural increase is roughly a third.
A humiliating defeat of the Albanese governments latest deportation laws in the Senate has forced Labor into a stand-off with the Coalition over border protection weeks away from a High Court challenge that could trigger the release of dozens more immigration detainees.

Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil was twice on Wednesday pursued by cameras in federal parliament after repeatedly ducking questions about why she wanted to rush through sweeping new powers to jail detainees fighting deportation and block foreign visitors from countries that will not take citizens back.

Earlier, the Coalition united with the Greens and other crossbenchers, including One Nation senator Pauline Hanson and the United Australia Partys Ralph Babet, to defer the bill introduced to the House on Tuesday to a Senate inquiry, defeating Labors attempt to ram it through in less than two days. The inquiry is due to report back on May 7, one week before the federal budget.

Peter Dutton and the Liberals could be voting to protect Australians today. They could be taking a big step in keeping the community safe, but instead, theyve chosen not to, ONeil said alongside Immigration Minister Andrew Giles during a heated press conference.
Newly elected MP George Galloway has accused the UK of being involved in last weeks Moscow terror attack in comments seized upon by a Kremlin-linked newspaper.

The Rochdale MP accused the US and the UK of lying about the involvement of Isis in the attack, which killed at least 139 people and injured around 360, on his talk show on YouTube.

In the month after his return to parliament, described as a dark day for Britains Jewish community, Mr Galloway espoused conspiracy theories about the Princess of Wales being dead and likened Israel to Nazi Germany.

MPs criticised his latest intervention as irresponsible, reckless and playing into the Kremlins hands. The foreign secretary, David Cameron, also described claims that the West and Ukraine were involved in the Crocus City Hall attack as utter nonsense in a post on Twitter/X.

In a recent episode of his YouTube chat show, Mr Galloway said: When the US, UK and others quickly tried to assure me that it was only Isis (banned in the Russian Federation) that committed this massacre in Moscow, I automatically realised that they were lying.

Galloways claims were condemned as reckless and irresponsible (YouTube)

And this is what I discovered: first of all, no one has explained the unannounced visit of former president Barack Obama to meet British politicians and security officials in Downing Street three days before this terrorist crime was committed.

Researching even further, I discovered that Victoria Nuland [former senior US diplomat], this harbinger of death, this angel of death, who, if she approaches you, you can be sure that civil war is coming in your country. And she promised the Russians some unpleasant surprises in the coming weeks and months.

The comments were quickly picked up by Rossiyskaya Gazeta, a newspaper published by the Russian government, which cited him as an expert discussing the attack.

Mr Galloway said he had four pieces of evidence that lead me to believe that the United States, its Nato allies, and their puppet stump state Ukraine are, in fact, responsible for this massacre.

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Mr Galloway told The Independent he had never heard of the Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

The new MPs reported comments align with Russian president Vladimir Putins spurious claims that Ukraine is somehow responsible for the attack, despite there being no evidence to suggest this.

Western analysts have warned that Putin has a history of using terrorist attacks to justify wars of aggression, and is likely planning to do the same for the latest Moscow incident.

The remarks prompted a series of criticism from MPs.

Tobias Ellwood, the former chair of parliaments defence committee, said the claims were irresponsible and reckless: Whilst his words will be quickly dismissed as a typically far-fetched, factually incorrect rant, Moscow will exploit this to spin its own domestic narrative that Nato is to blame.

Galloways words are not only irresponsible but reckless.

Conservative Bob Seely, who sits on the foreign affairs committee, said he completely disagreed with Mr Galloways claims. He added: There is absolutely no evidence that the US or the UK or Ukraine or Nato were in any way responsible, and sadly this sort of wild speculation plays into the hands of the Kremlin and will be used to support this absolute fiction of a claim.

Senior Tory MP Henry Smith added that it was outrageous for a British MP to wave the flag for Russia by claiming this was a Nato act.

On Tuesday night, Mr Galloway replied directly to Lord Camerons statement on Twitter/X describing claims of British involvement in the attack as utter nonsense by writing: Of course you do.

Barack Obama visited the prime minister in No 10 for around an hour (PA)

Despite trying to pin the blame on Ukraine, two days after the attack Mr Putin admitted that radical Islamist terrorists were responsible for the killings, but added: Now we want to know who ordered it.

In the article including Mr Galloways claims were quotes from Nikolai Patrushev, the secretary of Russias security council, and Federal Security Service (FSB) director Alexander Bortnikov, attempting to link Ukraine to the attack. Mr Bortnikov has gone as far as making the bizarre claim that the US and UK were behind the attack alongside Ukraine.

The article led with a response from Mr Patrushev to a question of whether Isis or Ukraine was responsible for the Moscow attack. Of course, Ukraine, said Mr Patrushev, without providing evidence. The article then runs quotes from FSB director Mr Bortnikov claiming that Ukrainian special services had been training terrorists in the Middle East  again, without providing evidence.

A top advisor to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky later accused both Mr Patrushev and Mr Bortnikov of officially spreading lies.

Terror group Isis has claimed responsibility for the attack on the Crocus City Hall last Friday, and the US, UK, Ukraine and several other Western nations have corroborated this claim.

Russian officials have accused Ukraine and the West of being involved in the deadly Moscow concert hall attack (POOL/AFP via Getty)

Multiple counterintelligence analysts have also told The Independent that the attack bore all the hallmarks of Isis Khorasan, an offshoot of the terrorist group with a heavy presence in Tajikistan, which is also the nationality of all four of the suspected gunmen.

Mr Galloway was controversially returned to parliament this month after winning the Rochdale by-election, in which Labour was forced to drop its own candidate. After the contest, the Board of Deputies of British Jews condemned Mr Galloways win as a dark day for the UKs Jewish community, while Rishi Sunak warned democracy is under attack from far-right and Islamist extremists.

The prime minister said it was beyond alarming voters had backed a candidate who dismisses the horror of what happened on October 7, when Hamas murdered 1,200 people in Israel.

Mr Galloway was a Labour MP until being expelled in 2003 for his opposition to the invasion of Iraq. His independent campaign in Rochdale was heavily focused on the war in Gaza, where Israel has undertaken a near-six month bombardment and blockade with the aim of eradicating Hamas following a terror attack inside Israel during which around 1,200 people were killed and another 250 taken hostage.

At least 32,000 Palestinians have died in the Israeli assault that has followed, according to health officials in the Hamas-run territory.

Painting the Rochdale by-election as an opportunity to send a message of support to those inside Gaza, after winning the contest Mr Galloway declared: Keir Starmer, this is for Gaza.

But since being elected Mr Galloway has been absent from multiple Commons debates about the conflict. He has long been a critic of Nato and called for Britain to withdraw from the military alliance.

He has also repeatedly been accused of spreading conspiracy theories, including recently speculating that the Princess of Wales was dead and that the April 2022 Russian massacre of civilians in Bucha, just north of Kyiv, was likely staged.

A couple of months after Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Mr Galloway threatened to sue Twitter/X after the social network labelled his account Russian state-affiliated media.

Mr Galloway, whose radio programme The Mother of All Talk Shows was broadcast on the Russian state-owned Sputnik service during the first months of the invasion, said he would sue Twitter/X for defamation unless it rescinds the label.

I work for NO Russian media. I have 400,000 followers. Im the leader of a British political party and spent nearly 30 years in the British parliament, he tweeted at the time.
Peshawar: The Chinese embassy in Pakistan has told Chinese citizens in the country to strengthen their security and stay informed after a suicide bomber rammed a vehicle into a convoy of Chinese engineers working on a dam project in north-west Pakistan, killing six people.

It was the third major attack on Chinese interests in the South Asian country in a week.

The first two attacks targeted a Pakistan naval air base and a strategic port used by China in the south-west province of Balochistan, where Beijing is investing billions in infrastructure projects.

The engineers were en route from Islamabad to their camp at the dam construction site in Dasu in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday when they were hit, regional police chief Mohammad Ali Gandapur said.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The foundation Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) has completed field surveys and training for the terrestrial baseline biodiversity assessment as part of the Coastal Resilience and Needs Assessments (CORENA) project. The objective is to provide information to guide the sustainable management of various habitats in Sint Maarten.

For 12 days, ecologists Mark Yokoyama, a resident of St. Martin, and Kevel Lindsay from Antigua assessed biodiversity in crucial spots of Sint Maarten. Biodiversity is the diversity of species found in an area, an indicator of the excellent health of ecosystems. Plants, insects, mammals, birds, and amphibians were assessed as part of this study. From sunrise to dusk, and with a couple of nighttime explorations, the team conducted an extensive review of plant and animal species found, documenting and taking photographs.

Over 300 species were observed. Mark Yokoyama notes: Sint Maarten offers a diversity of species, most unknown to the general public, from the smallest insect to larger birds such as Ospreys. We were surprised by the diversity of plants, insects, birds, and animals at almost every site we visited. Most areas that the development has fragmented had pockets of wildlife, including native species such as the yellow sage (Lantana camara) plant and the St. Martin anole (Anolis bogus) lizard.

Two hands-on training sessions were held for The Nature Foundation staff, including tips on identifying plant species and invertebrates and learning field research methods. A total of seven persons received training. Sabrine Brismeur, Coordinator for the CORENA project at the Nature Foundation, was pleased by both training sessions: Our staff learned a lot and will be more comfortable in doing future terrestrial assessments to monitor species numbers and the state of their habitat in Sint Maarten.

Two maps will be produced to show key biodiversity hotspots and recommended areas to protect from human development, further guiding political decisions about sustainable development on Sint Maarten. Based on observations during this assessment, it is clear that bats in Sint Maarten, in particular, are at risk of human impact, and their habitat should remain free of disturbances. Bats play a key role in ecosystems, helping to pollinate plants, disperse seeds, and keep pests in control, such as mosquitos and other insects affecting crops.

The final terrestrial assessment will be completed by April and made available to the public after that time.

The CORENA project was initiated by the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure (VROMI) and is being executed in partnership with the Nature Foundation. The CORENA project is funded by the European Union through the regional RESEMBID grant program, implemented by Expertise France in 12 overseas countries and territories in the Caribbean.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The House of Parliament will sit in a public meeting on March 27, 2024.

The Public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday at 10.00 hrs. in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg. The Council of Ministers will be in attendance.

The agenda points are:

1. Incoming documents

2. Ontwerplandsverordening tot vaststelling van de Begroting van het land Sint Maarten voor het dienstjaar 2024 (Landsverordening begroting 2024) (Zittingsjaar 2023-2024-175) (IS/487/2023-2024 dated March 7, 2024)

(Draft National Ordinance stipulating the Budget for Country Sint Maarten for the service year 2024 (National Ordinance Budget 2024) (Parliamentary Year 2023-2024-175)) (IS/487/2023-2024 dated March 7, 2024)

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

All persons visiting the House of Parliament must adhere to the house rules.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House in Philipsburg.

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, Soualiga Headlines, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.sxmparliament.org, www.pearlfmradio.sx and www.youtube.com/c/SintMaartenParliament
KRALENDIJK:--- Collaboration within the border protection and immigration chain in the Caribbean Netherlands has improved since 2017, partly due to the appointment of the chain coordinator in 2021. This is concluded by the Council for Law Enforcement (the Council) in a recent report examining the implementation of recommendations from the reports "Foreign Nationals Policy" (2017) and "Tackling Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling" (2019) in recent years. The report indicates that, although collaboration has improved, the approach to human trafficking and migrant smuggling still falls short in some areas: only one of the eight recommendations from 2019 has been followed.

New Recommendations

The Council now makes eight new recommendations to the Dutch Minister of Justice and Security (JenV). These include the critically necessary improvement of the theme register and the improvement of steering by JenV and the Caribbean Netherlands Police Force (KPCN). The Council has requested the Minister of JenV to prepare a report six months after the publication of the inspection report on the concrete status of the (progress in the) implementation of the new recommendations.

Theme Register for Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling

In a theme register for human trafficking and migrant smuggling, signals from chain partners can be brought together and analyzed. The goal is to generate visibility on the nature and extent of human trafficking and migrant smuggling on Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. The KPCN is responsible for managing the register, but as in 2019, it still does not function well.

Regarding the KPCN, the Council identifies two bottlenecks. Firstly, registration discipline continues to be a persistent major concern. Secondly, there is still a lack of internal awareness within the police, resulting in signals of human trafficking and migrant smuggling not being recognized and therefore not registered. (Potential) victims of these serious crimes are therefore insufficiently identified. The Council considers this a risk.

The evaluations promised by the minister regarding the results of theme processing have not been conducted by the KPCN with the relevant chain partners. Steering on this by both the police leadership and the Ministry of JenV is lacking.

Lack of Steering

The Council concludes that there is also a lack of necessary steering by the Ministry of JenV and the KPCN on the implementation of recommendations stemming from previous reports. It is important that the Ministry of JenV and the executing organizations henceforth more explicitly steer towards concrete results. Deficient steering appears to be a recurring and persistent bottleneck in the Council's investigations.

Equipment of Royal Marechaussee (KMar) in the Caribbean Netherlands a bottleneck

The Royal Marechaussee (KMar) indicates to have insufficient capacity to carry out its legal tasks in the field of border control and immigration control on Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. Financial resources to realize the expansion supported by the KMar in the Caribbean Netherlands have been lacking to date.

However, the Council notes that the capacity of the KMar in Curacao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten has been expanded. In the Council's opinion, the claim for expansion of the KMar in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba should also be assigned with priority by the Minister of JenV.

The Council's inspection report is public and available on the Council's website: www.raadrechtshandhaving.com.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring developments in Haiti. The situation in the country continues to deteriorate. Especially in the capital, Port-au-Prince, the situation is very alarming.



The ministry strongly emphasizes the appeal to Dutch nationals and residents of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom in Haiti: register via the information service. This also applies to persons who have a permit of legal residence in the Netherlands or a valid permit for Aruba, Curacao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, St. Eustatius or Saba. If you have family or friends in Haiti who meet these requirements, please inform them to register. This way, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will know who is in the country and can keep you informed of developments and provide advice, for example, if they see opportunities to leave the country.



The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has contacted Dutch nationals by phone who have previously registered as staying in Haiti. This revealed that only a very limited number of Dutch nationals are currently in Haiti. The ministry has so far received no requests for help from Haiti.



The travel advicewhich has long advised people not to travel to Haiti and to leave the countryhas been updated.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands does not have an embassy in Haiti. Service to Haiti is provided by the embassy in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, with support from a Haitian Honorary Consul in Port-au-Prince.
The glass used to create beads discovered at a prehistoric settlement dubbed "Britain's Pompeii" was probably made in Iran, analysis has revealed.

The finds were among a wealth of well-preserved items unearthed at a burnt-out 3,000-year-old village at a quarry in Whittlesey, near Peterborough.

Amber, shale, siltstone, faience and tin beads were also discovered.

Prehistoric jewellery expert Alison Sheridan said their survival, at Must Farm, was "absolutely thrilling".

They reveal the "really cosmopolitan connections" of Must Farm's residents, according to Dr Sheridan.

"Some of the beads must have been got from northern Britain and possibly even Ireland, while the glass came from a very, very long way away across the sea," she said.

The remains of a settlement of about 10 circular wooden houses on stilts built above a river was discovered by the Cambridge Archaeological Unit between 2015 and 2016.

Believed to be home to 50 to 60 people, the cause of the fire that destroyed it in 850BC is unknown. The settlement and its contents were preserved because it fell into silt in the river.

This included "by far the largest find of glass beads from any Late Bronze Age context in Britain," according to Dr Sheridan and co-author Julian Henderson.

They contributed to the necklace and beads report as part of the post-excavation analysis published by the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research.

Prof Henderson, an expert in ancient technologies at Nottingham University, concluded the glass used to create 48 of the beads most probably came from Iran, while the glass from the 49th bead originated from Egypt.

A 23mm-long (0.9in) teardrop-shaped glass object, believed to be a by-product of glass-making, was also discovered and Prof Henderson and Dr Sheridan described it as "without parallel" from Bronze Age Britain.

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Dr Sheridan, who examined the non-glass beads, was "instantly struck by the amber bead because it was so fantastic that it survived at all, as normally amber will burn", she said.

The "slightly charred" find probably came from Scandinavia and may have been made into a bead in Ireland.

"But there is also the faience [glazed ceramic] bead, the only one known from this late Bronze Age period in Britain, while the tin bead is incredibly rare, as it doesn't usually survive, it tends to oxidise," she said.

The dig has drawn comparisons with the Roman city of Pompeii in southern Italy, which was buried under volcanic debris in AD79, because it provides an insight into Bronze Age life just as that era was ending.

Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and X. If you have a story suggestion email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk
California looks to Europe to rein in AI



San Francisco, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



California, home to Silicon Valley, is eager to rein in the deployment of artificial intelligence and is looking to Europe's tough-on-big-tech approach for inspiration.

The richest state in the United States by GDP, California is a hotbed of no-holds-barred tech innovation, but lawmakers in state capital Sacramento want to give the industry laws and guardrails it has largely been spared in the internet age.

Brussels has enacted a barrage of laws on US-dominated tech and sprinted to pass the AI Act after OpenAI's Microsoft-backed ChatGPT arrived on the scene in late 2022, unleashing a global AI race.

"What we're trying to do is actually learn from the Europeans, but also work with the Europeans, and figure out how to put regulations in place on AI," said David Harris, senior policy advisor at the California Initiative for Technology and Democracy.

As they have in the past with EU laws on private data, lawmakers in California are looking to recent European legislation on AI, especially given the little hope of equivalent national legislation out of Washington.

There are at least 30 different bills proposed by California state legislators that relate to various aspects of AI, according to Harris, who said he has advised officials here and in Europe on such laws.

Proposed laws in California range from requiring AI makers to reveal what was used to train models to banning election ads containing any computer generated features.

"One of the aspects I think is really important is the question of how we deal with deepfakes or fake text created to look like a human being is sending you messages," Harris told AFP.

State assembly member Gail Pellerin is backing a bill she says would essentially ban the spreading of deceptive digital content created with generative AI in the months leading up to and the weeks following an election.

"Bad actors who are utilizing this are really hoping to create chaos in an election," Pellerin said.



- Law-breaking 'bad guys' -



Industry association NetChoice is dead set against importing aspects of European legislation on AI, or any other EU tech regulation.

"They are taking, essentially, a European approach on artificial intelligence - which is that we must ban the technology," said Carl Szabo, the general counsel of the association, which advocates for light touch regulation of tech.

"Outlawing AI won't stop (anything). It's bad because bad guys don't follow the law," Szabo argued.

"That's what makes them bad guys."

US computer software giant Adobe, like most tech giants, worked with Europe on the AI Act, according to Adobe General Counsel and Chief Trust Officer Dana Rao.

At the heart of the EU AI Act is a risk-based approach, with AI practices deemed more risky getting more scrutiny.

"We feel good about where the AI Act ended up" with its high-risk, low-risk approach, said Rao.

Already, Adobe engineers carry out "impact assessments" to rate risk before making AI products available, according to Rao.

"You want to think about nuclear safety, about cybersecurity, about when AI is making substantial decisions over human rights," Rao said.



- 'Watching California' -



In California, Rao said he expected the problem of deepfakes to be the first to fall under the authority of a new law.

Assembly Bill 602 would criminalize non-consensual deepfake pornography while Assembly Bill 730 bans the use of AI deepfakes during election campaign season.

To fight this, Adobe joined other companies to create "content credentials" that Rao equated to a "nutrition label" for digital content.

Assemblywoman Pellerin expects AI laws adopted in California to be replicated in other states.

"People are watching California," Pellerin said, with a slew of US states also working on their own AI deepfake bills.

"We're all in this together; we have to stay ahead of the folks that are trying to wreak havoc in an election," she said.
Japan to unveil next-generation passenger plane project



Tokyo, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



Japan is expected to announce plans to develop a next-generation passenger jet following a government committee meeting on Wednesday, a year after the last struggling attempt was scrapped.

The public-private project, which could use hydrogen fuel in a bid to cut emissions, will cost around five trillion yen ($33 billion), Japanese media reported, citing unnamed sources.

An official announcement is expected later on Wednesday after a closed-door meeting of politicians, experts and businesspeople to discuss a new aviation industry strategy.

"For the Japanese aircraft industry to achieve sustainable growth, we cannot stay satisfied with our position as a parts supplier," Kazuchika Iwata, state minister for economy, trade and industry, told the committee in comments open to press at the start of the meeting.

"In the new business fields of carbon-neutral technologies, including hydrogen, we aim to take a leading position" and partner with global players to develop a narrow-body plane, he said.

The goal is for the plane to be ready by 2035, the Nikkei business daily and other Japanese media reported.

The fresh push to build the nation's first homemade airliner in more than half a century comes after Mitsubishi Heavy Industries abandoned a much-hyped attempt in February 2023.

The troubled project to develop a twin-engine plane for short-to-medium haul flights was ditched 10 years after the jet was due for commercial rollout, having suffered technical glitches and repeated delivery delays.

China showed off its first domestically produced passenger jet in Singapore last month, aiming to challenge the dominance of Airbus and Boeing with its single-aisle model.

Japan last launched a commercial airliner in 1962 -- the YS-11 turboprop that was discontinued about a decade later.

Hydrogen fuel does not emit carbon dioxide when burned, making it an exciting prospect for Japan which is targeting carbon neutrality by 2050.

But environment campaigners are sceptical about its use without a reliable supply chain for so-called "green" hydrogen, produced from renewable energy sources.

Other types of hydrogen fuel include "grey" hydrogen, made using greenhouse gas-emitting coal, petrol or gas, and "blue" hydrogen, which also comes from fossil fuels but with the carbon emissions captured and stored.

tmo-hih/kaf/mtp

MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES

Airbus Group
Japan unveils next-generation passenger plane project



Tokyo, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



Japan announced plans on Wednesday to develop a next-generation passenger jet over the next decade after the last struggling attempt, led by a private company, was scrapped a year ago.

The new public-private project aims to use "new environmental technologies" such as hydrogen or hybrid electrics, a statement from the ministry of economy, trade and industry said.

"It is important for us to build next-generation aircraft based on technologies where Japan is competitive, while also contributing to the decarbonation of air transport," the statement said.

The new plane will be ready after 2035, an economy ministry official said after a closed-door meeting of politicians, experts and businesspeople to discuss Japan's aviation industry strategy.

Over the next 10 years, investment totalling five trillion yen ($33 billion) is needed in the industry including for the development of the new passenger plane, the official said.

The fresh push to build the nation's first homemade airliner in more than half a century comes after Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) abandoned a much-anticipated attempt in February 2023.

The troubled project to develop a twin-engine plane for short-to-medium haul flights was ditched 10 years after the jet was due for commercial rollout, having suffered technical glitches and repeated delivery delays.

"For the Japanese aircraft industry to achieve sustainable growth, we cannot stay satisfied with our position as a parts supplier," Kazuchika Iwata, state minister for economy, trade and industry, told the committee in comments open to press at the start of Wednesday's meeting.

"In the new business fields of carbon-neutral technologies, including hydrogen, we aim to take a leading position" and partner with global players to develop a narrow-body plane, he said.

China showed off its first domestically produced passenger jet in Singapore last month, aiming to challenge the dominance of Airbus and Boeing with its single-aisle model.

Japan last launched a commercial airliner in 1962 -- the YS-11 turboprop that was discontinued about a decade later.

Hydrogen fuel does not emit carbon dioxide when burned, making it an exciting prospect for Japan which is targeting carbon neutrality by 2050.

But environmental campaigners are sceptical about its use without a reliable supply chain for so-called "green" hydrogen, produced from renewable energy sources.

"Nothing concrete has been decided yet, but possibilities include hybrid electrics, hydrogen combustion, hydrogen FC -- these are possible next-generation technologies we're looking at and aiming to deepen our research of" in developing the new aircraft, the economy ministry official told AFP.

Edward Bourlet, an analyst at CLSA in Japan covering MHI, told AFP that Mitsubishi Heavy's jet was a "massive cost burden" and "a nightmare project".

Developing the plane in a consortium can spread risks but can also make such a project harder to coordinate, he said.

"The main issue here will probably be the hydrogen side of things if that's what they're going for," he said.

"Conceptually, it's a great idea," and "if anyone's going to develop a hydrogen aircraft then I suppose Japan is well positioned to do so," Bourlet added.

But "the benefits of such and the costs associated with developing that sounds a bit precarious to me".

tmo-hih/kaf/dhw

MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES

Airbus Group
US flags data gap as banks deploy AI in fraud prevention



Washington, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



The US financial sector faces a "significant" data gap between big and small banks as they deploy AI to fight fraud, the Treasury Department said Wednesday, noting that smaller institutions are disadvantaged.

While big banks have more internal data to develop AI models to prevent fraud, this is not the case for smaller ones, the Treasury said.

There is a need to narrow this divide, the Treasury said, pointing out there is "insufficient data sharing among firms."

The latest recommendations and report come after President Joe Biden unveiled an executive order in October on regulating AI, with the Treasury now taking steps to identify risks and challenges.

The order directed federal agencies to set new safety standards for AI systems, while requiring developers to share their safety test results and other critical information with the US government.

"Artificial intelligence is redefining cybersecurity and fraud in the financial services sector," said Nellie Liang, Treasury under secretary for domestic finance.

Liang added that the Treasury's report sets out a vision for how financial institutions can "safely map out their business lines and disrupt rapidly evolving AI-driven fraud."

The report said cybersecurity information sharing had matured but "little progress has been made to enhance data sharing related to fraud."

It said the US government could help contribute to a "data lake of fraud data" that would be available to train AI.

The department also called for "labels" allowing the sector to clearly identify what data was used to train models for vendor-provided AI systems and where they originated.

Other steps the Treasury identified included "explainability solutions" for advanced machine learning models, and more consistency in defining what artificial intelligence is.
A Royal Navy aircraft carrier returns to her home port of Portsmouth (Andrew Matthews/PA Wire)

A group of Royal Navy sailors have been arrested on suspicion of stealing iPads, video games and laptops to order before selling them.

The seven sailors were led away from their ship the HMS Middleton in handcuffs after being accused of raiding a duty-free electronics store on a US military base in Bahrain.

The group, which includes a chef and a communications officer, allegedly used security alarm-proof bags to snatch the items.

A source told The Sun: Some were arrested by American armed military police when they were caught taking items out of the American shops on the base.

Military police took the rest of the lads off the ship in cuffs.

They added: It looked like they stole anything that wasnt locked down  iPads, laptops, computer games.

A Royal Navy spokesperson told The Independent: We can confirm an alleged incident is under investigation.

As this is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further nor provide a timeline to when a conclusion can be provided.
Xi tells Dutch PM Rutte 'no force can stop' China tech progress



Beijing, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Wednesday told Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte that China's technological progress could not be held back, as they met in Beijing for talks on subjects including the crucial semiconductor industry.

Dutch chip-making machine supplier ASML is one of the world's leading manufacturers of equipment to make state-of-the-art semiconductors, used in everything from mobile phones to cars.

The sector has become a key battleground in recent years, with the United States and some European countries blocking exports of high-tech chip technology to China over fears of military use.

ASML announced this year that it had been blocked from exporting "a small number" of its advanced machines to China, amid reports of US pressure on the Dutch government.

"The Chinese people also have legitimate development rights, and no force can stop the pace of China's scientific and technological progress," Xi told Rutte on Wednesday according to state news agency Xinhua.

Xi added that "China will continue to pursue a win-win approach (and) open wider to the outside world at a high level".

"There is no way out for 'decoupling and breaking the chain,' and opening-up and cooperation are the only choice," Xinhua quoted him as saying.

Rutte told reporters at a press conference that he couldn't share details of what had been discussed around semiconductors.

"What I can tell you about our semiconductor sector and companies like ASML is that when we have to take measures that they are never aimed at one country specifically," he said.

"We always try to make sure that the impact is limited, it's not impacting the supply chain and therefore is not impacting, let's say, the overall economic relationship."

In January, ASML reported soaring profits for 2023, despite the growing threat of trade controls hampering its ability to operate in key overseas markets.

Meanwhile, there have also been concerns about Beijing's imposing of export controls on gallium and germanium -- two rare earth metals critical for the manufacture of semiconductors.

ASML has previously shrugged off the financial impact of the geopolitical headwinds, with top officials saying the firm is well-placed to weather the storm.

Rutte's comments came at the close of a two-day visit to Beijing, where he and Dutch Trade Minister Geoffrey van Leeuwen held talks with top Chinese leaders and visited with representatives from the European business community.

A readout provided by the Dutch government ahead of the visit said that key topics would include equal market access, opportunities for economic cooperation and the ongoing situations in Ukraine and the Middle East.

The Dutch prime minister -- regarded as a likely candidate for the next secretary-general of NATO -- said Wednesday that the Western military alliance did not come up in his discussions with Chinese leaders.

But on the war in Ukraine, Rutte said he urged China to use its influence with Russia to bring about peace.

Beijing, which has not condemned Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, has deepened its ties with Moscow in recent years, to the dismay of many European leaders.

"What I particularly tried to do today... in my conversations with (President Xi and Premier Li Qiang) is make clear that this is a direct security issue for us, because if Russia will be successful in Ukraine it will be a threat to the whole of Europe," said Rutte.

"It will make Russia more powerful, which is, by the way, also not in the interests of China.

"I also asked them to put their considerable weight... on Russia to influence the course of events," he added.
Myanmar army behind Facebook pages spewing hate speech: UN probe



Geneva, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



Myanmar's military was behind dozens of seemingly unrelated Facebook pages spewing hate speech against the Rohingya prior to its dramatic 2017 crackdown against the mostly Muslim minority, a UN probe found Wednesday.

Facebook has long been accused of helping spread vast amounts of hate speech against the Rohingya before hundreds of thousands of them were driven into neighbouring Bangladesh in a crackdown now subject to a UN genocide investigation.

In late 2021, Rohingya refugees sued Facebook for $150 billion, claiming the social network failed to stem the hate speech directed against them.

Now, the United Nations' Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) says there is clear evidence that Myanmar's military secretly orchestrated the hate speech campaign.

The military had in a "systematic and coordinated" manner "spread material designed to instil fear and hatred of the Rohingya minority", the investigators said in a fresh report.

"It accomplished this by creating a clandestine network of pages on a social media site with the potential to reach an audience of millions."

The IIMM was established by the UN Human Rights Council in 2018 to collect evidence of the most serious international crimes and prepare files for criminal prosecution.

Its new analysis looked at content posted on 43 Facebook pages between July and December 2017.

That report found the seemingly unrelated pages, most of them with no outward affiliation to the military and including some devoted to celebrity news and popular culture, "were part of a network with clear ties to the Myanmar military".

The report identified 10,485 items with hate speech on the pages, and which Facebook removed from its platform in August 2018.

The "hate speech content often played upon prevalent discriminatory and derogatory narratives concerning the Rohinguya, ranging from the narrative that the Rohingya pose an existential threat to Myanmar through violence, terrorism or 'Islamisation'," it said.

Some of the hate speech also played "to the narrative that they pose a threat to Burmese racial purity through their alleged rampant breeding".

The connections between the pages were seen in various ways, including that they often shared creators, administrators, and editors, and regularly posted material using the same IP addresses used by the Myanmar military.

"Identical material was often posted on multiple pages in this network, sometimes within minutes," the IIMM said.
Sweden Koran burner says he is leaving for Norway



Stockholm, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



An Iraqi refugee in Sweden who stoked international outrage by repeatedly desecrating the Koran last year said Wednesday he was leaving the country for neighbouring Norway after Sweden revoked his residency permit.

Salwan Momika, a Christian Iraqi who burned Korans at a slew of protests in Sweden over the summer, told AFP that he had left Sweden and arrived in Norway, where he planned to seek asylum.

"I left Sweden because of the persecution I was subjected to by government institutions," Momika said in a text message.

Momika's Koran burnings sparked widespread outrage and condemnation in Muslim countries.

Iraqi protesters stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad twice in July, starting fires within the compound on the second occasion.

The Swedish government condemned the desecrations of the Koran but stressed the country's laws regarding freedom of speech and assembly.

Sweden's intelligence agency heightened its terror alert level in mid-August to four on a scale of five after the angry reactions made the country a "prioritised target".

The Swedish Migration Agency revoked Momika's residency permit in October, citing false information in his original application, but he was granted a temporary one as it said there were was an "impediment to enforcement" of a deportation to Iraq.

The month before, Iraq had requested his extradition over one of the Koran burnings.

"Sweden has become a threat to me after the decision to expel me and the threat to extradite me to Iraq," Momika said.

Momika called Sweden's freedom of expression and protection of human rights "a big lie."
Warsaw recalls Eurocorps commander amid intelligence probe



Warsaw, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



Poland's defence ministry on Wednesday said it had recalled the Polish commander of the Eurocorps force, an intergovernmental European military body, and announced it was investigating the army general.

The ministry said military intelligence had opened a probe "regarding the personal security clearance" of Lieutenant General Jaroslaw Gromadzinski.

"Therefore, a decision was made to dismiss Lt. Gen. Gromadzinski from his position as commander of the Eurocorps," the ministry said in a statement, adding it ordered his "immediate" return to Poland.

Eurocorps, a military body tasked with leading and coordinating multinational operations, was set up at the initiative of France and Germany in 1992, with Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg and Poland joining since.

Gromadzinski assumed the two-year rotating command of the Strasbourg-headquartered Eurocorps in June 2023.

The Polish defence ministry did not provide details on Gromadzinski's case, but said the decision was made after military intelligence obtained "new information" regarding him.

It added that "another officer will be immediately appointed to the position" held by Gromadzinski to ensure the continuity of the functioning of the Eurocorps command.

Before becoming commander of the Eurocorps, Gromadzinski was notably an adviser to the chief of general staff of the Polish army.

In recent months, he served as part of the international assistance team for Ukraine in Wiesbaden, Germany where, alongside US service members, he was responsible for training Ukrainian soldiers.
By Zhao Li

(ECNS) -- The Chinese path to modernization represents a valid model to address the main challenges facing humanity such as sustainable development, the search for peace, and the fight against inequality and poverty, said Javier Garcia, journalism professor at Renmin University of China and former director of Agencia EFE in China.

Garcia made the remarks in Wuyishan, Fujian Province while attending the First Wuyi Forum, hosted by Renmin University of China. At a parallel forum, he made a speech titled A New Model for Human Progress.

Javier Garcia Photo: China News Network/ Zhao Li

He spoke highly of the Chinese path to modernization. There are three fundamental aspects of the Chinese model that I consider crucial: the construction of an ecological civilization, the peaceful development, and the pragmatic approach, he said.

He pointed out that the shift in Chinas ecological awareness and the priority given to the environment and sustainable development in its policies in recent years has been radical.

China is building a green civilization and has emerged as a major driver of the global energy transition. It is a world leader in renewable energy, electric vehicles, reforestation, and innovative ecological projects such as the sponge cities, he said.

Talking about Chinas peaceful development path, Javier said it is influenced by ancient Chinese culture.

China has a very strong culture which goes back about thousands of years ago. This is very important even now for China. For instance, its peaceful development has a lot to do with ancient figures and philosophers like Confucius or Laozi and even Buddhism in China, he said in an interview with China News Network.

Noting Chinas basic principles in international relations like respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, no aggression and peaceful coexistence, Garcia believes they are very important for the world and said China is a very good example.

As a seasoned media professional, Garcia also criticized some Western medias distorted reporting on China. There is a clear campaign to denigrate the image of China. Whether China does good things or not, some Western media have always described the bad side, even the very good things that China does, like it has already alleviated the extreme poverty and the ecological policies of China, he said. In this regard, he believes the report on China should be objective.








Fisker announced a round of drastic price cuts in a bid to offload its inventory of unsold 2023-model-year cars and hoist itself out of dire financial straits. The only model in its range, an electric crossover called Ocean, will cost up to $24,000 less beginning on March 29, 2024.

The company offers three Ocean trim levels called Extreme, Ultra, and Sport, respectively. Updated pricing is as follows.

2023 Ocean Extreme: $37,499 ($24,000 less than before)

2023 Ocean Ultra: $34,999 ($18,000 less than before)

2023 Ocean Sport: $24,999 ($14,000 less than before)

Note that these figures exclude destination and available incentives.

Fisker notes that the price cuts only apply to 2023 models, which could deter some buyers. While these are new cars, and they feature the 2024 version of the company's operating system, some rival brands are already rolling out their 2025 models. To sweeten the deal, Fisker points out that the leftover 2023s are equipped with up to $7,000 in options including 22-inch wheels and extra-cost paint colors.

Time will tell whether these massive discounts ($24,000 is about the price of a new Hyundai Kona) will allow the brand to trim down excess inventory. The Ocean's launch has been dotted with problems, including loss of power while driving, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened a preliminary probe into the crossover due to four complaints "alleging unintended vehicle movement."

Meanwhile, all is not well at Fisker. The company laid off about 15% of its staff earlier in March 2024 and warned that it risks running out of money. It later paused production of the Ocean, which is built in Austria by contract manufacturer Magna, because it's sitting on a global inventory of around 4,700 unsold cars worth over $200 million. Its shares were suspended from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) as talks with a major carmaker, widely rumored to be Nissan, fell through. Fisker has reportedly hired advisers for a potential bankruptcy.

Story continues





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CORRECTED: Macron tells Brazil, France 'at your side' in developing nuclear-powered subs



Itaguai, Brazil, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



President Emmanuel Macron told Brazil Wednesday France was "at your side" as the country seeks to develop nuclear-powered submarines.

"I want us to open the chapter for new submarines ... that we look nuclear propulsion in the face while being perfectly respectful of all non-proliferation commitments," Macron said at the launch of a conventionally powered Franco-Brazilian submarine in Itaguai near Rio de Janeiro. "You want it, France will be at your side."

Macron stopped short, however, of announcing specific collaboration on nuclear propulsion technology.
Niger says Washington to submit plan to 'disengage' troops



Niamey, Niger, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



Niger said Wednesday that the United States will shortly submit a proposal for its soldiers to "disengage" from the West African country, after the military regime in Niamey said it was withdrawing from a 2012 cooperation agreement with Washington.

Niger's interior minister General Mohamed Toumba met with US ambassador Kathleen FitzGibbon on Wednesday to discuss the issue, the interior ministry said.

FitzGibbon told the minister her country had "taken note of the decision" by Niger to withdraw from the military agreement and would be "coming back with a plan" on the "methods for disengaging" the more than 1,000 American troops based in Niger, according to the ministry's statement. Niamey's announcement that it is breaking with the US came Saturday after a three-day visit by a senior US delegation to renew contact with the junta.

In mid-March Niger said the 2012 cooperation agreement had been "unilaterally imposed" by Washington.

US troops have been stationed at a $100 billion desert drone base to combat the jihadist violence plaguing much of West Africa.

After General Abdourahamane Tiani seized power in a July coup, the regime ousted troops from former colonial power France and sought deeper military and political partnerships with Russia.

Neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso made similar moves and joined a joint defence pact with Niger, exiting the wider West African bloc ECOWAS.

Tiani spoke by telephone Tuesday with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the "strengthening" of their security agreements after Moscow announced in mid-January its intention to "intensify" military cooperation.

A Russian delegation also visited Niger last December.
Niger says US to submit plan to 'disengage' troops



Niamey, Niger, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



Niger on Wednesday said the United States will shortly submit a proposal to "disengage" its soldiers from the country, after the regime said it was withdrawing from a 2012 cooperation deal with Washington.

Interior minister General Mohamed Toumba met US ambassador Kathleen FitzGibbon on Wednesday to discuss the issue, his ministry said in Niamey, the West African nation's capital.

FitzGibbon told the minister that Washington had "taken note of the decision" by Niger to withdraw from the military agreement and would be "coming back with a plan" on the "methods for disengaging" the more than 1,000 US troops based in Niger, according to the ministry's statement.

In Washington, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller declined to comment on the Nigerien interior ministry's assertion and said the status of US troops remained "broadly" the same for now.

The United States has been "in touch with the transition authorities to seek clarification" on statements about the troops, Miller told reporters.

"We have been having these conversations, but I don't think it would be productive for me to read them out," he added.

Niamey's announcement that it is breaking with the United States came on Saturday after a three-day visit by a senior US delegation to renew contact with the junta.

In mid-March, Niger said that the 2012 cooperation agreement had been "unilaterally imposed" by Washington.

US troops have been stationed at a $100 billion desert drone base to combat the jihadist violence plaguing much of West Africa.

After General Abdourahamane Tiani seized power in a July coup, the regime ousted troops from former colonial power France and sought deeper military and political partnerships with Russia.

Neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso made similar moves and joined a joint defence pact with Niger, exiting the wider West African bloc ECOWAS.

Tiani on Tuesday spoke by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the "strengthening" of their security agreements after Moscow announced in mid-January its intention to "intensify" military cooperation.

A Russian delegation also visited Niger last December.
Macron, Lula hail defense ties at submarine launch



Itaguai, Brazil, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



President Emmanuel Macron and counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Wednesday celebrated the launch of Brazil's third French-designed submarine, which will help secure the country's immense coastline, dubbed the "Blue Amazon."

The two men highlighted the importance of their countries' defense partnership during a time of major global unrest, at a ceremony at Brazil's ultra-modern naval base in Itaguai near Rio de Janeiro.

It is here that Brazil built the Tonelero, the third of four planned conventional diesel attack submarines, with training, equipment, and technical assistance from France.

Under cloudy skies, the submarine was christened by First Lady Rosangela da Silva, nicknamed "Janja."

France and Brazil's defense ties "will allow two important countries, each on a continent, to prepare so that we can face this adversity, without worrying about any type of war, because we are defenders of peace," said Lula.

Despite differences, notably on the Ukraine war, Macron said "the great peaceful powers of Brazil and France" had "the same vision of the world."

Macron is on a whirlwind tour of Brazil, a major economic ally, which kicked off Tuesday with the launch of a plan to raise over a billion dollars in green investments to protect the Brazilian and Guyanese Amazon.

- Jungle bromance -



The visit, the first by a French president to Latin America's economic giant in over a decade, is also a move to reset ties which had deteriorated significantly under former president Jair Bolsonaro.

A warm meeting between Macron and Lula in the Amazon, in which the two men were pictured beaming and clasping hands in the jungle, spawned a raft of internet memes about their bromance.

The cozy scenes -- a far cry from the days Bolsonaro lobbed insults at Macron's wife -- continued Wednesday at the submarine launch.

With its 8,500 kilometers of coastline, Brazil is seeking to ensure the security of what it calls the "blue Amazon," its immense exclusive economic zone through which more than 95 percent of its foreign trade passes and where it extracts 95 percent of its oil.

The construction of the submarines was outlined in a 2008 deal between Lula and former French president Nicolas Sarkozy, which also included the purchase of 50 Caracal helicopters.

The fourth submarine, the Angostura, will be launched in 2025.

- France skirts around nuclear sub -



Brazil is also planning to build its first nuclear-powered submarine, the Alvaro Alberto, a project that has suffered significant delays, mainly due to budget constraints.

The French naval defense manufacturer Naval Group is supporting the design and construction of the submarine, except for the nuclear boiler which is being designed by the Brazilians.

Brasilia is however trying to convince Paris to increase technology transfers to help it integrate the reactor into the submarine and sell it equipment linked to nuclear propulsion.

France has been reticent to transfer such technology due to the challenges of nuclear proliferation.

"If Brazil wants to have access to knowledge of nuclear technology, it is not to wage war. We want this knowledge to assure all countries that want peace that Brazil will be at their side," said Lula.

Macron told Brazil "France will be at your side" during the development of the nuclear-powered submarines, without announcing specific assistance.

"I want us to open the chapter for new submarines... that we look nuclear propulsion in the face while being perfectly respectful of all non-proliferation commitments," he said.

Later on Wednesday, Macron arrived in the economic capital Sao Paulo to promote his country to Brazilian investors.

France is the third largest investor in Brazil, with more than 40 billion euros in direct investments in the country.

"Brazil is not up to par in terms of investment in France when you see the size and expertise of Brazilian conglomerates," said the Elysee presidential palace.

On Thursday Lula will welcome Macron to the Planalto presidential palace in the capital Brasilia.
Cars readied for export are parked next to a vehicle storage facility on the dockside at the ABP port in Southampton

By Alistair Smout

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain said on Wednesday that post-Brexit trade arrangements with Canada that enable its carmakers to avoid high tariffs there were likely to expire next week, marking the latest deterioration in trade ties between the historic allies.

Britain and Canada paused talks over a new free trade agreement in January amid disagreement on Rules of Origin (ROO) arrangements, due to expire at the end of March, as well as mutual unhappiness about a lack of access to agricultural markets.

On Wednesday, Britain said Canada had decided not to roll over the Rules of Origin arrangements it had agreed when it left the European Union, terms that had been used as a stop gap while the two sides tried to agree on a full trade deal.

Under the terms, both sides agreed that UK goods that used inputs either from the EU or processed in the bloc should count as made in the UK and as such qualify for lower tariffs in Canada. An end to the agreement could leave carmakers that do not meet the new ROO requirements facing a tariff of 6.1% in Canada.

"Canada's decision not to roll over these Rules of Origin will increase the cost of trade and hurt businesses on both sides of the Atlantic," a spokesperson for Britain's Department for Business and Trade said.

"The UK government remains ready to work with Canada to find a solution that works for both countries, but we won't accept rowing back on the current terms."

Canada's trade ministry did not respond to a request for comment.

British auto exports to Canada were worth almost 700 million pounds ($883.68 million) in 2023. Britain's Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT) said new tariffs would be deeply disappointing.

"We urge all parties to be pragmatic, to resume negotiations on an upgraded trade deal and, in the meantime, agree the extension of EU cumulation that would avoid the imposition of tariffs until a new deal is finalised," said SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes.

Story continues

In late 2023, Britain rolled over similar ROO arrangements with South Korea and Mexico.

Britain and Canada, both members of the Commonwealth and the G7, are allies with close historical ties. But the negotiation of new trading terms has brought their competing interests to the fore.

British sensitivity to Canadian hormone-treated beef and spats over cheese quotas marred talks over a new free trade agreement.

A UK government source said the government had been trying to find an agreement with Canada over ROO for several months but that Ottawa had shown "no willingness" to agree an extension.

($1 = 0.7921 pound)

(Additional reporting by David Ljunggren in Ottawa; Editing by Kate Holton, Kirsten Donovan and Bill Berkrot)
The UK has one of the best scientific bases in the world still, from out of that spins out many companies including from universities. The venture capital funds are helping them build businesses. But how they now grow is the issue.
In this current economic climate, the offer made is both fair and financially responsible and is already being paid to over 85% of our colleagues across the rest of the business, including news colleagues in the Bectu union who voted to accept the award.
Biden has a typically folksy story to account for this success. My dad used to say, Joey, dont compare me to the Almighty. Compare me to the alternative. Nearly half of Biden voters in the Bloomberg poll said they were voting against Trump, rather than positively for Biden. Trumps negatives remain high: 53 per cent of US voters disapprove of him, according to the polling organisation FiveThirtyEight. Could the message be getting through that, like it or not, Biden is all that stands between America and Trumps remorseless return?
We all hang around at the end, and we tell them theyre all incredibly special, and that their lives matter as much as everybody elses. Quite often we have a queue wanting to come up and talk to us about knife crime, kids saying thank you, that wed opened their eyes to something. Weve had several schools tell us that knives have been reported being carried because of the workshops.
A word about the service, which is faultless. Attentive but not cloying, you feel alone in the resort and yet when you need someone they appear before the thought even forms. My sister, who I was travelling with, broke a button on a dress and within minutes a helpful member of staff arrived at our Pavilion to sew it back on. And there is a free laundry service which I wish more hotels would offer. There is nothing quite like getting back home to London with a case full of freshly laundered clothes.
The judge, Mr Justice Hilliard, told jurors the defendant would be guilty of murder if they were sure he intentionally encouraged the primary robbers to take part () and intended serious harm should be caused, if necessary, to carry out the robbery and escape with the proceeds.
Tory campaign headquarters (CCHQ) seem undeterred by criticism of their latest series of attack ads about life under Labour. The first featured an ominous American voiceover claiming Sadiq Khan had seized power in London to make it crime capital of the world while showing black-and-white footage of New York (since deleted). It was panned across the board, with the editor of the Tory-leaning Spectator magazine calling it one of the worst videos CCHQ has ever produced. Now they have turned their attention to the countrys second city of Birmingham, in what they describe as a tale equally chilling. The same narrator blames the citys Labour-run council for its woes. Conveniently, they leave out any mention that Khans opposite number in Birmingham is a Conservative: Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street. Funny that.
Ukraine sea drones could hit Putin new boat squad to stop Dnipro crossings, say UK defence chiefs

Ukraine sea drones could hit a new boat squad set up as Vladimir Putin seeks to stop crossings to the Russian-held side of the vast Dnipro River, say UK defence chiefs.

They highlighted the creation of the Dnipro River Flotilla by Russian maritime chiefs.

It will aim to stop Ukrainian troops from crossing in greater numbers from the west side of the vast river in eastern Ukraine to the east which is controlled by Russia.

They previously established a bridgehead at Krynky which Putins military has sought to destroy, with both sides losing large numbers of personnel and equipment in fierce battles.

Russias Black Sea Fleet has suffered a string of losses, with ships being sunk or damaged.

The British defence chiefs believe the flotilla will decouple river patrolling functions from the fleet which has been pushed back to the eastern Black Sea to avoid Ukrainian attacks.

In its latest intelligence update, the Ministry of Defence in London said: On 20 March 2024, Russian Defence Minister Sergey Shoigu announced the formation of the Dnipro River Flotilla and a boat brigade.

This new formation will likely be responsible for securing the Dnipro waterways and islands that separate Russian and Ukrainian controlled Kherson.

It is a realistic possibility the Dnipro Flotilla will be subordinate to the Dnipro Group of Forces, which combined the Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro Group of Forces in February 2024.

The briefing added: Russia likely wants to prevent and deny Ukrainian cross river operations, such as the operation to establish and maintain the Krynky bridgehead.

Russian and Ukrainian forces have both lost large numbers of personnel and equipment in exchanges on Krynky.

On 17 March 2024, Ukrainian forces in Krynky reported repelling the 810th Guards Russian Naval Infantry Brigade in the area.

It also stressed: It is likely this formation will decouple river patrolling functions from the Black Sea Fleet, whilst the Black Sea Fleet is operating further afield in the eastern Black Sea.

Story continues

The Dnipro Flotilla will likely be vulnerable to Ukranian uncrewed surface vehicles which have been effective in destroying Russian vessels operating in the Black Sea.

In mid-February, Ukrainian forces successfully targeted, using a sea drone, the large Russian landing ship the Tsezar Kunikov off occupied Crimea in the Black Sea, having previously attacked a smaller naval corvette.

Just over a month later, in March, four ships including three landing vessels, the Konstantin Olshansky, Azov and Yamal, were damaged in an attack on the Russian Black Sea Fleet base of Sevastopol, in Crimea, as was the Ivan Khurs reconnaissance vessel, a communications centre and other infrastructure , according to Ukrainian sources.

The flagship of the fleet, the Moskva, was sunk in spring 2022.

Ukraines air force chief said on Wednesday that Russia launched 13 Shahed drones at Ukraine overnight, 10 of which were downed in Kharkiv, Sumy and Kyiv regions.

Anti-aircraft missile units, mobile fire groups, electronic warfare equipment ... were involved in repelling the air attack, Mykola Oleshchuk stated.
The decision, which was taken after the judge received testimony from a Baptist minister backing Ezedi remaining in Britain, came despite him having an earlier conviction for indecent exposure and sexual assault and the conclusion of another judge that Ezedi, who had come to the UK from Afghanistan in 2016, had lied in his earlier failed applications.
On how long someone must have lived in the Isle of Man before being eligible for an assisted death, it states: The committee concludes that the requirement for a patient to be ordinarily resident in the island for not less than one year is insufficient, and support the bringing forward of an amendment to extend this to five years.
Jeans have been prohibited since the 1990s when leader Kim Jong-il declared them to be a symbol of Western, and specifically US, imperialism, which had no place in a socialist state, according to Seoul-based outlet NK News.
It is not site-specific and is a work already purchased and has no relationship to this site, they said in a report. It is too large a scale for the context of the space it will be located within and will compromise the quality of the new development and have a negative impact on the wider public realm and streetscape.
On Wednesday morning, more than 14,000 people had signed it. It states: Many of the proposed changes, such as regulating the trade in animals online or taking action against the illegal puppy trade, make sense ... but the new animal protection law contains requirements that could mean the end of many healthy dog breeds in Germany.
It was the second attack in Slovakia in three days after a 31-year-old Belarussian woman was found dead following another brown bear sighting nearby. The bear was shot at around 9.50pm on Tuesday after a drone was used to identify him, Slovakian Environment Minister Tomas Taraba posted on Facebook.
Authorities did not specify the reasons for the raids or whether they were connected to Combs, however US media outlets reported it was part of an ongoing sex trafficking investigation by federal authorities in New York.
She told Vanity Fair at the time: 'We had an idea and we were developing it for a while, ages ago, to have more of a female-lednot totally female-led, but just a different kind of storywhich we thought would've been really cool, but I guess they dont want to do it.
A second police report referencing 2023 incidents that threatened the safety and wellbeing of Chippewa Falls students and teachers has surfaced.

The second report references an investigation into a student in April 2023, six months before the October 2023 incident that made headlines in Chippewa Falls last month.

Both reports found the student or students being investigated referred to the Columbine mass shootings in manifestos and threatened the lives of Chippewa Area Unified School District classmates. Others threatened in the two incidents include teachers and parents.

It is unclear whether the incidents are related or involved the same student.

The police reports were first reported by the Louder with Crowder website.

'Manifesto' references Columbine shooting

On April 5, 2023, Chippewa Falls police officer Brian Flug filed a police report that refers to a students disorderly conduct as terrorist threats.

According to the report, Flug, who worked as a school resource officer in Chippewa Falls, was initially contacted by a Chippewa County sheriffs deputy who had located some concerning journal entries that reference school shooting.

Flug contacted the woman who had reported finding the journal. The woman, whose name is redacted from the report, met with Flug and Chippewa Falls Middle School principal Scott DeRusha at the high school on April 5 concerning the journal entries written by a student.

The woman reported finding a cardboard cutout of a gun in the room of the student, whose name has also been redacted. The woman also found a notebook where the student made reference in a March 2023 journal entry to being the reincarnated Eric Harris, according to the police report.

Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold were American high school seniors who perpetrated the Columbine High School massacre at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999, in Colorado. Harris and Klebold killed 12 students, one teacher and wounded 24 others before both died of self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

The students notebook said that they were looking for Dylan, according to the report.

It goes on to say that the student wrote that it is like my (expletive) teacher wants me to slice her throat open and then wrote about stabbing someone, though the report states it is unclear to whom the student is referring. The student also stated they hoped their father would get in a car crash and die before threatening to end his life.

The student told Flug they had used the communication app Discord to talk with people across the country about Columbine and to talk with others about plans to shoot up the school.

The student writes in the notebook that they pretend to want to be a detective and to hate guns to trick people into thinking they arent a serious threat.

'Hit list' of students

The report states some students were threatened by name in the notebook. Their parents were contacted by the school, according to the report, but the general public was not told about the threats or investigation.

Parent Emily Gumbert and her father, James Gumbert, both addressed the school board during its Feb. 27 meeting. The meeting addressed safety concerns and procedures for handling threats and was prompted by revelations related to a "credible threat" in October 2023 that was not made public.

The meeting at the Chippewa Falls High School auditorium was filled with concerned parents who asked for more transparency from the school district in situations that may threaten their kids. Parents also said repeatedly they wanted to be notified of school threats.

Emily Gumbert told the board during the meeting that the October incident was not the first time students were threatened in 2023. She said she was contacted in the spring of 2023 by the school after her daughter and other students were threatened by a classmate when they were in eighth grade.

There was a manifesto that was made by a certain individual student at the middle school in eighth grade. There was a hit list of three individual children at the school, she said.

Public unaware

Gumbert said the public was not made aware of the threat.

I was told by the police department to make sure my daughter was in a safe place because this individual student had threatened to steal a firearm. These parents have no idea of that. I was told that it was going to be addressed, she said. My question for the board is these students that have been targeted, where's the mental health help for them? My daughter is now a freshman in high school. She cannot attend school. You know why? Because that individual student was allowed to come back to the school.

She said when the student who threatened to kill her daughter returned to school, she was not notified.

My daughter had to notify me, she said to the board in tears. You guys are letting us down. My daughter cannot even attend school because she is scared.

James Gumbert followed his daughter in addressing the board.

My granddaughter cannot even come to school. She's afraid. I tried to take her there one day and she couldn't make it, she really could not make it in the door. So I wonder what you guys want to do about this? Because this is ridiculous. She's a mess, and there's no reason for this for you guys to be covering this up, he said.

The school safety discussion came in the wake of Feb. 7 reports that a Chippewa Falls Middle School student's internet searches triggered a police investigation into a "serious" threat of violence in October 2023, according to a separate police report.

During the October 2023 investigation, police reports stated law enforcement was investigating the online searches made by a student when officers discovered a paper notebook in which the student wrote detailed plans on how they planned to massacre classmates, saying that they took inspiration from the Columbine school shootings.

April 2023 investigation

In the earlier case, Flug wrote that he spoke with both parents of the student in question. One of the parents stated on April 18, 2023, that he does own firearms, however, they are all in a safe and that ammunition is also stored locked up.

The report states that DeRusha went through some options with the student in question about finishing out the year virtually.
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Congressman Derrick Van Orden announced Tuesday five military medals will be awarded to 102-year-old Neil Korn of Chippewa Falls.

Korn is a retired U.S. Army private first class who served from Jan. 8, 1943, to Dec. 15, 1944.

We can never fully thank veterans for their service to our country, but we absolutely should ensure they receive the recognition they deserve for their sacrifices. I look forward to presenting this American hero with the medals he earned through his honorable service to our nation, Van Orden said.

Korn completed battles and campaigns in Normandy, France, northern France and Rhineland, Germany.

As a retired U.S. Navy SEAL, it is an absolute honor to secure these medals for Mr. Neil Korn and recognize his commitment to fighting for peace and freedom during World War II, Van Orden said.

The medals awarded to Korn include:

Good Conduct Medal, awarded to active duty enlisted military members who conducted honorable and faithful service.

European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, awarded to military service members who performed military duty in the European Theater, with the Army Three Bronze Stars.

World War II Victory Medal, awarded to active duty service members who served during Dec. 7, 1941, and Dec. 31, 1946.

Army of Occupation Medal, awarded for 30 consecutive days at a normal post of duty on assignment of the armies of occupation, with the Germany Clasp.

Honorable Service Lapel Button, awarded for honorable federal military service between 1925 and 1946.
Romania is among the staunch supporters of the European future of the Republic of Moldova, as its citizens want, prime minister Marcel Ciolacu said in a message on the occasion of the Union of Bessarabia with Romania Day.

"It is a celebration of the soul of the Romanians on both banks of the Prut, the Day of the Union of Bessarabia with Romania, in which we mark the historical act of March 27, 1918, by which the will of the Bessarabian Romanians to return to their motherland after a century of tsarist occupation was fulfilled. Our community of language, culture and history cannot be erased, even if the history of the last century once again created different destinies for us. Moreover, we now see how our brothers across the Prut aspire to the values of the democratic world from which Romania chose already to be a part. Their aspirations began to take shape with the decision of the leaders of the European Union to launch accession negotiations with the Republic of Moldova", stated Marcel Ciolacu.

The prime minister reiterated that Romania is among the staunch supporters of the European future of the Republic of Moldova, as its citizens want.

"Besides the bilateral cooperation projects in the field of cross-border energy interconnections and financial assistance, where Romania is actively involved in the development of the Republic of Moldova, we are happy to share during the accession process our own expertise in the field of European integration. We are waiting for you as soon as possible as soon as possible in the space of European democratic values!", Ciolacu also said.
Romania is among the staunch supporters of the European future of the Republic of Moldova, as its citizens want, prime minister Marcel Ciolacu said in a message on the occasion of the Union of Bessarabia with Romania Day.

"It is a celebration of the soul of the Romanians on both banks of the Prut, the Day of the Union of Bessarabia with Romania, in which we mark the historical act of March 27, 1918, by which the will of the Bessarabian Romanians to return to their motherland after a century of tsarist occupation was fulfilled. Our community of language, culture and history cannot be erased, even if the history of the last century once again created different destinies for us. Moreover, we now see how our brothers across the Prut aspire to the values of the democratic world from which Romania chose already to be a part. Their aspirations began to take shape with the decision of the leaders of the European Union to launch accession negotiations with the Republic of Moldova", stated Marcel Ciolacu.The prime minister reiterated that Romania is among the staunch supporters of the European future of the Republic of Moldova, as its citizens want."Besides the bilateral cooperation projects in the field of cross-border energy interconnections and financial assistance, where Romania is actively involved in the development of the Republic of Moldova, we are happy to share during the accession process our own expertise in the field of European integration. We are waiting for you as soon as possible as soon as possible in the space of European democratic values!", Ciolacu also said.
Danny Jacobs always knew his dad, Richard, was ... different.

For instance, Richards house had no street number. Instead, he lived in Creve Coeur at the Royal Manor on Royal Manor Drive because hed pushed the county into letting him name his house like it was an estate. (This made getting food delivered almost impossible.)

And the house was like the Boo Radley House, childhood friend Darren Grodsky, 44, remembers. It was the house in the neighborhood all the kids were scared of.

Grodsky remembers a dark interior packed with boxes and piles of papers as unwelcoming as the exterior when he slept over as a kid.

Adults were wary of the house, too, but for different reasons. If he felt wronged or slighted, Richard, a lawyer, would use the legal system to seek retribution, his son recalls. When that didnt work, Richard engaged in endless letter-writing campaigns and all-hours phone calls to get what he wanted, according to Jacobs.

On a podcast, Danny Jacobs, 44, says his mom was invited to join a support group after his parents divorced. But it wasnt for divorcees. It was for victims of Richard.

There were dozens of them. ... And after my dad lost his law license, which is a whole other story, they set out to make sure he was permanently disbarred, he says in the podcasts first episode.

Richard lost his license in the early 1980s. At the time, in a related legal case, he was diagnosed by a psychiatrist as having narcissistic personality disorder, which causes people to have a high regard for themselves but not to understand or care about the feelings of others.

He was diagnosed again with the disorder as part of a custody battle after the divorce. Danny was 6 when his parents divorced.

The disorder explained a lot of Richards destructive behavior, which often corroded his closest relationships. For instance, he wanted to help his son break into the film industry, so he sent letters in Dannys name to Hollywood bigwigs asking for an meetings. Danny was unaware of it until a friend told him about the letters.

Richard struggled to hold down regular jobs after being fired from the Securities and Exchange Commission for accessing a classified database, his son says.

Danny eventually had to cut his father off, and Richard died four years later, in 2015. By then, Danny had moved to Los Angeles and become a filmmaker. His childhood friend, Grodsky, became his writing and directing partner.

Together, they made the films Humboldt County and Growing Up and Other Lies. Danny also acts, has a regular improv show at the Groundlings, a wife and kids, and a life far from St. Louis.

But he had never really dealt with any of it: the sadness of his childhood, the loss of a father, the impact his upbringing had on his life and, perhaps most importantly, the worries about raising his own kids.

A lot of times for people, parenthood is about re-creating, in a nostalgic way, experiences from their childhood with their own children, and I have none of that, Danny Jacobs says during an interview.

So he partnered again with Grodsky and started a podcast about his dad called How to Destroy Everything.

Podcast goes viral

Jacobs and Grodsky decided to release the first episode of How to Destroy Everything as soon as it was finished, with no other shows in the offing. This was intentional.

Jacobs isnt fully aware of everything his dad was up to when he was growing up. His father was secretive, building hidden compartments into his home, controlling 60 phone numbers under various pseudonyms and hoarding documents.

So Jacobs set up an email: iknowrichardjacobs@gmail.com to allow listeners who may have known Richard to share stories as part of the show.

To get listeners, Jacobs and Grodsky applied to be highlighted on Apples homepage banner, which Apple regularly changes. After they released their second episode in October 2023, they were featured.

The podcast got a quarter-million listeners in just a few days and peaked at No. 3 on the charts.

It was insane, Grodsky recalls.

The podcast now has more than a million streams.

Suddenly, everyone had the same question, Where is the next episode?

We were working on it, but it was not all done, Grodsky says. So we were in a state of panic  euphoria and panic at the same time.

iHeartRadio even recognized the show in its iHeart Podcast Awards, nominating it for best emerging podcast for 2024. How to Destroy Everything lost out to The Really Good Podcast with Bobbi Althoff, but its still impressive for a show with only two episodes and a few interstitial place holders that the team calls Interregnums.

There have been lots of changes behind the scenes. Grodsky and Jacobs partnered with a new producer, Michael Grant Terry, who also works on SmartLess, a popular podcast hosted by Sean Hayes, Jason Bateman and Will Arnett.

With reenactments, trips back to St. Louis and more, creating the podcast costs money. Jacobs and Grodsky have only had a Patreon to generate support. They are now in talks with various podcast networks and plan to relaunch the show, hopefully this summer.

In the meantime, theyre still working on episodes and will release them on a regular cadence when the show starts back up.

We apologize to everyone for the delay, Jacobs says. If I were out there, I would be furious as well. All we can say is that it will be worth it in the end.

How many narcissists are out there?

In the meantime, Jacobs and Grodsky have been inundated with emails from people who have narcissists in their lives.

Jacobs shared one letter during Interregnum 2, which read in part: Holy (expletive) I am not alone. Someone else had a narcissistic sociopath with pathological tendencies as a father.

Grodsky then made a joke, wondering how many narcissists there are in the world.

Apparently a lot, Jacobs replies.

The podcasts popularity has been a double-edged sword for Jacobs.

Friends (and) people I dont know will come up to me like, Hey, lets talk about the most significant trauma in your life, Jacobs said in an interview. Suddenly, Im out in the world, and thats being asked of me. Im not complaining about it, Im just pointing it out as an additional challenge that I wasnt expecting.

Family dynamics have also shifted for Jacobs. One of his family members is adamantly opposed to the podcast because in my family, there is a lot of residual shame with being associated with my dad, Jacobs says. So anything that brings attention to the fact that they are related to him triggers their own intense shame and brings it to the surface.

One of the things Ive come to realize about doing the show and seeing the effect it has on my family is that basically theres like generational trauma, Jacobs adds.

Before, it largely went unacknowledged, but he says the show has created a new dynamic.

There is a lot of chaos as were seeing where the chips land. And its painful and its hard and complicated, Jacobs says.

The podcast isnt shying away from the dynamics. Instead, in the Thanksgiving Announcement episode, you can hear Jacobs reacting in real time to a family group text where he was being attacked by one relative and the rest of the family was asking him to be more careful of the other persons feelings.

Im pissed off, Jacobs explodes on the podcast. Im the one that got attacked here. And everyones like, Oh, can you just be careful. Its upsetting this other person. What about me? ... Maybe try having some empathy for me. This is exactly what my childhood was, dude. Everybody (expletive) concerned about everybody (else).

The long shadow of Richard Jacobs

Despite upset family members, Grodsky and Jacobs try to present a picture of Richard as more than a destructive presence.

For instance, Richards dislike of authority saw him fight the American Bar Association all the way to the Supreme Court over regulations about how lawyers could advertise. While it was a rare instance when Richard didnt represent himself, he did win his case.

Plus, there were daily absurdities that Grodsky and Jacobs laugh at.

When Grodskys dad died, for instance, Richard sat shiva every day. (Jews sit shiva for seven days when someone dies.) Richard had gone to high school with Grodskys parents, but Grodsky didnt realize they were that close. Soon, Grodsky and his mother realized Richard was just there for the free food, and he wasnt actually talking to anyone.

Another listener wrote in to say they thought theyd once seen Richard at a grocery store ... eating directly from the salad bar.

Still, even these anecdotes are embarrassing for Jacobs, and he continues to uncover negative stories about his dad when talking to neighbors and other people who reached out.

But the podcast is leading to something good. Jacobs mom, Sandy, has become a beloved part of the podcast as she describes what it was like being married to Richard.

My moms involvement in the podcast has been amazing, he says.

At first, his older brother objected to the podcast, but Jacobs says a lengthy conversation they had would make it into an upcoming episode. Plus, his friendship with Grodsky has deepened.

We are and have been talking about things in this podcast that we have never actually talked about before, Grodsky said in an interview. And as a result, theres a greater vulnerability. I think I understand Danny more as a result of this, and we have greater intimacy as a result.

There was a pause.

It makes me uncomfortable, but its fine, Jacobs said, jokingly.

Its a peek at how Jacobs handled years of an unstable childhood, by making a joke when he was uncomfortable. But Jacobs is changing.

I have faith that this process is a positive thing, he says, and that it will lead me to a more enlightened and hopefully more emotionally connected place. I have hope.

You can listen to How to Destroy Everything wherever you stream your podcasts.
Joe Holleman Political correspondent/columnist Follow Joe Holleman Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Wesley Bell continues to rack up endorsements from unions in his attempt to unseat U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, D-St. Louis.

Two large labor groups  Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council and Local 562 of the Plumbers and Pipefitters  put their backs into the St. Louis County prosecuting attorneys campaign.

Also endorsing Bell on Wednesday was Insulators Local 1. The combined membership of the three unions is about 57,000.

Bell previously has picked up endorsements from the United Food and Commercial Workers, the Sheet Metal Workers and the Missouri-Kansas Laborers Council.

Bush meanwhile has gotten the nod from the 14,000-member Service Employees International Union.

Also joining Bell in challenging Bush in the Aug. 6 Democratic primary is former state legislator Maria Chappelle-Nadal.

Bush, a two-term incumbent, has drawn criticism for her staunchly pro-Palestinian stance after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel.

News reports indicate that the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, a powerful pro-Israel lobbying group, had created a $100 million war chest aimed at defeating Bush and other progressive lawmakers.
ST. LOUIS  Regional leaders endorsed a plan aimed at reducing homicides in the metro area, rejecting a move by St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann to give police and prosecutors half the seats on the advisory panel overseeing the initiative.

Whoever controls the majority ... is going to control the agenda, Ehlmann said at a meeting of the East-West Gateway Council of Governments on Wednesday.

The anti-violence initiative, worked out during a weeklong conference in December, aims to cut murders in the metro area by 20% over the next three years, focusing on the relatively small number of people involved in many homicides here.

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones defended the plan, saying Ehlmanns amendment would have tipped the scales toward law enforcement.

The principles under which this plan was put together are three pieces: prevention, intervention and enforcement, she said.

The amendment failed.

The overall regional plan, approved 13-5 by the Gateway board, calls for using a strategy called focused deterrence, in which police and social service agencies give people repeatedly involved in violence a choice in meetings with police and others. Job training, education, mental health and drug treatment would be offered, while those who continue engaging in crime would get targeted enforcement action.

The plan also calls for increased hiring of street outreach workers likely aimed at high-crime areas of St. Louis, St. Louis County and St. Clair County.

Ehlmann contended that social service-oriented groups will have too much influence in shaping the plans details and law enforcement too little.

Under the approved plan, police and prosecutors will hold 19 of 68 slots on the advisory panel, which will meet four times a year.

Elected officials and their appointees will fill 18 and the remainder is expected to be a mix of people from business groups, schools and health, social service, neighborhood, religious and other nonprofit organizations.

St. Louis County Executive Sam Page and Clayton Mayor Michelle Harris agreed with Jones, saying police will play a key role on the advisory panel.

If the law enforcement folks in the room say theyre uncomfortable with something, their voice is going to be heard, Page said.

The Gateway Councils executive director, Jim Wild, added that the Gateway board will make the ultimate decisions on money and approach and that sort of thing for the plan, dubbed Save Lives Now.

Wild said the initiative is expected to cost about $2 million for the first three years, with a mix of private and government funds involved. He said private organizations have committed $125,000 so far, including $25,000 in each of the next three years from the Regional Business Council.

Other Ehlmann amendments also failed, including one to block the appointment of Jones and Page as co-chairs of the advisory panel. He instead wanted the panel to be jointly led by one elected official from the Missouri side of the metro area and one from Illinois.

Ehlmann also wanted the two co-chairs to represent opposite views on how to reduce criminal violence, one favoring traditional law enforcement approaches and the other efforts to reduce the root causes of crime.

Among those backing Ehlmann were top officials from Jefferson and Madison counties, while council members from St. Louis, St. Louis County and St. Clair County generally sided with Jones.

Another flashpoint was over an amendment by Ehlmann to bar the planned anti-violence initiative from hiring any social workers unless the St. Louis police department first hired 10 new police officers. Ehlmann later changed his amendment to allow the new anti-violence organization to hire a social worker or workers only if city police hire an equal number of new officers. That updated amendment was voted down.

He said he didnt think the plan could work without traditional police methods and with an understaffed police department, referring to the city department.

Jones shot back: Im sorry, you can no more mandate what we do in the city of St. Louis police department ... than I can mandate what you do in St. Charles.

She said the city has made strides in hiring new officers and that across the country, police departments have struggled to replace officers retiring at a rate faster than new ones can be employed and trained.

She also said: Maybe if St. Charles stopped poaching them, we wouldnt lose as many officers.

A St. Louis police spokesman, Sgt. Charles Wall, said later Wednesday that as of the start of this week, the department has 888 of 1,224 budgeted commissioned officer positions filled.

Jones said the city recently graduated a class of 11 new officers, is currently training 17 others and another class of 30 recruits starts training in two months.

The council also rejected an Ehlmann amendment to require all meetings and documents of the advisory panel and subcommittees to be covered by the Missouri open meetings and records law.

The plan calls for advisory panel meetings to be open to the public but says weekly meetings of an implementation team would be closed to the public and the press. Supporters said thats needed to keep potential criminals from learning about police strategy.
ST. LOUIS  A former Woodson Terrace police officer was sentenced to five years probation on Tuesday after pleading guilty to a federal civil rights charge for kicking a mans head during a 2019 arrest.

Several letters of support, submitted to the court by David W. Maas former colleagues and bosses, were at the center of arguments by both defense attorneys and prosecutors.

Maas lawyer, Neil Bruntrager, argued the support showed his clients dedication to his family, community and career of 30 years. Letter writers said he was regularly cool under pressure, quick to de-escalate situations and served as a model of good policing.

Mr. Maas performed well as both guardian and warrior in our profession, wrote St. John police Chief Robert Connell. He brought experience, ability and compassion to each and every call we worked together on.

But federal prosecutors said those same letters  some of which argued against Maas conviction and tried to justify his crime  showed signs of lingering law enforcement attitudes that favored old-school street justice instead of respect for the rights of everyone, including detainees.

It is a civil rights violation, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Krug. Its a crime.

The case dates back to April 14, 2019, when police received a call about a man carjacking a woman while she loaded groceries into her car at the Schnucks on St. Charles Rock Road and North Lindbergh Boulevard.

Police from several North County municipalities chased the vehicle across several cities along St. Charles Rock Road and Dr. Martin Luther King Drive before it turned onto a dead-end street in Wellston, according to court documents.

The driver of the car, Isaiah Forman, then made a U-turn and hit a St. Ann police car. Prosecutors say Formans passenger got out and ran, but Forman put his hands in the air and was lowering himself onto the ground when Maas came up and kicked him in the head. Forman was later sentenced to seven years in prison for the incident.

Krug, the federal prosecutor, said Tuesday that Maas did not report the incident or notify his superiors that he had been in a chase that night. Instead, they learned about his involvement when TV station KMOV prepared to publish a story featuring officer dash cam footage of the assault.

The defendant was not doing his job, Krug said. He had no business being in that pursuit.

Krug argued Maas should be sentenced to 16 months of home confinement instead of prison because of his severe medical problems. She said some of the officers who wrote letters on Maas behalf had been embroiled in federal civil rights lawsuits of their own, and a stiff sentence would encourage others to do better.

But Maas attorney, Bruntrager, argued his client should be sentenced only to probation. Bruntrager read excerpts from dozens of letters that highlighted Maas commitment to his children and how he frequently gave away money and other charitable acts.

In one letter, a current police officer talked about the day in 2011 when he was called to his first death investigation. A body had been left for two months during the summer in a home without air conditioning. From the outside, the windows looked black because of all of the flies circling the corpse.

The smell was so overwhelming and the scene so gruesome that the officer said he thought about quitting. But Maas gave him a piece of advice: Keep it simple and complete one task at a time.

The officer said Maas advice and support stopped him from quitting that day. Others had similar stories.

He impacted so many lives, Bruntrager said. The picture of this man  its in the letters.

Maas said he tried during his 30-year career to serve honestly and with integrity. He then apologized to his family and loved ones for his current situation.

Judge Henry Autrey contemplated Maas sentence, speaking about the importance of the oath officers take to serve and protect the public.

When you raise that hand, he said, that should mean something. And youre bound by that. Theres nothing that should justify wavering from that oath.

Autrey then sided with Maas lawyers, sentencing the former cop to five years of probation, including six months of location monitoring.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY  Hazelwood School District on Tuesday accused Missouris top lawyer of spouting falsehoods, disrespecting school districts and leveraging an obvious racial bias against majority-minority school districts.

In a letter sent to Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, the district lambasted Baileys claims that radical DEI programs in the district are to blame for a brutal after-school brawl this month that left a student hospitalized with brain injuries.

It is disappointing to have an attorney general that intentionally disrespects public school district administrators and elected officials by sending error-filled correspondence to intimidate and threaten their leadership, wrote Cindy Reeds Ormsby, an attorney representing the school district.

The letter was a response to Baileys announcement on Friday that he was investigating the districts diversity, equity and inclusion programs amid fallout from the fight. But it was unclear why Bailey thought the fight  which appeared to involve a Black attacker and a white victim  was related to the schools DEI practices.

Video of the fight went viral, and some online pointed to race as a factor. But neither police nor the school district have said race played a role.

It is surprising that you are opening an investigation based on lies that you could have easily ascertained if you would have taken a few minutes to fact check prior to sending your correspondence, the district wrote. However, I am not surprised that you continue to politicize your appointment to the office of Attorney General by spouting falsehoods that only serve to rile your base without complying with the Rules of Ethics to which you are bound.

The school district corrected several errors in Baileys announcement and letter to the district, including the date and time of the fight. Bailey incorrectly said the fight happened during the middle of the school day on March 11, but it happened after school on March 8. A news release on Baileys website still includes the wrong date and time.

Hazelwoods letter also questioned why Bailey set his focus on the district when others in north St. Louis County have also experienced issues with school violence  one of which resulted in the recent death of 14-year-old Justin Brooks in Jennings. And last month, at McCluer North in the Ferguson-Florissant School District, several fights in one day put the building under precautionary lockdown, with in-person classes canceled the next day.

Is that because you have assumed, without official verification, that the March 8 altercation was between a white student and a Black student, while the other incidents were Black-on-Black student or student/teacher encounters? the letter read. Do you value white students safety more than Black students safety?

Hazelwoods letter marked the latest example of a school district firing back after Bailey jumped into culture war issues in schools. In several of those cases, the districts argued Baileys claims were not rooted in fact.

In February, for example, Bailey sent a cease-and-desist letter to Parkway School District after he claimed the district was preventing students from forming religious-based clubs like Fellowship of Christian Athletes. When pressed for details by an attorney for the district, a staffer in Baileys office said a student had been denied an opportunity to start an FCA club at Parkway South, according to a letter to Bailey from attorney Margaret Hesse.

But the school already had an FCA club, as did the districts other three high schools.

In Hazelwood, Bailey claimed on Friday the district had no school resource officers, which he said was partly to blame for the fight even though it happened off school grounds.

The absence of SROs on the scene is directly attributable to Hazelwoods insistence on prioritizing race-based policies over basic student safety, Bailey wrote in a letter informing the district of his offices investigation.

But Ormsby, the lawyer for the district, said the district does have SROs.

Hazelwood School District has schools in three jurisdictions: St. Louis County, Florissant and Hazelwood. The district has a contract with Hazelwood to put SROs in schools that are within Hazelwoods city limits, according to the letter.

For schools outside of Hazelwood  like Hazelwood East, the high school attended by the two girls involved in the fight  the district has more than 60 security officers and security monitors, Ormsby wrote.

Hazelwoods letter noted that SROs would not have prevented the fight in question, as it happened about a quarter-mile from the school.

And a large part of Hazelwoods letter chastised Bailey for what the district said was a politically motivated investigation. Ormsby questioned if the attorney general believed the fight was really a racial issue caused by Hazelwoods belief in the importance of DEI for all.

About 80% of Hazelwoods student population is Black, according to 2021 data.

Do you understand that without equity, there is inequity and without inclusion, there is exclusion? read the districts letter. It is the Hazelwood School District and its Boards expectation that you use your position and resources honorably, to ensure that all Missouri citizens are regarded and treated equally.
Eight months ago, Dr. Chris Eberlein approached state Rep. Jill Billings about a dangerous drug called xylazine.

On Tuesday, Eberlein and Billings witnessed Gov. Tony Evers sign legislation they believe will protect drug users from fatal overdoses.

Evers, flanked by local firefighters, first responders, medical professionals and elected officials, signed a bill that decriminalizes the use of xylazine test strips. The signing ceremony was held Tuesday at Fire Station No. 2 on La Crosse Street.

Billings, a La Crosse Democrat, authored the bill along with state Sen. Jesse James, R-Altoona.

We know that xylazine test strips save lives, Billings said.

Eberlein, an emergency health specialist with Gundersen Health System in Onalaska, alerted Billings to the xylazine threat after learning about its spread in eastern Wisconsin. The drug, which goes by the street name tranq, is used primarily by veterinarians for sedation and anesthesia in large animals. However, the drug has recently been combined with fentanyl to produce an elevated effect for drug abusers.

Xylazine by itself doesnt produce the altered state of consciousness sought by drug users. But when used in combination with fentanyl, it extends the duration of the high.

Eberlein said the drug is often taken without the users knowledge. He said the drug is especially dangerous because its effects cant be reversed by Narcan.

If they knew (xylazine) had been added, it would give them pause, Eberlein said.

La Crosse mayor Mitch Reynolds believes addicts will take advantage of a tool that can potentially save their lives.

We know that test strips can help people who abuse drugs identify foreign substances in the drug that theyre normally using and make other choices, Reynolds said.

La Crosse County has already reported at least one death traced to xylazine.

Billings said there was no opposition to the bill and that the measure passed unanimously in both houses of the Legislature. She was gratified by how soon the bill moved to the governors desk.

We talked about the urgency of getting it through in a quick manner, Billings said. This bill is a perfect example of how government should work.

Evers traveled to La Crosse two years ago to sign a bill legalizing fentanyl test strips. He said the use of test strips represents a milestone in the effort to fight drug abuse.

I was proud to be in La Crosse to sign important legislation to decriminalize fentanyl testing strips, helping make sure folks can keep themselves and others safe by using the strips to identify if a substance is laced with fentanyl before ever taking it, Evers said. By making these strips available  we can help save more lives and help get folks on a successful path to recovery.

Evers said drug abuse remains a significant public health problem in Wisconsin. He said 1,464 people in Wisconsin died from opioid overdoses in 2022.
JEFFERSON CITY  Missouris attorney general is demanding Hazelwood School District turn over records for an investigation that the district said was based on lies and initially dismissed.

Earlier this week, in a scathing response to Attorney General Andrew Bailey, the district said it would not provide the records until he reframed the request on the districts policies on bullying, law enforcement in schools and diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

After the districts initial response, Bailey sent a notice to the district on Tuesday demanding the records by 5 p.m. the next day. He argued that the district cant dismiss open records laws because it disagree(s) with the investigation.

By Wednesday afternoon, the district said it would indeed turn the records over  aiming to send them by April 15.

Baileys first letter to the district, sent late last week, contained several errors, including the time and date of an off-campus student fight that led to the investigation. In his new letter on Tuesday, he blamed the inaccuracies on publicly available reporting and local media. He did not elaborate, and a spokesperson for the office did not respond to the Post-Dispatch when asked to provide their source for the time and date of the fight.

Instead of directing your ire at a date reference or making ad hominem attacks, you should follow Missouri law and do so immediately, Bailey wrote.

Baileys actions came in the wake of a March 8 beating of a Hazelwood East High School student. Bailey has said he wants to focus on how the districts DEI policies contributed to the fight, which was captured on video and appeared to involve a Black student beating a white student.

Neither police nor the school district have said race was a factor in the fight, which happened about a quarter-mile from the school.

In its first response, sent by lawyer Cindy Reeds Ormsby, the school district accused Bailey of racial bias and elevating political narrative above student safety.

The Missouri chapter of the NAACP also criticized Baileys investigation on Wednesday.

President Nimrod Chapel Jr. said in a statement that read, in part: Attorney General Baileys blind eye to racism when the victim is Black is telling, but the use of the investigative power in his office to lift the harm suffered by a Caucasian student while ignoring the Black victims is nothing short of Jim Crow. It is outrageous that our tax dollars are funding his racist political talking points.
JEFFERSON CITY  The Missouri House unanimously endorsed legislation Wednesday banning discrimination based on natural hair textures and cultural styles.

The proposal, which has been debated but never fully approved in the Capitol for several years, was sent to the Senate for further debate on a 144-0 vote.

This bill is for all the liberty-loving, freedom-defending, ... right-believing patriots in the state of Missouri, said Rep. Raychel Proudie, D-Ferguson, who sponsored the measure.

The legislation is known as the CROWN Act, for Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair.

Similar laws in other states havent proven to be foolproof when it comes to protecting civil rights.

In February, for example, a Texas judge said a school district was allowed to punish a Black student who wears his hair in long locks.

The Barbers Hill School District east of Houston argued the CROWN Act didnt stop administrators from enforcing a school policy prohibiting males from wearing hair that extends beyond eyebrows, earlobes or collars even if its gathered on top of the students head.

Supporters of the measure say a persons hair is tied to many peoples sense of identity, heritage or culture. Studies and reporting have collected a wide range of negative educational, health and financial effects of the discrimination.

Among supporters is St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones.

I know, as the first Black woman to be the mayor of St. Louis, I have the privilege to show children that they are welcome in St. Louis and they should come as they are, Jones wrote in testimony to a House committee.

Others also said the prohibition would address racism.

These bills will reduce discrimination in publicly supported education institutions, wrote Cheryl Adelstein of the Jewish Community Relations Council of St. Louis.

Hair discrimination remains a source of racial injustice with serious economic consequences for Black people. This bill seeks to prohibit discrimination against a person in the workplace or schools because of their natural or protective hairstyle, wrote Marilyn McLeod, president of the League of Women Voters of Missouri.

The measure does allow schools to require the use of hair nets or other coverings in order to secure hair for safety purposes in career or technical training classes.

The legislation is House Bill 1900.
JEFFERSON CITY  The Republican-led Missouri House approved a plan Wednesday requiring state drivers licenses to include a mark designating citizenship status beginning in mid-2025.

As part of an election-year effort by Republicans to make immigration a key issue for voters, the measure is aimed at concerns that an influx of immigrants would lead to noncitizens voting in Missouri elections.

The practice is already prohibited at the federal level. Federal law also requires states to update their voter rolls and remove anyone ineligible, a process that identifies immigrants living in the country illegally.

Were just giving election authorities a tool to ensure only citizens vote in our elections, said the bills sponsor, Rep. Dan Stacy, R-Blue Springs.

The legislation was approved on a 108-46 vote. It now moves to the Senate for further debate.

Democrats condemned the proposal.

Rep. Ingrid Burnett, D-Kansas City, said she was ashamed of her colleagues for targeting people who dont look like us.

I dont understand this appetite and hunger for picking on immigrants. We have a workforce shortage, and we are driving people away who could be helping us to address that, Burnett said.

Rep. Bridget Walsh Moore, a south St. Louis County Democrat, said the proposal was flawed because immigrants have helped boost the regional economy.

She condemned Republicans for fostering an anti-immigration sentiment heading into the 2024 election.

South County is thriving because in the 90s we brought over thousands of Bosnian immigrants, Walsh Moore said.

Republicans insisted the new identifying mark is needed amid claims by former President Donald Trump that Democrats are encouraging migrants to flow into the country illegally in order to register them to vote in the 2024 election.

Rep. Richard West, a St. Charles County Republican, said the legislation could prompt immigrants to move faster to go through the naturalization process.

We need to keep that going, West said.

Rep. Hardy Billington, a Butler County Republican, was among those claiming an immigrant-led crime wave is underway.

So many people are coming here and committing crime, Billington said.

Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, a Republican who is running for governor, last March elected to pull Missouri out of the Electronic Information Registration Information Center, commonly called ERIC, which is designed to improve the accuracy of voting roles.

As a result of the move, Ashcrofts office was the subject of a scathing report issued in January by Republican state Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick. The report said the decision to leave ERIC will cause local election authorities to have less information to identify and correct inaccurate voter records because the office did not have a plan to replace the benefits received from membership in the coalition.

This legislation is House Bill 1413.

Alyse Pfeil of the Post-Dispatch contributed to this report.
JEFFERSON CITY  The Missouri House advanced legislation Wednesday that would exempt remote workers who live outside St. Louis city limits from paying the citys 1% earnings tax.

The measure, which was approved on a 100-47 vote, stems from a lawsuit involving workers who sued after the city denied their earnings tax refunds during the pandemic shutdowns of 2020.

Rep. LaKeySha Bosley, D-St. Louis, said the legislation amounts to an attack on a primary economic driver in the state.

It is just picking on St. Louis. Pick. Pick. Pick, Bosley said.

Were not picking on St. Louis. Were just saying, Follow the damn law, said Rep. Jim Murphy, a south St. Louis County Republican who is sponsoring the proposal.

We just dont agree on this issue, said Rep. Steve Butz, a south St. Louis Democrat.

The Missouri Court of Appeals in St. Louis heard the citys appeal on Feb. 14 of a St. Louis circuit judges ruling that ordered the city to pay back six plaintiffs.

Butz said the legislation should be put on hold until the appeals court rules.

This bill would gravely injure the city of St. Louis, Butz said. If you vote for this you are putting a mortal dagger into the city.

Prior to the pandemic, the city issued refunds to thousands of taxpayers for days traveled and worked outside St. Louis.

But as more employees began working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, Collector of Revenue Gregory F.X. Daly in 2020 began refusing refunds. He said employees were still using remote work software provided by companies based in the city.

The 1% levy currently applies to city residents and nonresidents whose employer is based or operating in the city.

Murphys legislation states that by Sept. 30, the city would be required to establish a process for requesting earnings tax refunds for remote work performed outside the city.

If the city refuses to refund taxes for covered work, the employee would be able to file a lawsuit to recover money owed, along with attorneys fees.

A nonpartisan analysis said the state wasnt able to determine how much remote work was performed by nonresidents. But it said that if all nonresidents worked entirely remote, the city could lose up to $98.3 million each year.

The city reported nearly $219 million in net earnings tax collections last fiscal year, according to the analysis.

The proposal now heads to the Senate for further debate.

The legislation is House Bill 1516.
JEFFERSON CITY  Fake videos designed to persuade Missouri voters would be banned within 90 days of an election under legislation that won broad support in the House Wednesday.

The measure, approved on a 133-5 vote, attempts to rein in the use of deepfake videos unless the content is labeled as being generated by artificial intelligence.

Rep. Ben Baker, R-Neosho, who sponsored the measure, told lawmakers he wants to ensure the prohibitions are in state statutes before voters go to the polls in November.

But Rep. Bridget Walsh Moore, a south St. Louis County Democrat, said the proposed law needs more teeth, including extending the time frame beyond 90 days.

Nonetheless, she was among those voting yes.

I want to make sure we have something on the books, Walsh Moore said.

Deepfakes involve the use of artificial intelligence to create manipulated photos or videos by altering someones face or body.

In addition to requiring labels on AI-generated content, the proposed law would not apply if a broadcaster acknowledges that there may be questions about the authenticity of the images.

Voter rights groups have come out in support of the plan, which now heads to the Senate for further debate.

The legislation comes as Facebook and Instagram announced last month that they are working with industry partners on technical standards that will make it easier to identify images and eventually video and audio generated by artificial intelligence tools.

A push for labeling of AI-generated content was also part of an executive order that President Joe Biden signed in October.

The legislation also contains a provision aimed at banning the use of spoofed or invalid caller ID numbers, which sometimes are used to prey on elderly people.

Last year, attorneys general across the U.S. joined in a lawsuit against a telecommunications company accused of making more than 7.5 billion robocalls to people on the national Do Not Call Registry.

The lawsuit stems from a task force formed in 2022 to investigate and take legal action against telecommunications companies routing volumes of robocall traffic.

The legislation is House Bill 2628.
JEFFERSON CITY  Missouris health department on Wednesday stripped two coveted marijuana micro-licenses tied to an out-of-state company that had been accused of predatory practices and had listed the licenses for resale.

The two micro-licenses, awarded to Seashore Rhythm LLC in Arnold and Frankenstein Enemy LLC in Columbia, were among nine licenses the state agency revoked for not being eligible for a program aimed at helping small and minority-owned businesses break into the lucrative marijuana market.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services announced Wednesday that it had revoked nine of the 48 licenses it had awarded in October after previously questioning the owners eligibility for the program in December.

Questions regarding predatory behavior in the program designed to help marginalized communities have cast a cloud over the states marijuana industry for months.

One license was stripped earlier this month because the owner had a felony offense that disqualified the owner from the program. The state revoked the remaining eight licenses due to numerous violations, including providing false or misleading information to the state.

Throughout the application process, the purported owners of those eight revoked licenses had limited to no knowledge of agreements they had signed onto for the licenses and in some cases did not know the person who applied for the license on their behalf, the state agency said in a news release.

Canna Zoned MLS, a Michigan-based marijuana real estate company, had listed two of the now-stripped micro-licenses for sale in October, The Star previously reported. Jeffrey Yatooma, the companys owner, is listed as the main contact for 104 of the more than 1,000 marijuana micro-license applications submitted to the state, records show.

Yatoomas company had come under fire for offering to pay eligible people to enter lotteries awarding licenses for underserved groups in Missouri, Illinois and Maryland, The Star, Missouri Independent and the Chicago Sun-Times previously reported.

The companys tactics, as well as its attempt to sell two licenses in Missouri, had sparked outrage from some state lawmakers, including from Sen. Karla May, a St. Louis Democrat and candidate for U.S. Senate, who in an October letter to DHSS demanded an investigation.

Amy Moore, the director of the agencys division of cannabis regulation, in a statement appeared to confirm that some of the licenses were stripped due to predatory practices.

While owning and operating a license may include contracting for management services or consulting services, the lack of knowledge, control, agency or decision-making demonstrated by the individuals whose information was used to meet eligibility does not meet even the most generous interpretation of owning and operating a business, Moore said in the statement.

An attorney for Canna Zoned MLS did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

On top of the two connected to Canna Zoned MLS, the remaining licenses that were stripped were tied to Cannabis Business Advisors, an Arizona-based consulting firm. Maxime Kot, the president and part owner of the company, is listed as the main contact for six of the nine revoked licenses.

One of the licenses connected to Cannabis Business Advisors, Potluck THC LLC, applied to start a marijuana dispensary in Kansas City but was not registered as a business in Missouri, The Star previously reported. The company registered with the state 12 days after The Stars report, listing its home state as Arizona, records show.

Kot did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Monday.

The final micro-license that the department revoked was awarded to Higher Love KC, LLC, which applied to start a marijuana wholesale  or cultivation  facility in Kansas City. The company also did not respond to an email on Monday.

The state in December had initially questioned the eligibility of 11 licenses, but said on Wednesday that two of those license-holders had demonstrated that they were owned by people who met the criteria for the program.

Missouri in October awarded 48 marijuana micro-licenses divided across the states eight congressional districts after the agency conducted a random lottery.

One of the rules for the program required applicants to apply for and obtain only one micro-license to operate a marijuana facility. A Joplin man was denied a refund on his $1,500 application fee for violating this rule.

The program was designed to help lower income individuals and minority groups break into the market, which has been dominated by large companies. Applicants had to meet one of several requirements, including having a net worth less than $250,000 or having a prior marijuana-related charge.
Famed American artist and sculptor Richard Serra, known for turning curving walls of rusting steel and other malleable materials into large-scale pieces of outdoor artwork that are now dotted across the world, died Tuesday at his home in Long Island, New York. He was 85.

His Twain, featuring slightly curved pieces of steel arranged to form a skewed triangle along the Gateway Mall in downtown St. Louis, has been the subject of controversy for decades since its installation in 1982.

Considered one of his generations most preeminent sculptors, the San Francisco native originally studied painting at Yale University but turned to sculpting in the 1960s, inspired by trips to Europe.

His death was confirmed Tuesday night by his lawyer, John Silberman, whose firm is based in New York. He said the cause of death was pneumonia.

Known by his colleagues as the poet of iron, Serra became world-renowned for his large-scale steel structures, such as monumental arcs, spirals and ellipses. He was closely identified with the minimalist movement of the 1970s.

Serras work started to gain attention in 1981, the year before Twain was installed, when he installed a 120-foot-long and 12-foot-high curving wall of raw steel that splits the Federal Plaza in New York City. The sculpture, called Tilted Arc, generated swift backlash and a fierce demand that it should be removed. The sculpture was later dismantled, but Serras popularity in the New York art scene had been cemented.

Twain, which Emily Rauh Pulitzer helped bring to St. Louis, was the also the subject of derision.

If I could do it, its not art, the Post-Dispatch columnist Bill McClellan wrote. For instance, I do not understand the Picasso sculpture in Chicago, but I could not do it. So its art. But if I had a crane, I could put eight slabs of steel onto a vacant lot.

Alderman Freeman Bosley Sr. called Twain the big iron sheets.

Another local Serra piece, Joe, commissioned in memory of Joseph Pulitzer, is a plate of hot rolled steel forming a spiral, resting in the courtyard of the Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts in St. Louis.

Outside the St. Louis Art Museum, Serras To Encircle Base Plate Hexagram, Right Angles Inverted is on display.

In 2005, eight major works by Serra measuring were installed at the Guggenheim Museum in Spain. Carmen Jimenez, the exhibition organizer, said Serra was beyond doubt the most important living sculptor.

Before his turn to sculpting, Serra worked in steel foundries to help finance his education at the Berkeley and Santa Barbara campuses of the University of California. He then went on to Yale, where he graduated in 1964.
HEBBARIYE, Lebanon  A series of Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed 16 people and a barrage of rockets fired by the militant group Hezbollah killed one Israeli man, making Wednesday the deadliest day in more than five months of fighting along the border.

Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, concerns have grown about further escalation along the Israel-Lebanon frontier. Tens of thousands of people on both sides have been displaced by the violence.

Wednesday's Israeli strikes targeted a Lebanese Sunni political and militant organization, the Islamic Group, which has joined the Shiite militant group Hezbollah in its fight against Israel. Two Hezbollah fighters were also killed, as was a local commander with the Amal Movement, another Shiite group.

The first Israeli airstrike hit a paramedic center affiliated with the Islamic Group, killing seven of its members in the village of Hebbariye after midnight.

Muheddine Qarhani, head of the Emergency and Relief Corps, told reporters at the scene that the paramedic center had been set up late last year. He said he was surprised a medical group had been targeted.

Israel said it killed an Islamic Group member involved in attacks against Israel, as well as several other militants.

Maj. Gen. Ori Gordin, the head of the Israeli armys Northern Command, said Israel was operating against the Islamic Group and had struck a large number of operatives and was also conducting very significant strikes against Hezbollah.

We are at war. We have been at war for almost half a year now, and it doesnt end with Hezbollah, he told a gathering of commanders.

Hours after the airstrike, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for firing rockets into the northern Israeli city of Kiryat Shmona and a military base. Hezbollah said it was retaliating for the deadly attack on the paramedic center.

Rescue services in Israel said a 25-year-old man was killed when a direct hit sparked a fire in an industrial park in Kiryat Shmona. Footage from the scene showed thick black smoke pouring out of a building.

Another person was lightly injured. Around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel, according to the Israeli military.

Nada Khleif was in her small bakery in Hebbariyeh when the strike heavily damaged her business and a nearby apartment, where two of her relatives were unharmed.

The bakery was my only means of living. It is gone now, she said.

The Lebanese news agency said Israel bombed the village of Teir Harfa after sunset, killing five, and a second strike killed four people as paramedics gathered near a cafe in the coastal town of Naqoura.

Hezbollahs Islamic Health Society said two of its paramedics were killed in Teir Harfa.

The Islamic Risala Scout Association, also a paramedic group, said one of its members was killed in the strike on Naqoura.

The Amal movement of Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri said the strike on Naquora killed one of its local commanders, identified as Ali Mahdi. Hezbollah said two of its fighters were killed without saying where they were struck.

The near-daily violence has mostly been confined to the area along the border, and international mediators are scrambling to prevent an all-out war. The fighting has killed nine civilians and 11 soldiers in Israel. Nearly 240 Hezbollah fighters and about 40 civilians have died in Lebanon.

Hezbollah began launching rockets toward Israel on Oct. 8, the day after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel in a surprise attack that sparked the crushing war in Gaza.

Lidman contributed from Tel Aviv, Israel. Associated Press writer Bassem Mroue in Beirut contributed to this report.

Updated at 5:07 p.m.
Sometimes history is shaped by monumental forces. Sometimes history is shaped by chance and luck. In the 1970s, Phyllis Schlafly played a pivotal role in defeating the Equal Rights Amendment. But as I explain in my forthcoming book, The Random Factor, Schlaflys involvement almost didnt happen.

Congress first debated the ERA in 1923. It was then introduced into every Congressional session until 1970, but routinely failed to reach a floor vote.

That changed in 1972, when the amendment was finally approved by the House and Senate and sent to the states for ratification. It stated, Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.

Schlafly believed passage of the ERA would cost women certain traditional privileges. But by the time she fully engaged in the fight, the amendment had been ratified by 30 states, needing only eight more to become law.

Schlaflys opposition proved decisive. Her ability to raise concerns and fears, and to get those concerns heard in a wider context, was widely seen as the key component in turning the tide against the amendment, which eventually fell three states short of final ratification.

As political scientist Jane Mansbridge wrote, Many people who followed the struggle over the ERA believed  rightly in my view  that the Amendment would have been ratified by 1975 or 1976 had it not been for Phyllis Schlaflys early and effective effort to organize political opponents.

When I interviewed Schlafly in St. Louis in 2011, she was 86. We talked about a wide range of issues, but most surprising was the fact that her involvement with the ERA was the result of a completely chance event. It was a twist of fate that would change the direction of the country.

One day in November 1971, a friend of Schlaflys in Connecticut called from out of the blue. Would Phyllis be interested in speaking at the local public library? Schlafly said shed consider it, and suggested that she could address the strategic balance of arms between the United States and Russia  a long-standing area of interest.

No, no, the friend said. I dont want to hear about that. We want to hear about the Equal Rights Amendment.

I havent looked at it, Schlafly replied, and I dont know whether Im for it or against it.

Ill send you a packet of material, the friend responded, and I know which side you will be on.

The friend sent the materials. Schlafly spoke at the library, which in turn jump-started her efforts to spearhead the opposition to the ERA.

But what might have happened if Schlafly hadnt received that phone call?

I asked her just that. She said that in all likelihood she would have continued writing and speaking about the strategic balance of arms and would not have gotten involved with the ERA  or if she had, it would have been too late to prevent its ratification.

Could someone else have played a similar role in halting the ERA? Possibly. Would that person have been as effective as Phyllis Schlafly? Unlikely.

What we do know is that Schlafly played a key role in bending history. Had that Connecticut friend not phoned when she did, our nation and politics might look very different. They certainly would look different with respect to the ERA, which would have become the 27th amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

(The actual 27th amendment, ratified in 1992, requires that any salary changes for members of Congress dont take effect until after the next House election. No amendment has been ratified since.)

It is not an exaggeration to view the defeat of the ERA as an initial step in the countrys move toward a more conservative direction that has continued over the last 50 years, and that a random telephone call set in motion that movement.

Fittingly, one of Phyllis Schlaflys last public appearances was in support of Donald Trumps successful run for the presidency in 2016. At a rally in St. Louis on March 11, 2016, the 91-year old Schlafly gave her ringing support.

A single telephone call from 45 years prior was in all likelihood the reason that Schlafly was asked to give her final conservative endorsement and share the stage with the future president of the United States. In fact, that telephone call may have indirectly helped pave the way for the rise of Donald Trump.

The contours of American society are shaped by many forces. But never underestimate the role of chance. In the end, history was changed not by a monumental action or event, but by a purely chance occurrence that has continued to ripple throughout the social and political contours of American society.
MAZOMANIE  Garage sale season here in northwestern Dane County is about to kick off in a big way, just like it has for the past 20 springs.

Bath towels can be had for $1. Same for picture frames, pliers and screwdrivers, plastic watering cans and vases, some clear, others made of green glass.

Batting helmets are $5 apiece. Just a few feet away is a collection of music boxes with price tags ranging from $2 to $4.

Need a trier to pull a plug from a wheel of cheese? It's here for 50 cents. Plastic statues of the baby Jesus, Mother Mary and Joseph for an outdoor nativity are $30 each.

Thousands of items have once again filled not a garage but Holy Family Hall at St. Barnabas Catholic Church in this village of 1,768 people. Most of it comes from outside of Mazomanie, donated by estate sale companies and individuals.

What continues to amaze is that come this fall this church and its small group of dedicated volunteers will hold another sale with all fresh inventory. Anything that doesn't sell this spring will be donated to St. Vincent de Paul stores, homeless shelters in Madison and to the 2nd Chapter Resale store in Mazomanie. Some stuff is also put on the curb and vanishes quickly.

But there is no worry about filling the hall for the October sale. People have plenty of stuff to donate and organizers don't expect that to change anytime soon. And if you're thinking of donating to the spring sale, you're too late. The hall is stuffed.

"It's such a throw-away society. This kind of helps the landfills," said Brenda Pulvermacher, 60, who has been volunteering since the sale's inception. "It's about passing it forward."

This year's sale is set from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 4, and 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Friday, April 5. On the final day, Saturday, April 6, from 8 a.m. to noon, everything is half-price. The real bargains and antiques will likely be picked over by then: The line starts forming around 6 a.m. on opening day.

The hope is to raise more than $10,000 this spring. Money has been used in the past for projects such as repairing a gas main under the church. Donations are also made to the Knights of Columbus and the Council of Catholic Women.

The sale also helps the church remain viable as congregations shrink and parishes merge, with priests serving multiple locations. Mary, Mother of Mercy Pastorate, consists of St. Barnabas, St. Aloysius in Sauk City, St. Norbert in Roxbury and St. Mary Health of the Sick in Merrimac. Most Masses at St. Barnabas draw about 50 people, said Fred Beuthin, a retired farmer who, with his wife, Virginia, have been members of the church for almost 45 years.

"We're solvent, and the sale helps with that," Fred Beuthin, 73, said. "It's really like a big social gathering."

I first discovered the sale in spring 2022. Photographer Amber Arnold and I had been on assignment in Spring Green, and we make it a habit to scrounge garage sales during our travels. We stopped at St. Barnabas, just off Highway 14, on our way back to Madison. We were blown away by the sheer volume of items and the crowds of people. A Facebook reminder prompted me to check out this year's event.

Historic congregation

The first Catholic services in Mazomanie were held in private homes in the 1840s and 1850s before the first church building was constructed in 1856. The current church was built of sandstone block in 1890, but its interior was destroyed by fire in 1930 and then rebuilt. Holy Family Hall was constructed on the back of the church in 1966 as classroom and event space. Now it's synonymous with the twice-yearly sales.

There are tables filled with glassware, bins of shovels and rakes, seasonal decorations, tools, fishing and camping gear, bedding, kitchenware, lamps, furniture and a few antiques. Out in the hallway there are racks of shoes and coats, shelves of purses, and bins of blue jeans and pants, shorts, blouses and sweatshirts, all for $2 each unless otherwise marked. There are even a couple of saddles and a few plants.

Volunteers have spent the past five weeks prepping the hall for the sale, which includes picking up donations, washing things that are dirty, assigning prices and then setting up more than 50 banquet tables on which to segregate the items by theme. Earlier sales only raised $2,000 to $3,000 each but required people to dig for items in boxes and bins. The more organized effort has paid off: Sales have doubled and even tripled.

"I do think there are a lot of memories here," Pulvermacher said as she surveyed the vast and varied inventory. "Every room in the house is covered."

They even have a head start on the October sale. Organizers were contacted a few weeks ago by a man who had sold a house and wanted to get rid of much of its contents. But with the spring sale stocked to its gills, there was no space. Thankfully, Rev. Osvaldo Briones, the parish priest, had his car in the shop for repairs. His rental truck, however, doesn't fit in his garage so the donated items have a temporary home.

"If we would have said 'no,' all of that stuff would have went in the landfill. And it's good stuff," Virginia Beuthin said. "This sale helps a lot of people and it helps our church."

Photos: St. Barnabas Catholic Church estate sale in Mazomanie
When the history of the Trump era is written, some key chapters will have to be left to the psychologists  not just regarding former President Donald Trump himself (a tall enough order, psychologically speaking) but regarding those in his ever-shifting inner circle.

How is it that so many formally self-respecting political figures have been willing to degrade the norms of democracy, and even debase themselves and their families, in order to help spread MAGA poison they know is dangerous?

We know they know because, with shocking regularity, their slavish loyalty to Trump is rewarded with summary expulsion from MAGA-world  frequently followed by pathetic media rehabilitation tours in which they desperately try to regain some glimmer of credibility by renouncing their Trumpian lies.

Ronna McDaniel, the recently ousted head of the Republican National Committee, is the latest subject (dont call her a victim) of this cycle. McDaniels new gig as a well-paid NBC political commentator is foundering badly because the networks top anchors are balking at working with someone who now all but admits she has been lying to America since the 2020 election.

Fair and square, he won, she says now of President Joe Biden, after three years of denying his valid victory.

Shes right, finally. But as with all those other MAGA refugees looking for redemption, why should anyone listen to anything she says now?

Recall that McDaniel used to go by Ronna Romney McDaniel, incorporating her maiden name. According to The Washington Post, Trump in 2017 asked McDaniel to stop publicly using Romney  apparently because of the fact that the name was shared by her uncle, Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah, who was among the few congressional Republicans willing to openly criticize Trump.

That Trump would make a party official drop her family name in service to his own political pettiness isnt surprising. That is exactly the Donald Trump we all know. But the curious fact that McDaniel agreed to it adds useful context for what came next.

As RNC chair during Trumps presidency, McDaniel essentially served two masters: Trump himself and the broader GOP. But that obviously wasnt going to fly with Trump.

So McDaniel was always among the first and most forceful defenders of Trumps various offenses against political norms and decency during his term, even when those offenses violated her partys principles and damaged its legacy. The RNC decision in 2020 to forgo approval of an actual campaign platform, simply issuing a statement of support for Trump instead, says all anyone needs to know about McDaniels loyalties.

After Trump lost the 2020 election, McDaniel was instrumental in attempts to undermine public confidence in those legitimate results so Trump could remain in office.

McDaniel promoted false, ultimately debunked allegations of election fraud in her home state of Michigan. She participated in a phone call in which Trump himself tried to pressure local officials there not to certify election results. She even backed an RNC resolution calling the mob attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, legitimate political discourse.

Predictably, McDaniels Luca Brasi-like loyalty was tossed aside by Trump the second he decided this year to fully consolidate his power over the RNC by getting his daughter-in-law Lara Trump installed as co-chair (where she promptly began pushing for the party to cover Trumps astronomical legal bills).

On Sunday, the new, post-MAGA McDaniel was unveiled on NBCs Meet the Press. Now under a reported $300,000 contract to appear on various NBC News platforms as a commentator, she plainly admitted to interviewer Kristen Welker that Biden fairly won the 2020 election  an uncontroverted fact that she was still publicly denying as late as last year.

And all those democracy-undermining lies she told for three years, claiming Trump was robbed of his rightful second term?

When youre the RNC chair, you  you kind of take one for the whole team, right? she said. Now I get to be a little bit more myself.

I was just following orders, in other words. Consider the historical precedents for that excuse.

NBC/MSNBC marquee anchors including Rachel Maddow, Chuck Todd, Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski quickly savaged the networks decision in an extraordinary on-air rebellion. By Tuesday, there were rumors the network was making plans to drop McDaniel.

NBC officials have defended McDaniels hiring as an attempt to balance the networks traditionally liberal-leaning platforms with more conservative voices. Its a laudable goal but one that in this case misses the crucial credibility problems that McDaniel and most other MAGA alum bring to the table.

As Todd put it, I dont know what to believe of what McDaniel says now, given the lies shes promoted in the past.

McDaniel joins a long list of former Trump insiders  ex-Vice President Mike Pence, ex-UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, ex-Defense Secretary James Mattis, ex-national security adviser John Bolton and many others  who held their tongues at some of Trumps worst outrages while they were part of his inner sanctum, finally speaking out only later, from exile.

Those who risked everything to speak out when they were still in a position where it mattered  excommunicated Republican former congresswoman Liz Cheney is the ultimate example  are few and far between. Their courage should shame McDaniel and all the other MAGA chameleons out there.
March 27, 2024: NATO has sent the Ukrainians a number of artillery items, including guns, ammunition, and fire location radars. The ammunition included special types of 155mm shells. The most useful and economical accessory for 155mm shells was the PGK (Projectile Guidance Kit) 155mm fuze. The PGK fuze turns an unguided 155mm shell into a GPS/INS guided one. These were found to be exceptionally useful in Syria and Iraq and, in mid-2017, the U.S. Army ordered another 5,600 PGK fuzes and has been building a stockpile. This enabled the U.S. to send Ukraine large numbers of PGK fuzes. While armies still use unguided artillery shells for situations that dont require precise accuracy, the PGK fuze is available to quickly turn any standard unguided shell into a guided smart shell. Many PGK fuzes were sent to Ukraine. It was found that PGK fuzes worked well particularly with the Zusana-2 8x8 155mm self-propelled artillery systems that western neighbor Slovakia purchased and then sent to Ukraine. Zusana-2 is highly automated with a modern fire control system so it can, in less than a minute, halt, fire one or two PGK equipped shells with the location data provided by FireFinder to destroy Russian artillery, and then move on before being targeted itself. Russia too has counterfire radars and guided shells, but no combination of radar and guided shells quick enough to catch Zuzanna-2s when it is employing such shoot and scoot tactics. The Zuzanna-2 armor offers some protection from shell fragments and blast effects on equipment and its three-man crew.

Ukraine also received Excalibur GPS guided 155mm shells from several NATO countries. Excalibur is more accurate than a shell with a PGK fuze but a lot more expensive. A PGK fuze will give a 50 meter CEP at all ranges a shell can reach versus 170 meters for an unguided shell at maximum range. The Excalibur is dealing 6 to 10 meters at all ranges. For unguided shells, accuracy gets worse the farther you fire it. Excalibur achieved the same results as 40 unguided shells at maximum range. For example, when you fire an unguided 155mm shell as far as 17 kilometers, the shell has a CEP, or circular error probable of up to 170 meters. A shell with a PGK fuze shell has a 50 meter CEP at all ranges. That is a major improvement over unguided shells but still not as precise enough for some missions. Currently the $200,000 GPS guided Excalibur shell will land within ten meters of the target. A shell equipped with a $20,000 PGK fuze can land within 50 meters with a new version being developed that will achieve 30 meter CEP. The GLMLRS missiles fired from Himars vehicles have a three meter CEP.

Ukraine received several older FireFinder (AN/TPQ-36/37) radars that were used to locate enemy artillery that had fired shells at targets within about twenty kilometers of the radar. The location of the enemy artillery was passed to Ukrainian artillery which fired one or two guided shells at the target, or a larger number of unguided shells. The guided shells were much more effective because enemy artillery would quickly move if they were being hit by artillery shells. Soon after the first shell landed, the enemy artillery was gone, unless it was damaged or destroyed by the first shells to land. This tactic of firing back at enemy artillery is called counter-battery fire and is the best way to reduce enemy artillery capabilities.

The key to counter battery fire is the specialized radar that detects the location of enemy artillery. There is a problem, however, in that you cannot realistically test the effectiveness of artillery detection radars. An example of this was the American FireFinder radar. This system has had a lot of problems in the past. These were discovered after the United States went to war after the 2001 terror attacks.

The war initially took place in Afghanistan and Iraq. FireFinder had to overcome a bad reputation it acquired when it first came to Iraq. That was often for failing to detect incoming mortar fire. These were problems that were supposed to be fixed. FireFinder was developed in the 1970s, based on Vietnam experience with enemy mortar and rocket attacks but didn't get a real combat workout until after 2001.

Both the old and new FireFinders are radar systems which, when they spot an incoming shell, calculate where it came from and transmit the location to a nearby artillery unit, which then fires on where the mortar is or was. This process takes 3-4 minutes or less, for experienced troops. FireFinder worked as advertised but got little use under combat conditions until U.S. troops entered Iraq. After that FireFinder was very effective and heavily used. Too heavily used. There were not a lot of spare parts stockpiled for FireFinder and several hundred million dollars-worth had to be quickly ordered. The manufacturer also introduced some new components that were more reliable and easier to maintain.

There were still problems. Some FireFinders failed to catch incoming fire because the enemy was using tactics that fooled the radar. For example, in Iraq American bases were generally on higher ground than the mortars firing at them. Putting bases on the high ground enables you to watch more of the surrounding terrain, but FireFinder needs a line-of-sight to get a good fix on the firing weapon's position. If the mortar was too far below the radar, FireFinder could not accurately spot where the fire was coming from.

Another problem was that if the mortar was too close, FireFinder was much less likely to quickly determine where the fire was coming from. Enemy mortar teams got as close as they could before firing. This still made the mortar teams vulnerable to counterattack by coalition troops but not the immediate, in a few minutes, artillery fire that FireFinder can make happen under the right conditions.

At first, the army was going to halt further upgrades on FireFinder, which, after all, was developed back in the 1970s, and begin developing the TPQ-53, a new system that can better deal with the kinds of problems encountered in Iraq. But FireFinder had been so useful that new upgrades were pursued anyway, while work continued on the TPQ-53. These upgrades have also been made available to other users of FireFinder including allies in the Middle East Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. FireFinders are still doing most of the work out there, and TPQ-53 wont replace a significant number of them until the end of the decade.

The AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel entered service in 2007 and over 300 of them are currently in use. Sentinel is light and compact enough to be trailer mounted and towed or mounted in the back of a 4x4 truck along with a generator. Sentinel can be ready for action in less than 15 minutes and ready to be moved again in less than ten. Some Sentinel users are East Europe NATO members and Ukraine received Sentinels, which quickly received lots of use in combat.

FireFinder and Sentinel were designed to operate together, merging their data into a single display of all aerial and ground-based threats detected and being tracked, American troops trained Ukrainians personnel on how to use both systems. Ukraine was also using its own joint operation software for the two systems. Ukrainians proved more adept at dealing with systems like this than the Russians, and used FireFinder/Sentinel to establish widespread protection against Russian low-altitude threats. After all, one Sentinel system can monitor a circular area 150 kilometers in diameter.
March 27, 2024: The Russian Black Sea fleet has disappeared from the Black Sea. Russian warships are still in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov extension in the northeast, and the more distant naval base at Novorossiysk, but rarely move out of port, even for a few days. Current ships in the Black Sea Fleet include six guided missile cruisers, one corvette, seven diesel attack submarines, seven landing ships and dozens of High-speed landing craft. sea-going minesweepers, anti-saboteur boats, missile boats and anti-submarine ships.

What keeps these Russian Navy ships from going to sea is the very real threat of attack by Ukrainian USVs (Unmanned Surface Vehicles), also known as drones. There are several models, including 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 significant damage to the bridge. MAGURA carries 320 kg of explosives while Mamai carries 450 kg. These USVs are no longer used just for delivering explosives against a target, as 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 coast, 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 subsurface 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 the Kerch Strait including the eighteen kilometer long Kerch Strait bridge, which has been repeatedly attacked by Ukrainian USVs. As of early 2024 the bridge is unusable and under repair. When repairs are finished, the Ukrainians will attack the bridge again. The Kerch Strait bridge is a vital supply line for Russian forces in the Crimean Peninsula. Sending supplies by sea is no longer practical because of the risk of attack by Ukrainian USVs. This leaves the Kerch Strait bridge and when that is out of commission, the only supply route is a road from Russia that is under observation by the Ukrainians, who can attack supply movements at any time.

Apparently the only effective protection from USV attacks is the installation of multiple 25mm or 30mm automatic cannon gun mounts that are automated and use advanced AI and sensors. The guns must be able to point downward towards waters close to the hull. This makes it possible for the autocannon to fire on UAVs that get very close to the ship. No one has installed such a system yet though the Russian Navy might be working on something like this.
Startup Genome and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Announce the Joint Development of Hypergrowth Tokyo, With the First Cohort Launching March 26th, 2024

SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / March 26, 2024 / Startup Genome and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government are excited to introduce Global Hypergrowth Tokyo, a global late-stage scaling program. The inaugural Tokyo cohort launches today, March 26th 2024. The initiative aims to propel the best Tokyo tech companies into successful global commercialization and expansion into international target markets.





Hypergrowth focuses on high-growth startups, recognizing them as drivers of economic growth and competitiveness, and creators of sustainable jobs and societal wellbeing. The program addresses a significant support gap for fast-growing scaleups, as most efforts traditionally concentrate on early-stage startups. Hypergrowth acknowledges the challenges for startups expanding globally, offering a solution to navigate global expansion through introductions to deep overseas networks. As the primary challenge for scaleups is their limited access to executives with scaling and global commercialization expertise, Hypergrowth will provide 22 companies from Tokyo with access to global mentors, expert scaling advice from leading executives, go to market support and connections to potential new customers and investors as they significantly increase their international expansion capabilities.

"TOKYO SUTEAM has concluded agreements with 50 ecosystem builders in order to achieve the goal of '10x10x10' (10x the number of unicorns from Tokyo, 10x the number of startups in Tokyo, and 10x the number of collaborative projects with Tokyo Metropolitan Government, in 5 years) as stated in 'Global Innovation with STARTUPS'. The agreement is designed to support the implementation of a wide variety of startup support measures. We are very pleased to announce the launch of Startup Genome's Global Hypergrowth Tokyo Program as one of the projects under this agreement. This program will connect participating startups with mentors and advisors overseas and provide them with regular advice to accelerate their entry and development in the global market, including the US and European markets. We look forward to this program to help us achieve our goal of "10x the number of unicorns from Tokyo". We also look forward to the further globalization of Tokyo's startup ecosystem as a result of this program," shares Chieto Misumi, Director, New Ventures Support Section Commerce and Industry Division Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs, Tokyo Metropolitan Government (in charge of TOKYO SUTEAM)

The companies selected are some of the most exciting scaleups in Tokyo, including many deep tech, healthtech and AI companies. The cohort has raised close to 100mn USD in total in funding as they look to expand overseas, with customers based in the U.S, Europe, and Asia.

See full list of Companies below:

Contact Information

Franzis Walther

Project Management & PR, Startup Genome

[email protected]

SOURCE: Startup Genome

View the original press release on newswire.com.
LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Global real estate advisor CBRE has today announced that Sustainability leader, David Maguire, has been appointed Head of Occupier Sustainability & ESG, Continental Europe.

In this new role, David will be responsible for leading CBRE's Sustainability services offering for its occupier clients across Continental Europe. He will focus on expanding the suite of services the company delivers, in order to address the rapidly developing Sustainability and ESG needs of corporate real estate.

Having previously worked in the Occupier ESG team in the UK, supporting an extensive network of corporate clients including Marks & Spencer, GSK, and Maersk, David will now be part of the Continental Europe Sustainability and ESG team, led by Ludovic Chambe. He will work closely with Einar Schiefloe, Head of Occupier Services, Continental Europe & Nordics, as well as our 270 Sustainability and ESG experts, operating across 22 European countries, driving the transformational strategy and implementation of Sustainability solutions to fulfil clients' environmental and social ambitions.

David brings a wealth of experience with Occupier clients, enhancing our ability to advise companies on how to navigate future challenges and opportunities. He's an inspiring advocate for Sustainability and a leader who has the ability to translate what's coming into tangible actions for the here and now. I'm hugely excited at the prospect of working with David and driving real change together. Ludovic Chambe, Head of ESG & Sustainability Services, Continental Europe at CBRE

I am delighted to be joining the team in Europe, helping the organisations we work with to meet their Sustainability targets through real estate; and doing so at a scale which means tangible impact on global Sustainability goals and combatting climate change. This new role brings the opportunity to continue to collaborate closely with our global occupier community whilst expanding our Sustainability offering in the ambitious European context, where our in-country teams have an incredible breadth of skills and expertise we can capitalise on. David Maguire, Head of Occupier Sustainability & ESG, Continental Europe, CBRE

Read more about this appointment here

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from CBRE Group, Inc. on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: CBRE Group, Inc.

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cbre-group-inc

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: CBRE Group, Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / ePayResources presented three awards at its 28th annual conference, ePayConnect 2024, held March 11 - 13 at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Studios in Orlando. The conference served as the official launch of the celebration of ePayResources' 50th anniversary.

Tim Thorson, AAP, CTP, Senior Vice President, Payments Risk, Regions Bank, was presented the Richard R. Oliver Leadership in Payments Award for his exemplary leadership in the advancement, implementation, and promotion of electronic payments. The recipient is a payments ambassador whose work has contributed to the efficiency, security, and growth of the industry.

Tim's impact on the payments industry is exemplified by his long-time leadership and service on multiple Payments Association boards, including ePayResources and its predecessor EastPay, and multiple terms chairing Nacha's Rules and Operations committee, its Risk Management Advisory Group, and the AAP Blue Ribbon Panel. A champion of risk management, Tim is known as a patient mentor whose engaging and understandable approach has helped Payments Associations craft innovations that benefit their member financial institutions.

"I am honored to receive this award, named for someone who was a role model for me and many of my peers throughout my career," said Thorson. "I have truly enjoyed the opportunities presented by ePayResources and other industry stakeholders to work together in support of the growth and safety of electronic payments."

The Innovation in Payments Award was presented to Booshan Rengachari, Founder and CEO of Finzly, a Charlotte, North Carolina-based financial technology company specializing in payments and banking solutions for financial institutions. This award honors an individual, team, or organization that has demonstrated significant achievement in developing or implementing innovative payments solutions or technologies that facilitate industry adoption of emerging payments solutions, including RTP and FedNow. The recipient is a payments influencer who has broken ground inside or outside their organization to propel industry advancement.

Booshan founded Finzly in 2012 with a vision of empowering financial institutions with a modern, core-independent alternative to help them stay competitive and relevant in the fintech-driven world of international banking and payments. Booshan serves on the Board of Directors of the U.S. Faster Payments Council, where he advocates for the implementation of secure and faster payment capabilities.

"I am very grateful for this recognition from ePayResources," said Rengachari. "Finzly has grown from a humble beginning, and I am proud of the positive impact we have had on enabling innovation in the payments industry."

Tim Quisenberry, AAP, President, ePayAdvisors, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Tim has over 28 years of experience in the payments industry and joined ePayResources, then SWACHA, in 2006. Since that time his responsibilities have included directing the association's member services, education, and marketing teams, and leading the advisory services subsidiary, ePayAdvisors (formerly SWACHA Services Corporation), for the last 16 years.

During his 18 years with the association, Tim has participated in numerous industry councils, committees, and workgroups, including the Federal Reserve Bank's Faster Payments Task Force, FS-ISAAC, and Nacha's Government Relations Advisory Group and Risk Management Advisory Group. Tim is a genuine and committed relationship builder who has supported the success of ePayResources' member organizations through his passion for helping them understand the importance of building robust payment strategies and risk management controls.

Prior to joining ePayResources, Tim served as managing partner of a Richardson-based payments consulting firm and senior vice president for a payments software development firm. He is retiring effective April 1, 2024.

"I am deeply honored by this award," said Quisenberry. "I've been very fortunate to work for an organization where I feel truly passionate about the mission and the value provided to our member financial institutions and businesses."

About ePayResources: ePayResources has been empowering financial institutions and businesses to be informed, compliant, and competitive in payments for 50 years. As an innovative Payments Association and a founding sponsor of the Center for Payments, we provide emerging and legacy payments expertise, professional development, and industry leadership through education, publications, compliance support, risk management, and advocacy. Our staff of nationally accredited payments and risk professionals provides situational analysis and response guidance on our Payments Answerline" and keeps you informed of industry developments that impact operational processing, fraud detection, and your bottom line. Our subsidiary, ePayAdvisors", provides payments audits, risk assessments, and consulting. Visit epayresources.org and follow us on X (@ePayResources_), LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Contact Information

Anne-Marie Leake

VP, Communications

[email protected]

804-363-5784

SOURCE: ePayResources

View the original press release on newswire.com.
AdMeTech Foundation's 15th Annual Prostate Cancer Awareness Day Highlights Massachusetts Model of National Leadership in Public Awareness, Medical Education, Research, Clinical Care and Equity

BOSTON,MA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / AdMeTech Foundation presents the 15th Annual Prostate Cancer Awareness Day. Senate President Pro Tempore William Brownsberger and Representative Gerry Cassidy are hosting this event. AdMeTech Foundation's President Faina Shtern, M.D., and Thomas Satham, Director of Operations and Health Policy, serve as Masters of Ceremony.

This event has brought together Governor Maura Healey, Senate President Karen Spilka, Speaker of the House Ronald Mariano, Senate Majority Leader Cynthia Creem, Senate Majority Whip Mike Rush, Senator Pavel Payano, Representative Bud Williams, Chair of the Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights and Inclusion and Chair of the Black and Latino Caucus, Representatives Carlos Gonzalez and Russell Holmes, Past Chairs of the Black and Latino Caucus, Representative Marjorie Decker, Chair of the Public Health Committee, and leaders of medicine, advocacy and community organizations.

15th Annual Prostate Cancer Awareness Day will honor the memory of two prostate cancer survivors - Representative Stephen Kulik and Mr. Naakh Vysoky. Representative Kulik served as a Host of this event and was a key state's champion in the fight against prostate cancer between 2009 and his retirement in 2019. Mr. Vysoky was a lifelong warrior for the underprivileged - the elderly, the ethnic and racial minorities, and the immigrants; his work was recognized by the U.S. Congress and multiple Boston organizations.

Prostate cancer, striking one in eight men, is the most common male malignancy and the second most common cause of cancer deaths in men. Prostate cancer is a leading health disparity, causing more than two times higher mortality in Black men compared to White men. Elected officials will address prostate cancer as a public health priority for all men and a leading disparity in men with Black, Hispanic and Latino heritage, who are at higher risk of delayed diagnosis, poor quality of clinical care and death.

Advocates and prostate cancer survivors will discuss the impact of prostate cancer on men, their families and communities.

Leaders of medicine will review cutting-edge advances in clinical care and research, transforming screening, diagnosis and treatment, improving survival and reducing health disparities. Prostate cancer experts from AdMeTech Foundation, Mass General Brigham, UMass Memorial Health, and Beth Israel Lahey Health will invite Massachusetts men aged 40 and older to take part in the Prostate Cancer Equity Program. This groundbreaking program expedites access to the latest advances in patient care and supports men at every step of their medical journey. Supporting organizations include Massachusetts' NAACP Branches and Latino Health Insurance Program, mobilizing the participation of Black, Hispanic and Latino men.

Annual Prostate Cancer Awareness Day has been critical for setting up a historic precedent by the Massachusetts General Court in recognizing prostate cancer as a public health priority and a leading health disparity since 2011. This event and the Prostate Cancer Equity Program are integral components of the broader state-wide prostate cancer program, which established a Massachusetts model of national and global leadership in public awareness, medical education, research and reducing health disparities since 2013.

The event sponsors include Lantheus, Astellas, Blue Earth Diagnostics, and Johnson and Johnson.

AdMeTech Foundation organized this event in cooperation with the Prostate Cancer Action Council, including the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Center for Elimination of Health and Social Inequities and Disparities, Community Health Awareness Network Grows Equity, the Latino Health Insurance Program, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Coalition, Men of Color Health Awareness, NAACP Branches, and Independent "Blue Ribbon" Expert Panel, consisting of the experts in clinical care and research.

WHEN: Thursday, March 28, 2024, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

WHERE: Virtual Event. Join the event by using this link:

https://www.facebook.com/manogram/

WHO: Governor Maura Healey

Senate President Karen Spilka

Speaker of the House Ronald Mariano

Senate Majority Leader Cynthia Creem

Senate President Pro Tempore William Brownsberger

Senate Majority Whip Mike Rush

Senator Pavel Payano

Representative Gerry Cassidy, Chair, Joint Committee on Veteran and Federal Affairs

Representative Carlos Gonzlez, Chair, Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee

Representative Bud Williams, Chair, Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion; and Chair, Massachusetts Legislative Black and Latino Caucus

Thomas Satham, Director, Operations and Health Policy, AdMeTech Foundation

Faina Shtern, M.D., President and CEO, AdMeTech Foundation

Milagros Abreu, M.D., MPH, Founder, President, and CEO, Latino Health Insurance Program

Steve Bernard, Immediate Past President, Brockton Area Branch of NAACP

Juan Cofield, Prostate Cancer Survivor and President, Social Justice Foundation

Zane Crute, Secretary, NAACP New England Area Conference and Immediate Past President, Mystic Valley NAACP

Darren Duarte, Director of Communications and Spokesperson, Brockton Police, and Prostate Cancer Survivor

Rashaan Hall, President and CEO, Urban League

Jose Javier, Co-Founder, Metro Financial Solutions, and Prostate Cancer Advocate

Leona Martin, Member, Brockton Area Branch NAACP

Kenneth Reeves, President, Cambridge NAACP

Ronald Roberts, Prostate Cancer Survivor

Lamont Scott, Program Coordinator, Men of Color Health Awareness (MOCHA)

Dalton Skerritt, President, Center for Elimination of Health and Social Inequities and Disparities

Mitchell Sokoloff, M.D., Professor and Chair, Department of Urology, University of Massachusetts School of Medicine and UMass Memorial Medical Center

Quoc-Dien Trinh, M.D., MBA, Section Chief of Urology, Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital; Co-Director; Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Prostate Cancer Program; and Associate Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School

Shaun Wason, M.D., Faculty Member, Division of Urology and Associated Physician, Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians, Milton Center for Specialty Care and Needham Urology Associates, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Beth Israel Lahey Health, Harvard Medical School

About AdMeTech Foundation: A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, based in Boston, MA. AdMeTech Foundation established the Manogram Project, providing national and international leadership for groundbreaking programs in research, education, awareness and advocacy. These programs have been expediting the advancement and implementation of precision, individualized approaches to screening, diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer, and clinical care equity (www.admetech.org).

Contact Information

Nancy Petkunas

Vice President, Client Services, Michael P. Wasserman, Inc

[email protected]

(508) 353-3357

SOURCE: AdMeTech Foundation

View the original press release on newswire.com.
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / March 26, 2024 / Mongolia Growth Group Ltd. (the "Company") (TSXV:YAK), announced today that TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") has accepted a Notice of Intention to renews its normal course issuer bid to purchase outstanding common shares of the Company on the open market in accordance with the policies of the TSXV.

Pursuant to the NCIB, (the "Bid") the Company may acquire up to 1,760,000 common shares, approximately 9.97% of the 17,648,649 common shares constituting the Company's current Public Float (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange), from time to time during the next 12 months. In accordance with the Policies of the Exchange, the maximum number of common shares that may be purchased under the Bid in any 30-day period may not exceed 2% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company when aggregated with all other common shares purchased under the Bid in the preceding 30 days.

The Company is undertaking the Bid because, in the opinion of its board of directors, the market price of its common shares, from time to time, may not fully reflect the underlying value of its operations and future growth prospects. The Company believes that in such circumstances, the purchase of the common shares of the Company may represent an appropriate and desirable use of the Company's funds and further enhance market stability.

The Company has retained Research Capital Corp of Toronto, Ontario as its broker Member for the purposes of conducting the bid. The Bid will commence April 2, 2024 and the Bid will end no later than April 1, 2025. The common shares will be purchased for cancellation on the open market through the facilities of the Exchange, at market price. This transaction is subject to the TSX Venture Exchange approval.

From March 27, 2023, to March 26, 2024, the Company purchased 1,213,400 of its shares at an average price of $1.40 under its most recently expired NCIB.

For further information please contact:

Genevieve Walkden, Corporate Secretary

877-644-1186

[email protected]

This news release includes forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although 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 or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include general economic, market and business conditions, the regulatory process and actions, regulator and corporate approvals, technical issues, new legislation, competitive and general economic factors and conditions, the uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans, the occurrence of unexpected events, and the Company's capability to execute and implement its future plans. Actual results may differ materially from those projected by management. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any 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. We seek safe harbour.

The TSXV has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this Press release.

SOURCE: Mongolia Growth Group Ltd.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
TAMPA, FL / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / The Mosaic Company (NYSE: MOS) announced its combined January and February 2024 sales volumes and revenue by business unit.

Potash Jan/Feb 2024 Jan/Feb 2023 Sales volumes (000 tonnes(1)) 1,417 1,100 Sales revenues (million USD) $ 418 $ 542 Phosphates Jan/Feb 2024 Jan/Feb 2023 Sales volumes (000 tonnes(1)) 1,087 1,066 Sales revenues (million USD) $ 760 $ 827 Mosaic Fertilizantes Jan/Feb 2024 Jan/Feb 2023 Sales Volumes (000 tonnes(1)) 1,238 1,462 Sales Revenues (million USD) $ 650 $ 971

(1)Tonnes = finished product tonnes

For the first quarter, potash sales volumes and MOP prices at the mine are expected to be within the previous guidance range of 2.0-2.2 million tonnes, and $225-$250 per tonne, respectively.

In Phosphates, first quarter sales volumes are expected to be within the previous guidance range of 1.6-1.8 million tonnes. Included in that estimate are 175,000 to 200,000 tonnes of low margin products purchased from third parties to offset the impact of our previously announced turnaround schedule in the first half of 2024. DAP prices at the plant are expected to be within the previous guidance range of $580-$605 per tonne.

Looking ahead, our Riverview phosphate fertilizer production facility, which has a run rate of approximately 30,000 tonnes per week, sustained limited damage to ancillary operations from a brushfire earlier this week. Production impacts associated with the incident may last four to six weeks. At the time of the fire, the facility was configured to produce phosphate products primarily for export to Brazil.

About The Mosaic Company

The Mosaic Company is one of the world's leading producers and marketers of concentrated phosphate and potash crop nutrients. Mosaic is a single source provider of phosphates and potash fertilizers and feed ingredients for the global agriculture industry. More information on the company is available at www.mosaicco.com.

Mosaic will publish a market update on the company's investor relations website immediately after this press release. Mosaic - Market Education (mosaicco.com)

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about proposed or pending future transactions or strategic plans and other statements about future financial and operating results. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of The Mosaic Company's management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: political and economic instability and changes in government policies in Brazil and other countries in which we have operations; the predictability and volatility of, and customer expectations about, agriculture, fertilizer, raw material, energy and transportation markets that are subject to competitive and other pressures and economic and credit market conditions; the level of inventories in the distribution channels for crop nutrients; the economic impact and operating impacts of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, the effect of future product innovations or development of new technologies on demand for our products; changes in foreign currency and exchange rates; international trade risks and other risks associated with Mosaic's international operations and those of joint ventures in which Mosaic participates, including the performance of the Wa'ad Al Shamal Phosphate Company (also known as MWSPC), the future success of current plans for MWSPC and any future changes in those plans; difficulties with realization of the benefits of our natural gas based pricing ammonia supply agreement with CF Industries, Inc., including the risk that the cost savings initially anticipated from the agreement may not be fully realized over its term or that the price of natural gas or ammonia during the term are at levels at which the pricing is disadvantageous to Mosaic; customer defaults; the effects of Mosaic's decisions to exit business operations or locations; changes in government policy; changes in environmental and other governmental regulation, including expansion of the types and extent of water resources regulated under federal law, carbon taxes or other greenhouse gas regulation, implementation of numeric water quality standards for the discharge of nutrients into Florida waterways or efforts to reduce the flow of excess nutrients into the Mississippi River basin, the Gulf of Mexico or elsewhere; further developments in judicial or administrative proceedings, or complaints that Mosaic's operations are adversely impacting nearby farms, business operations or properties; difficulties or delays in receiving, increased costs of or challenges to necessary governmental permits or approvals or increased financial assurance requirements; resolution of global tax audit activity; the effectiveness of Mosaic's processes for managing its strategic priorities; adverse weather conditions affecting operations in Central Florida, the Mississippi River basin, the Gulf Coast of the United States, Canada or Brazil, and including potential hurricanes, excess heat, cold, snow, rainfall or drought; actual costs of various items differing from management's current estimates, including, among others, asset retirement, environmental remediation, reclamation or other environmental regulation, Canadian resources taxes and royalties, or the costs of the MWSPC; reduction of Mosaic's available cash and liquidity, and increased leverage, due to its use of cash and/or available debt capacity to fund financial assurance requirements and strategic investments; brine inflows at Mosaic's potash mines; other accidents and disruptions involving Mosaic's operations, including potential mine fires, floods, explosions, seismic events, sinkholes or releases of hazardous or volatile chemicals; and risks associated with cyber security, including reputational loss; as well as other risks and uncertainties reported from time to time in The Mosaic Company's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: The Mosaic Company

View the original press release on accesswire.com
LUXEMBOURG / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Nexa Resources S.A. ("Nexa Resources" or "Nexa" or the "Company") (NYSE Symbol:NEXA) announces its 2023 Year-End Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources ("MRMR") relating to its operations and projects located in Peru and Brazil.

Commenting on the MRMR update, Ignacio Rosado, CEO of Nexa Resources, said "Our mineral exploration program in 2023 was focused on identifying new mineralized zones in our operating mines including Aripuan, where significant results from the Babacu infill drilling program defined new Mineral Reserves, and increased Mineral Resources.

As a major polymetallic mine operator and the 5th largest zinc producer worldwide, Nexa has a unique portfolio of operating mines with excellent exploration potential and a pipeline of greenfield exploration projects. In 2024, our mineral exploration program will remain focused on the replacement of Mineral Reserves and upgrading Mineral Resources through infill drilling campaigns."

2023 Year-End Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources Highlights

Mineral Reserves

Note: "Addition" refers to new tonnages from brownfield and infill drilling and "Revision" refers to changes in Mineral Reserves due to changes in mine design, changes in economic parameters, leading to a model review and update. Reserve numbers refer to zinc mines and projects.

As of December 31, 2023, Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves estimates amounted to 110.4 million tonnes containing 4,031kt of zinc (at higher average zinc grade) compared with 100.6 million tonnes containing 3,540kt of zinc as of December 31, 2022. The increase was mainly driven by infill and brownfield drilling at Aripuana, partially offset by mining production depletion. Nexa's 2023 Year-End Mineral Reserves estimate also reflects changes in continuous refining of its geological modelling. Another addition to Mineral Reserves is the re-inclusion of the Atacocha Mineral Reserves from the underground and open pit mines, which were not included in 2022. Positive results from the Cerro Pasco Integration Project economic study carried out during 2023 support the declaration of Mineral Reserves. The Pasco Integration Project is designed to further integrate the Atacocha and El Porvenir mines to increase production and extend mine life by eliminating the main bottlenecks in each operation, increasing mill capacity, and opening up additional exploration potential including at the integration mineralized body.

The net revision of -34kt of zinc was primarily due to the increase in cut-off at Aripuana (-140kt) balanced by stope layout and cut-off revisions at Cerro Lindo, and El Porvenir (106kt).

The Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves at the Cerro Lindo Mine were estimated to total 41.15Mt at 1.49% Zn, 0.22% Pb, 0.55% Cu and 22.6 g/t Ag as of December 31, 2023, a 0.7% decrease from 41.43Mt at 1.57% Zn, 0.22% Pb, 0.59% Cu and 22.5 g/t Ag as of December 31, 2022. The decrease was the result of mining production depletion during 2023, balanced by infill drilling in mine extensions (+23kt of zinc), and stope layout and cut-off revisions (+28kt of zinc). Mineral Reserve depletion during 2023 accounted for -5.98Mt containing 90kt of zinc.

The Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves at the Vazante Mine were estimated to total 11.33Mt at 9.62% Zn, 0.21% Pb, and 13.8 g/t Ag as of December 31, 2023, down 16% from 13.50Mt at 9.64% Zn, 0.27% Pb and 15.2 g/t Ag as of December 31, 2022. The decrease was the result of mining production depletion during 2023, and geotechnical revision at Lumiadeira area (-28kt of contained zinc). Mineral Reserve depletion during 2023 accounted for -1.70Mt containing 184kt of zinc. In 2023, Nexa added 2.11Mt of Probable Mineral Reserves with 87kt of contained zinc from the Aroeira tailings deposit after a hydrogeological and environmental study.

The Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves at the El Porvenir Mine were estimated to total 14.65Mt at 4.11% Zn, 1.20% Pb, 0.23% Cu and 72.9 g/t Ag as of December 31, 2023, a 5.5% decrease from 15.50Mt at 3.60% Zn, 1.07% Pb, 0.19% Cu and 66.0 g/t Ag as of December 31, 2022. The decrease is the balance result from mining depletion, and the addition of 106kt of contained zinc from stope layout and model revision. Mineral Reserve depletion during 2023 accounted for -2.20Mt containing 62kt of zinc.

The Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves at the Atacocha (Underground) Mine were estimated to total 5.66Mt at 4.33% Zn, 1.34% Pb, 0.40% Cu, 79.8 g/t Ag, and 0.07g/t Au as of December 31, 2023. The Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves at the Atacocha (Open Pit) Mine were estimated to total 4.38Mt at 0.99% Zn, 1.15% Pb, 34.9 g/t Ag, and 0.27g/t Au as of December 31, 2023.

The Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves at the Aripuana Mine were estimated to total 31.07Mt at 4.35% Zn, 1.66% Pb, 0.15% Cu, 40.6 g/t Ag and 0.22 g/t Au as of December 31, 2023, a 3.2% increase from 30.12Mt at 3.42% Zn, 1.25% Pb, 0.17% Cu, 32.1 g/t Ag and 0.23 g/t Au as of December 31, 2022. The Babacu infill drilling program carried out during 2023 provided new Probable Mineral Reserves of 9.10Mt at 5.56% Zn, 2.19% Pb, 0.11% Cu, 49.6 g/t Ag, and 0.14g/t Au as of December 31, 2023, totaling an increase of 506kt of contained zinc in the reserves. We reported a loss of -140kt of contained zinc due to an increase in cut-off impacting mostly low-grade ores. Mineral Reserve depletion during 2023 accounted for -1.56Mt containing 44kt of zinc.

Mineral Resources

Note: "Addition" refers to new tonnages from brownfield and greenfield drilling and "Revision" refers to changes in Mineral Resources due to changes in reclassification, mine design, changes in economic parameters, leading to a model review and update. Mineral Resource numbers refer to zinc mines and projects.

As of December 31, 2023, Nexa estimated Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources (exclusive of Mineral Reserves) were 3,259kt of contained zinc compared with 3,432kt as of December 31, 2022. The Addition and Revision accounted for a net decrease of -173kt of contained zinc mostly due to conversion of Mineral Resources to Mineral Reserves at Aripuana after the Babacu infill drilling, and at the Atacocha (Underground) and Atacocha (Open Pit) Mines following the Pasco Integration Project study.

At Vazante Aroeira tailings, a hydrogeologic and environmental study resulted in conversion of 108kt of contained zinc from Indicated Mineral Resources to Mineral Reserves. At the Atacocha (Underground) and Atacocha (Open Pit) Mines, the Pasco Integration Project accounted for a -175kt and -44kt reduction in contained zinc, respectively, after conversion to Mineral Reserves.

As of December 31, 2023, Nexa estimated Inferred Mineral Resources of 6,897kt of contained zinc, compared with the total of 6,626kt at the end of 2022. The addition of 543kt of contained zinc was mostly incorporated through the Babacu drilling at Aripuana. The net revision reduction of -271kt of contained zinc is mostly due to model revisions and reclassification at Vazante and conversion of Inferred Mineral Resources to Mineral Reserves at Babacu.

Exploration Outlook

Our exploration strategy for 2024 is aimed at focusing on Mineral Resource expansion through brownfield and infill drilling near operating mines and extension drilling on advanced projects.

A total of 66,050 meters of drilling is planned for 2024, including 42,100 meters in Peru (63%) and 23,950 meters in Brazil (37%). At Cerro Lindo, we plan to drill a total of 23,100 meters including exploratory drilling at Patahuasi Millay, Pucasalla and its extensions, located in the northern side of the Cerro Lindo Mine and extension drilling at Orebodies 8B, 9, 5 and 6A, located southeast of the mine.

At the Cerro Pasco Complex (El Porvenir and Atacocha), we plan to drill 8,500 meters divided between Pasco Integration Project targets to extend the mineralized hydrothermal breccia to upper levels of the deposit and at Don Lucho, VAM and Porvenir 9 targets. At the Hilarion and Florida Canyon Zinc projects, our focus will be to advance geological mapping and integration of geological data to define the exploration strategy for the years ahead.

At Aripuana, the strategy will be to drill 9,000 meters to identify the mineralization in the Massaranduba target to validate the continuation of the deposit in the southeast side of the Aripuana Mine. At Vazante, we plan to carry out 12,350 meters of brownfield drilling, 7,050 to extend known orebodies such as Sucuri and Sucuri North and 5,300 meters of infill drilling at the BDMG Orebody to convert Inferred Mineral Resources into Indicated Mineral Resources.

In Namibia, we plan to drill 3,000 meters of exploratory drilling to continue investigating copper mineralization in the Tsumeb trend.

We expect to continue advancing our drilling campaigns and developing our pipeline of projects in regional areas with additional 13,100 meters of diamond drilling, prioritizing belts for exploratory drilling and Mineral Resource expansion to consolidate our Zinc and Copper portfolio with optimized investments between them.

Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources Tables

MINERAL RESERVES

The following table shows our estimates of Mineral Reserves prepared with an effective date of December 31, 2023 (except as indicated below).

Table 1. Nexa Year-End Mineral Reserves as of December 31, 2023 (except as indicated below) for Zinc operating mines on a 100% basis

NOTES TO MINERAL RESERVES TABLE

The total amounts and content presented in Table 1 have not been adjusted to reflect our ownership interest. The information presented in this table includes 100% of the Mineral Reserve estimates for each property. Please refer to our ownership percentage for the amounts attributable to our ownership interest in each property.

Subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K definitions were followed for Mineral Reserves, which also are consistent with the CIM (2014) definitions. Mineral Reserves have an effective date as of December 31, 2023.

The Qualified Person for the Mineral Reserves estimates for Cerro Lindo is Cristovao Teofilo dos Santos, B.Eng., FAusIMM, a Nexa employee; for Vazante and Vazante Aroeira Tailings it is Vitor Marcos Teixeira de Aguilar, B.Eng., FAusIMM, a Nexa employee; for Aripuana it is Vitor Ferraz Viana, B.Eng., FAusIMM, a Nexa employee; and for El Porvenir, Atacocha (Underground) is Varun Bhundhoo, ing., a SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd. employee, and for Atacocha (Open Pit) is Hugo Miranda, MBA, SME (RM), a SLR International Corporation employee.

Cerro Lindo Mine: Mineral Reserves are estimated at an NSR break-even cut-off value of US$40.86/t processed. Some incremental material with values between US$32.99/t and US$40.86/t was included. Mineral Reserves estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$2,799.04/t (US$1.27/lb); copper: US$7,669.61/t (US$3.48/lb); lead: US$2,000.29/t (US$0.91/lb); and silver: US$21.17/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 88.36% for Zn, 85.23% for Cu, 66.53% for Pb, and 68.78% for Ag. A minimum mining width of 5.0 m was used. Dilution and extraction factors are applied based on stope type and location. Bulk density varies depending on mineralization domain.

Vazante Mine: Mineral Reserves are estimated at a NSR cut-off value of US$66.31/t processed. Mineral Reserves estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$2,799.04/t (US$1.27/lb); lead: US$2,000.29/t (US$0.91/lb); and silver: US$21.17/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 87.19% for Zn, 23.93% for Pb, and 42.00% for Ag. A minimum mining width of 4.0 m was applied.

Vazante Aroeira Tailings: Mineral Reserves are estimated at a NSR cut-off value of US$25.44/t processed. Mineral Reserves estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$2,799.04/t (US$1.27/lb); lead: US$2,000.29/t (US$0.91/lb); and silver: US$21.17/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Vazante Aroeira Tailings average head grades are 67.86% for Zn, 40.74% for Pb, and 42.00% for Ag. A minimum mining unit of 10 m x 10 m x 2 m was applied.

El Porvenir Mine: Mineral Reserves are estimated at NSR cut-off grade values ranging from US$63.77/t to US$67.04/t for SLS areas and US$65.77/t to US$69.04/t for C&F areas depending on the zone. Mineral Reserves estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$2,799.04/t (US$1.27/lb); copper: US$7,669.61/t (US$3.48/lb); lead: US$2,000.29/t (US$0.91/lb); and silver: US$21.17/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 89.21% for Zn, 14.60% for Cu, 80.01% for Pb, and 77.51% for Ag. Minimum mining width of 5.0 m for C&F mining and 4.0 m for SLS mining were used for reserves shapes and development design and are reported inclusive of extraction losses and dilution.

Atacocha (Underground) Mine: The Mineral Reserves were estimated at a NSR cut-off of US$69.00/t for SLS areas and US$71.07/t for C&F areas depending on the zone. A number of incremental material (with values between US$45.09/t and US$69.00/t for SLS and values between US$47.16/t and US$71.07/t for C&F mining were included in estimate. Mineral Reserves estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$2,799.04/t (US$1.27/lb); copper: US$7,669.61/t (US$3.48/lb); lead: US$2,000.29/t (US$0.91/lb); and silver: US$21.17/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 89.30% for Zn, 15.73% for Cu, 80.02% for Pb, and 77.51% for Ag. Minimum mining width of 5.0 m for C&F mining and 4.0 m for SLS mining were used for reserves shapes and development design and are reported inclusive of extraction losses and dilution.

Atacocha (Open Pit) Mine: Mineral Reserves are estimated at a NSR cut-off value of US$16.21/t. Mineral Reserves estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$2,799.04/t (US$1.27/lb); lead: US$2,000.29/t (US$0.91/lb); silver: US$21.17/oz; and gold: US$1,630.93/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 70.44% for Zn, 83.97% for Pb, 75.76% for Ag and 65.46% for Au.

Aripuana Mine: Mineral Reserves are estimated at a NSR break-even cut-off value of US$63.40/t processed was estimated from forecasted operating costs and some incremental material between US$49.20/t and US$63.40/t was included. Mineral Reserves estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$2,799.04/t (US$1.27/lb); copper: US$7,669.61/t (US$3.48/lb); lead: US$2,000.29/t (US$0.91/lb); silver: US$21.17/oz; and gold: US$1,630.93/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for NSR calculations based on metallurgical testworks and are variable as a function of head grade and ore type. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade for a Mix of 80% Stratabound and 20% Stringer material are 90.06% for Zn, 60.00% for Cu, 84.92% for Pb, 68.00% for Ag, and 67.80% for Au. A minimum mining width of 4.0 m was applied.

Numbers may not add due to rounding.

The point of reference for Mineral Reserves in Table 1 is mill feed materials.

MINERAL RESOURCES

The following table shows our estimates of Mineral Resources (exclusive of Mineral Reserves) in operating mines prepared with an effective date of December 31, 2023 (except as indicated below).

Table 2. Nexa Year-End Mineral Resources as of December 31, 2023 (except as indicated below) for Zinc operating mines on a 100% basis

The following table shows our estimates of Mineral Resources (exclusive of Mineral Reserves) for our zinc exploration projects prepared with an effective date of December 31, 2023 (except as indicated below).

Table 3. Nexa Year-End Mineral Resources as of December 31, 2023 (except as indicated below) for Zinc projects on a 100% basis

The following table shows our estimates of Mineral Resources for our copper project portfolio prepared with an effective date of December 31, 2023 (except as indicated below).

Table 4. Nexa Year-End Mineral Resources for Copper projects on a 100% basis

NOTES TO MINERAL RESOURCES TABLES

The Qualified Person for the Mineral Resources estimate for Vazante, Vazante Aroeira Tailings, Morro Agudo and Aripuana is Jose Antonio Lopes, B.Geo., FAusIMM, a Nexa employee; and for Cerro Lindo, El Porvenir, Atacocha (Open Pit), Atacocha (Underground) and Hilarion, Florida Canyon Zinc and Magistral projects is Jerry Huaman Abalos, B.Geo., MAusIMM(CP), a Nexa employee. The tonnage and content amounts presented in Tables 2, 3 and 4, represents 100% of the Mineral Resources estimates for each property. Please refer to our ownership percentage for the amounts attributable to our ownership interest in each property.

Mineral Resources have an effective date as of: (a) December 31, 2023, for Cerro Lindo, El Porvenir, Atacocha (Underground), Atacocha (Open Pit), Vazante, Morro Agudo and Aripuana Mines; (b) December 31, 2022, for the Hilarion project; (c) October 30, 2020, for the Florida Canyon Zinc project, and (d) December 31, 2021, for the Magistral project.

Subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K definitions were followed for Mineral Resources, which also are consistent with the CIM (2014) definitions.

Cerro Lindo Mine: Mineral Resources are estimated at an NSR cut-off value of US$40.86/t. Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$3,218.90/t (US$1.46/lb); copper: US$8,820.05/t (US$3.48/lb); lead: US$2,300.33/t (US$1.04/lb); and silver: US$24.35/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 88.36% for Zn, 85.23% for Cu, 66.53% for Pb, and 68.78% for Ag. A minimum mining width of 4.0 m was used to create resource shapes. Bulk density varies depending on mineralization domain.

Vazante Mine and Vazante Aroeira Tailings: Mineral Resources are estimated at various NSR cut-off values appropriate to the mineralization style and mining method. For Supergene Mineralization (Calamine) the resources are estimated at a NSR cut-off value of US$27.91/t for soil and US$32.92/t for fresh rock and transition material. For Aroeira Tailings the resources are estimated at a NSR cut-off value of US$29.06/t and for Hypogene Mineralization (Willemite) a cut-off value of US$66.31/t for all resources shapes. Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$3,218.90/t (US$1.46/lb); lead: US$2,300.33/t (US$1.04/lb); and silver: US$24.35/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average hypogene mineralization (Willemite) head grades are 87.19% for Zn, 23.93% for Pb, and 42.00% for Ag. Recovery at supergene mineralization is 55.00% for Zn. Recoveries for Aroeira Tailings are 67.86% for Zn, 40.74% for Pb and 42.00% for Ag. A minimum thickness of 3.0 m for underground SLS, open pit shell for Calamine and above original topography for tailings. Bulk density was assigned based on rock type.

El Porvenir Mine: Mineral Resources are estimated at NSR cut-off grade values ranging from US$63.77/t to US$67.05/t for SLS areas and US$65.77/t to US$69.04 for C&F areas depending on the zone. Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$3,218.90/t (US$1.46/lb); copper: US$8,820.05/t (US$3.48/lb); lead: US$2,300.33/t (US$1.04/lb); and silver: US$24.35/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 89.21% for Zn, 14.60% for Cu, 80.01% for Pb, and 77.51% for Ag. A minimum mining width of 4.0 m was used for C&F and a minimum mining width of 3.0 m was used for SLS resource stopes shapes respectively. Bulk density varies depending on mineralization domain.

Atacocha (Underground) Mine: Mineral Resources are estimated at a NSR cut-off value of US$69.00/t for SLS, and US$71.07/t for C&F. Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$3,218.90/t (US$1.46/lb); copper: US$8,820.05/t (US$3.48/lb); lead: US$2,300.33/t (US$1.04/lb); and silver: US$24.35/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 89.30% for Zn, 15.73% for Cu, 80.02% for Pb, and 77.51% for Ag. A minimum mining width of 4.0 m was used for C&F and a minimum mining width of 3.0 m was used for SLS resource stopes shapes respectively. Density was assigned based on rock type.

Atacocha (Open Pit) Mine: Mineral Resources are reported within optimized pit shell. Mineral Resources are estimated at a NSR cut-off value of US$22.44/t. Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$3,218.90/t (US$1.46/lb); lead: US$2,300.33/t (US$1.04/lb); silver: US$24.35/oz; and gold: US$1,875.57/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 70.44% for Zn, 83.97% for Pb, 75.76% for Ag, and 65.46% for Au. Mineral Resources are reported within open pit shell. Density was assigned based on rock type.

Aripuana Mine: Mineral Resources reported using a cut-of value of US$63.40/t. Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$3,218.90/t (US$1.46/lb); copper: US$8,820.05/t (US$3.48/lb); lead: US$2,300.33/t (US$1.04/lb); silver: US$24.35/oz; and gold: US$1,875.57/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at Life of Mine average head grade are 90.06% for Zn, 60.00% for Cu, 84.92% for Pb, 68.00% for Ag, and 67.80% for Au. A minimum thickness of 3.0 m was used for stopes shapes. Bulk density varies depending on mineralization domain.

Morro Agudo Mine: Mineral Resources are reported within underground mining shapes and the NSR cut-off values are calculated based on the life of mine costs for each mine. Morro Agudo: US$51.84/t and Bonsucesso: US$55.83/t. Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$3,218.90/t (US$1.46/lb) and lead: US$2,300.33/t (US$1.04/lb). Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on historical processing data and are variable as a function of head grade. Recoveries at the LOM average head grades for Morro Agudo are 89.96% for Zn and 71.69% for Pb, and for Bonsucesso are 92.50% for Zn and 61.10% for Pb. A minimum thickness of 3.0 m was applied for Bonsucesso and 4.5 m for Morro Agudo underground. Density was assigned based on rock type. On March 19, 2024, Nexa announced the suspension of its mining operations at the Morro Agudo Mine effective May 1, 2024.

Hilarion: Mineral Resources are reported within underground mining shapes. The NSR cut-off is calculated based on the LOM costs: US$45.00/t. Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$3,245.91/t (US$1.47/lb); lead: US$2,332.46/t (US$1.06/lb); and silver: US$22.66/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are based on historical processing data: zinc (90.0%), lead (86.0%), and silver (72.0%). A minimum thickness of 4.0 m was used for stopes shapes. Bulk density was assigned based on rock type.

Florida Canyon Zinc: Mineral Resources are reported using a cut-off values of US$41.40/t NSR for SLS, US$42.93/t for C&F and US$40.61/t for Room & Pillar mine areas. The NSR cut-off is calculated based on the LOM costs: US$45.00/t. Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices of: zinc: US$2,816.00/t (US$1.27/lb); lead: US$2,196/t (US$1.00/lb); and silver: US$19.4/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are based on historical processing data: zinc (90.0%), lead (86.0%), and silver (72.0%). A minimum thickness of 3.0 m was used for sub-level stopes and Cut and Fill, and 4.0 m for Room and Pillars. Bulk density was assigned based on rock type.

Magistral: Mineral Resources are reported using NSR cut-off value: US$5.99/t (Porf. San Ernesto, Porf. Sara and Porf. H), US$5.51/t (Mixto), US$5.48/t (Skarn). Mineral Resources estimates are based on average long-term metal prices for the NSR calculations are: Resources Pit: copper: US$8,272.00/t (US$3.75/lb); molybdenum: US$21,829.00/t (US$9.90/lb); and silver: US$21.34/oz. Reserves Pit: copper: US$7,302.4/t (US$3.26/lb); molybdenum: US$19,286.4/t (US$8.61/lb); and silver: US$18.56/oz. Metallurgical recoveries are accounted for in NSR calculations based on metallurgical data and vary from 79.3% in skarn to 92.5% in San Ernesto porphyry for copper, 51.3% in skarn and 79.2% in San Ernesto porphyry for molybdenum, and 70% for Ag. Bulk densities ranging from 2.59 t/m3 to 3.30 t/m3 depending on the rock type.

Numbers may not add due to rounding.

The estimation of Mineral Resources involves assumptions about future commodity prices and technical mining matters. Mineral Resources are reported exclusive of those Mineral Resources that were converted to Mineral Reserves. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

There are no Mineral Reserves at Morro Agudo, and at the Hilarion, Florida Canyon Zinc and Magistral projects.

The point of reference for Mineral Resources in Tables 2, 3 and 4 is mill feed materials.

Technical Information

Jose Antonio Lopes, B.Geo., FAusIMM: 224829, a Mineral Resources manager, a Qualified Person for purposes of NI 43-101 and a Nexa employee, has approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

Further information, including key assumptions, parameters, and methods used to estimate Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources of the mines and/or projects referenced in the tables above can be found in the applicable technical reports, each of which is available at www.sedarplus.ca under Nexa's SEDAR profile.

About Nexa

Nexa is a large-scale, low-cost integrated zinc producer with over 65 years of experience developing and operating mining and smelting assets in Latin America. Nexa currently owns and operates five long-life mines - three located in the Central Andes of Peru and two located in the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil - and it is ramping up Aripuana, its sixth mine in Mato Grosso, Brazil. Nexa also currently owns and operates three smelters, two located in Minas Gerais, Brazil and one in Peru, Cajamarquilla, which is the largest smelter in the Americas.

Nexa was among the top five producers of mined zinc globally in 2023 and one of the top five metallic zinc producers worldwide in 2023, according to Wood Mackenzie.

Cautionary Statement on Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource Estimates

All Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource estimates of the Company disclosed or referenced in this news release have been prepared in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves dated May 10, 2014 ("2014 CIM Definition Standards"), whose definitions are incorporated by reference in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"), for the metals indicated per mine and project. Accordingly, such information may not be comparable to similar information prepared in accordance with Subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K ("S-K 1300"). For a discussion of the differences between the requirements under S-K 1300 and NI 43-101, please see our annual report on Form 20-F.

Mineral Reserve: is an estimate of tonnage and grade or quality of indicated and measured mineral resources that, in the opinion of the qualified person, can be the basis of an economically viable project. More specifically, it is the economically mineable part of a measured or indicated mineral resource, which includes diluting materials and allowances for losses that may occur when the material is mined or extracted.

Probable Mineral Reserve: is the economically mineable part of an indicated and, in some cases, a measured mineral resource.

Proven Mineral Reserve: is the economically mineable part of a measured mineral resource and can only result from conversion of a measured mineral resource.

Mineral Resource: is a concentration or occurrence of material of economic interest in or on the Earth's crust in such form, grade or quality, and quantity that there are reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction. A mineral resource is a reasonable estimate of mineralization, taking into account relevant factors such as cut-off grade, likely mining dimensions, location or continuity, that, with the assumed and justifiable technical and economic conditions, is likely to, in whole or in part, become economically extractable.

Inferred Mineral Resource: is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling. The level of geological uncertainty associated with an inferred mineral resource is too high to apply relevant technical and economic factors likely to influence the prospects of economic extraction in a manner useful for evaluation of economic viability.

Indicated Mineral Resource: is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of adequate geological evidence and sampling. The level of geological certainty associated with an indicated mineral resource is sufficient to allow a qualified person to apply modifying factors in sufficient detail to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit.

Measured Mineral Resource: is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of conclusive geological evidence and sampling. The level of geological certainty associated with a measured mineral resource is sufficient to allow a qualified person to apply modifying factors, as defined in this section, in sufficient detail to support detailed mine planning and final evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to in this news release as "forward-looking statements"). All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The words "believe," "will," "may," "may have," "would," "estimate," "continues," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "expects," "budget," "scheduled," "forecasts" and similar words are intended to identify estimates and forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of NEXA to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Actual results and developments may be substantially different from the expectations described in the forward-looking statements for a number of reasons, many of which are not under our control, among them, the activities of our competition, the future global economic situation, weather conditions, market prices and conditions, exchange rates, and operational and financial risks. The unexpected occurrence of one or more of the abovementioned events may significantly change the results of our operations on which we have based our estimates and forward-looking statements. Our estimates and forward-looking statements may also be influenced by, among others, legal, political, environmental or other risks that could materially affect the potential development of our projects, including risks related to outbreaks of contagious diseases or health crises impacting overall economic activity regionally or globally.

These forward-looking statements related to future events or future performance and include current estimates, predictions, forecasts, beliefs and statements as to management's expectations with respect to, but not limited to, the business and operations of the Company and mining production our growth strategy, the impact of applicable laws and regulations, future zinc and other metal prices, smelting sales, CAPEX, expenses related to exploration and project evaluation, estimation of mineral reserves and/or mineral resources, mine life and our financial liquidity.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable and appropriate by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies and may prove to be incorrect. Statements concerning future production costs or volumes are based on numerous assumptions of management regarding operating matters and on assumptions that demand for products develops as anticipated, that customers and other counterparties perform their contractual obligations, full integration of mining and smelting operations, that operating and capital plans will not be disrupted by issues such as mechanical failure, unavailability of parts and supplies, labor disturbances, interruption in transportation or utilities, adverse weather conditions, and other COVID-19 related impacts, and that there are no material unanticipated variations in metal prices, exchange rates, or the cost of energy, supplies or transportation, among other assumptions.

We assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required under securities laws. Estimates and forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and do not guarantee future performance, as actual results or developments may be substantially different from the expectations described in the forward-looking statements. Further information concerning risks and uncertainties associated with these forward-looking statements and our business can be found in our public disclosures filed under our profile on SEDAR (www.sedarplus.ca) and on EDGAR (www.sec.gov).

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations Team

[email protected]

SOURCE: Nexa Resources S.A.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Mycronic to Showcase More Versatile, High-Productivity Assembly Solutions at IPC APEX EXPO 2024 Published: 27 March 2024 by Tyler Hanes by Tyler Hanes

TABY, SWEDEN  Mycronic, the leading Sweden-based electronics assembly solutions provider, will continue to respond to growing customer demand for high-flexibility, high-productivity solutions for zero-defect PCB assembly at IPC APEX EXPO 2024 in Anaheim, CA on April 9 - 11.

MYPro A40DX  The new icon of agility

Mycronic will exhibit its next-generation MYPro A40 pick-and-place solution, equipped with an all-new MX7 high-speed mounthead technology. The new platform increases top placement speeds by 48% while handling a significantly wider range of component types and sizes.

Manufacturers aiming to boost throughput will welcome the MYPro A40DXs IPC-rated top speed of 59,000 cph (components per hour). The new MX7 mounthead achieves this by integrating seven independent placement nozzles steered by individual Z and theta motors. To accommodate a wider range of applications and technologies, the new mounthead expands the upper component size limit by six times, enabling placement of components as large as 454515 mm or 1504015 mm. A high precision mounthead complements the MX7 to mount chip components as small as 0.30.15 mm (009005), and components as large as 997315/22 mm.

Outside the machine, a newly designed graphical user interface has been introduced to simplify both training and pick-and-place operations for even novice operators. By providing straightforward touchscreen guidance, the MYPro A40 moves the pick-and-place process another step forward towards the companys ambition of fully automated one-click operations.

The latest breakthroughs in advanced AOI

The MYPro I series 3D AOI, the companys latest flagship in-line inspection system, will display its Iris 3D AOI vision technology, which enables manufacturers to improve test coverage while capturing the industrys highest-resolution images at speeds up to thirty percent faster than previous technologies.

Escape Tracker, a real-time programming assistant embedded in the MYWizard programming software, will demonstrate entirely new levels of reliability and speed in 3D AOI programming. A live demo will show how the software continuously analyzes and updates the system's inspection library to eliminate escapes, dramatically reduce false calls, and constantly improve inspection models over time.

AI in action

A long list of advances in automatic component detection and recognition, automatic component position detection and more accurate 3D review images have been made by Mycronic in recent years. A pioneer in the use of machine learning in SPI and AOI, the company welcomes IPC APEX visitors to discuss the latest advances in neural networks and their applications for AI-assisted improvements in electronics inspection.

Zero-defect and productive printing

New for Mycronic customers, the MYPro S series is a robust, highly accurate and user-friendly range of stencil printers. True to the MYPro production philosophy, it enables the fastest possible changeovers and features all the functionalities expected from a modern screen printer. IPC APEX visitors will experience the advantages of stencil printing, combined with the MY700 Jet Printer and PI series 3D SPI, which together enable add-on printing and closed-loop solder-paste repair functionality. For high-reliability electronics manufacturers looking for the fastest cycle times, this add-on configuration combines the flexibility and accuracy of jet printing with the throughput of stencil printing in a single, integrated and cost-efficient platform. And thanks to the precise information provided by cutting-edge SPI 3D inspection, the Jet Printer seamlessly fills any paste gaps for zero-defect printing.

Enhanced connectivity and process control

New process control solutions to be introduced at IPC APEX include an updated MYCenter Analysis pick-and-place dashboard, now featuring a component analytics function that enables faster drill-down into specific process settings for each component. This allows users to better understand and resolve the root causes of process detractors to dramatically improve first-pass yield. Regarding connectivity, the MYPro Connect software enables vertical communication with MES and ERP systems at line level, using the IPC CFX standard. It completes the horizontal connectivity brought by the Hermes protocol, allowing machine-to-machine communication down the production line.

Tailored solutions for automated electronics protection

Finally, to meet growing demand for high-precision electronics protection, Mycronic will present its suite of MYSmart coating and dispensing solutions. At IPC APEX, visitors will be able to experience versatile conformal coating and dispensing solutions and the latest valve technologies, many of which are now firmly established as the leading choices among global tier-one manufacturers.

Producers of consumer electronics, in particular, will welcome the high-speed jet dispensing valve technologies available for the MY700 Jet Printer and Jet Dispenser, making it the industrys fastest all-material jetting system. Wherever large-area, random-dot dispensing patterns are crucial to manufacturing quality and efficiency, the new jetting system brings the speed and accuracy of the MY700 into a far wider range of dispensing fluid applications.

Wherever we can add new levels of flexibility, accuracy, advanced automation and easy usability, Mycronic continues to deliver value to its customers, says Clemens Jargon, Sr VP High Flex Division. At IPC APEX EXPO, we are thrilled to continue to lead the way by providing the most advanced turnkey solutions for every stage of PCB assembly.

To experience live demos and to learn more about Mycronics MYPro Line, software and connectivity solutions, and MYSmart dispensing and coating platforms, visit booth #742 at IPC APEX EXPO in Anaheim, CA on April 9 - 11.
ORLANDO, FL / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Orlando Credit Union now offers cash back. For every activation of any of Orlando Credit Union's credit cards, combined with creation and origination of a Rewards Checking account, the Orlando Credit Union team will give new members $250 cash back. "We respond to the communities we serve, and we're hearing that this kind of offer fills a need in Central Florida," stated David Duncan, VP of Marketing at Orlando Credit Union. "With this offer, we seek to better fulfill a want and provide a solution for people seeking to build an earned Rewards product program and have access to new debit and credit options in market," added Duncan. "It results in a win: a win for consumers," shared David.









To access this offer today and learn more about Orlando Credit Union, visit OrlandoCreditUnion.org for details. This offer is designed for you and is available now for each and every consumer throughout the eight counties Orlando Credit Union serves in Central Florida. Terms and conditions apply.

Contact Information

Kaylee Greene

Content Marketing Specialist

[email protected]

SOURCE: Orlando Credit Union

View the original press release on newswire.com.
EASTON, PA / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Paragon Technologies, Inc. (OTC PINK:PGNT), a holding company, announced its results for the year ended December 31, 2023, on March 27, 2024.

Paragon's Annual Letter to Shareholders will be available April 8, 2024, and can be accessed by visiting the Investor Relations page on the Company's website, www.pgntgroup.com.

Paragon Technologies, Inc.'s Consolidated Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 are summarized below. For further detail on our results, shareholders should carefully review our annual report, which can be found at www.pgntgroup.com.

December 31, December 31, December 31, (In Thousands) 2023 2022 2021





Net Sales $ 125,274 $ 134,244 $ 141,553 Operating Income 3,832 7,577 6,506 Other Income (Expense) Realized Gain (Loss) on Marketable Securities (77 ) 935 (325 ) Unrealized Loss on Marketable Securities (215 ) (211 ) (110 ) Interest Income 187 74 16 Interest Expense (1,021 ) (1,008 ) (310 ) Gain on Sales of Fixed Assets 1 - 1 Employee Retention Credit - - 138 Grant Income 13 18 54 Total Other Expense (1,112 ) (192 ) (536 ) Income Before Taxes and Noncontrolling Interest 2,720 7,385 5,970 Income Tax Expense 1,174 2,085 1,899

Net Income Before Noncontrolling Interest 1,546 5,300 4,071 Net Income Attributable to Nonconcontrolling Interest 405 567 720 Net Income Attributable to Paragon Technologies, Inc. and Subsidiaries $ 1,141 $ 4,733 $ 3,351

Analysis of Results and General Business Commentary:

In 2018 newly issued accounting rules required that all companies record any unrealized losses or gains from equity investments in the income statement.

Paragon's investment gains or losses reflect realized gains or losses in the company's investment portfolio.

Paragon utilizes pre-tax operating income, a non-GAAP financial measure, in its analysis of financial results. Paragon Technologies defines pre-tax operating earnings outside of the investment gains/losses of the Company.

About Paragon Technologies

Paragon Technologies, Inc. is a holding company owning subsidiaries that engage in diverse business activities, including material handling, distribution, real estate and investments.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements concern the Company's operations, financial condition and performance and are based largely on the Company's beliefs and expectations. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, among others, those related to: general economic conditions, including those in the markets in which the Company operates; the Company's ability to expand its revenue streams; technological changes in the Company's industry; the continued acceptance of the Company's distribution channel by vendors and customers; decreased demand for the Company's products and services and the Company's ability to retain or replace its significant customers; factors affecting the capital markets and share prices generally; economic and political risks of selling products in foreign countries, including risks of non-compliance with U.S. and foreign laws and regulations; cybersecurity risks and risks of damage and interruptions of information technology systems; and the Company's ability to complete acquisitions, strategic investments, divestitures, mergers or other transactions on acceptable terms or at all. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all such risk factors, nor can management assess the impact of all such factors on the Company's 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. All statements in this press release other than statements that are purely historical are forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend and assumes no obligation, to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. For further information, contact the company at [email protected]

SOURCE: Paragon Technologies, Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
AUSTIN, TX / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / Xtra Energy Corp. (OTC PINK:XTPT) is pleased to disclose the report on the interpretation of high-resolution satellite images carried out by Dirt Exploration at approximately 33 feet (10 meters) resolution for its American Antimony Project located in the Bernice Mining District of Churchill County, Nevada. Xtra Energy Corporation is an antimony exploration company focused on developing its flagship project, "American Antimony," approximately 31 miles northeast of Eastgate, Nevada. Xtra Energy Corporation holds 100% ownership in a 207-lode, 4276-acre antimony project surrounding the historically documented Antimony King Mine and covering all other documented antimony producers in the Bernice Mining District. The company is seeking to develop this expanding portfolio of antimony-rich assets to become a major supplier of antimony-based products.

Figure 1 : shows The American Antimony Project Layout - 207 Lode Claims/4276 Acres.

Figure 2 shows the spectral correlation produced by Dirt Exploration of potential antimony on the surface. Warmer colors indicate a stronger correlation between the spectral reflectance captured on the satellite imagery and potential antimony rich minerals.

DIRT Exploration, a remote sensing geoscience company headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa, completed an analysis using publicly available satellite imagery. The research combined Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR), Visible Near Infrared (VNIR), Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR), and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery into its analysis. LWIR analysis has the ability to map or identify mineral distribution over extensive areas through reflectance spectroscopy. Reflectance signatures captured on the satellite imagery are compared to databases of known mineral reflectance. The LWIR analysis can view mineral spectra at shallow depths thanks to its ground-penetrating nature and utilization of the long-wave bands of infrared radiation.

According to Mac J. Shahsavar, P. Eng., Chairman and CEO of XTPT, "As CEO, I'm happy to report our most recent test findings, which are nothing short of extraordinary. They not only highlight our team's dedication and hard work in locating this extraordinary deposit, but also represent a critical step forward in our mission to become America's sole producer of antimony."

Contact & Learn More:

Xtra Energy Corporation

Phone: 512-412-3636

Corporate Website: https://americanantimony.com/

Corporate Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtra-energy-corp/

Corporate Twitter: https://twitter.com/xtra_corp

Corporate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtraenergycorp/

Corporate Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093057374695

About Xtra Energy Corporation

Xtra Energy Corporation is an antimony exploration company focused on developing its flagship project "American Antimony", approximately 31 miles northeast of Eastgate, Nevada. Xtra Energy Corporation holds a 100% ownership in a 207 lode claim, 4276 acre antimony project surrounding the historically documented Antimony King Mine and covering all other documented antimony producers of the Bernice Mining District. The Company is seeking to develop this expanding portfolio of antimony-rich assets to become a major supplier of antimony based products.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events, including our ability to raise capital, or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause materially different results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

For a discussion of these risks and uncertainties, please see our filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc. Our public filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc are available from commercial document retrieval services and at the website maintained by the OTC Markets at https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/XTPT/disclosure.

SOURCE: Xtra Energy Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Seven private company boards have been honored with Private Company Boards of the Year awards for their business governance excellence by MLR Media. The awards will be presented at the 2024 Private Company Governance Summit, which will take place May 15-17, 2024, at the Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City, Washington, D.C.

The boards of these companies were selected for recognition:

Linqto Inc.

E.A. Sween Company

HEI Civil Inc.

Yakima Chief Hops

Restek Corporation

Cathedral Holdings Inc.

Golden Corral Corporation

Seven private companies were selected for the governance excellence demonstrated by their fiduciary boards. The awards, which will be presented at a dinner during the Private Company Governance Summit on May 16, 2024, honor private company boards that best serve their stakeholders  owners, shareholders, employees and community  with best practices in their structure and performance.

The awards were created to recognize private companies that go above and beyond legal governance requirements and commit to the highest levels of governance, whether through fiduciary or advisory boards. The awards honor the performance of the board as a whole.

The ninth annual awards recognize fiduciary boards (those tasked with protecting shareholders, with the authority to vote on decisions that are binding for company management) as well as advisory boards (more informal boards that have no binding regulations, but often a significant strategic role). The awards were broken down by company revenues and ownership type. Awards are not made in every category.

The Private Company Governance Summit, now in its twelfth year, is the only national conference focused on the unique governance challenges for owners, shareholders, directors and advisory board members of closely held, family-owned and private equity-owned companies. To learn more, visit www.privatecompanydirector.com.

The boards of the following companies were selected for recognition:

Linqto Inc.

San Jose, CA

Fiduciary Board/Investor-Owned

Less than $100 million in revenues

E.A. Sween Company

Eden Prairie, MN

Fiduciary Board/Family-Owned

$100 million to $350 million in revenues

HEI Civil Inc.

Castle Rock, CO

Fiduciary Board/Closely Held

$100 million to $350 million in revenues

Yakima Chief Hops

Yakima, WA

Fiduciary Board/Cooperative

$350 million to $1 billion in revenues

Restek Corporation

Bellefonte, PA

Fiduciary Board/ESOP

$100 million to $350 million in revenues

Cathedral Holdings Inc.

Lawrenceville, GA

Fiduciary Board/ESOP

$100 million to $350 million in revenues

Golden Corral Corporation

Raleigh, NC

Fiduciary Board/Family-Owned

More than $1 billion in revenues

About MLR Media

MLR Media publishes Directors & Boards, Family Business and Private Company Director magazines, FO Pro: The Family Office Professional information service and produces The Private Company Governance Summit, the Transitions (Spring and Fall) and Family Business Legacy conferences, Family Business NextGen, Transformational Women in Family Business, ALIGN: Connecting the Family and the Family Office and Character of the Corporation events.

https://events.privatecompanydirector.com/PCGS24

https://www.privatecompanydirector.com

https://www.mlrmedia.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327519814/en/

David Shaw, Publishing Director

Phone: 301.529.9808

Email: [email protected]

Source: MLR Media
BAY SHORE, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Air Industries Group (NYSE American: AIRI), a leading manufacturer of precision components and assemblies for large aerospace and defense prime contractors, today announced that it plans to release its preliminary Q4 fiscal and full-year 2023 results after the market closes on Monday, April 1, 2024.

Conference Call Information

At 4:30 ET that day, the Company will also host a conference call to discuss its results and 2024 Business Outlook. Individuals can access the call by dialing 877-524-8416. An audio replay of the call will be available on the Companys investor relations website shortly thereafter.

ABOUT AIR INDUSTRIES GROUP

Air Industries Group is a leading manufacturer of precision components and assemblies for large aerospace and defense prime contractors. Its products include landing gears, flight controls, engine mounts and components for aircraft jet engines, ground turbines and other complex machines. Whether it is a small individual component or complete assembly, its high quality and extremely reliable products are used in mission critical operations that are essential for the safety of military personnel and civilians.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain matters discussed in this press release are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In particular, the Companys statements regarding trends in the marketplace, future revenues, earnings and Adjusted EBITDA, the ability to realize firm backlog and projected backlog, cost cutting measures, potential future results and acquisitions, are examples of such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the timing of projects due to variability in size, scope and duration, the inherent discrepancy in actual results from estimates, projections and forecasts made by management, regulatory delays, changes in government funding and budgets, and other factors, including general economic conditions, not within the Companys control. The factors discussed herein and expressed from time to time in the Companys filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission could cause actual results and developments to be materially different from those expressed in or implied by such statements. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327189671/en/

Air Industries Group

Chief Financial Officer

631-328-7039

Anyone wishing to contact us or send a message can also do so by visiting: www.airindustriesgroup.com/contact-us/

Source: Air Industries Group
SINGAPORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of a- (Excellent) of PVI Insurance Corporation (PVI Insurance) (Vietnam). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. Additionally, AM Best has assigned the Vietnam National Scale Rating (NSR) of aaa.VN (Exceptional) to PVI Insurance with a stable outlook.

The ratings reflect PVI Insurances balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM). The ratings factor in rating enhancement from PVI Insurances ultimate parent, HDI Haftpflichtverband der Deutschen Industrie V.a.G. (HDI V.a.G.).

PVI Insurances balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Bests Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), which is expected to remain at the strongest level over the medium term. PVI Insurance benefits from good financial flexibility, given its majority ownership by HDI V.a.G. AM Best views the companys investment portfolio to be of moderate risk, with the majority of investments allocated toward cash and term deposits and the remainder held in non-rated corporate bonds, affiliated private equity investments and real estate. Offsetting factors include the companys high dividend payout ratio and high reinsurance dependence to support the underwriting of large commercial property, engineering and energy risks.

AM Best assesses PVI Insurances operating performance as strong, supported by its five-year average return-on-equity ratio of 17.9% (2019-2023). PVI Insurance continued to deliver robust underwriting profits in 2023 and achieved a combined ratio of 92.7%. Underwriting performance is expected to remain robust over the medium term supported by profitable results in commercial and industrial lines of business. Investment returns, consisting mainly of interest and dividend income, is expected to remain as a key contributor to the companys overall earnings.

AM Best assesses PVI Insurances business profile as neutral. The company became the largest non-life insurer in Vietnam based on 2022 direct premiums and it continues to grow its market share. The company has a strong market position in commercial and industrial lines of business, including energy, property, engineering, aviation and marine insurance, as supported by its affiliation with the PetroVietnam group, one of the largest state-owned oil and gas corporations in Vietnam. Support from HDI V.a.G. has enhanced PVI Insurance's technical expertise and service offerings, strengthening its position in the regional industrial risks insurance segment.

AM Best assesses PVI Insurances ERM approach as appropriate given the size and complexity of its current operations. PVI Insurance benefits from risk management and governance support from HDI V.a.G.

Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Bests website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Bests Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Bests Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Bests Credit Ratings, Bests Performance Assessments, Bests Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Bests Ratings & Assessments.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright  2024 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327081587/en/

Ong Xin Ya

Associate Financial Analyst

+65 6303 5024

[email protected]



Chris Lim, FCII, CFA

Associate Director, Analytics

+65 6303 5018

[email protected]



Christopher Sharkey

Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

[email protected]



Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

[email protected]

Source: AM Best
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AM Best has commented that the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of a- (Excellent) of Lombard International Assurance S.A. (LIA) (Luxembourg), remain unchanged following the announcement that the company had been fined by the Commissariat aux Assurances (CAA), its regulating body. Concurrently, AM Best has commented that the Long-Term ICR of bbb- (Good) of LIA Holdings Limited (Lombard International) (United Kingdom), a non-operating holding company, remains unchanged. The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is negative.

On 20 March 2024, the CAA indicated that LIA had been fined EUR 1.7 million in relation to shortcomings in the companys anti-money laundering (ALM) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) diligence processes identified during a regulatory audit between November 2021 and February 2022.

Based on preliminary financial indicators, AM Best considers the fine to be immaterial to LIA's earnings and solvency level. Furthermore, since the audit, LIA has initiated a compliance plan and taken a number of comprehensive corrective actions to strengthen its ALM and CTF diligence procedures and measures, in full cooperation with the CAA.

AM Best considers that the companys credit profile is unchanged as a result of this regulatory action. AM Best will continue to monitor closely LIAs rating fundamentals, including the developments of the companys enterprise risk management.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Bests website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Bests Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Bests Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Bests Credit Ratings, Bests Performance Assessments, Bests Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Bests Ratings & Assessments.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright  2024 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327075129/en/

Stanislav Stoev, ACCA, CFA

Senior Financial Analyst

+44 20 7397 0306

[email protected]



Ghislain Le Cam, CFA, FRM

Senior Director, Analytics

+44 20 7397 0268

[email protected]



Christopher Sharkey

Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

[email protected]



Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

[email protected]

Source: AM Best
The appointment of Pho ushers in a new era of female leadership at the 25-year-old legacy party brand

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Evite, the world's leading digital platform for bringing people together, is celebrating a groundbreaking moment with the appointment of Anda Pho as its first-ever female President. Taking the reins in 2024, Anda leads a team of remarkable women executives, marking a significant milestone for the company and the event planning industry.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327745156/en/

Anda Pho, President of Evite Photo Credit: Evite

Evite is the world's leading digital platform for bringing people together for life's celebrations. Since 1998, Evite has helped millions of people connect with friends and family to create personalized invitations and manage event details across devices. As a result, Evite facilitates billions of dollars in party-related purchases annually. Evite also believes in the power of giving back, having raised over $41 million for charitable organizations and nonprofits.

"Appointing Anda as Evite's President isn't just a historical moment, it's a strategic evolution for our company," said David Yeom, CEO of Evite. "Her focus on modernizing the user experience and developing innovative features will ensure that Evite remains the go-to platform for creating meaningful connections and celebrating life's moments, big and small."

Anda brings over 25 years of experience to Evite, having previously held executive positions at leading companies like POM Wonderful, Teleflora, and True&Co. As Chief Product Officer at Evite, she spearheaded a successful brand reinvention, modernizing the customer experience and prioritizing ease and customization.

With Anda at the helm, Evite is:

Driving innovative product development: Streamlined features like shareable links for quick invites and schedulable eGift cards add convenience and style to every celebration.

Celebrating moms and their expertise: This new mom-led team understands the needs of busy party planners and is committed to delivering solutions that fit seamlessly into their lives.

Staying ahead of party trends: From kid-themed favorites like Disney and Minecraft to sophisticated styles, Evite offers the perfect theme for every occasion.

Recognizing diverse journeys: The Parenthood Journey category offers themes for all stages of family planning, ensuring inclusivity and representation.

Giving back to the community: Evite remains committed to its charitable roots, having raised over $41 million for worthy causes.

A Trusted Resource for Party Planning

"I'm incredibly excited to lead this talented team as we continue to build upon Evite's legacy," said Anda Pho, President of Evite. "We're committed to providing innovative solutions that make connecting with loved ones easier and more joyful than ever before, while celebrating the diverse ways people choose to come together."

Evite remains the go-to resource for creating unforgettable gatherings, with a track record that includes 120+ million annual users, nearly three billion invitations to-date with billions of dollars in party-related purchases, and $41 million raised for charitable organizations and nonprofits.

About Evite

Evite is America's go-to destination for all things party. Since launching in 1998, Evite has elevated the standard for the event planning industry while evolving from an invitation company to a fully integrated ecosystem of customizable invitation and greeting card designs, RSVP tracking, event reminders, guest messaging and contact management. Evite brings together people to make celebrating face-to-face effortless and more memorable. To date, the company has sent nearly three billion invitations. Visit www.evite.com or download the app to start planning and get inspired.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327745156/en/

PR Contact:

Emily Tschirhart

[email protected]

Source: Evite
Shah joins Armanino initially leading the recruitment of Armaninos new India-based office to support global client base

SAN RAMON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Armanino LLP (Armanino), a top 20 national accounting and consulting firm, today announced it has hired accounting industry veteran, Shrenik Shah, as Managing Director. This hiring will directly support Armanino's ambition to provide clients with a global talent pool and act as the anchor in the firms India office. Shah joined in January and is now spearheading the India office recruitment and key office initiatives.

Shah, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in accounting and consulting, will play a pivotal role in identifying and spearheading strategic growth initiatives, recruiting talent and developing the firms office to enhance the services Armanino provides to its clients. Shah joins Armanino after previously leading Citrin Coopermans India office, where he successfully scaled their initiative from launch to over 300 employees.

Armaninos India office is designed to be an extension of our US footprint delivering the same level of quality, client-focused service were known for today, says Matt Armanino, CEO of Armanino. We believe that talent exists in all corners of the world and Shrenik is the best person to spearhead building out this office. We want to create lasting success which is why we believe that there is a significant strategic advantage to expanding our global workforce.

Armaninos commitment to not just maintaining but setting the standards for quality and innovation in our industry was a significant motivator for me and I am excited to begin contributing to that standard of excellence, says Shah. I am committed to building out the group with high-quality team members who drive tangible results, optimize our service delivery, and ensure Armanino remains at the forefront of the accounting and consulting sector internationally.

Armanino's expansion into India emphasizes the firms strategic integration of global talent and the commitment to driving innovation and excellence while fostering opportunity for long-term career development. Armaninos India office will bring the same unique culture and commitment to diversity and inclusion, including the firms successful mentorship and career growth programs such as the IDEAL program and the Accelerated Path to Manager Program. The Armanino Foundation will also provide grants and the same charitable opportunities for employees and the communities they live in.

Armaninos India team is actively seeking to hire over 100 full-time employees in its first year to service clients across a range of industries with capabilities in accounting, tax, audit support, consulting, advisory, and digital transformation initiatives, including AI. Armanino India employees will work across some of the firms most complex engagements. Armanino anticipates its Ahmedabad-based office will open in July of 2024.

Armanino is actively hiring for a variety of full-time roles. Those interested in job openings should visit: https://www.armanino.in/

About Armanino LLP

Armanino LLP is one of the 20 largest independent accounting and business consulting firms in the nation. A certified B Corporation, Armanino provides an integrated set of audit, tax, business management, consulting and technology solutions to companies in the U.S. and globally. The firm helps clients adapt and change in every stage of business, from startup through rapid growth to the sale of a company. Armanino emphasizes smart technology, leading a cloud revolution of financial, operational, sales and compliance tools that are transforming the way companies do business. Armanino is an independent member firm of Moore North America Inc. (MNA), which is itself a regional member of Moore Global Network Limited (MGNL), one of the worlds major accounting and consulting membership organizations. All the firms associated with MNA and MGNL are independent entities, owned and managed in each location. Their membership in, or association with, MNA or MGNL should not be construed as constituting or implying any partnership between them. In addition to its core consulting and accounting practices, Armanino operates its division, AMF Media Group (amfmediagroup.com), a media and communications services agency.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240321743438/en/

Trevor Davis, Gregory FCA for Armanino

215-475-5931

[email protected]

Source: Armanino LLP
Presentations Will Feature Studies Evaluating TENEO Excimer Laser Platform, MIEBO (Perfluorohexyloctane Ophthalmic Solution) and enVista Envy* and IC-8 Apthera IOLs

VAUGHAN, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Bausch + Lomb Corporation (NYSE/TSX: BLCO), a leading global eye health company dedicated to helping people see better to live better, today announced fifteen podium and four poster presentations during the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) annual meeting, which will take place in Boston, April 5-8, 2024.

Podium presentations include the results of studies evaluating the new TENEO Excimer Laser Platform, enVista and IC-8 Apthera intraocular lenses (IOLs) and MIEBO. MIEBO is indicated for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease. Poster presentations include the results of TENEO and IC-8 Apthera IOL studies.

In addition to these scientific presentations, the company will also sponsor educational events focused on these and other Bausch + Lomb products.

Bausch + Lomb activities at ASCRS:

Podium Presentations

Assessment of the Spectacle Independence and Visual Outcomes Following Bilateral Implantation of a Novel Toric IOL* Among Cataract Patients. Harasymowycz et al.

Harasymowycz et al. Binocularity and Stereoacuity in Modern Monovision with a Small-Aperture IOL. Wiley et al.

Wiley et al. Characterization of Discontinuation and Switching Patterns of Dry Eye Disease Medications Using Linked EHR Registry and Claims Data. Mbagwu et al.

Mbagwu et al. Clinical Results of Small-Aperture IOL Implantation Following Corneal Inlay Removal. Ang et al.

Ang et al. Defocus Curve Performance of a Novel Hydrophobic Acrylic Trifocal Intraocular Lens*: A Prospective, Multicenter Canadian Study. Muzychuk et al.

Muzychuk et al. Early Real World Outcomes of Small Aperture IOL in Post Refractive Eyes. Hu et al.

Hu et al. Outcomes of an Ultra-Low Cylinder Powered (0.90 D) Toric versus Non-Toric IOL in Low Astigmatic Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery. Muzychuk et al.

Muzychuk et al. Patient-Reported Instillation Comfort and Eyedrop Acceptability of Perfluorohexyloctane Ophthalmic Solution in Pivotal Clinical Studies. White et al.

White et al. Patient-Reported Outcomes Following LASIK, Performed Using a Novel Excimer Laser for the Correction of Myopia and Myopic Astigmatism. Stonecipher et al.

Stonecipher et al. Perfluorohexyloctane Ophthalmic Solution for Dry Eye Disease: Efficacy Among Various Participant Subgroups in Pivotal Clinical Trials. Sheppard et al.

Sheppard et al. Predicted In-Vitro versus In-vivo Measurements of Higher-Order Corneal Aberrations following Apthera Implantation Post Radial Keratotomy. Devaro et al.

Devaro et al. Quality of Vision and Clinical Outcomes of a Novel Trifocal IOL* Implanted Bilaterally After Cataract Surgery: A Canadian Multicenter Study. Harasymowycz et al.

Harasymowycz et al. Subjective versus Objective Depth of Focus from Ray-Tracing Aberrometry in Small Aperture Optics Intraocular Lens in Eyes with Aberrated Corneas. Barros et al.

Barros et al. Visual and Refractive Outcomes following Bilateral Implantation of a Novel Trifocal* or Monofocal IOL: A Prospective, Multicenter US study. Liang et al.

Liang et al. Visual Performance of Negative versus Neutral Aspheric Monofocal Intraocular Lenses: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Kudrna et al.

Poster Presentations

Binocular Visual Outcomes and Defocus Curve of Bilaterally Implanted Novel Trifocal Intraocular Lens*: A Prospective, Multicenter US study. Shultz et al.

Shultz et al. Estimation of Visual Benefit with IC-8 in Keratoconus Patients. Klyce et al.

Klyce et al. Initial Results Using Small Aperture Optics IOL in Patients with or without Prior Ocular Surgery, Corneal Scarring or Irregular Astigmatism. Shultz et al.

Shultz et al. Outcomes of LASIK Performed Using the Updated Laser Ablation Algorithm for the Correction of Myopia and Myopic Astigmatism. Chu et al.

Featured Educational Events

Friday, April 5

Rethinking Dry Eye Disease: A Contemporary Approach to a Complex Condition

7:15-9:15 p.m. ET at Davio's Seaport (26 Fan Pier, Boston)

The program will feature the dynamic duo of Laura Periman, M.D., and Darrell White, M.D., who will discuss MIEBO and XIIDRA (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5%.

Saturday, April 6

Refractive Redefined: TENEO, the New FDA Approved Excimer Laser

3:00-3:50 p.m. ET in the at the Boston Convention & Exhibit Center (415 Summer Street, Boston; ASCRS Tap Room)

Join George Waring IV, M.D., to learn more about the accuracy, efficiency and usability advantages of TENEO, the first excimer laser platform approved in nearly two decades.

Innovations in DED and Novel Cataract Surgery Technologies

6:30-8:00 p.m. ET at the Omni Boston at the Seaport (450 Summer Street, Boston; Momentum Ballroom, Level 5)

Join moderator Eric Donnenfeld, M.D., along with presenters Marjin Farid, M.D., Ravi Patel, M.D., and Karl Stonecipher, M.D., to learn more about the benefits of and differences between MIEBO and XIIDRA, as well as the benefits of using the new enVista Aspire lens for doctors and their patients.

Sunday, April 7

Innovators Session

Featuring Andrew Stewart, President, Global Pharmaceuticals and International Consumer

10:00am11:30am, ASCRS Main Stage

*enVista Envy is pending PMA approval and is not approved for sale in the United States or its territories

###

Important Safety Information for MIEBO

INDICATION

MIEBO (perfluorohexyloctane ophthalmic solution) is used to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Patients should remove contact lenses before using MIEBO and wait for at least 30 minutes before reinserting.

It is important for patients to use MIEBO exactly as prescribed.

It is not known if MIEBO is safe and effective in children under the age of 18.

The most common eye side effect seen in studies was blurred vision (1% to 3 % of patients reported blurred vision and eye redness).

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Click here for full Prescribing Information for MIEBO.

WHAT IS XIIDRA?

XIIDRA (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5% is a prescription eye drop used to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not use XIIDRA if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Seek medical care immediately if you get any symptoms of an allergic reaction.

The most common side effects of XIIDRA include eye irritation, discomfort or blurred vision when the drops are applied to the eyes, and an unusual taste sensation.

To help avoid eye injury or contamination of the solution, do not touch the container tip to your eye or any surface. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using XIIDRA and wait for at least 15 minutes before placing them back in your eyes.

It is not known if XIIDRA is safe and effective in children under 17 years of age.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Click here for full Prescribing Information for XIIDRA.

Indications and Important Safety Information for Technolas Teneo 317 Model 2 System

Indications for Use. The Technolas Teneo 317 Model 2 is indicated for laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in: (1) Patients for the reduction or elimination of myopic astigmatism up to -10.00 D MRSE, with sphere between -1.00 D and cylinder between 0.00 and -3.00 D; (2) Patients who are 22 years of age or older; (3) Patients must have a stable refraction in the last 12 months, as documented by previous clinical recordings, i.e., the spherical and cylindrical portions of the manifest distance refraction have not progressed at a rate of more than 0.50 D per year prior to the baseline examination in the eye(s) to be treated.

WARNING. Danger of injury due to failure to observe the patient selection criteria! Failure to observe the contraindications and potential adverse effects may result in serious permanent patient injury. The usage of the laser system is limited to a specific field of applications. Observe the contraindications and potential adverse effects listed in the User Manual before selecting a patient and starting any treatment.

Contraindications. Contraindications of the Technolas Teneo 317 Model 2 include patients: (1) with any type of active connective tissue disease or autoimmune disease; (2) with signs of keratoconus, abnormal corneal topography, and degenerations of the structure of the cornea (including but not limited to pellucid marginal degeneration); (3) with significant dry eyes (severe Dry Eye Syndrome). If patients have severely dry eyes, LASIK may increase the dryness. This may or may not go away. Severe eye dryness may delay healing of the flap or interfere with the surface of the eye after surgery. It may result in poor vision after LASIK; (4) for whom the combination of their baseline corneal thickness and the planned operative parameters for the LASIK procedure would result in less than 250 of residual corneal thickness from corneal endothelium; (5) with uncontrolled diabetes; (6) with uncontrolled glaucoma; (7) with active eye infections or active inflammation: (8) with recent herpes eye infection or problems resulting from past infections; (9) with known sensitivity to medications used for standard LASIK surgery.

Potential Risks and Side Effects: (1) Miscreated flap; (2) Subconjunctival hemorrhage or bleeding; (3) Wrinkles in flap that may require a flap lift; (4) Corneal erosion/abrasion, epithelia defect; (5) Elevated IOP; (6) Debris or foreign body under flap; (7) Epithelial ingrowth under flap; (8) Debilitating visual symptoms, especially at night; (9) Decreased or fluctuating visual acuity; (10) Decreased ability to see in low-light conditions; (11) Light sensitivity; (12) Dry Eye syndrome; (13) Inadequate treatment result; (14) Regression; (15) Corneal damage; (16) Posterior vitreous detachment or retinal detachment, floaters or vascular accidents; (17) Foreign body sensation or pain (initial postoperative days); also, potentially including chronic eye pain that is resistant to therapy referred to as neuropathic pain; (18) Infection/inflammation; (19) CTK (Central Toxic Keratopathy); (20) Medication intolerance; (21) Ptosis; (22) Cataract; (23) Ocular penetration; (24) Potential risk of psychological harm.

This is not all you need to know. Please see the User Manual for a complete list of safety information, including a full list of contraindications, warnings, precautions and risks.

Caution: Federal (U.S.) law restricts this device to sale, by or on the order of a physician.

Indications and Important Safety Information for IC-8 Apthera IOL

INDICATIONS: The IC-8 Apthera IOL is indicated for unilateral implantation for the visual correction of aphakia and to create monovision in patients of age 22 or older who have been diagnosed with bilateral operable cataract, who have up to 1.5 D of astigmatism in the implanted eye, and who do not have a history of retinal disease and who are not predisposed to experiencing retinal disease in the future. The device is intended for primary implantation in the capsular bag, in the non-dominant eye, after the fellow eye has already undergone successful implantation (uncorrected distance visual acuity 20/32 or better and best-corrected distance visual acuity 20/25 or better) of a monofocal or monofocal toric IOL that is targeted for emmetropia. The refractive target for the IC-8 Apthera IOL should be -0.75 D. The lens mitigates the effects of presbyopia by providing an extended depth of focus. Compared to an aspheric monofocal or monofocal toric IOL, the lens provides improved intermediate and near visual acuity, while maintaining comparable distance visual acuity.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: (1) Patients with dilated pupil size less than 7.0 mm. (2) Patients with a history of retinal disease including but not limited to, high myopia, diabetes, macular disease, sickle cell disease, retinal tear, retinal detachment, retinal vein occlusion, ocular tumor, uveitis, and patients who are predisposed to experiencing retinal disease in the future.

WARNINGS: The lens should not be implanted if appropriate intraocular support of the lens is not possible. Severe subjective visual disturbances (e.g., glare, halo, starburst, hazy vision) may occur after device implantation. There is a possibility that these visual disturbances may be significant enough that a patient may request removal of the lens. Contrast sensitivity in eyes implanted with this lens is significantly reduced when compared to the fellow eye implanted with a monofocal or monofocal toric IOL. Although there was no significant reduction in binocular contrast sensitivity in the IDE clinical study, it is essential that prospective patients be fully informed of this visual effect in the implanted eye before giving their consent for unilateral implantation of the lens. Patients should be informed that they may need to exercise caution when engaging in activities that require good vision in dimly lit environments (such as driving at night or in poor visibility conditions). There is a possibility that visual symptoms due to reduced contrast sensitivity may be significant enough that a patient may request removal of the lens. This lens should not be implanted bilaterally because bilateral implantation is expected to cause significant reduction in contrast sensitivity under all lighting conditions. The use of this lens in patients with corneal astigmatism greater than 1.5 D is not recommended. Diagnostic tests in patients implanted with the lens may take longer and require some additional effort from the patient and the physician to perform. Use of some medical lasers to treat certain eye conditions may present potential risks of damaging the FilterRing component of the lens. Removal of the lens may be necessary prior to retinal or vitreal procedures. Surgeons should perform a careful benefit-risk assessment based on individual patient characteristics, weighing all the risks disclosed in the Directions for Use labeling against the benefit of extended depth of focus. Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy treatments may be more difficult to perform and may be less effective in an IC-8 Apthera IOL implanted eye. Specific training from Bausch & Lomb, Inc. or its authorized representative related to YAG capsulotomy is required before a surgeon is authorized to implant the IC-8 Apthera IOL.

PRECAUTIONS: Prior to surgery, prospective patients should be informed of the possible risks and benefits associated with this lens and a Patient Information Brochure should be provided to the patient. Patients with a predicted postoperative astigmatism between 1.0 D and 1.5 D may not obtain as great an amount of improvement in intermediate vision compared to patients with lower amounts of astigmatism.

CAUTION: Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a licensed physician.

ATTENTION: Reference the Directions for Use labeling for a complete listing of important safety information.

About Bausch + Lomb

Bausch + Lomb is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the gift of sight for millions of people around the world  from birth through every phase of life. Its comprehensive portfolio of approximately 400 products includes contact lenses, lens care products, eye care products, ophthalmic pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter products and ophthalmic surgical devices and instruments. Founded in 1853, Bausch + Lomb has a significant global research and development, manufacturing and commercial footprint with approximately 13,000 employees and a presence in nearly 100 countries. Bausch + Lomb is headquartered in Vaughan, Ontario with corporate offices in Bridgewater, New Jersey. For more information, visit www.bausch.com and connect with us on X, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Forward-looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements, which may generally be identified by the use of the words anticipates, hopes, expects, intends, plans, should, could, would, may, believes, estimates, potential, target, or continue and variations or similar expressions. These statements are based upon the current expectations and beliefs of management and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties discussed in Bausch + Lombs filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Canadian Securities Administrators, which factors are incorporated herein by reference. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. Bausch + Lomb undertakes no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news release or to reflect actual outcomes, unless required by law.

2024 Bausch + Lomb.

MTB.0113.USA.24

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327222498/en/

Media:

Caryn Marshall

[email protected]

(908) 493-1381

Investor:

George Gadkowski

[email protected]

(877) 354-3705 (toll free)

(908) 927-0735

Source: Bausch + Lomb Corporation
A statewide partnership that includes Columbus Area United Way, Community and Family Partnership and Bring Up Nebraska is working to color area communities blue in April for Child Abuse Prevention Month. These groups are hoping to raise awareness of the importance of community-based support for all children and families.

As part of these prevention efforts, the community is urged to wear blue on Friday, April 5, to show support for child abuse prevention month. Gather your co-workers, friends and family to post your blue photo to the local CFP Child Abuse Prevention Council Facebook group. The council will determine their favorites and award plaques to those chosen.

Engaged and supportive citizens and communities within Nebraska have the power to prevent many of the situations and conditions where child abuse and neglect occurs. Child abuse and neglect can be reduced by making sure each family has the knowledge, resources, skills and support they need to provide a healthy, safe and nurturing environment for all of Nebraskas children.

Abbi Shanle with Faith Regional Health Services Child Advocacy Center shares the importance of focusing on prevention.

Child abuse is one of the leading community health problems facing children today, and the frightening truth is that children are most often abused by someone they know and trust, Shanle said in a news release. One in 10 children will be sexually abused by their 18th birthday, and one in nine children experience online exploitation. While alarming, these statistics paint a picture of a community problem that requires a collaborative response.

The Faith Regional Health Services Child Advocacy Center works with many community partners, including law enforcement, prosecutors, child protective services, advocates, mental health providers, medical providers and others to address child abuse in our communities," Shanle said. "We look to other adults working with children to be informed and say something if they suspect child abuse. Everyone in Nebraska is a mandatory reporter, and we encourage you to say something if you see something. You can make a difference in the life of a child!

Effective child abuse prevention activities succeed when families are supported before there is a need to call child protective service. Positive change and impact occur when a community is willing to listen and act on the wisdom and lessons that those with personal experience are willing to share and teach. These efforts also succeed because of partnerships created among state, regional and local health and social service agencies, as well as those in the community including faith and medical communities, schools, civic organizations, law enforcement agencies and the business sector.

"Raising awareness about the child abuse issues in our area is very important. It takes every community member to identify the possibility of child abuse and report it," CASA Connection Executive Director Susan Jarecki said in the release. "Our law enforcement officers cannot help if they do not know where help is needed. When you see blue pinwheels, jars, shirts or signs in April, remember that it takes every person in our community to help prevent child abuse, one small action at a time.
Former Eventbrite CTO to bolster top construction and real estate finance software providers leadership team and connected platform vision

NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Built, a software platform designed to connect and simplify doing business in real estate, today announced the appointment of technology industry veteran Pat Poels as Senior Vice President of Engineering, effective immediately. Poels joins the executive team and is responsible for setting engineering priorities, driving innovation, ensuring product quality, and collaborating to deliver solutions for lenders, owners, developers, and general contractors within the built environment.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327256213/en/

Built, a software platform designed to connect and simplify doing business in real estate, has appointed technology industry veteran Pat Poels to lead engineering at the company. (Photo: Business Wire)

"We're excited to welcome Pat to Built! His deep experience in both consumer and enterprise SaaS, combined with an extensive background in leading global teams and navigating rapid growth, makes him a perfect fit for what we have been looking for, said Chase Gilbert, CEO of Built. "As we broaden our platform to include owners, developers, and general contractors, and introduce more advanced solutions for lenders, the level of expertise he brings will be crucial for turning these ideas into tangible solutions that deliver meaningful value to our customers.

Pat joins Built from Snyk, a developer-first security platform, supporting secure application development for over 2,500 global customers, including tech giants like Google and Salesforce. Prior to joining Snyk, Pat was CTO for Eventbrite, where he led the development of highly dependable platforms, managed global engineering functions during periods of hyper-growth, and played a key role in their successful IPO.

Built stands out in the construction and real estate industry for its use of transformative technology to enhance the projects that define where we live, work, and play, said Pat Poels, SVP of Engineering at Built. The essential nature of this work, along with the companys focus on people and customer success, confirmed for me that this was a unique chance to drive meaningful change in an industry that has been underserved for too long.

Poels is based out of Builts headquarters in Nashville.

About Built

Built is a leading provider of construction and real estate finance technology used by nearly half of the top 100 construction lenders in the U.S. By making it simple to connect and do business in real estate, Built enables increased efficiency, collaboration, transparency, and business agilityallowing customers to build and manage the communities around us more profitably and with more confidence. Built is used by hundreds of leading North American lenders and asset managers, and thousands of developers, home builders, and contractors. Built has a quarter of a trillion in real estate dollars being actively managed on its platform, representing approximately 10% of all U.S. construction spend. To learn more, visit www.getbuilt.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327256213/en/

Built

Nick Halliwell

[email protected]

Source: Built
DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- On 22 November 2023, CRH plc announced that it had reached an agreement to divest its lime operations in Europe for a total consideration of c.$1.1 billion. CRH is pleased to announce that the second phase of the transaction, comprising the Groups lime operations in the UK, is now complete.

About CRH

CRH (NYSE: CRH, LSE: CRH) is the leading provider of building materials solutions that build, connect and improve our world. Employing c.78,500 people at c.3,390 operating locations in 29 countries, CRH has market leadership positions in both North America and Europe. As the essential partner for transportation and critical utility infrastructure projects, complex non-residential construction and outdoor living solutions, CRHs unique offering of materials, products and value-added services helps to deliver a more resilient and sustainable built environment. The company is ranked among sector leaders by Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) rating agencies. A Fortune 500 company, CRHs shares are listed on the NYSE and LSE.

Registered Office: No 12965. Registered Office: 42 Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin 2, R02 R279, Ireland

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327001063/en/

Contact CRH at +353 1 404 1000

Albert Manifold, Chief Executive

Jim Mintern, Chief Financial Officer

Frank Heisterkamp, Director of Capital Markets & ESG

Tom Holmes, Head of Investor Relations

Source: CRH
EDISON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- MTF Biologics, a global nonprofit organization that saves and heals lives by honoring donated gifts, serving patients, and advancing the science of tissue transplantation, has announced the appointment of Mia Talmor, MD, to the MTF Biologics Board of Directors.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327225210/en/

Dr. Mia Talmor, Professor of Clinical Surgery at The Weill Cornell Medical School and attending surgeon at New York Presbyterian Hospital, has joined the MTF Biologics Board of Directors. (Photo: Business Wire)

We are honored to welcome Dr. Talmor to the MTF Board, said William W. Tomford, MD, Chairman of the MTF Biologics Board of Directors. Dr. Talmor is a pioneering female surgeon who brings excellence in surgical practice and scientific research to MTF. As MTFs allografts are used in increasingly diverse types of surgeries and clinical applications, her expertise will be critical to advancing the Foundation's mission.

Dr. Talmor brings a legacy of groundbreaking achievements in plastic surgery, said Joe Yaccarino, MTF Biologics President and CEO. Her trailblazing career, marked by innovative research, advanced surgical techniques, and emphasis on high-standard patient care, will be a pivotal contribution to our growth at MTF Biologics.

Talmor is a Professor of Clinical Surgery at The Weill Cornell Medical School and an attending surgeon at New York Presbyterian Hospital. She specializes in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery and offers the most technologically advanced procedures available to enhance the appearance and self-esteem of her patients. Her most recent research focuses on new techniques in breast and cosmetic surgery, safety issues related to cosmetic surgery, as well as new technologies.

Talmor graduated from Cornell University Medical College with a Doctor of Medicine with honors in research in 1993. In 1996, she was appointed a research fellow after receiving the American College of Surgeons Resident Research Scholarship. She worked under Dr. Ralph Steinman at Rockefeller University in New York, who was awarded the Noble Prize in Medicine in 2011.

The first female surgeon appointed to the full-time faculty of the Division of Plastic Surgery at New York Presbyterian Hospital and the first female plastic surgeon to be promoted to full professor, Talmor is one of the few double Board-certified surgeons in the country. She is a diplomat of both the American Board of Surgery and American Board of Plastic Surgery, having completed the recertification process with both Boards in 2011 and 2022.

In addition to her excellence as a plastic surgeon, Talmor has distinguished herself in the scientific community through her research, scientific presentations and publications. She has received numerous prestigious grants and awards from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American College of Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, New York Regional Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, as well as from the National Institutes of Health. She has authored more than 60 scientific papers and five book chapters and has made numerous scientific presentations.

Talmor has been recognized by New York Magazine as a Best Doctor and by Castle Connolly as a Top Doctor for Cancer since 2013. She was an inaugural recipient of the Exceptional Women in Medicine award in 2017. She appears regularly in media outlets including Dr. Oz, The Today Show, CBS This Morning, Rachel Ray, Vogue and The New York Times. In 2021 she was recommended by Goops Guide to Breast Surgery.

Talmor has represented New York Presbyterian on MTF Biologics Medical Board of Trustees since 2018 and served in various leadership positions including Chair of the Education Committee and Nominations Committee. She is currently the Vice-Chair of the Medical Board of Trustees.

About MTF Biologics

MTF Biologics is a global nonprofit organization that saves and heals lives by honoring donated gifts, serving patients and advancing science. It provides unmatched service, resources, and expertise to donors and their loved ones who give the gift of donation, people who depend on tissue and organ transplants, healthcare providers, and clinicians and scientists.

The International Institute for the Advancement of Medicine (IIAM), a Division of MTF Biologics, honors donors of non-transplantable organs by providing their gifts to the medical research community to combat and cure diseases. Statline, also a Division of MTF Biologics, provides specialized communications and technology expertise to organ, tissue, and eye procurement organizations, as well as the hospitals and patients that they serve. Its sister organization, Deutsches Institute for Zell-und Gewebeersatz  DIZG (The German Institute for Cell and Tissue Transplantation) expands its reach to patients across the globe. For more information, visit www.mtfbiologics.org.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327225210/en/

Media contact:

Aleksa Loch

[email protected]

Source: MTF Biologics
OSLO, Norway--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Elliptic Labs (OSE: ELABS), a global AI software company and the world leader in AI Virtual Smart Sensors currently deployed in over 500 million devices, has signed a license agreement with Xiaomi, the third-largest smartphone manufacturer in the world. With this new contract, Xiaomi will be utilizing Elliptic Labs AI Virtual Proximity Sensor INNER BEAUTY as its proximity detection solution on several future smartphones.

With this new contract, our relationship with Xiaomi now spans over eight years across (57) shipped models, said Laila Danielsen, CEO of Elliptic Labs. The collaboration between Elliptic Labs and Xiaomi has generated industry-defining innovation and design. From the original Mi Mix smartphone introducing a bezel-less full-screen concept to the just announced Civi 4 Pro continuing, this new contract means that Elliptic Labs and Xiaomi will continue this legacy for creating smarter, greener, and more human-friendly devices.

INNER BEAUTY is a registered trademark of Elliptic Labs.

AI Virtual Smart Sensor, AI Virtual Proximity Sensor, and AI Virtual Smart Sensor Platform are trademarks of Elliptic Labs.

All other trademarks or service marks are the responsibility of their respective organizations.

About Elliptic Labs

Elliptic Labs is a global enterprise targeting the smartphone, laptop, IoT, and automotive markets. Founded in 2006 as a research spin-off from Norways Oslo University, the companys patented software uses AI, ultrasound and sensor fusion to deliver intuitive 3D gesture, proximity-, presence-, breathing- and heartbeat-detection experiences. Its scalable AI Virtual Smart Sensor Platform creates software-only sensors that are sustainable, human-friendly and already deployed in hundreds of millions of devices around the world. Elliptic Labs is the only software company that has delivered detection capabilities using AI software, ultrasound, and sensor fusion deployed at scale. The company joined the Oslo Brs main listing in March 2022.

Elliptic Labs is headquartered in Norway with presence in the USA, China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. Its technology and IP are developed in Norway and are solely owned by the company.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326081037/en/

PR Contacts:

Patrick Tsui

[email protected]

Investor Relations:

Lars Holmy

[email protected]

Source: Elliptic Labs
Leading the way to eliminate the retirement access gap in the U.S.

Public policy, technology driving new plan formation to expand retirement system

GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Empower today is unveiling new plans to launch a digital solution that will remove access barriers and give more small employers the ability to establish workplace retirement plans for their employees.

Launching mid-2024, the new 401(k) offering presents advisors and third-party administrators (TPAs) with a new means of setting up a retirement plan with an employer that reduces complexity and cost while streamlining administrative duties. The new program  called Ready Select  is designed for small and start-up plans with up to $1 million in assets.

Historically, complexity and administrative burdens have presented barriers to the creation of workplace retirement plans for small employers and start-up companies. Management teams are often busy with the needs of growing their business, and taking on the additional work of providing retirement benefits can be daunting. According to the Small Business Administration, there are an estimated 33.2 million small businesses in the United States and approximately 62 million individuals who work for these employers.1 These employers represent many of the estimated 33 percent2 to 50 percent3 of private sector workers who are not currently covered by a workplace retirement plan.

This game-changing innovation from Empower delivers retirement services to more American workers who deserve the chance to have a secure retirement, said Empower President and CEO Edmund F. Murphy III. The time to eliminate the access gap is now, and were taking this head on.

We have the technology, the know-how and the support of advisor and TPA partners to address this problem for the millions of Americans who need a retirement plan, said Murphy.

Murphy applauded the public-private partnership that is inherent in the nations workplace savings system, which has played a critical role in helping to narrow the access gap.

In recent years, Congress has passed legislation known as the 2019 SECURE Act and the 2022 SECURE 2.0 Act, which have made retirement plans more accessible to more workers. For example, the retirement plan coverage rate of the lowest-income families increased by 25% during the three-year-period of 2019-2022  more than double the growth rate of any other income segment during the period, including years immediately following the enactment of the SECURE Act of 2019.4

Together, Congress and retirement industry advocates have created terrific improvements that create the opportunity for workplace retirement plans to become much more accessible, said Rich Linton, President and Chief Operating Officer at Empower. We know that through highly effective public policy and on-going investments in innovation we can further reduce employer burdens and take down barriers of entry into the retirement system, said Linton.

Ready Select from Empower

Ready Select offers a streamlined, end-to-end 401(k) plan set-up process that simplifies plan features and design decision points. The system includes integrated investment advisory services through a third party ERISA fiduciary. The new application helps to reduce the implementation timeline, financial and administrative cost of sponsoring a 401(k) plan for small employers, so that advisors can help business owners spend less time administering their workplace benefits.

After working with an advisor or TPA to generate an on-demand proposal and complete plan setup, small business owners and employees gain access to the same award-winning digital experience, financial wellness, and education programs that Empower provides to some of the nations largest corporate, non-profit, and governmental plans.

Ready Select derives its name from Empower Select, a market-leading plan solution that pairs time-saving service and administrative features, with a comprehensive marketplace of investment products.

Advisors and TPAs who use Ready Select will have the ability to help support small employers with cost-effective retirement plan choices that best meets the needs of their workforce, said Executive Vice President for Core Markets for Empower, Joseph Smolen, Governing Board Chair of the SPARK Institute, a retirement industry advocacy organization. These partners know how to help employers and Empower stands ready to help them bring their know-how to new plans.

About Empower

Recognized as the second-largest retirement services provider in the U.S.5 by total participants, Empower administers approximately $1.5 trillion in assets for more than 18.5 million investors6 through the provision of retirement plans, advice, wealth management and investments. Connect with us on empower.com, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram.

Securities, when presented, are offered and/or distributed by Empower Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. EFSI is an affiliate of Empower Retirement, LLC; Empower Funds, Inc.; and registered investment adviser Empower Advisory Group, LLC. This material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide investment, legal, or tax recommendations or advice.

Empower refers to the products and services offered by Empower Annuity Insurance Company of America and its subsidiaries. EMPOWER and all associated logos and product names are trademarks of Empower Annuity Insurance Company of America.

2024 Empower Retirement, LLC. All rights reserved. WF-3267103-0324 RO-3471208-0324

Learn more:

To learn more about how were empowering plan sponsors and their participants to be more engaged in their retirement plans than ever before, call us at 800-719-9914.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327792249/en/

Stephen Gawlik - [email protected]

Mandy Cassano - [email protected]

Source: Empower
WOKINGHAM, England--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ferguson plc (NYSE: FERG, LSE: FERG) (the Company) announces today that it purchased a total of 70,692 of its ordinary shares in the period from March 18, 2024, up to and including March 22, 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 March 18, 2024 600 207.8217 ARCX March 18, 2024 100 208.3700 BATS March 18, 2024 500 207.9060 CDRG March 18, 2024 300 207.8400 KNLI March 18, 2024 800 207.8900 XNAS March 18, 2024 13,430 207.9199 XNYS March 19, 2024 405 211.2850 ARCX March 19, 2024 600 212.2817 XNAS March 19, 2024 12,862 212.0464 XNYS March 20, 2024 300 216.3533 ARCX March 20, 2024 200 215.9700 BATS March 20, 2024 100 216.5000 XBOS March 20, 2024 600 216.3350 XNAS March 20, 2024 13,000 216.2698 XNYS March 21, 2024 493 217.8179 ARCX March 21, 2024 400 221.0475 XNAS March 21, 2024 9,792 219.3603 XNYS March 22, 2024 457 221.3325 ARCX March 22, 2024 100 221.6300 BATS March 22, 2024 76 221.2400 XCIS March 22, 2024 716 221.2882 XNAS March 22, 2024 14,861 221.3554 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 29,574,094.

Following the purchase of these shares, the remaining number of ordinary shares in issue will be 202,597,088. The figure of 202,597,088 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/20240327722202/en/

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

Source: Ferguson plc
FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- GENERAL MOTORS FINANCIAL COMPANY, INC. (GM Financial or the Company) will release its first quarter 2024 operating results on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

The press release and earnings presentation for fixed income investors will be posted to the Investor Relations section of the Companys website at www.gmfinancial.com. Questions on the materials should be directed to GM Financials Investor Relations Department.

The companys subsequent earnings announcements are scheduled as follows:

Q2 2024  Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Q3 2024  Tuesday, October 22, 2024

About GM Financial

General Motors Financial Company, Inc. is the wholly owned captive finance subsidiary of General Motors Company and is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. For more information, visit www.gmfinancial.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326188141/en/

Investor Relations contact:

Meagan Trampe

Vice President, Investor Relations

(817) 302-7385

[email protected]

Source: General Motors Financial Company, Inc.
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Go!Foton, a world leader in optical fiber networking solutions for service providers and data centers, will be showcasing its latest breakthrough in Dual Distributed Acoustic Sensing (Dual DAS) for precision network surveillance at this years Optical Fiber Communications Conference and Exposition (OFC). The Conference will be held at the San Diego Convention Center from March 25-28th.

Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) is a photonics-based technology that transforms fiber-optic cables into sensors - virtual microphones  which detect sound waves caused by minor changes in the fiber, offering immediate insights into the fiber's surroundings. By sending light pulses through the fibers (light or dark) and analyzing the reflected light (Rayleigh Scattering), DAS can continuously monitor vibrations along the cable without affecting telecom services.

Combined with Optical Time-Domain Reflectometers (OTDR), DAS captures changes in light reflection caused by external factors, providing critical information about the acoustic environment around the fiber. Over the past few decades, this technology has supported essential monitoring applications for the transportation, energy, law enforcement, healthcare, environmental, and smart cities sectors.

Go!Foton will demonstrate two novel improvements to traditional DAS implementations by simultaneously entangling multiple locations in a fiber network using both optical power meters and polarization OTDRs while wasting no optical energy in either transmitted power or Rayleigh back-scattering power. The result is an intelligent mesh network capable of monitoring Rayleigh backscatter in both directions along the length of an optical fiber as well as the incident power level at remote locations.

According to Go!Foton CTO Dr. David Z. Chen, The Go!Foton Dual-DAS represents a major advance in photonics which will allow future optical networks to be surveilled with a degree of precision never before imagined, especially when leveraged with generative AI capabilities and machine learning. Dual-DAS deployments will dramatically improve network performance and reliability and will generate significant reductions in OPEX by allowing a more predictive and proactive approach to dealing with perturbations in the layer 0 physical infrastructure.

Go!Foton is located at OFC booth #2813. A working dual-DAS prototype will be on full display for those inclined to come and explore the limitless possibilities.

Go!Foton (www.GoFoton.com) brings innovation to the market with proven expertise in optics and photonics that solves real world problems for its customers with a scalable and customized approach. The company serves the telecom and data center markets with long haul, metro, and broadband wireline and wireless access applications, and also supplies optical materials and components to the imaging, medical, and instrumentation industries. A global enterprise with sales offices in the U.S., Europe, and Japan, Go!Foton maintains R&D and manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Japan, China, and the Philippines.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326264359/en/

Jeff Stambovsky

Go!Foton

[email protected]

Source: Go!Foton
GOLDEN, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Golden Minerals Company (Golden Minerals, Golden or the Company) (NYSE-A: AUMN and TSX: AUMN) announced today that Barrick Gold Corporation (Barrick) notified the Company it is withdrawing from an Earn-In Agreement (the Agreement) on the El Quevar silver project (Salta province, Argentina) which the two parties signed in April 2020. The termination will be effective on April 20, 2024.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327707450/en/

El Quevar District Map (Graphic: Business Wire)

Golden Minerals President and Chief Executive Officer, Warren Rehn, commented today, The timing of the return of the El Quevar project is fortuitous and quite favorable to the Company as we pivot from production to exploration and development. The El Quevar property is one of the largest contiguous high sulfidation alteration systems in northern Argentina and presents a very prospective opportunity to the Company in further advancing the high-grade Yaxtche silver deposit as well as advancing the newly identified gold prospect just to the south.

To date, Barrick has spent more than $6.0 million of work expenditures at El Quevar and has completed a five-hole, 1,300-meter drill program that identified a potential gold prospect in the central Eastern part of Quevars land package. That report noted the presence of vuggy silica alteration, which is commonly associated with high sulfidation epithermal gold-silver deposits, in all holes. Final assays confirmed potentially economic gold values in vuggy silica in one of the drill holes.

The Agreement offered Barrick the opportunity to earn an undivided 70% interest in the El Quevar project by spending $10.0 million on work expenditures over a total of eight years, which included spending $0.5 million per year in years one and two, $1.0 million per year in years three, four and five, and $2.0 million per year in years six, seven and eight. Additional earn-in terms under the Agreement required Barrick to deliver an NI 43-101-compliant Pre-Feasibility Study describing a potentially profitable operation with mineral resources of not less than 2 million gold equivalent ounces, also within eight years.

About El Quevar and Next Steps

Golden Minerals has previously defined a high-grade silver deposit at El Quevars Yaxtche deposit, totaling 2.9 million tonnes of Indicated material containing 45.3 million ounces (oz) of silver at an average grade of 482 grams per tonne (gpt), plus 0.3 million tonnes of Inferred material containing 4.1 million oz of silver at an average grade of 417 gpt1. The Yaxtche deposit encompasses less than one percent of Quevars vast 57,000-hectare land area. Most of the area outside the Yaxtche deposit has yet to be explored and the Yaxtche deposit itself is open to both the east and west.

The Company views the return of the El Quevar project very positively. Quevars land package now holds a potential gold prospect whose drilling was funded by Barrick. Meanwhile, most of Quevars holding costs have been funded by Barrick since April 2020 as well.

Golden Minerals intends to further advance the El Quevar project and update its resource, subject to the availability of capital. The Companys focus will be on updating the Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Yaxtche silver deposit and in step-out drilling to follow up on the gold intercept drilled in 2022 by Barrick.

The attached district map shows the El Quevar project and the Yaxtche deposit within it.

Endnotes

1 February 2018. Resources prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects (NI 43-101). Amec Foster Wheeler E&C Services, Inc., a Wood Group PLC company. NI 43-101 Technical Report on Updated Mineral Resource Estimate, February 26, 2018. Cutoff grade 250 g/t Ag.

About Golden Minerals

Golden Minerals is a precious metals mining exploration company based in Golden, Colorado. The Company is primarily focused on advancing its Yoquivo property in Mexico and advancing its El Quevar silver property in Argentina. The Company is also focused on acquiring and advancing selected mining properties in North America and Argentina.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and applicable Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the Companys views on the return of the El Quevar project; the potential gold prospect of the Quevar land package; the assumptions and estimates contained in the February 2018 NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate; and the Companys intention to further advance the El Quevar project and update the Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Yaxtche silver deposit. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the potential future re-suspension of non-essential activities in Mexico; increases in costs and declines in general economic conditions; changes in political conditions, in tax, royalty, environmental and other laws in the United States, Mexico or Argentina and other market conditions; and fluctuations in silver and gold prices. Golden Minerals assumes no obligation to update this information. Additional risks relating to Golden Minerals may be found in the periodic and current reports filed with the SEC by Golden Minerals, including the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023.

For additional information, please visit http://www.goldenminerals.com/.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327707450/en/

Golden Minerals Company

Karen Winkler, Director of Investor Relations

(303) 839-5060

Source: Golden Minerals Company
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- H.I.G. WhiteHorse Europe, a credit affiliate of global investment firm H.I.G. Capital ("H.I.G.") is pleased to announce that it has arranged a financing package for Germany-headquartered Connexta GmbH (Connexta or the Company), backing its acquisition by Fremman Capital (Fremman), a pan-European, mid-market investment firm.

H.I.G. WhiteHorse Europe has arranged a 90 million financing package, which will be used to finance the acquisition and provide additional capital to support the Companys expansion, particularly through an active buy-and-build strategy. H.I.G. WhiteHorse Europe acted as the sole lender of the term debt.

Maximilian Schurenkramer, Managing Director at Fremman Capital, said: With Connexta, we have found the right platform with an excellent management team to actively drive strategic consolidation and thereby build the leading IT service provider of choice to German and potentially European SME customers. We were impressed with H.I.G. Whitehorses ability to move quickly and provide certainty of execution throughout the process. We are grateful to have such a strong financial partner on our side.

Pascal Meysson, Head of H.I.G. WhiteHorse Europe, said: We are delighted to partner with Fremman Capital and to contribute to the future success of the Company through a tailor-made and flexible financing solution. We have been impressed by the quality of its management team and the focus and engagement of the Fremman investment team. We are looking forward to a very fruitful and successful partnership and support the Companys growth plans.

Sebastian Lorenz, Principal at H.I.G. WhiteHorse Europe, said: Established as a leading buy-and-build platform in the fragmented German IT services space, Connexta has consistently demonstrated its ability to consolidate the market and broaden its first-class service offering. We are excited to be part of the next chapter in Connextas success story.

About Connexta

Connexta is an IT services platform serving SME customers across Germany, with strong expertise in IT infrastructure (Core IT), cloud solutions, and cybersecurity. The business is headquartered in Munich, Germany. With a regional network of 12 locations across Germany, Connexta has established a unique go-to-market approach offering SME clients end-to-end IT Services.

About H.I.G. Capital

H.I.G. Capital is a leading global alternative investment firm with $60 billion of capital under management.* Based in Miami, and with offices in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco in the United States, as well as international affiliate offices in Hamburg, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Paris, Bogota, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and Dubai, H.I.G. specializes in providing both debt and equity capital to middle market companies, utilizing a flexible and operationally focused/value-added approach:

H.I.G.s equity funds invest in management buyouts, recapitalizations, and corporate carve-outs of both profitable as well as underperforming manufacturing and service businesses.

H.I.G.s debt funds invest in senior, unitranche, and junior debt financing to companies across the size spectrum, both on a primary (direct origination) basis, as well as in the secondary markets. H.I.G. also manages a publicly traded BDC, WhiteHorse Finance.

H.I.G.s real estate funds invest in value-added properties, which can benefit from improved asset management practices.

H.I.G. Infrastructure focuses on making value-add and core plus investments in the infrastructure sector.

Since its founding in 1993, H.I.G. has invested in and managed more than 400 companies worldwide. The Firm's current portfolio includes more than 100 companies with combined sales in excess of $53 billion. For more information, please refer to the H.I.G. website at hig.com.

*Based on total capital raised by H.I.G. Capital and affiliates.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327858957/en/

Pascal Meysson

Head of H.I.G. WhiteHorse Europe

[email protected]

Sebastian Lorenz

Principal

[email protected]

H.I.G. WhiteHorse Europe

10 Grosvenor Street

2nd Floor

London W1K 4QB

P +44 (0) 207 318 5700

hig.com

Source: H.I.G. WhiteHorse Europe
The City of Columbus recently posed a question to the Target Corp. "AskTarget" social media account, requesting the retail chain bring its trademark bullseye logo to town.

On March 18, via the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, the city implored the Minneapolis-based company to "consider making a visit to good old Columbus" to speak with city officials about the possibility of opening a store here.

A member of the Target social media team  Stacie  responded to the city's request, writing that she will "make sure to send your request to our Real Estate team."

The City of Columbus posted its initial entreaty to its Facebook page on the morning of March 18, followed by an updated post with Stacies response a few hours later. The city explained that it would be sending a more formal follow up letter to Target HQ to inquire "about our residents' desire for them to open a store in town in hopes they'll consider it and provide feedback."

As of Tuesday, March 26, the two Facebook posts have generated a combined 464 "likes, 169 shares and 136 comments, most of which are very supportive of Target bringing its red carts to Columbus.

The somewhat tongue-in-cheek social media post was the brainchild of Matt Lindberg, the citys public communications manager, Mayor James Bulkley said.

He put that out for us, our little outreach to Target, Bulkley told The Telegram in a phone interview. But it was as much an outreach to our citizens as anything.

Bulkley cited a long-running and persistent rumor that the City of Columbus struck a deal with Walmart Inc. when the retail chain first opened its Columbus store  in 1986  that the city wouldnt allow other big box retailers to open locations.

Many people think that we (himself and the city council) control that instead of going back to their Economics 101 in high school that says if you dont make money off where you are, you dont go there, Bulkley said.

Bulkley said that the Columbus community loves having a Walmart and the citys courting of other retailers shouldnt be seen as a slight toward the Arkansas-based chain.

The point is we, like any community, wed love to have more options and those options would include more retail, let alone more dining, options, Bulkley said.

The lack of more diverse shopping and dining options in Columbus is, at least in part, based on its geographical positioning, Bulkley said.

We are kind of in the middle of three or four geographical areas that already have their established draw, he said, referring to the Omaha metro area to the east, Lincoln to the south, Grand Island to the west and Norfolk to the north.

You put all those together and here we are sitting in Columbus and the box store is going, why do I go there? Theyre going to come to me anyway, Bulkley said. So we have the stores that are already in those other areas, which make it difficult for corporate box store to make a decision.

All of which is to say that while Bulkley remains hopeful that Columbus will eventually attract more retail and dining chains, he also believes it to be a long shot.

We would love to expand in those kinds of ways, he said. Im a realist to think the difficulty is not going to go away.

To echo the mayors point, some replies to the Citys Facebook post lamented that Columbus doesn't have the population density or income level to attract its own Target store.

There are also a few replies opposed to even lobbying for a Target store, with one commenter writing, "We need lower product costs, fuel costs, housing costs and lower taxes all around before we need another store in this town/county."

A handful of replies also expressed that, if given a choice, they would rather have an Aldi grocery store than a Target.

When contacted about the companys criteria for developing new stores, a Target representative stated that the company doesnt have any new store news to share at this time, and provided a link to a corporate page that lists upcoming Target locations. The only new store listed in Nebraska is the one being built in Grand Island as part of that citys new Conestoga Marketplace.
Holley has continued to utilize strong free cash flow to prepay $65 million in debt since September 2023

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Holley Performance Brands (NYSE: HLLY), a leader in automotive aftermarket performance solutions, today announced it paid down an additional $15 million in principal against its first lien term loan facility. This debt reduction against Holleys first lien term loan facility was completed through opportunistic repurchases at a discount to par in March and was completed using cash on hand.

Combined with the $50 million paydown during 2023, Holley has prepaid the principal amount outstanding under its first lien term loan facility by $65 million since September 2023 allowing Holley to cumulatively recognize up to an estimated $2.5 million in annualized net interest savings.

The prepayment of an additional $15 million of debt demonstrates our continued focus to reduce leverage and improve our balance sheet, said Jesse Weaver, Chief Financial Officer, Holley. Our business model has a history of being resilient in all markets and consistently generating strong free cash flow. This has been further supported by our team's efforts to improve inventory turns while ensuring that we have the best-performing products on our shelves. As we continue to make progress on our business transformation, we will continue to prioritize reducing our leverage ratio by utilizing near-term cash flow.

For more investor relations news, visit Holleys website.

About Holley

Holley Inc. (NYSE: HLLY), commonly referred to as Holley Performance Brands, leads in the design, manufacturing and marketing of high-performance products for automotive enthusiasts. The company has a portfolio of iconic brands, catering to a diverse community of enthusiasts passionate about the customization and performance of their vehicles. Holley Performance Brands distinguishes itself through a strategic focus on four consumer vertical groupings, including Domestic Muscle, Modern Truck & Off-Road, Euro & Import, and Safety & Racing, ensuring a wide-ranging impact across the automotive aftermarket industry. Renowned for its innovative approach and strategic acquisitions, Holley Performance Brands is committed to enhancing the enthusiast experience and driving growth through innovation. For more information on Holley Performance Brands and its dedication to automotive excellence, visit https://www.holley.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or Holleys future financial or operating performance. For example, statements regarding further debt reduction and any benefits related thereto are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as may, should, will, continue, estimate, see, look, anticipate, believe, predict, or or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Holley and its management, are inherently uncertain. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: 1) the ability of Holley to grow and manage growth profitably which may be affected by, among other things, competition and maintenance of relationships with customers and suppliers; 2) the ability to hire or retain its management and key employees; 3) costs related to Holley being a public company; 4) disruptions to Holley's operations, including as a result of cybersecurity incidents; 5) changes in applicable laws or regulations; 6) the outcome of any legal proceedings that have been or may be instituted against Holley; 7) general economic and political conditions, including the current macroeconomic environment, political tensions and war (including the conflict in Ukraine, the conflict in Israel and surrounding areas, and the possible expansion of such conflicts and potential geopolitical consequences); 8) the possibility that Holley may be adversely affected by other economic, business and/or competitive factors, including recent events affecting the financial services industry (such as the closures of certain regional banks); 9) Holleys estimates of its financial performance; 10) Holleys ability to anticipate and manage through disruptions and higher costs in manufacturing, supply chain, logistical operations, and shortages of certain Holley products in distribution channels; and 11) other risks and uncertainties set forth in the section entitled Risk Factors and Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on March 14, 2024, and/or disclosed in any subsequent filings with the SEC. Although Holley believes the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, nothing in this press release should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements or projections set forth herein will be achieved or that any of the contemplated results of such forward looking statements or projections will be achieved. There may be additional risks that Holley presently does not know or that Holley currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Holley undertakes no duty to update these forward-looking statements, except as otherwise required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326868680/en/

Investor Relations:

Anthony Rozmus / Neel Sikka

Solebury Strategic Communications

203-428-3224

[email protected]

Source: Holley Inc.
DOVER, Del.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- As part of a broader strategic initiative to improve and modernize its technology and business processes, Honolulus Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) has selected Claritis Community Development Software to replace its legacy permitting system. Implementation of the new system is underway, led by Speridian Technologies, a trusted Clariti partner.

Claritis all-in-one permitting platform will replace the DPPs 26-year-old, on-premise solution and enable a fully digital permitting process from application to approval to completion. The project is part of Honolulus overarching goal to leverage the latest and most innovative technologies.

With Clariti, the DPP will centralize its permitting, code compliance, planning, and short-term rental registration processes onto one easy-to-use platform, says Dawn Takeuchi Apuna, Director of Honolulus Department of Planning and Permitting. Applicants will be able to apply and pay for a permit or license via a portal on our website, which will greatly improve the end-to-end user experience for our residents and staff.

Importantly, the new permitting, registration, and land-use management system will also give staff the power to create and edit workflows and reports without vendor support, and help improve the plan review process with a managed integration between Clariti and ProjectDox - critical capabilities the DPPs current system lacks.

Were thrilled to partner with Honolulu to help improve critical community development services, said Clariti Co-CEO, Cyrus Symoom. The DPPs commitment to embracing the latest technology is commendable and is sure to serve as a model for other cities and counties looking to provide the best possible experience for their residents and staff.

The City and County of Honolulu spans the entire island of Oahu. Its the capital of Hawaii and home to over 1,000,000 residents.

About Clariti Software

Clariti Software serves state and local governments of all sizes and is the fastest-growing community development, permitting and licensing software company in North America. Currently, one in three people in the U.S. benefit from Clariti solutions. The software is built as an alternative to code-heavy, non-configurable systems that create technology barriers for governments to meet their communitys evolving needs. In 2024, Clariti was named to the GovTech 100 List for the third consecutive year. To learn more about Clariti and its solutions, visit https://www.claritisoftware.com.

About Speridian Technologies

Speridian is a Global IT solutions and consulting company that helps leading enterprises solve their biggest challenges using innovative technology solutions and services. To learn more, visit https://www.speridian.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327403285/en/

Media Contact

Jeremy Bosch

VP Marketing, Clariti

[email protected]

Source: Clariti
Setting New Standards for Safety and Performance

CRANBURY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Innophos, a leading global producer of specialty phosphates and minerals, proudly announces the EU REACH registration of its groundbreaking product, INNOVALT SL70 Scavenger. This achievement underscores Innophos' dedication to innovation, human health, and environmental sustainability.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327530810/en/

INNOVALT SL70 Scavenger by Innophos Receives EU REACH Registration (Photo: Business Wire)

INNOVALT SL70 Scavenger, a patented formula, significantly reduces the release of toxic hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the production, storage, and application of bitumen. By improving workplace safety and reducing environmental pollution, INNOVALT SL70 Scavenger exemplifies Innophos' commitment to creating healthier communities and work environments.

Additionally, INNOVALT SL70 Scavenger enhances the longevity of equipment by minimizing corrosion. This benefit, coupled with its compatibility with polyphosphoric acid and other common bitumen additives, positions INNOVALT SL70 as a versatile, user-friendly solution suitable for a wide range of bitumen types.

John Toczek, VP of Business Management at Innophos, expressed his enthusiasm: "The EU REACH registration of INNOVALT SL70 Scavenger is a testament to our dedication to the European Union's rigorous safety and regulatory standards. It also reflects our commitment to delivering superior safety and performance-enhancing solutions to the EU bitumen industry."

INNOVALT SL70 Scavenger not only meets but sets new industry benchmarks for environmental stewardship and operational excellence in the bitumen sector.

For further details on INNOVALT SL70 Scavenger and its advantages, please visit our website.

About Innophos

Innophos is a leading global producer of specialty phosphate and mineral solutions serving food, beverage, nutrition, and industrial markets. Leveraging our expertise in phosphate science and technology, we partner with our customers to innovate and deliver products that excel in quality and performance. Headquartered in Cranbury, New Jersey, Innophos has an integrated manufacturing footprint that spans the United States, Canada, Mexico, and China. For more information, please visit www.innophos.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327530810/en/

Carrie Livingston

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 815-519-8302

Source: Innophos
EL PASO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Jordan Foster Construction has been recognized with two prestigious awards for construction safety excellence by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). The company received 1st place in the AGC Construction Safety Excellence Award (CSEA) in the Highway and Civil work category with man hours over 1 million hours and was selected as the Grand Award Winner, representing the highest honor awarded across all categories.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327224739/en/

CSEA 2024  Grand Award Photo: Pictured from left to right are Todd Roberts - President, ERS Inc. & 2023 AGC of America Vice President; Tricia Kagerer  EVP Risk Management JFC; Marco Votta  Cement Finisher JFC; Oswaldo Votta  Superintendent JFC; Oswaldo Votta Jr.  Field Associate JFC; Damian Alvarez  Environmental Health and Safety Director JFC; Clint Henson - Operations Manager of the Civil Division JFC; Asma Bayunus  Environmental Health and Safety Operations Manager JFC; Servando Acuna  Equipment Operator JFC; Jorge Acuna  Regional Safety Manager JFC; Brian J. Poliafico - Vice President, Profit Center Manager  Excess Construction, Starr Insurance; and Joe Russo, Northeast Regional Construction Industry Leader, WTW. (Photo: Business Wire)

The AGC CSEA program recognizes construction companies with outstanding safety performance and a demonstrated commitment to safety and occupational health management. Jordan Foster Construction's success in this esteemed competition is attributed to its dedication to its people, exemplified by its robust commitment to the Total Health of our team.

"At Jordan Foster Construction, our people are our most valuable asset," said John Goodrich, President of the Civil Division at Jordan Foster Construction. "Our success in the AGC CSEA program is a testament to our commitment to continuously striving to hear from our most important asset, our field team members. We prioritize creating a culture where everyone feels valued, supported, and heard. This prestigious award recognizes our outstanding commitment to the well-being and safety of our team members, added Goodrich.

Safety professionals measure a companys safety culture by asking one simple question  Would you let a member of your family work here? This represents the core of trust and care. Jordan Foster Construction has a history of generations working for the company fostering a strong sense of camaraderie, trust, and accountability among colleagues, explained Damian Alvarez, Environmental Health and Safety Director at Jordan Foster Construction.

"The construction industry is changing and Jordan Foster is leading the way," emphasized Clint Henson, Operations Manager of the Civil Division at Jordan Foster Construction. "We have committed to creating a safe and more productive environment by preventing fatigue through managing and monitoring work hours and creating an environment where team members can have time outside of work for what is most important to them. We found that productivity is limited after a certain number of hours of work. More than that can lead to incidents and rework. We are committed to staffing and scheduling our work to minimize the risk.

In addition to its focus on people, Jordan Foster Construction prioritizes mental health awareness and training as integral components of its safety initiatives. Asma Bayrunus, EHS Operations Manager, is responsible for the Mental Health First Aid and Suicide prevention program at Jordan Foster Construction. Recognizing a risk for First Aid and CPR responders, Asma established the first of its kind MindSaver Post CPR training program. Bayunus elaborated By promoting mental health awareness and providing comprehensive training programs, the company equips its team members with the tools needed to bring resources and communication to the field, addressing mental health challenges in the construction industry.

"Jordan Foster Construction is committed to expanding the definition of safety and breaking down silos and communication gaps that hinder safety best practices, stated Tricia Kagerer, Executive Vice President of Risk Management. "Our Safety and Risk Management team exists to ensure that our operations team has reliable risk management intelligence to make informed business decisions, run safe projects, and develop communication channels with everyone in the field. We are trusted advisors for our team.

Jordan Foster Construction is at the forefront of the construction industry and continuing our legacy as employer of choice as we Build Texas Together, stated Darren Woody CEO. Safety excellence coincides with operational excellence and profitability. It is aligned with our core values and the right thing to do. By striving for safety excellence, like the CSEA Grand Award, we become a better builder in the process.

Since 1969, Jordan Foster has completed billions of dollars in high-quality infrastructure, commercial, and multi-family projects, all while prioritizing and maintaining safe working environments within its unique safety culture. The award from EHS Today acknowledges Jordan Fosters commitment to excellence and integrity. The companys dedication to safety has resulted in being recognized by industry leaders such as Associated General Contractors, Associated Builders and Contractors, and the International Risk Management Institute (IRMI). For more information about Jordan Foster Construction and its commitment to safety excellence, visit jordanfosterconstruction.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327224739/en/

Alix Duchouquette

[email protected]

915.227.4945

Source: Jordan Foster Construction
Comprehensive Learning Platform Available to Assist Each District Student Whenever Needed

GILBERT, Ariz. & ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Leading Edge Academy Charter Schools today announced a partnership with Varsity Tutors for Schools, a Nerdy (NYSE: NRDY) company and the leading platform for live online tutoring, to provide all Academy students with access to the Varsity Tutors for Schools platform at no cost to the Academy schools, students or families. The comprehensive platform integrates interactive study tools, collaborative workspaces, and dynamic learning resources, including:

24/7 On-Demand Chat Tutoring

On-Demand Essay Review

Live Enrichment Classes SAT and ACT Test Prep Classes

Celebrity-Led StarCourse Classes

Self Study Resources

College & Career Readiness Resources

Adaptive Assessments & Personalized Learning Plans

Recorded Enrichment Classes

Since providing our students access to the Varsity Tutors for Schools platform students have been able to receive tutoring at-home or on the go, said Mary Ellen Lee, Director of Development at Leading Edge Academy Charter Schools. Since implementing this resource, the students who have accessed tutoring sessions continue to grow! We are excited that a free support system is able to be provided to our families in a way that we wouldn't be able to otherwise.

Over 500 school districts across the country utilize the Varsity Tutors for Schools platform to supplement classroom learning and to effectively close learning gaps. When students need help with homework or are struggling to solve a problem, they can immediately chat with a tutor, 24/7, to get the help they need. Students can take practice tests and follow personal lesson plans for guided self-study. They can also sign up for expert-led live classes, and learn subjects like Geometry, Middle School Math, Elementary School Reading and more, alongside their peers.

Varsity Tutors for Schools delivers a rich set of learning options to deploy for all students, said Anthony Salcito, Chief Institutional Officer at Varsity Tutors for Schools. Our comprehensive platform access is available to all K-12 schools at no cost, allowing them to budget for targeted intervention with best-in-class high-dosage tutoring options, including flexible implementation models that can put administrative staff, teachers, or parents at the center of the high-dosage tutoring relationship, depending on the needs of the district.

The platform is available to Leading Edge Academy students and families immediately through June 2030.

About Leading Edge Academy

Leading Edge Academy is a system of public K-12 charter schools that develop lifelong learners who lead with character and achieve academic excellence by educating the whole child and fostering community and parental partnerships located in Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Maricopa, and Online all throughout Arizona. We believe in Character Above All Else and that drives everything we do for our students and our families. www.LeadingEdgeAcademy.com

About Varsity Tutors for Schools

Varsity Tutors, the industry leading online tutoring platform trusted by millions of families, launched Varsity Tutors for Schools, aimed at assisting district leaders in delivering 1:1 tutoring and comprehensive learning support. Varsity Tutors has a proven track record of successful collaboration with over 500 K-12 schools and districts, offering three implementation models: District Assigned, Parent Assigned, and Teacher Assigned. Each implementation model includes facilitating high-dosage, recurring, face-to-face tutoring in 1:1 or small group settings for any grade or subject, 24/7 on-demand tutoring, essay reviewing, and dedicated support for college admissions and test preparation. Learn more about how Varsity Tutors' provides tailored educational solutions and partners with K-12 districts at https://www.varsitytutors.com/school-solutions

About Nerdy Inc.

Nerdy (NYSE: NRDY) is a leading platform for live online learning, with a mission to transform the way people learn through technology. The Companys purpose-built proprietary platform leverages technology, including AI, to connect learners of all ages to experts, delivering superior value on both sides of the network. Nerdys comprehensive learning destination provides learning experiences across 3,000+ subjects and multiple formats - including Learning Memberships, one-on-one instruction, small group classes, large format group classes, coding, tutor chat, essay review, and adaptive self-study. Nerdys flagship business, Varsity Tutors, is one of the nations largest platforms for live online tutoring and classes. Its solutions are available directly to students and consumers, as well as through schools and other institutions. Learn more about Nerdy at https://www.nerdy.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327144087/en/

Jeff Pecor

Tailwind Public Relations

206.948.1482

[email protected]

Source: Varsity Tutors for Schools
Microsoft Azure customers worldwide can now purchase Lightbeams care orchestration technology suite directly from the Azure Marketplace

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Lightbeam Health Solutions, the leader in population health enablement technology and solutions, today announces Lightbeam's debut on Microsoft Azure Marketplace, an online store providing applications and services for use on Azure. As an Azure partner with a transactable offering on Azure Marketplace, Lightbeam client-partners can count Azure usage towards their own Microsoft Azure Consumption Commitment (MACC), thereby maximizing their investment in Azure services and solutions.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327349729/en/

Lightbeam is honored to have its population health solution suite offered on Microsoft Azure Marketplace, advantaging our client-partners usage toward Azure benefit-eligible offers and enabling our technology to reach an even broader audience across the United States, said Patrick Burton, SVP of Business Development at Lightbeam Health Solutions. Lightbeam initially adopted Microsoft Azure SQL Database because of its unparalleled reliability, efficiency, scalability, and convenience. Our relationship with Microsoft drives Lightbeams core mission: to develop and deploy systems that enhance patient care and empower healthcare organizations to drive positive clinical, financial, and operational results. With the global reach of Microsoft Azure Marketplace, Lightbeams solutions can reach more innovators and impact health outcomes on a larger scale.

Jake Zborowski, General Manager, Microsoft Azure Platform at Microsoft Corp. said, Were pleased to welcome Lightbeam Health to the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, which gives our partners great exposure to cloud customers around the globe. Azure Marketplace offers world-class quality experiences from global trusted partners with solutions tested to work seamlessly with Azure.

Lightbeams platform extends beyond what traditional population health management solutions offer to provide organizations with the efficiency necessary to scale performance. Paired with Lightbeams integrated analytics and prescriptive AI, Lightbeams robust solution accelerates value-based care performance by enabling payers and providers to seamlessly orchestrate clinical and financial outcomes without added administrative burden. In 2024, Lightbeams Deviceless RPM solution ranked #1 Best in KLAS for Remote Patient Monitoring as a clinically validated, scalable, and accessible engagement technology to address rising-risk populations.

To learn more about how Lightbeams mission of enabling healthcare organizations to achieve superior outcomes and success in value-based care through its collaboration with Microsoft, schedule a meeting with a Lightbeam expert at 2024 AMGA Annual Conference or stop by booth #714 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Orlando, FL, April 9-12, 2024.

About Lightbeam Health Solutions

Lightbeam Health Solutions delivers a proven model for managing patient populations and associated risk. Lightbeams population health platform arms payers and providers with the tools they need to facilitate care orchestration and improve patient outcomes while finding success in all value-based arrangements. Lightbeam services ACO REACH, MSSP ACO, Medicare Advantage, traditional Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial populations across the country. For more information, visit www.lightbeamhealth.com and follow Lightbeam on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).

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Lightbeam Health Contact:

Amanda Hunt

[email protected]

Source: Lightbeam Health Solutions
The companys investment underscores its commitment to advancing climate-friendly refrigerants

MILL VALLEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to advance climate-friendly natural refrigerants in supermarkets, announces new Titanium Member, City Building Engineering Services (CBES). Headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts, CBES is a leading integrated professional services and sustainability company serving the nations top retailers and food retailers.

CBESs decision to join NASRC at the highest level demonstrates their alignment with our mission and commitment to driving progress for the supermarket industry, said Danielle Wright, NASRC executive director. Were thrilled to have them and look forward to leveraging their expertise for positive change.

The CBES team is committed to a sustainable future for our partners, communities and environment, shared Cary Nix, CBES senior vice president of engineering. Our dedication to sustainable refrigeration aligns well with NASRCs incredible work and their positive and ambitious plan to impact our industrys future. We look forward to collaborating to help drive meaningful change.

Amidst escalating regulatory pressures and corporate sustainability initiatives, the supermarket refrigeration industry faces a pivotal shift from hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerantssuper-polluting greenhouse gases. Natural refrigerants like CO2, ammonia and propane have zero or near-zero global warming potential, making them climate-friendly, future-proof alternatives.

However, upfront costs and service readiness challenge their widespread adoption in US supermarkets. NASRC collaborates with the industry to overcome these barriers through solutions like workforce development, funding support and education.

As the newest Titanium member, CBES supports NASRC at the highest level, demonstrating its strong commitment to advancing solutions for the industry.

About the North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council

The North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC) is a 501(c)(3) environmental nonprofit working to advance climate-friendly natural refrigerants and reduce greenhouse gas emissions caused by traditional HFC refrigerants. We collaborate with stakeholders from across the industry, including over 55,000 food retail locations, to eliminate the barriers to natural refrigerants in supermarkets. For more information, visit nasrc.org, LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

About City Building Engineering Services

City Building Engineering Services (CBES) is a leading integrated professional services firm supporting technical requirements for retail and related industries. CBES experts manage the most challenging projects from inception to completion, including project design, engineering, construction, commissioning and sustainability solutions. Learn more on our website and LinkedIn.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327100790/en/

Morgan Smith

[email protected]

585-217-2254

Source: The North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC)
LONDON & NEW YORK & HONG KONG--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Options Technology, a trailblazer in capital markets infrastructure, today announced a new partnership with Trader Evolution, a multi-market trading platform specializing in multi-asset and multi-market brokerage and trading software.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327976100/en/

Options today announced a new partnership with Trader Evolution, a multi-market trading platform specializing in multi-asset and multi-market brokerage and trading software. (Photo: Business Wire)

The partnership is set to provide customers with bespoke API connectivity and advanced software alongside Options pre-deployed technology stack, which consumes, translates, and broadcasts normalized and historical tick data to clients worldwide, delivering comprehensive access to multi-asset class market data.

The announcement follows Options full integration with Activ Financial and subsequent amalgamation of global market data sources, alongside hosted trading infrastructure and direct connectivity to counterparts in the wider capital markets ecosystem.

Options facilitates trading at hundreds of venues worldwide with fully managed infrastructure and connectivity in conjunction with the firms private financial cloud services, combining hosting with direct market access, TCO reduction, and best-in-class resiliency and security.

Danny Moore, President and CEO of Options, commented, We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Trader Evolution, a prominent player in the brokerage software and API development space. Leveraging their extensive knowledge in financial software solutions and emphasis on a backend-centric platform, we are poised to deliver cutting-edge, scalable strategies tailored to our clients' evolving requirements and the intricacies of the global capital markets.

Roman Nalivayko, CEO of TraderEvolution Global, explained, "Our partnership with Options Technology represents an important milestone regarding TraderEvolution Global's commitment to providing comprehensive access to granular market data across all global markets. TraderEvolution Global's advanced venue-agnostic suite of trading software connects financial institutions and their clients to a diverse range of asset classes. Now, in conjunction with Options Technology's full data stack, it furthers accessibility to vital information relating to all asset classes across the world's executing venues and the entire spectrum of the worlds capital markets."

Todays news comes as the latest in a series of exciting developments for Options Technology, including its achievement of a new Microsoft Cloud Security specialization, its partnership with Dukascopy and its 13th consecutive year of SOC compliance.

Options Technology:

Options Technology (Options) is a financial technology company at the forefront of banking and trading infrastructure. We serve clients globally with offices in New York, London, Belfast, Cambridge, Chicago, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore, Paris, and Auckland. At Options, our services are woven into the hottest trends in global technology, including high-performance Networking, Cloud, Security, and AI (Artificial Intelligence).

www.options-it.com

Trader Evolution:

TraderEvolution is a multi-market trading platform provider offering modular, tailored solutions that include a back-end with established connectivities to dozens of markets across the globe, and a complex front-end suite with web, mobile, and desktop applications. The company serves banks and brokers from around the world, empowering them with an independent and liquidity-neutral solution to facilitate core brokerage operations or complement their existing solutions.

www.traderevolution.com

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Options Technology

For media inquiries Niall McAleer, [email protected]

Trader Evolution

For media enquiries: Marcin Nowogorski

[email protected]

Source: Options Technology
STAMFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Purdue Pharma L.P. (Purdue) announced today that the Company has awarded an investigator-initiated research (IIR) grant to a team of researchers at The University of New Mexico (UNM) for the evaluation of nalmefene hydrochloride (HCl) injection 2mg/2mL (1mg/1mL) in the emergency department setting.

Opioid overdoses are sadly way too common in New Mexico, said Cameron Crandall, MD, with UNMs School of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine. Having this treatment available can help save lives. Nalmefene helps reverse the deadly effects of opioid overdoses and is long-acting. We are evaluating its effects on patients who present in the ED with opioid overdose.

Investigator-initiated research projects like this can help provide a better understanding of nalmefene HCI injections use in real-world emergency department settings, said Monica Kwarcinski, PharmD, Vice President, Medical Affairs at Purdue. We are enthusiastic about supporting research that can contribute to addressing the opioid overdose crisis.

The prospective, randomized study, Evaluation of Nalmefene HCl Injection for Recurrent Respiratory Depression After Suspected Acute Opioid Overdose in an Emergency Department, will compare the efficacy and safety of nalmefene HCl injection to naloxone injection in the treatment of recurrent respiratory depression due to opioid overdose. The objective is to evaluate these treatments in reversing symptoms of opioid overdose. The study will also assess adverse events, including the development of precipitated opioid withdrawal, following the administration of each treatment.

Nalmefene HCl injection is an opioid antagonist indicated for the complete or partial reversal of opioid drug effects, including respiratory depression, induced by either natural or synthetic opioids and in the management of known or suspected opioid overdose. Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the product.1 The Company distributes nalmefene HCl injection for no profit.

The study will be independently developed and carried out by UNMs research team with Purdue Pharma providing only funding and nalmefene HCI injection. Patient enrollment is planned to begin in July 2024.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Nalmefene Hydrochloride Injection is indicated for the complete or partial reversal of opioid drug effects, including respiratory depression, induced by either natural or synthetic opioids.

Nalmefene Hydrochloride Injection is indicated in the management of known or suspected opioid overdose.

CONTRAINDICATION

Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the product.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Use of Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection in Emergencies

Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection, like all drugs in this class, is not the primary treatment for ventilatory failure. In most emergency settings, treatment with Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection should follow, not precede, the establishment of a patent airway, ventilatory assistance, administration of oxygen, and establishment of circulatory access.

Risk of Recurrent Respiratory Depression

Accidental overdose with long acting opioids [such as methadone and levo-alpha-acetylmethadol (LAAM)] may result in prolonged respiratory depression. Respiratory depression in both the postoperative and overdose setting may be complex and involve the effects of anesthetic agents, neuromuscular blockers, and other drugs. While Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection has a longer duration of action than naloxone in fully reversing doses, the physician should be aware that a recurrence of respiratory depression is possible, even after an apparently adequate initial response to Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection treatment.

Patients treated with Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection should be observed until, in the opinion of the physician, there is no reasonable risk of recurrent respiratory depression.

Cardiovascular Risks with Narcotic Antagonists

Pulmonary edema, cardiovascular instability, hypotension, hypertension, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation have been reported in connection with opioid reversal in both postoperative and emergency department settings. In many cases, these effects appear to be the result of abrupt reversal of opioid effects.

Although Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection has been used safely in patients with pre-existing cardiac disease, all drugs of this class should be used with caution in patients at high cardiovascular risk or who have received potentially cardiotoxic drugs.

Risk of Precipitated Withdrawal

Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection, like other opioid antagonists, is known to produce acute withdrawal symptoms and, therefore, should be used with extreme caution in patients with known physical dependence on opioids or following surgery involving high doses of opioids. Imprudent use or excessive doses of opioid antagonists in the postoperative setting has been associated with hypertension, tachycardia, and excessive mortality in patients at high risk for cardiovascular complications.

Incomplete Reversal of Buprenorphine

Preclinical studies have shown that nalmefene at doses up to 10 mg/kg (437 times the maximum recommended human dose) produced incomplete reversal of buprenorphine-induced analgesia in animal models. This appears to be a consequence of a high affinity and slow displacement of buprenorphine from the opioid receptors. Hence, Nalmefene Hydrochloride injection may not completely reverse buprenorphine-induced respiratory depression.

Use in Pediatric Patients

Safety and effectiveness of nalmefene hydrochloride injection in pediatric patients have not been established.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common adverse reactions (>1%) reported in clinical trials with nalmefene injection were nausea (18%), vomiting (9%), tachycardia (5%), hypertension (5%), postoperative pain (4%), fever (3%), and dizziness (3%).

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Purdue Pharma L.P. at 1-888-726-7535 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Please read Prescribing Information available here.

For more information, visit www.nalmefenehcl.com.

About Purdue Pharma L.P.

Purdue Pharma and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market medications to meet the evolving needs of healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers. Purdues plan of reorganization will deliver billions in value to communities across the country to fund programs specifically for abatement of the opioid crisis. The bankruptcy settlement will also deliver funds to private abatement trusts for the benefit of personal injury claimants.

Substantially all of Purdues assets will be transferred to a new post-emergence company with a public-minded mission. This new company will be governed by new independent board members and will operate in a responsible and sustainable manner taking into account long-term public health interests relating to the opioid crisis. The company will continue serving patients who rely on its medicines, pursuing its pipeline and introducing medicines that will help save and improve lives.

For more information, visit www.purduepharma.com.

About The University of New Mexico Research

As an R1 university, The University of New Mexico serves as the states premier institution of higher learning and provider of health care by promoting discovery, generating intellectual and cultural contributions, and honoring academic values.

As the only academic health center in New Mexico, UNM Health and Health Sciences is dedicated to pushing forward into uncharted research territory. Faculty, staff, and trainees work tirelessly to address New Mexicos pressing health needs. At any given time, UNM Health and Health Sciences manages over 300 clinical trials and 900 major research projects. UNMs influence continues to grow through innovative medical research that reaches every corner of the globe.

References:

Nalmefene Hydrochloride Injection 2mg/2mL (1mg/1mL) [Full Prescribing Information]. Stamford, CT: Purdue Pharma L.P., 02/08/2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/spl/data/d4bb0797-a4ed-4ed4-9904-604433eea4ff/d4bb0797-a4ed-4ed4-9904-604433eea4ff.xml Accessed Feb. 8, 2024

MR-08522

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Media Contact: [email protected]

Source: Purdue Pharma L.P.
New funding from ARPA-H, in partnership with DARPA, directly supports development of next-generation technology for at-home treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory disorders

ST. PAUL, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- SecondWave Systems, Inc., a pioneer in the emerging field of bio-ultrasonic medicine, welcomes Professor Paul Peter Tak as the inaugural member of its newly established advisory board. In addition to bringing decades of experience as an academic physician-scientist, large pharma and biotechnology business leader, and entrepreneur, Dr. Taks prior pioneering preclinical and translational research at the Amsterdam University Medical Center was pivotal in elucidating the role of bioelectronic medicine as a therapeutic approach for autoimmune diseases. With highly relevant expertise as an internist, rheumatologist, and immunologist by training, Dr. Tak is an ideal complement to the SecondWave team to help accelerate development and commercialization of a new ultrasound-based therapeutic modality to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other immune-mediated inflammatory conditions.

SecondWave continues development of its focused ultrasound technology platform with support from U.S. government partners, and today announces that it has secured $3 million of additional funding from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H), in partnership with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), bringing the total non-dilutive funding from U.S. government agencies to $15.3 million. Seed investment from DARPA supported the initial development of the SecondWave MINI, a first-of-its-kind, wearable therapeutic ultrasound stimulation platform, intended for noninvasive and personalized treatment of chronic and acute inflammatory disorders. This prior investment resulted in a human-grade wearable medical device that was recently investigated in a first-in-human clinical study in RA patients (NCT05417854), with positive efficacy outcomes. This new funding enables further advancement of the MINI technology platform for implementation in a pivotal clinical trial for at-home treatment of RA.

Despite advances in treatment, there is still a significant unmet need for better treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases, like RA, said Dr. Tak. One area of unmet need is for therapies that specifically target the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, a natural mechanism in the body that helps control inflammation. It is activated by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is released within the spleen. SecondWaves MINI system could potentially provide a noninvasive tool to control inflammation by activation of this and other anti-inflammatory pathways through the spleen.

As we work to commercialize the SecondWave MINI as a new class of therapy for inflammatory disease, we are very excited to enter the next phase of development with continued support from our government partners at DARPA and ARPA-H, and with complementary expertise from Dr. Tak as an advisory board member, said SecondWave CEO Anuj Bhardwaj. We continue to pursue comprehensive and rigorous scientific data to support the efficacy and broad capabilities of our novel therapeutic modality; so, it is critical to team up with highly knowledgeable and respected scientists, clinicians, and federal agencies to successfully achieve our companys mission to establish bio-ultrasonic medicine as a new standard of care for treating disease.

For more information on SecondWave Systems, visit www.secondwaveUS.com.

About Paul Peter Tak, MD, PhD, FMedSci

Paul Peter Tak received his medical degree cum laude from the Amsterdam University Medical Center (AUMC) and was trained as an internist, rheumatologist, and immunologist at Leiden University Medical Center, where he also received his PhD. He worked as a scientist at the University of California San Diego and next served as Professor of Medicine and Chair of the Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology at AUMC. He has studied the role of the vagus nerve in chronic inflammation, work which provided the basis for clinical trials exploring bioelectronics as a novel therapeutic approach in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

He has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals (~600 publications, H index 146), received numerous awards, has been elected Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences (UK), is a PharmaVOICE100 honoree, was included in 'The Medicine Maker Power List 2023', and ranked #120 in the 2023 Edition of the World Ranking of Top 1000 Scientists in the area of Immunology.

At GlaxoSmithKline he served as Senior Vice President, Chief Immunology Officer, and Global Development Leader. He has been CEO of Tempero Pharmaceuticals and Kintai Therapeutics, is a co-founder of Sitryx, and is Chair of Citryll. In 2020, he became the President and CEO of Candel Therapeutics.

About SecondWave Systems, Inc.

SecondWave Systems is a pioneer in the emerging field of bio-ultrasonic medicine. The company is developing a first-of-its-kind noninvasive, wearable, and personalized ultrasound stimulation platform that will give patients and their physicians a new option for treating debilitating or life-threatening disease. The companys SecondWave MINI device uses proprietary low-intensity focused ultrasound technology to stimulate the spleen with the goal of treating acute and chronic inflammation disorders. This technology is being investigated in clinical studies to treat rheumatoid arthritis, and additional studies are planned to investigate use in other inflammatory conditions. For more information, visit www.secondwaveUS.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327456237/en/

[email protected]

Source: SecondWave Systems, Inc.
This aerial photo taken on Sept. 10, 2023 shows a view of Zhangjiang area of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone in east Chinas Shanghai. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

BEIJING, March 25 (Xinhua) -- China will further expand its high-level opening up, offering more opportunities for foreign investors to engage in deeper operations in the country, the Ministry of Commerce said Monday.

As China continues to lift market access restrictions in the manufacturing sector, it will also promote the opening up of sectors such as telecommunications and medical care to create more trade and investment opportunities for foreign investors, Vice Commerce Minister Guo Tingting said at the China Development Forum 2024.

The country will also launch a campaign to boost investment, continue to optimize services, and fully ensure national treatment for foreign-funded enterprises, Guo said.

"We will further enhance innovation drive and actively participate in global industrial and supply chain cooperation," Guo said, adding that efforts will be made to develop new technologies, industries and business models, expand service trade and digital trade, and promote the innovative development of enterprises.

Guo noted that China will deepen multilateral and bilateral cooperation and work for more practical outcomes in mechanisms such as G20, APEC and BRICS so that the results of economic globalization can better benefit all parties.


Dozens gathered at Lindsay Corporation's Lindsay facility on March 26 to help welcome the future of the manufacturer's facilities and one of its biggest changes yet.

A groundbreaking celebrated the beginning of a significant $50 million expansion for the irrigation and infrastructure manufacturer. It will add approximately 40,000 square feet of space and is the largest investment in the company's history.

"It shows we're committed to this area and this site and that we know we're investing in the future," said Rich Harold, senior vice president of global operations.

In a press release published on March 20, Gov. Jim Pillen offered his thoughts on the expansion, saying that Lindsay has grown to become "a worldwide force in irrigation and infrastructure" all based out of a smaller town like Lindsay. Pillen also attended the groundbreaking.

"This historic investment will continue to drive innovation, improve efficiencies, and enhance products that will benefit agriculture and infrastructure projects across the globe. I appreciate Lindsay's longstanding role and commitment to the state of Nebraska," Pillen said.

This expansion will also be a modernization effort, implementing a lot more technology to make workers' jobs easier and make their products better, the release from Lindsay said. The new facilities will implement better data connectivity, analytics and artificial intelligence on the digital side of things.

They will also add more automation, robotic devices and upgrades to the galvanizing process, which helps protect the steel used in their irrigation and road safety products.

"I think what (employees) are going to see over the course of the project is future investment, continuing to transfer from mechanical production to more digital. We're finding a lot of the work we do today is very manual and we're going to have the machines do more of that work," Harold said.

This expansion will make the factory smarter, faster and more efficient, he said, and shows Lindsay's commitment to the city it calls home.

"I think the most exciting thing for me is investment in technology and giving the people who work here and the community a sense of pride," Harold said.

Gary Stokes, director of operations for the Lindsay facility, said that this change is needed. The company has been able to do great things with their past and current operations, but the additions they plan on implementing will benefit everyone, from those working the machines down to the end users.

"I'd say this investment was needed to continue us forward, being competitive and for us to make things better, more cost competitive and it's better for employees," Stokes said.

The project will begin capital spending later this year for completion sometime before the end of 2025.
AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Governor Greg Abbott announced that CesiumAstro Founder and CEO, Shey Sabripour, has been named to the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium (TARSEC) executive committee. As part of an ambitious effort to solidify Texass position as a global aerospace hub, Governor Abbott signed House Bill 3447 last summer, creating TARSEC and the Texas Space Commission. HB 3447 will strengthen the states position in all aspects of aerospace activity, including civil, commercial, and military aviation, as well as research and development, space exploration, and infrastructure.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327552388/en/

Texas Governor Greg Abbott visits NASA's Johnson Space Center to announce the inaugural members of the Texas Space Commission Board of Directors and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium Executive Committee alongside Rep. Greg Bonnen, Speaker Dade Phelan, and NASA's Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Houston. Photo credit: Office of the Texas Governor

I am honored to serve on the executive committee of the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium, said Sabripour. Texass economy will be stronger and the aerospace industry well-positioned for future growth thanks to the support of Governor Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Patrick, Speaker Phelan, and our legislature. In my 30-plus years as an electrical engineer and executive in spacecraft and aerospace, I see my committee seat as one of the most important roles Ive held. The committee and I are dedicated to working withand forour fellow Texans to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and foster partnerships that help our state thrive.

With a budget set at $350 million, $200 million has been appropriated for the construction of facilities to be used for mission training, research, and the curation of astronautical materials, as well as providing space to support advanced robotics. The remaining $150 million will be appropriated to the Space Exploration and Aeronautics Research Fund for grants to qualified institutions developing new technologies for space activities, research on space exploration and flight, training people for space jobs, and studying and using materials found or made in space.

Long regarded as a leader in the space industry, Texas is home to hundreds of commercial aerospace businesses. Federally, the state plays a central role in NASAs endeavors thanks to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, a massive facility in Houston that has been a prime mover in human spaceflight for more than 60 years. In 2021, NASA accounted for $9.3 billion in economic output in Texas alone. The state is also home to top-ranked aerospace programs and research facilities like the University of Texas at Austins Department of Aerospace Engineering and Texas A&M Universitys National Institute for Aviation Research.

The space industry is booming in Texas, and TARSEC and the Texas Space Commission will ensure the states competitiveness on national and global stages," said Trey Pappas, Vice President of Business Development at CesiumAstro. We are lucky to live and work in a state that recognizes the importance of commercial, governmental, and educational partnerships for the future of the aerospace industry, and we thank our state government for providing the support required to continue on our upward trajectory.

Learn more about the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium here: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-launches-texas-space-commission.

About CesiumAstro

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, with offices in Colorado, California, and the United Kingdom, CesiumAstro builds high-throughput, software-defined phased array communications payloads for airborne and space platforms, including satellites, missiles, UASs, and more. CesiumAstros full-stack, multi-mission hardware and software solutions enable a range of commercial, government, and defense objectives. CesiumAstro provides full in-house design, manufacturing, and testing capabilities based on the ISO AS9100 standard. To learn more, visit CesiumAstro.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327552388/en/

Aimee Ahiers, [email protected]

Source: CesiumAstro
GRAPEVINE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Southland Holdings, Inc. (NYSE American: SLND and SLND WS) (Southland) announced today that a subsidiary in its Civil segment, Oscar Renda Contracting, has been awarded a $56 million contract to construct a new wastewater treatment plant facility in the Southwest.

The scope of work includes construction of a new headworks facility, influent pump station, extended aeration basin, blower building pad, administration building, and UV disinfection facility.

About Southland

Southland is a leading provider of specialized infrastructure construction services. With roots dating back to 1900, Southland and its subsidiaries form one of the largest infrastructure construction companies in North America, with experience throughout the world. The company serves the bridges, tunneling, communications, transportation and facilities, marine, steel structures, water and wastewater treatment, and water pipeline end markets. Southland is headquartered in Grapevine, Texas. For more information, please visit Southlands website at www.southlandholdings.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on Southlands current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of Southlands business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of Southlands control. Southlands actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by Southland in this press release is based only on information currently available to Southland and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Southland undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327372544/en/

Alex Murray

Corporate Development & Investor Relations

[email protected]

Source: Southland Holdings, Inc.
LIBERTYVILLE, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. and Valent BioSciences LLC announced today that Pace International LLC (Pace) and its operations overseas will become part of AgroFresh Solutions, Inc., a well-established leader in the postharvest solutions space. The decision to divest the Pace International business unit is part of Sumitomo Chemicals strategic realignment efforts. Sumitomo Chemical and Valent BioSciences also plan to develop a strategic research collaboration with AgroFresh. Under this collaboration, Sumitomo Chemical and Valent BioSciences will continue working together in developing innovative new postharvest solutions and bringing them to the market with AgroFreshs global market access.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327760852/en/

Valent Biosciences and AgroFresh are committed to providing a smooth transition to Paces employees, customers, and other stakeholders. The company remains committed to fulfilling its obligations and ensuring a seamless transition for all parties involved.

As a result of the acquisition of Pace by AgroFresh, the combined platform will provide its customers with a broader portfolio of postharvest products, services, technologies, and digital solutions, offering a range of innovative solutions to meet their evolving needs for productivity, quality protection, and freshness extension.

The integration of the Pace business with AgroFresh represents a step forward for both companies, enabling the creation of a postharvest solutions platform with stronger global reach, customer service, and innovation capabilities, said Rodrigo Cifuentes, COO of Pace. The impressive portfolio of postharvest solutions that both companies bring together will set new standards in packinghouse efficiencies, quality, and freshness not only for its customers, but across the entire fresh produce supply chain. As we move forward together, we are confident that this partnership will bring exciting possibilities to our combined employee, customer, and partner base.

We are excited to integrate the Pace business into AgroFresh, as we drive forward together with a shared vision to be the postharvest company of choice for customers globally, said Clint Lewis, CEO of AgroFresh. By combining our products, capabilities, and technical expertise, customers will have access to an even broader portfolio of postharvest solutions and digital technologies that can be tailored to their specific crops, operations, and needs to help enhance production quality and yield and minimize unnecessary loss at every step of their supply chain.

Furthermore, Valent BioSciences and AgroFresh intend to accelerate innovation in postharvest solutions by collaborating to develop and introduce breakthrough products, technologies, and services to address the most pressing challenges in the freshness protection space. This will be accomplished through the extensive expertise, technology pipelines, and resources of both companies.

We are excited about this future collaboration and the benefits it can bring to the crop and food protection industry, said Salman Mir, President and CEO of Valent BioSciences. Combining Valent BioSciences expertise in the development of sustainable biorational solutions for food crops with AgroFreshs expanding global reach and postharvest expertise will help accelerate the launch of the next generation of sustainable postharvest solutions for the long-term benefit of our customers, end users, and the environment.

Sumitomo Chemical is strongly committed to alleviating hunger and improving nutrition by providing products, technologies, and services that improve the availability of healthy, nutritious, and attractive food crops to people around the world.

By investing and collaborating with strategic partners in the development of conventional and biorational solutions that strengthen and protect crops, increase productivity, and reduce food loss and waste, Valent BioSciences is not only contributing to placing healthy food on tables, but also promoting long-term food security and environmental sustainability, thereby building a brighter and fresher future, added Mir.

About Valent Biosciences LLC

Headquartered in Libertyville, Illinois, Valent BioSciences is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. Valent BioSciences is a worldwide leader in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of biorational products and technologies used in the agriculture, public health, and forest health markets. The company has more than 60 years of experience bringing biorational products to market in 95 countries around the world and is ISO 9001 Certified. Valent BioSciences is also the parent company of Mycorrhizal Applications LLC, a leading supplier of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi-based products. For additional information, visit the companys website at www.valentbiosciences.com.

About Pace International LLC

Pace International is a global leader in sustainable postharvest solutions for the fresh produce industry. In collaboration with growers, packers, and agricultural organizations, Pace develops innovative technologies that enhance, protect, and preserve fruit and vegetable quality, while reducing food waste and protecting the environment.

About AgroFresh Solutions, Inc.

AgroFresh is a global leader in postharvest quality and freshness solutions that enhance quality and extend shelf-life of fresh produce, preventing food loss and waste. AgroFresh has been innovating for more than 40 years to address fresh produce supply chain challenges from all angles with a full suite of integrated storage, packing line and digital solutions. As the pioneer of SmartFreshTM, the worlds first introduction to 1-MCP technology used to slow ripening, and UvasysTM, the worlds first laminated SO2 generating sheets that prevent fungal decay in produce and flowers, AgroFresh has what it takes to empower growers, packers and retailers to succeed in their business of delivering fresh, quality and sustainable produce from harvest to home. AgroFresh is a portfolio company of Paine Schwartz Partners, a global leader in sustainable food chain investing. To learn more about AgroFresh, visit www.agrofresh.com.

Advisors

Houlihan Lokey served as financial advisor and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP served as legal counsel to Sumitomo Chemical and Valent BioSciences in this transaction. Deutsche Bank served as financial advisor to AgroFresh, and Morrison & Foerster LLP served as legal counsel to AgroFresh.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327760852/en/

John Mandel

Valent BioSciences LLC

405-403-3061

Email: [email protected]



Rochelle Ripp Schnadt

AgroFresh Inc.

262-771-0846

Email: [email protected]

Source: Valent Biosciences LLC
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Vanguard Renewables, a national leader in developing food and dairy waste-to-renewable energy projects in the United States, is proud to announce that the Company is selected as one of ten finalists for its outstanding work in Circular Technology by Reuters Events: Global Energy Transition Awards 2024.

With a decade of experience in clean energy innovation and organic materials solutions, Vanguard Renewables has emerged as a trailblazer in the organics-to-renewable energy industry. Since its inception in 2014, the company has expanded from managing two facilities to an impressive 32 sites across the United States. The Company continues to accelerate its growth across the Country and its goal is to provide a circular solution for food and beverage manufacturers and retailers from coast to coast.

I am thrilled that Vanguard Renewables innovative approach to creating a more circular economy has been recognized as a finalist for the 2024 Global Transition Award, stated Neil H. Smith, Chief Executive Officer at Vanguard Renewables. This recognition is a testament to Vanguards commitment to sustainability and leadership within the organics-to-renewable energy landscape. By embracing a circular approach, we are not only reducing waste but also creating a cleaner future powered by renewable resources.

Vanguard Renewables circular solution recycles food and beverage waste from the manufacturing and retail sectors via Farm Powered anaerobic digestion into renewable natural gas. Partnering with Vanguard Renewables on this circular approach, companies like Polar Beverages and Cabot Creamery not only recycle unavoidable organic manufacturing byproducts at a Farm Powered anaerobic digester, but they also purchase renewable energy derived from their food and beverage waste to power their manufacturing operations. In the case of Cabot Creamery, the milk used to manufacture the butter made at that plant is also produced at the multigenerational dairy farm where they recycle the organic material.

The Global Energy Transition Awards will take place on June 25, 2024, in New York, NY, and according to Reuters Events, The energy transition is both a social and business imperative, and it is vital that conversations around climate and sustainability are underpinned by the principles of integrity, independence, and freedom from bias. Guided by Thomson Reuters Trust Principles, the Global Energy Transition Awards embodies a non-discriminatory and inclusive approach to celebrating excellence on the transition pathway.

Vanguard Renewables believes that all industries need to work together to holistically find solutions and mitigation tools for our planets changing climate. It was for this reason that in 2020, Vanguard Renewables joined forces with industry leaders Starbucks, Unilever, and Dairy Farmers of America to launch the Farm Powered Strategic Alliance. This collaborative group of leading national and regional brands is dedicated to advancing sustainability, reducing food waste, expanding renewable energy production, creating circularity in cross-industrial sectors, and supporting regenerative agriculture practices. The Alliance has grown to more than twenty regional and national companies over the past four years.

The Companys Farm Powered anaerobic digestion facilities play a crucial role in reducing on-farm greenhouse gas emissions. By converting inedible food and beverage materials and dairy manure into renewable natural gas, the company supports the decarbonization efforts of food and beverage manufacturers and retailers and the process diverts material from less sustainable options like landfills or incinerators. To learn more about Vanguard Renewables and its circular solutions visit us at www.vanguardrenewables.com.

About Anaerobic Digestion

Inedible or unsaleable food and beverage waste from the manufacturing and retail sectors is collected, sorted, depackaged on-site, and combined with dairy farm manure in a sealed biodigester tank. Once combined in the biodigester, microorganisms that naturally occur in manure digest the waste, converting sugars, fats, and other compounds into biogas. Harnessing the wastes energy captures as much as 95 percent of the potential greenhouse gas emissions that would result if food and beverage waste were sent to a landfill or if the farm manure were field applied. The process produces RNG that is upgraded to pipeline-quality gas and injected into the existing pipeline infrastructure on-site, displacing traditional fossil fuels. The biogas is then used for heating and cooling or can be used to make Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for vehicles. The by-products of the anaerobic digestion process include a low-carbon and nutrient dense fertilizer (digestate) that reduces the farms dependency on chemical fertilizers, and a dry by-product which is used for animal bedding. When food and beverage manufacturers send their organic waste to a Farm Powered site and purchase the RNG created by their waste to power their plants, they are creating a closed-loop solution that helps to address Scope 1 and 3 emissions in their business practices.

About Vanguard Renewables

Vanguard Renewables, based in Weston, Massachusetts, is a national leader in developing food and dairy waste-to-renewable energy projects. The Company owns and operates on-farm anaerobic digester facilities in the northeast and currently operates manure-only digesters in the south and west for Dominion Energy. Vanguard Renewables is expanding nationwide and plans to complete more than 100 anaerobic digestion facilities by 2026. Vanguard Renewables is committed to advancing decarbonization by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from farms and food waste, generating renewable energy, and supporting regenerative agriculture on partner farms via Farm Powered anaerobic digestion. Vanguard Renewables is a portfolio company of funds managed by BlackRock. To learn more visit: www.vanguardrenewables.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327329714/en/

Media:

Billy Kepner

607-331-9806

[email protected]

Source: Vanguard Renewables
PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Western Alliance Bank today announced the appointment of Katie McDowell and Jon VanDerMeid to the organizations Commercial and Industrial Banking team. McDowell assumes the role of Senior Vice President, Relationship Manager to support the organizations Aerospace, Defense and Government Services team, and VanDerMeid takes on the role of Credit Underwriting and Portfolio Manager, Commercial & Industrial to support the broader Commercial and Industrial team.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327315080/en/

Jon VanDerMeid, Western Alliance Bank, Aerospace & Defense Group (Photo: Business Wire)

In a strategic step that reaffirms our commitment to providing outstanding, customized commercial banking for our clients, we are thrilled to welcome Katie McDowell and Jon VanDerMeid to the Western Alliance Bank team, said Matt Griesbach, Commercial and Industrial Industry Executive, Aerospace and Defense, at Western Alliance Bank. Through the expansion of our commercial banking team were able to elevate our service in an underserved market segment and continue to deliver a broad range of tailored banking solutions for companies of all sizes.

McDowell brings nearly two decades of experience to the Western Alliance Bank team, with deep commercial and industrial experience in the aerospace, defense, and government services sectors. McDowell holds a Bachelor of Art in American Studies from Brown University as well as a Master of Business Administration from Yale School of Management, where she studied Finance and Investment Management.

VanDerMeid also joins the Western Alliance Bank team with two decades of industry experience, holding pivotal roles in commercial, leasing and investment banking underwriting. VanDerMeid has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance from Michigan State University.

The additions of Katie McDowell and Jon VanDerMeid are part of our broader strategy to bring an even sharper, more dedicated focus to the Commercial and Industrial market  including in highly specialized sectors such as defense and government services, said Julian Parra, Head of Commercial Banking at Western Alliance Bank. In recent months, weve been building upon our already strong C&I foundation by adding incredible talent to the team, enabling us to better serve the burgeoning commercial market in California and beyond.

To learn more about Western Alliance Bank, visit www.westernalliancebancorporation.com.

About Western Alliance Bank

With more than $70 billion in assets, Western Alliance Bancorporation is one of the countrys top-performing banking companies. Its primary subsidiary, Western Alliance Bank, Member FDIC, offers a full spectrum of tailored commercial banking solutions and consumer products, all delivered with outstanding service by banking and mortgage experts who put customers first. Major accolades include being ranked as a top U.S. bank in 2023 by American Banker and Bank Director and receiving #1 rankings on Institutional Investor's All-America Executive Team Midcap 2023-2024 for Best CEO, Best CFO, Best Company Board of Directors and Best Investor Relations Team. Serving clients across the country wherever business happens, Western Alliance Bank operates individual, full-service banking and financial brands with offices in key markets nationwide. For more information, visit Western Alliance Bank.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327315080/en/

Media contact: Stephanie Whitlow, [email protected]

Source: Western Alliance Bancorporation
FILE PHOTO: An oil pumpjack is pictured in the Permian basin, Loco Hills regions, New Mexico, U.S., April 6, 2023. REUTERS/Liz Hampton/File Photo

By Shariq Khan

NEW YORK (Reuters) -Oil prices fell for the second consecutive session on Wednesday as the dollar strengthened and government data showed a surprise jump in U.S. crude and gasoline stocks.

Brent crude futures for May shed 16 cents, or 0.2%, to settle at $86.09 a barrel while the more actively traded June contract was down 22 cents to $85.41. The May contract expires on Thursday.

U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures for May delivery dropped 27 cents, or 0.3%, to $81.35 a barrel. Both Brent and WTI futures have been under selling pressure since hitting more than four-month highs last week.

A stronger U.S. dollar weighed on oil, with the U.S. dollar index gaining for a second consecutive session. A rising U.S. currency makes dollar-denominated oil more expensive for holders of other currencies, dampening demand.

A surprise jump in U.S. crude and gasoline stockpiles also added to the pressure on oil prices, analysts said. U.S. crude oil stocks rose by 3.2 million barrels while gasoline stocks rose by 1.3 million barrels in the week ended March 22, according to data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA).

Analysts polled by Reuters expected crude stocks to decline by 1.3 million barrels and gasoline stocks to drop by 1.7 million barrels.

Gasoline demand fell for a second straight week to 8.7 million barrels per day (bpd), down from 8.8 million bpd in the prior week, EIA data showed.

"Considering the fact that we're only making crude oil to make gasoline basically, that is a bearish development," said Robert Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies led by Russia, together known as OPEC+, are unlikely to change oil output policy until a full ministerial gathering in June, three OPEC+ sources told Reuters ahead of next week's meeting to review the market and members' implementation of output cuts.

OPEC+ this month agreed to extend output cuts of about 2.2 million bpd to the end of June, although Russia and Iraq have had to go to extra lengths to tackle over-production.

Those struggles have called into question the group's ability to comply with the agreed cuts, with OPEC having exceeded its targets by 190,000 bpd in February, a Reuters survey showed.

"The OPEC+ production cuts have sparked debate over volumes, particularly concerning Iraq's overproduction over the past two months," said Alex Hodes, energy analyst at StoneX.

"Another pivotal point is Russia's potential volume reduction," Hodes said. "Monitoring Russian oil flows in the upcoming quarter will be crucial for market observers," he added.

(Reporting by Shariq Khan in New York, Paul Carsten in London, Emily Chow in Singapore and Andrew Hayley in Beijing; Editing by David Goodman, Tomasz Janowski and Paul Simao)
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Infosys (NSE: INFY) today announced a strategic collaboration with the Handelsblatt Media Group, a leading media company for business and financial information in Germany . As an AI and Digital Innovation Partner for the Handelsblatt Media Group, Infosys will bring the best of digital technology to power innovative storytelling to inform and delight Handelsblatt's core audience.

In the first year of this partnership, Infosys will work with Handelsblatt Research Institute (HRI), an independent economic research institute under the umbrella of the Handelsblatt Media Group. Infosys will leverage Infosys Topaz, an AI-first set of services, solutions and platforms using generative AI technologies, to support the HRI in making complex HRI reports on global economic and financial topics more accessible and consumable for the public.

HRI has been consistently evolving the digital storytelling of its reports and, now leveraging its collaboration with Infosys, will enable new-age customizations like chat functionality, text translation and transformation, text-to-speech, and automatic data updates, among other key features. These innovations will help create an immersive presentation of HRI's reports, which are smart, reliable, characterized by scientific analysis, and are a widely accessible source of economic and financial information.

Dr. Jan Kleibrink , Managing Director, Handelsblatt Research Institute, said, "We are excited to collaborate with Infosys to offer cutting-edge, AI-enabled trend reports. One of the core tasks of the Handelsblatt Research Institute is to present complex economic relationships and the results of scientific analysis to a broad readership. We achieve this with texts of the highest journalistic quality and visual storytelling based on high-quality infographics. With Infosys as our AI and digital innovation partner, we now move to the next level of digital storytelling that is powered by AI."

Ashiss Kumar Dash, EVP & Global Head  Sustainability, Services, Utilities, Resources and Energy, Infosys, said, "We are delighted to become the AI and digital innovation partner of an organization that is known for its in-depth research reports on economy and finance. By leveraging our Generative AI capabilities, through Infosys Topaz, Handelsblatt Media group will redefine the storytelling experience for complex reports in journalism and making them more accessible to the public. The media industry is the digital fabric of our society, and Infosys aims to constantly deliver value and opportunity for all industry stakeholders."
The Timken Company (NYSE: TKR) Board of Directors has reached an agreement with Tarak Mehta to become Timken's next president and chief executive officer on Sept. 5, 2024 . Mehta is currently president of the Motion business and member of the Group Executive Committee at ABB Ltd., a $32 billion leader in electrification and automation. Mehta will be appointed Timken president and CEO after he completes a transition period with ABB.

Richard G. Kyle will remain president and CEO until Mehta's appointment date. At that time, Kyle will move into an advisory role to assist with the leadership transition. Kyle plans to retire as an employee of Timken following a decade of leadership as CEO but will continue to serve on the Timken Board of Directors.

Mehta has 35 years of industry experience, including a 26-year career at ABB. As president of ABB's Motion business, he has extensive experience accelerating organic growth and innovation across global industrial markets, scaling business portfolios through M&A transactions and helping customers save energy and improve efficiency. While at ABB, Mehta held a variety of global business leadership positions of increasing responsibility, including president of Electrification Products. Mehta will be joining the Timken team in North Canton, Ohio , and is expected to be appointed to the Timken Board of Directors at a future date.

"Today's announcement is the result of a leadership succession plan and follows a comprehensive CEO selection process led by the Board," said Timken Chairman, John M. Timken , Jr. "Bringing on a seasoned industry executive like Tarak as CEO underscores the Board's commitment to advancing Timken's industrial diversification strategy. Tarak is an accomplished and highly respected global executive. He is exceptionally qualified to lead Timken through our next chapter of growth and has a proven track record of developing global teams and operational excellence. Tarak's customer-centric innovation and market-leading growth strategies will further Timken's leadership across the globe."

Kyle joined Timken in 2006 and was appointed president and CEO in 2014. He is credited for transforming the company into a global diversified industrial leader while achieving record-levels of financial performance. As CEO, he established two industry-leading business segments, Engineered Bearings and Industrial Motion, and significantly evolved the company's market mix. Kyle's disciplined capital allocation, operational rigor and focus on profitable growth enabled Timken to build scale, enter new product lines, expand globally and diversify its end markets to drive shareholder value.
Carnival Corp. (NYSE: CCL) reported Q1 EPS of ($0.14), $0.03 better than the analyst estimate of ($0.17). Revenue for the quarter came in at $5.4 billion versus the consensus estimate of $5.33 billion.

2024 Outlook

Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore:

Given the timing of yesterday's event in Baltimore and the temporary change in homeport, our guidance does not include the current estimated impact of up to $10 million on both adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income for the full year 2024.

For the full year 2024, the company expects:

Net yields (in constant currency) up approximately 9.5 percent compared to 2023, over a point better than December guidance, based on continued strength in demand and with occupancy at historical levels.

Adjusted cruise costs excluding fuel (in constant currency) are $35 million better than December guidance, with adjusted cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD (in constant currency) 0.5 percentage points higher than December guidance as a result of lower ALBD's from the Red Sea rerouting as certain ships reposition without guests.

Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $5.63 billion, over 30 percent growth compared to 2023, and better than December guidance, despite the impact of the Red Sea rerouting of approximately $130 million or $0.09 adjusted EPS through November 2024.

For the second quarter of 2024, the company expects:

Net yields (in constant currency) up approximately 10.5 percent compared to 2023 levels, including the unfavorable impact from the Red Sea rerouting of 0.5 percentage points, with occupancy at historical levels.

Adjusted cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD (in constant currency) up approximately 3.0 percent compared to the second quarter of 2023, including the unfavorable impact of 1.3 percentage points as a result of lower ALBD's from the Red Sea rerouting as certain ships reposition without guests.

Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $1.05 billion, over 50 percent growth compared to the second quarter of 2023.

See "Guidance" and "Reconciliation of Forecasted Data" for additional information on the company's 2024 outlook.

For earnings history and earnings-related data on Carnival Corp. (CCL) click here.
From alcohol to cigarettes, most adults have tried some form of recreational drug. Fewer people have experimented with prescription medication for recreational reasons, but certain areas of the country are experiencing a serious problem with opoid addiction. Other drugs like cocaine and LSD, are used sporadically among adults in the U.S.

Using data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Data Archive, the experts at HealthGrove, a health data site, ranked the 25 most commonly used recreational drugs. The substances are ordered by the increasing percentage of people age 12 and over who used the drug recreationally in 2015. In the case of a tie, the drug with a higher classification by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is ranked higher.

To collect this data, SAMHDA conducts the annual National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in which they record use of illicit drugs, alcohol and tobacco in the U.S. population aged 12 or older. It is important to note that this data only includes recreational use of drugs, not proper medical use.

Drugs that are legal, alcohol and tobacco, have the highest recreational use. According to the survey, nearly one in five people over the age of 12 also used marijuana in 2015. As the drug becomes legal in more states, recreational use is likely to increase. Other Schedule I drugs (drugs determined to have no medical benefit by the DEA) including heroin and DMT had a recreational prevalence rate of less than 1 percent in 2015.

Note: Not all images in slideshow depict the exact drugs.
(Reuters) -U.S.-based Keysight Technologies is preparing to launch a formal offer for British telecommunications testing firm Spirent Communications, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters on Wednesday.

Sky News reported the development first and said the offer would be valued at about 1.15 billion pounds ($1.45 billion), or roughly 200 pence per share.

On March 5, U.S.-listed communications equipment firm Viavi Solutions had agreed to buy Spirent for about 1.01 billion pounds. As part of the deal, Spirent shareholders would get 175 pence per share.

The offer from Keysight represents an 84.5% premium to Spirent's closing price of 108.40 pence on March 4, compared with Viavi's premium of 61.4%.

Some institutional shareholders in Spirent had indicated that they would vote in favor of Viavi's offer, but believed it was opportunistic and left the door ajar for a rival bidder, the Sky News report added.

Spirent Communications, Viavi Solutions and Keysight Technologies did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment.

($1 = 0.7915 pounds)

(Reporting by Shivani Tanna and Aishwarya Jain in Bengaluru and Anousha Sakoui in London; Editing by Vijay Kishore and Devika Syamnath)
FILE PHOTO: The logo of Robinhood Markets, Inc. is seen at a pop-up event on Wall Street after the company's IPO in New York City, U.S., July 29, 2021. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo

By Manya Saini

(Reuters) - Shares of Robinhood Markets jumped on Wednesday after the financial technology firm launched a credit card, as it expands its product offerings in order to reduce its reliance on market-sensitive trading revenue.

The Menlo Park, California-based company's shares were last up 4% in afternoon trading, having hit their highest since December 2021 earlier in the session.

Retail-investor focused Robinhood is set to offer its premium 'Gold' tier customers a credit card which would have no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees and offers 3% cashback, in the form of reward points, on spends.

"Tieing the credit card to Robinhood's Gold program should be accretive to revenues because of the profitable options trading and use of margin that comes with it," said Michael Ashley Schulman, partner and CIO at Running Point Capital Advisors.

Robinhood was at the center of the 2021 retail trading frenzy, driven by mom-and-pop investors who used the company's commission-free platform to pump money into so-called "meme stocks" during the pandemic-era lockdowns.

In February, the company said it was aiming to expand margins while being focused on driving 'profitable growth' this year, after reporting a surprise quarterly profit.

It has also benefited from the increased activity of retail traders - its main client base - this year against a rally in both the capital as well as crypto markets.

The turnaround in trading activity and an increased focus on profitability have together sparked a rally in the fintech's stock, that has surged over 50% so far this year.

"Robinhood has been strategizing for a while to increase customer excitement, spur engagement, and incentivize more established individual investors," Schulman added.

Short interest in the stock is currently at 5.88% of the free float, with short-sellers sitting on over $200 million in paper losses from the beginning of 2024, as of previous close, according to data from Ortex.

(Reporting by Manya Saini in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri)
AB Akola Group invests EUR 9.5 million in a seed factory in Latvia. The factory, which is expected to be operational by mid-2025, is being built by the subsidiary SIA Dotnuva Seeds on its own land in Iecava. The maximum annual capacity of the factory will be around 30 thousand tons of cereal and leguminous plants seeds.



In the design of the factory, we plan to use a promising new seed preparation technology that will make seed production more sustainable. Colleagues recently visited a factory where this technology is already in use. It is brand new, and we are observing how they get on. We plan to design the factory's infrastructure to use the technology and hope to apply the latest technology in our future factory sooner or later. We estimate that the investment will pay for itself in seven years," says Mazvydas Sileika, the Chief Financial Officer of AB Akola Group.

The future factory will have a total area of 4,550 square meters. It will include a production unit, a warehouse, and a two-story administrative building with a laboratory, office workstations, and technical facilities.

"The future factory will allow faster access to Latvian and Estonian farmers, shortening the logistics chain. We are working with as many as 30 breeders from different European countries, researching and introducing new varieties suitable for the climate of each country. Farmers will benefit greatly from the increased diversity of supply. We have foreseen the possibility of using promising new Swedish seed preparation technologies in production," says Jonas Baksys, a Member of the Management Board of AB Akola group and CEO of SIA Dotnuva Seeds.

Last year, two seed production companies were set up in Lithuania and Latvia to strengthen the production of certified seeds. The seed factory in Dotnuva, Lithuania, annually produces around 27 thousand tons of 'Dotnuva Seeds' branded seeds. Seeds are traded by another subsidiary of AB Akola group, AB Linas Agro, headed by Jonas Baksys since March. The company sells certified seeds in all Baltic countries and exports some to other European countries. In the first half of the 2023/2024 financial year, which ended on 31 December, the company sold more than 20 thousand tons of seeds, an increase of almost 14% compared to last year.

"The demand for certified seeds is growing as farmers understand the returns these seeds generate. Today, we can sell more seeds than we produce. Five years ago, we produced around 20 thousand tons of seed within the year - even a little less than we sold in the last six months. We plan to produce around 20 thousand tons of cereal and legume seeds in Latvia annually when the factory starts up. If the market continues to grow, we will increase the factory's capacity to 30 thousand tons of seeds," says J. Baksys.





About AB Akola Group

AB Akola Group owns the largest agricultural and food production group in the Baltics, employing 4.9 thousand people. The group operates along the entire food production chain from farm to fork, producing, preparing and marketing agricultural and food products, and supplying goods and services to farmers. The group's financial year starts in July and its revenue for the last financial year was almost 2 billion euro. The group is building an instant food plant in Alytus, Lithuania, and designing a biogas plant in the Sakiai district and a breadcrumb factory.

More information:



Mazvydas Sileika, Chief Financial Officer, AB Akola Group

Mob. +370 619 19 403

E-mail [email protected]
NEWMARKET, Ontario, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AirBoss of America Corp. (TSX: BOS) (OTCQX:ABSSF) (the Company or AirBoss) today announced that it has amended its senior secured revolving credit facilities. Key changes include the following:



A downsizing of the credit facility from US$250 million to US$150 million in 2024 and 2025, and US$175 million thereafter;

Commencing with dividends payable after April 2024, the Company will pay a maximum quarterly dividend of CAD$1.0 million, until the end of 2025;

A maximum of US$10 million in 2024 and US$20 million in 2025, of capital expenditures, unless approved by the lenders; and

Replacing the leverage and interest coverage ratios with minimum Adjusted EBITDA and liquidity requirements, and excluding certain charges from the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA, until the end of 2024.

We appreciate the continued support of our syndicate of lenders, said Chris Bitsakakis, President and Co-CEO of AirBoss. While these amendments require some adjustments to our dividend and capital expenditure policies, we believe they are in the best interest of our shareholders and other stakeholders as they will enable us to invest in our long-term growth and create sustainable value while prioritizing deleveraging, continuing our goal of transforming AirBoss into a global market leader in the custom rubber compounding market and the industries which we serve.

The syndicate of lenders remains The Toronto-Dominion Bank, as sole lead arranger, National Bank of Canada, Comerica Bank, J.P. Morgan, Bank of Montreal, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and Royal Bank of Canada.

About AirBoss

AirBoss of America is a diversified developer, manufacturer and provider of survivability solutions, advanced custom rubber compounds and finished rubber products that are designed to outperform in the most challenging environments. Founded in 1989, the company operates through two divisions. AirBoss Rubber Solutions is a North American custom rubber compounder with 500 million turn pounds of annual capacity. AirBoss Manufactured Products is a supplier of anti-vibration and rubber-molded solutions to the North American automotive market and other sectors, and also a global supplier of personal and respiratory protective equipment and technology for the defense, healthcare, medical and first responder communities, through its AirBoss Defense operations. The Companys shares trade on the TSX under the symbol BOS and on the OTCQX under the symbol ABSSF. Visit www.airboss.com for more information.

AIRBOSS FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION DISCLAIMER

Certain statements contained or incorporated by reference herein, including those that express managements expectations or estimates of future developments or AirBoss future performance, constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws, and can generally be identified by words such as will, may, could expects, believes, anticipates, forecasts, plans, intends, should or similar expressions. These statements are not historical facts but instead represent managements expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events and performance.

Statements containing forward-looking information are necessarily based upon a number of opinions, estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at the time the statements are made, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies. AirBoss cautions that such forward-looking information involves known and unknown contingencies, uncertainties and other risks that may cause AirBoss actual financial results, performance or achievements to be materially different from its estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Numerous factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking information, including without limitation: impact of general economic conditions, notably including its impact on demand for rubber solutions and products; dependence on key customers; global defense budgets, notably in the Companys target markets, and success of the Company in obtaining new or extended defense contracts; cyclical trends in the tire and automotive, construction, mining and retail industries; sufficient availability of raw materials at economical costs; weather conditions affecting raw materials, production and sales; AirBoss ability to maintain existing customers or develop new customers in light of increased competition; AirBoss ability to successfully integrate acquisitions of other businesses and/or companies or to realize on the anticipated benefits thereof; AirBoss ability to successfully develop and execute effective business strategies; changes in accounting policies and methods, including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates; changes in the value of the Canadian dollar relative to the US dollar; changes in tax laws; current and future litigation; ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms and ability to satisfy the covenants set forth in such financing arrangements; environmental damage and non-compliance with environmental laws and regulations; impact of global health situations; potential product liability and warranty claims and equipment malfunction. There is increased uncertainty associated with future operating assumptions and expectations as compared to prior periods. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of AirBoss forward-looking information.

All of the forward-looking information in this press release is expressly qualified by these cautionary statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking information attributable to AirBoss or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. Forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this press release and, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, AirBoss disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly the forward-looking information except as required by applicable laws. Risks and uncertainties about AirBoss business are more fully discussed under the heading Risk Factors in our most recent Annual Information Form and are otherwise disclosed in our filings with securities regulatory authorities which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.
Smithtown, New York, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- America's VetDogs, a leading provider of assistance dogs to veterans and first responders with disabilities, is proud to announce it has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Community Service Citizens Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. This esteemed recognition highlights America's VetDogs' unwavering commitment to serving those who have bravely served our nation.

Each year, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society acknowledges organizations and individuals who demonstrate outstanding dedication to their communities and exemplify the values of courage, sacrifice, and selflessness. The Community Service Citizens Award is particularly significant as it underscores the impact of organizations that go above and beyond to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Specifically, the award recognizes a community-based non-profit organization for its exceptional impact or mission in supporting our nations military service members and families.

"We are honored to receive the 2024 Community Service Citizens Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society," said John Miller, President, and CEO of America's VetDogs. "This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters who work tirelessly to fulfill our mission of enhancing the lives of veterans and first responders with disabilities. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve those who have sacrificed so much for our country. It was truly an honor to meet many of The Medal of Honor recipients and hear their stories of valor directly from them.

America's VetDogs recognition by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society highlights the vital role of service dogs in aiding individuals with disabilities and the deep bond between humans and canines. The national nonprofit has placed more than 1,000 service dogs since 2003, supporting thousands of veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders as well as their families and loved ones. Through expertly trained service dogs and ongoing support, the organization makes a lasting impact which changes and saves lives. As it celebrates this recognition, America's VetDogs remains dedicated to serving veterans and first responders nationwide, upholding its legacy of empowerment and honoring their noble service.

For more information about America's VetDogs, please visit vetdogs.org. For images and produced video of the awards, click here.

For media inquiries, please contact: Allison Storck, 631-334-2615, [email protected]

About America's VetDogs:For 20 years, Americas VetDogs (www.VetDogs.org) has trained and placed guide and service dogs to provide independence, enhanced mobility, and companionship to veterans with disabilities from all eras. In 2015, VetDogs opened its programs to first responders, including fire, police, and emergency medical personnel. Americas VetDogs is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization founded by the Guide Dog Foundation and serves clients from across the United States. Americas VetDogs relies on contributions from generous individuals, corporations, service clubs, and foundations to fund its mission to help those who have served our country live with dignity and independence. It costs over $50,000 to breed, raise, train, and place one assistance dog, but Americas VetDogs provides its services completely free of charge to the individuals it serves. Americas VetDogs has been accredited by both the International Guide Dog Federation and Assistance Dogs International.

###

Attachment

Allison Storck America's VetDogs 6313342615 [email protected]

Source: Guide Dog Foundation
Aspocomp Group Plc, Annual Financial Report, March 27, 2024, at 9:00 a.m.





Aspocomp Group Plc has published today its Annual Report 2023 and Corporate Governance Statement 2023.



The Annual Report 2023 contains Aspocomps consolidated financial statements, the parent company financial statements, Report of the Board of Directors and the Auditors Report. Aspocomp's Annual Report in Finnish has been published in accordance with European Single Electronic Format (ESEF) reporting requirements as an Extensible Hypertext Markup Language (xHTML) file. In line with the ESEF requirements, the primary financial statements have been marked up with XBRL tags and the notes to the financial statements have been labeled with XBRL block tags. The audit firm PricewaterhouseCoopers Oy has provided an independent auditors reasonable assurance report on Aspocomps Finnish-language ESEF Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with ISAE 3000 (Revised). The auditors reasonable assurance report is included in the xHTML file.



The official Finnish-language ESEF-format Annual Report (as an XHTML file) and the attached non-official English translation (in PDF format) are available at www.aspocomp.com.



Further, the Corporate Governance Statement is also attached to this release as a PDF file and is available at www.aspocomp.com.





For further information, please contact Mikko Montonen, President and CEO,

tel. +358 20 775 6860, mikko.montonen(at)aspocomp.com.



ASPOCOMP GROUP PLC



Mikko Montonen

President and CEO





Aspocomp  heart of your technology



A printed circuit board (PCB) is used for electrical interconnection and as a component assembly platform in electronic devices. Aspocomp provides PCB technology design, testing and logistics services over the entire lifecycle of a product. The companys own production and extensive international partner network guarantee cost-effectiveness and reliable deliveries.



Aspocomps customers are companies that design and manufacture telecommunication systems and equipment, automotive and industrial electronics, and systems for testing semiconductor components for security technology. The company has customers around the world and most of its net sales are generated by exports.



Aspocomp is headquartered in Espoo and its plant is in Oulu, one of Finlands major technology hubs.



www.aspocomp.com





Attachments
Married team moves from Edward Jones seeking greater practice management flexibility, the support of Avantax Home Office experts, and an array of solutions for complex cases

DALLAS, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avantax Inc., a leader in tax-focused financial planning and wealth management, is pleased to welcome Heidi and Nicholas Irwin, married advisors who transferred to Avantax after many years of affiliation with Edward Jones, where the couple report having managed more than $250 million in total client assets, as of March 20, 2024*. The couple joins current Avantax affiliate Alliance Wealth Strategies LLC.



Heidi Irwin joined her fathers financial planning practice in 2014, decades after he started it in the Central Texas town of Lockhart, known as The Barbecue Capital of Texas. Nicholas joined the family business in 2020. The couple chose to transfer to Avantax because they were attracted to the flexibility of the independent financial advisor model and having access to, and the support of, experts in the Avantax Home Office, especially to provide clients with solutions for complex cases.

We feel strongly that to do our best work, especially for high-net-worth clients with complex cases, we need access to advanced tools, resources and experts like we know are available with Avantax, financial advisor Heidi Irwin said. Were looking forward to having more in-depth, tax-focused financial planning conversations with clients because the plethora of what Avantax offers for addressing tax issues will strongly complement my and Nics strengths.

Having been part of a family-owned business for many years, personal relationships are key to Heidi and Nic, and they said theyve seen that reflected in the culture of the Avantax Community.

I was so impressed during our Avantax Home Office Visit because it wasnt just a few representatives, we met with the heads of departments and felt like we were already receiving a lot of care from each person we talked with, Heidi Irwin said. My eyes were opened to how, with Avantax, we can offer solutions that are much more targeted to an individual clients needs, and the Home Office Visit showed that Avantax tailors its approach not only to the needs of end-clients, but also to what advisors need in order to run their practice the way they as independent advisors want to operate it.

Nic Irwin said his passion for supporting financial planning with investment research and data analytics fits well with Avantaxs emphasis on tax-intelligent planning.

Part of this move is so we can partner with others in the Avantax Community including CPAs because backed by all that expertise, even complex cases become easier conversations to have with clients, Nic Irwin said. For me, Avantax gives us the ability to provide clients with better products and a better experience. Ill have access to more investment tools and analytical resources, and that frees up Heidi to do what she does best, which is sitting down with clients and doing the deep and holistic financial planning.

In welcoming the Irwins, Avantax Wealth Management President Todd Mackay said: Heidi and Nic are an amazing cultural fit with Avantax, and I expect that they will be a terrific addition to both the Avantax Community and the Alliance Wealth Strategies team, where independent Avantax advisors Dustin Gersch and Bryan Clegg have been extraordinary partners of Avantax for many years.

Tax and financial professionals can learn more about Avantax by clicking here.

*Value approximated based on asset holding details provided to Avantax.

About Avantax

Avantax, Inc. (Avantax), a unique community within Cetera Holdings, delivers tax-intelligent wealth management solutions for financial professionals, tax professionals and CPA firms, supporting its goal of minimizing clients tax burdens through comprehensive tax-intelligent financial planning. Avantax has two distinct, but related, models within its business: the independent Financial Professional model and the employee-based model. Avantax refers to its independent Financial Professional model as Avantax Wealth Management. Avantax Wealth Management (AWM) works with a nationwide network of Financial Professionals operating as independent contractors and offers its services through its registered broker-dealer, Avantax Investment Services, Inc., registered investment advisor (RIA), Avantax Advisory Services, Inc., and insurance agency subsidiaries. We refer to our employee-based model as Avantax Planning Partners. Avantax Planning Partners offers services through its RIA, insurance agency, and affiliated broker-dealer, Avantax Investment Services, Inc., and partners with CPA firms to provide their consumer and small-business clients with holistic financial planning and advisory services. Collectively, Avantax had $92.8 billion in total client assets as of Dec. 31, 2023. For additional information, please visit www.avantax.com.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/763b11c4-169a-4283-8cfb-4a27cc84bc68
MIAMI, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AYR Wellness Inc. (CSE: AYR.A, OTCQX: AYRWF) (AYR or the Company), a leading vertically integrated U.S. multi-state cannabis operator (MSO), today announced that its flagship cannabis brand, kynd, will launch its first line of premium edibles in Florida and Nevada. Patients in Florida can now begin exploring kynd's newest offering, with Nevada to follow in the coming weeks.

kynd breaks into the growing edibles market with a selection of naturally flavored, reliably dosed, melt-proof, vegan and gluten-free edibles that amplify creativity and relaxation with effect-based terpenes and cannabinoids, designed to deliver a combination of deliciousness and effectiveness that take cannabis adventures to new heights. Offerings include:

UPLIFT Gummies: Available in Sour Strawberry and Sour Watermelon, these mood-boosting, energizing Sativa gummies inspire creativity and awaken potential.

Available in Sour Strawberry and Sour Watermelon, these mood-boosting, energizing Sativa gummies inspire creativity and awaken potential. RELAX Gummies: Journey to a place of total relaxation with these soothing, calming, Indica delectables, available in Sour Blue Raspberry and Tropical Pineapple.

Journey to a place of total relaxation with these soothing, calming, Indica delectables, available in Sour Blue Raspberry and Tropical Pineapple. BALANCE Gummies: With a perfectly paired 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD, these blissfully effective edibles invite consumers on a peaceful, Florida Orange or Black Cherry-flavored journey.

With a perfectly paired 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD, these blissfully effective edibles invite consumers on a peaceful, Florida Orange or Black Cherry-flavored journey. SLEEP Gummies: Blending a 2:1 ratio of CBN and Indica terpenes, these Bedtime Blueberry gummies allow consumers to unwind and enjoy a restful nights sleep.

Blending a 2:1 ratio of CBN and Indica terpenes, these Bedtime Blueberry gummies allow consumers to unwind and enjoy a restful nights sleep. ENERGY Gummies: Low Dose, High Energy. These tart Sativa treats have 1mg of THC and 5mg of THCV, a minor cannabinoid associated with increased focus and alertness. Perfect for checking items off your to-do list!

kynd's Sour Watermelon UPLIFT, Black Cherry BALANCE, and Sour Blue Raspberry and Tropical Pineapple RELAX Gummies are now available in Florida. Additional flavors will be available in Florida and Nevada at a later date.

"As we continue to relaunch our flagship cannabis brand, kynd, we are thrilled to expand the brands offerings into new categories like edibles," said David Goubert, President and CEO of AYR. "Edibles are a growing product category that caters to both new and longtime cannabis consumers. We believe our customers in Florida and Nevada will be thrilled with the new offerings, and we look forward to introducing kynd edibles to customers and wholesale partners in additional states later this year. Whether it's time to unwind and relax or it's a bright, sunny day fit for fun and celebration, kynd has an edible that will enhance your day."

The launch of kynd's premium edibles builds upon the debut of its refreshed brand identity. Adding to its dynamic collection of premium flower, kynd's first collection of gummies puts AYR's flagship brand in a position to positively impact the $2.2B edibles market. The revitalized brand is dedicated to meeting all patients' needs while building a holistic presence that prioritizes both the plant and community. The brands "Season of Kyndness" initiative raised over $60K in donations for local nonprofit organizations nationwide in December of 2023, with notable funds raised for the Veterans Cannabis Project in AYRs home state of Florida.

To learn more about Season of Kyndness, kynd's refreshed brand identity or the launch of premium edibles in Florida and Nevada, please visit www.kynd.com or @kyndflower on Instagram.

About AYR Wellness Inc.AYR Wellness is a vertically integrated, U.S. multi-state cannabis business. The Company operates simultaneously as a retailer with 90+ licensed dispensaries and a house of cannabis CPG brands.

AYR is committed to delivering high-quality cannabis products to its patients and customers while acting as a Force for Good for its team members and the communities that the Company serves. For more information, please visit www.ayrwellness.com.

Company/Media Contact:Robert VaniskoVP, Public EngagementT: (786) 885-0397Email: [email protected]

Company/Investor Relations Contact:Jon DeCourceyHead of Investor RelationsT: (786) 885-0397Email: [email protected]

Investor Relations Contact:Sean Mansouri, CFAElevate IRT: (786) 885-0397Email: [email protected]

Source: Ayr Wellness Inc.
NEW ORLEANS, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Beau Box Real Estate, a leading force in Louisianas commercial real estate industry, is pleased to announce the upcoming auction of 744 St. Charles Ave, an unparalleled development site poised for a transformative future. The property will go under the hammer on May 2, 2024 at 2PM at The Ritz Carlton New Orleans, offering a unique chance for visionary developers and investors to shape the landscape of one of New Orleans' most iconic streets.

The potential of 744 St. Charles Ave is endless, says Beau Box, Founder and CEO of Beau Box Real Estate. We invite visionaries and investors to explore this opportunity for development and contribute to the vibrant character of the neighborhood.

Auction Details:May 2, 2024The Ritz Carlton New Orleans921 Canal Street, Union Terrace C, New Orleans, LA 70112Check in: 12:00 PMAuction Start Time: 2:00 PM

Bidder Deposit:

$25,000 payable by certified funds, business check, personal check or wire transfer

Deposits will be returned to unsuccessful bidders

The property is a prime location and includes an impressive 64 linear feet of frontage along the renowned St. Charles Avenue, strategically positioned on the streetcar line and Mardi Gras parade route, and is perfect for redevelopment.

Originally approved for The Moxy Hotel in 2016, Beau Box Real Estate believes that the auction of 744 St. Charles Ave presents an unprecedented opportunity for investors to revitalize and redefine this prime location.

Pre-auction showings are by appointment only. Interested parties may contact Tommy Bone at (256) 504-7653 or [email protected] to schedule. For more information on the auction, please visit the auction website at www.744stcharles.com.

About Beau Box Real Estate:Beau Box Real Estate is a distinguished real estate firm known for its commitment to excellence, innovation and delivering premium real estate solutions. With a proven track record of success, Beau Box Real Estate continues to be a driving force in the industry, shaping the landscapes of communities and creating lasting value for its clients.

Media Contact:Rebecca Wilbee, SASSO[email protected]Cell: 541.404.1672

Source: Beau Box Real Estate
A 27-year-old man notified the U.S. District Court of Nebraska that he intends to plead guilty to selling fentanyl-laced pills that killed an Omaha man.

Patrick J. Hoshor, according to federal court documents, will change his plea at a hearing in April. His trial was slated to start this week.

Hoshor, an Omaha resident, was charged with providing two pills laced with fentanyl to Brandon Revere, 36. According to an affidavit, Revere died April 1, 2023, at his home near 99th and Maple Streets after purchasing the pills from Hoshor on the previous day.

Revere's wife called the police just before 5 a.m. to say she found her husband down in their bathroom with a needle on his thigh. The affidavit said that Revere had gotten out of bed to change the diapers of a baby while his wife went to the kitchen.

The wife noticed her husband had gone into the bathroom and locked the door. She was able to unlock the bathroom door, call 911 and begin performing CPR. Omaha Fire Department paramedics took over life-saving measures and transported Revere to Methodist Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Investigators at the scene noticed an small plastic bag that was empty on the bathroom counter. Nearby was an unopened beer can that had a light-blue crushed substance on its top. Fentanyl-laced counterfeit oxycodone pills are most commonly light blue in color, the affidavit said.

Texts on Revere's phone were found asking about meeting up with a man called "Patrick" to buy drugs. The two men, according to the texts, were to meet at the Mega Saver near 108th and Maple Streets where "Patrick" agreed to sell Revere drugs. Security video at the store recorded the meeting.

Hoshor was arrested four days later after federal agents, using Revere's phone, arranged for another drug buy to be conducted at the Casey's at 5718 Northwest Radial Highway. Officers made contact with Hoshor, who was driving the same silver Chevrolet Suburban recorded in the MegaSaver meeting with Revere.

After being read his Miranda rights, Hoshor, who did not have any drugs on him, told officers that he had intended to take Revere to an Elkhorn neighborhood home to obtain pills.
METTAWA, Ill, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), the worlds largest recreational marine technology company, has been named by Newsweek to its list of Americas Most Trustworthy Companies for the second consecutive year. Of the thousands of companies considered for this honor, only 700 made the final list and Brunswick ranked among the top 15 companies within the Manufacturing and Industrial Equipment category. The award recognizes companies across three main public pillars of trust  customer trust, investor trust, and employee trust.

We are honored to once again see Brunswick recognized on Newsweeks list of Most Trustworthy Companies in America, said Dave Foulkes, CEO, Brunswick Corporation. As a testament to our commitment of leading with our values in each aspect of our business, this award recognizes the openness, trust and integrity we display in dealing with our employees, our customers, and our investors. I would like to thank our global workforce for their role in shaping our One Brunswick culture and transforming the future of the marine industry.

The top 700 Most Trustworthy Companies spanned 23 industries and were chosen based on a holistic assessment of trustworthiness. Those that made the list were identified in an independent survey based on a large sample of approximately 25,000 U.S. residents who rated companies they know on the three touchpoints of trust. A total of 95,000 evaluations were submitted. All companies headquartered in the US with a revenue over $500 million were considered in the study.

Recently, Brunswick has been recognized with numerous national awards highlighting the companys commitment to employee and customer satisfaction. Recent awards include:

To learn more about Brunswicks culture, visit: brunswick.com/our-company, and to view the entire 2024 list of Americas Most Trustworthy Companies, visit: https://www.newsweek.com/rankings/most-trustworthy-companies-america-2024.

About Brunswick
CALGARY, Alberta, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canacol Energy Ltd. ("Canacol" or the "Corporation") (TSX:CNE; OTCQX:CNNEF; BVC: CNEC) is pleased to provide the following information concerning the new Pomelo 1 gas discovery.

Pomelo 1 encounters 96 feet of net gas pay

The Pomelo 1 exploration well, located on the 100 percent operated VIM-21 Exploration and Production (E&P) contract, was spud on February 19, 2024 and reached a total depth of 12,276 feet measured depth on March 3, 2024. The well encountered 96 feet true vertical depth of net gas pay with average porosity of 21 percent within the primary Cienaga de Oro (CDO) sandstone reservoir.

The CDO reservoir was perforated over a 48-foot Interval and was tied into the existing flowline to the Betania substation. The well is producing with a downhole gauge into the Jobo gas treatment facility. The well started at a production rate of 4 million standard cubic feet per day ("MMscpd") for 6 hours at a choke 21/128. The rate was subsequently increased to 6 MMscfd and 8 MMscfpd for 6 hours and 24 hours respectively. The well was tested at a rate of up to 10 MMscfpd at choke of 30/128, and is now producing into the Jobo gas treatment plant at a controlled rate of 8 MMscpd.

The Corporation is currently mobilizing the rig to drill the Chontaduro 1 exploration well located approximately 3 kilometers to the north of Pomelo discovery. The Chontaduro 1 well is targeting the CDO sandstone reservoir, with a secondary uphole target within the Porquero sandstone reservoir, both of which are productive in the area. Chontaduro 1 will spud prior to the first week of April 2024, and will take approximately 3 weeks to drill and complete.

About Canacol

Canacol is a natural gas exploration and production company with operations focused in Colombia. The Corporation's common stock trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange, the OTCQX in the United States of America, and the Colombia Stock Exchange under ticker symbol CNE, CNNEF, and CNEC, respectively.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur, including without limitation statements relating to estimated production rates from the Corporation's properties and intended work programs and associated timelines. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The Corporation cannot assure that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. They are made as of the date hereof and are subject to change and the Corporation assumes no obligation to revise or update them to reflect new circumstances, except as required by law. Prospective investors should not place undue reliance on forward looking statements. These factors include the inherent risks involved in the exploration for and development of crude oil and natural gas properties, the uncertainties involved in interpreting drilling results and other geological and geophysical data, fluctuating energy prices, the possibility of cost overruns or unanticipated costs or delays and other uncertainties associated with the oil and gas industry. Other risk factors could include risks associated with negotiating with foreign governments as well as country risk associated with conducting international activities, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Corporation.

The data obtained from the initial well test results identified in this press release should be considered preliminary until further detailed analysis of such data is performed. The well test results obtained and disclosed in this press release are not necessarily indicative of long-term performance or ultimate recovery. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such results, as such results may not be indicative of the future performance of the well or the expected future production results for the Corporation.

For more information please contact: Investor Relations South America: +571.621.1747 [email protected] Global: +1.403.561.1648 [email protected]

Source: Canacol Energy Ltd.
EDMONTON, Alberta, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Capital Power (TSX: CPX) has entered into a 15-year virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) with Saputo Inc. (TSX: SAP). The long-term commitment, supported by leading energy procurement advisor Schneider Electric, marks a key milestone in Saputos sustainability efforts as it makes significant strides towards its climate target for 2025 and future environmental goals.

The agreement pertains to Capital Powers Canadian-based wind facility (Halkirk 2 Wind) currently under construction. Subject to final regulatory approvals and once operational, the portion of the wind facility contracted by Saputo will generate approximately 206,300 MWh of renewable electricity per year. The new VPPA will ultimately cut down Saputos global CO2 footprint by 13 per cent (against its fiscal 2020 baseline).

As a global leader in the food industry, it is vital we demonstrate our commitment to the long-term sustainability of the dairy industry, said Carl Colizza, President and Chief Operating Officer (North America) for Saputo. This VPPA is an important step in sourcing clean, renewable electricity to reduce the carbon footprint of our North American operations, so that we may play our part as a sustainable dairy processor and safeguard the environment for future generations.

We are pleased to collaborate with industry leaders such as Saputo and Schneider Electric in delivering reliable, affordable and decarbonized energy to our North American customer base, said Jason Comandante, Senior Vice President, Head of Canada for Capital Power. Through this agreement, we are again able to showcase our ability to collaborate and innovate, creating mutually beneficial partnerships to reduce emissions and support achieving broader climate change targets.

This collaboration between Saputo and Schneider Electric represents a global best practice for todays needed energy transition, demonstrating the power of innovative partnerships and technology while also strengthening Saputos position as a leading sustainable dairy processor, said John Powers, Vice President of Renewable Energy & Cleantech for Schneider Electric.

Capital Power Forward-looking information

Certain information in this news release is forward-looking information for Capital Power within the meaning of Canadian securities laws as it relates to anticipated financial or operating performance or events. When used in this context, words such as expected, will or similar words suggest future outcomes. By their nature, such statements are subject to significant risks, assumptions and uncertainties, which could cause Capital Powers actual results and experience to be materially different than the anticipated results. Forward-looking information or statements included in this news release are provided to inform Capital Powers shareholders and potential investors about managements assessment of future plans and operations. This information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Material forward-looking information in this press release include, among others, expectations pertaining to the timing of commercial operations and the renewable energy generation output expected from the Halkirk 2 Wind project.

This statement is based on certain assumptions and analyses made by Capital Power in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments, and other factors it believes are appropriate, including assumptions around: (i) performance; and (ii) the status of and impact of policy, legislation and regulations. Whether the actual timing will conform to Capital Powers expectations is subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties which could cause the actual timing to differ materially from Capital Powers expectations. Such material risks and uncertainties are: (i) regulatory and political environments including changes to environmental legislation; and (ii) changes in general economic and competitive conditions. See risk factors in Capital Powers 2023 Integrated Annual Report, for further discussion of these and other risks.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the specified approval date. Capital Power does not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in Capital Powers expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.

Territorial Acknowledgement

In the spirit of reconciliation, Capital Power respectfully acknowledges that we operate within the ancestral homelands, traditional and treaty territories of the Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island, or North America. Capital Powers head office is located within the traditional and contemporary home of many Indigenous Peoples of the Treaty 6 region and Metis Nation of Alberta Region 4. We acknowledge the diverse Indigenous communities that are located in these areas and whose presence continues to enrich the community.

About Capital Power

Capital Power is a growth-oriented power producer committed to net zero by 2045, with approximately 9,300 MW of power generation at 32 facilities across North America.

We prioritize delivering reliable, affordable and decarbonized power that communities can depend on, building decarbonized power systems needed for tomorrow, and creating real net zero solutions for customers. We are powering change by changing power.

About Saputo

Saputo, one of the top ten dairy processors in the world, produces, markets, and distributes a wide array of dairy products of the utmost quality, including cheese, fluid milk, extended shelf-life milk and cream products, cultured products, and dairy ingredients. Saputo is a leading cheese manufacturer and fluid milk and cream processor in Canada, a leading dairy processor in Australia and the top dairy processor in Argentina. In the USA, Saputo ranks among the top three cheese producers and is one of the top producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products. In the United Kingdom, Saputo is the leading manufacturer of branded cheese and dairy spreads. In addition to its dairy portfolio, Saputo produces, markets, and distributes a range of dairy alternative cheeses and beverages. Saputo products are sold in several countries under market-leading brands, as well as private label brands. Saputo Inc. is a publicly traded company and its shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol SAP. Follow Saputos activities at Saputo.com or via Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About Schneider Electric

Schneiders purpose is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. We call this Life Is On. For more information on Schneider Electrics Sustainability Business, visit their website.

For more information, please contact:

Source: Capital Power Corporation
TORONTO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association (OECTA) has released the following statement from President Rene Jansen in de Wal, announcing that the Associations 45,000 Catholic-teacher members have ratified the agreement on central terms for a new contract.

This was a long and challenging round of negotiations, with more than 20 months of bargaining and 58 days at the bargaining table.

Throughout the process, Catholic teachers made it clear that they would do whatever it takes to stand up for students and publicly funded education, and we want to thank our Catholic teacher-members, as well as the students and families we serve, for their patience and support in reaching a deal.

Our goal in this round of negotiations  as always  was to reach the best possible deal to better support all students and teachers, to address critical issues identified by Catholic teachers, and improve the learning and working environment that students and teachers need to succeed.

The issues addressed, among others, include: better reporting and access to information to address increasing violence in schools; improving the resources and supports for student mental health and special education; and ensuring Catholic teachers in elementary and secondary schools receive the preparation and planning time they need, which has proven time and again to be critical in allowing teachers to best support student learning.

Outstanding items that could not be resolved by the parties at the bargaining table, including compensation, will be sent to Voluntary Binding Interest Arbitration. In arbitration, the Association and the other parties will make presentations on the items in question to an arbitrator, who will then issue a decision award.

The Memorandum of Settlement of Central Terms has been agreed to by the Government of Ontario; however, it still requires ratification from the Ontario Catholic School Trustees' Association (OCSTA). If ratified by OCSTA, the Association will then move to begin the process of negotiations between local OECTA units and Catholic school boards for the local terms of their respective collective agreements.

- 30 -

OECTA represents the 45,000 passionate and qualified teachers in Ontarios publicly funded English Catholic schools, from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Michelle Despault Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association 416-925-2493 x 509 [email protected]

Source: Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association
In a release issued under the same headline yesterday, March 26th, please note that the date of Vocodia's IPO completion should be February 26th, not February 22nd, as previously stated. The corrected release follows:

CHICAGO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vocodia Holdings Corp. (CBOE: VHAI) ("Vocodia" or the "Company"), an AI software company that builds practical AI functions, today announced that the Companys senior management team invested in Vocodias Initial Public Offering (IPO) that was completed on February 26, 2024.

Brian Podolak, Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Vocodia, invested $400,000 through the purchase of 94,117 units of the IPO. James Sposato, Co-Founder, Chief Technology Officer and Director, and Scott Silverman, Chief Financial Officer, also participated in the IPO. All units were purchased at the offering price of $4.25.

Mr. Podolak commented, "The team and I are proud to demonstrate our strong belief in Vocodia's future growth by participating alongside our investors in the Company's IPO."

Following the IPO, Mr. Podolak and Mr. Sposato each hold approximately 1.1 million shares of Vocodia's common stock and Mr. Silverman holds approximately 131,000 shares.

A true pioneer in the field, Vocodia's proprietary AI boasts dedicated phone switches capable of handling 20,000 calls simultaneously, eradicating hold times and propelling the client company into a new era of efficiency and customer satisfaction.

About Vocodia Holdings Corp.

Vocodia is an AI software company that build practical AI functions and makes them easily obtainable for businesses on cloud-based platform solutions at low costs and scalable to multiagent vast enterprise solutions. Vocodia is a conversational AI software developer and provider that offers scalable enterprise-level AI sales and customer service solutions which allow for AI sales representatives to reduce human labor costs and responsibilities while increasing the reach and efficacy of human-led, purposeful, agenda driven and conversational communications. Vocodia deliver its patent pending conversational AI software in the form of Digital Intelligent Sales Agents (the "DISAs"), which are built with AI software programmed to sound and feel human and to perform business tasks that require humans to converse with one another effectively, and thus to provide the best representation for each of its customers' businesses. For more information, please visit: www.vocodia.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as: "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "project," "estimate," "expect," strategy," "future," "likely," "may,", "should," "will" and similar references to future periods. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the risks and uncertainties more fully in the section captioned "Risk Factors" in the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 related to the public offering (SEC File No. File No. 333-269489) and other reports we file with the SEC. As a result of these matters, changes in facts, assumptions not being realized or other circumstances, our actual results may differ materially from the expected results discussed in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and undertake no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

Contact:Jeff RamsonPCG Advisory646-863-6893[email protected]

Source: Vocodia Holdings Corp.
TORONTO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dore Copper Mining Corp. (the "Company" or "Dore Copper") (TSXV: DCMC; OTCQX: DRCMF; FRA: DCM) reports that it has completed its first review of the Norhart mineralized zone, one of the priority gold targets identified on the recently acquired 65% interest in claims surrounding the Companys 100% owned Joe Mann property. SOQUEM holds the remaining 35% interest in the joint venture (the Joe Mann SOQUEM JV Property) (refer to news release dated January 22, 2024).

The Norhart gold occurrence is located approximately 1 kilometer north-northeast of the former Joe Mann mine and is easily accessible by road (Figure 1). It is comprised of five parallel east-west, sub-vertical quartz vein structures, each separated by approximately 50 to 150 meters, and traced over a strike length of more than 1 kilometer. Gold mineralization occurs in quartz shear and extensional veins with sulphides (trace to 10%) within an altered sequence of basaltic lava and felsic intrusions.

The Norhart zone was discovered in 1995 by SOQUEM. From 1995 to 2005, a total of 68 diamond drill holes totaling 18,569 meters were completed to test the mineralized structures of Norhart over a strike length of 1.2 kilometers to a depth of less than 400 meters. During this period, a total of five parallel auriferous structures known as the Norhart, 2800, 3100, 3500 and 3900 zones were identified. The best gold intercepts were encountered in the 2800 zone, located 50 meters north of the Norhart zone and 2,800 feet (853 meters) north of the Joe Mann shaft. The high-grade gold envelope (intercepts of > 8 g/t Au) has a lateral extension of approximately 200 meters and remains open below 250 meters vertical. Long sections of the 3100, 2800 and Norhart zones (from north to south) are shown in Figure 2.

Ernest Mast, President and CEO of Dore Copper, commented, The Norhart high-grade gold target merits additional exploration work. The easy access to the Norhart zones, similar mineralogy and gold grades to Joe Mann make Norhart a potential target into the Companys hub-and-spoke strategy for the Chibougamau mining camp. We plan on reviewing this target with SOQUEM to develop a drill program that will aim at expanding the mineralized zones and verifying historical intercepts.

Significant historical drill intercepts of the Norhart zones include:1

2800 Zone

65.85 g/t Au and 5.9 g/t Ag over 6.34 meters (H-04-579)

81.00 g/t Au and 1.4 g/t Ag over 1.2 meters (H-04-580)

26.30 g/t Au over 0.86 meter (H-04-588)

6.27 g/t Au over 1.8 meters (H-04-571)

9.33 g/t Au over 2.0 meters (H-04-573)

3100 Zone

14.85 g/t Au over 1.4 meters (H-04-586)

14.56 g/t Au over 1.09 meters (H-04-580)

5.55 g/t Au over 5.5 meters (H-572)

Norhart Zone:

24.65 g/t Au, 17.48 g/t Ag, and 0.79% Cu over 1.92 meters (H-04-578)

6.31 g/t Au over 4.75 meters (H-05-608)

30.08 g/t Au over 1.0 meter (H-569)

8.58 g/t Au over 2.95 meters (H-05-604)

57.65 g/t Au over 0.40 meter (H-550)

The Joe Mann Property

The Company has a controlling interest in a contiguous group of claims totaling 6,209.2 ha surrounding the former high-grade Joe Mann gold mine (Dore Copper has a 100% ownership in 3,179.6 ha and a 65% ownership in 3,029.6 ha, as part of the Joe Mann SOQUEM JV) (Figure 1). The property is located 60 kilometers south of the Companys Copper Rand mill and part of the southern Chibougamau mining camp where Northern Superior Resources Inc. and IAMGOLD Corporation have identified significant gold mineral resources.

The Joe Mann property is located in the eastern part of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt within the upper part of the Obatogamau Formation, within a major deformation corridor known as the Opawica-Guercheville shear zone. The Company has a 100% interest in the former Joe Mann mine, which produced 1.12 million ounces of gold at an average grade of 8.26 g/t from the 1950s to 2007.1 The deposit has an inferred mineral resource of 680,000 tonnes grading 6.78 g/t Au and 0.24% Cu, which was included in the Companys Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) of its hub-and-spoke operation announced on May 10, 2022.2

A number of gold occurrences and mineralized zones have been identified on the Joe Mann SOQUEM JV Property. No significant exploration work on the joint venture land has been carried out since the late 1990s, except for the Rohault and Norhart gold occurrences where the latest exploration activities took place in 2005.

Disclosure

Youssouf Ahmadou, M.Sc., P.Geo., Senior Exploration Geologist of the Company and a "Qualified Person" within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

The Qualified Person ("QP") for the Company has not verified the historical sample analytical data disclosed within this news release. While the Company has obtained all historic records including analytical data from the previous owners of the property and from various government databases, the Company has not independently verified the results of the historic sampling.

Figure 1. Joe Mann Property - Land Tenure Map and Main Gold Occurrences

Figure 2. Long Sections of the 3100, 2800 and Norhart Zones (from North to South)

Note: The logs indicate that the core was not sampled at (near) piercing point on Long Section 2800.

Engagement of Arrowhead

Dore Copper has retained Arrowhead Business and Investment Decisions, LLC (Arrowhead) to provide marketing services to the Company. Arrowhead has been engaged to elevate market and brand awareness for Dore Copper and to broaden the Company's reach within the investment community.

Arrowhead has been engaged by the Company for an initial period of six months starting March 15 (the Initial Term) and then shall be renewed automatically for successive six-month periods thereafter, unless terminated by the Company in accordance with the Agreement. Arrowhead will be paid a quarterly fee of US$25,000 during the Initial Term. Arrowhead is headquartered in New York City and was founded in 2008.

About Dore Copper Mining Corp.

Dore Copper Mining Corp. aims to be the next copper producer in Quebec with an initial production target of +50 Mlbs of copper equivalent annually by implementing a hub-and-spoke operation model with multiple high-grade copper-gold assets feeding its centralized Copper Rand mill.2 The Company has delivered its PEA in May 2022 and is proceeding with a feasibility study.

The Company has consolidated a large land package in the prolific Lac Dore/Chibougamau and Joe Mann mining camps that has historically produced 1.6 billion pounds of copper and 4.4 million ounces of gold.3 The land package includes 13 former producing mines, deposits and resource target areas within a 60-kilometre radius of the Company's Copper Rand Mill.

About SOQUEM

SOQUEM, a subsidiary of Investissement Quebec, is dedicated to promoting the exploration, discovery and development of mining properties in Quebec. SOQUEM also contributes to maintaining strong local economies. A proud partner and ambassador for the development of Quebecs mineral wealth, SOQUEM relies on innovation, research, and strategic minerals to be well-positioned for the future.

For further information, please contact:

Ernest Mast Laurie Gaborit President and Chief Executive Officer Vice President, Investor Relations Phone: (416) 792-2229 Phone: (416) 219-2049 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Visit: www.dorecopper.com Facebook: Dore Copper MiningLinkedIn: Dore Copper Mining Corp.Twitter: @DoreCopperInstagram: @DoreCopperMining

GM 62760: Ressources Meston Inc. Forage Printemps et Automne 2004, Propriete Joe Mann, Secteurs Norhart et Rohault, by Denis McNicholes, geo, dated April 8, 2005. Sources for historic production figures: Economic Geology, v. 107, pp. 963989 - Structural and Stratigraphic Controls on Magmatic, Volcanogenic, and Shear Zone-Hosted Mineralization in the Chapais-Chibougamau Mining Camp, Northeastern Abitibi, Canada by Francois Leclerc et al. (Lac Dore/Chibougamau mining camp) and NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Joe Mann Property dated January 11, 2016 by Geologica Groupe-Conseil Inc. for Jessie Ressources Inc. (Joe Mann mine). Technical report titled "Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Chibougamau Hub-and-Spoke Complex, Quebec, Canada" dated June 15, 2022, in accordance with National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The Technical Report was prepared by BBA Inc. with several consulting firms contributing to sections of the study, including SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd., SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. and WSP Inc.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this news release, including, without limitation, statements with respect to the timing and ability of the Company to receive necessary regulatory approvals, the Company's ability to meet its production target, the commencement, timing and completion of a feasibility study, and the plans, operations and prospects of the Company and its properties are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, actual exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, delays or inability to receive required regulatory approvals, health emergencies, pandemics and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events or results to differ materially from those anticipated. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available athttps://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1355a218-2b59-4101-88e9-2202cf029da5https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/43d175ab-feac-4d81-af33-d89dd40875a0

Figure 1. Joe Mann Property - Land Tenure Map and Main Gold Occurrences Figure 1. Joe Mann Property - Land Tenure Map and Main Gold Occurrences Figure 2. Long Sections of the 3100, 2800 and Norhart Zones (from North to South) Figure 2. Long Sections of the 3100, 2800 and Norhart Zones (from North to South)

Source: DORE COPPER MINING CORP
CHICAGO, IL, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NewMediaWire -- Epazz, Inc. (OTC Pink: EPAZ), a mission-critical provider of solid-state battery technology, drone technology, blockchain mobile apps and cloud-based business software solutions, has announced today that its subsidiary Galaxy Batteries, Inc., a trailblazer in solid-state battery technology, is proud to announce the opening of its new manufacturing site, a testament to the companys unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability.



The new facility is in Sharjah City, United Arab Emirates, and represents a significant milestone for Galaxy Batteries, Inc., as it continues to lead the charge in developing products for the drone and aerospace market.

Our new manufacturing facility is to manufacture our solid state battery for drones and eVTOLs, said Shaun Passley, Ph.D., CEO of Epazz, Inc.

For more information about Galaxy Batteries, Inc. and our sustainable initiatives, please visit https://www.galaxybatteries.com .

About Galaxy Batteries, Inc.: Galaxy Batteries, Inc. is a manufacturer of solid-state battery solutions.

About Epazz, Inc.

Epazz, Inc. is a mission-critical provider of Metaverse solutions, blockchain cryptocurrency mobile apps and cloud-based software. It is a company that specializes in providing customized cloud applications to corporate firms, higher-education institutions and the public sector. Epazz is developing Metaverse business solutions, enabling people to collaborate through VR in real time. Epazz is upgrading its business solutions to be fully integrated into the Metaverse, for which it will be manufacturing low-cost smart glasses.

Safe Harbor

Certain statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements as defined by the Safe Harbor statement in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by their use of forward-looking terms such as may, expect,

intend, estimate, anticipate, believe and continue (or negative variations thereof). Such forward-looking statements are subject to risk, uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those the statements imply. Investors should be aware that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results may differ materially. Epazz assumes no obligation, does not intend to update these forward-looking statements and has no duty to update or correct information prepared by third parties unaffiliated with Epazz.

Investors are encouraged to review Epazzs public filings on SEC.gov, including its unaudited and audited financial statements, its registration statement, Form 10-Ks and Form 10-Qs, which contain general business information about the companys operations, operations results and the risks associated with the company and its operations. Penny stocks need to be researched. Do your homework. Please review all our filings.

For more information, please contact the following:
RYE, N.Y., March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Board of Directors of The Gabelli Convertible and Income Securities Fund Inc. (NYSE: GCV) (the Fund) announced the appointment of Christina A. Peeney to the Board of the Fund effective February 13, 2024.

Ms. Peeney is an Adjunct Professor in the Business and Computer Science Department at Middlesex County College in Edison, New Jersey. She is also an analyst at Amabile Partners. She was previously an auditor at Ernst & Young LLP and a Senior Account Executive at Prudential Investments Retirement Services. She received a B.A. in English Literature from Rutgers University and an M.B.A. in Finance from the Gabelli School of Business at Fordham University.

Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund before investing. For more information regarding the Fund, call:

Laurissa Martire(914) 921-5399

About Gabelli Convertible and Income Securities Fund

The Gabelli Convertible and Income Securities Fund Inc. is a diversified, closed-end management investment company with $79 million in total net assets whose primary investment objective is to seek a high level of total return on its assets through a combination of current income and capital appreciation. The Fund is managed by Gabelli Funds, LLC, a subsidiary of GAMCO Investors, Inc. (OTCQX: GAMI).

Investor Relations Contact:Laurissa Martire(914) 921-5399[email protected]

NYSE: GCV

CUSIP  36240B109

Source: The Gabelli Convertible & Income Securities Fund Inc.
MATHESON, Ontario, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mayfair Gold Corp. (Mayfair or the Company) (TSX-V: MFG; OTCQB: MFGCF) today announced that the Companys Board of Directors has approved advancing the 100% controlled Fenn-Gib gold project in the Timmins region of Ontario to the pre-feasibility study phase. The Companys pre-feasibility study will build further on the metallurgical, geotechnical, hydrogeology, and environmental evaluations completed to date to develop a clearly defined project description in support of an environmental assessment. Mayfair has engaged AGP Mining Consultants (AGP) as lead engineers of a multi-disciplinary group (AGP Group) to deliver the pre-feasibility study.

Mayfairs president and CEO, Patrick Evans, commented: Initiation of the Fenn-Gib pre-feasibility study is a major milestone towards the potential development of the Fenn-Gib project. Since acquiring Fenn-Gib approximately three years ago, Mayfair has increased the mineral resource by more than 70 percent and ongoing drilling continues to deliver encouraging results that are expected to further grow the resource. In 2023, Mayfair completed pre-feasibility level metallurgical, geotechnical, and hydrogeology studies to de-risk the project ahead of the pre-feasibility study. Three years of baseline environmental studies have also confirmed that there are no species at risk within the Fenn-Gib project area. By following a rigorous and disciplined pre-feasibility approach, we expect the viability of the Fenn-Gib project will be enhanced.

At the start of the pre-feasibility study, the AGP Group will undertake tradeoff studies to define the optimal parameters of the project. The tradeoff studies are expected to be completed in Q2 2024, following which guidance will be provided for the completion of the pre-feasibility study.

Mayfair Gold today also announced the resignation of Mr. Sean Pi as a director of the Company. Mr. Pi, a partner at Heeney Capital, is a co-founder of Mayfair and has served as a director since the formation of the Company in 2019. Mr. Harry Pokrandt, chairman of Mayfair, commented: On behalf of the Board of Mayfair, I thank Mr. Pi for his service as a director. His contribution to the formation of the Company and subsequent acquisition of the Fenn-Gib project contributed significantly to the success of Mayfair Gold. We wish Mr. Pi every success in his future endeavors.

About MayfairMayfair Gold is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on advancing the 100% controlled Fenn-Gib gold project in the Timmins region of Northern Ontario. The Fenn-Gib gold deposit is Mayfairs flagship asset and currently hosts an updated NI 43-101 resource estimate with an effective date of April 6, 2023 with a total Indicated Resource of 113.69M tonnes containing 3.38M ounces at a grade of 0.93 g/t Au and an Inferred Resource of 5.72M tonnes containing 0.16M ounces at a grade of 0.85 g/t Au at a 0.40 g/t Au cut-off grade (Source: NI 43-101 Technical Report on Fenn-Gib Project, Ontario, Canada, prepared by Tim Maunula, P. Geo., of T. Maunula & Associates Consulting Inc., dated April 6, 2023). Mr. Maunula is deemed a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101. The Fenn-Gib deposit has a strike length of over 1.5km with widths ranging over 500m. The gold mineralized zones remain open at depth and along strike to the east and west. Recently completed metallurgical tests confirm that the Fenn-Gib deposit can deliver robust gold recoveries of up to 94%.

For further information contact:

Patrick Evans, President and CEO Phone: (480) 747-3032Email: [email protected] Web: www.mayfairgold.ca

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that relate to Mayfairs current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result", "are expected to", "expects", "will continue", "is anticipated", "anticipates", "believes", "estimated", "intends", "plans", "forecast", "projection", "strategy", "objective" and "outlook") are not historical facts and may be forward-looking statements and may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release.

Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Mayfairs control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward- looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the impact and progression of the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors. Mayfair undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Mayfair to predict all of them, or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this 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.

Source: Mayfair Gold Corp.
London, UK, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Memechao, the innovative cryptocurrency platform, is poised to revolutionize the world of meme coins and blockchain technology. With a unique blend of artificial intelligence, meme culture, and creator backing, Memechao offers users an engaging and dynamic ecosystem unlike anything seen before.

At the heart of Memechao's mission is the democratization of meme coin investing. By partnering with top tier influencers and leveraging AI technology, Memechao empowers users to participate in presales of influencer-backed meme tokens before they become available to the wider market. Key features of Memechao will include:

AI-generated characters that serve as interactive mascots for the project.

Governance features that allow token holders to vote on which influencers they want to see represented

as meme tokens.

Seamless payment options accepting various cryptocurrencies and credit/debit cards.

With its cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships, Memechao is positioned to disrupt the cryptocurrency landscape and provide a safe and innovative environment for meme coin backing. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements from Memechao as it continues to push the boundaries of meme coin investing. Website: www.memechao.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/Memechaotoken Telegram: https://t.me/memchaotoken.

Disclaimer:The information provided in this release is not investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is recommended that you practice due diligence (including consultation with a professional financial advisor) before investing or trading securities and cryptocurrency.

Anthony Paulo Memechao [email protected]

Source: Memechao
New Zealand Regulator Warns Against Crypto Exchange Clone

New Zealands Financial Markets Authority (FMA) has flagged an unlicensed crypto exchange clone of BTCSWE. The impersonator has been reportedly contacting customers, promising to retrieve funds lost in previous unsuccessful investments.

The countrys financial regulator added two fake entities to its warning list on Wednesday  BTCSWE and Grandeur Capital Pro.

BTCSWE cryptocurrency exchange is a legit company licensed under the FMA. The regulators have contacted the owners of the firm, who confirmed that they have been impersonated as part of a wider recovery scam.

According to the FMAs cautionary note, the clone crypto exchange supplied fabricated documents to convince victims of this individuals identity. The victims were then asked to pay a contract fee over a period of months to recover their lost funds.

Further, the impersonators have instructed victims to install anydesk software, which provides platform-independent remote access to personal computers and other devices.

This has resulted in the victim losing a significant amount of money, as the software gave the scammer access to different passwords.

The FMA has warned customers who have already given permission to install remote access software on their device to immediately seek help from an IT professional.

The regulator has also flagged fake forex, stock and crypto trading platform  Grandeur Capital Pro, with a New Zealand address.

We do not think Grandeur Capital is located at or operated from that address or from any address in New Zealand, the FMA warning read. We have reasonable grounds to believe that there is false registration/licensing information on their website.

Rising Tide of Crypto in New Zealand Opens to More Scams



According to insights from Statista, NZs revenue in crypto market is projected to reach $102.2 million in 2024, with more number of Kiwis expected to adopt cryptos in the next few years.

As a result, last year, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand noted that it is increasing surveillance of the crypto sector.

FMA has issued several such warning before against Crypto Fraudsters and Impersonators. The watchdog previously flagged Krypto Security and Bay Exchange, which have been contacting citizens to offer access to cryptocurrency services. However, none of these companies are regulated by the FMA.

The country has been cautions on crypto throughout. the Finance and Expenditure Committee of the New Zealand House of Representatives released a comprehensive report, highlighting the hazards associated with integrating crypto into the countrys payment system.

Last month, NZs central bank governor, Adrian Orr, criticized digital currencies as misnomers and oxymorons, raising concerns about their stability, particularly stablecoins.
Washington, D.C., March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The New Civil Liberties Alliance has petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for a writ of certiorari in Changizi, et al. v. HHS, a lawsuit combating the governments unconstitutional assault on freedom of speech. NCLAs petition asks the Court to resolve a circuit split between the Fifth and Sixth Circuits on what plaintiffs must show to satisfy Article III standing in censorship cases against the government. Officials in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have violated the First Amendment by directing social media companies to censor viewpoints that conflict with HHSs Covid-19 messaging. The petition urges the Court to overturn the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit ruling that NCLA clients Mark Changizi, Michael Senger, and Daniel Kotzin lacked standing to challenge the censorship regime that silenced them.

Changizi, Senger, and Kotzin were active Twitter users suspended after building large followings due to their reasoned criticism of Covid-19 restrictions. Federal officials in HHS, the White House, and elsewhere told social media companies what and whom to censor, making the government responsible for suspensions and de-platforming of Petitioners accounts. Discovery in NCLAs Murthy v. Missouri case heard by the Supreme Court last week shows the government browbeat social media companies into censoring Covid-19 views of which the government did not approve. The Changizi district court did not allow any discovery before dismissing the case.

The Sixth Circuit wrongly affirmed the district courts motion to dismiss the Changizi suit, determining NCLAs clients lacked standing to bring their claims in court. This dismissal rests on erroneous interpretations of the governing legal standards. The Sixth Circuits opinion sets a standard conflicting with clearly established, governing precedent, and it would prevent many litigants with legitimate legal claims against surreptitious federal censorship from obtaining relief. The Sixth Circuit also ignored discovery material brought to light in Murthy v. Missouri that corroborates the plausibility of NCLAs claims against the government in the Changizi case.

The Supreme Court will soon decide whether to uphold the Fifth Circuits preliminary injunction in Murthy v. Missouri that would block officials at the White House and several federal agencies from abridging, significantly encouraging, or coercing social media platforms to censor constitutionally protected speech. In Murthy, the Fifth Circuit determined that social media users facing similar censorship to that suffered by the Changizi plaintiffs have standing to pursue the same First Amendment claims against many of the same officials.

The Sixth Circuit partially based its decision to deny standing in Changizi on a glaring factual error. It claimed that the constitutional violations in Murthy occurred on a more comprehensive scale rather than with respect to discrete individual plaintiffs. In fact, the Fifth Circuit did address censorship against five discrete individual plaintiffs in Murthy, finding they each had standing to sue. The Supreme Court should resolve the resulting circuit split on this standing issue in the First Amendment context, at least holding NCLAs Changizi cert petition until it issues a decision in Murthy. Assuming the Court upholds standing for even one individual plaintiff in Murthy, it should grant this cert petition, vacate the Sixth Circuits decision, and remand the case for further proceedings.NCLA released the following statements:

The Changizi allegations regarding government-induced social media censorship are nearly identical to those made in Murthy v. Missouri. If the individual plaintiffs in Murthy have standing to sue, then so do Changizi, Senger, and Kotzin. And they are entitled to discovery on government officials non-public communications encouraging Twitter to censor them.Sheng Li, Litigation Counsel, NCLA

This case was filed prior to Murthy and the allegations clearly demonstrated standing if the proper inferences are provided to the Plaintiffs as the law requires. Plaintiffs should not be shut out of court simply because they dont yet have the full story of when and how the Government is censoring their speech. John Vecchione, Senior Litigation Counsel, NCLA

For more information visit the case page here and watch the case video here.

ABOUT NCLA

NCLA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit civil rights group founded by prominent legal scholar Philip Hamburger to protect constitutional freedoms from violations by the Administrative State. NCLAs public-interest litigation and other pro bono advocacy strive to tame the unlawful power of state and federal agencies and to foster a new civil liberties movement that will help restore Americans fundamental rights.

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Ruslan Moldovanov New Civil Liberties Alliance 202-869-5237 [email protected]

Source: New Civil Liberties Alliance


27 March 2024 - Frankfurt and Zurich - A leading white-label issuer of crypto ETPs, Issuance.Swiss AG, is officially listing the CF Momentum crypto ETN (ISIN : CH1263519394 | WKN: A3G5R2 | Kurzel: CFMM ) and the CF crypto Web 3.0 ETN (ISIN : CH1263519386 | WKN: A3G5R3 | Kurzel: CFB3: ) on the official market of Deutsche Borses Xetra electronic venue on Wednesday March 27th 2024. This is the first of what is expected to be many launches on Deutsche Boerse following its successful listing on SIX Exchange in Germany. Currently, the Swiss issuer has 5 ETP admitted to trading and is considering another 5 in the next 6 months.



CFMM - a multi-coin index ETN, is designed to provide investors with diversified and varied exposure using leading crypto projects. Its strategy combines price and on-chain momentum, making it a pioneering product in this asset class.

CFB3 - a multi-coin index ETN, is designed to capture the essence of the innovative WEB 3 era, the next evolution of the internet. The ETN provides comprehensive exposure to the diverse facets of Wbe 3.0 innovation including smart contract platfroms, scaling solutions and data management.

Bruce Jackson, Head of Digital Assets at APEX says: Apex has been working with Issuance.Swiss AG since 2023 and views the increasing amount of crypto ETPs being listed in Europe as an extremely positive development for the market. As such it was a natural decision for us to support the issuer participate on one of Europes largest exchanges. We are delighted to continue this effort in making crypto exposure in the form of a proven and test vehicle, ETN more accessible to the investors.



Pavel Izmaylov, Director, part of digital assets working group at APEX, says: Our products have been available in Switzerland since last year thanks to all our service providers and clients that made it possible. The listing on Xetra strengthens our new position in Germany but also opens up institutional-grade crypto products to the wider European and international markets. We look forward to bringing more novel asset classes to more demanding clients strategies. Cryptocurrency exposure is now ever easier to access.

This is not Issuance.Swisss first foray into regulated markets which complements an already successful accolade of listings on the Swiss stock exchange including the first institutional-grade staking crypto earlier this month. According to management, Issuance.Swiss led by a veteran crypto ETP, Laurent Kssis anticipates further dual listings of crypto ETNs in the coming month. In an otherwise unregulated crypto market, Issuance.Swiss AG powered by APEX group continues to bring more transparency, protection, and integrity to investors by listing their fully-collateralised crypto ETNs on regulated stock exchanges.

About Issuance.Swiss AG

Issuance.Swiss AG is a dedicated SPV fully customised to admit financial products on regulated European stock markets and offer a plug-and-play solution to bring vanilla and complex digital assets strategies to the regulated market wrapped and in the form of a publicly listed ETP. Incorporated in Zug Switzerland and through its standalone set up, the SPV is able to list client strategies from European and US clients who currently have compliance constraints in managing digital assets. In return the client can enjoy a whitelabel revenue solution (net of administrative costs) as the product is fully scalable through its Asset under Management proposition (creation redemption process) and is estimated at best with a successful admission to the stock exchange within 8 weeks from engagement. The SPV is fully equipped and onboarded with key service providers and allows a quick time to market while the SPV takes control of all the operational burden.



About Apex Group

Apex Group Ltd., established in Bermuda in 2003, is a global financial services provider.

With over 13,000 employees globally, Apex Group provides services into 50 jurisdictions delivering an expansive range of services to asset managers, financial institutions, private clients, and family offices.



The Group has continually improved and evolved its capabilities to offer a single-source solution through establishing the broadest range of services in the industry; including fund raising solutions, fund administration, digital onboarding and bank accounts, depositary, custody, super ManCo, corporate services and a pioneering ESG Ratings and Advisory solution. Apex Groups purpose is to be more than just a financial services provider and is committed to driving positive change to address three core areas; the Environment and Climate Change, Womens Empowerment and Economic Independence, Education and Social Mobility.

www.apexgroup.com



For more information, please email [email protected] or call +41 44 551 0052

Disclaimer

This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for securities of Issuance.Swiss AG. Neither this document nor anything contained herein shall form the basis of, or be relied upon in connection with, any offer or commitment whatsoever in any jurisdiction. This document and the information contained herein are not for distribution in or into (directly or indirectly) the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which the distribution or release would be unlawful. This document does not constitute an offer of securities to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase in or into the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan. The securities of Issuance.Swiss AG to which these materials relate have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. There will not be a public offering of securities in the United States. This document is only being distributed to and is only directed at: (i) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the "Order"); or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"); or (iv) persons who fall within Article 43(2) of the Order, including existing members and creditors of the Company or (v) any other persons to whom this document can be lawfully distributed in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. The Securities are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. In any EEA Member State (other than the France, Germany, Italy, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Lichtenstein) that has implemented the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, together with any applicable implementing measures in any Member State, the "Prospectus Regulation") this communication is only addressed to and is only directed at qualified investors in that Member State within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation. Exclusively for potential investors in France, Germany, Italy, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Liechtenstein the 2023 Base Prospectus (EU) is made available on the Issuers website under www.issuance.swiss . The approval of the 2023 Base Prospectus (EU) should not be understood as an endorsement by the FMA of the securities offered or admitted to trading on a regulated market. Eligible potential investors should read the 2023 Base Prospectus (EU) and the relevant Final Terms before making an investment decision in order to understand the potential risks associated with the decision to invest in the securities.

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Dallas, TX, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Let Dickeys Barbecue Pit do the cooking this Easter with their delicious, hickory-smoked barbecue options.

On Sunday, March 31st, whether you're feeding a group big or small, the Texas-style barbecue brand has you covered. Easter is the perfect time to gather with your family and friends to enjoy some Legit. Texas. Barbecue. in store, or from the comfort of your own home. Guests can explore their perfect BBQ meal options, to ensure a memorable and happy Easter on Dickeys.com or by calling their catering experts at 866-BARBECUE.

Dont forget, the worlds largest barbecue brand continues to offer their fan-favorite special Kids Eat Free Sunday* where guests 12 years and under receive a free Kids Meal when an adult orders $12 or more in-store and online using the code: KEFOLO.

Easter is a special holiday that we love celebrating at Dickeys, said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. We want our guests to enjoy their Easter celebrations by focusing on the importance of the holiday. So let us take over the cooking and give you a slow-smoked, Texas-style meal you wont forget.

*One Kids Meal per check with a minimum $12 purchase. Available at participating Dickeys locations only. Kids 12 and under. Not valid with any other coupons, offers, discounts or promotions

To learn more, follow Dickeys Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickeys Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

About Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the worlds largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by the Dickey family. For the past 80 years, Dickeys Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests in 44 states Legit. Texas. Barbecue.  At Dickeys, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickeys proudly believes theres no shortcut to true barbecue and its why our name isnt BBQ. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers eight slow-smoked meats and 12 wholesome sides with 'No B.S. (Bad Stuff)' included. Dickeys Barbecue has 550 locations across the United States and eight other countries.

Dickeys was named to Newsweeks 2022 Americas Favorite Restaurant Chains list and USA Today 2021 readers choice awards. Dickeys won first place on Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list, been named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur and named to Hospitality Technologys Industry Heroes list. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was named among the countrys 50 most influential women in foodservice in Nations Restaurant News, was recognized by Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list and honored by Dallas Business Journal. Dickey's Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Dallas Morning News, The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine and QSR Magazine. Dickeys Barbecue is part of Dickeys Restaurant Brands which has more than 700 restaurants nationwide including brands Wing Boss, Trailer Birds, Big Deal Burger and bbqathome.com. DRB is led by CEO Roland Dickey Jr. For more information, visit www.dickeys.com.

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Shannon Santos Dickey's Barbecue Pit [email protected]

Source: Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants
Press release

Paris, 27 March 2024

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Orange intends to issue a new series of Euro-denominated hybrid notes and to launch a tender offer on some of its outstanding hybrid notes

Orange S.A. (the Company) is today announcing its intention to issue Euro denominated undated deeply subordinated fixed to reset rate notes with a first call date as of 15 December 2030 (the New Notes).

The pricing of the New Notes is expected to be announced later today. The New Notes are intended to be admitted to trading on Euronext Paris. It is also expected that the rating agencies will assign the New Notes a rating of BBB-/Baa3/BBB- (S&P / Moody's / Fitch) and an equity content of 50%.

The Company is also launching a tender offer (the Tender Offer) to repurchase:

its 1 billion Undated 6 Year Non-Call Deeply Subordinated Fixed to Reset Rate Notes with first reset date on 15 April 2025 and admitted to trading on Euronext Paris (ISIN FR0013413887) (of which 1 billion is currently outstanding) (the NC 2025 Existing Notes ); and

); and its 1.25 billion Undated 12 Year Non-Call Deeply Subordinated Fixed to Reset Rate Notes with first reset date on 1st October 2026 and admitted to trading on Euronext Paris (ISIN XS1115498260) (of which 1.25 billion is currently outstanding) (the NC 2026 Existing Notes and, together with the NC 2025 Existing Notes, the Existing Notes).,

up to a maximum acceptance amount which is expected to be equal to the amount of the New Notes and, with respect to each series of Existing Notes, up to a specific maximum acceptance amount, to be announced by the Company following the pricing of the New Notes.

The purpose of the Tender Offer and the planned issuance of New Notes is, amongst other things, to proactively manage the Company's hybrid portfolio. The Tender Offer also provides qualifying holders with the opportunity to sell their Existing Notes ahead of their respective upcoming first reset date and to apply for priority in the allocation of the New Notes.

The Tender Offer will expire at 5:00 pm, Paris time, on 4 April 2024 and the results will be announced on 5 April 2024 (subject to change as a result of any extension, withdrawal, termination, re-opening or amendment of the Tender Offer).

Disclaimer

This announcement does not constitute an invitation to participate in the Tender Offer or the issuance of New Notes in or from any jurisdiction in or from which, or to or from any person to or from whom, it is unlawful to make such invitation under applicable securities laws. The distribution of this announcement in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons into whose possession this announcement comes are required to inform themselves about, and to observe, any such restrictions.

Tenders of Notes for purchase pursuant to the Tender Offer will not be accepted from qualifying holders in any circumstances in which such offer or solicitation is unlawful. The Company does not make any recommendation as to whether or not qualifying holders should participate in the Tender Offer.

Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under, or an exemption from the registration requirements of, the Securities Act. The New Notes have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act or the securities laws of any state or other jurisdiction 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, any U.S. Person.

United States

This Tender Offer is not being made and will not be made directly or indirectly in or into, or by use of the mails of, or by any means or instrumentality (including, without limitation, facsimile transmission, telex, telephone, email and other forms of electronic transmission) of interstate or foreign commerce of, or any facility of a national securities exchange of, the United States or to U.S. Persons as defined in Regulation S of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act) (each a U.S. Person) and the Notes may not be tendered in the Tender Offer by any such use, means, instrumentality or facility from or within the United States, by persons located or resident in the United States of America (U.S. holders within the meaning of Rule 800(h) under the Securities Act). Accordingly, any documents or materials related to this Tender Offer are not being, and must not be, directly or indirectly, mailed or otherwise transmitted, distributed or forwarded (including, without limitation, by custodians, nominees or trustees) in or into the United States or to any such person. Any purported tender instruction in response to this Tender Offer resulting directly or indirectly from a violation of these restrictions will be invalid, and tender instructions made by a person located or resident in the United States of America or any agent, fiduciary or other intermediary acting on a non-discretionary basis for a principal giving instructions from within the United States will not be accepted.

For the purposes of the above paragraphs, United States means the United States of America, its territories and possessions (including Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Wake Island and the Northern Mariana Islands), any state of the United States of America and the District of Columbia.

About Orange

Orange is one of the worlds leading telecommunications operators with revenues of 44.1 billion euros in 2023 and 137,000 employees worldwide at 31 December 2023, including 73,000 employees in France. The Group has a total customer base of 298 million customers worldwide at 31 December 2023, including 254 million mobile customers and 25 million fixed broadband customers. The Group is present in 26 countries. Orange is also a leading provider of global IT and telecommunication services to multinational companies under the brand Orange Business. In February 2023, the Group presented its strategic plan "Lead the Future", built on a new business model and guided by responsibility and efficiency. "Lead the Future" capitalizes on network excellence to reinforce Orange's leadership in service quality.

Orange is listed on Euronext Paris (symbol ORA) and on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol ORAN).

For more information on the internet and on your mobile: www.orange.com, www.orange-business.com and the Orange News app or to follow us on Twitter: @orangegrouppr.

Orange and any other Orange product or service names included in this material are trademarks of Orange or Orange Brand Services Limited.

Press contacts:

Caroline Cellier ; 06 07 25 00 06  [email protected]

Tom Wright ; 06 78 91 35 11 - [email protected]

CAUTION: NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES

This press release, of a purely informative nature, is not and cannot in any way be construed as an offering to sell any securities, or as a solicitation of any offer to buy securities, in any jurisdiction, including the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom. The securities mentioned in this press release have not been and will not be registered pursuant to the US Securities Act of 1933, as modified. They cannot be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. No public offer of these securities has been or will be made in the United States or elsewhere.

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Atlanta, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In recognition of Parkinsons Awareness Month, RaceTrac is once again proud to partner with The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) by offering Coffee For A Cause week beginning Sunday, April 14, to help raise money and awareness for Parkinsons research. Since 2011, RaceTrac has raised more than $8 million to support Parkinsons research through its Coffee For A Cause week and annual Run For Research 5K, scheduled for Saturday, September 14, 2024.

All proceeds raised during RaceTracs Coffee For A Cause week, between April 14 and April 20, will be donated directly to the Foundation. Additionally, RaceTrac guests will have the option to choose between adding one dollar to their in-store purchases or selecting a special one-dollar candy bar available at the register to support the cause throughout the month of April.

RaceTrac's partnership with The Michael J. Fox Foundation is very personal for my family and we are so proud of the outpouring of support our guests have provided over the years, including raising more than $700,000 during Coffee For A Cause last year, said Melanie Isbill, chief brand officer at RaceTrac and member of MJFFs board of directors since March 2021. The foundation has made significant advances in the past year, and I am humbled by RaceTracs unwavering presence in this fight as we work together to fund research towards advances in treatments and a cure in support of patients and their families.

Last April, MJFF researchers discovered a biomarker breakthrough, opening a new chapter for better therapies. The test can detect a key pathology of Parkinsons disease in spinal fluid not only of people diagnosed with Parkinsons, but also in individuals who have not yet shown clinical symptoms of the disease.

Approximately 90,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with the neurodegenerative disorder every year, adding to a list of over one million Americans currently living with the disease, including Isbills father, RaceTrac executive chairman and current MJFF Patient Council member Carl Bolch Jr. Her grandfather, RaceTrac founder Carl Bolch Sr., also lived with Parkinsons.

RUN FOR RESEARCH In addition to Parkinsons Awareness Month, RaceTracs 11th annual Run For Research 5K is returning to Truist Park in Atlanta on Saturday, September 14, 2024. All proceeds, including 100 percent of registration fees, go directly to MJFFs high-impact research programs. Runners, walkers, strollers and supporters are invited to sign up at runsignup.com/RaceTrac5K.

For information on the amazing research currently underway and for additional resources and support for those living with Parkinsons disease, visit michaeljfox.org.

Learn more about RaceTrac by visiting RaceTrac.com and stay connected on social via Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About RaceTracHeadquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, family-owned RaceTrac has been serving guests since 1934 and now operates over 580 convenience store locations in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Indiana, South Carolina and Tennessee. While operating under its mission of making peoples lives simpler and more enjoyable, RaceTrac stores offer guests an affordable one-stop-shop featuring a wide selection of food and beverage favorites, including Swirl World frozen desserts, freshly ground, freshly brewed coffee and competitively priced fuel.

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Source: Racetrac, Inc.
HOUSTON, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bill Potter, founder of Thrive Advisors, specialists in helping SaaS startups achieve a nine-figure exit strategy, today announced that he has finalized the acquisition of DataCapable, a SaaS company that specializes in situational awareness and real-time threat and outage mapping. Potter plans to expand DataCapables services to the utilities and telecommunications markets, offering outage event mapping, threat detection, and customer alert services.

DataCapable has created a platform that uses SaaS AI technology to capture, automate, and distribute actionable information about critical events in real-time, said Potter. Telecomm and power companies desperately need reliable situational awareness, threat management data, and real-time outage mapping during an emergency. The public also needs a reliable source of information to keep them informed and prevent panic. DataCapable fulfills a unique role and has proven invaluable to public service agencies and utility customers. We plan to leverage the technology to help service customers reduce response time and improve customer satisfaction.

DataCapable is an industry leader in situational awareness and tracking high-impact events such as power outages, fires, and floods, giving businesses, utilities, government agencies, and the public actionable information during emergencies. Following Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the founders of DataCapable recognized the value of converting real-time data streams, such as social media posts, into actionable intelligence. With the help of artificial intelligence, DataCapable provides customers with the data needed to make critical decisions, such as managing responses to storms, monitoring and deploying wildfire crews, and keeping officials informed during active shooter events. DataCapables Community Portal also informs the community about response and recovery, including real-time interactive mapping.

Bills acquisition will help DataCapable improve our operations and expand our market reach, said Pete DiSalvo, CEO and co-founder of DataCapable. Bill has a proven track record of helping SaaS companies overcome obstacles and achieve rapid growth. With his guidance, we anticipate expanding our situational awareness offering, improving our AI capabilities, and contributing to public safety.

Bill Potter is an entrepreneur and investor who specializes in working with technology startup companies. Before launching Thrive Advisors, Potter founded MessageBroadcast, which supports omnichannel communications for intelligent customer engagement. He sold MessageBroadcast for $260 million before launching Thrive Advisors, consultants specializing in helping SaaS companies overcome obstacles to success. Thrive Advisors helps startup companies with growth strategies, product development, building sales momentum, scaling infrastructure, and helping businesses thrive, including orchestrating profitable exit strategies.

About Thrive Advisors

Thrive Advisors specializes in helping SaaS and technology companies overcome barriers to success and position themselves for a profitable exit. Bill Potter, founder of Thrive Advisors, knows that startups hit plateaus where growth halts due to lack of funds, market shifts, resource allocation, or other issues. Thrive Advisors understands the challenges of scaling sales, marketing, and operations and empowers clients to maximize growth and realize their vision for accelerated success and a lucrative exit.

For more information, visit http://thriveadvisors.com.

About DataCapable

DataCapable is a B2B SaaS company that delivers situational awareness to businesses, organizations, governments, and other teams when it matters most. Powered by patented real-time AI and backed by expert analysts, the DataCapable Platform pinpoints high-impact events and provides critical decision-making intelligence as events unfold  empowering DataCapables Partners to respond quickly and confidently.

For more information, visit http://datacapable.com.

Contact:Clay VaughnThrive Advisors[email protected]

Source: Thrive Advisors
DARIEN, Ga., March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Southeastern Bank and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (FHLBank Atlanta) announced today that a $270,000 grant has been awarded to Golden Isles Veterans Village, a development of 30 tiny homes and a community center for homeless veterans in Brunswick, Georgia.

The funds from FHLBank Atlantas Multifamily Housing Bridge Fund (Bridge Fund) were awarded to Golden Isles Veterans Village through Southeastern Bank, which is a member of FHLBank Atlanta. Once complete, this transitional community will provide low-cost rental housing for homeless veterans as well as physical and mental health services, job training, and assistance to determine benefits and entitlements.

Southeastern Bank has a long history of serving our communities beyond our financial products and services, said Jay Torbert, CEO of Southeastern Bank. Partnering with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta enables us to support housing needs in our area and deliver grants for initiatives like the Golden Isles Veterans Village.

FHLBank Atlanta introduced the Bridge Fund in 2023 to allocate a total of $8 million for multifamily affordable housing projects that are experiencing delays due to rising construction costs. Golden Isles Veterans Village is among 28 projects that received funding from FHLBank Atlanta through member banks like Southeastern Bank, which applied for Bridge Fund grants to support their communities.

We introduced the Bridge Fund with the goal of helping projects like the Golden Isles Veterans Village reach the finish line and make more affordable housing available, said Tomeka Strickland, Senior Vice President and Director of Community Investment Services for FHLBank Atlanta. We are proud of how Southeastern Bank leveraged the Bridge Fund and partnered with Golden Isles Veterans Village to make a positive impact on the lives of local veterans.

The Golden Isles Veterans Village is located at 1403 G Street, Brunswick, Georgia and is scheduled to open late 2024.

About Southeastern BankSoutheastern Bank, established in 1888, has a long history of serving its customers and communities. From deposit accounts and loans to investments and more, Southeastern Bank has the financial products you need most. Southeastern Bank has 11 locations throughout coastal Georgia and northeast Florida. Our online and mobile banking extends our reach and allows customers the opportunity to bank on their time 24/7. However, we have not forgotten that customer service, whether in person or via the phone, is the most important aspect of community banking. Southeastern Bank is a subsidiary of Southeastern Banking Corporation, a bank holding company headquartered in Darien, Georgia.

About Federal Home Loan Bank of AtlantaFHLBank Atlanta offers competitively-priced financing, community development grants, and other banking services to help member financial institutions make affordable home mortgages and provide economic development credit to neighborhoods and communities. The Bank's members are commercial banks, credit unions, savings institutions, community development financial institutions, and insurance companies located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. FHLBank Atlanta is one of 11 district banks in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Since 1990, the FHLBanks have awarded approximately $7.6 billion in Affordable Housing Program funds, assisting more than one million households.

CONTACT: Sheryl TouchtonFederal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta[email protected]404.716.4296

Source: Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
London, UK, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a bold move that positions the company at the forefront of the cryptocurrency staking sector, StakingFarm has unveiled its strategy to lead the market in 2024 with the highest Annual Percentage Yield (APY) offerings. This initiative underscores the platform's dedication to providing unparalleled value to its users, reinforcing its status as the go-to staking platform for those seeking substantial passive income from their digital assets.

As StakingFarm prepares to lead the crypto staking industry in 2024, the company is doubling down on its efforts to ensure that its infrastructure can support the anticipated influx of new users looking to take advantage of the highest APYs offered. This preparation includes scaling its platforms capacity, enhancing its customer service capabilities, and expanding its educational outreach to demystify crypto staking for a broader audience.

Strategic Partnerships and Market ExpansionUnderstanding the importance of strategic collaborations in achieving its ambitious goals, StakingFarm seeks partnerships with leading blockchain projects, financial institutions, and technology providers. These partnerships are aimed at expanding the range of staking options available on the platform, as well as integrating new features that enhance user experience and investment outcomes.

Commitment to Transparency and Ethical PracticesIn a market where transparency and integrity are paramount, StakingFarm is setting a high standard. The platform operates with full transparency, providing users with clear, up-to-date information about staking options, potential returns, and the overall health of their investments. Moreover, StakingFarm is committed to ethical practices, ensuring that its operations contribute positively to the broader crypto ecosystem and the financial well-being of its users.

A Call to Action for Prospective InvestorsWith the crypto markets potential for significant returns and the increasing interest in passive income streams, StakingFarms offering comes at a reasonable time. Prospective investors are encouraged to explore the platforms diverse staking packages and leverage StakingFarms expertise to navigate the complexities of the crypto market.

CEO Klajdi Toci extends a personal invitation: Join us at StakingFarm, where were not just chasing profits; were building a community of informed, empowered investors. Together, we can harness the power of crypto to create a more prosperous future for all.

As 2024 approaches, StakingFarm is well-positioned to become a pivotal force in the crypto-straking industry. With its visionary leadership, innovative staking platform, and unwavering commitment to its users, StakingFarm is on track to redefine what it means to earn passive income in the digital age.

StakingFarm's mission is deeply rooted in the belief in democratizing finance, offering a wide selection of staking packages that empower individuals across all economic spectrums to engage in the crypto economy. This approach enables users to earn passive income through an intuitive and advanced staking platform, making financial growth accessible to everyone.

ETH Trial Plan: Ideal for beginners with a $50 investment, offering $1.00 daily rewards, capital return, and no referral obligations.

Solana Plan: A $100 investment for a 2-day Solana staking venture, yielding $2.00 daily rewards plus a $5 referral bonus.

Polygon Plan: A 7-day commitment with a $700 investment, providing $7.00 daily rewards and a $35 referral bonus.

Cardano Plan: For 15 days, a $1,500 investment brings $16.50 daily rewards and a $75 referral bonus.

Axelar Plan: A $3,000 investment in a 15-day Axelar staking plan, accruing $36.00 daily rewards and a $150 referral bonus.

Ethereum Plan: The premium 30-day plan requires a $6,000 investment, offering $78.00 daily rewards and a $300 referral bonus.

Join StakingFarm TodayFor those ready to take their crypto investments to the next level and benefit from the highest APY yields in the market, visit StakingFarms website to learn more and sign up. Discover how StakingFarm can help you achieve your financial goals through crypto staking.

About StakingFarmStakingFarm is at the forefront of the crypto staking industry, offering unparalleled APY returns on a wide range of digital assets. Through a combination of cutting-edge technology, strategic market insights, and a commitment to user empowerment, StakingFarm provides a secure, transparent, and profitable platform for generating passive income. Led by CEO Klajdi Toci, StakingFarm is dedicated to reshaping the financial landscape and making crypto staking an integral part of investors portfolios worldwide.

For more information, visit StakingFarm's website and start your staking journey today.

Website: www.stakingfarm.com

Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency & securities.

For media inquiries, please contact: Name: Klajdi Toci Position: CEO Email: info-at-stakingfarm.com

Source: StakingFarm
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Standard Uranium Ltd. (Standard Uranium or the Company) (TSX-V: STND) (OTCQB: STTDF) (Frankfurt: FWB:9SU) is pleased to announce it held its Annual General and Special Meeting of Shareholders (the Meeting) on March 26, 2024.

At the Meeting, shareholders voted in favour of all business items including setting the number of directors at six (6) and the re-election of directors: Jon Bey, Neil McCallum, Mike Young, Zoya Shashkova, Blair Jordan and Kenneth Judge. Furthermore, the shareholders have approved the re-appointment and remuneration of Manning Elliott LLP as the Companys auditor for the ensuing year, the re-approval of the Companys Omnibus Plan, and the approval of continuance resolution set out in Schedule C of the Companys information circular.

About Standard Uranium (TSX-V: STND)

We find the fuel to power a clean energy future

Standard Uranium is a uranium exploration company and emerging project generator poised for discovery in the worlds richest uranium district. The Company holds interest in over 209,867 acres (84,930 hectares) in the world-class Athabasca Basin in Saskatchewan, Canada. Since its establishment, Standard Uranium has focused on the identification, acquisition, and exploration of Athabasca-style uranium targets with a view to discovery and future development.

Standard Uranium has successfully completed four joint venture earn in partnerships on their Sun Dog, Canary, Atlantic and Ascent projects totaling over $31M in work commitments over the next three years from 2024-2026.

Standard Uraniums Davidson River Project, in the southwest part of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, comprises ten mineral claims over 30,737 hectares. Davidson River is highly prospective for basement-hosted uranium deposits due to its location along trend from recent high-grade uranium discoveries. However, owing to the large project size with multiple targets, it remains broadly under-tested by drilling. Recent intersections of wide, structurally deformed and strongly altered shear zones provide significant confidence in the exploration model and future success is expected.

Standard Uraniums eight eastern Athabasca projects comprise thirty mineral claims over 32,838 hectares. The eastern basin projects are highly prospective for unconformity related and/or basement hosted uranium deposits based on historical uranium occurrences, recently identified geophysical anomalies, and location along trend from several high-grade uranium discoveries.

Standard Uranium's Sun Dog project, in the northwest part of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, is comprised of nine mineral claims over 19,603 hectares. The Sun Dog project is highly prospective for basement and unconformity hosted uranium deposits yet remains largely untested by sufficient drilling despite its location proximal to uranium discoveries in the area.

For further information contact:

Jon Bey, Chief Executive Officer, and ChairmanSuite 918, 1030 West Georgia StreetVancouver, British Columbia, V6E 2Y3Tel: 1 (306) 850-6699E-mail: [email protected]

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements or forward-looking information (collectively, forward-looking statements) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: execution of the definitive agreement; conditions to the exercise the Option; the timing and content of upcoming work programs; geological interpretations; timing of the Companys exploration programs; and estimates of market conditions.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements contained herein. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Certain important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are highlighted in the Risks and Uncertainties in the Companys management discussion and analysis for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2023.

Forward-looking statements are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies that may cause the Companys actual financial results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied herein. Some of the material factors or assumptions used to develop forward-looking statements include, without limitation: that the transaction with the Optionee will proceed as planned; the future price of uranium; anticipated costs and the Companys ability to raise additional capital if and when necessary; volatility in the market price of the Companys securities; future sales of the Companys securities; the Companys ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the success of exploration, development and operations activities; the timing and results of drilling programs; the discovery of mineral resources on the Companys mineral properties; the costs of operating and exploration expenditures; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); uncertainties related to title to mineral properties; assessments by taxation authorities; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking statements and the assumptions made with respect thereto are made as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Source: Standard Uranium Ltd.
ORLANDO, Fla., March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sustainable Green Team, Ltd. (OTCQX: SGTM) ($SGTM), a leading Company in climate reversing technologies and provider of sustainable solutions, announces being awarded another esteemed County Contract in Florida. This latest triumph is a remarkable achievement that reinforces the organization's unwavering dedication to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

The contract's key highlights focus on the enhancement and upkeep of parks and recreational facilities, enriching the lives of county residents. Spanning over five years and valued at approximately $3 million, the Sustainable Green Team, Ltd. will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of outdoor spaces within the community.

The comprehensive contract encompasses a wide range of services, including emergency assistance, to ensure the safety and well-being of park and trail users. Moreover, it extends to 5 state-of-the-art recreation centers, numerous charming small parks scattered across 15,000 acres of lush greenery, and an array of amenities such as senior centers, pools, splash pads, and dog parks.

SGTM has secured ongoing government contracts with a combined total value of $37 million over the next 4 to 5 years and foresees expanding this further by strategically adding additional agreements to increase the Company's market share in those existing areas.

What sets these contracts apart is SGTM's innovative approach to tree maintenance, which ensures the safety and well-being of the county's trees and utilizes the byproducts as feedstock for the Company's revolutionary product line. This groundbreaking utilization of resources promotes sustainability and demonstrates the organization's commitment to creating a circular economy.

"We are honored to have been chosen for this significant County Contract," states Tony Raynor, CEO/President of SGTM. "Through our sustainable practices and unwavering dedication to environmental preservation, we strive to create a greener and more vibrant community for current and future generations."

The Sustainable Green Team, Ltd. stands at the forefront of the green revolution, revolutionizing how to approach parks and recreation. With SGTM's exceptional services and unwavering commitment to sustainability, the Company continues to make remarkable strides in building a better and more environmentally conscious world.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Tony Raynor at 1-407-886-8733 and [email protected].

About Sustainable Green Team, Ltd. (OTCQX: SGTM) ($SGTM):

Sustainable Green Team (OTCQX: SGTM) ($SGTM) is a leading company in climate reversing technologies, a provider of sustainable solutions to improve environmental health, promote sustainable practices, and deliver eco-friendly products and services. SGTM aims to make significant contributions to global sustainability; learn more by visiting the Company website, https://thesustainablegreenteam.com/, SGTM's YouTube Channel, corporate videos - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJ7Dp9Coi88&t=1s & https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kycfy-UvQsU, and SGTM's Blogs - https://thesustainablegreenteam.com/sgtm-blog.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements included within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements regarding our expected future financial position, results of operations, cash flows, financing plans, business strategy, products, and services, competitive positions, growth opportunities, plans and objectives of Management for future operations, including words such as "anticipate," "if," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "could," "should," "will," and other similar expressions are forward-looking statements and involve risks, uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control, which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from anticipated results, performance, or achievements. The Company cautions readers not to rely on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. We are under no obligation to (and expressly disclaim any such obligation to) update or alter our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Company Contact:

Tony Raynor, CEO Sustainable Green Team, Ltd. (OTCQX: SGTM) ($SGTM) [email protected] 407-886-8733

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/50ae6392-eea6-4248-afc8-5dc9f378133c

Sustainable Green Team, Ltd. (SGTM) Announces Its Landmark Accomplishment Obtaining Florida County Contract Awards Sustainable Green Team, Ltd. (OTCQX: SGTM ) ($SGTM), a leading Company in climate reversing technologies and provider of sustainable solutions, announces being awarded another esteemed County Contract in Florida. This latest triumph is a remarkable achievement that reinforces the organization's unwavering dedication to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship - https://thesustainablegreenteam.com/

Source: The Sustainable Green Team, Ltd.
Portugal Temporarily Bans Worldcoins Biometric Data Collection for 90 Days

The National Data Protection Commission (CNPD) of Portugal took decisive action on March 26 to safeguard personal data protection, particularly for minors, by temporarily banning Worldcoin.

In response to concerns raised by numerous complaints, the CNPD issued a temporary 90-day restriction on Worldcoins biometric data collection through its Orb devices within Portugal on Tuesday.

CNPD Issues Urgent Provisional Measure Due to Worldcoins Biometric Data Collection Concerns



This provisional measure stems from concerns regarding the company collecting biometric data, including iris, eye, and facial scans, without proper consent or authorization.

Additionally, the CNPD noted deficiencies in the information provided to data subjects and potential data deletion or revocation issues.

Mais de 300 mil pessoas ja forneceram os seus dados biometricos, https://t.co/aG5HCzvprb  CNN Portugal (@cnnportugal) March 26, 2024

The decision was further prompted by media reports indicating that over 300,000 individuals in Portugal had already provided their biometric data.

The rapid proliferation of collection points, particularly in commercial areas, raised concerns about the influx of participants. According to the GDPR, biometric data is classified as a special category of data that requires enhanced protection due to its inherent risks.

Minors, being particularly vulnerable, are entitled to special protection under European and national laws.

The CNPDs ongoing investigation will analyze incoming reports and take further steps as necessary to ensure compliance with data protection regulations and mitigate potential harm.

Worldcoin Addresses Legal Uncertainties Regarding Its Digital Identity Project



Worldcoin, a global digital identity and cryptocurrency project founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, has recently addressed legal uncertainties surrounding its operations, particularly in Spain.

 Today, Spanish data regulator Agencia Espanola de Proteccion de Datos instructed Sam Altmans @worldcoin to halt its operations in the country.#CryptoNewshttps://t.co/BE1zCwWjHE  Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) March 6, 2024

The situation in Spain escalated when the Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) issued a temporary order on March 6, prohibiting Worldcoin from collecting data in the country for three months.

The AEPD cited concerns related to users inability to withdraw consent and allegations of data collection from minors. Despite Worldcoins compliance efforts, a local court rejected its injunction against the data regulator.

This development in Spain is separate, as Worldcoin has also faced regulatory scrutiny in other jurisdictions. In January 2024, Hong Kongs Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) investigated Worldcoins operations due to concerns about personal data privacy risks.

Additionally, Worldcoins eye-scanning project encountered regulatory challenges in Kenya, leading to a government ban on local activities associated with the platform, including biometric identification, in August 2023.

Worldcoin has said it is willing to collaborate with the Kenyan government to resume operations in 2024, however.

Clear answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Worldcoin project. https://t.co/MkdxpIaEmV  Worldcoin (@worldcoin) March 18, 2024

In a statement released on March 18, Worldcoin assured stakeholders that it operates lawfully in all locations where it is available and is designed to comply with relevant laws fully.
PALO ALTO, CA, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the Latino Business Action Network (LBAN) , in collaboration with the Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB), released the 9th annual State of Latino Entrepreneurship (SOLE) research report highlighting the latest trends in Latino entrepreneurship across the U.S. The findings will be presented today at the 2024 State of Latino Entrepreneurship (SOLE) Summit.

The research provides valuable insights into the contribution and opportunity Latinos represent to the U.S. economy, as well as shedding light on the continuous challenges faced by Latino business owners. This years report aims to understand better the diversity and intricacies of Latino entrepreneurship, focusing on three different sub-groups: women business owners, tech-centric firms, and immigrant-owned companies.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

THE LATINO OPPORTUNITY FOR THE U.S. ECONOMY

The research shows that Latino-owned businesses are a dynamic and growing portion of the U.S.; with more than 5 million firms driving $800 billion in revenue, they represent a huge opportunity for the U.S. In fact, the number of Latino-owned businesses is growing 10x faster than white-owned businesses. Between 2007 and 2022, the United States experienced a 57% growth in Latino-owned businesses, substantially surpassing the 5% increase in white-owned businesses during the same period. Latinos continue to have higher growth rates than those owned by white entrepreneurs. As shown in the graph, the 3-year (2020-2023) median compound annual growth rate was 8.7% for Latino-owned businesses versus just 5.6% for white-owned businesses.

Latinos are not only starting businesses faster and experiencing higher revenue growth rates but they are also creating more jobs with better benefits. Between 2007 and 2022, the annual payroll of Latino-owned businesses more than doubled (123% increase), consistently showing higher growth rates compared to white-owned businesses. When considering how Latinos are creating businesses, growing them, and creating more jobs, it's evident that Latinos have a positive impact on the economy.

However, besides these great numbers, Latinos continue to face challenges due to systemic biases that limit their growth. If Latino entrepreneurs receive fair access to capital and contracts, it will unlock trillions of dollars of additional economic growth for the U.S. economy, benefiting us all. That is why LBAN places such a big focus on ecosystem building; at the heart of their mission is creating the ecosystem that Latinos and everyone else deserve. The State of Latino Entrepreneurship Summit is a testament to their commitment, with more than 1,000 in-person attendees ranging from business owners, policymakers, capital providers, elected officials, students, and other ecosystem builders coming together to network and collaborate, fostering meaningful connections within the community.

REPORT SEGMENTATION

The report dives deeper into Latina-owned businesses and tech-centric businesses. Its important to highlight that Latinas are starting new businesses and growing revenues more rapidly than their male counterparts. When looking at tech-centric companies, Latinos are over-indexing in the tech sector, which leads to faster adoption of AI technologies. To learn more, visit www.lban.us

With industry leaders such as Jose E. Feliciano, Managing Partner & Co-Founder of Clearlake Capital Group & Stanford Trustee, and Julian Castro, CEO of the Latino Community Foundation and former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the SOLE Summit promises to be an insightful and engaging event full with impactful discussions and strategic insights. The event will have different panel discussions on topics ranging from AI, access to capital, redefining the VC landscape for Latino startups, investing in immigrant entrepreneurship, and mergers & acquisitions.

At LBAN, we are fortunate that some of the largest financial institutions and corporations are actively engaging in unlocking this Latino opportunity with us, and we welcome all others, said Arturo Cazares, CEO of the Latino Business Action Network. The SOLE Summit at Stanford serves as a pivotal gathering, bringing together diverse stakeholders, including other ecosystem builders, academics, and government representatives, to share ideas and create collaborations that will grow economic opportunities for our country.

LBAN, the driver of the SOLE Summit, is supported by Bank of America, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase, Surdna Foundation, Dell Technologies, Latino Community Foundation, Prosperity Now, Immigrants Rising, and many others.

About the Latino Business Action Network (LBAN):

LBAN is a dynamic Silicon Valley-based nonprofit with a big mission to strengthen the U.S. economy by empowering Latino Entrepreneurship across the country through entrepreneurship research, education, and a network of resources. For more information on LBAN, please visit www.lban.us

For media inquiries, please contact:

Marian Garcia Cruz

LBAN Marketing Manager

[email protected]

(408) 384-9389

Attachment
Laurel, Maryland, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tower Federal Credit Union today announced it was honored with two Diamond Awards from the CUNA Marketing & Business Development Council of Americas Credit Unions. Tower won in the Rebrand/New Corporate Identity category for its recent brand refresh and in the Website category for website redesign.

The Diamond Awards are the most prestigious annual credit union industry competition and represent the best credit union marketing campaigns of the year. Winners are selected based on strategy, creativity, design and production, copy and communication, and results.

Tower is dedicated to improving the financial security and well-being of our members, said Tom Poe, Towers VP/Director of Marketing & Business Intelligence. Im so proud of our talented marketing team and honored that our work in support of our mission has received national recognition.

Towers brand refresh, which occurred in March 2023, included a new modern brand identity, logo, and tagline. The refreshed branding spanned all Tower branches, digital channels and member communications and marketing. The effort also included a major advertising campaign and new 30-second TV spot, achieving a 20% annual increase in both new members and new accounts.

In March 2023, Tower also launched a new website (towerfcu.org) with improved functionality and navigation, a mobile-first design, enhanced security features, and expanded financial education and resources.

A record 1,451 entries were submitted for this years Diamond Awards. Tower is one of only four Maryland credit unions to be recognized with a 2024 Diamond Award.

To learn more about Tower, visit towerfcu.org.

About Tower Federal Credit Union Tower Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, non-profit financial institution with headquarters in Laurel, MD. Established in 1953, Tower is one of the largest federal credit unions in Maryland with over $4.5 billion in assets. We provide a full array of financial products and services for our more than 225,000 members worldwide. We serve our local-area members with 12 branches in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, and Prince Georges counties and three branches at Fort Meade, as well as online services and digital banking at towerfcu.org.

About Americas Credit Unions Americas Credit Unions is the unified voice for not-for-profit credit unions and their more than 140 million members nationwide. Americas Credit Unions provides strong advocacy, resources and services to protect, empower and advance credit unions and the people and communities they serve. For more information about Americas Credit Union, visit AmericasCreditUnions.org.

Attachment

Carla Keister Tower Federal Credit Union 301-497-7000 ext. 7144 [email protected]

Source: Tower Federal Credit Union
TORONTO, March 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ontarios housing affordability crisis is leaving individuals and families on the sidelines of the Canadian dream of homeownership. To reverse this trend, governments must prioritize bold policy changes that will speed up the building of thousands of new homes.

The release of the 2024 Ontario Budget provides critical support to the provinces effort to save the Canadian dream of homeownership. Ontario is moving ahead with critical funding to connect developable land to water, sewer and other housing enabling infrastructure. This infrastructure funding will unlock thousands of new homes across the Greater Toronto Area.

The province is also following TRREBs advice to go all-in on modular housing. Modular homes are built quickly and are a cost-effective option that will help Ontario meet its housing supply targets. The budget signals the provinces strong commitment to using modular housing and more innovative technologies to help solve the housing affordability crisis.

TRREB has worked with the Ford Government and the Ontario real estate industry to introduce five pieces of legislation, including the More Homes, More Choice; More Homes Built Faster; Affordable Homes and Good Jobs; Helping Homebuyers Protecting Tenants; and Strong Mayors Build Homes. Each of these Acts have cut red tape and streamlined approvals to ensure the Greater Golden Horseshoe can meet the housing supply targets. We will continue to take action and work with policymakers to ensure homeownership and rental properties are affordable in our region for future generations.

Jennifer PearceTRREB President

Media Inquiries:Maria Karafilidis, Manager, Public Affairs [email protected] 416-443-8139

The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board is Canadas largest real estate board with over 70,000 residential and commercial professionals connecting people, property and communities.

Twitter | Facebook | Linkedin | Instagram | Youtube | Podcast

https://www.trrebwire.ca/

Source: Toronto Regional Real Estate Board
(Updated - March 27, 2024 8:22 AM EDT)

Shares of Nio (NYSE: NIO) fell more than 3% in premarket trading Wednesday after the electric vehicle (EV) maker revised its Q1 delivery forecast downward amidst declining demand and intense pricing competition in China.

The company now expects to deliver approximately 30,000 vehicles during the quarter, down from its earlier projection of between 31,000 and 33,000 units.

Last week, major EV manufacturers witnessed an increase in China sales, with figures generally improving as the end of the month approaches.

In the period from March 18 to 24, Nio recorded sales of 3,000 vehicles in the local market, up from 2,200 a week earlier, as reported by the local automotive news source Yiche.

The company delivered 8,132 vehicles in February, marking a 33.11% decrease compared to the same month last year and a 19.12% drop from January, based on the data released on March 1.

"We believe the Street had been expecting a guidance cut, given a softer-than-expected sales trajectory MTD, and the magnitude of cut looks fair," Morgan Stanley analysts headed by Tim Hsiao said in a note.

Despite the downward revision, analysts think the EV manufacturer "will still manage to balance volume growth and profitability trajectory without being overly aggressive with its pricing strategy."

To meet the updated guidance, the company must deliver at least 3,300 vehicles in the final days, a target that seems "achievable," according to Morgan Stanley.

This assessment is based on the company's production surge last week and the introduction of the new BaaS program has led to an order intake surpassing 3,000.

By Vahid Karaahmetovic
GRASS VALLEY, CA

Today BrewBilt Brewing Company (the "Company") (OTCPINK: BRBL) announces the achievements accomplished in establishing a successful commercial brewery and BrewHaus taproom and restaurant.

NewMediaWire ) - March 27, 2024 -

CEO Bennett Buchanan stated, I am thrilled to share with you the remarkable journey and accomplishments of BrewBilt Brewing since our inception. With unwavering dedication, strategic vision, and the support of our valued shareholders, we have achieved significant milestones that underscore our commitment to excellence and growth.

Since going public in June 2021, we have embarked on an exciting path of expansion and innovation. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction has propelled us forward, and I am pleased to report on some of our key achievements.

June 2021: BrewBilt Brewing goes public, marking the beginning of our journey as a publicly traded company.

June 2021: Begin construction of our state-of-the-art commercial brewery, laying the foundation for future growth and production.

June 2022: Successfully brewed our first craft beer, showcasing our dedication to brewing excellence.

July 2022: Begin self-distribution with the sale of our inaugural beer, marking a significant milestone in our journey.

September 2022: Secure our first large retail accounts with select Northern California Grocery Outlet locations, expanding our reach and visibility.

September 2022: Begin construction of our BrewHaus taproom and restaurant, expanding our offerings to provide a unique dining experience.

December 2022: Expand our large retail accounts with select Northern California Safeway locations, expanding our reach and visibility.

December 2022: Attain 140 commercial accounts and production of 100BBL per month, demonstrating steady growth and market acceptance.

April 2023: Attain 225 commercial accounts and production of 140BBL per month, indicating sustained growth and demand for our products.

June 2023: Achieve a Gold Medal for Brain Bypass Helles Lager from the California State Fair Commercial Craft Beer Competition, highlighting BrewBilts exceptional quality.

October 2023: Appeared on CBS News 'GoodDay Sacramento,' further amplifying our brand presence and recognition.

December 2023: Grand opening of our BrewHaus taproom and restaurant, providing customers with a memorable and immersive experience.

January 2024: Establish partnership with Mussetter Distributing for all commercial sales, enhancing our distribution network and market reach.

March 2024: Achieve cash-flow positivity with the BrewHaus taproom and restaurant, showcasing our ability to diversify revenue streams and drive profitability.

March 2024: Expand to 375 commercial accounts and increase production to 200BBL per month, reflecting sustained growth and market demand.

Buchanan continued, These milestones are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as the unwavering support of our shareholders. As we continue to chart our course for the future, we remain steadfast in our commitment to sustained expansion, profitability, and shareholder value.

Our revenue models, encompassing both commercial sales and the BrewHaus taproom and restaurant, are designed to support our long-term growth objectives. By leveraging our strengths and seizing opportunities in the market, we are confident in our ability to maintain and increase profits while enhancing the overall value of BrewBilt Brewing.

We recognize that the value of our stock is intrinsically tied to the underlying value of our assets and the potential for future growth. With each milestone we achieve, we further solidify our position as a leader in the craft beer industry and create opportunities for value appreciation.

In conclusion, I want to express my sincere gratitude to our shareholders for their continued support and confidence in BrewBilt Brewing. Together, we have laid a strong foundation for success, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as we continue to pursue our vision of excellence and innovation.

Follow us on Instagram (@BrewBilt_Brewing), Facebook (@BrewBiltBrewing), and X (Twitter) (@BrewBiltBrewing)

ABOUT BREWBILT BREWING COMPANY:

(http://www.brewbiltbrewing.com) and (http://www.brewbiltbrewhaus.com)

Located in the Sierra Foothills of Northern California, BrewBilt Brewing Company produces its own commercial line of premium craft beers with retail distribution in northern California . A 2023 California State Fair Gold Medal winner, Brewbilt beers are inspired by a European brewing tradition and American craft innovation that reflect a sense of place and a shared brewing philosophy for the customers ultimate drinking pleasure. The company uses regionally-sourced local malt, premium hops, and pristine water that provides a dynamic palette for distinctly satisfying beers.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations or forecasts of future events and are not guarantees of future performance, nor should they be relied upon as representing management's views as of any subsequent date. The forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially include, without limitation, the Company's ability to effectively execute its business plans; unforeseen construction delays; the Company's need for additional capital; changes in general economic and financial market conditions; changes in the competitive environment; litigation; losses, customer bankruptcy, claims and assessments; and regulatory or legislative requirements affecting the Company's business. Management may elect to update forward-looking statements at some future point; however, it specifically disclaims any obligation to do so.

Contact:

Bennett Buchanan, CEO

BrewBilt Brewing Company

(530) 206-0420

[email protected]

Source: BrewBilt Brewing Company
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Advanced Gold Exploration Inc (CSE:AUEX) (the "Company") is pleased to announce it has agreed to settle an aggregate of $16,650 of indebtedness to an arm's length creditor of the Company through the issuance of 602,410 common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Common Shares") at a price of $0.05 per Common Share (the "Debt Settlement"). The Common Shares issued pursuant to the debt settlement shall be subject to a four-month hold period and completion of the transaction remains subject to final acceptance of the Canadian Securities Exchange.

About Advanced Gold Exploration Inc.

Advanced Gold Exploration (Formerly Advance United Holdings Inc.) brings an entirely different approach to the mining industry. We don't mine. Rather, we've acquired a portfolio of undervalued gold properties and are increasing their value through the application of modern technology. We have a growing pipeline of similar properties that we are looking to acquire. We are involved exclusively in the acquisition and advancement of past projects - with no intent to bring them back into production or to mine them ourselves. Our expertise is in identifying and acquiring undervalued properties with significant historical work, which were uneconomic at the time, but we believe have economic value at today's prices. We fund the re-working historic data and applying modern technology to underwrite new qualified reports, document quantifiable resources and reserves to current standards, thereby recognizing the current value. Our purpose is to bring immediate and long-term value to our partners and shareholders while seeking to eliminate exploration risk, so that we can all advance in the shortest possible time frame. For additional information about us, our projects, or to find out how we can assist in the advancement of your project contact our CEO.

Contact Information

James Atkinson, M.Sc., P. Geo.,

CEO Advanced Gold Exploration Inc.

Email: [email protected]

Tel: (647) 278-7502

Forward-Looking Information and Cautionary Statements

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. 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/203327
David D. Tawil, CEO, extends up to USD 1,500,000 to Centaurus

Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Centaurus Energy Inc. (TSXV: CTA) (OTC Pink: CTARF) ("Centaurus" or the "Company") and its board of directors are pleased to announce the Companys new capital allocation strategy, focused on the Ether cryptocurrency (ETH), the native asset of the Ethereum blockchain. Related to this strategy, David D. Tawil, CEO of Centaurus has entered into an agreement to extend up to USD 1,500,000 to Centaurus.

Ether as Primary Treasury Reserve Asset

A commodity-focused enterprise since inception, Centaurus has a 25-year history of mining, valuing, and trading physical commodities. Now, the Company will broaden its scope to digital commodities, specifically, Ether.

David D. Tawil, CEO of Centaurus, said, Centaurus Energy is announcing a capital allocation strategy that reflects a new direction in its commitment to capital stewardship. Centaurus will benefit from its passive royalty interest in the Coiron Amargo Sur Este petroleum block, located in the Province of Neuqun, Argentina, over the next 15 years, which will largely result in excess cash. We have reduced our expense base to a minimum. And we are confident that we can manage our day-to-day business with a modest amount of operating cash. Accordingly, we believe it is appropriate to invest in assets with potentially higher returns than holding cash.

In addition to having served as Centaurus CEO since 2020, Mr. Tawil has been the President and Co-Founder of ProChain Capital, a multi-strategy cryptoassets hedge fund, since 2017.

Centaurus began purchasing Ether on March 26.

Capital Investment

In connection with its new strategy, David D. Tawil, CEO of Centaurus, has entered into a loan agreement with the Company, providing up to USD 1,500,000 of capital, at the greater of:(i) 7% per annum or (ii) 65% of the profits on the corresponding Ether purchased by the Company (the Tawil Loan

).

Our investment in Ether is part of our new capital allocation strategy, which seeks to maximize long-term value for our shareholders in Canada and in the United States, said David D. Tawil, CEO of Centaurus Energy. This investment reflects our belief that Ether, as the worlds most valuable cryptocurrency of a public blockchain powering smart contracts and DApps (Decentralized Applications), serving as the epicenter for DeFi (Decentralized Finance), NFTs (Non-fungible Tokens), and securities tokenization efforts by some of the largest asset management firms globally, is an attractive investment asset with more long-term appreciation potential than holding cash. Since its launch in 2015, Ethereum has emerged as a significant addition to the global financial system, with characteristics that are potentially useful to both individuals and institutions, and could revolutionize property ownership recording and transfers, including, real-property, personal property, contractual rights and financial products, banking and value-transfer, and creative works. Centaurus has recognized Ether as a legitimate investment asset that can be superior to cash and accordingly has made Ether the principal holding in its treasury reserve strategy.

Inclusive of its investment in Ether, Centaurus will consider opportunities to earn yield on the Ether that it owns, including the depositing of Ether into staking pools or liquidity pools.

In considering various commodities for potential investment, Centaurus observed distinctive properties of Ether that led it to believe investing in the cryptocurrency would provide the prospect of earning a higher return than other investments. Mr. Tawil articulated the opinion, We find the global acceptance, energy-efficiency, self-deflationary monetary policy, and consistent upgrade of network software of Ether to be persuasive evidence of its superiority as a commodity for those seeking meaningful long-term returns.

Related Party Transaction

As David D. Tawil is CEO of the Company, he is considered a related party for the purposes of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101). Accordingly, the Tawil Loan is a related party transaction. The Tawil Loan was obtained by Centaurus on reasonable commercial terms that are not less advantageous to Centaurus than if the Tawil Loan were obtained from a person dealing at arms length with Centaurus and the Tawil Loan has no equity or voting component. The Tawil Loan is not subject to minority approval or formal valuation.

Continuous Disclosure Obligation

The Companys new capital allocation strategy is a material change for purposes of National Instrument 51-102 Continuous Disclosure Obligations (NI 51-102).

About Centaurus Energy

The Company is an independent Canadian company that has been focused on Argentine upstream oil and gas with operations until January 2023. As mentioned in its management and discussion analysis for the third quarter of 2023, the Company is currently focused on managing the future proceeds from the sale of the Companys interests in certain exploitation projects based in Argentina referred to as PAE ORRI in its continuous disclosure documents, totaling US$16 million, which may include investment in new endeavors and/or capital returns. The Companys shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol CTA and on the OTC Pink Market under the symbol CTARF.

The content of this document is for informational purposes only and is not being provided in the context of an offering of any securities described herein, nor is it a recommendation or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any security. The information is not investment advice, nor is it tailored to the needs or circumstances of any investor. Information contained in this document is not, and under no circumstances is it to be construed as, an offering memorandum, prospectus, advertisement, or public offering of securities. No securities commission or similar regulatory authority has reviewed this document and any representation to the contrary is an offence. Information in this press release is current only as of the date provided and the Company is under no obligation to update this information, other than in accordance with applicable securities law.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

David Tawil, Chief Executive Officer

email: [email protected]

phone: (646) 479-9387

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 release.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release information within the meaning of applicable securities laws (forward-looking statements). Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: the Companys future revenues, the prospects for DeFi, the Ethereum protocol and platform, the future trading supply of the digital asset Ether, the potential for the Company to earn an Ether-denominated return on the portion of its Ether holdings that it devotes to staking and its plans in respect thereof, the market for digital assets in general and the potential for mainstream adoption of the Ethereum platform. The Company cautions the reader not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Often, but not always, forward-looking can generally be identified by words such as may, will, expects, anticipates, intends, plans, believes, estimates, guidance, or similar expressions. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are based on information available to management at the time that they are made, managements current plans, estimates, assumptions, judgments, and expectations. These estimates, assumptions, judgments and expectations include a view on general Ether adoption, global economic conditions and their impact on individual and corporate activity and profits, that there will be no material changes in the legislative, regulatory or operating framework for the Companys existing and anticipated business that cannot be reasonably managed, investors appetite for risky assets, and other matters discussed in the Companys materials filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities from time to time. Forward-looking statements are also subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical, technological and social uncertainties; uncertainties in regard to the development and acceptance of blockchain technology and the Ethereum platform (including Ethereum network upgrades), uncertainties pertaining to regulatory changes in various jurisdictions that may impact the adoption of digital assets and corporate business models, uncertainties regarding the Companys going-concern risk in the event that there is a decline in the price of Ether. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties relating to the Companys business are described under the heading Risk Factors in the Companys most recently filed Annual Information Form which is available online at www.sedarplus.ca.

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 Centaurus. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Although such information is considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, it may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Centaurus do not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/202919
Strong Growth for Combined AI Observability and Automation of IT Operations

Arlington, Virginia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Edge Total Intelligence Inc. (TSXV: CTRL) (OTCQB: UNFYF) (FSE: Q5i) ("edgeTI", "Company"), a leading provider of real-time digital operations software (now being referred to as Digital Twins), and Grokstream LLC ("Grok") are seeing strong traction and significant growth for their AI solution - Grok achieved a 200+% increase in annual recurring revenues (ARR) from the combined AI-driven IT observability and automation solution over the last year.





Complex ML Pipeline with GrokView by edgeCore

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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The two companies partnered a year ago to visualize and operationalize predictions from Grok as it gleans through millions of IT alerts, logs, metrics, and events using its real-time machine learning pipeline. Using edgeCore", Grok displays predictions at the end of the machine learning pipeline. It achieves this by leveraging a more extensive range of available signals, including alerts, telemetry, and logs when compared to traditional rules-based AIOps approaches that filter down the signal - ultimately sacrificing prevention and accuracy.

"We believe our growth and extension of services is in part due to a cleaner user interface enabled by the edgeCore" technology that lets us explain the value of our AI/ML solution at every moment," said Josh Kindiger, President of Grokstream. "Positive feedback from customers affirm that we are aligned with their top three goals: 1) Prevent impacts all you can, 2) Recover as quickly as possible, and 3) Automate operations all you can."

edgeTI's edgeCore front-end creates a digital twin of the Grok process - creating a window for operators to interact with the issues that could not be automated as well as explore issues that were already automated.

"Grokstream has truly delivered something new and affirms that AI and machine learning need to be observable and actionable," said Jim Barrett, CEO of edgeTI. "Our Digital Twin capabilities are important to Grokstream and the collective success of our customers."

In the coming year, the companies will conduct comarketing activities by coordinating industry analyst relations, attending trade events, and collaborating on new markets.

Today's announcement fits with an update regarding edgeTI's Fast Path to Safe and Successful AI, updated March 6, 2024 where Digital Twins were acknowledged as key to AI success and a bridge to the metaverse.

About Grokstream

Grokstream blends neuroscience and advanced machine learning, offering autonomous AI Operations with its flagship product, Grok" AIOps. With its flexible deployment model and robust capabilities across the AIOps life cycle, it offers unmatched alarm compression, proactive resolution, predictive analytics, and intelligent automation for self-healing. Diverging from conventional AIOps solutions reliant on rigid rules-based approaches, Grok heralds a new era in AIOps with its adaptive learning model.

To learn more about Grokstream, visit https://grokstream.com/ or follow us on LinkedIn. For more information on this story, contact Josh Kindiger at [email protected].

About edgeTI

edgeTI helps customers sustain situational awareness and accelerate action with its real-time digital operations software, edgeCore" that unites multiple software applicates and data sources into one immersive experience. Global enterprises, service providers, and governments are more profitable when insight and action are united to deliver fluid journeys via the platform's low-code development capability and composable operations. With edgeCore, customers improve their margins and agility by rapidly transforming siloed systems and data across continuously evolving situations in business, technology, and cross-domain operations - helping them achieve the impossible.

Website: https://edgeti.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/edgeti

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/edgetechnologies

Twitter: www.twitter.com/edge_suite

For more information, please contact:

Nick Brigman, Analyst and Press Relations

Phone: 888-771-3343

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 release.

Forward-Looking Information and Statements

Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements or information for the purposes of applicable Canadian and US securities law. 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.

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, 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 competition and general economic, and 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.







To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203225
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - First Lithium Minerals Corp. (CSE: FLM) (OTC Pink: FLMCF) (FSE: X28) ("First Lithium Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has directly staked additional 547 mining claims at its existing 100%-owned Lidstone exploration project (the "Lidstone") located in the Thunder Bay Mining Division of northwestern Ontario. The new mining claims represent a significant increase and expand the total claims area by 11,105 hectares to a total of 12,830 hectares.

In January 2024, the Ontario Geological Survey (OGS) issued its 2023-2024 Recommendations for Exploration report based on the Resident Geologist Program (RGP) using the existing OGS geological and mineral exploration data along with field exploration activities, that highlighted lithium-cesium-tantalum (LCT)-type pegmatite potential in the Witchwood and Morden Lake Areas, Eastern English River Subprovince, which are located in the immediate area of the Company's Lidstone project (Reference: "LCT-Type Pegmatite Potential in the Witchwood and Morden Lake Areas, Eastern English River Subprovince, Ontario Geological Survey Resident Geologist Program, Recommendations for Exploration 2023-2024" report).

The exploration recommendation in the report was based on field work and sampling that was conducted by OGS during the 2023 field season and historical exploration and geological research in the area. Areas considered for exploration included the Witchwood and Morden Lake areas, which have many regional features favourable for rare-element pegmatites, including the presence of metasedimentary and metavolcanic rocks in proximity to peraluminous granite plutons located near the subprovince boundary. Pegmatites samples collected were coarse muscovite with possible apatite and were encountered at surface (Figure 1).





Figure 1. Exposure outcrops in the recommended exploration area. Contact between metasedimentary rocks and white pegmatite. Lidstone Project, Thunder Bay Mining Division, Northwestern Ontario. Source: Ontario Geological Survey

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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The Lidstone project area is in the Thunder Bay Mining Division of northwestern Ontario, approximately 120 km northeast of the town of Armstrong, Ontario, has good infrastructure for exploration activities with many forestry roads providing easy access. The newly acquired mining claims are in Witchwood and Morden Lake areas and adjacent to the existing Lidstone mining claims (Figure 2).





Figure 2. Lidstone Mining Claims Group, Thunder Bay Mining Division, Northwestern Ontario. Area of Recommendation (OGS) Source: Company reports, Ontario Geological Survey

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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The Lidstone mining claims group lies near the margins of the English River Subprovince of the Superior Province and remains primarily unexplored. The historical exploration work in the area indicated the presence of mafic-ultramafic intrusive rocks hosting anomalous Ni-Cu-PGE mineralization (Reference: MDI000000000142, Primary commodity: Nickel, Copper, Secondary commodity: Cobalt, Platinum Metals, Sim Lake Occurrence, Ontario Geological Survey). The area also exhibited anomalous lake geochemistry lithium (Li) grade clusters.

Rob Saltsman, CEO and Director of First Lithium Minerals, commented: "While we have long recognized the Lidstone project area as an attractive exploration target for lithium and potentially copper, the recent Ontario Geological Survey report on recommendations for exploration in the Lidstone project area solidified our belief and made our project even more exciting. With the staking of new claims, we further strengthen First Lithium Minerals' presence in northwestern Ontario and are strategically positioned now with the substantial land package to explore the significant potential of this region."

The Company is planning to conduct reconnaissance exploration, geologic mapping, including geophysical and geochemical surveys at the Lidstone project during the 2024 field season.

About First Lithium Minerals

First Lithium Minerals is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company. The Company is currently focusing on exploring for alkali metals at its 100% owned OCA Project comprised of approximately 9,000 ha of mineral exploration concessions located in the salars of Ollague, Carcote, and Ascotan in the Antofagasta Region of northern Chile. In Q4/22 and Q1/23 the Company conducted two property-wide geophysical surveys, identified two priority exploration targets for potential brine mineralization, and is currently planning its inaugural drilling program at the Salar de Ascotan pending obtaining required drilling permits and licences. First Lithium Minerals is also exploring for lithium and critical metals at its 100% owned exploration properties comprised of 16,740 ha of mining claims in northwestern Ontario, Canada.

Additional information about the Company is available on the Company's website: www.firstlithium.ca

Qualified Person

Adrian Smith, PGeo, is a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101, and is a registered professional geoscientist (PGeo). Mr. Smith has reviewed and approved the technical information disclosed herein.

For further information please contact:

First Lithium Minerals Corp.

77 King St. W Suite 3000

Toronto, ON M5K 1G8

Tel: 416-402-2428 Email: [email protected]

Rob Saltsman, CEO and Director

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "contemplates", "believes", "projects", "plans", and similar expressions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: prospecting and exploration activities, geophysical and geochemical surveys, its results and interpretation, studies and interpretations of historical exploration and geological information, drill target definition, permitting, licences, environmental laws and regulations, changes in government regulations and laws, obtaining social licence to explore and operate, community engagements, timing of exploration activities, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves, general business, economic, competitive, reliance on third parties, the actual results of operations, and other risks of the resources industry. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203200
Sudbury, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Magna Mining Inc. (TSXV: NICU) (OTCQB: MGMNF) (FSE: 8YD) ("Magna" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the signing of a Definitive Off-Take Agreement (the "Agreement") with Vale Base Metals wholly-owned subsidiary Vale Canada ("Vale") for the advanced exploration portion of the Crean Hill Project.

Jason Jessup, CEO of Magna Mining stated, "We are extremely pleased to be able to announce the signing of the Definitive Off-Take Agreement with Vale. This Agreement is the culmination of several months of work with Vale and we are quite pleased with the outcome. Additionally, the recent announcement of the filed Amended Closure Plan has Magna on track to have all the permits in place to develop the ramp from surface, which will allow for underground test mining and set up for a future commercial production decision."

Under the Agreement initial production would be shipped to Vale's Clarabelle Mill in Sudbury for processing. This includes material from the Main, Intermediate, 9400, 9400 Footwall and 101 Footwall zones. The 109 Footwall zone is excluded from the Agreement and is planned to be processed through an alternative mill with potentially increased precious metal recovery during the advanced exploration period. In advance of negotiating the Agreement, Magna completed an extensive test program at a third-party metallurgical facility using representative ore samples from the Crean Hill deposit. The results were used to develop recovery predictions at varying ore feed grades and producing a high concentrate grade consistent with the Clarabelle Mill flowsheet. The predicted mill recovery from the test work was calculated at 80.5% Ni, 93.6% Cu and approximately 70% for Co, Pt, Pd, Au. These recoveries were established using Magna's internal (non NI 43-101 compliant) estimates of potentially minable grades for advanced exploration (Table 1). These results were used to determine nickel and copper concentrate smelting and refining treatment terms, which were negotiated and resulted in the Agreement between Magna and Vale.

Table 1. Average Advanced Exploration Estimated Grades*

Metal Grade* Nickel 1.5 % Copper 1.0 % Total Precious Metals

(Pt, Pd, Au) 1.0 g/t

*Non NI 43-101 compliant internal estimate of potentially minable grades

As stated in the news release dated March 4, 2024, Magna has also submitted an application for a Permit to Take Water (PTTW) to the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP). In September 2023, Magna received comments back from the MECP on the application, amendments to the application were made in October and December 2023 and Magna has been in correspondence with the MECP since then. Magna anticipates having the PTTW approved before the end of Q2 2024. This permit will allow Magna to dewater the underground workings at Crean Hill, which is necessary for the commencement of underground advanced exploration and test mining.

The advanced exploration grades used for the negotiation of the Agreement were based on the August 19, 2022 Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") and did not include the assay results from the more than 19,000 metres of diamond drilling completed at Crean Hill since the MRE was announced. Magna is planning on updating the MRE in Q2 2024, which will be used for final underground stope designs. Based on the diamond drilling results reported in 2023, Magna anticipates the possibility of improved grades in some areas of the advanced exploration test mining compared to those based on the 2022 MRE.

Magna is currently exploring several non-equity sources of capital to fund underground advanced exploration. This may include funding in the form of government grants and/or a by-product metal stream. Magna is fully funded for a 25,000 m exploration drilling program in 2024 which is focused on making new discoveries at the Crean Hill and Shakespeare projects. Diamond drills are currently operating at both sites with assay results expected monthly for the remainder of 2024.

Issuance of RSU's

Effective June 9, 2023, Magna granted 25,000 restricted share units ("RSU'") pursuant to its restricted share unit plan to Ann-Marie Finney, the Chief Financial Officer of Magna. The RSU's vest three years following the grant date.

Qualified Person

The technical information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by David King, M.Sc., P.Geo. Mr. King is the Senior Vice President, Technical Services for Magna Mining Inc. and is a qualified person under Canadian National Instrument 43-101.

About Magna Mining Inc.

Magna Mining is an exploration and development company focused on nickel, copper and Platinum Group Metals (PGM) projects in the Sudbury Region of Ontario, Canada. The Company's flagship assets are the past producing Shakespeare and Crean Hill Mines. The Shakespeare Mine is a feasibility stage project which has major permits for the construction of a 4,500 tonne per day open pit mine, processing plant and tailings storage facility and is surrounded by a contiguous 180km2 prospective land package. Crean Hill is a past producing nickel, copper and PGM mine with a technical report dated July 2023. Additional information about the Company is available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and on the Company's website (www.magnamining.com).

For further information, please contact:

Jason Jessup

Chief Executive Officer

or

Paul Fowler, CFA

Senior Vice President

Email: [email protected]

Cautionary Statement

This press release contains certain forward-looking information or forward-looking statements as defined in applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts and are subject to several risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control, including statements regarding the production at the Shakespeare and Crean HIll Mines, the economic and operational potential of the Shakespeare and Crean Hill Mines, potential acquisitions, plans to complete exploration programs, potential mineralization, exploration results and statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions of the Company. Resource exploration and development is highly speculative, characterized by several significant risks, which even a combination of careful evaluation, experience and knowledge may not eliminate. All forward-looking statements herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203197
Russian Ministries Discuss Crypto Mining Legalization  But Theres a Twist

Russian ministries could be prepared to legalize industrial crypto mining in the country. But one key department could yet throw a spanner in the works.

After years of dismay and repeated pleas for Moscow to formally recognize mining as a form of entrepreneurship, miners this month submitted a new draft bill to ministries.

Per the Russian newspaper Izvestia, most ministers are now ready to grant mining legal status.

However, the Ministry of Industry and Trade  which has the final say on business classifications  is not convinced.

Russian Ministries Break Ice on Crypto Mining Discussion



Miners want Moscow to recognize their business as an industry. They want the state to assign mining a code in the All-Russian Classifier of Economic Activities (OKVED).

The Ministry of Energy told Izvestia that it supports this move, as does the Ministry of Economic Development.

The Ministry of Finance, Cryptonews.com believes, is also inclined to back the proposal. It has previously suggested legalizing industrial mining, and banning private mining ventures.

The media outlet quoted the deputy head of the relevant State Duma committee as stating that not everyone is in favor of the idea.

But the same lawmaker noted that the ice has been broken, and opined that a decision would be forthcoming within a month.

MP Valery Seleznev, a member of the State Duma Committee on Energy, said a number of interdepartmental meetings have been held on mining in recent weeks.

Seleznev noted that the Ministry of Digital Development had little interest in the matter until recently.

But, Seleznev said, the ministry has since had a change of heart and is now participating in talks.

Not Everyone on Board with Mining Plans, Insiders Say



Earlier this year, miners suggested that they would allow Russian government officials to make use of their cutting-edge data centers to expand state-run IT projects.

Miners have more support still in the State Duma, where lawmakers Anton Tkachev, Vladimir Plyakin, Grigory Shilkin, and Sardana Avksentyeva have backed their draft bill.

One party that has not yet made its feelings clear is the Central Bank, which has previously called for a ban on crypto mining.

A financial expert claimed this week that Moscow has little appetite for crypto-related discussions.

She said that the Central Bank and most ministries are instead focusing on rolling out the digital ruble.

US officials this week indefinitely withdrew a survey aimed at gathering information on the crypto-mining industry's power use, hindering attempts to understand the sector's impact on grids and energy prices at a time of record activity https://t.co/2fZxyQndDT pic.twitter.com/TQ0QpRiN7L  Reuters Legal (@ReutersLegal) February 28, 2024

Hope Springs for Russian Crypto Miners?



The media outlet said authorities are considering two options for legalization. One of these involves creating a new, separate OKVED category for [crypto] mining.

The other would see ministers add mining to an already existing section of the OKVED database.

Miners have repeatedly called on Moscow to help take their industry out of the legal grey zone.

The finance ministry also wants to do this, believing it can expect a tax windfall if mining becomes legal.

A crypto mining bill was submitted to the State Duma in 2022, but failed to pass the committee stage after a first reading.

The nations biggest mining firm, BitRiver, approached the Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov with a legislative proposal in mid-2023. This was also unsuccessful.

Russia and Western countries have traded barbs over a deadly attack by gunmen that killed 137 people in a concert hall outside Moscow. Here is a timeline of events before and after the attack: https://t.co/KRTqvqZYwO  Reuters (@Reuters) March 26, 2024

The head of the Russian Industrial Mining Association (IPM), Sergei Bezdelov, told the media outlet:

Taking into account the more attractive market conditions for conducting mining activities in the Russian Federation, we have every chance to push the United States out of first place.

Earlier this month, the IPM said that Russian industrial miners were ready to invest $4 billion in the industry.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Medaro Mining Corp. (CSE: MEDA) (OTC Pink: MEDAF) (the "Company" or "Medaro") is pleased to announce the results of its latest diamond drilling endeavor at the CYR South lithium property (the "Property"), located in James Bay, Quebec, Canada. The Company's exploration has revealed excellent intersections of lithium within the drill holes.

Partnering with Forage Pelletier Drilling ("FPD") of Chapais, Quebec, the Company's comprehensive program encompassed eleven NQ size drill holes, spanning 1,745 metres of diamond drilling. Leveraging state-of-the-art technology, including handheld laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy ("LIBS") instruments and laboratory analysis conducted at Activation Laboratories ("ACTLABS") in Ancaster, Ontario, the Company's findings have identified several highly prospective pegmatite intersections.

Medaro's strategic selection of drill hole locations, informed by extensive groundwork conducted in 2022, underscores the Company's commitment to precision and data-driven exploration. By strategically situating four drill holes near satellite imaging targets (SIT), the Company attempted to maximize such holes' potential for success.

Michael Mulberry, CEO of Medaro, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are delighted with the outcomes from our drilling program at the CYR South property. The anomalous intersections of lithium present exciting opportunities for further exploration and we are excited to expand on these results with plans for additional exploration in 2024."

Highlights:

Drill Hole CYR23-01 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated lithium (Li) values in the range of 40.6 parts per million (ppm) to 2,202.1 ppm. The laboratory assays indicated several intercepts with over 100 ppm Li with one 3-metre-wide section indicating average 244 ppm Li.

Drill Hole CYR23-02 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated Li values in the range of 23.6 ppm to 383 ppm. Samples were not sent to the lab due to low LIBS values and/or no visible spodumene mineralization.

Drill Hole CYR23-03 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated Li values in the range of 27.6 ppm to 472.5 ppm. Samples were not sent to the lab due to low LIBS values and/or no visible spodumene mineralization.

Drill Hole CYR23-04 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated Li values in the range of 42.1 ppm to 6,615.1 ppm. The laboratory assays of selected intervals showed low Li values (less than 100 ppm).

Drill Hole CYR23-05 intersected a 46-metre-wide zone with average 150 ppm Li at 18 metres drilled depth, including a 2-metre-wide zone of 278 ppm Li, and a 3-metre-wide zone of 460 ppm Li at 49 m drilled depth. Field scanning with LIBS was not done on this drill hole due to non-availability of the instrument.

Drill Hole CYR23-06 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated Li values in the range of 15 ppm to 776.1 ppm. Samples were not sent to the lab due to low LIBS values and/or no visible spodumene mineralization.

Drill Hole CYR23-07 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated Li values in the range of 44.1 ppm to 491.6 ppm. Samples were not sent to the lab due to low LIBS values and/or no visible spodumene mineralization.

Drill Hole CYR23-08 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated Li values in the range of 33.7 ppm to 335 ppm. Samples were not sent to the lab due to low LIBS values and/or no visible spodumene mineralization.

Drill Hole CYR23-09 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated Li values in the range of 49.8 ppm to 531.6 ppm. Samples were not sent to the lab due to low LIBS values and/or no visible spodumene mineralization.

Drill Hole CYR23-10 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated Li values in the range of 58.2 ppm to 603.3 ppm. Samples were not sent to the lab due to low LIBS values and/or no visible spodumene mineralization.

Drill Hole CYR23-11 - Field scanning with LIBS for the drill hole core samples indicated Li values in the range of 63.1 ppm to 512.7 ppm. The laboratory assays indicated several intercepts with over 100 ppm Li.

Table 1: Further Drill Hole Details

Hole ID UTM Coordinates (NAD 83 Zone 18N) Azimuth Dip Drilled Depth (m) Satellite Imaging Target (SIT) Number CYRS-23-01 18U 356788 5785646 222m 30 -45 150 CYRS-23-02 18U 357189 5785379 219m 35 -45 150 CYRS-23-03 18U 357197 5784301 221m 360 -45 150 CYRS-23-04 18U 357090 5784107 219m 350 -45 171 CYRS-23-05 18U 358225 5784478 207m 350 -45 153 D1d CYRS-23-06 18U 357834 5783411 252m 360 -45 198 D2a CYRS-23-07 18U 357707 5782822 252m 20 -45 159 CYRS-23-08 18U 359114 5783669 252m 340 -45 186 CYRS-23-09 18U 360485 5783794 236m 15 -45 168 CYRS-23-10 18U 359018 5784484 216m 20 -45 158 D1g CYRS-23-11 18U 358015 5784647 189m 360 -45 102 V1c Total 11 NQ Size Core Diamond Drill Holes 1,745





Figure 1: 2023 Drill Hole Location Map with Satellite Imaging Targets (SIT)

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About Core Logging and Sampling

Quality control and quality assurance (QC/QA) measures were implemented during the exploration process. FPD set up a temporary core storage and preliminary core logging site at the Camp 381 location, which was the base camp for the drill program. After preliminary logging, all core was transported for detailed logging to a core shack located in St-Dominique du Rosaire village, located approximately 400 km to the south of the Property. Field duplicates, standards, and blanks were regularly incorporated at industry-standard intervals to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results. The collected samples were packed and delivered to ACTLABS, an independent and ISO Certified Laboratory, for analysis using laboratory code Ultratrace 7 and sodium peroxide fusion (Na2O2).

Qualified Person

Afzaal Pirzada, P.Geo., a "Qualified Person" for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Michael R. Mulberry

CEO & Director

About the Company

The Company is an exploration company based in Vancouver, BC. The Company owns the Superb Lake lithium property located in Thunder Bay, Ontario and holds options over the Darlin, Rapide and CYR South lithium properties in Quebec and the Yurchison uranium property in the Athabasca basin, Saskatchewan. The Company is also party to a joint venture agreement that engages the Company in the development and commercialization of a new process to extract lithium from spodumene concentrate.

For more information, investors should review the Company's filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca.

Contact Information

[email protected]

604-602-0001

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, including statements respecting the Company's plans for further exploration work on the Property, are "forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company based on information currently available to it. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities, which may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203261
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Nexus Uranium Corp. (CSE: NEXU) (OTCQB: GIDMF) (FSE: 3H1) (the "Company" or "Nexus") is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Benjamin Asuncion to aid in the Company's business development efforts.

"I am excited to welcome Benjamin to the team given his extensive experience in identifying assets, strategic M&A, and increasing investor engagement which will prove invaluable as we embark on an exciting new opportunity for the Company with the Cree East project," commented Jeremy Poirier, CEO of Nexus Uranium Corp. "The Cree East project positions Nexus with one of the largest land packages in the western Athabasca Basin, right in the heart of existing mines and active development projects, and the ability to leverage over $20 million of past exploration insights towards a new significant discovery."

Mr. Asuncion has over 17 years of experience in the capital markets and natural resources sector. Since 2017, he has acted as principal of P.I. Holdings Ltd., a private company that provides management consulting services to public companies. Mr. Asuncion has held senior management, board of director and advisory roles with several public companies in the mineral exploration, healthcare, technology, and life sciences sectors. From 2007 through 2016, Mr. Asuncion acted as a mining analyst with Haywood Securities Inc. Prior to joining Haywood, he was involved in the management of an endowment fund at Simon Fraser University. Mr. Asuncion holds a Bachelor of Business degree from Simon Fraser University with concentrations in finance, accounting, and management science.

About Nexus Uranium Corp.

Nexus Uranium Corp. is a multi-commodity development company focused on advancing the Cree East uranium project in the Athabasca Basin and the Wray Mesa uranium-vanadium project in Utah in addition to its precious metals portfolio that includes the development-stage Independence mine located adjacent to Nevada Gold Mine's Phoenix-Fortitude mine in Nevada, the Napoleon gold project in British Columbia, and a package of gold claims in the Yukon. The Wray Mesa project covers 6,282 acres within the heart of the prolific Uruvan mining district in Utah and has extensive historical drilling of over 500 holes defining multiple mineralized zones. The Independence project hosts an M&I (measured and indicated) resource of 334,300 ounces of gold (28M tonnes at 0.41 g/t gold) and an inferred resource of 847,000 ounces (9M tonnes at 3.22 g/t gold) of gold with a substantial silver credit. A 2021 Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) outlined a low-cost heap leach operation focusing on the near-surface resource with total production of 195,443 ounces of gold at an all-in sustaining cost of $1,078 (U.S.) per ounce of gold. The Napoleon project comprises over 1,000 hectares and prospective for multiple forms of gold mineralization, with exploration in the area dating back to the 1970s with the discovery of high-grade gold. The Yukon gold projects are comprised of almost 8,000 hectares of quartz claims prospective for high-grade gold mineralization with historical grab sampling highlights of 144 g/t gold.

Nexus Uranium cautions investors the preliminary economic assessment is preliminary in nature, it includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves, and there is no certainty that the preliminary economic assessment will be realized. The Company further cautions investors Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability and further cautions investors the quantity and grade of the reported inferred Mineral Resources are uncertain in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define these inferred Mineral Resources as indicated Mineral Resources.

The Company cautions investors it has yet to verify the historical data and further cautions investors grab samples are selective by nature and are unlikely to represent average grades of sampling on the entire property.

--

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Jeremy Poirier

Chief Executive Officer

[email protected]

This news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding future estimates, plans, objectives, timing, assumptions or expectations of future performance are forward-looking statements and contain forward-looking information, including, but not limited to: planned permitting and exploration at the Cree East Project; any exercise of the option to acquire the Cree East Project and the anticipated potential for discovery of high-grade unconformity-style uranium mineralization at the Project.

Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this news release, including, but not limited to: the assumption that the CSE will approve the Option Agreement; the assumption that the Project has the potential for high-grade unconformity-style uranium mineralization; the assumption that the Company will be successful in obtaining all necessary permits to complete exploration; and the assumption that such exploration will be able to commence this year.

These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including, but not limited to: the risk that the CSE will not approve the Option Agreement and inherent risks associated with the mining industry and the results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties, stock market volatility and capital market fluctuations, general market and industry conditions, as well as those risk factors discussed in the Company's most recently filed management's discussion & analysis.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203257
Tortola, British Virgin Islands--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - Sailfish Royalty Corp. (TSXV: FISH) (OTCQX: SROYF) (the "Company" or "Sailfish") is pleased to announce that on March 18, 2024 a Notice of Intent ("NOI") to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement ("EIS") for the Proposed Spring Valley Gold Mine ("Spring Valley Mine Project") located in Pershing County, Nevada, was published in the federal register.

In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended (NEPA), and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, as amended, the Bureau of Land Management ("BLM") Humboldt River Field Office in Winnemucca, Nevada, intends to prepare an EIS to consider the effects of the Spring Valley Mine Project.

This news follows the Company's previous Spring Valley Mine Project announcement on July 26, 2023, whereby the BLM acknowledged receipt of a Plan of Operations and Nevada Reclamation Permit Application ("PO") for the Spring Valley Mine Project and confirmed that it is technically complete under the terms of the relevant permitting statutes (see the Company's new release dated July 26, 2023 for further information).

Paolo Lostritto, CEO stated, "We are excited to see the permitting process continue to advance at the Spring Valley Mine Project as our royalty portfolio covers 100% of the proposed open pit as outlined in the Plan of Operations with the majority of the royalty coverage resulting in a 3% net smelter return royalty payable to Sailfish. The filing of the NOI to prepare an EIS is a significant step forward towards becoming an operating mine. The reference document highlights an expected Record of Decision by the winter of 2025. The Spring Valley Mine Project is one of the largest gold development projects in the Americas and is a core value driver for Sailfish shareholders."

Plan of Operations:

The PO covers 698 unpatented claims and 895 mill site claims as well as private fee lands, either owned or controlled by the Operator and proposes, among other things, the following activities and facilities:

Development of the Spring Valley open pit;

Construction of pit dewatering facilities, including rapid infiltration basins;

Development of three waste rock storage facilities;

Development of a heap leach facility;

Construction of a crushing circuit;

Construction of carbon processing and refining facilities;

Development of light duty and haul roads;

Development of stormwater control structures;

Development of other facilities including the mine fleet shop, explosives storage, truck shop, refueling area, and mine offices;

Development of site infrastructure including parking areas, yards, storage areas, and an aggregate plant; and

Development of site utilities including: power distribution, a used materials pad, freshwater distribution, potable water system, fire water system, sewage system, communications facilities, and fuel storage and distribution facilities.

The PO states that the proposed operation will use conventional open pit mining methods. The PO outlines the excavation of the open pit to occur over 13 years, which includes 18-24 months of pre-stripping during construction. Over the life of mine, approximately 323 million tons of mineralized material is expected to be mined, along with 598 million tons of waste rock and 328 million tons of alluvium. The average mining rate for Spring Valley is expected to be approximately 100 million tons of material per year.

The proposed operation would employ a contractor workforce of approximately 130 employees during the initial two-year construction period and approximately 250 full-time employees for the operations period. The proposed operation would operate 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. The total life of the Spring Valley Mine Project would be 29 years, including two years of construction, 11 years of mining, three additional years of ore processing, and 13 years of reclamation and closure activities.

As a reminder to shareholders, the Company's current royalty portfolio on the Spring Valley Mine Project covers 100% of the open pit as outlined in the PO, with the majority of the acres included in the proposed open pit covered by a 3% net smelter return royalty ("NSR") at prevailing gold prices. See Figure 1 below.

Sailfish holds the following Spring Valley Mine Project royalty assets:

up to a 3% NSR1 on a majority of the acres included in the proposed open pit at Spring Valley Mine Project (royalty boundary in blue); a 1.5% NSR on a portion of the proposed open pit at Spring Valley Mine Project (royalty boundary in pink); and a 0.5% NSR on a portion of the proposed open pit at Spring Valley Mine Project (royalty boundary in yellow2).

Figure 1 - Sailfish Royalty Corp.'s various Spring Valley Mine Project royalty holdings (boundaries are approximate).

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1 For clarity, the up to 3% NSR owned by Sailfish is part of a total 7% NSR above $700/oz. Au. The sliding scale NSR royalty is not payable on the first 500,000 ounces of gold recovered from any commercial production.

2 Excluding the areas included in the blue and pink boundaries.

Spring Valley hosts a 2014 published National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") compliant report. The technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on Resources, Spring Valley Project", effective August 1, 2014, was prepared by William J. Crowl, R.G., MMSA QP, Zachary J. Black, SME-RM and Deepak Malhotra, PhD, SME-RM and filed by Midway Gold Corp. on September 9, 2014 and is based on work completed in a joint venture between Midway Gold Corp. and Barrick Gold Corporation (the "Technical Report"). The technical report is available at www.sedarplus.ca under Midway Gold Corp.'s profile.

About Sailfish

Sailfish is a precious metals royalty and streaming company. Within Sailfish's portfolio are three main assets in the Americas: a gold stream equivalent to a 3% NSR on the San Albino gold mine (~3.5 sq. km) and a 2% NSR on the rest of the area (~134.5 sq. km) surrounding San Albino in northern Nicaragua; an up to 3% NSR on the multi-million ounce Spring Valley gold project in Pershing County, Nevada; and a 100% interest in the Gavilanes Silver Project located in Durango State, Mexico.

Sailfish is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "FISH" and on the OTCQX under the symbol "SROYF". Please visit the Company's website at for additional information.

Qualified Person

Dr. Matthew D. Gray, President, Resource Geosciences Incorporated, Qualified Person under NI 43- 101 on standards of disclosure for mineral projects, has reviewed and approved the technical content of this release. To verify the technical content of this disclosure Dr. Gray reviewed the: Spring Valley Mine Plan of Operations and Nevada Reclamation Permit Application prepared by Solidus Resources Spring Valley, Nevada, USA; and the BLM acknowledgement letter, obtained from the NDEP and the Humboldt River field office of the BLM.

For further information: Paolo Lostritto, CEO, tel. 416-602-2645 or Akiba Leisman, Executive Chairman of the Board, tel. 917-558-5289.

Neither the 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 statement regarding forward-looking information

Certain disclosures in this release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by words such as the following: expects, plans, anticipates, believes, intends, estimates, projects, assumes, potential and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements also include reference to events or conditions that will, would, may, could or should occur, including, without limitation, statements regarding: advancement of the permitting process for Spring Valley; plans relating to the development and construction of Spring Valley as contemplated in the PO; expected mining results over the LOM; expected Record of Decision by the winter of 2025; and discussion of future plans, projects, objectives, estimates and forecasts and the timing related thereto. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable, including, without limitation: that BLM will approve the PO and the Operator will receive necessary permits to complete its proposed development and construction of Spring Valley as contemplated in the PO; the development and construction of Spring Valley will be completed as contemplated in the PO; and that future mining operations at Spring Valley will produce the anticipated results. However, the forward-looking statements in this news release are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements, including without limitation: that BLM does not approve the PO and the Operator is unable to obtain the necessary permits to complete its proposed development and construction of Spring Valley as contemplated in the PO; the proposed development and construction of Spring Valley is not completed as contemplated in the PO; the results of future mining operations at Spring Valley may be less favorable than anticipated; and those applicable risks, uncertainties and factors set forth in the Company's disclosure record under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203226
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 27, 2024) - T2 Metals Corp. (TSXV: TWO) (OTCQB: AGLAF) (WKN: A2DR6E) ("T2" or the "Company") in collaboration with the Kiciwapa Cree Nation, is pleased to announce a joint award to recognise the positive impact of the Sherridon Exploration Agreement signed by both parties in 2023. The joint award was given at the 3rd Annual Reconciliation Gala and Forum held recently in Winnipeg, organised by the Manitoba Prospectors and Developers Association, and received by Kiciwapa Cree Headman Floyd North, and T2 Metals Director Amanda Dahl.

In June 2023, the Kiciwapa Cree Nation and the Mathias Colomb First Nation signed an Exploration Agreement with T2 Metals. This Exploration Agreement defines how the Kiciwapa Cree and T2 Metals will work together during exploration of the Sherridon copper-zinc-gold project in Manitoba, to ensure maximum employment, training, and financial benefit is retained within the Sherridon community.

In addition, the Exploration Agreement provides for a Reserve Fund where a percentage of exploration expenditure is utilized for community projects. This Reserve Fund is held by T2 Metals on behalf of the Kiciwapa Cree Nation and has been and will be applied to promote and support local business opportunities on request of the Kiciwapa Cree Nation.

A drilling program undertaken by T2 Metals in Q4 2023 provided multiple employment and training opportunities for Kiciwapa community members. The program, executed by Quesnel Brothers Drilling Ltd, was safe and successful and built strong connections between T2 Metals, the drilling contractors and the Sherridon community.

Mark Saxon, CEO of T2 Metals Corp. said, "We are very pleased to have our Exploration Agreement with the Kiciwapa Cree Nation recognised at the Manitoba Reconciliation Gala. The success of the relationship between T2 Metals and Kiciwapa Cree Nation will be a key measure of the success of the Sherridon project, and I value this positive first step. The relationship between the Company and the community is strong, and we appreciate being welcomed to explore at Sherridon. I particularly appreciate the close collaboration between Floyd North, Mitch Quesnel and Darrell Turcotte that facilitated a safe and successful first drilling program."

Floyd North, Headman of the Kiciwapa Cree Nation commented, "Kiciwapa Cree Nation would like to thank Chief Gordie Bear, Mathias Colomb Cree Nation, Mark Saxon and Jamil Sader, T2 Metals and Mitch Quesnel, of Quesnel Brothers Drilling for the positive working relationship and partnership based on early, transparent and consistent communication. The Exploration Agreement recognised and respected our Treaty 6 adhesion rights, and the interests of the Kiciwapa Cree Nation, ensuring that all work programmes were completed in a culturally sensitive manner. The key to our success were the deliverables that were provided by the project. In the end, our strong partnership and awesome Agreement created more opportunity for the Kiciwapa Cree Nation community members. We looking forward to more project activity in 2024."

The Hon. MaryAnn Mihychuk, President of the Manitoba Prospectors and Developers Association commented, "the Exploration Agreement at Sherridon that was recognised at the MPDA Reconciliation Gala illustrates what works for both forward-looking mineral explorers and the community. The Agreement reflects a partnership which delivers respect and benefits to both sides."

Floyd North and Amanda Dahl Receive Award Recognition from Kevin Norberg

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Floyd North With Award Recognition, Painting by Patrick Ross



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About T2 Metals Corp (TSXV: TWO) (OTCQB: AGLAF) (WKN: A2DR6E)

T2 Metals Corp is an emerging copper and precious metal company enhancing shareholder value through exploration and discovery. The Company continues to target under-explored areas, including the Sherridon, Lida, Cora and Copper Eagle projects where post-mineralization cover masks areas of high geological prospectivity in the vicinity of major mines.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD,

"Mark Saxon"

Mark Saxon

President & CEO

For further information, please contact:

t2metals.com

1305 - 1090 West Georgia St., Vancouver, BC, V6E 3V7

[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 release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information set out in this news release constitutes forward-looking information. Forward looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based upon the opinions and expectations of management of the Company as at the effective date of such statements and, in certain cases, information provided or disseminated by third parties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, and that information obtained from third party sources is reliable, they can give no assurance that those expectations will prove to have been correct. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from results contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Such risks include uncertainties relating to exploration activities. When relying on forward-looking statements to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/203223
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The renowned firm offers a protective clear coat sealant for its customers.



Perigee Direct, a leading provider of innovative surface protection solutions, proudly announces the launch of Nukote Premera T2 for Metal & Concrete (aka IONYX T2), a Nano-Ceramic Quartz-based clear coat or anti-rust sealant. This product sets a new standard in surface protection, offering unparalleled defense against environmental and chemical risks for metal, concrete, brick, and other masonry surfaces.

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By offering Nukote Premera T2 for Metal & Concrete (aka IONYX T2), the firm seeks to offer solutions that significantly impact individuals.

About the company: Perigee Direct is a leading provider of innovative solutions for surface protection, catering to industries worldwide.Through ongoing research and development, the company continually pushes the boundaries of what's possible in surface protection. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements, Perigee Direct ensures that its products meet industry standards.

Contact Info:

Name: Media Contact

Email: Send Email

Organization: Perigee Direct

Address: 5102 Commercial Drive, North RIchland Hills, TX, 76180

Phone: +1 817-381-9398

Website: https://www.perigeedirect.com/



Release ID: 89125563

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In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, the convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain technology stands out as a transformative force reshaping industries worldwide.



In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, the convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain technology stands out as a transformative force reshaping industries worldwide. At the forefront of this digital revolution is XRootAI, a pioneering company based in Santa Clara, California. XRootAI is breaking new ground with its innovative AI-Blockchain solutions, poised to redefine industry standards and drive unprecedented progress across diverse sectors.



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Media Contact Information:-

Twitter: https://twitter.com/XRootAIProject

Telegram: https://t.me/XRootAI



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Name:- Arpita Karmakar

Website: News Coverage Agency

Email: [email protected]

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Organization: XRootAI

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MANCHESTER, England , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A growing UK -based remittance service provider, ACE Money Transfer, is delighted to announce its renowned promotion, 'Salam Bangladesh,' this time with bigger prizes in line with the Bangladeshi government's 2.5% incentives on foreign remittances to promote the use of regulated channels.

The company is giving away eight new iPhone 15 Pro and 50 cash prizes of BDT 20,000 each to Bangladeshi customers across the UK , European Union countries, Canada , Australia , and Switzerland . This promotion is open to all customers who will send money to Bangladesh through ACE Money Transfer throughout Ramadan 2024.

Despite a colossal 7.69% surge in remittance during the past 7 months, recording over $2.1 billion in January and February 2024 , the new year began with a foreign exchange crisis for Bangladesh . The World Bank projects that the overall remittance inflows to Bangladesh in FY24 are expected to remain flat at $23 billion . Several Economists and other Financial experts attribute the flat ratio of remittances to the weak dollar exchange rates that have driven Bangladeshi diasporas towards using unregulated channels like Hawala/Hundi.

ACE Money Transfer has stepped forward to promote the use of regulated channels to drive increased remittance inflows to Bangladesh . The firm believes that alongside the government's 2.5% incentive, its much-anticipated 'Salam Bangladesh' promotion will significantly help stimulate the remittance inflows to Bangladesh .

Customers can win the said prizes by sending remittances to Bangladesh via ACE Money Transfer throughout Ramadan 2024. Bangladeshi expats will need to use the code 'BANGLA' to register their entries to the lucky draws when creating remittance transactions via ACE Money Transfer.

Mr Rashid Ashraf , CEO of ACE Money Transfer, says, "We stand committed to empowering Bangladeshi overseas workers through cutting-edge digital remittance solutions. With deep gratitude for the tireless efforts of our global Bangladeshi diaspora, we pledge unwavering support, delivering excellence in service and rewarding experiences."

About ACE Money Transfer

ACE Money Transfer, based out of Manchester , the UK , is a growing remittance provider. It offers impeccable online money transfer services to millions of Pakistani expatriates with an extensive network of 375,000+ locations spread across 100+ countries worldwide.

Visit: ACE Money Transfer

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2372714/Salam_Bangladesh_Ramadan_Campaign.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1807198/ACE_Money_Transfer_Logo.jpg

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ace-money-transfer-announces-its-much-anticipated-salam-bangladesh-campaign-with-bigger-prizes-this-ramadan-302100840.html

SOURCE Ace Money Transfer
Increased retail investor engagement as a result of the evolving market and regulatory framework

NEW YORK and LONDON , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Fintech leader Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE: BR) today announced its latest whitepaper on the trends driving the proxy voting and corporate governance activities of retail investors throughout Europe .

The whitepaper, The Continued Empowerment of the Retail Shareholder, looks at how ongoing reviews of the Capital Markets Union (CMU) and the Shareholder Rights Directive (SRDII), combined with wider adoption of new technology, a greater emphasis on user experience and a shift in the priorities of traditional and next-generation retail investors, are shaping the market and further engaging the retail segment.

"The evolving regulatory framework in Europe to support both ESG and shareholder voting, both for equities and funds will more than likely encourage even higher retail activity in the longer term," said Demi Derem, General Manager of International Corporate Governance, Digital Transformation and Market Innovation at Broadridge. "Equipped with greater awareness and transparency around ESG credentials, the investing public will be more inclined to vote on key company issues such as board diversity and environmental criteria."

"It's fascinating to see how the EU's strategic focus on the retail investor as a pillar of its Capital Markets Union and the emphasis on governance as part of the ongoing review of SRD II are changing key dynamics for these investors across the region," said Virginie O'Shea , the Founder of Firebrand Research, who worked with Broadridge to develop the whitepaper. "Working with Broadridge and their insights and data on corporate governance has enabled us to delve deeper into the underlying trends driving increased activity from retail investors."

Broadridge works with financial intermediary firms internationally to provide them with a seamless and white-labelled proxy voting service that empowers their retail investor clients and drives higher levels of engagement. The user experience is consistent for clients across the various portals and mobile applications to allow voting from any location and using the financial institutions' own branding and front ends where that is a preference.

Broadridge's Investor Communication Solutions business sits at the center of a global network that connects hundreds of broker-dealers and wealth managers, thousands of public companies, tens of thousands of funds, more than 100 million individual investors and 750 million unique equity positions.

To download the full whitepaper, click here.

About Broadridge

Broadridge Financial Solutions (NYSE: BR), a global Fintech leader with more than $6 billion in revenues, provides the critical infrastructure that powers investing, corporate governance and communications to enable better financial lives. We deliver technology-driven solutions that drive business transformation for banks, broker-dealers, asset and wealth managers and public companies. Broadridge's infrastructure serves as a global communications hub enabling corporate governance by linking thousands of public companies and mutual funds to tens of millions of individual and institutional investors around the world. Our technology and operations platforms underpin the daily trading of more than U.S. $10 trillion of equities, fixed income and other securities globally. A certified Great Place to Work, Broadridge is part of the S&P 500 Index, employing over 14,000 associates in 21 countries.

For more information about us and what we can do for you, please visit www.broadridge.com.

Broadridge Contacts:

Investors:

Edings Thibault

Head of Investor Relations, Broadridge

[email protected]

Media:

Gregg Rosenberg

Global Head of Corporate Communications

[email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/across-europe-retail-investor-voting-activity-is-growing-according-to-new-broadridge-whitepaper-302100399.html

SOURCE Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.
LAS VEGAS , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Advanced Digital Solutions LLC, a Nevada -based corporation specializing in distributing data center infrastructure, IT hardware, audio-video products, telecommunications, and connectivity products, today announced plans for significant growth and employment opportunities in the Las Vegas area. Founded by Farhaad Sheikh , the company has established itself as a leader in providing comprehensive design and manufacturing services, including engineering, staffing, solution integration, and supply chain solutions.

With a robust presence in Nevada and offices and warehouses across the nation, Advanced Digital Solutions LLC is strategically positioned to serve a wide array of industries, including government sectors, educational institutions, data center hyperscalers, critical facilities, hotels, casinos, airports, internet service providers, and contractors. The company's global reach, supported by international offices, enables it to meet the needs of global companies efficiently.

At the core of its success, Advanced Digital Solutions LLC boasts strong partnerships with top manufacturers, ensuring premium services and products for its clients. "Our relationships with leading manufacturers allow us to provide exceptional services and products that meet the evolving needs of our diverse clientele," said Farhaad Sheikh, Founder of Advanced Digital Solutions LLC.

In line with its growth trajectory, the company is set to expand its workforce in Las Vegas, Nevada . The upcoming job openings will include positions in application support services, computer programming, and computer systems analysis support services. This expansion reflects the company's commitment to fostering local talent and contributing to the economic growth of the Las Vegas region.

"We are excited about the opportunities this expansion brings, not only for our company but for the Las Vegas community. We are committed to creating jobs and investing in the local economy," Sheikh added.

For more information about Advanced Digital Solutions LLC and the upcoming employment opportunities, please visit www.adsii.com

Contact:

Farhaad Sheikh

Founder & CEO

Advanced Digital Solutions LLC

(725) 254-8402

[email protected]

www.adsii.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/advanced-digital-solutions-llc-announces-expansion-and-new-employment-opportunities-302101108.html

SOURCE Advanced Digital Solutions LLC
KleinVision a.s., the Slovakia -based developer of the world's first certified flying car, the AirCar, has made a groundbreaking move towards realizing the dreams of individuals seeking to navigate through traffic congestion by taking to the skies in their cars

NITRA, Slovakia , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- KleinVision announces a significant agreement, having sold a geographically limited license for producing state-of-the-art certified flying car technology to the prominent Chinese company Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Co., LTD. The deal, finalized for an undisclosed amount, marks a strategic move in the advancement of innovative mobility solutions.

This licensing agreement grants the Chinese company exclusive rights to manufacture and distribute certified flying cars utilizing KleinVision's cutting-edge technology within a specific geographical region. The Jianxin Group is poised to leverage this groundbreaking technology to redefine transportation standards in China .

"We are pleased to announce the sale of the license for our certified flying car technology to the esteemed Chinese company," stated Stefan Klein , Chairman of the Board at KleinVision. "This partnership represents a significant step in our mission to expand global access to revolutionary mobility solutions and drive progress in the industry," added Anton Zajac , co-founder at KleinVision.

With this transaction, KleinVision continues its commitment to fostering innovation and creating strategic alliances to propel advancements in transportation technology. Hebei Jianxin's dedication to excellence and market leadership aligns perfectly with the AirCar developer's vision of shaping the future of mobility on a global scale.

This landmark agreement solidifies KleinVision's position as a market leader in the development and dissemination of pioneering transportation solutions. Recent visits of the first billionaire Youtuber, MrBeast and the crew of Grand Tour: Jeremy Clarkson , Richard Hammond and James May are clear validations of KleinVision's technology as demonstrated in their videos.

Stay tuned for updates as KleinVision continues to collaborate with partners worldwide to revolutionize mobility and enhance the way people travel.

For more information on our certified flying car technology or business partnerships, please contact [email protected].

About KleinVision:

KleinVision is a leading technology innovator, and a trailblazer in mobility solutions committed to driving progress and revolutionizing the future of mobility. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, we strive to provide advanced solutions that redefine the way individuals and goods are transported.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aircar-developer-signs-groundbreaking-manufacturing-deal-302099946.html

SOURCE Klein Vision
In recent months, there has been a drumming up of anti-Islamic rhetoric. At the core of this Islam-bashing is the seemingly undeniable idea that Islam is a violent religion.

Recent remarks by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Presidential nominee Donald Trump about banning people who shout jihad indicate the extent of apprehension and dread created by the word. They also leave everyday practicing Muslims with a moral quandary (sorry Piers Morgan, couldnt resist that): should they shy away from this loaded term or reclaim it as a part of their divine vocabulary?

The latter choice behooves an explanation of what jihad actually means, in order to clarify the moral and ethical code Islam teaches its adherents to live by.

Jihad is an Arabic word which means to strive or to struggle. Jihad can take many different forms. To most Muslims, it is first and foremost a call for self-discipline, a call to control their baser selves, which tempt one to act selfishly, deceitfully or impulsively. The self-sacrifice needed to raise children or take care of elderly parents is an example of this kind of personal jihad.

Once a man came to prophet Muhammed PBUH, expressing his desire to join a military expedition. The prophet asked him if he had parents. When the man answered that he did, the prophet famously told him, Then make jihad in their service, implying that filial service is more challenging and rewarding than military valor.

Striving for knowledge, and not just the religious kind, whether to learn or teach it, is also jihad. Islam teaches Muslims to strive for goals beyond their personal lives. For instance, looking after a widow or needy person is considered to be jihad. Struggling for justice and equality in society is also jihad. The prophet said, The best jihad in the path of Allah is (speaking) a word of justice to the oppressive ruler, encouraging his followers to speak truth to power centuries before the civil right movements of the 20th century coined and popularized the phrase.

While all the above are ways that all Mulsims must do jihad at all times, there is a special set of circumstances wherein the Quran calls for military striving, too. This form of jihad is the one that has been misappropriated by groups like ISIS, Boko Haram and Al-Qaeda, and caused crises and chaos in the last 50 years. Misappropriated because these groups have used this term to justify their own political agendas, spread hate and recruit resistance. They have done so by taking specific Quranic verses out of context and giving them their own ideological spin.

It becomes vital then to lay out what Islam does say about military jihad.

Regarding its justification, the Quran is clear that self-defense is always the underlying cause. Permissible reasons for military jihad are self-defense, strengthening Islam, protecting the freedom of Muslims to practice their faith, protecting Muslims against oppression, which includes overthrowing a tyrannical ruler, punishing an enemy who breaks an oath, putting right a wrong.

It also has to obey very strict rules in order to be legitimate: the opponent must have started the fighting, it must not be fought to gain territory, must be launched by a religious leader, must be fought to bring about good, every other way must be tried before resorting to it, innocent people should not be killed, women, children or old people should not be hurt or killed, women must not be raped, enemies must be treated with justice, wounded enemy soldiers must be treated exactly the same as ones own soldiers, the war must stop as soon as the enemy asks for peace, property must not be damaged, poisoning wells (in modern analogy, chemical or biological warfare) is forbidden.

Furthermore, a war is not considered jihad if the intention is to convert people to Islam, conquer to colonize, take territory for economic gain, settle disputes or demonstrate a leaders power. The Quran says:Fight against Allah against those who fight against you, but begin not hostilities. Lo! Allah loveth not the aggressors.

Understanding melts misconceptions and builds bridges. Hopefully this article gives one enough pause to reconsider their ideas about Islam and look at jihad not as an arbitrary license to kill, but as a calling to continuously seek and strive for personal growth, social justice and removal of oppression, all of which are universal and worthy goals for everyone, across time and cultures.
The awards will support educator development in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- American College of Education (ACE) has announced a partnership with the Indiana Association of Public Education Foundation (INAPEF) to award full tuition scholarships to four education professionals in Indiana representing the MSD of Wayne Township , Tippecanoe School Corporation, Center Grove Community School Corporation and Lake Central School Corporation. The recipients will receive what amounts to $25K worth of scholarship funding for the 2023-24 school year.

"It's beyond exciting to partner with INAPEF," ACE Chief Growth Officer Monica Carson said. "We look forward to following each of the recipients throughout their educational journeys and watching the impact their education will have in classrooms and districts statewide."

Both organizations aim to use the scholarships to support INAPEF member organizations and ACE's mission of providing access to affordable, flexible and high-quality education.

"This collaboration is a great way to support educator development in Indiana ," INAPEF Association Administrator Krista Baber added. "We can't wait to continue creating more opportunities to help educators reach their career goals."

About American College of Education

American College of Education (ACE) is an accredited, fully online college specializing in high-quality, affordable programs in education, business, leadership, healthcare and nursing. ACE is ranked #2 on Newsweek's 2023 top online colleges list. Headquartered in Indianapolis , ACE offers more than 60 innovative and engaging programs for adult students to pursue a doctorate, specialist, master's or bachelor's degree, along with graduate-level certificate programs. In addition to being a leader in online education, ACE is a Certified B Corporation.

About INAPEF:

INAPEF'S 72 education foundation member organizations raise more than $16 million annually to support K-12 education outcomes for students throughout the state. While these foundations have traditionally supported classroom grants and scholarships, many of these organizations now find themselves more involved in funding district-wide initiatives. By helping connect district staff with affordable higher education opportunities, these non-profit foundations can support their partner school corporations to combat the teacher shortage.

INAPEF was formed in 2000 to grow the number of public education foundations and to strengthen them as philanthropic leaders. To learn more about INAPEF and the different ways they support local education foundations, visit https://www.inapef.org/.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-college-of-education-presents-four-full-scholarships-in-partnership-with-indiana-association-of-public-education-foundation-302097558.html

SOURCE American College of Education
CERTIFICATION INCLUDES NEW PACKAGING SEAL FOR PRODUCTS MADE WITH INGREDIENTS GROWN BY AMERICAN FARMERS

ST. LOUIS , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Anheuser-Busch recently announced the national rollout of its newly-adopted U.S. Farmed certification and seal for several of its industry-leading beer brands, showing support for farmers in the U.S. , including Oregon , where the state's farmers sold $6.8B worth of agricultural products in 20221. Developed and verified by the American Farmland Trust (AFT), a national nonprofit that helps to keep American farmers on their land, the U.S. Farmed certification and packaging seal helps shoppers choose products that derive at least 95 percent of their agricultural ingredients from farms in the United States .

Anheuser-Busch is a proud supporter of American farmers, including farmers in Oregon whom the brewer purchases over $6M in hops from each year for Budweiser, Bud Light and Busch Light . Consumers in Oregon are empowered to purchase U.S. Farmed certified products to benefit U.S. farmers and invest in the future of domestic ingredient sourcing, helping to ensure a vibrant and thriving agricultural sector in America for generations to come. The U.S. Farmed seal will first appear on Anheuser-Busch's Busch Light this May, and Budweiser, Bud Light and Michelob ULTRA have also obtained U.S. Farmed certification.

Companies across the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) industry are encouraged to join the effort by obtaining U.S. Farmed certification for their domestically-sourced products. AFT will use funds raised through those certifications to expand programs and provide U.S. farmers across all 50 states with free resources and expert advisory services to help them access, protect, and maintain American farmland.

By harnessing the potential of U.S. sourced goods across the entire CPG industry, the U.S. Farmed certification aims to create a far greater impact for American agriculture than any one company could alone. This industry-wide effort will be supported by an Anheuser-Busch led campaign, "Choose Beer Grown Here," to encourage consumers to seek the U.S. Farmed certification and seal when shopping for products.

"American farmers are the backbone of this country, and Anheuser-Busch has been deeply connected to the U.S. agricultural community and committed to sourcing high-quality ingredients from U.S. farmers for more than 165 years  that's who we are," said Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth . "We source nearly all the ingredients in our iconic American beers from hard-working U.S. farmers  many of whom we have worked with for generations. The U.S. Farmed certification takes our commitment to the next level, and we are proud to lead the industry in rallying behind American farmers to ensure the future of U.S. agriculture, which is crucial to our country's economy. We look forward to other companies joining us in seeking U.S. Farmed certification for their products so that together we can make an even greater impact and show our support for American farmers."

The U.S. Farmed certification comes at a critical moment for American agriculture. According to AFT, within the next 15 years, ownership of over 30 percent of our nation's agricultural land could be in transition as the current generation of farmers prepares to retire. At the same time, farmland loss threatens the very foundation of our agricultural capacity, and new and beginning farmers are often challenged to secure the capital needed to enter agriculture. The U.S. Farmed certification will address this challenge head on by providing growers in Oregon and across the country with access to the direct support needed to pursue their options for maintaining and protecting their farmland, as well as innovative strategies for transitioning their land to the next generation of farmers.

"For over four decades, American Farmland Trust has worked tirelessly to ensure the land that sustains us remains in farming and its soils stay healthy and productive. Now, with the launch of the U.S. Farmed certification, we're taking a bold step to help secure the future of American agriculture and create both a movement and a market niche that celebrates and supports our nation's farmers," said Beth Sauerhaft , PhD, AFT Acting President and CEO. "Each U.S. Farmed certification has the potential to open new opportunities for farmers to receive assistance with succession planning, farmland protection tools for their operations, and other useful tactics to safeguard their land  our nation's food systems. We appreciate Anheuser-Busch's leadership in bringing the U.S. Farmed certification to some of the country's most iconic brands, while also making tangible impact for American farmers."

"We are excited to partner up with American Farmland Trust and Anheuser-Busch to champion American-grown products through the U.S. Farmed certification," said Gayle Goschie , Owner at Goschie Farms. "Sourcing locally means investing in high-quality products and the future of American agriculture. U.S. Farmed guarantees that American farmers receive the resources that'll help maintain and protect farmland."

" Oregon's farmers are a pillar of our state's economy and have a proud history of producing top-quality crops," said Oregon State Representative Vikki Breese-Iverson . "American Farmland Trust is fighting to keep that tradition alive with their new U.S. Farmed certification, an initiative that encourages consumers to choose products that directly support Oregon farmers and rural communities across the country."

For more information on the U.S. Farmed certification and seal, including resources for American Farmers and product certification, please visit http://www.farmland.org/us-farmed.

Learn more about Anheuser-Busch's commitment to U.S. farmers here http://www.anheuser-busch.com/USFarmed.

ABOUT AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. AFT launched the conservation agriculture movement and continues to raise public awareness through our No Farms, No Food message. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 7.8 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and supported thousands of farm families. Learn more at www.farmland.org.

ABOUT ANHEUSER-BUSCH

At Anheuser-Busch, our purpose is to create a future with more cheers. We are always looking to serve up new ways to meet life's moments, dream big to move our industry forward, and make a meaningful impact in the world. We hope to build a future that everyone can celebrate, and everyone can share. For more than 165 years, Anheuser-Busch has carried on a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. Today, we own and operate more than 120 facilities, including breweries, wholesaler distribution centers, agricultural facilities and packaging plants, and have more than 18,000 colleagues across the United States.

We are home to several of America's most loved beer and beyond beer brands, including Michelob ULTRA, Cutwater Spirits, Stella Artois, Budweiser and Bud Light as well as a number of regional brands that provide beer drinkers with a choice of the best-tasting craft beers in the industry. From responsible drinking programs and emergency drinking water donations to industry-leading sustainability efforts, we are guided by our unwavering commitment to supporting the communities we call home. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

1 USDA National Agricultural Statistics Services (2022). Census of Agriculture. Retrieved from https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/index.php.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-farmland-trust-and-anheuser-busch-support-oregon-farmers-through-new-us-farmed-certification-302101297.html

SOURCE Anheuser-Busch
CERTIFICATION INCLUDES NEW PACKAGING SEAL FOR PRODUCTS MADE WITH INGREDIENTS GROWN BY AMERICAN FARMERS

ST. LOUIS , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Anheuser-Busch recently announced the national rollout of its newly-adopted U.S. Farmed certification and seal for several of its industry-leading beer brands, showing support for farmers in the U.S. , including Texas , where the state's farmers sold $32.2B worth of agricultural products in 20221. Developed and verified by the American Farmland Trust (AFT) , a national nonprofit that helps to keep American farmers on their land, the U.S. Farmed certification and packaging seal helps shoppers choose products that derive at least 95 percent of their agricultural ingredients from farms in the United States .

Anheuser-Busch is a proud supporter of American farmers, including rice farmers in Texas whom the brewer purchases over $11 million in rice from each year for Budweiser and Bud Light. Consumers in Texas are empowered to purchase U.S. Farmed certified products to benefit U.S. farmers and invest in the future of domestic ingredient sourcing, helping to ensure a vibrant and thriving agricultural sector in America for generations to come. The U.S. Farmed seal will first appear on Anheuser-Busch's Busch Light this May, and Budweiser, Bud Light and Michelob ULTRA have also obtained U.S. Farmed certification.

Companies across the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) industry are encouraged to join the effort by obtaining U.S. Farmed certification for their domestically-sourced products. AFT will use funds raised through those certifications to expand programs and provide U.S. farmers across all 50 states with free resources and expert advisory services to help them access, protect, and maintain American farmland.

By harnessing the potential of U.S. sourced goods across the entire CPG industry, the U.S. Farmed certification aims to create a far greater impact for American agriculture than any one company could alone. This industry-wide effort will be supported by an Anheuser-Busch led campaign, " Choose Beer Grown Here ," to encourage consumers to seek the U.S. Farmed certification and seal when shopping for products.

"American farmers are the backbone of this country, and Anheuser-Busch has been deeply connected to the U.S. agricultural community and committed to sourcing high-quality ingredients from U.S. farmers for more than 165 years  that's who we are," said Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth . "We source nearly all the ingredients in our iconic American beers from hard-working U.S. farmers  many of whom we have worked with for generations. The U.S. Farmed certification takes our commitment to the next level, and we are proud to lead the industry in rallying behind American farmers to ensure the future of U.S. agriculture, which is crucial to our country's economy. We look forward to other companies joining us in seeking U.S. Farmed certification for their products so that together we can make an even greater impact and show our support for American farmers."

The U.S. Farmed certification comes at a critical moment for American agriculture. According to AFT, within the next 15 years, ownership of over 30 percent of our nation's agricultural land could be in transition as the current generation of farmers prepares to retire. At the same time, farmland loss threatens the very foundation of our agricultural capacity, and new and beginning farmers are often challenged to secure the capital needed to enter agriculture. The U.S. Farmed certification will address this challenge head on by providing growers in Texas and across the country with access to the direct support needed to pursue their options for maintaining and protecting their farmland, as well as innovative strategies for transitioning their land to the next generation of farmers.

"For over four decades, American Farmland Trust has worked tirelessly to ensure the land that sustains us remains in farming and its soils stay healthy and productive. Now, with the launch of the U.S. Farmed certification, we're taking a bold step to help secure the future of American agriculture and create both a movement and a market niche that celebrates and supports our nation's farmers," said Beth Sauerhaft , PhD, AFT Acting President and CEO. "Each U.S. Farmed certification has the potential to open new opportunities for farmers to receive assistance with succession planning, farmland protection tools for their operations, and other useful tactics to safeguard their land  our nation's food systems. We appreciate Anheuser-Busch's leadership in bringing the U.S. Farmed certification to some of the country's most iconic brands, while also making tangible impact for American farmers."

"The U.S. Farmed seal, pioneered by AFT and achieved first by Anheuser-Busch, is an incredible testament to the importance of buying products that are locally sourced," said Neal Stoesser , rice farmer at Stoesser Family Farms. " Texas growers are critical to the U.S. economy, and we are excited about the large impact this certification will have on the future of Texan farmlands."

For more information on the U.S. Farmed certification and seal, including resources for American Farmers and product certification, please visit http://www.farmland.org/us-farmed .

Learn more about Anheuser-Busch's commitment to U.S. farmers here http://www.anheuser-busch.com/USFarmed .

ABOUT AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. AFT launched the conservation agriculture movement and continues to raise public awareness through our No Farms, No Food message. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 7.8 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and supported thousands of farm families. Learn more at www.farmland.org .

ABOUT ANHEUSER-BUSCH

At Anheuser-Busch, our purpose is to create a future with more cheers. We are always looking to serve up new ways to meet life's moments, dream big to move our industry forward, and make a meaningful impact in the world. We hope to build a future that everyone can celebrate, and everyone can share. For more than 165 years, Anheuser-Busch has carried on a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. Today, we own and operate more than 120 facilities, including breweries, wholesaler distribution centers, agricultural facilities and packaging plants, and have more than 18,000 colleagues across the United States.

We are home to several of America's most loved beer and beyond beer brands, including Michelob ULTRA, Cutwater Spirits, Stella Artois, Budweiser and Bud Light as well as a number of regional brands that provide beer drinkers with a choice of the best-tasting craft beers in the industry. From responsible drinking programs and emergency drinking water donations to industry-leading sustainability efforts, we are guided by our unwavering commitment to supporting the communities we call home. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram .

1 USDA National Agricultural Statistics Services (2022). Census of Agriculture. Retrieved from https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/index.php .

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/american-farmland-trust-and-anheuser-busch-support-texas-farmers-through-new-us-farmed-certification-302101304.html

SOURCE Anheuser-Busch
BLOOMFIELD, N.J. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- AMG Medical Institute, a premier healthcare education provider located in Bloomfield, New Jersey , is proud to announce its continued commitment to excellence in healthcare training through its flagship programs: Ultrasound Sonography, MRI Technologist, and Surgical Technologist. These programs are designed not only to meet the current demands of the healthcare industry but also to anticipate and shape the future of these critical professions.

With a focus on innovation, state-of-the-art technology, and hands-on training, AMG Medical Institute ensures that students are not just prepared for their careers but are positioned to become leaders in their respective fields. The Ultrasound Sonography program offers extensive training in diagnostic medical imaging, the MRI Technologist program specializes in one of the most advanced diagnostic tools in healthcare, and the Surgical Technologist program provides crucial operating room skills and procedures.

Their programs are structured around the needs of the healthcare industry, emphasizing real-world experiences and problem-solving skills essential for success. Graduates of AMG Medical Institute are highly sought after by employers for their comprehensive training, technical proficiency, and readiness to contribute to the fast-paced and ever-changing healthcare environment.

Visit their website to learn more: https://www.amgmedicalinstitute.com/

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, so does the demand for highly skilled professionals. At AMG Medical Institute, they are dedicated to empowering the next generation of healthcare workers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to excel. If you are considering a career in Ultrasound Sonography, MRI Technology, or Surgical Technology, look no further than AMG Medical Institute  where your future in healthcare begins. Visit their New Jersey campus or their website to learn more about their programs and how they can help you achieve your career goals.

AMG Medical Institute, located in Bloomfield, New Jersey , is at the forefront of healthcare education. Accredited and recognized for its excellence, AMG offers comprehensive training programs that prepare students for successful careers in various healthcare fields. With a focus on Ultrasound Sonography, MRI Technologist, and Surgical Technologist programs, AMG Medical Institute is dedicated to providing quality education that meets the evolving needs of the healthcare industry.

Contact:

Brian Budier

[email protected]

(973) 221-4490

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SOURCE AMG Medical Institute
STOCKHOLM , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ASSA ABLOY has signed an agreement to acquire Nomadix and Global Reach, leading US and UK based providers of Wi-Fi access and engagement platform solutions for the hospitality and commercial real estate industry. The companies offer a comprehensive tech platform of hardware, software and analytics tools to securely connect and engage with customers and devices via Wi-Fi networks.

"I am very pleased to welcome Nomadix and Global Reach into the ASSA ABLOY Group. This acquisition is an exciting technological addition to the ASSA ABLOY Group and will reinforce our current offering within the hospitality business, and provide complementary growth opportunities," says Nico Delvaux , President and CEO of ASSA ABLOY.

"Nomadix and Global Reach are excellent additions to Global Solutions and will with their strong technical expertise expand our portfolio and end-to-end offering for our hospitality business and adjacent verticals. I look forward to working with the experienced teams to continue the successful journey," says Stephanie Ordan , Executive Vice President and Head of Global Technologies business unit Global Solutions.

Nomadix and Global Reach were founded in 1998 and have some 120 employees. The main offices are located in Los Angeles and London . Nomadix and Global Reach operate as two separate entities under a central top management and ownership, and will be part of Global Solutions business area Hospitality.

Sales for 2023 amounted to about MUSD 30 (approx. MSEK 300) with a strong EBIT margin. The acquisition will be accretive to EPS from the start.

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close during the second quarter of 2024.

For more information, please contact:

Nico Delvaux , President and CEO, tel. no: +46 8 506 485 82

Erik Pieder, CFO and Executive Vice President, tel. no: +46 8 506 485 72

Bjorn Tibell, Head of Investor Relations, tel. no: +46 70 275 67 68, e-mail: [email protected]

About ASSA ABLOY

The ASSA ABLOY Group is the global leader in access solutions. The Group operates worldwide with 61,000 employees and sales of SEK 141 billion . The Group has leading positions in areas such as efficient door openings, trusted identities and entrance automation. ASSA ABLOY's innovations enable safe, secure and convenient access to physical and digital places. Every day, we help billions of people experience a more open world.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/assa-abloy/r/assa-abloy-acquires-nomadix-and-global-reach-in-the-usa-and-uk,c3953078

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/7333/3953078/2698920.pdf Press release (PDF) https://news.cision.com/assa-abloy/i/assa-abloy-logo-door,c3283638 ASSA ABLOY logo door

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SOURCE ASSA ABLOY
GREEN BAY, Wis., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Associated Banc-Corp (NYSE: ASB) today announced it expects to release first quarter 2024 financial results on Thursday, April 25, 2024 , after market close. The Company also expects to host a conference call for investors and analysts at 4:00 p.m. Central Time (CT) on the same day.

Interested parties can access the live webcast of the call through the Investor Relations section of the Company's website, http://investor.associatedbank.com. Parties may also dial into the call at 877-407-8037 (domestic) or 201-689-8037 (international) and request the Associated Banc-Corp first quarter 2024 earnings call. The financial tables and an accompanying slide presentation are expected to be available on the Company's website just prior to the call. An audio archive of the webcast is expected to be available on the Company's website approximately fifteen minutes after the call is over.

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 press release 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 | [email protected]

Media Contact: Marilka Velez

Senior Vice President | Senior Director of Marketing

920-491-7518 | [email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/associated-banc-corp-to-announce-first-quarter-2024-earnings-and-hold-conference-call-on-april-25-2024-302101568.html

SOURCE Associated Banc-Corp
BEIJING , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Autohome Inc. (NYSE: ATHM; HKEX: 2518) ("Autohome" or the "Company"), the leading online destination for automobile consumers in China , today issued its 2023 Environmental, Social and Governance ("ESG") report.

The report outlines Autohome's comprehensive long-term ESG strategy, progress it has made in key areas including corporate governance, product responsibility, responsible management practices, talent development, sustainable operations, and impactful social welfare initiatives.

Mr. Quan Long , Chairman of Autohome, commented, "We remain committed to building and supporting a nationwide ecosystem that empowers environmentally conscious car buying. Through continuous innovation across the entire value chain, we are leading the automobile industry towards a sustainable, healthy, and resilient future."

To view the report in full, please visit the website of investor relations of the Company or access the report at: https://ir.autohome.com.cn/static-files/77b703d1-56ed-4a5a-b316-ded50930955c

About Autohome Inc.

Autohome Inc. (NYSE: ATHM; HKEX: 2518) is the leading online destination for automobile consumers in China. Its mission is to engage, educate and inform consumers about everything auto. Autohome provides occupationally generated content, professionally generated content, user-generated content, and AI-generated content, a comprehensive automobile library, and extensive automobile listing information to automobile consumers, covering the entire car purchase and ownership cycle. The ability to reach a large and engaged user base of automobile consumers has made Autohome a preferred platform for automakers and dealers to conduct their advertising campaigns. Further, the Company's dealer subscription and advertising services allow dealers to market their inventory and services through Autohome's platform, extending the reach of their physical showrooms to potentially millions of internet users in China and generating sales leads for them. The Company offers sales leads, data analysis, and marketing services to assist automakers and dealers with improving their efficiency and facilitating transactions. Autohome operates its " Autohome Mall ," a full-service online transaction platform, to facilitate transactions for automakers and dealers. Further, through its websites and mobile applications, it also provides other value-added services, including auto financing, auto insurance, used car transactions, and aftermarket services. For further information, please visit www.autohome.com.cn.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will", "expects", "anticipates", "future", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates" and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Autohome's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Autohome's filings with the SEC and announcements on the website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and Autohome does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China :

Autohome Inc.

Investor Relations

Sterling Song

Investor Relations Director

Tel: +86-10-5985-7483

E-mail: [email protected]

Christensen China Limited

Suri Cheng

Tel: +86-185-0060-8364

E-mail: [email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/autohome-inc-issues-2023-esg-report-302100733.html

SOURCE Autohome Inc.
Brand Development Gains Steam as Leading Coffee Franchise Continues its Growth Momentum + Enters a New State

LAKE GENEVA, Wis. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii , a leading coffee franchise renowned for its premium sourcing of Hawaiian coffees and unforgettable cafes, announces it is bringing a location to Lake Geneva , signifying the brand's entrance in the state of Wisconsin . This location is part of a larger multi-unit agreement that was originally for Florida , but is now strategically expanding to other states. Bad Ass Coffee is slated to open its doors to the Lake Geneva community early 2025.

Leading coffee franchise gains steam and builds on its growth momentum as it announces its Wisconsin debut.

Behind the expansion into Wisconsin is Marquee Coffee, LLC, a group of business partners from Naples, FL , and Chicago, IL. The group signed the biggest multi-unit deal in Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii history in 2022 to bring 20 stores to Southwest Florida , which was revised in 2023 to include select markets where Chicagoans travel and own second homes. Marquee Coffee quickly identified the growth potential in Lake Geneva , which is one of the most popular vacation and second home destinations for Chicagoans. Lake Geneva follows the successful opening of Marquee Coffee's first location in November 2023 , across from the beach on Naples's "Miracle Mile." Marquee Coffee's overall goal is opening the rest of their stores within the next seven years.

"Since signing our franchise agreement, our experience with Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii has been nothing short of remarkable," said Ardel McKenna of Marquee Coffee, LLC. "After opening our Naples Miracle Mile store, we knew we needed to bring this premium Hawaiian coffee to more people. Expanding in the Midwest allows us to bring our 'ohana close to home and to where Chicagoans love to spend time. Bad Ass Coffee is one in a million, and I've fallen in love with the product  and now more Midwest locals can experience the same Aloha spirit and products that we have."

Multi-unit growth continues to play a key role in Bad Ass Coffee's franchise expansion strategy as more than 70% of the system is now comprised of multi-unit operators. The news of Bad Ass Coffee's Wisconsin debut comes on the heels of several multi-unit development agreements in Las Vegas and the greater Phoenix -area. Riding the momentous growth wave, Bad Ass Coffee's franchise opportunity is attracting multi-unit operators looking to expand their portfolios.

"Ardel and his team's dedication to the brand and excitement in expanding across the country is exactly what we look for in franchise partners," said Scott Snyder , CEO of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii . "As we expand our brand presence in the Midwest, his industry expertise will help Bad Ass Coffee live out its mission of delivering quality customer experience while honoring our Hawaiian heritage. I have no doubt that the Lake Geneva location will succeed with the Marquee Coffee group at its helm."

With rapid national expansion underway, the brand is currently supporting aggressive growth in the Southwest and Southeast markets. Bad Ass Coffee provides a development support system , including teams, technology and tools to help identify the right territories for expansion, plus expertise in financing, real estate, and construction management, to assist franchisees and multi-unit operators.

The success of Bad Ass Coffee has not gone unnoticed. The brand ranked on QSR's 2023 40/40 List as one of America's hottest emerging fast casual brands and also landed on the prestigious 2023 Inc 5000 ranking. According to Bad Ass Coffee's 2023 FDD, the top 50% of stores saw an average net sale of more than $1 million , with the average of the top 25% exceeding $1.2 million *.

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was born on the Big Island of Hawaii in 1989 with the dream of sharing American-grown, premium Hawaiian coffee with customers everywhere. In addition to premium coffee from the famous Kona region of the Big Island , Bad Ass Coffee also sources from Kauai and Maui . Beyond premium Hawaiian coffees, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii serves up a full menu of popular blended drinks, signature lattes, cold brews, teas, innovative foods with a Hawaiian twist, and branded merchandise.

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii is looking to partner with qualified and engaged individuals seeking multi-unit opportunities. The brand offers an affordable, highly scalable opportunity with strong profit potential. Franchisees can expect a total investment range between $454,200  920,500*. As International Franchise Association VetFran members, veteran franchisees who join will receive a $10,000 discount* off the initial franchise fee.

For more information on Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii franchise opportunities, visit badasscoffeefranchise.com or call 833-205-2224.

*Source: 2023 FDD  Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii

About Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was born on the Big Island of Hawai'i in 1989 and is dedicated to sharing premium Hawaiian coffees "with a kick" from the Hawaiian Islands through 30-plus U.S. franchise locations  with 100+ additional shops in various stages of development. Today, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii stores also serve popular blended drinks, teas, food, along with other international premium coffees and sell popular branded merchandise with exceptional service and the Aloha Spirit. Bad Ass Coffees are available in franchise stores, online and will soon be available through grocery, hospitality, and specialty retail channels. The Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii brand and franchise is owned by Royal Aloha Franchise Company, LLC. For more information, visit badasscoffee.com and connect on Facebook and Instagram @badasscoffeeofhawaii . Franchise information is available at badasscoffeefranchise.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bad-ass-coffee-says-aloha-to-wisconsin-set-to-debut-in-lake-geneva-as-part-of-multi-state-development-agreement-302100513.html
Block 216's sustainability efforts honored with top certification for green buildings

PORTLAND, Ore. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 13 th, Block 216 was awarded LEED Gold by the US Green Building Council. For developer BPM and GBD Architects, creating a green and sustainable building was a priority from the beginning of the project.

The tower itself was designed with a mechanical system which will reduce energy usage by an estimated 13% along with enhanced indoor air quality strategies, which provide 30% increased ventilation rates above the LEED minimum. Further, the eco-roof holds enough water to account for the 90th percentile of storm events and strategically reduces run-off in the city's sewers. Additionally, the roof and grounds are planted with adaptive vegetation, which sequester carbon, and irrigation throughout the property is 42% less than the average building of this size.

Even small finishes were made with the environment in mind, including low emitting materials (such as composite woods, paints, and flooring), alongside the installation of products with Environmental Product Declarations.

"Taking in the mountain views from the top of Block 216, you can't help but think about nature and the environment," comments developer Walter Bowen , "We wanted to ensure that this majesty is kept intact for Portlanders of generations to come. Reducing our own environmental impact and creating a sustainable future for Portland was a requirement for this project from the start."

Located conveniently near the streetcar and buslines, Block 216's accessibility in Portland reduces the development's carbon footprint. The tower is also connected to Portland's bike network and provides ample bike storage for patrons and employees.

This groundbreaking development was awarded 2024 Development of the Year by the Oregon and Southwest Washington Commercial Associations of Brokers.

Since opening last Fall, Block 216 has welcomed guests from around the globe at the Ritz-Carlton, Portland , which opened to much acclaim from local, national and international media, and new owners at the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Portland. Portland's premier luxury jewelers have also celebrated the opening of Mahler Jewelers. The ground-floor food gallery, Flock, will open before the summer, where local chefs will showcase the best of Portland cuisine.

About Block 216

Block 216 is one of the largest private sector developments in downtown Portland , and the most complex construction project in Portland's history. On the outside, it is a striking presence that will transform the way the world views the city. The building will house The Ritz-Carlton, Portland , a 251-room hotel, as well as The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Portland , with 132 Residences and Penthouses, plus underground parking, ground floor luxury retail space, FLOCK food gallery, 11,000 sq. ft. of elegant event and meeting spaces, and 165,000 sq. ft. of class A office space. Block 216 is conveniently positioned in the heart of Portland's burgeoning West End , fostering immediate access to all that the city has to offer. Block 216 is positioned only steps away from Portland's best high-end dining, bars, boutiques, art galleries, and more.

Media Contact:

Matthew Demma

[email protected]

781.258.3008

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/block-216-receives-leed-gold-certification-302101213.html

SOURCE BPM Real Estate Group
Christian Lampone is set to introduce Central Bark's unique approach to whole dog care and enrichment in Doylestown, PA and across Northern Philadelphia suburbs

DOYLESTOWN, Pa. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Central Bark, the premier whole dog care franchise and industry pioneer, is proud to announce the signing of its largest multi-unit franchise agreement to date in Doylestown, PA , and the surrounding North Philadelphia suburbs.

Central Bark Signs Largest Multi-Unit Franchise Deal to Date for 5 New Locations Across North Philadelphia and Suburbs

Leading Central Bark's growth in North Philadelphia is Christian Lampone , who just executed the multi-unit development agreement. For Lampone, the journey into franchising was more than just a career move  it was a realization of a lifelong dream fueled by a love for dogs and a desire to provide a much-needed service to his community.

"I have always wanted my own business; I always knew I wanted to own something," he said. "This opportunity with Central Bark is a combination of my passion and investment strategy and my plans for the future. I have always loved dogs and wanted to work with them, and there is a huge need for it right now."

With pet ownership soaring during the pandemic, Lampone recognized an untapped market demand for quality dog day care and secure overnight stays for pets, especially as their owners returned to the workplace. Lampone, who has a personal affinity for large breed dogs and a commitment to animal welfare, saw Central Bark as more than just a lucrative business opportunity; for him, it's also a platform to advocate for rescue dogs and provide them with nurturing environments where they can thrive. He looks forward to bringing five locations to Doylestown and the North Philadelphia suburbs in the coming years, with the first opening anticipated before the end of 2024.

Lampone is currently a User Experience Design Team Lead for a pharmaceutical marketing agency and feels his previous career experience will serve him well in business ownership, as will his extensive experience in owning and looking after dogs. However, he also looks forward to the support provided by the corporate team for his first foray into business ownership.

"I've had dogs for 30 years now and I'm very familiar with training them and caring for them," said Lampone. "But, running a whole dog care business is something completely different and to have a franchise like Central Bark behind me with the level of support and training they provide, well, that is immeasurable."

For more than 20 years, Central Bark has drawn in dogs and their owners across the country to experience its Whole Dog Care, which combines Central Bark's industry-leading dog day care expertise with the latest in canine behavioral science. Enrichment Care provides a healthy and balanced blend of exercise, social group play, learning, rest, and "TLC" to help dogs be healthy, happy, calm, and well-rounded members of the family. Furthermore, Central Bark also offers dog boarding, baths, grooming, a boutique retail market, training, and more.

"Christian is an amazing addition to our rapidly growing Central Bark franchise family," said Tim Weiderhoft, Ed.D., CFE, chief development officer for Central Bark. "With one new Central Bark at a time, we are changing the dog care landscape across the country. We are different, special, and better for a reason and that is resonating with new franchisees and our customers alike. And we could not be happier that Christian has decided to join Central Bark and bring our unique approach to Doylestown and the North Philadelphia suburbs. Given his incredible background and work ethic, we know he will be extremely successful."

Central Bark typically features approximately 6,000  7,000 square feet of indoor space plus more than 2,000 square-feet of outdoor play area. Activities include small flexible playgroups, group skills work, rest periods, and personalized one-on-one enrichment sessions. Enrichment add-ons give pups the extra attention they love and the freedom to use their senses, safely exploring with their instincts as they engage with interactive toys, puzzles, and games.

About Central Bark:

The Central Bark franchise system was founded in 2003 and now operates under the name Barkley Ventures Franchising, LLC. For more than 20 years, the brand has grown to nearly 40 locations across more than a dozen states. The company has hosted over two million dog visits. Central Bark participates in VetFran, the International Franchise Association's (IFA) veteran program, and offers a franchise fee discount to qualifying veterans. Central Bark is also an IFA MinorityFran participant. For more information about franchising with Central Bark, visit centralbarkfranchising.com or call 866-799-2275.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/central-bark-signs-largest-multi-unit-franchise-deal-to-date-for-five-new-locations-across-north-philadelphia-and-suburbs-302100643.html

SOURCE Central Bark
White Hall Vineyards is a spectacular farm winery located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Whitehall Virginia, about 14 miles northwest of Charlottesville. Ideal elevation for the production of Vinifera grapes in the region on its abundant 48 acres of estate vineyards. White Hall Vineyards is also a part of the Monticello AVA, the wine region that was recently voted the best wine region in the USA. A beautiful and relaxing destination for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. This classic stone manor home was architecturally designed and handcrafted in 1992. It is situated on a commanding knoll which pro- vides sweeping panoramic views of the encircling mountains of The Shenandoah National Park. Square footage is the combined sqft of residences and winery. There are numerous outbuildings and the sqft for those is not listed, please look at the GIS for a complete picture of the property. This property is being offered in 3 different ways, this listing is for the property in its entirety. The winery on 172 acres is also offered at 8.5 million OR the main residence along with 37 acres at 5.5 million. Both of the smaller offers are contingent on county approval.

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LONDON , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - CGI (TSX: GIB.A) (NYSE: GIB), one of the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world, has been selected by the UK Government's Cabinet Office as a Strategic Delivery Partner for the Cabinet Office Digital (CO Digital) department. The five-year contract is valued at $162 million (100 million).

Under the contract, CGI will partner with the CO Digital function to deliver a range of digital, data and technology services and products in support of Cabinet Office Business Units, enabling their digital transformation.

Michael Hill , Chief Digital Information Officer for the Cabinet Office said, "We are looking forward to working with CGI and its ecosystem partners as our Strategic Delivery Partner. Through the capabilities that they will bring us we will be able to continue to drive delivery, innovation and value that will help us enable the Cabinet Office of the future."

Tara McGeehan , President, CGI in the UK & Australia added, "CGI has a demonstrable track record of successfully partnering with the UK Government and supporting critical national infrastructure across the UK , and the world. We look forward to growing our relationship with CO Digital as their Strategic Delivery Partner, and helping them to drive consistency, innovation and value, while facilitating the growth of digital capabilities for the Cabinet Office as a whole."

CGI provides access to an ecosystem of partners, including small and medium sized enterprises, who can collaborate with CGI to deliver niche services through this contract in support of the Cabinet Office. The contract also includes the delivery of social value activities, such as hosting digital skills training courses for armed forces Veterans and women in tech events.

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 CA$14.30 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cgi-appointed-as-strategic-delivery-partner-to-uk-cabinet-office-for-digital-transformation-302100520.html

SOURCE CGI Inc.
HYDERABAD, India and MUNICH, Germany , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cyient, a global Intelligent Engineering, and Technology Solutions company, is announcing a strategic partnership with Deutsche Aircraft, a German original equipment manufacturer (OEM) located in Weling, close to Munich . Within the scope of this partnership, the companies will collaborate on the detailed design for manufacturing (DFM) of the rear fuselage section for the 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop aircraft.

Designed to operate along regional routes, the D328eco is a highly fuel-efficient aircraft that is an upgraded version of the Dornier 328 series. With an increased passenger capacity, the aircraft requires specific structural updates. The D328eco is expected to revolutionize regional air travel and become the benchmark of aviation with its advanced features, unmatched versatility, and operational flexibility in the most challenging environments to connect regions and people.

"We are excited about our collaboration with Deutsche Aircraft to support the development of the D328eco aircraft. This partnership underscores Cyient's commitment to delivering innovative engineering solutions in the aerospace sector. Our expertise in the aircraft design and development life cycle will play a crucial role in developing the D328eco. Together, we look forward to driving advancements in aviation technology and contributing to the success of this transformative project," said Karthikeyan Natarajan , Executive Director and CEO of Cyient.

"We are thrilled to be working with Cyient," remarks Dave Jackson , Chief Executive Officer at Deutsche Aircraft. "Their vast experience in the Aerospace & Defence industry was one of the key factors in contracting them to be responsible for the design of the rear fuselage section as part of our D328eco aircraft development programme."

Maximilian Fahr , Vice President of Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft, also expressed his enthusiasm about the company's partnership with Cyient, stating, "This agreement represents a strong commitment to India . This new partnership with Cyient will enable Deutsche Aircraft to work with the best in the field and further enhance the development of the D328eco in a competitive setting."

About Cyient

Cyient (Estd: 1991, NSE: CYIENT) partners with over 300 customers, including 40% of the top 100 global innovators, to deliver intelligent engineering and technology solutions for creating a digital, autonomous, and sustainable future. As a company, Cyient is committed to designing a culturally inclusive, socially responsible, and environmentally sustainable Tomorrow Together with our stakeholders.

For more information, please visit www.cyient.com

Follow news about the company at @Cyient

Press Contacts for Cyient:

Gowtham Uyalla

Kaizzen PR

E-Mail: [email protected]

Phalguna Hari jandhyala

Cyient

E-Mail: [email protected]

About Deutsche Aircraft

Deutsche Aircraft is a German aircraft manufacturer built on the heritage of aviation pioneers that continues to propel the aviation industry forward with innovative solutions. Supported by a highly skilled and passionate team of international engineers and aviation experts, Deutsche Aircraft is developing the most advanced regional aircraft on the market: the D328eco. As type certificate holder and service partner for existing D328 (both prop and jet) operators worldwide, the company is uniquely positioned to complement the existing fleet with this next-generation aircraft.

Deutsche Aircraft employs the latest technologies and best practices to ensure the highest levels of reliability, efficiency and sustainability for the D328eco. As a strategic partner for the sustainable development of regional air transport, Deutsche Aircraft is working with key players in the industry to achieve climate-neutral flights. www.deutscheaircraft.com

Press Contact for Deutsche Aircraft

Christian Purschel

Head of Communications

E-mail: [email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cyient-partners-with-deutsche-aircraft-for-the-design-of-rear-fuselage-section-of-the-d328eco-302101036.html

SOURCE Cyient
TORONTO , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Denison Mines Corp. ("Denison") (TSX: DML) (NYSE American: DNN) is proud to announce the signing of a Sustainable Communities Investment Agreement (the "Agreement") with the municipalities of the Northern Village of Beauval , the Northern Village of Ile-a-la Crosse, the Northern Hamlet of Jans Bay , and the Northern Hamlet of Cole Bay (the "Communities"). View PDF version

The Agreement acknowledges that the municipalities are located in northern Saskatchewan and have a desire to work together to develop a regional approach that enables social, economic and cultural revitalization. Denison is focused on developing its flagship Wheeler River project (the "Project") in a sustainable manner that (i) supports Community-led objectives and initiatives and (ii) empowers the Communities to develop their capacity to take advantage of development opportunities and create a positive legacy beyond the lifespan of the Project.

Mayor of Beauval , Nick Daigneault , stated, "The Communities are very excited to enter into the Agreement with Denison, who fully understands our need to sustain our municipalities in Northern Saskatchewan for many years to come. Each of our communities have limited pools of money to tap into and there is only so much tax revenue our communities can garner to tackle both the communities' aging infrastructure as well as important community needs. By partnering with industry, our communities will be able to develop an additional fund that will grow over time and provide us with much needed financial support to see community projects become a reality. Denison has stepped-up to support our communities and I'm hopeful that the Agreement will lead the way as a shining example of how industry can work with our Northern Saskatchewan municipalities. We are grateful for the discussions we have had with Denison's leadership team and the fact that they share, and are excited about, our vision for prosperous and sustainable communities."

David Cates , President & CEO of Denison, further added, "This Agreement builds upon a foundation of trust and respect established between Denison and the municipalities of Beauval and Ile-a-la Crosse with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in 2018 and 2017, respectively. As Wheeler River has progressed over the last several years, we have listened to, understood, and responded to the interests of the Communities. This Agreement uniquely reflects the Communities' own vision for industry to support a positive legacy of sustainable northern communities. We thank the Communities' leaders and constituents for their support and trust in Denison, and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship."

The Agreement with the Communities establishes commitments for funding to support community development initiatives, with consideration towards contributing to the current and future economic prosperity and sustainability of the Communities by promoting economic development and investments in capital projects, job creation and training, housing, education, and other initiatives. The parties to the Agreement also acknowledge a common goal of facilitating qualified businesses and workers in benefitting from opportunities associated with the Project.

In consideration for contributions to the Communities' initiatives, the Communities have provided their consent and support for the Project and have committed, amongst other things, to support all regulatory approvals issued for the Project related to exploration, evaluation, development, operation, reclamation, and closure activities.

About the Municipalities of Beauval , Ile-a-la Crosse, Cole Bay , Jans Bay

The Municipality of Beauval - " Beautiful Valley " - is located in Northern Saskatchewan overlooking the lovely Beaver River Valley providing a striking view of the river and surrounding nature. The Beaver River offers world-class pickerel fishing, and nearby lakes stocked with abundant Trout and Northern Pike makes Beauval an ideal destination for anglers. The community has a proud history of culture, language, and heritage. In history, Beauval was a trading post location along the Churchill River trade route for the Hudson 's Bay Company, this route is still travelled via canoe by history buffs and avid outdoors people for the pristine scenes and memorable nature experience with historic influence.

The Northern Village of Ile-a-la Crosse is located in north-central Saskatchewan at the base of a peninsula extending into Lac Ile-a-la Crosse. The village is the second oldest community in northern Saskatchewan , established in 1776. In 1846, Roman Catholic Missionaries arrived and constructed the Chateau St. Jean Mission and a neighbouring school. The Sisters of Charity of the Roman Catholic Church was initiated soon after and still plays a prominent role within the community. This community is the birthplace of Louis Riel Sr . and was home to Sister Margaret Riel , sister of Louis Riel . The Village has a population of 1,425 (2021 Census) and prominent Aboriginal architect Douglas Cardinal designed Rossignol Elementary School.

The Northern Hamlet of Jans Bay is located in northwest Saskatchewan along the southeast shore of Canoe Lake . Situated west of Beauval on Hwy 965 , the community is within close proximity to its sister communities of Cole Bay and Canoe Narrows . This friendly community is surrounded by forest, lakes, and wildlife.

The Northern Hamlet of Cole Bay is located 60 km west of Beauval on the southwest shore of Canoe Lake at the junction of Highway 903 and 965, and is within close proximity to Jans Bay and Canoe Narrows .

About Wheeler River

Wheeler River is the largest undeveloped uranium project in the infrastructure-rich eastern portion of the Athabasca Basin region, in northern Saskatchewan . The project is host to the high-grade Phoenix and Gryphon uranium deposits, discovered by Denison in 2008 and 2014, respectively, and is a joint venture between Denison (90% and operator) and JCU (Canada) Exploration Company Limited ("JCU", 10%). In August 2023 , Denison filed a technical report summarizing the results of (i) the feasibility study completed for In-Situ Recovery ("ISR") mining of the high-grade Phoenix uranium deposit and (ii) a cost update to the 2018 Pre-Feasibility Study for conventional underground mining of the basement-hosted Gryphon uranium deposit. Based on the respective studies, both deposits have the potential to be competitive with the lowest cost uranium mining operations in the world. Permitting efforts for the planned Phoenix ISR operation commenced in 2019 and have advanced significantly, with licensing in progress and a draft Environmental Impact Statement submitted for regulatory and public review in October 2022 . More information is available in the technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Wheeler River Project Athabasca Basin , Saskatchewan, Canada " dated August 8, 2023 with an effective date of June 23, 2023 , a copy of which is available on Denison's website and under its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml.

About Denison

Denison is a uranium exploration and development company with interests focused in the Athabasca Basin region of northern Saskatchewan, Canada . In addition to Denison's effective 95% interest in its flagship Wheeler River Uranium Project, Denison's interests in Saskatchewan include a 22.5% ownership interest in the McClean Lake Joint Venture, which comprises several uranium deposits and the McClean Lake uranium mill that is contracted to process the ore from the Cigar Lake mine under a toll milling agreement, plus a 25.17% interest in the Midwest Main and Midwest A deposits and a 69.35% interest in the Tthe Heldeth Tue ("THT") and Huskie deposits on the Waterbury Lake property. The Midwest Main, Midwest A, THT and Huskie deposits are located within 20 kilometres of the McClean Lake mill.

Through its 50% ownership of JCU, Denison holds additional interests in various uranium project joint ventures in Canada , including the Millennium project (JCU, 30.099%), the Kiggavik project (JCU, 33.8118%) and Christie Lake (JCU, 34.4508%).

Denison's exploration portfolio includes further interests in properties covering ~385,000 hectares in the Athabasca Basin region.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this press release constitutes "forward-looking information", within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and similar Canadian legislation concerning the business, operations and financial performance and condition of Denison. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes", or the negatives and / or variations of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur", "be achieved" or "has the potential to".

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information pertaining to Denison's current intentions and objectives with respect to, and commitments set forth in, the Agreement; the results of, and estimates, assumptions and projections provided in, the technical report for Wheeler River and the interpretations and expectations with respect thereto; development and expansion plans and objectives for the Project; and expectations regarding its joint venture ownership interests and the continuity of its agreements with its partners and third parties.

Forward looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made, and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Denison to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For example, Denison may decide or otherwise be required to discontinue work at the Project if it is unable to maintain or otherwise secure the necessary resources (such as capital funding, regulatory approvals, etc.) and this could impact Denison's ability to meet the objectives stated in this press release, or the objectives of Denison and any one of the Communities could become misaligned. Denison believes that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable but there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and may differ materially from those anticipated in this forward looking information. For a discussion in respect of risks and other factors that could influence forward-looking events, please refer to the "Risk Factors" in Denison's Management's Discussion & Analysis dated February 29, 2024 available under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca and under Form 6-K available at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml. These factors are not, and should not be construed as, being exhaustive.

Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking information and the assumptions made with respect thereto speaks only as of the date of this press release. Denison does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information after the date of this press release to conform such information to actual results or to changes in its expectations except as otherwise required by applicable legislation.

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SOURCE Denison Mines Corp.
American Century Investments' impact investing study shows appeal declines although impact investors are still willing to give up some returns

KANSAS CITY, Mo. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In the seventh impact investing survey by the $240 billion * global asset manager American Century Investments, U.S. investors buck international trends as the only surveyed country where a growing number of respondents are willing to sacrifice returns to create a positive impact. Yet, the appeal of impact investing has declined in each country surveyed, including the U.S. The survey results offer multiple reasons for this decline in appeal, including market conditions, concerns about greenwashing and the sustainability backlash. Survey results go back to 2016 in the United States , 2019 in the U.K. , 2020 in Germany , 2021 in Australia and 2022 in Singapore .

40% of U.S. respondents are willing to sacrifice returns in order to create a positive impact.

U.S. investors more willing than ever to make rational and balanced sacrifices

40% of U.S. respondents are willing to sacrifice returns in order to create a positive impact, up 4% from the previous survey and the highest share among U.S. respondents since the question was first asked in the 2020 survey. This is a larger share of respondents who are willing to sacrifice returns than in the UK (33%), Germany (31%) and Australia (29%). Only Singapore (47%) has a larger share of respondents who are willing to sacrifice returns, although that number has declined 7% since last year. Overall, 67% of interested investors would sacrifice up to 10% of returns to create a positive impact, with 6-10% the most common range. A willingness to sacrifice 16% or more was by far the smallest share of respondents who knew how much they would forgo for a positive impact on society.

"In its earliest forms, impact investing often accepted lower expected returns to have a bigger impact, but our impact investment strategies emphasize sustainability-related attributes or outcomes in addition to delivering a financial return. Identifying impact-related factors that could affect a company's ability to stay competitive over the long term has the potential to add to returns," said Sarah Bratton Hughes , senior vice president and head of sustainable investing for American Century Investments. "A willingness to give up as much as 10% of an expected return shows that impact investors expect to earn competitive returns and are making rational choices to realize an impact emphasis in addition to a financial return."

Appeal of impact investing has declined in every country since last survey

Since the previous survey, the appeal of impact investing has declined in Australia (-6%), Singapore (-5%), the UK (-5%), Germany (-4%) and the U.S. (-1%). This decline is also seen across generations, where appeal among Baby Boomers (-8%) has seen the greatest decline, followed by Gen Z (-7%), Gen X (-5%) and Millennials (-1%).

"In the seven years of impact investing studies we've done, it's unique to see such uniform results across nations and ages in a single question, like we see this year with the decline of the appeal of impact investing. Even though the decline holds for all groups, the reasons are more varied," said Bratton Hughes.

Economy and geopolitics among reasons for the decline in appeal

Market conditions have a negative impact on the willingness to allocate to impact investing for roughly 3 in 10 investors in each of the five countries, although in Singapore , respondents were more likely to say market conditions positively impacted their willingness to make these investments. In the U.S., greenwashing and the sustainability backlash both influenced interest in impact investing at higher levels than the prior year, but not for respondents in the other countries.

Health care surpasses the environment to become the top cause overall

For the first time since 2020, health care is the top concern overall. The environment fell to second place after holding a lead over health care in 2020 (4%), 2021 (5%) and 2022 (1%).

As an asset manager with an impact on global health, American Century Investments has a unique perspective on sustainable investing. More than 40% of American Century dividends go to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, a world-class biomedical research organization with an equity stake in American Century. American Century Investments has generated more than $2 billion in dividends for the Stowers Institute since 2000.

"Through our unique relationship with the Stowers Institute, we generate an impact on global health while helping clients achieve financial success. As a foundational research organization, the Stowers Institute takes a long-term view and commitment to research and innovation, which has helped to shape our culture and naturally aligns with integrating sustainability into our investment practices to help us deliver better long-term, risk-adjusted returns for our clients," said Bratton Hughes .

Survey methodology

The 2023 survey was conducted with representative samples of adults 18 years of age and older. There were 1,007 participants in the U.S. survey, 1,004 in the U.K. survey, 1,003 in Germany , 1,005 in Australia and 1,002 in Singapore . The study was fielded using Big Village's Online CARAVAN Omnibus Survey, with the results weighted by age, sex, geographic region, race and education to ensure reliable and accurate representations of the adult populations in each country. For the purposes of this survey, millennials were defined as those aged 25 to 40, Gen Xers were defined as those aged 41 to 56, and baby boomers were defined as those aged 57 to 75.

About American Century Investments

American Century Investments is a leading global asset manager focused on delivering investment results and building long-term client relationships while supporting breakthrough medical research. Founded in 1958, American Century Investments' 1,400 employees serve financial professionals, institutions, corporations and individual investors from offices in Kansas City, Missouri ; New York ; Los Angeles ; Santa Clara, California ; Portland, Oregon ; London ; Frankfurt, Germany ; Hong Kong ; and Sydney . Jonathan S. Thomas is president and chief executive officer, and Victor Zhang serves as chief investment officer. Delivering investment results to clients enables American Century Investments to distribute over 40% of its dividends to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, a 500-person, nonprofit basic biomedical research organization. The Institute owns more than 40% of American Century Investments and has received dividend payments of more than $2 billion since 2000. For more information about American Century Investments, visit www.americancentury.com .

*Assets under supervision as of 3/8/2024.

2024 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved

Contact: Justin Emily Wills

(816) 340-4062

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SOURCE American Century Investments
EditCo is focused on the development and manufacture of highly optimized CRISPR guide RNA designs and edited cells for the global cell biology and gene therapy research markets

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- EditCo Bio, Inc. announced that it has launched its business with the acquisition of Synthego's engineered cell solutions and enhanced guide RNA business. Borne from Synthego's cell engineering expertise, EditCo is uniquely positioned to deliver edited cells and highly optimized guide RNA designs for the rapidly expanding CRISPR market. EditCo will operate as an independent business with financing and support from life sciences investment firm Telegraph Hill Partners.

EditCo will offer researchers simple one-click access to high-quality engineered cells with guaranteed edits in their desired targets, minimizing time and effort spent in experiments. By ushering in unprecedented predictability in biology, EditCo lays the foundation for rapid outcomes in basic biology and cell and gene therapy research. As an independent entity, EditCo will have the flexibility to invest in and scale up its capabilities to best meet the needs of its global customers. The company plans to launch new products and services, expand commercial operations and continue to build on its leadership position in cell engineering.

EditCo will be led by former Synthego President and Chief Operating Officer, John Tan , who has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. Travis Maures , PhD, former Chief Technology Officer of Synthego will be Chief Scientific Officer of EditCo. "EditCo begins its journey with the benefit of significant investment in our cell engineering capabilities while part of Synthego," said John Tan. "Our proven products and manufacturing operations enable us to immediately serve customers with industry-leading CRISPR solutions and world-class customer support."

"CRISPR continues to demonstrate its power to accelerate progress across the drug discovery pipeline and will ultimately lead to more and better validated drugs entering the clinic," said Travis Maures . "EditCo's products and manufacturing operations have already been proven within Synthego, enabling us to immediately initiate commercial operations and deliver validated, customer-focused solutions that provide industry-leading gene editing efficacy and reproducibility."

As an independent company, EditCo will establish unique partnerships, invest in new product innovation, and pursue strategic investment opportunities. To support its operations and growth initiatives, EditCo has closed a financing from Telegraph Hill Partners. This funding strengthens the company's ability to create long-term value and align with the unique customer needs across both basic research and preclinical phases of CRISPR-based therapy development.

EditCo is based in Redwood City, California and can be found online at www.EditCo.bio .

About EditCo Bio, Inc.

EditCo Bio is a pioneer in the development of cells as reagents. The company began as the gene editing business at Synthego and, through that experience, has gained a deeper understanding of the critical role that high-quality, easily accessible reagents play in advancing scientific discoveries. EditCo is bringing the same ease of ordering, reliability, and rapid delivery to the biology of engineered cells. This new direction promises to transform how engineered cells are accessed and utilized in research, making them as efficacious and as reproducible as traditional reagents.

About Telegraph Hill Partners

Telegraph Hill Partners, founded in 2001 and based in San Francisco, CA , invests in life science, medical technology, and healthcare companies. For more information, please see www.telegraphhillpartners.com .

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SOURCE Synthego
DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Em-tec, part of PSG and Dover (NYSE: DOV), announced the introduction of the new SonoTT aQuila System, its latest innovation in the field of non-invasive blood flow measurement for life-sustaining, extracorporeal treatments.

The SonoTT aQuila Flow Measurement System is designed to advance the safety and quality of flow-measurement applications during a variety of medical treatments, such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), the use of a heart-lung machine (HLM), apheresis, (hemo)dialysis, and distal perfusion. Extracorporeal applications where blood that was removed from the body and is oxygenated often provide important cardiac support to keep a patient alive. Consequently, it is necessary to adapt liquid-bearing life-sustaining applications to the needs of the respective therapy and patient.

"We are excited to launch the new SonoTT aQuila System, which represents the next-generation technology that allows us to better serve our existing and new customers and open up strategically important markets," said Christian Steer , Director of Product Management at Em-tec.

The features of the SonoTT aQuila System allow:

Early detection of complications or anomalies that may occur during an extracorporeal procedure, including clogged filters and inadequate blood flow;

Quicker detection of changes in the current flow rate that may indicate deterioration of the circulation condition; and

Recording of blood flow measurements that can be transferred to an electronic patient file for easy access to detailed patient documentation.

Stand-alone sensor technology, such as that offered by Em-tec's new SonoTT aQuila System, can be flexibly used for the independent measurement and display of blood flow values, resulting in enhanced safety and quality in a wide variety of treatment methods in which blood flow monitoring is vital.

The innovative SonoTT aQuila System was developed at the Finning site in Germany . It is produced exclusively there and supports the company's position as an attractive innovation hub and versatile high-tech employer in the region.

About Em-tec:

Em-tec offers technologies and products for measuring, pumping and dosing liquids in medical and other demanding applications. The company's core competence is the non-invasive flow measurement using the ultrasonic transit time method. Em-tec products are mainly used for critical applications in tubing systems of life-sustaining medical devices and applications with the highest hygienic requirements. The company is known for excellent engineering competence and on-site manufacturing in Germany . With a high level of customer service and long-term experience in quality management and regulatory affairs, Em-tec is an established and trusted partner. Em-tec, a brand of PSG, a Dover company, is headquartered in Finning, Germany . To learn more about Em-tec, please visit em-tec.com.

About PSG:

PSG is the global pump, metering and dispensing-solution expert, enabling the safe and efficient transfer of critical and valuable fluids that require optimal performance and reliability in applications where it matters most. Additionally, PSG is a leading provider of flow meters designed to reduce waste and downtime while accurately measuring, monitoring and controlling the distribution of fluids. Headquartered in Oakbrook Terrace, IL , USA, PSG is comprised of several world-class brands, including Abaque, All-Flo, Almatec, Blackmer, Ebsray, em-tec, Griswold, Hydro, Malema, Mouvex, Neptune, PSG Biotech, Quantex, Quattroflow and Wilden. PSG products are manufactured on three continents  North America , Europe and Asia  in state-of-the-art facilities that practice lean manufacturing and are ISO-certified. PSG is part of the Pumps & Process Solutions segment of Dover Corporation. For additional information on PSG, please visit psgdover.com. PSG: Where Innovation Flows.

About Dover:

Dover is a diversified global manufacturer and solutions provider with annual revenue of over $8 billion . We deliver innovative equipment and components, consumable supplies, aftermarket parts, software and digital solutions, and support services through five operating segments: Engineered Products, Clean Energy & Fueling, Imaging & Identification, Pumps & Process Solutions and Climate & Sustainability Technologies. Dover combines global scale with operational agility to lead the markets we serve. Recognized for our entrepreneurial approach for over 65 years, our team of over 25,000 employees takes an ownership mindset, collaborating with customers to redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois , Dover trades on the New York Stock Exchange under "DOV." Additional information is available at dovercorporation.com.

PSG Contact:

Christopher Walsh

(331) 277-8137

[email protected]

Dover Media Contact:

Adrian Sakowicz, VP, Communications

(630) 743-5039

[email protected]

Dover Investor Contact:

Jack Dickens , Senior Director, Investor Relations

(630) 743-2566

[email protected]

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SOURCE Dover
MONTREAL and CALGARY, AB , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - CMC Electronics and Hexagon's Autonomy & Positioning division, which includes leading brand Hexagon | NovAtel, make a significant advancement in the field of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) positioning technology for aviation with the development of a leading-edge multi-constellation, multi-frequency (MCMF) GNSS platform. Merging CMC's certification expertise with industry-leading digital signal processing from Hexagon | NovAtel this new MCMF GNSS platform provided by CMC is engineered to tackle tomorrow's challenges. With a focus on enhanced detection of spoofing and jamming, lighter weight and a smaller form factor, this innovative solution will shape the trajectory of GNSS technology for the future.

GNSS signals underpin the safety and reliability of all aviation. Jamming and spoofing of GNSS signals is no longer confined to military conflicts; users in the commercial realm are being affected all over the world. As the aviation industry embraces the era of MCMF GNSS positioning and assured positioning, navigation and timing (APNT), CMC Electronics and Hexagon | NovAtel stand as the best-in-class partners, ready to deliver solutions with unparalleled reliability and dependability for the commercial aviation, military, and unmanned aerial systems markets.

Nick Chalkiadakis , Business Unit Director, Navigation Systems, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "Our partnership with NovAtel has been a long-lasting, collaborative, and mutually supportive relationship and together, we are not just advancing but pioneering the future of aviation GNSS technology. As leaders in the industry, we are setting a new standard of excellence by introducing a new era of high-precision, high-performance GNSS solutions to the market."

CMC's next-generation receiver, certified to the rigorous DO-254 Level A standards, seamlessly integrates cutting-edge GNSS measurement technology from Hexagon | NovAtel. "We have been working on and delivering safety-critical positioning technology for 25 years, since the field's inception, and much of that work has been side-by-side with CMC." says Stig Pedersen , Executive VP of Aerospace & Defense, "We're thrilled to provide our expertise to partners advancing the future of their industries, empowering them with best-in-class positioning technology."

CMC Electronics (cmcelectronics.ca) has achieved an international reputation for innovation and excellence in the design and manufacture of innovative cockpit systems integration, avionics, display solutions and high-performance microelectronics for the military and commercial aviation markets. Based in Montreal, Canada , the company also has facilities in the USA serving its customers worldwide. Learn more at cmcelectronics.ca

Hexagon's Autonomy & Positioning division is a global technology leader, pioneering end-to-end solutions for assured positioning for land, sea, and air. Its solutions power intelligent positioning ecosystems in vital industries and safety-of-life applications, enabling the advancement of the Autonomous X (cars, UAVs, industrial vehicles, trains, vessels, and more). The division includes leading brands NovAtel, Veripos, AutonomouStuff and Antcom.

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SOURCE CMC Electronics
New, more aggressive front design creates a strong, wide stance

Redesigned dashboard features a panoramic curved display that seamlessly combines driver information cluster and infotainment

Standard wireless Apple CarPlay  and Android Auto 

New advanced safety technologies

Exclusive functional enhancements to rugged XRT model

NEW YORK , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai today unveiled an enhanced 2025 Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle in a world debut at the New York International Auto Show and online at https://www.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/vehicles/2025-tucson-and-santa-cruz. Brad Arnold , senior design manager of exteriors at Hyundai Design North America, walked the audience through the design upgrades. Jose Munoz , president and Global COO of Hyundai Motor Company and president and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America discussed the importance of the refreshed Santa Cruz and Tucson SUV in Hyundai's lineup. Hyundai has a strong history of upgrading its advanced technologies and Olabisi Boyle , senior vice president of product planning and mobility strategy for Hyundai Motor North America provided insights on how these features will exceed new Santa Cruz customers' expectations.

Santa Cruz offers redesigned exterior and interior surfaces along with new infotainment and additional advanced driver assistance systems. The 2025 Santa Cruz, designed in California , arrives at Hyundai dealerships this summer.

"The development goal for freshening Santa Cruz was to give it an even bolder, stronger design. We also wanted Santa Cruz to be more capable, and the available XRT trim delivers with all-terrain tires, front tow hooks and improved off-road capability. Customers are going to appreciate all the new design details and enhancements inside and out. Santa Cruz is a true sport adventure vehicle," said Munoz.

"More vertical lines and redesigned headlamps bookend a menacing new grille incorporating larger chambers. These changes give the 2025 Santa Cruz a more planted, robust stance," said Arnold. "On the Santa Cruz XRT, we've augmented the model's off-road capability by increasing the approach angle, adding all-terrain tires and unique wrench-inspired alloy wheels."

2025 Santa Cruz New Enhancements and Available Features

XRT Trim (Specific Changes)

New XRT-exclusive front and rear bumper fascia designs

New XRT-exclusive front grille

Front tow hooks

Wrench-inspired XRT-specific 18-inch wheels

245 / 60 R 18 all-terrain tires

Increased approach angle

XRT trim adds Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor i

XRT logo debossing on front upper seatbacks

Exterior Changes

New front fascia

New grille

New wheel designs

New daytime running lights

Interior Changes

In keeping with the more capable exterior, the upgraded Santa Cruz interior provides a high-tech image combined with increased functionality. The new panoramic curved display houses an optional 12.3-inch driver information cluster and available 12.3-inch audio-video navigation (AVN) system for an immersive digital experience. In addition, the center stack controls are more ergonomic, with additional physical switchgear for frequently used audio and HVAC functions. The strong horizontal and vertical shapes of the new instrument panel are consistent with Santa Cruz's refreshed exterior changes while offering additional storage including a new shelf above the glovebox.

New instrument panel

New panoramic curved display houses an optional 12.3-inch driver information cluster and available 12.3-inch audio-video navigation (AVN) system

New audio/video/navigation and HVAC controls with switches and buttons

New steering wheel

New air vents

Rear seat center armrest with two cupholders

New Infotainment/Convenience Technology

Wireless Apple CarPlay  / Android Auto  integration on all trim levels

/ Android Auto integration on all trim levels Over the Air (OTA) software and firmware update support added ii

USB-Type-C ports

Bluelink+ Connected Car technology iii

Hyundai Pay in-car payment system iv

Integrated Memory System

Digital Key 2 Touch

Fingerprint scanner

New towing drive mode (2.5L turbocharged powertrain on Limited and XRT only)

Safety Technology

Forward Attention Warning (FAW)

New Color Choices

Rockwood Green and Canyon Red exterior color choices

exterior color choices Medium Gray seating surfaces

Powertrain

Powerful and Efficient Powertrains

Santa Cruz offers two powerful, flexible and efficient powertrains. The standard powertrain is a 2.5L direct-injected in-line four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and 181 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine couples to an eight-speed automatic transmission for quick acceleration and superb efficiency. Santa Cruz also offers a 2.5L direct-injected turbocharged engine with 281 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque linked to an eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). This DCT includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual shifting control. The 2.5L turbocharged powertrain adds a new tow mode for the 2025 model year.

Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission

The eight-speed transmission for the standard 2.5-liter engine provides quick and crisp shifts for an engaging and efficient driving experience. A multi-disc and individually controlled hydraulic channel torque converter improves responsiveness by expanding the direct connection band, while a downsized oil pump and double ball bearings minimize frictional losses.

HTRAC All-Wheel-Drive

Both 2.5L four-cylinder and 2.5L four-cylinder turbo models offer HTRAC all-wheel drive capability for complete confidence when pursuing adventures of all kinds or for that extra peace of mind when driving in an unexpected snowfall. HTRAC AWD was developed as a multi-mode system, providing an electronic, variable-torque-split clutch with active torque control between the front and rear axles. The Sport setting gives Santa Cruz a more agile feel by sending additional torque to the rear wheels, for a sporty, dynamic experience. This system has a wide range of torque distribution variability, tuned for conditions such as straight-line acceleration, medium- and high-speed cornering, and hill starts. For those customers who like to tow their weekend gear with them, the 2.5L 4-cylinder is rated to tow 3,500 lbs. and the 2.5L Turbo AWD model boasts a generous 5,000 lbs. of towing capability.

Hyundai Motor Americav

Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company's Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S. , including its North American headquarters in California , the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (in development in Georgia ), and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai's 835 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a recent economic impact report . For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com .

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

i Surround View Monitor (SVM) is a parking support system. SVM cannot completely eliminate blind spots, may not detect every object and does not warn of moving objects. Always check surroundings before moving vehicle. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.

Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) assists driver in changing lanes by providing a live view of the blind spots on either side of the vehicle and an audible alert if another vehicle is detected. Turn signal must be activated and other system limitations apply. Do not rely exclusively on BVM. It is the driver's responsibility to be aware of the surroundings and ensure it is clear before changing lanes or directions. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.

ii Requires active Bluelink subscription.

iii Bluelink+ is available to purchasers and lessees of 2024 and newer Bluelink-equipped Hyundai models. Not available on all models and trims. Bluelink+ requires an active Bluelink account subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Fees apply for map and multimedia over-the-air (OTA) updates after an initial three-year period of complementary updates. Three-year term starts from the new vehicle date of first use. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Bluelink services rely on digital wireless telecommunications technology outside of Hyundai's control. Bluelink is dependent on 4G LTE cellular networks controlled and maintained by third-party wireless carriers. If and when these networks change and/or discontinue service, or the underlying technology required to support Bluelink becomes obsolete, then the connected services will not work and Hyundai will be forced to cancel impacted subscription services.

iv Hyundai Pay is presently only available on select Hyundai models. Requires MyHyundai mobile app and an active Bluelink account, subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. For eligible vehicles, Hyundai Pay is included with Bluelink subscription at no additional cost. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Valid Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit card must be linked to MyHyundai account with Bluelink. Credit card eligibility and terms are determined by the card issuing bank. Accepted by participating merchants for off-street reserved parking only. Availability of such services may change over time and may vary by vehicle and geographic location. Additional merchant terms and fees may apply. Participating merchants may not operate in all locations. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Visit owners.hyundaiusa.com for more information.

v Towing capability varies by configuration. See the towing guide in the Owner's Manual for proper use and additional information.

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SOURCE Hyundai Motor America
VAUGHAN, ON , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - GFL Environmental Inc. (NYSE: GFL) (TSX: GFL) ("GFL" or the "Company") today announced that it will release its 2024 first quarter financial results after the market closes on Wednesday May 1, 2024 and will host an investor conference call related to this release on Thursday May 2, 2024 at 8:30 am Eastern Time .

A live audio webcast of the conference call can be accessed by logging onto the Company's Investors page at investors.gflenv.com or by clicking here or listeners may access the call toll-free by dialing 1-833-950-0062 in Canada or 1-833-470-1428 in the United States (access code: 726645) approximately 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

The Company encourages participants who will be dialing in to pre-register for the conference call using the following link: https://www.netroadshow.com/events/login?show=cb680a2e&confId=62828. Callers who pre-register will be given a conference access code and PIN to gain immediate access to the call and bypass the live operator on the day of the call.

About GFL

GFL, headquartered in Vaughan, Ontario , is the fourth largest diversified environmental services company in North America , providing a comprehensive line of solid waste management, liquid waste management and soil remediation services through its platform of facilities throughout Canada and in more than half of the U.S. states. Across its organization, GFL has a workforce of more than 20,000 employees.

For more information:

Patrick Dovigi

+1 905-326-0101

[email protected]

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SOURCE GFL Environmental Inc.
The new class will be recognized alongside winners of the Federal 100 Awards at GovExec's Evening of Honors Hosted on April 24

WASHINGTON , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- GovExec, the market-leading sales and marketing intelligence company for government leaders and contractors, unveiled today the 2024 Hall of Fame cohort, which the company will recognize during its annual Evening of Honors Gala hosted for the first time at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. , on April 24, 2024 .

Building on Government Executive's more than 50-year history covering the government and public sector, the Government Hall of Fame has become a staple of its mission to acknowledge the current and former officials and industry stakeholders leading its evolution. Ranging from groundbreaking civil rights and defense leaders to renowned NASA and FEMA veterans, this year's ceremony will honor:

Mary Frances Berry - A historian, academician, and civil rights activist, Berry served as the first Black woman assistant secretary for education in the Health, Education, and Welfare Department under President Jimmy Carter in 1977. In 1980, Carter appointed her to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights , where she remained until 2004.

- A historian, academician, and civil rights activist, Berry served as the first Black woman assistant secretary for education in the Health, Education, and under President in 1977. In 1980, Carter appointed her to the , where she remained until 2004. Mary McLeod Bethune - Among her many accomplishments, Mary McLeod Bethune served as an advisor to President Calvin Coolidge , was later appointed to the National Child Welfare Commission by President Herbert Hoover , and was one of the first directors of a federal agency and the highest ranking Black woman in government when she served as director of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration under President Franklin D. Roosevelt .

Ann E. Dunwoody - Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody's 38-year military career marked many firsts. Dunwoody was the first woman to lead a battalion for the 82nd Airborne Division , the first woman to serve as general at Fort Bragg and the first woman in the history of the U.S. to achieve a four-star general rank. She received the Distinguished Service Medal and the Defense Superior Service Medal before retiring in 2012.

- Gen. 38-year military career marked many firsts. Dunwoody was the first woman to lead a battalion for the , the first woman to serve as general at and the first woman in the history of the to achieve a four-star general rank. She received the Distinguished Service Medal and the Defense Superior Service Medal before retiring in 2012. Gregory L. Robinson - Throughout his 33 years with NASA, Gregory Robinson is renowned for turning around the James Webb Space Telescope program into a 21st-century success. His leadership earned him recognition, including TIME Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2022 and the TIME100 Impact Award as well as Federal Employee of the Year before retiring in 2022.

- Throughout his 33 years with NASA, is renowned for turning around the James Webb Space Telescope program into a 21st-century success. His leadership earned him recognition, including 100 Most Influential People of 2022 and the TIME100 Impact Award as well as Federal Employee of the Year before retiring in 2022. James Lee Witt - Former FEMA Director James Lee Witt was first tapped by President Clinton to lead the agency, where he managed 348 presidentially declared disasters. Following his tenure, he helped advise leaders through major events such as Hurricane Katrina, the BP oil spill, and Hurricane Sandy.

"This year's Government Hall of Fame inductees are prime examples of the powerful change public servants can instill. Their expertise and dedication saw our country through monumental milestones across social movements, military transformations, scientific advancements, and disaster responses. We are excited to pay tribute to these incredible achievements and the impacts that they have had on our country," said Executive Editor Tanya Ballard Brown .

In addition to the Government Hall of Fame's 2024 class, the Fed 100 Awards will be presented at GovExec's Evening of Honors Gala. Coordinated by Nextgov/FCW, the Fed 100 celebrates a range of leaders who have pushed government operations forward through innovative tech approaches.

Sponsors of the Evening of Honors Gala include AT&T as the Government Hall of Fame Founding Underwriter, SAIC, Google for Government, Appian, Ciena, Comcast Business, Increditek, Carahsoft, ServiceNow, AWS, Salesforce, Presidio Federal, PegaSystems, MITRE, WAEPA, Accenture Federal Services, IBM, HashiCorp, Rubrik, McKinsey, ASRC Federal, Virtru, WWT, Intel, Maximus, Zscaler, Steampunk, Medallia, GovTribe, Socure, Credence LLC, Workday, GDIT, Oracle, Dell, Akima, Efrus, and Verkada.

For full inductee bios and more information on the Evening of Honors Gala, visit GovExecHonors.com.

About GovExec:

GovExec's data and insights set the standard for depth, accuracy, and impact for government leaders and contractors. GovExec provides data-driven strategic sales and marketing intelligence solutions that accelerate revenue growth to fuel market success. The platform is powered by the largest and most sophisticated database in the public sector, reaching over 3.3 million government influencers each month.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/govexec-announces-2024-government-hall-of-fame-inductees-302101377.html

SOURCE GovExec
Graves Chapel in Madison County hosted a St. Patricks Day celebration on Sunday, March 17, featuring a lively program of traditional Irish hymns. The chapel welcomed Raymond A. White, senior music specialist with the Library of Congress, as a special guest to lead the musical event. The Rev. Brad Jackson, music director at Piedmont Episcopal Church in Madison, served as musical accompanist. Ethan Wagner, director of the Madison Choral Society, played the cello for the event.

A classically trained musician and vocalist, White has worked at the Library of Congress for nearly 40 years. He holds degrees in history, music, musicology, and library science, and is the curator of the Librarys Gershwin Collection and a specialist in the work of classical composers George Frideric Handel and Franz Liszt. White has extensive expertise in the study of opera and choral music. He also served as minister of music at McLean Baptist Church in Northern Virginia for many years.

During the St. Patricks Day celebration, White led the singing of cherished hymns such as Be Thou My Vision, The King of Love My Shepard Is, and Christ Be Beside Me. Following the sing-along, which featured several vocalists from the Madison Choral Society, the chapel hosted a potluck Irish feast.

In April, the Madison Choral Society will present Hymns Triumphant, a symphonic choral suite based on familiar traditional hymns. The performances will take place on Friday, April 12, at 7:30 p.m. at Orange Baptist Church in Orange, and on Sunday, April 14, at 4 p.m. at Mt. Carmel Church in Haywood.
BREINIGSVILLE, Pa. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Haydenfilms teamed up with Chris Saraceno , a businessman, real estate investor, speaker, author, and leader, as he created a series to guide others to a successful life. He's now making those ideas available and more accessible than ever through his online "The Theory of 5 Personal Growth Series."

The series, launched in December 2023 , is an online video program created with the help of Haydenfilms, where Saraceno breaks down how to be a successful person through faith, staying fit, growing in relationships, healthy habits, financial philosophies, and more. Each video session is 30 minutes and done in a fireside chat style, covering the content of Saraceno's book, workbook, and some of his personal stories behind it. All the videos are accessible through Haydenfilms' companion company, Cemboo.

"I've been fortunate to build a very successful life in business and with my family," Saraceno says. "But it wasn't luck that got me here. It was strategies, mindful tactics, and conscious efforts to surround myself with men and women who excel in these areas. Now, I feel an obligation to share this philosophy with others."

Haydenfilms founder, Hayden Craddolph , also admires Saraceno's drive and work ethic. "He's a truly exceptional person," Craddolph says. "We are so proud to work with him and were so happy to bring all of these companies together in this collaborative project."

A vice president and partner in the Kelly Automotive Group, Saraceno has been a partner in 14 different automotive franchises in Pennsylvania and Florida and founder of the online community DealerElite.com. He's been a featured speaker and author for the launch team of General Motors EV1, and he is one of the three original Saturn Corporation board members where he helped influence a customer-focused approach to selling vehicles now and in the future.

Saraceno is also the author of The Theory of 5, a book and workbook that explains the lifetime process of selecting mentors in the five most significant areas of a person's life: spirituality, relationships, parenting, business/finance, and health/fitness.

"Success isn't stumbled upon or wished for," Saraceno says. "It's a process to get there and it's built on consistency and awareness. I want to support people in living their best life. It's a new year, new you. It's your time."

The Personal Growth Series starts as low as $25 for all the online video content, up to $99 for the video content, plus a Q&A with Saraceno himself.

For more information about the Personal Growth Series and The Theory of 5, visit theoryof5.com.

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SOURCE Haydenfilms Institute
ROCKVILLE, Md. and SUZHOU, China , March 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Innovent Biologics, Inc. ("Innovent") (HKEX: 01801), a world-class biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and commercializes high quality medicines for the treatment of oncology, metabolic, autoimmune, ophthalmology and other major diseases, announces that the first participant has been successfully dosed with IBI310 (anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody) in combination with sintilimab (PD-1 inhibitor) in a randomized, controlled, multicenter Phase 3 clinical trial (Neoshot), for resectable MSI-H/dMMR[1] colon cancer (stage cT4 or cN+) neoadjuvant therapy.

Neoshot is the first Phase 3 clinical trial (NCT05890742) in China to investigate MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer neoadjuvant immunotherapy. The study will evaluate the safety and efficacy of IBI310 combined with sintilimab for neoadjuvant therapy, compared with adjuvant chemotherapy after radical surgery for MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer. The primary endpoints are pathologic complete response (pCR) rate and event-free survival (EFS).

Previously, in a randomized, controlled, multicenter Phase 1b study for neoadjuvant therapy in patients with resectable MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer, the pCR rate in the IBI310+sintilimab group was significantly higher as compared with the sintilimab monotherapy group. No subjects in the IBI310+sintilimab group were inoperable due to adverse reactions, and there was no additional safety risk. Data from this Phase 1b trial will be published at an upcoming medical conference or in an academic journal in future.

The Principal Investigator of the Neoshot study, Prof. Ruihua Xu from Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, stated, "At present, R0 resection for T4 and/or N+ stage colon cancer patients remain a significant challenge, along with risks of extensive trauma and poor prognosis. The results of the FOxTROT study suggested that neoadjuvant chemotherapy is not effective in MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer, and the pCR rate is only about 5%[2]. Therefore, effective neoadjuvant treatment scheme is urgently needed to reduce preoperative staging, decrease tumor burden, narrow the scope of radical resection, and increase R0 resection rate, so as to improve long-term prognosis. IBI310 combined with sintilimab is expected to be the first neoadjuvant immunotherapy in China for resectable MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer, which has demonstrated encouraging efficacy and a good tolerance profile in a Phase 1b study. I look forward to working together with other investigators in Neoshot to obtain high-quality clinical data, in support of potentially providing a more effective treatment option for patients with MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer in China ."

Dr. Zhou Hui , Senior Vice President of Innovent, stated, "There is a huge unmet clinical need for neoadjuvant therapy of resectable MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer in China . The results of NICHE study showed that postoperative pCR rate after neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced colon cancer can be well translated into survival benefits[3]. In the Phase 1b study, IBI310 combined with sintilimab achieved excellent efficacy and safety results. We are pleased that the Phase 3 clinical study of Neoshot has completed the first patient dosing, and we are looking forward to the positive results generating from this study to provide a more ideal treatment option for MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer patients in China ."

About Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the second most common malignant tumor and the fourth leading cause of cancer death in China . It is estimated that in 2022, there are more than 510,000 new cases and approximately 240,000 fatal cases[4]. In addition, the incidence of colorectal cancer has continued to rise over the past 15 years[5]. MSI-H/dMMR is more common in localized colorectal cancer (10-15%) compared to metastatic colorectal cancer (5%)[6]. T4 and N2 are important prognostic indicators for MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer. Studies have shown that the 3-year disease-free survival rate of MSI-H/dMMR stage III colon cancer patients (T4 and/or N2) is about 60-65%[7],[8]. Therefore, the perioperative treatment for stage II-III MSI-H/dMMR colon cancer patients needs to be continually improved.

About IBI310

IBI310 is a fully human monoclonal antibody injection independently developed by Innovent. IBI310 can specifically bind cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), thereby blocking CTLA-4 mediated T cell inhibition, promoting T cell activation and proliferation, improving tumor immune response, and achieving anti-tumor effects.

About Sintilimab

Sintilimab, marketed as TYVYT (sintilimab injection) in China , is a PD-1 immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal antibody co-developed by Innovent and Eli Lilly and Company. Sintilimab is a type of immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal antibody, which binds to PD-1 molecules on the surface of T-cells, blocks the PD-1 / PD-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway, and reactivates T-cells to kill cancer cells[9].

In China , sintilimab has been approved and included in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) for seven indications. The updated NRDL reimbursement scope of TYVYT (sintilimab injection) includes:

For the treatment of relapsed or refractory classic Hodgkin's lymphoma after two lines or later of systemic chemotherapy;

For the first-line treatment of unresectable locally advanced or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer lacking EGFR or ALK driver gene mutations;

For the treatment of patients with EGFR-mutated locally advanced or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer who progressed after EGFR-TKI therapy;

For the first-line treatment of unresectable locally advanced or metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer;

For the first-line treatment of unresectable or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma with no prior systematic treatment;

For the first-line treatment of unresectable locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma;

For the first-line treatment of unresectable locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma.

In addition, two clinical studies of sintilimab have met their primary endpoints:

Phase 2 study of sintilimab monotherapy as second-line treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma;

Phase 3 study of sintilimab monotherapy as second-line treatment for squamous NSCLC with disease progression following platinum-based chemotherapy.

Disclaimer: The above two indications are still under clinical study, which have not been approved in China . Innovent does not recommend any off-label usage.

About Innovent

Innovent is a leading biopharmaceutical company founded in 2011 with the mission to provide high-quality biologics that are affordable to all. The company discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes innovative medicines that treat some of the most intractable diseases. Its pioneering therapies treat cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic, autoimmune and eye diseases. Innovent has 10 products in the market, 3 new drug applications under the NMPA review, 5 assets in Phase 3 or pivotal clinical trials and 18 more molecules in early clinical stage. Innovent partners with over 30 global healthcare leaders, including Eli Lilly, Roche, Sanofi, Adimab, Incyte and MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Guided by the motto, "Start with Integrity, Succeed through Action," Innovent maintains the highest standard of industry practices and works collaboratively to advance the biopharmaceutical industry so that first-rate pharmaceutical drugs can become widely accessible. For more information, visit www.innoventbio.com, or follow Innovent on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Note: TYVYT (sintilimab injection) is not an approved product in the United States . BYVASDA (bevacizumab biosimilar injection), SULINNO, and HALPRYZA (rituximab biosimilar injection) are not approved products in the United States . Pemazyre (pemigatinib oral inhibitor, Incyte Corporation). Pemazyre was discovered by Incyte Corporation and licensed to Innovent for development and commercialization in Mainland China, Hong Kong , Macau and Taiwan . CYRAMZA (ramucirumab, Eli Lilly). Cyramza was discovered by Eli Lilly and licensed to Innovent for commercialization in Mainland China. Retsevmo (selpercatinib, Eli Lilly). Retsevmo was discovered by Eli Lilly and licensed to Innovent for commercialization in Mainland China.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. The words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to Innovent, are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend to update these forward-looking statements regularly.

These forward-looking statements are based on the existing beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates, projections and understandings of the management of the Company with respect to future events at the time these statements are made. These statements are not a guarantee of future developments and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond the Company's control and are difficult to predict. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of future changes or developments in our business, the Company's competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions.

The Company, the Directors and the employees of the Company assume (a) no obligation to correct or update the forward-looking statements contained in this site; and (b) no liability in the event that any of the forward-looking statements does not materialise or turn out to be incorrect.

Reference

[1] MSI-H/dMMR =microsatellite instability-high or mismatch repair-deficient [2] Morton D, Seymour M, Magill L, Handley K, Glasbey J, Glimelius B, Palmer A, Seligmann J, Laurberg S, Murakami K, West N, Quirke P, Gray R; FOxTROT Collaborative Group. Preoperative Chemotherapy for Operable Colon Cancer : Mature Results of an International Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Oncol. 2023 Mar 10;41(8):1541-1552. [3] M. Chalabi , et al. Neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibition in locally advanced MMR-deficient colon cancer: The NICHE-2 study. LBA7 2022 ESMO Congress [4] https://gco.iarc.fr/today/home. [5] Zheng R, Zeng H, Zhang X. et al. The epidemiology of colorectal cancer in China . Global Health Journal 2018;2(3):8-30. [6] AndreT, de Gramont A., Vernerey D. et al. Adjuvant Fluorouracil, Leucovorin, and Oxaliplatin in Stage II to III Colon Cancer : Updated 10-Year Survival and Outcomes According to BRAF Mutation and Mismatch Repair Status of the MOSAIC Study. J. Clin . Oncol. 2015;33(35), 4176-4187. [7] Sinicrope F A, Huebner L J, Laurent-Puig P . et al. Relative contribution of clinical and molecular features to outcome within low and high risk T and N groups in stage III colon cancer (CC). J. Clin . Oncol. 2019;37(15):3520. [8] Sinicrope F A, Mahoney M R, Smyrk T C. et al. Prognostic Impact of Deficient DNA Mismatch Repair in Patients With Stage III Colon Cancer From a Randomized Trial of FOLFOX-Based Adjuvant Chemotherapy. J. Clin . Oncol. 2013;31(29):3664-3672. [9] Wang J, Fei K, Jing H, et al. Durable blockade of PD-1 signaling links preclinical efficacy of sintilimab to its clinical benefit. mAbs 2019;11(8): 1443-1451.

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SOURCE Innovent Biologics
New online tool provides an easy-to-use solution to create 100% sequence-verified clonal DNA

CORALVILLE, Iowa , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --Global genomics solutions provider Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT) is expanding its gene synthesis offerings with a new custom vector onboarding tool. The easy-to-use solution is designed for researchers who want to skip in-house cloning steps and move quickly into functional studies with 100% sequence-verified clonal DNA. By using IDT's new gene synthesis custom vector onboarding tool, researchers can submit their vector sequence via IDT's website without having to contact a sales representative, eliminating unnecessary back-and-forth emails.

To see IDT's new custom vector onboarding tool, visit https://www.idtdna.com/genes.

Customers receive the following benefits by onboarding their vector with IDT:

Time savings : Once onboarded, IDT does the cloning and customers can order fully cloned genes in their vector at anytime.

: Once onboarded, IDT does the cloning and customers can order fully cloned genes in their vector at anytime. No recurring fees : After a one-time cost of $500 for onboarding a custom vector, customers will not incur additional fees when ordering inserts in their custom vector, and no minimum order is required.

: After a one-time cost of for onboarding a custom vector, customers will not incur additional fees when ordering inserts in their custom vector, and no minimum order is required. Confidentiality: All online ordering steps, including sequence entry, are secure and protected. Confidentiality is a high priority and IDT ensures your IP is safe.

"With gene synthesis accelerating research and propelling the design, build, test, and learn cycle that underpins innovations in synthetic biology, efficiency and speed are increasingly becoming more critical to researchers," said Sandy Ottensmann , VP/GM of Gene Writing and Editing at IDT. "We designed our new custom vector onboarding tool with this in mind, with the goal of enabling researchers to continue advancing their important experiments by equipping them with the solutions they need to rapidly develop at scale, at efficient costs."

IDT's new custom onboarding vector tool is the latest addition to IDT's broad synthetic biology portfolio, which is comprised of gene and gene fragment offerings. As a large-scale provider of synthetic DNA, IDT can make gene fragments between 125 bp to 3 kb and custom genes between 25 bp to 5 kb. Genes greater than 5 kb require custom quoting. Looking ahead to the second half of 2024, IDT plans to leverage its expanded U.S. -based synthetic biology manufacturing facility footprint to further enhance its gene synthesis portfolio with differentiated offerings.

About IDT

For more than 35 years, Integrated DNA Technologies, Inc. (IDT) has empowered genomics laboratories with an oligonucleotide manufacturing process unlike anyone else in the industry, featuring the most advanced synthesis, modification, purification, and quality control capabilities available. Since its founding in 1987, IDT has progressed from a leading oligo manufacturer to a genomics solutions provider supporting key application areas such as next generation sequencing, CRISPR genome editing, synthetic biology, digital PCR, and RNA interference. IDT manufactures products used by scientists researching many forms of cancer and most inherited and infectious diseases.

Seeking to fulfill its mission of accelerating the pace of genomics, IDT acquired Archer NGS Research Assays in December 2022 . When combined with its existing solutions, the expanded portfolio helps realize the shared vision of enabling researchers to rapidly move from the lab to life-changing advances.

IDT's infrastructure supports customers around the globe with its manufacturing headquarters situated in Coralville, Iowa , USA, with additional manufacturing sites in San Diego, California , USA; Boulder, Colorado , USA; Research Triangle Park, North Carolina , USA; Ann Arbor, Michigan , USA; Leuven, Belgium ; and Singapore.

IDT is proud to be part of Danaher. Danaher's science and technology leadership puts IDT's solutions at the forefront of the industry, so they can reach more people. Being part of Danaher means we can offer unparalleled breadth and depth of expertise and solutions to our customers.

Together with Danaher's other businesses across Biotechnology, Diagnostics and Life Sciences, we unlock the transformative potential of cutting-edge science and technology to improve billions of lives every day.

For more information about IDT, visit www.idtdna.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

Disclaimer: RUO  For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures. Unless otherwise agreed to in writing, IDT does not intend these products to be used in clinical applications and does not warrant their fitness or suitability for any clinical diagnostic use.

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SOURCE Integrated DNA Technologies
LOS ANGELES , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Judd Foundationa non-for-profit organization based in New York City and Marfa, Texas which preserves the work and legacy of artist Donald Juddtoday filed a federal lawsuit against reality television personality Kim Kardashian and Los Angeles -based design firm Clements Design over inauthentic furniture that Clements Design fabricated and sold to Ms. Kardashian for use in the office of her company, SKKN BY KIM.

In August 2022 , Ms. Kardashian posted a video (with more than 3.7 million views) to her personal YouTube channel, which featured knockoff Donald Judd Furniture, a company of Judd Foundation. The designs included two of Donald Judd's most renowned designs: La Mansana Table (two tables) and Chair 84 (numerous chairs) that Ms. Kardashian falsely attributed to being "Donald Judd." Following the press coverage of the video, on August 15, 2022 , Judd Foundation contacted Ms. Kardashian's representatives, who confirmed that the table and chairs were indeed fake. Clements Design knowingly fabricated and sold the fake designs. Judd Foundation's attempt to resolve this matter without litigation was met with delays and excuses from Ms. Kardashian and Clements Design. More than a year later, the video of Ms. Kardashian promoting fake furniture attributed to Donald Judd remains available on her YouTube page to millions of followers and the public at large.

Each authentic piece of Donald Judd furniture meets the exacting design, fabrication, and material specifications that Donald Judd established during his lifetime. The actions of Clements Design and Ms. Kardashianand their refusal to properly resolve this matter with Judd Foundationundermines Judd's legacy and impairs the Foundation's ability to control the quality and goodwill of his iconic designs.

"Donald Judd's furniture is an integral part of his legacy. As an artist's foundation, our primary mission is to protect and preserve his work," said Rainer Judd , President of Judd Foundation and daughter of the late artist. " Ms. Kardashian's furniture is irrefutably fake. The existence of inauthentic furniture undermines the integrity of his original work which includes specifications of design, craftsmanship, and materials. Today, Judd Foundation works directly with select fabricators to maintain the standards of quality he set for his furniture. This requires that all furniture that is made and sold with his name is made by Donald Judd Furniture."

"This case is about protecting the intellectual property rights of Judd Foundation, including its trademarks and copyrights," said Megan K. Bannigan, Partner at Debevoise & Plimpton and counsel to Judd Foundation. "The existence and promotion of fake Donald Judd furniture harms both consumers and Judd Foundation. The fake furniture has caused massive consumer confusion  with millions of Ms. Kardashian's followers being misled to believe that the furniture in Ms. Kardashian's office is real Donald Judd furniture. It also undermines Judd Foundation's ability to control the quality of the works created using Donald Judd's iconic designs and the goodwill that exists in those creations."

"If creators' works can simply be usurped with no repercussions and exploited by other people," added Ms. Judd , "what will be the protection for artists and designers to further create in the future?"

The complaint can be read here.

Judd Foundation is represented by Megan Bannigan of Debevoise & Plimpton, along with David Bernstein , Jared Kagan , Hannah Beattie , James Stramm , and Annie Seminara , and Rusty Selmont of Ervin Cohen & Jessup.

About Judd Foundation

Judd Foundation maintains and preserves Donald Judd's permanently installed living and working spaces, libraries, and archives in New York and Marfa, Texas . The Foundation promotes a wider understanding of Judd's artistic legacy by providing access to these spaces and resources and by developing scholarly and educational programs.

Judd Foundation is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

About Debevoise & Plimpton

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is a premier law firm with market-leading practices, a global perspective and strong New York roots. The Debevoise Intellectual Property Group is recognized by clients and adversaries alike as one of the strongest practices of its kind. Consistently placed in the top-tier by Chambers Global, the Intellectual Property Group enjoys a position of extraordinary prominence, described as "one of only a handful of practices in the United States unanimously hailed as among the very best" by World Trademark Review in 2024.

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SOURCE Judd Foundation
MISSISSAUGA, ON , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Maple Leaf Foods Inc. ("Maple Leaf Foods" or the "Company") (TSX: MFI) today announced that it has filed its 2024 Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Management Information Circular (the "Circular") with securities regulators.

The Annual Meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. The meeting is being hosted in a hybrid structure, meaning that shareholders may attend virtually by a live video webcast or in person at ThinkFood!, 6897 Financial Drive , Mississauga, Ontario , Canada.

Shareholders are encouraged to review the Circular as it contains important information about the Annual Meeting, including the election of directors, the appointment of the Company's auditor and the approval of the amendment to the Company's Amended and Restated Share Option Plan. In addition, the Circular provides a detailed description of Maple Leaf Foods' approach to governance and executive compensation.

The Company is again using "Notice and Access" to deliver the Circular and related meeting materials, including its 2023 Annual Financial Statements, by providing Shareholders with notice of availability and access to the materials online at www.mapleleaffoods.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Notice and Access is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to distribute these materials since it reduces printing, paper and postage.

Please see below for links to the Notice and Circular:

Management Information Circular

Notice and Access Letter

Shareholders are encouraged to cast their votes early by proxy and to check the Maple Leaf Foods website at www.mapleleaffoods.com for additional information about the Annual Meeting. Instructions for shareholders wishing to request paper copies of any of the meeting materials are included in the Notice.

About Maple Leaf Foods

Maple Leaf Foods Inc. ("Maple Leaf Foods") is a carbon neutral company with a vision to be the most sustainable protein company on earth, responsibly producing food products under leading brands including Maple Leaf, Maple Leaf Prime, Maple Leaf Natural Selections, Schneiders, Schneiders Country Naturals, Mina, Greenfield Natural Meat Co., Lightlife and Field Roast. Maple Leaf Foods employs approximately 13,500 people and does business in Canada , the U.S. and Asia . The company is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario , and its shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MFI).

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SOURCE Maple Leaf Foods Inc.
MILAN , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MTD (Medical Technology and Devices), a leading provider of medical technology solutions for self-care and professional use worldwide, announces the acquisition Ypsomed's pen needle and blood glucose monitoring (BGM) businesses. This strategic move solidifies MTD's position as a globally leading player in pen needle production and enhances its comprehensive solution portfolio for diabetes care.

MTD, the second largest manufacturer of pen needles globally, will incorporate in its operations the pen needle and BGMs portfolio from Ypsomed - a leading developer and manufacturer of injection and infusion systems for self-medication for 40 years. Recognizing the strong technologies and trademarks associated with Ypsomed's pen needle business, the combination of both companies' portfolios will ensure the long-term availability of a unique and innovative pen needle offering, manufactured exclusively in Europe , leveraging MTD's scale efficiencies.

Charles Bouaziz , CEO of MTD, expresses enthusiasm for the partnership with Ypsomed and the opportunities it brings. "This acquisition will enable us to accelerate growth and enter new strategic markets, leveraging a broader product portfolio combining the 6-bevels and click technologies from Ypsomed and MTD's thinnest and shortest 34G pen needle. We will integrate Ypsomed's pen needles operations and BGMs' commercialization into our European production and distribution sites, contributing to scale efficiencies and benefiting from our category expertise, says Charles Bouaziz , CEO of MTD.

"This acquisition  continues Bouaziz - enables MTD to open new, strategic markets, such as Germany , expand into high growth markets like China and India and strengthen our position in other important markets such as North America and France , reinforcing our commitment to supporting millions of diabetic patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals worldwide."

The closing of the transaction and thus the transfer of the business with pen needles and blood glucose monitoring systems is expected in summer 2024, after which the transition will begin, and is subject to customary conditions.

Medical Technology and Devices (MTD)

Medical Technology and Devices (MTD) is a leading medical technology group that designs, manufactures, and provides a comprehensive range of medical devices for self-care and professional use worldwide. Formed in 2018 from the merger of Pikdare and HTL Strefa, MTD has long-term and unique expertise in the development of medical sharps, home-use electromedical devices, and products of pharma self-care, distributing around 5 billion medical devices worldwide each year. Research and development are at the heart of the Group's commitment to providing healthcare professionals and individuals with increasingly innovative and safe products. MTD operates (directly or through local subsidiaries and distributors) in over 100 countries and has a state-of-the-art production system with four production plants in Europe ( Italy and Poland ). The Group, majority owned by Investindustrial and QuattroR SGR, employs around 1,700 people.

www.mtdglobal.com

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SOURCE MTD Medical Technology and Devices S.p.A.
WASHINGTON , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ --

News Advisory :

What: Satellite Media Tour (SMT) with Danielle Gershkovich (sister of WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich ) and Paul Beckett of The Wall Street Journal.

When: Thursday, March 28 (interview slots available starting at 8:30 am Eastern.)

Where: Originating from the National Press Club studios.

Booking Information : Contact Melanie Ierardi (202-662-7592 or [email protected]) to arrange a window.

News hook: Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich will reach a milestone of one year in a Russian prison on March 29 . In March 2023 , Evan was arrested by Russia security services, simply for doing his job as a journalist. He has been wrongfully detained for one year, falsely accused of espionage - a charge the US government and the Journal vehemently deny. His sister, Danielle, will talk about the family's experience since Evan's unjust arrest and how one year is a difficult reminder of the personal toll of his situation. Paul Beckett of The Wall Street Journal will provide the latest on Evan's case and the Journal's efforts to keep his story in the public eye.

BACKGROUND:

In March 2023 , Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was arrested by Russia while on a reporting trip and falsely accused of espionage, making him the first American journalist detained in Russia on such a charge since the Cold War. Both the US government and the Journal vehemently deny the allegation. President Biden and news organizations around the world have joined the Journal in calling for Gershkovich's immediate release. Evan's pre-trial detention has been extended several times. On January 26, 2024 , a Russian court again extended Evan's pre-trial detention another 2 months, this time until at least March 30, 2024 .

Evan's arrest and wrongful detention is an attack on journalism and the free press. Such an attack has consequences not just for journalism and media but for governments and democracies around the world. Without press freedom there is no democracy.

Evan was born and raised in New Jersey , the son of Soviet Jewish emigres. He graduated from Bowdoin College in Maine in 2014. Before joining the Journal in January 2022 , Evan was a reporter for Agence France-Presse and the Moscow Times. He was also a news assistant at the New York Times.

Call To Action:

Show your support for Evan by using the #IStandWithEvan hashtag on social media.

Biographical Information

Danielle Gershkovich is Evan's older sister and speaks out on his behalf, in order to help keep Evan's story front and center. She lives in Philadelphia . She has been interviewed by The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, CNN and NPR and others. In October and December she was part of successful media tour with appearances on Morning Joe, Voice of America, Al Jazeera, Reuters TV and local affiliates in Philadelphia, New York , Chicago , Portland, ME , and Hartford CT .

Paul Beckett is an assistant editor at The Wall Street Journal, focused on the efforts supporting Evan Gershkovich . He was most recently the WSJ's Washington Bureau Chief and has served in multiple overseas postings, including Hong Kong and India . Paul has spoken publicly on Evan's case extensively, both in-person and on-air.

Contact: Bill McCarren , 202-662-7534 for the National Press Club

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SOURCE National Press Club
Focusing on an increased sourcing of high-quality coffee, as well as implementing regenerative practices, gender equality programs and projects to increase access to healthcare and clean water.

VEVEY, Switzerland , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Nespresso aims to continue to support the local community and economy by investing 20 million USD spent across coffee purchases, price premiums and technical assistance, by 2026 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), helping to give coffee farmers access to the global markets. The ambition is also to help support fund raising of an additional 20 million USD to support the coffee growing communities in Kivu. This initiative is part of the unique Nespresso Reviving Origins program, founded 10 years ago, aiming to restore coffee agriculture in regions where it is under threat.

In 1980, coffee was the second most important export for DRC and ranked among the world's finest but declined in the early 2000s due to years of instability that had a devastating impact on the industry.

Since the launch of the Nespresso Reviving Origins program in DRC in 2020 it has enabled the production of the exquisite coffees from the Lake Kivu region, where the once-thriving coffee farming community has been, and still is, devastated by decades of political and economic instability, that continue to rise today.

Guillaume Le Cunff , CEO Nespresso says, "Kivu has the potential to be among the world's great coffee regions but has faced extremely challenging conditions in recent years. Through our Reviving Origins program, we work closely with Congolese farmers, and we have joined forces with partners including, Eastern Congo Initiative (ECI)/ASILI, TechnoServe, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), The Global Environment Facility (GEF), Clarmondial, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and Virunga Coffee to restore and revitalize Kivu as a leading source of high-quality, exceptional Arabica coffee. In the context of escalating violence in eastern DRC where access to water is becoming insufficient, water-borne illnesses have resurfaced, and daily life is under significant upheaval, it is even more critical to help build community resilience, access to health care and clean water as well as support farmer livelihoods by continuing to give them access to the global market and empowering them in their agricultural transition."

With the continued investment of 20 million USD in the region, as well as with the ambition to support to raise funds of another 20 million USD , Nespresso aims to continue the work to back the revival of the DRC coffee sector.

"Nespresso's deep commitment to Kivu is creating lasting change in communities across the region. In our work together equipping farmers with the knowledge and market connections they need to thrive, we have seen the transformative impact that coffee can have in Kivu," said TechnoServe CEO William Warshauer . "We believe this initiative will help inspire other companies to invest there."

Abraham Leno , Executive director of ECI says, "Since we started working together, we have built a large health center and an entire water system in the farming community of Minova. Today, our medical team provides safe deliveries and gets hundreds of kids ready for school. More than 22,000 people from the local community have access to clean water, and as displacement soars, we are a primary source of water for thousands of families fleeing violence. With the continued support from Nespresso, we aim to continue this work, expanding dignified and sustainable access to clean water and healthcare."

Nespresso's unique sustainable green coffee sourcing program, the Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality Program, provides the foundation for the work in the Reviving Origins program. For 20 years, the AAA Program has built strong relationships with coffee farmers across the world to protect the nature and life in landscapes where coffee is grown and to strengthen communities' resilience. When supporting to rebuilding and reviving the coffee sector in DRC, Nespresso will further deploy the AAA Program and support the farmers in implementing regenerative practices such as crop diversification, stumping, soil health improvement, agroforestry etc. Via the AAA Program Nespresso will also implement a biodiversity tracking tool using DRCs unique birdlife.

Other important projects within the AAA Program in DRC are gender equality trainings. By advancing gender equality this can have a significant impact on coffee quality and productivity and the livelihoods of coffee farming communities. To date concrete examples of actions to reduce gender disparities and increase womens empowerment includes the increase of women agronomists, currently in DRC 42% of the agronomists are female, trainings for farmers that increase women's empowerment, such as financial literacy, household nutrition, "Safe Spaces" gender training and women's leadership.

Finally, since 2020 Nespresso have been collaborating with an impact digital start-up to verify and trace the coffee by harnessing the power technology. The platform will automatically verify that farmers receive the right payment (including the Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality Program premium) for the high-quality coffee they produce.

About Nestle Nespresso SA

Nestle Nespresso SA is the pioneer and reference for highest-quality portioned coffee. The company works with more than 150,000 farmers in 18 countries through its AAA Sustainable Quality Program to embed sustainability practices on farms and the surrounding landscapes. Launched in 2003 in collaboration with the NGO Rainforest Alliance, the program helps to improve the yield and quality of harvests, ensuring a sustainable supply of high-quality coffee and improving livelihoods of farmers and their communities.

In 2022, Nespresso achieved B Corp certification  joining an international movement of over 7,900 purpose-led businesses that meet B Corp's high standards of social and environmental responsibility and transparency.

Headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland , Nespresso operates in 93 markets and has 14'000 employees. In 2023, it operated a global retail network of 791 boutiques. For more information, visit the Nespresso corporate website: www.nestle-nespresso.com.

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SOURCE Nestle Nespresso SA
Annual FS-ISAC report predicts increased misinformation campaigns and other cyber threats during a "Super Election" year

RESTON, Va. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- FS-ISAC, the member-driven, not-for-profit organization that advances cybersecurity and resilience in the global financial system, today announced the findings of its annual Global Intelligence Office report, Navigating Cyber 2024.

The report details the increasing sophistication of adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures leveraged by threat actors, such as social engineering, SEO poisoning, malvertising, and QR code phishing. It also focuses on the use of evolving technology by threat actors, as they look to leverage generative AI for increased scale and automation of attacks and effectiveness of lures, as well as to poison, manipulate, and exploit generative AI tools themselves.

"Each year, a new set of threats comes to light, requiring the financial services sector's mitigation strategies to advance at an equal if not faster pace than threat actors' tactics," said Steven Silberstein , CEO of FS-ISAC. "As we look ahead to a critical year marked by emerging technology and heightened geopolitical tensions, the best way to maintain the integrity, security, and trust of the sector is through global information sharing."

In addition to long-standing threat vectors, new threats are continuing to emerge that will have disruptive implications for the sector. These include:

Increased geopolitical hacktivism: Threat actors are expected to launch misinformation campaigns and DDoS attacks against critical infrastructure, capitalizing on ongoing geopolitical conflicts and a "super election" year, as five national elections take place across the globe. DDoS attacks are continuing to increase in size, scope, and sophistication, with 35% of all DDoS attacks targeting the financial services sector in 2023.

Threat actors are expected to launch misinformation campaigns and DDoS attacks against critical infrastructure, capitalizing on ongoing geopolitical conflicts and a "super election" year, as five national elections take place across the globe. DDoS attacks are continuing to increase in size, scope, and sophistication, with 35% of all DDoS attacks targeting the financial services sector in 2023. New extortion tactics in response to global regulations: Threat actors have noted the implementation of key legislation in 2023 and are monitoring pending global regulations in 2024 and 2025, adjusting their tactics accordingly. Cybercriminals may weaponize new disclosure requirements, pushing companies to fulfill extortion demands ahead of the required reporting deadline.

Threat actors have noted the implementation of key legislation in 2023 and are monitoring pending global regulations in 2024 and 2025, adjusting their tactics accordingly. Cybercriminals may weaponize new disclosure requirements, pushing companies to fulfill extortion demands ahead of the required reporting deadline. Intensified focus on establishing cryptographic agility: Recent quantum computing and AI advancements are expected to challenge established cryptographic algorithms. In response, the financial services sector must have an increased focus on developing new encryption methods that can be rapidly adopted without altering the bottom-line system infrastructure.

Recent quantum computing and AI advancements are expected to challenge established cryptographic algorithms. In response, the financial services sector must have an increased focus on developing new encryption methods that can be rapidly adopted without altering the bottom-line system infrastructure. Improvement of supply chain's cybersecurity posture: Zero-day vulnerabilities in the supply chain continue to leave the sector unprotected, as attacks on providers disrupt various systems across the sector, such as those of clearing, trading, payments, and back-office service operations. In response, the sector should work closely with suppliers to establish communication channels for incident response and bolster suppliers' greater cybersecurity posture.

"Threat actors will exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure and will leverage any tool available to destroy trust in the security of our systems," said Teresa Walsh , Chief Intelligence Officer and Managing Director, EMEA, of FS-ISAC. "The financial services sector operates in a cyber landscape that is endlessly dynamic, as cybercrime and fraud converge, and emerging technologies create additional opportunities for exposure. In order to maintain trust in the sector, companies must prioritize proactive cyber hygiene to ensure operational resilience in the face of an attack."

Methodology

The Navigating Cyber 2024 report is sourced from FS-ISAC's thousands of member financial firms in 75 countries and further augmented by analysis by the Global Intelligence Office. Multiple streams of intelligence were leveraged for the curation of the round-up, which examined data from January 2023 to January 2024 . The publicly accessible version of the report can be found here. The full report is only available to member financial institutions.

About FS-ISAC

FS-ISAC is the member-driven, not-for-profit organization that advances cybersecurity and resilience in the global financial system, protecting the financial institutions and the people they serve. Founded in 1999, the organization's real-time information-sharing network amplifies the intelligence, knowledge, and practices of its members for the financial sector's collective security and defenses. Member financial firms represent $100 trillion in assets in 75 countries.

Contacts for Media

[email protected]

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SOURCE FS-ISAC
Unprofessional Behavior Likely to Cost Offers Latest Results from The Harris Poll

OKLAHOMA CITY , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite expecting professionalism in interviews, U.S. hiring managers say they've seen it all from candidates  and job seekers report they have a few wild stories to tell about recruiters, too.

"Though these antics may elicit a chuckle, both parties should honor each other's time" - Bill Stoller , Express CEO

This is according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey.

Half of hiring managers say being rude during an interview (68%), late (55%) and/or wearing unprofessional dress (53%) would cause them to not hire a candidate.

Additionally, being uninformed about the company and/or position (47%), using unprofessional body language (44%) and/or not asking questions (27%) may also be detrimental.

Behavior Blunders

Hiring managers most commonly see inappropriately dressed candidates while more than 2 in 5 have encountered candidates talking negatively about their previous job or manager (45%) and answering phone calls or texting during interviews (41%).

About 3 in 10 have had candidates overshare personal information (36%), check their watches (33%), swear during interviews (32%) or get caught lying (28%).

Other reports of unusual interviews include:

"A person came in for an interview half an hour late. He acted excited about the position and said he could start right away. Then he said I have conditions though. He starts naming all of these things, pizza on Fridays, having off every other Friday. Then he walked out."

"[A candidate] pretended to get a phone call from another employer offering them more money."

"This one time during the interview the candidate brought in their iguana and asked if we would compensate the iguana for being with her at work every day."

Interviewer Missteps

More than 1 in 3 job seekers (35%) admit they have done something during an interview, either big or small, that may be a bit outside of the norm.

For around 1 in 10, that means they have overshared personal information (11%), checked their watch (10%), talked negatively about their previous job/manager (8%) or generally had an interruption (by a pet or child) during a remote interview (8%).

Job seekers, however, are not the only people involved in the interview. Nearly two-thirds (65%) have had an interviewer do any of these actions during an interview. Nearly 1 in 3 job seekers have had an interviewer answer a phone call during an interview (32%) or check their watch (30%). For 1 in 5 (20%), an interviewer overshared personal information.

Candidates also recounted their wildest interview experiences:

"I saw a physical fight break out between two employees in the office and the manager interviewing me rushed over to break it up and got knocked out by one of the guys in the fight."

"An employee came in and quit while I was being interviewed."

"The person interviewing me went into labor."

"Though these eccentric interview antics may elicit a chuckle, both the candidate and hiring manager should honor each other's time, striving to uncover not only if the job seeker has the proper qualifications, but also if the applicant would be a good fit with the company's culture," said Bill Stoller , Express Employment International CEO.

Survey Methodology

The Job Insights survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals between Oct. 31 and Nov. 10, 2023 , among 1,007 U.S. hiring decision-makers.

The Job Seeker Report was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from Nov. 9 to 26, 2023 , among 1,002 adults ages 18 and older.

For full survey methodologies, please contact [email protected], Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

If you would like to arrange for an interview to discuss this topic, please contact [email protected], Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

About Bill Stoller

William H. "Bill" Stoller is chairman and chief executive officer of Express Employment International. Founded in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma , the international staffing franchisor supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and related brands. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in the U.S. , Canada , South Africa , Australia and New Zealand .

About Express Employment Professionals

At Express Employment Professionals, we're in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada , South Africa , Australia and New Zealand , employing 492,000 people globally in 2023 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.

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SOURCE Express Services dba Express Employment Professionals
A Charlottesville-based company providing educational tours of major cities has agreed to settle a wrongful-death lawsuit alleging that its negligence and fraud cost a 15-year-old boy his life.

Halting a jury trial in late January, WorldStrides agreed to pay $5 million to the family of Ryan Clifton Stokes of Andalusia, Alabama, who died in Washington, D.C., on a WorldStrides trip.

"After years of denying responsibility, WorldStrides only offered a fair settlement once a jury had heard the evidence and a verdict was imminent, one of the family's lawyers told The Daily Progress.

That lawyer, Joseph F. McGowin, said that the boy's parents had relied on WorldStrides' promise of having a doctor on call before sending the teen on a tour of the nations capital. But when Stokes fell ill one night at his hotel room, instead of a doctor, the company sent an unlicensed medical assistant who misdiagnosed him, McGowin said.

"Contrary to WorldStrides representations, no doctor was involved in the medical response," McGowin said.

Stokes was eventually airlifted to Childrens National Hospital for surgery to correct problems caused by a bowel obstruction. But, the teen died there three days later on June 8, 2018.

Companies like WorldStrides should be held to account when they choose to put children at risk through deceptive sales tactics," McGowin said.

The trouble began around midnight on the evening of June 4, 2018, when the Stokes' tour group was back in its hotel in suburban Maryland after a day visiting such sites as the Washington Monument and Arlington National Cemetery.

A friend testified in a pre-trial deposition that Stokes vomited and then began to cry, holding his stomach and screaming.

One of the group's chaperones contacted WorldStrides, which had promised customers "access to doctors who are available 24 hours a day to provide in-hotel emergency care." The company touted this "Doctors on Call" program through videos, web pages and other marketing materials.

The lawsuit, filed in Alabama's Covington County Circuit Court, asserted that the physicians' assistant who showed up to the hotel blamed the boy's distress on kidney stones or a stomach bug and that instead of sending the boy to a hospital she issued "vague and nonspecific instructions" to the group's chaperones.

"Ryan never saw a doctor as promised by WorldStrides," according to the suit. "Nor was any doctor involved in his care."

The following morning, the suit alleged, Stokes collapsed with an intestinal obstruction resulting in hypovolemic shock, a condition that deprives the heart of its ability to move blood through the body. He never regained consciousness.

"All of us at WorldStrides are heartbroken by the tragedy that occurred in 2018 and we are glad that this matter could finally be resolved for the family," WorldStrides said in a statement. "The safety and security of our travelers is, and always will be, our highest priority."

That statement was provided by Mary Callas, senior director of marketing operations, who declined to answer any further questions from The Daily Progress, even questions about the identity of the company's current ownership.

WorldStrides was founded in Chicago in 1965 by former social studies teacher Phil Wendel, who went on to launch the Charlottesville-based ACAC chain of health and fitness clubs. Since Wendel sold his controlling interest in 1998, WorldStrides has had at least five owners, each a private equity group, including a 2011 purchase by the D.C.-based private equity firm Carlyle Group.

The latest owner appears to be the one announced in 2017 and led by Paris-based private equity firm Eurazeo with China's Primavera Capital. In announcing that purchase, the buyers proclaimed that WorldStrides was then enjoying a 13% profit margin  not counting taxes, depreciation and debt service.

In 2019, the year before the COVID-19 pandemic, WorldStrides reported serving about 550,000 students and generating an annual revenue of about $650 million. In November of that year, WorldStrides announced that it had completed the purchase of an array of smaller travel companies, including World Class Vacations, Brightspark, Jumpstreet and Educatours.

The timing of the purchase turned out not to be optimal, as just four months later travel and transportation ground to a halt as a pandemic swept the globe. The firm, reportedly America's largest educational travel company at the time, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in July 2020.

Papers filed in that bankruptcy case show that much of the debt the company had amassed were loans from prior sellers. With an infusion of additional loans, the firm, which still uses the original name Wendel gave the company, Lakeland Tours, emerged in late 2020 with a reorganization approved by the federal bankruptcy court of the Southern District of New York.

Following the lawsuit, WorldStrides appears to have altered the language of its "Doctors on Call" program. It now promises a call center "staffed by EMTs who facilitate access to physicians and Advanced Practice Providers" based at the emergency medicine department at the George Washington University.

"Through telehealth consultation," reads the new language, "medical professionals are available to evaluate health-related concerns and make recommendations for treatment accordingly."

According to a knowledgable source, WorldStrides informed employees on Feb. 29 that the company had laid off a group of employees earlier that day. CEO David Kirchhoff, who lives in Austin, Texas, told those who remained that the number of people released was "north of 50."

Callas, the spokeswoman, declined to address the layoff announcement.

Six months before he died, according to a family member quoted in his hometown newspaper, Stokes filled out a donor card that allowed his kidneys to be donated and his heart to be given to a 12-year-old girl in New Jersey.
MIAMI , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In today's digital era, public service companies face the challenge of staying technologically current while maintaining service stability and quality. Implementing new technology can be complex, posing risks such as system crashes, data leaks, and poor data management, which can inconvenience customers.

To tackle this challenge, Open International, a leader in technological utility solutions, has adopted a strategy of continuous updates for its billing solution, Smartflex. These updates are rolled out gradually by clients, minimizing disruptions to their operations.

Jesus Sanchez , Open's Chief Marketing Officer, highlights that Release 48 of Smartflex Version 8 introduces significant enhancements. It offers greater customization capabilities for customer experiences in the self-service portal and functional improvements in billing processes, offer and rate management, fieldwork, and cybersecurity.

One notable improvement in Release 48 is the complete redesign of Smartflex's self-service portal, now fully customizable. This allows utilities to tailor screens and menus according to their needs and those of their customers, enhancing interactions and experiences. Additionally, it provides easier access to request history and consumption data for informed decision-making.

Sanchez explains that this new version includes enhancements to the offline billing functionality, enabling companies to bill immediately without an internet connection, reducing costs and speeding up the billing process, improving cash flow, and sustainability.

Smartflex's latest release also facilitates the rapid implementation of security measures, such as mass password resets and access control integrations. Moreover, it streamlines sales processes by efficiently managing commercial offers and rates through flexible configurations.

Smartflex's continuous release approach empowers Open's customers to remain at the forefront of technology, enhancing sustainability and meeting evolving customer needs.

About Open International:

Established in 1987, Open International has been dedicated to creating technology that helps telecommunications and public service providers achieve their business objectives and implement innovative strategies. Through its software solutions, Open enables its customers to address industry challenges with agility, simplifying operations, generating value, and enhancing customer satisfaction. Open Smartflex, its comprehensive product, offers a powerful billing engine, robust customer care suite, agile mobile workforce management system, intelligent measurement engine, and numerous other functionalities tailored to meet customer needs.

Media Contact:

Maria Corredor

[email protected]

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SOURCE Open International LLC
ROCHESTER, N.Y. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Families of nursing home residents across the state are raising their voices to urge Governor Hochul to reconsider plans to cut Medicaid reimbursements to nursing homes. The impact of such a decision, they argue, would be devastating, particularly for residents who call these facilities home.

Susan Vanvliet , whose mother has been a nursing home resident for the last 16 months after a debilitating fall, emphasizes the cruel nature of cutting Medicaid funding to these essential healthcare providers. "This generation has worked tirelessly their entire lives," says VanVliet. "They are not seeking handouts; they are individuals who have given back to their communities and country throughout their lifetimes." VanVliet and other families are urgently asking NYS residents to STAND UP to the Governor telling her that NY's older adults deserve better.

Recent statistics paint a grim picture of the state of nursing homes nationwide. More than 1,000 nursing homes have closed since 2015, and workforce levels are at their lowest since 1994. In New York State , 11 nursing homes have closed since 2020 and 9 of those were non-profit. Shockingly, 55% of nursing home providers report operating at a loss. These closures and financial strains have immediate and tragic consequences for communities across the nation.

New York State , with the country's fourth largest population of people over 60, faces unique challenges in sustaining its nursing home facilities. Depleted resources, rising costs, and unprecedented staffing shortages have pushed these critical healthcare providers to the brink. Despite facing a 40% increase in labor costs and a shortage of 65,000 workers, nursing homes have not seen a Medicaid reimbursement increase in 15 years.

The current reimbursement rate covers only 50-60% of actual costs, creating an unsustainable financial burden on the residents and their communities. Nursing homes are on the verge of collapse under the weight of the current funding model. Families are united in their plea to Governor Hochul : watch their video message.

"Nursing homes serve a critical role within the healthcare system," emphasizes VanVliet. "Our elders deserve dignity, respect, and proper care in their later years. Cutting Medicaid reimbursement puts their well-being at risk. And more to the point, it is cruel," she says.

VanVliet and other families are urging NYS residents to send a digital letter to the Governor.

For interviews with Nursing Home CEOs of The Alliance*, or family members, please contact [email protected].

*The Alliance for Senior Care comprises St. Ann's Community, St. John's , Friendly Senior Living, Episcopal SeniorLife Communities, and Jewish Senior Life.

Contact: Erin Foster , 585-474-0258

[email protected]

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SOURCE Alliance for Senior Care
LEIDEN, Netherlands , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ProteoNic Biosciences, a leading provider of premium vector technology and services for the production of biologics, is announcing the launch of its highly anticipated LV-2G UNic Early Access Program. This program marks a significant milestone in lentivirus manufacturing optimization, offering access to groundbreaking vector technology designed to revolutionize viral vector production.

With the official launch on March 20, 2024 , ProteoNic extends a warm invitation to CDMOs, biotechs, and biopharmaceutical companies to experience firsthand the transformative potential of LV-2G UNic. By seamlessly integrating this cutting-edge vector technology into existing systems, participants can achieve remarkable enhancements in titers, paving the way for increased viral vector production capacity and substantial improvements in manufacturing cost efficiency.

Frank Pieper , CEO of ProteoNic, shared his excitement about the program's potential impact, stating, "The LV-2G UNic Early Access Program will serve as a launching platform for our viral vector manufacturing innovation. By offering early access to our state-of-the-art vector technology, we empower researchers to unlock unprecedented levels of efficiency and productivity in viral vector manufacturing."

LV-2G UNic represents next generation vector technology, engineered to elevate lentiviral titers across a wide array of expression systems. The technology drives enhanced infectious viral particle production, by providing a significant boost in gRNA production through increased transcription levels achieved with ProteoNic's patented Dual Promoter system.

Participation in the LV-2G UNic Early Access Program offers exclusive benefits, including access to ProteoNic's cutting-edge LV-2G UNic vector technology, optimizing lentiviral particle expression and co-development opportunities. This technology can be seamlessly integrated into current workflows with minimal to no process development required.

For more information about LV-2G UNic and the Early Access Program, visit proteonic.nl

About ProteoNic BV

ProteoNic is a privately held company with offices in Leiden, the Netherlands and in the Boston area, USA . The company offers technology and services for the generation of cell lines and viral vectors with greatly improved production characteristics. The company commercializes its proprietary 2G UNic technology through licensing and partnership arrangements.

For more information please contact:

ProteoNic BV

Jonathan Frampton , PhD

Director, Business Development

T: +44 7961 144115

E: [email protected]

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SOURCE ProteoNic
MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE

LENGNAU, Switzerland , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2017, Rado collaborated with the visionary Japanese fashion designer Kunihiko Morinaga to create a limited-edition timepiece that blended the brand's renowned mastery of materials with the color-changing technology for which the avant-garde designer is so well known. Rado and Morinaga have announced the release of their latest shared masterpiece, the Rado True Square x Kunihiko Morinaga Special Edition watch.

It's no surprise that the new Rado True Square x Kunihiko Special Edition watch is visually breathtaking. It features a squarish polished black monobloc high-tech ceramic case and crown. The black PVD sandblasted titanium case back is fitted with a sapphire crystal with the metalized words: KUNIHIKO MORINAGA SPECIAL EDITION.

The transparent dial is one of the watch's defining elements. In true Kunihiko Morinaga fashion, it has a photochromic treatment, which means that it changes color according to the available light. The designer explains, "The intent was to add color and take it away. I tried to capture the ethereal nature of time in the design by integrating a photochromic lens that changes color based on ultraviolet light."

And it works! When it is exposed to sunlight, the True Square's dial darkens. But as the sun goes down  as it invariably does  the dial shade evolves into grey and finally becomes transparent, revealing the Rado caliber R734 at the heart of the watch. The sight of the automatic mechanical movement is worth waiting for. It is fitted with an antimagnetic Nivachron balance spring and, like the movement holder, features circular grain decoration.

In stunning contrast to the eye-catching dial, the rhodium-colored hour and minute hands have a white veneer and are coated with white Super-LumiNova, which makes them legible regardless of the position of the sun.

The Rado True Square x Kunihiko Morinaga is presented on a polished black high-tech ceramic bracelet secured by a titanium three-fold clasp. The watch, which is water resistant to 5 bar (50m), is delivered with a Special Edition certificate.

The Rado True Square x Kunihiko Morinaga Special Edition is the result of a natural partnership between an innovative brand and a disruptive fashion visionary who are dedicated to blending the boundaries between technology and design. Available at Rado.com

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SOURCE The Swatch Group (U.S.) Inc. - Rado Division
Samsung Displays, together with collaboration and analysis tools from VirnetX and OmniTeq, power a world-class command and control center backed by military-grade security

RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Samsung Electronics America, Inc., has partnered with VirnetX Holding Corporation (NYSE: VHC), an Internet security software and technology company, to outfit the Skinwalker Ranch investigation team's world-class command center with cutting-edge displays and collaboration tools . The team currently uses the technology to scientifically document and analyze unidentified aerial phenomena at the 512-acre ranch, where its work is also the subject of the History Channel's hit show, "The Secret of Skinwalker Ranch ."

Skinwalker Ranch in eastern Utah has long been a hotbed of paranormal and extraterrestrial activity, including reports of unidentified flying objects, radio frequency and GPS interference and unexplained lights and frequencies. In 2016, Brandon Fugal , Chairman and co-owner of the intermountain operation of global commercial real estate company Colliers International, acquired the ranch and set out to scientifically investigate the unexplained activities. To support this groundbreaking research, Fugal wanted to provide his team with a secure infrastructure and the latest hardware and software to intelligently integrate and analyze all the images, videos and data captured throughout the expansive property.

"I am proud to be working with the team at Samsung and VirnetX to incorporate the most advanced technology platforms to aid our investigation of this most unique location," said Brandon Fugal .

The Skinwalker Ranch investigation team worked closely with Samsung and VirnetX to create a one-of-a-kind, technology-enabled command center dedicated to learning and researching paranormal phenomena. Today, the team uses VirnetX's military-grade videoconferencing solution, War Room , for encrypted communications between a private airport hangar in Utah Valley and the command center to manage transportation to and from the ranch. The War Room software is optimized to work with Samsung Interactive Displays installed throughout the facility.

"We are excited to work with Samsung in the scientific exploration of unidentified aerial phenomena activity at Skinwalker Ranch ," said Kendall Larsen , VirnetX CEO and President. "VirnetX provides a secure mesh to the Samsung digital displays and all the information gathered at Skinwalker Ranch . Our War Room video conferencing provides military-grade security and runs beautifully on Samsung displays. War Room video conferencing is impenetrable."

Samsung outfitted the innovative data and command center with numerous displays to monitor real-time security and satellite footage across the ranch. The investigation team uses the Samsung Interactive Display with AI analytics platform AThENA by OmniTeq to handle all data analysis, research and collaboration. Each day, AThENA aggregates and processes millions of data points collected by the researchers. The Samsung Interactive Displays make it easy to examine the data and review recorded video evidence directly on the screen. Built-in collaborative tools enable the researchers to annotate and share data and screenshots all from the same interface.

"While the Skinwalker Ranch team is conducting unprecedented research, its world-class, highly secure facility offers a model blueprint for all command and control centers," said David Phelps , Head of the Display Division, Samsung Electronics America. "A well-designed command center should empower its staff to ingest vast information in a clear, defined way for easy situational awareness and decision-making. Display technology can play a central role in facilitating team collaboration and understanding of what is happening during tactical operations in the field or with something outside of this world."

In addition to Samsung Displays, the Skinwalker Ranch team uses Samsung tablets to collect data during investigations out on the ranch. All data captured on the tablets in the field is automatically and securely sent back to the main command center for real-time collaboration and analysis.

Read the case study to learn more about Samsung and VirnetX's innovative work with Skinwalker Ranch to investigate unidentified aerial phenomena. To discover how Samsung solutions empower mission-critical command centers and workforces, please visit www.samsung.com/us/business/solutions/industries/government/ .

About Skinwalker Ranch

Recognized as the most scientifically studied paranormal hotspot on the planet, Skinwalker Ranch is a 512-acre secure site that has been monitored for decades with armed security and surveillance 24/7/365. This remote location was involved with a Pentagon-funded black budget project studying UFO activity, cattle mutilations and strange phenomena and is also known as a living laboratory for studying unexplained phenomena. For more information visit www.Skinwalker-Ranch.com .

About VirnetX

VirnetX Holding Corporation is an Internet security software and technology company with patented technology for Zero Trust Network Access ("ZTNA") based secure network communications. VirnetX software and technology solutions, including its Secure Domain Name Registry and Technology, VirnetX One, VirnetX War Room, VirnetX Matrix, and Gabriel Connection Technology, are designed to be device and location independent, and enable a secure real-time communication environment for all types of enterprise applications, services, and critical infrastructures. The Company's patent portfolio includes over 200 U.S. and foreign granted patents, validations, and pending applications. For more information, please visit virnetx.com .

About Samsung Electronics America

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com .

Investor Relations

VirnetX Holding Corporation

415.505.0456

[email protected]

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SOURCE VirnetX Holding Corporation
Do-nut brand offers five weeks of exclusive offers for loyalty members

HOUSTON , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Shipley Do-Nuts, one of the nation's oldest and largest do-nut brands, is making Monday the happiest day of the week by offering freebies and extra points to its loyalty members throughout April.

Do-Happy Mondays kick off on April 1 , and Shipley Do-Nuts loyalty members are in for a treat with a different special offer each week:

April 1 : No foolin'  get an exclusive sneak preview of Shipley's newest limited-time, specialty do-nut for free with any purchase (offer good through Sunday, April 7).

: No foolin'  get an exclusive sneak preview of Shipley's newest limited-time, specialty do-nut for free with any purchase (offer good through Sunday, April 7). April 8 : A deal that "eclipses" all others  earn an additional 500 points with any purchase.

: A deal that "eclipses" all others  earn an additional 500 points with any purchase. April 15 : Ease the Tax Day blues with a buy-one, get-one half-dozen box of do-nuts.

: Ease the Tax Day blues with a buy-one, get-one half-dozen box of do-nuts. April 22 : Celebrate Earth Day with a free medium cup of Shipley's ethically sourced Rainforest Alliance Certified house blend hot, cold brew or iced coffee with any purchase.

: Celebrate with a free medium cup of Shipley's ethically sourced Rainforest Alliance Certified house blend hot, cold brew or iced coffee with any purchase. April 29 : Wrap up the fifth Monday of the month with an additional 500 points with any purchase.

Shipley Do-Nuts' loyalty program, which recently crossed the 100,000-member milestone, awards members five points for every dollar they spend, allowing them to climb membership levels and unlock even more exclusive offers and discounts. Do-Happy Rewards range from free do-nuts and kolaches to Shipley merchandise and discounted coffees for as low as 99 cents .

"We understand the importance of starting the week on a positive note and wanted to reward our loyal fans with an extra sweet start to their Mondays all month long," said Donna Josephson , chief marketing officer at Shipley Do-Nuts. "Loyalty members won't want to miss these irresistible deals and rewards, especially the exclusive preview of our exciting new specialty do-nut."

To become a Shipley Do-Nuts loyalty member and take advantage of Do-Happy Mondays, sign up at www.shipleydonuts.com/rewards or any Shipley Do-Nuts location.

ABOUT SHIPLEY DO-NUTS

Founded in 1936, Houston -based Shipley Do-Nuts is one of the nation's oldest and largest do-nut brands, with more than 350 company-owned and franchised restaurants across 12 states, serving up its famous do-nuts, coffee and kolaches to generations of guests. Shipley is ranked No. 110 on Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500 2024 list and No. 1 in its category, and it debuted at No. 209 on the 2023 Franchise Times Top 400. For franchising information, visit ownashipleydonuts.com. Follow Shipley on Instagram and Facebook @ShipleyDonuts.

Media Contact:

Ashley Lennington , SPM Communications

[email protected]

214-379-7000

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SOURCE Shipley Do-Nuts
SAN FRANCISCO , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Simplilearn , a leading provider of professional training and certification solutions globally, proudly announces its receipt of two esteemed awards from EC-Council , a global leader in cybersecurity education and training, and the inventor of Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). In recognition of its excellence, Simplilearn has been honored with both the 'EC-Council ATC of the Year Award' and the 'EC-Council Circle of Excellence Award (Enterprise)' for the year 2023. These accolades underscore Simplilearn's unwavering dedication to delivering top-tier cybersecurity training and certification programs, solidifying its standing as a frontrunner in the industry.

Winners are carefully selected from a pool of over 2,380 training partners in 145 countries worldwide. These criteria include commitment to education, student feedback, course evaluations, certification attempts, student education volume, and continuous program development. The '2023 EC-Council ATC of the Year Award' is a testament to Simplilearn's commitment to cybersecurity education, substantially impacting the global cybersecurity workforce. In addition to this outstanding achievement, Simplilearn is also proud to receive the '2023 EC-Council Circle of Excellence Award (Enterprise)', further solidifying its position as an education leader. This accolade recognizes Simplilearn's dedication to educating and making a difference in the cybersecurity workforce and its continuous program development efforts.

For over a decade, the EC-Council's Circle of Excellence Awards program has been recognizing training companies and enterprises in cybersecurity and related internet industries. In its selection process, the council engages numerous industry experts, training partners, and expert instructors who serve on its annual awards board. From a vast array of training centers worldwide, including a substantial number of Certified EC-Council Instructors, Simplilearn was chosen by the EC-Council.

Kashyap Dalal , Co-founder and COO, of Simplilearn, said, "We are honored to be recognized by EC-Council for the sixth time. This highlights Simplilearn's commitment to excellence in cybersecurity education. These awards underscore our dedication to empowering professionals worldwide with high-quality training and certification programs. In constant endeavor, we are aligned towards introducing new courses focusing on high-demand skills, such as cybersecurity, to elevate the knowledge and skills of professionals in this vital industry."

"EC-Council is deeply committed to its mission of strengthening the cybersecurity landscape through education and certification. By honoring organizations like Simplilearn that demonstrate dedication to cybersecurity skill development, we hope to inspire others to prioritize skill development in this critical field. Our relentless pursuit of excellence in training and credentialing has far-reaching implications for global cybersecurity. The awards we host serve as a symbol of recognition, not only celebrating outstanding achievements but also highlighting the pivotal role of education in combating cyber threats.These awards underscore the significance of continuous learning and excellence in shaping a safer digital future for all," said Jay Bavisi , CEO & President, EC-Council Group.

The meticulous evaluation process considered factors such as student feedback on EC-Council courses and faculty, post-class evaluation reports, certification attempts, and the volume of students educated in cybersecurity. Simplilearn's success in securing these awards reflects its dedication to education and consistent efforts to deliver top-notch training programs to professionals globally.

Simplilearn has been honored with the EC-Council Circle of Excellence Award in 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2014 and the Best Newcomer award in 2013. This accolade joins a series of recent recognitions, including the 2020 and 2019 Stevie Awards for Customer Service Success and Innovation in Customer Service Management. Additionally, Simplilearn has earned Training Industry Magazine's Top 20 Online Learning Library awards in 2020, 2019, and 2018, along with the 2020 Top 20 IT Training Company Award.

About Simplilearn:

Founded in 2010 and based in San Francisco, California , and Bangalore, India , Simplilearn, a Blackstone portfolio company, is the world's #1 online Bootcamp for digital economy skills training. Simplilearn offers access to world-class work-ready training to individuals and businesses around the world. The Bootcamps are designed and delivered with world-renowned universities, top corporations, and leading industry bodies via live online classes featuring top industry practitioners, sought-after trainers, and global leaders. From college students and early career professionals to managers, executives, small businesses, large corporations, and governments, Simplilearn's role-based, skill-focused, industry-recognized, and globally relevant training programs are ideal upskilling solutions for diverse career and business goals.

For more information, please visit www.simplilearn.com

For more information:

Vidya Nadiminti | [email protected]

Arzoo Jain | [email protected]

ABOUT EC-COUNCIL:

EC-Council invented the Certified Ethical Hacker . Founded in 2001 in response to 9/11, EC-Council's mission is to provide the training and certifications apprentice and experienced cybersecurity professionals need to keep corporations, government agencies and others who employ them safe from attack.

Best known for its Certified Ethical Hacker program, EC-Council today offers 200 different pieces of training, certificates, and degrees in everything from Computer Forensic Investigation and Security Analysis to Threat Intelligence and Information Security. An ISO/IEC 17024 Accredited Organization recognized under the U.S. Defense Department Directive 8140/8570 and many other authoritative cybersecurity bodies worldwide, the company has certified over 350,000 professionals across the globe. Trusted by seven of the Fortune 10, half of the Fortune 100, and the intelligence communities of 150 nations, EC-Council is the gold standard in cybersecurity education and certification.

A truly global organization with a driving belief in bringing diversity, equity, and inclusion to the modern cybersecurity workforce, EC-Council maintains 11 offices in the US, the UK , India , Malaysia , Singapore , and Indonesia . The company can be reached online at https://www.eccouncil.org/

Press Contact: [email protected]

For more information, please visit https://www.eccouncil.org/

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SOURCE Simplilearn
Board of Trustees Preparing to Launch Presidential Search

TEMPE, Ariz. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sonoran University of Health Sciences announced today that Dr. Paul Mittman will be retiring in June 2025 after 25 years as president and CEO of the institution.

"As George Harrison wrote, 'All things must pass.' After a quarter century at its helm, I will leave Sonoran University of Health Sciences with its reputation for innovation and bold initiatives, financially healthy, poised to launch new programs, growing enrollment, and with a steadfast commitment to the core values: 'We shape the future, we are resilient, we achieve excellence, we do the right thing, and we love,'" said Dr. Mittman . "It's been a blessing to have a job with meaning, one that aligns with my own values and convictions, and that makes a difference in people's lives. While I'm proud of Sonoran University today, I know its best days lie ahead to be written in the next chapters of this amazing institution."

Dr. Mittman has served as Sonoran University of Health Sciences' president since 1999 and achieved a variety of great successes for the institution, including:

Transforming Sonoran University from a single-purpose college to a university with multiple programs and international reach.

Building strong relationships that resulted in multiple transformational philanthropic contributions to advance research, grow scholarships, enhance education, expand community health clinics and support patient care.

Creating a unified on-ground campus in Tempe by purchasing the Medical Center Building in 2009, building the Lim Commons in 2015 to provide vital educational and patient care spaces for students and transforming the campus Academic Building with the addition of a Biosafety Level 2 Research Laboratory .

by purchasing the in 2009, building the in 2015 to provide vital educational and patient care spaces for students and transforming the campus with the addition of a Biosafety Level 2 . Ensuring the institution offers options for free medical and nutrition care through Sonoran's Community Health program and Virtual Center for Personalized Nutrition .

program and . Inspiring a culture at the university for those who work, study, or receive healthcare that embodies the institutional core values of "We Love, We Shape the Future, We Do the Right Thing, We Achieve Excellence, and We Are Resilient."

In addition to practicing naturopathic medicine for 25 years, Dr. Mittman's research in the late 1980s was among the first peer-reviewed published randomized controlled trials on medicinal plants. He currently chairs the Arizona Board for Private Postsecondary Education, serves on the Arizona State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement, the Advisory Board of Arizona State University's Center for the Study of Race and Democracy, the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education Alumni Advisory Board, and the board of the Association for Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges. Inspired by the University of Pennsylvania's Netter Center for Community Partnerships, Dr. Mittman helped create and sustain community healthcare partnerships providing free care in Maricopa County's under-resourced communities. Paul has been married to his wife Laura for 37 years, is a loving father to Arie (and wife Jill) and Cascade (and husband Kyle), a new grandfather to Holiday, and is a competitive bicyclist.

Sonoran University's Board of Trustees is currently preparing for the presidential search by creating a committee chaired by Trustee Duane Roen . Dr. Roen has served on the Sonoran Board of Trustees since 2017, is a former Vice Provost and Dean at Arizona State University and has chaired many search committees in the course of his distinguished career. The search is set to begin in the summer or fall.

For more information on Sonoran University, please visit www.sonoran.edu.

About Sonoran University of Health Sciences

Sonoran University of Health Sciences is a private non-profit and internationally recognized higher education institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University's College of Naturopathic Medicine, College of Nutrition, and School of Mental Health's evidence-based program offerings shape a healthier future by supporting students as they train to excel as healthcare professionals.

Serving the University's mission, the Sage Foundation for Health supports several Community Clinics focused on providing free naturopathic medical care to local under-resourced communities. The College of Nutrition's Virtual Center for Personalized Nutrition provides personalized and evidence-based care delivered at no cost. The Ric Scalzo Institute for Botanical Research is a state-of-the-art laboratory seeking to improve therapies for global health concerns. The University's Clinical Care branch operates open-to-the-public clinics and Medicinary, Arizona's largest natural pharmacy. The Medical Center provides naturopathic healthcare to patients seeking evidence-based complementary services. The Neil Riordan Center for Regenerative Medicine focuses on non-opioid solutions to pain and pain management.

Contact: Ivana Morales

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 973-864-4523

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SOURCE Sonoran University of Health Sciences
DALLAS , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Spark Spot, a trailblazer in the electric vehicle (EV) charging industry, is proud to announce the acquisition of prime land for the development of a cutting-edge EV Charging Station in Carrollton, Texas . This strategic move marks a significant step forward in Spark Spot's mission to revolutionize sustainable transportation infrastructure and provide unparalleled charging solutions for EV owners.

Located in the parking lot of the H-Mart Shopping Center on the corner of East Trinity Mills Rd and Old Denton Rd of Carrollton , the newly acquired land sets the stage for the construction of Spark Spot's latest state-of-the-art EV Charging Station . With the demand for EVs on the rise and the need for accessible charging infrastructure growing, this development underscores Spark Spot's unwavering commitment to meeting the evolving needs of drivers in the region and beyond.

"Spark Spot is thrilled to ignite excitement with the acquisition of land for our upcoming EV Charging Station in Carrollton ," said Shaun Hernandez , Director of Operations at Spark Spot. "As champions of sustainable mobility, we are dedicated to empowering drivers with convenient, reliable, and efficient charging solutions. This new station will serve as a beacon of progress, driving positive change and inspiring communities to embrace the electric vehicle revolution."

The forthcoming EV Charging Station in Carrollton will feature cutting-edge technology and user-friendly amenities designed to enhance the charging experience for EV owners. From fast-charging capabilities to intuitive interfaces and eco-friendly practices, Spark Spot is committed to setting new standards for excellence in EV charging infrastructure.

In addition to providing essential charging services, Spark Spot's Carrollton station will serve as a hub for innovation and community engagement. Through partnerships with local organizations, educational initiatives, and outreach programs, Spark Spot aims to foster collaboration and promote sustainable transportation solutions that benefit both individuals and the environment.

As construction begins on the new EV Charging Station in Carrollton , Spark Spot looks forward to sharing progress updates and celebrating milestones with the community. With a shared vision of a cleaner, greener future, Spark Spot invites residents, businesses, and stakeholders to join in the journey towards sustainable mobility.

For more information about Spark Spot and its commitment to advancing EV charging infrastructure, visit www.sparkspot.com.

Media Contact: Shaun Hernandez

Phone: (833) SPARK-EV

Email: [email protected]

About Spark Spot: Spark Spot is a pioneering provider of electric vehicle charging solutions, dedicated to revolutionizing sustainable transportation infrastructure. With a focus on innovation, reliability, and customer satisfaction, Spark Spot is committed to driving positive environmental change and empowering communities to embrace the electric vehicle revolution.

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SOURCE Spark Spot
Leadership change simultaneous to the Eclipse Cell Engineering platform spinout as EditCo Bio

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Synthego Corporation, a leading provider of genome engineering solutions, announced that Paul Dabrowski will step down as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Craig Christianson has been appointed Chief Executive Officer following an extensive search process. Mr. Dabrowski , a co-founder of the company, will continue his role as a Board Director and advisor. Additionally, the company announces the divestiture of the Eclipse Cell Engineering platform as EditCo Bio, Inc., enabling Synthego's unique focus on therapeutic applications of CRISPR.

"Founding and growing Synthego the past 12 years has been the privilege of a lifetime," said Dabrowski. "Our team has transformed the CRISPR landscape by staying true to our values and providing everyone, from individual scientists to the world's leading biotechnology companies, with unprecedented access to advanced genome engineering. I'm confident Craig is an ideal fit to further our mission by building a robust commercial engine leveraging Synthego's platform - in addition to his impeccable track record, he embodies Synthego's culture of innovation and excellence. As the world enters the era of CRISPR based therapeutics, Synthego is now focused to be the premier supplier to hundreds of programs entering the clinic."

Christianson has a track record of spearheading global commercial strategies, business development and operations to build global life sciences and other businesses. He joins Synthego from Water Street Healthcare Partners, preceded by 12 years with global biotechnology company Promega Corporation where he led commercial operations, accelerating their growth to $700M+ in annual sales through profit-driven strategies and successful digital transformation.

"I am honored to join this pioneering organization which plays an important role in the impact CRISPR has on life science research and clinical development," said Christianson. "Paul is a visionary who has built a foundation upon which Synthego will become the best partner for clients in terms of co-development and regulatory compliance for the advancement of therapies and, ultimately, human health."

Christianson's appointment, along with the spinout of EditCo Bio, previously operating as Synthego's Eclipse platform, reinforces Synthego's commitment to provide CRISPR therapeutic developers with best-in-class guide RNAs. With its state-of-the-art GMP facility and extensive experience of producing leading products, Synthego is uniquely positioned to address escalating clinical requirements and changing regulatory frameworks. Bolstered by the FDA approval of the first CRISPR-based therapy, Synthego is more dedicated than ever to accelerating life-saving technologies for improved human health in its next chapter.

For more information, click here .

About Synthego:

Synthego is a genome engineering company that enables the acceleration of life science research and development in the pursuit of improved human health. Based on a foundation of engineering and chemistry, Synthego leverages automation and machine learning to synthesize high-quality CRISPR reagents for science at scale. Synthego's mission is to enable agile life science research and development from discovery through clinical trials by providing scientists with comprehensive CRISPR solutions for each phase coupled with full technical and regulatory support from industry-leading experts. With its technologies cited in hundreds of peer-reviewed publications and utilized by thousands of commercial and academic researchers and therapeutic drug developers, Synthego is at the forefront of innovation, enabling the next generation of medicines by delivering genome editing at an unprecedented scale.

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SOURCE Synthego
At the invitation of Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi, Beninese Foreign Minister Shegun Adjadi Bakari will pay an official visit to China from March 28 to April 1.



CCTV: On March 26, a terrorist attack on the vehicle of the Dasu Hydropower Project undertaken by a Chinese company in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan left several people dead or injured. Whats the latest update on the investigation and handling of the attack? What action does China plan to take? How will the attack affect China-Pakistan cooperation and bilateral relations?

Lin Jian: We strongly condemn this act of terrorism. We express deep condolences over the lives lost and extend sincere sympathies to the bereaved families. We have previously stated our position on this incident.

Immediately after the attack, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan activated the emergency response mechanism and swiftly engaged in emergency response and close communication with Pakistan both in Beijing and Islamabad. We asked Pakistan to speed up the hunt for the perpetrators, punish them by law, let justice be done for the victims, and take effective steps to protect the safety and security of Chinese personnel in Pakistan. Pakistan promised to thoroughly investigate the incident, provide timely updates on the progress of the investigation, step up security measures for Chinese personnel, projects and institutions in Pakistan, and ensure the safety of Chinese nationals in Pakistan. Relevant work is proceeding in an orderly way.

We have noted the condemnation on the terrorist attack and condolences over Chinese victims from some countries. This is much appreciated. We reiterate that terrorism is a common enemy of humanity. Its the shared responsibility of the global community to fight terrorism and stop such tragedies from happening again. China firmly supports Pakistan in fighting terrorism. We are solid in our commitment to the safety and security of Chinese nationals, institutions and projects overseas. China and Pakistan have the resolve and capability to make the terrorists pay the price. Our two countries are all-weather strategic cooperative partners. Our iron-clad friendship is deeply rooted in the two peoples. No attempt to sabotage China-Pakistan cooperation will ever succeed. China will continue supporting Pakistans socioeconomic development and efforts to make lives better for its people, and we remain firm in our commitment to working with Pakistan in various fields and delivering more benefit to the two peoples.

Xinhua News Agency: Nauru President David Adeang is paying a state visit to China. Can you brief us on the visit? What important common understandings and results have been achieved during the visit? Whats Chinas expectation for the prospects of China-Nauru relations?

Lin Jian: At the invitation of President Xi Jinping, Nauru President David Adeang pays a state visit to China from March 24 to 29. During President Adeangs stay in Beijing, President Xi Jinping held talks with him and Premier Li Qiang and Chairman Zhao Leji met with him respectively.

President Xi Jinping noted during the talks that all friendships have a bright future, no matter when they began; and all cooperation based on sincerity, no matter its size, will be fruitful. The two presidents had in-depth exchange of views on growing China-Nauru relations and issues of common interests. They reached important common understandings, laid out top design and blueprint for growing the bilateral ties and ushered in a new chapter of the history of China-Nauru relations. After the talks, the two presidents witnessed the signing of bilateral cooperation documents in areas of Belt and Road cooperation, the Global Development Initiative implementation, economic growth and agriculture.

The two sides issued the Joint Statement Between the Peoples Republic of China and the Republic of Nauru. The two sides agreed that the resumption of diplomatic relations between China and Nauru on the basis of the one-China principle is in line with the trend of history and the times, and meets the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples. All countries, regardless of size, strength and wealth, are equals. The two sides will firmly support each other in upholding sovereignty, security and development interests. The two sides agreed to strengthen political mutual trust and mutually beneficial cooperation, and be good friends and good partners that respect each other and develop together.

This visit demonstrates the distinctive character and historical tradition of treating all countries as equals in Chinas diplomacy, and provides strong impetus for the growth of China-Nauru relations. China stands ready to work with Nauru to deliver on the important common understandings between the leaders of our two countries on all fronts, lend each other firm support, expand practical cooperation, and advance cultural and people-to-people exchanges to jointly benefit the two countries and peoples.

China News Service: When asked about Trumps threat to slap high tariffs on Chinese cars made in Mexico, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on March 25 that Mexico doesnt want to and will not wage a trade war with China. He mentioned that China will continue to invest in Mexico and Mexico has very positive economic ties with China and the US. He also appreciated Chinas assistance with relief supply procurement for Acapulco. Whats Chinas comment?

Lin Jian: China appreciates President Lopez Obradors positive statement on China-Mexico economic and trade ties. Both China and Mexico advocate a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization. China and Mexico are good friends and partners for common development. Mutual benefit is a defining feature of our economic ties. China stands ready to work with Mexico to deliver on the important common understandings reached by the two presidents at the summit meeting in San Francisco and deepen the China-Mexico comprehensive strategic partnership.

RIA Novosti: The UK High Court announced on March 26 that it has adjourned its final decision on the appeal of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange against his extradition to the US. He may continue to appeal to the UK court against his extradition to the US. What is Chinas comment on this?

Lin Jian: We noted the reports. WikiLeaks founded by Julian Assange brought to light a great amount of secret information behind the US wars on Afghanistan and Iraq and CIA-led hacking attacks. The world is watching what will happen to Assanges human rights conditions and what will become of him. Many have expressed sympathies for him. Justice should not be denied.

Reuters: Given the recent attack in Pakistan, we would like to ask if the new Pakistani Prime Minister Mr. Sharif will still be visiting Beijing?

Lin Jian: China and Pakistan maintain sound interactions at all levels. As for the specific visit you mentioned, I have nothing to share at the moment.

CCTV: Its reported that Amadou Ba, the candidate from Senegals ruling coalition, issued a statement on March 25 in which he conceded defeat in the presidential election and offered his congratulations to the opposition candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Whats Chinas comment?

Lin Jian: We noted those reports. Its good to see that Senegals presidential election was held in a peaceful and orderly way. We congratulate Bassirou Diomaye Faye on winning the election.

China and Senegal are good friends and brothers. China deeply values its ties with Senegal and stands ready to work with the new government of Senegal to deepen political mutual trust, expand practical cooperation and further advance our bilateral relations.

Bloomberg: President Xi Jinping met earlier today with 24 US corporate executives and other people. I saw Hua Chunying just posted a photograph for that meeting. Can you give us the names of everyone who attended? And can you also tell us what President Xi said at the meeting?

Lin Jian: This morning, President Xi Jinping met with representatives of US business, strategic and academic communities at the Great Hall of the People. President Xi Jinping shared with them Chinas position and views on Chinas development, China-US relations and business cooperation, among other topics. Some of the US participants also made remarks at the meeting. A readout will be issued very soon. Please check back for updates.

PTI: Sri Lankan Prime Minister is currently visiting China and has been holding meetings with the Chinese leadership. Can you provide us any details regarding discussions related to China-Sri Lanka debt relief efforts? Sri Lanka has been asking China to provide debt relief and China has been separately handling the debt-related issues with Sri Lanka other than the rest of the creditors that have given loans to Sri Lanka. Can you please provide some details regarding this?

Lin Jian: We have released information on Sri Lankas Prime Ministers visit to China which you may refer to.

China has provided support to Sri Lankas socioeconomic development to the best of our capacity. We stand ready to continue working with relevant countries and international financial institutions to support Sri Lanka in achieving debt sustainability. On your specific question, Id refer you to competent Chinese authorities.

Shenzhen TV: The 2024 Report on the Work of the Government calls for modernizing the industrial system and developing new quality productive forces at a faster pace. Many in the world believe that Chinas faster development of new quality productive forces will lay a solid foundation for high-quality development and provide impetus to the development and advancement of technology in other countries. Whats your comment?

Lin Jian: High-quality development is one of the intrinsic requirements of Chinese modernization. To develop new quality productive forces is what is needed and should be prioritized in seeking high-quality development. To advance new quality productive forces, the key is to boost Chinas own scientific innovation. In recent years, China has further implemented the innovation-driven development strategy and achieved fruitful results in areas such as manned spaceflight, quantum information, nuclear power technology and airliner manufacturing. What we have achieved in becoming an innovation-driven country has helped us better meet domestic demand and benefited people in other countries.

Chinas clean energy technology is a case in point. China is firmly committed to energy revolution. Weve put clean energy front and center in energy development. When developing clean energy at home, we have shared with the rest of the world Chinas technologies, products and initiatives, greatly contributing to global clean energy development. In 2023, 510 gigawatts of installed renewable energy capacity were added in the world, over half of which were added in China. New energy vehicle production and sales in China accounted for over 60 percent in the world. In Southeast Asia, Chinas clean energy companies are active investors. Viet Nam has become a major importer of Chinas wind turbines, and Thailand has become a major production base of photovoltaic industry. In Middle East countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Morocco and Qatar, Chinese companies are heavily involved in large-scale clean energy projects and fuel the local energy transition. In Africa, China has implemented over 100 clean energy and green development projects. We help Africa embark on a path of sustainable development and add new jobs for the locals.

Clean energy is just one example of how China contributes to global development by speeding up the growth of new quality productive forces. In such areas as digital economy and artificial intelligence, new quality productive forces also play an important role in advancing global development and countries technological transformation. Over the past year, guided by the path of Chinese modernization, China made all-out effort in promoting economic recovery and growth and accomplished main targets for economic and social development, contributing over 30 percent to global economic growth. Looking forward, China will continue to advance high-standard opening up, attract outcomes of innovation worldwide and high-quality advanced production factors and resources, and create favorable conditions for developing new quality productive forces. We are convinced that new products, new technologies and new business forms emerged from the growth of new quality productive forces will expand the space for global economic sharing and common development, and inject new vitality and impetus for global development.
The 44th annual Virginia Piedmont Regional Science Fair has come and gone, and the results are in.

Charlottesville-area students dominated the categories, taking home two-thirds of all first-place prizes. Charlottesville Catholic School students took home 11 of the 31 total first-place prizes, while Albemarle High School students won 10.

One of the fairs two grand winners also hails from the area.

Vidya Ambati, a junior at Albemarle High School, as well as Tamara Otten, a junior from Mountain Vista Governors School in Warrenton, were named the contests grand winners this past Saturday at the University of Virginias North Fork Discovery Park outside Charlottesville.

Ambatis project, submitted in the medicine and health sciences category, was titled Recasting an Anti-Psychotic As a Prevention for Multiple Arthritides: Discovery of a Novel Receptor and Mechanism of Action. Otten competed in the computer science category with a project titled Real or Fake? Using Artificial Intelligence to Detect Filtered Images.

As the grand winners, the pair will next head to Los Angeles, where they will represent the region in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. A weeklong event planned for later this May, the Regeneron fair is the worlds largest precollege STEM  or science, technology, engineering and mathematics  competition.

The Piedmont fairs two runner-ups are both juniors at Albemarle High School. First runner-up Sean Fus project was titled Generative AI-assisted Drug Identification and Cell Engineering to Suppress Medulloblastoma Cell Proliferation. Second runner-up Suah Kwons project was titled Development of an Efficient and Recyclable Method of Recovering Rare Earth Elements from Industrial Waste.

We had a great mix of projects, Adrian Felts, the fairs director, told The Daily Progress, that really highlighted the innovative ideas of the young people in our region.

The fair also had a strong mix of judges this year, thanks to a record-breaking number of applicants.

While the event usually has roughly 90 to 100 volunteers, it received roughly 130 applications this year, according to Felts.

A broad mix of nearly 120 local judges from UVa, various government agencies and several local technology companies volunteered to interview and select the winners, Felts said.

Outside of the grand winners, first-, second- and third-place winners were named in each of the 17 categories, a list that includes animal sciences, earth and planetary science and energy and transportation.

The first-place winners of the senior division, ninth- to 12th-graders, will automatically advance to the Virginia State Science and Engineering Fair held on April 13 at Old Dominion University in Norfolk. The top winners in the junior division, sixth- to eighth-graders, will move on to an online submission process for the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge. If selected, they will attend a project showcase held in October in Washington, D.C.

Judges also awarded 31 special prizes, some of which were sponsored by various organizations, such as the American Psychological Association, Booz Allen, the National Ground Intelligence Center and the Charlottesville Astronomical Society.

There were a few particularly unique awards among the special awards such as the Why Didnt I Think Of That? Award won by King George Middle School eighth-grader Corbin Gunther and his project titled Acoustic Levitator. Lakeside Middle Schools Micah Appiah was awarded the Next Thomas Edison Award for creating a 3D printed robotic prosthetic hand with added reflexes.

Some of those special award winners also won cash prizes. The four top winners of the Serving Society through Science Award received $650 in total. The senior winner of the Virginia Lakes & Watersheds Award, Marshall Howard of Mountain Vista Governors School, took home $100. The junior winner, Madeline Thomas of Donald B. Dixon-Lyle R. Smith Middle School, won $50.

More than 140 students from public, private, independent and home schools in Albemarle, Culpeper, Fauquier, Fluvanna, Green, King George, Louisa, Madison, Nelson, Orange, Rappahannock, Spotsylvania and Stafford counties and the city of Charlottesville participated in this years Virginia Piedmont Regional Science Fair.
Elevation and Topography to be held June 21 and 22

PENINSULA, Ohio , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) will welcome guests to an extraordinary evening in the park when it hosts Elevation on June 21 and Topography on June 22 . Both events are at iconic Indigo Lake , located off Riverview Road . Proceeds go toward the Trails Now Fund, which provides support for trail maintenance, visitor amenities, and new trailheads within Cuyahoga Valley National Park . Since the events began more than 12 years ago, Topography and Elevation have raised nearly $1.4 million for the park's more than 125 miles of trails.

"Our signature fundraisers, Elevation and Topography, are each a one-of-a-kind experience for people to come together and support the trails we love in our national park," said Dan Blakemore , vice president of philanthropy, for the Conservancy for CVNP. "We look forward to seeing you at these memorable events to enjoy time with good friends, great food, scenic views of Indigo Lake , live music, and campfires under the stars."

Elevation Topography A one-of-a-kind summer night that steps off with trail mix to complement your short hike to Indigo Lake . The party welcomes you with a steel drum band, activities in the meadow, a casual dinner via food trucks with beer and wine. The evening continues with dancing under the stars to Abby Normal and the Detroit Lean along with s'mores around the campfire. The evening begins at Howe Meadow with a short hike up a wooded path, a welcome cocktail in hand, and live music in the air. The trail ends at Indigo Lake , where you will enjoy a curated selection of hors d'oeuvres leading up to a one-of-a-kind dining experience with special wine pairings. Then, finish the evening with sweet bites around a crackling campfire. Evening catered by Spice Catering Co. Date: Friday, June 21, 2024 Date: Saturday, June 22, 2024 Time: 6:30pm  11:00pm Time: 6:30pm  11:00pm Cost: $100 per member ticket or $160 per non-member ( $25 and $85 , respectively, tax deductible) Cost: $350 per person ( $130 tax deductible) For Tickets: www.forcvnp.org/elevation For Tickets: www.forcvnp.org/topography





For sponsorship opportunities for Elevation and Topography, please contact Dan Blakemore , vice president of philanthropy, at [email protected]. For questions about the events or to register to attend, contact [email protected] or call Jess Livers , philanthropy operations & membership manager, at 330-657-2909 ext. 166.

Sponsors To Date for Elevation

Presenting Sponsor: The Davey Tree Expert Company; Peak: Cargill; Cascade Subaru; R. Mark Daye ; Eddy's Bike Shop; E&H Ace Hardware; The Sherwin-Williams Company; and Western Reserve Racing; Summit: ForTec Medical; and KeyBank; Base: American Farmland Trust; Dan and Maria Blakemore ; and Mark and Stacey Rusher .

Sponsors To Date for Topography

For All Times: ForTec Medical; HZW Environmental Consultants; Marcus Thomas LLC; and Tom and Diane Tyrrell ; For All Seasons: AB Bernstein/ Karyn Sullivan ; Akron Children's; Buckeye Elm Contracting; Cargill; Cascade Subaru; Gilbane; Heidelberg Distributing Company; Michelle and Dan Johnson ; Kastner Westman and Wilkins, LLC; James and Diana Snider ; and Welty; For All Trails: The J.M. Smucker Co.; and Western Reserve Racing.

About Conservancy for CVNP

The Conservancy for CVNP is the official friends group and philanthropic partner for Cuyahoga Valley National Park . With a mission to enrich people's lives and enhance our region by inspiring use, preservation and support of Cuyahoga Valley National Park , the Conservancy offers cultural and educational programming, co-manages the park's volunteer program, provides venues for weddings, meetings and special events, and operates park retail spaces. Learn more at www.forcvnp.org.

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ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) emerged as a standout presence at Routes Americas, held in Bogota, Colombia from March 19th to 21st . Led by Commissioner Joseph Boschulte of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism (DTO), the USVI delegation exemplified strategic prowess in advancing air access and fostering crucial partnerships within the aviation industry.

Throughout the event, the USVI delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with 13 key industry stakeholders, including major airlines such as American, Delta, Southwest, Spirit Airways, JetBlue, and United. Meetings were centered on growth strategies aimed at opening new gateways in high-demand markets, enhancing existing routes, and addressing seasonality shifts to maximize the Territory's tourism potential.

Commissioner Boschulte expressed enthusiasm about the outcome of the meetings, emphasizing the positive feedback received from airline partners. "Our participation at Routes Americas 2024 was instrumental in solidifying our partnerships with key airlines and furthering our efforts to enhance air access to the U.S. Virgin Islands . The positive feedback received reaffirms our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences for travelers."

The USVI delegation presented comprehensive market analysis and data, including previews of marketing campaigns, cooperative opportunities, and award-winning strategies. This proactive approach resonated well with airline representatives, who expressed eagerness to incorporate the insights into their future scheduling and network decisions.

Commissioner Boschulte also highlighted the remarkable success of the USVI's air access initiatives, reporting record-breaking results for the current winter season. "We are thrilled to report unprecedented growth in air arrivals, with exceptionally strong yields to both St. Thomas and St. Croix ," he stated. "The continued support from our airline partners emphasizes the promising outlook for tourism in the U.S. Virgin Islands ."

From January to August 2024 , the USVI is expected to experience a significant increase in air arrivals, with a remarkable 28% year-over-year growth compared to 2023 and a notable 18% year-over-year increase from January and February 2024 over the same period in 2022. Projections for the Continental US Winter 2023/2024 indicate a 25% increase compared to Winter 2022/2023 and a 15% increase versus 2021/2022.

Furthermore, specific data for St. Thomas (STT) and St. Croix (STX) reflects substantial growth trends. Projections for Continental US Winter (December  March) 2023/2024 show a 20% increase for STT and an impressive 48% increase for STX compared to Winter 2022/2023. Additionally, from January to August 2024 , STT has already experienced a 28% year-over-year growth compared to 2023 and an 11% increase versus 2022, while STX saw a 17% year-over-year growth compared to 2023 and an 18% increase versus 2022.

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism remains dedicated to building upon the momentum gained at Routes Americas 2024. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing air access, fostering partnerships, and delivering unparalleled travel experiences, the USVI looks forward to a bright future of sustainable growth and continued success in the tourism industry.

For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands and its offerings, please visit: https://www.visitusvi.com/

About the U.S. Virgin Islands

About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico , the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea . The three islands are St. Croix , St. John, and St. Thomas , where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry. No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico . Entry requirements for non- U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non- U.S. citizens. For more information about the United States Virgin Islands , go to www.VisitUSVI.com, follow us on Instagram (@visitusvi) and Twitter (@usvitourism), and become a fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/VisitUSVI).

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SOURCE U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
PARIS , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 24 , VAPORESSO unveiled its strategy upgrade at the VAPORESSO Vaping Ecosystem Strategy Conference of Europe in Paris, France . This upgrade involves extending the brand's product categories to meet consumer demands. By crafting a diverse range of products tailored to specific needs, VAPORESSO is building a comprehensive service ecosystem that encompasses three categories, ensuring a cohesive and integrated consumer experience. The upgrade also involves enhancing the localization layout in Europe , establishing a branch in Europe , and intensifying the development of localized operations within Europe . Both the comprehensive service ecosystem and the European localization layout underscores VAPORESSO's dedication to delivering top-quality, varied products and services to consumers.

A Comprehensive Service Ecosystem to Deliver Top-quality, Varied Products and Services to Consumers

Since its inception in 2015, VAPORESSO has been dedicated to providing consumers with high-quality vaping experiences through innovation-driven efforts and has become a leading brand in the global open-system vaping sector. With a keen eye on consumer preferences and a commitment to meeting their dynamic needs, VAPORESSO's strategic upgrade is set to guarantee the provision of superior products and exceptional service.

E-liquid stands at the heart of category innovation and device innovation, serving as a crucial element in fulfilling consumer preferences for taste and flavor. Therefore, VAPORESSO is expanding from open-system categories to include e-liquid products under its e-liquid brand DELICIU. In the future, as part of its goal to build a comprehensive service ecosystem, VAPORESSO may consider expanding its product portfolio to include pre-filled devices.

DELICIU, powered by VAPORESSO and positioned as a leading global e-liquid service brand, focuses on delivering unparalleled taste by authentically replicating original flavors using high-quality raw materials and top-tier manufacturing standards. This dedication to quality ensures seamless compatibility with all vaping devices going forward.

With this comprehensive service ecosystem, VAPORESSO aims to flourish across three categories, while continuously enhancing services, pursuing product innovation, and striving to deliver an expanded range of premium products to consumers.

A New European Branch to Serve as Central Hub and Foster Development in Europe

In its pursuit of excellence, VAPORESSO's European branch will serve as the central hub for the brand's operation in Europe , embodying the core of their market development plans in the region. It is committed to localizing and streamlining processes to enhance efficiency. This move is designed to work in close coordination with the headquarters in Shenzhen , enhancing the support provided to partners and contributing significantly to their success. Moreover, the branch will establish three centers including European Flavor and Sensory Research Center, European Product Design Center, and European Marketing Center for sustained growth and expansion in Europe .

These initiatives aim to penetrate the local market through taste experience, product quality, and marketing strategies, enabling the company to thoroughly establish its presence in the European market, delivering products and services that perfectly align with consumer preferences.

Continuous Efforts to Promote Harmonious Advancement of European Vaping Industry

VAPORESSO's this strategic upgrade is an innovative approach to exploring more possibilities in the vaping industry. With the establishment of its comprehensive service ecosystem and the strategic advancement of its European localization efforts, VAPORESSO is ready to pursue a wider range of business collaborations with partners, navigating the changing market landscape side by side and sharing the benefits of future market possibilities in Europe .

VAPORESSO is fully dedicated to supporting the sustainable development of the vaping industry in Europe . Starting with the supply chain, VAPORESSO commits to consistently offering high-quality products to ensure a reliable supply and maintain product standards. On the sales side, VAPORESSO plans to work closely with various partners to explore new collaborative opportunities and strengthen the industry as a whole. In addition, VAPORESSO intends to enhance the capabilities of retail stores, improving the shopping experience for consumers and supporting the growth of retail partners. By focusing on local needs in Europe and building a comprehensive service ecosystem, VAPORESSO is actively contributing to the healthy growth of the European vaping industry.

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SOURCE VAPORESSO
Webcast and conference call on April 26 at 7 a.m. PT ( 10 a.m. ET )

SEATTLE , March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE: WY) will release first quarter 2024 results on Thursday, April 25 , after the market closes. The company will then hold a live webcast and conference call the following day, on Friday, April 26 , at 7 a.m. Pacific ( 10 a.m. Eastern), to discuss the results.

To access the news release, live webcast and presentation online, visit the Investor Relations section on www.weyerhaeuser.com.

To join the conference call from within North America , dial 877-407-0792 (access code: 13742027) at least 15 minutes prior to the call. Those calling from outside North America should dial 201-689-8263 (access code: 13742027). Replays will be available for two weeks at 844-512-2921 (access code: 13742027) from within North America , and at 412-317-6671 (access code: 13742027) from outside North America .

ABOUT WEYERHAEUSER

Weyerhaeuser Company, one of the world's largest private owners of timberlands, began operations in 1900 and today owns or controls approximately 10.5 million acres of timberlands in the U.S. , as well as 14 million acres of timberlands managed under long-term licenses in Canada. Weyerhaeuser has been a global leader in sustainability for more than a century and manages 100 percent of its timberlands on a fully sustainable basis in compliance with internationally recognized sustainable forestry standards. Weyerhaeuser is also one of the largest manufacturers of wood products in North America and operates additional business lines around real estate, climate solutions, energy and natural resources, among others. In 2023, the company generated $7.7 billion in net sales and employed approximately 9,300 people who serve customers worldwide. Operated as a real estate investment trust, Weyerhaeuser's common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol WY. Learn more at www.weyerhaeuser.com.

For more information contact:

Analysts - Andy Taylor , 206-539-3907

Media  Nancy Thompson , 919-861-0342

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SOURCE Weyerhaeuser Company
FILE PHOTO: An Israeli military observation post overlooks Israel's border with Lebanon, amid ongoing cross-border hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, in northern Israel March 19, 2024. REUTERS/Carlos Garcia Rawlins/File Photo

By Jonathan Saul

KIBBUTZ SNIR, Israel (Reuters) - In an abandoned kibbutz in Israel's evacuation zone near the Lebanese border, Lior Shelef has stayed behind to keep watch as a reservist in a protection force. He still tends the cows and chickens, even as Hezbollah rockets keep coming closer.

The chicken coops had been damaged in a rocket attack and the frequent sound of explosions panics the animals.

"We don't know what will happen tomorrow. We don't know if the day will escalate to be worse or better," he said.

"If the chicken is very afraid because of the noise of the rockets, how it will affect her life? Maybe she will die from a heart attack."

Over 2,000 rockets have been fired from Lebanon into northern Israel since the outbreak of the war in Gaza, when Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah group launched a campaign of attacks in support of Hamas Islamists.

Around 100,000 Israelis have had to evacuate from the area around the northern border, as have tens of thousands of Lebanese from communities on the opposite side.

The evacuation has turned some of Israel's most productive farming communities into ghost towns, like Kibbutz Snir, which rears cows and chickens and grows avocados and some vegetables around 3 km from the Lebanese border.

Shelef said suppliers were not coming into the area due to the bombardments, making it hard for the skeleton staff to keep the farm fully functioning.

Israel's northern region accounts for a third of the country's agricultural land, and about 73% of its domestic egg production is concentrated in the Galilee and Golan regions, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development said.

Parts of southern Israel near the Gaza Strip have also been evacuated since Hamas fighters burst across the border on Oct. 7 in the deadly rampage that precipitated the war. Greenhouses and dairy farms have been damaged there, a hit to an agriculture sector that is the pride of a country founded on dreams of making the desert bloom.

In February the farm ministry said it would lift duties on imported eggs to meet needs for the upcoming Jewish festival of Passover in April, forecasting a drop in local production due in part to the security situation.

'ENDANGERING THEIR LIVES'

Devora Evgi, who was evacuated from the small farming community of Avivim on the Lebanese border where she raises chickens, said the coops there were still being maintained by a few people who had stayed behind.

"They know that they are literally endangering their lives each time they go to the coops," she said. "Hezbollah are constantly keeping them under surveillance and can fire a rocket suddenly at any time, with no warning."

Keeping the community going would depend on restoring security, she said. "I'm not going to hold down the front line like I have for my entire life if I don't have a way to make a living or security."

Israel has long fostered agricultural technology companies exploring ways to squeeze higher yields of higher-value crops from arid land.

Kiryat Shmona, a major city in Israel's upper northern region some seven kilometres from the Lebanese border, was being developed as a hub for food technology companies.

But since the city was evacuated last year, companies have left. On a recent visit, shops and homes were shuttered. Israeli military units patrolled the quiet streets.

The offices were mostly shut in a building used by Fresh Start, an early-stage agriculture tech investment company in the city. So were the adjacent offices of the 10 food tech start ups Fresh Start supports, though chief technology officer Tammy Meiron told Reuters the businesses were still operational from different locations elsewhere in Israel.

Apart from laboratory equipment left behind and school children's drawings on the walls, there was little sign of the cutting edge research work undertaken there.

"It's heartbreaking because it's empty. The town is empty," Meiron told Reuters as she looked out onto the lush green hills above her office window. "It was full of young people ... And now everything is neglected."

(Reporting by Jonathan Saul; Editing by Peter Graff)
The logo of giant online retailer Amazon AMZN.O is displayed at a logistics centre in Trapagaran, Spain, December 18, 2023. REUTERS/Vincent West/File Photo

WARSAW (Reuters) - Amazon has been fined 31 million zlotys ($7.8 million) in Poland for misleading customers about product availability and delivery dates, consumer watchdog UOKiK said on Wednesday.

The regulator said it had received complaints from customers who did not receive their orders.

"The average consumer has the right to assume that the purchase options, availability and delivery times offered by traders are not misleading," UOKiK head Tomasz Chrostny said in a statement.

Chrostny said that UOKiK had questioned practices such as displaying a time counter on the screen indicating a period in which the order should be placed without a guarantee that it will arrive within the timeframe given.

Amazon's press office said the company would appeal against the decision.

"While the vast majority of our deliveries arrive on time, customers can contact us in the rare event that they experience a delay or order cancellation, and we will make it right," it said in an emailed statement.

"Over the last year, we have collaborated with ... UOKiK, and proposed multiple voluntary amendments to continue to improve the customer experience on Amazon.pl. We strictly follow legal standards in all countries where we operate and we strongly disagree with the assessment and penalty issued by the UOKiK."

($1 = 3.9811 zlotys)

(Reporting by Alan Charlish; Editing by David Goodman)
FILE PHOTO: A member of the staff stands over a part of the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB) gas pipeline that will carry gas from Komotini to Stara Zagora in Bulgaria, in Komotini, Greece, July 8, 2022. REUTERS/Alexandros Avramidis/File Photo

By Susanna Twidale, Marwa Rashad and Nina Chestney

LONDON (Reuters) - The European Union will have plenty of gas in stock next winter and the remaining buyers of Russian pipeline gas in central Europe are working on alternative imports in case transit via Ukraine stops from January, analysts and companies said.

European gas prices have fallen to levels seen prior to Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine this year, touching a three-year low in February, as mild weather and high renewable power output curbed gas demand and reduced the amount of gas that has needed to be taken from storage.

However, a deal signed in 2019 between Ukraines Naftogaz and Russias Gazprom allowing Russian gas to flow via Ukraine is set to expire at the end of the year, raising fresh concern about potential disruptions to European gas supply.

Ukraine said earlier this month it does not plan to extend the deal although it's unclear whether it would allow a loophole whereby European companies could book the transit capacity themselves avoiding a direct deal between Russia and Ukraine.

With just a few days left of Europes winter gas season, which ends on March 31, Europes gas stores are 59% full, a record high for the time of year, Gas Infrastructure Europe data shows.

Europe is on course for another record high in start-of-summer inventories and it looks like the continent will again be on course to fill its storage sites (for next winter) early, said James Waddell, head of European gas and global LNG at consultancy Energy Aspects.

As part of EU mandates set following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Europes gas storage sites must be 90% full by Nov. 1.

Gas held in storage typically accounts for around a quarter of Europe's winter gas use, where it is a major heating fuel, and high stock levels should leave Europe well placed to meet supply next winter and avoid dramatic price shocks.

The most vulnerable countries in the EU are Austria and Slovakia as they still import a big chunk of their gas from Russia via Ukraine but even they say they are working on new sources of supply to limit the impact if supply is cut.

Gazprom has typically shipped around 40 million cubic metres (mcm) of gas a day via Ukraine transit routes in 2024, which if sustained would equate to an annualised rate of 14 billion cubic metres, or roughly 3.5% of total EU demand.

Around half of this gas goes to Austria via pipelines through Ukraine and then Slovakia. Austrias energy major OMV said it has prepared for scenarios in which Russian gas supplies are interrupted.

A company spokesperson told Reuters via email it has contracted long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) regasification capacity at the Gate terminal in Rotterdam. The Netherlands last year signed a five-year deal with Norways Equinor and has access to Europes spot markets.

Slovakia's SPP which also receives Russian gas via Ukraine said it continuously assesses gas market developments and the available options.

"The likely further loss of Russian gas will cause Europe to source gas from other places, where LNG will be the most important source," said Sindre Knutsson, senior vice president, gas and LNG Markets, Rystad Energy.

U.S. SUPPLY

Europe's supply will be bolstered by cargos of LNG from the United States which met almost 14% of EU gas demand last year, European Commission data showed, up from less than 4% just two years earlier.

A huge gap between U.S. and European gas prices, means Europe will remain an attractive destination for U.S. gas.

"At the moment, U.S. LNG is setting the price in Europe, said Edoardo Campanella, an energy economist at UniCredit.

Europe's benchmark TTF front-month gas price is currently around four times higher than the equivalent contract in the U.S.

Europe is also still receiving significant cargos of Russian LNG, which currently make up around 13-15% of Europe's total gas imports.

The war in Ukraine and sanctions on other products have led to questions about whether Russian LNG imports to Europe should be blocked, but without unanimity among member states on the issue Russian cargos are expected to continue to arrive next winter.

"Currently high gas inventories in Europe and gradually increasing U.S. LNG exports cannot provide open-ended protection from the supply risks that an EU ban on Russian LNG would create," said Jake Horslen, senior LNG analyst at Energy Aspects.

EU countries have so far avoided applying sanctions to imports of Russian gas or LNG, on which countries including Austria and Hungary are still heavily dependent.

Six analyst forecasts collated by Reuters estimated the benchmark Dutch TTF gas contract would be in a range of 29-37.5 euros per megawatt hour for the next winter period over Q4 2024 and Q1 2025, roughly equivalent to $9.25-$12 per million British thermal units (mmBtu) in U.S. and Asian gas pricing.

This compares with current prices of around 27.45 euros/MWh ($8.71/mmBtu).

Energy Aspect's Waddell however said an end to the Ukraine flows could add around 10 euros/MWh to gas prices this winter.

(Reporting By Susanna Twidale, Marwa Rashad and Nina Chestney in London, additional reporting by Jason Hovet in Warsaw; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
(Reuters) - At least eight people including Hezbollah fighters have been killed in Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon, security sources told Reuters on Wednesday.

Five were killed in a strike on the border village of Tair Harfa and a strike shortly afterward that hit a restaurant in the border town of Naqura killed at least another three people, the security sources and official Lebanese media said.

Iran-backed Hezbollah said it had launched dozens of rockets over the border at Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel early on Wednesday in response to deadly Israeli air strikes on the village of Hebbariyeh in southern Lebanon a day earlier.

Those air strikes near two towns in northeast Lebanon killed three Hezbollah militants, the heavily armed Shi'ite Muslim group said.

Israel and Hezbollah have been trading fire across the border since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in Gaza in October, in

the biggest escalation between the long-time enemies since a

month-long war in 2006.

(Reporting by Suleiman Al Khalidi; writing by Yomna Ehab; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Firefighters work at the site where a rocket landed after a lethal rocket strike on Israel, amid ongoing cross-border hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, at a factory in Kiryat Shmona, northern Israel March 27, 2024. REUTERS/Avi Ohayon

BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's Hezbollah said it launched dozens of rockets at Kiryat Shmona, an Israeli town over the border, early on Wednesday in response to deadly Israeli strikes on the village of Hebbariyeh in southern Lebanon a day earlier.

Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah have been trading fire across the border since the Israel-Hamas war erupted in Gaza, in the biggest escalation between the old enemies since a month-long conflict in 2006.

Both sides have said they do not want all-out war and are open to a diplomatic process but strikes have picked up this week after a lull in cross-border shelling.

Security sources in Lebanon said at least eight people including Hezbollah fighters were killed on Wednesday by Israeli airstrikes in the country's south.

Five were killed in the border village of Tair Harfa and at least three others in a restaurant in the border town of Naqura, the security sources and official Lebanese media said.

Israeli emergency services earlier said a rocket strike on Wednesday killed a factory worker in Kiryat Shmona following warning sirens in the area.

Paramedics from the MDA ambulance service said the man was pulled from the wreckage of the factory with severe wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.

At least seven people were killed in the Israeli strikes on Hebbariyeh, two Lebanese security sources told Reuters.

The Israeli strikes appeared to be aimed at the Shi'ite Muslim Hezbollah's emergency and relief centre in the village, the sources said.

Hezbollah earlier on Wednesday had condemned the attack on Hebbariyeh. Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon had already killed more than half a dozen medical personnel and rescue workers, according to Lebanon's health ministry.

On Tuesday, Israeli air strikes near two towns in northeast Lebanon killed three Hezbollah militants, the group posted on Telegram. Israel confirmed those strikes.

The Gaza war has spread beyond the enclave's borders to other parts of the Middle East and the Israeli military said pilots have stepped up practising long-range strikes across the northern border with Lebanon in a hint of further escalation.

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) froze its normal annual training when it began its campaign of air strikes against Gaza in response to the Oct. 7 Hamas attack but has gradually returned to training in recent weeks, it said.

"The training program will focus on increasing the IAF's readiness for war in the northern arena and in other arenas during prolonged combat," the military said in a statement.

The training will include "massive, long-range strikes, flying deep into enemy territory", it said.

Aside from the violence in Gaza and on the Israel-Lebanon border, Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis have been attacking ships in and around the Red Sea, while armed groups in Iraq with close ties to Iran have targeting bases hosting U.S. forces in Iraq.

(Reporting by Laila Bassam and James Mackenzie, Additional reporting by Suleiman al Khalidi; Writing by Enas Alashray and Clauda Tanios; Editing by Christopher Cushing, Michael Georgy, Andrew Heavens, Alex Richardson and Estelle Shirbon)
FILE PHOTO: The BlackRock logo is pictured outside their headquarters in the Manhattan borough of New York City, New York, U.S., May 25, 2021. REUTERS/Carlo Allegri/File Photo

(Reuters) - BlackRock was issued a legal warning by the U.S. state of Mississippi over "false and misleading statements to Mississippi investors" tied to its environmental, social and governance (ESG) investment strategies, according to a 33-page document released on Wednesday.

The Mississippi secretary of state Michael Watson and the state's Securities Division issued a 'summary cease and desist order' and served a warning to impose a multimillion-dollar administrative penalty on the New York-based money manager.

Mississippi's legal warning comes after Florida, Louisiana and Missouri have previously said they plan to pull investment mandates from the company, citing concerns that include impact on investor returns due to BlackRock's ESG efforts.

The world's largest asset manager has been at the forefront of scrutiny in some Republican-run states over its ESG policies. CEO Larry Fink said last year it lost around $4 billion in assets under management as a result of the political backlash.

"We operate in one of the most highly regulated industries in the country and are committed to following the law in every respect," BlackRock said in a statement to Reuters.

"Our only agenda is maximizing risk-adjusted returns for the funds our clients choose to invest in," it added.

Last year, the U.S. state of Tennessee said it sued the asset manager, alleging it breached consumer protection laws and downplayed the extent to which ESG considerations drive the firm's investment strategies.

BlackRock managed $10 trillion in assets as of Dec 31, 2023 and served clients in over 100 countries across the globe.

(Reporting by Mehnaz Yasmin in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri)
Sen. Tim Kaine was in Charlottesville Monday morning to visit Piedmont Virginia Community Colleges adult education center, where the Virginia Democrat said he wanted to learn how he could fine-tune legislation hes proposed for years that would expand access to federal grants to those seeking high-quality, short-term job training programs.

The students and faculty at PVCCs Thomas Jefferson Adult Career Education facility are among those who stand to benefit from Kaines Jumpstart Our Businesses By Supporting Students, or JOBS, Act. Kaine has introduced and reintroduced the bill since at least 2017, sometimes with significant and bipartisan support, but without much luck.

I felt like if I came here to visit and see what youre doing here, it would give me some good ideas about ways to improve the bill, Kaine told one of the English language classes he visited Monday.

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 that directs federal dollars to workforce training programs is up for reauthorization. Kaines bill would expand that funding to cover shorter-term job training programs for students eligible for federal Pell Grants.

Currently, workforce programs must be at least 15 weeks long in order to qualify for Pell Grants, which is federal assistance for individuals without a bachelors or professional degree in need of financial aid. The JOBS Act proposes changing that length to eight weeks, allowing students enrolled in short-term courses for job training credentials or licenses to also receive needs-based resources.

Weve long had the Pell Grant program to help students that have low and moderate income better afford college, but we never allowed Pell Grants to be used for high-quality career and technical education, said Kaine after his tour of the school. Many of those programs are offered on the community college campuses, but these students cant use Pell Grants to access them if theyre not sort of formatted like a traditional college semester. Thats not the best way to offer some career tech programs.

Carol Coffey, director of the Thomas Jefferson Adult Career Education program, was Kaines guide through the facility, located in offices behind the Ix Art Park in downtown Charlottesville. Her program provides English language learning and General Education Development, or GED, courses, completely free of charge to more than 800 individuals, many of them immigrants. The program also has facilities in Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene and Louisa counties.

The senator greeted individuals on their way to class Monday morning as Coffey showed him some of the literary works students had previously produced and read for the Virginia Festival of the Book, which wrapped in Charlottesville Sunday. While Kaine did not attend, he expressed interest in visiting the next festival.

Kaine also dropped in on some classes, where he talked through the specifics of his JOBS Act bill and asked students to provide feedback.

Students were not shy, telling Kaine that many of them face significant challenges to achieving their dreams of opening businesses, obtaining work visas and simply assimilating into American society. There was a number of students who said they held masters, medical and other professional degrees in their home countries; men and women who had been university professors, oncologists and more expressed frustration over being unable to practice the trades they had already trained for.

I think thats a really important takeaway that I hadnt thought a whole lot about, said Kaine. But after touring the class and talking to these students, it challenges me to think harder about that. We all can help. And if not, and we owe it to try, there may be other ways to do it.

Though PVCC's adult education classes typically fall within the 15-week range, meaning they already qualify for Pell Grants, the community college offers several shorter programs that do not. Piedmont Virginia Community College President Jean Runyon told The Daily Progress that a majority of the schools students are eligible for Pell Grants and enroll to earn a short-term, industry credential that leads to a job with a family-sustaining livable wage.

The community colleges Workforce Services Division offers courses that provide various certifications, such as HVAC maintenance certificates and commercial drivers licenses. Runyon said the division is working to implement six new programs to meet the needs of an evolving world, including certifications for electrical vehicle technicians and training for solar panel installation.

One of the skills that we should fund is not just language acquisition, but digital skills and computer fluency. Thats now a requirement for so many jobs, said Kaine. More resources and a broader definition of what the skills are. I heard that loud and clear.

One point Kaine emphasized throughout his visit was that supporting low-income individuals in their journey to further their education will also benefit business owners, as the name of his bill suggests. With the unemployment rate at 3.9%, employers are struggling to find qualified workers, especially to fill entry-level positions.

The JOBS Act would extend federal support to training programs that fulfill the needs of the workforce, according to Kaine. The Virginia Community College System has identified a number of industries lacking sufficient employees, including health care, manufacturing, building trades, information technology and business management.

I know the PVCC staff and leaders who are working with the adult education center, theyre looking at a number of students who are coming through these classes and theyre going to PVCC to continue their education in the technical fields, said Kaine. Health care and technology, those jobs are going to be in Charlottesville for a very long time, and people whove come through these programs are going to be well-suited to have those jobs.

Labor legislation isnt the only solution Kaine has in mind to address the nationwide worker shortage. Several students told him how their current visa status bars them from holding a job despite their desire or previous experience in the field.

Everywhere I go in Virginia  people are talking about Its really hard, the unemployment rate is so low and we need to hire more people, said Kaine. Most of us see a better functioning immigration system as the most important way to answer that."

A lot of people, when they hear immigration, the first thing they think of is the border. The first thing we should think of is the workforce, he continued.

While it may be training the individuals needed to bolster the economy, PVCCs Thomas Jefferson Adult Career Education program lacks the resources to assist the number of individuals seeking its services.

We cannot serve everyone coming to our door, Coffey told the senator at a roundtable discussion after his tour. We would like to not turn anyone away, but we cant.

The federal government currently spends roughly $30 billion every year on its Pell Grant program. In 2019, the Congressional Budget Office projected that Kaines JOBS Act would increase this annual spending by 0.6%, costing around $190 million per year.

Kaine is once again optimistic that the bill will get passed, given it has already received bipartisan support. Jobs, he said, are one of the few priorities that builds bridges across the aisle.

I feel like no matter what the lineup  whoevers president, whoevers got the majority in either house  JOBS is moving forward, he said.

The senator did not have a chance to see much of Charlottesville on his trip as he had an afternoon obligation in Lynchburg and was scheduled to meet with Roanoke County officials, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and National Park Service on Tuesday morning in Roanoke to discuss supporting outdoor recreation in the commonwealth.
FILE PHOTO: Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro reacts at an event at the Municipal Theatre in Sao Paulo, Brazil March 25, 2024. REUTERS/Amanda Perobelli/File Photo

By Rodrigo Viga Gaier

RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - Brazilian police are investigating why former president Jair Bolsonaro spent two nights at the Hungarian embassy in Brasilia last month right after his passport was seized in an investigation into an alleged military coup plot, a source with knowledge of the matter said on Tuesday.

The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told Reuters the police report on the probe will be sent to Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who ordered the investigation into an alleged plan for a military coup after Bolsonaro was defeated in October 2022 by leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Bolsonaro has denied any involvement in a conspiracy, but the former commanders of the army and air force earlier this month told police in depositions that Bolsonaro had asked them to join plans for a coup. They said they refused to join.

Bolsonaro's stay at the embassy of Hungary between Feb. 12 and 14 was first reported by the New York Times on Monday, based on security camera footage that showed him entering the diplomatic compound.

On Feb. 8, police had seized Bolsonaro's passport and accused him of editing a draft decree to overturn the results of the 2022 election, pressing military chiefs to join a coup, and planning to jail Moraes.

Moraes has set a deadline of Wednesday for Bolsonaro to explain to the top court the purpose of his stay, court officials said.

Bolsonaro's lawyer, Fabio Wajngarten, said on social media on Monday evening that the ex-president was at the embassy "to maintain contact with officials of the friendly country" and "get updates on the political landscape of both nations".

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a nationalist who has been in power for 14 years, is a political ally of the far-right Bolsonaro. The Hungarian embassy in Brasilia did not reply to a Reuters request for comment.

Since leaving power, Bolsonaro has maintained close relations with Orban, whom he called his "brother" during a 2022 visit to Budapest. The two met this year during the inauguration of Argentina's right-wing President Javier Milei.

Last year a Brazilian court ruled that Bolsonaro is ineligible for political office until 2030 for spreading electoral misinformation during the 2022 election.

He is also facing potential criminal charges for fraud related to his COVID-19 vaccination card.

(Reporting Rodrigo Viga Gaier; Writing by Steven Grattan; Editing by Anthony Boadle and Michael Perry)
FILE PHOTO: An aerial view shows the brine pools of SQM lithium mine on the Atacama salt flat in the Atacama desert of northern Chile, January 10, 2013. REUTERS/Ivan Alvarado//File Photo

SANTIAGO (Reuters) - Chile's mining minister on Wednesday urged Chilean miner SQM and China's Tianqi Lithium Corp, a major shareholder in the company, to resolve their ongoing spat, but refrained from weighing into their private matter.

Tianqi, which holds about 20% of SQM shares, last week raised concerns over transparency in the firm's talks on a partnership with state copper producer Codelco. The Chinese company's view was later challenged by SQM's board chairman.

"We naturally urge the internal differences that SQM may have with its partners to be resolved," Mining Minister Aurora Williams told reporters, adding however that she had "no opinion" on how the firm deals with its board and shareholders.

"It is not our place to give an opinion on that."

(Reporting by Alexander Villegas; editing by Jason Neely)
Prime Minister Mark Rutte (R) of the Netherlands welcomes China's President Xi Jinping on the second day of his state visit, at The Hague March 23, 2014. REUTERS/Paul Vreeker/United Photos/File Photo

By Ryan Woo and Ella Cao

BEIJING (Reuters) -Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Wednesday downplayed conflict between the Netherlands and China over restrictions on the export of equipment made by Dutch firm ASML, following a meeting with President Xi Jinping in Beijing.

Earlier this year, the Dutch government began denying licences for ASML to export advanced "DUV" tool lines to China, joining a U.S. effort to curb chip exports to the world's second-biggest economy.

Now in doubt is whether The Hague will allow ASML to continue servicing the billions of euros worth of advanced equipment it has already sold to Chinese customers that now falls under export restrictions when current licences expire.

Rutte declined to take questions on whether his government may deny licences for ASML, the biggest maker of equipment for computer chip makers, to continue maintaining tools for those Chinese customers, as desired by Washington.

The Netherlands makes sure "when it's about our semiconductor sector and companies like ASML, when we have to take (export restriction) measures, that they are never aimed at one country specifically, and we always try to make sure the impact is limited," Rutte said.

His remarks reflect the diplomatic tightrope on which the Dutch government must walk, with ASML now a focus in the U.S-China "chip war".

One of Xi's top policy goals has been to help China build up its domestic chipmaking industry, spending billions on subsidies. Meanwhile the U.S. government is seeking to undermine China's ability to make its own chips, and has enlisted aid from the Dutch and Japanese governments.

Xi told Chinese state media he had warned Rutte against "decoupling and breaking links" with China, which is ASML's second-largest market after Taiwan.

"The Chinese people also have the legitimate right to development, and no force can stop China's scientific and technological development and progress," he told Rutte.

The export curbs so far have had only a modest impact on the financial performance of ASML, which dominates the global market for lithography systems - tools vital in helping to create the circuitry of computer chips.

But in the longer term if the Netherlands is seen as an unreliable business partner, Chinese chip makers may seek to replace ASML equipment when possible with that of domestic firm SMEE, or Japanese rivals such as Nikon and Canon, which compete with ASML in some segments.

(Reporting by Ryan Woo and Ella Cao; additional reporting by Toby Sterling, Bart Meijer, Anthony Deutsch; Editing by Michael Perry and Alex Richardson)
Flags representing Commonwealth countries fly at the Kigali Convention Centre, the venue hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Kigali, Rwanda June 22, 2022. REUTERS/Jean Bizimana/ File Photo

By Cordelia Hsu

SYDNEY (Reuters) -Climate change and efforts to keep up with advances in artificial intelligence top the agenda for a Commonwealth meeting set for the small Pacific Islands nation of Samoa in October, the grouping's secretary general said.

The Commonwealth, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, is a voluntary club of 56 nations headed by King Charles, having evolved out of the British empire and spanning 2.5 billion people, with 11 Pacific nations among its members.

"This is not a threat about extinction tomorrow, many of them are thinking, it is extinction today," Patricia Scotland said of the climate change risks that make small Pacific nations particularly vulnerable.

"If we look at what's happened in countries like Vanuatu and Nauru and all of them, they see this rise in sea level and the rise in temperature as an imminent threat," she said, speaking from the Samoan capital of Apia.

Samoa, with a population of about 218,000, will be the first Pacific small island state to host the annual Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting, putting the spotlight on climate change.

Scotland is visiting Samoa for a week to discuss arrangements for the meeting, ranging from venues to security and telecommunications, the island's government said.

The grouping wanted to put climate finance advisers in member nations to boost fund-raising efforts to tackle the fallout of climate change, Scotland said.

Other topics for discussion are artificial intelligence and digitalisation of the global economy.

"If the small and developing states are left behind, then their opportunity to take advantage of that huge potential increase in development and opportunity is going to be gone," she added.

A Commonwealth spokesman said plans for the Samoa summit factor in the attendance of King Charles, set to give his first speech as head of the grouping after missing this month's annual Commonwealth Day event to recover from cancer treatment.

(Reporting by Cordelia Hsu; Writing by Kirsty Needham in Sydney; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
FILE PHOTO: Viktor Medvedchuk talks to the media after a court hearing in Kyiv, Ukraine May 13, 2021. A Ukrainian court ordered Medvedchuk to be placed under house arrest after prosecutors opened an investigation that suspects him of treason. REUTERS/Vale

PRAGUE (Reuters) - The Czech government on Wednesday sanctioned two people including pro-Russian Ukrainian politician Viktor Medvedchuk and the news website voiceofeurope.com for leading a pro-Russian influence operation in Europe, the Czech Foreign Ministry said.

Medvedchuk, who was transferred to Russia in 2022, had been covertly financing the Czech-registered Voice of Europe's influence operations ahead of this year's European Parliamentary election, including financial support for European politicians, the ministry said.

The pro-Russian influence campaign was aimed against Ukraine's "territorial integrity, sovereignty and liberty," the ministry said. The sanctions would help Czechia's security and "protect democratic conduct" during the impending European Parliament elections, it said.

Medvedchuk is a business magnate and former parliamentarian who was sent to exile in Russia in 2022 in exchange for Ukrainian prisoners of war. He was stripped of Ukrainian citizenship.

Also sanctioned over the same activity was Ukrainian and Israeli citizen Artem Marchevskyi, who led Voice of Europe under Medvedchuk's instructions, the ministry said, using the website to spread anti-Ukrainian propaganda and disinformation.

The government's sanctions list said Medvedchuk used the firm and Marchevskyi "in multiple EU member states for financing cooperation with journalists and for covert financial support for selected individual candidates in the European Parliament election, with the aim of supporting the foreign policy interests of the Russian Federation."

Reuters was not able to reach Medvedchuk or Marchevskyi for comment on the sanctions.

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala told a news conference the sanctioned persons' activities were aimed outside the Czech Republic, to help Russia gain influence in EU countries and eventually in the European Parliament.

He said the decision to impose the sanctions was based on information from Czech secret service agency BIS.

BIS said on social network X that it had uncovered the activities of a Russian-financed influence network in the Czech Republic.

"The BIS action discovered how Russia uses influence on European Union member states' territory and how it tries to influence political processes in our countries," it said.

Being sanctioned entails the freezing of the financial accounts of the subjects involved.

Voice of Europe did not immediately respond to Reuters' questions.

(Reporting by Jan Lopatka; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
By Hyonhee Shin

SEOUL (Reuters) - A minor South Korean opposition party launched by disgraced former justice minister Cho Kuk has emerged as potentially the strongest spoiler to the chances of either of its two major parties securing a majority in next month's parliamentary election.

Cho, a liberal and confidante of former President Moon Jae-in, is likely to ally  but not merge - with the democrats who currently have a majority in parliament. He has mainly been courting Democratic Party (DP) members disenfranchised by party leader Lee Jae-myung, once an archrival of Moon.

Both Cho and Lee are involved in criminal cases for separate fraud and corruption charges - which they deny - but their alliance could prove problematic for conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, a former top prosecutor whose meteoric political rise came after he clashed with his predecessor Moon while leading the fraud investigation into Cho's family.

Cho said his aim is for the opposition camp to gain sufficient seats in the election to make Yoon a "dead duck" president.

"If the Democratic Party and our party secure significant numbers, we can create a crack in Yoon's administration," Cho told a news conference on Wednesday.

"We can make him a lame duck first, and then a dead duck. I don't know whether that person will be able to finish his remaining three years or he will be impeached, but our goal is to politically incapacitate him."

Yoon's office did not immediately response to a request for comment.

Cho's Rebuilding Korea Party is aiming for at least 10 seats, a fraction of the single-chamber, 300-seat assembly, but with polls showing the election too close to call it may be enough to prevent either of the two main parties winning an outright majority.

Yoon's People Power Party and the DP should get at least 110 and 82 of the 254 elective seats, respectively, in the April 10 election, according to an analysis released on Tuesday by the Yonhap news agency based on internal party surveys and pollster estimates.

Some 60 areas are deemed too close to call or minor party strongholds, and 46 proportional representation seats will be allocated to each party based on the total number of votes cast.

Cho's party is only in the race for the proportional representation seats, but is seen by pollsters as the only minor group to get 10 or more seats in the assembly.

People Power said it had no information to offer, but Han Dong-hoon, a former fellow prosecutor who currently heads the party, has described Cho and Lee as "extremists" and their coalition as a "harmful collusion," saying they were seeking to impeach Yoon to serve their own personal interests, retaliate against the country's justice system and destroy democracy, diplomacy and the economy.

Cho is awaiting a Supreme Court review after a lower court sentenced him to two years in prison for fabricating documents to facilitate his children's school admissions.

The scandal divided the already polarised country and frustrated many young voters, and eventually contributed to the downfall of Moon's government and Yoon's victory in the 2022 presidential election, with Lee taking over the DP leadership.

Cho has said he respects the court rulings, but noted Yoon and Han did not face any investigations into alleged irregularities involving their own families, a claim that both have previously dismissed.

(Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)
Packages are transported on a conveyor belt at the Amazon warehouse, busy on Prime Day, in Melville, New York, U.S., July 11, 2023. REUTERS/Soren Larson/File photo

By Foo Yun Chee and Inti Landauro

BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Amazon on Wednesday lost its fight to suspend a requirement regarding its online advertising under EU tech rules after Europe's top court backed EU regulators, saying EU interests outweigh the U.S. online retailer's material interests.

Under the Digital Services Act (DSA) which kicked in last year, Amazon was designated as a very large online platform subject to tough rules to tackle illegal and harmful content on its platform.

The company subsequently challenged a DSA requirement to make publicly available a repository containing detailed information on its online advertising and also asked for an interim measure until the court rules on the case.

A lower tribunal in September agreed to its request for an interim measure to suspend the contested obligation, which prompted the European Commission to turn to Europe's top court.

The Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) set aside the suspension order and dismissed Aamzon's application for an interim measure.

The judge said that Amazon's argument that the obligation unlawfully limits its fundamental rights to respect for private life and the freedom to conduct a business was not irrelevant.

He also said that without a suspension, it was likely that Amazon would suffer serious and irreparable harm before any judgment annulling the Commission's decision.

However, he said a suspension could have a detrimental impact on the objectives of the DSA.

"Suspension would lead to a delay, potentially for several years, in the full achievement of the objectives of the Regulation on a Single Market for Digital Services and therefore potentially allow an online environment threatening fundamental rights to persist or develop," the judge said.

"The interests defended by the EU legislature prevail, in the present case, over Amazon's material interests, with the result that the balancing of interests weighs in favour of rejecting the request for suspension."

Amazon said: "We are disappointed with this decision, and maintain that Amazon doesn't fit the description of a 'Very Large Online Platform' (VLOP) under the DSA, and should not be designated as such."

The case is C-639/23 P(R) | Commission v Amazon Services Europe.

(Reporting by Inti Landauro;Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta and David Evans)
FILE PHOTO: A view of Cobre Panama mine of Canadian First Quantum Minerals, one of the world's largest open-pit copper mines, during a media tour, in Donoso, Panama, January 11, 2024. REUTERS/Tarina Rodriguez/File Photo

By Julian Luk and Divya Rajagopal

LONDON/TORONTO (Reuters) -Executives from Canadian miner First Quantum Minerals met with Chinese government officials last week to discuss funding and business options involving top investor Jiangxi Copper Co, three sources with knowledge of the matter said.

The talks in Jiangxi province included topics such as the potential for state-run Jiangxi Copper, China's leading producer, to gain influence on First Quantum's board decisions, two of the sources said. Also discussed was the future of First Quantum's Zambian assets and the prospect of Jiangxi buying its disputed copper concentrates inventory from Panama, they said.

Shares of First Quantum were up 5% in late morning trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Since November last year, Jiangxi has invested about $745 million in First Quantum through debt, equity and a prepayment copper deal. Still, despite being one of the biggest shareholders, Jiangxi does not have any say in board decisions.

Under a standstill agreement, Jiangxi is prevented from buying more than a 20% equity stake in First Quantum. It currently holds 18.4%.

It was not clear whether there would be further new investments after the meeting, one of the sources said.

First Quantum declined to comment, while Jiangxi Copper did not respond to queries from Reuters by email or phone.

Relations between Jiangxi and First Quantum have been volatile since 2019, when the Chinese miner invested $1 billion, fuelling speculation it was preparing for a hostile takeover.

However, Jiangxi was a firm supporter during recent turbulence for the Canadian company, buying bonds and shares over the past four months.

"By far they (Jiangxi) have been the most useful partner for the company," said an official aware of First Quantum's operations.

First Quantum has shed some C$8 billion or $5.89 billion in market capital since Panama's government ordered the shutdown of the Cobre Panama mine late last year following sustained local protests.

The sudden closure order of Cobre Panama, accounting for 40% of First Quantum's revenue, dealt a blow to investor confidence and led to a cut in its debt rating.

First Quantum announced measures in February that included offering $1 billion worth of common shares and a copper pre-payment agreement with Jiangxi worth $500 million. Jiangxi also purchased $212 million of First Quantum shares earlier in March.

First Quantum has been negotiating with the Panama government for a resolution of the dispute. One of the discussions has centred on selling copper concentrate to pay for care and maintenance of the disputed mine.

Jiangxi Copper accounted for one-fifth of China's total production last year and is one of the world's top buyers of mined copper raw material and, like other copper smelters, it faces an acute shortage of feedstock.

Reuters reported earlier Jiangxi Copper was in talks to acquire a stake in First Quantum's Kansanshi mine in Zambia.

($1 = 1.3562 Canadian dollars)

(Reporting by Julian Luk; Divya Rajagopal; Editing by Veronica Brown and Bernadette Baum)
Protesters take part in a demonstration against Finland's government's planned labour market reforms and proposed cuts to the social welfare system at Senate Square in Helsinki, Finland, February 1, 2024. REUTERS/Essi Lehto/ File photo

HELSINKI (Reuters) - Finland's industrial, logistics and electrical workers have agreed to extend strikes in protest against planned labour market reforms to a fourth week, the head of trade union association SAK said on Wednesday.

The workers have been on strike since March 11, targeting exports, imports and cargo transportation.

"The strikes will continue from Monday morning onwards for a week," SAK President Jarkko Eloranta told Reuters. "We are trying to negotiate and compromise with the government but unfortunately there has been no response to these efforts."

Several of Finland's largest companies have said the strikes, which are disrupting ports and the rail system, are negatively affecting their operations.

Employers' organisation EK said in a statement that SAK had not presented credible alternatives to the planned reforms. It estimated that the strikes had a negative effect on GDP of nearly 300 million euros ($325 million).

($1 = 0.9233 euros)

(Reporting by Essi Lehto, writing by Anna Ringstrom; editing by Jason Neely)
A volunteer works to contain the flames amid wildfires in the state of Veracruz, in Huiloapan de Cuauhtemoc, Mexico March 26, 2024. REUTERS/Oscar Martinez

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - A wave of wildfires in Mexico has claimed at least four lives, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador told reporters on Wednesday.

The reported deaths all come from Mexico state, the country's most populous which rings the capital, the president said. There are currently 116 forest fires burning across the nation.

Around 400 fires have been documented in Mexico through March 15, torching a total of more than 13,000 hectares (32,000 acres), with some of the blazes reported as far south as Chiapas state, on the border with Guatemala.

According to official data, the causes include both intentionally set fires as well as those caused by agricultural activities.

(Reporting by Raul Cortes Fernandez; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
A pedestrian was fatally struck by tractor-trailer Monday on State Route 3 in eastern Culpeper County.

Virginia State Police is investigating the crash that occurred at 4:05 p.m. on March 25, along the 19000 block of Germanna Highway in the village of Stevensburg.

A 2019 Peterbilt tractor-trailer was traveling east on Route 3 when a pedestrian suddenly ran north into the eastbound travel lanes, according to a release from Virginia State Police spokesman Brent Coffey.

The tractor-trailer was unable to avoid striking the pedestrian and immediately stopped at the scene.

The pedestrian, Gustavo M. Valdez, 59, of Culpeper, died at the scene of the crash due to his injuries.

The driver of the tractor-trailer, a 52-year-old man from Hopewell, was not injured in the crash. He was wearing a seatbelt.

The crash remains under investigation, Coffey said.

This is the second fatal crash involving a pedestrian in the county in less than a week. A 71-year-old Spotsylvania man walking on Route 229 at night on March 20 was fatally struck by a truck in another Culpeper wreck being investigated by state police.

From the Archives: The old Virginia State Penitentiary
PARIS (Reuters) - French lawmakers will vote on Thursday on much-debated draft legislation that would outlaw discrimination against dreadlocks, braids, afros and any other hair style, colour or texture.

Olivier Serva, a Black MP from the French overseas territory of Guadeloupe, who drafted the bill, said it would allow victims of discrimination, which he says has "devastating impact", to win their cases in court.

"It's necessary to spell out clearly in our law that discrimination based on hair is illegal," he said.

"There is a lot of suffering (based on hair discrimination) and we need to take this into account," he told Reuters.

Serva cited a 2023 study by Dove and LinkedIn that showed that two out of three Black women in the United States changed their hair for a job interview, and that Black women's hair was 2.5 times more likely to be perceived as unprofessional.

In the United States, at least 23 states have passed legislation aimed at protecting people from hair discrimination in the workplace and public schools.

But in France, which prides itself on a culture of universalism that states that all people are equal, and which does not allow ethnic quotas, or even collecting data based on ethnicity, not all back the proposal.

Conservative and far-right MPs, in particular, disagree with it.

Fabien Di Filipo, an MP for the conservative Les Republicains, argues that, since there already is legislation that bans discrimination based on looks, the draft bill is redundant.

Speaking in the parliamentary committee that discussed the draft ahead of the full-house debate, he said: "Should we tomorrow expect a bill on discrimination against bald people, which I think are underepresented in shampoo ads?"

The bill, Di Filipo said, aims to import a U.S. mindset in French legislation.

Serva rejected the argument, saying that there is equal suffering from hair discrimination on both sides of the Atlantic.

The bill, which aims to ban all discrimination against hair texture or hair cuts, would also protect blond women from sexist discrimination.

(Reporting by Ingrid Melander; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
(Reuters) -The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) said on Wednesday it would loan Holtec International $1.52 billion to help restart an 800MW nuclear power plant in Michigan that was shut down in 2022, potentially making it the first nuclear plant to be recommissioned in the United States.

The conditional loan by the Energy Department's loan program office was authorized through passage of the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022. The loan is dependent on Holtec meeting several technical, legal, environmental, and financial conditions, according to the DOE loan office.

The Biden administration has said that nuclear energy will play a key role in decarbonizing the country's power grid by 2035 and the entire economy by 2050.

The re-started Palisades plant would avoid 4.47 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually for a total of 111 million tonnes of CO2 emissions during its projected 25 years of operation.

Florida-based Holtec said the plant would employ more than 600 workers, with about 45% of the workforce at the site coming from union labor once it's restarted.

The company also plans to build what will be its first two small modular reactor (SMR) units at the site, which will not be part of the project that is eligible for the loan.

NuScale's SMR technology is the only one to have received design certification from the U.S. nuclear power regulator last year. But the company has faced cost and subscription issues and had to shelve one of its SMR projects.

Holtec originally bought Palisades in 2022 from Entergy to decommission the plant as it struggled to compete with natural gas-fired plants and renewable energy, but started looking into reopening the shut reactor.

The company has also already signed long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with electric co-ops Wolverine Power Cooperative and Hoosier Energy in Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana.

Holtec is pursuing a reauthorization of the Palisades operating license with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Reuters in January reported that the company was in talks for the loan from the DOE for the plant.

(Reporting by Seher Dareen in Bengaluru and Valerie Volcovici in Washington; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli and Bill Berkrot)
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China March 27, 2024. China Daily via REUTERS

BEIJING (Reuters) - Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said he had discussed an incident of cyberespionage the Netherlands has blamed on the Chinese state during talks with President Xi Jinping on Wednesday.

Chinese state-backed cyber spies gained access to a Dutch military network last year, the intelligence agency MIVD said last month, calling it part of a trend of Chinese political espionage against the Netherlands and its allies.

It was the first time the Dutch publicly attributed cyberespionage to China, as national security tensions grow between the two countries. They are also in a confrontation over restrictions of exports of high-tech semiconductor equipment made by Dutch giant ASML to China.

Beijing routinely denies allegations of cyberespionage and says it opposes all forms of cyberattack.

U.S. and British officials on Monday filed charges, imposed sanctions and accused Beijing of a sweeping cyberespionage campaign that allegedly hit millions of people including lawmakers, academics and journalists, and companies including defence contractors.

"Of course we discuss all difficult topics," including cyberattacks, Rutte told reporters after the talks in Beijing.

"Of course this has been very openly attributed to China by the Netherlands. It was an attack on the Dutch Ministry of Defence that our MIVD has identified and also attributed to China. So yes, of course, I discussed it."

Tensions between Beijing and Western powers over issues related to cyber espionage have been rising as Western intelligence agencies increasingly sound the alarm on Chinese state-backed hacking activity. China has also begun in recent years to call out alleged Western hacking operations.

(Reporting by Ryan Woo and Ella Cao; Additional reporting by Anthony Deutsch in Amsterdam and James Pearson in London; Editing by Alex Richardson)
Member of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Delhi's Education Minister, Atishi, looks on during an interview with Reuters in New Delhi, India March 27, 2024. REUTERS/Sharafat Ali

By Shivam Patel

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's opposition alliance needs to stick together to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an upcoming national election following the arrest of one of its leaders on bribery allegations, one of its parties said on Wednesday.

A powerful government agency last week arrested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the founder of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and a staunch Modi critic.

Kejriwal, who denies the charges of corruption, is one of the highest profile leaders of the 27-member opposition "INDIA" alliance that has struggled to work together and bickered over seat-sharing ahead of the election beginning April 19.

A key test of their unity would be on Sunday, at a protest rally in Delhi to which AAP has invited all opposition parties.

"In this current election, it's imperative for all opposition parties to come together," said Delhi Finance Minister Atishi, one of the only few senior AAP leaders not yet in jail.

"At this stage, this election is not about Aam Aadmi Party or the Congress or the Trinamool Congress or the Samajwadi Party," she said in an interview, referring to other main opposition parties. "This election is about saving the constitution of the country."

Modi is widely expected to win a third straight term, according to opinion polls.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED), which arrested Kejriwal, can conduct searches and make arrests without a warrant. It has summoned, questioned or raided nearly 150 politicians from the opposition since Modi took power in 2014. In that time it has targeted four politicians from Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Opposition parties accuse the BJP-run federal government of using the ED and other agencies to target their leaders for political gain.

The BJP has said that investigators were just following the law and Modi said earlier this month that "all agencies are completely independent to act against corruption". The ED has said it operates without discriminating between political parties.

(Reporting by Shivam Patel in New Delhi; Editing by Alex Richardson)
Arvind Kejriwal, chief of Aam Aadmi (Common Man) Party (AAP), addresses his supporters after taking the oath as the new chief minister of Delhi during a swearing-in ceremony at Ramlila ground in New Delhi February 14, 2015. REUTERS/Anindito Mukherjee/ Fil

By Sudipto Ganguly and Kanishka Singh

MUMBAI/ WASHINGTON (Reuters) -India strongly objected on Wednesday to U.S. remarks about its "internal affairs" after the arrest of Delhi's chief minister, a government rival, and the freezing of opposition Congress party bank accounts ahead of an election.

Arvind Kejriwal, whose Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) governs the national capital territory and the northern state of Punjab, was arrested last week by the federal financial crime-fighting agency on corruption charges, weeks before Indians head to the polls from April 19.

AAP, all of whose main leaders are now imprisoned in connection with the case, says Kejriwal has been "falsely arrested" in a "fabricated case".

It has an electoral alliance with the Congress party and others who aim to challenge Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party.

On Wednesday, India summoned the acting U.S. deputy chief of mission in New Delhi following a State Department comment on Monday that it was closely following reports of Kejriwal's arrest and that it encouraged a fair legal process.

"India's legal processes are based on an independent judiciary which is committed to objective and timely outcomes. Casting aspersions on that is unwarranted," the Indian foreign ministry said in a statement.

"In diplomacy, states are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. This responsibility is even more so in case of fellow democracies. It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents," it said.

India and the U.S. enjoy close ties and Washington has increasingly come to see New Delhi as an important partner in its effort to push back against China's growing power worldwide.

When asked about the summoning of the diplomat, a U.S. State Department spokesperson said he would not discuss private conversations but reiterated that Washington encouraged a "fair, transparent and timely" legal process for Kejriwal and for the Congress party.

The Congress party said last week its bank accounts had been frozen over an income tax case. It called the action politically motivated.

The federal government and Modi's party deny political interference.

Kejriwal's arrest after the announcement of elections has angered the opposition alliance challenging Modi and drawn international attention.

The U.S. comments on Kejriwal followed those by Germany, which said Berlin assumes and expects that the standards relating to independence of judiciary and basic democratic principles will also be applied in this case.

In response, New Delhi summoned a German envoy to protest against the remarks.

(Reporting by Sudipto Ganguly in Mumbai and Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by YP Rajesh and Costas Pitas)
A view of the Dali cargo vessel which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing it to collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., March 27, 2024. REUTERS/Mike Segar

By Sinead Cruise, Jonathan Saul and Carolyn Cohn

LONDON (Reuters) -Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse could cost insurers billions of dollars in claims, analysts say, with one putting it at as much as $4 billion, which would make the tragedy a record shipping insurance loss.

Six people are still missing after a collision with a Singapore-flagged container ship destroyed the landmark bridge on Tuesday, forcing the closure of one of the busiest U.S. ports.

With little clarity on when the Port of Baltimore would re-open, insurers and analysts are now assessing the likely losses borne by underwriters across several product lines including property, cargo, marine, liability, trade credit and contingent business interruption.

"Depending on the length of the blockage and the nature of the business interruption coverage for the Port of Baltimore, insured losses could total between $2 billion and $4 billion," said Marcos Alvarez, managing director for global insurance ratings at Morningstar DBRS. That would surpass the record insured losses of the Costa Concordia luxury cruise liner disaster in 2012, he said.

Mathilde Jakobsen, senior director, analytics at insurance ratings agency AM Best, also said the claims would likely run into "billions of dollars".

Ship liability insurance, which covers marine environmental damage and injury, is provided through protection and indemnity insurers known as P&I Clubs.

The International Group of P&I Clubs collectively insures approximately 90% of the world's ocean-going tonnage and member P&I clubs mutually reinsure each other by sharing claims above $10 million. The IG Group declined to comment.

According to AM Best, the group holds general excess of loss reinsurance cover up to the value of $3.1 billion.

SPREADING THE COST

Moody's Ratings analyst Brandan Holmes said approximately 80 different reinsurers provided that cover to the ship's insurers.

"While the total claim is expected to be high, it is unlikely to be significant for individual reinsurers since it will be spread across so many," he said.

Insurer Britannia P&I said in a statement that vessel, named the Dali, was entered with the club, adding that it was working closely with the ship manager and relevant authorities "to establish the facts and to help ensure that this situation is dealt with quickly and professionally".

Loretta Worters, spokesperson at the Insurance Information Institute, said AXA XL was the lead reinsurer on the first layer of cover for IG's reinsurance programme, with other global reinsurers also involved. AXA XL did not immediately respond to request for comment.

Alvarez said the disaster would likely put upward pressure on marine insurance rates globally.

Worters added she believed Aon was the insurance broker for the property policy for the bridge. Insurance Insider reported that Chubb was the lead underwriter for the policy. Aon and Chubb declined to comment.

Initial estimates of the cost of rebuilding the bridge, which is likely to be paid by the federal government, are at $600 million, economic software analysis company IMPLAN said.

The closure of the port for just one month could see a total loss of $28 million for the state of Maryland, according to IMPLAN analysis.

"The economic disruption and pain felt by businesses and individuals in Maryland and the Baltimore economic area will be widespread and likely take years to fully comprehend and compensate those affected," said Julien Horn, partner, Ports & Terminals and Logistics, at insurance broker McGill and Partners.

(Reporting By Sinead Cruise, Jonathan Saul, Carolyn Cohn and Noor Zainab Hussain; Editing by Andrea Ricci and Tomasz Janowski)
FILE PHOTO: Irish Tanaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Micheal Martin speaks to members of the media during the 78th United Nations General Assembly at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, U.S., September 19, 2023. REUTERS/Bing

DUBLIN (Reuters) -Ireland said on Wednesday it would intervene in South Africa's genocide case against Israel, in the strongest signal to date of Dublin's concern about Israeli operations in Gaza since Oct. 7.

Announcing the move, Foreign Minister Micheal Martin said that while it was for the World Court to decide whether genocide is being committed, he wanted to be clear that Hamas' Oct. 7 attack and what is happening in Gaza now "represents the blatant violation of international humanitarian law on a mass scale."

"The taking of hostages. The purposeful withholding of humanitarian assistance to civilians. The targeting of civilians and of civilian infrastructure. The indiscriminate use of explosive weapons in populated areas. The use of civilian objects for military purposes. The collective punishment of an entire population," Martin said in a statement.

"The list goes on. It has to stop. The view of the international community is clear. Enough is enough."

In January the International Court of Justice (ICJ), also known as the World Court, ordered Israel to refrain from any acts that could fall under the Genocide Convention and to ensure its troops commit no genocidal acts against Palestinians, after South Africa accused Israel of state-led genocide in Gaza.

Israel and its Western allies described the allegation as baseless. A final ruling in South Africa's ICJ case in The Hague could take years.

Martin did not say what form the intervention would take or outline any argument Ireland plans to advance, but added that the step was decided following legal and policy analysis and consultation with several partners including South Africa.

Martin's department said such third party interventions do not take a specific side in the dispute, but that the intervention would be an opportunity for Ireland to put forward its interpretation of one or more of the provisions of the Genocide Convention at issue in the case.

The Hamas-led attack killed 1,200 people and resulted in more than 250 being taken hostage, according to Israeli tallies. Since then, Israels assault on Gaza has killed more than 32,000 people, according to Hamas-run health authorities in Gaza.

Long a champion of Palestinian rights, Ireland last week joined Spain, Malta and Slovenia in taking the first steps toward recognising statehood declared by the Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and in the Gaza Strip.

Israel told the countries that their plan constituted a "prize for terrorism" that would reduce the chances of a negotiated resolution to the conflict between the neighbours.

(Reporting by Padraic Halpin, Editing by William Maclean)
BERLIN (Reuters) - Latvia is open to various funding options to boost the European Union's military capabilities in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Prime Minister Evika Silina said at a news conference in the German capital with Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

"Latvia will definitely will be open to many different opportunities how we can finance it. Either it will be European budget or it will be some bonds or some guarantees, but we really have to do it now," she said, adding that Europe had to do more to defend itself for peace.

(Reporting by Miranda Murray, Writing by Madeline Chambers)
Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Brazil's first lady Rosangela "Janja" and French President Emmanuel Macron pose for a picture as they attend the launching of the third Scorpene-class diesel-powered submarine built in Brazil with French techn

By Rodrigo Viga Gaier

ITAGUAI, Brazil (Reuters) -The presidents of France and Brazil on Wednesday launched a submarine built in the South American country with French technology in a program that aims to build Brazil's first nuclear-powered submarine by the end of the decade.

Presidents Emmanuel Macron and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva attended a ceremony in the Itaguai shipyard near Rio de Janeiro launching the third diesel-powered submarine built in a $10 billion partnership.

Brazil's first lady Janja da Silva smashed a champagne bottle on the bow of the submarine Tonelero and the two presidents activated a lever sending the Scorpene-class vessel into the sea.

The submarine program, begun in 2008 during Lula's previous presidential term, is a partnership with France's state-run Naval Group in which defense contractor Thales has a 35% stake.

The program, called ProSub, is Brazil's biggest international cooperation project in the defense sector, Lula said, and aims to protect its sovereignty over waters from where 85% of the country's oil and 75% of its gas comes.

The Brazilian government said its submarine fleet is needed to defend the country's nearly 7,500-kilometer (4,700-mile) coastline and the Atlantic waters where Brazil is developing vast offshore oil fields.

Macron is on a three-day visit to Brazil that aims to relaunch the bilateral relationship and strategic partnership that stalled during the previous government of Jair Bolsonaro, whom the French president criticized for failing to defend the Amazon rainforest.

Macron landed on Tuesday in the Amazon city of Belem, where Brazil will host the United Nations COP30 climate negotiations in 2025. Lula met him there and they pledged to work together to stop deforestation in the Amazon by 2030.

Macron will meet business executives in Sao Paulo later on Wednesday and make a state visit to Brasilia on Thursday.

(Reporting by Anthony Boadle; editing by Brad Haynes and Bill Berkrot and Mark Heinrich)
FILE PHOTO: People pose with syringe with needle in front of displayed Moderna logo in this illustration taken, December 11, 2021. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo

By Leroy Leo and Sneha S K

(Reuters) -Moderna on Wednesday said Blackstone's life sciences arm would offer $750 million to help fund development of its flu vaccines, bolstering the company's efforts to advance multiple vaccines in the face of a steep decline in sales of its COVID-19 shots.

Moderna is developing several new vaccines, including for cancer and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), resulting in high research and development spending.

The funding will reduce R&D expenses, although Moderna said it still plans to spend about $4.5 billion this year.

"We're excited about this because it checks all the boxes," Chief Financial Officer James Mock said during the company's 2024 vaccines day event. "It allows us to accelerate into new programs. It allows us to diversify our revenue stream and it reduces the risk, frankly, of the flu program as well."

Blackstone Life Sciences will get commercial milestone payments and low-single digit royalties on the influenza vaccine as part of the agreement, said Moderna, whose current lone marketed product is its COVID-19 shot.

Moderna will also pay Blackstone a proportional royalty on the combination vaccine against influenza and COVID, if it is approved, based on the fair value for the flu component, Mock said.

The company would consider this project financing model for other experimental vaccines, if there is a need, he added.

Moderna plans to move three vaccines to late-stage trials this year, including one against the varicella-zoster virus that can cause shingles and another against the pathogen that causes infectious mononucleosis, commonly known as mono.

Moderna shares were up about 2% in afternoon trading.

Sales of Moderna's COVID shot have fallen precipitously from its peak of more than $18 billion in 2022 as pandemic concerns fade, even as R&D expenses remain high. The company, which recorded a $4.7 billion net loss in 2023, forecast $4 billion for COVID shot sales in 2024.

Moderna expects to launch its RSV vaccine this year in the United States, and apply for approval of the flu shot, which it sees reaching the market in 2025.

The company estimated the overall market for flu vaccines at about $7 billion this year, with an opportunity to grow as new shots become available. It sees peak annual sales of the RSV shot market reaching $10 billion.

Moderna's flu shots have generated a stronger immune response against all four A and B strains of the influenza virus compared to traditional flu shots in a late-stage trial, according to data released in September.

(Reporting by Leroy Leo and Sneha S.K. in Bengaluru, and Patrick Wingrove in New York; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli and Bill Berkrot)
In the ongoing dispute between Corvallis leaders and Ward 5 Councilor Charlyn Ellis, the city is attempting to stop her lawsuit dead in its tracks while the legal fees rack up.

Ellis' lawsuit seeks to halt a process that would see her removed from office. A proposed resolution introduced in December accuses her of violating the city charter when she made a motion during a September meeting asking the city manager to fill an open position at City Hall.

In her lawsuit, Ellis argues the charter clause in question violates her free speech rights.

A Place to Sleep, episode 10: Wrapping up We check back with some of the people we've met along our travels and we catch up with politicos who are trying to come up with solutions.

The city, on the other hand, claims her motion was an attempt to interfere with the city manager's duties, an accusation that, should a majority of the City Council agree, would have her forfeit her seat. The city argues the charter rightfully concerns itself with Ellis' conduct, not her speech.

So far, the city has spent more than $100,000 in defending the suit, which has since been moved to federal court.

In a motion filed March 7, the city of Corvallis is asking a federal judge to grant it summary judgment in its favor, meaning a request to find that Ellis has no case.

In the court filing, the city argues that the charter section in question neither violates Oregon Constitution nor the First Amendment, and that Ellis "cannot meet her burden of demonstrating that she engaged in protected conduct sufficient to sustain a claim for First Amendment retaliation."

How we got here

The accusations began in November 2023 after Ellis said she was called into a meeting with council leadership and the former city attorney. She was informed she had violated charter Section 23(f) by directing the city manager twice once during a council meeting and previously at a meeting of the Climate Action Advisory Board, which she chairs  to fill a vacant staff position. The position aids in the work of the advisory board.

Ellis reportedly agreed to resign but reneged, the city asserts, and a resolution declaring her seat vacant was pulled from the Dec. 4 council meeting.

Instead, the city said it would allow her to defend herself at a due process hearing, which was scheduled, then rescheduled several times before a federal judge officially stopped the city from holding it pending her litigation.

Beyond the injunction, Ellis asks the court to void the Section 23(f) altogether because it represents an unconstitutional restraint on speech.

The city's motion

In the city's March 7 motion for summary judgment, the city argues that the part of Section 23(f) of the Corvallis charter that calls any "attempt to influence or coerce" the city manager a violation is constitutional on its face because the language does not focus on the content of speech.

"Here, the substance or subject of the communication is not an issue; rather, it is the effect of the speech  attempted influence or coercion  that is the issue," the motion reads.

The citys attorneys argue the "influencer or coercion clause" in the charter language is narrow enough to survive judicial scrutiny. To violate the clause, the argument says, "a councilor must specifically intend to influence or coerce the manager in specific terms," and this is not protected conduct.

The motion also argues that Ellis' speech was not protected as the speech was incompatible with her official function.

"Here, the impaired responsibility is of a city councilor not to violate the separation of power principles clearly laid out in the charter by usurping the managers authority over hiring decisions," the motion reads.

With regards to Ellis' claims of First Amendment retaliation, the motion argues similarly saying: "Because the 'influence or coercion clause' is neither unconstitutionally overbroad in every conceivable action nor prohibits such a broad range of conduct as to be unconstitutionally overbroad, it is not facially invalid."

The clause, the motion argues, leaves "ample avenues for communication for city councilors who wish to communicate with the manager regarding staff or hiring matters."

While councilors have First Amendment protections, the city's legal papers say, making motions, which is a mechanism of city government, is not expressive conduct and not entitled to those protections.

The motion asked the judge to grant the city relief and dismiss all of Ellis' claims with prejudice.

Legal costs so far

Since the case began in December, the city has incurred through the month of February $116,578.7 in legal fees.

In December, on advice of the former city attorneys, the council voted 7-2 to hire an outside firm to take up the charter violation case, allowing the City Attorney's Office to remain in an advisory role throughout the case for fairness.

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Both Ellis and Councilor Paul Shaffer voted "no" on the motion.

The city contracted Portland-based law firm Markowitz Herbold PC to handle the case. Kerry J. Shepherd, a shareholder of the firm, is the lead attorney on the case.

Here's a breakdown of the legal costs from December to February as contained in submitted invoices obtained through several public records request.

Dec. 19-27 Jan. 2-31 Feb. 1-29 Billable Hours 20 (lead case attorney; 10.3) = $11, 880 137.3 (lead case attorney; 50) = $67,713.3 71.4 (lead case attorney; 16.9) = $34,195.50 Westlaw Legal Research $33.60 $1,203.40 $1,552.90 Pacer Service Center Internal Costs Total $11,913.60 $68,916.70 $35,748.40

A response from Ellis' attorney was due March 28, but according to court documents, a death in the family is moving all remaining deadlines on the case back by 14 days, as agreed to by both parties. The response is now due April 11.

A subsequent reply and response from the city is due May 2, and Ellis' response will follow, due by May 16. Related stories:
FILE PHOTO: Republican National Committee (RNC) Chair Ronna McDaniel speaks to the audience at the third Republican candidates' U.S. presidential debate of the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign hosted by NBC News at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Perform

By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - NBC News on Tuesday reversed its decision to hire former Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel as a paid contributor, a senior official in the company told staff following high-profile dissent over her hiring by many at the network.

McDaniel's hiring was criticized by multiple news anchors and on-air personalities, including those at NBC's liberal-leaning affiliate MSNBC, who condemned the former RNC chair for her involvement in former President Donald Trump's attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

"After listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor," NBCUniversal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde said in an email to staff.

"I want to personally apologize to our team members who felt we let them down. While this was a collective recommendation by some members of our leadership team, I approved it and take full responsibility for it," Conde added.

Reuters was unable to obtain contact information for McDaniel to seek comment from her.

NBC News, part of the NBCUniversal division of Comcast, had announced McDaniel's hiring last Friday and said she had a contract to provide insight and analysis on U.S. politics and the 2024 election.

McDaniel, in an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press" that aired on Sunday, said Trump had wanted her out of the RNC and said she did not think that those who carried out violence in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riots should be freed.

"When you're the RNC chair you  you kind of take one for the whole team, right? Now I get to be a little bit more myself, right? This is what I believe," she said when asked about why she had not been critical of Trump earlier. Even so, McDaniel said she did not "hold (Trump) responsible" for the attack at the Capitol.

Trump has made repeated baseless claims that his defeat by Democrat Joe Biden in 2020 was the result of election fraud.

Among those who criticized McDaniel's hiring by NBC were the co-hosts of MSNBC's "Morning Joe" program Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, MSNBC's top anchor Rachel Maddow, and political analyst Chuck Todd.

McDaniel in late February stepped down from the RNC top job, after facing pressure following sluggish fundraising and a weaker-than-expected performance for Republicans in the 2022 congressional midterm elections.

McDaniel is hardly the first person to move from a political or government position to a high-profile media position. Jen Psaki, who was White House press secretary under President Joe Biden, joined MSNBC; Kayleigh McEnany, who was White House press secretary under Trump, joined Fox News.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Mary Milliken and Leslie Adler)
By Asif Shahzad

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Pakistan's prime minister called on Wednesday for a joint investigation by military and civilian officials into a suicide bombing that killed five engineers from China, while reviewing security arrangements for its projects, officials said.

Tuesday's incident was the third major attack in a week on China's interests in the South Asian nation, where Beijing has invested more than $65 billion in infrastructure projects, as part of its wider Belt and Road initiative.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for "a thorough joint investigation to be conducted, utilising all resources of the state," his office said in a statement.

Earlier, Sharif chaired a meeting of civilian and military officials that reviewed security arrangements for the protection of Chinese nationals and their interests, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said, but gave no details.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for Tuesday's attack, in which a suicide bomber rammed a vehicle into a convoy of Chinese engineers working on a hydropower project at Dasu in Pakistan's northwest, killing six people.

Two previous attacks targeted a naval air base in Pakistan and a strategic port used by China in the southwestern province of Balochistan, where Beijing has poured billions of dollars into infrastructure projects.

Dasu, the site of a major dam, has been attacked in the past, with a bus blast in 2021 killing 13 people, nine Chinese among them, although no group claimed responsibility.

Pakistan is home to twin insurgencies, one mounted by Islamists and the other by ethnic militants seeking secession as they are angered by what they call the government's inequitable division of natural resources.

Chinese interests are primarily targeted by the ethnic militants seeking to push Beijing out of mineral-rich Balochistan, but that area is far from the site of Tuesday's attack.

Pakistan has set up a dedicated force of police and military to ensure security for Chinese activities, officials say.

(Reporting by Asif Shahzad; Writing by Sakshi Dayal; Editing by YP Rajesh and Clarence Fernandez)
WARSAW/BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Ambassadors from European Union countries reached a revised deal on Wednesday to extend tariff-free food imports from Ukraine - with restrictions - after some states complained the original agreement risked destabilising the bloc's agricultural markets.

The agreement now goes to the European Parliament, where diplomats expect a push to add more restrictions, as the EU wrangles over how to continue with exemptions granted in 2022 to help Ukraine's economy following Russia's invasion.

Some EU farming groups and countries such as France and Poland had argued the measures needed to be tightened to avoid making EU agricultural products uncompetitive. Ukraine and others argue the imports have little effect on EU markets.

An EU diplomat said the new deal - which would run until June 2025 - was similar to a provisional agreement struck last week but changed the reference period used to determine when tariffs on some products would be applied.

The original deal stipulated that tariffs would kick in on poultry, eggs, sugar, oats, maize, groats and honey if imports exceeded the average levels of 2022 and 2023.

The compromise expands the reference period to include the second half of 2021, the diplomat said. That lowers the ceiling for the application of tariffs.

Belgium, which holds the EU's rotating presidency, said the agreement secured "a balanced approach between support for Ukraine and protection of EU agricultural markets".

It is estimated to cost Ukraine about 330 million euros ($357 million) in annual revenue - although the continued overall suspension of tariffs is worth much more to Kyiv.

NO PRODUCTS ADDED

No products were added to the list of those potentially subject to tariffs despite pressure from some countries, the diplomat said, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the confidential discussions.

Earlier this week, both France and Hungary said wheat should be subject to tariffs if imports rose above average levels.

The issue of food imports has sparked tensions between Ukraine and Poland, an otherwise staunch supporter of Kyiv.

Polish Agriculture Minister Czeslaw Siekierski was due to meet his Ukrainian counterpart, Mykola Solsky, on Wednesday afternoon, with the governments of the countries due to convene on Thursday.

Siekierski said that Ukraine wanted to maintain a liberal approach to trade while Poland thought that things like humanitarian and military aid should be treated separately from food exports to protect farmers' livelihoods in central and eastern Europe.

Polish farmers say that much of the Ukrainian grain that is supposed to transit through Poland to other countries ends up in the domestic market instead.

Ukraine says farmers' protests, which have included blockades of the border and the spilling of Ukrainian grain across rail tracks, are harming its war effort against Russia and its economy. It also says that only a small portion of the grain it exports transits through Poland.

($1 = 0.9243 euros)

(Reporting by Alan Charlish, Pawel Florkiewicz in Warsaw, Kate Abnett and Nette Noestlinger in Brussels, Luiza Ilie in Bucharest; editing by Sharon Singleton, Mark Heinrich and Nick Macfie, Kirsten Donovan)
WARSAW (Reuters) - Poland has dismissed a top general from his position as commander of a European military body, the defence ministry said on Wednesday, after the country's counterintelligence service launched an investigation into his security clearance.

Lieutenant General Jaroslaw Gromadzinski had been serving as commander of Eurocorps, a joint military group of some EU and NATO states, since June 2023, after a career that had seen him serve in Iraq and command Poland's 18th Mechanized Division.

"The Military Counterintelligence Service initiated inspection proceedings regarding the personal security clearance of Lieutenant General Jaroslaw Gromadzinski in connection with obtaining new information about the officer," Poland's defence ministry said in a statement.

"Therefore, a decision was made to dismiss Lt. Gen. Gromadzinski from his position as Eurocorps commander and his immediate return to the country."

It did not give details of the investigation. Reuters was not immediately able to reach a Eurocorps spokesperson for comment.

(Reporting by Alan Charlish; Editing by Nick Macfie)
KYIV (Reuters) - Ukraine's air force chief said on Wednesday that Russia launched 13 Shahed drones at Ukraine overnight, 10 of which were downed in Kharkiv, Sumy and Kyiv regions.

"Anti-aircraft missile units, mobile fire groups, electronic warfare equipment ... were involved in repelling the air attack," Mykola Oleshchuk said.

(Reporting by Max Hunder; Editing by Andrew Heavens)
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian company Automotive Technologies on Wednesday said it had started assembling Citroen C5 Aircross models in batches at a plant south of Moscow formerly owned by Stellantis, with the cars set to be sold in dealerships from May.

Reuters exclusively reported in February, citing customs data and two people familiar with the matter, that Automotive Technologies had imported at least 42 car kits from China for assembling Citroen models at the plant.

Manufactured in China, the kits were produced by China's Dongfeng Motor Group, the data showed.

Stellantis reiterated its response to Reuters in February, that it had concluded since Dec. 31, 2023, that it had "lost control of its entities in Russia."

"On March 27, batch assembly of Citroen C5 Aircross crossovers started at the factory in Kaluga," Automotive Technologies said in a statement. "The cars will arrive in the salons of official Citroen dealers in May 2024, but it's possible to book a car as soon as April."

The developments highlight the lack of control Western companies have over their brands after suspending Russian operations or leaving the country since Moscow's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and demonstrate Moscow's increasing dependence on Beijing, particularly in the car industry.

In February, Stellantis said it recognised a loss of 144 million euros ($155.75 million) from losing its Russian operations, including 87 million euros of cash and cash equivalents.

Chinese trade data for 2023 shows that exports of cars to Russia were almost seven times higher than in 2022, with the value of those exports jumping by almost $10 billion.

Dongfeng and Stellantis, the world's third-largest automaker by revenue, operate a commercial joint venture in China, through which Dongfeng can build and sell Stellantis cars in China.

($1 = 0.9246 euros)

(Reporting by Alexander Marrow and Gleb Stolyarov; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
By Lisa Richwine

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A lawyer for music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs said Tuesday the rapper was being targeted by a "witch hunt" after civil lawsuits accused him of sexual misconduct and federal authorities raided two of his properties.

On Monday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said it had opened an investigation into hip-hop star Combs and searched his homes in the Miami area and in Los Angeles.

Aaron Dyer, an attorney for Combs, called the raids "a gross overuse of military-level force."

Local television images on Monday showed an armored vehicle and officers carrying rifles outside Combs' Los Angeles home. Authorities detained some people at the property with their hands bound by zip ties.

Combs cooperated with authorities, Dyer said, and neither he nor any family members have been arrested or had their travel restricted.

"This unprecedented ambush - paired with an advanced, coordinated media presence - leads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr. Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits," Dyer added.

The Homeland Security department has not said what it is investigating with regard to Combs and did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Dyer's remarks.

The agency has broad jurisdiction to probe the illegal movement of people, goods, money, technology and contraband into, out of and throughout the United States, including sex trafficking.

In a civil lawsuit filed in Manhattan in mid-November, R&B vocalist Cassandra Ventura accused Combs of subjecting her to physical abuse, sexual slavery and rape during a 10-year professional and romantic relationship.

The lawsuit cited violations of sex trafficking and human trafficking statutes. Ventura and Combs, who has used such monikers as P. Diddy, Puff Daddy and Diddy, settled the case under confidential terms. Representatives for Combs said at the time the settlement was "in no way an admission of wrongdoing".

The lawsuit was one of at least four civil complaints in recent months leveling sexual assault allegations against Combs.

"There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations," Dyer said on Tuesday. "Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name."

Combs, founder of the landmark label Bad Boy Records, is one of the most influential producers and executives in hip-hop and a hugely successful performer, as well as the impresario of his own Sean John clothing line.

(Reporting by Lisa Richwine; Editing by Lincoln Feast.)
By Yantoultra Ngui

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Organised crime rings who fuelled an "explosion" of human trafficking and cyber scam centres during the pandemic have expanded from Southeast Asia into a global network making up to $3 trillion a year, the head of Interpol said on Wednesday.

"Driven by online anonymity, inspired by new business models and accelerated by COVID, these organised crime groups are now working at a scale that was unimaginable a decade ago," Interpol secretary-general Jurgen Stock told a briefing at the global police coordination body's Singapore office.

"What began as a regional crime threat in Southeast Asia has become a global human trafficking crisis, with millions of victims, both in the cyber scam centres and as targets."

The new cyber-scam centres, often staffed by unwilling staff trafficked with the promise of legitimate jobs, had helped organised crime groups diversify their revenue from drug trafficking, Stock said.

Drug trafficking businesses still contributed 40% to 70% of criminal groups' income, he said.

"But we see groups clearly diversifying their criminal businesses using drug trafficking routes also for trafficking of human beings, trafficking of arms, intellectual property, stolen products, car theft," Stock said.

About $2 trillion to $3 trillion in illicit proceeds are channeled through the global financial system annually, he said, adding that an organised crime group can make $50 billion a year.

The United Nations said last year that more than 100,000 people had been trafficked into online scam centres in Cambodia. In November, Myanmar handed over thousands of fugitive Chinese telecom fraud suspects to China.

A Reuters investigation last year detailed the emergence in Thailand of one branch of such alleged cyber-crime and its financing.

Stock praised Singapore for its success in uncovering a money laundering case last year involving seized assets amounting to over S$3 billion ($2.23 billion).

(Reporting by Yantoultra Ngui; Editing by Nick Macfie)
FILE PHOTO: An LGBT activist attends an International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia at Bangkok's Art Center, Thailand, May 17, 2019. REUTERS/Athit Perawongmetha/File Photo

By Panu Wongcha-um

BANGKOK (Reuters) -Thailand's parliament overwhelmingly approved a marriage equality bill on Wednesday, a landmark step that moves one of Asia's most liberal countries closer to becoming its third territory to legalise same-sex unions.

The bill had the support of all of Thailand's major parties and was more than a decade in the making. It still requires approval from the Senate and endorsement from the king before it becomes law and would take effect 120 days later.

The legislation was passed by 400 of the 415 lawmakers present, with only 10 voting against it and could see Thailand join Taiwan and Nepal in allowing same-sex unions.

"We did this for all Thai people to reduce disparity in society and start creating equality," Danuphorn Punnakanta, chairman of the parliamentary committee on the draft bill, told lawmakers ahead of the reading.

"I want to invite you all to make history."

The bill's passage marks a significant step towards cementing Thailand's position as one of Asia's most liberal countries on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, with openness and progressive attitudes coexisting in society alongside traditional, conservative Buddhist values.

Thailand has long been a draw for same-sex couples, with a vibrant and visible LGBT social scene for locals and expatriates, and targeted campaigns to attract LGBT travellers.

EQUAL RIGHTS GUARANTEED

But rights activists have long maintained its laws and institutions do not reflect changing social attitudes and still discriminate against LGBT people and same-sex couples.

The legislation passed on Wednesday is the consolidation of four different draft bills and recognises marriage between two people regardless of gender, rather than a husband and wife as previously defined.

It grants a couple full rights of a married couple under the country's civil and commercial code, including those concerning inheritance and adopting children.

The Constitutional Court had in 2021 ruled Thailand's current marriage law, which only recognises heterosexual couples, was constitutional, recommending legislation be expanded to ensure rights of other genders.

Nada Chaiyajit, an LGBT advocate and a law lecturer at Mae Fah Luang University, said the passing of the bill was a positive step but there were some unresolved issues.

LGBT advocates who were on the parliamentary committee had during Wednesday's debate pushed unsuccessfully for the terms "father" and "mother" to be changed to the gender-neutral "parent" in references to the family unit, to avoid complications in issues such as adoption.

"I'm happy indeed but this isn't a full marriage equality, it is only same-sex marriage," Nada said. "The right to marriage has been granted but not the full right to family establishment.

"It is a shame that we didn't go the full way."

(Reporting by Panu Wongcha-um; Editing by Martin Petty and Miral Fahmy)
Staff work as gimbal units for an Evolve Dynamics Sky Mantis surveillance drone are seen at their laboratories near Guildford, Britain, March 1, 2024. REUTERS/Toby Melville/File Photo

By Sarah Young

NEAR LONDON (Reuters) -In an anonymous warehouse in southern England, engineers at Evolve Dynamics are working on technology that could help keep Ukraine's reconnaissance drones in the sky even after Russia tries to jam them electronically.

It is a small but important part of an international effort by Ukraine's allies to support its drone programme, which Kyiv hopes will give it the edge over a much larger enemy with many more resources at its disposal.

Companies in dozens of countries have supplied drones and drone parts to Ukraine. Some, like Evolve Dynamics, are also focusing on technological advances designed to counter Russia's powerful electronic warfare (EW) capabilities.

By developing alternative radio link algorithms, it aims to make it harder for Russia to jam the signal from its surveillance drones, rendering them useless.

Both sides have bolstered deployment of EW systems, which can disrupt the frequencies that feed commands from the pilot to the drone, making them drop out of the sky or miss their target.

"It's a constant ping-pong game between adversaries," said Mike Dewhirst, chief executive of Evolve Dynamics, who estimates there have been 85 upgrades made to the company's Sky Mantis drones over the last two-and-a-half years.

Britain, a staunch ally of Kyiv since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, said it was the largest supplier of drones to Ukraine, and is working with Latvia to lead a European coalition to step up production.

Other allies, such as Sweden, the Netherlands and Norway, have also provided Ukraine with combat drones.

Ukraine has nurtured its own private military startups to innovate and build up their domestic industry as the war enters its third year.

In total, there are now about 200 dronemakers in Ukraine and the Strategic Industries Ministry has said the country could make as many as 2 million drones this year.

With Evolve Dynamics, whose reconnaissance drones in Ukraine spy on enemy movements, military units receive parts and software updates directly from the company, allowing them, where possible, to make the changes themselves.

"We're adding technology to existing drones, modifying them. It might be a software change, a hardware change," Dewhirst said.

RAPID CHANGES ON THE BATTLEFIELD

Some military experts said immediate communication between defence companies and soldiers may become a more common feature of warfare given the rapid technological innovation.

The trend could have implications for everything from procurement to training.

"The technology is moving very quickly. I would say maybe a six week learning cycle on the battlefield," said Nick Reynolds, Research Fellow in Land Warfare at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), a UK-based defence think-tank.

"Our procurement systems are not optimised for this."

Last month, a military unit in Ukraine asked Evolve Dynamics to make changes to its technology to make it safer for the pilot.

Working at the British site adorned with Ukrainian flags and messages of thanks from soldiers, staff worked out how to separate a drone's radio box from its control.

Having sent instructions, the military unit were able to adopt the change within 24 hours of the request.

Dewhirst, who travels to Ukraine each month, decided to fund the modification after hearing soldiers were going to pay for it themselves. Drone units in Ukraine often pay for their own equipment through private means or crowd-funding.

Dewhirst founded the company in 2014 when he was working with software engineers in Kyiv for a digital marketing start-up.

Evolve Dynamics now has about 100 Sky Mantis surveillance drones flying in Ukraine, making it one of between five and 10 British significant suppliers of drones to Ukraine, the company said.

Britain has pledged to spend 325 million pounds ($416 million) to send 10,000 drones to Ukraine this year, and Evolve Dynamics hopes to win more of that work.

The privately owned company has supplied Britain's Royal Navy and some police forces, along with global oil and gas and wind turbine companies.

($1 = 0.7813 pounds)

(Additional reporting by Max Hunder in Kyiv; Editing by Mike Collett-White and Timothy Heritage)
Important voter dates

Oregons statewide voter registration deadline is April 30, three weeks before Election Day. New voters and voters changing their party affiliation must postmark or file their registration cards online by 11:59 p.m. April 30.

Voters must postmark or return their ballots to a drop box by 8 p.m. on election day, May 21.

Inactive registered voters can update their registration by 8 p.m. May 21 to receive a ballot and vote. County election offices mark registration inactive when election mail like a ballot was not deliverable, because a voter moved, or a someone hasnt voted in 10 years.

April 30 is the last day for any voter to update their party registration.

Local ballots will be mailed out starting May 1. Voters may pick up replacement ballots in person at the county election office, starting May 17.
Demonstrators carry flags and banners during a protest outside an office of the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees after it put school teacher Fathi al-Sharif on administrative leave over possible violations of staff conduct regulations, in Be

BEIRUT (Reuters) - Dozens of people protested outside the Beirut office of the United Nations Palestinian Refugee Agency on Wednesday after it put a staff member on administrative leave over possible violations of staff conduct regulations.

School teacher Fathi al-Sharif was put on leave for three months without pay as the U.N. agency investigated alleged activities "that are in violation of the Agency's regulatory framework governing staff conduct," the agency told Reuters in a statement.

UNRWA said it could not discuss further details. It did not say whether he was accused of membership of an armed group.

Sharif spoke at the protest on Wednesday, where a crowd had gathered to support him. Several people told Reuters that he had been accused of links to Palestinian faction Hamas, which carried out a deadly attack in Israel in October.

"The job can go, and we will stay!" he told those gathered.

UNRWA, which provides essential services including education and health to Palestinian refugees across the region, has been in crisis.

Israel informed the U.N. that it will no longer approve UNRWA food convoys to the north of Gaza, where famine is possible by May, according to a U.N.-backed report published last week. An Israeli government spokesman said on Monday Israel would stop working with UNRWA altogether in Gaza.

Earlier this year, Israel accused 12 UNRWA employees in the Gaza Strip of taking part in the Hamas-led attack on Israeli soil on Oct. 7 that left 1,200 people dead, with more than 130 still held hostage by the group.

Israel launched a land, sea and air offensive in response that the Hamas-run health authorities in Gaza say has left more than 32,000 Palestinians dead.

Israel's allegations prompted a suspension of funding by more than a dozen donors, many of whom have resumed funding.

They also sparked an investigation by a U.N. oversight body and a separate review process by UNRWA, which its Lebanon representative Dorothee Klaus told Reuters would examine safeguards protecting its neutrality and independence.

She said she expected her branch of the agency would be consulted in a possible review of whether staff in Lebanon were affiliated to armed groups.

(Reporting by Mohamad Azakir and Maya Gebeily; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
FILE PHOTO: U.S. artist Richard Serra poses for photographers during a meeting, under the title of "The skin of spaces" in the Art Centre of Gijon October 21, 2010. REUTERS/Eloy Alonso/File Photo

By Daniel Trotta

(Reuters) - American artist Richard Serra, whose enormous steel sculptures coated with a fine patina of rust decorated landscapes and dominated oversized galleries in the world's finest museums, died on Tuesday, the New York Times reported. He was 85.

The artist died at his home on New York's Long Island of pneumonia, the Times reported, citing his lawyer, John Silberman.

Born in San Francisco in 1938 to a Spanish father and Russian mother, Serra grew up visiting marine shipyards where his father worked and also labored in steel mills to support himself in his youth, according to his San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and Guggenheim Museum biographies.

Despite the large scale of his works, artistically he was considered a minimalist, letting the dimensions of his art relative to the viewer, rather than elaborate imagery, make its point.

After studying at the University of California, Berkeley, and Yale University, he moved to New York in 1966 where he began making art from industrial materials such as metal, fiberglass and rubber.

Though he would later become quite popular, one of his 1981 works was so poorly received that it was removed from public view in Lower Manhattan, ARTnews said.

"Tilted Arc," a 120-foot (36-meter) bar of steel, is today "remembered as one of the most reviled works of public art in the city's history. It was ultimately taken away because people hated it so much," ARTnews said.

He made a breakthrough in 1969 when he was included in "Nine Young Artists: Theodoron Awards" at New York's Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum.

After traveling to Spain to study Mozarabic architecture in the early 1980s, his work gained renown in Europe and with solo exhibitions at major museums in Germany and France.

Serra's work was especially appreciated in his father's native Spain, where the Reina Sofia museum offered a 1992 retrospective of his work and he had an exhibit dedicated exclusively to his work at the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim museum in Bilbao.

A 2002 New Yorker magazine profile entitled "Man of Steel" described him as a "stocky, powerful-looking man with a large head, a fringe of close-cropped gray hair, and black eyes whose intense stare reminds you of Picasso's."

That same piece told of Serra's self-realization that he was not a painter, after seeing Diego Velazquez's 1656 work "Las Meninas" in the Prado museum in Madrid.

"It pretty much stopped me," Serra said. "Cezanne hadn't stopped me, de Kooning and Pollack hadn't stopped me, but Velazquez seemed like a bigger thing to deal with. That sort of nailed the coffin on painting for me."

(Reporting by Daniel Trotta; Editing by Mary Milliken and Lincoln Feast.)
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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 OR 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): March 27, 2024 ( )

ALLIED CORP. (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

Nevada 0-27675 33-1227173 (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation) (Commission File Number) (IRS Employer Identification No.)

Suite 200-460 Doyle Ave , Kelowna , BC Canada V1Y OC2 (Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)

Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code: ( 877 ) 255-4337

1405 St. Paul St., Suite 201, Kelowna, BC Canada V1Y 9N2

(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))

Item 5.02 Departure of Directors or Principal Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Principal Officers.

Departure of Director

Effective March 20, 2024 Santiago Ribero resigned as a Director of Allied Corp. Mr. Ribero has moved to the United States and has taken a position in the banking industry, but will continue to have an active role with the Company.

Item 8.01 Other Events.

Effective March 24, 2024, the Company moved its headquarters to Suite 200 - 460 Doyle ave Kelowna BC Canada V1Y OC2. The Companys telephone number remains the same, phone: 877-255-4337.

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SIGNATURES

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.

Allied Corp. (Registrant) Dated: March 27, 2024 By: /s/ Calum Hughes Chief Executive Officer

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West Point Cadet Havin Morris (U.S. Military Academy)

A cadet at the U.S. Military Academy apparently drowned accidentally while on spring break over the weekend in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., according to police.

A police dive team on Monday night recovered the body of Cadet Havin Morris, 21, of Pleasanton, Calif., from the New River, a tidal estuary fronting the coastal city, according to an email from Fort Lauderdale Police spokeswoman Casey Liening on Wednesday.

At this time, his death appears to be an accidental drowning and no foul play is suspected, Liening said.

Morris was reported missing Saturday and was last seen in downtown Fort Lauderdale, according to police. He was in Fort Lauderdale with three friends, according to a report Tuesday in the South Florida Sun Sentinel.

Cadet Morris was a valued member of the Corps of Cadets, committed to serving his country as an Army Officer. The entire West Point Community offers our heartfelt condolences to the Morris family, West Point Superintendent Lt. Gen. Steve Gilland said in a statement posted on the academy website Tuesday.

Morris tactical officer Maj. Rebecca Gogue Morrison described the cadet as a bright, resilient young man with a determination to succeed in all he did, according to the West Point statement.

The Army Criminal Investigations Command is cooperating with police on the investigation, Gilland said in the release.

In March 2022, six male West Point cadets overdosed on fentanyl while in Fort Lauderdale for spring break. First responders used Narcan to counteract the powerful synthetic opioid and revive some of the cadets, according to media reports. Two went into cardiac arrest and were placed on ventilators, according to the Sun Sentinel.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chief of Engineers Lt. Gen. Scott Spellmon views damage of the fallen Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed in Baltimore, Tuesday, March 26, 2024. USACE will lead the effort to clear the channel as part of the larger interagency recovery effort to restore operations at the Port of Baltimore. (David Adams/U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)

More than 1,100 members of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will assist in clearing the Fort McHenry Channel in Marylands Patapsco River following the collapse Tuesday of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

The corps Baltimore District activated its Emergency Operations Center to provide support to local, state and federal agencies following the bridges collapse when the container ship Dali slammed into a pillar at around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday. The corps will lead the effort to clear the federal channel, a Corps of Engineers news release said.

The corps is providing:

Certified underwater assessment capabilities by structural professional engineers, remotely operated vehicle and sonar.

Structural engineering support, including certified bridge safety inspectors and urban search and rescue structural technical specialists.

Waterway debris management, led by USACE debris removal vessel Reynolds, which patrols the waters of the Baltimore Harbor and Patapsco River for drift and debris that could be hazardous to navigation.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff onboard Hydrographic Survey Vessel Catlett observe the damage resulting from the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Tuesday, March 26, 2024. (David Adams/U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)

USACE also is poised to provide hydrographic and topographic surveying via the Catlett, a 61-foot survey vessel that actively supports the Baltimore Districts Navigation Branch. Additional vessels are prepared to join efforts as needed for waterway debris management.

Our thoughts are with those impacted by the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Baltimore District Commander Col. Estee Pinchasin said in the release. Our Emergency Managers are closely monitoring the incident and coordinating with partner agencies for any potential support requests.

At least eight people went into the water when the bridge collapsed Tuesday. Two were rescued, but six others  part of a construction crew that had been filling potholes on the bridge  were missing and presumed dead. A search for their bodies was underway Wednesday morning, according to Maryland State Police spokesperson Elena Russo, the Associated Press reported.

The U.S. Coast Guard on Tuesday assisted local, state and federal agencies in the rescue mission, with response boat crews from Coast Guard Stations Curtis Bay and Annapolis deployed, a news release from the service said.

Federal and state officials said the crash appeared to be an accident. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, and ship traffic entering and leaving the Port of Baltimore was suspended indefinitely, AP reported.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers navigation staff observe the damage resulting from the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Tuesday, March 26, 2024. (David Adams/U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Navigation staff observe the damage resulting from the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Tuesday, March 26, 2024. (David Adams/U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)
Army Rangers from the 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment take cover while controlling a drone swarm during a demonstration March 5, 2024, during Project Convergence at Camp Pendleton, Calif. The Army-led Project Convergence is an experiment to bring all the military services together to link their intelligence-gathering sensors to all their offensive and defensive fires capabilities and test new age technology that the Defense Department hopes to field to the force. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes)

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif.  Army Rangers send a swarm of small drones out over the Marine Corps base in Southern California in search of potential targets. Off the coast, Navy destroyers stand by ready to fire, if called upon.

Meanwhile, Marine logisticians just off the shore move supplies onto land using autonomous boats to transport gear close to the coastal base and unmanned drones to deliver the equipment to troops on land.

Farther away, Air Force fighter jets patrol desert training ranges near Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas in search of enemy aircraft. And at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., Army special operators conduct secretive reconnaissance missions, quietly closing in on potential adversaries to gather intelligence.

These training operations across the western United States in recent weeks were linked together by top Army leaders working from a command center at Camp Pendleton, connecting those troops, their intelligence-gather sensors and their weapons to form a so-called kill web, as part of broad experiment to share targeting information and other data at breakneck speeds among all U.S. military services.

The experiment, known as Project Convergence, was the largest effort yet to pull the services together under a single command and control apparatus to choose the best weapon in the Pentagons arsenal to destroy a target quickly. Dubbed the Combined Joint All Domain Command and Control, or CJADC2, Pentagon leaders, including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, have called it the Defense Departments top technology priority, and plan to spend some $1.4 billion on the program next year, according to its fiscal 2025 budget proposal.

Military leaders believe connecting all the military services sensors  from satellites in outer space to aircraft in the skies and from ships at sea to infantrymen on the front lines  in a communications network is the best way to fight, should U.S. troops find themselves in a conflict with near-peer rivals such as China or Russia, which have spent heavily in recent years on new military technology.

In one instance during the experiment this month, a Marine F-35 stealth fighter discovered an enemy target, relayed the information to an Air Force battle management node and an Army artillery battery blasted the target with a missile  all in seconds. That kind of success  rare in a military where the branches speak with jargon unique to their own troops and use weapons systems developed specifically for their branch  proves CJADC2 can work in future conflict, said Lt. Gen. Ross Coffman, the deputy commander for Army Futures Command, who helped lead the experiment.

Theres no Army fight. Theres no Marine Corps fight, Coffman said March 5 at Camp Pendleton as Project Convergence prepared to move its 2024 capstone experiment from a maritime fight at the Marine base to a desert operation at the Armys National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif., some 150 miles northeast. Theres a joint fight.  Each of our services are extremely capable. I would say the best in the world. When those five services come together in exercises like this, we form a fist, and that fist delivers an incredible punch.

An Army Ranger from the 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment controls a drone swarm during a demonstration March 5, 2024, during Project Convergence at Camp Pendleton, Calif. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes)

The experiment at Camp Pendleton and Fort Irwin from Feb. 23 through March 20, included two distinct focus areas, both aimed at transforming how the military fights.

The initial phase at Camp Pendleton focused on the ability to move massive amounts of data  the intelligence collected by military sensors  between the U.S. services and several allies, including the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand, and linking together offensive and defensive firing capabilities.

The second phase at NTC focused on human-machine integration in combat formations  adding small airborne drones and ground robots into the Armys front-line fighting units to expand firepower and reduce risk of harm to the troops closest to the enemy.

The Army launched Project Convergence in 2020 as a small experiment aimed at drastically reducing the time it takes to attack a target after identifying it on the battlefield. Futures Command worked to link various Army sensors across the battlefield  such as drones, radar systems and technology in soldiers hands  to command-and-control nodes outfitted with artificial intelligence designed to rapidly determine what the target was and what weapon would best eliminate it. Coffman, who also led the 2020 version of Project Convergence, touted at the time his teams ability to cut targeting processes from tens of minutes to tens of seconds, in some cases.

In three subsequent iterations of Project Convergence, the Army has continued to shave time off its targeting processes, Coffman and other officials said. This year, processing times to find a target, verify it and strike it improved since the initial experiment in 2020 was held at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona, said Alex Miller, who serves as the top technology adviser to Gen. Randy George, the Armys chief of staff. Miller and Coffman declined to provide specifics about targeting timing in the experiment, citing concerns about revealing too much to adversaries.

We did see things that took minutes of very human-central processing go down to seconds because the workflows were entirely automated, Miller said. So, what we did see is from a sensor to someone who could affect a target  two orders of magnitude reduction at times. And it was pretty awesome.

The Army gradually expanded Project Convergence in recent years, adding other services to its second major experiment and several allied militaries later. This year, Project Convergence has grown to encompass a variety of experiments built into training exercises in the Indo-Pacific Command area of operations and the European theater, Coffman said. It will continue later this year with another exercise in INDOPACOM.

Coffman described the program going forward as a continuous campaign of learning. The experiments this month served as the capstones for Project Convergence in 2024, which the Army had planned to pour some $90 million into this year, according to service budget documents.

We started very small, proving tech [in the initial Project Convergence] and now today were talking across services, were passing data across services, and proving that we can work together to protect through defensive fires and affect through offensive fires, Coffman said.

The project used a Joint Track Management Capability data bridge built by the Missile Defense Agency to link all the services components together on a single network, he said. The bridge allowed the services and allies to pass data back and forth at rates the Pentagon had never attempted previously.

This bridge absolutely allowed us to pass information from multiple sensors to multiple shooters, so that an Army sensor passed data to a shooter in every service, and the other services sensors passed data to all the other services, Coffman said. It worked magnificent. It was able to pass the amount of data that we have not seen before  ncreasing it tenfold, and it absolutely was able to pass that data and get it to the right shooter.

Army Maj. John Donaho, a capability integrator team leader for Joint Modernization Command, top left, explains the scenarios and battlespace involved in the Armys 2024 Project Convergence capstone event on March 5, 2024, at Camp Pendleton, Calif. ( Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes)

Fighting at machine speed

Inside a military tent, Army Maj. John Donaho stands before a large projection of the expansive battlespace and military assets involved in the first phase of Project Convergence. The battlespace spreads out from Camp Pendleton, the experiments nerve center, as far east as Joint Base McGuireDixLakehurst, N.J., and as far west as Australia, said Donaho, who leads a Joint Modernization Command capabilities integrations team for Army Futures Command.

The massive battlespace was meant to represent the challenges presented by fighting a conflict in the Indo-Pacific Command area of operations, which spans nearly half the globes land area and the Pacific Ocean. The region is the Pentagons top security priority, highlighted by China, which is considered the top U.S. challenge as it expands its military and conducts increasingly destabilizing operations in the region, according to Adm. John Aquilino, the commander of INDOPACOM.

At Project Convergence, military leaders worked to ensure that a commander at Camp Pendleton had nearly real-time control of his forces across that huge swath of the globe  from artillery batteries in northern Australia and at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., to Navy destroyers and littoral combat ships operating in waters between Hawaii and California, and aircraft flying throughout the region, Donaho said. The key is the automation brought by artificial intelligence and machine learning that allow any of those troops across the globe to relay information quickly to the commander who can then make a decision with that data, the major said.

There are multiple reasons why the Pentagon wants to hasten its targeting practices to allow commanders to make those decisions at machine speed, Donaho said. In some cases, targets might only present themselves for a small window of time.

So, if somethings only there for 10 or 20 minutes, we dont have time for 15 telephone operators along the way to pass that message up, get a decision, and then pass it all the way back down to the person who is then tasked to hit that red button to make the rocket go boom, Donaho said March 5 at Camp Pendleton.

But Pentagon leaders also believe by speeding up the ability to share targeting information and other data between all services operating in a battlespace, it will also save them precious resources, including expensive missiles, which defense leaders fear would be at a premium in the early days of a conflict with a power competitor such as China.

Without a common operating picture among the services through a program such as CJADC2, the separate branches might end up double targeting or triple targeting an enemy asset that reveals itself, said Vice Adm. Michael Boyle, the commander of the San Diego-based 3rd Fleet. Boyle led the Navys contributions to Project Convergence.

If we cant connect ourselves together, were going to all build individual stovepipe plans, Boyle told reporters March 5. But if we can connect together, then we can draw from a single magazine across the joint force. We dont have unlimited magazines  so this enables us to pick whatever magazine we need to pick from.

The technology on display at Project Convergence was not limited to the efforts to connect sensors and shooters and share data across all the military services. Coffman said the Army has also used the platform to test the latest technology it hopes to bring to its formations in the coming years, including self-driving tactical vehicles, small drones and robots capable of firing machine guns or other weapons.

Self-driving tactical vehicles move themselves during a demonstration of emerging technologies on March 5, 2024, during Project Convergence at Camp Pendleton, Calif. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes)

Machines before humans

A four-legged robot resembling a dog marches through the streets of a small village built on NTCs vast desert training grounds. The semi-autonomous ground drone, which weighs about 110 pounds, is built to provide a soldier with a new means of reconnaissance  acting as their eyes and ears on the ground, according to Army officials.

The robotic dog can run about three hours and span distances beyond 6 miles, according to its manufacturer Ghost Robotics. The robot can move through water, climb stairs and send live 360-degree imagery back to its operators. For troops serving on the frontlines, it offers them the ability to stay hidden as it searches potentially dangerous areas, officials said.

The Army has been experimenting with robotic dogs and other ground robots at Fort Moore, Ga., in recent months. But at Project Convergence, it used the new technology for the first time in a major combat training operation. During the experiment, soldiers from several units, including the 82nd Airborne Division, the 3rd Armored Corps and the 316th Cavalry Brigade, tested dozens of robotic and autonomous machines as they fought their way into NTCs training grounds.

While soldiers have been using small aerial drones at NTC and in other training and combat environments for years, ground robotics have lagged behind their airborne counterparts, said Miller, the tech adviser to the Army chief of staff.

Weve learned that ground robotics is a super hard problem, he said, comparing it to Tesla and other car manufacturers long-running quest to develop safe self-driving cars.

But Army officials believe ground robots, like small unmanned aerial systems, are critical to building a force that can survive in large scale combat operations against an enemy with similar firepower to U.S. forces.

In such an environment, Coffman said, it will be important that American troops make initial contact against enemy forces with the machines before humans.

That is ground and air robots that can move forward to identify where the enemy is, and if something goes  terribly wrong and the enemy identifies [the robot], then they have shot, and now we know where they are and how we can [attack] them, the general said. Everyone on the battlefield can then move to a position of relative advantage, rather than anyone being shot in that initial firefight.

The Army chose to move the training midway from Camp Pendleton to Fort Irwin to test its robots in its most demanding environment, where the desert routinely wreaks havoc on the soldiers who train there each month and their equipment.

If the robots and human soldiers can work together on NTCs austere grounds, they can likely operate in most any environment to which they are sent, Coffman said.

George, the Army chief of Staff, said Project Convergence might help the Army hasten its pace at integrating some robots into its traditional combat units.

This is a fast-moving train, George told reporters. It needs to be. We have a real sense of urgency to get after this.

The Army will continue experimenting with robots as it moves forward into the next phase of Project Convergence, officials said. The service plans to conduct experiments under the Project Convergence umbrella in the summer during the Valiant Shield 2024 wargames in the INDOPACOM region. And the service requested some $73 million to continue Project Convergence in fiscal 2025.

The lessons were learning are going to be applied in the next Pacific exercise, then in Europe. Were stringing these lessons learned together with real exercises  so we can continually improve, Coffman said. Its worth it. Its worth every penny. The readiness of the joint force and the partnership with our allies is invaluable. When called upon, the women and men of this nation, women, men of other nations will fight side-by-side, preserve liberty, and the cost of this  experiment is worth every penny to ensure that can happen.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutters Sea Dog (front) and Sea Dragon of Maritime Force Protection Unit Kings Bay support exercise Resolute Guardian, Sept. 25, 2012, near Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga. (James Kimber/U.S. Navy)

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sea Dog was damaged Monday while returning from sea to the St. Marys River on the border between Florida and Georgia, the service announced in a statement.

The Sea Dog was able to safely moor at Fernandina Beach, Fla., with assistance from other Coast Guard vessels and a commercial towing vessel.

The Coast Guard reported no injuries to personnel, no damage to other vessels in the area, no impediments to the navigable waterway and no reported environmental impacts as a result of the incident. The incident is under investigation, the statement said.

The Sea Dog is an 87-foot marine protector-class cutter assigned to Coast Guard Maritime Force Protection Unit Kings Bay in the Coast Guards District 7. The district is responsible for a 1.7 million mile area including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Puerto Rico and 34 foreign nations and territories, according to the Coast Guard.
In this photo released by the Taiwan Presidential Office, Taiwans President Tsai Ing-wen inspects the commissioning of two new navy ships in the northern Taiwan port of Suao on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Taiwan has commissioned two new navy ships as a safeguard against the rising threat from China, which has been ratcheting up its naval and air force missions around the island that it claims as its own territory to be annexed by force if necessary. The pair of Tuo Chiang class corvettes completes the first order of six of the domestically produced catamarans with stealth capabilities. (Taiwan Presidential Office via AP)

TAIPEI, Taiwan  Taiwan has commissioned two new navy ships as a safeguard against the rising threat from China, which has been ratcheting up its naval and air force missions around the island that it claims as its own territory to be annexed by force if necessary.

The pair of Tuo Chiang class corvettes completes the first order of six of the domestically produced catamarans with stealth capabilities. The ships are relatively small, capable of carrying just 41 sailors and officers, but are fast and highly maneuverable and carry a range of missiles and deck guns aimed at countering larger Chinese vessels and rocketry.

Outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen oversaw the commissioning on Tuesday at the northern port of Suao, emphasizing her push to revitalize Taiwans defense industries, alongside extensive arms purchases and support from key ally the United States.

Tsai has also fast-tracked the production of trainer jets and the islands first homebuilt submarines, sometimes pushing budgets for such purchases through the legislature against resistance from representatives of the opposition Nationalist Party, which favors eventual unification with China.

Ma Ying-jeou, the last president from the Nationalists, also known as the KMT, is reportedly planning a visit to China next month that could include a meeting with Communist Party leader Xi Jinping.

Taiwan was colonized by China in the 1600s but later taken over by Japan, before reverting to the Republic of China at the end of World War II. The sides then split again amid the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Xi has been building his military with an eye to consolidating Chinas territorial claims throughout the Pacific, the South China Sea and along the contested high-mountain border with India.

China boasts the worlds largest standing military and biggest navy  with three aircraft carriers  but has not fought in a major conflict since its brief 1979 invasion of Vietnam. Since then, its military budget has ballooned to the worlds second largest behind the U.S., alongside a huge expansion of its economy, which is now showing signs of losing steam.

Most recently, frictions between patrol vessels from the sides near Taiwan-controlled islands just off the Chinese coast have renewed concerns about a conflict that could draw in the U.S., which is legally bound to ensure Taiwan can defend itself and considers all threats to the island as matters of grave concern.

While vastly outgunned, Taiwans military has been bolstered by new weaponry and an extension of the universal period of national service for men from four months to one year. Its air force, navy and missile corps also respond to near-daily incursions by Chinese ships and planes.

Taiwans Defense Ministry says it is on alert for a Chinese sneak attack, possibly targeting Tsai or Vice President William Lai, who will take over the top office in May. Both are despised as separatists by Beijing. Recent Taiwanese media reports have shown satellite photos of Chinese Peoples Liberation Army training grounds including mock-ups of the neighborhood surrounding Taipeis Presidential Office Building.

Taiwans Defense Ministry said it detected nine Chinese planes and six ships operating around the island between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning.

In Beijing on Wednesday, a spokesperson for the Cabinets Taiwan Affairs Office criticized live-firing exercises by the Taiwanese military planned for next month near the Taiwan-held island group of Kinmen just off the Chinese coast.

Any provocative move Taiwans military takes is doomed to fail, Chen Binhua said at a biweekly news conference.
Army Cpl. Julius G. Wolfe, killed on D-Day off the coast of France, will be laid to rest April 5, 2024, in his hometown of Liberal, Mo. (POW/MIA Accounting Agency)

Army Cpl. Julius G. Wolfe, killed on D-Day off the coast of France, will be laid to rest April 5 in his hometown of Liberal, Mo.

Wolfe was assigned to Company B, 149th Engineer Combat Battalion. On June 6, 1944, the Landing Craft Infantry (Large) 92 struck an underwater mine and burst into flames as it was steered toward Omaha Beach, France, according to a news release from the POW/MIA Accounting Agency. Wolfe was 20 years old.

He will receive a burial with full military honors. Greenlawn Funeral Home North, Springfield, Mo., will perform graveside services preceding the interment.

Wolfe was accounted for by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency Aug. 21, 2023, after his remains were exhumed for laboratory analysis from Normandy American Cemetery, Normandy, France, in 2021.

As of May 2023, more than 81,000 Americans remain missing from WWII, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War and the Gulf Wars/other conflicts. Out of the total, approximately 75% of the losses are located in the Indo-Pacific region, and over 41,000 of the missing are presumed lost at sea (such as ship losses and known aircraft water losses).
The remains of U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Leroy C. Cloud, who was killed during World War II, will be interred April 6, 2024, at Taylor City Cemetery in Taylor, Texas. (POW/MIA Accounting Agency)

The remains of U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Leroy C. Cloud, who was killed during World War II, will be interred April 6 at Taylor City Cemetery in Taylor, Texas.

Cloud, who was assigned to Company A, 744th Tank Battalion, was 24 when he went missing in action on July 26, 1944. His M5A1 Stuart light tank was struck by a shoulder-fired rocket while fighting German forces at Saint-Germain-dElle, France, according to a news release from the POW/MIA Accounting Agency.

He will receive a burial with full military honors.

Cloud was identified by the DPAA on Aug. 29, 2023, after his remains were exhumed for laboratory analysis from Normandy American Cemetery in France in April 2018.

As of May 2023, more than 81,000 Americans remain missing from WWII, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War and the Gulf Wars/other conflicts. Out of the total, approximately 75% of the losses are located in the Indo-Pacific region, and over 41,000 of the missing are presumed lost at sea (such as ship losses and known aircraft water losses).
The Biden administration sent shockwaves around the world when it announced a moratorium on all future liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects for the indefinite future. (Department of Energy)

The Biden administration sent shockwaves around the world when it announced a moratorium on all future liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects for the indefinite future. Our allies have long depended on the U.S. for clean energy supplies, but this became especially pertinent following Russias invasion of Ukraine. Last year, the U.S. became the worlds leading exporter of LNG, so it makes little sense to withhold such a valuable and needed resource from our allies. Ultimately, the moratorium is bad policy and is out of step with our interests and those of our friends abroad. President Joe Biden would do well to reexamine this decision.

While the moratorium announcement didnt immediately raise eyebrows across Washington, lawmakers are now beginning to realize what the administrations decision may mean for our global status. In fact, in recent weeks the House Committee on Energy and Commerce held a hearing on Politics Over People: How Bidens LNG Export Ban Threatens Americas Energy and Economic Security. The hearing covered the political backing of the latest attack on energy production and offered an opportunity to explore the many benefits of American LNG at home and abroad. As this issue continues to unfold, lawmakers are eager to understand the facts and consequences of hitting the brakes on American LNG exports.

One clear consequence is the abandonment of our allies abroad who have depended on American LNG to break Russias grip on energy production. Europe was the primary destination for U.S. LNG in 2022, accounting for nearly two-thirds of LNG exports. Without it, our European allies will once again depend on Russian President Vladimir Putins energy supplies, a serious and consequential step back. In fact, several Russian media outlets have gloated that Bidens moratorium will force Germany and others back to Russia for natural gas.

The most concerning effect is the impact on our national security. With a new major Russian LNG export facility scheduled to come online this year and Iran, the worlds third largest natural-gas producer, reviving construction on its own LNG export facility, the moratorium cannot be viewed in a vacuum. Europe and Asia will have to import gas from foreign adversaries to meet their growing demand, likely looking to Russia and China. Theyll also look to Qatar, which likely will assume the mantle of top LNG exporter, especially as new projects are completed.

Bidens LNG moratorium is as inconsistent as it is dangerous. In March 2022, the administration was set on providing energy relief to Europe. As of February 2023, it continued to advocate for LNGs benefits, with Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm stating that our liquefied natural gas exports have been a significant help to our allies. Less than a year later, the administration has completely flipped its position, putting international security on the line.

Fortunately, the LNG moratorium is drawing serious fire from the Hill. A chorus of congressional Democrats have joined Republicans and the energy industry in sounding the alarm on Bidens decision. They stated that it actually undermines his climate agenda, jeopardizes national security, empowers Russia and Iran, and creates a schism with allies who depend on this clean energy from the U.S. to fuel their countries.

Placing a moratorium on American LNG exports is no small matter. It will have long-lasting consequences for our geopolitical standing and endanger climate change goals here and abroad. The move will also upset a global energy market that is just now settling, threatening to raise prices here at home and send our allies scrambling to Russia (and others) to satisfy their energy needs. An LNG moratorium is a losing move for the U.S., and Biden, with Congress support, must quickly reverse course.

Tom Magness, a retired U.S. Army colonel, served as a commander in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He is the founder of the Eagle Leadership Group.
U.S. Steel, the Pittsburgh steel producer that played a key role in the nations industrialization, is being acquired by Nippon Steel in an all-cash deal valued at approximately $14.1 billion. (Fort Frick Photography/United States Steel Corporation/Facebook)

The majority of U.S. presidential elections this century have been won by slim margins in a handful of states where there remains enough parity between Democrats and Republicans to potentially make things competitive.

This election year is no different.

Just as in 2016 and 2020, the so-called Rust Belt  a collection of midwestern and northeastern states that tip into the American south  are expected to make the difference. The region was once the nations industrial engine serving as a bastion for manufacturing, steelmaking and coal production.

With 36 delegates to the Electoral College, Pennsylvania (19) and Ohio (17) are crucial to any candidates path to the 270 needed to win. It should therefore be no surprise that the presumptive nominees of both parties, as well as a notable third-party challenger, are doing everything possible to earn voters trust in those states.

Regrettably for the country, however, a sensitive local issue involving the purchase of U.S. Steel, an iconic American company based in Pittsburgh, by a Japanese corporation has led to political pandering in Pennsylvania and Ohio.

Steelworker union leaders there are attempting to thwart the sale by fueling anxieties regarding how Nippon Steel will address labor issues despite guarantees from Tokyo. In an effort to allay those concerns and demonstrate solidarity with steelworkers, Nippon Steel just announced it will be moving its U.S. headquarters from Houston to Pittsburgh.

Scuttling the deal would not only be a disservice to Americans; it would be a gift to the Peoples Republic of China.

A joint effort between major U.S. and Japanese steel companies would distinguish the new structure as a top three global producer of steel and dilute Beijings market domination in the contemporary era. Nippon Steel is ranked #4 globally, while U.S. Steel has dropped over several decades from the top to #27 today. The steep decline is mostly due to Beijings unfair trade practices, coupled with Washingtons inability to attend to the problem.

While recent congressional efforts to ban China-owned TikTok have rightly generated significant attention, comparatively less scrutiny has been given to the fact that Americas principal strategic adversary has gone from an industrial backwater to boasting six of the top 10 global steel companies in our lifetime.

Seismic shifts in steel production are even more dangerous to the United States and our allies.

The fact of the matter is that social media platforms come and go. Anyone remember MySpace? But steel endures. As the war between Russia and Ukraine bears out, no social media enterprise, diplomatic lever, economic sanction, or other instrument of power short of nuclear deterrence can replace cold, hard steel on the battlefield.

Planes, ships, tanks, armored vehicles, drones, bombs, bullets, missiles, land mines, rifles, knives, body armor, helmets, fuel tanks and shipping containers all rely on steel, either as principal components or in the manufacturing process. Standing idly by as an expansionist China produces over half the steel used globally presents grave national security concerns for Western nations and our East Asian allies.

The U.S.-Japan security alliance is the most formidable bulwark to Chinas moves on disputed islands and resource-rich waters with half-a-dozen countries nearby.

If the countries cannot come together on the joint production of steel  the essential ingredient in kinetic warfare  especially with the U.S. steel industry in decline, it begs the question: Why bother basing roughly 55,000 troops in Japan? Presidential candidates are shortsighted to neglect U.S. security interests in order to score Rust Belt votes.

Even worse than pandering for votes, big business interests in Ohio are also desperately trying to sink the U.S.-Japan deal, namely steel producer Cleveland-Cliffs.

This month the Wall Street Journal editorial board sharply criticized Cleveland-Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves boasting about his close ties with the Biden administration in an aptly titled piece, Steel-Making in the Swamp. Such warm ties may be behind President Joe Bidens apparent opposition to Nippon Steels purchase offer after months of quiet acquiescence.

For those that havent followed the saga of heavily indebted U.S. Steel over the past year, Cleveland-Cliffs attempted to buy it last August for $7.3 billion, less than half price of what Nippon Steel offered months later.

Rather than pander to the Rust Belt over the purchase of U.S. Steel, a far more productive use of presidential candidate time and energy could be directed toward fixing the underlying reasons the famed company is struggling in the first place. The main reason is China and its malign campaign to dump steel below market value around the world in an effort to crush its competition.

Many of the students that I teach in Baltimore  and some faculty colleagues, too  come from families that lifted themselves from poverty during the segregationist Jim Crow era by way of work in the steel and manufacturing sectors, only to experience the challenges of disinvestment and urban decay with the decline of these industries in the United States.

Bold measures that address trade issues and security concerns involving China are what Americans need in 2024, not the sinking of a key strategic allys bid to help rescue a celebrated yet struggling American company.

Are presidential candidates listening?

Ivan Sascha Sheehan is the associate dean of the College of Public Affairs and past executive director of the School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Baltimore. Opinions expressed are his own.
Freed students from the LEA Primary and Secondary School Kuriga upon their arrival at the state government house in Kaduna, Nigeria, are seen Monday, March 25, 2024. More than 130 Nigerian schoolchildren rescued after more than two weeks in captivity have arrived in their home state in northwestern Nigeria ahead of their anticipated reunions with families. (Olalekan Richard/AP)

KADUNA, Nigeria  Parents of more than 130 Nigerian schoolchildren who were rescued after more than two weeks in captivity said they saw them on Wednesday and that they couldnt hold back tears of joy during the long-awaited reunion.

The meeting, three days after the children were freed, took place at a government facility in the city of Kaduna, where the children are staying while receiving medical support, the parents and a teacher told The Associated Press.

The parents said they cried and danced as they hugged their children for the first time since March 7, when motorcycle-riding gunmen seized them from their school in the remote town of Kuriga in the northwestern Kaduna state, and forced them to march to nearby forests amid gunfire.

I am very happy and filled with joy, Shittu Abdullahi, whose 14-year-old daughter was among those kidnapped, said after the meeting.

It was unclear when the children  who range in years from under 10 to 15  would be allowed to go home. The local authorities have not responded to queries from the AP about the case. The parents said the government has promised to do so this week.

One staff member who was taken along with the 137 students died in captivity, military officials have said.

Ibrahim Mikalu said he broke down in tears as he embraced his 13-year-old daughter and added that the rest of the family are eager to see her home.

Freed by the Nigerian military on Sunday from a forest about 200 kilometers (20 miles) to the north in neighboring Zamfara state, the schoolchildren have been receiving medical support from the military and the government.

Their abduction was one of several mass school abductions that have shaken the West African nation in recent years. Authorities said no ransom was paid for the Kuriga childrens freedom but have provided no details of the rescue or said whether any suspected kidnappers were arrested.

No group has claimed responsibility for their kidnapping, which locals and authorities have blamed on bandit groups known for mass killings and kidnappings for ransom in the countrys conflict-battered north.

Arrests are rare as most victims are released only after ransom payments by their families or through deals that sometimes involve the release of gang members. The government, however, does not admit to such deals.

At least 1,400 students have been kidnapped from Nigerian schools since the 2014 kidnapping of 276 schoolgirls by Boko Haram militants in the village of Chibok in Borno state shocked the world. In recent years, abductions have been concentrated in the countrys conflict-battered northwestern and central regions, where dozens of armed groups often target villagers and travelers for ransom.
Davi Kopenawa, Yanomami leader, from left to right, French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Chief Raoni Metuktire and Chief Watatakalu Yawalapiti, leader of the Xingu women's movement, raise their arms in unison as they pose for a photo on Combu Island, near Belem, Para state, Brazil, Tuesday, March 26, 2024. (Eraldo Peres/AP)

SAO PAULO  The Brazilian and the French presidents on Tuesday announced a plan to invest 1 billion euros ($1.1 billion) in the Amazon, including parts of the rainforest in neighboring French Guiana.

The two countries governments said in a joint statement the money will be spread over the next four years to protect the rainforest. It will be a collaboration of state-run Brazilian banks and Frances investment agency. Private resources will also be welcomed, Brazil and France said.

French President Emmanuel Macron and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva are meeting this week to revive the relationship between the countries after years of frictions with former President Jair Bolsonaro, deepen cooperation to protect the rainforest and boost trade.

Macron started his three-day visit to Brazil in the Amazon city of Belem, where he met his long-time ally Lula. The French president then took a boat to the Combu island to meet with Indigenous leaders.

Both Macron and Lula saw a protest by Greenpeace Brazil with banners that read No oil in the Amazon. Brazils government has contemplated allowing the tapping of oil in a region close to the Para state, where Belem lies.

Lula said during a speech that Macrons visit is part of a global effort to beef up rainforest protections.

We want to convince those who have already deforested that they need to contribute in an important way to countries that still have their forests to keep them standing, Lula said in a speech next to the French president.

Macrons office prior said to the trip that a potential European trade deal with the South American bloc Mercosur wont be on the agenda. The French president is an opponent of such an agreement as long as South American producers dont respect the same environment and health standards as Europeans, after farmers raised concerns during protests across France and Europe.

The French president decorated Indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire with the prestigious Legion of Honor medal for efforts at conserving the rainforest.

You were in Europe and I promised to come here to your forest and be with your people in this forest that is coveted, Macron told the Indigenous leader, according to French radio RFI. President Lula and I have a common cause for one of our friends in this land that belongs to you.

Lula and Macron will seek to set a common course to fight both climate change and poverty, Macrons office said, as Brazil is to host the summit of the Group of 20 leading economies in Rio de Janeiro in November and UN climate talks in Belem next year.

On Wednesday, Macron and Lula will launch a diesel-powered submarine built in Brazil with French technology at the Itaguai shipyard outside Rio de Janeiro. The French president will then head to metropolis Sao Paulo to meet with Brazilian investors. On Thursday, the French president will head to Brasilia to again meet with Lula.

Corbet reported from Paris.
FMigrants wait to be processed by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol after they crossed the Rio Grande and entered the U.S. from Mexiconear Eagle Pass, Texas, in October 2023. (Eric Gay/AP)

NEW ORLEANS  Texas plans to arrest migrants suspected of illegally entering the U.S. will remain on hold under a federal appeals court order that likely prevents enforcement of Republican Gov. Greg Abbotts new immigration law until a broader decision on whether it is legal.

The 2-1 ruling late Tuesday is the second time a three-judge panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has put a temporary hold on the the Texas law. It follows a confusing few hours last week the Supreme Court allowed the law to take effect, setting off anger and anticipation along the U.S.-Mexico border.

The same panel of appeals judges will hear arguments on the law next week.

I think what we can draw from this, from the chaos that this has been are several conclusions, said Lisa Graybill, vice president of law and policy at the National Immigration Law Center. One is that this is clearly a controversial law. Two is that the politics of the justices on the bench are very clearly playing out in their rulings.

Texas authorities announced no arrests made under the law during that short window on March 19 before the appellate panel stepped in and blocked it.

In Tuesdays order, Chief Judge Priscilla Richman cited a 2012 Supreme Court decision that struck down portions of a strict Arizona immigration law, including arrest power. The Texas law is considered by opponents to be the most dramatic attempt by a state to police immigration since that Arizona law.

For nearly 150 years, the Supreme Court has held that the power to control immigration  the entry, admission, and removal of noncitizens  is exclusively a federal power, wrote Richman, an appointee of Republican President George W. Bush.

The Justice Department has argued that Texas law is a clear violation of federal authority and would create chaos at the border. Texas has argued that President Joe Bidens administration isnt doing enough to control the border and that the state has a right to take action.

The Texas law, Richman wrote, creates separate, distinct state criminal offenses and related procedures regarding unauthorized entry of noncitizens into Texas from outside the country and their removal.

She was joined in the opinion by Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez, a Biden appointee.

Judge Andrew Oldham, an appointee of former President Donald Trump and a former aide to Abbott, dissented from the majority decision.

Oldham wrote that the Biden administration faced a high bar to take sovereign power that Texas has to enforce a law its people and leaders want.

In our federal system, the State of Texas is supposed to retain at least some of its sovereignty, Oldham wrote. Its people are supposed to be able to use that sovereignty to elect representatives and send them to Austin to debate and enact laws that respond to the exigencies that Texans experience and that Texans want addressed.

The law was in effect for several hours on March 19 after the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way. But the high court didnt rule on the merits of the case. It instead sent the case back to the 5th Circuit, which suspended enforcement while it considered the latest appeal.

The latest ruling keeps the block in place.

Phone messages were left Wednesday seeking comment from spokespersons for Abbott and state Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The law signed by Abbott allows any Texas law enforcement officer to arrest people suspected of entering the country illegally. Once in custody, migrants could either agree to a Texas judges order to leave the U.S. or be prosecuted on misdemeanor charges of illegal entry. Migrants who dont leave could face arrest again under more serious felony charges.

Authorities have offered various explanations for how they might enforce the law. Mexico has said it would refuse to take back anyone who is ordered by Texas to cross the border.

The brief window while the law was in effect revealed that many sheriffs were unprepared, unable or uninterested in enforcing it.

Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland of Terrell County, which touches more than 50 miles (80 kilometers) of border, told The Associated Press last week said theres no practical way for him to enforce the law. Cleveland said he has no way to transport people, the county jail has space for just seven people and the closest port of entry is a drive of more than 2 1/2 hours away.

Smith County Sheriff Larry Smith, president of the Texas Sheriffs Association, said the law will have little effect in his jurisdiction in East Texas, which is closer to Louisiana and Oklahoma than Mexico which is nearly 400 miles (644 kilometers) away.

Critics have said the Texas law could lead to civil rights violations and racial profiling.

Supporters have rejected those concerns, saying arresting officers must have probable cause, which could include witnessing the illegal entry or seeing it on video. They also say that they expect the law would be used mostly in border counties, though it would apply statewide.

Associated Press writers Ken Miller in Oklahoma City, Acacia Coronado in Austin, Texas, and Elliot Spagat in San Diego contributed to this report.
Army Brig. Gen. Patrick Teague, U.S. defense attache to China, speaks during U.S. Army Pacifics first class in the China Way of War at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, on Feb. 9, 2024. (Taylor Gray/U.S. Army)

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii  About 2,500 years ago, the Chinese philosopher and general Sun Tzu counseled military strategists that to know the enemy, become the enemy.

U.S. Army Pacific has taken to heart that ancient advice to develop a deep understanding of an adversarys mindset with the launch of a course on the China Way of War.

The week-long course was piloted last fall, offered in Hawaii for the first time in February and will be pushed out across the Indo-Pacific region in coming months.

China and America are not enemies, of course, but they are deeply entwined in an economic, diplomatic and military competition. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has described Chinas military as Americas pacing challenge.

We wanted people within this command to think about how China thinks, Michael Schaefer, director of training at Army Pacific, said March 7 at Fort Shafter.

As compelling as the course may seem, China Way of War covers a much wider gamut than outright combat.

It doesnt just look at war, Schaefer said. Really, the idea would be, how do we prevent war? Thats really what were getting after  understanding that when we do something, there may be a response from China.

China is expected to have a fully modernized military by 2035, according to the Office of the Director of National Intelligences annual threat assessment published in February.

In the South China Sea, Beijing will continue to use its growing military and other maritime capabilities to try to intimidate rival claimants and to signal it has control over contested areas, the assessment states. Similarly, China is pressing Japan over contested areas in the East China Sea.

Strategic thinking

The China Way of War, open to uniformed and civilian personnel of all services, exposes participants to Chinese strategic thinking, providing them an understanding of how the Chinese army, officially the Peoples Liberation Army or PLA, might think about and act on varying scenarios.

It was modeled after a similar Army course in Europe that focused on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine two years ago, Schaefer said.

Army Pacific contracted Booz Allen Hamilton to design and facilitate its course, which is based entirely on open-source material and uses no classified information, Schaefer said.

As inscrutable as Chinas military might seem, its chain of command employs an organized metric in making decisions, he said.

Commanders in the U.S. armed forces use a defined military decision-making process in responding to defense scenarios, he said.

China has the same thing, he said. So, China has a deliberate decision-making process  completely unclassified. And its taught to [our] students so that each day they go through the decision-making process, and then they talk about what they think China may be thinking.

On day one of the course, each student is assigned a role in the Chinese military.

And then each day, the students are given scenarios, and they have to respond with how they think  theyre now the PLA  China is going to respond, he said.

For example, perhaps a high-level dignitary flies into the Indo-Pacific region on a junket to Taiwan, a self-governing island over which China has claims of sovereignty.

What do you think is going to be the response? Schaefer said.

Students talk through the scenario, offering the likely response by the Chinese entity they are portraying.

It is a reverse perspective considered too rarely in the U.S. armed forces, he said.

Blue on Red

In the military, were always the blue force; were always friendly guys taking on the red forces, no matter who it might be, he said.

As an intelligence officer, its incredibly important to know what the enemy thinks, so that you can try and predict what the enemy will do and why they make the decisions that they do, Maj. Louis Crist, 10th Support Group, U.S. Army Japan, a February class member at Schofield Barracks, said in a Feb. 14 Army news release.

That session also included guest speaker Brig. Gen. Patrick Teague, a senior defense official and defense attache to China.

Classes are limited to about 30 students, including students from allied and partner nations.

Schaefer said the Army intends to offer China Way of War eight to 10 times a year, including sessions taught by a mobile training team at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington, and in Alaska, Japan and South Korea.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center, leads the 6th Meeting of the 8th Central Committee on Jan. 19, 2022. (Korean Central News Agency)

SEOUL, South Korea  Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and a prominent politician herself, has dismissed the idea of her brother meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, according to North Koreas state media.

A summit meeting of the kind Japan requested is not a matter of concern for Pyongyang any longer, Kim Yo Jong said in a statement published Tuesday by the Korean Central News Agency. Tokyo had no courage to change history  and take the first step for fresh [North Korea]-Japan relations, she said, according to KCNA.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi acknowledged on Monday a KCNA report that Kishida had asked to meet with Kim as soon as possible.

The Japanese government had been reaching out to North Korea to resolve lingering issues, namely the communist regimes abduction of Japanese citizens and its continued weapons tests, Hayashi said.

The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs alleges North Korea abducted 17 Japanese citizens in the 1970s and 1980s. Then-North Korean leader Kim Jong Il on Sept. 17, 2002, admitted and apologized for 13 abductions during the first Japan-North Korea summit with then-Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi.

Five surviving abductees were returned to Japan one month after that summit. At a second summit May 22, 2004, in Pyongyang, the abductees North Korean family members were permitted to rejoin them in Japan.

North Korea has since claimed that all the abductees were returned to Japan and that the matter is settled.

So far this year, North Korea has test fired several ballistic missiles, including a solid-fueled intermediate-range missile from its eastern coast on Jan. 14.

The regime last fired several short-range ballistic missiles in succession on March 18, according to South Koreas military. The Japanese Defense Ministry said it counted at least three missiles launched.

A long-range ballistic missile fired by North Korea toward the Sea of Japan, or the East Sea, on April 13 prompted Japans alert system to warn Hokkaido residents to seek shelter.

The topics being raised by Kishida are unattainable issues which can never be settled, according to Kim Yo Jongs statement.

North Korea has only clarified its stand that it would welcome Japan if it is ready to make a new start, not being obsessed by the past, the statement added.

Kishida responded at a news conference Tuesday. Japan would like to continue its efforts to resolve the outstanding issues with North Korea based on its existing policy, according to a Mainichi Shimbun report that day.

Stars and Stripes reporter Hana Kusumoto contributed to this report.
Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisins administration has made same-sex marriage a signature issue, and advocates say it would also burnish Thailands reputation as an LGBTQ-friendly tourist destination. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg)

Thailands lawmakers passed a legislation to recognize same-sex marriage, paving the way for the country to become the first in Southeast Asia to guarantee marriage rights for gay and lesbian couples.

The 500-member House of Representatives voted to pass the so-called marriage equality bill, technically an amendment to the Civil and Commercial Code, in a final reading on Wednesday. As many as 400 lawmakers backed the legislation, while 10 opposed it and five members either abstained or didnt vote, after more than three hours of debate.

The bill now heads to the upper-house Senate, which is set to review it on April 2. It will then be endorsed by the King and published in the Royal Gazette. The amendments will take effect 120 days later.

When the changes come into force, Thailand will recognize marriage registrations of same-sex partners aged 18 and above, along with their rights to inheritance, tax allowances and child adoption, among others. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisins administration has made it a signature issue, and advocates say it would also burnish Thailands reputation as an LGBTQ-friendly tourist destination.

This will not take away any rights from men and women, and will instead extend the rights to LGBTQ groups, said Danuphorn Punnakanta, head of a panel of lawmakers that steered the bill. We seek to return to them the rights that they have lost.

The landmark legislation seeks to formally change the composition of a marriage from a man and a woman to two individuals, and change the official legal status from husband and wife to married couple. The move goes further than attempts by previous Thai administrations, which sought to grant equal rights for same-sex couples by formalizing civil partnerships but stopped short of recognizing their marriage.

Thailand will become the third place in Asia to recognize same-sex marriage, after Taiwan and Nepal, and rank among some 40 countries around the world to guarantee equal marital rights.

Recent efforts elsewhere in the region have had mixed results. Hong Kong has yet to comply with a 2023 court order to establish laws recognizing same-sex partnerships, and Indias Supreme Court refused to legalize same-sex marriage, saying its an issue for parliament to consider.

LGBTQ activists in Thailand have fought for over a decade for the same rights to marry as heterosexual couples. Although Thai laws have protected LGBTQ people from most kinds of discrimination since 2015, attempts to formalize marriage rights had stalled.

In 2021, the Constitutional Court upheld the law recognizing marriage as exclusively between a man and a woman. Last year, a bill to recognize same-sex civil partnerships failed to clear parliament ahead of elections.

Tourism boost

Legalizing same-sex marriage could also have positive impact on tourism, which contributes about 12% to the nations $500 billion economy. In 2019, before the pandemic froze international tourism, LGBTQ travel to Thailand generated about $6.5 billion, or 1.2% of gross domestic product, according to industry consultant LGBT Capital.

Formal recognition could boost the reputation of a place already considered one of Asias best for LGBTQ visitors, allowing it to benefit from the pink economy, said Wittaya Luangsasipong, managing director of Siam Pride, an LGBTQ-friendly travel agency in Bangkok.

It will become a selling point for Thailand and raise our strength in the global stage, Wittaya said. It will create a relaxed and safe atmosphere and attract more and more LGBTQ visitors. We could also see more weddings by LGBTQ couples, which could generate income across industries and local communities.

Many same-sex couples will also consider moving back or relocating to Thailand for work, he said.

Sretthas government has vowed to push ahead with more progressive laws, including legislations to recognize gender identity and legalize prostitution. The health ministry has also proposed legalizing commercial surrogacy to allow LGBTQ couples to adopt children. Thailand is seeking to host the WorldPride events in Bangkok in 2028.

The marriage equality bill is just the first step. There are many more to come, said Danuphorn of the ruling Pheu Thai Party. A gender identity bill will likely be proposed in the next sitting of the parliament that will begin in July, he said.

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Protestor Salwan Momika waves the Swedish flag outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm, on July 20, 2023, where he plans to burn a copy of the Quran and the Iraqi flag. Momika, an Iraqi man who carried out several Quran burnings in Sweden told a newspaper on Wednesday March 27, 2024 that he would seek asylum in neighboring Norway in the wake of a deportation order by authorities in Stockholm. (Oscar Olsson/TT via AP)

STOCKHOLM  An Iraqi man who carried out several Quran burnings in Sweden told a newspaper on Wednesday that he would seek asylum in neighboring Norway in the wake of a deportation order by authorities in Stockholm.

Salwan Momika, 37, has staged several burnings and desecrations of the sacred book of Islam in Sweden over the past few years.

I am on my way to Norway, Momika said in an interview published Wednesday by Swedish tabloid Expressen. Sweden only accepts terrorists who are granted asylum and given protection, while philosophers and thinkers are expelled.

Videos of Momikas provocative Quran burnings got worldwide publicity and raised anger and criticism in several Muslim nations, leading to riots and unrest in many places. He is currently being investigated by Swedish authorities for incitement against ethnic groups in Sweden.

According to Expressen, Momika is one of the reasons why Swedens NATO membership, which was finalized earlier this month, got delayed by months. Among other countries, his actions got wide publicity in NATO member Turkey, which vetoed Stockholms bid to join the military alliance for a lengthy period.

Swedens migration authorities revoked Momikas residence permit in October, saying he had provided incorrect information on his application and he would be deported to Iraq. But his deportation has been on hold for security reasons, because according to Momika, his life could be in danger if he were returned to his native country.

Swedish media reported that Momika was granted a residence permit in 2021. In connection with last years deportation decision, Momika was granted a new temporary residence permit that expires on April 16, according to Expressen.

I am moving to a country that welcomes me and respects me. Sweden doesnt respect me, Momika told the newspaper, adding that he had already entered Norway and was on his way to the capital, Oslo.

There was no immediate comment available from Norwegian authorities.
U.S. and Italian soldiers help inaugurate a memorial in Mignano Montelungo, Italy, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The monument is a tribute to 3rd Infantry Division forces who fought in Italy in World War II. (Michael Udejiofor/U.S. Army)

MIGNANO MONTELUNGO, Italy  A memorial honoring a U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Division offensive in World War II to break through German lines in a series of battles in 1943 and 1944 was unveiled this week.

Division commander Maj. Gen. Chris Norrie was among the speakers at the ceremony, which was held in the wake of the 80th anniversary of a string of battles between U.S. and allied troops and dug-in German forces trying to stop an advance on Rome.

They fought for their Italian, Canadian and British allies with them, for their families so far away from them, and most importantly, for the liberation of Italy from the enemies of freedom, Norrie said in a division statement Wednesday.

Italian Maj. Gen. Diego Pauvet joins U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Jonathan Reffeor and Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie, the 3rd Infantry Division commander, at the unveiling of a memorial in Mignano Montelungo, Italy, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. (Michael Udejiofor/U.S. Army)

Three division soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor for their actions during the battle, according to the statement.

The new memorial is on the grounds of an Italian military monument and is one of many such sites in the mountainous area between Naples and Rome.

Nearby is one marking a cave that provided refuge to Audie Murphy, a former 3rd Infantry soldier who became one of the most celebrated American heroes of World War II and later a Hollywood icon.

Based at Fort Stewart, Ga., the division saw extensive action in the war, taking part in battles in North Africa, Italy, France and Germany.

U.S. Army Spc. Ryan Halson, of the 3rd Infantry Division band, performs Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at the unveiling of a monument in Mignano Montelungo, Italy. The memorial honors soldiers from the division who waged an Italian offensive against the Nazis in World War II. (Michael Udejiofor/U.S. Army)

The divisions soldiers have helped defend Europe in the present as well, including a recent nine-month rotation in Poland to shore up the eastern flank of NATO.

Both the division and the Society of the Third Infantry Division have maintained ties to former sites around the Continent where key battles took place decades ago.

The 1943 and 1944 skirmishes, which included the Battle of Mignano Pass, also notably marked the first time that Italian troops saw action against their former German allies.

Italy changed sides after longtime fascist leader Benito Mussolini was removed from power. Several high-ranking Italian officers based at commands in Rome or Naples attended the unveiling of the memorial.
Marwan Barghouti raises his handcuffed hands in the air on the opening day of his trial at Tel Avivs District Court on Aug. 14, 2002. Relatives of Barghouti, the most prominent Palestinian political figure imprisoned by Israel, say he has been mistreated  allegations denied by Israel. (Brennan Linsley/AP)

The United States and governments in the Middle East have raised the treatment of Marwan Barghouti, one of the most prominent Palestinian political figures imprisoned by Israel, with the Israeli government following allegations from his family and others that he has been physically and psychologically mistreated since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.

Barghouti has been imprisoned for more than 20 years, and was convicted of murder in 2004. A leader of the second intifada, Barghouti, now 64, received five life sentences, and Israeli officials said he was a terrorist who ordered suicide bombings against civilian targets. Barghouti, who said in court he had no connection to the attacks, is being held in the Megiddo Prison, a maximum-security facility.

Securing Barghoutis release is a popular cause among Palestinians who see him as a possible successor to Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas. Barghouti has been near the top of Hamass list of prisoners it wants Israel to release in exchange for Israeli hostages held in Gaza, according to two Middle Eastern officials who are familiar with the negotiations to secure the release of hostages and a cease-fire. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive diplomacy.

In an interview with The Washington Post, Barghoutis son, Arab, who is based in the West Bank, said that after Oct. 7, when Hamas attacked southern Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, his father was physically assaulted, placed in solitary confinement in darkness for 12 days, and the Israeli national anthem was pumped into his cell at a very high volume, from around 5 a.m. until midnight, for many days.

A lawyer who met with Barghouti this week said in a written report to the Barghouti family that he saw bruising over his right eye and that Barghouti showed him bruising on his back and right foot. The lawyer wrote that Barghouti told him that, on March 6, I was beaten for long minutes all over my body, mainly on the face, back, and legs. The severity of the beating caused me to collapse to the ground, at which point they persisted in striking me until I lost consciousness.

The Post reviewed a copy of the report. Barghoutis lawyers declined to comment.

A spokesperson for the Israeli Prison Service said the service is a law-abiding organization. We have no knowledge of these claims.

The State Department has not named Barghouti in public statements, but U.S. officials said they are aware of allegations of abuse. The department said in a statement to The Post that it has informed Israel that it must thoroughly and transparently investigate credible allegations of and ensure accountability for any abuses or violations. The statement, which the department issued in response to questions about Barghouti, said that Palestinian detainees must be held in dignified conditions and in accordance with international law.

Itamar Ben Gvir, the far-right minister of national security in the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has since the Oct. 7 attacks barred the International Committee for the Red Cross, as well as family members, from visiting the roughly 9,000 Palestinian prisoners and security detainees in custody of the Israeli Prison Service. The ICRCs last publicly recorded visit with Barghouti was in November 2017, months after he finished a 24-day hunger strike.

We have continuously asked to resume our visits, as they are central not just to our mission in Israel and the Occupied Territories but because they are a lifeline for the detainees and their family, said Jessica Moussan, a spokeswoman for the ICRC.

During a visit to Israel on Friday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Israels war cabinet that it should allow the ICRC access to detainees, said a senior State Department official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss Blinkens closed-door discussions. Israeli rights groups submitted a Supreme Court petition to the same end on Feb 24.

An Israeli diplomatic official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the matter, denied any knowledge of the mistreatment of Barghouti: We have laws in our country; such behavior is not permitted and wont be condoned if indeed proven to be true.

The two Middle Eastern officials, who represent different governments, said they had received reports about the worsening situation of some Palestinian prisoners, including Barghouti, at the same time they were receiving reports about the harsh treatment of Israeli hostages in Hamas captivity.

It was communicated to the Israeli government that any bad treatment of Palestinian prisoners would give Hamas a bigger excuse to treat Israeli hostages worse than they are being treated already, said one of the officials. Its a vicious circle.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said the United States should specifically warn Israel about its treatment of Barghouti.

The Biden administration should make it very clear to the Netanyahu government that if Barghouti is harmed or killed in prison, it would throw gas on a raging fire, he said in an interview. Barghouti is probably the most popular Palestinian leader. Thats true in the West Bank and in Gaza.
A TikTok sign is displayed on their building in Culver City, Calif., March 11, 2024. (Damian Dovarganes/AP)

Imagine seeing a message on your Fords dashboard screen: The automaker wants you to support the governments new electric vehicle proposal.

That sounds weird, right? But TikTok is essentially using that tactic.

If you opened the app in recent weeks, TikTok may have urged you to contact Congress to oppose proposed legislation that could lead to a TikTok ban in the United States.

Uber and Airbnb have also repeatedly asked their users to oppose city government restrictions on the apps. And famously in 2012, websites including Wikipedia, Google and Reddit helped rally millions of their users to shoot down online piracy bills.

Persuasions like TikToks raise two questions: How much do you want technology companies to turn you into their lobbyists? And whats in it for you?

You might want products to inform you about policies that affect your life. But tech companies could also annoy you by repeatedly asking customers to advocate for corporate political campaigns.

Many companies try to convince you to support their business, social or political agendas. But starting in the 2010s with Uber and Airbnb, technology companies hit on a potent form of political persuasion.

With your attention through the apps in your pocket, companies enlist your support by stressing the potential  and perhaps overstated  risks to the apps conveniences or peoples livelihoods.

In cities including New York, Austin and, recently, Minneapolis, Uber has regularly warned its users in the app or by email or text that a service they like could be crippled by proposed regulations.

Airbnb in multiple cities has enlisted its hosts to oppose restrictions on the home rental service.

Sometimes rallying users has helped stop regulation. Sometimes it hasnt.

Uber warned users a few years ago that proposed New York regulations to reduce traffic and increase driver pay would cause fares to skyrocket.

The citys rules went through, and theres evidence that drivers are better off and passengers are no worse off. (Uber has said it disagrees.)

Uber, Lyft, DoorDash and other gig work companies also blitzed the apps users with scenarios of higher prices or suspended service unless people voted for a 2020 California ballot measure on contract workers. Voters approved it.

Companies have a right to persuade people and lawmakers over policies, said David Zipper, a transportation policy expert who recently wrote about Uber mobilizing users against regulation.

But Zipper is worried that tech companies with millions of customers have outsized power to skew your opinions and policy debates.

Theyre going to provide a one-sided portrait of whats at stake, Zipper said. If we dont recognize this sort of outreach for what it is, were prone to biases in policymaking.

When Congress in 2012 considered bills trying to stop people from stealing movies online, thousands of websites including Wikipedia and Reddit went dark for a day.

They popped up messages urging users to contact Congress to protest the bills that opponents called government censorship.

Some lawmakers complained back then about being overwhelmed with phone calls. Some lawmakers also said the websites misled people with scare tactics.

Members of Congress had similar complaints recently about TikToks user lobbying campaign.

The 2012 effort is considered the most successful consumer mobilization in the history of internet policy.

Fight for the Future, a digital rights group, said at the time that 3 million people emailed Congress to oppose the proposed laws known as SOPA and PIPA. The bills died.

Udbhav Tiwari, director of global product policy for the web browser company Mozilla, said the decade-old campaign had two ingredients needed to effectively mobilize people over regulations. TikTok has one of those two ingredients. (TikTok didnt respond to my questions.)

First, you have to feel like the outcome of the policy matters to your interests, not just those of a company.

TikToks messages urging you to oppose congressional legislation warn that you might lose access to an app you love. TikTok has also stressed that if the app is banned, some people might lose income they earn from TikTok videos.

Second, Tiwari said turning users into lobbyists is more effective if it involves multiple organizations. But the proposed TikTok legislation is focused on one app and TikTok is mostly alone in mobilizing users against it.

Tiwari said TikTok should be sparing in rallying app users to its policy campaigns. You might call Congress the first time a company asks, but it might feel unfair if youre asked again.

You can only play it once, he said.
A F-15EX Eagle II fighter jet takes off from Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. ((U.S. Air Force))

The first operational F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets will be assigned to the 142nd Wing of the Oregon Air National Guard, the unit that intercepts hostile aircraft over the northwest United States, the Air Force said.

The initial instructor pilots from the Portland-based wing were at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida to fly training versions of the jet, which the Air Force said can exceed twice the speed of sound.

The first two will arrive this summer, said Lt. Col. Joel Thesing, the 142nd Wings safety officer who was among the pilots.

In St. Louis, the first F-15EX bound for the Oregon wing rolled off the Boeing assembly line earlier this month. The Air Force has slated 18 F-15EX to be operational at the 142nd Wing by the end of 2025.

Thesing said the exterior profile of the aircraft resembles the F-15C jets now flown by the wing, but the new jets are nimbler to maneuver and the large-area display for avionics improves a pilots ability to process what was going on inside and outside the aircraft.

Its a generational leap, he said.

Boeing said in February the top speed for the F-15EX is 2,225 miles per hour  more than Mach 2.7 at sea level.

Yeah, its fast, Boeings Rob Novotny, a former Air Force F-15 test pilot, said in an interview with Aviation Week.

The Air Force said in budget documents released last week that it wants to acquire 144 F-15EXs eventually to replace aging F-15C/D models from the 1990s in the active-duty force and Air National Guard inventories.

The Air Force has focused most of its purchasing priority on the F-35A Lightning II multipurpose fighter, which also comes in a F-35B version for the Marines and a F-35C version to operate off Navy aircraft carriers. Congress approved buying 51 F-35A jets in the 2024 budget approved last week. Lawmakers are now debating the 2025 budget, which could add another 42 F-35s to the service.

Thesing said the F-35EX is well suited for the interdiction role of the 142nd Wing.

I look forward to when the focus can shift from how to fly the EX to how to employ it tactically, he said.
Paratroopers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade sleep on the floor after working through the evening prior to an early-morning combat equipment jump at Aviano, Italy, on March 17, 2018. (John Hall/U.S. Army)

The militarys approach to preventing fatigue is fragmented and requires greater oversight to prevent potentially fatal accidents and help sleep-deprived service members, a government watchdog agency said this week.

Dedicated leadership at the Pentagon and in each service is needed to oversee progress combatting the issue, the Government Accountability Office said in a report released Tuesday.

The GAO asked service members how sleep deprivation affected their work and several said that slower reaction times could have led to deaths, injuries and millions of dollars in property damage.

Sometimes when Im driving, I find myself falling asleep and I have to catch myself, said one respondent, who added that they feared they might kill someone due to lack of sleep. Rotary wing pilots, drone operators and aviation maintainers also reported fatigue interfering with their decision making.

U.S. service members have long complained of high operational tempos and sleep deprivation. Only about a third reported receiving seven or eight hours of sleep per night, according to periodic defense health surveys conducted between 2005 and 2018, the GAO report said. The majority reported sleeping six or fewer hours.

The Defense Department recommends at least seven hours per night for optimal performance and readiness.

DOD recognizes that impairment from fatigue can be equivalent to the effects of alcohol intoxication and significantly increases the risk of physical injury, the GAO report said.

Fatigue was identified as a factor in the June 2, 2016, crash of a Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet that killed Marine Corps Capt. Jeff Kuss at an airfield in Tennessee.

It was likewise identified by the National Transportation Safety Board as a contributing factor in the crash of the Navy destroyer USS John S. McCain on Aug. 21, 2017, which killed 10 sailors.

In response, Congress in 2022 ordered the GAO to undertake a comprehensive review of DOD efforts.

The report found that while there are many research projects across the services, the Pentagon hasnt facilitated collaboration and lacks leadership in key areas.

The GAO recommended that the Pentagon create an office to act as a focal point for its fatigue-related efforts, and that the office should have the authority, staffing, resources and commitment to oversee service-level programs.

DOD also should set up time frames for follow-on actions, coordinate with stakeholders and identify those responsible for implementing the recommendations of past fatigue-related studies, the report said.

The GAO also recommended that service secretaries assign leadership to work with the newly formed DOD office.
The South Bend Vet Center in Indiana in 2022. (Google Maps)

The family of an Indiana veteran who died by suicide after a Department of Veterans Affairs facility mismanaged his care will receive $1.7 million to settle a wrongful death claim, attorneys with the family said Wednesday.

Army veteran Jason Moon, 33, contacted the South Bend Vet Center for behavioral health care in 2020. But workers failed to conduct an appropriate suicide risk assessment or provide timely care, which lead to his death from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in his home Oct. 15, 2020, while his wife and three of his five children were there, according to a complaint filed with the familys wrongful death claim in 2022.

My husband was failed by a system that exists solely to support the men and women who have served our country, Moons wife, LaShanda Moon, said in a statement. I have spent nearly three and a half years reliving the worst night of my life hundreds of times while trying to be the voice for my husband and the other 22 veterans who end their lives every single day, as I have demanded the VA take accountability and pleaded with them to make policy changes.

Since the veterans death, VA has completed all eight actions recommended by an inspector general review of the facility that included an evaluation of Moons care, said Terrence Hayes, a VA spokesman. It also installed new leadership at the veterans center, strengthened oversight and implementation of suicide risk assessment and follow-up processes in alignment with national policy at centers across the nation.

Moving forward, we will continue to work to make sure that this does not happen again, Hayes said. There is nothing more important to VA than providing high-quality mental health care to veterans  especially veterans in crisis  whenever and wherever they need it. We are incredibly saddened and heartbroken by the loss of any veteran who dies by suicide, and we are doing everything in our power to prevent tragedies like this from happening in the future.

Jason Moon left the Army in 2017 as a chief warrant officer after serving two tours as a medical evacuation crew member during Operation Iraqi Freedom, according to the complaint. At the time of his death, Moon was in the Army National Guard and working toward becoming a Black Hawk helicopter pilot.

He suffered from nightmares and anxiety, which led to alcohol abuse, according to the complaint. His behavior became violent and unpredictable. LaShanda Moon said he was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder that had never been properly diagnosed.

Even with warning signs that he was likely going to harm himself, the veterans center placed Jason Moon in the care of an unlicensed intern, who was not properly supervised and only provided appointments by phone, according to the complaint. The intern failed to properly assess Moon and did not perform required suicide and lethality assessments. He also failed to collect records from an emergency room visit and admittance to an in-patient behavioral health facility, where Moon told staff that he felt hopeless and was thinking about suicide.

After the intern left the veterans center, a follow-up counselor did not return Moons messages and falsified records after his death to hide her own negligence and place the blame on the veteran, according to the complaint.

A VA inspector general report released in 2023 found the director of that center had informed his staff that categorizing a veterans risk of suicide as intermediate or high would negatively subject the veterans center to increased scrutiny from senior VA leaders. This led to staff rating the suicide risk as low for Moon, despite him reporting stressors that should have elevated it, according to the report.

Money does not bring back a person. Nor does it replace a parent or spouse, said Peter Bertling, attorney for the Moon family. But it can provide support for their future and for their lives going forward. The case also exposed serious errors made by the South Bend Vet Center that we hope are rectified so no other veteran has to suffer like Mr. Moon did. He served his country in wartime and was owed so much better than the mental health care he received.
The Islamabad High Court has ruled in favour of allowing the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to hold a rally in Islamabad, with an extraordinary conditions to the standard terms of reference (TORs)

Hearing a petition of the PTI against being denied permission to organise a public gathering, the court on Wednesday instructed the Islamabad administration to put forward whatever conditions they wanted to, but allow the party to hold its event.

During the hearing, IHC Chief Justice Amir Farooq emphasized the fundamental right to assembly, stating, "One's right to assembly cannot be taken away. Everyone has held rallies, you can set the terms and conditions and rules."

The court directed the PTI to comply with standard terms and conditions set by the Islamabad administration to ensure public safety during the rally.

PTI leader Sher Afzal Marwat told the court that they wanted to hold a rally in Islamabad, at which the court told the counsel to just make sure the rally does not lead to a law and order situation.

The standing counsel argued that the permission granted to the PTI for rallies in the past had been violated, adding that this time the party had been denied permission due to security threats.

In response, CJ Farooq told the counsel to set usual conditions as there was nothing wrong with that, adding that there should not be any extraordinary conditions and permission granted according to the standard terms of reference (TORs).

Marwat agreed to follow all kinds of conditions.

When the government counsel remarked that a tragic terrorism incident had taken place on Tuesday, Chief Justice Farooq asserted, "Life doesn't stop, it keeps going," emphasizing the need to combat terrorism without halting routine activities.

The court rejected the plea from the public prosecutor for additional time to seek instructions, with Chief Justice Farooq asserting the court's responsibility to make decisions promptly
A high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad today has decided that a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) will be formed for investigation into terrorist attack on Chinese engineers in Besham.

Sharing details of the meeting at a news conference in Islamabad today, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar said the meeting recognized the importance of adopting a coordinated strategy to curb the menace of terrorism.

He said a mechanism will be devised under this strategy to ensure greater coordination amongst the relevant stakeholders.

The Information Minister said the meeting applauded the role of security forces in the war on terrorism. He said the participants of the meeting were on the same page that no stone will be left unturned to eradicate the menace of terrorism. He said the whole nation is united in the war on terrorism, reaffirming that every possible step will be taken for the security of important installations, Chinese citizens and the Pakistani people.

The meeting was attended by the federal ministers, Army Chief Syed Asim Munir, the four provincial chief ministers as well as the chief secretaries and IGPs of the federating units.

Attaullah Tarar said anti-Pakistan elements want to hurt longstanding relationship between Pakistan and China but they will fail in their designs. He said this everlasting relationship will remain intact.

The Information Minister said China has always stood by Pakistan in difficult times. He said the country has always supported Pakistan's stance at the international forums. He said the CPEC is our lifeline and guarantor of economic development. He said Pakistan shares the grief and sorrow of the Chinese people at this hour of grief.
Strongly reacting to Shangla terrorist attack which claimed six lives including five Chinese nationals, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has said that the military "shall not leave any stone unturned to ensure that every foreign citizen, especially the Chinese nationals  contributing to the prosperity of Pakistan  is safe and secure in the country".

The army chief reiterated the resolve of armed forces to eliminate the scourge of terrorism afflicting the country during an emergency meeting chaired on Wednesday by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in the aftermath of Shanglas Besham city terrorist attack on Chinese nationals working on Dasu Hydel Power Project, read a statement issued by the Prime Ministers Office today.

The army chief said that the nation had steadfastly fought the war on terror for the last two decades and had defeated the nefarious designs of Pakistans adversaries.

Noting the recent surge in terrorist incidents, COAS Munir remarked that the enemies of Pakistan had once again "underestimated the resilience and grit of the state and the people of Pakistan".

He added: We shall fight terrorism till every terrorist casting an evil eye on Pakistan, its people and their guests, is eliminated; we shall not leave any stone unturned to ensure that every foreign citizen, especially the Chinese nationals, contributing to the prosperity of Pakistan, is safe and secure in Pakistan. We shall fight terrorism with all our might, to the very end.

The high-level meeting was also attended by the federal ministers, chief ministers, chief secretaries and inspector generals of police (IGPs) of respective provinces to discuss the heinous attack on innocent civilians working on a development project, meant to contribute to energy and water security of Pakistan.

PM Shehbaz offered deepest condolences to the families of the innocent victims of the attack and assured them that the perpetrators of this barbaric act would be brought to justice swiftly.

He underscored the enduring bond of brotherhood between the people of Pakistan and China and conveyed that the whole nation was saddened by the loss of Chinese lives.

He also appreciated the alacrity with which law enforcement agencies and locals responded to the attack, saving many precious lives which could have been lost. He instructed for a thorough joint investigation to be conducted, utilising all resources of the state.

The premier said: Terrorism is a trans-national threat that has been instrumentalised by the enemies of Pakistan to stymie Pakistans progress and development. The acts targeting Pakistan-China friendship are particularly aimed at creating mistrust between the two iron brothers.

Participants of the meeting expressed resolute commitment to completely rooting out terrorism from the country.

They also expressed serious concerns over sanctuaries available to terrorists across the borders and emphasised upon the need for a regional approach for countering terrorism.

The session concluded with the participants reiterating the resolve to comprehensively combat terrorism employing all resources available to the state.
The offences are alleged to have happened at Dublin Airport on March 26.

AN artist has been accused of importation and possession of cannabis following the seizure of an estimated 300,000 worth of the drug at Dublin Airport.

Joanna Zochowska (39) appeared in Dublin District Court charged over the discovery of 15kg of cannabis herb by Revenue officers at the airport yesterday.

Judge Treasa Kelly remanded her in custody after no bail application was made on her behalf.

Ms Zochowska, a Polish citizen living in Canada, is charged with simple possession of cannabis, importation of the drug and having it with intent to sell or supply.

The offences are alleged to have happened at Dublin Airport on March 26.

Garda Tanya Shinkins told Judge Kelly she arrested the accused for the purpose of charge at Dublin Airport garda station at 5.25pm yesterday.

Ms Zochowska was charged by a garda sergeant in Gda Shinkin's presence and made no reply to any of the counts after caution.

The accused was handed copies of the charge sheets, the garda said.

Ms Zochowskas solicitor said she was not making any bail application at this time.

She applied for free legal aid, saying her client, who was an artist, was an appropriate candidate.

Gda Shinkins said the case involved a substantial amount of drugs and there was no objection to legal aid.

The accused was remanded in custody to appear in court again on April 3, for DPP directions.

She was not required to address the court during the brief hearing and has not yet indicated how she intends to plead to the charges, which are under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
A landlord has been accused of damaging the vehicle of a former tenant at a location in Co Cork.

Colin OSullivan (46), of Carrigillihy, Union Hall, appeared at Skibbereen District Court in connection with the incident.

On a date unknown between October 5, 2022, and December 28, 2022, at Carrigillihy, it is alleged he did without lawful excuse damage a Chrysler Voyager car belonging to Gabriela Lake.

Gabriela Lake. Photo: Domnick Walsh

Mr O'Sullivan was arrested on February 23 and brought to Skibbereen garda station, where he was charged under section 2(1) of the Criminal Damage Act 1991.

Garda Carolann Ward said he made no reply when cautioned.

Counsel for Mr O'Sullivan sought a copy of the complainant's statement in relation to the alleged incident and asked that a date be set for hearing.

Gabriela Lake

Judge James McNulty remanded the accused on continuing bail until May 28.

He ordered for a copy of all statements to be made available to the defendant's legal team.

Mr O'Sullivan was present in court wearing a navy jacket and jeans.

He is being represented by Vincent Toher Solicitors.
Steven McDonnell (49) allegedly caused more than 2m worth of fire damage

A CRANE driver accused of an arson attack on a former pub earmarked for homeless accommodation has had his case further adjourned.

Steven McDonnell (49) allegedly caused more than 2m worth of fire damage to The old Shipwright pub in Ringsend in the early hours of New Years Eve.

The building on Thorncastle Street was set alight amid rumours it would be repurposed and used to house migrants.

Mr McDonnell (49) of Cambridge Park, Ringsend, is charged with causing criminal damage to the former pub by fire. Dublin District Court has heard he is denying the charge.

Mr McDonnell was granted bail when he first appeared in court last week. He is facing trial and the case had been put back to today for the preparation of a book of evidence.

Today, Garda Sergeant Derek Spain asked Judge Treasa Kelly for an adjournment to a date in June. Defence solicitor Holly Laher consented to this on behalf of Mr McDonnell, who was in court and had taken up bail.

Judge Kelly extended the time required for the service of the book of evidence and remanded the accused on continuing bail to June 7.

On the last court date, Detective Sergeant Jonathan Kelly of Irishtown Garda station said the accused made no reply when charged. In a contested bail hearing, Det Sgt Kelly said in excess of 2m worth of damage was done as a result of the fire, and there was also potential for the fire to spread to the adjoining building where people were residents.

Applying for bail, defence solicitor Tony Collier had said his client had lived at his current address for about 15 years and was married with four school-going children.

The solicitor said Mr McDonnell asserted his innocence in relation to this case, and could be waiting for two years for a trial.

Mr McDonnell was the main breadwinner for his family, held down a responsible job, and had surrendered his passport, Mr Collier said.

The accused, who had no prior convictions, was deeply rooted in his community.

Bail was set in the defendants bond at 250, as well as a 2,500 lodgement or independent surety in that amount.

Under conditions, he must sign on three days a week at his local Garda station, stay away from Thorncastle Street and Fitzwilliam Street, not apply for new travel documents, and have no contact by any means with the pub owner.

The court heard the DPP has directed trial on indictment, meaning the case will be dealt with at the Circuit Court when the book of evidence is ready.

At the time of the fire, the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive was prepared to use the property for homeless families, including some from the local area.
Darren Barrett (32) had 180 worth of pills on him when gardai apprehended him after seeing him engaging in a suspicious transaction.

A man caught with sedative and sleeping tablets for sale or supply after fleeing gardai on a bicycle has been jailed for a month.

Darren Barrett (32) had 180 worth of pills on him when gardai apprehended him after seeing him engaging in a suspicious transaction.

Judge Monika Leech said as well as having the drugs there was clearly an attempt to evade justice.

Barrett, of The Grove, Saint Marnocks Bay, Portmarnock, pleaded guilty to possession of drugs with intent to sell or supply.

Dublin District Court heard that gardai on patrol on Sheriff Street on February 22 last year saw Barrett on a bicycle engaging in a suspicious transaction with another man.

On seeing the gardai, both men fled on their bikes and gardai gave chase.

Barrett was located hiding behind bins and when searched, was found in possession of 80 worth of zopiclone and 100 worth of alprazolam. He was arrested and charged.

The accused had 90 previous convictions. He was from the Dublin 1 area but his family had moved to Portmarnock, defence solicitor Amanda Connolly said.

A recent bereavement had sent him off the rails and in his own words, he needs help, she said.

He was in a bad way and falling between two stools in relation to services.
Patrick Byrnes public order offending took off at an incredible rate when he began living on the streets, his defence said.

A drunken man who threw his head in the direction of gardai and spat at them during a litany of street disturbances had no history of this type of behaviour before he became homeless in Dublin, a court heard.

Patrick Byrnes public order offending took off at an incredible rate when he began living on the streets, his defence said.

Judge Monika Leech said there was a multiplicity of incidents in a continuous pattern and adjourned sentencing to later this week.

Byrne (31), of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to a series of public order charges at Dublin District Court.

The court heard Byrne and another man were found in a verbal argument on Dame Street on October 23 last year.

When told to move on, Byrne became aggressive to gardai, subjected them to a tirade of abuse and fled when they went to arrest him.

He attempted to strike gardai with his fists and legs before being arrested.

On February 4, he was seen attempting to fight a member of the public on OConnell Street and again tried to flee gardai.

He was arrested again on February 11, this time at the Mater Hospital. Gardai found him highly intoxicated and threatening staff while security restrained him.

On February 19, he was seen on Talbot Street, squaring up to members of the public, shouting in their faces, with an empty naggin of vodka in his pocket.

When gardai intervened, he took off his t-shirt, squared up to them and threw his head in their direction before attempting to spit at them.

Byrnes public order offending only began when he became homeless on the streets of Dublin and started drinking, and he had underlying psychiatric issues, his solicitor Yvonne Bambury said.

Before this, he lived a pro-social life.
Judge Monika Leech told him she would spare him a criminal record if he made a 350 charity donation, but she told him he needed to know his limits in his chosen career.

A Sommelier who hurled abuse at gardai when they found him in an aggressive confrontation on a Dublin street had too much to drink on the night, a court heard.

Lee McKenna (29) was arrested when he refused to move on during the row outside a garda station in the city centre.

Adjourning the case, Judge Monika Leech told him she would spare him a criminal record if he made a 350 charity donation, but she told him he needed to know his limits in his chosen career.

McKenna, with an address at Saint Michans House, Greek Street, Dublin 7 pleaded guilty to threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour, and failing to comply with garda directions.

Dublin District Court heard gardai on duty at Store Street station on February 9 heard shouting outside and went out to find the accused and another man acting in an aggressive manner to each other.

On approach, they acted in a threatening and abusive manner to the gardai and were both directed to desist. The other man complied but McKenna continued to be abusive to the gardai and was arrested.

He had no previous convictions.

The accused was undertaking a sommeliers course at the time and had too much to drink, the court heard. He was still on social welfare but due to have an interview for a job in a restaurant when he appeared in court.

McKenna had never been in trouble before and was very, very apologetic for his behaviour, his solicitor Evan Moore said.

Its a very unfortunate set of circumstances because if he intends pursuing that avenue as a career, he really needs to be aware of his limitations, Judge Leech said.

She said she would have some concerns but given McKennas lack of previous convictions and his apology, she would strike the charges out if he made a 350 donation to the Red Cross.

Adjourning the case to May, she said she did not think this sum was unreasonable.

McKenna was excused from attending court on the next date if a receipt for the payment is submitted.

If it is not paid, he will be fined 400 and convicted in default.
Judge Martin Nolan said these crimes were exceptionally serious

A teenager who stabbed two men during separate incidents has been jailed for two-and-a-half years.

Daryl Wade (18) stabbed an Italian student in the leg during a robbery in May 2022 and later stabbed a 17-year-old boy in the stomach after an attempted robbery in February 2023.

At a previous hearing, Judge Martin Nolan said these crimes were exceptionally serious.

He said attacking someone with a knife shows a certain violent propensity, adding that the court would worry about someone who used a knife on another person because they had crossed a Rubicon.

He noted the mitigation included the guilty plea, Wade's age and expressions of shame and remorse.

Judge Nolan said the court took the view that a period in custody was required to aid in the rehabilitation of Wade.

He previously told defence counsel Giollaiosa O Lideadha SC that the court could impose an immediate four-year period of detention or adjourn the case until after Wade's 18th birthday when a five-year sentence with two and half years suspended would be handed down.

After taking instructions from his client, Mr O Lideadha told the court his client wanted to be sentenced as an adult and Judge Nolan adjourned the case.

Wade, of Deerpark Drive, Kiltipper, Tallaght, pleaded guilty to multiple counts including assault causing harm, robbery and attempted robbery at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Finalising sentence, Judge Nolan said it was a serious incident.

Judge Nolan sentenced Wade to five years' imprisonment, but suspended the final two-and-a-half years on the basis of the mitigation offered and on the basis of Wade's age.

At an earlier hearing, an investigating garda said they were called to a park in Tallaght on May 8, 2022, following a report of a robbery in which a male was stabbed.

The victim was an Italian student, who had only recently arrived in Ireland.

When gardai arrived, they saw the injured party in agony and holding his left upper thigh. He was taken to hospital having sustained a 10cm deep stab wound to his thigh.

This victim was walking home through the park when he felt a blow to the back of his head. He stumbled and saw people behind him, but couldn't make out their faces.

They started to punch him and he fell to the ground. There were three males and he heard them shouting to take the money.

When the injured party said he had no money, he was punched in the face. His phone fell from his pocket and one of the group took it. His assailants ran away and he went after them.

One of the males dropped his phone and the victim picked it up. The males turned around and asked him for the phone. The victim was then punched.

The victim realised he had been stabbed in the leg and thought that one of the males, later identified as Wade, had stabbed him. He managed to get his phone back and his attackers ran away.

Wade was identified from CCTV, which also showed him delivering the initial blow to the back of the victim's head. The court heard the stabbing was not caught on the footage.

He was arrested and nothing of evidential value was obtained during interview. Gardai also obtained an audio recording of Wade discussing his involvement in this incident.

A victim impact statement was handed to the court, but not read aloud. The victim has since returned home to Italy.

The court heard that Wade also attempted to rob a brother and sister, both 17, who were out walking their dog on February 19, 2023.

They heard a voice behind them say give me all your money and your phone and that he had a knife.

The boy refused and there was a scuffle during which he grabbed the knife and his hands were cut.

His sister intervened and Wade appeared to be going towards her, when her brother was stabbed in the stomach. He told his sister to leave, but she didn't back away.

In her statement to gardai, the girl said Wade told her at one point to shut up or I'll stab you.

The boy sustained a deep stab wound to his abdomen which required stitches. He underwent surgery to treat the cuts to his hands and requires ongoing treatment for this injury.

Wade was later identified by the victims. Nothing of evidential value was obtained during interview.

The garda witnesses agreed with Mr O Lideadha that the guilty plea was of assistance to the prosecution of both cases. One local garda agreed that Wade was involved with a negative peer group and was taking drugs at the time of the offending.

It was also accepted that there was a recent period during which Wade has not come to garda attention.

Mr O Lideadha put to one of the gardai that his client was carrying a knife to protect himself as he felt under threat. It was also accepted that two of Wade's friends had died in tragic circumstances.

The court heard Wade is no longer living in the area and is working. He has a young child and his partner was present in court to support him.

A letter of apology, probation report and letter from his employer were handed to court. Mr O Lideadha asked the court to consider alternatives to custody as his client had changed his life in fundamental ways and was committed to rehabilitation.
Gary Brazil (44) and Bobby Griffin (20) are both charged with assaulting the woman

TWO men took part in a premeditated attack on a woman who was left with serious injuries after she was repeatedly stabbed in the groin at a Dublin flats complex, it is alleged.

Gary Brazil (44) and Bobby Griffin (20) are both charged with assaulting the woman who was allegedly attacked by a group of men and suffered four stab wounds to her vaginal area.

A court heard it was alleged that Mr Griffin sent a Snapchat message from his phone stating that the woman would be getting butchered on them stairs.

Judge Treasa Kelly granted them both bail despite garda objections and adjourned the cases for DPP directions.

Mr Brazil, of Upper Gardiner Street in the north inner city and Mr Griffin from Captains Avenue, Crumlin, are both charged with assault causing harm to the woman on March 6.

Dublin District Court heard the alleged attack happened at Thomas Court Bawn, Dublin 8.

Gary Brazil

Objecting to bail for Mr Brazil, Garda Tom O'Connor said gardai saw and heard a commotion on the third floor balcony of the flats complex at 8.05pm. They stopped four men who were fleeing down the stairs, including the accused.

Gardai also met the alleged victim who had severe bleeding to her leg and vaginal area and she told them she had been attacked by a number of males, one of whom had stabbed her with a white-handled knife.

A bloodstained knife was recovered from the top of the stairs down which the accused was fleeing.

Mr Brazil later denied all involvement.

The court heard phones were seized from both accused.

It was alleged Mr Griffins phone contained a Snapchat voice message sent from an account in his name. This stated: Im on my way back up with the blade. Hes getting butchered. (Named men) and whoever else comes out of the house. Theyre all getting it. (The woman) is getting butchered on them stairs as well. Little rats.

Garda Colm Carroll objected to Mr Griffins bail and said the nature of the evidence was pretty much identical. The evidence suggested the woman had been an intended target of the attack.

He said it was the states case that it was Mr Griffin who sent the voice message on his phone.

Bobby Griffin

The alleged victim was not in court to give evidence as although she had been discharged from hospital, she had mobility issues, was not fit for court and claimed she had been intimidated.

The court heard there were two other suspects who had not been charged.

It was alleged Mr Griffin contacted the woman after the attack and called her a rat.

She is very much in fear of the individuals who attacked her, Gda Carroll said.

He said he had massive fears that further violence might occur in the Dublin 8 area if Mr Griffin was bailed.

Applying for bail, defence solicitors Eoin Lysaght for Mr Brazil and Niall OConnor for Mr Griffin said their clients were presumed innocent and would abide by any conditions.

Judge Kelly said the charges were very serious but they were only allegations at this stage and she granted bail under strict conditions.

The accused must stay away from the location and have no contact directly or indirectly with the alleged victim and her family. They are also not to contact each other, two other named suspects and named "potential targets.

They must sign on daily at their local garda stations, notify gardai of any change of address and be contactable by phone at all times.

The accused were remanded on bail to appear in court again on May 22, for DPP directions.
21-year-old Curtis Ireland confirmed that I do indeed understand the four charges against him

Appearing at Ballymena Magistrates Court by videolink from police custody, 21-year-old Curtis Ireland confirmed that I do indeed understand the four charges against him.

Ireland, from Coolessna Walk in the town, is accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, attempting to cause GBH with intent, affray and possessing a bladed article, namely a machete, on Donalds Way in Limavady on March 4 this year.

Issuing a press release at the time of the incident as they appealed for information, a police spokesperson said they received a report of an altercation involving three men - one believed to be armed with a machete - in the Donald's Way area of the town shortly before 13:45 GMT that Monday.

One man suffered stab wounds to his arm and was taken to hospital for treatment, the police have said.

Giving evidence to the court Detective Constable Marshall said she believed she could connect Ireland to each of the charges and defence solicitor Ciaran Maguire confirmed that whole he was not applying for bail at this stage, the defendants prison release licence has been revoked.

He understands that and he understands that he will be remanded into custody, said Mr McIvor.

Commenting that I dont think I have seen this before, District Judge Nigel Broderick said there was a letter in the court papers which indicated that the police have the power to arrest him and take him straight to custody if they suspect the licence has been breached.

Remanding Ireland into custody, he adjourned the case to 15 April by videolink at Coleraine courthouse.
There could be somebody completely innocent caught up in the crossfire in a incident like this

A local Dublin City Councillor has condemned a reckless shooting in Ballymun yesterday in which two men were injured.

Both victims were hospitalised after shots were fired at a house in the early hours of yesterday morning.

Gardai said they received reports of a firearm being discharged at a home in the Shangan area of Ballymun shortly after 3am.

The two men were taken to hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Cllr Keith Connolly (FF) denounced the actions of the perpetrators.

Any shooting particularly at a house as in this case, has to be absolutely condemned, he said.

There could be somebody completely innocent caught up in the crossfire in a incident like this.

I would encourage anyone with any information whatsoever to contact Ballymun Garda Station.

Two men rushed to hospital after shots fired at home in North Dublin

The scene was preserved for technical examination yesterday evening as an investigation into the incident was launched at Ballymun Garda Station.

A garda spokesman has appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

Any road users or persons travelling in the Shangan area between 2.45am and 3.15am who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make this footage available to gardai, the spokesman said.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ballymun Garda Station on 01 6664400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.
Pam and her father Johnny appeared on Crimecall earlier this week where she described her youngest sibling as a gentle soul

At the time of Emer's death John Griffin had a tattoo similar to this one on his Adam's apple

The sister of Emer O'Loughlin has published the last known image of the chief suspect in her death online.

A new Facebook post on the 'Justice for Emer O'Loughlin' page depicts a photo of John Griffin which was taken several days after the event when Emers body was found in a burnt out caravan on the Galway-Clare border in April 2005.

It has taken 19 years to get this photo released to the public, Emers sister, Pam ,has written alongside the picture, it was only released because I agreed to do Crimecall on condition that this photo was released by the guards.

Pam and her father Johnny appeared on Crimecall earlier this week where she described her youngest sibling as a gentle soul who loved living in the rural part of the country away from the hustle and bustle.

Johnny recalled her love of art, photography and how she would take photos of flowers and later draw them.

He remembers hearing the news of the fire as the "worst day of my life" and how he had a sense straight away that foul play was involved in his daughters death.

Emer O'Loughlin and the chief suspect in her death, John Griffin

Emer (23) had just finished a year-long trip across the world with her long-term boyfriend Shane and was living with him in a mobile home on land owned by his family at the time

They planned to live at the caravan site in Ballybornagh until they could afford to build their own house.

On 8 April 2005, Shane received a call to say his neighbour John Griffins mobile home was on fire. When he arrived at the site, Emer was nowhere to be found. The electricity in their caravan had not been working that morning and she had talked about finding somewhere to charge her phone.

Human remains were visible in the burnt wreckage of the caravan and DNA results later confirmed it was Emer.

A post-mortem, however, was unable to determine her cause of death. It was not until 2010  after her body was exhumed  that it was concluded the young woman had suffered a violent death before the fire.

The Irish Independent reported at the time that she had died of severe head and back injuries. A traditional Nepalese knife was recovered from the remains of the caravan.

Griffin, the owner of the mobile home Emers body was discovered in, was nowhere to be found when the fire was first reported. Gardai later traced him to Galway City, and when interviewed he said he had stayed with a relative the night before Emers death and knew nothing about the blaze.

Two days after gardai tracked him down, Griffin barricaded himself inside Dun Aengus fort on Inis Mor. After a nine-hour stand-off with gardai he was admitted to a psychiatric hospital for five days.

On 18 April, after having shaved his head and beard, he boarded a ferry to Inis Mor. A pile of his clothes were later found folded on the edge of a cliff on the island.

Gardai believe Griffin faked his death and fled the country. He is believed to be hiding under an assumed name in Europe and there have been a number of reported sightings over the last decade.

An Interpol notice says he is suspected of murdering a young woman and of setting fire to the caravan after assaulting her.

At the time of Emer's death John Griffin had a tattoo similar to this one on his Adam's apple

A Crime Stoppers Appeal was launched in November 2011 by investigating gardai who said they were hoping that the public could assist them in their efforts to trace Griffin, who they believe may have information that will assist them in progressing their investigation.

Despite a number of reported sightings over the last decade Griffin has never been found and is now believed to be hiding under an assumed name somewhere in Europe.

A TG4 documentary that aired in May 2022 prompted her family to say they felt her case was finally getting the attention it deserved..

They revealed how their little sister Emer O'Loughlin was murdered on the 8th of April 2005.

She was 23 years old, it reads. She had been living in a mobile home in a very rural spot in County Galway on the west coast of Ireland.

On any other week day Emer would have been at college but on this particular day she was at home due to the funeral of Pope John Paul II. The electricity supply to her mobile home had failed and her phone battery was dead.

Her boyfriend suggested that she ask a neighbour in a mobile home in an adjoining field to charge it for her, he then left for work. That was the last time Emer was seen alive.

"Later that day human remains were found in the burnt out shell of the neighbours mobile home. It took a week before DNA confirmed that the remains were those of Emer, we then buried our little sister."

The post adds: "Right from the beginning, myself and my younger brother have done our best to push the case along.

"We used the media to keep the interest in Emer's case alive and to keep the pressure on.

"We met with the investigating police force as often as we could to enquire if there had been any new developments and we constantly questioned why a photo and name of the neighbour was not released to the public."

The post continues: "There have been a couple of TV programs made featuring Emer's case and crime stoppers offered a reward for information on the whereabouts of John Griffin, this has gone some way to making us feel that Emer's case is finally getting the attention and resources that it deserves.

"The past few years have been filled with many ups and downs, we have had our hopes lifted and then dashed, we have had half-truths told and been plain lied to by some, we have witnessed potentially vital information not being immediately passed onto the police and all the time there is the feeling that in an effort to protect themselves the whole story is not being told by some."
"We don't leave paper notes. We leave bullets and dead people behind."

Argentina forward Angel Di Maria received a threat at his family home on the outskirts of Rosario, domestic media said, amid an intense wave of drug-related violence in the central city from which Lionel Messi also hails.

Monday's message, following a similar threat last year to Argentine captain Messi, came a week after Di Maria, now playing for Portuguese champions Benfica, said he would like to end his career at his boyhood club, Rosario Central.

"Tell your son Angel not to come back to Rosario because we will kill a family member," the message read, according to the news portal Infobae, which cited police sources.

"Not even Pullaro is going to save you," it added, referring to the provincial governor, Maximiliano Pullaro. "We don't leave paper notes. We leave bullets and dead people behind."

Media said the motivation for the threats remains unclear, however, with police unable to discard any potential lines of investigation.

Police did not immediately respond to contact seeking comment.

A car left a sign carrying the message addressed to the Di Maria family in front of the private neighbourhood where the 36-year-old usually stays, media said.

Di Maria will start in Tuesday's friendly game against Costa Rica, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni told reporters later on Monday.

"Di Maria knows that he has our full support for whatever he needs. The important thing is that he plays, that will relax him a little."

Rosario, one of the world's largest agro-port hubs, is awash in violence as drug-trafficking groups have been lured by its appeal, experts say, as an outlet for illegal drugs to be sent other countries.

Last year's threat to Messi followed an attack by unidentified gunmen on a supermarket owned by the family of his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo.

Last week, the Argentine government said it would send a bill to Congress to allow the armed forces to intervene in internal security operations to fight drug trafficking and crime in Rosario.
A service in celebration of Dugdales life was held in the Crematorium Chapel at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin

Marion Coyle helps remove the tricolour from the coffin of veteran republican Rose Dugdale, at her funeral service at the Crematorium Chapel in Glasnevin, Dublin. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams attends the funeral service of veteran republican Rose Dugdale, at the Crematorium Chapel in Glasnevin, Dublin. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

Ruairi Gallagher carries the coffin of his mother Rose Dugdale to the Crematorium Chapel at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

The funeral of English heiress turned Provisional IRA member Rose Dugdale has heard she was a true revolutionary and a true legend.

Born in Devon in 1941, Dugdale later settled in Drimnagh. She died peacefully aged 83 at Maryfield Nursing Home in Chapelizod in Dublin on March 18.

Dugdale carried out bombings, raids and robberies during her time in the IRA and served six years in prison from 1974 to 1980 for her role in an 8m art heist and helicopter hijacking.

A service in celebration of Dugdales life was held in the Crematorium Chapel at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin.

Funeral of IRA bomber Rose Dugdale takes place in Dublin

A wicker coffin was carried into the chapel led by a bagpiper. Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams and People Before Profit TD Brid Smith were among the mourners.

Former Sinn Fein MLA Martina Anderson read a tribute to Dugdale at the service, remembering her for her journey from a privileged upbringing to the heart of the republican struggle.

I stand here with a sore yet proud heart, reminded of the remarkable journey I and so many others shared together with Rose in the depths of the Irish republican struggle, Ms Anderson said.

"Through her, intellectually, politically and personally, I learned invaluable lessons, as did many others, about resilience, dedication, speaking up, speaking out and the power of conviction.

"Roses legacy will forever be intertwined with the tapestry of Irelands fight for freedom.

Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams attends the funeral service of veteran republican Rose Dugdale, at the Crematorium Chapel in Glasnevin, Dublin. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

The Oxford graduate was the ringleader of the 1974 IRA raid on the Russborough House estate in Co Wicklow, in which 19 valuable paintings were stolen.

She was involved in other IRA operations during the Troubles, including a failed bid to drop bombs on to a police station in Strabane in Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland, using a helicopter hijacked across the border in Co Donegal.

The republican bombmaker was convicted and sentenced to nine years in prison for her IRA activities. She was pregnant at the time and gave birth to a son, Ruairi, inside Limerick prison.

Her partner Jim Monaghan also reflected on her life, remembering her as a force of nature.

The pair made homemade explosives together, and Monaghan was one of three Irish republicans arrested for training Farc rebels in Colombia.

He recalled meeting Dugdale for the first time in 1985 at a Sinn Fein office and being accused of being sent there by the powers that be.

"That day was the start of a 39-year friendship. Rose was a highly educated woman in politics, philosophy and economics.

"We both had a great interest in socialist politics and she taught me a lot.

Rose Dugdale

Monaghan said his partner was a woman of many talents and well known as an IRA volunteer, but she also taught economics, politics and philosophy.

"She also taught English classes when she was in Limerick Prison. The women that were there, some of them couldnt read, couldnt write," he said.

"She helped them through and she helped them read their letters and helped them write letters.

He said Dugdale had two bracelets on her wrist when she died. The first was made in the colours of the Irish tricolour. It was made by a Farc guerrilla in a Colombian prison and had a picture of Che Guevara on it.

The other bracelet was made in the colours of the Palestinian flag.

Marion Coyle helps remove the tricolour from the coffin of veteran republican Rose Dugdale, at her funeral service at the Crematorium Chapel in Glasnevin, Dublin. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

Christina McAuley, a friend of Dugdales, said her clothes are to be donated to the homeless following her death.

Ms McAuley read the poem The Lion and Albert by Marriott Edgar.

Sinn Fein TD for Dublin South-Central Aengus O Snodaigh read a eulogy for Dugdale.

"Rose was an enigma to the establishment. They couldnt, and cant still grasp, that somebody could turn their back on privilege in order to help the masses, he said.

"If they had spent any time with Rose, they would come away with a clear understanding of how her passion, her drive to help the oppressed, her determination to re-balance the world order was Rose literally putting her money where her mouth was.

"Having enjoyed an early life of privilege in England living with all the trappings of wealth, she went on to reject that life that was being shaped for her and embrace wholeheartedly with no regrets a life of struggle against British imperialism and world imperialism.

"She was a true Irish republican who opposed fascism and racism in all its forms, seeing them for what they are, tools to divide the poor.

Mr O Snodaigh said Dugdale was among a pantheon of Irish heroes who were originally from other countries, alongside former President Erskine Childers.

He told a story of Dugdale in her later years, who asked to canvas for Sinn Fein during a general election despite no longer being steady on her feet.

The decision was taken instead to allow her to canvas from a shop near her home in Drimnagh, where after a day of handing out leaflets, she was frozen solid but had no complaints.

"She was and is a true revolutionary and a true legend, he said.

Dugdales friend Marion Coyle was among those who spoke. Also a former member of the IRA, she served nine years in prison from 1976 to 1985 for the longest kidnapping in the history of the State.

Coyle spoke on behalf of Dugdales son Ruairi Gallagher.

"You will always live on in our hearts and never be forgotten. I love you, ma. Tiocfaidh ar la, Mr Gallaghers wrote in his tribute.

The 1987 Pet Shop Boys song Its A Sin was played at the conclusion of the service.
26/03/'24 Actor Jim Bartley pictured this afternoon at the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome for a service to celebrate the life of actor, Emmet Bergin..Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

Emmet Bergin's wife Sarah, pictured this afternoon at the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome for a service to celebrate the life of actor, Emmet Bergin..Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

26/03/'24 Actor Patrick Bergin and his partner Helen Goldin at the funeral of his brother, Emmet Bergin pictured this afternoon at the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome for a service to celebrate the life of actor, Emmet Bergin..Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

The funeral cortege arrives at the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome for a service to celebrate the life of actor, Emmet Bergin. Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

Actor Enda Oates pictured this afternoon at the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome for a service to celebrate the life of actor, Emmet Bergin. Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

Geraldine Plunkett, who played Mary in 'Glenroe', with Susan Slott, who played Shirley, at a service in Harold's Cross for the life of actor Emmet Bergin. Photo: Colin Keegan

Mourners at the service paying tribute to Glenroe actor Emmet Bergin today delivered a final standing ovation for the remarkable man remembered as a hero.

Mr Bergin, who had a thriving career on stage and on screen, died on March 15 at the age of 79.

He become a household name for his role as solicitor Dick Moran in the RTE soap opera, with his work also including a role in first production of Brian Friels Philadelphia, Here I Come! in the Gaiety Theatre, Sam Shepards True West, Sean OCaseys The Silver Tassie, and Henrik Ibsens Hedda Gabler.

Emmet Bergin plays Dick Moran in the Irish soap Glenroe. Picture: Collins

President Michael D Higgins was represented at the service by his aide-de-camp Col Stephen Howard, who passed on Mr Higgins condolences to the family.

Mr Bergin was remembered as a lifesaver and a hero during the service, during which tributes were paid to a very special man as the service began with Leonard Cohens Tower of Song.

A tribute from his wife, Sarah, was read to mourners gathered in the chapel at Mount Jerome in Harolds Cross.

One year, when it was coming up to my birthday, Emmet asked me what I wanted for a present, I said I just wanted a new hardback dictionary. And thats what he got me, she wrote.

"But when I opened it, I saw he had stuck a piece of paper on the inside cover on which he had written: There arent enough words to tell you how much I love you. I loved him. I know he loved me. And my heart will always be with his heart.

His daughter, poet Tara Bergin, described her father as a remarkable man who was totally unconventional, complex, real and fiercely intelligent.

"But he was also a messer, a fighter, an arguer, resistant to authority, resistant to being pinned down. So how can I even dare try to capture his spirit now?

She recalled his love for the natural world and his ability to make her laugh, even during the most difficult of times.

People think that actors spend their whole working life pretending, but its the opposite. The great actors find a way, maybe through the turn of their head, maybe how they drink a glass of water, they find a way for just an instance to show us the most profound truths of humanity, she said.

"The night before he died, my dad told me that what was important was to get it right, whatever youre doing, to do it as well as you can. Be honourable. He told me this, sitting in his chair, wearing his bandana like an outlaw and his brimmed hat which was pointing forwards, he said, where he was headed.

Emmet Bergin's wife Sarah, and daughter, Tara are pictured this afternoon at the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome for a service to celebrate the life of actor, Emmet Bergin..Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

A carousel of photos from throughout Mr Bergins life, some of which he took himself, was played during the service. It was accompanied by Raglan Road, described as a special song sung by Luke Kelly, a man Mr Bergin knew.

"He was my hero when I was a boy, he was a best pal when I was a man, his son Gavan told mourners.

In a note read out to those gathered in Mount Jerome, his sister Siobhan recalled how he once saved her from drowning in the River Barrow, later in life saving another young man from the canal in Harolds Cross and another man from the sea off the coast of Tintagel in Cornwall.

"My abiding memory of Emmet was him looking like a teddy boy, a cross between James Dean and Elvis Presley, leather jacket and jeans, slicked back hair, dancing around the lamppost with my sister Siobhan in her polka dot dress, his brother Pat said in a message recited to mourners.

His brother Pearse recalled his brothers lessons in fishing, describing him as having the magic while his brother Allen remembered a visit Mr Bergin paid him when they were in hospital with tuberculosis in their youth.

"He brought me comics, Beano and the Dandy. I was so proud that my big brother was coming to visit me.

Actor Patrick Bergin at the funeral of his brother, Emmet Bergin pictured this afternoon at the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome for a service to celebrate the life of actor, Emmet Bergin..Picture Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

Mourners also heard the actors own voice in a poignant moment during the service, as a recording played of the late star reciting a number of poems.

Celebrant Brian Whiteside said he came to realise Mr Bergin was so much more than the Glenroe man when he met his family last week and they recounted stories of the actor who loved photography, fishing and his signature hats.

He said the service was an opportunity to pay tribute to what we all know was a life well lived and to celebrate a man who was so loved and admired.

Mr Bergin would spend evenings fishing with his friend Paul Cullen in the west of Ireland, who described the peaceful moments on the water with the actor.

Mourners stood to deliver a moving final standing ovation for the actor, following the Bob Dylan song Tomorrow is a Long Time. Some danced as they left the chapel and Elvis Blue Suede Shoes rang out.
Patrick OMahony was the former chairman of the Irish Medicines Board

An accomplished businessman who died from head injuries he sustained from a fall on Croagh Patrick donated his body to medical science.

Patrick OMahony (78), of Barbourhill, Westport, Co Mayo, was praised by Mayo coroner Pat OConnor at his inquest yesterday for his selfless and generous decision to donate his body.

Mr OMahony, a keen hiker and mountain climber, suffered a serious fall on Croagh Patrick during inclement weather on November 17 last.

Despite the best efforts of emergency responders and staff at Mayo University Hospital (MUH), Mr OMahony, who sustained severe head injuries, could not be saved.

Mr OConnor, together with the pathologists who cared for Mr OMahony, commended his vital and important decision to donate his remains.

Mr OMahony was the former chairman of the Irish Medicines Board and provided assistance to the banking inquiry in an advisory role.

Pathologist at MUH, Dr Tamas Nemeth, in his autopsy report said Mr OMahonys decision to donate his body was deeply commendable.

Coroner Pat OConnor

Dr Nemeth wrote: This selfless act contributed significantly to the advancement of medical science.

His contribution will aid in the education of medical professionals and researchers, potentially saving and improving countless lives in the future, he wrote.

His generosity in making such a decision reflects a profound commitment to the welfare of others and his legacy will continue through the knowledge gained from his contribution.

Neilus Fitzpatrick, a fellow climber on Croagh Patrick on November 17, went to Mr OMahonys help on the mountain.

In his deposition, which was read to the inquest, he said he saw a man on the ground with a group of people surrounding him.

His eyes were open, and he was breathing, Mr Fitzpatrick said in his statement.

People on the mountain moved around him to keep him warm

An air ambulance later arrived.

When the time came, Mr Fitzpatrick assisted Mr OMahony into the helicopter which airlifted him to MUH.

Mary Kilroy, an employee of The Helm, Westport, gave evidence that Mr OMahony called for breakfast on November 17 as he had done for seven years previously.

He was in good form, Ms Kilroy said in a statement, which was read on her behalf to the inquest.

He said he was getting a bus to Croagh Patrick. I advised him the weather was not great but he said he was an experienced hillwalker.

Mr OMahony was brought by air ambulance to MUH.

He died in the hospitals intensive care unit the following day.

Medical evidence heard Mr OMahony died as a result of traumatic brain haemorrhage and multiple skull fractures.

The inquest heard that even if Mr OMahony had been fit to be transferred to Beaumont Hospital, his chances of survival would have been very limited.

Unfortunately, his condition did not permit the transport, the pathologists report said.

Mr OConnor returned a verdict of accidental death.

Mr OMahonys brother Barry, on behalf of his family, expressed their deep appreciation for the great care received by his brother in MUH and on the mountainside.

Pat had a very dignified passing thanks to them, he said.
The Court of Appeal in Dublin was told Eugene Hanratty left his victim with multiple broken bones in his face and the permanent loss of peripheral vision in one eye.

Oil tycoon Eugene Hanratty Sr, who battered a musician near to death, has lost his last bid to overturn his conviction with a judge saying his case lacked reality.

The 65-year-old thug was sentenced to three years behind bars in 2022 for a vicious and pre-meditated attack on Castleblayney man Martin McAllister in 2012.

Mr McAllister was knocked unconscious and repeatedly kicked and punched while callous Hanratty stamped on his arm knowing he playing several instruments.

Last Thursday Hanratty lost his case to have his conviction overturned or his sentence reduced.

Hanratty was described in court as a pillar of the community during his trial and it emerged 41 letters of recommendation from the local community in south Armagh had been handed into the court from the GAA and the church!

Mr McAllister was in court to hear the definitive judgement read out which dealt a double  and seemingly fatal - blow to cowardly Hanratty and his dream of being released from jail.

Dignified as ever all he would say afterwards was, Its all water under the bridge for me. Im glad its finally over. Im just going to get on with my life.

Martin McAllister suffered horrific injuries

The Court of Appeal in Dublin was told Hanratty left his victim with multiple broken bones in his face and the permanent loss of peripheral vision in one eye.

Hanratty Srs lawyers appealed the conviction, submitting that the matter should have been removed from the jury's consideration due to numerous failings in the prosecutions case.

Mr Guerin said that these failings significantly hampered the defendant when a significant passage of time had occurred between the 2012 incident and his October 2022 trial.

But President of the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice George Birmingham, said the trial judge was correct in refusing an application by the defence to withdraw the case from the jury.

In dismissing the conviction appeal, Mr Justice Birmingham said that upon reading the original trial transcripts, the Court of Appeal was struck by the extent to which the defence at trial focused on the quality of the Garda investigation and suggested deficiencies therein.

This, rather than the question of whether there was proof or guilt beyond reasonable doubt, or whether there was an absence thereof, was the focus of the attention, said the judge.

Mr Justice Birmingham said: We are bound to say that many of the arguments advanced lacked reality.

The judge then struck another blow to Hanratty by chucking out his second application to have his sentence reduced with his lawyers arguing it was unduly harsh.

He noted that the jury accepted the account of events given by the McAllisters at the trial.

The judge said Mr McAllister suffered multiple broken bones in his face, to both eye sockets, the permanent loss of peripheral vision in one eye, which impinges on his everyday life, reading texts, but in particular, music notation - a matter of particular seriousness for a musician.

Mr Justice Birmingham said the headline sentence of five years was entirely understandable, adding that there had been a reduction of one year in mitigation and a further year suspended, which he described as generous.

We see no basis for coming to a conclusion that the sentence was unduly severe, said Mr Justice Birmingham, who then dismissed both appeals.

Martin McAllister

The Sunday World first revealed how Hanratty  who had been a major sponsor of Crossmaglen GAA team  had tried every trick in the book to escape justice and dragged the criminal case out for a staggering ten years.

Images of his shocking injuries demonstrated the terrible impact the attack had taken on Mr McAllister.

The disturbing pictures taken a few days after the attack showed the imprint of a boot on the chin of Mr McAllister who also believes Hanratty targeted his hands, knowing he was a talented guitarist.

He told us two years ago he was assaulted because he had challenged Mr Hanratty about allegations of diesel sludge dumping and in 2010 had walked with then PSNI Chief Constable, Matt Baggott, down the main street of Crossmaglen, raising the issue  something he told the court made me very unpopular with certain people.

It emerged during sentencing that Hanratty Snr has two previous convictions; one for assault of a garda in 1989 and one for criminal damage in 1997.

Hanratty Snr was once accused of cross-border fuel smuggling and had 2m in 12 bank accounts frozen by the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB).

He always denied the claims made by CAB, however when the case came to court in 2007 the judge was told a settlement had been reached between the Bureau and Mr Hanratty  a settlement that it was agreed would remain confidential.

At Hanratty Snr's trial, Padraig Dwyer SC, defending, submitted that his client was a pillar of the community who contributed to local community activities including the church and the GAA. He said while his client does not fully accept the jury verdict, he does accept he did act and used excessive violence on the day.

The trial heard that Mr McAllister and his wife were driving near Castleblayney on their way to Crossmaglen when a vehicle approached with its headlights on full.

Mr McAllister told the trial that he felt his path was blocked by the other vehicle and recognised the occupants of the car as being father and son, Eugene Hanratty Snr and Eugene Jnr.

The trial heard that Hanratty Snr got out of his car and began an assault on Mr McAllister initially inside the injured partys vehicle.

He said that Hanratty Snr punched him a number of times in the head, pulled him down by the hair and kicked him before dragging him out of the vehicle.

He said the assault continued outside the car, with Hanratty Snr continually kicking him while he was on the ground. His right arm was stamped on and he went in and out of consciousness.
Our little boy Hugo James Maher has arrived and we couldnt be more in love. Aoife captioned the video.

Aoife and Brendan revealed they were expecting in November

Three time All-Ireland hurling champion Brendan Maher and former Miss Universe Ireland Aoife Hannon have welcomed their first child together.

Former pageant queen Aoife gave birth to a baby boy, named Hugo, in recent days.

The proud parents announced the news on Instagram by sharing a video of some sweet moments of the now family-of-three.

Our little boy Hugo James Maher has arrived and we couldnt be more in love. Aoife captioned the video.

She later shared a series of photos, including on the way to the hospital in early labour, Hugos arrival and the moment they got to bring their newborn son home.

Former Tipperary star Brendan was tagged in the posts.

Brendan with baby Hugo

"Some special moments from the past week, Aoife wrote on Instagram alongside the heart warming snaps.

The couple have been inundated with well wishes from followers online, including social media influencer Louise Cooney, who wrote: Hes home! I hope yer (sic) enjoying every minute of him.

Robyn Flanagan, who is expecting her first child with rugby star husband Joey Carbery wrote: Massive congratulations.

Meanwhile, former Miss Ireland Aoife Walsh also passed on her congratulations, commenting: Congrats, hes adorable.

The happy couple shared the news that they were expecting last November with a Polaroid photo that showed them beaming as they held up a sonogram.

Captioning the joint post, they wrote: We have a little baby due in March and we couldnt be happier.

Brendan and Aoife have been together since 2014 and tied the knot last May after getting engaged in 2020.

Aoife and Brendan revealed they were expecting in November

They said I do at Dromquinna Manor in Kenmare, Co Kerry surrounded by their family and friends, including a host of GAA stars.

We have such incredible members and followers here that I wanted to share it with you. Were now on honeymoon, they said at the time.

Tipperary hurler Brendan, who also won five Munster titles, retired from inter-county in 2021 but is still heavily involved with the sport, joining the Offaly background team this year.

Brendan was nominated for Hurler of the Year in 2010 and has won three All-Stars awards and eight major trophies in his inter-county career.

Aoife, who is a qualified physiotherapist, was crowned Miss Universe Ireland in 2011 and went on to set up her own business the Pilates Programme during the pandemic.
With the Easter break coinciding with the early part of the Roar hunting season, there will likely be big numbers of hunters taking to the bush this long weekend.

Recreational firearms user groups have been coordinating their messaging this year, to ensure safety remains top of mind to the thousands of hunters who might take to the hills and bush chasing roaring stags or croaking bucks this autumn.

Te Tari Pureke  Firearms Safety Authority, which chairs the Recreational Firearms Users Group, says New Zealand hunters in general have a good culture around firearms safety, but it only takes one mistake to ruin many peoples lives and the deer Roar has a spike in these types of incidents.

Recreational hunting is a big part of many New Zealanders lives, says Te Tari Pureke director of partnerships Mike McIlraith, We just want everyone involved to have a great time away and to head home safe at the end to their loved ones.

Mike says Te Tari Pureke will be running safety messages in mainstream media and has coordinated with key recreational firearms users groups who share the same safety goals for anyone out hunting this Roar.

Keeping themselves and others in their hunting area safe takes more than luck, says Mike.

Weve boiled it down to three key reminders for hunters this year  make a plan for your hunt and stick to it; always treat every firearm as loaded; and identify your target beyond all doubt.

Mike says hunters are lucky to be hunting in a time of high deer numbers in many places with lots of opportunities for deer.

Hunters dont need to be in a rush to shoot the first deer they see, they should take their time, and wait until they see the whole animal.

All of this helps to keep the hunter calm and make 100 per cent sure they have identified their target.

If they have any doubts, then dont shoot, he says.

Hunters shouldnt feel pressured to take the shot  no meat or no trophy is better than no mate!

We want all hunters to have a great Roar trip and come home safely.

- Police
New Zealand farms could stop buying 'blood phosphate' and lower their greenhouse gas emissions by getting a common fertiliser from local mines, a report says.

The report was written by mining company L&M Group and consultancy Agribusiness Group, but funded and released by the publicly funded Our Land and Water National Science Challenge.

About half the fertiliser used in New Zealand is phosphate, which boosts plant growth but also pollutes waterways when farmers use too much of it.

A separate, international study by New Zealand and UK authors - released at the same time - showed many farmers globally overuse phosphate, creating avoidable pollution, while others did not have enough to grow maximum food from their land.

The authors of the international peer-reviewed study in Nature Food warned people needed to ration it more carefully to make its benefits last more than 500 years, given it was not renewable.

As of 2021, New Zealand was the ninth biggest importer in the world, shipping in around 700,000 tonnes, with 51 per cent of that coming from Morocco, followed by Togo and China.

The Moroccan supply was probed in series of reports by Stuff in 2018, which traced the fertiliser's links to a long-running humanitarian crisis in a bitterly disputed area, Western Sahara, annexed by Morocco in the 1970s.

Monday's New Zealand study for Our Land and Water was finished in December and looked into options for mining phosphate locally, something L&M Group has been investigating.

It says mining phosphate in New Zealand would have around half the planet-heating effect of mining and transporting the imported stuff on which farmers currently rely.

Nitrous oxide from nitrogen-based fertiliser is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions in New Zealand, but that is a different type of fertiliser.

The report cited ethical benefits from opening local mines, saying: "Political and social issues relating to the use of 'blood phosphate' from the contested Western Sahara would be effectively addressed."

There would be environmental effects from open-cast mining, similar to quarrying limestone, the report says.

It says New Zealand could potentially produce a slower-release form of the fertiliser, which would be less prone to being washed into lakes, rivers and aquifers.

According to Stats NZ, 64 per cent of river lengths have phosphorus concentrations at levels posing an environmental risk.

L&M Group has identified deposits in Clarendon, Otago as well as North Canterbury and Kaikoura.

- RNZ/ Eloise Gibson
New research shows endometriosis sufferers in New Zealand are likely to show some improvement in quality of life if they practise self-compassion.

Te Whare Wananga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) doctoral candidate Chelsea Skinner surveyed 603 people with endometriosis and asked them about their experiences living with the chronic, gynaecological condition. Endometriosis is a result of tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) being found in places outside the uterus.

In New Zealand, endometriosis clinical guidelines were only established in 2020. There had been very little previous research, and limited or delayed access to healthcare remains an issue, says Chelsea.

Our health system is stretched, and we dont have the support that those with endo have in other countries. Endometriosis New Zealand doesnt have government funding, and knowledge and understanding of the condition and its prevalence is lacking.

Were working on current estimates that one in 10 women and those assigned female at birth likely have some form of endometriosis in New Zealand, but its probably higher than this.

Common endometriosis symptoms include painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, abnormal bleeding, bowel and bladder problems, fatigue and infertility.

There is still uncertainty about what causes the condition, and no cure. Quoting the published article, management focuses on symptom relief with varying degrees of success.

The study participants quality of life was found to be significantly impaired but those with higher levels of self-compassion perceived their symptoms to be less severe, which in turn related to less impairment in quality of life.

Self-compassion is defined as being kind, non-judgmental and understanding towards yourself in difficult times, being in touch with difficult experiences in a mindful and accepting manner and recognising that youre not alone in your experience, says Chelsea.

A lot of people get really frustrated and feel guilty about having to take time off work and study or dealing with other effects of endo. We cant really control the symptoms, but we can control how we respond to them.

Chelseas advice is to note down the symptoms so people can be specific with their GP. Sometimes it will be necessary to seek a second or third opinion.

Often people can get pushed around and not feel validated that their symptoms or experiences are real. You know yourself best, so its important to advocate for yourself, she says.

There will be days when it is harder to live with this condition, I know this through my own lived experience, but there are people out there willing to support you. Be kind to yourself.

The research, published by Skinner and her supervisor Associate Professor Roeline Kuijer from UCs School of Psychology, Speech & Hearing, was published recently in the international journal Psychology & Health, coinciding with International Endometriosis Awareness Month.
A small marae-based GP clinic in the Waikato is going to the High Court to try to get its data back from a medical IT company.

Waharoa's Raungaiti Marae Health Clinic has tried for more than two years to get a full clone of its patient data after finishing a contract with Health Support Systems for a practice management system.

Rawiri McKree Jansen, one of the clinic's GPs, says the clinic is small and "barely" makes a profit, but has several patients with complex needs.

It needs to be able to put its full patient data into its new practice management IT system to be able to seek funding and support for them, he says.

The clinic had taken a contract out with Health Support Systems to run Indici software, one of the main practice management systems used in New Zealand.

But when it found the system was not a good fit, it ended the contract and had expected to get its data back within a couple of weeks in a way that it could be put into a new system, says Rawiri.

But that has not happened and earlier this month, the trustees filed a claim in the High Court.

"This particular arrangement has been far too long, we're frustrated. Enough's enough.

"It's an entirely reasonable expectation that the data can be packaged up safely, reliably, accurately, handed back to the clinic so it can put it back into a PMS [patient management system]," he said.

The IT company is owned by Pinnacle Group which also ran a network of North Island GP clinics serving more than 400,000 people.

Chief executive Justin Butcher says it takes its contractual obligations very seriously and has been working with the software provider and the marae trust to find a resolution.

While he can't comment on the specifics because of the legal case, he understands the frustrations, he says.

The "data landscape" can be complex and clear standards are needed for secure data handling practices, he says.

"We understand the importance of this and are actively involved in efforts to develop a national standard, which would ultimately benefit all stakeholders."

-Rowan Quinn/RNZ.
After enduring more than two years of a gruelling odyssey of debilitating symptoms, Bay of Plenty resident Pam Coburn has been diagnosed with classical Ehlers-Danlos syndrome  cEDS, and the rare co-occurring condition Abdominal Vascular Compression Syndrome - AVCS.

Pam is deteriorating quickly, fighting for her life, and battling daily with debilitating abdominal and pelvic pain, fatigue, migraines, tinnitus and nausea.

As there is no treatment for EDS and AVCS is New Zealand, the only option she has available is to undergo urgent life-saving and expensive surgery in Europe. And time is running out, with around $180,000 needed to meet the cost of surgery.

EDS is a rare genetic connective tissue disorder, severely affecting Pams entire body. The AVCS conditions she also suffers from specifically includes Nutcracker Syndrome and May-Thurner Syndrome, and possible more.

The young mum and small business owner became severely unwell in August, 2021, previously enjoying an active adventurous life with husband Jon, and sons Benny, 8 years, and Ollie, 6 years.

Every day her family has watched as Pams quality of life has become critically reduced.

She is malnourished and has been tube-fed via different methods since April 2022, says Jon.

She can barely make it out of bed these last few months. She is deteriorating quickly.

Pams sister Renee Taylor has set up a Givealittle page to raise funds to meet the $180,000 goal.

EDS and AVCS are extremely misunderstood in New Zealand and there is little to no treatment for it here, says Renee.

Health insurance is also of no use. Both of these conditions are not acknowledged in New Zealand's public health system, nor covered by private health insurance.

Surgery overseas is now what needs to happen. Our mum Joy Veen will be accompanying her overseas for this.

Pam is reaching out to the community via the Pams Positively Full Life Facebook page asking businesses to donate a product, service, donation or voucher to create prize packs for a social media raffle.

Pams journey so far:

After two-and-a-half years and lots of self-advocating, Pam finally had a diagnosis this week.

If it wasn't for my desperate search for answers, the amazing online community of chronic illness sufferers on social media and a small handful of amazing specialists here in New Zealand, I wouldn't be where I am today, says Pam.

I was told it was all in my head. To just keep eating as it will improve. That all the scans were clear and my obs were normal. I was told it was IBS. It was confused with my previous history of gastroparesis. That I just needed to get active again. That my body would eventually recover with perseverance.

Pam Coburn with her husband Jon and sons Ollie, 6 years, and Benny, 8 years. Photo: Supplied.

Pams husband Jon recalls their gruelling time dealing with medical staff who were unable to help.

When she first went to Tauranga Hospital she spent 11 days there and was told they couldnt find anything. And she was told it was all in her head, says Jon.

She was sent home to be seen as an outpatient at Gastroenterology, but they didnt even see her in those 11 days she had stayed in hospital.

Jon says Pam finally had an outpatient appointment a couple of months later.

And then on Easter Tuesday in 2021 she had to go into Tauranga Hospital, and came home after three months.

A primary school teacher, Jon used up around 40 sick days taking their young boys back and forth from their home in Athenree to see their mum in hospital.

Pam gets constant infections down her tube which is how she gets fed. To get that fixed she has to go to the Emergency Department at Tauranga Hospital," says Jon.

One day I dropped her off at ED at 9am and picked her up at 6pm after shed had the five-minute procedure. That night there was an accident on State Highway 2 between Katikati and Athenree so we had to turn back to Tauranga, go over the Kaimais, through Te Aroha and Waihi, and finally ended up getting home at 11pm that night.

He says the two gastroenterology specialists at Tauranga Hospital had no idea and couldnt do anything to help Pam.

They said she would never be able to eat again and have to have a tube for the rest of her life. She cant even walk to the letterbox.

Jon says they went to see a rheumatologist in Auckland.

He diagnosed her and put in referrals to a private specialist in Hamilton otherwise we wouldnt have got anywhere, says Jon.

After a few hospital admissions, many doctors visits and self-funding specialists appointments, in September 2023 I found out I have EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome), says Pam.

I have been deteriorating fast since January 1, 2024, with more symptoms and increased older symptoms added to what I was already experiencing. 

This meant she had long bouts of being bedridden, and very little energy on days that werent as bad.

This led us having to stop home schooling and send the boys to school. I now spend the time theyre at school sleeping, resting or both.

Last Monday, March 18, Pam received the specialists report.

She says she always knew there was more going on and kept pursuing answers.

The key here is to listen to your body and don't stop speaking up. Don't stop asking questions. Don't stop your research. Don't take no for an answer.

She says her quality of life has been greatly reduced.

I'm in a huge amount of pain, all the time. I have chronic fatigue, nausea and can no longer manage anything orally. I have a pump for feeds and fluids through my NJ [nasojejunal tube].

Pam Coburn resting against a pillow with her sister Renee Taylor. Photo: Supplied.

Pam Coburn is needing life-saving and expensive surgery in Europe. Photo: supplied.

Pams mum Joy Veen and youngest sister Renee Taylor are taking over the task of advocating for her now.

They are in control of the fundraising and media attention. I have reached the peak of being able to do anything more than function. It seems, once I'd received my diagnosis, my body finally let go of the push, and 'gave in' to the symptoms.

She has found herself sleeping more the past week than she has in a long time.

The diagnosis, so far:

My scans have been reported on by a private specialist in New Zealand and they have found I have Nutcracker Syndrome and May Thurner Syndrome, says Pam.

I am going to get further opinions from specialists in Germany and Spain costing about $1000 combined. These both will include a detailed report and their recommendations because it is possible there is more going on.

Nutcracker Syndrome is a compression of the left renal vein.

I have a severe compression. And it's caused my body to re-route blood that would otherwise go to the kidneys into my ovaries and uterus.

Consequently Pams left kidney is enlarged, and there is a risk of kidney damage leading to kidney failure if untreated.

May Thurner Syndrome is a compression of the let iliac vein. This causes a disruption in blood flow and could lead to deep vein thrombosis and a pulmonary embolism.

Both of these Nutcracker and May Thurner syndromes are life threatening.

They are also a likely cause of my inability to eat, says Pam.

She is hopeful that surgery could lead to her being able to eat and drink again, and for the feeding tube to be removed.

Even though I'm on a feeding tube, and taking medications to help store fat, I am struggling to gain weight.

In three months she has put on a kilo and a half.

I'm sitting at a BMI of 16. I cannot risk losing any more weight, as surgery and the recovery from surgery becomes very difficult.

Surgery needs to happen sooner rather than later.

The cost will be about $200k with airfares, post-operative care and further recovery, physiotherapy, and tests in NZ privately on return.

Renee says getting the funds together fast, is key.

That means I can have surgery sooner, rather than later, says Pam.

Having surgery sooner, means a better chance of recovery, with less chances of more going wrong.

We need all the help we can get, says Renee.

To help Renee raise funds for Pams surgery and to give her a second chance at life, please go to her Givealittle page.
Pilar Martinez Malaga Wednesday, 27 March 2024, 16:14 Compartir Copiar enlace

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This year's high season for cruise ships, between April and June, will be marked by the arrival of fewer ships and fewer passengers than in 2023. There will, however, be an increase in the number of exclusive ships with fewer than a thousand berths, according to data from the Port of Malaga's website. These cruise ships are transporting tourists with greater purchasing power between destinations.

In the period from April to June, 99 cruise ships are expected to arrive with 170,169 passengers, compared to the 108 and more than 185,000 passengers in the same period in 2023. But the statistics also show the rise of "premium" and luxury cruise ships, with 51 of these berths being small ships with fewer than 1,000 passengers, compared to 46 in 2023.

Of the 26 ships with up to 1,000 passengers that will be moored in the port next April, a total of 15 have fewer than 250 passengers. These are top level cruise ships for which Malaga has become a top destination for due to its Palmeral terminal. Of the 37 stopovers planned in May, 17 will be for ships with under 1,000 passengers, seven of them even smaller, with under 250, and several of them with fewer than 100 passengers.

April, the busiest month of the year

April will be the busiest month of the year, with 46 berths scheduled and 74,000 passengers, according to the Port of Malaga's website. This will be followed by May, with 37 ships and 69,578 passengers, while in June, 16 stopovers are planned with 26,500 passengers. Of these ships, half are exclusive and with under 1,000 passengers.

Two of the giants of the sea, capable of bringing more than 6,300 passengers on board, will also call in at the Port of Malaga. The Oasis of the Seas, of the Royal Caribbean shipping company, will visit on 2 May and the MSC Grandiosa, of MSC Cruises, will dock at the Port of Malaga on 16 April from Casablanca, bound for Valencia.

In this first part of the high season there will be no day with more than four ships docked. The busiest day will be 22 April with three ships docking with a capacity for 12,000 people. After that, the next busiest period will be October and November.
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Washington  Lockheed Martin has won a U.S. Air Force competition to build a new type of training radar at its plant in suburban Syracuse, and locked down its first contract for a potentially lucrative long-term program.

The Air Force awarded Lockheed Martin an initial contract of $276 million to manufacture the next-generation radars for the Air Forces Advanced Range Threat System, known as ARTS-V3.

The deal, which includes production options for more orders, is expected to provide a new source of work at the Lockheed plant at Electronics Park in Salina that could lead to contracts worth billions of dollars over the next decade or more.

Lockheed officials said the company will team up with neighboring defense contractor SRC Inc. in Cicero to produce the new variable aperture digital radars for the training system.

A Lockheed spokesperson declined to disclose what percentage of the work will be performed at SRC.

For Lockheed Martin, the Air Force contract is the latest in a string of successes as it competes for new defense contracts. The surge in business at the Salina plant has boosted local employment to about 2,600 employees and contractors, said spokesperson Kelly Vann.

The employment total is a record high for Lockheed Martins campus at Electronics Park, where 300 employees were hired last year and 150 the previous year.

The new Air Force contract is not expected to lead to any immediate new hiring, Vann said, but the company is still seeking to fill about 100 jobs this year.

She said the new radar production is significant for the continued growth of the site and maintaining a presence in the area.

The growth comes 11 years after Lockheeds payroll in Salina declined to 1,600 people and the company made plans to close the plant and ship its remaining programs to other facilities.

Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., intervened and convinced Lockheed Martin to keep the plant open.

The new radar contract will help ensure the Salina plant thrives well into the future, Schumer said today as he announced the Air Forces selection of Lockheed Martin.

Syracuses world-class workforce will now produce the latest in cutting-edge radar for the U.S. Air Force, further cementing Syracuse as a global center for advanced manufacturing and technology, Schumer said in a statement.

Lockheed and SRC will manufacture a new variable aperture digital radar for the Air Force, using X-band and C-band radar systems to simulate radar-guided missiles or other foreign air defense threats.

The radars are part of a mobile, ground-based system that will be used during in-flight training exercises with Air Force crews in fighter jets or other aircraft.

Lockheed, the nations largest defense contractor, has partnered with SRC in the past on other radar projects. In 2013, the companies used their Central New York workforce to collaborate on the Q-53 counterfire target acquisition radar.

The Army awarded Lockheed Martin a $1.6 billion contract in March 2017 for production of Q-53 radars that track incoming rocket, mortar and artillery fire. The contract was the second largest in the history of the Salina plant.

Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751
Syracuse, N.Y. -- Two Syracuse men may be the first people in Onondaga County ever indicted under a New York state law similar to federal RICO laws.

Carl Newton Jr., 38, and Synike White, 32, are accused of acting as members of a Syracuse gang called Uptown, prosecutors said in an indictment filed in Onondaga County Court.

They are both charged with aggravated enterprise corruption, a New York State law similar to the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act also known as RICO.

District Attorney William Fitzpatrick -- who has been in his position for over three decades -- said that he has never prosecuted this charge.

Fitzpatrick said that his office was already building murder and attempted murder cases against the men and used the facts of that case to support this charge.

This new indictment allows prosecutors to charge a man with murder who previously avoided the charge. It is also a response to one of the men allegedly interfering with juror selection during his trial.

To prove the allegations, prosecutors will have to outline a pattern of criminal activity that includes at least two class B felonies -- such as third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance -- or higher. This indictment alleges a pattern of nine criminal acts.

Newton and White were already headed to trial in December for charges stemming from a murder and attempted murder. During jury selection, Judge Ted Limpert declared a mistrial after allegations of jury tampering.

Fitzpatrick said that the audacity of the attempt to interfere with the judicial process was part of why he chose to move forward with the rare charge and reindict the two men.

Newton was charged with the murder of Jarrette Johnson, who was shot in the 700 block of North Alvord Street on Aug. 15, 2021, and died less than a month later. White was originally charged with Johnsons murder but a grand jury did not indict him. White was charged alongside Newton for attempted murder after a shooting in the 200 block of Allen Street on July 28, 2021.

Under the new indictment, White is once again charged with Johnsons murder in addition to the attempted murder charges.

Both men also face accusations of acting as gang members with a pattern of criminal activity, according to the indictment.

The gang is alleged to have a history of narcotics trafficking, possession of illegal firearms and elimination of rival gang members or those who offended the Uptown hierarchy, prosecutors said.

Newton is alleged to be in a position of leadership in the Uptown organization, while White is accused of acting as a lesser follower, according to the indictment.

The indictment also names Kenneth Kinsey Jr., Newtons cousin as another Uptown gang leader. Kinsey was not charged in the indictment because he was just sentenced to 40 years to life in prison for the murder of Bobby Fort Jr. at a city block party, Fitzpatrick said.

The first criminal activity prosecutors laid out to establish a pattern was the attempted murder of Donta Albert on the 200 block of Allen Street which both men had previously been indicted for.

One year after the shooting on July 28, 2022, Newton and White illegally possessed the .45 caliber gun that was used to shoot Albert, prosecutors said. The handgun is described as an Uptown community gun meaning it gets handed off to different people associated with the organization at different times.

The third and fourth criminal acts alleged pertain to the murder of Jarrette Johnson on Aug. 15, 2021, and the illegal possession of the gun used to kill him. Prosecutors said that Newton and White saw Johnson driving and followed his car before pulling up beside him and fatally shooting the man with a 9 mm community gun.

White is accused of possessing another illegal handgun on Dec. 9, 2021 at the Parkside Commons apartments, which prosecutors described as a known Uptown gang hideout, according to the indictment.

In August 2021, White gave police a false statement that he was driving a car involved in police chase in an attempt to exonerate Kenneth Kinsey, who was allegedly driving the car, prosecutors said. Kinsey was out on bail facing a murder charge for Forts death. The gun used to shoot Albert was found in the area where the car was first stopped, prosecutors said.

The seventh and eighth criminal acts listed in the indictment accused Newton of twice attempting to threaten witnesses to crimes committed by members of the Uptown gang.

The final allegation used to tie the men to the Uptown gang centers around the allegations of juror tampering that led to the mistrial in December.

Newton and Kawan Woodley are accused of trying to influence the trial by communicating with potential jurors in the trial.

Woodley was arrested and charged with juror tampering this week. He was arraigned on the charges Wednesday and released from jail. Woodley is not facing charges related to the racketeering case.

Newton and White both face a maximum 25 to life if convicted of the aggravated enterprise corruption charge.

Newton was arraigned Thursday and White was arraigned Monday. Both men are being held in the Justice Center jail.

Fitzpatrick said that he hopes to prosecute more cases under this charge in the future. He said he has put prosecutor Alphonse Williams in charge of the gang prosecutions.

Staff writer Anne Hayes covers breaking news, crime and public safety. You can reach her at ahayes@syracuse.com.
Syracuse, N.Y.  A man took police on a nearly 30 mile chase Monday, running red lights, speeding at 120 mph and crashing into other cars before ending the chase in Syracuse, sheriffs deputies said Wednesday.

The chase with the 2014 Dodge Charger started around 1:22 p.m. in Volney, Oswego County Sheriffs Office deputies said in a news release. Deputies did not say why the pursuit started.

As Michael Mahalick avoided police, he ran over stop sticks that deflated one of the Chargers tires, deputies said. He drove on three tires while speeding past stop signs and red lights and toward oncoming traffic in opposite lanes, deputies said.

Mahalick had a passenger in his car during the chase, they said. At one point, the car rear ended another car and drove into a police car to get out of traffic, deputies said.

The pursuit went through Fulton, Phoenix and onto Interstate 81 near Syracuse, where Mahalick tried driving down the wrong way of an exit ramp, deputies said. Mahalick was barricaded and later surrendered to police, they said. The chase lasted 32 minutes.

He was charged with five counts of first-degree reckless endangerment, first-degree unlawful imprisonment, fourth-degree criminal mischief, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon and numerous traffic tickets, police said.

Deputies said he had a butterfly knife on him and two warrants for his arrest.

Staff writer Fernando Alba covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, question or comment? Reach him at falba@syracuse.com.
By Azernews

Ulviyya Shahin

Against the background of the expansion of relations between Azerbaijan and China, it is observed that many serious steps have been taken recently. The fact that Azerbaijan forms the main segment of the Great Silk Road between the East and the West and the growing interest of Europe in the Chinese economy in this regard stimulates the development of both political and economic relations between the two countries.

It is no coincidence that this year, Azerbaijan is hosting the COP29 international conference on climate change, which is the main goal of the world. From this point of view, the cooperation of a state with wide opportunities like China with Azerbaijan in this sphere is very important.

Hikmet Hajiyev, Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, expressed Azerbaijan's eagerness to engage in discussions with China regarding COP29 issues in an interview with Global Times.

The relationship between Azerbaijan and China is characterized by mutual respect, cooperation, and growing economic ties. Both countries continue to explore opportunities for collaboration across various sectors, contributing to regional stability and development.

Commenting on the views of Hikmat Hajiyev, as well as touching on Azerbaijan-China relations, Dr. Frank Musmar, an Executive Advisory Board President for the University of Maryland Global Campus, an Advisory member at the Abrahamic Accord Business Circle, a Board Member at Paris Metropolitan University answered several questions in an interview with AZERNEWS.

Q: Mr. Frank Musmar, why does Hikmet Hajiyev emphasize the importance of initial consultations and discussions with China regarding COP29 negotiations?

A: Relations and partnerships with China have been a top priority for Azerbaijan. President Ilham Aliyev set new priorities for developing the country, which will focus on further digital transformation, renewable energies, economic and social development, and strengthening ties with friendly countries and partners such as China. Azerbaijan perceives China as a source of knowledge, expertise, and technological advancement.

It is worth mentioning that the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29) will convene in November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Accordingly, Hosting COP29 in Azerbaijan and receiving support from the international community demonstrates the respect and confidence that the international community has for Azerbaijan. The importance of initial consultations and discussions with China regarding COP29 appears from the People's Republic of China's position as one of the leading countries in the world. Therefore, having initial consultations and discussions to understand China's position in the negotiation process is crucial for Azerbaijan.

Q: How does Azerbaijan intend to collaborate with China within the framework of COP29, particularly concerning the voice of the Global South?

A: As one of Chinas leading trade partners in the South Caucasus, Azerbaijan attaches particular importance to developing relations with China in all spheres. Azerbaijan is willing to collaborate with China within the framework of COP29 to emphasize the importance of the south corridor. One of the most remarkable examples of this successful cooperation could be observed in the field of economy and trade, which is fundamentally a result of the partnership created by the BRI Initiative. Azerbaijan was among the first countries to support this important global initiative, and our government has significantly contributed to its realization. In this context, projects like the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, initiated by Azerbaijan, and the commissioning of the Baku International Sea Trade Port in Alat, eventually resulted in the formation of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.

Q: Can you elaborate on Azerbaijan's expectations regarding its role as the host of COP29 and its relationship with international partners, including China?

A: The Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Azerbaijan is a highly significant event, with outcomes that hold relevance for Azerbaijan and the world. It will be a mark in history to comment on the new climate plans from Baku and determine whether the world can get back on a global emissions trajectory in line with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5C this century, as required by science under the Paris Agreement. China is leading the world in renewables. Wind and solar energy are expected to overtake coal in the country's electricity production capacity for the first time in 2024, making up 40% of total installed capacity. Accordingly, the relationship with China is significant to learn from their experiences in green Energy.

Q: How do you evaluate China and Azerbaijan's economic and political relations?

A: China recognized Azerbaijans independence in December 1991 and established official diplomatic channels with Azerbaijan shortly after in April 1992. President Ilham Aliyev has visited China five times since his tenure as president began in 2003. Azerbaijans energetic foreign policy, for example, its term on the UN Security Council and its current role as head of the Non-Aligned Movement, as well as its efforts to build international understanding and support for its position in the conflict with Armenia over Karabakh, are likely factors in Bakus engagement with Beijing. The geographic realities make Azerbaijan and China integral to each others overland transit ambitions. From January to November 2018, the trade volume between China and Azerbaijan was 1.165 billion US dollars. In 2015, the two countries signed the Memorandum of Understanding of the Silk Road Economic Belt between China and Azerbaijan, which has provided opportunities for cooperative development.
On March 20, 1949, the first run of a new streamlined passenger train made for passenger comfort and enjoyment left Oakland, Calif. headed for Chicago.

The three-day, two-night, 2,438-mile cross-country trip aboard the California Zephyr has become one of Americas most iconic and popular scenic rail journeys.

Built for comfort, not speed, the train was intended to let passengers enjoy the scenery of the west, including the dramatic Glenwood Canyon and the Colorado Rocky Mountains.

It was the first transcontinental passenger train to use Vista Dome observation cars that provide stunning 360-degree views of the countryside.

It's the 75th anniversary of the inauguration of the California Zephyr, which at the time that it was inaugurated in 1949 was a new kind of train, Paul Hammond, executive director of the Colorado Railroad Museum told The Denver Gazette. It was one that was no longer racing to be the fastest.

That was the typical plan used prior to the Zephyr, currently operated by Amtrak  get there as fast as possible.

Hammond said that steam trains of the past crossed Wyoming at 125 miles per hour.

At a time when interstate highways were being built and the jet airplane was just coming into existence, railroads realized maybe it's better to have a train that is all about the journey, not just about getting there fast, Hammond said.

The trip across America gives passengers a tour of geography and culture, climbing the Rocky Mountains and passing deep under the Continental Divide through the 6.2-mile-long Moffat Tunnel at the trips highest elevation of 9,270 feet above sea level.

I think of the grandeur of Colorado. Everybody thinks of Glenwood Canyon and that's beautiful, but there's several other really spectacular points. Climbing up from the front range is one of them, through the Flatirons, said Hammond. And you also then have the Eagle River Canyon. So, there's some really beautiful canyons along the way.

Today the train stops at 37 stations along the route, and in many smaller communities Amtrak said it is the only option for intercity transportation.

In Colorado the train stops daily in Fort Morgan, Denver, Fraser-Winter Park, Granby, Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction.

In September 1950 a monument to the Vista Dome rail car was erected in Glenwood Canyon, opposite the rail line that first opened in 1887.

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Built by the Rio Grande railroad and General Motors, and inspired by General Motors executive Cyrus Osborn, who came up with the domed rail car idea during a 1944 trip through Glenwood Canyon, the stone arch carried a miniature replica Vista Dome rail car.

It was an iconic stop for travelers through Glenwood Canyon on the original two-lane highway, but in the 1970s people started using the rail car as a target and the car was removed and placed in storage.

When the new I-70 dual-level interstate highway was built between 1980 and 1992, there was no place for the monument, so it was moved to the Colorado Railroad Museum in the summer of 1985 and the damaged model was repaired and reinstalled atop the arch.

Moving the monument turned out to be a monumental task, said Hammond. It weighs 29 tons and moving it was dramatic, according to Darrell Arndt, who worked on the project.

It was a challenge figuring out how to move the big foundation, figuring out how to pick it up, how to put it on a truck, and then as an overweight, over-height load, drive it under cover of darkness here to Golden and almost tip over the crane that placed it on the ground here, Hammond said. All kinds of interesting drama that came out in the photographs that we got this week from Darrell Arndt, right here in the front, who helped put this whole crazy idea together.

Officials re-dedicated the monument Saturday at the railroad museum in conjunction with the California Zephyr's 75th anniversary.

The Colorado Railroad Museum was started by Robert W. Richardson in Alamosa at a time when Colorados narrow-gauge railroads started going out of business in the 1940s. Richardson began collecting rolling stock and railroad records to preserve Colorados railroad history. In 1958, running out of room in Alamosa, Richardson and Cornelius W. Hauck purchased land in Golden and moved all of the locomotives and cars there.

Included in the museums collection is diesel-electric locomotive No. 5771, its B-unit No. 5762, and two rail cars that were used on the route.

Kip Davis, a volunteer docent and railroad worker who operated No. 5771, explained the locomotives operation in the cab to visitors during the commemoration.

This site first welcomed guests in 1959. So, we're actually celebrating our 65th year this year, and the museum has grown immensely, said Hammond. We just welcomed about a hundred thousand guests last year, which is a new record for us.

We haven't thrown a commemoration event like this one before, Hammond added. I hope we have some more opportunities, but we run trains every Saturday. In the summer months, we'll go to a four day a week schedule on that. We're really trying to be a place people want to come throughout the year to explore Colorado's rich railroad heritage.

For more information go to the Colorado Railroad Museum website.
New York  NBC News cut ties Tuesday with former Republican National Committee chief Ronna McDaniel less than a week after hiring her as an on-air political contributor, a decision that came following a furious protest by some of its journalists and commentators.

In announcing the decision in a memo, NBC Universal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde apologized to staff members who felt let down by the hire, acknowledging he had signed off on it.

No organization, particularly a newsroom, can succeed unless it is cohesive and aligned, Conde wrote. Over the last few days, it has become clear that this appointment undermines that goal.

There was no immediate comment from McDaniel. She found out she lost her job through media reports, not from NBC directly, said a person close to her who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak about it publicly.

NBC announced Friday that McDaniel would contribute commentary across network platforms, saying that it wanted the perspective of someone with inside knowledge about the Republican Party and former President Donald Trump heading in to the 2024 election.

The response from journalists and others within the network was swift  and public. Former Meet the Press moderator Chuck Todd criticized his bosses on the air Sunday for the hire, saying he didnt know what to believe from her after she supported former President Donald Trump in gaslighting and character assassination following the 2020 election.

An extraordinary succession of MSNBC hosts  Joe Scarborough, Rachel Maddow, Joy Reid, Nicolle Wallace, Jen Psaki and Lawrence ODonnell  all publicly protested the decision to hire McDaniel on their shows Monday.

It is a sign of strength, not weakness, to acknowledge that youre wrong, Maddow said on her show.

Republicans countered that the protest indicates that people at NBC News, particularly at MSNBC, were unwilling to countenance opposing viewpoints. The hiring, and quick firing, represents one of those rare instances likely to unite the left and right  in anger.

NBC caving in to the censors, Elon Musk, owner of X, formerly Twitter, posted on his platform.

Those who protested her hiring claimed that it wasnt because McDaniel is a Republican, but it was because she helped promote Trumps lies about the 2020 presidential election and assisted in efforts to overturn the results.

Efforts by news organizations to hire former politicians is hardly new. NBC News hired Psaki directly from her job as press secretary to President Joe Biden, and another former Republican National Committee chairman, Michael Steele, hosts a weekend show on MSNBC.

But there are concerns that the McDaniel episode may make it difficult for networks to find voices this year that can provide insight into Trump and his campaign.
May the Force be with you, Captain Kirk.

Iconic Star Trek actor William Shatner is boldly coming to Syracuse for an autograph signing event at Destiny USA on Saturday, May 4. The event, presented by Cooperstown Connection and Gentlemens Corner Barber Shop, will take place from 1-3 p.m. at Cooperstown Connection on the malls second level.
NY Cannabis Insider is hosting an industry meetup in New York City on April 2 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. The evening will feature a special discussion with panelists who represent the biggest components of the adult-use ecosystem throughout the state: cultivators, processors, dispensaries, and laboratories. Details and a limited number of tickets are available here.

This State of the State will dive into whats working, whats not, what needs to happen next, and what those looking to get into the industry should consider before making the leap. Opening remarks will be shared by Jenny Argie, one of New Yorks first licensed cannabis processors, who recently sued the Office of Cannabis Management over claims that the agency acted in retaliatory, arbitrary and capricious ways.

There will be a chance for attendees to interact directly with the speakers during and after a Q&A, along with open networking time to meet others in the industry. This is a unique opportunity for attendees to hear from and understand the challenges/needs currently affecting the industry.

Panelists sharing their perspectives include:

 Brittany Carbone has been an operator in NYs cannabis space since 2017 as a brand leader, cultivator, and manufacturer. Brittany leads the all-female team at TONIC as the founder & CEO and is the co-founder of Tricolla Farms - a certified organic, family-owned farm that has been fueling TONIC products since 2018. Carbone is also vice president of the Cannabis Association of NY and leads the associations Sustainability Committee.

 Brian Lane is one of the owners and compliance manager at NOWAVE in Rochester, NY. NOWAVE is a cGMP certified cannabis facility which has held a New York State hemp license since 2018. In his current role, Lane is responsible for the cGMP certification, licensing, and regulatory requirements to keep NOWAVE in good standing with New York State.

 Ellen Parkin has been working in the cannabis industry for nine years. After six years on the West Coast in quality management and laboratory director roles, Ellen joined the Green Analytics laboratory group, overseeing quality and operations for their NJ, NY, and PA locations. Ellen is currently serving as both regional quality director and lead technical director for the Green Analytics NY laboratory.

 Jeremy Rivera is the embodiment of resilience and redemption, transforming his past into a catalyst for positive change in both the cannabis industry and his community. As the owner of Terp Bros Cannabis Dispensary in Astoria, Queens, his journey is a testament to the power of second chances and the pursuit of justice reform.

Industry stakeholders will discuss the "state of the state" at the April 2, 2024 NY Cannabis Insider meetup in New York City.NY Cannabis Insider

This limited-ticket event will bring together current and hopeful licensees, entrepreneurs, attorneys, politicians and more for an intimate discussion about the state of the state for the cannabis industry. Click here for more details and to purchase tickets.

Our sponsors and partners are the businesses shaping the industry locally and regionally. Look for them at the event for advice and help with your cannabis business:

 Jeffrey Hoffman & Associates PLLC is a firm that focuses on clients in the cannabis industry, including licensees in the adult-use cannabis market, patients and practitioners in the medical cannabis space, and cannabis adjacent product and service providers.

 Cannabis Workforce Initiative is a collaboration between the New York State School of Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University and the Workforce Development Institute. Its mission is to promote and support social equity in the adult-use cannabis market by providing quality workforce development and legal education.

 Marino is a holistic strategic communications firm delivering data driven, fully integrated strategies focused on changing perceptions, amplifying impressions and fostering high-level relationships to build brands.

 Third Thursday is a friendly monthly gathering of cannabis industry operators and people who want to join or learn more about the industry.

Space is limited at the event and sponsorships are still available. Contact Lindsay Wickham at lwickham@advancemediany.com to learn more about opportunities to reach this audience.

NY Cannabis Insider events are attended by industry professionals, lobbyists and entrepreneurs looking to start their own cannabis business, as well as those from cannabis-adjacent businesses such as legal, security, retail, banking, finance, construction, engineering, business consultation and medical expertise.

Our next industry events will be networking meetups held on May 14 (Buffalo) and June 13 (Syracuse). For more information, visit https://www.advancemediany.com/ny-cannabis-insider-live/. Follow us on LinkedIn for event announcements.
Traffic jams that last 12 hours. Gas stations that cant meet the demand for fuel. Jammed-up cellphone networks.

Those are just some of the concerning conditions New York authorities are preparing for ahead of next months total solar eclipse  a once-in-a-lifetime event that could bring millions of tourists into the Empire State.

So far, two New York State Police troops have warned the public to prepare for an influx of people to snarl traffic on April 8, the day of the eclipse.

Troop B, which serves the Adirondacks, and Troop E, based in Canandaigua, recently announced the state police have created an emergency plan filled with lessons learned from the 2017 solar eclipse  a time when some regions experienced a 100% population increase for the event, troopers said.

Although the weather will impact how many tourists end up picking New York as their eclipse destination, estimates are startling:

Erie County officials are preparing for one million tourists to flock to the Buffalo area, the Buffalo Museum of Science said. Up to 500,000 people are expected to travel to the Rochester area, according to the Democrat & Chronicle. And officials estimate about 170,000 visitors will head to the Adirondack Park, an Adirondack Mountain Club official told NPR.

Northside residents of Syracuse view the solar eclipse with protective glasses, from the front lawn of White Branch Library on Butternut St., August 21, 2017. Michael Greenlar | mgreenlar@syracuse.comSYR

Along with headache-inducing traffic jams, the troops also detailed the problems the state police fear both regions could face during the solar spectacle.

Both troops cautioned that gas stations may not be able to handle the flood of motorists. In the Rochester area and the Adirondacks, troopers are concerned gridlocked traffic could leave motorists stranded and make it hard for responders to quickly get to emergencies.

In the Adirondacks and North Country, troopers are urging eclipse watchers and residents to prepare for it to take as long as 4 to 12 hours to get out of the region.

Fearful that the rush of tourists will clog traffic and drain supplies, Tupper Lake Supervisor Rick Datolla told the Adirondacks Explorer the town planned to put an ad in the local newspaper to warn residents to fill up their tanks and stock up on food.

Ive got to be honest with you: Im scared as hell, Datolla told the newspaper.

The state has been prepping for the eclipse for 17 months, Gov. Kathy Hochul said Monday, and has learned from the past.

We saw from the last experience many years ago that there were traffic jams and people running out of gas, Were not going to let that happen in New York because were New Yorkers and well be prepared.

The governor said she has directed the state police, the state Department of Transporation and the Thruway Authority to get ready for a high volume of travelers. To help traffic flow smoothly, construction and temporary lane closures will be paused.

The Thruway Authority wrote a list of dos and donts for traveling during the eclipse to help New Yorkers and visitors prepare for the traffic the event will inevitably bring.

Here are the Thruway Authoritys best tips for eclipse trekkers:
Syracuse, N.Y. -- The Onondaga County Child Protective caseworker and supervisor who handled Ashton DeGonzaques case before he died of a suspected drug overdose resigned today, according to Justin Sayles, a spokesman for Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon.

The county concluded an internal investigation of the caseworker and supervisors handling of Ashtons case and determined that their firings were warranted, Sayles said. The county began the process, determined by the workers union contract, days after Ashtons death.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Low-income city residents facing housing challenges will have access to free legal representation later this year through a new Syracuse University law clinic.

The SU College of Law will open a housing clinic in the fall to serve low-income renters through eviction proceedings, neglected health and safety conditions in their residences and other issues requiring legal assistance.
On March 22, a 33-year-old New York City man went for a hike up Mount Marcy, the states highest peak, just as a snowstorm blew into the Adirondack high peaks region. The mans mother reported him overdue at 9:45 p.m.

A New York State Department of Environmental Conservation forest ranger found the mans car in the Adirondak Loj parking lot while other rangers retraced the mans itinerary up and over Mt. Marcy. After thoroughly searching the surrounding trails and campsites, rangers could find no trace of the missing man.

Concerned that snow might soon hide the hikers footprints, 15 additional rangers fanned out to find him early in the morning, performing a grid search on Mount Marcys summit cone. One search crew spied a set of boot tracks near the Feldspar lean-to and followed the tracks off trail on the northwest face of the mountain.

At 10:10 a.m., rangers found the man at 4,000 feet in elevation, clothes frozen to his body. Rangers used a patient care kit to change the hikers wet clothing, feed him, and provide warm liquids before walking him to the trailhead where they were met by EMS. The man was taken to a hospital and treated for hypothermia and frostbite.

Rangers hoisted an injured 73-year-old hiker off the summit of Catamount Mountain on March 14.NYSDEC

The following reports are excerpted from DEC:

On the afternoon of March 14, a 73-year-old hiker hurt her ankle on the summit of Catamount Mountain. Due to the severity of the injury and the location, a helicopter inserted rangers into the area. They assessed and packaged the hiker for a hoist rescue and she was flown to a hospital.

While making a fort on March 22, a group of 11 teens in the town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, cut down a bunch of small trees in Rocky Point State Pine Barrens Preserve. Someone complained, and rangers removed the partially-built fort while educating the teens that cutting trees on state land is illegal.

A 57-year-old from Maspeth, New Jersey, left his home on the night of March 10, leaving a note saying he was going to get a part for their furnace, but he didnt return. On March 12 at 1 a.m., the mans family pinged his phone to Crawford Road in Narrowsburg, NY. After police found the mans car on the Tusten Mountain Trail, rangers joined the search. Crews found the mans dead body in the woods later that evening and used a steep rope system to carry the body up a slope, where it was turned over to the coroner.

Rangers recently conducted prescribed fires to burn more than 77 acres in the Otis Pike Pine Barrens State Forest, Peconic River Headwaters Natural Resource Management Area, and Lafayetteville Multiple Use Area.NYSDEC

Rangers and DEC staff last week conducted prescribed fires to burn more than 77 acres in the Otis Pike Pine Barrens State Forest, Peconic River Headwaters Natural Resource Management Area, and Lafayetteville Multiple Use Area. Controlled burns help make the forest more resilient to the invasive southern pine beetle and help reduce fuel loads to better prevent wildfires.

A 38-year-old man went missing on March 15 while riding his ATV near his residence in Chenango County. Rangers joined local police in a search of area ATV trails and found the man deceased from an apparent ATV accident, less than half a mile from his residence.

A 57-year-old hiker went missing on March 16 after she failed to return from a hike on Grace Peak, in the central Adirondacks. The hikers daughter hadnt heard from her for nearly 3.5 hours, though rangers found the hikers vehicle at the Round Pond trailhead. Shortly after midnight on March 17, two rangers hiked to the womans last known location and found her along the north fork of the Boquet River. They helped her cross the stream and back to the trailhead.



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30 rangers carry 2 injured hikers down 18 miles of icy Adirondack slopes in the dark - newyorkupstate.com

ADK snowmobiler severely injured after hitting ice crack, flying 73 feet through the air - newyorkupstate.com

Man thrown from snowmobile in crash in Madison County airlifted to Syracuse hospital - newyorkupstate.com

Baldwinsville man rescued after falling through thin ice in Three Rivers marsh - newyorkupstate.com

Rangers track down trio of missing teens in snowy Adirondack wilderness - newyorkupstate.com

Steve Featherstone covers the outdoors for The Post Standard, syracuse.com and NYUP.com. Contact him at sfeatherstone@syracuse.com or on Twitter @featheroutdoors. You can also follow along with all of our outdoors content at newyorkupstate.com/outdoors/ or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/upstatenyoutdoors.
By Brian Niemietz | New York Daily News

More than $1 billion owed to U.S. taxpayers is about to disappear unless the 940,000 people owed money by the Internal Revenue Service claim their 2020 refunds by May 17  including a large number of New Yorkers.

Theres money remaining on the table for hundreds of thousands of people who havent filed 2020 tax returns, IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said in a statement. We want taxpayers to claim these refunds, but time is running out for people who may have overlooked or forgotten about these refunds.

Under ordinary circumstances, taxpayers have three years to collect refunds before the money theyre owed becomes the property of the U.S. Treasury. But due to delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the window for 2020 returns was extended.

The IRS estimates more than 51,000 New Yorkers are owed money yet to be collected. That comes out to nearly $61 million.

Only three other states  Texas, California and Florida  have more citizens in danger of contributing to the federal government in a way they may not have intended.

The average uncollected payouts still due to 2020 taxpayers is $932, according to the IRS. In New York, the average uncollected refund tops $1,000.

According to Werfel, 2020 presented extremely unusual situations for many people who may have forgotten theyre owed a refund. Tax filers unsure of their 2020 status can go to irs.gov and for an online transcript of their records.

Uncollected monies waiting to be claimed arent just from wage deductions. Some workers with lower incomes could be eligible for an Earned Income Tax Credit.

But the IRS notes some people expecting a 2020 refund wont see one if they failed to filed tax returns in 2021 and 2022.

2024 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com.
Caroline Petrow-Cohen, Los Angeles Times (TNS)

A California man who was reportedly seen chewing and biting a severed human leg in Kern County has been arrested for allegedly taking the human remains from the site of a fatal train collision.

Construction workers spotted the man while laying concrete near an Amtrak station in Wasco.

He was waving a persons leg ... He was biting it and he was hitting it against the wall, Jose Ibarra, a worker who witnessed the scene, said in a video posted on CNN.

The Kern County Sheriffs Office arrested 27-year-old Rosendo Tellez on Friday for the removal of human remains from other than a cemetery, arrest records show. He was also booked for possession of controlled substance paraphernalia and felony violation of probation.

The Kern County Fire Department told KTLA that emergency crews had responded to a train crash near 7th and G streets in Wasco on Friday morning, where an unidentified person was pronounced dead.

Deputies arrested Tellez near Seventh and F streets around 8:30 a.m., according to arrest records. He is being held at the Lerdo Pre-Trial Facility.

___

2024 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Three Colorado ski resorts have now surpassed 300 inches of snow for winter 2023-24. Steamboat has notched 355 inches, Winter Park 323 inches and joining them in the No. 3 spot is Wolf Creek with 306 inches.

The snow will continue for Colorado as well, with two storms over the next seven or eight days bringing decent accumulations to all mountain regions.

Recap:

Snow fell on Tuesday night in all mountain regions, with accumulations between 0-2 inches in the western mountain, 2-7 inches in the central mountains and 1-3 in the southern, and 1-7 in the northern mountains.

Ski areas and resorts around the state had cooler temperatures on Tuesday too, like at Breckenridge where a high of 29 degrees at the Peak 8 gondola base was recorded, after starting the morning out in the low single digits.

Forecast:

On Wednesday, snow will taper off in the morning before skies slowly clear out from west to east by sunset and into the evening.

On Thursday, the forecast still is looking like a transition day as Colorado will be between storms, but temperatures will remain more winter-like, with high temperatures staying in the low 30s.

By Thursday night, however, storm energy moves into Colorado 6-9 hours earlier, according to the ECMWF high resolution model from Tuesday night.

Snow accumulations should mostly be in the western, northwestern and central mountains and range between 2-6 inches in the western and central mountains and 4-8 in the northwestern mountains for Friday's first chairs.

Long Range:

On Friday, snow continues as waves of energy from a low pressure system off the Oregon coast continues to spin moisture eastward across Nevada and Utah.

Saturday's first chairs accumulations should be pretty good in the western, northwestern and central mountains with between an additional 6-12 inches, and 4-8 inches for the southern and northern mountains.

On Sunday, the low pressure system will be west of Los Angeles, California, according to the EMCWF synoptic composite, still spinning moisture into the Four Corners region and producing snow Sunday night through Monday night.

Additional snow accumulations between 3-6 inches in the northern and central mountains and 2-4 inches in the southern mountains is forecast.

On Monday, the low pressure system works its way into the Arizona desert and continue pushing moisture into Colorado on southwest flows, with accumulations between 2-6 inches across all mountain regions.

On Tuesday, lingering snow showers could drop another 1-3 inches, but will end in the afternoon.

On Wednesday and Thursday, Colorado is forecast to be dry and sunny with warming temperatures ahead of a storm system arriving from the west on Friday.

This storm's track has slid a touch farther south after another model run and looks like a good snow event for the western, central and southern mountains.

Snowpack around Colorado has remained around 106% for the better part of a week and should continue holding between 103% to 106% heading into April. April 7 is the median peak day for snowpack, with Colorado's snow water equivalent at 15.6 inches as of March 27, which is 0.2 inches above the 15.4-inch median average level.

Today's 24 hour snow totals from Colorado resorts:

Arapahoe Basin - 1"

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Aspen Mountain - 5"

Aspen Highlands - 7"

Beaver Creek - 5"

Breckenridge - 0"

Buttermilk - 2"

Cooper - 3"

Copper Mountain - 2"

Crested Butte - 7"

Echo Mountain - 0"

Eldora Mountain - 1"

Granby Ranch - 0"

Hesperus - Closed for season

Howelsen Hill - Closed for season

Kendall Mountain - Closed for season

Keystone - 1"

Loveland - 2"

Monarch - 4"

Powderhorn - 0"

Purgatory - 0"

Silverton - 4"

Snowmass - 6"

Steamboat - 6"

Sunlight - 2"

Telluride - 4"

Vail - 7"

Winter Park - 2"

Wolf Creek - 3"
The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime.
Omkar Team-BHP Support

Join Date: Apr 2016 Location: Mumbai Posts: 1,770 Thanked: 21,301 Times

Another incident of car vandalism by autorickshaw drivers in Bangalore



Quote: This is regarding the article you posted on 6th March 2024 which was then also covered by some news channels. The same incident happened with us and the police have been of no help. Please find below the exact recount of what went down with us.



The incident took place between 12.30 and 1.30 am on the 23rd of March 2024 morning. My friend and I took a DriveU on our way home from the Social JP Nagar launch. We were on our way home to HSR and the driver overtook an Auto or might have cut him off by mistake, don't clearly remember. But we can 100% ensure that we didn't touch the auto nor did we pick any fight with them or show aggression. But from near Vega City Mall, Outer Ring Road signal, crossing Silk Board, over the HSR flyover, till 27th Main crossing, they chased us.



Our driver, extremely scared, tried to outrun them, but they cornered us at the HSR 27th Main junction and hit our car from the right side to block us. They threw a beer bottle at us, which hit the rear left passenger side.



3 guys came out of the Auto to confront us. One guy picked up the stone to probably break the co-driver's side window but hit the chassis frame. Our driver had the sense to back up and immediately take a right to the HSR police station.



We lodged an NCR (Non-Cognizable Report) with the HSR police station at 2 AM. There are 3 CCTV cameras at the junction, which, according to the police, were non-functional when we went back to follow up on the process. They didn't take us seriously and were extremely lackadaisical in their approach.



We couldn't record the auto-rickshaw number plates because - A. They were chasing us

B. There wasn't too much light

C. We just wanted to escape the situation It's not about the damage to the car. But it's about the fact that there was an intent to harm us. There was clear obsessive aggression from them to chase us all the way from BTM Layout.



Two incidents have happened in one month! We want the lawmakers to take this seriously because tomorrow someone might genuinely get grievously injured or worse. Sadly, we didn't have a dash cam so we couldn't record anything.



On our own, we are trying to find private cameras on our route which might help us in tracking these guys and also going to file an RTI as to what cameras were there on the road during this incident and how can the HSR Police Station tell us the following -

1. The camera feed was not working (even though there are 3 cameras there) and

2. Go to Bellandur police station as this doesn't come under our jurisdiction. We feel so helpless with our system and police when they don't take us seriously despite showing them your above article stating that this incident has happened before.



We are now scared to use any auto because you never know which one of them may turn out to be one of these thugs.















https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mq_ifHidyHw Thanks to the Team-BHP fan (She prefers to remain anonymous) who sent these videos and images in. Heartfelt gratitude for sharing them with other enthusiasts via this Team-BHP share page
Now Corporation sees its rivals selling off tower assets to independent tower companies as an opportunity for its enterprise broadband provider unit Now Telecom to expand its coverage through leasing deals, and eventually launch its consumer mobile business in two years.

This was the strategy outlined by Now Corporation Chairman Mel Velarde (pictured) who spoke to Developing Telecoms last month at Mobile World Congress Barcelona.

He hailed the current administration for breaking down key barriers to enable operators outside of the duopoly of Smart (PLDT) and Globe Telecom, to be more competitive.

Velarde explained operators have to go through a lot of red tape by gaining permission from national and local government agencies before enacting strategies. But the Ferdinand Marcos Junior administration is apparently working to streamline this regulatory process.

The direction that regulation is heading will break this barrier, what we heard is there will be a one stop shop for infrastructure deployment. There will be less hurdles to jump over as local and national governments align on vital issues such as the environmental impact of rollouts. I think Now Telecom will benefit the most from that, said Velarde.

Another key regulatory barrier destroyer that has been heavily dominating the Philippines telecoms space is the enablement of Philippines-based telcos to sell off their passive infrastructure.

Velarde said Globe and Smarts massive sale of towers helps players three and four to lease towers and expand their coverage. The chairman confirmed Now is in talks with independent tower companies such as SBA Communications, Frontier Tower Associates, and Unity Digital Infrastructure.

The tower buyers are independent tower companies for the most part, and they have leaseback arrangements with Globe and Smart. But they're not prevented from getting more leases. Of course, they're retrofitting the tower to accommodate more tenants, so the likes of SBA, American Tower, Frontier and Unity are available for telecom companies like ourselves, said Velarde.

The chairman said Now Telecom will be signing new lease deals with tower companies in the near future.

We will be signing soon because we've identified certain areas and theyre [tower companies] in these strategic areas. It makes more sense to lease than to put up our own towers because it's incredibly expensive to deploy, said Velarde.

The wider strategy in the immediate term from this boost in coverage is to bolster Now Telecoms main business of providing broadband and fixed wireless access (FWA) to enterprises in the Philippines. A play on mobile will come in the next two years, revealed Velarde.

Once the base stations for mobility come in, then we'll do mobile in a couple of years. It's going to be in a couple of years because you need a huge footprint - it's not like fixed wireless where we put one access point and deliver connectivity to anyone within three kilometres, said Velarde

But with mobility you need to be present on a wider scale plus the number one precursor for that is fibre optic cables that connect the base stations, theres no 5G without fibre.

Open RAN plan

During Mobile World Congress Barcelona, Now Telecom signed an MoU with Japan-based Rakuten Symphony to establish a collaboration framework to deploy and test 5G open RAN in the Philippines.

Under the agreement, the companies will develop disaggregated networks and open interfaces in the South-East Asian country.

Velarde revealed: Now Telecom will leverage Rakutens Open RAN architecture. And we've both been informed by the Japanese government they also want to fund deployment in the Philippines.

Open RAN enables another key focus for Now Telecom, and that is to maintain network security - a key selling point for clients in vital sectors such as energy and shipping.

Our goal really is to make sure that enterprises that fall under one of the 16 critical infrastructure sectors, use trusted equipment given the fact that our airports, mine, seaports and power plants are at risk of cyber attacks. The next two years allow us to continue our enterprise game plan, lay down the fibre and the base station in time for consumer mobility, said Velarde.

Duopoly - Globe and Smart

On Now Telecoms rivals in the Philippines telecoms market, Velarde claims they are now pulling back on deploying more base stations, and are not building and making their networks better.

Data consumption is going up but capex was cut [by rivals]. This is the paradox of it all, and why is there a paradox? Because they control regulations, they can sit and enjoy [profits].

That paradox would disappear in a competitive market like India. What's happening in the Philippines is that you have two telcos that are sitting there and enjoying the market with the profits that they can get, and milking it with the same networks they already built," argued Velarde.
In brief: Microsoft's recent announcements have sparked concern over the company's position in the console market. It's no secret that Sony and Nintendo are outselling Microsoft, but at this year's Game Developers Conference, third-party publishers began questioning their support of Xbox. Meanwhile, Xbox boss Phil Spencer voiced unease about the general state of the console industry while discussing his views on the handheld market.

Multiple developers at GDC 2024 told Chris Dring from Gamesindustry.biz that they are beginning to reconsider supporting Xbox. The comments, together with prior reports, paint a worsening picture of Microsoft's console strategy.

On a recent episode of the GI Microcast, Dring mentioned that one large publisher informed him that Xbox's performance in Europe is "flatlining." In February, Dring reported that multiple European retailers had stopped stocking physical Xbox games, raising concerns about the platform's health.

Returning from GDC, he mentioned that at least one publisher complained about the effort required to develop different versions of each game for Xbox Series S and X, describing the PC and PlayStation 5 as their primary market. Furthermore, since Microsoft confirmed plans to bring a few Xbox exclusives to other consoles, publishers have begun to believe that all of them will eventually follow suit.

Dring expressed concern about Microsoft's future as a console manufacturer, noting a general sense of pessimism from GDC attendees regarding Xbox. Speaking with Polygon at the event, Xbox head Phil Spencer explained that Microsoft's increasingly platform-agnostic strategy is a response to rising costs and stagnant industry growth, creating a challenging environment for exclusives.

He hopes that moving away from the traditional idea of exclusive console games can make Xbox stronger in the long term. According to Spencer, Microsoft's research on Gen Z indicates that today's young people don't expect any software to be exclusive to one device and that going multi-platform can help old titles gain new audiences in a market that hasn't seen significant growth for two years.

While the company hasn't revealed official plans regarding the handheld market, Spencer had much to say about it, suggesting its potential for expanding Xbox. He envisions a version of the PC Xbox app with an interface suitable for a device like the Asus ROG Ally. However, if Microsoft were to offer consumers something for that form factor, the Xbox boss would want users to be able to take all of their games with them, regardless of the platform they chose, in line with the company's multi-platform strategy.
In brief: It's been around a year and a half since Elon Musk took full control of his favorite social media site, Twitter. The billionaire has made a ton of changes during this time, including changing the platform's name to X. How has that impacted users in the United States? According to a new report, the number of daily users in the country has fallen by around a fifth during Musk's time in charge.

According to data from market intelligence firm Sensor Tower (via NBC News), X's US user base has been declining every month since Musk's first full month in charge. The 27 million daily active users it had in February marked a 27% decline compared to November 2022. It's also down 18% from the same period a year earlier.

Sensor Tower adds that X's global user numbers have also fallen, though not as much  by 15% to 174 million. Its worldwide user figures have been flat or declined every month during Musk's reign except for one.

Musk might take solace in the fact that while X has seen the largest decline among the big social media apps, all its rivals' US user numbers are down compared to November 2022. TikTok saw the second-largest fall, down 9.5%, followed by Instagram (down 4.4%), Snapchat (down 1.7%), and Facebook (down 0.6%). Unlike X, all the apps saw their global user numbers grow during the same period.

X has refuted Sensor Tower's claim. The company said 250 million people use the platform every day, with 550 million visitors each month. X added that both the daily average time spent on the platform and daily active user minutes are up year on year. Musk responded with a post on X pointing to the decline in "legacy media" users. On Sunday, he asked X users to send links from the platform to friends who are "still being misled by the legacy media."

On the other hand, legacy media did actually decline by 20% last year https://t.co/EkVqnOwuA5  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 26, 2024

Back in January, mutual fund firm Fidelity, one of the financial backers behind Musk's acquisition of X, said it believed the company was worth 71.5% less than the $44 billion it was worth at the time of Musk's purchase. Fidelity now values the firm at just over $12.5 billion.
What just happened? Australian startup Canva has acquired the British creative software company Affinity (formerly Serif) in a deal worth around $380 million. Canva expects that Affinity's photo editing, design, and publishing tools will help it compete with Adobe's Creative Cloud suite, which many consider the gold industry standard.

Canva confirmed the acquisition this week, saying that adding the Affinity suite to its portfolio will help empower companies, organizations, and smaller teams "to achieve their (creative) goals." In a separate announcement, Affinity CEO Ashley Hewson said he is excited and looking forward to starting a "momentous new chapter" in the company's journey. Hewson added that Canva's massive user base will help the company reach more customers than it could have alone.

Affinity is one of several companies Canva has bought out recently. In the last few years, it has acquired online design and photo-related services, including the Austrian visual AI platform Kaleido.ai and stock photo repositories Pexels and Pixabay.

Canva is known for its cloud-based design service, with over 175 million users globally. Affinity's suite of professional design software, available on Windows, Mac, and iPad, has more than three million users globally, making it one of the biggest challengers to Adobe's dominance in the sector.

Affinity offers several creative apps, including photo editing programs and complex graphic and vector design solutions  usually offered at a fraction of Adobe's app prices.

The deal is good news for Canva users since the company plans to eventually add Affinity's creative tools to its online photo editing service. While the company's web app typically targets beginners, co-founder Cliff Obrecht says that acquisition should attract users with more advanced photo editing skills, including professional designers.

Constellation Research analyst Ray Wang told Bloomberg he believes Affinity's software suite will help Canva become more competitive with Adobe. Canva's immediate target is Adobe Express, an all-in-one design, photo, and video tool that makes content creation easy, even for people without graphic design skills. Wang also thinks that the companies' cultures are well aligned, meaning the 90 Affinity employees that will join Canva following the acquisition should not have any problems transitioning.
A hot potato: Qualcomm recently said its upcoming Arm SoC would provide a good gaming experience for low-power laptops. The corporation has already tested the chip with several high-profile games, including Baldur's Gate 3, the latest award-winning CRPG from Larian.

Baldur's Gate 3, the D&D role-playing game that came to dominate this year's BAFTA Games Awards and other gaming-related events, can run at "playable" frame rates on laptops equipped with the Snapdragon X Elite chip. Qualcomm is bringing its latest Arm SoC to Windows laptops this summer and is confident enough to propose the tech as a proper gaming solution to the elitism-inclined PC user base.

The US fabless chip manufacturer attended the latest Game Developers Conference to show what the Snapdragon X Elite can do for gaming. Qualcomm claimed the Arm chip is faster than Apple's M3 platform and provides developers with new approaches to bringing their games to the platform.

Studios can easily port titles designed to run on Windows x86 PCs to the Snapdragon X Elite's native ARM64 ISA for the best performance and power usage levels. Alternatively, developers can create "hybrid" ARM64EC applications for near-native performance. In the worst-case scenario, a game could run on the Arm SoC through x64 emulation and still work fine.

Here's a demo of Baulders Gate 3 running at 1080p hovering around 30FPS, which is perfectly playable! https://t.co/ZieiHtzRlN pic.twitter.com/VvFKbUVK5J  Devin Arthur (@Lexcyn) March 25, 2024

Qualcomm will offer native drivers for its Adreno GPU to run DirectX 11, DX12, Vulkan, and OpenCL games. The company will even support older DirectX 9 and OpenGL 4.6 titles through the D3D9On12 mapping layer. Qualcomm claims that games are now heavily bottlenecked by the GPU anyway, so the CPU performance hit experienced with the transition from x64 to ARM64 should not be concerning.

The corporation tested its Snapdragon X Elite laptop prototypes with several modern games, including Control, Redout II, and Baldur's Gate 3. Larian's RPG was recently shown running on one of those prototypes by "Snapdragon insider" Devin Arthur, who saw a demo of Baldur's Gate 3 running at 1080p and 30fps, which, in his opinion, is a "perfectly playable" frame rate.

Most passionate PC gamers spend significant amounts on the latest hardware upgrades to keep their frame rates improving. The 30fps debate is one of the most trite arguments plaguing the PC gaming community. Expecting this level of performance for Baldur's Gate 3 on a brand new Arm "PC" will likely add even more fuel to the argument.
A team of researchers from around the world recently investigated the genetic makeup of the great composer Ludwig van Beethoven, hoping to shed insight into the genetic basis of musical ability.

The study, conducted by scientists from the Max Planck Institutes for Empirical Aesthetics (MPIEA) and Psycholinguistics (MPI-PL), analyzed Beethoven's DNA to explore his predisposition for musical abilities (via Medical Xpress).

Understanding Beethoven's Musical Ability Through DNA Analysis

Utilizing modern DNA sequencing techniques, the researchers focused on a specific trait related to musical ability: beat synchronization. This trait, closely linked to musicality, was assessed through a genome-wide association study (GWAS) involving the ability to clap in time with a musical beat.

Results of the study, recently published in the journal Current Biology, revealed intriguing insights into Beethoven's genetic predisposition for musical abilities. Despite Beethoven's celebrated status as one of the greatest composers in history, his genetic profile showed an unremarkable polygenic score for general musicality when compared to modern population samples.

Senior co-author Simon Fisher of the MPI-PL emphasized the significance of these findings, highlighting the limitations of genetic testing in predicting individual talents. Fisher stressed that Beethoven's low polygenic score for beat synchronization does not diminish his musical genius, cautioning against overreliance on genetic tests for determining individual abilities.

"It shows, for example, that you should be skeptical if someone claims they can use a genetic test to reliably determine whether your child will be musically gifted-or especially talented in some other area of behavior," Fisher explains.

Read Also: DNA Art Creates 16 Million Colors to Reproduce 24-Bit Digital Images

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BONN, GERMANY - JANUARY 21: A mural graffiti shows German pianist and composer Ludwig van Beethoven on the exit of a pedestrian tunnel on January 21, 2020 in Bonn, Germany. Germany is celebrating Ludwig van Beethoven's 250th anniversary. The German composer will be honored with hundreds of events in his birth city of Bonn.

The Complexity of Genetic Influences

The research showed that it is really difficult to figure out genetic influences on complex traits like musical ability. Factors such as the limited capture of genetic effects by polygenic scores, the influence of cultural and environmental factors, and the multifaceted nature of musicality were taken into account in interpreting the results.

While previous studies have found an average heritability of 42% for musicality, the researchers emphasized the probabilistic nature of genetic influences on traits. They cautioned against drawing definitive conclusions about Beethoven's musical abilities based solely on genetic data, highlighting the need to consider multiple factors in understanding human traits.

Despite the challenges, polygenic scores remain valuable for group-level analyses and gaining insights into genetic risks and their interaction with the environment over a lifetime. The study serves as a reminder of the complexity of human traits and the importance of integrating genetics, environment, and culture in understanding them.

The analysis of Beethoven's DNA offers intriguing glimpses into the genetic basis of musical talent. While the study provides valuable insights, it also highlights the limitations of genetic testing in predicting individual abilities.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: AEGIS Synthetic System: AI-Enhanced DNA Unlocks Precision Protein Design

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Finnish police have reportedly confirmed that APT31, a China-linked hacking group, is the one behind a March 2021 data breach, accusations that echo previous claims by both the United Kingdom and the United States.

The Finnish police originally revealed the data breach in a March 2021 news release, which stated that the organization had initiated a criminal investigation into hacking the country's parliament's computer systems in 2020-2021.

(Photo: ANTTI HAMALAINEN/Lehtikuva/AFP via Getty Images) TOPSHOT - Finnish and Nato flags flutter at the courtyard of the Foreign Ministry in Helsinki, Finland, ahead of accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on April 4, 2023.

The suspected offenses under investigation were aggravated espionage, aggravated unauthorized access to an information system, and aggravated violation of the confidentiality of communications.

As per Finland's confirmation, the authorities have already stated that they were investigating the hacker organization APT31's involvement in the event prior to this confirmation, now adding that the investigators have identified one suspect.

This inquiry has revealed a "complex criminal infrastructure," according to National Bureau of Inquiry Detective Chief Inspector Aku Limnell.

Finland's confirmation follows a series of accusations of China-linked hackers from the US and the UK.

Read Also: Can AI Combat Cybercrime? New Study Puts This to the Test

UK's Alleged China-Backed Cyberattack

The United Kingdom and Britain recently accused China-linked hackers of being the primary culprits of two discovered cyberattacks, one in October 2022 and the other in the summer of 2021.

British Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden allegedly said that Chinese state-affiliated groups carried out two malicious cyber attacks on MPs and democratic institutions.

Dowden says the attack on the Electoral Commission, an independent agency in charge of developing standards for how the U.K. elections should be administered, was made by a state actor with ties to China.

According to reports, the attacks took place in 2021 and 2022. Reuters said the breach was made public last year, but Britain has yet to identify the offender.

The Electoral Commission identified the attack in October 2022 but did not make it public until last year. In 2023, the Commission stated that hackers obtained the names and addresses of every British voter registered to vote between 2014 and 2022.

US Sanctions Against Chinese Hackers

The US Treasury Department, on the other hand, sanctioned Wuhan Xiaoruizhi Science and Technology firm Ltd. after designating it as a front firm for the Chinese Ministry of State Security that served as a cover for several harmful cyberattacks.

The US Treasury also sanctioned two Chinese citizens, Zhao Guangzong and Ni Gaobin, who are linked with the Wuhan firm. They are suspected of launching cyberattacks to disrupt important infrastructure sectors such as defense, aerospace, and energy.

The US Department of Justice also accused Zhao, Ni, and five other hackers of conspiracy to conduct computer intrusion and wire fraud.

The government stated they were part of a 14-year cyber campaign targeting US and overseas opponents, corporations, and political leaders.

Related Article: Hackers Target Gmail, Microsoft Accounts by Bypassing 2FA Protection in Phishing Platforms

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OpenAI's Sam Altman is reportedly suggesting that artificial intelligence's energy demand can only be remedied with a breakthrough, particularly in nuclear fusion. Some experts suggest his belief is too ideal.

As per CNN, Altman has spent hundreds of millions of dollars in fusion, and in recent interviews, he has stated that the future technology, long regarded as the holy grail of renewable energy, may someday deliver the massive quantities of electricity required for next-generation AI.

"There's no way to get there without a breakthrough; we need fusion," Altman said in a January interview, coupled with increasing the use of other renewable energy sources. Then, in March, when podcaster and computer scientist Lex Fridman questioned how to solve AI's "energy puzzle," Altman again mentioned fusion.

(Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) After the controversial firing of Sam Altman from his CEO position at OpenAI, over 500 employees signed a letter to unite with Altman soon and wanted to quit working with OpenAI.

According to some experts, Altman's emphasis on a future energy breakthrough demonstrates the AI industry's unwillingness to address the issue of how it will fulfill AI's rapidly increasing energy demands in the near future.

Alex de Vries, a researcher at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, says it is consistent with a common tendency toward wishful thinking regarding climate action.

The scientist adds that it would be far more prudent to focus on what we have and what we can accomplish right now rather than wishing for something that could happen.

Read Also: AI Can Predict Optimum Solar Panel Spots, Claims Scientists

AI's Massive Energy Demand

According to Bill Vass, Amazon Web Services vice president of engineering, a new data center is added globally every three days. During the conference, Bill Gates, a Microsoft co-founder, noted that energy is the most crucial aspect in determining a data center's profitability and that artificial intelligence would require enormous power.

In addition to the energy necessary to manufacture chips and other hardware, AI requires significant computer power to "train" modelsfeeding them massive datasetsand then to utilize that training to respond to a user inquiry.

Corporations must incorporate technology into applications and internet searches, increasing computer power needs as technology advances. According to de Vries, an internet search employing AI might consume at least ten times more energy than a regular search.

AI's Energy Supply Alternatives

While Altman is looking at nuclear fusion, recent reports indicate that other AI executives are vying for fossil fuels to supply AI's massive energy needs.

Tech leaders are concerned that AI will consume more energy than clean sources can give. Wind and solar power are unreliable due to weather variations. Although nuclear reactors take years to build, they are not a viable option for enterprises that demand power right immediately.

Utilities and IT companies are discussing whether more fossil fuels are needed to fulfill demand. According to Toby Rice, CEO of EQT, a big American natural gas producer, IT businesses building data centers are interested in acquiring gas from the company.

Related Article: AI Data Centers Restricted Worldwide Due to Energy Consumption

(Photo: Tech Times)

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Eviden, a leading name in digital, cloud, big data and security, has announce the opening of its new Security Operations Centre (SOC) in Monterrey, Mexico, to enable advanced cybersecurity services to organisations across North and South America.

The Mexico centre is Evidens 17th next-generation SOC worldwide. The company also has a global team of more than 6,500 security specialists.

As the company explains, not only is there an increasing number of cyberattacks in todays business environment but these attacks are becoming more sophisticated.

Thus, Eviden says, its Security Operations Centres serve as a key differentiator to managing business risk by transforming security environments from highly siloed to holistic, advanced operations.

Evidens Mexico SOC will provide customers with its Managed Detection and Response (MDR) solutions to detect and mitigate threats, and then enable customers with informed, prescriptive responses for proactive safety.

The advanced MDR solution, powered by Evidens next-generation artificial intelligence platform AIsaac Cyber Mesh, provides threat intelligence, threat hunting, security monitoring, incident analysis, threat containment and full-service response to tackle todays emerging threats.

In 2021 Eviden launched a sovereign data version of its MDR service, ensuring that client data remains in the same geography. The classic cloud-native version of Evidens MDR service, meanwhile, is now 100% carbon neutral.

Evidens global network of SOCs leverages Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRT) to block and neutralise cyberattacks in real time across industries. Each SOC is designed to rapidly identify and limit the impact of security incidents for large organisations using 24/7/365 threat monitoring, detection and targeted responses.
The California Initiative for Technology and Democracy is reportedly looking to both learn and work together with Europe in creating the state's artificial intelligence regulation.

According to David Harris, senior policy adviser at the California Initiative for Technology and Democracy, they are attempting to learn from and collaborate with the Europeans to determine how to implement AI rules.

California, home to some of the biggest AI firms, has seen its state legislators introducing at least 30 separate measures addressing various areas of AI.

(Photo: KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images) A photo taken on February 26, 2024, shows the logo of the Artificial Intelligence chat application on a smartphone screen (L) and the letters AI on a laptop screen in Frankfurt am Main, western Germany.

Legislators in California, as they have in the past with EU regulations on private data, are turning to recent European legislation on AI, especially given the slim chance of matching national legislation coming from Washington.

California's proposed laws range from requiring AI producers to disclose what was used to train models to prohibit political commercials using computer-generated characteristics.

Gail Pellerin, a state assembly member, supports a law that she claims will effectively prohibit the distribution of false digital content developed by generative AI in the months leading up to and weeks after elections.

Read Also: UK Plans to Amp Up its AI Research, Regulation with Over 100M

California's AI Efforts

Last September 2023, California also addressed the regulation of generative artificial intelligence. California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order directing state agencies to analyze the technology's risks and uses.

State agencies were tasked with identifying the most prominent and advantageous applications of generative AI in the state and were required to provide training regimens for state workers to use officially sanctioned generative AI technologies.

Furthermore, the order directed authorities to evaluate the technology's potential negative implications, including its influence on vulnerable groups and potential dangers to the state's key energy infrastructure.

The order cleared the path for working connections with the University of California, Berkeley, and Stanford University. These collaborations enabled an in-depth study of the influence of generative AI on the California workforce.

Europe's AI Act

Now, California looks to Europe, whose EU officially passed the world's first AI regulatory act weeks ago.

After reaching a tentative political compromise in December, the EU Parliament finally approved the regulatory framework with an overwhelming majority of 523 votes. This framework is the world's first significant collection of regulations for regulating AI technology and addressing its numerous dangers and repercussions.

Previously, journalists demanded that politicians impose strict AI regulations in the media. Even tech behemoths like Google and Apple questioned what would happen when the time came. It has now become a reality in Europe.

Thierry Breton, the European Commissioner for Internal Market, praised the EU's stance as a global leader in AI legislation.

The president of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, reiterated this opinion, emphasizing the necessity of striking a balance between innovation and safeguarding basic rights.

The EU AI Act divides AI technology into danger tiers, ranging from "unacceptable" to high, medium, and low hazard. This categorization system serves as the foundation for regulating AI applications, which will include steps to ensure accountability and transparency.

Related Article: UN Adopts First AI Resolution, Champions Human Rights Amidst AI Development

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In Microsoft's ideal AI PC rollout in the future, the company requires developers and manufacturers to include a dedicated 'Copilot Key,' among the other requirements of the company.

AI PCs are known for their ramping development now, one that would effectively turn a computer to feature AI despite being offline, no longer cloud-based as opposed to what is popular now.

Delivering AI to PCs on hardware and software experiences is what companies like Intel, Microsoft, and AMD are pushing for now, localizing access for all.

Microsoft Requires Copilot Key for Future AI PCs said Intel

The Verge reported that a recent press briefing hosted by Intel revealed that among the many requirements of Microsoft to help build AI PCs, it wants a dedicated 'Copilot Key' for a direct experience with its chatbot.

Microsoft's Copilot Key is a dedicated key on the keyboard that features Copilot's logo on it, and once pressed, it would directly launch the chatbot to answer user's needs or assist them.

It would be like the default long press of the home button (for iPhone X and below devices) or power button (for iPhone X and later) that summons Siri directly.

Intel said that in this new venture, the company would provide its Core Ultra, offer access to Copilot, and a built-in Copilot Key to the devices.

Read Also: Intel, Biden Announce $8.5 Billion in Direct Funding to Advance US Chip Manufacturing

NPUs, CPUs, GPUs, and Copilot for AI PCs

The Copilot Keys would also have to be a requirement for OEMs to include them on future devices featuring AI, apart from Intel's adherence to Microsoft's requirements.

Moreover, Microsoft also wants manufacturing partners to bring a combination of hardware and software adjustments for AI PCs, centering on neural processing units (NPUs), CPUs, and GPUs to handle the load and give access to Copilot.

AI PCs: Local AI Access for Computers

Intel has long touted the idea behind AI PCs, a new experience for the latest and most advanced technology in the world, centering on massive collaborations and developments in the industry.

Last year, Microsoft partnered with Intel and ARM to deliver the first-ever "true AI integration" coming to computers, delegating the semiconductor companies to help power the tech.

Earlier this year amidst the CES 2024 event, Intel revealed the next-gen Core processors, particularly the 14th generation, claiming that these are the chips that will help bring improved AI integration to PCs. Its focus is onboarding AI to the systems, with its i9-14900HX featuring 24 cores alongside the Core Ultra processors that focus on AI PCs.

Other companies like AMD and NVIDIA are also on the verge of developing their takes on AI PCs, following a significant integration in the world.

Intel's recent revelation paints more of what Microsoft pictures as the future of AI PCs, one that would have sufficient power thanks to CPUs, NPUs, and GPUs, and also to dedicated access to Copilot right on the keyboard.

Related Article: New AI PCs to Get Next-Gen Windows Version in Mid-2024-Alleged Windows 12 Coming?

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A new analysis by the Voting Rights Lab, a nonpartisan voting rights watchdog, reveals that AI's rapid development has caused numerous states to introduce guardrails against it, all to be prepared for the upcoming AI-riddled elections.

The Voting Rights Lab stated that it was monitoring over 100 bills in 39 state legislatures that had measures aimed at regulating the potential for AI to generate election misinformation.

The legislature comes amid several high-profile incidents of "deep-fake" video technology, computer-generated avatars, and voices being utilized in political campaigns and commercials.

(Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris hold an event to highlight their administration's approach to artificial intelligence in the East Room of the White House on October 30, 2023, in Washington, DC.

According to the New York Times, several pieces of AI-related legislation stand out. For the first time this year, Wisconsin will require political marketers to declare the use of artificial intelligence-generated material or risk financial penalties.

According to a measure signed into law on Thursday by Democrat Gov. Tony Evers, political marketers would risk a $1,000 punishment for each infraction.

A similar legislation passed both chambers of the Florida legislature and is now being reviewed by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis. A spokesperson for Mr. DeSantis stated that he had yet to see the law's final text, which includes both civil and criminal sanctions.

Arizona's State Senate and House have enacted their respective versions of measures prohibiting the use of deep fakes or generated pictures. Each chamber's legislation has yet to be taken up by the other chamber. One version would criminalize deepfakes within 90 days of an election. Repeated infractions would constitute a crime.

Read Also: Google Releases AI Safeguards Ahead US, Global Elections

California's AI Law Aspirations

The California Initiative for Technology and Democracy, on the other hand, aims to learn from and collaborate with Europe in developing the state's artificial intelligence laws.

Legislators in California, as they have in the past with EU restrictions on private data, are turning to recent European AI legislation, especially given the small prospect of matching national legislation from Washington.

California's proposed legislation ranges from requiring AI makers to reveal what was used to train models to prohibit political advertisements using computer-generated traits.

Gail Pellerin, a state assembly member, favors legislation that she thinks will effectively outlaw the circulation of fake digital information created by generative AI in the months preceding and weeks after elections.

US' Upcoming AI Elections

US states' growing adoption of AI laws only proves that elections are inherently susceptible to the booming technology's development. As per the Voting Rights Lab, AI-generated political misinformation is a growing menace that is already impacting the 2024 presidential election.

Some jurisdictions have moved fast to address the potential of unscrupulous actors using synthetic media to undermine public trust in elections. Wisconsin, Arizona, and Florida serve as models for early initiatives to combat AI-generated election misinformation.

However, the voting rights watchdog cautions that nations and electoral officials will be obliged to respond to a constantly shifting danger as AI technologies advance.

The 2024 federal election will reportedly be a crucial test of how AI-generated election misinformation spreads and how successful state measures are in combating it.

Related Article: Study Finds Top AI Image Generators are Still Producing Inaccurate Election Images Despite Pledges

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Europe's longest hyperloop testing facility has opened in the Netherlands, offering a platform for research and development in the field of high-speed transportation, according to a report by AFP.

The European Hyperloop Center

Located near Veendam in the northern part of the country, the European Hyperloop Center features a 420-meter-long tunnel constructed from interconnected pipes. These pipes, approximately 2.5 meters wide, facilitate the testing of hyperloop technology.



The tunnel's design aims to minimize air resistance, achieved by removing the majority of air from within the tunnel. This enables vehicles to be propelled using magnetic systems, potentially reaching speeds of up to 1,000 kilometers per hour.



A notable feature of the center is incorporating a "lane switch," allowing for testing vehicle maneuverability at high speeds and enhancing the understanding of hyperloop dynamics.



The center's director, Sascha Lamme, envisions a future where hyperloop technology facilitates the creation of an extensive network across Europe by 2050. He emphasizes the technology's scalability, suggesting the possibility of significantly reduced travel times between major cities such as Amsterdam and Barcelona.



"We have made something that is very scalable. It can go very quickly. So it should really be possible to get into a station in Amsterdam and travel to a city like Barcelona in two hours," Lamme said in a statement with AFP.

"Just like you do with an airplane, but without all the hassle."

Read Also: Automakers in Europe Lag in Securing Key Battery Metals for EVs, with Tesla Leading in Supply Chain Race





Upcoming Vehicle Tests in the Hyperloop Center

The Dutch-based firm Hardt Hyperloop is set to commence initial vehicle tests in the coming weeks. The center will be open to companies actively engaged in hyperloop technology development.



However, Lamme acknowledges that considerable research and development remain before hyperloop technology can be deemed ready for passenger use.



Although hyperloop technology has attracted attention since its inception in Elon Musk's 2013 proposal, practical implementation has faced numerous challenges. Despite ongoing research and testing, full-scale passenger operations are not anticipated until 2030 the earliest.



Supporters of hyperloop technology emphasize its potential environmental benefits, including reduced energy consumption and minimal noise pollution. However, critics raise concerns regarding the feasibility and passenger experience of traveling at high speeds through narrow tunnels.



Marinus Van der Meijs, technology and engineering director at Hardt Hyperloop, highlights the Hyperloop system's efficiency and minimal infrastructure footprint. Nonetheless, questions persist regarding the comfort and safety of passengers during high-speed travel.



"The energy consumption of the hyperloop as a transportation mode is much lower (than others)," Marinus Van der Meijs said in a statement to AFP. "It also requires less space to operate because we have these tubes that can easily be placed underground or elevated. So we have a lower infrastructure footprint"

Related Article: Zayo Boosts Infrastructure Leadership in Europe with Pivotal Fiber Expansion Connecting Global Internet Hubs of Paris and Marseille

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Researchers at the University of Waterloo have adopted radar technology to monitor the health status of drivers, transforming ordinary vehicles into potential mobile medical facilities. This new tech was inspired by Star Trek's medical bay.

Leveraging Radar Tech to Monitor the Health of Drivers

Led by Dr. George Shaker, an adjunct professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the research team aims to leverage radar technology alongside advancing vehicle systems to facilitate health monitoring without the need for wearables.



The radar device, compact in size and comparable to a USB thumb drive, is seamlessly integrated into the vehicle cabin. It emits signals to detect human vibrations, which are then analyzed by an embedded AI system.



This system processes the data to construct a medical profile of the driver, identifying any potential health issues. Following the driver's journey, the system sends the compiled report directly to their mobile phone for review.



"This radar technology is not new. Our first demos using radars for in-cabin sensing were developed back in 2017 for infotainment touchless control and to alert people to children and pets left alone in parked vehicles. This application, using the technology to monitor vehicle occupants' health, is a step towards achieving our vision of cars as medical hubs of the future," Shaker said in a statement.



The primary focus of the research was to refine the technology to accurately identify changes in breathing patterns and heart rhythms indicative of cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.

Read Also: US Navy's Radar-Equipped Drones Prevent Hypersonic Missiles 10x the Speed Of Sound But Can't Detect Slower Rockets?





Using AI to Interpret Medical Implications

Dr. Shaker and his team addressed the challenge by enhancing data extraction methods and training the AI system to interpret medical implications from the gathered data.



Moreover, privacy and security concerns were paramount, with data transmission occurring exclusively to the individual's cellphone without any storage on cloud servers.



The efficacy of the system was validated through rigorous testing, including the use of synthetic data mimicking respiratory conditions and examinations on individuals with preexisting heart conditions.



The results demonstrated the system's ability to accurately detect and identify various health issues, laying the groundwork for further development.



Looking ahead, the research team aims to broaden the capabilities of radar technology to encompass monitoring the health and well-being of all vehicle occupants.



This expansion includes diagnostic functionalities and the generation of comprehensive medical reports highlighting any detected issues, along with emergency communication features in the event of accidents.



The integration of radar technology for health monitoring purposes represents a notable advancement in the realm of vehicle-based medical assistance. However, ongoing research and refinement are essential to maximize its potential and ensure its practicality in real-world scenarios.



The research team's study, "Multibin Breathing Pattern Estimation by Radar Fusion for Enhanced Driver Monitoring," was recently published in IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement.

Related Article: Tesla Launches Iteration of Tesla Visiono on Modely 3,Y But There's a Caveat---CEO Elon Musk Says it's Headed to Level 5 Autonomy

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Engineers at the INRS Energie Materiaux Telecommunications Research Centre in Canada have unveiled the world's fastest camera, capable of shooting at an astounding rate of 156.3 trillion frames per second (fps).

Engineers Unveil the World's Fastest Camera

While slow-motion features on smartphones typically operate at a few hundred fps, professional cinematic cameras may reach a few thousand fps for smoother footage. However, to delve into events at the nanoscale, one must slow down considerably, to billions or even trillions of frames per second.



The newly developed camera boasts the ability to capture events occurring within femtoseconds, which are quadrillionths of a second.



The breakthrough was led by Jinyang Liang, a Professor at INRS, and his research team. Their work showcases the development of an ultrafast camera system capable of capturing up to 156.3 trillion frames per second with remarkable precision.



This achievement enables 2D optical imaging of ultrafast demagnetization in a single shot, a feat previously unattainable.

All About the SCARF

The system, dubbed SCARF (swept-coded aperture real-time femtophotography), represents a significant advancement in the field of ultrafast imaging.



It allows for the observation of transient absorption in semiconductors and ultrafast demagnetization of metal alloys, opening doors for exploration in physics, biology, chemistry, materials science, and engineering, according to the research team.



The researchers claim that professor Liang's expertise in ultrafast imaging has garnered global recognition. His previous work in 2018 laid the foundation for SCARF, addressing limitations in existing ultrafast camera systems.



While past approaches involved sequentially capturing frames one by one, this method posed challenges in observing non-repeatable or ultrafast phenomena.



Professor Jinyang identifies limitations in current observation methods, citing examples such as femtosecond laser ablation, shock-wave interaction with living cells, and optical chaos.



Addressing these challenges, he developed the T-CUP system, capable of capturing ten trillion frames per second, representing a significant advancement in real-time imaging. Nonetheless, challenges in the field remain.



"Many systems based on compressed ultrafast photography have to cope with degraded data quality and have to trade the sequence depth of the field of view. These limitations are attributable to the operating principle, which requires simultaneously shearing the scene and the coded aperture," Miguel Marquez, postdoctoral fellow and co-first author of the study, said in a press release statement.



SCARF represents a departure from these limitations. Unlike previous systems, it employs an imaging modality that allows for ultrafast sweeping of a static coded aperture without shearing the ultrafast phenomenon.



This advancement enables full-sequence encoding rates of up to 156.3 THz to individual pixels on a camera, providing unparalleled insights into unique phenomena.

Read Also: Fujifilm XS20: A Blend of Legacy and Innovation in 2023's Top Commercial Cameras





Beyond Scientific Exploration

The implications of SCARF extend beyond scientific exploration. The technology holds promise for economic spin-offs, with companies like Axis Photonique and Few-Cycle collaborating with Professor Liang's team to commercialize their patent-pending discovery.



This partnership not only furthers Quebec's position as a leader in photonics but also presents opportunities for advancements in pharmaceuticals and medical treatments, according to the researchers.

The findings of the team were published in the journal Nature Communications.

Related Article: Sony ZV-E1 Vlogging Camera Officially Announced: First to Feature Full-Frame Sensor

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Moderna, known for its COVID-19 vaccine, is poised to expand its product further with its latest developments.

The biotech giant recently unveiled promising clinical trial results for three novel vaccines targeting different virusesa game-changer in the making beyond its flagship Covid jab.

Diversifying Moderna's Vaccine Portfolio

Amid dwindling demand for COVID-19 shots worldwide, Moderna aims to diversify its product offerings and capture new markets.

When COVID-19 hit the world, everyone was in a panic until the vaccines arrived. This time, the company is intensifying its effort to lessen the worry of people who are concerned with the virus.

The company's stock, closely tied to its Covid vaccine, suffered a notable decline last year, underlining the urgency for broader vaccine solutions.

At the same time, Moderna will present the clinical trial data it collected on the three vaccines at the fifth annual Vaccines Day event in Boston.

Moderna's strategic pivot encompasses a diverse range of viruses, including norovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and varicella-zoster virus. These initiatives align with the company's long-term vision to address unmet medical needs and capitalize on lucrative market opportunities.

Related Article: Moderna, Merck's Groundbreaking Melanoma Treatment Shows Promise in Combination Therapy Study

Norovirus Vaccine: A Promising Prospect

According to CNBC, the absence of an approved norovirus vaccine presents a significant gap in preventive healthcare. Moderna's mRNA-1403 vaccine, targeting three norovirus strains, demonstrated robust immune responses and favorable safety profiles in early trials. The move to phase three trials emphasizes the immense market potential of norovirus vaccines.

According to Moderna, norovirus is the culprit behind stomach flu, which is attributed to roughly 200,000 deaths annually.

Tackling Epstein-Barr Virus: Mitigating Health Risks

Epstein-Barr virus, a common herpes virus linked to infectious mononucleosis and cancer, remains a formidable health concern. Moderna's mRNA-1189 vaccine, designed to prevent mono, exhibited promising results in phase one trials. The advancement to phase three studies signals a critical step toward addressing this pervasive health threat.

Combatting Varicella-Zoster Virus: Shielding Against Shingles

Varicella-zoster virus, responsible for chickenpox and shingles, poses significant risks, particularly among older adults. Moderna's mRNA-1468 vaccine demonstrated strong immune responses and tolerability in early to mid-stage trials.

Continued research aims to provide comprehensive protection against shingles and associated complications.

With multiple vaccines in late-stage trials and strategic partnerships to accelerate research, the company is poised for a transformative journey beyond the Covid era.

"With five vaccines in Phase 3, and three more moving toward Phase 3, we have built a very large and diverse portfolio addressing significant unmet medical needs. We are focused on execution to further build momentum across our pipeline and business, and to deliver for patients who are impacted by these infectious diseases," Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel said in a release on Wednesday, March 27.

What Lies on Moderna's Vision

As Moderna prepares to unveil its latest vaccine initiatives, the world eagerly anticipates the dawn of a new era in preventive healthcare.

Even with the evolution of the virus, Modern will continue to do what has to be done: improving the efficacy of its COVID-19 vaccine that will change the lives of billions of people around the world.

Earlier this month, a German man who received 217 COVID-19 vaccines volunteered himself to be a subject of the study.

The research focuses on the impact of excessive vaccination on the immune system. The scientists saw no side effects during the hypervaccination process. Although this could mean that the administered drugs have a decent degree of tolerability, further studies are still needed to prove that more vaccines are required.

Read Also: Star Trek-Inspired: Researchers Employ Radar Tech to Track the Health Status of Drivers

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Memes instantly become one of the most viral posts on the internet. While people always incorporate parody and humor in them, the UK watchdog is making it clear that not everyone can post promotional crypto memes on social media platforms and other sites.

There's nothing wrong in seeing meme posts that give us a good laugh for a moment, but it's important to address the overlooked danger of scams by fake financial influencers or "finfluencers."

FCA Guidelines for Financial Promotions of Crypto

In a proactive move to combat the surge in scams within Britain's financial industry, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has rolled out strict guidelines targeting financial services companies and social media influencers, particularly those dabbling in memes related to cryptocurrencies and other investments.

In a statement released on Tuesday, March 26, the FCA emphasized the imperative for all marketing endeavors, including meme-based promotions, to uphold the standards of fairness, clarity, and transparency.

Since unaware people can be easily misled by these get-rich-quick schemes in the form of promotional ads, the watchdog aims to safeguard the safety of the consumers to avoid falling victim to the hands of scammers.

"Promotions aren't just about the likes, they're about the law. We will take action against those touting financial products illegally," Lucy Castledine, director of consumer investments at the FCA, said.

Related Article: CryptoWatch: AI Tokens Surge, FTX vs. SBF, Top Coin Prices Now

Approval Mandate for 'Finfluencers'

According to CNBC, the FCA mandates that financial social media influencers, colloquially termed "finfluencers," obtain prior approval from an FCA-appointed representative before disseminating advertisements or memes concerning financial products and services.

Furthermore, the preemptive measure aims to guarantee that promotional content maintains accuracy and integrity, resonating with the FCA's mission to uphold the integrity of financial marketing practices.

Challenges in Utilizing Social Media Platforms

Acknowledging the limitations posed by platforms with character or space constraints, the FCA urges firms to exercise prudence in selecting appropriate channels for promoting complex financial products.

Whenever you scroll and see a crypto-related meme, you should check if it shows accurate information. If it's not, ditch the posts on your feed and report it to the authorities.

The Rise of Crypto Memes

Amidst the burgeoning popularity of cryptocurrencies, the FCA highlights a concerning trend wherein memes are extensively employed to promote investments, particularly within the cryptocurrency sector.

Platforms like Telegram and Reddit are breeding grounds for crypto-centric memes, fostering a culture of speculative enthusiasm that warrants regulatory scrutiny.

Combatting Misleading Promotions

The FCA's vigilance extends to online forums and chatrooms, where instances of misleading financial promotions have been identified. Users are reminded that promotional activities within these digital spaces remain subject to regulatory oversight, reinforcing the FCA's commitment to curbing deceptive marketing practices.

Tackling the Surge in Financial Scams

The regulatory crackdown on misleading financial promotions is in line with the FCA's objective of addressing the surge in financial scams exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

With more consumers resorting to online platforms for their financial transactions, the need for stringent regulatory measures to protect consumer interests has never been more pressing.

Focus on Crypto Advertising

Of particular note is the FCA's intensified scrutiny of crypto advertising, evidenced by the regulatory mandate requiring firms engaged in consumer crypto investing promotion to obtain authorization or registration.

In other news, Coindesk reports that the law enforcement agencies in the UK can now seize crypto assets in terrorism, and other crimes. It will take effect on April 26.

Read Also: Worldcoin's European Presence Shrinks Further with Portugal Ban

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Swedish researchers found that two nights of interrupted sleep may make people feel much older, stressing the importance of enough sleep on overall wellness.



Stockholm-based Karolinska Institute psychologists found that participants who slept four hours a night for two nights felt four years older, while nine-hour sleepers felt three months younger, as reported by The Guardian.



The study's primary author, psychoneuroimmunologist Leonie Balter, noted that sleep strongly affects age perception. Even short-term sleep interruptions might affect mood.



The sleep research demonstrates that feeling older may affect health habits beyond perception. Dr. Balter noticed that those who see themselves as older may eat worse, exercise less, and avoid social or new activities.



This study included two examinations with 615 participants. The first research of 429 people aged 18-70 found a link between poor sleep and feeling older. For each day of inadequate sleep, participants felt three months older.



The second analysis tested 186 18-46-year-old participants under different sleep situations. Two nights of four-hour sleep made individuals feel 4.44 years older than when they slept well.



The research also examined how chronotypes-morning or evening-affect sleep loss response. Even with enough sleep, evening types felt older than their real age, whereas morning types were more impacted by sleep disruptions.



Dr. Balter advised observing quality sleep sleep to combat aging. The Proceedings of the Royal Society B studies imply that sleep habits may affect perceived age.

(Photo: Claudia Manas on Unsplash)

Lack of Sleep Linked to High Blood Pressure

Meanwhile, at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session, another sleep research uncovered that sleeping less than seven hours a night increases the risk of high blood pressure.



Some sleep research has linked sleep duration to high blood pressure, but the results have been inconsistent. To clarify, the research integrated data from 16 studies involving over a million people in six nations from January 2000 to May 2023, per Mirage News.

Read Also: Moderna's Next-Gen COVID-19 Vaccine Passes Phase 3 Clinical Trial



Participants without high blood pressure were monitored for five years on average. The study indicated that shorter sleep durations were related to a higher risk of hypertension, even after controlling for demographic and cardiovascular variables.



The study's chief scientist, Dr. Kaveh Hosseini, stressed that, based on the results, the length of bedtime is important since sleeping fewer than seven hours a night increases the risk of high blood pressure, which may lead to stroke and heart disease. Moreover, the risk increased for individuals sleeping less than five hours.

Why Catching Catching Up on Lost Sleep Can Help a Lot

The research found that sleeping fewer than seven hours elevated hypertension risk by 7%, increasing to 11% for those sleeping less than five. Diabetes and smoking increase hypertension risk by at least 20 percent. Dr. Hosseini noted that lifestyle behaviors or underlying health disorders like sleep apnea or anxiety may disturb sleep patterns.



TechTimes previously reported that compensating for lost sleep can bring down health risks significantly. In Nanjing Medical University, researchers found that snoozing for a few minutes may save lives.



According to analysis of 3,400 participants, sleeping less throughout the workweek but two more hours on weekends may cut myocardial infarction and stroke risk by 63%. It also indicated that those who slept fewer than six hours a night during the workweek without making up on weekends had a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.



The sleep study shows that "weekend catch-up sleep" helps avoid angina, stroke, and heart disease, particularly for weekday sleepers.

Related Article: Arnold Schwarzenegger Opens up About Pacemaker Surgery, Says He's Now 'A Little Bit More of a Machine'

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Chinese President Xi Jinping recently issued a stern warning against attempts to restrict China's access to technology during discussions with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

The warning comes amid escalating tensions over chip exports, with the Netherlands imposing licensing requirements on machinery crucial for advanced processor chips in 2023.

Worsening US-China Tech War

The United States blockade on Chinese access to advanced chips and equipment has been triggering a global ripple effect.

Japan and the Netherlands have agreed to join the United States in tightening export controls on chipmaking equipment to China in 2022. The Netherlands reiterated its stance last year, prohibiting ASML Holding from supplying particular immersion lithography machines to China.

Dutch company ASML, the sole producer of machines for advanced semiconductors, found itself at the epicenter of this technological standoff. In 2023, China emerged as ASML's second-largest market, accounting for a significant portion of its revenue.

Dutch PM Visits China

AP reports that Rutte, cautious not to divulge specifics of the talks, emphasized that measures taken are not directed at any single country. However, discussions with Xi and Chinese Premier Li Qiang pivoted around the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Rutte underscored the importance of China understanding the direct security threat posed by the war, urging discreet Chinese influence on Russia to alter the course of events.

Despite the geopolitical tensions, ASML's prominence in the global chip market remains unshaken. The Dutch government's recent move to deny licenses for ASML's export of advanced chip-making equipment to China underscores the complexities of maintaining diplomatic relations amidst technological rivalries.

Read Also: Apple Chooses Baidu's AI for iPhone 16 in China: Report

(Photo : ROB ENGELAAR/ANP/AFP via Getty Images)

This photograph taken on March 27, 2024 in Veldhoven shows containers of Dutch tech giant ASML, which supplies chipmaking machines to the semiconductor industry. ASML is one of the world's leading manufacturers of equipment to make state-of-the-art semiconductor chips, which power everything from mobile phones to cars. ASML announced earlier this year that it had been blocked from exporting "a small number" of its advanced machines to China, amid reports of US pressure on the Dutch government.

'Curbs Will Not Stop Progress'

Chinese media report that Chinese President Xi Jinping assured Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte that efforts to restrict China's access to technology won't impede its progress.

"The Chinese people also have the right to legitimate development, and no force can stop the pace of China's scientific and technological development and progress," the president said.

He emphasized China's right to legitimate development and asserted that no external force could halt its scientific and technological advancements.

While the export curbs have had only a modest impact on ASML's financial performance thus far, concerns linger about the company's long-term reliability as a business partner. Chinese chip makers may seek alternatives to ASML equipment, potentially turning to domestic options or Japanese rivals.

The Dutch government faces a delicate balancing act as it navigates between safeguarding national security interests and preserving economic ties. Trade Minister Geoffrey van Leeuwen emphasized the priority of protecting ASML's interests while acknowledging that national security takes precedence.

The ongoing tensions in the semiconductor industry reflect broader geopolitical shifts, with nations vying for dominance in critical technologies. China's push for self-reliance in chip manufacturing contrasts with the United States' efforts to curb its technological ascendancy

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: China Blocks Intel, AMD Chips and Microsoft's Windows on Government Devices

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CMC Networks announced on Tuesday it has launched its Air Connect solution in South Africa, which promises to deliver broadband wireless connectivity to businesses in remote and rugged environments.

CMC Networks says its Air Connect service leverages wireless technology to provide businesses with robust and stable connectivity across varying landscapes in South Africa, including rural farmland, sparse deserts, and rugged terrains.

The service offers data speeds ranging from 5 Mbps to over 500 Mbps, depending on business requirements. The operator says Air Connect can be installed within three to ten days.

CMC Networks is positioning the service as a stopgap for customers awaiting a fibre build, providing a rapid temporary deployment to minimise network downtime. Once fibre connectivity is available, CMC Networks says Air Connect can still serve as an active backup with an SD-WAN overlay deployment, which would increase network resilience, redundancy and uptime.

[Air Connect] provides our customers with a wider selection of connectivity options to add redundancy to their networks, helping to keep their businesses up and running no matter the circumstances, said CMC Networks CEO Marisa Trisolino.

Air Connect is a fully scalable solution to fit our customers unique business needs, with rapid installation, high-speed connectivity, increased network uptime and reliability, said CMC Networks CTO Geoff Dornan.
The federal judge has ruled that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has presented a compelling case against Coinbase, warranting the continuation of its lawsuit.

Judge Katherine Polk Failla, presiding over the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, delivered the ruling, denying most of Coinbase's motion to dismiss the SEC's allegations.

SEC Allegations Against Coinbase

The SEC initiated legal action against Coinbase, accusing the exchange of operating as an unregistered broker, exchange, and clearinghouse. The regulatory body contends that Coinbase violated federal securities laws by offering trading and staking services to the public without appropriate registration. Additionally, the SEC alleges that Coinbase Wallet acted as an unregistered brokerage, further exacerbating the company's legal predicament.

Related Article: CryptoWatch: Coinbase Bounces Back, Bitcoin's Future, Crypto's Help to USD's Strength

SEC vs Coinbase Lawsuit Will Continue

While Judge Failla acknowledged the SEC's plausible argument regarding certain tokens listed on Coinbase Wallet potentially meeting the criteria for "investment contracts," she dismissed claims that Coinbase was acting as a brokerage. However, she upheld other aspects of the SEC's lawsuit, indicating that the case will proceed.

Impact of Lawsuit in the Crypto Industry

The outcome of this lawsuit carries significant implications for the broader crypto industry, as it could shape regulatory standards and operational practices in the United States, according to CoinDesk.

Should the court rule in favor of the SEC's position, exchanges may face heightened scrutiny and regulatory obligations akin to national securities exchanges. This could result in stricter disclosure requirements and limitations on the availability of tokens for retail investors.

"When a customer purchases a token on Coinbase's platform, she is not just purchasing a token, which in and of itself is valueless; rather, she is buying into the token's digital ecosystem, the growth of which is necessarily tied to value of the token. This is evidenced by, among others, the facts that (i) initial coin offerings are engineered to have resale value in the secondary markets and (ii) crypto-asset issuers continue to publicize their plans to expand and support the token's blockchain long after its initial offering," Failla said.

Crypto Firms Might Face Regulatory Uncertainty

Coinbase's legal battle with the SEC reflects a much bigger challenge faced by crypto companies in navigating regulatory ambiguity. The outcome of this case, along with others like the ongoing SEC lawsuit against Ripple, will undoubtedly influence the regulatory landscape for years to come.

While initial motions may have been denied, the substantive arguments and implications of the case will be thoroughly deliberated as proceedings progress.

Moving forward, stakeholders will closely monitor developments in this case, anticipating its potential impact on the industry's future trajectory.

Meanwhile, the decision did not spare Coinbase as its shares dropped by around 2.5% following the news about the lawsuit ruling, per CNBC.

Back in April 2023, the tables turned for the SEC as Coinbase sued the government agency for its lack of response in crypto regulation.

The crptocurrency exchange accused that the SEC failed to respond to the petition. This left the company hanging and waiting for any decisions.

Read Also: Coinbase Reports 11% Stock Increase, Bullish Returns in the Crypto Market in Q4 2023

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Disappearance of little Emile: the child's bones have been discovered, announces the prosecution

Initial research, role play, discovery of bones... The key dates of the disappearance of little Emile

Medical innovation: New tests make it possible to detect cancer long before symptoms appear

The week of God Twitter: from the tragedy on the Baltimore bridge to Holy Week that looks like the Flood

Death of little Emile: how to explain the discovery of his bones near Haut-Vernet?

Do you know what your Bach flower is according to your horoscope? Answers Josep Guarch, floral therapist, homeopath and astrologer

Israeli bombing of displaced people and journalists in the courtyard of Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir Al-Balah

The revolution of the hungry is coming... even if it is delayed

Pension payments will be reduced in real terms, and changes to the social security system for the new fiscal year will be

The employment rate of people with disabilities required by companies will be raised to 2.5% or more.

Journal de l'Afrique - Second reading of the New Constitution in Togo, a setback in the face of opposition pressure?

The execution of young Palestinian men in Khan Yunis...a crime filmed by the killer who failed to bury the evidence

Tour of Flanders: Mathieu van der Poel wins for the third time in his career

Loudly slamming the door: Shevchenko won the mass start at the Chechen Biathlon Championships, and Garanichevs team won the relay

Premier League: City and Arsenal pave the way for Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool to the top of the table

A curious own goal by Suleymanov and a saving strike by Glushenkov: Krasnodar missed out on victory over Lokomotiv in the RPL match

Tennis: Sinner triumphs at the Masters 1000 in Miami by crushing Dimitrov in the final

Lebanon: Easter celebrations tarnished by the situation in Gaza and the south of the country

New employees take on the challenge of shearing sheep at a unique joining ceremony Shizuoka Fujinomiya

Ten years at the helm of the "Yixin-Europe" China-Europe freight train: from a line to a network

Hebei Chongli received more than 4.4 million tourists in the first full snow season after the Winter Olympics

Chicken and egg or egg? The industry is hotly discussing in Shanghai how the domestic computing power industry will rise.

China Eastern Airlines will add new and expanded routes to many airports in Guangdong during the 2024 summer and autumn flight season

The price of electricity will remain negative for several hours this Monday

In response to the 2024 issue, the maximum speed for large trucks on expressways will be increased to 90km/h

The most prominent developments on the 177th day of the Israeli war on Gaza

Israeli magazine: We are faced with two options, the better of which is bitter

The State Duma proposed checking the legality of passports issued over the last 10 years

Sonko and the Senegalese... How did they make change despite the obstacles?

Britain probably couldn't fight Russia alone for more than two months

Until May 22: a court in Moscow arrested four accused of the terrorist attack in Crocus

Algorithmic video surveillance at the Olympics: what are we talking about, and why is it worrying?

Bandidos: a series so tacky that it seems taken from the Disney Channel of the 90s

The Russian Embassy in Seoul condemned the cartoon of the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall

Antibes: an orca dies at Marineland park, the second death in five months

Daily Shincho: Mariupol residents do not feel the impact of the conflict on the life of the city

The captain of the expedition that crossed the Atlantic under sail as in the 17th century to make a documentary dies at the age of 75 on the high seas

Two Israelis were injured in a stabbing attack in Beersheba and the perpetrator was martyred

8 new massacres in Gaza and fierce battles between the resistance and the occupation forces

Will Haniyeh and Nakhla's visit to Iran affect the course of the negotiations?

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Presidents of Brazil, France announce green investment plan on Amazon visit



Belem, Brazil, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



French President Emmanuel Macron kicked off a visit to Brazil on Tuesday with the launch of a billion-euro Amazonian green investment plan alongside his counterpart Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

The pair's trip to Belem, the northern host city of a major UN climate summit next year, makes Macron the first president of France to visit Brazil in over a decade and comes after a stop in nearby French Guiana.

His public event with Lula on the jungle island of Combu, full of smiles and affectionate gestures, highlighted the stark reversal of relations since the term of Jair Bolsonaro, Lula's far-right predecessor.

The former president had clashed with Macron's government over environmental destruction -- and even lobbed insults directed at French first lady Brigitte Macron.

The investment plan aims to raise "1 billion euros ($1.08 billion) of public and private investment over the next four years," according to a roadmap published by the French presidency ahead of next year's COP30 summit.

The leaders are seeking to promote "a great public and private global investment plan into the bioeconomy" in the Brazilian and Guyanese Amazon, the announcement said, especially as Brazil presides over the G20 for 2024.

France, the seventh largest economy in the world, and Brazil, the ninth largest, are considered key players in a geopolitical scene marked by rivalry between China and the United States.

Paris sees Brasilia as a bridge to large emerging economies whose voices Brazil is trying to amplify through its presidency of the G20, and membership of the BRICS+ group.

"We are living in a Franco-Brazilian moment," the Elysee presidential palace said earlier, highlighting "many points of convergence" with Lula, particularly on "major global issues."

"France is an essential, unavoidable actor for Brazilian foreign policy," said the head of Brazilian diplomacy for Europe, Maria Luisa Escorel de Moraes.



- Amazon chief honored -



Tuesday's announcement proposes the creation of a "carbon market," intended to reward countries which invest in natural carbon sinks, such as the Amazon rainforest.

The world's largest tropical forest plays a key role in the fight against climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide emissions.

Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon halved in 2023 after soaring under Bolsonaro, as Lula's government stepped up environmental policing.

The agreement also includes support for "indigenous people and local Amazon communities, which have an essential role in protecting biodiversity through their traditional knowledge and forest management practices," according to the announcement.

In Belem, Macron awarded tribal chief Raoni Metuktire with the Legion of Honor, the highest French distinction.

"The fight" for the forest and its peoples, "I wanted to say that we will continue to wage it alongside you," Macron told the chief.

Metuktire left his home in the Amazon more than 30 years ago to travel the world with his warning of the threats posed by the destruction of the rainforest.

A striking figure with his large wooden lip plate and yellow feather headdress, he has taken his message to popes, royals and presidents, with his stature as an environmental campaigner rising with growing awareness of the climate emergency.



- Mercosur and Ukraine -



France and Brazil are working together to manufacture four conventionally powered submarines, the third of which will be launched on Wednesday by both leaders at the Itaguai naval base, near Rio de Janeiro.

Brasilia could also call on Paris to help it develop nuclear propulsion on a fifth submarine.

Then there are the more sticky topics, such as the long-stalled free trade agreement between the European Union and South America's Mercosur bloc, which has recently run into fierce resistance from European farmers.

Macron said in January that France opposes the deal because it "doesn't make Mercosur farmers and companies abide by the same rules as ours."

While Lula is expected to reiterate his call for the rapid signing of the deal, both Paris and Brasilia have indicated the two-decade old negotiations would not be a major focus of Macron's trip, which includes meetings on Thursday in the Brazilian capital.

The war in Ukraine, which Macron wants to be a key focus of the G20, is another point of contention.

Lula, who has positioned himself as a champion of the "global South," has insisted that Kyiv and Moscow share responsibility over the conflict and has refused to take a stand against Russia.
Research highlights Australia's carbon credit 'catastrophe'



Sydney, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



Australia's carbon credit scheme was undermined by damning new research Wednesday, which found a world-leading reforestation project had been an underperforming "catastrophe".

Vast swathes of land across Australia's desert Outback have been earmarked for native forest regeneration, which is meant to offset emissions as new trees suck up carbon.

But researchers have found that across almost 80 percent of these plantations forest growth was either stagnant -- or that woodlands were shrinking.

Despite this, Australia had used these projects to bank millions of tonnes in questionable carbon credits, scientists said, which are used to supposedly offset polluting industries.

"I think it can only be described, and I'm using generous words here, as a gross failure," lead author Andrew Macintosh told AFP.

"It's a catastrophe," he said, adding that it would "stain" Australia's reputation.

Australia has set aside almost 42 million hectares (104 million acres) under the scheme, an area larger than the landmass of Japan.

Researchers said it was "one of the world's largest" natural carbon offset projects.

Officials claim that since 2013, the native forest spreading across this land has sucked up more than 27 million tonnes of carbon.

But the peer-reviewed research, which used satellite imagery to chart forest growth, has cast serious doubt on this figure.

"They should be showing really strong increases in tree cover," said Macintosh, a former chair of the government body responsible for tracking Australia's carbon offsets.

"And it's not there, we're not seeing it."

Each ton of carbon sequestered by these forests is chalked up as a single carbon credit.

These carbon credits are then bought by mining companies, airlines, and other heavily polluting industries to offset their emissions.

Macintosh said Australia was, in essence, selling carbon credits that did not exist.



- Lack of faith -



"There are meant to be checks along the way. But they're not applying them," said Macintosh, now a professor of environmental law at Australian National University.

"What sort of faith do I have in the carbon credits scheme? It's very, very low. Our scheme is without a doubt amongst the least transparent in the world."

Australia's Clean Energy Regulator said "a number of reviews have confirmed the integrity" of these carbon offsets.

The regulator said it "only issues carbon credits where a project can demonstrate regenerating native forest".

Australian Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the assumptions underpinning the scheme remained "basically sound".

Climate policy has long been a fraught affair in Australia, set back by a decade of political brawling dubbed the "climate wars".

Despite its growing vulnerability to climate-linked natural disasters, Australia remains one of the world's biggest exports of gas and thermal coal.

The peer-reviewed research was published in the Nature Communications journal, Earth & Environment.

Australia has committed to cutting carbon emissions by 43 percent by 2030 from 2005 levels, on a path to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

Australia's carbon dioxide emissions per person are among the highest in the world at 15.3 tonnes, surpassing US levels, World Bank figures show.
England hit by more than 400,000 sewage spills in 2023: report



London, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



A record number of storm drains overflowed with sewage last year in England, official statistics showed on Wednesday, angering campaigners wanting cleaner rivers and seas.

The Environment Agency said there were 464,056 reported sewage spills in 2023 -- up 54 percent from 301,091 the previous year and the highest since current data began being collected in 2016.

In total, there were 3.61 million hours of spills of untreated wastewater -- more than double the amount in the 2022, it added.

Environmentalists have increasingly voiced outrage at the rise in pollution on the UK's beaches and waterways, and have pointed the finger at privatised water companies.

"The scale of the discharges by water companies is a final indictment of a failing industry," said James Wallace, chief executive of campaign group River Action, calling for regulatory reform.

"Rather than investing in future-proofing their infrastructure, fixing leaky pipes, upgrading wastewater treatment plants, these international businesses have plundered our most precious natural resource -- fresh water."

During heavy rainfall, water companies have been allowed to dump untreated wastewater into rivers and the sea to prevent sewers from becoming clogged and flowing back into buildings.

In February, a report by the Rivers Trust charity found that no stretches of river in England were classed as being in "good" overall health.

Leading causes of poor water quality were pollution from fertiliser or livestock and the discharge of sewage, the study found.

Industry body Water UK has said it would triple investment to pound10 billion ($12.6 billion) between 2025 and 2030 to cut sewage spills by 40 percent.

River Action took the Environment Agency to court last month over the condition of the River Wye, which is one of Britain's most important waterways.

It claims the agency is allowing the agricultural sector to release highly damaging levels of nutrients from chicken manure into the river, on the border between England and Wales.

Earlier this year, environmental campaigners met in Brighton on England's south coast to call for an end to the dumping of sewage at the town's popular Southwick swimming spot.

In 2022 the Environment Agency found that sewage was dumped into waters near England's most famous beaches for nearly 8,500 hours in 2022, with Brighton beach one of the worst hit.

On Windermere, in the Lake District national park in northwest England, campaigners estimated that over 8,787 hours of untreated sewage was discharged from the seven sites that feed into the lake in 2023.

Thames Water, the nation's biggest supplier, was fined pound3.3 million in 2023 for polluting rivers.
Slovakia says bear that attacked five shot dead



Bratislava, March 27 (AFP) Mar 27, 2024



Slovakia's government on Wednesday said the bear that attacked five people in the country earlier this month was shot dead, as Bratislava drafted plans to ease bear cull restrictions.

The bear attack that left five people injured occurred in the centre of Liptovsky Mikulas, a town nestled in the foothills of the Tatra mountains near popular ski resorts.

"A bear that injured five in Liptovsky Mikulas was successfully shot dead yesterday... A biometrics drone was used to identify it," the environment minister Tomas Taraba said on social media on Wednesday.

Bear attacks have been on the rise in the Central European country, with 20 such incidents last year, up from only eight in 2021, according to data from the environment ministry.

This month, a woman from Belarus died following a separate bear attack in the Demanovska Dolina valley area in Liptovsky Mikulas district, falling to her death from a cliff after being chased by the animal.

On Wednesday, the government in Bratislava approved a draft law to address the bear attacks in urban areas.

The proposal stipulates the creation of a 500-metre safety zone in the vicinity of towns and villages.

Any bear entering this zone could be shot, Taraba told journalists.

"Not only members of the special bear response team will be able to shoot, but also hunters, police officers, and, in national parks, also their administrators," Taraba said.

The Slovak populist government earlier this month published guidelines on the protective shooting of brown bears, prompting backlash from environmental groups and the opposition.

The opposition also claimed authorities had shot the wrong bear.

"According to documents written by the bear intervention team that we found, a 67-kilogramme female bear was caught and killed," Progressive Slovakia opposition party member Michal Wiezik said.

"It is not necessary to use high-end biometrics to make it clear that such a shooting cannot be in any way related to the 100-kilogramme male they were looking for," he added.

On Monday, the Slovak environment minister, together with his Romanian and Finnish counterparts, appealed to Brussels for an EU-wide solution to the issue of bears threatening people, according to the local TASR news agency.
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 Can you name the last five shows you watched? Were they series that stuck with you? Or were they churn-and-burn one-night stands? Was the plotting layered and borderline confusing, and were there at least 10 people in the topline cast? Or was it compact and suburban, with two leads and a supporting cast of maybe five people? Was it in any way memorable? Were there sandals, swords and complex world building? If the answer is no to all of the above, the cure is a dose of epic television, preferably with some scenes so dark youll struggle to see whats going on. Hiroyuki Sanada as Yoshii Toranaga in Shogun. Credit: Kurt Iswarienko / FX Ever since Game of Thrones ended in 2019, weve been looking for the next Game of Thrones. The kind of show thats epic in scale, plotting and execution (and that includes a willingness to bump off big-name characters). You know, TV that has the phwoar factor. The actual next Game of Thrones, the prequel House of the Dragons, wasnt it, while 3 Body Problem, the Netflix adaptation of the Chinese sci-fi novel of the same name by the creators of Game of Thrones, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, comes close, but still isnt it. Amazons billion-dollar series Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power was another pretender  go on, I dare you to tell me what happened  despite the presence of elves, swords and a hobbit (sans sandals). Emilia Clarke and Kit Harington in the final season of Game of Thrones.

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Of course, this isnt to say Game of Thrones was perfect. Its treatment of women was often highly problematic, particularly in the first few seasons, with nudity and sexual violence casually bandied about with little recrimination. Through the shows eight seasons, women often had very little power, even though the ending balanced that out. Book nerds complained about the ending, but it was fine. For once, it was the women who ended up on top. Cosmo Jarvis chews the scenery - in a good way - as English sailor John Blackthorne in Shogun. So what is it? What is the next great epic series? May I present the case for Shogun? Yes, its officially a limited series, but its the epic we need right now. It has swords and sandals (waraji) and multi-layered plotting, with rival dynasties, strong women and a performance at its centre that is so unhinged its hard to look away. For bonus points, a sailor is boiled alive during episode one, while a bloody scene featuring cannons quite literally does not miss. Its also been name-checked by George R.R. Martin, who said he drew inspiration from the complex plotting of James Clavells 1975 historical epic about an English sailor stranded in feudal Japan when he was writing Game of Thrones. Anna Sawai plays Lady Mariko, Blackthornes translator, in Shogun. Set in 1600s Japan, Shogun sets itself up as a game of thrones: A council of five regents has been tasked to keep the peace after the death of the sovereign. His heir is still underage, but a power struggle between Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) and Lord Ishido Kazunari (Takehiro Hira) begins to simmer.

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Into this friction comes John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), an English sailor who is taken prisoner when his ship is wrecked on the Japanese coast. He has little regard for the Japanese savages or the Portuguese Christians who have been trading out of Osaka. They, in turn, think him an idiot but a useful one, and he becomes a pawn in the battle between Toranaga and Ishido. To make use of Blackthorne, he is appointed a translator, Mariko (Anna Sawai), who provides counsel to Toranaga. Throw in a double-dealing general, Kashigi Yabushige (Tadanobu Asano), a cocky son, Yoshii Nagakado (Yuki Kura), a jealous husband/samurai Buntaro (Shinnosuke Abe) and Blackthornes masterful consort Usami Fuji (Moeka Hoshi), and its a thrilling, high-stakes and, yes, funny series that rockets along and requires the viewer to keep up. Nothing is handed to you on a plate, youre expected to keep up and work it out. Which, frankly, is what good TV should be. When you consider the shows origins, none of this is a surprise. Clavell was a master plotter, a writer who was not afraid of tangled, complicated stories. The 1980 miniseries adaptation took its blockbuster credentials seriously and along with Roots it heralded the golden age of the miniseries. According to Nielson ratings at the time, about 32 per cent of US households watched at least one episode. Loading It won the Emmy and Golden Globe for best series and launched Richard Chamberlain, who played Blackthorne, into his phwoar era when he starred as the original Hot Priest in another 1980s blockbuster The Thorn Birds. The original Shogun miniseries was not without its problems: putting aside the whole white saviour notion, its biggest misstep was that none of the Japanese dialogue was subtitled, with the producers reasoning that if John Blackthorne couldnt understand the Japanese, then why should the audience.

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The owners of this cafe and restaurant, in the base of a shiny apartment block on a busy road, have endeared themselves to locals, writes Dani Valent.

As featured in the Melbourne hit list April 2024. See all stories .

1 / 7 Cafe and restaurant Tapenade is a taste of France on Commercial Road. Chris Hopkins 2 / 7 Croque-monsieur (ham and cheese sandwich). Chris Hopkins 3 / 7 Duck leg is confited for 12 hours and crisped to order. Chris Hopkins 4 / 7 Nicoise pan bagnat. Chris Hopkins 5 / 7 The namesake tapenade is served with focaccia. Chris Hopkins 6 / 7 Buckwheat crepe with ham, cheese and egg. Chris Hopkins 7 / 7 Tapenade occupies a ground floor space in the Chevron Apartments building. Chris Hopkins Previous Slide Next Slide

French$$$

There are countless metrics used to judge restaurants. You could look at hats, stars and scores. There are, of course, profit-and-loss statements. But Ive got a new gauge for you: its how many presents the owners receive from their customers on the occasion of the birth of their first child.

At Tapenade, a three-year-old French cafe near the Alfred hospital, proprietors Laurie Faget and Kevin Chassagne have so endeared themselves to locals that new baby Maxine has been showered with almost 50 gifts. Its a sign of the community that can gather around an intensely personal business.

Laurie and Kevin are food people through and through. She grew up on a duck farm where catering for 30 cousins was no big deal. His father is a chef who might decide to cook a whole pig for 100 guests. After working in hospitality in the United States, UK and Europe, the couple settled in Melbourne, working for the Reymond family at Bistro Gitan, LHotel Gitan and Frederic.
A Melbourne accountant to a string of hospitality and music stars will spend almost four years in jail after admitting he swindled more than $2.1 million from their accounts over 11 years.

The County Court heard Damien Luscombe, 38, was in the grips of a gambling addiction when he stole from 11 high-profile clients, including performers Angus and Julia Stone, the band Peking Duk and singer Gotye, between 2011 and 2022.

Gotye (left), Melbournes St Jeromes Laneway festival and Peking Duk.

Judge George Georgiou said Luscombes offending was elaborate, carefully planned and involved creating fraudulent documents to transfer money into his personal bank account 239 times.

While gambling might explain your offending, it provides you with no excuse, Georgiou said.
As police renewed their focus on William Tyrrells foster parents as suspects in his baffling disappearance, pressure was building on the couple.

Long cleared by original investigator Gary Jubelin of any involvement in what has become Australias highest-profile missing person case, the couple were in 2020 once more in the spotlight of homicide detectives trying to ascertain how a three-year-old boy visiting family in a quiet country town could seemingly vanish into thin air.

William Tyrrells foster parents leave court on Wednesday; the missing boy pictured on the morning he vanished. Credit: Louise Kennerley

Investigators, who came to believe that Williams foster mother dumped his body in nearby bushland after his accidental death, were turning the screws on the couple.

They were put before the fearsome Crime Commission, and another unsuccessful search for Williams body on the NSW Mid North Coast was launched. The car that police suspect was used to transport the body was seized, and their home was bugged for 10 months.
But now he now wants it gone.

Indeed, our man even wrote a couple of years ago that life in the city wouldnt bear thinking about without the race.

The regular on Channel Tens The Project and columniser with Melbournes US-owned tabloid, was a long-term booster of the Australian Grand Prix, broadcast by Prices home network, Ten, and Foxtel.

Writing in the paper in November, Price was gracious enough to give the operation 16 months to get out of town, but was firm in his newfound conviction that the Labor state government ought to just rip up its hosting deal  Commonwealth Games-style  with Formula 1 owner Liberty Media.

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Price argued the sweetheart deal between the state and Liberty negotiated by former premier Dan Andrews a couple of years back to keep the race here, isnt a patch on the sweetheart deal struck by former premier Jeff Kennett, back in the 90s, to pinch the event from Adelaide.

Maybe Steve pondered these things while he was at the race on Sunday, enjoying the Albert Park trackside hospitality in both the Marriott Bonvoy Lounge and the Paramount+ suite.

We called Price on Tuesday, to see whether his hardline stance on the grand prix would preclude him from rocking up to the race again  although you have to wonder if the event has a future at all, now the Channel Ten man has pulled his support.
Asbestos is feared to have been found on a freshly redeveloped school oval in Melbournes outer east after state railway corporation VicTrack used the site as a temporary car park.

An oval on the site that is home to both Upwey High School and Upwey Primary School was used as a construction site and spillover public car park for months last year while VicTrack built a multi-deck car park at nearby Belgrave train station.

The grounds of Upwey High School and Primary School are believed to be contaminated with asbestos. Credit: NearMap

The oval has just been rebuilt but remains under VicTracks control and is out of bounds until further notice, Upwey High School assistant principal Debbie Martine told families on Tuesday night.

As you might recall, the oval was re-built to facilitate the construction of an overflow car park during delivery of the new multi-level car park at Belgrave station, Martine said in a note to families.
The new dawn that appeared to break last month when the Albanese government decided to modify the stage 3 tax cuts turns out to have been false. Following a long period of drift during which it had allowed public confidence in its performance to crumble, the government seemed to be back in control of the political agenda, outflanking the Coalition.

The prime minister offered an effective argument for the new tax policy, fought off the broken-promise attacks and looked to have reaped the rewards at the Dunkley by-election, with the Liberals attracting a yawn-inducing 3.5 per cent swing. But for the most part since the tax announcement, Anthony Albanese hasnt been a pervasive public presence.

Credit: Dionne Gain

Thats not quite true, because he has been getting media mentions. We all know that he attended a Taylor Swift show in Sydney and a private Katy Perry gig at a Melbourne mansion. And he got engaged. And of course, just a few days before the tax announcement he showed up with a bunch of wealthy worthies at the Australian Open mens final and was roundly booed by the crowd.

Best wishes to the PM and his fiancee Jodie Haydon. But with the other stuff, given how much political trouble he and his government are in, I dont get it. He secured the prime ministership as Everyman Albo, who understood the everyday concerns of Australians. The public stopped buying that last year as he burned through the governments political capital and his own in the lead-up to the failed referendum on the Indigenous Voice to parliament.
London: A regional West Australian councillor has appeared in a bizarre video on Russian state-owned TV, congratulating President Vladimir Putin on his election victory.

Adrian McRae, who was elected to the Port Hedland council in early March and has not yet been sworn in, was reportedly flown to Moscow as part of an international delegation to observe the presidential elections.

Port Hedland councillor Adrian McRae speaking on Russian media. Credit: Telegram: AussieCossack

In a video published by Channel One State News, McRae congratulated Putin on his win and hailed it as the most transparent in the world.

Can I please pass on my most sincere congratulations to Mr Vladimir Putin, he said.
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On March 8, the Wyoming Legislature gaveled out of the 67th Legislative Session. Speaker of the House Albert Sommers and President of the Senate Ogden Driskill chose to adjourn early, with three legislative workdays still available to complete the work of the people of Wyoming, foreclosing the ability to override the Governors vetoes.

The decision of legislative leadership to adjourn early served as an open invitation to Governor Gordon to veto measures important to the people of Wyoming with no recourse.

It appears that the Governor took that invitation and ran with it, vetoing the following bills without the ability of the people, through their elected representatives, to override his decisions:

HB0125 Repeal Gun Free Zones

SF0054 Homeowner Tax Exemption

HB0148 Regulation of Abortions

SF0103 Wyoming PRIME Act

SF0013 Federal land use plans- legal actions authorized

The Governor also exercised his line-item veto authority to reinstate and provide further public funding to divisive and illegal DEI programming at the University of Wyoming.

Our founders wisely created a system of government characterized by a division of power between three co-equal branches of government. Legislative leaders have destroyed this division of power, elevating the Governor to the position of an empirical king with unilateral, unchecked authority.

It is for these reasons that the WYFC is calling on Legislative Leadership to call a Special Session of the Wyoming Legislature pursuant to Article III of the Wyoming Constitution. We are committed to finishing the work the people sent us to Cheyenne to complete.

John Bear

Representative

Wyoming House District 31

Chairman,

Wyoming Freedom Caucus
Ulviyya Shahin

The number of tourists visiting national parks during the holiday days has been disclosed.

According to Azernews, during the holiday period, 3,540 tourists visited the national parks. This was informed by Arzu Babayeva, an official from the Service for the Conservation of Biological Diversity.

She noted that during those days, the national parks receiving the most tourists were Goygol, Shirvan, and Absheron, ranking in the top three.

Meanwhile, Absheron National Park, located on the Absheron Peninsula along the Caspian Sea coast, charmed tourists with its unique landscapes, including mud volcanoes, rocky shores, and ancient petroglyphs. The park's proximity to Baku, the capital city, made it easily accessible for day trips, attracting both local residents and tourists alike.

With ongoing initiatives to enhance infrastructure, facilities, and visitor experiences, Azerbaijan's national parks are poised to remain key attractions, inviting travellers to discover the wonders of nature and embark on unforgettable journeys across the country's diverse landscapes.
Adnams redesigns core range of beers

Adnams, the Southwold brewery first established in 1872, has revealed refreshed branding and packaging for its core beer range. The redesign will apply to both on- and off-trade, as well as two new releases joining the brands beer portfolio.

The new designs take inspiration from the Suffolk coast, where the Adnams brewery is based, and have been created in collaboration with design studio CookChick and Norfolk-based artist Vanessa Sorboen. The beers each have a unique painting reflecting their story and place of origin, while being united by an overall look and feel.

Fergus Fitzgerald, head of production at Adnams, explained: There are two main aims of the redesign. Firstly, it allows us to bring all our beers back under one unified look. Beers like Mosaic and Dry Hopped have been two of our core beers for a while and whilst having a different look made sense in the early days, bringing them together again reflects the fact that our brewers use the same great quality ingredients and the same skill and dedication when brewing a beer, regardless of whether the recipe comes from 1872 or from 2024.

Secondly, the new branding really brings out that sense of place and connection to where these beers are made. The paintings tell the stories and showcase the beauty of the landscapes that inspired those beers. I hope that this reminds existing Adnams drinkers why they first fell in love with that beer, and that those who dont know us so well see something in the waters to inspire that first sip.

Adnams emphasises the importance of the cask category to its brand and British beer. The new design encompasses moulded pump clips, which according to Max Bond, Adnams sales director, will create excellent stand out in pubs and will attract new drinkers to take a fresh interest in the cask category and taste beer at its best.

The first of the redesigns to appear in the off-trade will be Adnams Broadside and Ghost Ship 4.5% pale ale bottles, which will be available via the Adnams website and major supermarkets. The rest of the portfolio is expected to follow throughout April and May.

Also joining the refreshed portfolio are two new beers. Double dry-hopped IPA Big Skies and Belgian-style blonde beer Deep Seas will launch on 4 April.

27 March 2024 - Lucy Schofield
In case you havent been following Freds every move on Insta like the rest of NZ, he put out an open form for Kiwi DJs to put forward their work for the chance to open for the UK DJ at his surprise pop-up show.
Veer Savarkars real story was kept out of sight all these years





Staff Reporter

The responsibility of an artist is to raise questions among people through his work, said renowned actor Randeep Hooda during a press conference held at Hotel Centre Point, on Tuesday. The actor was in the city to promote his film Swatantrya Veer Savarkar based on the life of Indian freedom fighter and activist Vinayak Damodar Savarker, released last week in Hindi and Marathi language. Sandeep Joshi, former Mayor and President of Shri Siddhivinayak Sewa Trust, was also present during the press conference. Randeep Hooda, along with portraying the titular role, has also directed it and is one of the writers and producers of the film. He shared his experience of the challenges and rewards of taking on the multifaceted role of director and lead actor simultaneously. He expressed his passion for bringing the story on the silver screen. Through my film, I want to let people know Veer Savarkars story, which was kept out of sight from everyone for many years. I was working on this film for last two years, and a lot of planning went behind presenting the whole story in three hours, said Hooda.

He highlighted the importance of portraying historical figures to youth. Through such films, the youth gets to know about many personalities who were part of Indias freedom struggle. Most people know about his Kala Pani ordeal, but most are not aware of the inhuman treatment meted out to Indians in prisons during British colonial period, and the trauma faced by the families left behind, he said. He also discussed the research he did before shooting the film and while sharing his journey of preparing himself to don the titular role, he said that he lost a lot of body weight to deliver and authentic performance and to justify the complex situations the character was going through in the film. He also thanked the team for their constant dedication and hard work throughout the production.
5 Chinese among 6 killed in suicide attack in Pakistan





By Sajjad Hussain

ISLAMABAD,

AT LEAST five Chinese nationals were among the six persons killed on Tuesday when an explosive-packed vehicle rammed into their bus in Pakistans troubled northwestern province of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, officials said. The Chinese were working on the Dasu hydropower project. Several others were injured in the incident that occurred in the Bisham area of Shangla district of the province when a bus en route from Islamabad to Kohistan was hit by a vehicle coming from the opposite direction, police said. Senior police officer Muhammad Ali Gandapur confirmed the incident and the death toll, adding that apparently it was a suicide attack.

Five Chinese nationals and their Pakistani driver were killed in the attack, Gandapur told the media. No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi rushed to the Chinese embassy here and met the Chinese ambassador Jiang Zaidong. He offered condolences and also assured the envoy that the Pakistan Government would bring the perpetrators to justice. President Asif Ali Zardari strongly condemned the attack and expressed deep grief over the deaths of the Chinese nationals.

Anti-Pakistan elements will never succeed in damaging Pak-China friendship, he said in a statement. Zardari also conveyed his condolences to the families of the Chinese nationals and the neighbouring government. Meanwhile, police and officials of other security agencies rushed to the scene of the attack and launched a probe into the incident. They also helped to retrieve the dead bodies. Security arrangements were tightened at the spot and the bodies were being shifted to a hospital, Dawn.Com said quoting Bisham Station House Officer (SHO) Bakht Zahir. Thousands of Chinese personnel are working in Pakistan on several projects being carried out under the aegis of the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
All eyes on Chhindwara: Oppn raises eyebrows over Digvijay Singhs conspicuous absence





By Bhavana Aparajita

Shukla

Filing nomination is a part of election process, mainly election results hold curiosity after the announcement of party candidates. But Kamal Naths son Nakul Naths nomination formality drew much attention in the political circle of the State. Till now, more than a dozen nomination forms have been submitted in the State. On the very first day of Nakul Naths nomination, BJP leaders and spokesperson trained their guns and posed several questions pertaining to his rally to the Collectorate office. In Bhopal, Neha Bagga, Spokesperson of BJP, pointed out Digvijay Singhs absence on this occasion. She said It has become clear that Digvijay Singh and Congress central leadership has distanced themselves from Kamal Nath and Congress LS candidate from Chhindwara Nakul Nath. It clearly indicates that both have been left abandoned within the party.

On other hand, Pradesh Congress chief Jitu Patwari and Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar along with hundreads of supporters proceeded for the said constituency on Tuesday. Patwari addressed a public meeting in support of the candidate. Nakul Nath, the lone Congress winner in the last general elections in the State, on Tuesday filed his nomination papers from his traditional Chhindwara constituency, which his father and former Chief Minister Kamal Nath represented for nine terms. He was accompanied by his mother and wife. Before that, the senior and junior Nath worshipped at the Lord Shri Hanuman temple in the town. Some of the BJP leaders called it soft Hindutav while Congressmen reiterated Kamal Naths statement that to worship God is not BJPs patent. Though the Chhindwara seat has been the bastion of the Congress, with the grand old party losing elections here just once, BJP is making all out efforts this time to bag it, and set the target of inducting 50,000 workers from the rival party ahead of the polls as part of its ambitious plan.

In 2019, Nakul Nath won his maiden election from the Chhindwara Lok Sabha seat by over 37,000 votes against BJPs Nathan Shah. The senior Nath had won from this constituency in 2014 by 1.16 lakh votes against the BJPs Chandrabhan Singh. Only a few days back Deepak Saxena, a key Kamal Nath aide, resigned from Congress. Political pandits doubts about Saxenas move and termed it may be a strategic step from Naths fold. Political landscape is changing swiftly in the region.
Done but not dusted: Encroachments reappear in city!





By Naman Atolia

From recent times, the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) has emerged as the talk of the town due to the anti-encroachment drives. Ironically, in a case where the corporation is carrying out these drives, on the another side, it has failed to review the areas where such drives have been undergone. In numerous areas of the city including 1100 quarters, Imami Gate, Royal Market, Moti Mosque, encroachments have remerged causing chaos in the city. In the 1100 quarters, encroachments were removed in front of the Hanuman temple of the areas, a drive was conducted in the month of May in 2023. But from some time, one can actually find those vendors at the area operating their business. Due to the same, the footpath which was originally designed for the pedestrians is now occupied by the street vendors. This has taken the area to the precedent condition where people have to suffer while travelling since foot walkers have no way to commute due to the fact that their footpath has been occupied by the vendors. The problem doesnt ends here. The vehicles passing by have to also experience daily hassles while travelling due to the commotion extra commotion created in the area.

At the ground, when The Hitavada spoke to the vendors of the area, they mentioned that they are here to earn their living. Everyday we start working at 3 or 4 in the morning in order to serve the customers, overcoming all the challenges from the side of administration and locals. We do have responsibilities and if our shops are removed and seized by the administration, who will then take of our families and children?, one of the vendors said. Demanding for the development of a Hawkers point exclusively for those of the area, another vendor said that we are indulged in the serving the people with fast food from more than a decade. Suddenly, by the orders of the administration, a squad comes and removes us from our place. Even, no alternative place is allocated to us where we can continue with our work. There are various hawkers point in the city, the administration should develop one such venue where we can earn a living, which will then ensure our financial security too, he demanded.
Dutch leader is visiting Beijing for talks on Ukraine, Gaza and restrictions on high-tech exports

Beijing, Mar 27 (AP)

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is meeting with Chinese leaders Wednesday for talks that are expected to include the wars in Ukraine and Gaza and Dutch restrictions on the export of semiconductor manufacturing equipment to China.

The Netherlands imposed export licensing requirements in 2023 on the sale of machinery that can make advanced processor chips. The move came after the United States blocked Chinese access to advanced chips and the equipment to make them, citing security concerns, and urged its allies to follow suit.

Rutte and Trade Minister Geoffrey van Leeuwen were to meet with China's top leader Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, a Dutch government release said.

Dutch company ASML is the world's only producer of machines that use extreme ultraviolet lithography to make advanced semiconductors. In 2023, China became ASML's second-largest market, accounting for 29 per cent of its revenue as Chinese companies bought up equipment before the licensing requirement took effect.

Beijing has repeatedly accused the US of trying to hold back China's economic development by restricting access to technology. In response, Xi has launched a campaign to develop home-grown chips and other high-tech products.

China always opposes the US overstretching the concept of national security and making various excuses to coerce other countries into imposing a technological blockade against China, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said in January.

NATO and its growing ties with Asia also may come up at Wednesday's talks. Rutte is a leading candidate to be the next head of NATO, an organization that China has criticized for provoking regional tensions and making forays into the Asia-Pacific region.

China has also taken a neutral position on the Ukraine war, providing Russia with diplomatic cover and economic support through trade. That stance has angered and frustrated much of Europe, which sees Russia as the aggressor and Ukraine as the victim.

ASML, the Netherlands' largest company, recently threatened to leave the country over anti-immigration policies that may impact the company's ability to hire talent, leaving government officials scrambling to ensure that the firm does not leave.

Van Leeuwen said this week in an interview with The FD, a Dutch business newspaper, that protecting the interests of ASML is a top priority but acknowledged that national security comes before economic interests.
Economic prowess Mumbai overtakes Beijing to become Asias new billionaire capital





NEW DELHI :

MUMBAI has surpassed Beijing to emerge as Asias new billionaire capital while India has overtaken Germany to become the third-ranked country globally with 271 billionaires, according to the latest Hurun Research Institute report. Mumbai was the fastest-growing billionaire capital in the world, adding 26 in the year and taking it to third in the world and Asias billionaire capital. New Delhi broke into the Top 10 for the first time, the report states. Indias economic prowess was further underscored by the remarkable surge in its billionaire population.

The country added a staggering 94 new billionaires, the highest of any nation except the United States, bringing the total to 271 ultra-high-net-worth individuals. This surge, the highest since 2013, is a testament to the soaring confidence in the Indian economy, as noted by Rupert Hoogewerf, the institutes chairman and chief researcher. Indian billionaires cumulative wealth reached US$1 trillion, surpassing Chinas average wealth per billionaire (US$3.2 billion vs US$3.8 billion), the 2024 Hurun Global Rich List report states. The report highlights that industry-wise the pharmaceutical sector leads the pack with 39 billionaires, followed by the automobile and auto components industry (27), and the chemicals sector (24). Collectively, the wealth of Indian billionaires amounts to a phenomenal $1 trillion, accounting for 7 per cent of the global billionaire wealth, reflecting the countrys substantial economic influence.

The rise of startups, particularly in the booming Artificial Intelligence (AI) space, is a significant contributor as well. This trend aligns with the global focus on AI, which emerged as the biggest driver of wealth creation, generating over half of all new wealth this year. With a young, tech-savvy population and a growing focus on innovation, India is well-positioned to capitalise on this AI revolution, potentially fuelling the creation of even more billionaires in the coming years, the report added. Leading the Indian billionaire list is Mukesh Ambani, the Chairman of Reliance Industries, with a staggering net worth of $115 billion. Closely following is Gautam Adani, the founder of the Adani Group energy conglomerate, with assets valued at $86 billion, marking a $33 billion surge in wealth attributed to a rally in his companies shares. While Indias billionaire population soared, China witnessed a decline, with the report stating, China had a bad year. HK was down 20 per cent, Shenzhen down 19 per cent, and Shanghai down 7 per cent. This downturn can be attributed to the crisis in the countrys real estate and volatile stock market problems in the renewable energy sectors.
Every woman deserves dignity: Kangana Ranaut

CHANDIGARH/NEW DELHI,

Every woman, irrespective of her background and profession, deserves dignity, actor Kangana Ranaut said on Tuesday as Congress leaders comments on Mandi from where she is contesting the Lok Sabha elections snowballed into a massive political row. Ranaut, who makes her political debut as a BJP candidate from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, said she was particularly pained by the derogatory comments on the constituency that is often referred to as Chhota Kashi the world over. The Congress has been in the crosshairs after demeaning remarks on Ranaut and Mandi were posted on the social media handles of its leaders Supriya Shrinate and H S Ahir. The party has always believed there is no place for such language in public discourse and the matter should end with Shrinate clearing the air, Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit told reporters at the AICC headquarters.

Whatever be the profession of a woman, be it teacher, actress, journalist, politician or sex worker, all of them deserve dignity. Im pained especially because of the deplorable comments made about Mandi... All of us who come from Mandi have been hurt by the comments, Ranaut told reporters outside the Chandigarh airport. Asked whether she plans to take any action against the two Congress leaders, the Queen actor, often in the news for her controversial comments on a range of issues, said she had been called to Delhi by BJP President J P Nadda and would respond only after meeting him. I have to maintain the dignity of the party. I cant walk before it. I have to walk with them and follow their instructions, the 37-year-old said. A host of BJP leaders, including Bansuri Swaraj, Amit Malviya and former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, spoke up on the issue.

No place for such language, Shrinate has clarified: Congress: AMID the row over controversial remarks on Kangana Ranaut posted on party leader Supriya Shrinates social media handle, the Congress on Tuesday said it has always believed there is no place for such language in public discourse and the matter should end with Shrinate clearing the air. Shrinate has already clarified that someone who has access to her account made the post, Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit said at a press conference. She has said she will find out who has done it, Dikshit said. No place for such language in public discourse, the Congress has always been clear in that. Supriya ji has said whoever has done it, its a mistake. She has explained and the matter should end there, he added. Congress spokesperson Shrinate said in her defence on Monday, when the controversy erupted, that many people have access to her Facebook and Instagram accounts and one of them made the inappropriate post. She also said she had deleted the post and will take action against a parody account that is using her name.

But that had little impact. If your account is posting what a parody account posts, then it simply means that admins of both accounts are same. One has to be self-conceited, to the point of being deranged, to do so. Also, the admins must have very low opinion of you to post such offensive stuff and get away, Malviya said. Bansuri Swaraj, daughter of the late Sushma Swaraj and the partys candidate from New Delhi, said the top leadership of the Congress must apologise. Such derogatory words were used for someone who is Indias daughter and a woman. This is very shocking, and has shown the mentality of the Congress. The top leadership of the Congress should apologise for this, she told PTI. Thakur added in a statement that the remarks would be legally examined and the BJP was moving towards registering a case. Shrinate, he said, had made a big mistake as people of faith come to Mandi, which is known as Chhoti Kashi and is an abode for over 300 temples.
Exploring areas of cooperation India supports Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty, says Jaishankar





MANILA :

INDIA firmly supports the Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty and wants to explore new areas of cooperation, including in defence and security, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday, amid Manilas maritime dispute with China in the South China Sea. Jaishankars remarks came at a joint press conference with his counterpart Enrique Manalo in Manila after their meeting. Warm and productive meeting with @SecManalo of Philippines. Wide-ranging discussion on advancing ties in political, defence, security & maritime cooperation, trade & investment, infrastructure, development cooperation, education, digital, technology, culture and consular domains, Jaishankar posted on X. They also exchanged views on global, regional and multilateral issues including the Indo-Pacific, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), West Asia, Ukraine, Non-Aligned Movement and the UN. As two democracies committed to a rules-based order, look forward to intensifying our cooperation, he said. Addressing the press conference with Manalo, Jaishankar said: I take this opportunity to firmly reiterate Indias support to the Philippines for upholding its national sovereignty. As the world changes, it is essential that countries like India and the Philippines cooperate more closely to shape the emerging order, he said.

Every country has the right to uphold and enforce its national sovereignty, he said in response to a question. That is something that we have also discussed, he added. On a question on Indias plans to expand the defence cooperation with the Philippines amid development in the South China Sea, Jaishankar said: You need to look at that cooperation on its own merits. It is not necessarily linked to a particular situation. But its natural today that two countries whose trust and comfort is growing so rapidly that we will look at various new areas of cooperation. And certainly defence and security is one of them, he said. China claims most of the SCS. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counterclaims. China has deployed hundreds of Coast Guard vessels throughout the South China Sea to patrol what it considers its waters, despite a 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling in a case brought by the Philippines that said the claim had no basis under international laws. Manalo said the Philippines consistently reaffirmed the need to abide by international law and also for international rules and regulations when it comes to the maritime area. Speaking about Beijings recent activities in the South China Sea, he accused China of trying to prevent Philipino ships from supplying its troops.

India and the Philippines have a very deep interest in ensuring a free open and inclusive Indo-Pacific Ocean and in this region. And it is in this context that we are having extensive discussions regularly on defence cooperation, and security cooperation, mainly also with a view to supporting an international rules-based order, Manalo said. Jaishankar said every country has an interest in maritime security and safety. In our case probably it is more than many other countries normally would have, he said. As our relationship goes, as I pointed out it was natural to look at defence and security, he said. Indias ties with the Philippines have seen very perceptible growth in recent times, Jaishankar said. Meetings and visits are one indicator of the growing closeness between our two nations. But this is equally visible in a range of domains starting from trade and investment and extending to health and food security, to education and science and technology, defence and maritime cooperation, etc, he said, The bilateral trade crossed the USD 3 billion level last year, he said and expressed confidence that it would continue to grow. My message in the discussions with Secretary Manalo was that India, as the 5th largest economy currently, growing at about 7 per cent annually, is preparing to step up its engagement with the Philippines, Jaishankar said. The two nations are moving ahead on Quick Impact Projects in agriculture, health and capacity building. Indian companies have been active here, as much as in the digital infrastructure as in the physical one. There is considerable interest in the Indian corporate sector in stepping that up.

The growing comfort and trust between us is also reflected in the ongoing supply of rice from India as an exceptional measure, he said. As two seafaring nations of the Indo-Pacific, our maritime cooperation holds great potential. Last year, we signed agreements on enhanced maritime cooperation and white shipping, Jaishankar said. Jaishankar said he and his counterpart discussed our shared interests in ensuring maritime safety, given that our two countries contribute so much to the global shipping industry. The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is particularly important in it as the constitution of the seas, Jaishankar said. All parties must adhere to it in its entirety, both in letter and in spirit, he said. He also briefed him about the Indian Navys deployments in the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea to counter ongoing threats. And he himself has spoken about the rescue of MV True Confidence by one of our ships, INS Kolkata. And there have been some other instances, I think since then, MV, Lila Norfolk, as well which involved some crew from the Philippines, Jaishankar said. The partnership between India and the Philippines also has a larger context in terms of the engagement with the ASEAN, Jaishankar said. We look forward to its steering India-ASEAN cooperation, especially in regard to reviewing the trade agreement, building connectivity and deepening people-to-people contacts, he said.

As a nation deeply invested in this region because of its Act East policy and Indo-Pacific vision, India follows all developments with great interest, Jaishankar said. We are strongly supportive of ASEANs centrality, cohesion and unity. We are also convinced that the progress and prosperity of this region are best served by staunch adherence to a rules-based order, Jaishankar said. We are also both societies that contribute significantly to the global workplace. We would like to see more resilient supply chains and trusted digital partnerships, Jaishankar said. Our activities serve to strengthen the cause of the Global South in different domains. Our commitment to democratic values is deep and abiding. We are both nations who value the autonomy of decision-making and favour a multipolar world, with a multipolar Asia at its core, he said. These convergences, based on an expanding bilateral partnership, today drive the upward trajectory of ties. Jaishankar said as the two nations move towards the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, he is confident that there is much more that awaits them.
From anti-graft crusader to kingpin of liquor cartel





By Deepika Bhan

In his 13-year political career, which began with the massive cause of delivering transparent, honest and corruption-free governance, Kejriwal has hobnobbed with all those whom he called corrupt and adopted policies that gave impetus to corruption. The law will take its own course, but the people who believed that the Jhadu will do the cleaning in the system are feeling betrayed today.

DELHI Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, once a prominent anti-corruption crusader, is now the kingpin of liquor cartel as per the Enforcement Directorate, which is probing the case. The downfall is not shocking as one by one, his close associates have fallen in the net. The denial of any relief by the courts has added to the public perception that there is something sinister. Questions are being raised about his commitment to fight corruption and his betrayal of the jhadu (broom). The jhadu is the election symbol of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). According to the party, it signifies dignity of labour and commitment to clean the filth which has permeated the government and legislature. But today, many of the party leaders and its supremo have been arrested on charges of doing the exact opposite. His supporters and the Opposition leaders are crying foul. His guru, Anna Hazare, however, had raised the red flag a long time ago. In 2022, Hazare wrote a letter to CM Kejriwal saying that he was intoxicated by power. The guru was pained by the AAP Governments liquor policy and he knew that his protege was taking a wrong turn. A massive mandate in Delhi Assembly, not once but twice -- 2015 (with 67 seats) and 2020 (with 62 seats) -- can be any politicians dream. Absoluteness has its own hazards and it did create a perfect condition for Kejriwal to be the be-all end-all in his party.

While outside AAP forums, he swore by democracy and honesty, within the party, he stymied criticism. He shrewdly plucked out the contrarian voices that did not have a place in his scheme of things. Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav were forced out of the party in 2015. His other partners, Ashutosh, Kumar Vishwas, Kapil Mishra and others, too, were made to bow out. In fact, Kapil Mishra, who was sacked from the post of Delhi Water Minister in 2017, accused Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of accepting a bribe of Rs two crore in cash at his official residence from the then Health Minister Satyendra Jain. This was the first graft allegation against Kejriwal, and that too from a former Cabinet colleague. The Shunglu Committee formed by former L-G Najeeb Jung in 2017, accused the AAP Government of gross misuse of power. It was on this committees report that Anna Hazare had expressed that Kejriwal has dashed all his hopes. AAPs deviation from its core principles was evident soon after Kejriwals second term in 2015. The partys top 14 leaders, including the Chief Minister, Ministers and MLAs, have been arrested on different charges. In 2015, the then Law Minister Jitender Singh Tomar was arrested for allegedly submitting forged law degree while filing his nomination for the Assembly polls.

In May 2022, Satyendar Jain was arrested by ED in an alleged money laundering case. Delhi Waqf Board chairman Amanatullah Khan was arrested in connection with a complaint alleging illegal appointments and unauthorised renting out of Waqf Board properties in the city in September 2022. And over the years, charges of wrongdoings in many of his welfare schemes have also surfaced from time to time. However, the biggest scam has been the excise policy case. The then Deputy CM Manish Sisodia was arrested after an eight-hour questioning by the Central Bureau of Investigation in the case. The Enforcement Directorate, in 2023, arrested AAPs Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, in the money laundering case linked to the investigation into the liquor policy. And now, finally the CM himself, who is said to be the kingpin of the excise policy scam, finds himself in lock-up. Kejriwal has no one except perhaps himself to blame for the situation that he is in today. The bid to roll-out an ultra-fast political flight to the nations top political post has perhaps crash-landed him badly. Soon after his Delhi win, Kejriwal wanted to quickly encroach the political space in other states.

His plans to rise to the national scene instantly became clear when in 2014, he unsuccessfully fought against the then PM candidate Narendra Modi in Varanasi. Kejriwal also put in all his efforts in Gujarat and Goa Assembly elections, but in both places, he had to eat humble pie. Punjab, however, gave him another big win. In his 13-year political career, which began with the massive cause of delivering transparent, honest and corruption-free governance, Kejriwal has hobnobbed with all those whom he called corrupt and adopted policies that gave impetus to corruption. He joined hands with those whom he had earlier promised to send behind bars. He even took pledges, but soon broke them when he entered into alliance with Congress in 2013. His associations with those whom he had red-flagged earlier, has earned him the title of being politically dishonest. On March 21, late at night, when Kejriwal was arrested, his journey from an anti-graft crusader to a kingpin of liquor scam and CM behind bars was unprecedented. The law will take its own course, but the people who believed that the Jhadu will do the cleaning in the system are feeling betrayed today.
KEEP RESTRAINT





EVEN as parliamentary and legislative elections to a few States draw nearer, the political discourse is threatening to get dirtier. This is something the nation just does not need at this or at any other stage of our collective decision as to who will lead the Government. This awareness pushes us to appeal for restraint on part of the political community as a whole. This appeal also is to the media as a whole to maintain stricter restraint what it proposes to write or telecast or broadcast in the following weeks. The trigger for this appeal comes from some of the dirty comments and posts available on social media platforms of some political leaders about the candidates a few parties have chosen for the impending elections. Some of those comments are outright filthy and promote a culture of shamelessness. This is the last thing any civilised nation can expect to have. For, the core value of a sophisticated human society is dignity and honour of human individual engaged in whatever pursuit. Unfortunately, some social media posts about a few candidates throw to the wind all caution and care for human honour and dignity and attempt to portray those persons in the dirtiest of light. This is reprehensible, to say the least, and calls for complete restraint on the part of the political community across dividing lines.

It should be the basic commitment of the whole political community across divides to a fine discourse based on ideas or ideals or even ideologies. There may be references, all right, to issues such as corruption or compromises with larger public interest. But none of these should prompt anybody to cross limits of decency and decorum and target individual candidates in the filthiest words and pictures. When the national spokesperson of a major political party was lambasted for having made some fully filthy posts, she hurriedly explained that those posts were the outcome some hacking of her account and that she could not indulge in such misdeeds. But if one person has made such a clarification, many others have chosen to keep quiet. Their respective political oragnisations, too, do not seem to have taken any punitive or restrictive action against them. This is not the political culture the country would ever bargain for. Even as we realise that the current pre-election mood of the political community is in a no-holds-barred mode, we also insist that there is no justification whatsoever for losing a sense of control and restraint on statements and their tone and tenor.

Hence this appeal to the good sense of the entire political community, no matter to which side of the divide people or parties may belong. Though there is law to take care of such violations of human dignity during elections, the political community should commit itself to maintain a high sense of restraint on its actions and utterances -- so that the quality of political discourse remains fine and polished standing on the foundation of respect for others. This has been our standard practice to issue such appeals before every electoral battle. But this time, we realise that the battle can get the murkiest if not kept in check right from now. We have no other mode at hand to make such an appeal except spelling the issue out as accurately as possible. Hence this appeal. We are sure, the leaders of the political pyramid of the country will realise their sense of duty to maintain civilisational finesse in high order by keeping the political discourse at its purest and finest. That will raise the respect of the international as well as internal communities for India as a nation and as a civilisation with long and glorious history and tradition.
Lack of action onsafety report madetwo years ago





Staff Reporter

Two years after a comprehensive survey by Traffic Police suggested vital safety measures for Nagpurs flyovers, the authorities are yet to implement important changes leaving commuters at risk. The urgency for action comes in wake of this accident on Pachpaoli bridge on Monday. In October 2022, the Traffic Police had meticulously surveyed 30 flyovers across the city and had proposed critical interventions to curb fatalities, particularly in light of two major accidents on Sakkardara and Shaheed Gowari flyovers in September 2022, which together claimed five lives.

The suggested preventive measures encompassed the installation of metal fencing or sound barriers along parapet walls, deployment of CCTV cameras, placement of rumble strips, installation of blinkers, and ensuring proper illumination. These recommendations aimed to address the alarming rise in fatal accidents, with a staggering 23 reported from 2020 to 2022, exposing the dangerous condition of city's flyovers due to inadequate maintenance by construction agencies. In September 2022, two particularly harrowing accidents occurred on flyovers, where riders on two-wheelers were flung off the bridges by rashly driven four-wheelers. Lives could have been spared had protective fencing been in place on the parapet walls.
Mass casualties feared Cargo ship hits key bridge in Baltimore





BALTIMORE :

IN A tragic incident, parts of a bridge in the US state of Maryland collapsed early on Tuesday morning, after being hit by a container ship, sending several vehicles into the chilly water as quoted by media reports. Mass fatalities are reportedly feared in the incident that occurred at nearly 1.30 am (US local time), with the Baltimore Fire Department saying it was searching for at least seven people believed to be in the water, CNN reported. The entire 22-member crew of the cargo ship is Indians. The response teams are working to rescue around 22 people who may have fallen into the river when the four-lane Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in what the Fire Department described as a mass casualty multi-agency incident. Two people were rescued, and it was not clear how many more might be in the waters of the busy harbour near a key port. The 1.6-mile bridge, which opened in 1977, serves as the outermost crossing of the Baltimore harbour and an essential link of Interstate-695, or the Baltimore Beltway.

All lanes closed both directions for incident on I-695 Key Bridge. Traffic is being detoured, (sic), the Maryland Transportation Authority posted on X. According to data from a maritime monitoring site and a Coast Guard officer, the ship that hit Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge was a Singaporean-flagged container ship, the DALI. The ship is around 300 metre (984 feet) long with a width of around 48 metre (157 feet), CNN reported, citing MarineTraffic data. The report added that the crash sent large plumes of smoke and fire into the air and video footage obtained by the channel showed the boat heading toward one of the bridges support columns before colliding with it. The Baltimore Fire Department told CNN that investigators will also assess the condition of the bridge before its collapse. Governor Wes Moore declared a State of Emergency and said he was working to get federal resources deployed.

The FBI was on the scene, but Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said terrorism was not suspected. President Joe Biden was briefed. Authorities said a crew of unknown size was working on the bridge at the time of the collapse and that sonar had detected cars in the water, which is about 50 feet (15 meters) deep. The water temperature was about 47 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius) before dawn Tuesday, according to a buoy that collects data for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Earlier, Kevin Cartwright, director of communications for the Baltimore Fire Department, told The Associated Press that several vehicles were on the bridge at the time of the collapse, including one the size of a tractor-trailer truck. The bridge came down in the middle of night when traffic would be lighter than during the day when thousands of cars traverse the span. As the sun rose on Tuesday, jagged remnants of the bridge were illuminated jutting up from the waters surface. The on-ramp ended abruptly where the span once began. Opened in 1977, the bridge is named for the writer of The Star-Spangled Banner. The Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic.
Enterprise Fire Chief Christopher Davis Thursday accepted a check for $11,000 from Trent Dillard on behalf of the Alabama Power Foundation for fire prevention and safety education materials.

Simply put, this grant has the ability to help us save lives, Chief Christopher Davis said. Anytime we can reach both children and adults to improve their fire safety knowledge, and get them excited about it, thats a win. This grant allows us to create memorable training experiences for our citizens.

The funds will be used to purchase an inflatable fire safety training house with a realistic setting and updated technology to explain fire behavior, fire protection and fire escape in a safe setting.

Our goal is to make the instruction an unforgettable experience that people will remember and use to develop lifelong safety habits, Davis said. We plan to use this safety house at school visits, local festivals and other community events.

In recent years, the Enterprise Fire Departments long-used fire safety trainer deteriorated to the point that it could no longer be used, forcing firefighters to depend on lecture-style training, without hands-on experience.

While the presence of our firefighters and fire trucks does create some excitement, this inflatable fire safety house creates a fun, bouncy-house-like atmosphere where visitors can enter a four-room setting simulating a living room, bedroom and other areas of a home. They will have visual learning on topics like burning candles in the home, cooking safely, smoke alarms, space heater safety, how to make an exit plan, and the importance of practicing those exit drills.

Davis said he is grateful to all of those involved in the project that will serve Enterprise for years to come. We are grateful for the Alabama Power Foundation for awarding us this grant to allow us to better serve our community. Id also like to give a special thank you to our grant writer, Kay Kirkland, for her role in helping us secure funding that is sure to save lives in our community.
REDSTONE ARSENAL  Active-duty soldiers can compete to join the ranks of an elite Army group comprising 19 astronauts and payload specialists who have been selected since 1978 to serve at NASA.

The Army will convene a candidate board to select soldiers for nomination to NASA. Although Army astronauts have historically been commissioned officers, the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Commands NASA Detachment encourages any active-duty soldier who meets the basic requirements to apply, regardless of rank or military occupational specialty.

There is absolutely no impediment to a junior-enlisted Soldier, non-commissioned officer, or warrant officer applying to become an Army astronaut, so long as they can meet NASA and the Armys education and other requirements, said Lt. Col. Nicholas Holtz, executive officer of the NASA Detachment.

If selected by NASA and the Army, astronaut candidates will undergo a rigorous two-year program to prepare them for spaceflight. They will be assigned to the NASA Detachment at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. Commissioned officers will also become FA-40C space operations officers.

Soldiers bring a unique and highly valued skillset to the astronaut office, said Col. Anne McClain, an Army astronaut and commander of the NASA Detachment. Army astronauts provide Army space expertise and leadership to low-earth orbit and lunar spaceflight missions, NASA programs of record and deep space exploration initiatives. This is why it is important to reach the greatest number of potential astronaut candidates within our ranks for NASAs next astronaut class.

The application process to become an astronaut candidate is strict. All applicants, military or civilian, must apply directly to NASA, per their announcement via www.usajobs.gov. Basic eligibility criteria for all astronauts can be found at www.nasa.gov/astronauts/.

Active-duty soldiers must also submit their applications to the Army Astronaut Candidate Board through the Army/NASA astronaut liaison, Keira Hardy (keira.d.hardy.civ@army.mil). Those applications must include copies of the resume submitted to usajobs.gov, current Soldier Talent Profile, the soldiers last Army Combat Fitness Test card, and their last two evaluation reports (or counseling statements for E-4 and below).

Applicants may also submit any other evaluation report that covers pertinent experience they would like to highlight, such as significant leadership time, time in combat, etc. The board will not accept letters of recommendation.

Its vitally important that Soldiers interested in applying to become an Army astronaut thoroughly review and comply with NASAs requirements, as well as the Armys military personnel message to have their applications in order and submitted before the April 2 deadline, said Keira Hardy, Army astronaut liaison at the Johnson Space Center. Both the Army and NASA have very specific guidelines for applicants, and failure to meet those guidelines could be the difference between being considered or eliminated right from the start.

For further information on Army-specific requirements, see MILPER message 24-072. Deadline for applying is April 2 although soldiers are encouraged to submit applications as soon as feasible.

Soldiers currently serving in the Army Reserve or Army National Guard who are interested in applying are encouraged to engage with their chain of command about their application and potential selection.
Trust Co of the South bought a new position in shares of Sonoco Products (NYSE:SON  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm bought 14,894 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $832,000.

Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. State Street Corp lifted its holdings in Sonoco Products by 13.4% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 8,240,829 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $515,546,000 after buying an additional 972,157 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in Sonoco Products during the 4th quarter worth about $53,429,000. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Sonoco Products during the 1st quarter worth about $51,618,000. Osaic Holdings Inc. lifted its holdings in Sonoco Products by 1,144.2% during the 2nd quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 710,318 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $3,684,000 after buying an additional 653,229 shares during the last quarter. Finally, FMR LLC lifted its holdings in Sonoco Products by 1,231.2% during the 3rd quarter. FMR LLC now owns 694,263 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $37,733,000 after buying an additional 642,109 shares during the last quarter. 77.69% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages have issued reports on SON. StockNews.com raised Sonoco Products from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, November 28th. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their target price on Sonoco Products from $58.00 to $56.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, February 20th. Finally, TheStreet downgraded Sonoco Products from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a report on Wednesday, February 14th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $63.00.

Sonoco Products Stock Performance

SON stock traded down $0.12 during trading on Tuesday, hitting $56.66. The company had a trading volume of 507,294 shares, compared to its average volume of 444,105. The firm has a market cap of $5.56 billion, a PE ratio of 11.83, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.15 and a beta of 0.69. Sonoco Products has a 1-year low of $49.98 and a 1-year high of $63.74. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $56.96 and a 200-day moving average price of $55.49. The company has a quick ratio of 1.10, a current ratio of 1.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.25.

Sonoco Products (NYSE:SON  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 15th. The industrial products company reported $1.02 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.04 by ($0.02). The company had revenue of $1.64 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.61 billion. Sonoco Products had a net margin of 7.00% and a return on equity of 22.42%. The businesss revenue was down 2.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.27 EPS. On average, analysts expect that Sonoco Products will post 5.25 earnings per share for the current year.

Sonoco Products Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 8th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, February 28th were given a dividend of $0.51 per share. This represents a $2.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.60%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, February 27th. Sonoco Productss payout ratio is 42.50%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Sonoco Products news, insider Jeffrey S. Tomaszewski sold 10,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $57.53, for a total transaction of $604,065.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 13,456 shares in the company, valued at approximately $774,123.68. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In related news, insider Russell K. Grissett sold 2,039 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $56.06, for a total value of $114,306.34. Following the sale, the insider now owns 11,988 shares in the company, valued at approximately $672,047.28. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Jeffrey S. Tomaszewski sold 10,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $57.53, for a total value of $604,065.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 13,456 shares in the company, valued at approximately $774,123.68. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 13,076 shares of company stock worth $749,002. Company insiders own 0.51% of the companys stock.

Sonoco Products Profile

(Free Report)

Sonoco Products Company, together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, and sells various engineered and sustainable packaging products in North and South America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. The company operates Consumer Packaging and Industrial Paper Packaging segments. The Consumer Packaging segment offers round and shaped rigid paper, steel, and plastic containers; metal and peelable membrane ends, closures, and components; thermoformed plastic trays and enclosures; and high-barrier flexible packaging products.

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Trust Co of the South acquired a new stake in shares of General Dynamics Co. (NYSE:GD  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 1,380 shares of the aerospace companys stock, valued at approximately $358,000.

Several other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the business. Schechter Investment Advisors LLC lifted its stake in General Dynamics by 1.1% in the 4th quarter. Schechter Investment Advisors LLC now owns 4,591 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $1,192,000 after acquiring an additional 49 shares in the last quarter. Heartwood Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of General Dynamics during the 4th quarter worth approximately $233,000. Kingdom Financial Group LLC. increased its position in shares of General Dynamics by 5.3% during the 4th quarter. Kingdom Financial Group LLC. now owns 1,780 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $462,000 after purchasing an additional 90 shares during the last quarter. Jamison Private Wealth Management Inc. increased its position in shares of General Dynamics by 1.9% during the 4th quarter. Jamison Private Wealth Management Inc. now owns 6,764 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $1,756,000 after purchasing an additional 126 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Kingswood Wealth Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of General Dynamics by 30.2% during the 4th quarter. Kingswood Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 10,780 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $2,799,000 after purchasing an additional 2,500 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 86.08% of the companys stock.

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General Dynamics Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:GD traded down $0.60 during midday trading on Tuesday, hitting $278.38. The stock had a trading volume of 567,670 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,068,257. The company has a market capitalization of $76.27 billion, a P/E ratio of 23.16, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.79 and a beta of 0.68. The company has a quick ratio of 0.92, a current ratio of 1.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.41. The companys 50-day moving average price is $269.10 and its 200-day moving average price is $251.11. General Dynamics Co. has a fifty-two week low of $202.35 and a fifty-two week high of $284.75.

General Dynamics Increases Dividend

General Dynamics ( NYSE:GD Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The aerospace company reported $3.64 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $3.68 by ($0.04). The company had revenue of $11.67 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.39 billion. General Dynamics had a net margin of 7.84% and a return on equity of 16.61%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 7.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $3.58 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts predict that General Dynamics Co. will post 14.6 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, May 10th. Investors of record on Friday, April 12th will be issued a dividend of $1.42 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, April 11th. This is a positive change from General Dynamicss previous quarterly dividend of $1.32. This represents a $5.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.04%. General Dynamicss payout ratio is 47.25%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on GD. StockNews.com cut shares of General Dynamics from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, February 3rd. UBS Group lifted their price objective on shares of General Dynamics from $286.00 to $296.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, January 29th. Citigroup lifted their price objective on shares of General Dynamics from $283.00 to $300.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Alembic Global Advisors cut shares of General Dynamics from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and set a $296.00 price objective for the company. in a research note on Monday, January 29th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $300.00 price objective on shares of General Dynamics in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $271.69.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on GD

Insider Activity at General Dynamics

In other General Dynamics news, EVP Mark C. Roualet sold 73,330 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, January 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $264.75, for a total transaction of $19,414,117.50. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 149,205 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $39,502,023.75. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, EVP Mark C. Roualet sold 73,330 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, January 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $264.75, for a total value of $19,414,117.50. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 149,205 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $39,502,023.75. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CEO Phebe N. Novakovic sold 32,355 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, January 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $264.31, for a total transaction of $8,551,750.05. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 773,977 shares in the company, valued at $204,569,860.87. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 1.52% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

General Dynamics Company Profile

(Free Report)

General Dynamics Corporation operates as an aerospace and defense company worldwide. It operates through four segments: Aerospace, Marine Systems, Combat Systems, and Technologies. The Aerospace segment produces and sells business jets; and offers aircraft maintenance and repair, management, aircraft-on-ground support and completion, charter, staffing, and fixed-base operator services.

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Patriot Investment Management Group Inc. bought a new position in shares of iShares Global Materials ETF (NYSEARCA:MXI  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 2,300 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $201,000.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Bank of Montreal Can bought a new stake in iShares Global Materials ETF in the second quarter valued at approximately $26,000. Sunbelt Securities Inc. bought a new stake in iShares Global Materials ETF in the first quarter valued at approximately $72,000. Penserra Capital Management LLC increased its stake in shares of iShares Global Materials ETF by 21.3% during the first quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 1,620 shares of the companys stock worth $152,000 after purchasing an additional 284 shares during the period. Citigroup Inc. bought a new position in shares of iShares Global Materials ETF during the first quarter worth approximately $152,000. Finally, Tyler Stone Wealth Management bought a new position in shares of iShares Global Materials ETF during the second quarter worth approximately $135,000.

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iShares Global Materials ETF Stock Performance

Shares of NYSEARCA MXI traded up $0.62 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $88.82. 1,639 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 10,673. The firm has a market capitalization of $315.31 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.83 and a beta of 1.01. iShares Global Materials ETF has a 52 week low of $74.24 and a 52 week high of $89.01. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $84.11 and its 200 day simple moving average is $82.11.

iShares Global Materials ETF Profile

iShares Global Materials ETF, formerly iShares S&P Global Materials Sector Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the S&P Global Materials Sector Index (the Index).

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Twin Peaks Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:AGG  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The institutional investor purchased 7,439 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $738,000.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Abundance Wealth Counselors acquired a new position in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $469,000. Acorn Financial Advisory Services Inc. ADV raised its position in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 34.0% in the 4th quarter. Acorn Financial Advisory Services Inc. ADV now owns 234,407 shares of the companys stock valued at $23,265,000 after purchasing an additional 59,435 shares in the last quarter. Aprio Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 4.8% in the 4th quarter. Aprio Wealth Management LLC now owns 141,645 shares of the companys stock valued at $14,058,000 after acquiring an additional 6,452 shares during the last quarter. Towneley Capital Management Inc DE bought a new stake in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $1,120,000. Finally, Fort Washington Investment Advisors Inc. OH increased its holdings in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 8.8% in the 4th quarter. Fort Washington Investment Advisors Inc. OH now owns 2,744 shares of the companys stock valued at $272,000 after acquiring an additional 223 shares during the last quarter. 83.63% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Trading Up 0.1 %

Shares of NYSEARCA AGG opened at $97.74 on Wednesday. iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF has a twelve month low of $91.58 and a twelve month high of $100.98. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $97.71 and a 200-day simple moving average of $96.35.

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Company Profile

IShares are index funds that are bought and sold like common stocks on national securities exchanges as well as certain foreign exchanges. iShares are attractive because of their relatively low cost, tax efficiency and trading flexibility. Investors can purchase and sell shares through any brokerage firm, financial advisor, or online broker, and hold the funds in any type of brokerage account.

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ABN AMRO Bank (OTCMKTS:AAVMY  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant increase in short interest during the month of March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 24,200 shares, an increase of 310.2% from the February 29th total of 5,900 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 44,800 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.5 days.

ABN AMRO Bank Trading Up 0.8 %

AAVMY traded up $0.14 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $16.64. 3,954 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 20,267. ABN AMRO Bank has a 52 week low of $12.71 and a 52 week high of $17.40. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $15.53 and a two-hundred day moving average of $14.60.

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About ABN AMRO Bank

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ABN AMRO Bank N.V. provides various banking products and financial services to retail, private, and business clients in the Netherlands and internationally. It operates through three segments: Personal & Business Banking, Wealth Management, and Corporate Banking. The company provides savings and deposits products; investment and insurance products; and consumer, personal, car, and home improvement loan.

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Greif (NYSE:GEF  Get Free Report) and CCL Industries (OTCMKTS:CCDBF  Get Free Report) are both industrial products companies, but which is the superior stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, profitability, earnings, valuation, dividends, institutional ownership and risk.

Dividends

Greif pays an annual dividend of $2.08 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.1%. CCL Industries pays an annual dividend of $1.02 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.0%. Greif pays out 36.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. CCL Industries pays out 18.6% 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. Greif has increased its dividend for 3 consecutive years. Greif is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

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Insider & Institutional Ownership

45.7% of Greif shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 37.2% of CCL Industries shares are held by institutional investors. 3.1% of Greif shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Greif $5.22 billion 0.60 $359.20 million $5.78 11.57 CCL Industries N/A N/A N/A $5.45 9.46

This table compares Greif and CCL Industries gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Greif has higher revenue and earnings than CCL Industries. CCL Industries is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Greif, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Profitability

This table compares Greif and CCL Industries net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Greif 6.53% 18.65% 6.23% CCL Industries N/A N/A N/A

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for Greif and CCL Industries, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Greif 0 1 2 0 2.67 CCL Industries 0 1 0 0 2.00

Greif presently has a consensus price target of $79.33, suggesting a potential upside of 18.64%. CCL Industries has a consensus price target of $77.67, suggesting a potential upside of 50.58%. Given CCL Industries higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe CCL Industries is more favorable than Greif.

Summary

Greif beats CCL Industries on 12 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Greif

(Get Free Report)

Greif, Inc. engages in the production and sale of industrial packaging products and services worldwide. The company operates through Global Industrial Packaging; Paper Packaging & Services; and Land Management segments. The Global Industrial Packaging segment produces and sells industrial packaging products, including steel, fiber, and plastic drums; rigid and flexible intermediate bulk containers; closure systems for industrial packaging products; transit protection products; water bottles, and remanufactured and reconditioned industrial containers; and various services, such as container life cycle management, filling, logistics, warehousing, and other packaging services to chemicals, paints and pigments, food and beverage, petroleum, industrial coatings, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, mineral product, and other industries. The Paper Packaging & Services segment produces and sells containerboards, corrugated sheets and containers, and other corrugated and specialty products to customers in the packaging, automotive, food, and building products markets; and produces and sells coated and uncoated recycled paperboard, and recycled fiber. This segment's corrugated container products are used to ship various products, such as home appliances, small machinery, grocery products, automotive components, books, and furniture, as well as various other applications. The Land Management segment engages in harvesting and regeneration of timber properties; and sale of timberland and special use properties. As of October 31, 2023, this segment owned approximately 175,000 acres of timber properties in the southeastern United States. The company was formerly known as Greif Bros. Corporation and changed its name to Greif, Inc. in 2001. Greif, Inc. was founded in 1877 and is headquartered in Delaware, Ohio.

About CCL Industries

(Get Free Report)

CCL Industries Inc. manufactures and sells labels, consumer printable media products, technology-driven label solutions, polymer banknote substrates, and specialty films in Canada, the United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and New Zealand. It operates through four segments: CCL, Avery, Checkpoint, and Innovia. The CCL segment offers pressure sensitive and extruded film materials for decorative, instructional, security, and functional applications in the consumer packaging, healthcare, chemicals, consumer durables, electronic device, and automotive markets. This segment also provides extruded and labeled plastic tubes, aluminum aerosols and specialty bottles, folded instructional leaflets, precision decorated and die cut components, electronic displays, polymer banknote substrate, and other complementary products and services. The Avery segment offers printable media products, including address and shipping labels, marketing and product identification labels, indexes and dividers, business cards, and name badges supported by customized software solutions; and organizational products, such as binders, sheet protectors, and writing instruments. This segment also provides direct to consumer digitally imaged media products, such as labels, business cards, name badges, and family oriented identification labels supported by unique web-enabled e-commerce URLs. The Checkpoint segment offers technology-driven loss-prevention, inventory management, and labelling solutions, including radio frequency and radio-frequency identification solutions to retail and apparel industries. The Innovia segment provides specialty, high-performance, multi-layer, and surface engineered biaxially oriented polypropylene films for pressure sensitive label materials, flexible packaging, and consumer packaged goods industries. CCL Industries Inc. was founded in 1951 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

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BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust (NYSE:BFZ  Get Free Report) major shareholder Saba Capital Management, L.P. acquired 23,774 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 25th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $11.77 per share, with a total value of $279,819.98. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider now owns 5,185,006 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $61,027,520.62. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Large shareholders that own at least 10% of a companys stock are required to disclose their sales and purchases with the SEC.

Saba Capital Management, L.P. also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Thursday, March 21st, Saba Capital Management, L.P. purchased 14,317 shares of BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust stock. The shares were bought at an average cost of $11.68 per share, with a total value of $167,222.56.

On Tuesday, March 12th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. acquired 35,703 shares of BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust stock. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $11.95 per share, with a total value of $426,650.85.

BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust Stock Performance

Shares of BFZ traded up $0.03 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $11.81. The companys stock had a trading volume of 7,988 shares, compared to its average volume of 55,857. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $11.78 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $11.25. BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust has a 1-year low of $9.86 and a 1-year high of $12.31.

BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust Dividend Announcement

Hedge Funds Weigh In On BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust

The business also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.051 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 14th. This represents a $0.61 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.18%.

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Blue Bell Private Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in shares of BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust in the 4th quarter valued at $33,000. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC bought a new stake in BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust during the 2nd quarter worth $141,000. Quarry LP bought a new stake in BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust during the 2nd quarter worth $149,000. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC grew its position in BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust by 18.2% during the 3rd quarter. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC now owns 13,000 shares of the companys stock worth $134,000 after acquiring an additional 2,000 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Envestnet Asset Management Inc. grew its position in BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust by 76.1% during the 3rd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 18,514 shares of the companys stock worth $191,000 after acquiring an additional 8,000 shares during the last quarter.

BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust Company Profile

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BlackRock California Municipal Income Trust is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc It is managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. The fund invests in fixed income markets. It invests primarily in investment grade municipal bonds that are exempt from regular federal and California income taxes.

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Intellicheck, Inc. (NYSE:IDN  Free Report)  Equities research analysts at HC Wainwright issued their FY2025 earnings per share estimates for shares of Intellicheck in a research note issued on Friday, March 22nd. HC Wainwright analyst S. Buck forecasts that the company will post earnings per share of $0.09 for the year. HC Wainwright currently has a Buy rating and a $5.00 target price on the stock. The consensus estimate for Intellichecks current full-year earnings is ($0.05) per share.

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A number of other research analysts have also weighed in on IDN. DA Davidson reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $5.00 price target on shares of Intellicheck in a research note on Friday, March 22nd. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Intellicheck in a research note on Wednesday, March 20th. They issued a buy rating on the stock.

Intellicheck Trading Down 11.1 %

Shares of Intellicheck stock opened at $3.49 on Monday. The firm has a market capitalization of $67.43 million, a PE ratio of -34.85 and a beta of 1.68. Intellicheck has a twelve month low of $1.56 and a twelve month high of $4.25. The firms 50-day moving average price is $1.86 and its 200 day moving average price is $1.93.

Intellicheck (NYSE:IDN  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 21st. The company reported $0.04 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $5.18 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.16 million. Intellicheck had a negative net margin of 10.47% and a negative return on equity of 10.77%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of IDN. B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. purchased a new position in Intellicheck in the 4th quarter worth approximately $25,000. UBS Group AG lifted its stake in Intellicheck by 122.1% in the 3rd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 11,947 shares of the companys stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 6,567 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. purchased a new position in Intellicheck in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $32,000. Squarepoint Ops LLC purchased a new position in Intellicheck in the 1st quarter worth approximately $32,000. Finally, Prudential Financial Inc. purchased a new position in Intellicheck in the 1st quarter worth approximately $34,000. 42.79% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Intellicheck

(Get Free Report)

Intellicheck, Inc, a technology company, develops, integrates, and markets threat identification and identity authentication solutions primarily in the United States. The company offers solutions for bank and retail fraud prevention, law enforcement threat identification, and mobile and handheld access control and security systems.

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Bunker Hill Mining Corp. (OTCMKTS:BHLL  Get Free Report) was the target of a large increase in short interest in March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 34,800 shares, an increase of 8,600.0% from the February 29th total of 400 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 423,800 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Bunker Hill Mining Stock Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS BHLL remained flat at $0.10 during trading hours on Wednesday. The company had a trading volume of 172,738 shares, compared to its average volume of 165,719. The companys 50 day moving average price is $0.08 and its 200-day moving average price is $0.09. Bunker Hill Mining has a 1-year low of $0.07 and a 1-year high of $0.22.

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About Bunker Hill Mining

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Further Reading

Bunker Hill Mining Corp., a mineral exploration company, engages in the acquisition, development, and mining of mineral properties in Canada and the United States. It focuses on exploring for zinc, lead, and silver ores. It holds an option agreement to acquire interest in the Bunker Hill mine located in the Silver Valley, Idaho.

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Courier Capital LLC grew its stake in shares of The Southern Company (NYSE:SO  Free Report) by 2.9% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 35,091 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 984 shares during the quarter. Courier Capital LLCs holdings in Southern were worth $2,461,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in shares of Southern during the 4th quarter worth approximately $435,979,000. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Southern during the 4th quarter worth approximately $369,131,000. Ameriprise Financial Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Southern by 38.5% during the 3rd quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 7,547,188 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $488,461,000 after acquiring an additional 2,096,988 shares in the last quarter. Imprint Wealth LLC raised its holdings in shares of Southern by 5,840.2% during the 2nd quarter. Imprint Wealth LLC now owns 1,949,392 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $194,939,000 after acquiring an additional 1,916,575 shares in the last quarter. Finally, FMR LLC raised its holdings in shares of Southern by 5.0% during the 3rd quarter. FMR LLC now owns 38,906,760 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,518,045,000 after acquiring an additional 1,838,857 shares in the last quarter. 64.10% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, insider David P. Poroch sold 10,099 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, January 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $69.96, for a total value of $706,526.04. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 28,691 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,007,222.36. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other news, EVP Christopher Cummiskey sold 899 shares of Southern stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $67.06, for a total value of $60,286.94. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 22,502 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,508,984.12. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, insider David P. Poroch sold 10,099 shares of Southern stock in a transaction on Wednesday, January 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $69.96, for a total value of $706,526.04. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 28,691 shares in the company, valued at $2,007,222.36. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 25,998 shares of company stock valued at $1,806,063 over the last three months. 0.37% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

SO has been the topic of several recent research reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on Southern from $69.00 to $72.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a report on Wednesday, November 29th. Barclays dropped their price target on Southern from $68.00 to $67.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 17th. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on Southern from $75.00 to $72.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, February 16th. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price target on Southern from $75.00 to $72.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, February 16th. Finally, Citigroup initiated coverage on shares of Southern in a research note on Friday, December 8th. They issued a buy rating and a $82.00 target price on the stock. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $73.46.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Southern

Southern Trading Up 1.6 %

SO traded up $1.14 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $70.41. 933,634 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,548,244. The firm has a market capitalization of $76.82 billion, a PE ratio of 19.09, a PEG ratio of 4.36 and a beta of 0.49. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $68.42 and a 200 day moving average price of $68.82. The Southern Company has a 52-week low of $61.56 and a 52-week high of $75.80. The company has a quick ratio of 0.56, a current ratio of 0.77 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.62.

Southern (NYSE:SO  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, February 15th. The utilities provider reported $0.64 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.59 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $6.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.90 billion. Southern had a net margin of 15.79% and a return on equity of 11.40%. The companys quarterly revenue was down 14.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company posted $0.26 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that The Southern Company will post 4 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Southern Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 6th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, February 20th were given a dividend of $0.70 per share. This represents a $2.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.98%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, February 16th. Southerns dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 77.14%.

Southern Profile

(Free Report)

The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations.

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Cultivar Capital Inc. bought a new stake in Exxon Mobil Co. (NYSE:XOM  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund bought 9,449 shares of the oil and gas companys stock, valued at approximately $945,000. Exxon Mobil makes up approximately 0.8% of Cultivar Capital Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 11th largest holding.

Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Intrepid Capital Management Inc. grew its stake in 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 worth $850,000 after buying an additional 92 shares during the last quarter. Traynor Capital Management Inc. grew its position in 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 acquiring an additional 94 shares during the last quarter. Money Concepts Capital Corp increased its holdings in 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 valued at $367,000 after purchasing an additional 95 shares in the last quarter. Defined Wealth Management LLC raised its position in Exxon Mobil by 2.4% in the 3rd quarter. Defined Wealth Management LLC now owns 4,051 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $476,000 after purchasing an additional 96 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fluent Financial LLC raised its position in Exxon Mobil by 2.8% in the 3rd quarter. Fluent Financial LLC now owns 3,610 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $424,000 after purchasing an additional 97 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 61.80% of the companys stock.

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Exxon Mobil Trading Up 0.5 %

NYSE XOM traded up $0.60 on Wednesday, reaching $114.39. The company had a trading volume of 1,814,955 shares, compared to its average volume of 18,306,650. Exxon Mobil Co. has a 52 week low of $95.77 and a 52 week high of $120.70. The stocks 50 day moving average is $104.65 and its 200-day moving average is $105.90. 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 stock has a market cap of $453.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.80, a PEG ratio of 4.20 and a beta of 0.96.

Exxon Mobil Dividend Announcement

Exxon Mobil ( NYSE:XOM Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 2nd. The oil and gas company reported $2.48 EPS for the quarter, beating 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 company had revenue of $84.34 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $90.03 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $3.40 EPS. Exxon Mobils revenue was down 11.6% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts predict that Exxon Mobil Co. will post 9.11 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, March 11th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, February 14th were given a dividend of $0.95 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, February 13th. This represents a $3.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.32%. Exxon Mobils dividend payout ratio is 42.74%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

XOM has been the subject of a number of research reports. TD Cowen upgraded Exxon Mobil from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $115.00 target price for the company in a research note on Tuesday, January 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price objective on shares of Exxon Mobil from $134.00 to $127.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, December 8th. Erste Group Bank reiterated a hold rating on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research report on Friday, December 22nd. UBS Group lowered their price target on shares of Exxon Mobil from $133.00 to $132.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and issued a $120.00 price objective on shares of Exxon Mobil in a research report on Monday, February 5th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $128.18.

View Our Latest Report on Exxon Mobil

Insider Activity

In related news, VP Darrin L. Talley sold 2,400 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $105.00, for a total transaction of $252,000.00. Following the sale, the vice president now owns 30,189 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,169,845. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. 0.04% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

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.

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Dollarama (TSE:DOL  Get Free Report) had its target price hoisted by research analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from C$114.00 to C$118.00 in a note issued to investors on Wednesday, BayStreet.CA reports. The firm currently has an outperform rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canadas target price suggests a potential upside of 13.35% from the companys previous close.

Other analysts also recently issued research reports about the stock. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price target on shares of Dollarama from C$110.00 to C$105.00 in a research report on Thursday, January 4th. National Bank Financial upgraded shares of Dollarama from a sector perform market weight rating to an outperform market weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, March 13th. Scotiabank lifted their price target on Dollarama from C$99.50 to C$104.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, December 4th. Canaccord Genuity Group upped their price objective on Dollarama from C$94.00 to C$98.00 in a research note on Tuesday, December 5th. Finally, Stifel Canada lowered Dollarama from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, December 13th. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of C$102.18.

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Dollarama Stock Up 1.0 %

Dollarama Company Profile

DOL traded up C$1.05 on Wednesday, reaching C$104.10. The companys stock had a trading volume of 184,568 shares, compared to its average volume of 460,136. Dollarama has a 1 year low of C$77.78 and a 1 year high of C$107.79. The businesss 50 day moving average is C$102.43 and its 200 day moving average is C$98.17. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1,477.71, a current ratio of 1.51 and a quick ratio of 0.08. The stock has a market cap of C$29.28 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.36, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.57.

(Get Free Report)

Dollarama Inc operates a chain of dollar stores in Canada. Its stores offer general merchandise, consumables, and seasonal products. It also sells its products through online store. The company was formerly known as Dollarama Capital Corporation and changed its name to Dollarama Inc in September 2009.

Further Reading

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Equinox Gold Corp (CVE:EQX  Get Free Report) has earned an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the six analysts that are currently covering the stock, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and three have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12 month target price among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is C$7.93.

A number of analysts recently weighed in on the stock. CIBC decreased their target price on shares of Equinox Gold from C$7.60 to C$6.80 in a report on Thursday, February 29th. TD Securities decreased their target price on shares of Equinox Gold from C$8.50 to C$8.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Friday, February 23rd. Scotiabank decreased their target price on shares of Equinox Gold from C$7.75 to C$7.00 in a report on Friday, February 23rd. BMO Capital Markets decreased their target price on shares of Equinox Gold from C$8.00 to C$7.50 in a report on Friday, February 23rd. Finally, Haywood Securities cut their price target on shares of Equinox Gold from C$11.50 to C$10.50 in a research note on Monday, February 26th.

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View Our Latest Stock Report on EQX

Equinox Gold Stock Performance

Insider Activity

CVE EQX opened at C$7.88 on Wednesday. The companys 50 day moving average is C$7.88 and its 200-day moving average is C$7.88. The company has a quick ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 64.28. The firm has a market cap of C$892.46 million and a P/E ratio of -43.54. Equinox Gold has a 12-month low of C$4.25 and a 12-month high of C$8.90.

In other news, Director Maryse Belanger sold 4,511 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, January 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$6.26, for a total value of C$28,238.86. In other Equinox Gold news, Director Maryse Belanger sold 4,511 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, January 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$6.26, for a total transaction of C$28,238.86. Also, Senior Officer Kelly Grant Boychuk sold 9,923 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, January 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$5.88, for a total transaction of C$58,347.24. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 27,992 shares of company stock valued at $169,748.

Equinox Gold Company Profile

(Get Free Report

Equinox Gold Corp. engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral deposits. The company's principal properties include the Aurizona project covering a total land package of approximately 223,160 hectares located in Maranhao State, Brazil; and the Castle Mountain property situated in California, the United States.

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Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (NYSE:HMC  Free Report)  Analysts at Zacks Research increased their FY2026 earnings estimates for Honda Motor in a research note issued on Thursday, March 21st. Zacks Research analyst R. Department now anticipates that the company will post earnings per share of $4.62 for the year, up from their prior forecast of $4.60. The consensus estimate for Honda Motors current full-year earnings is $4.20 per share.

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Honda Motor (NYSE:HMC  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Friday, February 9th. The company reported $1.06 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.85 by $0.21. Honda Motor had a net margin of 5.05% and a return on equity of 8.04%. The company had revenue of $36.50 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $37.68 billion.

Honda Motor Price Performance

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Honda Motor

NYSE:HMC opened at $37.27 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44, a quick ratio of 1.13 and a current ratio of 1.45. Honda Motor has a 52 week low of $25.75 and a 52 week high of $37.90. The firm has a market cap of $63.75 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.79, a P/E/G ratio of 0.43 and a beta of 0.71. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $34.70 and its 200 day simple moving average is $33.04.

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in HMC. B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. acquired a new stake in Honda Motor during the 4th quarter worth approximately $857,000. Fisher Asset Management LLC increased its stake in Honda Motor by 2.5% during the 4th quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 9,644,064 shares of the companys stock valued at $298,098,000 after purchasing an additional 232,148 shares in the last quarter. Sierra Summit Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Honda Motor in the 4th quarter worth $501,000. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Honda Motor by 13.5% in the 4th quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC now owns 23,582 shares of the companys stock worth $729,000 after buying an additional 2,809 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Vident Advisory LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Honda Motor by 7.3% in the 4th quarter. Vident Advisory LLC now owns 19,532 shares of the companys stock worth $604,000 after buying an additional 1,336 shares during the last quarter. 5.32% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Honda Motor

(Get Free Report)

Honda Motor Co, Ltd. develops, manufactures, and distributes motorcycles, automobiles, power, and other products in Japan, North America, Europe, Asia, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Motorcycle Business, Automobile Business, Financial Services Business, and Power Product and Other Businesses.

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Informatica Inc. (NYSE:INFA  Get Free Report)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $36.84 and last traded at $36.84, with a volume of 289 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $35.96.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages recently commented on INFA. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on shares of Informatica from $33.00 to $38.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, February 15th. UBS Group increased their target price on shares of Informatica from $27.00 to $37.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, February 15th. Scotiabank increased their target price on shares of Informatica from $21.00 to $27.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Thursday, December 7th. The Goldman Sachs Group raised shares of Informatica from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their target price for the company from $26.00 to $44.00 in a report on Friday, February 16th. Finally, Citigroup increased their target price on shares of Informatica from $28.00 to $33.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, February 12th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $31.63.

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Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Informatica

Informatica Trading Down 0.9 %

The stocks 50-day moving average is $32.13 and its 200-day moving average is $26.91. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.82, a quick ratio of 1.66 and a current ratio of 1.66.

Informatica (NYSE:INFA  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, February 14th. The technology company reported $0.17 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.18 by ($0.01). The firm had revenue of $445.18 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $431.51 million. Informatica had a positive return on equity of 4.29% and a negative net margin of 7.85%. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Informatica Inc. will post 0.56 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Buying and Selling at Informatica

In other Informatica news, CEO Amit Walia sold 85,996 shares of Informatica stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.14, for a total value of $2,935,903.44. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 2,537,995 shares in the company, valued at approximately $86,647,149.30. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, EVP John Arthur Schweitzer sold 65,709 shares of Informatica stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $32.04, for a total transaction of $2,105,316.36. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 496,854 shares in the company, valued at approximately $15,919,202.16. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Amit Walia sold 85,996 shares of Informatica stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.14, for a total transaction of $2,935,903.44. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 2,537,995 shares in the company, valued at approximately $86,647,149.30. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 167,683 shares of company stock worth $5,564,047 in the last quarter. 53.90% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Informatica

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Wellington Management Group LLP increased its stake in Informatica by 30.5% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 8,339,728 shares of the technology companys stock worth $164,626,000 after buying an additional 1,949,022 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Informatica by 26.1% in the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 5,308,121 shares of the technology companys stock worth $150,698,000 after purchasing an additional 1,098,246 shares during the last quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Informatica during the 3rd quarter valued at about $14,375,000. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD grew its position in shares of Informatica by 202.2% during the 3rd quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 976,649 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $19,602,000 after buying an additional 653,473 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Kennedy Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of Informatica by 133.9% during the 2nd quarter. Kennedy Capital Management LLC now owns 914,166 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $16,912,000 after buying an additional 523,400 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 98.45% of the companys stock.

About Informatica

(Get Free Report)

Informatica Inc develops an artificial intelligence-powered platform that connects, manages, and unifies data across multi-vendor, multi-cloud, and hybrid systems at enterprise scale worldwide. Its platform includes a suite of interoperable data management products, including data integration products to ingest, transform, and integrate data; API and application integration products that enable users to create and manage APIs and integration processes for app-to-app synchronization, business process orchestration, B2B partner management, application development, and API management; data quality and observability products to profile, cleanse, standardize, observe, and monitor data to deliver accurate, complete, and consistent data; and master data management products to create an authoritative single source of truth of business-critical data.

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Kozak & Associates Inc. lifted its position in iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF (BATS:IETC  Free Report) by 7.6% in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 619,129 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 43,685 shares during the period. iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF makes up 12.4% of Kozak & Associates Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 2nd largest position. Kozak & Associates Inc. owned 0.23% of iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF worth $38,995,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. acquired a new position in iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $1,120,000. Captrust Financial Advisors bought a new stake in iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF during the 1st quarter valued at $46,000. Royal Bank of Canada raised its stake in iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF by 1,544.6% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 53,630 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,959,000 after acquiring an additional 50,369 shares in the last quarter. Citadel Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF by 81.0% in the 2nd quarter. Citadel Advisors LLC now owns 42,444 shares of the companys stock worth $1,795,000 after buying an additional 18,997 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Creative Planning raised its stake in shares of iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF by 105.6% in the 2nd quarter. Creative Planning now owns 8,784 shares of the companys stock worth $372,000 after buying an additional 4,512 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF Stock Down 0.4 %

Shares of IETC traded down $0.29 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $70.79. The stock had a trading volume of 64,327 shares. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $68.18 and a 200 day moving average of $61.23. The firm has a market cap of $194.67 million, a P/E ratio of 33.55 and a beta of 1.12.

iShares U.S. Tech Independence Focused ETF Profile

The iShares Evolved U.S. Technology ETF (IETC) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA IMI Information Technology index. The fund is an actively managed fund of US stocks in the information technology sector according to an alternative classification system defined by machine learning algorithms.

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Laurentian Bank of Canada (TSE:LB  Get Free Report) has received a consensus recommendation of Reduce from the fourteen research firms that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have issued a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 1-year price target among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is C$28.70.

Several research firms recently commented on LB. TD Securities cut Laurentian Bank of Canada from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their target price for the stock from C$30.00 to C$26.00 in a research note on Friday, December 8th. BMO Capital Markets decreased their target price on Laurentian Bank of Canada from C$43.00 to C$33.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, December 8th. Desjardins cut Laurentian Bank of Canada from a hold rating to a sell rating and reduced their price objective for the company from C$27.00 to C$26.00 in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Jefferies Financial Group reduced their price objective on Laurentian Bank of Canada from C$25.00 to C$24.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Friday, March 1st. Finally, Raymond James reduced their price target on shares of Laurentian Bank of Canada from C$32.00 to C$27.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, March 1st.

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Read Our Latest Research Report on Laurentian Bank of Canada

Laurentian Bank of Canada Price Performance

TSE LB opened at C$27.99 on Friday. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of C$27.10 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$27.25. Laurentian Bank of Canada has a one year low of C$24.92 and a one year high of C$48.23. The stock has a market capitalization of C$1.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 7.88, a P/E/G ratio of 0.76 and a beta of 1.27.

Laurentian Bank of Canada (TSE:LB  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, February 29th. The company reported C$0.91 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of C$0.93 by C($0.02). Laurentian Bank of Canada had a return on equity of 5.84% and a net margin of 17.33%. The business had revenue of C$258.34 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of C$257.80 million. Equities analysts expect that Laurentian Bank of Canada will post 3.8429752 earnings per share for the current year.

Laurentian Bank of Canada Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 1st. Shareholders of record on Monday, April 1st will be paid a dividend of $0.47 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 28th. This represents a $1.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.72%. Laurentian Bank of Canadas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 52.96%.

Laurentian Bank of Canada Company Profile

(Get Free Report

Laurentian Bank of Canada, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial services to personal, business, and institutional customers in Canada and the United States. It operates through three segments: Personal Banking, Commercial Banking, and Capital Markets. The Personal Banking segment offers financial services, such as financial advisory services to financial intermediaries; and operates digital direct-to-customer platform to retail clients.

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PFG Investments LLC boosted its position in McDonalds Co. (NYSE:MCD  Free Report) by 28.1% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 4,658 shares of the fast-food giants stock after purchasing an additional 1,021 shares during the period. PFG Investments LLCs holdings in McDonalds were worth $1,381,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Covestor Ltd lifted its position in shares of McDonalds by 103.4% during the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 413 shares of the fast-food giants stock valued at $102,000 after buying an additional 210 shares in the last quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of McDonalds by 7.7% during the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 69,824 shares of the fast-food giants stock valued at $17,266,000 after buying an additional 5,007 shares in the last quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp lifted its position in shares of McDonalds by 4.8% during the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 516,408 shares of the fast-food giants stock valued at $127,697,000 after buying an additional 23,643 shares in the last quarter. Stevens Capital Management LP purchased a new position in shares of McDonalds during the 1st quarter valued at about $1,108,000. Finally, Equitable Holdings Inc. lifted its position in shares of McDonalds by 59.7% during the 1st quarter. Equitable Holdings Inc. now owns 9,338 shares of the fast-food giants stock valued at $2,309,000 after buying an additional 3,490 shares in the last quarter. 70.29% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on MCD shares. Truist Financial lowered their price objective on McDonalds from $345.00 to $340.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, February 6th. Argus reissued a hold rating on shares of McDonalds in a research note on Monday. Barclays decreased their target price on McDonalds from $343.00 to $340.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. Oppenheimer reissued a market perform rating on shares of McDonalds in a research note on Friday, January 5th. Finally, Citigroup decreased their target price on McDonalds from $327.00 to $310.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twenty-two have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $320.10.

Insider Transactions at McDonalds

In other news, insider Joseph M. Erlinger sold 1,099 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $284.38, for a total value of $312,533.62. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 18,075 shares in the company, valued at $5,140,168.50. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.18% of the companys stock.

McDonalds Price Performance

McDonalds stock remained flat at $278.62 during midday trading on Tuesday. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,520,070 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,195,132. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $291.07 and its 200-day simple moving average is $280.92. McDonalds Co. has a 52 week low of $245.73 and a 52 week high of $302.39. The firm has a market capitalization of $201.18 billion, a PE ratio of 24.08, a P/E/G ratio of 3.05 and a beta of 0.72.

McDonalds (NYSE:MCD  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 5th. The fast-food giant reported $2.95 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.83 by $0.12. McDonalds had a negative return on equity of 171.96% and a net margin of 33.22%. The firm had revenue of $6.41 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.45 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $2.59 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 8.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts predict that McDonalds Co. will post 12.38 earnings per share for the current year.

McDonalds Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 1st were paid a $1.67 dividend. This represents a $6.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.40%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 29th. McDonaldss payout ratio is 57.74%.

About McDonalds

(Free Report)

McDonald's Corporation operates and franchises restaurants under the McDonald's brand in the United States and internationally. It offers food and beverages, including hamburgers and cheeseburgers, various chicken sandwiches, fries, shakes, desserts, sundaes, cookies, pies, soft drinks, coffee, and other beverages; and full or limited breakfast, as well as sells various other products during limited-time promotions.

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RNC Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS  Free Report) by 17.2% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 3,807 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 560 shares during the period. RNC Capital Management LLCs holdings in Novartis were worth $384,000 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. Syon Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of Novartis in the third quarter worth approximately $6,568,000. Mather Group LLC. raised its stake in Novartis by 8.1% during the 3rd quarter. Mather Group LLC. now owns 7,763 shares of the companys stock valued at $791,000 after buying an additional 580 shares during the last quarter. Global Retirement Partners LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Novartis by 3.4% during the 3rd quarter. Global Retirement Partners LLC now owns 4,544 shares of the companys stock valued at $437,000 after buying an additional 150 shares during the period. O Shaughnessy Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Novartis by 11.6% during the 3rd quarter. O Shaughnessy Asset Management LLC now owns 161,871 shares of the companys stock valued at $16,488,000 after buying an additional 16,882 shares during the period. Finally, LPL Financial LLC boosted its stake in shares of Novartis by 1.4% in the 3rd quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 330,042 shares of the companys stock worth $33,618,000 after buying an additional 4,510 shares during the last quarter. 13.12% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have issued reports on NVS. Morgan Stanley assumed coverage on Novartis in a research report on Tuesday, January 23rd. They issued an equal weight rating and a $114.00 target price on the stock. BMO Capital Markets initiated coverage on shares of Novartis in a report on Friday, February 23rd. They set a market perform rating and a $114.00 target price for the company. HSBC downgraded shares of Novartis from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, December 18th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Novartis in a research report on Wednesday, December 6th. They set a strong-buy rating for the company. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, one has given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $104.33.

Novartis Price Performance

Shares of NVS traded up $0.35 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $95.62. 864,535 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,419,054. The company has a market cap of $202.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.27, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.49 and a beta of 0.54. The company has a current ratio of 1.15, a quick ratio of 0.93 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39. The companys 50-day moving average price is $102.26 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $99.82. Novartis AG has a 52-week low of $89.76 and a 52-week high of $108.78.

Novartis (NYSE:NVS  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, January 30th. The company reported $1.53 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.64 by ($0.11). Novartis had a net margin of 29.83% and a return on equity of 29.90%. The business had revenue of $11.42 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.69 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.51 earnings per share. On average, analysts anticipate that Novartis AG will post 7.17 earnings per share for the current year.

Novartis Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed an annual dividend, which was paid on Thursday, March 7th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 8th were given a dividend of $3.7772 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 7th. This represents a dividend yield of 3.1%. This is a boost from Novartiss previous annual dividend of $3.47. Novartiss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 34.26%.

About Novartis

(Free Report)

Novartis AG researches, develops, manufactures, and markets healthcare products in Switzerland and internationally. It offers prescription medicines for patients and physicians. It focuses on therapeutic areas, such as cardiovascular, renal and metabolic, immunology, neuroscience, and oncology, as well as ophthalmology and hematology.

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Aircraft seen at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

The Ministry of Transport has asked carriers to develop aircraft fleet operation plans to meet the rising travel demand for the upcoming national holidays and summer peak.

In a document sent to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), the ministry said that the restructuring of some airlines fleet and flight networks, coupled with the recall of PW1100 engines by Pratt & Whitney for repair, have affected the load on both international and domestic flight routes, causing difficulties to passengers in terms of prices and schedules.

Statistics showed that the aircraft fleet in operation in Vietnam has been reduced by 25%, from 223 in 2023 to 173 in the first quarter of this year.

The request is raised in the context that the upcoming national holidays of Reunification Day on April 30 and Labor Day on May 1, and summer holidays, will push up air travel demand.

Accordingly, airlines must develop aircraft fleet operation plans to meet the demand as well as raise solutions to reduce flight cancellations or delays and improve service quality.

The ministry asked the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam to enhance supervision over the air transportation services, ticket listings and sales to prevent illegal increases in air tickets. Any violations must be promptly handled.

In addition, flight operation plans and adjustments must be made public so that passengers can be active with their travel plans.

Pratt & Whitneys recall of its PW1100 engines affects several Airbus A321 NEO operated by Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet, meaning that these planes will be grounded in 2024 and 2025.

According to Vietnam Airlines General Director Le Hong Ha, the shortage of aircrafts caused by engine repair and maintenance poses significant difficulties to airlines in 2024.

The problem is that it takes up to 250-300 days for maintenance of an engine, compared to the previous average maintenance time of 100-120 days due to the disruption in supply chains.

Vietnam Airlines currently operates around 60 A321, 12 of which must be grounded for the engine maintenance.

Other airlines are struggling with restructuring.

Starting from March 18, Pacific Airlines (part of the Vietnam Airlines Group) suspends flight operations to restructure its fleet and flight network in an effort to ensure operational efficiency. After returning the aircrafts to clear debt, the airline will not operate any aircraft but rent from Vietnam Airlines.

Bamboo Airways is also undergoing a major restructuring. It has been shutting down all international flight routes and low-performing domestic routes since the end of last year, including routes from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to Con Dao starting from April.

Bamboo reached an agreement to terminate a lease contract on three Embraer E190 jets, narrow-body aircraft accommodating up to 114 passengers, by the end of March. The aircraft fleet of Bamboo will be reduced from the peak of 30 to only 8 from April 2024.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam said that the reduction in the number of aircraft in operation would affect the air transport load this year.

The authority asked air carriers to have plans to make up for the shortage of jets, especially in peak periods such as summer holidays.

Airlines must announce adjustments of flight schedules daily and keep passengers updated.
Sawyer & Company Inc cut its position in ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Free Report) by 4.3% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 28,859 shares of the energy producers stock after selling 1,310 shares during the quarter. ConocoPhillips accounts for 1.4% of Sawyer & Company Incs portfolio, making the stock its 25th largest position. Sawyer & Company Incs holdings in ConocoPhillips were worth $3,350,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Orion Capital Management LLC bought a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 3rd quarter valued at $27,000. RVW Wealth LLC bought a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 3rd quarter valued at $28,000. West Tower Group LLC bought a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 2nd quarter valued at $27,000. Oliver Lagore Vanvalin Investment Group boosted its stake in ConocoPhillips by 63.1% during the 3rd quarter. Oliver Lagore Vanvalin Investment Group now owns 287 shares of the energy producers stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 111 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fairfield Bush & CO. bought a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 1st quarter valued at $31,000. 82.36% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Activity at ConocoPhillips

In related news, SVP Heather G. Hrap sold 4,548 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $110.55, for a total value of $502,781.40. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 2,654 shares in the company, valued at approximately $293,399.70. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In other news, EVP Nicholas G. Olds sold 12,150 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $126.44, for a total transaction of $1,536,246.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 14,522 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,836,161.68. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, SVP Heather G. Hrap sold 4,548 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $110.55, for a total transaction of $502,781.40. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 2,654 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $293,399.70. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 700,775 shares of company stock worth $87,615,169 in the last 90 days. Corporate insiders own 0.37% of the companys stock.

ConocoPhillips Stock Performance

Shares of COP opened at $125.89 on Wednesday. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $113.14 and a 200 day moving average price of $115.98. The firm has a market capitalization of $148.10 billion, a PE ratio of 13.91, a P/E/G ratio of 2.87 and a beta of 1.23. The company has a quick ratio of 1.29, a current ratio of 1.43 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36. ConocoPhillips has a 52-week low of $95.70 and a 52-week high of $127.35.

ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The energy producer reported $2.40 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.08 by $0.32. The firm had revenue of $15.31 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.47 billion. ConocoPhillips had a net margin of 18.71% and a return on equity of 22.08%. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $2.71 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that ConocoPhillips will post 8.79 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

ConocoPhillips Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Investors of record on Monday, February 19th were given a $0.78 dividend. This represents a $3.12 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.48%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 15th. This is a positive change from ConocoPhillipss previous quarterly dividend of $0.58. ConocoPhillipss dividend payout ratio is currently 25.61%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

COP has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Mizuho reiterated a neutral rating and set a $139.00 price objective (up from $132.00) on shares of ConocoPhillips in a research note on Friday, March 22nd. Piper Sandler dropped their target price on shares of ConocoPhillips from $139.00 to $133.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, March 14th. Susquehanna dropped their target price on shares of ConocoPhillips from $152.00 to $133.00 and set a positive rating on the stock in a report on Friday, January 26th. UBS Group increased their target price on shares of ConocoPhillips from $138.00 to $143.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, February 14th. Finally, Raymond James dropped their target price on shares of ConocoPhillips from $140.00 to $137.00 and set a strong-buy rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eleven have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $135.12.

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About ConocoPhillips

(Free Report)

ConocoPhillips explores for, produces, transports, and markets crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and natural gas liquids in the United States, Canada, China, Libya, Malaysia, Norway, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company's portfolio includes unconventional plays in North America; conventional assets in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia; global LNG developments; oil sands assets in Canada; and an inventory of global exploration prospects.

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Bank of Ireland Group plc (OTCMKTS:BKRIY  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large increase in short interest during the month of March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 16,700 shares, an increase of 215.1% from the February 29th total of 5,300 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 61,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days.

Bank of Ireland Group Stock Up 1.5 %

BKRIY stock traded up $0.15 on Wednesday, hitting $9.80. The companys stock had a trading volume of 16,184 shares, compared to its average volume of 57,618. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $9.22 and a two-hundred day moving average of $9.29. Bank of Ireland Group has a 1 year low of $8.38 and a 1 year high of $11.12.

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About Bank of Ireland Group

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Bank of Ireland Group plc provides various banking and financial products and services. It provides current and savings accounts, and business deposits and accounts; personal, car, home improvement, graduate, motor finance, and student loans, as well as overdrafts; and business and farming loans, green business, insurance premium finance, invoice finance, hire purchase, and leasing services.

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BZAM Ltd. (OTCMKTS:BZAMF  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large increase in short interest in March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 5,100 shares, an increase of 325.0% from the February 29th total of 1,200 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 532,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.0 days.

BZAM Stock Performance

Shares of BZAMF traded down $0.01 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $0.05. The stock had a trading volume of 82,042 shares, compared to its average volume of 505,174. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $0.07 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $0.09. The company has a quick ratio of 0.44, a current ratio of 1.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13. BZAM has a fifty-two week low of $0.01 and a fifty-two week high of $0.29. The company has a market cap of $8.14 million, a PE ratio of -0.09 and a beta of 1.80.

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About BZAM

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Further Reading

BZAM Ltd. operates as a cannabis producer with a focus on branded consumer goods. Its brands include the BZAM, TGOD, ness, Highly Dutch Organic, and TABLE TOP, as well as Dunn Cannabis, FRESH, and Wyld partner brands. The company operate facilities in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec, as well as retail stores in Winnipeg, Manitoba and Regina, Saskatchewan.

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Tectonic Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE:OMC  Free Report) by 6.2% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 3,886 shares of the business services providers stock after buying an additional 227 shares during the period. Tectonic Advisors LLCs holdings in Omnicom Group were worth $336,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of OMC. First Trust Advisors LP boosted its position in shares of Omnicom Group by 683.2% during the first quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 2,957,307 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $251,016,000 after buying an additional 2,579,717 shares during the last quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Omnicom Group by 98.3% during the third quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 3,032,265 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $225,842,000 after buying an additional 1,503,249 shares during the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. boosted its position in shares of Omnicom Group by 4.2% during the second quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 18,744,473 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $1,783,537,000 after buying an additional 749,118 shares during the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its position in shares of Omnicom Group by 81.0% during the first quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 1,527,561 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $144,111,000 after buying an additional 683,810 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Boston Partners boosted its position in shares of Omnicom Group by 21.7% during the third quarter. Boston Partners now owns 3,727,701 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $277,726,000 after buying an additional 664,800 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 91.97% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

OMC has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price objective on Omnicom Group from $85.00 to $91.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 7th. UBS Group initiated coverage on Omnicom Group in a research report on Thursday, January 11th. They issued a buy rating and a $117.00 price objective on the stock. Barclays boosted their price objective on Omnicom Group from $95.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, January 29th. Morgan Stanley raised Omnicom Group from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and boosted their price objective for the stock from $90.00 to $100.00 in a research report on Friday, December 15th. Finally, Macquarie raised Omnicom Group from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and boosted their price objective for the stock from $80.00 to $100.00 in a research report on Friday, January 5th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Omnicom Group presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $99.22.

Omnicom Group Stock Down 0.6 %

Shares of NYSE OMC opened at $92.78 on Wednesday. Omnicom Group Inc. has a one year low of $72.20 and a one year high of $99.23. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.16, a current ratio of 0.95 and a quick ratio of 0.86. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $89.82 and its 200-day moving average price is $83.12. The stock has a market capitalization of $18.37 billion, a PE ratio of 13.41, a P/E/G ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.96.

Omnicom Group (NYSE:OMC  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 5th. The business services provider reported $2.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.16 by $0.04. Omnicom Group had a return on equity of 39.07% and a net margin of 9.47%. The company had revenue of $4.06 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $2.09 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 5.0% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Omnicom Group Inc. will post 7.73 EPS for the current year.

Omnicom Group Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, May 9th. Investors of record on Monday, March 11th will be paid a dividend of $0.70 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, March 8th. This represents a $2.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.02%. Omnicom Groups payout ratio is 40.46%.

Insider Activity at Omnicom Group

In related news, Director Linda Johnson Rice sold 507 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, February 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $86.66, for a total transaction of $43,936.62. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 9,753 shares in the company, valued at approximately $845,194.98. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. 1.30% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

About Omnicom Group

(Free Report)

Omnicom Group Inc, together with its subsidiaries, offers advertising, marketing, and corporate communications services. It provides a range of services in the areas of advertising and media, precision marketing, commerce and branding, experiential, execution and support, public relations, and healthcare.

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Telefonica Brasil S.A. (NYSE:VIV  Get Free Report) has received an average rating of Moderate Buy from the six ratings firms that are covering the stock, Marketbeat.com reports. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating on the company. The average twelve-month price objective among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $11.73.

VIV has been the subject of several recent research reports. Barclays upped their target price on shares of Telefonica Brasil from $13.00 to $13.50 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, February 26th. StockNews.com raised Telefonica Brasil from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 20th. Morgan Stanley restated an equal weight rating and set a $11.00 target price on shares of Telefonica Brasil in a research report on Friday, January 5th. Finally, TheStreet upgraded shares of Telefonica Brasil from a c- rating to a b rating in a research report on Thursday, December 21st.

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View Our Latest Analysis on VIV

Institutional Trading of Telefonica Brasil

Telefonica Brasil Trading Up 0.8 %

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of VIV. Credit Suisse AG increased its holdings in Telefonica Brasil by 543.6% during the 3rd quarter. Credit Suisse AG now owns 7,485 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $57,000 after purchasing an additional 6,322 shares in the last quarter. Quantbot Technologies LP bought a new position in shares of Telefonica Brasil during the second quarter worth about $68,000. FMR LLC grew its holdings in shares of Telefonica Brasil by 578.8% during the first quarter. FMR LLC now owns 9,863 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $75,000 after buying an additional 8,410 shares in the last quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC raised its position in Telefonica Brasil by 191.7% in the 2nd quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC now owns 10,028 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock valued at $102,000 after buying an additional 6,590 shares during the last quarter. Finally, B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in Telefonica Brasil in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $84,000. 5.16% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

VIV stock opened at $10.15 on Wednesday. The business has a fifty day moving average of $10.56 and a 200-day moving average of $10.09. The company has a market cap of $16.88 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.36, a PEG ratio of 0.80 and a beta of 0.76. Telefonica Brasil has a twelve month low of $7.28 and a twelve month high of $11.43. The company has a quick ratio of 0.92, a current ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20.

Telefonica Brasil (NYSE:VIV  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, February 20th. The Wireless communications provider reported $0.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Telefonica Brasil had a net margin of 9.70% and a return on equity of 7.33%. The company had revenue of $2.73 billion for the quarter. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Telefonica Brasil will post 0.7 EPS for the current year.

About Telefonica Brasil

(Get Free Report

Telefonica Brasil SA, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a mobile telecommunications company in Brazil. Its fixed line services portfolio includes local, domestic long-distance, and international long-distance calls; and mobile portfolio comprises voice and broadband internet access through 3G, 4G, 4.5G, and 5G, as well as mobile value-added and wireless roaming services.

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Viking Fund Management LLC lessened its position in shares of The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO  Free Report) by 44.4% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 50,000 shares of the companys stock after selling 40,000 shares during the quarter. Viking Fund Management LLCs holdings in Coca-Cola were worth $2,946,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Insigneo Advisory Services LLC grew its position in shares of Coca-Cola by 12.2% in the third quarter. Insigneo Advisory Services LLC now owns 41,683 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,354,000 after purchasing an additional 4,527 shares during the period. HF Advisory Group LLC grew its position in shares of Coca-Cola by 7.6% in the third quarter. HF Advisory Group LLC now owns 6,770 shares of the companys stock valued at $379,000 after purchasing an additional 476 shares during the period. Wahed Invest LLC lifted its stake in shares of Coca-Cola by 10.3% in the third quarter. Wahed Invest LLC now owns 61,355 shares of the companys stock worth $3,435,000 after buying an additional 5,707 shares in the last quarter. Tucker Asset Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Coca-Cola by 110.4% in the second quarter. Tucker Asset Management LLC now owns 9,052 shares of the companys stock worth $545,000 after buying an additional 4,749 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cohen Lawrence B lifted its stake in shares of Coca-Cola by 2.8% in the third quarter. Cohen Lawrence B now owns 40,872 shares of the companys stock worth $2,288,000 after buying an additional 1,111 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.26% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, EVP Nancy Quan sold 57,368 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $60.87, for a total value of $3,491,990.16. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 223,330 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,594,097.10. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this link. In other news, insider Bruno Pietracci sold 18,551 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, March 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $59.41, for a total value of $1,102,114.91. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, EVP Nancy Quan sold 57,368 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $60.87, for a total transaction of $3,491,990.16. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 223,330 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,594,097.10. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 375,407 shares of company stock worth $22,795,742 in the last 90 days. Corporate insiders own 0.97% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research firms have recently weighed in on KO. Citigroup raised their price target on shares of Coca-Cola from $67.00 to $68.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 17th. Barclays raised their price target on shares of Coca-Cola from $60.00 to $66.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 16th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on shares of Coca-Cola from $64.00 to $66.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 14th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $67.00.

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Coca-Cola Stock Up 0.3 %

Shares of KO stock traded up $0.17 during trading on Tuesday, reaching $60.57. The companys stock had a trading volume of 13,276,368 shares, compared to its average volume of 14,231,086. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.29, a current ratio of 1.13 and a quick ratio of 0.95. The company has a market capitalization of $261.13 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.42, a P/E/G ratio of 3.43 and a beta of 0.59. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $60.03 and its 200 day moving average price is $58.29. The Coca-Cola Company has a 1-year low of $51.55 and a 1-year high of $64.99.

Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 13th. The company reported $0.49 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.48 by $0.01. Coca-Cola had a net margin of 23.42% and a return on equity of 42.50%. The company had revenue of $10.80 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.68 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.45 EPS. The firms revenue was up 6.9% on a year-over-year basis. On average, research analysts anticipate that The Coca-Cola Company will post 2.81 EPS for the current year.

Coca-Cola Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.485 per share. This represents a $1.94 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.20%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 14th. This is a boost from Coca-Colas previous quarterly dividend of $0.46. Coca-Colas payout ratio is 78.23%.

Coca-Cola Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Coca-Cola Company, a beverage company, manufactures, markets, and sells various nonalcoholic beverages worldwide. The company provides sparkling soft drinks, sparkling flavors; water, sports, coffee, and tea; juice, value-added dairy, and plant-based beverages; and other beverages. It also offers beverage concentrates and syrups, as well as fountain syrups to fountain retailers, such as restaurants and convenience stores.

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TransAlta Co. (TSE:TA  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TAC) has been given a consensus recommendation of Buy by the ten research firms that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold recommendation, eight have given a buy recommendation and one has assigned a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 12 month price objective among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is C$15.80.

Several equities analysts have recently weighed in on TA shares. National Bankshares reduced their price target on TransAlta from C$14.00 to C$13.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. TD Securities decreased their price target on TransAlta from C$15.00 to C$14.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, February 26th. BMO Capital Markets cut their price objective on shares of TransAlta from C$17.00 to C$16.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Monday, February 26th. Royal Bank of Canada decreased their target price on shares of TransAlta from C$15.00 to C$14.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, February 26th. Finally, CIBC boosted their price target on shares of TransAlta from C$18.00 to C$18.50 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, February 26th.

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TransAlta Trading Up 1.2 %

TSE TA opened at C$8.68 on Wednesday. TransAlta has a 12 month low of C$8.44 and a 12 month high of C$13.97. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of C$9.37 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$10.55. The company has a current ratio of 0.91, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 253.18. The firm has a market capitalization of C$2.67 billion, a P/E ratio of 3.73, a PEG ratio of -0.07 and a beta of 0.89.

TransAlta (TSE:TA  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TAC) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 23rd. The company reported C($0.27) EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of C$0.18 by C($0.45). The business had revenue of C$624.00 million for the quarter. TransAlta had a net margin of 20.71% and a return on equity of 43.58%. On average, analysts predict that TransAlta will post 0.4712329 EPS for the current fiscal year.

TransAlta Company Profile

(Get Free Report

TransAlta Corporation engages in the development, production, and sale of electric energy. It operates through Hydro, Wind and Solar, Gas, Energy Transition, and Energy Marketing segments. The Hydro segment holds interest of approximately 922 megawatts (MW) of owned hydroelectric generating capacity located in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.

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WASHINGTON TRUST Co cut its holdings in shares of Amcor plc (NYSE:AMCR  Free Report) by 11.1% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 720,772 shares of the companys stock after selling 90,184 shares during the quarter. WASHINGTON TRUST Cos holdings in Amcor were worth $6,948,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its stake in Amcor by 783.4% in the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 19,275,142 shares of the companys stock worth $219,352,000 after purchasing an additional 17,093,248 shares during the period. State Street Corp boosted its stake in Amcor by 10.2% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 112,644,781 shares of the companys stock worth $1,276,265,000 after purchasing an additional 10,472,157 shares during the period. Invesco Ltd. boosted its stake in Amcor by 40.9% in the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 27,078,220 shares of the companys stock worth $306,797,000 after purchasing an additional 7,854,257 shares during the period. Federated Hermes Inc. boosted its stake in Amcor by 951.8% in the 1st quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 8,641,388 shares of the companys stock worth $97,907,000 after purchasing an additional 7,819,836 shares during the period. Finally, Norges Bank bought a new position in Amcor in the 4th quarter worth about $58,210,000. 45.14% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Amcor Price Performance

Shares of AMCR traded up $0.25 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $9.44. 4,171,540 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 9,125,032. Amcor plc has a 12 month low of $8.45 and a 12 month high of $11.39. The company has a current ratio of 1.25, a quick ratio of 0.71 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.74. The stock has a market cap of $13.64 billion, a PE ratio of 20.89, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 10.21 and a beta of 0.78. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $9.28 and its 200-day simple moving average is $9.27.

Amcor Dividend Announcement

Amcor ( NYSE:AMCR Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 6th. The company reported $0.16 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.15 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $3.25 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.29 billion. Amcor had a return on equity of 24.28% and a net margin of 4.59%. Equities analysts expect that Amcor plc will post 0.68 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, March 19th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, February 28th were given a $0.125 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, February 27th. This represents a $0.50 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.30%. Amcors payout ratio is currently 113.64%.

About Amcor

(Free Report)

Amcor plc develops, produces, and sells packaging products in Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, and the Asia Pacific regions. The company operates through two segments, Flexibles and Rigid Packaging. The Flexibles segment provides flexible and film packaging products in the food and beverage, medical and pharmaceutical, fresh produce, snack food, personal care, and other industries.

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WASHINGTON TRUST Co lessened its stake in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) by 0.9% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 346,639 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 3,100 shares during the quarter. WASHINGTON TRUST Cos holdings in Pfizer were worth $9,980,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in PFE. State Street Corp increased its position in Pfizer by 1.9% during the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 287,201,692 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $10,534,558,000 after buying an additional 5,374,611 shares during the period. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Pfizer by 89,592.7% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 161,143,638 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $8,257,000,000 after purchasing an additional 160,963,976 shares during the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of Pfizer by 10.9% in the 3rd quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 95,772,746 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $3,161,261,000 after purchasing an additional 9,393,992 shares during the last quarter. Morgan Stanley grew its stake in shares of Pfizer by 0.4% in the 3rd quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 84,927,802 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $2,817,055,000 after purchasing an additional 348,628 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Norges Bank purchased a new position in shares of Pfizer in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $3,150,472,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.36% of the companys stock.

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Pfizer Trading Up 0.7 %

Shares of Pfizer stock traded up $0.20 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $27.79. The stock had a trading volume of 18,049,146 shares, compared to its average volume of 43,612,059. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $27.48 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $29.52. The firm has a market capitalization of $157.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 77.14, a P/E/G ratio of 1.23 and a beta of 0.61. The company has a current ratio of 0.91, a quick ratio of 0.69 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69. Pfizer Inc. has a 1 year low of $25.61 and a 1 year high of $42.22.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last posted its 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. Pfizer had a return on equity of 10.88% and a net margin of 3.62%. The business had revenue of $14.25 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.37 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.14 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 41.3% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.22 earnings per share for the current year.

A number of analysts recently weighed in on the company. Barclays decreased their price target on Pfizer from $34.00 to $28.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, December 14th. Argus downgraded Pfizer from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, March 22nd. Cantor Fitzgerald restated an overweight rating and issued a $45.00 price target on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Friday, March 1st. Guggenheim assumed coverage on Pfizer in a research note on Friday, February 23rd. They issued a buy rating and a $36.00 price target on the stock. Finally, TD Cowen downgraded Pfizer from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and set a $32.00 price target on the stock. in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $36.88.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on PFE

Pfizer Company Profile

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, 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.

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Chairman of steel giant Hoa Sen Group wants daughter to take over

Le Phuoc Vu, chairman of steel giant Hoa Sen Group, plans to bequeath the company to his youngest daughter, a 23-year-old student in Australia, in 7-10 years time.

At the annual shareholders meeting earlier this month, Vu and the board of directors discussed who would succeed him, and the latter plumped for his daughter.

The handover would happen when she is ready for the task.

Vu described his daughter as "very honest" and an excellent student who is currently studying for two bachelors degrees.

"I never intended to leave the firm to my daughter. She is my child and so I do not want her to bear the burden," he said. "I do not want them to be corrupted by money and fall prey to greed."

She did not want to take over the business and so he had to encourage her to start at a low position at one of the companys factories to slowly familiarize herself with its operations.

"After 10 years, if she is ready, I will transfer the business to her. Otherwise, I will find another solution."

He also said he would have to put off his previous plans to quit and become a Buddhist monk in 2026-27 until someone could take over from him.

Last year he had said he would bequeath the steelmaker to a non-profit since he did not want to leave it to his heirs in order to teach them the value of hard work and understand the struggles of impoverished people.

But he later recanted, saying a foundation like that would operate just like a business, and that is not what he wants.

He then thought of selling the firm to another wealthy entrepreneur, but after several meetings with the person, who was never identified, he and the board deemed them unsuitable.

What he and the board look for in a chairman is not just the ability to handle a business, but also ethics and responsibility to the community.

"If I sell Hoa Sen now, it would immediately lose its integrity, business ethics and responsibilities."

Founded by Vu in 2001, it is now one of Vietnams leading steel enterprises.

It is well-known for its steel sheets, galvanized pipes and plastic pipes, and has recently expanded into construction materials retail.

It has 10 manufacturing plants and nearly 500 offices and stores, and exports its products to 87 countries.

This year it hopes to increase its profits by 13.3-16.7 times to VND400-500 billion (US$16.1-20.1 million) and list a number of subsidiaries.

It also plans to restructure manufacturing and the furniture and construction materials retail chain, Hoa Sen Home.
The Royal Malaysian Customs Department on Tuesday busted an international drug trafficking syndicate and seized 380 kilos of methamphetamine worth MYR12.54 million (US$2.7 million) at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Datuk Sazali Mohamad, Deputy Director-General of the department, said the enforcement officers confiscated a suspicious looking pallet boxes labeled as Chinese herbal tea which instead contained crystal clear substances believed to be dangerous drugs such as methamphetamine.

Sazali said preliminary investigations revealed that the merchandise was declared as magnetic hard disk drive from the Bayan Lepas Cargo Complex in Penang on March 18 and then transported by road to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport's cargo complex on March 19.

It is clear that the goods were to be exported by air to Sydney, Australia. The information about the exporter of the goods that exists is a company that manufactures hard discs in Kulim, Kedah, but it is suspected to be abused by the drug trafficking syndicate.
The Ministry of Transport wants the proposed 350 kph high-speed rail to be used for passenger transport, leaving the existing line to exclusively carry freight.

At a government meeting Tuesday where the proposal was discussed, Vuong Dinh Khanh, a former deputy general director of the Vietnam Railways Corporation, called for carefully considering things before earmarking the existing lines exclusively for freight trains.

The proposal has been discussed at a number of meetings in the past.

In November 2023 the transport ministry had invited opinions on the top speed for the proposed railroad. The Ministry of Planning and Investment had said: "There are no mixed passenger and freight railroad lines in the world with a design speed of 350 kph."

The Politburo, the Communist Party's decision-making body, wants construction to begin by 2030 and completed by 2045.

At the Tuesday meeting, former deputy transport minister La Ngoc Khue said the high-speed line must "connect with international railway lines" to reduce logistics costs of goods.

Inland waterways and maritime transport offer cost advantages, but are time-consuming and involve multiple loading and unloading, he pointed out.

So this is a significant opportunity to expand rail transport of freight, he added.

Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Danh Huy said the rail project is huge with complex technical standards, and passes through many localities, and so requires careful consideration.

Railroad projects bring significant economic benefits, but the financial efficiency of the project is not high. Therefore, he suggested that the government prioritize the state budget for the project.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha said a modern industrial country needs high-speed rail services to reduce logistics costs and enhance economic competitiveness.

He urged the transport ministry to review all the feedback and finalize investment plans for it.

The ministry has to learn from other countries' experience in operating high-speed rail networks that combine passenger and freight transport, he added.
with the Late Senator Parker

Monday I got a call from Senator Carl Parker, I always called him Senator. He said he was checking on me. I told him outside of nearly daily visits to some doctor, and having to get up too much during the night I was hanging in there. He said join the club about nights ups and downs, thats an old mans curse. He told me he was due to have a heart valve repaired. I didnt understand why it was put off, something about the doctor not being available. I asked if he had talked to Dr. Morbia, he said no, but one of his partners, Dr. Abochamh, had recommended the heart surgeon. Morbia, for 30 years, has been Carls doctor. I dont know what happened between Monday and Friday. We had a nice, long talk about the old times when we were young and burnt the candle at both ends. Carl and I started out as political adversaries. For two elections I was W.T. Olivers campaign manager. W.T. was incumbent when Carl won the next two elections. Sometime back he wrote a column about how our friendship had evolved. I believe it was mutual respect. He once told me, No one can accuse you of not being loyal. Carl did me some valuable favors. I had the opportunity to do him a favor that likely led to him being elected senator. He, W.T. and Chester Slay were in a three-way race to replace Sen. D. Roy Harrington. Oliver ran a close third, putting Parker and Slay in a close runoff. Doug Harrington, my friend the pharmacist, the senators son, called me all panicked. He had just learned that W.T. was endorsing Slay. There werent any cell phones then but Olivers wife, Ann, gave me the address where they were gathered. I contacted W.T. and told him he couldnt do that. He said he had already done it. He had not met with his supporters or financial backers so I told him he had to undo it. Chester Slay showed up at my office and left with tears in his eyes. He knew that with Olivers strong conservative support, he would beat Parker. I agreed. W.T. would not endorse either candidate; however Olivers supporters did endorse Parker in political ads. The last time Carl and I spoke on Monday, he brought up that race. Doug Harrington never forgot that favor and gathered funds to help Oliver with expenses. The singing Senator: Each time Carl and Beverly attended a party at our place Carl sang his songs. H.D. Pate always jokingly urged Carl to sing the only two songs he knew. Carl and I were the same age and we talked about racing down the hill to our 90th. We talked about all the old political grinders being gone. Gene Edgerly left us last year but Judge Flo is still with us, not as politically active but still involved. Carl turned in his column last Tuesday and we think it is worth running again. Beverly said he was working on a new column when he went to take a nap. I got the awful news that night. Senator Carl Parker was one of a kind. He was one of the smartest people I have ever known. He was one of the most decorated Texas legislatures, authoring over 400 bills that became law. Here at home, he was responsible for H.D. Pate becoming president of Lamar Board of Regents, Judge Don Burgess an Applet Court Judge, plus several district judge appointments. He was responsible for Gov. Ann Richards appointing me to the Sabine Pilot Commission. While I was on the Commission we swore in the first lady pilot. There were many more local appointments. Sen. Parker was the only legislature elected speaker pro-tem of the House and president pro-tem of the Senate. Rest in peace my friend.
The Bridge City City Council is asking for the Texas Department of Transportation to redesign a traffic detour at the Rainbow Bridge when the landmark will be closed for maintenance later this year.

The council in the letter says a plan to install "S" turns for diverting Rainbow Bridge traffic on and off the Veterans Bridge "will lead to an unnecessary and totally avoidable potential for accidents and traffic congestion."

TxDOT's plans call for closing the Rainbow Bridge and turning the adjacent Veterans Bridge to accommodate two-way traffic, with special "S" turns for traffic that would be going on the Rainbow Bridge to go onto and off of, Veterans.

In the letter signed by Mayor David Rutledge, the city is says that when going down the Veterans Memorial Bridge from Orange County to Jefferson County, vehicles tend to speed on the decline. The increased speed, especially with rain or other inclement weather, would reduce visibility at the end of the bridge and make problems for traffic diverting on the "S" turn.

Speed, low visibility and a sudden "S" turn could lead to vehicle collisions. The bridge is on Texas Highway 87, which is the main thoroughfare through Bridge City. Crashes on or at the bridges can cause traffic to back up into the city, creating more traffic problems.

The letter says Mayor Rutledge, along with City Manager Christopher Baker and the police chief met with a representative of TxDOT in mid-February to discuss their concerns with the plans for the bridge detour. They even drove the representative around the bridge to show their concerns.

Even though the representative said he would contact TxDOT's traffic management, by mid-March the city had no reply on any changes.

The council voted unanimously to send the letter asking for the traffic changes. Last week, TxDOT announced the Rainbow Bridge would close for at least 18 months beginning in late summer or early fall. The 1938 bridge will undergo "extreme maintenance."

Also the Bridge City Council voted to annex 16.9 acres for a new subdivision off Honeysuckle Street.

In addition, the council voted to rename Pine Lane to Derick Lane in honor of the Quibodeaux family.
The West Orange-Cove school district has plans to build a new North Early Learning Center near the elementary school if voters in May approve a $72 million bond proposal.

The bulk of the bond money will go toward building the new school to replace the current one on Cordrey Avenue in Orange that was built in 1964.

The school district has already acquired 27 acres of land behind West Orange-Stark Elementary School on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Pinehurst. The elementary school opened in 2010.

North Early Learning Center was built as a high school and later served as a middle school. For nearly 40 years, the building school has been the early learning center for Pre-K age 3, Pre-K age 4, Head Start, and early childhood special education. Currently, the school has 300 students.

The school district is reporting that because of its tax base and finances, taxpayers will not see an increase in their property taxes if voters approve. Still, the state law requires school districts to say on the ballots a bond issue could raise property taxes.

April 7 will be the deadline to register to vote, if not already registered, for the bonds. The election will be May 4 and this year, the district does not have to have a board of trustees election because the incumbents filed to run and drew no opponents.

Early voting for the election will be April 22-26, and April 29-30.

The new early learning center will take up the majority of the $72 million in the bond issue. The district also plans to improve safety and security for existing schools and buildings, plus install technology upgrades.

In addition, the bonds will be used to improve existing staff and student restrooms for better hygiene, plus buy new school buses. The other project is improvements in the district's HVAC systems for air conditioning and heating. The upgrades will be more energy efficient to save on utility bills and improve airflow in buildings.

The district currently has a tax rate of $1.06 per $100 valuation. The rate is 80 cents per $100 for maintenance and operations, plus 26 cents per $100 valuation for interest and sinking fund to pay for bonds. Homestead exemptions include a $100,000 exemption required by the state, plus the district gives an addition 20 percent homestead exemption.

The district created a Facilities Advisory Committee last year with representatives from the community along with district staff members to study needs. Based on the committee's recommendation, the school board earlier this year call for the bond election.
Laman Ismayilova

For the first time, Ganja State Philharmonic Hall has hosted a fabulous show, "Spring Girl and Ice Girl," dedicated to the Novruz holiday.

The cold winter weather in Azerbaijan suited the premiere of the fantastic, creative, and modern children's fairy-tale show, Azernews reports.

The author of the idea and screenwriter was the famous opera performer, director of the Philharmonic, Honoured Artist Ramil Gasimov.

It is interesting that the production director of the performance was also an opera performer, Honoured Artist Inara Babaeva. The creative tandem project was met with great interest by the children and made the most favourable impression on them.

In the fairy-tale show, the Spring Girl, a symbol of the Novruz holiday, kidnapped by Doctor John on the orders of the Ice Girl, is rescued by her friends Sabish and Agush. Starring talented young people - Urfana Azimova, Aysu Karimova, Jeyhun Gurbanov, Rasul Guliyev, Tofig Guliyev, Ruslan Bayramov, Amin Huseynov, and Almaz Gasimova. The show evoked great interest among both children and adults.

Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az, and Milli.Az.
Vietnam's Maitreya Bodhisattva Statue, located on Ba Den Mountain, showcases the method of stone assembly for the first time, a technique similar to Egyptian pyramids.

Tourists can visit Sichuan Province in China to admire the world's largest Buddha statue carved on the cliff of a mountain, or the Golden Buddha Temple in Bangkok to admire the largest solid gold Buddha statue in the world.

Buddhist structures that evoke awe with their colossal and magnificent presence are not uncommon around the world.

However, a Buddhist structure crafted in an elaborate way to become an architectural masterpiece is not something encountered often in life.

Such a rare masterpiece is now located in Vietnam, atop Ba Den Mountain, the roof of the southern region, a sacred mountain steeped in legend and miracles.

Photo courtesy of Sun Group

300 days for seemingly impossible mission

The rainy season in Tay Ninh seemed endless to Tran Duc Hoa, head of the Tay Ninh Project Management Board of Sun Group, along with the team constructing the Maitreya Bodhisattva Statue.

The constant threat of landslides on the 60-degree sloped terrain added to the challenge of transforming over 5.000 tons of sandstone into a timeless masterpiece atop Ba Den Mountain.

In July and August 2023, Tay Ninh was soaked in rain, and the Maitreya Bodhisattva Statue was gradually taking shape. The peak of Ba Den Mountain was crowded with visitors hunting rare cloud phenomena.

Rainbow clouds, phoenix clouds, and most notably, a phenomenon of lenticular clouds formed a gigantic white cone covering the mountain peak, resembling a flying saucer landing on the roof of the southern region.

"The more fantastic the clouds, the greater our worries," recalls Hoa.

The most beautiful cloudy days were also the days of heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds. The mountain experienced harsh weather conditions, including cold temperatures, wet landslides, mist, and slippery surfaces.

The harsh weather and terrain failed to meet safety conditions for construction and also demanded meticulous precision in sculpting the statue.

Even a small mistake of one centimeter could sweep away all efforts and cause landslides on existing structures.

According to the construction unit's calculations, a large-scale Buddhist project atop a mountain over 900 meters high would require at least 2 years to complete.

Among the various stages of construction, the stone carving and finishing would take 400 days alone.

However, this grand project was required to be completed urgently in 9 months, so that in the early days of the new year, visitors could admire the Maitreya Bodhisattva Statue upon reaching the sacred peak of Ba Den.

"There were times when we had to mobilize 600700 people on the construction site. All stages had to be carried out on top of each other to keep up with progress. We also continuously worked overtime, 24/7, to keep up with the work schedule," Hoa said.

In mid-2022, it seemed beyond the imagination of the Tay Ninh project management team members of Sun Group when tasked with supervising and constructing the statue. It was assembled from 6,688 sandstones, each with its own unique size and shape.

Workers at the construction site of Maitreya Bodhisattva Statue on Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh Province. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

The project is located on the top of a watershed with steeply sloping terrain on Ba Den Mountain. The stream flows through the terrain, creating division and changing the geological state.

"When surveying the geological terrain, I could not imagine how to create a gigantic statue weighing over 5,000 tons on such challenging terrain with many boulders. We had less than 300 days to solve this problem. It was almost an impossible mission," Hoa said.

The pile options were selected, a pile drilling machine with a capacity of over 100 tons was used, stepped structure measures were applied, and machinery and equipment were moved in the direction of the wind to ensure safety.

The problem of positioning the structural parts of the foundation, beams, and braces has been solved one by one by many solutions that require creativity and feats to turn what seemed impossible into possible.

Challenges on each stone

But making the project's foundation, beaming, and bracing structure was not the most difficult problem. Positioning the statue's shell and the new stone installation were the most daunting challenges.

According to architect Pham Thanh Quang of Sun Group's Design Management Board, the team considered many materials.

Ultimately, green sandstone was chosen with the desire to create a lasting work of art, despite higher costs and much more difficult construction compared to conventional materials.

Nguyen Van Chung from Da Viet Trung, the contractor supplying stones for the project, said this was the first time in Vietnam that such sandstones were used to build a Buddha statue.

Sandstones are formed from sand grains, including silica, a part of limestone. Carving sandstone requires craftsmen with highly skilled techniques and sharp eyes to use hammers and chisels to cut away unnecessary parts, retain the most beautiful lines, and infuse soul into each stone.

The Maitreya Bodhisattva Statue has a height of 36 meters, a maximum width of 45 meters, a surface area of 4.651 square meters, and a weight of 5.112 tons.

The construction team spent months scouring the country, in all large and small quarries, to find stones that guaranteed quality for a lasting project.

Each stone was carefully selected, checked for color and marble, then carved according to the design template with a length of 100120 centimeters, an average height of 70 centimeters, and a thickness of 50 centimeters.

To shape the statue, each stone was also stacked on top of each other to create winding curves resembling terraced fields in highland areas. This required every flat surface and edge to be meticulously aligned and precise during the fabrication process.

"With each stone, we meticulously hand-carved them as if creating a sculptural masterpiece," Chung shared.

Finding stones and carving stones were painstaking tasks, but the stone assembly process was truly a challenge.

Architect Pham Thanh Quang said that the team's architects and engineers had to learn and apply BIM design technology to implement the construction plan.

"All structural items and stone slabs were 3D modeled, then carefully marked in order before being precisely crafted and assembled into a complete block."

The construction team put the last stone in place. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

From ancient Egypt to the roof of southern Vietnam

Many statues around the world are cast in concrete, sculpted on rocky mountainsides, or even cast in solid gold.

However, a giant statue assembled from thousands of sandstones of various sizes is a first in Vietnam and indeed extremely rare globally.

This easily evokes thoughts of how the ancient Egyptians built the pyramids with limestone and granite blocks stacked symmetrically, nearly perfectly geometrically.

To this day, the methods of transporting millions of tons of stone and constructing this wonder remain a mystery.

As the direct coordinator of design and construction, Bui Nhat Thi, Head of the Design Coordination Department of the project, revealed that each stone had its own unique installation method, including being stacked in a pyramid style.

Three tower columns and five robots were used to transport and install each stone, each weighing nearly one ton. The stones were sequentially numbered by layer to ensure accurate positioning during construction.

Visitors admire the Maitreya Bodhisattva Statue on Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh Province. Photo courtesy of Sun Group

"In addition to controlling through drawings, we also had to position each stone according to the format to ensure that each stone's margin of error was not exceeded by one centimeter," Thi said.

According to Thi, the most complex stone assembly is in locations such as the nose, lips, and two hands of the statue. Engineers had to employ an extremely sophisticated method, namely hanging the stones upside down.

"I have never seen anything like it because not only does each stone weigh up to a ton, but it also requires absolute precision to ensure the peaceful and joyful aura of the Maitreya Bodhisattva statue. For each stone hung upside down in difficult positions, sometimes it took us 34 days to complete," Thi said.

According to Thich Le Trang, Head of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) Executive Board in Ho Chi Minh City, it can be said that this is a masterpiece not only of Vietnam but also of the world, as there has never been such an exquisite work.

Maitreya Bodhisattva statue in figures

Height: 36 meters

Weight: 5,112 tons

Surface area: 4,651 square meters

Altitude: over 900m

Completion time: 270 days
Trinamul Congress chairperson Mamata Banerjee will start her campaign for the Lok Sabha elections from Krishnanagar on Sunday. She will address a rally at Sukanta Sporting playground in Dhubulia for the Trinamul Congress candidate for the seat, Mohua Moitra. The Lok Sabha election in north Bengal will start from 19 April and generally Miss Banerjee starts her campaign from the areas where elections are first held.

However, she has broken the convention and will kick off her campaign in Krishnanagar, in what is being seen as a sign of the partys full support for Ms Moitra, whom the BJP has seemingly gone out of its way to cause trouble for. Ms Moitra was expelled from the outgoing Lok Sabha in December 2023 after the Parliamentary Ethics Committee, headed by BJP MP Vinod Kumar Sonkar, held her guilty of unethical conduct and contempt of the House by sharing her Lok Sabha credentials with unauthorised persons.

Recently, Directorate of Enforcement officials had raided her fathers flat in south Kolkata and her party office in Krishnanagar. Ms Moitra has approached the Election Commission over this, alleging that the raid had affected her campaigning. There had been reports in some sections of the media that the TMC has distanced itself from Ms Moitra, which were proved wrong when Ms Moitra was fielded by the party for the second time. Miss Banerjees decision to start her election campaign from Ms Moitras constituency has further put paid to that speculation.

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Miss Banerjee had criticised the role of ED in conducting raids at Ms Moitras fathers flat and her office while the electoral Model Code of Conduct is in force. Miss Banerjee had criticised the arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and earlier of Hemant Soren, chief minister of Jh- arkhand. She will address the gathering at Dhubulia at 12 noon. The district administration held a meeting to discuss her security arrangements. She will go to Nadia by helicopter. The BJP has fielded Rajmata Amrita Roy against Ms Moitra. She belongs to the family of Raja Krishnachandra.
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Power a Clean Future Ohio (PCFO) is thrilled to celebrate the addition of the City of Akron as its 50th member community. This achievement represents . . .
Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will have to submit daily reports on deployment and movement of central forces in West Bengal to the home ministry from Friday, 21 days before the first phase of the seven-phase general elections starts in three parliamentary constituencies of Cooch Behar (CB), Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri, in the state on 19 April.

Its learnt that the Delhi office of the CRPF has directed its counterpart in Kolkata that the concerned officer of the central forces would brief the home ministry about deployment and movements in connection with area dominations in West Bengal every day through email and a hardcopy.

The ministry wants to keep itself updated about the central force movements in the state so that proper utilization of the forces can be done promptly as and when the situation demands.

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CRPFs Delhi office is keeping in regular touch with the state administration and chief electoral officer (CEO) Ariz Aftab to decide deployment of central forces in the state.

Earlier, during rural polls in 2023 in the state, BSF had monitored deployment and movement of central forces.

Already, 150 companies of central forces have been deployed in the state, from 1 March, much before the announcement of dates of Lok Sabha (LS) polls on 16 March, as a confidence-building measure among people.

While addressing in a press conference in the city, a couple of weeks ago, the chief election commissioner, Rajiv Kumar had assured of proper deployment and utilization of central forces.

The commission has again on Monday requisitioned 27 companies of central forces, in addition to the 150 companies already deployed in the state.

The decision on the additional forces, expected to arrive in the first week of April, was taken after Tuesdays scuffle between supporters of Union minister of state for home Nisith Pramanik and Bengal minister Udayan Guha in Dinhata in CB district.
Trinamul Congress has written a letter to the Election Commission of India demanding action against BJP candidate Dilip Ghosh for his derogatory remark against Mamata Banerjee.

Making a snide remark on the chief minister, Mr Ghosh has questioned the parenthood of Miss Banerjee.

Addressing the media, finance minister Chandrima Bhattacharya said the statement of Mr Ghosh has exposed the hollowness of Modis guarantee that the BJP does not respect women.

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She said an eight member delegation will meet the Election Commission tomorrow demanding action against Ghosh. It is amazing to note that the national women commission has not uttered a single word on the matter.

Mrs Bhattacharya said, BJP has a long tradition of insulting women. Before 2021 Assembly election Modijis call didi o didi was an insult to Miss Banerjee. The people of Bengal had rejected the saffron party in the election. We have not forgotten Unnao, Hathras, abuse of women wrestlers and release of the alleged rapists of Biklis Bano, she said adding, earlier Ghosh had questioned the ancestry of Maa Durga.

She urged the voters of Burdwan Durgapur not to vote for a foul-mouthed person. As he has been driven out from Midnapore, he has lost his balance and senses.

Two ministers from the district, law minister Moloy Ghatak and panchayat minister Pradip Mazumdar have condemned his comments on a woman, who has been elected three times chief minister of the state and urged the voters to teach him a lesson while casting their votes in Burdwan Durgapur Lok Sabha seat on 13 May in a video message today.

He has been a former state president of the BJP and from 4 June, people will know him also as a former MP. BJP shunted him to Durgapur seat out of fear of losing. To be in the headlines, Dilip Ghosh has started shooting from his mouth, alleged law minister Moloy Ghatak.
Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel on Wednesday flagged off critical life support ambulances to King Georges Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow, donated by Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited in association with Impact Guru Foundation under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment.

These state-of-the-art cardiac ambulances are equipped with specialised equipment, trained personnel and Advanced Life Support (ALS) capabilities and are designed to respond quickly to traumatic emergencies and transport patients to trauma centers or hospitals.

Over the next few weeks, this initiative will be extended to charitable hospitals including MY Hospital, Indore; Karnataka Lingayat Education Society (KLES), Belagavi; Jivan Jyot Trust Hospital, Surat; and Jeevan Rekha Critical Care & Trauma Hospital, Jaipur.

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Himanshu Nivsarkar, Senior EVP and Head  CSR, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd., said Under our CSR commitment, we strive to improve healthcare accessibility, ensuring every individual has access to quality healthcare when they need it the most. Through this initiative, we aim to provide 247 services to medical and trauma related emergencies, bridging as a life-saving link between the patient and the healthcare facility.

Sundeep Talwar, CEO, Impact Guru Foundation said: This collaboration with Kotak Mahindra Bank, providing advanced life support ambulances to King Georges Medical University, signifies significant progress in realising our vision of universal healthcare. Under this partnership, our aim is to extend support to more hospitals with such ambulances, saving more lives together.

KGMU Vice Chancellor Prof Sonia Nityanand expressed her gratitude while flagging off the ambulances. She said: These ambulances for Public Health and Wellness will bring down fatalities and reduce turn-around time to bring patients to the hospital without delay.
After Congress, the BJP is facing rebellion after it announced the names of Congress defectors to contest bye-elections on the six Assembly constituencies.

The candidates include Rajinder Rana (Sujanpur Assembly constituency), Sudhir Sharma (Dharamshala), Ravi Thakur (Lahaul-Spiti), Inder Dutt Lakhanpal (Barsar), Devinder Kumar Bhutto (Kutlehar) and Chaitanya Sharma (Gagret).

The bye-elections are scheduled to be held simultaneously with the Lok Sabha elections on June 1.

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The dissidence in the party is palpable with the BJP MLAs, who contested elections on these seats in the Assembly elections 2022, openly punching holes in the partys policy, showing their angst for being ignored.

Dharamshala BJP leader Rakesh Chaudhary, who contested on a BJP ticket in 2022 Assembly elections, had lost to four-time Congress MLA and minister Sudhir Sharma by 3,285 (5.47 per cent) votes.

Resigning from various posts of the BJP, he stated that he had been wronged.

Talking to the media on Wednesday, he said his strength is his supporters and he would contest elections if the people want him to do so, even if it means to fight as an independent candidate. I had no idea that BJP would field Sudhir Sharma from Dharamshala. As far as I had known, Sudhir Sharma was to be given the ticket to contest Lok Sabha elections from Kangra, whereas I was to contest from Dharamshala. I had left no stone unturned to work honestly for the party. This is unfortunate, he added.

On Tuesday, former BJP minister and MLA Ram Lal Markanda from Lahaul and Spiti, along with his supporters, announced his mass resignation along with his supporters.

The BJP now allotted ticket to Congress turncoat Ravi Thakur to contest from Lahaul-Spiti. Thakur had won from Markanda by 1616 (8.59 percent) votes in 2022 Assembly elections.

Markanda announced that he is ready to contest elections as an independent candidate or on some other party ticket.

Markanda, justifying his revolt, said that the future of the Lahaul-Spiti is at stake and he would not shy away from taking any step, even if it meant quitting the party to re-contest the elections.

Meanwhile, Senior BJP leader and three-time Member of Parliament (MP), Maheshwar Singh expressed his disenchantment with the party for picking up Bollywood actress Kangna Ranaut to contest the Mandi parliamentary elections.

There is unrest and chaos in the Mandi parliamentary constituency. I have conveyed my displeasure and the rebellion of the people of the constituency through the Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur who met me yesterday, for allotting ticket to the candidate who had not been the primary member of BJP and has also not contributed in any way for the party, he said.
Bruce Springsteen, the iconic rock legend known affectionately as The Boss, is set to have his life story immortalized on the silver screen. According to The Hollywood Reporter, talks are underway for Jeremy Allen White to step into the shoes of Bruce in a biopic based on Warren Zanes 2023 book, focusing on the creation of Springsteens seminal 1982 album, Nebraska. Scott Cooper is helming the adaptation, with Gotham Group overseeing production.

Springsteens impact on music is undeniable, with his electrifying live performances still drawing fervent crowds. Nebraska preceded his chart-topping masterpiece, Born in the U.S.A., by two years, showcasing his unparalleled talent and storytelling prowess.

In addition to the buzz surrounding his biopic, Bruce Springsteen has another reason to celebrate. Hes been named the first international songwriter to receive the prestigious Ivors Academy Fellowship, joining the ranks of music luminaries like Sir Paul McCartney and Kate Bush. The ceremony, slated for May 23 in London, will honor his profound contributions to music.

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Expressing his gratitude, Springsteen remarked, Im proud to be the first international songwriter to be recognized by The Ivors Academy. In addition to recognizing my songwriting, the award stands as a tribute to the fans and friends who have supported me and my work for the last 50 years.

Tom Gray, Chair of The Ivors Academy, echoed the sentiment, stating, There is no one more fitting than Bruce Springsteen to be the first international songwriter inducted into our Fellowship. Songwriters are powerful storytellers, who capture our lives, loves, and hardships. Bruce has always told the greatest stories.

Despite facing health challenges in 2023, Springsteen and the E Street Band recently made a triumphant return to the stage in Phoenix, marking the reboot of their postponed world tour. The tour was initially delayed due to Springsteens recovery from peptic ulcer disease, but the legendary guitarists resilience and passion for music have once again taken center stage.

As fans eagerly anticipate both his cinematic journey and prestigious accolade, Springsteens enduring influence on music and culture remains as potent as ever.
Saudi Arabia is set to make history by participating in the prestigious Miss Universe pageant for the very first time, marking a significant milestone for the conservative Islamic nation.

The exciting news was revealed by Rumy Alqahtani, a seasoned beauty pageant contestant and influential figure, who took to her Instagram account to share the groundbreaking announcement. Alongside captivating images showcasing her glamorous persona, Alqahtani expressed her deep honor in representing Saudi Arabia on the global stage of the Miss Universe 2024 competition.

In her Instagram post, adorned with elegance and poise, Alqahtani wrote in Arabic, I am honored to participate in the Miss Universe 2024 competition. This is the first participation of Saudi Arabia in the Miss Universe competition, encapsulating her pride and enthusiasm for this unprecedented opportunity.

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Hailing from Riyadh, Alqahtani is no stranger to the limelight, having previously participated in various international pageants, including the recent Miss and Mrs Global Asian event held in Malaysia. Her journey reflects not only personal achievement but also a broader cultural shift towards greater inclusivity and representation on the global stage.

The Miss Universe pageant, renowned for its celebration of diversity and beauty from around the world, crowned Miss Nicaragua Sheynnis Palacios as its 2023 winner, marking a historic moment for Nicaragua. The event saw contestants from diverse backgrounds, with Antonia Porsild from Thailand and Moraya Wilson from Australia securing the second and third positions, respectively.

Looking ahead, the anticipation builds as the organizers of the Miss Universe pageant announced that the upcoming edition will be hosted in Mexico, further underscoring the international appeal and reach of this iconic event.

As Saudi Arabia prepares to make its debut on the Miss Universe stage, the participation of Alqahtani symbolizes a progressive step towards embracing diversity and empowering women within the kingdom and beyond. With her grace, confidence, and determination, Alqahtani embodies the spirit of empowerment and representation, paving the way for a new chapter in the nations history.
The overall security situation, particularly on the borders with China and Pakistan, and the lessons to be learnt from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts will be high on the agenda of the upcoming Army Commanders Conference here.

The conference, first for the year 2024, will be organised in virtual mode on 28 March and thereafter in physical mode on 1-2 April. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also address and interact with senior military leadership during the conference.

The conference serves as a pivotal forum for the apex leadership of the Indian Army to brainstorm conceptual issues and review and assess the overall security situation. It will lay down key priorities facilitating important policy decisions, to chart the course for future direction.

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Starting on 28 March, the conference will be chaired by the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Manoj Pande at New Delhi with Army Commanders participating in virtual mode from their respective Command Headquarters.

The deliberations will be on critical agendas impacting the field army and veterans welfare. The conference will also feature talks by distinguished Subject Matter Experts on the evolving geopolitical landscape and ramifications for national security.

During the conduct in physical mode on 1 April, the Armys top leadership will engage in intensive brainstorming sessions. The sessions will be aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness, the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability and investing in training and development programmes to ensure readiness for future challenges.

The brainstorming session will also encompass issues concerning the welfare of service personnel aimed at enhancing the quality of life for soldiers and their families. This will be followed by a meeting of the Investment Advisory Committee of Army Group Insurance, chaired by the COAS, and attended by several experts in the field of financial management. The committee will deliberate on various welfare measures and schemes for the financial security of serving soldiers, veterans and their families.

On 2 April, the defence minister will deliver a keynote address. The senior hierarchy of the Army will also be addressed by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral R Hari Kumar and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari.
A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sandeshkhali survivor-cum-BJP candidate in Basirhat, he had a telephonic talk with Rajmata Amrita Roy, BJP candidate against Trinamool Congress nominee Mahua Moitra in the Krishnanagar Lok Sabha constituency in West Bengal.

Mr Modi told Ms Roy that he is exploring legal options to ensure that the money looted from poor people in West Bengal and attached by the Enforcement Directorate, is returned to them, along with the attached assets.

In a swipe at the Opposition bloc INDIA, the Prime Minister said while the BJP was committed to uprooting corruption from the country, the forces standing on the other side of the political divide were corrupt and had ganged up to save each other.

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The Prime Minister told the Krishnanagar candidate that he was convinced that Bengal will vote for Parivartan (change) again in the state.

Ms Amrita Roy has been pitted against expelled Trinamul Congress MP and firebrand leader, Mahua Moitra, from Krishnanagar. Ms Moitra was recently disqualified from the Lok Sabha following an Ethics Committee panel report on allegations of cash-for-query against her.

On Tuesday, the Prime Minister had spoken to one of the forerunners of the Sandeshkhali protests, Ms Rekha Patra, and called her Shakti Swaroopa for her courage to expose the suspects.

The Prime Minister in his campaign raised several times the issue of womens empowerment and their embodiment of divine power against evil forces.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) moved the Election Commission of India against Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, alleging a violation of election model code of conduct.

In a letter addressed to the Election Commissioner of India, the party has requested the Commission to direct Sanjay Raut and Uddhav Thackeray to tender an unconditional public apology to the Prime Minister and the people of Gujarat.

Also, order the immediate filing of an FIR and criminal investigations against Sanjay Raut under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Representation of People Act 1951, as mentioned in the letter.

We wish to draw your urgent attention to a statement made by Sanjay Raut, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), against Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing a party meeting in Buldana district of Maharashtra in the presence of his party president, Uddhav Thackeray, the letter stated.

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Sanjay Raut, an MP and leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), tragically departed from the standards of respectful and dignified communication, thereby transgressing legal statutes and undermining fundamental principles of political discourse. His egregious comparison of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the historical figure of Aurangzeb, a ruler infamous for his despotic tendencies and oppressive rule, is not only unacceptable but also profoundly disrespectful, it added.

This comes after Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut likened PM Modi to Aurangzeb while addressing a rally in Buldhana in the Vidarbha region.

He had said that while Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha empire, was born in Maharashtra, Aurangzeb was born in present-day Gujarat, the home state of PM Modi.

There is a place called Dahod (in Gujarat) where Modi was born, and Aurangzeb was also born there. So this Aurangzebi attitude is marching towards Maharashtra from Gujarat and Delhi, and also against Shiv Sena and our self-respect. Dont say Modi has come, say Aurangzeb has arrived. We will bury them, Raut was quoted saying.
The BJP on Wednesday released its seventh list of two more candidates for the ensuing Lok Sabha polls.

The Central Election Committee (CEC) of the BJP finalised the list which includes one candidate for Maharashtra and one for Karnataka.

The party has fielded independent Lok Sabha member Navneet Rana as its candidate from Amravati (SC) parliamentary constituency in Maharashtra.

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The BJP has fielded former Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister Govind Karjol from Chitradurga (SC) Lok Sabha seat in the state.

Rana, a first-time Member of Parliament (MP) had successfully contested Amravati Lok Sabha seat in 2019, reserved for Scheduled Castes.

Lok Sabha polls in Maharashtra will be held in five phases on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13 and May 20. Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats.

Karnataka, which has 28 Lok Sabha seats, will vote in two phases on April 26 and May 7.
In a country where there is a constant shortage of electricity power supply, you need a power bank with a humongous output. And the Oraimo 20000mAh Power Bank is one of the names that keep popping up.

Many say it can keep your devices juiced up for a whole day. We will come to that in a bit.

But how much does it cost? what is the Oraimo power bank 20000mAh price in Nigeria?

Well, that should be around 12,500 to 16,500 although it depends on where you are buying it from.

Also, there are different models with varying prices. Aside from that the Oraimo 20000mAh Power Bank offers much more than just power.

Oraimo Power Bank 20000mAh Price In Nigeria

Power Bank Specifications

Battery Cell Type: Lithium battery

Capacity: 20000mAh (74Wh)

Input1 (Type-C): DC 5.0V 2A

Input2 (Micro USB): DC 5.0V 2A

Output1 (USB): DC 5.0V 2.1A Max

Output2 (USB): DC 5.0V 2.1A Max

Dimension: 15778.522mm

Charging Speed: 1A Fast Charging

LED Torch

3D Texture

Color: BlackITEL

Different Oraimo Power Bank 20000mah And Their Prices In Nigeria

Here is a tabular representation of the prices of the top 5 Oraimo 20000mAh power banks:

Power Bank Models Prices () Oraimo Traveler 4 20000mAh 2.1A 11,500 Oraimo Traveler 2 Byte 20000mAh 13,600 Oraimo Pilot 20000mAh 2.1A 13,000 Oraimo Pilot Byte 20000mAh 12,700 Oraimo Traveler 4 Pro Quick Charge 20000mAh 13,780

Bare it in mind that either of these prices could rocket due to the constant dollar fluctuation. But, these are current prices at the time of writing this article.

And the question you all have been antsy to ask is: why should you buy any of these power banks?

Well, besides its monstrous 20000mAh capacity, here are five convincing reasons:

1. Fast Charging

The Oraimo power bank charges your devices incredibly FAST. only supports fast charging but also intelligently switches charging modes when detecting low-current devices like wireless earphones and smartwatches, preventing any potential damage to the devices.

With dual ports featuring Oraimos high-speed charging technology, it efficiently charges two devices simultaneously, ensuring all your gadgets are ready for use.

2. Elegant Case

Design-wise, these 20000mAh power banks have a modern look  a classic 3D texture that is stain and scratch-resistant.

On top of that, it has both Type-C and Micro USB charging ports. This gives you options.

3. Longevity

You can use these banks for more than 5 years without any complaints.

The 20000mAh power banks are built to stand the taste of time without depreciating on the power supply or losing its integrity.

4. Availability

You can literally walk into any Oraimo outlet, demand for this bank, and you will get it.

Since their reputation precedes them, Oraimo products are also readily available in other retail stores.

As such, finding these products wont be difficult. Moreover, you can order from Jumia, Slot, or Konga and have it delivered to your doorsteps.

5. Reassuring Warranty

The best part is they offer a one-year warranty on all their products.

If something goes wrong within that time, you can take it back to where you bought it, and theyll either fix it or give you a new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Power Bank Reduce Battery Life?

Power banks are designed to complement and extend the battery life of your devices.

When used correctly, they dont typically reduce the battery life of your gadgets. Its important to use a high-quality power bank and adhere to proper charging practices.

Avoid overcharging or completely depleting your devices battery regularly, as these habits can contribute to overall battery health.

Will Overcharge My Oraimo Power Bank Spoil It?

Oraimo power banks, like many reputable brands, incorporate advanced protection features to prevent overcharging.

Overcharging is generally not a concern with modern power banks, as they are designed to automatically regulate the charging process.

However, its advisable to use the provided Oraimo charger or a trusted one to ensure compatibility and maintain the health of your power bank.

What Can Spoil a Power Bank?

Several factors can negatively impact the lifespan and performance of a power bank.

Using incompatible chargers, exposing the power bank to extreme temperatures, physical damage, or using it beyond its specified capabilities can lead to issues.

Its crucial to follow the manufacturers guidelines regarding usage, charging, and storage to prevent damage and ensure longevity.

How Long Does The Oraimo 20000mAh Last?

The lifespan of the Oraimo 20000mAh power bank depends on various factors. With proper care and usage, Oraimo power banks are known for their durability.

Its essential to avoid prolonged periods of complete discharge or full charge and follow recommended charging practices.

Regularly using and recharging the power bank while avoiding extreme conditions can contribute to its long-lasting performance.

Additionally, adhering to the manufacturers instructions for maintenance and warranty information can help maximize its lifespan.

Conclusion

In summary, ensuring your devices stay active throughout the day is an investment worth any price.

From a brand that has solidified its place among the industrys finest, one can only expect top-notch quality.

And the 20,000mAh Oraimo power bank stands as the ideal solution, boasting unquestionable durability that ranks among the very best.

To add to the peace of mind, should you encounter any issues within the warranty period after purchase, a hassle-free return process awaits you at any of their outlets.

With Oraimo, its not just about the price; its about a commitment to excellence and reliable power for your devices.
A delegation of Delhi BJP led by its president Virendra Sachdeva on Wednesday met Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora and submitted a complaint against Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Sachdeva apprised the Police Commissioner that the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is under custody of investigative agency Enforcement Directorate (ED) and lawfully he cannot issue any note or letter to any minister or people but every other day ministers of Kejriwal are showing in press conferences letters written to them by him.

Investigation agency has said that it has not allowed Arvind Kejriwal any access to pen, paper or computer, hence the letters being shown by ministers are suspicious and fake, he claimed.

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The Delhi BJP chief urged that Delhi Police should in public interest inquire the matter and bring the truth of the misleading letters in public domain.

Sachdeva was accompanied by Delhi BJP media head Praveen Shankar Kapoor, spokesperson and advocate Amit Tiwari, among others.

It may be mentioned that the Delhi BJP chief has been demanding resignation of the chief minister after the ED arrested him in the Delhi liquor policy case.

Earlier, he said, Delhis conscience is now awakened. Today the people of Delhi understand that Kejriwal has committed a scam, that is why he is in custody.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED), on Wednesday, initiated an investigation into the alleged dubious transactions between Kerala the firm of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayans daughter Exalogic Solutions, and Kochi-based mining company Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL).

The Kochi unit of the ED registered an Enforcement Case Investigation Report (ECIR)  similar to a First Information Report (FIR) in criminal cases  against Veena Vijayans company under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 and started a probe into the transactions.

The anti-money laundering agency conducted preliminary investigations into the matter before registering the ECIR.

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The Central agency acted on the basis of a report by the Income Tax Interim Settlement Board (ITSIB) in August 2023 stating that Veena and her firm had received Rs 1.72 crore as monthly payments from the CMRL despite no evidence of any services given in return.

The ED probe will include the individuals and entities on the record of the ITSIB order. Besides Veena Vijayan, the role of CMRL and the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC), which holds 13.4 per cent shares in CMRL, will also come under the ambit of probe.

The ITI SB report revealed that the CMRL had paid money to other political leaders and trade union leaders as well. The ED investigation is also likely to cover others who received money from the CMRL.

The probe by the ED coincides with an ongoing investigation by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO).

The Karnataka High Court in February dismissed the petition filed by Exalogic Solutions, owned by Veena Vijayan questioning the action of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) ordering a probe by the the SFIO into the affairs of the company.

The MCA had told the court that Illegal payments made to the extent of Rs 135 crore by the CMRL to various political functionaries and certain other entities, including Exalogic, had necessitated the probe.

Earlier this month, the SFIO issued notices to firms and establishments that were involved in financial transactions with the firm Exalogic Solutions, owned by Veena Vijayan.

The notices were issued under section 217(2) of the Companies Act, based on the inspections conducted on the bank accounts of Exalogic Solutions.

The SFIO asked these companies to produce all the documents related to the transactions made by them with the Exalogic Solutions at the SFIO office at Chennai by March 15. It is learnt around 12 companies have received notice from the SFIO in Kerala alone.

It asked these companies/institutions to produce copies of contracts, work orders, and invoices related to products or services provided by Exalogic Solutions.

The SFIO reportedly found that more than 10 firms had done substantial translations with Exalogic Solutions during 2016-17.

The ITISB earlier found that the Cochin-based Cochin Minerals and Rutile Ltd (CMRL) paid 1.72 crore to CMs daughter Veena Vijayans firm EXalogic Solutions without providing any service to them.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he was glad that Garba of Gujarat, a traditional dance form from India, has been included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. The PM informed that the Certificate of Inscription was presented a few days ago in Paris.

Garba is a celebration of life, culture and devotion. It also brings people together. It is gladdening to note that Garbas global popularity on the rise! Sometime ago, Garba found a place in the @UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. I am glad that the Certificate of Inscription was presented a few days back in Paris. At the same time, a memorable Garba Night was also held in Paris, which was attended the Indian community in large numbers, he said in a tweet on X.

PM Modi also shared some photographs of people enjoying the Garba dance, along with a copy of the UNESCO certificate.

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Garba is a celebration of life, culture and devotion. It also brings people together. It is gladdening to note that Garbas global popularity on the rise! Sometime ago, Garba found a place in the @UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. I am glad that the Certificate of pic.twitter.com/h5gmEFZsWn  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 27, 2024

Garba of Gujarat was inscribed in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity by UNESCO, under the provisions of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage during the 18th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage from December 5-9, 2023, in Kasane, Botswana, as per the Ministry of Culture.

According to the Ministry of Culture, Garba of Gujarat is the 15th ICH element from India to join the list.

Garba is a ritualistic and devotional dance that is performed on the occasion of the of Navaratri festival. The dance takes place around a perforated earthenware pot lit with an oil lamp, or an image of the mother goddess Amba.

Participating dancers move around the centre in a counter-clockwise circle, using simple movements while singing and clapping their hands in unison.

(With ANI inputs)
Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari on Wednesday said that Balakot-like operations in which Indian planes raided terrorist camps in Pakistan in February 2019 have shown that given political will, aerospace power can be effectively carried out beyond enemy lines.

Addressing a seminar on Aerospace Power in Future Con . in Future Conflicts, he also said that as nations increasingly rely on space-based assets for building strategic advantage, militarisation and weaponisation of space has become an inevitable reality.

Balakot-like operations have shown that given the political will, aerospace power can be effectively carried out beyond enemy lines, in a no-war, no-peace scenario, under a nuclear overhang without escalating into a full-blown conflict, the air chief said.

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He said that skies have often been regarded as realms of wonder and exploration, where dreams take flight and boundaries dissolve into the vast blue expanse.

ACM Chaudhari said, As we navigate these uncharted skies, air power being a key component of national power, would undoubtedly play a pivotal role and also serve as a symbol of national strength, a tool for peace and cooperation.

The IAF chief mentioned that future conflicts will be characterised by a blend of simultaneous application of kinetic and non-kinetic forces, high-levels of battle space transparency, multi-domain operations, a high-degree of precision, enhanced lethality, a compressed sensor-to-shooter cycle, and of course, all under intense media scrutiny.

Meanwhile, ACM Chaudhari visited the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), Delhi Campus on Tuesday. The C-DOT is the premier Telecom R&D centre of the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, Government of India. It is actively working on developing indigenous, secured telecom solutions, for critical infrastructure such as defence communications & Cyber Security.

The air chief interacted with senior officials of C-DOT and stressed the need for better synergy between C-DOT and the Air Force for integration of futuristic and advanced secured communication solutions in the wake of changing landscape from network centric to data centric in modern warfare.
Owner of the internationally acclaimed Jehanuma Palace Heritage Hotel of Bhopal, Nadir Rashid (72), reportedly committed suicide by shooting himself with his revolver at his residence here Wednesday morning.

According to Bhopal Commissioner of Police Harinarayan Chari Mishra, the family informed police officials about the incident at around 9.30 am. The official said the body was sent for postmortem to the Hamidia hospital.

The police said Nadir Rashid shot himself dead with his revolver in the bathroom of his house, Shyamla Kothi, located in the posh Nadir colony atop Shyamla Hills, not far from the state chief ministers official residence.

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According to sources, Nadir Rashid was in depression for the past six months as he was developing Parkinsons disease and was undergoing treatment for that.

Nadir Rashid was related to the erstwhile ruling Nawab family of Bhopal and also to the Nawabs of Pataudi. The Jehanuma Palace is an award-winning five-star heritage hotel.

The police did not find any suicide note yet and further investigations were on in the matter.
Swami Smaranananda Maharaj, president of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, died in Kolkata at the age of 95 due to age-related ailments on Tuesday night, the mission said in a statement.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his heartfelt condolences on the passing away of Shrimat Swami Smarananand Ji Maharaj.

Taking to the social media platform X on Wednesday, the Chief Minister lamented the profound loss to the spiritual community. He conveyed, The passing of the esteemed President of Ramakrishna Mission, Swami Smaranand Ji Maharaj, deeply saddens us and marks an an irreparable loss to the spiritual world.

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The Chief Minister offered his sincere tribute and extended his deepest condolences to the followers and family of the departed soul. May the departed saint find eternal peace at the divine abode, and may the Ramakrishna family find the strength to endure this huge loss, he wrote on X.

Swami Smaranan assumed office as the 16th President of Ramakrishna Mission in 2017.

He was admitted to Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan in Kolkata on January 29th due to an infection, which subsequently led to respiratory complications. His condition worsened, requiring ventilator support from March 3rd onwards, and he passed away on Tuesday night. Eminent figures from across the country have expressed their sorrow at his demise.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths relentless efforts to enhance law and order in Uttar Pradesh over the past seven years are poised to wield significant influence in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections in the state, giving an edge to the ruling BJP over its rivals.

The absence of a single riot in the last seven years of the government headed by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the guaranteed safety of women and traders and effective action against mafias and gangsters as well as significant transformation brought about in Uttar Pradeshs security landscape since 2017 are likely to play a vital role in helping voters in making their choices during the LS elections in the state.

It is worth mentioning here that the states law and order dynamics were instrumental in securing CM Yogis victory in the 2022 Assembly elections as well.

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Now, as the 2024 General Elections approach, this same factor could wield significant sway in Prime Minister Narendra Modis quest to clinch a substantial number of seats, notably aiming for a resounding victory, potentially securing as many as 80 seats for the third consecutive time.

Sources here on Wednesday said owing to the strict implementation of a zero-tolerance policy towards crime and criminals, Uttar Pradesh has not experienced a single instance of communal violence in the past seven years.

From November 2019 to November 2023, illegal assets worth over Rs 3723 crore belonging to 68 identified mafia dons and gang members were confiscated and destroyed.

Furthermore, measures were taken to seize assets valued at over Rs 4268 crore from various other mafia groups under the Gangster Act from January 2021 to October 2023.

Over the period from March 2017 to November 2023, a total of 22,301 cases were registered under the Gangster Act, resulting in the arrest of 70,879 accused individuals.

Additionally, assets exceeding Rs 120 billion were seized. During this timeframe, 192 criminals were killed in encounters, while 5800 sustained injuries.

In comparison to the year 2016, significant reductions in crime have been recorded in Uttar Pradesh until the year 2023.

There was a decline of more than 87 per cent in dacoity, more than 72 per cent in robbery, 40 per cent in murder cases, 68 percent in kidnapping for ransom cases and 24 percent in rape cases.

Similarly, extensive preventive action was taken from 2016 to 2023, recording 4 per cent increase under the Arms Act, 26 percent increase under the NDPS Act, 23 percent under the Gangster Act, 31 per cent under the Goonda Act, and 32 percent under the Excise Act.

Ensuring the safety of women has been a top priority for CM Yogi, and significant efforts have been made in the state in this regard.

A total of 1698 Anti-Romeo squads have been formed, which have registered 21,422 cases across the state. Women help desks have been established in all 1584 police stations of the state and Women Cyber Crime Cells in 18 zonal offices.

Notably, from March 2022 to November 2023, 12855 accused were sentenced in cases of crimes against women and under POCSO Act.

The death penalty was given to 16 accused, life imprisonment to 1298, over 10 years of imprisonment to 3422, and up to 10 years of imprisonment to 8119.

To curb crimes against women and children and raise awareness about their safety, 10,378 womens beats were formed in 1518 police stations of the state, with a total deployment of 15,130 female personnel.

During their patrols, women beat personnel resolved 63,175 complaints and provided necessary assistance through counseling to 60,790 victims.

Additionally, Women and Child Safety Organization (WCSO) was established by consolidating 1090, Mahila Samman Cell, Police Women Assistance Cell. Besides, 1090 was integrated with UP 112 while 80 new terminals and data analytical centers were also established.

 Kumbh Mela 2019

 Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple foundation laying ceremony 2020

 Inauguration of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham Corridor 2022

 Consecration of the Lord Ram idol and inauguration of Ram Temple 2024

 In addition to these, all major religious, political, and social events such as Holi, Shab-e-Barat, Shri Ram Navami, Ambedkar Jayanti, Eid-ul-Fitr, Jagannath Rath Yatra, Bakrid, Shravan month/Kanwar Yatra, Muharram, Shri Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Deepotsav, and Dev Deepawali were also successfully organized.
After a nearly 40-hour operation, on 16 March, the Indian Navys INS Kolkata accompanied by INS Subhadra, employing sea-guardian drones and air dropping marine commandos from a C17 aircraft, led to the rescue of Maltese flagged MV Ruen from the hands of Somali pirates, who had seized the ship in December last year and were planning to exploit it to further their piracy.

The incident occurred 2,600 km from the Indian coast. It led to the arrest of 35 pirates and release of 17 hostages, including 7 Bulgarian nationals. The C17 aircraft flew for 10 hours to complete the mission, displaying interservice cooperation, while seaguardian drones were controlled from an almost similar distance. The navy issued a simple statement mentioning, (the operation) highlights the commitment of the Indian Navy towards reinforcing peace and stability, and also to thwart the resurgence of piracy in the region. The navy has currently deployed two warships in the Gulf of Aden and 10 in the Northern and Western Arabian Sea to monitor strategic waterways following increased attacks by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea and piracy by Somali pirates.

Piracy has returned to the region after a gap of almost six to seven years. Some of the navys successful rescue operations in recent months include that of the Iranian Fishing Vessel (FV) Al Naeemi, with 19 Pakistani nationals from Somali pirates in end January. Another piracy attempt on FV Imam was also thwarted around the same time. On 23 December last year, MV Chem Pluto suffered a drone attack outside Indias Exclusive Economic Zone. The damage was assessed, ship repaired and towed to an Indian port. In January this year, MV Genco Picardy was supported when it suffered a drone strike in the Red Sea. Indian ships alongside those of the US and France rescued MV Marlin Luanda when it came under attack from anti-ship missiles fired by Houthi rebels. There have been many more incidents involving missile strikes and hijacking which have been thwarted by the navy.

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Speaking to reporters in Goa, the naval chief, Admiral Hari Kumar stated, We are committed to ensuring there is peace at sea. We will not allow piracy to resume. We are aggressively targeting it. We will not allow the Indian Ocean to be disturbed, especially with regard to trade. The job of a Navy is to protect peaceful shipping. His words indicate that the navy has proved that it is a responsible net security provider in the Indian Ocean. Successful rescue operations by the navy received worldwide praise. The Bulgarian foreign minister, Mariya Gabriel, thanked India for the rescue of MV Ruen. She tweeted, I express my gratitude to the Indian navy for the successful operation to rescue the hijacked vessel Ruen and its crew members.

Thank you for support and great effort. The Indian foreign minister, Dr S Jaishankar, responded, Thats what friends are for. A similar message was sent by the Bulgarian President, Rumen Radev, which was replied to by PM Modi. The global media also praised the actions of the Indian navy in rescuing and supporting ships in trouble. Europe based historian and researcher, Martin Sauerbrey, tweeted, India takes over. Superpower rising. Stop drooling over China. British journalist Mark Urban criticized China for not responding to distress calls. It was only after being globally chastised that the Chinese navy began escorting their own ships.

Writing in The Diplomat, James Holmes mentions, It is fitting for India to act as a steward of maritime security in the Indian Ocean, where it regards itself as a beneficent hegemon. He adds that India did not join the US led coalition due to its tradition of non-alignment. He further states, New Delhi could make India the constable of the Indian Ocean. Though India is not part of the US led Multinational Force in the Red Sea termed Operation Prosperity Guardian, it has cooperated with naval vessels from different countries depending on the situation. Indias trade worth US $200 billion flows through the Red Sea and hence attacks on shipping there are a matter of concern. Another possible reason for India not joining the US-led force is its close ties with Iran, which backs the Houthis. Enhanced naval deployment indicates the ability of the navy to protect Indian interests as also provide confidence to global shipping transiting the region.

With the opening of a new naval base, INS Jatayu, in the Minicoy islands, strengthening its facilities in Andaman and Nicobar, enhancing its engagements with Mauritius, induction of MH 60 R helicopters and US manufactured drones, the ability of the navy to monitor sea routes will enhance. India is sending the message that it has the ability to secure the Indian Ocean from any threats. Jaishankar summed up Indias intent, stating, We will not be considered a responsible country when bad things are happening and we say I have got nothing to do with this. Similarly summing up the increased role of the navy, the defence minister, Rajnath Singh, mentioned, increasing naval power not only protects us from our adversaries, but also provides an environment of security to other stakeholders in the Indian Ocean. Admiral Hari Kumar highlighting the navys role mentioned that the force, under Operation Sankalp, in the past 100 days has saved 110 lives. It responded to 13 attacks, rescuing 102 individuals including 27 Pakistanis and 30 Iranians.

Indias determination to assist all in trouble, ignoring nationalities, is an indicator of the country considering the Indian Ocean as its backyard as also being impartial in its operations. The Indian government, enacting the Anti-Piracy bill in Jan 2023, bringing the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea under its ambit, has added teeth to antipiracy operations. Indias increased naval deployment and successful operations are an indicator of its growing naval power, confidence in its equipment and ability to coordinate multiple resources employed simultaneously to monitor an area spread over 2 million square miles. It is a message to inimical nations that the region is Indias backyard and it possesses the capability to dominate it. If piracy has to be curbed and eradicated, the Indian navy will have to continue playing a major role.

(The writer is a retired Major-General of the Indian Army.)
In a surprising turn of events, India has extended its ban on onion exports indefinitely, sending ripples through both domestic and international markets. This decision comes amidst the backdrop of an upcoming general election, adding a layer of complexity to an already contentious issue. The onion, a staple vegetable in many households, holds significant economic and political weight in India. As the worlds largest exporter of onions, India plays a crucial role in stabilising global onion prices and meeting the demands of importing nations such as Bangladesh, Malaysia, Nepal, and the United Arab Emirates. The abrupt extension of the export ban has left traders and importers scrambling to find alternative sources, leading to higher prices and supply chain disruptions in several countries. The rationale behind the extension remains elusive. While local onion prices have witnessed a significant decline since the imposition of export restrictions, the governments decision to prolong the ban defies market expectations.

With the onset of the new season crop, which promises ample supplies, many had anticipated a lifting of the export ban. However, the governments insistence on maintaining the status quo raises questions about its priorities and motivations. There is some speculation that the extension may be politically motivated, aimed at garnering support from onion-producing states ahead of the upcoming elections. Thus, policymakers may be inclined to prioritise short-term political gains over long-term economic considerations. By placating domestic onion farmers and consumers, the government may be seeking to bolster its electoral prospects even at the expense of international trade dynamics. The repercussions of Indias decision are already being felt across the region. Import-dependent nations, reliant on Indian onions to meet their domestic demand, now face the prospect of higher prices and supply shortages. The lack of alternative suppliers capable of filling the void left by India further exacerbates the situation, leaving importers at the mercy of market forces beyond their control.

Furthermore, Indias decision to extend the export ban has inadvertently created opportunities for rival exporters to capitalise on the vacuum in the market. With fewer options available, importers may be forced to turn to expensive alternative sources, potentially reshaping the global onion trade landscape in the long run. In light of these developments, it is imperative for policymakers to reassess their approach to managing onion exports. While short-term measures may yield some dividend, the long-term ramifications on international trade relations and market stability cannot be ignored. A balanced approach that takes into account both domestic interests and global obligations is essential to navigate the complexities of the onion trade effectively.

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Ultimately, Indias extension of the onion export ban underscores the intricate interplay between politics, economics, and international trade. As the world watches, the ramifications of this decision are likely to reverberate far beyond the borders of the Indian subcontinent, shaping the future of the global onion market for the foreseeable future.
Many skeletons are tumbling out of the cupboards of election bonds and many more will, highlighting the unholy nexus between political parties and businesses. The petitioners in this Supreme Court (SC) case, Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Common Cause, deserve our highest appreciation. Of course, parties will innovate to find other opaque avenues to extort funds from businesses in return for quid-pro-quo, which is a problem every democracy is struggling with.

The vicious power of money is what makes politics so dirty that common people stay away from its arena, leaving it free for the criminals and their ill-gotten wealth to rule the roost, a reason why politics is not a preferred option for ordinary people, especially the educated youth, who abhor the presence of criminals in their proximity. That politics breeds and nurtures rascals and scoundrels may be an overused cliche but not untrue. Our Parliament and State Assemblies are packed with criminals patronised equally by all parties. Some of them sometimes go to jail to spend a few pleasant weeks or months away from the hullaballoo of daily politics, but rarely does anybody get convicted. Some fight elections from behind bars and still manage to win, some are released on bail to change sides and re-enter the legislature with an implicit assurance of protection by the powers that be. ADR data disclosed that in the last Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Manipur and Goa, 309 out of the 689 MLAs (45 per cent) have criminal cases registered against them.

ADR analysed over 200,000 records of candidates and winners since 2004 to find that the proportion of winning candidates without any criminal charge was only 12 per cent, while those with serious criminal cases constituted 23 per cent. As per ADR data of 2023, of the 4,001 legislators in 28 states and 2 UTs across India, 44 per cent are facing criminal charges, almost a mirror-image at the Centre where 43 per cent of the Lok Sabha MPs elected in 2019 have criminal charges against them, as against 34 per cent in 2014, of committing serious crimes like murder, attempt to murder, rape, kidnapping etc.

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The role of money in politics becomes even more apparent from the fact that the assets of 71 MPs re-elected to the Lok Sabha between 2009 and 2019 have increased threefold. As per the Supreme Court (SC) ruling in Lily Thomas & Others vs. Union of India (2013), any legislator who is convicted of a criminal offence and given a minimum two-year sentence would cease to be a legislator, reversing the earlier position in which convicted members could retain their seats before exhausting all judicial remedies. In 2014, in Manoj Narula vs. Union of India & Others, the SC had observed that the entry of criminals into politics must be restricted, making it incumbent on the PM and CMs not to appoint a legislator as minister against whom charges had been framed by a criminal court.

To introduce transparency and accountability in the political system, in 2013, the Central Information Commission had declared six national parties as public authorities, thereby bringing them under the purview of the RTI Act, but it has not prevented the lawbreakers from becoming lawmakers. In 2018 and 2020, the SC had issued directives to political parties to disclose criminal histories of their electoral candidates, besides requiring them to provide reasons for nominating such candidates regardless of their perceived chances of winning. The Election Commission (EC) has further issued directives to ensure the implementation of the courts orders regarding the declaration of candidates criminal backgrounds and has all such data in its possession. But parties often fail to comply and persistently neglect their public disclosure obligations, while the EC takes no serious exception.

The question that baffles us is why voters vote for such tainted candidates and Bahubalis with serious criminal charges? Studies point out the obvious causal relationship between criminals-packed legislatures and subsequent lower economic growth and poor provision of public services. But somehow, voters seem to be indifferent to or even prefer criminality in elected officials. Voters may prefer criminals because of the expectation that they are better equipped to use legal or extralegal means to fulfil their election promises. Or, maybe, voters dont have information about the precise nature of criminal charges, in the absence of which they dismiss the issue as mere political vendetta. Poorly informed voters lack the ability to effectively screen candidates, relying instead on the candidates distributive policy preferences as implied by their ethnicity or religion.

A 2011 study found that low information availability to voters is an important factor, but a 2020 study on Bihar elections found no dependence on voters preferences for criminal candidates with their castes, pointing to institutional and governance factors being responsible for the behaviour. ADR conducted an All India Survey on Governance Issues and Voting Behaviour in 2018, in which 36 per cent of respondents were willing to vote for such candidates if they had done good work in the past, though 98 per cent were against sending candidates with criminal background to the legislatures.

The ADR Report Analysis of Sitting MPs from Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha of India 2023 (September 2023) gives details about the assets and criminal charges of the sitting MPs of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha individually. Though the information is available in the public domain and can be accessed by anyone with an internet connection, most voters would be unaware of this, and even when aware, may not be inclined to download and study the data before voting for a particular candidate, especially because the probability of an individuals vote determining an elections outcome is vanishingly small. For the same reason, voters may not be particularly interested in navigating to the EC website to access information about criminality and assets of candidates, which are freely available.

I came across a study, Coordinating Voters against Criminal Politicians: Evidence from a Mobile Experiment in India (2018), conducted by Siddharth George, Sarika Gupta and Yusuf Neggers from the Ford School of Public Policy, University of Michigan, during the 2017 assembly elections in UP. The study attempted to find if a different approach to information provision like mobile text or voice messaging can help address the information gap and then influence downstream voting behaviour, given the deep mobile penetration in India. UP has a large voter base; though 80 per cent of it is rural, more than 85 per cent households possessed at least one mobile phone.

The Assembly elections were spread across seven different phases, and researches took place during phase 4, in which 53 of the total 403 constituencies were covered, involving 116 candidates. They chose 38 constituencies in which 35 per cent of candidates were facing criminal charges, of which 40 per cent faced serious criminal charges. All parties had fielded criminal candidates. BJP won a landslide victory with 312 seats, in which 107 or 27 per cent of the winners had serious criminal charges against them. Two days before election day, researchers started sending voice and text messages to mobile phone subscribers in Hindi.

A typical message would be like: This message is from an unbiased, non-political NGO, Centre for Governance and Development. Get to know your candidates correctly, and on Election Day, give your vote only after thinking carefully! In your area: 1. Mr. XXX from BSP (elephant party) has 1 criminal case, with attempt to murder charges. 2. Mr. YYY from BJP (lotus party) has no criminal cases. 3. Mr. ZZZ from Congress (hand party) has 3 criminal cases, but has no violent charges. There were 3,800 villages in these 38 constituencies and 5,000 polling stations, with each village having around 1,200 voters on average. Villages were divided into two groups, two-thirds belonging to the Control Group to whom no message was sent, and one-third to the Treatment Group that received the messages. Villages were randomly assigned to these groups to ensure internal validity.

The researchers sent messages to more than 450,000 individuals in the Treatment Villages. Data for subscribers and their locations were collated from the Census, Election Commission, mobile companies and ML Infomap company. From the election results, compared to the control villages, it was seen that voters responded positively to the information provided ~ votes for candidates with severe criminal charges dropped by 7.7 per cent and votes for candidates with no charges increased by 6.7 per cent.

Overall turnout also increased by 1.6 per cent. The effects were seen to be strongest when the information was coupled with a coordination treatment, in which individuals were informed that many other voters were also receiving the message. It was estimated from regression analysis that without the intervention, criminal candidates would have received 6 per cent higher vote share than non-criminal candidates. Several lessons can be drawn from this study. First, it is not enough to have information in the public domain, especially in a large country lagging in internet literacy. It is equally important to inform voters and it is very much possible for the Election Commission which has the necessary wherewithal to inform each voter about their candidates criminality, assets, liabilities and education.

Informing voters through mobile messages is an efficient, quick and inexpensive exercise; all Indians were receiving Viksit Bharat messages till the EC stopped those. In addition, such information must be displayed at every election booth, as was done in local body elections in 2017 in Maharashtra, MP and Haryana as an experiment. Knowledge is power, and empowering voters with knowledge about candidates has the potential to cleanse our political system of the twin evils of money and criminality

(The writer is a commentator, author and academic. Opinions expressed are personal)
ELKO  The U.S. Energy Department has awarded a $95 million grant to Nevada Gold Mines to develop a solar photovoltaic facility and battery storage system to provide power to three NGM gold mines in Northeastern Nevada.

This funding is part of a package of $475 million in grants for five projects in Nevada, Arizona, Kentucky, Pennsylvania and West Virginia to accelerate clean energy deployment on current and former mine land.

The Clean Energy Demonstration Program on Current and Former Mine Land received $500 million through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to demonstrate the technical and economic feasibility of deploying clean energy projects on current and former mine land across the country. These demonstration projects are intended to provide models for mine land development and community engagement that can be used by the private sector to unlock the potential of mine land for siting clean energy projects.

The details of NGMs solar project are still being worked out, but the solar power and battery storage facility, often called solar farms, are expected to eliminate up to 3.5 million tons of mining operations emissions over the projects lifetime, and to support around 300 full-time jobs during the construction phase, along with internships, mentorships, technical training, scholarships and apprenticeships to expand access to mining and energy jobs in Nevada. The Department of Energy said the project is expected to demonstrate a replicable way the mining industry could reach net-zero carbon operations by 2050.

Solar in Nevada is booming, and this grant funding will create new jobs and spur clean energy generation across the state, Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada said. Ive advocated for programs to help support our mining industry while curbing emissions, because I know how critical these investments are to our rural economies and for a sustainable future.

Nevada has the most solar jobs per capita in the nation, which is why Ive been leading bipartisan efforts in the Senate to support our states solar industry, Democratic Nevada Sen. Jacky Rosen, who is running for re-election this year, said. Im proud to announce major funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, that I helped write and pass, is coming to Nevada to bring clean energy to our mine sites through solar power and battery storage.

A news release from the Energy Department on this grant program said, Developing clean energy projects on mine land provides an attractive economic alternative to using undisturbed natural and agricultural land. Mine land is often located near critical infrastructure that makes it suitable for clean energy development, including electric substations, transmission lines, and access to roads or railroad lines. Projects ultimately selected for award have the potential to be replicated and scaled on the millions of acres of current and former U.S. mine land.

The other four projects being funded through this grant program cover a range of different clean energy technologies.

Funding is going to two of Freeport-McMoRans active copper mines in southeast Arizona to deploy direct-use, geothermal, clean heat combined with a battery energy storage system. This project is intended to help decrease the mines reliance on onsite thermal backup generators while supporting the annual extraction of 25 million pounds of copper previously considered unrecoverable.

The other three projects receiving funding are on former Appalachian coal mines. The project in Pennsylvania proposes to convert former coal mine land to a closed-loop, pumped-storage hydroelectric facility. The project in Pennsylvania plans to repurpose nearly 2,700 acres of former coal mining land to support the largest solar project in the state, which will generate enough clean energy to power more than 70,000 homes. The project in West Virginia plans to repurpose two former coal mines with a utility-scale, 250 megawatt solar photovoltaic system that will power approximately 39,000 homes.

The five projects are expected to create a total of more than 3,000 good-paying construction and operations jobs.
Many Japanese protesters, amid heavy rainfall, gathered on Tuesday in front of the Prime Ministers residence to rally against the governments eased defence equipment transfer rules and further relaxation of arms export control.

Seen as a significant defence policy shift and another step contrary to the countrys pacifist constitution, the Japanese government decided at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday to lift the ban on exporting the next-generation fighter jets set to be jointly developed with Britain and Italy to third countries, Xinhua news agency reported.

On Tuesday, the updated guidelines of the three principles on transfer of defence equipment and technology, which would enable the fighter jet shipments, was approved by the Cabinet led by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida after Japans ruling coalition, the Liberal Democratic Party and the Komeito Party, on March 15 agreed on the revised export rules.

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Chanting slogans such as No Weapon Exports, Strongly Oppose Becoming a Warring Nation and Listen to Peoples Voice, local protesters voiced their concerns against Japans increasing involvement in the global arms trade, accusing the government of disregarding constitutional principles and the will of the people.

Among the protesters stood Mizuho Fukushima, head of the Social Democratic Party of Japan. She criticised that the Constitution of Japan, the Article 9 of which prohibits the export of weapons, has been gradually eroded.

The decision to export the next-generation fighter jets overseas was made without any discussion in the parliament but solely among ruling parties. We are strongly against it, she said, adding that the Japanese public do not want Japan to become a merchant of death.

Her point was echoed by Koji Sugihara, representative of a local citizens group named Network Against Japan Arms Trade.

Its as if the Article 9 has been completely disregarded, leaving only its remnants, he told Xinhua news agency.

This would be the first time that lethal combat aircraft are being exported overseas, and the decision was made clandestinely. What kind of democracy is this? Its a farce! Sugihara said with much anger.

The modification of the guidelines of the three principles is to pave the way for Japan to engage in comprehensive weapon exports, commented Atsushi Koketsu, emeritus professor at Yamaguchi University of Japan.

He also doubted the procedure of Tuesdays revision is lawful, stressing the fact that the government forced the revision through a cabinet resolution without any public discussion raises serious concerns about the possibility of further amendment.

While the government claims that exporting the next-gen fighter jets to third countries is to protect the safety of the Japanese people, but such a move, by blatantly denying the pacifist constitution, would instead draw Japan into conflicts, the scholar told Xinhua news agency.
Wikileaks founder Julian Assange faces a further wait to find out whether he can bring an appeal against his extradition to the US, the British High Court ruled on Tuesday.

According to the ruling, a decision on the appeal has been adjourned to May 20 as the court is seeking assurances from the US, including that Assange could rely on the First Amendment to the US Constitution and that he would not be sentenced to death if convicted, Xinhua news agency reported.

If those assurances are not given, then leave to appeal will be given and there will then be an appeal hearing, a summary of the judgment said.

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Speaking outside the High Court in London, Assanges wife Stella Assange said she is astounded by the courts decision to delay her husbands appeal.

What the courts have done has been to invite a political intervention from the US, she said.

I find this astounding.
A large suburban Philadelphia county has joined dozens of other local governments around the country in suing the oil industry, asserting that major oil producers systematically deceived the public about their role in accelerating global warming
Have an interesting bit of news youd like to see mentioned in the Along the Way column? Email it to Bella Ramirez at bramirez@thesunchronicle.
ELKO  With menu items like Honey Nut and Gooey Nut and Facebook update posts with colorful verbiage such as SPREAD the WURD like BUTTA on a BISCUT: Its our BURFDAY, Elkos Nuts Under a Buck food trailer leaves a memorable mark wherever it goes.

Often seen at Elko Countys community events, such as at the Convention Center or Chamber of Commerce, Nuts Under a Buck celebrated its second anniversary this month.

Run by John Dudley and his wife Katie Dudley, the business offers homemade treats including doughnuts, bagels and apple cider slushies. They also craft liquor nuts for adult customers.

When an attempt at lighting his wood stove left him with severe burns, John Dudley spent two weeks in the ICU. The burns affected over a quarter of his body and 17% of them were second-degree and third-degree burns of his lower extremities.

Still, in the middle of March he drove the Nuts Under a Buck trailer to the Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry in Virginia City, which he described as the biggest St. Patricks Day celebration west of the Mississippi, with over 10,000 visitors this year.

He said his legs were still recovering while he attended the festival. Fortunately, his wife was there to offer support.

On March 21, Katie Dudley posted a Facebook update about how her husband is doing.

Doc said today that the burns are closed. He said the wounds look fantastic. He doesnt need bandages and wound care now, she said. While John Dudley has to wear compression pants for at least 10-12 months and attend physical therapy for possibly over a year, his recovery is evident.

John Dudley said his favorite locations to take his trailer around Elko are the Home Depot and Little League games. Nuts Under a Buck sponsored Spring Creeks Little League Team in 2023.

After every game, we gave out free donuts, win, lose or draw, he said, along with high-fiving the young players.

He said he also enjoyed participating in the Halloween celebration at Elkos assisted living facility, where seniors received free treats.

Running a food truck or trailer is an all-consuming responsibility, John Dudley explained. There are no days off. Days off just means that you dont see the public. All the behind-the-scenes stuff to make it happen, they have no idea about. For one, he said he has to handle hundreds of pounds of frosting regularly. Nuts Under a Buck prepares frosting from scratch, using natural fruit purees.

Just to break down the doughnut machine and put it back together is a six-hour process. When we run events, were closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Sunday afternoon, the donut machine gets broken down. After soaking all night, the machine is cleaned and put back together on Monday morning.

Cleaning the trailer and weighing donut mix are also a normal part of the weekly chore list.

While Nuts Under a Buck started with just four flavors, the couple now run three menus depending on which event they attend, John Dudley explained.

He said his goals for the business are to attend larger events and travel further. The couple were recently tapped to attend the Tri-County Fair near Redding, California. I built the trailer so that everything on there was stable for a year and didnt have to be refrigerated when I traveled, he explained. Ive always been in a position where I traveled a lot. I was a Northwest territory manager for corporate America and had all the northern North Pacific states up there, so I was always traveling.

Nuts Under a Buck also contributes to local charities. The couple are a part of the Northern Nevada Moses Project board.

We love giving back to the community, John Dudley said. Weve helped a lot of people along the way and well get thank yous and hugs and its awesome.

What was most amazing was when Elko community members, including local food trucks, came together to donate money to his recovery, John Dudley said.

Nuts Under A Buck will attend the 2024 Eggstravaganza at the Elko County Fairgrounds on Saturday.
FILE - A sign markss he Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, March 6, 2014, near Carlsbad, N.M. Top officials gathered Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in southern New Mexico to mark the 25th anniversary of the nations only underground repository for radioactive waste resulting from decades of nuclear research and bomb making.
The Supreme Court seems likely to preserve access to a medication that was used in nearly two-thirds of all abortions in the U.S. last year, in the courts first abortion case since conservative justices overturned Roe v. Wade two years ago
Russia strikes Ukraine's Kharkiv with aerial bombs for the first time since 2022

Ukrainian officials say Russia has struck the northeastern city of Kharkiv with aerial bombs for the first time since 2022, killing at least one civilian and wounding 16 others
This image provided by Murrieta, Calif., Police Dept. shows an altered photo of a suspect used by the The Murrieta Police Department. The Southern California police department has been handcuffed by Lego after the Danish toy company asked the agency on March 19, 2024, to stop editing Lego heads over suspects' photos on social media.
A former top Rhode Island official has agreed to pay a $5,000 to settle an ethics fine for his behavior on a Philadelphia business trip last year
Speaker of the Parliament of Finland Jussi Halla-aho (L) and National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue. (Photo: VNA)

This is the first official visit of the Speaker outside Europe since he took office, demonstrating Vietnam's special position in Finland's foreign policy and the excellent friendly relations between the two legislatures. It was also a high-level exchange activity marking the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Finland diplomatic ties (1973-2023).

During his stay, Halla-aho held talks with NA Chairman Hue and met with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and permanent member of the Party Central Committees Secretariat and head of the Party Central Committees Organisation Commission Truong Thi Mai.

The two sides concurred on the need to explore new directions, approaches and impetus to further deepen bilateral relationship. They agreed to promote the exchange of delegations at all levels and across the Party, State and NA channels to enhance political trust while strengthening collaboration at multilateral forums in pursuit of stability, peace and sustainable development.

Within the framework of multilateral cooperation, they agreed to maintain contact, coordination and mutual support at global and regional parliamentary forums such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Asia-Europe Parliamentary Partnership Meeting (ASEP).

They vowed to enhance the monitoring of the effective implementation of international treaties and cooperation agreements signed between the Governments, ministries, agencies and localities of the two countries; as well as facilitate stronger business-to-business and locality-to-locality connections.

The two countries will fully tap the benefits from the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), especially in areas of their demand and strengths such as hi-tech, green development, environment, agriculture, forestry and information technology.

On global and regional issues of shared concern, the two sides affirmed their readiness to cooperate bilaterally and at multilateral forums based on respect for international law and the United Nations Charter, for the sake of peace, stability and development in the region and the world, including the East Sea./.
Everyone will agree that a watch is a classy style statement, and more if you are wearing a timeless piece. When it comes to class, Rolex is among the top choices that people have. In fact, all billionaires, actors, sportsmen, and rich people have multiple Rolex watches in their collection. At the same time, Rolex replicas are also in high demand, and you will be surprised to know the variety and quality of these watches.

Replica watches are trendy because they are an inexpensive way of enjoying luxury. But, they are not necessarily for low-budget people; sometimes, it is a choice not to spend thousands of dollars on one watch, especially when you can have dozens of them for the same price. These days, the replica watch industry is at its peak, and there are so many sellers that do not compromise on quality. But knowing where to find them could be a problem, especially if you have already been scammed and have trust issues with replica watch sellers online.

Today, you will get to know two websites that deal with A+ Rolex replica watches, among many other popular brands. You can book your order without a hint of doubt, and this article will give you multiple reasons to build trust in these sellers. No more time wasted; let's get straight to the sellers, see who they are, and explore what they offer.

Best Rolex Replica Watches For You

There are probably hundreds of websites dealing with replica watches, and there is no limit to them. Those that are ranked highly by the customers and are often suggested to the newbies are somehow only a few. If you are also new to online fake Rolex shopping, it is probably ideal to know the vendors other people are suggesting. Having your options narrowed down is the basic you can start with. And this way, choosing your perfect and best Rolex replica watch gets easier.

Here are two sellers that you should consider to buy your first premium fake Rolex.

1) PrestigeWatches.co

2) IconicReplicas.co

Before heading to the website and exploring the options, you need to know the reason for making these two your go-to stores. Let's start exploring them one by one.

Prestigewatches.co (Premium Fake Rolex Seller With Super clone Quality)

There are many reasons behind the demand for Rolex watches, one of which is the elite touch that it gives to the one wearing it. Believe it or not, a Rolex shining on your wrist will make your personality more noticeable, and price can certainly not be the reason behind you not being able to get a Rolex. If not real, you can always find a premium Rolex replica, and PrestigeWatches has plenty of options for everyone.

All watches here exhibit the finest quality that you can get for this price. Compared to other sellers, the variety of watches here is remarkable. Almost all hit codes are available here, and you can surely like something that meets your requirements here. The website has been around for a while now, and it is among the best Rolex replica sellers now. People are talking about it, loving the watches it sells and returning with new orders now and then.

If you need to find the Best Rolex replica in the UK and US, PrestigeWatches is one reliable place. The watches delivered to customers are exactly the same as the pictures show. The description is right; the quality is unmatched. Most importantly, the prices are very reasonable, and there are different discounts and offers that the website runs.

In addition to fake Rolex, you can find watches from other luxury brands, including Patek Phillip, Richard Mille, and many others. These watches are perfect for a personal collection, and they also make an excellent gift option for someone you deeply care for. Just like the real watches, you get a box and accessories with the choice of watch you made. The whole experience is very delightful, plus the watches you get would last for years.

Click Here to Visit The Official Webpage to Explore the World of Premium Replica Watches

Read the following to get an idea of what to expect when you are trusting PrestigeWatches for your next purchase.

Impressive built quality

Do you know what is better than a Rolex replica? A Rolex replica that no one can catch because it is 100% identical to the real design. All the watches sold here have something that could shut off the questions coming from people around. The alluring beauty, attention to detail, coating, straps, movement, everything is so accurate that no one would know it's not real. Plus, this quality lasts more than your imagination, and you are able to flaunt the Rolex for years.

Easy to explore webstore

It is hard for many people to order things online, due to the complexities of the website. Coming out as a surprise, the complicated websites do not attract an audience. In fact, the simpler sites are more customer-friendly. For this reason. Prestigewatches.co is designed with a simple layout. Everything that you are looking for is right in front of you. Choose the category of the watch you are interested in, or explore all one by one if you are open to options.

Watches for every occasion

This website is a hub of different types of watches, catering to the best-selling designs from leading watchmakers. Whether you need something to do with casual attire or are looking for a timeless wrist piece for a special occasion, there are plenty of options here. Plus, new watches are continuously added, so the option pool is always overflooded.

Real testimonials and pictures

The fake sellers often hide the review or comment options on the website. Missing testimonials is a major red flag if you are considering a new website. Prestigewatches.co has real statements from the customers, including the pictures of watches they have received, adding legitimacy to these reviews. Going through them makes it very clear that the quality of these watches is much better than any other Rolex replica seller UK , the watches are durable, and the customer service is top-notch.

Easy refund and return policy

The website does not keep the customers hanging after making a profit from their sales. It has an incredible customer protection plan that includes returns, exchanges, and refunds. The customer can change the watch if they find it damaged. If the watch is not up to their liking or it is different from the pictures the website has displayed, they can return the order and get a full refund of their order.

Fast and discreet delivery

It is very rare to see a Rolex replica seller caring so much about the customers. The orders placed here are handled on high priority. The delivery time is shorter than most other sellers. And the most amazing thing is that the packages are sent with complete discretion so that the customers do not have to pay extra charges for customs. Also, it protects the integrity and trust of the customers. If they do not want people around to know about the replica purchase, no one can possibly know it, because of the unrecognizable packing.

Economical prices and discount offers

The prices here may look a little high because you compare them with a low-quality, cheap Rolex replica sold at local shops. If you want quality, it is definitely going to cost you something. Lucky, Prestigewatches.co does not overcharge, and the price you pay is totally worth the watch you will be receiving. If you are a frequent shopper, you may end up witnessing discounts too, that the website offers from time to time. Save money and buy as many watches as you want without exceeding your budget.

Active customer care team

This Rolex replica seller has an active customer care team so that the customers do not have to suffer. They can share their questions and concerns with the team. Based on the situation, they would be provided with the best remedy.

Official Website: www.prestigewatches.co

Whatsapp Support: +44 7532 719161

Phone: +15203792909

E-mail: prestigewatches.cs@gmail.com

What to Expect After Ordering?

Usually, the processing time for the orders is between 24 and 48 hours, after which the order is dispatched from the warehouse. The delivery time is different for every order, depending on where it is sent. The international order would take a little longer for delivery. You can track your parcel using the code provided when the order is confirmed.

The watches are delivered in boxes that the real watch companies use. They may not be the same quality, but they are pretty close. Plus, you will find the accessories, like cards, inside this box too. It is advised to put the watch in this box after using it so that it is not accidentally damaged.

Once you receive the order, do not forget to leave a review. If you need help regarding an exchange or refund, feel free to talk to customer support.

Click Here To Check Premium Rolex Replica Catalog of PrestigeWatches

2. IconicReplicas.co

The next seller is the one that will not disappoint you with online Rolex replica shopping is IconicReplicas.co. You will find premium luxury watches here, including those rare pieces that are hardly available anywhere. The impeccable designs quickly grab attention, and to be honest, some of these watches are a very hard pass.

The watches can give you an extravagance, especially if you want to look extra. From casual to formal, there is a huge variety of watches. The prices are to meet the average budget for watch shopping, and if you are lucky, you may find a discount too.

Considering the customer experiences, IconicReplicas.co has a high satisfaction rate. People are happy with their purchases, and there are absolutely no complaints. Orders, refunds, and exchange offers are smooth and easy-going.

All you have to do is choose the watch you like the most, read about it and put it in the cart. There are a bunch of payment options to choose from, and once the order is confirmed, you will get an email. The delivery takes a fast route, plus you can always track it, within the comfort of your home. For questions, talk to customer care, as they are more than happy to assist the customers. Also, read about the returns in case you are not satisfied with the watch in hand and want your money back.

The variety may not be as huge as PrestigeWatches.co, but it is good if you like keeping your options limited. These watches are delivered with original-like boxes and accessories, so they make great gifting options too. All in all, buying from this seller will not only get you the Rolex replica you always wanted but also, you will find a trusted place to buy premium replica watches for life.

Best Rolex Replica For 2024: FAQs

There is a lot of confusion regarding fake Rolex watches, which can make your watch shopping difficult. Here are a few things that would clear your mind, and you can freely shop your favorite Rolex replica from trusted sellers.

Why do you need a fake Rolex?

Luxury watches are trending, but the price can be an issue for many people with a regal taste. To satisfy that, the replica companies came forward, and within a short time, they turned into big businesses with a lot of clientage. Affordable luxury that you can trust is something that replica watches can provide. Plus the online sellers have made it even more convenient to own these watches, that you do not have to take out time for hunting them at local stores. All these reasons provide a ground for the popularity of replica watches in these times.

How long do Rolex replica watches last?

It may come as a surprise that replica watches are neither cheap nor low quality. If you have purchased a premium replica watch, it can last for years. Wearing a luxury watch over the years is more convincing than anything that you own, a real one. It is because replica watches usually break down or tear off after a few uses. So you need to spend your money on something that is durable and high-quality.

Can you buy a Rolex replica locally?

Replica watches are available at local stores, but the local ones are small-scale businesses with limited watches. Plus, the built quality is average, which cannot fool people. Premium replica watches, especially Rolex replicas, are available online. Operating online cuts the cost of franchise, staffing, and maintenance, so the variety and quality they offer is a lot better than local stores.

Yes, Rolex replicas are available locally. But the quality in the local shops is neither satisfactory nor extraordinary. If you want an exact copy of real Rolex designs, choose a top-rated Rolex replica vendor such as P res tigeWatches .

How to spot a fake Rolex?

Spotting a fake Rolex is super easy unless someone is wearing a premium replica or super clonecopy, which is identical to the real ones. Most fake watches are weightless, untidy, and built with cheap materials. They do not give the look of extravagance that real watches do. If you need a watch that no one can spot as a replica, buy from PrestigeWtaches.co and keep everyone in suspense.

Are online Rolex reviews real?

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Jaipur is always a good idea. Those who have visited the city come back often. The lure of staying in a haveli hotel is unmatched, more so since the ones in Jaipur are rather economical. Moreover, it is unarguably the biggest home for arts and crafts in India ever since 1727, when the then monarch of Amer, Sawai Jai Singh II, founded the city using vastu shastra (principles of design) and shilpi shastra (principles of the arts) to build the worlds most beautiful city. He even invited artisans and craftsmen from across Indiajewellers, painters, silversmiths, carpet weavers, dyers and printersto make Jaipur their home.

The tradition continues. The most beautiful of everything in India is almost always found in Jaipur. It is thus one of Indias most popular tourist hubs and, thanks to its growing industry being Rajasthans capital, has a large expatriate population. The current maharaja, so to speak, Padmanabh Singh, from the former royal family, is doing his best to boost foreign tourism here. His mother, the beautiful Diya Kumari, is tipped to be the next chief minister after the upcoming assembly elections.

Digvijay Shekhawat, Sunita Shekhawat and Niharika Shekhawat

Sunita Shekhawat is a well-known jewellery designer based in Jaipur. To celebrate her 25 years in the business, she put together The Museum of Meenakari Heritage (MOMH), which opened this week in the Pink City. I wanted to be able to give back to the city that has given me so much, Shekhawat says. Her children, Niharika and Digvijay, are also rather hands-on with their mothers enterprise. The museum is truly a vision of the people, for the people and by the people, Shekhawat says.

Dr Usha Balakrishnan

The museum has been curated by the well-regarded scholar, author and jewellery historian Dr Usha Balakrishnan, whose mastery of story-telling and research is evident on the walls just as Shekhawats mastery in enamelling is showcased in the jewellery. I had approached Dr Balakrishnan for the ground floor space, and she suggested using it as a private gallery. As designers, we are very dependent on artisans, people need to see the beauty of what they can make with their hands from up-close, and understand the importance of their craft, Shekhawat says.

We are lucky to have a walk-through tour of the gallery with Dr Balakrishnan herself. Sunita has revived the art of minakari so beautifully, I thought it would be appropriate to tell the history of the art here, Dr Balakrishnan, wearing a handloom sari and her grandmothers ruby-encrusted hair ornament, tells me.

Minakari enamelling is more than 2000 years old, there's evidence of it in Greece, Mesopotamia and Etruscan cultures. Then it went through a lull and died out in Europe; it was revived in the Byzantine period again, during the Ottomans. But in India, in the excavations of Taxila and Sirkap, two enamelled necklaces were discovered which are now in the national museum. One is white and the other is light blue enamels. This was in the first century; then right up to the 16th century, there is no evidence of enamelling or mention of it in any text. Its amazing that enamelling is not indigenous to India but has become such a part of its local lexicon.

It suddenly flowered with the arrival of the Portuguese in India. Netherlands, France, and Italy had many trade contacts with India, as we were such a gem and luxury textiles supplier. Cultural exchanges were bound to take place as the foreigners were all carrying their personal jewellery. Jewellery was portable and could be liquidated for cash or spices. European jewellers soon began to work in India as the country became the hub for Golconda diamonds, Burmese rubies as well as Sri Lankan emeralds.

Minakari is an ancient technique that makes intricate designs with coloured glass layered with gold. The gallery is a grandstand of what minakari work is capable of. Different techniques of enamelling like cloisonne, champleve, plique-a-jour, and basse-taille are showcased here. Many pieces are reproductions of historical pieces, such as oddly-shaped archers rings, or a sarpech (turban ornament, which is now in the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston), or drawn from jewels from miniatures. Perhaps the only gripe here is that each item on display is a reproduction. Theres nothing in the MOMH that is a genuine antique.

Jigha An ancient Sarpech reproduction, with permission from the Museum of Fine Arts, London Pendants Benaresi pink minakari

An audio-visual and a real-life showcase present how the artisans work on the jewels, where each colour of powdered glass is set to a different temperature in the kiln separately. European flowers such as poppies and irises are shown as botanicals, then as Mughal representations, and then finally as little enamels in jewels. It is all quite breathtaking and extraordinary, and hard to imagine the human hand and the eye is capable of such finesse in such small proportions.

In Europe, enamelling work was on the front and the back of jewels. In India it got relegated to the back because we used the kundan technique (gems wrapped with real gold foil before being set in the frame) in the front, Dr Balakrishnan says.

Jewellers from across India  Bijapur, Hyderabad, Awadh  all came to Goa to learn enamelling. It then went to Lahore, Delhi, Agra and the Mughal capitals. It eventually moved to architecture and textile too. Benaresi saris that use red and green extra wefts are called minakari saris.

Different regions of India discovered their own coloured palette of preference. For example, Hyderabadi minakari was simpler and less cluttered, using black with another colour. Benaresi minakari used pink as a base. Mughals discovered their own techniques too. Ab-e-lehr were waves on the gold bae, Boond tola were translucent, Ferozi Zamin was a turquoise base, Nil Zamin was a navy blue base, Sabz Zamin was green, while Safed Chalwan was white.

The Museum of Meenakari Heritage is Jaipurs newest must-do. Its a three-story flagship space spread over 2,200 square feet. It is designed by Siddharth Das Studio, which excels in museums and cultural space design, while Studio Lotus has built the edifice. Siddharths sister, actor Nandita Das is here for the opening too. As are couturiers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, well-regarded jewellery lovers and aesthetes, and acclaimed product designer Rooshad Shroff. The museum is a delight for lovers of jewellery and art, as images from the British Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Sothebys, the Al Thani collection, and the Aga Khan Museum have been sourced.
In a major setback to the Aam Aadmi Party ahead of the general elections, its lone Lok Sabha MP Sushil Kumar Rinku and Punjab MLA Sheetal Angural joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday.

Rinku, who represents Jalandhar in the lower house, switched sides despite being announced as the AAP candidate from the same seat.

Reports said he is now likely to contest the Lok Sabha elections on a BJP ticket.

"I have taken this decision for the development of Jalandhar. We will take Jalandhar forward. We will bring all the projects of the central government to Jalandhar," Rinku said after joining the BJP.

A former Congress MLA, Rinku had switched to the AAP on April 27, 2023, and a day later, was declared the AAP candidate from the Jalandhar parliamentary constituency.

Angural, an MLA from Jalandhar West, has put out a statement, saying he has resigned from all the responsibilities he had in the AAP.

Welcoming the duo to the BJP, Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri said the BJP is the largest political party in the world and people from different walks of life are joining it.

"BJP is the largest political party in the world. People from different walks of life are joining our family. I welcome Sushil Kumar Rinku and Sheetal Angural to the party. The situation is changing in Punjab and we all will work together to make India developed by 2047," Puri said.

On Tuesday, the Congress MP from Ludhiana, Ravneet Bittu, joined the BJP. Bittu is the grandson of former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh.
A day after his remarks on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee triggered a controversy, BJP leader Dilip Ghosh clarified his statements on Wednesday, claiming that he had "merely countered the political statements Mamata had given to mislead people".

Ghosh added that he had no personal grudges against the chief minister. His clarification comes as BJP president J P Nadda issued a notice seeking clarification from Ghosh regarding his remarks on West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee.



The MP's statement mocking the family background of Mamata Banerjee in a purported video clip triggered a huge controversy, with TMC alleging that he violated the model code of conduct. The former West Bengal BJP president, who is contesting from the Bardhaman-Durgapur Lok Sabha seat, mocked TMC's slogan of "Bangla Nijer Meye ke chai (Bengal wants its own daughter)". "When she goes to Goa, she says she is the daughter of Goa. In Tripura, she says she is the daughter of Tripura. First, let her clarify...," he said.



The TMC had filed a complaint to the chief electoral officer in West Bengal, alleging that Ghosh passed "disgraceful and derogatory remarks" against Mamata Banerjee. The TMC sought immediate action against Ghosh.



To this, Ghosh said on Wednesday morning: "I had merely countered and questioned the political statements she has given to mislead people. Many people have raised objections to my use of language and words. Our (BJP) party as well as other parties have called it unparliamentary. If so, I am sad about it," he said, adding that he "did not have any personal dispute, grudges or ill will towards Mamata Banerjee."



He also questioned why objections were not raised when a party leader from TMC had used foul language against BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari.



"I also want to question why no objections were raised when a TMC leader used abusive language against our senior party leader Suvendu Adhikari in Kanthi. Does our party leader have no honour? His father is a senior leader who is still alive. Kya unka maan sammaan nahi hai (is he not respected?). No one raised any objections on that note. Why was no statement given from TMC at that time?" said Ghosh.



"I have given a political statement. The issue of honour is raised only if it is a woman. The women's card is brought out again and again," stated Ghosh, adding that he will file an official reply to the party leadership.
The Centre on Wednesday summoned US Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Gloria Berbena to the Ministry of External Affairs office in Delhi's South Block in connection with the remarks made by the US on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest.

It has been reported that a 40-minute meeting was held with the diplomat.



#WATCH | The Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi summoned the US' Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Gloria Berbena, today. The meeting lasted for approximately 40 minutes. pic.twitter.com/LGjD9IvX91  ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

This came as the External Affairs Ministry released a statement objecting to the remarks of the US State Department spokesperson. "We take strong objection to the remarks of the Spokesperson of the US State Department about certain legal proceedings in India. In diplomacy, states are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. This responsibility is even more so in case of fellow democracies. It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents. Indias legal processes are based on an independent judiciary which is committed to objective and timely outcomes. Casting aspersions on that is unwarranted," the statement read.



The US said it encourages a fair and transparent legal process for Kejriwal who is in the Enforcement Directorate custody for the money laundering case linked to the liquor policy scam. A US spokesperson told Reuters that Washington was closely monitoring the reports of the arrest of the Aam Aadmi Party leader ahead of the general elections. "We encourage a fair, transparent, and timely legal process for Chief Minister Kejriwal," the spokesperson said.



The US reaction came days after Germany made a similar statement, saying the chief minister was entitled to a fair and impartial trial.



"We assume and expect that the standards relating to the independence of Judiciary and basic democratic principles will also be applied in this case," German foreign ministry spokesperson Sebastian Fischer said on Friday.

India termed his remarks an interference in its judicial process and lodged a strong protest by summoning the German deputy chief of mission in New Delhi on Saturday. "We see such remarks as interfering in our judicial process and undermining the independence of our judiciary," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
The Delhi High Court will hear a petition by Kejriwal challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money-laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam. The petition seeking Kejriwal's immediate release is listed for hearing before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma at 10.30 am.

According to the petition filed by the Chief Minister, the remand order granting the custody of Kejriwal to the ED was illegal. Though the chief minister had moved the High Court last week with his petition, his request for an urgent hearing was turned down as the high court was closed for Holi.



Kejriwal is currently in ED's custody till March 28 "for his detailed and sustained interrogation".



He had earlier filed a petition for quashing and setting aside all proceedings, including summonses, issued against him. Kejriwal had said he is a "vocal critic" of the ruling BJP at the Centre, he is an opposition leader and a partner in the INDIA bloc, and the ED, which is under the Union government's control, has been "weaponised".



The case pertains to the alleged corruption and money laundering in formulating and executing the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22 which was later scrapped. Top AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh are in judicial custody in the case.



Meanwhile, Kejriwal's wife Sunita Kejriwal is likely to address the media on Wednesday afternoon.



Complaint against protest call



A complaint has been made to the acting Chief Justice of Delhi HC against the call for protest in Delhi Courts by the legal cell of Aam Aadmi Party.



A letter by the lawyer read, "Using court premises as a battleground for political parties is a gross misconduct of professional ethics and in violation of rules of Bar Council of India and also volition of the directions of the Supreme Court judgements."



The legal cell of the Aam Aadmi Party has called for a protest in the Delhi Courts at 12.30 pm on Wednesday against the arrest of Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in the Liquor Excise Policy case.


The Enforcement Directorate has filed a money laudering case against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena Vijayan and her IT company Exalogic Solutions in the "illegal payments" case. The central agency's Kochi unit registered an Enforcement Case Information Report following a preliminary probe into the matter.

The investigation is based on reports of the Income Tax Department on Exalogic as well as the state-owned KSIDC and Kochi-based rutile mining company CMRL, reported Manorama Online.

The complainant in the case, Shaun George, claimed that the CBI should also launch a probe, considering the gravity of the case.

The move comes amid an ongoing probe by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), which is an investigative arm of the Union corporate affairs ministry. Earlier, SFIO had sent notices to Exalogic as per the Companies Act, asking the firm to submit transaction documents to its Chennai office.

SFIO intensified the probe after the Karnataka High Court had last month quashed a petition filed by Exalogic Solutions against the agency's probe. The central agency found that more than 10 companies had considerable financial dealings with Veena's firm during 2016-17. Exalogic and CMRL claimed that the money received by Exalogic through CMRL Managing Director S.N. Sasidharan Kartha's account during the period was charged for IT-related services.
A representative of the Myanmar Government (left) presents the Saddhamma Jotikadhaja title to Venerable Thich Thien Ngoc at the ceremony on March 24. (Source: VNA)

The Vietnamese monk, who is also a member of the overseas Dharma preaching sub-committee of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha Central Committee, and other monks, nuns, and Buddhist followers with outstanding contributions to the dissemination, preservation, and development of Buddhas teachings were granted different noble titles at a ceremony held by the Myanmar Government on March 24.

On this occasion, the Vietnamese Embassy in Myanmar sent representatives to attend the event and congratulated Venerable Thich Thien Ngoc on the title./.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's wife Sunita Kejriwal, in her second media address on Wednesday, said the chief minister, who is in the custody of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Delhi Excise Policy case, will do a 'big expose' on the "so-called Delhi liquor scam" in the court on Thursday.

He will present evidence that will reveal the truth, she added.

Sunita added that no money was found in multiple ED raids. "Despite two years of probe, the ED has not been able to find even one paisa in evidence. They raided chief minister's residence but got just Rs 73,000," she said. Sunita added that Kejriwal will reveal where the money of the liquor scam is.

She also questioned the Centre's intentions, asking whether the Centre wanted to ruin Delhi. "Two days ago, Arvind Kejriwal sent a letter to Water Minister Atishi regarding the water and sewer problems in Delhi. The central government filed a case against him. Do they want to destroy Delhi? Do they want the people to keep suffering?," said Sunita, adding that Kejriwal was pained by the development.
Azam Khan might be in jail, but his presence looms so large over the Samajwadi Party that it is yet to finalise the candidate for Rampur even as nomination closes today.

While senior SP leader Shivpal Yadav went to Sitapur jail to meet Khan, state party president Naresh Uttam rushed to Rampur on Wednesday morning.

Also, a chartered plane was sent to fetch Maulana Mohibullah Nadwi from Delhi to file his papers.

This is not what Khan wanted. He had requested SP president Akhilesh Yadav to fight from Rampur, given the constituencys special status.

Nadwi, an Imam at a mosque in Delhi, originally hails from Rampur. As the partys choice, it sends out a message to Khan who, for long, has been the partys Muslim face.

Khans choice, if not Yadav, was Azim Raza who has also bought a set of nomination papers this morning. Khans supporters had also issued an appeal in favour of Raza to ease matters for Khan, who is imprisoned, along with his wife and son, in a case of forgery.

Some of Khans supporters also said that they will boycott the Rampur election if his choice is not honoured.

On Tuesday evening, the Rampur SP district president Ajay Sagar said in a press conference that if Yadav would not be the partys candidate, the unit would stay away from the election. Later, a letter in Azam Khans name began to circulate, calling upon the party to give Rampur the same importance that was given to Etawah, Kannauj, Mainpuri and Azamgarh. The said letter also announced Khans boycott of the election if the condition (of Yadavs candidature) was not met.

After getting his papers, Raza said, The status will soon be clear. At the time of filing this report, he had not submitted his nomination while Nadwi had started the process.

If Khan continues to back Raza, he might fight as an independent candidate, thereby creating problems for the SP. Khan has, from different parties, been an MLA from Rampur 10 times.

Rampur will go to the polls in the first phase on April 19.
It is the harvesting season for potatoes and garlic in West Bengal. But the farmers in the state, like those in most parts of the country, are in distress because of low earnings from the crops. Young men from remote villages of Bengal are leaving the state to work as migrant labourers.

But, with the Lok Sabha elections approaching, politically-motivated Bengalis are slowly returning to the state to take part in poll campaigning. In Islampur, a small town in Murshidabad, for instance, several hundreds of CPI(M) workers have gathered in a mango orchard. This marks the commencement of Mohammed Salim's campaign, where he, the party's state secretary and politburo member, is contesting from the Murshidabad parliamentary constituency with the backing of the Congress.

The opening day of the election campaign saw a massive turnout of party members, with red flags flying everywhere and a palpable sense of joy among the attendees. A young leader delivered a fiery speech, declaring, "Times have changed. If TMC goons attack, we know how to handle it," prompting applause from the audience.

See the crowd. This is the resurgence of CPI(M) in Bengal," a confident Mohammed Salim told THE WEEK. His nomination in Murshidabad, a district where 63 per cent of the voters belong to the minority community, will undoubtedly pose a substantial challenge to the TMC candidate and the incumbent MP, Abu Thaher Khan. Known for his sober style, Salim commands a significant following among neutral voters, too.

It is a fact that CPI(M), which ruled West Bengal continuously for 34 years but later experienced a shocking decline with zero presence in both the assembly and Parliament (from West Bengal), is gradually regaining trust among minority voters. The Panchayat elections in 2023 provided a ray of hope to the Left parties, although they are yet to demonstrate their ability to mobilise the electorate to win a general election. The combined vote share of the Left, Congress, and the Indian Secular Front (ISF), which was a mere 10 per cent in the 2021 assembly election, has now surpassed the 20 per cent mark in the panchayat election. The DYFI, the youth wing of the party, organised a massive rally at Brigade Parade Ground early this year, where thousands of party workers gathered, making it one of the largest political gatherings in the city in recent times.

Salim is optimistic about the electoral understanding with the Congress although they prefer not to call it an alliancealong with other Left parties and anti-BJP and anti-TMC forces, which he believes will showcase their strength. During Salim's election meeting, several TMC workers from the minority community joined the CPI(M).

People attend Mohammed Salim's election rally in Islampur | Javed Parvesh

The elections in West Bengal are scheduled in seven phases, with Murshidabad going to polls on May 7, in the third phase. Excerpts from an interview:

Q/ Is CPI(M) in Bengal on the path of resurgence? Can the large number of party workers gathered here indicate a revival?

A/ Resurgent Bengal, revamped Left, and a rejuvenated CPI(M)  this is what you are witnessing now. This is not virtual but a reality. It's good that you visited and saw the truth. For the last several years, we have been attacked, jailed, faced many false cases, and many were forced to leave their homes and livelihoods. Despite that, the CPI(M) is rejuvenated to save Bengal and this country from the RSS-led BJP government.

Q/ Will the huge turnouts, like what saw at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata, translate into votes?

A/ No other political party in Bengal now has the courage to mobilise such a huge crowd in Brigade Parade ground. There is a deep sentimental attachment to the Parade ground within the Communist Party. The Insaaf yatra that took place on January 7 was not led by the Left Front or CPI(M) but by the DYFI. However, workers, peasants, teachers, and others supported it. Subsequently, TMC, utilising state government power and the police and civil administration, attempted to hold a rally in the parade ground but it turned out to be a damp squib. Similarly, a programme conducted by BJP, RSS, and other combined forces also fizzled out. As you mentioned, mobilising people is one thing, but mobilising them at the booth level and mastering the art of electioneering is another.

Now, after a decade, the CPI(M) has a well-oiled election machinery. Apart from the Left Front, we are mobilising parties and organisations that claim to be against BJP and TMC. That's why Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury is contesting in Baharampur with our support, and I am here in Murshidabad. It's not just the leaders sticking together; the people are also united. We have a long way to go. The anti-incumbency sentiment against TMC and people's anger towards BJP over issues like CAA, Electoral Bonds and corruption are significant factors.

Q/ Why did the opposition alliance INDIA fail in Bengalthe ruling party TMC is not part of it? Moreover, Mamata Banerjee accuses Congress of being controlled by CPI(M). Does this align with your earlier statement that the TMC truly desired a CPI(M)-mukt Bengal and a Congress-mukt India?

A/ That is where the TMC and BJP are aligning, both ideologically and politically. This is why Mamata Banerjee and the entire TMC's effort is focused on mobilising her own people and garnering support for the RSS ideology in Bengal. For over two decades, she has navigated this strategy cleverly, creating a false impression in the national media that she is fighting against the BJP when, in reality, BJP is her natural ally. Both BJP and TMC are party-centric around individuals  Modi for BJP and Mamata for TMC. Initially, Mamata formed a Maha Jod with 21 parties, but where are these parties now? Both BJP and TMC struggle to maintain alliances; they operate in an individualistic and isolated manner, despite occasionally portraying themselves as part of alliances.

It's not that the INDIA alliance failed; rather, Mamata disembarked from the train before reaching the destination. TMC's current strange equation with BJP suggests they could be potential allies in the future.

Q/ There are issues within the Left front. For example, in Purulia, according to discussions with the CPI(M), the Congress has fielded their working president, while All India Forward Bloc is not ready to vacate the seat for Congress. How do you plan to tackle this? Will there be a friendly contest between the Left and the Congress?

A/ Two candidates from the BJP have decided to contest in a single constituency in Modis Gujarat. Similarly, there are numerous issues within the TMC. If a single party is facing so many problems, given that we are several parties, there are bound to be some challenges. For the first time in Bengal, in 42 seats, there is some form of seat adjustment with parties other than the Left, Congress, and ISF. We are united in our effort to combat hindutva and corruption. The future battle in this country is between communal forces versus communists. There is no tolerance for corruption. While there may be some overlap in seat sharing, we will address this issue through discussions.

Q/ It is commonly said that the CPI(M), being a cadre-based party, guarantees its votes to Congress during seat adjustments. However, the Congress appears to struggle to ensure its party members' votes for the CPI(M), especially considering the historical memories of brutality against Congress workers during the Left rule. What is the reality?

A/ It's good that you used the word "reality". Which reality should we focus on? The reality of the 70s, the 90s, or the reality of the last century? The accusations you made belong to the past. We dont want to be prisoners of the past. We are currently working in the present for the future, aiming to protect the future of this country based on the golden principles and legacy of the freedom struggle. Despite our differences with the Congress, we share a common history of fighting against the British colonial rule. Our paths may differ, but our goal was the same. Now, it is to remove the RSS-led BJP government from power. For Marxists, reality is defined by the current situation, addressing the challenges faced by both the country and Bengal today.

Q/ Given that the CPI(M)-led Left government ruled Bengal for decades, but the party doesnt have a single MLA in the assembly now, do you believe that certain things could have been avoided in the past? For example, compromising with capitalist forces?

A/ It is commonly believed that reflecting on the past makes humans wiser. However, I prefer not to dwell on the past. Every decision made at that time has been evaluated by the party and is in the public domain. Setbacks often lead to learning experiences for people. Over the past 10 years, we have been correcting ourselves. We are adhering to the decisions made in the party congress and the last state committee meeting. Inviting industrialists and promoting industries are not compromising with capitalism. If it did, the CPI(M) would have benefited from electoral bonds. We are the only party that rejected electoral bonds and took the matter to court. We stand against the corporate-communal nexus. It is incorrect to say that the CPI(M) in Bengal compromised with capitalists. In fact, in 2011, many corporates funded the TMC through BJP under the patronage of the RSS, which aimed to eliminate the Left.

Q/ Is there an election arrangement with ISF?

A/ As of now, I cannot say anything. We do not have a formal agreement. We also have a few disagreements. Like a tailor, we are trying to stitch unity custom-made.

Q/ Both the CPI(M) and the Congress say that there is no alliance but only seat adjustment. Can we expect to see Mohammed Salim and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury leading a rally together?

A/ Why just a rally? A series of rallies will be conducted.

Q/ What will be the result of this election, and what are anti-BJP and anti-TMC parties expecting?

A/ I am not a fortune-teller. Look at the expressions on people's faces. Observe the reactions after releasing the first and second candidate lists, and witness the mobilisation of cadres. Also, see the desperation in both the BJP and the TMC camps.
The daughter of Gopal Hamal, mayor of Nepal's Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan city, who went missing in Goa on Monday, has been found, her father revealed in an update on Wednesday morning.

Aarti Hamal was found from North Goa's Mandrem, according to Goa police.

The woman was reported missing after she was spotted near Ashvem Bridge in Pernem on Monday around 9.30 pm. A missing person's complaint was registered and police were searching for her.

Who is Aarti Hamal?

Aarti Hamal, 36, is an Osho meditator and she came to Goa a few months ago. On Facebook, Aarti uses the name Artusha Hamal Dhyan Leela. She has been associated with the Osho Meditation Centre in Goa during her stay in the country, according to The Himalayan Times, a Nepalese newspaper.

In an earlier post on X after Aarti went missing, he father said, "My elder daughter, Aarti, is an Osho meditator who has been living in Goa for a few months. However, I have received a message from her friend stating that she has lost contact with Aarti Zorba Vibes Ashwem Breeze since yesterday. I humbly request that those who live in Goa assist in the search for my daughter, Aarti."

"Also, my younger daughter Arzoo and son-in-law are flying to Goa tonight to look for our elder daughter Aarti," he added.

Sharing contact numbers, he posted, "I sincerely request that you contact 9794096014 / 8273538132 / 9389607953 to provide the necessary assistance in the search for my daughter."

Arzoo Hamal, the mayor's younger daughter, posted on Facebook, saying, "All my friends and family. I humbly request that you all not reach out to me today, as I am on my way to Goa to find my sister, I will only reach there tomorrow morning. I will be taking a flight from Lucknow to Goa."

"I'm in the car right now and don't have any means to charge my phone. I'm also getting calls from our fellow Nepalese in Goa to help us in this cause. Therefore, my friends and well-wishers in Nepal, kindly help me save my phone battery. I will be unable to answer your queries," she added.
Former chief minister and ousted AIADMK leader O. Panneerselvam aka OPS is all set to contest from Ramanathapuram Lok Sabha constituency. A sitting MLA from the Bodinayakkanur assembly constituency in Theni district, OPS will be fighting his fist parliament election.

With all his legal options to stake claim of the AIADMK and being stripped off even his deputy leader post in the state assembly, OPS launched the Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhaga Rights Retrieval Organisation. Former ministers Vaithilingam and Manoj Pandian are the only two AIADMK leaders who stand by OPS in his fight to retrieve the AIADMK. The former chief minster who had aligned with the BJP has now been forced to seek an identity of his own in this Lok Sabha election.

A trusted lieutenant and a known loyalist of late former chief minister J. Jayalalithaa, Panneerselvam is contesting the general elections as an independent with the support of BJP-NDA. He will not contest in his most prestigious two leaves symbol.

Ramanathapuram Lok Sabha constituency in south Tamil Nadu comprises of six assembly segmentsParamakudi (reserved), Thiruvadanai, Ramanathapuram, Mudukulathur, Aranthangi and Thiruchuli. With 16.06 lakh voters, the constituency has a significant number of Thevar and minority voters.

Known as Mukkulathors, an umbrella term used to refer the three dominant backward communities in the SouthKallar, Maravar and Agamudaiyarsthe Thevars are the majority community in this region. The Thevars in the south and central Tamil Nadufrom Madurai to Virudhunagartraditionally support the DMK and the AIADMK. While the majority of the OBC Thevar vote bank was always with the AIADMK till Jayalalithaa was alive, it saw a shift in 2019 and 2021 after Edappadi K. Palanisamy (EPS) took over the AIADMK. In 2021, when EPS decided to give 10.5 per cent internal reservation to the Vanniyars, a majority community in North Tamil Nadu, the Thevars chose to shun the AIADMK and vote for the DMK.

Apart from the Thevar vote bank, Ramanathapuram has a significant number of Muslim votes, which is considered a deciding factor in this region. The DMK-led alliance has fielded Nawaz Kani of the Indian Union Muslim League. Kani is the sitting MP from Ramanathapuram. A section of the minorities also support the AIADMK after it walked out the BJP alliance and aligned with Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), the political wing of the Popular Front of India (PFI).

OPS, who hails from the Maravar caste in the Thevar community, may have an edge in assembly segments like Thiruvadanai and Mudukulathur. However for OPS, who had always been identified with two leaves symbol, contesting as an independent and taking the symbol forward is a huge challenge. Though OPS is used to electoral politics and facing elections, Ramanathapuram may not be like his home constituency Periyakulam or Bodinayakanur.

OPS, sources say, was forced to choose Ramanathapuram as his former mentor and friend T.T.V. Dhinakaran decided to contest from his hometown Theni. OPSs son O.P. Ravindranath Kumar was the lone MP to win in 2019 from Theni on an AIADMK ticket. However, he chose to stay away from this election as the entire family has been ostracised from the AIADMK.

But this election has turned into a huge challenge for OPS who will have to fight four other O. Panneerselvams in Ramanathapuram. While the original OPS is contesting as an independent, the other four OPS are also contesting as independents. This is the handiwork of EPS, says OPSs son V.P. Jayapradeep.

Panneerselvam is a common name in the Theni-Ramanathapuram region. But the name of the former chief minister, son of Ottakara Thevar, remained unique all these years. Now four other Panneerselvams with surnames starting with OO. Panneerselvam, son of Ochappan of Mekilaarpuram in Madurai district, O. Panneerselvam, son of Oyyaram of Valantharavai in Ramanathapuram district, O. Panneerselvam, son of Ocha Thevar of Vagaikulam in Madurai district, and O. Panneerselvam, son of Oyya Thevar of Solai Alagupuramhave filed nominations from Ramanathapuram.

I have filed my nomination. I am contesting the MP election. I dont know anything else other than this, said one of the four OPS as he walked out after filing nomination.

The original OPS has requested that he be allotted bucket or grapes or jackfruit, while the four other independents have also asked for the same. Symbol doesnt matter. Candidate is more important than the symbol, OPS told reporters after filing his nomination.

OPS, sources say, will put his heart and soul to garner votes, only to prove that the Thevar community is politically relevant in the south, in the backdrop of EPS isolating the Thevar community leaders like OPS from the party. With OPSs candidature, sources say, the BJP wants to show that they are politically significant in a state like Tamil Nadu and relegate the EPS-led AIADMK to the third position.

However it remains to be seen if the original OPS gains the majority votes to prove his mettle and continue his fight to stake claims for the AIADMK.
Translating images captured by telescopes into sounds has been found to improve trust and access among visually-impaired persons, along with promoting awareness about accessibility, according to a new research in the US.

The research found that such translations of the visual to the audio, or sonification, helped people access and engage with the Universe.

Astronomical telescopes, such as NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and the James Webb Space Telescope, capture light coming from various cosmic sources like stars and galaxies in the form of X-rays and infrared, both invisible to the human eye.

These different kinds of light are transmitted to Earth in digital form -- ones and zeroes -- and then converted into varied formats, including plots, spectra and images.

NASA's Universe of Sound data sonification program translates the visual data of images of objects in space into sound signals or sonified data. Images produced by all of the US space agency's telescopes, including Chandra, Webb, the Hubble Space Telescope and others are converted.

Astronomy has historically prioritised visuals to present information, with scientists and communicators overlooking the critical need to communicate astrophysics with visually-impaired audiences and provide novel channels for sighted audiences to process scientific information, researchers said in their study published in the journal Frontiers in Communication'.

The team included researchers at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, Cambridge, US.

In this study, the researchers sonified NASA data of three astronomical objects. They then surveyed close to 3,200 from three groups -- sighted, people with partial vision and blind -- on their experience of these audio pieces with regards to "enjoyment, education, and trust of the scientific data".

Analysing the participants' responses, the team found that the audio translations of telescope images yielded "significant" learning gains and positive experiences.

The results showed that "astrophysical data engaging multiple senses could establish additional avenues of trust, increase access, and promote awareness of accessibility in sighted and blind or low-vision communities, the researchers stated in their study.

The hope is that sonification can help communicate the scientific discoveries from our Universe with more audiences, and open the door to the cosmos just a little wider for everyone, they said.
The six workers, who went missing after a cargo vessel rammed into a bridge in the US city of Baltimore, have been presumed dead. The treacherous conditions in the icy-cold water have made search and rescue difficult, forcing the dive team to suspend the operations about 18 hours after the accident.

U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath told reporters that there was no hope of finding the missing workers alive due to the frigid water and the length of time elapsed since the accident. "We do not believe that we are going to find any of these individuals still alive," Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath added.



Baltimore State Police Colonel Roland Butler said authorities hoped to return divers to the water after sunrise on Wednesday to recover the workers' remains.



Eight people were on the bridge when it collapsed after the Singapore-flagged container vessel named Dali, heading out of Baltimore Harbor bound for Sri Lanka, ploughed into a support pylon of the Francis Scott Key Bridge over the mouth of the Patapsco River at about 1:30 a.m. local time. While two people were rescued, one was taken to the hospital and has since been discharged.



The vessel is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk. The entire 22-member crew of the cargo ship were Indians and all were safe.



The ship issued a 'May Day' call after a power failure before impact, which enabled officials to stop traffic on the bridge before the collapse.

Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Washington condoled the "unfortunate accident" and was in the process of ascertaining details regarding the vessel's crew. "Our heartfelt condolences to all affected by the unfortunate accident at the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore," the Indian Embassy said in a post on X.



The Embassy said it has created a dedicated hotline "for any Indian citizens that may be affected/require assistance". The "Dali" had an all-Indian crew of 22 people onboard, according to ship management company Synergy Marine Group.



Grace Ocean Private Ltd owns the vessel with a capacity of 10,000 TEU, with onboard units totalling 4,679 TEU. The vessel's tons deadweight is 116,851 DWT.



US President Joe Biden too hailed the crew of the vessel for alerting transportation personnel about losing control of the vessel. This helped authorities close the Baltimore Bridge to traffic before the devastating collision. "Personnel onboard the ship were able to alert the Maryland Department of Transportation that they had lost control of their vessel. As a result, local authorities were able to close the bridge to traffic before the bridge was struck, which undoubtedly saved lives, Biden said in remarks made in the White House.



Biden said that the investigation into the collision so far indicates that this was a terrible accident. "At this time, we have no other indication, no other reason to believe if there is any intentional act here," Biden said.
Ahead of his maiden visit to India after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Ukrainian Minister for Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba said his country sees India as a powerful international force in peace negotiations. Attending his weekly briefing for foreign media via Webex from Polands Warsaw, he said he is on his way to New Delhi for the inter-governmental talks with Indias Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar.

Minister Kuleba, who is on a diplomatic tour to garner the support of various nations ahead of the first peace summit in Switzerland later this year, said it is important to get more countries to the Ukraine side to defeat Russian propaganda. Kuleba blatantly rejected Russias accusations that terrorists who carried out the attack in Moscow last week had a Ukraine connection. Crimes against civilians is Russian practice, he claimed and added that Ukraine hasn't been targetting civilian infrastructure in the ongoing war.

Kuleba stressed the urgent need for air defence systems to protect Ukraine, particularly Patriot anti-missile systems. Giving details of the Russian attack since last week, he said these were carried out using 500kg to 1,500kg ammunition. "Ukraine is the only country in the world which is subjected to daily attacks by ballistic missiles, he said.

The minister further said while North Korea is supplying arms to Russia, South Korea is still deciding to help Ukraine in this war. Ukraines defeat in this war means destabilisation of global peace he added.

While answering India-specific questions, he said Indian companies are welcome to take part in the reconstruction of Ukraine.

Kuleba will arrive in New Delhi on Thursday for a two-day visit.
Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Low 37F. N winds at 10 to 15 mph, decreasing to less than 5 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Low 37F. N winds at 10 to 15 mph, decreasing to less than 5 mph.
Dr. Ton Thanh Tra, General Director of the Cho Ray - Phnom Penh Hospital, provides free health check-ups to people in Cambodias Kratie province (Photo: VNA)

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to Cambodia Nguyen Huy Tang thanked the authorities and people of Kratie province for their support to the Vietnamese community living there.

On this occasion, he called on the Vietnamese community in Kratie to abide by Cambodias laws and local regulations for a better life in the country.

Meanwhile, Vice Governor of Kratie province Kham Sopheap said the activity was in line with the six priority policies outlined in the Pentagonal Strategy-Phase 1 of the Cambodian Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet.

The program was jointly organized by the Cho Ray Phnom Penh Hospital, with the support of the Bank for Investment and Development of Cambodia (BIDC) - a subsidiary of the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV), and branch of the Khmer - Vietnamese Association in Kratie province.

Dr. Ton Thanh Tra, General Director of the Cho Ray - Phnom Penh Hospital, said that since March 2014, the hospital has held similar activities across Cambodia, with 2-4 trips annually.

According to him, this event marked the first such program carried out by the hospital's medical team in 2024./.
Russian officials persisted Tuesday in saying Ukraine and the West had a role in last weeks deadly Moscow concert hall attack despite vehement denials of involvement by Kyiv and a claim of responsibility by an affiliate of the Islamic State group.

Without offering any evidence, Alexander Bortnikov, head of the Federal Security Service, or FSB, followed similar allegations by President Vladimir Putin, who linked the attack to Ukraine even as he acknowledged that the suspects who were arrested were radical Islamists.

The IS affiliate claimed it carried out the attack, and U.S. intelligence said it had information confirming the group was responsible. French President Emmanuel Macron said France also has intelligence pointing to an IS entity as responsible for the attack.

But despite the signs pointing to IS, Putin insisted on alleged Ukrainian involvement  something that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected, accusing the Kremlin leader of trying to drum up fervor as his forces fight in Ukraine.

Bortnikov alleged that Western spy agencies also could have been involved in the deadliest terror attack on Russian soil in two decades, even as he acknowledged receiving a U.S. tip about the attack.

We believe that radical Islamists prepared the action, while Western special services have assisted it and Ukrainian special services had a direct part in it, Bortnikov said without giving details.

He repeated Putins claim that the four gunmen were trying to escape to Ukraine when they were arrested. casting it as a proof of alleged involvement by Kyiv.

But that assertion was undercut slightly by Belarus authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko. who said Tuesday the suspects were headed for Ukraine because they feared tight controls on the Belarus border.

Russia is still reeling from the attack Friday in which gunmen killed 139 people in the Crocus City Hall, a concert venue on the outskirts of Moscow. Health officials said about 90 people remain hospitalized, with 22 of them, including two children, in grave condition.

The four men accused of carrying out the attack appeared in a Moscow court on Sunday on terrorism charges and showed signs of severe beatings. One appeared to be barely conscious during the hearing.

The men are citizens of Tajikistan, authorities said, and were identified as Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, 32; Saidakrami Rachabalizoda, 30; Shamsidin Fariduni, 25; and Mukhammadsobir Faizov, 19. They were charged with committing a terrorist attack resulting in death, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

A senior Turkish security official confirmed Tuesday that two of them spent a short amount of time in Turkey before traveling together to Russia on March 2.

One of the suspects, Fariduni, entered Turkey on Feb. 20, checked into a hotel in Istanbuls Fatih district the next day, and checked out Feb. 27, the official said. The other, Rachabalizoda, checked into a hotel in the same district on Jan. 5, checking out on Jan. 21.

The official said Turkish authorities believe the two became radicalized in Russia because they were not in Turkey for long. There was no warrant for their arrest so they were allowed to travel freely between Russia and Turkey, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to make public statements.

The Islamic State group, which lost much of its ground after Russias military action in Syria, has long targeted Russia. In October 2015, a bomb planted by IS downed a Russian jetliner over the Sinai desert, killing all 224 people aboard, most of them Russian vacationers returning from Egypt.

The group, which operates mainly in Syria and Iraq but also in Afghanistan and Africa, also has claimed several attacks in Russias volatile Caucasus and other regions in the past years. It recruited fighters from Russia and other parts of the former Soviet Union.

On Monday, Putin warned that more attacks could follow, alleging possible Western involvement. He didnt mention the warning about a possible imminent terrorist attack that the U.S. shared confidentially with Moscow two weeks before the raid.

Three days before the attack, Putin denounced the U.S. Embassys March 7 notice urging Americans to avoid crowds in Moscow, including concerts, calling it an attempt to frighten Russians and blackmail the Kremlin ahead of the presidential election.

Bortnikov said Russia was thankful for the warning but described it as very general.

The information about preparations for terror attacks in large gatherings of people was of a general nature, he said. Of course, we reacted to that information and took corresponding measures to prevent such incidents.

He added that the FSB acted on the tip, targeting a group of suspects he didnt identify but which eventually proved false.

We are thankful, of course, but we would like to see more specifics, Bortnikov said.

(AP)
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Tuesday agreed to pay nearly $300,000 in restitution under a deal to end criminal securities fraud charges that have shadowed the Republican for nearly a decade.

The announcement by special prosecutors in a Houston courtroom came less than three weeks before Paxton was set to stand trial on felony charges that could have led to a prison sentence. It was the closest Paxton  who was indicted in 2015  has ever come to trial over accusations that he duped investors in a tech startup near Dallas.

Under the 18-month pre-trial agreement, the special prosecutors would drop three felony counts against Paxton, while he must pay full restitution to victims, and complete 100 hours of community service and 15 hours of legal ethics education.

Paxton was in the courtroom but made no comment other than affirming to state District Judge Andrea Beall that his signature was on the agreement.

If he had been convicted, Paxton could have been sentenced to life in prison. Paxtons attorneys emphasized in a statement Tuesday that he made no admission of guilt under the agreement.

This case has been pending literally longer than the Beatles were together  it was time to move on  and this proposal by the Special Prosecutors allows him to do just that, said Don Cogdell, one of Paxtons attorney.

The agreement with prosecutors, which lets Paxton remain in his elected position and doesnt affect his law license, is another huge legal and political victory for one of the nations most visible Republican state attorney generals. The end of the case comes six months after Paxton was acquitted of corruption charges in an impeachment trial in the Texas Senate.

Brian Wice, a Houston attorney who was assigned as a special prosecutor in the case, described the deal as a victory that requires Paxton to repay investors, one of whom is a former GOP lawmaker who served with Paxton in the Texas Legislature.

Wice acknowledged the long arc of the case that shuffled between four different judges over the years, ping-ponged between courtrooms in Dallas and Houston, and at one point was slowed by the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

This case, no pun intended, was a perfect storm of everything that could have derailed and delayed the prosecution, Wice said.

The resolution of the securities fraud case furthers a dramatic reversal of political fortune for Paxton, who just a year ago appeared imperiled by both the criminal case and the threat of being removed from office after his top aides reported him to the FBI.

But Paxton has emerged emboldened. He waged war against dozens of GOP lawmakers who were part of the 2023 effort to impeach him, with his biggest target being state House Speaker Dade Phelan, who was forced into a May 28 runoff. Paxtons revenge campaign also included helping defeat three Republican judges on the state Court of Criminal Appeals because they were part of a majority that stripped his office of the power to prosecute election fraud without permission from local district attorneys. He has not ruled out a primary challenge to Republican Sen. John Cornyn in 2026.

Paxton still faces legal troubles, however. A federal investigation has been probing some of the same charges presented in his impeachment.

He is also fighting efforts by former top aides to make him testify in a whistleblower civil lawsuit that also includes allegations central to the impeachment.

The securities fraud case has hung over Paxton nearly his entire time in statewide office. Yet Paxton, 61, has shown remarkable political resilience, maintaining and growing strong support among GOP activists on the state and national level, including from former President Donald Trump.

Paxton had been accused of defrauding investors in a Dallas-area tech company called Servergy by not disclosing that he was being paid by the company to recruit them. One of the people Paxton was accused of defrauding was former state Rep. Byron Cook.

Paxton was charged with two counts of securities fraud and one count of not being registered as an investment advisor.

Paxton was also charged in a federal civil complaint filed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission over his work with Servergy. But a federal judge in March 2017 dismissed the complaint against Paxton. The person who recruited Paxton to work with Servergy, ex-company CEO William Mapp, was found liable by a jury for misleading investors and ordered to pay a civil penalty of $22,500. Mapp lost his job with Servergy and later had to work as an Uber driver to make ends meet, according to court documents.

Pre-trial disputes over trial location in the Dallas area or Houston and payment for the states special prosecutors delayed the securities fraud case against Paxton for years. Prosecutors argued most of those delays were caused by Paxton.

Paxtons lawyers last month unsuccessfully sought to have the charges against him thrown out, arguing that the years of delay had violated his right to a speedy trial.

The fraud allegations were among the original 20 articles of impeachment. But that process was a political one. The criminal case posed a much more serious threat.

Paxtons political opponents, most notably Republicans, had used the fraud charges against him in elections. But Paxton has twice been reelected as attorney general since his indictment, most recently in 2022.

(AP)
According to the New York Post, the Adams administration has initiated its program to distribute prepaid debit cards to migrants in New York City this week, following a controversial $53 million no-bid contract signed two months ago.

Staff members from Mobility Capital Finance, a New Jersey-based company, distributed eight preloaded Mastercards at the Roosevelt Hotel on Monday as part of a pilot program. The program is set to expand to 115 cards by the following week, as confirmed by a spokesperson from City Hall.

The one-year contract drew criticism after The Post initially reported that it was awarded without undergoing the usual bidding process.

The deal has the potential to greatly benefit the tech start-up, allowing it to earn an estimated $1.8 million by receiving a percentage of the funds loaded onto each Mastercard, as outlined in the contract.

However, the administration has revised the original plan, which initially intended to load the cards with a months worth of funds for food and baby supplies. Instead, cash will now need to be replenished on a weekly basis.

As per the spokesperson, a family consisting of two parents and children under five years old will receive approximately $350 per week.

The pilot program aims to cover around 460 out of the 64,500 migrants under the citys care, with City Hall monitoring its effectiveness closely.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
President Joe Biden has won Missouris primary, the state Democratic Party announced.

Bidens win was not in doubt; he has already beaten his major competitors. But the primary races are still closely watched by insiders for turnout and signs of protest voters.

Saturdays primary was the Missouri Democratic Partys first party-run presidential contest since a new law took effect in August 2022.

The party says about 20,000 voters participated.

Missouri Republicans opted to hold a caucus this year, which former President Donald Trump won.

Lawmakers have failed to reinstate the state-run primary despite calls to do so by both state Republican and Democratic party leaders.

(AP)
In a harrowing audio recording, Baltimore officials can be heard rushing to stop traffic on the Francis Scott Key Bridge just seconds before it collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship.

Theres a ship approaching that just lost their steering so until we get that under control, weve got to stop all traffic, an official can be heard saying.

Moments later, another official reports, The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever everybody. The whole bridge just collapsed.

The ships crew issued a mayday call just before the crash, enabling authorities to limit vehicle traffic on the span, Maryland Governor Wes Moore said.

These people are heroes, Moore said. They saved lives last night.

The crash occurred in the middle of the night, long before the busy morning commute on the bridge that stretches 1.6 miles and was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

Six people are still unaccounted for, and state officials are using sonar detection devices to search for them in the water. The six missing were men who were working to fill potholes on the bridge when disaster struck.

President Joe Biden has declared a state of emergency and promised federal aid, saying, To the people of Baltimore  Were with you, were going to stay with you as long as it takes.

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with officials saying it appears to have been an accident and not a terrorist attack.

The collapse has created a logistical nightmare for the East Coast, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore and snarling cargo and commuter traffic for months, if not years, to come.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
A former Hungarian government insider turned critic released an audio recording on Tuesday that he says proves that top officials conspired to cover up corruption, the latest development in a scandal that has shaken Prime Minister Viktor Orbans domination of the countrys politics.

The countrys largest protests in years erupted in early February when it was revealed that the president had issued a pardon to a man imprisoned for covering up child sexual abuses by the director of a state-run orphanage.

Close Orban allies, including the president and Justice Minister Judit Varga, were forced to resign in the face of public outrage.

The latest allegations come from Vargas ex-husband, Peter Magyar, a former political insider who says he has turned whistleblower to reveal the extent of impropriety within Orbans government.

He posted a recording on Facebook and YouTube on Tuesday featuring what appeared to be Vargas voice describing how other government officials caused evidence to be removed from court records to cover up their roles in corrupt business dealings.

They suggested to the prosecutors what should be removed, Varga says in the recording, which Magyar says he made during a conversation in the former couples apartment. Varga also says that one of her state secretaries was tipped off by senior officials that he was the subject of a corruption investigation.

Magyar gave the recording to the Metropolitan Public Prosecutors Office in Budapest on Tuesday to be used as evidence.

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Varga accused Magyar of domestic violence during their marriage and claimed she had made the statements under duress, but didnt deny that it was her in the recording.

I said what he wanted to hear so I could get away as soon as possible. In a situation like this, any person can say things they dont mean in a state of intimidation, Varga wrote. Magyar later denied those claims in a separate post on Facebook.

Once a senior but little-known member of Orbans political circle, Magyar shot to prominence when he gave an interview in February to popular YouTube channel Partizan in which he accused Orbans government of widespread corruption and of using smear campaigns to discredit its opponents.

On March 15, he addressed a crowd of tens of thousands in Budapest and announced plans to form a new political party to challenge the governing partys 14-year grip on power as an alternative to Hungarys fragmented opposition.

The scandal caused an unprecedented political crisis within Orbans government, which has led Hungary since 2010. Magyars followers hope his position as a former insider can help to disrupt Hungarys political system, which many see as a deeply entrenched autocracy.

In his recent public appearances, Magyar has particularly targeted Antal Rogan, a close Orban ally who is responsible for the governments communications as well as the countrys secret services. The recording released Tuesday purports to show that Rogan led the effort to alter evidence.

The government has dismissed Magyar as an opportunist seeking to forge a new career after his divorce with Varga and his loss of positions in several state companies. But his rise has compounded political headaches for Orban that have included the resignation of members of his government and a painful economic crisis.

After spending nearly four hours inside the prosecutors office on Tuesday, Magyar told journalists that the alleged evidence tampering was cause for Orbans government to step down, and called for a spontaneous protest later in the day.

On Tuesday evening, thousands of demonstrators gathered at Magyars urging at the Public Prosecutors Office in Budapest where he demanded the resignation of the attorney general, whom he accused of acting in the interests of Orbans governing party.

Let us send a message from here, together, that we will not let them cover up the biggest legal and political scandal of the last 30 years! We will not allow it! he said, adding that he demanded that the alleged misconduct be investigated independently, objectively and free from political interference.

One demonstrator, Katalin Varga, said that she identifies with Magyars political message that corruption in Hungary has led to a disintegration of the countrys political, cultural and social life.

Finally, there is a force, a character who represents what for me is the problem with the current situation: the political system, the abuses, and the fact that we are slowly cooking like frogs and not realizing that we are going to be the soup, she said.

(AP)
The Hezbollah terror group on Wednesday morning fired a heavy rocket barrage of at least 30 rockets at Kiryat Shmona and nearby areas, scoring direct hits on houses, factories and cars.

A construction worker in a carpentry workshop in Kiryat Shmona was killed after the building suffered a direct rocket hit. Rescue workers pulled his lifeless body from the burning building and began searching for other possible victims.

MDA paramedics said that when they arrived at the building they saw thick smoke. We immediately began carrying out searches and pulled out a 30-year-old worker who was uninjured. He told us that his friend was still trapped in the building. A large number of IDF, police, and fire and rescue forces arrived at the scene and after complex rescue operations, a 25-year-old worker was pulled out, unconscious, not breathing, and without a pulse  with severe multi-system trauma. We were forced to pronounce him dead at the scene.

He was later identified as Zahar Bashara, 32, a resident of a Druze village in Ramat HaGolan who was the sole supporter of his extended family. His death increases the death toll of Israelis killed by Hezbollah since the start of the war to 18.

An Israeli man was injured by rocket shrapnel on a highway near Kiryat Shmona. Five others were lightly injured in the attack. Ziv Hospital in Tzfas stated early Wednesday afternoon that six victims of the attack were treated in their trauma unit. Two were already released and the other four are in light condition.

Police and firefighters handled several rocket impact sites in Kiryat Shmona. Other rockets were intercepted by the Iron Dome over the city. One rocket fell in a new construction project for student dormitories in the heart of the city, Ynet reported.

Below is security camera footage of a rocket hitting a building:

Shortly after the attack, Hezbollah took responsibility for the barrage of rockets at Kiryat Shmona, stating that it was in response to the IDFs strike in the Habbariyeh region in southern Lebanon overnight Tuesday, which killed at least seven people.

The IDF claimed responsibility for the strike on Wednesday morning, saying that fighter jets struck a military building in the Habbariyeh area in southern Lebanon. A significant terrorist affiliated with the Jamaa al-Islamiya terror organization who advanced terror attacks against Israel was eliminated along with other terrorists who were in the building.

According to Israeli media reports, the eliminated terrorists were operatives of the al-Fajr Forces  the military arm of the Jamaa al-Islamiya organization, headed by Sheikh Mohammed Takkoush. The head of the terror group directed various terror acts against Israel, including the firing of rockets. He was also planning an attack to avenge the assassination of senior Hamas official in Lebanon Saleh al-Arouri.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
The head of a Lebanese Sunni political and terror group that has joined the Shiite terror group Hezbollah in its fight against Israel on Lebanons border said Tuesday that the conflict has helped strengthen cooperation between the two groups.

The Secretary-General of al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, or the Islamic Group, Sheikh Mohammed Takkoush said his terror group decided to join the fighting along the Lebanon-Israel border because of Israels crushing offensive on the Gaza Strip and its strikes against Lebanese towns and villages killing civilians, including journalists, since the Israel-Hamas war started on Oct.7.

We decided to join (the battle) as a national, religious and moral duty. We did that to defend our land and villages, Takkoush told The Associated Press at his groups headquarters in Beirut. We also did so in support of our brothers in Gaza, where he said Israel was committing an open massacre.

The IDF eliminated one of the groups key terrorists in an airstrike overnight Tuesday, saying that he has directed terror attacks against Israel, including the firing of rockets and the planning of an attack to avenge the assassination of senior Hamas official in Lebanon Saleh al-Arouri. Hezbollah responded to the elimination by firing 30 rockets at Kiryat Shmona, killing an Israeli-Druze man and injuring two others.

Takkoush said he believed Israel has ambitions to seize more territory not only in Palestine but in Lebanon too.

The Islamic Group is one of Lebanons main Sunni terror groups but has kept a low profile politically over the years. It has one member in Lebanons 128-seat legislature. Elections within the group in 2022 brought its leadership closer to Hamas.

Like Hamas, it is inspired by the ideology of the Pan-Arab Islamist political movement The Muslim Brotherhood, founded in Egypt in 1928 by a school teacher-turned-Islamic ideologue Hassan al-Banna.

It carries out attacks against Israel mainly from the southern city of Sidon where the group once enjoyed wide influence.

Takkoush said his group makes its own decisions in the field but coordinates closely with Hezbollah, and with the Lebanese branch of the Palestinian terror group Hamas.

Part of (the attacks against Israeli forces) were in coordination with Hamas, which coordinates with Hezbollah, he said adding that direct cooperation with Hezbollah is on the rise and this is being reflected in the field. He did not elaborate further.

While the Lebanese border area is seen as a Hezbollah stronghold and its population is primarily Shiite, it also has Sunni villages, where the Islamic Group primarily operates.

The tensions between Islams two main sects  Sunni and Shiite  originated following the death of Prophet Muhammad in 632. It has reverberated across the wider Middle East till the present day thus making cooperation between Hezbollah and al-Jamaa al-Islamiya all the more rare.

The Islamic Groups armed wing, known as the Fajr Forces, has claimed responsibility for a series of attacks along the Lebanon-Israel border since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war.

They have lost five members so far, Takkoush said, with three killed in an Israeli airstrike in a border area earlier this month.

The other two were killed in a Jan. 2, Israeli strike on an apartment in Beirut that targeted top Hamas official Saleh Arouri.

The groups use of weapons against Israel is not new. It founded its Fajr Forces in 1982 at the height of the Israeli invasion of Lebanon.

Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon in 2000. But the Lebanese government claims Israel still occupies the disputed Chebaa Farms and Kfar Chouba hills that Israel captured from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war.

In the current conflict, coordinating and cooperating with a movement like Hamas, the most honorable liberation movement, is an honor, Takkoush said.

Regarding his groups relations with Hezbollah, Takkoush said it had gone through ups and downs. They had differences regarding the conflicts in Syria and Yemen but put them aside to resist the Israeli occupation of parts of our Lebanese territories, he said.

Our relations with Hezbollah are good and growing and it is being strengthened as we go through war, Takkoush said.

Takkoush added that all the weapons they use, from bullets to rockets, are from their own arsenal. We did not get even a bullet from any side, he said.

As Hezbollah has solidified its position as the most powerful political and military terror organization in Lebanon, the countrys Sunni community has floundered in the absence of a strong leader.

Asked whether the Islamic Group is trying to fill the gap in Lebanons Sunni political leadership left behind by former Prime Minister Saad Hariri who quit politics two years ago, Takkoush said that Prime Minister Saad Hariri still has a base of support and popularity, but his group was not in the habit of filling anyones absence.

We introduce ourselves as partners in building generations and (state) institutions but we do not replace anyone, he said.

(AP & YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Israel has stepped up preparations to launch an operation in Rafah and is expected to do so after the end of Ramadan (around April 12th) or in the week or two afterward, the Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar reported.

According to the report, in the wake of the failed hostage negotiations, IDF officials informed Egypt and Qatar of the date of the operation and said that Israel has no intention of showing any further flexibility with Hamas and other terror organizations.

The report quoted Egyptian sources as saying that the operation will last from four to eight weeks.

The report added that Egypt warned against an Israeli operation in Rafah, saying that it could lead to a regional escalation.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
How can one choose his shirt from a pile of different types of clothing and not transgress borer on Shabbos?

What does one do if there is a power outage on Shabbos?

Can someone put food in the oven on Shabbos?

These and numerous other questions are impossible to answer unless one has a thorough knowledge of the laws of Shabbos. Shabbos comes about once a week, so if a person is not well-versed in its intricacies, then it is inevitable that transgressions will take place. It is wonderful to read one of the many books that give basic laws, but to really understand the halachos and know how to apply them, it is essential to learn Hilchos Shabbos with the background discussion of the Gemara and commentators.

What is the challenge we face? It takes several years for a full-time advanced Torah learner to cover the laws of Shabbos in depth, so how can a working man, or one with less advanced skills, begin this seemingly daunting task?

Now there is a solution. World famous Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav HaGaon Yitzchak Berkovits shlita used his vast knowledge to arrange all the Gemaras with the commentators on each area of Hilchos Shabbos and presented it in the form of source sheets that cover material from the Gemara until practical halacha. This enables one to cover main opinions in each topic and gain a deep understanding of the halacha.

According to Rabbi Berkovits: Learning Hilchos Shabbos from the traditional sources could be quite confusing or complicated. Studying them in a very organized way gives you the clarity, the clarity to understand them in the first place and the clarity to retain the information.

This was done for full-time Torah learners who have advanced Hebrew skills and can devote many hours each day to learn. What about busy working Bnei Torah who have limited time to learn but want to properly master Hilchos Shabbos? Or people who are still building up their Gemara skills but want to learn the Gemara sugyas and Halacha?

Rabbi Yehonasan Gefen, a close talmid of Rav Berkovits who spent eight years as a Rosh Chaburah in Rav Berkovitss famous Jerusalem Kollel, with the Ravs haskama, took on the monumental task of adapting the Hebrew sheets into English. The material is written with care and with great clarity, as well as including the various opinions in the contemporary practical halacha.

For the past several years, Rabbi Gefen has been teaching this material to Torah learners throughout the world, on all levels of learning, and of all ages now as the founder of KinyanHilchosShabbos.com. Participants in each online chabura receive source sheets with explanations both in Hebrew and English, participate in a weekly Zoom shiur and ask questions by phone and email. Many have also successfully gained Smicha through thoroughly learning the material.

I would love to sit in Yeshiva half a day, but I have different hours. Says Dr. Eric Leibowitz who is a dentist in Brooklyn. Learning Hilchos Shabbos in Rabbi Gefens online chabura allowed for the flexibility I needed. Id always do Daf Yomi for many years, but always off and on. I was looking for something with some structure and with an end goal. This program enabled me to not only learn, but to retain what I learned in a structured way and the tests were very helpful. I felt like I accomplished something, I made a kinyan on something.

Over one thousand past and present participants in our online programs come from five continents and range from working Bnei Torah to full-time Kollel avreichim from Yerushalayim and Lakewood, as well as people who are still developing their Gemara skills, says Rabbi Dr. Yakov Pesah, director of the program and also a musmach of Rabbi Berkovits. Our vision is to enable Bnei Torah to learn halacha in a structured way and make it doable for any motivated person.

The program includes a weekly Zoom shiur which is recorded and can be reviewed later, tests on the material covered to enable the individual to evaluate their understanding of the material, and availability by email or phone for questions, clarifications, or further discussions.

Rabbi Gefen ran the Hilchos Shabbos program for our Kollel in Johannesburg. We achieved tremendous clarity on Hilchos Shabbos both in sugyas and in psak which is what you want when you learn Halacha. Says Rabbi Micha Kaplan who is an avrech in the Maharsha Community Kollel in Johannesburg and the Menahel of the Maharsha Boys High School.

The program includes the option of Smicha which is a wonderful source of pride for the individuals family. But its greatest benefit is that it will ensure that a person can lead his family to observing the laws of Shabbos with all their details.

Shlomo Gross who is originally from London and is a lawyer in Yerushalayim shares his experience: For people like me who are working full-time, this program was ideal. I benchmarked the Hilchos Shabbat coourse against the syllabus required for the Smicha exams of the Rabbanut and found that it was at least as comprehensive The Hilchos Shabbat Smicha course transported my learning to a completely different level.

Rabbi Berkovits adds: Theres a mitzva of Zachor es yom HaShabbos lkadsho  that mitzva is to remember Shabbos all the time. There is nothing like being involved in Hilchos Shabbos the whole week  your whole week is different and your Shabbos is different.

The new cycle of the Kinyhan Hilchos Shabbos program is starting after Pesach  on May 29th. For more information, tuition, and to receive an application visit KinyanHilchosShabbos.com.
At the congress (Photo: VNA)

The congress aimed to review activities during the 2021-2024 term and set out orientations for the next three years.

The event was attended by over 30 delegates representing over 500 Vietnamese students studying at 12 universities in 10 cities and provinces in Belgium.

Speaking at the congress, Vietnamese Ambassador to Belgium Nguyen Van Thao pointed out important tasks for SIVIBI to further develop the community of Vietnamese students in Belgium and contribute to Vietnams development.

He urged overseas Vietnamese students to focus on studying, and develop comprehensively.

During the last term, SIVIBI paid much attention to expanding the association, attracting more members, and taking part in activities held by the Vietnamese association in Belgium. Particularly, the association implemented a program that offered support to Vietnamese newcomers who arrived in Belgium to start their study.

It also actively joined events to promote Vietnamese culture in the host country.

SIVIBI was also requested to closely connect with domestic associations and the Vietnamese community in Belgium to build a strong network that will support its members better.

The congress elected an executive board including 19 members. Mr. Nguyen Tuan Nghia, Master of Business Administration from Louvain University, was elected as President of the Association./.
Chocolate lovers face further price hikes after an already expensive Easter as the price of cocoa hit a new record high.

The cocoa bean surged above $10,000 a ton for the first time on world commodity markets yesterday, with prices having already doubled in 2024.

This is the second time this week that prices reached a fresh record, with cocoa rallying to $9,000 on Monday.

It comes as chocolate producers rush to secure supplies of the bean as crop disease and poor weather hit harvests in West Africa.

The two largest, Ivory Coast and Ghana, have been struck by both heavy rain and dry heat.

Crop failures: Women from Ivory Coast process raw coca beans. Prices for the beans surged above $10,000 a tonne for the first time on world commodity markets

On the stock market, the FTSE 100 was up 0.17 per cent, or 13.39 points, to 7930.96. The FTSE 250 rose 0.84 per cent, or 164.11 points, to 19,777.64.

Shares in Revolution Bars tumbled as it warned it could put itself up for sale amid mounting uncertainty around its future.

The company, which is behind brands such as Revolucion de Cuba, has been hit hard as young people cut back on nights out due to the cost-of-living crisis.

In a statement to the stock market yesterday, Revolution said it is weighing up several options as it fights for its survival.

This includes tapping investors for fresh funds to stay afloat or a sale. Shares, which listed for the second time in March 2015 at 200p, crashed 51.7 per cent, or 1.5p, to 1.4p.

Rolls-Royce was on the rise after Morgan Stanley hiked its target price to 520p from 400p.

Shares in the jet engine maker, which have more than quadrupled in value since its boss Turbo Tufan Erginbilgic took charge in January last year, added 1.6 per cent, or 6.9p, to 428p.

Stock Watch - YouGov YouGov sank into the red as clients cut back on spending. The polling firm said budgets have remained under pressure due to rising costs, adding that some customers are taking longer to make decisions. YouGovs profits halved to 10.4million in the six months to the end of January. It added that trading in the UK was strong while its performance in the US was affected by volatility in the e-sports and gaming sectors. Shares fell 6 per cent, or 70p, to 1100p.

Elsewhere, Smiths Group chief executive Paul Keel is stepping down after less than three years in the job.

He will be replaced by company veteran Roland Carter, who has been at the engineering group for 30 years.

The shake-up came as Smiths reported record half-year orders and a 3.9 per cent rise in revenues to 1.5billion.

The firm will buy back 50million of shares from investors between now and the end of September. Shares rose 2.2 per cent, or 36p, to 1690p.

William Hill owner 888 is changing its name to Evoke as its new chief executive Per Widerstrom tries to draw a line under a year of scandal after it was hit with a record 19million fine from regulators in 2023. Shares were up 6.2 per cent, or 5.2p, to 89p.

An update from Bellway fuelled hopes that the green shoots of recovery are emerging in the housing market as mortgage rates ease.

The company said it is more optimistic following a tough first half that saw revenues fall 29.6 per cent to 1.27billion in the six months to the end of January.

Profits slumped 61.6 per cent to 117.4million.

But it said reservations in the past six weeks were 20 per cent higher than the same period last year. Shares rose 2.1 per cent, or 56p, to 2688p.

Fellow builder Vistry struck a deal with housing association Abri to build 1,500 homes in Arundel at the Ford Airfield Site. Shares added 1.4 per cent, or 17p, to 1231p.
Travis Perkins chief executive Nick Roberts will step down after five difficult years at the helm of Britain's biggest building materials supplier.

Roberts, 55, has agreed to remain in the role until a successor is identified, the group said in a statement on Tuesday.

While he will be eligible to receive a pro-rata bonus in the time he remains with the firm, Travis Perkins said Roberts 'will not receive any payments or compensation for loss of office'.

The group's chair, Jasmine Whitbread, said: 'The Board fully recognises the underperformance of the business over recent reporting periods.'

Review: Earlier this month, Travis Perkins said it was reviewing some of its consumer-facing Toolstation businesses in Europe

Roberts' upcoming departure comes weeks after Travis Perkins flagged another year of challenging demand, following a 39 per cent drop in its 2023 profit.

Earlier this month, the company said it was reviewing some of its consumer-facing Toolstation businesses in Europe.

Travis Perkins shares rose 0.58 per cent or 4.2p to 730.60p on Wednesday, having fallen over 20 per cent in the last year.

On Wednesday, Roberts, said: 'Travis Perkins is a great company with a talented team and I have been privileged to serve as CEO for the last five years.

Quitting: Nick Roberts, the chief executive of Travis Perkins, will step down from the role

'I am proud of the progress we have made in modernising the company. While the Board identifies my successor, I will continue to rigorously execute on our plan and drive performance.'

Travis Perkins said it was undertaking a 'thorough search process' for its next chief executive.

Whitbread, said: 'On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Nick for his dedication and contribution to the business over the last five years.

'While there has been good progress made in modernising the business, the Board fully recognises the under performance of the business over recent reporting periods, in the context of continued economic challenges and end market weakness.

'We remain fully focused on improving profitability and enhancing cash generation, as well as accelerating changes to our operating model to create a simpler, more efficient business, well positioned to emerge stronger when markets recover and to grow shareholder value.'

Earlier this month, the group said it was planning for another year of challenging demand after reporting a drop in 2023 profit, amid a slowdown in new-build housing and renovations.

It said it was planning to potentially exit Toolstation France and reviewing strategic options for Toolstation Benelux. The business supplies tools and building supplies to trade and do-it-yourself customers.
North Sea oil and gas producer Ithaca Energy saw its annual profit fall sharply in 2023, which it blamed on the UK government's energy tax and project impairments.

The FTSE 250-listed firm's annual profit fell from $1.03billion to $215.6million last year, newly published results show.

It was charged $333.4million under the UK's Energy Profits Levy (EPL), which was extended for a year by Jeremy Hunt in his latest budget earlier this month.

Ithica said the impact of the EPL has forced it to scale back investment in UK projects.

Profit drop: North Sea oil and gas producer Ithaca Energy saw its annual profit fall sharply in 2023

Ithaca's interim chief executive, Iain Lewis, added: 'The energy profits levy continues to have a direct impact on investment in the UK North Sea, with projects across our operated and non-operated deferred or cancelled.

'The extension of the levy by a further year to a sunset date of March 2029, highlights the continued fiscal uncertainty our sector faces.'

Falling investment in North Sea crude and natural gas extraction helped drag the UK's production sector into contraction in the three months to January 2024, Office for National Statistics data showed earlier this month.

UK oil production was shown to be at its weakest this century, falling two-fifths below 2019 levels in the second half of last year, amid reports firms are slashing investment in response to the UK's EPL.

In March, Harbour Energy revealed that the majority of its profits had been wiped out by the EPL for the second consecutive year.

Harbour Energy posted a pre-tax profit of $597million for the year to 7 March, falling to just $32million after tax, with $525million paid out to the energy windfall tax  an effective tax rate of 95 per cent.

The EPL was introduced in 2022 in response to booming oil and gas profitability as households struggled to pay their bills.



But North Sea-focused Ithaca also revealed on Wednesday that Italy's biggest energy company, Eni, had given it a four-week exclusivity period to make a potential offer for UK exploration and production assets including those of Eni's recently acquired Neptune Energy.

Buying Eni's UK assets could add a further 40,000 to 45,000 boe/d to output, taking the total to more than 100,000 boe/d, Ithaca said.

The group produced around 70,239 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) in 2023, down from record output of 71,403 boe/d, but in line with guidance of between 68,000 and 74,000 boe/d.

Ithaca's decline in annual earnings was capped by trading gains of $266million, which helped it realise a gas price of $111/boe after hedging, compared with $76/boe before hedging.

Ithaca is targeting production of between 56,000 and 61,000 boe/d this year, before rising again towards 80,000 boe/d by 2027.

Ithaca shares rose 2.39 per cent or 3.4p to 145.60p on Wednesday.

Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, said: 'Ithaca Energy may talk about reducing investment in the UK North Sea thanks to the Energy Profits Levy, but its actions and words are somewhat at odds given the announcement of a proposed share-based deal with Italys Eni to acquire the latters UK oil and gas fields.

'This deal makes Ithaca the second largest operator in the region and leaves Eni with a near-40 per cent stake in the group.

'That said, disquiet in the industry at the way companies have been treated by the Treasury is real, with the lack of consistency, as much as the absolute rate of tax, a bone of contention in the sector.'
UK tech pioneer Nanoco Group swung to a first-half operating profit after receiving its first-ever commercial production orders.

The University of Manchester spinoff scored a 2.4million operating profit in the six months ending January, compared to a 2.1million loss for the equivalent period the previous year.

In November, the Runcorn-based company fulfilled orders on two first-generation materials for use in infra-red sensing applications in electronic devices, such as cameras and imagers.

Good result: Nanoco scored a 2.4million operating profit in the six months ending January

Nanoco also signed deals with STMicroelectronics and an Asian chemicals business for work on 'higher-performing' second-generation materials.

Consequently, its revenue from licences jumped from just 52,000 to 3.1million, which offset a drop in underlying turnover caused by the timing between finishing previous development agreements and starting on new contracts.

The group further benefited from a 2.5million foreign-exchange hedge gain related to an intellectual property settlement with Samsung.

Nanoco began suing the South Korean conglomerate in 2020, claiming that its quantum dot technology was used without permission in the company's LED televisions.

The case was resolved in February last year when Samsung agreed to pay the firm $150million (123million) across two tranches.

After receiving a second tranche worth $71.75million, the company has decided to hand 33million to shareholders via a tender offer and share buyback scheme.

The remainder will be used to invest in 'operational capability, enhancing future growth prospects, and improving gross margins'.

Brian Tenner, chief executive of Nanoco, said: 'Having spent five years fighting for financial survival, we have now been able to make some cautious but important strategic investments in new capabilities and our resilience as a supply chain partner.

'These will accelerate our development plans and commercial progress, as well as allowing us to self-fund IP licensing efforts.'

Tenner and the rest of Nanoco's board survived an attempted ousting last summer by a small group of investors who were unhappy about how they handled the dispute with Samsung.

After proxy advisers Glass Lewis and Institutional Shareholder Services said they backed the board, more than 80 per cent of Nanoco investors voted against all 12 resolutions put forward at a general meeting.

Nanoco Group shares were 0.45 per cent down at 22.1p on Wednesday morning, but they have grown by around 28 per cent over the past six months.
Convicted Libor trader Tom Hayes has vowed to fight on to clear his name after losing his appeal against conviction.

Hayes, who was jailed in 2015 for manipulating benchmark lending rate Libor, will now seek to take his case to the Supreme Court.

The former Citigroup and UBS trader claims he was made a scapegoat for the financial crisis.

After yesterdays judgment at the Court of Appeal, he said: Im a fighter not a quitter.

His supporters include the Tory MP David Davis, who said the case was a continuing miscarriage of justice.

Upheld: Tom Hayes (pictured), who was jailed in 2015 for manipulating benchmark lending rate Libor, has lost his appeal against conviction

Hayes said he still wanted the opportunity to be exonerated and move on with my life. He added: It would be the ability for my son to have a father who no longer had a criminal conviction. I havent fought all of these years for nothing.

And he called the approach of the courts  compared with other countries  an Alice in Wonderland situation.

His latest appeal  and that of former Barclays trader Carlo Palombo  was brought after a landmark case in the US in which the convictions of two former Deutsche Bank traders were overturned.

The case was heard by Lord Justice Bean and two other senior judges.

Hayes occasionally shook his head and later placed his head in his hands as Bean read out the judgment, following a hearing this month.

The judge said the US case is not and could not be relevant when considering the issues.

He rejected a further claim that the jury was misdirected by the trial judge.

Bean said indisputable documentary evidence showed Hayes was attempting to move the Libor rate accompanied by attempts to maintain secrecy while he had made frank admissions of dishonesty.

Both carried the clear implication that he knew what he was doing was not permitted by Libor, the judge said.

Hayes case centres on the London interbank offered rate (Libor), which was once used to price trillions of dollars worth of financial trades globally.

The rate, which has since been scrapped, was calculated using submissions from traders on the rate at which banks would lend to each other.

Hayes and Palombo were accused of dishonestly conspiring with others to manipulate the rate to benefit their banks trading positions.

Support: Tory MP David Davis said the case was a continuing miscarriage of justice

Hayes was jailed for 14 years in 2015, later reduced to 11 on appeal, and served half his sentence. Palombo was jailed for four years. They were among nine convicted in the UK.

Outside court, Hayes said the judgment was a shock. We really believed and hoped that the decision would be different, he said. I felt we made very strong arguments.

Its not consistent with French laws, German laws, American laws, were in a very sort of Alice in Wonderland situation here.

He said that even if the judges do not allow the case to progress to the Supreme Court, he could pursue it in Europe, adding: We havent given up.

The idea that you can be sitting in America and do something that would be deemed criminal in the UK is crazy.

He said of his initial sentence: I was definitely a scapegoat and given a sentence which destroyed my life in pretty much every regard.

Davis, a Tory former Cabinet minister, said there was a spectacular difference of law on the treatment of Libor between Britain, and America and Europe, which needs to be resolved at the highest level, namely at the Supreme Court.

He added: I think the US court understands this market better than the British judges. Im afraid I think its a continuing miscarriage of justice.

The Serious Fraud Office said: The judgment is clear that these convictions for fraud are still as relevant today as ten years ago.

No one is above the law and the court has recognised that these convictions stand firm.

Hayes and Palombo have 14 days to apply for permission to appeal to the Supreme Court.
Franco-Nevada Co. (TSE:FNV  Get Free Report) (NYSE:FNV) Director Paul Brink sold 2,315 shares of Franco-Nevada stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$157.33, for a total value of C$364,221.50.

Paul Brink also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Thursday, March 21st, Paul Brink sold 3,445 shares of Franco-Nevada stock. The stock was sold at an average price of C$158.93, for a total value of C$547,513.85.

Franco-Nevada Price Performance

Shares of FNV traded down C$1.40 during midday trading on Tuesday, hitting C$154.53. The companys stock had a trading volume of 364,331 shares, compared to its average volume of 384,711. The company has a quick ratio of 23.26, a current ratio of 41.21 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.63. Franco-Nevada Co. has a one year low of C$139.19 and a one year high of C$217.70. The stock has a market capitalization of C$29.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -46.69, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 5.00 and a beta of 0.59. The companys fifty day simple moving average is C$148.23 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is C$160.45.

Franco-Nevada Increases Dividend

Franco-Nevada ( TSE:FNV Get Free Report ) (NYSE:FNV) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, March 5th. The company reported C$1.23 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of C$1.07 by C$0.16. Franco-Nevada had a negative return on equity of 7.65% and a negative net margin of 38.33%. The firm had revenue of C$412.95 million during the quarter. As a group, equities analysts expect that Franco-Nevada Co. will post 4.038591 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 28th. Investors of record on Thursday, March 14th will be paid a $0.477 dividend. This is an increase from Franco-Nevadas previous quarterly dividend of $0.47. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, March 13th. This represents a $1.91 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.23%. Franco-Nevadas dividend payout ratio is presently -58.91%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts have commented on FNV shares. National Bankshares cut their price target on shares of Franco-Nevada from C$172.50 to C$170.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, March 7th. Stifel Nicolaus reduced their target price on shares of Franco-Nevada from C$186.00 to C$182.00 in a research report on Friday, January 26th. Scotiabank lowered their price target on shares of Franco-Nevada from C$141.00 to C$139.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, March 7th. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price target on shares of Franco-Nevada from C$200.00 to C$195.00 in a research report on Wednesday, March 6th. Finally, Raymond James reduced their price target on Franco-Nevada from C$146.00 to C$138.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, March 7th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of C$189.46.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on FNV

About Franco-Nevada

(Get Free Report)

Franco-Nevada Corporation operates as a gold-focused royalty and streaming company in South America, Central America, Mexico, the United States, Canada, and internationally. It operates through Mining and Energy segments. The company manages its portfolio with a focus on precious metals, such as gold, silver, and platinum group metals; and engages in the sale of crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids through a third-party marketing agent.

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Trust Co of the South acquired a new position in shares of General Electric (NYSE:GE  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 5,842 shares of the conglomerates stock, valued at approximately $745,000.

Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. CGC Financial Services LLC raised its holdings in General Electric by 90.2% in the 4th quarter. CGC Financial Services LLC now owns 232 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 110 shares in the last quarter. Global Wealth Management Investment Advisory Inc. raised its holdings in General Electric by 808.1% in the 1st quarter. Global Wealth Management Investment Advisory Inc. now owns 336 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $31,000 after acquiring an additional 299 shares in the last quarter. Financial Freedom LLC acquired a new position in General Electric in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $32,000. Macroview Investment Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of General Electric by 43.4% in the 3rd quarter. Macroview Investment Management LLC now owns 317 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $35,000 after buying an additional 96 shares in the last quarter. Finally, DHJJ Financial Advisors Ltd. bought a new stake in General Electric during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $37,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.77% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, SVP Michael J. Holston sold 22,055 shares of the stock in a transaction on 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 sale, the senior vice president now owns 56,284 shares in the company, valued at $8,153,863.08. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other news, SVP Michael J. Holston sold 22,055 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on 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 in the company, valued at approximately $8,153,863.08. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Michael J. Holston sold 13,601 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $135.55, for a total transaction of $1,843,615.55. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 48,339 shares in the company, valued at $6,552,351.45. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.66% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

General Electric Stock Performance

Shares of GE traded up $0.11 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $173.60. 4,033,040 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 5,947,899. General Electric has a 1 year low of $92.11 and a 1 year high of $177.50. The stock has a market cap of $189.79 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.74, a P/E/G ratio of 2.32 and a beta of 1.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a current ratio of 1.18. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $149.60 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $128.58.

General Electric (NYSE:GE  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, January 23rd. The conglomerate reported $1.03 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.90 by $0.13. General Electric had a net margin of 13.95% and a return on equity of 10.88%. The firm had revenue of $19.42 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $17.27 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.24 earnings per share. General Electrics revenue for the quarter was up 15.4% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts anticipate that General Electric will post 4.57 earnings per share for the current year.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have recently weighed in on GE. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price objective on General Electric from $180.00 to $195.00 in a report on Monday, March 11th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price target on shares of General Electric from $144.00 to $148.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded shares of General Electric from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and lifted their price target for the company from $166.00 to $180.00 in a research report on Friday, March 8th. TheStreet upgraded shares of General Electric from a c+ rating to a b+ rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Finally, Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of General Electric from $135.00 to $148.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday, December 11th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $146.54.

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About General Electric

(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.

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Trust Co of the South purchased a new stake in iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (NYSEARCA:IWD  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 6,242 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $1,031,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of IWD. Studio Investment Management LLC grew its position in iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF by 115.0% in the 4th quarter. Studio Investment Management LLC now owns 172 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $26,000 after purchasing an additional 92 shares in the last quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. grew its position in iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF by 565.4% in the 2nd quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 173 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 147 shares in the last quarter. Headinvest LLC bought a new stake in iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF in the 3rd quarter worth about $29,000. Peachtree Investment Partners LLC grew its position in iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF by 84.8% in the 3rd quarter. Peachtree Investment Partners LLC now owns 194 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 89 shares in the last quarter. Finally, BluePath Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF in the 3rd quarter worth about $36,000.

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iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF Stock Performance

IWD traded down $0.07 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $175.71. The company had a trading volume of 1,180,378 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,184,847. The stock has a market cap of $56.12 billion, a PE ratio of 13.53 and a beta of 0.95. iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF has a 12-month low of $143.34 and a 12-month high of $177.47. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $169.48 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $160.77.

iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF Profile

iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares Russell 1000 Value Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the large capitalization value sector of the U.S. equity market, as represented by the Russell 1000 Value Index (the Index).

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PFG Investments LLC decreased its stake in shares of Consolidated Edison, Inc. (NYSE:ED  Free Report) by 6.2% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 19,104 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 1,268 shares during the quarter. PFG Investments LLCs holdings in Consolidated Edison were worth $1,738,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other large investors also recently modified their holdings of ED. Roundview Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Consolidated Edison during the 1st quarter worth approximately $680,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP grew its position in Consolidated Edison by 22.6% in the 1st quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 1,030,616 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $97,579,000 after purchasing an additional 190,138 shares during the period. Sei Investments Co. grew its position in Consolidated Edison by 54.4% in the 1st quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 18,204 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,693,000 after purchasing an additional 6,412 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers grew its holdings in shares of Consolidated Edison by 1.3% during the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 19,489 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,845,000 after purchasing an additional 254 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Consolidated Edison in the first quarter worth approximately $214,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 66.29% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several brokerages have issued reports on ED. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on Consolidated Edison from $84.00 to $87.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 29th. Royal Bank of Canada lowered their price objective on Consolidated Edison from $94.00 to $93.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, February 16th. KeyCorp upgraded Consolidated Edison from an underweight rating to a sector weight rating in a research report on Thursday, January 4th. LADENBURG THALM/SH SH initiated coverage on Consolidated Edison in a research report on Wednesday, January 3rd. They issued a neutral rating and a $92.50 price objective for the company. Finally, Scotiabank boosted their price objective on Consolidated Edison from $90.00 to $91.00 and gave the company a sector underperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 20th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $87.96.

Consolidated Edison Stock Down 1.1 %

ED traded down $1.01 during trading on Tuesday, reaching $87.49. The stock had a trading volume of 1,411,958 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,784,672. The stocks 50 day moving average is $89.03 and its two-hundred day moving average is $89.55. The company has a current ratio of 1.01, a quick ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.04. The company has a market capitalization of $30.23 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.19, a P/E/G ratio of 8.35 and a beta of 0.35. Consolidated Edison, Inc. has a one year low of $80.46 and a one year high of $100.92.

Consolidated Edison (NYSE:ED  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 15th. The utilities provider reported $1.00 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.98 by $0.02. Consolidated Edison had a return on equity of 8.41% and a net margin of 17.19%. The business had revenue of $3.44 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.70 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.81 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was down 14.6% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts expect that Consolidated Edison, Inc. will post 5.3 earnings per share for the current year.

Consolidated Edison Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, February 14th were paid a $0.83 dividend. This is a boost from Consolidated Edisons previous quarterly dividend of $0.81. This represents a $3.32 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.79%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, February 13th. Consolidated Edisons dividend payout ratio is currently 46.24%.

About Consolidated Edison

(Free Report)

Consolidated Edison, Inc, through its subsidiaries, engages in the regulated electric, gas, and steam delivery businesses in the United States. It offers electric services to approximately 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County; gas to approximately 1.1 million customers in Manhattan, the Bronx, parts of Queens, and Westchester County; and steam to approximately 1,530 customers in parts of Manhattan.

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Kozak & Associates Inc. reduced its position in Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE:CAT  Free Report) by 38.8% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 1,457 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 924 shares during the quarter. Kozak & Associates Inc.s holdings in Caterpillar were worth $419,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Caterpillar by 272.4% in the first quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC now owns 108 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 79 shares during the period. Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Caterpillar by 730.8% in the first quarter. Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management LLC now owns 108 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 95 shares in the last quarter. First Capital Advisors Group LLC. purchased a new position in Caterpillar during the second quarter worth about $30,000. CGC Financial Services LLC purchased a new position in Caterpillar during the second quarter worth about $31,000. Finally, SkyView Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Caterpillar during the first quarter worth about $35,000. 70.98% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Activity

In other Caterpillar news, insider Lange Bob De sold 21,194 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $325.52, for a total value of $6,899,070.88. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 61,092 shares of the companys stock, valued at $19,886,667.84. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other news, insider Lange Bob De sold 21,194 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $325.52, for a total transaction of $6,899,070.88. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 61,092 shares in the company, valued at approximately $19,886,667.84. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CFO Andrew R. J. Bonfield sold 10,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, January 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $300.04, for a total value of $3,000,400.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 67,317 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $20,197,792.68. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 45,769 shares of company stock worth $14,509,306 over the last quarter. 0.33% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have commented on the company. Stifel Nicolaus upped their price target on Caterpillar from $285.00 to $293.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 19th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on Caterpillar from $290.00 to $325.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, February 6th. Citigroup raised their price target on Caterpillar from $255.00 to $340.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Monday, February 12th. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their target price on Caterpillar from $274.00 to $357.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. Finally, TD Cowen lifted their price target on Caterpillar from $300.00 to $338.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 6th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $297.89.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on CAT

Caterpillar Price Performance

Shares of NYSE CAT traded up $0.75 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $356.70. The company had a trading volume of 1,637,239 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,480,181. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $322.35 and its 200 day simple moving average is $286.12. The firm has a market cap of $178.14 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.71, a PEG ratio of 1.71 and a beta of 1.16. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.25, a quick ratio of 0.87 and a current ratio of 1.35. Caterpillar Inc. has a one year low of $204.04 and a one year high of $365.52.

Caterpillar (NYSE:CAT  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, February 5th. The industrial products company reported $5.23 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $4.76 by $0.47. The firm had revenue of $17.07 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $17.06 billion. Caterpillar had a return on equity of 56.99% and a net margin of 15.41%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $3.86 earnings per share. On average, research analysts predict that Caterpillar Inc. will post 21.25 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Caterpillar

(Free Report)

Caterpillar Inc manufactures and sells construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives in worldwide. Its Construction Industries segment offers asphalt pavers, compactors, road reclaimers, forestry machines, cold planers, material handlers, track-type tractors, excavators, telehandlers, motor graders, and pipelayers; compact track, wheel, track-type, backhoe, and skid steer loaders; and related parts and tools.

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At the event (Photo: WildAct)

The award aims to recognize the efforts and devotion of the Forest Ranger force, the specialized forest protection force, and the Community Conservation Team (CCT) at Chu Yang Sin National Park.

Chu Yang Sin National Park is one of Vietnam's biodiversity hotspots that have to be conserved. With a total size of around 60,000 hectares, the Chu Yang Sin National Park only has 100 forest rangers, which means that each ranger will be responsible for 600 hectares of forest. This demonstrates the enormous demands and challenges that the forces face.

As a result, the "Guardians of Chu Yang Sin" award was created to honor the remarkable efforts to preserve the environment and biodiversity of the Annamite Range. Over the three months of nomination, more than 30 applicants and nominees have submitted astounding figures regarding their accomplishments in their relentless efforts to maintain the safety of Chu Yang Sin forest.

Following a strict procedure, eight exceptional individuals and teams were recognized and awarded a total value of over 100 million VND based on their excellent achievements in previous years.

Specifically, Mr. Y Noi Long Ding from Forest Ranger Station No. 7 and Forest Ranger Officer Do Van Lam from Forest Ranger Station No. 10 were awarded the Exceptional Rangers Awards.

Mrs. Le Thi Ha from the Scientific Research Department was awarded in recognition of the Exceptional Science Officer Award. And Mr. Nguyen Van Luong, Deputy Director of Chu Yang Sin National Park, was awarded in recognition of the Exceptional Achievement Award.

The Ranger Stations No. 5, No. 4, and No. 10 were awarded in recognition of the Exceptional Ranger Teams; and the Community Conservation Team was awarded in recognition of the Exceptional Patrolling Team.

"As a M'Nong person, Chu Yang Sin is like my home. Because this is where you can develop and progress. Being a Forest Ranger allows me to show my love for the Chu Yang Sin forest. Today, obtaining the Forest Ranger award motivates me even more to carry out my duties and do my best to maintain its natural treasures, Mr. Y Noi Long Ding.

Furthermore, the award provides a chance for organizers to acknowledge, encourage and promote awareness among Vietnamese citizens about the critical role of rangers in conservation efforts, as well as exchange experiences so the narrative of the Forest Ranger profession attracts a larger audience.

Mr. Bui Xuan Truong, the Secretary of the Vietnam Association of National Parks and Protected Areas (VNPPA), shared his worry about several problems and hazards encountered in forest conservation work: Forest management and conservation is a critical and urgent responsibility for special-use and protected forests. However, this action encounters obstacles and challenges, just as rangers and forest protection personnel do. As a result, forest conservation and protection awards are critical for on-time encouraging and rewarding organizations and people who have made excellent contributions to forest management and protection operations.

Dr. Trang Nguyen, the Founder and Executive Director of WildAct Vietnam, hopes that in the future, similar initiatives from many other units will assist the Forest Ranger profession to be acknowledged more accurately and equitably by the public,

Forest rangers and specialist forest protection personnel faced many challenges and prejudices from the public. These awards hopefully will create more motivation for forest rangers, knowing they are being supported, appreciated and that they are not alone in this challenging working environment, he said./.
Waterway Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 3,549 shares of the energy producers stock, valued at approximately $412,000.

A number of other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in COP. West Tower Group LLC purchased a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 2nd quarter valued at about $27,000. Orion Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 3rd quarter valued at about $27,000. RVW Wealth LLC purchased a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 3rd quarter valued at about $28,000. Fairfield Bush & CO. purchased a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 1st quarter valued at about $31,000. Finally, Oliver Lagore Vanvalin Investment Group increased its position in ConocoPhillips by 63.1% during the 3rd quarter. Oliver Lagore Vanvalin Investment Group now owns 287 shares of the energy producers stock valued at $34,000 after purchasing an additional 111 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.36% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, VP Christopher P. Delk sold 8,505 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $112.06, for a total transaction of $953,070.30. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other news, SVP Heather G. Hrap sold 4,548 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $110.55, for a total transaction of $502,781.40. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 2,654 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $293,399.70. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, VP Christopher P. Delk sold 8,505 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $112.06, for a total transaction of $953,070.30. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 700,775 shares of company stock valued at $87,615,169. 0.37% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

ConocoPhillips Stock Performance

Shares of COP traded down $0.21 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $126.02. The stock had a trading volume of 5,203,057 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,827,312. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36, a quick ratio of 1.29 and a current ratio of 1.43. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $113.14 and a 200 day moving average price of $115.98. ConocoPhillips has a fifty-two week low of $95.60 and a fifty-two week high of $127.35. The firm has a market capitalization of $148.25 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.91, a PEG ratio of 2.80 and a beta of 1.23.

ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, February 8th. The energy producer reported $2.40 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.08 by $0.32. The firm had revenue of $15.31 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.47 billion. ConocoPhillips had a net margin of 18.71% and a return on equity of 22.08%. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $2.71 EPS. As a group, research analysts anticipate that ConocoPhillips will post 8.79 EPS for the current year.

ConocoPhillips Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Investors of record on Monday, February 19th were issued a $0.78 dividend. This represents a $3.12 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.48%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 15th. This is a positive change from ConocoPhillipss previous quarterly dividend of $0.58. ConocoPhillipss payout ratio is presently 25.61%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Piper Sandler cut their price objective on shares of ConocoPhillips from $139.00 to $133.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, March 14th. UBS Group lifted their price objective on shares of ConocoPhillips from $138.00 to $143.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 14th. Susquehanna cut their price objective on shares of ConocoPhillips from $152.00 to $133.00 and set a positive rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, January 26th. Scotiabank lifted their price objective on shares of ConocoPhillips from $115.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Friday, February 9th. Finally, Johnson Rice downgraded shares of ConocoPhillips from an accumulate rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, December 14th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eleven have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $135.12.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on COP

ConocoPhillips Profile

(Free Report)

ConocoPhillips explores for, produces, transports, and markets crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and natural gas liquids in the United States, Canada, China, Libya, Malaysia, Norway, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company's portfolio includes unconventional plays in North America; conventional assets in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia; global LNG developments; oil sands assets in Canada; and an inventory of global exploration prospects.

Further Reading

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Canvas Wealth Advisors LLC decreased its stake in shares of Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:PLTR  Free Report) by 9.0% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 152,576 shares of the companys stock after selling 15,164 shares during the period. Palantir Technologies makes up 0.9% of Canvas Wealth Advisors LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 27th biggest position. Canvas Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Palantir Technologies were worth $2,557,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of Palantir Technologies by 11.1% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 187,338,667 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,997,419,000 after purchasing an additional 18,756,392 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. lifted its position in shares of Palantir Technologies by 4.5% during the 2nd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 103,052,030 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,579,788,000 after acquiring an additional 4,420,419 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp boosted its stake in shares of Palantir Technologies by 0.9% during the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 35,816,153 shares of the companys stock worth $549,062,000 after acquiring an additional 312,531 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Palantir Technologies by 3.3% in the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 23,712,480 shares of the companys stock worth $200,086,000 after acquiring an additional 747,652 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised its position in shares of Palantir Technologies by 26.1% during the third quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 22,614,555 shares of the companys stock worth $361,833,000 after purchasing an additional 4,675,824 shares during the period. 45.65% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Palantir Technologies Price Performance

PLTR stock traded up $0.37 on Tuesday, reaching $24.88. 43,481,903 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 72,433,250. The firm has a market capitalization of $55.05 billion, a PE ratio of 275.14, a PEG ratio of 5.93 and a beta of 2.82. Palantir Technologies Inc. has a 12 month low of $7.28 and a 12 month high of $27.50. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $22.07 and its 200 day moving average price is $18.92.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Palantir Technologies ( NYSE:PLTR Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Monday, February 5th. The company reported $0.03 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.04 by ($0.01). The firm had revenue of $608.35 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $603.48 million. Palantir Technologies had a return on equity of 6.17% and a net margin of 9.43%. As a group, research analysts expect that Palantir Technologies Inc. will post 0.16 EPS for the current fiscal year.

A number of research firms have commented on PLTR. Citigroup raised shares of Palantir Technologies from a sell rating to a neutral rating and upped their price objective for the company from $10.00 to $20.00 in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. Wedbush reiterated an outperform rating and set a $35.00 price objective (up from $30.00) on shares of Palantir Technologies in a research report on Friday, March 8th. HSBC downgraded shares of Palantir Technologies from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $22.00 target price on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, February 14th. Raymond James lifted their price target on Palantir Technologies from $22.00 to $25.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, February 6th. Finally, Bank of America upped their target price on Palantir Technologies from $24.00 to $28.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, March 6th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Palantir Technologies currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $18.21.

Check Out Our Latest Report on Palantir Technologies

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Palantir Technologies news, Director Alexandra W. Schiff sold 4,000 shares of Palantir Technologies stock in a transaction on Wednesday, January 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $16.11, for a total transaction of $64,440.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 200,783 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,234,614.13. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other Palantir Technologies news, Director Alexandra W. Schiff sold 4,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, January 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $16.11, for a total transaction of $64,440.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 200,783 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,234,614.13. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, insider Heather A. Planishek sold 32,828 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $25.95, for a total transaction of $851,886.60. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 662,006 shares in the company, valued at $17,179,055.70. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 7,455,273 shares of company stock worth $184,293,942 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 13.96% of the companys stock.

About Palantir Technologies

(Free Report)

Palantir Technologies Inc builds and deploys software platforms for the intelligence community to assist in counterterrorism investigations and operations in the United States, the United Kingdom, and internationally. The company provides Palantir Gotham, a software platform which enables users to identify patterns hidden deep within datasets, ranging from signals intelligence sources to reports from confidential informants, as well as facilitates the handoff between analysts and operational users, helping operators plan and execute real-world responses to threats that have been identified within the platform.

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jvl associates llc grew its position in iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSEARCA:IWM  Free Report) by 29.4% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 9,616 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 2,183 shares during the quarter. iShares Russell 2000 ETF comprises about 0.9% of jvl associates llcs portfolio, making the stock its 16th largest position. jvl associates llcs holdings in iShares Russell 2000 ETF were worth $1,930,000 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. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC increased its stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 113,180.6% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 334,806,395 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $58,376,843,000 after buying an additional 334,510,840 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley increased its stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 34.8% in the 3rd quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 19,634,415 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $3,470,187,000 after buying an additional 5,063,767 shares during the period. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund increased its stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 11.1% in the 3rd quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund now owns 11,206,000 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,980,548,000 after buying an additional 1,115,400 shares during the period. Empower Advisory Group LLC increased its stake in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 0.5% in the 3rd quarter. Empower Advisory Group LLC now owns 7,445,800 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,315,971,000 after buying an additional 33,773 shares during the period. Finally, Jones Financial Companies Lllp increased its position in iShares Russell 2000 ETF by 2.4% during the 3rd quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 7,106,992 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,256,090,000 after purchasing an additional 164,788 shares during the period.

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iShares Russell 2000 ETF Trading Down 0.2 %

NYSEARCA IWM traded down $0.37 during trading on Tuesday, reaching $205.17. 23,171,256 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 39,488,391. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $199.81 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $187.96. iShares Russell 2000 ETF has a 12-month low of $161.67 and a 12-month high of $210.41.

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.

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Waterway Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor acquired 1,159 shares of the aircraft producers stock, valued at approximately $302,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of BA. Rothschild Investment LLC IL raised its stake in Boeing by 21.1% in the third quarter. Rothschild Investment LLC IL now owns 75,101 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $14,395,000 after buying an additional 13,079 shares in the last quarter. Meridian Wealth Management LLC raised its stake in Boeing by 86.8% in the third quarter. Meridian Wealth Management LLC now owns 24,776 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $4,749,000 after buying an additional 11,510 shares in the last quarter. Morse Asset Management Inc raised its stake in Boeing by 65.0% in the third quarter. Morse Asset Management Inc now owns 7,999 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $1,533,000 after buying an additional 3,152 shares in the last quarter. Peregrine Asset Advisers Inc. raised its stake in Boeing by 1,335.3% in the third quarter. Peregrine Asset Advisers Inc. now owns 36,443 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $6,985,000 after buying an additional 33,904 shares in the last quarter. Finally, California Public Employees Retirement System raised its stake in Boeing by 2.0% in the third quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 1,037,044 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $198,781,000 after buying an additional 19,847 shares in the last quarter. 64.82% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

BA has been the subject of a number of research reports. Susquehanna decreased their price target on shares of Boeing from $265.00 to $230.00 and set a positive rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, March 21st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their target price on shares of Boeing from $270.00 to $230.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday. TD Cowen decreased their target price on shares of Boeing from $275.00 to $230.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Monday. William Blair began coverage on shares of Boeing in a research note on Tuesday, December 12th. They set an outperform rating for the company. Finally, Edward Jones downgraded shares of Boeing from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, January 8th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $242.65.

Boeing Stock Down 2.0 %

BA traded down $3.88 during trading on Tuesday, hitting $187.53. The companys stock had a trading volume of 8,959,260 shares, compared to its average volume of 10,572,038. The Boeing Company has a one year low of $176.25 and a one year high of $267.54. The firm has a market cap of $114.42 billion, a PE ratio of -50.96, a P/E/G ratio of 24.80 and a beta of 1.52. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $201.07 and its 200-day simple moving average is $210.13.

Boeing (NYSE:BA  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, January 31st. The aircraft producer reported ($0.47) earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.72) by $0.25. The business had revenue of $22.02 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $21.14 billion. The firms revenue was up 10.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted ($1.75) earnings per share. Equities research analysts expect that The Boeing Company will post 1.9 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Boeing Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Boeing Company, together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, sells, services, and supports commercial jetliners, military aircraft, satellites, missile defense, human space flight and launch systems, and services worldwide. The company operates through Commercial Airplanes; Defense, Space & Security; and Global Services segments.

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PFG Investments LLC grew its position in shares of Visa Inc. (NYSE:V  Free Report) by 7.5% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 12,362 shares of the credit-card processors stock after buying an additional 867 shares during the quarter. Visa accounts for approximately 0.6% of PFG Investments LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 29th biggest holding. PFG Investments LLCs holdings in Visa were worth $3,218,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. BCK Partners Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Visa during the 1st quarter worth approximately $2,717,000. Markel Corp increased its stake in shares of Visa by 0.3% during the 1st quarter. Markel Corp now owns 961,105 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $213,144,000 after purchasing an additional 3,065 shares during the last quarter. AMI Investment Management Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Visa during the 1st quarter worth approximately $2,323,000. Ergoteles LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Visa during the 1st quarter worth approximately $538,000. Finally, XTX Topco Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of Visa during the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,496,000. Institutional investors own 82.15% of the companys stock.

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Insider Transactions at Visa

In other news, insider Rajat Taneja sold 36,546 shares of Visa stock in a transaction on Friday, January 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $270.20, for a total transaction of $9,874,729.20. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 232,112 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $62,716,662.40. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other Visa news, insider Rajat Taneja sold 36,546 shares of the businesss 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 sale, the insider now directly owns 232,112 shares of the companys stock, valued at $62,716,662.40. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO Ryan Mcinerney sold 8,150 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $273.39, for a total transaction of $2,228,128.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 47,311 shares of company stock valued at $12,832,129. Insiders own 0.19% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

V has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Royal Bank of Canada raised their price target on shares of Visa from $290.00 to $309.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Monness Crespi & Hardt started coverage on shares of Visa in a research note on Wednesday, December 20th. They issued a neutral rating for the company. Evercore ISI lifted their price objective on shares of Visa from $325.00 to $335.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday. UBS Group lifted their price objective on shares of Visa from $305.00 to $315.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Finally, William Blair reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Visa in a research note on Friday, January 26th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eighteen have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $295.29.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on V

Visa Price Performance

Shares of NYSE V traded up $0.05 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $281.26. 8,748,794 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 5,655,137. Visa Inc. has a 52 week low of $216.14 and a 52 week high of $290.96. The company has a quick ratio of 1.45, a current ratio of 1.45 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54. The stock has a market capitalization of $516.54 billion, a PE ratio of 32.37, a PEG ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 0.96. The companys 50 day moving average price is $278.54 and its 200 day moving average price is $258.27.

Visa (NYSE:V  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, January 25th. The credit-card processor reported $2.41 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.34 by $0.07. Visa had a net margin of 53.92% and a return on equity of 50.02%. The company had revenue of $8.63 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.55 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $2.18 EPS. The firms revenue was up 9.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts forecast that Visa Inc. will post 9.9 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Visa Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 9th were issued a dividend of $0.52 per share. This represents a $2.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.74%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 8th. Visas dividend payout ratio is currently 23.94%.

About Visa

(Free Report)

Visa Inc operates as a payment technology company in the United States and internationally. The company operates VisaNet, a transaction processing network that enables authorization, clearing, and settlement of payment transactions. It also offers credit, debit, and prepaid card products; tap to pay, tokenization, and click to pay services; Visa Direct, a solution that facilitates the delivery of funds to eligible cards, deposit accounts, and digital wallets; Visa B2B Connect, a multilateral business-to-business cross-border payments network; Visa Cross-Border Solution, a cross-border consumer payments solution; and Visa DPS that provides a range of value-added services, including fraud mitigation, dispute management, data analytics, campaign management, a suite of digital solutions, and contact center services.

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StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Textainer Group (NYSE:TGH  Free Report) in a research report released on Sunday morning. The brokerage issued a hold rating on the transportation companys stock.

Textainer Group Stock Performance

Shares of TGH stock opened at $49.99 on Friday. Textainer Group has a fifty-two week low of $30.22 and a fifty-two week high of $50.15. The stocks 50-day moving average is $49.83 and its two-hundred day moving average is $46.86. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.76, a current ratio of 1.16 and a quick ratio of 1.14. The firm has a market cap of $2.12 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.55 and a beta of 1.01.

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Textainer Group (NYSE:TGH  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 13th. The transportation company reported $1.13 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.05 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $190.10 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $195.71 million. Textainer Group had a return on equity of 12.86% and a net margin of 26.57%. The companys revenue was down 6.3% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts predict that Textainer Group will post 4.89 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Textainer Group Announces Dividend

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Textainer Group

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 15th. Investors of record on Friday, March 1st were issued a $0.30 dividend. This represents a $1.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.40%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 29th. Textainer Groups dividend payout ratio is presently 27.71%.

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its holdings in shares of Textainer Group by 99.0% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 73,072 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $2,782,000 after acquiring an additional 36,344 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates grew its holdings in Textainer Group by 20.5% during the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 38,979 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $1,484,000 after purchasing an additional 6,624 shares during the last quarter. AlphaCrest Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Textainer Group in the first quarter valued at approximately $371,000. LSV Asset Management lifted its stake in shares of Textainer Group by 13.8% in the first quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 87,400 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $3,327,000 after buying an additional 10,600 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Verition Fund Management LLC grew its stake in Textainer Group by 92.6% in the 1st quarter. Verition Fund Management LLC now owns 201,498 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $7,671,000 after buying an additional 96,866 shares during the last quarter. 44.28% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Textainer Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Textainer Group Holdings Limited, through its subsidiaries, engages in the purchase, ownership, management, leasing, and disposal of a fleet of intermodal containers worldwide. It operates through three segments: Container Ownership, Container Management, and Container Resale. The company's containers include standard and specialized dry freight, and refrigerated containers, as well as other special-purpose containers, which include tank, 45', pallet-wide, and other types of containers.

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Madison County Financial (OTCMKTS:MCBK  Get Free Report) and Equitable Financial (OTCMKTS:EQFN  Get Free Report) are both small-cap finance companies, but which is the superior business? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their dividends, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, risk, profitability, earnings and valuation.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

7.2% of Equitable Financial shares are owned by institutional investors. 16.9% of Madison County Financial shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 11.3% of Equitable Financial shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

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Volatility and Risk

Madison County Financial has a beta of 0.15, indicating that its stock price is 85% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Equitable Financial has a beta of 0.41, indicating that its stock price is 59% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Madison County Financial N/A N/A N/A Equitable Financial N/A 6.88% 0.64%

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Madison County Financial and Equitable Financials net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

This table compares Madison County Financial and Equitable Financials gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Madison County Financial $22.95 million 2.60 $7.70 million N/A N/A Equitable Financial $26.12 million 1.29 $3.59 million N/A N/A

Madison County Financial has higher earnings, but lower revenue than Equitable Financial.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for Madison County Financial and Equitable Financial, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Madison County Financial 0 0 0 0 N/A Equitable Financial 0 0 0 0 N/A

Summary

Equitable Financial beats Madison County Financial on 5 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Madison County Financial

(Get Free Report)

Madison County Financial, Inc. operates as the holding company for Madison County Bank that provides banking and financial services to individual and corporate customers in Nebraska, the United States. It offers deposits, such as checking, money market savings, savings, and individual retirement accounts, as well as certificates of deposit; credit and debit cards; home loans; and consumer loans, including home equity lines of credit, second mortgage, home improvement, recreational vehicle, personal, and overdraft protection loans, as well as loans for automobiles, trucks, and vans. The company also provides agricultural real estate, machinery and equipment, livestock and crop, and operating loans; and commercial real estate, construction, investment property, and working capital loans, as well as equipment financing services. In addition, it offers online and mobile banking, as well as merchant services. The company was formerly known as Madison County Holding Company and changed its name to Madison County Financial, Inc. in October 2012. Madison County Financial, Inc. was founded in 1888 and is headquartered in Madison, Nebraska.

About Equitable Financial

(Get Free Report)

Equitable Financial Corp. operates as the holding company for Equitable Bank that provides various banking products and services in Nebraska, the United States. The company offers checking and savings accounts; recorder checks; online and mobile banking; remote deposit capture; voice banking; credit card processing; debit and gift cards; and safe deposit boxes. It also provides home, home equity, auto, personal, real estate and construction, operating lines of credit, small business administration, and agricultural loans, as well as equipment financing. In addition, the company offers foreign currency and exchanges; financial planning; wealth management; investment advisory; and retirement services. It operates through branches located in Grand Island, North Platte, and Omaha. The company was founded in 1882 and is headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska.

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Shares of Valero Energy Co. (NYSE:VLO  Get Free Report) have been given a consensus rating of Moderate Buy by the thirteen research firms that are covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating, eight have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. The average 1-year price objective among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $165.69.

VLO has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Bank of America upgraded shares of Valero Energy from a neutral rating to a buy rating and raised their price target for the stock from $156.00 to $210.00 in a research note on Friday, March 15th. Citigroup initiated coverage on shares of Valero Energy in a research note on Wednesday, January 24th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Raymond James raised their price target on shares of Valero Energy from $154.00 to $155.00 and gave the company a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, January 26th. Mizuho lowered shares of Valero Energy from a buy rating to a neutral rating and raised their price target for the company from $150.00 to $173.00 in a report on Friday, March 22nd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company raised their price target on shares of Valero Energy from $138.00 to $171.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, March 20th.

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Check Out Our Latest Report on VLO

Valero Energy Stock Down 0.7 %

VLO stock opened at $167.25 on Wednesday. Valero Energy has a twelve month low of $104.18 and a twelve month high of $172.46. The company has a market cap of $55.61 billion, a PE ratio of 6.76, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.81 and a beta of 1.53. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $144.19 and its 200 day simple moving average is $135.35. The company has a quick ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35.

Valero Energy (NYSE:VLO  Get Free Report) last released 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 return on equity of 31.62% and a net margin of 6.10%. The business had revenue of $35.41 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $34.76 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $8.45 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 15.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts anticipate that Valero Energy will post 15.66 earnings per share for the current year.

Valero Energy Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, March 4th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, February 1st were issued a $1.07 dividend. This is a positive change from Valero Energys previous quarterly dividend of $1.02. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, January 31st. This represents a $4.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.56%. Valero Energys payout ratio is 17.31%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Valero Energy

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Blair William & Co. IL lifted its position in Valero Energy by 1.9% in the 1st quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 33,427 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $3,394,000 after acquiring an additional 632 shares in the last quarter. Sei Investments Co. lifted its position in Valero Energy by 21.7% in the 1st quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 100,006 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $10,163,000 after acquiring an additional 17,844 shares in the last quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board lifted its position in Valero Energy by 12.5% in the 1st quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 60,730 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $6,167,000 after acquiring an additional 6,735 shares in the last quarter. Prudential PLC bought a new stake in Valero Energy in the 1st quarter valued at $1,253,000. Finally, Moors & Cabot Inc. lifted its position in Valero Energy by 21.0% in the 1st quarter. Moors & Cabot Inc. now owns 6,780 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $688,000 after acquiring an additional 1,179 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.69% of the companys stock.

Valero Energy Company Profile

(Get Free Report

Valero Energy Corporation manufactures, markets, and sells petroleum-based and low-carbon liquid transportation fuels and petrochemical products in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Latin America, Mexico, Peru, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Refining, Renewable Diesel, and Ethanol.

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Shares of KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE:KKR  Get Free Report) have earned a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from the fourteen ratings firms that are currently covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold recommendation and thirteen have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 1 year price objective among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $82.60.

A number of equities analysts recently commented on KKR shares. JMP Securities increased their price target on KKR & Co. Inc. from $92.00 to $108.00 and gave the company a market outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Morgan Stanley increased their price target on KKR & Co. Inc. from $75.00 to $82.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 24th. Oppenheimer raised their price objective on KKR & Co. Inc. from $91.00 to $94.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, November 30th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on KKR & Co. Inc. from $93.00 to $103.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their price objective on KKR & Co. Inc. from $75.00 to $90.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, December 4th.

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Get Our Latest Report on KKR

KKR & Co. Inc. Stock Performance

NYSE:KKR opened at $101.07 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.11, a quick ratio of 0.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.82. KKR & Co. Inc. has a 12-month low of $47.79 and a 12-month high of $103.48. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $93.43 and a 200 day moving average price of $77.41. The stock has a market capitalization of $89.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.77, a P/E/G ratio of 0.87 and a beta of 1.62.

KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE:KKR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The asset manager reported $0.84 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.81 by $0.03. KKR & Co. Inc. had a return on equity of 4.21% and a net margin of 25.74%. The company had revenue of $1.07 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $995.64 million. Equities research analysts forecast that KKR & Co. Inc. will post 4.63 EPS for the current fiscal year.

KKR & Co. Inc. Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 16th were issued a $0.165 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 15th. This represents a $0.66 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.65%. KKR & Co. Inc.s dividend payout ratio is presently 16.18%.

Insider Transactions at KKR & Co. Inc.

In other news, major shareholder Kkr Group Partnership L.P. sold 13,800,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, March 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $9.87, for a total value of $136,206,000.00. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, major shareholder Kkr Alternative Assets Llc purchased 286,402 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 13th. The stock was bought at an average price of $24.94 per share, with a total value of $7,142,865.88. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 429,259 shares in the company, valued at approximately $10,705,719.46. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, major shareholder Kkr Group Partnership L.P. sold 13,800,000 shares of KKR & Co. Inc. stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $9.87, for a total value of $136,206,000.00. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 39.34% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of KKR & Co. Inc.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in KKR. Blue Trust Inc. lifted its position in KKR & Co. Inc. by 197.2% during the 4th quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 318 shares of the asset managers stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 211 shares during the period. Quarry LP lifted its position in KKR & Co. Inc. by 95.3% during the 2nd quarter. Quarry LP now owns 459 shares of the asset managers stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 224 shares during the period. Turtle Creek Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in KKR & Co. Inc. during the 4th quarter worth about $30,000. Missouri Trust & Investment Co lifted its holdings in shares of KKR & Co. Inc. by 408.9% in the 4th quarter. Missouri Trust & Investment Co now owns 458 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $38,000 after buying an additional 368 shares during the period. Finally, First United Bank & Trust acquired a new position in shares of KKR & Co. Inc. in the 4th quarter valued at about $41,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 76.26% of the companys stock.

KKR & Co. Inc. Company Profile

(Get Free Report

KKR & Co Inc is a private equity and real estate investment firm specializing in direct and fund of fund investments. It specializes in acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, management buyouts, credit special situations, growth equity, mature, mezzanine, distressed, turnaround, lower middle market and middle market investments.

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Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. (NYSE:TV  Get Free Report) has been given an average rating of Moderate Buy by the six ratings firms that are covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and three have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average twelve-month price objective among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $5.52.

Several equities research analysts have recently issued reports on TV shares. Morgan Stanley restated an equal weight rating and set a $4.00 price target (down previously from $7.00) on shares of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. in a research note on Friday, January 5th. StockNews.com raised Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, February 26th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their price objective on Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. from $3.90 to $3.50 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, December 13th.

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Institutional Trading of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B.

Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. Price Performance

A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. by 824.4% during the 4th quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 14,938 shares of the companys stock valued at $50,000 after buying an additional 13,322 shares in the last quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund lifted its stake in shares of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. by 162.4% during the 4th quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund now owns 3,093,800 shares of the companys stock valued at $10,333,000 after buying an additional 1,914,800 shares in the last quarter. Coastal Bridge Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. by 21.8% in the 4th quarter. Coastal Bridge Advisors LLC now owns 57,372 shares of the companys stock worth $192,000 after purchasing an additional 10,267 shares in the last quarter. Wolverine Trading LLC purchased a new stake in Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. in the 4th quarter worth approximately $53,000. Finally, Freedom Investment Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. in the 4th quarter worth approximately $37,000. 55.77% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

TV opened at $3.09 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64, a current ratio of 1.76 and a quick ratio of 1.73. The company has a market capitalization of $1.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -2.94 and a beta of 1.76. The firms fifty day moving average price is $3.04 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $2.97. Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. has a 1 year low of $2.10 and a 1 year high of $5.66.

Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. (NYSE:TV  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 22nd. The company reported ($0.88) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.01) by ($0.87). Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. had a negative return on equity of 7.36% and a negative net margin of 13.99%. The firm had revenue of $1.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.04 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned ($1.27) earnings per share. As a group, analysts anticipate that Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. will post 0.1 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Grupo Televisa, S.A.B.

(Get Free Report

Grupo Televisa, SAB. operates as a media company in the Spanish-speaking Mexico and internationally. It operates through three segments: Cable, Sky, and Other Businesses. The Cable segment operates cable multiple system that provides basic and premium television subscription, pay-per-view, installation, Internet subscription, and telephone and mobile services subscription services, as well as sales local and national advertising services; and telecommunication facilities, which offers data and long-distance services solutions to carriers and other telecommunications service providers through its fiber-optic network.

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Fatime Letifova

The EU-Armenia-US joint conference is clearly one-sided, biassed, and based on a double standard approach, Azernews reports, citing the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan.

Aykhan Hajizada, MFA Spokesperson, stated that the mentioned conference is not held in a completely transparent manner, lacks regional inclusiveness, and is contrary to the much-needed confidence building and integration promoted in the region.

"Instead of encouraging the Armenian side to negotiate in good faith, this conference creates new dividing lines and narrow spheres of influence in the region," the ministry said.

It was noted that against the background of the revanchist mood in Armenia, such an open pro-Armenian public manifestation by Washington and Brussels may create a dangerous illusion in Armenia that the EU and the US will support it in possible provocations by Armenia against Azerbaijan.

"In that case, the EU and the US would be accountable for any potential destabilising activities by Armenia. As we face a unique opportunity to establish lasting peace, stability, and security based on the fundamental norms and principles of international law, we reiterate our condemnation of any entities that hinder the peace process. Furthermore, we urge all to avoid actions that might trigger a resurgence of escalation and tension in the area," the ministry said.
Miss H'Hen Nie and participants join the project (Photo: Gaia)

On this occasion, H'Hen Nie contributed 1,000 trees to Ben En forest from the salary for her first singing performance.

For three consecutive years from 2022 to 2024, every March 21, Miss H'Hen Nie happily goes back to the forest with Gaia to plant trees. On this occasion, she got to admire Vietnam's thousand-year-old heritage trees, revisit the trees she planted 2 years ago and plant new trees.

"Hen's success today comes from the recognition and love of the community. Therefore, Hen always wants to share the luck he has with everyone, from profits from creating content on social networks to money from his first singing career," Miss H'Hen Nie shared.

She believed that in the future, the trees she planted with Gaia and her friends will grow into forests with many large, ancient trees. This place will quietly create positive values for life such as providing oxygen, clean water, and creating a clean and peaceful ecosystem.

In 2023, on the occasion of the 5th anniversary of her coronation, she accompanied Gaia to restore 5 hectares of Lim forest, equivalent to 5,070 trees. In 2024, she will continue to contribute another 1,000 trees.

Thanks to her connection, more corporate and individual sponsors are contributing to Gaia. She also contributed the most trees to the program "Contributing trees to bring the ironwood forest back to life" to help complete the goal of restoring 40 hectares of forest here.

According to the report of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, a total of 13.7 billion tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions have been absorbed by forests through innovative and transparent forest monitoring. This is Gaia's reason for implementing forest planting, care and monitoring programs with transparent public reporting. At the same time, implementing nature experience itineraries helps develop sustainable forest tourism resources. Thereby, contributing to responding to climate change and realizing the Prime Minister's commitment at the COP26 conference to achieve net emissions by 2050," Ms. Do Thi Thanh Huyen, Founder & Director of Gaia Nature Conservation Center shared.

In March 2023, the month of action for forests, Gaia deployed more than 25,000 large trees in three watershed forests in the northern region, six afforestation trips and nature experiences. The program has received a strong response from the community and 11 businesses and especially Miss H'Hen Nie.

At the same time, Gaia also organizes programs to help raise awareness, promote a green, sustainable lifestyle and empower action for the environment such as Cleaning the house, Donating trees and Donating books, Planting forests. These are Gaia's dedicated efforts to connect and mobilize community resources to respond to climate change and stop biodiversity degradation.

In the near future, Gaia will continue to promote activities of planting and restoring watershed forests throughout Vietnam such as: Xuan Lien Nature Reserve, Ca Mau Cape National Park, Nature and Cultural Reserve Dong Nai and so on, directly contributing to the restoration of natural resources, improving forest ecological functions in response to climate change, aiming for zero net emissions and preserving rare wild species.

Gaia hopes that, in the coming time, there will be more businesses and individuals accompanying Gaia on the path to restoring and creating green forests. All for a greener, healthier and more sustainable Vietnam!

International Day of Forests (March 21) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly to honor and raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests. Countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organize activities related to forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns. Therefore, March 21 is also World Tree Planting Day./.
Analysts at Barclays started coverage on shares of Vornado Realty Trust (NYSE:VNO  Get Free Report) in a research note issued to investors on Wednesday, Briefing.com reports. The brokerage set an underweight rating and a $22.00 price target on the real estate investment trusts stock. Barclayss target price indicates a potential downside of 16.76% from the stocks current price.

A number of other brokerages have also commented on VNO. BMO Capital Markets upgraded shares of Vornado Realty Trust from an underperform rating to a market perform rating and lifted their price target for the stock from $25.00 to $31.00 in a research note on Friday, December 15th. The Goldman Sachs Group lowered their price objective on shares of Vornado Realty Trust from $24.00 to $21.00 and set a sell rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, February 22nd. Piper Sandler raised their price target on Vornado Realty Trust from $16.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 20th. Evercore ISI reduced their price objective on Vornado Realty Trust from $28.00 to $26.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, February 15th. Finally, Truist Financial increased their target price on Vornado Realty Trust from $27.00 to $30.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, December 20th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and five have given a hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Vornado Realty Trust currently has an average rating of Reduce and an average target price of $23.50.

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Vornado Realty Trust Trading Down 3.3 %

Shares of NYSE VNO opened at $26.43 on Wednesday. The firms 50 day moving average price is $26.42 and its 200-day moving average price is $25.06. Vornado Realty Trust has a 52-week low of $12.31 and a 52-week high of $32.21. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.82, a quick ratio of 4.95 and a current ratio of 4.95. The company has a market cap of $5.03 billion, a PE ratio of 114.91 and a beta of 1.56.

Vornado Realty Trust (NYSE:VNO  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 12th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.04 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.59 by ($0.55). Vornado Realty Trust had a net margin of 5.82% and a return on equity of 3.22%. The business had revenue of $441.89 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $453.82 million. During the same period last year, the company posted $0.72 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was down 1.1% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts expect that Vornado Realty Trust will post 2.31 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Trading of Vornado Realty Trust

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in VNO. Contravisory Investment Management Inc. purchased a new position in Vornado Realty Trust during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $26,000. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Vornado Realty Trust by 8,355.6% in the 3rd quarter. Financial Gravity Asset Management Inc. now owns 1,522 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $35,000 after purchasing an additional 1,504 shares during the period. Global Retirement Partners LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Vornado Realty Trust by 49.8% in the 3rd quarter. Global Retirement Partners LLC now owns 1,672 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 556 shares during the period. Turtle Creek Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Vornado Realty Trust in the 4th quarter worth approximately $40,000. Finally, Selway Asset Management purchased a new position in shares of Vornado Realty Trust in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $45,000. Institutional investors own 90.02% of the companys stock.

Vornado Realty Trust Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Vornado is a fully integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) with a portfolio of premier New York City office and retail assets and the developer of the new PENN DISTRICT. While concentrated in New York, Vornado also owns the premier assets in both Chicago and San Francisco. Vornado is a real estate industry leader in sustainability, with over 27 million square feet of LEED-certified buildings and over 23 million square feet at LEED Gold or Platinum.

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Alhambra Investment Management LLC reduced its position in Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE:YUM  Free Report) by 3.7% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 4,889 shares of the restaurant operators stock after selling 187 shares during the quarter. Alhambra Investment Management LLCs holdings in Yum! Brands were worth $639,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. BlackRock Inc. raised its stake in Yum! Brands by 16.8% in the second quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 24,692,484 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $3,421,144,000 after buying an additional 3,549,709 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp boosted its stake in Yum! Brands by 4.6% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 11,490,727 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $1,592,040,000 after purchasing an additional 507,054 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its stake in Yum! Brands by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 5,947,399 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $784,673,000 after purchasing an additional 90,152 shares in the last quarter. Sustainable Growth Advisers LP raised its holdings in shares of Yum! Brands by 3.8% in the third quarter. Sustainable Growth Advisers LP now owns 5,766,650 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $720,485,000 after buying an additional 210,238 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Capital World Investors lifted its stake in shares of Yum! Brands by 19.6% during the first quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 5,507,237 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $652,773,000 after buying an additional 901,181 shares during the period. 82.37% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts have recently issued reports on YUM shares. Stifel Nicolaus restated a hold rating and issued a $135.00 price objective on shares of Yum! Brands in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. Wells Fargo & Company downgraded Yum! Brands from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating and decreased their price target for the company from $150.00 to $135.00 in a report on Thursday, January 11th. TD Cowen raised their price objective on shares of Yum! Brands from $144.00 to $160.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, March 7th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their target price on shares of Yum! Brands from $133.00 to $134.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, March 19th. Finally, Citigroup increased their price target on shares of Yum! Brands from $164.00 to $166.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, February 8th. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with 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 Hold and an average target price of $145.00.

Insider Activity at Yum! Brands

In other news, VP David Eric Russell sold 9,919 shares of Yum! Brands stock in a transaction on Friday, February 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.63, for a total value of $1,285,799.97. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 18,661 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,419,025.43. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In other news, VP David Eric Russell sold 9,919 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.63, for a total value of $1,285,799.97. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 18,661 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,419,025.43. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO David W. Gibbs sold 7,067 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, March 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $136.34, for a total transaction of $963,514.78. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 175,377 shares of the companys stock, valued at $23,910,900.18. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 20,742 shares of company stock valued at $2,734,628 over the last quarter. Insiders own 0.31% of the companys stock.

Yum! Brands Trading Up 0.1 %

Shares of NYSE YUM opened at $134.79 on Wednesday. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $134.20 and a 200-day simple moving average of $128.68. The stock has a market capitalization of $37.92 billion, a PE ratio of 24.11, a PEG ratio of 2.13 and a beta of 1.10. Yum! Brands, Inc. has a twelve month low of $115.53 and a twelve month high of $143.24.

Yum! Brands (NYSE:YUM  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, February 7th. The restaurant operator reported $1.26 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.39 by ($0.13). The business had revenue of $2.04 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.11 billion. Yum! Brands had a negative return on equity of 17.76% and a net margin of 22.57%. Yum! Brandss quarterly revenue was up .8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.31 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that Yum! Brands, Inc. will post 5.72 earnings per share for the current year.

Yum! Brands Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 8th. Investors of record on Wednesday, February 21st were paid a $0.67 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, February 20th. This represents a $2.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.99%. This is a positive change from Yum! Brandss previous quarterly dividend of $0.61. Yum! Brandss dividend payout ratio is presently 47.94%.

About Yum! Brands

(Free Report)

Yum! Brands, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, develops, operates, and franchises quick service restaurants worldwide. The company operates through the KFC Division, the Taco Bell Division, the Pizza Hut Division, and the Habit Burger Grill Division segments. It also operates restaurants under the KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and The Habit Burger Grill brands, which specialize in chicken, pizza, made-to-order chargrilled burgers, sandwiches, Mexican-style food categories, and other food products.

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Tectonic Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE:PB  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm purchased 5,513 shares of the banks stock, valued at approximately $373,000.

Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in PB. Covestor Ltd raised its holdings in Prosperity Bancshares by 83.6% during the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 692 shares of the banks stock worth $48,000 after purchasing an additional 315 shares during the last quarter. State of Wyoming increased 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 in the last quarter. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC increased its stake in shares of Prosperity Bancshares by 73.2% in the 4th quarter. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 710 shares of the banks stock valued at $52,000 after acquiring an additional 300 shares in the last quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Prosperity Bancshares in the 1st quarter valued at $56,000. Finally, Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. increased its stake in shares of Prosperity Bancshares by 357.4% in the 2nd quarter. Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. now owns 1,180 shares of the banks stock valued at $67,000 after acquiring an additional 922 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 80.69% of the companys stock.

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Prosperity Bancshares Price Performance

NYSE PB opened at $62.78 on Wednesday. Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. has a 1 year low of $49.60 and a 1 year high of $68.88. The firm has a market cap of $5.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.86, a PEG ratio of 1.24 and a beta of 0.93. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $63.28 and a 200-day moving average price of $60.50.

Prosperity Bancshares Announces Dividend

Prosperity Bancshares ( NYSE:PB Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, January 24th. The bank reported $1.19 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.15 by $0.04. Prosperity Bancshares had a net margin of 26.24% and a return on equity of 6.62%. The firm had revenue of $413.00 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $279.34 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.51 EPS. On average, research analysts anticipate that Prosperity Bancshares, Inc. will post 5.06 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared 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. This represents a $2.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.57%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 14th. Prosperity Bancsharess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 49.45%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms have recently weighed in on PB. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating and issued a $70.00 price objective on shares of Prosperity Bancshares in a research note on Thursday, January 25th. Barclays began coverage on shares of Prosperity Bancshares in a research note on Friday, March 8th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $68.00 price objective for the company. Morgan Stanley upgraded shares of Prosperity Bancshares from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and set a $69.00 price objective for the company in a research note on Wednesday, February 7th. Truist Financial boosted their price target on shares of Prosperity Bancshares from $61.00 to $75.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, December 15th. Finally, Raymond James boosted their price target on shares of Prosperity Bancshares from $65.00 to $80.00 and gave the company a strong-buy rating in a research note on Friday, January 5th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating, five have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $68.79.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on PB

Prosperity Bancshares Company 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; term loans and lines of credit; and consumer durables and home equity loans, as well as loans for working capital, business expansion, and purchase of equipment and machinery.

Further Reading

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).

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Bar Harbor Wealth Management lessened its position in Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA  Free Report) by 2.1% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 18,531 shares of the credit services providers stock after selling 396 shares during the quarter. Bar Harbor Wealth Managements holdings in Mastercard were worth $7,904,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. State Street Corp increased its stake in Mastercard by 1.4% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 35,255,582 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $13,866,020,000 after buying an additional 495,768 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley boosted its stake in Mastercard by 17.7% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 15,843,692 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $5,509,328,000 after purchasing an additional 2,385,640 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Mastercard in the 4th quarter worth approximately $3,308,223,000. Northern Trust Corp lifted its stake in Mastercard by 2.9% during the 3rd quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 9,075,358 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $3,593,025,000 after acquiring an additional 251,516 shares during the period. Finally, Nuveen Asset Management LLC lifted its stake in Mastercard by 3.9% during the 2nd quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 8,420,213 shares of the credit services providers stock valued at $3,311,670,000 after acquiring an additional 318,077 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 97.28% of the companys stock.

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Mastercard Trading Up 0.2 %

NYSE MA opened at $476.80 on Wednesday. Mastercard Incorporated has a 12 month low of $352.80 and a 12 month high of $490.00. The company has a 50-day moving average of $462.19 and a 200-day moving average of $425.66. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.06, a current ratio of 1.17 and a quick ratio of 1.17. The company has a market cap of $444.80 billion, a P/E ratio of 40.30, a P/E/G ratio of 1.81 and a beta of 1.08.

Mastercard ( NYSE:MA Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, January 31st. The credit services provider reported $3.18 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.08 by $0.10. The company had revenue of $6.55 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.46 billion. Mastercard had a return on equity of 191.22% and a net margin of 44.60%. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $2.65 EPS. As a group, equities analysts predict that Mastercard Incorporated will post 14.36 earnings per share for the current year.

Mastercard declared that its Board of Directors has authorized a stock buyback plan on Tuesday, December 5th that permits the company to buyback $11.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization permits the credit services provider to reacquire up to 2.9% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback plans are typically a sign that the companys leadership believes its stock is undervalued.

Mastercard Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, May 9th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, April 9th will be paid a dividend of $0.66 per share. This represents a $2.64 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.55%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, April 8th. Mastercards dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 22.32%.

Insider Activity

In related news, major shareholder Foundation Mastercard sold 200 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $487.25, for a total transaction of $97,450.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 97,543,308 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $47,527,976,823. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other Mastercard news, major shareholder Foundation Mastercard sold 200 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $487.25, for a total value of $97,450.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 97,543,308 shares of the companys stock, valued at $47,527,976,823. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, insider Craig Vosburg sold 8,900 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, January 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $430.26, for a total value of $3,829,314.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 46,491 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $20,003,217.66. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders sold 50,628 shares of company stock worth $23,309,067. 0.13% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities analysts have recently weighed in on MA shares. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their target price on shares of Mastercard from $433.00 to $482.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, January 11th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their target price on shares of Mastercard from $432.00 to $499.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, February 1st. KeyCorp lifted their target price on shares of Mastercard from $475.00 to $490.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, February 1st. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their target price on shares of Mastercard from $490.00 to $530.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, March 6th. Finally, Oppenheimer reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $510.00 target price on shares of Mastercard in a report on Thursday, February 1st. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-one have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $479.62.

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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. The company offers integrated products and value-added services for account holders, merchants, financial institutions, digital partners, businesses, governments, and other organizations, such as programs that enable issuers to provide consumers with credits to defer payments; payment products and solutions that allow its customers to access funds in deposit and other accounts; prepaid programs services; and commercial credit, debit, and prepaid payment products and solutions.

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PFG Investments LLC lessened its holdings in shares of Portland General Electric (NYSE:POR  Free Report) by 5.4% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 17,198 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 976 shares during the quarter. PFG Investments LLCs holdings in Portland General Electric were worth $745,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in POR. Comerica Bank raised its stake in shares of Portland General Electric by 309.9% in the 3rd quarter. Comerica Bank now owns 174,052 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $7,046,000 after purchasing an additional 131,589 shares during the period. Scharf Investments LLC bought a new position in shares of Portland General Electric in the 4th quarter valued at about $3,037,000. Versor Investments LP grew its holdings in Portland General Electric by 55.2% during the third quarter. Versor Investments LP now owns 13,806 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $559,000 after purchasing an additional 4,911 shares during the period. Legal & General Group Plc boosted its holdings in shares of Portland General Electric by 2.3% during the third quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 624,905 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $25,296,000 after acquiring an additional 13,952 shares during the period. Finally, Hsbc Holdings PLC boosted its holdings in shares of Portland General Electric by 92.2% during the third quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 135,507 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $5,476,000 after acquiring an additional 64,987 shares during the period.

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Portland General Electric Trading Up 1.7 %

POR traded up $0.70 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $41.20. 46,948 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 969,130. The company has a quick ratio of 0.74, a current ratio of 0.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.26. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.17 billion, a PE ratio of 17.38, a P/E/G ratio of 2.59 and a beta of 0.57. The stocks 50-day moving average is $40.72 and its 200 day moving average is $41.55. Portland General Electric has a 12 month low of $38.01 and a 12 month high of $51.58.

Portland General Electric Announces Dividend

Portland General Electric ( NYSE:POR Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 16th. The utilities provider reported $0.68 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.88 by ($0.20). The firm had revenue of $725.00 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $740.21 million. Portland General Electric had a net margin of 7.80% and a return on equity of 7.21%. The businesss revenue was up 5.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company posted $0.70 EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that Portland General Electric will post 3.06 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, April 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 22nd will be paid a $0.475 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, March 21st. This represents a $1.90 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.61%. Portland General Electrics dividend payout ratio is presently 81.55%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

POR has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. UBS Group upgraded Portland General Electric from a neutral rating to a buy rating and reduced their price objective for the stock from $47.00 to $45.00 in a report on Monday, January 29th. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Portland General Electric from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 27th. Mizuho restated a neutral rating and set a $42.00 price objective (down from $43.00) on shares of Portland General Electric in a research report on Tuesday, February 20th. Bank of America downgraded shares of Portland General Electric from a buy rating to a neutral rating and lowered their price objective for the company from $55.00 to $43.00 in a research report on Monday, February 5th. Finally, Barclays lowered their price target on shares of Portland General Electric from $45.00 to $42.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, February 21st. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Portland General Electric presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $45.13.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on Portland General Electric

Portland General Electric Company 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, 2023, the company owned an electric transmission system consisting of 1,254 circuit miles, including 287 circuit miles of 500 kilovolt line, 413 circuit miles of 230 kilovolt line, and 554 miles of 115 kilovolt line; and served 934 thousand retail customers in 51 cities.

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Centennial Wealth Advisory LLC reduced its position in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:AGG  Free Report) by 7.5% during the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 4,030 shares of the companys stock after selling 326 shares during the quarter. Centennial Wealth Advisory LLCs holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF were worth $400,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of AGG. Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management lifted its holdings in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 145.5% during the 1st quarter. Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management now owns 6,590 shares of the companys stock worth $705,000 after acquiring an additional 3,906 shares during the period. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 36.2% in the first quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 52,003 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,570,000 after buying an additional 13,829 shares during the period. Worth Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF in the first quarter valued at approximately $44,000. Baltimore Washington Financial Advisors Inc. purchased a new position in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF in the first quarter valued at approximately $241,000. Finally, West Michigan Advisors LLC raised its holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 2.0% in the first quarter. West Michigan Advisors LLC now owns 14,640 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,568,000 after buying an additional 292 shares during the period. 83.63% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Stock Performance

NYSEARCA AGG opened at $97.74 on Wednesday. iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF has a one year low of $91.58 and a one year high of $100.98. The companys 50 day moving average price is $97.71 and its 200 day moving average price is $96.35.

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Company Profile

IShares are index funds that are bought and sold like common stocks on national securities exchanges as well as certain foreign exchanges. iShares are attractive because of their relatively low cost, tax efficiency and trading flexibility. Investors can purchase and sell shares through any brokerage firm, financial advisor, or online broker, and hold the funds in any type of brokerage account.

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PFG Investments LLC raised its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 19.5% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 16,143 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after buying an additional 2,638 shares during the period. PFG Investments LLCs holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $828,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Dakota Wealth Management acquired a new stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb in the first quarter valued at $332,000. Covestor Ltd boosted its holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 111.5% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 2,052 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $150,000 after purchasing an additional 1,082 shares in the last quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC increased its position in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 53.2% during the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 165,336 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $12,075,000 after purchasing an additional 57,444 shares during the period. Ergoteles LLC acquired a new position in Bristol-Myers Squibb during the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,997,000. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp increased its position in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 25.1% during the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 338,563 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $24,725,000 after purchasing an additional 68,018 shares during the period. 76.41% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Bristol-Myers Squibb Trading Up 1.2 %

Shares of BMY stock traded up $0.65 on Wednesday, reaching $53.20. 1,874,563 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 16,721,160. The stock has a market cap of $107.82 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.61, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.58 and a beta of 0.38. The company has a quick ratio of 1.31, a current ratio of 1.43 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.24. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $50.68 and a two-hundred day moving average of $52.49. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a 1-year low of $47.58 and a 1-year high of $71.07.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Announces Dividend

Bristol-Myers Squibb ( NYSE:BMY Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 2nd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.70 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.55 by $0.15. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 50.95% and a net margin of 17.83%. The firm had revenue of $11.48 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.19 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.82 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up .6% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts anticipate that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 6.61 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 5th will be paid a dividend of $0.60 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, April 4th. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.51%. Bristol-Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is presently 62.18%.

Bristol-Myers Squibb announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a stock repurchase plan on Thursday, December 7th that allows the company to buyback $3.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization allows the biopharmaceutical company to purchase up to 2.9% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback plans are typically a sign that the companys board of directors believes its shares are undervalued.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on BMY shares. Bank of America cut Bristol-Myers Squibb from a buy rating to a neutral rating and lowered their price target for the stock from $68.00 to $60.00 in a report on Wednesday, January 3rd. StockNews.com upgraded Bristol-Myers Squibb from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, March 1st. Redburn Atlantic lowered Bristol-Myers Squibb from a buy rating to a neutral rating and reduced their target price for the company from $77.00 to $54.00 in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their target price on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $58.00 to $51.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. Finally, Societe Generale lowered Bristol-Myers Squibb from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, March 11th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fifteen have given a hold rating, three have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $61.12.

Read Our Latest Report on BMY

About Bristol-Myers Squibb

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

Further Reading

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PFG Investments LLC lifted its position in Annaly Capital Management, Inc. (NYSE:NLY  Free Report) by 69.1% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 36,042 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 14,728 shares during the quarter. PFG Investments LLCs holdings in Annaly Capital Management were worth $698,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Bank of Montreal Can lifted its holdings in Annaly Capital Management by 24.0% during the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 381,525 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,828,000 after buying an additional 73,892 shares in the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in Annaly Capital Management during the 1st quarter valued at about $199,000. Rhumbline Advisers lifted its holdings in Annaly Capital Management by 3.3% during the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 1,185,123 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $8,343,000 after buying an additional 37,762 shares in the last quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Annaly Capital Management by 6.6% during the 1st quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 97,368 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $685,000 after buying an additional 6,043 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cibc World Market Inc. bought a new stake in Annaly Capital Management during the 1st quarter valued at about $163,000. Institutional investors own 51.56% of the companys stock.

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Annaly Capital Management Stock Performance

Shares of NLY stock traded up $0.09 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $19.17. The companys stock had a trading volume of 845,802 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,696,363. The company has a 50 day moving average of $19.25 and a 200 day moving average of $18.70. The company has a quick ratio of 1.22, a current ratio of 1.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.40. Annaly Capital Management, Inc. has a 12-month low of $14.52 and a 12-month high of $21.07.

Annaly Capital Management Announces Dividend

Analysts Set New Price Targets

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, April 30th. Investors of record on Thursday, March 28th will be paid a $0.65 dividend. This represents a $2.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 13.56%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, March 27th. Annaly Capital Managements dividend payout ratio is currently -72.02%.

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on NLY shares. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Annaly Capital Management from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, January 27th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and set a $21.00 price objective on shares of Annaly Capital Management in a report on Monday, February 12th. UBS Group restated a neutral rating and issued a $19.00 price target on shares of Annaly Capital Management in a report on Wednesday, December 6th. Jonestrading boosted their price target on shares of Annaly Capital Management from $18.00 to $21.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, February 8th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods boosted their price target on shares of Annaly Capital Management from $17.00 to $21.50 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, December 13th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Annaly Capital Management has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $21.07.

Read Our Latest Analysis on NLY

Insider Activity at Annaly Capital Management

In related news, CEO David L. Finkelstein sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, February 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $19.03, for a total value of $951,500.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 662,469 shares in the company, valued at approximately $12,606,785.07. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.26% of the companys stock.

Annaly Capital Management Profile

(Free Report)

Annaly Capital Management, Inc, a diversified capital manager, engages in mortgage finance. The company invests in agency mortgage-backed securities collateralized by residential mortgages; non-agency residential whole loans and securitized products within the residential and commercial markets; mortgage servicing rights; agency commercial mortgage-backed securities; to-be-announced forward contracts; residential mortgage loans; and agency or private label credit risk transfer securities.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NLY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Annaly Capital Management, Inc. (NYSE:NLY  Free Report).

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BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust (NYSE:ECAT  Get Free Report) major shareholder Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 40,881 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, March 25th. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $17.09 per share, for a total transaction of $698,656.29. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider now owns 28,084,397 shares in the company, valued at $479,962,344.73. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Major shareholders that own 10% or more of a companys shares are required to disclose their transactions with the SEC.

Saba Capital Management, L.P. also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Friday, March 22nd, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 35,187 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $17.02 per share, for a total transaction of $598,882.74.

On Wednesday, March 20th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 107,194 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $16.86 per share, for a total transaction of $1,807,290.84.

On Monday, March 18th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. purchased 77,855 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The shares were bought at an average cost of $16.68 per share, for a total transaction of $1,298,621.40.

On Monday, March 11th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. purchased 73,028 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The shares were bought at an average cost of $17.05 per share, for a total transaction of $1,245,127.40.

On Thursday, March 7th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. purchased 36,450 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The shares were bought at an average cost of $17.08 per share, for a total transaction of $622,566.00.

On Thursday, February 29th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 49,946 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $17.13 per share, for a total transaction of $855,574.98.

On Monday, February 26th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 246,840 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $17.08 per share, for a total transaction of $4,216,027.20.

On Thursday, February 22nd, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 43,233 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $16.96 per share, for a total transaction of $733,231.68.

On Tuesday, February 20th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 91,079 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $16.66 per share, for a total transaction of $1,517,376.14.

On Friday, February 16th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 25,699 shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust stock. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $16.70 per share, for a total transaction of $429,173.30.

BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust Stock Up 0.6 %

Shares of NYSE ECAT traded up $0.10 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $17.22. The stock had a trading volume of 153,286 shares, compared to its average volume of 258,885. BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust has a twelve month low of $14.02 and a twelve month high of $17.30. The companys 50 day moving average price is $16.80 and its 200 day moving average price is $15.85.

BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust Dividend Announcement

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

The company also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 28th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 15th will be given a $0.15 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 14th. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 10.45%.

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Quadrature Capital Ltd acquired a new position in shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust in the 4th quarter worth approximately $271,000. Virtu Financial LLC acquired a new position in shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust in the 4th quarter worth approximately $372,000. Royal Bank of Canada lifted its position in shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust by 74.2% in the 4th quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 759,663 shares of the companys stock worth $12,253,000 after purchasing an additional 323,485 shares during the period. Pathstone Holdings LLC acquired a new position in shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust during the 4th quarter valued at $18,968,000. Finally, Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. lifted its position in shares of BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust by 239.5% during the 4th quarter. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. now owns 77,335 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,247,000 after acquiring an additional 54,553 shares during the period.

About BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Term Trust

(Get Free Report)

BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trusts (ECAT) (the Trust) investment objectives are to provide total return and income through a combination of current income, current gains and long-term capital appreciation. The Trust invests in a portfolio of equity and debt securities. Generally, the Trusts portfolio will include both equity and debt securities.

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Planned Solutions Inc. purchased a new stake in Duke Energy Co. (NYSE:DUK  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor purchased 1,340 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $130,000.

Several other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Sugarloaf Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Duke Energy by 13.9% during the 4th quarter. Sugarloaf Wealth Management LLC now owns 2,826 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $274,000 after acquiring an additional 344 shares in the last quarter. Catalyst Financial Partners LLC grew its holdings in shares of Duke Energy by 28.6% during the 3rd quarter. Catalyst Financial Partners LLC now owns 4,023 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $355,000 after acquiring an additional 894 shares in the last quarter. Dynamic Advisor Solutions LLC grew its holdings in shares of Duke Energy by 4.5% during the 4th quarter. Dynamic Advisor Solutions LLC now owns 25,824 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $2,545,000 after acquiring an additional 1,122 shares in the last quarter. Adviser Investments LLC bought a new stake in Duke Energy in the third quarter worth $304,000. Finally, Northern Trust Corp boosted its holdings in Duke Energy by 1.9% in the third quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 7,918,910 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $698,923,000 after purchasing an additional 144,612 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 65.31% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. BMO Capital Markets decreased their price objective on shares of Duke Energy from $101.00 to $100.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Monday, February 12th. KeyCorp boosted their target price on shares of Duke Energy from $106.00 to $107.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, January 4th. 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. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their target price on shares of Duke Energy from $98.00 to $101.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 29th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada raised shares of Duke Energy from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and upped their price objective for the company from $101.00 to $113.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 10th. Six 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 an average target price of $100.00.

Insider Activity

In other 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 value of $277,710.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly 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 SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Insiders own 0.11% of the companys stock.

Duke Energy Stock Performance

Shares of DUK stock traded up $1.56 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $95.23. 856,051 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,119,470. Duke Energy Co. has a 52 week low of $83.06 and a 52 week high of $100.39. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50, a quick ratio of 0.49 and a current ratio of 0.74. The firms 50 day moving average price is $94.11 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $92.86. The firm has a market capitalization of $73.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.39, a PEG ratio of 3.01 and a beta of 0.46.

Duke Energy (NYSE:DUK  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data 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 company had revenue of $7.21 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $7.24 billion. Duke Energy had a return on equity of 8.93% and a net margin of 9.78%. Duke Energys revenue for the quarter was down 1.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.11 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Duke Energy Co. will post 5.98 earnings per share for the current year.

Duke Energy Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, March 18th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 16th were paid a $1.025 dividend. This represents a $4.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.31%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 15th. Duke Energys dividend 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.

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General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong holds phone talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on March 26, 2024. (Photo: VNA)

The Party chief congratulated Putin on his re-election as President of the Russian Federation for the 2024 - 2030 tenure with a record number of votes in the country's modern history, saying that this reflected the trust and support of the Russian people for the President's leadership in steering the Russian Federation's development in the new era.

He also extended his deepest condolences and sympathies to President Putin, the Russian people and families of the victims of the terrorist attack in Moscow on March 22.

Vietnam greatly appreciates the significant assistance from the Russian Federation in the former Soviet Union as well as the Russian Federation today, he said, affirming that the comprehensive strategic partnership with the Russian Federation is considered one of the top priorities in Vietnams foreign policy.

For his part, President Putin expressed his delight at the positive development of the bilateral relationship in all areas, affirming that Vietnam is always a friend and a reliable partner of the Russian Federation.

He thanked the Vietnamese Party, State, and people for their sympathies towards the losses suffered by the Russian people in the terrorist attack.

The Vietnamese Party leader took this occasion to invite President Putin to officially visit Vietnam soon. The Russian President accepted the invitation with pleasure, saying that the two sides will coordinate to arrange a suitable time./.
Awakn Life Sciences Corp. (OTCMKTS:AWKNF  Get Free Report) saw a significant decrease in short interest during the month of March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 1,100 shares, a decrease of 63.3% from the February 29th total of 3,000 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 19,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Awakn Life Sciences Price Performance

AWKNF traded up $0.01 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $0.10. The stock had a trading volume of 450 shares, compared to its average volume of 20,949. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $0.10 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $0.12. Awakn Life Sciences has a twelve month low of $0.04 and a twelve month high of $0.36.

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About Awakn Life Sciences

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Further Reading

Awakn Life Sciences Corp., a biotechnology company, engages in the researching, developing, operations, and delivering of psychedelic therapeutics to treat addiction and other mental health conditions in the United Kingdom and Europe. The company has a collaboration agreement with the University of Exeter for exploring the use of ketamine-assisted therapy to treat Severe AUD.

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Ford Motor (NYSE:F  Get Free Report) rose 2.7% during trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $12.80 and last traded at $12.78. Approximately 11,351,072 shares were traded during mid-day trading, a decline of 79% from the average daily volume of 53,829,082 shares. The stock had previously closed at $12.44.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

F has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Barclays increased their target price on Ford Motor from $14.00 to $15.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 8th. Piper Sandler began coverage on Ford Motor in a research note on Friday, March 15th. They issued a neutral rating and a $13.00 target price on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed a sector perform rating and set a $12.00 price target on shares of Ford Motor in a report on Wednesday, February 7th. BNP Paribas downgraded Ford Motor from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $12.00 price target on the stock. in a report on Wednesday, December 13th. Finally, HSBC initiated coverage on Ford Motor in a report on Monday, December 4th. They set a hold rating and a $11.30 price target on the stock. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Ford Motor has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $13.75.

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Ford Motor Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.33, a current ratio of 1.20 and a quick ratio of 1.04. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $12.14 and a 200-day moving average of $11.69. The stock has a market cap of $51.38 billion, a PE ratio of 11.83, a PEG ratio of 1.03 and a beta of 1.63.

Ford Motor (NYSE:F  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, February 6th. The auto manufacturer reported $0.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.12 by $0.17. Ford Motor had a return on equity of 18.95% and a net margin of 2.47%. The firm had revenue of $43.21 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $43.06 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.51 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 3.5% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts predict that Ford Motor will post 1.88 EPS for the current year.

Ford Motor Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a Variable dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Investors of record on Friday, February 16th were given a dividend of $0.33 per share. This represents a dividend yield of 4.7%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 15th. Ford Motors dividend payout ratio is currently 55.56%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Ford Motor

In other Ford Motor news, CAO Mark Kosman sold 26,898 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $12.53, for a total transaction of $337,031.94. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now owns 7,102 shares in the company, valued at approximately $88,988.06. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. 0.80% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Ford Motor

Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. HighPoint Advisor Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of Ford Motor in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $1,864,000. Fairman Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of Ford Motor in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $31,000. M3 Advisory Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of Ford Motor in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $471,000. Leo Wealth LLC bought a new stake in shares of Ford Motor in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $249,000. Finally, Trust Co. of Vermont lifted its stake in shares of Ford Motor by 38.4% in the 4th quarter. Trust Co. of Vermont now owns 3,602 shares of the auto manufacturers stock valued at $44,000 after purchasing an additional 1,000 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 58.74% of the companys stock.

Ford Motor Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Ford Motor Company develops, delivers, and services a range of Ford trucks, commercial cars and vans, sport utility vehicles, and Lincoln luxury vehicles worldwide. It operates through Ford Blue, Ford Model e, and Ford Pro; Ford Next; and Ford Credit segments. The company sells Ford and Lincoln vehicles, service parts, and accessories through distributors and dealers, as well as through dealerships to commercial fleet customers, daily rental car companies, and governments.

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Altfest L J & Co. Inc. lifted its holdings in iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF (NYSEARCA:EWT  Free Report) by 3.2% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 42,101 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 1,310 shares during the quarter. Altfest L J & Co. Inc.s holdings in iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF were worth $1,938,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Idaho Trust Bank acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF during the second quarter worth about $219,000. Comerica Bank acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF during the third quarter worth about $11,646,000. IMC Chicago LLC acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF during the third quarter worth about $491,000. Rhumbline Advisers grew its stake in iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF by 10.1% during the third quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 174,544 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $7,776,000 after buying an additional 16,070 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Legal & General Group Plc grew its stake in iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF by 6.8% during the third quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 735,899 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $32,795,000 after buying an additional 46,668 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF Trading Up 0.2 %

iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF stock traded up $0.08 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $48.54. 2,164,636 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,358,594. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $46.50 and a two-hundred day moving average of $46.12. iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF has a twelve month low of $42.13 and a twelve month high of $50.19. The company has a market cap of $3.92 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.02 and a beta of 0.86.

iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF Company Profile

Ishares MSCI Taiwan Index Fund (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI Taiwan IndexSM (the Index). The Index consists of stocks traded primarily on the Taiwan Stock Exchange.

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Canadian Pacific Kansas City (TSE:CP  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CP) had its price objective lifted by analysts at CIBC from C$124.00 to C$130.00 in a note issued to investors on Wednesday, BayStreet.CA reports. The brokerage presently has an outperform rating on the stock. CIBCs price objective points to a potential upside of 8.44% from the companys current price.

CP has been the subject of several other reports. Sanford C. Bernstein raised their target price on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$112.00 to C$117.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Monday, February 5th. ATB Capital lifted their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$117.00 to C$120.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 31st. Royal Bank of Canada lowered their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$128.00 to C$127.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. TD Securities raised their price target on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$110.00 to C$115.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 31st. Finally, Scotiabank cut Canadian Pacific Kansas City from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and increased their target price for the stock from C$120.00 to C$126.00 in a report on Monday. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of C$116.75.

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Canadian Pacific Kansas City Stock Performance

Shares of CP traded up C$1.50 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching C$119.88. 237,455 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,167,950. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 53.85, a quick ratio of 0.42 and a current ratio of 0.53. The stocks fifty day moving average is C$114.36 and its 200 day moving average is C$105.77. Canadian Pacific Kansas City has a 1-year low of C$94.45 and a 1-year high of C$123.37. The stock has a market cap of C$111.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.48, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.32 and a beta of 0.77.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (TSE:CP  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CP) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 30th. The company reported C$1.18 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of C$1.12 by C$0.06. Canadian Pacific Kansas City had a return on equity of 9.65% and a net margin of 31.28%. The firm had revenue of C$3.78 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of C$3.66 billion. Equities research analysts anticipate that Canadian Pacific Kansas City will post 4.3455344 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Canadian Pacific Kansas City news, Senior Officer John Kenneth Brooks sold 27,505 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$86.33, for a total transaction of C$2,374,638.67. In other news, Senior Officer James Dominic Luther Clements sold 7,828 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$118.91, for a total value of C$930,859.57. Also, Senior Officer John Kenneth Brooks sold 27,505 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$86.33, for a total transaction of C$2,374,638.67. Over the last three months, insiders sold 37,833 shares of company stock valued at $3,612,023. Insiders own 0.03% of the companys stock.

About Canadian Pacific Kansas City

(Get Free Report)

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates a transcontinental freight railway in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The company transports bulk commodities, including grain, coal, potash, fertilizers, and sulphur; merchandise freight, such as forest products, energy, chemicals and plastics, metals, minerals, consumer products, and automotive; and intermodal traffic comprising retail goods in overseas containers.

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Elk River Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Pioneer Natural Resources (NYSE:PXD  Free Report) by 0.5% in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 32,567 shares of the oil and gas development companys stock after purchasing an additional 175 shares during the period. Pioneer Natural Resources makes up 1.4% of Elk River Wealth Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 24th biggest holding. Elk River Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Pioneer Natural Resources were worth $7,324,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. BluePath Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in Pioneer Natural Resources in the third quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Ancora Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Pioneer Natural Resources by 77.4% in the first quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC now owns 149 shares of the oil and gas development companys stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 65 shares in the last quarter. DecisionPoint Financial LLC purchased a new position in shares of Pioneer Natural Resources in the second quarter valued at $34,000. Carmel Capital Partners LLC purchased a new position in Pioneer Natural Resources during the third quarter worth about $34,000. Finally, Jones Financial Companies Lllp grew its position in Pioneer Natural Resources by 85.0% during the third quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 148 shares of the oil and gas development companys stock worth $34,000 after buying an additional 68 shares in the last quarter. 80.57% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Activity at Pioneer Natural Resources

In other Pioneer Natural Resources news, Director J Kenneth Thompson sold 1,000 shares of Pioneer Natural Resources stock in a transaction on Friday, March 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $250.00, for a total value of $250,000.00. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 16,070 shares in the company, valued at $4,017,500. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other Pioneer Natural Resources news, Director J Kenneth Thompson sold 1,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $250.00, for a total value of $250,000.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 16,070 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,017,500. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, EVP Mark H. Kleinman sold 3,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $234.35, for a total transaction of $820,225.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 49,856 shares in the company, valued at approximately $11,683,753.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 33,350 shares of company stock valued at $8,175,628 over the last ninety days. Insiders own 0.55% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Susquehanna increased their target price on Pioneer Natural Resources from $237.00 to $246.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, March 4th. UBS Group reduced their price objective on Pioneer Natural Resources from $269.00 to $250.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, December 14th. Stifel Nicolaus reduced their target price on Pioneer Natural Resources from $243.00 to $224.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Mizuho lifted their target price on Pioneer Natural Resources from $276.00 to $290.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, March 19th. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on Pioneer Natural Resources in a research note on Wednesday, March 20th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have issued a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $254.90.

Read Our Latest Research Report on PXD

Pioneer Natural Resources Trading Up 0.7 %

Shares of NYSE PXD traded up $1.67 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $258.52. 513,680 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,092,000. Pioneer Natural Resources has a twelve month low of $193.40 and a twelve month high of $260.42. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21, a quick ratio of 0.72 and a current ratio of 0.88. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $234.36 and a 200 day simple moving average of $233.42. The stock has a market capitalization of $60.40 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.69 and a beta of 1.30.

Pioneer Natural Resources (NYSE:PXD  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 22nd. The oil and gas development company reported $5.28 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $5.41 by ($0.13). Pioneer Natural Resources had a net margin of 25.28% and a return on equity of 22.42%. The business had revenue of $5.22 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.28 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $5.91 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 2.1% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts expect that Pioneer Natural Resources will post 20.35 earnings per share for the current year.

Pioneer Natural Resources Cuts Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 22nd. Investors of record on Monday, March 4th were given a $2.56 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, March 1st. This represents a $10.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.96%. Pioneer Natural Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 24.70%.

About Pioneer Natural Resources

(Free Report)

Pioneer Natural Resources Company operates as an independent oil and gas exploration and production company in the United States. The company explores for, develops, and produces oil, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and gas. It has operations in the Midland Basin in West Texas. The company was founded in 1997 and is headquartered in Irving, Texas.

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China has actively expanded its vocational education to align with the demands of enterprises in recent years. According to this year's government work report, the country will redouble its efforts to improve vocational education. Thanks to diverse programs, the country's vocational education has embraced international cooperation.

Statistics show that in the past decade since the inception of the Belt and Road Initiative, more than 400 higher vocational colleges in China and foreign educational institutions have forged cooperation in running schools, with Luban Workshop established in over 20 countries.

SHENYANG, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Chen Meina, a 29-year-old elderly carer, made a deliberate choice to stay in Germany and continue with her work during the Spring Festival, rather than returning to her hometown in northeast China's Liaoning Province.

"I've been studying and working in Germany for more than five years. I incorporate traditional Chinese medicine nursing skills into my daily work, and many elderly individuals here appreciate it," Chen said.

Chen graduated from Liaoning Vocational College of Medicine in 2018. The institution is run by the provincial government to cultivate highly skilled professionals in nursing, pharmacy and medicine.

In that same year, an educational cooperation agreement was signed between the vocational college and Germany's Oscar Kemmel Vocational College for a nursing talent training program. Subsequently, the first batch of 17 Chinese students pursued studies in Germany, with six opting to serve as elderly care workers in German nursing homes, including Chen.

In recent years, China has actively expanded its vocational education to align with the demands of enterprises. According to this year's government work report, the country will redouble its efforts to improve vocational education. Thanks to diverse programs, the country's vocational education has embraced international cooperation.

CULTIVATING QUALITY PROFESSIONALS

The Luban Workshop exemplifies a mutually beneficial model for international vocational education cooperation. Named after Lu Ban, an ancient Chinese woodcraft master, this workshop offers vocational skills training for local communities. Similar workshops have been established in Thailand, India, Indonesia and other countries.

This photo taken on Feb. 15, 2024 shows a view of the Luban Workshop in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Technical and Vocational Training Institute in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Li Yahui)

Statistics show that in the past decade since the inception of the Belt and Road Initiative, more than 400 higher vocational colleges in China and foreign educational institutions have forged cooperation in running schools, with Luban Workshop established in over 20 countries.

Many vocational education programs from China have also been introduced in the Belt and Road participating countries, cultivating high-quality professional employees.

In 2017, the Mombasa-Nairobi Railway, a Belt and Road flagship project jointly built by China Road and Bridge Corporation and the Kenya government, officially opened to traffic. Two vocational colleges from Liaoning sent their staff to Kenya and helped Kenya train over 300 railway talents.

"Recently, we've signed two new international joint education programs, mainly serving the construction of China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and China-Mongolia railway. Compared with previous programs, we are paying more attention to the employment and technical needs of the enterprises this time," said Dong Yanan, vice president of Liaoning Railway Vocational and Technical College.

At present, China has the world's largest vocational education system. According to data released by the Ministry of Education in 2023, there are 9,752 secondary vocational schools in the country, with over 17.8 million students. In 2022, there were 1,521 higher vocational schools with an enrollment of 5.46 million students. These institutions annually produce approximately 10 million high-quality technical personnel.

OVERSEAS PROGRAMS

"Many believe that only students with good academic performance from famous universities have the opportunity to study abroad. Now, we can also study abroad through our own efforts and excellent vocational skills, which is a great encouragement to me," said Chen Xingwang, one of the six students from the School of Economics and Management at Guangzhou Nanyang Polytechnic College who studied in the Republic of Korea last year.

In order to better serve the development of Chinese enterprises overseas, 18 vocational colleges in south China's Guangdong Province have launched 39 overseas education programs.

Students attend a vocational program run by BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd. (BBA) in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning Province, March 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)

Shenzhen Polytechnic University has collaborated with enterprises such as China's tech giant Huawei to establish seven overseas vocational education and training centers in five countries including Bulgaria and Germany.

"I would like to thank Guangdong Industry Polytechnic for its professional lectures, and the teachers' ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and enthusiastically makes each class both educational and enjoyable," said Chan Sai Keong, dean of Business, Information and Human Sciences of Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur.

China has also invited its global partners to empower the development of its vocational education.

Since 2013, BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd. (BBA), located in Shenyang, the capital of Liaoning, has run a vocational program. Collaborating with vocational schools, BBA develops industry-relevant courses that align with the needs of both the schools and the enterprise. This initiative aims to offer students more comprehensive practical training and on-the-job internship opportunities.

Currently, two vocational colleges and BBA are jointly building a program. Every year, the company selects some students who will go from vocational colleges and training centers to on-the-job internships, and can get employed after they pass the examinations.

"Thanks to the program, I immediately got a job after graduation," said Sun Haoran, 22, a maintenance worker at the company's production line. "Last year, I spent eight weeks in Munich on the BMW Group's global apprenticeship exchange program. I was exposed to advanced equipment and acquired a deeper understanding of equipment maintenance," Sun added.

A cooperation signing ceremony of "Mozi workshop" is held during the Belt and Road International Conference on Reform and Development of Vocational Education in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Sept. 27, 2023. (Xinhua)

Colleges and enterprises in Liaoning have also signed cooperation agreements with educational institutions in some Belt and Road participating countries to build "Mozi workshop." Named after the ancient Chinese philosopher Mozi, also known as Micius, the workshop aims to train skilled craftsmen like Mozi.

"Vocational education exchange is a pragmatic move to meet the development needs of enterprises in the context of economic globalization. It encompasses technical and cultural exchange and dialogue, playing an important role in promoting the development of China and Belt and Road participating countries," said Lao Hansheng, head of Guangdong Lingnan Institute of Technology.

Editor: ZAD
Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Nauruan President David Adeang, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with visiting Nauruan President David Adeang in Beijing on Tuesday.

Li said the resumption of diplomatic ties between China and Nauru in January this year is in the fundamental interest of the two peoples. The presidents of the two states held talks on Monday and reached important consensus, which signifies the beginning of a new chapter in China-Nauru relations.

He said China is ready to work with Nauru to deepen mutual trust and expand mutually-beneficial cooperation.

The premier added that China will firmly support Nauru in safeguarding its independence and national dignity, and choosing a development path in accordance with its own national conditions. China is willing to strengthen mutual support with Nauru on issues involving each other's core interests and major concerns.

Li said China will encourage Chinese companies to invest in Nauru and is ready to further enhance bilateral cooperation in fields including infrastructure construction, transportation, tourism and health under the framework of joint construction of the Belt and Road. He called on the two countries to expand exchanges between localities and youth.

Li also said China and Nauru will jointly promote full and effective implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and its Paris Agreement, and strengthen mutual support and coordination within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations and Pacific Islands Forum to jointly safeguard the common interest of developing countries.

Adeang said Nauru will adhere to the one-China principle and support China's peaceful reunification. Nauru highly appreciates China's adherence to the principles of mutual respect and equality, and its commitment to promoting international peace and cooperation.

Nauru is ready to enhance cooperation with China in areas including trade, infrastructure construction, climate change, sustainable development, health, tourism, education and people-to-people engagement, as well as coordination under multilateral mechanisms, he said.

Adeang is on a state visit to China from March 24 to 29 at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. This is Adeang's first state visit to China since the two countries resumed diplomatic relations in January this year.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Nauruan President David Adeang, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

Editor: ZAD
Leo Varadkar has accused Sinn Fein of displaying so much cowardice on hate speech legislation.

The outgoing Taoiseach said the party had buckled in the face of an online campaign of misinformation about what effect the Bill will have.

There has been some political opposition to the Bill, particularly in the Seanad, where senators have questioned whether it would have a chilling effect on free speech and asked for a definition of the word hate.

Sinn Feins spokesman for justice Pa Daly has called for the Bill to be ditched entirely, saying it was badly thought through and is not fit for purpose, despite the party voting the Bill through the Dail last April.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee has defended the draft laws as an effort to combat a rise in hate crimes and hate speech, but said she was listening to concerns.

Speaking on Wednesday, Mr Varadkar said many elements of the Bill are misunderstood and rounded on Sinn Fein for their stance.

When it comes to Sinn Fein, never has a party, in my recollection, displayed so much cowardice on so much issues so quickly, he said.

This is a party that supported the Bill in the Dail, tried to pretend they didnt support it in the Seanad and they actually didnt vote against it anyway, and now all of a sudden, because theres an online campaign of misinformation about it, they buckle.

These are not the kind of people who you want running your country, quite frankly.

When it comes to the Bill itself, it has various elements to it and I think its misunderstood by a lot of people, and I hope we can have further debate about it.

He said he does not believe the provisions around hate crimes are controversial and that he does not believe any normal person thinks incitement to violence should not be a crime, such as calling on people to burn down a building.

The Taoiseach said there is some controversy around parts of the Bill that are less clear.

He said: For example, having certain information on your phone that could be hateful, for example, and having intent to distribute.

I know Minister McEntee had already developed a number of amendments to allay some of the concerns that people have from a civil liberties point of view. I think it is important to listen to those concerns.

The concerns that I would say we should listen to  and I will be TD, so well be voting on this, so it will still be part of my business  is concerned around civil liberties, particularly around the concerns that the Irish Council of Civil Liberties have expressed around the Bill, and thats what the legislative process is about, its about reforming these things.

There are people who have a totally other agenda and their agenda is one of hate, and they are terrified if this legislation goes through, that theyre going to be held accountable. Theyre the ones we should stand up to.
On March 26, the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company officially opened its simulation center in Luxembourg purposed for tire design and development. This follows the launch of the inaugural center in Akron, Ohio, in 2021.

Outfitted with a DiM250 dynamic driving simulator developed by VI-grade, the center is designed to enhance Goodyears collaboration with OEMs and support tire performance through personalized product development.

Back in 2020, Goodyear purchased two driving simulators from VI-grade.

Using a virtual tire development process, the new center will test and validate tire models for vehicle prototypes to enable a speedier production process for tire modifications.

Romain Hansen, vice president of EMEA product development at Goodyear, said, The opening of our industry-leading simulation center in Luxembourg displays Goodyears commitment to investing in and shaping the future of mobility.

The center will also enable Goodyear to achieve approval for all development tires with only one physical iteration. Based on Goodyear calculations, the ability to develop one physical iteration will save an average of 13,000 tires and 97,500km of physical tire testing.

Our virtual tire development team has run numerous projects to date with the leading OEMs from Europe, the US and China, said Hansen. Once the automotive engineers experience our virtual development process, they acknowledge both the potential business and possible sustainability impacts.

Following a successful first project with Maserati to produce bespoke tires for the Gran Turismo in 2023, the simulation center is supporting Goodyear in developing tailor-made tires for OEMs globally.
KABUL, March 25 (Xinhua) -- An iron-smelting plant has been opened in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, as part of efforts to get the war-torn country towards achieving self-sufficiency, local television TOLOnews reported on Monday.

A staff member works at a newly-opened iron-smelting plant in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, March 26, 2024. An iron-smelting plant has been opened in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, as part of efforts to get the war-torn country towards achieving self-sufficiency, local television TOLOnews reported on Monday. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)

KABUL, March 25 (Xinhua) -- An iron-smelting plant has been opened in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, as part of efforts to get the war-torn country towards achieving self-sufficiency, local television TOLOnews reported on Monday.

"Opening of the iron-smelting factory is important for the economic growth and development of the country," the private media outlet quoted Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, acting deputy prime minister on economic affairs, as saying.

Baradar also noted that the administration would continue to support the investment in Afghanistan as part of efforts to stand on its feet.

Earlier, Nooruddin Azizi, acting minister of industry and commerce, stated that the country had achieved self-sufficiency in 134 domestic products and semi-self-sufficiency in another 100 items. 

This photo taken on March 26, 2024 shows a newly-opened iron-smelting plant in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan. An iron-smelting plant has been opened in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, as part of efforts to get the war-torn country towards achieving self-sufficiency, local television TOLOnews reported on Monday. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)
YINCHUAN, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Growing up amid the rugged beauty of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in northwest China, Ma Huijuan had little inkling that one day her spontaneous musings on rural life would evolve into compelling stories that could captivate readers' hearts and minds, and even become published books.

Born in the 1980s in Xihaigu, once dubbed "the most barren place under the sky," Ma's schooling halted at 16 due to poverty, resigned to a fate that her future would be "a repetition of my father's generation, just tending to the land."

The turning point came in 2000. Amid the local government's poverty alleviation efforts, her family was relocated to the Hongsibu district, which is relatively more habitable.

"This drastic change instilled in me the belief to realize my self-worth," Ma reminisced.

With better living conditions and more working opportunities, Ma Huijuan saved 500 yuan (about 70.4 U.S. dollars) to buy her first cellphone in 2008. Through this small device, she discovered a world beyond her village, where many knew little of her hometown.

That was when she decided to use her phone as an authoring tool, sharing her life experiences and observations in the rural area on Qzone, a Chinese social networking website.

As her posts gained traction, netizens captivated by her rustic charm submitted her works to literary magazines, where they were accepted immediately, kick-starting her career as an author.

Across more than 10 worn-out devices, Ma has penned millions of characters. Dubbed affectionately by her readers as the "writer of thumbs," in a nod to her composition tool of choice, Ma now boasts six published books, each authentically portraying her hometown's evolution.

"I admit that we were in poverty back then, but I want to tell everyone that despite the barrenness and hardships, in our lives, we still have happiness and positive things," she said.

Beyond her literary pursuits, Ma champions rural welfare, particularly for women.

In 2018, Ma became a national lawmaker as she was elected to be a deputy to the National People's Congress, the country's national legislature. In 2023, she was reelected.

A familiar sight in her community, Ma regularly engages with locals to understand their needs, and, of course, she takes with her a notebook.

"Within casual chats and discussions often lie important ideas. Jotting them down allows me to turn them into valuable suggestions later," she said.

As a national lawmaker, Ma has monitored the intellectual and cultural progress of women in rural areas. In 2018, she set up a reading club in her community for women. She also gives lectures addressing the rights and interests of women as well as domestic violence.

Sun Juanjuan, a local, reflects on the influence of Ma's initiatives. "I was busy taking care of the kids at home, and it felt like the entire day revolved around them and cooking, with not much else to do. After participating in the reading club, I realized the profound value of books and knowledge."

"At our gathering, we often say that we are not just wives or mothers; instead, we are individuals with our own identities. We can start our own business, contribute to the country, and fulfill our own aspirations," said Ma.

At the recent session of the national legislature earlier this month, Ma championed cultural enrichment in rural areas.

Rural culture is a vehicle by which villagers pursue beauty, inquire into history, and aspire to intellectual fulfillment, said Ma, emphasizing its importance for the country's rural revitalization drive.

Her advocacy is underscored in her recent literary endeavors. She published a book for children earlier this month, recording Hongsibu's transformations over the past decades.

Ma also authored a book recording her experience working as a national lawmaker, which has broadened her horizons and deepened her understanding of various sectors and industries.

"It is not only a learning process, but also a journey of personal growth. Thanks to the experience, my writing has transcended narrow boundaries."

Editor: WRX
Ukrainian Foreign Minister to visit India this week for the first time in 7 years

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said that the main purpose of his first visit to India this week is to strengthen Ukrainian-Indian relations.

"I have already announced that this week, at the invitation of my Indian colleague, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, I will make a visit to New Delhi. This will be my first visit to this country and the first visit of the Ukrainian Foreign Minister to India in the last seven years. The purpose of this visit is to strengthen Ukrainian-Indian relations," he said during an online briefing with foreign media while in Warsaw.

Kuleba recalled that a week ago Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which the issues of bilateral cooperation, trade and the upcoming Global Peace Summit were raised.

"My visit will help to realize the agreements reached and further develop our ties. Ukraine views India as an important global power with a strong international voice. We are confident that close cooperation will benefit both our countries," the minister emphasized.

Kuleba said that during his visit to New Delhi a number of talks, including between foreign ministers, as well as a meeting of the Ukrainian-Indian intergovernmental commission were planned.

As reported, on January 3, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in a telephone conversation discussed cooperation on the "Formula World" and agreed to hold in the near future the first meeting of the Indian-Ukrainian intergovernmental Commission since 2018.
The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors on Tuesday approved a new Development Policy Operation (DPO) for Ukraine in the amount of $1.5 billion.

"Despite enormous challenges, Ukraine is undertaking challenging reforms, with an eye to cementing Ukraine's future in the European Union and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the country," said Antonella Bassani, World Bank Regional Vice President for Europe and Central Asia.

According to her, the bank commends and continues to support the Ukrainian authorities for these efforts, has allowed Ukraine to maintain macroeconomic stability and provide essential services to its citizens.

"The World Bank and international partners will continue our support to help the Ukrainian people recover and rebuild their country and economy," Bassani said.

The Growth Foundations operation is credit enhanced through the ADVANCE Ukraine Trust Fund ($984 million), supported by the Ministry of Finance of Japan, and guaranteed by the Government of the United Kingdom ($516 million).

The operation, the first in a proposed series of two, is designed to support the Government of Ukraine's reforms needed to strengthen the country's economic policy framework and enhance its macro-financial stability.

"Focusing on boosting critical competition, enhancing the financial sector, energy markets, trade, and fiscal reforms, the operation aims to support Ukraine's growth potential by increasing both private investment and productivity," the World Bank said in the press release.

According to the press release, the operation is structured into two pillars. The first pillar aims to strengthen the economic policy framework to facilitate a structural shift towards sustainable growth. It supports policy actions to strengthen the corporate governance of state-owned enterprises, enable a fiscally sustainable and effective green energy transition, facilitate credit provision to the private sector, especially agriculture, and align Ukraine's customs regulations with the European Union.

The second pillar aims to enhance macro-financial stability to create a growth-conducive environment. This pillar supports policy actions to strengthen domestic revenue potential, improve capital market supervision, and safeguard against corruption risks in public procurement.

The World Bank recalled that other ongoing projects include emergency operations for health, transport, energy, housing, and agriculture that have mobilized partner resources through a flexible design to disburse funds quickly and can be scaled as necessary when additional financing becomes available.
Right now hottie Sydney and her promo work inspires our peek at pop culture, community news and top headlines.

Check TKC news gathering . . .

Cowtown Cash-In Time Crunch

Unclaimed $50,000 Powerball prize sold in Kansas City set to expire this week The Powerball ticket was sold on Sept. 30, 2023, at the QuikTrip at NW 90th Street and Green Hills Road, according to the Missouri Lottery.

Money Goal Line

$3 million slated for 9th & Van Brunt soccer park improvements | Northeast News Michael BushnellPublisher What started as a funding request almost fifteen years ago by Lykins Neighborhood President Ron Heldstab culminated in a unanimous passing vote by the Kansas City, MO City...

Spring Chill Precautions

KCKFD has warning for others after fire destroys home A family of nine is trying to figure what to do next after a space heater likely sparked a fire that destroyed their Kansas City, Kansas, home

Locals Provide Cover

Diaper Madness! Help us raise an extra 100,000 diapers for KC families in need We reached our goal of providing 500,000 diapers to families this March, but the need is still drastic.

With Taylor's Permission?!?

Kelce Jam: What to Know About Travis's Kansas City Music Festival Travis Kelce has brought back 'Kelce Jam,' his Kansas City Music Festival, so here's what you need to know

Diva Backs US Heavy Metal

Sydney Sweeney Is Giving Away This Custom Ford Mustang to a Woman Who Moved Her to Tears (Exclusive) Sydney Sweeney is all about the garage - and one lucky fan will soon benefit from her passion by getting a custom 2024 Ford Mustang GT designed by Sweeney herself.

White House Team Effort

Obama jumps in to help Biden defeat Trump again | CNN Politics Barack Obama spent several hours last Friday in the family dining room of the White House, visiting his former vice president, Joe Biden. The occasion was hardly just two old friends catching up.

MAGA Meme Stock To Moon

Trump's social media company rises 16% in first day trading gains, but the stock could fall 95%, says an IPO expert Many of those investing in Trump Media are small-time investors either trying to support Trump or aiming to cash in on the mania.

Make America Pray Again?!?

Trump is selling 'God Bless USA' Bibles Former President Trump made a pitch Tuesday for "God Bless USA" Bibles that he is selling in partnership with country musician Lee Greenwood ahead of Good Friday and Easter Sunday. "Religion and Christianity are the biggest things missing from this country. And I truly believe that we need to bring them back and have to...

Right-Wing Talker Rebukes

Ronna McDaniel Reportedly Seeks Full Contract Payoff As Trump Slams NBC McDaniel reportedly expects to be paid her full contract amount of $600,000.

Eastern Europe War Reprisal

Just three weapons will turn the Ukraine war back around. And the USA is back in the fight Artillery, armour ... and Patriots. All an army needs

Holy Land Fighting Cont'd

Israel and Hezbollah trade strikes over Lebanon border The Iran-backed movement fires rockets into Israel killing one, after a deadly strike on a Lebanese village.

Far East Sausage Fest Offers Reassurance

China's Xi holds all-male meeting with US business leaders Several U.S. business leaders met with Chinese President Xi Jinping Wednesday, as he made his case calling for closer ties between the two largest economies in the world. The all-male meeting was held in Beijing and came as the U.S. and China have had a steady improvement in relations in the past several years.

South Of Border Influence?!?

Who Could Sway the Outcome of the U.S. Election? Mexico's President MEXICO CITY - Migrants were streaming across the U.S. southern border in record numbers, international rail bridges were abruptly shut down and official ports of entry closed. Desperate for help in December, President Joe Biden called President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador of Mexico, who told him to quickly send a delegation to the Mexican capital, according to several U.S.

Narco Speed Racer Captured

Largest cocaine shipment of the year seized in Colombian Caribbean after high-speed boat chase Officials released dramatic video of the chase, during which the crew allegedly "began evasive actions, throwing packages into the water."

Driving Hazard Described

'Hamstering' is the 2024 sex trend involving your car - and some gymnastics TikTok's 'hamstering' and 'thirsty hamster' sex trend (involving a car) has got people talking, with some videos amassing more than 2 million views.

AWESOME TKC READER: "McDonalds could not be more unhealthy." McDonalds: "Hold my beer!!!"

Krispy Kreme donuts are coming to McDonald's | CNN Business McDonald's customers can soon pair Krispy Kreme donuts with their morning McCafe, in a new food partnership that seeks to expand both brands but that could wind up weakening them instead.

Old School Real Estate Reporting

Mansion in the front, dance hall in the back: Inside a KC building with a wild history A reader wondered about this Paseo building on a busy intersection. We got a tour and dug back in our archives to answer their question.

Covering Her Bases

'Swag in our step': Lee's Summit woman started her business 10 years ago because of Royals For Gina Siebel, this time of year is special for more reasons than one. Not only is she a huge Royals fan, but she says she started her T-shirt design business in 2015 thanks to them.

NextGen Crisis Housing Info

'The need far outweighs the capacity': Drumm Farm Center for Children works to combat homelessness Young adults and children faced with the foster system or homelessness do not have it easy by any means battling traumatic situations every single day, but places like Drumm Farm Center for Children can help.

Dishing Latino Treats

Dish & Drink KC: Hispanic-owned businesses at Los Hornos and Cafe Ollama Digging into a few different tasty Hispanic dishes at Los Hornos and Cafe Ollama, and what to expect when you're there.

Today's Forecast For Now

FIRST WARN FORECAST: A chilly yet sunny Wednesday, highs in the low 50s A winter blast takes over but is brief with tee-shirt temps returning within the next 24 hours.

Wilder Woods & The War and Treaty - Be Yourself is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now.
Nationwide outcry over brutality seen in Missouri schools has sparked a political firestorm.

Sadly . . .

Some of the discourse focuses ire against a conservative politico and not the horrific act of violence that caused permanent injury to a student.

Here's the latest in this tragedy . . .



Hazelwood School District lawyer Cindy Reeds Ormsby said in a Tuesday letter to Bailey that his obvious racial bias against majority minority school districts is clear.



Do you honestly believe, again, without any official verification or specific knowledge, that the fight on March 8th was a result of a racial issue between the female students that was caused by the HSD belief in the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion for all? Ormsby wrote. What community do you represent as the Missouri Attorney General? Do you represent all citizens of Missouri? Or only the white citizens?

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Missouri attorney general is accused of racial bias for pinning a student fight on diversity program Days after Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey blamed an after-school fight on a school district's diversity programming, a lawyer for the majority Black district in suburban St.

Somewhat related in terms of more criticism against the AG . .

Missouri AG sues Media Matters in lawsuit echoing Elon Musk's complaints Media watchdog slams "meritless, expensive, and harassing investigations."

Developing . .
When traveling, everyone is on the lookout for shortcuts and secrets that promise to make journeys smoother and more affordable. The internet is brimming with travel hacks, from the best times to book flights to magical ways to pack a suitcase.

You have likely come across countless tips promising to save you money, time, or both. Yet, not all travel hacks live up to the hype. In fact, some of these so-called clever tricks could end up causing more headaches than they are worth.

On this blog post, we will dive into the reality behind popular travel hacks. We will uncover which ones might actually set you back more than you think. Whether it is about booking flights on certain days of the week, packing hacks that promise to save you loads of space, or ways to skip lines at popular tourist attractions, we have got the lowdown.

Booking Last Minute for the Best Deals

You might think snagging a last-minute deal is one of the ultimate travel hacks. The belief that airlines drop prices to fill seats right before departure has been around for ages. However, this tactic often backfires, especially during peak travel seasons. Airlines know travelers are desperate and may actually raise prices. Advanced booking gives you a better chance at scoring a deal. Waiting until the last minute more often than not leads to paying premium prices.

Packing Everything into a Carry-On

Packing everything into a carry-on bag to avoid checked luggage fees seems smart. Yet, this can lead to issues at the boarding gate, especially with airlines enforcing strict carry-on policies. Overpacked bags might not fit in the overhead bins, causing last-minute checks and potential extra fees. Plus, hauling a heavy bag through the airport is no fun. It is better to pack smart and check a bag if necessary. This approach avoids stress and sometimes even saves money compared to unexpected fees.

Related Article: Travel Hacks to Keep in Mind if You Are Traveling to Sydney

Using Airport Currency Exchanges

Exchanging money at the airport is one of those travel hacks that seems convenient. Airports, however, offer some of the worst exchange rates and high fees. Local banks, ATMs, or even credit cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees are much better options. Planning ahead and exchanging a small amount of currency before you leave home can save you a lot. Always compare rates and fees to avoid losing money before your adventure even begins.

Travel Hacks Myth: Skipping Travel Insurance

Skipping on travel insurance to save money might seem like a good idea. Unexpected events, however, can turn this decision into a costly mistake. Travel insurance covers everything from trip cancellations to medical emergencies. Not having it can lead to massive out-of-pocket expenses if something goes wrong. Consider the potential risks and expenses before deciding to travel without insurance. Often, the peace of mind is worth the cost.

Eating Near Major Tourist Attractions

Finding food near major tourist spots might seem convenient, but it is rarely a good deal. Restaurants in these areas often have inflated prices and mediocre food. Walking just a few blocks away can lead to finding better quality food at more reasonable prices. This is not just about saving money but also about experiencing local cuisine. Researching and walking a bit further can enhance your travel experience significantly. It is a simple hack that actually works and enriches your journey.

Relying Solely on Free Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is tempting as a way to save on data costs. However, relying solely on free Wi-Fi can be risky. Public Wi-Fi networks are not always secure, exposing you to potential cyber threats. It also means you might waste time hunting for hotspots instead of enjoying your trip. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device. This ensures a reliable and secure connection, allowing you to explore freely without security concerns.

Travel hacks are meant to make your trips smoother and more enjoyable. However, not all hacks stand up to scrutiny. It is crucial to question and verify the effectiveness of these tips. Sometimes, what seems like a shortcut can end up being a longer route filled with hassles and additional costs. Wise travelers know that the best strategies are often rooted in preparation, smart choices, and understanding the fine print.

Read Also: Six Travel Hacks for an Affordable Luxury Weekend Trip
Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko and World Bank Regional Country Director for Ukraine, Belarus and Moldova Arup Banerji Banerjee signed a $1.5 billion loan agreement following the corresponding decision of the World Bank Board of Executive Directors on Tuesday to provide this new loan to Ukraine as part of the Growth Foundations Development Policy Operation (DPO).

"The funds are expected to be disbursed to the State Budget of Ukraine by the end of March this year," the Ministry of Finance said in a press release on Wednesday night.

The ministry recalled that the funds will be provided under a $984 million guarantee from the Government of Japan through the World Bank's ADVANCE Ukraine Trust Fund and a $516 million guarantee from the United Kingdom.

To reduce the cost of servicing Ukraine's loan obligations under the DPO 2024 loan for the coming years from Japanese funds, the DPO Loan Agreement provides for the capitalization of interest of $99.54 million, the Ministry of Finance said.

"The funds raised will be used to support the State Budget of Ukraine and economic recovery, as well as to finance priority social and humanitarian expenditures of the State Budget," Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko is quoted in the release.

The main areas of reforms included improving corporate governance, promoting renewable energy generation, introducing agricultural notes as a new instrument for farmers to obtain financing, strengthening the financial sector by improving access to finance for businesses (under the Affordable Loans 5-7-9 programme). It also includes the implementation of EU customs and tax experience into Ukrainian legislation, improvement of fiscal policy and regulation of capital markets, and ensuring transparency and accountability of procuring entities in the e-procurement system.
Ukraine will receive a EUR 100 million loan from the Council of Europe Development Bank for the eRecovery project, said Deputy Prime Minister for the Restoration of Ukraine - Minister for Communities and Territories Development and Infrastructure Oleksandr Kubrakov.

"Plus EUR100 million for compensation for destroyed housing from the Council of Europe Development Bank. The corresponding decision was made by the bank's administrative council, negotiations are ongoing on the signing of a framework credit agreement. This amount will be enough to obtain more than 2,000 housing certificates for Ukrainians whose housing was destroyed as a result of the Russian military aggression," he wrote on Facebook.

As reported, the administrative council of the Council of Europe Development Bank at a meeting on March 25-26 approved the HOME. Compensation for Destroyed Property project, within the framework of which it provided Ukraine with EUR 100 million.
The Polish capital hosted the first meeting of the member countries of the armoured vehicle coalition in support of Ukraine.

The event was held in Warsaw on March 26, Ukrinform reports, citing the website of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.

"During the first meeting, representatives of the participating countries developed a consolidated position on strengthening the technical park of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with certain types of armoured vehicles and organizing a system for their repair," the ministry said.

It is noted that four syndicates have been created within the armoured vehicle coalition. Each syndicate has specific tasks: supplying weapons and ammunition for Western armoured vehicles; maintenance and repair; training crews and technicians; and developing effective tactics for using armoured vehicles on the battlefield.

The armoured vehicle coalition aims to strengthen the armoured shield of the Ukrainian Defence Forces, to jointly enhance the capabilities of our army in the fight against the Russian aggressor, to ensure the effective operation, maintenance and repair of equipment and weapons provided by our allies," said Deputy Minister of Defence Ivan Havryliuk, who leads the Ukrainian delegation.

According to him, this is a very important initiative of the allies, given the existing problems in the Ukrainian Armed Forces with the repair of foreign armoured vehicles. "I hope that with the help of our allies, we will be able to create an effective repair base for Western armoured vehicles in Ukraine as soon as possible," the deputy minister added.

Havryliuk informed that the newly created coalition would develop a roadmap that will be in line with the development strategy of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

It is expected that in the long term, the member countries of the tank and armoured vehicle coalitions will help create the future armoured vehicle fleet of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and establish an innovative industrial partnership with Ukraine.

As reported, Poland and Germany initiated the creation of an armored vehicle coalition to meet the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The coalition has since been joined by other partners, including the UK, Sweden, and Italy.

Photo: Defense Ministry
The officials of France think that they are fishing in troubled waters, but actually, they are playing with fire. It is crystal clear that Paris aims to replete the gaps that emerged following the terrible and humiliating defeat in Africa, with the South Caucasus.

Thus, French President Macron did not sign the decision adopted by the French Parliament to recognise the so-called "artsakh republic" and even in a conversation with an Armenian woman, he underscored that France could not do anything because Garabagh is Azerbaijani territory. Even the Foreign Ministry of France denounced the decision of the French Parliament. However, after the war in Ukraine, all French politicians changed their attitude towards the issue. Suddenly, all of them started to speak about the rights of Armenians. France started arming Armenia.

The last ridiculous deed came from the French Ambassador to Armenia, Olivier Decottignies. The Ambassador shared a post about the Armenian residents of Garabagh and slandered Azerbaijan.

He unfoundedly claims that ostensibly Armenian residents of Garabagh lived under the siege for nine months and then supposedly "Azerbaijan brutally assaulted." It seems that the ambassador lost his memory. It is better to recall that the Azerbaijani state never blockaded anywhere. The members of the NGOs held a meeting on the Lachin-Khankendi road, and the road was open for civil transportation. Even the Azerbaijani Red Crescent Society and the Russian Red Cross Society send humanitarian aid to Armenian residents.

It was the heads of the separatist clique who refused the aid, not the Azerbaijani government. Besides, Armenian civilians, bloggers, and journalists wrote on social networks and media outlets that the separatist clique developed a black market by pretexting the so-called blockade and made good money by selling products in the black markets.

As for 'Azerbaijan's brutal attack', I do not know what he talks about. Azerbaijan has never attacked Armenia or Armenian residents in Garabagh. However, I know barbaric missile attacks from Armenia to the Azerbaijani territories, more precisely, Ganja city, Tartar, and Barda. In addition, the world is aware of French vandalism in Algeria, the Far East, and Africa.

Let the French Ambassador not forget that in museums in Paris, the skulls of people whom French soldiers beheaded are showcased even today. Despite all requests, the French government refuses to hand them back and proudly says they are trophies.

The ambassador's claims about ostensibly forcing Armenian residents to leave Garabagh are as slanderous as previous ones. Azerbaijan has always said that Armenian residents of Garabagh are its citizens. All Armenians who want to get an Azerbaijani passport can stay and live in Garabagh. So, the people who agreed to take Azerbaijani passports are in Garabagh today, and the others left. Thus, nobody forced them to leave. Besides, the Ambassador has never talked about the rights of Azerbaijanis and Kurds, who were forced to leave their hometowns in the 1990s, to return to their hometowns. It reveals once again the hypocritical character of the ambassador and French politicians.

Anyway, it seems we will encounter such double standards further. As mentioned earlier, despite having good relations with Armenia, Paris always tried at least to be neutral prior to the Ukrainian War. As the war started, Paris thought that Russia was engaged in the war in Ukraine and could push Russia out of Armenia. Besides, with the help of Armenia, they could gain power in the South Caucasus.

However, they are unaware that more devastating defeats and humiliations are waiting for them in the South Caucasus. Russia made the same mistake 30 years ago. Moscow thought that by helping Armenia, they would be able to stay in the South Caucasus. After 30 years, Russias influence in the region is the least. Armenia does its best to kick Russia out of its territory. The same fate awaits France. We hope Paris will take a lesson from Russia and double check its South Caucasus policy before taking further steps.
Expanding logistics capabilities, currency liberalization and transparent rules for reserving employees are important conditions for the development of export-oriented companies in Ukraine during the war, according to the Metinvest mining and metallurgical group.

"When we opened this temporary corridor, Metinvests products were carried by the first ships that followed those laden with agricultural goods. I am grateful to the defense forces, intelligence services and our partners who made this possible. This now opens new horizons for both the group and the country as a whole, in 2024 and the coming years. However, this is just the beginning. We need to keep working. The opening of the sea corridor, thanks to the Ukrainian governments efforts, has enabled us to boost exports, although we still face some logistical challenges," Metinvest CEO Yuriy Ryzhenkov said at the Forbes Made in Ukraine exporters summit.

"Although we are building a global company, our roots are Ukrainian. In our strategic steps, we always look at the foundation we have in place. All over the world, people are talking about green and digital metallurgy, which requires high-grade raw materials or semi-finished products. This is something Ukraine can do that will give an impetus to the development of the country after the war ends. We plan our future investments with this in mind. They should all be linked to the foundation that we have in Ukraine," he said.

"Ukrainian businesses now need currency liberalization to improve the investment climate and continue investing in Ukraine. If we do not introduce ways to achieve a return on investments, Ukraine will not be able to attract them," he added.

"In addition, the current employee mobilization regulations do not allow the group, one of the largest donors to the Ukrainian defense forces, to ramp up production," the official noted.

"We are a transparent company. All our employees are registered with military enlistment offices and have undergone military medical examinations. We are the largest donor, and this limits our ability to ramp up production, which could support the economy. That is why we need more transparent draft deferral regulations from the government, which would stimulate business growth and not just an outflow of personnel to the defense forces," according to him.
The West should aim to create more "strategic difficulties" in a bid to reign in Russia's behavior, with the first priority being to stop the aggression against Ukraine, an area where NATO is not doing enough.

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said this in an interview with Euractiv, Ukrinform reports.

We have to understand that Russia is a neighbour that is behaving irresponsibly, which is threatening the world with irresponsible nuclear threats and the idea of recreating its former empire at the expense of independent sovereign states () We have to put an end to that, Billstrom said.

Commenting on French President Emmanuel Macron's call for "strategic ambiguity" regarding Russia and hinting at the possibility of Western troops being deployed in Ukraine, Billstrom said that as far as the French proposal to train Ukrainian personnel on Ukrainian soil, its not on the table for Sweden, Billstrom said, hinting that Stockholm found the unfolding debate around Macrons comments untimely and distracting.

In order to (stop Russia - ed.), we first of all have to stop the aggression against Ukraine, Billstrom said. Not all countries understand the sense of urgency to act that there is. Those countries need to understand that the conflict is here and that we need to deal with it.

He said providing Ukraine with more military equipment "is not a question of industrial capacity" and "comes down to political leadership and political will", noting that the U.S. and Europe had fare more joint production capacity than Russia.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, Sweden will join the initiative put forward by the Czech Republic to procure ammunition for Ukraine from third countries and allocate EUR 30 million to this end.
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Published March 27, 2024

CAPTION:ULM Art Program students and alumni participated in a Make-a-Thon to create bowls for the Food Bank of NELAs annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser event.

MONROE, LA  This year, ULM Art Programs Coordinator Megan Smith hosted a ceramic bowl-making day to support the Food Bank of Northeast Louisianas Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser.

With the purchase of a ticket to Empty Bowls, attendees will get to take home a handmade bowl to serve as a reminder of the empty bowls in our community. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana. The event was hailed by the Ceramics concentration Bachelor of Fine Arts alumni, and has been supported by ULM for all eight years of the events existence.

This years Make-A-Thon at ULM was attended by ULM alumni Lexi Smith, Nick Pepper, Vivian Graham, Jade Parker, Taylor Barrere, and Clayton Causey.

I have participated in Empty Bowls events since I became a ceramic artist- I believe wholeheartedly that ceramics and philanthropy go hand-in-hand, said Megan Smith, assistant professor of art at ULM. My ceramic work is centered around relationships so bringing together my Ceramic Alumni and celebrating those relationships as well as making bowls for a great cause makes this event near and dear to my heart. Im especially excited to be doing live wheelthrowing demos during Empty Bowls 2024!

Last year, ULM students, faculty, and alumni donated over 100 bowls to the Empty Bowls event.

The Food Banks 8th Annual Empty Bowls event will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at the Monroe Civic Center Arena, and tickets are expected to sell out. Tickets are available at: https://foodbanknela.org/empty-bowls-northeast-louisiana-event/.

The School of Visual and Performing Arts at the University of Louisiana Monroe aims to provide students with the highest level of arts education, research and educational opportunities to majors and minors. VAPA aims to offer curricular,co-curricular and extracurricular opportunities to students enrolled at ULM, as well as provide cultural activities,special events and performances for university, local and area communities.VAPA at ULM offers degrees in various disciplines in art and music as well as experiences in dance and theatre.
The German-Ukrainian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK Ukraine), in partnership with the German Economic Team (GET), has compiled a list for the implementation of reforms in Ukraine aimed at improving the investment climate, attracting foreign business to recovery, including a proposal to unify the criteria of the Build Back Better principle for restoration projects.

"We welcome this investment policy document, the result of a joint effort between AHK Ukraine and the German Economic Team. The recommendations set out in this document serve as a roadmap for realizing this vision, guiding our efforts to implement meaningful reforms and adopt policies that stimulate innovation, entrepreneurship, as well as economic development, First Deputy Prime Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko said.

Thus, priority reforms directly related to the reconstruction processes of Ukraine include changes in the field of construction and infrastructure: legislative definition of the Build Back Better principles, improvement of national standards for the construction of modular shelters.

As analysts note, although numerous restoration projects include the implementation of the Build Back Better principle, its interpretations are not unified among companies and government agencies. It is therefore important to create a common recovery framework and standards that align with this principle to ensure sustainability and inclusion in projects.

"This initiative will also improve the consistency and efficiency of resource allocation and implementation of restoration projects. Construction companies, government agencies, international donors and development organizations will all benefit equally," the document says.

In addition, it is important to improve standards for the rapid construction of modular ground shelters. As the document notes, existing government construction standards for shelters do not take into account modular ground shelters, which is why such objects undergo approval procedures as underground shelters, which cannot be implemented everywhere and the construction of which is longer and more difficult. At the same time, safe ground shelters can be quickly deployed in areas with an increased risk of airborne threats.

Other proposed reforms include the abolition of mandatory work permits for foreign company directors, an increase in the threshold for transfer pricing due to changes in the hryvnia exchange rate, a reduction in HR documentation, and an increase in the deadline for submitting SAF-T files to the State Tax Service.

To create equal conditions for new companies in the field of finance, it is also proposed to implement the general agreements of the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) for commodity markets with cash payments, and the opening of the Affordable Loans 5-7-9% state program for companies with foreign owners.

In addition, it is proposed to extend the validity of grid connection agreements and technical requirements for renewable energy facilities and recognize the EFET (the European Federation of Energy Traders) general agreements for trading in electricity and gas.
Energy holding DTEK, through its EU-focused subsidiary DRI, has entered into an agreement with the Polish company Columbus Energy to build a 133 MW energy storage system in southern Poland.

On March 27, DRI signed a final binding share purchase agreement with the Polish company Columbus Energy, which will give it the right to build a 133 MW battery storage facility in southern Poland, subject to the receipt of permits, DTEK noted in a release on its website on Wednesday.

"The agreement is DTEKs first major infrastructure investment in Poland and a key building block in the companys plan to create a pan-European energy system uniting Ukraine and the EU. DTEKs goal is to build a 5 GW portfolio of renewable energy projects in Europe by 2030, via DRI," the company said.

The acquisition of a project for the construction of a 133 MW energy storage system makes DTEK Group one of the first companies developing this technology on a Polish scale, the release notes.

"DRI expects to close the deal with Columbus in the coming months and break ground at the site in Q4 2024 in order to complete construction and commence operations in early 2026. The project has an obligation to provide energy capacity to the Polish market for 17 years from 2027, having been successful in the 2022 Capacity Market auction organized by PSE, the Polish Transmission System Operator," the report says.

Todays signing marks an exciting moment in Europes aspirations to move beyond fossil fuels. This project will not only provide vital flexibility in Polands journey to a renewable future but will be an important test case for Central and Eastern Europe in demonstrating how battery storage can be deployed successfully. DTEKs investment in the country is a crucial step towards the integration of Ukraine and Polands energy systems, Maksym Timchenko, CEO of DTEK Group, said.
Boston University graduate student workers launched a strike on Monday, demanding better pay, improved health care coverage, and guaranteed childcare subsidies, among other essential needs.

Union Negotiations and Strike Initiation

The Boston University Graduate Workers Union (BUGWU), affiliated with Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 509, has been in negotiations with the university for the past eight months. After failing to reach a satisfactory agreement, grad workers voted two weeks ago to authorize their bargaining team to call for a strike.

BUGWU represents approximately 3,000 grad workers. The strike commenced with a noon rally, marking the beginning of a collective effort to address the longstanding grievances faced by graduate student workers at Boston University.

The key issues driving the strike include demands for fair and livable wages that reflect the high cost of living in Boston. Many graduate students struggle to make ends meet on stipends that fall below the city's living wage standards. Additionally, there is a pressing need for comprehensive healthcare coverage to ensure that graduate student workers have access to essential medical services without facing financial hardship. Moreover, the demand for guaranteed childcare subsidies highlights the challenges faced by graduate student parents in balancing their academic pursuits with family responsibilities.

READ ALSO: California State University Faculty Strike Ends Same Day with Gains in Paid Leave and Other Benefits

Worker Demands and University Response

David Foley, president of SEIU Local 509, expressed frustration with the university's stance in a news release, stating, "BUs conduct continues to signal that they do not value the contributions of the workers that keep this university running." The statement underscored the necessity of providing equitable compensation and sufficient assistance to graduate student workers, pivotal in advancing the university's educational and research missions.

Reacting to the strike, the university released a statement recognizing the indispensable role graduate students play in enriching the university community. However, it also expressed concerns about the potential disruptions caused by the strike and its impact on teaching, research, and student life. The university reiterated its commitment to engaging in constructive dialogue with the union to address the needs of graduate student workers while minimizing disruptions to campus operations.

As negotiations between the union and the university continue, there is hope that both parties will reach a mutually beneficial agreement that addresses the concerns raised by graduate student workers. However, the duration of the strike remains uncertain, and it is essential for both sides to remain committed to finding a resolution that ensures fair and equitable working conditions for all graduate student workers at Boston University.

Increasing Trend of Higher Education Worker Strikes

The strike at Boston University is part of a broader trend of labor activism within the higher education sector. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in strikes among higher education workers, with many workers demanding better wages, improved benefits, and greater job security.

According to a fall report, there were 20 reported strikes among higher education workers between January 2022 and the first half of 2023, representing nearly one-third of all strikes in the past decade. This trend underscores the growing dissatisfaction among workers with the prevailing labor conditions in academia and highlights the need for meaningful reforms to ensure fair and sustainable working conditions for all higher education workers.

RELATED ARTICLE: NYU's Instructors Elect Union, Forming the Largest Non-Tenure Faculty Union in Private Higher Education
Amid job cuts and an alleged lack of transparency, faculty have repeatedly registered their discontent with President Janet Steinmayer. But will it change anything?

Lesley University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, finds itself embroiled in turmoil once again as faculty members express their dissatisfaction with university leadership. The latest vote of no confidence in President Janet Steinmayer marks the third such instance in as many years, highlighting ongoing tensions within the academic community.

Faculty Frustrations

The root of the faculty's discontent stems from a series of cost-cutting measures implemented by university administrators in response to financial challenges. These measures have included significant job cuts, with nearly 50 faculty and staff members affected, as well as a perceived lack of transparency in decision-making processes.

Faculty members have raised concerns about the impact of these cuts on academic programs and student experiences, as well as the broader implications for the university's reputation and mission. They argue that the administration's approach to addressing budgetary issues has been shortsighted and has failed to prioritize the well-being of faculty and students.

READ ALSO: New Mexico State University Launches Fresh Presidential Search Effort After Rejecting Finalists

Repercussions and Responses

The repeated votes of no confidence in President Steinmayer and the Board of Trustees reflect a deepening sense of frustration and disillusionment among faculty members. While such votes serve as a symbolic gesture of disapproval, their practical impact on university governance and decision-making remains uncertain.

University officials have defended their actions, citing the need to address financial challenges and ensure the long-term sustainability of the institution. They argue that difficult decisions, including job cuts, are necessary to navigate a rapidly changing higher education landscape and position the university for future success.

Despite these explanations, faculty members continue to express skepticism and concern about the direction of the university under current leadership. They argue that the administration's focus on cost-cutting measures has come at the expense of academic quality and institutional values, and they call for a more collaborative and transparent approach to decision-making.

Charting a Path Forward

As Lesley University grapples with internal discord and external pressures, the path forward remains uncertain. Resolving the underlying issues that have led to repeated votes of no confidence will require meaningful dialogue and collaboration between university leadership and the faculty.

Key stakeholders must come together to address faculty concerns, rebuild trust, and chart a course that aligns with the university's mission and values. This may involve reassessing budgetary priorities, enhancing communication and transparency, and fostering a culture of shared governance and mutual respect.

Ultimately, the resolution of the current crisis will depend on the willingness of all parties to engage in open and constructive dialogue. Only through genuine collaboration and a commitment to academic excellence and institutional integrity can Lesley University overcome its challenges and emerge stronger as a united and resilient community.

RELATED ARTICLE: Florida Atlantic University's Presidential Search Saga: Stalled Process, Political Intrigues, and the Road Ahead
In a fervent demonstration against the planned 6% tuition increase at California State University (CSU), students and faculty rallied outside the CSU Chancellors Office in downtown Long Beach on March 26. The protest marks a continued battle against the approved tuition hike set to commence in fall 2024.

Voices of Dissent

Amid chants and placards, students expressed their discontent, arguing that the tuition increase threatens the accessibility and affordability of education within the CSU system. Wendy, a CSU Los Angeles student, emphasized, This is our university system, not theirs. We deserve a good, valuable education, an education worth the prestige.

Many students echoed Wendy's sentiments, expressing concerns about the financial burden the tuition hike would place on them and their families. They highlighted the challenges of balancing the rising costs of education with other essential expenses, such as housing and textbooks.

Some students shared personal anecdotes, illustrating the profound impact of tuition increases on their academic pursuits. They emphasized the sacrifices they and their families have made to pursue higher education and underscored the need for accessible and affordable schooling.

READ ALSO: Cal State Faculty Strike Ends Abruptly, Leaving Controversy in the Wake of Tentative Agreement

Confronting the Board of Trustees

Inside the Board of Trustees meeting, select students addressed board members directly, while others remained outside, amplifying their voices with chants audible from within. The protest represents the students second direct confrontation with the board since the tuition hike was approved in September. Faculty members from both the CSU system and local community colleges joined in solidarity with the students, highlighting the broader impact of tuition hikes on education accessibility.

The students urged the Board of Trustees to reconsider the tuition increase and explore alternative solutions to address the budget deficit without burdening students with additional financial strain. They emphasized the importance of prioritizing the needs of students and ensuring that higher education remains accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.

During the meeting, students presented petitions and testimonials outlining the detrimental effects of tuition hikes on their academic journeys. They called for transparency and accountability from university administrators and requested meaningful engagement with student representatives in decision-making processes.

Continued Advocacy

The protest signifies a collective effort to safeguard the affordability and accessibility of higher education within the CSU system. As the Board of Trustees continues its deliberations, the student-led movement remains resolute in advocating for a university system that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of its students.

In addition to protests and demonstrations, students and faculty members are actively engaging in dialogue with university administrators and lawmakers to explore alternative funding sources and policy changes that could mitigate the need for tuition increases. They are also organizing educational campaigns to raise awareness about the implications of rising tuition costs and mobilizing support from the broader community.

The students' advocacy efforts have garnered attention from local media outlets and policymakers, amplifying their message and putting pressure on decision-makers to address their concerns. Despite facing challenges, the student-led movement remains determined to effect positive change and ensure that higher education remains accessible and affordable for all students within the CSU system.

RELATED ARTICLE: Boston University Graduate Student Workers Strike For Better Pay, Improved Healthcare, and Childcare Subsidies
March 27 2024

The University of Edinburgh has taken the next step in the evolution of its King's Buildings Campus with the launch of a consultation to demolish the Darwin Tower (scheduled for September).

New Darwin will see the 10-storey block replaced by a new research and teaching building run by the School of Biological Sciences. Housing laboratories, incubator space and outreach facilities the net-zero-ready facility is promoted as a next-generation bioscience hub, furthering the university's goals in mitigating climate change, healthy ageing and improving food security.

In a statement, the university wrote: "The proposed replacement of the Darwin Tower with a building of a reduced height and more appropriate scale, and higher quality design, akin to the adjacent buildings and landscape will offer significant visual and environmental improvement to the campus, city, and surrounding areas."

The initial consultation will be held today at the Elm Lecture Theatre in the Nucleus Building on Thomas Bayes Road, Edinburgh, between 16:00 and 19:00.

BMJ Architects are taking forward the latest scheme, replacing an earlier design by Fielden Clegg Bradley.
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ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) Chairman WAPDA, Engineer Lieutenant General Sajjad Ghani (Retired), visited the Dasu Hydropower Project on Wednesday to express solidarity with the Chinese engineers and workers serving at the project

He visited there after a terrorist attack near Besham in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing five Chinese and a local on their way to Dasu Hydropower Project site from Islamabad the other day, said a news release.

Chinas Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong together with Chairman Ghani spent time with Chinese workforce at the project site.

At the Construction Camp of China Gezhouba Group Company (CGGC) - Contractor of Dasu Hydropower Project - the Chairman condemning the tragic incident, offered condolence on behalf of WAPDA over the loss of lives.

Our sympathies are with the bereaved families in this time of trial. The law enforcement agencies are vehemently investigating the terrorist incident, and we hope the culprits found involved in it, will soon be brought to justice.

WAPDA is in close coordination with the quarters concerned to further beef up the security arrangements in order to avoid such untoward incident in future he said.

Chairman WAPDA lauded the Chinese firms for their contribution in implementing the projects - that of water and hydropower in particular - crucial for development of Pakistan. The leading Chinese firms are engaged in constructing a number of WAPDA projects including Dasu, destined to provide much needed water and low cost energy for economic stability and social uplift in the country.

We are confident that such cowardly attacks by the enemies of Pak-China friendship are undoubtedly bound to fail in derailing the mutual cooperation meant for stability and progress of Pakistan the Chairman further said.
In the 38th UN report on the human rights situation in Ukraine for the period from December 1, 2023 to February 29, 2024, the organization counted the execution of 32 Ukrainian prisoners of war by the occupiers, which is much more than in any of the previous periods.

Experts conducted interviews with 60 Ukrainian soldiers who were recently released from captivity.

Ukrainian soldiers spoke of terrible treatment in captivity by the occupiers, the inability to communicate with families and the lack of satisfactory food and medical care.

In particular, the Russian military and officials torture prisoners, including using beatings, electric shock, forcing them to remain in an uncomfortable position for a long time, threatening or simulating execution. More than half of the prisoners survived sexual violence.

The report notes that these data confirm that the Russian army continues to use previously established practices of torture, ill-treatment, deaths in captivity, incommunicado detention, forced disappearances and appalling conditions of detention.

"Moreover, during the reporting period, OHCHR received reports of the apparent execution of at least 32 recently captured Ukrainian POWs in 12 separate incidents. OHCHR verified three of these incidents in which Russian servicemen executed seven Ukrainian servicemen hors de combat," the report notes.

The UN also cites interviews with 44 Russian prisoners of war who, although they do not claim torture in official places of detention, gave "credible accounts of torture or ill-treatment in transit places after their immediate evacuation from the battlefield."

In addition, the mission report contains information about the violence of the Russian administration against residents of the occupied territories of Ukraine. This includes the killing of civilians, arbitrary detentions and restrictions on freedom of expression.

According to the UN, the total number of identified civilian casualties in Ukraine remains comparable to the number of casualties in the previous period.
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The Prime Minister offers the deepest condolences to the families of the innocent victims of the attack and assures them that the perpetrators of this barbaric act will be brought to justice swiftly.

ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-March 27th, 2024) Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday instructed for a thorough joint investigation into the terrorist attack on Chinese nationals, utilizing all resources of the state.

He gave these instructions, while chairing an emergency meeting in Islamabad today, in the aftermath of Besham terrorist attack on Chinese nationals working on Dassu Hydel Power Project.

The meeting was attended by the Federal Ministers, Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir, the Chief Ministers, the Chief Secretaries and the Inspectors General of Police of respective provinces. The Participants of the meeting discussed the heinous attack on innocent civilians working on a development project, meant to contribute to energy and water security of Pakistan.

The Prime Minister offered deepest condolences to the families of the innocent victims of the attack and assured them that the perpetrators of this barbaric act would be brought to justice swiftly.

He underscored the enduring bond of brotherhood between the people of Pakistan and China and conveyed that the whole nation was saddened by the loss of Chinese lives.

Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the alacrity with which Law Enforcement Agencies and locals responded to the attack, saving many precious lives which could have been lost.

He further said terrorism is a trans-national threat that has been instrumentalized by the enemies of Pakistan to stymie Pakistan's progress and development.

He added that acts targeting Pakistan-China friendship are particularly aimed at creating mistrust between the two iron brothers.

Participants of the meeting expressed resolute commitment to completely rooting out terrorism from the country.

The participants expressed serious concerns over sanctuaries available to terrorists across the borders and emphasized upon the need for a regional approach for countering terrorism.

On the occasion, Syed Asim Munir reiterated resolve of the armed forces to eliminate the scourge of terrorism afflicting the country. He said the nation had steadfastly fought the war on terror for the last two decades and had defeated the nefarious designs of Pakistan's adversaries.

Noting the recent surge in terrorist incidents, the Army Chief remarked that the enemies of Pakistan have once again underestimated the resilience and grit of the State and the people of Pakistan. He vowed to fight terrorism till every terrorist casting an evil eye on Pakistan, its people and their guests, is eliminated. He further said no stone shall be left unturned to ensure that every foreign citizen, especially the Chinese nationals, contributing to the prosperity of Pakistan, is safe and secure in Pakistan. He said we shall fight terrorism with all our might, to the very end.

The meeting concluded with the participants reiterating the resolve to comprehensively combat terrorism employing all resources available to the State.
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US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller say they are deeply saddened by the loss of life and injuries sustained and share our heartfelt condolences with those affected by the attack.

WASHINGTON: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-March 27th, 2024) The United States has condemned the attack on a convoy of Chinese engineers in Bisham.

During a press briefing, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said they are deeply saddened by the loss of life and injuries sustained and share our heartfelt condolences with those affected by the attack.

The spokesperson said Pakistani people have suffered greatly at the hands of terrorists. He said the Chinese nationals and Pakistan have been the victims of terrorist attacks and no country should suffer the acts of terror.

At least six people including five Chinese nationals were killed after a suicide bomber hit an explosive-laden vehicle into the convoy in Shangla area of KPK.

The president and the prime minister strongly condemned the attack while the security forces vowed to continue fight against terrorism.

China also demanded complete investigation of the attack.
The Clean Energy Expo China 2024 (CEEC-2024), is being held in Beijing from Mar. 26 to 28, featuring exhibitions, forums, seminars and trade fairs

BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) The Clean Energy Expo China 2024 (CEEC-2024), is being held in Beijing from Mar. 26 to 28, featuring exhibitions, forums, seminars and trade fairs.

With an exhibition area of about 50,000 square meters, the three-day expo themed "Clean Energy Helps Build New Power System" has attracted more than 800 entities, among which are international companies including but not limited to Caterpillar, Bureau Veritas, Howden, as well as domestic new energy leaders, cover Trina Solar, JA solar, Huawei, BYD, LONGi, sungrow, and the like.

Exhibits contain wind energy, photovoltaics, hydrogen energy, and energy storage. It is expected that more than 1,000 new technologies, products and application scenario cases will be displayed in three days.

In addition, the China Clean Power Summit, the 2nd New Energy International Cooperation Forum, the International (China-US) Clean Energy Cooperation Forum, the Photovoltaic Market Development Forum, the 2nd China Energy Storage Conference, and the International Hydrogen Energy Technology Innovation Cooperation Forum will be held concurrently, during which 300 experts and entrepreneurs would speak freely to further expand the development space of the clean energy industry, China Economic Net (CEN) reported.

Hydrogen, being the key to the future development of the new energy field, the Hydrogen Energy & Fuel Cells Expo China 2024 will be held at the same time.

As one of the most complete exhibition platforms for the hydrogen industry chain in China, the exhibits cover hydrogen production, storage, transportation, hydrogenation, and use, with the theme of "Hydrogen Energy Helps Plan and Build a New Energy System".

Hydrogen Energy Expo, not only a variety of high-end hydrogenated models such as cars, heavy trucks, bicycles, and tricycles, but also multitudinous application scenarios such as hydrogenation ships, aviation, hydrogen metallurgy, hydrogen methanol, hydrogen alkane, and hydrogen subways would be mushroomed on the trot.

Equipment in all aspects of the industrial chain including the high-flow diaphragm compressor of the 70 MPa hydrogenation station and the integrated mobile hydrogen quality analyzer for fuel cells would also catch the eyes of audience home and abroad in an all-round way.

As a clean, low-carbon, high calorific value, and diverse source of green energy, hydrogen is known as the ultimate energy in the 21st century. The heat of combustion per kilogram of hydrogen is approximately 3 times that of gasoline, 3.9 times that of alcohol, and 4.5 times that of coke.

The 2024 government work report explicitly mentions hydrogen energy for the first time, treating hydrogen as an important direction in cultivating new quality productive forces.

According to statistics from the China Hydrogen Alliance, by 2025, the output value of China's hydrogen energy industry will reach 1 trillion yuan. Green electricity hydrogen production based on wind power and photovoltaics could become a porter of renewable energy to strongly support the realization of China's dual carbon goals.

Taking advantage of excellent opportunity of the rapid development of the global new energy industry, the CEEC 2024 would become an international exchange platform for the entire industry chain of new energy, including hydrogen.

APP/asg
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Israeli forces pounded besieged Gaza on Wednesday in the war sparked by the October 7 attack and fought Hamas around several hospitals despite a UN Security Council demand for a ceasefire

Gaza Strip, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) Israeli forces pounded besieged Gaza on Wednesday in the war sparked by the October 7 attack and fought Hamas around several hospitals despite a UN Security Council demand for a ceasefire.

Talks in Qatar towards a truce and hostage release deal, involving US and Egyptian mediators, have brought no result so far, with Israel and the Palestinian militant group blaming each other.

Tensions have risen between Israel and its top ally the United States over the soaring civilian death toll and dire food shortages in Gaza, and Israeli plans to push its ground offensive into the far-southern city of Rafah, which is packed with displaced civilians.

In heavy overnight bombardment, Israeli strikes again hit Gaza City and Rafah, where a fireball lit up the sky over the city crowded with up to 1.5 million people, most of them displaced by the war.

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said 66 people were killed in overnight bombardment and combat.

Israeli forces have battled militants in and around three Gaza hospitals, raising fears for patients, medical staff and displaced people inside them.

Fighting has raged since last week around Gaza City's Al-Shifa Hospital, the territory's largest, and more recently near two hospitals in the main southern city of Khan Yunis, Al-Amal and Nasser.

The army and Shin Bet security service said they were "continuing to conduct precise operational activities" in both cities "while preventing harm to civilians, patients, medical teams and medical equipment".

The army said dozens of militants have been killed "in the area" of Al-Shifa and "hundreds of terrorists have been apprehended".

Israeli tanks and armoured vehicles have also massed around the Nasser Hospital, the Gaza health ministry said, adding that shots were fired but no raid had yet been launched.

A military spokesperson told AFP "we're operating in the area, but we haven't been inside the hospital".

The Palestinian Red Crescent warned that thousands were trapped inside and "their lives are in danger".

- UN warns of 'man-made famine' -

Gaza has endured almost six months of war and a siege that has cut off most food, water, fuel and other supplies, and the UN has warned that its 2.4 million people are on the brink of a "man-made famine".

The flow of aid trucks from Egypt has slowed amid the war and due to lengthy Israeli cargo inspections.

Donor governments have airdropped food into Gaza where desperate crowds have rushed towards aid packages drifting down on parachutes. At least 18 people have been reported killed Tuesday in stampedes or drowned in the Mediterranean Sea.

Hamas has urged an end to the airdrops and called for stepped-up road deliveries instead.

AFP images on Wednesday showed a military aircraft again parachuting aid packages into Gaza, and the Jordanian military announced "five airdrops" over the territory's north with Egyptian, Emirati, German and Spanish planes.

The war broke out when Hamas launched its unprecedented October 7 attack that resulted in about 1,160 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

The militants also took about 250 hostages. Israel says that, after an earlier truce and hostage deal, about 130 captives remain in Gaza, including 34 who are presumed dead.

Israel's retaliatory campaign has killed at least 32,490 people in Gaza, most of them women and children, according to the health ministry.

Israel also charges that Palestinian militants sexually assaulted October 7 victims and hostages.

The New York Times published the account of the first Israeli woman to speak publicly about having been sexually abused, 40-year-old lawyer Amit Soussana.

Soussana, who was abducted from her home near the Gaza border and released in November, said she was repeatedly beaten and sexually assaulted at gunpoint by her guard inside Gaza.

The non-governmental Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel said on social media platform X that Soussana's "heart-wrenching testimony compels the world to act".

"The Israeli government and world governments must do whatever it takes to bring home" the remaining hostages, it said.

- Death toll 'far too high' -

The UN Security Council on Monday passed its first resolution demanding an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza and the release of the captives.

The United States, which had blocked previous resolutions, abstained, drawing an angry rebuke from Israel as Defence Minister Yoav Gallant was in Washington.

Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin stressed, before meeting Gallant, that "the number of civilian casualties is far too high, and the amount of humanitarian aid is far too low" in Gaza.

Israeli and Hamas envoys have engaged in weeks of indirect talks aimed at halting the fighting, but both sides said this week the talks were failing.

Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari has said that, although the CIA and Mossad chiefs had left Doha, the talks were "ongoing" at a technical level.

Hamas leader Ghazi Hamad charged that Israel "is being intransigent and wants to keep the war going".

"There hasn't been any progress in ceasefire talks or negotiations for prisoners' exchange," he said.

Amid the bloodiest ever Gaza conflict, violence has also surged in the occupied West Bank, where an Israeli raid Wednesday on the northern city of Jenin killed three people.

Israel has also exchanged daily cross-border fire with Hamas ally Hezbollah in Lebanon.

The hostilities, in which Israel has also targeted Hamas militants, have raised fears of all-out conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which fought a devastating war in 2006.

Hezbollah fired a barrage of rockets into northern Israel Wednesday killing a civilian, after Israel carried out a deadly pre-dawn strike in south Lebanon.

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BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) The Taiwan side needs to return to the political foundation defined by the 1992 Consensus if it really intends to resume dialogue across the Strait, said a Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday.

Merely talking about cross-Strait dialogue without relevant actions is unconvincing and devoid of sincerity, said Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, at a press conference.

The spokesperson made the remarks in response to a media query about a public figure in Taiwan who claimed that the mainland had always responded Taiwan's wish to restore cross-Strait dialogue with "the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus."
BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Wednesday emphasized that China and Pakistan were all-weather strategic cooperative partners and iron-clad brother and declared that no attempt to undermine cooperation between the two countries would succeed.

China and Pakistan were all-weather strategic cooperative partners and iron-clad brothers, and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) greatly contributes to the socioeconomic development of Pakistan. No attempt to undermine China-Pakistan cooperation will succeed, Lin Jian said during his regular briefing in response to a question about a terrorist attack causing casualties of five Chinese citizens in Pakistan.

While strongly condemning this act of terrorism, he expressed deep condolences over the loss of lives and extended sincere sympathies to the bereaved families.

He said, after this attack, the Chinese ministry of foreign affairs and Chinese embassy in Pakistan immediately activated emergency response mechanism, swiftly took emergency response, engage in close communication with Pakistan in Beijing and Islamabad and asked to thoroughly investigate the incident as soon as possible, hunt down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

We asked Pakistan to take effective measures to protect the safety and security of Chinese nationals, institutions and projects in Pakistan, he added.

Lin Jian informed that Pakistani side promised to thoroughly investigate this incident and share the progress to the Chinese side in a timely manner and further strengthen the security measures to ensure safety and security of Chinese personnel, projects and institutions in Pakistan.

The spokesperson said, China opposes all forms of terrorism, firmly supports Pakistan in fighting terrorism and will work with Pakistan with even stronger commitment to do everything possible to protect the safety and security of Chinese personnel, projects and institutions in Pakistan.

After the incident, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif visited the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan to convey condolences and sympathies to the bereaved families and the Chinese government.A

He strongly condemned the terrorist attack and said that terrorists attempt to harm Pakistan-China friendship will never succeed.

On the same day, President Asif Ali Zardari, the Foreign Minister, the Interior Minister, and several other political figures strongly condemned the attack and expressed condolences over the lives lost, he added.

He said, the Chinese side has noted that some countries have condemned this terrorist attack and conveyed condolences and sympathies to the Chinese victims, adding, aChina appreciates it.a

China affirms that terrorism is a common enemy of mankind, he said and added, it is a shared responsibility of international community to fight terrorism and ensure that tragedy will not repeat again.

He said, China is working with Pakistan on the follow-up work with all-out effort and asked Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the incident as soon as possible, hunt down perpetrators and bring them to justice.

The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan has reminded Chinese citizens and businesses in Pakistan to closely follow the local security situation, take extra safety precautions, strengthen security measures and do their best to guard against terrorist attacks.

The spokesperson said, the Chinese side will continue to support the economic and social development and improvement of livelihood of Pakistan and deliver concrete cooperation and benefits to the people of two countries.

On March 26, five Chinese and one Pakistani nationals were killed in a terrorist attack on the vehicle of the Dasu Hydropower Project undertaken by a Chinese company in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.

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(@FahadShabbir)

Russian attacks on eastern and southern Ukraine killed at least three people on Wednesday, officials said, as Kyiv called for more Patriot air defence system to battle a surge in missile strikes

Kyiv, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) Russian attacks on eastern and southern Ukraine killed at least three people on Wednesday, officials said, as Kyiv called for more Patriot air defence system to battle a surge in missile strikes.

Moscow has escalated aerial attacks on Ukraine in the past few weeks, targeting key infrastructure -- including power stations -- in retaliation for fatal bombardments of Russia's border regions.

In Ukraine's second largest city Kharkiv, which has been reeling from power outages due to the strikes, officials said aerial bombing and shelling killed at least one person and injured 18 others.

"Four children are among the wounded. Apartment buildings were damaged. The number of victims may increase," the region's governor Oleg Sinegubov said.

President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Ukraine's allies to speed up deliveries of warplanes and air defence system following the strike.

"Bolstering Ukraine's air defence and expediting the delivery of F-16s to Ukraine are vital tasks," he said in a statement on social media.

"There are no rational explanations for why Patriots, which are plentiful around the world, are still not covering the skies of Kharkiv and other cities," he added.

The governor of Ukraine's southern Kherson region, which is partially occupied by Russia, said one woman had been killed in a drone attack on the village of Mykhailivka.

"A 61-year-old local resident was fatally wounded in her own home," the official, Oleksandr Prokudin, wrote on social media. And in the southeastern city of Nikopol, officials said artillery fire killed a 55-year-old man, while a ballistic missile strike on the coastal territory of Mykolaiv left eight wounded.

The Ukrainian air force said Russia had launched 13 drones overnight and that 10 were downed over the Kharkiv region, the neighbouring Sumy region and near the capital Kyiv.

During an online briefing on Wednesday, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called again for urgent deliveries of Western air defence systems he said were crucial in warding off the increase in attacks.

"The peculiarity of the current Russian attacks is the intensive use of ballistic missiles that can reach targets at extremely high speeds, leaving little time for people to take cover and causing significant destruction," Kuleba said.

"Patriot and other similar systems are defensive by definition. They are designed to protect lives, not take them," he said.

Zelensky meanwhile was in the northeastern Sumy region bordering Russia, where he met with soldiers recovering from injuries and visited newly built defence lines.

"I inspected trenches, dugouts, firing and command and observation posts," Zelensky wrote in a social media post. "We are strengthening our defences," he said.

Ukraine has been forced onto a defensive footing in the past few months as it struggles with ammunition shortages amid delays to a $60 billion aid package from Washington.

Its ground forces commander warned last week Russia was gathering more than 100,000 soldiers in advance of what may be a major offensive this summer, as Moscow seeks to press its advantage on the battlefield.

Russia meanwhile announced that its air defence systems had shot down 18 rockets near the border city of Belgorod, which has been regularly targeted by fatal Ukrainian attacks.

The governor of Russia's Belgorod region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, said two people were wounded during the barrage and later drone attack.

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Baltimore, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) Authorities on Tuesday suspended their search for six people missing after a packed cargo ship slammed into a Baltimore bridge, causing it to collapse and blocking one of the busiest US commercial harbors.

"Based on the length of time that we've gone in this search, the extensive search efforts that we put into it, the water temperature... at this point we do not believe that we're going to find any of these individuals still alive," US Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath told a press conference as night fell.

All six people were members of a nighttime construction crew who were repairing potholes on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when disaster struck not long after midnight.

"We're going away from the search and rescue portion to a recovery operation," said Roland Butler, Maryland's secretary of state police.

He said the temperatures and currents were making it difficult for divers to continue working underwater, but that boats would continue patrolling overnight.

Video footage showed the packed container ship slamming into one of the bridge's supports, causing the 1977-built steel structure to collapse like a deck of cards.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said earlier that quick thinking by authorities once the ship issued a mayday call allowed them to stop vehicles from driving onto the bridge.

"These people are heroes. They saved lives last night," he told a press conference.

The FBI and other agencies stressed that there was no known connection to terrorism.

"The preliminary investigation points to an accident," Moore said.

Paul Wiedefeld, the Maryland transportation chief, said the crew working on the bridge was "basically repairing potholes, just so you understand that had nothing to do with a structural issue at all."

President Joe Biden called the collapse a "terrible accident," and pledged to get the port reopened and the bridge rebuilt.

Governor Moore, a rising star in the Democratic party, told CNN that the focus was now to make sure victims' families "can find closure."

Two of the missing workers were from Guatemala, the country's foreign ministry said, while local news outlet The Baltimore Banner reported that Mexican, Salvadoran and Honduran nationals were also among the victims.
A Tunisian court sentenced four people to death and two to life in prison on Wednesday over the jihadist-claimed killing of a secular politician more than a decade ago.

The 2013 murder o

Tunis, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) A Tunisian court sentenced four people to death and two to life in prison on Wednesday over the jihadist-claimed killing of a secular politician more than a decade ago.

The 2013 murder of then opposition leader Chokri Belaid was claimed at the time by militants loyal to the Islamic State group which would go on to launch a spate of extremist attacks in the country.

His killing dealt a blow to the fledgling democracy established after the overthrow of longtime dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in the first of the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011.

Belaid, 48, was a fierce critic of Ennahdha, the Islamist-inspired party that then dominated national politics. He was killed on February 6, 2013 in his car outside his home.

The North African country is now ruled by President Kais Saied who in 2021 staged a sweeping power grab and outlawed Ennahdha, whose leader Rached Ghannouchi is in jail on unrelated charges.

The court's judgement came after 11 years of investigations and was announced on national television in the early hours of Wednesday following 15 hours of deliberation.

The four defendants sentenced to death were identified by Tunisian media as Mohamed El-Akari, Mohamed El-Awadi, Mohamed Amine El-Kasmi and Mohamed Abdellaoui.

Tunisia still hands down death sentences, particularly in "terrorism" cases, even though a de facto moratorium since 1991 means they are effectively commuted to life terms.

Nineteen others received sentences ranging from two to 120 years behind bars over charges including "belonging to terrorist groups" and "premeditated murder".

Five defendants were sentenced to time already served in other cases.

Deputy prosecutor Aymen Chtiba welcomed the sentences, saying "justice has been done".

- Years of violence -

The years after the 2011 revolution saw a surge in Islamist radicalism in Tunisia with thousands of jihadist volunteers leaving to fight in neighbouring Libya as well as Syria and Iraq.

Jihadist attacks in Sousse and the capital Tunis in 2015 killed dozens of tourists and police, although authorities say they have since made significant progress against the extremists.

Jihadists loyal to the Islamic State group also claimed the killing of another left-wing opposition figure, Mohamed Brahmi, six months after Belaid's assassination.

The killings stirred mass protests and a political crisis in which Ennahdha ceded power to a government of technocrats.

The year after, authorities announced that the suspected mastermind of Belaid's assassination, Kamel Gadhgadhi, had been killed in a counterterrorism operation.

Saied, who regularly refers to Belaid and Brahmi as "martyrs", in June 2022 dismissed dozens of judges, some of whom he accused of obstructing the investigations into the 2013 killings.

Last year, the justice ministry set up a special commission to carry out an "in-depth" study of the police and judicial investigations.

- 'First step' -

Belaid's family and their lawyers have over the past decade accused the Ennahdha party and some judges of hindering investigations into the assassination.

They have charged that Ennahdha, when it was the ruling party, was at least lenient towards extremist discourse following the 2011 uprisings.

The victim's brother, Abdelmadjid Belaid, welcomed the court ruling, saying "it's something we had been waiting for".

He spoke to AFP while surrounded by left-wing demonstrators who have gathered weekly in Tunis demanding the truth about the killing.

The brother said it was "a first step set in the right direction" but told AFP he would continue his "fight", in particular against "the manipulation of the case".

"These are only some of the perpetrators," he said, adding that "soon, in another case, there will be others who have a direct relation with Rached Ghannouchi".

The rulings didn't establish any links with the political party.

A few hours after the verdict, Zouhaier Ben Abdallah, the public prosecutor at the Tunis court where the ruling was issued, was dismissed without any explanation being given, according to local reports.

Ennahdha had pushed back against the accusations at the time of the killing, having blacklisting the Salafist movement Ansar al-Charia -- which it initially tolerated in the years after 2011 -- as a terrorist organisation.

In a statement it released Wednesday on Facebook, the Islamist-inspired party welcomed the conclusion of the Belaid trial as a vindication of its repeated denials of any wrongdoing.

It said the court had concluded "with certainty the innocence of the Ennahdha movement", despite "a desire among certain ideological currents and political parties to make false accusations".
UNITED NATIONS, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 28th Mar, 2024) The UN Security Council Wednesday condemned in "the strongest terms" the terrorist attack near Besham in Pakistan's Pakhtunkhwa province in which five Chinese and one Pakistani were killed, while calling for the perpetrators of the "heinous and cowardly" crime to be brought to justice.

"The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the Governments of Pakistan and China, and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured," a press statement issued by 15-member Council said.

The statement said: "The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

"The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice.

"They urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Governments of Pakistan and China, as well as all other relevant authorities in this regard.

"The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed.

"They reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts."

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On the night of March 27, the Russians attacked the territory of Ukraine with Shahed strike UAVs from the territory of Kursk region, the press service of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports.

"In total, 13 enemy drones were used. Ten were shot down in Kharkiv, Sumy and Kyiv regions," the message on the Telegram channel indicates.

Anti-aircraft missile units, mobile fire groups, and electronic warfare systems of the Air Force and the Defense Forces of Ukraine were involved in repelling the air attack.
CANBERRA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) A youth curfew has been imposed in the largest town in central Australia following a series of violent and destructive incidents.

Eva Lawler, chief minister of the Northern Territory (NT), and NT Police Commissioner Michael Murphy on Wednesday announced that, effective immediately, residents of Alice Springs under the age of 18 will not be allowed out between the hours of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. local time for the next 14 days.

It comes in response to unrest in the town that culminated in a violent riot involving up to 150 people on Tuesday evening, sparking calls for a Federal government response to crime in the region.

"The scenes yesterday in Alice Springs were horrific, unacceptable and we never want to see anything like that again in the Northern Territory," Lawler said at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon.

"I'm fed up with this level of crime and anti-social behavior. The community has had enough and so have I."

The curfew will apply to the entire central business district (CDB) of Alice Springs and an additional 58 NT Police officers will be deployed to help enforce it.
HARARE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Mar, 2024) Zimbabwe will intensify monitoring and supervision of all large gatherings during the upcoming Easter Holidays to minimize the spread of cholera.

The country's health ministry said church gatherings in open spaces cannot take place unless there are solar-powered boreholes or bush pump boreholes and sanitation facilities.

Zimbabwe has been battling a cholera outbreak since February last year, with cumulative suspected cases standing at 30,070 as of Monday.
USMs Mississippi Association of Broadcasters Day Connects Students with Industry Professionals

Wed, 03/27/2024 - 09:02am | By: Ivonne Kawas

Leading broadcasters from across the state gathered to meet with and mentor students during the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters (MAB) Day  a highly anticipated professional development event for students in The University of Southern Mississippis (USM) School of Media and Communication.

Students got the opportunity to engage in one-on-one interviews and portfolio reviews with media professionals in the digital journalism, broadcasting, production, and advertising fields. Additionally, they had lunch with faculty and engaged in a panel focusing on the future of media.

Among the professionals attending this years MAB Day were Emily Forrester, news director, WDAM; Tim Walker, vice president and general manager, WDAM; Tai Takahashi, news director, WJTV in Jackson; Rick Boone, news director, WXXV in Gulfport; Brett Schutt, general sales manager, WAPT; and Jacque Harms, vice president and general manager, WTOK.

Hosting MAB Day provides students with the opportunity to network with industry professionals and make connections for future job and internship searches, said Dr. Lindsey Maxwell, associate professor of mass communication and graduate coordinator. By facilitating intentional interactions, students gain direct access to potential industry roles, allowing them to stand out among the top broadcast students in the state as they showcase their work.

Emily Forrester, news director at WDAM, was one of the industry mentors who attended. She engaged in conversations with students and provided an understanding of the type of jobs available in broadcasting.

MAB Day at Southern Miss always offers me the chance to connect with dozens of media students, said Forrester. The day provides real-world conversations on the types of broadcast jobs available and what expectations stations have for potential employees.

Forrester added: The event also allows students to connect a face with a name at a news station. In my opinion, this personalizes the job search process, enabling them to ask questions that prepare them to be ready for interviews.

Raven Payne, a native of Hazlehurst, Miss. pursuing a Digital Journalism degree, reflected on the one-on-one sessions and described the opportunity as a roadmap for growth.

The feedback generously shared by some of the news directors not only honed my skills but also provided a roadmap for growth, said Payne. It allowed me to gain valuable industry perspectives and insights that I wouldnt have otherwise obtained. Additionally, it expanded my network and allowed me to connect with individuals who share the same interest and passion for the industry.

Payne added that to fully leverage this opportunity, students must start preparing and curating their portfolios early on with either classwork or experiential work created by joining organizations like the Student Media Center.

If you dont have any work to show to the professionals, my advice is to use classwork to showcase your general knowledge of media, said Payne. You can also join organizations, such as the Student Media Center, to start creating work beyond the classroom. Your goal should be to gain experience in the field while creating different types of media and content for your portfolio.

Jacque Harms, vice president and general manager at WTOK, pointed out that the data indicates students who engage in internships are more likely to succeed in their initial job roles. He emphasized this during his interactions with students.

Hence, my top advice shared with students was to prioritize internships by clearing their schedules, said Harms. They should focus on cultivating a 'digital-first' mindset, recognizing the importance of understanding the rapid pace and daily deadlines inherent in journalism."

Harms continued by stating that he uses these events as an opportunity to network with potential employees.

School director, Dr. Edgar Simpson and his team work diligently to make the day a learning experience for the students, while introducing broadcasting professionals to potential employees, said Harms. After the one-on-one interviews and portfolio reviews, students are prepared to take their first steps in their careers.
Some of evacuated Donetsk region residents trying to return home, not allowed to bring children back  local authorities

Some of the previously evacuated residents of Donetsk region, including those having children, are trying to return to their households, Head of Donetsk Regional Military Administration Vadym Filashkin has said.

"We can see the dynamics of people returning home. I would like to recall that before the full-scale war the region had a population of 1.9 million people, and now  480,000. [] And dome people are coming back to their households, mainly the private ones, because, as they explain, it is spring, something is growing there, and they have to do the housework. There are cases of people returning to their households," he said on the national telethon on Wednesday.

The local authorities hamper the return of children to the communities where mandatory evacuation of minors is being conducted.

"We do not allow people, whose houses are at the front line, to return there with children, because there were cases of bringing children back to their towns in the Torets community, Kurakhove community, where mandatory evacuation is being conducted. We forbade to return children there," the official said.

According to Filashkin, there are 3,144 children on the Lyman, Kostiantynivka, Selidove, Kurakhove communities, including 23 children in the Toretsk and Kurakhove communities, where mandatory evacuation has been announced.

The military administration officials, the White Angel police unit, and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine conduct the mandatory evacuation, sometimes with the help of Ukrainian soldiers.

Filashkin said there is a growth dynamic in evacuation, however some of the previously evacuated local residents have started to return home.
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.
Enemy uses guided large-caliber ammo for first time to attack Kharkiv, 16 casualties reported  Synehubov

The number of people injured as a result of an enemy attack on Kharkiv on Wednesday afternoon has increased to 16.

"The number of injured has increased to 16 people According to preliminary information, today, the enemy inflicted for the first time a strike on Kharkiv exactly by guided large-caliber ammunition," he said on the Telegram channel.

As reported, at least one person was killed as a result of the attack on a housing area in Kharkiv.
The Greek parliament voted to allow foreign universities to establish and operate branch campuses in the country.

According to U.S. News & World Report, the move was made to encourage Greek students to stay in the country for advanced studies, instead of going abroad for an education. (March 2024)
Top Biden administration officials urged Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to abandon plans to invade the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where more than 1.4 million Palestinian civilians seek safety, as U.S.-Israel tensions brew over Israel's conduct in its six-month-old war against Hamas.

In meetings Monday and Tuesday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel's right to defend itself while reiterating opposition to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's planned ground offensive to target Hamas in Gaza's southernmost city on the border with Egypt.

"Our goal [is] to help Israel find an alternative to a full-scale and perhaps premature military operation that could endanger the over 1 million civilians that are sheltering in Rafah," a senior U.S. defense official told reporters Tuesday, briefing on the condition of anonymity under ground rules set by the Pentagon.

A major ground operation in Rafah would further jeopardize the welfare of Palestinian civilians, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Monday. He added that Blinken underscored to Gallant that "alternatives exist" that would both better ensure Israel's security and protect Palestinian civilians.

Amid a looming famine in Gaza, Austin warned of the "humanitarian catastrophe" in the Palestinian enclave, describing civilian casualties as "far too high" and aid deliveries as "far too low." His remarks echoed Blinken's calls for Israel "to immediately surge and sustain" more aid.

The Netanyahu government has denied accusations by international aid agencies and the United Nations that Israel is blocking aid and provoking famine in Gaza as part of its strategy to root out Hamas.

Similar admonitions were likely being conveyed by White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan. In a sign of potentially complicated talks, Sullivan's meeting with Gallant, originally scheduled for Monday, was extended an extra day.

"They believed it was important to continue the conversation," said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

Sullivan told reporters last week that President Joe Biden himself had warned Netanyahu an invasion in Rafah would be a mistake and urged him to have a "coherent and sustainable strategy" to defeat Hamas.

'Don't do it'

Netanyahu insists that the goal of "total victory" against Hamas cannot be achieved without going into Rafah, where Israel says there are four Hamas battalions composed of thousands of fighters.

Initially, the Biden administration said they would not support a Rafah offensive without sufficient protection of civilians.

Now, they're telling Israel, "Don't do it," said Aaron David Miller, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former U.S. negotiator in Middle East peace talks.

"It's not now a question of making sure that the population is somehow safeguarded," he told VOA. "They just don't want the Israelis to do it."

Despite the pressure piled on Gallant this week, the decision on Rafah would have to be taken by the Israeli War Cabinet, whose members in addition to Gallant include Netanyahu and Benny Gantz, former minister of defense and deputy prime minister, as well as two observers  opposition politician Gadi Eisenkot and Ron Dermer, Netanyahu's close adviser.

Gallant's meetings have been the main high-level consultation mechanism between the U.S. and its ally, as Netanyahu abruptly canceled plans for a visit by a separate Israeli delegation.

That was done in protest of Washington's abstention at the U.N. that allowed the adoption of a Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Netanyahu accused the U.S. of shifting from its prior position of conditioning the cease-fire call on the release of hostages, which the administration denies.

More weapons

Gallant, a security hawk who supports a ground operation in Rafah, had aimed to use his Washington visit to ramp up the transfer of American weapons. In remarks ahead of his meeting with Austin, he said he wants to "ensure Israel's military edge and capabilities."

Israel needs U.S. arms not only for the campaign in Gaza but also to prepare for further escalation in the north of the country with Hezbollah in Lebanon, said Brian Finucane, senior adviser for the U.S. Program at the International Crisis Group. Since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, the two sides have exchanged fire through thousands of rocket and missile launches.

"The U.S. has real leverage here," Finucane told VOA. "The best-case scenario would be if the U.S. actually did use its abundant leverage, both unilaterally and multilaterally, to try to bring about a cease-fire."

While Biden has begun using his diplomatic leverage by abstaining at the U.N., he is unlikely to condition or restrict military aid to Israel as he aims to keep the conflict from spreading.

"The last thing he should want to do is to send an unmistakable signal to Hezbollah and Iran that we're not prepared to back the Israelis, if, in fact, there is an escalation in the Israeli northern border," said Miller.

The most fundamental goal for Biden right now, he said, is reaching a deal in the cease-fire negotiations in Qatar. Hamas says it will release hostages only as part of a deal that would end the war, while Israel says it will discuss only a temporary pause.



US arms for Israel

The U.S. has committed to provide Israel with nearly $4 billion a year in aid through 2028, most of it in the form of military assistance. Approximately $3.3 billion per year is given under the Foreign Military Financing program, funds that Israel must use to purchase U.S. military equipment and services.

Since the Gaza war began, the administration has quietly delivered more than 100 separate foreign military sales to Israel. The arms transfers were processed without public debate because the administration broke up the sales packages in amounts below the threshold that requires them to notify Congress, according to a defense official who spoke to VOA on the condition of anonymity to discuss a sensitive military matter.

Under pressure from Democratic lawmakers, last month the White House released a National Security Memorandum requiring the U.S. secretary of state to "obtain credible and reliable written assurances" from foreign governments that U.S. weapons are used in accordance with international and humanitarian law.

Gallant delivered Israel's required written assurances ahead of the deadline on Sunday. Under the memorandum, the State Department has until early May to formally assess and report to Congress whether those assurances are "credible and reliable." Without it, Biden has the option of suspending further U.S. arms transfers.

So far, Biden has not indicated any willingness to do so. In his call with Netanyahu last week, the president "didn't make threats," Sullivan said. "Each of them recognizes that we are at a critical moment in this conflict."

Jeff Seldin contributed to this report.
Judges overseeing a high-profile human rights trial in Argentina convicted 11 former officials of crimes against humanity on Tuesday, in the first case to focus on the former military dictatorship's overlooked practice of committing sexual violence against transgender women.

The trial at the court in La Plata, a southern suburb of the capital, spanned nearly four years and added new details and insight to previously chronicled atrocities, deepening the nation's understanding of its traumatic history. Transgender plaintiffs took the witness stand for the first time in a series of chilling hearings that put a spotlight both on the suffering of the transgender community and on the widespread tactic of sexual violence under the right-wing dictatorship that ruled Argentina from 1976 to 1983.

Human rights groups estimate that 30,000 people suspected of opposing the military government were abducted, systematically tortured in clandestine detention centers and "disappeared" during the time.

In the highly anticipated verdict, 10 defendants were sentenced to life in prison and one to 25 years in prison for their roles in a scheme of violent repression that included killing, torture, sexual violence and the abduction of children born in captivity, among other alleged crimes that took place across four clandestine detention centers in the province of Buenos Aires. The judges acquitted one former official.

"What is different about this trial is that for the first time in Argentina and in the world, crimes against humanity committed against trans women in the context of state terrorism are condemned," prosecutor Ana Oberlin told The Associated Press. "It was a good verdict, we are more than satisfied."

The military dictatorship promoted traditional Catholic values and viewed LGBTQ Argentines as subversives in the heterosexual society. Even being openly gay could lead to jail.

Tuesday's trial involved 600 victims and testimonies from hundreds of witnesses that dredged up accounts of sexual abuse specifically targeting transgender women, as well as cases of soldiers stealing babies from their detained mothers before handing them over for adoption to members of the dictatorship and their loyalists. A former police doctor who oversaw the births of women in captivity was among those who received a life sentence.

Hundreds of men and women in Argentina have grown up with false identities, oblivious to their true origins as the children of the "disappeared."

Eight of the plaintiffs recounted being raped and tortured in one of Argentina's largest clandestine detention centers known as the Banfield Pit.

The shouts of "Genocidal, genocidal!" erupted in the courtroom packed with survivors and victims' relatives. After the verdict was read out, they wept and embraced. Many held portraits of their disappeared loved ones and posters with the slogan: "There are 30,000" and "It was a genocide."

The verdict comes as far-right President Javier Milei and his vice president, Victoria Villarruel, have challenged the legal reckoning of human rights abuses committed during the dictatorship, an effort that was championed by their left-wing predecessors. Argentine human rights organizations have raised particular concern over Villarruel's family ties to the military and activism for victims of crimes committed by leftist guerrillas in the early 1970s. Victims of the dictatorship view that advocacy as implicitly justifying the state repression that followed.

Villarruel and Milei have publicly cast doubt on the toll of 30,000 disappeared, pointing to an independent commission that could identify only 8,960.

Most of the defendants in Tuesday's trial have already been convicted in other cases and transferred to house arrest because of their age and deteriorating health. They tuned into the hearing by video call. The court ordered the defendants under house arrest to undergo new medical exams to determine if they could go back to prison.

Since the Argentine government in 2004 repealed amnesty laws that protected former soldiers, the country's courts have handed down 321 sentences for crimes against humanity and convicted 1,176 people. The landmark effort to hold military leaders accountable for past abuses continues, with more than a dozen trials still underway in the country.

Activists hailed Tuesday's verdict as a long-overdue step forward for Argentina's transgender rights movement, which gained unprecedented momentum under the socially liberal former President Alberto Fernandez.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will discuss support for Ukraine during talks in Paris next week with French President Emmanuel Macron, the State Department announced Wednesday.

France is among the major military suppliers to Ukraine, which is facing an onslaught of Russian attacks.

President Joe Biden's request for billions of dollars in new U.S. military aid to Kyiv is held up in the House of Representatives, led by the rival Republican Party.

"Secretary Blinken will meet with French President Macron to discuss support for Ukraine, efforts to prevent escalation of the conflict in Gaza and a number of other important issues," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters.

France has advocated for a permanent cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, whereas the United States, Israel's main ally, recently let pass a U.N. Security Council resolution that calls for a cease-fire during the month of Ramadan.

It will be the first visit in nearly two years to France by Blinken, a fluent French speaker who grew up partly in Paris. Macron paid a state visit to Washington in December 2022.

After Paris, Blinken will head to Brussels for talks among NATO foreign ministers ahead of the alliance's 75th anniversary summit in Washington in July.

Blinken will also hold a three-way meeting in Brussels with EU leaders and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who has been seeking to branch out from his country's historic alliance with Russia.

Blinken and the European Union will address "support for Armenia's economic resilience as it works to diversify its trade partnerships and to address humanitarian needs," Miller said.

Armenia was angered last year by Russia's failure to prevent Azerbaijan from retaking the Nagorno-Karabakh region from ethnic Armenian rebels.
Russian media and analysts are reporting a spike in hate crimes and violence against migrants from Central Asia following last weeks terror attack on a Moscow concert hall, which has led to the arrests of seven people of Tajik origin.

Responsibility for the attack, which killed at least 139 people and injured nearly 200, has been claimed by the Islamic State terror group's Afghan affiliate, known as Islamic State-Khorasan, or IS-K, which includes a number of Central Asians in prominent roles.

A market owned by Tajiks in Blagoveshchensk, Amur Region, was torched. Unknown persons beat three Tajik migrants in Kaluga, said Edward Lemon, president of the Oxus Society for Central Asian Affairs in Washington.

Tajiks have reported being evicted without reason. Screenshots have circulated on social media showing taxi riders on apps like Yandex refusing to ride with Tajik drivers. Law enforcement have launched raids across the country to find and detain illegal immigrants, Lemon added. Viral videos are circulating on social media calling for Tajiks to be deported, claiming they are all terrorists and calling for the death penalty to be reintroduced.

Tajiks are not the only victims of the backlash, according to Russian media reports and activists. In Yekaterinburg, security officials have reportedly threatened to fine businesses that refuse to list any Central Asians working for them. Kyrgyzstan has warned its citizens to avoid travel to Russia, while Uzbekistan's External Labor Migration Agency issued a travel advisory outlining security precautions.

While publicly seeking to lay blame for the attack on Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin has behind the scenes been in talks with his Tajik counterpart, Emomali Rahmon, to discuss ways to strengthen counter-terrorism measures. Lemon said that one possible outcome could be the extradition of some Tajik citizens to Russia.

From the Tajik side, my sources say that the government is already hoping to link the attacks to the banned Islamic Renaissance Party of Tajikistan in a bid to crack down on its actual and alleged supporters, Lemon told VOA.

Rahmon will seek to ensure that we don't see mass violence against Tajik migrants in Russia or deportations that could destabilize his regime, he said. Putin needs to tread a tightrope as the Russian economy needs migrants.

Other analysts see Central Asian migrants, who already face a difficult life in Russia despite the vital role they play in the economy, as convenient targets for the publics discontent.

It seems that in the end, everything will only come down to the persecution of migrant workers, said analyst and Gazeta.ru columnist Semyon Novoprudsky.

He told VOA this is happening despite the fact that they are critically important for some sectors of the Russian economy because of a growing shortage of laborers, especially in construction.

Boris Dolgin, a visiting scholar at Estonia's Tartu University, agrees. Instead of truly engaging in terrorism prevention and working in communities where radical ideas can be spread, they chose migrant workers as scapegoats, he said.

Farhod Abduvalizade, a journalist speaking with VOA from Khujand, Tajikistan, pointed out that none of the suspects have been proven guilty. He said many of his compatriots doubt that the real culprits are the battered and bruised men Russian authorities have been parading on TV.

The public is closely watching how events are unfolding because almost every household in Tajikistan has someone working or studying in Russia, he said.

Remittances last year accounted for over 48% of Tajikistans GDP, with most of it from Russia  $5.7 billion, according to the World Bank. Combined, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan received about $25 billion in remittances from Russia, where statistics show more than 10 million Central Asians present in the country.

Central Asian militants in IS-K

University of Pittsburg professor Jennifer Murtazashvili, who has done extensive research in the region, elaborated on the role of IS-K militants from Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

They have used Afghanistan as a playground, she wrote on X. During the war against the U.S., the Taliban also benefitted from these militants, with Tajik and Uzbek fighters participating in attacks against U.S. and allied forces.

These fighters have also skillfully played the Taliban and IS-K off against each other, she said, recalling that militants from Tajikistan took over large swathes of northern Afghanistan in 2021, killing members of the Afghan national security forces. Some recent reports indicate that the Taliban still rely on Central Asians to provide security in the north.

In its latest statement, IS-K denounced the Talibans engagement with Russia, China, Pakistan and other counties, even the United States. Still struggling for recognition as Afghanistans legitimate government, the Taliban claim they are at war with the group.

Central Asia should be worried, Murtazashvili told VOA. The alliance of Central Asian leaders with Moscow makes them look very weak in the eyes of IS-K.

VOA Russian stringer Victor Vladimirov contributed to this report.
Western nations broadly condemned the passage on March 20 of Hong Kongs Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, or Article 23.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the broad national security legislation passed under Article 23 in Hong Kong threatens to further undermine rights and freedoms.

During a press conference on March 25, the Chinese foreign ministrys newly appointed spokesperson, Lin Jian, addressed Western criticism by pointing to what he called the airtight U.S. national security system:

The Ordinance strikes a balance between safeguarding national security and ensuring rights, freedoms and economic growthIt does not at all undermine the high degree of autonomy in Hong KongThe US itself has an airtight national security system, with a large number of laws and unparalleled extraterritoriality. However, it keeps pointing fingers at Hong Kongs Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. This is sheer political manipulation and hypocritical double standards.

That is misleading.

Jians remarks incorrectly draw a parallel between Article 23 and the U.S. legal system. While the U.S. has national security laws, it does not have a law with as wide a scope.

Careful examination of Hong Kongs new ordinance reveals that it is starkly different from U.S. principles and in effect undermines Hong Kongs special status and autonomy.

Hong Kongs constitutional document, the Basic Law, was established in 1997 and provided a legal basis for the One Country, Two Systems policy. It guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms, including equality before the law; freedom of movementfreedom of speech, as well as a high degree of autonomy.

Article 23 undermines freedom of speech and the right to assembly, both of which are fundamental rights protected under the U.S. Constitution and Hong Kongs Basic Law. It broadens the definition of sedition to not requiring incitement of violence for a conviction. That means criticism of the Hong Kong or Chinese government could be defined as sedition.

Besides putting protests and whistleblowing in the crosshairs, the new law also enables the Hong Kong government to attack those who have fled and potentially invalidate their passports.

In addition, Article 23 undermines the One Country, Two Systems principle constitutionalized in Hong Kongs Basic Law by importing the legal terms and vague definitions of mainland Chinas national security law. For instance, the ordinance uses mainland Chinas definition of state secrets, which includes information not officially designated as classified by the government and related to any economic, social, technological or scientific developments.

The law also outlaws any calls for secession or independence. In contrast, the U.S. has seen and not suppressed grassroots secessionist movements in California and Texas. As Polygraph.info has reported, China has allowed, if not encouraged discussion of a U.S. civil war despite criminalizing external influence in Hong Kong.

The ordinance introduces the concept of external influence, which lacked a clear definition or examples of activities with foreign individuals and/or foreign organizations that would violate national security. Instead, like many of the other crimes listed, the precise meaning of external influence remains vague.

The new ordinances dangerously broad scope can also be seen when it comes to Hong Kongs autonomy and fundamental rights in its implementation. Within a day of Jians statement, the law changed the early release process for those imprisoned on national security charges. Because of the new law, an activist known as "Captain America 2.0" was denied an early release on March 26.

It should be recalled that the 2020 national security law led to mass arrests. The Hong Kong Free Press reported in April 2023 that 249 people had been arrested on suspicion of endangering national security. The South China Morning Post similarly found in July 2023 that three years after the first round of security laws, there had been over 160 prosecutions on national security grounds.

For its part, Article 23 denies those arrested rights protected both by the U.S. and Hong Kong Basic Law. It allows detainment for 16 days without charges and denial of a lawyer for 48 hours. In contrast, law enforcement in the U.S. can jail an individual for only 72 hours without evidence and must respect a persons right to an attorney.

It is worth noting that China previously tried to pass a sedition law in Hong Kong in 2003 but had to abandon its efforts after mass demonstrations. The 2020 national security law has restricted protest to such an extent that the shelved sedition law is now essentially in effect.

In August 2022, the Chinese foreign ministry wrote on its website that since adopting the 2020 national security law, Hong Kong had moved from chaos to stability, a change supported and applauded by the Hong Kong residents. Opinion polls show that over 70 percent of Hong Kong residents are satisfied with the implementation of the National Security Law for Hong Kong 

Yet recent public opinion data polls found 57% of those under 35 in Hong Kong see Chinas power and influence as a major threat.

The Chinese state-sponsored media outlets Global Times and China Daily have echoed the misleading and false claims propagated by Chinas foreign ministry spokesperson. They have also tried to dismiss concerns that classifying economic developments as state secrets and criminalizing association with foreign organizations will harm Hong Kongs market and status as an international trade hub.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the location of the 117th separate territorial Defense Brigade as part of a working trip to Sumy region, his press service reports.

The Head of State listened to the reports by commander of the Siversk operational and tactical grouping Major General Dmytro Krasylnykov and commander of the brigade Colonel Maksym Aksamytovskyi on the operational situation in the area of responsibility of the brigade and interaction with neighboring units.

The commander of the 117th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade reported on the ratio of forces, equipment and weapons, informed about the peculiarities and dynamics of the enemy's use of guided aerial bombs. During the meeting, the President and the commanders discussed the necessary means of countering this type of weapon.

Zelenskyy was briefed on the organization of defense across three lines of defense. The current needs for weapons and equipment were discussed.

The Head of State also inspected the command post of the brigade, in particular, the support forces department, air defense department, and decision-making center. The President spoke to the defenders of Ukraine and thanked them for their daily service during the war.

The President awarded servicemen of the Territorial Defense Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the State Border Guard Service and the National Guard with the Orders of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, III class, the Orders For Courage, III class, medals For Military Service to Ukraine and To the Defender of the Motherland.
China said Wednesday it had asked Pakistan to "speed up the hunt" for those behind the previous day's terrorist attack that killed five Chinese workers and their local driver.

The foreign ministry spokesman told a news conference in Beijing that both countries were working closely to ensure "effective steps" were taken to protect the safety and security of Chinese personnel in Pakistan.

Lin Jian said that Islamabad "promised to thoroughly investigate the incident, provide timely updates on the progress of the investigation, (and) strengthen security measures for Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions."

A suicide bomber rammed his explosives-laden car into a convoy of Chinese engineers in a mountainous northern Pakistani district on Tuesday, killing five of them and their local driver.

No group claimed responsibility for the bombing, though Islamabad suspected militants linked to the outlawed Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, were behind it. The TTP, a globally designated terrorist group, denied its involvement in the attacks, saying it targets only Pakistani security forces.

"China firmly supports Pakistan in fighting terrorism," Lin said, adding that the two countries " have the resolve and capability to make the terrorists pay the price." He reiterated that Beijing and Islamabad "are all-weather strategic cooperative partners" and "no attempt to sabotage" the cooperation "will ever succeed."

The victims of Tuesday's suicide bombing were working on the Chinese-funded multibillion-dollar Dasu Dam in the Kohistan district on the Indus River, the biggest hydropower project in Pakistan.

The attack was the second on Chinese engineers associated with the project. In mid-2021, a suicide car bombing targeted a bus convoy in the area, killing nine Chinese nationals and three Pakistani co-workers.

In Islamabad, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired an emergency security meeting Wednesday to discuss Tuesday's "heinous attack" and vowed "to bring to justice swiftly" the perpetrators, his office said.

The statement said, "The acts targeting Pakistan-China friendship are particularly aimed at creating mistrust between the two iron brothers."

US Reaction

The United States also condemned Tuesday's attack in Pakistan.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and injuries sustained and share our heartfelt condolences with those affected by the attack," Mathew Miller, the State Department spokesman, told reporters in Washington.

"I'll note that PRC (People's Republic of China) nationals in Pakistan have also been the victims of terrorist attacks, and no country should suffer the acts of terror," Miller added.

Beijing and Islamabad have close economic and defense ties. In recent years, China has invested billions of dollars in Pakistan to build road networks, power plants, and the deep-water Arabian Sea port at Gwadar in southwestern Baluchistan province.

The collaboration is taking place under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC, an extension of President Xi Jinping's global infrastructure program, the Belt and Road Initiative.

Pakistan has recently experienced a dramatic surge in terror attacks that officials allege stem from TTP sanctuaries in Afghanistan. Islamabad says the violence has intensified since the Islamist Taliban reclaimed power in the war-ravaged neighboring country.

Earlier this month, Pakistani warplanes bombed TTP hideouts inside Afghan border provinces. Islamabad defended the military action, saying diplomatic efforts to pursue the Taliban to rein in the terrorists did not work.

Separatist insurgents have lately also stepped-up attacks against security forces in Baluchistan.

Over the past week, insurgents stormed a key government complex in Gwadar and assaulted a significant Pakistan Navy aviation base in nearby Turbat district. Several Pakistani security personnel and around a dozen assailants were killed in both attacks.


Chinese leader Xi Jinping told visiting Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on Wednesday that attempts to restrict China's access to technology will not stop the country's advance.

The Netherlands imposed export licensing requirements in 2023 on the sale of machinery that can make advanced processor chips. The move came after the United States blocked Chinese access to advanced chips and the equipment to make them, citing security concerns, and urged its allies to follow suit.

An online report from state broadcaster CCTV did not mention the chip machinery, but quoted Xi as saying that the creation of scientific and technological barriers and the fragmentation of the industrial and supply chains will lead to division and confrontation.

"The Chinese people also have the right to legitimate development, and no force can stop the pace of China's scientific and technological development and progress," Xi said, according to CCTV.

Dutch company ASML is the world's only producer of machines that use extreme ultraviolet lithography to make advanced semiconductors. In 2023, China became ASML's second-largest market, accounting for 29% of its revenue as Chinese companies bought up equipment before the licensing requirement took effect.

Rutte, speaking to journalists after his meeting, declined to go into specifics of the talks.

"What I can tell you is that ... when we have to take measures, that they are never aimed at one country specifically, that we always try to make sure that the impact is limited, is not impacting the supply chain, and therefore is not impacting the overall economic relationship," he said.

The Dutch leader, who was accompanied by Trade Minister Geoffrey van Leeuwen on the trip, said the top issue for him in their meetings with Xi and Chinese Premier Li Qiang was the war in Ukraine.

China has taken a neutral position on the war, providing Russia with diplomatic cover and economic support through trade. That stance has angered and frustrated much of Europe, which sees Russia as the aggressor and Ukraine as the victim.

Rutte said it's important for China to understand that "this is a direct security threat for us, because if Russia will be successful in Ukraine, it will be a threat to the whole of Europe. It will not end with Ukraine."

He added that he had asked China's leaders "to put their considerable weight  and they can do that as far as I'm concerned in a very discreet way  but as much as possible on Russia to influence the course of events."

ASML, the Netherlands' largest company, recently threatened to leave the country over anti-immigration policies that may impact the company's ability to hire talent, leaving government officials scrambling to ensure that the firm does not leave.

Van Leeuwen said this week in an interview with The FD, a Dutch business newspaper, that protecting the interests of ASML is a top priority but acknowledged that national security comes before economic interests.

Beijing has repeatedly accused the U.S. of trying to hold back China's economic development by restricting access to technology. In response, Xi has launched a campaign to develop home-grown chips and other high-tech products.

"China always opposes the U.S. overstretching the concept of national security and making various excuses to coerce other countries into imposing a technological blockade against China," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said in January.

Rutte said that NATO and its growing ties with Asia did not come up at Wednesday's talks. He is a leading candidate to be the next head of the alliance, which China has criticized for provoking regional tensions and making diplomatic forays into the Asia-Pacific region.
Ukraine was the focus of a high-level delegation from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in Washington this week. In an interview with VOA Georgian Services Eka Maghaldadze, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said there should be no Plan B when it comes to Ukraine, because its failure would mean the failure of democracy.

The following has been edited for length and clarity.

VOA: You visited Washington this week, together with your colleagues from Latvia and Lithuania, to discuss Russias war in Ukraine and the threats for European security with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Why?

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna: Talking about Ukraine is very important. Its the main topic. ... NATO is the only working security guarantee for Ukraine and for the whole region. We discussed how we can move forward with supporting Ukraine, and [how] we can also use frozen Russian assets to help Kyiv. Estonia increased our defense spendings up to 3.2% of our GDP. We increased taxes, but the society is supportive, knowing whats at stake. The war can come to our territories as well.

VOA: The U.S. approved $228 million in military and defense aid to the Baltic States. What concerns did you share with Secretary Blinken, and what assurances did you get from the Biden administration?

Tsahkna: A big portion of the money from U.S. aid is coming back to U.S. industries and economy, because we buy from the U.S. ... Europe is doing its share, increasing defense spending, but we cant carry alone the burden of European security. U.S. leadership is crucial for us. Its a matter of image, as well. I really do hope that the aid package for Ukraine will pass in Congress soon.

VOA: With U.S. aid on hold and widespread concern among Ukraines supporters that the U.S. and the West are not giving Kyiv what it needs to win, what signal does it send to Moscow? Do you think there is a political will and readiness for Ukraines victory?

Tsahkna: Ukrainians are fighting because this is an existential fight. Because [Russian President Vladimir] Putin doesn't want to have peace right now. He wants to destroy all the nation as a country. This is something crucial. We must understand that any idea or initiative [for peace talks] without Ukraine will be a trap. Putin needs this kind of initiative just to show that he's strong and we are weak. This is a trap.

We need to actually define the goal, not for Ukraine [but] for us as well. Were not saying clearly that we need to win the war, or what the victory is. ... We cant just finish with some kind of a cease-fire. ... We have to take away the will of aggression from Putin or Russia.

VOA: Throughout your visit to Washington, youve been asked several times, What if Ukraine fails? What would it mean for you? Do you prepare for such a scenario?

Tsahkna: No. We are not preparing for Plan B, because we have to invest in Plan A. ... And for us, the plan is very, very easy. It's very simple. Just give Ukraine what they ask. They don't ask [for] boots on the ground to fight with Russia. They ask for ammunition, weapons, money.

I don't believe in the threat that Putin will use nuclear weapons, because during the last two years, every time we do something new, every time we give a new level of weapons, ammunition, Putin has said that would be an escalation. But actually, nothing happened. He's just killing Ukrainians. He's actually breaking all the laws and all the rules we have created after the Second World War.

So, we must understand this: There is no Plan B if we are failing together with Ukraine. ... We are failing as democracies. But we are investing in Plan A and in our defense. We understand that Russia will remain a threat.
Russia has been intensifying its efforts to project power on the African continent, partly by increasing military deployment and ramping up its propaganda campaign.

CAR recently agreed to host a Russian military base and the two countries are discussing where it will be located, Russian ambassador to CAR Alexander Bikantov told Russias state-owned TASS news agency on March 26.

TASS cited CAR presidential adviser Fidele Gouandjika as saying that that infrastructure facilities in Berengo, 80 kilometers west of the countrys capital, Bangui, were capable of housing up to 10,000 troops.

In January, TASS quoted Gouandjika as saying the government had already provided a plot of land in Berengo, a place 80 kilometers west of the countrys capital, Bangui, for a Russian base.

In 2019, CNN reported that mercenaries from Russias Wagner private military company were headquartered in Berengo on the grounds of a now dilapidated former presidential palace.

On March 20, Sputnik Africa, a Russian state-owned news agency, quoted Simplice Sarandji, the President of the Central African National Assembly, as saying that thanks to Russian security support, "peace returns to the Central African Republic.

That is misleading.

The hostilities in CAR are ongoing, with some 10,000 children fighting in armed conflicts among various rebel groups. Russias involvement with CARs leadership is replete with corruption, misappropriation of natural resources, mass violence and human rights abuses.

In February, CARs Ministry of Family and Gender estimated that armed groups continue to exploit some 10,000 children recruited as fighters, spies, messengers, cooks and even used as sex slaves.

Since Russia deployed Wagner mercenaries to CAR in 2018, Russian officials have misleadingly referred to them as Russian instructors.

Russia has designed a disinformation and propaganda ecosystem targeting the African continent to advance Moscows interests, the U.S. State Department said in a February 8 report titled The Wagner Groups Atrocities in Africa: Lies and Truth.

Wagner Group forces have reportedly razed entire villages and murdered civilians in the Central African Republic to advance their economic interests in the mining sector, participated in the unlawful execution of people in Mali, raided artisanal gold mines in Sudan, and undermined democratic institutions in every country where they have worked, the report said.

Analysts, investigative journalists and rights watchdogs echo the State Departments assessment of Russias corrosive activities in CAR and other African countries

"Russian actions in Africa seek to destabilize the continent. Moscow is conducting a neo-imperialist campaign that belies its endless propaganda claims of anti-colonialism. With military bases and troop deployments in Africa, the Kremlin intends to change the regional and international order for its benefit," Stephen Blank, a senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, wrote in a March 18 analysis published by the Jamestown Foundation, a Washington, D.C. think tank.

In December 2022, a joint investigation by Belgian newspaper De Standaard, the media network European Investigative Collaborations (EIC), and the All Eyes on Wagner project concluded that in exchange for military support to the government in the CAR, the Russian Wagner Group gets access to precious raw materials.

On March 8, the U.S. imposed sanctions on Bois Rouge SARLU, a CAR-based timber company, for its ties to Wagner, and Broker Expert, a company based in St. Petersburg, Russia, for its support of Bois Rouge.

According to the U.S Treasury Department, the two entities sought to benefit financially "from illicit natural resource extraction and provided material and financial support to the Wagner Group and other organizations" tied to Wagner.

In February, the International Crisis Group reported that despite the CAR armys efforts, the security situation in the country remains precarious, with armed skirmishes, kidnappings, burning of houses and seizure of properties and killing of civilians regularly occurring throughout the country.

Apart from propagating a positive image of Russias role in the region, the Kremlin is providing significant financial support to local actors to intensify its anti-U.S. propaganda and disinformation, including by organizing protest rallies, like an anti-U.S. caravan held in CARs capital Bangui on February 26, the International Crisis Group said.

The Human Rights Foundation, HRF, a multinational rights watchdog, reported last August that Russian activities in CAR have exacerbated long-running lawlessness, corruption, violence, and human rights abuses with total impunity after President Faustin-Archange Touadera in December 2017 turned to the Kremlin to supply light weaponry to the countrys shambolic military, which was embroiled in a protracted [fight] against rebel groups.

HRF wrote: From advising Touadera to operating commercial businesses and concessions in brewery, forestry, and mining to cultivating pro-Kremlin and anti-Western views in public opinion, operatives linked to [Russian President] Vladimir Putins regime have achieved an unmatched level of influence in the countrys affairs.

On January 15, a U.N. peacekeeper was killed and five others injured in an explosion in CARs Ouham-Pende Prefecture. Despite peace efforts and deployments of U.N.-mandated peacekeeping forces, the CAR government still does not control large parts of the country, where rebel groups establish their own rules and operate with impunity.

Over the past two years, the U.S. has provided more than $300 million of humanitarian, development and security assistance in support of finding long-term stability and peace for the people of CAR.
France has evacuated some 240 people from violence-wracked Haiti on French army helicopters, its foreign ministry said Wednesday.

"More than 170 French nationals and around 70 people of European and other nationalities in a vulnerable situation" were airlifted out, it said in a statement.

They have all been taken to a "navy boat that will ferry them today to Fort-de-France" in the French overseas territory of Martinique, it said.

Some 1,100 French citizens live in Haiti, many of them holding dual nationality, according to the foreign ministry.

Paris first announced the flights on Sunday, saying people wanting to leave should contact the embassy in Port-au-Prince.

Port-au-Prince has been rocked by street battles that erupted in late February, prompting the resignation earlier this month of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. His departure, a key demand by an alliance of armed gangs that now control most of the capital, has not lessened the violence.

Haitians are suffering serious food shortages during the wait for a transitional government to be formed.
Members of a transitional presidential council who will be responsible for selecting a new prime minister issued their first official statement on Wednesday, pledging to restore "public and democratic order" in Haiti.

The statement, although signed by eight members of what is supposed to be a nine-member council, is still considered a sign that a contentious and drawn-out nomination process is ending and that the council might soon assume its official duties.

"We are determined to alleviate the suffering of the Haitian people, trapped for too long between bad governance, multifaceted violence and disregard for their perspectives and needs," they said.

The members noted that as soon as the council is officially installed, it will help "put Haiti back on the path of democratic legitimacy, stability and dignity."

The statement was issued nearly a month after gangs began targeting key government infrastructures across Port-au-Prince. They burned police stations, shot at the main international airport, which remains closed, and stormed Haiti's two biggest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

Scores of people have been killed, and 17,000 have been left homeless.

The violence, which has subsided somewhat, has recently been focused on downtown Port-au-Prince.

The council members pledged to "execute a clear action plan aimed at restoring public and democratic order through the restoration of the security of the lives and property of the population, the relief of poverty and the achievement of free elections as well as the reforms necessary to the progress of the nation."

The members said they have developed the criteria and mechanisms to choose a council president, a new prime minister and a ministerial cabinet.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who remains locked out of Haiti, has said he will resign once the council is formally established.

"We are at a crucial turning point that calls us to unity. It is imperative that the entire nation comes together to overcome this crisis for the well-being of all and a future better for our country," the council members said.

Those who signed the statement were Fritz Alphonse Jean, with the Montana Accord group; Leslie Voltaire with Fanmi Lavalas; Louis Gerald Gilles with the December 21 Agreement political group, which is allied with Henry; Laurent Saint-Cyr with the private sector; Edgard Leblanc Fils with the January 30 political group; Emmanuel Vertilaire with the Pitit Desalin party; Augustin Smith with the EDE/RED political party; and Frinel Joseph as one of two nonvoting observers.

Smith recently replaced former nominee Dominique Dupuy, a UNESCO ambassador, who announced Sunday that she was resigning following political attacks and death threats.
Police in the Indian capital detained dozens of opposition supporters on Tuesday as they attempted to march to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence to protest against last week's arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Kejriwal, a key opposition leader whose Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has governed the national capital territory for a decade, was arrested by the financial crime-fighting agency on corruption charges relating to the city's liquor policy, weeks before India begins voting in general elections on April 19.

He was remanded to the custody of the Enforcement Directorate until March 28, with the lawyer for the agency arguing he was the "kingpin" in the case and needed to be interrogated.

Kejriwal's party, all of whose main leaders are now imprisoned in connection with the case, says he has been "falsely arrested" in a "fabricated case." The federal government and Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) deny political interference.

On Tuesday, Kejriwal's supporters attempted to march to Modi's residence, but were stopped by police at a location where they gathered about 5 km (3 miles) away.

Television visuals showed several protesters sitting on the ground and chanting slogans as police personnel tried to haul them onto buses.

Elsewhere in the city, police used water cannons to disperse BJP supporters trying to march to the Delhi Secretariat to demand Kejriwal's resignation and detained some of them.

"The chief minister of Delhi is corrupt and dishonest. ... He will have to resign," state BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva told news agency ANI.

AAP leaders said Kejriwal would not resign and protests demanding his release would continue.

"I want to tell the federal government, this fight, this movement, will not stop because of the force of your police. This voice is reaching the entire nation," Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai told reporters.

Multiple metro stations were closed "until further notice" due to "security reasons," the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation said on X Tuesday morning.

The Delhi police issued a notice warning traffic would be affected "in view of special Law & Order arrangement" in the city.

AAP is part of the INDIA bloc, an alliance of more than two dozen political parties formed last year to jointly challenge the BJP in the general elections.

The group plans to hold a joint rally in Delhi on March 31 to protest against Kejriwal's arrest, hoping to renew their unity after bickering and failed attempts at sharing seats to field common candidates against the BJP.

The arrest of the high-profile Kejriwal, whose party also rules the northern Indian state of Punjab, has drawn international attention, with Germany and the U.S. appealing for a "fair" and "impartial" trial in the case in line with "basic democratic principles."
U.S. federal safety investigators say they have recovered the data-recording black box from the cargo ship that crashed into a Baltimore bridge. Also, divers on Wednesday recovered the remains of two of the six workers who plummeted into the Patapsco River when the span collapsed.

Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board are hoping the data box will help answer why the Dali freight vessel lost power shortly after setting sail for Sri Lanka in the early morning darkness Tuesday and then minutes later crashed into one of two main support pillars for the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said investigators are also planning to interview the ship's crew, which sent out a mayday distress call shortly before the collision with the bridge, a warning that gave police and transportation officials moments to block motorists from driving onto either end of the bridge.

The workers, from Mexico and several Central American countries, had been filling potholes on the major U.S. eastern seaboard highway running across the bridge. A large portion of the fallen bridge landed atop the bow of the freighter, but efforts to untangle the debris have yet to start.

Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace told CNN that local, state and federal dive teams will begin the process of underwater mapping of the accident area on Wednesday.

The disaster has forced the closure of the Baltimore, Maryland, port, one of the busiest in the United States, stopping freight shipments in and out of the city, as well as cruise ship vacations.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said closure of the port would have a "major and protracted impact to supply chains." The Port of Baltimore handles more automobile freight than any other U.S. port  more than 750,000 vehicles in 2022, according to port data.

President Joe Biden vowed Tuesday that the bridge would be rebuilt as quickly as possible and that the federal government would pay for it, but some analysts say that it could be at least a year before a new bridge is completed.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said ending the rescue effort for the missing workers before darkness set in Tuesday evening was a really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day. The governor said authorities at the federal, state and local levels will use every resource available to find their remains.

The Guatemalan foreign affairs ministry issued a statement late Tuesday saying two of the workers were Guatemalan nationals  a 26-year-old from the Peten region and a 35-year-old from the Chiquimula area.

A nonprofit organization that provides services to the Baltimore immigrant community says one of the missing workers was from El Salvador, had lived in Maryland for 19 years and was married with three children. News outlets identified the other workers as being from Mexico and Honduras.

Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association, the organization that represents workers responsible for steering seagoing vessels, said the Singapore-flagged Dali container ship had a "total blackout" of engine and electrical power minutes before the collision.

Video showed the bridge quickly collapsing into the river after the Dali collided with a support column. The vessel, 48 meters wide and 300 meters long, was loaded with cargo containers.

Synergy Marine Group, managers of the Dali, issued a statement saying that all 20 of its crew members and the two Maryland harbor pilots on board were accounted for and there were no reports of injuries on board the vessel.

U.S. news outlets are reporting an inspection of the Dali last year at a port in Chile found that the vessel had a deficiency related to "propulsion and auxiliary machinery."

The inspection, conducted on June 27 at the port of San Antonio, specified that the problem concerned gauges and thermometers. A later inspection, however, found no defects.

Singapore's Maritime and Port Authority said in a statement that the vessel passed two separate foreign-port inspections last June and September. It said a faulty fuel pressure gauge was rectified before the vessel departed the port following its June inspection.

The 47-year-old, 2.5-kilometer-long Francis Scott Key Bridge was a major link in the interstate highway that circles the city of Baltimore. Biden said 30,000 vehicles crossed the bridge on a typical day.

The bridge was named after Francis Scott Key, the writer of The Star-Spangled Banner, a poem later set to music to eventually become the U.S. national anthem.

Key was inspired to write the poem after witnessing the British bombardment of a major U.S. military fort in Baltimore in 1814 during the war that began in 1812.
In a reversal, Israel agreed Wednesday to send its war strategists to Washington to discuss its intention to launch a ground assault on Hamas militants in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

On Monday, Israel had called off the trip in protest against the U.S. refusal to veto a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war.

The United States, Israels staunchest ally in the nearly six-month war, abstained from this week's U.N. vote after vetoing similar resolutions earlier. That drew a rebuke from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, evidence of a growing split with Washington over the Jewish states conduct of the war.

But even as Netanyahu called off a trip by one set of his war strategists, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant was in Washington for talks this week with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Netanyahu has said a Rafah attack is necessary to erase any Hamas control of Gaza, the narrow enclave along the Mediterranean Sea. But the U.S. has told Israel it is opposed to a Rafah invasion, especially since more than a million Palestinian civilians are sheltered there in makeshift tents and structures.

Israel has said it will move the Palestinians to safety before any attack on four Hamas battalions based in Rafah, but it has not indicated where it will send them.

While maintaining that the U.S. abstention was very, very bad, Netanyahu told visiting U.S. Republican Senator Rick Scott that his initial cancellation of the Israeli delegations trip was a message first and foremost to Hamas: Dont bet on this [United Nations] pressure [for a cease-fire]. Its not going to work.

Netanyahu said the Security Council vote encouraged Hamas to take a hard line and to believe that international pressure will prevent Israel from achieving its war aims. Israel has vowed to keep fighting until the Hamas military is destroyed and the remaining 100 or so hostages it is holding are freed.

The White House said that it was a good thing to hold more talks with Israeli officials and that a date was being discussed.

Hezbollah rocket strikes

On the war front, Hezbollah militants in Lebanon launched rockets Wednesday at northern Israel in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes that killed seven people in southern Lebanon.

Israeli emergency services said one person was killed by a rocket strike in the border town of Kiryat Shmona.

The Israeli military said its strikes in Lebanon targeted a military building, killing a member of the al-Jamaa al-Islamiya militant group who had promoted terror plots directed at Israel.

An al-Jamaa al-Islamiya official said seven people were killed in the village of Hebbariye, with Lebanese security sources confirming the death toll.

Israels military also reported Wednesday that it had conducted ground operations near the Shifa Hospital in northern Gaza, while carrying out airstrikes and ground fighting in the Khan Younis area in Gazas southern reaches.

Efforts to temporarily halt the fighting, with proposals that included the release of hostages held in Gaza and a surge of humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians, appeared no closer to reality even after last Fridays U.N. Security Council resolution demanding a cease-fire.

Indirect talks featuring negotiators from the United States, Egypt and Qatar have gone on for weeks, and while officials signaled some progress during the process, the Israeli and Hamas sides this week have shown no movement toward an agreement.

A senior Israeli official told Reuters on Tuesday that Israel had recalled its negotiators from Qatar after reaching "a dead end" in talks to release the hostages still held by Hamas. Israel believes more than 30 other Israelis taken in the shock October 7 Hamas attack on Israel have died or been killed. Netanyahu has said Hamas is making delusional demands.

Hamas officials said Monday that they had told negotiators Hamas would not alter its proposal, which includes a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and an exchange of hostages held in Gaza for prisoners held by Israel.

In Tel Aviv, about 300 family members of hostages and their supporters gathered Tuesday outside the Israeli defense headquarters, demanding that a deal be reached on releasing the hostages. Some of the protesters locked themselves inside cages and held placards with photos of their loved ones.

The October 7 Hamas attack killed 1,200 people and led to the capture of about 250 hostages. More than 100 were released in November during a weeklong cease-fire.

The Health Ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip says more than 32,400 people have been killed during Israel's counteroffensive. The total includes Hamas fighters and civilians, with the ministry saying two-thirds of the dead have been women and children.

VOA U.N. Correspondent Margaret Besheer and White House Correspondent Anita Powell contributed to this report. Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
Israel pulls out of the Qatar cease-fire talks following the UN resolution demanding a cease-fire in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to press ahead with Israels offensive. He blasted a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for a pause to the fighting, saying Tuesday that it had emboldened Hamas to reject a separate cease-fire proposal. We talk with University of California San Diego professor Michael Provence about the situation. A bridge in the U.S. city of Baltimore collapses after a freighter slams into it. And, handwritten letters are making a comeback. But theyre not written by hand.
Poland to double its contribution to Czech initiative on purchase of ammunition for Ukraine  FM

Poland will double its contribution to the Czech initiative to purchase artillery ammunition for Ukraine from third countries, Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said.

According to RMF24, Sikorski announced this decision during a visit to Riga.

The head of the Polish Foreign Ministry said that Poland and Latvia speak with one voice on Ukraine and share an assessment of the geopolitical situation in the region. He added that both countries are leaders in providing assistance to Ukraine, which is repelling the Russian invasion.

Regarding Ukraine's support, Sikorski said that Poland would double its contribution to the Czech initiative for the purchase of artillery ammunition for Ukraine [financing 800,000 artillery ammunition found on the market by the Czechs].

He noted that both Poland and Latvia are members of this coalition. "If everyone did what Poland and Latvia are doing, Ukraine would be in a much better situation," the minister said.
Pope Francis, whose frail health has been a growing source of concern in recent weeks, appeared in better shape on Wednesday ahead of a busy Easter week schedule.

The 87-year-old pontiff read out in full pre-prepared texts for his weekly audience, rather than delegating an aide to read most of them, as he had done in the previous four weeks, and made a few off-the-cuff remarks.

Francis made fresh appeals for peace in Ukraine and the Middle East, and publicly greeted two men in the audience, one Israeli and one Palestinian, who have both lost daughters in the long-running Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

He described them as two friends "who love one another and who have experienced the same crucifixion."

Vatican media named them as Bassam Aramin and Rami Elhanan of the Parents Circle Families Forum (PCFF), an Israeli-Palestinian group that brings together relatives of victims of the conflict.

Aramin's daughter Abir, 10, was fatally wounded by an Israeli border police officer in 2007, while Elhanan's daughter Smadar was killed by a Palestinian suicide bomber in 1997, just before she turned 14.

The pope, who is in daily phone contact with a Catholic parish in Gaza, also wrote an open letter to Catholics in the Middle East, expressing sympathy for "your sufferings and your struggles, particularly in the course of these recent months."

Prison ritual

The pope has been suffering on and off from what has been described as a cold, bronchitis and influenza for more than a month, leading him to limit public speaking, cancel some meetings and visit a hospital for medical checks.

Concerns about his condition were renewed three days ago, when he skipped his homily at a Palm Sunday service in St. Peter's Square.

The pontiff is due to preside over a number of religious services and ceremonies leading up to Easter on Sunday, including a washing of the feet ritual in a women's prison in Rome on Thursday.

Easter is the most important festival in the Christian calendar, celebrating the day on which Christians believe Jesus rose from the dead.

Francis, who also has restricted mobility due to a knee problem, arrived in the Paul VI audience hall on Wednesday walking with a cane, rather than in a wheelchair that he sometimes uses.

He sounded in good spirits as he told the faithful that the event had been moved indoors at the last minute, forcing crowds to relocate from St. Peter's Square, due to rainy weather.

"It's true that you're going to be a bit crammed, but at least we won't be wet," he said.
Russia said Wednesday it thwarted rockets attacks by Ukraine targeting the Belgorod region, while Ukraine said Russia attacked overnight with 13 aerial drones.

Russias defense ministry said the countrys air defenses shot down 18 Ukrainian rockets.

Vyacheslav Gladkov, the governor in Belgorod, said on Telegram there was some damage to homes in several villages, and that at least one person was hurt.

Belgorod, located along the border between Russia and Ukraine, is a frequent target of Ukrainian attacks as Ukraine seeks to defeat the invasion Russia launched more than two years ago.

Ukraines military said it shot down 10 of the 13 Russian drones, with intercepts taking place over the Kharkiv, Sumy and Kyiv regions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced late Tuesday changes to his national security team.

Zelenskyy said in his nightly address that Oleksiy Danilov, the secretary of Ukraines national security council, had been replaced by Oleksandr Lytvynenko, who formerly led Ukraines foreign spy agency.

Zelenskyy called the change part of a reboot of our states governance system.

In general, I expect strengthening of the strategic capabilities of our state to predict and influence the processes on which the national security of our country depends, Zelenskyy said.

Ukraine said Tuesday it destroyed 12 Russian drones that targeted several Ukrainian regions, while Russia said it thwarted Ukrainian air attacks against the Belgorod region along the border between the two countries.

Ukraines air force said the countrys air defenses downed the drones over the Mykolaiv and Kharkiv regions.

Oleh Syniehubov, the regional governor in Kharkiv, reported on Telegram there was damage to a building, but no casualties.

Vitaliy Kim, the governor in Mykolaiv, said on Telegram three of the drones were destroyed above his region. He did not report any damage or casualties.

Some information for this report came from Reuters.
Anti-establishment figure Bassirou Diomaye Faye has comfortably won the Senegalese presidential election with 54.28% of votes in the first round, official provisional results showed Wednesday.

He placed well ahead of the governing coalition's candidate, former prime minister Amadou Ba, who garnered 35.79%.

The victory for Faye, who was only freed from prison 10 days before the election, still has to be validated by Senegal's top constitutional body, which could happen in a few days.

Faye, 44, who has said he wants a "break" with the current political system, is set to become the youngest president in Senegal's history.

It would be the first time since independence from France in 1960 that an opponent has won in the first round.

Aliou Mamadou Dia, who came third out of 19 candidates officially on the list, won just 2.8% of the vote, according to figures read out at the Dakar court by the president of the national vote counting commission, Amady Diouf.

While his victory in Sunday's vote was already clear after the publication of unofficial partial results, the margin of Faye's win was confirmed by the vote counting commission, which falls under the judiciary.

The turnout of 61.30% was less than in 2019 when outgoing President Macky Sall won a second term in the first-round, but more than in 2012.

The announcement of the official provisional results seems to clear the way for a handover of power between Sall and his successor.

The political crisis triggered by Sall's last-minute postponement of the vote, and the subsequently rushed electoral timetable, cast doubt on whether the handover could take place before the incumbent's term officially ends on April 2.

But a swift handover now seems feasible in the West African nation, which prides itself on its stability and democratic principles in a coup-hit region, provided no appeals are made.

Presidential candidates have 72 hours after the results are announced by the commission to lodge an appeal with the Constitutional Council.

The Constitution states that if no appeals are made in this period, "the Council shall immediately proclaim the final results of the ballot.

But if an objection is made, the Council has five days to rule and could, in theory, annul the election.

Faye, who has never before held elected office, is set to become the fifth president of the West African country of around 18 million people.

His fellow presidential candidates, and Sall, have recognized his victory.

Sunday's election was preceded by three years of tension and deadly unrest, with Senegal plunged into a fresh political crisis in February when Sall decided to delay the presidential poll.

Dozens have been killed and hundreds arrested since 2021, with the country's democratic credentials coming under scrutiny.

Faye himself was detained for months before his release in the middle of the election campaign.

International observers hailed the smooth running of Sunday's vote.

The African Union's observation mission commended the "political and democratic maturity of the Senegalese people (and) the generally peaceful political atmosphere of the presidential election,

Faye has promised to restore national "sovereignty" and implement a program of "left-wing pan-Africanism.

WATCH: Senegal's President-Elect Vows to Fight Corruption, Rebuild Institutions

His election could herald a profound overhaul of Senegal's institutions.

On Monday he pledged "to govern with humility, with transparency, and to fight corruption at all levels.

He said he would prioritize "national reconciliation," "rebuilding institutions" and "significantly reducing the cost of living.

But he also sought to reassure foreign partners.

Senegal "will remain a friendly country and a sure and reliable ally for any partner that engages with us in virtuous, respectful and mutually productive cooperation," he pledged.
The search for the bodies of six workers presumed killed after the collapse of a major bridge in the eastern U.S. city of Baltimore resumes Wednesday.

The workers were part of an eight-person repair crew filling potholes and patching concrete on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when a cargo ship crashed into one of its two main support columns, causing the span to collapse into the Patapsco River before dawn Tuesday.

Two members of the crew were rescued, with one transported to a trauma center in serious condition, while the other was uninjured. Divers spent much of the day searching for the other six workers in bone-chilling water temperatures of about 9 degrees Celsius (48 degrees Fahrenheit) before their efforts were called off before nightfall. Authorities said the river currents and the tangled metal from the wreckage made conditions too dangerous for the divers.

U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath told reporters late Tuesday evening it was doubtful the six missing workers were still alive due to the length of time since the accident and the rivers cold temperatures.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said ending the rescue effort was a really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day. The governor said authorities at the federal, state and local levels will use every resource available to find the missing workers and provide closure for the families.

The Guatemalan foreign affairs ministry issued a statement late Tuesday saying two of the workers were Guatemalan nationals  a 26-year-old from the Peten region and a 35-year-old from the Chiquimula area.

A non-profit organization that provides services to the Baltimore immigrant community says one of the missing workers was from El Salvador, had lived in Maryland for 19 years and was married with three children. News outlets identified the other workers as being from Mexico and Honduras.

Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association, the organization which represents workers responsible for steering seagoing vessels, said the Singapore-flagged container ship named Dali had a total blackout of engine and electrical power minutes before the collision.

Governor Moore said the crew issued a mayday or distress call shortly before the crash, which enabled transportation officials to quickly halt traffic along the interstate highway crossing over the bridge.

"These people are heroes. They saved lives last night," the governor said. The ships crew also dropped its anchors in a futile attempt to avert the disaster.

Video showed the bridge quickly collapsing into the river after the Dali collided with the support column. The vessel is 48 meters wide and 300 meters long and was loaded with cargo containers for Sri Lanka.

Synergy Marine Corp, managers of the Dali, issued a statement saying that all 20 crew members, and the two pilots on board, were accounted for and there were no reports of injuries on board the vessel.

News outlets including The New York Times and The Washington Post are reporting an inspection of the Dali last year at a port in Chile found that the vessel had a deficiency related to propulsion and auxiliary machinery. The inspection, conducted on June 27 at the port of San Antonio, specified that the problem concerned gauges and thermometers. A later inspection, however, found no defects.

CNN is reporting that investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board will likely board the Dali for the first time on Wednesday to recover the ships data recorders. Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace told the network that local, state and federal dive teams will begin the process of underwater mapping the accident area on Wednesday.

U.S. President Joe Biden said at the White House hours after the accident that he would ask Congress for federal funding to rebuild the bridge and plans to visit the site soon.

Were going to rebuild that port, which he said supports 15,000 jobs. Were going to rebuild that bridge as soon as humanly possible.

The 47-year-old, 2.5-kilometer-long bridge was a major link in the interstate highway that circles the city of Baltimore. Biden said 30,000 vehicles crossed the bridge on a typical day.

All shipping in and out of the Port of Baltimore has been suspended.

The bridge was named after Francis Scott Key, the writer of The Star Spangled Banner, a poem later set to music to eventually become the U.S. national anthem.

Key was inspired to write the poem after witnessing the British bombardment of a major U.S. military fort in Baltimore in 1814 during the war that began in 1812.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters, Agence France-Presse.
Protesters in Slovakia formed a human chain around the country's public television and radio building Wednesday in anger over a takeover plan by the government whose populist, pro-Russia prime minister recently labeled several private media outlets his enemies.

The takeover plan was drafted by Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova, who represents an ultra-nationalist member party of the coalition government and has worked for an internet television outlet known for spreading disinformation.

The plan has been condemned by President Zuzana Caputova, opposition parties, local journalists, international media organizations, the European Commission and others who warn that the government would be taking full control of public broadcasting. Slovak journalists have called the plan an attack on all free media.

Wednesday's was the latest protest against the policies of Prime Minister Robert Fico, known for his tirades against journalists. His critics worry Slovakia under him will abandon its pro-Western course and follow the direction of Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Simkovicova has said taking over public media is needed because she believes the current broadcaster is biased, giving space only to mainstream views and censoring the rest. The broadcaster has denied that.

According to her plan, the current public radio and television known as RTVS would be replaced by a new organization. A new seven-member council with members nominated by the government and parliament would select the broadcaster's director and have the right to fire the director without giving cause.

The current broadcaster's director was elected by parliament, and his term in office will end in 2027.

The hundreds of protesters unveiled a banner reading "HANDS OFF RTVS!" and chanted to local journalists, "We're by your side." Thousands of people rallied in a similar protest earlier this month.

Fico returned to power for the fourth time last year after his leftist party Smer, or Direction, won the parliamentary election on a pro-Russian, anti-American platform.
Taiwanese Vice President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim wrapped up a whirlwind diplomatic tour to Europe last week, triggering Beijing as she made stops in three countries and Brussels and met with dozens of politicians.

Analysts and some who attended the meetings say the trip was an example of the type of high-level engagement Hsiao wants to continue after being officially sworn into office in May along with President-elect Lai Ching-te.

Hsiao met with parliamentary leaders in the Czech Republic, Poland and Lithuania. She also engaged with more than 30 lawmakers in the European Parliament in Brussels, including European Parliament First Vice President Othmar Karas.

According to Taiwan's Foreign Ministry, Hsiao emphasized Taipeis democratic alliance with European countries. She also urged the European Union to sign an economic partnership agreement with Taiwan to demonstrate its commitment to upholding regional prosperity.

The ministry said her trip would help the EU understand Taiwans commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits, as well as expanding bilateral cooperation in various fields.

Some who attended events with Hsiao said she also reiterated Taipeis commitment to support Ukraine, which is a priority on many Central and Eastern European countries agenda.

Introducing herself

The meeting in Prague was an opportunity for Hsiao to introduce herself to Czech politicians, Jakub Janda, director of the Prague-based European Values Center for Security Policy, told VOA by phone.

Janda said he attended a reception organized by Czech Senate President Milos Vystrcil, where Hsiao spent about an hour and a half meeting the politicians one by one. Her trip shows that the incoming Taiwanese government wants to maintain high-level engagement with Central and Eastern European countries, he said.

In Lithuania, Hsiao held meetings with members of different political parties, including the two candidates in the upcoming presidential election, and delivered a speech at the Lithuanian Vilnius University Institute of International Relations and Political Science.

Lithuanian national security expert Marius Laurinavicius, who attended a closed-door meeting with Hsiao, said that her meetings with Lithuanias ruling bloc and one of the opposition parties suggests some opposition parties may have adjusted their views on the Baltic states relationship with Taiwan.

Hsiaos visit is a good sign for both countries because it shows some political parties may have changed their positions on Lithuanias cooperation with Taiwan, he told VOA in a phone interview.

In Brussels, some European lawmakers think Hsiaos trip helped raise awareness about Taiwan in Europe before the European Parliament election.

According to current election polls, the European Parliament will have a significantly larger right-wing camp in the new mandate; unfortunately, there is a tendency in that camp to be less China-critical, Engin Eroglu, a member of the European Parliament who met Hsiao in Brussels, told VOA in a written response.

He said Hsiaos presence in Brussels could help remind European lawmakers about the threats Taiwan faces and the huge impact a potential Chinese invasion of the island could have on global trade.

Hsiaos European tour comes less than two months before the new administration, under the pro-sovereignty Democratic Progressive Party, comes into power. China has long opposed official interactions between Taiwan and other countries.

In response to her trip to the Czech Republic, the Chinese Foreign Ministry urged Prague to take effective measures to undo the negative influence of the incident and strictly restrain certain politicians.

Reinforcing ties with Europe

Some analysts say that Hsiaos trip signals to countries in the region that Europe will remain important for Taiwan under the new administration.

This visit corresponds to Taiwans overall effort to reinforce ties with Europe in recent years, Zsuzsa Anna Ferenczy, an expert on EU-Taiwan relations at the National Dong Hwa University in Taiwan, told VOA by phone, adding that the countries Hsiao visited are those that have been more assertive about standing with Taiwan in recent years.

Since 2021, Taiwan has deepened its engagement with Central and Eastern European countries and the Baltic states by opening a new representative office in Vilnius, launching an investment fund worth $82.58 billion for Central and Eastern Europe, and signing agreements to deepen economic and cultural exchanges.

Building a role in the administration

In addition to continuing the foreign policy agenda established by the current administration, some experts say, Hsiao is using the European tour to lay the groundwork for her role in the new administration.

Lev Nachman, a political scientist at National Chengchi University in Taiwan, said it appears that Hsiao is looking to continue to grow Taiwans influence internationally much like she did when she was Taiwans de facto ambassador in the United States.

Hsiaos got more political and social capital internationally than other Taiwanese politicians, so I think the trip is a matter of her and the incoming administration wanting to make sure that this capital doesnt go to waste, Nachman said in a phone interview.

Meanwhile, Taiwans former President Ma Ying-jeou from the China-friendly Kuomintang is preparing for a trip to China next month. During that trip, Ma is widely expected to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing.

Nachman said Hsiaos European tour reflects the differences in Taiwans two main political parties foreign policy agenda.

These trips further show the DPPs approach of diversifying Taiwans external relations while the KMT favors the approach of rapprochement with the PRC, he said.
Thailands lower house passed a same-sex marriage bill Wednesday, as the country inches towards becoming the first Southeast Asian nation to recognize LGBTQ nuptials, a seismic legal shift lauded as a fantastic first step towards full gender parity.

The measure comfortably passed  399 for to 10 against in the elected House of Representatives - some of whom waved rainbow flags during the landmark vote. To become law, it now has to be approved by the unelected upper chamber, the Senate, and then receive a royal assent.

Once the law is passed, Thailand will join only Nepal and Taiwan in Asia in recognizing same-sex marriage.

Gay rights advocates say the progress after years of false starts shows Thailands changing cultural space and offers the country up as a legal sanctuary in Asia, where gay rights are virtually non-existent in many Muslim-majority and Communist-led nations.

The repercussions are huge. My friends have spoken about feeling unshackled from their place as second-class citizens, Paron Mead, 39, a Thai-British LGBTQ artist told VOA.

We are thinking of the enormous number of queer people in Asia who have their eyes on Thailand as we navigate what this marriage bill leads to, both legally and culturally. This will undoubtedly help millions of queer people both in and out of Thailand feel a little safer.

The government of Srettha Thavisin has prioritized the marriage equality bill seeing its potential to bring a soft power win to Thailand, including potentially a boost in LGBTQ tourism.

But the bill is also a popular progressive win for his administration after it was criticized for allying with conservative hardliners who have blocked many other structural reforms to take power after an election last year.

Thailand has long had a reputation as a safe place for LGBTQ people to visit and live, despite the law failing to keep up shifting social attitudes towards gender.

The law was specifically amended within the Civil and Commercial Code, a piece of legislation that has proven notoriously hard to rewrite.

Were making the impossible possible, said Nada Chaiyajit, a transgender woman law lecturer and an advisor to the commission tasked with amending the Marriage Equality Law.

Weve come so far to demand rights for same sex couples, laying groundwork for the society including removing all the discriminatory terms towards women from the existing law, adding provisions to protect individuals.

While the bill has practical outcomes such as inheritance, tax breaks and medical power of attorney for married LGBTQ couples, it says same sex couples who adopt children under the law cannot be called parents but instead must still use the gender specific terms father and mother.

Passing the law is a fantastic first step, said Aitarnik Chitwiset, who was an advisor to the panel which drafted the same sex marriage bill. But its just a first step.

Recognizing the lingering unease among some conservative parts of Thai society - including the countrys Muslim population - a spokesperson for the Pheu Thai party which leads the governing coalition, moved to reassure heterosexual couples will not be deprived of their legal rights.

Instead, it aims to it fix long standing injustice towards LGBTQ Thais, Danuporn Punnakan, of the Pheu Thai Party, who chairs the Same-sex Marriage Committee told parliament.

I invite you all [members of parliament] to create a new chapter in Thai history together.

After years of rejection by governments dominated by conservative elders, LGBTQ advocates say the law change will signal a new dawn for equality.

We are in debt to the cultural leaders who have fought for this reality, Mead added.

To empower anyone to love wholeheartedly is one of the simplest things we can do to shape a more peaceful world.
Thousands of people are gathering in Libreville and Akanda for what the government calls an Inclusive National Dialogue, to be held April 2 to 30, aimed at bringing Gabon back to civilian rule.

Military ruler General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema previously said he would hand back power in August 2025.

Nguema reportedly named 28 military officials, clerics, traditional rulers, and civil society and opposition leaders to serve as officials of the dialogue. Jean-Patrick Iba-Iba, head of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Libreville, will preside over the deliberations.

Gabon's state TV says the participants will include opposition and civil society members. But Gabon's opposition parties say a majority of the approximately 600 delegates are supporters of Nguema, and want him to stay in power.

They also say many of the civilians traveling to Libreville and Akanda were hired by military rulers to give a false impression that Nguema is popular. The government has refuted that claim.

Judicael Obiang Meyong, head of the opposition group the Movement to Act for Gabon's Freedom and Independence, said it is surprising that Gabons military leaders are inviting many of the same officials, leaders and clerics who took part in previous dialogues that failed to solve the countrys problems.

He said those dialogues were organized to extend the rule of Gabon's first president, Omar Bongo Ondimba, and when Omar Bongo died on June 8, 2009, a series of other dialogues attended by Bongos collaborators was organized to extend the Bongo family rule.

The Bongo family ruled Gabon for more than half a century. Nguema is a cousin of President Ali Bongo, who was overthrown by the military in August of last year.

Meyong said military rulers should have asked civilians, whose opinions were not taken into consideration by former regimes, to meet in each of Gabons nine provinces, outline their needs, and elect people to represent the provinces.

But Gabon's government says more than 50,000 suggestions were received when Nguema asked civilians to give proposals on issues to be discussed during the one-month dialogue.

Francis Edgar Simar Mba, a political science lecturer at the Libreville-headquartered Omar Bongo University, said the dialogue is, so far, the most representative in Gabon's history.

For the first time, he said, citizens of the central African state who are in exile and political refugees and their peers in the diaspora will be taking part in the national dialogue. In addition, Mba said, all civil society groups and Gabon's 104 political parties will each send a representative to the dialogue, unlike in the past when only opposition and civil society close to the ruling government were invited to talk.

Nguema said he will respect decisions made at next months dialogue.

A March 10 decree signed by Nguema says the dialogue will pave the way for the drawing up of a new constitution, determine the duration of the transition, and propose the political, economic, and social organization of the central African nation after the transitional period.

Opposition and civil society groups say Gabon's transitional government should respect an initial plan it published to hand power to civilian rule. According to that plan, the transition is to last 24 months, ending in August 2025 with free, credible, and fair elections.
Thousands of people protested in Budapest near parliament on Tuesday demanding the chief prosecutor and Prime Minister Viktor Orban resign after a former government insider accused a senior aide to Orban of trying interfere in a graft case.

Protesters marched from the chief prosecutor's office toward parliament shouting "Resign, resign," with many carrying torches.

Peter Magyar earlier published a recording of a conversation with Judit Varga, then his wife and Hungary's justice minister, in which she detailed an attempt by aides to Orban's cabinet chief to remove certain parts from documents in a graft case.

The case is centered on former justice ministry state secretary Pal Volner, who was charged in 2022 with accepting bribes from the former head of the Court Bailiffs, Gyorgy Schadl. Both have pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors are seeking jail terms for the pair.

Prosecutors said in a statement they would analyze the tape, which Magyar said he recorded in January 2023, and further evidence would be collected.

"It is legally and physically impossible to eliminate and meddle into prosecution documents," the statement said.

Prosecutors were scheduled to hold a press conference on Thursday.

The allegations come at a politically sensitive time for Orban ahead of European parliamentary elections in June, and follow a sex abuse scandal that brought down two of Orban's political allies - the former president and the former justice minister Judit Varga - last month.

Magyar, 43, a lawyer formerly close to the government, plans to launch a new party to challenge Orban.

"Hungarians thank you ... for coming in the thousands tonight ... to tell those in power that we have had enough," he told protesters in a speech.

On the audio tape, recorded in the then-couple's home, and published on Magyar's Facebook page, Varga says aides linked to cabinet chief minister Antal Rogan suggested to prosecutors what should be deleted from documents related to the Volner/Schadl case.

"They told the prosecutors what should be deleted but they (prosecutors) did not entirely follow up on that," Varga is heard on the tape as saying.

Former justice minister Varga, who could not be reached for comment, did not dispute the authenticity of the tape in a post on her Facebook page.

"Peter Magyar made a secret recording of his former spouse, me, in our home and now used this to achieve his political goals. He is not worthy of anybody's trust," she wrote.

Government spokesperson Zoltan Kovacs declined to reply to emailed questions from Reuters about the content of the recording, commenting: "Much ado about nothing."
Donald Trump lashed out Wednesday at the New York judge who put him under a gag order ahead of his April 15 hush-money criminal trial, making a fallacious claim about his daughter and urging him to step aside from the case.

In a social media post, the former president suggested without evidence that Judge Juan M. Merchan was kowtowing to his daughters interests as a Democratic political consultant. He also made a claim  later repudiated by court officials  that she had posted a social media photo showing Trump behind bars.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, complained on his Truth Social platform that the gag order issued Tuesday was illegal, un-American, unConstitutional. He said that Merchan, a veteran Manhattan jurist, was wrongfully attempting to deprive me of my First Amendment Right to speak out against the Weaponization of Law Enforcement by Democratic rivals.

Trump claimed that Merchans daughter, Loren Merchan, whose firm has worked on campaigns for President Joe Biden and other Democrats, had recently posted a photo on social media depicting her obvious goal of seeing him jailed.

In a statement, a spokesperson for New Yorks state court system said that claim was false and that the social media account Trump was referencing no longer belongs to Loren Merchan. It appears to have been taken over by someone else after she deleted it about a year ago, court spokesperson Al Baker said.

The account on X, formerly known as Twitter, is not linked to her email address, nor has she posted under that screenname since she deleted the account. Rather, it represents the reconstitution, last April, and manipulation of an account she long ago abandoned, Baker said.

Messages seeking comment were left for Loren Merchan and Trump's campaign.

Trump did not link to the purported photo, but an X account under the name LM showed a photo illustration of an imprisoned Trump as its profile picture Wednesday morning. It was later changed to an image of Vice President Kamala Harris as a child.

Loren Merchans consulting firm had linked to that account in its social media posts in past years, but it is now private with no posts displayed and states that it joined the platform in April 2023, after Baker said she deleted it. Usernames on X can be taken over by other users after theyre deleted.

The gag order, which prosecutors had requested, bars Trump from either making or directing other people to make public statements on his behalf about jurors and potential witnesses in the hush-money trial, such as his lawyer turned nemesis Michael Cohen and porn star Stormy Daniels. It also prohibits any statements meant to interfere with or harass the courts staff, prosecution team or their families.

It does not bar comments about Merchan or his family, nor does it prohibit criticism of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, the elected Democrat whose office is prosecuting Trump.

Trumps post insinuating that Loren Merchan had posted the photo came after conservative commentator Laura Loomer posted a story online Tuesday claiming to have unearthed her X account.

So, let me get this straight, Trump wrote on Truth Social, the Judges daughter is allowed to post pictures of her dream of putting me in jail ... but I am not allowed to talk about the attacks against me, and the Lunatics trying to destroy my life and prevent me from winning the 2024 Presidential Election, which I am dominating?

Braggs office declined to comment.

Trump's three-part Truth Social post was his first reaction to the gag order. His focus on Merchan's daughter echoed his lawyers' arguments last year when they urged the judge to exit the case. The judge had also made several small donations totaling $35 to Democratic causes during the 2020 campaign, including $15 to Biden.

Merchan said then that a state court ethics panel found that Loren Merchan's work had no bearing on his impartiality. The judge said in a ruling last September that he was certain of his ability to be fair and impartial" and that Trumps lawyers had failed to demonstrate that there exists concrete, or even realistic reasons for recusal to be appropriate, much less required on these grounds.

In a recent interview, Merchan told The Associated Press that he and his staff were working diligently to prepare for the historic first trial of a former president.

Theres no agenda here," Merchan said. "We want to follow the law. We want justice to be done.

Trumps hush-money case, set to be the first of his four criminal cases to go to trial, centers on allegations that he falsely logged payments to Cohen as legal fees in his companys books when they were for Cohen's work during the 2016 campaign covering up negative stories about Trump. That included $130,000 Cohen paid Daniels on Trumps behalf so she wouldnt publicize her claim of a sexual encounter with him years earlier.

Trump pleaded not guilty last April to 34 counts of falsifying business records, a felony punishable by up to four years in prison, though there is no guarantee that a conviction would result in jail time. He denies having sex with Daniels and his lawyers have said that the payments to Cohen were legitimate legal expenses, not part of any coverup.

In issuing the gag order, Merchan cited Trump's history of threatening, inflammatory, denigrating remarks about people involved in his legal cases. A violation could result in Trump being held in contempt of court, fined or even jailed.

Though not covered by the restrictions, Merchan referenced Trump's various comments about him as an example of his rhetoric. The gag order mirrors one imposed and largely upheld by a federal appeals court panel in Trumps Washington, D.C., election interference criminal case.

Trumps lawyers fought a gag order, warning it would amount to unconstitutional and unlawful prior restraint on his free speech rights.

Merchan had long resisted imposing one, recognizing Trumps special status as a former president and current candidate and not wanting to trample his ability to defend himself publicly.

But, he said, as the trial nears, he found that his obligation to ensuring the integrity of the case outweighs First Amendment concerns. He said Trump's statements have induced fear and necessitated added security measures to protect his targets and investigate threats.

Editor's Note: This story updates a previous version from the Associated Press to note that Loren Merchan said she no longer owns the social media account Trump referenced and that it was taken over by someone else over a year ago.
The emergency response team of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) in Mykolaiv region helped Mykolaiv citizens affected by Russia's Wednesday missile attack on the city.

"Volunteers from the emergency response team of the Ukrainian Red Cross in Mykolaiv region provided four injured people with first aid and transported them to the city hospitals," the URCS said on Facebook on Wednesday.

As reported, the Russian occupation forces hit Mykolaiv reportedly by an Iskander-M ballistic missile on Wednesday. Eight civilians were injured as a result of the strike.
U.N. aid agencies warn the crisis in Gaza has reached an unprecedented level of despair as Israeli attacks continue and hunger stalks the civilian population after months of inadequate humanitarian assistance.

Let us be clear: Lifesaving aid is being obstructed. Lives are being lost. Dignity is being denied, said James Elder, a UNICEF spokesperson.

The deprivation, the forced desperation, means despair pervades the population. And peoples nerves are shattered amid unrelenting attacks, he said.

Speaking in Rafah, Elder told journalists in Geneva Tuesday that the city was unrecognizable from when he last was there three months ago because of the congestion, and tents on street corners and sandy plots.

An estimated 1.2 million Palestinians have crowded into Rafah to escape fighting in other parts of Gaza.

Elder described living conditions in Rafah as hellish, noting that one toilet was available for every 850 people and one shower for every 3,600 people. Calling Rafah a city of children, he said, the endless talk of a large-scale military operation in Rafah, a city of 600,000 girls and boys, was highly concerning.

He noted that the situation in northern Gaza, where food is scant and hunger pervasive, is particularly dire.

In recounting a trip he undertook to the northern city of Jaballa two days ago, he said there were crowds of tens of thousands of people standing on the rubble in the streets placing their hand to their mouth--that universal sign of hunger--desperately asking and seeking for food.

He said that when he entered the Gaza strip a week ago there were hundreds of trucks with lifesaving humanitarian aid waiting to get to people in urgent need but they were on the wrong side of the border.

Hundreds of U.N. and international NGO trucks are currently backlogged, waiting to enter Gaza, he said.

The ongoing war was triggered by the October 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel that killed some 1,200 people and resulted in 240 being taken hostage. Since then, Israels offensive in Gaza has killed more than 31,000, according to Gaza health authorities.

An analysis by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification System (IPC) report released March 18, warns that Gazas entire population of some 2.3 million peopleis enduring high levels of acute food insecurity, and that half the population is suffering from catastrophic acute hunger.

In a follow-up to that report, the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization last week said that famine is projected to occur anytime between now and May 2024 in Gazas northern governorates.

There are cases of death as a result of starvation and those are the early indications of famine, said Abdulhakim Elwaer, the FAO assistant director-general and regional representative for the Near East and North Africa.

Speaking from Cairo Tuesday, he said, I hope we are not waiting for a full famine declaration because the situation as it exists calls for action, which is long overdue.

He noted that currently the only available access to the north is through the south.

The north remains a total blockade and is inaccessible and we have enough evidence that shows there is ongoing starvation, he said. Urgent measures are needed to avert famine in Gaza. Restoration of unfettered humanitarian access is crucial to prevent deterioration of the situation.

Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the Office of Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, OCHA, said that under international humanitarian law, the parties to the conflict must allow and facilitate rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need.

He said that Israeli authorities have a right to control and inspect aid, but they also need to create an enabling environment to move it around.

You cannot claim and adhere to these international provisions of law when you block UNRWA (the U.N. relief and works agency for Palestine refugees) food convoys, he said.

Israeli officials reject accusations of blocking aid. They say they have increased aid to Gaza through a new gate to the north that opened earlier this month, and say it is the responsibility of the U.N. and other aid agencies inside the territory to deliver the food and other supplies.

Israel also accuses Hamas of stealing humanitarian aid  a charge Hamas denies.

Before the war, UNICEF said that less than one percent of children under five in Gaza suffered from wasting, a condition that affects acutely malnourished children. Today, it says one in three children under two years of age are acutely malnourished.

A week ago, UNICEFs James Elder went to Kamal Adwan Hospital--one of two hospitals in northern Gaza where more than 20 children reportedly have died of dehydration and malnutrition.

When I was there, I saw a room full of mothers and carers shuttering over children who were paper thin. Incubators full of babies who are born prematurely because of the stress on mothers, who are also malnourished.

He said, Mothers have done so well to keep children alive from bombardment. They know children now face starvation very simply because of a lack of food. People in the north, when I speak to them now, say they are mainly surviving on a type of grass with lemon.

He said famine could be averted if Israel would open the Erez crossing point in northern Gaza, that is 10 minutes from those at risk of starving to death. Ten minutes.

Open that and we could turn this humanitarian crisis in the north around in a matter of days. But it remains closed, he said.
The U.S. State Department has said it does not support Pakistans plan to build a pipeline to import gas from Iran.

State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller refused to comment on the nature of sanctions Pakistan could face for importing energy from Iran. However, he cautioned Islamabad against going ahead with the plan.

But we always advise everyone that doing business with Iran runs the risk of touching upon and coming in contact with our sanctions, and would advise everyone to consider that very carefully, said Miller, adding that the assistant secretary made clear last week, we do not support this pipeline going forward.

Donald Lu, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia told the House Foreign Affairs committee last Wednesday in a hearing that importing gas from Iran would expose Pakistan to U.S. sanctions.

Pakistans outgoing caretaker government approved the construction of an 80-kilometer section of the pipeline in February, largely to avoid paying Iran $18 billion in penalties for years of project delays.

Millers remarks came after Pakistani media reported Tuesday, Islamabad was planning to seek a U.S. sanctions waiver.

We will seek exemption from U.S. sanctions. Pakistan cannot afford sanctions in the gas pipeline project, Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik told media during an informal chat, according to a report in Dawn News.

VOA reached out to Malik for details but did not receive a response.

Lu told the committee last week Washington had not heard from the government of Pakistan a desire for any waiver for American sanctions that would certainly result from such a project.

Pakistans Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Islamabad did not need a waiver to build the pipeline.

It is a segment of the pipeline which is being built inside Pakistani territory. So, we do not believe that at this point there is room for any discussion or waiver from a third party, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson said last Thursday in response to a VOA question at the weekly press briefing.

Pakistan and Iran signed an agreement in June 2009 for a pipeline to supply 750 million to 1 billion cubic feet per day of Iranian natural gas to Pakistan.

In the recently approved first phase, Pakistan will construct an 80km section of the pipeline from its border with Iran to its port city of Gwadar in the southwestern province of Balochistan.

Iran claimed completing construction of 900 kilometers of the pipeline on its side in 2011. However, Pakistan delayed construction on its side, primarily for fear of U.S. sanctions.

Tehran is under sanctions from Washington for its nuclear program.
The U.S. Department of Justice sought on Tuesday to seize two multimillion-dollar Manhattan apartments that were purchased by a former Mongolian prime minister with funds from a money laundering and corruption scheme.

"Today's forfeiture action sends a message that criminal activity is never included in the homeowner's agreement," U.S. attorney Breon Peace said in a statement.

"As alleged, former Mongolian Prime Minister Batbold used high-end New York City real estate as a cover for his illicit corruption scheme," Peace said.

Sukhbaatar Batbold, currently a member of parliament, and his family bought two midtown Manhattan apartments for a total of $14 million in 2012 and 2015, according to federal prosecutors in Brooklyn.

Prosecutors said the apartments were purchased with profits from a $68 million mining contract awarded to Hong Kong-registered Catrison Limited in 2011 to buy copper concentrates from the Erdenet copper mine in Mongolia. They said Catrison, a newly formed company with no previous mining experience, was controlled by Batbold through intermediaries.

The civil forfeiture complaint alleges Batbold used his position as prime minister to award the contracts to "entities owned or controlled by his associates or his son." The scheme concealed that Batbold and his family violated Mongolian anti-corruption laws.

In response to the complaint, Batbold's lawyers said a separate civil case from 2020 held that he had no property in New York.

"Mr. Batbold looks forward to his day in court, when he will have the opportunity to defend himself against these unfounded claims," his lawyer, Orin Snyder, said in a statement.

In 2021, Congress passed the Corporate Transparency Act to address the misuse of shell companies, requiring certain companies to disclose ownership information to a registry held by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network of the U.S. Treasury.

The Treasury Department in February formally proposed a long-awaited plan aimed at curbing the flow of illicit funds through American real estate markets. According to officials, more than $2.3 billion was laundered through U.S. real estate between 2015 and 2020.

Prosecutors allege that shell companies connected to a board member of Catrison purchased properties in New York City, with Batbold's son listed as a co-owner of one property and using one of the apartments as his mailing address to open a U.S. bank account. These transactions are under scrutiny for potential illicit financial activities.

While Batbold has not been charged with a crime, Michael Nordwall, assistant director of the FBI's criminal investigative division, said, "While he was prime minister of Mongolia, the defendant allegedly used corrupt funds and a sophisticated money laundering scheme to purchase two luxury New York apartments.

"Make no mistake, the FBI is dedicated to identifying assets gained through corruption and working with our partners to recover the funds, no matter how obscured."

Some information for this report came from Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
The United States and Britain imposed sanctions on a fundraising network aligned with the Palestinian group Hamas, the U.S. Treasury Department said on Wednesday.

It said in a statement that the punitive measures target two people and three entities described as key financial facilitators involved in fundraising for Hamas, which both countries brand a terrorist group.

"Treasury remains committed to degrading Hamas' ability to finance its terrorist activities, including through online fundraising campaigns that seek to funnel money directly to the group," Treasury Undersecretary Brian Nelson said in the statement.

"This action is being taken as part of a collaborative effort with the United Kingdoms Office of Foreign Sanctions Implementation, which is implementing sanctions on these same targets," the statement said.

The measures target the Gaza Now organization, which the Treasury Department said had started raising money online after the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. It is the fourth U.S. and British coordinated sanctions action related to Hamas fundraising efforts since then.

Israel says Hamas fighters killed 1,200 people in the October attack and still hold more than 130 hostages in Gaza. More than 32,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's subsequent offensive in Gaza, the Hamas-ruled Gaza Health Ministry said on Wednesday.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Tuesday to push forward with his campaign to eliminate the Hamas militant group, while also criticizing a U.N. Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire in Gaza.

Israel will not submit to the delusional demands of Hamas, and will continue to act to achieve all the goals of the war: to release all the abductees, to destroy the military and governmental capabilities of Hamas and to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, Netanyahu said in a statement.

Hamas officials said Monday they told negotiators working on a temporary cease-fire deal that Hamas would not alter its proposal that includes a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and an exchange of hostages held in Gaza for prisoners held by Israel.

The two warring sides have shown little movement in their demands despite weeks of efforts by U.S., Egyptian and Qatari negotiators to find a way to bring a temporary halt in fighting, the release of hostages and an increase in badly needed humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza.

Netanyahu said Tuesday that the Hamas positions proves the terror group is not interested in continuing negotiations for a deal, and is an unfortunate testimony to the damage of the Security Council's decision.

The Security Council resolution adopted Monday demands an immediate cease-fire for the month of Ramadan, which is half over, leading to a lasting sustainable cease-fire. It also demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, the lifting of all barriers to the provision of more humanitarian aid, and the protection of civilians in Gaza.

This must be a turning point. This must lead to saving lives on the ground, an emotional Palestinian U.N. envoy, Riyad Mansour, told the council. This must signal the end of this assault of atrocities against our people.

The text, put forward by the 10 elected members of the 15-nation council, was adopted in a vote of 14 in favor with the United States abstaining, allowing the measure to pass. This was the eighth time the council attempted to agree on a cease-fire resolution, and it was greeted with applause in the packed council chamber.

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Washington abstained because, while some of their proposals were taken into account, the text did not include a condemnation of Hamas  a major U.S. demand throughout months of negotiations on previous failed cease-fire resolution attempts.

However, as I said before, we fully support some of the critical objectives in this non-binding resolution. And we believe it was important for the Council to speak out and make clear that any cease-fire must come with the release of all hostages, she said.

U.N. Security Council resolutions are international law, so it was not immediately clear why she believes it is not binding. Other council members reiterated that council decisions are binding and mandatory.

SEE ALSO:

In Washington, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that "nothing, nothing has changed about our policy. Nothing."

Israels envoy said the resolution is shameful because it does not condition the cease-fire on the release of hostages held by Hamas.

It should be very clear that as long as Hamas refuses to release the hostages in the diplomatic channels, there is no other way to secure their return than through a military operation, said Gilad Erdan, Israels U.N. representative.

The 10 elected council members said in a joint statement to reporters after the vote that they hope it will be implemented by all parties and will help ease the suffering of the population in Gaza.

Military talks in Washington

Meanwhile, there was no halt in the fighting. Israels military reported Tuesday conducting more operations around the Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, as well as ground fighting and airstrikes in central Gaza.

SEE ALSO:

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held talks Tuesday with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The Pentagon said the meeting was expected to include discussion of efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages held in Gaza as well as the need for more humanitarian aid to reach civilians in Gaza.

"In Gaza today, the number of civilian casualties is far too high and the amount of humanitarian aid is far too low," Austin said at the start of the meeting.

Other senior Israeli officials had been expected to take part in separate meetings at the White House, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled their trip Monday after the U.S. did not block the Gaza cease-fire proposal.

We are very disappointed that they will not be coming to Washington, D.C. to allow us to have a fulsome conversation with them about viable alternatives to going in on the ground in Rafah," Kirby told reporters at the White House.

The United States has made it clear it will not support an Israeli attack on Rafah, near the Gaza-Egypt border, without a plan to protect civilians there. Israel has said it has a plan but has not publicly said where the Palestinians sheltering there would be relocated.

More than 1.2 million Palestinians have fled there on orders from Israeli forces who told them to leave their homes in northern Gaza as Israeli troops adva

Meanwhile on Tuesday, the U.N.s top Middle East envoy, Tor Wennesland, briefed the council at its regular meeting on its 2016 resolution on the illegality of Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.

From December 8 to March 18, Wennesland said Israel has advanced or approved more than 5,000 housing units in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. Additionally, 300 Palestinian-owned buildings were demolished.

I remain deeply troubled by the relentless expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, he told the council in a briefing from Jerusalem. The ever expanding settlement footprint, including outposts, further entrenches the occupation, while severely impeding the exercise by the Palestinian people of its right to self-determination.

VOA U.N. Correspondent Margaret Besheer and White House Correspondent Anita Powell contributed to this report. Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.

nced in the earlier stages of the war.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has contended that "we have no way to defeat Hamas without getting into Rafah and eliminating the battalions that are left there."

The war started with the October 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people according to Israeli tallies and led to the capture of about 250 hostages. More than 100 were released in November during a temporary cease-fire. About 100 are still believed to be alive, another 30 are believed dead but still held in Gaza. The health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip says more than 32,200 people have been killed during Israels counteroffensive. The total includes Hamas fighters and civilians, with the ministry saying two-thirds of the dead are women and children.
These people are babies. But theres a lot of babies that know about my music, so why cant I learn about the music theyre making in return? Photo-Illustration: Vulture; Photos: Rhiannon Ellis, Kevin Mazur/Getty Images, Christopher Polk/Billboard via Getty Images

Yeah, boy, consider this a glory day. Flavor Flav is a positivity magnet, with just about every artist who tick-tocks into his path keen on a hug, a photo, or a few words of encouragement. (Miley Cyrus got the trifecta.) But Public Enemys elder statesman makes sure it goes both ways: Over the past year, it seems like Flav has been in the crowd at every concert imaginable to enthusiastically support the headliner, whether its with a wrist full of friendship bracelets at the Eras tour, a yeehaw attitude while seeing Tim McGraw, or, most recently, a spiritual awakening from Bruce Springsteen.

Last Friday, the Boss  back to his onstage self after an illness  returned to Las Vegas, giving us perhaps the most endearing Flav cameo yet. While concert footage documented his big-kid blitz during songs like Dancing in the Dark and Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out, Flav was also able to meet the Boss after the show thanks to the help of Steven Van Zandt. Yes, he brought gifts, and the duo had plenty to discuss when the cameras turned off. When it comes down to this music shit, Flav explains, Im all over the place.

Its been such a joy following you from afar because I never know where youll be stopping for a concert next. What do you credit your musical curiosity to?

Ive loved all kinds of music since I was a kid. Im not just into one genre  from Patti LaBelle and the Blue Belles all the way down to Billie Eilish and up again to Def Leppard. Ive always been a big fan of Bruce Springsteen. That man is a legend. Hes paved the way for a lot of people in music today. Cmon, thats the Boss. He paved the way for me by being one incredible musician. Im still kind of starstruck from meeting him.

Being aware of and possessing this effusive energy has always been a part of your artistic process. I dont really see a lot of your peers engaging with other performers with this level of sincerity and interest.

Its because of my choices of people to love and support. I dont care how old you are. If the music is right, Im going to support it and the whole nine yards. Right now, youll see me at a Bruce Springsteen concert; next thing you know, youll see me around Taylor Swift; and next time, youll find me around Kenny G. And after that, youll probably see me at a Morgan Wallen or Jelly Roll concert. I spread it out. Music is a universal language and for everyone that likes it. I like opera music. I love old Italian mob music. I listen to music that a lot of people wouldnt listen to today. Im really enjoying the younger crowd. Its interesting to me to learn about how young people accept music. Thats why Im so much into Taylor Swift.

Cmon, Im 65 years old. I know its far beyond my generation. These people are babies. But theres a lot of babies that know about my music, so why cant I learn about the music theyre making in return? By supporting these people, I think they feel good about it because, first of all, Im a rap icon. I dont know one rap icon Swiftie that Taylor Swift has. I dont think she has many. If she does, will they please step up? Because I feel Im the only one.

Taylor writes about true things and a lot of the people in her audience can relate to it. Me and you, we used to be good friends, but you fucked up, and now weve got fucking bad blood. Thats the one that made me really get into it. I thought, Hey, this girl is dope, and I started listening to the rest of her stuff. When it comes down to the writing, she keeps it real. Thats what I like about her music. A lot of people have cruel summers. Everybodys summers arent always going to be the best. Word up, man. The Swifties call me King Swiftie and they get together to make me shit and send it to my crib. Im like, Thats cute, the Swifties are hooking me up! They love their boy!

What Im hearing is theres no time limit for being a hype man.

Theres no time limit for it. The only limit that you have is the limit that you set for yourself, and thats it. I havent set any limits for myself.

When you met Bruce, you commended him for the years of good music and leadership. What does he represent to you as a leader?

The reason I said that is because, first of all, hes the actual leader of his band. Hes led that band for so many years without missing a step. But he also has a lot of fans who follow him. When you have people who follow you, that makes you a leader. As a fan, he led me along the way for years. I really meant every letter of each word that I said.

GLORY DAYS for real,,, gotta bow down to THE BOSS @springsteen pic.twitter.com/enmHM2fDrj  FLAVOR FLAV (@FlavorFlav) March 23, 2024

Were you hoping he would pull you onstage during Dancing in the Dark, Courteney Cox style?

My biggest dream wouldve been him pulling me on the stage if he did Born in the U.S.A. I thought, Man, how come hes not doing this fucking song? Thats the one hes most famous for. But when he did Dancing in the Dark, I was jumping up and down for the entire song. I had a ball. I was like, Look at me, Bruce!

Did you get to have a very Vegas night out with the E Street Band after the show?

Nah, not after the show. I took my family out to dinner and then we packed it in.

 Thats got to be @FlavorFlav going bonkers at the Bruce Springsteen show in Las Vegas, right??? pic.twitter.com/nffrfovUyB  Evan Schreiber (@SchreiberEvan) March 23, 2024

I had a feeling that Bruce previously spoke about being an admirer of your work, and I stumbled upon a Nightline interview of his from about 20 years ago. Do you know the one Im talking about?

No, I sure dont. Man, am I honored to hear that. I was just honored to see this man and he knew who I was. When I met him, I thought, Bruce Springsteen knows who I am? Wow, this is crazy. This is big. Can you tell me more?

He grouped Public Enemy together with artists such as James Brown, Bob Dylan, and Bob Marley to explain why the greatest pop music was about liberation. He said of your intentions: To begin to find a way of looking at the world, to find a way to move through the world, and perhaps a way to impact upon the world.

I feel larger than life to hear something like that from Bruce. Hearing you saying that coming from him? Shit. Thats crazy right there. What a very good feeling.

Do you find a strong connection between yourself and Bruce, in terms of how you aimed to liberate your listeners?

Yes, I feel me and Bruce are musically on the same page. The reason I say that is because  well, I had this conversation with him, and Ill tell you what I said. Back in the day, there was a peddler in New York named Amadou Diallo. He got killed by the police, and they let the police off. The police shot at this man 41 times, but only 19 of the bullets hit him. Once that happened, I wrote a song for Public Enemy called 41:19. And then about two years later, Bruce comes out with a song called American Skin (41 Shots). His song just blew up like a phenomenon. I told him, Yeah, thats great, but mine was first, man. I had the first 41 shots song out. But his went more viral, because its fucking Bruce Springsteen. Thats the fucking Boss. You know whatever he puts out is gonna go viral.

Were there any dealings between Public Enemy and the E Street Band over the years that we might not know about? Did you run in the occasional social circle?

No, absolutely not. Ive just been a big fan of Bruce. I dont know how the rest of Public Enemy feels about him.

How did you choose the right clock to meet New Jerseys king?

I like to think of nice things and nice gestures instead of the clocks that I wear. I thought it would be good to give Bruce and Steven a desk clock signed by me. Little black clocks to put on their desks. Ya feel me? They really appreciated the gift, and I was honored they accepted it. They didnt know I had those clocks for them.

Is there still a bucket-list concert and meet-and-greet for you at this point?

Yeah, theres definitely one person that I wouldve loved to have met and shook his hand and told him, Thank you for all of the good years of music. This man was a jazz musician who goes by the name of Chick Corea. I wouldve done triple somersaults in the air meeting Chick Corea. That was my favorite album, Return to Forever. I did get to meet Herbie Hancock and I did get the pleasure of meeting my boy Stanley Clarke. I got to meet a lot of my jazz greats. Quincy Jones is one of them. The first movie I was in was Listen Up: The Lives of Quincy Jones. Me and Miles Davis narrated that movie, and we were able to become great friends before he passed away.
Photo: Charles Sykes/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

Shahs of Sunset star Mike Shouhed is facing legal action for alleged domestic violence. According to court documents obtained by People and Page Six, Paulina Ben-Cohen has filed a lawsuit against her ex-fiance over allegations tied to an incident in their Los Angelesarea home in March 2022. Shouhed previously was arrested and faced 14 criminal charges for this same incident. But per TMZ, he was able to strike a deal with prosecutors and close out his case in October 2022 by entering a two-year diversion program. Now, Ben-Cohen is suing Shouhed for assault and battery, gender violence, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Heres what to know.

What is Shouhed accused of in the lawsuit?

Ben-Cohen alleges that her ex-fiance viciously, brutally, and repeatedly assaulted and battered her on March 27, 2022, in their Los Angelesarea home. In the complaint, she recalls having a tobacco-free hookah (which she describes as very common in her culture) after putting her children to bed. Ben-Cohen claims that Shouhed called her a horrible mother, a fucking whore, and a piece of shit. After she told him to leave the home and began packing his belongings, he allegedly grabbed her hair and shoulder and violently threw her to the ground.

Ben-Cohen further alleges that Shouhed struck her in the face and tried to suffocate her while she was on the ground. She also accuses him of trying to suffocate her at least two more times, threatening to kill her, and telling her that he had a hit man who would put her away. The filing includes screenshots of security footage of physical altercations that appear to back Ben-Cohens claims. Ben-Cohen said the police were called after Shouhed went upstairs to retrieve one of his firearms; People viewed records that confirmed that Shouhed was ultimately arrested and released the same day on a $50,000 bond.

How has Shouhed responded to the lawsuit?

As of publication time, he has not publicly commented. Representatives for Shouhed did not immediately respond to Vultures request for comment.

What about the criminal charges?

After Shouheds arrest in 2022, his attorney, Alex Kessel, said in a statement to People that he had no doubt that his client would be exonerated, adding, please honor the presumption of innocence. In July 2022, former Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer charged Shouhed with six weapons charges, plus eight charges of domestic violence, battery, and unlawfully attempting to dissuade a victim from making a report. According to EW, Shouhed pled not guilty to all 14 counts.

TMZ later reported in October 2022 that charges against Shouhed were being dropped because he had agreed to enter a two-year diversion program. This deal with prosecutors required him to take anger-management and parenting classes, complete a gun-safety course, and do community service. He was also prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm until the end of the program.

When did Shouhed and Ben-Cohen get engaged?

The pair confirmed that they were engaged during the first part of the Shahs of Sunsets season-nine reunion in August 2021, three months after they reportedly purchased a home in the Los Angeles suburbs together. During season nine, Ben-Cohen had discovered sexts from another woman on Shouheds phone. I know this time around is so different, Ben-Cohen said at the reunion. The love and the connection that we have with each other, I would not be able to live a day without him in my life.

And what happened to Shahs of Sunset?

The reality show was canceled in April 2022, shortly after Shouheds arrest in late March. At the time, Bravo confirmed that the show was on indefinite pause but did not provide a reason. Sources close to the show told Page Six that Shahs of Sunset had become too expensive, though a Ryan Seacrest Productions source claimed it had just ran its course.
If Katie Lowes played me, Id be flattered. But thats just me, I guess. Photo: Nicole Rivelli/Netflix

Germanys official scambassador to New York, Anna Sorokin/Anna Delvey, is back in the news cycle again, but this time shes not the one in trouble. Former Vanity Fair photo editor Rachel DeLoache Williams sued Netflix on August 29, 2022 for a defamatory depiction of her on Inventing Anna. Per Variety, Netflix has not been able to dismiss the complaint. Chief Judge Colm F. Connolly ruled on March 26 that the lawsuit will be allowed to proceed, despite Netflixs argument that Shonda Rhimes and other show creators had the First Amendment right to take literary license when giving their interpretation of a public controversy. Connollys ruling suggests that at least some of the characterizations in the show are a matter of fact, not opinion  meaning they could potentially be considered defamatory differences.

Williams published an article in 2018 about her time with Sorokin, and apparently the series got the details of their friendship all wrong: Williams did not stop being friends with Sorokin because Sorokin was having problems in Morocco, but rather because she subsequently discovered on her return to New York that Sorokin was a liar and a con artist, reads a statement from Williamss lawyer in Delaware state court, per The Hollywood Reporter.

In addition to finding Inventing Anna inaccurate to her lived experience, Williams also thinks the shows depiction of her was just plain rude to a legal degree. Her case argues that Netflix made a deliberate decision for dramatic purposes to show Williams doing or saying things in the Series which portray her as a greedy, snobbish, disloyal, dishonest, cowardly, manipulative and opportunistic person.

The reason why we have had to file this lawsuit is because Netflix used Rachels real name and biographical details, and made her out to be a horrible person, which she is not, says Williamss attorney, Alexander Rufus-Isaacs. The devastating damage to her reputation could have been avoided if only Netflix had used a fictitious name and different details. Why didnt they do this for her, when they did for so many other characters in the Series? Perhaps the reason was that she had chosen to play for the other team, i.e., HBO. Yes, the lawsuit claims that Netflix might have done Williams so dirty in the series because she sold her story rights to a competing company.

Katie Lowes, the actress who plays Williams in the series, told Vulture that her version of Williams is, young, naive, and had a privileged life. I dont think this is necessarily true of Rachel Williams in real life; I think this is true of the character Shonda wrote and what Shonda needed the character to be for the show. She also said she had not met Williams personally. Sounds like Sorokin is about to have more inspiration for her courtroom art.

This post has been updated.
Photo: Oliver Morris/Getty Images

Richard Serra, who died on Tuesday at the age of 85, was a powerhouse locomotive of American art. His colossal steel plates are coiled like ribbons into spiraling geometric shapes reminiscent of rosebuds and eddies and shaved chocolate. These megaliths are so massive that they usher us, through shadowed slivers, into their enclosed spaces, where one stands alone with  and within  art. Here is silence and material and scale and movement.

Serra transformed sculpture. He was a working-class alchemist originally from San Francisco; as Janet Malcolm once said, his aura was of rough small-town America rather than of bohemia. In New York in 1968, he took on Pollock and the Abstract Expressionists, but instead of paint, he splashed molten lead onto the base of a wall. Ladle by ladle, he showed liquid becoming solid, revealing sculpture as an action just as it was freezing into form.

In 1969, he leaned four quarter-ton plates of lead against one another in a rough cube and titled it One Ton Prop (House of Cards). These dangerous balancing acts  thrust and counterthrust, weight and angles and centers of gravity  would come to define his work, which often seemed on the precipice of collapse. Your antennae twitch, wiggle, and grow before a Serra.

Delineator (197475) is composed of two rectangular steel plates, each measuring 10 feet by 26 feet and each weighing two and a half tons. One rests on the floor. The other is attached to the ceiling, hovering over its partner like a section of the Cross. You are invited to enter the work and stand in the area between the two masses. Youre forced to acknowledge the space above, below, right, left, north, east, south, west, up, down, Serra said. All your psychophysical coordinates, your sense of orientation, are called into question immediately.

There are no special effects here. From above, Sequence (2006) resembles a giant swirling confection from a bakery. It consists of 12 enormous steel plates that collectively weigh 235 tons. In its austere metal planes, you nonetheless sense the soaring forms of the Baroque, the enticing lyricism of the rococo. Kazimir Malevich once said he wanted to reach the zero of form; Serra does this while still creating something.

A section of Serras Torqued Ellipses. Photo: Vincent West/Reuters

It is impossible to talk about Serra without talking about his ill-fated Tilted Arc, a public sculpture commissioned to adorn an ugly plaza in front of a federal building between Lafayette and Centre Streets. When this gargantuan plate of steel was installed in 1981, cutting the plaza like the slash of a knife, it was derided by judges, lawyers, civil servants, politicians, and others who worked in the building. They saw it as a rusty insult. The New York Post stoked the hatred as the art world organized, rallied, signed petitions, staged protests, and authored editorials. The battle was cast in the press as the poor, beleaguered workers versus the rich, snotty art world. In the middle of the night on March 15, 1989, Tilted Arc was dismantled and eventually carted away to a warehouse in Maryland, where it still rests. I still see it in all its invisible glory when I pass the ugly plaza.

Stigma seemed to attach itself to Serra. Indeed, when I reviewed his second full-scale MoMA retrospective in 2007, an excellent bigwig female curator called it big-dick art. In one way, it was true, particularly at the Gagosian Gallery, where Serra and Larry Gagosian, these two alpha males, made pharaonic indoor cathedrals of steel. Serra has also left his masculine imprint on MoMA. At the opening dinner of the 2007 survey, the president of its board of trustees mused to a large crowd, Richard, we built this for you, referring to the recently renovated buildings horribly overscaled second-floor galleries and space-eating five-story atrium.

None of this changes that Serra was tremendous. You see his work with your whole body. Running your fingers along those red rusting plates, wandering down their swooping lines, you become a walking nerve ending, thrillingly alive.
Fatime Letifova

The rapid polarisation of the world has further stimulated a number of states in the West to enjoy the occurrence of inhumane crimes such as conflict, genocide, and terrorism in the East. Because the long-term continuation of wars increases the trade in weapons and drugs and contributes to their "economy".

It's no secret that there are many countries and organisations in the world, including the United States, that present themselves as peace promoters, but in the background, they fuel conflicts, show bias, and use double standards when appropriate. They consider the thousands of people killed as just a number and consider conflicts and wars as a sustainable source of increasing their personal income. For example, the projects of Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq and the current situation of these countries are vivid examples of this.

In addition, it should be noted that for the state and so-called organisations, human life, moral values, and ecological problems are not important at all. On the contrary, they try to boycott the steps taken towards the elimination of conflicts and use various manoeuvres for this. Because the main thing is to make the conflict chronic and make profits out of it.

Recent events in the region once again prove that the only obstacle to the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia is the forces in the West.

The essence of the matter is very simple; that is, Armenia wants peace, but foreign forces prevent it. In a nutshell, the speeches of the Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, showing the model of the map of Armenia in which the four villages of Tavush are not included, indicate that the disputed villages will soon be returned to Azerbaijan and peace negotiations are close.

Long-lasting processes have already led Armenia to take steps towards peace in the South Caucasus. This is clearly manifested in the positions and speeches of the Armenian leadership. While the Armenian side was in full cooperation with the Western forces before, in the current situation, official Yerevan seems to be faced with a dilemma. Even in some cases, in exchange for progressive steps, Yerevan faces pressure from the leadership of France and the European Union.

Illegal territorial claims, accusations of genocide, and similar unfounded statements against Azerbaijan have continued severely since the Second Garabagh War. Now Armenia is lagging behind the West in anti-Azerbaijan propaganda.

In particular, the statements of US and EU officials, which hinder peace and incite hostility in the region, endanger the possibilities of peace.

For example, the mask of the United States, which is currently trying to implement the "dove of peace" mission, dropped in 1992 when it adopted the 907th Amendment, ignored the military occupation of Armenia against Azerbaijan and the expulsion of hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan.

Even after the second Garabagh war, James O'Brien, who served as an Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs of the US State Department, as well as congressional officials, expressed their biased position on the issues in the South Caucasus and openly opposed Azerbaijan's restoration of its territorial integrity.

After these statements, official Baku refused to participate in the meeting of the United States on peace negotiations and declared that it would not be a tool for such games of the United States.

It was after this that US officials claimed that James O'Brien was to blame and insisted on his visit to Baku with requests and apology statements.

Indeed, it is expected that a state that only brings strife and disasters to the territories where it steps will be disgusted with Azerbaijan's liberation of its historical lands from Armenian occupation.

But what is the purpose of Europe, which is considered superior to other regions due to its "gentle" approach?

It is no secret that the liberation of Garabagh from occupation worries not only the United States but also European officials, especially France and the Armenian diaspora here.

The European Union's (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Joseph Borrell, says in almost every speech that Azerbaijan violates Armenia's territorial integrity and threatens that the "occupational" policy will harm relations between Azerbaijan and the EU.

Although Azerbaijan has repeatedly stated that no official body can threaten Baku in this way, European officials are trying to incite the Armenian people more and drag them into war in the region day by day.

Moreover, these institutions are not so zealous because they care about the interests of the Armenian people and the well-being of Armenia.

During the war, everything was in sight. The Western forces, knowing in advance that Armenia would be defeated, watched the process from the outside and occasionally made inappropriate interventions through their chitchat media.

As a result, destroyed lands, broken moral values, spilled blood, and families who lost their relatives are left behind.

People who try to be more Armenian than Armenians can only be so bold in the media. It should not be forgotten that during the 44-day war, none of the people who made these pathetic speeches and threatened Azerbaijan were on the battlefield. At the end of the 44-day war, the Azerbaijani flag was flying in liberated Garabagh.
Kuleba: visit of Ukrainian FM to India is first in last seven years, its goal to strengthen Ukrainian-Indian relations

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said that the main purpose of his first visit to India this week is to strengthen Ukrainian-Indian relations.

"I have already announced that this week, at the invitation of my Indian colleague, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, I will pay a visit to New Delhi. This will be my first visit to this country and the first visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to India in the last seven years. The purpose of this visit is to strengthen Ukrainian-Indian relations," he said during an online briefing with foreign media being in Warsaw.

Kuleba recalled that a week ago, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which issues of bilateral cooperation, trade and the upcoming Global Peace Summit were raised.

"My visit will help implement the agreements reached and continue the development of our relations. Ukraine views India as an important global state with a powerful international voice. We are confident that close cooperation will benefit both our countries," the Minister stressed.

Kuleba informed that during his visit to New Delhi, a number of negotiations are planned, including between the foreign ministers, as well as a meeting of the Ukrainian-Indian intergovernmental commission.

As reported, on January 3, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar discussed cooperation on the Peace Formula in a telephone conversation and agreed to hold the first meeting of the Indian-Ukrainian Intergovernmental Commission since 2018 in the near future.
Mausoleum of Augustus Museum to open in 2026.

Luxury jeweller Bulgari will finance the construction of the Mausoleum of Augustus Museum with funding of 700,000, Rome mayor Roberto Gualtieri said on Tuesday.

The mayor was speaking at the launch of the Bvlgari Foundation whose aim is to "establish new partnerships and strengthen existing ones to create new professional opportunities and specific training projects for new generations in the artisan sector."

The design of the museum layout will be entrusted to the celebrated Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas and its opening will be in 2026, together with the Mausoleum which is still undergoing restoration works.

The new museum at the tomb of Rome's first emperor will be housed inside the mausoleum and will contain all the discoveries made in the surrounding archaeological area, including the head of Venus unearthed last year.

The funding of the museum at the Mausoleum of Augustus is Bulgari's latest act of patronage to the city of Rome, following its restoration of the Spanish Steps, the Largo Argentina archaeological site and now the Vittoriano statues.

#MausoleoDiAugusto, sara la Maison Bulgari a finanziare l'allestimento museale. Affidamento all'archistar #RemKoolhaas: apertura nel 2026, insieme al Mausoleo in fase di restauro.



Per saperne di piu https://t.co/F7WKGmp0OO@Bulgariofficial @Sovrintendenza pic.twitter.com/DAedvTBXU5  Roma (@Roma) March 27, 2024

Separately, Gualtieri said the restyling works in Piazza Augusto Imperatore, the public square surrounding the Mausoleum, will be completed by the end of this year, in time for the Vatican's Jubilee Year 2025.

The mausoleum, which dates to 28 BC, is located alongside Richard Meiers Ara Pacis Museum, which contains Augustuss Altare della Pace to commemorate the peace created by the emperor.

Last year Bulgari inaugurated a luxury five-star hotel facing the Mausoleum of Augustus, after carrying out extensive renovations on a rationalist-style building dating from the fascist era.

The Mausoleum of Augustus opened partially to the public in 2021, after an 80-year closure, following a major restoration funded largely by Italian telecommunications company TIM.
Zelenskyy gets acquainted with construction of fortifications in Sumy region

During a working trip to Sumy region, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy got acquainted with the progress of construction of fortifications near the city of Sumy.

According to his press service, the head of state inspected trenches, dugouts, firing and command and observation posts.

The President was told about a typical project for the construction of a platoon stronghold. It provides, in particular, for the presence of reinforced concrete structures, firing sites for tanks and infantry fighting vehicles, and shelters made of corrugated steel.

It is noted that an important element is also a strip of non-explosive barriers to deter enemy equipment.

In his Telegram channel, the President thanked all those involved in the construction of defense facilities.
ZAGREB, Croatia  With vigils outside clinics, marches drawing thousands and groups of men kneeling to pray in public squares, religious and neo-conservative groups have been ramping up pressure to ban abortions in staunchly Catholic Croatia. The fierce debate has fueled divisions in the European Union nation of about 3.9 million people where abortion remains legal but access to the procedure is often denied, sending many women to neighboring Slovenia to end a pregnancy.

The movement is in stark contrast to Croatias recent past, when it was part of the former Yugoslavia, a Communist-run country that protected abortion rights in its constitution 50 years ago.

I find it incredible that we are even discussing this in the year 2024, said Ana Sunic, a mother of two from Zagreb, Croatias capital. It is every persons basic right to decide what they will do with their body.

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The issue was back in focus this month after France inscribed the right to abortion in its constitution and activists in the Balkans recalled that the former Yugoslavia had done so back in 1974.

Tanja Ignjatovic from the Belgrade-based Autonomous Womens Center in Serbia, another country that was once part of Yugoslavia, noted that women felt abortion rights belonged to us and could not be brought into question. But, she added, we have seen that regression is possible, too.

After Yugoslavia disintegrated in a series of wars in the 1990s, the new countries that emerged kept the old laws in place. However, the post-Communist revival of nationalist, religious and conservative sentiments have threatened that legacy.

Yugoslavias abortion laws stayed intact after Croatia split from the country in 1991, but doctors were granted the right to refuse to perform them in 2003. As a result, many women have traveled to neighboring Slovenia for an abortion over the years.

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The gap between laws and practice is huge, feminist activist Sanja Sarnavka said. Due to the immense influence by conservative groups and the Catholic church it (abortion) is de facto impossible in many places, or severely restricted.

A current campaign by a Za Zivot  for life  movement in Croatia includes prayers, vigils and lectures for the salvation of the unborn and a stop to abortions in our nation.

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A mens organization dubbed Muzevni Budite, or be masculine, is behind the prayers in city squares, where they preach the revival of male dominance and traditional gender roles along with a campaign against abortions.

In 2022, the weekslong ordeal of a woman who had been denied an abortion even though her child had serious health problems caused an uproar and triggered protests in Croatias liberal community.

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Mirela Cavajda was 20 weeks pregnant when doctors informed her that her fetus had a brain tumor and no chance of a normal life. Though the abortion was eventually permitted in Croatia, Cavajde had it performed in Slovenia.

As many as 207 Croatian women traveled to a single border hospital in Slovenia that same year for the procedure, a study by Croatian obstetrician Jasenka Grujic showed.

The percentage of doctors who refuse to perform abortions as conscientious objectors reaches 100% in some Croatian hospitals, the study found. The objectors include not only obstetricians but also anaesthesiologists and other doctors needed for the procedure, Grujic said.

Croatias medical community is deeply divided, Grujic wrote in the analysis she made available to The Associated Press. I hope this trend of actual unavailability of abortion will be reversed. That is so dangerous for womens health and lives.

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Yugoslav physicians first considered legalizing abortion back in 1935, and that became a reality in the 1950s. Pushed forward by a womens organization born out of World War II, the right to abortion was later included in Yugoslavias constitution.

Stating that it is the right of a human being to freely decide on the birth of children, Yugoslavias constitution did not explicitly guarantee abortion, as Frances does. But it nonetheless gave Yugoslav women easy access to terminate pregnancies in clinics throughout the former six-member federation.

Frances decision reminded us that we had that right in the 1974 constitution, which means exactly 50 years before France, Ignjatovic said.

Elsewhere in the former Yugoslavia, Serbia and Slovenia have included the freedom to choose whether to have children in their constitutions. Bosnias women can legally obtain abortion during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, though economic impediments exist in the impoverished, post-war country.

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Baffled, blindsided and distressed. Thats how Ali Elliin says members of the Iranian-Australian community feel about the Albanese governments proposed immigration changes that could ban their extended family members and friends from entering the country.

Under the changes, the immigration minister could prevent foreigners from particular countries from entering Australia, even as tourists, if their home country refuses to accept the return of failed asylum seekers. Iran, Iraq, Russia, South Sudan and Zimbabwe are the countries most likely to be targeted as removal concern countries.

Ali Elliin and his wife Sohila at their home in Sydney. Credit: James Brickwood

We didnt expect the Australian government to do anything like this, said Elliin, director of the Aknoon Cultural Centre, which provides social and cultural services for Sydneys Iranian diaspora.

Its worse than anything Obama did, anything Trump did.
Telstra chief executive Vicki Brady has revealed a series of cascading failures led to the triple zero outage earlier this month that crippled emergency service communications across five states and left more than 100 Australians impacted, including one man who later passed away.

Brady said on Wednesday that Telstra had completed a review into the 90-minute March 1 outage, finding that a litany of factors was responsible, including issues with Calling Line Identification (CLI)  the service that provides emergency workers with the location and phone number of the person calling  and subsequent errors in Telstras processes and communication.

She said the incident started at 3.30am on March 1, when an issue with CLI was discovered affecting calls coming through to triple zero.

Vicki Brady, Telstras CEO, speaks to reporters. Credit: Ben Symons

Our technical team immediately began investigating the cause of the issue and working on a fix, while our triple-zero team enacted our backup process, she said.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that the number of victims as a result of the Russian army dropping large-caliber ammunition in Kharkiv has increased to 19, and people are receiving the necessary assistance.

Kharkiv. Russian terror against the city is becoming increasingly heinous. Russia continues to try to force over a million people into a blackout, as well as to launch missiles and Shahed drones on a regular basis. There are now aerial bombs as well. They struck an ordinary street, houses, a school, and ordinary civilian infrastructure. As of now, one person has been reported killed. My condolences to the victim's loved ones, the President said on Telegram.

According to him, at least 19 people have already been injured, including children.

At least 19 people were injured, including two children: a girl born in 2022 and a boy born in 2023. All of the victims are receiving the necessary assistance. All services are on the scene, and I am grateful to everyone who is working to restore Kharkiv's normal life day after day, Zelenskyy said.

He also stressed that strengthening the Ukrainian air defense and accelerating the provision of F-16s to Ukraine by partners are vital tasks.

There are no rational explanations for why Patriots, which are plentiful around the world, are still not covering the skies of Kharkiv and other cities and communities under attack by Russian terrorists. Every day, we work to provide better protection for our people and Ukraine, the head of state stated.

Earlier, head of Kharkiv Regional Military Administration Oleh Synehubov reported that the Russians attacked Kharkiv with a powerful guided UMPB-30 ammunition (the explosion force is an average between an air bomb and a missile).
The 44th Session of the WCO Enforcement Committee (EC) convened from 18 to 22 March 2024 at the WCO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, drawing participation from approximately 350 delegates, out of whom half participated in-person. The Session was animated by 80 speakers from the Customs administrations, private sector, other intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations.

The EC provided updates and developments related to nine programme areas, namely Environment; Drugs; Security; Intelligence and Risk Management; Customs Enforcement Network (CEN) and Cargo Targeting System (CTS); IPR, Health and Safety; Revenue Fraud; Customs Operational Practices for Enforcement and Seizures (COPES); and Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing.

In line with the topic of the year, a special session of this Enforcement Committee was dedicated to Enforcement Through Partnerships. Notable discussions included the fusion of the Container Control Programme and Project AIRCOP, as well as Australian Border Force (ABF)-WCO Supply Chain Integrity Project.

Throughout five days, panel discussions delved into a variety of topics, such as the use of Open-source Intelligence (OSINT) in Customs enforcement, smart maritime enforcement, building a global coalition to address synthetic drugs threat, and forging partnerships to effectively investigate and prosecute Customs fraud.

The EC showcased ongoing and future activities across various programmes, including regional and global enforcement operations, coordinated by the WCO, such as a joint WCO-INTERPOL Operation THUNDER, and Operation DEMETER in the environmental domain, Operation STOP III in the IPR domain. Additionally, Member-led initiatives, such as Operation Sesha IV on countering illicit trans-boundary movement of timber, and Operation Jubilarean 2 on revenue fraud, were also discussed.

In the environmental domain, delegates discussed and endorsed the draft guidelines for developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for controls of waste shipments.

Under Drugs Programme, updates on the EU-WCO Colibri Project and WCO Synthetic Drugs Detection Project were presented. The delegates also provided guidance to the Secretariat on the WCO Standards for Dog Training Centres that will be developed next year.

Within the scope of the Security Programme, the Secretariat provided the delegates with the preliminary results of the Global Survey on Customs Capacity to Clear Controlled Chemicals, while Member Administrations shared their experience with participating in Projects Bolt and RANDA. An update to the list of controlled explosive precursors by the Programme Global Shield (PGS) was extensively discussed, and the delegates provided the Secretariat with the way forward on how to amend the list.

The delegates also discussed the used of current and new tools, including the WCO CEN database, whereby Members were encouraged to submit more data in order to enable creating more comprehensive analytical products and statistics, as well as two new projects related to the launch of the Global Image Concealment Database and a project to develop the Data Analysis Dashboard for Post-Control Audit (PCA). The curriculum on Digital Forensics and Online Investigations was also approved by the delegates during the Session.

The Enforcement Committee also discussed the work conducted by the Anti Money-Laundering and Counter Terrorist Financing Programme, including an upcoming Hot Zone Prioritisation Forum in July 2024.

In his closing remarks, Mr Pranab Kumar Das, Director of the WCO Enforcement and Facilitation Directorate, underlined that enforcement and compliance remains a very interesting area for Customs in that it provides solutions and appropriate responses for dismantling criminal networks. I am very proud of the extraordinary achievements of this Committee, which remains a compass for the entire Customs community in the fight against fraud. The Secretariat is committed to providing ongoing support to its Members in dealing with current and future threats, while further developing Customs expertise in this area, he added.

In conclusion, the Enforcement Committee expressed gratitude to outgoing Chairperson, Mr David Dolan from the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Vice Chairperson, Ms Gabrielle Tramby from the Australian Border Force (ABF). The Committee elected Mr Hugo Richard Mayer from the Austrian Customs as the Chairperson and Ms Rebecca Jonassen from New Zealand Customs as a Vice-Chairperson of the 45th Enforcement Committee.
WCO Anti-Corruption & Integrity Promotion (A-CIP) and Sida WCO Trade Facilitation and Customs Modernization (TFCM) Programmes organized on 18-22 March 2024, a series of workshops in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar & Holili, in the United Republic of Tanzania in cooperation with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA). The workshops aimed to raise awareness of the Authorized Economic Operator Programme (AEO) among Other Government Agencies (OGA) to support the TRA in increasing the implementation of the national AEO Programme. The workshops provided detailed information about the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards, the WCO AEO Programme, the TRA national AEO Programme, the benefits that the Programme currently offers, requirements to be part of the initiative, potential new benefits to be included and areas for collective action to combat corruption and promote integrity with the ultimate aim of facilitating trade.

WCO Experts and the TRA AEO Unit engaged with representatives of Customs and OGAs working at the border to discuss possible enhancements to the AEO Programme with the aim to achieve more significant benefits for operators and effectively implement the AEO. Discussions contributed to the TRA-specific priority under the A-CIP Programme: Implementation of Customs regulatory framework harmonized with international standards. In particular, this outcome relates to the implementation of article 7.7 of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and the EAC regional AEO Programme. Under the Sida WCO TFCM Programme, these workshops aimed to advance the technical capacity of TRA officers to implement the AEO Programme.

The workshops complemented previous missions in March 2023, where activities focused on raising awareness among importers and exporters on the benefits of joining the Tanzanian AEO Programme.

The WCO A-CIP Programme currently supports over 20 WCO Member administrations, with funding from Norad and Canada. The Sida-WCO TFCM Programme contributes to trade facilitation and Customs modernization for sustainable development in Sub-Sahara Africa, with funding from Sweden. The Programme supports the implementation of the WTO TFA through technical assistance and capacity building for the beneficiary countries Customs administrations in East and Southern Africa, including the TRA.

For more information, please contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org
Zelenskyy announces availability of significant amount of funds for current year for all countrys regions under Made in Ukraine program

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during a working visit to Sumy region, will take part in the first regional meeting on the new Made in Ukraine economic policy program.

For the first time, our new economic policy program Made in Ukraine was discussed at a regional meeting in Sumy. This year, there are significant financial resources available for all regions of our state, including the Sumy region, which is guaranteed, he said in an evening video address.

So, according to him, following the results of this meeting, there are already specific tasks for members of the government, the State Property Fund, the Presidents Office and regional authorities, as well as signed contracts for the Ukrainian military-industrial complex.

In particular, Zelenskyy announced the availability of new contracts for automated firing systems, new FPV drones, simulators for mobile fire groups, which help shoot down the Shaheds more effectively.

"I am proud that every month more and more companies, more and more developers offer specific samples of weapons, shells, equipment, mine clearance machines and everything that is needed at the front and will save the lives of our people," he said.

In addition, during his visit to Sumy region, the President held a longterm coordination meeting on internal security issues in the region - from shelters to crime prevention, and on all defense issues.

"Very substantive. As for the economy and the social situation: now the general task is for the government, the regional authorities and the heads of communities to give every opportunity so that there are jobs here in our Sumy region, so that social protection works, so that there are reliable budget revenues," Zelenskyy said.
Umerov, Syrsky talk via video link with new Lithuanian Defense Minister, invite him to Kyiv in near future

Minister of Defense of Ukraine Rustem Umerov, together with Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky, have held a video call with Minister of Defense of Lithuania Laurynas Kasciunas, who was congratulated on his recent appointment to the post.

According to the press service of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces Valdemaras Rupsys also took part in the video call.

Syrsky informed his colleagues about the operational security situation at the front.

"We discussed ways to expand our bilateral defense cooperation and thanked Lithuania for its unwavering support. I am looking forward to the visit of Minister Kasciunas to Kyiv in the near future," Umerov said.
Top educators earn new title: Brady Presidential Distinguished Professor

March 27, 2024

OGDEN, Utah  Continuing a 19-year tradition, Weber State University announced the newest Brady Presidential Distinguished Professors, with this years recipients representing the fields of communication, nursing, and physics and astronomy.

Named after the late Rodney Brady who served as WSU president from 1978 to 1985, the honor recognizes WSU professors who demonstrate the highest quality teaching, scholarship, research and community service. Rodney and Carolyn Brady provided a generous gift to fund this annual honor.

Colin Inglefield

As chair of the physics and astronomy department, Inglefield exemplifies excellence in teaching, scholarship and service. Over the years, he has taken on a diverse and challenging teaching load, often going beyond the standard curriculum  from giving bed of nails demonstrations to leading book discussions. He also provides one-on-one mentorship to pre-med students and future engineers.

As a scholar, Inglefield develops solid state and materials research projects that involve Weber State students. As a materials scientist, he collaborates with faculty across the university to provide interdisciplinary microscopy projects for students. Inglefield has contributed to 26 publications, six of which included undergraduates. He also coordinates and presents at events like the Physics Open House, which draws hundreds of visitors each year. He has been involved in the American Physical Society and Society of Physics Students, and has hosted a meeting of the Four Corners section of the APS at WSU. His research and expertise have influenced curriculum in physics departments across Utahs higher education system.

Throughout his many years as department chair, Inglefield has helped students and colleagues achieve their greatest potential. He genuinely supports the work of others and uses his role to carve out opportunities for faculty and staff to pursue the best work they can do. He has fostered a culture of support and success, evidenced by countless physics students who moved on to graduate studies and satisfying careers under his mentorship, as well as a department that has earned the universitys top awards.

Melissa NeVille Norton

During her 14 years at Weber State, NeVille Norton has served as an accomplished visionary leader, having overseen both the Master of Science in Nursing program and the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, where her transformational leadership style helped develop programs that have earned national recognition and experienced growth. Thanks to her leadership and outstanding faculty, the MSN program ranked in FORTUNE's Best Online Master's in Nursing Programs and received Princeton Review's 2022 Best Online Nursing School Master's Programs. NeVille Norton also guided the accreditation process for both graduate programs in nursing with outstanding results, including full accreditati on status of Weber State's first doctoral program.

Through her passion for creating evidence-based instructional design infrastructure, high-impact student education experiences, and clear pathways for student success, NeVille Norton has contributed significantly to the school's course development, program development, and instructional enhancements in graduate nursing education and assessment. For these efforts, she received the Presidential Teaching Excellence Award. In all this, she has maintained her registered nurse and advanced practice registered nurse licensure and certification since 2001. She continues to serve as a pediatric nurse practitioner at a free clinic, engaging with her community and supporting underserved populations through her clinical and philanthropic work.

NeVille Norton is accomplished with program and institutional assessment. As chair of the Appointment, Promotion, Academic Freedom and Tenure committee, she helped implement a university-wide end-of-course evaluation process and streamlined the tenure document, earning her the WSU Faculty Governance Award. Recently, she was appointed Chair of the Graduate Council and entrusted with the responsibility of spearheading the development and implementation of the university's Office of Graduate Studies initiative.

Sarah Steimel

Steimels contributions to her students, department, college and the university are exemplary. As a communication professor, her research and teaching interests are in organizational communication, diverse people in organizations, and research methods, with a major part of her research focusing on communication in nonprofit organizations. Since starting at WSU in 2011, Steimel has racked up 17 publications in leading academic journals and books, and 44 presentations at academic conferences to include the National Communication Association. Her work is often singled out for excellence by h er peers, having received Top Paper or Top Four Paper five times. She was a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Award in 2020 to conduct extensive research in online education. In this area, she has incorporated best practices into her own career, with research published in the International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education.

Steimel draws glowing reviews from students in WSUs Master of Professional Communication program. She earned the Presidential Teaching Excellence Award in 2018 and has twice been a finalist for the Western States Communication Association Distinguished Teaching Award. Shes known as a champion of student research, having chaired five thesis committees for graduate students and led 10 students in independent study or research projects.

Aside from all this, she also finds time to serve as reviewer for several journals and as elected school board chair for the DaVinci Academy charter school. At WSU, she has served as Director for the MPC Program, Director of Graduate Studies, and recently transitioned to Associate Dean of the Telitha E. Lindquist College of Arts & Humanities. She has also run the Engaged Learning Series for the Center for Community Engaged Learning from 2013 to 2015. In all these roles, she has made profound impacts and has always prioritized student success.
The Asset Recovery and Management Agency (ARMA) forecasts UAH 8-10 billion of revenue to the state budget from the management of seized assets and their sale in Ukraine and abroad during this year, ARMA Chairman Olena Duma said at the presentation of the annual report about the agency's activities.

In particular, ARMA plans to attract a billion or more hryvnias from the management of seized assets, their sale in Ukraine, as well as by increasing the portfolio of military bonds of government war bonds.

At the same time, ARMA expects revenues of UAH 5 billion or more from the sale of seized assets abroad.

According to published data, in 2023, revenues to the state budget from ARMA amounted to UAH 191 million, of which UAH 101.3 million came from asset management (in 2022 - UAH 34.79 million), and UAH 89.7 million came from other income, including from the sale of assets (no revenues in 2022).
A 1972 film about the IRA was directed by a Nazi hunter with ties to Israeli intelligence, a new BBC programme reveals.

The Secret Army follows journalist Darragh MacIntyre as he attempts to unravel the mystery surrounding the making of an extraordinary American documentary, filmed inside the IRA in 1972 but which vanished for almost 50 years.

The lost film includes footage of Martin McGuinness, then a rising young IRA leader, sitting in a car that was later used to bomb Derry. It also shows the late Sinn Fein politician displaying a gun and ammunition to children.

The documentary had been due to be released worldwide, but instead it had just a few showings in the United States, of which one was positively reviewed in the Irish Times by a US correspondent.

Martin McGuinness was filmed in the car on a backstreet in Derry's Bogside

During his investigation, MacIntyre uncovers the original film reels in New York. He investigates how this documentary was made and finds one of the American production team who was present in the North for the filming during the bloodiest year of the Troubles.

MacIntyre also tracks down some of the former IRA men who appeared in the documentary.

The BBC investigation found that the director of the 1972 documentary, Zwy Aldouby, was an Israeli writer and journalist who had been a Nazi-hunter after the second World War.

Zwy Aldouby (left) interviewing IRA member Rita O'Hare during filming of The Secret Army in 1972

The CIA had been gathering intelligence on him and, according to declassified CIA documents seen by the BBC, Aldouby was working under the guidance of Israeli intelligence during the filming of the IRA documentary.

Former IRA members who took part in the film and spoke to the BBC said they were unaware of Aldouby's intelligence connections.

The Secret Army will be broadcast on BBC Two Northern Ireland on March 27th at 9pm, and BBC Four on April 2nd at 10pm.
There are concerns about Genfitt moving out of Kiltimagh, writes Keith Bourke.

Genfitt was established in the East Mayo town in 1973 and has grown to be the largest independent wholesale supplier of components, machinery parts and spares to the agricultural industry in Ireland. Genfitt Ireland was acquired by Dutch firm Kramp last year.

Kiltimagh-based Cllr Adrian Forkan told last week's meeting of Mayo Co Council that there are concerns locally that the company may be seeking to relocate elsewhere. He said rumours are swirling about the company potentially moving from its Kiltimagh base. He said other towns in the county, including Claremorris, have been mentioned as a possible new home for the firm.

It would be a a huge loss to the town, said Cllr Forkan, adding that moving 50 jobs out of Kiltimagh, even to another town in the county, would be a hammer blow.

You might as well put the shutters down, remarked Cllr Forkan, who noted that the town has already lost two banks as well as several retailers in recent years.

Cllr John Caulfield also expressed his concern about the issue.

Every effort should be made to ensure Genfitt remains in Kiltimagh."

Council chief executive Kevin Kelly said it was his understanding that a site in Kiltimagh has recently been offered to the company.
Elected members of Mayo County Council have said a Westport national school is the victim of "blatant discrimination".

Holy Trinity National School in Westport has recently been told that its Altamont Street site will now be used as temporary accommodation for the Sacred Heart Secondary School.

The Department of Education informed the Board of Management of Holy Trinity NS that it has identified the old Scoil Phadraig NS building and the site on Altamount Street as a "solution for urgent temporary accommodation needs" for the Sacred Heart Secondary School in Westport. The building had been earmarked as the location for a new home for the Church of Ireland national school.

Holy Trinity NS had been battling for almost 15 years to secure a new school after its modest building was deemed not fit for purpose by the Department. After many false dawns, the school finally believed their new location was secure and design plans were drawn up.

At a recent meeting, the Department of Education was unable to tell Holy Trinity representatives how long the site would be used by Sacred Heart.

Cllr Brendan Mulroy said the Department of Education is "picking on a Church of Ireland school", and accused it of "using an iron fist".

Its absolutely shocking, said the Fianna Fail councillor who said he has contacted Minister for Education and party colleague Norma Foley on the matter.

Its totally wrong, added Independent Cllr Christy Hyland. "The Department of Education is dividing two communities," he stated.

This smacks of discrimination, added Independent Cllr John OMalley.

Cllr Hyland asked that the council step in and offer an alternative site for the temporary classrooms needed by the Sacred Heart Secondary School. He suggested the former Convent site in the town could be utlised. However, the council's chief executive Kevin Kelly did not believe this proposal would be possible.
A father of four who sustained fatal head injuries after falling on Croagh Patrick has been praised for donating his body to medical science.

Pat O'Mahony, aged 78, with an address at Harbour View, Westport, died at Mayo University Hospital (MUH) on November 19, 2023, two days after he sustained severe head injuries.

An inquest at Swinford Courthouse heard that the retiree visited The Helm Restaurant in Westport for breakfast on the morning of the accident, as he had done for seven years. Employee Mary Kilroy said Mr O'Mahony was in good form and told her he intended to climb Croagh Patrick, also called 'The Reek'.

"I advised him the weather was not great, but he said he was an experienced hillwalker," she added.

Neilus Fitzpatrick, who was hiking separately on Croagh Patrick, was one of the first to come to the assistance of Mr OMahony.

In a statement, Mr Fitzpatrick said he observed a man lying on the ground surrounded by five people. Mr O'Mahony's eyes were open and he was breathing, but there was blood coming from an ear.

"People on the mountain moved around him to keep him warm," he added.

A helicopter arrived a short time later and Mr Fitzpatrick helped to place Mr O'Mahony into a harness before he was hoisted into the helicopter and rushed to MUH. However, he died two days later in the hospitals intensive care unit.

Consultant pathologist Dr Tamas Nemeth, who carried out a post-mortem, told the inquest that Mr O'Mahony died as a result of traumatic brain haemorrhage, base of skull fracture and head injury, which were caused by a fall. Dr Nemeth said the severity of the injuries meant there was little chance of survival, even if Mr O'Mahony was transferred to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin.

Dr Nemeth said it was deeply commendable that Mr OMahony opted to donate his body for medical research.

This selfless act contributed significantly to the advancement of medical science. His contribution will aid in the education of medical professionals and researchers, potentially saving and improving countless lives in the future," he said. His generosity in making such a decision reflects a profound commitment to the welfare of others and his legacy will continue through the knowledge gained from his contribution."

Recording a verdict of accidental death, coroner Patrick O'Connor said the tragedy showed the dangers involved in climbing Croagh Patrick.

"It is important that when people are climbing they are aware of the conditions and weather but also of their own medical condition."

Mr O'Connor described Mr O'Mahony's decision to donate his body to medical science as "a selfless act".

A member of the OMahony family thanked all those who assisted their father, especially the staff at MUH. Mr O'Connor sympathised with the family, while Sgt Greg Fleming offered the condolences of An Garda Siochana.
Farmers were urged to "get militant" after they addressed a meeting of Mayo County Council.

Mayo IFA members attended a meeting of the local authority last week to highlight several serious issues for the farming community.

Over the past number of weeks, farmers across mainland Europe have been voicing their anger and frustration at the ever-increasing administrative burden being placed on them," John Lynskey, chairman of Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) in Mayo, told the meeting. These frustrations have broadened into anger with European and National lawmakers over the massive increase in regulations relating to agriculture. The EU, the Irish Government and local government are devising policies far from the farm gate with little or no consideration of the direct impact on farmers."

Mr Lynskey highlighted CAP and trade deal issues and overly complicated schemes that are causing widespread delays in payments to farmers.

The Nature Restoration Law was blasted for the restrictions it places on farmers and local farmers feel agricultural emissions are not being measured fairly. Mayo IFA also criticised the "shambolic management of Irelands forestry policy".

At a more local level, planning and water charge issues were among the problems being encountered. Mayo farmers are also concerned about the use of compulsory purchase orders to facilitate the construction of greenways.

Councillors agreed to back the IFA's "enough is enough" campaign and passed a resolution that recognises the significant contribution farming and the agri-sector make to the Irish and local economy. The council acknowledged the income challenge on Irish farmers arising from the significant increases in the cost of doing business, regulatory costs and cuts in basic income supports.

Councillors also called on the Government to introduce no further regulations on farmers or any measures that may increase costs on farms without full negotiation and agreement with the IFA. The council called on the European Union and the Irish Government to provide additional stand-alone funding, separate from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), to support farmers to undertake climate and biodiversity measures.

Westport-based Fianna Fail Cllr Brendan Mulroy urged IFA members to escalate their action.

The peaceful protests are over. Its time for the farmers to become militant, said Cllr Mulroy.

He warned that the situation with the proposed Belclare to Murrisk Greenway could become a "test case" for the use of CPO to facilitate projects of this type.
BALTIMORE (AP)  The cargo ship that lost power and crashed into a bridge in Baltimore underwent routine engine maintenance in port beforehand, the U.S. Coast Guard said Wednesday, as divers recovered the bodies of two of six workers who plunged into the water when it collapsed. The others were presumed dead, and officials said search efforts had been exhausted.

Investigators began collecting evidence from the vessel a day after it struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The bodies of the two men were located in the morning inside a red pickup submerged in about 25 feet (7.6 meters) of water near the bridges middle span, Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent of Maryland State Police, announced at an evening news conference.

He identified the men as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, who was from Mexico and living in Baltimore, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, who was from Guatemala and living in Dundalk, Maryland.

The victims, who were part of a construction crew fixing potholes on the bridge, were from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, Butler said.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore addressed their families in Spanish during the news conference, saying, Estamos contigo, ahora y siempre, which means, we are with you, now and always.

All search efforts have been exhausted, and based on sonar scans, authorities firmly believe the other vehicles with victims are encased in material from the collapsed bridge, Butler said. Divers are to resume searching once the debris is cleared.

Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said at the news conference that authorities were informed that the ship was going to undergo the maintenance.

As far as the engine goes, we were not informed of any problems with the vessel, he said.

The Baltimore region has reeled from the sudden loss of a major transportation link that's part of the highway loop around the city. The disaster also closed the port, which is vital to the city's shipping industry.

National Transportation Safety Board officials boarded the ship to recover information from its electronics and paperwork and to interview the captain and other crew members, NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said during a separate news conference. Twenty-three people, including two pilots, were on the ship when it crashed, she said.

The vessel was also carrying 56 containers of hazardous materials including corrosives, flammables and lithium ion batteries, Homendy said. She added that some containers were breached, and that a sheen on the water from those materials would be handled by authorities.

Marcel Muise, NTSB investigator in charge, laid out a preliminary timeline assembled from the voyage data recorder comprising audio from the bridge and VHF radio ahead of the crash, which federal and state officials have said appeared to be an accident.

The vessel, the Dali, left port at 12:39 a.m. Tuesday and, after it entered the channel, signs of trouble came at about 1:25 a.m. when numerous alarms sounded, according to the NTSB. About a minute later, steering commands and rudder orders were issued, and at 1:26 a.m. and 39 seconds, a pilot made a general radio call for nearby tug boats.

Maryland Transportation Authority data from about the same time shows the pilot association dispatcher called the transportation authority's officer on duty about the blackout, the NTSB said.

Just after 1:27 a.m., the pilot commanded the ship to drop an anchor on the left side of the ship and issued added steering commands. About 20 seconds later, the pilot issued a radio call reporting that the Dali had lost all power approaching the bridge.

At about that time, the state transportation officer on duty radioed two of its units already stationed at each end of the bridge saying to close the bridge to vehicle traffic. They were already there because of the construction.

Around 1:29 a.m., when the ship was traveling at about 8 mph (13 kph), recordings for about 30 seconds picked up sounds consistent with it colliding with the bridge, the NTSB said. A Transportation Authority dash camera also shows lights on the bridge going out.

At 1:29 a.m. and 39 seconds, the pilot reported to the Coast Guard that the bridge was down.

Muise said experts will review the entire voyage data recording and develop a detailed transcript.

At least eight people initially went into the water when the ship struck the bridge column, and two of them were rescued Tuesday, officials said.

Traffic was still crossing the span as the ship approached, and some vehicles appeared to escape with only seconds to spare. The crash caused the bridge to break and fall into the water within seconds.

Authorities had just enough time to stop vehicle traffic. One officer parked sideways across the lanes and planned to drive onto the bridge to alert the construction crew once another officer arrived, but he did not get a chance.

The debris complicated the search for the workers, according to a Homeland Security memo described to The Associated Press by a law enforcement official who was not authorized to discuss details of the document or the investigation and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Gov. Moore said the divers faced dangerous conditions, among the mangled metal and low visibility.

They are down there in darkness where they can literally see about a foot in front of them, Moore said.

The Dali, which is managed by Synergy Marine Group, was headed from Baltimore to Sri Lanka. It is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd., and Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered it.

The vessel passed foreign port state inspections in June and September 2023. In the June inspection, a faulty monitor gauge for fuel pressure was rectified before departure, Singapores port authority said.

The ship was traveling under a Singapore flag, and officials there said they will conduct their own investigation in addition to supporting U.S. authorities.

The sudden loss of a highway that carries 30,000 vehicles a day and the port disruption will affect not only thousands of dockworkers and commuters but also U.S. consumers who are likely to feel the impact of shipping delays.

A lot of people dont realize how important the port is just to everything, said Cat Watson, who used the bridge to get to work every day and lives close enough that she was awakened by the collision. Were going to be feeling it for a very long time.

Baltimore is a busy entry point for vehicles made in Germany, Mexico, Japan and the United Kingdom, along with coal and farm equipment.

Ship traffic has been suspended indefinitely. Windward Maritime, a maritime risk-management company, said its data shows a large increase in ships that are waiting for a port to go to, with some anchored outside Baltimore or nearby Annapolis.

At the White House, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said the Biden administration was focused on reopening the port and rebuilding the bridge, which was completed in 1977. He did not put a timeline on those efforts, while noting that the original bridge took five years to construct.

Buttigieg also planned to meet Thursday with supply chain officials.

Barges, including some with cranes, were on their way to help remove the wreckage, Gilreath said.

Homendy said the NTSB investigation could take 12 to 24 months but the agency may issue urgent safety recommendations sooner. A preliminary report should come in two to four weeks.

Its a massive undertaking for an investigation, Homendy said.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, according to the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Witte reported from Dundalk, Maryland. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report, including Nathan Ellgren, Colleen Long, Sarah Brumfield, Rebecca Santana, Jake Offenhartz, Joshua Goodman, Ben Finley, Claudia Lauer, Juliet Linderman, Josh Boak, David McHugh, John Seewer, Michael Kunzelman, Mike Catalini, Sarah Rankin and Lisa Baumann.
On March 26, Kyiv hosted the presentation of the new season of the visionary women's accelerator "Vzvazhna 2. Scaling and Digitalization". Its goal is to help Ukrainian women start or develop an existing business. The new season of the Vzvazhna accelerator is a logical continuation of the first iteration of the project and is aimed at digitalizing and scaling up their own business.

"The development of Ukrainian entrepreneurship is one of the main priorities of the Ministry of Digital Transformation. That is why we have launched the Diia.Business project and are implementing services in Diia that accelerate and simplify the launch and scaling of your own business. We also continue to implement programs and initiatives that help entrepreneurs develop their businesses. One of them is the visionary accelerator Vzvazhna, which has united a community of 5,000 entrepreneurs. In the first season, the project's winners raised UAH 1.3 million to develop their businesses. The new season will allow us to launch and scale even more businesses, as small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of our economy," said Mykhailo Fedorov, Vice Prime Minister for Innovation, Education, Science and Technology, Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine.

"Vzvazhna offers future and active entrepreneurs a 4-month course in financial planning and management, marketing and sales, business digitalization tools, taxation, accounting, and tools for entering foreign markets.

"Supporting Ukrainian women on their way to entrepreneurship has always been one of our priorities. Especially now, when 60% of new sole proprietorships are started by women. Last year, together with our partners, we launched the Vzvazhna accelerator. It brought together thousands of women entrepreneurs in a large community. Each participant gained the necessary knowledge and support on their way to starting or scaling their own business. Their stories inspired us to continue the program. Today, we are launching the second season of the accelerator to provide even more opportunities for Ukrainian women in the entrepreneurial sphere," said Valeria Ionan, Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine for European Integration.

Based on the results of the training, 40 participants will receive UAH 100,000 each to implement their business ideas. At the final event, Grand Pitch Day, 12 finalists will compete for the main project incentive in the following categories: "Debutante, Visionary, and Barrier-Free Business Project. The three business projects with the highest scores from the jury will each receive an additional UAH 400,000 to develop their own business.

"The successful launch of the Vzvazhna project is an appropriate and timely occasion to emphasize the need to digitalize even more Ukrainian SMEs, which is one of Visa's main focuses. The goal of this year's accelerator is to scale and take the businesses of brave Ukrainian women to the next level. Owning their own successful business gives women access to shaping the country's economic agenda, financial independence and mobility, creating new jobs, increasing production or services, filling the state budget with taxes, and, as a result, strengthening Ukraine's role on the global business map. Mza is ready to support entrepreneurs in every step of their journey, thus expanding access to the digital economy," said Svitlana Chyrva, Vice President, Regional Manager for Ukraine and Moldova at Visa.

The accelerator will combine two learning formats:

Online learning, where participants will follow a general educational program based on the principles of practicality, interactivity, and leading approaches in business education led by leading speakers. The online modules will be delivered by representatives of Visa, USAID, monobank, Checkbox, Shop-Express, Ukrposhta, and others.

Offline and virtual bootcamps based on 10 Diia.Business entrepreneur support centers, where participants will receive in-depth business training and mentoring. Preference for participation in the bootcamps will be given to barrier-free business projects and those who are ready to implement these principles in their businesses.

The accelerator participants will also receive additional offers that will accelerate business digitalization from Visa: monobank, Ukrposhta, Checkbox, Shop-Express.

"According to a study on the needs and problems of women entrepreneurs, more than a third of Ukrainian women surveyed say that one of the most common obstacles is lack of access to free training programs, noting financial literacy as one of the most popular areas for improving competencies. It is important to note that other important areas of development identified by entrepreneurs are the digitalization of business processes and the systematization of information. All of this data is concrete evidence that future and active entrepreneurs are striving to improve their skills, develop their own businesses, scale up, and innovate. The Vzvazhna accelerator will become a catalyst for meeting these needs by providing the necessary knowledge and resources for successful business operations," said Andriy Remizov, Director of the State Agency "Office for Entrepreneurship and Export Development."

The accelerator participants will also receive additional offers that will accelerate business digitalization from Viza's partners: TopBank, Ukrposhta, Checkbox, Shop-Express.

"According to a study on the needs and problems of women entrepreneurs, more than a third of Ukrainian women surveyed say that one of the most common obstacles is lack of access to free training programs, noting financial literacy as one of the most popular areas for improving competencies. It is important to note that other important areas of development identified by entrepreneurs are the digitalization of business processes and the systematization of information. All of this data is concrete evidence that future and active entrepreneurs are striving to improve their skills, develop their own businesses, scale up, and innovate. The Vzvazhna accelerator will become a catalyst for meeting these needs by providing the necessary knowledge and resources for successful business operations," said Andriy Remizov, Director of the State Agency "Office for Entrepreneurship and Export Development."

To learn more about the project and apply for participation, please visit the Program's landing page here: https://www.vidvazhna.com.ua/#about. The application deadline is April 28, 2024 (23:59).

The project will run from April to September 2024. You can watch the recording of the Program presentation here.

In 2023, Vzvazhna brought together more than 5,000 Ukrainian women who received online and offline training at 10 Diia.Business entrepreneurial support centers. As a result of the program, 6 Ukrainian women raised UAH 1.3 million to start and develop their own businesses.

The new season of the visionary women's accelerator "Vzvazhna 2. Scaling and Digitalization" is being implemented by the Diia.Business network of entrepreneur support centers with the assistance of the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, the Office for Entrepreneurship and Export Development, and with the support of the USAID Ukraine Confidence Building Initiative (UCBI) and the global initiative She's Next Empowered by Visa.
BOSTON (AP)  Financially embattled hospital operator Steward Health Care has struck a deal to sell its nationwide physician network to Optum, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, as it works to stabilize its finances.

The move comes as Gov. Maura Healey has said state monitors are keeping eye on the nine health care facilities operated by Steward Health Care in Massachusetts, including hospitals in some of the states poorer communities.

The Dallas-based company operates more than 30 hospitals nationwide.

Before the sale can be completed, the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission must review the proposal.

The commission doesnt have the authority to block a transaction but can refer findings to the state Attorney General's office, the Department of Public Health, or other Massachusetts agencies for possible further action.

The documents filed with the state did not include a cost for the transaction. Under the deal, Optum would aquire a Steward affiliate that includes the companys primary care doctors and other clinicians in nine states.

Health Policy Commission Executive Director David Seltz said the panel is committed to a rigorous, data-driven oversight of health care market changes to bring important information to the public.

He said details of the proposal will be studied to examine potential effects on health care costs, quality, access and equity. The sale cant be completed until after the commissions review and any additional reviews by state or federal antitrust authorities.

This is a significant proposed change involving two large medical providers, both in Massachusetts and nationally, with important implications for the delivery and cost of health care across Massachusetts, Seltz said in a statement.

Emails to Steward Health Care and Optum seeking comment were not immediately returned.

The commission's review of the transaction shouldn't delay state and federal antitrust authorities from doing their own review to protect patient access and affordability, Democratic Massachusetts House Speaker Ronald Mariano said.

Once all required information has been provided about the sale, the commission will have 30 days to assess any potential impacts of the transaction.

If the sale is anticipated to have a significant impact on health care costs and market functioning, the commission can begin a fuller cost and market impact review.

Democratic U.S. Sen. Edward Markey said for-profit companies that participate in the health care system must understand that their decisions have direct impacts on patients and communities.

With this announcement, Optum must demonstrate that it can meet the even greater responsibility to preserve and protect health care access, Markey said at a Wednesday press conference in Boston. I hope they will live up to that responsibility by controlling costs and putting patients and providers first.

Markey, chair of the senate's Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security, said he plans to hold a congressional hearing in Boston next week on the impact of for-profit companies on health care access.

U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, a fellow Massachusetts Democrat, said her top priority is making sure Stewards hospitals in Massachusetts stay open.

After years of gross profiteering and mismanagement, Stewards latest plan raises more serious questions about the future of the Massachusetts health care system," Warren said in a written statement.

Steward executives have no credibility, she added. It would be a terrible mistake for Steward to be allowed to walk away while looting Massachusetts one more time.
WYOMISSING, Pa. - It's a port that one Wyomissing travel agent has fond memories of cruising out of.

Just going under such a large bridge, it's amazing, said Debbie Rothermel with Berkshire Travel.

Now, that bridge is no more, just a memory in people's minds.

It's heart wrenching, you just keep watching it, said Rothermel.

She says those who cruise from Berks will be impacted.

"We're in the perfect spot being in Wyomissing. You can drive to New York, she said You can drive to Cape Liberty which is the Royal Caribbean and celebrity port. The cruises right now are going out of Baltimore. We're going out of Baltimore Cape Liberty, and Manhattan."

The fallout from the deadly collision and collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is posing a wide variety of challenges.

"Now this happening in Baltimore we don't know how long that port will be unavailable so people who were driving down to Baltimore now may have to drive for Carnival, they may have to drive to Norfolk, Rothermel said. Royal Caribbean, they haven't made their decision yet."

The cruise industry, like others impacted by the tragedy in Baltimore, will need to adapt in the months ahead.

"In the last couple years everyone's learned how to adapt with travel, she said. Everything has just changed and people adapt."

Now she and her colleagues in the travel industry will continue to monitor the situation as the critical port moves forward from this tragedy.

By summer hopefully by June or July they'll be back up, now it's the cleanup.
READING, Pa. - Two men were sentenced Monday for their roles in a 2022 double murder in the City of Reading.

The Berks Co. District Attorney's Office says Jonathon Rodriguez was sentenced to two consecutive sentences of life in prison without parole. Emanuel Soto, who was a juvenile at the time he committed these murders, was sentenced to two consecutive sentences of 35-years to life in prison.

Rodriguez and Soto were convicted by a jury of two counts of 1st degree murder and related charges in Feb.

On March 10, 2022, Rodriguez and Soto shot and killed Taurice Green and Marques Sudler in the 600 block of Miltimore Street.

A third defendant in the case, Darrian Kreitz, was charged with criminal homicide in the double shooting. Kreitz is expected to be sentenced on April 8.
As late as 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore stressed the search for the six missing construction workers was still a rescue operation, after the bridge collapse in Baltimore.

However, just after 5 p.m. the crew's employer Brawner Builders said the six are presumed dead. The company said the crew was working in the middle of the bridge's span.

One worker who was recovered remains in the hospital; a second that was rescued was released. At 6 p.m. rescue helicopters were still circling the scene.

"Right now, it's about people, it's about families and addressing the needs of those who were impacted, that is the focus," said Jennifer Homendy of the National Transportation and Safety Board.

Crews are expected to board the 985-foot long, 96-ton Singapore-owned cargo ship called Dali on Wednesday. This, after the Singapore-owned ship bound for Sri Lanka crashed into the bridge around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Investigators want to recover the data voyage recorder, which they say will give answers as to why the ship crashed, sending at least eight construction workers, filling potholes at the time, into the water.

Gov. Moore said the ship lost power but did put out a mayday, allowing crews on the bridge to stop any oncoming cars.

"These people are heroes, they saved lives, they saved lives last night," Moore said.

Baltimore's port is one of the busiest in the country. The bridge, built in 1977, is a major artery for the region, as 30,000 cars cross it daily.

President Biden is pledging total federal financial support and promising to visit the bridge as soon as possible.

"This is going to take some time, and the people of Baltimore can count on us to stick with them every step of the way, until the port is reopened, and the bridge is rebuilt," Biden said.

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg reiterated that at a press conference at the scene.

Moore said the rebuild and disruption to the city will take time and it's a long road. He also visited the families of the six missing crew members as well as first responders who spent hours looking for the crew in windy conditions and freezing cold water.
To restore any type of passenger rail in the Lehigh Valley, itll cost at least $450 million, according to the long-awaited Lehigh Valley passenger rail analysis, conducted by PennDOT-commissioned consultant, WSP.

The analysis took about a year to complete and presents five major candidate corridors:

Allentown to New York via Hackettstown - Estimated capital costs would be $474.9M - Travel time would be 2.5 hours. Allentown to New York via High Bridge - Estimated capital costs would be $469.9M - travel time would be 2 hours, 20 minutes. Allentown to Philadelphia via Lansdale - Estimated capital costs would be $635.8M - Travel time would be 1 hour, 46 minutes. Allentown to Philadelphia via Norristown - Estimated capital costs would be $739.0M - travel time would be 1 hour, 52 minutes. Allentown to Reading - Estimated capital costs would be $450.3M - Travel time would be 46 minutes.

The analysis lays out a 14-step, 10-12 year process that includes selecting a rail carrier, additional market study, environmental clearances, engineering, design and construction.

The report points out that there are significant challenges with all five of those proposals. Every corridor has had portions of the rail line removed and abandoned, which means all of the options have missing track or sections that require the re-development of former rail lines.

Another challenge would be operational conflicts with freight railroads and existing passenger railroads, with the exception of the potential Reading service. Therefore routes from the Lehigh Valley to New York and Philadelphia require operations over NJ Transit, SEPTA, Amtrak, or a combination thereof.

There are also missing facilities, with few of the former stations still in existence and those that remain requiring renovation.

The overall cost also presents a challenge, the report says, with estimated capital costs for the new service ranging from $450 million to $739 million. That doesn't include estimated annual operating costs, which range from $2 million to $29 million per year.

Most of the routes also run along or near historic property and/or preserved farm land, the report says. The Norristown to Philadelphia option also has a contaminated site on the route.

"Development of any of the Lehigh Valley passenger rail corridors will require a future project sponsor to lead the project process and overcome significant challenges during the initial years of the project development lifecycle," the analysis says.

In terms of travel demand, data collected by PennDOT from the U.S. Census Bureau estimates well over 30,000 people commute from the Lehigh Valley into the New York Metro for work, whereas around 70,000 people or more commute to the Philadelphia and Reading areas.

The analysis also lays out several alternative routes to provide service to New York, Philadelphia, and Reading.

These concepts were developed independently by the study team, and did not include consultation with NJ Transit, SEPTA, Amtrak, Norfolk Southern, CSX, and/or any other impacted rail carriers, PennDOT says.
EASTON, Pa. - Bethlehem Township EMS continues to be the primary provider for Easton, after a seemingly mass exodus left Easton EMS short staffed. It remains unclear exactly how many Easton EMS employees resigned for good, but for the first time, we're hearing from some of those former workers.

It's been a week and a half since Easton EMS employees walked off the job, many who signed a letter calling the board to resign.

"17 signatures," said one former employee.

We're now hearing from two of those former workers, who requested we not reveal their identities.

"I started there when I was 14," said the second former employee. "To see it go that way, it's heart wrenching."

The nonprofit's board is comprised of volunteers, but they're the employers in charge of making the big decisions, like pay and who stays and who goes.

"When the discharge of the director came then that Friday, everybody walked out," said the second former employee. "Station shut down."

"Everything that the director has promised and said that she would accomplish has been accomplished," said the first former employee. "Always available to us 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

The board president insists findings of an internal investigation surrounding billing, that employees aren't aware of, led to that discharge and to them reaching out to authorities.

The Northampton County DA is now investigating.

While the president called the resignations an emotional response and misplaced loyalty, the first former employees argues, "that's not true."

The two former employees say there had been problems with the board for months.

"The five people that are now at the helm, caused all this to happen. For it to be restructured properly, it needs to have the removal of those five people," said the second former employee.

There's a staffing crisis in the EMS industry nationwide, so many who resigned had new jobs in the area within just days.

The president denies the battle with the board allegations, adding its members are meeting every day to restructure, make new hires and move forward.

They talked with the city Tuesday and are working on clearances and training.

They say they're erring on the side of caution before returning to full service, and if needed, nearby Suburban EMS will help fill in scheduling gaps.
LEHIGH TWP., Pa. - A former Lehigh Township police officer will receive $1.7 million as part of the settlement of a lawsuit against the township and its police chief.

Township supervisors approved the settlement at their meeting Tuesday.

The township will pay $275,000 and the insurance company will pay the rest, said Township Solicitor David Backenstoe.

In the lawsuit, ex-officer Jessica Edwards accused Police Chief Scott Fogel of harassment and discrimination against her during the five years she worked with the police department.

The suit was settled and the case was dismissed, according to a court filing on Feb. 23.

She said because of her gender, she was singled out and "persistently disparaged, belittled, sexually objectified, and insulted" by Fogel. She was denied opportunities for professional development and growth and was retaliated against for complaining of mistreatment, the June 2023 lawsuit said.

She said she was forced to resign for her own well-being because of the "hostile, toxic and intolerable work environment."

The township solicitor had said an outside investigation did not find evidence of sexual harassment.
With the Pennsylvania primaries less than a month away, officials in Lehigh County are urging everyone to register to vote and get to the polls.

If you vote in the Lehigh Valley, Rochelle Kaplan of the League of Women Voters, and a poll worker, wants you to know that you need to register by April 8 to vote in the state primary.

To vote by mail-in ballot, your completed application must be received by the county office by April 16 at 5 p.m.

"We don't care how they vote," said Kaplan. "We want them to vote because it's the bedrock of democracy."

Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk says every voter counts.

"In recent years, in our municipal election, we've seen a decline in voter participation. Which is of grave concern to me," said Tuerk.

While Lehigh County officials say it's a top priority that people come out to vote, some voters say that having each vote counted is a priority.

'I"m not sure every vote is being counted these days. I see a lot of stuff online like maybe it isn't. Especially since COVID, when everything went online," said Bryce Torres of Allentown.

"Put the right people in for who you want to have a change. Especially this day and age with the younger crowd. It's important to get out there and vote, so I would hope that every vote is being counted. But at the end of the day, we're not really too sure," said Samira Khoury of Allentown.

Lehigh County Executive Phillips Armstrong says everyone who submits a ballot should rest assured their vote will be counted.

"On Election Day, we have members of both parties, represented, downstairs, watching us, our drop boxes all have video surveillence," Armstrong said.

Kaplan agrees.

"There are six poll workers that are watching everything so nobody can do anything crazy because five others are watching. So, it is incredibly secure," Kaplan said.

"And your vote will matter," Armstrong said.

The Pennsylvania primary is April 23.
HANOVER TWP., Pa.  At its bimonthly meeting Tuesday night, Northampton County's Hanover Township Board of Supervisors got an early look at plans for a behavioral hospital that could be built at a busy intersection near Route 22.

Offered by Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) and United Health Services, the proposal calls for the construction of a 144-bed behavioral health hospital at the southeast corner of the Macada Road/Schoenersville Road intersection.

According to attorney S. Graham Simmons, LVHN owns the land and seeks to rent out the main building via a ground lease. Such an arrangement would not impact the developers tax burden to the township in any way, Simmons said.

Speaking on behalf of the developer, engineer Nate Oiler provided an overview of the proposal, as well as the developers desired timeline for moving forward with the project.

According to Oiler, the main building would be three stories high, and a service road with ADA-accessible loading docks and sidewalks would wrap around the building. Tree buffers between the site and adjacent residential areas would remain, Oiler said.

Oiler also explained that the developer hopes to obtain waivers from the township on various land development issues. Such waivers would allow the developer to bypass a noise study, combine its application to receive simultaneous preliminary and final approvals and defer construction of off-site sidewalks to a future date.

The sidewalk deferral issue prompted an exchange between Oiler and board vice president Jean Versteeg, when the latter said the developers request to defer was akin to partaking in a chicken or the egg game.

Versteeg argued that the developer should be obligated to construct off-site sidewalks to improve the walkability of Schoenersville Road near the site  as many behavioral hospital employees would likely rely on public transportation for their commutes. Oiler responded that constructing the sidewalks was simply not feasible at this time, but did not rule out the developer constructing them in the future.

According to Oiler, earth-moving construction on the site would begin around May 28 if the proposal gets approved, while foundational construction work would begin in early July. The total project would take about one year to construct, Oiler said.

The developer has already submitted an NPDES permit and technical review letters to the townships engineers, Oiler said.

While the board took no action Tuesday night, the proposal is expected to be back on the agenda for a potential vote on Tuesday, April 9.

Township manager

In other news, the township appointed a new township manager after months of searching following the departure of longtime manager John Jay Finnigan Jr. late last year.

The board voted unanimously to appoint former Lower Saucon Township manager Mark Hudson as the new manager, at an annual salary of $160,000. According to board president Susan Lawless, Hudsons tenure will begin on Monday, April 8.

Hudson has not publicly given a reason for resignation as Lower Saucons manager, but that municipality has been plagued by heated, hours-long township council meetings since last summer.

Fire funds

Finally, the board unanimously voted to approve a motion authorizing the transfer of nearly $20,000 for a matter related to the Hanover Township Volunteer Fire Company.

According to fire chief Scott Van Why and president Mike Coogan, the request was necessary because the fire company has taken on additional expenses this year. Expense increases came from higher insurance premiums brought on by the company hiring more full-time employees and the purchase of a new firetruck, Coogan said.

A motion made by supervisor Stephen Gross authorized $19,886.75 to be taken from the townships fire tax fund to mount equipment on the new firetruck.

The Hanover Township Board of Supervisors will next meet on Tuesday, April 9.
L. SAUCON TWP., Pa.  Saucon Valley School District Superintendent Jaime Vlasaty offered a word of thanks Tuesday for the Lower Saucon Township Police Department.

In particular, she thanked the police for their assistance related to bomb threats made against the district last week.

"Our partnership with Lower Saucon police continues to be strong. During times of crisis, we truly appreciate it," Vlasaty said.

Saucon Valley had closed last week on Wednesday because of a bomb threat made Tuesday night, police said. There was no evidence found to corroborate that threat. A second threat closed the school Thursday as well.

Police confirmed the school was in session on Friday as they investigated a third threat against the district.

A juvenile is facing charges related to the bomb threats.

School board President Shamim Pakzad on Tuesday discussed the impact of such threats on the district.

"[They're] not light mattersthe intent is irrelevant," Pakzad said. "Two thousand students, families and staff who felt unsafe or afraid for an extended period of time. Some of them still don't feel safe...It's not funny, and it should be treated very seriously by everybody, including and first and foremost, by the families."

"If you don't have a safe environment, no learning can happen," he added.

Additionally, Pakzad asked citizens "to look to see if there are any legal actions the district can pursue in those matters."

"The district has been damaged by what occurred last week," agreed board solicitor Mark W. Fitzgerald.

The Northampton County District Attorney's Office said it, along with the Lower Saucon Township Police, will file appropriate charges of terroristic threats against a juvenile female.

The DA's office said the investigation disclosed no credible threat to public safety from any actual explosive device but that "the making of such threats is a serious matter and is being addressed in a serious manner."

The district discussed possible civil action on Tuesday.

Colonial Intermediate Unit 20

In other news, the board heard a budget presentation from Colonial Intermediate Unit 20.

The Intermediate Unit supports statewide systems of support for children, especially those with special needs.

They work hand-in-hand with a district's administrative staff to provide student services, explained Chris Wolfel, Colonial Intermediate Unit 20's executive director.

"Support of your administration is critical; we couldn't do it without your support," he said.

According to Wolfel, the IU offers services to 13 school districts, five charter schools, five career centers, 52 non-public schools and 270 daycares within Northampton, Monroe and Pike counties.

Wolfel said the Colonial IU 20 is one of the largest of the state's 29 intermediate units.

Among other sources of revenue, the IU receives funds from the districts within its coverage area. On Tuesday, Wolfel provided a budget for the board's approval.

For instance, Saucon Valley School District's $24,000 contribution is one of 47 obtained from the IU's school districts and represents 1.6% of the total $576,000 collected.

Those contributions comprise the base budget supporting the IU's "core operations." Operations funded include the office of the executive, the business office and the office of curriculum and professional learning.

According to the IU's website, intermediate units provide "education, administrative and technology services to more than 175,000 students and 75,000 educators and adults."

According to Wolfel, the IU responds to districts' service requests and offers speech and occupational therapy, among other services.

Pakzad asked about the IU's commitment to supporting the district's autistic children.

"It's very important for our families who are using that," he said.

Autistic support is one of the IU's "fastest growing programs," Wolfel said.

For the 2018-19 school year, 443 students received support. Last year, the number was 568.

"You might not think that's a lot of kids," Wolfel said, "but when you only have eight to a classroom, it leads to a lot of classrooms and a lot of staff."

The IU is looking at inclusion to cut down on resources and provide better services to children.

Indeed, the IU continues to "work at ways that we can provide inclusive servicesinclusion is very important," Wolfel said.

Wolfel said the budget is prepared with the help of the IU's board of directors and requires school district review and approval.

Communication committee

In her report, Superintendent Vlasaty announced the formation of a communication committee comprising 20 individuals, including teachers, administrators and community members.

Vlasaty said she's "received a lot of feedback from the community" about communication.

Now, they want more. She said a survey will be launched on April 3, which will take 10 minutes to complete and will help inform the district's communication plan. Focus group activity will most likely follow, she said.
Zelensky announced availability of substantial amount of funds for current year for all regions of the country under "Made in Ukraine" program

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky during his working visit to Sumy region took part in the first regional meeting on the new program of economic policy "Made in Ukraine".

"For the first time held a regional meeting regarding our new program of economic policy "Made in Ukraine". There is a substantial amount of funds for this year for all regions of our state. Guaranteed for Sumy region as well," he said in the evening video message.

Thus, according to him, as a result of this meeting, there are already specific tasks for members of the government, the State Property Fund, the Office of the President and regional authorities, and there are signed contracts for the Ukrainian defense-industrial complex.

Zelensky, in particular, said there are new contracts for automated fire-fighting systems, new FPV drones, and simulators for mobile firing teams to help shoot down Shaheds more effectively.

"I am proud that every month more and more companies, more and more developers are offering concrete samples of weapons, shells, equipment, mine clearance vehicles and everything that is needed on the frontline and will save the lives of our people," he said.

In addition, during his visit to Sumy region, the president held a lengthy coordination meeting on internal security in the region - from shelters to countering crime, and on all defense issues.

"Very substantive. As for the economy and the social situation: now the general task - and the government, and the regional authorities and heads of communities to give every opportunity that here in our Sumy region there were jobs, that social protection worked, that there were reliable revenues to the budget," - said Zelensky.
Pennsylvania State Police will be on the lookout for unsafe driving as many will be traveling for the Easter holiday.

The official Easter holiday enforcement period runs from midnight Friday through the end of Sunday, said the state police Bethlehem barracks.

Troopers will be targeting aggressive drivers, including speeding, seat belt violations and child safety violations, police said.

They will also be concentrating on those texting or using cell phones while driving as well as reckless or careless driving.

Suspected DUI drivers will also be stopped.
ALLENTOWN, Pa.  Next month, five Democratic candidates will face off in their partys primary of the 2024 Pennsylvania Attorney General election.

The five candidates are: Former Philadelphia chief public defender Keir Bradford-Grey, former Pennsylvania Auditor General Eugene DePasquale, former Bucks County solicitor Joe Khan, state Rep. Jared Solomon and Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer.

Unlike its Republican counterpart, the Pennsylvania Democratic Party has abstained from endorsing a candidate  though DePasquale received the most support at the partys December 2023 meeting.

In a televised debate between the candidates that aired on WTAJ earlier this month, there seemed to be little separating them on the issues. All expressed their support for abortion rights, legalizing recreational marijuana, consumer protections such as challenging junk fees and banning TikTok, and adopting various measures to prevent gun violence.

Candidate positions

Bradford-Grey says her background as a public defender makes her uniquely qualified to serve as Attorney General because she can go after people in that board room  powerful interests such as gun retailers, suppliers and manufacturers who she says do not conduct proper background checks, leading to weapons ending up in the wrong hands. She expressed admiration for New York Attorney General Letitia James approach to the office and believes no one can fight for womens issue such as abortion like a woman can.

DePasquale touts his potential electability, arguing that he was elected to serve as Auditor General in 2016 when Donald Trump was also on the ballot in Pennsylvania. He related personal stories about his fathers struggles with addiction and brothers death from muscular dystrophy when speaking about various issues. DePasquale said democracy, reproductive/mental health and taking on pollution from corporate oil drillers would be top priorities if he was elected.

Khan he believes he is the right candidate for his party because he would overcome an enthusiasm gap created by Republicans who often portray Democratic Attorney General candidates as soft on crime. Khan focused on various consumer protection lawsuits he filed as Bucks Countys solicitor, and said he would prioritize issues related to Pennsylvanias housing crisis while in office.

A security and anti-trust lawyer, Solomon said he believes an Attorney General should temper [the] judicial system with a sense of mercy when dealing with drug issues. He proposed adopting the Colorado model  a community-based approach of working with nonprofits to address addiction-related crime issues  and directly challenging opioid manufacturers.

Stollsteimer defended his record of ending for-profit prisons and targeting felons who carry guns illegally  an approach he claimed significantly reduced gun violence in the city of Chester. He also said he would prioritize gun-related and environmental crimes, such as the chemical pollution of drinking water, if elected Attorney General.
Allentown, PA (18103)

Today

The nicest day of the forecast, with an egg-cellent Easter Sunday expected with partly sunny skies and mild highs near the 60-degree mark. .

Tonight

Clouding up with a bit of rain arriving late...after midnight.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday blasted a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a Gaza cease-fire that his country's top ally, the United States, chose not to block. He said the resolution had emboldened Hamas and he vowed to press ahead with the war.

As the war grinds through a sixth month, both Israel and Hamas have rejected cease-fire efforts, each insisting its version of victory is within reach. The passage of the U.N. resolution has also escalated tensions between the U.S. and Israel over the conduct of the war.

Netanyahu has said Israel can only achieve its aims of dismantling Hamas and returning scores of hostages if it expands its ground offensive to the southern city of Rafah, where over half of Gazas population has sought refuge, many in crowded tent camps. The U.S. has said a major assault on Rafah would be a mistake.

Hamas says it will hold onto the hostages until Israel agrees to a more permanent cease-fire, withdraws its forces from Gaza and releases hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants. It said late Monday that it rejected a recent proposal that fell short of those demands  which, if fulfilled, would allow it to claim an extremely costly victory.

Netanyahu said in a statement that the announcement proved clearly that Hamas is not interested in continuing negotiations toward a deal and served as unfortunate testimony to the damage of the Security Council decision.

Israel will not surrender to Hamas delusional demands and will continue to act to achieve all the goals of the war: releasing all the hostages, destroying Hamas military and governing capabilities and ensuring that Gaza will never again be a threat to Israel.

Israel has killed over 32,000 Palestinians, around two-thirds of them women and children, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its tally. The fighting has left much of the Gaza Strip in ruins, displaced most its residents and driven a third of its population of 2.3 million to the brink of famine.

The Israeli military announced Tuesday that an airstrike earlier this month killed Marwan Issa, the deputy leader of Hamas armed wing in Gaza who helped plan the Oct. 7 attack. Issa is the highest-ranking Hamas leader to have been killed in Gaza since the start of the war. Military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Issa was killed when fighter jets struck an underground compound in central Gaza between March 9 and 10.

An Israeli strike late Monday on a residential building in Rafah where three displaced families were sheltering killed at least 16 people, including nine children and four women, according to hospital records and relatives of the deceased. An Associated Press reporter saw the bodies arrive at a hospital.

In the face of Hamas' demands for a more permanent cease-fire, Netanyahu has vowed to resume Israels offensive after any hostage release and keep fighting until the militant group is destroyed. But he has provided few details about what would follow any such victory and has largely rejected a postwar vision outlined by the U.S.

That approach has brought him into increasingly open conflict with President Joe Bidens administration, which has expressed mounting concern over civilian casualties  though it has continued to supply Israel with crucial military aid and back Israels aim of destroying Hamas.

The passage of Monday's resolution by the U.N. Security Council resolution further deepened the divisions. The resolution called for the release of all hostages held in Gaza but did not condition the cease-fire on it. The Biden administration, which vetoed previous U.N. resolutions calling for a cease-fire, abstained in Mondays vote, allowing it to pass.

In response, Netanyahu cancelled a planned visit by Israeli officials to Washington during which the U.S. side was set to propose alternatives to a ground assault in Rafah.

The move raised criticism in Israeli media that Netanyahu was straining Israel's most important alliance in order to placate hard-liners in his governing coalition.

He is prepared to sacrifice Israels relations with the United States for a short-lived political-media coup. He has completely lost it, Ben Caspit, a prominent columnist in the Israeli newspaper Maariv, wrote.

He said Netanyahu has been trying U.S. patience by dragging his feet on ensuring more humanitarian aid gets into Gaza and on drawing up post-war plans. Now, instead of doing everything to placate them, he is flailing about like a baby throwing a tantrum.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, in Washington on a separate trip, held talks Tuesday with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and with top U.S. defense leaders.

Ahead of the meeting, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin described civilian casualties in Gaza as far too high and aid deliveries as far too low. But he also repeated the belief that Israel has the right to defend itself and the U.S. would always be there to help.

Gallant said he told Blinken "that Israel will not cease operating in Gaza until the return of all the hostages. Only a decisive victory will bring to an end of this war.

Hamas top political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, said the U.N. resolution showed that Israel faces an unprecedented (level of) political isolation and was losing its political cover at the Security Council. He spoke at a news conference in Tehran after talks with officials in Iran, a key ally of Hamas.

The war began on Oct. 7, when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border and attacked communities in southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 others. It is still believed to be holding about 100 hostages and the remains of 35 others, after most of the rest were freed in November in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners.

The United States, Qatar and Egypt have spent several weeks trying to negotiate another cease-fire and hostage release, but those efforts appeared to have stalled.

Majed al-Ansari, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Qatar, which is currently hosting the talks, told reporters that the negotiations were ongoing, without providing details.

Hamas has previously proposed a phased process in which it would release all the remaining hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the opening of its borders for aid and reconstruction, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants serving life sentences.

___

Shurafa reported from Rafah, Gaza Strip.

Find more of APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
BALTIMORE  Some people in the area said they could feel a vibration early Tuesday morning when the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in Baltimore.

Many people stood along the water looking in disbelief at where the bridge once stood.

"We weren't sure, but it sounded like a loud clang," said Lauren Smith of Baltimore.

Authorities said the bridge was struck by a cargo ship that lost power.

Smith lives nearby, and said after that noise, she received an emergency message on her phone.

"When I Googled it, I saw a video," she said. "I didn't think it was real."

Smith was among several people standing along the water, looking on from afar at the remnants of the bridge sitting in the water.

"I used to travel that bridge every other weekend for years, and it's kind of shocking," Smith said.

It is a bridge Maryland's governor said 30,000 people travel on a day.

"It sounded like a gunshot. It was just loud," described Brady Hagan.

"Then on my way to work, hopped on Facebook. Everybody was talking about it," Hagan continued. "I ain't believe it, though, 'til I came this morning."

"It was like 1:30 in the morning," said Cara Mosley. "We were sitting there, and then we just heard a loud bang."

"For us to be in this local community, we drive over that bridge a thousand times, you know, years, a year, a thousand times a day or whatever, and to actually see that the bridge has fallen is like, whoa, it's like mind-blowing," described resident David Lacks.

A bridge that was standing less than 24 hours ago is now gone.

"Very somber and shocking, more so than anything," said Smith.
NEW ORLEANS (AP)  Texas plans to arrest migrants suspected of illegally entering the U.S. will remain on hold under a federal appeals court order that likely prevents enforcement of Republican Gov. Greg Abbotts new immigration law until a broader decision on whether it is legal.

The 2-1 ruling late Tuesday is the second time a three-judge panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has put a temporary hold on the the Texas law. It follows a confusing few hours last week the Supreme Court allowed the law to take effect, setting off anger and anticipation along the U.S.-Mexico border.

The same panel of appeals judges will hear arguments on the law next week.

I think what we can draw from this, from the chaos that this has been are several conclusions, said Lisa Graybill, vice president of law and policy at the National Immigration Law Center. One is that this is clearly a controversial law. Two is that the politics of the justices on the bench are very clearly playing out in their rulings.

Texas authorities announced no arrests made under the law during that short window on March 19 before the appellate panel stepped in and blocked it.

In Tuesday's order, Chief Judge Priscilla Richman cited a 2012 Supreme Court decision that struck down portions of a strict Arizona immigration law, including arrest power. The Texas law is considered by opponents to be the most dramatic attempt by a state to police immigration since that Arizona law.

For nearly 150 years, the Supreme Court has held that the power to control immigration  the entry, admission, and removal of noncitizens  is exclusively a federal power, wrote Richman, an appointee of Republican President George W. Bush.

The Justice Department has argued that Texas law is a clear violation of federal authority and would create chaos at the border. Texas has argued that President Joe Bidens administration isnt doing enough to control the border and that the state has a right to take action.

The Texas law, Richman wrote, "creates separate, distinct state criminal offenses and related procedures regarding unauthorized entry of noncitizens into Texas from outside the country and their removal.

She was joined in the opinion by Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez, a Biden appointee.

Judge Andrew Oldham, an appointee of former President Donald Trump and a former aide to Abbott, dissented from the majority decision.

Oldham wrote that the Biden administration faced a high bar to take sovereign power that Texas has to enforce a law its people and leaders want.

In our federal system, the State of Texas is supposed to retain at least some of its sovereignty," Oldham wrote. "Its people are supposed to be able to use that sovereignty to elect representatives and send them to Austin to debate and enact laws that respond to the exigencies that Texans experience and that Texans want addressed.

The law was in effect for several hours on March 19 after the U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way. But the high court didnt rule on the merits of the case. It instead sent the case back to the 5th Circuit, which suspended enforcement while it considered the latest appeal.

The latest ruling keeps the block in place.

Phone messages were left Wednesday seeking comment from spokespersons for Abbott and state Attorney General Ken Paxton.

The law signed by Abbott allows any Texas law enforcement officer to arrest people suspected of entering the country illegally. Once in custody, migrants could either agree to a Texas judges order to leave the U.S. or be prosecuted on misdemeanor charges of illegal entry. Migrants who dont leave could face arrest again under more serious felony charges.

Authorities have offered various explanations for how they might enforce the law. Mexico has said it would refuse to take back anyone who is ordered by Texas to cross the border.

The brief window while the law was in effect revealed that many sheriffs were unprepared, unable or uninterested in enforcing it.

Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland of Terrell County, which touches more than 50 miles (80 kilometers) of border, told The Associated Press last week said theres no practical way for him to enforce the law. Cleveland said he has no way to transport people, the county jail has space for just seven people and the closest port of entry is a drive of more than 2 1/2 hours away.

Smith County Sheriff Larry Smith, president of the Texas Sheriffs Association, said the law will have little effect in his jurisdiction in East Texas, which is closer to Louisiana and Oklahoma than Mexico which is nearly 400 miles (644 kilometers) away.

Critics have said the Texas law could lead to civil rights violations and racial profiling.

Supporters have rejected those concerns, saying arresting officers must have probable cause, which could include witnessing the illegal entry or seeing it on video. They also say that they expect the law would be used mostly in border counties, though it would apply statewide.

Associated Press writers Ken Miller in Oklahoma City, Acacia Coronado in Austin, Texas, and Elliot Spagat in San Diego contributed to this report.

This story has been corrected to reflect that Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland spoke to the AP and did not attend the gathering at the Capitol.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. Plans for the provision of military assistance to Armenia under the European Peace Facility cause further concerns and undermine peace-building efforts in the region, Trend reports, referring to the statement of the Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs on a joint EU-Armenia-US conference scheduled for April 5, 2024, in Brussels.

"As it is well known, the Azerbaijani side has, on numerous occasions, clearly expressed its position on certain approaches and actions towards our region by the European Union and some of its member states in particular.

The fact is that the ongoing peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia was initiated by the Azerbaijani side, which has always demonstrated a constructive stance on all issues of post-conflict normalization. Moreover, during the Prague quadrilateral meeting of October 6, 2022, the Azerbaijani side was asked to give its consent on the deployment of a short-term EU Monitoring Capacity (EUMCAP) comprising 40 EU civilian monitoring experts along the Armenian side of the undelimited border, which was supposed to contribute to confidence-building between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Unfortunately, after the original two-month term, without Azerbaijans agreement, the EUMCAP was transformed into the EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA), with a significant term extension and a much larger number of monitors. The mission has since been actively exploited as an anti-Azerbaijani propaganda tool. Additionally, with Canada joining the EUMA, it resembles a de facto NATO mission. This has also been accompanied by statements calling the EUMA a deterrence force and creating the illusion of a possible intervention by Azerbaijan, which has no ground whatsoever.

Thus, the EU was urged to take all necessary measures with a view to ensuring that the EUMA acts strictly as a neutral, civilian, and unarmed mission, in line with its declared mandate, and refrains from any activity targeting Azerbaijans sovereignty and territorial integrity or affecting its legitimate security interests in any other manner.

Another matter for concern is a France-led campaign aimed at militarizing Armenia, which also includes new pledges of larger military supplies (including lethal and offensive types of weapons). Another EU member state, Greece, has recently made statements about the deepening of military cooperation with Armenia. Additionally, plans for the provision of military assistance to Armenia under the European Peace Facility and reports that the April 5th meeting envisages military components cause further concerns and undermine peace-building efforts in the region.

Interestingly, being a victim of armed aggression, occupation, and ethnic cleansing for almost 30 years, and even with four UN Security Council resolutions demanding immediate, complete, and unconditional withdrawal of the Armenian occupying forces, Azerbaijan has never received this kind of unconditional support from the EU and US," the publication says.

"Such actions by the EU and US clearly have a one-sided and biased character and are based on a double-standard approach. The mentioned conference is not conducted in a fully transparent manner, lacks regional inclusivity, and runs contrary to promoted and much-needed confidence-building and integrity in the region. It creates new dividing lines and so-called spheres of influence in the region instead of encouraging the Armenian side to negotiate in good faith.

Given the revanchist mood in Armenia, such an open pro-Armenian public manifestation by Washington and Brussels might create a dangerous illusion in Armenia that the EU and US are going to support Armenia in its possible renewed provocations against Azerbaijan. In such a case, the EU and US will share responsibility for any possible destabilizing action by Armenia.

We once again call upon all sides to refrain from steps that are counterproductive to the peace efforts and can trigger new waves of escalation and tension in the region when there is a unique window of opportunity to reach lasting peace, stability, and security based upon fundamental norms and principles of international law," the statement reads.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. The April 5 meeting in Brussels is dragging the whole region to a new level of tension, political scientist Ilyas Huseynov told Trend.

"Armenia has long been a weapon for the West's geopolitical goals in the area, and it has actively participated in this process. Notably, the European Union's civilian mission was planned to be temporary, lasting only two months, but it has since grown. More than 200 people are currently working, including former intelligence and military officials. This expansion suggests a gradual shift to the mission's paramilitarization," he noted.

Huseynov indicated that during the April 5 meeting in Brussels among the head of the European Union Commission, the US Secretary of State, and the Armenian Prime Minister, discussions will cover the militarization of the mission and the proposed support plan for Armenia, particularly focusing on defense and security guarantees.

"There is even a possibility of signing a pact. All these meetings, contacts, and activities aimed at arming Armenia have acquired the character of taking the region to a new level of escalation and tension.

Armenia is solely utilized as a useful tool in this context. At the same time, they intend to transform an integrated region with numerous prospects for collaboration into a powder keg. The West's transfer of weapons to Armenia under the guise of security, as well as the arrival of various instructors and persons to improve the Armenian Armed Forces in Yerevan, endangers regional security, and Azerbaijan strongly condemns both these meetings and the destructive activities of the European Union mission in Armenia," he added.

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Schechter Investment Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV  Free Report) by 0.2% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 35,660 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 72 shares during the period. Schechter Investment Advisors LLCs holdings in AbbVie were worth $5,526,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Polar Capital Holdings Plc boosted its position in AbbVie by 11.6% in the 2nd quarter. Polar Capital Holdings Plc now owns 358,872 shares of the companys stock valued at $48,351,000 after buying an additional 37,368 shares during the period. Altfest L J & Co. Inc. lifted its position in shares of AbbVie by 0.9% in the 3rd quarter. Altfest L J & Co. Inc. now owns 23,346 shares of the companys stock worth $3,480,000 after purchasing an additional 215 shares during the period. Torray Investment Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of AbbVie by 13.0% in the 3rd quarter. Torray Investment Partners LLC now owns 21,190 shares of the companys stock worth $3,159,000 after purchasing an additional 2,446 shares during the period. Retirement Planning Co of New England Inc. lifted its position in shares of AbbVie by 21.3% in the 3rd quarter. Retirement Planning Co of New England Inc. now owns 26,409 shares of the companys stock worth $3,936,000 after purchasing an additional 4,633 shares during the period. Finally, Amplius Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of AbbVie by 17.6% in the 4th quarter. Amplius Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 2,668 shares of the companys stock worth $413,000 after purchasing an additional 400 shares during the period. 70.23% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have recently weighed in on ABBV shares. HSBC cut shares of AbbVie from a buy rating to a hold rating and lowered their price target for the stock from $167.00 to $156.00 in a research report on Monday, December 18th. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price objective on shares of AbbVie from $187.00 to $195.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, February 5th. Barclays boosted their price objective on shares of AbbVie from $175.00 to $185.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, February 5th. Truist Financial boosted their price objective on shares of AbbVie from $180.00 to $195.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 6th. Finally, 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. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, AbbVie currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $176.71.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Nicholas Donoghoe sold 21,082 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $176.30, for a total transaction of $3,716,756.60. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 55,903 shares in the company, valued at $9,855,698.90. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other AbbVie news, EVP Nicholas Donoghoe sold 21,082 shares of AbbVie stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $176.30, for a total transaction of $3,716,756.60. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 55,903 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,855,698.90. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, SVP Kevin K. Buckbee sold 5,144 shares of AbbVie stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $176.65, for a total transaction of $908,687.60. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 6,983 shares in the company, valued at $1,233,546.95. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 383,324 shares of company stock worth $67,780,003. 0.25% of the stock is owned by insiders.

AbbVie Price Performance

Shares of NYSE ABBV traded up $0.67 during trading on Tuesday, hitting $179.20. The company had a trading volume of 4,392,374 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,711,853. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $173.79 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $157.59. AbbVie Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $130.96 and a fifty-two week high of $182.89. The firm has a market capitalization of $317.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 65.64, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.27 and a beta of 0.58. The company has a quick ratio of 0.76, a current ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.02.

AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Friday, February 2nd. The company reported $2.79 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.76 by $0.03. AbbVie had a net margin of 8.95% and a return on equity of 162.28%. The business had revenue of $14.30 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.02 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $3.60 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 5.4% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts expect that AbbVie Inc. will post 11.15 earnings per share for the current year.

AbbVie Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 15th. Investors of record on Monday, April 15th will be given a dividend of $1.55 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, April 12th. This represents a $6.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.46%. AbbVies payout ratio is presently 227.11%.

AbbVie Profile

(Free Report)

AbbVie Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Humira, an injection for autoimmune and intestinal Behcet's diseases, and pyoderma gangrenosum; Skyrizi to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic disease, and Crohn's disease; Rinvoq to treat rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, atopic dermatitis, axial spondyloarthropathy, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease; Imbruvica for the treatment of adult patients with blood cancers; Epkinly to treat lymphoma; Elahere to treat cancer; and Venclexta/Venclyxto to treat blood cancers.

Further Reading

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Trust Co of the South bought a new position in Parker-Hannifin Co. (NYSE:PH  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund bought 767 shares of the industrial products companys stock, valued at approximately $353,000.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Parker-Hannifin by 8.1% in the first quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC now owns 1,496 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $425,000 after acquiring an additional 112 shares in the last quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Parker-Hannifin by 69.8% in the first quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,869 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,098,000 after acquiring an additional 1,591 shares in the last quarter. Prudential PLC bought a new position in shares of Parker-Hannifin in the first quarter valued at approximately $687,000. Moors & Cabot Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Parker-Hannifin by 270.8% in the first quarter. Moors & Cabot Inc. now owns 2,718 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $771,000 after acquiring an additional 1,985 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Parker-Hannifin by 2.0% in the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 9,849,497 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $2,794,892,000 after acquiring an additional 190,889 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 82.44% of the companys stock.

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Parker-Hannifin Stock Performance

Shares of PH stock traded down $1.37 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $549.16. The stock had a trading volume of 425,377 shares, compared to its average volume of 607,517. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $514.68 and its 200 day simple moving average is $451.97. The company has a quick ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 0.90 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.72. Parker-Hannifin Co. has a one year low of $308.26 and a one year high of $561.13. The firm has a market cap of $70.52 billion, a PE ratio of 27.19, a P/E/G ratio of 2.04 and a beta of 1.52.

Parker-Hannifin Announces Dividend

Parker-Hannifin ( NYSE:PH Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 1st. The industrial products company reported $6.15 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $5.26 by $0.89. The company had revenue of $4.82 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.82 billion. Parker-Hannifin had a return on equity of 29.91% and a net margin of 13.28%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 3.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $4.76 EPS. On average, analysts forecast that Parker-Hannifin Co. will post 24.2 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 1st. Investors of record on Friday, February 9th were given a dividend of $1.48 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 8th. This represents a $5.92 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.08%. Parker-Hannifins dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 29.31%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, COO Andrew D. Ross sold 3,904 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $510.16, for a total transaction of $1,991,664.64. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief operating officer now owns 13,120 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,693,299.20. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In other news, COO Andrew D. Ross sold 3,904 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $510.16, for a total value of $1,991,664.64. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now directly owns 13,120 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,693,299.20. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, EVP Mark J. Hart sold 5,197 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $502.94, for a total value of $2,613,779.18. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 7,063 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,552,265.22. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 12,079 shares of company stock worth $6,099,566 in the last 90 days. 1.03% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

PH has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a buy rating and issued a $551.00 price objective on shares of Parker-Hannifin in a report on Tuesday, January 2nd. TD Cowen upgraded shares of Parker-Hannifin from an underperform rating to a market perform rating and raised their target price for the stock from $300.00 to $500.00 in a report on Friday, March 1st. Stifel Nicolaus restated a buy rating and set a $588.00 target price on shares of Parker-Hannifin in a report on Tuesday, March 5th. Evercore ISI raised their target price on shares of Parker-Hannifin from $505.00 to $590.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, February 20th. Finally, KeyCorp raised their target price on shares of Parker-Hannifin from $500.00 to $575.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, February 2nd. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $504.56.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on PH

Parker-Hannifin Profile

(Free Report)

Parker-Hannifin Corporation manufactures and sells motion and control technologies and systems for various mobile, industrial, and aerospace markets worldwide. The company operates through two segments: Diversified Industrial and Aerospace Systems. The Diversified Industrial segment offers sealing, shielding, thermal products and systems, adhesives, coatings, and noise vibration and harshness solutions; filters, systems, and diagnostics solutions to ensure purity and remove contaminants from fuel, air, oil, water, and other liquids and gases; connectors used in fluid and gas handling; and hydraulic, pneumatic, and electromechanical components and systems for builders and users of mobile and industrial machinery and equipment.

Read More

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Trust Co of the South bought a new position in shares of NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund bought 6,991 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $425,000.

Other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Coppell Advisory Solutions LLC acquired a new position in NextEra Energy during the second quarter worth about $32,000. Country Trust Bank raised its stake in NextEra Energy by 975.6% during the third quarter. Country Trust Bank now owns 441 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 400 shares in the last quarter. West Tower Group LLC acquired a new position in NextEra Energy during the second quarter worth about $36,000. GeoWealth Management LLC raised its stake in NextEra Energy by 124.1% during the first quarter. GeoWealth Management LLC now owns 549 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $42,000 after acquiring an additional 304 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Alaska Permanent Fund Corp raised its stake in NextEra Energy by 59.8% during the third quarter. Alaska Permanent Fund Corp now owns 556 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 208 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.72% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

NEE has been the topic of several research reports. Royal Bank of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a $74.00 price target on shares of NextEra Energy in a report on Tuesday, January 30th. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price target on NextEra Energy from $76.00 to $77.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Monday, March 18th. StockNews.com cut NextEra Energy from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Monday, February 19th. Citigroup initiated coverage on NextEra Energy in a report on Friday, December 8th. They set a buy rating and a $69.00 price target on the stock. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price target on NextEra Energy from $84.00 to $85.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, March 19th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, NextEra Energy presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $72.46.

NextEra Energy Stock Down 1.9 %

NYSE NEE traded down $1.18 on Tuesday, hitting $61.43. 13,828,816 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 12,038,108. The company has a current ratio of 0.55, a quick ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06. The company has a market cap of $126.08 billion, a PE ratio of 17.02, a PEG ratio of 2.19 and a beta of 0.50. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $57.70 and a 200-day moving average of $58.62. NextEra Energy, Inc. has a 12 month low of $47.15 and a 12 month high of $79.78.

NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 25th. The utilities provider reported $0.52 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.49 by $0.03. NextEra Energy had a net margin of 26.00% and a return on equity of 11.73%. The firm had revenue of $6.88 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.72 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.51 earnings per share. As a group, analysts forecast that NextEra Energy, Inc. will post 3.44 earnings per share for the current year.

NextEra Energy Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 15th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, February 27th were paid a $0.515 dividend. This is an increase from NextEra Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.47. This represents a $2.06 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.35%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, February 26th. NextEra Energys payout ratio is 57.06%.

About NextEra Energy

(Free Report)

NextEra Energy, Inc, through its subsidiaries, generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electric power to retail and wholesale customers in North America. The company generates electricity through wind, solar, nuclear,natural gas, and other clean energy. It also develops, constructs, and operates long-term contracted assets that consists of clean energy solutions, such as renewable generation facilities, battery storage projects, and electric transmission facilities; sells energy commodities; and owns, develops, constructs, manages and operates electric generation facilities in wholesale energy markets.

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Letter from Lhasa: A tale of ferries along Yarlung Zangbo River

08:31, March 27, 2024 By Liu Zhoupeng ( Xinhua

An aerial drone photo taken on Feb. 23, 2024 shows the Dranang bridge in Dranang County of Shannan City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Tenzing Nima Qadhup)

LHASA, March 26 (Xinhua) -- It was a serene and sun-drenched afternoon when I met former ferryman Sonam Tashi along the majestic Yarlung Zangbo River. Clad in a traditional Tibetan robe and a broad-brimmed felt hat, he was tending to his flock of sheep near his Tibetan-style villa.

Our meeting quickly evolved into a captivating journey through history.

Sonam Tashi, who is now 67 years old, joined me in my car, and within minutes, we journeyed from the northern bank of the Yarlung Zangbo to its southern counterpart. During our journey, we crossed a major bridge in Dranang County, situated in the city of Shannan, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region.

Upon reaching Samye Ferry, my gaze fell upon a scene -- a damaged iron gate, an abandoned sweet tea house, and a flock of sheep calmly grazing on the untamed grass nearby. The fading graffiti on the tea house walls, marked with dates, hinted at its bustling past, which seemed to have faded away around 2015.

Yet, the once-thriving ferry was cloaked in silence and dust. The abandoned wooden boat on the shore stood as a silent witness to the tales of ferrymen like Sonam Tashi, who once navigated the river's currents with purpose and pride.

Sonam Tashi reminisced about the era before the 1980s when the winding waterway was the sole lifeline connecting Tsethang Subdistrict and Dranang County. The latter is home to the famed Samye Monastery.

"During that time, ferrying was not merely a profession but a way of life," Sonam Tashi recounted. His father, equipped with a yak skin boat, once ferried passengers across the river, braving its unpredictable currents.

In 1985, Sonam Tashi acquired his first boat -- a small wooden vessel converted from an old diesel engine, capable of accommodating around 20 passengers. Despite the need for frequent repairs, he navigated the shallow and sandy riverbed, ferrying passengers twice a day, undeterred by the harsh weather conditions.

"Being a ferryman demanded not only skillful boatmanship but also extraordinary courage and wisdom," he told me. From adjusting courses based on wind direction and current speed to navigating treacherous sand ridges, every journey was a testament to his skill and determination.

Three years later, Sonam Tashi upgraded to a new, brightly painted boat, which quickly became the preferred mode of transport for passengers and livestock alike.

Many passengers still hold fond memories of crossing the river by boat.

Sonam Tashi shows his certificate of ferrying in Dranang County of Shannan City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Feb. 23, 2024. (Xinhua/Tenzing Nima Qadhup)

Pasang Tsering, 44, the deputy director of the Surkhar community, where Sonam Tashi resides, recalls his teenage years when he would cross the river every two weeks on his way back from school. The fierce winter winds made the boat sway dangerously, filling him with anxiety and unease.

"Yet, lively Tibetan songs on Sonam Tashi's radio eased everyone's nerves," he told me.

At a sweet tea house in the Surkhar community, Tashi Phuntsok, a 78-year-old resident, recounted his routine of taking a ferry from the north bank every three days to exchange potatoes and woven goods for daily necessities. He nostalgically recalled the anticipation of returning home in the afternoon if the ferry set off early, or the inconvenience of having to stay the night at a relative's house if it was late.

With the advent of modern highways and bridges in Shannan, and throughout Xizang, the demand for ferry services gradually waned. By early 2022, the total road length in Xizang exceeded 121,400 km, including 1,105 km of high-grade highways.

In 2001, a gravel road connecting Tsethang and Dranang was completed, providing an alternative to the ferry crossing. Nearly a decade later, the road was upgraded to a blacktop one.

"After the road opened to traffic, I also helped transport motorcycles and cars across the river," Sonam Tashi said. The ferry business experienced a decline at that time, leading to a reduction in the number of boats.

In 2015, the Dranang bridge, spanning 4,700 meters, was inaugurated, drastically reducing the hours-long river crossing to a few minutes' drive. This subsequently marked the end of an era for the ferrymen. Around 96,000 vehicles passed through the bridge last year.

Sonam Tashi's children now pursue endeavors beyond these familiar shores, while he himself finds that a mere five minutes on a motorcycle are all it takes to cross the river.

As I bid farewell to him, I couldn't help but marvel at the resilience of the human spirit in the face of changing times. While the river may stand as steadfast as ever, the tales of those who once navigated its currents persist, echoing through the ages.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Saudi-based Almar Water Solutions, a leading global water services provider, has joined hands with its consortium partners to break ground on the Zuluf Water Treatment Plant, a major project of global oil giant Aramco.

It is the first outsourcing of a water project under a public private partnership (PPP) agreement that Aramco has launched.

For the execution and operation of the plant, Almar Water Solutions is collaborating with a consortium comprising Saudi group Al Jomaih Energy and Water Company (AEW), Italian EPC contractor Fisia Italimpianti and Aquatech International, a leading global provider of water and process technology solutions based in Pennsylvania, US.

The project is being implemented on a BOOT (build, own, operate and transfer) model for a 25-year tenure.

On completion, the Zuluf Water Treatment Plant will boast a 185,000 cu m per day capacity, contributing significantly to sustainable water solutions in Saudi Arabia.

The ground-breaking ceremony was attended by representatives from Aramco, Almar Water Solutions, Al Jomaih Energy & Water and Fisia Italimpianti.

Speaking on the occasion, the officials from each participating company shared their insights and visions for the Zuluf project.

As part of the ceremony, attendees were treated to an exclusive preview of the project's advances, showcasing the cutting-edge technology and infrastructure that will make the Zuluf Water Treatment Plant a beacon of sustainable water management. The event culminated with the laying of the foundation stone for the utility project.

Almar Water Solutions CEO Carlos Cosin said: "The Zuluf Water Treatment Plant is more than a project; it is a testament to our dedication in providing clean water to the broader region. This initiative is emblematic in a region teeming with opportunities, showcasing our commitment to sustainable development and meeting the growing water demands of the area."

A part of Abdul Latif Jameel Energy, Almar embraces technology to help partners and customers access solutions that prioritize efficiency and reduce waste.

"Through projects like this, Abdul Latif Jameel Energy is diversifying its portfolio in the Saudi water sector creating a broad network of large-scale water-based projects, which includes partnerships with leading global waste and water treatment engineering, services, and technology providersm," he added.

The collaboration between Almar Water Solutions, AEW and Aramco, represents a strategic partnership aimed at developing a cutting-edge water treatment facility to support the Zuluf project. The contract, signed in December 2022, reached financial closure by mid-March last year.-TradeArabia News Service
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. President Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree amending the Charter of the Mortgage and Credit Guarantee Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

According to the decree, subparagraph 5.6.9 of the charter was canceled.

This decree abolished the obligation to approve the prospectus for the issue of bonds of the Fund, which was the authority of the Chairman of the Board.

The MCGF (Mortgage and Credit Guarantee Fund of Azerbaijan) is a governmental fund formed by the merger of the Azerbaijan Mortgage Fund and the Credit Guarantee Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2017. Its goal is to improve living circumstances, establish an efficient financing mechanism for house construction, attract local and foreign investors to mortgage lending, and help SMEs gain access to credit.

The Chairman of the Management Board is Fakhri Kazimov.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE:ANF  Get Free Report)s share price traded down 7.6% during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as low as $124.20 and last traded at $124.76. 1,102,155 shares were traded during mid-day trading, a decline of 35% from the average session volume of 1,692,325 shares. The stock had previously closed at $134.97.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research firms recently weighed in on ANF. Telsey Advisory Group reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $152.00 price objective (up previously from $140.00) on shares of Abercrombie & Fitch in a research report on Wednesday, March 6th. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their target price on Abercrombie & Fitch from $149.00 to $155.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, March 6th. UBS Group boosted their target price on Abercrombie & Fitch from $98.00 to $130.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, February 26th. Citigroup upped their price objective on Abercrombie & Fitch from $100.00 to $127.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 27th. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on shares of Abercrombie & Fitch from $81.00 to $103.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, March 7th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned 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 $110.00.

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Abercrombie & Fitch Trading Up 0.7 %

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21, a quick ratio of 1.10 and a current ratio of 1.59. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $117.73 and its 200-day simple moving average is $87.65. The stock has a market cap of $6.15 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.61 and a beta of 1.59.

Abercrombie & Fitch (NYSE:ANF  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, March 6th. The apparel retailer reported $2.97 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.83 by $0.14. The company had revenue of $1.45 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.43 billion. Abercrombie & Fitch had a net margin of 7.67% and a return on equity of 38.80%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 21.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.81 EPS. Equities research analysts expect that Abercrombie & Fitch Co. will post 7.48 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Transactions at Abercrombie & Fitch

In related news, EVP Jay Rust sold 786 shares of Abercrombie & Fitch stock in a transaction on Friday, March 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $125.41, for a total value of $98,572.26. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 1,014 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $127,165.74. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Abercrombie & Fitch news, EVP Jay Rust sold 786 shares of Abercrombie & Fitch stock in a transaction on Friday, March 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $125.41, for a total transaction of $98,572.26. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 1,014 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $127,165.74. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Scott D. Lipesky sold 50,000 shares of Abercrombie & Fitch stock in a transaction on Monday, January 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $96.24, for a total transaction of $4,812,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 116,987 shares in the company, valued at $11,258,828.88. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 288,786 shares of company stock valued at $32,608,812 in the last quarter. 3.77% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Abercrombie & Fitch

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Franklin Resources Inc. raised its stake in shares of Abercrombie & Fitch by 0.4% during the 4th quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 25,435 shares of the apparel retailers stock worth $2,244,000 after purchasing an additional 93 shares during the period. National Bank of Canada FI raised its stake in shares of Abercrombie & Fitch by 1.6% during the 4th quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 8,587 shares of the apparel retailers stock worth $780,000 after purchasing an additional 132 shares during the period. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. raised its stake in shares of Abercrombie & Fitch by 36.7% during the 3rd quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 820 shares of the apparel retailers stock worth $46,000 after purchasing an additional 220 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its stake in shares of Abercrombie & Fitch by 5.5% during the 4th quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 4,379 shares of the apparel retailers stock worth $386,000 after purchasing an additional 227 shares during the period. Finally, Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC bought a new stake in shares of Abercrombie & Fitch during the 4th quarter worth $25,000.

About Abercrombie & Fitch

(Get Free Report)

Abercrombie & Fitch Co, through its subsidiaries, operates as a specialty retailer in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, the Asia-Pacific, Canada, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Hollister and Abercrombie. It offers an assortment of apparel, personal care products, and accessories for men, women, and kids under the Hollister, Gilly Hicks, Social Tourist, Abercrombie & Fitch, and abercrombie kids brands.

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Acorn Financial Advisory Services Inc. ADV decreased its stake in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:BSV  Free Report) by 6.6% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 12,740 shares of the companys stock after selling 893 shares during the period. Acorn Financial Advisory Services Inc. ADVs holdings in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF were worth $978,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. West Paces Advisors Inc. grew its stake in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 21.4% during the third quarter. West Paces Advisors Inc. now owns 766 shares of the companys stock worth $58,000 after purchasing an additional 135 shares during the period. International Assets Investment Management LLC grew its stake in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 1.4% during the third quarter. International Assets Investment Management LLC now owns 9,663 shares of the companys stock worth $724,000 after purchasing an additional 138 shares during the period. Fort Washington Investment Advisors Inc. OH grew its stake in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 1.8% during the third quarter. Fort Washington Investment Advisors Inc. OH now owns 8,640 shares of the companys stock worth $649,000 after purchasing an additional 150 shares during the period. Northstar Advisory Group LLC grew its stake in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 5.3% in the third quarter. Northstar Advisory Group LLC now owns 2,993 shares of the companys stock valued at $225,000 after acquiring an additional 151 shares during the period. Finally, Running Point Capital Advisors LLC grew its stake in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 4.8% in the third quarter. Running Point Capital Advisors LLC now owns 3,509 shares of the companys stock valued at $264,000 after acquiring an additional 161 shares during the period.

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Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF Stock Performance

BSV stock opened at $76.66 on Wednesday. Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF has a twelve month low of $74.61 and a twelve month high of $77.32. The stocks 50 day moving average is $76.67 and its 200-day moving average is $76.09.

Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF Company Profile

Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF (the Fund) seeks to track the performance of a market-weighted bond index with a short-term, dollar-weighted average maturity. The Fund employs a passive management or indexing strategy designed to track the performance of the Barclays Capital U.S. 1-5 Year Government/Credit Bond Index (the Index).

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ASM International NV (OTCMKTS:ASMIY  Get Free Report) was the recipient of a large drop in short interest in March. As of March 15th, there was short interest totalling 100 shares, a drop of 83.3% from the February 29th total of 600 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 6,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.0 days.

ASM International Stock Performance

ASMIY stock traded down $5.35 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $622.70. The stock had a trading volume of 2,128 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,261. The stock has a market cap of $30.72 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 49.38 and a beta of 1.69. The companys 50 day moving average price is $596.42 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $509.04. ASM International has a 1-year low of $343.37 and a 1-year high of $661.00.

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ASM International (OTCMKTS:ASMIY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 27th. The company reported $2.18 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The business had revenue of $681.50 million for the quarter. ASM International had a net margin of 28.49% and a return on equity of 18.74%. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that ASM International will post 13.83 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

ASM International Company Profile

ASM International NV, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the research, development, manufacture, marketing, and servicing of equipment and materials used to produce semiconductor devices in Europe, the United States, and Asia. The company's products include wafer processing deposition systems for atomic layer deposition (ALD), epitaxy, silicon carbide, plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), and vertical furnace systems, including low pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD), diffusion, and oxidation products, as well as provides spare parts and support services.

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PFG Investments LLC raised its position in Bank of America Co. (NYSE:BAC) by 0.9% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 44,999 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 415 shares during the quarter. PFG Investments LLCs holdings in Bank of America were worth $1,515,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Buckingham Strategic Partners increased its stake in shares of Bank of America by 23.7% in the second quarter. Buckingham Strategic Partners now owns 54,963 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,577,000 after purchasing an additional 10,535 shares during the period. Goodman Advisory Group LLC boosted its holdings in Bank of America by 104,312.4% during the second quarter. Goodman Advisory Group LLC now owns 194,207 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $5,572,000 after buying an additional 194,021 shares in the last quarter. Schechter Investment Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Bank of America by 8.2% during the third quarter. Schechter Investment Advisors LLC now owns 55,348 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,515,000 after buying an additional 4,187 shares in the last quarter. Eastern Bank boosted its holdings in Bank of America by 354.5% during the third quarter. Eastern Bank now owns 119,713 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $3,278,000 after buying an additional 93,375 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC lifted its position in Bank of America by 3.7% in the 3rd quarter. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC now owns 65,495 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,793,000 after buying an additional 2,332 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.71% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

BAC has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Odeon Capital Group downgraded shares of Bank of America from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $33.90 target price for the company. in a research report on Tuesday, January 16th. Barclays increased their target price on shares of Bank of America from $39.00 to $43.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, January 2nd. Morgan Stanley upgraded shares of Bank of America from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and increased their target price for the stock from $32.00 to $41.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 30th. Oppenheimer cut their price target on shares of Bank of America from $50.00 to $46.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, March 19th. Finally, Citigroup raised their price target on shares of Bank of America from $37.00 to $39.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, March 20th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Bank of America has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $35.65.

Insider Buying and Selling at Bank of America

In other news, major shareholder Of America Corp /De/ Bank purchased 5,398 shares of Bank of America stock in a transaction on Wednesday, December 27th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $10.56 per share, for a total transaction of $57,002.88. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 5,398 shares in the company, valued at $57,002.88. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.29% of the companys stock.

Bank of America Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:BAC traded up $0.25 on Tuesday, hitting $37.11. 33,662,004 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 41,197,430. The companys 50 day moving average price is $34.25 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $31.20. Bank of America Co. has a one year low of $24.96 and a one year high of $37.61. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.15, a quick ratio of 0.80 and a current ratio of 0.80. The firm has a market capitalization of $292.82 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.09, a PEG ratio of 1.69 and a beta of 1.38.

Bank of America (NYSE:BAC  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Friday, January 12th. The financial services provider reported $0.70 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.69 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $22 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $23.70 billion. Bank of America had a net margin of 15.42% and a return on equity of 11.38%. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 10.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.85 earnings per share. Research analysts expect that Bank of America Co. will post 3.12 earnings per share for the current year.

Bank of America Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, March 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 1st will be given a $0.24 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, February 29th. This represents a $0.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.59%. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 31.27%.

About Bank of America

(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. It operates in four segments: Consumer Banking, Global Wealth & Investment Management (GWIM), Global Banking, and Global Markets.

Further Reading

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StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Barnwell Industries (NYSE:BRN  Free Report) in a report published on Saturday morning. The firm issued a hold rating on the stock.

Separately, TheStreet downgraded Barnwell Industries from a c rating to a d+ rating in a report on Thursday, March 14th.

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Barnwell Industries Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:BRN opened at $2.38 on Friday. Barnwell Industries has a 1-year low of $2.06 and a 1-year high of $3.10. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $2.35 and a 200-day moving average price of $2.46. The company has a market capitalization of $23.87 million, a PE ratio of -8.81 and a beta of 0.19.

Barnwell Industries (NYSE:BRN  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, February 12th. The company reported ($0.07) earnings per share for the quarter. Barnwell Industries had a negative net margin of 11.35% and a negative return on equity of 14.70%. The company had revenue of $6.16 million for the quarter.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Barnwell Industries

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of BRN. Two Sigma Investments LP bought a new stake in Barnwell Industries in the 3rd quarter worth about $40,000. Susquehanna International Group LLP bought a new stake in Barnwell Industries in the 1st quarter worth about $75,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP purchased a new position in Barnwell Industries in the first quarter worth about $78,000. Acadian Asset Management LLC boosted its position in Barnwell Industries by 145.1% in the first quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 40,745 shares of the companys stock worth $104,000 after purchasing an additional 24,118 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Stilwell Value LLC purchased a new position in Barnwell Industries in the first quarter worth about $220,000. 40.71% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Barnwell Industries

(Get Free Report)

Barnwell Industries, Inc acquires, develops, produces, and sells oil and natural gas in Canada. The company operates through three segments: Oil and Natural Gas, Land Investment, and Contract Drilling. It also acquires and develops crude oil and natural gas assets in the province of Alberta, as well as invests in land interests in Hawaii.

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Shares of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. (NYSE:CLF  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $22.22 and last traded at $22.14, with a volume of 2651832 shares. The stock had previously closed at $21.57.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts recently commented on the company. BNP Paribas downgraded Cleveland-Cliffs from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and set a $16.50 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, February 28th. Morgan Stanley reissued an equal weight rating and issued a $20.00 price objective on shares of Cleveland-Cliffs in a report on Tuesday. StockNews.com cut Cleveland-Cliffs from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 21st. Citigroup downgraded shares of Cleveland-Cliffs from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $22.00 target price for the company. in a research note on Wednesday, March 13th. Finally, TheStreet cut shares of Cleveland-Cliffs from a b- rating to a c rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 30th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Cleveland-Cliffs presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $20.30.

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Cleveland-Cliffs Stock Up 2.4 %

The stocks fifty day moving average is $19.90 and its two-hundred day moving average is $18.01. The firm has a market cap of $11.00 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.77, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.74 and a beta of 2.02. The company has a current ratio of 1.89, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39.

Cleveland-Cliffs (NYSE:CLF  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, January 30th. The mining company reported ($0.05) EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of ($0.05). Cleveland-Cliffs had a return on equity of 6.79% and a net margin of 1.81%. The business had revenue of $5.11 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.16 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned ($0.30) earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 1.3% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. will post 1.84 earnings per share for the current year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Cleveland-Cliffs news, Director Susan Miranda Green sold 6,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $20.40, for a total transaction of $132,600.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 90,286 shares in the company, valued at $1,841,834.40. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other Cleveland-Cliffs news, Director Susan Miranda Green sold 6,500 shares of Cleveland-Cliffs stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $20.40, for a total transaction of $132,600.00. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 90,286 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,841,834.40. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Director Ron A. Bloom acquired 25,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 1st. The stock was acquired at an average price of $20.24 per share, with a total value of $506,000.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now owns 27,221 shares in the company, valued at approximately $550,953.04. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 221,066 shares of company stock valued at $4,464,688 in the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 1.57% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Korea Investment CORP grew its holdings in shares of Cleveland-Cliffs by 30.6% in the third quarter. Korea Investment CORP now owns 514,890 shares of the mining companys stock worth $8,048,000 after purchasing an additional 120,540 shares during the last quarter. Barclays PLC grew its holdings in Cleveland-Cliffs by 240.4% in the 3rd quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 1,988,689 shares of the mining companys stock worth $31,083,000 after acquiring an additional 1,404,491 shares during the last quarter. Douglas Lane & Associates LLC increased its position in shares of Cleveland-Cliffs by 55.5% in the third quarter. Douglas Lane & Associates LLC now owns 1,743,513 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $27,251,000 after acquiring an additional 621,937 shares during the period. Aigen Investment Management LP bought a new position in shares of Cleveland-Cliffs during the third quarter valued at about $4,970,000. Finally, Handelsinvest Investeringsforvaltning purchased a new stake in shares of Cleveland-Cliffs during the third quarter worth about $3,908,000. 67.68% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Cleveland-Cliffs Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Cleveland-Cliffs is the largest flat-rolled steel company and the largest iron ore pellet producer in North America. The company is vertically integrated from mining through iron making, steelmaking, rolling, finishing and downstream with hot and cold stamping of steel parts and components. The company was formerly known as Cliffs Natural Resources Inc and changed its name to Cleveland-Cliffs Inc in August 2017.

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Atlas Arteria Limited (ASX:ALX  Get Free Report) insider Debra (Debbie) Goodin acquired 4,023 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 26th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of A$5.09 ($3.32) per share, with a total value of A$20,465.00 ($13,375.82).

Atlas Arteria Price Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 1.77, a current ratio of 2.90 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 27.59.

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Atlas Arteria Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a Final dividend, which will be paid on Sunday, April 7th. Investors of record on Sunday, April 7th will be given a dividend of $0.20 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, March 25th. This represents a yield of 3.77%. Atlas Arterias dividend payout ratio is 181.82%.

Atlas Arteria Company Profile

Atlas Arteria Limited owns, develops, and operates toll roads. It holds a 31.14% of interest in the APRR and A79 and 31.17% interest in the ADELAC located in France; 100% interest in the Warnow Tunnel located in Rostock, Germany; 66.67% interest in the Chicago Skyway situated in Chicago and 100% interest in the Dulles Greenway located in Virginia, United States.

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Eldorado Gold Co. (TSE:ELD  Get Free Report) (NYSE:EGO) Senior Officer Peter Jonathan Lind sold 9,130 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$18.24, for a total transaction of C$166,531.20.

Eldorado Gold Stock Up 1.4 %

ELD stock opened at C$18.70 on Wednesday. Eldorado Gold Co. has a twelve month low of C$11.38 and a twelve month high of C$18.93. The company has a current ratio of 3.39, a quick ratio of 2.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 18.60. The company has a market capitalization of C$3.80 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.26, a PEG ratio of 56.20 and a beta of 1.13. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of C$16.25 and a 200-day simple moving average of C$15.51.

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Eldorado Gold (TSE:ELD  Get Free Report) (NYSE:EGO) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 22nd. The company reported C$0.33 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of C$0.28 by C$0.05. The business had revenue of C$417.85 million during the quarter. Eldorado Gold had a net margin of 10.37% and a return on equity of 3.15%. On average, equities research analysts predict that Eldorado Gold Co. will post 0.9598263 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms recently issued reports on ELD. BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on shares of Eldorado Gold from C$17.00 to C$18.00 in a research report on Wednesday, December 13th. Stifel Nicolaus lowered shares of Eldorado Gold from a buy rating to a hold rating and raised their price target for the company from C$15.50 to C$17.25 in a report on Friday, January 26th. National Bankshares cut their price target on shares of Eldorado Gold from C$21.00 to C$19.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Monday, February 26th. National Bank Financial reiterated an outperform spec overweight rating on shares of Eldorado Gold in a research note on Wednesday, January 3rd. Finally, Cormark dropped their price objective on shares of Eldorado Gold from C$26.00 to C$25.00 in a research note on Monday, February 26th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of C$18.06.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on ELD

About Eldorado Gold

(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 mines located in Turkey; Lamaque complex 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.

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Heartwood Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:GTEK  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund acquired 460,515 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $12,835,000. Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF makes up about 1.7% of Heartwood Wealth Advisors LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 21st biggest holding. Heartwood Wealth Advisors LLC owned 4.51% of Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in GTEK. Morgan Stanley lifted its position in Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF by 14.5% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 3,906,500 shares of the companys stock valued at $81,715,000 after acquiring an additional 493,450 shares in the last quarter. Jane Street Group LLC lifted its position in Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF by 1,120.8% in the 4th quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 331,611 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,937,000 after acquiring an additional 304,447 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. lifted its position in Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF by 120.9% in the 3rd quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 185,265 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,365,000 after acquiring an additional 101,412 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its position in Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF by 3.8% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 1,927,217 shares of the companys stock worth $60,496,000 after buying an additional 70,072 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. bought a new stake in Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF during the 1st quarter worth about $1,345,000.

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Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF Price Performance

Shares of NYSEARCA:GTEK opened at $29.36 on Wednesday. The companys 50-day moving average price is $28.65 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $26.34. Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF has a one year low of $21.82 and a one year high of $29.74. The stock has a market capitalization of $299.43 million, a PE ratio of 22.48 and a beta of 1.13.

About Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF

The Goldman Sachs Future Tech Leaders Equity ETF (GTEK) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in stocks based on a particular theme. The fund actively invests in potentially growing technology companies that are believed to drive tech innovation around the world. GTEK was launched on Sep 14, 2021 and is managed by Goldman Sachs.

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Highland Capital Management LLC cut its stake in shares of Koninklijke Philips (NYSE:PHG  Free Report) by 1.8% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 84,074 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 1,501 shares during the period. Highland Capital Management LLCs holdings in Koninklijke Philips were worth $1,961,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Koninklijke Philips by 166.7% in the 3rd quarter. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 1,600 shares of the technology companys stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 1,000 shares in the last quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC increased its position in Koninklijke Philips by 28.7% during the first quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 2,226 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $41,000 after acquiring an additional 496 shares during the last quarter. Allworth Financial LP lifted its stake in shares of Koninklijke Philips by 113.3% in the 3rd quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 3,242 shares of the technology companys stock worth $65,000 after purchasing an additional 1,722 shares during the period. Credit Suisse AG purchased a new position in shares of Koninklijke Philips during the 2nd quarter worth $65,000. Finally, Spire Wealth Management grew its holdings in Koninklijke Philips by 127.2% during the third quarter. Spire Wealth Management now owns 3,446 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $69,000 after purchasing an additional 1,929 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 13.67% of the companys stock.

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Koninklijke Philips Stock Performance

Shares of PHG stock traded up $0.31 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $20.35. 305,179 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,009,118. Koninklijke Philips has a fifty-two week low of $16.18 and a fifty-two week high of $24.27. The company has a current ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $21.06 and a two-hundred day moving average of $20.93.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Koninklijke Philips ( NYSE:PHG Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, January 29th. The technology company reported $0.44 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.41 by $0.03. Koninklijke Philips had a negative net margin of 2.53% and a positive return on equity of 14.17%. The business had revenue of $5.45 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.47 billion. On average, equities research analysts predict that Koninklijke Philips will post 1.52 EPS for the current fiscal year.

PHG has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. BNP Paribas lowered shares of Koninklijke Philips from an outperform rating to an underperform rating in a report on Wednesday, February 7th. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Koninklijke Philips from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has given a hold rating, one has given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Koninklijke Philips currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $19.00.

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Koninklijke Philips Profile

(Free Report)

Koninklijke Philips N.V. operates as a health technology company in North America, the Greater China, and internationally. The company operates through Diagnosis & Treatment Businesses, Connected Care Businesses, and Personal Health Businesses segments. It also provides diagnostic imaging solutions, includes magnetic resonance imaging, X-ray systems, and computed tomography (CT) systems and software comprising detector-based spectral CT solutions, as well as molecular and hybrid imaging solutions for nuclear medicine; echography solutions focused on diagnosis, treatment planning and guidance for cardiology, general imaging, obstetrics/gynecology, and point-of-care applications; integrated interventional systems, and interventional diagnostic and therapeutic devices to treat coronary artery and peripheral vascular disease.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on the appointment of the rector of Baku State University, Trend reports.

According to the decree, Elchin Babayev was appointed the university's rector.

Baku State University is a public university located in Baku, Azerbaijan. The Parliament of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic established the university on September 1, 1919, with faculties of history and philology, physics and mathematics, and law and medicine, and an initial enrollment of 1094.
Kozak & Associates Inc. cut its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 29.7% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 878 shares of the investment management companys stock after selling 371 shares during the quarter. Kozak & Associates Inc.s holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $334,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in GS. State Street Corp raised its position in The Goldman Sachs Group by 0.4% in the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 19,822,469 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $6,393,539,000 after acquiring an additional 76,641 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley raised its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 40.0% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 5,936,351 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $2,038,425,000 after purchasing an additional 1,696,350 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp lifted its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group by 1.1% in the third quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 4,764,509 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $1,396,236,000 after purchasing an additional 52,016 shares during the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp grew its holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group by 3.2% during the third quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 3,339,851 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $1,080,676,000 after purchasing an additional 104,424 shares during the period. Finally, Invesco Ltd. increased its position in The Goldman Sachs Group by 6.1% in the third quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 2,792,239 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $903,485,000 after buying an additional 159,512 shares during the last quarter. 71.21% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Up 0.4 %

The Goldman Sachs Group stock traded up $1.49 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $406.43. The stock had a trading volume of 1,405,750 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,340,536. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $387.31 and its 200-day moving average price is $356.56. The stock has a market capitalization of $131.90 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.81, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.59 and a beta of 1.42. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 12-month low of $289.36 and a 12-month high of $416.76. The company has a quick ratio of 0.76, a current ratio of 0.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.29.

The Goldman Sachs Group Announces Dividend

The Goldman Sachs Group ( NYSE:GS Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, January 16th. The investment management company reported $5.48 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.62 by $1.86. The firm had revenue of $11.32 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.80 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 8.03% and a net margin of 7.85%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 6.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $3.32 earnings per share. Equities research analysts anticipate that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 32.6 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 28th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, February 29th will be paid a dividend of $2.75 per share. This represents a $11.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.71%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, February 28th. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 48.20%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, insider Brian J. Lee sold 3,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, January 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $376.39, for a total value of $1,129,170.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 10,121 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,809,443.19. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In related news, CFO Denis P. Coleman sold 12,680 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $394.43, for a total value of $5,001,372.40. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 29,417 shares in the company, valued at approximately $11,602,947.31. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Brian J. Lee sold 3,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, January 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $376.39, for a total value of $1,129,170.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 10,121 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,809,443.19. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 38,907 shares of company stock worth $15,080,021 in the last three months. Corporate insiders own 0.54% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on GS shares. Edward Jones started coverage on The Goldman Sachs Group in a research note on Tuesday, February 27th. They set a buy rating for the company. Oppenheimer reduced their target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $506.00 to $446.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, March 19th. Morgan Stanley raised shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and raised their price objective for the stock from $333.00 to $449.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 30th. BMO Capital Markets boosted their target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $357.00 to $360.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Thursday, January 18th. Finally, JMP Securities reaffirmed 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 investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fourteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, The Goldman Sachs Group presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $406.87.

Get Our Latest Analysis on The Goldman Sachs Group

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 financing under securities to resale agreements.

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Shares of Laboratory Co. of America Holdings (NYSE:LH  Get Free Report) have been given an average recommendation of Moderate Buy by the fourteen research firms that are presently covering the firm, Marketbeat.com reports. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and eleven have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month price target among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $243.50.

LH has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Argus raised Laboratory Co. of America from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $250.00 target price on the stock in a research note on Monday. TheStreet downgraded Laboratory Co. of America from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Thursday, February 15th. SVB Leerink initiated coverage on Laboratory Co. of America in a research note on Monday, February 26th. They issued an outperform rating and a $260.00 price objective on the stock. Barclays initiated coverage on Laboratory Co. of America in a research note on Wednesday, January 3rd. They issued an equal weight rating and a $222.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Leerink Partnrs reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Laboratory Co. of America in a research note on Monday, February 26th.

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Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Laboratory Co. of America

Insider Activity at Laboratory Co. of America

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Laboratory Co. of America

In other Laboratory Co. of America news, EVP Der Vaart Sandra D. Van sold 237 shares of Laboratory Co. of America stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $226.45, for a total transaction of $53,668.65. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 7,637 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,729,398.65. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website . In other Laboratory Co. of America news, COO Mark S. Schroeder sold 5,048 shares of Laboratory Co. of America stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $218.45, for a total transaction of $1,102,735.60. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now directly owns 5,036 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,100,114.20. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website . Also, EVP Der Vaart Sandra D. Van sold 237 shares of Laboratory Co. of America stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $226.45, for a total value of $53,668.65. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 7,637 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,729,398.65. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold a total of 40,775 shares of company stock worth $8,823,080 in the last quarter. 0.65% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of LH. BlackRock Inc. raised its position in shares of Laboratory Co. of America by 6.2% in the 2nd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 12,703,935 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $3,065,841,000 after acquiring an additional 743,824 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Laboratory Co. of America by 1.0% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 10,859,128 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $2,863,118,000 after acquiring an additional 106,063 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP increased its position in Laboratory Co. of America by 20.6% during the 3rd quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 2,487,106 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $500,033,000 after buying an additional 424,684 shares in the last quarter. Morgan Stanley increased its position in Laboratory Co. of America by 102.6% during the 3rd quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 2,219,291 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $446,189,000 after buying an additional 1,123,755 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC increased its position in Laboratory Co. of America by 28.0% during the 3rd quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 2,212,497 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $444,821,000 after buying an additional 483,878 shares in the last quarter. 95.94% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Laboratory Co. of America Stock Down 0.1 %

Shares of LH opened at $213.52 on Wednesday. The businesss 50 day moving average is $219.39 and its 200 day moving average is $213.99. The company has a market capitalization of $17.96 billion, a PE ratio of 45.72, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.61 and a beta of 1.02. Laboratory Co. of America has a 12-month low of $174.20 and a 12-month high of $234.09. The company has a current ratio of 1.17, a quick ratio of 1.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52.

Laboratory Co. of America (NYSE:LH  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, February 15th. The medical research company reported $3.30 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.29 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $3.03 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.02 billion. Laboratory Co. of America had a return on equity of 13.99% and a net margin of 3.24%. The firms quarterly revenue was down 17.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $4.14 EPS. Research analysts expect that Laboratory Co. of America will post 14.77 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Laboratory Co. of America Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 13th. Investors of record on Tuesday, February 27th were issued a dividend of $0.72 per share. This represents a $2.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.35%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, February 26th. Laboratory Co. of Americas payout ratio is currently 61.67%.

About Laboratory Co. of America

(Get Free Report

Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings operates as a life sciences company that provides vital information to help doctors, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, researchers, and patients make clear and confident decisions. It operates in two segments, Labcorp Diagnostics (Dx) and Biopharma Laboratory Services (BLS).

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3M (NYSE:MMM  Get Free Report)s stock had its neutral rating reissued by equities research analysts at Mizuho in a research note issued to investors on Wednesday, Benzinga reports. They currently have a $105.00 target price on the conglomerates stock. Mizuhos price objective points to a potential upside of 0.75% from the stocks current price.

Other equities analysts also recently issued reports about the company. StockNews.com started coverage on 3M in a report on Wednesday. They set a buy rating for the company. Barclays upgraded shares of 3M from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and boosted their price objective for the stock from $111.00 to $126.00 in a report on Tuesday, March 19th. Citigroup reduced their target price on 3M from $117.00 to $104.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed an underperform rating and set a $84.00 price target on shares of 3M in a report on Wednesday, March 20th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price objective on 3M from $112.00 to $105.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $107.60.

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3M Trading Up 1.5 %

MMM stock traded up $1.59 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $104.22. The company had a trading volume of 1,865,460 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,083,011. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.69, a current ratio of 1.07 and a quick ratio of 0.76. 3M has a 52 week low of $85.35 and a 52 week high of $113.14. The business has a 50 day moving average of $96.99 and a 200 day moving average of $97.76. The company has a market cap of $57.60 billion, a P/E ratio of -8.24, a PEG ratio of 1.48 and a beta of 1.00.

3M (NYSE:MMM  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, January 23rd. The conglomerate reported $2.42 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.31 by $0.11. 3M had a positive return on equity of 62.45% and a negative net margin of 21.40%. The business had revenue of $8.01 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.69 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $2.28 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was down 1.1% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that 3M will post 9.77 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Transactions at 3M

In other news, insider Rodriguez Beatriz Karin Chavez sold 426 shares of 3M stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $92.32, for a total transaction of $39,328.32. Following the sale, the insider now owns 3,966 shares in the company, valued at $366,141.12. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this link. Corporate insiders own 0.51% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On 3M

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in MMM. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS boosted its holdings in shares of 3M by 15.4% in the 3rd quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 110,988 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $10,391,000 after purchasing an additional 14,775 shares during the period. Cornerstone Wealth Group LLC bought a new position in 3M during the third quarter valued at $3,855,000. Shoker Investment Counsel Inc. raised its stake in shares of 3M by 49.7% in the third quarter. Shoker Investment Counsel Inc. now owns 16,747 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $1,568,000 after acquiring an additional 5,561 shares during the period. Diversified Trust Co boosted its stake in shares of 3M by 1.4% during the 4th quarter. Diversified Trust Co now owns 18,487 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $2,021,000 after purchasing an additional 263 shares during the period. Finally, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board bought a new position in 3M during the 3rd quarter valued at about $11,908,000. 65.25% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About 3M

(Get Free Report)

3M Company provides diversified technology services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through four segments: Safety and Industrial; Transportation and Electronics; Health Care; and Consumer. The Safety and Industrial segment offers industrial abrasives and finishing for metalworking applications; autobody repair solutions; closure systems for personal hygiene products, masking, and packaging materials; electrical products and materials for construction and maintenance, power distribution, and electrical original equipment manufacturers; structural adhesives and tapes; respiratory, hearing, eye, and fall protection solutions; and natural and color-coated mineral granules for shingles.

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PFG Investments LLC reduced its position in The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG  Free Report) by 1.9% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 22,497 shares of the companys stock after selling 447 shares during the quarter. Procter & Gamble comprises about 0.6% of PFG Investments LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 27th largest position. PFG Investments LLCs holdings in Procter & Gamble were worth $3,297,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. State Street Corp grew its holdings in shares of Procter & Gamble by 0.8% during the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 103,104,467 shares of the companys stock valued at $15,645,072,000 after purchasing an additional 817,674 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Procter & Gamble by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 46,754,131 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,936,343,000 after purchasing an additional 510,559 shares during the last quarter. Morgan Stanley grew its holdings in 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 acquiring an additional 4,959,527 shares during the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in 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 acquiring an additional 38,495,676 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP grew its holdings in Procter & Gamble by 9.4% during the 3rd quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 35,608,913 shares of the companys stock worth $5,193,916,000 after acquiring an additional 3,047,557 shares during the last quarter. 65.77% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on PG shares. Raymond James boosted their target price on shares of Procter & Gamble from $170.00 to $175.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Barclays boosted their target price on shares of Procter & Gamble from $160.00 to $165.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, January 25th. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of Procter & Gamble from $162.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, January 24th. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price target on shares of Procter & Gamble from $155.00 to $157.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 24th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group started coverage on shares of Procter & Gamble in a research report on Friday, March 1st. They issued a neutral rating and a $168.00 price target on the stock. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $168.41.

Procter & Gamble Stock Up 1.1 %

Shares of Procter & Gamble stock traded up $1.73 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $162.28. 579,981 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 6,801,307. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a current ratio of 0.64 and a quick ratio of 0.44. The Procter & Gamble Company has a 1-year low of $141.45 and a 1-year high of $162.73. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $157.95 and a 200-day moving average price of $152.04. The firm has a market capitalization of $381.85 billion, a PE ratio of 26.89, a P/E/G ratio of 3.27 and a beta of 0.44.

Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, January 23rd. The company reported $1.84 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.70 by $0.14. Procter & Gamble had a net margin of 17.60% and a return on equity of 34.04%. The company had revenue of $21.44 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $21.48 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.59 EPS. Procter & Gambles quarterly revenue was up 3.2% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts expect that The Procter & Gamble Company will post 6.45 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Procter & Gamble Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, February 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, January 19th were paid a $0.9407 dividend. This represents a $3.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.32%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, January 18th. Procter & Gambles dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 62.98%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Procter & Gamble

In other Procter & Gamble news, insider Marc S. Pritchard sold 101,704 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, January 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $153.57, for a total value of $15,618,683.28. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 163,428 shares of the companys stock, valued at $25,097,637.96. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other Procter & Gamble news, insider Marc S. Pritchard sold 101,704 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, January 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $153.57, for a total value of $15,618,683.28. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 163,428 shares of the companys stock, valued at $25,097,637.96. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, CEO Ma. Fatima Francisco sold 74,443 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, January 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $153.30, for a total transaction of $11,412,111.90. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 973 shares in the company, valued at $149,160.90. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 279,063 shares of company stock valued at $43,187,745. Corporate insiders own 0.17% of the companys stock.

Procter & Gamble Company 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.

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Pinnacle Wealth Management Group Inc. boosted its position in Crown Castle Inc. (NYSE:CCI  Free Report) by 11.3% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 4,664 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 475 shares during the period. Pinnacle Wealth Management Group Inc.s holdings in Crown Castle were worth $537,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. BlackRock Inc. boosted its holdings in Crown Castle by 0.8% during the second quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 31,643,321 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $3,605,440,000 after buying an additional 258,811 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp boosted its holdings in Crown Castle by 1.4% during the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 20,907,232 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $2,382,170,000 after buying an additional 279,702 shares during the last quarter. Morgan Stanley boosted its holdings in Crown Castle by 8.9% during the third quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 13,078,861 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,203,648,000 after buying an additional 1,064,382 shares during the last quarter. FMR LLC boosted its holdings in Crown Castle by 14.3% during the third quarter. FMR LLC now owns 11,936,611 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,098,526,000 after buying an additional 1,496,330 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cohen & Steers Inc. boosted its holdings in Crown Castle by 27.6% during the second quarter. Cohen & Steers Inc. now owns 11,076,246 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,262,045,000 after buying an additional 2,398,791 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 90.77% of the companys stock.

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Crown Castle Price Performance

Crown Castle stock opened at $101.93 on Wednesday. Crown Castle Inc. has a 52 week low of $84.72 and a 52 week high of $136.29. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $108.10 and a 200 day simple moving average of $104.60. The company has a quick ratio of 0.40, a current ratio of 0.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.46. The stock has a market cap of $44.29 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.46, a PEG ratio of 2.75 and a beta of 0.74.

Crown Castle Announces Dividend

Analyst Ratings Changes

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 28th. Investors of record on Friday, March 15th will be given a dividend of $1.565 per share. This represents a $6.26 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.14%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 14th. Crown Castles payout ratio is 180.92%.

A number of research firms have recently commented on CCI. BMO Capital Markets raised Crown Castle from an underperform rating to a market perform rating and raised their price target for the stock from $107.00 to $110.00 in a research report on Friday, January 19th. HSBC started coverage on Crown Castle in a research report on Thursday, December 14th. They issued a hold rating and a $110.00 target price on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their target price on Crown Castle from $92.00 to $109.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 21st. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company raised Crown Castle from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and lifted their target price for the company from $90.00 to $115.00 in a research report on Tuesday, December 5th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $121.33.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Crown Castle

Crown Castle Company Profile

(Free Report)

Crown Castle owns, operates and leases more than 40,000 cell towers and approximately 90,000 route miles of fiber supporting small cells and fiber solutions across every major U.S. market. This nationwide portfolio of communications infrastructure connects cities and communities to essential data, technology and wireless service  bringing information, ideas and innovations to the people and businesses that need them.

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Viking Fund Management LLC lessened its position in Pioneer Natural Resources (NYSE:PXD  Free Report) by 49.2% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 28,000 shares of the oil and gas development companys stock after selling 27,120 shares during the period. Pioneer Natural Resources makes up 1.2% of Viking Fund Management LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 26th largest holding. Viking Fund Management LLCs holdings in Pioneer Natural Resources were worth $6,297,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Pioneer Natural Resources by 0.6% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 20,015,751 shares of the oil and gas development companys stock worth $4,594,616,000 after acquiring an additional 113,751 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Pioneer Natural Resources by 3.6% in the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 4,337,964 shares of the oil and gas development companys stock valued at $884,893,000 after purchasing an additional 149,026 shares in the last quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Pioneer Natural Resources by 46.4% in the 4th quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 4,242,203 shares of the oil and gas development companys stock valued at $968,877,000 after purchasing an additional 1,343,601 shares in the last quarter. Clearbridge Investments LLC increased its holdings in shares of Pioneer Natural Resources by 7.6% in the 3rd quarter. Clearbridge Investments LLC now owns 3,259,731 shares of the oil and gas development companys stock valued at $748,271,000 after purchasing an additional 231,470 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its holdings in shares of Pioneer Natural Resources by 25.7% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 3,239,964 shares of the oil and gas development companys stock valued at $743,734,000 after purchasing an additional 662,891 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.72% of the companys stock.

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Pioneer Natural Resources Trading Down 0.5 %

NYSE PXD traded down $1.34 on Tuesday, hitting $256.87. 1,122,878 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,119,481. The firm has a market capitalization of $60.01 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.69 and a beta of 1.30. Pioneer Natural Resources has a twelve month low of $190.56 and a twelve month high of $260.42. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21, a current ratio of 0.88 and a quick ratio of 0.72. The companys 50 day moving average price is $234.36 and its 200-day moving average price is $233.42.

Pioneer Natural Resources Cuts Dividend

Pioneer Natural Resources ( NYSE:PXD Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 22nd. The oil and gas development company reported $5.28 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $5.41 by ($0.13). The company had revenue of $5.22 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.28 billion. Pioneer Natural Resources had a net margin of 25.28% and a return on equity of 22.42%. The firms revenue was up 2.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $5.91 earnings per share. Analysts predict that Pioneer Natural Resources will post 20.35 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 22nd. Investors of record on Monday, March 4th were issued a $2.56 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, March 1st. This represents a $10.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.99%. Pioneer Natural Resourcess dividend payout ratio is 24.70%.

Insider Activity at Pioneer Natural Resources

In related news, EVP Mark H. Kleinman sold 4,350 shares of Pioneer Natural Resources stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $254.08, for a total value of $1,105,248.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 45,506 shares in the company, valued at $11,562,164.48. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In other news, Director Scott D. Sheffield sold 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $235.25, for a total transaction of $2,352,500.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 462,112 shares in the company, valued at approximately $108,711,848. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, EVP Mark H. Kleinman sold 4,350 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $254.08, for a total value of $1,105,248.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 45,506 shares of the companys stock, valued at $11,562,164.48. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 33,350 shares of company stock valued at $8,175,628 over the last ninety days. 0.57% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts have weighed in on the stock. Susquehanna raised their target price on shares of Pioneer Natural Resources from $237.00 to $246.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, March 4th. Mizuho lifted their price target on shares of Pioneer Natural Resources from $276.00 to $290.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, March 19th. UBS Group lowered their price target on shares of Pioneer Natural Resources from $269.00 to $250.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Thursday, December 14th. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Pioneer Natural Resources in a report on Wednesday, March 20th. They set a hold rating for the company. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus lowered their price target on shares of Pioneer Natural Resources from $243.00 to $224.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have issued a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Pioneer Natural Resources presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $254.90.

Read Our Latest Report on Pioneer Natural Resources

About Pioneer Natural Resources

(Free Report)

Pioneer Natural Resources Company operates as an independent oil and gas exploration and production company in the United States. The company explores for, develops, and produces oil, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and gas. It has operations in the Midland Basin in West Texas. The company was founded in 1997 and is headquartered in Irving, Texas.

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StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Hess (NYSE:HES  Free Report) in a research report sent to investors on Sunday. The firm issued a sell rating on the oil and gas producers stock.

Several other brokerages have also commented on HES. Piper Sandler increased their price objective on Hess from $169.00 to $172.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, March 14th. UBS Group cut their price objective on shares of Hess from $210.00 to $195.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, December 14th. Mizuho lifted their target price on shares of Hess from $200.00 to $205.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, March 20th. Finally, Susquehanna upped their price target on shares of Hess from $152.00 to $156.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, March 4th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Hess presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $175.23.

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Hess Trading Down 1.2 %

HES opened at $149.61 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 1.05, a quick ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88. The firm has a market cap of $45.95 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.25 and a beta of 1.27. Hess has a 12 month low of $122.71 and a 12 month high of $167.75. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $145.33 and a 200-day moving average price of $147.06.

Hess (NYSE:HES  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, January 31st. The oil and gas producer reported $1.63 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.43 by $0.20. Hess had a net margin of 12.98% and a return on equity of 17.00%. The business had revenue of $3.04 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.76 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.78 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down .6% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Hess will post 7.44 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Hess Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, March 28th. Shareholders of record on Monday, March 18th will be paid a dividend of $0.4375 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, March 15th. This represents a $1.75 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.17%. Hesss payout ratio is currently 38.89%.

Insider Activity

In other Hess news, CEO John B. Hess sold 73,885 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $145.87, for a total value of $10,777,604.95. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 138,718 shares in the company, valued at approximately $20,234,794.66. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other Hess news, CEO John B. Hess sold 73,885 shares of Hess stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $145.87, for a total value of $10,777,604.95. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 138,718 shares of the companys stock, valued at $20,234,794.66. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, SVP Andrew P. Slentz sold 1,062 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $144.52, for a total transaction of $153,480.24. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 50,215 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,257,071.80. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 155,798 shares of company stock valued at $22,811,166 in the last quarter. 9.91% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Hess

A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of HES. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC lifted its position in shares of Hess by 1,456.8% during the 4th quarter. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC now owns 7,504 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $1,082,000 after buying an additional 7,022 shares in the last quarter. Point72 Europe London LLP acquired a new stake in shares of Hess in the second quarter valued at about $10,985,000. California State Teachers Retirement System grew its position in shares of Hess by 8.7% in the third quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System now owns 564,454 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $86,361,000 after purchasing an additional 45,246 shares during the period. Belpointe Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Hess during the third quarter worth about $222,000. Finally, BOKF NA raised its position in shares of Hess by 20.7% during the 2nd quarter. BOKF NA now owns 34,301 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $4,663,000 after purchasing an additional 5,889 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 88.51% of the companys stock.

About Hess

(Get Free Report)

Hess Corporation, an exploration and production company, explores, develops, produces, purchases, transports, and sells crude oil, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and natural gas. The company operates in two segments, Exploration and Production, and Midstream. It conducts production operations primarily in the United States, Guyana, the Malaysia/Thailand Joint Development Area, and Malaysia; and exploration activities principally offshore Guyana, the U.S.

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Shares of Suzano S.A. (NYSE:SUZ  Get Free Report) hit a new 52-week high on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $12.68 and last traded at $12.68, with a volume of 3888 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $12.66.

Suzano Stock Up 0.6 %

The company has a quick ratio of 2.20, a current ratio of 2.61 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.62. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $11.19 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $10.95. The stock has a market cap of $16.86 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.95 and a beta of 1.04.

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Suzano (NYSE:SUZ  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, February 28th. The company reported $0.70 EPS for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.70. The company had revenue of $2.09 billion during the quarter. Suzano had a return on equity of 33.35% and a net margin of 35.19%. On average, equities analysts forecast that Suzano S.A. will post 1.65 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Suzano

Suzano Company Profile

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in SUZ. JPMorgan Chase & Co. purchased a new stake in Suzano in the first quarter worth $150,000. American Century Companies Inc. grew its stake in shares of Suzano by 47.1% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 155,762 shares of the companys stock worth $1,810,000 after acquiring an additional 49,871 shares during the last quarter. US Bancorp DE grew its stake in shares of Suzano by 14.7% in the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 9,367 shares of the companys stock worth $109,000 after acquiring an additional 1,200 shares during the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Suzano in the first quarter worth $2,837,000. Finally, BlackRock Inc. grew its stake in shares of Suzano by 6.0% in the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 397,155 shares of the companys stock worth $4,615,000 after acquiring an additional 22,361 shares during the last quarter. 2.55% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

(Get Free Report)

Suzano SA produces and sells eucalyptus pulp and paper products in Brazil and internationally. It operates through Pulp and Paper segments. The company offers coated and uncoated printing and writing papers, paperboards, tissue papers, and market and fluff pulps; and lignin. It also engages in the research, development, and production of biofuel; operation of port terminals; power generation and distribution business; commercialization of equipment and parts; industrialization, commercialization, and exporting of pulp and standing wood; road freight transport; biotechnology research and development; and commercialization of paper and computer materials.

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Trust Co of the South bought a new position in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm bought 27,863 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock, valued at approximately $802,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in PFE. Worth Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Pfizer during the 1st quarter worth about $29,000. Briaud Financial Planning Inc acquired a new stake in shares of Pfizer during the 3rd quarter worth about $30,000. GoalVest Advisory LLC raised its position in shares of Pfizer by 304.9% during the 4th quarter. GoalVest Advisory LLC now owns 1,077 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $31,000 after acquiring an additional 811 shares in the last quarter. Mizuho Securities Co. Ltd. acquired a new position in Pfizer during the third quarter worth approximately $34,000. Finally, VisionPoint Advisory Group LLC increased its position in Pfizer by 52,350.0% during the third quarter. VisionPoint Advisory Group LLC now owns 1,049 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $35,000 after buying an additional 1,047 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.36% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts have commented on the company. Argus lowered Pfizer from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday. Cantor Fitzgerald reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $45.00 target price on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Friday, March 1st. TD Cowen downgraded Pfizer from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and set a $32.00 target price on the stock. in a research note on Thursday, January 4th. UBS Group lowered their target price on Pfizer from $34.00 to $27.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, December 14th. Finally, Guggenheim assumed coverage on Pfizer in a research note on Friday, February 23rd. They issued a buy rating and a $36.00 target price on the stock. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Pfizer currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $36.88.

Pfizer Price Performance

PFE traded up $0.16 during trading on Tuesday, reaching $27.59. 38,171,684 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 44,040,355. Pfizer Inc. has a 1 year low of $25.61 and a 1 year high of $42.22. The company has a market capitalization of $156.23 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 76.64, a P/E/G ratio of 1.23 and a beta of 0.61. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $27.48 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $29.52. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69, a current ratio of 0.91 and a quick ratio of 0.69.

Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.10 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of ($0.19) by $0.29. Pfizer had a return on equity of 10.88% and a net margin of 3.62%. The company had revenue of $14.25 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.37 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $1.14 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 41.3% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.22 earnings per share for the current year.

Pfizer Company Profile

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, 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.

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WASHINGTON TRUST Co lessened its stake in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:AGG  Free Report) by 1.8% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 161,788 shares of the companys stock after selling 3,025 shares during the quarter. WASHINGTON TRUST Cos holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF were worth $16,058,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. 25 LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 23.1% during the 4th quarter. 25 LLC now owns 6,532 shares of the companys stock worth $648,000 after buying an additional 1,227 shares during the period. Sage Financial Group Inc. lifted its position in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 91.3% during the 4th quarter. Sage Financial Group Inc. now owns 12,034 shares of the companys stock worth $1,194,000 after acquiring an additional 5,744 shares during the last quarter. Grey Fox Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its position in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 4.3% during the 4th quarter. Grey Fox Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 132,984 shares of the companys stock worth $13,199,000 after acquiring an additional 5,535 shares during the last quarter. Professional Financial Advisors LLC lifted its position in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 513.7% during the 4th quarter. Professional Financial Advisors LLC now owns 641,087 shares of the companys stock worth $63,628,000 after acquiring an additional 536,628 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Procyon Advisors LLC lifted its position in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 396.3% during the 4th quarter. Procyon Advisors LLC now owns 74,033 shares of the companys stock worth $7,348,000 after acquiring an additional 59,117 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 83.63% of the companys stock.

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iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Stock Up 0.2 %

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF stock traded up $0.24 on Wednesday, reaching $97.98. 6,133,545 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 8,856,173. iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF has a twelve month low of $91.58 and a twelve month high of $100.98. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $97.71 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $96.35.

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Company Profile

IShares are index funds that are bought and sold like common stocks on national securities exchanges as well as certain foreign exchanges. iShares are attractive because of their relatively low cost, tax efficiency and trading flexibility. Investors can purchase and sell shares through any brokerage firm, financial advisor, or online broker, and hold the funds in any type of brokerage account.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. We strongly condemn and reject the anti-Azerbaijani allegations in the report called Deepening EU-Armenia relations: More Europe in Armenia; More Armenia in Europe dated 21 March 2024, prepared by the Friends of Armenia Network, a group led by former Danish Prime Minister and NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan said, Trend reports.

"The slanderous and completely groundless provisions, with all the facts distorted, are part of the smear campaign against Azerbaijan. They raise serious questions about the report that is purported to be deepening relations between Armenia and the European Union. In fact, it is nothing but an absurd piece of propaganda.

Moreover, the launch of the report on the eve of April 5th US-EU-Armenia trilateral conference by the mentioned Armenian lobby group, which is driven by a lucrative deal struck with the Armenian government to propagate pro-Armenian narratives, is actually exposing the true intention behind the mentioned report and of the former officials co-signed this report.

Financial documents available from open sources prove that Anders Rasmussen continues to misuse his status of the former NATO Secretary General in order to promote his lobbying company RasmussenGlobal and provide dubious lobbying and influencing services. The Government of the Republic of Armenia as his client has paid hundreds of thousands USD for this rubber stamp report.

Interestingly, some of the co-authors of the report, where Azerbaijan is accused of threatening Armenias territorial integrity and sovereignty, were close witnesses of the occupation and ethnic cleansing against Azerbaijan by Armenia, a country that they so enthusiastically defend.

We are of utmost belief that the one-sided stance and complete disregard of facts not only encourages revanchist groups in Armenia to take more radical position against Azerbaijan, but also creates an illusion in the society that the West does support Armenias non-constructive stance in the peace process.

Armenian Government-funded propaganda campaigns once again demonstrate lack of sincerity of the Armenian side with regard to regional peace agenda.

Conducting expensive and futile slander campaigns through certain narrow-minded politicians, including within the European institutions such as the European Parliament and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, does not serve the regional stability and peace-building efforts. Instead, the Government of Armenia and the Armenian lobby groups must focus on promoting a genuine peace agenda in the region," the statement reads.
Waterway Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE:CNP  Free Report) in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 12,702 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $363,000.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Invesco Ltd. lifted its position in CenterPoint Energy by 68.2% in the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 7,638,179 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $234,036,000 after acquiring an additional 3,096,455 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp lifted its position in CenterPoint Energy by 10.0% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 33,279,592 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,019,687,000 after buying an additional 3,035,409 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new stake in CenterPoint Energy during the 4th quarter worth about $88,736,000. California Public Employees Retirement System lifted its position in CenterPoint Energy by 175.3% during the 3rd quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 3,618,686 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $97,162,000 after buying an additional 2,304,183 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD lifted its position in CenterPoint Energy by 42.7% during the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 6,348,720 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $187,034,000 after buying an additional 1,898,199 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 88.96% of the companys stock.

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CenterPoint Energy Price Performance

Shares of NYSE CNP traded down $0.37 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $27.23. 5,757,642 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,151,397. The company has a market cap of $17.24 billion, a PE ratio of 20.29, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.28 and a beta of 0.92. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.82, a quick ratio of 0.58 and a current ratio of 0.78. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $27.83 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $27.95. CenterPoint Energy, Inc. has a 1-year low of $25.42 and a 1-year high of $31.43.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

CenterPoint Energy ( NYSE:CNP Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 20th. The utilities provider reported $0.32 EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $0.32. The business had revenue of $2.18 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.83 billion. CenterPoint Energy had a net margin of 10.55% and a return on equity of 10.44%. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $0.28 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts predict that CenterPoint Energy, Inc. will post 1.63 EPS for the current year.

Several equities research analysts have commented on CNP shares. Evercore ISI cut shares of CenterPoint Energy from an outperform rating to an in-line rating and boosted their price target for the stock from $29.00 to $30.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 23rd. Mizuho reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $29.00 target price (down from $30.00) on shares of CenterPoint Energy in a report on Wednesday, February 21st. Guggenheim dropped their target price on shares of CenterPoint Energy from $33.00 to $32.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, February 21st. Barclays upped their target price on shares of CenterPoint Energy from $28.00 to $29.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Thursday, March 14th. Finally, KeyCorp upped their target price on shares of CenterPoint Energy from $29.00 to $31.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, January 4th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, CenterPoint Energy currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $30.73.

Read Our Latest Analysis on CNP

CenterPoint Energy Company Profile

(Free Report)

CenterPoint Energy, Inc operates as a public utility holding company in the United States. The company operates through two segments, Electric and Natural Gas. The Electric segment includes electric transmission and distribution services to electric customers and electric generation assets, as well as optimizes assets in the wholesale power market.

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Weng Xiuzhen (right) puts flowers on Yin Siqi's bun in Xunpu, Fujian Province. [China Daily]

As a child, Huang Rongbing used to watch his mother glide a wooden comb through her long, thick hair, which was as black as calligrapher's ink.

"That was the first thing she did every morning before washing her face and brushing her teeth. She usually put some hair oil on her comb, making her long hair smooth and neat. Her hair was very long, about knee length. She often pulled her hair back tight, rolled it around two fingers and formed a bun on the back of her head," recalled Huang, 34. "Then she would put colorful flowers on her head as accessories, which was very beautiful."

All the women in the small fishing village of Xunpu in Quanzhou, Fujian Province, where Huang was born and grew up, had long hair like his mother tied in a bun and adorned with flowers. The colorful and distinctive floral headdress is known as zanhua or zanhuawei.

There is an old saying in Xunpu, "put flowers in your hair in this life and you'll also be pretty in the afterlife".

The head ornament has become an inspiration and provided a career for Huang.

In 2016, he and his older sister opened a salon called Xunpu Huami where tourists could have their hair done in zanhua style and get their photos taken.

With over 100 customers a day, Huang eventually turned the salon into a cultural center, which gave women visitors the opportunity to put on the traditional clothes worn by local women to introduce them to the village's culture.

Xunpu is located about 10 kilometers southeast of the city center of Quanzhou  one of the most important ports of the ancient Maritime Silk Road, which was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2021. In the past, many oceangoing vessels anchored in Xunpu to transport silk, tea and porcelain to countries and regions around the globe, according to the Quanzhou government's official website.

Weng Xiuzhen (left) receives a foreign customer. [China Daily]

Oyster House

Huang's mother, Weng Xiuzhen, 61, whose hair has remained black and luxuriant, lives in a house made of oyster shells, an eye-catching building in the village that attracts tourists. Oyster shell houses are resistant to water penetration and woodworm damage. The villagers favor them as a building material as they are warm in winter and cool in summer.

"My mother helps out at the center," Huang said. "She still wears the traditional clothes and zanhua on her head.

"She cannot speak Mandarin and only speaks the Hokkien dialect. When the tourists thank her for doing the zanhua head decoration, she always smiles back. She is also a star of the village because many tourists take photos with her."

Most of Huang's customers are young women who travel from different parts of the country to experience the village's unique culture. When Huang's business first opened, only about 20 people visited. But things changed dramatically in 2022 thanks to celebrities who visited the village and posted photos of themselves on social media wearing the floral headdress.

Actress Zhao Liying visited Xunpu and appeared in a Chinese magazine in a red traditional dress and wearing flamboyant head ornaments. With over 90 million followers on her social media account on Sina Weibo, Zhao also appeared in a video sharing her experiences in Xunpu. Captivated by the stunning images, visitors flocked to the village.

With more than 57 million followers on his Sina Weibo platform, pop star Xue Zhiqian also put on a zanhua when he performed in Quanzhou last September.

"After Zhao and some other celebrities came to our village, more and more tourists have come here to experience the traditional culture of Xunpu, especially zanhua," Huang said. "We have been fully booked and now there are over 200 businesses offering services to dress tourists with a zanhua."

Star Attraction

Huang spoke with China Daily on March 9, the same day the village held a grand celebration and worship ceremony at Mazu Temple. During the event, which is held on the 29th day of the lunar calendar every year, participants seek blessings from Mazu  the goddess and protector of seafarers. To mark the annual occasion, village women turned out in traditional costumes that featured the floral head decorations.

Huang said the head ornaments his business offers to tourists are quite different from the zanhua that his mother's generation had worn.

In the past, women of the village rarely cut their hair. Huang said as far as he knew, his mother only cut her hair twice in her life  once when she turned 14, as part of a ceremony to mark her becoming an adult, and the other time when she got married.

"Now, when tourists come to us, we usually have to use wigs since most of the tourists' hair is not long enough to turn into a bun," he said.

To have the zanhua appear more colorful, he usually combines real flowers with artificial ones. In his mother's time, women usually wore real flowers, and used different types of flowers to distinguish married women from single ones.

Huang said the rise in tourist visits had not only made him happy from a business perspective, but also because more people were starting to learn the history and culture behind zanhua headwear.

"Earning a reputation for their hard work, resilience, and compassion, the women of Xunpu are renowned for harvesting the highest quality seafood. They deliberately adorned themselves with floral headpieces not only for beauty, but also as a symbol of happiness," said Huang.

He said his mother was like most of the hardworking women in the village. "They took care of their families, raised the children, and did as much as they could to make extra income to support their families, while their husbands caught fish in the ocean," said Huang.

"When they put a zanhua on their heads, they expressed their wish to pursue happiness. The flowers are seen as a symbol of hope," he added.

Respecting Tradition

Yin Siqi is one of Huang's customers and posts travel and food videos about the village on her social media platforms. Born and raised in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yin learned about Xunpu and its culture after moving to Quanzhou to study at university.

She paid her first visit to the small village in 2019 and met Huang. "There is a beautiful coast near the village and it's easy to find Huang's home because of the oyster shell house his family lives in, which is very noticeable," said Yin, 35, who now lives in Quanzhou after graduating and becoming a social media influencer.

One of the things that impressed Yin was the story of Huang's older sister, who married a Moroccan man and had a grand, traditional wedding in the village.

"I saw pictures of Huang's older sister's wedding. She wore very traditional clothes and a zanhua, which looked very beautiful. The couple looked very young. It was very touching that the bride respected her background and family traditions and the groom also loved the unique culture," Yin said.

In 2021, Yin donned a zanhua for the first time at Huang's salon. Huang's mother put flowers on Yin's bun, which formed a circular shape that symbolized unity, perfection, and completion.

Yin returned to the village several times and took photos of herself in traditional Xunpu dress and wearing a zanhua. One of her social media posts received over 40,000"likes" and was viewed more than 2 million times. Her photos also attracted invitations from the media for interviews as well as advertising companies to cooperate on endorsements.

"I have seen many young people come to Xunpu for zanhua. They match the head decorations with their own style, especially Chinese-style clothes such as the traditional skirt called the mamianqun, which literally means 'horse-face skirt' and is one of the favorites among younger generations," Yin added.

Modern Twist

In 2022, Hu Titi traveled from Guiyang, Guizhou province, to Quanzhou, to visit Huang's mother Weng and undergo the full zanhua experience. She learned how to comb her hair and how to use hairpins to form a stable bun in order to decorate her head with flowers.

"Besides exploring the natural landscape, old architecture, and customs and traditions of the village, I also gained in-depth knowledge about Xunpu, where tradition and modernity merge," said Hu.

Last year, she went to Paris and under the Eiffel Tower shot photos and videos of herself dressed in traditional Chinese clothes and a zanhua. She also offered passersby the opportunity to try on the headdress.

In April 2023, Huang Yimei and a fellow Quanzhou native, opened one of the first zanhua stores in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The business is located by a riverside, which is home to restaurants and coffee shops that are popular with young people.

Huang Yimei combines zanhua headwear with clothes from the Song Dynasty (960-1279) as Hangzhou served as the Southern Song capital from 1127 and 1279.

Her customers include older women, and many mothers and daughters like to have photos taken of their hair being prepared in the zanhua style.

"Customers come from 9 am to 10 pm," she said. "I didn't go back to my home in Quanzhou during Spring Festival this year because of the rising number of customers."

Zhang Wencheng, from Yong'an County, Fujian Province, has a PhD from Hong Kong Polytechnic University's School of Hotel and Tourism Management. From 2017 to 2019, he traveled to Xunpu more than 10 times to do research for his doctorate.

"The centuries-old fishing village and the people's traditional lifestyle are not fading away," Zhang said, adding that Xunpu's history dates back over 800 years.

"The local people's lifestyle is closely associated with and affected by the ocean. The women of Xunpu Village shouldered much more responsibility than the men in the families as the men were usually not at home," Zhang said.

He said he met a woman in Xunpu in 2018 who was in her 80s and whose teeth were almost all gone. She wore a bright shirt and had flowers on her head.

"She sang folk songs for me, expressing women's struggle without their husbands at home. After she finished her song, she told me that despite all the hardships, she still felt happy and full of hope."

When he returned to visit the elderly woman in 2019, she had died. Zhang compared the spirit of Xunpu women to the ocean, which is "vast, broad, generous and tolerant".

(Source: China Daily)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. Armenian government-funded misinformation tactics once again highlight the Armenian side's lack of sincerity about the regional peace agenda, the Spokesperson for Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry Aykhan Hajizada said, Trend reports.

He made the remark, commenting on the anti-Azerbaijani allegations in the report called Deepening EU-Armenia Relations: More Europe in Armenia; More Armenia in Europe," prepared by the Friends of Armenia Network, a group led by former Danish Prime Minister and NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen.

"Conducting expensive and useless defamation campaigns through certain narrow-minded politicians, especially those in European institutions such as the European Parliament and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, is detrimental to regional stability and peace-building efforts. Instead, the Armenian government and its advocacy groups must focus on pushing a true peace agenda in the region," Hajizada emphasized.

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Chen Li, an inheritor of Jiangxi opera, puts on actual opera performances in her classroom. [Xinhua]



An optional college course named "Appreciation of the Jiangxi Opera" has been taught in a packed house recently at Nanchang University in East China's Jiangxi Province due to the professor's innovative way of teaching  putting on actual opera performances in her classrooms.

Waving water sleeves, and spinning folding fans while wearing traditional makeup and costumes, Chen Li, the instructor of this course, displayed the enchanting charm of Jiangxi Opera, a several-hundred-year-old local opera, in front of the students.

Many of performers recorded the performances and posted the video clips of the class on social media platforms, receiving millions of views and likes from netizens.

Not only as a college professor, Chen is also the inheritor of Jiangxi opera, one of the national intangible cultural heritages, and holds the esteemed position as a national first-class actor and the director at the Culture and Art Center of Jiangxi Opera in Nanchang University.

The course which she teaches has been open for many years, mainly introducing the history, tunes and performance characteristics of Jiangxi Opera. It's not well known that this course, which is full of people now, was originally rarely attended.

"Before, I used to focus on the form of speech and lectures while the teaching effect was unsatisfying: the classroom was quiet and the students seemed uninterested, many even playing on their phones in class," said Chen.

To stir the enthusiasm of students, Chen decided to put on a costume and turn the class into a stage to perform. With traditional garments and brandishing water sleeves, students are immersed in the world of Jiangxi Opera.

Instead of adopting the traditional form of stage play, Chen devotes more attention to her students' interactive experience. "I invite my students to come to the stage and experience the whole process of the performance by themselves," Chen added.

"This teaching method is highly innovative and the learning experience is truly amazing," said Zhang Xizhi, a student at the School of Art at Nanchang University, who did not expect that the unpopular Jiangxi Opera could be so captivating.

Faced with the unexcepted fame, Chen was satisfied but also realized that a greater responsibility now rested on her shoulders.

"I hope that even though the popularity of the Jiangxi Opera wanes, this art can still be passed down through generations," Chen said.

(Source: chinadaily.com.cn)


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Senator Joe Lieberman poses for a portrait in Beijing on Oct. 15, 2023. Lieberman has died at 82, according to a statement from his family.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. Russia is ready to provide maximum assistance to the process of delimiting the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said during a weekly briefing, Trend reports.

"We are prepared to provide the most support possible to this work, taking into account Russia's unique cartographic resources and skills. Similar principles apply to the restoration of transport communications between Armenia and Azerbaijan. We are discussing a route that connects the western parts of Azerbaijan with Nakhchivan across the territory of Armenia's Syunik region.," she explained.

Zakharova stressed the existence of a well-established framework for reaching compromises: a trilateral working group of Russia, Azerbaijan, and Armenian deputy prime ministers.

"At its most recent meeting on June 2, 2023, the parties were close to adopting a comprehensive, mutually beneficial solution to unlock transport and economic routes in the region, and we call on partners to demonstrate political will and resume interaction in established trilateral formats, including the trilateral working group," she added.

The Zangezur Corridor, proposed by Azerbaijan, proposes to connect the country's mainland to its exclave, Nakhchivan, via Armenian territory. This corridor arose as a result of the aforementioned trilateral statement signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian, and Russian leaders following the 2020 Second Karabakh War.

One element of the agreement highlighted Armenia's commitment to ensuring the security of transport connections to Nakhchivan, permitting the unhindered movement of people, vehicles, and products in both directions.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. It's naive to believe France is ready to ensure the security of the South Caucasus, Spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said during a weekly briefing, Trend reports.

"If France had such opportunities, then this state would have applied them in those countries where Paris had contractual obligations. We have repeatedly talked about this. Moreover, it would have been convenient for them to do so, considering that they were there for decades, considering them as their colonies and even in the post-colonial period, they still preserved their interests there at the level of neocolonialism. The language is more familiar there, contacts and connections remained. Something failed," she explained.

According to Zakharova, France was obligated to do so in Africa, as it received money for it.

"Its work, its presence there was generously paid for. French missions in these countries failed miserably," she also said.

Besides, the official noted that the future of the South Caucasus is merely an instrument for Paris.

"It's just a bargaining chip, one of the ways to maintain its own prosperity and preserve its reputation, including against the backdrop of hybrid warfare with Russia and failures in Africa. France's presence in the South Caucasus region is an attempt to gather intelligence, monitor the states of the region, not allowing the peaceful agreements reached between our countries, including those of an economic nature, to materialize," Zakharova added.

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The Stellantis sign is seen outside the Chrysler Technology Center, Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021, in Auburn Hills, Mich. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

On March 22, global automaker Stellantismaker of Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, and other modelscarried out a mass firing of 400 white-collar workers in the US. The terminations are among the most recent in a global cost-cutting drive by the corporation that will be followed by further downsizing as the company ramps up electric vehicle production.

In the wake of the white-collar terminations a Stellantis spokesperson issued a cold and bureaucratic statement: As the auto industry continues to face unprecedented uncertainties and heightened competitive pressures around the world, Stellantis continues to make the appropriate structural decisions across the enterprise to improve efficiency and optimize our cost structure.

The manner Stellantis chose to go about firing the white-collar workersmost employed in engineering, tech, softwarewas brutal. Workers were informed Thursday that there would be a mandatory remote work day due to important operational meetings that require specific attention and participation. During the remote meeting held Friday the workers were told they were being laid off.

A source told CarScoops, This isnt going to be the last. They added, They are going to be doing this in waves so they can game the WARN Act. The 1988 law requires large companies to give at least 60-day notice of a layoff of 500 employees or more within a 30-day period.

The layoffs are the third round of white-collar job cuts this year. In 2023 Stellantis offered buyouts to 9,000 US salaried workers.

The latest white-collar job cuts have been followed by reports that Stellantis has come to a deal with unions in Italy to cut at least 2,500 jobs. The layoffs are reported as being voluntary, including retirement incentives, and will impact 1,520 workers in Turin and 950 at two other locations. The cuts are part of an ongoing downsizing in the country, with Stellantis slashing some 12,000 jobs in Italy since 2021.

In a statement, Stellantis said about the layoffs in Italy, The agreements are part of the initiatives implemented by Stellantis to address the effects of the ongoing energy and technology transition process including on employment.

Throughout 2024, Stellantis has been carrying out mass terminations of temporary workers at US production facilities. The workers had been promised under terms of the supposedly historic 2023 national contract with the United Auto Workers union that those with nine months or more would be made full-time. Instead, many found themselves out of work.

These cuts all come while the company posts record profits. The company made $20 billion last year, an 11 percent increase over 2022, despite a 1 percent decline in overall sales.

Anger is mounting among rank-and-file workers, particularly as the union apparatuses have refused to mount any serious opposition to the layoffs. Last month Italian autoworkers staged wildcat strikes over threats by Stellantis to close the Mirafiori and Pomigliano dArco plants. In Detroit earlier this month a group of fired Stellantis temporary workers (known at the company as supplemental employees) staged a protest outside of the UAW headquarters in Detroit against their terminations.

In response to the Stellantis layoffs one worker posted acerbically on thelayoff.com, Who cares if hundreds of loyal and hard-working employees lose their livelihoods when there are executives with multi-million dollar pay who need to ensure their bonuses keep growing? Their priorities are perfectly clear. Scw the employees. Were insignificant.

A worker at the Stellantis Toledo Jeep plant posted on Facebook, Its all across the world. Its just a poor me excuse for these companies to get kickbacks. Theyve had record profits for almost a decade but yet didnt have money to make this transition. Its a load of BS. Theyre going towards AI tech and thats why theyre getting rid of white-collar jobs.

Other workers commenting on Facebook spoke about the impact of the cuts. They have done this several times including when my dad worked in the industry, wrote one worker. Typically it starts with lower white collar and then works its way up on white collar jobs because it isnt as bad news coverage. Then it hits the blue collar. They will drag it out as long as they can.

Another exclaimed, Wow this is a pretty s***ty thing to do. Ive been laid off before, right after a company-wide mandatory in-person meeting where they announced that everyones job was safe.

During an investor call last month Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares spelled out the global economic and technological processes driving the cutsparticularly what the company views as the main threatcompetition from China.

The Chinese offensive is possibly the biggest risk that companies like Tesla and ourselves are facing right now, he said. We have to work very, very hard to make sure that we bring our consumers better offerings than the Chinese.

Stellantis has been slower than other carmakers in the transition to EVs. It plans to introduce its first fully electric vehicle in the US this year and spend $50 billion by 2030 on the EV transition. By that year it plans to sell 50 percent EVs in the US and 100 percent in Europe.

Workers at the Stellantis Mirafiori plant on a wildcat strike, February 8, 2024. [Photo: Officine Maserati Grugliasco Fiom ]

Chinese automaker BYD is currently selling its Seagull electric vehicle in China for the US equivalent of $10,000, breaking even or even turning a profit by some reports. The company has had success developing battery technologies that are cheaper to make than lithium-ion batteries, which are also prone to fires.

The average price of a US-built EV is over $50,000, according to Cox Automotive, and the sector remains unprofitable for Stellantis and other Detroit-based carmakers. US-built EVs have been plagued by quality problems, including a rash of battery fires. One blaze involving warehoused lithium-ion batteries forced the temporary shutdown of General Motors flagship Factory Zero in Detroit.

Under capitalist private ownership, developments in science, such as AI and EV technologies, are turned against the worker. Instead of a global effort of research and development aimed at the rational use and deployment of electric vehicle technology for the benefits of society, workers are being pitted in a fratricidal race against each other to see who can work the cheapest and whose jobs will be eliminated.

With fewer moving parts than gas-powered vehicles, electric vehicles require less labor to manufacture and assemble and thus fewer engineers and design specialists. At the same time, the enormous costs associated with the development of this technology require that auto companies such as Stellantis squeeze ever more profit and production out of its existing workforce.

The corporatist unions, both in the US and in Europe, have offered no opposition to the stepped-up attacks on workers jobs and living standards. In Italy, the unions have helped Stellantis lobby fascist Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for subsidies while collaborating with management to slash costs. In the US, the UAW bureaucracy offered no opposition to the layoff of some 2,000 supplemental workers. Meanwhile, President Shawn Fain and the UAW executive board have embraced the reelection campaign of Joe Biden, who just helped ram through a budget that combines record military funding with cuts to social spending.

The rational and progressive use of labor-saving technologies such as AI and EVs would entail the reduction of the workweek and workday with no loss in pay, and the hiring of more workers to address reduce workloads and understaffing and improve safety. But such policies are incompatible with the profit system, which subordinates everything to the accumulation of private wealth. What is required are organizational structures under workers democratic controlrank-and-file committeesand the adoption of a socialist and international strategy to ensure the needs of the working class are met.
Protests continue across Canada in opposition to Israels imperialist-backed genocide against the Palestinians in Gaza. Demonstrators are demanding a ceasefire and that the trade union-backed Liberal Trudeau government ends its support for Israels onslaught on defenceless civilians.

Fearing the growth of popular opposition to its policies of war abroad and attacks on social programs at home, the political establishment has escalated its campaign to squash opposition by declaring demonstrations to be antisemitic. These unfounded accusations are intended to intimidate those who have been consistently turning out to protest since October and to silence mass popular anger.

A portion of the ant-genocide protest in Toronto on March 24

On Sunday, March 24, several hundred protesters rallied in midtown Toronto at the intersection of Yonge Street and St. Clair to shut it down for Palestine. Co-sponsored by Jews Say No to Genocide and the Palestinian Youth Movement among others, the peaceful demonstration advertised as family friendly was menaced by police officers on horseback and others carrying less lethal bean bag guns.

One of the participants in the protest, Rae, told the World Socialist Web Site that she opposed the effort to use claims of antisemitism to shut down protests against the Gaza genocide: As a Canadian Jew, I am disgusted that I am expected to prioritize my own perception of safety over the actual reality of whats happening to Gaza, to the Palestinians. Its disgusting. Never again means for everyone.

Despite its co-sponsorship by a Jewish organization, the protest was smeared as antisemitic for supposedly targeting a Jewish neighborhood and due to an advertisement encouraging participants to bring noisemakers to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Purim.

MP Melissa Lantsman, the deputy for far-right Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre, was the most vitriolic in her attack, tweeting on Saturday: Looking forward to seeing politicians denounce a family friendly march to harass Jews in a predominately Jewish neighbourhood on a Jewish holiday To those who dont see this as antisemitic, you are the problem.

Earlier this month, Lantsman proudly sported Israel Defence Forces dog tags while rejecting a parliamentary resolution presented by the New Democratic Party (NDP) calling for the recognition of a Palestinian state.

Last week, the Liberal mayor of the Toronto suburb of Vaughn, Steven Del Duca, proposed banning protests within 100 meters of places of worship, schools, child-care centres and hospitals. Anyone who violates the proposed bylaw would face a $100,000 fine.

What we are witnessing represents a wake-up call, Del Duca told reporters at a press conference, citing purported antisemitic graffiti as well as threats against an Islamic community centre. A wake-up call that requires a call to action to protect vulnerable social infrastructure here in our community and to protect the individual residents who use that infrastructure.

The proposal follows protests last month outside a synagogue which was hosting a real estate event selling settlement property in the occupied West Bank restricted to Jews. A 27-year-old man was arrested on hate motivated charges on March 2 after he fired a nail gun at pro-Palestinian demonstrators. Three people were arrested on March 7, including a 32-year-old man who kicked a woman with the group ELDV4Palestine (Eglinton-Lawrence + Don Valley 4 Palestine) who was working as a protest marshal.

Del Duca joined hands with Lantsman and other Conservative politicians to issue a joint letter ahead of the March 7 event, declaring it unacceptable that a place of worship be subject to protests. Needless to say, they did not say it was unacceptable for the synagogue to host an event selling occupied land in violation of international law.

Noa Mendelsohn Aviv, executive director and general counsel of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, told CBC News that Del Ducas proposed protest ban would go too far in restricting lawful, constitutionally protected expression, peaceful assembly and protest rights.

Aviv explained, The kind of restriction that were seeing in this [policy] is going too far in clamping down on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly rights. It doesnt mean that police shouldnt be protecting religious institutions that have been targeted from criminal activitiesthey can and they should.

A pro-Palestinian march in February was broadly denounced as antisemitic, including by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, after it passed by Mount Sinai Hospital, an institution founded by Jewish immigrants. Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, infamous for her efforts to cover up her grandfathers background as a Ukrainian Nazi collaborator, professed shock at the purported act of antisemitism. They were joined by NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, who declared the hospital was targeted because of its ties to the Jewish community in Toronto. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow claimed the protest was unacceptable, and an expression of hate and antisemitism.

The NDP helped unleash the campaign against opponents of the genocide by witch-hunting Ontario MPP Sarah Jama in October. Jama was kicked out of the NDPs legislative caucus, which emboldened the Tory-controlled legislature to censure her, after she declared her support for the Palestinians and denounced Israels apartheid regime. Israel has been described as an apartheid state by the United Nations and numerous international aid organizations.

Meanwhile, charges continued to be pursued against a group known as the Peace 11, who were arrested in police raids on their homes in November over their alleged involvement in affixing red paint and posters to an Indigo bookstore in protest at the CEOs financial support for the IDF. The group, which includes York University professor Lesly Wood, who is Jewish and a supporter of Jews Say No to Genocide, have been smeared in the media as antisemitic, as Indigo CEO Heather Reisman is also Jewish. The Socialist Equality Party (Canada) has demanded the dropping of all charges against the 11.

The non-binding resolution passed in parliament by the Liberals and NDP, presented initially as a demand for a ceasefire in Gaza and recognition of a Palestinian state, ended up as an endorsement of the genocide being carried out by the far-right Zionist Israeli regime with the backing of imperialism. The NDP agreed to multiple last minute rewrites to gut the resolution of its original language, which had been intended to confine mounting popular anger to the genocide within official bourgeois politics.

The episode thoroughly exposed the NDP, which secures a parliamentary majority for the pro-war, pro-austerity Trudeau liberal government, as accomplices in the genocide. The Liberal government has made clear that a purported ban on military aid to Israel in the resolution will not stop the transfer of arms and other equipment.

The continued support of the Liberal-NDP-union alliance for the genocide in Israel and the cross-party effort to suppress opposition by deploying false claims of antisemitism makes clear that the perspective of pressuring these parties to change course is a dead end. All those opposed to genocide in Gaza must turn to the international working class, the only social force capable of putting an end to war and genocide. The fight against imperialist war must be aimed at its root cause, the capitalist system, by taking up the fight for socialism.
Film director Hossam Sarhan has made an important documentary, Stern: The Man, The Gang & The State, delving into the little-known subject of the Stern Gang.

The film, shown recently in Sheffield where it got a very warm response, was hosted by the Sheffield Palestine Cultural Exchange and Sheffield Jews Against Israeli Apartheid. It is available on Al Jazeera Documentary, and deserves a wide audience among workers and young people.

Publicity poster for Stern: The Man, the Gang, and the State [Photo: med tillatelse av Hossam Sarhan]

Sarhans previous work includes The Exiles (2021), about five young Egyptian activists from different backgrounds and political ideologies who met in Tahrir Square during the mass uprising against Hosni Mubaraks dictatorship in 2011. Living in exile since Abdel Fattah el-Sisi seized power in a military coup in July 2013, they came together again a decade later to talk about the revolution, why they thought the revolution had failed and the impact on their lives.

The Stern Gang, founded by Avraham Stern in 1939, was one of the Zionist terrorist gangs responsible for a wave of murderous attacks on both Palestinians and British officials in Mandate Palestine and the Middle East before the establishment of the State of Israel. Attacks led to the flight of more than 700,000 Palestinians from their homes in 1948 in what became known as the Nakba, or Catastrophe.

Under conditions where the fascistic government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to inflict a second Nakba on the Palestinians, it is vital that filmmakers and artists do not remain silent but use their films to bring out the historical record. This is what Sarhan seeks to do with his latest film.

To its credit, the film is not limited to the description and archival documentation of the terrible acts of violence, but explains the ideology underpinning them, using interviews with Sterns son Yair and supporters of the Stern Gang along with commentary to explain Sterns outlook and activities. Completed just before the start of Israels long-planned war, it starts with a lengthy interview with Yair in his home in Jerusalem. Yair outlines his fathers ideology and makes clear that he agrees with his father 100 percent. That he feels free to do so speaks volumes for the prevalence of the far right in Israel today.

Avraham Stern in 1942 [Photo by Regjeringens pressekontor/Flickr: 01/09/1942. / CC BY-SA 3.0

Stern subscribed to Vladimir Jabotinskys far right Revisionist Zionist movement that openly stated, in opposition to the mainstream political Zionist movement, that the establishment of a Zionist state in Palestine was impossible without the forcible transfer of the indigenous population. The Zionist state could only be established in blood and fire. With the Jews a minority in Palestine, such a state would necessarily mean expelling the Arab population to ensure its Jewish character.

Stern saw the Palestinians as alien forces that had no right to Palestine which belonged only to the Jews. In 1929, at the age of 22, he joined the Zionists paramilitary organisation, the Hagana, to protect the Jews against the Palestinians but soon left because, he said, they didnt do much. He then joined the Irgun, the military wing of Jabotinskys Revisionist movement, that considered the British as much the enemy as the Palestinians. The Revisionists argued that armed struggle against the British was the only way to secure a Jewish state in Mandate Palestine and the East Bank of the River Jordan, todays Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

As the film explains, while Stern, who had studied in Italy and was an admirer of Mussolini, understood the antisemitic character of the Nazis, he sought to build an anti-British alliance with the fascist powers with whose nationalist ideology he had much in common, as did many of the Zionists. Furthermore, he wanted the Jews forced out of Germany and Italy, including by military means, so that they would emigrate to Palestine. To this end, he made extensive efforts to establish links with the Nazis and the Italian Fascists on the basis that My enemies enemies are my friends, mirroring some of the Arab nationalists in Palestine, Egypt and Iraq who allied themselves with Germany to rid themselves of British imperialism. This policy led to a virtual civil war between the various wings of the Zionist movement during World War II.

In 1939, when war broke out between Britain and Germany, Stern, by then one of the Irgun leaders, rejected any support for the British against Germany. He argued that the British were the main enemy. There was no difference between the Nazi-fascist states and the Western democracies, between communists and social democrats, between Hitler and Chamberlain. When he failed to persuade the majority of the Irgun, who viewed him as a quisling and a traitor, he broke with the Revisionist movement. His faction became known as the Stern Group, or Lehi.

Ze'ev Jabotinsky (bottom right) meeting with Betar leaders in Warsaw. Bottom left Menachem Begin (Image probably taken in 1939).

While both the mainstream Zionists and the Revisionists supported the British against Germany and joined the British armed forces in World War II, the Stern Group went on to carry out armed robberies to finance its activities and terrorist attacks against the British, the Arabs and Jews that it claimed were collaborating with them. Its violence killed and injured many unwitting bystanders and caused widespread anger in Palestine. The British, who thought his death would lead to the Groups demise, shot and killed Stern in February 1942 and imprisoned his immediate coterie, including Yitzhak Shamir, the future prime minister.

Sterns son repudiated the British police claim he had sought to escape their clutches, citing Sterns last letter on the morning of his death in which he vowed to fight to the finish, and gloated that it did not end the Gangs activities.

A screenshots from the film Stern: The Man, The Gang & The State, [Photo: med tillatelse av Hossam Sarhan]

As Professor Ilan Pappe, author of several books about Israels history, its ethnic cleansing of Palestine and treatment of its Palestinian citizens, explained, Stern viewed himself as engaged in an anti-imperialist struggle, akin to those in Britains empire in Africa and India. But the activities of the Stern Gang, targeted against the Palestinians, whom it claimed had taken over the land that belonged to the Jews and were part of the British empire, were those of a right-wing movement with nothing in common with a revolutionary struggle to overthrow imperialism in the region.

The Irgun and the Stern Gang waged a pogrom on the Palestinians, attacking towns and villages and killing several thousand in a roughly 30-year period up to 1948. This intensified after the United Nations General Assembly vote in November 1947 to partition Palestine and create two, separate Jewish and Palestinian mini states. Their most infamous terrorist actalthough neither the only nor the worstwas the attack on the Palestinian village of Deir Yassin on the outskirts of Jerusalem in April 1948, where theyalong with the Hagana, the forerunner of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF)massacred between 117 and 250 men, women and children, going from house to house to drive out Palestinians.

The film provides a timely reminder that Zionists of all political colours, including the mainstream Zionist paramilitary organisation, the Hagana, used terrorist methods to achieve statehood.

David Ben-Gurion, Israels first prime minister, publicly at least, sought to disassociate the Labour Party-dominated Zionist mainstream from terrorism and absolve the Hagana of any responsibility for the massacre at Deir Yassin, laying the blame entirely on the Irgun and Stern Gang. He even apologised to Transjordans ruler, who was sympathetic to the Zionists, for the extremists in our own army. His successors today have no such qualms as they give the far-right settlers the green light to carry out pogroms against the Palestinians in the West Bank.

Deir Yassin was a watershed moment and one of the most important factors in driving more than 700,000 Palestinians from their homes in the 1948 Nakba. Sterns son acknowledged the brutality of Deir Yassin but justified it, saying the context was war.

The massacre took place weeks before the outbreak of the Arab Israeli war on May 15, 1948. Pappe explains how Israeli archival documents show that, contrary to the official story put out by Israel, the Zionists had already driven outvia a mixture of expulsions, rumour and bombardment391,000 Palestinians before the war had even started. The purpose of the war was to continue the ethnic cleansing already begun. While Israel claimed that the Arab armies invaded to drive out the Jews, their actual purpose was to stop the ethnic cleansing.

Israeli military forces receiving a briefing at Deir Yassin [Photo: Beit Gidi Exhibits]

The Stern Group/Lehi assassinated Lord Moyne, Britains Minister Resident in the Middle East, and led many other attacks on the British in Palestine. But its most notorious assassination in September 1948 was that of the UN mediator Count Folke Bernadotte, whom the Stern Group believed favoured the Palestinians at the expense of the new Jewish state. The assassination was ordered and planned by future prime minister Shamir. While the Group was declared a terrorist organisation days later, and most of its leaders were arrested and imprisoned, Shamir escaped in time to avoid arrest. A general amnesty was soon declared, and its members integrated into the IDF. Their crimes were whitewashed by the state and, some 30 years later, Yair received from the Ministry of Defence a medal for his fathers services to the state.

While the Stern Gang was disbanded after 1948, the film draws out how its racialist and xenophobic-nationalist ideology now constitutes the official policy of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government of militarists, ultra-nationalists and religious bigotsall crawling out of the woodwork of Israels crisis-ridden capitalist societysupported by the imperialist governments in Washington, London, Paris and Berlin that have armed Israels genocide in Gaza and backed it politically and diplomatically.

Today, the ruling cabal has the legitimacy of the nation state and use of all its powers to carry out their policies of apartheid, ethnic cleaning and the final solution of the Palestinian question.

Netanyahu and company are Sterns political heirs in every sense of the word. The forerunner of Netanyahus Likud party and his far-right coalition partners are the political descendants of the Herut Party that was formed by the Irgun, led by Menahem Begin, and the Stern Gang/Lehi, led by Avraham Stern and, after his death, Yitzhak Shamir. Decades later, Begin, like Shamir, became prime minister of Israel.

Like the Stern Gang, Netanyahu has embraced some of the worlds most far-right and antisemitic politicians. These included US President Donald Trump, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, ruler of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

As Sarhan explained to this reviewer, Israel/Palestine: its a complicated issue, thats why you have to ask political questions.

Hossam Sarhan [Photo: med tillatelse fra Hossam Sarhan]

He had been surprised by Yairs open support for his fathers activities and ideology. It seemed, Sarhan thought, that We can say anything because we won, which was why he gave him so much space in the film.

Sarhan commented, What happened before and led up to October 7 was a continuation of the events of the 1948 Nakba. He explained, The Palestinians have been caught up in a struggle against colonialism, imperialism, so that we are talking about class, the class interests of the capitalist classoil and financeand opposition from the working class. The Palestinian question is a supra-national question.

As a supra-national question, Palestinian liberation demands a political perspective that corresponds with the struggle against oppression, war and its cause, the capitalist system. It requires an international socialist strategy, uniting Israeli and Palestinian workers and youth with their brothers and sisters throughout the region against capitalist exploitation and imperialist oppression, for the United Socialist States of the Middle East, as part of a struggle for world socialist revolution.
Official campaigning for South Koreas April 10 general election begins tomorrow as candidates compete for the 300 seats in the countrys unicameral National Assembly. Candidates in the quadrennial contest will contend for 254 direct-election seats and 46 seats allocated by proportional representation. None of the parties or candidates competing in the election represents a genuine, progressive choice for workers and youth.

South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol cheers during a ceremony of the 105th anniversary of the March 1st Independence Movement Day in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, March 1, 2024. [AP Photo/Kim Hong-Ji]

Candidate registration took place last week with 951 potential lawmakers registering and 21 parties competing in the direct-election races. President Yoon Suk-yeols right-wing ruling People Power Party (PPP) and the so-called liberal opposition Democratic Party (DP) currently dominate the legislature with the latter holding a majority. Additionally, 38 parties are running for proportional representation seats.

Neither the DP or PPP are officially running for proportionally allocated seats. Under the election law passed prior to the 2020 general election, supposedly meant to help minor parties secure more seats, parties winning larger numbers of directly elected seats earn fewer proportionally allocated seats. As a result, the DP and PPP have set up satellite parties to run as their proxies, fully intending to integrate them into the main party after the election.

In other cases, politicians from the main parties, who found themselves excluded from positions of influence by rivals, have also set up minor parties in order to use any seats they gain as leverage in their disputes or to scoop up disaffected voters and direct them back behind the establishment camps. A significant amount of horse-trading behind the scenes has therefore already taken place or will take place following the election.

Neither of the two main parties has a clear advantage in opinion polls, although the Democrats appear to have a slight edge. In a survey published by Yonhap News Agency on March 21, the DP led the PPP by 49 percent to 44 percent. The same poll found President Yoons approval rating was only 36 percent, which could affect his partys performance.

The limited election campaigning that has taken place so far has been marked by various empty populist pledges. The election has also been cast as a choice between DP leader Lee Jae-myung, who has been embroiled in a number of politically-motivated corruption scandals, and President Yoon, even though the latter is not running for re-election. South Korean presidents are chosen in separate elections for single, five-year terms.

Neither the Democrats nor the PPP has put forward any serious measures to address the needs of the working class. Instead, the various handouts that have been proposed and other vague promises, such as improving childcare to raise the countrys low birthrate, will quickly be junked as soon as the election is over. Neither party has seriously addressed growing social inequality or the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has been entirely ignored even as it continues to rip through the population.

Regarding inequality, a March 24 report from Chaebul.com, which analyzes South Koreas massive family-owned conglomerates, found that top executives at these companies, on average, were paid 1.09 billion won ($US813,000) last year. In contrast, the average yearly salary across the entire population as of 2022 was only 40.2 million won ($US29,970), according to the National Tax Service. Furthermore, the largest chaebol, Hyundai Motors, last year took in a record profit of 15.1 trillion won ($US11.3 billion), a 54 percent increase from the previous year.

Nor have any parties addressed the danger of a United States-instigated war with China. Yoon and the PPP have openly lined up behind the US war drive. Last year, Yoon agreed to a de facto trilateral military alliance with the US and Japan while also expanding Seouls involvement in the planning for the use of Washingtons nuclear weapons. He has also overseen a number of massive war games and military exercises alongside the US and Japan, provocatively held on Chinas doorstep. This has also drastically raised tensions on the Korean Peninsula, a significant flashpoint in the region.

The DP falsely postures as an anti-war party. Since Yoon, living costs have skyrocketed, the risk of a war on the Korean Peninsula has escalated, and South Korean democracy is under attack, Lee Jae-myung claimed at a meeting of Democratic Party leaders on March 11. All that is going to change when we claim victory on April 10.

In reality, the DP has consciously ignored Washingtons growing threats towards China by pledging to step up diplomacy with the US, Japan, China, and Russia over North Korea. In reality, the Democrats are limiting any anti-war measures to those approved by Washington, which has no intention of pulling back from a conflict with Beijing. At the same time, in an acknowledgement of the war preparations taking place, the DP has pledged to rapidly acquire new weapon systems.

No-one should take Lee or the Democrats seriously. The DP already holds a majority in the National Assembly, a result of its 2020 general election victory. The party did nothing for workers when it controlled the legislature and the presidency while Democrat Moon Jae-in held power between 2017 and 2022.

In fact, the Moon government carried out multiple attacks on workers, imposing wage freezes in the auto industry, the expansion of unstable and underpaid irregular jobs to record levels, and overseeing mass job cuts, particularly under the cover of the COVID-19 pandemic. On top of this, Moon expanded the military alliance with the US, which included the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery to South Korea, which is directed at China.

Providing cover for the Democrats, as always, is the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), which masquerades as a militant workers organization. Branches of the KCTU have held rallies in recent days to supposedly denounce pro-chaebol and pro-capitalist policies of the government. This is a fraud. The KCTU, while not officially backing the DP, supports the party by claiming that it is necessary to limit Yoons power, implying this would occur with a Democrat-led National Assembly.

During a rally in front of the National Assembly in Seoul on March 21, for example, Eom Mi-gyeong, vice-chairwoman of the KCTU, denounced Yoon, saying, President Yoon Suk-yeol has been actively conducting a general election tour rather than maintaining political neutrality. At the same time, he is deceiving the public by overstating policies that he cannot keep. As this happens, the public cannot but raise their voices to judge the Yoon administration.

What this means, according to the KCTU leader, is that workers and youth should vote for the Democrats while all of the problems the working class confronts are placed at the feet of Yoon and the PPP. She was of course silent on the broken promises of the Democrats. In reality, the crisis workers face is the result of the entire capitalist system.
The British government has levelled new sanctions against China, accusing it of organising a malicious cyber campaign against MPs and the Electoral Commission election watchdog.

Coordinated with the United States, Rishi Sunak's Conservative government is signalling an intensification of its anti-China campaign, which has reversed previous efforts to tamp down the conflict. This had been the policy of the 2010-15 Conservative administration, led by David Cameron, who is now foreign secretary in Sunaks crisis-ridden government.

On Monday, Washington and London announced sanctions on two individuals and one company linked to APT31, a China state-affiliated group. Stating that cyber-attacks had endangered national security, London said that the Electoral Commission system had been accessible to Chinese assets. The commission holds the details of 40 million voters, including names and address of anyone in the UK registered to vote between 2014 and 2022, as well as the names of those registered as overseas voters.

Foreign Secretary David Cameron speaking at the weekly Cabinet Meeting, March 26, 2024 [Photo by Simon Walker/No 10 Downing Street / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

A press release from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, National Cyber Security Centre, Cabinet Office and Home Office alleged a pattern of malicious cyber activity by Chinese state-affiliated organisations and individuals targeting democratic institutions and parliamentarians.

It stated that the UK can reveal today that the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)a part of GCHQ [the UKs spy centre]assesses that the UK Electoral Commission systems were highly likely compromised by a Chinese state-affiliated entity between 2021 and 2022.

It added that the NCSC assesses it is almost certain that the China state-affiliated Advanced Persistent Threat Group 31 (APT31) conducted reconnaissance activity against UK parliamentarians during a separate campaign in 2021. The majority of those targeted were prominent in calling out the malign activity of China.

Targeted for sanctions were the Wuhan Xiaoruizhi Science and Technology Company Limited, which is associated with APT31, operating on behalf of the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) as part of Chinas state-sponsored apparatus; and Zhao Guangzong and Ni Gaobin, both accused of operating on behalf of the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS).

Before announcing the sanctions in Parliament Monday afternoon, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden told the media that China represents the greatest state-based threat to Britain. He told MPs, We will not hesitate to take swift and robust actions wherever the Chinese government threatens the United Kingdoms interests The UK judges that these actions demonstrate a clear and persistent pattern of behaviour that signals hostile intent from China.

The same day, four members of the anti-Chinese Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on Chinaformer Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith, former Minister Tim Loughton, Scottish National Party former defence spokesman Stewart McDonald, and crossbench peer David Altonwere told by parliaments director of security, Alison Giles, about alleged Chinese moves to hack their electronic devices. This was despite the governments own press release stating that No parliamentary accounts were successfully compromised.

After this the MPs held a press conference. Duncan Smith has long demanded a harsher policy against China, including that it be officially declared a threat to the UKs national interests, rather than its current designation as a challenge.

This was accompanied by hysterical press coverage. The Telegraph front-page Monday was headlined China and Russia spreading slurs against Princess of Wales. It claimed that Princess Catherine, who has been diagnosed with treatable cancer, was the subject of a disinformation campaign designed to destabilise the nation. A government source stated, Part of the modus operandi of hostile states is to destabilise thingswhether that is undermining the legitimacy of our elections or other institutions.

Five national newspapers led their front pages Tuesday with the anti-China message and three of themthe Telegraph, the Times and Maildemanded the government go much further against China.

The Mail complained, Sanctions against two key players and a Chinese company over the cyber espionage are derisory, insisting that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak must now be willing to label China a threat to our security and prosperity. He can no longer appease the bullies of Beijing.

On Wednesday, the Independent produced a long read piece by journalist Jonathan Margolis, headlined, How China stole the West (and we happily gave it away).

The article claimed, The Chinese Communist Party considers dominating the world as a work in progress but many believe its largely a done deal.

China, Margolis wrote, had exploited a Britain that was still (amazingly) the ninth-largest industrial producer, but whose population was increasingly drunk, drugged, work-shy, indecisive, falling apart and distracted by silly triviaculture wars over gender, Brexit, royals, pronouns, woke-ism and the rest of our arguably self-inflicted wounds.

The reorientation of Britains policy to directly confront China economically and militarily is being demanded by Washington as its own world position worsens against its main competitor.

It is a reorientation that extracts a massive price from British imperialism, China accounting for 93.0 billion (7.3 percent) of the UKs total trade in 2021. The new sanctions and frothing demands that China be rebranded as a threat take place amid plans by Chinese manufacturer EVE Energy to invest an initial 1.2 billion to create the UKs largest gigafactory battery plant on the outskirts of Coventry, England. At least 6,000 jobs, and thousands more in the supply chain, are on the line if China pulls out.

The Financial Times citing government insiders noted, Kemi Badenoch, the business secretary, was pushing to ensure that any new regime was designed with business and trade implications in mind to avoid unduly damaging trading relations with China and investment in the UK by Chinese companies

Last week, Britain and the Australian Labor government ramped up their military alliance against China as part of the trilateral AUKUS pact with the US. On March 21, Australian Minister for Defence Richard Marles and UK counterpart Grant Shapps signed the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) committing them to respond jointly if threatened militarily.

As noted by the World Socialist Web Site, the ministers directly linked the escalating conflict with China with the US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine. In the opening words of their joint declaration, they proclaimed that the security and prosperity of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific were inseparable.

The UK-Australia declaration was accompanied by an AUKUS trilateral statement that reaffirmed a plan for the joint production of nuclear-powered long-range attack submarines designed for use against China.

The fact that Cameron is now part of a government on the verge of declaring China a threat exemplifies growing tensions between the major powers. Despite Britains diminished role on the world stage since the loss of empire, it remains a nuclear armed power, which is backing every move of US imperialism in NATOs war against Russia and Israels genocide in Gaza.

It was less than a decade ago that Cameron as prime minister rolled out the red carpet for President Xi during his 2015 state visit to Britain, where he was hosted by the queen. This was after Britain became a founding member of Beijings Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, hoping to position itself as a key player in Chinas access to European markets.

The growing conflict between the US and China over control of global markets and trade has destroyed this strategy, with Britains departure from the European Union in 2016, led by the most right-wing sections of the Tory Party, necessitating even more slavish support for US imperialism.

In 2021, the UKs Ministry of Defence published its Integrated Review of foreign and defence policy and a further strategy document, Defence in a Competitive Age, directly targeting Russia and China. This was followed by a major provocation against Beijing in the South China Sea in September 2021 when HMS Richmond, a Type 23 frigate warship deployed with an aircraft carrier strike group, sailed through the Taiwan Straitthe first time a UK frigate had done so in more than a decade.

The allegations that China is involved in spying on the UK and its elected representativesparticularly those known as being hostile for Beijingis the height of hypocrisy. Every major power is involved in spying on its rivals. Britain operates one of the most extensive intelligence agencies on the globe, with tens of millions of people nationwide routinely monitored electronically by GCHQ, as proven by Edward Snowdens revelations.

The spying allegations are simply the latest manifestation of Londons anti-Beijing offensive. It was only a few months ago that the main thrust of the attack centred on the use of the Muslim Uyghur minority in Chinas Xinjiang province as slave labour in auto manufacture.
The Montreal daily La Presse withdrew a cartoon depicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a vampire last Wednesday, just hours after its publication. This act of self-censorship was prompted by unfounded and thoroughly contrived accusations of antisemitism, first advanced by the pro-Israeli far right, that were then taken up by the entire political establishment.

Responding to the accusations, La Presse Editor-in-Chief Stephanie Grammond issued a public apology. She stated, however, that the newspaper had never...intended to convey anti-Semitic remarks, that the drawing was intended as a criticism of Mr. Netanyahus policies and was aimed at the Israeli government, not the Jewish people.

The unanimous establishment condemnation of the La Presse cartoon and its subsequent withdrawal are part of a concerted campaign by ruling classes around the world to denounce any form of opposition to Israels imperialist-backed genocide against the Palestinians of Gaza as antisemitism.

The cartoon removed by La Presse. The caption reads: Nosfenyahou, on his way to Rafah [Photo: La Presse]

The cartoon was created by cartoonist Serge Chapleau, who reused an image from the silent, German Expressionist film Nosferatu, A Symphony of Horror .

The image shows the main character, the vampire named Count Orlock, standing on a ship. His posture is imposing and menacing. Netanyahus face is superimposed on that of the vampire, and drawn in a typically cartoonish style, without being crude. The caption Nosfenyahou, on his way to Rafah appears in a red bloody font, the only color in the otherwise black-and-white cartoon.

The image used in the cartoon is taken from a pivotal scene in Nosferatu, in which Count Orlock travels by ship from Transylvania to the fictional town of Wisborg, bringing death with him. Count Orlock kills the crew of the ship which carries him and his coffins. He decimates the population of Wisborg as if an epidemic had taken hold of the once peaceful town. The devastation Count Orlock leaves in his wake is reminiscent of the devastation of war.

Still from film used by Chapleau [Photo: Nosferatu]

Chapleaus cartoon is clearly a denunciation of the Israeli Prime Minister, who is preparing to bring mass death to Rafah, the Gaza enclaves southernmost city. Over 1.4 million Palestinians, many of whom have had to flee for their lives multiple times since the onslaught began, are now packed into Rafah. The cartoon was published against a backdrop of popular outrage at the scenes of slaughter in Gaza and repeated declarations from Netanyahu and other senior Israeli officials that an invasion of Rafah is imminent. Two days prior to the cartoons publication, the social-democratic NDP presented a motion in the House of Commons purporting to call for the recognition of a Palestinian state.

The NDP motion was introduced to contain within the framework of bourgeois politics the opposition to the imperialist-backed genocide, which has found expression in weekly protests across the country involving tens of thousands. Despite the motions transformation, with the NDPs approval, into a declaration of support for the Israeli genocide against the Palestinians, it was unanimously opposed by the Conservative official opposition. Moreover, it sparked consternation among broad sections of the ruling elite, who recognize that public support for Canadian imperialisms full-throated backing for the suppression and dispossession of the Palestinian people is crumbling, and fear that the debate over the NDP motion, however innocuous, could inadvertently fuel popular opposition.

The contrived controversy surrounding the Netanyahu cartoon was both an attempt to change the subject and a signal from the ruling class that it is ready to resort to authoritarian methods to impose a policy of imperialist aggression that is hated by large sections of the working class and youth.

Israels genocidal assault, which has been militarily and politically supported by Washington, Ottawa and the European imperialist powers, has already claimed the lives of over 32,000 Palestinians, the vast majority of them women and children; displaced nearly 2 million; and imposed starvation on almost the entire population of Gaza. It arouses indignation and anger among the majority of the international working class. Rarely, however, does this vast opposition find a reflection, however tame, in the official bourgeois press.

La Presses publication of the cartoon clearly exceeded the bounds of officially tolerated criticism. Expressing any disgust at the massacre taking place in the Middle East immediately exposes an artist or writer to the accusation of antisemitism. Indeed, Israel and its Western allies are waging a campaign to malign the reputation of anyone who dares criticize their murderous and inhumane policies, by accusing them of antisemitism.

Many artists have faced fraudulent accusations of antisemitism, including the socially-conscious musician Roger Waters. Cartoons by artist Dwayne Booth in the US, who teaches at the University of Pennsylvania, have also been denounced for allegedly making references to the charge of ritual murder. This claim is based on his use of images of blood, or babies slaughtered by the Israel Defence Forces. Under threat of disciplinary measures and withdrawal of the wealthy donors on which their finances depend, American universities are imposing the strict censorship regime demanded by the Israeli state and the two right-wing parties that exercise a political monopoly in the US.

Outside the US, the campaign of the ruling elites to suppress all dissenting voices is going forward at full throttle in France, Germany and Britain, where governments have banned pro-Palestinian demonstrations and criminalized the slogan From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free. And it intensified in Canada last week with the hysterical allegations of antisemitism surrounding the Netanyahu vampire cartoon.

An orchestrated campaign of slander

Chapleaus cartoon was first denounced on X by the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), a far-right Zionist organization, shortly after its publication in the morning. Accusing La Presse of antisemitism, CIJA claimed that the figures hooked fingers and big nose were antisemitic tropes.

Once the tone was set, the entire political establishment echoed and amplified the accusation of antisemitism. [T]his kind of anti-Semitic trope is reminiscent of the 1930s, wrote Conservative Senator Leo Housakos on X. Christopher Skeete of the Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) provincial government, meanwhile, said, I applaud the fact that its been removed, but Ill tell you it was in bad taste. It was hurtful.

The NDPs Deputy Leader and lone Quebec MP Alexandre Boulerice said, To depict the Prime Minister of Israel as a vampirethats a historical reference that the anti-Semitic far right made in the 1920s and 1930s of the last centuryso I think it was inappropriate. I think he could have chosen another monster.

Finally, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared at a press conference on Wednesday that anti-Semitic content and allusions are always unacceptable. Its rehashing allusions that date back many decades, in a way that is absolutely unacceptable.

These denunciations are both cynical and hypocritical. Those who today claim to be outraged by a supposedly antisemitic cartoon are fervent defenders of the alliance between the Ukrainian far right and the Canadian government. They support a war against Russia in Ukraine in which Canada is allied with neo-Nazis, i.e., real antisemites. And they fail to mention the presence in the heart of the Israeli government of hard-core fascists who openly call for genocide and ethnic cleansing in the Palestinian Occupied Territories.

While it is true that the image of the vampire has been associated with antisemitic caricature, notably by the Nazis, it is far from being the monopoly of the extreme right. The image of the vampire has also long been used to symbolize powerful, sinister, murderous figures (such as Netanyahu), without any reference to Jews or Judaism. The vampire has been used to represent all kinds of ruling-class figures, and even to illustrate capital itself.

In his inimitable use of metaphor, Karl Marx wrote: Capital is dead labour, that, vampire-like, only lives by sucking living labour, and lives the more, the more labour it sucks. More recently, Chilean director Pablo Larrains film El Conde (released last year on Netflix), imagines fascist dictator Augusto Pinochet, in the image of Count Orlock, as a sinister, bloodthirsty vampire.

The accusation of antisemitism in the case of Chapleaus cartoon, which targets a head of government, is a politically-motivated amalgam, one that equates Netanyahu and his government with the Jewish people so as to falsely claim it is directed at all Jews. This amalgam depends on the idea that Netanyahu and the Israeli state are the only legitimate representatives of the Jews, and that the policy of the Israeli state is that of the Jewish people, an idea that is itself antisemitic, and deeply offensive to the many Jews who oppose the ongoing genocide in Palestine.

As recently as last fall, the very politicians who now parade their sensitivity to antisemitic tropes of the 1930s, including Trudeau himself, gave a standing ovation to a Nazi war criminal. Yaroslav Hunka served in the 14th Grenadier Division of the Waffen-SS, known as the Galicia Division, which consisted of Ukrainian fascists who fought under Hitlers command against the Soviet Union.

The Canadian ruling class has a long history of antisemitism in Quebec and English Canada. Canada systematically excluded refugees fleeing Hitlers regime. Even after the Second World War and all the horrors of the Holocaust, the Deputy Minister of Immigration could declare of Jewish refugees: None is too many. In 1930s Quebec, French-Canadian nationalists spearheaded antisemitic incitement.

After the Second World War, Canada became a haven for far-right Ukrainian nationalists who had collaborated with the Nazis in their invasion of the Soviet Union and the Holocaust. At the start of the US-led Cold War, these right-wing extremist forces were seen as potential allies because of their fanatical opposition to communism and any Soviet influence. Immediately after the war, Canadas Liberal government, in collaboration with U.S. and British intelligence services, facilitated the entry of Ukrainians associated with Nazi groups into Canada. This included former members of the Galicia Division.

Canadian imperialism, which has welcomed Nazi war criminals, is currently in alliance with neo-Nazi forces in Ukraine. At the same time, it supports Israels genocide against the Palestinians in the Middle East to the hilt.

The genocide in Gaza and the military operations of the imperialist powers in the Middle East, which are aimed at preparing war on Iran, are just one front in a growing global conflict. Another is NATOs war against Russia in Ukraine, which has already claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. It paves the way for direct conflict with Russia, and ultimately with China. Whats more, theres a close link between imperialist war and the turn of ruling elites around the world towards neo-fascist forces, such as Donald Trump in the US and Giorgia Meloni in Italy.

But none of these developments offend the imperialist moralists who cry antisemitism. On the contrary, they are its main protagonists.

Vampires, antisemitism and Nosferatu

The mere fact that Chapleau used the image of a vampire to attack Netanyahu was enough for bourgeois politicians and media to accuse him of antisemitism. But the image of the vampire does not belong exclusively to antisemites. Its use in political caricature has a long history, which is not intrinsically antisemitic.

It wasnt just in the pages of the Sturmer that images of vampires were to be found in political cartoons of the first half of the twentieth century. We can, for example, observe the use of an almost identical vampire-bat image in two cartoons, the first of which is a well-known antisemitic cartoon published in the Sturmer, while the second appeared in Germanys most important left-wing illustrated newspaper (Der Wahre Jacob) and denounced the interwar order without any reference to Jews.

"Vampire" images from a 1930 edition of Sturmer [Left] and a 1919 edition of Wahre Jacob [Right] [Photo: University of Heidelberg Library]

It is precisely because the link between the image of the vampire and antisemitism is so weak and one-sided, that the imperialist propagandists have felt it necessary to present Nosferatu as one of the favorite films of the Nazis, and even an explicitly antisemitic work.

David Frum, a leading voice of neo-conservatism, embellished the accusation of antisemitism with details that were repeated without any verification. The 1922 film Nosferatu that inspired the La Presse cartoon also inspired Nazi cartoonists of the Third Reich, he wrote on X.

As a source for the claim that Nosferatu was associated with the Nazis, Frum provided a blog post published by the ANU (Museum of the Jewish People, a Zionist institution funded by the Israeli state) by an author who is not a historian and who provides no source for assertions that he alone makes. The author, who describes himself as a storyteller, bluntly asserts that Julius Streicher, publisher of the Nazi newspaper der Sturmer, was a great fan of the film Nosferatu. Neither the author nor the institution would provide a source when asked.

But Nosferatu is not the work of proto-Nazis, nor can it be interpreted as antisemitic without violating the rules of the objective interpretation of art. Directed in 1921 by Friedrich Wilhelm Murnau, the film represented the artistic experimentation and innovation of the Weimar era, not the reactionary prejudices and resentments that fueled the Nazi movement.

A considerable number of Nosferatus creators were themselves Jewish and influenced not by the right, but by the left. The films screenwriter, Henrik Galeen, was Jewish. Alexander Granach, who played a major character in the drama, Renfield, has been said to be the best-known Jewish actor in Germany at the time. Gustav von Wangenheim, who played Hutter, was of Jewish origin and a member of the German Communist Party. The career of Max Schreck, the films lead actor, was later associated with such figures as Max Ophuls and Bertolt Brecht.

As the World Socialist Web Site pointed out in a review of the film:

Murnaus Nosferatu [was shot] only a few years after the slaughter of the First World War. His lover [who was Jewish!] died in the trenches, along with millions of others. Whatever conscious views Murnau may have had about the conflict, and there is no indication that he was a political opponent, this dark, lacerating work is a response, passed through the directors (and screenwriter Galeens) artistic filters, to the monumental devastation of the war (and the 1918 flu pandemic related to it, which also killed tens of millions).

The attempt to vandalize Nosferatu as an anti-Semitic work depends on a postmodernist analytical framework that is profoundly hostile to culture and historical truth, and which is simply taken up in the current campaign to denigrate any form of opposition to the genocide launched against the Palestinian people.

The ruling establishments theatrics of moral outrage at the La Presse cartoon have nothing to do with opposition to antisemitism. Rather, it serves to legitimize Israels genocidal policy, supported by Washington and Ottawa, intimidate public opinion and confuse the working class and youth.

The only appropriate response from workers and young people, who have demonstrated by the millions across the world against the descent into capitalist barbarism, is to direct all their energy towards mobilizing the only social force capable of putting an end to the capitalist system that breeds genocide and imperialist warthe international working class.
Earlier this month, the Socialist Equality Party (SEP) launched a campaign to regain official party registration so that it can have its name on the ballot at the next Australian federal election. This is essential, as the SEP is the only party with a socialist program and perspective to fight war and inequality and their source, the capitalist system.

The campaign has been met with a strong response from workers and young people who are horrified by Israels genocide of Palestinians in Gaza and shocked by the Labor governments full-throated support of this barbarism.

At mass protests against the Gaza onslaught, on university campuses, in working-class suburbs, SEP members have spoken to hundreds of people who are looking for an alternative to capitalism, the root cause of genocide, war and the deepening social crisis confronting ordinary people.

Published today are comments from several of those who have joined the party as electoral members, explaining why they support the SEP, and urging other workers and young people to follow their lead.

To apply to become an electoral member (EM) today, fill out the form at the end of this article, or click here.

Leanne, 47, a child protection worker in Far North Queensland, initially met the party when she was 14 through her father: I first attended meetings back in the day when the SEP was called the Socialist Labour League. Years on, I now live in Cairns but still read the website, and support the party, likely until the day I die! I definitely believe theres no other political party that supports the working-class struggle.

Leanne

I had a politically formative experience arising from the death of Daniel Yock. It was a steep learning curve for me. It taught me that the aboriginal bureaucrats dont support their own people, but their own class interests. I understood the need for a class-based party because it is a class-based system. The struggles need to be fought on a class level, not on a capitalist, parliamentary level.

On Labors recently defeated Voice referendum, Leanne said: It was a distraction from whats actually taking place, the build-up of the military, whats going on overseas. The majority of aboriginal people are working class. We need to come together on a class basis, not a racial basis.

She urged people to join as an electoral member: Becoming an EM, you will get educated on what is going on, it will be an opportunity to understand the truth of what is going on in the world politically.

Joe, an 18-year-old University of Newcastle student, said: I used to be in Young Labor, and I thought maybe you could change it from the inside, but I thought if Albanese, who is part of my party, is supporting genocide, ethnic cleansing, the murder of civiliansNazi Germany did the same thing less than 100 years agomorally, I couldnt stand with that.

Joe

The party should be able to participate in the elections and they should win. I am joining the SEP because they know the right way to stop genocide. Its not by appealing to your local MPs or spreading awareness on social media, its by taking up a political struggle based on the lessons of history, such as the Russian Revolution, and mobilising the working class to strike systematically.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. Russia discredits the Armenian fake about supplying weapons to Ukraine from Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

Thus, answering a provocative question from an Armenian journalist during a weekly briefing, Spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said that Moscow closely contacts Azerbaijan on this issue.

"Please be aware that the Azerbaijani side has formally refuted the aforementioned information. We are in close communication with the Azerbaijani side on this matter, as are all other countries, with the exception of Western countries, which not only openly proclaim but actively gloat about their arms deliveries. However, when it comes to the non-involvement of states in the hybrid war with Russia, information concerning weaponry delivery emerges, and we scrutinize each one," she remarked.

According to Zakharova, all information about potential arms shipments to Ukraine is carefully verified by relevant Russian authorities.

"We have done this with a number of countries, discussing bilaterally when we could not convey this position to partners through diplomatic channels. We went public, taking a series of measures in this direction. So, we discuss in detail every public and non-public piece of information with all countries involved. The main thing is that such information about Armenia does not appear anywhere. That would just be outrageous," the official added.

Previously, Armenian media and Telegram channels spread fake information that in 2022-2023, Azerbaijan allegedly "supplied Ukraine with anti-aircraft guns and mortar shells." These rumors were rejected by the Ministry of Defense Industry of Azerbaijan.

The ministry said that Armenian Telegram channels are trying to spread information about allegedly "the sending of military products by Azerbaijan to Ukraine."

"Attempts to disseminate similar false and untruthful news on Armenian Telegram channels have already been made previously. This information has no basis and should not be taken seriously. Once again, we inform you that Azerbaijan did not send any military products in the indicated direction," the ministry noted.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
The media blackout of the supposed suicide of Boeing whistleblower John Barnett continues amid the announcement from the aerospace giant that its CEO, David Calhoun, will be stepping down at the end of the year.

The same announcement also revealed that Stan Deal, the head of Boeings commercial airplanes division, is stepping down immediately, to be replaced by Stephanie Pope, and that the chair of Boeings Board of Directors, Larry Kellner, will not stand for reelection. Steve Mollenkopf will act as independent board chair until a more formal vote at Boeings next shareholders meeting.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun speaks with reporters at the Capitol in Washington on January 24, 2024. [AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite]

During his tenure, Calhoun made $24.5 million in salary and benefits and will possibly make a further $45.5 million from stock options he retains and $5 million from a retirement package.

The exit of the executives takes place amid the scandal surrounding the many problems that have plagued Boeing aircraft in previous months, most notably the blowout of an exit-row door on a Boeing 737 Max 9 in January. The FBI has opened a criminal investigation into whether the blowout violates Boeings settlement in 2021 for misleading federal regulators about the safety of its 737 Max aircraft.

There have been numerous other incidents on Boeing aircraft in the past three months, all of which reflect the drive of the companys executives to maximize profits for stockholders to the detriment of safety on its fleet of commercial airliners. These include:

A cracked cockpit window on a Boeing 737800

An engine catching fire after takeoff on a Boeing 7478

A lost landing gear wheel while taxiing on a Boeing 757

A lost landing gear wheel after takeoff on a Boeing 777200

A midflight technical issue that resulted in the sudden drop of a Boeing 7879 Dreamliner, injuring 50 people

A fuel leak after takeoff on a Boeing 777300

An exterior panel falling off after takeoff on a Boeing 737800

What has been largely dropped, however, is the fact that Boeing is currently involved in a civil suit brought by the now deceased whistleblower John Barnett.

John Barnett in the 2022 Netflix documentary "Downfall: The Case Against Boeing." [Photo: Netflix]

Barnett worked at Boeing for 32 years and was a quality manager. For most of that time he was responsible for ensuring the safety of aircraft before they were sold. During the last part of his tenure, he worked at the companys new production facility in Charleston, South Carolina, which produces the 787 Dreamliner. There he documented numerous ethics complaints about a deep-rooted and persistent culture of concealment concerning the dangerous lack of quality control at the facility.

Barnetts suit alleges that in response, Boeing forced him to retire 10 years earlier than he would have liked, having forced him to work in a gray area where he could not document defects. The whistleblower was slated to give the third day of a deposition in his suit when he was found shot in the head in his truck in a hotel parking lot on the morning of March 9.

With little investigation, the Charleston County coroner ruled that the cause of death was a self-inflicted wound, coinciding with a police report that found a white piece of paper resembling a note near Barnetts body.

In response, Barnetts lawyers immediately released a statement contradicting the official report, declaring:

We didnt see any indication that he would take his own life. No one can believe it. The Charleston police need to investigate this fully and accurately and tell the public. No detail can be left unturned.

More explosively, a close family friend of Barnett told an ABC affiliate on March 11 that Barnett warned her, If anything happens to me, its not suicide.

The full 32-page complaint was released by Barnetts lawyers after his death. It reveals a culture of neglect and criminality within the company that is no doubt a major factor in the numerous problems on Boeing aircraft over the past three months.

Among the more damning claims is the assertion that Barnett and others were pressured by Boeing upper management to violate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Standards and Regulations. In particular, the complaint says that they were told to ignore defects on the Dreamliner, resulting in an incomplete build record, which constitutes a criminal felony offense and has the potential to adversely impact the safety of the flying public.

That there is next to no mention of Barnett, his suit, or his death in the corporate media is by design. Boeing is already facing a public backlash from its near-catastrophes, as well as renewed focus on the deaths of 346 people on 737 Max 8 crashes in October 2018 and March 2019. Numerous memes have appeared on social media ridiculing the flight capabilities of the companys aircraft, and options to exclude flights on Boeing planes are among the most popular options on travel websites.

A trending meme warning of the dangers of Boeing aircraft and the coronavirus pandemic.

To acknowledge that Boeing is so concretely exposed would further undermine its already precarious position. Boeings stock is down almost 26 percent from the beginning of the year, and the sole concern of those who own the major media outlets, many of whom have stock in Boeing, is pumping Boeings shares back up to their December heights and beyond.

In other words, the fix is in for Boeings current slate of issues. None of the multimillionaires who oversaw and drove the systematic violation of safety standards and procedures will be held accountable. As in the past, the Republicans, the Democrats and the regulatory agencies, all of which are proxies for the corporate oligarchy, will do their best to bury the truth, regardless of the danger to human life.
Journalist Ibrahim Samra has filed a federal lawsuit against CBS Detroit for firing him when he complained about the discriminatory treatment he faced for opposing the broadcasters biased coverage of the Israeli assault on Gaza.

Journalist Ibrahim Samra [Photo: Ibrahim Samra]

Samra, 27, is a Dearborn, Michigan, resident and had worked for WKBD, the Detroit affiliate of CBS News, since 2022. He was the only Arab, Palestinian and Muslim employee at the station. He was fired on February 28 after the station refused to air his reporting on a campaign urging Democratic Party primary voters to cast uncommitted ballots to protest President Joe Bidens support for the genocide of Palestinians by Israel in Gaza.

Samra filed his lawsuit in US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan against CBS/CTS Inc., WKBD Inc., CBS Broadcasting Inc. and Paramount Pictures Corporation. According to a report in the Washington Post, the journalist said executives at CBS Detroit came down on him for posting scenes of local protests and rallies on his social media accounts. They then quizzed him about his views on Hamas in a way he believed implied he supports the group, which the United States has designated as a terrorist organization.

The Samra case is important because it exposes the collaboration of the corporate media with the US government and the fascistic Netanyahu regime in Israel in spreading lies about the unfolding genocide in Gaza and what brought it about in the first place. It also exposes the ongoing efforts by the government and the media to silence those seeking to tell the truth about the mass murder of over 30,000 Palestinians and the ethnic cleansing of Gaza by the Zionist government with the backing of US imperialism.

The Post article said that, while Samra was in Chicago caring for his sick mother last October, he posted a video of a nearby antiwar demonstration on his Instagram account. His lawsuit says after he returned to work in Detroit, his CBS bosses brought him into a meeting and bombarded him with a series of accusatory and offensive questions about the intention behind the video.

Amanda Ghannam, the attorney who filed the federal lawsuit on behalf of Samra, told the Post, All he wanted was equal airtime for Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim voices to be able to tell timely, relevant, newsworthy stories about the war in Gaza as it unfolded. And he wasnt allowed to do that.

CBS Detroit declined to respond to questions about the lawsuit and issued a statement saying it does not comment on pending litigation or employee matters.

Ghannam said that the case is not just about Samra: This case is about the community that he was assigned to cover and their stories and the work that he was doing to make sure that communities here in Metro Detroit had access to the information that he was reporting on.

Ibrahim Samra in a native of Chicago and was hired by CBS Detroit after a short period with WNDU-16 in South Bend, Indiana. He began with assignments to cover the Arab American communities in Dearborn, Dearborn Heights and Hamtramck as well as other areas of the Downriver area of Michigan.

A report in the Detroit Free Press states that the silencing of Samra by CBS News began shortly after October 7 when he attempted to raise his concerns about a bias in coverage. He objected to the prioritization of the Israeli narrative in local coverage over Arab perspectives. Samra also complained that non-Arab employees of the station were permitted to speak openly on and off the air about living in Israel and to publicize their opinions about the events in Gaza.

The Free Press report says a CBS news standards and practices official told Samra that she took issue with his war-related Instagram video posts. This included a video Samra posted of a protest in Chicago for Palestine on October 22, 2023.

The network then excluded Samra from covering any Gaza related stories and blocked the airing of coverage he pitched to CBS about a Livonia, Michigan, resident who was trapped in Gaza. At this point, Samra filed formal complaint about his treatment by station and its biased coverage.

In an investigation conducted by CBS parent Paramount Pictures, it was determined, according to a memo provided to the Free Press, that some of the concerns raised (by Samra) constituted missed opportunities as to news coverage, but did not substantiate any company policy violations.

The results of the investigation also said station managers would be more transparent and flexible in scheduling and assigning stories, as well as providing clarity as to why pitches are or are not approved. However, according to the lawsuit, from that point forward Samra was permitted to cover only a handful of war-related stories and continued to be falsely accused of violating policies.

As Ghannam told the Post, after the investigation confirmed Samras concerns about disparities in coverage, CBS News Detroit could have taken the opportunity to do the right thing to listen to their staff to improve their coverage and balance out their reporting. Instead, they fired Mr. Samra.

Speaking at a press conference in Detroit to promote his lawsuit on Monday, Samra said that there are many stories that need to be told and he is going to continue to tell them. He recounted a conversation with a young man who said he had lost 300 relatives in Gaza over the past five months, These are the stories that need to be shared.
The Australian Labor government today suffered a setback in its bid to again team up with the openly right-wing Liberal-National Coalition to drive through parliament in less than two days a draconian bill that strips refugees, immigration detainees and other non-citizens of fundamental democratic rights.

It was the third such emergency bill in four months, but the Coalition today voted with other non-government senators to refer the bill to a Senate legal committee, which will hand down a report on May 7. The Coalitions only concern was to guarantee that the bill is legally watertight.

The Migration Amendment (Removals and Other Measures) Bill would give the immigration minister arbitrary powers to order non-citizens to sign documents and do whatever else is needed to ensure their rapid removal from the country. Anyone who refused such an order would face up to five years imprisonment, even if they genuinely feared death or persecution as a result of being deported.

This legislation marks a further lurch in a right-wing, autocratic direction, spearheaded by Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses government. It is seeking to outdo the Coalition in witch-hunting asylum seekers and immigrants. This is a poisonous political diversion, seeking to divide working people along national and ethnic lines, in response to the deepening collapse of popular support for the two parties that have ruled since World War II.

Not accidentally, the Labor government brought forward this bill, drafted in advance, suddenly yesterday morning. That was just two days after the Tasmanian state election resulted in neither party being able to form a majority government. The popular hostility to their joint program of war, genocide and austerity has raised the spectre of a similar hung parliament and political breakdown at the national level.

Once again making a mockery of parliamentary democracy, as they did twice last November-December, Labor and the Coalition gagged any pretence of debate, guillotining the removals bill through the House of Representatives yesterday in a little over two hours. That was followed by a farcical two-hour Senate inquiry last night, before the Coalition shifted tack to demand more time to ensure the legislations effectiveness.

The bill would likely see the quick-fire removal of up to 1,000 non-citizens. That includes some of the 149 freed last November by a High Court ruling after years of unlawful immigration detention, plus an estimated 170 people still in detention facilities, and others living in the community on temporary visas.

The legislation would confront asylum seekers with a diabolical choice: return to a country where they may be harmed, tortured or killed, or suffer lengthy imprisonment.

More broadly, the bill sets many reactionary political and legal precedents. Among its other extraordinary features, the legislation:

Allows the immigration minister to overturn the granting of refugee status to anyone selected for deportation.

Rules out genuine fear of harm, persecution or other adverse consequences as a reasonable excuse to refuse to obey a ministerial order to sign deportation-related documents or attend interviews.

Forces parents to sign deportation documents for their children, regardless of their best interests.

Imposes mandatory sentences of one years imprisonment for failing to comply with a ministerial order, with maximum sentences of five years.

Gives the government the power to impose Donald Trump-style travel bans, barring entry visas to people from designated removal concern countries, with Iran, South Sudan and Russia already suggested as targets.

Expands what has been dubbed god-like ministerial powers to deny or revoke visas without even considering exemption requests.

Backed by the Coalition, in recent months the Albanese government has also recommenced one of the most barbaric features of the countrys anti-refugee policythe incarceration of asylum-seekers on remote Pacific islands, such as Nauru.

Labor and the Coalition are aligning themselves with the measures being taken in Britain, across Europe and in the United States, including by the Biden administration, to shut borders to the tens of millions of people fleeing wars and impoverishment. Governments in all the imperialist countries are making refugees scapegoats amid intensifying military spending and social and political crises.

Moreover, the removals bill is another flagrant bid to thwart a High Court decision. This is a further warning of the determination of the ruling class and its political servants to override even limited judicial rulings that punitive measures against non-citizens violate the countrys constitution. On April 17, the High Court is due to hear an appeal by a refugee, labelled ASF17, who has refused to cooperate in being deported to Iran, where he fears persecution on sexuality grounds.

In recent weeks, the government has already moved to shut down High Court challenges to the two previous bipartisan emergency anti-immigrant bills rushed through last year. The government settled several court cases by lifting restrictions it had imposed on former detainees.

One of those bills inflicted ankle-bracelet monitoring, curfews and other police-state measures on people released from detention after last Novembers High Court decision, which ended most indefinite immigration detention. The other bill sought to re-imprison detainees via a new preventative detention regime.

Australian Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil [Photo: Clare ONeil MP]

There has been a bipartisan and media scare campaign, demonising the released detainees as murderers and rapists. Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil publicly accused the High Court of putting criminal perpetrators on the streets. In reality, many detainees are traumatised refugees, and all have served any prison sentences they received for earlier convictions.

At the same time, there must be no illusions that the High Court will protect the rights of the detainees or anyone else. For three decades, until last November, the court sanctioned the indefinite incarceration of asylum seekers and other non-citizens denied visas.

Australias 1901 Constitution has no bill of rights. Its only limited protection against arbitrary detention is a formal separation of executive and judicial powers. That bars governments from explicitly punishing people without a judicial process, except during wartime.

The removals bill has provoked condemnations by refugee, civil liberties and legal groups, including the Refugee Council of Australia, Amnesty International Australia, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and the Human Rights Law Centre.

Among their criticisms was that the legislation risked serious non-compliance with Australias obligations under the Refugee Convention as well as other international instruments.

Greens leader Adam Bandt accused Labor of being in a race to the bottom with the Coalition on immigration.

In fact, the Keating Labor government in 1992 began the assault, setting the precedent of mandatory detention of all people arriving by boat. Successive Australian governments have continued to pioneer the global attack on the democratic and legal rights of asylum seekers.

The Howard Coalition government of 19962007 extended mandatory incarceration into indefinite detention, including on remote islands in the Pacific and Indian oceans. That was taken further by the Greens-backed Rudd-Gillard Labor governments of 2007 to 2013, the Coalition governments of 2013 to 2022, and now the Albanese government.

The attack on refugees and immigrants is part of a broader offensive against basic democratic rights. Repressive mechanisms are being put in place to preserve capitalist rule against the development of mass opposition to war, widening social inequality and deteriorating living conditions.

This social, political and anti-war discontent must be transformed into a conscious international movement of the working class against the capitalist order and its divisive nation-state system. That means building the only party, the Socialist Equality Party (SEP), that opposes the war on refugees and fights for the right of all working people worldwide to live and work where they choose.

The SEP has launched a campaign throughout the working class to regain our official party registration, so that the SEPs name will appear on ballot papers alongside our election candidates to give voters the basic right to express their support for the socialist alternative to capitalist barbarism, war, inequality and dictatorship.

We urge all our readers and supporters to join the SEP as electoral members using the form below, and to seriously consider applying to become full members of the party.
Five days after the terrible terrorist attack on a rock concert in Moscow, which claimed at least 137 lives and injured over 180 people, the Western press has largely been whipped into line. Although little is known about the perpetrators and the background of the act, all comments claim that the Islamic State (IS) committed the attack and that this excludes any responsibility and complicity of Ukraine and the NATO powers.

In this photo taken from video released by the Investigative Committee of Russia on Saturday, March 23, 2024, firefighter work in the burned concert hall after an attack on the building of the Crocus City Hall on the western edge of Moscow, Russia. [AP Photo/Investigative Committee of Russia]

The commentators can hardly hide their satisfaction with the attack. The Putin regime tries to legitimize its rule by claiming that it effectively protects the population from all external and internal enemies, wrote the German Swiss Neue Zurcher Zeitung. Now there is a blatant failure.

Putin is scapegoating Ukraine to distract from this failure. So why is Putin spreading the Ukraine scent? wonders the German publication t-online. Because the supposedly strong man in the Kremlin has failed in his great promise: to protect his people ... Putin misuses terror in Moscow to justify Moscows terror in Ukraine. Totally unscrupulous.

There are dozens of similar commentaries echoing the same tone. This shows how much the supposedly democratic media have put themselves at the service of war propaganda. In fact, the attack has the mark of the CIA and its proxies in Kiev all over it, as the World Socialist Web Site has noted.

If ISIS or one of its offshoots actually committed the attack in Moscow, this does not speak against but for the complicity of Ukraine and NATO. Ever since the CIA set up Al-Qaeda led by Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan in the 1980s to fight Soviet troops, the US has repeatedly used Islamist terrorist groups to achieve its imperialist goalsincluding IS.

Hundreds of Islamists from the Caucasus and Central Asia are currently operating in Ukraine. Having gained combat experience in IS, they are continuing their fight against Russia with official cover from the army and intelligence service, including behind enemy lines.

Hardly anything about this is mentioned in the Western media. One of the few exceptions is the article Traces of Ukraine?, published by the Suddeutsche Zeitung on 23 March. Its longtime foreign correspondent Tomas Avenarius concludes that the speculation that the Ukrainian secret services used Caucasian radicals from the IS network to make a fool of Putin before the Russians and the whole world a few days after his pseudo-election as president could make sense.

In the war against the Russian aggressive warriors, legions of Caucasian Muslim and Russian volunteers fight alongside the Ukrainian army. There are reportedly hundreds, reports Avenarius. They came from Caucasus regions belonging to Russia, such as Chechnya, Ingushetia or Dagestan. Many fought against the Russians in Chechnya and then became part of the IS terror network in the wars and uprisings in the Arab world.

Two decades later, anti-Putin fighters from the Caucasus continue their lost war in Ukraine, Avenarius stated. Many were already radicalized Islamists in the Chechen war, and later fought in Syria against the Assad regime, which was allied with Moscow. During this time, they often joined IS.

Avenarius is in a position to know. He was a Moscow and Middle East correspondent for the Suddeutsche Zeitung for many years and wrote an award-winning report on the second Chechen war in 2003.

The attack on the Crocus City Hall in Moscow marks a new stage in the NATO war against Russia. It comes at a time when the Ukrainian army is facing defeat and NATO is pushing to escalate the war, including deploying its own ground forces and pushing deep into Russias interior.

As the WSWS has stated, the attack in Moscow has three objectives: First, to embolden opposition to the Putin regime within the oligarchy and state apparatus; second, to provoke a military response by the Kremlin that can serve as the pretext for a further escalation of the war by NATO; and third, to foster ethnic and religious tensions within Russia that would destabilize the regime and facilitate the carve-up of the entire region by the imperialist powers.

The terrorist attack has been accompanied by an intensification of Western war propaganda. It recognises no red lines and consciously accepts the risk of a nuclear escalation that threatens to destroy all of Europe and large parts of the world.

Typical was a guest article by Ben Hodges, the former commander of the US land forces in Europe, published by the Suddeutsche Zeitung on Sunday. Hodges accused US President Joe Biden of not being determined enough to support Ukraine. The US and its allies must declare Ukraines victory as their strategic goal, make annexed Crimea untenable for the Russians, and make arms production for Ukraine a priority, he demanded.

The Commander-in-Chief of Germanys Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), Inspector General Carsten Breuer, has repeated his demand that Germany must be ready for war in five years and be able to wage war against Russia. The Bundeswehr special fund of 100 billion, which was adopted two years ago, is merely start-up financing for rearming the Bundeswehr. What is needed is a consolidation of defence spending, as well as the development of an effective missile defence.

The effort to make Germany fit for war is not limited to the military sector. One federal ministry after another is subordinating its work to this goal.

Federal Minister of Education Bettina Stark-Watzinger (Free Democrats) intends to send young military officers to schools and introduce civil defence exercises in the event of war. Universities should in principle be open to military research.

Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (Social Democrats, SPD) intends to prepare the German healthcare system for military conflicts. He has announced a corresponding draft law for the summer. It would be silly to say that we are not preparing for a military conflict, and then it will not come, he told the Osnabrucker Zeitung. Doing nothing is not an option. We also need a new era for healthcare. Especially since, in case of a situation where an ally needs support, Germany could also become a hub for the care of injured and wounded from other countries.

At a conference in Berlin, Economics Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) declared that the land war had returned to Europe. For this reason, arms production would have to be ramped up, and the deployment scenarios for national defense would have to be reactivated. And that will come at a price. WE have to be clear about that.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD) is combining anti-Russian war propaganda with a systematic build-up of state repression domestically aimed at suppressing resistance to war and social cuts.

She accused Russia of hybrid warfare. We see attempts to influence through lies, through massive disinformation, she told the Suddeutsche Zeitung. Spies are also active, she added. At the same time, she accused the Kremlin of deliberately promoting refugee movements and destabilising the West with migration. We are actually experiencing a new dimension of the threats posed by Russian aggression.

The German government will arm itself more strongly against Russias influence in Western Europe, she said. Artificial intelligence will be used against disinformation campaigns. A new early detection unit against fake news in the Interior Ministry is supposed to expose lies before they become a big wave and flood the internet, Faeser said. In practice, this amounts to censoring unwanted views on social media.

At the same time, the police presence in public areas is being strengthened under the pretext of preventing Islamist attacks. In France, the government even declared the highest terror warning level on Sunday. Heavily armed soldiers are now again patrolling train stations, airports and other public places.

Eighty-five years after the invasion of Poland and the beginning of the Second World War, the German ruling class is returning to its criminal, militarist traditions. This madness is supported by all parties represented in parliament. It can only be stopped by an independent movement of the international working class that combines opposition to war with the struggle against its cause: capitalism.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. On March 27, another group of former internally displaced persons, consisting of families temporarily settled in dormitories, sanatoriums, pioneer camps and administrative buildings in various territories of Azerbaijan, was sent to the city of Fuzuli from the Garadagh district of Baku, Trend reports.

At this stage, another 35 families (134 people) moved to the city of Fuzuli.

The resettled families will settle in the houses where they once lived in Fuzuli, which were restored or rebuilt on the basis of instructions from the head of state after the end of the Armenian occupation. Fuzuli residents thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care, expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

Until today, a permanent settlement in the city of Fuzuli has been provided for 631 families - 2,379 people.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. A farewell ceremony was held for Akif Mahmudov, whose remains were found in a mass grave discovered in Khojaly, Trend reports.

The remains of Akif Mahmudov, who went missing during the Khojaly atrocity, were brought to Jeyranbatan settlement to be buried, where his family lives.



A farewell ceremony for the martyr was held there, attended by Mahmudov's relatives and close friends, Khojaly residents, the head of the Khojaly District Executive Power Shahmar Usubov, the head of the Khojaly District Department of the State Service for Mobilization and Recruitment for Military Service Ragim Mustafayev, veterans, and members of the public.

Meanwhile, Akif Mahmudov was born in 1962 in Khojaly. As a member of the volunteer self-defense unit, he disappeared at the age of 30 on February 26, 1992.

He was married with two sons.

The Khojaly massacre was the mass killing of Azerbaijani civilians by Armenian forces and the 366th CIS regiment in the town of Khojaly on 26 February 1992. The event became the largest single massacre throughout the entire Karabakh conflict.

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Harsh conditions and high winds quickly challenged the kayakers," the state's Wildlife Resources Agency said Tuesday

Getty Lake Nickajack in Tennessee

A group of 27 kayakers are safely back on dry land after high winds left them stranded inside a cave on a Tennessee lake.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) said it received a call for help at around 8:30 p.m. Monday according to WKRN, WSMV and WZTV.

The TWRA said the 27 kayakers  made up of both adults and children  had been part of a tour group on Nickajack Lake near Chattanooga and began having difficulty due to the high winds as they approached the cave, per WSMV.

Harsh conditions and high winds quickly challenged the kayakers, and a few did enter the water. The entire group made it to shore near the cave and called for emergency assistance, the TWRA said in a statement obtained by WKRN.

Haletown Volunteer Fire Department/Facebook 27 kayakers rescued from Lake Nickajack in Tennessee

Related: Baltimore Bridge Collapse Survivor Described Watching Ship Get Closer, Says Maryland Gov.

Officers from the TWRA, Haletown Volunteer Fire Department, Puckett EMS, and the Marion County Sheriffs Office were dispatched to the scene, though the first responders also had some difficulty with the rescue, according to the outlets.

The Haletowns Volunteer Fire Department arrived with a small boat to aid in the rescue efforts, but due to the boats small size, it was capsized by the strong winds before it was disconnected from the trailer.

Related: Missing Houston Woman Found Safe 2 Weeks After She Disappeared on Morning Walk with Her Dog

Haletown Volunteer Fire Department/Facebook 27 kayakers rescued from cave in Lake Nickajack, Tennessee

Despite this, TWRA officers said they were able to transport all the kayakers from the cave back to shore despite extremely poor water conditions, per WKRN. The kayakers were evaluated by medical staff on the shore, though no injuries were reported from the incident.

TWRA Boating Officer David Holt told the outlets that the kayakers decision to wear life jackets may have saved their lives.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

This is a great example of the importance of life jackets, Holt said, per WSMV. With water temperatures in the mid to high 40s and high wind speeds, life jackets were a key safety factor.

The TWRA did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment on the incident.

Over the past few days, Tennessee weather reports have forecasted gusty winds. On Tuesday, a wind advisory was called for many parts of the state, with gusts estimated between 20 and 40 mph according to WKRN.



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Annette Bening and Warren Beattys youngest daughter Ella is following in their footsteps

David Buchan/Variety/Penske Media/Getty Annette Bening, Warren Beatty and Ella Beatty attend A24's '20th Century Women' at AFI Fest 2016, at The Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, California on November 16, 2016

Annette Bening and Warren Beattys youngest daughter Ella Beatty is coming into her own in her acting career.

The Feud: Capote vs. The Swans actress was born to her iconic actor parents on April 8, 2000. She is the youngest of four children, including brothers Stephen and Benjamin and sister Isabel.

After graduating from The Juilliard School in May 2022, Ella went on to create a career for herself in Hollywood. In March 2024, she also made her Broadway debut in Appropriate.

Related: All About Warren Beatty and Annette Bening's 4 Kids

Ella is aware of the privilege that comes with being the daughter of two acclaimed actors, she told Vogue in February 2024. However, she said she still hopes to add something new to the conversation.

I totally acknowledge that there is an inherent privilege and exposure that comes from having well-known actors as parents, she said. And I really hope that I can offer something meaningful.

From watching her parents on set when she was a child to becoming a star in her own right, heres everything to know about Annette Bening and Warren Beattys daughter, Ella Beatty.

She was born in 2000

Ella Beatty Instagram Ella Beatty when she was a child on her birthday.

Annette and Warren welcomed their fourth child, Ella, on April 8, 2000. Before she was born, Ella already was joining her parents at industry events like the Academy Awards red carpet.

During an appearance on the Today show in March 2024, Annette reflected on the 1999 Oscars when she was heavily pregnant with Ella.

"It's so funny you asked me this because one time I was nominated I was extremely pregnant," she said. "I was just about to give birth, and I know how many years ago it was because that's my almost 24-year-old."

"So I remember that night and just the baby was moving so much because of the adrenaline that was coursing through my system. My husband, Warren Beatty, got a big award that night, so that's one that I'm remembering," she added.

She grew up accompanying her parents to sets and award shows

Ella Beatty Instagram Ella Beatty in a selfie on Instagram.

Ella may be a burgeoning star herself, but she grew up in her moms dressing rooms and on the set of her parents projects. She told Vogue that when she was a teenager, she visited her dad while he directed 2016s Rules Dont Apply.

Shes also been by her parents side on red carpets throughout her life, starting with the 27th Annual Kennedy Center Honors carpet in 2004 when she was just 4 years old. In 2016, she accompanied her parents to the 20th Century Women screening.

She graduated from The Juilliard School

Ella Beatty Instagram Ella Beatty celebrating New Years in 2024.

In May 2022, Ella graduated with a degree in drama from The Juilliard School as one of 18 students in her class. There, she was trained under legendary instructors who taught her that she was a vessel for a character, she told Vogue, meaning it was better for people to know less about who she was.

However, the best lesson she learned there was to always be ready, she told Womens Wear Daily in February 2024.

My favorite thing that they said to us there was stay ready so you dont gotta get ready,  she said.

Her parents have given her advice about navigating the acting industry

Bruce Glikas/WireImage Annette Bening and Ella Beatty backstage at the hit play "Appropriate" on Broadway on March 26, 2024 in New York City.

Growing up with actor parents meant that Ella always had people to turn to for advice as she dove into a career in acting. Most importantly, Ella told PEOPLE in January 2024, her mom always told her to "[be] kind, treat people with respect, work hard and be grateful."

She elaborated on the advice to Vogue, sharing that her mom always emphasized kindness above all, while her dad was strict about being on time.

Be kind  because therell always be someone more beautiful, more charming, more interesting. If you show up and be kind, it goes a long way, she said of her moms input.

Ella said that in addition to their words of wisdom, she also learned much of the art of acting from watching her parents work, down to how they prepared behind the scenes.

Just watching my mom backstage, watching how hard she works, even something like watching the way she memorizes her lines because thats how I learn my dialogue now, she told WWD.

Her first major project was Ryan Murphys Feud

John Nacion/Variety/Getty Ella Beatty at the premiere of "Feud: Capote vs. The Swans" on January 23, 2024 in New York City.

Ella put her training to use in her professional debut as Kerry OShea, Truman Capotes surrogate daughter, in Ryan Murphys Feud: Capote vs. The Swans.

She told Vogue that while the show was shooting in 2023, she would show up on set even when she wasnt scheduled to be just so she could watch and learn from her fellow actors. Ella added that Tom Hollander, who plays Capote, took her under his wing and helped her through her first professional gig.

He came to my dressing room privately  not in front of anybody else. He didnt want to, I think, embarrass me or make me feel like a newbie, she said. He was like, Do you want to run lines? Do you want to talk about the scene? Do you want to talk to each other? I think he had been tipped off that I was new, that I was jumping on a moving train.

She made her Broadway debut in March 2024

Bruce Glikas/Getty Ella Beatty making her broadway debut and Sarah Paulson during the curtain call as the new play "Appropriate" re-opens on Broadway on March 25, 2024 in New York City.

In March 2024, just two months after Feud debuted, Ella performed in her first Broadway production, Appropriate. The play, led by Sarah Paulson, centers around three siblings who come back to their late fathers Arkansas home to manage his estate.

The day after her debut, Ellas family came out in support of her. Her mom gave her a hug and kiss backstage and she posed with Annette and two of her siblings  Isabel and Stephen  in her dressing room.

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Disclaimer: This article contains mentions of murder and assault. Reader discretion is advised.

Netflixs Homicide: New York dropped its five-episode second season chronicling five infamous cases, one of which explores Arohn Kees case. The fifth and final episode, titled East Harlem Serial Killer, looks into his crimes that lasted for almost a decade, reported Forbes. Kee, the East Harlem rapist and serial killer, murdered at least three teenage girls and sexually assaulted multiple girls.

According to The New York Times, a jury convicted Arohn Kee of several murders and rapes. He had remained a suspect in the murders of Paola Illera in 1991, Johalis Castro in 1997, and Rasheeda Washington in 1998. The following year, detectives arrested him in Miami using his DNA. After this arrest, the DNA linked him to Washingtons murder and two other rapes.

Arohn Kee was convicted on 22 counts of murder, rape, sodomy, and robbery. He then received multiple life sentences as well as 400 years in prison. His prison terms include three life sentences for raping and asphyxiating 18-year-old Rasheda Washington and murdering Castro and Paola Illera.

When and How was Arohn Kee caught?

According to the United States Department of Justice, Arohn Kees crimes began in 1991 when he raped and murdered Paola Illera. The New York Times reported that Illera was only 13 years old when Kee strangled and raped the girl. Police found her body in an East Harlem apartment building. Kee lived in the same apartment building at the time. A few days later, authorities learned that Kee might have been the last person to see the victim alive.

Kee then murdered Johalis Castro, 19, shortly after she called him, in September 1997 in East Harlem. Per The New York Post, police found Castros still burning on an East 104th Street rooftop. A subsequent autopsy revealed lungs revealed that she was likely still alive when the killer set her on fire. Then, in June 1998, Kee murdered Rasheeda Washington, 17, who was a fashion student. Washington was found dead in the stairwell of a Harlem housing project.

The DOJ report stated that authorities had initially arrested Arohn Kee on an unrelated petty theft charge. However, he denied any involvement in the assaults and murders. Detectives, who were suspicious of him, tested DNA from a drinking cup he had used in jail. Then, using the DNA evidence, they were able to link him to the crime, which eventually resulted in his arrest and conviction.

Kee reportedly remained a suspect in the three murders and two other rapes of teenage girls until early 1999. In January of that year, investigators, via DNA testing, discovered that the same man killed Washington and raped two of the girls. The police formed a task force on the case, and after receiving a crucial tip, they arrested him at Miamis Sun Hotel in February. With him, they found Angelique Stallings unharmed.

Before his arrest, authorities believed Arohn Kee, who was a murder suspect, went into hiding in Manhattan. Police received information from Stallings parents after they saw Kees photograph in a newspaper article about the murder and rapes. The parents filed a missing persons report. They claimed to have last seen their daughter when Kee picked her up for a Valentines Day date.

In December 1999, a jury convicted Kee of 22 counts of murder, rape, sodomy, and robbery. In 2001, Kee received three life sentences without parole for the murders of Rasheda Washington, Johalis Castro, and Paola Illera. Later, in 2004, DNA linked him to the 1994 rape of another teenage victim, reported The Post. He got 400 additional years for the rapes of four victims.

Homicide: New York premiered on March 20, 2024, and is now available to stream on Netflix.

The post Who Is Arohn Kee & What Did He Do? Homicide: New York Looks into Notorious Killer appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. The resettlement of the first 50 families of former IDPs (internally displaced persons) to Azerbaijan's Khojaly city is scheduled for late May to June, after which this process will continue sequentially, the Head of the Khojaly District Executive Power Shahmar Usubov told reporters, Trend reports.

According to him, the city's population amounts to 8,400, and the Khojaly district's population - 17,000 people.

He noted that work is underway to demolish houses that cannot be rehabilitated.

"In Khojaly, work is underway on cleaning, reconstruction, and construction. The cleaning is nearing completion. Meanwhile, construction work is ongoing. Repairs, construction, and landscaping of around 5,000 houses are being carried out. Roads are being constructed, water and gas lines are being laid, and all utilities are laid," Usubov added.

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).

To recall, the Khojaly massacre took place in February 1992, when 613 Khojaly inhabitants were killed by Armenians, including 63 children, 106 women, and 70 elderly persons. 130 children lost one of their parents, while another 25 lost both. 76 of the 487 victims wounded by enemy bullets were youngsters. 1,275 Khojaly citizens were imprisoned, and 150 are missing.

As a result of the tragedy, Khojaly residents became IDPs and were temporarily relocated to 50 cities and regions of Azerbaijan.

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Filmed primarily in Oklahoma, the long-awaited movie "Reagan" is coming to theaters this summer.

Starring two-time Golden Globe nominee Dennis Quaid and Oscar winner Jon Voight, the biopic of the late U.S. President Ronald Reagan will open Aug. 30 in cinemas nationwide, according to a news release.

Were thrilled to congratulate the filmmakers of Reagan on their highly anticipated release, said Oklahoma Film + Music Office director Jeanette Stanton in an email to The Oklahoman. This production showcases an incredible amount of Oklahoma talent both on-screen and behind the scenes, and we cant wait to see their work come to life, including the transformative production design that brought the Oval Office, among other replicated sites, directly to the film friendly community of Guthrie.

Dennis Quaid stars as Ronald Reagan in the biopic "Reagan," which was primarily filmed in Oklahoma in 2020.

When and where in Oklahoma was the movie 'Reagan' filmed?

The biographical drama about America's 40th president began filming in the Oklahoma City and Guthrie areas in September 2020. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Oklahoma was one of the few states where filming on movies like "Reagan" could continue.

Were looking forward to sharing this movie with our friends in Oklahoma especially. It was an honor to shoot this movie there, and we had a great time in spite of COVID. I cant wait to shoot there again," said "Reagan" director Sean McNamara in a statement to The Oklahoman.

The production was headquartered in Guthrie, with filming centered at the historic Scottish Rite Masonic Temple, which stood in for the Oval Office at the White House, the fabled Cocoanut Grove supper club in Hollywood and even some locales in Cold War Russia.

"Guthrie as a community is really excited to see 'Reagan' on the big screen. The entire production was here in town for so long, it did feel like they became part of the neighborhood," Justin Fortney, director of tourism for the city of Guthrie, told The Oklahoman Monday.

"Whether it's Guthrie folks being extras, or someone's house being used in a scene, the Oklahoma Avenue streetscape, the Masonic temple ... it's like Guthrie is a character in the movie."

Although the production was forced to shut down twice due to COVID, the project, which used the state's film rebate, created 1,966 local jobs and generated $16.6 million in direct spending in fall 2020, according to the Oklahoma Film + Music Office.

The production moved to California in early 2021 to film at Reagan's ranch outside of Santa Barbara before returning to Guthrie in summer 2021 to shoot additional footage, including outdoor water sequences from the president's youth as well as John Hinckley Jr.'s 1981 assassination attempt on Reagan.

Dennis Quaid, left, appears as Ronald Reagan during filming of a scene from the upcoming biopic "Reagan" in Guthrie.

Who stars in 'Reagan' and how much of Ronald Reagan's life does the movie cover?

During a 2021 set visit in Guthrie, McNamara ("Soul Surfer," "The Miracle Season") told The Oklahoman that the support he found in the Sooner State was vital to making a movie that spans nine different time periods.

Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the biopic follows Ronald Reagan's life from his childhood in Dixon, Illinois, to his acting career in Hollywood, to the U.S. presidency and the world stage. Reagan served two terms as president, from 1981 to 1989, and died on June 5, 2004, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Quaid, who has made at least three movies in Oklahoma with "Reagan," 2018's "I Can Only Imagine" and 2021's "American Underdog," portrays Reagan as an adult. Tommy Ragen ("Mighty Oak," the musical "School of Rock") and David Henrie ("Wizards of Waverly Place") play Reagan as a boy and as a young man, respectively.

"It was one of the greatest challenges of my acting life. Sometimes in one day I'd have to play Reagan in 1947 and 1987, so I'd have to be very aware of that constantly," Quaid told The Oklahoman in a 2021 email.

Dennis Quaid, left, appears as Ronald Reagan during filming of a scene from the upcoming biopic "Reagan" in Guthrie.

Voight ("Deliverance," "Coming Home") co-stars as Viktor Petrovich, a fictional KGB agent who trails Reagan throughout his political career. "Reagan" begins as 90-year-old Petrovich  a composite character based on real people  is visited by an up-and-coming Russian leader who wants to know how the Soviet Union was lost.

The spy who knows everything there is to know about Reagan recounts the tale of his adversary  the man he mockingly nicknamed The Crusader"  beginning in 1922, when 11-year-old Ronald Reagan faces the first crisis of his eventful life.

The biopic also features Penelope Ann Miller as Reagan's first lady, Nancy Reagan; Mena Suvari as Reagan's first wife, Jane Wyman; Lesley-Anne Down as British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher; and Kevin Dillon as Warner Bros. co-founder Jack Warner.

Several Oklahoma performers played roles in the film, including Darci Lynne, Darryl Cox, Kyle Jacob Henry, Chris Freihofer, Randy Wayne, Rachel Cannon and Maggie McClure and Shane Henry.

"Reagan" is inspired by Paul Kengor's book "The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism" and written by Howard Klausner ("Space Cowboys") and Jonas McCord ("Ask the Dust").

Why was 'Reagan' delayed and who is releasing the long-awaited movie in theaters?

Producer Mark Joseph told The Oklahoman in an autumn 2022 email that the film's extensive post-production  especially de-aging special effects for Quaid and Voight  would mean a 2023 release for "Reagan."

But after two shutdowns for COVID-19, the film faced additional delays during last year's actors strike, Deadline reports.

The film's long-awaited Aug. 30 release date was announced after producers reached a distribution agreement with recently launched U.S. distributor ShowBiz Direct.

Dennis Quaid, center, appears as Ronald Reagan during filming of a scene from the upcoming biopic "Reagan" in Guthrie.

"Reagan" will mark the first wide release from ShowBiz Direct, led by Kevin Mitchell, founder and former CEO of ShowBiz Cinemas; Richie Fay, former president of distribution for Lionsgate; and Scott Kennedy, former co-president of distribution for Open Road.

According to Deadline, the new theatrical and digital distribution company, which is based in Dallas and Los Angeles, plans to specialize in mid-size and tentpole releases that may not fit into the major studios' post-pandemic plans.

"I've had my eyes on this movie for a while," Mitchell said in a statement. "Dennis Quaid does such an amazing job portraying Ronald Reagan. Our goal in launching ShowBiz Direct is to help close the gap between the creative community and exhibition while embracing the theatrical release of motion pictures in a very transparent way. 'Reagan' was sought by many, and we are happy that we could reach an agreement with Mark Joseph and his team.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: 'Reagan' movie filmed in Oklahoma to be released in the summer
The Cannes Film Festival is leaning into the rise of multilingual adaptations of buzzy European films.

The festival unveiled the launch of Cannes Remakes, set to debut at the upcoming film market edition from May 14 to 22. The Marche du Film  Festival de Cannes, in partnership with the CNC  French National Center of Cinema and Moving Images, will spotlight a handpicked selection of the finest European intellectual property (IP) titles, ready to be remade into new film adaptations. The program is made with the support and collaboration of the Institute of Cinematography & Audiovisual Arts (ICAA) and the Directorate General for Cinema and Audiovisual-Italian Ministry of Culture (DGCA-MiC) and Cinecitta.

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Remakes are injecting a fresh dynamism into the film industry, hinting at a notable shift. We are excited to support this evolution through Cannes Remakes, Guillaume Esmiol, Executive Director of the Marche du Film, said. Its not just about English-language remakes; theres a rising trend of adaptations across various languages. Audiences are drawn to narratives that resonate with their distinct cultural nuances, paving the way for diverse, global storytelling. We aim to expand the IP market in Cannes and create a platform where IP holders can engage with producers and IP buyers, unlocking potential business opportunities.

The Cannes Remakes program is designed to tap into the thriving IP market, which has seen tremendous growth, largely driven by the increased investment from global streaming services, per the official press release. Film remakes, in particular, have established themselves as a lucrative venture in the marketplace as they offer lower risk and proven marketability.

The program harnesses the rising trend in remakes by showcasing pre-existing IPs, which have already proven successful in their initial territories, and by facilitating connections between international buyers and producers.

Jeremie Kessler, Director of European & International Affairs at the CNC said of the program, The international trend towards IP, which is particularly evident with American studios and buyers from Asia, now appears to be a structuring factor. It is thus important for the CNC to launch this programme with the Marche du Film. This programm fits in with our massive support for exports but also our strategic priority of defending strategic cultural assets and promoting European IP. For it is these IPs that create value for producers, international sellers and companies, and make it possible to support truly free and independent European creation.

Cannes Remakes is part of the Marche du Films new initiatives, supported by Creative Europe MEDIA. The inaugural program will include a pitching session, presenting a curated selection of IP titles sourced from France, Spain, and Italy with the most potential for film adaptation. This will be followed by a pre-arranged series of one-to-one meetings and culminate with a networking cocktail event for invited guests. The half-day event will take place during the Marche du Film on Monday, May 20 on the CNC Beach.

The 2024 Cannes Film Festival has yet to unveil its full lineup, but George Millers Mad Max: Fury Road prequel Furiosa will have its world premiere at the festival. Yorgos Lanthimos Kinds of Kindness is also predicted to be on the program.

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This is a Hallmark story if there ever was one, Ken Steinkamp, 75, told 'USA Today.'

Getty Stock image of shell with pearl

A couple who found a pearl inside a clam while on a date years ago has turned the gemstone into a precious piece of jewelry.

Ken Steinkamp and Sandy Sikorski were dining at a Rhode Island restaurant in December 2021 when Sikorski, 70, ate a clam that had a little something extra in it  a pearl. Although the eatery, Broad Restaurant, is now closed, the pairs memory from that meal lives on.

This is a Hallmark story if there ever was one, Steinkamp, 75, told USA Today.

Sikorski said a year-and-a-half later, she and her soon-to-be husband used the pearl for an engagement ring. She also said her story has become known in the small beach town, and people even come up to her when they see her wearing it.

I am surprised every single time somebody says, I know about this ring,  Sikorski said. Its hard to go unnoticed because it's white and people are looking for a diamond. 

Getty Stock image of pearl ring

Both divorced, the couple met on a dating app in 2018.

Related: Bride's Father Refused to Attend Her LGBTQ+ Wedding. Then Her Brothers Stepped In with Sweet Surprise (Exclusive)

On April 14, Sikorski and Steinkamp will tie the knot in a small wedding of 27 people at Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island. The story of the pearl will be present in the celebration: the cake will have pearls surrounding the base, the wedding party will wear pearl jewelry and Sikorskis granddaughter will be flaunting pearl shoes.

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.

During their wedding cake tasting in the beginning of March, the couple once again found a surprise pearl in their food. Hannah Bontempo, the catering and sales manager at Ocean House, said the chef made them a chocolate clam with a pearl inside.

Getty Stock image of man and woman with pearl ring.

I had shared the story of their ring, Bontempo told the outlet. I was sharing that with our pastry chef so when they came for their cake tasting, she wanted to make it a little bit more special for them.

At the boutique wedding, Sikorski said she hopes her father, who has been sick in the hospital, can be there to walk her down the aisle.

He said Im not going to miss it,  Sikorski recalled.

Steinkamp added: One of the challenges of doing this is not only the cost and the timing but it's the organization around her father, he said. "It's the coordination of that and allowing us some time away. Sandy's been because she's the oldest, she's been the main caretaker for mother and father for many years.

After the ceremony, the couple will jet off to Europe for their three-week honeymoon.



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Read the original article on People.
War is coming in Shogun. It's not a secret. The exciting FX drama series, which is set in 17th-century feudal Japan, keeps foreshadowing bloodshed. At the end of episode 4, Mariko (Anna Sawai) flat-out states, "It is war." Now, if you're a history buff, you already know that this period in Japanese history erupts into one of the country's deadliest battles. So, in episode 6, when Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) discusses a raid on Osaka Castle that he dubs "Crimson Sky"we can guess what that means.

Though Toranaga's trusted advisors do not discuss the specifics, it's clear from their conversation that the battle plan is mapped and codenamed. The best way to think of "Crimson Sky" is to compare it to "Operation Neptune"the allied naval invasion of Normandy during World World II. It's just a codename meant to get everyone on the same pageeven if the secret plan's obvious name somewhat gives it away. Operation Neptune? Yeah, I bet that one takes place at sea. Crimson Sky? Probably means we're going to see red. Maybe mafia movies were right to just call every task... the thing.

Shogun is based on James Clavell's 1975 novel of the same name, which dramatically recontextualizes the rise of the Tokugawa Shogunate following the Battle of Sekigahara. In Japanese history, it's highly unlikely that TokugawaToranaga's real-life counterpartcharged Osaka with the name "Crimson Sky" in mind. I'm not sure how easily it translates, but there's no record of the great lord giving a codename to his plans. "Crimson Sky" certainly evokes a certain mood, but any spy who reported to his enemies that Tokugawa was planning "Crimson Sky" could probably figure out what that meant for them. There's a non-zero chance that Toranaga is just really excited to play Crimson Skies: High Road to Revengethe high-flying arcade video game from 2003but that won't debut on Xbox for another 400 years.

Where Shogun excelsoutside of dreaming up cool namesis in its ability to show how to stay in power once it's yours. Anyone in this time period an just gather an army and waste them away on an offensive assault. Toranaga has bigger plans than that. He's vying for the shogunate. The only way to earn the 260-year-long reign that his name is so famous for? It's to make sure that Japan actually wants him to step in and take over. But don't get me wrong, people"Crimson Sky" will still be more than worth the wait.

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Whats the biggest documentary festival in the world? The International Documentary Festival Amsterdam. For now.

Upstart CPH:DOX in Copenhagen aims to overtake IDFA as the top showcase for nonfiction film worldwide. On the new episode of Deadlines Doc Talk podcast, we sit down with CPH:DOX Artistic Director Niklas Engstrm for a conversation about the growth of the festival in the Danish capital and how he aims to make it No. 1.

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Engstrm argues that CPH:DOX has been central to the emergence of Denmark as one of the most important hubs for documentary on the planet. Its a country of less than 6 million that has produced a remarkable number of Oscar-nominated documentary directors and producers in recent years, including Signe Byrge Srensen, Monica Hellstrom, Simon Lereng Wilmont, Jonas Rasmussen, Sigrid Dyekjr and Kirstine Barfod.

In our report from the field at CPH:DOX, we also talk with filmmaker Benjamin Ree about Ibelin, his documentary about a Norwegian teenager named Mats Steen who developed a profound connection and identity in the online role-playing game World of Warcraft. His fellow players had no idea the avatar they knew as Ibelin was in fact a young man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a degenerative condition that would take Steens life at age 25.

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And director Connie Field joins Doc Talk to talk about the world premiere of her documentary Democracy Noir, which examines resistance to the autocratic rule of Viktor Orban in Hungary. Orban has become a darling of the right-wing in the U.S. for his campaign against elites, but Field says his systematic efforts to seize control of the media and the judiciary in his country make the Hungarian leader a dangerous role model. And she discusses political developments in Hungary and the European Union that could be welcome news for Donald Trump as he attempts to re-take the presidency.

Thats on the new episode of Doc Talk, co-hosted by 12 Years a Slave Oscar winner John Ridley and Deadlines Documentary Editor Matt Carey. Doc Talk is a production of Deadline and Ridleys No Studios.

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Disney has reached a settlement with the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, ending a legal battle over a special tax district that the House of Mouse effectively controlled for over five decades that was taken over by the state last year.

The settlement will see the two parties drop all lawsuits filed against each other and negotiate a new development agreement related to the 40-mile area that includes its Orlando theme parks.

The legal battle was sparked after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill last year which allowed him to take control of Disneys Reedy Creek Improvement District with his own handpicked board. The move, which renamed it to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, followed a public feud between Disney and the state over the controversial Dont Say Gay law, which limits classroom instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation.

Disney proceeded to sue DeSantis for violating its First Amendment rights by retaliating against the company for contesting the law. A day prior to the legislation, it also crafted a last-minute deal that would allow it to retain its development powers, prompting the CFTOD to sue in court, arguing it wasnt given proper notice to contest it. In January, Disneys lawsuit was dismissed by a judge, which the company appealed.

Under Wednesdays settlement, Disney will not challenge the CFTODs determination that the 2023 comprehensive plan and amendments to the districts land development regulations are null and void, leaving the 2020 comprehensive plan as the operative plan.

The District shall resolve to begin immediately to review, evaluate, and amend the 2020 Comprehensive Plan pursuant to its statutory obligations and shall consult with Disney and any other appropriate parties during the process, the settlement states.

Disney will also seek permission from a federal appeals court to pause its effort to revive the dismissed retaliation lawsuit against DeSantis pending negotiations among other matters of a new development agreement between Disney and the District.

We are pleased to put an end to all litigation pending in state court in Florida between Disney and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle said in a statement. This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the State.

The post Disney, Florida Settle Lawsuit Over Special District Fight appeared first on TheWrap.
New Hampshire Art Association presents 'Dreamscapes'

Alice Picking Daisies, oil on canvas by Fleur Palau

PORTSMOUTH  The New Hampshire Art Association presents Dreamscapes, a visual journey through images of hope and tranquility personified in land, sea, and humans, by New Hampshire artist Fleur Palau. Soothing and gentle, Dreamscapes provides an environment for introspection through Palaus dream world. This upcoming exhibit promises to be a celebration of the human spirit, where art becomes a vessel for conveying the profound emotions of hope and serenity.

This exhibition will be displayed at the Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery, 136 State St., Portsmouth, from April 3-28. Join us for an opening reception on April5 from 5 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m.

New Hampshire Art Association presents 'Habitat: Haven: Home'

Among the Leaves, fiber collage by Cheryl Miller

PORTSMOUTH  The New Hampshire Art Association presents Habitat: Haven: Home, an exploration of what home means to the creatures of the world using fabric collage. Habitat refers to a creature's natural environment, a haven is a place of refuge and safety, and home is a domestic center, Miller states. The artwork narrates the playful interaction between animals and nature, sparking contemplation on the factors that provide solace.

Habitat: Haven: Home will be displayed at the Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery, 136 State St., Portsmouth, from April 3-28. Join us for an opening reception on April5, from 5 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m.

Portsmouth Pro Musica announces upcoming April concerts

PORTSMOUTH  This April, Portsmouth Pro Musica, under the artistic direction of Priscilla Stevens French, will conclude the groups 39th season, with a program entitled American Landscapes. PPM will be joined in the performance by accompanist Adelyn Nelson, soloist Neal Ferreira, and fiddle.

The cornerstone piece of the fifteen-song program is Cloud Anthem, written by Oliver Caplan with text from a poem by Richard Blanco. In addition, the program will feature three Shaker works arranged by Kevin Siegfried, three pieces by composer Shawn Kirchner, several African American spirituals and other American works spanning the years.

Neal Ferreira

Praised for his rich, powerful voice and bravura-filled stage presence, Neal Ferreira is a nationally recognized lyric tenor known for his cultivated vocalism and eloquent expression. Dubbed a Boston mainstay by the Boston Globe, he recently appeared with Boston Lyric Opera in the New England premiere of Rhiannon Giddens and Michael Abels Pulitzer Prize-winning opera, Omar (Auctioneer/Taylor). The tenor regularly appears with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and returns in 2024 for performances of Lady MacBeth of Mtsensk at Symphony Hall and Carnegie Hall, under the baton of Maestro Andris Nelsons. In a professional career spanning two decades, Ferreira has appeared with an array of companies including Florida Grand Opera, the Glimmerglass Festival, Opera Colorado, Virginia Opera, Anchorage Opera, Syracuse Opera, American Repertory Theatre, Handel and Haydn Society, Odyssey Opera, Boston Modern Orchestra Project, Emmanuel Music, and Guerilla Opera.

Performances will be held on Friday, April 12, 7:30 p.m. at Christ Church, 43 Pine St., Exeter, and Sunday, April 14, at 3 p.m. at South Church, 292 State St., Portsmouth. Advance tickets can be purchased at www.ppmnh.org. Advance: $15; Student/Seniors $13. At the door: $20; Students/Seniors $15. All tickets are general admission and can be used at either performance.

April at the Franklin Gallery

Ard Roag, Two Shores a painting by artist Sherry Palmer

ROCHESTER  The Franklin Gallery at RiverStones Custom Framing, 33 North Main St., in Rochester, presents A Selection of Paintings from the Isle of Skye, an exhibition featuring a series of works by local Rochester artist Sherry Palmer. The exhibit will be on display during the month of April. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, April 4, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be served and the public is invited to attend.

On the Isle of Skye, on the Northwest coast of Scotland, Palmer found the perfect catalyst for how she enjoys painting: vast vistas uncluttered by poles or buildings, bold shapes, the bones of the land that in New England she can only see in winter when the leaves are gone. Theatrical light and moving mist continually redefine the structure of the land. From one hillside studio, I can see ten islands, a mountain range of black rock, several shorelines, and a sky on its own worthy of a painting, says Palmer. One mountain, Benin Sgritheall, has been my focus for the last several years.

RiverStones Custom Framing and the Franklin Gallery are open Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. For information about this exhibit and other RiverStones events and services, call Kris at 603-812-1488 or visit the RiverStones website or Facebook page.

Crime Writers On podcast plans live show in Exeter

The podcasters of Crime Writers On are coming to Exeter to record a live show at the Word Barn on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

EXETER  The podcasters of Crime Writers On, which recently marked their 500th episode, are coming to Exeter to record a live show at the Word Barn.

Named as one of the Top 10 true crime podcasts to listen to after Serial by Rolling Stone Magazine, Crime Writers On is the original true crime review podcast. The live show is set for Saturday, April 6 at 8 p.m. and is an adjacent event to the Exeter LitFest taking place that weekend.

The crime writers will discuss Death and Other Details, a mystery drama recently featured on Hulu, during the live show. A meetup will follow. During the event, guests will learn how four New Hampshire crime writers become part of a podcast with a global audience.

Tickets to the event are available via The Word Barns website.

NH Fiddle Ensemble presents 2024 Concert Season

SEACOAST  The NH Fiddle Ensemble, a local nonprofit, announce concerts for their 2024 season:

Friday, May 3, 6:30 p.m. at the Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St., Rochester

Saturday, May 4, 6:30 p.m., at Star Theatre, 120 Rogers Road, Kittery, Maine

Saturday, May 18, 6:30 p.m., at Exeter Town Hall, 9 Front St., Exeter

The 15th year for the ensemble brings together another dedicated group of over 140 people ages 989. This community orchestra of fiddles, guitars, banjos, mandolins, basses, harps, cellos and even some horns are backed by professionals delivering a heartwarming and energetic performance.

For tickets, go to: https://www.nhfiddleensemble.org/concerts/.

3S Artspace presents a multi-perspective exploration of concrete: Unfixed Concrete Ideal

PORTSMOUTH  3S Artspace announces its spring exhibition, Unfixed Concrete Ideal, running from April 5 to June 2. An opening reception and opportunity to meet the curator and artists will be held Friday, April 5, from 5 to 8 p.m. at 319 Vaughan St., Portsmouth, and is free and open to the public. For more information about the exhibition and related events, visit www.3sarts.org.

3S Artspace & RGC Theatre present 'Ordinary Days'

RGC Theatre and 3S Artspace announce the upcoming limited run of Adam Gwon's acclaimed musical, Ordinary Days, at 3S Artspace.

PORTSMOUTH  RGC Theatre and 3S Artspace announce the upcoming limited run of Adam Gwon's acclaimed musical, Ordinary Days, at 3S Artspace, 319 Vaughan St., Portsmouth. The production will unfold over three performances, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the lives of four ordinary New Yorkers as they navigate the bustling streets of the city.

Performance dates and times: Friday, April 19 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, April 21 at 2 p.m.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit 3sarts.org.

Greg West Photography wins recognition from international judges

Passing Storm, a dusk image of the Zakim Bridge following a rainstorm by Greg West Photography

SOMERSWORTH  Architecture MasterPrize announced its 2023 winners, recognizing Greg West Photographys Passing Storm, a dusk image of the Zakim Bridge following a rainstorm, with an Honorable Mention in the Exterior Architectural Photography Category.

Architecture MasterPrize is an international architecture award. The prize celebrates excellence, innovation and creativity in Architecture, Interior Design, Urban Planning, Architectural Product Design, and Architectural Photography.

For over 25 years Greg West Photography (GWP) has been working with Commercial and Residential Architects, Builders and Interior Designers aiding their marketing efforts with amazing images of their projects. GWP works with clients throughout the Northeast and beyond.

Gregwestphotography.com | 603.740.9451 | Instagram: @gregwestphotography_ | delise@gregwestphotography.com

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Exhibits, galleries, theater and more: Seacoast arts and culture news
The ten film programmers who led a mass exodus this week out of Canadas Hot Docs Film Festival have said a toxic workplace environment was the central issue behind their public exit.

In a joint statement shared across social media platforms, the ten programmers, including Senior International Programmer Myrocia Watamaniuk, said: We consider ourselves to be one of the most principled, process-driven programming teams in the business, and we were unable, this year, to carry out that process.

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They continued to say the once welcoming programming environment at Hot Docs had recently turned into a toxic workplace due to a lack of respect for business communication, team members voices not being heard and/or being dismissed, and contracts breached across various programmes.

We were expected to work in an ever-changing, chaotic, unprofessional and discriminatory environment, the letter read.

The signatories said that programming team members approached HR, Senior Management, the President and then the Board with their concerns. The letter states that there was an effort by all parties in the matter to work together until what they describe as public transparency around gender discrimination, cultural dismissal, and mismanagement of the process was denied.

In order to keep a world-class event and documentary touchstone like Hot Docs relevant and thriving, the programming team believes it must be kept accountable and transparent, the letter states.

The letter ends with the programming team expressing support for this years Hot Docs film program.

The open letter followed after a festival spokesperson confirmed to Deadline earlier this week that Hussain Currimbhoy was out as Artistic Director. In a statement to us this morning, the festival shared a response to the allegations laid out in the letter.

The festival said: Hussain stepped down from his role as Artistic Director on March 20th due to personal reasons. Hot Docs is not in a position to comment on internal personnel matters due to a variety of confidentiality concerns. As was stated at this mornings press conference by President Marie Nelson and Director of Festival Programming Heather Haynes, we are holding the door open for any programmers who would like to return this year or for future festivals.

This years Hot Docs Documentary Festival is set to open on April 25 and run through May 5.

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Created by Kenya Barris and Larry Wilmore, Grown-ish is a Freeform teen comedy series. The first spin-off to Barris Black-ish. The plot revolves around Zoey Johnson and later her brother Aaron Jackson as they navigate college and new adulthood. The series premiered on January 3, 2018, and garnered positive responses. Season 6, like all previous seasons except the first, was split into two parts. Part 1 debuted on June 28, 2023, and part 2 on March 27, 2024. Curious about Grown-ish Season 7 Release Date? This is everything we have learned.

Heres all we know about Grown-ish Season 7 and whether or not its coming out.

Is there a Grown-ish Season 7 release date?

There is no Grown-ish Season 7 release date as the series is slated to conclude after the sixth season.

In March 2023, Freeform announced that the upcoming sixth season of Grown-ish would also serve as its last. Series co-creator Kenya Barris said in a statement, Weve spent nearly a decade telling our stories through the -ish series and to say it has been an amazing journey would be an understatement. To be able to watch Yara, Marcus and our entire grown-ish family grow up in front of (and in many ways alongside) us over these past several years has been both a joy and an honor.

The statement continued, From the stories weve told to the talent weve fostered and, most importantly, the memories made, I could not be more proud of everything weve accomplished and the -ish family Ive been a part of.

The cast of Grown-ish includes Yara Shahidi as Zoey Johnson, Trevor Jackson as Aaron Jackson, Diggy Simmons as Douglas Doug Frederick Edwards, Marcus Scribner as Andre Junior Johnson, and Daniella Perkins as Kiela Hall. Justine Skye as Annika Longstreet and Tara Raani as Zaraa Ali are also part of the cast.

Why Grown-ish Season 7 isnt happening

Grown-ish Season 7 isnt coming out because, as mentioned, the series will end after six seasons. ComingSoon will provide an update if circumstances change, and there is an official announcement about the seventh season of Grown-ish.

The official synopsis for Grown-ish reads:

Zoey Johnson heads to college and begins her hilarious journey to adulthood but quickly discovers that not everything goes her way once she leaves the nest.

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Here are the Georgia Department of Health's restaurant inspection scores for Athens-Clarke and Oconee counties conducted Mar. 13-26. Scores in each category are listed in order of most recent inspection date.

The Georgia Department of Public Health, Environmental Health Section, conducts regular restaurant inspections to help keep residents and visitors safe.

Disclaimer: On any given day, an establishment may have fewer or more violations than noted in their most recent inspection. An inspection conducted on any given day may not be representative of the overall, long-term conditions at the establishment. A few more recent, follow-up inspections may not be included here.

The Strawberita at Puma Yus and with strawberry syrup made from strawberries from Lady Bird and Diamond Hill Farms and a rim of Pet Pet flower power. Puma Yus offers a variety of margaritas such as spicy, tamarind and the Strawberita.

Athens-Clarke County: Perfect scores

JOHNNIE LAY BURKS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (757 NORTH CHASE ST)

HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON ATHENS (750 E BROAD ST)

LITTLE BLUE MENU FOOD TRUCK (1870 BARNETT SHOALS RD)

FOLEY FIELD BB1 ARAMARK (E RUTHERFORD ST)

W.R. COILE MIDDLE SCHOOL (110 OLD ELBERTON RD)

PREACHER GREEN'S (1995 BARNETT SHOALS RD)

Drink Athens: We tried all of the mocktails on this bar's 'zero proof' beverage menu

Athens-Clarke County: High to average scores

WENDY'S (415 PRINCE AVE): 94

FARM CART (1074 BAXTER ST): 96

LOCO'S GRILL AND PUB (2020 TIMOTHY RD): 91

QUALITY INN & SUITES (2715 ATLANTA HWY): 90

SIRI THAI CUISINE (1040 GAINES SCHOOL RD STE 211): 94

PUMA YU'S (355 ONETA ST STE D-400A): 94

FIVE STAR PILGRIMS ATHENS DEBONE CAFETERIA (898 BARBER ST): 98

POPEYES LOUISIANA KITCHEN (3160 ATLANTA HWY): 92

CHINA 1 (2026 S MILLEDGE AVE STE D4): 93

THE CAFE ON LUMPKIN (1700 S LUMPKIN ST): 99

WINGATE BY WINDHAM HOTEL (255 NORTH AVE): 96

THE PLACE (229 E BROAD ST): 95

SAINT MARY'S HEALTH CARE SYSTEM (1230 BAXTER ST): 91

DONDEROS' (590 N MILLEDGE AVE): 96

THE JUICY CRAB (2361 W BROAD ST): 90

TLALOC (1225 N CHASE ST): 95

SLEEP INN & SUITES (109 FLORENCE DR): 99

TACO BELL #30595 (2197 W BROAD ST): 95

INOKO EXPRESS (3190 ATLANTA HWY STE 7): 98

TAQUERIA TSUNAMI (320 E CLAYTON ST): 99

DQ GRILL & CHILL (900 US HWY. 29 N): 96

TAQUERIA LA PARRILLA (2439 JEFFERSON RD): 95

LA PA ON WHEELS (2439 JEFFERSON RD): 95

TME ENTERPRISES D.B.A. TACO BELL (3196 ATLANTA HWY): 98

Previous inspections: Employee's hair causes trouble at downtown Athens sandwich shop

Athens-Clarke County: Low scores and why

IRON WORKS CAFE @ THE GRADUATE ATHENS HOTEL (295 E DOUGHERTY ST): 85. Inspection notes: "Employee not wearing effective hair restraint during food handling. Single-service utensils stored at self-service table with handles facing down and away from customers."

DUNKIN DONUTS (771 PRINCE AVE): 89. Inspection notes: "Mold growth observed in cavity of ice maker at front area. Coffee filters stored without protection on top of coffee brewer. Missing floor drain grate in men's restroom."

MELLOW MUSHROOM (320 E CLAYTON ST): 87. Inspection notes: "Menu reminder and disclosure for undercooked foods not correct. Employees wearing bracelets during food preparation. Food pans stacked wet after washing. Dish machine racks stored on floor in wash room. Food contact surfaces of wrapped silverware exposed during storage. Dust and food debris accumulation on fan guards in walk-in (WI)."

BARBERITOS (680 N 29 HWY STE 250): 88. Inspection notes: "Sanitation agent not the same in wash and sanitize step for cleaning dining room tables (Dawn soap used for wash step and Quat used for sanitation step). Thermometer not sanitized in between uses at prep table - thermometer was only washed off. No handwashing sign in women's restroom used by employees notifying employees to wash hands. Bowl used as scoop in bulk sugar container with no handle. Ice scoop stored on top if ice machine not protected. Observed stacks of clear bins stacked wet on clean dish shelf over prep table. Multiple clear bins have cracked/chipped lids throughout establishment. All air vents in back kitchen have heavy dust buildup. Missing ceiling tile over door of walk-in cooler. Wet mop stored in mop bucket - not hung to dry."

ST. MARY'S COFFEE SHOP (1230 BAXTER ST): 89. Inspection notes: "Storage of brushes in hand wash sink. Food probe thermometer not sanitized before each use. Employee cell phone storage on work surface."

MAEPOLE (1021 N CHASE ST): 89. Inspection notes: "Gasket fraying on right hot cabinet. Prep cooler not keeping TCS foods at 41F or less."

CHUCK E. CHEESE'S (3654 ATLANTA HWY STE I): 83. Inspection notes: "Hand towels not available for use at hand sink located near pizza dough press in kitchen. Mold growth observed in ice machine cavity. Employees not wearing effective hair restraint during food handling. Employee hand washing sign not posted in restroom. Employee cell phone stored on pizza make table."

Oconee County: Perfect score

KROGER # 435 - STARBUCKS (1720 EPPS BRIDGE PKWY)

Oconee County: Low scores and why

AMICI (8851 MACON HWY STE 501): 91. Inspection notes: "Observed numerous jug type containers of sauces and dressings without proper labels (content, prep date, discard date). Observed raw wood liquor shelves with staining from leaks. Need to paint/seal raw wood. Also need to raise lowest shelf to at least 6" off floor. Observed accumulations of grease/oils on bulk oil tanks. Observed accumulations of grease, oils, dust, debris and ice (WI Freezer) on floors of kitchen and storage areas. Observed accumulations of debris on/in light shield of WIcooler. Observed accumulations of grease, oils, flour and dust on ceiling vents of kitchen, dish and storage areas."

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Health inspections: Employee cell phones found on food surfaces
Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has announced that it has signed an agreement with Medlog, the logistics arm of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), to establish an integrated logistics park within Jeddah Islamic Port at an investment of SAR175 million ($46.6 million).

The logistics park, which will come up on 100,000 sq m area, includes a comprehensive service site for the maintenance and inspection of empty and full containers, providing 400 direct and indirect job opportunities to qualify the national workforce in the logistics services sector.

It will contribute to increasing the number of handled containers equivalent to two million TEUs over the next ten years besides enhancing trade movement and ensuring supply chains in line with the targets of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS), to solidify the Kingdoms standing as a global logistics hub bridging the three continents.

The park includes a comprehensive service site for the maintenance and inspection of empty and full containers, providing 400 direct and indirect job opportunities to qualify the national workforce in the logistics services sector, as well as contributing to the preservation of port environment safety through the use of alternative energy to reduce carbon emissions, said senior officials at the signing ceremony held in the presence of Omar Hariri, the President of Mawani, and Hisham Al Ansari, the CEO of Medlog Saudi Arabia.

The park, they stated, aims to link the western regions of the kingdom to the southern regions; and to facilitate the export of goods from these regions to abroad across King Abdullah Port in Rabigh province.

In addition to providing high-quality, comprehensive and integrated logistics services, facilitating the needs of beneficiaries, and meeting the requirements of the local market in terms of transporting and handling goods with high operational capabilities, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. A presentation of the Alyans.org.az website, established by Azerbaijan's Public Association of Veterans of Special Services 'Alliance' has taken place, Trend reports.

The association's chairman Fakhri Abbasov noted at the presentation ceremony that the launch of such an information resource on the eve of the professional holiday of special service personnel is of great significance.

"The main goal and objective of the Alyans.org.az website are to popularize and promote association activities, the history of Azerbaijan's security agencies, and the role of the service in ensuring the state's security. The Alliance began its activities in 2002 and was registered by the Ministry of Justice in May 2004. This year marks our 20th anniversary. Support from the State Security Service is crucial for the active work of the Alliance, and we'll continue our activities successfully.

Our country pays great attention to veterans of security agencies. Tomorrow we celebrate our professional holiday, our 105th anniversary. I sincerely congratulate each of you, the leadership of the State Security Service, personally Ali Naghiyev, and the entire team of the Service, on the occasion of our professional holiday," Abbasov said.

The Alliance's Honorary Chairman Shamil Suleymanov pointed out in his speech that the purpose of creating the association is to draw attention to veterans.

"Currently, the number of association members is about 700. Significant work is being done for veterans; anniversaries are celebrated, and veterans and the State Security Service highly welcome our activities," he explained.

Deputy Chairman of the Alliance Ali Orujov also spoke about the association's activities.

He emphasized that in 1967, the national leader Heydar Aliyev was the first Azerbaijani citizen appointed to the position of Chairman of the Committee for State Security of Azerbaijan.

"After that, the situation completely changed. Previous leaders of the Committee for State Security were representatives of other nationalities, and there was a different attitude towards Azerbaijanis; they were not appointed to positions. However, the great leader Heydar Aliyev changed the situation, and a new stage began in the history of the security agencies: the promotion of national cadres," Orujov reminded.

In his speech, Alliance member Elshad Hasanov noted that great attention is paid to veterans of security agencies.

He added that the Alliance promotes the policy pursued by the Azerbaijani state.

"From now on, the activities of the association will be reflected on the alyans.org.az website," Hasanov said.

Another Alliance member, Hamlet Ismayilov, who spoke next, talked about the activities of security agencies.

He noted that security agencies, by showing vigilance, successfully ensure the security of Azerbaijan and will continue to do so in the future.

The Us section of the alyans.org.az website contains information about the chairpersons of the Alliance Public Association.

The National Heroes section reflects information about Azerbaijan's National Heroes who worked in special services.

The Our Activities section contains information about events organized by the public association.

Another section that will be of great interest to readers is the Anti-terrorism and Security Issues scientific-information bulletin, published by the editorial board of the public association.

The Legislation section is familiar with the law of Azerbaijan on non-governmental organizations (public associations and foundations).

The News section contains news based on information from Trend News Agency about important events in the socio-political life of the country, as well as official press releases from the State Security Service.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Disclaimer: The article contains mentions of murder. Reader discretion is advised.

Netflixs true crime series Homicide: New York re-examines the gruesome murder case of Michael McMorrow that took place in 1997. The episode, titled Central Park Slaying, unravels the mystery behind one of the most brutal slayings. It also reveals how investigators caught two teenagers in the murder case. The true crime series is currently available to stream on Netflix.

In May 1997, police discovered the dead body of the real estate agent Michael McMorrow in the lake in Central Park, New York. According to The New York Times, officers found cuts and wounds on the victims body. Meanwhile, the series noted that McMorrow had 30 stab wounds across his body, including six stab wounds to the heart. Authorities learned about the suspects after a 911 call, per The New York Times. After investigators traced the call, they reached the house.

As per The New York Times, a teenager named Daphne Abdela called the emergency and informed that one of her friends jumped into the lake and didnt come out. Police noted that Abdela was faking hysteria during the interrogation. After the investigation and finding strong evidence, police apprehended Abdela and Christopher Vasquez for the murder of Michael McMorrow. The New York Times reported that Abdela pleaded guilty to manslaughter. On the other hand, the jury found Vasquez guilty of first-degree manslaughter.

The true crime series noted that the court sent both culprits to prison for Michael McMorrows murder. However, they were reportedly released from prison in 2004.

Did Daphne Abdela return to prison after getting out on parole?

After serving six years of their sentence, the court released Daphne Abdela and Christopher Vasquez from the prison. However, as per the true crime series Homicide: New York, Abdela returned to serving her jail time after violating her parole. The series suggested that Abdela assaulted one of the residents of a halfway house. As a result, the culprit in Michael McMorrows murder case went back to prison and served a full term.

Meanwhile, Christopher Vasquez has maintained a low profile after getting out of prison. As of now, little is known about his whereabouts. However, the series claims that Vasquez hasnt committed any crime since getting out of prison for the murder of Michael McMorrow.

Homicide: New York is currently streaming on Netflix.

The post Homicide: New York: When Were Michael McMorrows Killers Released From Prison? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
TEL AVIV  The hostages in Gaza are present everywhere in Tel Aviv. Photos of the missing 134 people hang from street corners, park benches, restaurants, private yards and show up on the home screen of the Hertz rental car agency.

Even as the hum of life goes on in this famously energetic city, with electric bikes and scooters whooshing past at breakneck speed, Bring Them Home Now is ubiquitous as a sign of the obsessive worry hanging over Israel. In recent days it has given way to the newer, more urgent phrase added to the backdrop of city life, Get Them Out of Hell! And on billboards with his picture, a menacing warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: Youre in charge. Youre guilty.

report-from-israel

I met my friend Gidi Dar, a writer-director of several feature films, at a popular restaurant not far from whats now called Hostage Square in central Tel Aviv. His most recent film two years ago told of the internecine war between Jewish sects that preceded the Roman invasion in 1st century CE, a parallel to contemporary infighting in Israel.

I had interviewed Dar in the early days after the Oct. 7 attack and wanted to check in on how he was doing. Its a roller coaster, he said. You go from shock to anger to a sense of victory to despair to a sense that were losing the war.

Dars film, Legends of Destruction, goes back to the years when Jesus was a rebel philosopher and the Jews were warring among themselves, as Roman Gen. Vespasian waited patiently to invade the city, destroy the temple, massacre hundreds of thousands and take the rest to captivity. It was meant to be a warning as Israel was riven by bitter politics that left the country vulnerable.

It gives him no pleasure to have been on the money. What astounds me was the shock of the event itself, and the dysfunction of the state. But everything was written on the wall, he said.

A street in Tel Aviv. Signs urge the government to save the hostages. (Sharon Waxman)

Still, what surprised him most was the reaction of people in the West who he thought were fellow liberals. You cant believe it  the reaction of the world, he said. The left, the woke, the young generation, the press. Its crazy.

His words spilled out in a torrent of emotion: On the 7th and 8th of October, as we were butchered, mutilated, raped, the attack began in full force.

By that he meant the attack on Israel over social media and beyond. Now you see huge anti-Israel elements from people who have no idea what from the river to the sea means. It means: No Israel. If you are woke, you are anti-colonial, and you project all this onto Israel. And we are the Nazis and thats it.

He took a beat: That shocked me. How big it was. And how well prepared was this ambush.

Now were facing an Orwellian situation where there is no truth, no sense, no facts, no history. No nothing. Theres almost this magical alliance between the woke left with the most fascistic elements in the world  now acting in concert. Queers for Palestine. Its whacko.

Dars feeling of betrayal was echoed in many conversations I had in Israel. The Israeli left has spent years  decades  on the same side of issues embraced by progressives  gay marriage, trans rights, womens rights, equality and tolerance, including for their Palestinian neighbors.

The left in Israel was stabbed in the back by the global left. As we were butchered, the left was holding demonstrations: Kill them all, he said. It signifies to me that the West is losing its mind.

Similarly, the silence among his colleagues abroad is disturbing.

Im disappointed in the Jewish directors and actors who are staying quiet, he said. And British director Jonathan Glazer, who said he refutes his Jewishness and the Holocaust being hijacked by an occupation during his acceptance speech at the Oscars after winning the Best International category for The Zone of Interest, he found even worse.

This is a very diaspora, cowardly Jewish thing to say, Dar said. And he made a beautiful movie. But its idiotic. Hes showing the banality of evil [in the movie]  and saying We are the Nazis.

Dar is not immune to seeing the tragedy of the destruction in Gaza, and is concerned for the suffering of Palestinians. But like pretty much every other Israeli I talked to, Israelis consider their very survival at stake after the massacre of Oct. 7, and this will not take a back seat to losses on the Palestinian side that they see as part of Hamas cynical strategy.

Whats the alternative? Stop the war? Fk off, he said bitterly. It all sounds so peaceful: no more war  against Hitler? Or against Al-Qaida? Whats wrong with Hitler?

You can criticize us, but it has nothing to do with colonialism. If the woke understood that we are fighting for our lives, maybe they would think differently.

With all this, Dar remains most worried about the divisions in Israeli society that drove his film two years ago. Like many Israelis, hes furious at Netanyahus government. But the pressure from the world makes it all more difficult.

The challenge Israel is about to face internally and externally are the biggest since 1948, he said. And maybe more. The only thing that matters is can we work together or not. The 7th of October gave us the opportunity to save us from ourselves when we were in a downhill slide. But in Israel, the cracks are coming back.

The post An Israeli Director Feels Stabbed in the Back by the Global Left appeared first on TheWrap.
As we round into spring, you just can't remind people enough how important it is to wear some sunscreen, Garner says. Here are her faves

Frazer Harrison/Getty Jennifer Garner attends the premiere of Netflix's "Family Switch" in Los Angeles, California, on November 29, 2023.

Jennifer Garner could talk about sunscreen for hours.

Its a topic thats very important to her. Having suffered sun damage as a kid, the Neutrogena brand ambassador for 16 years learned early that SPF was essential.

Sunscreen is the one step in Garner's routine she never, ever skips, and always puts effort into. And now shes got new favorites to make her routine a breeze.

As we round into spring, you just can't remind people enough how important it is to wear some sunscreen, Garner tells PEOPLE, joking on the call that its obvious from her skin tone that shes a consumer of the product.

Related: Jennifer Garner Shares Skincare Must-Haves for National Hydration Day, Including One She Calls Delish (Exclusive)

I love, love, love, love, love this new serum, says Garner, 51, of the Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Face Serum SPF 60+. It is an SPF for the face and it does triple duty. A girl loves things that multitask.

This happens to prime, moisturize and protect. Why would you not use it? Garner says, adding that the brand does a great job of coming up with common sense solutions.

Why wouldn't you use a serum that's also a moisturizer and also a primer? And why not just add SPF to it? Its like: Boom.

James Devaney/GC images Jennifer Garner leaves ABC's "The View" in New York City on November 27, 2023.

Another smart product in her arsenal is the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 70. It was such a big deal when you could finally spray sunscreen on, Garner recalls, adding that these days sprays are better than ever. This mist [provides] wonderful, even coverage.

After years of working with the brand, Garner says the most empowering aspect of the partnership is talking directly to women.

All of the exposure, she says, has caused people to come up to me and say things like, I actually started wearing sunscreen because of something you said, or, "I didn't know what hyaluronic acid was."

Related: Jennifer Garner on Growing Out Her Bob and Why Short Hair Is Only Fun the Day It's Cut (Exclusive)

It's empowering. Knowledge is power, Garner says.

In March, Neutrogena and Garner 2024 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting to shine a light on effective skincare ingredients, products and habits. Garner also shot social content with Neutrogena R+D Scientists and partners to talk about skin health.

I was just [in San Diego] to help educate people about what is actually going to get the job done for your skin, Garner says of the experience. I think these young kids that are following trends on TikTok, theyre having fun, and thats awesome, but theres a difference between whats viral and whats vital.

James Devaney/GC Images Jennifer Garner leaves NBC Studios in New York City on November 28, 2023.

While Garner stocks her home like a showroom for guests to indulge in while visiting, she says the emphasis is on quality, not quantity.

My vanity is very popular, so I can't have just one of anything, she says. I cannot help but send people home with my favorite things.

Adds the star, For women who are from 35 up, my favorite thing is to introduce them to hyaluronic acid and in a real way. The reason is, as we get older, we lose moisture in our skin. So if you can use hyaluronic acid, what it does is it binds moisture to the skin to make you dewy and plump. Her go-to: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Cream.

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The goal: to be happy with the skin youre in.

We should know how to feel and look as great as we can without any makeup, she says.



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Read the original article on People.
A movie based on the development of Bruce Springsteen's 1982 album 'Nebraska,' titled 'Deliver Me from Nowhere,' is in the works

Neilson Barnard/Getty; Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty Jeremy Allen White and Bruce Springsteen

Jeremy Allen White is taking on the Boss.

White, 33, is reportedly in talks to play Bruce Springsteen in an upcoming movie titled Deliver Me from Nowhere, which would follow the rock icon during the creation of his 1982 album Nebraska. Variety reports that A24 is circling the project, which originates from author Warren Zanes' 2023 non-fiction book of the same name.

Scott Cooper, a filmmaker whose recent works include 2022's The Pale Blue Eye and 2021's Antlers, is writing a script and plans to direct the movie, per reports.

Representatives for Allen White did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment Wednesday.

Related: Mark Wahlberg Calls Fellow Calvin Klein Model Jeremy Allen White One of Many Worthy Successors (Exclusive)

Lynn Goldsmith/Corbis/VCG via Getty Bruce Springsteen circa 1978

Nebraska made for Springsteen's sixth studio album after he broke out in the music industry in the 1970s. The musician famously recorded the 10-song album on his own while he and the E Street Band were in the process of making other music, including their well-known 1984 album Born in the U.S.A.

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"Nebraska expressed a turmoil that was reflective of the mood of the country, but it was also a symptom of trouble in the artists life, the beginnings of a mental breakdown that Springsteen would only talk about openly decades after the albums release," reads an official description of Zanes' book about the album's making on Penguin Random House's website.



Both Springsteen and his manager John Landau are involved in the in-the-works biopic, as Deadline reported Tuesday. Springsteen, known by his nickname "The Boss," won an Academy Award at the 66th Oscars in 1994 for writing and performing the song "Streets of Philadelphia" from the film Philadelphia.

Related: Bruce Springsteen Says Diaphragm Pain from Peptic Ulcer Disease Was 'Killing Me': 'I Couldn't Sing'

Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images Jeremy Allen White on Jan. 15, 2024

While Springsteen's life has not been put to the screen before in a biopic, the musician's legacy and impact was explored in the 2019 film Blinded by the Light, which follows a British Muslim teenager in 1980's England who finds inspiration in Springsteen's music.

White last appeared on the big screen in 2023's The Iron Claw, in which he played the late professional wrestler Kerry Von Erich opposite Zac Efron as Kevin Von Erich. The actor is coming off a series of awards season wins for his FX series The Bear, having recently taken home trophies at the 2023 Emmy Awards, 2024 Golden Globes and 2024 Critics Choice Awards in January and at the 2024 SAG Awards in February.



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Read the original article on People.
The Glory Days are ahead. Jeremy Allen White is reportedly in talks to portray Bruce Springsteen in an upcoming biopic about the New Jersey native, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The upcoming film is set to focus on the making of The Boss 1982 album, Nebraska, and will be based on the 2023 Warren Zanes deep-dive novel of the same name. Per THR, Scott Cooper will be adapting the book into a screenplay and will also direct, with Eric Robinson and Ellen Goldsmith-Vein as producers and Gotham Group backing the film.

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Springsteen has previously said that Nebraska, his sixth studio album, is his most definitive work. If I had to pick out one album and say, This is going to represent you 50 years from now Id pick Nebraska, he told CBS Sunday Morning in 2023. The project peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 albums chart dated Oct. 30, 1982.

White, who is known for his roles in The Iron Claw, Shameless and more, took the award season by storm due to his role as Carmen Carmy Berzatto in the FX comedy-drama series The Bear. The 33-year-old star won a number of best actor awards for his role on The Bear this year, including two Critics Choice Awards, two Golden Glob Awards, two SAG Awards, an Emmy Award and more.

At the time of publication, there is no information on production or timeline plans for the upcoming biopic.

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The past is so close you can almost touch it in Alice Rohrwachers romantic treasure hunt, La Chimera. Set in the liminal space between living and dying, better known as the Italian countryside, Rohwachers carefully excavated narrative unearths a funny and deeply satisfying meditation on loss and hope. Appropriately, half the joy of La Chimera is in discovery, making its plot brutal to discuss. We meet Arthur (Josh OConnor, best known to American audiences as one of the The Crowns Prince Charleses) in a dream. From his first-person perspective he admires the face of the woman he loved, lost, and is desperate to find again, Beniamina (Yile Yara Vianello). She haunts Arthur from just beyond his grasp, leaving behind a red string from the past that he longs to pull. Luckily, thats what Arthur does best.



Arthurs quest is for a holy grail of another sort. Returning to Italy hoping to reconnect with Beniamina and pay off a lingering debt, Arthur begrudgingly reteams with his old gang of Italian tomaroli, or tomb raiders. They scour for valuables found in their backyard, aided in no small part byahemArthurs supernatural connection with Tuscanys subbasements of yore. The tombaroli live among ruins, calling ramshackle shacks devoid of heat, furniture, or even floors home. At this stage, in the decomposing white linen suit he was seemingly born in, Arthur is starting to resemble the relics he hunts. He finds his first tomb at Beniaminas home, where her mother, Flora (an effortlessly comforting Isabella Rosellini), resides. Floras parade of daughters and granddaughters encourages her to abandon her leaky flat for a nursing home, presumably leaving the house for grave robbers like Arthur.



Arthur connects with spaces from the past more than people. His grave robbers intuition, aided by a divining rod to locate artifacts beneath the surface, is one of the films most vital connections to the ethereal power of its country. Rohrwacher, the Italian director who established herself as a burgeoning master of magical realism with 2014s Cannes winner The Wonders, imbues 1980s Tuscany with a bewitching air. A character could break the fourth wall or disappear into the ether at any moment. Neither would feel out of place.

With the rounded edges recalling its 16mm photography, the film has an old-world feel, as if were seeing something uncovered from the past. Shot in 16mm, Super 16, and 35mm, the border left from 16mm celluloid remains regardless of the format, affording the movie a documentary verisimilitude that grounds the films magical elements.



Written with Carmela Covino, who contributed to Rohwachers Happy As Lazzaro and her Oscar-nominated short Le Pupille, and Marco Pettenello, Rohwachers script hides surprises behind every line, revealing elements of Arthurs past and recontextualizing his present. Arthur doesnt speak much, and even more rarely does he talk in his native English. After several scenes of people treating him as a local and an interloper, we learn hes English (or maybe Irish). His slippery identity finds common cause with Italia (Carol Duarte), whose name cant help but carry some groan-worthy allegorical charge. Characterized as tone deaf by Flora, Italia teaches Arthur to speak without using his voice, and the two commune via sign language.

Josh OConnor and Carol Durate

Everyone in La Chimera has a tangible dream they cant fulfill. For Arthur, its finding his lover. For the gang, limitless riches will facilitate a leisurely life. Their whimsy and earthly desires balance Arthurs alienation, creating a dynamic often found in the fantasies of Hayao Miyazaki, the grouchy sorcerer surrounded by chuckling little sprites. But while theyre Spirited Away, Rohwacher reminds us that these graverobbers are cogs in a giant machine bent on commodifying the past, looting the magic buried beneath Italy and selling it for a price.



La Chimera enchants the viewer with its decaying spaces and lively performances. The tortured OConnor holds great power in stillness and silence through his connection to the spirit world, a realm he wishes to join. That tension is felt as the people around him are reduced to barking animals consumed by greed; only Flora and Italia respect the spaces that no one owns and everyone owns. La Chimera is a formal delight that holds no shortage of surprises. It calls for further viewings, asking us to unearth the mysteries buried long ago. In Rohwachers world, magic is everywhere and nowhere, and the secrets of the past belong to no one and everyone. If we dig in the right spot, maybe well find what we lost.
LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/Getty Images

Thailands House of Representatives passed a bill that would legalize same-sex marriage on Wednesday, inching one step closer to making Thailand the first Southeast Asian country to protect marriage equality.

Four hundred legislators supported the bill in total, the Associated Press reported, with just 10 in opposition. The bill would replace the words men and women, husband, and wife with individuals and marriage partners in applicable passages of the national Civil and Commercial Code. It now heads to the national Senate, which must vote on the bill or request further amendments within 60 days, per Thailands constitution. Should the Senate approve the bill  as its members are expected to, per the BBC  it will then be sent to King Maha Vajiralongkorn for his signature.

I want to invite you all to make history, said Danuphorn Punnakanta, chair of the House committee on marriage equality, before the vote, according to Al Jazeera. We did this for all Thai people to reduce disparity in society and start creating equality.

Following successful votes on four draft pieces of legislation last November, those bills were merged into one for Mondays vote. But the final bill as approved this week does not include provisions that would have also changed the terms father and mother in the Code to gender-neutral parents, which the Thai LGBTQ+ advocacy group Fortify Rights warned may limit rights for LGBTI+ persons, particularly rights for LGBTI+ couples with children, in a statement Tuesday.

Thailand Could Soon Legalize Same-Sex Marriage. It Would Change Lives.

Three couples speak to how marriage equality would transform their lives beyond marriage  and potentially shift Thai culture.

If the bill passes into law later this year, Thailand will become the second country in Asia to legalize marriage equality, following Taiwan  where international same-sex marriages are now also honored  in 2019. (Court orders have allowed LGBTQ+ couples to marry in Nepal, but there is still no law regarding marriage equality on the national scale.) LGBTQ+ couples in Thailand have long awaited the legal reforms, and hold out hope that marriage equality will create further opportunities for change, especially for transgender rights.

Same-sex marriage will open doors for other laws that support LGBTQ+ people, activist Nachale Boonyapisomparn told Them in February. Maybe in the next five months, we will propose legal gender recognition to Parliament, so I am getting to learn the process a little bit.

Get the best of whats queer. Sign up for Thems weekly newsletter here.

Originally Appeared on them.
The post Lily Gladstone Honored with Stand-Up Headdress from Blackfeet Reservation appeared first on Consequence.

Lily Gladstone may have missed out on winning an Oscar, but she received perhaps an even bigger honor when she was presented a stand-up headdress from elders of the Blackfeet Reservation.

According to Tulsa World, being given a stand-up headdress is a rare honor, as they are made from eagle feathers, bison hide, porcupine quills, ermine hides, and willows, and are considered sacred and symbolic of both the natural and supernatural worlds.

Gladstone became the first Indigenous person to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress and the first to be nominated for Best Actress at the Oscars for her performance in Martin Scorseses Killers of the Flower Moon. During her Golden Globe acceptance speech, she notably spoke in the Blackfoot language.

Thousands of Indigenous people from across the US and Canada traveled to attend Gladstones ceremony held in Browning, Montana on Tuesday night. Theda New Breast, a member of the Womens Stand-Up Headdress Society, told Tulsa World that it marked the largest gathering of stand-up headdress members to date. This is way bigger than the Oscars, she said. As Lily grows, shell bring us with her. Shes bringing all the women with her.

Speaking at the ceremony, Blackfeet Tribal councilman Everett Armstrong told Gladstone that, Because of you, rez kids on every reservation here and in Canada can chase their dreams.

In her own remarks, Gladstone said, I feel so lucky and so blessed that Im Blackfeet and I get to be here. tIs a really special thing to be who we are, to be from where were from. And I know sometimes it can be a really hard thing, too, but all good things are hard things.

Lily Gladstone Honored with Stand-Up Headdress from Blackfeet Reservation

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Editors Note: The following post contains spoilers for The New Look Episode 9.

With the penultimate episode of The New Look comes the end of the road for Elsa Lombardi (Emily Mortimer), one of the most fascinating and fictionalized characters in Todd Kesslers Apple TV+ series. After a fight with Coco (Juliette Binoche), a critical interaction with Spatz (Claes Bang), and a fatal overdose, Elsa is found dead while Coco weeps over her body.

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But a quick scan of history reveals that Elsa Lombardi never existed. According to Kessler, Mortimers character is an amalgam of two figures in Chanels life, fused for narrative purposes to serve the series. One of those is the French-Polish musician Misia Sert, who met Chanel in 1917, and the other is British socialite Vera Lombardi, whose lifestyle inspired the House of Chanel.

The real-life Lombardi was Chanels way into British high society, including the Royal Family, and critically to the shows narrative, Winston Churchill. Her marriage to an Italian army captain meant that she had connections to Mussolini that were also fruitful in Chanels wartime activities.

Whats not in the show is that the Gestapo went to Elsa Lombardi, Kessler told IndieWire. [They] told her that they wanted her to come to Paris and she refused, and they put her in a prison for three or four months to try to break her will and just come on her own volition.

Some of that plays out as it does in The New Look, with the women traveling together and Elsa suspecting Coco of colluding with Nazis, but in real life their association eventually caused concern for MI6. Lombardi ended up becoming an informant and was never convicted of suspicious activity herself, despite tangential involvement in Chanels movements. Their contact ceased after Lombardi denounced Chanel as a spy, and she died a few years later after struggling to return home to Italy.

She essentially killed her, Kessler said. Not actively killed her, but took her away from Italy. She was in captivity, in prison  not only in Italy but then she was kept by the British Council  and she dies. And thats the end of her story.

The show is more direct in showing Cocos hand by keeping the women close, and by then weaving Vera Lombardis story into Misia Serts. Sert was close enough to Chanel that she comes to basically cheer her up because Chanels bored while in Switzerland. Drug use was a regular part of their friendship over the years, though Serts death was not directly attributed to an overdose. The New Look is hardly the first docudrama to indulge in some Hollywood embellishment, choosing to make Elsa and Coco friends since childhood and bookending Elsas death episode with flashbacks to their youth and big dreams. At the end of Episode 9, Cocos implication in her friends death makes it all the more tragic.

Its such a colorful character that to just combine them made sense, Kessler said, citing conversations he had with Mortimer throughout the process as well. It didnt feel like it was really betraying the spirit of either of them.

The New Look airs Wednesdays on Apple TV+ and concludes its first season on April 3.

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Zak Moyer has been charged with criminal homicide in connection with the death of Edward Whitehead Jr., police say

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Police in Pennsylvania have arrested a 30-year-old man accused of killing his neighbor with a chainsaw while wearing a mask from the Scream horror series according to authorities, per multiple reports.

Zak Moyer, 30, has been charged with criminal homicide in connection with the death of his neighbor, 59-year-old Edward Whitehead Jr., WFMZ, Times News Online and Lehighvalleylive.com reported, citing Pennsylvania State Police.

Police responded to a Lehighton, Pa., home on Monday and found Whitehead struck multiple times with a knife and a battery-operated chainsaw," Trooper Anthony Petroski said, according to WFMZ.

In surveillance footage, police saw the suspect clad in all-black clothing and a mask from the iconic Scream movie, Lehighvalleylive.com and Times New Online reported, citing a probable cause affidavit.

Moyer allegedly escaped into the house next to Whitehead's after the killing, authorities alleged in the court documents, per Lehighvalleylive.com and Times New Online.

He was briefly inside the home while police surrounded the property and asked him to come out, per the probable cause affidavit cited by Times News Online.

He then allegedly began communicating with police outside with notes on his window, according to a neighbor's video reviewed by WFMZ.

In the notes, Moyer allegedly accused Whitehead of crimes, WFMZ reported, citing a police report.

Police told Lehighvalleylive.com they are not investigating the alleged crimes Moyer is allegedly trying to pin on Whitehead.

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.

According to court records, Moyers sister alleged that he had mentioned killing Whitehead for the week before the killing, WFMZ and Lehighvalleylive.com reported.

Moyer is set to be arraigned in April, according to online court records. No attorney was listed for him in court records as of Wednesday afternoon.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. Petitions of the General Prosecutor's Office of Uzbekistan concerning the citizens of Uzbekistan, Siyavush Hasanov, born in 1985, and Sarvar Abdurakhimov, born in 1990, who were declared on the international wanted list, have been satisfied, the Prosecutor General's Office of Azerbaijan told Trend.

Siyavush Hasanov and Sarvar Abdurahimov, who were internationally wanted for fraud charges, were apprehended at Heydar Aliyev International Airport on March 6, 2024. Subsequently, they were remanded in custody as a preventive measure.

Following the Convention of October 7, 2002, "On legal assistance and legal relations in civil, family, and criminal cases," decisions were taken on the extradition of the detainees. They were handed over to the competent authorities of Uzbekistan, accompanied by a special convoy of the Penitentiary Service of the Ministry of Justice of Azerbaijan.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Montana Story is an American drama focusing on an estranged pair of half-siblings who are brought together by their terminally ill father. The film got a positive response from critics and viewers. It hit the screens in May 2022.

Heres how you can watch and stream Montana Story via streaming services such as Hulu.

Is Montana Story available to watch via streaming?

Yes, Montana Story is available to watch via streaming on Hulu.

The young half-siblings Cal and Erin return to their Montana Ranch to look after their father who has slipped into a coma. The two reconnect with Cal selling the ranchs assets while Erin tries to get her hands on the familys horse. Scott McGehee and David Siegel are the directors of the film.

The star cast features Haley Lu Richardson, Owen Teague, Gilbert Owuor, Kimberly Guerrero, Eugene Brave Rock, and Asivak Koostachin in key roles.

Watch Montana Story streaming via Hulu

Montana Story is available to watch on Hulu. Hulu provides subscribers access to current episodes of many popular TV series shortly after they air, along with an extensive library of past seasons and movies.

You can watch via Hulu by following these steps:

Go to Hulu.com/welcome Select Start Your Free Trial Choose a plan: $7.99 per month or $79.99 per year (With Ads)

$17.99 per month (No Ads)

Hulu (With Ads) is the cheapest option, providing users access to Hulus streaming library with commercials. Hulu (No Ads) is the services premium option, providing access to its library without any advertisements. There are also several bundles available with Hulu that pair the service with Disney Plus and ESPN Plus, along with Live TV plans that also include many live TV channels.

Montana Storys synopsis is as follows:

Two estranged siblings return home to the sprawling ranch they once knew and loved in order to care for their ailing father.

NOTE: The streaming services listed above are subject to change. The information provided was correct at the time of writing.

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The post Montana Story Streaming: Watch & Stream Online via Hulu appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
Julia Garner as the scammer Anna Delvey in 'Inventing Anna.' - Credit: AARON EPSTEIN/NETFLIX

A defamation lawsuit against Netflix over its miniseries Inventing Anna  about the Soho grifter Anna Delvey, a.k.a. Anna Sorokin  is set to go to trial after a judge rejected the streaming services bid to dismiss the case.

In August 2022, six months after the Shonda Rhimes-produced miniseries debuted, former Vanity Fair photo editor and Delveys friend Rachel DeLoache Williams filed the lawsuit against Netflix, citing 16 instances in which she claimed she was defamed and vilified in Inventing Anna.

More from Rolling Stone

Most notably, the miniseries posited that Williams abandoned Delvey during a trip to Morocco  Delvey knew beforehand that Williams had to travel to France for work  and that she stopped being friends with Delvey amid the con artists financial issues.

Williams did not stop being friends with Sorokin because Sorokin was having problems in Morocco, but rather because she subsequently discovered on her return to New York that Sorokin was a liar and a con artist, the lawsuit said.

The miniseries portrayal of Williams, her lawsuit stated, made her appear as a greedy, snobbish, disloyal, dishonest, cowardly, manipulative and opportunistic person, when in reality, Williams was also a victim of Delveys scheme. Netflix, in an attempt to dismiss the lawsuit, said their interpretation of Williams was open to literary license and protected by the First Amendment, Variety reported. Inventing Anna even bore the disclaimer, This story is completely true. Except for the parts that are totally made up.

However, the judge disagreed with that argument, focusing specifically on the abandonment allegation. As Williams alleges, the statements indicate that Williams abandoned Sorokin when Sorokin was alone, depressed and in trouble in Morocco, the judge wrote. And whether Sorokin was in a troubled state and Williams left her at that point can be proven true or false.

If the defamation lawsuit does go to trial, among the witnesses so far subpoenaed by Williams lawyers include actress Katie Lowes  who played Williams in the miniseries  and Delvey herself.

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The Pioneer Woman (2011) Season 27 continues to showcase Ree Drummonds quaint life in her beautiful ranch in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, as she shares more of her amazing recipes. As always, she makes use of affordable and easily accessible ingredients with traditional and less daunting cooking methods, making them perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Heres how you can watch and stream The Pioneer Woman (2011) Season 27 via streaming services such as HBO Max.

Is The Pioneer Woman (2011) Season 27 available to watch via streaming?

Yes, The Pioneer Woman (2011) Season 27 is available to watch via streaming on HBO Max.

Season 27 of the show was released on 2 January 2021, and features recipes like a quick and easy Chicken Fajita Pasta, Cajun T-Bone Steak with Lemon Pepper Shoestring Fries, Clementine Sprinkle Cake, and an Easy Lamb Stew, among many others.

The Pioneer Woman continues to be hosted by the popular blogger, author, food writer, and television personality Ree Drummond.

Watch The Pioneer Woman (2011) Season 27 streaming via HBO Max

The Pioneer Woman (2011) Season 27 is available to watch on HBO Max. It is a premium subscription based streaming service owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, that is the home to a plethora of globally acclaimed television series.

You can watch via Max, formerly known as HBO Max, by following these steps:

Go to HBOMax.com/subscribe Click Sign Up Now Choose your plan: $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year (with ads)

$15.99 per month or $149.99 per year (ad-free)

$19.99 per month or $199.99 per year (ultimate ad-free) Enter your personal information and password Select Create Account

Max With Ads provides the services streaming library at a Full HD resolution, allowing users to stream on up to two supported devices at once. Max Ad-Free removes the services commercials and allows streaming on two devices at once in Full HD. It also allows for 30 downloads at a time to allow users to watch content offline. On the other hand, Max Ultimate Ad-Free allows users to stream on four devices at once in a 4K Ultra HD resolution and provides Dolby Atmos audio and 100 downloads.

The Pioneer Woman (2011) synopsis is as follows:

Ree Drummond, a city gal-turned-ranchers wife, creates down-home dishes on her picturesque Oklahoma ranch. Take one sassy former city girl, her hunky rancher husband and a band of adorable kids, an extended family, cowboys, 3000 wild mustangs, a herd of cattle, and one placid basset hound and you have The Pioneer Woman. The Pioneer Woman is an open invitation into Ree Drummonds life: The award-winning blogger and best-selling cookbook author comes to Food Network and shares her special brand of home cooking, from throw-together suppers to elegant celebrations. The series, set against the incredible story of life at home on the range, is the next best thing to actually sitting on a stool in Rees kitchen.

NOTE: The streaming services listed above are subject to change. The information provided was correct at the time of writing.

Why cant Hollywood make a proper sequel to Ghostbusters? That was the only running through my brain following Frozen Empire

Movies Jeff Ames 11 hours ago

Netflix has rounded out the cast for the upcoming third season of The Lincoln Lawyer. According to Deadline, Jon Tenney

TV Ryan Louis Mantilla 12 hours ago

The Roku Channel has shared the official Spiderwick Chronicles trailer for its upcoming series adaptation of Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly

TV Maggie Dela Paz 12 hours ago

Netflix has added three guest stars for the upcoming second season of The Night Agent, joining returning series leads including

TV Ryan Louis Mantilla 12 hours ago

Read more

The post The Pioneer Woman (2011) Season 27 Streaming: Watch & Stream Online via HBO Max appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
In February, PEOPLE confirmed that the estranged couple were filing for divorce after 15 months of marriage

Derek White/Getty Images Simon Guobadia and Porsha Williams

Porsha Williams is speaking out against her estranged husband Simon Guobadia after he responded to her divorce filing with new claims.

In a motion filed by Guobadia on Monday and obtained by PEOPLE, he alleged that The Real Housewives of Atlanta star, 42, "abandoned" their shared home but later returned with a "man visibly bearing a gun for reasons unknown to [him].

The incident allegedly took place on March 21 and police were called to the scene in order to "maintain the peace," per the motion.

Guobadia claimed Williams, 42, instructed "third parties"" to harass him "in an effort to force" him and others out of the Georgia home. He also alleged that Williams invited the "armed gunman" into their home on two separate occasions.

Elsewhere in the complaint, Guobadia claimed that Williams, her mother and her mother's partner made a "forcible entry" into the home on March 24 to disconnect security cameras and "tampered with items and evidence. (PEOPLE reached out to the Gwinnett County Police Department for confirmation but did not receive a response.)

Guobadia further claimed that Williams' behavior has been "erratic, unstable, threatening, and harassing" to the home's staff and their child upon filing for divorce, leading Guobadia to ask the court for a restraining order against his estranged wife.

Paras Griffin/Getty Images Simon Guobadia and Porsha Williams

Related: Porsha Williams Requests Simon Guobadia Not 'Destroy' Financial Records and Prenup Is Enforced After She Filed for Divorce

Later on Monday, Williams filed a response to Guobadia's motion. In the docs, which were obtained by PEOPLE, she denied the claims made by her estranged husband, calling them "false statements and allegations" that are "intentionally misrepresenting the reality of the situation."

Williams claimed that she returned to their shared residence on March 21 to "retrieve her daughters swim items" and again on March 24 "to secure her personal belongings."

"The parties have always had personal security, as such it is unclear why [Guobadia] is attempting to push a false narrative that even minimally suggests that [Williams] returned to the marital residence with any nefarious intentions," the response filing states, noting that both of their security teams "cooperated and worked together while both on the premises."

During another instance on March 7, Williams claimed she went to the home and brought "personal security for her own safety in light of [Guobadia's] erratic behavior, including hosting multiple strangers who were unknown to [her]." She also claimed he disabled her access to the home on multiple occasions and has since fled the country to Dubai.

In her response, Williams pointed out that Guobadia was allegedly refusing to adhere to the terms of their prenuptial agreement and asked that the court deny Guobadia's motion and grant her exclusive possession of their home, given Guobadia's "erratic conduct."

She also requested that Guobadia be ordered to pay her attorney fees since she "has incurred and will continue to incur significant attorneys fees and expenses of litigation to defend against [his] Motion."



Paras Griffin/Getty Porsha Williams and Simon Guobadia

Related: Porsha Williams Called Estranged Husband Simon Guobadia Her 'Ride or Die' 5 Days Before Divorce Filing

In February, PEOPLE confirmed that the couple had filed for divorce after 15 months of marriage.

News of their split comes as rumors fly online about Guobadia's citizen status. However, at the time, a source told PEOPLE the divorce is "unrelated to recent allegations involving Simon's past" and the cause of their split was an "ongoing matter."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Williams, 42, and Guobadia, 59, said "I do" in November 2022 in a Nigerian traditional native law and custom ceremony followed by an American ceremony in Atlanta.

The pair announced their engagement in May 2021 after one month of dating. "Yes we are crazy in love," Williams captioned a selfie with Guobadia. "I know it's fast but we are living life each day to its fullest. I choose happiness every morning and every night."

Guobadia echoed Williams' sentiments, telling his followers that he asked her to marry him "because we checked ALL of each other's boxes, and then some."



For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
Richard Serra in one of his sculptures at Museum of Modern Art Sculpture Garden in New York in 2007 [Getty Images]

Richard Serra, a giant of US art whose monumental steel sculptures have appeared around the world over the past 50 years, has died at the age of 85.

Nicknamed the "poet of iron", Serra is credited with reinventing sculpture by placing simple but huge arrangements of upright slabs and shapes in the ground.

People can walk around and between his looming and leaning metal sheets, often on a street or in the landscape.

His rusting works are in cities including London, Berlin and New York.

For visitors, walking inside his sculptures could evoke a range of sensations, from inner peace to physical oppression.

"They sometimes induce vertigo. But they're also remarkably liberating," Washington Post art critic Sebastian Smee wrote.

"You can come out of them with feelings of secret and victorious expansion, as if you were Theseus after slaying the Minotaur."

Visitors can walk between and around Serra's metal sheets [Getty Images]

Serra was born in San Francisco, where he would see the giant steel shapes of the hulls at the shipyard where his father worked.

Serra himself worked in a steel mill to help pay for his education, studying fine art at Yale, but he originally set out to be a painter.

He switched to sculpture when he realised that it was more interesting to have the viewer as part of the artwork itself.

Serra adjusting another of his works in Paris in 2008 [Getty Images]

Becoming part of the underground New York art scene in the 1960s, he and artistic friends like composers Philip Glass and Steve Reich funded their work by forming a removals company - Low Rate Movers - and shifting furniture part-time.

Serra's artistic reputation grew, as did the scale of his creations. However, that came with tragedy and controversy.

In 1971, a worker who was installing a Serra sculpture in Minneapolis was fatally crushed when a two-tonne steel plate fell on him. In 1988, a labourer lost a leg when an artwork collapsed as they were dismantling it in New York.

Several years earlier, a major installation in the city's Federal Plaza was at the centre of a high-profile dispute, when a judge led a campaign to have the 120ft (36.5m) curved, leaning steel wall removed.

Tilted Arc was unpopular with some in New York in the 1980s [Getty Images]

At a public hearing, Tilted Arc was lambasted as "garbage", "hideous", "an irritant", "a calculated offence" and "scrap iron" - and a jury that had been chosen to settle the matter voted for its removal.

Serra himself could be outspoken and uncompromising, and was described as "not a man of moderate opinions" in a 1989 New York Times profile under the headline, "Our most notorious sculptor".

His imposing works continued to be erected in locations including the entrance to Liverpool Street station in London, Toronto Pearson Airport, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, and the Qatari desert.

The cause of death was pneumonia, his lawyer told the New York Times. The paper also reported that he had been diagnosed with cancer of the tear duct several years ago but had declined surgery to remove the eye.
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Fresh from pampering Jennifer Lawrence and Kim Kardashian for the Oscars, celebrity facialist Toska Husted is preparing to expand her beauty business  far from the flashbulbs of Hollywood.

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The Kosovo-born, North Carolina-based aesthetician is bringing her signature Toska Glow this summer to Downtown Dallas, Nashville and Miamis Coral Gables, where clients can soon experience the same star-loved skin rejuvenation ($295-$895 and up; add-ons range from $40-$295) as Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez (her 2020 Super Bowl skin was all thanks to Husted), Queen Rania and daughter Princess Iman of Jordan, Billy Porter, Kendall Jenner, Karlie Kloss, Alexandra Daddario, Elsa Pataky, Hollywood stylist Jamie Mizrahi and many others.

At her namesake Toska Spa & Facial Bar in Charlotte (or wherever shes asked to jet-set for clients), Husted offers personalized, results-driven facials with her proprietary lifting, hydrating and sculpting techniques, plus a custom concoction of masks and serums from her go-to European skin-care brands such as Switzerlands Valmont and LElixir des Glaciers, Germany-based Auteur, botanical Moroccan label Future, London-born 111Skin and cult-favorite French clinical line Biologique Recherche (for which she is an ambassador).

Toska Husted's Toska Spa & Facial Bar in Charlotte, North Carolina

A red carpet preparation facial (from $10,000) by Husted herself, for example, combines many modalities into one, from deep cleansing, manual lifting, various masks, custom handpicked quintessential serums to using galvanic current for embedding product within the skin, and microcurrent for muscle stimulation, toning and lifting, she tells The Hollywood Reporter. All of these elements combined makes for a powerful treatment that gives the clients that elusive photo-ready glowing complexion.

The result: a dewy, natural-looking lift that leaves the visage contoured, firm, nourished and radiant for awards season, the Met Gala or a royal wedding. (Husted was responsible for Princess Imans bridal glow.)

The first time that I was really thinking, Ive really made it big this time, was with Jennifer Aniston, 52-year-old Husted says. I was asked to go see her while she was filming in Atlanta. It was a pleasant experience and I was flattered when she said my facials were next level.'

Toska Husted's Toska Spa & Facial Bar in Charlotte, North Carolina

Husted moved from her native Kosovo more than 23 years ago to London, where she earned her beautician license from the Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology. She opened her first spa in 2016 in Charlottes Dilworth neighborhood and relocated a few years ago to the tony SouthPark enclave. Dallas-based Surge Private Equity acquired Husteds company last year, and will partner with the celebrity aesthetician to open the new skin-care outposts in the three Hollywood-beloved Southern destinations.

The Charlotte studio also offers quickie 30-minute facials ($129 and up), body treatments ($295 and up), Biologique Recherches Micro-Puncture method (a less-invasive technique thats similar to microneedling), waxing and brow and lash services. Expect the same menu at her trio of upcoming openings; Miami is expected to debut in May, while Dallas and Nashville will come later this year.

Since I was young, I knew that I wanted to do something related to esthetics, Husted adds. Feeling comfortable in your skin and the confidence that comes with that is important to me, and I know its important to many other women and men as well. After moving to the States from London, I noticed the lack of results-driven spas and I got inspired. There was a vast gap between medical spas and the more comfort-based spas. I wanted to make something that would utilize clinical strength products while also having that personal, holistic approach that would help clients feel comfortable enough to fall asleep before waking up to beautiful, healthy skin.

Facial treatment at Toska Husted's Toska Spa & Facial Bar in Charlotte, North Carolina

After closing out a busy awards season, Husted sat down with THR to explain what skin-care enthusiasts should remember before slathering on layers of products and the at-home routine she suggests for those who cant hop on a plane to her Southern skin-care sanctuaries. (Otherwise, youll have to catch her when shes next in Los Angeles.)

Keep reading below and shop some of the star facialists favorite products, with the exclusion of Biologique Recherche (only available through select spa retailers, including Toska Spa).

Not all buzzy skincare ingredients are right for everyone  what do you want people to keep in mind before they start using vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid and other products?

Always check in with an expert before starting new products. Ingredients that work like magic for some may spell disaster for others, and an expert opinion can take out the guesswork and struggle when it comes to keeping your skin in balance.

Nothing will replace getting your facials IRL, so how can clients who cant necessarily visit your spas get a version of your treatments at home?

We have our various mini-treatments that last for 30 minutes, making them perfect for those who are short on time but still want a well-rounded facial experience. For your at-home regimens, what products you use will depend on your skin, but we will typically recommend a cleanser, toner, mask, serum and cream to be used twice a day, plus sunscreen to be used throughout the day. The biggest thing you can do with your home routine is to stay consistent.

Toska Spa & Facial Bar, 4401 Barclay Downs Dr., Charlotte; (704) 332-8500; toskaspa.com.

Celebrity Facialist Toska Husted Opening Three Skin-Care Spas in U.S.

CLEANSE

Auteur Definitive Enzyme Cleanser

$170 at Auteur

Auteurs Definitive Enzyme Cleanser boasts ingredients such as ascorbic acid, ascorbyl glucoside and a vitamin C concoction to promote collagen production and exfoliate, smooth and brighten the skin.

Celebrity Facialist Toska Husted Opening Three Skin-Care Spas in U.S.

TARGET

L'Elixir des Glaciers Fluide Merveilleux

$395 at Valmont

This luxurious pre-serum by LElixir des Glaciers (the sister brand of Valmont) contains sturgeon DNA and marine minerals to stimulate, regenerate and illuminate the skin from within.

Valmont Prime Renewing Pack

MOISTURIZE

Valmont Prime Renewing Pack

$295 at Valmont

Valmonts best-selling Prime Renewing Pack cream contains liposome RNA and matrikine peptides that promote cell proliferation [and] collagen synthesis to bring firmness and triple hydration to the skin, leaving a smooth and radiant finish while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Valmont Daily Veil SPF30 Sunscreen

PROTECT

Valmont Daily Veil SPF30 Sunscreen

$190 at Valmont

$190 AT saks fifth avenue

$190 AT Neiman Marcus

Valmonts Daily Veil SPF 30 not only protects the skin from sun damage  it also hydrates and smooths the skin, too.

Auteur Definitive Lip Renewal Treatment

LIPS

Auteur Definitive Lip Renewal Treatment

$95 at Auteur

Collagen prepeptide, squalane and a proprietary LipSculpt Complex in Auteurs Definitive Lip Treatment help to infuse pouts with deep hydration, softer texture and transformative plumping.

111Skin Cryo Sculpting Globes

COOL

111Skin Cryo Sculpting Globes

Husted recommends cooling metal cryosticks  like these 111Skin sculpting globes  for soothing redness, lifting and extra sculpting.

111Skin Anti-Blemish Booster

TREAT

111Skin Anti-Blemish Booster

$135 at 111Skin

Formulated for all skin types, the Anti-Blemish Booster helps to prevent and treat breakouts with salicylic acid (for exfoliating and de-clogging pores), kojic acid (for addressing discoloration) and colloidal sulfur (for clearing acne-causing bacteria).

111Skin Black Diamond Wrinkle Erasing Retinol Patches

TREAT

111Skin Black Diamond Wrinkle Erasing Retinol Patches

$190 at 111Skin

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A photo is worth thousands of words if its finest details are studied, and a recent picture of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce leaving lunch has at least one detail worth discussing: her handbag.

On Sunday, the pair returned from a vacation in the Bahamas to eat at Nobu in Malibu. Restaurantgoers snapped grainy photos and videos on their camera phones  zoomed in as far as possible  to feed an insatiable thirst to know the singers every move as she takes a two-month hiatus from her record-breaking, billion-dollar Eras Tour.

When Swift and Kelce left, a clear shot snapped by the paparazzi showed the couples fashion. For Kelce, his white Happy Gilmore hat is a favorite he wears often. His beige sweater fit the color palette of Tortured Poets, the 11th era album Swift is dropping in April. Her light blue cashmere sweater, beige skort, loafers and fine leather bag gave schoolgirl softness, as Sarah Chapelle, the "Taylor Swift Style" expert, said in an Instagram post.

Ramesh Nair designed the Joseph Duclos Diane messenger bag.

While the internet passed around the photo with comments about the couple, Ramesh Nairs phone 5,700 miles away in Paris started blowing up.

In fact, my phone hasnt stopped getting messages, Nair says over Zoom. Weve had a couple amazing ladies whove carried our bags.

The creative director for Joseph Duclos, the French heritage brand founded 269 years ago, has placed his purses in the hands of France's first lady Brigitte Macron and former first lady Carla Bruni. The brand celebrates a centuries long tradition of placing timeless fashion into the hands of royalty (literally, politically and figuratively). Dubbed a modern-day queen by millions of fans worldwide, Swift easily fits the Duclos mold.

Im so proud to have (Swift) carry that bag, Nair says. It's just fantastic. She carries it so well.

It took years for Nair to conceive of and craft the luxury handbag. When the world slowly opened back up during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, the artisan took advantage of the limited crowds to visit museums. There would only be a few people inside the Louvre, which is normally inundated with wall-to-wall foot traffic. He fastidiously pored over the evolution of leather from the 1700s to the present, jotting down notes and sketching drawings in a small book he keeps in his back pocket.

I had written something about soft and hard like a clamshell, he says. The bag is soft leather with a metallic frame. Its arrowhead clasp was drawn from a statue of Diana, the goddess of hunters, drawing a bow and arrow. I mixed a whole bunch of little inspirations, little thoughts.

From renderings to production, the purse took about a year to perfect and was sent off to Los Angeles.

Like the small business owners who sent Swift a box of vintage Kansas City Chiefs sweaters in September, Nair didnt know when she may wear the piece. Although the moment Swift and Kelce left their lunch date was fleeting and the photo will probably never be hung in a museum, the simple act of wearing the handbag comes with a story years in the making that will be added to the Joseph Duclos legacy.

Don't miss any Taylor Swift news; sign up for the free, weekly newsletter "This Swift Beat."

Follow Taylor Swift reporter Bryan West on Instagram, TikTok and X as @BryanWestTV.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Taylor Swift carried Joseph Duclos handbag on Travis Kelce date


Sweet Planet, a one of the highest-profile China-Europe co-productions of recent years, will air on China Global Television Network from Friday.



The six-part culinary documentary is a co-production between millennial-focused global channel operator Insight TV, Netherlands-based production company JOIIN, and CGTN. It explore the culinary and cultural impact of sugar in cooking and food rituals around the world. In each episode, viewers are introduced not only to the sweet creations themselves, but also the stories of the local chefs, farmers, and artisans behind the sticky delicacies.



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Production visited Icelands Reykjanes for salt, Chinas Xinjiang for grape growing, The Netherlands for production of mead, the sweet shops of Copenhagen, maple sugar shacks in Canada, taro paste production in Fuzhou, and Ushuaia, Argentina, for its sweet desserts.



Sweet Planet will be available to CGTNs six channels, across 68 languages, with over 700 million viewers across the globe. It will also be available on CGTN Digital, which is accessible via CGTN.com, CGTN mobile applications, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Weibo and other social media platforms with over 600 million followers across the globe.



Insight TVs global channels, reaching over 400+ million households in 56 countries, across 12 languages. It is also available for licensing to additional channels and platforms.



The series was launched at an event in The Hague attended by Insight TV CEO Rian Bester and Qian Fang, director of program department at CGTN Europe.



This co-production marks the start of a recurring series format that we are confident will be well received in China and across CGTNs international feeds, but also on Insight TV channels around the globe, said Bester.



JOIIN, whose activities include content production and distribution, a global creator network and IP monetization, has a creative hub in Amsterdam and BD and operation hub in Beijing. These serve clients in Eurasian territory with a special focus in Greater China and Southeast Asia.

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The Unlocked: A Jail Experiment Netflix release date is right around the corner, and viewers are wondering when they can start streaming the TV series.

The upcoming documentary addresses the intriguing topic of advocating for prisoners rights and welfare. The show dives deep into the dismal conditions of inmates, prompting the Arkansas Eric Higgins to devise measures to ensure the prisoners autonomy and dignity. The trailer, which dropped on March 13, 2024, showcases a comprehensive, and revelatory account of experiences and interviews behind bars. Heres when the show is coming out on Netflix.

When is the Unlocked: A Jail Experiment Netflix release date?

The Unlocked: A Jail Experiment Netflix release date is April 10, 2024.

In this new show, Arkansas Sheriff Eric Higgins addresses the poor condition of the prisons, the mistreatment of the prisoners, and the miserable conditions they live in. He organizes a six-week program that aims to give the inmates enough autonomy to put their decision-making powers to the test. The convicts will be tasked with the responsibility of looking after the other inmates well-being along with their own.

Eric Higgins (the lead cast), George Kralovansky, Grey Henry, J.C. Begley, Isaac Holub, and others will make notable appearances.

When is Unlocked: A Jail Experiment coming out via streaming?

Unlocked: A Jail Experiment Netflix is available to watch via streaming on Netflix on April 10, 2024 (Wednesday). Viewers will be able to stream it at this time.

Current Netflix subscribers will be able to watch the series when it airs, and if you havent already subscribed to the service, you can do so below:

Subscribe to Netflix

Unlocked: A Jail Experiments official synopsis reads:

At an Arkansas detention facility, a sheriff implements a radical social experiment to grant men who are incarcerated more agency in this reality series.

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Sean "Diddy" Combs helped mentor Usher and brought the then-teenage R&B singer to the East Coast to live with him in New York City for a year.

The musician recalled his early days in the business while chatting on the Howard Stern Show in a resurfaced clip from 2016.

"I moved to New York City and I lived with Sean Puffy Combs for a year," Usher said.

Stern mentioned, "That was L.A. Reid's idea, right? We're sending you to something called Puffy Flavor Camp."

RAPPER SEAN DIDDY COMBS' HOMES RAIDED BY HOMELAND SECURITY

Usher worked with Sean Combs (pictured in 2002) in the beginning of his career.

"In the 90s; do you understand what thats like?" Usher said, before Stern quipped, "Puffy's place was like just filled with chicks and orgying like non-stop, right?

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"Nah, not really. It was curious. I got a chance to see some things," Usher said.

SEAN DIDDY COMBS' ACCUSER ADDS CUBA GOODING JR. TO SEXUAL ASSAULT LAWSUIT

"Yeah, but you were 13. What were you seeing?" Howard asked.

The Atlanta-based musician noted, "I went there to see the lifestyle, and I saw it. And it was But I don't know if I could indulge and understand what I was even looking at. It was pretty wild. It was crazy."

Co-host Robin Quivers chimed in, "So nobody tried to, you know, some woman didn't come along"

JAMIE FOXX, AXL ROSE, SEAN COMBS AMONG VIPS NAMED IN SEX ABUSE SUITS BEFORE NEW YORK LAW EXPIRED

Usher laughed before adding, "I didn't say that. What I did say is that there were very curious things taking place, and I didn't necessarily understand it."

He noted that the parties were filled with industry heavy-hitters, including, "Biggie Smalls was there, Lil Kim, Craig Mack Faith Evans, Jodeci, Mary J. Blige."

Robin asked if his parents were "OK with everything," to which Usher said, "They didn't know nothing about this s---. I was having a good time."

Usher recently headlined the Super Bowl LVIII halftime show.

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"Does he having you doing any chores?" Stern wondered. "Are you doing dishes at all to keep you humble somewhat or are you just like, can you stay up till 4 in the morning with them and party?"

"I mean, I could. I actually stayed up longer than them," Usher said.

"You're a dad now, would you ever send your kid to Puffy camp," Howard asked, to which Usher quickly responded, "Hell no."

Sean Combs' Los Angeles home was raided Monday by Homeland Security officials, Fox News Digital confirmed. Agents were also seen at his home in Miami.

Sean Combs' LA home was raided by Homeland Security officials on Monday.

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"Earlier today, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation, with assistance from HSI Los Angeles , HSI Miami, and our local law enforcement partners," Homeland Security Investigations said in a statement.

"We will provide further information as it becomes available."

Officers stood near Combs' home in Los Angeles as part of the HSI investigation.

A U.S. official confirmed to Fox News that the raids on Diddy's homes are connected to a federal human trafficking investigation. It's unclear if the rapper is the target of the federal agents' investigation.

Representatives for Usher and Combs did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.





Original article source: Usher recalls living with Sean 'Diddy' Combs at age 14 in resurfaced clip: It was curious
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. Hungary will start receiving Turkish natural gas on April 1 and will become the first state outside Turkiye's circle of neighbors to export its gas, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said, Trend reports.

He made a remark after negotiations with the Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar, during Atomexpo-2024 in Sochi.

To note, Hungary and Turkiye signed an agreement on supplying 275 million cubic meters of Turkish gas in 2024 in the second and third quarters of this year.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Wondering what all the hype is about James Beard Foundation semifinalists?

The awards are widely considered the "Oscars" of the dining world because the restaurant industry doesn't have a lot of opportunities for awards. There are Michelin star ratings. They go back more than 120 years in Europe but didn't take hold in the U.S. until the 21st century. They only rate restaurants in New York, California, Chicago, Florida and Washington, D.C.

Scoring a James Beard is a path to national recognition for a restaurant or chef.

Rhode Island boasts 10 James Beard semifinalists for the 2024 awards. It's the best showing ever with four restaurants and one chef in national categories and five in the regional Best Chef Northeast category. The semifinalists come from Providence, Newport, Central Falls, Middletown, Bristol and Warren. The five finalists in each category will be announced on April 3 by the Beard Foundation.

I'm here to clue you in on the delights to be enjoyed dining at these nominated restaurants. Hint: Try everything.

Jahunger in Providence scored a James Beard nomination for Best Chef Northeast for Subat Dilmurat.

Tuxpan Taqueria

The Mexican kitchen at 355 Broad St. in Central Falls is one of 30 semifinalists for Best New Restaurant. It's your classic hole-in-the-wall restaurant with an unassuming appearance. It was once a doughnut shop and the drive thru window, though not in use, is still there.

Once you walk in, the warmth of the Alcantar family envelops you. They'll happily guide you through the menu posted on the counter and pose for photos while cooking.

The Alcantar family runs the James Beard nominated restaurant Tuxpan Taqueria. Mom Maria can be found cooking there along with her son Diego.

Diego Alcantar and his family came to Rhode Island from Tuxpan, a town in Michoacan, Mexico, and his restaurant career started as a dishwasher. He's preparing to open a second restaurant, Cielito Mexican Kitchen in downtown Providence. Meanwhile, his mother Maria is at Tuxpan, cooking on the grill and stovetop right behind the counter.

One of the colorful hangings at Tuxpan Taqueria, a Central Falls restaurant that has made the James Beard semifinalist list as Best New Restaurant.

The food is homestyle and approachable from the classic taco to the overstuffed burritos. The meat choices allow you to play it safe with steak, chicken or pork; or go daring with tripe or beef tongue. A chorizo option is appealing on a torta.

Not to be missed is the Pambazo, a Mexican sandwich with meat and diced potato in a roll dipped in red sauce. Don't miss grabbing a bunuelo for dessert. Delicate fried dough treats will remind you of wandis but even lighter.

There are a few tables here but mainly this is a takeout business.

Giusto

The modern Italian restaurant  found at 4 Commercial Wharf at Hammetts Hotel on the Newport waterfront  is a semifinalist for Outstanding Hospitality. This national category honors restaurants that foster a sense of hospitality while demonstrating consistent excellence in food, atmosphere and operations.

Check, check and check. Giusto is very much a reflection of owner Kevin O'Donnell who seems to do everything with ease.

Kevin O'Donnell is a two-time James Beard semifinalist. He's on the list for Giusto for Outstanding Hospitality.

He grew up in North Kingstown and worked at 22 Bowen's before starting at Johnson & Wales University. After his first year externship, he did all his learning on the job and worked at Del Posto in New York and opened a restaurant in Paris. His SRV in Boston was a semifinalist for James Beard Best New Restaurant in 2016.

The Fluff-O-Gato dessert served at Giusto is an elevated take on a affogato. The ice cream is graham cracker gelato, coated in a roasted marshmallow swirl and a chocolate shell.

ODonnell wanted the menu to set the tone for a fun, playful dining experience. Think elevated fried ricotta for an appetizer and a fancy affogato for dessert that pays homage to a Fluffer-Nutter. Don't miss either.

Service is flawless as well, from the cheerful welcome at the door to the advice on wine to the efficient delivery of food, even on the busiest of days.

Ricotta Frittelle at Giusto in Newport is a fried cheese ball served with drizzles of honey, truffles and Parmesan cheese.

Courtland Club

In 2007, Jason Schectman, a real estate professional, wanted to create a bar where hed like to drink. He succeeded not just in pleasing himself, but others. James Beard judges noticed and named his Courtland Club a semifinalist for Best Bar.

He's created a place that curates a selection of drinks that are served in a unique atmosphere. Every bar likes to call itself a speakeasy but Courtland Club really is. There are no markings on the building, just a number  51  on a quiet street between Broadway and Atwells Avenue.

The Courtland Club is a social club with a speakeasy vibe. Look for the 51 on Courtland St., in Providence to find the James Beard nominated bar.

The space was a bakery long ago and a social club most recently. From distressed brick walls to cozy sitting spaces and excellent drinks, it all comes together in delicious harmony, and mystery.

Last month, operation of the kitchen was taken over by Nimki by Nikhil Naiker. His New England Tropical menu pairs well with the cocktail menu which currently features plenty of infused spirits, spicy blends and cool tequila drinks. It's all eat, drink and be merry here.

Sky Hanuel Kim at Gift Horse

Sky Haneul Kim, chef at Gift Horse, 272 Westminster St., in Providence, is a semifinalist for "Emerging Chef." The category honors a young chef who displays exceptional talent and is likely to make a significant impact in years to come.

Providence's Gift Horse chef Sky Haneul Kim is a James Beard Foundation semifinalist for "Emerging Chef."

Kim is already making her talents known with delicious and clever dishes at the new restaurant from Ben Sukle and general manager/partner Bethany Caliaro.

Raw bar meets fusion meets the unexpected. Sauces include a kimchi mignonette and a fermented green chili hot sauce. Not to be missed are the smoked fish dip with puffed seaweed chips and the Hae Muchim with raw fish, cabbage, fried sweet potato, apple and spiced with gochujang.

Ordering a variety of small plates, including the warm Scallop Roll, is very satisfying here and the cocktails aren't to be missed though the wine list is lovely, too.

Delicious destinations: USA TODAY named its Restaurants of the Year. These Rhode Island favorites made the list

The vibe is pure fun with a horseshoe bar set up for socializing and allowing for a view into the kitchen.

The horseshoe-shaped bar at Gift Horse encourages diners to socialize, as well as giving them a view of the raw bar, the busy kitchen and the bartenders making their drinks.

Bywater

Nominated for Outstanding Restaurant among the best in the country is Bywater, the Warren eatery at 54 State St. The nomination is a first for owner Kate Dickson and her oyster bar which opened nine years ago.

The restaurant closed for a break just as the Beard nomination was announced on Jan. 24. According to social media posts, Dickson expects to reopen soon. She did not respond to an email for more information. Follow on Instagram for news.

Basil Yu at Yagi Noodles

At Yagi Noodles at 20 Long Wharf in Newport, Basil Yu is nominated for Best Chef Northeast. He specializes in handmade-from-scratch ramen and other creative dishes. He is a first-generation Chinese American with a Bachelor of Science degree in health sciences who grew up working in his parents' New Hampshire restaurant.

After cooking at the White Barn Inn in Maine and the Vanderbilt in Newport, he followed his passion to Japan and Singapore to study Asian cuisine. How lucky for Rhode Island diners that he and Kodi Keith opened Yagi first as a pop-up and now as a large, airy restaurant.

Chef Basil Yu has a James Beard nomination for Best Chef Northeast.

His ramen dishes are layered with flavors built from rich stocks, beautifully cooked mushrooms, greens, crisps, marinated meats and more. The staff at Yagi will take you through the menu to get you the dish of your dreams. Don't miss the Spicy Duck Miso if you like heat, and Tonkotsu pork ramen if you don't. Both are delicious and special.

The Seared Dumplings are light and divine and the deconstructed Bao buns a delight. The fried chicken Karaage is a nice starter. A vegetarian curry bowl Kare Raisu delivers more heat.

From the lovely art, to the elegant table settings to the drinks which include beer, wine, sake and milk teas with brown sugar boba, everything here is just perfect.

Yagi Noodles ramen bowls include Spicy Duck Miso with duck meatballs and Tonkotsu, rear, made with rich pork broth.

Subat Dilmurat at Jahunger

Find Jahunger at 333 Wickenden St. in Providence.

The setting at Jahunger, 333 Wickenden St. in Providence, is a soothing one. The walls are a soft cream, the tables dark and elegant and throw pillows soften the bank of wall seats. There are three-dimensional wall hangings. Everything says come on in.

So too does the food of Subat Dilmurat, Best Chef Northeast semifinalist. It will entice you in, with aromas that waft over Wickenden Street. He offers a taste of Uyghur Asian cuisine from a region in Northwest China.

Subat Dilmurat is the chef/owner at Jahunger Restaurant in Providence. He's nominated for the James Beard Best Chef Northeast award.

Starting with the noodle dishes (because who can resist handmade noodles), the textures are divine.

Laghman Noodle is a traditional dish for Uyghur, with hand-pulled noodles mixed with tender beef slices and a medley of vegetables. What makes the dish? It's what Dilmurat's wife and co-owner Nadira "Nadia" Parhat calls "an exquisite blend of spices." Indeed she's right.

The noodles are called long life noodles and they are tender as silk.

On the other hand, the Jahunger Noodle dish has noodles that boast a chewier, heartier texture. It's equally satisfying but different. This dish comes alive with dried chilies mixed in with tender beef, sichuan peppercorns, onions, garlic and Chinese chives.

There are plenty of vegetarian options you can explore here, too. You can learn some about the foods and see photos online at their new website jahunger.com. But to taste is know there's something special going on here.

Andy Teixiera of Newport Vineyards

Chef Andy Teixiera of Newport Vineyards.

At Newport Vineyards, 909 East Main Rd., in Middletown, chef Andy Teixeira has done everything from launching the menu at their Taproot Brewing to sourcing local ingredients and growing root vegetables, figs, lemons, mushrooms and all their herbs for his dishes. He's now added Best Chef Northeast nomination to his list of achievements.

It's a delight to sit at the bar or one of the tables by the Taproot brewing room. There you can enjoy a flight of freshly made beers with one of their signature communal sharing boards. A vegetarian antipasto features produce grown on the property as well as Narragansett Creamery cheeses and grilled bread using wild yeast sourdough from their grapes. Of course, Newport Vineyard wines are all available as well.

Right now his menu is served in Taproot from Wednesday to Sunday but they will go to seven days in April. When they have weddings they move Taproot up to the Overlook space, formerly Brix. The Tank Patio opens Memorial Day weekend.

Maria Meza at Dolores

Maria Meza opened her first family restaurant, El Rancho Grande, in Providence in 2008, and now cooks at Dolores, 100 Hope St. in Providence, where she has earned a James Beard Best Chef Northeast nomination.

Maria Meza and son Joaquin Meza, Jr. have been running restaurants in Providence since 2008. She's now a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef Northeast.

At Dolores, diners can enjoy her contemporary dishes from the Mixteca Region, in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. Try her Baja Fish Tacos made with beer-battered haddock. Don't miss a taste of one of her mole dishes, especially when made with Baffoni Poultry Farm chicken and their house-made tortillas. She can make any mole vegetarian, too.

You'll also want to score a seat at the bar and enjoy one of their mezcal selections or a custom margarita.

Soon, the Meza family led by Joaquin Meza Jr., will open a second restaurant at Track 15, the planned food hall in Providence. It's all a family affair.

Pete Carvelli at Foglia

Pete Carvelli, chef and owner of Foglia, a new plant based restaurant in Bristol.

How wonderful to have a plant-based chef on the James Beard semifinalist list for Best Chef Northeast. That's Pete Carvelli who led a whole other life before he opened Foglia at 31 State St. in Bristol in 2022. He was a lawyer who became a chef. He's been a vegetarian for years.

Carvelli's food is beautiful. The menu changes seasonally regularly but the way he styles and builds his dishes does not.

Beet Roses, feta, pickled red onion, Beet-Pistachio Crumble, Beet Emulsion from Foglia, a new plant based restaurant in Bristol.

You can enjoy his vegan pasta dishes including an Agnolotti with tofu ricotta or his housemade Pappardelle "Bolognese" or Fazzoletti, little handkerchiefs, with funghi filling. A Lion's Mane Mushroom filet will satisfy any meat lover. Also on the menu is a Saffron Risotto and an Eggplant Katsu.

Foglia also offers a chef's tasting menu with optional wine pairing. Many dishes have gluten-free options.

Bonus here: Desserts from the talented high school senior Piper McAloon who is headed for Johnson & Wales University in September. She's been there from the beginning.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: James Beard nominated restaurants in RI offer wide range of tastes
The White House on Tuesday suggested a North Carolina radio station was manufacturing controversy over the way an interview with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre ended, saying the station didnt air portions of it and attached a sound effect after Jean-Pierre hung up.

In the audio, Jean-Pierre called out WBT Charlotte news director Mark Garrison for an incredibly offensive and insulting question about President Joe Bidens health during the phone interview earlier in the day, and minutes later ended the chat by cordially thanking the interviewer for his time and hanging up.

The White House contended in a statement to The Daily Beast that Jean-Pierre had offered the interviewer seven minutes of her time, sandwiched between other interviews, and that the station was well aware of their own time constraints.

WBT Charlotte did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the White Houses statement.

Jean-Pierre appeared on the station the same day Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were in the Tar Heel State for a health care-related event with Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, in which the pair urged Congress to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits and lower prescription drug prices.

At one point during the aired interview, Jean-Pierre was asked whether Biden has dementia.

When I told a number of people that I was talking to you today, it was interesting, though, Garrison began. They all said, Would you please just ask her, Does the president have dementia? So before I move on from it, does he?

Mark, Jean-Pierre replied, I cant even believe youre asking me this question. That is an incredibly offensive question to ask.

But you know people ask it, Garrison responded.

AUDIO: Biden's Press Sec. Karine Jean-Pierre hangs up on radio host after he asked if Biden has dementia  pic.twitter.com/8vrmYMbImF  Breaking911 (@Breaking911) March 26, 2024

Recently, the Biden campaign has been working to counter attacks on the presidents mental acuity from Donald Trump, who will be 78 himself on election day. In his first major ad buy of the year earlier this month, the 81-year-old commander-in-chief addressed his age by using humor and connecting it to his years of experience in government. Biden exhibited the same attitude during his State of the Union address earlier this month.

While in Raleigh Tuesday, furthermore, Biden joked that he was only 40 years old, times two, plus one.

Jean-Pierre shot back at Garrison for questioning Bidens abilities, adding that that was taking them down a rabbit hole.

Let me be very clear about this: For the past several years, the president's physician has laid out in a very comprehensive way the presidents health. This is a presidentif you watch him every day, if you really pay attention to his record and what he has done, you will see exactly how focused hes been on the American people, how historic his actions have been, she said. And so Im not even going to truly, trulytake the premise of your question. I think it is incredibly insulting, and so we can, you know, move on to the next question.

Garrison continued: Gas prices and grocery prices thenbig topics in North Carolina, he said. How does Mr. Biden win votes when people dont have as much disposable income?

Jean-Pierre began by referencing Bidens upbringing.

Look, the president understands. He grew up in a middle-class family, a working-class family in Scranton, PA. He gets it, she said. He understands how difficult it is for American who are sitting around their kitchen table every month trying to figure out what theyre going to pay for.

After crediting Biden for the drop in gas prices over the past year, Jean-Pierre said that prices for eggs, milk, seafood and all the important groceries have gone down because of what this president has been able to do.

And with that, Jean-Pierre concluded, thank you so much, Mark. Have an amazing, amazing day.

The sound of a busy signal followed. She hung up, Garrison said, while another male in the studiowhose identity was not immediately knownseemed surprised. Wow! he exclaimed, later accusing Jean-Pierre of showing fragility in the face of Garrisons questions.

But in a statement to The Daily Beast, White House Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates suggested the radio station was ginning up controversy over the seemingly abrupt hang-up.

As she often does when the President travels, Karine had multiple back-to-back interviews with radio stations who were each offered seven minutes. Once the agreed-upon time was over, she called into the next interview so everyone could get their full time, Bates said. This particular station chose not to air the full interview and instead artificially attached a sound effect that our phones do not make when calls end.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to reschedule his delegation's visit to the White House after he canceled the trip on Monday, a U.S. official told ABC News on Wednesday.

"The prime minister's office has agreed to reschedule the meeting dedicated to Rafah. We are now working to find a convenient date," the official told ABC News.

Israel pulled its delegation earlier this week after the U.S. allowed, through abstention, for the U.N. Security Council to adopt a resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza for the remaining days of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan -- and potentially longer.

MORE: White House 'disappointed' Israel canceled delegation to discuss Rafah after UN cease-fire vote

The resolution called for the unconditional release of hostages being held by Hamas terrorists, though it did not explicitly tie that with a temporary cease-fire. The resolution further urged that the humanitarian pause should then lead "to a lasting sustainable ceasefire."

The White House said on Monday that it was "disappointed" and "kind of perplexed" that Israel canceled the delegation's planned visit to the U.S.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that the U.S. and Israel are working to set a date for the Israeli delegation's visit to discuss Rafah.

"We're working to set a date. The Prime Minister's Office agreed to reschedule this meeting," she told ABC's Selina Wang.

"We are working to convene ... that meeting, an important meeting on Rafah. And when we have a date, certainly we'll share that with you."

The decision to reschedule came after several members of President Joe Biden's Cabinet held "constructive discussions" with Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant this week in Washington, D.C., the official said.

PHOTO: In this Feb. 18. 2024, file photo, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, in Jerusalem. (Ronen Zvulun/Reuters, FILE)

The official said that Rafah, a city in the south of Gaza bordering Egypt, was "one of the many topics discussed" during meetings with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and CIA Director Bill Burns.

Netanyahu said that a victory against Hamas is "impossible" without the Israel Defense Forces entering Rafah to eliminate the rest of the terrorist group's battalions.

Hamas waged an attack on Israel on Oct. 7, which has led to months of conflict.

MORE: Austin to Israeli defense minister: 'Civilian casualties [are

In the Gaza Strip, more than 31,000 people have been killed by Israeli forces since Oct. 7, according to Gaza's Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health. In Israel, at least 1,200 people have been killed by Hamas and other Palestinian militants since Oct. 7, according to Israeli officials.

The White House has said Biden has "deep concerns" Israel will not do enough to prevent civilian casualties as it goes after Hamas fighters in Rafah.

The Israeli military said that it plans to direct many of the displaced Palestinians living in Rafah toward "humanitarian islands" in the center of the territory ahead of any invasion.

ABC News' Selina Wang and Sarah Beth Hensley contributed to this report.

Israel agrees to reschedule delegation visit to the White House: US official originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
The San Gregorio al Celio church, right, and the St. John and Paul Basilica are illuminated by the sunset light, in Rome, Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. | Andrew Medichini

Did you know Canada, Italy and India are some of the most spiritual countries you can visit? According to Wayfairer Travels Global Spirituality Index, these countries boast high religious diversity and many faith-related sites to see.

If youre wanting to make a pilgrimage, learn a nations faith-based ancestral stories, or find some physical or spiritual healing, consider visiting one of these countries and some of their famous spiritual sites.

What makes a country spiritual?

According to Wayfairer Travel, spirituality is a difficult concept to describe.

The University of Minnesota describes spirituality as a sense of connection to something bigger than ourselves, (involving) a search for meaning in life.

Its worth noting that being spiritual does not necessarily mean being religious.

Countries that had high spirituality in the Wayfairer Travel study were deemed to have religious diversity, freedom, tolerance and a large religious population.

Is America a spiritual country?

Wayfairer Travel ranked the United States as one of the top spiritual countries in the world. (It tied with other countries for third place.)

But how do Americans rate themselves?

A recent Pew Research Center study found that 70% of U.S. adults consider themselves spiritual.

Here are some of the other findings from that Pew report:

Adults who believe people have a soul or spirit: 83%.

Adults who say there is something spiritual beyond the natural world: 81%.

Adults who believe there are things science cannot explain: 74%.

Adults who had a sudden feeling of connection with something from beyond this world: 45%.

Adults who had a strong feeling that someone who has died was communicating with them: 38%.

Adults who have encountered a spirit or unseen spiritual force: 30%.

Top 10 most spiritual countries

According to Wayfairer Travels Global Spirituality Index, these countries, besides the U.S., have high religious diversity, freedom, sites, tolerance and population numbers.

1. Canada

Canada came out on top with high religious diversity, religious freedom, religious tolerance and quality of life, per Wayfairer Travel.

If youre interested in a spiritual road trip, consider doing the Lac Sainte Anne pilgrimage. This year, the main pilgrimage is set for July 20 to July 25.

Years ago, thousands would walk to Lac Sainte Anne, a large lake in search of healing and spiritual renewal, and to make new friends. This is the largest annual Indigenous religious and Catholic gathering in western Canada, according to Lac Ste. Anne Pilgrimage.

2. Italy

Italy follows Canada, scoring similar numbers for religious diversity, per Wayfairer Travel.

One spot to visit in Italy is the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi. Assisi, Italy, is a place where individuals go to connect with the teachings of Saint Francis, who embraced a life of poverty, simplicity and compassion, according to Sacred Wanderings.

3. India

India, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States are all tied for third place. Out of these countries, India has the highest religious diversity and the highest number of spiritual sites to visit, per Wayfairer Travel.

If in India, stop by Varanasi, the oldest city in the country. This site is sacred to Hindus.

Varanasis legends go back over 10,000 years, with stories of deities, the beginning of time and war. One includes the belief that if cremated in Varanasi, your soul will then be released from the cycle of Samsara, or reincarnation, according to Smithsonian Magazine.

4. Japan

Out of the four countries tied for third, Japan had the highest religious freedom and tolerance, per Wayfairer Travel.

The Ise Grand Shrine, which honors Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess, and Toyouke Omikami, the guardian deity of food and industry, is a beautiful place to visit.

Known as the birthplace of Japanese spirit, you can find shops selling candy, bags and other goods while walking along its streets, according to Hotels.com.

5. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has high religious diversity, per Wayfairer Travel.

One spiritual and popular location to visit is Stonehenge in Amesbury, Salisbury. The reason why the stone circle is aligned with the rising and setting of the sun at the solstices may be unknown, but the surrounding landscape has a lot of history.

You can find ancient burial sites and other ancient spiritual significant areas nearby, according to Historic England.

6. Mexico

Though ranked lower than seven other countries, Mexico has high religious diversity and tolerance, per Wayfairer Travel.

Mexico has multiple historical, spiritual sites to visit. For example, you could see Chichen Itza, the Mayan ruins Palenque or the Aztek pyramid in the Tepoztlan mountains. You can go on tours and to churches to hear more about the rich history, rituals or ghost sitings, according to Where Wonder Waits.

7. Australia

Australia has high religious diversity, religious freedom and quality of life for spiritual individuals, per Wayfairer Travel.

In Australia, you can visit the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. This place is significant to the Anangu of the Yankunytjatjara and Pitjantjatjara groups. These groups tell stories of how ancestral beings shaped the land. The beings anger and sorrow hardened to the sandstone we see today, according to YHA Australia.

8. Philippines

The Philippines, tying in rank with Australia, have high religious diversity, freedom and tolerance, per Wayfairer Travel.

If you need some healing, physically or mentally, try heading to Mount Banahaw in Quezon. The old volcano is said to restore health, be a place to see visions and show other miracles, according to Atlas Obscura.

9. Germany

The last two countries, Germany and Switzerland, are tied. Germany has high religious diversity, wellness and quality of life for spiritual individuals, per Wayfairer Travel.

You can go on a tour or visit the Aachen Cathedral, which is over 1,000 years old. Emperor Charlemagne, who started the construction in 796 A.D., is buried in the Cathedral. This cathedral is inspired by the Holy Roman Empire and is full of columns, shrines and altars. Furthermore, many kings and queens were coronated inside the church until after 1500, per Rough Guides.

10. Switzerland

Switzerland has high religious diversity, religious tolerance and quality of life for spiritual individuals, per Wayfairer Travel.

When in Switzerland, consider visiting Einsideln. Many individuals make a pilgrimage through the city to the Benedictine monastery to see the shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, according to Marks Travel Notes.
Canned pumpkin puree is a tried-and-true shortcut for pumpkin pie and beyond. Put a can of pumpkin to use with these sweet and savory recipes.

Jordan Provost / Food Styling by Thu Buser

When it comes to time-saving ingredients, few things can compete with a can of pumpkin puree. While you can certainly roast your own pumpkin for Classic Pumpkin Pie and other pumpkin dishes, canned puree cuts the prep time considerably and is often even preferred for its consistent texture (no stringy bits!) and flavor. Plus, you can use it to add earthy, slightly sweet flavor to dishes year-round.

Most canned pumpkin puree is made from the flesh of Dickinson pumpkins, also known as Dickinson squash. These tan pumpkins are much larger than field or carving pumpkins (aka the kind used for jack-o-lanterns), and have dense, sweet flesh compared to other varieties. When you're using pumpkin puree in sweet and savory dishes, make sure to buy unsweetened pumpkin puree and not cans labeled as pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and includes added spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.

These are our favorite ways to use a can of pumpkin puree, from weeknight pastas to effortless desserts.

Coconut Pumpkin Chicken Curry

Jordan Provost / Food Styling by Thu Buser

Thanks to canned pumpkin and coconut milk, this fragrant curry comes together in under an hour. Browned skinless chicken thighs and a can of chickpeas make it hearty enough for dinner.



Get the recipe

Pumpkin Bread

Matt Taylor-Gross / Food Styling by Barrett Washburne

Bring the scents of fall into your kitchen with this warmly-spiced pumpkin bread, which includes just 25 minutes of hands-on time. It's lightly sweetened with brown sugar, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Get the recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Diana Chistruga

This rich and flavorful soup relies on a can of pumpkin puree and a generous amount of heavy cream for its luscious texture. Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add extra coziness, while cayenne brings in a little heat.

Get the recipe

Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Jordan Provost / Food Styling by Thu Buser

These moist cupcakes include canned pumpkin and lots of cozy fall spices in the batter. They're balanced by a tangy cream cheese frosting and crunchy pumpkin seed garnish.

Get the recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

Jordan Provost / Food Styling by Thu Buser

The creamy and smoky sauce for this pasta dish gets whipped up in just a few minutes with pumpkin puree, butter, toasted rosemary, and bacon. Toss with pasta for an elegant weeknight meal.

Get the recipe

Pumpkin Soup with Thai Red Curry Paste and Lemongrass

Photo by Morgan Hunt Glaze / Food Styling by Ruth Blackburn / Prop Styling by Christina Daley

Thai red curry paste and canned pumpkin puree both add lots of flavor to the base of this fragrant soup. Coconut milk gives it an extra-creamy texture while lemongrass, ginger, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice brighten the flavors of each spoonful.

Get the recipe

Pumpkin Praline Bars

Victor Protasio / Food Styling by Margaret Monroe Dickey / Prop Styling by Christina Daley

These simple spiced pumpkin bars from chef Ouita Michel get their dense and cakey texture from canned pumpkin puree. A sweet icing and crunchy praline topping contrast beautifully with the earthy pumpkin cake layer.

Get the recipe

Pumpkin-Banana Bread French Toast

Photo by Jennifer Causey / Prop Styling by Julia Bayless / Food Styling by Ruth Blackburn

Canned pumpkin adds earthy flavor to homemade banana bread, which gets transformed into decadent French toast. Dipped in a spiced custard and cooked in butter, the bread gets irresistibly crispy on the outside.



Get the recipe

Pumpkin Tiramisu

 John Kernick

A silky pumpkin mascarpone mousse made with canned pumpkin gives this Italian dessert an autumnal spin. It's layered with classic espresso-soaked ladyfingers for a pumpkin spice latte-esque flavor.

Get the recipe

Pumpkin Hummus

 Christina Holmes

This effortless dip comes together with canned pumpkin and chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, cayenne, and salt and pepper. Serve with pita chips or crudites.

Get the recipe

Brown Butter Pumpkin Pie

 Abby Hocking

Bakers Emily Elsen and Melissa Elsen recommend canned pumpkin for this pie due to its consistent flavor and texture. The addition of browned butter in the filling gives their pumpkin pie riff a slight butterscotch flavor.

Get the recipe

Spicy Cheddar and Pumpkin Orzo with Arugula

 Sarah Bolla

Orzo soaks up a creamy and spicy sauce of pumpkin puree, grated cheddar, chili garlic sauce, mustard, and spices for this simple yet impressive dish. It's brightened up with fresh peppery greens just before serving.

Get the recipe

Pumpkin Layer Cake with Mascarpone Frosting

 Con Poulos

Canned pumpkin puree is a simple shortcut to earthy pumpkin flavor in the batter for this gorgeous layer cake. Tangy buttercream frosting perfectly complements the warm spices.

Get the recipe

Pumpkin Lasagna

A Karen Mordechai

No-boil noodles and canned pumpkin make this cozy dish easy enough for a weeknight. Nutty Parmesan, warm sage and nutmeg, and earthy Swiss chard bring it lots of fall flavor.

Get the recipe

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Caramel Swirl

A Alexandra Rowley

Pumpkin puree adds autumnal flavor to the simple cheesecake batter for these chocolate-crusted bars. A drizzle of caramel takes them over the top.

Get the recipe

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Read the original article on Food & Wine.


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Last week, Arizona state Sen. Eva Burch did the unthinkable: She announced her decision to get an abortion on the floor of the Arizona Senate. In her speech, which quickly went viral, Burch talked about the importance of access to abortion care in America and why she, as a politician, felt compelled to share her story in such a public manner. Now, in an exclusive essay for ELLE, Burch writes about that emotional moment on the Senate floorand why she wants to change the narrative about what abortion care looks like.

Two years ago I scheduled my first abortion. This was a pregnancy my husband and I had been dreaming of and planning for, but it wasnt progressing. Then, as if that news wasnt heartbreaking enough, I began to miscarry. The bleeding was heavier than expected, and we called an ambulance.

Shortly after we arrived at the hospital, my miscarriage stalled, and the bleeding stopped. Doctors could still see the embryo on the ultrasound, but there was no longer a heartbeat. I was told that I couldnt have an abortion in the hospital, because my life wasnt in danger. Instead, doctors advised me to wait and go to my scheduled abortion appointment the next day. They said their hands were tied, and it was all they could do. Two weeks later, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.

Fast forward to this year, and I found out that I was pregnant once again. My mother had just passed away in my home where I was caring for her, and it was hard not to believe this was a sign that this pregnancy might be different. But after several ultrasounds, it became clear that my pregnancy was, once again, not progressing as it should. I made the decision to have an abortion.

Courtesy Sen. Burch

For far too long, political extremists have worked to rewrite the image of the abortion patientworking overtime to make us believe that the only people who seek out abortion care are promiscuous, selfish, irresponsible, or even lazy. This narrative is pushed to create stigma and justify bad laws.

Im a 44-year-old happily married mother of two. Im a nurse practitioner and state senator in Arizona. I dont fit that narrative, and I refused to let this moment pass me by without setting the record straight. Last week, I said my piece before the state. I waited until legislative business was done for the day, then hit my request-to-speak button to be recognized. I rose to tell my abortion story surrounded by my Democratic colleagues. By mid-week, I was fortunate enough to undergo my planned abortion with no complications. I chose to have an IUD placed at the same time.

Sometimes it feels like a bad dream; my first abortion was days before the Supreme Court stripped away the reproductive rights of millions of Americans. Here I am, standing in that position once again, as the Supreme Court hears oral arguments on Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which will decide how patients can access mifepristone, one of two drugs (along with misoprostol) used in medication abortions.

My own experience has been marred by disinformation and obstacles created by out-of-touch elected officials. If SCOTUS once again chooses to side with extremists, it will make medication abortion much harder to get. And we know these attacks wont stop there. While SCOTUS decides just how much bodily autonomy we are entitled to, the Arizona Supreme Court is weighing the decision to either uphold our states current 15-week abortion ban or reinstate our no-exceptions total ban on abortion that was enacted in 1864. Either way, Arizonans lose. And similar scenarios are playing out in states all across the country.

I cant find a way to say this with more clarity: Our rights are on the chopping block, and they wont be protected unless you show up to vote in November. As a legislator, I am well aware of how hostile Republicans can be to our rights and freedoms. I work with them every day. Some Arizona Republicans are so far out of touch, that they refused to even consider or discuss the Right to Contraception Act that was introduced by my Democratic colleagues. So we know exactly what they are coming for next. It will never be enough.

I share my story in the hopes that we can change the narrative about what abortion care looks like, who the abortion patient is, and how legislation impacts real people seeking abortion care. The overwhelming amount of love that I have received and the willingness of strangers to tell me their own stories gives me hope that November will be a time of celebration, not heartbreak. We have the power to write our own stories. Lets do it together. Get registered to vote. Learn about the candidates on your ballot. Bring friends to the polls.

Abortion is on the ballot, and we must elect politicians up and down the ticket who will remain committed to restoring our fundamental freedomsand who protect us from those who seek to take away our rights, our stories, and our futures.

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Norfolk Southerns activist investor has outlined a three-year proposal to cut costs at the rail company and establish infrastructure to support the precision scheduled railroading (PSR) operating model.

In a 14-page letter to Norfolk Southern shareholders on Tuesday, Ancora Holdings said it had plans to cut the companys operating ratio from 67.4 percent of revenue to 57 percent within the 36-month stretch.

More from Sourcing Journal

The culmination of Norfolk Southerns ongoing proxy fight with Ancora will occur May 9 with a vote at the railroad operators annual shareholder meeting.

The vote will determine whether Alan Shaw stays on as CEO of the railroad, and whether new chief operating officer John Orr will keep his position. Additionally, seven current board members could be ousted in favor of Ancoras director candidates.

In the first 100 days of the potential new regime, Ancora would begin listening tours with employees and customers, before establishing a network redesign in September 2024 and implementing PSR in October and November.

Shaws tenure at the Atlanta-based rail company has been criticized by Ancora, namely for lagging competitors in certain growth metrics like operating ratio and revenue, as well as the companys train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio last year that made national news for its spillage of hazardous chemicals.

Ancora also has called out Norfolk Southern for its declining service levels like train speed, terminal dwell and volume transported in recent years, further underlining the hedge funds calls to shift to a PSR model, which involves consolidating rail networks through the use of point-to-point delivery tactics and more consistent departure schedules.

Shaw still has his support from 37 unions across transportation nodes, with the AFL-CIOs Transportation Trades Department head Greg Regan saying that replacing him as CEO doubles down on a failed strategy.

The unions, as well as many rail workers and industry analysts alike, are highly critical of the controversial PSR operating model that Ancora is calling on Norfolk Southern to implement, saying it is a detriment to service quality and safety due to staff cuts and longer trains.

Norfolk Southern was in the midst of debuting a PSR operating plan in 2019 under then-CEO Jim Squires, before pulling an about-face on the decision in 2022, instead opting to run what it calls a resilience railroading strategy. The model emphasized more resources in down freight periods, with the intent to pick up extra market share from under-resourced trucks and rail competitors when market conditions improve.

Ancora, on the other hand, claims that the resilience model only led to difficulty handling trough volumes, blaming it for the railroads 72 percent merchandise on-time arrival record.

On March 20, Norfolk Southern announced it replaced chief operating officer Paul Duncan with Orr, the executive vice president and chief transformation officer of another Class I Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC). Norfolk Southern is ponying up $25 million to CPKC to waive a non-compete clause Orr had signed when working for the rail competitor.

Ancora had wanted to replace for Duncan, but with its own candidate, former CSX executive vice president of operations Jamie Boychuk. The hedge fund criticized Norfolk Southerns decision on the grounds that Orr hasnt had experience at an Eastern U.S.-based railroad, and that the board rejected the opportunity to speak with Boychuk.

On the other hand, the rail company wasnt as enthralled with Boychuk due to leaving his last two companies under uncertain circumstances. They noted margins deteriorated by 400 basis points (4 percentage points) during his tenure at CSX, with mainline accident rates increasing by 76 percent.

If this multi-faceted process is carried out by Messrs. Barber and Boychuk, Norfolk Southern can reduce its operating ratio to the low 60s within 12 months, Ancora argued in the Tuesday shareholder letter. Assuming they are successful, Norfolk Southern will then be able to achieve a significantly higher valuation and start delivering higher-margin volume based on consistently stronger service and new leaderships relationships with a broader spectrum of domestic and international shippers.

Later that day, Norfolk Southern sent out a letter of its own to shareholders once again throwing support behind its 13 highly qualified and experienced director nominees.

It is this cohort of extremely talented and experienced directors that Ancora would have shareholders dismantle and replace with inferior nominees who the board has determined lack the necessary qualifications to serve on the board, said the letter. They are being put forward solely as part of Ancoras campaign to remove management and take control of the board to implement Ancoras ill-conceived and reckless strategy. Ancoras attempt is not only unwarranted, it would introduce significant risk to our strategy and result in value destruction for our shareholders.
Well, its still Womens History Month. Are you ready to feel some patriarchy-driven rage? Because once you watch this video, that is all you will feel, I guarantee it.

I dont even have words. Just press play and see this for yourself.

Im a Minneapolis based pilot for Delta airlines.



Tell me what a typical workweek is like for you as a stewardess. pic.twitter.com/ty7fWeNTYH  Yashar Ali (@yashar) March 14, 2024

Yep. In that clip, Laura Haynor introduced herself as she testified during a hearing in front of Minnesota legislators.

My name is Laura Haynor, and Im a Minnesota resident and a Minneapolis-based pilot for Delta Airlines, she said.

During questioning, Minnesota state senator Gene Dornink asked her, what a typical workweek is like for you as a stewardess.

Cool. Cool cool cool.

Immediately, several people shouted at Dornink that Haynor was a pilot. And God bless Haynor for keeping her cool as she calmly corrected him, saying, Im a first officer for Delta. Im a pilot for Delta.

Dornink then apologized for the error, saying, Im so sorry. I apologize. I dont know why I said that, Im so sorry.

The thing is, though, we all know why he said that.

Youre a woman, so you must be a stewardess, Minnesota U.S. representative Ilhan Omar wrote on social media in a handy translation, in case anyone didnt get the subtext.

During Women's History Month?!



Youre a woman, so you must be a stewardess. AND not listening to a word shes saying.



Let's take a moment to check our own biases and assumptions. https://t.co/snvQHMQTf7  Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) March 15, 2024

Never mind the fact that he called her a stewardess, a job title that stopped being a thing right around the time in-flight cigarettes were banned and Pan-Am went out of business.

"I don't know why I said that."



Is it because you're a sexist dickwad with his head stuck in the 1950s?  StrictlyChristo (@StrictlyChristo) March 14, 2024

He went on to say: "ok, ok, don't get all hysterical toots"  calle ocho chic (@Inspectah8) March 14, 2024

Sadly, this is typical behavior Ive seen and experienced from the older male generation. Stereotyping still exists.  Silvina (@SilvinaFlorida) March 15, 2024

She: I am pilot.

He: Make me a sandwich!  Konst (@Konstan11034637) March 15, 2024

So uh, yeah, if we had to guess, he said it because of misogyny. Yep. Thats it.

Oh, and to add another layer to this whole situation, Haynor was testifying on behalf of Air Line Pilots Association International, which represents 2,400 pilots, in support of amendments to Minnesotas sick and safe time law, which provides guaranteed time off for illness, medical treatments, and care for family members. The law also covers safety leave so employees can seek help and care in cases of domestic violence and sexual assault, which dispproportionately affect women.
In the words of Blanca Canales, recorded in Jimenez de Wagenheim Olgas book Nationalist Heroines: Puerto Rican Women History Forgot, This was the moment to rise and let the world know we are a people who want to be free. Canales, a high-ranking member of the Nationalist Party of Puerto Rico, was the only woman to lead one of the most historic and significant rebellions by Puerto Rico against the United States government.

For the Nationalist Party, staging an armed occupation was the only option Puerto Ricans had to demonstrate their dedication to self-determination. They believed that Puerto Ricans had for too long relied on electoral politics to produce long-lasting change, as voting had only provided them with different versions of the same institution. According to de Wagenheim Olga's book, the Nationalists believed that independence for the island would be achieved only through the continued agitation of the United States, whereby the group would demonstrate to US leaders the unsustainability of maintaining a colony.

Canales, born on February 17, 1906, in Jayuya, Puerto Rico, was no stranger to the fight for the islands independence. The seeds for her activism and political participation had been planted early in her youth: Her mother had always been an independentista, while her father was a member of the Partido Union de Puerto Rico (Union Party of Puerto Rico).

Blanca Canales was a student at the University of Puerto Rico. After she attended a talk by Nationalist Party leader Pedro Albizu Campos, she decided to join the party, in 1931. It can be said that Canales, alongside many other young Puerto Ricans, bore witness to the islands transition from Spanish colonization to occupation by the United States and viewed the Nationalist Party as a viable path to a Puerto Rico liberated from subjugation.

Back in 1898, after the Spanish-American War, the United States obtained control of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. Since then, Puerto Rico has been recognized as an unincorporated territory of the US with commonwealth status. Early in the island's occupation, the US established a military government, which ordered freedom of assembly, speech, press, and religion, and eventually introduced the eight-hour workday for government employees, the public school system, and the postal service.

The United States continued to integrate the island by granting citizenship to Puerto Ricans in 1917, upon ratifying the Jones-Shafroth Act. This also produced a bill of rights and separated the existing government into three branches  executive, legislative, and judicial  modeled on the US. Though these were all seeming improvements, the act was passed alongside legislation that disenfranchised Puerto Ricans and restricted their rights through a discriminatory implementation of constitutional rights. Specifically, a string of Supreme Court decisions, known as the Insular Cases, argued that because of the perceived racial inferiority and lack of civility of Puerto Ricans, they should not have access to the same rights and protections as white American citizens. These cases included Balzac v. Porto Rico (1922), which decided that Puerto Ricans on the island did not have the right to a jury trial in criminal cases.

The US occupation of the island signaled the start of a new struggle for liberation. At the forefront of this fight was the Nationalist Party of Puerto Rico, which was founded on September 17, 1922, and famously led by Albizu Campos, who was also an attorney and politician.

Beginning in 1930, the organization's primary goal was to gain independence for the island. Albizu Campos and other members of the Nationalist Party viewed independence gained through armed occupation as the only way to change the islands political and economic status. To remain a colony would mean limited autonomy. The objective of independence became Albizu Camposs life mission, and he lived by the slogan, The homeland is valor and sacrifice.

The Nationalist Party, its practices rooted in a call for self-determination, like other political parties and civil rights organizations, was led primarily by its male members. At the time, women were relegated to domestic roles and tasks, despite their participation in sometimes dangerous protests, such as the Ponce Massacre in 1937, during which Dominga de la Cruz-Becerril raised the Puerto Rican flag, and the 1954 attack on the House of Representatives, when Lolita Lebron was the only woman to participate. Today many of the roles and contributions of women have been overlooked and their names forgotten.

On October 30, 1950, members of the Nationalist Party led by Canales, following Albizu Camposs directive to take up arms and start the revolution to stop the Constitution, entered the town of Jayuya intending to seize control of it. Canales and her comrades had spent a year planning what became known as the Jayuya Uprising. They taught themselves and others how to use firearms they had stockpiled on Canales farm, not knowing when the time would come for them to stage a confrontation.

On October 26, just four days before the uprising, the government was tipped off to the party's plans and conducted a series of raids and arrests. Canales realized the confrontation they had been preparing for was no longer an abstract future date but something they had to face now. For Canales, her fidelity to the party, its oath, and an independent Puerto Rico would be tested.

National Guard Surrounding Nationalist House Bettmann

There were many reasons the rebellion had been planned, but the passage of the Ley de la Mordaza, in 1948, was ultimately the catalyst. The Gag Law, as it was commonly referred to in English, made it illegal to own or display the Puerto Rican flag, as well as to speak or write about independence, even to sing a patriotic tune. Canales and the Nationalist Party viewed this as a violation of their First Amendment rights  and an obvious attempt to silence party members and intimidate potential members from joining.

This law was another instance in which the United States wielded its control over the island and forced acculturation. On the day of the uprising, Canales took the Puerto Rican flag off the wall and asked the other members to pledge allegiance to it and the liberty of the island, a nod to both the flags importance in previous protests and its illegality.

As the group traveled to Jayuya, Blanca said, she imagined herself as Joan of Arc going off on a crusade. After arriving in town, according to de Wagenheim Olgas book, Canales went to the telephone station and attempted to cut the wires in order to suppress the towns ability to communicate, but discovered she didnt have the proper tools. In the process of rummaging through her bag, Blanca's revolver fell out and scared the operator, who responded by saying shed lock the station and hide. Canales then made her way to the River Palace Hotel, where she climbed the stairs to a balcony and unfolded the flag, waving it a few times as she declared Puerto Rico to be a free republic, a subversive act that rejected the Gag Law and the governmental control of the United States and the island.

During this uprising, Canales comrade Carlos Irizarry was shot in the chest, and because she had been responsible for transportation, she drove him to get medical attention. Before doing so, though, she passed her revolver to an associate and did the same with the flag, wanting it to be flown at City Hall.

Shortly after getting Irizarry to a doctor, Canales was arrested, charged by the District of Arecibo with three counts of attempted murder, setting fire to the Jayuya police station, and destruction of town property. Additionally, she was charged by San Juans District Court with conspiring to overthrow the government, possession of an unregistered firearm, and by the United States Federal Court with conspiracy to destroy federal property, forced entry into a US post office, destruction of postal material, setting fire to the post office, and damage to other federal property. In her testimony, Canales maintained her innocence regarding the fires and other charges, but the district attorneys insisted she had been the mastermind.

Canales role in the uprising resulted in her dismissal from employment at the Department of Health, being sentenced to 10 years in prison by the United States Federal Court, and life in prison and 6 to 14 years for three attempted-murder charges; she served 17 years before being released in August 1967. Her imprisonment mirrors the experiences of other Nationalist Party members, but also those in other groups, movements, and organizations who fight for liberation and rights.

In many ways, the actions and organizing of the Nationalist Party functioned in parallel to those of the Civil Rights Movement. Though the Civil Rights Movement was largely nonviolent, both groups were fighting for the right to exist in a society that incessantly withheld rights and liberty, and members of both groups organized protests in which they used their bodies to occupy space central to their subordinate positions. They understood the potential danger of their political acts, but also recognized that without direct action, things would not change.

Their advocacy work overlapped in various ways, particularly regarding legislative rights. Until the passage of the Voting Rights Act (1965), which enforced the voting rights protected by the 14th and 15th amendments, racial minorities were still subjected to disenfranchisement. Similarly, prior to 1950, Puerto Ricans didnt possess the authority to produce their own constitution, let alone choose who would fill administrative roles such as governor.

The independence the Nationalist Party so desperately sought and fought for never came. Puerto Rico remains a territory of the United States today, though it has since been afforded a modicum of self-rule. Still, its congressional representation in Washington is limited, as only a single member, known as the resident commissioner, is allowed and does not have voting power. The territorial clause of the US Constitution gives Congress authority to govern the island, leaving it without legislative and economic sovereignty. Puerto Ricans, despite having citizenship, are not able to vote in presidential elections, unless they reside on the mainland.

Canales died on July 25, 1996, in Jayuya. Despite her imprisonment and surveillance by the United States, which continued until her death, Canales' committment to independence never wavered. Even if it took 100 years, she believed, Puerto Ricans had to keep fighting.

Despite her significant contributions to Puerto Ricos fight for independence, Canales name  as with other women in the Nationalist Party  has largely been consigned to the periphery of history. She was memorialized by the town of Jayuya when her family home was turned into Museo Casa Canales, a museum where each room in the house is dedicated to a member of the Canales family and visitors can see some original furniture and objects owned by the family.

In one room, an extraordinary display of artifacts from the revolution can be found, such as the original flag and the items Canales carried in her pocketbook on the day of the Jayuya Uprising, including receipts, a gun, family photos, and her social worker registration card. Canales is also represented in a plaque placed in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, honoring participants of the uprising.

Though Canales and her comrades were not successful in attaining independence for Puerto Rico, their actions remain a symbol of the sacrifices many have made over the last hundred years. Puerto Rico's Nationalist Party is relatively less active today, but Puerto Ricans continue to follow the path of Canales, fighting for a future in which the island is finally freed from its colonialist shackles.

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Shop Talk |

By Kaitlin Menza

In Business of Homes series Shop Talk, we chat with owners of home furnishings stores across the country to hear about their hard-won lessons and challenges, big and small. This week, we spoke with Yancey Kenna Martin, an interior designer and owner of Mosaic Home & Market in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

I tried everything else along the way until I got here, says Martin. I was always so close. Shes not kidding: Her career includes stints in New York and Los Angeles, across fashion PR, advertising, branded content and creative direction. The jobs and cities honed her concepts of creativity, while her sense of style was born closer to home. Id grown up in Atlanta, and my grandmothers were really intrepid travelerswomen who put together beautiful homes that were unique. Nothing cookie-cutter or mass-produced about them, she explains. When I started decorating my own home, I realized there was so much I had yet to learn about this industry. I was just captivated.

Following a walkabout in Morocco and Turkey (which inspired her to begin importing rugs and textiles from both countries), a design degree from UCLA online, and too many long drives on sourcing trips to Nashville and Atlanta, she settled in Chattanooga and opened Mosaic Home & Market last November. In a conversation with BOH, she explains why the city responds to maximalism; the importance of top-notch branding; and the role of her in-store dog, Hank.

Whats the aesthetic of the store, and how is it set up?

Everything in the store is artisan-made, and we focus on color, pattern and texture. Upstairs in Mosaic Home, weve got ceramics from Morocco and Italy, porcelain from Greece, marbled clay from France, great lines of resin bowls from Vietnam, pottery from Peru. Color is a big tenent of ours. The store floor has set the tone: We put lattice up on the walls and painted it this really rich green, which is an instant pop of color in this cottagey building. Downstairs in the Market, its that same approach of small-producer, super-high-quality food, and its all meant to be take-and-bake. Short preparation time [allows you] to get to sitting around the table and catching up with your friends and family more quickly.

Who are your customers? Is there a trade shopper?

We are just in the process of getting the word out to the trade, but we had a couple designers come do a pull for a photo shoot last week. The majority of our customers are local Chattanooga residents. Its a lot of new faces.

The trellised interior of Mosaic Home & Market, where Martin takes pride in her selection of ceramics - Photo Credit Sarah Catherine Photo

What is the Chattanooga design scene like?

We have some unbelievable talent, and its a really refined taste. There are a couple of mountains that people live on and a river through downtown, so its got this sense of being in nature. A lot of the homes here are more secluded and private. And the design scene. Theres one store in town, Revival, that has done so much for the community in terms of offering antiques and furniture. They have absolutely impeccable taste; I work with them a lot for my [design] clients. But they stick to a more neutral palette, and I felt like there was some opportunity in the color, texture and artisan angles.

Your style is very funky. Is it ever a hard sell in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga is this pretty cool pocket in the South. Its a progressive city that has a huge focus on the arts. The Hunter Museum of American Art here is best in class. People here really love their art, and that comes to life in public spaces and parks. So theyre not afraid to be funky and eccentric. I would say theres just a little bit more personality; I love Nashville, but it has kind of fallen into the sea of sameness in terms of design. Thats just not the mentality here.

In terms of finding my [design] clients, saying no is the best thing that I ever learned, because its a marriagea very deeply personal relationship that you embark on for a couple yearsand you want everyone to be happy. Having the store has actually made it easier, because if youre not jibing with what Im putting out there, then youre not going to like my overall design. That doesnt mean I dont shift things based on my clients preferences, but its nice to have a physical calling card for them to see if this is something that theyd be interested in.

Can you tell me about a few more of your favorite vendors?

Ashley Folkner creates paper flowers that are out of this world in terms of quality. I also have loved working with this London-based artist Cressida Bell. She does hand-painted lamps that are very inspired by the Bloomsbury Group; her parents were actually members, and her great-aunt was Virginia Woolf. I had found her maybe eight years ago, when she was published in a magazineit was just this tiny little lamp in the corner, and Ive had it saved on my phone for all these years, ready to one day be able to bring in her pieces. I also work with a local artist named Kate Roebuck, who does these incredible prints that are very Matisse-inspired. Shes been in galleries all over New York and Nashville, and its been so cool to support the local artists that I am in awe of.

Also, I carry this line of ceramics from Puglia, Italy, that are all hand-painted, and each one is different. I discovered them on my honeymoon, and Ive been chasing down this artist for years. It was the first thing I ordered for my store. They dont speak great English. I was WhatsApping with some Italian folks and transferring the money and very much like, Oh, God. Here we go! Six months later, this beautiful shipment arrived at my door. The way my store is, I cant really just go to the market or these big trade shows and furnish the whole store. Theres a lot of, Sometimes this is going to be great, and sometimes this might not work out. But its the risk that makes it fun.

Martin says that she takes a lot of risks when sourcing vendors, like when she placed an order with an Italian vendor who spoke no English - Photo Credit Sarah Catherine Photo

Whats your favorite category or product?

I have a special soft spot for all things ceramic. My favorite thing in the store is this marbled Aptware, which comes from France. Each piece is layered with multiple levels of clay and then sanded down and finished with a clear glaze. [It] takes weeks to make, and each one is completely unique. I havent seen something as interesting as that in a while. I love the one white thing that we carry, a line of Peruvian-produced ceramics called Montes Doggett. Everything is so sculptural and odd. If I am going to do a neutral, I want it to feel very hand-formed.

Its still early days, but is there a product that flies out the door?

Every time we get a shipment of these Moroccan bowlseither the fruit bowls or the larger rounds for displaying lemons and pomegranates in your kitchenthe minute we get em in-store, those are typically gone.

Do you anticipate your approach to sourcing changing over time? How do you keep looking for fresh stuff, while also keeping the vendors you love?

I have a propensity to gravitate toward the new, and I do think that theres a certain level of expectation that Im settinggood or badfor my customer that it will feel new, and there will be new lines brought in. Instagram has allowed me to connect with people all over the world [by] doing some deliberate searching and really getting deep in there. Ive found some incredible artists. But the goal is also to travel and meet people who maybe arent as tech-savvy, and go find the people who have been doing this for generations. Im going to France this September on a scouting trip. I dont want to just fall back on social media. I want to make face-to-face human connections and see these artists in their spaces, so that I can tell their stories.

Are you planning to launch e-commerce?

Yes, we are very close to launching, hopefully within the next few weeks. We just got everything shot last weekend. It makes me nervous because thats not something Ive done in the past. Im sure therell be some trial and error, but Im very excited to open up to a broader audience.

You have such consistent and distinctive branding on your site and social media, with the borders around each Instagram photo. Was that a priority for you before launch?

Honestly, the branding was the first thing that I imagined. One of my favorite design groups, Pierce & Ward, put out a book with Rizzoli a few years ago, and I was just so taken with the style of the book that I looked at the inside cover to figure out who had designed it. It was this woman named Bobbie Richardson in New York, and I reached out to her about doing my branding. She probably got more than shed asked for, because I was very clear in what I wanted, but she did such a great job of bringing it to life. The borders were a trick that I learned from my advertising days, because I realized I wasnt going to have the budget to shoot all of my product early onsome things would be shot on white, in situ, and I wanted a way for this to feel consistent as a Mosaic post. A lot of the borders are from fabrics that I use or artists that I love. It allows for a shortcut of Oh, OK, thats a Mosaic post for anyone scrolling, and it ties back to the vibe of the store. We love color, we love pattern, we love borders. We are maximalist! That was my favorite part of the whole process. Bobbie knocked it out of the park.

Tell me more about the element of prepared food.

Theres a store that I would go to growing up that had a market component. It started as a farmers market, and you would get casseroles or pot pies, and then it grew and added a home element. But the home element was very chintzy, cheap and seasonal.

Since, as my husband always says, Im better at reheating than cooking, Im always looking for the shortcuts. Were about to launch wine, too, hopefully in the next month or so, to be a one-stop shop for people. What the food does is [give] people a reason to come in multiple times a week. It takes me out of just the home category and allows for a broader audience. It got men in there! And it creates a more approachable environment than a traditional home store.

The Market section of the shop features a mix of gourmet prepared foods - Photo Credit Sarah Catherine Photo

How did you figure out which foods to carry?

A lot of R&D. My husband and I pretty much just ate and ate for the last year. [We found the foods we carry by] going to different markets and seeing what vendors they were using. I want people to come there and love the food, so I asked for really honest feedback. The chicken salad we carry is from a company in Atlanta, two hours away, that I grew up eating, and its incredible. I reached out, asked if they would be sold in our store, and they agreed. Now, it hasnt always been that easy! Ive gotten a lot of nos. But Im constantly looking, seeing who can get FDA-compliant and all that.

Another regular draw has got to be this shop dog, right?

Thats Hank, a rescue we got about a year and a half ago. He has been a big fan of being found, and now has horrible separation anxiety, so he goes everywhere with me. He is a great face for the store; hes always curled up on a sofa or greeting guests. He takes his job very seriously.

You did a pop-up for Valentines Day. Can you tell me a bit about that, and what kind of events you might have in the future?

Again, I want to focus on artisans and expand outside of the verticals were selling in. A dear friend of mine, Alex Sachel, is a fabulous stylist in town. She has great connections with small designers all over the world. We did this pop-up around Valentines Day and well do another for Mothers Day, where we bring in three or four clothing and jewelry designers. Ive got Rebecca Pinto displaying some stuff now. It is just a great foot-traffic driver. These events are fun. The more reasons you can give people to come in, the better, but it also allows me to play in different spaces that I love. I love fashion, I love jewelry, but Im by no means an expert. Now I have this space where I can bring the experts in.

What are the hopes you have for the future of your business? Do you see product lines? Expansion?

I have my design business in parallel to this, and where Im really excited is when those things are going to overlap. Ive just started production on a line of custom ottomans inspired by a piece that I saw at the Paris flea market. Thats where I want to growintroducing a couple of proprietary items and lines I can work with these artisans to create for the store. And I want to grow the antiques side. I want to be the place for that incredibly special one-off piece that is going to make such a statement in your house.

Whats your favorite day as a shop owner?

Wednesdays and Thursdays are the most fun days at the store. People are starting to come out; theyve shaken off their Monday and Tuesday. We get the chicken salad delivered every Wednesday, so thats become this day where everyone flocks to the shop. I see the most people and get to catch up with the most folks.

In terms of the routine, Im so grateful that Ive got a couple of girls working at the store so that I can have my morning to catch up on work and email and design stuff. Then I try to go into the store, on average, from 12 to 4:30 every day. I think its important for people to get to know me, and Im the gatekeeper of all the information and stories. Then I grab some dinner from Mosaic Market and come home and hang out with my husband and my dog.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. The International Energy Forum urges governments to finalize the agreement on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which provides a framework for countries to trade carbon credits internationally and is considered critical to meet national emissions targets, said Joseph McMonigle, Secretary General of the International Energy Forum, Trend reports.

He made the remark at the launch of a report entitled "The Role of Carbon Markets in Transitions".

"Agreement on Article 6 is key to unlocking the potential of international carbon markets and we hope to see more progress at COP29 in Azerbaijan," he said.

According to McMonigle, carbon markets will play an important role in achieving climate, energy security, and sustainable development goals by boosting the efficiency of energy transitions and raising money for clean energy projects.

"Carbon markets play an important role in aligning resources to achieve our global climate, energy security, and affordability goals. But they are at an inflexion point. With stronger international collaboration and smart regulation, they can raise billions of dollars for clean energy projects, especially in the developing world, that would otherwise not get off the ground," he added.

This November, Azerbaijan will host COP29. This decision was made at the COP28 plenary meeting held in Dubai on December 11 last year. Baku will become the center of the world and will receive about 70-80,000 foreign guests.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. COP- the Conference of the Parties - is the highest legislative body overseeing the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. 198 countries are parties to the Convention. Unless the parties agree otherwise, the COP is held annually. The first COP event took place in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn.
Store manager Rhonda Eppers and cheese maker Fred Sebold work with the rest of their small team to make their cheese curds at Nasonville Dairy in Curtiss, Wisconsin on Friday, March 22, 2024. Gabi Broekema/USA TODAY NETWORK- Wisconsin

It's early on a Friday and I'm standing in the small retail store at the Nasonville Dairy factory a few miles west of Abbotsford.

A few people are already getting their weekend cheese fix. Workers scurry about behind the counter, filling bags with fresh curds. There's a milky, yeasty smell in the air. The cheese curds are still warm from the vat located in the cheesemaking plant behind the store.

I get to my car, open the bag, and put a warm curd in my mouth. Oh maaaaan. Is there any food better than the first squeaky, salty, buttery first bite of a fresh cheese curd? I don't think so.

This Nasonville Dairy factory is located just off State 29, and it's often a must-stop when my wife and I travel west to Minnesota's Twin Cities from our home in Wausau.

We stock up on curds and other dairy products to give to our Minnesota friends. And for ourselves, too. There are several cheese factories and factory-direct retail outlets selling Wisconsin cheese on the heavily-traveled roads of State 29 and Interstate 94. Here are five cheese factories and retail stops you can visit in west-central Wisconsin.

Store manager Rhonda Eppers and coworker Karen Brecke finish the process and bag freshly made cheese curds at Nasonville Dairy in Curtiss, Wisconsin on Friday, March 22, 2024. Gabi Broekema/USA TODAY NETWORK- Wisconsin

Nasonville Dairy does a great colby

Nasonville Dairy bought the factory and store west of Abbotsford in 2009; prior to that it was owned and operated by Tim Suttner. Wondering what to get at Nasonville, aside from curds? Try the small factory's young colby cheese. In the late 1980s, changes in the laws defining how cheese factories were able to make colby cheese changed. This opened the door for producers to make a product closer to mild cheddar cheese, but still market and sell it as colby. To my taste, Nasonville makes the kind of colby cheese that I remember growing up in the 1970s and '80s, squeaky like curds, crumbly and buttery rich.

Visit Nasonville Dairy at N14505 Sandhill Ave. in Curtiss and learn more at nasonvilledairy.com.

Marieke Penterman, (right) has won dozens of awards for her gouda, which is made with old-world Dutch processes. In this photo from 2019, she celebrates third place in a U.S. Championship Cheese Contest, held in Green Bay.

Thorp's Marieke is the place for Grade A gouda

Drive about 20 miles west to Thorp and you'll find Marieke Gouda, an extravaganza of a cheese producer. Like the name implies, gouda is the only cheese produced and sold on the farm. The award-winning cheese is made with milk that comes from cows cared for on the Marieka property, and is made to old-school Dutch standards. The driving force behind the operation is Marieka Penterman, who along with her husband, Rolf, are transplants from the Netherlands. People can eat at a cafe, visit the cows and take tours of the entire operation. In addition to cheese and other locally-made food, people can buy treats imported from the Netherlands, including chocolates and stroopwafels (waffle cookies sandwiching caramel or other sweet fillings.)

Visit Marieke Farm at 200 W. Liberty Drive, it's located near the intersection of State 29 and Clark County M, and learn more at mariekegouda.com.

Spice things up at Yellowstone Cheese

Next stop, Yellowstone Cheese of Cadott. Yellowstone makes it a goal to purchase the milk it uses from small family farms, said Mike Shirk, manager. The store includes tons of locally-made food products, including maple syrup, jams and condiments. But what cheese should we get? Yellowstone offers a variety of spicy cheeses, from a horseradish Monterey to a more traditional pepperjack to the Triple XXX, made with habanero peppers. Too hot? You can cool overheated taste buds with a scoop of local Olson Ice Cream, made in small batches in Chippewa Falls.

Visit Yellowstone Cheese at 24105 Chippewa County MM in Cadott and learn more at yellowstonecheese.com.

RELATED: Fresh. Buttery. Soapy. Astringent. Enter the world of professional cheese tasting.

RELATED: Swiss cheesemaker wins third consecutive World Championship Cheese Contest; Wisconsin wins 39 classes

Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery is known for its curds

I am a traditionalist when it comes to cheese curds. I don't want batter, I don't want deep-fried, I don't want flavors. But Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery is where I make an exception. Ellsworth is such a giant in the curd world, the city of Ellsworth itself holds a famous annual Cheese Curd Festival. The Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery got its start in the early 1900s, but this stop at its Menomonie location is the coop's newest cheesemaking facility and retail store. According to the company's website, the newest products are sold at this store before being made widely available. "That's how you can be among the first to get your hands on trending items like our new Cheddar Curd Crunchers," the website said.

Visit the Menominonie cheese production facility and store at 3001 Dunn County B and learn more at ellsworthcheese.com/visit/menomonie.

Freshly made Wisconsin cheese curds are loaded into bags after being hand separated and salted at Nasonville Dairy in Curtiss, Wisconsin on Friday, March 22, 2024. Gabi Broekema/USA TODAY NETWORK- Wisconsin

Cady Cheese Factory has a 116-year history

The Cady Cheese Factory & Store, located a few miles south of Interstate 94 on State 128, first started making cheese in the early 1900s, "with the first known cheesemaker hired in 1908," according to its online history. In 2013, the factory and store was purchased by the Burnett Dairy Cooperative. Today it's known for its longhorn colby cheese, produced in a cylindrical shape. But the store also features more than 100 varieties of cheeses, and one of its specialties is its Cady Cheese party trays. Visitors can order those ahead by calling 715-772-4218, or try their luck with pre-made trays in the store's coolers.

Visit Cady Cheese Factory & Store at 126 State 128, Wilson and learn more at cadycheese.com/stores.

Keith Uhlig is a regional features reporter for USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin based in Wausau. Contact him at 715-845-0651 or kuhlig@gannett.com. Follow him at @UhligK on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram or on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: 5 fresh Wisconsin cheese stops on a drive to Minnesota
The Raleigh in Miami Beach is going residential, and Robb Report got an exclusive sneak peek at the iconic hotels new ground-up condominium component.

Set to arrive on the sands of South Beach in 2026, the 17-story branded tower on Collins Avenue is being spearheaded by SHVO and managed by Rosewood. The New York-based luxury real estate developer tapped Kobi Karp for the exterior and award-winning architect Peter Marino to design the interior, which will comprise 40 waterfront homes, including eight penthouses. Additionally, the revitalized Raleigh Estate will feature a newly restored 60-suite hotel and a private members clubboth of which will also be designed by Marinoalong with 215 linear feet of oceanfront.

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The kitchens will feature marble counters and custom woodwork.

There is only one architect in the world that I would entrust to restore The Raleigh to its original splendor, and that is Peter Marino, Michael Shvo, chairman and CEO of SHVO, told Robb Report. Drawing from his work with the worlds most glamorous fashion houses, such as Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton, to name a fewand taking inspiration from The Raleighs original art deco design and its storied history, Peter Marino has created a unique aesthetic that will be felt in every element of the three-acre estate across the residences, hotel, and beach club.

The homes at Raleighs Rosewood Residences will range from two- to five-bedroom residences, with pricing for three-bedroom floor plans starting at $10 million. The penthouse suites will include anywhere from four to seven bedrooms and measure between 4,564 square feet and 13,218 square feet in size. As a bonus, the aeries will also come with expansive outdoor terraces that offer sweeping views of the water. Internally, the units will sport high-end materials, including marble and onyx, along with swanky custom finishes such as decorative plasters and woodwork.

Penthouses will come with ocean-facing outdoor terraces.

Of course, residents will have access to a slew of exclusive perks, including a private porte-cochere entrance, four swimming pools, and two lobbies decorated with art and furnishings curated by Marino. Theres also 24-concierge service, a childrens playroom, a 4,000-square-foot spa, and a double-height fitness center. The previously mentioned beach club will be operated by the famed Italian restaurant Langosteria and marks the hospitality groups first U.S. outpost. The eatery will also provide in-residence dining and beachside cabana service.

We take pride in the Rosewood brand as a true steward of historic and landmark buildings that have a rich story and soul, Radha Arora, president of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, told Robb Report. Its a privilege for us to be able to breathe new life into these spaces and give a new generation of travelers an opportunity to experience them. With The Raleigh, we saw an opportunity to collaborate with partners that share both our appreciation for legacy properties as well as our vision for the future of luxury hospitality. This is an iconic destination that has influenced life in Miami Beach for decades, and were thrilled to be introducing its next chapter.

Click here to see more photos of The Raleighs Rosewood Residences.

The Raleigh Rosewood Residences miami beach

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A medic carries a wounded Palestinian boy into the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital following Israeli bombardment of the Nuseirat refugee camp - AFP via Getty Images

Israels relentless pounding of the Gaza Strip has led to more wounded civilians undergoing amputations than in any conflict of recent times, medical charities believe.

As fighting continues inside the besieged enclave despite a UN Security Council ceasefire resolution, many fear the unprecedented intensity of the bombardment over six months means there will be more amputees per capita than there were in Syria, Iraq or Afghanistan.

Although precise data is unavailable, a significant proportion of the 75,000 people whom the local Health Ministry says have been injured since the Hamas terror attacks on October 7 last year require prosthetic limbs.

Humanity & Inclusion (HI), also known as Handicap International, has reported that 70 to 80 per cent of those being admitted to the 12 hospitals which are still partially functioning inside Gaza have lost limbs or suffered spinal cord injuries.

Many of the 10,000 people it has assessed have had to undergo amputations, including hundreds of children.

In January, UNICEF estimated that around 1,000 children in Gaza have lost one or both their legs  equivalent to 10 children losing legs every day.

That number has undoubtedly risen massively as the Israeli onslaught continues unabated through densely populated areas, leaving many individual catastrophes behind.

Palestinians check the rubble of buildings destroyed by Israeli bombardment in Rafah - MOHAMMED ABED/AFP via Getty Images

Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) co-ordinator Marie-Aure Perreaut Revial witnessed the pitiful sight of scores of children having their limbs amputated in the al-Aqsa hospital only last week.

It is completely devastating to see, she admitted. Babies as young as one year old are being amputated. These are babies that have never learned to walk, and now they never will walk [unaided].

I saw many patients who arrived at the hospital who had already lost their legs and their arms. And then there were others badly injured in a blast who had to be amputated because the lack of access to healthcare and post-operative care means their wounds will otherwise be infected.

With little indication of Israel loosening its tight control of border crossing points for more medical evacuations, agencies fear that thousands of those maimed who have not yet been operated on risk infection.

Limb injuries have to wait

In Gaza, where just under half of the population are under 18, a substantial proportion of the young will grow up hampered by a war-inflicted disability because their stumps cannot be surgically prepared for prosthetic fitting.

A generation of child amputees is emerging, said Aseel Baidoun, Director Advocacy and Campaigns for Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).

We know that Gazas collapsed medical system is too over stretched to give children with long term injuries the intricate follow-up care they need to salvage their still-growing, truncated bones.

I have heard from surgeons with MAPs emergency medical teams in Gaza that hospitals are so overwhelmed already that they can only treat patients needing life-saving procedures, such as neurosurgical or vascular injuries, while limb injuries have to wait.

Official figures put the number of Ukrainians who have undergone amputations since Russias full-scale invasion two years ago at 20,000. Some believe the real number might be much higher, up to 50,000.

Over the course of the First World War, historians estimate that in Germany the number of amputations totalled 67,000, while in Britain it was 41,000.

New weapons being used on a previously unimaginable scale, coupled with problems like frostbite and infection in the trenches, contributed to so many soldiers losing their limbs.

Palestinian flee following Israeli air strikes on the al-Maghazi refugee camp - YASSER QUDIH/AFP via Getty Images

Approximately 60,000 amputations were carried out in the American Civil War, more than any other conflict in which US troops have been involved.

Over the course of two decades of war in Vietnam, nearly 100,000 people became amputees. Many more are still losing limbs today because of unexploded mines lingering in the ground.

In 2017, UNICEF stated that 86,000 people had lost limbs after seven years of war in Syria, although no official data has ever been collated.

What distinguishes Gaza from regime bombing raids on residential areas in Israels Middle Eastern neighbour is the impossibility of escape.

Even though President Assad, aided by Russian fighter jets and drones, indiscriminately carpet-bombed cities like Homs and Aleppo, there was at least the possibility of fleeing to somewhere safer. In Gaza, that is not an option.

London-based plastic-and-reconstructive surgeon Ghassan Abu-Sittah, who worked in Gaza during the first months of the Israeli military retaliation, has said: This is the biggest cohort of paediatric amputees in history.

In November he told The Telegraph how he was forced to perform amputations on six children over the course of a single night.

He described how amputation was often the only available option as Israeli troops surrounded the blood bank, preventing transfusions.

Agencies fear that thousands of those maimed who have not yet been operated on are at risk of infection - AFP via Getty Images

Medical organisations in Gaza, including HI and MSF, stress that thousands of prosthetics and assistive devices like crutches and wheelchairs are urgently needed.

Reham Shaheen, HIs rehabilitation expert, said: The numbers are huge. It is due to the type of weapons used.

In the context of war injuries caused by explosive weapons, multiple operations, including limb reconstruction and plastic surgery, are often needed. These procedures are currently unavailable in Gaza, and people will have to wait a long time for a prosthesis.

Everything is out of stock. Supply is our main challenge, along with security concerns about how to move between hospitals and shelters without being killed or injured.

As Aseel Baidoun points out, the plight of amputees is worsened further by their inability to flee when the next wave of attacks comes.

One of the most gruelling challenges inside Gaza is providing essential pre-prosthetic rehabilitation care for amputees in appallingly overcrowded and unsanitary conditions.

The waiting period after amputation surgery to allow the stump to be prepared for a prosthesis is normally three to four months.

All that can be done for the time being, however, is to maintain the shape of the stump so that a prosthesis can be fitted at a later date.

It has been claimed that Israel has dropped more than 25,000 tonnes of explosives on Gaza in the form of more than 12,000 bombs - AFP via Getty Images

Only 30 per cent of medics who were working before the current conflict are still able to operate, due to killings, detentions and displacements, according to the World Health Organization.

Since October, HI nurses have dressed more than 2,200 wounds.

They have become expert in using different methods to distract patients as there are no anaesthetics available to alleviate pain during excruciating procedures.

Too weak to push out of the rubble of residential buildings razed by Israeli bombs, childrens wounded limbs often cannot be saved, if they even reach a hospital. The youngest are particularly vulnerable to life-changing injuries in explosions.

A small proportion were evacuated earlier this year as part of a deal Qatar struck with Israel, Hamas and Egypt for wounded Palestinians in need of urgent medical care.

Among them were a four-year-old girl whose left leg was amputated after a shrapnel injury became gangrenous. The doctor who treated her initially had no access to antiseptic, so cauterised the bleeding with the heated blade of a kitchen knife.

The Permanent Observer Mission of the State of Palestine to the United Nations Office claims that Israel has already dropped over 25,000 tonnes of explosives on Gaza in the form of more than 12,000 bombs.

HI physiotherapist Maria Marelli, who has just returned from a mission to Rafah, said the inability to take in equipment and supplies severely curtails what can be achieved.

If we cannot get assisted devices like prosthetics into Gaza, then we cannot provide what is needed, she said. It is very disruptive.

The injured arrive in overcrowded shelters or hospitals with wounds that go untreated for days - MOHAMMED ABED/AFP via Getty Images

Among those whom HI has treated in Rafah in recent weeks is 14-year-old Ali, from northern Gaza, who was travelling south in a convoy with his family when they were struck by an air-launched Israeli missile.

Alis mother, father and brother were killed. Although he survived, the injuries to his left leg were so severe that doctors amputated it above the knee.

He requires further surgery and a wheelchair, but neither are available at the moment.

Describing the chaotic conditions in Rafah, to which half of the Gaza Strips population of 2.3 million have fled, Maria went on: Right now, it is so packed that every pavement is covered with tents. There are people absolutely everywhere, all of them waiting.

The shelter we visited, a former school, was designed for 2,000 people but now houses 28,000, with families crammed into classrooms, corridors, tents in what was the school yard. Sewage water is spilling on corridors and common spaces, with tents scattered everywhere.

They arrive in overcrowded shelters or hospitals with wounds that go untreated for days, causing life-threatening complications and infections.

There were already many amputees in Gaza before the war, from wounds incurred in previous conflicts.

Many have made the journey on foot through rubble and dirt, so their prosthetic limbs are no longer functioning properly.

People are suffering so many different types of injuries from direct hits and from buildings collapsing, Maria recalled.

I saw a lot of very badly injured children, with fractures, with burns. Often, there are whole families in which all of them have been really hurt.

Its a ticking bomb with the poor hygiene conditions and lack of healthcare.

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Its a little ironic. While Gianluca Migliarotti founded PML in 2020 as the casual, ready-to-wear equivalent to his bespoke trouser brand Pommella Napoli, the younger label has begun to offer custom clothing too.

However, theres no b word to contend with here. PMLs core range of rugged overshirts, single-pleated trousers, unstructured sport jackets, and unlined balmacaans are instead offered made-to-order, a designation more in keeping with the brands nonchalant purpose and charm.

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I want to give people an option, says Migliarotti, who views PML MTO as a third way between mass retail and bespoke tailoring. There is something in between that is easier. Its not dramatic, its just beautiful and comfortable, but you can wear it in everyday life with no drama.

Insider Italian Menswear Brand PML Is Launching a Made-to-Order Program

Rather than creating an entirely new pattern for clients, and requiring their presence at multiple fittings, PML will simply adjust a stock size to better fit the customers physicality. For instance, adding a few centimeters to the hem and sleeves of a sport jacket to accommodate a particularly tall patron.

And while basic styling decisions may be made by the clients, such as choosing between a single-breasted or double-breasted jacket stance and specifying its pocket shape and buttons, more granular concerns such as the width of the lapels are locked in.

As a result, the garments, which are made in Italy with a high degree of handwork, will be delivered to customers in as little as five weeks with comparatively gentle pricing. Overcoats lead the pack with a price starting at $1,500, while overshirts, trousers, and sport jackets begin at $500, $550 and $1,200, respectively.

But what makes the garments truly unique (and determines their final price) is that they may be made from an archive of rare, vintage fabrics that Migliarotti has personally assembled over his varied career as a clothier and a documentary filmmaker focused on the bespoke trade. In particular, Migliarotti has made it a mission to rescue choice fabrics from tailors who have retired or passed on.

He describes a recent visit to Milans F. Caraceni, which announced earlier this month that it would be closing after 56 years of business. On its premises, he discovered a single cutabout two jackets worthof heavyweight, honey-colored cashmere he speculatively dates to the 1980s. I mean, where can you find something like that? he says, the excitement in his voice palpable.

Insider Italian Menswear Brand PML Is Launching a Made-to-Order Program

The archive, which Migliarotti estimates at over 100 fabrics, is rich with one-off castoffs, many originally sourced from mills that no longer exist or bear little resemblance to their former selves. And hes determined that these treasures should be enjoyed by ladies as well: PMLs entire MTO range is available in womens sizing, with the addition of a waistcoat designed for wear as a two-piece with matching trousers.

Most of the time, the styling is very nice for women, but the cloth is terrible, Migliarotti says of the apparel industrys unequal status quo. We are trying to give the same quality in our approach.

The West Village shoe store Leffot, which has long stocked PMLs ready-to-wear, will serve as the Manhattan hub for its made-to-order. Clients can try on sample jackets and trousers in various sizes and view representative swatches of the PML archive before placing an order. Migliarotti plans to drop in for regular trunk shows, with his next visit slated for May 10 and 11.

Some of our clients, they are very specific for what they are looking for, Migliarotti says. So that is what we want to offer. Something you cannot find everywhere. Not just an average thing.

PMLs latest offering may not be bespoke. But its anything but average.

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Plus, how did it become so popular?

DotDash Meredith Food Studios, Josef Scaylea/Getty Images

There are many versions of pizza. Some deny it. Others accept it. We have cheese pizzas, pizzas with basil, thin, round, and square pizzas, Chicago pizza, New York pizza, and much more.



With plenty of fast food slices as well as freezer buys from the grocery store, pizza is beyond popular. And with how popular this food is, the question of where our love of pizza comes from is more relevant.



But asking who invented pizza is like asking who invented music. Nearly every culture has some form of tune, and nearly every culture has put together a flatbread with toppings. But a pizza is not just flatbread with toppings. It is Italian in nature, and now a food made around the world in countless ways.



AR Magazine

When Was Pizza Invented?

Pizza, as many know it, dates back hundreds of years. Soldiers and street vendors were cooking flatbreads with cheese in the time of antiquity. The innovation of tomatoes on flatbread arrived in the 16th century, when tomatoes first arrived in Europe.



But the popularity of pizza did not pick up until the 1800s. In Naples, the Neapolitans made quick work of using tomatoes and other toppings, and pizza grew as a food for the poor, for workers, and even for the King and Queen when they visited this city after the unification of Italy.



King Umberto I and Queen Margherita traveled to Naples in 1889 and requested to try pizzas. One of the Queens favorite creations was a pie garnished with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basilthe colors of the Italian flag. After the visit, this pizza was named in her honor.



This style of Margherita pizza had been served in Naples for most of the century already, but before this visit, the dish lacked a proper name. Whether this story is true is up for debate, as some question its validity, but nonetheless, the chef who likely served the royals played a pinnacle role in pioneering pizza in Naples.



Who Invented Pizza?

Raffaele Esposito, the chef at the center of this story, was one of the most famous pizza makers at the time, and if anyone was likely to serve the king and queen, it would have been him. Some consider him a father of modern pizza, and his pizza shop, now named Pizzeria Brandi, still exists in Naples.



If any city could claim credit for inventing something, Naples would be on this list for pizza. The hands of countless cooks and the heat from countless kitchens churned out fresh dough and sauce for the people in this city for hundreds of years.



Sara Haas

Pizza In Italy

Outside of Naples, Pizza took longer to catch on. It was not always the most prestigious food to many Italians but today, pizza is a food of cultural pride for many Italians. There are organizations like the Verace Pizza Napoletana Association that work to sustain and define what pizza means.



According to this association, Neapolitan pizza from Naples is made in a specific way, like Champagne is a specific type of wine from the region of Champagne, France. A true Neapolitan pizza is about 14 inches round, with swollen, raised edges, and free of burns. It must be soft and fragrant, and made with flour, water, salt, and yeast. There are specific toppings that should be used and a specific temperature and time the pie should be cooked at as well.



But Italy doesnt just serve Neapolitan pizzas, so there are plenty of pizzas that have come out of Italy. They might be quite as varied as what can be found in the United States, but this country will always be the home of pizza.



Pizza in The United States

Pizza first appeared in the United States at the turn of the 20th century, thanks to Italian immigrants coming between 1880 and 1920. The first pizza shop came in 1905 when Gennaro Lombardi, living in New York City, applied for the first license to make and sell pizza in the country.



Initially, a pizza could only be bought as a pie. There were no slices, so it was a great option to share as a family, as coworkers, or if you are trying to work off a hefty buzz with friends. Many pizza shops were also taverns, so they were open late.



Other popular pizza shops include Joe's Tomato Pies, which opened in Trenton, New Jersey in 1912, and Totonno's in Coney Island in 1924. Over the next decade, pizza popped up in New Haven, Connecticut, Boston, and San Francisco. In 1943, Ike Sewell opened Uno's and Chicago pizza was born.



Up until the 1950s, pizza was still considered a novelty ethnic food limited to Italian neighborhoods, small-town taverns, and back street bistros, writes Patricia Wells in The New York Times. But when American soldiers stationed in Italy returned home from World War II, there was a much bigger appetite for pizza.



During the second half of the 20th century, pizza became ubiquitous. The rise of fast food pizza appeared as well as the fancy pizza. Almost like Starbucks, you dont need to travel too far to find a shop serving a slice.

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Try some of our best pizza recipes:

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Makeup artist Etienne Ortega has spent his career working with celebrities like Christina Aguilera, Lana Del Rey, Demi Lovato and Kris Jenner. And now, he's channeling his 17-plus years of industry experience into an eponymous makeup brand: On Wednesday, he unveiled Ortega, a lip-focused assortment that he's already been using on his A-list clients.

The product lineup includes lip oil, lip gloss, lip liner (in 10 shades), a "color stick" (a chunky crayon lip color in eight shades) and makeup wipes, with prices ranging from $12 to $22.

"Lips have always been my signature thing for many years. I have done the ombre, three-tone lip colors with a strong liner and a juicy gloss," Ortega tells Fashionista. "My audience on Instagram and my platforms are always asking, 'What lip color is that? What lip combo is that?'"

With Ortega, the artist is offering up the tools to re-create his mix-and-match lip looks at home. The creative wanted to inspire a playful approach to makeup with the line, he says. He likens the product offering to "giving you a little box of crayons."

Etienne Ortega Photo: Marco Roman/Courtesy of Ortega

In addition to the obvious focus on lips, Ortega also wanted the brand to honor his Mexican heritage and pay homage to his family: The Guadalajara-born artist highlights Spanish shade names like "Beso," "Para Siempre" and "Musa," as well as the inclusion of certain ingredients, like blue agave, that were sourced in Mexico.

"Everything I do in my life is always about family, at the end of the day," he says. "My grandfather came to the U.S. and left his whole family in Mexico. He sacrificed that to come here and try to live the American dream. It's like a tribute to my grandpa and to his struggles and sacrifices that he made. If I'm in this position, I want to do something with it. I want to highlight my last name and Mexican culture."

The brand, which was five years in the making, is deeply personal to Ortega. In addition to the challenges associated with developing the products during the pandemic, the artist was also diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2021, he shares. "That put a big pause on what was happening on the business side, but also just on my personal side. Your life kind of flashes right in front of you, and you're like, okay, now I have another chance."

The debut campaign video, which features Ortega himself under water, then coming up for air, symbolizes his "rebirth" over the past few years while facing health issues and the challenges of building the brand.

"For five years, I felt like I was underwater. I was sick. I wasn't able to talk about my brand. I wasn't able to work on it the way I wanted to, and the partnerships didn't always work out," he says. "At the end of the video, I come up for air and a deep breath. That represents the now, this very moment in time of me finally getting to breathe and let out this thing that I've been holding in for so long."

Keep scrolling for a first look at the full Ortega debut product lineup.

Ortega Liquid Icon Hyper Gloss (Shine On), $18, available here

Ortega Blu Nectar Lip Oil (Condition), $21, available here

Ortega Agave Glow Color Stick (Color), $22, available here

Ortega Soft-Contour Lip Liner, $22, available here

Oretga Striptease Makeup Remover Wipes, $12, available here

Please note: Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. In no way does this affect our editorial decision-making.

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While on assignment for the Village Voice at the end of the 1960s, the writer Vivian Gornick found herself drawn into the gyre of the New York Radical Women, a second-wave feminist protest group formed as a response to the male domination of US civil-rights organisations. In that moment, Gornicks personal experience  shed grown up in a socialist household in the Bronx  locked in with a nascent political movement, giving her a sense of harmony.

But as Hannah Proctor notes in Burnout, a wide-ranging book-length essay, the Lefts delicate act of balancing the individual with the collective has often become fraught as soon as the players leave the meeting hall. It didnt take long, for instance, for the rapture of the NYRWs idealism to succumb to the rupture of dogmatism. Founded in 1967, by 1969 the group had already splintered and dissolved, one of its last actions being to beseech women attending the protest against Richard Nixons inauguration in 1969, a proxy protest against the Vietnam War, not to bring flowers, not to come as wives, mothers, mourners  even if they were.

Such chasms between theory and practice are at the heart of Proctors analysis of how the Left experience political defeat. Organised into eight chapters with evocative, single-word phenomena for titles  Melancholia, Nostalgia, Bitterness  Proctor harnesses a dizzying array of sources to demonstrate that just as the fact of Leftist political defeat has presented differently over time  everything from the fall of the Paris Commune to Suhartos massacres in Indonesia to Bernie Sanders failing to clinch the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020  so has its emotional response.

In 1872, for example, the defeated French Communards were exiled to distant, tropical New Caledonia, where they refused to put down roots or organise, and instead longed for Paris to such a degree that some went mad waiting for news from home. By 1878, this pathological nostalgia even saw them tasked by the colonial authorities with suppressing a revolt by the native Kanaks, despite the two groups ostensibly common oppressor. In Proctors reading, the French have long displayed an ability to live in political contradiction: examining the post-1968 generation, we meet the professional revolutionary, exemplified by the student leaders whose careerism ultimately proved they were less interested in overthrowing the system than reconfiguring the social order to include them at the top.

Yet Proctors choice of title, which in a book of this nature functions as a load-bearing beam, lets her material down. Before a droll skewering of millennial self-help books about burnout today, Proctor acknowledges some misgivings, saying that she hesitated to use the word burnout as a title because [her] intention was to emphasise the historical specificity of particular concepts for describing psychic life, rather than implying some transhistorical understanding of subjectivity. In other words, theres no one way to describe the emotional experience of defeat, because every defeat feels particular to its own time: an idea expressed somewhat more directly by Tolstoy over 200 years ago.

Chinese cadres march into rural areas to clear debris in 1976 - Keystone/Getty

Burnout, as a psychic phenomenon identified in 1974 by the German-American psychologist Herbert J Freudenberger, was initially described as cases of physical or mental collapse as the result of overwork. It has little to do with exiled 19th-century revolutionaries yearning for France, or the members of the Chinese Communist Party who in the 1940s used the practise of Fanshen  a term derived from a verb meaning to turn over  to purify their ranks through radical public self-examination. The lack of an anchoring concept flattens the historical specificity of Proctors research. In Mourning, for example, the books final chapter, we see the AIDS crisis in New York in the 1980s awkwardly juxtaposed with Patrice Lumumbas funeral procession in the Congo in the early 1960s.

On the other hand, where that fleeting union of individual and collective appears, its well-handled. Trauma, an excellent chapter, begins with a description of post-traumatic stress disorder as the Coca-Cola of psychiatry, exported from America and wedged into understandings of persecution and conflict from the Holocaust to Vietnam, the 1973 coup detat in Chile, and the 2002 Bali bombings. Delving into, for example, the poetry of Raul Zurita, whose INRI is a book-length poem that takes the death and abnegation of the military dictatorship and turns it into an artefact of beauty, Proctor deftly shows how artmaking, being intrinsically personal, can stitch together the legacy of trauma and the emotional experience of defeat.

Proctor, a research fellow at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow and a committed Leftist, allows the reader glimpses of her own life and the political defeats she has witnessed, from the failed Scottish referendum to the tragedy of the Grenfell Tower fire. A move to Berlin in 2016, between the Brexit referendum and the election of Donald Trump in America, corresponds with a period of listlessness, health issues and a break from activism that the author describes as depression. Proctors experience of defeat, then, is personal and political  yet here its curiously veiled. Only from behind the barricades of historical distance can her analysis of collective defeat and psychic phenomena hit, fitfully, home.

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Italian model Ines Trocchia claimed that she's often accused of being an bot amid the proliferation of AI, which is known for generating flawless representations of people online.

They think she looks too good to be true.

Hyperrealistic artificial intelligence fakes have become so prevalent online that attractive people are now being mistaken for AI.

An Italian model claimed that shes often accused of being a bot amid the proliferation of AI, which is known for generating flawless representations of people online.

Its extremely frustrating that people think Im an AI model, Ines Trocchia, 29, told Jam Press of the unfortunate phenomenon. Its complete insanity to me.

The AI models are contributing to unreachable standards of beauty, Ines Troccia claims. Jam Press/@inestrocchia

The Naples-based influencer, whos collaborated with high-end fashion brands from Philip Plein to Dolce & Gabbana, frequently uploads immaculate-looking glamor shots of herself for her more than 1.6 million followers on Instagram.

Trocchia says shes spent years in front of the camera perfecting her craft and likes to show off the fruits of her labor.

Unfortunately, due to the proliferation of AI-generated supermodels online, many people wonder if shes a genuine artifact  or simply another too-hot bot.

Its shocking to me that some people question if Im real, lamented Trocchia. I dont think my profile looks like that of a bot.

The bombshell added, You can always tell when an AI model has been used because they have the same sad expression in every single photo and video.

Her case perhaps presents one of the pitfalls of being  to borrow the words of Ben Stiller in Zoolander  really, really, really ridiculously good-looking in the AI age.

Ines Trocchia claims that people are hijacking her likeness for internet clout. Jam Press/@inestrocchia

Trocchia finds her predicament especially frustrating as shes got highlight reels that show me on a catwalk and things like that.

This technological fallout entails more than just a case of mistaken AI-dentity: Troccia claims that online catfishers often hijack her likeness to generate views on social media.

Ive noticed bot accounts are even stealing my body and putting artificial faces on it, she lamented. One of my videos was outright stolen by a bot account and got more views on there than it did on my own profile.

Shes not alone with the issue, either.

I spoke with some of my colleagues and friends in the industry and they have the same problem, the proud natural beauty added.

I dont think my profile looks like that of a bot, Trocchia protested. Ive got highlight reels that show me on a catwalk and things like that. Jam Press/@inestrocchia

Its so bad for the modeling industry and the whole world, Trocchia said. Jam Press/@inestrocchia

Trocchia regularly posts glamor shots for her over 1.6 million Instagram followers. Jam Press/@inestrocchia

Trocchia claims that by blurring the line between the real and virtual worlds, AI contributes to already stratospheric beauty standards, which she finds bad for both the modeling industry and society overall.

Some of the AI accounts that I have seen are completely impossible standards, she explained. The models tend to be super baby-faced with breasts and features that arent in proportion to their bodies.

Troccia argued  perhaps somewhat ironically, given her vocation  that its crazy to strive for an unbelievable level of perfection.

In other words, beauty is in the AI of the beholder.

Trocchia struts her stuff in a bikini. Jam Press/@inestrocchia

And while the model acknowledges that the tech has its place  she admits to using the tool to edit photographs  creating superhumanly hot AI robots is a bridge too far in her view.

Its completely different when youre using it to create a person who doesnt exist, Trocchia declared.

Unfortunately, cases like Trocchias could become commonplace as the omnipresent tech becomes increasingly adept at engineering digital representations of everyone from online boyfriends to politicians.

Despite proliferating virtually, these fabrications can have serious ramifications in the real world.

In May 2023, an AI-generated photo of a fake explosion at the Pentagon spread on social media  prompting mass confusion among users and a brief selloff in the U.S. stock market.
Google shares a little peek into where people are looking to travel this summer.

Circle Creative Studio/Getty Images

Travelers are just chuffed with London this summer, and are planning to head there in droves.

Thats according to Google, which named the city in the United Kingdom the most popular destination for summer 2024. The list reflects searches in the United States on Google Flights for travel from June 1 to Aug. 31, the company shared with Travel + Leisure.

London was followed by its neighbor to the south, Paris, which is always a good idea, of course. The European cities were then followed by Tokyo, which jumped up to the No. 3 spot on the list this year after placing just eighth in 2023.

Trips to Rome and New York rounded out the top five spots on the list of popular summer destinations.

Cancun, typically a perennial favorite, dropped to No. 6 on the list this year after placing second in 2023.

Travelers are also searching for trips to the dreamy beaches of Bali, which came in as the top spot for solo travel, followed by searches for solo trips to Japan, Maines Acadia National Park, Turks and Caicos, and (T+Ls 2024 Destination of the Year) Costa Rica.

In fact, solo travel has been so popular this year that searches reached an all-time high in January.

Travelers are also searching Google for specific activities, like the top things to do in Las Vegas for couples or the best things to do with kids in Orlando. But Google said Turks and Caicos is the most popular destination when it comes to both family travel and a couples trip.

Beyond making it easy to find flight options, Google Flights also helps travelers save money on dream getaways by telling customers when prices have specifically been lowest so they can better predict when they should purchase a flight. The search engine also offers flight tracking and alerts.

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Pope Francis meets participants in the workshop on Indigenous knowledge at the Vatican on March 14, 2024. (Photo/Vatican Media)

On March 14, 2024, Pope Francis on Thursday encouraged a closer collaboration between Indigenous and scientific knowledge to address climate change, the loss of biodiversity, and threats to food and health security facing the world today.

The National Indian Health Board on Tuesday said the Popes acknowledgement is a step forward.

The Popes recognition of the value of Indigenous knowledge resonates deeply with the National Indian Health Boards International work that has focused on defining and improving Indigenous Determinants of Health to improve the health and well-being of all American Indian, Alaska Natives, and Indigenous Peoples globally, the National Indian Health Board said in a press release.

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The National Indian Health Board has worked towards, and supports the Popes focus on a world view that incorporates Indigenous knowledge and determinants of health in the broader global efforts to mitigate climate change, Stacy Bohlen, Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, NIHB CEO said. This is another acknowledgement that follows others on the international stage, that indigenous peoples hold game changing solutions to many modern problems through both longstanding knowledge and their experiences.

The National Indian Health Boards has long recognized that Indigenous cultures hold valuable insights into sustainable living and environmental stewardship. Through millennia of living in harmony with nature, Indigenous communities have developed a profound understanding of ecological systems and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

The culture of Indigenous people can heal the earth and its people, William Smith, a citizen of the EYAK Tribe in the Alaska Village of Valdez and Chairman of NIHB said. It is imperative that we elevate indigenous voices and incorporate their knowledge into global efforts to address the climate crisis.

About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. "

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In the early 1980s, Carol Altieri, the principal and COO of Bobs Watches, a leading online pre-owned watch dealer, lived in the Marina del Rey neighborhood of Los Angeles and spent her weekends at the original Fred Segal store in neighboring Santa Monica.

Fred Segal was where you went on a weekend, and you just hung out, Altieri tells Robb Report. Wed go to the cafe, me and my girlfriends, and spend the day shopping.

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Now, some 40 years later, Altieri has inked a strategic partnership with the iconic fashion retailer that will see an extensive collection of Bobs used Rolexes and other timepieces appear on the Fred Segal e-commerce platform as well as in its Southern and Northern California stores in West Hollywood, Malibu, Studio City, and Marin County.

There I was as a kid in my 20s going to Fred Segal, and here I am in my 60s putting my product in Fred Segal, she says. Ive come full circle.

Rolex Timepieces from Bobs Watches at Fred Segal

Altieri describes Bobs presence at Fred Segal as a a pop-in, not a pop-up.

When you walk into the store, the watches are displayed next to the clothing, she says. We have Bobs Watches branding in the store. 

The merchandise leans heavily on Rolexs masculine timepieces, but skews differently based on the store location. I might put more professional watches in Hollywood, a little more bling in Malibu, Altieri says.

The Fred Segal collaboration is in line with Bobs fashion-forward strategy. Six years ago, the e-tailer began a long-term partnership with Goop, Gwyneth Paltrows influential wellness and lifestyle brand, which showcases Bobs timepieces in Goop stores across the country and in the brands popular gift guide. You get a lot of publicity when you do something with Gwyneth Paltrow, Altieri says.

In 2021, Bobs teamed up with Los Angeles online fashion retailer Revolve on a Rolex capsule collection for the holiday. That collaboration helped lay the groundwork for an in-store Revolve pop-up in Aspen earlier this month featuring a selection of coveted Rolex models sourced by Bobs Watches.

Rolex Timepieces from Bobs Watches at Fred Segal

Revolve asked for the more petite 26 mm watches, Altieri says, referring to the growing preference for smaller case sizes. The Submariners and GMTs are always tried and true watches, and people are still loving the colored dials. The 34 mm to 36 mm styles, particularly in all steel, are doing really well.

While generating brand awareness for Bobs is one reason Altieri has pursued collaborations with famed fashion retailers, the potential boost in business works both ways: People have gone into some of these stores because they know our watches are there and theyve also found us there, she says. Its a win-win for both parties.

Altieri says another reason why the fashion collabs make sense is because they allow Bobs to test the brick and mortar waters. Could a Bobs Watches physical location be coming soon?

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This giant sturgeon, over 7 feet long and 80 years old, was illegally caught by poachers in Oregon.

Last month, The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) announced the successful prosecution of a poaching incident involving giant white sturgeon. According to the ODFW, the incident took place in 2022.

A group of young sportsmen were fishing along the bank of Scappoose Bay in Northern Oregon when they noticed that several people on a nearby boat had caught a sturgeon but had not released it as required by law. The shore fishermen reported what they saw to Oregon State Police (OSP) game wardens, who began monitoring the area.

After two days, OSP Troopers approached the potential suspects at the dock. The subjects claimed that they had not caught any fish, explained the ODFW in a press release. However, Troopers could see two lines extending from the dock into the water. When they pulled up the lines, they found four live sturgeon, ranging in size from five feet to more than seven feet long.

An additional 5-foot sturgeon was found aboard the boat. White sturgeon are notoriously slow growingwhich is why the take of the species is highly regulated. According to the ODFW, the 7-plus-footer the men captured was likely more than 80 years old.

The agency was able to successfully charge and prosecute the group. Julio Duran pleaded guilty to the take/possession of a giant white sturgeona Class C felony. He served 20 days in county jail, owes over $5,000 in restitution, faces 36 months of probation, and has a 3-year angling license suspension.

Jose Plascencia and Axel Guell both pleaded guilty to angling without licenses and must serve community service and pay hefty fines. Fortunately, the white sturgeon were still alive when the poachers were apprehended and were released alive back into the Bay.

This poacher spent 20 days in jail in hopes of changing his behavior. Luckily, the quick-thinking juvenile sportsmen were able to report what they witnessed to the Oregon State Police through the TIP line, and we were able to apprehend this individual and release the large sturgeon back into the bay, said Senior OSP Trooper Justin Morgan.

These recent acts by young sportsmen to protect wildlife is a testament to values of young Columbia County residents and is a direct reflection of their parents and mentors, Morgan added. A game wardens biggest asset is the public doing the right thing by reporting poaching incidents.

Read Next: Fourteen Trophy Deer Heads Stolen from Canadian Hunters Cabin



The young men were awarded $500 each for their role through the states Turn In Poachers (TIP) Reward Program , which incentivizes folks to report wildlife crimes with cash and hunter preference points.
Photo: Erica Parise / Courtesy of Apple TV+

Given the verbal prompt Palm Beach in the late 1960s, your minds eye would undoubtedly conjure something fabulous. But this imaginary Florida aerie wouldnt conform to one specific style, like Art Deco or Hollywood Regency; it would probably be a layered mix of Spanish-style architecture with chinoiserie furniture in a Lilly Pulitzer color palette. Palm Beach style evolved from a unique mix of 20th-century architectural movements, which combined in a way that tells the story of its clientele and shifting tastes. So for production designer Jon Carlos and set decorator Ellen Reede, bringing the tropical technicolor world of the new Apple TV+ series Palm Royale to life was a challenge full of historical rabbit holes and creative complexity.

Palm Royale tells the story of Maxine Simmons, a pageant queen played with madcap glamour by Kristen Wiig, whos set her sights on conquering the cutthroat world of Palm Beach high society. The first three episodes premiered March 20, with new episodes airing weekly. The first scene in the series shows Maxine literally hoisting herself over the ivy-covered wall of the Palm Royale, the exclusive club from which the series takes its name. To kick-start the process of building the shows aesthetic world, series director Tate Taylor and executive producer John Norris presented Carlos with a key source: photographs by Slim Aarons, who captured mid-century high society for magazines like Life, Holiday, and Town & Country. One of the very first things I did was order every Slim Aarons photography book I could possibly get my hands on, Carlos tells AD. Carlos and Reede were especially inspired by one particular Aarons image, that of C. Z. Guest at Villa Artemis (her Palm Beach estate), and drew on it as they were designing the poolside home of the young society matron Dinah, played by Leslie Bibb.

C.Z. Guest Photo: Slim Aarons/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

Palm Royale Photo: Erica Parise / Courtesy of Apple TV\+

Though the development of Palm Beach dates back to the Beaux Arts hotels established by Elisha Newton Dimick (the Cocoanut Grove House, 1880) and Standard Oil cofounder Henry Flagler (The Breakers, 1896), the enclaves singular preppy-tropical aesthetic is the product of many influences. It began in the 1920s with the work of society architect Addison Mizner (18721933). Mizners Mediterranean Revivalstyle creations gave the area the look and feel of a centuries-old former Spanish colony that never was. A California native, Mizner drew inspiration at every turn from Spanish architecture, having seen its influence up close on his extensive travels with his father, the politician and lawyer Lansing Mizner, in Guatemala and Mexico when he was a boy. His palatial design for the Everglades Club dazzled visitors with elements like wrought-iron balconies, terra-cotta roof tiles, and pink stucco walls. This led to commissions from gilded clientele like the Vanderbilt, Wanamaker, and Phipps families, who made Palm Beach a destination in its own right. Joseph P. Kennedy purchased La Querida (the Wanamaker estate) in 1933, and the family spent time there for more than half a century. In the 1960s, John F. Kennedy stayed at the Colony Hotel, which was recently redesigned by Carleton VarneyDorothy Drapers successor.

Palm Royale Photo: Robert Ascroft / Courtesy of Apple TV\+

In addition to the Spanish-style details that remain part of the areas vernacular, Mizner was a great believer in the power of cross-ventilation. In each of the styles that have been popularized in Palm Beach, the main goal is always to encourage indoor-outdoor living, says Katie Jacob, vice president of the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach. Whether through a courtyard, loggias, balconies, or porch, there is always a connection to the outside in Palm Beach living. Firmly established as a town that loves a breezeway, Palm Beach came to embrace a vivid color palette in the middle of the 20th century. Clients in the area tapped Hollywood tastemaker Tony Duquette (19141999), who favored luxurious, deep-hued velvets, and the original society decorator Dorothy Draper (18891969), who almost single-handedly popularized chintz. A style that developed in the mid-century that is specific to Palm Beach is Palm Beach Regency, says Katie Jacobs. It is a tropical twist on the Regency style that was popularized by [developer] Clarence Mack when he developed Regents Park. In the postwar era, Palm Beach style leaned into botanical splendor. Rattan and bamboo furniture, grasscloth wallpaper, chandeliers designed to echo the shape of pineapples or coral, and the pastel-adjacent jewel tones popularized by Lilly Pulitzers designs crystallized Palm Beach style as we know it today.

Courtesy of Apple TV\+

Courtesy of Apple TV\+

Carlos and Reede were tasked with making the world of Palm Royale real, but they also needed to give each key character visual settings that would tell audiences who they are. When it came time to create a luxe cocoon for matriarch Norma Dellacorte (the inimitable Carol Burnett), Carlos and Reede knew Tony Duquette was exactly who Norma would have hired had she existed. Tony Duquette was good friends with Elsie de Wolfe, says Ellen Reede, and they had often traded letters and notes on each others designs. With this in mind, the team made Normas set luxurious and old-world, sophisticated, and a bit cluttered. We almost wanted a Wuthering Heights feel to her house, where it had been this grand estate, but as shes gone into assisted living, ivy and vines are taking over the house in a very beautiful and romantic way. And it shows the historic history of her presence in Palm Beach, says Carlos. Younger socialite Dinah, by contrast, is married to a diplomat, and her domain is brighter, preppier, neoclassical, and aspirationally tasteful.

Palm Royale Photo: Erica Parise / Courtesy of Apple TV\+

Most of the filming took place in Los Angeles, so although the sets look like historic mansions, much of what you see has been custom-built and decorated by Reede and her team with objects from 1stDibs, Chairish, and Melissa Levinson Antiques. Every drawer in every piece of furniture is full of objects and ephemera, so that the actors would be immersed in their characters lives. These women had a tremendous amount of money, and so they would have their designers go off to Europe and shop and bring back all of these antiques, says Reede. If they found an ideal piece of furniture, theyd reupholster it complete with fringe and piping. Between that level of detail and the veritable forest of live plants that lent some East Coaststyle humidity to the set, you almost believe youre strolling on Worth Avenue.

Palm Royale Photo: Beth Dubber / Courtesy of Apple TV\+

Palm Royale Photo: Erica Parise / Courtesy of Apple TV\+

Palm Royale Photo: Erica Parise / Courtesy of Apple TV\+

Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest

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The men were under investigation for more than six months, CDFW said in a press release.

Seven men in Southern California were recently charged in what the state called "an unlawful fish sales case." According to a California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) press release , the poaching bust involved a network of recreational fishermen who sold more than 5,500 pounds of fish for over $26,000 with no regard to limits, documentation or adhering to the highly regulated business practices of the commercial fishing industry.

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David and Nicholas Haworth of San Diego were buying and selling the catches of recreationally caught fish without documenting or landing the catches. The duo also falsified official documents to hide their poaching crimes.

The Haworths worked with at least six local recreational anglers who engaged in numerous illegal fishing activities including failing to register as a commercial fishing vessel or obtaining the required permits, selling fish caught on a commercial passenger boat, and altering documentsamong other wildlife infractions.

The recent bust is the culmination of a six-month-long investigation into the Haworths and their illegal operations. Nicholas Haworth pleaded guilty to two counts of the unlawful sale of recreational-caught fish and received a $10,000 fine and court-ordered community service. David Haworth also received court-ordered community service and must host six events feeding fish to the homeless at the local food bankone of the more creative poaching punishments in recent memory .

Mitchell Bradford, Lucas Dirkse, and Brandon Demelo pleaded guilty to one count of the unlawful sale of recreationally caught fish. They were fined $5,000 each. Tanner and Trevor Whitmarsh were charged in civil court for unfair business practices and must pay a fine of $60,000 each. David Brown didnt appear in court and there is an active warrant out for his arrest.

Read Next: Oregon Poacher Serves Jail Time After Capturing Giant 80-Year-Old Sturgeon

Many of us live in San Diego because we appreciate the regions natural wonders, including the fish that populate our rivers and oceans, said San Diego City Attorney Mara W. Elliott. Californias strict environmental laws exist for one reason: to protect nature and to ensure its existence for generations to come. Our ability to enjoy the outdoors depends on vigorous enforcement and prosecution of the laws that preserve our surroundings.
Its the stuff of science fiction: a city of gleaming skyscrapers, with futuristic aircraft gliding airily to and fro across the skyline. This is no galaxy far, far away, however, but London in two years time  according to a paper published by the Department of Transport. In the Future of Flight action plan, it revealed that the citys first flying taxis could take off as early as 2026, with autonomous air cabs to follow in 2030.

Cutting-edge battery technology will revolutionise transport as we know it  this plan will make sure we have the infrastructure and regulation in place to make it a reality, said Anthony Browne, the Minister for Aviation and Technology. From flying taxis to emergency service drones, were making sure the UK is at the forefront of this dramatic shift in transportation, improving peoples lives and boosting the economy.

London isnt the only major city to be exploring the possibilities of taking to the skies with eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) vehicles  the race is on to be the first place to do just that. Last month, Dubai announced its intention to launch the worlds first electric air taxi service in 2026, while New York has set an even more ambitious target of 2025. Both are working with Californian company Joby Aviation, which carried out its first urban test flight at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport in November 2023.

Downtown Manhattan Heliport was the location for New York's first urban eVTOL test flight last year - Getty/iStock

Despite this, its another country that appears to be leading the pack: last year, the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC) gave its approval to an eVTOL taxi made by EHang, a tech company based in Guangdong province. An 80 million deal has already been struck with the city of Hefei to provide 100 craft for tourist flights and the emergency services. Meanwhile, companies looking to launch their services in London are still waiting for the green light from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

What exactly are eVTOLs?

Around 150 firms are busy developing eVTOLs at the moment; each design differs from the next, but for the most part they look like futuristic helicopters. As the name suggests, theyre battery-powered, so have been touted as a much greener alternative to combustion-powered forms of transport (although whether they are truly eco-friendly seems to be a point of contention). Theyre also supposedly a lot quieter: California-based eVTOL-manufacturer Archer Aviation, for instance, claims its aircraft, when in flight, will produce significantly less noise than a car passing by at 30mph.

These vehicles can take off and land vertically, which is advantageous in an urban environment. Not that they will be able to set down in a supermarket parking bay: infrastructure will either have to be built or repurposed, meaning there could be a proliferation of small aerodromes or vertiports popping up in major cities.

California-based eVTOL-manufacturer Archer Aviation claims its aircraft will produce significantly less noise than a car passing by at 30mph - Jeff Ludes

This throws up its own set of challenges: how many need to be built, how will the space be found to build them, and how will customers get to and from the landing pads? Will they be able to walk, or will they have to hail an Uber?

While space is at a premium in London, there are existing aerodromes in and around the capital that can be adapted to support electric flight, says Will Nathan of Vertical Aerospace, a British eVTOL manufacturer based in Bristol.

There are companies exploring the potential for rooftops in London to be adapted to enable a convenient network of routes. It will also include adapting existing aerodromes, such as Heathrow or Manchester, as well as the development of new bespoke vertiports, which will be designed for this specific aircraft. Skyports, a UK-based vertiport developer, recently announced it plans to build such a facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire, says Nathan.

How expensive will they be?

Could catching an air taxi be as cheap and simple as booking an Uber in the near future? Some eVTOL companies are promising fares as low as $3 (2.40) per mile, although a study by NASA has estimated that up to $11 (9) per mile might be a more realistic proposition. It sounds pretty affordable, but with manufacturing costs at around 1 million per aircraft, can it really be viable?

Dubai has announced its intention to launch the world's first electric air taxi service in 2026 - Getty/iStock

For Nathan, the likelihood is that eVTOL travel will be pitched at the wealthy, if only in the short term. Our intention is for these electric aircraft to become a modern and iconic method of transport all over the world, he says. As with all new technologies where demand is high and supply limited, like with the first smartphones or electric cars, we expect fares initially to be at the premium end, but we fully expect prices to drop as supply increases.

The operating costs of these aircraft are also significantly lower than a conventional plane or helicopter and over time we expect eVTOLs to compete with traditional forms of ground transport such as trains and taxis.

That is assuming, of course, that they can earn the publics trust. The inherent issue with air travel is that when things go wrong, they often go catastrophically wrong, and while eVTOLs are overloaded with failsafes to prevent such a disaster (some companies promise two emergency backups to every component), travellers may prefer to stick with cars and trains for the time being.

By 2030, though, the picture could be very different. Approval from the CAA would surely provide a huge boost for consumer confidence in eVTOL travel and, as long as providers are able to run their services free of incident, theres no reason why flying taxis couldnt take to the skies over London  and across the world  in the very near future.

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Senator Tammy Duckworth still hasnt seen Barbie. Last summer, she made headlines when she told Politico that a broken elevator prevented her and other wheelchair users from accessing a movie theater, ruining a planned outing with her daughters. That kind of thing happens to her a lot. When shes home in Chicago, the Democratic senator from Illinois feels like she cant even ride the L train, because she doesnt know whether the station shes traveling to is up-to-date on posting its accessibility. And once when she was unable to enter a Chicago Drybar, she was told the building was exempt from accessibility requirements because it was built prior to the passage of the watershed Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990.

Dont you want my money? Dont you want me to have access, so that I can spend money? she asks of the many businesses that wont accommodate her. Theres no question that in so many ways, things are better than they once were for people with disabilities. But so many challenges remain. Weve made a lot of headway. People expect there to be access. But I dont think people understand that theres still a long way to go. Thats why she shared the Barbie story. I want to bring attention to the fact that people are still being left out, Duckworth says. Even U.S. senators.

Duckworth was born in Bangkok to an American dad and Thai-Chinese mom, and was raised in Hawaii. They were a military family, and Duckworth enlisted in the Army Reserve and was deployed to Iraq with the Illinois National Guard in 2004. Only months in, her helicopter was hit by a grenade and she became a double amputee. In 2014, she had her daughter Abigail, followed by Maile in 2018, becoming the first U.S. senator to give birth while in office. For her, the scope of disability rights extends far beyond building access. In 2022, weeks after the Supreme Court ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade, she and Senator Patty Murray of Washington introduced the Reproductive Healthcare Accessibility Act, to strengthen access to reproductive health care for disabled women, who are 11 times more likely to experience maternal mortality.

In January, she made another effort to shore up reproductive rights, introducing the Access to Family Building Act with Pennsylvania congresswoman Susan Wild. It would establish the statutory right to assistive reproductive technology, which includes IVF and can be critical in helping people with disabilities start families, as it was for Duckworth. The system is not set up to listen to persons with disabilities. There are even doctors, folks who feel that if you have a disability, you shouldnt be having children because you cant properly take care of them, she says. Theres a lot of this ableist imagery and notions being put on persons with disabilities. I have two beautiful girls, and Im grateful for them. I was able to use IVF, and just because I have a disability doesnt mean that I cant be a good mom.

Chip Somodevilla - Getty Images

On her biggest goal for her career

When I chose to serve in the military, I was both a National Guard officer and a staff member at Rotary International, and I dreamed of a future of either working in international aid with the nonprofit that I was working at in my civilian job, or working as a career aviation officer in the Army. But that dream changed the moment an RPG tore through the cockpit of the helicopter that I was copiloting in Iraq. Im only alive today because of the bravery and heroism of my buddies, who refused to leave me behind and risked their lives to bring my body back home to my family. When I woke up in Walter Reed 11 days later, I vowed to find a way to repay my buddies who brought me home, as well as all of those who sacrifice so much for our great nation. While I cant fly air assault missions anymore, I found my new mission in public serviceusing my role as a U.S. senator to not only support our military and veterans, but also strengthen aviation safety, improve the lives of working families, clean up our nations drinking water, advance environmental justice, and so much more.

On the mentor that changed everything for her

When I was in recovery at Walter Reed after the shoot down, Senator [Dick] Durbin visited me and gave me his card. He told me to call if there was ever a veteran who needed help or a problem that needed fixingand boy, did I call him a lot! It wasnt long until he asked me to join him as his State of the Union guest in 2005. Later, he encouraged me to run for office, and the rest is history. Im forever grateful for his mentorship and honored to work alongside him to improve the lives of Illinoisans.

On the moment from her career that still amazes her

The fact that this great nation chose me to represent her in uniform and trusted me to fly Black Hawks still amazes me. Also when I get dressed every day and put on my Senate pin and realize that Im a U.S. senator who gets to go to work and improve the lives of my fellow Illinoisans.

Alex Wong - Getty Images

On what she wishes she knew before getting into this business

It never occurred to me that I would have colleagues who would be willing to put their loyalty to a single person over the well-being of the entire country like they have with Donald Trump.

On how her thoughts around ambition have changed

My ambition has always been to serve my country and that hasnt changed.

On what she got wrong in the past and learned from

When I was young, I needed to learn how to get out of my own head. I needed to stop worrying about being one of the guys and learn to be true to myself. I needed to realize that my own instincts and my own experiences that I bring to the tablenot just as a professional, but also as a woman, as a mom, and as a daughtermake me a better leader.

Anna Moneymaker - Getty Images

On the status of women in politics and the progress they have made in terms of equality and representation

Ive spent much of my life working in male-dominated fieldsfirst in the military, and now in Congress. From flying helicopters overseas to passing bills in the Senate, Ive learned time and again the good that comes from bringing a different perspective to the conversation. I was able to better lead my helicopter company when I embraced the fact that I wasnt just one of the boysand Ive become a better legislator since I became a mom, passing bills that look out for working parents in ways I never would have thought of before I had my two daughters. Time after time, weve seen that elevating women only makes this nation stronger. While weve made progress, women still hold far less than half of the seats in Congressdespite making up 51 percent of the population. Theres still work to do.

Chip Somodevilla - Getty Images

On the changes that are needed to support women in politics

We need to get more women into the pipeline among congressional staff so we can have more female chiefs of staff to help us craft the policy that affects millions of Americans and working families. We also need to get more women elected at all levels of governmentfrom your local school board to the United States Senate and, yes, even the presidency.

On her career mantra

The Warrior Ethos: I will always place the mission first. I will never accept defeat. I will never quit. I will never leave a fallen comrade.

A version of this article appears in the April 2024 issue of ELLE.



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Around the West End, a different tune is being sung. Among the long runners, Disney shows, film adaptations, jukebox sing-alongs and star vehicles, a different sort of musical is making a mark, with the rise of younger, fresher fringey British shows  written and performed by exciting young talent, and covering all sorts of subjects from podcasters to Second World War espionage with great brio. And audiences love it.

From Six to Operation Mincemeat, from Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) to Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder!, these are original shows with no marquee stars and small, unknown casts, yet have organically built huge followings on journeys that have often included runs at the fringe or regional theatre on their way into the West End.

Critics and audiences are taking notice, as are awards judges. This month Operation Mincemeat, a musical about an extraordinary true-life mission masterminded by British intelligence in the Second World War, landed six Olivier Award nominations.

The show started at the New Diorama, a tiny venue with 80 seats, in 2019 and following runs at the Southwark Playhouse and the Riverside Studios, made it to the West Ends Fortune Theatre last year  the venue where Woman in Black had played for more than three decades.

It felt very exciting, says Natasha Hodgson, one of the shows creators and stars  and who happens to be up against Nicole Scherzinger at the Oliviers in the category of Best Actress in a Musical. The West End was a ridiculous step, but it was still the thing we do. We go on stage together; we make silly jokes and do our silly songs.

Mincemeat  which takes a serious story and turns it into a riotous comedy shot through with catchy tunes, though never making light of the human cost of the war  caught audiences by surprise and became a word-of-mouth sensation. This show wears its fringe credentials on its sleeve and as the audience you do have to buy into coming along with us, Hodgson says. And they have, many of them repeatedly.

From left: Claire-Marie Hall, Zoe Roberts, David Cumming, Natasha Hodgson and Jak Malone in Operation Mincemeat (Matt Crockett)

It has extended eight times already and has built up a devoted army of fans, dubbed Mincefluencers. Indeed, it was the Mincefluencers who dug through reams of archives to discover the real identity of one of the principal characters, thought lost to history. There is now a permanent plaque dedicated to this war hero, Hester Leggatt, at the theatre.

Hodgson is delighted that more unusual stories are finding audiences in the West End, It really is so exciting to be part of a movement of new fresh stuff. I hope new writers can now see it isnt a hopeless gulf to try and jump over, she says.

Its easy to think with musicals that for the audience to be happy it has to be enormous and have so much money spent on it. Whats really lovely about this new trend is that it puts faith in the audience to say, We can show you a great story, sing you great songs and tell jokes and produce something believable. Then audiences will love it and will go with you.

Though she adds that these shows are complimentary to the big West End beasts, from Mamma Mia! to Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables. You need both ends of the spectrum. The big guys are keeping the West End running and theyre a gateway to people coming to the theatre.

Producer Jamie Wilson, whose shows include Two Strangers, as well as Live Aid musical Just for One Day at the Old Vic and many others, says I think theres never been a better time for the original musical. In the last 10 years weve developed a musicals community that New York had for much longer, but weve really invested in that community and theyve become stronger.

He adds, London is buzzing with musicals. Its exciting, its a brilliant time to be working in theatre in the West End.

Bronte Barbe and Rebekah Hinds in Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder! (MIHAELA BODLOVIC)

Francesca Moody, the original producer of Fleabag at the Edinburgh Fringe and whose new show, Kathy and Stella, opens in the West End soon, after a successful run at Edinburgh and on tour, agrees that its a real moment for these indie musicals.

There is a generation shift happening in the West End, she continues. There are younger producers  many of whom are women  and because of that theres an energy around the type of shows going into the West End, the stories were telling, the diversity of the stories.

She adds, In my mind, the West End will only survive and thrive if we energise it in that way: diverse stories, cheaper tickets, original work And part of the success is that many of the shows feel like theyre about real people, whom audiences can sympathise with. Kathy and Stella is a comedy musical about outsiders who find each other through their passion for true crime. A lot of people see themselves in these stories.

Even with Six, written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss while they were still students  which was at the vanguard of this trend, starting at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2017 and now playing on Broadway and the West End  may be nominally about Henry VIIIs wives, but it tells its story through highly contemporary pop anthems about love and loss that are very relatable for many.

It's undoubtedly harder to sell tickets without a star name attached to a production, but for these shows, the star becomes the music, the star is the show, Moody says. They have to retain the energy that they started with on the fringe and add a West End shine.

Thats where word of mouth becomes invaluable. Audiences love the sense of discovery these smaller shows offer, and the chance to pass a on good recommendation to friends and family.

Sam Tutty and Dujonna Gift in Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)

Moody says, Its hard to get people to come to the theatre because of Netflix, Spotify, podcasts, restaurants. Everything else is easier  but get people into a theatre in front of a really good show and theyll come back three more times that year and theyll tell their friends.

Ameena Hamid, who is a producer on Why Am I So Single?, Marlow and Mosss much anticipated follow up to Six which arrives later in the year, says the key is being authentic in how we talk to audiences, approach them finding them on Instagram and TikTok, places where they actually are.

They are bringing in broader, younger audiences because the work is broader and skews younger. Thats what were seeing now. A lot of developing audience has also been around cheaper tickets, but also about what do people actually want to see, Hamid says.

Creators are living in the real world today and thats where a lot of the exciting stuff happens. The nice thing about Strangers, and Single and Mincemeat is that all of those teams are being genuine in what theyre talking about.

Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) is a sweet, odd-couple musical inspired by the rom-coms of the Eighties and Nineties. Written by Jim Barne and Kit Buchan, it was developed in regional theatre before an acclaimed run at the Kiln in Kilburn. Soon it opens in the Criterion Theatre on Piccadilly Circus.

Enough shows are succeeding without stars or recognisable IP that it cant be ignored. Theres something stirring that is making these shows possible, Buchan says. I love the idea of being part of a community of new writers who have managed to pull this off. We love all those shows and love the idea of being mentioned in the same breath as them.

There are more coming, including Babies, a show about a year 11 class who have to keep a fake baby alive for a week after a rise in teen pregnancies concerns the school, and there are hopes for more that are currently playing in the regions.

Its a wonderful feeling and very unlikely, Buchan says. Its also really cool its happening for us and those other guys all at the same time. Maybe at some point in the future well all go to the pub together and get to know each other.

Kayleigh Mcknight, Janiq Charles, Reca Oakley, Thao Therese Nguyen and Inez Budd in Six the Musical (Dave Benett)

There is a flipside to this good news story. Part of the reason they can come into the West End at all is they have small casts and bands, making them much cheaper to put on. Theatre is still dealing with the fall-out of funding cuts, austerity, the cost of living crisis and Covid.

Mincemeats Hodgson is wary of being too celebratory, cautioning that the development opportunities offered to her and many contemporaries a decade ago are vanishing. The deluge of new musicals coming out now comes from a time when this was a lot more possible as a viable career path. There was Vault Festival, the Edinburgh Fringe was cheaper, Arts Council grants were easier to get and there were more of them.

I fear those things are drying up. You wont see it immediately but youll see it in 10 years. The people who need to make silly works, make mistakes, are just not able to do that. Where will these young makers learn their craft?

Operation Mincemeat is at the Fortune Theatre; operationmincemeat.com, Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) is at the Criterion Theatre; buy tickets here, Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder is at the Ambassadors Theatre; buy tickets here, Six is at the Vaudeville Theatre; buy tickets here, Babies is at the Other Palace; buy tickets here
Technically Doing It, a crew of Black and Brown pro snowboarders founded by Luis Madearis and friends, is hosting an awesome three-day event at Mayrhofner Bergbahnen in Austria.

The 6290 Showup is the first event of its kind and is focused on increasing inclusivity in snowboarding.

Luis Medearis posted on his Instagram in conjunction with TDI and Mayrhofner:

"We are super excited to announce that @technicallydoingit will be hosting The 6290 Showup at @mountopolis.at @penkenpark in Austria March 27th-29th! With this being Europe's first inclusivity snowboard event we want to invite everyone to come ride and apres with us!"

Catalyzing and fostering inclusivity in the mountains is so important and Technically Doing It hosting this event is so rad! Their work positively shaping the snowboarding community is impactful and steadily increasing.

There will be three days of on hill events, followed by an afterparty in Innsbruck. The Instagram post shared details:

"March 27th Day 1 - Ride with the @chillfoundation

March 28th Day 2 - Ride and Apres

March 29th Day 3 - Ride and Apres/ After Party in Innsbruck ( details TBA)"



On March 27th, TDI invites everyone to ride with the Chill Foundation, which helps youth learn and grow through participation in snowboarding and other action sports. After that, the crew invites everyone to hang out in the park. We love building community and increasing inclusivity in snowboarding, so we're huge fans of the efforts and passion of the TDI crew--and their boarding is pretty epic, too. This is going to be a really good time, so get over to Penken Park if you're nearby!

Last season, TDI went to Stubai for Thanksgiving and released this edit of the trip.

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Pheu Thai Party MPs Sakchai Tancharoen, left, and Thantaree Santapan wave LBGTQ flags in Parliament, in celebration of the marriage equality bill - RUNGROJ YONGRIT/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Thailand has become the first country in southeast Asia to pass a bill legalising same-sex marriage, cementing its reputation as the regions haven for LGBTQ+ couples.

After years of campaigning, the landmark legislation was passed by an overwhelming majority on Wednesday  with 400 of the 415 lawmakers present approving the bill.

I got goosebumps [when it passed], its really a historic moment, its monumental, Mookdapa Yangyuenpradorn, a human rights associate at Fortify Rights who advised parliament on the bill, told the Telegraph.

Marriage equality is not just about two people getting married, its a matter of life and death  its the right for a couple to be able to sign health care consent forms, to be able to adopt, access inheritance, or spousal benefits like tax deductions, she said.

The legislation  which changes the definition of marriage from a man and a woman to two individuals  still requires approval from the Senate and royal endorsement to become law, but this is widely expected to occur before the end of the year.

LGBTQ activist Matcha Phornin, right, who was involved in the bill, pictured with her long-term partner - Matcha Phornin

This will make Thailand only the third country in Asia to recognise same-sex marriage, following Taiwan and Nepal, after recent pushes in places including Hong Kong and India stalled.

The bill also builds on existing anti-discrimination legislation to further cement Thailands reputation as a relative haven for the LBGTQ+ community in southeast Asia, where countries including Brunei and Malaysia still criminalise same-sex intimacy.

I hope this will inspire other countries in the region to follow suit and make changes to laws, policies and practices regarding LGBTQ+ rights and protections, said Ms Yangyuenpradorn.

A better life for the next generation

Despite broad public support  with a poll late last year suggesting 96 per cent of people were in favour of the bill  getting to this point has been a bumpy road, with several previous drafts failing to make it through parliament. But the recent administration, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has made it a signature issue.

As well as changing the legal definition of marriage, the new laws will give LGBTQ+ couples equal rights to get marital tax savings, to inherit property, and to sign medical consent forms should their partner be incapacitated.

When the vote won today, we were crying in parliament  because its not just today, our struggle has been over 10 years, Matcha Phornin, an activist involved in drafting the bill, told the Telegraph.

She added that the legislation demonstrates that Thai society accepts the LGBTQ+ community, and will make a better life for the next generation.

This means so much, because we have the recognition of our rights and acceptance in our society. The law would never pass if society doesnt accept us.

Matcha Phornin with her long-term partner and daughter - Matcha Phornin

Ms Phornin added that she intends to marry her long-term partner once the law comes into force, to both celebrate their love and capitalise on the rights already available to hetrosexual couples.

This law wants to return these rights to this group of people, not grant them the rights, Danuphorn Punnakanta, an MP and chairman of the lower houses committee on marriage equality, told parliament while presenting a draft of the bill, where rainbow flags were widely on display.

This is the beginning of equality. Its not a universal cure to every problem but its the first step towards equality, he said.

Many others were also celebrating the landmark ruling in Bangkok on Wednesday, including Thanawin Khampan, 32, who is now starting to think about marrying his boyfriend of three years.

This is great news, its the beginning of equality. Im glad that it is going to happen soon, he told the Telegraph. I think if we get married, we will have our families join and celebrate together like a small wedding.

Thitichayaa Tranantasin, 30, added that the bill has changed how she thinks about her country.

Back then, I thought [society] did not truly accept our community, she said. If I had the chance to make use of the legislation, I would Im really grateful if Thailands government legalised same-sex marriage.

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Mifepristone will soon be available (with a prescription) at some CVS and Walgreens pharmacies. (Getty Images)

Mifepristone, a drug thats typically used in combination with another drug called misoprostol in medication abortions, has been under fire ever since Roe v. Wade, which protected the right to abortion in the United States, was overturned in 2022. According to the Guttmacher Institute, medication abortion is the most common abortion method in the U.S., surpassing surgical abortions for the first time in 2020. Mifepristone is currently in the middle of a political tug of war, with some conservative states seeking to restrict or eliminate access to the abortion pill, while other states are trying to protect and expand access. Also, the Biden administration has recently allowed certified pharmacies to dispense medication abortion. Heres what you need to know.

 What is mifepristone?

Mifepristone is a medication that effectively blocks the hormone progesterone and can be used, in combination with misoprostol, to end a pregnancy up to the first 10 weeks of gestation. When someone first gets pregnant, there are a lot of changes in hormones, and one of the most important hormones at the beginning of a pregnancy is progesterone, Dr. Jessica Shepherd, an ob-gyn, tells Yahoo Life. Shepherd explains that progesterone helps sustain a pregnancy, while mifepristone has an anti-progesterone effect, essentially blocking the hormone from doing what it needs to do early in pregnancy, so it cant sustain the pregnancy.

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Mifepristone is exceptionally safe, says Shepherd, noting that the drug has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration since 2000. Its been used for decades, she notes. Its approved in nearly 100 countries. Womens health expert Dr. Jennifer Wider agrees, telling Yahoo Life, "Many, many studies have fully established the safety and efficacy of mifepristone.

Recommended reading

 Whats happening with CVS and Walgreens selling abortion pills?

On March 1, CVS and Walgreens  two of the largest pharmacy chains in the U.S.  announced that they will soon start selling mifepristone via a prescription in states where its legal to do so. Walgreens is now dispensing the medication at select certified locations in New York, Pennsylvania, California, Illinois and Massachusetts, while prescriptions will become available at CVS Health in Rhode Island and Massachusetts in the weeks ahead, according to CVS spokeswoman Amy Thibault.

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The Biden administration called the move an important milestone in ensuring access to mifepristone. Many experts applaud the decision. I think its good news and helps ensure womens reproductive rights, says Wider. Shepherd says that the move clearly shows that Walgreens and CVS are making a stance toward how can we get women the care they need? Its so imperative and so overdue. I look forward to seeing where its going and am hopeful it will expand to other states as well.

Recommended reading

 Whats happening with the Supreme Court and mifepristone?

After a federal judge in Texas ruled to suspend the FDAs approval of mifepristone in April 2023, which would have pulled the drug off the market, theres been an ongoing legal battle over access to the medication. In August 2023, an appeals court in New Orleans upheld some restrictions to the abortion pill  essentially, banning telemedicine prescriptions and mail delivery of mifepristone. However, that ruling was put on hold until the Supreme Court could weigh in, allowing in the meantime access to the drug in states where abortion is legal. On Dec. 13, 2023, the Supreme Court agreed to hear appeals from the Biden administration and mifepristone manufacturer Danco Labs, both of which seek to reverse those restrictions. The court started hearing arguments on March 26. This will be the first time Supreme Court justices will weigh in on abortion since overturning Roe nearly two years ago.

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Recommended reading

 Why it matters

Experts say that patients should have access to mifepristone, with Shepherd calling it a reproductive justice issue. She notes that obstacles have been put in the way in states with abortion restrictions and that access to the medication provides ways for people to make decisions for themselves.

Wider agrees, saying: Access to mifepristone is very important because its use accounts for more than half of medical terminations across the country, and its safe and effective. She adds: It allows women to make these choices without putting themselves at risk.

This article was originally published on March 1, 2024 and has been updated.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. The Azerbaijan Insurance Association (ASA) and the Turkmenistan insurance sector have reached an agreement on establishing ties, Trend reports via ASA.

According to the information, ASA's CEO Elmar Mirsalayev held a meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan Gurbanmammet Elyasov.

The meeting touched upon the existing relations between the two countries in various spheres and emphasized that, for the first time, interaction between the parties will be established in the field of insurance.

During the meeting, the ASA CEO informed the Turkmen ambassador about the work done in the field of insurance, achievements, and international relations of the sector. He also spoke about the Insurance Union of the Turkic World, which was established on the initiative of ASA.

In turn, the ambassador touched upon the importance of insurance services and highly appreciated the work done in this direction, including the activities of the Turkic World Insurance Union.

Following the meeting, an agreement was reached to establish ties between ASA and the insurance sector of Turkmenistan.

ASA's primary objective is to foster the growth of insurance and reinsurance firms within Azerbaijan that are members of the association. This involves advancing their socio-economic agendas, implementing information and other initiatives, and broadening scientific expertise in the sector.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Another act of bloody terror of the Russian Federation against Ukrainians - Terekhov

One person was killed and at least 19 injured, including 4 children, in the afternoon Russian gliding bomb strike on a residential neighborhood in Kharkiv's Shevchenkivskyi district, hitting apartment buildings, Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov reported on Telegram on March 27.

Several five-story buildings and the Institute of Emergency Surgery were severely damaged in the 16:00 EET attack during an air raid alert.

 /Facebook

According to the preliminary reports of the regional military administration head, Oleh Synehubov, and the Police Investigation Department chief, Serhiy Bolvinov, the enemy used a cheap analogue of a cruise missile, Versatile Intermediate Gliding Munition UMPB D-30SN, manufactured on the basis of FAB-250 (air-dropped bomb with a high-explosive warhead)".

Kharkiv was hit by aerial bombs for the first time since 2022. The first bomb exploded behind a secondary school and the second in the middle of residential buildings, Bolvinov wrote on Facebook, sharing photos of the aftermath.

Read also: Kharkiv to end heating season ahead of schedule due to electricity shortage after Russian missile strike

"Kharkiv. Russian terror against the city is becoming particularly vile. Attempts to drive more than a million people into a blackout, constant attacks by missiles and Shahed (drones). Now - air bombs. Just on an ordinary street, on houses, schools, ordinary civilian infrastructure," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram.

Kharkiv was left almost completely without electricity after Russia's largest massive attack on the power system on March 22, when Russia fired more than 150 targets into Ukraine. The city experienced problems with water and heat supplies.

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov reported on March 23 that electricity had been restored to 35% of the buildings and heating to 50%.

Read also: Russian mass attack shuts down metro, trolleybuses, and trams in Kharkiv

Ukrenergo reported on March 24 that the power supply situation in Kharkiv could improve in about a week.

The Kharkiv metro, which had been out of service after a massive Russian attack on the power grid, reopened on March 25.

The head of the Kharkiv Oblast State Administration, Oleh Synehubov, said that about 200,000 households in the city were cut off from electricity.

Kharkivoblenergo reported on the same day that all customers in Kharkiv and the region had been reconnected, but were now receiving electricity according to a schedule. There may also be blackouts due to emergency or scheduled outages.

There is a catastrophic shortage of electricity in Kharkiv as of March 27 amid Russian strikes, the Kharkiv Heating Networks company reported on Telegram, calling on residents to minimize the use of electric boilers.



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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Wednesday marked one year since the Nashville community was devastated by what was the deadliest kindergarten through 12th grade school shooting in 2023.

On March 27, 2023, an armed intruder shot through a glass door and entered The Covenant School in Green Hills, leading to the deaths of three children and three adults. The victims included Evelyn Diekhaus, William Kinney and Hallie Scruggs, all age 9, and Mike Hill, 61, Cynthia Peak, 61, and Dr. Katherine Koonce, 60.

Covenant School shooting was deadliest K-12 school shooting this year, data says

There is no world in which this will ever make sense to me, District 34 Metro Councilwoman Sandy Ewing said during discussion of a resolution honoring the victims last week. I think we all wish that the Covenant community had not had to face this, that they had not lost the people they loved, but they did, and their lives are forever changed.

(Photo: WKRN)

The Covenant School held its own private ceremony on the one-year anniversary to mourn those lost in the shooting. The school also acknowledged an overwhelming outpouring of love and support from the community in a statement on social media.

The pain is still very real: The Covenant School reflects a year after deadly school shooting

As we mark this painful anniversary, we find solace in the light that has emerged from the darkness, the school wrote. Your kindness has been a beacon of hope, and the depth of your generosity profoundly moves us.

Dispatchers received the first 911 call around 10:13 a.m. that day as the shooter was still combing the hallways. My children are in the building, maam, a caller said frantically.

Officers with the Metro Nashville Police Department arrived within minutes and began systematically searching the building. By the time the small team of officers had found and taken down the shooter, only 14 minutes had passed since the first 911 call.

Officers Rex Engelbert and Michael Collazo reportedly led the charge, with body camera video later demonstrating their quick actions. The officers who responded have since been recognized in many capacities for their bravery that day.

Our job is to run toward it: Officers recall moments leading up to take down of Nashville school shooter

The first responders that respondeddid what were trained to do, Nashville Police Chief John Drake said in a press conference following the shooting. They formed together, they got prepared and went right in knowing that every second, every moment wasted could cost lives.

A message to the school is one of many at a memorial for victims at an entry to Covenant School, Tuesday, March 28, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn., following a fatal shooting a day earlier. (AP Photo/John Amis)

Outside the school, students were ushered to safety and reunited with their parents. A memorial also formed at the entrance of the schools driveway, where people left thousands of flowers, stuffed animals, balloons, letters and handmade signs.

Anna Caudill, a friend of Dr. Katherine Koonce, later loaded up the items left at the memorial and brought them to her basement so that families of the victims could hold onto items they found meaningful, and some could potentially be preserved in museums.

First Lady Dr. Jill Biden was among thousands who attended a public vigil held in downtown Nashville two days after the shooting to celebrate the lives of the six victims. During the vigil, former Nashville Mayor John Cooper told the crowd, Nashville has had its worst day.

Parents, other Tennesseans demand gun reform

Mourning then turned to calls for action as protestors descended upon the State Capitol to demand gun reform. Gov. Bill Lee called a special session on public safety in August, but it was fraught with tension and tears.

One mother of a Covenant student and others broke down in tears in the halls of the Tennessee Statehouse after all audience members were kicked out of a Civil Justice subcommittee meeting for clapping and speaking after being told to stop.

Covenant mom in tears after being kicked out of special session subcommittee

Being here in general is rough. I dont think these people get what this means, Sarah Shoop Neumann said. We are here for six people who were killed in our school. We are just trying to do something.

FILE  Parents from The Covenant School comfort each other and hold signs above the House floor advocating for gun law reform during a special session of the state legislature on public safety Monday, Aug. 28, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. Throughout the corridors of many state Capitols, families are sharing emotionally gutting stories of tragedy caused by mass school shootings with the hope that revealing their trauma will convince lawmakers on either side of the political aisle to reconsider firearm policies. (AP Photo/George Walker IV, File)

Covenant mom Mary Joyce, whose daughter was friends with three of the victims, missed her childrens first days of fourth grade to be at the statehouse. She was among many Covenant parents who were outraged when no new gun laws were passed by the end of the session.

Our state has done nothing to make you safer or to prevent this from happening again and again and again and again, Joyce said.

Covenant parents deeply disappointed with lack of action during special session

As the regular session started back up this year, a spokesperson for the Tennessee House Republican caucus said they have several bills this session addressing mental health and public safety, despite another Covenant parent telling News 2 he feels like lawmakers are out of touch.

Many parents have continued showing up for regular session, with Shoop Neumann telling News 2, Were gonna do that until we get change. Joyce and Shoop Neumann were among those who helped form the non-profit organization Covenant Families for Brighter Tomorrows.

Covenant School parent Mary Joyce gets emotional during a Covenant Families Action Fund news conference on the steps of the State Capitol before a special session of the state legislature on public safety Monday, Aug. 21, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

The organization pushes for enhanced school security and mental health support and has a related action fund that advocates for legislative changes at the state and federal level.

During the Metro Nashville City Council meeting last week, multiple council members also spoke about the need for gun reform, with Ewing cautioning others to not become numb to what is in front of us.

Covenant School father speaks about lack of gun reform

Dont let this be our normal. Do not give up, she said. Hallie, Evelyn, William, Mike, Cynthia and Katherine, and all those who have been and continue to be killed by gun violence deserve no less.

In addition to the councils resolution honoring the victims of The Covenant School shooting, Voices for a Safer Tennessee, a nonpartisan coalition dedicated to prioritizing firearm safety, organized a human chain on Wednesday to demonstrate the hope felt by Tennesseans to strengthen public safety policies.

Legal battle continues over release of manifesto

As questions remain about the motives behind The Covenant School shooting, parents have also been involved in a year-long legal battle over whether the shooters so-called manifesto should be released to the public.

Police said they discovered several writings, as well as maps in the shooters car and home following the incident. While some argue the writings are public record, several Covenant family members have filed petitions asking for them to be kept private.

A police officer walks by an entrance to The Covenant School after a shooting in Nashville, Tenn. on Monday, March 27, 2023. (AP Photo/John Amis)

In a joint declaration, Evelyn Dieckhaus parents said they hope a more respectful, clear view can truly start to occur to help make a change that does not include releasing volumes of leverage for others planning similar devastation in this nation.

Trial dates set to determine whether Covenant manifesto should be released

A father of two children who attend The Covenant School also reported in his declaration that his children have recurring nightmares, are afraid of loud noises and the family is unable to go anywhere there are large crowds.

We pray that the shooters writings are never released to the public for fear of a copycat killer being inspired by an evil voice from the grave, he wrote.

However, some arguing for their release have said the writings could help prevent future shootings, with a few state lawmakers stating they want to use the information in the writings to understand why the shooting happened and develop policies to protect students.

The parents efforts were upended when in November 2023 radio host Steven Crowder posted some of the writings on social media after they were leaked to him by an unknown source. An investigation by the MNPD ensued as the agency tried to figure out who was responsible for leaking the documents.

Documents by Covenant shooter released by radio host

The police department provided an update a month later, saying officials had exhausted all available investigative avenues, but were still unable to determine who leaked the documents. Ten employees who were under review for possibly leaking the documents were later reassigned.

Despite that, the Covenant parents did experience a legal victory in November 2023 after the court ruled they would be allowed to share their opinions when the case goes back before a Nashville judge for a final ruling on the writings release in April.

During a hearing on Monday, Jan. 29, a chancery court judge set official trial dates for April 16 and April 17 to determine whether the writings should be released. The judge also declined to release any documents before the trial.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
This article was originally published in Nevada Current.

Nevada charter schools are clamoring to access the millions of dollars in financing now available to support capital projects, such as buying or expanding school buildings.

The Nevada Facilities Fund is a $100 million revolving loan fund setup by the State Infrastructure Bank to provide long-term, low-cost facility financing for charter schools that serve under-resourced communities. While it officially launched in October, the funds numerous partners held an event this week to celebrate the fund and highlight several charter schools expected to benefit from the fund.

Among them, Futuro Academy, a K-5 charter school in East Las Vegas that plans to purchase the space they currently lease. Futuro Executive Director Ignacio Prado said that, just as it typically makes more sense for an individual to buy their home instead of rent, schools have more long-term financial security if they own.

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The Nevada Facilities Fund (NVFF) was seeded with $15 million in public funding approved by the State Infrastructure Bank in early 2022, $80 million from national donors through the Equitable Facilities Fund, and $5 million from local philanthropists. The fund will also use a $12 million U.S. Department of Education grant awarded to Opportunity 180.

Opportunity 180 and Equitable Facilities Fund will vet and assist charter schools in accessing the NVFF. Leaders with those organizations say charter schools will save an average of $150,000 annually.

That savings will translate into more money spent in the classroom, said Opportunity 180 CEO Jana Wilcox Lavin. Some charter schools spend up to a quarter of the base per-pupil dollars they receive from the state on facilities.

Prado said Futuro could use their savings to boost special education services, support teachers, or reduce class sizes.

Charter schools are not currently eligible for dedicated facilities funding, which are generated at the county level through property taxes and provided to traditional school districts. They also cannot use public bonds to fund new buildings the way traditional school districts typically do.

By 2028, NVFF plans to finance 10 projects that support 7,500 new charter school seats. Because the funds awarded are loans, they should return to NVFF to support more projects into perpetuity.

Only schools that serve historically underrepresented populations are eligible for funding. Wilcox Lavin says this means the funds will primarily be awarded to charter schools already operating in Nevada, rather than proposed charter schools looking to open.

Beacon Academy Executive Director Tambre Tondryk said the Southern Nevada charter school, which enrolls credit deficient students at high risk of not graduating, is working to access the NVFF to help purchase their existing Spring Valley campus, where the lease is up next summer, or buying a new facility and relocating.

The second option is appealing because, like many charter schools, Beacons Spring Valley campus retrofitted an existing space not originally intended to be a school. (In their case, it was previously an office building.) A new space could give them the feel of a more traditional school, which does matter to students and staff.

Tondryk said lenders turned Beacon away when they were working out a location for their east side campus because the school appears to be severely underperforming when compared to the traditional school metrics, such as graduation rates. In Nevada, Beacon is approved and evaluated by the State Public Charter School Authority under an alternative framework that acknowledges they serve a unique population.

We couldnt get lenders to understand, she added, but the NVFF will make this time around so much simpler.

Another school working with NVFF on a project is Mariposa Language and Learning Academy. The Reno charter school, whose enrollment is almost entirely minority students, plans to purchase a new building that allows them to expand from their current 162 students to 300 students.

Praise for public-private partnerships

The Nevada Facilities Funds national partner, Equitable Facilities Fund, has provided more than $1 billion in capital to charter schools around the country since 2018. In 2022, EFF launched the Texas Equitable Facilities Fund, which is funded solely through philanthropic dollars.

That makes the Nevada fund unique, says Equitable Facilities Fund CEO Anand Kesavan.

Gov. Joe Lombardo, who briefly attended the NVFF event, spoke to the crowd of school leaders, elected officials and donors about the potential of public-private partnerships, suggesting more should be considered. He said it was unfair it had taken this long to get to this point.

Proposals related to K-12 education and charter schools are typically a battle in the legislature, he added. Democrats have been hesitant about supporting rapid expansion of charter and private schools, arguing that the state should focus on improving its traditional public school districts.

The Republican governor, who took office roughly a year after the State Infrastructure Bank proposed setting aside $15 million for charter school capital needs, praised Nevada State Treasurer Zach Conine, a Democrat, for going out on a limb and pursuing the facilities fund.

On his end, Conine acknowledged the reservations some of his Democratic peers have regarding charter schools, but said that the facilities fund is not a gamble but simply good business.

It might not be the most popular thing in some of the circles I run with, he added, but its the right thing to do.

Prado of Futuro Academy says he believes the launch of the NVFF could serve as a watershed moment that marks a turning point where the state sees the benefits of helping charter schools, particularly those wanting to establish or expand in the urban core.

He added, I think well look back and see this was a catalyst we needed.

Nevadas State Infrastructure Bank was created by the Legislature in 2017 but remained unfunded until 2021. That year, lawmakers approved $75 million in general obligation bonds to the bank, to be used for charter schools, affordable housing projects, and other social good projects that otherwise could not secure funding.

The State Infrastructure Bank, which Conine chairs, is expected to receive an update on the Nevada Facilities Fund during its next meeting, scheduled for Tuesday.

Nevada Current is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Nevada Current maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Hugh Jackson for questions: info@nevadacurrent.com. Follow Nevada Current on Facebook and Twitter.
Easter dinner can be a perfect opportunity to try out new recipes in your Crock-Pot or slow cooker.

Side dishes like carrots, scalloped potatoes, and green-bean casserole can be made in a slow cooker.

You can even use a slow cooker to make your Easter ham.

Easter is right around the corner, making it the perfect time to start planning your menu.

Easter meals typically include dishes like ham, lamb, potatoes, and fresh seasonal vegetables.

While often associated with winter stews and game-day dips, Crock-Pots and slow cookers are actually on the rise as a helpful cooking tool year-round. According to a Google Trends analysis over the last five years, searches for "slow cooker" typically rise in November and December, decrease at the start of the year, and then rise again along with the Easter holiday in March or April.

Business Insider consulted slow-cooker recipes and Leigh Anne Wilkes, the author of "Holiday Slow Cooker: 100 Incredible and Festive Recipes for Every Celebration," to determine the best slow-cooker recipes to make this Easter.

Here are 11 Easter dinner side dishes you can make in a slow cooker.

Mac and cheese is a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Slow cooker macaroni and cheese. Leigh Anne Wilkes

"Mac and cheese is amazing in the slow cooker and one of my favorite ways to make it," Leigh Anne Wilkes told Business Insider.

Wilkes likes to use a variety of cheeses in her recipe for slow-cooker mac and cheese  including sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and Parmesan  and she tops it off with a generous amount of crispy bacon.

"Whether you have a houseful of kids or it's just the two of you, the slow cooker can make cooking so much easier," Wilkes said. "I often refer to it as my secret weapon to getting dinner on the table."

You can also make creamy mashed potatoes in a slow cooker.

Mashed potatoes. Robynmac/Getty Images

Mashed potatoes can be a big hassle, from parboiling them to mashing and finding a space for them on the stove.

However, mashed potatoes can easily be made in a slow cooker. Just make sure to add water to your pot or you won't get the desired consistency for mashing. The potatoes should take about four hours to become tender enough to mash. Then, add in your heavy cream, butter, or chives to taste.

"Even if you don't cook in the slow cooker, it is the perfect way to keep things warm," Wilkes said. "The biggest challenge with a holiday meal is getting all the food done at the same time and the slow cooker is a perfect place to keep things warm while the rest of the meal finishes cooking. If your potatoes finish up before the main dish, keep them warm in the slow cooker."

Another option is a warm German potato salad with ingredients like mustard, crispy bacon, and softened celery.

The finished potato salad with bacon. Erin McDowell/Business Insider

However, you'll want to give yourself plenty of time, as it will take multiple hours for the potatoes to soften.

Buffalo-chicken dip is another quick and easy favorite for a holiday gathering.

Buffalo-chicken dip. AS Food studio/Shutterstock

One of the benefits of making a slow-cooker Buffalo-chicken dip  or any other side dish in a slow cooker  is that it can be prepared well ahead of time and reheated when you're ready to eat.

Green-bean casserole can also be made in a slow cooker.

Green-bean casserole. Elizaveta Korobkova/Shutterstock

Green-bean casserole is a favorite side dish at many holiday gatherings, from Thanksgiving to Easter, and it can easily be made in a Crock-Pot or slow cooker.

Slow-cooked glazed carrots are delicious and easy to make in a slow cooker.

Slow-cooker cinnamon and honey carrots. Leigh Anne Wilkes

Wilkes told Business Insider that one of her favorite ways to use a slow cooker on Easter or another holiday is by making her recipe for honey- or maple-glazed carrots.

"The slow cooker is the perfect thing to use when putting together a holiday meal," Wilkes said. "Especially when you are limited on oven space, it can be your second or third oven. I often have two or three slow cookers going for a holiday meal."

Balsamic Brussels sprouts make for a perfect side dish at Easter.

Brussels sprouts. Jayme Burrows/Shutterstock

Simply toss them in with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and cook until tender.

Top with balsamic glaze, goat cheese, pine nuts, and more for a delicious side dish.

Scalloped potatoes, or potatoes au gratin, are the perfect cheesy, creamy addition to any Easter meal, but you don't need to take up precious oven space to prepare them.

Scalloped potatoes. Joe Gough/Shutterstock

This recipe for slow-cooker scalloped potatoes from Damn Delicious instructs you to prepare the cream sauce beforehand, before pouring it over sliced potatoes in the slow cooker and cooking them on high heat for four to five hours.

Dinner rolls can also be made in a slow cooker or Crock-Pot.

Dinner rolls. AnnSal/Shutterstock

You might be shocked to discover you can actually make warm, fluffy dinner rolls in a slow cooker. One recipe from I Heart Eating teaches you how to make the perfect dinner-roll dough, then bake them only using a slow cooker.

You can also kick your rolls up a notch with these cheesy slow-cooker rolls.

Slow-cooker rolls. Leigh Anne Wilkes

"These Crock-Pot rolls are amazing," Wilkes told Business Insider.

Plus, since this recipe calls for frozen rolls, it cuts out a lot of the extra prep work. To make, dip each roll into mayonnaise, then melted butter, then cheese, and place them in the slow cooker. Then, sprinkle garlic powder and parsley over the top and bake for two hours on high.

If you want to cook more than one kind of meat, you can use a slow cooker to prepare an Easter ham.

Slow cooker ham. Leigh Anne Wilkes

I know that for my family, we usually have both lamb and ham on the table at Easter dinner. If you want to make another kind of meat as a side dish or alternative, a slow cooker can be a great way to make cleanup and cooking a snap.

"If I am doing a smaller size ham I will always do my ham in the slow cooker," Wilkes told Business Insider.

Wilkes' recipe uses a glaze made from brown sugar, maple syrup, and brown mustard.

Read the original article on Business Insider
RALEIGH, N.C. (WGHP)  In the wake of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, you may be wondering about the state of bridges in North Carolina.

In Baltimore, a cargo ship lost power and struck a support for the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday morning, causing a portion of the bridge to plunge into the water.

WATCH: Video shows moment Francis Scott Key bridge collapses after cargo ship crash

The North Carolina Department of Transportation says there are 13,700 bridges in the state under their jurisdiction. Of those, 1,150, or about 8.4%, are in poor condition. About 2,700, or about 19.7%, are functionally obsolete.

NCDOT clarifies that bridges identified as being in poor condition are still considered safe. These bridges may have components deteriorating or require significant maintenance or weight limits.

A bridge is "functionally obsolete" if it can no longer meet the demands of the traffic that uses it. These bridges may need to be improved or replaced due to issues such as narrow lanes, low height clearances or weight limits. These bridges are also considered safe by NCDOT.

NCDOT says it would cost more than $4 billion to replace all of the bridges in "poor condition" in North Carolina. For 2024, the state has given the department $333 million for replacements, $47 million for maintenance and $86.5 million for preservation, and the federal government added $139 million for replacement and $11 million for preservation.

Virginia Dare bridge in North Carolina (Getty Images)

Guilford County has more bridges than any other county with 502, according to data for January 2024. Of those, 34 are structurally deficient and 82 are functionally obsolete.

After Guilford, the counties with the most bridges in the state are Wake with 493, Buncombe with 438, Mecklenburg with 420 and Forsyth with 291.

North Carolina's longest bridge is the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge at 5.2 miles. The bridge, which opened in August 2002 and crosses the Croatan Sound near Edenton, was named in honor of the first English child born in the Americas. As of January 2024, this bridge is "not deficient" according to NCDOT.

Bridges in North Carolina are inspected at least once every two years. Inspectors look at facets of the bridge, like railings, decks and expansion joints, and a team of divers looks at parts of bridges that are underwater.

If NCDOT finds any safety or structural issues, the department may post a weight limit, make immediate repairs or close the bridge until the repairs can be made.

As a policy, NCDOT does not allow any traffic on bridges deemed unsafe.

A full list of all bridges in the state, including current condition, is available on the NCDOT website.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
CHICAGO  A 15-year-old boy was critically wounded in a South Side shooting Wednesday morning.

Police said the boy was in the 800 block of West 52nd Street just after 11:35 a.m. when two unknown males approached on foot and opened fire.

The 15-year-old sustained gunshot wounds to the chest and arms. He was transported to the University Chicago Medical Center in critical condition.

CPD said the gunmen fled eastbound.

No one is in custody. Anyone with information can leave an anonymous tip at cpdtip.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
FILE - Commuters wait to drive through the Holland Tunnel into New York City during morning rush hour traffic in Jersey City, N.J., on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. New York has become the first U.S. city to approve congestion tolls on drivers entering its downtown. Transit authorities approved the congestion pricing plan Wednesday, March 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, File)

NEW YORK (AP)  New York is on track to become the first U.S. city with congestion tolls on drivers entering its central business district after transit officials approved a $15 fee for most motorists headed to the busiest part of Manhattan.

Members of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority board on Wednesday voted to greenlight the congestion pricing plan, expected to go into effect in June. The board approved only minor changes to a plan presented to the public months ago, and brushed off requests for exceptions by dozens of groups of commuters.

The vote authorizes a $15 toll on most commuter passenger vehicles that drive into Manhattan south of 60th Street, a zone that's south of Central Park, during daytime hours. Tolls are higher for larger vehicles, and lower for late-night entries into the city, as well as for motorcycles.

Supporters of the new tolls say it will push more people to use public transport, reduce congestion to speed up public buses and emergency vehicles, reduce pollution, and raise money needed to improve the subway system. Opponents say the fees are a burden on workers and will increase the prices of staple goods that are driven to the city by truck.

To enter Manhattan, commuters from other states and boroughs already pay around $15 in bridge and tunnel tolls  and the congestion fee will come on top of that. Daily parking costs already run $25 to $50 in the congestion zone, which includes a dozen neighborhoods in Manhattan that are south of 60th street.

New Yorks plan has drawn lawsuits from small business owners and the state of New Jersey which demand more thorough environmental assessments before the plan moves forward. In court documents, state officials argue the plan will cost its commuters millions but won't fund improvements in New Jersey transit agencies, even as it funds public transit in New York and Connecticut.

The state Legislature approved the tolls in 2019, mandating that the program should raise $1 billion per year to fund public subway and bus systems for the citys 4 million daily riders. It also established the boundaries of the zone, which covers the busiest part of the city, and scaled back early proposals to include the area up to 86th Street. The pandemic and lack of federal regulation stalled the project.

Tolls will vary based on the time of day and the size of the vehicle, ranging from $1.75 for motorcycles crossing overnight to $36 for sightseeing buses and trucks with trailers during the day. The overnight period runs from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. on weekdays, and from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. on weekends.

Visitors without E-ZPasses  a device that collects toll information remotely  will pay more. And as on bridges, license plate readers are expected to identify other drivers, so that they can be billed by mail.

Taxis will charge passengers $1.25 per trip that touches the zone, while app-based rides will charge $2.50.

The vote Wednesday followed two months of public comment in which over 100 categories of drivers asked to be exempted from the tolls. They ranged from small groups like holders of diplomatic license plates to large groups like residents of the neighboring states of New Jersey and Connecticut.

But the $1 billion in toll revenue mandated by the state law meant that eliminating charges for one group would increase the price for everyone else, so most requests for exceptions weren't granted.

Some exceptions survived, including a free pass for emergency vehicles, specialized city vehicles, and buses with regular public routes or city school contracts. Vehicles carrying disabled people and certain low-income commuters also get a pass. Low-income drivers are eligible for discounts and tax credits.

If the plan survives those legal challenges, New York will become the first U.S. city to implement a congestion pricing scheme. Such schemes have been implemented in London, Stockholm, Milan and Singapore.

In 2017, Virginia officials implemented a toll system to reduce congestion during rush hour on Interstate 66 near Washington, D.C.
Police dive boats work around a cargo ship stuck under part of the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Wednesday. (Steve Helber / Associated Press)

The bodies of two men, found inside a submerged red pickup, were recovered from the wreckage of the Baltimore bridge collapse on Wednesday morning, officials said. And now the recovery mission has become a salvage operation.

The saga surrounding the Francis Scott Key Bridge began early Tuesday with a mayday alert from crew members of a 985-foot-long container ship en route to Sri Lanka.

"Numerous audible alarms" had begun blaring aboard the vessel at about 1:25 a.m. Tuesday, according to Marcel Muise, an investigator with the National Transportation Safety Board, who spoke at a news conference Wednesday evening.

At 1:27 a.m., the pilot ordered the cargo ship to drop the port anchor and issued "additional steering commands." The pilot then issued a radio call reporting the ship "had lost all power and was approaching the bridge."

A dispatch call to officers on the bridge followed shortly after, at 1:28 a.m.

I need one of you guys on the south side, one of you guys on the north side  hold all traffic on the Key Bridge," an emergency dispatcher told two police officers from the Maryland Transportation Authority, according to dispatch calls provided by Broadcastify.

As the ship approached, going 8 knots  about 9 mph  the two officers quickly stationed themselves on either side of Baltimore's storied bridge to stop all vehicles from driving over the 1.6-mile span.

A construction crew was at work on the bridge, repairing masonry and potholes. The dispatcher asked the officers to notify the foreman and see if the workers could be evacuated.

But it was too late. The ship plowed into one of the bridge's support pillars, sending portions of the span into the 50-foot-deep Patapsco River below.

At 1:29 a.m., the ship's data recorder captured sounds consistent with the collision of the bridge, Muise said, while at the same time, Maryland Transportation Authority cameras captured bridge lights going out.

Read more: Search called off for the night as 6 who plummeted from Baltimore bridge are presumed dead

"The whole bridge just fell down!" one of the officers shouted. "Start, whoever, everybody. The whole bridge just collapsed!"

Eight construction workers plummeted into the frigid waters below. Two were rescued; one declined treatment and the other was hospitalized. Authorities had to halt the initial search for the rest of the crew about 18 hours after the bridge's collapse, saying debris and changing currents were hampering rescue efforts.

The remains of two people were recovered Wednesday morning, Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. of the Maryland State Police said. The bodies were found just before 10 a.m. in a truck that was submerged in 25 feet of water near the middle of the bridge.

They were identified as 35-year-old Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes of Baltimore and 26-year-old Dorlian Castillo Cabrera of Dundalk, Md., Butler said. Fuentes was from Mexico and Castillo was from Guatemala.

Divers are no longer able to safely search around the wreckage due to the amount of debris, according to Butler, who added that search efforts around the bridge itself had been exhausted.

Butler said efforts would be focused on salvage now.

Based on sonar scans, we firmly believe that the vehicles are encased in the superstructure and concrete that we tragically saw come down, he said.

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said Wednesday that the Key Bridge was "fracture-critical." With this type of construction, she said, when one important section is fractured, the entire structure may be vulnerable to collapse.

The preferred method of construction today includes "redundancy" built into bridges, Homendy noted, which allows the structure to essentially transmit the load if one portion is compromised.

The bridge was in satisfactory condition, with the last fracture-critical inspection in May 2023, but investigators have requested additional safety documentation. Homendy said there are 17,468 fracture-critical bridges in the country today out of a total 615,000.

The bridge investigation could take as long as two years to complete, Homendy said, although the team will issue any urgent safety recommendations in the meantime.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott called the bridge's collapse "something out of an action movie." The region has since been grappling not only with the loss of a vital transportation link but also the closure of the Port of Baltimore, which experts say could severely hobble the economy.

But Scott also commended the officers who responded to the mayday alert and tried to keep everyone off the bridge before the crash.

By being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, these people are heroes, Scott said at a Tuesday news conference. They saved lives.

Read more: Would California bridges stand up to a direct hit? We asked experts

About 30,000 vehicles cross the bridge daily, but the collapse occurred well before the busy morning commute. At least five vehicles plunged into the water  a cement truck, three passenger vehicles and one vehicle that was unidentified  which rescue crews used sonar to detect, Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace told CNN.

The six men presumed dead are from Latin American countries, according to multiple reports.

Miguel Luna, from El Salvador, left for work at 6:30 p.m. Monday and didn't come back, according to immigrant services nonprofit We Are Casa. Luna was married and the father of three children. He had lived in Maryland for 19 years.

They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they cant give us information," Luna's wife, Maria del Carmen Castellon, told Telemundo 44. "Our heart is broken because we dont know if theyve rescued them yet. Were just waiting to hear any news.

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 38, was from Honduras and had lived in the U.S. for 18 years, his brother, Martin Suazo, told CNN. Sandoval was married and the father of an 18-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter.

One of Sandoval's relatives, Marina Maldonado Villeda, described Sandoval in a Facebook post as "a guy with warmth and quality of people, entrepreneur with a vision and mission to serve our community."

We wish with our hearts that he is alive, Our prayers to see you again and continue to enjoy your joy and enthusiasm. We hug you with the Suazo Sandoval family, Villeda wrote.

Guatemala's Foreign Ministry confirmed that two of the presumed victims were Guatemalan nationals, although the agency didn't identify them by name, saying only they were 26 and 35 years old and originally from San Luis, Peten, and Camotan, Chiquimula.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador also confirmed to reporters that three Mexican nationals were victims of the bridge collapse. One was rescued.

President Biden pledged Tuesday to use federal money to help rebuild the bridge and reopen the port, but Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg told reporters in a Wednesday news briefing that it would not be "quick or easy or cheap," noting that the span originally took five years to build.

Buttigieg also said that if it were not for the distress call, the quick actions of the first responders and the time when the collapse occurred, the death toll could've been much higher.

"If not for several factors ... loss of life might have been in the dozens," he added.

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.
El Paso County sheriff's detectives are investigating two separate drownings in canals close to the U.S.-Mexico border.

The bodies were each found about 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, March 27, in separate locations in canals in San Elizario and Tornillo, a Sheriff's Office spokesman said.

Border smuggling: Juarez police officers arrested in migrant kidnapping 'network of corruption'

The drowning victims had not been identified as an investigation continued by the sheriff's Major Crimes Unit.

Sheriff's officials said that one body was located in San Elizario in the 13600 block of Petunia Drive, which runs along a canal that runs parallel to the Rio Grande. The other body was found in the 200 block of Tornillo Guadalupe Road in Tornillo. The location is near the Alamo Alto Drain and the Tornillo Canal.

A week ago on March 19, the El Paso Fire Department's Water Rescue Team saved two people in a canal near Zaragoza Road in the Lower Valley. There was a report of possibly a third person in the water, who wasn't located.

Border Patrol warns of El Paso canal dangers

Last week, the U.S. Border Patrol issued its seasonal warning about the dangers of entering canals that parallel the Rio Grande.

The river and canals are currently flowing with large amounts of water released from upstream reservoirs in New Mexico for the irrigation season. A body was found in the Rio Grande last week.

Undocumented migrants are warned against jumping into canals in an effort to evade the Border Patrol. The canals may look calm, but there are deceptively strong currents under the water's surface, officials said.

A strong current flows in the main canal next to the border wall in the Lower Valley of El Paso during irrigation season in June 2023. Migrants are frequently found dead by ditch riders who patrol the irrigation canals.

Border Patrol agents have carried out more than 240 rescues in fiscal 2024 throughout the agency's El Paso Sector, which covers El Paso and all of New Mexico, officials said.

Immigration: Drownings in Rio Grande, canals: They're 'ditch riders' by trade but often find migrant bodies

"Ruthless criminal smugglers continue to recklessly endanger the lives of vulnerable migrants who do not understand the dangers of illegally crossing the border and are often coerced into these unpredictable canals," El Paso Sector Border Patrol Chief Anthony "Scott" Good said in a statement. "Transnational criminal organizations treat migrants as commodity for their own selfish financial gain and have little regard for their safety."

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: 2 dead in El Paso County border canal drownings
POLK COUNTY, Texas (KETK)  Two detectives from the Polk County Sheriffs Office were given a Lifesaving Award on March 13 for saving a man who shot himself in the leg.

Remarkable Woman Amy Hooten breaking barriers, serving community

Courtesy of Polk County Sheriffs Office

According to a release, Detectives Adrian Ontiveros and Christian Schanmier responded to a call of a man who accidentally shot himself on March 1 at around 10:42 a.m.

The sheriffs office said Ontiveros immediately applied a tourniquet to the victims leg, preventing further blood loss, while Schanmier provided further life-saving measures by applying direct pressure and wrapping the wound to stop the bleeding. Authorities said the actions of the detectives stabilized the victim and saved his life.

They demonstrated exceptional performance and composure in a serious life-threatening situation, to save a life, which without such intervention would have very likely resulted in death, the Polk County Sheriffs Office said.

Dynamite discovered in Rusk County storage building, police say

The detectives both received a Lifesaving Award for their actions, with family, friends and co-workers in attendance.

Sheriff Byron Lyons said he is extremely proud of the detectives for their selfless actions, work ethic and sincere professionalism.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. Azerbaijan and Hungary have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in the field of competition, Trend reports.

According to the State Service for Antimonopoly and Control Over Consumer Market, which is part of the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan, the memorandum between the State Service and the Hungarian antimonopoly agency includes an interagency exchange of experience in the areas of competition development, competition policy development, legal violation analysis, and other topics.



The MoU was signed during a State Service delegation visit to Hungary. The paper was signed by Mammad Abbasbeyli, head of the State Service, and Csaba Balazs Rigo, head of Hungary's antimonopoly agency.

The importance of strengthening bilateral ties to study the best practices in the field of competition development was emphasized during the meeting. The sides discussed the directions of the State Service's activities, the Competition Code, which will come into force on July 1 this year, as well as the regulatory policy and control tools of the competition authority according to the Code.

The State Service for Antimonopoly and Control Over Consumer Market plays a key role in formulating and executing state policies related to antimonopoly measures, public procurement, technical regulation, standardization, metrology, and consumer protection. Its primary objective is to foster an environment of fair competition and robust entrepreneurship, thereby promoting the sustainable growth of the national economy.

The State Service for Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Regulation was founded through a presidential decree issued on October 23, 2019, in the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
(WHNT)  Police say a teenager was arrested Wednesday after a police chase led to him crashing into a First National Bank in Ardmore, Tenn.

The chase began in Tennessee when the Elkton police chief and Ardmore AL/TN Police Department (APD) Captain Luna received an alert to look out for a vehicle with two teens inside. The teens, a girl from Franklin, Tenn., and a boy from Ashland City, Tenn., were both reportedly runaways.

HEMSI: Man killed after granite fell at Huntsville business

According to APD Chief Jereme Robison, the officers spotted and attempted to stop the vehicle but the teens took off.

The chase ended when the vehicle crashed into the First National Bank. Police say no one was injured in the crash.

The girl was released back to her father.

The boy was arrested, charged with evading and issued several citations by the Tennessee Highway Patrol, who worked the wreck. He was eventually released to his mother.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  Emergency personnel have cleared the scene after a crash late Wednesday morning that blocked traffic on Highway 17 Bypass near Coventry Boulevard.

The crash initially closed all of the northbound lanes of Highway 17 Bypass, but as of about 12:40 p.m., the road was fully reopened. A Myrtle Beach Fire Department spokesman said two vehicles collided in the intersection, but no additional information was immediately available.

A South Carolina Department of Transportation traffic camera showed a large backup of traffic in the area.

Count on News13 for updates.

* * *

Dennis Bright is a Digital Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on, Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
Taylor Holcomb-Barber

A second man has been sentenced to life in prison for killing a marijuana dealer four years ago during a robbery at a beachside motel in Daytona Beach.

Taylor Holcomb-Barber, 32, was found guilty of first-degree murder after a jury trial for killing Jeffrey Schusky, 34. Circuit Judge Karen Foxman sentenced Holcomb-Barber to the mandatory life in prison after the verdict was reached Friday.

Holcomb-Barbers co-defendant, Tarek Mneimne, 37, is already serving a life prison term after he was convicted of first-degree felony murder in the same killing.

Schusky was dealing marijuana and related products, such as marijuana edibles, out of Room 7 at the Happy Holiday Motel at 1617 N. Atlantic Ave. in Daytona Beach.

Mneimne was a friend of Schuskys and was visiting him the night of Jan. 18, 2020, Assistant State Attorney Heatha Trigones said during his trial. Trigones prosecuted both men.

Mneimne left the room and picked up Holcomb-Barber in Ormond Beach. The two men then drove back to the Happy Holiday.

Holcomb-Barber climbed into Schuskys room through a back window. Holcomb-Barber then struggled with Schusky before shooting him.

Holcomb-Barber grabbed two duffle bags' worth of drugs, climbed out the back window and fled with Mneimne.

But Holcomb-Barber dropped his cellphone as he fled. Investigators found it along with another cellphone outside near the back window.

Schusky died at the scene.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: 2nd man gets life in prison for drug-ripoff killing in Daytona Beach
Three L.A. County residents were sentenced to prison for laundering over $2.5 million in Target gift cards.

The trio was identified as:

Blade Bai, 35, of El Monte

Bowen Hu, 28, of Hacienda Heights

Tairan Shi, 29, of Diamond Bar

After a 10-day trial in September 2023, all three were found guilty of scamming victims into buying gift cards under the false pretense of resolving various financial problems, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

Between June 2019 and November 2020, prosecutors estimate over $2.5 million worth of gift cards were laundered.

The scheme involved a network of scammers calling victims and persuading them to buy one or more Target gift cards to rectify nonexistent issues. The targeted victims were often older adults, officials said.

During these calls, the suspects posed as law enforcement officers or government employees while telling the victims their identities had been stolen or warrants were issued for their arrest. Others were sent fake tech support emails claiming issues with the victims financial accounts.

Suspects wanted in distraction thefts targeting shoppers in Orange County

They also posed as retail and tech support staff claiming issues with the victims accounts and falsely offering to fix the nonexistent issues.

To resolve these problems, the victims were asked to send payment in the form of Target gift cards, authorities said.

Victims were told to purchase the gift cards, often more than one and typically in increments of $500. They were told to read the card numbers and access codes over the phone to the fraudsters.

Using this method, a China-based scam group known as the Magic Lamp sold over 5,000 fraudulent gift cards to the trio through the messaging app, WeChat, court documents said.

The trio used WeChat to coordinate the distribution of gift cards to runners who quickly spent the funds at Target stores in Los Angeles and Orange counties. They purchased a variety of items including expensive electronics, other gift cards and more.

The rapid transactions prevented victims from recouping the value on the cards when they contacted Target to report the scam, authorities said.

These defendants were part of a sophisticated, transnational fraud operation that targeted mostly older adults to cheat them out of their savings, said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada of the Central District of California. Protecting our most vulnerable community members is critically important, and we will hold accountable those who reach into our country to engage in these sorts of egregious fraud schemes.

Bai was found guilty of two counts of conspiracy to commit money laundering and was sentenced to 15 years in prison. He was ordered to pay $97,815 in restitution.

Woman discovers peeping Tom exposing himself outside L.A. apartment

Bai was arrested in November 2020 on a criminal complaint involving this case and was released on bond. Within days of his release, authorities said he engaged in yet another money laundering scheme involving Target gift cards. He was arrested in February 2022 and has remained in federal custody since.

Hu was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison and ordered to pay $57,156 in restitution. Shi was sentenced to eight years and ordered to pay $39,416 in restitution.

One of the runners, Yan Fu, 60, of Chino Hills, pleaded guilty in September 2022 to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. He is serving a 20-month sentence in prison and was ordered to pay $48,073 in restitution.

This case offers an important reminder to consumers that gift cards are for presents to friends and loved ones  they should never be used for payments to any government or corporate entity, said Acting U.S. Attorney Tracy L. Wilkison in the 2021 indictment. Dont be fooled by callers claiming to be with a government agency, a bank or any other institution demanding that you purchase gift cards. There is no reason to purchase a gift card to resolve a problem with an account, your Social Security number or a supposed criminal case.

Anyone who is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud can seek help by calling the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.

To report a gift card scam, contact the FBIs Internet Crime Complaint Center or the Federal Trade Commission. The public can also call 877-382-4357 or their local police department.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Palestinians inspect the site of an Israeli strike, in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip

DUBAI (Reuters) - At least 32,490 Palestinians have been killed and 74,889 injured in Israel's military offensive on Gaza since Oct. 7, the Gaza health ministry said on Wednesday.

There have been 76 Palestinians killed and 102 injured in the past 24 hours, the ministry statement added.

(Reporting by Clauda Tanios; Editing by Alison Williams)
The Nazi-inspired patch spotted on a Green Berets helmet cover in a National Guard units recent social media post originated with a 3rd Special Forces Group team, Army Times has learned.

Maj. Russell Gordon, a spokesperson for the 1st Special Forces Command, confirmed that 3rd Special Forces Group elements formerly used the unofficial emblem, which was banned in 2022 by 3rd Special Forces Group leadership when it was brought to their attention. Leaders banned the logo because of its historical use, added Gordon, whose command oversees 3rd Group.

Its unclear how long the patch was in use with active duty Green Berets, nor is it clear how many teams adopted it or similar imagery in their local logos.

The command previously announced an investigation into the use of symbols and patches depicting historic images of hate, after the 20th Special Forces Groups official Instagram account posted a photo featuring a soldier with a patch depicting a Nazi SS Totenkopf.

The stylized skull-and-crossbones logo was the namesake of the Totenkopf 3rd SS Panzer Division. The Nazi high command originally assembled the formation in 1939 from concentration camp guards and SS Einsatzgruppen death squads that systematically murdered Jews in Poland. The division later went on to massacre British and French colonial prisoners of war.

A photo posted to the Instagram page of the 20th Special Forces Group shows a service member, right, with a helmet patch that appears to depict a Nazi SS Totenkopf. (Screenshot via Twitter)

In response to comments on the since-deleted Instagram post, the 20th Group page administrator said its a 3rd group team patch taken out of context.

However, an Army Special Operations Command spokesperson told Military.com that the soldier pictured is a member of the National Guards 20th Group, rather than 3rd Group.

Army Times could not confirm whether or when the soldier was a member of 3rd Group, nor whether he was aware of the patchs iconographic roots. The Alabama National Guard, home to 20th Groups headquarters, told Military Times that the state is assisting in the investigation.

On Wednesday morning, an Army Reddit user posted a photo reportedly of a Fort Liberty, North Carolina, training buildings door featuring a sticker with a similar Totenkopf logo. The logo read ODA 3321, indicating that the unofficial emblem belonged to a team of Green Berets in 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group, which is headquartered at Liberty.

The teams logo, which includes a similar SS Totenkopf to that seen in the National Guard unit photo, also incorporates the distinctive palm tree featured on the seal of the Deutches Afrikakorps. The Africa Corps fought against British and American troops in North Africa before it was cornered and destroyed in May 1943. The skull-and-crossbones, placed atop 3rd Groups distinctive beret flash, replaces the swastika in the teams design.

An unofficial logo of 3rd Special Forces Group's Operational Detachment-Alpha 3321 (left via Reddit), the seal of the Nazi German Afrikakorps (top right/Wikimedia Commons), and the coat of arms of the 3rd SS Panzer Division

Service members in the past have occasionally adopted Nazi imagery in their visual materials. In February, the Montana National Guard apologized for including marching Nazi soldiers in the background of recruiting posters. The Marine Corps top officer publicly apologized in 2012 after Marine scout snipers were photographed posing with a flag emblazoned with the Nazi SSs lightning bolt-style flash. A Marine Corps spokesperson at the time said that an ensuing investigation found that the SS was intended to signify Scout Snipers.

But Defense Department officials have maintained that such incidents are isolated, and that the troops involved in such scandals are largely unaware of the images ideological and historical context.

A Pentagon-commissioned research study released in late December found no evidence that the number of violent extremists in the military is disproportionate to the number of violent extremists in the United States.

Yet the militarys efforts to root out extremism, launched in the wake of the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, faced criticism from both the political left as a performative box-checking effort and from the political right as a purported witch hunt against conservative troops.
ROCKFORD, Ill. (CBS)  A man has been charged in connection with an attack in Rockford that left four people dead, including the suspect's childhood friend and a teenager, the county prosecutor said Thursday.

The Winnebago County Coroner's office identified the victims: 15-year-old Jenna Newcomb; 23-year-old Jacob Schupbach; 49-year-old Jay Larson, and 63-year-old Ramona Schupbach.

Seven others were injured during that rampage that started around 1:15 p.m. Wednesday. Police said some of the victims were stabbed, and three girls were beaten with a baseball bat while they were watching a movie on spring break.

TIMELINE: Fatal stabbings in Rockford, Illinois: What we know so far

Officials on Thursday confirmed Christian Ivan Soto, 22, was charged with four counts of first-degree murder, seven counts of attempted first-degree murder, and three counts of home invasion. He is being held in the Winnebago County Jail without bond.

Winnebago County State's Attorney J. Hanley said he expected additional charges once the case was presented to a grand jury. In an interview with detectives, Soto admitted to the killings and claimed he had smoked marijuana laced with an unknown drug that caused him to go on the rampage, Hanley said.

Hanley detailed Soto's violent 20-minute spree that started with fatally stabbing his childhood friend, Jacob, and that friend's mother, Ramona. Then he fatally stabbed and ran over a mail carrier, Larson, with his pickup.

"Soto says he became paranoid after the drug usage," said He said that he retrieved a knife from the kitchen from Jacob's house, and proceeded to stab Jacob and Ramona to death."

Jacob and Ramona Schupbach / Credit: Family Photos

He continued by breaking into multiple homes and attacking three teenage girls with a bat  killing one of them, Jenna Newcomb, 15. He was arrested while stabbing his last two victims, who were hospitalized with serious injuries.

"They were doing what we all do  what you should all be doing. It's spring break. You have three girls watching a movie?" said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. "I can't even comprehend that."

McNamara said Jenna "died saving her sister and friend, protecting them from further harm."

Calls for police and paramedics were soon coming in at multiple scenes in Rockford and surrounding parts of Winnebago County.

Emergency responders located new victims on their way to each residence.

Police finally arrested Soto as a young woman trying to get away was stabbed in the face and hands and seriously wounded, Hanley said. A Good Samaritan who tried to help her also was stabbed during the violent spree.

"It's just devastation for all of us," said Rockford resident Ruth Gallagher. "It's a blur. It's just a nightmare."

Gallagher said her longtime mailman, who authorities later identified as Larson, was among the dead.

A witness, Craig Garr, tried to distract Soto while Soto was allegedly attacking Larson right in front of Garr's very house.

"I said, 'What are you doing?' You know, I startled him, and he said, 'He stole money from me.' I just shook my head. I said, 'You've got to be kidding me,'" Garr said. "And he acted very delusional, like he's on drugs. Kind of glassy eyes and everything, you know, he's out of his mind."

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service said the letter carrier had been delivering mail in Rockford for 25 years.

"The mail carrier, he was the kindest person. He would help anybody; would step in and help, always friendly," said Gallagher. "We will miss him."

Police confirmed Thursday that no other offenders were involved in the attack.

"This cuts you at the root," Rockford police chief says of violent rampage

On Thursday, dozens gathered near the scene of the attack to mourn the four lives that were lost. The vigil included local faith leaders and politicians.

Among the speakers was Rockford Police Chief Carla Redd, who said her department is hurting.

"This cuts you at the root. I can't imagine what the families are going through," Redd said. "The officers that had to be the first ones on scene, and see the victims in those conditions  this is not easy."

Counseling services were available Thursday at Flinn Middle School. Police confirmed Thursday that extra counselors have been asked to assist with the services.

"That love and compassion that we see here today  let's carry this out into the rest of our days in Rockford, because we are better when we are together," said Mayor McNamara.

Late Thursday, President Joe Biden issued this statement about the Rockford attack:

"Jill and I were horrified to learn of the brutal attack carried out in Rockford last night, which took the lives of four people, including one fifteen-year-old. Seven others were tragically wounded as a result of this senseless violence. We are praying for the families of those who lost loved ones, and hoping that all those injured make a full recovery. We are also grateful for the heroic actions of local law enforcement, who confronted the suspect and prevented the loss of more innocent life. "Federal law enforcement have offered all available assistance to local law enforcement as they investigate this heinous act. In the meantime, my Administration will do everything in its power to help the people of Rockford and the broader community recover from this traumatic event.

"Families across America want the same thing: the freedom to feel safe in their community. That is my priority and the reason we've made major investments to provide communities with resources and law enforcement officers to prevent and fight crime. This tragic event is a reminder that we must continue to ensure that our police and first responders have the support they need to do their jobs and keep us safe."

Soto's next court date is next week.

If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 60 years in prison for each murder.

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BARTON, N.Y. (WETM)  A 4-year-old child is dead after an incident in Tioga County, NY, where police say their tricycle was hit by a vehicle Tuesday evening.

According to New York State Police, sometime after 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26, a motorist was driving on Old Barton Road in Barton when the 4-year-old child went into the road on their tricycle and was hit by the vehicle.

Tanker truck turns over in Bradford County

Police said that the child was riding the tricycle in their driveway before going into the road and being hit by the car. Police said that the motorist was unable to avoid the child, and the child died at the scene.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
The Soho-5000 comet identified Monday appears in the smaller white box in the upper left hand corner of the NASA image captured by the SOHO spacecraft. Photo courtesy of ESA/NASA/LASCO G2/UPI

March 27 (UPI) -- A citizen scientist in the Czech Republic on Monday identified a new comet while examining an image captured by the exploratory SOHO spacecraft, which raises to 5,000 the number of comets it has helped discover, NASA reported.

The unnamed comet is part of the Marsden group of comets that obit the sun about every 5.3 years, according to NASA. The comet group is named after Brian Marsden, who was the first scientist to discover the comet group using the European Space Agency's Solar and Heliospheric Observatory, commonly referred to as SOHO.

NASA said the Marsden group of comets likely is a subset of the larger 96P/Macholz comet.

SOHO is an international exploratory spacecraft tasked with examining the sun. It also has identified 5,000 comets over the past 28 years, which NASA says makes it the world's most prolific comet hunter.

The European Space Agency and NASA jointly launched SOHO in December 1995 on its mission to study the sun and its outer corona.

SOHO uses a scientific tool that blocks the Sun's immense light to enable scientists to study the sun's corona and its environment.

The spacecraft's special instruments enable SOHO to fly relatively close to the Sun, which makes it one of the few spacecraft capable of viewing comets that also fly very close to the sun. Without the special viewing instrument, the sun's bright glare would hide them from view.

Several comets only are visible when the sunlight makes them bright enough to see when using the types of instruments included on the SOHO spacecraft, according to NASA.

The comet identified Monday is the 75th belonging to the Marsden group that the SOHO spacecraft has identified.

The 5,000 comets identified using the SOHO spacecraft represents more than half of all known comets.

When the SOHO mission first launched 28 years ago, it began identifying comets at a rapid pace, which caused NASA to fund its Sungrazer Project, which enables anyone to identify and report comets revealed by SOHO images.

NASA refers to comets that fly very close to the sun as "sungrazers."

Hanjie Tan is the citizen scientist who identified the 5,000th comet and participates in the Sungrazer Project, NASA said.

Tan is from Guangzhou, China, but is working on a doctoral in astronomy in Prague. Tan has participated in the Sungrazer Project since he was 13 and is the project's youngest person to discover a comet.

Since joining the project in 2009, Tan has identified more than 200 comets.

"I love looking for comets," Tan told NASA, "It's really exciting to be the first to see comets get bright near the Sun after they've been traveling through space for thousands of years."

Before the Sungrazer Project got underway, NASA says only a couple dozen comets were known to fly near the sun. The project identified its 2,000th comet in 2010, which then was the record for most comets identified by a single instrument.
The six people missing after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore are presumed dead, the Coast Guard announced Tuesday evening, ending an 18-hour search-and-rescue effort.

Citing frigid water temperatures and sea conditions, Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said in a Tuesday evening press conference that the missing people are likely dead.

We do not believe that we are going to find any of these individuals still alive, he said.

The 1.6 mile bridge that held Interstate 695 collapsed at about 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday after the container ship MV Dali struck one of its main support columns. The entire main span and three adjacent spans fell into the Patapsco River.

It is believed that the six missing people, all road maintenance workers, were on the bridge fixing potholes at the time of the collapse. Two other people were rescued from the water, one uninjured and a second with severe injuries, Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace said.

The Coast Guard also suspended its search mission for the evening, pledging to begin the recovery phase Wednesday.

The collapse sends East Coast logistics into chaos, closing the busy Port of Baltimore and Interstate 695. Shippers were already scrambling Tuesday to move cargo to nearby ports in Virginia and elsewhere.

President Biden said the federal government will move heaven and earth to rebuild the bridge and keep port workers employed, though estimates on construction time have ranged from months to up to a year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Recovery efforts continue for the six people presumed dead in the Baltimore bridge collapse. Lara Trump talks about her goals as the Republican National Committees new co-chair. And seven American kids who were sent to a school for troubled teens are stuck in Jamaica.

Heres what to know today.

Last-minute mayday preceded Baltimore bridge collapse

When the Dali cargo ship lost power at around 1:24 a.m. early Tuesday, it became effectively rudderless and at the mercy of the currents. The Francis Scott Key Bridge would crumple into the harbor just four minutes later.

Video of the ship, emergency radio transmissions and analysis from maritime veterans paint a picture of a disastrous scenario. It is rare for ships of the Dalis size to lose power and even rarer still for it to happen in a narrow channel near the pillars of a major bridge.

Still, a last-minute mayday and quick actions on the ground most likely averted a much higher casualty count.

This is Morning Rundown, a weekday newsletter to start your morning. Sign up here to get it in your inbox.

In a narrow channel at night, with a bridge in front of you, I couldnt think of a worse situation to deal with, said Henry Lipian, a retired Coast Guard lieutenant and founder of an accident reconstruction firm. He suspects that fuel or an issue with the fuel system might have caused the ships power to go out.

Six construction workers who were filling potholes on the bridge are presumed dead. Yesterday evening, the U.S. Coast Guard transitioned its search to a recovery mission, saying the water temperature and amount of time that had passed since the collapse made it unlikely that those missing were still alive.

Investigators are now working to piece together what happened.

Read the full story here, and follow our live blog for the latest developments.

More coverage of the bridge collapse:

Newly minted Republican National Committee co-chair Lara Trump said that she believes the party is past litigating the 2020 election, comments that come as her father-in-law, former President Donald Trump, prepares to face two juries on charges alleging that he illegally tried to overturn the election results.

In an interview with NBC News, Lara Trump said that she instead wants to help the party to start encouraging early voting and mail-in voting, which Donald Trump has also repeatedly criticized. That contrast  between Lara Trump efforts to look ahead and Donald Trumps continued re-litigation of the last presidential election  illustrates a key dynamic in the Republican Party in 2024. Read more highlights from Lara Trumps interview.

More coverage of the 2024 election:

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. named his vice presidential pick: tech lawyer and entrepreneur Nicole Shanahan .

President Joe Bidens case for re-election is strengthening, but he still enters the general election in a weaker position than he did in 2020. Democrats have a few theories as to why.

How the lawsuit against Apple could affect digital payments

If the Justice Department gets its way, how you pay for everyday things from coffee to clothes could be affected. The nearly 90-page landmark lawsuit filed against Apple last week claims that the companys alleged monopoly over the smartphone market also extends to its handling of digital payments, especially as tap-to-pay options become more common. (Apple has denied thats the case.)

If prosecutors get everything they want, consumers could eventually have multiple options for wallet apps. The goal would be to have apps that work on both Apples iOS platform and rival ones like Android. Prosecutors also called out Apples practice of charging banks 15% for credit card transactions on Apple Pay, arguing that the fees impact lenders ability to invest in improving the mobile banking experience.

Business and economy reporter J.J. McCorvey explains the changing digital payment landscape and Apples effect on the technology.

A test to protect against fatal chemo overdoses is rarely used

A common type of chemotherapy called fluorouracil, also known as 5-FU, is no picnic for anyone who uses it  but for some patients who are deficient in an enzyme that metabolizes the drugs, they can be torturous or deadly. Thats what happened to Carol Rosen, a 70-year-old retired schoolteacher whose final weeks were wracked with excruciating pain. The drug that was meant to prolong her life had caused her death. Your body burns from the inside out, Rosens daughter, Lindsay Murray, said.

Hundreds of people are killed annually by 5-FU or a nearly identical drug in pill form called capecitabine. A test for the enzyme deficiency that could potentially save lives exists, but because its not required by the FDA nor recommended by the most widely followed U.S. cancer treatment guidelines, its seldom used. Heartbroken family members are advocating for change.

7 American kids from school for troubled teens held in Jamaica

Seven American boys are being held in the custody of Jamaican child welfare authorities, more than six weeks after they were pulled from a school for troubled teens because of sexual abuse allegations. The boys were attending Atlantis Leadership Academy in Treasure Beach, which advertises itself as a faith-based school serving teens who are struggling with substance abuse, anxiety disorders and defiant behavior.

When Jamaican authorities received information that children at the program were being mistreated, the students were removed. Theyre currently being held in Jamaican group homes.

Tarah Fleischman  who sent her son, Cody, to the school last year  said shes frustrated with the system and by the long wait to bring Cody home to Wisconsin. Unfortunately, I was a desperate mother who got preyed upon, she said. Read the full story here.

Politics in Brief

Alabama politics: Democratic candidate Marilyn Lands won a special election for a state House seat in Alabama. Her campaigns emphasis on in vitro fertilization and abortion rights was seen as an early test for IVF as a campaign issue.

Trump trials: Donald Trump was slapped with a partial gag order in the New York hush money case that bars him from talking about witnesses and court staffers in the case.

Abortion rights: The Supreme Court appeared likely to reject a challenge to the abortion pill mifepristone, with a number of justices questioning whether the plaintiffs  seven named doctors and associated anti-abortion groups  had legal standing to bring the lawsuit. The rejection of the case could hinge on how the justices assess conscience objections. Heres what that means.

Israel-Hamas war: U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, a day after the U.S. abstained in a U.N. Security Council vote calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza. At the top of the agenda was Israels plans to launch an offensive in Rafah.

Want more politics news? Sign up for From the Politics Desk to get exclusive reporting and analysis delivered to your inbox every weekday evening. Subscribe here.

Staff Pick: An unusual emotional distress lawsuit

After her son told her he had been sexually abused by his babysitter, a New York mom set about warning other parents, including through unsolicited Facebook messages. Those alerts have gotten her sued by the sitter, who denies the abuse. Reporter Janelle Griffith delved deep into this unusual court case  the suit is for emotional distress, not defamation  that will go to trial in New York next month.

Because of this ridiculous lawsuit, hes being forced to confront some painful memories. It is so unfair, the mom said.  Jaquetta White, news editor

Select: Online Shopping, Simplified

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This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
A Peruvian woman was eating pork rinds when she suddenly felt an object stuck in her throat. After vomiting blood, she went to the emergency room thinking she had swallowed a bone  but it was something far more dangerous.

Celia Tello, 68, had to undergo surgery to remove the object, which doctors told Reuters turned out to be a nail that was piercing one of her carotid arteries, blood vessels that the Cleveland Clinic says are "a vital part of your circulatory system." There is a carotid artery on each side of your neck, each splitting into two branches to help supply blood to your head and neck.

"It never crossed my mind I had this nail or piece of wire," Tello told Reuters in Spanish.

An x-ray image shows the nail accidentally swallowed by a 68-year-old woman who was eating pork rinds in February. / Credit: EsSalud via Reuters

Surgeon Diego Cuipal told Reuters that doctors had to conduct a "careful dissection" to remove the nail and that there was a risk of "detaching a clot that could reach the brain." X-ray images showed the long nail lodged in her throat.

"We were able to isolate the affected artery and we repaired it by sectioning it and we joined a healthy artery with another healthy artery," Cuipal said in Spanish.

The incident occurred last month, and Tello has since healed. Now, all that remains is a large scar on her neck from the procedure.

This is not the first time random and dangerous objects have turned up in someone's food. Last year, stainless steel was found in peanut butter and bone fragments were found in smoked sausage, leading to massive food recalls. The FDA has cautioned that some food contamination is expected, saying that it's "economically impractical" to avoid some "non-hazardous, naturally occurring, unavoidable defects."

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Paramedic workers search for victims in the rubble of a paramedic center that was destroyed by an Israeli airstrike early Wednesday in Hebbariye village, south Lebanon, Wednesday, March 27, 2024. The Israeli airstrike on a paramedic center linked to a Lebanese Sunni Muslim group killed several people of its members. The strike was one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the Lebanon-Israel border more than five months ago. (AP Photo/Mohammed Zaatari)

HEBBARIYE, Lebanon (AP)  A series of Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed 16 people and a barrage of rockets fired by the militant group Hezbollah killed one Israeli man, making Wednesday the deadliest day in more than five months of fighting along the border.

Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, concerns have grown about further escalation along the Israel-Lebanon frontier. Tens of thousands of people on both sides have been displaced by the violence.

Wednesday's Israeli strikes targeted a Lebanese Sunni political and militant organization, the Islamic Group, which has joined the Shiite militant group Hezbollah in its fight against Israel. Two Hezbollah fighters were also killed, as was a local commander with the Amal Movement, another Shiite group.

The first Israeli airstrike hit a paramedic center affiliated with the Islamic Group, killing seven of its members in the village of Hebbariye after midnight.

Muheddine Qarhani, head of the Emergency and Relief Corps, told reporters at the scene that the paramedic center had been set up late last year. He said he was surprised a medical group had been targeted.

Israel said it killed an Islamic Group member involved in attacks against Israel, as well as several other militants.

Maj. Gen. Ori Gordin, the head of the Israeli armys Northern Command, said Israel was operating against the Islamic Group and had struck a large number of operatives and was also conducting very significant strikes against Hezbollah.

We are at war. We have been at war for almost half a year now, and it doesnt end with Hezbollah, he told a gathering of commanders.

Hours after the airstrike, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for firing rockets into the northern Israeli city of Kiryat Shmona and a military base. Hezbollah said it was retaliating for the deadly attack on the paramedic center.

Rescue services in Israel said a 25-year-old man was killed when a direct hit sparked a fire in an industrial park in Kiryat Shmona. Footage from the scene showed thick black smoke pouring out of a building.

Another person was lightly injured. Around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel, according to the Israeli military.

Nada Khleif was in her small bakery in Hebbariyeh when the strike heavily damaged her business and a nearby apartment, where two of her relatives were unharmed.

The bakery was my only means of living. It is gone now, she said.

The Lebanese news agency said Israel bombed the village of Teir Harfa after sunset, killing five, and a second strike killed four people as paramedics gathered near a cafe in the coastal town of Naqoura.

Hezbollahs Islamic Health Society said two of its paramedics were killed in Teir Harfa.

The Islamic Risala Scout Association, also a paramedic group, said one of its members was killed in the strike on Naqoura.

The Amal movement of Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri said the strike on Naquora killed one of its local commanders, identified as Ali Mahdi. Hezbollah said two of its fighters were killed without saying where they were struck.

The near-daily violence has mostly been confined to the area along the border, and international mediators are scrambling to prevent an all-out war. The fighting has killed nine civilians and 11 soldiers in Israel. Nearly 240 Hezbollah fighters and about 40 civilians have died in Lebanon.

Hezbollah began launching rockets toward Israel on Oct. 8, the day after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel in a surprise attack that sparked the crushing war in Gaza.

____

Lidman contributed from Tel Aviv, Israel. Associated Press writer Bassem Mroue in Beirut contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
After more than two years of planning and fundraising, the city of Rock Island is planning to launch its $8.5-million Rebuild Downtown project on Monday, April 8.

According to Public Works director Mike Bartels, the hope is to finish the multi-layered reconstruction and streetscaping work by the end of this year.

A new roundabout in downtown Rock Island, at 18th Street and 2nd Avenue, is among the many project elements.

At its meeting Monday, March 25, the City Council awarded the contract to Valley Construction, Inc. of Rock Island, in the original bid amount of $8,467,987.41 and authorized the City Manager to execute the contract documents and Public Works to continue to value engineer the project and execute necessary change orders to reduce construction costs to $8,223,523.89 or lower.

Its great to reach consensus around the improvements our community is excited about making downtown, Rock Island Downtown Alliance executive director Jack Cullen said Wednesday.

Improvements downtown (including this reconstructed 2nd Avenue, removing the pedestrian plaza) are expected to start April 8, 2024.

This is the largest investment in downtowns public infrastructure in a generation, and its not the end of the story. This is just the start  where the improvements need to start in the core of downtown and where we hope to continue block by block.

Cullen noted the main goals for the downtown project since day one are:

Enhance public spaces

Encourage private investment

Improve quality of life for downtown workers, business owners, residents and visitors

An invitation to bid was advertised on Jan. 25-26 and the following contractors submitted bids: McCarthy Improvements, Langman Construction, and Valley Construction. Bidders submitted on a base bid and six alternates as follows:

 Base bid: removal of the Great River Plaza, reconstructing 2nd Avenue between 18th and 19th streets as a festival street; reconstructing 18th St., 1st to 3rd avenues; reconstructing 3rd Ave. from 18th to 19th streets; replacing water mains, sanitary sewers and storm sewers under 18th St., 2nd Ave. and 3rd Ave.; ADA compliant sidewalks; pedestrian lighting: street landscaping and entryway arch.

 Alternative 1: reconstruction and reimaging of Arts Alley, at 1719 2nd Ave.

 Alternative 2: reconstructing 3rd Ave. between 17th and 18 streets; replacing water mains, sanitary sewers and storm sewers; sidewalks; pedestrian lighting and street landscaping,

 Alternative 3: Installing the dog park at 3rd Avenue and 21st St.

 Alternative 4: Reconstruction of the alley, between 3rd/4th Ave. and 20th/21st St.

 Alternative 5: Remove parking lot at 18th St. and 2nd Ave. and replace with green space.

 Alternative 6: Placing lights on the WHBF Tower.

A planned lighting of the WHBF Tower was estimated to cost $6.9 million alone.

Based upon the base bid costs, Valley Construction was the low bidder with a base bid amount of $7,563,699.31, which exceeds the projects original secured funding of $7,267,181.

A summary of Valleys bid amounts follows:

 Base Bid  $7,563,699.31

 Alternative 1  $657,887.35

 Alternative 2  $1,318,303.55

 Alternative 3  $674,574.30

 Alternative 4  $129,314.25

 Alternative 5  $246,400.75

 Alternative 6  $6,909,535.00

 Total (Base + Alternatives): $17,499,714.51

Preliminary value engineering was initiated between staff, the Rock Island Downtown Alliance (RIDA) and Valley to reduce costs towards the secured funding amount. The Downtown Alliance expressed their desire to accept Alternatives 1 (Arts Alley) and 5 (green space at 18th Ave. and 2nd St.) and discard Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 6.

Lighting of the WHBF Tower will not be part of the downtown project (photo by Jonathan Turner).

Valleys bid costs for this scope of work is $8,467,987.41. To lower costs, the following are planned to be eliminated from the project: temporary planters, pop-up stage, dumpster enclosure, in-street lights, vendor stall, postcard wall, green screen and lawn play structures.

The planned Arts Alley murals will not be part of the current project, but may happen later. Preliminary value engineering discussions have resulted in a reduction of project costs (construction and engineering) to $8,223,523.89.

Planned murals for the reimagined Arts Alley will not be part of the current project.

The revenue sources for the project funding are:

 TIF #1 Downtown funds  $1,556,342.89

 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)  $3,900,000

 Rebuild Downtown Grant  $3,000,000

 Illinois Tourism Grant  $267,181.00

Funding totals  $8,723,523.89

After more than six months in operation, the new Downtown Alliance Ambassadors have been circulating through the downtown Special Service Area weekdays and occasional weekends, performing hospitality and cleaning services under the direction of operations manager DeAndre Robinson.

A current parking lot at 2nd Avenue and 18th Street will be converted into green space.

From greeting visitors and giving directions to collecting litter and removing graffiti, ambassadors are the organizations eyes, ears and boots on the ground, according to the RIDA website. The Downtown Alliance uses a GPS-integrated mobile software application to track its activities.

In the first six months using the system (Sept. 7, 2023-Feb. 29, 2024), the team made more than 2,300 logs. For more information on RIDA, visit its website HERE.

To learn more about the Rebuild Downtown project, including lots of visuals, see the City Councils presentation HERE.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  An American Airlines plane traveling from Charlotte to Virginia had to turn back to the Queen City Wednesday due to a possible mechanical issue.

According to American Airlines, AA Flight 5803 took off from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) just before 2 p.m. on its way to Charlottesville-Albemarle (CHO).

FlightAware reports once in Virginia, the E145 plane turned back around to land back at CLT airport. The total time of the flight was roughly two hours.

Photo: FlightAware

American Airlines stated the flight returned to Charlotte due to a possible mechanical issue and would not elaborate further. The plane landed safely Wednesday without incident, they said.

AA Boeing flight from Austin to Charlotte diverts to Alabama over maintenance issue

The plane in question will be taken out of service and inspected.

Passengers on Flight 5803 will be transferred to another plane to take them to CHO, AA said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) signed an executive order Wednesday to combat antisemitism at universities in the state amid a surge in the problem across the nation and the world.

The order requires colleges to add a definition of antisemitism to their free speech policies and ensure those policies lay out clear punishments for antisemitic speech.

Antisemitism is never acceptable in Texas, and we will do everything we can to fight it, Abbott said. The State of Texas stands with Israel and the Jewish community, and we must escalate our efforts to protect against antisemitism at Texas colleges and universities and across our state.

Schools have been under intense pressure since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, which preceded a massive spike in antisemitism.

The issue has put top schools under congressional investigation, including Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Columbia University.

Across the country, acts of antisemitism have grown in number, size, and danger to the Jewish community since Hamas deadly attack on October 7th. Texas took immediate action to protect Jewish schools, synagogues, and other key locations, Abbott said.

Many Texas colleges and universities also acted quickly to condemn antisemitism, but some radical organizations on our campuses engaged in acts that have no place in Texas. Now, we must work to ensure that our college campuses are safe spaces for members of the Jewish community, he added.

Officials from Columbia will be testifying at a House hearing in April on the state of antisemitism at its campus.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  Abilene police are now searching for a suspect behind two early morning convenience store robberies.

Both incidents happened at stores along S Clack Street between the hours of 2:30 a.m. and 3:45 a.m. Wednesday.

The first incident occurred at a DK at the corner of S Clack Street and S 7th Street just after 2:30 a.m. Police say an armed suspect wearing a mask and dark clothing brandished his weapon at a clerk then stole and undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene.

Around an hour later, at just after 3:30 a.m., a second aggravated robbery was reported at an Allsups just down the road on the 5100 block of S Clack Street.

A report from that incident claims an employee at a south Abilene convenience store reported a suspect, who matched the same description as the suspect in the first robbery, came inside and threatened them with a firearm while demanding money. The report also states the suspect became frustrated when the employee refused to open the register and told them no, prompting the suspect to flee.

Police are asking anyone who may have information on this suspects possible whereabouts or identity to call Abilene Crime Stoppers at (325)676-8477. All tips are guaranteed anonymous.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
An Alabama Democrat who campaigned aggressively on abortion access won a special election in the state Legislature on Tuesday, sending a message that abortion remains a winning issue for Democrats, even in the deep South.

Marilyn Lands won a state House seat in a rare competitive race to represent a district that includes parts of Huntsville. Lands, a mental health professional, centered her bid on reproductive rights and criticized the states near-total abortion ban along with a recent state Supreme Court ruling that temporarily banned in vitro fertilization.

Today, Alabama women and families sent a clear message that will be heard in Montgomery and across the nation," Lands said in a statement. "Our legislature must repeal Alabamas no-exceptions abortion ban, fully restore access to IVF, and protect the right to contraception."

Her opponent, Madison City Council member Teddy Powell, focused his campaign on economic development and infrastructure.

Lands spoke openly about her own abortion experience, when she had a nonviable pregnancy that ended in abortion two decades ago. Her campaign ran a television ad sharing that story.

Its shameful that today women have fewer freedoms than I had two decades ago, Lands says in the ad.

Lands victory is a promising sign for Democrats who are working to chip away at the GOPs dominance of state legislatures in the South. Alabama Democrats for years have pleaded with national groups to invest more resources into a slumping state party infrastructure that is far outspent by Republicans.

Party leaders are hoping that Lands successful bid proves that the right message  and financial support from deep-pocketed groups  makes the difference. She earned the endorsement of national organizations Planned Parenthood and the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, an arm of the Democratic National Committee.

This election today provides an opportunity for folks at the national level to pay close attention to the South and not just write us off, said state Rep. Anthony Daniels, minority leader of the House Democratic Caucus, prior to the election.

District 10 makes up parts of Huntsville and Madison, a highly affluent and educated area in Northern Alabama. In 2020, former President Donald Trump narrowly carried the district and former Democratic Sen. Doug Jones, who is backing Lands, won it by around five points.



Lands ran for the seat in 2022 and lost by 7 points to Republican David Cole, who resigned last year after pleading guilty to voter fraud.

Yet her election hardly tips the scales in Montgomery: Republicans hold a supermajority in both chambers of the Legislature and use that power to pursue a conservative agenda backed by Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and other GOP state officials.

When the state Supreme Court ruled last month that embryos are children under state law and suspended the practice of IVF, it set off a political firestorm that some Republicans fear could threaten their standing in the November elections. Republican leadership in the state legislature raced to pass a law granting immunity to IVF providers and patients in the days following the decision.

But Lands' victory signals abortion can turn out voters even in a deep-red state.

Once in office, Lands said she wants to work to repeal the states abortion law, which is one of the strictest in the country. Alabama outlaws abortion at any stage of pregnancy, with no exceptions for rape or incest. The procedure is permitted in cases where the health of the pregnant person is in jeopardy.

This special election is a harbinger of things to come  Republicans across the country have been put on notice that there are consequences to attacks on IVF  from the bluest blue state to the reddest red, voters are choosing to fight for their fundamental freedoms by electing Democrats across the country, said DLCC President Heather Williams in a statement.
When a container ship slammed into Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, it led to the disastrous collapse that left six people presumed dead and took out one of the regions key infrastructure links.

But it wasnt the first time that kind of impact had happened: Four decades earlier, another container ship that also lost power hit the same bridge  and it stood strong.

The drastic difference in outcomes between the two accidents is an example of the dangers caused by the massive increase in shipping vessel size in the intervening decades. Its also raising questions about whether changes in the bridges design could have prevented the deadly collapse.

A CNN review of public records and interviews with about a dozen bridge and shipping experts show that hundreds of bridges over US waterways were built decades ago when container ships were a fraction of the size and weight they are today. Bridges of the era when the Key Bridge was built werent designed to protect against collisions with ships as big as the Dali, the vessel that caused the Baltimore catastrophe.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of the container ship Dali after the bridge collapsed on Tuesday. - Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images

Some experts said that this weeks disaster should inspire engineers to reevaluate whether Americas aging infrastructure can withstand impacts from the gigantic ships that transit our waterways today.

Its absolutely a wake-up call, said Rick Geddes, a professor and director of Cornell Universitys Program in Infrastructure Policy. The people who were building the Francis Scott Key Bridge never really contemplated ships of this size. It wasnt their fault  they just didnt have a crystal ball.

Ships are getting bigger, heavier

The previous Key bridge accident had eerie similarities to what happened on Tuesday. In August 1980, a Japanese container ship crossing the Baltimore harbor lost propulsion about 600 yards from the Key Bridge after its electrical control board shorted out in the early morning hours. The ship then crashed into the bridge, colliding with one of its piers, according to a National Research Council report on ship-bridge collisions.

The collision ripped out a 30-foot section of a protective structure around the bridges concrete piling, according to a 1981 article published in The Evening Sun newspaper that cited a Coast Guard report on the incident. But the piling itself was only chipped, not significantly damaged. The accident caused $500,000 in damage to the bridge and required $350,000 in ship repairs, the Sun reported.

Experts said its highly unlikely the damage from the 1980 incident was related to its collapse. Inspections in recent years had found the bridge to be in fair condition, according to federal data, and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said Tuesday it was fully up to code.

One major difference between the two accidents was the size of the ship. Data from the maritime tracking website MarineTraffic suggests the ship that crashed into the bridge in 1980, then known as Blue Nagoya, was about a third of the length and a fraction of the weight of the Dali.

Thats not surprising given the explosion in the size of container ships in recent decades. Container ships in the 1970s  when the Key Bridge was built  could only typically carry about 2,500 twenty-foot equivalent units of cargo, according to research by Jean-Paul Rodrigue, a maritime business administration professor at Texas A&M University-Galveston.

But in the wake of a major project to expand the Panama Canal that was completed in 2016, ports on the east coast of the United States can handle ships with six times as much cargo as that. The Dali has a capacity of about 10,000 twenty-foot equivalent units  so even larger ships serve the Baltimore port.

In addition to the difference in size, the Blue Nagoya was moving at a speed of six knots, according to the National Research Council report, while the Dali was moving at eight knots, Marylands governor said. A larger ship moving faster would have created far more force on the bridge, experts said.

Outdated bridge protections no match for massive modern vessels

Experts said the 1980 incident also raised questions about whether the Key Bridge should have added additional protective structures around its structural piers.

The National Research Council report on ship-bridge collisions compiled in 1983 noted that at the time, the bridge had concrete protection devices that were fendered with timber  meaning that timber structures were installed around the pier to protect it. The report also said it had a crushable protective structure to limit the force applied to its pier in the event of a collision, which proved effective in absorbing a direct collision when the Japanese ship struck it.

Its unclear whether the protective structure was rebuilt after that incident, or if the Key Bridge had any kind of fenders before yesterdays collapse. Several experts said there are no obvious fenders visible in photos of the bridge, and the Maryland Transportation Authority did not immediately respond to a question about the bridges design.

The bridge is surrounded by several dolphins  concrete structures that are intended to slow or deflect oncoming vessels  which may be the protective structures the report referred to. The Dali appears to have hit the bridge at an angle that narrowly avoided a dolphin.

An outbound cargo ship passes under the Francis Scott Key Bridge, March 9, 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. - Mark Wilson/Getty Images

Because the dolphins are relatively small and leave various angles unprotected, what was put in place appears to be definitely not the most optimal way to do it, said Hussam Mahmoud, a Colorado State University engineering professor. After the 1980 collision, he argued, more substantial dolphins or a fendering system should have been added to the Key Bridge.

The Key Bridges dolphins were once seen as the latest innovations in bridge design: After the Sunshine Skyway Bridge over Tampa Bay collapsed in 1980, killing 35 people, some observers noted the then-new Key bridges use of dolphins. Florida officials had considered duplicating them for the Sunshine Skyway but decided against it, according to an article in the Tampa Tribune that year.

Rod Sullivan, a longtime maritime attorney in Florida, said the Tampa disaster led to changes in bridge construction techniques, including the addition of fenders in many new bridges built after 1980.

You dont ever want a ship to actually touch the support of the bridge, he said. You knock out one of the support posts, the entire bridge collapses.

The Key Bridge is hardly unique among large bridges in its age. Nationally, there are at least 300 bridges in the US that are over waterways and have a vertical clearance of more than 100 feet (though large ships dont necessarily pass under all of them). Two-thirds of them were built before 1980, according to a CNN analysis of data from the Federal Highway Administrations National Bridge Inventory, and a third are listed as having been reconstructed since then.

Some other bridges that cross major shipping routes are designed with more extensive protections than the Key Bridges. The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge at the entrance to the New York Harbor and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in Charleston, South Carolina, for example, both have large rock islands surrounding their piers that are designed to stop approaching ships.

Others, such as Savannahs Talmadge Memorial Bridge and Los Angeles Vincent Thomas Bridge, are designed without support pillars in the middle of the waterways they cross  although the Key Bridge covers a much longer distance.

In the wake of the Key Bridge collapse and with the rise of larger container ships, some experts said that engineers should reassess necessary bridge safety features. That could include installing larger fenders like the bumper of your car that could fend off a big ship like this, Geddes said.

Theres a lot of economic benefits to the increase in container ship size, he said, but the infrastructure is updated more slowly.

Some other experts doubted whether any feasible protective structure could have saved the bridge from a head-on strike from a ship as big as the Dali. No bridge, unless a fortress is built around it, could survive such an impact, said Barzin Mobasher, an Arizona State University structural engineering professor.

Still, Mobasher said, the fact that the Key Bridge was hit twice by shipping vessels in 40 years shows that engineers should reevaluate their safety models to take necessary precautions. After all, he said, it could happen again.

CNNs Daniel Medina, Majlie de Puy Kamp, and Yahya Abou-Ghazala contributed to this report.

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Antwan Glover, 37, Polk County, claiming excessive force was used on him during a traffic stop for not wearing a seatbelt. Some 50 people gathered at the City of Palmetto Police Department for a protest and a two-mile march Saturday afternoon in Palmetto. The family and friends are calling for transparency and justice after the death of Breonte Johnson-Davis, who suffered cardiac arrest after he was tasered by Palmetto Police in November 2023.

An internal Bradenton Police Department investigation continues at the agency amid scrutiny of the neighboring Palmetto Police Department's handling of a tasing-related death case. The active BPD administrative investigation is confidential and exempt from public records under Florida Statute. BDP officials have yet to explain what the probe could entail beyond its administrative label.

According to records and Bradenton PD officials, the probe was opened two weeks after the November 2023 Palmetto PD tasing of Bronte Johnson-Davis, a 36-year-old Palmetto man who died in Palmetto Police custody.

"The internal investigation was opened on November 14," a BPD representative told the Herald-Tribune in an email Monday. BPD's public information officer reiterated that no further information was available as the investigation is currently active.

The department has been tight-lipped about its entanglement in the November Palmetto PD tasing incident investigation, offering only a mostly redacted report from Officer Julian Jackson. The emailed report details Jackson's perspective on the night he subdued Johnson-Davis alongside the Palmetto Police.

BPD officer Jackson was off duty while traveling down 8th Avenue W. in his marked Bradenton police vehicle when he encountered Palmetto officer Caleb Cottom attempting to apprehend Johnson. Now released body cam footage from Palmetto PD shows the interaction between Jackson, Cottom, and Johnson the night Johanson died in police custody.

The FDLE's months-long investigation concluded in late February, absolving all officers of criminal wrongs; however, criminal justice experts, community members, and now, local dignitaries are calling both law enforcement agencies' accountability measures into question.

Palmetto City Commissioners began hearing grumbles from community members after the Johnson family went public with demands for information in January. This prompted Commissioner Harold Smith to inquire about the incident during at least two previous commission meetings this year.

Smith, community members, and Johnson's mother, Tracey Washington, have been vocal about pushing Palmetto mayor Shirley Bryant to hold PPD accountable.

"The mayor should be informing us (commissioners) and she should be doing her job of holding the police accountable," Smith said. "Chief also has to come out and let us know what is going on and let the community know what is going on.

Smith, who covers Ward 1 within the city of Palmetto, said despite asking for information himself from Mayor Bryant and Chief Scott Tyler, he doesn't feel informed about what has transpired in the case. He added that he supports the police in its duties but feels any mistakes or errors in judgment should be better navigated.

"We have to have police, or we have no law, but I don't like the way this has been and is being handled," Smith said.

Palmetto Mayor Shirley Bryant did not immediately respond to the Herald-Tribune for requests for comment.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Investigation opened in November behind off duty officer's involvement
BALTIMORE  Divers braved the frigid waters of the Patapsco River on Wednesday to collect evidence, search for six missing construction workers and find out how to clear the channel of the collapsed remains of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and the cargo ship that crashed into it at about 1:27 a.m. Tuesday.

The bow of the massive Sri Lanka-bound ship, the Dali, was at the bottom of the Patapsco on Wednesday afternoon, weighed down by a piece of the bridge that had carried thousands of commuters across the harbor each day until its demise early Tuesday. The 984-foot ship has over 1.5 million gallons of fuel oil and lube oil on board, as well as about 4,700 cargo containers, Coast Guard Vice Admiral Peter Gautier said at a news conference Wednesday afternoon at the White House.

The ship is stable, and none of the roughly 50 cargo boxes containing hazardous materials that its carrying has gone overboard, Gautier said, noting there was no threat to public safety. The Coast Guard and the Army Corps of Engineers are trying to assess how to clear the channel to minimize the economic impact of the ongoing halt to operations at the Port of Baltimore, following President Joe Bidens directive to get the port up and running as soon as possible, Gautier said.

Given the magnitude and importance of this response, its going to be very, very aggressive, he said.

Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board and Coast Guard crews have boarded the ship, while divers plunge into the water and units conduct underwater surveys using remote operating vehicles, Gautier said.

The evening before, authorities called off a search-and-rescue operation for the six men presumed to be dead after they collapsed with the bridge into the water early Tuesday. Officials said Tuesday evening that they were transitioning to a recovery operation due to the frigid waters and because they did not believe the construction crew members would be found alive. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore vowed that officials would help the mens families find closure by putting resources toward finding the victims bodies.

Two others were rescued Tuesday morning, one of whom was treated and released from the hospital, according to officials. The six victims unaccounted for are construction workers who were filling potholes on the bridge when the container ship struck a support column, causing the expanse to collapse.

In addition to those searching for the workers, crews from the transportation safety board and the FBI were also in the water to collect evidence. The boards chair, Jennifer Homendy, said Wednesday morning that investigators had boarded the Dali overnight and would board again Wednesday to get electronic logs and components  perishable evidence that will go away as the collapse is cleaned up.

The focus is what do we need for our investigation  whether its from the vessel or from the highway, from the bridge structure  identifying those, securing those before we do any sort of analysis, she said. A spokesperson for the board said later Wednesday that investigators had recovered data from the black box, known as a Voyage Data Recorder.

Investigators were also developing a list of witnesses they sought to interview, including the cargo ships 22-member crew, which is still on board, according to a spokesperson for Synergy Marine Group, the Dalis management company.

In addition to the crew members, a local pilot and an apprentice were on board, according to Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association. Local pilots, mariners who are highly trained in navigating local waters, assist ship crews in getting through testy harbors. The job, which Diamond described as the pinnacle of a mariner career, requires extensive, arduous training.

A pilot was at the helm of the Dali when it appeared to lose power early Tuesday morning, causing the ships steering and propulsion systems to fail, Diamond said. The pilot did everything he could by contacting authorities and steering the ships rudder to the left once its backup generators kicked in, though the ships engines were still inoperable, he said. The ship also dropped anchor. Those maneuvers gave authorities the extra time to shut down bridge traffic, he said.

Speaking with reporters Wednesday morning, Moore said that he cannot stress enough the heroism of the rescue and recovery teams who have braved the Patapscos frigid waters since Tuesday. He said the divers are in dark waters where they can only see a foot in front of them, navigating mangled metal in a place where people are believed to have died.

Moore said Tuesday that he had met with the families of the missing workers and promised to use every possible asset at our disposal to make sure they find a sense of closure.

One employee of the highway construction company, who was not involved in the incident, Jesus Campos, said his missing co-workers were of Hispanic descent and were replacing concrete on the bridge at the time of the collision. The workers are all employees of the Hunt Valley firm Brawner Builders, according to Jeffrey Pritzker, its executive vice president.

The General Consulate of Guatemala in Maryland said in a Facebook post Tuesday that two of the missing workers were from that country.

One of the workers was identified by family members as Miguel Luna, a Salvadoran father of three who has lived in Maryland for 19 years. He and his five missing co-workers were the subject of Masses and vigils across the city Tuesday.

We are CASA, an immigration advocacy organization, identified a second victim Wednesday as Maynor Suazo Sandoval. He migrated from Honduras over 17 years ago and was an active member of CASA in Owings Mills.

A former Brawner Builders employee, Bobby Knutson Jr., identified a third victim as Alex Hernandez, a Mexican native and foreman of the construction crew.

At a vigil at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Baltimore City and County officials appeared alongside faith leaders, thanking first responders for their efforts and promising to support the impacted families.

We can only imagine what is going through [the families] minds and through their hearts and through their bodies, said Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott. We have to lift them up, not just today, not just tomorrow but for the foreseeable future.

Catholic Archbishop William Lori, alongside other bishops, held a Mass in honor of the men on Tuesday. Father Ako Walker, a priest at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Highlandtown, offered prayers in Spanish for the families at a Dundalk vigil.

_______

(Baltimore Sun reporters Cassidy Jensen, Darcy Costello, Hayes Gardner and Christine Condon contributed to this article.)
A U.S. appeals court in Atlanta will hear from attorneys for the three men found guilty in the murder of Ahmaud Arbery.

The shooting in a Glynn County neighborhood made national headlines in 2020. The panel will decide if federal hate crimes convictions will stand.

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After the hearing inside by three judges on the 11th circuit, members of the Arbery family, along with the Georgia NAACP and Transformative Justice Coalition will hold a protest rally.

Wednesdays hearing deals with the federal hate crimes trial and not the state murder charges, but Arberys supporters say the jury got it right and the conviction must be upheld.

Channel 2s Steve Gehlbach is LIVE at the U.S. Court of Appeals in downtown Atlanta where Arbery supporters will rally, on Channel 2 Action News This Morning.

Three white men are spending the rest of their lives in prison after trials and sentencing in the murder of a Black man, Ahmad Arbery.

Shooter Travis McMichael, father Greg McMichael and neighbor Roddy Bryan also were later convicted of federal hate crimes.

On Wednesday, lawyers for the trio will argue to the U.S. Court of Appeals that previous comments, social media posts and texts presented at trial did not prove racist intent needed for a hate crime.

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Arbery was shot and killed as he ran through a Glynn County neighborhood in Feb. 2020. Bryan recorded cellphone video of the shooting.

The men claimed they went after Arbery because they thought he was stealing.

Family members, activists and partners plan a protest rally outside the court, releasing a statement that says in part.

Although they have a legal right to appeal their federal convictions, they must not escape accountability for the racist and evil contempt that they held in their hearts that precipitated the killing of Ahmaud Arbery.

Even if the appeals court overturns their federal convictions, the McMichaels and Bryan would stay in prison. All are serving life sentences for the state murder convictions, but they have motions pending for new trials.

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FILE - This combination of photos shows, from left, Travis McMichael, William "Roddie" Bryan and Gregory McMichael during their trial at the Glynn County Courthouse in Brunswick, Ga. The three white men are asking a U.S. appeals court to throw out their hate crime convictions in the 2020 killing of Ahmaud Arbery. The 25-year-old Black man was chased by men driving pickup trucks and fatally shot in the streets of a coastal Georgia subdivision. Oral arguments are scheduled for Wednesday, March 27, 2024 before the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Pool, File)

ATLANTA (AP)  Attorneys for three white men who chased and killed Ahmaud Arbery in a Georgia subdivision asked a federal appeals court Wednesday to throw out their hate crime convictions, arguing that prosecutors relied on their history of racist comments without proving they targeted Arbery because he was Black.

At the end of the day, this issue isn't about the racism of these defendants, A.J. Balbo, representing Greg McMichael, told a three-judge panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta. Its about whether or not the government met its burden.

Their arguments also strayed beyond the core issue of whether a racist intent to harm motivated the Feb. 23, 2020, pursuit that ended with Arbery shot dead in the street. Defense attorneys raised legal technicalities, including their contention that prosecutors failed to prove Arbery was killed on a public road.

Federal prosecutors countered that the trial jury in 2022 heard sufficient evidence to find the trio guilty of hate crimes as well as attempted kidnapping. Racist views evidenced by the men's prior text messages and social media posts, they said, informed their mistaken assumption that Arbery was a fleeing criminal.

The hate-fueled violence the defendants inflicted on Ahmaud is precisely the type of conduct that Congress targeted when it passed the Civil Rights Act, said Brant Levine, an attorney for the Justice Department's civil rights division.

Father and son Greg and Travis McMichael armed themselves with guns and used a pickup truck to chase Arbery after spotting the 25-year-old man running in their neighborhood outside the port city of Brunswick. A neighbor, William Roddie Bryan, joined the pursuit in his own truck and recorded cellphone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery at close range with a shotgun.

More than two months passed without arrests, until Bryans graphic video of the killing leaked online and a national outcry erupted over Arberys death. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation took over the case from local police and charges soon followed.

All three men were convicted of murder in a Georgia state court in late 2021, followed months later by the federal hate crimes trial.

In their oral arguments and legal briefs, lawyers for Greg McMichael and Bryan cited the prosecutors use of more than two dozen social media posts and text messages, as well as witness testimony, that showed all three men using racist slurs or otherwise disparaging Black people.

Bryan's attorney, Pete Theodocion, called it some of the ugliest, most repulsive evidence any of us have ever heard in a trial, and explosive enough that prosecutors could sway a jury without proving a racist intent to harm Arbery himself.

"When the jury hears that evidence, we have to make sure that the government is actually presenting some evidence as to all the essential elements of crimes because it is such an uphill battle, Theodocion told the judges.

Balbo said Greg McMichael initiated the pursuit of Arbery because he mistakenly suspected him of being a fleeing criminal. He had seen security camera videos in prior months that showed Arbery entering a neighboring home under construction.

When Arbery ran past the McMichaels' home in February 2020, Balbo argued, Greg McMichael recognized him from those videos by his height, his weight, his tattoos, his manner of dress.

If this person had been a 60-year-old Black man, Greg McMichael would not have engaged him, Balbo said. "The race was a non-contributing role in this matter.

One of the judges sounded skeptical. Judge Britt Grant, nominated to the appeals court by former President Donald Trump, said the trial evidence of racist intent behind Arbery's killing seems pretty overwhelming to me.

None of the videos showed Arbery stealing, and police found no stolen property or weapons on his body.

Judge Elizabeth Lisa Branch, another Trump appellate court nominee; and District Court Judge Victoria Calvert, who was nominated by President Joe Biden to the federal bench and is serving temporarily on the 11th Circuit, also heard the arguments. The judges did not indicate how long they might take to rule.

The legal technicalities raised by the defense included Travis McMichaels attorney, Amy Lee Copeland, arguing that prosecutors failed to prove the streets of the Satilla Shores subdivision where Arbery was killed were public roads, as stated in the indictment used to charge the men.

Copeland cited records of a 1958 meeting of Glynn County commissioners in which they rejected taking ownership of the streets from the subdivisions developer. Prosecutors countered that service request records and trial testimony from a county official showed the streets had been maintained by the county government for decades.

Theodocion also argued that using their pickup trucks to cut off Arberys escape from the neighborhood didn't amount to attempted kidnapping. He said the charge was improper because the men weren't seeking ransom or some other benefit, an element required to prove the charge as a federal crime.

Levine countered that the McMichaels and Bryan sought the "satisfaction of catching a Black man that they assumed to be a criminal on the streets of their neighborhood."

The trial judge sentenced both McMichaels to life in prison for their hate crime convictions, plus additional time  10 years for Travis McMichael and seven years for his father  for openly carrying guns while committing violent crimes. Bryan received a lighter hate crime sentence of 35 years in prison, in part because he wasnt armed and preserved the cellphone video that became crucial evidence.

All three also got 20 years for attempted kidnapping, to overlap with their hate crime sentences.

If the U.S. appeals court overturns any of their federal convictions, both McMichaels and Bryan would remain in prison. All three are serving life sentences in Georgia state prisons for murder, and have motions for new state trials pending before a judge.

___

Bynum reported from Savannah, Georgia.
The Mercedes emblem seen on the GLE 350 model at the New York International Auto Show at the Javits Center on April 1, 2015 in New York City. The GLE is one of several car models manufactured at Mercedes' plant in Vance, outside Tuscaloosa. (Kevin Hagen/Getty Images)

A bill filed in the Alabama Senate last week would prevent companies that voluntarily recognize an employee union or hold a non-secret ballot process to receive state economic incentives.

SB 231, sponsored by Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, says that employers who voluntarily grant a union; voluntarily disclose an employees personal contact information to a labor organization, or third party acting on behalf of a labor organization, without the employees prior written consent, unless otherwise required by state or federal law; or require subcontractors to participate in either activity will not be eligible for economic development incentives. Employers who did so would also have to pay back incentives already received.

Orr said Tuesday the bill was inspired by unionization efforts at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Vance, outside of Tuscaloosa.

We saw the situation in Tuscaloosa and I think its good policy to have the private vote matter to make sure that the employees whether theyre for or against a union that their ballot is cast in a private manner, he said. They can keep their votes to themselves and not be coerced or bullied one way or the other, for pro or con.

Workers at the Mercedes-Benz plant are organizing with the United Auto Workers, citing stalled pay and benefits at the factory. The UAW said last month that more than half of the employees at the plant had signed union authorization cards. The UAW plans to call for a vote if 70% of the workforce signs cards. Hyundai workers in Montgomery have also launched a unionization effort.

Company and state officials, including Gov. Kay Ivey, have been critical of the union efforts. On Tuesday, Alabama Political Reporter reported that Mercedes-Benz workers had filed charges with the National Labor Relations Board, accusing the company of union-busting tactics.

Bren Riley, president of the AFL-CIO of Alabama, said Monday that they had seen similar legislation in other red states. The Georgia Legislature passed a similar bill earlier this month. A similar bill passed in Tennessee last year.

Why pick on the few union people we have? he said. Why not worry about making Hyundai suppliers not take advantage of children and that kind of stuff? Why not expand Medicaid to help poor folks have some health insurance? Why not help people that cant get pregnant go through in vitro fertilization? You know, they got the priorities wrong here in the state of Alabama, but thats what Donald Trump wants, so we make America great here in the red state of Alabama.

Riley said that the law would likely not have much impact on the state. In 40 years, he said, he only knew of two Alabama companies voluntarily recognizing unions.

Orr said that his concern was more on the non-secret ballot part of the bill, saying that employees should be able to vote either way in secret.

They want to get public about it, say, Hey, I voted up or I voted down, then thats certainly their business, he said.

The Legislature returns next week.

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The post Alabama Senate bill would punish companies that voluntarily recognize unions appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
Third Judicial District Court judge Richard Jacquez sentenced Bobby Charles Crawford to 54 years in prison for attempted murder and other charges in a police altercation.

A Las Cruces jury found Bobby Charles Crawford, 47, guilty in Dona Ana County District Court in February. Crawford, from Alamogordo, led officers in a pursuit through Las Cruces' East Mesa featuring an exchange of gunfire with police in June 2023.

Crawford was convicted of two counts of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated assault on a peace officer, aggravated fleeing a law enforcement officer, and shooting at or from a motor vehicle.

On June 21, 2023, a New Mexico State Police officer began following a white Chevrolet Suburban suspected of belonging to Crawford. At the time, an arrest warrant for Crawford was active. A Las Cruces police unit responded to the area to assist. Crawford fled, engaging the officers in a chase through residential neighborhoods.

A white Chevy Suburban riddled with bullets sits on Arroyo Road on June 21, 2023. Police closed the area off.

In effort to stop Crawford, a Las Cruces police officer placed his vehicle in front of Crawford's vehicle. Passing around the officers patrol unit, Crawford fired at the police vehicle and other law enforcement vehicles as they began to surround him. Officers returned fire. Crawford barricaded himself inside of the SUV and eventually surrendered to the officers.

Crawford has a long history of criminal conduct," District Attorney Gerald Byers said in a press release announcing the sentence. "Those police officers involved, dedicated their lives to keep the public safe from a dangerous criminal. The jury verdict demonstrated that Dona Ana County juries will assign accountability for proven criminal behavior. The sentencing reflects that this dangerous convict will not pose a future threat to the public or public servants.

Jason Groves can be reached at 575-541-5459 or jgroves@lcsun-news.com. Follow him on X @jpgroves.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Alamogordo man sentenced in Dona Ana County for attempted murder
NEW YORK - Monday nights deadly shooting that left an NYPD officer dead was the latest reminder of the everyday battle for public safety across New York City.

"I cannot say it any clearer. It is the good guys against the bad guys and these bad guys are violent," Mayor Eric Adams shared during a press conference following the shooting.

RELATED: Jonathan Diller, NYPD officer killed in Queens, leaves behind wife, 1-year-old

Offenders are not only attacking everyday New Yorkers, but theyre also showing little to no mercy to New York City cops in uniform.

Johnathan Diller, who was a part of NYPDs Critical Response Team, was shot and killed in a matter of seconds after confronting a driver and passenger of a vehicle illegally parked at a bus stop.

"These attacks on New York City Police officers have to end right now," PBA president Patrick Hendry exclaimed Monday Night.

On Tuesday, just a day after Officer Diller was killed, police say a woman punched a female officer in the face and head in East Harlem after she tried to enter the subway without paying the fare at the subway station on 125th and Lex.

RELATED: Woman in custody after punching female officer in the face, head: NYPD

A month before, on February 20th, a video posted to TikTok showed a fight between NYPD officers and migrants on Randall's Island, causing widespread outrage.

RELATED: NYPD, migrants scuffle on Randall's Island during attempted arrest

A month before that back on January 27th, as many as 14 people attacked 2 NYPD officers after they were trying to break up a group of men accused of acting disorderly near Times Square.

Statistics obtained below by the PBA show the number of officers injured in struggles with suspects trending upward every year.

NYPD statistics for injured officers.

In 2020, there were 3,378 officers injured, but last year there was a peak of 5,363 officers injured.

"We clearly are experiencing a meteoric rise against officers as it relates to assaults," said retired NYPD lieutenant and professor Dr. Darrin Porcher in response.

Dr. Porcher argues those stats don't compare to what tax-paying New Yorkers are up against. However, it prompts questions.

"When police are assaulted at such an extraordinary level then it begs the question to what are we doing to provide the necessary fortification within the criminal justice system and are the district attorneys effectively prosecuting these cases," Porcher said.
This article was originally published in Alaska Beacon.

Rural Alaska schools may get additional state and federal funding for faster internet despite Gov. Mike Dunleavys veto of a multipart education bill this week.

Early Thursday morning, the Alaska House of Representatives voted 36-4 to advance House Bill 193, which offers rural schools as much as $39.4 million in state aid to match federal dollars intended to improve their internet service.

Rep. Bryce Edgmon, I-Dillingham and the leading House lawmaker behind the bill, said he expects the Senate to take it up speedily and said the governors office has told him that Dunleavy is inclined to allow it to become law.

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Legislators must act quickly: March 27 is the final federal deadline for rural school districts to apply for funding that pays for nine in every 10 dollars of their internet bills.

If districts miss that deadline, they wont be able to reapply until next year.

Currently, the districts are limited to speeds of 25 megabits per second, slow enough that it no longer qualifies as broadband under a new definition published by the Federal Communications Commission last week.

HB 193 provides a state match for federal funding that pays for speeds of up to 100 mbps.

No. 1, we dont have much time left. We have seven days until theres an absolutely hard stop, Edgmon said late Wednesday night.

Last year, 151 schools benefited from the program, but many have said that the current limits on bandwidth and speed are too low for modern use.

Were in an era when schools are relying more and more on better internet speeds for everything from teleconferencing to taking tests  its become an essential service, Edgmon said.

Rep. Thomas Baker, R-Kotzebue, said that in some of the schools he represents, it might take 15 minutes to open a Wikipedia page, and that some administrators have to cut internet to parts of their school building to ensure that theres enough bandwidth for other students.

Rep. Alyse Galvin, I-Anchorage, urged lawmakers to support the bill, citing public testimony that showed it took some students four days to take an online test because of inadequate internet. Students in Anchorage could complete the test in a single day, she said.

If were going to have a system of public education, then we need to make sure this gets leveled out, she said.

Funding for the improved internet program had been included in Senate Bill 140, comprehensive education legislation that passed the House and Senate in February, but Dunleavy vetoed the bill and on Monday, lawmakers failed by a single vote to override the veto.

House Rules Committee Chair Craig Johnson, R-Anchorage, said the push to get HB 193 through the House late Wednesday and early Thursday was at least partially attributable to the Alaska Beacons reporting on the issue.

Alaska Beacon is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Alaska Beacon maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Andrew Kitchenman for questions: info@alaskabeacon.com. Follow Alaska Beacon on Facebook and Twitter.
Nearly a dozen members of Chicagos City Council Wednesday demanded Mayor Brandon Johnson call for removing ally Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez as head of the councils Housing Committee as punishment for the alderman speaking in front of a charred American flag at a pro-Palestinian rally outside City Hall this past Friday.

While its unclear how closely Johnson will heed the call for action, the clamor came as the group of aldermen held a heated news conference at City Hall, where all three veterans on the council and several colleagues blasted as reprehensible Sigcho-Lopezs participation in the demonstration where protest organizers say a veteran set fire to the American flag. The aldermanic group also pledged to hold a special council meeting, now scheduled for Monday, if Sigcho-Lopez isnt held accountable.

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We are demanding that our mayor, Brandon Johnson, call for his resignation as chair of the Housing Committee, said Ald. Silvana Tabares, 23rd. As mayor, Johnson has tremendous sway over which aldermen head the council committees. A Johnson spokesperson declined to comment on the removal calls.

But just as Tabares made the demand, a group of pro-Palestinian protesters and Sigcho-Lopez supporters standing nearby broke into chants. The shouts, calling the more than 30,000 deaths in Gaza genocide, halted the news conference for several minutes.

Sigcho-Lopezs appearance with the scorched flag came last Friday at a demonstration outside City Hall held by a Gaza-focused group calling for the Democratic National Convention in Chicago to be canceled or aggressively protested. The flag was set on fire by a Marine veteran who once flew it while on tour in Afghanistan, according to organizers.

The Little Village alderman, who has strongly noted his support for Gazans in past council meetings, has said he was unaware the flag would be burned, did not see it when he arrived and was not at the protest when the act occurred. He attended the protest to criticize the Democratic Partys lack of support for migrants and has joined calls for the DNC to be canceled.

Following the news conference by the 11 aldermen, Sigcho-Lopez shot back at his critics in a statement that accused them of being motivated by campaign contributors who prefer to keep their 80,000 units of available housing vacant while veterans and families sleep on the streets.

When they start living up to the proud American values of justice and liberty for *all human beings*, then theyll have the moral standing to question my commitment to uplifting American people, he wrote in a text.

Harsh debate over Israels attacks in Gaza following Hamas October surprise attack have brought disorder to the City Council for months. Loud protests during council meetings have twice led to security clearing spectators before aldermen narrowly passed a symbolic resolution calling for a cease-fire in late January.

Amid the sharp rebukes from aldermen and protester shouts on Wednesday, council members defended their criticism of Sigcho-Lopez as necessary.

Yes, this is divisive, this is a distraction, said Ald. Raymond Lopez, 15th. Its authored by Byron Sigcho-Lopez, who should be worrying about the migrant shelter in his ward, who should be worried about finding housing options for those who are housed there. Those are the things we should be working on.

Marine and Army National Guard veteran Ald. Chris Taliaferro, 29th, said Sigcho-Lopez overstepped when he spoke in front of not only the charred flag but also a sign accusing Democratic President Joe Biden of enabling genocide. Like several other veterans who spoke Wednesday, Taliaferro invoked the image of flag-draped coffins carrying soldiers killed in active duty as he spoke about the flags meaning.

His conduct and his speech were reprehensible to the point where we are demanding he account for his actions, Taliaferro said.

Taliaferro carefully avoided taking a stance on whether council members will seek to formally censure Sigcho-Lopez, but said Sigcho-Lopez needs to explain his actions before the full City Council.

Whether or not Taliaferro and others will be able to force the issue is unclear. While the coalition criticizing Sigcho-Lopez was able to get a special full City Council meeting scheduled with 15 aldermen signing on, the group is not currently large enough to establish a quorum to begin such a meeting. A notice shared by the City Clerk Anna Valencias office showed the meeting would discuss removing Sigcho-Lopez from his committee chairmanship.

Ald. Rossana Rodriguez Sanchez, 33rd, criticized the scheduled meeting as a dangerous precedent by conservative aldermen to remove a council member because they disagree with actions taken by someone else at protest in which he spoke.

This is an incredibly authoritarian move and should have everyone concerned, said Rodriguez Sanchez, a Sigcho-Lopez ally.

In addition to Tabares and Taliaferro, the news conference was attended by Aldermen Nick Sposato, 38th; Marty Quinn, 13th; Felix Cardona Jr., 31st; Debra Silverstein, 50th; Raymond Lopez, 15th; Brendan Reilly, 42nd; Anthony Napolitano, 41st; Gilbert Villegas, 36th; and Bill Conway, 34th.

Conway, an active Navy reservist, said he took an oath to defend freedoms, including the freedom to burn flags.

I have fought to protect his right to be reprehensible. And Id do it again. Byron has the right to be inflammatory, Conway said. But he has a bigger responsibility as a committee chair and member of the mayors leadership team because this job isnt about elevating people who want to burn everything down. Its about bringing people together to build our communities up.

Villegas, a Marine combat veteran, said he understands the frustration the veteran who set the flag on fire feels, citing his own struggles finding employment after returning to civilian life. But Sigcho-Lopez is held to another, higher standard, he said.

He called on Sigcho-Lopez to apologize and advance an ordinance that would give veterans better access to the citys affordable housing in an effort to address homelessness among veterans. The ordinance has been lingering in Sigcho-Lopezs Housing Committee for months, Villegas said. Sigcho-Lopez said he has not stalled the ordinance. The two aldermen have been in meetings discussing the issue and it is still being reviewed, Sigcho-Lopez said.
Anne Lang

Authorities announced the arrest of an Alva woman missing for nearly two weeks after she fled as her trial in three deaths loomed in Hendry County.

With the assistance of the U.S. Marshalls, Florida Highway Patrol troopers located Anne Lang, 41, near Lakeland on Wednesday. She is accused in the drunken driving deaths of a LaBelle father and his teen daughters.

Lang will return to Southwest Florida to face trial. She faces seven counts of DUI, including three counts of DUI manslaughter and three counts of vehicular manslaughter.

In the Jan. 20, 2021, crash, Lang was driving her 2011 BMW east on State Road 80, in the vicinity of County Road 78A, more than 100 mph.

A 2009 Chevrolet attempted to back from 5411 State Road 80 and entered the path of the BMW. The front of the BMW rear-ended of the Chevrolet, resulting in the death of the Chevrolet driver, Enedino Galindo, 42, as well as daughters Keanna, 13, and Aryana, 15, all of LaBelle.

Lang was the sole occupant of the BMW. She was treated at Lee Memorial Hospital.

Cape Coral murder-suicide: Gun Violence Archive identifies victim, perpetrator in Cape Coral murder-suicide

Troopers said her blood-alcohol level was 0.22. In Florida, the legal limit is 0.08.

Jail records indicate Lang was released from Hendry County Jail on $212,000 bond in June 2021. She spent nearly three months in jail.

Lang's next court date wasn't immediately set Wednesday morning, pending a return to Hendry County.

Tomas Rodriguez is a Breaking/Live News Reporter for the Naples Daily News and The News-Press. You can reach Tomas at TRodriguez@gannett.com or 772-333-5501. Connect with him on Threads @tomasfrobeltran, Instagram @tomasfrobeltran and Facebook @tomasrodrigueznews.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: FHP: Alva woman fleeing DUI manslaughter trial arrested near Lakeland
Amarillo organizations and the community will gather to honor area veterans as part of National Vietnam War Veterans Day, on Friday, March 29, including a traveling exhibit and a local recognition ceremony.

The Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center (TPWMC) will honor all military personnel with a Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony at 1 p.m. Friday at the center, located at 4111 S. Georgia St.

During the event, the TPWMC will honor those who served in the Vietnam War, as well as those who served in World War II, the Korean War, the Gulf and Iraq Wars, and the Afghanistan War. The event will include a remembrance ceremony for all fallen soldiers and a tribute to area veterans as they share memories of their service. A reception will be held following the event. Attendees are also encouraged to visit the TPWMC, honoring the day with free admission.

"We at the center choose to make this an opportunity to honor not only our Vietnam war veterans, but all veterans who have served in all of our wars, offering a special ceremony to honor all of our veterans," Tim Reid, executive director of the TPWMC, said.

A U.S. Navy veteran stands to salute the U.S. Navy flag as the military branches are honored at the Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center in this November 2023 file photo.

Adam Wilcox with the Amarillo Fire Department played "Amazing Grace" for the Texas Panhandle War Memorial Veterans Day Ceremony in November 2023.

According to Reid, remembering those who served in the war is more important now than ever due to the overall negative response that many veterans experienced after they returned from the war.

"This is a special day celebrated nationwide in honor Vietnam War veterans. Honoring veterans and these veterans in particular is important because of the reception they received by the public when they returned from the war back in the '70s. This day is a way for the nation to show that they and their sacrifice has not been forgotten," Reid said.

As stated by TPWMC, the Vietnam War was a war between North and South Vietnam, with the U.S. and others backing the South and the Soviet Union and China backing the North. The French had previously supported South Vietnam, and when the French withdrew in 1955, the U.S. assumed that role. The dates of the war span from Nov. 1, 1955 to April 30, 1975, when the capital of South Vietnam, Saigon, was captured by the North. U.S. troops had left Vietnam by March 29, 1973. Throughout the 20-year war, the U.S. lost a total of 58,209 soldiers, and 153,303 soldiers returned wounded.

Locally, the TPWMC annually honors 152 Panhandle military personnel who gave their life during the Vietnam War; each individual's name is inscribed on the Vietnam War monuments.

"On the monument, those are individual service men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country, and in service to the freedom that we have. We want to remember and honor each one of them for that sacrifice because they didn't make it home, and it is our mission to ensure they are not forgotten," Reid said.

The audience stands to honor the flag of the POW-MIA at the Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center in this November 2023 file photo.

The Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center will host a reception for veterans in honor of National Vietnam Veterans Day at 1 p.m. Friday, March 29. U.S. troops had left Vietnam by March 29, 1973.

In addition to the local honor ceremony, a traveling exhibit will be on display in Amarillo in tribute of the national day of recognition.

As stated in a news release, the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall will be on display in Amarillo on Wednesday and Thursday, March 27 and 28, available for viewing from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day. The Traveling Wall will be on exhibit at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home, located at 1020 Tascosa Rd. This special event is free and open to the community.

The replica wall arrived in Amarillo on Tuesday evening, escorted by the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association in an honorary parade traveling from the TPWMC to the Ussery-Roan Veterans Home.

An opening ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday. A flier notes there will be a Texas Veterans State Hall of Fame induction for Mike Ussery and Charles Roan as part of the event. Following the ceremony, guests are invited to enjoy the food trucks and resource fair hosted on-site until noon. On Thursday at 7 p.m., the traveling memorial will host a closing ceremony as it prepares to depart.

According to the memorial wall's website, the wall can range from 6 to 8 feet tall, with a length between 260 and 360 feet, depending on the size of the replica (60% or 80%), with the 144 panels having a total of 58,300 names engraved on them.

This event is in coordination with AVTT, Brothers-Sisters of Our Military Adventures, Bubbas 33, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, CreatiVets, Homeless Heroes, The Military Order of the Purple Heart, Military Veteran Peer Network, Texas Panhandle War Memorial, Amarillo VA Health Care System, and Veterans Resource Center.

For more information about the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, visit them online at https://www.americanveteranstravelingtribute.com/ .

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo groups honor National Vietnam War Veterans Day
French President Emmanuel Macron's statements regarding the deployment of troops to Ukraine have sparked immediate criticism from German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and infuriated American officials, who believe the action could provoke a clash with Moscow, Bloomberg reported, citing sources.

Some officials familiar with NATO discussions on Ukraine suggest that such statements from the French leader could have an effect opposite to what was desired.

Read also: Slovak DM states that Ukraine should get back home their man from Europe instead of speaking about NATO troops

Macron has, however, managed to "dispel the prolonged uncertainty regarding the positioning of red lines" among allies.

These words were not wise from the perspective of operational security, especially considering that several countries already unofficially have personnel in Ukraine, Bloomberg's sources said.

France's domestic politics also play a role, as Macron is putting Ukraine at the forefront of his re-election campaign, portraying his far-right opponent Marine Le Pen as an ally of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.

Read also: Can Europe defend itself if US withdraws from NATO  expert interview

Some EU leaders still expect leadership from Macron, and many welcome his tough stance on Russia. At the same time, critics of the French president say that he talks tougher than he acts.

Bloomberg cited the example of Czechia, which leads the initiative to purchase 800,000 artillery shells for Ukraine. Despite Macron's statement last month in support of the initiative, France has yet to make a financial contribution.

France has significantly lagged behind its allies in terms of overall assistance since the beginning of the Russian full-scale war against Ukraine. It has promised Kyiv less than two billion euros in support, in contrast to the 22 billion euros pledged by Germany.

Macron's statement on sending troops to Ukraine

Ukrainian allies will create a coalition to provide the Ukrainian Armed Forces with long-range weapons, and perhaps in the future, deploy Western troops to the country, Macron stated after a conference in support of Ukraine held in Paris on Feb. 26.

Several NATO countries, including Poland, the United States, Germany, Czechia, Canada, and the United Kingdom publicly rejected Macron's statements about sending troops to Ukraine.

Read also: NATO support work in Ukraine possible, in line with international rules, says Czech President Pavel

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas did not rule out the possibility of sending troops, as did Lithuanian Defense Minister Arvydas Anusauskas, clarifying that it would only be for training missions.

The Netherlands Defense Chief, Onno Eichelsheim, said that "all options should be left open".

European NATO member countries have been studying the possibility of sending Alliance troops to Ukraine for weeks, AFP reported, citing its source.

French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal explained on Feb. 29 that French troops could participate in the war on the side of Ukraine to defend certain borders, participate in exercises, or in ground-based air defense.

He ruled out the participation of French soldiers in combat "directly on the front line."



Read also:

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A Ukrainian artillery piece fires on Russian positions. Artillery, and supplies of artillery shells, have been crucial factors in the Ukrainian fighting - Bulent Kilic/AFP via Getty

Six months after blocking US president Joe Bidens proposal to spend another $61 billion on aid to Ukraine, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson  who alone can schedule votes in the narrowly Republican-controlled legislative body  seems to have reversed his opposition to Ukraines war effort.

With retirements and special elections having reduced his majority to just two votes out of 438, and with a small contingent of far-right Republican extremists refusing to vote on any bill that has bipartisan support, Johnson increasingly relies on Democrats to enact budgets and other legislation.

And that means he answers more to the Democratic agenda than the Republican one. And strong support for Ukraine is a Democratic priority. The US House is on vacation until the first week of April. But once it reconvenes, Johnson will call a vote on fresh aid to Ukraine, according to some of his House colleagues.

With tens of billions of dollars in fresh funding, the US Defence Department could send a lot of weapons to Ukraine  and soon. Some could come straight from existing US stocks, with the new funding paying for newly-built weapons to replenish these stocks. Others could come from new commercial contracts brokered by the Pentagon.

Its obvious what the priorities should be.

First and foremost, Ukraine needs artillery shells. For the first 18 months of Russias wider war on Ukraine, the United States was the main supplier of artillery ammo to Ukrainian batteries. In total, the Americans donated around two million shells. Half came straight from American magazine stockpiles. The other half, America quietly bought from South Korea.

These shells, along with additional ammo from other sources, kept Ukrainian guns blasting away at a rate of around 10,000 rounds a day for much of the wars first year and a half. That was enough to match Russian batteries once the Russians burned through much of their ammo stockpile in the wider wars first few weeks.

The Republican funding blockade, and the subsequent run down of US supplied munitions through the end of last year, cut by two-thirds the Ukrainians daily allotment of shells. In some of the darkest days of the war in February, as a pair of Russian field armies closed in on the Ukrainian stronghold in the eastern city of Avdiivka, Russian guns were firing five times as many rounds as Ukrainian guns were  and demolishing Ukrainian defence s without fear of return fire.

The US Army has been building a new shell factory in Texas to complement its existing factory in Pennsylvania. Soon, the Army should be capable of producing around 70,000 shells a month  a sixfold increase over its 2022 production rate.

Theres no reason most of the shells cant go to Ukraine, once theres funding to pay for each $5,000 round. Combined with shells from the European Union as well as a separate Czech initiative, urgent shipments of shells from the United States could give Ukraine an enduring artillery advantage for the first time in the wider war.

Once the shells are shipping, the Americans can address Ukraines second-greatest need: Patriot air-defence batteries and missiles for these batteries. The US-made Patriot is Ukraines best air-defence system. Its 90-mile-range missiles can reliably shoot down all but the fastest Russian missiles  and swat down Russian warplanes like flies.

When the Ukrainian air force shot down 13 Russian fighter-bombers in 13 days last month, it was apparently a mobile Patriot battery that did most of the shooting.

But Ukraine has just three Patriot batteries with around three dozen launchers  and lost a pair of those launchers in a devastating rocket ambush in early March. The batteries are spread thin. One normally protects Kyiv. Another protects Odesa, Ukraines strategic port on the Black Sea. The third battery apparently travels the front line in order to engage Russian jets.

Ideally, Ukraine would place a $1-billion Patriot battery in each of its half-dozen biggest cities and also assign one each to the eastern and southern fronts. And these batteries should be free to fire away at their fastest rate  meaning theyll need a steady supply of missiles, each of which costs around $3 million.

Doubling or tripling Ukraines Patriot force could help the Ukrainians wrest back control of the air over the front line  and also reverse the disturbing trend toward bigger and bloodier Russian missile-strikes on Ukrainian cities.

Having replenished Ukraines artillery and air-defences, the United States should rescue one of the Ukrainian armys best brigades. The 47th Mechanized Brigade is the main operator of American-made armoured vehicles, including M-1 Abrams tanks and M-2 Bradley fighting vehicles.

The 69-ton M-1 and 42-ton M-2  thickly armoured and armed with a 120-millimetre cannon and a 25-millimetre autocannon, respectively  are some of the best armoured vehicles in the world, and the 47th Brigade has put them to good use. Counterattacking Russian assault groups west of Avdiivka, the M-1 and M-2s have blunted Russias winter offensive  and minimized Ukraines territorial losses as its artillery supplies bottomed out.

But the Americans shipped just 31 M-1s and around 200 M-2s before Republicans cut off aid. Four of the M-1s and more than 30 of the M-2s have been destroyed and others damaged. The 47th Brigade is running out of vehicles.

The US Army has thousands of older M-1s and M-2s in storage. Theyd need overhaul before going to war in Ukraine, but a billion dollars should be enough to pay for the work as well as expedited shipping.

Once Speaker of the House Johnson bends to Americans overwhelming support for a free Ukraine and finally brings aid to a vote, the Pentagon could speed hundreds of tanks and fighting vehicles to the Ukrainian army.

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To Americans whose formative political years ran across the Clinton and Obama presidencies, through the end of history and the arrival of free-market liberal democracy as the final form of government, Donald Trumps rise to power in 2016 remains difficult to understand. Much ink has been devoted, in the eight years since, to placing the MAGA phenomenon in historical context. And historical has been the key word. Popular tomes from Rachel Maddows Prequel to more scholarly work like Bradley Harts Hitlers American Friends or Kathryn Olmsteds The Newspaper Axis: Six Press Barons Who Enabled Hitler have left no doubt as to the prevalence of pro-fascist sentiment in the United States in the interwar years.

What has been absent is a road map to connect that era to the reemergence of openly illiberal politics in the present. Even a diligent reader could be forgiven for wondering what happened to all the American admirers of Hitler and Mussolini between 1941 and 2016. Jacob Heilbrunns new America Last: The Rights Century-Long Romance With Foreign Dictators promises and delivers a systematic look at more than a century of open adulation of dictators and strongmen by prominent figures on the American right.

The way the modern right fawns over Viktor Orban or Vladimir Putin might be shocking in the context of Obama-era liberal assumptions about the political landscape. Yet it makes perfect sense in light of earlier paeans to Franco, Pinochet, and anyone else the American right could idealize as a real-world manifestation of desire for throne and altar conservatism, unfettered by poisonous liberal constructs like human rights or the rule of law. H.L. Menckens yearning for the mailed fist and the prophet of Kaiser Wilhelm, William F. Buckley Jr.s slobbering over Franco as a modern-day Holy Roman Emperor, and Tucker Carlsons soft spot for Putin are clearly enough threads from the same cloth.





Heilbrunns rogues gallery of dictator fans, up until the waning years of the twentieth century, begins with the cult of Kaiser Wilhelm leading up to, during, and after World War I. H.L. Mencken is representative of the kind of aristocratic, Ivy League figures who openly pined for their imagined version of Germanic strength and order in contrast to the decadent, mob-ruled, and immigrant-weakened United States. Mussolini and Hitler were the next beneficiaries during the Roaring Twenties and early years of the Depression. Reactionary organizations like the American Legion openly admired what Mussolinis blackshirts were able to do in Italy, noting how much they yearned to imitate the example (If ever needed, the American Legion stands ready to protect our countrys institutions and ideals as the Fascisti dealt with the destructionists who menaced Italy, Legion National Commander Alvin Owsley boasted in 1923).* Elsewhere on the right, prominent intellectual Irving Babbitt declared in his still-influential Democracy and Leadership (1924) that circumstances may arrive when we may esteem ourselves fortunate if we get the American equivalent of a Mussolini.



Admiration of that lamentable pair led many on the far right, in the early years of the Cold War, to a revisionist history of World War II that positioned Nazi Germany as the hapless victim of American scheming. (Sound familiar?) Over the following decades countless right-wing strongmenPinochet, Franco, Antonio de Oliveira Salazar of Portugals fascist Estado Novo regime, Jonas Savimbi (portrayed with straight faces as the Angolan George Washington), and anyone else who could demonstrate anti-Communist bona fides, however atrocious their crimesfound a robust fan base somewhere in the ecosystem of American conservatism.

In some cases the fans were intellectuals or writers. Buckley excitedly led the charge to defend Francoist Spain and apartheid South Africa (his 1957 pro-Franco missive, Letter From Spain, remains nauseating reading seven decades years on). In other cases, the dictators cheerleaders were people in positions of real power. Reagan-era fixture Jeane Kirkpatrick worked behind the scenes right in the halls of power to push the agendas of dictators. Even Americas long, close alliance with the United Kingdom was not enough to prevent her from vociferously defending Argentine strongman Leopoldo Galtieri during the Falklands War. With the collapse of the Cold War and its assumptions, there was a brief lull in dictator fandomafter all, liberal democracy had just achieved its long-sought victorybut revanchist figures like Pat Buchanan kept the fires burning from outside mainstream conservatism. Buchanans antipathy for (mostly Jewish) neoconservatives was flagged as thinly veiled antisemitism even by other illiberal conservatives like Buckley, a charge not easily refuted given Buchanans habit of lauding Hitler in print (he was an individual of great courage, a soldiers soldier in the Great War, a leader steeped in the history of Europe, who possessed oratorical powers that could awe even those who despised him).

Finally, Heilbrunn explains, the failure of neoconservative foreign policy (the Iraq disaster) and the global financial crisis put paid to what we might recognize as normal conservative politics and left the door wide open for the forces of illiberalism to reassert themselves. George W. Bushs adventurism in Iraq, none of which went according to the promises his administration made in advance of the invasion, gave powerful ammunition to isolationists of the old right; the Buchanan-founded magazine The American Conservative made anti-interventionism the centerpiece of its war on the neocons (in 2022, founding editor Scott McConnell noted that in 2002 ideas like bashing NATO and opposing free trade seemed nuts, but two decades on became bedrock Republican principles).





By opening and closing the book with the modern American rights adulation of Orban and Putin, Heilbrunn makes clear the stakes and relevance of the historical narrative. We know where a century of dictator-worship leads because the end point is our reality. There is a temptation, then, to drive home a very clear comparison: Mencken, George Sylvester, and Harry Elmer Barnesinterwar-era disdainers of democracy and admirers of what they saw as enlightened despotsmap cleanly onto todays intellectual dark web of media-savvy reactionaries. Americans who lauded Mussolini for being brave enough, Heilbrunn writes, to (dispense) with democracy to defend traditional religion and family values were using language we hear today in fawning pieces about Orb a n or Putin. What is Sinclair Lewiss character Adelaide Gimmitch in 1935s It Cant Happen Here but Moms for Liberty or Libs of TikTok for the Depression era?

What is striking throughout this history is the rights foundational belief that other countriesother undemocratic countriesare simply better than the United States.

What is striking throughout this history is the rights foundational belief that other countriesother undemocratic countriesare simply better than the United States, in ways they tap-dance around but rarely quantify. Francos Spain had a better work ethic. Wilhelms Germany was more manly and orderly. Hitler and Mussolini brought their struggling nations a vague, gauzy greatness. Pinochet made Chile strong. The other country is always a role model, an example of what the U.S. could be if not for all the pesky liberal traps like elections, civil rights, diversity, or individual liberty.

What becomes clear is that, historically, the illiberal right viewed politics as a battle between elite and mob rule rather than as an ideological divide within an established liberal democratic order. But when that order was dominant in the postWorld War II era, it was a continuous challenge for fans of dictators to cut their arguments to the fashions of the day. Thus was born decades of pointless hair-splitting and wish-casting (that right-wing dictatorships sometimes transition to democracy, but left-wing ones never do was a popular Nixon-Reagan-era article of faith) to justify why sometimes democracy was good and sometimes it wasnt, why some authoritarian rule was bad and some was virtuous. None of it made sense, none of it was consistent enough to approach the status of principle, and with the slightest scrutiny it revealed itself to be opportunistic cheap talk.

The timeline proves that fondness for autocrats has always been a feature of American conservatism, but the logic behind it has proven malleable. What began as Ivy Leaguers pining for a hereditary aristocracy to tame the rabble transitioned into a pragmatic extension of Cold War ideologyanyone who served American interests was good, full stop, and any of a list of names of Cold Warera brutes serves to make the point. Many figures like Buckley even openly praised the great pariah of the late Cold War, apartheid South Africa, using arguments cut to the fashions of the time (anti-communism in public pronouncements, the language of white supremacy in private). Today, shorn of both the context of the Cold War and the fashionable elitism of Menckens era, we see dictator fandom most clearly for what it really is: disdain for the very concept of democracy whenever it fails to produce outcomes acceptable to the far right.





Where this book shines is in making a methodical nothing new under the sun argument; it demonstrates ample precedent for our current reality, in which illiberal politics are gaining strength worldwide. Where it leaves the reader wanting is in drawing out the subtle, qualitative differences in the way the modern right admires its favorite foreign despots. Many of the examples from the pastMenckens adulation of Imperial Germany, interwar yearnings for the iron fist of a Mussolini or Hitler, Buckley Jr.s Franco and Pinochet worshipspeak to a kind of paleoconservatism or old right that glorified the rule of church and state, of capital-letters Culture and Order. People who considered themselves intellectuals accordingly couched their praise in an intellectualized framework.

Today, though, what Heilbrunn calls the conservative search for a paradise abroad that can serve as a model at home manages only the most half-assed attempts at high-minded oratory. A few bought-off scholarly types and pundits, on frequent junkets to Hungary on the dime of Orbans Fidesz party and the global network of foundations on the antidemocratic right, appear periodically in the big magazines to try to bathe the movement in five-dollar words from half-remembered college classroom snippetsa Locke quote here, a breezy musing on popular sovereignty there.

But what dominates the current discourse is anything but this kind of undergraduate rhapsodizing. The current right barely disguises what boils down to an open lust for power. They dont admire Pinochet becauseas Cold Warera right-wing minds might have framed ithe brought order to Chilean society or supercharged its economy with the magic of free markets. They admire him because he had his opponents and enemies rounded up and shot. Thats it.

The current right barely disguises what boils down to an open lust for power. They admire Pinochet because he had his opponents rounded up and shot. Thats it.

If that distinction seems academic or pedantic, it is in fact crucial. Much of this books narrative covers the Cold War era, when the American right could always frame its worship of strongmen abroad in the larger American mission to save the free world from communism. The Galtieris, the Pinochets, the Savimbis, and countless other reactionary despots around the world served a purposein the rights view. Supporting these people advanced American interests in some tangible (if dubious) way. Now that pretense has been abandoned, and all that remains is violent revenge fantasies. More than at any point described in Heilbrunns extensive history, todays right lusts after nothing more sophisticated than its idealized version of strength. These are less a bunch of aristocrats yearning for rule by hereditary elites and more a rabble that worships power for no motive more complex than anger, resentment, and a desire to punish.

That is an important quality that this book comes tantalizingly close to exploring but ultimately leaves for the reader only as a kind of narrative breadcrumb trail. It is hardly a fatal flaw, and the book offers much of value to readers interested in overlooked links between the past and present. The discussion of neoconservatisms rise to dominance and then collapse into discredit on the right during the George W. Bush and Obama years is a particular standout (Heilbrunns previous book They Knew They Were Right was a history of the neocons). But like any book that attempts to tell a century-plus of history in 200 pages, there is a flattening; the need to emphasize the common thread obliterates some useful distinctions among the connected points. That what we see today is nothing new does not mean that nothing about it is novel.

With all evidence pointing toward the right continuing down this path for the foreseeable future, there will be a lamentably large number of opportunities for future books to explore that question.

* This article originally misstated the name of Mussolinis militia.


The latest Tribal College Blanket Design, Drum Keepers, is now for sale.

For more than 20 years, the American Indian College Fund has teamed up with Pendleton Woolen Mills to raise funds for annual Native students scholarships. During the past two decades, more than $2.5 million have been raised.

This year's winner Drum Keepers was designed by Trey Blackhawk (Winnebago), a graduate of Little Priest Tribal College with a degree in liberal arts who is currently working on an applied sciences degree.

Drum Keepers was selected from 59 submissions. As the winning designer, Blackhawk will receive a $5,000 scholarship, $2,000 for books and incidentals, and six blankets for his design portfolio. Troy Tso (Navajo) and Cydnee Shangreaux (Oglala Sioux) placed second and third in the contest respectively. Tsos Directions Home blanket earned him a $2,500 scholarship and $500 cash prize. Shangreauxs Morning Storm crib blanket design won her a $1,500 scholarship and $250 cash prize.

I want to keep the songs alive that have been sung for many generations in our tribe. There are not many of us that sing, and I wanted to be a part of that percentage that carries on the knowledge of these songs we sing. I tell the younger generation to start learning how to sing and know these songs, as these songs make us who we are, Blackhawk said.

Traditional songs were the inspiration for Blackhawks design Drum Keepers, which he said holds meaning for all tribes, as each uses the drum in some way. He wondered how the traditional songs of each community had been preserved and passed down, and wanted to create a piece that reflected the importance of the drum that gives life to the traditional songs that are sung.

The design includes 12 tipis for the 12 clans of the Winnebago. The color of the design shows both day and night to signify those who hold knowledge keep the memory of them forever. The Ho-chunk applique on the outside of the tipis, which is a popular applique for dancers regalia, signifies the women of the tribe. Blackhawk said the women are important knowledge-keepers of certain songs, and the memory of singing Winnebago songs with his grandmother one last time before she stopped due to cancer was on his mind when working on this design.

This design holds valuable meaning to every tribe but more importantly to me, Blackhawk explained. His lived experiences and culture are certainly clear throughout. Among the other elements tied to his identity are the drumsticks, which he designed based on an image of a drumstick he owns.

About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. "

Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net
People try to get a once-monthly ration of chicken, during a blackout, at a small state-run market in Santiago

People try to get a once-monthly ration of chicken, during a blackout, at a small state-run market in Santiago

By Dave Sherwood and Alien Fernandez

SANTIAGO DE CUBA (Reuters) - A crowd swarms the steps of a small state-run market on the outskirts of Santiago, Cuba's second-largest city, sweating and shouting, jostling for a chance at a once-monthly ration of chicken.

A pound bag of thighs is going for a bargain 20 pesos - about a nickel at the black-market exchange rate - but furor devolves to chaos as word spreads there may not be enough for everyone.

And that's when the lights go out.

"This is life here," said Mauri Macias, a 39-year-old chef with two children who spoke with Reuters as he waited his turn to buy a handful of the government-subsidized poultry. "You live without being able to make plans."

The episode last Wednesday in Santiago  the site earlier this month of a rare public protest - provides a telling snapshot of the challenge facing Cuba's government: When the power fails, tensions - even in areas sympathetic to Fidel Castro's 1959 communist Revolution - begin to soar.

Reuters interviewed more than two dozen residents and local officials in the Santiago de Cuba neighborhoods of Veguita del Galo, Jose Marti, Micro 9 and Abel Santamaria. They told of their frustration at food shortages and electricity outages that sometimes top 10 hours daily.

"Living without electricity is primitive," said Yoni Mena, a 34-year-old who runs a vegetable stand in Abel Santamaria, a hillside neighborhood.

"The mosquitoes, the heat, sometimes there is no water. People are losing their minds. And that leads to other problems, like violence."

Several hundred protesters gathered on March 17 in Santiago's Carretera del Morro Park, chanting "power and food," according to first-hand accounts from local residents. Social media videos showed a smaller group shouting "freedom" as local Communist Party leader Beatriz Johnson prepared to speak with the crowd from a rooftop.

Both the government and observers characterized the protests as largely peaceful.

The Cuban government, once reticent to acknowledge protests, now calls for dialogue and has moved quickly to attend to grievances in areas where they have flared.

In Santiago de Cuba, local officials and residents said the government has begun to distribute subsidized rations, including chicken, rice, sugar and milk.

Power supply also became much more regular in the week following the protests, according to residents and Reuters observations.

"We are aware that (lack of) electricity provides the spark for any protest," Energy and Mining Minister Vicente de la O'Levy said last week.

Cuban president Miguel Diaz-Canel visited Santiago on Thursday. The president blames the United States and the "capitalist media" for stoking protests, and says his government is willing to have dialogue with upset citizens.

Reuters, which did not witness a protest while in Santiago in the days following the March 17 rallies, requested an interview with Communist Party officials to discuss the earlier demonstrations but received no response.

CRADLE OF THE REVOLUTION

Santiago, a Caribbean outpost some 870 kilometers (540 miles) south and east of the capital Havana by rutted roads, dubs itself the "cradle" of the Cuban Revolution.

The former Moncada military barracks downtown were the site of the revolution's first battle in 1953. Castro himself, who ruled the island for nearly five decades, once lived in a wooden home overlooking the bay. He is buried here, his tombstone marked simply "Fidel."

The city, like Cuba, has fallen on hard times since the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourism  once a major source of foreign currency - has sputtered, with potential visitors put off by a lack of infrastructure, U.S. visa rules and news coverage of economic woes and unrest.

A long-standing U.S. trade embargo and related sanctions, as well as an inefficient state-run economy, have led to shortages of food, fuel and medicine, while Cuba's obsolete power plants cannot meet demand.

Mirta Rusel, 58, a state textile worker in Jose Marti, earns 3,410 pesos ($10) a month. She said she had adapted to the power outages, but not to food shortages.

"In the days there was no rice, I ate only sweet potato," said Rusel, adding that recently she would fry it in oil for variety. "That's the reality of life in Cuba."

Some Cubans Reuters spoke to in Santiago talked of their appreciation for a system that for decades provided basic state-subsidized healthcare, food, housing and education.

Luz Perez, 48, a former schoolteacher who lives in an apartment block built by the Castro administration, said she would not protest but felt authorities needed to take action.

"Aggression doesn't solve anything," Perez said. "I love Cuba. But this situation is terrible. No one can live like this."

'WE HAVE TO SOLVE OUR OWN PROBLEMS'

Cuba's 2019 constitution grants citizens the right to protest, but a law more specifically defining that right is stalled in the legislature, leaving those who take to the street in legal limbo.

Others try to work with the system.

Maria Antonia Figuera, a neighborhood block leader who represents 1,500 people in Abel Santamaria, said she attends often angry complaints day and night.

Figuera said she organizes sporting events for children during blackouts and is constantly wrangling with local officials to assure water and food.

"People are irritated," she said in an interview at her home. "We have to solve our own problems here, because no one is going to do it for us."

Rights groups, the European Union and the United States say Cuba's heavy-handed response to anti-government rallies on July 11, 2021 - the largest in decades - have also led many to think twice before attending demonstrations.

In the wake of the March 17 protests, 38 people were arrested countrywide, including several in Santiago, according to Spain-based Prisoners Defenders. Cuban authorities have said some protesters committed crimes ranging from public disobedience to vandalism, but have not provided information on detentions.

A government truck carrying "black beret" Interior Ministry troops - sometimes employed to disperse protesters - was parked on Wednesday and Thursday night at the site of the largest March 17 protest, near a local Communist Party headquarters in Veguita del Galo.

Maria Elena Casanova, a 64-year old state worker who lives near the site of the Santiago protest and watched it take place, described it as peaceful - and the natural conclusion of several weeks without power.

"I don't feel that anyone planned it," she said as she sat on her doorstep waiting for power to return to the neighborhood.

"That was the people there, expressing their problems."

(Reporting by Dave Sherwood and Alien Fernandez in Santiago de Cuba, Additional reporting by Alexandre Meneghini; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)
Domotex Middle East 2024 will be the first to bring together the Big Four  Merinos, Oriental Weavers, Solomon Carpets, and Al Abdullatif  under one roof alongside a diverse array of leading brands.

The region's premier event for the carpet and flooring industry, set to unfold from April 23 to 25 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will be hosted by Deutsche Messe AG.

The event will offer attendees an exclusive look at contemporary designs, unique pieces, and exceptional craftsmanship, featuring a wide range of exhibitors, including Farrahi Carpets, Almas Kavir Carpet and Heritage Carpet.

Impressive exhibitor line-up

Domotex Middle East 2024 stands out for its impressive exhibitor line-up and for the unparalleled networking opportunity it provides, fostering growth and collaboration within the flooring industry. The convergence of the latest trends and industry leaders is set to create a vibrant platform for showcasing top products and innovations, making it a landmark event for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Global Director of Domotex at Deutsche Messe AG, said: "We are immensely proud to bring together the giants of the flooring industry in the dynamic city of Dubai. Our platform stands as a testament to innovation, quality, and sustainability, and we anticipate a highly successful event that reflects the vibrant spirit of our industry."

Oriental Weavers, one of the world's largest carpet manufacturers, is poised to demonstrate its prowess in producing value-driven products that combine efficiency with the latest technology. The company's participation underscores its commitment to innovation, showcasing a range of products including unique woven broadloom products, new indoor/outdoor collections, and high-quality machine-made rugs that mimic the appearance of handmade rugs.

Latest innovations

Yasmine Khamis, Chair of the Oriental Weavers Group, said: "We are looking forward to being a part of Domotex Middle East in April. It is the perfect opportunity to showcase our latest innovations and highlights to the GCC and Middle East markets. We look forward to meeting other professionals, engaging in exciting discussions and forging new business relationships in Dubai.

Azim Silk Carpet Trading, renowned for its Persian carpets, will present a spectacular display of art and craftsmanship with the largest carpet ever shown at Domotex. The 600 sq m carpet, part of the Tabriz Premium Silk Warp collection, exemplifies the unmatched quality of handmade carpets produced in the Middle East.

The flooring and carpet market in the Middle East is projected to expand significantly, with an expected growth rate of 7.2% annually, reaching approximately $14.55 billion by 2030 from $8.6 billion in 2022. In this rapidly growing industry, Domotex Middle East serves as a crucial platform for professionals to discover new products, connect with peers, and shape the future of flooring.--TradeArabia News Service
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. Bulgaria's Ministry of Energy reaffirmed its commitment to aiding Moldova in bolstering its energy security and diversifying its energy sources, Trend reports with reference to Bulgaria's Ministry of Energy.

Deputy Minister of Energy, Iva Petrova, reiterated Bulgaria's dedication to this cause during the ninth meeting of the Intergovernmental Bulgarian-Moldovan Commission for Economic Cooperation.

The meeting, convened on March 26, 2024, in Chisinau, Moldova, was chaired by Bulgarian Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry, Irina Stonova, alongside Moldova's Minister of Energy, Victor Parlikov.

During the proceedings, Deputy Minister Petrova engaged in bilateral discussions with Minister Parlikov, focusing on mutual concerns in the energy sector. Both nations expressed their commitment to advancing the Vertical Gas Corridor initiative, an endeavor aimed at enhancing supply security and diversification.

The Vertical Gas Corridor project, a collaborative effort involving gas transmission operators from Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, Ukraine, and Moldova, seeks to facilitate the transfer of natural gas from southern to northern Europe, thereby fortifying regional energy resilience.

Crucially, the inclusion of Moldova's gas transmission operator in this initiative is perceived as pivotal to its success, offering prospects for synergies with European agendas prioritizing robust and dependable gas supply.

Moreover, within the context of the Intergovernmental Bulgarian-Moldovan Commission meeting, both countries resolved to explore avenues for cooperation in various energy domains. These include endeavors related to energy efficiency, modernization, and digitalization of electricity networks, as well as the promotion of renewable energy sources and energy storage solutions.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand  Taiwans plan to field four MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones has advanced thanks to a second contract awarded to General Atomics Aeronautical Systems.

The island nations purchase comes as its own efforts to field a similar domestically developed platform falter.

The U.S. Defense Department signed the $250 million deal with General Atomics for the final two MQ-9Bs on March 11 through the governments Foreign Military Sales program.

The award followed an initial contract dated May 1, 2023. That $217.6 million deal promised the delivery of two aircraft by May 2025. However, a U.S. Air Force spokesperson told Defense News the first two drones will arrive in 2026 and the final pair in 2027.

The spokesperson clarified that this contract action was re-announced because they broke the contract into two separate actions, each for two MQ-9s.

Taiwan will also receive two ground control stations as part of the agreements.

The U.S. government had approved this sale in November 2020, stating that MQ-9s would give Taiwan intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), target acquisition, and counter-land, counter-sea and anti-submarine strike capabilities.

These drones could take over some missions performed by Taiwans fighter fleet that is already busy monitoring Chinese military activities in the surrounding airspace and sea. Beijing considers the island nation a rogue province and has threatened to take it back by force.

Its an important ISR platform for the Taiwan military, giving them a cutting-edge platform to improve their ability to monitor Chinas gray zone activities. In a time of war, the MQ-9 can also be used in hunter-killer roles, Rupert Hammond-Chambers, president of the US-Taiwan Business Council, told Defense News.

The arrival of these SkyGuardians is particularly important, given Taiwans Teng Yun medium-altitude, long-endurance drone, currently under development by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, is encountering difficulties. In January, Taiwans Central News Agency reported the Teng Yun 2 had not passed its combat readiness testing phase, with initial results finding there was still room for improvement.

A prototype of Taiwan's Teng Yun drone, under development by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, was unveiled at a 2015 exhibition in Taipei. (Gordon Arthur/Staff)

Taiwan defense analyst Chen Kuo-ming said the Teng Yun has made insufficient progress since its 2015 unveiling. In the past year there have been lots of tests. However, Im worried about the Teng Yun because its progress, compared with Chinese UAVs, is so slow, the expert noted.

Nevertheless, he was optimistic the program would eventually succeed.

The Teng Yun 2 received a more powerful American-made engine as well as an enhanced configuration and flight control system. Taiwans military started testing it in March 2023, but further improvements must take place before the Air Force can consider fielding it.

Taiwans MQ-9Bs are expected to carry the WESCAM MX-20 multispectral targeting system and RTXs SeaVue maritime multirole radar. However, Chen said its unlikely the U.S. will give Taiwan permission to arm its MQ-9Bs.

Hammond-Chambers said these American-built drones should improve interoperability with allies, noting he expects Taiwan will procure more MQ-9s in the future as they build out the number of platforms available. Four is a start and will allow for training, infrastructure and experience to be garnered. In a permissive D.C. arms sales environment, Taiwan should be able to procure more.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  As travelers prepare to leave for spring break, health officials are reminding people about the importance of measles vaccinations after an uptick in cases across the country.

The Kent County Health Department said the measles vaccine is very effective, but it is closely watching the recent increase.

Third measles case reported in Michigan

Renee Koops and her family were traveling Wednesday to Florida through Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

Were comfortable with flying. We are up to date on our vaccines. We believe in vaccinating, especially with the measles, Koops said.

Dr. Nirali Bora, the medical director of the Kent County Health Department, said the state is seeing an increase in measles cases.

It is definitely something that were watching closely. So there have been several reported cases of measles in Michigan in 2024, and so we are definitely keeping an alert and paying attention to what we see locally as well, Bora said.

4 things you should know about measles amid an uptick in cases

Bora said a decline in vaccinations has led to more cases.

For those ages 4 to 6, the Michigan measles vaccination rate was just over 89% in 2017. By 2022, that number had dropped to 84%.

So measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, meaning we dont have a constant presence of measles, Bora explained. We have definitely seen outbreaks. 2019 was a year when we saw many outbreaks and cases.

Bora said the vaccine works well and is available.

The MMR vaccine  the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine, which children start at the age of 12 months for the first dose  is very effective, Bora said. Its a two-dose vaccine series. The first dose in 93% effective. The second dose, with both doses, is 97% effective.

CDC issues health alert as 2024 measles cases match last years total

The health department is most concerned about the vulnerable and unvaccinated when containing the highly contagious virus.

Those are the people who are going to be at greatest risk for getting measles if they travel either to an international location or a location in the United State where were seeing outbreaks happening, Bora said.

In recent years, vaccine hesitancy has been a growing issue. And during the pandemic, measles vaccination rates dropped, especially in low-income countries around the world.

People just werent able to get the standard immunizations that they normally would get because their healthcare clinic was closed, Bora said.

If youve had two documented vaccine doses, you are considered protected. Bora said people who were born before 1957 are also considered to be immune.

To learn more about the virus and how to protect yourself, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Troops, veterans and family members experiencing suicidal thoughts can call or text the 24-hour Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit VeteransCrisisLine.net.

Gallows humor. Toxic or disengaged leadership. High operational demands. Rampant and normalized alcohol use. Unwillingness to seek help or show weakness.

Those are just a few of the dozens of trends and themes observed in a new, comprehensive analysis of suicides across the Air Force in 2020.

Air Force eyes more mental health initiatives as suicides continue

The new study, released earlier this month in conjunction with the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and the Defense Suicide Prevention Office, aims to create a better understanding of the factors that drive airmen to die by suicide, develop recommendations to deter the act and provide services to those affected. It also tries to standardize the process by which the Air Force assesses that data, which can be decentralized and anecdotal.

The report comes as military leaders try to wrangle a mental health crisis that has plagued the armed forces for years.

In 2020, the Department of the Air Force recorded a total of 117 suicides, including 81 active duty troops, 16 Air National Guardsmen, 12 reservists and eight civilian employees, the report showed. Department-wide data includes the Space Force, which logged no suicides in 2020.

The Air Force clarified that the new report incorrectly listed the number of Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve suicides as 17 and 11, respectively.

Though the Air Force avoided a spike in self-inflicted deaths among uniformed personnel in 2020, the figure remains among the services highest suicide counts in recent years. In 2019, 137 uniformed airmen died by suicide, prompting units to stand down operations for a day to discuss resiliency and suicide prevention.

The new analysis found that 9 in 10 airmen who died by suicide in 2020 men, and 9 in 10 were enlisted. About a quarter of those who died had a history of prior suicide attempts; more than one-third had contacted a mental health provider within a year of their death.

Other findings include:

68.4% died by use of firearm, 70% of which were owned by the decedent

Alcohol use was a factor in 39.3% of deaths

68.4% of decedents reported suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives, while 58.1% had previously communicated an intent to die by suicide

Those who died by suicide had documented problems with their intimate partners (74.4%), family members (37.6%) and military members (24.8%). Workplace (53.8%), administrative or legal (43.6%) and financial problems (29.9%) also played a factor, and 80.3% faced issues in multiple categories

The report relied on a socioeconomic model used by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that considers factors that may contribute to or compound suicide risk, including social, relational and individual concerns, as well as factors that can disproportionately affect the military community compared to their civilian counterparts.

It also took into account suicide reports developed by the Defense Department, as well as medical, personnel and investigatory records, to build profiles. The research included factors such as evidence of military sexual trauma evidence, drunk driving convictions and other information as available.

Air Force leaders urge more focus on mental health as suicides rise

No one factor exists in a vacuum, the report said.

Researchers found that mental health problems related to childhood trauma, like abuse and household violence, contributed to Air Force suicides in 2020. So too did dozens of other factors, including failing to seek help, and worry that doing so could hurt a persons career; job stress related to deployments and permanent changes of station; failures of leadership and the military medical community; relationship and financial problems.

The report encourages Department of the Air Force leaders to better promote firearm safety, publicly post materials to educate troops on the warning signs of suicide, and encourage a culture of seeking help, among dozens of other recommendations to address the underlying causes of suicide.

Katherine Kuzminski, a military personnel expert at the Washington-based Center for a New American Security, said the report reflects greater emphasis by the Pentagon and service secretaries to reduce harmful behaviors, from suicide to toxic commands, as well as a greater focus on firearm safety.

She applauded its holistic approach in addressing problems like stereotypes about masculinity and alcohol use, as well as the impact a suicide can have on a community.

At the end of the day  the goal is to increase our lethality and our readiness, right? The impact that a suicide has on a whole unit and on a military installation is much broader than simply the people who knew that individual or who were in the same unit, she said.

Suicide continues to be a problem for the Air Force, which has pledged more efforts to help. According to the most recent DOD data, 70 uniformed personnel  including 51 active duty airmen and two Space Force guardians, 13 Air National Guard and four reservists  had died by suicide in the first nine months of 2023. That outpaced the 65 suicides recorded in the Department of the Air Force in the same period of time in 2022.

Air Force leaders, including its top brass, acknowledge the need to improve access to mental health care and destigmatize seeking help. The service has launched a team to discuss ways to boost troop and family resiliency and other initiatives, such as a campaign to distribute gun locks that can slow access to firearms.

Installations across the Air Force will use the report, along with command climate assessments, to develop an annual suicide-prevention plan, service spokesperson Master Sgt. Deana Heitzman told Air Force Times.

Future reports will retroactively examine deaths in 2018, 2019 and 2021, which researchers said could better inform future mitigation efforts. The Air Force is also planning an annual analysis of all suicides, starting with 2022 data, as it seeks to better understand the problem and drive down the number of deaths, Heitzman said.

We found this report provided a more comprehensive view and understanding of the problem sets surrounding military suicide prevention, intervention and postvention, which led to the decision to continue to use this method for analysis, Heitzman said.
Rep. Andy Kims (D-N.J.) insurgent Senate bid has overcome the New Jersey Democratic machine, likely cementing him as the states next senator after a whirlwind week saw the path to the seat cleared.

Kim seized control of the Democratic primary in recent days, buoyed by a groundswell of support that led to New Jersey first lady Tammy Murphys decision to exit the race over the weekend, ahead of Mondays filing deadline. Days before, Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) also dropped his bid for the Democratic nomination and instead said he will consider a run as an independent if he is cleared of charges accusing him of accepting bribes and acting as a foreign agent.

The progressive Democrats probable victory comes at the expense of the longstanding Democratic apparatus in the state, which has essentially controlled all levels of politics, from statewide to county and local races, and which the three-term House member has had great success railing against throughout his bid.

I like to joke that if people have this perception in their mind of a so-called political machine, Andy looks and sounds like the exact opposite of that perception, said Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), a friend of Kims whose North Philadelphia district borders New Jerseys Burlington County. Given the unique circumstances around this Senate seat, Andy looking and sounding like a nice, well-meaning guy who is honest and sincere  that contrast helps him a great deal.

Kim highlighted his grassroots message with a lawsuit seeking to end the county line, or the practice of listing candidates supported by county parties in a single row on the ballot. Unendorsed candidates are shown further down the ballot, putting them at a marked disadvantage.

The county line was expected to be a major boon for Murphy, especially in voter-rich north Jersey counties. The wife of Gov. Phil Murphy (D) was the preferred candidate of party bosses who have wielded power for years.

However, the first lady was dealt a blow early last week when New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin (D), who was appointed to the post by the governor, declared that he believes the ballot system is unconstitutional and he would no longer defend the practice in court. Murphy lightly pointed to that ongoing fight while announcing her decision to leave the race.

It is clear to me that continuing in this race will involve waging a very divisive and negative campaign, which I am not willing to do, she said. With Donald Trump on the ballot and so much at stake for our nation, I will not in good conscience waste resources tearing down a fellow Democrat.

Murphys decision also came amid signs of strength for Kim.

On top of his repeated strong showings in polls, he scored a key victory in the Monmouth County Democratic Convention in early February, defeating Murphy by 18 percentage points. The win  in a county where the first lady has lived for decades but that also has a slice of Kims district  essentially laid down the gauntlet for the rest of the campaign as his support from the grassroots swelled.

That was the whole ballgame, one source close to the Kim campaign told The Hill. The grassroots were the personification that was fed up with machine politics. You saw that in the county conventions, and you saw that with Andys message.  His momentum was palpable.

You see the culmination of a really bad idea coming to fruition: that [Gov. Murphy] could use the county line in the last two years of his administration to strong-arm all the most populous counties into putting Tammy in the Senate, the source continued. And that was a massive political miscalculation.

Even those in the Murphys orbit admit that the optics of the situation did not do the first lady any favors.

It was a backflow from the Tammy campaign, which took on the appearance of inheritance or succession. That wasnt enough to keep eyes riveted on [her] candidacy, said Jim McQueeney, a former chief of staff to former Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) who worked for the Murphys foundation for three years. [Democratic committee members] looked to the left and right a little more to see what was out there, and when they looked  they saw Kim, who was out there. Credit to him, he was out there.

Top Stories from The Hill

While awaiting a decision on the lawsuit, Kim has ironically become the beneficiary of the states ballot setup. He confirmed to reporters after Murphys exit that county leaders asked him to step in for her on their county line slots, which he accepted. He has maintained that he will move forward with the suit, saying its not a system I want to participate in.

He still faces two other candidates in the June primary, but is widely expected to clinch the nomination.

Everybodys moment looks a little lucky, but it takes an extraordinary amount of hard work and self-knowledge that, This is who I am and this is what I want to do to get here, one Democratic operative with New Jersey ties said. I dont think another politician could have done this who is not Andy Kim.

And frankly, theres a reason why nobody else tried, the operative added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Dunder Mifflin Paper Company isnt just an office. Its the beloved fictional HQ for some of Scrantons finest like Michael Scott, Jim Halpert, Pam Beesly, Dwight Schrute, Angela Martin, Kelly Kapoor and many more iconic TV characters.

If you consider yourself an aficionado of "The Office", see how much you truly know about the beloved sitcom with questions ranging from easy-peasy to Dundie Awards worthy.

To make it fun for various types of trivia enthusiasts, weve split the categories up into true or false questions, general trivia questions about "The Office", miscellaneous trivia questions, and the chance to finish some famous quotes from the TV series. Sprinkle a few into your next trivia night, or try to answer them all and see how you do.

Now, grab that mug inspired by "The Office" that you love so much or put on your lucky necktie and get to work.

Better yet, grab your fellow Dundies and make a fun activity out of the below trivia questions.

True or False trivia questions about "The Office"

Image: The Office (NBC)

Scenes in The Office were improvised from time to time. Answer: True.

The Office aired on NBC. Answer: True.

There were 301 episodes of The Office. Answer: False (201).

Actor Mindy Kaling was the first person cast for The Office. Answer: False (B.J. Novak).

The pilot of the U.S. version of The Office used almost the same script as the pilot from the British version of The Office. Answer: True.

The finale of The Office was titled Finale. Answer: True.

Actor Seth Rogen auditioned for the role of Dwight. Answer: True.

The Office never won an Emmy Award. Answer: False.

The Office takes place in Slough, Pennsylvania. Answer: False (Scranton).

Actor Steve Carell did not return to make a guest appearance on the shows finale. Answer: False.

The character Dwight Schrute owns a rutabaga farm on the show. Answer: False (Beet and hemp farm).

Actor Creed Bratton is a former member of the rock band Grass Roots. Answer: True.

The Office - Season 3 (NBC)

Actor Rainn Watson plays Dwight Schrute on The Office. Answer: False (Rainn Wilson).

Michael Scott and Holly Flax move to Colorado together. Answer: True.

Angela Martin has several pet dogs. Answer: False (Cats).

Actor Steve Carells wife appeared on multiple episodes of The Office. Answer: True.

Staples paid for product placement on The Office. Answer: True.

The name of the paper company, the cast of The Office are employed by is Dunder Mifflin. Answer: True.

Dunder Mifflin is headquartered in Boston . Answer: False (New York City).

Dwight Schrute says he never thought hed say this, but he thinks he ate too much foie gras in the final episode of The Office. Answer: False (he says he never thought hed say this but he thinks he ate too much bone marrow).

General trivia questions about "The Office"

What kind of sitcom style is The Office? Answer: Mockumentary.

What year did The Office debut in the U.S.? Answer: 2005.

When did the final episode of The Office air in the U.S.? Answer: 2013

The Office was based upon which British T.V. series? Answer: The Office.

Who created the British TV series The Office? Answer: Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant.

What year did the British TV series The Office debut? Answer: 2003

Who adapted the British sitcom for the U.S. version of The Office? Answer: Greg Daniels.

How many seasons were there of The Office? Answer: Nine seasons.

Who composed The Office theme song? Answer: James Ferguson.

What is said to be the most expensive scene shot in the entire series of the show? Answer: Jim Halpert and Pam Beeslys proposal scene.

What season did Jim and Pams proposal take place? Answer: Season five.

The Office (Justin Lubin/NBC)

What is the title of the first and second episodes of the fifth season? Answer: Weight Loss

What Dolly Parton song is featured in Weight Loss? Answer: Here You Come Again

What episode of The Office aired after Super Bowl XLIII? Answer: Stress Relief.

What is Michael Scotts middle name? Answer: Gary.

The banner on the wall for Kelly Kapoors belated birthday party reads what? Answer: It is your birthday.

What is Stanley Hudsons daughters name? Answer: Melissa Hudson.

What is Stanley Hudsons ex-wifes name? Answer: Teri Hudson.

Toby H. Flenderson has a crush on what character from The Office? Answer: Pam Beesly

What was the name of the would-be spin-off of The Office show about Dwight? Answer: The Farm.

What is Pam Beeslys sisters name? Answer: Penny Beesly.

What character says Were like peanut butter and jelly? Answer: Michael Scott

What free snack day has Stanley Hudson excited? Answer: Pretzel Day.

What is Angela Martins job at Dunder Mifflin? Answer: Head of accounting.

Packman is a nickname for what character on The Office? Answer: Todd Packer.

In what episode does Pam Beesly say And I feel God in this Chilis tonight? Answer: The Dundies.

From what college did Andy Bernard graduate? Answer: Cornell University.

What does the mug that Michael Scott purchased for himself say on it? Answer: Worlds Best Boss.

Who hid weapons around the Dunder Mifflin Scranton office? Answer: Dwight Schrute.

What actor played two different parts on The Office? Answer: Nelson Franklin

Finish these famous lines from "The Office"

Kevin Malone: I just want to lie on the beach and eat [hot dogs].

Michael Scott: Im not superstitious, but I am a little [stitious].

Stanley Hudson: If I dont have some cake soon [I might die].

Michael Scott: I love inside jokes. Id love to be a part of one [someday].

Kelly Kapoor: I talk a lot, so Ive learned to [tune myself out].

Dwight Schrute: Identity theft is not a joke, Jim! Millions of families [suffer every year].

Jim Halpert: Bears. Beets [Battlestar Galactica.]

Pam Beesly: I dont care what they say about me. I just want to [eat].

Kelly Kapoor: Cafe Disco? More like [Crap-ay Disco].

Kelly Kapoor: I am one of those few people who looks hot eating [a cupcake].

Jim Halpert: I am about to do something very bold in this job that Ive never done before:... [Try].

The Office (NBC)

Ryan Howard: Im such a perfectionist that Id kinda rather not do it at all than do a [crappy version].

Andy Bernard: I wish there was a way to know youre in the good old days before... [youve actually left them].

Jim Halpert: I gotta tell you, this baby is amazing. She gets me out of... [everything].

Phyllis Vance: Im glad Michaels getting help. He has a lot of issues, and hes [stupid].

Miscellaneous trivia questions about "The Office"

Who wrote the book The Office: The Untold Story of the Greatest Sitcom of the 2000s? Answer: Andy Greene

What is the streaming home of The Office? Answer: Peacock.

The Office co-stars Angela Kinsey and Jenna Fischer host what podcast together? Answer: Office Ladies.

What was the name of the YouTube web series that actor John Krasinski created and hosted during the start of the pandemic? Answer: Some Good News

What is the name of Mindy Kalings 2011 memoir? Answer: Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (and Other Concerns)

What is the name of Mindy Kalings 2015 memoir? Answer: Why Not Me?

What Peacock sitcom did Ed Helms star in and co-create in 2021? Answer: Rutherford Falls

In what city was most of The Office filmed? Answer: Los Angeles

And in what LA neighborhood was The Office filmed? Answer: Studio City

What actor was pregnant in real life during the filming of season four requiring her to hide her stomach in the show? Answer: Angela Kinsey

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
President Joe Biden delivers remarks during a campaign event with Vice President Kamala Harris in Raleigh, N.C., Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Voting ends Saturday in North Dakotas Democratic presidential primary, with President Joe Biden looking to add the states handful of delegates to his insurmountable lead for the partys nomination. The party-run contest rounds out the busiest month of voting on the presidential primary calendar, with 30 states, plus the District of Columbia and several U.S. territories all holding primaries and caucuses in the last 30 days. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Voting ends Saturday in North Dakotas Democratic presidential primary, with President Joe Biden looking to add the states handful of delegates to his insurmountable lead for his partys nomination. The party-run contest rounds out the busiest month of voting on the presidential primary calendar, with 30 states plus the District of Columbia and several U.S. territories holding primaries and caucuses in the last 30 days.

The primary was conducted mostly by mail, from Feb. 20 through Saturday at noon CT. Ballots received after that time will not be counted. Voters may hand-deliver their mail ballots to the state partys centralized drop-off point in Fargo but must call ahead to make sure a party staff member is available to receive them. A very limited amount of in-person voting was held March 22-24 at a different location each day to accommodate residents of Native American reservations.

In 2020, Biden lost North Dakotas Democratic caucuses, which functioned like a small-scale, in-person primary. U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont won the state with 53% of the vote, to 40% for Biden. The March 10 contest was one of the last primaries or caucuses held before the COVID-19 pandemic prompted several states to postpone their elections.

This time around, Biden is poised to win his first election in North Dakota against seven other candidates who collectively have not made much of an impact at the ballot box this season. The state party had originally planned to use ranked-choice voting, in which voters rank the candidates on the ballot in order of preference, but it was forced to scrap the idea when the Democratic National Committee rejected the proposal. Now, the primary will use traditional vote-counting methods: Voters vote for one candidate, and the candidate with the most votes wins.

North Dakota Republicans held presidential caucuses on March 4. Former President Donald Trump handily won that contest on the eve of Super Tuesday with 84% of the vote, to 14% for former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley.

Biden and Trump won enough delegates to unofficially lock up their parties nominations on March 12.

Trump carried the state in the 2016 and 2020 general elections, with 63% and 65% of the vote, respectively.

Heres a look at what to expect on Saturday:

PRIMARY DAY

North Dakotas party-run Democratic presidential primary will conclude Saturday. Mail ballots must be received by Saturday at noon CT, which is 1 p.m. ET.

WHATS ON THE BALLOT

The Associated Press will provide coverage for the Democratic presidential primary. The ballot lists Biden, Jason Palmer, Marianne Williamson, former candidate Dean Phillips and four others. There is no Republican presidential contest on Saturday.

WHO GETS TO VOTE

Any person qualified to vote in North Dakota in the November general election may participate in the party-run primary, with two conditions: They must complete a form declaring themselves as Democrats, and they may not have participated in the North Dakota Republican presidential caucuses on March 4. There is no voter registration system in North Dakota.

DELEGATE ALLOCATION RULES

There are 13 pledged Democratic delegates at stake in North Dakota. Three at-large delegates are allocated in proportion to the statewide vote, as are two PLEO delegates, or party leaders and elected officials. Eight delegates are designated as district-level delegates, but since North Dakota has only one congressional district, they also are awarded according to the statewide vote. Candidates must receive at least 15% of the statewide vote to qualify for any delegates.

DECISION NOTES

The state party is expected to release one vote update after polls close with complete vote results. The Associated Press will make a winner call based on the state partys announcement.

WHAT DO TURNOUT AND ADVANCE VOTE LOOK LIKE

The primary is mostly conducted by mail, with very limited in-person voting.

Saturdays primary marks the first time the North Dakota Democratic Party has held an event of this type, so there isnt a similar recent event to make an apples-to-apples comparison for turnout purposes. However, there were 14,413 votes cast in the partys 2020 presidential caucuses, which functioned like an in-person party-run primary.

HOW LONG DOES VOTE COUNTING USUALLY TAKE?

The state party says it expects to provide an update of final vote results on Saturday evening or by Sunday evening if the vote-counting process takes longer than expected. The final vote certification deadline is Tuesday.

ARE WE THERE YET?

As of Saturday, there will be 142 days until the Democratic National Convention in Chicago and 220 days until the November general election.

___

Follow the AP's coverage of the 2024 election at https://apnews.com/hub/election-2024.
Xie Yufeng, a 39-year-old cook, throws a bird up as he shoots a bead through a tube for it to catch in mid-air, practising a Beijing tradition that dates back to the Qing Dynasty, outside a stadium in Beijing, Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Today, only about 50-60 people in Beijing are believed to still practice it. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

BEIJING (AP)  Passersby in Beijing during winter or early spring might happen upon groups of residents playing fetch with birds. The players blow plastic beads into the air through carbon tubes for the birds  often from the migratory wutong species  to catch and return, in exchange for a treat.

Its a Beijing tradition dating back to the Qing Dynasty, which ruled between the 17th century and early 20th century. Today, only about 50 to 60 people in Beijing are believed to still practice it.

Xie Yufeng, a 39-year-old cook, is one of them. Late Tuesday afternoon, Xie gathered with a few friends near Workers Stadium, where residents often congregate in the evenings to dance in tandem, practice tai chi or play the Chinese yo-yo.

Xie and his friends brought along their winged playmates  most of them wutong birds, with their distinctive yellow beaks and which fly southward from Chinas northeast to Beijing every fall to escape the bitter winter.

Domesticating the birds and training them for the bead-catching game may take four to five months, Xie said. Players teach the birds to fetch by first throwing seeds into the air, and later replacing them with plastic beads. Every time the birds retrieve the beads, they are rewarded with a snack. In the past, the beads were made of bone.

In order to do this well, patience is the most important quality for a player, Xie said.

The tradition is said to have taken root in the capital with the arrival of the Qing Dynasty, a Manchu group that took control of Beijing in the mid-1600s.

Manchu nobles, living around the Forbidden City, are believed to have popularized catching and training birds as a pastime.

Today, residents of Beijings traditional alleyways, called hutong in Chinese, often still raise birds in cages and may even take the whole birdcages out for walks.

The wutong bird owners usually release them in late spring and allow them to migrate back to the northeast  only to catch or purchase new ones the following fall.

___

Mistreanu reported from Taipei, Taiwan. AP researcher Yu Bing contributed to this report.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  The Austin Police Department is searching for an elderly man who was last seen Tuesday afternoon in south Austin.

Douglas Wendall, 66, was last seen walking around 12:50 p.m. in the 3200 block of Slaughter Lane, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Austin Police are searching for a 66-year-old last seen in south Austin Tuesday | Courtesy Texas Department of Public Safety

Wendell is described as a white man, 5 feet 7, 190 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and gray sweatpants, according to officials.

Wendell is diagnosed with a cognitive impairment, and law enforcement believes his disappearance is a threat to his own health and safety.

Anyone who has any information on Wendells whereabouts are asked to contact APD at (512) 974-5250.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Given it was navy ships that recovered the Apollo crews and spacecraft after splashing down from the moon, it is appropriate that the largest temporary exhibit ever hosted by the Intrepid  a converted aircraft carrier  is themed to the first lunar landings.



The museum, which since 1982 has been docked on the west side of Manhattan, has landed "Apollo: When We Went to the Moon," a sprawling display that "highlights the remarkable history of humanity's voyage beyond our home planet and the extraordinary individuals who made it happen." And though the USS Intrepid was not involved in the Apollo recoveries (it brought home the second orbital crewed Mercury and first piloted Gemini capsules), it has since become a world-class sea, air and space museum and home of NASA's prototype space shuttle orbiter.



"'Apollo' deeply focuses on how humans persevered to get to the moon and space in general," said Kate Good, space curator at the Intrepid Museum, in an interview with collectSPACE.com. "The content has the underlying theme of the space race woven into it, with the feeling of monumental urgency to be first in everything. That intensity and sustained determination spurred the U.S. to continue developing groundbreaking technologies."

"All of these themes are consistent from the beginnings of projects Mercury, Gemini and Apollo, which brought us to the space shuttle era, and includes the museum's beloved shuttle Enterprise," said Good. "Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the people, politics and STEM [science, technology, engineering and math] advancements that made, and continue to make, the U.S. space program stronger and more successful than ever."

Developed by the education and curatorial staff at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama and Flying Fish, a traveling exhibition company, "Apollo" uses photographs and artifacts from the rocket center's archives, as well as interactive experiences, to illustrate the motivations that drove the United States and former Soviet Union to "sacrifice man and machine in order to be the first on the moon."



Visitors are greeted by the sights and sounds of the 1960s space race as they enter "Apollo," which spans 9,000 square feet (840 square meters) in the Intrepid's space shuttle pavilion. As they walk under Enterprise and through the exhibition, guests learn about the advances in technology that made the moon landings possible and the cultural and political climates that affected the outcome. "Apollo" includes displays dedicated to the civil rights movement and Vietnam War, as well the public's response to the moon landings.



Among a collection of scale models  including a towering 1:10 scale Saturn V  "Apollo" showcases artifacts rarely seen by the public. Here visitors will find German rocket pioneer Wernher von Braun's drafting set; an authentic nose cone from a Jupiter rocket; a Soviet SK-1 spacesuit like the type worn by the first human to fly into space, Yuri Gagarin; and the gloves, bubble helmet and moon boots from an Apollo spacesuit.

Among the artifacts in

"Personally, my favorite artifact in the exhibition is the authentic hand casts of Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins," said Good. "The casts were used to make sure their spacesuit gloves were the perfect fit without having to measure their hands over and over."



"Careful observers may even notice this neat detail: Michael Collins' cast includes an imprint of his wedding band," she said.



More than just look, visitors can also touch a piece of the moon in the form of a lunar meteorite and make their own prints in the lunar dust by walking across an digital moon surface floor. Guests can also climb aboard a mockup of an Apollo lunar rover for what the Intrepid promises will be a unique photo opportunity.



"The Intrepid Museum added more detailed content, which is accessible via the 'Bloomberg Connects' app," said Good, referring to the free mobile guide to museums and parks. "There are several QR codes that guide visitors to additional information about Wernher von Braun, the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War and NASA's current Artemis program."

In

The Intrepid has also scheduled a June 23 virtual presentation featuring astronaut Fred Haise, who will speak about his experiences flying aboard Apollo 13. Onsite, the museum will host Astro Live nights on April 26 and July 26 with exhibit-related activities.



Entrepreneur and private astronaut Greg Olsen, whose Soyuz spacecraft is also on display in the shuttle pavilion, provided partial support for bringing the exhibit to the Intrepid.



Previous "Apollo" tour stops have included the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the Science Museum of Minnesota, Space Center Houston, Discovery Place in North Carolina, the Henry Ford Museum in Michigan, TELUS World of Science in Canada, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Virginia Museum of History & Culture.



"Apollo: When We Went to the Moon" runs at the Intrepid Museum from Tuesday (March 26) through Sept. 2.

Follow collectSPACE.com on Facebook and on Twitter at @collectSPACE. Copyright 2024 collectSPACE.com. All rights reserved.
A federal appeals court issued a ruling late Tuesday that extends the block on a Texas immigration law that authorizes local law enforcement to arrest those suspected of entering the country illegally.

The panel of three justices from the 5th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals voted 2-1 to issue the pause on Senate Bill 4. The appeals courts decision continues the months-long legal saga surrounding the legislation, which made it all the way all the Supreme Court before the appeals court halted its enforcement last week.

Texas does not demonstrate why it would be entitled to vacatur of the preliminary injunction, the court said in its opinion. Constitutional text, structure, and history provide strong evidence that federal statutes addressing matters such as noncitizen entry and removal are still supreme even when the State War Clause has been triggered.

The statute criminalizes the entry into the Lone Star State outside of a port of entry, making it punishable by up to six months in jail, or, with subsequent crossings, a maximum of 20 years.

Judge Andrew Oldham, the lone dissenter in the overnight ruling, argued Texas is is supposed to retain at least some of its sovereignty in the federal system.

And its people are supposed to be able to use that sovereignty to elect representatives and send them to Austin to debate and enact laws that respond to the exigencies that Texans experience and that Texans want addressed, Oldham stated in his dissent.

Last week, the law went into effect for a short period of time following a Supreme Court decision.

The Biden administration urged the justices to block the law, which was passed last year by the states GOP-controlled Legislature and signed by Gov. Greg Abbott (R), arguing that it was an unprecedented intrusion into federal immigration enforcement.

In defending the law, Texas officials have argued that the state has a constitutional right to defend itself, asserting the administration was unwilling or unable to defend the border.

During the brief time it was in effect, no arrests were reported, per The Associated Press.

Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center, a plaintiff in the case, called the latest ruling a major win for immigrants rights and will prevent the law from being enforced until the court rules whether the law is unconstitutional, in an emailed release.

Another plaintiff, immigrant rights group American Gateways, told The Hill in an emailed statement that it is relieved that the Court has wisely blocked this hateful, anti-immigrant law from taking effect.

SB4 does nothing to make our communities safer, the group added.

The Hill has reached out to Abbott, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and the Texas Department of Public Safety for comment, as well as others involved in the case.

Updated March 27 at 10 a.m. EDT

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A federal appeals court upheld a lower court ruling blocking Texas from implementing a controversial immigration law that would allow law enforcement officials to arrest migrants at the US southern border.

On Tuesday evening, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a 2-1 ruling declaring that Texas may not enforce its law, for now, because it conflicts with federal immigration laws.

Regardless of the wisdom of the Executives actions and inactions, it is for the Executive to decide whether, and if so, how to pursue noncitizens illegally present in the United States, judges wrote in the majority opinion

The law Texas was trying to implement is known as SB4 and would make it a crime for people to cross the border illegally and give law enforcement the authority to make arrests and charges for those they believe crossed illegally.

Police could charge people with a Class B misdemeanour, which carries a maximum sentence of six months in jail. Second offenders could face second-degree felony charges and up to 20 years in prison.

The ruling comes after the Biden administration asked a federal district court to pause the law while litigation was ongoing. The lower court complied, which Texas appealed to the Fifth Circuit Court.

A Texas National Guard soldier observes as thousands of immigrants walk towards a U.S. Border Patrol transit center on December 19, 2023 (Getty Images)

Texas may appeal the Fifth Circuit Courts decision to the US Supreme Court or wait until oral arguments are heard on April 3. But already, SB4 has created a messy trail of litigation through several federal court systems.

Last year, Texas Governor Greg Abbott passed SB4 as part of a growing trend of aggressive anti-immigration to curtail the number of migrants passing over the US-Mexico border.

After the law was passed, the Biden administration quickly moved to ask the district court to intervene in its implementation. They argued that Texas overstepped the federal government by creating a strict immigration law, thus violating the precedent of Arizona v United States.

After the law was passed, the Biden administration quickly moved to ask the district court to intervene in its implementation. They argued that Texas overstepped the federal government by creating a strict immigration law, thus violating the precedent of Arizona v United States.

The district court moved to strike the law, but that was appealed to the Fifth Circuit. During that time, the Supreme Court was asked to intervene and issued a stay in the law while lower courts were still making a decision. The Supreme Court, at first, issued a stay in the law while lower courts were still making a decision. However, the court ultimately stepped back from intervening, saying the Fifth Circuit needed to make a decision first.
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  A federal court has extended its order that stops Texas from arresting, jailing and even deporting migrants who illegally cross the U.S.-Mexico border into the state.

However, some sheriffs vow to never enforce the controversial new law.

Immigration is pretty much the least of my worries right now, said Williamson County Sheriff Mike Gleason.

Sheriff Gleason said the law doesnt really make sense for departments like his who arent right on the border.

I have to see you cross the border illegally, he said. So, if I catch you up here on I-35, 200 counties into the state, and I didnt witness you, I cant even sign the warrant anyway.

Gleason wants the state to focus on other crimes, like drug and human trafficking, that travel up from the border to his county near Austin.

Texas is aggressively working to secure that border, said U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, (R-Tenn.).

Blackburn supports the states efforts.

Seeing the improvement in Eagle Pass was certainly instructive, she said.

Fresh off a trip to the border Tuesday, Blackburn said state policies, like barriers that aim to block migrants from entering the U.S., are working.

Their numbers have dramatically decreased, she said.

Blackburn is sponsoring a bill that would empower border states to install temporary barriers on federal land.

When you look at Eagle Pass, you see why that legislation should pass, she said.

But for now, Congress is still stalled on federal immigration policy.

Oral arguments on the merits of the Texas law are expected next week in the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. That court or ultimately the U.S. Supreme Court will determine the laws fate.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Appleton police are exploring strategies to improve safety in the central business district.

APPLETON  An ordinance change that would have required food trucks in the central business district to end service at midnight, instead of 4 a.m., in attempt to curb downtown violence has been withdrawn after pushback from the community.

"We plan to enforce the existing ordinances related to street and sidewalk vendors," Public Works Director Danielle Block told the Municipal Services Committee. "This, coupled with enhancements to the lighting (previously approved by the committee) will assist with our downtown atmosphere."

In February, Appleton officials proposed a series of measures designed to improve the safety of the community in the wake of two fatal shootings.

The first occurred Dec. 24 near a taco truck in the 100 block of South Walnut Street, where Elijah Dodson, 22, of Milwaukee was shot in the back of his head. The second occurred Jan. 23 at Maritime Tavern, 336 W. Wisconsin Ave., where Derk Brachmann, 41, of Manitowoc was shot by Appleton police officer Yeeleng Thor after Brachmann fired at Thor.

At the top of the list of safety measures was the recommendation to cut off food-truck service at midnight to reduce gatherings at bar close.

Polly Olson will become Appleton police chief Jan. 4.

Upon further review, though, city officials think Appleton's existing street vendor ordinance has the teeth to increase safety.

"We know in the 400 and 500 blocks of West College Avenue, where we have our ride-share pickup already, having a food truck parked adjacent on a side street is causing issues," Police Chief Polly Olson said. "It was missed, quite frankly, in looking at the ordinance that piece about having to be off of the side streets on College Avenue after 9 o'clock.

"We just didn't see it the first several times we kind of scoured the ordinance. That was an oversight on staff's part."

Olson said police reserve the right to come back with proposals if they don't see a marked improvement downtown.

Input from community was 'massively against this'

When the reduced hours for food trucks first were discussed at committee, elected officials questioned whether the change would create more problems than it would solve.

"We've historically always been very careful about taking action that takes business away from business owners," Common Council member Vered Meltzer said.

Council member Alex Schultz said the focus of the ordinance change was misplaced.

"The problem is not necessarily about the massing after bar, it's about establishments not taking responsibility for overserving," he said.

Council member Denise Fenton questioned whether the change would lead to more incidents of drunken driving, given that people might drive to purchase food elsewhere.

She characterized the feedback from the community as being "massively against this."

Kyle Fritz, president of the Fox Valley Food Truck Association, said food trucks in downtown Appleton make their money at bar close. It wouldn't be worthwhile for them if they had to shut down at midnight, he said.

Two other safety measures remain in play

Two additional safety measures were recommended by city staff in February.

The first  using $15,000 of federal aid to add lighting in the Walnut Street corridor north and south of College Avenue to enhance visibility and deter criminal activity  is poised for council approval.

The second  requiring establishments with a Class B liquor license to install security cameras at customer entrances and exits and to turn over video to police within eight hours of a request  is more controversial and is pending in committee.

Council member Sheri Hartzheim said requiring businesses to have security cameras "feels like a bridge too far as far as liberties and business ownership."

"Businesses should be able to choose how they're going to operate," she said.

Appleton resident Ria Di Peeples said the proposal was reactionary in nature and "would have pretty deep ramifications on the safety, civil liberties and privacy of Appleton businesses and community members."

Contact Duke Behnke at 920-993-7176 or dbehnke@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @DukeBehnke.

This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Appleton withdraws proposal to cut back hours of downtown food trucks
MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  The Archbishop of Mobile will submit his letter of retirement to the pope. He spent 46 years in the priesthood and 16 years in his current position.

UPDATE: Mobile Sheriff Paul Burch shares what shell casings from the deadly Chickasaw shooting indicate

The Most Rev. Thomas Rodi, Archbishop of Mobile.

In a post to Facebook, Archbishop Thomas Rodi said, church law requires that when a bishop reaches the age of 75, he submits his letter to the pope. So today I will send in my letter of retirement to Pope Francis and then begin a process to select a new archbishop.

Rodi, a New Orleans native, was ordained into the priesthood on May 20, 1978, and served as an associate pastor at St. Ann and St. Christopher the Martyr parishes.

According to the Archdiocese of Mobile, he was appointed Archbishop of Mobile on April 2, 2008, and installed on June 6, 2008.

Despite Rodi submitting his letter, things will remain the same for the time being.

Now in the meantime, I continue to serve as Archbishop until Pope Francis informs me otherwise, he said. But the process of selecting a new archbishop begins.

How is a new Archbishop chosen?

According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, there are four steps in selecting a new Archbishop.

Stage 1: Bishops Recommendations

Bishops may submit to the area archbishop names of priests they think would make good bishops. A vote is then taken on which names to recommend, which is then sent to the Apostolic Nuncio.

Stage 2: The Apostolic Nuncio

The popes representative in the United States who lives in Washington DC, Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the Nuncio, as he is called, will begin inquiring as to candidates to become the next Archbishop of Mobile, Rodi said. He has already, over the past years, received names from different bishops of possible candidates for various dioceses.

Stage 3: Congregation for Bishops

The Nuncio then sends his recommendations to the Vatican, according to Rodi.

The office for bishops, or the dicastery for bishops, a panel of cardinals, examines the recommendations and presents them to the pope.

Stage 4: The Pope Decides

According to USCCB, the Congregation for the Bishops presents the recommendations to the Pope privately. The pope is then left to make his decision.

The website notes, It often takes six to eight monthsand sometimes longerfrom the time a diocese becomes vacant until a new bishop is appointed.

Overall, Archbishop Rodi said, Theres no timeline.

THC edible products seized, 2 men arrested: Santa Rosa County Sheriffs Office

I would just ask that we pray that the holy spirit will guide this process in the selection of our new archbishop.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.
Law enforcement officials are taking steps to put up guardrails ahead of the 2024 elections, where long-festering misinformation from 2020 is expected to heighten tensions  especially in the battleground state of Arizona.

Election workers and public officials in Arizona have been plagued by incessant threats and harassment, while candidates with a penchant for conspiracy theories have made the state a hotbed of misinformation.

U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino, Arizonas top federal prosecutor, said Monday that threats against election officials in the swing state make up more than one-third of all cases tied to federal election threats nationwide  and an even greater number of threats arent prosecuted.

With a rematch between former President Trump and President Biden all but inevitable, election officials and experts warn that the 2024 elections could brew a similarly perfect storm.

We dont really want to be a leader in this space, Restaino said at a press conference. But we are, and were out there engaging.

The 2020 presidential race in Arizona was one of the nations tightest, with Biden prevailing against Trump by just more than 10,000 votes. The slim margin spurred an onslaught of misinformation amplified by Trump and other prominent Republicans.

Arizona was one of seven states where slates of alternate electors convened and claimed without basis that they were duly elected electors. The hope was that then-Vice President Mike Pence would recognize those Trump-supporting electors instead of the true electoral votes cast for Biden.

The Arizona attorney generals investigation into the fake electors scheme is ongoing, according to a spokesperson. The office declined to comment on its timeline.

Election denialism was also a big theme in the 2022 gubernatorial contest between Republican Kari Lake, the ex-newscaster and Trump ally, and then-Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs. Lake argued the election was stolen from Trump, and then argued she was the victim of a stolen election when she lost to Hobbs by about 17,000 votes.

Hobbs  who ran the office overseeing the election  staunchly defended the accuracy of the count.

Lake is running for the Senate in 2024, while Trump is the presumptive GOP presidential nominee.

With those campaigns ongoing, these narratives just could never disappear, said Katherine Keneally, director of threat analysis and prevention for the Institute for Strategic Dialogues U.S. branch, of election denialism.

Election workers and public officials are at an increased risk of threats given the lasting perception of election fraud in the state.

So far, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has levied 20 prosecutions for threatening the election community, and seven of those involved Arizona officials, Restaino said Monday. Most threats have come from outsiders in other states.

Of all of the swing states  Arizona, in particular, has sustained this sort of attention since 2020, Keneally said. I find it really unsurprising that many of these threats that the DOJ has been prosecuting are of individuals who are in Arizona  by individuals who arent even in the state.

Focus on the election never went away, she added.

An Ohio man was sentenced Monday to 2 1/2 years in prison for sending death threats to Hobbs during the states 2022 primary and general elections.

Earlier this month, a Massachusetts man was sentenced to 3 1/2 years in prison for making an online threat to bomb Hobbss election office in February 2021.

And an Iowa man this summer was sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison for making separate election-related threats to two Arizona elected officials. He reported to prison Monday.

We expect that we are going to remain in the crosshairs, so to speak, of these threats given that Arizona will remain a battleground state, Restaino said. And so well continue to be vigilant on that.

Threats against public officials are notoriously challenging to prosecute, given the thin line between threats and protected speech.

The vast majority of threats reported to the Justice Departments Election Threats Task Force, which was formed in 2021 to respond to threats related to 2020 election denialism, dont reach the legal threshold of a true threat, according to John Dixon Keller, head of the task force.

Because so much of the hostility does not cross the line into criminal threats, prosecution alone is not the answer, he said. We must do better as a society; the normalization of personal threats and attacks on government officials and their families is contributing to an election environment in which people are committing previously unthinkable crimes.

Threats against election workers and public officials are on the rise nationwide, causing an exodus from the profession.

A 2022 Brennan Center poll found that 30 percent of officials polled knew one or more election workers who left their jobs in part because of fear for their safety. Some 60 percent of officials flagged concern that the threatening and harassment of election officials would make it difficult to recruit and retain workers.

The officials Monday said the DOJ task force is regularly engaging with state and national election officials and following up on every single actionable threat to the election community. The FBI has run scenario-based situations practicing how to respond to election threats and considers election security as one of the agencys highest national security priorities.

Both agencies called on communities to help friends and neighbors from falling down the rabbit hole of misinformation.

In many ways, we say that this is deja vu  we have the same two candidates running; much of this feels very similar, Keneally said. But the difference this time is we have now had four years for these election denialist networks online to gain influence  to spread these beliefs.

This deeper entrenchment of election denialism, in addition to foreign malign influence and the numerous global conflicts that have worsened since 2020, is ringing alarm bells as the 2024 elections creep nearer.

Its creating a really volatile threat environment that I am not quite sure we are truly prepared for, Keneally added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Celeste Maloy, R-Utah, middle, walks along the U.S.-Mexico border with Kane County Sheriff Tracy Glover, left, and Utah County Sheriff Mike Smith, right, Sunday, March 24, 2024 in Cochise County, Arizona.

Over the weekend, Kane County, Utah Sheriff Tracy Glover and Utah County Sheriff Mike Smith grabbed lunch at a local pizza spot in Cochise County during their trip to Sierra Vista, a small city known for its panoramic views, in the Southeastern corner of Arizona, roughly 15 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border.

Their uniforms prompted a local to ask them what they were doing in the high desert area.

Are you here to fix the problem? Glover recalled the Arizonan saying, evoking the weight of the migrant crisis.

The two sheriffs traveled with Rep. Celeste Maloy, R-Utah, over the weekend to witness Arizonas struggles at the border firsthand.

This marks Maloys second trip to the southern edge of the U.S. In January, the Utah representative trekked to the border town of Eagle Pass, Texas, with about 60 other Republican U.S. House members. At the time, she stressed the severity of the crisis and the need for security measures, saying, Its worse now than its been in past years and past decades. Everybody we talked to said that.

Maloy, who represents Utahs 2nd District, said Arizona and Texas have a slightly different take on the same issue before stressing, Everyone is tired.

So far in fiscal year 2024, more than 1.15 million migrants have been encountered by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. In 2023, this number got close to 2.5 million, and in 2022, it was more than 2.37 million. Politicians across the U.S. are focused on this issue, bumping it up to one of the leading concerns for voters.

But the border states are getting crushed, as they grapple with the surge in crossings while juggling a lack of resources without the helping hand of the federal government. The problems of the Grand Canyon and Lone Star States arent identical, either.

Texas attracts a lot of asylum seekers, Maloy said. But that isnt the case in Arizona. They have drug runners (and) ... smugglers, she said, adding that migrants often move back and forth between the U.S. and Mexico.

Arizona has only six ports of entry while Texas has 31, which includes land and water. Through his visit, Glover said he learned cartels typically process asylum seekers to areas with a higher chance of being processed. But potentially more hardened criminals are instructed to journey through remote parts, like the Tucson area, an hour or so away from Sierra Vista.

In Cochise County, the border wall, erected during the Trump administration, is approximately 83.5 miles long and has many gaps filled in by state-funded fencing and vehicle barriers.

Maloy said walking by this wall, she could see areas where the infrastructural deterrent ends, allowing migrants to walk into the U.S.

What I saw there was local law enforcement doing a really great job of trying to hold on to whatever order they can at the border without much support from the federal government, she said. I never saw a single Border Patrol agent all day while we were there.

The local sheriff told Maloy and other visiting officials not to expect an agent either, as they passed by an empty border patrol station, with trucks parked outside it. Glover noted local authorities said border patrol agents are simply bogged down with processing, which is why you dont find them patrolling.

Maloy and Glover mentioned seeing an observation point on Mexican land, near where the border wall ends. This houses a spotter, who tracks patrolling activity. The high point, nestled in the mountainous landscape, was maybe 100 to 200 hundred yards away from the U.S. border, Glover estimated.

Glover said they didnt see any caravans of illegal immigrants entering the U.S. during their visit. Officials said it wasnt uncommon to encounter such sights, even when visitors, such as Glover and Maloy are pacing close to the wall.

But the day of their visit was cold and snowy, which slowed down migrant activity, the Kane county sheriff said.

Glover recalled asking Cochise County authorities about violent encounters, and learned migrants avoid bumping into locals because they dont want to draw attention to themselves. When they do cross paths with someone hiking, backpacking or mountain biking through these scenic mountains, they often get food or water ... and then move on.

Arizona authorities said they enter a lot of high-speed car chases where the drivers are American citizens, recruited through social media by the cartels as transportation for migrants, said Glover. Locals are definitely concerned, he said. They are advised to be vigilant since migrants try to quickly move through border counties into other parts of the country.

The Republican-controlled Arizona legislature approved a bill that would allow local law enforcement to arrest non-U.S. citizens entering unlawfully, making it a misdemeanor or a low-level felony, The Associated Press reported. But earlier in March, Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed this effort, citing it as a burden for law enforcement and the states judicial system.

In the coming months, Arizona residents might decide on a ballot measure, requiring municipalities and counties to use welfare funding for a federal employment verification database, which would determine whether employees are in the U.S. legally.

Glover said he appreciated Maloy for getting her shoes dirty and being unafraid to ask tough questions and listen to tough answers. The congresswoman heard from local and state operators about the dire need for congressional and executive action.

The House passed H.R. 2  containing border-related measures like restricting asylum claims and constructing the rest of the border wall  but it has yet to be taken up by the Democrat-controlled Senate, despite a strong push from the Republican Conference.

But last week, when the House passed the remaining six of 12 spending bills, Maloy said the legislation included funding for the Department of Homeland Security for developing border security technology.

Maloy said she was sympathetic toward state-level authorities, who are forced to develop surveillance and communication technologies on their own dime, all because they care about their communities and theyre not willing to sit back and watch them fall apart. But, she added, the federal government should take responsibility.
A group of prominent Arizona Republicans sued the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Tuesday over new air pollution regulations that they claim will hurt the economy.

The Republican leaders of the states House and Senate joined with the state Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the suit, alleging the new standards for fine air pollutants known as PM 2.5 are arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion.

PM 2.5 are some of the finest air pollutants, just 2.5 microns in size, small enough to enter a persons bloodstream. They have been long identified as harmful, and EPA regulations announced this month reduce target levels from 12 micrograms per cubic meter to 9 micrograms.

The EPA noted that Maricopa County, home to Phoenix, is one of the Arizona areas out of compliance with the new regulations, which it estimates could save $46 billion per year by 2042 nationwide by preventing premature deaths and sickness.

The plaintiffs claim that making Arizona fall in line with the new regulations would cost billions and represents an overreach by the federal government.

Arizona Chamber President Danny Seiden told The Arizona Republic that while he supports clean air, the new regulations are unnecessary.

If the stated goal under the Clean Air Act is to provide cleaner, healthier air, this decision makes no sense, he said.

He added that many of the sources of PM 2.5 pollution in Phoenix are not able to be reduced, such as wildfires, and that the high bar would be impossible to achieve. He also noted a potential impact on business, showing concerns the rule may drive up manufacturing costs, leading companies to manufacture products in other countries.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
HELENA-WEST HELENA, Ark.  After a bridge collapse in Baltimore, there is concern about the safety of local bridges, including one linking Mississippi and Arkansas on U.S. 49.

As shocking as it was to so many to see that Baltimore bridge collapse, its also a reminder for those living in smaller communities, like here in Helena-West Helena, just how crucial the bridge is to this city, said Kiara Goldsberry, Helena West Helena resident.

Here in Helena-West Helena, Arkansas, a city with a population around 9,000 people, ARDOT records show 3,700 vehicles cross the US-49 bridge at Helena every day. It connects the city to Mississippi.

Baltimore bridge tragedy renews call for 3rd Memphis span

We use that bridge a lot, traveling to Tennessee, Mississippi, different places and without that bridge it would kinda make it harder on us because we would have to go other routes, Goldberry said. For one, a lot of people work out of town so they use that bridge to get to work, people use it to commute to work, people use it to shop.

Dave Parker, with Arkansas Department of Transportation, said Arkansas bridges are either designed or have protective measures and devices in places to protect them, should they be hit by something.

Officials with the Arkansas Department of Transportation also said, The vessel that collided with and collapsed Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge is considerably larger than vessels that use Arkansas navigable waterways.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
The first meeting of representatives of the member states of the armoured vehicles coalition in support of Ukraine took place in Warsaw on 26 March, with the Ukrainian delegation headed by Deputy Defence Minister Lieutenant General Ivan Havryliuk.

Source: European Pravda with reference to the Ministry of Defence

Quote from Havryliuk: "The armoured vehicles coalition aims to strengthen the armoured shield of the Ukrainian Defence Forces, to jointly increase the capabilities of our army in the fight against the Russian aggressor, to ensure the effective operation, maintenance, repair of equipment and weapons provided to us by our allies."

Details: The meeting resulted in a consolidated position on strengthening the Armed Forces of Ukraine's technical park with certain armoured vehicles and organising a system for their repair.

Four syndicates have been created within the coalition, each with different tasks: supplying weapons and ammunition for Western armoured vehicles; providing maintenance for these vehicles; training crews and technicians; and developing effective tactics for using armoured vehicles on the battlefield.

In the long term, the member countries of the tank coalition and armoured vehicles coalition will help Kyiv create the future armoured fleet of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and establish an innovative industrial partnership with Ukraine.

Background:

The creation of the Armoured Vehicle Coalition was initiated by Poland and Germany and supported by the UK, Sweden and Italy.

The UK, along with Latvia, leads the international drone coalition formed within the framework of the Contact Group on Ukraine's Defence.

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HUNTSVILLE, Ala.  The U.S. Armys recently completed conventional fires study determined the service should focus on more autonomous artillery systems with greater range and improved mobility, the Army Futures Command chief said Wednesday.

Speaking at the Association of the U.S. Armys Global Symposium here, Gen. James Rainey said the Army will achieve these improvements by incorporating robotics into systems, improving artillery rounds and pursuing readily available mobile howitzer options.

The service began working last year on a conventional fires study intended to lead to a new strategy. Rainey said at the time the review would consider the existing capability and capacity and future Army needs. It was also going to assess new technology to enhance conventional fires on the battlefield, such as advances in propellant that make it possible for midrange cannons to shoot as far as longer-range systems.

The study has already influenced one program. The Army, after also conducting a prototyping effort for an Extended Range Cannon Artillery system, concluded the platform was not the right approach.

The service plans to focus instead on extending the range of current artillery systems with innovative munitions still under development as part of the ERCA program, Rainey said.

We are in a resource constrained environment, he added. You can go after an exquisite system or you can take a more holistic approach.

The Army was able to conduct a variety of successful tests with ERCA prototypes, including hitting a target 70 kilometers, or 43 miles, away at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, in December 2020 using an Excalibur extended-range guided artillery shell.

The problems with the cannon were mostly related to the length of the gun tube and its ability to withstand a large number of projectiles without excessive wear.

The Army is planning to deliver a better armored howitzer, Rainey said. There are some great capabilities out there.

However, towed howitzers may not have a clear future with the Army, he said, adding the future is not bright for towed artillery.

Rainey said hes very interested in autonomous and robotic cannon solutions for joint forcible entry formations like the 82nd and 101st airborne divisions.

The Army is pursuing mobile, indirect fires capabilities for light infantry and Stryker formations as well, he noted.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  The Army Corp of Engineers is warning about the amount of traffic expected at its parks for the April 8 eclipse.

The Corp said in a release Wednesday that lakes Ouachita, Greexon, and DeGray are expected to have exceptionally high visitation rates for the April 8 event. A corp spokesperson added that the hours of parking-lot-filling peak traffic for the eclipse will be 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. that day.

Arkansas Storm Team Blog: Get ready for the April 8th total solar eclipse!

Representatives said barricades will restrict entrances once a park ranger determines the area is full. They added that only emergency vehicles may enter when the barricades are in place.

Once barricaded, representatives said that vehicles can leave the park but may not be able to re-enter. Car pooling is recommended to avoid further congestion.

Why is the 2024 total solar eclipse so unique?

For further information, the spokesperson recommends calling the Field Office at Lake Ouachita at 501-767-2101, Lake Greeson at 870-285-2151, and DeGray Lake at 870-246-5501.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
When the Army announced its Regionally Aligned Readiness and Modernization Model  or ReARMM  in 2020, the services top leaders argued it would improve soldiers quality of life by making their training and deployment cycles more predictable.

As originally designed, the force generation model called for a two-year cycle divided into three eight-month phases  modernization, training and mission. But experts and soldiers interviewed by think tanks feared it was inflexible and couldnt account for inherent differences between unit types.

Now, the service is announcing changes to the model for armored units after an Army Times report revealed elevated suicide rates in some of those formations. Army leaders say they are exploring options for tailoring ReARMM for other types of units as well.

BROKEN TRACK: Suicides & suffering in Armys exhausted armor community

Maj. Gen. Charles Lombardo, a senior Army headquarters official overseeing training plans, told Army Times in a March 18 interview that the service recently expanded ReARMM phase lengths from eight months to 12 months for the Armored Brigade Combat Teams. Deployments will remain eight months in length; the lengthened mission phase now accounts for equipment transit. Lombardo, a career armor officer, discussed other service initiatives intended to alleviate strain on the Armys armored force as well.

Army Times also spoke with force structure and force management experts, as well as soldiers familiar with executing the training model.

Michael Linick, a retired infantry colonel and RAND researcher with expertise in force management, penned a December 2023 report about the ReARMM models intersection with other Army systems and its impact on soldiers. He said there is a disconnect between Army senior leaders rhetoric on taking care of people, long term investments and human capital and how operational- and tactical-level leaders are incentivized to deliver readiness above all else.

Lombardo and Army leaders aim to close that gap, both by reining in overambitious commanders and adjusting systems to set units up for success.

Changes for armor units, reducing mission creep

Restructuring ReARMM for armor brigades is a key step toward keeping soldiers in their own beds between deployments, Lombardo argued. The longer phases are just a start.

Then-Brig. Gen. Charles Lombardo addresses a crowd at the Army Combined Arms Center at Fort Leavenworth, Kan., in May 2022. Lombardo went from deputy commanding general of CAC to the Army's director of training, G-3/5/7. (Army)

The original eight-month model had little room for error. Unexpected delays could derail the modernization or training phases, and units often lost their final weeks of training in order to ship their vehicles overseas for deployments.

The service began revising ReARMM for armor units around a year ago, Army officials said. One lesson that likely informed Army leaders: the 3rd Infantry Divisions 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team took roughly 18 months (10 longer than the previous modernization phases length) to field new tanks, according to a release.

Mark Cancian, a retired Marine Corps officer and force structure analyst for the Center for International and Strategic Studies, said eight [months] is too fast to be sustained for the long term. Cancian said the Armys shift toward 12-month ReARMM phases is headed in the right direction for tank units.

Lombardo, the two-star general, said that Army headquarters is taking deliberate steps to slow down the tempo at home station for those troops as well. Training progressions, which climb from crew-level gunnery through successive echelons to the brigade level, can wear down soldiers and their vehicles when executed in rapid succession.

The Army also wants to start sending units on combat training center rotations at more optimal times in their mission preparation, Lombardo added. An Army official said that armor units may also see streamlined training requirements in the future that could eliminate some redundant standards and reduce the amount of time spent in the field banging up their vehicles.

According to Lombardo, Army headquarters officials are also stepping up their oversight of lower-level training exercises in an effort to reduce troops time away from home and limit the strain posed by maintenance.

By carefully managing what units should be accomplishing and when, the Army aims to eliminate or reduce the mission creep from commanders and ... lock in requirements to ensure that training calendars have predictability and so-called white space, he said.

An officer from a National Guard combined arms battalion briefs his subordinates on an operations order at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., on July 24, 2020. (Sgt. Bill Boecker/Army)

Linick, the RAND researcher, said that such space on unit calendars plays a critical role in achieving people-oriented goals such as mandatory trainings, building unit cohesion or even taking care of issues at home. But he and his coauthors cautioned in the December report that such open time on a units calendar can lead higher-level headquarters [to interpret] that as excess capacity and ... fill that white space with additional taskings or requirements.

Lombardo added that spacing out training events across the lengthened modernization and training phases of ReARMM should empower armor unit commanders to provide programmed, deliberate maintenance operations that keep their vehicles healthy and reduce the amount of work rolling down onto maintainers.

Another avenue for cutting down the maintenance workload, according to Lombardo, will be the Armys plan to do an operational reset  or depot-level maintenance overhaul  of a limited amount of the services oldest tanks on an annual basis. The move could allow maintainers to focus on their most capable vehicles rather than pouring time into decrepit ones. Linick and Cancian also suggested that poor recruiting has made it challenging for units to keep all of their crews at full strength as well.

Were fighting hard at the department level to rebuild and reset this [tank] fleet ... so they can truly just focus on fighting and training and not be overwhelmed with the maintenance activities, Lombardo said. Other measures  including increased funding for spare parts and mechanic training  also aim to alleviate maintenance stress.

Different units, different needs

Other types of units may also require tailored versions of ReARMM in order to optimize their readiness-building path, Linick argued.

Citing focus groups of Army officers and noncommissioned officers assembled for the December report, Linick and his coauthors said several interviewees clearly articulated that ReARMM seems to be a brigade combat team-centric model that does not fit well with units that either have limited modernization needs or have significant and ongoing missions.

Members of specialized support units, such as expeditionary military intelligence brigades, said a cyclical model doesnt make sense for their formations because their members are in constant use.

One senior training staff member told RAND researchers that eight months may actually be too much modernization time for light infantry units in some cycles.

In light infantry, our modernization does not impact us as much. Its very small, he said. Youre going to get a new radio, OK.

A division-level planner, who asked that Army Times not publish his name because he was not authorized to speak to media, criticized the model as overly prescriptive and one-size-fits-all.

Lombardo (and Forces Command officials cited by Linick in the RAND report) said the service is aware of the need for adjustments. He said the Army is continuing to analyze and adjust the cycles for specific unit types  armor units were merely the first on the list.

The next unit cohort were looking at is Combat Aviation Brigades, said Lombardo. The Armys flying units have been in high demand for many years, and their modernization and training needs are complex  and potentially dangerous if executed too hastily.

The Army is considering updating how combat aviation units modernize, train and deploy. (Staff Sgt. Tim Morgan/Army)

Such haste to meet training benchmarks may have contributed to two deadly mid-air collisions in early 2023, according to the Armys aviation chief.

The head of the Armys aviation branch, Maj. Gen. Mac McCurry, told Army Times in October 2023 that some units were out-training their level of experience when trying to tackle unit-level training progressions that outstripped the typical two-ship missions that personified the branchs operations during most of the Global War on Terror.

Op tempo, training complexity pose risk to aircrews, per aviation boss

Lombardo is bullish on the Armys ability to get force generation right.

The ReARMM model, when followed ... is going to provide predictable lifecycle windows, he said. We ... have to continue to be willing to look at ourselves and assess and refine [the model].

But despite the Armys apparent willingness to adjust in whatever ways it deems necessary to make the ReARMM cycle more efficient for its units and soldiers, some service members remain skeptical that soldiers will see the benefit.

Whether theyre calling it ReARMM or something else, its all the same, right? said one soldier, whose identity was withheld in the report, to RAND researchers. You come into work thinking youre going to do something and then something else happens, what you have to do changes, and you get on with it.
Nearly a year after a city well was shut down due to PFAS contamination, Stillwater residents will soon see the first official notice from the government of the problem  a delay that's drawn criticism from former Gov. Arne Carlson.

In a letter to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Carlson called it "stunning" that people weren't informed sooner.

"This goes well beyond careless management or an administrative snafu. People's lives were placed in danger by the deliberate inaction of their own government," he wrote in a March 20 email to Health Commissioner Brooke Cunningham.

Carlson asked why the public wasn't informed as soon as the first well was found to have contaminants, and why there was a delay in closing the well after the problem was found.

In a reply, Assistant Commissioner Myra Kunas said it's been the agency's practice to notify local officials whenever elevated levels of PFAS are detected in a drinking water system and to recommend that they share that information with residents. It's done this way because there are not yet any actionable federal or state standards for the allowable amount of PFAS in drinking water, Kunas wrote.

"MDH currently has no regulatory authority to act to shut down a water system with any amount of PFAS detected," she wrote.

In Stillwater, a routine test of city well #6 on Nov. 22, 2022, found high levels of perfluorooctane sulfonate, or PFOS, one of the many types of chemicals in the family of known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. Further tests on March 7, April 27 and Aug. 16 of 2023 confirmed levels of PFOS in the well at or near 15 nanograms per liter, the safety threshold.

The Minnesota Department of Health on Oct. 31 sent a letter to the Stillwater City Council, notifying its members that it was issuing a health risk advisory for PFAS at well #6. The letter included two recommendations, the first being to notify the public.

"It is important that people consuming the water be informed about any potential health risks and actions they can take to reduce exposure to PFAS from their drinking water, as well as any actions the water system is taking," the letter stated.

The letter also recommended the city "plan for and take action" to reduce PFAS in the drinking water supply.

City Administrator Joe Kohlmann said the city shut down well #6 on April 17, 2023, after a second test revealed problems. The state Health Department recommends testing over nearly a year to confirm the PFAS numbers and to avoid a false positive, Kohlmann said.

The city didn't go public immediately with the PFAS news. Instead, it hired St. Paul engineering consultant TKDA on a $25,000 contract to craft a PFAS communications plan.

The closure of the well was not widely shared until the consultant's communications plan was placed on an agenda for a March 6 workshop meeting and the contaminated well was reported by the Star Tribune on March 4.

Stillwater Mayor Ted Kozlowski on Wednesday agreed the city could have moved faster, but added that the well was already shut down and that test results showed a small amount of contamination compared to cities like Woodbury or Cottage Grove, where PFAS contamination has upended the water systems.

"The whole way this was presented to us was that this wasn't a big deal," said Kozlowski. "You're a hair above what's considered acceptable ... It was never presented as an urgent situation."

Kozlowski said he spoke to Carlson at length last week, calling it a "really good conversation." "It's unfortunate that Stillwater is one of the examples but the communication on this stuff is tough," said Kozlowski. "We need more help from the state on this."

Kozlowski added that the state's Oct. 31 instruction to notify the public wasn't clear. "What do we tell them? Is it safe? Is it not safe?" Kozlowski said, noting that the city doesn't have a scientist or public relations person on staff.

City residents will see the first official notice of PFAS contamination in the April 1 newsletter. The city has also created a PFAS information page on its website, said Kohlmann.

The health notice was a first for Stillwater, but PFAS contamination has been found worldwide, a result of widespread use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in manufacturing a wide array of products from nonstick pans to stain-resistant fabric and carpets, firefighting foam and some products that resist grease, water and oil.

PFAS, sometimes referred to as a 'forever chemical' because it doesn't easily break down, have been found in water supplies globally, in food packaging, biosolids, food, and solid waste disposal sites. They also have been detected in human blood. The chemicals are considered a health threat; they are known to cause high cholesterol, change liver function and reduce immune response. They're also linked to thyroid disease and kidney and testicular cancer.

In Stillwater, the PFAS story is likely to continue: It's long been known that the EPA will soon lower safety thresholds for PFAS, and based on the new numbers, a second Stillwater well could get flagged. Well #10 has tested at 4.2 to 4.7 nanograms per liter for PFOS, above the new threshold, state health officials said.

More information, including PFAS testing results for community water systems, is available on the Minnesota Department of Health's PFAS dashboard.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  The Angelo State University Planetarium has gotten an upgrade with the recent installment of an out-of-this-world attraction.

The planetariums front lobby and display area are now home to a new GeoDome Globe, a roughly 4-foot-wide device that will provide state-of-the-art learning and research opportunities for ASU students while also acting as an exciting new element for community visitors of all ages.

The globe comes equipped with an OmniFocus 4K dual laser projection system and a touchscreen kiosk with audio. It also utilizes a high-performance Elumenati IG image generator and WorldViewer software to provide 360-degree global views of a wide array of programs and subjects, including:

Solar System programs

Current weather patterns, precipitation and temperatures

Current satellite tracks and locations

Volcanic and tectonic activity over the last 10,000 years

Historical extreme weather data, including tropical storms, hurricanes, etc.

Paleo, geographical, astronomical and historical maps

Astronomy programs specifically for kids

Additionally, the WorldViewer software will allow ASU faculty and students to create their own images, shows and content for the GeoDome Globe and the Planetarium.

NASA astronaut to come to San Angelo for Hispanic Heritage Month banquet

The system also has Eyes on the Earth software that was created in collaboration with NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Students and visitors can use the interactive controls to access real-time NASA data on the Earths vital signs, including air temperature, carbon dioxide, sea levels, ozone, ice and water, as well as explore previous NASA mission data on the Earths oceans, atmosphere and land masses. NASA-curated tours and 3-D explorations of planets and their moons, asteroids and other objects in the solar system are also available.

We are very excited to have the new display in the Planetarium lobby, Dr. Kenneth Carrell, planetarium director, said. It will allow visitors to see excellent high-resolution images and data about our Earth and space, and it will allow faculty in our Department of Physics and Geosciences to create interactive and immersive content for our classes and the community. Many faculty members already have excellent ideas and plans on how to incorporate this new teaching tool into classes at various levels, as well as research projects.

These Concho Valley towns will get a partial eclipse on April 8

The ASU Planetarium annually welcomes about 3,000 visitors of all ages, including groups from local and area K-12 schools, scouting programs, assisted living facilities and various community organizations. Additionally, the public Planetarium shows that are offered weekly during the spring and fall semesters average about 3,500 attendees each year. The lobby/display area where the GeoDome Globe is located is also open daily to ASU students and the community during regular business hours.

The purchase of the GeoDome Globe from The Elumenati was funded through ASUs Hispanic Serving Institution-Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (HSI-STEM) grant from the United States Department of Education.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
Individual cases can often tell a story far better than a welter of statistics. The way Abdul Ezedi, who attacked a woman and her children in Clapham, south London, was granted asylum in this country encapsulates everything that is wrong with the system.

The Afghan national had twice been refused asylum by the Home Office and had even been convicted of sex offences. Not only was he allowed to stay when he should have been deported but he was given a third opportunity to apply for asylum. This time he was successful after a judge was persuaded that he had converted to Christianity and would be in danger if he returned home.

We only know this because this newspaper and other media organisations insisted on seeing details of the ruling. Only after applications were made did the First Tier Tribunal, which handles immigration and asylum applications, give out the paperwork.

This raises further questions over judicial secrecy in this country following the disclosure by The Telegraph that a record number of cases  mainly motoring and TV licence offences  are being prosecuted behind closed doors under the Single Justice Procedure (SJP). The old adage that justice must be seen to be done once underpinned the legal system, yet finding out what goes on in some courts is increasingly difficult.

If the reasons for overturning Home Office decisions on asylum are not made public, then how is anyone to know whether the proper procedures have been followed? In Ezedis case, even though he had lied persistently about his background, Judge William OHanlon believed his conversion was genuine and allowed his appeal on human rights grounds. Ezedi drowned in the Thames after the Clapham attack and was buried according to Muslim funeral rites.

This is part of a worrying trend. The courts are increasingly overturning Home Office decisions to deny asylum. The proportion of successful appeals has risen from 29 per cent in 2010 to 51 per cent in 2023. The judiciary will argue that they are just implementing the law, but a number of questions arise. First, deportations of illegal migrants convicted of crimes should be carried out automatically, but arent. Why not? Second, how is it possible that, when the Home Office makes a decision to reject an asylum claim, it can be challenged not once but three times? The system is broken and it is time the Government repaired it.

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.
Russias invasion of Ukraine is buttressed by Iranian technologies, drawing alarm from U.S. lawmakers and military officials.

What was once simple collaboration between two governments has in the past year blossomed into a nascent military partnership, according to a U.S. Central Command assessment submitted this month to Congress. The command was the keystone of the U.S. war on terror; its remit includes Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran and Yemen.

Tehran has provided Moscows war machine at least 1,000 attack drones and dozens of multipurpose unmanned aerial systems for use against Ukrainian troops, with future plans to aid domestic production, said CENTCOM boss Gen. Michael Kurilla. Those figures are up dramatically from just months ago.

Ukrainian air defenses intercept a Shahed drone May 30, 2023. (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP)

The relationship between Iran and Russia? That really started when they asked for them to provide the one-way attack UAS, specifically the Shahed-136, Kurilla told the House Armed Services Committee on March 21. They started providing complete systems, and they built an actual factory in Russia, and those same Shahed-136  a very capable system  are now going at a rate of over 100 a week from Russia into Ukraine.

Footage of Russian production lines was shared online earlier this year. On display were rows of black and grey Shahed clones: airframes with triangular bodies, rounded spines, stubby nose cones and vertical stabilizers extending above and below the wings.

Militaries and militant groups are increasingly using drones and other unmanned technologies to collect intelligence and strike from greater distances. Their battlefield applicability is highlighted by the Russia-Ukraine war as well as Houthi harassment in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Iran is implicated in both aggressions, according to the Defense Intelligence Agency, a principal source of foreign intel for combat operations. Russian troops and Houthi rebels alike have adopted the Shahed, known among the respective forces as the Geran or Waid, agency analysis shows. The model offers users an explosive payload with more than 1,000 miles of range, all at relatively low cost.

US sees footprints of Iran-backed group in Tower 22 drone attack

U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, a Connecticut Democrat, said one of the most obvious manifestations of Irans belligerence is the fact that theyve now become a major weapons supplier to foreign governments.

One of the reasons why Ukraine is in such desperate straits right now is because of the torrent of drones that, again, is being used by Russian forces to weaken the front line, Courtney said.

Tehran has long supported a constellation of extremist groups in its neighborhood, and the U.S. has repeatedly sanctioned individuals and organizations for their alleged weapons work.

The Treasury Department in December said it targeted 10 entities and four individuals for facilitating Irans procurement of U.S.-origin electronics for use in unmanned systems. Two months later, the department said it hit four front companies that supplied materials and sensitive technology for Irans ballistic missile and UAV programs, including the Shahed series.

We all know Iran has been a patron of terrorist militia and a main source of instability in the region for over 40 years, U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, an Alabama Republican, said. But over the last few years, it seems the ayatollah has become even more emboldened.
FULLERTON, Calif. - Southern California authorities said an attempted robber who claimed to have an explosive device inside a Fullerton bank was shot and killed by police Tuesday.

Officers with the Fullerton Police Department responded to the Wells Fargo bank on the 100 block of W. Bastanchury Rd. around 5:10 p.m. regarding a robbery in progress.

Fullerton PD officials said a man wearing a mask entered the bank and demanded money from the teller, adding that he said he had a bomb. According to Fullerton Police Sgt. Ryan O'Neil, people inside the bank told police the man "produced what appeared to be an explosive device."

Images from SkyFOX showed a SWAT BearCat and robot outside the business.

Investigators said the bank was still open and employees and another customer were inside the business at the time of the attempted robbery.

When officers arrived, the suspect was walking out of the bank.

"They had their guns drawn and then the door to the bank opened, and the guy came out, and they said Drop,' and then he didnt listen, so they shot him," said witness Jennifer Serna. "One shot and then that was that."

He was declared dead at the scene. The suspect's name has not been released by authorities pending next of kin notification.

Officials confirmed the customer and all the bank employees were safely evacuated, and no one else was hurt.

The Orange County Sheriffs Department Bomb Squad also responded to the scene due to the suspicious device. They later declared the device in question was constructed to resemble a facsimile device.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Fullerton PD Detective N. Kaprielian at 714-738-6763.
AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL)  Auburns cherished centenarian and veteran, Ambers Hanson, is receiving commendations from the Alabama State Legislature for his unwavering dedication to serving his country, community, and family. In a heartfelt proclamation, Representatives Chad Robertson and Joe Louvurn extended their highest praises to Hanson, highlighting his remarkable personal and professional achievements throughout his lifetime.

Representative Chad Robertson expressed admiration for Hansons perseverance, stating, Just the amount of determination he exhibited, going through two wars and stopping school twice  the grit of that is truly remarkable.

Hansons journey of service began in 1942 when he left high school to serve as a radio operator on B-17 and B-24 aircraft during World War II. Despite facing adversity, including surviving a plane crash and participating in 25 bombing missions over Europe, Hanson returned to complete his education, earning a degree in agricultural economics from Auburn University.

Reflecting on his experiences, Hanson emphasized the importance of education in fostering understanding, cooperation, and care for others and the country. And education helps all of us to understand and to cooperate and care for each other as we care for our country, he said.

Throughout his life, Hansons most cherished achievement has been his 71-year marriage to his beloved wife, Jean, whom he credits as the best thing that ever happened to him. She is the best thing that ever happened in my life. Ive had some good things and bad things  and this is the best one. I love her very much  and I love him very much too and after 71 years I can say that with all sincerity, said Jean Hanson alongside her husband.

As Hanson approaches his 101st birthday in July, he shares his advice for a fulfilling life: Have respect and love for each other. His remarkable story of resilience, sacrifice, and love serves as an inspiration to all.

In addition to the legislative proclamation, Hansons contributions are being celebrated by the Auburn community. Hansons legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us of the importance of service, education, and love in building a better world.

For those interested in hearing more about Hansons extraordinary life, a YouTube video featuring the World War II veteran describing his experiences is available for viewing.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, March 27. Turkmenistan and Pakistan discussed the implementation of the Turkmenistan - Afghanistan - Pakistan - India (TAPI) gas pipeline project, Trend reports.

According to official information, these issues were discussed during the meeting of the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Islamabad Atajan Movlamov with the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) of Pakistan Musadik Masood Malik.

During the meeting, the Minister announced Pakistan's intention to continue strengthening partnership relations between the participating countries in this project.

He confirmed that the TAPI project is one of the key projects for Pakistan, and the country is determined to complete its implementation.

Meanwhile, during Musadik Masood Malik's previous tenure as minister, the TAPI project received significant momentum in Pakistan.

It is expected that the TAPI gas pipeline will annually transport 33 billion cubic meters of natural gas along an 1800-kilometer route from Turkmen Galkynysh, the second largest gas field in the world, to the Indian city of Fazilka, located near the border of India with Pakistan.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  After deliberations behind closed doors Tuesday, Austin City Council intends to move forward with T.C. Broadnax as its next city manager, according to a city council message board post from Mayor Kirk Watson.

City council members still need to vote next Thursday, April 4, to direct its search firm to negotiate a contract with Broadnax, according to the post.

This posting will also be for potential passage of an ordinance to employ T.C. Broadnax as Austin City Manager, the mayor wrote. Again, I know we are all deeply thankful to Sara Hensley for putting herself on the line and offering to be our City Manager.

T.C. Broadnax and Sara Hensley were the finalists for the position of roughly 40 applicants. They met with the public, with City of Austin staff and with the mayor and council members this week.

I am honored and I look forward to the City Councils vote to allow me to serve as Austins next City Manager. With the continued growth of our states capital city, I am mindful of the critical needs we must urgently address and I am committed to doing so with a collaborative, transparent, inclusive and equitable approach.

I also want to thank the Dallas City Council, city staff, and residents for the opportunity to serve as their City Manager for the last seven years, Broadnax said in a statement Tuesday night.

In a statement to KXAN Tuesday, council member Zo Qadri said the following:

It is very exciting that Council has reached the decision to hire T.C. Broadnax as the next City Manager for the City of Austin. We had a rigorous and lengthy discussion among Council Members, where we ultimately decided that his breadth and depth of experience, coupled with positive feedback, put Mr. Broadnax over the top. I look forward to working with him as we approach Austins opportunities and tackle our citys issues together in the future.

What we know about T.C. Broadnax

In a Q&A session with members of Austins media Thursday, Broadnax talked about his priorities for his first 100 days in office, including hiring a permanent police chief and making that process open to the public. He also talked about early work on homelessness.

Nearly 40 people applied to be Austins next city manager, heres what comes next

Going back to the table to figure out the appropriate scope of services that everybody can agree to for the diagnostic that was supposed to be done on our homeless ecosystem to make sure we get that right, he said.

Broadnax has served as the city manager of Dallas for the last seven years, according to the City of Dallas website. He announced he was stepping down from the role last month. His last day will be June 3, according to Dallas City Council documents.

T.C. Broadnax, candidate for Austin city manager position (Courtesy: City of Dallas)

Several Dallas City Council members pushed for Broadnax resignation last month citing his tense relationship with Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, according to reporting from the Texas Tribune.

I think collectively the decision that they wanted to go and have a reset, and go in a different direction with a new manager that could coalesce and work with them in a manner similar to when they hired me, Broadnax told Austin reporters Thursday. I think, gotta respect that and so I think my time there has been good.

Prior to landing in Dallas, he was the city manager of Tacoma, Washington. According to KXANs NBC affiliate in Dallas, which vetted Broadnax prior to his start there, he received high praise from the City of Tacoma prior to his leaving.

How we got here

Interim City Manager Jesus Garza was brought out of retirement by the council after it voted to fire former City Manager Spencer Cronk. Garza did not apply to remain in the position long-term, according to documents KXAN received of the full list of applicants.

Cronk faced increased scrutiny last year following prolonged power outages from an ice storm in early February and negotiation with the Austin Police Association on a four-year deal in principle, which ultimately fell through.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
This year scientists counted just 11 grassland earless dragons in the wild, a marked decline (DAVID GRAY)

Australia's grassland earless dragon is no bigger than a pinkie when it emerges from its shell, but the little lizard faces an enormous challenge in the years ahead: avoiding extinction.

As recently as 2019, scientists in Canberra counted hundreds of grassland earless dragons in the wild. This year, they found 11.

In other areas of the country, the lizard has not been seen for three decades.

The earless dragon -- which is light brown and has long white stripes down its body -- measures about 15 centimetres (the size of a US$1 bill) when fully grown.

It lacks an external ear opening and functional eardrum, hence the name.

Australia has four species of earless dragons. Three are critically endangered, the highest level of risk, while the fourth is endangered.

The critically endangered dragons will likely be extinct in the next 20 years without conservation efforts.

"If we properly manage their conservation, we can bring them back," said University of Canberra Professor Bernd Gruber, who is working to do just that.

- Breeding programmes -

Australia is home to thousands of unique animals, including 1,130 species of reptiles that are found nowhere else in the world.

Climate change, invasive plants and animals, and habitat destruction -- such as the 2019 bushfires, which burned more than 19 million hectares (46 million acres) -- have pushed Australia's native species to the brink.

In the past 300 years, about 100 of Australia's unique flora and fauna species have been wiped off the planet.

To save the earless dragons there are several breeding programmes under way across Australia, including a bio-secure facility in Canberra's bushlands, which Gruber is overseeing.

On shelves are dozens of tanks that house the lizards - one to each container - with a burrow, grass and heat lamps to keep them warm.

The biggest problem is matchmaking, with the territorial female lizards preferring to choose their mates.

This means that scientists must introduce different male lizards to the female until she approves.

If that was not hard enough, scientists must also use genetic analysis to determine which lizards are compatible together and ensure genetic diversity in their offspring.

At any one time, the breeding programmes around Australia can have up to 90 earless dragons, which will eventually be released back into the wild.

At the moment, Gruber is looking after more than 20 small lizards that have just hatched. Scientists almost missed the tiny eggs until three weeks ago.

"There is a sense of hope looking over them," he told AFP.

- Habitat destruction -

Despite the efforts of scientists, the lizards are contending with a shrinking habitat and a changing climate.

Australian Conservation Foundation campaigner Peta Bulling said the lizards only live in temperate grasslands, most of which have been destroyed by urban development.

Only 0.5 percent of grasslands present at the time of European colonisation still exist.

Without the lizards, Australia's alpine grasslands could look vastly different.

"We don't understand everything the grassland earless dragons do in the ecosystem, but we can make guesses they play an important role in managing invertebrate populations. They live in burrows in the soil, so they are probably aerating the soil in different ways too," she told AFP.

Bulling said that while it was important to bring the lizard back, it was also vital to protect their habitats, without which the newly saved lizards would have nowhere to live.

"They are highly specialised to live in their habitat but they will not adapt quickly to change," she said.

Last year, scientists rediscovered a small number of another kind of earless dragons after 50 years in an area that is being kept secret for conservation reasons.

Resources are being poured into understanding just how big that population is and what can be done to protect it.

lec/arb/ssy/smw
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  Avelo Airlines on Wednesday announced its first route out of Lakeland Linder International Airport (LAL), which will begin in June.

Passengers will be able to fly from LAL to Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) in Connecticut starting June 13, according to the airline. Introductory fares start at $72 one-way.

Breeze Airways adds 2 more nonstop routes from Tampa

The flight will be available on Thursdays and Sundays on a Boeing 737, according to the airline.

Avelo is the first airline to offer passenger service out of LAL in more than 10 years.

Getting to Southern Connecticut  the gateway to New England and New York  is now easier than ever, Avelo Airlines Chairman and CEO Andrew Levy said in a statement. This exclusive nonstop service will also make exploring Central Florida  and all Lakeland has to offer  a fast and seamless journey for Connecticut visitors.

Many travelers in Polk County have to either travel to Tampa International Airport or Orlando International Airport to catch a flight. Lakeland City leaders told 8 On Your Side that 2,200 people in Polk County travel to and from other airports daily.

St. Pete airport gets $6 million in new funding

As the fastest-growing county in the nation, the number of people who have to make a long commute for a flight is likely to soar.

This service from Lakeland opens up a world of increasing possibilities for our regional citizens, Lakeland Mayor Bill Mutz said in a statement. We anticipate a thriving partnership with Avelo Airlines, providing many adventures ahead.

The advantage to coming to the Lakeland International Airport will be convenience. All of us know the unpredictability of the I-4 corridor, so being able to know you can come here, you can get to your flight relatively quickly, your family can even drop you off, that will be a huge win for a lot of consumers, said Katie Worthington Decker with the Economic Council.

Tickets can be purchased on the Avelo Airlines website.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
In politics, as in life, the facts matter, and too often the media is all too happy to take the Democrats' side of the story without checking the facts.

I was disappointed to see the Portsmouth Herald publish an in-depth article about IVF on March 19th, which contained misleading reporting about my record from my Democratic opposition, without giving me the chance to respond. So, accordingly, I feel it is important to explain what the facts are for voters so they have all the information as they are evaluating my stance on this issue. As they say, there are two sides to every story.

Kelly Ayotte

First, let me be clear that I fully support IVF and will always protect access to it for New Hampshire families.

Second, it is wrong to characterize the bill I cosponsored in 2011, or the vote I took on an amendment to the Affordable Care Act in 2012, as limiting IVF access for women and families. Neither piece of legislation mentioned IVF, and in fact, neither did the Portsmouth Herald mention IVF when they covered the legislative debate at the time.

The fact is that the Democrats are trying to rewrite my record a decade after the fact to scare women into thinking I am not supportive of IVF, when that couldnt be further from the truth. What my opponents conveniently left out in their attacks, and dont want to talk about, is that the Affordable Care Act does not mandate insurance coverage for IVF at all.

Yes, you read that right. What the Democrats are not telling you is that Obamacare does not, and never has, mandated that insurance companies cover IVF. This is why New Hampshire rightly took the step of mandating coverage for fertility treatments on state plans  a move I fully support.

The pieces of legislation that I supported, that are being misrepresented more than a decade after the fact, were about protecting the right to religious freedom enshrined in the First Amendment to the Constitution and protected by federal law, which was under attack by the Obama administration to force certain organizations to pay for coverage that violated their religious beliefs. In fact, in 2014 this issue went to the United States Supreme Court, and they ruled against the Obama administration. Unlike the Democrats, I will always put the Constitution first.

I think it was quite irresponsible to write a piece about my record that was designed to scare women who have had IVF and the families that intend to use IVF without my ability to address these charges prior to publication.

Thats enough about the past, lets talk about the future. As governor, I will preserve access to IVF and fight any restrictions in New Hampshire. But the conversation must be bigger than this  we need to be talking about how to lower the outrageous cost of IVF. That starts with taking on the health insurance companies and medical industry wherever possible to break down barriers that make it harder for parents to access IVF.

It saddens me that this is normal in the political discussion today, for one side to use the media to attack the other, rather than a genuine policy discussion about how we help women and families.

So next time you read something as slanted as the coverage on this issue has been, be sure to check the facts and ask the hard questions. Too often theres more to the story than the media would have you to believe.

Kelly Ayotte is a former U.S. Senator and Republican candidate for New Hampshire governor.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Ayotte: Let me set the record straight on IVF
In January, the TV series Cristobal Balenciaga premiered, a story inspired by the life of the Spanish designer during his time in Paris, beginning when he arrived in 1937. The plot seeks to explore his personality and what drove him, highlighting key moments in his personal and professional life, such as his relationship with other illustrious designers, the creation of the gazar fabric, the design of Queen Fabiolas wedding dress, and the creation of Air Frances stewardess uniforms.

Though fashion is present throughout the shows six episodes, the couturierss creations are placed in the background, focusing instead on personal experiences with family, friends, colleagues and employees.

However, several scenes in the first episode present the influences that would come to mark his work. Balenciaga is seen consulting Jose Ortiz-Echagues book Espana. Tipos y Trajes (Spain: people and clothes) , which details the countrys popular regional dress and costumes. According to written works on the Basque designer, much of his inspiration is derived from Spanish culture, painting and tradition.

For example, his 1947 bolero in blue velvet with black felt decoration and beadwork is an interpretation of bullfighters extravagant clothing (known in Spanish as traje de luces, literally suit of lights), characterised by chromatic contrast and rich embroidery and trimmings. In a similar vein, his 1949 dress with black stripes on a red background bears a striking resemblance to the traditional womens clothing of the Pas valley, in Cantabria.

These influences were also reflected in the 2019 exhibition Balenciaga and Spanish painting, where pieces by the Basque designer were presented alongside a selection of works by Spanish painters such as Velazquez, Murillo, El Greco and Francisco de Goya.

These included a silk shantung wedding dress embroidered with silver thread (1957) accompanied by the painting Isabel de Borbon, wife of Felipe IV by Rodrigo de Villandrando (circa 1620). Also present was an evening ensemble of cotton tulle dress, metal thread embroidery on rayon satin, and silk taffeta overskirt (circa 1951), presented alongside the painting St. Elizabeth of Portugal by Francisco de Zurbaran (circa 1635).

Evening ensemble of cotton tulle dress, metal thread embroidery on rayon satin, and silk taffeta overskirt, designed by Balenciaga, and St. Isabella of Portugal by Francisco de Zurbaran. Museo Nacional Thyssen.Bornemisza

The subtle similarities between Balenciagas innovative garments and their historical influences showcase a non-literal interpretation of traditional forms. This re-imagination would not have been possible without the influence of the nascent abstract art movement that grew alongside Balenciagas career.

New artistic directions

In the early to mid 1900s, abstract currents were emerging in painting, moving the seat of art from its traditional home of Paris to New York. This was not reflected in the fashion world, as the French capital remained firmly established as the epicentre of haute couture.

In contrast to the avant-garde movements of the early 20th century, which expressed new values for a new world, the abstract currents of 1940s and 1950s art opened the doors to new forms of individual expression.

The chromatic compositions of artists like Ad Reinhardt and Mark Rohtko offered a whole new field of experimentation, with results that were highly relevant to fashion.

In Rothkos case, his apparently simple works achieved complexity through the superimposition of colour fields. They are known for their careful compositional balance, achieving visual harmony with a select palette of colours, such as intense reds and deep blues, occasionally offset by softer tones.

Reinhardt, on the other hand, was known for his extreme abstraction and minimalist approach. He did away with all non-essential elements, and his works subtle impact was rooted in an extremely limited colour palette: black and dark tones predominate, allowing his geometric and rigorous compositions to generate a sense of order and structure.

Left, model 125 from Balenciagas 1965 summer collection. Right, Abstract Painting, Blue, by Ad Reinhardt, 1953.. Cristobal Balenciaga Museoa/Whitney Museum of American Art

Abstract arts influence on Balenciaga

Some of these characteristics of colour, composition, precision and formal synthesis can be seen in Balenciagas work. Examples include the orange wool crepe day dress (1968), the black wool sack dress (autumn-winter collection, 1957) or model 125 from the 1965 summer collection, made at the Maison Balenciaga in Paris.

Abstract art also profoundly impacted mid-twentieth-century architecture, creating a new visual language of sculptural form. This is evident in the works of architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, Oscar Niemeyer and Felix Candela, among many others.

These works were characterised by an honest, unadorned use of materials that showed off their natural texture and colour. At the same time, they featured solid, smooth geometric forms. These clear lines and defined volumes dispensed with the ornamentation and compositions of past constructions, opting instead for a sculptural aesthetic rooted in abstract forms.

Architecture undoubtedly influenced Balenciagas innovative use of shape and volume. During the second half of the 1960s, several evening and bridal dresses designed by Balenciaga featured the warped geometric shapes and sculptural lines typical of the periods buildings. Other dresses, such as the balloon dress (1958) and the summer collection dress (1959), were characterised by generous volumes and clean lines.

Left, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Right, a model wearing a dress from Balenciagas 1958 collection. Ajay Suresh en Wikimedia Commons/ Tom Kublin en Archives Balenciaga, Paris

An all-encompassing work of art

After the second world war, Balenciagas output was marked by a significant shift, as he offered an image for the woman of the time that was far removed from traditional aesthetics. This ran contrary to Christian Diors 1947 New Look, which placed a renewed focus on the feminine silhouette as an antidote to wartime austerity.

In the wake of the war, the Basque couturier began to rewrite the rules of fashion with his innovative silhouettes  the barrel line, babydoll, sack, balloon and peacock tail dresses, to name a few. These creations stemmed from a commanding control of geometry. They stood out for their formal purity, and were backed by profoundly technical craftsmanship. The result was an extraordinary sculptural sensibility built on a foundation of abstract art.

Alberta Tiburzi wearing the envelope dress by Cristobal Balenciaga, Harpers Bazaar, June 1967. Victoria & Albert/ Hiro 1967

Therefore, it could be said that Balenciaga not only offered an interpretation of the past, but also a look at tradition through contemporary eyes. Abstraction is used in his work as both a lens for reinterpreting Spanish culture, and as an artistic language shared with the art and the architecture of the time.

While this artistic context is often overlooked in writings and research on the designer, it is essential to understanding his excellence, not only as a fashion designer, but also as a true artistic genius of his time.

Perhaps nobody expressed this better than Balenciaga himself: A couturier must be an architect for plans, a sculptor for shapes, an artist for colour, a musician for harmony and a philosopher for the sense of proportion.

Este articulo fue publicado originalmente en The Conversation, un sitio de noticias sin fines de lucro dedicado a compartir ideas de expertos academicos.

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Maria Villanueva Fernandez no recibe salario, ni ejerce labores de consultoria, ni posee acciones, ni recibe financiacion de ninguna compania u organizacion que pueda obtener beneficio de este articulo, y ha declarado carecer de vinculos relevantes mas alla del cargo academico citado.
(NEXSTAR)  When a cargo ship smashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, a group of construction workers were on the span. The search for the missing turned to a recovery mission Wednesday, then a salvage operation, as officials said two bodies were recovered and four others were presumed dead.

A group of workers filling potholes overnight were sent into the Patapsco River when the bridge collapsed. Two people were rescued Tuesday, but six more were reported missing.

On Wednesday evening, Maryland State Police announced a red pickup truck was found among the underwater wreckage. Inside were two of the trapped victims: 35-year-old Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, from Mexico, and 26-year-old Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, from Guatemala. Four others were still missing and presumed dead.

At this point, based upon the conditions, were now moving from a recovery mode to a salvage operation. Because of the super-structure surrounding what we believe are the vehicles, and the amount of concrete and debris, divers are no longer able to safely navigate or operate around that, Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent of Maryland State Police, said.

Two of the victims were Mexican nationals, two were from Guatemala, one was from El Salvador and one was from Honduras. All were employed by Brawner Builders.

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 38, was identified as one of the victims by his brother. He was the youngest of eight siblings from Azacualpa, a rural mountainous area in northwestern Honduras.

This 2018 photo courtesy of Martin Suazo Sandoval shows Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval after attending a religious service in Baltimore, Maryland. Maynor is one of the missing people who was part of a maintenance crew on the bridge in Baltimore that collapsed, according to his brother Martin. (Martin Suazo Sandoval via AP)

Baltimores Key Bridge collapse: What we know amid investigation

He had worked as an industrial technician in Honduras, repairing equipment in the large assembly plants, but the pay was too low to get ahead, one of his brothers, Martin Suazo Sandoval, said. Maynor entered the United States illegally and settled in Maryland.

He always dreamed of having his own business, his brother said.

Things had been going well for him until the collapse. He was moving through the steps to get legal residency and planned to return to Honduras this year to complete the process, his brother said. He had a wife and two children, ages 17 and 5.

El Salvadors foreign minister, Alexandra Hill Tinoco, identified one Salvadoran citizen, Miguel Luna, as among the missing workers. Nonprofit CASA described him as a father of three who lived in Maryland for 19 years.

Buttigieg: No timeline yet on Baltimore port reopening

Miguel Luna, from El Salvador, left at 6:30 p.m. Monday evening for work and since, has not come home, the nonprofit, which advocates for workers, said in a statement.

Guatemalas Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed two citizens were missing, but didnt give their names. In a statement to CNN, the two workers were identified as a 26-year-old from San Luis, Peten and a 35-year-old from Camotan, Chiquimula.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said he wouldnt share the names of the two missing men from his country in order to protect the families privacy.

Lives were likely saved by police officers quick action when a mayday call came in from the cargo ship, which had just lost power. Police managed to close bridge traffic seconds before the ship slammed into bridge supports. One officer intended to drive onto the bridge and alert the construction crew once backup arrived to block traffic, but there wasnt enough time.

Some vehicles that had been on the span seemed to escape with just seconds before it collapsed, and police believe the construction workers and two people who were rescued were the only people who went into the water.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Investigators have secured the data recorder from the cargo ship that crashed into a bridge in Baltimore, triggering its collapse, National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy said Wednesday.

Speaking in a CNN interview, Homendy said investigators had boarded the Dali vessel on Tuesday evening hours after it brought down the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Right now we do have the data recorder, which is essentially the black box, she said. Weve sent that back to our lab to evaluate and begin to develop a timeline of events that led up to the strike on the bridge, and we hope to have that information to share with the public later today.

Construction Crew Caught on Collapsing Baltimore Bridge Presumed Dead

Homendy added that a team of 24 investigators were at the scene Wednesday. She said their focus is collecting what would disappear once this is cleaned up. Interviews will also be conducted throughout the day with people who were on board the ship, Homendy said. Well also interview fire and rescue and people that were on the bridge as well.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott later told the network that divers are set to resume their dangerous recovery operation for six construction workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed. The Coast Guard said Tuesday evening that the men are presumed dead owing to the frigid water temperature in the Patapsco River and the length of time for which they had been missing.

The workers were fixing potholes on the bridges roadway when one of its support columns was hit by the ship, state officials said. The victims worked for Brawner Builders, a bridge maintenance contracting firm operated by the state, a company executive confirmed, according to The New York Times.

Jesus Campos, a Brawner employee, told The Baltimore Banner that the missing men are from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico. He said theyd all come to Baltimore in the hope of giving their families in their home countries better lives. The men were in their 30s and 40s, Campos added, and had spouses and children.

One of the men from El Salvador has been identified by his wife as 49-year-old Miguel Luna, ,while the Honduran man was named as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova, according to the Associated Press. Diplomats from Guatemala and Mexico have also confirmed that their nationals were among the missing.

Two workers were rescued from the water shortly after the 1.6 mile bridgewhich is named after the author of The Star-Spangled Bannercollapsed early Tuesday. Others were likely saved thanks to the quick actions of law enforcement, who were able to stop vehicle traffic over the bridge within about 90 seconds of being warned that the giant vessel had lost its ability to steer as it approached the structure.

Questions are being asked about what could have caused the Singapore-flagged Dali to lose power in the minutes before the crash, with investigators reportedly set to consider the possibility that contaminated fuel could have been involved.

Asked about the reports concerning dirty fuel, NTSB Chair Homendy said Wednesday she did not want to speculate. We dont speculate at the NTSB, she said. Right now, its looking at all the evidence as we collect it to see where we need to go in the investigation.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Six construction workers are presumed dead after a massive cargo ship slammed into Baltimores Francis Scott Key bridge early Tuesday morning, causing it to collapse.

The MV Dali container ship struck one of the bridges main support columns around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, prompting the entire main span and three adjacent spans to fall into the Patapsco River.

The Coast Guard ended its 18-hour search-and-rescue mission Tuesday night for the six missing construction workers who were repairing potholes on the bridge at the time of its collapse.

Two additional workers were rescued from the water, one with severe injuries and the other without any injuries, Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace said.

Heres what we know about the victims.

The victims were employees of Brawner Builders

The Associated Press reported that Brawner Builders Executive Vice President Jeffrey Pritzker said Tuesday that six of its workers who were working on the bridge were presumed dead, with another injured.

This was so completely unforeseen, Pritzker said. We dont know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers. But we never foresaw that the bridge would collapse.

Jesus Campos, an employee of the company, said all the workers on the bridge had families and were between the ages of 45 and 60.

When he told me that, they came to mind, and I was praying to God that nothing had happened to them, Campos, speaking in Spanish, told the AP.

It is so hard for me to describe. I know that a month ago I was there, and I know what it feels like when the trailers pass. Imagine knowing that it is falling. It is so hard, one would not know what to do, Campos said.

The Hill has reached out to the company for more information.

The 6 victims are from 4 different countries

The victims are from Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador, according to diplomats and local nonprofit organizations.

The Embassy of Mexico in the U.S. said in a statement that the six workers missing include Mexican, Guatemalan and Salvadoran people.

Casa  a nonprofit that works with immigrant families  identified Miguel Luna as one of the victims in the bridge collapse. The group said Luna, a father of three, was from El Salvador and has called Maryland his home for 19 years.

Sadly, we discovered that one of the construction workers involved was a longtime member of our CASA family, adding an even deeper layer of sorrow to this already grievous situation, Casa Executive Director Gustavo Torres said in a statement.

Maryland governor says he has spoken with the families

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said he has spoken with the families of the victims and announced Tuesday that the state flag has been lowered to half-staff.

The hearts of every Marylander are with the families of those affected by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. We have spoken to the families, prayed with them, and assured them that our state will mobilize every resource to bring them closure, he wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

The Associated Press contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A major bridge in the US city of Baltimore collapsed March 26, 2024, prompting conspiracy theorists to speculate that the disaster resulted from an intentional attack. This is unfounded; local, state and federal officials quickly said there was no evidence of terrorism, and the managers of the Singapore-flagged Dali have said the container ship lost power before colliding with the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

"Lights go off and it deliberately steers towards the bridge support," says influencer Andrew Tate in a March 26 post with tens of thousands of interactions on X, formerly Twitter.

"Foreign agents of the USA attack digital infrastructures. Nothing is safe."

InfoWars founder Alex Jones, who was found liable in multiple defamation lawsuits for claiming the 2012 Sandy Hook elementary school mass shooting was a hoax, reposted the allegation.

"Looks deliberate to me," he said. "A cyber-attack is probable. WW3 has already started."

Screenshot from X taken March 27, 2024

Screenshot from X taken March 27, 2024

Users across X and other platforms promoted similar theories hours after a container ship struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge, sending people plunging into the US city's frigid harbor.

"Is this an intentional attack or an accident?" says Republican US Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene in a March 26 post on X.

Some posts blame the bridge collapse on the Islamic State group or corporate diversity initiatives that have become a flashpoint ahead of the US presidential election, while suggestions of a "false flag" or "deep state" operation populated the most conspiratorial pages.

Others link the tragedy to the United States' abstention in a UN Security Council vote calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza war.

"Did Israel just hit the US over not using the Veto power yesterday??" says one X post with thousands of interactions.

Screenshot from X taken March 27, 2024

Screenshot from X taken March 27, 2024

Divers and other specialist crews have been combing the Patapsco River in an effort to locate six missing members of a construction crew, who are now presumed dead and who had been repairing potholes on the bridge when it collapsed. Two other people on the team were rescued from the frigid waters.

There was no immediate confirmation of the cause of the collapse -- but Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said there was no indication of terrorism.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore echoed that during a March 26 press conference, saying officials had not seen "any credible evidence of a terrorist attack" (archived here). Bill DelBagno, special agent in charge of the FBI's Baltimore field office, also said there was no evidence of an attack.

"Everything so far indicates that this was a terrible accident," President Joe Biden said during a separate briefing later that day (archived here). "At this time, we have no other indication, no other reason to believe there was any intentional act here."

What caused the crash ?

The Dali issued a Mayday call before it rammed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, warning that it had lost power and propulsion. Within about 90 seconds of the warning, police responded that they had stopped traffic, preventing vehicles from driving onto the bridge and potentially saving lives.

It is not yet clear what caused the power outage, but this left the boat at the mercy of the wind and current.

CCTV footage shows the ship going dark twice in the minutes before the crash. A puff of smoke can also be seen before the collision.

Singapore's Maritime and Port Authority said the Dali had dropped its anchors prior to the crash as part of its emergency procedures. Doing so can help slow the passage of an out-of-control ship.

Citing Synergy Marine Group, the managers of the Dali, the authority said the ship "was unable to maintain the desired heading and collided with the Francis Scott Key bridge."

Satellite image showing the trajectory of the Dali cargo ship that struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the US city of Baltimore on March 26 Nalini LEPETIT-CHELLA Laurence SAUBADU AFP

The authority said the vessel had passed two overseas inspections in 2023.

Some experts suggested the bridge's main support structures may not have been properly protected to withstand a collision involving such a large vessel.

"The significant momentum of this massive cargo vessel, especially when laden with cargo, would have been considerable upon impact," said Toby Mottram, a structural engineering professor at the University of Warwick (archived here).

"It's evident that the pier couldn't withstand the impact energy."

Graphic showing the structure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the US city of Baltimore, where the container ship Dali struck one of its pillars, and the section that collapsed (in red) Sylvie HUSSON Paz PIZARRO AFP

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the exact cause of the crash (archived here).

AFP has covered other misinformation about the Baltimore bridge collapse here and here.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. The COP29 to be held in Azerbaijan in November this year, should make bold decisions on emission reduction commitments, said Simon Stiell, executive secretary of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC), Trend reports via the International Gas Union (IGU).

It is easy to announce targets, with the assumption that either it will all be cheap, or that consumers and industry will pay whatever it takes to achieve the targets, he noted.

Stiell said COP29 will be an enabling COP, focused on drastically scaling-up climate finance  finance is the make-or-break factor in the worlds climate fight.

Charles Ellinas, nonresident senior fellow with the Atlantic Council's Global Energy Center, said in his analysis published by IGU that the achievements of COPs so far, especially COP28, will not mean much unless they are fully implemented through tangible actions.

Key to that is to put in place the funding levels and arrangements required to deliver them.

Energy transition, climate adaptation, loss and damage, and disaster relief in general, require huge funding and investments -running into trillions of dollars annually  to turn ambition into action. Implementation and funding should be the key goals of COP29, he added.

The expert went on to add that Multilateral development banks (MDBs) and the private sector need to collectively raise $2.4 trillion annually for climate funding.

But in order to deliver this, MDBs need to be reformed to provide more concessional funding and grants to developing countries, rather than debt-finance. Involvement of the private sector would require getting access to public capital markets and making sure public funds are deployable for sustainable projects. In addition, countries will need to update and improve targets and actions in their next round of NDCs, due in 2025, that turn COP decisions into reality. Azerbaijans vision for COP29 is: technology transfer, water and peace. It is also sending the message that the success of COP28 shows it makes sense to have fossil fuel exporters inside the COP tent, noted Ellinas.

Azerbaijan will host the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) this November. This decision was reached during the COP28 plenary meeting held in Dubai on December 11, 2023. In less than two weeks, Baku is poised to become the epicenter of global climate discussions, welcoming an estimated 70,000 to 80,000 foreign delegates.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, established during the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992, aims to avert perilous human interference with the climate system. COP, an acronym for Conference of Parties, signifies the highest legislative authority overseeing the Convention's implementation. Currently, 198 nations are party to the Convention. By default, COP sessions are convened annually unless otherwise decided by the participating parties. The inaugural COP convened in March 1995 in Berlin, with its secretariat headquartered in Bonn.

As Azerbaijan prepares to host COP29, it assumes a pivotal role in advancing global efforts to address climate change, underscoring the urgency and importance of international cooperation in combating environmental challenges.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Two of the six men presumed dead in the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore were remembered by loved ones as devoted husbands, fathers and workers who were simply trying to improve their lot in life.

He gave us strength for everything, said Norma Suazo, sister of Maynor Suazo, a member of the construction crew that had been repairing potholes on the bridge when it was struck by a container ship early Tuesday.

He fought day after day for our family to get ahead. He looked for a way to make a living, Norma told Noticias Telemundo on Wednesday in a Spanish-language interview.

Suazos brother Fredy described him as good-natured, smiley, the type of person that always fought for the well-being of the family.

You come to this country to accomplish your dreams, and sometimes that dream doesnt get fulfilled, Fredy Suazo added. And for a tragedy like this to happen to us, can you imagine?

Maynor, who was from Honduras, leaves behind an 18-year-old son and a 6-year-old daughter, according to his brother Carlos Alexis Suazo Sandoval.

Authorities confirmed Tuesday night that six workers are presumed dead in the bridge collapse. Officials on Wednesday confirmed the names of two of the workers.

The bodies of Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, were recovered from a submerged pickup truck Wednesday morning, said Col. Ronald L. Butler Jr., a superintendent with the Maryland State Police. Fuentes was originally from Mexico and lived in Baltimore. Cabrera was from Guatemala and lived in Dundalk, Maryland.

Butler said the search-and-recovery mission has become one of salvage. It is no longer safe for divers, who had returned to the frigid water to scour for bodies Wednesday morning, to search around the wreckage, he said.

Maria del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo that her husband, Miguel Luna, was one of the workers on the Key Bridge when it tumbled into the Patapsco River. Castellon, also interviewed in Spanish, said she was desperate for news.

They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now they cant give us information, she said, referring to officials, adding that she and her family were devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we dont know if theyve rescued them yet. Were just waiting to hear any news.

CASA, a nonprofit organization that provides services to immigrants in the Baltimore area, confirmed that Luna was from El Salvador and had been living in Maryland for more than 19 years. Gustavo Torres, CASAs executive director, described Luna as a longtime member of our CASA family, adding an even deeper layer of sorrow to this already grievous situation.

At least two of the men presumed dead were from Mexico. In a statement, Mexicos secretary of foreign affairs said his government plans to provide assistance to their family members, as well as that of a Mexican national who was rescued alive from the wreckage. The other men were originally from Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala, Butler said.

In a tweet Wednesday morning, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said: We have spoken to the families, prayed with them, and assured them that our state will mobilize every resource to bring them closure.

Suazos brother-in-law told Telemundo that Suazo leaves a very great legacy.

He has been a great example for many people, he said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Shortly after a cargo ship crashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace attempted to blame President Joe Bidens infrastructure policies for the bridges catastrophic collapse.

"Look at the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill that was done a couple of years ago that the Left hails as this massive success, the South Carolina representative told Newsmax. It was mostly a Green New Deal. She pointed out that only a portion of the money allocated by Bidens infrastructure bill$110 billion out of $1.2 trillion totalwent towards roads and bridges like the one in Baltimore. We're not spending it on roads and bridges, Mace said.

Her comments highlight how some Republicans have seized the Baltimore tragedy, which has left six people presumed dead, to criticize what they perceive as misplaced priorities in the Biden Administration's infrastructure agenda. The response to the collapse is quickly becoming a critical test for Biden, who has championed infrastructure improvements as a cornerstone of his presidency and aims to convince voters ahead of the November election that hes the best equipped to address infrastructure challenges.

Fairly or unfairly, the Biden Administration will be judged by how quickly it can line up funding and how quickly it can rebuild the bridge, says Andy Winkler, an expert in disaster and infrastructure issues at the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Read More: 6 Construction Workers Presumed Dead. Baltimore Bridge Collapse: What to Know

As recovery operations continue, Biden announced on Tuesday that he directed his team to "move heaven and earth" to reopen the port and rebuild Baltimore's Francis Scott Key bridge "as soon as humanly possible. The President also said its his intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge and he expects Congress to support him.

Moving quickly to rebuild the bridge could help Biden politically and give him another opportunity to illustrate the urgency of his infrastructure agenda while he campaigns for re-election, says Len Foxwell, a Baltimore-based Democratic strategist. As terrible as this is, it gives the President and his team a chance to use this as a cautionary tale of what can happen to jobs, supply chains, and transportation mobility if something were to happen to our network of highways, bridges and overpasses, he says. The world is going to be watching to see how long it takes for us to rebuild and to repair. And to the extent that this Administration can demonstrate the ability to get that process started with alacrity, they will benefit politically.

Over the last two years, Biden and key members of his Administration have been trying to sell voters on the benefits of his infrastructure policies, traveling the country to tout his passage of the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure billwhich provides tens of billions of dollars to projects including rail tunnels under the Hudson River, Everglades restoration, and bridge replacements. The White House says its the largest investment in repairing and reconstructing bridges since the interstate highway system was fully constructed in 1992.

But convincing voters that these infrastructure investments have directly improved their lives could be a challenge for the Biden campaign. A year after the infrastructure bill passed, polls showed that most Americans had no idea Congress even passed the legislationand now a massive and fatal bridge collapse has seized national headlines.

Still, Foxwell doesnt think the outcome of the 2024 election will be decided on the issue of infrastructure unless theres a demonstrable economic impact in the coming months, such as widespread job loss or increased grocery prices because of the collapsed bridge. I dont think its enough to influence the political behavior of voters, he says, but it gives Biden a renewed, perhaps fresh, opportunity to reinforce to the electorate why infrastructure was so important in the first place.

While initial investigations suggest the bridge was fully up to code, the impact of the collapse extends beyond immediate safety concerns. The port plays a pivotal role in vehicle shipping and employs over 15,000 workers, with ripple effects expected to be felt in neighboring states like Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state for Biden. Some 850,000 vehicles go through the port annually and more than 30,000 vehicles cross the bridge daily. A prolonged bridge closure, Winkler says, would have far-reaching consequences for the regional economy and local businesses.

I think in moments like this people want to see presidential leadership, but in our federal system incidents like this require more of a partnership between local state and federal officials, Winkler says. He expects the cleanup could take weeks, while it may take several years to fully rebuild the bridge. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg acknowledged Tuesday that rebuilding will not be quick and will not be inexpensive.

Sawyer Hackett, a Democratic strategist, dismissed attempts from Republicans to tie the bridge collapse to broader infrastructure debates. The idea that Joe Biden is personally responsible for a 95,000-ton ship colliding with a bridge is ridiculous to anyone not living in a rightwing media bubble, he says. This has nothing to do with infrastructure.

Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com.
Questions around the Baltimore bridges collapse could soon be answered as the vessels black box has been recovered. Meanwhile, two missing members of the construction crew who were working on the bridge and went missing after its collapse have been identified.

The Dali container vessel rammed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge at 1.30am on 26 March after it lost power, causing the bridge to dramatically collapse.

Mystery surrounds the cause of the incident, which threw members of a construction crew, who were refilling potholes on the bridge at the time, into the Patapsco River, authorities said.

But now details of the cause of the crash could become available.

The National Transportation Safety Board retrieved the Dalis voyage data recorder, also known as its black box, the agencys Jennifer Homendy said on Wednesday. It can provide a timeline of the run-up to the collision, give positioning information, and insights into what caused the power loss, she said.

Ms Homendy said they could have that information as early as Wednesday afternoon.

Workers continue to investigate and search for victims at the scene (Getty)

Officials have labelled the crash an accident, saying no signs point toward terrorism.

While two survivors were pulled from the river hours after the dramatic collapse, six others were reported still missing.

Rescuers suspended their nearly full-day search for the missing individuals on Tuesday evening; the six missing men were presumed dead.

The six construction workers were all employed by contractor Brawner Builders, authorities said. Brawner Builders employee Jesus Campos told The Baltimore Banner that the missing individuals are all men in their thirties and forties, and all have spouses and children. They are all hardworking, humble men, he added.

Two of the missing men have since been identified: Miguel Luna, 49, and Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 38.

Miguel Luna, a father of three, is reported to have been lost when the bridge collapsed (Supplied)

Their relatives have started speaking out.

Mr Luna, a father of three, is from El Salvador and had been living in Maryland for just under 20 years, according to a statement from the non-profit organisation Casa.

His wife, Maria del Carmen Castellon told Telemundo 44 that she and other family members of the missing men were able to gain access to the restricted disaster zone while they anxiously awaited news of their loved ones.

They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they cant give us information, she said. [We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken, because we dont know if theyve rescued them yet. Were just waiting to hear any news.

One of Mr Lunas children, Marvin Luna, told The Washington Post that he knew his father was working on the Key Bridge overnight but did not know it had collapsed until one of his friends called him up and said: The bridge is gone.

Marvin then called his fathers phone, but there was no reply.

The Honduran deputy foreign affairs minister also confirmed to the Associated Press that Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval was among the missing men.

Mr Sandoval is from Honduras, and had been living in the United States for over 18 years. He is married and has two children.

His brother Martin, who lives in Honduras, told CNN that family members in Baltimore called him to tell him that his brother was missing.

Mr Sandoval was an entrepreneur who had started his own maintenance company, going to the US in search of a better life, his brother said.

Although Martin said that his family was holding on to hope that his brother could be found alive, they now just hope that his body could be recovered so they can give him a proper goodbye.

In an interview with Honduran newspaper La Prensa, Mr Suazo said in Spanish, What were living is inexplicable. We wish it wasnt real. Were dismayed, especially the agony of not knowing when theyre going to find the body.

The Honduran Embassy told Mr Suazo that it would work with him to bring his brothers body back to the country for funeral arrangements.

Col Roland Butler Jr of Maryland State Police said at a Wednesday evening press conference that two victims had been trapped inside a red pickup truck on Wednesday morning.

They were identified as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26.

Mr Butler didnt specify where the two were from, but said that those presumed deceased are from Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, from Honduras, had come to America in search of a better life (Supplied)

The four others missing have yet to be identified. Two of those are from Guatemala, the countrys ministry of foreign affairs said in a Tuesday statement, adding that one is believed to be 26-year-old from San Luis, Peten and the other is believed to be a 35-year-old from Camotan, Chiquimula.

The ministry did not name the two unaccounted-for workers, but told The Independent in a statement that it had been in contact with local authorities and the missing mens families.

The Mexican Embassy also posted on Twitter/X saying that Mexican citizens were among the workers who fell into the river. The embassy did not give their names or say how many of the workers were from Mexico.

Mr Butler said on Wednesday evening that agencies were transitioning from a recovery mode to salvage recovery operation.

Transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg said at a Wednesday press conference that he grieved the loss of the six workers.

He added that if not for the responders efforts, the mayday call, the maintenance closure that was already underway and the time of day of the impact, the loss of life might have been in the dozens.

He said that he has received clear direction from the president to tear down any barriers, bureaucratic as well as financial that could get in the way of rebuilding the bridge as quickly as possible.

Joe Biden on Tuesday said he intends to rebuild the bridge entirely through the use of federal funds.
(The Hill)  The presumed deaths of six road workers on the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore are shining a spotlight on the risks associated with essential jobs, especially for low-income and immigrant workers.

A construction crew of eight men was on-site early Tuesday on an overnight shift to conduct road surface repairs when the Dali, a nearly 1,000-foot-long container vessel, struck the bridge.

The collapse was so fast the workers had no time to even attempt an evacuation.

Tragically six people did lose their lives and a seventh was badly injured. These were workers who went out to work on a night shift repairing the road surface while most of us slept, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said at a White House briefing Wednesday.

While the extraordinary circumstances of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse were unpredictable, road work zones have become more dangerous over the years.

According to the National Workzone Safety Information Clearinghouse, there were 874 fatal crashes in work zones in 2021, up from 780 a year prior and a 10-year low of 536 in 2013.

In 2021, 956 people died in those crashes and 42,000 were injured, even as vehicle miles traveled and highway construction spending remained relatively stagnant, compared to previous years.

Safety is DOTs top priority, and as we work to get to zero roadway fatalities, that has to include work zones, a Department of Transportation spokesperson told The Hill.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Laws historic investment in rebuilding our roads, bridges, and highways is putting more workers on jobsites like this one across our country. And as a result, our work through the National Roadway Safety Strategy, and the work of our partners, like [the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials], to make roads, as well as work zones, safer will be more important than ever.

The infrastructure bill includes $15.6 billion for the Highway Safety Improvement Program, including $5 billion for the Safe Streets and Roads for All Program.

Still, road work is inherently dangerous, as it puts workers in areas vulnerable to accidents involving passing vehicles.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not release specific numbers on road worker fatalities, but associated occupations such as construction, motor vehicle operation and material moving are among the deadliest jobs in the United States, along with farming, fishing and forestry.

In 2022, the death rate per 100,000 workers among all workers in the United States was 3.7. For farming fishing and forestry, it was 23.5 deaths per 100,000 workers, 14.6 per 100,000 for transportation and material moving, and 13 per 100,000 for construction and extraction.

Federal Highway Administration data show that each year between 2003 and 2008, 20,000 workers were injured in road construction zones, and 106 died in 2010.

And BLS data showed that Black and Latino workers also have higher death rates than the all-worker rate  transportation incidents were the highest cause of fatalities in both groups, accounting for the deaths of 278 Black workers and 439 Latino workers in 2022.

Foreign-born Latino workers, like the six on the Francis Scott Key Bridge, accounted for 792 of the 1,248 fatalities across all occupations, and 316 of the 792 deaths of Hispanic workers in construction.

This is a reminder of the central role that immigrants play in the frontlines of our economy. We are a hypocritical nation that keeps exploiting immigrants and taking advantage of immigrants, while at the same time welcoming extremist anti-immigrant rhetoric in the nation. And that must stop, said Hector Sanchez, president of Mi Familia Vota, a Hispanic political advocacy organization.

Two of the workers, Honduras-born Maynor Suazo Sandoval and El Salvador-born Miguel Luna, were members of CASA, an immigrant advocacy group with deep roots in Maryland.

Others, including from Guatemala and Mexico, have not been identified; Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said early Wednesday that the families of two Mexican men had asked for privacy and did not wish to be publicly identified.

Gustavo Torres, executive director of CASA, on Wednesday said the families of Suazo Sandoval and Luna agreed to disclose their identities, but asked for privacy going forward.

Maynor and Miguel are just two stories, two specific examples of thousands and thousands of Baltimoreans that are making a contribution to this beautiful country, said Torres.

In a time where there is so much hatred against the immigrant community, we look to the quiet leadership of Maynor and Miguel and appreciate how they uphold our society so Americans can be comfortable.

For advocates, the bridge deaths are a reminder of the whiplash felt by immigrants as public discourse careens from recognition of the social and economic contributions of immigrants to anti-immigrant political rhetoric.

Its a part of this schizophrenic nature of allowing someone like [former President] Trump or allowing anti-immigrant rhetoric to fuel our politics that its a pendulum. At one point, you know, during the pandemic, we were recognized what we are, which is essential we helped the country recover from that. And now were vilified as people  were vilified, said Greisa Martinez Rosas, executive director of United We Dream, an immigrant youth advocacy organization.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
The cargo ship Dali sits in the water Wednesday amid the wreckage of Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)

The bodies of two people who were killed when Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed earlier this week have been recovered, police said on Wednesday.

Authorities said eight workers were on the bridge fixing potholes when a Singapore-flagged cargo ship called the Dali struck one of the bridge's pillars, causing it to collapse. In addition to the two bodies recovered, two of the workers were rescued, and four people remain missing and are presumed dead.

The Patapsco River is now filled with debris from the collapse. Huge barges carrying cranes were heading to the area to start clearing the wreckage of the 1.6-mile-long bridge.

There is no immediate timeline on when the bridge  which spans a major thoroughfare of East Coast shipping  could be rebuilt. According to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, President Biden has instructed his staff to "move heaven and earth" to rebuild the bridge.

Jennifer Homendy, the National Transportation Safety Board chair, said investigators on Thursday were planning to interview the two pilots who were aboard the Dali at the time of the crash.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott (D) called the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge a devastating tragedy on Wednesday morning, pledging support for the families of the victims presumed dead.

This is an unthinkable tragedy, Scott said. And when you think about those families, when you think about those workers who were simply trying to improve transit for the rest of us, losing your life in this way is nothing short of a tragedy.

The bridge collapsed into the water when a cargo ship rammed into it, leading to eight victims going missing  two of which were rescued Tuesday morning. The six people still missing have been presumed dead, the Coast Guard announced Tuesday evening, as they shifted the 18-hour search and rescue operation to a recovery effort.

The six missing people, all road maintenance workers, are believed to have been on the bridge fixing potholes at the time of the collapse.

Scott said Baltimores government will provide financial support to the families of the victims and help them facilitate trauma and mental health services.

This is something that theyre going to be trying to heal and come back from for the rest of their lives, he said. This is not something thats ever going to go away.

Scott also stressed the critical nature of the bridge within the national economy, saying the collapse will tremendously impact not just Baltimore and Maryland, but the entire supply chain.

Baltimore is the ninth-largest port by trade volume in the U.S. and the No. 1 port for automobiles.

He said the city is focused on recovering the bodies of the victims to provide a sense of closure for the families before working to reopen the channel and rebuild the bridge in collaboration with state and federal officials.

Baltimore is always going to come back stronger  weve heard it from President Biden, himself. We will all see this through, but this is going to be a long-term issue, and we will never forget what happened, he said.

Biden said the federal government will move heaven and earth to rebuild the bridge, though estimates on construction time have ranged from months to up to a year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Tampa, Fla., was rebuilt in 1987 after the original bridge collapsed in 1981. A freighter struck a support post during a storm, collapsing the southbound span. A Greyhound bus and seven other vehicles were plunged into the water, killing 35 people. File Photo by Robert Neff/Wikimedia Commons

March 27 (UPI) -- The catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge early Tuesday over Baltimore's Patapsco River, where six people remain missing and presumed dead, is drawing tragic comparisons to a similar bridge collapse in Florida 44 years ago.

On the morning of May 9, 1980, a freighter slammed into the support columns of the old Sunshine Skyway bridge over Tampa Bay during a violent thunderstorm, causing a 1,300-foot section of the southbound span to collapse. A Greyhound bus and seven other vehicles plunged into the water, where 35 people died. Only the driver of a pickup truck survived the drop.

In Baltimore, a Singapore-based cargo ship is reported to have issued a mayday Tuesday morning after losing power. Crews performing pothole work on the bridge alerted drivers to stop the flow of traffic as the ship crashed into a support column, collapsing much of the span and sending eight people into the water. Two were rescued as a search continued for the other six until late Tuesday, when it was called off.

Both bridge collapses involved freighters hitting support columns, collapsing much of the span, and plunging vehicles and people into the water below. Both bridge collapses cut off a major artery for drivers and for shipping. And both spans that collapsed opened in the 1970s.

As investigators gather in Baltimore to determine what happened Tuesday, the question is what lessons learned from Florida's tragedy decades ago could have made a difference this week.

A damaged container ship rests next to a bridge pillar Tuesday in the Patapsco River after crashing into and destroying the Francis Scott Key Bridge at the entrance to Baltimore harbor in Maryland. Photo by David Tulis/UPI

Post-disaster findings

In Florida's bridge collapse, the pilot of the ship, John Lerro, ultimately was cleared of negligence and the collision was deemed an accident. During months of hearings, Lerro maintained that he had no control over the freighter and was at the mercy of the 70-mph winds as he navigated through the 800-foot-wide opening under the twin bridge spans.

"We believe he made a reasonable decision of attempting to transit under the bridge, in view of his fear of slamming into the bridge broadside," Douglas Rabe, chief National Transportation Safety Board investigator, said in 1981. Investigators ultimately determined the National Weather Service should have warned mariners of the severe storm and that Lerro should have abandoned his attempt to navigate under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

While Tuesday's bridge collapse is still early in the investigation, there are reports that the crew aboard the cargo ship Dali issued a "mayday," saying the vessel had lost power, before it slammed into one of the support piers of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Engineering protective barriers

On Tuesday, engineers and bridge designers raised questions about the structural safety of Baltimore's bridge and whether protective barriers around the support columns would have prevented the tragedy.

British structural engineer and bridge designer Ian Firth told The Baltimore Sun that protective barriers include cable systems, pontoons, caissons and submerged islands. Firth said the most commonly used protection for bridge support columns are bumpers or "dolphins," which are filled with sand or concrete to protect the bridge from cargo ships.

When the Sunshine Skyway was rebuilt in 1987 at a cost of $240 million, engineers added dolphins mounted to artificial islands to protect the bridge from "potential water-traffic collisions." The six piers, closest to the shipping channel in Tampa Bay, are protected and the two main piers are flanked by 60-foot dolphins, which can withstand an impact of up to 30 million pounds.

Maryland's Francis Scott Key Bridge opened 10 years earlier in 1977. Codes for building bridges and their structures have changed over the years and vary state by state to accommodate vehicle traffic above and maximum access for water traffic to traverse underneath.

Benjamin Schafer, a professor of civil and systems engineering at Johns Hopkins University, told the Sun that protecting the bridge piers, in the unlikely event that a large freighter is unable to navigate, could have made a difference Tuesday.

"This sort of protection is what FSK did not have, and we can see now that it may -- may -- have helped," Schafer said.
Miami Marlins third baseman Jon Berti takes up his position during the first inning of a spring training baseball game against the New York Mets Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Jupiter, Fla. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

HOUSTON (AP)  Jon Berti could be at third base for the banged-up Yankees in their opener against Houston on Thursday after New York acquired the infielder as part of a three-team trade with Miami and Tampa Bay.

New York sent catcher Ben Rortvedt to the Tampa Bay Rays and minor league outfielder Juan Cruz to the Marlins, while outfielder Shane Sasaki moved from the Rays to Miami.

The 34-year-old Berti could fill in at third base while DJ LeMahieu is on the injured list because of a bone bruise in his right foot. The former batting champion has been sidelined since fouling a ball off his foot on March 16 and is to undergo more testing Friday. In addition, the Yankees said on March 9 that infielder Oswald Peraza wouldn't throw for six to eight weeks because of a strained right shoulder.

Obviously with DJ being down, he very much figures in at the third base mix, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said during a Zoom news conference on Wednesday. Hopefully once were whole, serves as a guy that can play all over the infield, even play some outfield  quality hitter bat to ball, can steal a base.

Boone said he wanted to wait until Berti arrived in Houston to determine whether he starts against the Astros and said Gleyber Torres likely will lead off. Oswaldo Cabrera is his other third base option.

The Yankees are coming off an 82-80 season, their poorest since 1992. The Yankees' .227 batting average was 29th among the 30 teams.

Im hoping that the offense is more in line with what we expect it to be," Boone said. Tomorrow we get to go find out how good we think we are.

Boone is entering the final season of his contract.

All my energy and all my focus is trying to help us play my part in helping us be the best possible team we can be, and our goal is to be a world champion," Boone said. So I dont know if I look at it as this has to happen for me to save this job.

Berti hit .294 with seven homers, 33 RBIs and 16 stolen bases last year, down from a major league-high 41 steals in 2022. He batted .229 with one homer and six RBIs in spring training, striking out 12 times in 35 at-bats. Berti has a $3,625,000 salary and is eligible for free agency after the 2025 season.

Rortvedt, a 26-year-old left-handed hitter, was out of options and behind Jose Trevino and rookie Austin Wells in the Yankees' catching plans. Trevino will start Thursday.

Acquired from Minnesota in a March 2022 trade along with third baseman Josh Donaldson, Rortvedt missed much of 2022 because a strained right oblique muscle and was limited to 48 minor league games that season. He had surgery during spring training last year to repair an aneurysm of the posterior artery near his left shoulder, delaying his minor league season debut until April 21. Rortvedt joined the Yankees on May 20 and hit .118 with two homers and four RBIs in 32 games.

Rortvedt could split time with right-handed-hitting Rene Pinto.

In theory it kind of complements our catching situation and really our overall lineup, being a lefty hitter. We got a couple of lefties down," Rays manager Kevin Cash said. "Hes coming from a really good organization. Hell transition over here really well. ... We dont mess with too many guys that we dont think are good defensively. And we do think highly of him defensively.

Cash said infielder/outfielder Austin Shelton will be on the opening-day roster, putting the 26-year-old in position to make his big league debut.

Cruz, 18, signed with New York in 2022 for a $75,000 bonus. He hit .294 with 10 homers, 47 RBIs, nine steals and a .907 OPS last year for the Florida Complex League Yankees.

Sasaki, 23, was taken by Tampa Bay in the third round of the 2019 amateur draft with the 99th pick. A native of Hawaii, Sasaki hit .299 with seven homers, 39 RBIs and 16 stolen bases last year for Class A Bowling Green and the Florida Complex League Rays.

Juan Soto heads into his Yankees debut after going 5 for his last 28 (.179) in spring training with no RBIs.

Infielder Jorbit Vivas was to be examined by an ophthalmologist in Tampa, Florida, on Thursday and additional specialists on Friday after sustaining a left orbital fracture before Monday's exhibition game against the New York Mets.

Outfielder Oscar Gonzalez has been discharged from a Mexico City hospital after sustaining a right orbital fracture in Monday's exhibition at Diablos Rojos. Gonzalez also is to see an ophthalmologist Thursday and could return to Tampa this weekend, Boone said.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb
Barcelona's famous basilica, the Sagrada Familia, is set to be completed in 2026 after more than a century of construction, according to an annual report released last week.

The report said that the church is in the "final stage of construction," which began last year with the completion of its towers of the Evangelists. It added that the work is underway for the Chapel of the Assumption and tower of Jesus Christ.

"The Chapel of the Assumption is expected to be finished in 2025 and the tower of Jesus Christ, in 2026," the report said.

The report noted that the Sagrada Familia had 4,707,367 visitors in 2023, and income of over $137 million. Fifty-two percent of the funds went toward construction.

The basilica took shape from the vision of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, who took over building plans in 1883 after construction began the year prior. He was a devout Catholic and believed the church's construction was his way to make amends with God for the sins of the modern world, "60 Minutes" reported.

His work on the Sagrada Familia's Nativity facade and crypt have been recognized as UNESCO sites.

A tourist takes a photo next to the Sagrada Familia, March 15, 2024, in Barcelona. / Credit: David Zorrakino/Europa Press via Getty Images

Gijs van Hensbergen, who wrote a biography on Gaudi, told "60 Minutes" in 2013 that he wanted to "write the history of the whole of the Catholic faith in one building." In particular, he pointed to the church's ceiling as "a striking display of Gaudi's engineering genius."

"He wanted the interior of his church to have the feel of a forest because that's where he believed man could feel closest to God," van Hensbergen told "60 Minutes." "And when you look upwards, you can see Gaudi's columns branching out like trees."

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and the Cardinal Archbishop of Barcelona, Juan Jose Omella, concelebrate a Mass for peace at the Sagrada Familia on February 18, 2024, in Barcelona. / Credit: Lorena Sopena/Europa Press via Getty Images

Gaudi died in 1926. Since then, multiple architects and site managers have worked to finish the basilica in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudi's death.



It is currently the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. When it's completed, it's set to be the tallest church in the world, beating out the Ulm Minster in Germany.

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Barclays has said its payment systems and banking app are fully operational after earlier glitches which began on Tuesday evening.

The bank apologised for issues with payments into and out of the accounts of some of its UK customers.

In an update at 03:25 GMT, it said customers could make and receive payments once more.

Other firms such as Sainsbury's and McDonald's were recently hit by technical issues.

Dozens of account holders spoke earlier of problems logging onto the Barclays app as well as the bank's online banking service.

One business customer voiced their concern on social media, saying the issue was "not a joke or glitch; this is people's lives". "We need to make emergency plans if our money is inaccessible or gone," they added.

Responding to customers via its social media pages, the bank apologised and said it was aware of issues affecting some users logging into the app, with online banking and payments.

Barclays has about 20 million customers in the UK and has previously said it handles more than 50 million payments each month.

DownDetector, a website which monitors IT issues with companies, noted outages being reported with the bank from about 21:15 on Tuesday.

Barclays is the latest company to be affected by technical issues in recent days.

Last weekend, supermarket Sainsbury's was forced to cancel deliveries to customers after an IT problem and could only take cash in its supermarkets. Tesco was also affected by similar technical issues.

Earlier in the month fast food chain McDonald's had to close many of its restaurants after it suffered IT outages in stores around the world, it blamed the problems on a third-party provider.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 27. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will pay a working visit to the People's Republic of China (PRC) on March 2829, Trend reports via Akorda.

"On March 2829, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will pay a business visit to the People's Republic of China and take part in the session of the Boao Asian Forum," the statement says.

According to information, the program of the visit includes several meetings of the President of Kazakhstan with the leadership of China, heads of international organizations, and major Chinese companies.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN)  Bee Cave City Council voted for a disaster declaration for April 8, the date of the solar eclipse, in a city council meeting on Tuesday, March 26. Lake Travis Independent School District also canceled school for the event.

The disaster declaration allows the mayor authority over their jurisdiction to request state funding if needed during the eclipse.

We dont want to cause alarm, but this is an important move to ensure we can use all the tools we have available to be prepared for this influx of people to the area, Bee Cave Mayor Kara King said in a press release from the city.

Eclipse preps: Central Texas judges issuing disaster declarations

Austin is preparing to bring 2.5 million additional visitors to the city. People will be able to see the eclipse in the totality zone in Bee Cave, so city officials expect tens of thousands people to travel through the major roads, including Highway 71 and Farm to Market 620, the release said.

City officials are asking residents to stay home and enjoy the eclipse and to avoid driving during peak traffic. The citys communications department is also sending recommendations to local businesses to ensure they are prepared for any disruptions, according to the city.

It is our primary duty to protect our community and ensure momentous occasions like these do not disrupt the safety of our residents, King said. By preparing ahead of time, we hope this will simply be a wonderful memory for visitors and residents alike. Stay home and enjoy getting to live in the totality zone without having to travel anywhere.

With expert advice, the city has been working closely with the Emergency Management Coordinator and the police and fire departments to prepare for any situation. The mayor will implement measures to control traffic and ensure public safety. The main concern is traffic and accessibility for emergency vehicles on the busier roads.

The City recommends residents to cancel any non-emergency appointments for that day, have a back-up plan in case cell service is disrupted, stay off the roads as much as possible and download the free Voyent Alert! App to their mobile phone to receive any emergency city messages, said in the release.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
It's a kinda-sorta memory. About the char of a cheeseburger from my childhood. I can almost taste it.

It came to mind during a terrible stretch for the Los Angeles restaurant industry.

More than 65 notable eateries closed last year, and the trend hasn't let up: Spartina, Manzke, Pearl River Deli and others shuttered in the first few months of 2024. It seems harder than ever to run a successful restaurant, amid the rising cost of ingredients, labor, rent and utilities.

The bleak news got me thinking about the first eatery whose closure left me bereft. Jeremiah P. Throckmorton Grille  a casual spot in Beverly Hills  was a real-life "Peach Pit" that for years served devotees burgers, hot dogs and egg creams, until it shut down suddenly in 1997.

For many, Throckmorton  or Throck's, as regulars called it  offered a taste of adolescent freedom: You could walk there after middle school and order a burger, fries and a milkshake, without anyone saying it'd spoil dinner. Sitting at the long counter, you hatched plans with friends. You worried about a math test. And you savored your independence.

The South Beverly Drive restaurant had its quirks. There was the peculiar name, which conjured visions of a fusty baron. Then there was the inscrutable acronym  IITYWYBAHD?  emblazoned on workers' shirts. Knowing its meaning was like a secret handshake. But the most interesting thing about Throck's was its owner: Sadao Nagumo.

An enigma in an apron, he was generous with his wide smile but not with conversation. Still, the Japanese immigrant conveyed his affection with a fake bottle of ketchup he'd squeeze at diners. The unsuspecting would recoil  then dissolve in laughter when they realized they'd been hit with red string.

His burgers were basic, but among adherents, polishing one off as Nagumo looked on was something close to communion.

"I have been chasing that burger and that feeling for the rest of my adult life  and just have never found it," said former "All My Children" star Matt Borlenghi, who started going to Throck's around 1980. "It felt like home when I was there. I've pretty much given up ... on trying to find another Throckmorton."

It was clear how much Throck's meant to people. On more than one occasion, when an interviewee for this piece paused for an extra beat, I wondered if he was crying  or at least trying not to. But the restaurant's story seemed clouded with questions. Who was Jeremiah P. Throckmorton? What was the source of that acronym? And, most important, why had the place closed with no warning?

Atsuko Nagumo holds a photograph of herself and husband Sadao. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Throckmorton's shuttering occurred in the era before the internet conferred immortality to even the humblest of establishments. Unlike today, when closures are announced with heartfelt social media posts, restaurants used to shut down quietly. Then as now, the rare ones that coalesce into beloved gathering spots can leave holes in a community that linger for years. For a generation of kids from Beverly Hills, that spot was a simple diner run by a humble man of few words at a grill.

After Throck's closed, my teenage friends and I were dismayed. Without any solid information, we spun wild theories about the shuttering.

Twenty-seven years later, I decided to find out what had actually happened.

The restaurant, I soon learned, was founded by March Schwartz, the late publisher of the Beverly Hills Courier. Two of his sons filled in some of the history. Jef E. Schwartz said that he also recalled Throck's closing mysteriously  and that even his father, a city insider, was in the dark.

'Would you buy a hot dog?'

March Schwartz loved to spin a story. He loved food too. His passions collided at Throckmorton, which he opened in spring 1976 on Little Santa Monica Boulevard, a brief Times story announced.

I'd heard that the restaurant's name could be traced to a figure in a Charles Dickens or H.G. Wells story. But Sande Schwartz, another of the publisher's sons, understood Jeremiah P. Throckmorton to be the name of a character his father had invented. There is, however, another with the name: A character who appeared in 1994's "Red Skelton: Bloopers, Blunders and Ad-Libs" was called Jeremiah P. Throckmorton.

Jef said the restaurant's IITYWYBAHD? slogan  it stood for "if I tell you, would you buy a hot dog?"  also sprung from his dad's imaginative mind. The line, he explained, was a joke: "You'd get people to ask you what it is, and then you could sell them."

Within a year, Schwartz put the restaurant up for sale. This was how Nagumo came to own it. But there was little on the internet about the man  besides an obituary. Nagumo died at 78 in 2016.

"He served his customers with diligence, honesty and humor until 1997," the notice said, noting that Nagumo was survived by his wife and two daughters. They agreed to meet with me.

We convened at the Beverly Hills home of Nagumo's widow, Atsuko, who told the story of Throck's alongside daughters Takako and Nori.

Atsuko shows the Jeremiah P. Throckmorton Grille menu. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

In 1975, the Nagumos, who hailed from Tokyo, visited the U.S. on a six-month holiday. When they returned to L.A. a year later  this time with designs on an even longer stay  they learned that buying a local business could help them secure green cards. They scoured Times classified advertisements for restaurants.

They had no experience in the business  Sadao's family owned a Tokyo pachinko parlor  but figured it would be easier to master than other trades.

An ad for Throck's caught Atsuko's eye because it mentioned Beverly Hills. So the family checked out the restaurant in December 1976.

They didn't know much about hamburgers. But even with their limited English, Sadao and his wife grasped the essence of Schwartz's spiel: "This is a place where you make the hamburger patties every day, fresh," he told them, according to Atsuko, 80.

The Nagumos struck a deal to buy Throckmorton and set out to learn the restaurant business.

This was decades before Father's Office put caramelized onions, blue cheese and arugula on its burger, and the one at Throck's was a mostly traditional affair. It came with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, relish, chopped onions, mustard and mayonnaise. My order: Hold the relish, easy on the mayo.

Regular Rick Schwartz liked the burger, but for him, it was all about the steak sandwich  with onions.

"It was really the first time I started to have a relationship with onions  we never knew each other until Throck's," said Schwartz, who is not related to the restaurant's founder. "They say when you get bar mitzvahed, you become a man, but I think you're not a man until you learn to like onions."

Throck's became a beloved neighborhood spot. It attracted Hollywood types such as Elton John and Bette Midler, the Nagumos said. And there were the kids who went on to achieve fame  including Borlenghi.

"I used to talk to Sadao about wanting to be an actor," said Borlenghi, whose recent work includes "Cobra Kai" on Netflix. "I really would've been proud for him to see me on 'Cobra Kai.' I'd love to be able to walk in and talk to him about that."

The heir

After more than 10 years at its original location, Throck's moved to South Beverly Drive around 1989. This was the version of the restaurant that I'd known.

The Nagumo daughters worked there alongside their parents when their schedules permitted. Nori manned the fry station, Takako took orders, Sadao tabulated checks, and Atsuko dressed the burgers as they came off the flat -top grill.

"You could always see the bond with his family  and what his family meant to him," Borlenghi said.

But family ties were what led to the restaurant's closure.

Takako, Atsuko and Nori Nagumo with items from Throck's. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

Sadao's father was diagnosed with cancer in 1997. It was then that Sadao made a decision  one wrapped up in a sense of duty. In coming to America years earlier, he had forsaken his birthright: As the oldest son among five children, he was in line to inherit the pachinko business.

"There was a lot of hope for him: This is the child that is going to take over," Atsuko said. "But he couldn't."

The Nagumos stayed in L.A. much longer than anticipated  and it was time for Sadao to return to Japan.

"I need to go back home and take care of him," he told his wife.

He asked Atsuko to permanently close Throck's. She offered to keep it open, but he felt he had to be there himself.

Sadao left for Tokyo, where he stayed until his dad died. He was gone for about six months.

Within days of his departure, the restaurant closed. Takako said they put a sign in the window explaining the shuttering, but I  and apparently others  missed it. For younger patrons, the closure meant the loss of a kind of father figure.

Throck's had lasted 21 years. By the time Sadao died in 2016, it'd been gone for nearly as long.

"I regret that I never got to take my kids to have a burger there, but I did take them to his funeral," Borlenghi said. "I was honored to be able to say goodbye. He had opened his heart to us for decades."

In interviews, patrons took pains to articulate precisely why the place meant so much to them. It came down to a feeling.

"Never was there a man who meant so much who said so little to all the kids of Beverly Hills," said Steven Fenton, another regular. "There was this understood love of cheeseburgers, back and forth, between myself and Sadao."

The Throckmorton way

A Japanese restaurant inhabits the space that once was home to Throck's. Sushi Kiyono has been there for 26 years, making it a rare small-business stalwart on Beverly Drive, which is glutted with chain restaurants such as Jimmy John's and Chipotle.

Throck's, Rick Schwartz said, "represented a very different time in Beverly Hills."

"I guess people's haunts eventually all fade away," he added. "But there was something about sitting at that counter."

Atsuko made this cheeseburger in the style of those served at her family's eatery, Jeremiah P. Throckmorton Grille. (Daniel Miller / Los Angeles Times)

The interview with the Nagumos wound down. I made a move wrap things up, but Atsuko had a question: Did I want a cheeseburger, made the Throckmorton way?

I hadn't counted on this. Moments later, she brought out a burger, with apologies. The lettuce wasn't shredded. And shed run out of pickles. But it was wrapped in paper, just like it had been at Throck's.

I took a bite.

It didnt taste like the burger from Throck's. How could it? Nothing can compete with nostalgia.

But it was delicious.

Times researcher Scott Wilson contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
DENVER (KDVR)  The town of Bennett has secured new law enforcement services after refusing to pay the Adams County Sheriffs Office 26% more in 2024 than the year before.

According to a letter from Bennett Mayor Royce Pindell, the Adams County office was seeking about $489,923 for an additional contract with the town of Bennett in 2024. That was a 26% increase from the previous years contract, and the town said it had only budgeted for a 6% increase.

As of Wednesday, March 27, Bennett has secured new law enforcement services with the Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office beginning May 1, according to a release from the county. The contract is costing the town $502,129, according to Arapahoe County. That base rate includes all salaries, benefits, equipment and other direct and indirect costs.

In consultation with Town Trustees, the Sheriff will determine a service schedule for coverage hours and days; residents will have 24/7 access to the Sheriffs 911 communication center for emergencies and dispatch as needed, the agency said.

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Bennett is an incorporated town located partially in Adams and Arapahoe counties, and the approximately 3,300 residents pay taxes depending on which county theyre living in.

The Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office is deeply honored to provide law enforcement and safety services for the people of Bennett, said Sheriff Tyler Brown. Residents can be assured that we bring a tradition of professionalism, excellence and innovation to our work and that we are looking forward to building strong relationships with the entire community.

Pindell echoed Browns sentiments.

The Town of Bennett is greatly encouraged to have Arapahoe County expand their services to all of incorporated Bennett, said Pindell in the Arapahoe County release. This partnership underscores our unwavering dedication to Town safety. Together, we are committed to ensuring a safe and thriving community for all Bennett residents.

The Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office will be designated as an independent contractor and so will operate similarly in Bennett as it does in the city of Centennial. According to the agency, the new dedicated deputies to Bennett will free up other officers for unincorporated coverage.

This is a win-win for the people of Bennett and Arapahoe County and allows us to provide effective coverage for our Eastern residents amid tight economic times, said County Commissioner Jeff Baker, whose district includes Bennett and Eastern Arapahoe County. These kinds of partnerships reinforce our commitment to providing the best law enforcement by partnering with Bennett in a deal that benefits all.

Adams County, Bennetts relationship decayed in months

The Adams County services were discontinued at midnight on Feb. 29, according to the agency, which stated, The Adams County Sheriffs Office will only respond to calls for service made through traditional 911 calls to protect the lives and property of the Town of Bennett citizens in fulfilling our statutory obligations. All other complaints and non-emergency requests for police contact should be directed to the Town of Bennett Staff and Board of Trustees.

Before that, the town stated it would not be contracting with Adams County.

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In a letter explaining the decision to Bennett residents that was published on Feb. 20, the town leadership stated that it believes the Adams County Sheriff must provide Bennett residents police services, regardless of payment.

In a letter penned by Pindell, the mayor said that Adams County Sheriff Gene Claps had threatened to stop providing school resource officers to School District 29J, as they are not part of emergency services. Pindell said he believed the sheriffs office contracted directly with the Bennet and Strasburg School Districts, and a change in relations with the town would not impact that contract.

The Adams County Sheriffs Office stated in its Feb. 29 release that it had agreed to a month-to-month contract with 29J School District to provide a school resource officer and ensure a uniformed deputy was in the school district until Bennett could provide public safety services to the town.

The mayor wrote that a lack of communication, unexplained discrepancies and conflicting information, a lack of documentation and unwillingness to explain the financial impact, and a threat to the communitys public safety were all part of why he wanted to discontinue working with the Adams Countys sheriff.

You have made it clear to the Town that you do not wish to serve its citizens any longer and I can assure you the Town Board is equally anxious to obtain law enforcement services from an entity other than you, Pindell wrote. Therefore, we are working as expeditiously as possible to get new law enforcement services in place and will notify you as soon as that is accomplished. I assume you will fully cooperate in this transition so as not to put any of our citizens at risk.

The town also consulted its attorney, Scotty Krob, about what services the Adams County office is obligated to provide.

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Krob said in his letter that Colorado statute places the burden on sheriffs to keep the peace in their respective counties without any indication that their obligations are confined solely to unincorporated parts of their county.

If all county taxpayer are paying the same taxes for sheriff services, then all county taxpayers should receive those services, regardless of whether they are in the unincorporated or incorporated parts of the county, Krob wrote.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
The city of Berkeley has agreed to halt enforcement of a ban on natural gas piping in new homes and buildings that was successfully opposed in court by the California Restaurant Assn. (Richard Vogel / Associated Press)

After a years-long legal battle that garnered national attention, Berkeley's natural gas ban has fizzled out.

As part of an agreement last week to settle a lawsuit from the California Restaurant Assn., Berkeley agreed to immediately halt enforcement of its first-in-the-nation ban on installing natural gas piping in newly constructed buildings.

Berkeley has also "agreed to take steps to repeal the ordinance," said Jot Condie, president of the restaurant association.

Every city and county in California that has passed a similar ordinance should follow their lead, Condie said in a statement.

Read more: Federal court slows a California ban on natural gas appliances

Farimah Faiz Brown, Berkeley's city attorney, confirmed that the city has ceased enforcement of the ban, saying cities were "uniquely responsible for protecting their residents" from the climate-change harms posed by burning natural gas.

"Berkeley will continue to be a leader on climate action," Brown said in a statement.

Fighting climate change has been a primary argument put forward by proponents of such bans. Natural gas burned in homes and businesses accounts for about 10% of Californias planet-warming pollution  and state plans to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 have relied on phasing out natural gas appliances amid a 90% reduction in demand for natural gas.

Condie said that climate change remains a concern, but that the policy was not the right solution.

Read more: California declared war on natural gas. Now the fight is going national

Gas ban supporters have also cited public health as a rationale. A 2023 study from Stanford University and nonprofit PSE Healthy Energy found that cooking with gas stoves can expose people to roughly the same cancer risk as breathing secondhand cigarette smoke.

Berkeley was the first U.S. city to approve a ban on gas hookups in most new homes, in 2019. More than 70 other California cities and counties  including Los Angeles  have since followed suit and effectively banned new gas appliances.

The fate of those policies, as well as dozens of others outside the state, is unclear.

Read more: As a regulatory battle simmers, evidence against gas stoves is mounting

In an April 2023 ruling, a federal appeals court sided with the restaurant association against Berkeley's ordinance  ruling that the city could not preempt federal statutes in attempting to regulate the piping that carries natural gas into a building as a way to regulate the appliances themselves.

After the appeals court declined to rehear the case on Jan. 2, the two parties spent months working on a settlement, according to the restaurant association.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Dominic Basile, director of the real estate and appraisal division at the Summit County Fiscal Office, talks about the property appraisal process during a 2023 meeting at Barberton Active Adult Center in Barberton.

The clock is about to run out for Summit County home and business owners seeking relief on their property taxes.

Earlier this year, the Summit County Fiscal Office completed valuation adjustments on more than 200,000 parcels in the county, with property values and tax bills climbing. Owners of about 236,000 properties were notified of value changes by mail, said Michael Migden, assistant chief of staff with the Summit County Fiscal Office.

Many property owners  1,522 through Monday, Migden said  have appealed the appraisals this year, seeking to lower the valuation and the property taxes they're assessed. The number of complaints is down substantially from about 5,000 complaints in 2021.

They include owners of million-dollar homes and multimillion-dollar commercial and industrial properties throughout the county.

Both Migden and Jack LaMonica, chief of staff for the fiscal office, said a "road show" series held in Summit County communities in August and September helped reduce the number of complaints this year. Fiscal office staff were able to make adjustments to valuations at the one-on-one sessions.

"We did everything we could possibly do to try to be transparent with the property owners," LaMonica said. "I do believe the results of that outreach had a tremendous effect."

Statistics provided by the fiscal office show that 2,915 residents attended the road show events, with more than 1,000 evaluations received.

Hearings still being scheduled for property valuation complaints

Most of the appeals remain open, with hearings extending through April for more than 500 cases. Hearing dates for hundreds of complaints haven't been scheduled.

LaMonica said it's likely hearings will extend into September.

Some of the cases have been closed, though, with most receiving some decline in valuation.

In one notable case that has already been closed, a Richfield home originally valued at $1.08 million was reduced by $542,820 to about $540,000, Board of Revision documents show.

In Cuyahoga Falls, a Zorn Drive manufacturing operation valued at $4.47 million is disputing about $1.37 million of that valuation. That case remains open.

The relief granted can be relatively small, too. A Bellfield Avenue owner of Akron residential property was given a $3,980 decrease on a property originally valued at $8,980.

What the Board of Revision can and can't do

"(Some) individuals believe they can go to the Board of Revision because of their taxes," LaMonica said.

But that's not the purpose of the board. It determines valuations, which will be reflected on a property owner's tax bill.

Depending on what month the adjustment is made, changes in what a property owner owes will be reflected on the second half tax bill or the first bill of 2025.

In preparing for a hearing, a property owner is advised to have a private appraisal conducted.

"That would be one of the strongest forms of evidence," Migden said.

Others include estimated costs of repairs needed and a comparative market analysis.

School districts can challenge a property tax adjustment if it rises to certain levels. Board of Revision data show challenges from at least 12 school districts to various property valuation requests.

As of last week, property owner complaints broke down this way by school  or taxing  district, with the top five listed:

Akron City School District: 316

Stow-Munroe Falls City School District: 95

Nordonia Hills City School District: 94

Hudson City School District: 92

Twinsburg City School District: 90.

How to file a complaint on your Summit County property valuation

For those who believe their property is overvalued, a complaint can be filed through April 1. Information on how to file the complaint can be found at https://fiscaloffice.summitoh.net/index.php/board-of-revision-complaint or by calling the Board of Revision at 330-926-2559 or 330-643-2636.

A Summit County Fiscal Office video at https://tinyurl.com/summitvaluation explains the process.

Complaint forms can be mailed to the Summit County Fiscal Office, 175 S. Main Street, Room 302, Akron, OH 44308 or the satellite office at Summit County Board of Revision, 1180 South Main St., Suite 250, Akron, OH 44301.

More: Historic property value and tax increases will hit some Summit County communities harder

More: What to know about Summit County property value reappraisals and how to appeal

Complaint forms must be time stamped by 11:59 p.m. April 1 and must be signed, dated and notarized.

Leave a message for Alan Ashworth at 330-996-3859 or email him at aashworth@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @newsalanbeaconj.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Think your Summit County property appraisal is wrong? Better act fast
In a rare bit of good news from the Middle East, U.S. forces in Syria and Iraq are seeing their first real respite after months of relentless attacks. Iran has tentatively reined in its proxies and reduced its own risk exposure, fearing these groups were courting conflicts that might spiral out of control. This creates an opening for more coherent and forceful U.S. strategy to exploit Irans vulnerabilities and compel enduring changes to its destabilizing behavior. It is highly uncertain, however, whether the Biden administration will seize this opportunity.

Two developments came together to produce this inflection point. First, Israel shifted from defense to offense in its operations against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Syria. During the decade preceding October 7, hundreds of Israeli airstrikes pounded various Iran-backed militias in that countrychiefly in an effort to interdict key weapons transfers to Hezbollah, though without trying to reverse the buildup of a more permanent Iranian presence in Syria. But Israeli operations have picked up pace and expanded to target senior IRGC and Hezbollah officers. Facing this new threat environment, high-ranking Iranian officers significantly scaled back their presence in the country and redeployed their proxies away from the Syrian Golan abutting Israel.

Second, the Biden administration stepped up its own actions after a January 28 drone strike by an Iraqi IRGC proxy that killed three American soldiers in Jordan. In the three months prior, the United States conducted little more than a dozen airstrikes in response to 160-plus proxy attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria, often choosing to hit empty warehouses and other low-value targets. In just two days in early February, it carried out 85 strikes against mostly higher-value targetsincluding eliminating the commander of the Iraqi group responsible for the January 28 attack with a drone strike in the middle of Baghdad. It also employed bigger platforms than before, most notably strategic bombers.

At least initially, Pentagon officials paired these military moves with starker signals of intent. Self-restricted, milquetoast pledges to conduct only narrowly tailored and proportionate responses were ditched for declarations of an impending multitiered campaign aimed explicitly at the IRGC. Operations would now be open-ended and designed to take away even more capability than in the past. Pressure on U.S. forces has eased markedly since these changes, as the IRGC moved forces and personnel out of Iraq and Syria and its proxies dialed down their attacks by more than 90 percent.

Tehrans abrupt about-face is telling. By late January Iran had good reason to fear that reckless actions by Hezbollah and other proxies could trigger serious blowback on its own personnel, assets, and possibly territory. Top Iranian officials quickly darkened doors in Baghdad and Beirut to insist that these groups reverse rising tensions with the United States and Israel. Feeling the heat from Beijing about Houthi attacks on vital chokepoints for seaborne trade, Iran also attempted, evidently with far less success, to limit what weapons its Yemeni proxies could use against international shipping.

This tenuous lull highlights Irans own underlying strategic weaknesses. Its well-armed proxy axis of resistance, centered on Hezbollahs massive arsenals in Lebanon, certainly creates major problems for Israel, Arab states, and the U.S. bases it encircles. Tehrans ability to impose highly asymmetric costs gives it a sharp sense of escalation dominance and undermines the normal logic of deterrent threats against it. But at the same time, these iron claws are meant to compensate for the paper tiger wielding them.

The regimes enduring concern is to avoid feeling any pain itself. The imposition of such pain, and the fear of more to come, drove the remarkably few instances in which Iran genuinely altered its long-term behavior, including its monumental decision to end the interminable war with Iraq in 1988 andafter heavy IRGC casualties in Syrias civil warits concerted buildup of proxies to bear the brunt of its expanding regional ambitions.

Irans cost-aversion also creates self-limiting contradictions at the heart of its proxy approach. The more it tries to insulate itself by devolving operational command and advanced weapons to its proxies, the more freedom of maneuver they have to escalate hostilities that could ultimately imperil Iranian targets. Tehran has leaned this way in recent years, as the IRGCs expeditionary arm struggled to replicate Qassem Suleimanis brutally artful direction of this far-flung proxy network following his death by U.S. drone in 2020. Yet reversing course and clamping down could fray the very ties upon which Iran depends, since Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other groups have their own operational and political considerations that do not always align with Tehrans goals and sensitivities.

And so Iran is now biding its time and probing for signs of its enemies waning resolveall with an eye to reescalating when the danger is safely past. Following the 1991 Gulf War and 1996 Khobar Towers bombing, Iran provisionally paused support for proxy attacks until it believed a direct U.S. response was off the table. Genuinely worried it was next on the U.S. hit list after the Taliban and Saddam, the regime froze key elements of its nuclear weapons program from 2004-07, until the American military became so obviously enmired in Iraq and Afghanistan that it no longer posed a viable threat.

The Biden administration is squandering a similar opportunity to convert its temporary tactical edge into a more durable strategic victory. By remaining conspicuously silent since early February, it seems eager to treat this respite as proof of successful deterrence that obviates the need for continued pressure. But deterrence was already fatally damaged even before the lethal attack by an Iranian-made drone in Jordan. At this point, still framing U.S. actions strictly in terms of self-defense will merely encourage Iran to continue eroding U.S. resolve and capabilities.

Therefore a heavy burden of proof remains on the United States to persuade Iran to halt its aggression for good. To force major changes in Tehrans behavior, Washington should ditch deterrence for a wholly different strategy of compellence. This means sustainingand likely intensifyingits initial February response until Irans proxy ring of fire actually terminates its multifront war. To be credible, a coercive campaign like this, per Cold War strategist Thomas Schelling, needs to be allocated over time and apportioned in intensity, in a way that retaliatory deterrent threats often do not. Indeed, because compellence entails much more than just drawing defensible red lines, it is both harder and more important to know ones aims and communicate than it is with deterrence.

Accordingly, as Iran scans for signals of U.S. intent, officials should sharpen their initial threats from earlier this year. Iran must be held responsible, directly and explicitly, for proxy attackslethal or noton American forces, and it must believe the United States will escalate vertically, striking things Iran holds dear. The regime needs to hear from American leadership, proactively and unequivocally, that IRGC personnel facilitating attacks around the Middle East are fair game. If that is not compelling enough, Tehran also needs to know the United States will work its way up the ladder, taking literal aim at higher-level IRGC command and control nodes, Iranian platforms and, if need be, military targets on Iranian terra firma.

Unfortunately, recent Pentagon statements chiding Tehran to intervene and tell these [proxy] groups to stop their attacks if it doesnt want to see a regional conflict, are unmoored from any messaging about how such conflict involves prohibitive costs for Iran. Officials cannot afford to lessen the gravity of U.S. threats to act at times and places of their choosing by slow-rolling and telegraphing future operations, as they did in the runup to their February 2 response. In this light, boosting American firepower in the region is helpful only if Iran thinks its presence increases the pain its forces are about to feel.

The United States can also convey stronger resolve by backing Israel, whose forces are trying to compel an end to Hezbollahs attacks and eject its ground troops from southern Lebanon. Clear statements supporting Israels readiness to inflict steadily heavier costs here will feed Iranian fears of escalationthe same fears that already drove it to pull back its own forces around Israels north, turn the screws on Hezbollah to de-escalate, and head off a larger war. But its not just the Biden administration that needs to act: The aid package that is presently stalled in Congress is vital to restocking Israels depleted arsenals and replenishing the prepositioned U.S. weapons stockpile that supports both countries readiness for heightened conflict.

Hezbollahs main function is to deter an Israeli strike on Irans nuclear weapons programthe regimes most-prized assetso Tehran is especially susceptible to anything that jeopardizes this ace in the hole. Thus U.S. backing for Israel is particularly effective for coercing Tehran to roll back its aggression, including by pressing Hezbollah to fall in line with American diplomatic efforts to restore calm on Israels northern front. And the heavier Tehrans hand, the more Hezbollah doubts the wisdom of inviting a full-scale third Lebanon war on behalf of Irans nuclear ambitionsand, in turn, the less confident Iran feels about pursuing those ambitions unabated.

The Houthis are a sui generis case in Irans proxy network, with slightly different implications for a new U.S. strategy. They are far more autonomous than the rest of the axis and take less heed of directives from far-off Tehran. By the same token, the Houthis are less central to Irans regional objectives than is Hezbollah, even as the regimes interests are well-served by threats to shipping and the Arabian Peninsula from Yemen. The United States can curtail this threat only by targeting Iranian forces providing the crucial intelligence, weapons, and advisory support that enables Houthi launches in the first placenot by merely staying the course and solely targeting Houthi drones and missiles.Americas goals in the Middle East remain fundamentally unchanged since right after October 7, when President Biden inveighed Iran not to broaden the Israel-Hamas war or attack U.S. forces in the region. His administrations more robust, but incomplete, response to the Jordan attack shows how an even more forceful and sustained approach can actually secure these objectives. Though the prospect of stronger U.S. action and escalation can seem daunting and uncertain, surely it offers a far safer course than simply awaiting Irans next deadly attack.

Read more at The Dispatch

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President Biden was interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters during a speech in North Carolina on Tuesday where he eventually conceded that they "have a point" on "care in Gaza."

"What about the health care in Gaza?" A member of the audience shouted at Biden while he was delivering remarks on healthcare in Raleigh, North Carolina. "What about the health care in Gaza?"

"Everybody deserves health care," Biden responded. "Be patient with them."

One of the protesters continued shouting off camera before Biden acknowledged the concern being raised.

PRO-PALESTINIAN PROTESTERS ATTEMPT TO DISRUPT SOTU NEAR CAPITOL: 'BIDEN'S LEGACY IS GENOCIDE'

"They have a point, we need to get a lot more care into Gaza," Biden said. "But folks back to the subject at hand. Even pregnancy was considered a preexisting condition. You all know that? Well, for all the young people out there before ACA, you'd get kicked off your parent's health care plans before you turned 26 just as you're heading out on your own. A lot has changed."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.

JILL BIDEN HECKLED MORE THAN ONCE AT ARIZONA CAMPAIGN STOP

President Joe Biden

Biden, and First Lady Jill Biden, have been heckled numerous times in the past year over the developing war in Gaza by critics who have accused his administration of supporting a "genocide" against Palestinian people.

"How many kids have you killed?" One protester shouted at Biden in January.

Biden has faced mounting criticism from within his own party over his support of Israel's military campaign to rid Gaza of Hamas terrorists following the massacre they carried out against civilians on October 7th of last year.

BIDEN ADMIN 'PERPLEXED' BY NETANYAHU DECISION TO CANCEL ISRAELI DELEGATION

As Biden has attempted to appease members of his party who are calling for a cease-fire in Gaza, tensions have grown between his administration and Israeli leadership who recently canceled a visit to the United States after the U.S. did not veto a United Nations resolution calling for a cease fire.

Recent Fox News polling shows a sharp divide within the Democratic Party on the Israel issue with 42% of voters supporting the Palestinian side of the conflict, up from 25% in October.

Views on backing Israel have mostly held steady since November: 30% of voters think the U.S. is too supportive, 27% not supportive enough, and 38% say its about right. Voters under age 30 are among those most likely to say the U.S. has been too supportive, as 47% feel that way.

Since November, approval of Bidens handling of the Israel-Hamas war is down 8 points among all voters and down 10 points among Democrats.





Original article source: Biden concedes to pro-Palestinian protesters after multiple interruptions: 'They have a point'
On February 1, the Biden administration issued an executive order on violent extremism by settlers in the West Bank, which has been increasing over the past several months with the world watching the war in Gaza. The Biden administration accompanied this order with sanctions on four settlers who, it charged, had directly carried out violence or intimidation. This month, the Biden administration expanded the sanctions, adding three more settlers and two illegal outposts, which it said were bases used to perpetuate violence against Palestinians.

This was met in some corners with condemnation: This executive order is about violence in the West Bank carried out by a limited number of settlers, while the Israeli army kills tens of thousands of people in Gaza, aided by the United States. Elsewhere, it was heralded as a potentially major development, a warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, particularly given that U.S. officials told The Wall Street Journal that they were considering sanctioning two of his coalitions extremist members, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Sanctions are a tool, one intended to punish or change behavior. The behavior thats being punished is clear: extremist settler violence. But will the behavior on the part of the Israeli government change? And what are the sanctions communicating to the Israeli people about their governmentand about the United States? The Biden administration has given itself the power to go after individuals and entities in Israel. That could include soldiers in the Israel Defence Forces or ministers in the governmentand, theoretically, even U.S. citizens and groups that support violent settlers. This would not only suggest a seismic shift in U.S. policy but could put pressure on Netanyahus coalition governmentor make Israeli citizens more aware and more critical of violent settlers and illegal settlements.

As with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumers recent call for new Israeli elections, the move is unprecedented and significant as a symbol. Whether its significant as a policy depends on what happens next.





I think its a very significant step, said Dov Waxman, director of the Y&S Nazarian Center for Israel Studies at UCLA. In some ways, he said, the significance is masked by its initial targeting of just four individuals. The executive order could be interpreted very narrowlybut it could also be quite broad.

I would describe this, he said, as kind of a shot across the bow. And, he said, the measure as it exists could potentially drive a wedge in the Netanyahu coalition between the prime minister and Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, if the latter do not feel their leader is sufficiently supportive.

Thus far, though, the measure is broadly understood as more significant for its symbolism and its potential. I think it was an appropriate thing to do, said Steven Cook, senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. The Biden administration was intending to signify that it was not going to enable the worst of this, particularly since illegal settlements and violent settlers in the West Bank are preventing Bidens stated goal of a two-state solution. And enforcement would be straightforward, since the bureaucracy is already in place: Those sanctioned cant travel to, do business in, or use banks that have corresponding banks in the U.S. (Israeli banks did indeed say they would comply with U.S. sanctions, over the objections of Smotrich and Ben-Gvir.)

Still, Cook, author of the forthcoming book The End of Ambition: Americas Past, Present, and Future in the Middle East, acknowledged that, as it was now, the executive order and sanctions were more like a warning.

It certainly tries to send a very strong message, said Sanam Vakil, adjunct professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies Europe. But as it is, the Biden administration is picking off low-hanging fruit. And Israel is continuing with settlement expansion. Last week, it announced that it is claiming roughly 1,980 acres in the West Bank as state land.

I think the executive order as I read it authorizes a lot more than they have actually done at this point, which is typically the case, said Rachel Ziemba, adjunct senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security. The issue, she said, is whether Biden will escalate.





The big questions are these: What would escalation look like? And what change within Israel could it bring about?

Some of what could happen is outside of the realm of sanctions: As writer Jo-Ann Mort argued in The Guardian late last month, the U.S. could also be making other moves, like refusing to fund binational research from institutions inside the settlements and treating settlers differently from other Israeli citizens in their applications for the new U.S. visa waiver program.

The Biden administration could also take another dramatic course of action: It could look more closely at its own citizens. Another Guardian report found that U.S. citizens have donated millions to causes including illegal settlements, which some legal experts argue is illegal under U.S. tax law. Critics believe that such donations could be better monitored and even prosecuted.

This would not necessarily need to be done through the executive order. Last year, legislation was proposed in the state of New York that would make it illegal for New Yorkbased charities to support settlements and would allow Palestinians harmed by settlers to sue such charities in New York. As it is now, donations to such charities are tax deductible. Consider, for example, the case of Beit El in the West Bank, which has touted donors like former President Donald Trump and his adviser and son-in-law, Jared Kushner. New Yorkbased charity Israel Empowered raises money for a military preparatory academy in Beit El.

Alternatively, whole Israeli settler organizations or groups that provide support for violent settlers could be designated. A 2015 Haaretz investigation found that private U.S. donors paid $220 million to Jewish communities in the West Bank just from 2009 to 2013. If the organizations to which they were giving money in Israel were sanctioned, it would mean that Americans who donated those hundreds of millions of dollars could face prosecution for providing them goods and services, and banks would be held liable for processing transactions on their behalf. Americans of a certain political stripe would almost certainly say that Biden was cutting off American support for an ally; others could credibly counter that the Biden administration was holding that ally accountable to international law. (Some Americans are already at risk of this, having donated to a fundraiser for Yinon Levi, who was sanctioned back in February.)

Khaled Elgindy, director of the Middle East Institutes program on Palestine and Palestinian Affairs, also noted that there were no foreign terrorist organization designations, which is to say that no Israeli settler groups were designated. That seems odd, he said, especially given that the Biden administration undesignated Kahanist groups in 2022. They took away their one big tool, and now theyre applying this, I suppose, theoretically large tool, but in microscopic ways, he said.

Keith Preble, visiting professor at Miami University in Ohio, noting that the U.S. government rarely sanctions U.S. citizens directly with civil enforcement actions, said he would be surprised if the Biden administration changed course where sanctioning Americans is concerned.

In addition to individual settlers and outposts and groups, the executive order is written in such a way as to potentially encompass settler councils, and the administrative apparatus, and anyone or any structure that supports illegal outposts, Waxman said. The U.S. could, in effect, go after the very systems of power that enable and uphold illegal settlements.

Here too, there is a difference between what the U.S. has done so far and what it could do. To be meaningful, I would want to see dozens, maybe hundreds of individuals who are named, said Elgindy, an adviser to the Palestinian leadership in Ramallah from 2004 to 2009. The other test would be what kind of people: There are the government officials whose names were leaked as being considered, but there are also those in between government ministers and random settlers, Elgindy said, namely army commanders or individual soldiers, who may accompany settlers, even when theyre rampaging, and stand by in the face of violence.

Dror Sadot, spokesperson for BTselem, an Israeli human rights organization focused on the occupied territories, echoed this. Sadot lauded the Biden administration for making clear that settler violence is on the agenda. But BTselem, she explained, is focused on trying to make clear that settler violence is an arm of the state, and of successive governments that have supported settlers. Theres the military guarding them, the police refusing to hold people accountable for violence. Israel should be held accountable for this, and not [just] the individuals, Sadot said.

If the sanctions were meaningfully expanded, that would not only put pressure on the government itself, but it could raise the consciousness of the Israeli public on the issue. Per Sadot, its too early to say what the impact would be, and most Israelis arent particularly interested in the West Bank. But after the 7th of October, I think weve seen something more in the center people that will say something like, those settlers are putting up another front while we need to fight in Gaza.

This is not, she acknowledged, a leftist position (BTselem itself has called for a cease-fire in Gaza). But meaningfully expanded U.S. sanctions, she said, could further raise consciousness: Now you see the U.S. administration is isolating us because of these extremists. Something like this. This would be the emotion.

Putting Israelis in that same category as Russians, for examplethat does send a strong message to the Israeli public that Western countries, while supporting Israel, are drawing a line in the sand on settler terrorism and continued efforts to forcibly displace Palestinians in the West Bank, Waxman said. The Biden executive order made the case that settler violence was against Israels own interest. Most Israelis, I think, would agree with that, he added.





Waxman said that the order doesnt have to be used to be effective: An instrument has been created, a precedent set. And if it can move Israeli public opinion, check Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, and encourage the state to crack down on settler violence, that would be something.

On the other hand, the U.S. has issued a warning. If the warning is not heeded, and settler violence continues to increase, will the Biden administration actually broadly interpret the order?

I cant see how this would affect anything, much less topple the government, when its still being used in a microscopic way, Elgindy said. If they significantly expand the use of the tool, then I suppose it could. But that would signal a major change in U.S. policy, Elgindy added, and the last five and a half months have shown that the Biden administration does not want to make a major change in its approach to Israel. And without that major change, its ineffective, Vakil said. Its not going to change the dial in Israel in any way.

Still, a tool is a tool. A person can go out and buy a hammer, but the hammer on its own does nothing if it remains hanging in a shed. It can be used to hang a picture there, remove a nail there. Or it can be used to tear something down, and, in its place, build something new.
FILE - President Barack Obama, flanked by Vice President Joe Biden, left, and former President Bill Clinton, right, pose for a photo with the U.S. World Cup soccer team under the North Portico of the White House in Washington, May 27, 2010. President Joe Biden will share a stage with Barack Obama and Bill Clinton on Thursday in New York as he raises money for his reelection campaign. It's a one-of-a-kind political extravaganza that will showcase decades of Democratic leadership. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)

WASHINGTON (AP)  When President Joe Biden needs advice, there are two people he can turn to who know what its like to sit in his chair. Sometimes he will invite Barack Obama over to the White House for a meal or he will get on the phone with Bill Clinton.

The three men share decades of history at the pinnacle of American and Democratic leadership, making them an unusual trio in presidential history. Although there has sometimes been friction as their ambitions and agendas have diverged, they have spent years building toward a similar vision for the country.

On Thursday, their partnership will be on display in what has been described as a one-of-a-kind fundraising extravaganza in New York City to help Biden build on his already significant cash advantage in this years presidential election. It's a dramatic show of force intended to rally the Democratic Party faithful to secure a second term for Biden despite his stubbornly low poll numbers and doubts due to his age (81).

There is everything to be gained by Joe Biden standing next to Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, said Leon Panetta, who worked in the administrations of both former presidents. That picture is worth a hell of a lot in politics today.

The display of solidarity is a sharp contrast to Donald Trumps isolation from other Republican leaders.

Although Trump has solidified his grip on his party on the way to becoming the presumptive nominee, not even his own former vice president, Mike Pence, is willing to endorse Trump's bid for another White House term. The only other living Republican president, George W. Bush, is not a supporter, either.

It's a far different situation with Biden, Obama and Clinton. When they haven't been campaigning against each other, they've been working together.

At one point, all three of them were on a collision course during the Democratic presidential primary in 2008. Biden and Obama sought the nomination, as did Clinton's wife, Hillary. Obama came out on top, and chose Biden as his vice president and Hillary Clinton as his secretary of state.

As Obama's two terms were ending and the 2016 election was approaching, he nudged Hillary Clinton to the forefront as his preferred successor and dissuaded Biden from running after Biden's elder son died of cancer. Clinton lost to Trump, who lost to Biden in 2020. Obama privately helped clear a path for Biden to the Democratic nomination that year.

There have been notable splits between the presidents on key issues. Biden was unsuccessful in persuading Obama not to send more troops to Afghanistan in 2009. U.S. forces remained in the country until 2021, when Biden withdrew them during his first year in office.

The three presidents have often focused on the same goals in a sort of legislative relay race. Clinton failed to significantly expand health care access during his presidency, which ran from 1993 to 2001. Obama picked up the baton when he took office in 2009 and signed the Affordable Care Act into law in 2010.

Biden called the law a big ... deal"  inserting an infamous expletive in the middle of that thought  and built on it when he began his own term in 2021. He signed legislation that included financial incentives for states to expand Medicaid, prompting North Carolina to take the belated step last year, more than a decade after the Affordable Care Act made it possible.

Between Clinton, Obama and Biden, "theyve seen the sweep of Democratic history together in ways that not everybody has, said Gene Sperling, a longtime economic adviser.

Sperling is among the administration officials who have served all three presidents. Another member of those ranks is John Podesta, currently a global climate envoy for Biden who was Clintons chief of staff and an environmental adviser to Obama.

Podesta said all three have tried to improve the lives of working Americans.

Each one of them, when they close the door on the Oval Office, thats what mattered to them the most, he said.

But their styles aren't the same. While Obama was more reserved, Biden and Clinton draw energy from chatting up people on rope lines and forging deep personal relationships.

Their relaxation is politics, Podesta said.

Panetta suggested that Biden, broadly unpopular in public polling, should try to pick up a few tips from his Democratic predecessors, both of whom served two terms.

The fundamental reason they got reelected is that they were able to connect with the American people, he said. Joe Biden clearly needs to do that.

The only living Democratic president who will not be in New York for the fundraiser is 99-year-old Jimmy Carter. A spokeswoman for Carter confirmed that he remains in home hospice care and is not making any public statements.

Carter's relationship with Biden goes back several decades. When Carter was running for president in 1976 as a little-known former governor of Georgia, Biden took a political risk by becoming the first sitting senator to endorse him.

Fundraisers, even with presidents, are usually small affairs. Dozens or sometimes hundreds of people gather in a wealthy person's living room or backyard to hear a speech from the candidate and maybe ask a few questions.

This one is in a different league. Thousands of people are expected at Radio City Music Hall to watch Stephen Colbert, the late-night talk show host, moderate a conversation with the three presidents. Celebrity guests  Cynthia Erivo, Mindy Kaling, Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Lea Michele and Ben Platt  will provide more star power.

The cheapest tickets are $225, making it more accessible than most fundraisers. But that's only the starting point. A photo with all three presidents is $100,000. Access to more intimate receptions will cost $250,000 or $500,000.

Campaign officials have not said how much they expect the event to raise. But they said a fundraiser featuring Biden and Obama in December raised nearly $3 million.

Trump, meanwhile, is also expected to be in the area Thursday, attending the Long Island wake of a New York City police officer who was shot and killed during a traffic stop in Queens.

The Trump campaign, which has struggled to keep pace with Biden's fundraising, scoffed at Thursdays event, dismissing it as a sign the president needs to "trot out some retreads like Clinton and Obama, in the words of spokesman Steven Cheung.

Eric Schultz, a senior adviser to Obama, said the former president will do all he can to support Biden and he looks forward to helping Democrats up and down the ballot make the case to voters this fall.

"Our strategy will be based on driving impact, especially where and when his voice can help move the needle," Schultz said.

The relationship between Obama and Biden has been personal as well as political. Obama offered to help Biden pay the family's medical bills when Biden's son Beau was struggling with cancer. After Beau's death in 2015, Obama gave a eulogy at the funeral, where he described his vice president as my brother.

Theyre like family to each other," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said recently.

___ Associated Press writer Bill Barrow in Atlanta contributed to this report.
President Biden is narrowly ahead of former President Trump in a new national poll, but the survey found Trump benefits from the inclusion of independent and third-party candidates.

A Quinnipiac University poll, released Wednesday, found Biden polling at 48 percent support and Trump at 45 percent in a head-to-head match-up between the major parties presumptive nominees. Those figures reflect a small change from February, when the same poll had Biden ahead of Trump 49-45 percent.

But the poll underscores the threat to Biden from third-party spoiler candidates. When the question is expanded to include independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and third-party candidates Jill Stein and Cornel West, Trump barely pulls ahead of Biden, 39-38. Kennedy Jr. polls at 13 percent support, with Stein at 4 percent and West at 3 percent, per the survey.

Way too close to call on the head-to-head and even closer when third-party candidates are counted, Quinnipiac University polling analyst Tim Malloy said. The backstretch is months away, and this is about as close as it can get. The poll surveyed 1,407 registered voters nationwide from March 21-25 and has a margin of error of 2.6 percentage points. The results reflect the latest indicator that Trump and Biden are likely headed for a close general election race. A new poll of battleground states released Tuesday showed Biden closing the gap on Trump, and even pulling ahead in Wisconsin. Meanwhile, Kennedy Jr. announced Tuesday that his running mate would be attorney and entrepreneur Nicole Shanahan, who could both provide a funding lift and aid with the candidates efforts to get on the ballot in states that require a running mate. The move prompted some backlash from Democrats, who accused Kennedy of helping the GOP by continuing to run against Biden.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 27. Kazakh Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu has held a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, during which they discussed the progressive development of the expanded Kazakhstan-US strategic partnership in the political, trade, economic, and humanitarian spheres, Trend reports citing the MFA.

Noting the balanced nature of the foreign policy of Kazakhstan, Foreign Minister Nurtleu paid special attention to the pragmatic implementation of transport and logistics, infrastructure, trade, and investment potential of Kazakhstan, including through attracting advanced American technologies, strengthening business contacts, and achieving mutually beneficial trade relations. Over the past year, trade between the countries increased by 33 percent, reaching $4 billion.

The Foreign Minister and Secretary of State highly valued the cooperation between the countries in the fields of energy security, critical minerals, climate, peacekeeping, etc.

Secretary Blinken welcomed the consistency of fundamental reforms initiated by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and underlined Washington's readiness to continue its full assistance in implementing the reforms. "The United States recognizes Kazakhstan's true leadership in many global issues," stated Blinken.

The parties also discussed opportunities to expand the "C5+1" dialogue and further implement the agreements of the first-ever Summit held in New York in September 2023.

In conclusion, the parties agreed to continue dialogue on relevant bilateral agenda issues.
President Biden said Tuesday he commuted by train or car over the Francis Scott Key Bridge "many, many times," despite the bridge not having any rail lines.

During a press conference Tuesday on the major bridge collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, Biden told reporters that he has been over the Francis Scott Key Bridge "many, many times" by train or car.

"At about 1:30 [a.m. Tuesday], a container ship struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which Ive been over many, many times commuting from the state of Delaware either on a train or by car," the president said.

"I've been to Baltimore Harbor many times," he added.

SEARCH AND RESCUE FOR AT LEAST 6 ONGOING AFTER BALTIMORE BRIDGE COLLAPSE

Joe Biden said he had traveled over the collapsed Francis Keys Bridge "many, many times" by both car or train, despite the structure not having any railway lines.

WATCH:

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In a statement, a White House official said that Biden was "clearly" describing driving.

"The President was clearly describing driving over the bridge while commuting between Delaware and D.C." the White House official said in a statement to Fox News Digital.

In an aerial view, the cargo ship Dali sits in the water after running into and collapsing the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday in Baltimore, Md.

The iconic bridge has never had any railway lines, and has been exclusively used as a roadway since it was built in the early 1970s.

According to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA), the Francis Scott Key Bridge opened in March 1977 as the final link to Interstate 695.

The 1.6-mile Key Bridge crosses over the Patapsco River, where Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the words of the national anthem "The Star Spangled Banner," the MDTA said.

President Biden addresses the Maryland bridge collapse in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Tuesday in Washington, D.C.

In recent months, Biden has dropped embarrassing gaffes.

On March 8, he appeared to mix up the office he was running for during a campaign stop at Strath Haven Middle School in Delaware County.

"Pennsylvania, I have a message for you: Send me to Congress!" Biden shouted at one point, appearing to mix up the office for which he's running.

BIDEN 'DID NOT REMEMBER WHEN HE WAS VICE PRESIDENT,' WHEN HIS SON BEAU DIED, DURING SPECIAL COUNSEL INTERVIEWS

In February, Biden claimed he spoke to late German Chancellor Helmut Kohl in 2021 while recalling past conversations.

Biden said that Kohl asked him what he would say if he learned 1,000 people stormed the British Parliament in an attempt to prevent the next prime minister from assuming office.

Kohl, however, did not attend the annual meeting, as he had been dead for four years when it took place. Instead, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel was at the gathering.

President Biden addresses the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore on Tuesday.

Also in February, the 81-year-old president also told a Las Vegas crowd that he met with Francois Mitterrand, a French president who has been dead for 28 years.

In the fall of 2022, Biden told a group of supporters he spoke to the man who "invented" insulin.

Insulin was co-discovered by Frederick Banting and John Macleod. Banting died in 1941, while Macleod passed away in 1935. Biden was born in 1942.





Original article source: Biden says he traveled 'many times' over vehicle-only Francis Scott Key Bridge while commuting by train or car
Joe Biden and Donald Trump are both in a world of hurt.

But who would you rather be?

Biden is an incumbent president seeking a second term with depressingly low approval numbers, especially among key components of the coalition that helped him win office four years ago.

Trump is a four-time indicted one-term former president with two crushing civil judgments levied against him this year who needs to focus his fundraising as much  if not more  on paying for his defense lawyers as on retaking the White House.

Biden at least holds a strong edge in fundraising over Trump, money he can use to lure back disaffected voters in the eight months until the general election.

A victory for Trump these days amounts to an appellate court ruling that he only has to put up $175 million as bond to appeal a New York civil case judgment that found his business finances were rife with fraud.

Trump's finances takes control of the RNC

The contrast is stark. Biden's campaign had just over $71 million in the bank at the end of February. Trump had $33.5 million by then. If you're Biden, a better than 2-to-1 advantage must feel pretty good.

The divide extends to the candidates' parties, too. The Democratic National Committee had $26.5 million on hand on Feb. 29. The Republican National Committee had $11.3 million in the bank. Another Democratic edge that exceeds 2-to-1.

Former President Donald Trump's New York criminal hush money trial will start with jury selection on April 15, 2024.

The finances for Trump and the RNC look even more grim when you consider the contortions his party is willing to endure to back him, perhaps at the expense of all those other Republicans seeking other offices in the Nov. 5 general election.

And the timing is off this year for the Republicans, after a primary season where no challenger came close to defeating Trump. The general election started in earnest even before Super Tuesday. We're off to the races. And Trump is behind when it comes to money, even as he fares better than Biden in some key swing-state polling.

The Associated Press noted last week that Trump's new joint fundraising effort with the RNC, known as the Trump 47 Committee, directs money from donors first to his campaign account and then to a political action committee called Save America that funds his legal defenses. Any leftovers go to the party.

Will religion influence 2024 election? Americans want a religious president. They just don't see Trump or Biden that way.

Trump only took full control of the RNC three weeks ago and already the party is a third-class participant in its own affairs. Not much of a shock there. His daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, made clear when she was seeking the post as co-chair that the party would be all about  and only about  Trump moving forward.

Trump's legal fees and problems continue to mount

The legal bills keep coming for Trump, now set to start his first criminal trial in mid-April, this one in New York over hush money payments to a porn star. He's accused of falsifying records to keep quiet an affair that threatened to besmirch his reputation during the 2016 election.

Trials also loom in Georgia related to attempts to overturn the 2020 election there, in federal court in Washington, D.C., over his behavior before and during the U.S. Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021, and in federal court in Florida on classified documents that he was required to return to the government after leaving office.

It's not all dark clouds. Trump's social media website, Truth Social, went public this week and his stake could be worth more than $4 billion on paper, which he could use to fund his own campaign if it becomes real cash. But the deal requires Trump to hold that stock for at least six months, unless the company's board grants him a waiver, which could tank the stock price.

That would be a look: Deflating a stock held by supporters.

Save America, which has been paying Trump's legal bills, has been kept alive by another Trump super PAC, MAGA Inc., which has transferred more than $52 million in just under nine months from last May to Feb. 1.

The lies that Trump tells: Trump supporters love the lies he spews during rallies. The rest of the voters won't.

Trump likes to portray his legal prosecutions as political persecution. That plays with his hard-core supporters. But his sex life is about to be thrust into a spotlight next month in a very expensive spectacle.

That's an ugly scene as voters mull which way to go.

Biden mocks Trump but has his own problems to fund

Biden, as you might imagine, is having some fun with that. His campaign on Tuesday proclaimed that he has visited every battleground state in the country while Trump has been largely sequestered at his Florida mansion in between trips to various courtrooms.

"Trump's campaign is weak and cash-strapped," Biden's campaign proclaimed.

The incumbent has a few weaknesses of his own. Poll after poll this year have shown Biden losing ground with Black and Latino voters, who are either drifting toward Trump or looking at third-party candidates.

President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the collapse of Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on March 26, 2024 in Washington, DC. The bridge collapsed after its support column was hit by a container ship overnight.

Trump sees the opportunity. The Washington Post reported Monday that Trump is urging Republicans in swing-state Michigan to increase their efforts to recruit Black voters in Detroit.

Biden sees the disadvantage of a crumbling coalition. His campaign is in the middle of a six-week, $30 million advertising blitz in swing states. The campaign on March 8 promised to "prioritize high-impact and non-traditional TV opportunities," including on Black- and Hispanic-owned outlets.

A pair of ads in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin launched recently to "underscore what a disaster Donald Trump was for Black America," Biden's campaign said. The campaign on Saturday hit the airwaves with an ad noting anti-Latino language that is a standard part of Trump's stump speech.

Will Biden's head start on campaign money help him in November?

Trump has legal vulnerabilities, and his money must follow his focus on that fight. According to a Politico Magazine/Ipsos poll last week, 2 in 5 Americans said a criminal conviction would affect their likelihood to support Trump in November.

More than a third of independents said conviction would reduce the chances of them voting for him.

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Biden has political vulnerabilities, and his money is being used to directly address them. Does he get there? He has less than eight months to close those gaps, to stitch back together his coalition.

A Bloomberg News/Morning Consult Poll released Tuesday showed Trump leading Biden in four swing states  Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and North Carolina  while the candidates were tied in two  Pennsylvania and Michigan  and Biden was ahead in Wisconsin.

That's not a great look for an incumbent. But Biden's numbers were on the rise in six of those seven states, compared with polls in November and January, growing more competitive with Trump in every state except Georgia.

Biden has the jump on money, and his early advertising efforts seem to be moving the needle on polling. Trump is still mired in a legal morass, heading into a salacious circus in New York next month, more akin to his time as a reality television character than his one term as president.

If you had to pick a circumstance, which would you rather have?

Follow USA TODAY elections columnist Chris Brennan on X, formerly known as Twitter: @ByChrisBrennan

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump has Truth Social stocks. Will it save his campaign funding?
In a recent interview with former President Donald Trump, CNBC's Joe Kernen called entitlement reform "a third rail of politics" and suggested "there's not a whole lot of difference" between Trump and President Joe Biden on the issue. The contretemps that followed confirmed the accuracy of both observations, illustrating yet again the bipartisan refusal to seriously address, or even acknowledge, the looming Social Security and Medicare crises.

"There is a lot you can do in terms of entitlements, in terms of cutting and in terms of also the theft and the bad management of entitlements," Trump said. The Biden campaign seized upon the comment as evidence that Trump wants to "slash Social Security and Medicare," and Trump denied any such plan, saying, "I will never do anything that will jeopardize or hurt Social Security or Medicare."

Biden likewise promised to "protect" both programs. "If anyone here tries to cut Social Security or Medicare or raise the retirement age," he vowed during his State of the Union address this month, "I will stop you."

Biden averred that "many of my friends on the other side of the aisle want to put Social Security on the chopping block." But the truth is that Republican House leaders, at Trump's urging, are disinclined to back serious entitlement reforms, fearing the political electrocution to which Kernen alluded.

Contrary to what Trump and Biden imply, it is impossible to "protect" Social Security and Medicare by doing nothing. Inaction will guarantee automatic benefit cuts in less than a decade.

In 2033, according to the latest projections, Social Security's trust fund "will become depleted," and "continuing program income will be sufficient to pay 77 percent of scheduled benefits." Two years before then, Medicare's hospital insurance trust fund "will be sufficient to pay 89 percent of total scheduled benefits."

(Peter G. Peterson Foundation)

The programs' trustees note that "lawmakers have many options for changes that would reduce or eliminate the long-term financing shortfalls." But Trump and Biden have ruled out nearly all of them.

Biden did allude to one possible Social Security reform in his State of the Union address, saying he would "protect and strengthen Social Security and make the wealthy pay their fair share." But as my Reason colleague Eric Boehm notes, raising the cap on income subject to the Social Security payroll tax, currently $168,600, would violate Biden's promise "not to raise taxes on anyone earning less than $400,000 annually" and would not "come close to solving the long-term Social Security shortfall."

Tackling "fraud and waste," the solution that Trump seemed to have in mind, would be worthwhile but likewise will not do the trick. In 2023, for example, House Republicans cited an estimate of "$16 billion in improper payments" by Social Security "over the last five years," which is real money but a drop in the bucket compared to the program's projected $4.5 trillion cash deficit during the next decade.

The basic problem with both programs is a mismatch between projected revenue and projected costs, driven by the shrinking ratio of workers to retirees. The only way to eliminate that gap is by increasing revenue, reducing outlays, or (more likely) both.

Those reforms could involve raising the retirement age, increasing payroll taxes on high-income Americans, or means-testing benefits, focusing on retirees who need financial support to cover their bills. As it stands, Social Security regressively transfers money from workers to retirees who are, on average, more affluent. That makes little sense if the aim is to prevent poverty among older Americans, which is how the program originally was framed.

It is no mystery why politicians are reluctant to propose such reforms. Last week, when the Republican Study Committee suggested gradually raising the minimum age for full Social Security benefits from 67 to 69, the White House immediately condemned that modest proposal.

The fear inspired by such attacks encourages politicians to continue kicking the can down the road. But the longer they wait, the more painful the inevitable reckoning will be.

 Copyright 2024 by Creators Syndicate Inc.

The post Biden and Trump Try To Wish Away the Looming Entitlement Crisis appeared first on Reason.com.
Tuesday saw the catastrophic collision of a cargo ship with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early in the morning. Later in the day, the search for six missing workers who plunged into the water following the bridges collapse was called off. The tragedy devastated Baltimores working-class Latino immigrant community; those lost were described as hard-working, humble men.

In response, President Joe Biden said that he had directed his team to move heaven and earth to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge as soon as humanly possible. But he also added that he and authorities in Maryland would work with our partners in Congress to get the plan the support it needs.

The presidents words are noble to be sure and under normal circumstances, this would spark immediate action. But anyone who has been following the 118th Congress knows normal does not exist.

For one, Congress just had a drawn-out fight about spending. Last week, the House and Senate passed the last of the spending bills for his current fiscal year. Their passage came six months late, thanks to Florida Man Matt Gaetzs decision to file a motion to vacate against former speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy with a band of seven other rebels, prompting every Democrat to join in.

As we all know, that did not lead to regular order or to Republicans passing spending bills on time, but rather three weeks of unmitigated chaos in the House. And as soon as the House finally did pass the spending bills, they rewarded themselves by leaving for a two-week recess.

As I wrote last week, new Speaker Mike Johnson learned he can simply ignore the far-right of his party and simply pass spending bills with the help of most  if not, all  Democrats. But Johnson finally paid a price last week when Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, the right-wing firebrand and vocal supporter of Donald Trump, filed a motion to vacate against him.

Greene knows that no incentive exists for a Republican speaker to actually work with Democrats. And for Baltimore, a city that Trump called a disgusting, rat- and rodent-infested mess and a very dangerous and filthy place? Forget it.

Indeed, Republicans have not responded to crises even in areas where they are seen as more sympathetic.

Republicans battered the Biden administration over the head last year for its lack of response to a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. They argued that Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg did not care about an area of the country that was incredibly white, poor and working-class. They criticized Biden for not visiting East Palestine and going instead to Ukraine. Their criticisms, when aimed at Buttigieg, were likely intended to damage any future presidential run the Transportation Secretary might make.

But Congress has abdicated its responsibilities to East Palestine, too. Despite support from Senators  ranging from Republicans like Josh Hawley, JD Vance and Marco Rubio to Democrats like Sherrod Brown and John Fetterman  rail safety legislation has gone nowhere.

The tax credit bill that passed the House but has languished in the Senate because of Republican objections to the expanded Child Tax Credit includes relief for families in East Palestine. Still, more than a full year after the derailment of a train in the community, little incentive exists to provide relief.

In the same way, despite widespread support among Republicans for Israel  largely driven by evangelical Christians who subscribe to end-times theological ideas about the country  House Republicans have been fully incapable of providing aid to the country after the October 7 attack. In fact, while 166 Democrats voted against standalone legislation to assist Israel largely on the grounds that it did not provide aid to Ukraine, 14 Republicans also killed it.

The only way the United States was able to provide any aid to Israel came through the spending bill last week, which provided $3.3 billion in grants only for Israel.

And this does not even begin to touch on the disastrous negotiations that took place during the end of last year and the beginning of this year, wherein Republicans held up aid to Israel and Ukraine in exchange for restrictions to immigration and additional security measures on the US-Mexico border. They then ultimately killed that legislation once Trump turned against it.

This stands in stark contrast to how Congress functioned not too long ago. As friend of Inside Washington Jake Sherman over at Punchbowl News flagged, after a bridge in Minnesota collapsed on August 1, 2007, the House passed $250 million in relief two days later on a 420-1 line. The Senate passed it with an amendment by unanimous consent and kicked it back to the House, and it arrived at George W Bushs desk five days after the collapse.

But that came when Democrats controlled the House and the Senate, and a Republican controlled the White House. Nowadays, Republicans who control the House have a lot of reasons to demagogue the president and complain about spending rather than actually finding solutions.
A bill's sponsor says that standing on a streambed could be trespassing under his proposal if the landowner has a land grant predating 1863. Photo contributed by Flint Riverkeeper

A proposal meant to ease concerns from the business community and property owners along Georgias rivers is awaiting the governors signature after receiving a final vote in the Senate Tuesday night.

The bill, sponsored by Waycross Republican Rep. James Burchett, is a follow-up measure to a bill passed in the final hours of last years session in response to a surprise legal settlement that gave a landowner exclusive fishing rights along a popular stretch of the Flint River.

Supporters say this years bill is needed to better balance the publics freedom to enjoy Georgias rivers with the private property rights of landowners. Agriculture industry groups have also expressed concerns that last years bill made them vulnerable to lawsuits.

But opponents argue the measure undermines last years effort to protect fishing and hunting access. They say anglers will lose access if they cannot wade on the streambed or drop an anchor on the river bottom where landowners hold a pre-1863 land grant. They say the proposal represents a step toward privatizing Georgias rivers, since they argue other landowners can and will follow suit and close off more public access to the states rivers.

Paddling groups have also raised concerns that the measure will indirectly limit their access to smaller streams.

The bill passed the Senate with a 34-to-18 vote that largely fell along party lines as this years legislative session winds down. Thursday is the last day for a bill to clinch final passage.

Sen. Elena Parent, an Atlanta Democrat, argued the bill creates ambiguity and confusion over what Georgians are allowed to do on the states navigable rivers, including routine activities like water quality monitoring.

It is much more unclear whether anglers, hunters and paddlers can touch privately owned streambeds. Its very nearly impossible to do those activities without touching the streambed, Parent said. And we should not set up a system where people can no longer use these navigable rivers that they have used for decades if an adjacent property owner all of a sudden decides the public cant drop an anchor or use fishing lures on the bottom.

Burchett said after Tuesdays Senate vote that the concerns about the bill are overblown, and he rejected claims his bill could lead to the privatization of Georgias rivers.

I think this is the best way you can thread the needle for private property rights that are on a river and our public right to fish, hunt and pass, he said. This is a very good compromise.

He boiled it down to two scenarios: one where a landowner has a pre-1863 land grant and one where they do not. If the property owner has a land grant predating 1863, then the publics access may be limited when it comes to those streambeds.

You have the absolute right to fish, hunt and pass, so you can float down the river, you can fish there, and you can hunt there, but you cannot stand on somebody elses land, Burchett said.

Supporters of broad public access were alarmed last week when Burchett said at a legislative committee meeting that standing on a streambed could be trespassing under his proposal if the landowner has a land grant dating back to before 1863.

But Burchett said Tuesday night that he is leaving room for the discretion of law enforcement.

A landowner says, Hey, this guys trespassing. Well, if the guy is out there drinking beer and throwing trash all over the place, and hes clearly not hunting and hes clearly not fishing and clearly not passing. Hes standing on the streambed and the owner of the property has a pre-1863 deed, Burchett said.

Then the enforcement agent can say, See you later, guy. Youre not either hunting, fishing or passing, he said. Now in the same scenario, when someone calls and says, Hey, these folks are out here paddling or theyre hunting or theyre fishing. That enforcement agent goes out there he looks and he sees clearly theyre hunting, theyre fishing or theyre paddling, and they have that right here.

The issue is a complex and emotionally charged one that involves centuries of legal history surrounding who owns what in Georgia.

Last years law started a new chapter. It asserted that the state became the owner of all navigable streambeds when Georgia became a state back in 1788. And while it also conceded that a private party can own a streambed in some cases, such as when there is a long-standing state grant to the property, the 2023 law said that those public rights to the flowing stream remain.

But the reaction to last years law was so intense that Gov. Brian Kemp issued a special statement defending his support and countering some of the concerns, like the fears over potential lawsuits. He directed those with concerns to participate in a study committee process led last year by Burchett.

This years bill says Georgians continue to have an inherent right to use for passage and for hunting and fishing all navigable streams from low-water mark to low-water mark even when the adjoining landowner holds a pre-1863 land grant. But their rights are limited to those three activities.

Even if Burchetts bill becomes law, this will not be the end of the issue. Burchett had a companion bill that attempted to spell out which waterways are navigable, but it has stalled. A new study committee has instead been proposed.

If a stream is deemed non-navigable, then the landowner can claim exclusive rights out to the center of the waterway. If they own both sides, then the entire stream bed is theirs.

Weve defined the right right here, Burchett said of this years bill. And we now want to define where that right can be used. So essentially, we can put a map up. And then I think that clears up most of the ambiguity, where people are not clear as to where they can hunt, fish and pass.

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The post Bill intended to clarify access to Georgias rivers and streams heads to governors desk appeared first on Georgia Recorder.
Traders at a market say they are worried about its future if is moved to a new location.

A decision over plans to move Birkenhead Market, Merseyside, into a former Argos store in the town will be made at a council meeting later.

Traders fear they are "witnessing the demise of Birkenhead as a market town".

Wirral Council said high footfall, transport links, and potential future housing developments in the area could see it become a success.

The authority's Regeneration Committee will decide whether to press ahead with the proposal to move the current market in from Grange Precinct to the former Argos store on Princes Pavements.

Market traders had asked for two options to be considered, including refurbishing the current market or moving it to St John's Pavement which is a busier area of town, according to a leaked report.

However the council report said both of these options were not deliverable either due to funds, size constraints, or the time it would take to deliver.

As of January 2024, 17,006 sq ft of the current market is occupied by 43 units.

Wirral Council has commissioned architectural firm Corstorphine and Wright, as well as market specialist Raymond Linch from Market North West Limited, who said the new market should include kitchens and bars, hairdressers and beauticians as well as fresh food and general stores.

In his report Mr Linch said "many of the traders are 'filling' their space" but believed only 5,000 square feet of lettable space was actually needed.

Joe Orr, the head of the market tenant's association said traders had previously been promised they would all be moving into the new market.

"This is now being taken away and I don't think the traders were aware of that and that there would be an application process for all traders," he said.

Tenants association vice-chair Greg McTigue said they were "witnessing the demise of Birkenhead as a market town", adding: "As far as we can see, they are just going to close what's left of the market when they want everybody to move but there's no provision for the larger store holders. For some people, it's their livelihoods. It's for people to pay their mortgage."

When previously asked why the council was putting Argos forward in December, Wirral Council leader Paul Stuart said the site had been put forward as it was a large building near to the current market.

He added: "The future of Birkenhead Market is of paramount importance. It will play a vital part in the regeneration plans for the town centre and the market must be delivered in the right way."

If planning is approved the market could move to the new site by February 2026.

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Birmingham-Southern College in Alabama to close at the end of May

Birmingham-Southern College announced Tuesday that its operations will cease by the end of May after the school failed to secure a loan from the state.

The colleges board of trustees voted Tuesday to close the school after they were informed a bill designed to amend the state program for loans to higher-education institutions lacked support in Alabamas House of Representatives.

This is a tragic day for the College, our students, our employees, and our alumni, said Rev. Keith D. Thompson, the chair of the board, in a statement. But it is also a terrible day for Birmingham, for the neighborhoods who have surrounded our campus for more than 100 years, and for Alabama.

The schools president, Daniel B. Coleman, said the college looked into every option to obtain a loan through the Distressed Institutions of Higher Learning Revolving Loan Fund, which was established after it was signed into law last June. The school applied for the loan but was denied in October 2023 by state Treasurer Young Boozer III.

The school maintained that it met all the statutory qualifications but was denied the loan regardless.

In an effort to get the loan approved, state Sens. Jabo Waggoner (R) and Rodger Smitherman (D) introduced a bill last month to amend the law that established the loan program. If passed, the bill would make the Alabama Commission on Higher Education administer the loan program instead of the treasurer.

The state Senate approved it, but the school said it lacked support in the state House. Boozer had opposed the new bill, according to reporting from AL.com.

My warning to this committee, the public, and especially to taxpayers, if you loan it, you will own it, Boozer said during a state House committee hearing earlier this month, according to the outlet.

Birmingham-Southern College, a private liberal arts institution, was founded in 1918 by the merger of two Methodist colleges. In its Tuesday announcement, the college said it has made plans for students who will be forced to transfer to other schools and is helping employees who will be displaced by May 31.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Birmingham-Southern College will close on May 31 after a nearly 18-month fight to keep the liberal arts school open.

BSCs Board of Trustees voted to shut the school down after legislative leaders told them that a bill to extend the private school a $30 million loan was unlikely to pass the Alabama House of Representatives.

More: How Mississippi's small colleges are working to ensure their viability amid challenges

This is a tragic day for the College, our students, our employees, and our alumni, said Board Chair Rev. Keith D. Thompson in a statement. But it is also a terrible day for Birmingham, for the neighborhoods who have surrounded our campus for more than 100 years, and for Alabama.

BSC faced declining enrollment and poor finances stemming from overbuilding, the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic. It had sought a bridge loan from the Legislature to continue operations.

The school said in a statement that it is making arrangements to maximize credit transfers for students.

Birmingham-Southern College faces financial struggles that officials say have brought the school to the brink of closure.

We are putting students first, and we will do everything we can to help them find the best place to continue their path to graduation, said Provost Dr. Laura K. Stultz in a statement.

The school said arrangements will be made for a small group of seniors planning to graduate Summer 2024 to finish their degrees. Meetings are scheduled with employees over the next few days.

Natalie Davis, a professor emerita of the college who had been there for 45 years, said Tuesday that she had received a slew of texts from former students.

Its a sad day for the college, she said.

Doug Turner, an alumnus of the school who had been involved in organizing alumni during the 2023 legislative session, said that he doesnt understand how the Legislature could have passed something last year but couldnt support it this year.

I guess that means that you dont really care what your constituents think or you dont think theyre watching, he said.

Ellen Potts, an alumna and executive director of the Tuscaloosa Habitat for Humanity, said that its a sad day for the state of Alabama.

It makes me sad for future generations who will not have access to that kind of quality education, she said.

Birmingham-area leaders expressed sadness and criticized the Legislature for failing to act. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said in a statement Tuesday that the closing was disappointing and heartbreaking.

Ive stood alongside members of our city council to protect this institution and its proud legacy of shaping leaders, the statement said. Its frustrating that those values were not shared by lawmakers in Montgomery.

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, released a statement on social media Tuesday that the school meant a lot to many people.

While no one had hoped for this outcome, the failure of state leaders to do their part and provide assistance to BSC is particularly disappointing, she wrote.

The Legislature last year passed a law to extend a loan to the school. The loan was considered all-but-guaranteed until last fall, when State Treasurer Young Boozer, who oversaw the program, declined to issue it. Boozer cited concerns with the schools long-term stability.

The school filed an unsuccessful lawsuit against the Treasurers Office after the denial.

Boozer wrote in an email Tuesday that I have already made the comments that were needed to be made.

A bill that would have changed administration of the program to the head of the Alabama Commission on Higher Education passed the Senate last month and got out of a House committee last week, but some lawmakers seemed doubtful of its chances.

A message was left Tuesday with Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia Hills, who sponsored the legislation.

Sen. Rodger Smitherman, D-Birmingham, who co-sponsored the legislation said he didnt want to give up hope, but said the news was a tragedy that would cost jobs and hurt businesses from the loss of students.

Rep. Danny Garrett, R-Trussville, who chairs the House Ways and Means Education Committee, overseeing the state budget, said Tuesday that the key to the legislation last year was the role of the State Treasurer as the gatekeeper to the program.

Apparently it was the case that removing the treasurer there just wasnt enough support in the House, he said.

Rep. Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham, whose district includes the school, said that everything was problematic with the bill and that the exclusion of the treasurer hurt its chances. She said she would never have believed that school was going to close on May 31, saying that the institution was too storied. She said she was very hurt.

Its a sad day for the state of Alabama but certainly for the city of Birmingham, she said. The school is called Birmingham-Southern.

Inside Higher Ed reported that 14 nonprofit four-year colleges closed in 2023, with a 15th essentially shutting down. The schools were mostly small, private, tuition-dependent and had small endowments. Ten of the 15 schools were also religiously affiliated.

The Hechinger Report reported in 2022 that 861 colleges had closed since 2004.

Birmingham-Southern College was founded in 1918 after the merger of Southern University, chartered in 1856, and Birmingham College, founded in 1910.

A message was left with the chair of the Senate education committee, Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur.

Givan, who had predicted last week that the bill would not pass, said that the work for the bill had been focused in the Senate with the sponsor, and there wasnt enough support in the House. She said the right stakeholders had not been involved.

Davis said that she had attended a liberal arts college, and it changed her life. She said that she wanted to do similar things. She said that the school has historically had students from rural communities who use their education to live successful lives, including law and medical school.

I think we were very successful over the years, she said.

Potts said that her family of four were all graduates of the school. She said she thought that a school that produced so many highly educated graduates would be something the state would want to preserve.

At a time when the brain drain of other colleges and universities in this state, of the graduates leaving the state at a time when that is well documented, theres no effort to keep this quality of graduate in state, she said.

Turner said that thousands of graduates who fought for last years bill thought the issue was settled, and that he thought this years bill was moving along until a decision was made, in his words, behind closed doors.

Frankly, we dont have a lot of people covering the Alabama Legislature day to day and maybe we should because theyre really surprised that this is what happened, he said. And I think that it is for those of us who wish to continue investing in our communities, with our presence and our participation, we need to look to our state legislators and say, What happened? 

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Birmingham-Southern College to close after 168 years
BlackRock BLK.N was issued a legal warning by the state of Mississippi over "false and misleading statements to Mississippi investors" tied to its environmental, social and governance (ESG) investment strategies, according to a 33-page document released on Wednesday.

The Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson and the state's Securities Division issued a 'summary cease and desist order' and served a warning to impose a multimillion-dollar administrative penalty on the New York-based money manager.

Mississippi's Secretary of State Michael Watson

Mississippi's legal warning comes after Florida, Louisiana and Missouri have previously said they plan to pull investment mandates from the company, citing concerns that include impact on investor returns due to BlackRock's ESG efforts.

The world's largest asset manager has been at the forefront of scrutiny in some Republican-run states over its ESG policies. CEO Larry Fink said last year it lost around $4 billion in assets under management as a result of the political backlash.

BlackRock CEO Larry Fink

"We operate in one of the most highly regulated industries in the country and are committed to following the law in every respect," BlackRock said in a statement to Reuters.

More: BlackRock CEO said 'retirement crisis' needs to be addressed for younger generations losing hope

"Our only agenda is maximizing risk-adjusted returns for the funds our clients choose to invest in," it added.

Last year, the U.S. state of Tennessee said it sued the asset manager, alleging it breached consumer protection laws and downplayed the extent to which ESG considerations drive the firm's investment strategies.

BlackRock managed $10 trillion in assets as of Dec 31, 2023 and served clients in over 100 countries across the globe.

(Reporting by Mehnaz Yasmin in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri)

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: BlackRock issued warning by Mississippi over statements tied to ESG funds
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  From 2020 to 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rounded up and removed 50,000 wild horses and burros, primarily in Nevada.

The BLM said Monday it estimates the current population in the state at 38,023  33,338 horses and 4,685 burros. Overall, the population on all public lands across the country is estimated at 73,520, a decline of 9,363 from levels estimated for 2022.

Though this latest estimate represents the largest one-year reduction in overpopulation since 1985, the estimated population remains nearly three times what scientists estimate public lands can sustainably support, according to a BLM news release.

Humane roundups: BLM files response in Nevada wild horse lawsuit

The BLM plans to round up and remove 20,000 more wild horses and burros over the next year with a goal of treating 1,400 horses with fertility control drugs. About 10,000 of the horses and burros will be put into the adoption and sale program.

That level  20,000  will be necessary to maintain herds and reduce the population of horses on the range, according to the BLM.

Credit: Wild Horse Education

American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) slammed the BLM in a statement Tuesday, criticizing the agencys plans proof of a failed management system.

AWHC argued that BLM should be putting more emphasis on reversible fertility control drugs administered with darts. BLM should end helicopter roundups that traumatize the animals and leave tens of thousands of animals confined in holding pens.

This is not sustainable conservation of these national icons, AWHC Executive Director Suzanne Roy said. Its time for Congress to require humane and less costly in-the-wild methods that preserve the freedom of Americas federally protected wild horses.

Legal battle set at ground zero for BLMs wild horse roundups in Nevada

Roys organization said BLMs news release doesnt disclose the real results of roundups: 64,000 wild horses and burros confined in holding facilities with a potential cost to taxpayers of more than $1 billion. AWHC also said the BLM hides that its controversial cash incentive adoption program has sent truckloads of these iconic animals into the slaughter pipeline.

Continuing costly, large-scale helicopter roundups is a flawed, excessive, and inhumane policy that places an unmanageable burden on an inadequate holding and adoptions system and on U.S. taxpayers, Roy said. The program also comes at a high cost to these wild, free-roaming animals who are captured, traumatized, robbed of their freedom, and will spend the rest of their lives in captivity, or worse, will end up at slaughter plants in Canada and Mexico.

A colt struggles to stand after hurting its leg while fighting to get away from wranglers during a BLM roundup on the East Pershing Complex in Northern Nevada on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024. (Courtesy: Wild Horse Education)

The roundups have put negative attention on the BLM, with videos showing several horses injured over the past year. Those horses had to be killed due to the severity of their injuries.

U.S. Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., has led efforts in Congress to prioritize in-the-wild conservation by prioritizing fertility control. Over the last two fiscal years, Congress has allocated over $20 million to support that approach, according to AWHC.

Titus issued a statement in late January, but BLM plans released Monday fall short of the direction she suggested.

Colt killed after injuring leg escaping BLM roundup, event captured on video

Despite a massive increase in roundups throughout the West, BLMs plan shows no increases in the number of wild horses and burros being treated with fertility control, Titus said. This creates an influx of horses into already overcrowded holding pens, and inevitably leads to more deaths for these icons of the West through the cruel use of helicopters during roundups. This plan is inconsistent with Congressional directives regarding the humane treatment of wild horses on our public lands, and I strongly urge BLM to reconsider the scope of their gather operation in the following months.

Titus has also criticized the BLMs decisions to kill some horses because of injuries such as blindness in one eye.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
LANCASTER  A 17-year-old Bloom-Carroll High School student will tour with the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corp. this summer.

Stephen Stange, 17 of Lancaster, wears his Bloom-Carroll Marching Bulldogs band uniform stands inside of Cheers Chalet on Mar. 18, 2024, in Lancaster, Ohio. Stephen is the conductor for the Bloom-Carroll Marching Bulldogs and the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Core. He is raising six thousand dollars to tour with the Blue Star Drum and Bugle Core this summer around d the United States.

Stephen Stange was field commander for the Bloom Carroll Marching Band for two years and also plays euphonium in the Bloom Carroll Symphonic Band. After graduation, he will fly to Iowa to train with the unit for four weeks before touring the country and competing against other drum squads for eight weeks.

The finals will be at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. The trip will cost Stange $6,000.

"Yeah, we auditioned to pay $6,000," Stange said. "You have to be a certain type of crazy to want to do drum corps. I'm paying $6,000 to sleep on a gym floor and a tour bus for my whole summer."

He works as a wedding server and owns his own auto detailing service and has raised $4,000 of the money.

Stephen Stange, 17 of Lancaster, wears his Bloom-Carroll Marching Bulldogs band uniform stands inside of Cheers Chalet on Mar. 18, 2024, in Lancaster, Ohio. Stephen is the conductor for the Bloom-Carroll Marching Bulldogs and the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Core. He is raising six thousand dollars to tour with the Blue Star Drum and Bugle Core this summer around d the United States.

Those wanting to help Stange raise the rest of the money can do so by donating at https://www.flipcause.com/secure/fundraiser/Njc0MTg=/94835.

Once the summer is over Stange wants to pursue a biology degree at Ohio University and maybe attend medical school someday. He said he will not audition for the OU marching band, but he does plan on auditioning for the school's orchestra.

Along with his high school music activities, Stange is a student at Fairfield County Strings and Keyboards.

jbarron@gannett.com

740-681-4340

Twitter/X: @JeffDBarron

This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: Bloom-Carroll student to tour and compete with drum and bugle unit
The U.S. is negotiating to increase purchases of explosives from Turkey to boost the production of artillery shells amid allies' efforts to provide Ukraine with ammunition, Bloomberg reported on March 27, citing unnamed officials familiar with the matter.

Ukraine is facing critical shell shortages, as $60 billion in funding from the U.S. remains stuck in Congress. Delays in military assistance have already had a direct impact on the battlefield, contributing to the loss of the key front-line city of Avdiivka.

Turkish supplies of trinitrotoluene (TNT) and nitroguanidine, which is used as fuel, would be "crucial" in the production of NATO-standard 155 mm shells and could potentially triple production, sources told Bloomberg.

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The production lines of the Turkish defense company Repkon are expected to produce about 30% of all U.S.-made 155 mm artillery ammunition by 2025, according to Bloomberg.

The Pentagon also purchased 116,000 rounds of ammunition from the Turkish company Arca Defense for deliveries this year, with further purchases expected next year, the news agency's sources said.

Unnamed Western officials told Bloomberg that ammunition production in the U.S. and Europe could "significantly increase" in 2025 and the year after as major defense companies and smaller suppliers start to ramp up production.

Russia is producing close to 250,000 artillery munitions monthly, or around 3 million per year, which is nearly three times as many artillery munitions as the U.S. and Europe can send to Ukraine, CNN reported, citing NATO intelligence estimates and unnamed sources familiar with the matter.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
By Kate Holton

LONDON (Reuters) - Victorious rowers in Britain's University Boat Race have been warned not to jump into the River Thames this weekend due to alarming levels of E. coli bacteria, as official data showed sewage spills hit a record high in 2023.

Regular dumping of raw sewage in rivers and seas has sparked anger in Britain, with privatised water companies accused of failing to invest in infrastructure, meaning they are routinely dumping sewage in waterways.

Data released on Wednesday showed that raw sewage was discharged for more than 3.6 million hours in 2023, more than double the previous year. That has taken a toll on the River Thames which hosts the annual Boat Races between Oxford and Cambridge University students.

The winning crews have traditionally splashed water as they crossed the finish line and thrown the team's cox into the river. This year, organisers have urged greater caution after a campaign group found high levels of bacteria present.

River Action said testing showed E. coli levels up to 10 times higher than the level the country's Environment Agency considers to be "poor", the bottom of four categories it has for rating bathing water areas.

"We have put in place a series of precautionary measures this year to protect the health of our athletes," organisers said in a statement ahead of the famous race on Saturday.

The guidance includes covering up open wounds, regular hand-washing and a cleansing station at the finish area. It also highlights the risks of entering the water.

The fouling of Britain's waterways has become a huge area of contention ahead of an election expected this year, raising questions about the privatisation of core infrastructure, a focus on profit over investment and the role of regulators.

With wild water swimmers and surfers falling ill, and biodiversity taking a hit, the government has promised to clamp down on the dumping of sewage, which is only supposed to happen during exceptional rainfall to stop it backing up into homes.

The Environment Agency noted that 2023 had been the sixth wettest year since records began in 1836. Campaigners say water companies are discharging much more often than they should, including when there has been no rain.

British water companies last year pledged to invest 10 billion pounds ($12.6 billion) this decade to reduce waste outflows, but that sum is subject to agreement from the regulator Ofwat which is due to make a decision this year.

($1 = 0.7920 pounds)

(Additional reporting by Sarah Young, editing by Ed Osmond)
EAST NORWEGIAN TOWNSHIP, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) Investigators have identified the remains of a man found in Schuylkill County.

On January 11, state police say they were called to the woods in the area of Tunnel Road, East Norwegian Township, to help police identify a body.

Coroner called near TGI Fridays in Wilkes-Barre

Over two months later, investigators said they were able to identify the remains as 51-year-old Walter Gera through the use of dental and medical records.

Troopers noted that there was no foul play suspected in Geras death.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun could walk away with a $24m compensation package after quitting following a string of incidents that have sparked major safety concerns.

Mr Calhoun announced on Tuesday he would be resigning from his role as CEO at the end of the year following what he described as a watershed moment for Boeing after a panel on the side of an Alaska Airlines plane blew out mid-flight.

The shocking incident has resulted in investigations from the Federal Aviation Administration, the Department of Justice, and the National Transportation Safety Board.

We must continue to respond to this accident with humility and complete transparency. We also must inculcate a total commitment to safety and quality at every level of our company, Mr Calhoun wrote in a memo posted on Boeings website.

The incident led to the grounding of all Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft, with a preliminary investigation finding that several critical bolts had been missing from the panel before take-off, calling into question Boeings manufacturing practices.

The companys share price also fell by nine per cent following the incident.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun could get $24m compensation package after quitting (Getty Images)

But Boeings problems did not start or end with the Alaska Airlines incident. The company has been embroiled in previous safety concerns over the 737 Max 8 after two of the planes crashed in 2018 and 2019 resulting in the deaths of all passengers and crew.

But despite the companys previous scandals, Mr Calhoun will likely leave his job with a sizeable payout, according to reports.

The Boeing CEO is reportedly guaranteed around $24m when he steps down, thanks to shares he owns and additional stock options.

Mr Calhoun holds nearly 70,000 Boeing shares outright, more than 25,000 phantom shares, and another 175,000 options, Ben Silverman, vice president of research at financial software company VerityData, told Fortune.

Based on the current stock price, Mr Calhoun could rake in $19.2m in payouts over the next ten years.

Meanwhile, if his departure is considered a retirement, he would be entitled to an additional $5m payout based on a portion of restricted stock.

Following the announcement of his resignation, in an interview with CNBC, Mr Calhoun partly blamed his departure on his age, but insisted his decision to step down was 100 per cent his own.

Ive entered my fifth year, he said, referring to his time at Boeing. At the end of this year, Ill be close to 68 years old.

But it is still uncertain if his departure will be considered a retirement after Boeings board extended the CEOs mandatory retirement age from 65 to 70 in 2021.

A Boeing spokesperson told The Independent that details of Mr Calhouns compensation package will be shared in the coming weeks.

Mr Calhoun was paid a base salary of $1.4m in 2022, according to an April regulatory filing. The same year, he made $22.5m overall, Business Insider reported, owing to his stock position.

However, the Boeing CEO missed out on a $7m bonus last year after failing to get Boeings new 777X aircraft into service by the end of 2023.
The resignation of Boeing CEO David Calhoun is raising questions about the future of the embattled aircraft company as it navigates fallout from the high-profile blowout earlier this year.

Calhoun announced Monday he would be stepping down as CEO at the end of the year. Brought in to help fix Boeing following fatal 737 Max 8 crashes in 2018 and 2019, Calhoun departs amid another crisis after the fuselage panel of a 737 Max 9 blew off during an Alaska Airlines flight in January.

Boeing also announced that board Chair Larry Kellner will step down later this year and would be succeeded by Steve Mollenkopf. Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, retired effective immediately and was replaced by Stephanie Pope.

Ashley Fulmer, assistant professor of managerial science at the Robinson College of Business at Georgia State University, told The Hill that the leadership shakeup provides a visible signal to show that Boeing is taking accountability.

However, it is a strategy that Boeing has used repeatedly, without successfully addressing their safety problems, Fulmer added.

Boeing fired Calhouns predecessor, Dennis Muilenburg, in 2019 in the aftermath of the two fatal crashes involving Boeing 737 Max jetliners that killed 346 people.

With the rapid succession of CEOs, its possible that lawmakers and regulators will question who bears the ultimate responsibility for the accidents and the plan for addressing the problems. In other words, who is going to make sure that Boeing will adhere to the new requirements and demands for change? Fulmer said.

Robert Bird, a professor of business law at the University of Connecticut, told The Hill that Boeings change in leadership is not enough to fix its problems.

Boeing must undergo a long and difficult process of changing the culture under which it operates. Safety and quality must be second to none, Bird said.

When asked for comment, a Boeing spokesperson pointed to the companys previous pledge to be as transparent as possible while focusing on safety and on quality.

Regulators and lawmakers are pushing to increase oversight of the company in the wake of the accident.

Recent investigations by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and aviation experts found significant gaps and confusion surrounding Boeings safety culture and policies.

FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker has raised concerns with issues around the safety culture at Boeing.

Their priorities have been on production, and not on safety and quality. So what we really are focused on now is shifting that focus from production to safety and quality, Whitaker said in an interview last week.

The Department of Justice has also launched a criminal investigation after the company admitted it couldnt find records that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) requested for factory work done on the panel.

Boeing also faces several lawsuits filed by shareholders who allege they were misled about serious safety lapses, and passengers in the wake of the blowout.

In a letter to employees Monday, the CEO called the accident a watershed moment for Boeing and called for the company to respond with humility and complete transparency.

In the wake of the 2018 and 2019 crashes, Boeing also revamped its lobbying operation, which has been key in helping the companys presence among policymakers during this period of renewed scrutiny.

Boeing has built one of the biggest lobbying operations in Washington, spending $14.5 million on federal lobbying in 2023 and managing an operation of 109 registered lobbyists, including five former members of Congress. Theres already been one major change to the roster this year, with Boeing parting ways with Cornerstone Government Affairs after nearly 14 years.

A Boeing spokesperson also previously told The Hill that the airline giants in-house lobbying team has contacted every member of Congress since the January blowout.

In his letter Monday, Calhoun acknowledged Boeing must inculcate a total commitment to safety and quality at every level of our company.

Calhoun has committed to come up with a plan that would deliver profound change at the company.

Whoever succeeds Calhoun will inherit promises of reform adopted in the wake of the latest crisis facing Boeing.

Several names have been floated for Calhouns replacement, including General Electric CEO Lawrence Culp, Boeing director and Carrier CEO David Gitlin, Northrop Grumman CEO Kathy Warden and Pope, the newly appointed president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Forbes reported.

Questions about who will ensure Boeing sticks to those reforms may lead to calls in Washington for promises, commitments, and compliance that are more tangible than words and plans, as top leaders are seen as temporary figureheads in rotation, Fulmer noted.

But ultimately, Bird said, engineers who care about safety and quality must lead the way.

The company must fundamentally reorient its goals and practices. If they dont, it is only a matter of time before Boeing faces even more difficulties, Bird said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of a Fullerton bank Tuesday night.

Fullerton police responded to reports of a bank robbery at a Wells Fargo located on the 100 block of West Bastanchury Road at around 5:09 p.m.

The male suspect, believed to be in his 70s, had entered the bank and demanded money from the teller, police said. He reportedly told the teller that he had a bomb while showing a white box that appeared to contain an explosive device.

He then threatened to detonate the device, authorities said. At the time, the bank was still

open and there were employees and a customer inside.

They were immediately evacuated as officers, bomb squad members and SWAT team personnel swarmed the shopping plaza and surrounded the bank.

Witness video captured the hectic moment as people were running from the building. The suspect eventually exited the front entrance while holding the box and other items in his hands. Thats when he was fatally shot by officers.

A suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of a Fullerton bank on March 26, 2024. (OC Hawk)

A suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of a Fullerton bank on March 26, 2024. (OC Hawk)

The Wells Fargo bank in Fullerton where a male suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted an evacuation on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

A remote-controlled robot and drone investigate possible suspicious devices near the suspect on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

A remote-controlled robot and drone investigate possible suspicious devices near the suspect on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

SWAT team members surround a Wells Fargo bank in Fullerton following a bomb threat and attempted robbery on March 26, 2024. (OC Hawk)

A suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of a Fullerton bank on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

Remote-controlled robots and drones carefully enter and inspect a Wells Fargo bank after a bomb threat on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

Remote-controlled robots and drones carefully enter and inspect a Wells Fargo bank after a bomb threat on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

A remote-controlled robot enters to inspect a Wells Fargo bank after a bomb threat on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

Robots inspect a vehicle possibly belonging to the suspect on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

Officers enter to inspect a Wells Fargo bank after a bomb threat on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

SWAT team members surround a Wells Fargo bank in Fullerton following a bomb threat and attempted robbery on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

Bomb squad members prepare robots to inspect a Wells Fargo bank in Fullerton after a bomb threat on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

Bomb squad members prepare robots to inspect a Wells Fargo bank in Fullerton after a bomb threat on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

A suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of a Fullerton bank on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

A suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of a Fullerton bank on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

The Wells Fargo bank in Fullerton where a male suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted an evacuation on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

A suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of a Fullerton bank on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

A suspect was killed after a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of a Fullerton bank on March 26, 2024. (KTLA)

A Wells Fargo bank in Fullerton, California. (OC Hawk)

A witness who saw the encounter play out recalls feeling scared for her safety.

Police had their guns drawn and the door to the bank opened and the [suspect] came out, recalled Jessica Serne, a witness. They said, Drop! but he didnt listen, so they shot him. One shot and that was that.

Officers arrived within two minutes and began attempting to evacuate employees, explained Sgt. Ryan ONeil with Fullerton police. Witnesses inside the bank stated the suspect produced what appeared to be an explosive device. Upon exiting the bank, an officer-involved shooting occurred.

The man, who was seen lying on the ground near the front doorway, was unresponsive as bomb squad technicians from the Orange County Sheriffs Department sent in a robot and drone to investigate the white box and several items found near him.

3 L.A. County residents stole over $2.5 million in Target gift cards

Eventually, a remote-controlled robot was seen picking up a portion of the suspicious items and bringing it back to officers for analysis.

Several more drones and robots were seen entering the bank to clear the scene before officers eventually entered. Robots and a police K-9 investigated a parked car that may have belonged to the suspect.

Officers cordoned off the entire shopping plaza as the investigation remained ongoing. No employees or officers were injured during the incident, police confirmed.

The witness said she was stunned that such an incident could happen in Fullerton.

The suspects identity was not released. The Orange County Coroner will confirm his identity pending the notification of the next of kin.

The deadly incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Fullerton PD Detective N. Kaprielian at 714-738-6763.

Anonymous tips can be provided to OC Crime Stoppers at 1-855-847-6227 or online at occrimestoppers.org.

Footage of the scene can be viewed in the video player above.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
ANTIOCH, Tenn. (WKRN)  An 18-year-old Antioch High School student faces a felony charge after school officials said he threatened to blow up the school.

According to an arrest report, Richard Byers was one of multiple students who were searched due to excessive lateness.

Spring Hill fake bomb threat leads to swatting call investigation

While searching the students, Byers allegedly told the assistant principal, I dont have guns, I have bombs. The assistant principal said he tried to ignore the him, but Byers then stated, Im going to blow up the school, according to an arrest report.

Authorities responded to the school and reported multiple students in the hallways told officers that another kid had said something to the effect of having a bomb or explosives.

| READ MORE | Latest headlines from Nashville and Davidson County

An arrest report states Byers was brought to the SRO office to be questioned about the incident. During a search, officers found two vapes that tested positive for THC, according to school security.

Byers was arrested and allegedly admitted to officers that he made the statements as a joke. He was charged with threat of violence in school and false report, which is a felony charge.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

According to court records, Byers was booked into Metro Jail shortly after 12 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26. He was released the same day just after 10 p.m., records show.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Shelby County Criminal Court Judge Melissa Boyd was given her second public reprimand in late October. She has since been referred to the Tennessee General Assembly for further action, which could include removal.

Embattled Shelby County Criminal Court Judge Melissa Boyd had her bond revoked Wednesday morning after prosecutors said she failed a drug test and told the judge overseeing her criminal case that she had missed several reporting dates that were part of her bond conditions.

Boyd, who had been out on bail since being indicted for harassment and coercion of a witness in December, was required to submit to random drug tests and report to pretrial services regularly.

The judge had entered into a rehabilitation facility and was released in late February, so she had not been drug tested up to that point. When she took her first drug test, she tested positive for cocaine and alcohol, prosecutors said. She was then required to take a second test three days after the first, and Senior Judge Roy Morgan  who was assigned to preside over the case  said Wednesday her second test results were "almost identical" for cocaine.

"A lot of effort has been offered and it's just not working," Morgan said as he ruled to revoke Boyd's bond. "And that's sad, just so sad."

More: TN legislative committee recommends embattled Shelby County judge be removed from office

Arthur Horne III, one of Boyd's attorneys, said that Boyd "needs help" and has not been cooperating with them, saying the judge was "in a full relapse" and is "not thinking with a clear head."

District Attorney Frederick Agee, who represents Crockett, Gibson and Haywood counties and is prosecuting the case, said that Boyd's bond should be revoked as a safety measure, calling it "shock incarceration" that might set her on a better path.

"There is one person in this courtroom that could save the defendant's life and I'm looking at him," Agee said to Morgan Wednesday morning.

Boyd's other attorney, Carlissa Shaw, said shock incarceration would not solve Boyd's addiction diagnosis.

"Sure, shock incarceration may work for someone who is intentionally trying to avoid accountability," Shaw said. "But shock incarceration isn't for someone that is ill. Doctors, hospitals, medical personnel, that is where someone goes to get healthy."

Shaw also pointed to a statistic that 18% of attorneys in Tennessee are dealing with some type of addiction, and that it is a daily struggle to overcome.

"There is no easy solution to overcome it," she said. "You don't take the shot, you don't take the medicine and wake up one day magically cured. That's not how this disease works. It's not how it presents itself."

Wednesday was also the deadline for Boyd to enter a plea deal, but her attorneys requested more time for a deal to be reached. In court, prosecutors said that they had extended a plea deal to Boyd and her attorneys, but have not heard back. Horne said the reason for not responding to the plea was Boyd's relapse.

With her bond revoked, Boyd will remain in jail for just under a month unless a plea is reached before her April 24 trial date.

Boyd's future as a judge is also in question with the Tennessee General Assembly slated to vote on her removal on April 4, The Daily Memphian reported Tuesday. Her removal was recommended by the Board of Judicial Conduct, which oversees a judge's ethics in Tennessee. The board can reprimand a judge, but that is the limit to its power. Only the General Assembly can remove or alter the pay of a sitting judge.

Boyd has received multiple reprimands from the board since being elected in 2022. The reprimands stem from Boyd soliciting money for a school using a picture of her in her judicial robe, allegations of harassing another woman, alcohol abuse, and having a marijuana and cocaine addiction.

One reprimand required Boyd to receive treatment, which the board said she did not enter into until after her indictment.

Many of the accusations come from a woman who told the board she was Boyd's campaign manager. Boyd has since denied that she had a campaign manager, saying that the two women were in a relationship at one point.

Boyd has been suspended for months, still collecting a paycheck from the state, which the board has estimated to be about $17,000 a month.

According to the board, Boyd would show up at the campaign manager's home and berate her. The campaign manager said Boyd tried to have her recant her statements to the oversight board, telling the manager to "shut up" and "not mess with her because she's a judge."

Boyd also would text the campaign manager information about the woman's divorce, the board said.

Lucas Finton is a criminal justice reporter with The Commercial Appeal. He can be reached at Lucas.Finton@commercialappeal.com, or (901)208-3922, and followed on X, formerly known as Twitter, @LucasFinton.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Bond revoked for indicted Shelby County Judge Melissa Boyd
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Bond was revoked for Shelby County Judge Melissa Boyd Wednesday after she failed a drug test.

Boyd appeared in court Wednesday morning. The judges order means she will remain in custody until her trial is set to happen within 30 days.

The state submitted lab results showing alcohol and cocaine present in Judge Boyds system, for two separate drug screenings on March 12 and 15 while disregarding three additional screenings.

Judge Melissa Boyd: What led to her possible removal

Judge Morgan said to her defense, they cant take her home to babysit her. The state claims Boyd is thumbing her nose at the court by disregarding her bond conditions.

She is basically thumbing her nose at the court saying I am not going to do one thing that you ordered me to do. I am not going to call into pre-trial supervision. I am not going to go by the office, I am not going to submit to drug screens  I am not going to stop using cocaine, said Nina Seiler, Asstistant District Attorney 28th Judicial District.

Boyd was escorted out of court! Her defense lawyers followed. @3onyourside pic.twitter.com/o0zDa1Xf0R  Jerrita Patterson (@JerritaP_OnTv) March 27, 2024

Boyds defense team says, She needs help, and must be clean and sober before moving forward.

Ms. Boyd is in a full relapse. I think thats very obvious to the court, said Art Horne, Boyds Defense Attorney. Putting Ms. Boyd in jail and letting her detox and whatever doesnt fix the long-term problem.

This is where the two sides share two different opinions  with prosecutors passionately proclaiming that Boyd has not responded to the help that was offered. Prosecutors insist now it must be ordered.

There is one person in this courtroom that could potentially save the defendants life and I am looking at him, said Frederick Agee, District Attorney General 28th Judicial District. I am very much compassionate about helping people and our office is helping people.

Still, Boyds defense teams argue the environment could impact the outcome.

We do see this as a medical issue and people go to detox, there are actually facilities for detoxing and you do that in a very controlled environment, said Carlissa Shaw, Boyds Defense Attorney.

In the end, Judge Morgan says essentially his hands are tied.

A lot of help has been offered, and its just not working, and thats so sad, said Judge Roy Morgan.

A final ruling cited Boyd violated the terms of her bond condition resulting in her going back to jail.

State says Shelby County judge accused of drug use should be removed

Back in December, Boyd was indicted and taken into custody on charges of coercion of a witness and harassing her campaign manager. She has remained free since then on a $5,000 bond.

Boyd was elected in 2022 but has spent much of that time off the bench after suspension, allegations of drug use, and time spent in treatment.

The states Judicial Conduct Board recommended her for removal this year, something the General Assembly is supposed to take up soon.

The Judicial Conduct Board said Boyd did check into a treatment facility earlier this year for what they called severe alcohol, cannabis, and cocaine abuse.

There is more than enough to suggest that this particular jurist is unfit to sit as a criminal court judge in the state of Tennessee. The cocaine problem alone is hugely problematic, said the boards chairman in a previous hearing.

In a statement, Boyds attorney Art Horne said Boyd is committed to resolving her case and staying in recovery so that she can be in a healthy space.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 27. Kazakhstan's Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu met with US Trade Representative Katherine Tai in Washington and invited her to take part in the Astana International Forum, Trend reports, citing the MFA.

During the meeting, the minister also informed about the priorities of the new government of Kazakhstan, the current dynamics of trade relations, and measures to ensure food security in the region.

Nurtleu noted that Kazakhstan is a reliable trading partner for the US.

In turn, Katherine Tai highly appreciated the pace of development of the Kazakh economy, noting its commitment to pragmatically building bilateral cooperation.

The interlocutors also paid attention to the high level of interaction between Kazakhstan and the US within the framework of the World Trade Organization, as well as Kazakhstans support for the efforts of countries in the region to join this organization.

At the same time, the parties noted the high potential for the development of transit and transport connectivity in Kazakhstan and the region.

In addition, at the initiative of the Kazakh side, an agreement was reached to hold the upcoming meeting of the Council on the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) between the countries of Central Asia and the US in Astana.

At the end of the meeting, the parties agreed to continue dialogue on key issues in bilateral and multilateral formats, as well as to use the experience of American partners to strengthen regional supply chains.

The Astana International Forum is a non-profit organization based in Astana, Kazakhstan, that provides an international and regional communication forum. It was previously known as the Astana Economic Forum and has been organized by the Kazakh government since 2008.

The next Astana International Forum will take place on June 13-14, 2024.
FILE - Naomi Klein arrives for a news conference at the Vatican on July 1, 2015. Books about how the dizzying impact of the internet and artificial intelligence are among finalists for a new book prize that aims to help fix the gender imbalance in nonfiction publishing. The six-book shortlist for the inaugural Womens Prize for Nonfiction, announced Wednesday, includes Canadian author-activist Naomi Kleins plunge into online misinformation, Doppleganger, and British journalist Madhumita Murgias Code-Dependent: Living in the Shadow of AI. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini, File)

LONDON (AP)  Books about the dizzying impact of the internet and artificial intelligence are among finalists for a new book prize that aims to help fix the gender imbalance in nonfiction publishing.

The shortlisted six books for the inaugural Womens Prize for Nonfiction, announced on Wednesday, include Canadian author-activist Naomi Kleins Doppleganger, a plunge into online misinformation, and British journalist Madhumita Murgias Code-Dependent: Living in the Shadow of AI.

The 30,000 pound ($38,000) award is a sister to the 29-year-old Womens Prize for Fiction and is open to female English-language writers from any country in any nonfiction genre.

The finalists also include autobiographical works  poet Safiya Sinclairs How to Say Babylon: A Jamaican Memoir and British art critic Laura Cummings Thunderclap: A Memoir of Art and Life and Sudden Death.

Rounding out the list are British author Noreen Masuds travelogue-memoir A Flat Place, and Harvard history professor Tiya Miles All That She Carried, a history of American enslavement told through one Black familys keepsake.

British historian Suzannah Lipscomb, who is chairing the judging panel, said that the readers of these books will never see the world  be it through art, history, landscape, politics, religion or technology  the same again.

The winners of both nonfiction and fiction prizes will be announced at a ceremony in London on June 13.

The prize was set up in response to a gender imbalance in the book world, where men buy more nonfiction than women  and write more prize-wining nonfiction books

The company Nielsen Book Research found in 2019 that while women bought 59% of all the books sold in the United Kingdom, men accounted for just over half of adult nonfiction purchases.

Prize organizers say that in 2022, only 26.5% of nonfiction books reviewed in Britains newspapers were by women, and male writers dominated established nonfiction writing prizes.
The News

The brain-computer interface wars have begun.

For years, startups and academic researchers have been experimenting on humans and animals with placing sensors on or near the brain to deepen our understanding of the bodys most mysterious and complicated organ.

Last week, the world got a peek at how far the research has come, when Elon Musk took to X to show off what his other company, Neuralink, had achieved. Noland Arbaugh, who was paralyzed from the neck down in a diving accident, was seen playing online chess, using his brain to control the pieces.

Neuralink is part of a wave of brain-computer interface startups like Synchron, Precision Neuroscience, and Blackrock Neurotech, which are achieving milestones quicker than many scientists anticipated. Thats spurring faster development but also intensifying competition.

New AI methods, such as large language models, can help predict what patients were trying to do or say, which could help the functionality of these devices advance even faster.

Arbaugh said that when he had the chip implanted, he stayed up all night playing his favorite video game, Then on Monday, Arbaugh posted a video of himself playing the driving game Mario Kart, using his brain to navigate.

The video showed a level of control that has not been seen in a permanent brain implant being considered by the FDA.

Neuralinks successful implant, part of the very early stages of the FDA approval process, marks a big step in the burgeoning field of brain-computer interfaces, or BCIs. It makes Neuralink the most advanced version of the most ambitious type of implant in which sensors actually contact the brain.

Know More

Each company in the BCI field has slightly different ideas and methods for reading and processing human brain signals.

Synchron, which is just finishing a followup of its 10th patient, who has been living with its device for 12 months, and preparing for a larger clinical trial, reads brain signals by inserting a stent into the jugular vein that can read brain signals.

The benefit of the stent is that it can be inserted with a minimally invasive procedure. The downside is that, because the stent is not inserted directly into the brain, it doesnt receive as many brain signals, giving patients less control over computers.

Precision Neuroscience, which is just beginning the FDA process, has a different method. It plans to make a tiny slit in the skull and slide an extremely thin set of electrodes in. It has also been testing its device in a novel way, recruiting brain surgery patients to temporarily test the products during their procedures. Precision then runs a series of tests on the patients, gathering invaluable data that can also help doctors performing the surgery.

Blackrock Neurotech, founded in 2008, has been testing implants for longer than any of its competitors and may be the first to achieve an FDA-approved device. The companys devices are placed directly on the brain, giving patients high fidelity control. However, the devices have often lasted only a few years, in part due to scar tissue building up around the sensor, which degrades signals.

Neuralinks device works differently. The sensors that collect brain data are fibers thinner than a human hair. The company developed a surgical robot to insert the sensors into the motor cortex. The device can then wirelessly beam the signal to a computer, whereas devices like Blackrocks use a cable.

There are other startups, some toiling away in stealth mode. Neuralinks co-founder and first president, Max Hodak, left in 2021 to launch his own computer-brain interface company called Science.

Reeds view

In my end-of-the-year tech predictions, I highlighted computer-brain interfaces, projecting they would make new strides in 2024. It has happened faster than I thought.

In November, 2022, I exchanged iMessages with an ALS patient named Rodney Gorham, who had been implanted with Synchrons Stentrode and was using his brain to send the texts. It was an almost emotional experience. But it was also very much a beta product. It took Gorham several minutes to send a one-word message.

Synchrons product roadmap includes potentially adding more veins to capture more parts of the brain, which would improve functionality.

Neuralinks strategy is more of an all-or-nothing approach. Rather than create a minimally viable product and then improve it over time, its first version could be a game changer  if it keeps working and passes the FDA approval process.

We dont know yet how the brain will respond to the device a year or two from now, and whether scar tissue that may develop will interfere with the signal.

If Neuralink and other BCI companies are successful, we will see these sensors expand to capture more of the brains neurons. Some people think or even hope that advancements will allow a melding of humans with machines.

For now, it will have the most impact on patients with debilitating conditions that prevent them from moving or speaking. Last year, we saw a proof of concept for what restored speech might look like in a pair of studies at Stanford and the University of California, San Francisco. Using artificial intelligence and BCIs, researchers enabled ALS patients to talk in a way that sounded natural. Those implants, connected to massive computers, were only temporarily implanted, but it may not be long before something like that is possible in a small, wireless device.

Another near term possibility is that patients will be able to control prosthetic limbs with their brains. This is also something thats been demonstrated as a proof of concept. With devices like Neuralinks BCI, we may soon see people walking around on artificial limbs as if they were real.

Room for Disagreement

Elon Musk caused the price of sending a rocket into low earth orbit to drop 100-fold. It wasnt because of a big scientific breakthrough. It came after blowing up a lot of rockets in a trial-and-error approach to innovation that resembled software development cycles. The move-fast-and-break-things method ended up working well with rockets, but it rubs scientists the wrong way when applied to experiments conducted on animals and humans.

Arthur Caplan and Jonathan D. Moreno argue in the Hastings Bioethics Forum that Musks decision to simply tweet about Neuralinks human trials is an example of a lack of transparency: Opening up the brain of a living human being to insert a device, particularly someone with serious medical problems, deserves more than a two-sentence report on what is, in effect, a proprietary social media platform not distinguished for its reliability where facts are concerned. This human research subject, their family, all potential future research subjects and patients, the medical community, and all of us deserve more.

Notable

Elon Musk biographer Ashlee Vance got an exclusive, inside look at Neuralink and how it operates. Neuralink and Musk rarely open up to journalists at mainstream media outlets like Bloomberg.
HOLLAND, Mich. (WOOD)  For five days to kick off the month of April, Downtown Holland is offering residents and visitors plenty of shopping deals, giveaways and more.

From April 1 to 5, more than 50 businesses will be participating in the first-ever Downtown Holland Spring Fling. Each day of the week will offer shoppers new ways to save and get extra items at participating shops and restaurants.

Were so excited to host our first ever Spring Break event in Downtown Holland and to offer

families that are staying here in West Michigan for Spring Break something fun to look forward to, Downtown Holland Marketing Coordinator Kara de Alvare said in a statement. We have a little something for everyone to enjoy, including an incredible gift card giveaway valued at over $1,000!

Each days specials can be found below. Shoppers can pick up shopping passports and if they visit at least 10 businesses and get their passports stamped, they will be entered into a gift card bundle giveaway thats worth $1,000. Completed passports can be dropped off at the Holland Civic Center.

Monday, April 1 : Shoppers will receive a free Spring Fling tote bag while supplies last

Tuesday, April 2 : Enjoy a 20% discount on items at participating businesses

Wednesday, April 3 : Family-friendly games will be located all along 8th Street while you shop

Thursday, April 4 : Enjoy a 20% discount on items at participating businesses

Friday, April 5: Participating restaurants will be offering a variety of flights of drinks, food or ice cream

You can find more information on Downtown Hollands Spring Fling by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
The much-anticipated full autopsy report for Nex Benedict, a 16-year-old transgender and Indigenous student from Owasso High School in Oklahoma who died in February, was released Wednesday, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the events leading to his tragic death.

Benedict used he, him, they, and them pronouns. Benedicts death had previously been classified as a suicide by the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, citing combined toxicity from fluoxetine and diphenhydramine as the cause.

Benedict had endured bullying and an assault at school, which had raised significant questions about the environment in which he lived and the protection offered to LGBTQ+ youth.

The full autopsy report delves into greater detail than the initial one-page summary previously released, providing insight into the physical injuries Benedict sustained and the levels of medication present in their system at the time of death.

Despite the traumatic experiences Benedict faced, including the physical assault the day before his death, the report highlighted that there were no lethal injuries, including an absence of injuries to the brain. This detail is significant, revealing the fact that the physical trauma observed on Benedicts body, which included nonlethal injuries like bruises, cuts, and scrapes, did not extend to brain damage. These findings shift the focus towards a combination of medications found in Benedicts system at the time of death. Specifically, toxicology results pinpointed the cause of death to the combined effects of fluoxetine, an antidepressant, and diphenhydramine, an antihistamine that is also commonly used as a sleep aid. According to the report, the levels of these drugs were significantly higher than therapeutic ranges.

The Advocate consulted Dr. Joshua King, the medical director of the Maryland Poison Center, to better understand the toxicology results. King said that while the fluoxetine values werent necessarily alarming, the diphenhydramine amount was.

The fluoxetine levels arent dramatically elevated, but the diphenhydramine ones are, King said. That would be in a range compatible with other reports of patients dying from diphenhydramine overdose. He noted that a person suffering from a fatal overdose would usually suffer seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, or both. According to the report, first responders reported finding written communication attributed to Benedict that contributed to the medical examiners impression of self-harm.

Bruises, scratches, and cuts to Benedicts face, while not contributing directly to his death, according to the report, paint a vivid picture of the struggles he endured. The documentation of medical interventions attempted before Benedicts death, including resuscitation efforts evident from the injuries related to CPR, highlights the efforts made to save his life.

Benedicts death has led to a series of advocacy efforts, including calls for a federal investigation into the Owasso Public Schools handling of bullying and harassment. The U.S. Department of Education launched a civil rights investigation into the school district. Benedicts family, community members, and advocates, including the president and CEO of GLAAD, Sarah Kate Ellis, and Kelley Robinson, the president of the Human Rights Campaign, criticized the initial response from local and state authorities, demanding accountability and a more thorough investigation. The controversy also highlighted the broader issue of systemic failures to safeguard vulnerable students and the importance of addressing mental health and bullying in educational settings. Ryan Walters, the states superintendent of public instruction, has been criticized for contributing to a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ people in Oklahoma schools. Walters appointed Chaya Raichik, the right-wing extremist who runs the Libs of TikTok anti-LGBTQ+ hate account, to a media and library oversight board in January, sparking widespread outrage.



In response to the autopsy's release, Robinson said in a statement, The full report does little to fill in the gaps in information about that day or the more than a year of bullying and harassment that led up to it. It does not answer the questions of so many in Oklahoma and across the country. We continue to support the calls from Nexs family for an independent investigation."

She added, The release of todays report does not change the fact that LGTBQ+ students in Oklahoma are not safe at school . And it does not change our continued calls for justice and accountability. We reiterate our call for a full and complete investigation into the district, state superintendent Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma State Department of Education, and into their response after Nex was attacked.

Ellis also responded to the full reports release. This report cannot be seen as a conclusion of the investigation into the death of a teenager who should still be here today, she said. Oklahomas supposed leaders must still provide answers to the public about the state-sponsored bullying by legislation, the inadequate response to violence in a school bathroom, and all the failures to keep Nex safe that continue to endanger LGBTQ and 2STGNC+ people in Oklahoma.

Nicole McAfee of Freedom Oklahoma remarked on the collective failures at various levels, emphasizing, As our community continues to grieve and remember Nex, its clearer than ever that everyone from Oklahomas State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters to Owasso High School staff members to the Owasso Police Department, Tulsa District Attorney, and unaccredited-since-2009 state medical examiners office failed to deliver justice for Nex Benedict and Nexs loved ones. The Trans Advocacy Coalition of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Pride Alliance called for urgent reform and protection for LGBTQ+ and Indigenous youth, while Christopher Sederburg from the Rainbow Youth Project USA highlighted the impact of Nexs death on young people seeking help, urging, Its incumbent upon all of us to secure safety and well-being for young people, especially those who are most at risk of being bullied and singled out.

In addition to the legal and social implications, Benedicts case has prompted discussions on the medical aspects of their death, particularly the use of common medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Toxicology experts noted when talking to The Advocate that these medications are commonly prescribed and generally safe when used as directed, and it's exceedingly rare for them to be implicated in deaths.

On February 7, three girls attacked Benedict in a bathroom after he splashed water on them for making fun of him and another transgender friend. The girls beat Benedict, causing the teen to suffer a blackout, according to Benedicts report to a school resource officer. Benedict was taken to the hospital by his grandmother and sent home. The following day, Benedict was found in distress and rushed back to the hospital, where the teenager was pronounced dead.

A local prosecutor has declined to pursue criminal charges in the case.

If you or someone you know needs mental health resources and support, please call, text, or chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 access to free and confidential services. Trans Lifeline, designed for transgender or gender-nonconforming people, can be reached at (877) 565-8860. The lifeline also provides resources to help with other crises, such as domestic violence situations. The Trevor Project Lifeline, for LGBTQ+ youth (ages 24 and younger), can be reached at (866) 488-7386. Users can also access chat services at TheTrevorProject.org/Help or text START to 678678.

Editors note: This story was updated to include reactions from advocacy groups to the release of the full autopsy report.


Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and Vice Admiral Peter Gautier, deputy commandant for operations for the U.S. Coast Guard, brief reporters about the Baltimore bridge collapse at the White House in Washington, March 27, 2024. (Doug Mills/The New York Times)

BALTIMORE  A construction company employee who said he labored alongside the six men missing after a Baltimore bridge collapse Tuesday said many of his co-workers were migrants working to support their relatives.

Were low-income families, said Jesus Campos, who has worked at the construction company, Brawner Builders, for about eight months. Our relatives are waiting for our help back in our home countries.

The men worked for Brawner, a contractor based in Baltimore County, a senior executive at the company said Tuesday. The executive, Jeffrey Pritzker, and the Coast Guard said that all of the missing workers were presumed dead, given how long it had been since the collapse.

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They were wonderful family people, Pritzker said, before describing the victims survivors. Spouses, children. He added, Its just a very, very bad day.

The company routinely does maintenance on bridges operated by the state. Its workers were repairing the bridges roadway when it was struck by the ship. Pritzker said that Brawners owner was distressed and spent the early hours of Tuesday near the bridge hoping for a rescue, and has also since met with families of all of the missing workers.

Campos spent much of Tuesday afternoon at a gas station near where police had blocked off the road to the Francis Scott Key Bridge. He wore a black sweatshirt bearing the construction companys name and milled about, waiting for news and speaking on the phone.

Its tough, he said. This situation is very difficult.

He told The Baltimore Banner that the employees who remained missing were from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico.

A nonprofit that provides services to immigrants in Baltimore confirmed that at least one of the missing men, Miguel Luna, was from El Salvador. Luna, 40, is married and has three children, said Gustavo Torres, the executive director of the nonprofit, We Are Casa. He said Luna had been living in Maryland for at least 19 years.

Guatemalas Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed that two of the workers were Guatemalan nationals, from the regions of Peten and Chiquimula. The ministry, which did not release the names of its citizens, said that the countrys consul general in Maryland has spoken with the siblings of the two workers and is hoping to meet with their families.

The Mexican Consulate in Washington said in a statement that the nationalities of the missing people were still being determined. Embassies for the other two countries mentioned by Campos did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Officials said that in addition to the six missing workers, two people had been rescued from the water. One did not need medical treatment, and another was taken to a hospital and released later in the day.

State officials said the construction crew had been fixing potholes when the ship crashed into the bridge.

Brawner was founded in 1980, according to its website, and its employees work on schools, historic properties, bridges and other infrastructure.

c.2024 The New York Times Company
Bernard Schwartz was the last person in my life to regularly refer to me as kid. When in the course of our many collaborations over the past two decades, he would approve of a job I had done on something, he would say, Nice work, kid. It was, when you are, as I am, well into your sixties, a title that was as appreciated as it was misplaced.

Bernard, a philanthropist, political activist, business leader, father, grandfather, husband, and mensch to the very marrow of his bones was born the same year as my own father, 1925. He was of the greatest generation. He remembered the Depression and served during World War II. Those experiences, as much as the great business success he worked for throughout his adult life, shaped who he was and the kind of America he so strongly believed in.

He died earlier this month at the age of 98 after a long and extraordinary life. If, based on that life and the spirit of the man, I were able to bestow a title on him, it would be the most optimistic man in America.

Joe Biden Is the Master Deal Maker America Needs Right Now

To be optimistic in todays America may seem detached from reality. It may smack of the triumph of hope over experience. But for Bernard, much like it is for President Joe Bidenfor whom Bernard was tirelessly working until his very last days on this Earthoptimism was not a viewpoint as much as it was the foundational reason for his belief in America. To him, this was a country founded on promise and built by those who believed in that promise in order to provide each succeeding generation with new hope and opportunity.

As it was for Biden and generations of Americans who lifted themselves up from humble beginningsor came to this country in order to do soBernards optimism was not just some ephemeral dream that we carry in our hearts. It was both a motivation and a reward for hard work.

The American dream is not a gift to which we are all entitled, it is something we had to work for every day of our livesif it were to be kept alive.

In recent years, with the rise of Donald Trump, the necessity of such work became clearer still. The America in which Bernard and Biden believed was at risk. But even in the darkest days of the recent pasteven as I spoke with Bernard as he watched the MAGA mob attack the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and I could hear in his voice despair, anger and disbeliefhe retained his optimism.

He knew that the rise of Trumpand the damage he was doing to our countrymeant we would have to work harder. But drawing on his own life experience and his knowledge of the history of the nation, he had every confidence that we would once again ultimately preserve what we have so valued for the past nearly 250 years.

A LIFE-CHANGING MOMENT

I first met Bernard thirty years ago when I was a senior official in the Clinton administration. He was the CEO of Loral Corporation, one of several dozen who accompanied us on a trade mission to Asia. We were all exhausted from a brutal schedule and not thrilled to be jammed together into a bus for a drive to another long and very likely boring official meal. I had no idea that happening to sit next to this guy, 30 years my senior, would change my life.

But as soon as we began to talk, it was clear that he was an extraordinary guy and not one who would let a dreary bus ride go to waste. Why, he wanted to know, wasnt there anyone in the Clinton administration who realized how important it was to invest in U.S. infrastructure? In that 30-minute ride, he provided me with a graduate course in the merits of investing in the United States that was compelling and that U.S. government policy would not catch up to for nearly three decades.

After I left the government, he and I continued the conversation. We later began to write together on the subject, and to convene meetings of senior officials to advance the idea that whether the market was up or the market was down, the economy was booming or in a trough, that the answer was investing in America and Americans. (It ultimately took a fellow optimist, Biden, to turn the plan into action.)

Trump Embraced an Authoritarian the Day After Biden Fiercely Defended Democracy

When Trump loomed as a threat on the horizon, Bernard focused heavily on supporting the campaign of Hillary Clinton, a leader in whom he deeply believed (and who along with her husband, the former president, spoke at his funeral). He, like many of us, was devastated by her defeatespecially because he knew Trump from New York business circles and understood what his election could mean. So he immediately went to work on figuring out where the Hillary Clinton campaign had gone wrong and how to restore the party to leadership.

Bernard Schwartz and Hillary Clinton on June 13, 2005 in New York City. Jimi Celeste/Patrick McMullan/Getty

I do not recall him once during our work together at that time suggesting we might not succeed.

THE OPTIMISTIC PRESIDENT

Long before I understood the potential of Joe Bidens candidacy, Bernard recognized it. As I have said, they were kindred spirits in important ways. Biden offered the Rooseveltian optimism that was in Bernards DNA.

We worked together to help support his election and then his agenda. We collaborated on more events and columns, and he was supportive as I built a small progressive new media platform into a vehicle that reached hundreds of thousands of people each month.

In his late nineties he became a trusted collaborator of mine on podcasts, virtual events, and web-based media platforms. He supported many other ventures to help get America back on the right track and we, whenever possible, sought to highlight the very real achievements of the Biden administrations optimism-driven agenda. Because he never lost his optimism nor his commitment to doing what was necessary to make a difference.

That commitment was sustained until the very end of his life. The last article we published together, weeks before his death, was a summary of how he and I saw the threat of re-electing Trumpa wake-up call about how grave it was. But in keeping with his core spirit, he pressed that we write a new article and meet with senior campaign officials to underscore what he saw as the positive agenda that would win this year.

Bernard Schwartz and Joe Biden on October 30, 2017 in New York City. Mike Coppola/Getty

Trumps threat was to be emphasized, certainly. But the core message that Bernard believed was in pointing out that where Biden had major accomplishments in his first term, Trump and the GOP had none; that whereas Biden was pushing a positive agenda now, all that the GOP was doing was opposing it; and that while Biden had a sweeping set of goals for the next four years, all the GOP could offer was cynicism, division, and obstruction.

Bernard saw the presidents hugely successful State of the Union as an ideal blend of these messages. And he was, again, optimistic about the outcome of the election this Novemberif we all collectively invested as much work as we could in achieving that outcome. We had a meeting on how we might do that scheduled for March 13 with a top Biden campaign official. We exchanged views on how to approach it in the days before the meeting. But, sadly, Bernard passed away the day before the meetingstill active, still committed, still relentlessly optimistic.

Biden, Democrats, and America All Have Reason to Be Optimistic

For the past couple of decades, I grew very used to calls or meetings with Bernard every few days, often several times a day. Sometimes they would begin with him asking me what I thought of some recent event. Typically, I would offer a view that focused on problems and risks. After all, my father nicknamed me Eeyore as a child. And then, after letting me expound for a minute or two, Bernard would say something to the effect of, OK kid, let me tell you why I think youre wrong.

While his view was always realistic, in the end it was buoyed by the optimism that served as his North Star throughout an extraordinary life. Mine was just one of many lives he changed. I am just one of many people who he left more optimistic than he found us.

That is why I feel that although he will be sorely missed by his family and his countless friends, as much as we are diminished by his absence, we will also be left much more enriched because helike the other optimists who built this countrycame this way and contributed so much.

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Russia was aware of preparations for a terrorist attack on its soil at least since Feb. 15, Ukraine's military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov said on March 27.

Several gunmen opened fire at the Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, Moscow's suburb, on the evening of March 22, killing at least 139 people. A branch of the Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility for the attack shortly thereafter.

Russia's security services detained 11 people in connection with the attack on March 23 and another three people on March 25. Russian top officials sought to connect the attack to Ukraine without providing any evidence. The White House said there was no indication that Ukraine was behind the shooting.

According to Budanov, Russia knew from where the attackers would come and through which two countries they would enter Russian territory.

"Don't let them tell you stories that this (attack) appeared out of nowhere," the intelligence chief commented.

Speaking at the third annual Kyiv Stratcom Forum 2024 in Kyiv, Budanov said that one possible explanation for why Russian authorities allowed the attack to happen was an internal power struggle aimed at removing some high-ranking officials from their posts.

"Another option is that they actually underestimated the scale of what would happen. They thought that it would be more local, and they wanted to blame Ukraine for everything," Budanov said.

The intelligence chief denounced the Kremlin's attempts at laying the blame for the attack on Kyiv as "nonsense," noting that Russian officials had changed their versions already three times to create some kind of connection to Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelensky called Russia's attempts to lay the blame on Ukraine "utterly predictable," adding that :(Russian President Vladimir) Putin and his thugs are just trying to blame somebody else... It has happened before."

Read also: In Putins Russia, state violence is on full display

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Hungary will maintain its decision not to reintroduce a ban on Ukrainian honey imports, resisting pressure from beekeepers who argue that inexpensive Ukrainian honey is driving down prices and jeopardizing their livelihoods, Reuters reported on March 26.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbans government banned imports of 24 agricultural products from Ukraine last year, including grain, pork and honey. On Feb. 19, it lifted the ban on honey, sparking protests from the countrys beekeepers.

Agriculture Minister Istvan Nagy told Reuters that the unilateral import ban failed to have a positive impact on the local market as wholesale purchase prices have not increased to the extent that local farmers hoped for, while it hurt companies who packaged and exported honey to the EU.

Read also: Poland aims to halt Ukrainian grain transit from April, negotiations with Kyiv underway

Honey exporters need the Ukrainian honey as they will not be able to meet contracted deliveries otherwise.

Asked if the government would consider reintroducing the import ban, he said no, as it has no impact.

Read also: France will limit supply of Ukrainian grain to Europe

Most honey imports into the EU come from China and Ukraine. Ukrainian imports accounted for 25% of the EUs honey imports in January-August 2023, according to European Commission data.

On Nov. 29, the Slovak government decided to extend a ban on imports of grain and other agricultural products, including honey, from Ukraine.

On Sept. 18, farmers across Bulgaria began protesting the countrys parliaments decision to resume agricultural imports from Ukraine. The protesters are demanding that the government extend the ban on imports of Ukrainian sunflower, wheat, corn and rapeseed.

They also want a ban on imports of sunflower oil, fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, milk and dairy products, meat and meat products, honey and beekeeping products from Ukraine.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A private school headmaster has warned that Labours VAT raid will curb plans to give bursaries to one in three pupils.

Bolton School, a 13,600-a-year school in Greater Manchester, where one in five pupils receive financial support, has been planning to expand its bursary scheme to benefit one in three pupils in the next five years.

However, Philip Britton, head of foundation at the school, said under Labours plans to add VAT to fees, the school would have to slow its plans to expand bursary support.

He said: We have, and had, real ambition to arrive at one in three here on bursaries within the next five years or so. That timescale will increase.

He added: Our bursary provision will not be diminished and I think that is also an important message. We want to be an inclusive school and we want to remain as we are, but everything will become just that little bit more difficult.

Most private schools believe they will have to reduce bursaries and scholarships, as well as partnerships with state schools, if Labour wins the next election and follows through with its tax threat, a Censuswide poll for The Telegraph has found.

Philip Britton is also the incoming chairman of The Heads' Conference - Paul Cooper

Last year, 29 per cent of private school pupils received financial support from their school, up from 20 per cent in 2000, according to the Independent Schools Council.

However, schools warn their bursary schemes are under threat as they explore how to cut costs to avoid passing on the full 20 per cent VAT to parents, many of whom would face being priced out.

Mr Britton, the incoming chairman of The Heads Conference (HMC), the group which includes Britains most prestigious private schools, called for an end to the narrative that is state versus independent.

He said: This policy is not about state versus independence. It is about how that plays out for children.

He added: That is where the really important focus should be. We are talking about real people, both in our schools and in all of the other schools The independent sector is focused on all pupils and how we manage to benefit as many as possible.

Labour has claimed that the VAT policy will raise around 1.6 billion a year to fund more mental health staff and expert teachers in state schools.

Mr Britton said the policy will not raise anything like enough for improvement in the state sector.

He is a member of the Bolton Learning Partnership, a group of 28 private and state schools and Bolton council which share resources and expertise with the aim of improving education for all young people in the region.

He said that the state schools he works with should not expect to have the only promise of funding from an uncertain and indirect form of taxation.

The Bolton School foundation, which traces its origins back to 1516, includes a nursery, infant school, and single-sex junior and senior schools on a 32-acre campus.

Pupils have to take an entrance exam, and are then assessed on their eligibility for financial support. One in 11 pupils are on full scholarships.

Mr Britton, who attended a state school in Gateshead before studying physics at Oxford, said the narrative around private schools needs to take place outside the South East bubble.

He said: I think the narrative that since fees have gone up a lot over the last 20 years, its obvious that parents will be able to afford an enormous fee increase, is not true. It obviously isnt true. Some parents will be able to. Most parents will not. Some schools will be able to. Most schools will not. And its a narrative that absolutely needs to take place outside the South East bubble.

He said there are hardly any families who are rich at Bolton School. The average parent at Bolton School is someone who has made a choice to prioritise their finances to afford an independent education for a whole variety of reasons, he said.

Bridget Phillipson, shadow education secretary, speaking to the media at College Green, Westminster, on March 6 - Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire

Labour has defended criticism of its VAT plans, saying it will invest in a brilliant state education for every child paid for by ending private schools tax breaks.

Asked by The Telegraph earlier this month about private schools scaling back bursaries because of the policy, Bridget Phillipson, shadow education secretary, said: Private schools have responsibilities when it comes to demonstrating wider benefit to society, and that extends to their wider work such as scholarships and community engagement.

She added: I think private schools do have choices that they can make about how they spend their money.

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When a train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, last year, Pete Buttigieg drew criticism for not showing up right away.

In responding to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge  a far different crisis, this time at the center of his portfolio  hes not making that mistake again.

On the day the bridge collapsed, Buttigieg had planned a trip to Wyoming and Montana  what would have amounted to his 47th and 48th states visited as Transportation secretary  to tour infrastructure projects. But before leaving from Dulles International Airport on Tuesday, his work cell phone buzzed not long after the bridge collapsed at 1:30 a.m. He spent time on the phone with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and White House chief of staff Jeff Zients, and the states congressional delegation.

By 5 a.m., it was clear his trip out west would be off. He briefed President Joe Biden by phone, and was on the ground meeting with first responders later that day.

It's definitely one of the most striking and extreme emergency situations that we've faced, Buttigieg told POLITICO in an interview on Wednesday, not long after briefing Biden in the Oval Office, and then later, the press. We've obviously encountered issues with aviation safety, with rail safety. But to have a major maritime incident, and a major bridge incident, all wrapped up into one is definitely calling on all of the resources that we have at the department. And Im giving it everything I've got.

The Biden administration and its partners face a three-fold challenge: reopen the port, which falls to the U.S. Coast Guard, deal with the supply chain challenge, and rebuild the bridge, Buttigieg said from the podium at the White House press briefing. In part, his response builds on the work his office has already done to alleviate supply chain issues that once threatened to delay the arrival of Christmas presents.

And for Buttigieg, it is a political challenge as well. Though he has said his only current ambition is to be the best secretary of Transportation that I can, the failed 2020 presidential candidate may run for political office again. And as with his every move, his management of the crisis will be a closely scrutinized part of his resume.

No question about it: his biggest test yet, and hes handled it with flying colors, said former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, the former Republican congress member from Illinois who keeps in regular touch with Buttigieg.



Buttigieg is not untested. Before the bridge collapse, he had to contend with Covid-induced supply chain snarls, air travel meltdowns and a train derailment in the heart of his native Midwest. At almost every turn, the role has delivered its share of unprecedented opportunities and pitfalls. On the positive side, he helped sell Bidens signature legislative accomplishment in the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law, then hopscotched ribbon cuttings in battleground states over the last year. The onetime aspirant for the U.N. ambassadorship has even racked up some foreign policy experience, pitching a new Marshall Plan to rebuild Ukrainian infrastructure, traveling to Kyiv and meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

There are signs he learned lessons from the criticism that he wasnt immediately on site in the aftermath of East Palestine, even if that expectation didnt exist for previous transportation secretaries responding to similar derailments.

Every disaster, emergency or crisis that you face informs how you deal with the next one, Buttigieg said.

One former Buttigieg aide granted anonymity to speak freely said Buttigiegs arrival on the scene in Baltimore to meet with first responders demonstrates his understanding, especially as a former mayor, of the importance of showing up and being there on the ground, and coordinating directly with state, local and port officials.

In Washington, Buttigiegs challenge will include outreach to the Hill to cover emergency funding, after Biden said the federal government will pay the costs of rebuilding the bridge. Buttigieg built legislative relationships while pushing the bipartisan infrastructure law to members of Congress in 2021, though the funding path for the bridge reconstruction is unlikely to be as complicated as that was.

The relationships that we've built, advocating for the bill, passing it and then implementing it are definitely serving us well in this crisis situation, Buttigieg said.

Hell have to marshal resources within his department as well. He's going to have to pull his whole team together, and all hands on deck, to make this work, LaHood said.

Buttigieg is now working on a response to the state emergency relief request from the Maryland Department of Transportation, and then meeting with shippers and supply chain players.

"Now it's time to really have a more direct conversation about what they think the implications will be, he said.

It is likely they will still be ongoing after Buttigieg leaves the administration. Buttigieg told POLITICO earlier this month he does not plan to stay in the role longer than five years, and LaHood said efforts to rebuild the bridge will likely outlast Buttigiegs DOT tenure.

The rebuilding of this bridge is going to take several years, LaHood said. Planning is going to take a couple of years, and the rebuild is going to take several years. But he can lay the groundwork and the blueprint. And if he does that, whoever succeeds him will have a good game plan.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 27. Minister of Transport of Kazakhstan Marat Karabayev has met with his Chinese counterpart Li Xiaopeng as part of his visit to Beijing, Trend reports.

According to the Kazakh ministry, during the meeting, the parties discussed aspects of transport cooperation, such as increasing trade turnover by expanding transportation infrastructure, implementing joint projects, and increasing the frequency and geography of flights between Kazakhstan and China.



The parties also indicated their willingness to carry out the agreements reached to ensure more efficient and dependable transport connections between the two countries.



Notably, China became Kazakhstan's major commercial partner in 2023. In 2023, Kazakhstan's trade turnover with China was $31.4 billion. The volume of trade turnover increased by 30 percent from the same period in 2022 ($24.2 billion).

At the same time, in terms of trade turnover, exports to China during the aforementioned period totaled $14.7 billion, 14.7 percent greater than from January to December 2022 ($13 billion).

In addition, imports from China surged by 50.5 percent from January to December 2023, totaling $16.7 billion. In 2022, imports totaled $11.1 billion.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Wednesday that theres currently no timeline for when the Port of Baltimore can reopen following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge a day prior.

Too soon to venture an estimate, he told reporters during the White House daily press briefing. The vast majority of the port is inside of that bridge, which means most of it cannot operate.

Buttigieg, who traveled to Baltimore on Tuesday hours after the collapse, said he is concerned about the local economic impact of the port closure and noted that 8,000 jobs are directly associated with port activities. And, he added, more than $100 million in cargo moves in and out of the port in a day.

Reopening the port is a different matter from rebuilding the bridge. The port, thats just a matter of clearing the channel, he said. Still no simple thing, but I would expect that can happen on a much quicker timeline than the full reconstruction of the bridge.

When asked whether it will be a matter of days, weeks, or months, Buttigieg said, As you can imagine, Im asking our teams the same question.

The secretary noted that a nearby facility, Sparrows Point, can handle some amount of cargo and that other ports along the east coast, including in New York, New Jersey and Virginia, are absorbing some of the need.

President Biden vowed to rebuild the bridge after a cargo ship, named Dali, crashed into the structure around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, causing the collapse. The ship was en route to Sri Lanka.

The president said he expects the federal government to foot the bill and that Congress will support the effort.

When asked about a timeline for the bridge reopening, Buttigieg said the administration needs to get a sense of the condition of its infrastructure, but it will be some time.

He noted that it took five years to build the original bridge but added that it doesnt necessarily mean five years to replace.

Additionally, for the workers at the port, Buttigieg said its a major concern of the administration that they will be without work during the reconstruction. He added that they will turn over every stone to find resources to help.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
WASHINGTON  Transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg on Wednesday said it was unclear that any bridge in existence could have withstood the impact of a modern freighter that the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore suffered earlier this week, which demolished the structure and shuttered the citys port.

Its not just big as a building, its really as big as a block, said Buttigieg, appearing on the podium with Coast Guard Vice Admiral Peter Gautier for the White Houses daily press briefing. A bridge like this one, completed in the 1970s, was simply not made to withstand a direct impact on a critical support pier from a vessel that weighs about 200 million pounds, orders of magnitude bigger than cargo ships that were in service in that region at the time that bridge was first built.

A Singapore-flagged container ship lost power Tuesday and struck a key structural component of the bridge, sending it tumbling into the Patapsco River where it enters Chesapeake Bay. Six highway maintenance workers on the bridge at the time are believed to have died in the accident.

Buttigieg said state and federal authorities are currently working to clear the debris, move the 984-foot Dali  out of the way and reopen the channel so ships can resume traveling in and out of Baltimore, the fifth busiest port on the East Coast. Neither he nor Gautier would provide a ballpark estimate of when that could be.

Officials are also investigating the bridgescollapse, both to understand why the portions that came down failed and assess the condition of the sections that remain standing, so that plans can be drawn up to replace it.

Buttigieg said rebuilding the bridge would obviously take much longer than reopening the port, and that he expected President Joe Biden would soon ask for money from Congress to start the project.

Rebuilding will not be quick or easy or cheap, he said.

In a similar incident, a bridge across the entrance to Tampa Bay was struck by a freighter in 1980, causing it to collapse. Its replacement, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, has large concrete pilings in the water surrounding the suspension bridges structural pylons, which are constructed on manmade islands.

Buttigieg, though, said its unclear whether even those features would protect a bridge from the largest, heaviest ships in use today, the NeoPanamax freighters constructed to take advantage of the new, wider set of locks on the Panama Canal.

Part of whats being debated is whether any design feature now known would have made a difference in this case, he said. I dont know how a bridge possibly could withstand the forces that were at play when this vessel, about the same size as a Nimitz class U.S. aircraft carrier, struck the key support beam for that bridge. But we will, as always, learn from the [National Transportation Safety Board] investigation.

Buttigieg said it was important to get the port open quickly, as it normally handles between $100 million and $200 million of cargo and generates $2 million in wages each day. These longshore workers, if goods arent moving, theyre not working, he said.

Related...
Sacramento City Council members are poised to vote on a resolution Tuesday evening that would declare it a sanctuary city for transgender people  including minors. The legislation has received the stamp of approval from a major Democrat-Socialist organization.

Sacramento City Councilmember Katie Valenzuela, a Democrat, spearheaded the resolution, which would protect medical professionals who perform gender transition surgeries on children from any "attempts to impose criminal punishment," including civil liabilities or subjugation to out-of-state laws that restrict such procedures.

"California has been a leader in protecting the rights of transgender individuals to access care, but many states across the nation are moving in the opposite direction," the resolution states. "In preparation of future legislation that may criminalize those providing or seeking gender-affirming care and given the Councils stated values of equity and inclusion, it is important for the City of Sacramento to be proactive in reiterating our commitment to transgender rights and equal protections for transgender people by declaring ourselves a sanctuary city and a place of safety for transgender people."

VIRGINIA COUNTY DECLARES TRANSGENDER DAY OF VISIBILITY ON EASTER THIS YEAR

Demonstrators gather on the steps of the Montana State Capitol protesting anti-LGBTQ+ legislation on March 15, 2021, in Helena, Mont.

The council will vote on the resolution Tuesday at 5 p.m. PST after a special presentation declaring this week "transgender week of visibility."

The Democratic Socialists of America  Sacramento chapter endorsed the resolution last week in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The council's resolution comes two years after Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom passed a law declaring the Golden State a sanctuary state for transgender children, also preventing criminalization of medical professionals who carry out gender transition surgeries or providing hormone treatments to minors.

Maine's legislature is currently considering a bill that would declare it a sanctuary state for transgender surgical procedures and abortions.

MAINE CONSIDERS BILL THAT WOULD ESTABLISH LEGAL RIGHT TO ABORTION, TRANSGENDER SURGICAL PROCEDURES

Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom

NEBRASKA GOVERNOR TIGHTENS RESTRICTIONS ON GENDER TRANSITION TREATMENTS FOR MINORS

Conservative states have begun ramping up laws restricting both surgical and nonsurgical transgender procedures for minors. States such as Idaho, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Alabama and Florida have made it a felony to perform surgical procedures, such as sex changes, on minors or provide them with any gender-transition drugs.

Several more liberal states have created "shield laws" that protect these procedures and gender-transition drugs for transgender people and children. Those states include California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, New York, Vermont, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Maryland, Illinois and Massachusetts.

And medical associations are supportive of wider access to gender-transition surgical procedures for transgender children. Earlier this month, the American Psychological Association (APA) announced a new policy urging clinics to provide "unobstructed access" to gender-transitioning treatments for children.

The American Medical Association (AMA) also states on its website that "improving access to gender-affirming care is an important means of improving health outcomes for the transgender population."





Original article source: California capital to vote on 'sanctuary city' status for transgender people
A man who made threatening phone calls to Nancy Pelosi and United States Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas was sentenced to 11 months in prison on Wednesday.

David Allen Carrier, 44, pleaded guilty to two counts of making threats against a federal official, according to a press release from the United States District Attorneys Office in the Northern District of California.

In Jan. 2021, when Pelosi was still the House Majority Speaker, Carrier left a voicemail on her office line in which he threatened to assault her. The call came within a month of the Capitol riots, at which point Pelosi was directing criticism toward Donald Trump for being an accessory to the incident which left five people dead. At the time, Pelosi had been inexplicably identified by the far-right as the villain of the riot.

Then, on June 30, 2022, Carrier called the hotline for Mayorkas office and left another threatening voice memo. Carriers call came just days after Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) wrote a letter to Mayorkas, asking him to not use taxpayer dollars to exacerbate what he called a crisis at the border.

Carrier acknowledged he left the menacing messages with the intent to interfere with Pelosis work in Congress and Mayorkass duties as the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

Participating in the public political conversation is an important right for all citizens, said U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey. Nevertheless, threatening our public servants is not protected by the First Amendment and corrodes our ability to engage in peaceful and important public discourse. This Office will not tolerate behavior that crosses the line to criminal threats.

The ruling was handed down by Judge William Alsup, who added three years of supervised release to the sentence, to begin after Carrier is released.

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Workers with poor mental health cost the UK economy 110 billion a year, a report backed by NHS chiefs has found.

The Centre for Mental Health, a charity which aims to advocate for fairer mental health policies, commissioned the NHS Confederations mental health network to carry out research for 2022.

It found that the total economic and social costs of mental ill health in England was 300 billion.

This is divided between a 110 billlion loss to the economy, a 130 billion loss in human costs  referred to as the value, expressed in monetary terms, of reduced quality of life among people living with mental health difficulties  and a loss of 60 billion in terms of health and care costs.

Losses to the economy because of mental ill health were calculated to include the business costs of sickness absence and presenteeism at work, as well as staff turnover and worklessness among people with mental ill health.

Unspoken anguish

The report concluded that a failure to invest in early mental health help is a false economy which is making the country poorer and causing unspoken anguish to those affected.

Andy Bell, the centres chief executive, said: A pound sign can never fully reflect the suffering caused by mental ill health.

But these figures signal an urgent need for the Government, and all political parties at the next election, to prioritise the publics mental health.

This is like a pandemic happening every year. Inaction is not an option.

A comprehensive, long-term cross-government plan is needed to reduce these costs and build a mentally healthier nation.

The researchers said their study for the first time incorporates some of the wider costs, including the impact of presenteeism - whereby someone experiencing mental health difficulties attends work but is less productive due to impaired cognitive function and emotional distress.

Deserving of policy attention

The report stated: While it is impossible to fully assess the extent of the problem, and a pound sign is admittedly an imperfect proxy for some of the impacts, there is nevertheless value in estimating the economic cost of mental ill health.

It helps us to appreciate the significance of mental ill health as an issue deserving of policy attention, investment and reform.

The authors said higher investment in cost-effective health and care interventions - such as community services, early intervention and prevention - may reduce economic and human costs.

In February, a report by the Resolution Foundation suggested people in their early 20s are more likely to be out of work due to ill health than those in their early 40s, and called for action on Britains mental health crisis.

That study found that the number of young people with poor mental health is rising, with 34pc of those aged 18 to 24 reporting symptoms of mental disorder, such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder in 2021-22.

It also found that younger people with mental health problems can have their chances at a good education blighted and can end up out of work or going into low-paid jobs.

Sean Duggan, the NHS Confederations mental health network chief executive, said: This detailed financial analysis lays bare the cost of mental ill health to the nation.

With the overall cost double the cost of the NHSs entire annual budget, this simply cannot be ignored by policy makers.

The false economy of failing to invest in mental health is making the country poorer and causing unspoken anguish to so many people and their loved ones.

It is vital that we now invest in effective interventions that bring us closer to a mentally healthier nation for all.

It has a lasting impact

Marsha McAdam, the centres ambassador and vice-chairman of the mental health network, said: Mental ill health has had a lasting impact on my finances, my use of social care and my quality of life.

Had I been able to access meaningful early intervention years ago, my life trajectory could have been so different.

The Government has the power to reduce the impacts of mental ill health on people like me.

By properly investing in mental health support, they can ensure that everyone has the best chance of a mentally healthy life.

Last week, Mel Stride, the Work and Pensions Secretary, faced criticism over his remarks that there was a real risk that the normal ups and downs of human life were being labelled as medical conditions that then held people back from working.

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Under proposals, visitors to hotels with 10 or more rooms in Cambridge could be charged 2 per room per night - ChrisHepburn/E+

Cambridge is considering a 2-a-night tourist tax to help boost its local economy.

Guests visiting the university city could face the charge as early as next year under proposals being considered by councillors.

The move follows similar tourist taxes in Spain and Germany as well Manchester, which currently charges visitors 1-a-night plus VAT in city centre hotels.

A report by Cambridge City Council said the launch of a similar scheme in Manchester last April was successful.

It suggested Cambridge could achieve significant investment at a level previously unseen through the levy.

Under proposals, visitors to hotels in Cambridge that have 10 or more rooms could be charged 2 per room per night, rising to 3 from the third year of the scheme.

This could raise between 1.5m and 2.6m per year over a five-year business plan, according to the report, based on an average occupancy rate of between 66pc and 76pc.

Manchester introduced a charge on tourists last April - Mark Waugh

It said that an Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID) would be created as the vehicle to levy the charge for overnight hotel stays, and that this would be collected by hotels.

Hotels would pass this on to the ABID quarterly in arrears based on an average occupancy rate set by the business plan.

It said that a rateable value threshold would decide which businesses charge the levy  with around 35 hotels and properties identified so far.

Airbnb and self-catering accommodation, which fall outside of the business rate database used under BID legislation, would not have to collect the levy. Businesses where accommodation is a secondary part of the business, such as pubs with a few rooms, would also be exempt.

Some university colleges operate a commercial bed and breakfast offer at some times of the year but cannot be mandated to charge a visitor levy as they are educational institutions, the report said.

But the document said a voluntary agreement is being explored with the relevant colleges to cover the times of the year when they let rooms on a commercial basis.

Bath also contemplated a tourist tax  but stopped short of introducing one - Matt Cardy/Getty Images Europe

Jemma Little, economic development manager at Cambridge City Council, told a meeting of the authoritys strategy and resources scrutiny committee this week that initial discussions with hoteliers had been positive.

In order for the ABID to be established, there needs to be a ballot of the hotels within that catchment area (of Greater Cambridge), she said. Its not something the council can decide.

Its very much decided by the hotels who would be expected to charge the levy and the BID (business improvement district) has timetabled that ballot to take place in July this year. Theyve written to the Secretary of State to inform him that this will be taking place.

If proposals are approved, the new ABID could start as soon as 2025.

Maria Manion, chief executive of Cambridge BID, said: Were keeping it as simple as possible based on the Manchester model. The smaller businesses wont be involved at this stage.

Its going to be hotels with 10 or more bedrooms where the primary operation is to be a hotel. Things like pubs with rooms will be excluded from that because obviously their primary business may be a pub or a restaurant.

Labour councillor Cameron Holloway said: I think its a great initiative and one that would be really positive for the city.

The committee voted unanimously to continue exploring the proposals, moving towards a ballot of hoteliers.

Oxford, Bath and Hull are other parts of the UK that have contemplated a tourist tax, but all have stopped short of introducing one.

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As the pre-trial proceedings in Donald Trump's Florida criminal case drag on, some legal experts are increasingly skeptical that the case will go to trial this year. Others worry it won't see a trial at all.

U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, the Trump-appointee overseeing the case, in which the former president is accused of willfully retaining national security secrets after leaving office and attempting to thwart government efforts to retrieve them, has yet to confirm a trial date despite holding two separate hourslong hearings expected to address the matter earlier this month.

She also has yet to rule on multiple defense motions to dismiss the case while disputes over classified evidence have stretched across months and a contentious request from Trump's legal team to release the names of the government's witnesses sits unresolved, according to the Associated Press. Legal experts expressed concerns over her recent order requesting end-of-trial jury instructions that suggests Cannon is still considering a Trump claim about his authority to possess the documents that days earlier she had seemed openly skeptical of.

The delays can, in part, be attributed to the presumptive GOP nominee's frequent legal tactic to delay his four criminal cases as he carries out his 2024 presidential campaign. But his Florida case has entered unique territory because of how few substantive decisions the judge has made to progress toward a trial, raising the chance that the case won't go to trial before the November election.

"Judge Cannon is a bad judge and has made bad rulings and has favored Trump at every possible turn, number one," former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani told Salon.

Since her assignment to Trump's case last year, Cannon, a former federal prosecutor who was appointed to the bench in 2020, has faced intense scrutiny for her relative inexperience as a judge.

That factor presents a "bigger problem" than Trump's frequent delay tactics because she appears to have "lost control of the trial," David Schultz, a Hamline University legal studies and political science professor, told Salon.

"The fact that she's [held] a bunch of hearings, she doesn't have clear orders, she's all over the map  I think it's a rookie problem, or relative rookie problem, that she just does not have control over the courtroom, and Trump's taking advantage of it," Schultz said, contrasting Cannon's handling of Trump's lawyers with that of New York Judge Juan Merchan, who sternly set a trial date in the former president's Manhattan criminal case on Monday and scolded Trump's legal team for their latest delay attempt.

"Every frivolous argument that Trump has raised, [Cannon has] entertained, going back to the search warrants that were executed at Mar-a-Lago," Rahmani added, referencing Cannon's appointment of an independent arbiter in response to a Trump lawsuit to parse the records the FBI seized from the property. A federal appeals court panel of judges unanimously reversed that appointment, stating that Cannon overstepped her authority.

But the pre-trial discovery portion of the proceedings revolving around the Classified Information Procedures Act also contribute to the case's lag, Rahmani explained. The CIPA Act sets "specific guidelines" for the disclosure of classified material and their admission into evidence, requiring all parties in a case to have clearance to review the documents and to only access some sensitive materials in a designated, secure facility.

The need to keep the document's intelligence information classified so it's not revealed to the public during trial has also led prosecutors to seek "redacted versions" or summaries of the exhibits for jurors, he added.

"There's this whole procedural back-and-forth in these types of cases that just delays things already," Rahmani said, noting that much of the responsibility in resolving those procedural matters falls on Cannon.

Special counsel Jack Smith and his team have continuously urged the judge to push the case forward, the AP noted. Though they've avoided mentioning the upcoming election, they frequently emphasize the public's interest in a quick resolution to the case and highlighted what they say is overwhelming evidence  from surveillance video and a defense lawyer's notes to close Trump associates' testimony  establishing the former president's guilt.

Trump and co-defendant Walt Nauta were arraigned in Miami last June, both pleading not guilty to all charges. Co-defendant Carlos De Oliveira, who was charged in July's superseding indictment, pleaded not guilty in mid-August following his first court appearance in late July.

For a case like this, the timeline from the defendants' arraignment or initial court appearance to a trial should last no longer than a year, maybe even less, Schultz said, noting a defendant's Constitutional right to a fair and speedy trial.

Even then, Cannon has been moving so slowly in deciding key matters in the case that she's fallen out of step with her proposed timeline and ushered in a level of uncertainty among legal experts about the ultimate fate of the case.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

With Cannon's handling of the case thus far, Rahmani doesn't expect the case to go to trial until 2025 if Trump loses in November. But if Trump wins the former federal prosecutor predicts the case will be dismissed because of the Department of Justice's "long-standing policy" against prosecuting sitting presidents.

Though Schultz thinks the case could go to trial before the end of the year, he also still believes it's possible for Cannon to get it on track for an October trial date, just ahead of the election.

To do so, Cannon would need to "pretty quickly" take "more control" of the case and "do a better job" with scheduling, convening in the next "three to four weeks" with the parties to set a timeline for discovery and affidavits, Schultz explained.

Whether she will do that, however, is a different question.

"I'm a little skeptical of it at this point," Schultz said through a chuckle. "Sounds like what she needs to do is to talk to one of the senior judges to get some advice ... or some mentoring in terms of what to do."
Cardiff Airport has confirmed it will be losing its only direct flight to Paris.

In a statement it said that Eastern Airways was suspending its regular Paris Orly service from the upcoming summer schedule.

The route, launched last April, was Eastern's sole service from the Vale of Glamorgan-based facility.

It will come to an end on Saturday, 30 March.

However, the airline will continue to use the airport and fly regularly from Cardiff for charter flights, "as and when required".

The news also means that passengers wishing to travel to Paris will now have to so do by flying via Amsterdam.

In January 2023 budget airline Wizz Air also revealed it was ending all its flights in and out of Wales, citing the economic climate as the reason for the decision.

The firm had already suspended its winter 2002 flights from Cardiff over running costs.

Last month the Welsh government-owned airport announced it was continuing to make a loss following Covid.

In struggling to attract pre-pandemic levels of business it lost 4.5m in the year leading to March 2023.

Ministers are currently supporting Cardiff Airport through a grant worth 42.6m over four years.

Over time it has received millions in government loans and in 2021 Labour wrote off 42.6m it had given the airport, leaving it to repay 26.3m by 2045.

A Cardiff Airport spokesperson added: "Our team are actively speaking to airlines to provide direct flights between Cardiff and Paris.

"We know our customers living in Wales are keen for more choice and great prices."
On March 26, before the sun rose above the Patapsco River, a container ship named Dali that was en route to Colombo, Sri Lanka, crashed into a support pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. The collision triggered the collapse of the 1.6 mile long structure, sending huge swaths of it into the rivers dark waters. By evening, six construction workers who had been in the middle of the bridges span were presumed dead.

The company that chartered the ship, Maersk Line Limited, has since come under scrutiny following the tragedy. Hours after the news broke, The Lever reported that eight months prior, the Labor Department sanctioned the cargo giant for taking action against a sailor who previously reported unsafe working conditions while aboard a Maersk-operated boat.

The seaman had been a chief mate on the Safmarine Mafadi, a Maersk-operated vessel, and reported several issues on board including unrepaired leaks, unpermitted alcohol consumption onboard, inoperable lifeboats, and faulty emergency fire suppression equipment. He had been disciplined for not properly maintaining the logbook and failing to properly follow orders, before he was ultimately fired by the company. He later disputed these allegations and said they were in retaliation for reporting alcohol consumption on board the vessel.

The department found that Maersk had a policy that requires employees to first report their concerns to [Maersk] prior to reporting it to the [Coast Guard] or other authorities. Federal officials said there was reasonable cause to believe that the companys policy violated the 1984 Seamans Protection Act , a statute that prohibits an employer from retaliating against maritime workers who report unsafe work conditions.

The department called the policy repugnant to the Act, and in its order wrote that it creates a chilling effect because it dissuades employees from reporting any safety concerns directly to the U.S. Coast Guard and other authorities.

[Maersks] Vice President of Labor Relations, admits that this Reporting Policy requires seamen to report safety concerns to the company and allow it time to abate the conditions before reporting to the [Coast Guard] or other regulatory agencies, the report stated.

Maersk was ordered by federal officials to pay the employee over $700,000 in damages and back wages, and to reinstate him. The shipping conglomerate was also instructed to revise its policy to not prohibit seamen from contacting the USCG or other federal, state or local regulatory agencies before first notifying the company.

Federal law protects a seamans right to report safety concerns to federal regulatory agencies, a fact every maritime industry employer and vessel owner must know, said OSHA Regional Administrator Eric S. Harbin in Dallas. Failure to recognize these rights can instill a culture of intimidation that could lead to disastrous or deadly consequences.

After news of the bridge collapse broke, USA Today found that the Maersk-chartered ship was involved in at least one prior accident before it crashed into the Baltimore bridge, and in 2016, the Dali struck a loading pier made of stone while leaving a port in Antwerp. The collision damaged the ships stern, and an investigation determined the ships master and pilot were to blame for the mistake, per the outlet. No injuries were reported from the Belgium incident; the ship required repair and an inspection before being returned to service.

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Carnival Cruise ships will be rerouted to Norfolk, Virginia, after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge closed the Port of Baltimore for the foreseeable future.

Cruise passengers in the middle of a seven-day trip to the Bahamas on the Carnival Legend that was scheduled to return to Baltimore on Sunday will instead disembark in the southeastern Virginia city, according to Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

Passengers will receive complimentary bus transportation back to Baltimore, a distance of about 233 miles, Duffy said in a news release late Tuesday.

In addition, future cruises on the Carnival Legend and Carnival Pride, including one scheduled to leave on Sunday, will depart and return from the southeastern Virginia city.

As the cruise industry struggles to reroute ships, at least one expert doesnt think the damage done to the travel ship business  nationally or in Baltimore  will likely be permanent.

Carolyn Spencer Brown, a travel journalist, consultant and former editor of Cruise Critic, an online review website, said that the industry has rebounded from the losses it incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic resulting from social distancing mandates and well-publicized reports of shipboard illness.

Cruises for the next few months are fully booked, Brown said. In the short-term, the cruise lines are scrambling like mad to figure out how to reroute their ships and how to minimize the inconvenience to travelers.

The long-term effect will depend on how the bridge is rebuilt. Baltimore is never going to be a superpower port, but it has a lot to offer. It has the capacity to be a bigger cruise port than it is now.

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, Baltimore is the nations 29th busiest port, moving about 378,000 passengers annually. Twelve ships were scheduled to dock at the port 115 times during 2024, the Association said.

The Port of Baltimores Cruise Maryland Terminal is home to four cruise lines: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and American Cruises.

Royal Caribbean is currently in the midst of a 12-night Caribbean cruise aboard the Vision of the Seas that departed March 23 and was scheduled to return to Baltimore April 4. The cruise line wrote in an email on Tuesday that our port logistics team is currently working on alternatives for Vision of the Seas ongoing and upcoming sailings and that updates would be communicated to passengers.

Norwegian, a relatively new line at the port which provides cruises between Baltimore and New England and Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean, operates a fall and winter schedule and had no cruises scheduled immediately for Baltimore.

Americans cruises currently are departing from Washington, according to a spokeswoman; the earliest departures from Baltimore are not on the schedule until May.

Before Tuesday, the Port of Baltimore was responsible for 400 jobs and generated about $63 million in revenue annually for local businesses, according to a report issued last September by the Maryland Port Administration.

U.S. President Joe Biden has pledged federal resources to rebuild the Key Bridge.

More than 40 million people live within a six-hour drive of Baltimore, according to the Port Administration; Brown said that if the new bridge were taller, it could generate additional cruise business for the city.

The biggest ships havent been able to come to Baltimore because they couldnt pass under the bridge, she said.

What Baltimore offers is a very wonderful experience that is close to home. Cruising down the Chesapeake Bay is magical. You see parts of the bay youve never seen before.
The eighth edition of the International Exhibition for National Security & Resilience (ISNR) is set to take place from May 21 to 23 at the Adnec Centre Abu Dhabi for which registration is officially open.

Under the patronage of Lt General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, ISNR 2024, organised by Adnec Group, is the largest platform in the Middle East for national security, cybersecurity and civil protection, a WAM report said.

It contributes to efforts aimed at building safe cities capable of addressing security challenges by integrating security protection with advanced digital and technical innovations. Enhancing national security and cybersecurity has become a global priority, and ISNR Abu Dhabi plays a significant role in advancing these objectives.

Largest yet

ISNR 2024 is anticipated to be the largest yet since the inception of the exhibition and centred around the theme "Accelerating the transformation of the national security ecosystem."

ISNR 2024 is the yearly specialised event that brings together some of the most important and prominent specialised officials concerned with national and cybersecurity, alongside buyers and stakeholders from both the government and private sectors. It serves as a significant international forum for finalising business deals and highlighting digital and technical innovation to shape visions for implementing and addressing future national and cybersecurity measures.

As a pivotal platform for innovation, ISNR 2024 convenes experts, leaders, and global companies to showcase the latest technologies, exchange knowledge, and foster partnerships that shape the future of professionally addressing security challenges.

Four dedicated areas

The upcoming edition will spotlight four dedicated areas: national security, cybersecurity, policing, law enforcement, and critical infrastructure protection. These areas aim to tackle challenges and explore new technologies and best practices to mitigate the ever-increasing threats faced by countries.

Additionally, ISNR 2024 facilitates numerous events aimed at enhancing business communication and fostering partnership relations. These include a comprehensive conference programme and various innovation initiatives. The event stands as an indispensable gathering for staying updated on the latest advancements in promoting and safeguarding national security, as well as addressing global cybersecurity threats.--TradeArabia News Service
New Castle County has launched a grant program aiming to stimulate economic activity along the Philadelphia Pike, Route 13 and Route 9 commercial corridors. Local businesses along the business routes are being encouraged to apply for their share of the grant money.

Partially funded by federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars, New Castle County established the New Castle County Corridor Revitalization Fund to lessen the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on qualified small businesses, churches and nonprofits located on and near the specified thoroughfares.

A total of $440,000 in funding is available. The grant program will be managed by True Access Capital and Claymont Renaissance Development Corp. Administrators anticipate that 40 to 50 grants will be awarded. The program will end on Dec. 31, 2024, or once the funds have been fully utilized.

What the grant can be used for

Awarded funding must be used to improve a business's interior or exterior including:

Facades

Leasehold improvements

Landscaping and hardscaping

Signage

Equipment

The grant can also be used to pay back recently incurred debt for business upgrades.

Funding limits and areas the program covers

Small businesses can apply for either a grant of up to $5,000 or a matching grant of up to $10,000. Qualifying for the grant is simple. "As long as you're an eligible business and you're located in the commercial corridor, you get the $5,000 grant," said Vandell Hampton Jr., president & CEO of True Access Capital. To be awarded the $10,000 grant, eligible businesses must have matching funds.

New Castle County officials and fund administrators are hosting information sessions to offer additional information and assistance with the application process.

New Castle Countys Corridor Revitalization Fund offers grants of up to $10,000 to support eligible small business owners with improvement projects. The grants aim to boost economic activity along the county's commercial corridors identified as needing investment. The shaded areas on the map highlight where grant funds can be utilized.

New Castle Countys Corridor Revitalization Fund offers grants of up to $10,000 to support eligible small business owners with improvement projects. The grants aim to boost economic activity along the county's commercial corridors identified as needing investment. The shaded areas on the map highlight where grant funds can be utilized.

New Castle Countys Corridor Revitalization Fund offers grants of up to $10,000 to support eligible small business owners with improvement projects. The grants aim to boost economic activity along the county's commercial corridors identified as needing investment. The shaded areas on the map highlight where grant funds can be utilized.

Support for ineligible businesses

True Access Capital is also providing support to businesses not located within the fund coverage area or are ineligible for the New Castle County Corridor Revitalization Fund for other reasons.

As a nonprofit community development financial institution, True Access Capital offers financial services, capital loans and technical assistance to small businesses in Delaware and Southeastern Pennsylvania that face difficulty obtaining loans from traditional banks. The organization specifically aims to assist businesses led by individuals from marginalized communities such as people of color and women and those located in low-income areas.

The organization provides a range of services, including micro-loans of up to $500,000, business planning, training, and counseling. The majority of the aid is offered at no cost.

You can contact reporter Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: New Castle County's grant program to aid small businesses, nonprofits
This 2018 photo courtesy of Martin Suazo Sandoval shows Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval after attending a religious service in Baltimore, Maryland. Maynor is one of the missing people who was part of a maintenance crew on the bridge in Baltimore that collapsed, according to his brother Martin. (Martin Suazo Sandoval via AP)

AZACUALPA, Honduras (AP)  The construction workers who went missing in the Baltimore bridge collapse came to the Maryland area from Mexico or Central America, including an enterprising Honduran father and husband who started a delivery business before the pandemic forced him to find other work, according to his family.

Police managed to close bridge traffic seconds before a cargo ship slammed into one of the Francis Scott Key Bridges supports early Tuesday, causing the span to fall into the frigid Patapsco River. There wasn't time for a maintenance crew filling potholes on the span to get to safety.

At least eight people fell into the water and two were rescued. Two bodies were recovered Wednesday and four remained missing and were presumed dead.

The governments of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras confirmed that their citizens were among the missing.

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 38, was the youngest of eight siblings from Azacualpa, a rural mountainous area in northwestern Honduras along the border with Guatemala.

Eighteen years ago, he set out on his own for the U.S. looking for opportunities. He had worked as an industrial technician in Honduras, repairing equipment in the large assembly plants, but the pay was too low to get ahead, one of his brothers, Martin Suazo Sandoval, said Wednesday while standing in the dirt street in front of the familys small hotel in Honduras.

He always dreamed of having his own business, he said.

Another brother, Carlos Suazo Sandoval, said Maynor hoped to retire one day back in Guatemala.

He was the baby for all of us, the youngest. He was someone who was always happy, was always thinking about the future. He was a visionary, he told The Associated Press by phone Wednesday from Dundalk, Maryland, near the site of the bridge collapse.

Maynor entered the United States illegally and settled in Maryland. At first, he did any work he could find, including construction and clearing brush. Eventually, he started a package delivery business in the Baltimore-Washington area, Martin Suazo Sandoval said.

Other siblings and relatives followed him north.

He was the fundamental pillar, the bastion so that other members of the family could also travel there and later get visas and everything, Martin Suazo Sandoval said. He was really the driving force so that most of the family could travel.

Maynor has a wife and two children ages 17 and 5, he said.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced Maynor to find other work, and he joined Brawner Builders, the company that was performing maintenance on the bridge when it collapsed.

Martin Suazo Sandoval said Maynor never talked about being scared of the work, despite the heights he worked at on the bridges. He always told us that you had to triple your effort to get ahead, Martin Suazo Sandoval said. He said it didn't matter what time or where the job was, you had to be where the work was.

Things had been going well for him until the collapse. He was moving through the steps to get legal residency and planned to return to Honduras this year to complete the process, his brother said.

Even though Maynor had not been able to return to Honduras, he had financially supported various nongovernmental social organizations in town, as well as the youth soccer league, his brother said. The area depends largely upon agriculture  coffee, cattle, sugarcane  he said.

Maynor's employer broke the news of his disappearance to his family, leaving them devastated, especially his mother, who still lives in Azacualpa, Martin Suazo Sandoval said.

These are difficult moments, and the only thing we can do is keep the faith, he said, noting that his younger brother knew how to swim and could have ended up anywhere. If the worst outcome is confirmed, he said the family would work to return his body to Honduras.

In Mexico, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said three Mexicans were on the bridge when it fell, including one who was injured but rescued and two who were still missing. He wouldn't share their names for the families privacy.

The tragedy illustrated the contributions that migrants make to the U.S. economy, Lopez Obrador said.

This demonstrates that migrants go out and do risky jobs at midnight. And for this reason, they do not deserve to be treated as they are by certain insensitive, irresponsible politicians in the United States, he said.

Later, Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent of Maryland State Police, announced that the bodies of two men, ages 35 and 26, had been located by divers inside a red pickup submerged in about 25 feet (7.6 meters) of water near the bridges middle span.

One was Guatemalan Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, and the other 35-year-old Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, originally from Mexico.

Guatemalas Foreign Affairs Ministry had earlier confirmed that two of its citizens were among the missing. And El Salvador's foreign minister, Alexandra Hill Tinoco, posted Wednesday on X that one Salvadoran citizen, Miguel Luna, was among the missing workers.

Federal and state investigators have said the crash appears to have been an accident.

___

Associated Press reporters Sonia Perez D. in Guatemala City, Marcos Aleman in San Salvador, El Salvador, Mark Stevenson in Mexico City and Will Weissert in Dundalk, Maryland, contributed to this report.

___

This story was updated to correct Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandovals age. He was 38 years old, not 39.
Defending the filibuster has been a core tenet of Republican Senate orthodoxy under Sen. Mitch McConnells time as party leader. But with an impending change in leadership, the GOP Senate conference might soften its full-throated support for the filibusterit might even reform it. And one of the leading candidates to replace McConnell may have inadvertently made a powerful argument for doing so years ago.

That Republicans of an earlier generation instinctively defend the filibuster makes political sense. Between 1933 and 1995, Republicans controlled the Senate for just 10 years. They controlled the House for only four years. Its no surprise that Republicans would come to view the prospect of congressional action with more fear than hope, or that they have looked to the filibusterwith the often insurmountable hurdle it poses to passing legislationto allay that fear. But times have changed: Republicans have controlled the Senate for 16 of the 29 years since 1995.

Partisan interests aside, Republicans should also worry that congressional gridlockto which the filibuster contributes significantlystrains the other branches of government with misdirected political pressure. In the face of congressional paralysis, presidents have aggressively interpreted existing statutory authority, especially where politics makes inaction untenable. The Supreme Court finds itself at the center of political controversy when it strikes down presidential overreach. That dynamic results from Congressional inaction.

Moreover, if Republicans dont reform the filibuster to allow more legislation to make it to the presidents desk, frustration on the part of congressional Democrats and their base will continue to mount. Soon enough, Democrats might choose to eliminate the filibuster, not to pass legislation but to transform the Supreme Courtby packing the court or imposing term limits. (Note that the Democrats foremost defenders of the filibuster, Sens. Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, are leaving the Senate.) A continued lack of reform could lay the groundwork for full repealand a repeal with a far more destabilizing purpose.

In light of these dynamics, the case for reforming the filibuster in the interest of conserving our core governing arrangements grows stronger by the day.

Those like us who support conservative reforms to the filibuster that square with the framers vision of the Senates deliberative role should be heartened to know that a leading contender for Senate GOP leader has voiced frustration with the current state of the Senate. I believe the Senate is brokenthat is not news to anyone, said Sen. John Cornyn of Texas last month as he announced he would seek the leadership post. The good news is that it can be fixed, and I intend to play a major role in fixing it.

Better still, Cornyn has voiced openness to certain filibuster reforms.

In a 2003 article published in the Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy, Cornyn argued emphatically against filibusters of judicial nominees. In doing so, he came out in strong support of majority rule as a first principle of American government. The essence of our democratic system of government is simple: Majorities must be permitted to govern, wrote Cornyn. He also approvingly quoted Alexander Hamilton in Federalist No. 22: The fundamental maxim of republican government  requires that the sense of the majority should prevail.

Granted, Cornyn took care in his article to focus on filibusters of judicial nominees in particular. He distinguished those from standard filibusters of legislation. The extensive use of filibusters to defeat legislation throughout this bodys history stands in stark contrast  to the historical absence of filibusters of judicial nominations, Cornyn wrote.

But Cornyn might be persuaded that the legislative filibusters historical pedigree is not that strong after all. Of course, the filibusteror the use of prolonged debate as a procedural tactichas been around since 1806. However, the use of the filibuster has taken off only in recent decades. Although its impossible to precisely measure filibuster frequency, the Brookings Institutions Molly Reynolds explains that the frequency of cloture motionsmotions to end debate and thereby allow a vote on the underlying questionis the best proxy. Those motions have skyrocketed in recent decades:

Sometimes, a difference in degree is a difference in kind. If Cornyn were persuaded that the current iteration of the legislative filibuster turns out to lack the sort of historical pedigree that warrants flouting, in James Madisons words, the fundamental principle of free government that majorities must rule the legislature, then he might also be persuaded that filibuster reform should focus on fostering deliberation. After all, the best defenses of the filibuster align with the best defenses of the Senate itself: slowing down debate and giving people time to reason.

Thats exactly what were after when we propose that if a bill cant obtain a filibuster-proof supermajority, the filibuster should be reformed so that the bill can still pass through the Senate if it obtains a simple majority twiceover the course of two successive Congresses, with an election in between. Cornyns original proposal for filibuster reform for judicial nominees back in 2003 shared similar impulses. He proposed gradually lowering the threshold for confirming a nominee as the debate on that nominee progressed. In other words, the higher threshold at the outset would help ensure that there is adequate debate and deliberation before a final decision is made. But in the end, the majority would govern. Its the American way. Explicitly baking in a cooling-off period (like an intervening election cycle) prior to a definitive simple majority vote does the same trick.

Cornyn also noted that there are strong constitutional arguments that a majority of Senators retains the constitutional right at least to adopt rules abolishing or regulating the use of the filibuster. Therefore, should Cornyn be persuaded of the need for this conservative filibuster reform, his past writings also indicate that he agrees with us that theres no need to resort to the nuclear option to accomplish it: a simple majority of senators has the power to change its rules and reform the filibuster at the outset of a legislative session.

Of course, much has changedin the GOP, the Senate, and the countryin the intervening years. Its possible that Cornyns view of the filibuster, and openness to reform, has shifted too. But the need to reimagine how to make Congress more effective and deliberative remains as important as ever.

Cornyn has spoken in the past about how the filibuster gives both parties peace of mind: In 2013, he said that whatever a filibuster-reforming party does to the minority is what they will have to live with in the future when they inevitably lose their majority. But another way of protecting ones party and policy priorities going forward is by provisionally passing popular legislation, campaigning on the basis of that proposed legislation, winning election as a result, and then passing that legislation for good. Thats the route the GOP should take when it comes to filibuster reform. It will ward off the destruction of the filibuster by Democrats and prevent frequent rushes to cram through highly partisan legislation, which Cornyn rightly worries about.

It also would place Republicans in a far more powerful rhetorical position to combat Democrats argument that democracy requires a wholesale repeal of the filibuster: If Democrats are concerned about democracy, Republicans could argue, why not give the American people a chance to sign off on the majoritys legislative agenda by voting it back into office after the public knows exactly what it plans to do? The majority could rule, but only after voters approve its choices.

The greatest Republican, Abraham Lincoln, said in his first inaugural address: The rule of a minority, as a permanent arrangement, is wholly inadmissible. Americans still share those same democratic impulses today. Republicans can reform and preserve the filibuster while still claiming the mantle of democracy. Thats critical. As Lincoln said, in America, public sentiment is everything. With public sentiment, nothing can fail; without it nothing can succeed.

Sometimes, we must reform in order to conserve. So it goes with the Senate filibuster. Should he become the next Senate GOP leader, hopefully Cornyn will agree. His past writings on filibuster reform provide some reason to hope that he will.

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Since Jan. 6, 2021, former President Donald Trump has continued his assault on American institutions, and the concept of truth itself.

Bipartisan experts in democracy, law and national security agree that a second Trump term represents an existential threat to our republic. For guidance on dealing with politicians whose character flaws led them to self-inflicted scandal, Tennessee history offers some singular examples.

In the 1970s, Tennessee officials from both political parties demonstrated leadership during times of crisis, events brought about by chief executives who abused their offices: President Richard Nixon during Watergate and Tennessee Gov. Ray Blanton during the clemency for cash scandal. President Nixon was a Republican and Governor Blanton was a Democrat.

How Howard Baker

President Nixon abused the power of the presidency and obstructed justice in the ensuing investigations, resulting in the Watergate scandal in the early 1970s. Tennessee Sen. Howard H. Baker Jr. served as the ranking Republican on the Senate Committee investigating the scandal. Although Baker started out to protect the president, when presented with evidence of Nixons wrongdoing, he changed his mind and began grilling witnesses to uncover the truth. Facing impeachment, President Nixon resigned.

Baker is recognized as the Father of the Republican Party in Tennessee. Remembering his bipartisan service with Democrats during Watergate, Baker said, We worked together. We understood that there were some things more important than gaining immediate partisan advantage. And there were some things that were necessary to do, in order to preserve and protect your own constituency. In my case, the Republican Party.

By the late 1970s, Governor Blantons administration was embroiled in controversy over its corrupt sale of liquor licenses and pardons. Republican Lamar Alexander had won the 1978 gubernatorial race and was set to be sworn into office in January 1979. After the FBI provided him information that Blanton planned to release more inmates before Alexanders inauguration, Democratic U.S. Attorney Hal Hardin apprised Governor-elect Alexander of the impending disaster.

This led quickly to meetings with Lt. Gov.John Wilder, Speaker of the House Ned Ray McWherter and Attorney General Bill Leech. After consulting the Tennessee Constitution, the officials made the decision to swear Alexander into office three days early. None of them wanted to do it.

Newly sworn-in Gov. Lamar Alexander kisses his wife Honey, who is holding the family Bible used in the ceremony Jan. 17, 1979. Alexander was sworn in four days early after the decision to oust Gov. Ray Blanton after the FBI received solid information that he definitely would free 18 to 20 more inmates suspected of buying their release.

After the ceremony, WTVF-Channel 5 Reporter Hank Allison asked McWherter about the partisan implications of the early swearing-in. Allison said: The man you just swore in is a Republican. Youre a Democrat, and most of the people who participated in the decision to swear him in early, are Democrats. McWherter politely interjected, Let me say to youfirst, Im a Tennessean. And I think this is in the interest of Tennessee, regardless of the party.

We cannot forget McCullough's admonition that 'character is destiny'

Baker was a personal friend and political ally of President Nixon. Hardin was Governor Blantons first appointment to the state trial bench. McWherter and Wilder were, like Blanton, West Tennessee Democrats with close ties to the governor. These Tennesseans honored their oaths to support the federal and state constitutions  not individuals, political parties or their own self-interest. History records that, during challenging times, they proved themselves worthy of the public trust.

The late David McCullough, the Pulitzer Prize-winning historian whose biographies celebrate American presidents from both parties, warned us about Trump in 2016, citing the ancient Greek admonition that character is destiny. McCullough said: "It's up to all of us  all of us  Republicans, Democrats, Independents, young and old."

Let's pause and think  and think carefully  this far-reaching, all-important choice of leadership, is ours to make. We will be held responsible.

Mark Dudney

How will history judge us?"

Mark Dudney of Cookeville is an author, historian and former history instructor at Tennessee Tech.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Trump scandals: Look to Nixon and Blanton to see why character matters
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) The Office of State Inspector General announced that over 90 people are charged with public assistance fraud for February in Pennsylvania.

According to the OSIG, 94 people are facing charges of defrauding the public assistance system. There are 74 people who are facing felony charges and 20 people who are facing misdemeanor charges.

If all of the individuals are convicted they would have to pay back a combined restitution of $411,192. The amount may grow because the OSIG says that there will be additional cost savings and the defendants will be disqualified from receiving benefits from the program they defrauded.

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The 94 people allegedly misrepresented their household circumstances and fraudulently received taxpayer-funded public benefits to which they were not entitled, the OSIG says.

Combatting benefits fraud is essential to preserving public trust in these programs and making sure they serve those who genuinely need support, State Inspector General Lucas M. Miller said in a statement. OSIG remains committed to holding accountable those who attempt to defraud taxpayers and misuse public resources.

The maximum penalty if convicted of fraud is seven years in prison and a fine of $15,000. In the case of SNAP, cash assistance or subsidized care fraud the defendants will be disqualified from the program.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A Charlotte man has been sentenced to life in prison for the armed robbery of two local businesses, according to the United States Attorneys Office.

In October 2022, John Henry Moore, 60, was convicted of:

Two counts of Hobbs Act robbery

Possession of a firearm in violent crime

Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

On Tuesday, March 26, Moore was sentenced to life in prison under the Three Strikes statute, which mandates such a sentence for defendants previously convicted, on separate occasions, of two or more serious violent felonies.

Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area  >> Latest stories here

On Dec. 1, 2018, Moore robbed a Spectrum store at 2222 South Blvd. Evidence shows Moore entered the building around 8 p.m. and waved a firearm to employees. He then ordered the employees to hand over cash from the registers before fleeing the scene.

Officials say Moore left behind an umbrella at the scene to prop the door open during the robbery. It was tested by the FBI and reportedly had DNA that matched Moore.

Less than two weeks later, on Dec. 10, Moore robbed a Publix in the same building. Evidence shows he walked into the store, approached an employee and demanded cash.

Documents show Moore kept his hand in his pocket during the robbery and threatened the employee to not get shot. The employee gave Moore cash before he left the scene.

Monroe man accused of carrying multiple weapons into Walmart, now out on bond

Moore was quickly identified as the suspect who committed both robberies and two days later, officers sued a search warrant at Moores residence. There, they allegedly found a loaded firearm with an obliterated serial number and clothing that matched the description Moore was wearing during the robberies, according to evidence.

Moores sentence of life in prison is based on his history involving multiple federal bank robbery convictions. Officials say he robbed a bank in 2004 in Georgia and three banks in South Carolina in 1995. He was reportedly on supervised release for the South Carolina robberies when he robbed the Charlotte businesses in 2018.

The Hobbs Act pertains to robberies and extortion related to foreign goods.

Additionally, when Moore robbed the banks in Georgia and South Carolina, he was on federal supervised release for robbing two Charlotte banks and one in Rock Hill in 1989.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
British farmers staged protests in Westminster over the effect cheap imports are having on their businesses - Paul Grover for the Telegraph

Musical horns, bells, and sirens screeched throughout Westminster on Monday evening. This was not another Extinction Rebellion sit-in, but rather a disruptive peak hour convoy of tractors calling for fairness for British farmers.

It has undoubtedly been a difficult few years for many farmers, who have struggled with higher fuel and energy costs, as well as increased fertiliser and animal feed prices.

There has also been a marked failure to reassess unnecessary, unscientific and costly regulations after Brexit. Even the effort to allow gene editing has come to little due to the glacial pace of the Food Standards Agency. This bleak picture, however, is far from universal.

According to official government statistics, British farming business incomes reached exceptional highs in 2022/23 due to higher global food prices. Nevertheless, the protesters are reportedly particularly concerned about the threat of post-Brexit trade deals with Australia and New Zealand, which cut tariffs and reduce quotas on various agricultural goods.

These deals enable Britons to access a greater variety of food at lower prices and give British car, whisky and biscuit makers tariff-free access to the Aussie and Kiwi markets. Waitrose began selling the Aussie cult favourite biscuit, Tim Tams, just this week. In a small but significant sign, the product sold out online in just days.

Britains farmers, however, assert they are being undercut by lower-quality produce. This is entirely absurd and not believed by the public. A previous poll indicated that around two-thirds support deals with Australia and New Zealand and consider those countries to have high food safety and animal welfare standards.

Tens of millions of Britons who have travelled to the Antipodes and experienced the food firsthand over the years can attest to that.

In any case, a food product imported into the UK must follow the same food safety and animal welfare standards  along with additional burdensome import paperwork. There is also an extended 15-year adjustment period for the most difficult sectors, such as beef and lamb, which gives the industry plenty of time to adapt.

Protesters have also raised concerns about Britains food security due to a lack of domestic production. But shutting ourselves off from the rest of the world would risk higher prices, less choice, and, ultimately, much more risk.

Britons might come close to starvation without imports. Nearly half of the food we consume comes from overseas, despite over two-thirds of the UKs land area already being used for agricultural production. Fresh food, in particular, disproportionately comes from overseas, including half of all veggies and an even higher proportion of fresh fruit.

These imports arent bad for food security  quite the opposite. The benefit of all this international trade is that in a poor year for domestic production, we can still access all the food we need by relying on diverse sources.

At the heart of this debate is whether Britain should return to the farming policy of our days in the European Union. It is notable that Liz Webster, the anti-Brexit activist behind the Save British Farming campaign, helped organise this weeks convoy.

Webster, who likes to blame Brexit for Britains farmers woes, may have missed the much bigger tractor protests across European capitals in recent months. Nevertheless, she explicitly wants the UK to rejoin the single market, which presumably means again partaking in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the EUs farm subsidy regime.

The post-Brexit farm subsidies are being maintained at 2.4bn but transforming from being land-based, which has always benefited the largest property owners, to payments for conservation and biodiversity activities.

This is far from perfect  but ultimately, a system of payments for nature protection is a more sensible policy than what came before.

No other industry is entitled to large taxpayer funds just for existing. The CAP made British farming less productive, as the subsidies blunted the incentive to plant the most efficient crops or invest in new technologies. This has ultimately led to a less financially sustainable industry.

Food prices can be cheaper in Australia and New Zealand not only because they have a greater scale but also because the domestic subsidies were abolished in the 1980s. Farmers heavily protested about their lost taxpayer funds but ultimately moved towards more efficient crops, invested in the sector and have become much more efficient in competing on the global stage.

The production efficiency means that even after considering transport emissions, the likes of imported lamb from New Zealand have a lower carbon footprint.

In this post-Brexit era, it is incumbent on British farmers to seek out global opportunities, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, where a growing middle class is undoubtedly hungry for British-made products. Closing off from the rest of the world and becoming less efficient cannot be the solution.

In a recent BBC radio documentary, a Welsh farmer suggested he would have to turn down a 46,000 payment for environmental purposes because the requirements are too strict.

Instead, the farmer said, he would be forced to expand his production with more sheep. This is quite a shocking sign that the subsidies have done little to produce a more secure, resilient and sustainable British food industry.

The Government could do far more to take advantage of Brexit, but a closed-minded approach that rejects trade deals hurts British consumers and reduces our food security is far from the right response.

Matthew Lesh is the Director of Public Policy and Communications at the Institute of Economic Affairs

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.
Virginias second most populous city continues to grow and thrive thanks to regional efforts, Mayor Rick West said Wednesday during Chesapeakes State of the City address.

I know that this address is about our city, but I think its fair to say that without the tremendous alliance of the mayors in this region, our individual successes would be much smaller, West said.

About 800 people attended the annual event hosted by the Hampton Roads Chamber at the Chesapeake Conference Center.

West pointed to Total Fiber Recovery @ Chesapeakes $80 million investment in a waterfront industrial facility that transforms recycled paper and corrugated cardboard into pulp for the paper industry. The facility is slated to open soon, according to its website, and will create 68 jobs with an annual payroll of $5 million.

Chesapeake continues to seek opportunities to recycle and redirect waste material in ways that are both environmentally friendly and economically sound not only for today, but for tomorrow, he said.

He talked about the citys downtown area of Greenbrier, home to Summit Pointe and the regions largest employment center.

The potential for growth coupled with a strong desire to attract amenities to entice visitors and residents makes Greenbrier a link in the future of Chesapeake, he said. Who knew that it was destined to be the hub of our city and the region?

Residents continue asking about the future of Greenbrier Mall, West said. He added that while discussions are ongoing, the ideas and rumors circulating about such a prime, large site are vast.

Related Articles

In other parts of the city, West said a groundbreaking is on the horizon in the heart of historic South Norfolk for a new municipal building. Located at the intersection of Bainbridge Boulevard and Poindexter Street, it will serve as a satellite site and one-stop shop for the city treasurer and commissioner of the revenue. The building, complete with an attached parking garage open to the public, will include a police precinct and other functions, he said.

We know its going to be another gem for the revitalization of South Norfolk, West said.

Plans are also underway for a new aquatic facility at The Dr. Clarence V. Cuffee Community Center.

Its not merely a swimming pool, he said. This facility will provide family activities, swimming lessons, therapeutic programs and much more to the community for years to come.

Even with all of the growth, West said the city is still blessed with extensive, beautiful open spaces throughout its 350 square miles.

Theres a lot happening in Chesapeake, he said. The state of our city is stronger today than its ever been.

Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@pilotonline.com
CHICAGO  Nearly a dozen members of Chicagos City Council Wednesday demanded Mayor Brandon Johnson call for removing ally Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez as head of the councils Housing Committee as punishment for the alderman speaking in front of a charred American flag at a pro-Palestinian rally outside City Hall this past Friday.

While its unclear how closely Johnson will heed the call for action, the clamor came as the group of aldermen held a heated news conference at City Hall, where all three veterans on the council and several colleagues blasted as reprehensible Sigcho-Lopezs participation in the demonstration where protest organizers say a veteran set fire to the American flag. The aldermanic group also pledged to hold a special council meeting if Sigcho-Lopez isnt held accountable.

We are demanding that our mayor, Brandon Johnson, call for his resignation as chair of the Housing Committee, said Ald. Silvana Tabares, 23rd. As mayor, Johnson has tremendous sway over which aldermen head the council committees.

But just as Tabares made the demand, a group of pro-Palestinian protesters and Sigcho-Lopez supporters standing nearby broke into chants. The shouts, calling the more than 30,000 civilian deaths in Gaza genocide, halted the news conference for several minutes.

Sigcho-Lopezs appearance with the scorched flag came last Friday at a demonstration outside City Hall held by a Gaza-focused group calling for the Democratic National Convention in Chicago to be canceled or aggressively protested. The flag was set on fire by a Marine veteran who once flew it while on tour in Afghanistan, according to organizers.

The Little Village alderman, who has strongly noted his support for Gazans in past council meetings, has said he was unaware the flag would be burned, did not see it when he arrived and was not at the protest when the act occurred. He attended the protest to criticize the Democratic Partys lack of support for migrants and has joined calls for the DNC to be canceled.

Following the news conference by the 11 aldermen, Sigcho-Lopez shot back at his critics in a statement that accused them of being motivated by campaign contributors who prefer to keep their 80,000 units of available housing vacant while veterans and families sleep on the streets.

When they start living up to the proud American values of justice and liberty for *all human beings*, then theyll have the moral standing to question my commitment to uplifting American people, he wrote in a text.

Harsh debate over Israels attacks in Gaza following Hamas October surprise attack have brought disorder to the City Council for months. Loud protests during council meetings have twice led to security clearing spectators before aldermen narrowly passed a symbolic resolution calling for a cease-fire in late January.

Amid those sharp rebukes from aldermen and protester shouts on Wednesday, council members defended their criticism of Sigcho-Lopez as necessary.

Yes, this is divisive, this is a distraction, said Ald. Raymond Lopez, 15th. Its authored by Byron Sigcho-Lopez, who should be worrying about the migrant shelter in his ward, who should be worried about finding housing options for those who are housed there. Those are the things we should be working on.

Marine and Army National Guard veteran Ald. Chris Taliaferro, 29th, said Sigcho-Lopez overstepped when he spoke in front of not only the charred flag but also a sign accusing Democratic President Joe Biden of enabling genocide. Like several other veterans who spoke Wednesday, Taliaferro invoked the image of flag-draped coffins carrying soldiers killed in active duty as he spoke about the flags meaning.

His conduct and his speech were reprehensible to the point where we are demanding he account for his actions, Taliaferro said.

Taliaferro carefully avoided taking a stance on whether council members will seek to formally censure Sigcho-Lopez, but said Sigcho-Lopez needs to explain his actions before the full City Council.

Whether or not Taliaferro and others will be able to force the issue is unclear. While the coalition criticizing Sigcho-Lopez does have the ability to schedule a special City Council meeting, the 11-member group is not currently large enough to establish a quorum and begin such a meeting. Tabares said she is confident a quorum would be reached if a meeting is called.

In addition to Tabares and Taliaferro, the news conference was also attended by Ald. Nick Sposato, 38th; Ald. Marty Quinn, 13th; Ald. Felix Cardona Jr., 31st; Ald. Debra Silverstein, 50th; Ald. Raymond Lopez, 15th; Ald. Brendan Reilly, 42nd; Ald. Anthony Napolitano, 41st; Ald. Gilbert Villegas, 36th; and Ald. Bill Conway, 34th.

Conway, an active Navy reservist, said he took an oath to defend freedoms, including the freedom to burn flags.

I have fought to protect his right to be reprehensible. And Id do it again. Byron has the right to be inflammatory, Conway said. But he has a bigger responsibility as a committee chair and member of the mayors leadership team because this job isnt about elevating people who want to burn everything down. Its about bringing people together to build our communities up.

Villegas, a Marine combat veteran, said he understands the frustration the veteran who set the flag on fire feels, citing his own struggles finding employment after returning to civilian life. But Sigcho-Lopez is held to another, higher standard, he said.

He called on Sigcho-Lopez to apologize and advance an ordinance that would give veterans better access to the citys affordable housing in an effort to address homelessness among veterans. The ordinance has been stalled in Sigcho-Lopezs housing committee for months, Villegas said.

hensible. And Id do it again. Byron has the right to be inflammatory, Conway said. But he has a bigger responsibility as a committee chair and member of the mayors leadership team because this job isnt about elevating people who want to burn everything down. Its about bringing people together to build our communities up.

Villegas, a Marine combat veteran, said he understands the frustration the veteran who set the flag on fire feels, citing his own struggles finding employment after returning to civilian life. But Sigcho-Lopez is held to another higher standard, he said.

He called on Sigcho-Lopez to apologize and advance an ordinance that would give veterans better access to the citys affordable housing in an effort to address homelessness among veterans. The ordinance has been stalled in Sigcho-Lopezs housing committee for months, Villegas said.

____
CHICAGO  The Chicago Department of Public Health is taking new steps to contain a citywide outbreak of measles.

As the number of measles cases continues to grow, city and health officials are encouraging residents of a Pilsen-area migrant shelter to receive a second dose of the MMR vaccine.

Dr. Cynthia Ambler, with Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital, says that in all her years as a pediatrician, shes never seen such a high count of measles cases in the community.

More Coverage: WGNs Medical Watch

Theres a lot of different things going on where we have new people coming into our community that we may not know their vaccination status or they may not have had access to the vaccine and I think theres still some vaccine hesitancy, Ambler said.

The state of Illinois has so far logged 31 cases of measles as of this writing, marking the first time in nearly a decade that the state has seen cases in the double digits.

This is a bad virus and its really contagious, Ambler said.

On Monday, the City of Chicago announced changes to its vaccine policy. The policy requires kids to get a second dose of the vaccine due to an increase in measles cases among youth at the Halsted shelter.

So, if someone has one vaccine, they are likely 92-93% protected, Ambler said. If you get your second vaccine, its up to 96-97%.

Dr. Ambler is not associated with the City of Chicago but remains an expert on childhood diseases and vaccines.

Thought this was the end. Man with football-sized heart tumor thankful for surgeon who stepped up when others wouldnt

Anyone over the age of 12 months, we recommend the first dose as soon as you come in for that 12-month checkup, Ambler said. In the community thats being affected, they recommend a second dose 28 days later. In the standard community we recommend second doses between 4-6 years of age.

The new policy is expected to impact about 50 kids at the shelter. The second dose will be given 28 days after the first dose is received, which Dr. Ambler says is perfectly safe and not unheard of.

Its a really good vaccine and most of us as adults are still immune to measles because of the vaccinations we had as children, Ambler said.

She says the city is making the right call.

It gets spread really farther than most viruses and thats why we say, This is a big one, this is one we really want to try and contain,' Ambler said.

The city says about 4500 migrants have received the measles vaccine since the first case was identified, and administering those doses will continue.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 27. The emerging opportunities of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, or Middle Corridor) show very good results with coordinated work, said Deputy Minister of Transport of Kazakhstan Maksat Kaliakparov, Trend reports.

He made the remark during the exporters forum and the trade and economic cooperation conference themed 'China (Sichuan)-Kazakhstan 2024'.

"Just recently, as part of the working visit of President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Azerbaijan, a teleconference was held to meet a container block train that traveled along the TITR from Chinese Xi'an to Azerbaijan's Absheron. If we compare this with the peak of transportation in the summer of 2022, when cargo delivery times reached 53 days, the emerging capabilities of TITR show very good results with coordinated work," Kaliakparov said.

The Deputy Minister of Transport also spoke about the measures taken by Kazakhstan to develop this route and noted that all measures contribute to the development of logistics routes in the China-Europe direction and the improvement of transport connectivity between China and Kazakhstan.

The Middle Corridor is a transportation and trade route that connects Asia and Europe, passing through several countries in the region. It is an alternative route to the traditional Northern Corridor and Southern Corridor.

The route starts in China and crosses Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. It then passes through the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye before reaching Europe.

The Middle Corridor offers a land route that connects the eastern parts of Asia, including China, with Europe, bypassing the longer maritime routes.
CHICAGO - Two suspects were arrested in Roseland Tuesday afternoon after crashing into a squad car while fleeing police.

Larry Smith, 18, and a 17-year-old boy were stopped by police in the 300 block of West 110th Street around 12:22 p.m. when officers saw them getting into a vehicle that was previously reported stolen.

Smith and the teenager attempted to flee when they ran into a Chicago police squad car. They both got out and attempted to flee on foot.

They were placed into custody a short time later and a weapon was recovered.

Smith was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, possession of a stolen vehicle, and two misdemeanors. The juvenile was charged with one misdemeanor count of criminal trespass.

A detention hearing was scheduled for Wednesday.
The Chicago Department of Public Health in March 2024 confirmed 33 cases of measles in the city, with one cluster in a shelter for migrants. But social media posts claiming new arrivals are refusing to get vaccinated against the highly contagious virus are false; local officials say inoculation or proof of prior immunity is required for temporary housing -- and that those living in the affected facility agreed to the jab when it was offered .

"They're saying most of them obviously are not vaccinated for measles, and when asked to get this vaccine, they are obviously saying no," a woman claims in a March 16, 2024 TikTok video also shared on Instagram and Facebook.

The speaker claims newly arrived migrants in the third-largest US city are being given housing and other benefits with no restrictions -- despite their immunization status.

Screenshot from Instagram taken March 19, 2023

Screenshot from TikTok taken March 19, 2023

The clip racked up tens of thousands of views as Chicago grappled with an outbreak of measles, a respiratory infection that causes a rash and high fever and can lead to pneumonia and other serious complications.

As of March 27, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) had recorded 33 cases of measles in 2024 -- more than two-thirds of which occurred in children aged four and younger (archived here). The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also reported cases in Illinois and neighboring Indiana, Missouri and Michigan (archived here), some of which were linked to international travel (archived here).

Claims about unvaccinated migrants bringing measles to the Midwest are widespread on social media. Since August 2022, Chicago has welcomed more than 37,000 new arrivals from the US-Mexico border (archived here), including some on chartered buses sent by Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

But Jacob Martin, public information coordinator for the CDPH, said new arrivals did not bring measles to the city.

"We can confidently say measles was already here," he told AFP on March 19, adding that the city is treating vaccination as "a requirement to be admitted to a shelter."

CDPH has also said it is "maintaining a standing presence" at the landing zone for new arrivals, screening and directing them to follow-up care with Cook County Health (archived here).

AFP contacted the CDC for comment, but a response was not forthcoming.

Outbreak timeline

The Indiana Department of Health confirmed a measles case in Lake County on February 23 (archived here). CDPH said the same day that the person sought care at three Chicago hospitals between February 11 and 16, when they were still contagious (archived here).

The agency confirmed the first case in a Chicagoan on March 6 -- the first in five years (archived here).

Two days later, CDPH announced the first measles case at the Halsted Street shelter for migrants in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood (archived here).

CDPH said March 14 that it had vaccinated around 900 residents of the shelter and confirmed "immunity for the remainder, meaning they were either previously vaccinated or had been infected so were protected" (archived here). Residents were instructed to quarantine for 21 days to give the vaccine time to work.

"One of the success stories here, especially for the measles response, is that of all those who are eligible that were offered vaccines, we had no refusals," said CDPH Commissioner Olusimbo "Simbo" Ige during a March 13 press conference.

By March 25, CDPH reported the number of cases in the facility had risen to 26, with 19 in children below the age of five (archived here).

The agency said it was extending the two-dose measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination requirements for children attending K-12 school in Illinois to younger migrants wishing to attend preschool or daycare (archived here). For those too young to be vaccinated, CDPH requires exclusion "from daycare or early learning until 21 days after their last measles exposure."

Falling vaccination rates

The CDC recommends a first dose of the MMR vaccine at 12 months of age and a second at four to six years of age, but anyone who is unvaccinated can receive the jab (archived here). Migrants in the Halsted shelter are being offered an accelerated vaccination schedule, with the second dose administered 28 days following the first.

Cook County Health spokesperson Alex Normington told AFP on March 26 that its providers have treated some 27,000 patients in the Chicago area since September 2022, administering more than 73,000 vaccines -- including the MMR shot.

The World Health Organization says on its website that "measles vaccination averted 56 million deaths between 2000 and 2021" (archived here). The Americas are the first region in the world where measles is no longer considered endemic, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) (archived here).

However, the WHO has also found the Covid-19 pandemic affected coverage. In 2022, only about 83 percent of children received one dose of measles vaccine by their first birthday -- the lowest since 2008.

The PAHO warns falling vaccination rates put the Americas at greater risk for outbreaks.

"For years, coverage with the first dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine remained above 90 percent in the Americas," the group said in a March 21 briefing (archived here).

"But in 2019, it dropped to 87 percent, reaching its lowest point in 2022 at 85 percent -- well below PAHO's recommended ideal of at least 95 percent to prevent outbreaks."

More of AFP's reporting on misinformation about migration is available here.
Several U.S. business leaders met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday, when he made his case calling for closer ties between the two largest economies in the world.

The all-male meeting was held in Beijing and came as the U.S. and China have had a steady improvement in relations in the past several years. Xi expressed that the relationship is mutually beneficial, despite U.S. pushback on the influence of the Chinese Communist Party, The Associated Press reported.

Blackstone founder Stephen Schwarzman, Qualcomm President and CEO Cristiano Amon, Bloomberg Chair Mark Carney and FedEx President Rajesh Subramaniam were among the attendees, according to local media.

Chinas economy has struggled to rebound after the COVID-19 pandemic, but Xi said the country is again contributing to global economic growth, according to the AP.

Sino-U.S. relations are one of the most important bilateral relations in the world. Whether China and the United States cooperate or confront each other has a bearing on the well-being of the two peoples and the future and destiny of mankind, Xi said, per the AP, citing Chinas official Xinhua News Agency.

The meeting follows a sit-down between Xi and President Biden last November in San Francisco and shows signs of the improved relations. Other members of the Biden administration have traveled or will soon visit China to host meetings with top leaders.

The AP noted that trade and tariffs between the two countries have drawn attention in the run-up to the U.S. presidential election in November, where Biden will likely face a rematch against former President Trump, who has spoke highly of Xi and other authoritarian leaders.

The respective successes of China and the United States create opportunities for each other, Xi said, according to Xinhua. As long as both sides regard the other as partners, respect each other, peacefully coexist and join together for win-win results, China-U.S. relations will improve.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, Chinese President Xi Jinping, center, walks with representatives from American business, strategic and academic communities at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, March 27, 2024. (Huang Jingwen/Xinhua via AP)

BEIJING (AP)  Chinas nationalist leader, Xi Jinping, called for closer trade ties with the U.S. during a meeting on Wednesday with top American business leaders in Beijing that came amid a steady improvement in relations that had sunk to the lowest level in years.

Xi emphasized the mutually beneficial economic ties between the worlds two largest economies, despite heavy U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports and Washingtons accusations of undue Communist Party influence, unfair trade barriers and theft of intellectual property.

Chinas economy has struggled to recover from severe self-imposed restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic that it lifted only at the end of 2022. But Xi said that China was again contributing to world economic growth in the double digits percentage-wise.

Sino-U.S. relations are one of the most important bilateral relations in the world. Whether China and the United States cooperate or confront each other has a bearing on the well-being of the two peoples and the future and destiny of mankind, Xi was cited as saying by China's official Xinhua News Agency.

Participants at the meeting included Stephen A. Schwarzman, the billionaire head of investment firm Blackstone.

Trade and tariffs have increasingly drawn attention in the run-up to the U.S. presidential election, and the Biden administration has shown little sign of moderating punitive measures against Chinese imports imposed by his predecessor and assumed rival in the November polls, Donald Trump.

U.S. officials have renewed concerns over Chinese industrial policy practices and overcapacity, and the resulting impact on U.S. workers and companies, that they blame in part on China's massive trade surplus that amounted to more than $279 billion last year, its lowest level in about a decade.

Following the meeting, the U.S.-China Business Council said in a statement that it was honored to have a dialogue with the country's top leader to discuss our concerns over the decline in trade, investment, and business confidence, as well as our desire to help improve engagement and commercial exchange between our two countries.

We stressed the importance of rebalancing Chinas economy by increasing consumption there and encouraged the government to further address longstanding concerns with cross-border data flows, government procurement, better protection of intellectual property rights, and improved regulatory transparency and predictability," the Washington-based council said. Its president, Craig Allen, was among the guests that met Xi.

China's economy has been bogged down by a crisis in its property market in which builders are struggling under mountains of debt, and buyers are paying off loans on apartments that may never be completed. Other issues, such as an aging population and high youth unemployment, are prompting China's leaders to lean more heavily on boosting export manufacturing to make up for weak demand at home.

At the same time, scores of foreign firms, including Apple, rely on China-based manufacturers as key links in their supply chains, along with the country's 1.3 billion consumers for a high percentage of their global sales.

China's formerly highly abrasive tone toward the U.S. has softened in recent months, particularly since Xi and Biden met in San Francisco in November. Officials such as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken have visited, and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is reportedly due to to travel to China again to meet top leaders next month.

But Xi's administration has maintained a hard line on issues it considers its core interests. Those include its claims to virtually the entire South China Sea, the self-governing island democracy of Taiwan  a close American ally  and its heavy-handed rule of outlying regions such as Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang.

An ardent nationalist and son of one of the founders of the People's Republic, Xi appears determined to maintain strict party control while drawing in foreign investment to shore up the economy.

The respective successes of China and the United States create opportunities for each other," Xi was quoted as saying by Xinhua. As long as both sides regard the other as partners, respect each other, peacefully coexist and join together for win-win results, China-U.S. relations will improve.

___

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Chinese President Xi Jinping met Wednesday in Beijing with U.S. CEOs. According to Chinese state media Xinhua, Xi told the CEOs China's economy can't be separated from international cooperation and U.S.-China relations will improve if there's mutual respect. Photo by Huang Jingwen/Xinhua/EPA-EFE

March 27 (UPI) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping Wednesday met with several U.S. CEOs and academics in Beijing in what appeared to be an effort reassure foreign investors amid global Chinese-U.S. tensions.

According to Chinese state media, Xi told the CEOs that a "healthy and sustainable" Chinese economy can't "be separated from international cooperation."

Roughly one hundred global CEOs, including more than 30 U.S. executives, attended this week's China Development Forum.

Among the U.S. business executives in attendance were FedEx President Rajesh Subramaniam, Blackstone founder Stephen Schwarzman, Qualcomm President and CEO Cristiano Amon and Bloomberg Chair Mark Carney.

"The two countries' respective success is an opportunity for each other. As long as both sides see each other as partners and show mutual respect, coexist in peace and cooperate for win-win results, China-U.S. relations will get better," Xi told representatives of the U.S. business, strategic and academic communities the state-run Xinhua News Agency reported.

A U.S. Chamber of Commerce Report in February found among the top concerns of U.S. businesses in China were the relations between China and the United States, along with China's regulatory environment and business costs.

China has seen a decline in foreign investments in recent months as several factors have shaken investor confidence in the Chinese economy. Those factors include slower growth, regulatory tightening and national security legislation along with U.S.-China tensions over Taiwan and disputes in the South China Sea.

Xinhua reported that Xi told U.S. business leaders China is implementing major steps for "comprehensively deepening reform, and steadily fostering a market-oriented, law-based and world-class business environment" that will create development space for U.S. as well as other foreign businesses.

While acknowledging serious challenges in the U.S.-China relationship, Xi pointed to an understanding he said was reached with U.S. President Joe Biden last year in San Francisco on the need to stabilize and improve bilateral relations.

In a post on X, Biden described the meeting as "some of the most constructive and productive discussions we've had."

In a news conference after their summit Biden said "restarting cooperation" was one of three accomplishments from that meeting.
Concerns have been raised over a Chinese shopping app offering a 50 cash reward in return for new sign-ups whereby customers agree to hand over their personal details for life.

Temu, an online marketplace which sells cheap goods to customers from wholesalers in China, is claiming to give individuals free cash as long as they download the app, register and then send out an invitation code to others.

The offer has gone viral on social media, with thousands of people taking to social media to share Temu codes in the hope of others signing up so they can receive the 50 reward.

However, the terms and conditions of the giveaway state users agree to hand over a large amount of personal information, giving Temu permission to use their photo, name likeness, voice, opinions, statements, biographical information, and/or hometown and state worldwide, in perpetuity without further review, notification, payment or consideration.

The data is processed in accordance with the companys privacy policy, which says information can be shared or sold. However, it adds that users can opt out.

Concerns have been raised among consumer and data protection experts over the levels of sensitive data being collected.

Giving away permission for Temu to use your voice and biographical information will understandably concern its customers, said Lisa Webb, a consumer law expert for Which?.

These offers are going viral on social media, including to young people, but consumers should definitely consider whether they are comfortable giving this sensitive data away in return for cash.

While Temu isnt the first platform to excessively hoover up data, there are definite question marks over whether requesting permission for personal data to be used worldwide is proportionate in any circumstances.

Method of collecting personal data problematic

Jonathan Kirsop, a data protection partner at Pinsent Masons law firm, said the collection of personal data in this way could be problematic on the basis that it seeks to rely on consent which may not be deemed to be freely given in light of the incentives to do so, and could cause them to be subject to an investigation by data protection regulators.

It comes after the US and UK governments exposed a global Chinese hacking plot that targeted White House staff and the State Department as well as British MPs and the Electoral Commission.

Washington and London this week announced sanctions on two individuals and one company linked to APT31, a China state-affiliated group, in response to cyber attacks that endangered national security.

The Henry Jackson Society told The Telegraph the national security risks of potential data transfers to third parties are extremely worrying.

Temus offer terms would seem to confirm the idea that there is no such thing as a free lunch, a spokesperson for the national security think tank said.

British consumers will be giving control of vast swathes of their personal data to a foreign company who might well be intending to monetise that information at the very best, or use it to map opinions and viewpoints or utilise their likeness and voice at the very worst, judging by the terms suggested.

Given that the Chinese state can also enforce legal backdoors into private companies  regardless of the intentions of those companies  the national security risks of potential data transfers are extremely worrying.

A spokesperson for Temu said: The use of giveaways is common to companies across numerous industries, including competitors like Shein, whose current promotions include nearly identical terms and conditions.

Temu gathers user information solely for the purpose of delivering our service and to enhance customer experience. We do not sell user information.

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Five Chinese workers and their local driver were killed in a suicide bomb blast in northwest Pakistan on Tuesday, authorities said, the latest in a string of terror attacks that the South Asian countrys military and government say aims to disrupt Islamabads close ties with Beijing.

Senior police official Muhammad Ali Gandapur said the explosion occurred when the bomber rammed a vehicle into the workers convoy as it traveled from the capital to the Dasu dam, the countrys largest hydropower project, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The blast is the third atrocity in a week to rock Pakistan, a strategic ally of China and a key link in Chinese leader Xi Jinpings ambitious Belt and Road infrastructure initiative, underscoring the mounting security challenges for Chinese projects in the country.

No group claimed responsibility for Tuesdays blast, which comes nearly three years after a bus explosion killed 13 people including nine Chinese workers on their way to the dam in another unclaimed attack on the project.

Pakistan has been grappling with a surge in violence from militant and terrorist groups since the Taliban seized power in neighboring Afghanistan following the withdrawal of American troops in 2021. The Pakistani Taliban denied any involvement in Tuesdays blast.

China strongly condemned Tuesdays attack.

China asks Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the incident as soon as possible, hunt down the perpetrators and bring them to justice, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement Wednesday, urging Pakistan to take effective measures to protect the safety and security of Chinese nationals, institutions and projects.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered condolences for the death of the Chinese nationals during a visit Tuesday to the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad, where he met with Beijings ambassador.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also condemned the heinous act of terrorism, and vowed to bring those responsible to justice.

Todays attack was orchestrated by the enemies of Pakistan-China friendship. We will resolutely act against all such forces and defeat them, he said in a statement.

The blast Tuesday follows two militant attacks in recent days in southwest Pakistan, where China is investing billions in infrastructure projects.

The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the most prominent of several separatist groups in restive southwest Balochistan province, claimed responsibility for the assaults on a Pakistani naval air base and a government complex outside the Chinese-funded strategic port of Gwadar.

In a statement, Pakistans military said the attacks were aimed at destabilizing the countrys internal security and its relationship with China.

Strategic projects and sensitive sites vital for Pakistans economic progress and the well-being of its people are being targeted as a conscious effort to retard our progress and sow discord between Pakistan and its strategic allies and partners, most notably China, the military said in a statement.

Without naming any country, the militarys statement also accused certain foreign elements of aiding and abetting terrorism in Pakistan.

Beijing has invested tens of billions of dollars in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship Belt and Road project launched in 2015 that links Chinas western Xinjiang region to Pakistans Gwadar port on the Arabian Sea with a network of roads, railways, pipelines and power plants.

But Chinese-funded projects have sparked resentment from locals in parts of Pakistan, who say they have benefited little from the developments.

The anti-China sentiment is particularly strong among separatist groups in Balochistan.

In November 2018, the BLA claimed responsibility for an attack on the Chinese consulate in the city of Karachi, which killed four people. Half a year later, a separatist group attacked a luxury hotel in Gwadar, often used by Chinese nationals working at the port. In June 2020, the BLA said it was responsible for another deadly attack on the Pakistan Stock Exchange, where Chinese companies own 40% of the stakes.

In August last year, BLA militants opened fire on a Pakistani military convoy in Gwadar as it was escorting a delegation of Chinese nationals to a construction project. Two militants were killed and no harm was caused to any military personnel or civilians, according to the Pakistani military.

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Credit - Photograph by Erik Carter for TIME

When we introduced the Earth Awards last year, our goal was to highlight individuals whose actions have had an indelible impact on global efforts to address one of the most urgent crises facing our planet: climate change.

In the year since, the stakes have only become clearer2023 was the hottest year the world has ever experienced since records beganand those who have dedicated themselves to this crucial work have doubled down on their dedication. This years group of honorees are being recognized for their influential leadership, whether on the runway or in the rain forest, in shaping a more sustainable future.

Actor and activist Jane Fonda turned her energy towards the climate fight in 2019 with Fire Drill Fridays. Today, she is working to elect climate leaders in all levels of government. Robert D. Bullard is a distinguished professor of urban planning and environmental policy at Texas Southern University (TSU) and the founding director of the Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice at TSU. His tireless work over the past 45 years has, perhaps more than anyone elses, laid the groundwork for todays environmental justice movement. Nemonte Nenquimo, a Waorani leader and co-founder of Amazon Frontlines and Ceibo Alliance, is one of the most passionate voices for the rights of Indigenous communities and their lands. Last year, she successfully campaigned to halt oil drilling in Ecuadors Yasuni National Park. Uruguayan fashion designer Gabriela Hearst produced the first carbon-neutral runway show in 2019 under her own brand, which has been plastic-free since then. As the creative director for Chloe until September 2023, she also helped that brand become the first European luxury fashion house to achieve B Corp status. And from the White House to international climate negotiations, John Kerry, as U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, has shaped countless policies. Now, the veteran politician has left that role to galvanize the private sector in accelerating the clean energy transition.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Chris Prentis: in 1964 he gave the order to ram  the last time such an order was given in the Royal Navy

Commander Chris Prentis, who has died aged 91, fought a short, bloody action during Konfrontasi and served 10 years in the Sultan of Omans navy, largely under sail.

Prentis commanded the minesweeper Fiskerton during Konfrontasi, the Communist-inspired armed campaign that raged between 1963 and 1966, instigated by the Indonesian president Sukarno, who opposed the creation of the modern state of Malaysia from the British imperial Federation of Malaya.

Fiskerton was one of the more than 100 Ton-class minesweepers built in the 1950s  440 tons displacement, with diesel engines, a crew of 33, and a hull of double-layered mahogany planking (to reduce the vessels magnetic signature).

Named after towns and villages ending in -ton, they were unglamorous, utilitarian workhorses of the fleet, and the last of Britains wooden walls. In the Cold War, these little ships, under the flags of a dozen navies, successfully policed the world as survey vessels, fishery protection boats, minehunters and patrol vessels.

Konfrontasi was a small but bloody war of insurrection  jungle warfare and cross-border raids  and in August and September 1964 there were large-scale landings by sea and air on the Malayan peninsula.

Prentis in 1988, wearing the uniform of the Sultan of Oman's navy, aboard Shahab Oman

At dawn on November 16, Prentis was in Fiskerton on patrol in the Straits of Johore, between Singapore and the mainland, when he spotted a suspicious sampan in the half-darkness. When the boat was challenged, hand grenades were thrown and three exploded onboard Fiskerton, but no one was injured.

While sub-lieutenant Peter Blomeley and petty officer George Richardson manned Bren guns on the bridgewings, maintaining a steady and accurate fire, Prentis gave the order to ram  the last time such an order was given in the Royal Navy.

Fiskerton collided with the sampan, and before it sank more hand grenades, a Sten gun, explosives, and one bullet-ridden body, were recovered. Other bodies were swept away.

Later that day at a national solidarity rally, news of the incident, so close to the Malayan mainland, caused Tunku Abdul Rahman, the Malaysian prime minister, to declare: We are at war. Indonesian commandos, soldiers and volunteers raid our territory, invade our land by sea and air, attack our fishermen, and assault our sovereignty. Sukarno is a madman, a dictator and a neo-imperialist, Malaysia is fortunate to have such good friends and allies as Britain, Australia and New Zealand and the support of other friendly countries both in and outside the Commonwealth.

Prentis was awarded the DSC, Blomeley the MBE and Richardson the BEM.

Prentis, right, as Flag Lieutenant to the Admiralty Board, with Admiral of the Fleet Lord Lewin (centre) and Commander GDH Sample (left) in 1981

Christopher David Prentis was born in Windsor on July 7 1932, the son of the vicar of St Andrews, Bethnal Green. The family moved to Brisbane in the SS Jervis Bay in 1934 when his father took the living of Holy Trinity, at Bowen in northern Queensland, but returned home in 1939; they were at sea in SS Strathallan when war was declared.

Young Prentis was educated at St Johns, Leatherhead, before entering the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth, in 1950. He volunteered for the Trade and served as third hand in the submarines Selene and Ambrose (the latter based in Nova Scotia), and as first lieutenant in Trespasser. However, he failed the Perisher, as the make-or-break course for submarine command was known, in 1962.

In 1969, after his command of Fiskerton, Prentis was first lieutenant of the frigate Charybdis building in Belfast. Referred to her people as Cherry B, she deployed to the Far East. There, under Prentis and her CO, Captain Dennis Foster, she was known as a particularly happy and effective ship.

But further promotion eluded Prentis, and after three years on Nato staff in Oslo (1972-74), he was appointed Flag Lieutenant to the Admiralty Board; there, between 1975 and 1979 he served as a master of protocol and ceremony, meeting many senior officers and politicians.

Prentis, right, in 1978 with Minister of the Navy Patrick Duffy, second from left

Having gained sailing experience in the Sea Cadets ship Royalist, in 1978 Prentis was recruited into the Sultan of Omans navy as master of the three-masted schooner Shabab Oman. It had been built in Scotland in 1960 as the Captain Scott, but since then had been very neglected and had little recent sea time under her keel.

Prentiss brief was to bring her into service as a training ship for young Omanis. He showed endless energy and enthusiasm, and within a few weeks she had embarked her first crew and sailed from Muscat for a cruise along the coast, displaying her new suit of sails emblazoned with crossed khanjars in red.

With his patience, warm humour, and enthusiasm for the ship, he soon succeeded, and there followed a steady of stream of requests from different Omani government agencies asking to send recruits onboard for training. Other cruises followed, including a transatlantic voyage to a naval review in New York in 1986 to mark the centenary of the installation of Statue of Liberty.

Shahab Oman rigged as a barquentine

Next, Prentis transferred to the Sultans Royal Yacht Squadron to supervise the building of a new luxury dhow, Zinat al Bihaar. When launched in 1988, at 61m it was the worlds longest dhow.

Prentis retired from the sea in 1992 to live in Oxfordshire. He was known for his joie de vivre, natty dress sense and naughty sense of humour. His interests included sculpture, carpentry, architecture, photography and bookbinding, and he sold his paintings at exhibitions in the Wallingford area; he also illustrated his letters to his children.

In 1959 he married Jacynth Courtier, the daughter and sister of naval officers, whom he met in Canada. She predeceased him, and he is survived by a daughter, the art historian Lydia Goodson, and a son. Another son died in infancy.

Christopher Prentis, born July 7 1932, died February 19 2024

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ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 27. The government of Kazakhstan is ready for productive work with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), said Minister of National Economy Nurlan Baybazarov, Trend reports.

He made the remark during a meeting with EBRD Managing Director for Central Asia Zsuzsanna Hargitai and EBRD Head for Kazakhstan Huseyin Ozhan.

"The government of Kazakhstan is ready to work productively with the EBRD on the implementation of infrastructure projects, as well as in the areas of green energy, transport and logistics, the development of renewable energy sources, and private business," he said.

According to him, currently, close ties have been established between Kazakhstan and the EBRD, covering a wide range of economic issues.

In addition, the parties summed up the results of joint work for 2023 and identified priorities for 2024.

Meanwhile, the EBRD has invested about 9.8 billion euros in 317 projects in Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan is the bank's largest and longest-running Central Asian banking business.
City of Jacksonville Beach, realtors and lodging industry clash over short-term rental bill

The City of Jacksonville Beach is calling on Governor Ron DeSantis to veto legislation that would wipe away its ability to regulate short-term vacation rentals like Airbnb.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

In addition to the concerns raised by municipalities like Jax Beach, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is being pushed by two major Florida industries on opposite sides of the battle over short-term vacation rentals.

The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association is urging the Governor to approve the legislation, which would establish a statewide registry of short-term vacation rentals.

Association Vice President of Government Relations Samantha Padgett explained the bill would also impose uniform regulations on the properties, bringing them closer in line with the rules traditional lodging establishments like hotels have to operate under.

That everybody is licensed, everybody is collecting and remitting taxes, and that fundamentally that the state knows where all of its lodging establishments are operating throughout the state, said Padgett.

But municipalities that already have their short-term rental ordinances, like the City of Jacksonville Beach, argue the bill would strip away local control.

I know people who have moved from Jacksonville Beach because they cant live with a vacation rental next door to them anymore because their quiet enjoyment of their home has been impacted, said Jacksonville Beach Vice Mayor Sandy Golding.

Local governments are already preempted to some degree on vacation rentals and cannot regulate the length of stays permitted, nor can they ban them entirely.

But Golding argued this bill would even further restrict local governments ability to set boundaries and expectations.

Golding explained the bill does allow local governments to establish their registries, collect taxes owed by short-term rentals, and even gives them some authority to level penalties on bad actors.

But she noted other regulations currently in the citys local ordinance dealing with things like trash, parking, and safety would be repealed under the bill.

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Its still going to be very hard for us to hold the bad actors accountable so that they are not having a negative impact on our neighbors and our neighborhoods, said Golding.

The Florida Realtors Association is also pushing for a veto but for very different reasons.

Andy Gonzalez with the Florida Realtors argued the bill fails to strike a balance between the need to reign in bad actors and the individual property rights of short-term rental owners.

This is really going to put a lot of folks, mom and pops, the elderly that use vacation rentals as a secondary income, its really going to hinder their ability to do so moving forward, said Gonzalez.

But Padgett argued the bill would simply be a first step towards solving a difficult and complex issue.

We expect that moving forward there will need be adjustments. There will need to be additions, subtractions, changes, but that we have to start moving in a direction to get our arms around the scope of this industry and to be able to find the balance between all the different competing interests, said Padgett.

The Governor has not yet been presented with the bill.

When he receives it, hell have 15 days to act.

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The Clapham chemical attacker was given a Muslim funeral and burial despite converting to Christianity to claim asylum in the UK.

Abdul Ezedi, an Afghan national, had been at the centre of a manhunt after attacking a 31-year-old mother and her two daughters with a corrosive substance in south London in January.

Immigration files published on Tuesday showed the convicted sex offender had twice been refused asylum by the Home Office. But when he later said he had converted to Christianity and obtained the endorsement of a Baptist priest, he was granted leave to remain.

The dossier showed he had repeatedly failed to answer basic questions about Christianity, lied about his past and was deemed such a sexual threat that a special worshipping agreement was put in place for him to attend a church in Jarrow, South Tyneside.

It is now understood that Ezedis family and friends requested that he should be given a Muslim funeral and burial after his body was found in the Thames last month.

It raises the prospect that those closest to him did not believe he had abandoned his Muslim faith. The Telegraph revealed that he was known in Newcastle, where he lived, to be a devout Muslim who observed Ramadan and only ate Halal food.

Ezedi was given a Muslim burial at a cemetery in east London - BBC/UNPIXS

His funeral was conducted by a mosque in west London, and he was given a Muslim burial at a cemetery in east London on March 11, the BBC has claimed. He is not thought to have been known to the mosque that buried him.

The Muslim funeral director, who did not want to be named, told the broadcaster: As a funeral directors, we dont look into peoples past, we look at how we can help in a situation. Our job was just to provide a dignified burial for the deceased.

The BBC claimed some worshippers at the mosque, many of whom had an Afghan background, said Ezedi had not been a worshipper there.

The mosque, which often conducts funerals for asylum seekers who die alone, asks for donations from regular worshippers to help with costs.

But when it asked for contributions in Ezedis case, some people were said to have been upset. One worshipper, who did not want to be identified, said Ezedi, 35, had attacked innocent people and converted to Christianity.

The worshipper added that it was the responsibility of the church to bury him according to his new belief or religion, not the mosque.

The newly-released immigration papers show his conversion and his baptism at Grange Road Baptist Church in Jarrow had been pivotal in persuading a tribunal judge to let him stay.

However the Home Office opposed the decision, pointing out Ezedi had been unable to explain the reasons for his conversion or demonstrate a clear understanding of Christian principles.

Asked what the Old Testament was about, he replied: Jesus Christ. Asked what God was believed to have created on the third day, he answered: Good Friday and Easter Sunday and Resurrection Day.

Home Office officials told the tribunal they believed Ezedi was prepared to use religion for his own ends in order to secure asylum.

However, Judge OHanlon, an immigration judge, said in 2020 that although Ezedi had lied in other aspects of his claim, that did not automatically mean that his evidence in relation to his claimed conversion could not be believed.

He wrote in his judgment that he found the most compelling evidence had come from Rev Roy Merrin, the then ministry team leader at Grange Road Baptist Church in Jarrow, who said he had known Ezedi for four years and that he attended church regularly.

The priest told the hearing he was aware of people who fraudulently claimed conversion with ulterior motives in relation to asylum, but did not consider the appellant [Ezedi] was such a person.

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Across the country, hundreds of renewable energy projects are set to go up in the next few years. There are logistical, regulatory, and infrastructure bottlenecks getting in the way, but a factory in Charlotte is hoping to help fix the problem.

According to a Berkley Labs study released last year, the U.S. had 2,000 gigawatts of energy capacity stuck in its interconnection backlog, mostly from solar, wind and battery storage projects

To put that in perspective, the current electricity capacity for all existing power plants in the United States is 1,250 GW. Only a quarter of those backlogged projects will likely get built after a roughly three-and-a-half-year wait for developers.

Deputy Secretary of Energy David Turk called it an issue that keeps him up at night.

While speaking at UNCs recent Cleantech Summit, he said his department is working to streamline the application process for interconnection projects and incentivize transmission upgrades, without sacrificing the environmental and community protections that come with new power projects.

HOW IT WORKS: Power Pair program offers thousands in savings for solar and battery installations

We need to live by our values, but we need to streamline, he said. Theres a federal government role, theres a state government role, theres a regulator role, theres a utility role.

Supply issues

Another issue is transformers.

You might be familiar with those green high-voltage boxes in your neighborhood. Their role is to take electricity from the power lines and transform it so it can be used in our homes and businesses.

Every power plant in the country has its own version of this at a much larger scale, using it to transform the power produced by coal, solar, natural gas, etc. into something that can be transported throughout the grid. The problem is the lead time to get this vital piece of equipment has increased four-fold in the past three years.

Siemens Energy is one of the global suppliers of transformers, and according to Richard Voorberg, the companys North American president, the rapid rise in renewable projects, combined with pandemic supply chain disruptions led to a rapid increase in demand for transformers.

You used to bring in these really large central power plants, now youre bringing in a whole lot more smaller power plants, he said. And suddenly weve got a need to supply more transformers than we have capacity for.

A piece of the solution in Charlotte

In February, Siemens Energy announced the company will build a new transformer factory on their Charlotte campus, adding 475 jobs and increasing the domestic supply of these much-needed transformers. Currently, 80 percent of transformers installed in the United States are made overseas.

ALSO READ: What makes people listen to severe weather warnings?

That doesnt speak well for resiliency or security, Voorberg said.

The factory should break ground by fall 2024 and Voorberg expects transformer assembly will start in January 2026. After a few years of ramp up, he expects the factory will produce about 60 transformers a year, while also offering a service and refurbishment service that can help older transformers keep running.

Meanwhile in Raleigh, Siemens Energy is investing in another part of the energy transmission infrastructure. There, researchers will study more efficient ways of transporting electricity across long distances. Thats something intrinsically tied to renewable energy transmission as renewable projects tend to be sited in areas with lots of available land, outside of major population centers.

Voorberg said he doesnt expect this research or the new factory to solve interconnection delays on their own, but he hopes it will be part of the solution.

Weve got to start somewhere, and this is a big step for us to do, he said.

Hows the backlog in the Carolinas?

Relative to the rest of the country, the worst of the Carolinas interconnection delays seemed to have peaked a little earlier in the renewable energy transition.

Duke Energy built up a backlog of solar projects in the 2010s. After working with the utility and stakeholders, the North and South Carolina Public Utility Commissions passed rules to streamline the process.

That process used to take about four years, Duke Energy spokesman Bill Norton said. Weve cut that down to 20 months when additional network upgrades arent needed.

Additionally, North and South Carolina were just awarded $2 million in Department of Energy funding to further improve the state permitting process by creating an online hub for developers, local governments, utilities and landowners to provide information on projects and respond to community concerns.

On the supply side, due to North Carolina law mandating Duke lay out its plan for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 while meeting energy demand, Norton said the utility and NCPUC have established enough lead time on most of their projects to avoid significant backlogs.

MORE: Solar cell manufacturing facility passes procedural hurdle despite neighbors concerns

We have a plan mapped out that will carry us to 2030, in terms of knowing what equipment is required, were already ordering that equipment, so we have it in place in advance, he said.

Even so, Norton said the incoming Siemens Energy factory and an uptick in domestic transformer production should help streamline the process even further.

Having a trusted partner that weve worked with for decades reinvesting in a local facility can only be good for North Carolina, he said.

(WATCH: Unsealed warrant provides closer look at NC power grid attack investigation)
Churches and clergy are under scrutiny once again as it appears that the Clapham chemical attacker had been granted asylum on the basis of a spurious conversion to Christianity.

Let us be clear: churches and clergy are obliged to welcome people, whoever they are and whatever their circumstances, and to assist them in their needs. Asylum seekers often come into contact with churches when they access food banks or seek help with social services or other advice. However, clergy and church members cannot be naive. As Jesus said, be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.

There are, of course, many genuine conversions among asylum seekers. But given the apparent abuse, clergy and other leaders will need to make much more careful inquiries about the immigration status of those who show interest in the Christian faith. And they must be wary if an asylum application has been rejected and is at the stage of appeal, particularly if a change in faith is being made a ground for that appeal.

It is time also to review the internal processes of churches. Is there a programme of sufficient length to prepare people for baptism (in the Catholic Church, for example, it can take many months to reach that stage)? Any attempt to rush the process should be resisted.

What about following-up on conversions, to make sure that the newly-baptised are maturing in their new-found faith? Monitoring of regular attendance at corporate worship, for instance, should be required. What is true of all new members merits special attention in the case of those asylum seekers who are known to have made conversion one of the grounds for appeal against rejection.

Churches and clergy should not, moreover, second guess the Home Office in these matters, for the simple reason that the Government may have information about an asylum seeker that the clergy do not possess. This might include a criminal record. There may have been involvement in extremism of one kind or another.

In the case of Home Office tests of knowledge for new converts regarding the Christian faith, there should be more dialogue between the churches and Government officials to set a realistic level. I am aware that there has been such dialogue between the Coptic Church in Britain and the Home Office regarding converts from the Middle East seeking asylum here. I am sure that this has benefited all parties and should be extended to all those denominations which are involved in ministry of any kind to asylum seekers.

Immigration tribunals are independent, of course. But if they have testimony from clergy about the authenticity of an applicant or an appellants faith, surely they should insist upon interviewing the clergy concerned to assess whether what is said on paper coheres with what is said face to face and with other depositions the tribunal possesses.

In light of Home Office warnings about the Clapham attacker and the tribunals acceptance of the genuineness of his conversion, the procedures of tribunals clearly need to be more robust.

It seems, then, that the churches have to get their own houses in order. The Home Office, for its part, needs to communicate with churches to ensure adequate testing of the knowledge of new converts (which has to be compared to that of cradle Christians).

Churches and clergy have a duty, under God, to welcome everyone and to assist them whenever they can do so. But they also have a duty to the law and to duly constituted authority (when it is not contrary to Gods commandments) in seeking the common good.

In wanting the best for the newly arrived, they cannot neglect the welfare of those already here, nor the flourishing of the services and infrastructure on which such welfare depends.

Michael Nazir-Ali is a former bishop of Rochester and now a prelate in the Catholic Church

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Climate change may have delayed the need for the world's timekeepers to add a "negative leap second" to standard time (ISABEL INFANTES)

Struggle to wrap your head around daylight savings? Spare a thought for the world's timekeepers, who are trying to work out how climate change is affecting Earth's rotation -- and in turn, how we keep track of time.

In a strange twist, global warming could even help out timekeepers by delaying the need for history's first "negative leap second" by three years, a study published on Wednesday suggested.

Experts fear that introducing a negative leap second -- a minute with only 59 seconds -- into standard time could cause havoc on computer systems across the world.

For most of history, time was measured by the rotation of the Earth. However in 1967, the world's timekeepers embraced atomic clocks -- which use the frequency of atoms as their tick-tock -- ushering in a more precise era of timekeeping.

But sailors, who still relied on the Sun and stars for navigation, and others wanted to retain the connection between Earth's rotation and time.

There was a problem. Our planet is an unreliable clock, and had long been rotating slightly slower than atomic time, meaning the two measurements were out of sync.

So a compromise was struck. Whenever the difference between the two measurements approached 0.9 of a second, a "leap second" was added to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), the internationally agreed standard by which the world sets its clocks.

Though most people likely have not noticed, 27 leap seconds have been added to UTC since 1972, the last coming in 2016.

But in recent years a new problem has emerged that few saw coming: Earth's rotation has been speeding up, overtaking atomic time.

This means that to bring the two measurements in sync, timekeepers may have to introduce the first ever negative leap second.

- Our unpredictable planet -

"This has never happened before, and poses a major challenge to making sure that all parts of the global timing infrastructure show the same time," said Duncan Agnew, a researcher at the University of California, San Diego.

"Many computer programs for leap seconds assume they are all positive, so these would have to be rewritten," he told AFP.

Partly using satellite data, Agnew looked at the rate of the Earth's rotation and the effect of its slowing core for the new study published in the journal Nature.

He determined that if not for climate change, a negative leap second might have needed to be added to UTC as soon as 2026.

But starting from 1990, melting ice in Greenland and Antarctica has slowed down the Earth's rotation, the study said. This has delayed the need for a negative leap second until at least 2029, it added.

"When the ice melts, the water spreads out over the whole ocean; this increases the moment of inertia, which slows the Earth down," Agnew said.

If the need for an "unprecedented" negative leap second was delayed, that would be "welcome news indeed," Patrizia Tavella, the head of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures, which is responsible for UTC, commented in Nature.

Demetrios Matsakis, former chief scientist for time services at the US Naval Observatory who was not involved in the research, told AFP that he was sceptical of Agnew's analysis.

He said that "Earth is too unpredictable to be sure" if a negative leap second would be needed any time soon.

- Second nature -

But all agreed that a negative leap second would be a hop into the unknown.

"It would not bring about the downfall of civilisation, and given enough publicity some problems could be avoided," Matsakis said.

"But I would not recommend being in an airplane at that time."

Even positive leap seconds have previously caused problems for systems that require precise timekeeping.

That is partly why the world's timekeepers agreed in 2022 to scrap the leap second by 2035.

From that year, the plan is to allow the difference between atomic time and the Earth's rotation to grow up to a minute.

A subsequent leap minute to bring them into sync is not expected to be needed in the next century.

And "a negative leap minute is very, very unlikely," Agnew said.

He hopes his research will prompt the world's timekeepers to consider dropping the leap second sooner than 2035, a sentiment echoed by Tavella and Matsakis.

dl-juc/bc
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court declined to hear the case of a man accused of a deadly shooting outside a club in McKees Rocks in 2021 and now hes behind bars.

Charles Becher was convicted of third-degree murder for the fatal shooting of Seth McDermit at Club Erotica and had his bond revoked pending sentencing.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Man found guilty in deadly shooting outside Club Erotica

Following the conviction, Judge Anthony Mariani ordered a new trial and reinstated Bechers bond. After an appeal, the Pennsylvania Superior Court reversed Marianis order for a new trial in April of last year. Bechers request for the Supreme Court to hear his appeal was denied Tuesday.

A bench warrant was issued for Becher and detectives with the Allegheny County Sheriffs Office arrested and took him to the Allegheny County Jail.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A focus on teachers and technology is a major part of the five-year strategic plan Charlotte-Mecklenburg school leaders look to pursue.

At Tuesday nights CMS Board of Education meeting, Chief Strategy Officer Beth Thompson presented the blueprint leaders hope will elevate everyone involved in the district, which is approaching the end of its first year under Superintendent Crystal Hill.

When it comes to teachers, its not only about raising the numbers, but expediting the process to hire them. At the beginning of the current school year, the district was part of statewide trend facing a significant shortage at the elementary level.

New affordable housing approved in northeast Charlotte

Education depends on high-quality trained teachers backed by an organization that supports them and what they achieve in the classroom, Thompson said.

In order for CMS to competitively recruit and retain highly qualified and committed workforce, she said the disitrict plans to:

Implement a better onboarding process for teachers using CMS materials making them as effective as possible in shortest amount of time possible.

Determine how to target professional learning strategies for teachers and teacher assistants.

When it comes to teachers pay, Thompson said they want to compensate staff sustainably, while always acting within budget priorities.

In the ever-evolving world of technology, the latest wave is artificial intelligence. Thompson said the district is exploring ways it can leverage AI to serve students and operational improvements. The technology would benefit translation services, help analyze large data sets, support instruction and enhance student learning.

It will soon be time to replace electronic devices too. Thompson said warrantees of devices acquired during the pandemic are approaching expiration, and will need to be replaced.

Costs must be managed, she said.

Academics also are part of the strategic plan. In October, school leaders finalized their goals and guardrails for student achievement, focusing on improving reading and math scores. Theyll also measure post-secondary readiness by calculating the number of students on track to be employed, enrolled, or enlisted by the time they enter 12th grade.

Thompson said in January district leaders held a think tank to discuss the plans progress with a cross section of community member, chosen at random.

The next step in the process is to finalize the priorities and strategies, including their timing and sequencing.

Were working hard right now on timing and details on all of these conversions, Thompson said.

While CMS leaders are looking at big picture strategies for 2024-2029, theyre simultaneously planning for the 2024-25 budget. The district is set to lose $190 million in federal pandemic dollars by the end of the fiscal year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
A Coast Guard petty officer sentenced to six years imprisonment in the death of her five-month-old daughter has had her conviction overturned on appeal due to problems with the charging documents.

At a February 2022 court-martial, Petty Officer 2nd Class Kathleen E. Richard, 25, a yeoman stationed in Kodiak, Alaska, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the April 2020 crib death of her daughter but was acquitted of first-degree murder.

The case was the first murder prosecution tried by the Coast Guard in more than a decade.

Earlier this month, the Coast Guard Court of Criminal Appeals reversed the conviction, finding that the charges had failed to specify what Richard had actually done to cause the babys death.

The court set aside the guilty finding and the charge specification but left open the possibility of a new trial.

An autopsy found the infants cause of death was consistent with asphyxia due to the prone position of the infant in the bedding, and notes the baby was tightly swaddled when she was put down to sleep. But the appellate court found that the language of the charge sheets alleging Richard had murdered the child by asphyxia failed to specify an act or omission, and thus limited Richards ability to defend herself.

As the Governments own experts in this case attested, asphyxia is a broad term that can have a wide variety of causal factors from carbon monoxide poisoning to an infants accidental suffocation in an unsafe sleep environment, to intentional strangulation, Judge Kurt Brubaker wrote for the court. Like death by exsanguination (massive loss of blood), for instance, death by asphyxia describes how a person died, not what, if any, act or omission by another human actor may have brought that about.

Richards legal team, led by civilian defense attorney Billy Little Jr., took the Coast Guard to task for failing to process evidence. He also castigated the service for failing to secure the scene of the babys death.

The lack of specificity in the prosecutions case left Richard and her attorneys at a disadvantage, Brubaker wrote, thus being " forced to prepare for trial without knowing what specifically the Government alleged she did or failed to do.

Richards attorneys presented evidence that might rebut intentional murder allegations but support a theory of negligence, the ruling states.

Both parties presented evidence supporting a range of other possible acts or omissions that the members could conclude negligently caused [the infants] death, including placing her in the crib face down with a pacifier in her mouth, having other bedding in the crib, leaving a bib on her, swaddling her tightly, applying pressure to her, or any combination thereof, Brubaker wrote.

Ultimately, the judge wrote, he could not rule out the possibility that more specific charges might have led to an acquittal for Richard.

Little, who was vocally critical of the Coast Guards handling of the case from the outset, told Military Times that he believes Richard, who has now served two years of her sentence at Naval Consolidated Brig Miramar, California, was harmed by a military legal system ill-prepared to prosecute complex legal cases.

A new law passed in December removes prosecution decision authority from military commanders for crimes including sexual assault, child abuse, murder and manslaughter, but allows military attorneys to continue to try these cases.

Little said hed like to see the military get out of the business of trying non-combat related murder trials altogether.

Richard may still be charged and tried again per the courts ruling. But, Little said, the prosecutions initial case, focused on a theory of first-degree murder  a theory rejected by the eight-member military jury  will hinder efforts to advance another narrative.

If they go in there and charge involuntary manslaughter by some act or omission, and have another trial, the witnesses Im going to call are going to be all the government witnesses from the first trial, he said. They built the box themselves. And thank God they did, because finally a just result came about.

Richard, who was reduced to E-1 as part of her sentence, remains in the brig, Little said, pending an expected Coast Guard order to release her. The service has 60 days from the March 5 appellate decision to certify the case to a higher appeals court or accept it. The invalidated conviction means her rank will be reinstated and shell receive back pay for her time in confinement.
(Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Crime rates in Colorado have been on a sustained decline for nearly two years now. If that surprises you, youre hardly alone, and its worth thinking about why.

Connecting the news in Colorado to the big picture.

Though no measure of crime is perfect, the number of violent and property crimes reported in Colorado declined by roughly 10% in 2023, according to a database maintained by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. Once the data reflects official figures for state population growth last year, the drop in crime rates will be even more pronounced.

Its the first time Colorado has recorded a decline in crime in a calendar year since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, but monthly data shows the downward trend began earlier than last year. Accounting for seasonal patterns in crime rates, Colorado has experienced year-over-year decreases in monthly reported crimes since the summer of 2022, according to CBI data.

The decline is consistent with trends nationwide. Crime rates surged beginning in mid-2020, when the pandemic upended life around the globe and U.S. cities saw civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police. Over the last two years, this surge has subsided. Data released by the FBI last week showed crime declined across nearly every category in 2023, and the 12% drop in homicides nationwide last year was the largest such decline on record.

Both in Colorado and nationally, the COVID-era crime surge followed what in many cases were record-low crime rates in the 2010s. But even at their recent peak in 2021 and 2022, rates of homicides and other violent crimes were substantially lower than the levels recorded in the 1980s and 1990s, when a wave of drug- and gang-related violence reached crisis levels in Denver and many other U.S. cities.

Despite increasingly solid data confirming this downward trend, however, there are few signs that Colorados falling crime rates have sunk in with politicians and the media. Last weeks quarterly FBI crime report, which confirmed the 2023 drop, hasnt been covered by any local news outlets, many of which have covered such releases when they showed increases in crime rates in recent years.

For decades, research has shown links between media coverage of crime and distorted perceptions of crime trends and risks. In annual surveys conducted between 2001 and 2019, a majority of Americans consistently told Gallup pollsters they believed national crime rates had risen over the previous year, even as data showed those rates plummeting. Consumption of local TV news, especially, is associated with significantly elevated perceptions of risk and fear of crime, studies have found.

Colorado Republicans havent eased up in the slightest in their rhetoric about the need to turn the tide of Colorados crime tsunami, as George Brauchler, a former district attorney in the 18th Judicial District who is running for the same post in the newly created 23rd Judicial District in Douglas County, puts it on his campaign website. But even prominent Democrats like Gov. Jared Polis, who might be expected to trumpet a decline in crime rates that has occurred on their watch, have remained relatively muted on the subject, though Polis did briefly mention the encouraging early data in his State of the State address in January.

In part, this may be because the rise and fall in crime rates nationwide since 2020 points to a truth rarely acknowledged in debates over criminal justice policy: crime trends have relatively little to do with the issues most often discussed at the statehouse or in political media.

As the crime surge peaked in recent years, these debates were dominated by a conservative backlash to criminal justice reforms like drug decriminalization and curbing cash bail. In Colorado Republicans telling, these efforts, many of which attracted bipartisan support in the 2010s, amounted to coddling criminals with measures that water down accountability, in the words of one recent editorial from the conservative Denver Gazette, which was launched by Colorado Republican billionaire Phil Anschutz in 2020. Polis and other moderate Democrats, too, endorsed this view in some cases, joining Republicans to reverse a handful of reforms and stiffen penalties for drug possession and auto theft.

But an exhaustive body of criminological research has shown there's no evidence that harsher punishments are effective in reducing crime rates, which are far more dependent on a wide variety of long-term social and economic factors, like poverty, population density and even environmental risks. In the shorter term, there's more evidence linking increased crime rates in the pandemic era to reductions in police presence  a trend driven not by state or local policymaking but by large numbers of officers quitting and, in some cities, what many have characterized as intentional work slowdowns by local police departments.

You don't need advanced criminology degrees to understand this; it's obvious from even a cursory glance at the last few years of U.S. crime data. In the years following the onset of the pandemic, crime rose everywhere  in blue states that had decriminalized drugs and in red states that hadn't, in big cities with reform-minded mayors and DAs and in rural areas governed by their tough-on-crime counterparts. Over the last two years, despite a wide spectrum of policy responses to the surge, crime rates have similarly declined across the board.

Within Colorado, the data largely paints the same picture, despite efforts by conservative commentators to draw sharp distinctions between Democratic policies and the actions of some of the state's Republican-run cities.

A recent Gazette editorial praised cities like Aurora, where a conservative council majority has stiffened some criminal penalties, for tackling crime "absent any help from the Legislature" or "more lenient jurisdictions, like Denver next door." But the data hardly shows a wide gap in recent crime trends between Aurora and its neighbors, much less a strong correlation between the partisan bent of local government and its crime rate. In fact, one of the only large Colorado cities to defy the statewide trend in 2023 and record a significant increase in crime was the traditional GOP stronghold of Colorado Springs, where violent crime rates rose by 7.2%.

The Trendline series offers analysis on public policy in Colorado. Articles explore ways to think about the news based on research, history and other important context, helping Coloradans connect the headlines to the big picture.

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The post Colorado crime rates are falling. Why isnt that bigger news? appeared first on Colorado Newsline.
A Columbus man has received a five-year federal prison sentence for threats made to a county judge and law enforcement as well as bomb threats to two area schools and businesses in 2021.

Yousif Mubarak, 28, a resident of the city's Southeast Side near Canal Winchester, was convicted in a federal jury trial in August of seven counts of making interstate threats.

U.S. District Judge Edmund A. Sargus Jr. sentenced Mubarak on Wednesday in federal court in Columbus to five years in prison.

Threats are more than mere words; they have significant consequences, as illustrated by the sentence imposed today, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio Kenneth L. Parker said in a news release.

According to court records, Mubarak made nearly 90 threatening phone calls in September 2021 from the state of Washington, where he lived briefly, to a Franklin County Municipal Court judge who had presided over his traffic court case.

On Sept. 12 and 13, 2021, Mubarak wasted hours of law enforcement time, forced the early closure of businesses and schools and scared people, including students, federal prosecuting attorneys said in court records.

Mubarak called several Canal Winchester area businesses on Sept. 12 and threatened to blow them up, causing evacuations and early closures at Brew Dog and Home Depot.

He also called the Fairfield County Sheriff's Office more than 100 times in about 12 hours across Sept. 12 and Sept. 13.

Around 10 p.m. on Sept. 12, 2021, officers went to Mubarak's home, where he taunted them while speaking through his Ring doorbell camera.

About 20 minutes later, Mubarak called a Fairfield County 911 dispatcher and said "you can die," and that "she would get two bullets in the head."

At 7 a.m. on Sept. 13, 2021, Mubarak called in bomb threats to Canal Winchester Middle School and Pickerington North High School.

An attorney who represented Mubarak in court declined to comment when contacted by The Dispatch.

jlaird@dispatch.com

@LairdWrites

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio man sentenced to 5 years for threats to judge, schools, others
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, March 27. Kyrgyzstan and Russian Gazprombank discussed providing financing for infrastructure projects in the country across various sectors, Trend reports.

According to the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, the discussions took place during a meeting between the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Akylbek Japarov, and a delegation from Gazprombank, led by the Deputy Chairman of the Board, Alexei Matveev.

The parties discussed financing projects in the energy sector, road construction, state procurement, banking services, leasing, and public-private partnerships.

Japarov noted that the meeting would provide an additional impetus for further effective cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Gazprombank and expressed readiness to implement other instruments in all areas of mutual interest.

In turn, Alexei Matveev briefed on the progress of joint projects, paying particular attention to cases in banking services and leasing.

Meanwhile, in June 2023, the Russian-Kyrgyz Development Fund and Gazprombank signed a memorandum on expanding cooperation and using banking technology to support contracts while implementing investment projects in Kyrgyzstan.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (COLUMBUS BUSINESS FIRST)  A few years back, Isaac Gold and his father Ken Gold made the five-hour drive from Columbus to Altoona, Pennsylvania, the home of Sheetz. It was raining  hard.

I remember looking at my dad, who was driving at the time, and he was holding that steering wheel tight, said Isaac Gold, vice president of real estate for development firm Skilken Gold. And I was thinking to myself, I hope this is worth it.'

To state the obvious: It was. Both family-owned businesses have benefited from the bond.

In December 2019, Sheetz signed a development agreement with Skilken Gold. The Columbus firm has helped the Pennsylvania brand open about 50 locations in Columbus, Dayton, Toledo and the greater Detroit area, with more to come.

For more on this story, go to ColumbusBusinessFirst.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
Sen. Bernie Sanders with Jimmy Fallon on "The Tonight Show." The senator's appearance made a fan of Victoria Thompson and turned her against establishment Democrats like Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden. (NBC via Getty Images)

By now Victoria Thompson has heard it many times. She's crazy. She's throwing her vote away.

Worse, those who loathe Donald Trump say she's helping the unscrupulous ex-president reclaim the White House  even though she's never voted for him and never will  by refusing to back Joe Biden's reelection.

Thompson is unabashed.

"I have no responsibility to vote for the Democratic [nominee]," said the 63-year-old retiree, a Democrat for most of her life. "Their responsibility is to the citizens. They should put forward a candidate that we want to vote for."

People like Thompson, who can't stomach Trump or Biden, are known as "double-haters." This election they're all the rage. They very likely will decide the presidential contest, with most coming around by November to support one of the two major party nominees  even if it means holding their nose.

But millions like Thompson won't cast a ballot for Trump or Biden under any circumstances. Her choice is Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whom she considers the most electable of the alternatives, giving him a 30% chance of winning the White House.

"He's got the name recognition ... and because people are so unhappy with the choices, there's a shot," Thompson said over lunch this week in Roseville, the Sacramento suburb where she spent three decades working as a mail carrier.

Actually, most election handicappers give Kennedy closer to a 100% chance of losing, but no matter. Thompson will support the political scion even if it means helping Trump beat Biden.

With a throaty laugh, she describes the unruly Republican's four years in office as "a s show."

But she doesn't see the aged Biden doing any better. "I think he's just as corrupt as Trump," Thompson said. "I think he's just as self-serving."

Read more: RFK Jr. names California tech lawyer Nicole Shanahan as his vice presidential choice

Things changed politically for Thompson one night in December 2015 when she was in bed watching "The Tonight Show."

Jimmy Fallon's guest was independent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, who was waging a long-shot bid to snatch the Democratic nomination from Hillary Clinton, the favorite of the party establishment.

Thompson had supported Democrats for president her entire life, save a 1992 vote for independent Ross Perot. She was largely fine with the results. "My 401(k) was going nuts" while Clinton's husband, Bill, was in office, Thompson said with another deep laugh, "so I was happy."

But disillusionment began setting in under President Obama, who promised all sorts of hope and change, including creation of a universal healthcare system that would cover every American. "And then," Thompson said, "he didn't give us any of it."

Watching Sanders on late-night TV, Thompson felt something stir inside. He spoke of income inequality and a "corrupt campaign-finance system" and the way it favored special interests and the exceedingly well-off at the expense of average workers.

Thompson said she never heard anything like that from Hillary Clinton.

She became a volunteer for Sanders' campaign and put in long hours manning phone banks throughout the Sacramento area. She won election as a California delegate to the Democratic National Convention, arriving in Philadelphia with a brightly festooned banner she created. "President Bernie Sanders," it boldly declared amid the flowers and vines.

She hoisted the banner in defiance when Clinton supporters, including Reps. Nancy Pelosi and Barbara Lee, showed up at a rowdy delegation breakfast. She shouted along with those who jeered Pelosi and others with cries of "Election fraud!"

Thompson's political views are a stew of far-left convictions and conspiratorial beliefs, which she explained at a pizza joint in Old Town Roseville.

She's certain that Sanders would have beaten Clinton in California's 2016 primary, if corrupt party officials hadn't interceded. In fact, Thompson is convinced the entire nominating fight was rigged in Clinton's favor and Sanders only yielded because he and his wife, Jane, were threatened.

(When Trump echoed claims the election was stacked in Clinton's favor and called for an investigation, Sanders told him to back off.)

The senator delivered a conciliatory speech the night Clinton was nominated and appeared before the California delegation, urging Democrats to rally behind her. But Thompson was unmoved.

"The way they cheated ... there was no way" she was "just going to roll over" and vote for Clinton, Thompson said. Instead, she cast her ballot for the Green Party candidate, Jill Stein.

Biden's nomination in 2020 was the result of further Democratic chicanery, Thompson insists. Among other claims, she said the party "ran as many people as they could"  more than two dozen presidential hopefuls  "to diffuse the vote" and once more deny Sanders the nomination.

(That, however, greatly overstates the power of the party and vastly understates the tug of individual ambitions.)

Thompson again voted for the Green Party nominee in 2020, though she no longer remembers his name. It was Howie Hawkins.

Read more: Column: No graveyards, no ice cream shops. Some experienced advice on how Biden should handle the age issue

Thompson's assertions may be far-fetched, but she speaks for many when she laments the choice facing the country in November.

"I'm shocked that Trump can even run at this point," she said of the all-but-certain GOP nominee, a view that many Democrats share. "I mean, he has all these legal problems ... so how's it even possible? It shows how broken the system is."

As for Biden, she's convinced  like many Republicans  that he is well past his sell-by date and lacks the mental capacity to be president.

On top of that, she said, tapping a turquoise-colored fingernail for emphasis, "Grocery prices are higher than they've ever been. Gas is high. People are barely making it month to month."

Some may think Thompson is nutty for believing the things she does. Or say she's foolish to vote for Kennedy or any other candidate with no chance to win, rather than settling for the least-bad alternative and trying to stave off something worse.

But none of that bothers her.

At least, Thompson allowed, when she puts her head on her pillow at night she'll sleep with a clear conscience.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Representative James Comer has found a new scapegoat for his impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden going up in flames: Its all the deep states fault.

Comer made the wild claim during a Monday appearance on the Fox News radio show Fox Across America With Jimmy Failla. The House Oversight Committee chair insisted that Attorney General Merrick Garland was conspiring with the deep state to sabotage the impeachment investigation.

Garlands working with the deep state, whos working with the liberal mainstream media to try to indoctrinate into peoples minds that theres no evidence, Comer said.

Comer then insisted that multiple members of the Biden family had received payments from foreign businesses. This all revolves around Joe because not only have we proven Joe got $250,000, a quarter of $1 million of that money, but Joe met with all the people that were wiring the Bidens money, Comer said.

The $250,000 that Comer mentioned has already been proven to be from Bidens brother Jim, who was repaying the president for a loan in 2018. As for Biden meeting with foreign businesspeople, there is no evidence that he ever had more than a passing encounter with any of them.

Despite what Comer says, the deep state doesnt need to convince people that theres no evidence of Bidens wrongdoing. There simply is no evidence of Bidens wrongdoing. Almost all of the Republicans supposed star witnesses have said that Biden was not involved in his son Hunters business dealings.

During a disastrous Oversight Committee hearing last week, Hunters onetime business partner Tony Bobulinski insisted that the president was guilty of corruption but could provide no examples of times he had actually witnessed such crimes. Meanwhile, former Rudy Giuliani associate Lev Parnas said that the impeachment effort was based on Russian disinformation.

Parnass accusation is backed up by the arrest of former FBI informant Alexander Smirnov. Smirnov alleged that Biden and his son accepted bribes from a Ukrainian oligarch, sparking the impeachment investigation. When the Justice Department charged Smirnov with providing false information to the FBI, he admitted that his story had been fed to him by a Russian intelligence operative.

Slowly, Republican lawmakers have begun to back away from the impeachment inquiry, grudgingly admitting that there is no proof to their claims. Comer himself changed his tune earlier this week, saying he intends to make nonbinding criminal referrals against Biden to the Justice Department.
Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Bob Anthony is renewing his call for a full-scale audit of the $3 billion in bonds issued after Winter Storm Uri.

In a statement released Monday to the media, Anthony echoed his call for a full-on audit of fuel and bond costs for the storm. He said he was told by both the state treasurer's office and the Oklahoma Development Finance Authority that neither agency has an audit from the storm.

"I recently did just that on behalf of the customers of OG&E, ONG, PSO and Summit," Anthony wrote. "I asked the ODFA, the State Treasurers Office and the Corporation Commission to provide me with copies of any audits related to the 2021 Winter Storm fuel costs and/or bonds. I was informed the Oklahoma Development Finance Authority does not have any copies of any audit related to the 2021 Winter Storm bonds and the State Treasurer similarly reported to me that his office does not have any audits related to the securitization transactions.

Anthony said the bonds' authorizing statute specified audits of all costs requested for recovery, and of amounts actually collected from customers. He said the law requires that an audit  shall be part of any general rate case filed by a regulated utility  with outstanding ratepayer-backed bonds.

Commissioner Bob Anthony called one-page audit 'another attempt at whitewash and cover-up'

In 2022, the Oklahoma Development Finance Authority issued roughly $3 billion of Winter Storm Uri ratepayer-backed bonds on behalf of Oklahoma Gas and Electric Co., Oklahoma Natural Gas, Public Service Co. of Oklahoma and Summit. On Sept.15, 2023, Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett released a one-page audit of more than $1.3 billion of ONGs February 2021 Winter Storm ratepayer-backed bond financing to the governor, legislative leaders and the finance authority.

Anthony said the one-page audit of ONG was ludicrous, pitiful, farcically inadequate and another attempt at whitewash and cover-up. He said the audit "did not remotely meet the criteria for an audit as defined by state statute.

Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Bob Anthony talks to the media in 2012 at the state Capitol.

"Apparently even the ODFA doesnt consider that one-pager an actual audit, since six months later when I asked the agency if it had copies of any Winter Storm audits, it said no," Anthony wrote. He said he was concerned that the rest of the commission, wasn't pushing for a full audit.

"(Commissioner Todd) Hiett then told OETAs Oklahoma News Report, 'I certainly would welcome an audit to assure that the Corporation Commission has done everything correctly.' Talk is cheap," Anthony said. "The multi-billion-dollar debt burden under which Oklahoma ratepayers are suffering is not. Six months later, I am still waiting to cast a vote for Commissioner Hietts suggested independent audit of the 2021 Winter Storm costs and bonds  but I am not holding my breath. So the public charade about audits continues, including more one-pagers for the other utilities posted on the OCC website."

More: Did an Oklahoma agency 'fleece' ratepayers after the 2021 winter storm? What a new subpoena aims to find out

Hiett said Tuesday he encouraged Anthony to post a request for an audit and the commission would discuss it in an open meeting.

"We have a legal process at the Commission, and I have always encouraged any Commissioner to post matters of concern to an agenda for consideration by the full panel. Of course, the same holds true for Commissioner Anthony," Hiett said in an email to The Oklahoman.

Oklahoma's Public Utility Division unable to find firm for additional audits, commissioner says

Commission spokesman, Trey Davis, said the state auditor, the state securities commission and private sector accounting firms have been approached about conducting additional audits not required by law, and the Public Utility Division has had zero success in securing a firm.

"One private sector firm willing to discuss the request has stated its minimum cost to even begin an audit is approaching $500,000," Davis said in an email to The Oklahoman. "PUDs request for these audits is being supported by the Director of Administration due to the ongoing attacks of division personnel whose character and professional livelihoods have been maligned for their work on these cases."

Davis said the one-page summary "was approved by the Commission for submission to the Governor, the Pro Tempore of the Senate, the Speaker of the House and the ODFA."

He said Anthony would receive information that "will include workpapers that summarize the intensive onsite work conducted in relation to the testimony submitted in various cases before the Commission and referenced by Commissioner Anthony in yesterdays filing."

Opinion: Commissioner: 2021 winter storm costs are the worst financial abuse of Oklahoma ratepayers

Davis said the language in the section of law that was cited by Anthony "does not contemplate and has never contemplated an audit to be conducted in accordance with government auditing standards as required by the State Auditor."

"The OCC Public Utility Divisions audits are a laborious, voluminous, pain-staking and exacting inspection of a utility companys financial records as it relates to the type of audit being conducted. These 'audits' are financial in nature in that we review often tens of thousands of records to validate the companys position regarding the eight items noted above," Davis' email said. "Same word, somewhat different meaning and Commissioner Anthony knows this all too well. Only Commissioner Anthony claimed the one-page summary was the totality of the audit. Given his more than three decades at the Commission and vast experience in these matters, he surely knew he was mischaracterizing the report."

Aaron Cooper, a spokesman for OG&E, said its operations and costs from Winter Storm Uri have been scrutinized and found to be reasonable and prudent by the Corporation Commission.

"We support efforts by the Oklahoma Attorney General to investigate and claw back any costs charged to OG&E and our customers by any natural gas marketers who the attorney general finds exploited the situation," Cooper said in an emailed statement. "OG&E will continue to cooperate with the Corporation Commissions ongoing statutory requirement to review all amounts received from customers and amounts paid to bondholders during its general rate reviews. We are proud we preserved customer health and safety by keeping the heat and lights on during this once-in-a-generation winter storm."

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Commissioner Bob Anthony wants thorough audit of Winter Storm Uri costs
Parents of students at the University of California Berkeley have reportedly hired private security for their children, prompting consternation from school officials.

According to a report in the Los Angeles Times, the program SafeBears acted as unarmed security for the students for a 17-day period, though the ambassadors on foot and on bicycles did not coordinate with campus police.

SafeBears, which ended on Saturday, paid six guards a total of about $42,000 to patrol at night near student housing and south of campus in response to increases in some types of crimes, including property crimes, the Times reported.

SafeBears founder Sagar Jethani and other concerned parents hope their efforts will lead the school to start its own ambassador program.

Were rather hoping the school will eliminate the need for us to continue doing this by just putting its own program in place as they ought to have by now, Jethani told the Times.

But in a statement to the Times, school officials indicated theyd prefer more police officers, not security ambassadors.

Parents who want to donate funds toward additional campus security can do so via a university fund that has been established, the statement said. We do not believe that private security should take precedence over hiring sworn officers.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
GRUNDY, Va. (WJHL)  Ninth District Congressman Morgan Griffith attended the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authoritys (VCEDA) quarterly economic developers meeting on Tuesday.

A VCEDA release said Griffith spoke briefly about federal funding programs like the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) program.

Economic development is not Republican or Democrat, he said. Its about getting jobs for people.

Griffith also said he was pleased to be at the meeting and reminded local developers his office door is always open to them.

Local Jersey Mikes to donate 100% of sales to charity on Wednesday

Virginia Delegate Israel OQuinn and his legislative aide Thatcher Stanley; Josh Hess, legislative aide to Griffith; and Shane Clem, Sen. Mark Warners legislative aide, were also in attendance, according to the release.

OQuinn mentioned reducing Business Ready Site program readiness parameters from 100 acres to 50 acres, the release said. He then talked about the value of teamwork.

Economic development is a full-contact sport, but its also a team sport, he said. We all pitch in together to support projects, even those outside of our legislative districts.

Shane Clem added that Warner will be in the district soon, and he said he was pleased to see the momentum the Coalfields Expressway Authority had started on moving the expressway project along, according to the release.

Local economic developers from VCEDA provided updates on their areas ongoing economic development projects. The release said VCEDA Executive Director/General Counsel Jonathan Belcher also gave updates.

According to the release, Belcher noted the VCEDA Seed Capital Matching Grant program spring rounds deadline is approaching and is set for April 19. He also stated that work is beginning on the FY 2025 business development plan for VCEDA.

Jessi Fritz with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership provided updates, and Randy Rose introduced his new role as the Associate Vice Chancellor for Community & Economic Development at the University of Virginias College at Wise.

Griffith, Clem and VCEDA attended two AMLER announcement events on the Breaks Interstate Park swimming pool project and the U.S. 460 corridor cellular wireless project later in the afternoon, the release said.

The meeting was held at Grundys Southern Gap Transportation and Logistics Center. The current marketing calendar was also discussed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
Authorities are ending a search-and-rescue mission for six contractors who they believe were plunged into the icy cold waters of the Patapsco River early Tuesday morning when a container ship lost power and slammed into a pillar supporting Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Based on the length of time that we have gone in this search, the extensive search efforts that we have put into it, the water temperature, at this point we do not believe that were going to find any of these individuals still alive, Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said at a press conference Tuesday evening.

He added that the decision was simply an administrative one meant to allow the agency more freedom in tackling the unique challenges presented by cold weather, a rapidly approaching storm, and debris-laden waters with structures that could collapse at any moment.

The coast guard is not going away. None of our partners is going away, Gilreath added. But were just going to transition to a different phase.

The six contract workers caught on the bridge when it collapsed were fixing potholes on the spanwhich is used by more than 31,000 vehicles a day. Two others were rescued from the water soon after the shocking incident occurred, including one who was hospitalized with serious injuries but was released soon after, according to Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace.

Baltimore Ship Lost Power and Sent Mayday Call Just Before Bridge Disaster

There are also a number of vehicles strewn throughout the river that need to be searchedincluding a tractor-trailerand while authorities do not believe that they contained any other people beside the six construction workers, Maryland State Police Superintendent Roland Butler admitted that they werent ruling out the discovery of more bodies.

I think we all would have to understand, yes, thats a distinct possibility. As unfortunate as it may be, thats a distinct possibility. However we dont have any information to support that at this point, he said at Tuesdays press conference.

A report in the Baltimore Banner suggested that the construction workers now presumed deademployees of a company called Brawner Builderswere all men in their 30s and 40s from south and central America, who came to the United States in search of a better life.

Jesus Campos, an employee of Brawner Builders, told the Baltimore Banner that the missing workers were men in their 30s and 40s from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico. He said they each came to Maryland in search of a better life for their spouses and children.

They are all hard-working, humble men, Jesus Campos, another employee at the firm, added.

Pilots of the cargo ship, named Dali, reported a mayday call immediately after losing power, allowing local authorities to largely clear the bridge from through-traffic before it collapsed. The call is widely credited with saving what would likely have been hundreds of lives.

A recording captured by Broadcastify of the ships final transmissions captured the chaotic seconds before impact.

I need one of you guys on the south side, one of you guys on the north side, hold all traffic on the Key Bridge, an unnamed person says on the recording. Theres a ship approaching that just lost their steering, so until we get that under control, weve got to stop all traffic.

Clay Diamond, the head of the American Pilots Association, a trade organization for ship pilots, told the Associated Press the ships captain also ordered the crew to slam the rudder hard toward the ships port side and dropped its port anchor in a desperate bid to slow the vessel.

He Built the Baltimore BridgeThen Mourned Its Collapse

Less than two minutes later, the bridge had fallen.

The whole bridge just fell down, someone on the recording exclaims. Start, start whoever  everybody. The whole bridge just collapsed.

Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said immediately following the collision that there was absolutely no indication the incident was anything other than a tragic accident.

President Joe Biden addressed the collapse Tuesday afternoon, fondly remembering his own trips across the span as he traveled between his native Delaware and Washington, D.C., and telling reporters that he intended to secure federal funding to pay for the entire repair effort.

Its my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge, he said from the White House. I expect the Congress to support my effortthis is going to take some time.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Maynor Suazo, from Honduras (L) and Miguel Luna, from El Salvador, were members of a construction crew on the Francis Scott Key Bridge

Two of the six people who went missing when a bridge collapsed in Baltimore have been named.

Miguel Luna, from El Salvador, and Maynor Suazo, from Honduras, were members of a construction crew on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when a container ship crashed into it.

Neither man has been seen since the incident.

A relative of Mr Luna told Sky News that he was distraught, adding that some members of his family had been taken by police to a location in Baltimore where they could be with the other families of the missing.

Mr Suazo, 38, moved to the US from the eastern region of Honduras in 2006 and has an 18-year-old son and a five-year-old daughter.

Maynor Suazo moved to the US from the eastern region of Honduras in 2006

His brother Martin Suazo told CNN that the family were hoping that his body could be recovered so they could give him a proper goodbye. We want to see him, find him, know whether he is dead because we dont know anything, he said.

Guatemalas consulate in Maryland said in a statement that two of the missing were citizens of the Central American nation. It did not provide their names but said consular officials were in contact with authorities and assisting the families.

All six are believed to be construction workers  employed by Brawner Builders  who were fixing potholes on the bridge.

Brawner Builders employee Jesus Campos told The Baltimore Banner that they are men in their 30s and 40s - from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico - who have children and spouses.

A relative of Mr Luna told Sky News members of his family had been taken by police to a location in Baltimore

They are all hard-working, humble men, said Mr Campos.

He added: My supervisor called me in the morning and told me they had rescued one of my colleagues but he was in a coma.

I never imagined something this awful could happen. The path where the boat goes was supposed to be a safe zone.

The Baltimore Fire Service has confirmed that two people were rescued from the water on Tuesday, one unharmed and another in a serious condition.

Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, told The Baltimore Banner that he does not believe the workers could have survived the incident.

Were presuming that they are not alive because they were thrown into the bay in an area thats 50ft deep, with 46-degree (7C) temperature, probably buried under tons of steel, Mr Pritzker said.

The company is in mourning and its a terrible, unanticipated tragedy.

Coastguard Rear Admiral Shannon N Gilreath said on Tuesday night that the missing people were presumed dead.

We do not believe that were going to find any of these individuals still alive, he said, noting the water temperature and the amount of time that had passed since the bridge collapsed at 130am.

08:29 AM GMT

What happened yesterday?

Six people are missing presumed dead after a Singapore-flagged cargo ship destroyed the bridge

The search for survivors was suspended on Tuesday at about 7.30pm local time (11.30pm UK)

Joe Biden pledged to move heaven and earth to rebuild Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge

Mayday alert as ship drifted towards Baltimore bridge saved many lives

Dali container ship that brought down Baltimore bridge involved in previous crash

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 worlds largest AIDS charity has emerged as the leading bidder to take over a portfolio of homeless housing developments in Skid Row, a move thats drawn the opposition of state housing officials whove called attention to the charity's troubled tenure as a landlord .

The Hollywood-based AIDS Healthcare Foundation is looking to acquire properties, mostly old single-room occupancy hotels, owned by the Skid Row Housing Trust. The trust collapsed financially a year ago and is in receivership .

Seventeen trust buildings, totaling 1,200 units, are up for sale or are expected to be shortly. The foundation has proposed paying $53 million for the first dozen of the buildings made available, which is the highest offer received, according to a person with knowledge of the bidding process who wasn't authorized to discuss it.

A spokesperson for Mayor Karen Bass said that the foundation is only organization that has put together "a financially feasible offer" for the trust portfolio, but that other factors also should be considered in the deal. The foundation declined to comment.

State officials are expressing concerns about the foundations track record operating homeless housing, citing problems detailed in a Times investigation last fall .

The foundation "would not be a suitable owner and operator considering widely known and well documented shortcomings in the Foundations ability to provide safe and well-maintained buildings," Jennifer Seeger, a deputy director with the Department of Housing and Community Development, wrote in a March 20 letter to the receiver.

The foundation, which makes more than $2 billion in annual revenue largely from its network of pharmacies, became a landlord in 2017, contending that it could provide homeless housing faster and cheaper than public agencies and other nonprofits. It now owns 16 buildings with about 1,500 units in and around Skid Row.

The Times found that foundation buildings have had heating, plumbing and electricity failures, vermin infestations and, in some cases, a surge in tenant complaints and crime after the foundation took them over.

Read more: The Times investigations into Skid Row's troubled housing providers

Seegers letter references The Times stories and other news reports by nonprofit website Knock LA .

In previous comments, the foundation has said it has spent tens of millions of dollars renovating and repairing its buildings, increasing occupancy so that nearly 1,000 people are off the streets that otherwise wouldn't have been. It has attributed problems at its sites to the buildings' age, a lack of support from the city and a challenging tenant population.

Another sticking point in the foundation's attempt to buy the trust portfolio could be the availability of social services. The citys bidding qualifications call for any purchaser to have a history of successfully operating supportive housing or partner with a property management firm that did. The foundation does not supply services to tenants in most of its buildings, citing the costs to do so.

Ensuring health and safety of the tenants and providing required supportive services is essential to the Departments regulatory compliance and failure to meet these standards puts tenants at risk, Seeger wrote in the letter.

The state and the city are creditors on the trust buildings, but neither controls the sale. Last spring, with the trust unable to pay its bills or care for its tenants, the city petitioned Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff for a receivership to manage the buildings and oversee repairs. Final determinations on what happens to the properties rest with the judge.

Beckloff already has approved turning over 11 of the trusts 29 properties, newer buildings that have tax credit investors, to other nonprofit providers with experience in homeless housing and social services, and one more is expected. The receiver, Receivership Specialists, is marketing the remaining 17 for sale.

A decision about who will buy at least some of them is expected within weeks. The City Council discussed the receivership in a closed session hearing Friday.

Clara Karger, Bass' press secretary, said whichever providers are selected to buy the properties should be able to meet the qualifications to offer services and demonstrate that they can continue rehabilitation efforts at the properties.

"The city will be closely scrutinizing any future buyers based on rigorous criteria established and provided," Karger said. "As of now, the receiver has informed us that AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the only organization that has come to the table with a financially feasible offer."

Read more: The end of Skid Rows cheap hotels? L.A. leaders want to replace last-resort homeless housing

In a written response to questions from The Times, Jackson Wyche, a senior project manager with Receivership Specialists, said that the company is reviewing offers and bargaining with multiple prospective purchasers for a dozen of the trust properties and that the final five will be listed soon.

Wyche declined to name any of the bidders, but said he expected there to be more than one buyer dividing up the properties. The receiver will negotiate letters of intent, purchase agreements and then file motions with the court seeking confirmation of the sales, Wyche said. Terms are likely to include measures to ensure the buildings' long-term operation, he said.

"We do not want a situation where we sell these properties, and then they end up back in receivership because their new owners cant safely operate them," Wyche said.

In the fall, the City Council approved a preliminary plan for the city housing authority to take over any remaining properties from the receivership, stabilize them financially and then turn the buildings over to nonprofit providers that would tear down or gut them for conversion into efficiency apartments. The motivation for the proposal in part was a growing belief among public officials and social service agencies that single-room occupancy hotels, many of which are a century old and do not include private bathrooms, are an outdated housing model for chronically homeless residents with significant mental health or drug addiction challenges.

But since then, the city's and states financial outlook have worsened. The city already has authorized nearly $40 million to finance the receivership and was expected to seek more dollars this year. Gov. Gavin Newsoms proposed budget for next year ratchets back spending on affordable housing , dollars that could have been used to redevelop the trust buildings.

Through a receivership sale, at least a portion of the citys expenditures would be repaid.

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation has been interested in the Skid Row Housing Trusts entire portfolio since its impending dissolution became public in February last year. Foundation officials toured half a dozen properties as part of sale explorations within weeks of the news, a spokesperson for the charity told The Times last year.

Read more: Inside the world's largest AIDS charity's troubled move into homeless housing

Currently, the foundation is facing at least 10 lawsuits in state and federal court over conditions in its buildings, including class-action cases detailing habitability concerns in the Baltimore and Madison single-room occupancy hotels in Skid Row. A negligence suit against the foundation filed by a Madison tenant who was shot in his doorway reached a preliminary settlement this month, court filings from the case show. Terms were undisclosed.

Last February, the foundation settled a lawsuit filed by elderly and disabled tenants at the Madison over the buildings perpetually out-of-service elevator, paying $832,000 to 13 residents and undisclosed amounts to four others. The foundation agreed to additional elevator repairs at the time. But outages remain frequent, including five consecutive weeks without service this year before the elevator was restored on March 15, according to the city housing department.

Wyche of Receivership Specialists said the company wants to recommend buyers for the first dozen trust buildings up for sale by early April. The next court hearing in the receivership case is scheduled for Thursday.

Times staff writer Doug Smith contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A homeless man who flops at a shelter in the Bowery has been arrested for back-to-back shootings in Tompkins Square Park in which two innocent bystanders were wounded, police said Wednesday.

Cops grabbed Waldemar Alverio, 33, on Tuesday, charging him with both shootings in the Manhattan green space.

He was slapped with attempted murder, assault and reckless endangerment charges, police said.

Alverio has an extensive criminal history with 48 prior arrests and was staying at a shelter on the Bowery, about four blocks from the park, police said.

Gunshots rang out in the park near Avenue A and E. Ninth St. in the East Village around 12:47 p.m. on March 16 as scores of visitors enjoyed 60-degree temperatures, cops said.

When police arrived, they found a 26-year-old man shot in the buttocks and a 53-year-old woman with a gunshot wound to the right hip.

EMS took both victims to Bellevue Hospital, where they were treated and released.

Less than a week later, on March 21, shots rang out in the park once again, this time near E. Eighth St. and Avenue B. The shooter was seen fleeing the park on a Citi Bike, cops said. No one was hit by gunfire.

Alverio was having an ongoing clash with someone in the park when he opened fire at his rival. A week later, he again opened fire at the rival, police sources said.

Detectives are trying to determine if both shootings were connected to drug activity that has plagued the park over the last few years.

His arraignment in Manhattan Criminal Court was pending Wednesday.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, March 27. Kyrgyzstan and the World Bank (WB) have discussed the implementation of promising projects and the progress made on previously reached agreements, Trend reports.

According to the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, the matters were deliberated upon by the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, Akylbek Japarov, and a WB delegation led by the Regional Director for Central Asia Countries, Tatiana Proskuryakova.

In particular, Japarov highlighted the importance of the high-quality implementation of the Kambarata HPP-1 construction project, which holds broad economic, environmental, and social benefits and prospects for both the country and the Central Asian region.

The parties also discussed the upcoming "spring meetings" of the WB and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in April 2024, as well as the forthcoming energy forum in Austria in June of the current year.

According to Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Energy, the Kambarata HPP-1 is one of the largest hydropower projects in Central Asia. It will be located on the Naryn River. The HPP is designed to have a capacity of 1,860 MW and a reservoir volume of 5.4 billion cubic meters, with an expected annual electricity generation of 5.6 billion kWh.

In November 2023, Kyrgyzstan signed an agreement with the WB for technical assistance amounting to $5 million to update the feasibility study of the Kambarata HPP-1.
March 26 (UPI) -- The Justice Department on Tuesday filed a formal complaint to seize $14 million worth of Manhattan real estate owned by Mongolia's former prime minister in an alleged international corruption scheme.

It was alleged that Sukhbataar Batbold -- who lead Mongolia from 2009-2012 -- had abused his power as prime minister "to profit from the sale of his country's natural resources," according to a statement released Tuesday by the Justice Department's Office of Public Affairs.

"He and his family used the proceeds of their corrupt scheme to buy $14 million in high-end real estate in the United States," Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole Argentieri said while calling Mongolia's former leader -- currently a member of his country's parliament -- a "kleptocrat."

It was alleged that Batbold abused his power by awarding lucrative government contracts for work in the state-controlled copper mines to unqualified companies owned by either his son or other associates.

The civil complaint filed Tuesday against Batbold in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York points to two apartment located in New York City.

He faced similar actions in 2021 with property owned in an upscale London neighborhood in Britain.

The two real estate parcels were purchased for millions of dollars in what the federal government said was an "international corruption scheme" and are subject to forfeiture based on violations of federal money laundering statutes.

The United States had alleged that a shell company -- Catrison -- which was owned by those within Batbold's circle, was awarded a $68 million contract despite the company having no background or mining expertise.

It said that millions of dollars had been siphoned into foreign bank accounts and through a series of other shell companies.
JACKSON TWP.  The same day the sun disappears in the afternoon sky, so too will the ability of non-members to stroll into Costco to take advantage of its $1.50 lunch.

That's because the warehouse club, with a newish location at 4953 Huckleberry St. NW, will require a membership to anyone who wishes to order at its food court.

The wildly popular hot dog-and-drink combos, along with slices of pizza, gooey chocolate chip cookies and cups of ice cream have been one of the attractions for the new store, which opened during Summer 2023 in Jackson Township. And, as of April 8, those who regularly partake will need to use an active Costco membership card to order and pay for food.

This hot dog-and-drink combo is single-handedly the most popular food court option at Costco.

More Chikin: He keeps eating mor chikin. Ohio man celebrates 1,000th consecutive visit to Chick-fil-A

In the past, visiting the food court has typically been an easy visit, passing by an employee checking for cards as shoppers enter the huge store.

My pal Amy Knapp, education reporter for The Massillon Independent and Canton Repository, and I stopped in recently for lunch in the food court.

Pizza, by the slice or a whole pie, is available in cheese or pepperoni at the Costco food court in Jackson Township.

We tried almost everything available, from that famous hot dog combo to pizza slices (both pepperoni and plain cheese), the chicken bake, a turkey-and-swiss sandwich, and the double chocolate chunk cookie. Yes, we also dipped into the ice cream sundaes.

A stacked turkey breast and swiss sandwich with lettuce and a sun-dried tomato spread is served cold on a ciabatta roll at Costco food court.

Italian fare 2 go: Review: Angello's 2 Go makes Italian carryout delicious, easy

There was a steady stream of individuals and families eating in the food court, with the majority ordering the hot dog combo or pizza.

The $1.50 hot dog combo includes a quarter-pound-plus all beef hot dog and a 20-ounce soda (with refill). Condiments were available. The hot dog was hot and plump, with a good snap. Pizza ($1.99 for a slice, $9.94 for a whole pie) had lots of cheese and pepperoni, and if you enjoy a lot of puffy crust, this would be your thing.

The Chicken Bake is more like a toasted wrap with chunks of chicken, pieces bacon and a Caesar dressing coated with shredded cheese.

Neither of us cared for the chicken bake ($3.99), a long, roll with chicken breast chunks, pieces of bacon and Caesar dressing with cheese shreds on the outside. We both thought that if the chicken had been cut much smaller it might have helped. The turkey-and-swiss sandwich ($6.99) was a large ciabatta roll stuffed with sliced and oven-roasted turkey breast, swiss cheese, crisp lettuce, a mayo-and-mustard spread at the bottom and sun-dried tomato spread, similar to a pesto, at the top. It cut easily with a plastic knife to share, was filled with ingredients yet easy to eat. Tasty and fresh.

We skipped the rotisserie chicken Caesar salad ($6.99), cold brew mocha freeze ($2.99) and fruit smoothie ($2.99).

For a sweet ending, we also dug in. We shared a few bites of the double chocolate chunk cookie ($2.49), which is served warm. It was a little too thick for my liking, but had great buttery and chocolate flavors and you can never go wrong with a cookie served warm. We also shared a few spoonfuls of two ice cream sundaes ($2.49 each)  chocolate ice cream with chocolate topping, and vanilla ice cream with strawberry topping. I didnt care for the chocolate sundae, but the strawberry sundae was OK. Both boasted generous amounts of ice cream and toppings. If you're not interested in toppings, an ice cream cup ($1.99) also is available.

For those who feel the food court is a must visit, Costco memberships soon will be a must.

Ice cream sundaes are available as a special treat at the food court at Costco.

First Watch gets tropical

First Watch, a chain of brunch and lunch restaurants with a location at 5075 Dressler Road NW in Jackson Township, has introduced a new seasonal menu featuring tropical flavors.

The five limited-time offerings will be available nationwide through May 26. Company officials say the new menu items blend returning customer favorites with new creations.

The new menu items include shrimp and grits, hacienda hash, Hawaiian french toast, holey donuts and a tropical sunrise juice.

Reach Bev at bshaffer@gannett.com or 330-580-8318.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Dig in at Costco food court before memberships are required
MSP Liam McArthur hopes his bill will be voted on in 2025

Scotland could become the first UK nation to provide terminally ill people with assistance to end their lives if a bill being introduced at Holyrood is approved.

Supporters of the legislation say it would ease suffering.

Opponents worry that some terminally ill people could feel under pressure to end their lives.

The Assisted Dying Bill has been drafted by the Liberal Democrat MSP, Liam McArthur, who expects it to be debated this autumn and potentially voted on next year.

The bill is published on Wednesday.

The Scottish government says ministers and SNP backbenchers will not be instructed how to vote, as the matter is an issue of individual conscience.

First Minister Humza Yousaf, who is a Muslim, has indicated that he is likely to vote against the bill, which is also opposed by the Church of Scotland, the Catholic Church in Scotland, and the Scottish Association of Mosques.

Under the proposals, a patient could only request medical assistance to end their life if they had a terminal illness and had been ruled mentally fit to make the decision by two doctors.

Mr McArthur says "the terminal illness would need to be advanced and progressive" and the medics would have to ensure there was "no coercion."

In addition, the patient must be aged 16 or over, a resident of Scotland for at least 12 months, and must administer the life-ending medication themselves.

In Scotland, it is not illegal to attempt suicide but helping someone take their own life could lead to prosecution for crimes such as murder, culpable homicide or offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

In England and Wales, the Suicide Act 1961 makes it an offence to encourage or assist the suicide or attempted suicide of another person. In 2015, the House of Commons decided against changing the law by 330 votes to 118.

In Northern Ireland, a similar offence is set out in the Criminal Justice Act 1966.

This will be the third time that the Scottish Parliament has considered the issue.

In 2010, MSPs rejected Margo MacDonald's End of Life Assistance Bill by 85 votes to 16.

The independent MSP, who had Parkinson's Disease, died in 2014 and the cause was taken up by Patrick Harvie of the Scottish Greens.

The following year, his Assisted Suicide Bill was rejected by 82 votes to 36.

The title of Mr McArthur's bill  Assisted Dying rather than Assisted Suicide  reflects a change in approach from campaigners.

Critics such as Dr Fiona MacCormick of the Association for Palliative Medicine (APM) say the new terminology is "harmful and unhelpful," adding, "they've used very euphemistic language to talk about suicide."

Mr McArthur says he would "strongly disagree," because "we're talking about people with a terminal illness, and the fact they are going to die has already been established."

The MSP for Orkney Islands believes there has been a significant "mood shift" among his fellow parliamentarians since the issue was last debated and is hopeful that his proposal will be approved.

Gillie Davison, whose husband Steve died with throat cancer last year  is in favour of a law change

So is Gillie Davison, whose husband Steve died of throat cancer last April, at the age of 56.

Ms Davison, from Hawick in the Scottish Borders, says even high-quality palliative care did not ease his suffering in the final days and hours.

"It wasn't a good death because he was distressed and he was upset," she explains.

"It wasn't what he wanted. He wanted that choice."

She believes an assisted dying bill would have allowed her husband to "go to sleep" peacefully at home and could prevent other families from enduring a similarly "devastating" experience in future.

Changing the law, she says, would be "compassionate and kind."

But Dr MacCormick says she is concerned about the potential for inaccurate diagnosis and prognosis, undetected coercion, and fluctuating mental capacity in seriously ill patients.

"As a palliative care doctor, when I see patients who are suffering, I don't see the answer to their suffering as being to end the life of the sufferer," she says.

But some terminally-ill patients say they would find the option reassuring even if they did not use it.

Mandie Malcolm hopes a change in law would let her stop worrying about "dying a brutal death"

In 2015, at the age of 26, Mandie Malcolm from Falkirk was diagnosed with breast cancer which had spread to other parts of her body.

She was told that her life expectancy was two to five years.

Now 34, Ms Malcolm is still alive thanks to advances in cancer treatment but, she says, she lies awake at night worrying about how her life will end.

Until starting a new drug, she says, she was "bedridden for weeks and in huge amounts of pain.

"I really worry about my death. I worry that I'm going to suffer, horrifically, basically, and it does scare me," she explains.

Ms Malcolm is strongly in favour of the assisted dying law, which she says would mean she could stop worrying about "dying a brutal death" and "enjoy the good times."

"It would mean everything to me and my family," she adds.

But campaigners against the measure point to laws enacted in Belgium and Canada where qualifying criteria have been loosened over time, leading to a sharp rise in the number of "assisted" deaths.

Mr McArthur says his proposed law is not modelled on those "permissive and expansive models" but on places such as the US state of Oregon where "the eligibility criteria has not changed at all" since becoming law in 1997.

He is supported by the broadcaster and campaigner, Dame Esther Rantzen, who recently revealed that she was considering travelling to Switzerland - where assisted suicide has been legal since 1942 - to die after being diagnosed with incurable lung cancer.

She says: "I want to congratulate the Scottish Parliament for prioritising this debate so that they can carefully consider this crucial issue and scrutinise this historic Assisted Dying Bill."

Audrey Birt would prefer to see greater investment in palliative care

Audrey Birt from Edinburgh also has terminal cancer, the latest of five breast cancer diagnoses over 30 years, and has spent the past 12 years "in and out of hospital."

But she does not want assistance to end her life and has concerns that, if the law is changed, some patients might feel that they must do so to help their families.

"In Scotland," she says, "we don't like to be a burden.

"That's the aspect I worry about  that there may be pressure," she explains.

Instead Ms Birt, who is 68 years old, says there should be increased investment in palliative care, which she receives at St Columba's Hospice in Edinburgh.

"After coming here and being more aware of what's on offer, I do wonder if it was available to everyone, would that take away some of the fear that is behind the bill?" she asks.

Helen Malo of the charity Hospice UK says her organisation is neutral on the bill but wants better funding of palliative care.

Hospices are facing huge funding challenges

Hospices support more than 21,000 people in Scotland each year, she says. But they are struggling, with only a third of their funding coming from the state, the rest from charitable donations, and rising costs.

"One in four people do not get access to specialist palliative care," adds Ms Malo, who says that, as the nation ages, demand is expected to increase by a fifth by 2040.

"There are fewer specialist palliative care doctors in Scotland than there are MSPs," says Dr MacCormick of the APM.

Without adequate palliative care, she says, the worry is that assisted suicide "is not just a choice. It becomes a suggestion, which then becomes an expectation and that our vulnerable patients are at risk."

Supporters of the bill say they too want more funding for hospices and are prepared for a debate about how and if such a commitment could be woven into the bill.

They also know that moral, religious and practical objections must be overcome if the momentous change they propose is to become law.
On a foggy night in 1975, a gasoline tanker plowed into the Mount Hope Bridge.

It was "only by chance" that the gasoline tanks didn't rupture, which "would have probably caused an explosion and fire resulting in the loss of the vessel, the bridge, and possibly human life," the State Pilotage Commission later determined.

In other words, a nightmare scenario like the one that unfolded in Baltimore early Tuesday morning could happen here.

But Rhode Islanders may take some comfort in knowing that the cargo ship that hit Maryland's Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse, is larger than the ships that routinely make their way up Narragansett Bay. And that when an oil tanker did hit the Newport Bridge in 1981, it caused no major structural damage.

The Claiborne Pell Bridge, commonly known as the Newport Bridge, is a suspension bridge.

Ship involved in Baltimore collapse was larger than those unloading at Davisville and ProvPort

The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority, which is responsible for the Newport, Jamestown, Mount Hope and Sakonnet River bridges, declined to comment on what would happen in the event of a ship collision. Doing so would be premature, spokeswoman Cara Cromwell suggested when The Providence Journal reached out on Tuesday morning.

As a result, it's hard to know how those bridges compare with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

But the design and construction of that bridge probably played little role in its collapse, civil engineers told USA TODAY. Once the Singapore-flagged container cargo ship Dali smashed into one of its support columns, the bridge stood little chance.

Federal Highway Administration records indicate that the bridge was in fair condition when it was last inspected in 2021.

It's unclear whether any bridge could have withstood the impact from such a large and heavily loaded vessel. According to Bloomberg, the 948-foot, 32,000-ton ship was carrying about 4,900 containers at the time of accident.

That ship "does not travel in Narragansett Bay and is significantly larger than any ship that sails in the Bay," said David Preston, spokesman for the Quonset Development Corporation.

He noted that the Port of Davisville, one of the country's leading ports for roll-on roll-off car carriers, does not handle container cargo.

ProvPort similarly does not handle container cargo, "nor does any shipping operator in the Port of Providence," said Bill Fischer, spokesman for ProvPort.

The ship involved in the Baltimore incident has never berthed there and is "much larger" than the typical vessel that would do so, he said.

The Newport bridge in an image taken from the Rose Island Lighthouse on Dec. 5, 2023.

Newport Bridge was hit by heating-oil tanker in 1980s

While the ships entering Narragansett Bay may not be as large as the one that caused the bridge collapse in Baltimore, they're certainly big enough to do some damage  and may be carrying hazardous materials like home heating oil.

"Even if its not that the ships are getting bigger, traffic has increased," said Jason McNamee, a Department of Environmental Management official who serves as chairman of the State Pilotage Commission.

Most large ships go under the Newport Pell Bridge, which has considerably more clearance than the other bridges that span the Bay because it was designed to accommodate aircraft carriers. Since that bridge sits in such deep water, it was deemed "impractical" to build free-standing fenders for the bridge as a way to protect it from ships, Thomas R. Kuesel, who directed the preliminary design, wrote in 1983.

Instead, the bridge's pier supports were "designed for an arbitrary ship impact force of 1,650 tons," or roughly equivalent to the force from a 20,000-ton ship traveling at 3 knots, Kuesel said.

That strategy was put to the test on a foggy day in 1981 when a 562-foot oil tanker hit one of the support piers. The collision did only superficial damage to the bridge, and none of the heating oil tanks ruptured, The Journal reported at the time.

In his subsequent analysis, Kuesel calculated that the bridge had withstood a 6,000-ton collision  a much bigger hit than it was designed to handle.

"The Newport Bridge is fortunate that it has good foundations, and that the requirement to design for hurricane winds gives it an extra margin of safety against ship collisions," he noted.

Luck played a major role in the 1975 incident in which a tanker struck the Mount Hope Bridge. That ship "hit the granite and concrete suspension tower in such a way that the stem of its bow, reinforced for ice breaking, absorbed the initial shock and damage," The Journal reported, citing the State Pilotage Commission's report.

What policies does RI have in place to prevent bridge collisions?

McNamee, the commission's chair, said the panel will be reviewing the disastrous incident in Baltimore in order to see if there are any changes that need to be made to prevent a similar scenario here.

But overall, he said, he feels good about the policies that Rhode Island has in place.

On a foggy night in 1975, a gasoline tanker plowed into the Mount Hope Bridge. It was "only by chance" that the tanks holding the volatile fuel didn't rupture and unleash a disastrous fire, the State Pilotage Commission later concluded.

State regulations require most large vessels  such as car carriers, oil tankers, other cargo ships and even some cruise ships  to be under the control of a local pilot while underway. Those pilots are "highly skilled and highly trained," McNamee said. (As part of their final test, they have to draw a detailed map of Narragansett Bay, including all its islands and channels, from memory.)

Even newly certified pilots have typically worked on boats for "years and years" before undergoing the equivalent of an apprenticeship and logging enough hours to pilot progressively larger and larger ships, McNamee said.

The ship that hit the bridge in Baltimore was under the control of a local pilot when it lost power. It's still too early to know what went wrong, McNamee said, but the disaster could certainly inspire changes here if it exposes gaps in the system. (Previously, when a container ship became stuck in the Suez Canal, that led to stricter rules on the use of cellphones.)

"Whatever happened there could conceivably happen in Rhode Island as well," McNamee said. "But we try to be proactive."

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Could a large ship cause a Baltimore-like bridge collapse in RI?
Residents of a deteriorating apartment complex will have to wait a little longer before seeing fixes after the Oklahoma City Council agreed to delay a vote that would label the property a public nuisance.

City staff had recommended that The Alora apartment complex in northwest Oklahoma City be declared "abandoned" by its owners, and that two of the more than two dozen buildings on the property be deemed dilapidated because of fire damage.

Those declarations would have given the city legal authority to force repairs or tear down the buildings.

Ward 1 Councilor Bradley Carter said Tuesday that the owners asked for more time because they are trying to secure affordable housing loans, and that placing a lien on the property now would complicate those efforts. The council will take up the issue again on June 4.

The apartment complex did not respond to requests for comment.

The Alora has been the subject of numerous complaints in recent years. After two out-of-state investment companies purchased the Isola Bella apartment complex in 2022, the new ownership renamed it The Alora and promised to invest $30,000 into each of its 850 units.

By summer 2023, the complex was in shambles. Several units had broken doors and windows. Residents complained that transients use empty apartments, leaving behind rotting trash and pests that make their way through the buildings' shared ductwork.

"I've always considered it secure and safe. And I don't anymore," one resident told The Oklahoman last year about their living conditions.

Oklahoma City Code Enforcement Superintendent Chad Davidson told The Oklahoman that the recommendation was made after receiving a complaint about the property, a sprawling complex at 6303 NW 63.

This photo provided last year by a resident of The Alora apartment complex shows an unsecured, vacant apartment unit that had been used by transients. Oklahoma City code enforcement says that everything that can be secured on the property has been, except for two structures that have been damaged by fire.

Dilapidated label could spur Alora owners to improve or demolish buildings

After The Oklahoman began looking into complaints about the apartment complex last year, the city's code enforcement office issued violations against the property for overflowing trash bins, high grass and unsecured apartment units. At the time, a representative of the apartment's newest management company, Asset Living, laid blame on the property's previous manager, an Arkansas company called Trinity Multifamily, for letting things get so bad.

Davidson said this week it appears everything at the apartment complex that can to be secured, has been secured.

"We want them to repair or remove those dangerous structures," Davidson said. "If they repair them, great, even better. That way, we have even more space for folks to live."

If the buildings had been declared dilapidated by the council, Davidson said that the code enforcement department would ask for a reasonable plan of action to bring it into compliance. If that plan isn't met, the city could then order the fire-damaged buildings be demolished.

It's believed that the burned structures have no electric service and are unoccupied.

A second-story apartment with a window unit is pictured Aug. 16 at The Alora apartment complex, 6303 NW 63 in Oklahoma City.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC council gives dilapidated apartment owners time to pursue fixes
Council of Europe Development Bank has allocated a loan of 100 million euros ($108 million) to restore housing for Ukrainians, Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said on March 27.

"This means that more than 2,000 families will soon receive new homes," Kubrakov said on X.

"These are the people whose homes were totally destroyed as a result of Russian aggression."

More than two years of Russia's full-scale war took a heavy toll on Ukraine's civilian infrastructure. Almost half of people from the east and south of the country reported their houses damaged or destroyed during the hostilities.

The World Bank estimated in February that the full cost of Ukraine's post-war reconstruction would amount to $486 billion over a 10-year period.

Raising funds to cover recovery needs remains a challenge for Kyiv and its partners. Last month, the European Council approved the Ukraine Facility, a four-year financing of 50 billion euros ($54 billion) to aid the besieged country's recovery efforts and help finance the state's functioning amid the full-scale war.

Read also: Russia aims to knock out Ukraines power grid in new wave of attacks

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Administrative Council of the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) has approved the project "NOME: Compensation for Destroyed Property," which envisages granting Ukraine a loan of 100 million.

Background: European Pravda, citing Ukraine's Ministry of Finance

The funds are planned to be directed towards supporting the mechanism of direct assistance, through which participants in hostilities, persons with disabilities, and large families will receive compensation for housing destroyed due to Russian hostilities and terrorist attacks in the form of certificates for purchasing housing.

Deputy Minister of Finance of Ukraine Olha Zykova thanked the bank's leadership for their active support and solidarity with Ukraine, noting the importance of projects supporting the social sphere.

"The housing sector remains one of the most affected by the war  the total losses are estimated at nearly US$50 billion," she said.

The project will allow approximately 5,700 Ukrainians to receive compensation for destroyed housing. It will be implemented through the eRecovery programme across Ukraine.

After automated verification of certificate applications is complete, a special State Compensation Commission will process and approve them. The entire application process can be tracked via the Diia app.

Background:

The Ministry of Justice announced that an international registry of damage caused by Russian aggression against Ukraine will be opened in April.

Earlier, in an interview with European Pravda, Markiian Kliuchkovskyi, Executive Director of the Register of Damage Caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, explained how they will seek funds from Russia to pay compensation to Ukrainians.

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Conservation Collier is aimed at preserving vacant land like this, with wildlife, such as gopher tortoises.

County commissioners have solidified changes to the popular Conservation Collier program.

On Tuesday, they tweaked the ordinance governing the land-buying program, with three separate unanimous votes.

Big changes include allowing the county to sell Conservation Collier land, but only if proceeds are returned to the program, and to set the tax rate for the program every year, up to the amount approved by voters.

Commissioners accepted a few, but not all of the last-minute changes suggested by Brad Cornell, the policy director for Audubon Florida and Audubon of the Western Everglades.

His suggestions, in part, were designed to tighten up on the county's ability to divert the program's money to other uses, and to clearly specify that any diverted funds must be replaced "promptly" to assure program obligations are met, including land management.

Collier Commissioner Burt Saunders was ready and eager to support all of Cornell's recommendations, without discussion.

However, some of the wording Cornell proposed stirred concerns among other commissioners, including his suggestion that funds only be withdrawn from the program's funds for other purposes based on an official declaration of an emergency by local, state or federal officials.

A majority of commissioners didn't like the reference to state or federal officials, saying outside decisions shouldn't have bearing on the local program. In fact, Commissioner Rick LoCastro said it made him cringe.

"We want local control," he said. "Local decisions."

Collier County Commissioner Rick LoCastro

Commissioner Dan Kowal agreed. Looking back to a few years ago when the governor declared a state of emergency in Florida due to the spread of COVID, he argued a decision like that shouldn't give the county a right to "pillage" Conservation Collier funds.

"This is more of a local program, and I think it should be controlled locally by your county commissioners," he said.

Most commissioners didn't like the idea of requiring a local emergency declaration to withdraw unused money from the conservation program's accounts, either. So, even that suggestion didn't make the cut in the revised ordinance.

Commission chairman Chris Hall argued adding such language wasn't necessary, and that the verbiage should be left looser, as previously discussed by the board, to allow a transfer of money in the "event of an emergency," determined by a simple majority of county commissioners.

In agreement, Commissioner Bill McDaniel said he didn't see a need for requiring any sort of emergency declaration and wouldn't be happy about it.

The refusal to add the language came as a disappointment to Cornell.

"We certainly hope there wont be any emergencies, but we were disappointed the board did not clarify that only official declarations of a state of emergency defines 'emergency,'" he said, following the vote not to add the requirement.

Commissioners stuck with the more flexible wording to pay any borrowed money back "as soon as practicable," which Cornell hoped to change.

The changes Cornell suggested that commissioners accepted included requiring a "permanent" conservation easement, when an easement is used as a way to acquire property through the program. Commissioners felt adding permanent would be helpful, even if redundant.

"We are talking about one word here," LoCastro said. "And I think it gives clarity."

Aquisition through easement is new to the program, as part of the revisions.

Commissioners discussed adjustments to the Conservation Collier ordinance a few weeks ago, giving direction to county staff on the wording they'd like to see in an effort to improve and bring more transparency to the willing seller program.

More: Conservation Collier won't be gutted, but board considers changes to popular program

In October, commissioners voted that they could use $53 million of the program's funds to fill other gaps in the county's budget this year, after they'd cut property taxes. Chairman Hall and others have described it as a one-time decision, as they look for ways to cut back on government spending, generally.

Commissioners have yet to pay the diverted money back, though they hope to with their effort to adopt a priority-based budget next year.

The priority-based budgeting approach is designed to better align resources and funding with community priorities and outcomes, shifting the focus to accountability for program results.

In case you missed it: Telling voters no: Commissioners formalize 'right' to divert Conservation Collier money

More: Collier board votes to roll back property rates, and cut money for Conservation Collier

Last year, the board voted 4-1 in favor of diverting the conservation funds, with Burt Saunders casting the lone no vote, saying he found nothing "appealing" about the idea at the time.

"I was the commissioner who said this was a one-time thing," Hall reminded before voting on the revisions to the program's ordinance. "We live in a time that your word doesn't mean very much, but it solidifies me."

Collier County Commission Chairman Chris Hall

The money for Conservation Collier comes from a self-imposed tax. Voters have agreed to tax themselves three times to support the program.

Taking a closer look at the program, after diverting the funds, led to positive changes, shining a light on what wasn't working with it, LoCastro and other commissioners have emphasized.

Critics have accused the board of trying to gut the program.

However, LoCastro said he's still flabbergasted that supporters weren't raising more of a fuss when the money was accumulating and "collecting dust," and purchases were lagging.

"So, we don't want to be guilty of that anymore," he said.

Internally, the county has already made strides in speeding up the land acquisition process, and some of the approved changes to the ordinance are meant to build upon those improvements and add flexibility.

Revisions to the ordinance include allowing the county commission to set the millage, or tax rate, for the program each year, as well as the percentage of revenues going into each of the two funds, one for acquisitions and the other for maintenance.

The tax rate would not exceed 0.25 mills, the amount approved by voters. One mill equates to $1 for every $1,000 worth of a property's assessed, or taxable, value (after adjustments, such as the homestead exemption).

Other changes to the ordinance will allow Conservation Collier land to be sold, as long as revenues return to the program, but it's not expected to happen often.

"We are concerned about that and had recommended inclusion of a sale criterion of 'lands no longer meeting the purposes of the Conservation Collier program,' or similar. The board rejected that," Cornell said.

He believes a sale would be a "rare exception," done only when the property is needed for roads or utilities, or other public purposes.

"However, we will be monitoring that provision," Cornell said. "The board has said on the record they support the Conservation Collier program and its goals, so wantonly selling off preserves, even to fund management or buying of other preserves conflicts with that publicly stated board support. Such a conflict would be clearly observed by the whole community."

With the revisions to the ordinance, the county will use eight criteria to evaluate land acquisitions, including a few new ones, in an effort to improve the screening and approval process.

Now, signed contracts for land buys will go directly to the county commission for approval, with no need for a review or first look by the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee, as a way to speed up purchases.

Cornell worked closely with the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee and county staff on the positive changes, with the backing of program supporters.

"Audubon Western Everglades and Audubon Florida are very supportive of the just-adopted important improvements to the Conservation Collier ordinance aimed at accelerating conservation land buying, bringing more current science into the eligibility criteria, and streamlining the program," he said.

Moving forward, LoCastro said potential acquisitions should no longer be stacked up and brought to county commissioners once or twice a year. Indeed, the board should be disappointed, or even embarrassed, if it doesn't start seeing purchases on the agenda at nearly every meeting.

Jamie French, head of the county's Growth Management Department, told commissioners county staff has taken a much more aggressive approach to acquisitions this year, with the help of program supporters and volunteers.

As a result, he said, the board should see "north of $20 million" worth of purchases coming its way in April.

While the revisions to the ordinance didn't address how the county will pay back the funds diverted this year, Commissioner McDaniel stressed those discussions are coming soon, as part of the county's budget planning for 2025.

"The board ... wisely voted this week to limit any future borrowing of Conservation Collier trust funds for emergencies only and committed to replace all future borrowed funds. Audubon and the community will be watching the budget process for FY 2025 this fall to make sure the board abides by their commitments," Cornell said.

The revised ordinance explicitly states that if the program doesn't have enough money to maintain the acquired lands in the future, the general fund would be tapped to cover it.

The tax that supports Conservation Collier is set to sunset in 2031, if not renewed through another voter referendum.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: County commissioners solidify changes to Conservation Collier
Donald Trump didnt hold back against his former ally Ronna McDaniel after she was fired from NBC, following just days on the job.

NBC News confirmed the news of McDaniels firing Tuesday night, following an immediate on-air revolt by some of the networks biggest stars. No organization, particularly a newsroom, can succeed unless it is cohesive and aligned, NBCUniversal News Group Chair Cesar Conde said in a memo. Over the last few days, it has become clear that this appointment undermines that goal.

The dismissal comes just weeks after McDaniel was unceremoniously ousted as Republican National Committee chair, at Trumps behest. And the Republican presidential nominee wasted no time in piling onto McDaniels woes.

Wow! Ronna McDaniel got fired by Fake News NBC. She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear, Trump wrote on Truth Social Tuesday night. It leaves her in a very strange place, its called NEVER NEVERLAND, and its not a place you want to be. These Radical Left Lunatics are CRAZY, and the top people at NBC ARE WEAK.

Its another embarrassing blow for McDaniel. While she was at the RNC, she repeatedly pushed Trumps conspiracies, including that the 2020 election had been rigged and that mail-in voting allowed for fraudulent ballots to be cast. She helped organize Trumps fake-elector scheme and tried to pressure Michigan officials not to certify the states 2020 election results. And she even tried to cast doubt on the 2020 election during a Meet the Press interview on Sundayher first and only appearance on NBC since the network first announced her cushy gig.

NBC had planned to pay McDaniel about $300,000 per year to appear as a conservative political analyst on the network. But her hiring prompted an immediate revolt from some of NBCs biggest stars.

Longtime anchor Chuck Todd said the top brass owed Meet the Press host Kristen Welker an apology and slammed McDaniel for credibility issues. He noted that under McDaniels time leading the RNC, many journalists who tried to report on the organization and the Republican Party have been met with gaslighting, have been met with character assassination.

On Monday, Morning Joe hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski slammed NBCs decision to hire McDaniel and played a compilation of the former RNC chairs many lies. By Tuesday morning, several other MSNBC anchors also expressed outrage, including Nicole Wallace, Joy Reid, Jen Psaki, Lawrence ODonnell, and Rachel Maddow.

Other NBC employees, speaking anonymously, wondered what exactly McDaniel could offer the network. McDaniel is not close to Republican leaders in Congress, and she is unpopular with anti-Trump voters, who think she tipped the primaries toward the former president. McDaniel has also fallen out of favor with Donald Trump himself, leading to her resigning from the RNC at the start of the month.

McDaniels talent agency, CAA, which represented her in the deal with NBC, also dropped her on Tuesday. She is reportedly looking for a lawyer to represent her against the network.
On Wednesday, citizens across Nashville and beyond will commemorate the one-year anniversary of The Covenant School shooting.

People will pray. Thousands will link arms for 4 miles from Monroe Carell Jr. Childrens Hospital at Vanderbilt to the Tennessee State Capitol.

Others will partake in countless moments of silence to grieve the adult and student victims of this tragedy:

Kate Debusk, 8, a student at Julia Green Elementary School, writes a message on a marker remembering shooting victim Evelyn Dieckhaus, 9, at a memorial outside of The Covenant School in Nashville, Tenn., Thursday, March 30, 2023. A shooting at the school on Monday left three adults and three children dead.

Honoring Covenant School one year later: We Covenant School moms invite the community to link arms on March 27 for hope and healing

What the Covenant School tragedy did and didn't do

Have we accomplished anything to make a difference in their name?

Most Tennesseans in surveys say they want reforms to firearms laws and that did not happen. Of the 19,000 residents who submitted a comment for an August special legislative session, 84% said they wanted children to be protected from gun violence  now the No. 1 killer of minors.

Gun law reforms: As a veteran, I know leadership is hard. Tennessee lawmakers must do better on gun laws

The legislature and governor did approve more grants for public safety officers in schools, indemnified firearms and ammunition sellers from civil lawsuits, and made gun locks free to residents who request them. That falls short of public sentiment.

Moreover, ideas pushed by two former governors, Bill Haslam and Phil Bredesen, and former U.S. Sen. Bill Frist, Dr. Alex Jahangir and Pastor Clay Stauffer, to keep firearms out of the hands of people who are a danger to themselves or others failed to get a vote during the special session called by Gov. Bill Lee.

Growing engaged citizens of any age is a significant accomplishment

However, in spite of these setbacks, there was something huge that happened. A wave of citizen participation and unity of purpose emerged in the months to come from people of diverse backgrounds, including parents, gun owners, conservatives and liberals.

Tennesseans People of the Year 2023: Covenant School shooting Nashville police responders

Citizens who had never been to a legislative session came to meetings with signs and determination even as some lawmakers wanted them to go away.

They persisted. New groups formed such as Voices for a Safer Tennessee, which is organizing the 4-mile human chain Wednesday.

They are sending a message that they are not going away and plan to keep pushing elected leaders to do better. They are bringing their children to these rallies and protests to train future generations of engaged citizens.

For this change to come to fruition, it requires persistence, strategic patience and doggedness  qualities these folks all possess.

A year later, so much more should have been done, but important seeds have been planted that, if continually nurtured, will yield important fruit to get to the ultimate goal: Keeping children safer from gun violence.

David Plazas is the director of opinion and engagement for the USA TODAY Network Tennessee. He is an editorial board member of The Tennessean. He hosts the Tennessee Voices videocast and curates the Tennessee Voices and Latino Tennessee Voices newsletters.. Call him at (615) 259-8063, email him at dplazas@tennessean.com or find him on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @davidplazas.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Covenant didn't reform TN gun laws. But Tennesseans found their voice
LUBBOCK  Cows in the Texas Panhandle have tested positive for the bird flu, another blow to the Texas dairy industry following historic wildfires that killed at least 7,000 livestock.

The discovery, reported at two different dairies, is believed to be the first time the disease was found in livestock, researchers say.

Strains of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, commonly known as the bird flu, were confirmed Monday by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The state agriculture department is also monitoring the outbreak. Similar outbreaks have been reported at dairies in Kansas and New Mexico.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture said there is no safety concern to the commercial milk supply. Consumer health is also not at risk, the department said. The milk from impacted animals is being dumped or destroyed and will not enter the food supply.

In the rare event that some affected milk enters the food chain, the pasteurization process will kill the virus, said Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller.

The dairy industry is critical for the state. With about 292 dairies and an estimated 625,000 cows, Texas ranks fourth in the U.S. when it comes to milk production, and contributes roughly $50 billion to the states economy. In the Panhandle, also known as Cattle Country, more than 1.3 billion gallons of milk are produced each year, according to data from the Texas Association of Dairymen. The highest rates of production are in Hartley, Castro and Moore counties.

According to the Texas Animal Health Commission, the disease is causing a decrease in milk production as well as thicker, colostrum-like milk and cows have less of an appetite. The disease is also severely impacting older cows and cows in mid-lactation. Infected herds are expected to lose up to 40% of their milk production for 7-10 days until they recover from their symptoms, Miller said.

On average, about 10% of each affected herd appears to be infected. The USDA did not specify if any cows have died from the disease. And experts say it can be difficult to track as dairies are also culling cattle for other reasons.

Milk loss from infected cows is too limited to have a major impact on supply.

There should be no impact on the price of milk or other dairy products, the USDA said in a statement.

Multiple agencies are working fast to monitor the affected herds and conduct additional testing. The disease moves quickly from bird to bird, but experts say the disease is uncommon for dairy herds.

We have never seen avian influenza in dairy cows before, said Erin Supak, director of communications for the animal health commission. So were encouraging best management practices and enhanced biosecurity measures to be put in place and ensure the spread is not going to go farther than it already has.

According to the USDA, the disease appears to have been introduced to the herds by deceased wild birds. The conclusion comes after farms reported finding the dead birds on their properties.

The animal health commission is working with the federal agriculture department and the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, as well as other agencies, to continue evaluating the situation. Experts are recommending to limit the number of people coming into dairies to employees and essential workers only, and to use biosecurity resources.

Supak says there are other signs for dairy producers to watch for including abnormal, tacky feces, low appetite and fever.

Dairy farmers and veterinarians are encouraged to report cattle illnesses to the USDA, state animal health commission or the Texas A&M lab, as the situation is ongoing. Initial testing by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories show the current risk to the public is low, as no changes in the virus have made it more transmissible to humans.

Disclosure: Texas Association of Dairymen has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

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.

Clarification, March 27, 2024 at 6:25 p.m. : This article has been updated to clarify the number of Texas dairies that have reported bird flu among its cattle after the Texas agriculture department corrected the number it publicly shared.
There's supermarket sourdough bread and then there's Jen Dondero's sourdough.

The former is often made with commercial yeast and the "sour" is achieved by adding vinegar, acetic acid or yogurt. You may also find a long list of ingredients like preservatives to keep it fresh.

In contrast, Dondero makes sourdough breads with a few simple ingredients. They rise using natural fermentation, which some studies suggest offers health benefits.

Dondero's breads also have a taste and texture all their own. They are subtly tangy, with an open, moist crumb and crusts that range from crunchy to chewy, depending on the loaf.

After spending years baking out of her home, Dondero is now baking and selling her breads at JensArtisan, a cozy bakery at 682 Winton Road in the North Winton Village. Since opening over the holidays, she's been refining her home recipes for larger quantities and commercial equipment.

The move has enabled her to double her production, but she says that's not the best part of opening a bakery. Customers frequently chat with Dondero as she bakes in the open kitchen; the bakery sells coffee, which facilitates the interaction. Neighbors will ask baking questions and even bring in loaves of their own bread for her to try. "It's super fun," she said.

What to buy at JensArtisan

Loaves of pain de campagne, a traditional French sourdough bread, line a display at the counter.

The best sellers at JensArtisan are round, decorative pain de campagne French loaves, as well as focaccia studded with various flavorful additions, like olives, San Marzano tomatoes, rosemary and/or garlic.

The week's bread baking schedule is posted online at jensartisanbread.square.site and every day Dondero bakes something different: Italian breads, spelt breads, baguettes, wheat bread and more. Friday is rye day, and Saturdays bring cinnamon buns, which often sell out well before the end of the day.

She also makes other baked goods  crackers, babka, rolls, cookies, scones and so on  incorporating her sourdough starter. Nothing contains commercial yeast, but some sweet products are leavened with baking soda.

The shop also sells an assortment of groceries, most of them local but a few from Vermont. Many items are things that go well with bread: milk, cheeses, vegan cheese, butters, meats, coffee, tea, chocolate and more.

How Dondero became a bread baker

Jen Dondero prepares more bread for the oven.

Dondero grew up in Rochester  not too far from her shop  and graduated from Rochester's School of the Arts. She headed to Vermont to attend cooking school at the New England Culinary Institute. There, she leaned toward fast-paced kitchen work rather than baking.

While living in Oregon, she started baking bread at home. "I took the same recipe and made it over and over on a daily basis," she said.

She started giving loaves to friends and her child's teachers, who wanted to purchase them. She'd wrap the loaves in plain brown butcher paper stamped with the word "bread" and her phone number. By the time she left Oregon, she was delivering several dozen loaves a week, and was known as "focaccia Jen, or the bread lady.

When the family returned to Rochester, she decided to make a go out of starting home-based bread business, which is legal with New York's home processor exemption. She would get up at 2 a.m. to hand mix huge batches of high-hydration dough and bake. "My family thought I was absolutely nuts," she said.

Her focus at the time was selling wholesale and at farmer's markets. It helped get the word out, but that aspect of the business is on the back burner as she learns the ebb and flow of her retail business.

If you go to JensArtisan

The newly opened Jens Artisan bakery at 682 N. Winton Rd in Rochester.

Where: 682 N. Winton Road

Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Parking: Available in a lot behind the building and on the street.

Accessibility: There is a step leading into the front door.

Online ordering: Available at jensartisan.com but is usually necessary only if customers have their hearts set on something specific or are visiting later in the day.

Tracy Schuhmacher writes about Rochester's bakeries, restaurants, bars and more. Notice something new in your neck of the woods? Send tips to tracys@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Jens Artisan bakery in Rochester NY makes naturally fermented breads
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

2800 block of Ross Avenue  Assault Family Violence

A citizen reported someone was lying in the alley calling for help. When police found this person, he was intoxicated and had been assaulted.

700 block of Sandefer Street  Burglary of Building

A victim reported a known suspect entered his property and stole a window unit, as well as scrap metal.

1000 block of Veterans Drive  Indecent Assault

A VFW manager reported one of her employees was assaulted by a patron.

4500 block of S 1st Street  Stalking

Police took a report for stalking.

4500 block of S 1st Street  Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse

A victim reported he fell for a paypal scam and lost money.

900 block of N Judge Ely Boulevard  Forgery Financial

A victim reported an unknown suspect took a checkbook from his truck and has been cashing checks to himself.

1300 block of N Mockingbird Lane  Criminal Trespass

A suspect was caught trespassing on a property he had been warned from previously.

2400 block of N Mockingbird Lane  Theft of Property

2900 block of S 28th Street  Criminal Trespass Habitation

A victim reported her neighbor entered her home without permission to curse at her.

2100 block of Amy Lyn Avenue  Fraudulent Use/Possession of Identifying information

Police took a report for identity theft.

4200 block of Woods Place  Unlawful Restraint

A report was taken for unlawful restraint.

600 block of N Jefferson Drive  Assault

A victim reported her roommate pushed her down and injured her.

1300 block of S Danville Drive  Assault

A victim reported she was assaulted by a suspect outside of a south Abilene restaurant. CPS was called because the suspect had her children in the vehicle at the time of the assault.

1100 block of Oak Street  Assault Family Violence

1300 block of S Danville Drive  Assault

Officers investigated an assault at a west Abilene restaurant.

1900 block of Meadowbrook Drive  Assault Family Violence

Police responded to a disturbance where a victim alleged her husband pushed her and caused her pain. She had no visible injuries.

1900 block of Denton Street  Harassment

A report for harassment was taken at a south Abilene residence.

1300 block of S San Jose Drive  Criminal Mischief

A report was taken for criminal mischief in south Abilene was a TV was destroyed.

5100 block of S 7th Street  Aggravated Robbery

A report was completed for Aggravated Robbery at a south Abilene convenience store.

2500 block of S Clack Street  Aggravated Robbery

An employee at a south Abilene convenience store reported a suspect came inside and threatened them with a firearm while demanding money. The police report states the suspect became frustrated when the employee refused to open the register and told them no, prompting the suspect to flee.

2900 block of Old Anson Road  Aggravated Assault Deadly Weapon  FV

An aggravated assault with deadly weapon report was taken in north Abilene.

2400 block of Innisbrook Drive  Burglary of Vehicle

Arrests

Davis Baldoza  Criminal Trespass

Billie Stewart  Indecent Exposure

Anthony Johnson  Stalking

Rowdy Chavez  Warrant

Marckel Daniels  Warrant

John Nelson  Public Intoxication

Damita Holland  Public Intoxication

Willie Nelson  Assault Family Violence

Leatyia Jackson  Criminal Trespass

Richard Stanley  Public Intoxication

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  A 65-year-old woman was killed Wednesday morning following a two-vehicle crash in the Nichols area, according to the Horry County Coroners Office.

Carrie Davis of Dillon County died at Grand Strand Medical Center. The coroners office said Davis died from blunt force trauma associated with the crash.

Horry County Fire Rescue responded at 9:15 a.m. to the area of Highway 19 and Pleasant View Church Road in the Nichols area, about six miles north of Loris. One of the vehicles involved in the crash overturned.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol said a 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage was traveling south on Highway 19 when a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling north crossed the center line and crashed into the Mirage.

Davis was the driver of the Mitsubishi and was the only person in the vehicle during the time of the crash. She was taken to Grand Strand Regional Medical Center where she later died, highway patrol said. The driver of the Chevrolet was not injured.

South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.

 Download the News13 app to stay updated on the go.

 Sign up for WBTW email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox.

 Find todays top stories on WBTW.com for the Grand Strand and Pee Dee.

Count on News13 for updates.

* * *

Dennis Bright is a Digital Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on, Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here.

* * *

Taylor Ford is a digital journalist for News13. She joined the News13 team in January 2023. Taylor is a Florence native and covers the Pee Dee out of News13s Florence Bureau. Read more of Taylors work here.

* * *

Caleb is a digital producer at News13. Caleb joined the team in January 2023 after graduating from Liberty University. He is from Northern Virginia. Follow Caleb on X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
SAUGATUCK  Eight former mayors of Saugatuck have penned a letter about the city's recent handling of the resignation of Ryan Heise.

As eight former Saugatuck mayors, we share a few things: We all loved, and continue to love, Saugatuck.

"We all understand well the challenges and difficulties of city leadership. And we all believe deeply in the critical need for transparency in our local government.

More: Saugatuck City Manager paid nearly $100K in exchange for resignation

"In this spirit, we urge the current Saugatuck city leadership to release to the public all information not explicitly protected by state or federal law related to the recent departure of the Saugatuck city manager, the considerations surrounding that action, the seemingly excessive severance payment and the overly favorable public announcement of his departure.

"Once provided with the facts to which they are entitled, we're confident the citizens of Saugatuck can weigh the matter responsibly and reach their own conclusions.

The letter was signed by Peg Sanford, Dave Mocini, Rich Crawford, Catherine Simon, Jane Verplank, Bill Hess, Chris Peterson and Ken Trester.

But former mayor Garnet Lewis and current mayor Lauren Stanton seem to disagree with the insinuation council has been anything but transparent.

Downtown Saugatuck, MI.

In an email to The Sentinel, Lewis claims "several (other) former mayors" disagree with the letter, though she didn't say who. When asked if she'd like to elaborate, Lewis said: "No, because I am not an attention whore and see no need to comment on a private city matter."

More: Case against former Saugatuck Mayor Garnet Lewis to be dismissed, as long as fines are paid

Stanton addressed the specifics of the letter in her own email, along with some allegations:

In response to concerns and comments from the public and some prior mayors of Saugatuck, this city knows all too well the costs of leadership change, as well as the risks created by approving agreements without legal representation.

In 2020, Saugatuck residents were surprised to see the approved pay out of more than $75,000 to another former city manager during a voluntary resignation. This enormous cost occurred during the period many of the former mayors who authored the letter to the editor served on the council.

"At the time, they defended their action as a legal necessity given the terms of the former manager's contract. Prior approval of agreements without proper legal involvement has also created its own risks for the city and its residents. Those contractual obligations and legal considerations are not unlike those recently faced by the current city council.

Stanton is referring to the resignation of Kirk Harrier, who served the city for close to 15 years. The Sentinel reported on the resignation at the time, and has filed a Freedom of Information Act request with the city for confirmation of the alleged payout.

In the remainder of her statement, Stanton focused on current events.

A year ago, council unanimously renewed our most recent city manager's employment contract and increased his six months of severance pay, previously approved by some of these former councilmembers in 2020. This contract renewal included an extra month of pay for every year served, bringing the most recent manager's severance pay to nine months if the contract was terminated for any reason other than malfeasance.

The current council approved those terms in the renewed 2020 contract because jobs like city manager can be subject to the partisan political agendas of elected officials, which we've witnessed in other municipalities. City managers in other cities in the area have 10- and 12-month severance written into their contracts to provide them some security and time to locate new employment given the highly partisan nature of even local politics in today's world.

With respect to our former city manager, I, as mayor, and council were supported by the citys employment attorney when a manager is leaving a key role at the city. Council had obligations to the city residents to be fully-informed of their legal obligations.

"I brought the legal analysis to the council in closed session per the rules of the Open Meetings Act. In open session, the unanimous vote of the six council members present instructed legal counsel to negotiate the voluntary separation agreement consistent with legal councils recommendation and to authorize the execution of the same. The result was consistent with the council's practice just four years ago.

I remain confident that the council's unanimous decision was in the best legal and financial interests of Saugatuck taxpayers. Some can second guess decisions that were made unanimously by a council that was elected by the people to make tough decisions like this, or we can move forward as this council looks to hire the next leader of our city government and complete the goals we have for this upcoming year, a year full of promise and optimism for our citys future.

When asked why the planned closed session and subsequent vote weren't included on the provided agenda, why the vote didn't take place during a regular council meeting, why neither Heise's name nor his position were spoken, and why a subsequent press release failed to mention the payout Heise would receive in exchange for his resignation, Stanton pointed to legal counsel.

"The item was added to the agenda as an agenda change at the top of the meeting," she wrote. "We weren't able to add it in time for when the packet went out. As far as anything more than that, I was going by the advice of our employment attorney."

Heise disappeared from City Hall in early February, when Interim City Manager Ryan Cummins was tapped for the role during a special meeting. At the time, no reason for the change was given.

Three weeks later, the city announced Heise's resignation in a release to media, highlighting his accomplishments during his tenure and noting his "well known" interest in relocating.

On March 7, The Sentinel reported Heise agreed to resign in exchange for nearly $100,000.

That's according to a resignation agreement obtained by The Sentinel through a Freedom of Information Act request.

According to the agreement signed by City Clerk Jamie Wolters on March 4, Saugatuck paid Heise a lump sum of 10.25 months of his annual salary, or $98,650, in exchange for his resignation, a marked increase from his original employment agreement, if he was fired without cause.

Heise will receive 144 hours of pay for unused vacation time, and will keep insurance benefits through Dec. 30.

Under his original contract, Heise was required to give a month's notice before resigning. Under the new agreement, that was waived. Heise also agreed not to re-apply for employment with the city unless asked to do so in writing, and the city agreed not to provide more than his dates of employment and job title to prospective employers unless Heise signs a written request.

The vote to approve the resignation agreement came during the final minutes of a lengthy workshop on Feb. 21, following a closed session. Three hours earlier, Stanton told attendees  most of whom were there to speak on short-term rentals  there'd be no decisions made that night.

In the weeks since, at least one councilmember has said he would've voted differently if he'd had all the information, according to a letter intended for publication in The Commercial Record and obtained by The Sentinel.

In his letter, Gardner came closest to saying why the city offered Heise money to resign at all, saying he believed it was time "for the city and the now-former city manager to part ways, as I was made aware of and personally observed behavior that was not helpful to the city and its employees."

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Since being elected, I have publicly and privately commented to (council) and its leadership concerns about the former city manager, Gardner wrote. No known action was taken. Therefore, I found this (the resignation agreement) the most viable of the options presented.

Some residents have displayed signs in their yard reading: "Please write us a check for $98,650 and we'll leave town, too."

Though the release announcing his resignation cited a known interest in job opportunities in Minnesota, Stanton said officials didn't realize he'd already applied for at least one position before signing his resignation agreement. Earlier this month, The Pioneer Press reported Heise is one of five candidates in the running for a city administrator position in Hudson, Wisconsin  which is located near the border.

 Contact reporter Austin Metz at ametz@hollandsentinel.com.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: 'Critical need for transparency': Eight former Saugatuck mayors pen letter over Heise payout
The council had ordered the pub to be built back to what it was prior to the fire

The owners of the Crooked House have lodged an appeal against an order to rebuild the historic pub after it was demolished following a suspected arson attack.

South Staffordshire Council served the enforcement notice on the owners of "Britain's wonkiest pub"in Himley, near Dudley, last month.

The order required the owners to restore the building back to what it was prior to a fire which broke out on 5 August. The building was demolished less than two days later.

The authority said it was awaiting a date when the appeal would be heard and for the appointment of a planning inspector who will adjudicate.

The historic pub set alight in August 2023

The pub is owned by ATE Farms Limited, and the enforcement notice was served to the company as well as its director George Adam Taylor and former director Carly Taylor, who stepped down in December.

The pub was demolished shortly after the fire, causing public outcry

The 18th century pub had been a popular attraction in the region, with visitors flocking to see its distinctive leaning structure.

It was first built in 1765 as a farmhouse, but due to mining in the area during the early 19th century, one side of the building began to gradually sink.

The pub had been owned by Marston's plc, but was put up for sale as part of a nationwide review by the Wolverhampton-based company and was sold to ATE Farms Limited in July 2023.

A Facebook group called Save the Crooked House gathered more than 35,000 members.

Five men and one woman have been arrested in connection with the fire, which the force is treating as arson, Staffordshire Police have said previously.

A woman, 34, and two men, aged 23 and 44, all from Leicestershire, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson with intent or being reckless as to whether life was endangered.

Three other men, aged 66, 51 and 33, had been held on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

All have been released on conditional bail.

Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk

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The district attorney is asking state investigators to look into a lab analyst to see if they broke the law.

A statement from the DA's office says they are beginning to look at both pending and previously resolved cases that "may have been impacted by this discovery"  Hunter Saenz (@Hunt_Saenz) March 27, 2024

In a news release, DA Spencer Merriweather said some procedural irregularities have been brought to their attention by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. Those irregularities have been found in analyses performed by one of CMPDs crime lab analysts.

9 Investigates: The Rescued

The DA didnt provide any more details about the allegations.

CMPD is investigating internally, the DA said, and will verify the scope and any further details about the situation. In the meantime, DA Merriweather has asked the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation to look into whether the analysts alleged actions have violated criminal law.

The DAs office is currently going through pending and closed cases that might be impacted. If needed, theyll let the corresponding defense counsels know about any new case information.

The analysts identity has not been released.

(WATCH BELOW: Inmate, detention officer recall life-saving moment in jail)




DA: Ex-Winthrop police lieutenant accused of child rape to be arraigned on additional charges

A former Winthrop police lieutenant accused of child rape is slated to be arraigned Thursday on additional charges, months after he allegedly confessed to the crimes in a cemetery on Christmas Night, authorities announced Wednesday.

James Feeley, 56, of Winthrop, is due to appear in Suffolk Superior Court to face charges of aggravated rape and seven counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14, according to the Suffolk District Attorneys Office.

Feeley was previously arraigned on fewer charges following his arrest and ordered held on $200,000 bail.

A criminal complaint obtained by Boston 25 at the time of his arrest alleged that Feeley did unlawfully have sexual intercourse or unnatural sexual intercourse with the victim and that the victim was under 12 years of age.

The Department of Children and Families confirmed with Boston 25 that Feeley is a foster parent for the state and says they are working with law enforcement in the investigation.

Feeley was initially placed on administrative leave but Winthrop Police Chief Terence M. Delehanty later announced that he was no longer a member of the Winthrop Police Department.

Delehanty told investigators that he was called to the Belle Isle Cemetery in Winthrop on Christmas Night, where he encountered Feeley, who had stated that he was really in a bad way, according to a police report.

While speaking with Delehanty, Feeley confessed to the rape and assault allegations as he stood near his parents grave site, the report stated. When Delehanty asked him why he was at the grave site, Feeley allegedly said, " What do you think?

In late January, authorities announced that they were investigating the death of a 2-year-old girl found unresponsive inside Feeleys home on Pleasant Street.

The initial investigation into the death of a 2-year-old in Winthrop today indicates no signs of foul play or physical trauma. We are awaiting an autopsy to determine the cause of death, the Suffolk DAs office said at the time.

An investigation into Feeley remains ongoing.

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
Nobel prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman has died, aged 90.

He became synonymous with behavioural economics, even though he never took a course of economics.

Kahneman wrote the best-selling book Thinking, Fast and Slow. It debunked the notion that people are rational beings who act out of self-interest - they act based on instinct, he argued.

His death was announced by Princeton University where he had been working since 1993.

"Danny was a giant in the field, a Princeton star, a brilliant man, and a great colleague and friend," said prof Eldar Shafir.

"Many areas in the social sciences simply have not been the same since he arrived on the scene. He will be greatly missed."

Kahneman was born in Tel Aviv, Israel, in 1934, and spent much of his early years in Nazi-occupied France, where his father worked as chief of research in a chemicals factory.

The family moved to what was then British-ruled Palestine in 1948, just before the creation of the state of Israel.

Kahneman graduated from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 1954, and went to the US four years later to begin a doctorate in psychology at the University of California Berkeley.

Kahneman returned to Jerusalem in 1961 to begin his academic career as a psychology lecturer, where he met Amos Tversky - a cognitive psychologist with whom he would go on to win the Nobel Prize for Economic Sciences in 2002.

His work with Tversky would go on to form the basis of the best-selling book Thinking, Fast and Slow, published in 2011.

The book explained the psychology of decision-making. It outlines two systems that drive the way humans think and make choices - the fast, intuitive, and emotional - and the slower, more deliberative, and more logical.

The book argued that most of the time, our fast, intuitive mind is in control, and takes charge of the decisions we make each day - rather than the deliberative, logical part of our minds - and this is where mistakes can creep in.
DARLINGTON, S.C. (AP)  Darlington Raceway will pay tribute to the late NASCAR Hall of Famer Cale Yarborough by displaying his No. 29 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass during its throwback weekend at the Goodyear 400 in May.

Yarborough, a native of Sardis, South Carolina, and three-time Cup champion, died on New Years Eve at age 84.

His car will be shown in the Darlington Raceway Stock Car Museum on the outside of the track nicknamed Too Tough to Tame, the latest honor there for Yarborough, who won five Southern 500s, which is second all-time to Jeff Gordons six victories. The NASCAR Cup Series garage there was dedicated to him in 2016.

The car going on display came from the Florence County Museum. Yarborough drove it in 26 races in 1987 and 1988, with a pair of top-five finishes at Pocono and Talladega.

First-year Darlington President Josh Harris said with Darlington as Yarboroughs home track, its an honor to commemorate his impact to our sport.

Yarborough won 83 races, with four Daytona 500 victories to go with his five at Darlington in the Southern 500. He won three NASCAR titles from 1976-78.

The annual throwback weekend, NASCARs tribute to its past, culminates with the Goodyear 400 on May 12.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
LAS VEGAS (KALS)  A judge set a new trial date for the accused murderer Robert Telles Tuesday despite the defendants desire to go to trial immediately.

Clark County District Court judge Michelle Leavitt pushed the trial - originally scheduled to take place March 18  to Aug. 5, due to a variety of electronic devices that needed to be reviewed.

Those devices include a 4.5-terabyte hard drive related to a police bribery investigation of Telles while he was still the elected public administrator in Clark County and phones and computers police seized from the victim, investigative reporter Jeff German, after German was found stabbed to death in September 2022.

Las Vegas politician accused of killing journalist was under surveillance in bribery scheme

The judge, prosecutors, and Telles lawyer, Robert Draskovich, discussed possible trial dates during Tuesdays hearing, and prosecutors said the July date didnt seem very realistic, so Leavitt set the trial for August.

I want to give you a realistic trial date, Leavitt said.

But Draskovich, who Telles recently hired after over a year of representing himself in court, said Telles did not want to wait any longer for the review of the devices. Telles, who has been held at Clark County detention Center since his arrest in 2022.

Las Vegas politician accused of killing journalist could take stand at trial amid bribery investigation

Lawyers for the Las Vegas Review-Journal, on Leavitts order, are overseeing the newspapers review of Germans devices. A review of one of Germans cell phones is complete, but there are five devices remaining. The newspapers lawyers and prosecutors agreed to a new protocol that would add a significant amount of staff

That may not be enough time, Joel Tasca, a lawyer for the Review-Journal, said.

Its important to have a trial date that were working towards, Leavitt responded.

Telles, 47, is due back in court on May 1.

German was found stabbed to death outside his home on Sept. 3, 2022. Detectives said Telles DNA was found under Germans fingernails and believe Telles targeted German because of articles he wrote about problems in the Clark County Public Administrators office, which Telles oversaw.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
(WHTM)  The U.S. Navy got started twice.

The first time was on October 13, 1775, when the Continental Congress passed a resolution calling for a swift sailing vessel, to carry ten carriage guns. This was the beginning of the Continental Navy. Over the course of the Revolutionary War, this force fielded about 65 ships, ranging from small gunboats to frigates. Of these, only about 11 survived until the end of the war. In 1785 Congress disbanded the Navy and sold off the remaining ships.

Which meant that on March 27, 1791, we had to start over from scratch.

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Even before the remnants of the Continental Navy were dispersed, the problems of not having a navy to protect our shipping were starting to show themselves. Of particular concern, the countries referred to in the history books of my youth as the Barbary Pirates, but now known more politely as the Barbary Powers. These were a group of countries along the southern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. They preyed upon unprotected American commerce, demanded ransoms for their American prisoners, and claimed the right to exact tribute from the United States.

Its Navy Day! Go see some ships!

The pressure to Do Something About This built upon Congress, and in March of 1794, they passed, and President George Washington signed, an Act to provide a Naval Armament., which authorized the building of four 44-gun frigates, and two 36-gun frigates.

The United States Navy was born. Again.

Then it nearly died. Again.

A peace treaty was signed with Algiers, one of the main Barbary Powers, and there was pressure to suspend the building of the frigates. Only three were finished; the 44-gun Constitution in Boston, the 44-Gun United States, and the 36-gun Constellation in Baltimore.

Early Naval Administration Under the Constitution

They were available just in time for the next international problem. Relations with France, our ally in the Revolutionary War, had deteriorated. France was at war with Britain, the U.S. was trying to stay neutral, and the French were not too happy about us not helping the country that helped us gain our independence. French privateers began seizing U.S. shipping in the Caribbean, grabbing more than 300 ships in 1796 and 1797. American naval vessels went on the hunt for privateers, but there were also clashes between American warships and French warships. This Quasi-war with France never had a specific beginning, but it ended with the Treaty of Mortefontaine in September of 1800.

The Quasi-War with France (1798  1801)

Then came renewed hostilities with the Barbary Powers, followed a few years later by the war of 1812. The U.S. Navy would have its ups and downs, sometimes being built up, sometimes neglected, but there was never another serious effort to abolish it.

USS Harrisburg naval ship expected to launch in 2024

Of the three original frigates, only the U.S.S. Constitution is left. She is the oldest commissioned naval vessel of any country still afloat, and may be seen in Boston, where she was built.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Casper, Wyoming (Chet Strange | Getty Images).

Another election day approaches. Another campaign season rattles and hums. The conspiracy theorists among us  from the mildly susceptible to the mortally addicted  are full of intrigue. Take your pick. Something new, like the oppositions alleged invention of Taylor Swift and her pending endorsement of them? Or something perennial, like the villainies of the Deep State?

Youve heard plenty about the Deep State  a cabal of policy-determining, policy-making, or policy-advocating  rogue bureaucrats, our chief Cassandra Donald Trump has called it. Faceless bureaucrats (who) target and persecute conservatives, Christians, or the lefts political enemies, which theyre doing now at a level that nobody can believe even possible.

Amid all the rattle and hum, its probably time to turn down the volume on the Deep State nonsense. That alone would be a step toward clarity as the elections loom. Lets take a moment to explain how the Deep State isnt.

It begins with a felt need. The urge, for example, to ensure that the food on our grocery shelves is safe and the drugs in our pharmacies are effective. Its an understandable objective, not least because history tells us that safe food and effective drugs are not foregone conclusions.

In Washington, D.C., the felt need becomes a statute when Congress passes legislation and the President signs it. In our example the legislation became the Pure Food and Drug Act, which nearly 120 years ago created the Food and Drug Administration. Now the felt need is an agencys obligation.

In pursuit of its mandate, the agency  lets stay with our example  conducts scientific research to determine which groceries and pharmaceuticals should be on our shelves and which should not. Afterward it writes regulations based on science. Theres little to see here. Its just an agency, following congressional mandates, which were themselves following public yearning.

The FDA is only one of more than 100 agencies created by Congress. Each one began with a felt need, which led to a statute, which created an agency that conducts research and writes regulations. We often complain about these regulations (which Ill get to in a moment) but they are, in fact, our main interaction with the government. Its not simply the FDA (which encourages confidence about groceries and pharmaceuticals). Its the IRS (which collects our taxes), the National Park Service (which manages Yellowstone Park), the post office (which delivers our mail), and the Federal Reserve (which prints our money and protects its value). Montanans are particularly aware of the Bureau of Land Management (especially if they graze cattle on public land) or the Fish and Wildlife Service (if they fish, hike, or hunt). And the states 95,000 military veterans are familiar with Veterans Affairs.

It isnt difficult to imagine a society without these regulations. A headline will do: Pittsburgh bridge should have been shut down years before. Or a prediction: Tsunami could kill thousands. Can they build an escape? Or, just a joke: Three congressmen walk into a bar. The whiskey is tainted and they die. And yet we often whine about government agencies and their onerous regulations. It comes, this whining, in several registers. Here are three:

Celebrity scofflaws. The famously infamous defy government regulations and, together with their followers, celebrate their defiance. The most prominent celebrity scofflaw of our times is probably Cliven Bundy, a Nevada-born rancher who grazed cattle on land leased from the Bureau of Land Management for decades while flouting grazing fees. Fees that, by 2014, exceeded $1 million. The BLM rationale was elementary: It was enforcing federal law. So was Bundys: The land belonged to sovereign citizens or to the sovereign state of Nevada, but not to the federal government and its proxy, the BLM. When Bundy ignored the fees and his cattle continued to graze the land, a notorious standoff ensued between his private militias and the feds. And, arguably, Bundys celebrity developed legs. Two years later his son, Ammon, led a similar standoff in Oregon. And nearly a decade later publishers from Fox News to The New York Times were linking the Bundys and their militias to the January 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Indeed, if anything, the celebrity scofflaw is one of the signal creatures of our time.

Shadow scofflaws . While Bundy and his ilk hog the limelight, shadow scofflaws scutter in darkness. By definition, theyre seldom seen. Occasionally, though, we get a glimpse. Think tax law flouters. The Internal Revenue Service estimates annual losses exceeding $600 billion through tax evasion; $150 billion a year from Americas wealthiest tax cheaters alone. Or think big-box wages. The National Labor Relations Board regulates labor-management issues to promote fair workplaces. Big-box stores  and online behemoths, too  manipulate those regulations to control labor costs. Nine decades ago the NLRB was using 40-hour workweek regulations to protect employees from overwork. Now its understood that part-time employment is a way to control labor costs. Adelle Waldman, author of Help Wanted, puts it this way: By employing two or more employees to work shorter hours, an employer can avoid paying for the benefits it would owe if it assigned all the hours to a single employee. Little wonder that more than 40 percent of Walmarts workforce is employed part-time. Other shadow scofflaws? The National Park Service regulates behavior in Yellowstone Park, but tourists continue to pet the bison and trespass the geysers. The Fish and Wildlife Service regulates behavior in the forest, but hunters and anglers continue to poach and angle.

Agenda benders. Nowadays, however, cadres of a very different stripe are abroad in the land. They arent scofflaws, neither celebrity nor shadow. Rather, theyre folks who abuse regulatory agencies to pursue an agenda of their own. Consider the current quarrel over mifepristone, a drug used in medical abortion procedures. The FDA approved mifepristone in 2000, after conducting tests and concluding that the pharmaceutical was safe and effective. Enter the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, a prolife organization established in 2022. In November that year the AHM and similar pro-life groups argued in court that FDA approval of mifepristone had been improper, that the FDA failed Americas women and girls when it chose politics over science and approved chemical abortion drugs for use in the United States. Earlier this year, a federal judge agreed with AHM and invalidated FDA approval of mifepristone. Inevitably, U.S. Food and Drug Administration vs. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine is pending in the U.S. Supreme Court. One person can be prolife, of course, even as the next person may be prochoice. Its difficult, though, to comprehend the fact that the quarrel isnt about the FDA: Its about abortion. AHM & Co. are stridently prochoice. Their enemy is abortion. Their weapon, ironically, is the FDA.

In 2023, the conservative Heritage Foundation published Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise, an 887-page document proposes the remaking of the executive branch during Donald Trumps second term in office. It is, the foundation says, a unified effort to be ready for the next conservative administration to govern at 12:00 noon, Jan. 20, 2025. The book doesnt actually attack the Deep State. As The New York Times puts it, for all the books rhetoric about the need to dismantle the administrative state  Mandate for Leadership is about capturing the administrative state, not unmaking it. The main conservative promise here is to wield the state as a tool for concentrating power and entrenching ideology.

Which brings us full circle to Donald Trumps complaint, quoted earlier: target(ing) and persecut(ing)  at a level that nobody can believe even possible. The ironic short form: If you hate the Deep State now, you aint seen nothin yet.



Bruce A. Lohof is a native of Montana. A former professor and a retired diplomat, he writes from Vienna.

The post How the Deep State isnt appeared first on Daily Montanan.
Ukraine's Defense Ministry established a new structural unit, the Logistics Support Planning Department, in an effort to create long-term procurement plans for the military, the Defense Ministry announced on March 26.

According to a press release, the department will develop annual procurement plans for the army to mitigate emergency requests for essentials like food, clothing, fuel, and logistics equipment.

Deputy Defense Minister Vitaliy Polovenko emphasized that this plan could minimize the number of urgent procurement requests made during wartime, which previously affected both the quality and price of acquired products.

"We understand that in wartime, we cannot completely avoid some urgent procurement requests. But we can reduce the number of such cases," Polovenko added.

Specialists will assess market conditions, monitor prices, and estimate costs to meet logistics command requirements, with procurement managed by the State Logistics Operator.

Over the past two years, Ukraine's Defense Ministry faced several corruption scandals involving the procurement of food products at inflated prices.

Similar embezzlement allegations arose after the Defense Ministry procured summer jackets instead of winter ones for inflated prices. Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov was forced to resign due to the scandal.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: At least 32 Ukrainian POWs executed in Russian captivity during winter, UN says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Democrats appear to be in panic mode as they scramble to save President Biden's re-election hopes from the threat of independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s campaign, a call hosted by the Democratic National Committee (DNC) revealed Tuesday afternoon.

The call with members of the press took place immediately after Kennedy announced tech entrepreneur Nicole Shanahan as his vice presidential running mate at a rally in Oakland, California, and included Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., Pennsylvania Lieutenant Gov. Austin Davis, and Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, who all fretted that Kennedy would likely ruin any chance of Biden being re-elected.

"We are doing everything in our power to get President Biden and Vice President Harris reelected. It's critical that we take seriously every possible obstacle to that goal. And let me be clear, that's exactly what Robert F. Kennedy is in this election. He's a spoiler," Davis said.

WHO IS NICOLE SHANAHAN? MEET THE WEALTHY ENTREPRENEUR RFK JR SELECTED AS HIS VP RUNNING MATE

McMorrow agreed, saying it was important for her to be on the call to share "how horrifying this campaign is and what it really means on the ground for Michigan."

"Him being in the race means that there is a greater likelihood that Donald Trump will become president again," she said.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Earlier in the call, Garcia railed against Kennedy as "a tin foil hat conspiracy theorist," referencing his past skepticism toward vaccines, particularly those aimed at combating the COVID-19 pandemic. He also accused Shanahan of holding an "anti-health agenda" despite a large portion of her introduction as Kennedy's running mate being focused on Americans' health, especially that of children.

"He's turning to Trump mega-donors to really support this, really, spoiler campaign. I think he's likely interested in trying to get Donald Trump elected. Maybe that's what this is about. And many of us are not sure, but he is someone that should not be taken seriously as a serious person. I mean, certainly his campaign is quite dangerous," Garcia said, appearing to launch his own conspiracy theory about Kennedy's candidacy.

His reference to former President Donald Trump's donors supporting Kennedy was likely referring to Timothy Mellon, the heir to the Mellon banking fortune who has given millions to outside groups supporting Trump's third run for the presidency. Last year, Mellon donated millions to American Values 2024, a super PAC backing Kennedy.

DEMOCRATS RIPPED FOR TRYING TO KILL DEMOCRACY WITH EFFORT TO PROTECT BIDEN, SILENCE THIRD-PARTY CANDIDATES

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump arrives for an election-night watch party at Mar-a-Lago on March 5, 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Garcia continued to harp on Kennedy's past positions on vaccines, referring to his bid for the presidency as "disgusting and shameful," and calling on him to end his "horrific campaign."

Davis also focused heavily on Kennedy's past vaccine rhetoric, but repeated Garcia's theories on the origination of Kennedy's campaign.

"The truth is that he was drafted into this race by Donald Trump's top supporters and is being financed in this race by Trump's largest donor. That isn't merely a coincidence," he said. "He has no realistic path to victory in Pennsylvania. All he can do is take away votes from President Biden and make it easier for Donald Trump to win, and we simply can't afford to let that happen."

Davis went on to accuse Kennedy of "deliberately" targeting Black people "with dangerous lies and conspiracy theories" about vaccines, and claimed that any suggestion he was an ally of the Black community was "frankly outrageous, and it's offensive."

McMorrow later added, "We cannot afford Donald Trump to be back in the White House, which is what is going to happen if people don't see RFK for what he actually is, which is Donald Trump with a Kennedy name slapped on him."

WATCH: DEMOCRAT FRONTRUNNER IN TIGHT SENATE RACE DROPS RACIAL SLUR DURING HOUSE HEARING

People wait for the arrival of Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as he prepares to announce his pick for running mate at the Henry J. Kaiser Event Center on March 26, 2024 in Oakland, California.

She went on to fret that Kennedy  like Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein in 2016  could spoil a key swing state like Michigan for Biden.

"You don't need significant support to throw an election to Donald Trump. We saw this play out in 2016 where Jill Stein got 50,000 votes and Hillary Clinton lost by 10,000 votes in Michigan. So it is this type of a campaign  and Kennedy should be smart enough to know better. But I don't think he does. I think his ego is in the way," she said.

Earlier this month, the DNC launched an effort to silence the threat from third-party candidates, namely Kennedy, in the form of a team that is expected to actively combat them with legal challenges and opposition research.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., partner with Morgan & Morgan PA and 2024 independent presidential candidate, right, and Nicole Shanahan, 2024 independent vice presidential candidate, during a campaign event in Oakland, California, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

Democrat strategist Lis Smith, who helped lead Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg's 2020 campaign and is consulting for the DNC on the project, set off a storm of X posts and reposts following Kennedy's Tuesday speech, referring to the candidate as a "spoiler," and sharing a video where she accused Shanahan of buying her inclusion on the ticket by donating millions to boost Kennedy before she was named his running mate.

The Democrats weren't the only ones to go after Kennedy on Tuesday. The Trump-aligned super PAC Make America Great Again, Inc. released a statement that read, "Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a far-left radical that supports reparations, backs the Green New Deal, and wants to ban fracking. It's no surprise he would pick a Biden donor leftist as his running mate."

The group slamming Shanahan as a Biden donor was in reference to her backing of the president in his 2020 bid for the White House before flipping to Kennedy this election cycle.

Recent polls have shown Kennedy, Stein and independent candidate Dr. Cornel West would pull significant support from both Biden and Trump, but with Biden appearing to be at risk of losing the most potential votes.

The latest RealClearPolitics average of polls has Kennedy reaching 15% in a three-way race against Biden and Trump. The average shows Trump ahead of Biden by 4 points.

A five-way race including West and Stein has Kennedy's support at 11%, with Trump having a 2-point advantage over Biden.

Get the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews and more at our Fox News Digital election hub.





Original article source: Dem campaign call reveals panic mode over RFK Jr.'s White House bid, scramble to save Biden re-election hopes
MADISON, Ala. (WHNT)  District 10 voters elected Democrat Marilyn Lands to the Alabama House of Representatives on Tuesday.

Throughout her campaign, Lands said she was prepared to support womens reproductive rights, including both access to abortion care and infertility treatments.

Results: Presidential nominations, number of statewide races on Primary Election ballot

Its a victory for women, and its a victory for families, Lands said. We are sending a message to Montgomery and across the country that Alabama is going to move forward.

Lands won 62.31% of the vote with 100% of precincts reporting, according to results provided by the Alabama Secretary of States office. Her opponent, Republican Teddy Powell, received 37.50% of the vote.

Upon her arrival in the state capital, Lands said she is going to work to repeal Alabamas no exception ban on abortion.

I want to protect IVF and contraception, Lands said.  I also want to be a champion for healthcare and mental healthcare.

Lands, a lifelong resident of Huntsville, has worked in business administration. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor who has previously collaborated to pass mental health legislation supporting children in the state.

I really feel like we need somebody down in Montgomery who understands mental health issues, Lands said.

She said the next step is expanding Medicaid and working to improve medical access in rural communities.

Alabama is changing, North Alabama in particular, but other parts too, Lands said. I think were ready for something different. Were tired of Alabama being 40th and 50th for key metrics. We can do better. We are better.

Lands said she is ready to support education and economic development opportunities.

Alabama Primary Election Results  March 5, 2024

The special election was necessary to replace former representative David Cole, who resigned his seat after pleading guilty to voter fraud in October.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
The GOPs assault on reproductive rights isnt too popular  not even in Alabama.

Democrat Marilyn Lands won a special election for a state House seat on Tuesday, flipping a district that a Republican had previously controlled. Lands ran largely on reproductive rights, particularly as a proponent of in vitro fertilization in the wake of the Alabama Supreme Court ruling that embryos created during IVF treatments are people. The ruling sparked nationwide condemnation of the Republican Partys attacks on reproductive care and led at least one local hospital to shut down IVF treatment over fears of prosecution.

The seat Lands won on Tuesday was up for grabs after Republican state Rep. David Cole resigned before pleading guilty to a voter-fraud charge. Lands opposition to the states abortion ban was a large part of her campaign, as was the state Supreme Courts IVF decision last month. Our legislature must repeal Alabamas no-exceptions abortion ban, fully restore access to IVF, and protect the right to contraception, Lands said on Tuesday, adding that her victory sends a clear message to state legislators.

The Biden campaign agrees. Tonights results should serve as a major warning sign for Trump: Voters will not stand for his attacks on reproductive health care, campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said in a statement. This November will be no different.

Conservatives have been doing all they can to further crack down on abortion since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. The latest front of the battle is the abortion pill mifepristone, with the Supreme Court hearing arguments on Tuesday for a case aimed at restricting access to the most common form of abortion in the U.S. The justices seemed dubious of doing so, but Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas both asked questions about the Comstock Act, an 1873 law that could effectively ban abortion nationwide.

The biggest threat to reproductive rights, however, may be Trump. Hes long bragged about installing the justices that helped overturn Roe and has lately been talking about pushing for a 15-week federal abortion ban should he retake the White House. The number 15 is mentioned. I havent agreed to any number. Im going to see, he said in an interview earlier this month. We want to take an issue that was very polarizing and get it settled and solved so everybody can be happy.

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Democratic candidate Marilyn Lands has won the special election in Alabama state House District 10, according to a projection from Decision Desk HQ.

Lands, a licensed professional counselor, beat Republican Teddy Powell, a Madison City Council member, to fill the seat. The spot was vacated after former state Rep. David Cole (R) pleaded guilty last year to voter fraud.

The Huntsville-area race was closely watched because Lands leaned into the issues of abortion and in vitro fertilization (IVF) in a special election that came one month after the state saw IVF services temporarily paused after the state Supreme Court ruled frozen embryos were children.

Lawmakers quickly passed legislation afterward to address civil and criminal liability for IVF providers, prompting some health care providers to resume services.

Today, Alabama women and families sent a clear message that will be heard in Montgomery and across the nation. Our legislature must repeal Alabamas no-exceptions abortion ban, fully restore access to IVF, and protect the right to contraception, Lands said in a statement.

To my campaign team and volunteers, both in this run and in my last one, I want you to know how much your support means to me.

The state House district is an unusual one, with purplish political leanings in a largely red state. Political observers tuned into the race to see if the issues of IVF and abortion might sway voters in the unique Alabama district.

Heather Williams, president of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC), called the results a political earthquake in a statement.

This special election is a harbinger of things to come  Republicans across the country have been put on notice that there are consequences to attacks on IVF  from the bluest blue state to the reddest red, voters are choosing to fight for their fundamental freedoms by electing Democrats across the country, she added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A special election in Alabama is the latest sign for Democrats that reproductive rights are a major motivating force for voters ahead of this falls elections.

Democrat Marilyn Lands beat Republican Teddy Powell in a special election for a state House seat in the Yellowhammer State on Tuesday, after she leaned into the issues of abortion and in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Landss landslide win in the purple district underscores the political staying power of reproductive rights as an election issue, one that could make the difference as Democratic control of Congress and the White House falls to a handful of states.

I feel like [reproductive health care] was a very powerful motivator to get people out to vote in this election, Lands told The Hill.

Lands, a licensed professional counselor who has also worked in Republican politics, defeated Powell, a Madison City Council member, for the special election in state House District 10, in the Huntsville area.

Lands spotlighted IVF and abortion in her ads, including recounting her own personal experience with abortion. Meanwhile, Powell leaned into issues like the economy and infrastructure.

Marilyn Lands, a Democrat who ran a campaign for an Alabama state house seat centered on reproductive rights, on is photographed March 26, 2024. Lands defeated Republican Teddy Powell to win the open legislative seat, according to unofficial returns March 26. Powell, a member of the Madison City Council, issued a statement conceding the race and congratulating Lands on her victory. ( Marilyn Lands via AP)

Reproductive issues became particularly relevant as the race came against the backdrop of an Alabama court ruling last month that prompted IVF services to be temporarily paused.

The Alabama Supreme Courts ruling in February, which found frozen embryos could be considered children under state law, set off a national furor around IVF access as providers across the state halted fertility services because of concerns about litigation.

Amid a chorus of criticism, including from many Republican leaders, the states GOP-controlled Legislature hastily drew up and passed legislation protecting IVF providers from prosecution and legal action. But fertility groups argued the bill didnt go far enough, as it did nothing to temper the high courts ruling.

Ahead of the election, some Republican strategists argued abortion and IVF were separate issues.

Nonetheless, Lands beat Powell by a whopping 25 points in a district that just barely went for former President Trump in 2020.

Krishana Davis, a senior vice president at the Democratic consulting firm Precision Strategies, said one thing Lands did right in her campaign was be unapologetic about her stance on reproductive rights.

So many times we see candidates who will give very top-level language, they kind of skirt the issue, they give a lot of innuendos about what they mean, said Davis, who noted Lands instead was very vocal about her position.

Davis argued other Democratic candidates could take Landss win as a sign they too can be forthright in their stance on reproductive rights.

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The Alabama special election is also not the first to underscore the salience of reproductive rights. During last Novembers Virginia state legislative races, Democrats leaned into the issue of abortion, which allowed them to keep their edge in the state Senate and flip the state House.

In special elections like this, in which theres nothing else to turn out your vote, its much more about identifying your voters and then inspiring them to turn out, Republican strategist Angi Horn said. And I mean, nobody can question the results that her campaign absolutely identified their voters and then inspired them to turn out.

If I was a Democrat in Alabama, and I saw this happen, sure  I would try to copy it, do the same thing  I think it would be ridiculous not to, Horn added.

But the GOP strategist also cautioned about extrapolating too much from the special election in terms of what it means for the states politics.

I think its important to not try to paint this as what Alabama is or the state of Alabama for two reasons: One, its a special election, and two, it is a very  going into a very purple district, she said, noting that Landss strategy likely would not have worked in southeast Alabama, for example.

Though Alabama is extremely unlikely to turn blue in a presidential election anytime soon, Landss victory suggests reproductive issues can still make the difference in critical swing seats.

The salience of reproductive rights is particularly important given that a handful of swing states will determine who wins the White House and control of Congress in November.

According to KFF pollster Ashley Kirzinger, 12 percent of voters nationally have said abortion is an important issue for them  lower than during the midterms, when about a quarter said it was the most important issue to them. When it comes to motivating issues, voters generally dont pay close attention to court battles, according to Kirzinger, but the aftereffects do catch the publics attention.

I think when it starts to motivate voters and theyre starting to pay more attention is when some sort of right or access is taken away, Kirzinger said. We didnt specifically ask about IVF, but I think what we saw was the attention around that Alabama Supreme Court decision.

Kirzinger added the view that voters are only staunchly for or against abortion is misleading. She noted there is a segment of Republicans who supported overturning Roe but dont believe in banning all abortions, with about 8 in 10 saying they want abortion protected for patients experiencing pregnancy-related emergencies.

There is nuance within the Republican attitude on abortion. And I think thats always important to point out, she said.

Reproductive-rights advocates have previously scored wins in purple and red states. Months after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Kansans rejected a ballot measure that would have given the state Legislature the authority to restrict abortion.

Voters in Michigan and Ohio passed ballot measures to enshrine abortion protections within their state constitutions. Voters had also earlier handily defeated a separate ballot measure in Ohio that would have sought to raise the threshold to amend the state constitution, a move largely seen as a way to thwart reproductive-right advocates from passing the abortion ballot measure that fall.

Abhi Rahman, communications director for the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, noted Michigan will be holding several special elections next month in the suburbs of Detroit, which will determine control of the state House. He noted the Democrats running in those races are also spotlighting reproductive rights.

During a press briefing with the reproductive rights PAC EMILYs List in January, Biden-Harris 2024 campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said their reelection bids strategy on reproductive rights would highlight Trumps anti-abortion stance.

The campaign did just that following Landss win on Tuesday, with Chavez Rodriguez saying in a statement, Trump overturned Roe v. Wade, paving the way for attacks on womens freedoms like we saw in Alabama  now hes running to ban abortion and gut access to IVF nationwide. Tonights results should serve as a major warning sign for Trump.

Davis, from Precision Strategies, said that while highlighting potential Republican action on abortion in the future is fair, Democratic candidates should focus on their own personal position instead of what their opponent is running on.

Candidates need to define themselves very clearly about who they are. Because, also, weve all been very clear who Trump is, Davis said. That has been overly saturated in media across social media online.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Democrats on the House Oversight Committee are calling for a hearing into what they call the foreign influence peddling of former president Donald Trumps son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

The top Democrat on the Committee, Maryland representative and ranking member Jamie Raskin, and California representative Robert Garcia pushed chair James Comer, Republican of Kentucky, in a letter on Tuesday to convene a hearing regarding Jared Kushners apparent influence peddling and quid pro quo deals involving investments in exchange for official actions and to examine the resulting threats to our national security.

Mr Comer has led the so-far fruitless impeachment investigation into President Joe Biden, which has focused heavily on his son Hunter Biden, but no wrongdoing on the part of the president has yet been established.

While Hunter Biden made millions in foreign business dealings, the Republicans have failed to connect the president to those dealings, beyond some fleeting greetings with business associates.

Mr Raskin and Mr Garcia cited recent New York Times reporting that Mr Kushner has been looking to make real estate deals with foreign governments via contacts he established during his time as an adviser in the Trump administration, even as his father-in-law makes another run for the top job.

Mr Comer has said previously that Mr Kushner crossed an ethical line when he made a deal for large Saudi investments just after departing from the White House.

Unlike the Bidens, Jared Kushner has a legitimate business and has a career as a business executive that predates Donald Trumps political career, Mr Comer said in a statement, according to HuffPost. Democrats latest letter is part of their playbook to shield President Biden from oversight.

Mr Comer has argued that Joe Biden used his time in government, including as vice-president, to make large amounts of money by letting family members use their well-known last name to make significant deals.

But Mr Trump owned businesses that got millions from foreign governments during his time as president. Mr Trump owned a hotel in downtown Washington DC between the White House and the US Capitol where foreign officials would stay as an indirect way of paying tribute to Mr Trump. Some have argued this violated the ban on US officials receiving foreign payments.

The New York Times reported on 15 March that Mr Kushner was getting close to finalising real estate deals in Albania and Serbia, partly using contacts he appeared to have made during his time in the White House.

Mr Kushner said he had been working with Richard Grenell, who was the acting director of national intelligence, ambassador to Germany, and the special envoy to the Balkans during the Trump administration.

No one is giving me deals, Mr Kushner told The New York Times earlier this month. I operate fairly meticulously, and these investments will create a lot of value for the local communities, our partners and our investors.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, March 27. The Belarusian Universal Commodity Exchange plans to increase trade turnover with Turkmenistan this year by realizing the export potential of the exchange platform, mainly due to lumber, dairy products, and sugar, Trend reports.

According to the official source, a delegation of the department of foreign economic activity of the Belarusian Universal Commodity Exchange visited Ashgabat city in this regard.

Within the framework of the visit, organized by the Minsk branch of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry together with the Embassy of Belarus in Turkmenistan, a number of meetings were held with potential importers of the timber industry and food industry enterprises of Turkmenistan.

Furthermore, representatives of the Belarusian exchange visited the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan, where they saw session stock trading and also held talks with its management.

As a result of the negotiations, an agreement was reached on the exchange of experience, technologies, and methodological developments in the field of electronic exchange trading.

At the same time, the issue of the possibility of mutual accreditation of stockbrokers on both sides to participate in trading on mutual terms remained under consideration.

Meanwhile, at the moment, trade cooperation between Belarus and Turkmenistan continues to show steady growth, reflecting both countries as reliable and important partners for each other, within which the emphasis is on the development of trade in petroleum, chemical, metallurgical, and agricultural products.

Both sides are actively looking for new opportunities to expand the product range as well as deepen investment cooperation in various sectors of the economy.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
DENVER (KDVR)  The Denver City Council approved a bill that would change what drinks are offered as a first choice with kids meals across the city.

The measure will require water or unflavored milk and milk substitutes (almond and oat milk) to be listed as the free option in a kids meal.

The main sponsors of the bill are Councilmembers Chris Hinds and Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez.

Restaurants wont be required to get rid of sugary drinks like soda and juice, they just wont offer it as the free option to be bundled in with a kids meal.

Denver car theft victim takes matters into her own hands

Here is an example of what a menu before and after would look like, per the sponsors.

According to Robert Austin with the City and County of Denver, the sugary drink measure passed as part of the councils consent agenda, which passed a bunch of things together. It was a unanimous vote.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
DENVER (KDVR)  The city and county of Denver announced Tuesday that it had secured $2.65 million in federal funding for community projects.

This includes $1 million that will go to a new recreation center in Denvers Westwood neighborhood.

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The following are the four projects the $2.65 million will go to:

$1 million to a new recreation center in Westwood. An additional $37.5 million from the Elevate Denver bond program will be used to fund the project.

$850,000 for a new fire station in northeast Denver on Tower Road between 56th Avenue and Pena Boulevard. An additional $13.2 million from the Elevate Denver bond program will be used to fund the project.

$300,000 for a master electrification plan at Denver International Airport to help the airport reduce emissions by increasing the use of cleaner forms of energy.

$500,000 for an environmental remediation demonstration project at the former Denver Public Schools bus barn. It operated as an aggregate quarry and historic urban fill site for decades.

The funding was included as part of the federal government spending package passed and signed into law earlier in March.

Other Denver-area projects also received funding through the package, according to U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
The headmaster at a high school in eastern Paris quit after receiving death threats online (STEPHANE DE SAKUTIN)

French politicians from across the political spectrum Wednesday denounced what they called an "Islamist" attack on education after a school principal resigned following death threats over a Muslim veil.

The headmaster at a high school and college in eastern Paris quit after receiving death threats online following an altercation with a student, officials told AFP on Tuesday.

In late February, he had asked three students to remove their headscarves on school premises, but one of them refused and an altercation ensued, according to prosecutors. He later received death threats online.

According to a school letter sent to teachers, pupils and parents on Tuesday, the principal stood down for "security reasons", while education officials said he had taken "early retirement".

"It's a disgrace," Bruno Retailleau, the head of the right-wing Republicans faction in the Senate upper house, said on X (former Twitter) on Wednesday.

"We can't accept it," Boris Vallaud, the head of the Socialist deputies in the National Assembly lower house, told television broadcaster France 2, calling the incident "a collective failure".

Marion Marechal, the granddaughter of far-right patriarch Jean-Marie Le Pen and a popular far-right politician herself, spoke on Sud Radio of a "defeat of the state" in the face of "the Islamist gangrene".

Maud Bregeon, a lawmaker with President Emmanuel Macron's Renaissance party, also took aim at "an Islamist movement".

"Authority lies with school heads and teachers, and we have a duty to support this educational community," Bregeon said.

A 26-year-old man has been arrested for making death threats against the principal on the internet. He is due to stand trial in April.

France is home to Europe's largest Muslim community.

In 2004, authorities banned school children from wearing "signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation" such as headscarves, turbans or kippas on the basis of the country's secular laws which are meant to guarantee neutrality in state institutions.

gbh-lum-as/ah/imm
A man accused of acting suspiciously outside a church is now facing more charges after deputies say he tried to kick them - and tried to kick out a patrol car window.

Deputies say they spotted a man acting suspiciously outside a church.

They had gotten recent reports of vandalism at churches.

Watch: Flagler County deputies capture suspect in violent Texas jewelry store robbery

When they tried to talk to the man, he pretended to be asleep.

Deputies said he then became belligerent and started kicking.

Watch: Crews to begin new seawall construction along A1A in Flagler County

He was arrested for loitering and prowling and for resisting an officer with violence.

This is a perfect example of the reality and verbal abuse deputies have to face while doing their job, and how our deputies are trained to remain calm under pressure even in the face of threats and to de-escalate situations, said Florida County Sheriff Rick Staly. Nobody likes to be arrested but its important to remember their job is to enforce the law that were violated and be proactive to keep our community safe from people like this.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Central Campus is seen on April 29, 2021 in Des Moines.

Des Moines Public Schools' taxpayers will see their tax rate drop during the 2024-25 school year.

The Des Moines School Board approved a proposed tax rate of $14.70 per $1,000 of valuation on a $100,000 home during a special board meeting Tuesday. The rate is down from the previous year's tax rate of $15.15 per $1,000 of valuation on a home.

School district taxes will drop from $828 to $682 on a $100,000 home, in large part because of increasing property values, said Shashank Aurora, the district's chief financial officer, in an interview.

The rate could change before the budget is finalized if a 2.5% increase in school state aid, known as SSA, is signed off of by Gov. Kim Reynolds. The House and Senate have both approve a 2.5% SSA increase.

If that holds, the board will likely approve a tax rate closer to $14.67 per $1,000 when the budget is approved next month, Aurora said.

Des Moines Public School officials have not released the total overall budget for the 2024-25 school year.

Related: Iowans are getting new property tax explainers in the mail. Here's how to decipher them:

How much does DMPS need to cut from its budget?

Des Moines schools' staff originally calculated the proposed 2024-25 budget using a 2% SSA increase and were planning to make $14 million in cuts ahead of the upcoming school year.

Those cuts included 10 full-time equivalent positions from district high schools and 4% of full-time positions from across the district totaling about $3 million.

If Reynolds does sign off on the 2.5% increase, officials will only need to cut $9.75 million after the staffing reductions, Aurora said in an interview.

Previously, officials cut $12.2 million ahead of the 2023-24 school year and $9.9 million going into the 2022-23 school year.

Related: Des Moines Public Schools says it must slash $14 million from coming budget. What gets cut?

Will DMPS close buildings to save money?

BBS Architects is currently conducting a facility condition assessment. The report is expected to be released in May, according to board documents.

The facility study is not expected to impact the budget until the 2025-26 school year.

Will the district receive any additional state funds?

The district is expected to receive $1.6 million from the state for the 1,381 students whose parents chose for them to attend private school using the education savings accounts program.

The funds are meant to help school districts make up for state aid they will lose if a child attends a private school.

Related: How Iowa lawmakers' funding delay has hurt school districts' budget planning, union talks

When will DMPS adopt a budget and how can I learn more?

The board is scheduled to adopt the final budget at its April 16 meeting.

Coming public budget presentations:

April 1, 6-7:30 p.m. North High School, 501 Holcomb Ave., library.

April 3, 7:159 a.m., East High School, 815 E. 13th St., library.

April 4, 67:30 p.m. Hoover High School, 4800 NW Aurora Ave., library presented in Swahili.

April 5, 7:159 a.m. Lincoln High School, 2600 SW Ninth St., counseling/conference center.

April 8, 67:30 p.m. Hoover High School, 4800 NW Aurora Ave., library.

April 9, 6 7:30 pm Roosevelt High School, 4419 Center St., small gymnasium.

April 10, virtual presentation recorded.

April 11, 67:30 p.m., Central Campus,1800 Grand Ave., board room, presented in Spanish.

Samantha Hernandez covers education for the Register. Reach her at (515) 851-0982 or svhernandez@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @svhernandez or Facebook at facebook.com/svhernandezreporter.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Des Moines school board approves reduced tax rate
Editors note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal.

Orlando entrepreneur Craig Mateer has been appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, according to a March 26 Governors Press Office news release.

The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

The news release did not specify Mateers role with the district, although the district website shows the board chair position as open. On March 27, Mateer voted as a board member during the districts meeting. At that same meeting, Charbel Barakat was referred to as the boards chair several times by board members and the districts legal counsel.

Read: DeSantis vs. Disney: Settlement reached in lawsuit

Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journals website.

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The feud between Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Walt Disney World, sparked by criticism of the states so-called Dont Say Gay law, has ended after nearly two years.

On Wednesday morning, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District approved a settlement between Allies of Ron DeSantis and Disney. The litigation first began when Disney criticised the 2022 Dont Say Gay law, which banned classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades.

The Florida governor, who had championed the law, subsequently took control of the district that governs Walt Disney World thanks to the states Republican-controlled legislature. He then appointed his own board of supervisors. The district, which Disney supporters previously controlled, provides municipal services  such as firefighting  to the park.

Disney sued, claiming their free speech rights were violated for speaking out against the law  but a federal judge threw out their case in January. US District Judge Allen Winsor determined that Disney lacks standing to sue the government, arguing that a plaintiff cannot bring a free speech challenge by claiming that the lawmakers who passed it acted with a constitutionally impermissible purpose.

Mr DeSantis praised the settlement during a Wednesday afternoon press conference.

I think that theres a desire to move forward, he told reporters. I think that [Disney has] opportunities to expand their footprint and to continue to attract visitors, and those things, when there, can coincide with the states interest. We think that thatd be good, so I think the board will work with them.

Disney also expressed hope that this settlement could lead to an improved relationship with the districts leadership.

This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the state, Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World, said.

But as this case comes to a close, Florida laws targeting the LGBT+ community are only ramping up.

After the Dont Say Gay law passed in 2022, reporters from The Independent and other outlets found that Disney entities and affiliates contributed tens of thousands of dollars to the GOP lawmakers who championed the law, despite the companys history of LGBTQ+ advocacy.

Last year, Mr DeSantis signed several anti-LGBT+ bills into law. That new set of laws, among other things, restricts gender-affirming care for minors, threatens drag shows, forbids people from using bathrooms that match their gender identity and prevents people from using their chosen pronouns at schools

That same year, lawmakers passed laws requiring books that are considered pornography, are deemed harmful to minors or contain sexual content to be pulled from school shelves. Some school districts have also used the Dont Say Gay law to remove books with LGBTQ+ characters or content.

According to PEN America, 40 per cent of all book bans in the US took place in Florida in the 2022-2023 school year, with entities throughout the state banning a total of 1,406 books.
It will likely take weeks or months for federal investigators to sort out exactly what led to a container ship striking and collapsing the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on Tuesday. But shipping industry experts, engineers and law enforcement have started to glean information from videos, photos and accounts of the disaster.

The accident appears to have resulted from a perfect storm of mechanical failures, dated bridge design, and unfortunate timing and location.

The Dali, a 948-foot, Singapore-flagged container ship, was navigating out of the Port of Baltimore when it experienced a power issue and momentary loss of propulsion. Apparent attempts to slow the vessel proved unsuccessful. At 1:28 a.m., the Dali plowed into one of the bridges two main piers, sending almost all of the 1.6-mile long structure plummeting into the Patapsco River.

Approximately 90 seconds before the collision, the Dalis crew sent out a mayday call which allowed authorities to halt traffic onto the bridge. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said during a press conference Tuesday that the distress call and quick action of law enforcement undoubtedly saved lives. But eight construction workers were unable to escape the bridge before it crumbled. Two were rescued from the water and six others are presumed dead.

Contrary to myriad conspiracy theories circulating in right-wing circles, federal and local officials have stressed there is no evidence of foul play. Maritime experts have described the incident as a freak accident.

Losing power while youre approaching a bridge would be just about the worst case scenario, Michael Kucharski, a former maritime investigator at the National Transportation Safety Board, told CBS News.

BREAKING: Ship collides with Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, causing it to collapse pic.twitter.com/OcOrSjOCRn  BNO News (@BNONews) March 26, 2024

Video of the incident shows the ships lights go dark as it approaches the bridge. The vessel then steadily veers to its starboard side before making direct contact with one of the bridges southern support structures.

Everything that could have went wrong did go wrong, and the place, unfortunately, was right by the bridge, Kevin Calnan, a maritime transportation professor at California State University Maritime Academy, told The Independent. As far as engine failures and situations like this, it is rare. And then its exceptionally more rare for this to be in a port area.

When the failure occurred, the Dali was operating on its own. Two tugboats had helped guide the ship out of the dock, but did not escort it out of the harbor, The Baltimore Banner reported. Experts told the outlet it is unclear if escort tugboats would have been able to intervene and prevent the disaster.

After losing propulsion, the crew dropped the ships anchors in a desperate attempt to slow the vessel, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore said in a statement. Clay Diamond, the head of the American Pilots Association, a trade organization for maritime pilots, told The Associated Press that the ships captain also ordered that the rudder be turned hard to port to keep the ship from turning to the right.

Kyle McAvoy, a maritime safety expert with Robson Forensic and a retired Coast Guard captain, refrained from speculating about what led to the disaster, noting that the federal investigation would dig into any mechanical or operational failures. But he said propulsion failures do occur on giant cargo vessels.

There are steps that professional mariners will take as a result of these things, he said. Its a very complicated issue. Basically most ships of this size, theyre like moving cities on the water. You have all kinds of machinery thats driving your propulsion systems, machinery driving your electrical systems. And you have to maintain a plant to do that.

In the event of power or engine loss, McAvoy said there are operational steps that the crew takes to address the issue, including dropping anchors.

How that all is wrapped up into this situation is what the investigative process will have to pick apart, he said.

Large cargo vessels are often equipped with redundant systems, meaning there would have likely been multiple failures that caused the ship to lose control, two maritime experts told The Baltimore Banner. Captain Jeffrey Spillane, the dean of the School of Maritime Education and Training at State University of New York System Maritime, told the publication that the plume of black smoke seen billowing from the ship ahead of the collision indicates it experienced a catastrophic issue.

Thats a huge, glaring problem that tells me there was a lot more going on, Spillane said. There should have been multiple redundancies going on to prevent that.

Experts have also zeroed in on the vulnerability of the nearly 50-year-old Key Bridge. Unlike more modern bridges, the Key was not built to withstand vessel collisions, as Matt Dursh, a bridge engineer, pointed out in a series of posts to X, formerly Twitter. He noted that the Key was similar to the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge over Tampa Bay, Florida, which collapsed in 1980 after being struck by a freight ship.

terrible to see a bridge collapse.



we design modern bridges for vessel collision, but this one was built in the 70s before standards changed.



very similar bridge to Sunshine Skyway collapse in the 80s, which is what changed the design codes.



pic.twitter.com/BADKG4Ghky  Matt Dursh (@MattDursh) March 26, 2024

One way to prevent such catastrophic events is to construct barriers, known as dolphins, that protect a bridges piers.

This is a mass of rock, sand, and steel that serves to stop the vessel before it makes contact with the bridge, Dursh wrote, adding that he expects the bridge replacement in Baltimore will feature this defensive infrastructure.

Tuesdays disaster has already launched a debate about what should be done to better safeguard bridge infrastructure from similar accidents. Retrofitting existing bridges with concrete dolphin structures is costly: One such collision prevention system being built at the Delaware Memorial Bridge in Wilmington has a price tag of $93 million.

At a White House press conference Wednesday, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said the federal investigation is likely to help answer whether any design feature now known would have made a difference in this case.

Its difficult to overstate the impact of this collision, he said. Its not just as big as a building, its really as big as a block. One hundred thousand tons all going into this pier all at once.

The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the Baltimore bridge collapse. At a press conference Tuesday, NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said that the probe will be very broad and include reviewing the ships data recorders, and collecting information about the vessels operations and safety history, the vessel owners company policies, bridge construction and protective structures, and more.

The NTSB doesnt speculate, we provide facts, she said. So there isnt a lot we can share right now.

Asked about the NTSB investigation on Wednesday, Buttigieg said, Part of whats being debated is whether any design feature now known would have made a difference in this case.

Related...
On Sunday, Timothy Carter, 28, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder after he allegedly stabbed a Black man as he was working at a Walmart in Rockford, Ill., according to FOX 2 Now.



Jason Jenkins, an 18-year-old student at Auburn High School in Rockford, was killed in the attack.

Surveillance video at the Walmart shows Carter, who is white, grabbing two knives from shelves and walking around the store while giving all of the African American people dirty looks, according to FOX 2 Now.

When Carter saw Jenkins, he approached him from behind and stabbed him in the lower back. A witness claimed to hear Jenkins screaming for help as he was being attacked. He died from his injuries at a nearby hospital later that day.

A witness who was at the store during the attack told local police that she heard Carter yell a racial epithet after he stabbed the teenager, but there are no details on what exactly Carter said.

More from FOX 2 Now:

According to the arrest report, Carter told authorities that he was having a mental health crisis earlier that afternoon and sought mental health treatment from Rosecrance When staff allegedly denied him treatment, Carter said he would kill himself, prompting the staff to transport him to UW Health Swedish American. Carter told police he did not receive mental health treatment and was released.

Its unclear if this case will be tried as a hate crime.

In a statement, Walmart gave its condolences to Jenkins, stating, Were devastated to learn that one of our associates has died following a violent attack inside our Rockford, IL store. We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and will continue providing our associates with the support they need.

Actions like this are inexcusable, and were grateful to law enforcement for their swift action in arresting the presumed attacker. Well continue helping them in every possible way throughout their investigation.

For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Footage of Sean Diddy Combs hanging out with a 15-year-old Justin Bieber has resurfaced after the rappers homes were raided in connection to a federal human trafficking investigation.

The raids occurred on Monday (25 March) at the hip-hop stars mansion in the Holmby Hills area of Los Angeles, California, and his Miami Beach home on Star Island, in Florida.

A statement from Homeland Security said law enforcement actions had been executed as part of an ongoing investigation with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami and our local law enforcement partners.

In a statement through his lawyer, Diddy called the raids a gross overuse of military-level force for which there was no excuse and insisted he was innocent.

Amid the investigation, a 14-year-old video from Biebers YouTube channel has re-emerged in which Diddy talks about spending 48-hours with the Baby singer.

The video starts with Combs showing Bieber (now 30) his Lamborghini and promising him a drive in it once he turns 16 next year.

You ever seen the movie 48 Hrs? Right now [Justin is] having 48 hours with Diddy, him and his boy, the rapper says in the video.

Theyre having the times of their lives, like where we hanging out and what were doing we cant really disclose. But its definitely a 15-year-olds dream.

I have been given custody of him, Diddy says. You know, hes signed to Usher and I had legal guardianship of Usher when he did his first album. I did Ushers first album.

He adds: For the next 48 hours, hes with me. And were gonna go full. Buck full crazy.

Lets go get some girls, Bieber tells Diddy when asked what he wants to do.

Man after my heart, the rapper responds. Thats what Im talking about.

Justin Bieber (left) and Diddy in 2009 (Justin Bieber/YouTube)

Representatives for Bieber and Combs did not immediately respond to The Independents request for comment.

Combs, 54, is credited with helping launch the careers of artists including Biggie Smalls, Mary J Blige and Usher.

The current criminal investigation into Combs is a major escalation in the scrutiny of the music mogul, who has been the defendant in several sexual abuse lawsuits in recent months.

In February, a male music producer has accused Combs of sexually assaulting him and forcing him to sleep with sex workers.

In November of last year, Combss former partner, Casandra Cassie Ventura filed a lawsuit in which she claimed she was trafficked, raped and beaten by the rapper on numerous occasions over the course of 10 years.

Venturas lawsuit was settled a day after she filed it for an undisclosed amount of money.

Another of Diddys accusers is a woman who alleges that he raped her two decades ago, when she was 17 years old.

Combs vehemently denied the allegations. In a statement in December, he called the claims sickening and said his accusers were looking for a quick payday.

Let me be absolutely clear: I did not do any of the awful things being alleged, he said in a statement. I will fight for my name, my family and for the truth.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, March 27. The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) intends to intensify cooperation with Turkmenistan, attracting a large number of international experts to create multilateral tourism products, Trend reports.

Zurab Pololikashvili, UNWTO Secretary General, made the statement on the sidelines of the International Tourism Conference in Ashgabat.

"Now we are only going through the initial stage of partnership. I am sure that many joint projects will be implemented in the future, designed to benefit the country, the Organization and fans of tourism. In this regard, we intend to attract a large number of international experts to create multilateral tourism products," he said.

The Secretary General stressed that this was his first visit to the country, which made the most positive impression on him, adding that tremendous work has been done in Turkmenistan in this area over the past 30 years.

"Having arrived in this wonderful country, I had the opportunity to personally verify the fruitfulness and effectiveness of current reforms. Today, Turkmenistan has created a high-quality infrastructure for the active development of the tourism industry. Therefore, this country has a huge potential to attract tourists from all over the world," he said.

Meanwhile, on March 27-28, Ashgabat hosts an international conference on the topic 'Main Directions and Potential for Tourism Development in Turkmenistan', which is actively attended by representatives of ministries and departments of Turkmenistan, as well as representatives of leading tourism organizations.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
A plane associated with US producer-musician Sean "Diddy" Combs landed in Antigua the day his luxury US homes were raided (ANGELA WEISS)

Lawyers for Sean "Diddy" Combs on Tuesday said raids carried out by federal agents on the rap mogul's US homes were an "unprecedented ambush" and part of "a witch hunt based on meritless accusations."

Two luxury properties owned by Combs -- who is at the center of sex trafficking claims and sex assault lawsuits -- were raided Monday by armed agents from Homeland Security Investigations.

"Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr Combs' residences," lawyer Aaron Dyer said in a statement to US media.

"This unprecedented ambush -- paired with an advanced, coordinated media presence -- leads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits," said Dyer.

Authorities have not said why the raids were carried out.

But Combs is the target of several civil lawsuits that characterize him as a violent sexual predator who used alcohol and drugs to subdue his victims.

He has faced at least four lawsuits from people who say he sexually abused them, with allegations dating back decades.

Last year Combs was sued by former girlfriend Casandra Ventura, who performed under the stage name Cassie and was signed to his Bad Boy label.

The suit alleged he had forced her to perform sexual acts with multiple men over a number of years in cities across the United States.

That suit was settled, but was followed by others, including one in December by a woman who accused Combs of sexual assault, alleging he and others gang-raped her when she was 17.

Combs, who has not been criminally convicted, denies all the allegations.

"There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations. Mr Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name," said Dyer on Tuesday.

The attorney said there was "no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities," and said neither Combs nor any of his family members were arrested.

A law enforcement source told AFP that Combs -- known also as Diddy or Puff Daddy -- had been in Miami on Monday and had been spoken to by agents, but confirmed he had not been arrested.

Aerial images taken Monday had appeared to show the rapper's sons Justin and King Combs in handcuffs at his Los Angeles property.

New images published by celebrity website TMZ on Tuesday appeared to show computers and other electronic equipment had been ripped out from Combs' Los Angeles home.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday it emerged that a luxury private jet belonging to Combs landed in the Caribbean island of Antigua hours after his US homes were raided.

Combs was not aboard the Gulfstream V, US media said Tuesday as they published photos of the aircraft in the tropical hideaway.

Flight tracking data showed the plane -- named LoveAir -- had departed from an airport in southern California on Monday.

hg-amz/md
Heritage Auctions largest collection of Disney memorabilia will hit the auction block from April 5-8 in Beverly Hills.

The collection will spotlight work from Marc and Alice Davis, former Disney Imagineers who worked on classic Disney movies and attractions. Marc was a talented animator who worked on Disney films like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and developed and animated famous characters like Tinkerbell, Maleficent, Aurora, and Cruella de Vil.

Marc was also a member of Walt Disneys Nine Old Men group, which comprised the studios most talented animators from the 1930s through the 80s.

Replica of Disneylands Haunted Mansion attraction hits the market

Alice, Marcs wife and frequent collaborator, created memorable costume designs for park attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, Flight to the Moon and the 1964-65 version of Its a Small World.

Marc and Alice were named Disney Legends, the companys highest honor, in 1989 and 2004, respectively.

Heritage Auctions collection, The Art of Disneyland  Featuring the Marc and Alice Davis Archive Signature Auction, will include more than 500 pieces from the Davis archives. The collection will include concept art, Marcs original paintings and personal correspondence between the couple and other Disney greats like Mary Blair.













Specifically, Marcs personal binder, which includes 116 original production drawings from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, two of Alices sketchbooks, and concept drawings of the fairy godmother from Cinderella, will all be available for auction, a news release said.

Aside from the Davis personal collection, whats believed to be the last surviving and most complete version of Disney W.E.B Enterprises shooting gallery, functioning audio-animatronics from Walt Disney Worlds Enchanted Tiki Room and Epcots Food Rocks attractions, along with costumes, signage and more will be auctioned off.

Proceeds from the auction will benefit the couples favorite charities, including the art department of Cal Arts, where, when it was known as Chouinard, the couple first met in an animation class Marc was teaching.

New characters, ride details revealed for Tianas Bayou Adventure at Disneyland

This may be Heritages best sale ever for The Art of Disneyland, Jim Lentz, Heritages vice president of animation and anime Art, said in a statement.

The Complete W.E.B Shooting Gallery in addition to the Bradely/Bushman Archives for the early development of Disneyland, are once-in-a-lifetime auction opportunities. If Disneyland is the Happiest Place on Earth, I believe this auction may be the Happiest Auction on Earth!

More information about the auction can be found here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Allies of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Disney have reached a settlement agreement over how Walt Disney World is governed in the future.

It comes after a judge ruled in January that it was legal for the state to make changes to the amusement theme park's district government.

A row between the two sides has been trundling on for almost two years.

It was sparked by Disney's criticism of a state law that restricted the teaching of sexuality in schools.

In a meeting on Wednesday, members of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board approved the settlement agreement.

Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a statement that the company was pleased that a settlement had been reached.

"This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the state," the Associated Press news agency quoted Mr Vahle as saying.

The two sides started feuding after Disney, under pressure from its staff, criticised the Parental Rights in Education Act - dubbed the "Don't Say Gay" bill by critics - which bans discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity for students in Florida.

In response to Disney's criticism, Mr DeSantis - who is a proponent of the law - passed legislation that stripped Disney of its self-governing authority - a power the company had for more than 50 years.

The move gave more power to Mr DeSantis, who now appoints members of a board that governs the park's 25,000 acres.

But before the board changed hands, Disney supporters on the board signed agreements with the company shifting control of some aspects at Disney World to the company - a move the district then sued Disney over. The company also countersued.

Under Wednesday's agreement, litigation counsel Paul Huck said at the board meeting that the company recognised that the signing over of control to Disney before the board changed hands was "null and void".

The city-sized theme park had been operated by Disney since 1971.
Disney and the state of Florida have reached a settlement agreement in their lawsuit about who controls Walt Disney Worlds governing district, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board announced Wednesday.

Members of the board approved the settlement agreement, ending the nearly two years of litigation that were originally sparked by Gov. Ron DeSantiss (R) Dont Say Gay law.

Disney and DeSantis have been engaged in a feud since the company publicly opposed the law and DeSantis stripped Disney of the special status it had for decades, which gave it self-governing power over the Reedy Creek Improvement District.

DeSantis signed a bill in February 2023 ending Disneys self-governing status and allowing the district to be controlled by the state. The governors office then could appoint a five-member board to govern the district.

Disney claimed DeSantis and the state of Florida violated the companys First Amendment rights by using government power to retaliate against its opposition and filed a lawsuit last April.

The agreement reached Wednesday stipulates that development plans approved by the previous board before DeSantis took over would be null and void. Disney has also agreed to dismiss a separate state case involving public records.

The federal case that Disney has filed against the district is on appeal now to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, the board said.

Jeff Vahle, the president of Walt Disney World Resort, said the company was pleased a settlement had been reached.

This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the state, his statement said.

At a press conference Wednesday afternoon, DeSantis said he was glad that a settlement agreement was reached.

He added that the Tourism Oversight Board and the Reedy Creek district is a big part of the states efforts to make this region very strong.

Multiple times DeSantis highlighted the rival theme park by Universal Studios set to open in 2025, and said he has got to think Disney would want to compete and expand their footprint. Competition between the businesses is a good thing for Florida, he said.

Updated at 1:42 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Gabriella Borter

BALTIMORE (Reuters) -The pilot of the cargo freighter that knocked down a highway bridge into Baltimore Harbor had radioed for tugboat help and reported a power loss minutes earlier, federal safety officials said on Wednesday, citing audio from the ship's "black box" data recorder.

The head of the National Transportation Safety Board also said that Francis Scott Key Bridge, a traffic artery over the harbor built in 1976, lacked structural engineering redundancies common to newer spans, making it more vulnerable to a catastrophic collapse.

New insights into the fatal disaster emerged a day after the massive Singapore-flagged container ship Dali sailing out of Baltimore Harbor bound for Sri Lanka reported losing power and the ability to maneuver before plowing into a support pylon of the bridge.

The impact brought most of the bridge tumbling into the mouth of the Patapsco River almost immediately, blocking shipping lanes and forcing the indefinite closure of the Port of Baltimore, one of the busiest on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard.

Divers on Wednesday recovered the remains of two of the six workers missing since the crumbling bridge tossed them into the water, officials said on Wednesday.

Maryland State Police Colonel Roland Butler said a red pickup truck containing the bodies of the two men was found in about 25 feet (7.62 m) of water near the mid-section of the fallen bridge.

He also said authorities had suspended efforts to retrieve more bodies from the depths due to increasingly treacherous conditions in the wreckage-strewn harbor. Butler said sonar images showed additional submerged vehicles "encased" in sunken bridge debris, making them difficult to reach.

The two men whose bodies were recovered on Wednesday were identified as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, of Baltimore, a native of Mexico, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, of nearby Dundalk, originally from Guatemala.

Four more workers who were part of a crew filling potholes on the bridge's road surface remained missing and presumed dead. The six also included immigrants from Honduras and El Salvador, officials said.

Rescuers pulled two workers from the water alive on Tuesday, and one was hospitalized.

The economic fallout could be staggering. The port handles more automobile and farm equipment freight than any other in the country, as well as container freight and bulk goods ranging from sugar to coal.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said the 8,000 jobs are "directly associated" with port operations, which generate $2 million a day in wages.

Still, economists and logistics experts doubted the port closure would trigger a major U.S. supply chain crisis or significant spike in the price of goods, due to ample capacity at rival shipping hubs along the East Coast.

The collapse, which occurred at 1:30 a.m., has created a traffic quagmire as well for Baltimore and the surrounding region.

INTERVIEWING SURVIVORS

Earlier on Wednesday an NTSB team boarded the idled freighter, still anchored in the harbor channel with part of the mangled bridge splayed over its bow, to begin interviewing the ship's two pilots and 21 regular crew members who remained on the vessel, safety board chief Jennifer Homendy said.

Investigators also began reviewing information collected from the ship's Voyage Data Recorder, including radio traffic between the pilot and shore-based authorities leading up to the disaster.

The pilot was heard calling for tugboat assistance several minutes before the crash, the first indication of distress to harbor officials, followed by a radio report that the ship had lost all power and was approaching the bridge, NTSB officials said at a news briefing on Wednesday night.

Video footage that captured the accident show the ship's lights winking off, then back on briefly before the vessel's lights go out again.

Homendy said recorder data was "consistent with a power outage" but that an actual blackout had yet to be confirmed.

The recorder also picked up commands to the crew to drop anchor, presumably aimed at slowing the vessel.

Safety board investigator Marcel Muise said data showed the Dali, measuring about three football fields in length and piled high with shipping containers, was moving at about 8 miles per hour (12.8 km) when it struck a bridge abutment.

Homendy noted that the bridge, while deemed to be in "satisfactory" condition from its most recent inspection in 2023, was constructed in such a way that failure of one structural member "would likely cause a portion of, or the entire bridge to collapse."

Further details of last-minute efforts to save lives emerged on Wednesday from open-source recordings of emergency radio chatter from the moments that authorities were alerted that the cargo ship Dali was drifting out of control toward Key Bridge.

"Hold all traffic on the Key Bridge. There's a ship approaching that just lost their steering," someone is heard saying over a police radio.

While voices were heard discussing next steps, including alerting any work crews to leave the bridge, one broke through to say: "The whole bridge just fell down!" The audio was carried by the public streaming service Broadcastify.

The U.S. Coast Guard's first priorities are to restore the waterway for shipping, stabilize the crippled vessel and extricate it, Vice Admiral Peter Gautier said at a White House news briefing.

Of the ship's 4,700 cargo containers, 56 hold hazardous materials but there is no threat to the public, Gautier said. Two containers went overboard during the crash but they did not contain hazardous materials. The ship was carrying more than 1.5 million gallons of fuel oil, Gautier added.

Homendy said some of hazmat containers aboard the vessel had been breached and a sheen was noticed on the water's surface.

(Reporting by Gabriella Borter in Baltimore; Additional reporting by Rami Ayyub, Nandita Bose, Doina Chiacu, Ted Hesson, Katharine Jackson, Mike Segar, David Shephardson; Writing by Steve Gorman and Doina Chiacu; Editing by Howard Goller, Josie Kao and Stephen Coates)
The battle for control of the Senate GOP conference between mainstream Republicans and Trump-aligned conservatives is playing out in key Senate races that could tip more power to conservative Senate rebels.

Republican strategists say the outcome of races in Arizona, Maryland, Montana, Ohio and West Virginia will shape the future of the Senate Republican Conference and may push it in the direction of the more conservative, populist House GOP majority.

If Republican candidates Kari Lake and Bernie Moreno win in Arizona and Ohio, respectively, it would bolster Senate conservatives such as Sens. Mike Lee (R-Utah), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Rick Scott (R-Fla.) and Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) who have battled with the party establishment in Washington for years.

Weve seen an increasing number of Republican senators who are more populist, and its absolutely possible there are going to be more Republicans that fall under that philosophy, said Ron Bonjean, a GOP strategist and former Senate leadership aide.

If you look at the House, more Republicans have been elected that are populist and dont follow the typical mainstream conservative Republicans viewpoints, and thats starting to be more reflected in the Senate, he said.

With Moreno or Lake elected to the Senate, theyre not going to necessarily follow Senate Republican leadership, and theyre going to much more likely follow either Donald Trump or their own populist drummer  just like whats going on in the House, he continued.

Both Lake and Moreno are closely aligned with Trump and have embraced his unsubstantiated claim that Joe Biden stole the 2020 election, a claim that Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and his leadership team firmly rejected.

Lake previously called McConnell an old bat who needed to be booted from the GOP leadership and last year questioned his mental fitness for the job, though she has since softened her opposition to McConnell.

By contrast, she repeatedly praised Trump as superman in her unsuccessful 2022 gubernatorial campaign.

Lake told reporters in the Capitol earlier this month she would oppose sending more military aid to Ukraine, putting her in the same camp of MAGA-aligned Republicans in Congress and at odds with McConnell.

Moreno aired a digital ad in January of 2022 in which he looked directly into the camera and declared: President Trump says the election was stolen, and hes right.

Reagan McCarthy, a spokesperson for Morenos campaign, said his position claiming the 2020 election was stolen remains unchanged.

He was backed early by the conservative Club for Growth, which has a history of backing anti-GOP establishment candidates in primaries, and also opposes sending more U.S. aid to the war in Ukraine, which he dismissed as a bloody stalemate.

Matt Dole, an Ohio-based Republican strategist, said Moreno would come to the Senate as a conservative in the mold of Sens. JD Vance (R-Ohio), Cruz or Lee, all critics of the Senate GOP leadership within their own conference.

Hes certainly a Trump guy and likely to be a senator sort of in the mold of JD Vance, Dole said. He understands the political era were in, where youve got to express your opinion in grand terms to get coverage.

Dole, however, called Moreno an analytical businessman who would make his own decisions.

He noted that Moreno comes from outside the GOP political establishment in Ohio; he moved to the state in 2005 to buy a car dealership and eventually grew his operation to 55 dealerships before shifting to the blockchain technology business.

Moreno called his opponent, Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), an old commie at a recent rally in Dayton, where he pledged to help push Trumps America First agenda through Congress.

Moreno has shifted dramatically closer to Trump in the last few years. He made critical statements of Trump in 2016, even privately bashing him as a lunatic and a maniac.

His daughter is married to a former Trump aide, Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio), which GOP strategists say helped cement ties between Moreno and Trump.

If Lake and Moreno win in November, it could have an impact on the race to replace McConnell, enticing another candidate to jump into the race, such as Scott, who says hes seriously considering it.

There definitely could be a dark-horse candidate that could potentially take the conference to a second or third ballot before they get to a consensus. Its not a given that its going be Sens. Cornyn and Thune, Bonjean said.

He said the election of more populist senators to the Senate GOP conference could add a wrinkle to the leadership race.

Senate GOP aides say the outcome of the race to succeed McConnell is also likely to be heavily influenced by whether Trump wins a second term as president.

Republican candidates in several other states where the GOP has a chance to pick up Democratic-held Senate seats  Maryland, Montana and West Virginia  would be more natural allies of McConnell and his most likely successor, either Senate GOP Whip John Thune (R-S.D.) or former Whip John Cornyn (R-Texas).

McConnell personally recruited West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice (R) to challenge now-retiring Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), and he worked quietly behind the scenes to convince former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) to run for retiring Sen. Ben Cardins (D) seat.

And McConnell told The Hill last month that he would be involved in the Montana Republican primary to help businessman Tim Sheehy when he was facing an expected challenge from Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.), a bomb-thrower in the House Freedom Caucus.

Justice showed his solidarity with McConnell on the war in Ukraine in 2022 by requesting the West Virginia state Legislature send $5 million to help civilian victims of Russian bombing in Ukraine.

Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL, initially echoed McConnells call to stop Putin in Ukraine before Russia poses a bigger threat to the rest of Europe but scaled back his endorsement of U.S. military aid while Rosendale loomed as a potential primary rival.

In July, he called for the U.S. to demand a settlement to the war and focus its energy instead on fixing the domestic economy.

Hogan, if elected, would be one of the most centrist members of the Senate GOP conference.

Kari Lake and Bernie Moreno obviously are different from some of the other candidates who are less MAGA, said Brian Darling, a GOP strategist and former Senate aide.

The conference will get a little more conservative if Lake defeats Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), who is also running for retiring Sen. Kyrsten Sinemas (I) seat, or if Moreno knocks off Brown.

Theyre loud voices; they have a strong presence. If Trump wins, theyre going to be totally in line with the White House, and the more-establishment types will be much less in line with White House, he said. Youre going to have a power struggle between whoever ends up being the Republican leader and whoever ends up being leader of the pro-Trump faction in the Senate.

This story was updated at 11:49 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM)  The Elmira Police Department says it received a grant to pay for advanced DNA testing and analysis in the 1964 unsolved killing of Mary Theresa Simpson. The 12-year-olds body was found on a hill, covered in rocks and debris, four days after she was reported missing. Nobody was ever arrested or charged.

Mary Theresa Simpson. Photo provided by Linda Galpin.

Mary Theresa Simpsons sister, Linda Galpin, says she has been waiting for justice for her younger sister for more than 60 years.

Well, I can only tell you a little bit because I wasnt home when my sister got murdered, Galpin said. We were very close when we were younger. We went to the Neighborhood House, we went to Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, we did roller skate together. We went to camp together. We took dancing lessons together. She was a very active person, and she was very shy.

I know when she was with my dad, she still continued to be active and go to school, Galpin added. She was a very good student. We do go over to the cemetery because its right over here, Saint Petes, and we put flowers there.

On Sunday March 15th, 1964, Mary Theresa Simpson was reported missing by her father, Ellsworth Simpson. Before she disappeared, her sister says Mary was on her way to her Aunts house. She was reportedly last seen around 6:30 p.m. near the corner of East Market and Harriet Street. People found her body four days later in a wooded area off Combs Hill Road.

I just know she was found up on Combs Hill. She was covered up with boulders and a hand was sticking out. She was fully clothed when they found her, and I guess she had twigs in her mouth, thats what I heard, Galpin said.

Over the years, several possible suspects were cleared. Most people who were initially involved in the case have died. On March 15th, the 60th anniversary of her disappearance, the Elmira Police Detective Bureau announced it received a grant from a non-profit called Season of Justice. In a press release, Sgt. William Goodwin said the money would pay for advanced DNA testing and analysis on a DNA sample found on Marys blouse in the year 2000 by New York State Police.

The press release says Recent advances in DNA technology will allow the recovered profile from the blouse to be used for genetic genealogy and family tree research.

Mary-Theresa-Simpson-60th-UpdateDownload

Suspicions went around, people assuming who it was, this and that, and came about to my dad and one of my friends. But, I have no idea. We all love her and miss her said Galpin.

Do you have any personal thoughts on what you think happened? asked reporter Nick Dubina.

I have some thoughts, but they told me the person might be cleared, Galpin answered. And the person who I think did it, I dont think that person meant to hurt her. I think they just got into a disagreement, and she fell down the stairs and they didnt know what to do.

You knew this person? Dubina asked.

Yes.

Theyre not around anymore If I may ask?

No.

And youre not going to identify them here, right? You dont have to do anything you dont want to.

I actually thought it was my father, Galpin said. My father and Dave Lewis.

Galpin says Dave Lewis was her fathers friend and roommate. Both are deceased.

You know with my dad, I tell my dad every day, Im sorry if its not him. I told my dad that to his face, that I thought he killed my sister, Galpin said.

May we ask what his reaction to that was?

He didnt like it too well. He said no, I didnt. Then when he passed away, he took all her pictures with him, Galpin said.

Elmira City Council approves police pay raises of 29% over 4 years

In 2019, then Police Chief Joseph Kane told 18 News DNA testing alone may not be enough to identify the killer.

Once we find who that might belong to, then we still have to show they may have been involved in her death, Kane said. So, we have to consider what could be the source of that DNA. If we find it on a blouse, could it be the person who washed or folded that blouse. DNA is not the cure-all. Its not the absolute, one thing that tells you what they did. Its another tool in the toolbox, and we have to use as much of that as we can.

It has been over 60 years, said Galpin. They could have pressed a little bit harder. Ya know, to dig in a little bit more before you know, everybodys gone. Ill probably get in trouble, but I dont think they did a really good job. The police that first found her, I think they were trying, but we didnt have DNA back then.

I just wish and hope that they could settle this for once and for all. I really do. And I do thank them if theyre trying hard.

So, you would like to see justice served, no matter how long it takes?

Yes, I would like to see justice served, Galpin said.

You can watch the full interview with Linda Galpin below.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
The environmental damage caused by the missile attack on Dnipro HPP by the Russian military on March 22 amounts to more than 140 million hryvnias ($3.6 million), Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Ruslan Strilets said on national television on March 27.

Environmental inspectors recorded soil contamination and a stain of oil products weighing about 0.5 tons.

Read also: Dnipro HPP restoration will take years - Ukrhydroenergo

The situation has now stabilized. At the moment, no excess oil content is recorded at any sampling point.

Experts from the State Environmental Inspectorate and the State Water Agency continue to monitor the water quality in the Dnipro River below the Dnipro HPP dam on a daily basis.

Over 600,000 tons of demolition waste have already been generated across the country.

Missile attack on Dnipro HPP on March 22  what is known

Russia carried out the largest-scale attack on Ukraines power grid since the invasion on March 22, with the most serious attack on the Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant in Zaporizhzhya, which suspended its operations. According to official reports from Ukrenergo, Ukrhydroenergo, and the Ukrainian authorities, the following are the consequences of the attack on the facility:

The plant was hit at least eight times, in particular, the support tower and crane beams of the Dnipro HPP were damaged. After that, a fire broke out at the facility. In total, Russia fired at least 20 missiles at Zaporizhzhya.

Read also: Oil products leak into Dnipro River after Russian attack on HPP dam

HPP-2 will not be able to operate for a certain period or will operate in a limited mode.

The plants engine room and electrical equipment will have to be restored from scratch.

Read also: Dnipro HPP struggles to recover following catastrophic Russian attack

Ukraine has lost another 20% of its regulating capacity as a result of Russian strikes on the Dnipro HPP.

According to the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine, the damage to the Dnipro River as a result of the Russian missile attack on Dnipro HPP amounts to about 159,000 hryvnias ($4,048).

The Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Station consists of two power plants, forming a single complex of hydraulic structures located under one dam  Dnipro HES-1 (10 hydroelectric units with radial-axial type turbines) and Dnipro HES-2 (8 hydroelectric units: 6 with Kaplan turbines, 2 with propeller turbines).



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Five days after the massive Russian attack on the Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant (DHPP), debris is still being cleared and experts are assessing the condition of the equipment, Deputy Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk told Radio Liberty on March 27.

"Teams are on the ground fixing what they can quickly and sourcing replacements for heavily damaged equipment," Hrynchuk detailed. She highlighted the energy sector's status as a prime target, emphasizing the need for robust preparedness and enhanced air defense to safeguard and rehabilitate energy infrastructures.

The attack on March 22 marked the most significant aggression against Ukraine's energy framework since the full-scale invasion began, with the DHPP experiencing unprecedented damage since February 2022. The assault was calculated, targeting essential structural components of the plant and inciting a fire, according to Hrynchuk,

Read also: Russian strikes may force rolling blackouts across Ukraine, expert says

Government sources note the facility was hit at least eight times, affecting key support structures and leading to a series of missile strikes on Zaporizhzhya, the city home to the dam.

It would "take years" to restore the critically damaged Dnipro HPP in Zaporizhzhya, Ukrhydroenergo CEO Ihor Syrota said on March 25.



The scale of the damage is still being unraveled, with significant sections of the plant's machinery room inaccessible due to debris from collapsed infrastructure. The priority remains to dismantle the upper sections to facilitate cleanup and recovery operations.

"It will take years, not days or months, to restore the plant, because more than six missiles hit the HPP-2 station, and the bridge and crane beams were damaged. So the damage is extensive," said Syrota.

The assault has significantly impaired Ukraine's power grid, with a 20% reduction in its regulation capability following the hits on the DHPP, as reported on March 23.

As of March 23, Ukraine has lost approximately 20% of its power grid's regulation capability due to the Russian strikes on the DHPP.



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Theresa Mays time in Downing Street will be explored in a revelatory new documentary five years on from her emotional resignation outside Number 10, ITV has announced.

Britains second female prime minister will be the subject of Theresa May: Accidental PM, a programme delving into her three years in power.

ITV promises unique access to Mrs May, with the documentary featuring clips of her at home with husband Philip and contributions from Amber Rudd, her home secretary, and Lord Barwell, her former adviser.

Suella Braverman, who served as a Brexit minister under Mrs May, will also appear in the programme, which is produced by The Slate Works and will air in June.

The documentary, which will include rarely seen archive footage, will track Mrs Mays rise to power in 2016, the 2017 snap election, which led to a hung Parliament, and her governments travails in delivering Brexit.

It will also cover the Grenfell Tower fire, the Windrush scandal and her relationship with Donald Trump, the former US president, as well as her time as a backbencher since leaving office in 2019.

Earlier this month, Mrs May announced that she was standing down as the MP for Maidenhead, 27 years after first arriving at Westminster.

ITV said that the programme would also examine her treatment by some from within her own Cabinet and many more from her own back benches.

The divisions among the Conservative Party on how to deliver Brexit and Mrs Mays ultimate failure to get her deal through Parliament led to her resignation.

Neil Grant, the executive producer of the documentary, said: Theresa May has never given access like this before. Full, frank and revelatory, this is a rare insight into power and politics at a time of turmoil, turbulence and betrayal.

Mrs May released her first book, The Abuse of Power, last year, covering her time as home secretary and then prime minister, which was published to mixed reviews.

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An NHS doctor has urged the public not to eat Easter eggs in one go this weekend.

Dr Andrew Kelso urged the public to eat Easter eggs in moderation as the NHS braces for a busy Bank Holiday weekend.

Giving out health advice for Easter in a blog for a local NHS website, the doctor said people should resist the urge to eat a whole egg in one go.

The advice received a backlash from social media users and Nigel Farage, who said he was sick to death of this nannying state.

In his advice, Dr Kelso, the medical director at NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board, said most people did not realise that the average Easter egg contained about three-quarters of an adults recommended daily calorie intake.

'Stock up on paracetamol' ... Dr Andrew Kelso has urged people to eat their Easter eggs 'in moderation' as the NHS faces a busy Bank Holiday weekend

If eggs are combined with cakes and biscuits it all adds up to a lot of extra sugar and calories, Dr Kelso said, and that doesnt do our bodies any good.

He added: At a time like this, when we are seeing significant increases in cases of obesity and Type 2 diabetes, as well as tooth decay, I urge people to enjoy their Easter eggs in moderation and resist the urge to eat a whole one in one go.

Enjoy your sweet treats, but please dont overdo it.

He asked the public to make sure they are stocked up on paracetamol, sticking plasters, indigestion remedy and antidiarrheal medicine with Easter set to be a busy period for NHS staff and services.

The NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board's web page with advice on how to eat Easter eggs

The webpage with the comments has since been taken down by the local NHS organisation.

Mr Farage told GB News viewers: I am sick to death of being told we cant do this, we cant do that, its Easter for goodness sake.

Im sorry, Dr Kelso, but you really bore the pants off me, its Easter, I dont eat chocolate everyday, but Im going to scoff all of this [egg].

One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, wrote: I can confirm that I will be listening to the advice from NHS Dr Andrew Kelso. I will be eating 3 whole Easter eggs in one go, instead.

One woman said it was typically British to take this advice as a challenge.

Another user asked whether the NHS board in question was a parody account, while someone else said: Youre not my mum.

One man asked for more specific instructions on which eggs were included, and whether Creme Eggs were.

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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Images of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsing after a cargo ship crashed into one of the support beams Tuesday morning have left many worried about traveling across bridges, even here in Michigan.

But even with those concerns, one Western Michigan University engineering professor said that Michiganders should not have fear when driving over bridges in the state.

I want to tell the public, Dont worry about driving over bridges. Our wonderful engineers at the Department of Transportation make everything safe,' Dr. Upul Attanayake with WMU said.

6 presumed dead after cargo ship causes Baltimore bridge to collapse

Attanayake called the bridge collapse in Baltimore a very unique incident given that the entire 1.6-mile structure fell in a matter of seconds after being struck by the ship. He told News 8 that while the video is shocking, it shouldnt deter drivers from continuing to travel over bridges in Michigan.

They are very rare, he said. So I dont think people should get panicked by looking at this.

Michigan inspects and prepares for potential incidents on and around bridges, Attanayake said. Every two years, bridges must be checked by licensed individuals, and if there is a massive issue found, most bridges are closed within 24 hours of the inspection until they meet the standard.

Attanayake also added that Michigans bridges are still in good standing but hopes that in the future, there will be an increase in infrastructure funding to keep them that way.

Do we have long-term funding to have the programs for maintenance of these bridges? Because we have a large volume of bridges, Attanayake said. We need to have continuous funding, dedicated funding for infrastructure. But safety-wise, bridges are safe.

Although the bridges in Michigan go through inspections routinely, there are still instances in which an accident could occur like what was seen in Baltimore.

The crew aboard the cargo ship in Baltimore sent out a mayday call before it collided with one of the bridge supports, which officials have credited with saving countless lives. Attanayake said that there are similar precautions in Michigan to help avoid additional damage.

The police get involved, the public safety and they will close the road and then inform the highway. So, the Michigan Department of Transportation will come, they will have inspectors coming and looking at the bridge and decide whether they can keep the bridge open or close the bridge, he said. It all depends on what is the specific scenario. They can send the crew to look at the bridge and meantime work with local public safety or police to close the road and take necessary actions. So always the safety is first.

Attanayake also told News 8 that in the future, there may be technology that will detect and notify authorities if there is even a minor amount of damage or change to the structure.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN)  A Dothan man is facing charges in Florida after investigators claimed he defaced traffic posts on the grounds of the state capital.

Kiley Vance Justice, 23, of Dothan, and 20-year-old Greta Lane Paul, of Tallahassee, were arrested in Florida and charged with one count each of misdemeanor criminal mischief.

According to Florida Capital Police, Justice and Paul wrote Save Gaza in red paint across traffic barrier posts while at a rally with other demonstrators on Saturday, March 2, in front of the Florida Capital building.

The posts were on the capital grounds, facing the intersection of Monroe Street and Apalachee Parkway.

Police say an investigation by FDLE Capital Police identified Justice and Paul as the suspects, and Justive turned himself into the Jackson County Jail in Marianna, Florida, on Friday, March 22.

Paul was arrested by sheriffs deputies in Leon County, Florida.

Stay with WDHN for updates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Real estate market experts reported that Portlands central city had the highest vacancy rate for office space at the end of 2023 compared to other downtown areas.

Colliers published its latest research on commercial real estate trends earlier this month. The Portland-based real estate firm found that 30.2% of offices in the central business district were vacant late last year, with about 2.4 million square feet of office space open for subleasing.

City auditor says Zenith Energy failed to report lobbying with Portland officials

Portlands office market will benefit from a diminishing development pipeline, researchers wrote. The delivery of The Offices at 11W and Block 216 in 2023 represented the last of pre-pandemic speculative office construction downtown. The only active office projects under construction are across the Columbia River in the Clark County submarket.

Although slowing construction could help with Portlands oversupply of office space, Colliers expects the demand to be negative through 2025.

According to the real estate firm, 57% of leasing activity happened outside of the central city in 2023. The market experts also reported that more than 4.2 million square feet of office leases will expire within the next five years, and the current tenants are likely to downsize instead of renewing  pointing to another down year for downtown.

While the number of people who work from home has declined since 2020, the pandemic-era shift to remote jobs has played a role in office vacancy rates. Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler addressed this last November when he urged central city employers to enforce an at least 20 hour in-person work week to encourage downtown foot traffic.

6 earthquakes hit Oregon Coast, one moderate in magnitude

Colliers report also included market overviews highlighting the Salem, Eugene and Medford-Grants Pass areas, where vacancy rates dont exceed 8.5%.

The bright spots of the market are still the suburban/rural periphery with continued demand for their quality of life, Colliers Vice President Sean Worls said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  The questions surrounding the purchase of a $19,000-plus lectern by the governors office are closer to being answered.

Arkansas Legislative Auditor Roger Norman confirmed that the draft audit report reviewing the lectern purchase is complete and has been delivered to Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders office. A response to the purchase by the office is due by Friday.

#NEWS: Auditor Roger Norman has confirmed the draft audit report looking into the governors office lectern purchase is complete. Management response from Govs office is due on Friday. The anticipated completion date is now early April. @KARK4News @FOX16News @CapitolViewAR #arpx  Samantha Boyd (@samanthaboyd98) March 27, 2024

At issue is a custom lectern ordered in June for $19,029.25, a premium price. The purchase was made just before the governors trip to Paris from Beckett Events LLC of Virginia.

Beckett is an events management firm and its website does not list equipment sales as one of its services. GOP lobbyist Virginia Beckett owned the company and was a lobbyist while Sanders was President Donald Trumps press secretary.

Beckett and a second woman Hanah Stone, who had a press role in the Trump administration, consulted for the governors January inauguration. Pictures they posted on social media show the two traveled to Paris at the same time as the Sanders-led Arkansas trade delegation.

Arkansas governors $19,000 lectern remains out of sight, but not out of mind with audit underway

Sen. Jimmy Hickey (R-Texarkana) requested the audit in September 2023 after questions were raised, including if documents related to the lecterns purchase were altered as alleged by a whistle-blower attorney Tom Mars of Rogers.

Hickeys request for an audit was approved in October.

The audit started last fall, and the auditors originally said it would be completed by the beginning of the year.

Auditors then reported in early February that they had been delayed.

Sanders has maintained the purchase was made in accordance with all regulations.

Legislative audit into purchase of lectern by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders office delayed at least a month

This is a developing story. Please check back for further updates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
One of the suspects involved in the fatal shooting of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller told cops he didnt know the man who fired the bullet that pierced the officers stomach  claiming hed picked the accused killer up as a hitchhiker  prosecutors said Wednesday.

Lindy Jones, 41, said nothing as he was escorted in handcuffs out of the 101st Precinct stationhouse in Far Rockaway, Queens  right past a movie-poster-sized photo of Diller displayed as part of a memorial for the fallen cop.

The ex-con was more talkative during a gun arrest a year earlier, also in Far Rockaway, when he told arresting officers, My name is Lindy Jones, and I shoot people, law enforcement sources said.

This is exactly the type of individual, the repeat offender that our hero brother went out to try to take off the streets, Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry said Wednesday. He had no business being on the streets.

The memorial Jones walked past had several bouquets of flowers, heart and star-shaped balloons and handmade posters with missives, among them: PS 104 says be safe NYPD. Officer Diller a Hero

Jones was behind the wheel of a Kia Soul crossover SUV idling in Far Rockaway on Monday evening when his passenger, Guy Rivera, allegedly opened fire on the cop, according to police.

Jones was charged with weapon possession and possession of a defaced firearm for his role in the deadly clash. A defaced firearm with tape on the handle was found in the glove compartment, cops said.

After the shooting, Jones told police he had just picked up Rivera, who was a stranger to him, Queens Assistant District Attorney Gabriel Reale said at the drivers arraignment in Queens Criminal Court.

Jones pointed himself out in body camera footage sitting in the drivers seat of the Kia after the shooting, prosecutors said.

Jones was held without bail following the hearing, which was packed with dozens of NYPD officers.

These were two individuals who were planning something vicious that night, Hendry said outside the courthouse Wednesday. They were career criminals, and they did know each other, no doubt about it.

Jones was previously busted on weapon possession charges last April, after cops allegedly found a loaded pistol in his white Infiniti while it was parked on Beach 47th St., about a mile and a half from Mondays shooting.

Jones admitted the car and a cell phone next to the gun were his but didnt cop to the gun.

At his 2023 arraignment, a judge agreed to prosecutors requests he be held on $75,000 bail but declined their request for him to be fitted with an ankle monitor. Hed been due back in court Monday in that case.

He is just as responsible as the individual who pulled that trigger, Hendry said of Jones. Today is a road to justice for our hero brother. And were gonna continue to be in this courtroom and courtrooms across this city.

Mayor Adams, announcing Dillers death at Jamaica Hospital Monday, used Jones recent arrest to criticize the states bail reform laws.

April 2023  less than a year, gun charge, hes back on the street, Adams fumed. This is what you call not a crime problem but a recidivist problem. The same bad people doing bad things to good people.

Diller, a member of the NYPDs Queens South Community Response Team, his partner and a sergeant were on Mott Ave. near Smith Place around 5:50 p.m. Monday when they stopped a man they thought was armed.

[The man] had a hood on, a balaclava-style hood, a police official who has reviewed the body-camera footage told the Daily News. And they tell him you were adjusting your waistband, and the guy laughs and says, Yeah, I know.'

The officers had just confirmed the man wasnt armed when the sergeant saw Jones and Rivera walking toward the Kia Soul.

While it was first reported the Kia was in a bus stop, further investigation revealed it was parked at a meter, which the men didnt put coins into, cops said.

Rivera is walking with a bubble jacket open and his front hoodie pocket, where it turned out he had the gun, is hanging, the official said.

The sergeant noticed and informed Diller and his partner.

He has 20 years of experience, and he has a front view of that hoodie pocket, the official said.

When the men get into the Soul, the officers make a bee-line to the car, the official said.

Investigators believe Jones and Rivera were either casing a nearby T-Mobile store or keeping tabs on someone they wanted to rob when the cops approached.

Rivera, 34, refused Dillers command to open the passenger side door, the official said. When Jones finally complied and popped the locks, Diller tried to open the door, but Rivera twice pulled the door back.

When Diller then managed to yank the door open, Rivera allegedly pulled a gun and shot the officer.

You can hear [Diller] say, Take your hands out of your pocket,  said the NYPD official who reviewed the body camera footage. And then hes shot, and you hear him say, Im shot! 

Dillers partner opened fire three times in response, hitting Rivera in the back.

Riveras gun, which jammed after he fired once, fell to the ground.

Despite his fatal wound, Diller managed to grab Riveras gun before the suspect could pick it up.

Rivera remained in the hospital Wednesday. Charges against him were pending.

Diller leaves behind a young bride and a 1-year-old son. A funeral mass for the fallen cop is scheduled for Saturday in Massapequa Park, L.I.

The fallen cops loved ones on Wednesday were collecting photos of the officer to give to his baby son.

They will be added to a book to be given to his son as he grows to be able to peer into who his father was, brother-in-law Jonathan McAuley wrote on Facebook.
NEW YORK  One of the suspects involved in the fatal shooting of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller was charged with weapon possession Wednesday, police said.

Lindy Jones, 41, was behind the wheel of a Kia Soul crossover SUV idling at a bus stop in Far Rockaway Monday evening when his passenger, Guy Rivera, allegedly opened fire on the cop.

Police charged Jones Wednesday with weapon possession and possession of a defaced firearm for his role in the deadly clash. His arraignment in Queens Criminal Court was pending.

Jones was previously busted on weapons possession charges last April after cops allegedly found a loaded pistol in his white Infiniti while it was parked on Beach 47th St., about a mile and a half from where Mondays shooting occurred.

Jones admitted the car and a cell phone next to the gun were his but didnt cop to the gun.

At his arraignment, a judge agreed to prosecutors requests he be held on $75,000 bail but declined their request he be fitted with an ankle monitor. Hed due back in court Monday in that case.

Mayor Adams, announcing Officer Dillers death at Jamaica Hospital Monday, used Jones recent arrest to criticize the states bail reform laws.

April 2023  less than a year, gun charge, hes back on the street, Adams fumed. This is what you call not a crime problem but a recidivist problem. The same bad people doing bad things to good people. Less than a year, hes back on the streets.

Diller, a member of the NYPDs Queens South Community Response Team, his partner and a sergeant were on Mott Ave. near Smith Place when they observed the SUV sitting at the bus stop for more than 10 minutes about 5:50 p.m. Monday, officials said.

The cop had very good instincts, said a high-ranking police official who reviewed the officers body camera footage of the shooting. There was something about that car sitting there for as long as it was that didnt sit right with [Diller].

Investigators now believe Jones and Rivera were either casing a nearby T-Mobile store or keeping tabs on someone they wanted to rob when the cops approached and asked them to move the vehicle.

Rivera, 34, refused Dillers command to open the passenger side door, according to an NYPD official. When Jones finally complied and popped the locks, Diller tried to open the door but Rivera twice pulled the door back.

When Diller then managed to yank the door open, Rivera allegedly pulled a gun and shot the officer.

You can hear [Diller] say, Take your hands out of your pocket,  said the NYPD official who reviewed the body camera footage. And then hes shot and you hear him say, Im shot! 

Dillers partner opened fire three times in response. A bullet blasted through the closed drivers side window, flew past Jones sitting behind the wheel and hit Rivera in the back.

Riveras gun, which jammed after he fired once, fell to the ground. A second gun was later found in the vehicle, according to police sources.

Despite his fatal wound, Diller managed to grab Riveras gun before the suspect could pick it up.

Rivera remained in the hospital Wednesday morning. Charges against him are pending.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Authorities have made an arrest in a shooting that left a teenage employee critically injured at a McDonalds on Dickerson Pike.

The incident took place at the McDonalds located in the 3300 block of Dickerson Pike just before 4:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 16.

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According to the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD), the vehicle involved was described as a red or maroon Chevrolet sedan that had two females in the front and two males in the back.

The driver  identified as 25-year-old Shondrill Butler  allegedly became upset with the 17-year-old employee who was working the drive-thru window after she was charged the wrong amount.

After a brief interaction, a backseat passenger  who has not been identified  rolled down the window and displayed a handgun, officials said. This led to the 17-year-old employee pulling out a gun from his waistband, which then led to shots being fired.

PREVIOUS | Teen employee shot through drive-thru window at McDonalds along Dickerson Pike, police say

Police said the teen employee fired one shot. Meanwhile, the male passenger fired at least three times.

According to an arrest report, the employee was struck in the abdomen and needed immediate surgery.

At least four people were inside the restaurant when the shooting occurred, which placed them in fear of death or serious bodily injury due to the unidentified back passenger producing a firearm and opening fire, officials said.

At the time of the shooting, law enforcement said the individuals in the car already had their card, food and drinks. Police said this meant Butler could have drove off but stayed in the drive-thru.

| READ MORE | Latest headlines from Nashville and Davidson County

Butler was arrested officials determined she drove the suspect to the scene, drove away from the scene, got into another vehicle and left with the shooter again.

She was booked into Metro Jail on Tuesday, March 26. Butler faces a long list of charges which includes four counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, facilitation of attempted criminal homicide and vandalism.

She remains jailed on a $75,000 bond.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
(Bloomberg) -- Unilever is a storied name in Dutch business history, and its also a harbinger of what the future may hold for what was once continental Europes most open economy.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The consumer goods behemoth, which left its Dutch headquarters to consolidate in the UK four years ago, is considering listing its 17 billion ice cream business in Amsterdam or London. The decision depends on the Dutch business climate being attractive, Chief Executive Officer Hein Schumacher told the Buitenhof TV program on Sunday. But that is far from certain.

We have seen some surprises in recent years, he said. A predictable government and regulations are very important.

Recent laws to tax share buybacks and reduce tax benefits for expatriates  alongside a bill that would cap the number of foreign students allowed to study in the country  have set off alarms at firms that rely on international talent. Those concerns have been supercharged as it becomes clear that a country that has long prided itself on its liberal consensus is preparing to clamp down on immigration.

The resounding victory of far-right ideologue Geert Wilders in last Novembers election illustrates how far public opinion has shifted among Dutch voters since 2022, when the influx of migrants into the country increased by 60%. Wilders recently abandoned his bid to become prime minister, but still has the power to be a political kingmaker, and all three of the parties likely to have seats in the next government campaigned on anti-migrant platforms.

The backlash in the Netherlands, home to companies like ASML, Boskalis and NXP Semiconductors NV, highlights a developing threat to businesses across Europe: that rising populist sentiment could endanger access to the overseas labor on which they have come to rely.

What Im hearing from business leaders that have bigger operations here is that they are not going to be able to get people  or many wont be interested in coming, said Marjella Lecourt-Alma, chief executive officer of Datamaran, a software analytics company based in the Netherlands that focuses on ESG risks.

With coalition talks still in progress, the political direction of the European Unions fifth-largest economy remains uncertain. And corporate heads are now speaking up, with some threatening to leave  or expand overseas, rather than at home.

Dredging and salvage company Boskalis NVs Chief Executive Officer Peter Berdowski recently told De Telegraaf that the company is deciding whether to relocate its headquarters out of the Netherlands. That puts it with the 16% of Dutch companies considering moving at least part of their operations abroad within the next two years, according to a 2023 report commissioned by the Economic Affairs Ministry. Among organizations that are mainly global, that figure rose to about 33%.

Corporate leaders have expressed concern about possible restrictions on hiring foreign workers as well as existing regulations that complicate day-to-day business. Kaan Terzioglu, CEO of Amsterdam-listed telecommunications firm Veon Ltd, singled out the countrys visa schemes. Under the current rules, Terzioglu complained that hes rarely able to fly Pakistan and Bangladesh-based employees without EU passports over for meetings. It takes six months to get an appointment for a visa, he said.

Among the various firms uneasy with the current state of affairs, tech companies are the most influential.

Read more: The Dutch Question Centuries of Openness as They Go to the Polls

Semiconductor equipment manufacturer ASML, which has a 360 billion market capitalization, is so critical to the Dutch economy that Mark Rutte, the outgoing prime minister, set up a task force to ensure it didnt expand outside of the country. Yet it would be strongly affected by restrictions on hiring non-Dutch nationals. More than 40% of its employees in the Netherlands hail from abroad, as do more than half of new hires at chipmaker NXP. Roughly 70% of the staff in the Amsterdam office of DataSnipper, a company valued at $1 billion that uses AI in auditing software, are foreigners.

Should it become harder to find qualified candidates in the Netherlands, corporate leaders have warned that theyll follow the talent.

If the Netherlands shuts down and we cannot get immigrants or foreign students, then fine, you should accept the consequences, ASML Chief Executive Officer Peter Wennink said at a press conference in January. We are a global company, we will go where we need to go to make sure the company can grow and service our customers.

Although its become more apparent since the November election, the anti-immigrant, anti-business mood thats taken hold of the Netherlands has been brewing for years. Public attitudes towards big corporations began to sour during the financial crisis, according to business leaders, when Dutch taxpayers were forced to spend billions bailing out banks.

Read more: Euronext Warns Netherlands Risks Losing Allure for Global Firms

Rutte, who started his career as a human resources manager at Unilever and went on to lead the pro-business Peoples Party for Freedom and Democracy, has fought to keep the Netherlands attractive to businesses. In recent years, he has encouraged CEOs to appear on television shows to improve the Dutch publics dim view of big businesses, according to people familiar with the matter.

Even so, Rutte was unable to block measures to raise taxes on banks and tax share buybacks  moves he warned would lead to the departure of banks  as well as a dividend tax that targets multinationals. Nor could he stop Pieter Omtzigt, whose center-right party is now in coalition negotiations with Wilders, from cutting a tax benefit designed for expats.

Some companies have already acted in response to what they view as the countrys increasingly unfavorable tax measures. In 2021, energy giant Shell Plc opted to move its headquarters to London following the Dutch governments decision to tax dividends and a court ruling ordering it to speed up emission cuts.

In a recent parliamentary debate, Dutch economic affairs minister Micky Adriaansens expressed concern about the Netherlands global image. The shifting regulations are no longer an irritation, for companies, but a big issue. Business owners indicate that the unclear, changing policies are incredibly damaging to investing in the Netherlands.

With concern mounting, the Dutch finance ministry is currently working on alternative proposals to the bank and share buyback taxes as well as shrinking expatriate tax breaks. Ministry officials expect to present an outline to parliament in coming days, according to people familiar with the matter.

The outgoing cabinet is also considering allocating at least 1 billion in additional funds to the Eindhoven region, which is home to several Dutch technology companies including ASML, according to public broadcaster NOS.

In the meantime, any clarity about what might come next would be welcome.

Companies can live with populist governments, said Corne van Zeijl, a strategist at Cardano Asset Management.

The main problem is unpredictability  that they dont know what the government is going to do.

--With assistance from Diederik Baazil.

(Adds detail about cabinet plans to allocate money to Eindhoven, and clarifies that Datamaran is based in the Netherlands.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Gulf Business Machines (GBM), in collaboration with Cisco and Nutanix, has successfully hosted a groundbreaking event AI Powered Networking Cloud in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

The event showcased cutting-edge solutions aimed at simplifying IT infrastructure through a unified platform, securing networks and ensuring unparalleled scalability across networks and domains.

The event was attended by Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security in the UAE, among other distinguished dignitaries from the government and enterprise sectors.

It featured an engaging agenda that included keynote addresses and expert-led discussions focused on AI-powered Cisco Networking Cloud, full stack observability, next-generation cyber defense programmes like GBM Shield, and cloud infrastructure advancements. GBM also hosted several breakout sessions with Nutanix covering topics such as Full Stack Observability (FSO), Cybersecurity, and Cloud Infrastructure.

AI and networking cloud

The event highlighted the significance of AI and networking cloud, showcasing how these technologies play a crucial role in streamlining operations by enhancing connectivity, scalability, and efficiency.

The integration of artificial intelligence with cloud networking enables businesses to efficiently manage data, access real-time insights, and make agile decisions. Esteemed IT decision-makers and executives across various sectors, including banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI), government, healthcare, education, energy and utilities, retail, and manufacturing, gained valuable insights into leveraging the technologies to meet their dynamic business needs.

Al Kuwaiti emphasised the importance of embracing innovative AI and cybersecurity technologies to bolster the UAEs digital economy, stating: The UAE's reputation as a hub for innovation and creativity is a testament to its visionary leadership. We are excited about the potential of responsible AI to drive progress and ingenuity in the future.

Our commitment is to ensure resiliency for people, companies, and partners alike, fostering a landscape where innovation thrives and opportunities abound. Cultivating and sustaining a cybersecurity culture that permeates every sector is essential. This requires proactively detecting and mitigating risks through the use of advanced technologies like AI, forging a path towards a more secure and innovative future for all.

Tools and knowledge

Miguel Khouri, General Manager, GBM Abu Dhabi, said: Our aim is to empower organisations with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of todays cloud-based landscape. We want to ensure secure, efficient, and simplified networks and IT infrastructure for our customers to help them thrive in the era of AI.

We're advancing threat detection and risk mitigation for clouds and networks in the region, powered by GBM Shield, our flagship cyber defence programme. The event not only strengthened our synergies with Cisco and Nutanix but also set the stage for future collaborations and innovations.--TradeArabia News Service
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, March 27. Kazakh FlyArystan, a low-cost carrier, expands its route network in Uzbekistan and opens a new route Almaty - Namangan - Almaty, Trend reports.

According to FlyArystan, the flights will start in June 2024 and will be operated twice a week - on Mondays and Thursdays.

"We are pleased to offer our passengers affordable flights to one of the largest cities in Uzbekistan - Namangan. The Ferghana region has great potential for the people of Kazakhstan to develop trade and economic ties due to its rich agricultural sector and industrial opportunities," FlyArystan's Director of Route Network Planning and Revenue Management Renat Abulkhanov said.

Meanwhile, FlyArystan is launching a new route from Almaty to Nukus and back.

The airline states that the flights will begin in June 2024 and run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, three times a week.

FlyArystan resumed direct flights between Almaty and Samarkand last year after a lengthy hiatus, and in July of the same year, it started service between Tashkent and Astana.
The emergency department at Edinburgh's Royal Infirmary is one of Scotland's busiest A&Es

Doctors in Scotland's busiest emergency department have told hospital bosses they have no confidence in them dealing with growing patient safety concerns.

A total of 27 A&E consultants at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (RIE) wrote a letter of no confidence in the NHS Lothian executive board last year.

The doctors claimed they "currently cannot deliver safe, effective timely care for our patients".

NHS Lothian said it is working with them on a plan to improve the service.

News of the letter comes as A&E consultants at Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) and in NHS Grampian have been raising similar concerns about patient safety.

They are calling for a Scotland-wide review of emergency treatment provision.

In May last year Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) published an inspection report warning the RIE emergency department was at times operating at 300% of its capacity.

The safety watchdog found "multiple systemic failures" over two visits to the A&E.

The following month, 27 emergency department consultants signed a letter to Prof John Connaghan, NHS Lothian's chairman, to state their "loss of confidence" in the board's executives to deal with "sustained and worsening patient safety issues" raised over the three previous years.

The letter stated: "We are trained to provide emergency and urgent care in the first hours after attendance, not for protracted periods of time beyond 12 hours and into days."

The consultants pointed out there was a 80% increase in their workload during 2022 and the increased pressure on the A&E was "disproportionate" compared to other departments at the hospital.

The doctors warn that if things continue as they are then "significant patient morbidity and mortality will continue to occur".

Prof Connaghan and senior executives met with the consultants after receiving their letter and NHS Lothian said they agreed improvement actions.

The emergency department at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh is dealing with far more patients than it was originally designed for

The emergency department at the RIE, which opened in 2003, was built to accommodate up to 90,000 attendances per year but is now dealing with 135,000 per year.

The types of concerns raised about the RIE emergency department have been raised by doctors around Scotland in recent years.

Nearly every A&E consultant at Glasgow's QEUH wrote to Healthcare Improvement Scotland to warn patient safety was being "seriously compromised".

They offered 18 months' worth of evidence of overcrowding and staff shortages to back their claims which were not initially fully investigated by the watchdog.

Elsewhere, in August last year a group of senior doctors accused NHS Grampian of ignoring their safety concerns about emergency departments in Elgin and Aberdeen.

'Significant pressure'

Michelle Carr, chief officer of acute services at NHS Lothian, said it takes staff concerns "extremely seriously" and is working through an improvement plan for the emergency department in conjunction with the consultants.

She added: "NHS Lothian, like all other health boards in Scotland, remains under significant pressure. Our hospitals are experiencing high numbers of patients, as well as increase in trauma cases and acuity of illness.

"Overall occupancy remains high and we are working with teams throughout the hospital and in Health and Social Partnerships to ensure patients continue to receive safe, effective and timeous care, and flow back into the community as soon as they are well enough to do so.

The health executive also pointed out the "RIE is the busiest and largest hospital in NHS Lothian as well as one of the major trauma centres for some of the sickest and most seriously injured patients in south-east Scotland."
Eagle Pass, Texas, has been one of the hot spots of the ongoing migrant crisis at the southern border  as well as the epicenter of a broader stalemate between Texas and the Biden administration over how to handle the crisis, which has led to multiple high-profile battles in the nation's highest courts.

Drone footage taken by Fox News on Tuesday showed a relatively quiet scene at the crossing point, where Mexico is a stones throw away.

The presence of the crisis remains, however, with Texas having set up razor wire and shipping containers along the border and National Guardsmen patrolling the area.

BIDEN, TEXAS FEUD OVER ANTI-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION LAW AS MIGRANTS RUSH BORDER: WHAT TO KNOW

Texas National Guardsmen wait near a boat ramp where law enforcement enter the Rio Grande at Shelby Park on Jan. 26, 2024, in Eagle Pass, Texas.

Texas and the Biden administration have feuded over how to handle border security since the start of the crisis. Abbott launched Operation Lone Star in 2021, which surged resources and personnel to the border, in response to what he claimed was a lack of action from the Biden administration to handle the then-surging crisis.

MIGRANT ENCOUNTERS AT SOUTHERN BORDER HIT NEW FEBRUARY RECORD HIGH

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Abbott's administration began building a border wall, constructed razor wire along the Rio Grande, set up floating buoys in the river and deployed the National Guard. In December, Abbott signed an anti-illegal immigration law that would allow police to arrest illegal immigrants and for judges to order them deported.

Those efforts led to legal battles with the administration. Texas sued the administration for cutting the razor wire to allow migrants deeper into the interior, while the administration sued over the presence of the buoys in the Rio Grande.

In January, those tensions boiled over when Texas seized Shelby Park, a key staging area in Eagle Pass, and Border Patrol was denied entry to the area. Abbott said Texas has a right to "self-defense" against what he has called federal inaction in the face of a migrant "invasion."

MEXICO SLAMS TEXAS OVER IMMIGRATION LAW, WON'T ACCEPT REPATRIATIONS FROM STATE AFTER SCOTUS RULING

"[President Biden's] actions have caused an unprecedented invasion that we must defend against," Abbott said.

The administration has said Texas' actions impede upon federal enforcement of immigration law and make the areas less safe for migrants and Border Patrol.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE IMMIGRATION COVERAGE

"Whether it is leaving migrants on the side of the road in the dead of winter, installing razor wire to make Border Patrols job more dangerous, promoting extreme and unconstitutional laws like S.B. 4, or his latest actions in Eagle Pass, Governor Abbott has repeatedly proven that he is not interested in solutions and only seeks to politicize the border," the White House said in a statement during the Shelby Pass drama.

The anti-illegal immigration law was back in the courts this month, when the Supreme Court briefly allowed the law to go back into effect before kicking it back to the Fifth Circuit  which then blocked it again amid ongoing arguments on the merits.

Separately, there were a record-high number of migrant encounters in February, suggesting that numbers could be similar or even higher than those seen last year.





Original article source: How Eagle Pass became the centerpiece of Abbotts efforts to secure the border
The Lyon Apartments, 660 E. 5th St., was converted into a mixed-use apartment building in 2015. It was built in 1970.

East Village high-rise the Lyon Apartments will attempt to evict bar and events space Pura Social Club after a shooting took place on the premises last weekend, according to a memo sent to the building's residents.

"We are scheduling a call with our attorney to strategize the eviction of the restaurant involved in this incident," said the Monday email signed by the Lyon Apartments Property Management team. "Our goal is to ensure that any entity on our premises does not compromise the safety and peace of our community."

The Sunday shooting, which left two hospitalized, occurred in Pura's parking lot, Des Moines police spokesperson Sgt. Paul Parizek said. The property managers said in their memo it involved guests at the venue, though Pura's owner, Uriah Mixdorf, told the Des Moines Register the shooting actually happened across the street after security staff had cleared out the lot following their 1 a.m. closure.

A notice emailed to residents of the Lyon Apartments Monday.

Until police roped off the intersection of East Fifth and Lyon streets, Mixdorf said, he hadn't been aware that an altercation took place.

"It's unfortunate. It's tragic, but it's completely unfair," he said. "If anybody knows me, my family and my team, they know that we want to do nothing but provide a safe environment. We're not there to encourage bad behavior."

Building owner previously looked to free up space

Pura Social Club in Des Moines' East Village.

The building's owner, Denver-based private investment group VareCo, did not respond to requests for comment. However, the group hasn't been coy about its hopes to covert the building's remaining commercial space into apartments.

The 660 E. Fifth St. complex was a sparsely populated senior housing complex called Heather Manor before its 2015 conversion into a mixed-use building with 103 apartments and 5,000 square feet of commercial space. At 11 stories, according to Polk County assessor records, it's the second-tallest building in the East Village  only shorter than the Iowa Capitol.

An inpatient clinic attached to the tower vacated when its lease expired a year after the conversion, allowing that portion to become 23 market-rate apartment units and 2,300 square feet of commercial space on the ground level.

Some of that commercial space has been empty since VareCo purchased the building in October 2022, Daniel Doyle, a representative of the group, told the Register in January. The managers since have worked to amend a development agreement with the city to allow a portion of the building's first floor to be converted into seven apartments.

Panoramic views of the East Village can be seen Tuesday, June 2, 2015, from atop the building that would be renamed the Lyon Apartments.

The units could be available in April.

"I don't want to comment on anything currently going on," Doyle said in January when asked about the future of Pura Social Club. "Whenever there's an opportunity for affordable housing, we want to play our part in it."

In the memo, the group told tenants, "We are committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure The Lyon is a secure and welcoming environment for everyone."

Mixdorf said he hadn't been aware of the memo.

"Nobody said anything to us," he said.

Pura owner takes issue with comparison to troubled Ingersoll Avenue bar

A glass of whiskey and a look at the downtown Des Moines skyline at the Pura Social Club in Des Moines' East Village.

Pura opened two years ago in May in a space with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide a Des Moines skyline view. Faced with a decline in business, Mixdorf converted the cocktail bar and lounge into an event space in November. They've hosted shows, private dinners, parties and rehearsals as well as rented out their kitchen.

Since then, Mixdorf said, Pura's only had one other incident where police had to be contacted, after a group refused to leave at closing time.

Staff pat down or check over guests with a hand held metal detector before entry, he added. It also has unarmed security guards inside and outside the venue as needed.

After the shooting Sunday, he said, he and his wife received messages on social media and voicemails making them out to be "deviants."

"They're comparing us to Zora," Mixdorf said, speaking of the notorious, now-closed bar on Ingersoll Avenue, which the city sued as a "public nuisance."

"Wait a minute," he said. "Zora had 75 police calls in a single year. We had no calls. It's very upsetting."

Addison Lathers covers growth and development for the Des Moines metro. Reach her at 608-931-1761 and ALathers@registermedia.com, and follow her on Twitter at @addisonlathers.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: East Village's Pura Social Club could be evicted after shootings
The products were shown to be made from less eco-friendly fast-growing virgin hardwoods, such as eucalyptus - MICHIERU

Eco-friendly lavatory paper companies have been found to be misleading consumers over claims their products are made with 100 per cent bamboo.

Fibre-composition testing carried out by consumer champion Which? on five popular brands claiming to be bamboo only or 100 per cent bamboo revealed some contain tiny amounts of the material.

Samples from Bumboo showed just 2.7 per cent of its lavatory paper is composed of bamboo, a fibre often touted as a green alternative to virgin pulp, while brands Naked Sprout and Bazoo contained 4 per cent and 26.1 per cent respectively.

Instead, the products were shown to be made from less eco-friendly fast-growing virgin hardwoods, such as eucalyptus.

Acacia, which has been associated with damaging deforestation in places such as Indonesia, was also found in small levels in Bazoo and Bumboos lavatory paper.

Bazoo, Bumboo and Naked Sprout advertise themselves as sustainable brands, with Bazoo claiming it is 100 per cent tree free and Bumboo citing its FSC-certified 100 per cent bamboo from well-managed forests.

Naked Sprout claims it sells the UKs most sustainable tissue products, and told Which? its products are bamboo only.

All three companies source their bamboo from China, and say they use Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified bamboo.

Ensuring quality control

Which? said the findings highlight the challenges UK firms can face with ensuring quality control when materials for their products are sourced from overseas countries such as China.

Two other brands, Who Gives a Crap (WGAC) and The Cheeky Panda, were also tested by Which?, and were shown to contain 100 per cent bamboo, as claimed.

Emily Seymour, Which? sustainability editor, said: Given so many shoppers are taking steps to be more sustainable, its vital they can trust claims made by brands  particularly when they are paying more for a product they believe is better for the environment.

Businesses must take responsibility for ensuring their products contain what they say on the packaging so that shoppers who want to make sustainable choices can trust the information they are given.

Bumboo said it had identified an issue in [its] supply chain and taken swift action so this can never happen again.

It said it was now using the gold standard TAPPI T 401 test to verify the fibre composition of every batch and publishing the results on its website.

Bazoo said it undergoes extensive auditing with the FSC. It also told Which? its bamboo manufacturer is 100 per cent FSC-certified and this is checked and audited every six months, and it is investigating this currently with the FSC body and its manufacturer in depth.

Strict audit trail

Naked Sprout  which last month announced it would be the official toilet roll supplier for this years Glastonbury festival  said that the bamboo pulp it uses is verified by a strict audit trail, also used by the FSC, of its supply chain and raw materials used.

It said its supply chain is deliberately small, consisting of only four suppliers and one manufacturer and, as a result, all materials used are FSC-certified and fully traceable from raw material to end product.

Which?s testing was done at an independent lab using an industry standard test known as TAPPI T 401 that breaks down a sample of paper into its constituent fibres to quantify and identify them.

Naked Sprout claimed there were limitations with TAPPI T 401 and disputed the objectivity and validity of the test method.

TAPPI (Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry) said it saw no contradictions in Which?s application of the test method and that it seems disingenuous to suggest that a test method applied successfully to other brands tested for this article would be inadequate for Naked Sprout.

The FSC said: We are concerned to discover that Which?s fibre-testing of some FSC-labelled toilet rolls, claimed to contain only bamboo fibre, indicates that they are made using wood-fibre in addition to bamboo. Since being approached by Which?, we have contacted the brands in question to gather further information and alerted FSCs Supply Chain Integrity Team to this case.

FSC is the worlds most trusted sustainable forest management solution and from forest to store, we are committed to supporting credible supply chains. We take our integrity seriously and are committed to working with the organisations involved to ensure this is fully investigated and any appropriate action taken to ensure FSC labels accurately reflect the composition of FSC-certified products.

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Ecuadorian police and people gather at the scene where Ecuador's youngest mayor, Brigitte Garcia was found shot dead in a car, according to the police, near San Vicente

Ecuadorian police and people gather at the scene where Ecuador's youngest mayor, Brigitte Garcia was found shot dead in a car, according to the police, near San Vicente

By Alexandra Valencia

QUITO (Reuters) - Forty-five mayors in Ecuador have requested police protection in the past year as violence grips the country, where 22 local officials have died in violent circumstances since 2023, the executive director of the Association of Ecuadorean Municipalities (AME) said.

Officials have come under threat amid a national crackdown on criminal groups. President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency in January and designated 22 gangs as terrorist groups after armed men stormed a television channel in Guayaquil and more than a hundred prison guards were held hostage.

The crisis escalated last weekend when the bodies of Brigitte Garcia, the 27-year-old mayor of San Vicente, and Jairo Loor, her communications director, were found in a car in the province of Manabi. Both had been shot to death, police said.

Garcia, who represented a city on Ecuador's coast, was the second mayor to have been killed since 2023.

Agustin Intriago, the mayor of Manta, was killed during a tour of a neighborhood in the coastal city in July, 2023, some two weeks before the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio in Quito, the capital. Villavicencio had campaigned as an anti-corruption candidate.

Seventeen Ecuadorean mayors have been granted police security protection by the government while others have hired private security, Homero Castanier, executive director of the AME, which represents the country's 221 mayors, said late on Tuesday.

Galo Meza, the mayor of Balzar, in Guayas province, is among those who has requested police protection. He told local media on Tuesday that gunmen on Monday night had fired 65 shots at his house, where his wife and son were staying.

"It's a very complex scenario," Castanier said in an interview. "Mayors ... are risking their lives, working with bulletproof vests, surrounded by firearms."

Ecuador's mayors face threats and violence from organized crime groups "who have penetrated every level" of society, Castanier said, adding that mayors in coastal municipalities are at higher risk of being attacked.

The country's ports, including in Guayaquil, the largest city, have become hubs for drug smuggling.

"Right now it's important to carry out a risk analysis for every mayor in the country (...) early warnings can be used to prevent attacks," Castanier added.

Noboa, who took power late last year after winning a run-off election, said on Monday that Garcia's killing is a reminder that narco-terrorists had penetrated public institutions.

(This story has been refiled to change Homero Castanier's title from president to executive director of the Association of Ecuadorean Municipalities, in paragraphs 1 and 6)

(Reporting by Alexandra Valencia; Writing by Oliver Griffin; Editing by Paul Simao)
Abortion-rights activists rally Tuesday outside the Supreme Court. At stake is the ease of access to a medication used last year in nearly two-thirds of U.S. abortions. (Jose Luis Magana / Associated Press)

It always seemed farfetched that anti-abortion doctors could argue that they have the right to ask a court to severely restrict a drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration simply because they don't want to treat women who might experience complications.

Do they even have standing to bring this case? Do they have any proof they have been so harmed or injured that it justifies restricting FDA-approved access to mifepristone, the first in a two-drug regimen for medication abortion?

Read more: Editorial: A right to IVF or abortion will never be protected if fetuses and embryos are declared people

These are among the questions raised when the Supreme Court heard oral arguments Tuesday in a case from Texas by the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, an anti-abortion group that claims the FDA did not adequately study mifepristone before putting it on the market in 2000.

Last year, U.S. District Court Judge Matthew J. Kacsmaryk  a staunch opponent of abortion  ruled in favor of the alliance, which wants the drug pulled from the market. The Biden administration appealed to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, which allowed doctors to continue to prescribe mifepristone, with the caveat that the medication be used as it was approved in 2000. The FDA lifted various rules and restrictions on its use in 2016 and 2021. (The Supreme Court put the court's changes on hold while the case moves through the appeals process.)

It is a relief that the justices seemed skeptical that a group of doctors who don't prescribe abortion medication has the legal right to lodge a complaint against an approved drug that has been safely used for more than two decades. (Serious complications occur in less than a third of 1% of uses.) They spent most of their time asking questions about standing and much less about whether mifepristone would be safer with more restrictions.

Read more: Opinion: How the GOP fixation on abortion could help Democrats retake the House

This suggests that the justices may end up siding with the FDA when handing down the ruling, possibly in a few months. If they were to rule against the FDA, it would be a nightmare, enacting sweeping restrictions on the most common form of abortion in the country.

Last year, 63% of the 1 million abortions performed in clinic settings in the U.S. were provided through medication. Even California and other states with robust abortion protections would see access to medication abortion restricted.

For example, if the Supreme Court decides medication abortion should be available only under regulations in effect before 2016, that will end the practice of getting prescriptions through telehealth appointments and the mail. It could shorten the window in which pregnant women can get prescriptions and increase the number of required in-person doctor visits. Overall, the burden of more restrictions would fall hardest on people who have the most difficult time getting access to any method of abortion.

Read more: Abcarian: Bravo to France for enshrining the right to abortion in its constitution  a worldwide first

A ruling in favor of the plaintiffs could open the way for challenges to FDA approval for other pharmaceuticals and could perhaps have a chilling effect on the development of new drugs.

Justice Neil M. Gorsuch asked Tuesday if the plaintiff doctors remedy for their injuries  rolling back restrictions on the drugs  was going way beyond what was necessary.

We say over and over again: Provide a remedy sufficient to address the plaintiff's asserted injuries, and go no further, he said. But this case seems like a prime example of turning what could be a small lawsuit into a nationwide legislative assembly on ... an FDA rule or any other federal government action.

We agree that it would be the wrong course to take for a drug that's statistically safer than Tylenol, which is available over the counter. So it's encouraging to hear skepticism from a justice who voted with the conservative majority when the Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade in 2022, returning the matter of abortion to state legislatures.

Perhaps the most ominous moment came when Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. asked whether the FDA should have considered the Comstock Act before allowing the drugs to be mailed. That moribund relic of a morals law from the 19th century says nothing having to do with abortion can be sent through the mail. But the Justice Department has already said it's legal in most cases to mail drugs that can be used to perform abortions. The court should leave the Comstock Act out of its deliberations.

Even for a court that has been opposed to abortion, the decision here should be straightforward and obvious. This case was never about abortion laws. It's about the FDA's authority to make decisions. Judges should not be weighing in on how to prescribe any drugs, including those used for abortions.

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.
In setting defendant Donald Trumps felony trial date for three weeks hence on the Stormy Daniels hush money/election inference case, Acting Manhattan state Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan said Monday that Trumps delays to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs prosecution were all done. So ordered.

Of all 366 days of this year, April 15, Tax Day, is so deliciously appropriate for Trump, who at age 77, has grifted for probably 70 of those years.

On the day Trumps trial opens and jury selection begins, President Biden will release his 2023 tax returns, a traditional act for presidents and White House contenders.

Of course, Trump was the first and only presidential candidate in a half century to not release his 1040s and it was only the House of Representatives, which had to win a case before the U.S. Supreme Court, that finally published his returns, for the tax years 2015 through 2020.

Trump is running again, but dont expect to see him voluntarily showing the public his returns, although eight years ago, his running mate, Mike Pence, did show 10 years of returns.

Trump chroniclers who long predate his presidential adventures that began with the escalator ride into the basement of Trump Tower (a basement where theres very little beyond two public restrooms near spots for some long-gone pay phones) the late Wayne Barrett, David Cay Johnston and Tim OBrien, all knew many many years ago that Donalds taxes told the real story of this gold-plated phony.

We were new to the Trump tax hunt game in 2016 when we proved using the New York STAR property tax break that the supposed billionaires federal adjusted gross income was less than $500,000. Thats under a half million dollars and not missing any zeroes.

And taxes, or rather, breaking New York tax law, is part of this criminal case. Bragg has charged that by hiding the payments to Daniels to remain mum about their tryst, Trump violated sections 1801(a)(3) and 1802 of state law tax.

Trump said after the court hearing that, This is election interference. Thats all that is. He has a point, but not about Braggs theoretical interference in the 2024 presidential election. In fact, the trial may interfere in the 2024 contest by boosting Trumps popularity among his base, as his legal travails in civil and criminal court have been his best way to campaign for the Republican nomination, which he has now bagged.

However, that the trial is happening while Trump is running again for the presidency is his own affair (pun intended).

As to criminal election interference, that is exactly what Bragg is charging, related to Trumps alleged criminal interference in the 2016 presidential election. Beside the tax law, Bragg is saying that Trump violated federal and New York campaign laws during the 2016 election by hiding his embarrassing sexual dalliance with a porn film actress.

Merchan and the lawyers for Bragg and Trump will have to find a dozen Manhattanites to fairly hear and weigh this case. Yes, its about a tawdry fling and successful effort to cover it up, but its also about if the man who was once the most powerful in the world  and may yet be again  can be held to the same standard of justice as an ordinary New Yorker.

We believe that he can be.

___
Four private colleges described as being "dysfunctional" have been ordered to close in South Africa, leaving thousands of students in limbo.

They had fabricated exam results, as well as other issues, said Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande.

The institutions have failed to submit audited financial statements since 2020, the education department said.

The colleges are owned by Educor, one of the largest private education providers in southern Africa.

Educor is yet to respond to a BBC inquiry about the allegations.

It runs educational institutions on more than 60 campuses in South Africa and internationally.

The colleges, Damelin, CityVarsity, Icesa City Campus and Lyceum College located around the country, have been given until the end of the year to cease operations.

Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande told journalists that after a large-scale investigation into the colleges, serious issues had been brought to his attention.

Mr Nzimande labelled the colleges "dysfunctional" due to a number of complaints received from students and workers, "most of which remain unresolved".

Some students complained about the poor quality of teaching and learning, lack of administrative support and lack of professionalism, the minister said.

There have been allegations of non-payment of staff salaries and corruption, he added.

The Educor institutions also inflated their numbers so as to hide their declining student population, according to the minister.

The provider said it had 50,000 students, however its 2022 annual reports indicate a total enrolment of 13,096 students across all four institutions, he said.

Mr Nzimande also said that some students' examination marks were fabricated.

"That's the worst sin that can be committed by an education institution, whether public or private  you cannot just lie and give students marks based on scripts that were never marked," the minister said.

Additionally, the colleges are said to have failed to submit audited annual financial statements and to obtain tax clearance to prove their financial viability.

The Department of Higher Education and Training has been in the process of deregistering the private institutions since July 2023 but the final decision was made last Friday.

More than 13,000 students will be affected by the decision, with some left stranded without accommodation.

Education authorities have urged affected students to transfer to other institutions.

Parents have been visiting the colleges to demand answers and fees that they had paid for the year's tuition.

The South African Union of Students welcomed the deregistration of the colleges, saying the decision was in the best interests of students, local media reported.

The South African Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu) said Educor had been "mistreating employees and students for too long".

More South Africa stories from the BBC:
The couple's cruise, called 'Northwest Passage  in the Wake of the Great Explorers', was set to travel through the waters of Arctic Canada - Champion News

An elderly couple have won an 80,000 fight with a travel company after their Arctic cruise was diverted because of cold weather, a court heard.

Nicholas Sherman, 76, and wife Rosemary, 75, who spent recent years travelling to countries including Antarctica, Canada, Singapore, New Zealand, South Africa and India, booked a trip of a lifetime in 2018 to sail around the Arctic.

The cruise, called Northwest Passage  in the Wake of the Great Explorers, was set to travel through the waters of Arctic Canada on a similar route that Captain Sir John Franklins doomed 19th-century Erebus voyage took.

But their September 2018 trip was ruined by sea ice created by colder than usual weather and, in a change to the itinerary, their ship instead spent most of its time around Greenland, with some time at the Passages Baffin Island.

The couple later sued Reader Offers Ltd, which they had used to book the trip, for their 20,000 ticket price back. They initially lost the case and were handed a 60,000 legal bill at Winchester county court.

The couple, who represented themselves, later appealed and had the verdict reversed in their favour at the High Court in February last year, with the decision now confirmed by Court of Appeal judges.

The decision means they could be due about 20,000 and will not have to pay the 60,000 court bill they were initially handed, with Reader Offers now forced to cover its own legal costs.

In the now upheld High Court judgment in the case, Mrs Justice Collins Rice told how the seasoned, not to say intrepid, travellers had learned of the cruise.

Mr Sherman, a former IT industry director and Mrs Sherman, who worked for their village GP, were on another Arctic cruise in December 2017 when they met and became firm friends with another couple, who told them of the Northwest Passage cruise they were intending to take in September 2018.

The Shermans imagination was immediately fired up, said the judge.

Mrs Sherman has Canadian heritage and the Shermans are frequent fliers to visit her family there.

And Mr Sherman has the distinction of being a descendant of one of the explorers of the legendary Northwest Passage, after whom Sherman Inlet in Nunavut is named.

Lord Justice Underhill, Lady Justice Asplin and Lord Justice Males dismissed Reader Offers appeal and sent the case back to the county court to decide what compensation the Shermans are due.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Sherman said: To be honest, this case has nothing to do with the money, adding that it was about principle and protecting travellers in similar circumstances in the future.

Our purpose is not the money, it is to stop it happening again, he said.

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A couple in their 70s won a lawsuit against a cruise operator after they successfully argued the company was in the wrong to cancel their Arctic cruise over cold weather without returning their money.

The couple said they were suing because their cruise of a lifetime, billed as a voyage through the Northwest Passagein the Wake of the Great Explorers, was hardly that.

Instead of sailing through the treacherous waters of Arctic Canada, the couple said they mostly just cruised the coast of Greenland, with some time at Baffin Island. The cruise operator, Reader Offers, offered apologies and cited abnormally cold weather and ice as the reason the trip couldnt go on as planned but offered no compensation for the letdown.

That didnt sit well with the intrepid Nicholas Sherman, 76, and his wife, Rosemary, 75. They took Reader Offers to court in 2018, demanding their $25,000 in ticket costs back.

It wasnt a straightforward court victory for the Shermans, however. They initially lost their lawsuit at the U.K.s Winchester County Court and, to add insult to injury, were ordered to pay $75,000 to cover Reader Offers legal fees.

Officials Reveal Where $1.13 BILLION Lottery Ticket Was Sold

The couple appealed, however, and had better luck. A verdict ruled in their favor in the High Court last year, and that decision was confirmed by British Court of Appeal judges last week, the The Times reported.

The decision means they stand to reclaim the entire $25,000 they spent on their tickets and wont have to pony up $75,000 to cover Reader Offers lawyer feesan amount thats sure to be enough to cover their next adventure.

In court, the couple revealed theyve been traversing the globe in their retirement, including stops in Antarctica, Canada, Singapore, New Zealand, South Africa, and India.

While theyve touched down in nearly every corner of the earth, the couple claimed that the disappointment from their canceled cruise, which was supposed to take them throughout Arctic Canada on a weeks-long voyage, was particularly gutting because of their personal ties to the trip.

For one, they argued, Rosemary Sherman is Canadian herself, and the trip would have been an opportunity for her to see the less-visited parts of her country in all its beauty. Her husband also said it was perhaps his only opportunity to visit the Sherman Inlet in Nunavut, Canada, which is named after his forebear, Civil War general William Tecumseh Sherman.

After the ruling, Nicholas Sherman said the case had nothing to do with the money and was instead about principle, the Times reported. He said he hopes his court victory will protect other travelers in similar circumstances in the future.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, March 27. The Head of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov arrived in Uzbekistan's Surkhandarya region on a working visit, Trend reports.

According to the Surkhandarya region press service, the governor of the region, Ulugbek Kasimov, met the Head of Tatarstan at Termez International Airport.

The Head of Tatarstan intends to visit production facilities, familiarize himself with the industrial and economic potential of the region, and meet with the leadership of the region.

Meanwhile, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Tatarstan increased by 27 percent and reached $370 million by the end of 2023.
Three people  two incumbents and a challenger  have launched campaigns for a pair of Rancho Mirage City Council seats that will be on the November ballot. With several months left before the filing deadline, more candidates could emerge.

For now, the three candidates are Councilmembers Ted Weill and Michael OKeefe and challenger Wayne Avrashow.

Weill, the current mayor pro tem who has served on the council since 2012, confirmed he would seek another term in a campaign announcement last week.

Its been an honor to serve on the Rancho Mirage City Council for the past 12 years, Weill, a Navy veteran who has worked in real estate with a focus on master-planned communities, said in a prepared statement.

Ive worked hard every day to serve as an accessible, responsive, and effective advocate and deliver results for residents, he added. Im proud of what weve accomplished together, and I look forward to continuing to serve our great city.

OKeefe was appointed to the council in December from a field of 11 applicants, following the resignation of long-time councilmember Richard Kite.

OKeefe, who served on the citys cultural commission before his appointment and most recently worked as researcher and writer for the Health in Aging Institute, moved to Del Webb Rancho Mirage in 2019 after living in Desert Hot Springs, where he also served on several boards.

In an announcement last week, OKeefe said his time on the council has allowed me to use the skills I developed while volunteering for charities and city governments, adding he will strive to protect the citys financial health, promote tourism and local businesses and advocate for conscientious growth if elected.

I am committed to preserving the cultural and architectural history of Rancho Mirage while working towards a secure future for our City, OKeefe said.

His campaign announcement included endorsements from the other four current members of the council, along with Kite. The council decided late last year to appoint a new member rather than hold a special election, citing the $114,000 cost of a standalone special election for Kites brief remaining term.

The only other person to file a candidacy intention statement with the city clerk so far is Avrashow, an attorney who previously worked in Los Angeles city government before recently moving to Rancho Mirage.

In his campaign announcement and during the councils November meeting, Avrashow was critical of the council deciding to appoint a replacement for Kite. He noted that three of its five current members  Weill, OKeefe and Mayor Steve Downs  were initially appointed to the council before seeking full terms. (Weill was first elected in 2014, while Downs won a seat in the city's 2022 election.)

This scheme of constant appointments fails to pass the smell test on transparent governance, Avrashow said in a campaign press release.

Among his specific plans, Avrashow said he would push for some council meetings to be held at 5 p.m., instead of the usual 1 p.m. slot, while creating ways for residents to testify virtually on matters before the council. Noting how crucial sales and transient occupancy taxes are for the city, he also said he would push to create an ombudsman" at city hall to retain, assist and attract local businesses.

We deserve a Rancho Mirage City Council that matches the sophistication of our citys residents, Avrashow said. California has a massive budget deficit looming, and my experience will aid the city in navigating through the stormy waters of reductions in state spending that can impact our city.

Several months remain for other candidates to emerge in the race for the two open council seats. The citys nomination period officially opens July 15 and runs through Aug. 9.

The citywide election will be held along with the presidential election on Nov. 5.

Tom Coulter covers the cities of Palm Desert, La Quinta, Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells. Reach him at thomas.coulter@desertsun.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Election 2024: Two incumbents, newcomer run for Rancho Mirage council
ELMIRA HEIGHTS, N.Y. (WETM)  A popular gas station in Elmira Heights will soon have a new name and owners after the store closed its doors on Wednesday.

Fastrac Cafe off of College Avenue in Elmira Heights closed on Wednesday after a note was posted on the door saying that new ownership would reopen the location soon.

Hornell approves 2024-2025 budgets, tax rate decreases

A worker inside told 18 News that the business was bought out and the new owners are from New York City.

The building is to remain a gas station with the worker saying it will become the Elmira Heights Deli, but no timetable has been set as to when it will reopen.

18 News will provide more updates when more information is made available.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
PORTSMOUTH  Granite Shore Power will permanently end coal-fired operations at Schiller Station and plans to convert the defunct facility into a battery energy storage system.

Granite Shore Power is additionally ending coal-fired operations at Merrimack Station in Bow, as part of a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency  following lawsuits by the Conservation Law Foundation and the Sierra Club.

Jim Andrews, chief executive officer of Granite Shore Power, announced the transition on behalf of the Bow-based company on Wednesday, a decision made after years of opposition against the plants by clean energy advocates.

The facilities in Portsmouth and Bow were the last two coal plants in New England, marking the start of a new era in clean energy sources in New Hampshire as Granite Shore Power intends to turn both into "renewable energy parks," the company revealed Wednesday.

Granite Shore Power announced that it will permanently cease coal-fired operations at Schiller Station in Portsmouth, seen here, and Merrimack Station in Bow. Schiller Station has not been operational since 2020 but will be converted into a battery energy storage system facility named the Jacona II, an homage to pre-World War II power generation in Portsmouth.

Schiller Station has operated since 1949. Adversaries have long called for the reduction of emissions and closure of the 155 megawatt facility, which has two, dual fuel units capable of firing coal or fuel oil, in addition to a fuel oil-fired combustion turbine and a biomass boiler.

What is a battery energy storage system?

Granite Shore Power touted the plant's replacement, the soon-to-be battery energy storage system, as a means of support for future offshore wind developments in Marthas Vineyard and the Gulf of Maine.

Theres a significant amount of load within Portsmouth, Andrews said in an interview Wednesday afternoon. The Seacoast is probably one of the states largest load areas. Having on-demand clean power to shave the peak is going to be critical and thats exactly what this battery storage system does. Itll be where the old coal pile was for Schiller Station. No one will even notice it in the neighborhood because itll be low and obscure, but itll be a critical resource to advance other renewable energy resources, as well.

The battery energy storage system will be named the Jacona II in honor of a vessel that brought power to Portsmouth and Bucksport, Maine for a time during the early 20th century.

The 396-foot-long Jacona ship, completed in April 1919 for the United States Shipping Board, was used as a freighter until 1930, when the vessel was converted into a non-self-propelled floating power barge, according to Naval History and Heritage Command. Purchased by the New England Public Service Company, the ship was anchored at the Schiller Station site in Portsmouth to provide power on land.

The significance behind that is the original power generation at the Schiller Station property was provided by a floating generation plant that was known as the Jacona, and it was tied off of our port there at the Piscataqua River, Andrews explained.

I wanted to honor the memory of the original power generation at Schiller Station from the Jacona, and were bringing it full circle to the Jacona II, he told Seacoastonline.

The Jacona ship was later used by the U.S. military in the Pacific and at Korean ports, then was taken off the Navys vessel register in May 1971.

Granite Shore Power is working in tandem with ISO New England to develop Jacona II at the Schiller Station site. Andrews expects Jacona II to be fully operational in two to three years time.

This is frankly a sizable capital project, so the construction of it would be in a short period of time, Andrews said Wednesday. I dont want to speculate on the numbers but there will be sizable economic and job activity for the Seacoast and the region in terms of construction.

Schiller Station has not operated since 2020, according to Andrews.

Workers at the nearby Granite Shore Power-owned Newington Station have maintained Schiller Station and conducted rounds of the facility since workers at the Portsmouth plant were laid off.

Its remained available in the system and stack, but it has not operated, Andrews said of Schiller Station. We made a decision back then to lay the unit up. We had COVID at the time and it was sort of where things were at. We made the decision to just pull back and reserve. We sort of looked at it a few winters ago when things looked like they may be crazy in the wintertime, but we never got the unit back on.

Praising the end of coal power in NH

The Conservation Law Foundation lauded the end of coal-fired operations in Portsmouth and Bow on Wednesday.

The Conservation Law Foundation noted Schiller Station will not operate its coal-fired boilers past Dec. 31, 2025, while the Bow plant will stop operating its coal-fired burners by June 1, 2028.

The end of coal in New Hampshire, and for the New England region as a whole, is now certain and in sight, shared Tom Irwin, vice president of the Conservation Law Foundation in New Hampshire. Now we must vigorously push for the phaseout of other polluting fuels like oil and gas. New England is positioned to be a leader in building a future where our energy comes from 100% clean sources, and fossil fuels no longer pollute the climate and threaten the health of our communities.

The Sierra Club additionally hailed the agreement, reporting that New Hampshire is the 16th state in the country to go coal-free.

Today, we celebrate as, at long last, New Hampshire joins our coal-free neighbors across New England, said Cathy Corkery, senior organizer of the New Hampshire Sierra Club, in a prepared statement Wednesday. Local communities have long unjustly shouldered the burden of health and safety concerns caused by Merrimack Station and Schiller Stations pollution. Now, after years of advocacy by the local Sierra Club community, volunteers, advocates, and allies, an end is in sight. With coal soon gone, New Hampshire can lead the region in clean energy development and reap the economic and health benefits for generations of Granite State families.

This historic victory is a testament to the strength and resolve of those who never wavered in the fight for their communities and future, added Ben Jealous, the Sierra Clubs executive director. The people of New Hampshire and all of New England will soon breathe cleaner air and drink safer water, and Im incredibly proud to see the region continue to grow as a leader in the clean energy transition.

The nationwide environmental organization shared in a news release that the two stations are the 380th and 381st coal plant retirements that the Sierra Club has backed.

The Portsmouth generation station is located at 400 Gosling Road on 81 acres along the western end of the Piscataqua River.

The controversial Bow facility has a 482 megawatt capability across two coal-fired steam units and two kerosene fueled combustion turbine units.

"Merrimack Station has been an important, yet limited, part of New Hampshires energy infrastructure for many years," Granite Shore Power said Wednesday. "It will continue to be a vital resource when energy demands are at their highest while GSP redevelops nearly 400 acres of land into a clean energy center for generations to come."

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Schiller Station to stop burning coal, owners to harness renewables
Plans to scale back water usage from the imperiled Colorado River have been hindered by a tiny fish no bigger than an index finger.

The Imperial Irrigation District in far Southern California had been gearing up to begin a water conservation program next month that would pay farmers to temporarily stop watering crops such as alfalfa and wheat in an effort to save supplies.

But those plans were put on hold after environmentalists raised concerns that dry irrigation drains could threaten desert pupfish, an endangered species that calls the region home.

Jamie Asbury, the water district's general manager, told the Associated Press the program has been delayed until at least June so that officials can determine a way to protect the fish while also reducing water use.

The IID is a key supplier for the agricultural region that grows most of the nation's winter vegetables. It is also consistently one of the top water-using regions in the state, and the recipient of California's largest share of Colorado River water.

The Colorado  long viewed as a water lifeline for the West  has been sapped by drought, overuse and climate change, and California and six other states are in tense negotiations about how to permanently cut back.

In the meantime, California has agreed to give up 1.6 million acre-feet of water through 2026. Nearly half of those cuts would come from the IID through the proposed conservation program and other efforts, agency officials said. (An acre-foot of water is enough water to supply up to three households for a year.)

Jessica Humes, environmental project manager for the Imperial Irrigation District, looks over a pond refuge for the desert pupfish recently in Imperial. (Gregory Bull / Associated Press)

The conservation program, which would cease irrigation on some fields for anywhere from 45 to 60 days, would help conserve water while still keeping the land in production. It is seen as a better option than year-round fallowing, which the agency employed between 2003 and 2017.

"Ag production amounts to 1 in every 6 jobs in the Imperial Valley and is the backbone of our economy," said Robert Schettler, a spokesman for the IID. "So a deficit irrigation program, if possible, would leave the ground in production and have a much less negative socioeconomic impact."

Read more: 'We can do better': Western states divided over long-term plans for Colorado River water

But the tiny pupfish, which typically measure less than three inches in length, could throw a wrench into those plans.

The species was listed as federally endangered in 1986. The fish were historically found in backwaters and sloughs along the lower Colorado River and in slow-moving seeps and streams in the Salton Sink basin, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Habitat destruction and other changes have seen its populations decline rapidly, and most desert pupfish are now found only in the Salton Sea and in nearby shoreline pools and freshwater ponds  as well as irrigation drains.

"Drains are created for farmers to be able to convey irrigation runoff, and the pupfish decided it was a good place to live," Asbury told the AP.

Some populations also live in wildlife refuges, including one in El Centro that has been run by the IID for nearly 10 years.

Agency officials said that about one-third of the water spread on area fields runs off into irrigation drains, all of which lead to the Salton Sea. The environmental groups grew concerned that stopping irrigation on those fields, even temporarily, could cause the drains to dry up and threaten the fish habitat.

Their challenge was raised as part of the California Environmental Quality Act and the National Environmental Policy Act process, agency officials said. It could require the IID to obtain what is known as an incidental take permit before taking action that could negatively affect the fish.

"We are hoping that a 'take' permit wont be necessary, as we are making adjustments and we continue to be in ongoing consultation with the state and federal agencies," Schettler said.

Read more: Mystery surrounds sudden increase in steelhead trout deaths near California water pumps

It's not the first time state water agencies have run up against issues with wildlife as they work to cut back water usage.

Earlier this month, environmental groups urged a federal court to intervene amid a dramatic increase in deaths of steelhead trout at pumps operated by state and federal water managers in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.

Officials with the Department of Water Resources and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation said the presence of the fish at those pumps hampered their ability to capture and move more water south during the state's wet winter.

"DWR continues to take proactive measures and use the best available science to operate our water storage and delivery system to balance water supply needs while protecting native fish species," director Karla Nemeth said earlier this month.

The pupfish are known for their ability to live in extreme conditions, including a wide range of water temperatures and salinity levels. One species, the Devil's Hole pupfish that lives in Death Valley National Park, dwindled in number to just 35 in 2013 before making a small but meaningful recovery in recent years.

"A lot of them do live in these really bizarre drains, these agricultural drains," Ileene Anderson, senior scientist with the Center for Biological Diversity, told the AP.

"These fish are incredibly tough  they basically just try to find a space where they can carry on their lives."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Disney has reached a settlement in its fight with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis over the special district that governs Walt Disney World.

In an agreement announced on Wednesday, Disney and Florida will drop the lawsuits they have filed against each other and negotiate new development agreements for the 40-square-mile area that encompasses the Orlando theme parks.

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At a press conference in Orlando on Wednesday afternoon, DeSantis declared victory in the two-year battle, saying that the settlement ensures that the district will be managed in the best interests of the state  and not just on behalf of Disney.

Every action that weve taken has been upheld in full, and the states better off for that, the governor said. You now have a controlled board overseeing this that is accountable, that has been appointed by people that youve elected, that is not there just to represent one companys interest.

Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World, said in a statement that the deal opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the state government.

We are pleased to put an end to all litigation pending in state court in Florida between Disney and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, Vahle said. This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the state.

The fight between DeSantis and Disney began when the company opposed the states so-called Dont Say Gay legislation, which limits classroom instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation.

In response, DeSantis and the Florida legislature quickly moved to eliminate the the Reedy Creek Improvement District, the governing body that Disney had controlled for more than 50 years. DeSantis ultimately took control of the newly established Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, but not before Disneys board approved development agreements that tied the hands of the state appointees.

Disney and the state then waged legal fights in state and federal court, with the company accusing the governor of retaliating for exercising its First Amendment rights.

Under the settlement, Disney agrees that the last-minute development agreements are null and void. The two sides intend to negotiate a new agreement, and drop the litigation.

We are glad that Disney has dropped its lawsuits against the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District and conceded that their last-minute development agreements are null, void, and unenforceable, a DeSantis spokesman said in a statement. No corporation should be its own government. Moving forward, we stand ready to work with Disney and the District to help promote economic growth, family-friendly tourism, and accountable government in Central Florida.

The agreement means that Disney will no longer contest the establishment of the new board. Disney had argued in its federal lawsuit that DeSantis had clearly retaliated for protected speech, and had even boasted about weaponizing government to punish the company.

But a federal judge dismissed the suit in January 2024, finding that Florida had a constitutional right to assert control over the districts governance and that the states motives were irrelevant. Disney said it would appeal the ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit. The briefing on the appeal is now suspended while the two sides work on a new development agreement.

The settlement comes just two weeks after the state settled with plaintiffs who challenged the Parental Rights in Education Act, which its critics called Dont Say Gay. That settlement clarified that Florida teachers can discuss sexual orientation and gender identity in class  so long as its not part of the classroom instruction.

At the press conference, DeSantis said the Disney settlement allows both sides to move forward, and will allow Disney to expand its theme parks to keep pace with Universal Studios. He also chalked up the feud to directives from Disney headquarters in Burbank.

A lot of what happened with Parents Rights in Education, some of that stuff, was really driven by Burbank, he said. It was not driven by Orlando. We understood that.

DeSantis made the clash with the woke corporation a theme of his 2024 presidential campaign, which he suspended after losing the Iowa caucus in January.

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The environmental damage caused by the Russian attack on the Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP) in Zaporizhzhia on 22 March is currently estimated to be around UAH 140 million (approx. US$3.5 million), but this figure is expected to rise in the future.

Source: Ruslan Strilets, Ukraines Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources, on the air of the national joint 24/7 newscast, as reported by Interfax-Ukraine

Quote: "The environmental damage caused by enemy missiles hitting the Dnipro HPP has now been estimated to be UAH 140 million. Environmental damage includes not only destruction but also water pollution, explosions, and burning, which have a significant impact on the ecosystem. This figure might change, but only upwards," Strilets said.

Details: Strilets stated that the State Environmental Inspectorate and the State Water Agency conduct enhanced monitoring of the water condition near the Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant and downstream, as well as take all necessary steps to mitigate the effects of the attack.

"The task of preventing contaminated water from reaching the point of consumption for the population has already been completed. There are no risks. We may reach normal water levels in a few days," the minister said.

Strilets also stated that the damage to the Dnipro HPP caused by the attack will not interfere with the spring flood's passage.

"I am sure that everything will work in a coordinated and synchronised manner, just like last year," he stated.

The minister stated that since the beginning of the full-scale war, the State Environmental Inspectorate has already recorded more than 4,000 crimes of the Russian Federation against the environment, and the volume of waste caused by destruction has reached 600,000 tonnes.

Background:

Ukraine's largest hydroelectric power plant  Dnipro HPP in Zaporizhzhia  was hit as a result of a missile attack on 22 March. There is no threat of a dam breach, and the situation at the dam is under control.

Ukrhydroenergo, Ukraine's largest hydropower generating company, reported two direct hits to the Dnipro HPP in Zaporizhzhia, HPP-1 and HPP-2. It is not yet known whether it will be possible to rebuild the latter because it was seriously damaged.

Later, it became known that Russian missiles hit Dnipro HPP eight times, and emergency services and the State Emergency Service were working at the plant.

Meanwhile, Ukrhydroenergo is not ruling out that the Russians may have intended to destroy the power station completely.

Part of the equipment at the DniproHPP has been re-launched, but it has yet to produce electricity.

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EPCSO responds to 2 separate drownings incidents in far East EP

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The El Paso County Sheriffs Office investigated two different drowning incidents Wednesday, March 27 in far East El Paso.

Deputies were dispatched to the 200 block of Tornillo Guadalupe and the 13600 block of Petunia.

The Sherriffs Office says there is no threat to the public.

No further information has been released. This story will be updated once we

learn more.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur echoed Donald Trump's plea for increased defense spending in Europe, emphasizing the interconnectedness of European and American security during a conversation with Ukrainian news outlet Telegraf on March 27.

"I am 100% sure that as much as Europe needs the United States, the United States needs Europe," Pevkur noted, referencing Trump's hints at a possible U.S. pullback from NATO. "We've stood side by side in Afghanistan and Iraq, defending peace across the globe."

Pevkur concurred with the notion that European nations should allocate a minimum of 2% of their GDP to defense, a benchmark that he suggests could be increased to 2.5% or even 3%. "The core message from NATO remains: united we are stronger," he said.

The backdrop of Trump's statements includes concerns voiced in March by The Telegraph, hinting at a potential U.S. withdrawal from NATO should Trump return to office. Trump himself, on Feb. 10, stirred controversy by suggesting he would "encourage" Russia to target NATO members falling short on defense spending.

Read also:

Adding to the discourse, French European Commissioner Thierry Breton recalled a 2020 warning from Trump that the U.S. might not defend Europe in the event of a military attack. Trump has also critiqued NATO as "a drain on American resources" and has had particular grievances with Germany's defense spending.

Europe fears that Donald Trump's second presidency could lead to the actual withdrawal of the United States from NATO and the destruction of the Alliance, The New York Times reported on Dec. 9, 2023.

The U.S. Congress passed a bill in December 2023 that prohibits the President from unilaterally terminating the country's participation in the Alliance.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The ambassadors of the European Union have agreed on the renewal and continuation of the so-called autonomous measures of trade with Ukraine.

Source: Belgian presidency of the Council of the European Union on Twitter (X), as reported by European Pravda

Quote: "EU Ambassadors agreed on a new compromise to extend trade measures (ATM) for Ukraine, securing a balanced approach between support for Ukraine and protection of EU agricultural markets."

Details: The Belgian presidency also stated that this compromise has yet to be adopted by the European Parliament.

Earlier media reports stated that the Belgian presidency over the EU Council updated the draft agreement on the extension of duty-free trade with Ukraine, taking into account new restrictions.

The European Commission's estimates, voiced at a closed meeting of EU ambassadors, indicated that Ukraine would lose 86 million if the second half of 2021 is also taken as the basis for calculations.

The updated draft partially took into account the requirements of Poland and France. The document says that the base period that will be taken into account when determining the volume of supplies of Ukrainian agricultural products will cover not only 2022 and 2023 but also the second half of 2021, when the volume of Ukrainian imports was lower. Ukraine opposed this proposal.

Background:

On Monday, EU ambassadors discussed the renewal and extension of the agreement, but did not approve it. The Belgian presidency postponed approval of the agreement until Wednesday, as many countries have not decided on their position.

Last Wednesday, the ambassadors also failed to approve the agreement, as Poland and France considered the text agreed with the European Parliament insufficient.

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EU ambassadors "agreed on a new compromise" regarding the extension of the trade agreement with Ukraine, ensuring a "balanced approach between support for Ukraine and protection of EU agricultural markets," the Belgian presidency of the EU Council announced on March 27.

"This compromise will now be presented to (the European Parliament) in view of a swift agreement," the presidency wrote on X.

The EU introduced a free trade agreement for Ukraine to overcome export restrictions following Russia's full-scale invasion and the blockade of Ukraine's Black Sea ports in 2022. Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia became alternative export routes, agitating local farmers.

Polish farmers are currently blocking several crossings with Ukraine in protest to Ukrainian agricultural imports, claiming their Ukrainian competitors are running them out of business.

The International Trade Committee on March 7 supported the European Commission's proposal to again extend the trade agreement from June 2024 until June 2025 while introducing an "emergency brake" in case the import of Ukrainian poultry, sugar, and eggs exceeds the levels from 2022 and 2023.

A week later, the European Parliament returned the proposal with new amendments designed to reinforce "safeguards for EU farmers in case of a surge in Ukrainian products," leaving the matter up for further discussion between the committee and the EU Council.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. The Armenian parliamentary delegation did not join the CSTO PA's statement condemning the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Trend reports.

The parliament stressed that the refusal was conditioned solely by issues related to the CSTO.

Speaker Alen Simonyan emphasized that the leadership of the parliament took a clear position - the parliament condemns the terrorist attack.

According to Nelly Ghulyan, the press secretary of the Speaker of the Armenian Parliament, "the proposal was rejected due to the freezing of Armenia's participation in the CSTO".

To note, unidentified people fired machine guns at Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, Moscow Region, on March 22. The incident occurred before the beginning of the concert by the band Picnic.

Emergency Situations Ministry employees finished removing the rubble after the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall on March 26.

The death toll in the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall rose to 140.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Ambassadors of the 27 EU countries will once again try to approve the extension of the duty-free trade agreement with Ukraine on Wednesday, 27 March.

Source: European Pravda

Details: The meeting will mark the third time EU representatives have met since a tentative compromise with the European Parliament was reached a week ago, which was later rejected due to the opposition of a group of countries led by Poland and France.

Warsaw and Paris, supported by a group of Ukraine's neighbours, sought to include 2021, when the volume of Ukrainian agricultural imports was lower, in determining the quotas for Ukrainian agricultural products.

Polish radio station RMF FM reported that the draft agreement currently stipulates that the average is based on 2022-2023 when Ukrainian imports were actually higher.

As the Polish radio station learned from its sources, a compromise is being considered, where only six months, starting in June, would be included instead of the whole of 2021.

In addition, France and Poland are still trying to impose quantitative restrictions on Ukrainian wheat, which currently apply only to sugar and eggs, and, after a compromise with the European Parliament, to poultry, grain, oats and honey.

France is seeking to include barley in the list. However, the radio station noted that it would be challenging to achieve this. On Tuesday, Belgian Agriculture Minister David Clarinval made it clear that there had been no agreement from the European Union in this regard.

"The Belgians are very reluctant to make concessions, as making changes would mean further negotiations with the European Parliament and a very tight timetable for approving the agreement, which is due to enter into force on 6 June for another year. This turns everything upside down," an EU source said.

Background:

On Monday, EU ambassadors discussed the renewal and extension of the agreement, but did not approve it. The Belgian presidency postponed approval of the agreement until Wednesday, as many countries have not decided on their stance.

Last Wednesday, the ambassadors also failed to approve the agreement, as Poland and France considered the text agreed with the European Parliament insufficient.

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The Belgian presidency over the EU Council has updated the draft agreement on the extension of duty-free trade with Ukraine, taking into account new restrictions.

Source: Radio Liberty, with reference to a source in the EU diplomacy on condition of anonymity, cited by European Pravda

Details: The updated draft partially took into account the requirements of Poland and France. The document says that the base period that will be taken into account when determining the volume of supplies of Ukrainian agricultural products will cover not only 2022 and 2023, but also the second half of 2021, when the volume of Ukrainian imports was lower. Ukraine opposed this proposal.

The European Commission's estimates, voiced at a closed meeting of EU ambassadors, indicated that Ukraine would lose 86 million if the second half of 2021 is also taken as the basis for calculations.

In total, the restrictions, which will be based on import estimates for the first half of 2021, as well as for 2022 and 2023, are estimated to cost the Ukrainian budget 331 million.

Poland and France supported the updated version of the agreement, with the support of a number of EU countries, including Italy, Hungary, and Austria.

Germany, the Netherlands, Finland, the Baltic States and Luxembourg stand against the amendments.

The previous draft agreement, agreed with the European Parliament, stipulated that quotas for the next period, which will begin in June 2024, would be calculated based on the volume of Ukrainian agricultural imports in 2022-2023, when it already enjoyed benefits, such as no duties and quotas.

Background: On Monday, EU ambassadors discussed the renewal and extension of the agreement, but did not approve it. The Belgian presidency postponed approval of the agreement until Wednesday, as many countries have not decided on their position.

Last Wednesday, the ambassadors also failed to approve the agreement, as Poland and France considered the text agreed with the European Parliament insufficient.

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EU ambassadors have agreed to extend the existing liberalized trade regime with Ukraine for another year, the Belgian presidency of the European Council announced via Twitter on March 27.

The message makes it clear that some restrictions were imposed on importing certain Ukrainian agricultural products.

Read also: How EU-Russia-Belarus trade changed in recent years

EU Ambassadors agreed on a new compromise to extend trade measures (ATM) for Ukraine, securing a balanced approach between support for Ukraine and protection of EU agricultural markets, the announcement said.

Read also: Ukrainian agricultural products damaged for third time at Polish border

The proposal will now be submitted to the European Parliament for consideration.

Read also: Ukraine tightens restrictions on grain exports

As reported by Euronews, the updated trade regime includes more measures to protect goods considered "sensitive," such as poultry meat, eggs, sugar, oats, corn, cereals, and honey. These items will be subject to tariffs if their exports from Ukraine exceed the average volumes over the last three years.

Preliminary estimates suggest that Kyiv would lose about EUR 330 million ($357 million) in annual revenue due to the restrictions.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Europes best beaches: These coastal hotspots came out on top for sun, safety, and swimming

Summer is creeping up on us fast and with it comes the promise of escaping in the sun. Its a chance to unwind, sink your toes in the sand and forget about everything else.

But what exactly does the perfect beach holiday look like?

Retreat booking platform BookRetreats has ranked beaches across 16 European countries based on what they say travellers value the most: popularity, weather, safety, accessibility and water quality.

Using data from Google reviews, safety rankings from the Global Peace Index and water quality information from the European Environment Agency (EEA), each location was given a score from 0 to 1 for these categories with a total possible score of 5.

From more than 14,000 top-rated destinations, the travel booking company took a closer look at 251 beaches. They analysed them all from the most popular secluded spots - far from major airports - like Praia da Samoqueira in Portugal or Cala Mariolu in Italy to countries such as Cyprus where 99.2 per cent of bathing sites reported excellent water quality.

These are the places they say are the best beaches in Europe to visit this summer.

Where are Europes best beaches?

The top 25 best beaches in Europe are spread out across the continent from Germany to Greece and Croatia. But when it comes to the top 10, there is a stand-out location in this ranking.

Portugals Marinha Beach comes in tenth place and Praia da Falesia in second. In Spain, Cala Comte earned sixth place, Las Canteras in fourth and La Concha Beach ranked in the top spot.

Cala Comte is on of many Spanish beaches that made the list. - BookRetreats

The Iberian Peninsula has many of the best beaches on the continent. In fact, Spain alone has 28 per cent of Europes best beaches, according to the BookRetreats ranking.

Heres a closer look at the coastal destinations that landed the top five spots on the list.

Lama Monachile, Italy: Lay down your beach towel in an iconic cove

Coming in at number five is the pebbly shore of Lama Monachile in Italy. This cove between two magnificent cliffs in the middle of Polignano a Mare has a 4.7 out of 5 ranking from 14,900 Google reviews.

Summers are perfect for sun lovers reaching an average of 30C and its Blue Flag status ensures crystal clear, excellent water quality. Italy ranks 34th in the world for safety and this beach is also easily reachable by car at just 50km from Bari Airport.

Altogether this earns Lama Monchile a score of 4.15 out 5 - the highest-ranking Italian beach on the list.

Las Canteras Beach, Spain: Catch some rays without leaving the city

In the vibrant heart of Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Las Canteras is the highest scoring beach in the Canary Islands. It also has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 14,400 travellers reviews.

Endless sunshine brings summer temperatures of 28C and the water quality is excellent according to EEA data - a big bonus if you plan to swim offshore and experience its lively lava reef teeming with marine life.

Las Canteras Beach in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria. - BookRetreats

With Spain 32nd in the world for safety, it receives the same score for this as all other Spanish beaches on the list. And when it comes to accessibility, Las Canteras is just 22.5km from Gran Canaria Airport.

In total, BookRetreats gives this beach a score of 4.21 out of 5 meaning it is the fourth best beach in Europe.

Pasjaca Beach, Croatia: Discover a hidden gem on the Adriatic Sea

Wedged between a tall cliff and the Adriatic Sea, Pasjaca Beach is the top beach in Croatia. It has a 4.8 out of 5 ranking from more than 2,400 reviews - less than others but an indication that this beach could be a real hidden gem.

Bask in 28C heat during the summer then take a swim in the excellent quality water. The sea is warmest in August.

Croatia is 14th in the world for safety which also scores this beach some extra points and it couldnt be any more easily accessible at just 7.5km from Cilipi Airport.

With an overall score of 4.22 out of 5, Pasjaca Beach is the third best in Europe.

Praia da Falesia, Portugal: Bask beneath golden cliffs

Surrounded by the golden clay cliffs of the Algarve, Praia da Falesia has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 13,000 Google reviews.

Clear sunny days reach an average maximum of 28C in the summer and - like all the other entries into the top five - it has excellent water quality. If safety is your concern, Portugal comes in at 7th globally. It is one of the five safest European coastal countries.

And access to this beach is easy with Praia da Falesia just a 31.4km drive from the well-served Faro Airport.

La Concha Beach, Spain: Visit the best beach in Europe

La Concha Beach can be found just east of Bilbao near the border between France and Spain.

It was one of the most highly rated in Europe with an average of 4.7 out of 5 over 21,000 reviews on Google. Warm, balmy summer days bring average temperatures of 24C and excellent water quality makes it a great spot for swimming.

La Concha Beach in Spain. - BookRetreats

Around 30 minutes from San Sebastian Airport, it isnt hard to get there either. And, in the final safety category, Spain ranks in 32nd place globally. Overall, that gives La Concha Beach a score of 4.29 out of 5, earning it first place on BookRetreats list.
The tech behind a flying car, originally developed and successfully test-flown in Europe, has been bought by a Chinese firm.

Powered by a BMW engine and normal fuel, the AirCar flew for 35 minutes between two Slovakian airports in 2021, using runways for take-off and landing.

It took just over two minutes to transform from a car into an aircraft.

Now vehicles made based on its design will be used within a "specific geographical region" of China.

Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Company, headquartered in Cangzhou, has purchased exclusive rights to manufacture and use AirCar aircraft inside an undisclosed area.

The firm has built its own airport and flight school after a previous acquisition from another Slovak aircraft manufacturer, said Anton Zajac, cofounder of KleinVision, the company which created AirCar.

Having led the way in the development of the EV revolution, China is now actively developing flying transport solutions.

Last month a firm called Autoflight carried out a test flight of a passenger-carrying drone between the cities of Shenzhen and Zhuhai. The journey, which takes three hours by car, was completed in 20 minutes, it said - although the aircraft contained no passengers.

And in 2023 the Chinese firm eHang was awarded a safety certificate by Chinese officials for its electric flying taxi. Here, the UK government has said flying taxis could become a regular feature of the skies by 2028.

But unlike these drone-like passenger aircrafts, AirCar does not take off and land vertically, and requires a runway.

KleinVision declined to say how much it had sold the technology for. AirCar was issued with a certificate of airworthiness by the Slovak Transport Authority in 2022 and featured in a video published by YouTuber Mr Beast earlier this year.

There are still considerable hurdles for this form of transport in terms of infrastructure, regulation and public acceptance of the technology.

"This brave new world of personal transport is acting as a great leveller," said aviation consultant Steve Wright.

Global attempts to regulate the sector left "everyone scrambling to come up with a whole new set of questions that need to be asked".

"In this respect the West's history can sometimes slow things down, as there is a bit of a temptation to try and squeeze these new machines into the old categories," Mr Wright added. "China could well see this as an opportunity to get ahead."

Similar concerns once applied to electric cars - in which China which has become a global market leader.

The sale of the Slovakian AirCar could raise questions about whether China might be poised to do the same with flying cars.

Mr Wright said while prototypes like the AirCar were "great fun", the reality was likely to end up being more mundane "with queues and baggage checks and whatnot".
Two former officials of a veterans nursing home in Massachusetts that had a deadly outbreak of COVID-19 settled their cases Tuesday to avoid prison, according to the state attorney general.

Bennett Walsh, the former superintendent of Holyoke Soldiers Home, and David Clinton, the former medical director at the home, were facing five charges of neglect over a deadly outbreak of COVID-19 that killed at least 76 people in 2020. At a hearing in the Hampshire County Superior Court on Tuesday, the state attorney generals office said they each withdrew their previous not guilty pleas.

State prosecutors asked the court for Walsh and Clinton to be sentenced to one year of home confinement and three years of probation. Both Walsh and Clinton asked the judge for a continuance without a finding, which means they would each admit that there were enough facts to find them guilty of the charges.

The judge accepted Walshs and Clintons requests and ordered that neither of them work in a nursing home, initiate any contact with the families of the victims, or be present at the home without permission, according to the Massachusetts attorney general office.

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell criticized the judges decision in a statement.

Today the justice system failed the families who lost their loved ones at the Holyoke Soldiers Home. I am disappointed and disheartened with the Courts decision, and want these families and our veterans to know my office did everything it could to seek accountability. We will continue to be vigilant in prosecuting cases of elder abuse and neglect.

They both pleaded not guilty in 2020 to the charges that were related to their decision to combine two dementia units at the long-term facility  one unit that had positive cases and the other that had no symptoms. The case was later dismissed by Hampden County Superior Court Judge Edward McDonough, but the state attorneys general office filed an appeal on the decision in 2021.

Massachusettss highest court reinstituted the charges last year, The Associated Press reported.

A 2022 report on the veterans home that covered 2016 to 2020 found that Walsh lacked the leadership skills required to be the superintendent of the facility. The AP noted he did not have experience in a health care facility or nursing home before being hired, but that such experience was not needed at the time under state law.

The Associated Press contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Editors note: This story includes updates related to the funding of the camera program and plans for how the bodegas use the images captured by the cameras. The story in the video player originally aired on Feb. 27, 2024.

MT. EDEN, the Bronx (PIX11)  Bodegas across the Bronx and Upper Manhattan are getting new facial recognition technology cameras they are hopeful will be paid for by a state pilot program that is in response to repeated robberies and theft.

The cameras also blare a warning to tell bodega shoppers, loud and clear, what is happening.

The Bodega and Small Business Association is hopeful funding for the cameras will come from a $1 million pilot program from State of New York, first announced a year ago.

MTA program will install security camera screens to NYC buses

Francisco Marte, with the bodega association, has been helping members install the camera system. Sixty will be installed by next week. Three hundred in total will go up.

Weve been having a lot of problems with shoplifting, robbing the store, violence in the store, Marte said. So when you come, youre going to be recognized. Were going to know you are here.

Here is how the cameras work: They take a high-resolution picture of everyone coming and going from the store. Using a computer interface, the owner of the bodega can flag repeat troublemakers.

Bodega owner Luis Bello took PIX11 News behind the scenes in his office to see. He showed how it was logging all the faces of the group of construction workers who came in for lunch.

The system can send a push alert when it spots someone who is flagged by an owner, and theres an option for an alarm to sound in the store.

The bodega association initially said it was working to develop a database and share pictures between stores, but it later clarified to say it no longer plans to create this database.

The New York Civil Liberties Union has raised concerns, saying this sort of facial recognition and data collection could violate privacy and be problematic if the data is shared with the wrong people.

Security tools that bodegas and other small businesses use to keep their staff and customers safe should be effective and unbiased  facial recognition technology is neither: it could violate New Yorkers privacy rights and result in dangerous situations, said Daniel Schwarz, senior privacy and technology strategist at the New York Civil Liberties Union. This invasive technology has a high risk of false identification, especially for people of color, and it is unclear how shops will safeguard the biometric data they collect and if they will share that data with others. Keeping New Yorkers safe is critical  that includes making sure their privacy isnt invaded, their likeness isnt shared with the government or corporations, and they are not mistakenly denied access or harassed.

Separately, another part of the pilot program equips bodegas with panic buttons. Its something that has been talked about a lot since 2018, with the high-profile gang murder of Lesandro Junior Guzman-Feliz at a Bronx bodega.

If you press once it goes to the ambulance, if you press twice it goes to police, said Marte, who said it has already improved NYPD bodega response times.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Joint military and police operation in the Socio Vivienda neighbourhood in Guayaquil

By Alexandra Valencia and Oliver Griffin

(Reuters) - Ecuador is struggling to bring spiraling violence under control, with mayors fearing for their lives and the national government recognizing an increase in extortion and kidnapping amid a 90-day state of emergency declared to tackle criminal groups.

Over the weekend the country's youngest mayor, 27-year-old Brigitte Garcia, and her head of communications were found dead of gunshot wounds, according to Ecuador's police.

The slaying, decried as an assassination by some politicians, follows an explosion of unrest in January, when gunmen stormed a live television broadcast and scores of prison staff were taken hostage, while police officers were kidnapped.

In response, the government of President Daniel Noboa ordered widespread security force operations. Between Jan. 9 and March 10, almost 13,000 people were arrested, according to the government, 280 for alleged connections to terrorism.

WHY HAS ECUADOR'S SECURITY DETERIORATED?

Security in Ecuador has worsened since the coronavirus pandemic, which also battered the Andean nation's economy.

Noboa's predecessor President Guillermo Lasso struggled to control violence and resorted to measures like relaxing gun controls to allow civilians to defend themselves.

The number of violent deaths rose to 7,994 in 2023, according to police, up nearly two-thirds on the 2022 figure. The violence crossed into the political arena last year when anti-corruption presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was assassinated.

The government blames the situation on the growing reach of cocaine trafficking gangs, which have destabilized swathes of South America.

Inside Ecuador's prisons, gangs have taken advantage of the state's weak control to expand their power. Prison violence has become increasingly common, resulting in hundreds of deaths in incidents authorities have blamed on gang battles to control jails.

Currently, some 10 prisons throughout the country are under the control of security forces, which includes members of the military, Interior Minister Monica Palencia told local television on Wednesday.

OFFICIALS TARGETED

Garcia, who was the mayor of San Vicente, is the latest example of a local official being killed in the Andean country.

According to the Association of Ecuadorean Municipalities (AME), 22 officials - including Agustin Intriago, another mayor - have been killed since last year.

At least 45 have requested police protection and others have sought private security as a means of protecting themselves, AME executive director Homero Castanier told Reuters in an interview this week.

It is not just mayors in the crosshairs of violence.

In January, prosecutor Cesar Suarez, who focused on pursuing organized trans-national crime in Guayas province and was investigating the attack on the television station, was also killed.

Guayaquil, a coastal city that is Ecuador's largest, is considered the country's most dangerous, with its ports acting as a hub for drug smuggling.

WHAT IS THE GOVERNMENT DOING TO TACKLE THE PROBLEM?

Noboa, 36, took power in November and has been touting his "Phoenix Plan" to build a new intelligence unit, supply security forces with tactical weapons, build new high-security prisons and reinforce security at ports and airports.

It will cost some $800 million, he said, though $200 million in new weapons for Ecuador's army will be provided by the United States.

The extended state of emergency - which ends on April 8 - permits military patrols, including in prisons, and establishes a national nighttime curfew.

The president also accused 22 groups of terrorism, paving the way for the military to conduct operations against armed groups.

In February, Noboa won a legislative VAT hike to fund security spending.

The country's electoral court also approved an 11-question referendum on tightening security, which will be held on April 21.

IS ANYTHING WORKING?

According to Interior Minister Palencia, homicides have fallen by just over a quarter during Noboa's administration so far.

However, she said that extortion and kidnapping have increased, adding the government will establish a specialist police unit to tackle both crimes.

(Reporting by Alexandra Valencia and Oliver Griffin; Editing by Aurora Ellis)
Police department leaders in at least two Illinois towns have canceled upcoming training classes for their officers offered by a private firm whose past practices were criticized by a New Jersey state agency for promoting unconstitutional tactics and for glorifying violence.

Street Cop Training was slated to hold training classes in five Illinois communities between April and November: Burr Ridge, Cary, Elgin, Mount Vernon and Rochelle. Burr Ridge and Rochelle have since canceled classes. And Elgin has said its officers will not attend the companys training.

The companys courses are not certified by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, state officials said, meaning any officers who attended those classes would not receive continuing education credits.

In December, the New Jersey Office of the State Comptroller released a scathing report centered on a six-day training conference Street Cop held in Atlantic City in October 2021. Nearly 1,000 officers from departments across the country attended the conference, the report states, where they heard instructors who promoted the use of unconstitutional policing tactics for motor vehicle stops, and glorified violence and an excessively militaristic or warrior approach to policing.

The agencys report counted over 100 discriminatory and harassing remarks by speakers and instructors, with repeated references to speakers genitalia, lewd gestures and demeaning quips about women and minorities.

We found so many examples of so many instructors promoting views and tactics that were wildly inappropriate, offensive, discriminatory, harassing, and, in some cases, likely illegal, Kevin Walsh, acting state comptroller, said in a release announcing the report. The fact that the training undermined nearly a decade of police reforms  and New Jersey dollars paid for it  is outrageous.

Street Cop did not respond to a Chicago Tribune email seeking comment for this story. The company, once based in New Jersey, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Florida, where it relocated, according to a company Facebook post.

Rather than spend time in the past we look forward to our future and ensuring that the people of this country get a better police officer to serve and protect them, the post reads. Yea we cursed at our event and told jokes. But to this day even after further review there is still nothing supporting any claims of 4th Amendment wrong doings or racial unfairness.

Burr Ridge police Chief John Madden said two of his officers attended Street Cop training classes, one in 2022 and the other in 2023, and told the chief they saw none of the behavior documented in the New Jersey report. One of those officers recommended the department host a Street Cop training class, which had been scheduled for November. Doing so would allow a certain number of Burr Ridge officers to attend for free, depending on how many officers from outside agencies purchased $299 tickets.

The class was supposed to be taught by an Indiana police sergeant who, according to the New Jersey comptroller report, espoused potentially unconstitutional traffic stop tactics during his presentation at the Atlantic City conference.

Madden said another officer flagged the New Jersey report shortly after its release in December.

Extremely disturbing, he said of the report. Were talking about unconstitutional practices, discriminatory conduct. Were not sending our officers to anything like that.

Some Burr Ridge residents were outraged to learn about the classes.

Residents deserve assurance that no more public money will be spent on these disturbing police training tactics that expose our village to potentially expensive litigation and which places our officers at risk, Burr Ridge resident Patricia Davis wrote in an email to Madden, the mayor and the Village Board.

Madden said no public money would have been spent on the training and that his staff repeatedly tried to speak with someone at Street Cop to ask, in part, if the company had taken any steps to correct the myriad issues raised in the comptrollers report. When no one responded, Madden instructed a deputy chief to inform the company that Burr Ridge would no longer host the class or send its officers to it, he said.

Moving forward, weve got nothing to do with this company, Madden said, If you have a private company providing law enforcement training, as chiefs we really have to vet the companies.

The class Burr Ridge planned to host, called Interdiction Mastermind, is also scheduled to be held April 4 in Cary with the same Indiana sergeant as instructor, according to the companys website.

Cary police Chief Patrick Finlon did not respond to a message seeking comment, nor did Chief Trent Page in Mount Vernon, 280 miles south of Chicago, where a different instructors class is scheduled for June 11.

A Street Cop class on Illinois case law, taught by an attorney and police corporal in Crown Point, Indiana, is scheduled to be held Aug. 26 in Elgin.

Elgin Police Department spokesman, Sgt. Mike Martino, said the department is not the host agency for that class and will not have any officers in attendance. He declined to answer additional questions.

About 80 miles west of Chicago, in Rochelle, Chief Pete Pavia said his officers asked a few months ago if the department would consider hosting a Street Cop training class. A class taught by the companys founder, former New Jersey police Officer Dennis Benigno, was scheduled for July 15.

Yesterday, Pavia said he canceled the class after learning from a state law enforcement training official that his officers would not receive credit for the session.

I was told it had something to do with them filing bankruptcy, Pavia said, adding that he was unaware of the New Jersey comptroller report before speaking with a Chicago Tribune reporter.

Im glad I canceled this class, Pavia said. Had I known this, I wouldnt have considered hosting a class for them in the first place.

In the future, he continued, when someone brings a class, Ill look more into it.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. Ukraine will receive $1.5 billion from the UK and Japan, Prime Minister of Ukraine Denis Shmygal said, Trend reports.

According to him, the funds will be received within the framework of the World Bank program.

The Prime Minister noted that $984 million of this will come from Japan and $516 million from the UK. He expressed hope that Ukraine will receive these funds by the end of March.
Claim:

A Ukrainian was captain of the Dali container ship when it crashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key bridge in late March 2024.

Rating:

Rating: False

On March 26, 2024, a container ship named Dali lost power and crashed into a pillar of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key bridge, plunging parts of it into the Patapsco River below. The destruction of the bridge, which appears to have killed six construction workers, means the primary waterway into one of America's busiest ports is blocked.

In its immediate aftermath, and without a shred of evidence, pundits blamed virtually anyone and anything  from Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives to COVID-19 lockdowns. One such claim that went viral on X (formerly Twitter)  especially on accounts that historically push pro-Kremlin misinformation  attempted to bring Ukraine into the story by falsely claiming that a Ukrainian man was at the Dali's helm during the crash:

The purported evidence in these and many other viral tweets came from a website  balticshipping.com  that serves as a database of shipping vessels and jobs in the shipping industry. Like LinkedIn, users can post their job experience in the industry, and employers can use that information to make hires. If users post that they served on a particular ship at a particular time, their information will also appear on Baltic Shipping's page dedicated to that vessel.

The screenshot at issue shows two individuals who once listed the Dali as part of their employment history on the Baltic Shipping website. One of the two people (whose profile on Baltic Shipping is no longer visible) was a Ukrainian man who had been the master (or captain) of the Dali nearly a decade ago, from March to July in 2016:

A Ukrainian's leadership of the Dali for a few months in 2016 is wholly irrelevant to an incident in March 2024. Further, the corporate owner of the Dali, Synergy Marine Group, has stated that the crew of the ship during the incident was composed entirely of Indian citizens:

The entire 22-member crew of the cargo ship that struck a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap and plunge into the river below are Indians, the company said. The Singapore-flagged container ship "Dali" collided with one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore at approximately 1:30 am local time. According to the vessel information provided by the Synergy Marine Group, the crew was "All Indian, 22 in total."

On top of that information, it is also relevant to note that  regardless of who was captain of the Dali in March 2024  a Port of Baltimore employee was piloting the ship at the time of the crash. By law, ships engaged in foreign trade must be brought to the Port of Baltimore by a pilot employed by the State of Maryland. As explained on the Maryland Pilots Association website:

Each ship engaged in foreign trade coming to Maryland ports is required to take on a local ship handling specialist, known as the Pilot, to navigate the vessel safely into port. Pilots are regulated by the State of Maryland under the Department of Labor, State Board of Pilots. The State Board of Pilots oversees the selection, training, licensing, and regulation of all State Pilots. The rates and charges for the service the Pilots provide are established by the Maryland Public Service Commission. Maryland's Pilots are on call around the clock every day of the year no matter what the weather conditions may be.

Because a Maryland pilot was at the helm of the Dali at the time of the crash, because the Dali crew was entirely Indian, and because the individual alleged to be the Ukrainian captain on the Dali served in that role nearly a decade ago, we rate the truth of the claim as "False."

Sources:

"All Indian Crew on Container Ship That Brought Baltimore Bridge Down." The Economic Times, 26 Mar. 2024. The Economic Times - The Times of India, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/crew-of-container-ship-that-collided-with-baltimore-bridge-all-indian-company/articleshow/108796636.cms.

BalticShipping.com. BalticShipping.Com. https://www.balticshipping.com. Accessed 27 Mar. 2024.

Hilton, Jasmine, et al. "Who Are the People Presumed Dead in the Baltimore Bridge Collapse?" Washington Post, 27 Mar. 2024. www.washingtonpost.com, https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/03/26/victims-baltimore-key-bridge-collapse/.

Laris, Michael, et al. "How a Cargo Ship Took down Baltimore's Key Bridge." Washington Post, 27 Mar. 2024. www.washingtonpost.com, https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/03/26/how-key-bridge-collapsed-baltimore/.

"The Association of Maryland Pilots." The Association of Maryland Pilots, https://www.mdpilots.com. Accessed 27 Mar. 2024.

"Unfounded Conspiracy Theories Spread Online after Baltimore Bridge Collapse." NBC News, 27 Mar. 2024, https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/francis-scott-key-bridge-collapse-conspiracy-theories-online-rcna145105.
Claim:

A story accurately retells an incident in which a British Airways pilot named Jason had an emotional reaction after he discovered why birds were flying alongside his airplane.

Rating:

Rating: False

In March 2024, Snopes looked for the answers about a story claiming a pilot reacted emotionally after realizing why a flock of birds started flying next to his airplane. Readers asked about the tale via email. The article's headline from the happiness-life.org website shared by one reader read, "The pilot's emotional reaction when he discovered why birds were flying alongside the plane."

The story featured a striking photo of hundreds of birds appearing to surround a British Airways flight. Such photos might lead some readers to think of bird strikes  a common aviation incident in which airplanes and birds come into contact with each other. About 90 percent of bird strikes take place at or near airports, usually during takeoff or landing, according to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

One of the most famous bird-strike incidents was US Airways Flight 1549  the flight Capt. Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger landed safely in the Hudson River in 2009.

Snopes looked for answers and found the truth regarding both the viral story and the photo.

The Viral Story of the 'Emotional' Pilot

The story on happiness-life.org went as follows:

Jason, a pilot with years of experience, has encountered numerous unexpected situations throughout his career, forcing him to think quickly to find solutions. A specific circumstance, though, turned him into a hero. During a recent flight, Jason found himself in a sudden attack by a massive group of birds. These birds were causing loud noises by hitting the plane's windows. Jason was shocked by the unusual sight he saw. He realized the passengers' lives were in danger, so he attempted to escape the angry birds, but it was more difficult than he expected.  He lost control of the plane and had to turn back to the airport. The attacks intensified, leading him to attempt a new maneuver  landing on water. No passenger was injured, even though the landing was rough. Rescuers reached the location and sent tugboats to retrieve the plane from the water. All the passengers were safely rescued, but the rescue operation was delayed due to ongoing bird attacks. The rescue team attempted to scare the birds away, but they persisted, and the reason behind their behavior remained unknown. The reason behind the bird attack on the plane was uncovered through an investigation. It was discovered that a passenger was attempting to smuggle birds and was engaged in the illegal trade of exotic birds. After everything came to an end and Jason saw that everyone was safe, a sense of relief washed over him and tears of happiness streamed down his face. Not only had he managed to prevent a disaster, but he had also uncovered an illegal trade.

However, this story was nothing but fiction, as some readers might have been able to gather from the fact the pilot "Jason" had no last name. Also, the story did not once mention British Airways, despite the logo for the airline being visible in the striking photo.

This story told kind of tale known as glurge  a sentimental or heart-rending story undermining its own inspirational message by distorting or ignoring the facts.

Snopes located similar stories also using the same photo on other obscure blogs and as the thumbnail image for many different YouTube videos. One other untrue article displayed another fictional headline reading, "British Airways planes carrying Christians attacked by strange birds in air."

The British Airways-Birds Photo

As for the photo of the birds and the British Airways flight, a reverse-image search using the handy website TinEye.com led to thousands of results. The most helpful result was a page on airliners.net. According to the caption on the page, the photo was captured by Adam Samu on June 15, 2004. It showed a British Airways Boeing 757-236 taking off at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport in Hungary.

In 2018, The Observers on France24.com reported that Samu manages the aviation website AIRportal.hu. They also published a statement from Samu, who said the photo was "a bit of an optical illusion" in that the birds were not as close to the airplane as they may have appeared to be:

The photo was taken at Budapest Airport, at runway 31R. It can't be recent, because the plane is a Boeing 757, which has been retired from British Airways' fleet for some years now. The birds were on the grass at the airport, and when the plane arrived for take-off, they all of a sudden took flight. The photo is, in fact, a bit of an optical illusion: the birds are not so close to the plane. They are starlings, which are very common in Hungary. They range in size from 19 to 23 centimetresso you can see that when compared to the size of the plane, they were not so close to it when it took off. And I can confirm that no bird was hit by the plane and no person was injured.

Snopes contacted Samu to ask about the photo and to see whether he was aware of the fact it was appearing on obscure blogs and as thumbnail images for YouTube videos. This story will be updated if a response is received.

Sources:

AIRportal.hu. https://airportal.hu/.

"Bird and Wildlife Strikes." Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), 27 Sept. 2017, https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/active-pilots/safety-and-technique/bird-and-wildlife-strikes.

Capron, Alexandre. "No, a Flock of Birds Did Not Attack an Airplane." The Observers - France 24, 5 Oct. 2018, https://observers.france24.com/en/20181005-debunked-hoax-birds-attack-aeroplane.

Evon, Dan. "Snopes Tips: A Guide To Performing Reverse Image Searches." Snopes, 22 Mar. 2022, https://www.snopes.com//articles/400681/how-to-perform-reverse-image-searches/.

Hajela, Deepti, and Tom Foreman Jr. "For 'Miracle' Flight Survivors, a Decade of Thankfulness." The Associated Press, 16 Jan. 2019, https://apnews.com/general-news-c61e2518b15e40c88e9f8e42b64e9ac2.

Huberman, Bond, and David Emery. "Snopestionary: What Does 'Glurge' Mean?" Snopes, 21 Aug. 2021, https://www.snopes.com//articles/363643/what-does-glurge-mean/.

Semu, Adam. "Aviation Photo #0620854 Boeing 757-236 - British Airways." Airliners.net, 15 June 2004, https://www.airliners.net/photo/British-Airways/Boeing-757-236/620854/L.

TinEye Reverse Image Search. https://tineye.com/.

"US Airways Flight 1549." Britannica.com, https://www.britannica.com/topic/US-Airways-Flight-1549-incident.
Claim:

Plastic cutting boards have been shown to shed microplastics in food.

Rating:

Rating: True

From human heart tissue to the clouds above Mt. Fuji, microplastics, small pieces of plastic generally less than 5 mm long (about the size of a pencil eraser), have been shown to be ubiquitous in modern environments. Barely visible to the naked human eye, microplastics have also been found in food originating from a variety of sources, including, according to some on social media, the plastic cutting boards many people use in their kitchens.

As an example, this post (archive) shared to X (formerly Twitter) on Feb. 17, 2024, had received more than 26.5 million views as of this publication:

Every slice shows microplastics moving from the board into food Plastic cutting boards are evil pic.twitter.com/juOVHU7w72  Case Bradford (@casbrad) February 17, 2024

The underlying claim that plastic cutting boards have been shown to shed microplastics into food is true, based on findings published from a small-scale study in the American Chemical Society's (ACS) scientific journal, Environmental Science & Technology, on May 23, 2023.

Typically, cutting boards are made of rubber, bamboo, wood, or plastic. When food is minced, chopped or sliced with knives while on these boards, small pieces of material have been shown to slough off. Small parts of plastic, in particular, are released into some food products prepared on cutting boards.

The ACS study was designed to determine how board material and chopping styles, both with and without vegetables present, influenced how much microplastic was released. First, five people chopped on three different polyethylene cutting boards without vegetables to measure the amount of microplastics released. Next, these same people chopped on polyethylene, polypropylene, and wooden boards to compare microplastic release across all three. Finally, carrots were chopped on the polyethylene board to see how the release compared when using a vegetable instead of when not.

The researchers found that plastic chopping boards were a "substantial source of microplastics in human food" influenced both by a person's chopping style and the cutting board's material.

While propylene was shown to shed more than polyethylene did, the study authors calculated between 14 and 17 million polyethylene microplastics and 79 million polypropylene microplastics from their respective boards each year. However, those figures may fluctuate based on how a person chops, the force needed to cut through certain foods, and the wear and tear of a particular board, among other factors.

"Our understanding is that human instincts will drive the required force based on the hardness of the food being chopped. For instance, a restaurant that chops steaks (e.g., chicken and beef) on plastic chopping boards before serving may see different microplastic counts in the final steaks," wrote the study authors.

It adds to a growing body of research aimed at understanding how microplastics enter the food chain. One study, for example, found that a single human takes in between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastics each year through food. Another found that people consume an estimated 1,530 microplastics through food and another 587 by drinking water.

And it's not just cutting boards that microplastics originate from. In 2021, researchers at Dalian University of Technology in China determined that plastic packaging can contaminate fruits and vegetables. Microwaving and heating plastic products have also been shown to release microplastics into food.

The ACS study found the plastics sloughed off weren't toxic to mice cells tested in a lab over 72 hours, but the long-term effects of ingesting microplastics aren't well documented. A World Health Organization (WHO) analysis of microplastic research available as of this publication found that "there is currently limited evidence to suggest microplastics are causing significant adverse health impacts."

"There are major knowledge gaps in scientific understanding of the impact of microplastics and the weight of the current evidence is low to conclude the casualty of adverse effects. Further and more holistic research is needed to obtain a more accurate assessment of exposure to microplastics and their potential impacts on human health," wrote WHO in a June 2023 news release.

From a "super worm" capable of eating plastic to claims related to the "Great Pacific Garbage Patch," Snopes has looked into digital rumors related to the world's most pervasive pollutant, available in our archive.

Sources:

Cox, Kieran D., et al. "Human Consumption of Microplastics." Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 53, no. 12, June 2019, pp. 706874. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.9b01517.

Deng, Jingyu, et al. "Microplastics Released from Food Containers Can Suppress Lysosomal Activity in Mouse Macrophages." Journal of Hazardous Materials, vol. 435, Aug. 2022, p. 128980. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128980.

Habib, Rana Zeeshan, Ruwaya Al Kindi, et al. "Microplastic Contamination of Chicken Meat and Fish through Plastic Cutting Boards." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, vol. 19, no. 20, Oct. 2022, p. 13442. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013442.

Habib, Rana Zeeshan, Vijo Poulose, et al. "Plastic Cutting Boards as a Source of Microplastics in Meat." Food Additives & Contaminants. Part A, Chemistry, Analysis, Control, Exposure & Risk Assessment, vol. 39, no. 3, Mar. 2022, pp. 60919. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.1080/19440049.2021.2017002.

"Https://Twitter.Com/Casbrad/Status/1758997527603327298." X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/casbrad/status/1758997527603327298. Accessed 21 Mar. 2024.

Hussain, Kazi Albab, et al. "Assessing the Release of Microplastics and Nanoplastics from Plastic Containers and Reusable Food Pouches: Implications for Human Health." Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 57, no. 26, July 2023, pp. 978292. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.3c01942.

Luo, Yunlong, et al. "Assessment of Microplastics and Nanoplastics Released from a Chopping Board Using Raman Imaging in Combination with Three Algorithms." Journal of Hazardous Materials, vol. 431, June 2022, p. 128636. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128636.

"Microplastics Found in Human Heart Tissues, Both before and after Surgical Procedures." American Chemical Society, https://www.acs.org/pressroom/presspacs/2023/august/microplastics-found-in-human-heart-tissues-before-and-after-surgical-procedures.html. Accessed 21 Mar. 2024.

Review Summarizes Microplastic Exposures to Humans | Food Packaging Forum. 24 June 2021, https://www.foodpackagingforum.org/news/review-summarizes-microplastic-exposures-to-humans.

US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. What Are Microplastics? https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/microplastics.html. Accessed 21 Mar. 2024.

Wang, Yize, et al. "Airborne Hydrophilic Microplastics in Cloud Water at High Altitudes and Their Role in Cloud Formation." Environmental Chemistry Letters, vol. 21, no. 6, Dec. 2023, pp. 305562. Springer Link, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10311-023-01626-x.

Wu, Panfeng, et al. "Environmental Occurrences, Fate, and Impacts of Microplastics." Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, vol. 184, Nov. 2019, p. 109612. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.109612.

Yadav, Himani, Md Rakib Hasan Khan, et al. "Cutting Boards: An Overlooked Source of Microplastics in Human Food?" Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 57, no. 22, June 2023, pp. 822535. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.3c00924.

Yadav, Himani, S. Sethulekshmi, et al. "Estimation of Microplastic Exposure via the Composite Sampling of Drinking Water, Respirable Air, and Cooked Food from Mumbai, India." Environmental Research, vol. 214, no. Pt 1, Nov. 2022, p. 113735. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2022.113735.
Claim:

A video that circulated in March 2024 showed Israelis filling a water well used by Palestinians with concrete.

Rating:

Rating: True

Context:

The video was more than 7 months old, as of this writing. A Palestinian news outlet, Quds News Network, first posted the footage in July 2023.

On March 22, 2024, Israel tweeted in honor of World Water Day, saying, "We are proud to use our expertise in water to create a safer, greener, more sustainable future for all."

Israel which is 60% desert used to face serious water shortages.



Thanks to advanced solutions like advanced filtration and drip irrigation, today Israel is a water powerhouse. #WorldWaterDay pic.twitter.com/7huqG3t9FY  Israel   (@Israel) March 22, 2024

Many users responded to the post with claims involving a video that was originally shared in July 2023, in which Israelis appeared to pour concrete into a water well used by Palestinians in the West Bank.

Water shortages because your filling Palestinian water wells with concrete https://t.co/w8Y9cAizsA  Robert (@the_LoungeFly) March 23, 2024

The video was authentic  that is, it was not a product of digital manipulation or artificial-intelligence software  and accurately captioned. A speaker in the video says the Israeli army was using "equipment, forces, bulldozers, and cement mixers to close the existing water springs and wells," according to an Arabic-to-English translation of the footage by Middle East Eye. Reputable news outlets including Al Jazeera confirmed that's what was happening.

However, it was not recorded recently; as of this writing, the footage was more than 7 months old.

The TikTok video featured in the above-mentioned X post was posted by Al Jazeera English on July 27, 2023, captioned: "Video footage show Israeli army personnel pouring cement into a water source which supplies Palestinians near the city of Hebron in the occupied West Bank." At the time, that news outlet shared the footage via its various social media accounts, crediting a Palestinian news outlet, Quds News Network, as the video's source.

As far as we can determine, Quds News Network was the first outlet to publish the footage online (archived here) on July 26, 2023. We contacted the outlet asking whether its reporters captured the video, or whether a reader submitted it for publication, and for information its location and subjects. We have not yet received a response, but we will update this report if that changes.

In other words, it was unknown who filmed the footage before its posting online by Quds News Network in July 2023.

Watch: The Israeli occupation pours cement into the water springs in the Al-Hijrah area, south of Hebron, to block them and prevent Palestinians from using them in agriculture. pic.twitter.com/D1oIwbv3Xv  Quds News Network (@QudsNen) July 26, 2023

In the video, an unidentified man said the following about what was taking place, according to the translation by Middle East Eye (archived here):

What happened is that we were on our land that we inherited and have been on for hundreds of years. We were surprised to the Israeli army coming with all its equipment, forces, bulldozers, and cement mixers to close the existing water springs and wells that we used to cultivate our land, which is 80 dunums [traditional unit of land area in the Middle East] in size. Also, plastic basins planted with cucumbers, tomatoes, and several vegetables, as well as outdoor cultivation that supports a large number of families here.

On Aug. 5, 2023, days after the Quds News Network's post, B'tselem (The Israeli Information Center for Human Rights in the Occupied Territories)  a Jerusalem-based nonprofit  posted additional footage of the incident from a different angle on its YouTube account. That video included the caption:

Israel pours concrete into well and destroys irrigation system in the Palestinian village of al-Hijrah, south of Hebron. On Wednesday morning, 26 July 2023, Civil Administration personnel arrived with a military and Border Police escort, a bulldozer and a cement mixer at the Palestinian village of al-Hijrah, south of Hebron. The forces poured concrete into four water wells and destroyed a roughly 20-meter-long pipe used to irrigate crops, damaging the crops themselves along the way. As they were working on destroying the pipe, the forces fired a sponge bullet at a Palestinian who approached the area, injuring him lightly in the back. He received treatment on site.

The Broader Context, and What Happened Next

According to a news story (archived here) by the Times of Israel on July 29, 2023, the Civil Administration unit said in a statement the well had been dug illegally, and, thus, potentially threatened natural water resources in the area.

When the video was first posted, multiple accounts on X defended Israeli officials' decision to fill the well. One account for the Israel Advocacy Movement, a U.K.-based organization, claimed "any alteration to the water system could have catastrophic consequences for all communities."

The internet: "Israel just destroyed a Palestinian well"



The reality: pic.twitter.com/UiW6UvgMiF  Israel Advocacy Movement (@israel_advocacy) July 28, 2023

The Israel Advocacy Movement pointed to Article 40 of the 1993 Oslo Accords, which requires both Israelis and Palestinians to "agree to coordinate the management of water and sewage resources and systems in the West Bank. The Oslo Accords are two agreements between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization intended to be in place temporarily. They remain in place today.

One day after the video was posted, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, Ghassan Alian, announced future "enforcements against allegedly illegal construction of water installations will have to be examined based on the merits of the case" and receive approval by the head of the Civil Administration unit. We reached out to COGAT, asking for more information on the specific guidelines that were violated and how, exactly, the water was possibly threatened. The agency has not responded to our inquiry yet.

In other words, after the video surfaced and the Times of Israel published its report, Israeli government officials announced they would add steps to their process of reviewing sites supposedly posing threats to water sources before taking action (like filling the holes with concrete).

When destroying property or infrastructure, particularly in the West Bank, Israeli government officials often claim the in-question sites are a military or security threat, or do not have the necessary permits. According to reporting by The Associated Press, Israel's complex system for granting permits for new construction is a way to prevent "Palestinians' attempts to live a semblance of a normal life." As stated in a 2018 article (archived here):

The system, mainly run by a military administration known by its acronym COGAT, has swelled into a sprawling bureaucracy with intricate categories and arcane rules, often opaque and confusing, according to interviews with those involved in and affected by the system. The result often confounds Palestinians' attempts to live a semblance of a normal life.

Access to water across Israel and the West Bank varies by location. One story by Al Jazeera, published about a month after the concrete-pouring video first surfaced online, said Israeli settlements in the West Bank flourished with greenery and children splashed in community pools, while Palestinian communities accessed "barely get enough water to bathe their children and wash their clothes  let alone sustain livestock and grow fruit trees."

We've previously reported on Palestinians' access to rainwater, and whether it is deemed Israeli property.

Sources:

B'tselem. Israel Pours Concrete into Well and Destroys Irrigation System in the Palestinian Village of Al-Hijrah, South of Hebron. 3 Aug. 2023, https://www.btselem.org/video/20230803_civil_administration_pours_concrete_into_irrigation_wells_used_and_destroys_pipe_in_al_hijrah_south_of_hebron#full.

'Chapter 3: Israeli Settlements and International Law'. Amnesty International, 30 Jan. 2019, https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/campaigns/2019/01/chapter-3-israeli-settlements-and-international-law/.

Department Of State. The Office of Electronic Information, Bureau of Public Affairs. The Oslo Accords, 1993. 13 Dec. 2007, https://2001-2009.state.gov/r/pa/ho/time/pcw/97181.htm#:~:text=During%20a%205%2Dyear%20interim,Jericho%20(excluding%20Israeli%20settlements).

'For Palestinians, Israeli Permits a Complex Tool of Control'. AP News, 30 Apr. 2018, https://apnews.com/article/7cfac1e5441747da841e51fdf3851460.

'Https://Twitter.Com/AJEnglish/Status/1684775691018240001'. X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/AJEnglish/status/1684775691018240001. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.

'Https://Twitter.Com/Israel_advocacy/Status/1684939086694367234'. X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/israel_advocacy/status/1684939086694367234. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.

'Https://Twitter.Com/NizMhani/Status/1769744685273137502'. X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/NizMhani/status/1769744685273137502. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.

'Https://Twitter.Com/Resist_05/Status/1769638495566643278'. X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/Resist_05/status/1769638495566643278. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.

'Https://Twitter.Com/QudsNen/Status/1684231413481054209'. X (Formerly Twitter), https://twitter.com/QudsNen/status/1684231413481054209. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.

Israeli Forces Fill Water Springs and Agricultural Lands in Hebron with Concrete. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZkSRlIs9o0. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.

Israel Pours Concrete into Well and Destroys Irrigation System, al-Hijrah, South of Hebron, 26.7.23. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZ1jXR-ymD0. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.

'Photos: Palestinians Still Struggle to Get Enough Water'. Al Jazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/gallery/2023/8/27/photos-palestinians-still-struggle-to-get-enough-water. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.

Oslo II Annex I. https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/oslo-ii-annex-i-3#app-40. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.

Tawil, Bassam. 'Palestinians Steal Water From Palestinians, Then Blame Israel'. Gatestone Institute, 2 Oct. 2023, https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/20006/palestinians-steal-water.

Times of Israel Staff. Settlers from Flashpoint West Bank Settlement Said to Torch Palestinian Field. 29 July 2023, https://www.timesofisrael.com/settlers-from-flashpoint-west-bank-settlement-said-to-torch-palestinian-field/.
FAIR LAWN  As the borough observes its centennial this year, it also set a new milestone: For the first time, women hold the majority of its council seats. The five-member governing body also welcomed its first Latina council member this week.

A hundred years is an awful long time to wait for change, newly appointed Mayor Gail Rottenstrich said Tuesday after she was sworn in, altering the gender balance on the panel.

But change is here. The future is here," she said, "and the future is most definitely female.

Newly appointed Fair Lawn Mayor Gail Rottenstrich took the oath of office Tuesday night as her family looked on. She was sworn in by state Assemblywoman and former Fair Lawn mayor Lisa Swain.

Rottenstrich, who has served on the Borough Council since 2017, took the oath of office at the municipal building on the same night fellow Democrat Nathalie Salinas was sworn in to fill a vacancy on the council. Its members appoint one of their own to serve as mayor for the borough of 35,000 residents.

Rottenstrich will fill that position after the resignation of former Mayor Kurt Peluso, who stepped down from the council after he was hired last month as borough manager. Salinas was appointed to fill Pelusos empty council seat.

The Fair Lawn council now has three female members, Rottenstrich, Salinas and Deputy Mayor Cristina Cutrone, and two men: Josh Reinitz, who serves as the deputy mayor of community affairs, and Kris Krause.

Fair Lawn mayor credits her mentor

In the past, Rottenstrich has served as deputy mayor and in the separate position of deputy mayor of community affairs. She is also the CEO of Zago Manufacturing Company, a Newark business that manufactures sealing fasteners and components, the borough website says.

Rottenstrich also serves on the boards of the New Jersey Manufacturers Extension Program, a nonprofit that assists state businesses; Infinity Tomorrow, which provides aid to adults with developmental disabilities; and Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan New Jersey.

Flappers, fedoras and Fair Lawn: Town has a roaring time reenacting first council meeting

She said it was an honor to be sworn in by state Assemblywoman Lisa Swain, a former Fair Lawn mayor whom she called her mentor and friend and who had first asked her to run for council. Rottenstrich joined Swain as one of six female mayors in the boroughs history.

I wouldnt have been able to run for office or be mayor if I didnt have the full support of my family, who I am so grateful to have here tonight, Rottenstrich added.

The new mayor promised to work diligently, productively and collaboratively so we can find the best solutions for the many challenges that we will face together as a team.

Councilwoman Salinas breaks ground

New Fair Lawn Councilwoman Nathalie Salinas stood with her family Tuesday while being sworn in by former mayor and current Borough Manager Kurt Peluso.

Salinas comes to the council with "20 years of marketing and production experience at a major international music company," says her profile on the borough site. She has also served as a production lead for the local Inaugural Latin Heritage Celebration, co-chaired the music committee at the local Arts & Music Festival and developed programming at Fair Lawns Senior Citizens Center, the profile says.

A first-generation Latina born to Ecuadorian parents, Salinas was proud, honored and excited to stand before you today as a newly appointed councilwoman here in Fair Lawn, she said Tuesday night.

I understand and welcome the responsibility of this role, she added. My upbringing was shaped by the love, sacrifice and guidance of my parents, [who] instilled in me the fundamental values of collaboration from an early age. I want to continue this spirit of collaboration as I serve the borough of Fair Lawn with dedication and passion.

Stephanie Noda is a local reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email: noda@northjersey.com

Twitter: @snoda11

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Fair Lawn NJ picks new mayor, breaks ground on inclusion
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  The increasing spring temperatures will also bring the annual seasonal spike in baby animal births, and Fairfax County Police Department are advising residents to resist the urge to help or rescue the baby animals.

When people see baby animals presumably left to fend for themselves, they feel the inclination to help, whether that be bringing it home or taking it to professionals. Research published by the University of Oxford in 2016 explains this nurturing instinct is due to the effect of cuteness on the human brain.

Virginia, Maryland neighborhoods among 20 best places to live in the US, study finds

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources said more than 75% of baby animals humans believe they are rescuing each year were never in danger and should have been left alone. Instead of approaching the animals, humans should keep 50 yards of distance.

Humans unfamiliar with normal wildlife behavior may misinterpret animal behavior as abnormal, leading to intervention. While an animal may look like it is alone, mothers could be close by scouting for food, or planning to return, according to the states Department of Wildlife Resources.

Animal Protection police officers said in a statement that while humans who intervene often mean well, but many baby animals that are brought to wildlife professionals are in no need of help from humans.

This behavior can have detrimental effects for humans and wildlife. Officers say human contact can cause stress and trauma for baby animals and spread disease to humans. Young animals can still carry rabies or diseases such as the Avian Influenza.

From 2022 to 2024, there were over 100 reported cases of highly pathogenic Avian Influenza in wild birds across the Virginia, Maryland and D.C. area, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Alexandria ends negotiations for proposed Potomac Yard arena, entertainment district

Fairfax County Wildlife Management officers say that if a baby animal is injured, humans should contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

When intervention is needed, officials always recommend the use of heavy gloves to prevent the spread of rabies. Virginia Department of Wild Resources officials advise humans never attempt to rescue adult animals, especially high risk animals such as bats or skunks.

Officials produced these guidelines to follow when determining if an animal is truly in need of help:

The animal shows signs of injury such as bleeding, swelling or a broken limb.

The animal is very cold, shivering, thin or weak.

The animal is on the ground unable to move or is nonresponsive.

The animal is featherless or not fully furred.

The animal shows signs of flies, worms or maggots.

The animal was picked up by a cat or dog, even if no injuries are visible.

There is a dead parent nearby or parents are separated and cannot be reunited.

A young animals best chance for survival is to receive natural care from its parents and remain wild, Fairfax County Animal Protection police said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Texas teen Kaitlin Hernandez was found brutally murdered under a bridge in her neighborhood two weeks ago, and her family is demanding justice for the "sweet" 17-year-old high schooler.

"The person or persons who did this to my niece, Kaitlin, is still out there, and we just want them to come forward," Hernandez's aunt, Crystal Rodriguez, told Fox News Digital.

Hernandez went on a walk around her San Antonio neighborhood with a male friend around 7:30 p.m. on the evening of March 12, when she vanished.

Hernandez's grandmother expected her to be gone for a half hour to an hour at most after the 17-year-old left for the walk, but when more time passed, she began to worry about the teen and contacted police. Just hours later, San Antonio police found her naked body in a drainage ditch beneath a bridge on the 7600 block of Dell Oak Drive.

TEXAS POLICE HUNT KILLER AFTER TEEN FOUND DEAD IN DITCH LIKE AN ANIMAL

Kaitlin Hernandez was about to graduate high school in May.

Police detained the friend, whom Hernandez had spent time with before, as a person of interest and has been "cooperating and assisting in the investigation," according to authorities and Hernandez's family. He had not been named or cleared as a suspect at the time of publication.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"At this time, this investigation is still active and ongoing by the SAPD Homicide Unit," San Antonio Police Department spokesperson Ricardo Guzman told Fox News Digital in a statement. "Currently, we have no updates to provide at this time."

TEXAS TEEN LIZBETH MEDINA MURDER SUSPECT PLEADS NOT GUILTY, LOOKS FORWARD TO HIS TRIAL, ATTORNEY SAYS

San Antonio police are looking for the person who brutally murdered Kaitlin Hernandez.

The Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed to Fox News Digital that Hernandez's cause of death was strangulation.

"Kaitlin didn't hate anybody. Nobody that we're aware of hated Kaitlin. She just got baptized last year. She was getting more involved into God. She was going to church. She loved and cared for animals. She was going to be a veterinarian after she graduated," Rodriguez said.

TEXAS TEEN LIZBETH MEDINA MURDER: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT SUSPECT RAFAEL ROMERO

"She had a lot of goals and a lot of dreams, and they took that from her," Rodriguez continued through tears. "She was loving. She was kind. She was never mean to anybody. I don't know why somebody would do this to her."

Rodriguez said the area where her niece's body was recovered has "a lot of homeless" and "drug activity."

Kaitlin Hernandez's family members are desperate for answers after the 17-year-old high school senior was found dead.

"She loved everybody and she was so sweet. She encouraged everybody. We don't know who could've wanted to hurt her," she said.

The San Antonio community remembered Hernandez during a march on Sunday, starting at the bridge where she was found dead.

LAKEN RILEY'S MOTHER SPEAKS OUT ABOUT AVOIDABLE TRAGEDY AFTER DAUGHTER'S FUNERAL

"The message to the public is just, please, if they know anything, just come forward. We want justice. We want peace," Rodriguez said. "And just hug your loved ones every day because one day, we're here; one day, we might not be."

GO HERE FOR MORE TRUE CRIME FROM FOX NEWS DIGITAL

Hernandez's aunt also thanked former Republican Texas Rep. Mayra Flores for her help in sharing Hernandez's story.

"I wanted to thank Congresswoman Mayra Flores for taking the time to even talk about my niece's story. She wants to help us get justice, as well," Rodriguez said.

San Antonio Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest in the case.

Hernandez was about to graduate from Roosevelt High School in May. Her 18-year-old sister, Kaylee, died last year.

Any information leading to the identity of this person of interest, please contact the SAPD Homicide unit at 210-207-7635 and provide them with case number SAPD24055687.





Original article source: Family of Texas teen brutally murdered on walk demands answers: 'Hug your loved ones'
Back in January, the International Court of Justice responded to a petition asking it to rule that Israels campaign in Gaza amounted to genocide. To the disappointment of the petitioner, South Africa, the court appeared to conclude that Israels campaign was not inherently genocidal, essentially affirming the principle of Israels right to military engagement for aims such as self-defense, the pursuit of terrorists, and hostage rescue. The Court also declined to call for a ceasefire, which it had also been asked to do.



The court did conclude, however, that it was plausible that crimes related to genocidepossibly but not necessarily including genocide itselfmight have occurred (a finding that drew Israels ire). In six provisional measures,' the court effectively put Israel on notice. Two of the measures essentially urged Israel and its defense forces to ensure that genocide did not occur in the course of responding to October 7; another compelled Israel to guard against incitement of genocide. Two others pertained to preserving evidence and reporting back to the Court. The court also urged Israel to address the adverse conditions of life faced by Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

Read More: Is Whats Happening in Gaza a Genocide? Experts Weigh In

The crux of the Genocide Conventionthe international treaty that gives the court jurisdictionis that genocide is not simply mass killing, even of civilians, but rather a term for an effort to destroy a people. It offers four means, beyond killing, by which that might take place: Causing serious bodily or mental harm . . . (clause 2b), inflicting . . . conditions of life calculated to bring about (a groups) physical destruction . . . (clause 2c),imposing measures to prevent births . . . (clause 2d), and forcibly transferring children from one group to another (clause 2e).



In the weeks after the ICJ order, battle casualties declined: roughly two-thirds of the roughly 32,000 deaths had already occurred by the new year. However, the humanitarian crisisthe part about which the ICG expressed explicit concernhas deepened. The UN reports that, as of late March, 75 % of the population of Gaza has been displaced from their homes. The prospect of an assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah is likely to exacerbate the situation drastically. An analysis by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (a.k.a. the IPC, a crisis monitoring collaboration among the worlds leading international aid groups) predicts that by mid-summer in the most likely scenario and under the assumption of an escalation of the conflict including a ground offensive in Rafah, half of the population of the Gaza Strip (1.11 million people) is expected to face catastrophic conditions. Thats identified in the analysis as Phase 5, faminethe most dire of possible outcomes the IPC can make.

Read More: How Experts Believe Starvation Is Being Utilized in Gaza



It is worth asking, given the courts concerns, whether the humanitarian crisis constitutes genocide. In legal terms, whether the situation can be deemed an act (or policy) of genocide depends on the parsing of the complete wording of Clause 2(C ): whether the conditions were deliberately inflicted, whether they reflect a calculation to bring about . . . the destruction of the Gazas Palestinian population, and, if so, whether an intent to destroy at least part of that population can be found to underlay that calculation.



In lay terms, the case is less complicated. The forced movement of much of Gazas population from the north of the territory to shelters and tent cities in the southtwinned with the policy of restricting relief to all of Gazahas made famine practically inevitable. Any plausible assessment of the consequences of these policies would have to constitute a calculation that the population would face the type of risks it now confronts. Indeed, projections late last year by the Famine Early Warning Systems network raised exactly these concerns.

Humanitarian aid is airdropped to Palestinians over Gaza City on March 25, 2024. Mahmoud EssaAP

Moreover, dangerous, slow-developing, and woefully insufficient famine mitigation measures like air-drops and temporary piers demonstrate both an awareness of the need for relief at a policy level and a willingness to be delusionally satisfied with band-aid measures. That Israel cited these measures, even though they were undertaken by other countries, as evidence of its good will and clean intentions, is damning rather than exculpatory.



What Gaza needs is a massive well-coordinated relief effort. The cessation of hostilities is a prerequisite for that. Recalcitrance on the part of either Israel or Hamas on reaching that cessation is inseparable from responsibility for the humanitarian crisis. In the absence of trust between one another, both sides should commit to allowing a third partywhether the UN, the U.S., the EU, Saudi Arabia or other Arab states, or whomever can be negotiated to play the roleto oversee the delivery of relief and monitor its distribution. Policy debates on issues including sovereignty status, security guarantees, and accountability for international crimes are an essential part of the medium-term solution for Gazabut they can only begin after Gazas human crisis has been addressed.



The reason to act is not that the International Court of Justice might mandate it. Nor because failing to act raises the possibility the court will make a finding of genocide under clause 2(c) of the Convention (although, it might). The reason to act is the moral responsibility to avert a preventable human catastrophe.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
OAK HILL, WV (WVNS)  An Oak Hill man was charged with Child Neglect and Wanton Endangerment after a road rage incident in Fayette County.

UPDATE: Man charged after double stabbing in Fayette County

According to the West Virginia State Police, Senior Trooper S.A. Wickline responded to a shooting complaint in the 5500 Block of Robert C. Bryd Drive in Mount Hope around 12:10 p.m. on March 26, 2024. Senior Trooper Wickline discovered that no one was injured and that medical attention was not necessary.

The press release stated that 44-year-old Michael Williams, of Oak Hill, allegedly fired a shot into the air before fleeing the area. He was later found at 1918 Summerlee Road in the Oak Hill area of Fayette County.

Senior Trooper Wickline determined that a road rage incident was the cause of the shooting, and that Williams one year old grandchild was with him when the incident occurred.

Williams was charged with Child Neglect and Wanton Endangerment in Fayette and Raleigh County.

Fayette County man convicted of first-degree murder

The West Virginia State Police stated that the investigation is ongoing.

Stick with 59News for updates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
Workers on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, continued to investigate and search for victims after the cargo ship Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse, early Tuesday in Baltimore, Maryland. Two survivors were pulled from the Patapsco River and six missing people are presumed dead after the Coast Guard called off rescue efforts. A work crew was fixing potholes on the bridge, which is used by roughly 30,000 people each day, when the ship struck at around 1:30 a.m. The accident has temporarily closed the Port of Baltimore, one of the largest and busiest on the East Coast of the United States. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg outlined Wednesday the immediate and longer-term priorities the Biden administration is pursuing in the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore that left six presumed dead.

While many questions remained roughly 36 hours after a massive cargo ship struck the bridge and caused the deadly collapse, Buttigieg at a White House press briefing reiterated President Joe Bidens pledge a day earlier for the federal government to fund the full cost of rebuilding the bridge.

The U.S. Coast Guard is also leading efforts to clear debris from the site to reopen operations at the busy Port of Baltimore, Vice Admiral Peter Gautier, the deputy commandant for operations for the Coast Guard, said at the briefing.

Its just too soon to say exactly how much money or time will be needed to rebuild the bridge or open the port, Buttigieg told reporters.

Rebuilding will not be quick or easy or cheap, Buttigieg said. But we will get it done.

The U.S. Transportation Department received a preliminary estimate from the Maryland Department of Transportation around the time Buttigieg addressed reporters at the Wednesday afternoon briefing, he said.

He did not share the sum requested, but said the states official request would allow federal money to flow even before a full cost is known.

Congressional action likely needed

The bipartisan infrastructure law enacted in 2021 authorized funding for the Transportation Departments emergency relief program, which would likely be a mechanism for federal funding, Buttigieg said, though he added its likely Congress will have to approve more emergency appropriations.

It is certainly possible  I would go so far as to say likely  that we may be turning to Congress in order to help top-up those funds, Buttigieg said. But that shouldnt be a barrier to the immediate next few days starting to get the ball rolling.

The emergency relief account has about $950 million, Buttigieg said, but also a long line of needs and projects behind that.

The Federal Highway Administrations emergency fund allocated about $560 million in fiscal 2024.

Asked if the companies that own and operate the ship involved, the Dali, would be made to pay for reconstruction, Buttigieg said the government would pursue accountability for any private party found to be responsible, but that Biden didnt want to wait for that process to play out before sending funds to Maryland.

For the second day in a row, Biden spoke with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, members of the states congressional delegation and local leaders and reiterated his administrations support every step of the way, according to a White House pool report.

The administration could ease regulatory requirements to speed bridge construction, Buttigieg said, though he noted it was too early to know what regulations would be at play.

We have a clear direction from the president to tear down any barriers, bureaucratic as well as financial, that could affect the timeline of this project, he said.

Port reopening

Buttigieg did not have an estimate for how long it would take to rebuild the bridge or to reopen the port. The initial construction of the Key Bridge took five years in the 1970s, he said.

That does not necessarily mean it will take five years to replace, but that tells you what went into that original structure, he said. So it is going to be some time.

The port could be reopened before a new bridge is built, he said.

Debris from the collapsed bridge is blocking the shipping channel connecting the port to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The remains of the bridge must be cleared before the port can restart operations.

Reopening the port is among the administrations top priorities in the aftermath of the collapse.

The port is a major economic hub, directly supporting 8,000 jobs and about $2 million in wages daily, Buttigieg said.

The port also usually handles between $100 million and $200 million in cargo daily. But the disruption to shipping traffic is slightly less urgent, Buttigieg said.

Ships often visit the port as part of a run along the Eastern Seaboard, including the Port of New York and New Jersey and Virginia ports, he said. Cargo is already being diverted to other East Coast ports, he said.

That said, the Port of Baltimore is an important port, he said. So for our supply chains, and for all the workers who depend on it for their income, were going to help to get it open as soon as safely possible.

Investigation ongoing

Buttigieg declined to comment in detail on the investigation into the crash, which is being conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board, an independent agency.

The bridge, which opened in 1977, was not built to withstand the force of a 200-million-pound vessel crashing into a key structural feature, he said, casting doubt on whether any engineering feature could have helped.

Part of whats being debated is whether any design feature now known would have made a difference in this case, Buttigieg said.

But, he said, if the NTSB determines anything that should be considered in regulations, inspections, designs or funding for bridges, the administration would be ready to apply those findings.

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The post Federal rebuild of Baltimore bridge will not be quick or easy or cheap, Buttigieg says appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. The Israeli army said it had neutralized the deputy commander of Hamas' military wing, Marwan Issa, IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari said at a press conference, Trend reports.

Issa was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike in central Gaza earlier this month.

Hagari said that besides Issa, one of the senior Hamas commanders was killed as a result of an Israeli army strike on the Nuseirat refugee camp on March 10.

A combined attack was carried out on Israel on October 7. From the beginning, a massive rocket attack began from the territory of the Gaza Strip, followed by the penetration of militants by land, water, and air.

Israel declared a state of war after a massive rocket attack from the Gaza Strip. Moreover, Israel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced a mass gathering of reservists.
Workers on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, continued to investigate and search for victims after the cargo ship Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse, early Tuesday in Baltimore, Maryland. Two survivors were pulled from the Patapsco River and six missing people are presumed dead after the Coast Guard called off rescue efforts. A work crew was fixing potholes on the bridge, which is used by roughly 30,000 people each day, when the ship struck at around 1:30 a.m. The accident has temporarily closed the Port of Baltimore, one of the largest and busiest on the East Coast of the United States. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Quality Journalism for Critical Times

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg outlined Wednesday the immediate and longer-term priorities the Biden administration is pursuing in the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore that left six presumed dead.

While many questions remained roughly 36 hours after a massive cargo ship struck the bridge and caused the deadly collapse, Buttigieg at a White House press briefing reiterated President Joe Bidens pledge a day earlier for the federal government to fund the full cost of rebuilding the bridge.

The U.S. Coast Guard is also leading efforts to clear debris from the site to reopen operations at the busy Port of Baltimore, Vice Admiral Peter Gautier, the deputy commandant for operations for the Coast Guard, said at the briefing.

Its just too soon to say exactly how much money or time will be needed to rebuild the bridge or open the port, Buttigieg told reporters.

Rebuilding will not be quick or easy or cheap, Buttigieg said. But we will get it done.

The U.S. Transportation Department received a preliminary estimate from the Maryland Department of Transportation around the time Buttigieg addressed reporters at the Wednesday afternoon briefing, he said.

He did not share the sum requested, but said the states official request would allow federal money to flow even before a full cost is known.

Congressional action likely needed

The bipartisan infrastructure law enacted in 2021 authorized funding for the Transportation Departments emergency relief program, which would likely be a mechanism for federal funding, Buttigieg said, though he added its likely Congress will have to approve more emergency appropriations.

It is certainly possible  I would go so far as to say likely  that we may be turning to Congress in order to help top-up those funds, Buttigieg said. But that shouldnt be a barrier to the immediate next few days starting to get the ball rolling.

The emergency relief account has about $950 million, Buttigieg said, but also a long line of needs and projects behind that.

The Federal Highway Administrations emergency fund allocated about $560 million in fiscal 2024.

Asked if the companies that own and operate the ship involved, the Dali, would be made to pay for reconstruction, Buttigieg said the government would pursue accountability for any private party found to be responsible, but that Biden didnt want to wait for that process to play out before sending funds to Maryland.

For the second day in a row, Biden spoke with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, members of the states congressional delegation and local leaders and reiterated his administrations support every step of the way, according to a White House pool report.

The administration could ease regulatory requirements to speed bridge construction, Buttigieg said, though he noted it was too early to know what regulations would be at play.

We have a clear direction from the president to tear down any barriers, bureaucratic as well as financial, that could affect the timeline of this project, he said.

Port reopening

Buttigieg did not have an estimate for how long it would take to rebuild the bridge or to reopen the port. The initial construction of the Key Bridge took five years in the 1970s, he said.

That does not necessarily mean it will take five years to replace, but that tells you what went into that original structure, he said. So it is going to be some time.

The port could be reopened before a new bridge is built, he said.

Debris from the collapsed bridge is blocking the shipping channel connecting the port to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The remains of the bridge must be cleared before the port can restart operations.

Reopening the port is among the administrations top priorities in the aftermath of the collapse.

The port is a major economic hub, directly supporting 8,000 jobs and about $2 million in wages daily, Buttigieg said.

The port also usually handles between $100 million and $200 million in cargo daily. But the disruption to shipping traffic is slightly less urgent, Buttigieg said.

Ships often visit the port as part of a run along the Eastern Seaboard, including the Port of New York and New Jersey and Virginia ports, he said. Cargo is already being diverted to other East Coast ports, he said.

That said, the Port of Baltimore is an important port, he said. So for our supply chains, and for all the workers who depend on it for their income, were going to help to get it open as soon as safely possible.

Investigation ongoing

Buttigieg declined to comment in detail on the investigation into the crash, which is being conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board, an independent agency.

The bridge, which opened in 1977, was not built to withstand the force of a 200-million-pound vessel crashing into a key structural feature, he said, casting doubt on whether any engineering feature could have helped.

Part of whats being debated is whether any design feature now known would have made a difference in this case, Buttigieg said.

But, he said, if the NTSB determines anything that should be considered in regulations, inspections, designs or funding for bridges, the administration would be ready to apply those findings.

The post Federal rebuild of Baltimore bridge will not be quick or easy or cheap, Buttigieg says appeared first on Florida Phoenix.
Workers continue to investigate and search for victims after the cargo ship Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing it to collapse yesterday, on March 27, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. Two survivors were pulled from the Patapsco River and six missing people are presumed dead after the Coast Guard called off rescue efforts. A work crew was fixing potholes on the bridge, which is used by roughly 30,000 people each day, when the ship struck at around 1:30am on Tuesday morning. The accident has temporarily closed the Port of Baltimore, one of the largest and busiest on the East Coast of the U.S. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg outlined Wednesday the immediate and longer-term priorities the Biden administration is pursuing in the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore that left six presumed dead.

While many questions remained roughly 36 hours after a massive cargo ship struck the bridge and caused the deadly collapse, Buttigieg at a White House press briefing reiterated President Joe Bidens pledge a day earlier for the federal government to fund the full cost of rebuilding the bridge.

The U.S. Coast Guard is also leading efforts to clear debris from the site to reopen operations at the busy Port of Baltimore, Vice Admiral Peter Gautier, the deputy commandant for operations for the Coast Guard, said at the briefing.

Its just too soon to say exactly how much money or time will be needed to rebuild the bridge or open the port, Buttigieg told reporters.

Rebuilding will not be quick or easy or cheap, Buttigieg said. But we will get it done.

The U.S. Transportation Department received a preliminary estimate from the Maryland Department of Transportation around the time Buttigieg addressed reporters at the Wednesday afternoon briefing, he said.

He did not share the sum requested, but said the states official request would allow federal money to flow even before a full cost is known.

Congressional action likely needed

The bipartisan infrastructure law enacted in 2021 authorized funding for the Transportation Departments emergency relief program, which would likely be a mechanism for federal funding, Buttigieg said, though he added its likely Congress will have to approve more emergency appropriations.

It is certainly possible  I would go so far as to say likely  that we may be turning to Congress in order to help top-up those funds, Buttigieg said. But that shouldnt be a barrier to the immediate next few days starting to get the ball rolling.

The emergency relief account has about $950 million, Buttigieg said, but also a long line of needs and projects behind that.

The Federal Highway Administrations emergency fund allocated about $560 million in fiscal 2024.

Asked if the companies that own and operate the ship involved, the Dali, would be made to pay for reconstruction, Buttigieg said the government would pursue accountability for any private party found to be responsible, but that Biden didnt want to wait for that process to play out before sending funds to Maryland.

For the second day in a row, Biden spoke with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, members of the states congressional delegation and local leaders and reiterated his administrations support every step of the way, according to a White House pool report.

The administration could ease regulatory requirements to speed bridge construction, Buttigieg said, though he noted it was too early to know what regulations would be at play.

We have a clear direction from the president to tear down any barriers, bureaucratic as well as financial, that could affect the timeline of this project, he said.

Port reopening

Buttigieg did not have an estimate for how long it would take to rebuild the bridge or to reopen the port. The initial construction of the Key Bridge took five years in the 1970s, he said.

That does not necessarily mean it will take five years to replace, but that tells you what went into that original structure, he said. So it is going to be some time.

The port could be reopened before a new bridge is built, he said.

Debris from the collapsed bridge is blocking the shipping channel connecting the port to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The remains of the bridge must be cleared before the port can restart operations.

Reopening the port is among the administrations top priorities in the aftermath of the collapse.

The port is a major economic hub, directly supporting 8,000 jobs and about $2 million in wages daily, Buttigieg said.

The port also usually handles between $100 million and $200 million in cargo daily. But the disruption to shipping traffic is slightly less urgent, Buttigieg said.

Ships often visit the port as part of a run along the Eastern Seaboard, including the Port of New York and New Jersey and Virginia ports, he said. Cargo is already being diverted to other East Coast ports, he said.

That said, the Port of Baltimore is an important port, he said. So for our supply chains, and for all the workers who depend on it for their income, were going to help to get it open as soon as safely possible.

Investigation ongoing

Buttigieg declined to comment in detail on the investigation into the crash, which is being conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board, an independent agency.

The bridge, which opened in 1977, was not built to withstand the force of a 200-million-pound vessel crashing into a key structural feature, he said, casting doubt on whether any engineering feature could have helped.

Part of whats being debated is whether any design feature now known would have made a difference in this case, Buttigieg said.

But, he said, if the NTSB determines anything that should be considered in regulations, inspections, designs or funding for bridges, the administration would be ready to apply those findings.

The post Federal rebuild of Baltimore bridge will not be quick or easy or cheap, Buttigieg says appeared first on Arkansas Advocate.
Workers on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, continued to investigate and search for victims after the cargo ship Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse, early Tuesday in Baltimore, Maryland. Two survivors were pulled from the Patapsco River and six missing people are presumed dead after the Coast Guard called off rescue efforts. A work crew was fixing potholes on the bridge, which is used by roughly 30,000 people each day, when the ship struck at around 1:30 a.m. The accident has temporarily closed the Port of Baltimore, one of the largest and busiest on the East Coast of the United States. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg outlined Wednesday the immediate and longer-term priorities the Biden administration is pursuing in the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore that left six presumed dead.

While many questions remained roughly 36 hours after a massive cargo ship struck the bridge and caused the deadly collapse, Buttigieg at a White House press briefing reiterated President Joe Bidens pledge a day earlier for the federal government to fund the full cost of rebuilding the bridge.

The U.S. Coast Guard is also leading efforts to clear debris from the site to reopen operations at the busy Port of Baltimore, Vice Admiral Peter Gautier, the deputy commandant for operations for the Coast Guard, said at the briefing.

Its just too soon to say exactly how much money or time will be needed to rebuild the bridge or open the port, Buttigieg told reporters.

Rebuilding will not be quick or easy or cheap, Buttigieg said. But we will get it done.

The U.S. Transportation Department received a preliminary estimate from the Maryland Department of Transportation around the time Buttigieg addressed reporters at the Wednesday afternoon briefing, he said.

He did not share the sum requested, but said the states official request would allow federal money to flow even before a full cost is known.

Congressional action likely needed

The bipartisan infrastructure law enacted in 2021 authorized funding for the Transportation Departments emergency relief program, which would likely be a mechanism for federal funding, Buttigieg said, though he added its likely Congress will have to approve more emergency appropriations.

It is certainly possible  I would go so far as to say likely  that we may be turning to Congress in order to help top-up those funds, Buttigieg said. But that shouldnt be a barrier to the immediate next few days starting to get the ball rolling.

The emergency relief account has about $950 million, Buttigieg said, but also a long line of needs and projects behind that.

The Federal Highway Administrations emergency fund allocated about $560 million in fiscal 2024.

Asked if the companies that own and operate the ship involved, the Dali, would be made to pay for reconstruction, Buttigieg said the government would pursue accountability for any private party found to be responsible, but that Biden didnt want to wait for that process to play out before sending funds to Maryland.

For the second day in a row, Biden spoke with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, members of the states congressional delegation and local leaders and reiterated his administrations support every step of the way, according to a White House pool report.

The administration could ease regulatory requirements to speed bridge construction, Buttigieg said, though he noted it was too early to know what regulations would be at play.

We have a clear direction from the president to tear down any barriers, bureaucratic as well as financial, that could affect the timeline of this project, he said.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg speaks at a press conference beneath Interstate 70 in Clear Creek County, Colorado on Feb. 24, 2022. (Chase Woodruff/Colorado Newsline)

Port reopening

Buttigieg did not have an estimate for how long it would take to rebuild the bridge or to reopen the port. The initial construction of the Key Bridge took five years in the 1970s, he said.

That does not necessarily mean it will take five years to replace, but that tells you what went into that original structure, he said. So it is going to be some time.

The port could be reopened before a new bridge is built, he said.

Debris from the collapsed bridge is blocking the shipping channel connecting the port to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The remains of the bridge must be cleared before the port can restart operations.

Reopening the port is among the administrations top priorities in the aftermath of the collapse.

The port is a major economic hub, directly supporting 8,000 jobs and about $2 million in wages daily, Buttigieg said.

The port also usually handles between $100 million and $200 million in cargo daily. But the disruption to shipping traffic is slightly less urgent, Buttigieg said.

Ships often visit the port as part of a run along the Eastern Seaboard, including the Port of New York and New Jersey and Virginia ports, he said. Cargo is already being diverted to other East Coast ports, he said.

That said, the Port of Baltimore is an important port, he said. So for our supply chains, and for all the workers who depend on it for their income, were going to help to get it open as soon as safely possible.

Investigation ongoing

Buttigieg declined to comment in detail on the investigation into the crash, which is being conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board, an independent agency.

The bridge, which opened in 1977, was not built to withstand the force of a 200-million-pound vessel crashing into a key structural feature, he said, casting doubt on whether any engineering feature could have helped.

Part of whats being debated is whether any design feature now known would have made a difference in this case, Buttigieg said.

But, he said, if the NTSB determines anything that should be considered in regulations, inspections, designs or funding for bridges, the administration would be ready to apply those findings.

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The post Federal rebuild of Baltimore bridge will not be quick or easy or cheap, Buttigieg says appeared first on Colorado Newsline.
Broadband illustration (Wikimedia Commons)

The federal government approved Montanas plan to address disparities in broadband access  which opens up the state to compete for more federal funding to bridge the digital divide.

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration on Tuesday approved the states plan to expand digital access, skills and affordability as part of the federal $2.75 billion Digital Equity Act.

Montanas Digital Opportunity Plan listed barriers to digital access, which include broadband availability, service affordability, device access, and digital skills  with access and affordability being the top two. The plan is intended to serve as a guide for the states efforts to narrow the digital divide. Montana ranks lowest in the country in internet access, with rural communities struggling with access the most.

The state created the plan using just more than $600,000 from the State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program, according to the NTIA.

Gov. Greg Gianforte said in a statement one of his administrations top priorities is to expand broadband access to underserved and unserved areas of Montana and address digital literacy.

Lack of broadband access shouldnt stand between Montanans and opportunities for a good-paying job, greater education, and affordable, high-quality health care, Gianforte said.

The Department of Administration drafted the Digital Opportunity Plan in tandem with the BEAD Five Year Action Plan  which the state submitted along with initial proposals to access $629 million in federal funds to deploy high-speed fiber in unserved communities across the state. The plan said efforts to improve broadband availability will largely be funded through BEAD  the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program.

In 2022, the state signed off on $309 million in grants using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act towards broadband projects. The Department of Administration, which oversees the Montana Broadband Office, said Wednesday the approved grants from this funding were awarded and are under contract with the respective awardees. The department did not respond to a question about the status of these projects in time for publication.

The Digital Opportunity Plan outlined how broadband access is necessary to implement the states goals across departments, including in the economy, workforce development, education, health care, civic and social engagement, and the delivery of other essential services.

The main reason some Montanans dont have access to high speed internet is lack of availability, the plan says.

More than 70% of the elderly, veterans, and racial and ethnic minorities  target communities in the plan  reported not having high speed internet available to them, and noted lack of available internet options as a key barrier to access.

The state is also looking to bring service to rural communities, low-income Montanans, incarcerated people in state facilities, people with disabilities, and those with language barriers. These communities lack internet access at higher rates than other groups in the state, according to the plan.

The approved plan says rural areas in the state have the highest total number of unserved and underserved broadband access areas, with 7,826 underserved and 19,208 unserved. Rural communities also have higher elderly populations who either cant afford broadband or dont have digital skills to access the internet.

Most Montana counties use some form of broadband, but five counties  Rosebud, Glacier, Powell, Mineral and Roosevelt  have less than 60% adoption of broadband from satellites, cell phone data or DSL.

The second most common reason for not having broadband in Montana is affordability, with the Montana Broadband Office finding 17% of Montanans without high speed internet citing cost as their top reason for not having access. The state ranks 49th in access to affordable internet plans, according to BroadbandNow in 2021, with 62% of households having access to plans for $60 per month or less. The state also ranked last in access to high speed internet.

The state is planning to use federal dollars through BEAD to get broadband access to unserved and underserved areas. Internet providers are starting to apply to pre-qualify for BEAD-funded projects to the Communications Advisory Commission. The commission is scheduled to select projects and submit a finished proposal at the end of the year.

The post Feds approve Montanas plan to expand broadband access appeared first on Daily Montanan.
Federal authorities say six people are accused of scheming and stealing from Lowes stores in the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida.

According to an indictment filed earlier this month in South Carolina, federal prosecutors say a crime ring made at least 24 fraudulent transactions dating back to June of last year. Now, authorities could end up seizing a house in Charlotte as restitution.

The indictment names the following defendants: Lamphrey Kpakpo James III, Raheem Richardson, Timothy Lee Watford, Claris Sailoman, Quanetta Crosby, and Sha-Malcolm Calhoun.

According to the indictment, the suspects would make fake identification cards with their pictures. They would claim to be authorized buyers with corporate accounts and then go shopping for building supplies.

There are 40 criminal counts listed in the indictment, outlining each transaction made by one or more of the suspects.

The indictment says the suspects got a minimum of $293,000 as a result of the scheme.

Authorities say a house in northeast Charlotte is connected to the case, and theyre seeking forfeiture of the home. The home is registered to James and another person whos not identified as a suspect.

The U.S. Attorneys Office hasnt said if the suspects were taken into custody.

Channel 9 is working on getting more information on this case. Check back for updates.

(WATCH: Lowes donates $250K to east Charlotte community)
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Pima County officials said they will continue to oversee a system to take in migrants and asylum seekers released at the Arizona-Mexico border after receiving assurances from the federal government that more money would be coming their way after the March 31 fiscal cliff they faced.

County Administrator Jan Lesher outlined that position Tuesday in a memo to the Pima County Board of Supervisors. Lesher previously had warned the board they would run out of federal funds March 31 and the county would have to stop participating in statewide efforts to avoid having migrants and asylum seekers released directly into the streets of Arizona border communities.

"I have sufficient confidence in the federal reassurances of funding, that I have directed County staff to work with Catholic Community Services (CCS) to plan for continued operations at the Ajo and Drexel facilities beyond the end of this month," Lesher said.

Those reassurances came after Congress allocated $650 million dollars to the Shelter and Services Program, a federal program managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency that distributes funding to local governments and nonprofits providing humanitarian assistance to migrants at the border and in the interior of the country. That money is part of a $1.2 trillion spending bill passed over the weekend.

Migrants board a bus behind the Pimeria Alta Historical Society Museum in Nogales after being dropped off by Border Patrol on Dec. 14, 2023.

Pima County acts as the main fiscal agency for most of southern Arizona, distributing the money to other local governments and nonprofits in the region to cover expenses, such as medical screenings, food, transportation and housing for migrants that U.S. Customs and Border Protection cleared for release after processing them at the Arizona border.

FEMA has not announced how much of the $650 million will go to Arizona governments and nonprofits. Since 2019, Pima County has received about $77 million from the federal government to cover humanitarian aid costs.

"It is our expectation that in the coming weeks we will receive formal notice of additional federal funds that will be directed to Pima County in support of our operation," Lesher said in the memo.

A migrant feeds her child while waiting for transportation at the Regional Center for Border Health in Somerton.

In the meantime, she directed her staff to look at ways to make the funds last longer, and said the board will have to vote to extend vendor contracts to keep their operation going past March 31. The county's main partner is Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona, which operates Casa Alitas, two migrant shelters in Tucson that can receive hundreds of migrants daily from across southern Arizona.

Pima County leaders welcomed Lesher's announcement and additional funding set aside by Congress to help manage migrants releases at the border. They previously had called on the federal government to step up and not place the burden on local governments on nonprofits.

"It will prevent hundreds of people a day from struggling to find the resources to travel on to their families and sponsors in other cities, and protects our community, ensuring safety for everyone," board chair Adelita Grijalva said. "However, this is not a solution to the problem; its only treating a symptom. When this money runs out, we could be facing in a few months the crisis we just averted."

Pima County District 5 Supervisor Adelita S. Grijalva, left, and Pima County Administrator Jan Lesher, right, attend a press conference at the Lukeville Port of Entry in Lukeville, Ariz., on January 4, 2024.

February statistics released Friday showed that the Tucson Sector, which covers Pima, Cochise and Santa Cruz counties, continued as the busiest crossing route along the southern border. Border agents encountered more than 49,000 migrants between the ports of entry.

County leaders and nonprofits worried about what would happen past March 31, if they ran out of federal funds. That likely would have meant a reduced capacity at migrant shelters, plus the release of hundreds of migrants and asylum seekers at bus stations and other locations in smaller cities without transportation infrastructure, leaving migrants stranded.

Gov. Katie Hobbs expressed her relief in a written statement distributed Tuesday by Pima County that they will continue their operations providing humanitarian assistance to released migrants and asylum seekers at the border. She also praised the state's congressional delegation for securing additional funding for the Shelter and Services Program.

The state's Department of Emergency and Military Affairs has been busing migrants from Douglas, Nogales and Casa Grande to Tucson and Phoenix. Her administration helped Pima County purchase a large call center that now functions as Casa Alitas' main shelter and intake center for migrants in Tucson.

"From the beginning, I've remained committed to prioritizing practical solutions over political gamesmanship in addressing the border crisis, and today, that commitment is delivering results," Hobbs said. "Moving forward, I will continue working closely with our federal partners to ensure the swift distribution of these funds to support Arizonas border communities, safeguarding the safety and security of our families while fighting to prevent unmitigated street releases."

Have any news tips or story ideas about immigration in the Southwest? Reach the reporter at rafael.carranza@arizonarepublic.com, or follow him on X (formerly Twitter): @RafaelCarranza.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Feds to send money to southern Arizona to avoid migrant release crisis
David Tydeman had indicated further delays to delivery of the Glen Sannox were "likely"

The Scottish government is facing calls to explain the sacking of the head of the company building two hugely delayed and over-budget CalMac ferries.

Ferguson Marine announced on Tuesday it had terminated the contract of chief executive David Tydeman.

The reasons for his departure were not revealed but it is understood it was over concerns about his performance.

The Scottish Conservatives have called on Economy Secretary Mairi McAllan to explain the decision at Holyrood.

Graham Simpson, the party's shadow transport minister, said Mr Tydeman was "widely respected" and "appeared to be delivering".

Mr Simpson has tabled an urgent question to the Scottish Parliament in an attempt to force the cabinet secretary to provide an explanation for the decision.

The cost of two ferries being built at the state-owned shipyard, the Glen Sannox and Glen Rosa, is running at nearly four times the initial 97m cost. They will also be delivered six years late.

Mr Tydeman joined the Port Glasgow shipyard in 2022, having previously run a yacht-building company.

On Tuesday Ms McAllan said it was "unacceptable" that he had intimated a further delay to delivery of the Glen Sannox was "likely". The vessel was supposed to be delivered in May.

The Glen Rosa is scheduled to be delivered "no later than" September 2025.

Mr Tydeman had recently attempted to highlight progress on the Glen Sannox, praising its performance in sea trials earlier this year.

"What Mairi McAllan has to do today is come to Parliament and tell us exactly what these performance issues are," Mr Simpson told the BBC's Good Morning Scotland programme.

"It is not acceptable to sack someone who is widely respected in the industry and not say what the issue is."

Scottish Labour have also said the "sudden overhaul" in senior personnel "raises serious questions and the public deserve transparency about what has happened".

'Paid the price'

Mr Tydeman's contract was terminated by Ferguson Marine amid a number of changes among the company's senior management.

Board chairman Andrew Miller said the shipyard needed "strong leadership to ensure its long-term future".

John McMunagle, co-convenor of the GMB union which represents workers at the yard, said they were "shocked and surprised" at Mr Tydeman's departure.

"David inherited an almost impossible job," Mr McMunagle told the BBC. "Arguably out of six or seven CEOs we have had, David has been the best of them.

"It is hard. David was probably optimistic in putting out dates that maybe weren't achievable and I think he has paid the price of that."

The Glen Sannox underwent sea trials in February ahead of its scheduled delivery this year

Mr McMunagle said the workforce nevertheless welcomed the appointment of non-executive director John Petticrew as interim CEO.

"John's obviously a shipyard man," he added. "He served his time in the local Greenock shipyard before moving to Canada. We met with him yesterday and we are going to throw our weight behind John and fully support him.

"With Glen Rosa going into the water on 9 April and Glen Sannox leaving for dry dock, it is going to leave us acutely short of work. We need to source some short-term work to keep this workforce busy."

Ferguson Marine's former owner, Jim McColl, told the BBC it was "appalling" that Mr Tydeman had been dismissed and that he "had no chance at all".

Mr McColl rescued the last civilian shipyard on the River Clyde from administration in 2014 and agreed the initial contract in 2015 to build the two ferries for CMAL - the government agency which owns and procures ships for CalMac.

He blamed "fundamental shortcomings in the specification" at the outset and constant design changes for the subsequent fiasco.

"David Tydeman is not the problem," Mr McColl said. "The fantastic workforce are not the problem. CalMac are not the problem. It is the design of the ferries and the incompetence of CMAL in this whole process."

Delivery of the Glen Sannox and Glen Rosa vessels have been plagued by delays

Construction of the two vessels, the first ships ever built by a UK shipyard capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG), has been plagued by design challenges since the order was placed in 2015.

Steel fabrication outpaced detailed design work, leading to errors and reworking, with repeated delays and cost increases that continued after the Port Glasgow yard fell back into administration and was nationalised in 2019.

In February, Mr Miller told MSPs it would be harder to return the business to the private sector without investment in a new automated plating line - with the company seeking further finance from the Scottish government.

The company is due to submit a new business case to ministers by the end of March.

In 2022, a number of Ferguson Marine workers who took part in an informal meeting with MSPs praised Mr Tydeman's leadership and compared him favourably to the shipyard's previous management, saying he "talked sense".
Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., cuts a different figure in the U.S. Senate.

And were not referring to his hulking, 6-foot-7, nose tackle frame. Or Fettermans signature, ever-present hoodie.

Were talking about Fetterman crafting a distinct image in the Senate. Not a "progressive," as most voters thought. A Democrat who is willing to endorse most of H.R. 2, the Houses strict border control bill. A Democrat who opposes the left wing of his party when it comes to Israel and Hamas. And a senator who, unlike most of his Democratic colleagues, skewers indicted Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J.  in the most frank terms.

"A real sleazeball," said Fetterman of Menendez.

Sen. John Fetterman spoke at a press conference alongside the families of Israelis being held hostage by Hamas. (Getty Images)

CONGRESS EXPECTED TO CONSIDER EMERGENCY SPENDING MEASURE TO REPLACE BALTIMORE BRIDGE AFTER COLLAPSE

After his stroke, Fetterman struggled to process audio and words. He now uses an app that presents the exact words you are saying to him on his phone. The app then also shows the words Fetterman speaks. The captions help Fetterman take part in conversations and understand what is being said around him.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Fox News had the chance to sit down with Fetterman for an interview. The exchange has been lightly edited for context and clarity.

Chad Pergram: In your short period of time in the Senate, you have sometimes plowed a different road than some of your Democratic colleagues on different issues. Talk about how you arrived at those decisions that differ from what some people expected from you politically when you came to the Senate.

Fetterman: I know that some people were caught by surprise. And, you know, even when I just said, you know, in passing that Im not a progressive, Ive been saying that for years, actually. I've just really been committed to really being on what I thought it was like the right side on these things. And no, maybe politically it might be less popular with our base.

Pergram: It kind of seemed like, when we saw the change, when you and I first talked, it was on the border and border security. That was something that you differed from some of your Democratic colleagues.

Sen. John Fetterman arrives at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 21, 2023.

Fetterman: When you started just following the numbers that are coming again and then when youve reached 200,000 or 250,000 folks that are encountered at the border  I mean thats astonishing. And then just putting that in the context of Pennsylvania. I was like, Oh my goodness. Thats nearly the size of Pittsburgh. And thats our second-largest city. You can be very pro-immigration, but also demand and require that we have a secure border there as well too. I dont know why thats really controversial for a Democrat or any American to be pro-immigration.

Pergram: Another area where you differed was on the Middle East. And just the other day, I guess you talked to some of the Republicans saying, could you sit in on the meeting when they had a virtual meeting with (Israeli Prime Minister) Benjamin Netanyahu? Who did you approach on that? What did they say?

Fetterman: I was very disappointed that our caucus didn't have the opportunity to do that. I really wanted to hear from Netanyahu. In fact, I even asked the Republicans, you know, back channels, like, Hey, can I just sit there? And I don't even have to (ask) any questions. And I've always been incredibly surprised why we're not talking about where this was because of Hamas and the things that they've done. And that why there isnt a protest kind of a surge to demand that Hamas surrender on this. If you really want to end all of the misery and the death and the destruction  if they would just surrender, it would end tomorrow. Release everybody (the hostages). Send them home. And thats been very frustrating. And then we're talking about now there's 31,000 Palestinians that were were killed. And what you're not talking about (is) 13,000 or more are actually Hamas fighters on that. So why aren't you breaking that out as well too? And then if you do and talk about the casualty ratio, its actually very clear that this isnt a genocide or that the Israelis are targeting civilians. In fact, the only ones that target civilians? Thats Hamas.

Pergram: Heres a name and I want you to respond: Bob Menendez.

Fetterman: At this point, it's almost moot. His trial is in less than two months from now and that's going to address that. I can't imagine how with the kinds of evidence. I also remind everybody to remember that this is his second trip to the prom. You know, he barely just got out from that. And now hes been credibly accused of being a foreign agent for three nations. In fact, two of them are critical and negotiation partners in the Gaza situation with Hamas. And how is this individual allowed to attend classified briefings on that? Its astonishing. And its been frustrating where someones more concerned that I could wear a hoodie (in the Senate). Thats why this seems to be more urgent. Making sure that the Senate reputation isnt damaged.

Pergram: Why do you think that members have kind of not called for him to be expelled or gone as far as you? Youve been the most outspoken person when it comes to Menendez.

Fetterman: I don't know. But what I can say is that (former Rep. George) Santos, R-N.Y., was expelled and Republicans did the right thing on that. That actually cost them a seat. So I thought that was a principled stand.

Pergram: When you came into the Senate, you had the health issues on the campaign trail. Then you were hospitalized for a while. Talk about the challenges that posed as you were trying to represent the people of Pennsylvania, take on this new job understanding the folkways of the Senate. That's a lot.

Fetterman: Those health issues (were) weaponized and it was categorized as something that really (wasnt) actually true. We're having a very normal conversation. I'm using captioning right now to fully participate on that. No different than you have glasses. I'm able to process that fully.

Pergram: Show our viewers how this (captioning system) works. That (device) translates what I'm saying. And then you see what you're saying as well.

Sen. John Fetterman in his office on June 22, 2023, in Washington, D.C.

Fetterman: Exactly. And this allows me  just the way perhaps you wear your glasses  to read and to fully process things. I want to make sure that I can be precise when you ask. I have the captioning. And thats just a tool. That allows me to fully participate in interviews or conversations with my children or with my colleagues anywhere.

GOING, GOING, GONE: COULD THE REPUBLICANS' SLIM HOUSE MAJORITY SLIP AWAY BEFORE NOVEMBER?

Pergram: Give us a sense of how you're feeling now compared to last February, last January, when you came in. All the stress of joining the Senate. Being hospitalized. And then how you feel now a year later.

Fetterman: I feel great. I feel very fortunate, every day, to be a part of this. I wanted to make sure that depression and mental health (are) part of a conversion. And thats a red county, a blue county situation. I know that regardless of where you are politically or anyone watching this right now (whos suffering from depression), its not you. You probably have someone that you love or know or work with that has an issue, whether its depression or anything like that. And I would encourage (you) to please consider getting help. And its an important conversation that we have to have. We have in this nation now, over 50,000 Americans (who) have chosen tragically to take their lives. Thats an epidemic. And thats the highest level ever. This is a conversation that maybe (is) not a political winner. But thats one we should have. And Im proud to be part of that and leading that.

Pergram: Sen. Fetterman, thank you for your time. Thank you for joining us.

Fetterman: It's always a pleasure to speak with you. Thank you





Original article source: Fetterman charts a different path, breaks with fellow Democrats in the Senate
Pretty much everything you need to know about the defamation lawsuit Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer filed against failed Republican governor candidate Kari Lake can be found in how eager they were to get to trial.

Richer was very eager.

Lake? Not. So. Much. In fact, not at all.

On Tuesday, Lake said she would forfeit her right to defend against Richers suit, no doubt terrified of what would come out during discovery. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Richer responded, Kari: You lied ... It was all B.S.

One of his attorneys, Ben Berwick, added, It is extraordinary to see a defendant in civil litigation concede like this.

Richer isn't targeting Lake's free speech

Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer

Earlier, one of Lakes attorneys said that Lake was not going to allow Richer to impede her free speech.

But it wasnt her free speech Richer was going after. It was the unproven claims of misconduct and election tampering made against Richer in order to grift gullible MAGA suckers, without seeming to care, at all, about the potential harm she was doing to Richers reputation.

Not to mention the potential physical harm that could have resulted from inflaming the emotions of those same gullible dupes.

As Richer put it in an op-ed for The Arizona Republic: Not only would I obviously never do the things that she accuses me of, but also as a matter of Arizona law and election administration processes, I dont even have responsibility for  or jurisdiction over  the printing of ballots on Election Day.

Lake has continued to repeat these falsehoods, despite multiple court rulings that found her attacks to be unfounded.

Dupes are in prison, but what of the instigators?

He added, (Lakes) words have provoked death threats from Lakes followers. Ive been forced to increase my personal and professional security while still watching over my shoulder.

And for good reason.

A number of those gullible dupes made life-threatening threats against Richer and others. And a number of them are now doing time in prison, having been prosecuted for their crimes.

The instigators of those actions need not worry (unfortunately) about such harsh consequences.

Still, an eventual monetary judgement in a defamation lawsuit is no small thing.

And Richer is inching closer to draining a very swampy Lake.

Reach Montini at ed.montini@arizonarepublic.com.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Kari Lake concedes defeat in defamation lawsuit. That's unusual
Financially strapped operator of Mass. hospitals strikes potential deal with insurance company

Steward Health Care may have found a way to fix its financial problems.

The Massachusetts hospital operator has struck a deal to sell its physician network to insurance company Optum. But the potential deal wont be enough to save one local facility.

New England Sinai Hospital is set to close its doors for good next Tuesday  that isnt changing with this potential new deal.

While the proposal between Steward Health Care and Optum is in the works, it still needs all kinds of approval.

Steward operates nine healthcare facilities across Massachusetts.

Boston 25 News has been reporting for months now how the company says it doesnt have the money to keep them open, even after receiving $675 million in COVID-19 relief money. Steward also announced it found some bridge financing last month, but didnt reveal too many details.

This proposed sale of a doctors group called Stewardship Health to Optum could now help shore up its finances. A commission will have 30 days to assess and review the transaction.

The proposed deal will be closely scrutinized here in Massachusetts, where some political leaders, including Gov. Maura Healey, have accused Steward of prioritizing shareholders over public health.

Sen. Ed Markey released a statement saying in part, Optum must demonstrate that it can meet the even greater responsibility to preserve and protect health care access in the commonwealth, and I hope they will live up to that responsibility by controlling costs and putting patients and providers first.

Markey added he is holding a congressional hearing in Boston next week. He invited Stewards CEO to testify.

Hospitals and the healthcare system are not like any other part of our economy, Markey said. These are not widget makers. Healthcare is at the center of the well-being of every family in the Commonwealth and across the country.

Next week, Markey  along with Sen. Elizabeth Warren  will hold a hearing looking into how Steward, once looked at as a savior of the nine Massachusetts hospitals it took over some 15 years ago, wound up unable to save itself. That hearing will take place on April 3, one day after the closure of Stewards New England Sinai Hospital in Stoughton.

You know, Steward did this when they first came into being... and we didnt ask enough questions, said Ellen MacInnis, a nurse at St. Elizabeths Hospital  owned by Steward  and a member of the Massachusetts Nurses Association. So lesson learned... we need to ask a lot more questions now.

Markey said before Steward is allowed to sell off its assets, guardrails need to be in place to ensure patients are put before profits.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 27. President of Russian Crocus Group Araz Agalarov and his son Executive Vice President Emin Agalarov have sent 100 million rubles ($1.08 million) to help victims of the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall on March 22, Trend reports.

Crocus Group and the Muslim Magomayev Foundation will support the victims of the terrorist attack. The Agalarovs donated the initial donations in the indicated sum.

The monies will be utilized to provide targeted help to the families of spectators and employees affected by the tragedy, including rehabilitation, recovery, treatment, and other human needs.

To clarify, the incident occurred when unidentified men began firing at Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, near Moscow, resulting in evacuations, according to Russian operative agencies. Eyewitnesses said that guys dressed in camouflage fired machine guns inside Crocus City Hall shortly before the Picnic group's scheduled show.

On March 26, Russian Emergency Situations Ministry employees completed clearing the rubble after the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall. According to the latest data, the death toll in the terrorist attack has grown to 140.

The accused individuals involved in the terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall have been placed in detention as a form of restraint. They will remain in custody for one month and 28 days, until May 22, 2024.

According to the court's decision, the individuals accused of carrying out a terrorist act - Dalerdzhon Mirzoev, Saidakrami Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni, and Muhammadsobir Fayzov - were placed in pre-trial detention.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Finley Boden died on Christmas Day 2020 after suffering 71 bruises and 57 fractures at the hands of his parents

A 10-month-old baby killed by his drug-addled parents was failed by care agencies who were hampered by Covid lockdown restrictions, a damning report has found.

Finley Boden died on Christmas Day 2020 after suffering 71 bruises and 57 fractures at the hands of his parents, just 39 days after a Family Court decided they could take care of him, despite the concerns of social workers.

Shannon Marsden and Stephen Boden were both sentenced in May last year to life imprisonment for their babys murder, with respective minimum terms of 27 and 29 years, after a judge told them they had subjected him to unimaginable cruelty and deliberately left him to die.

The couple had used the winter 2020 Covid lockdown as an excuse not to let family members and social workers see Finley to check on his welfare.

Steve Atkinson, the independent chairman for Derby and Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Partnership, said that while responsibility for Finleys death lay with his parents, he was let down by those who should have kept him safe.

At a press conference in South Normanton, he said: As the report says, he should have been one of the most protected children in the local authority area. More could and should have been done to help keep Finley safe.

Mr Atkinson said there had been very significant mitigating factors  such as Covid lockdowns, restricted access and the parents own dishonesty  but that these are not excuses for care service failings.

Social care staff now also receive specific training on spotting and dealing with cannabis and other drug abuse by parents.

The report found that the unfamiliar working environment of Covid restrictions, with in-person meetings replaced by online meetings and phone calls, distorted court roles and eliminated room for discussion about Finley in court.

A Child Safeguarding Practice Review by the Safeguarding Children Partnership, published on Wednesday, found: A child died as the result of abuse when he should have been one of the most protected children in the local authority area.

Shannon Marsden and Stephen Boden were both sentenced to life imprisonment - Derbyshire Police/PA

The report, which uses the name Theo to refer to Finley, found that social workers and care staff were severely hampered in being able to check on his welfare by the lockdown and shielding arrangements in place during the pandemic.

It stated: The situation was complicated by the personal circumstances of the childrens guardian who was shielding. This meant that, even as restrictions reduced, the childrens guardian was unable to return to in-person meetings.

At what was a crucial point in planning ...the myriad protective systems and services designed to detect, prevent and respond to maltreatment were severely disrupted. As a consequence, as face-to-face contact with families reduced or ceased, professionals dependence on parents self-reporting correspondingly increased.

Court hearings held remotely

It also found that several court hearings to determine Finleys fate were hampered by being held remotely.

The report stated: Such an unfamiliar working environment had the capacity to distort participants customary roles and routines in what had previously been a highly predictable setting.

This was challenging both for professionals who were sometimes in attendance through computer technology and for parents who were relying on their mobile phones to stay in touch with proceedings.

The usual potential for discussion and negotiation within the court building was also eliminated.

At their trial Derby Crown Court heard that Marsden, 22, and Boden, 30, had told a series of persistent lies to win Finley back after he was taken into care by social services over concerns about their cannabis use.

Despite them lying to social workers about the amount of marijuana they were using, magistrates ruled in November 2020 that Finley should be returned to the couple without the need for them to undergo drug tests.

The Family Court ruling was only revealed following a legal challenge by The Telegraph, the BBC and the Press Association.

Mrs Susan Burns JP and Mrs Kathy Gallimore JP rejected a plea from social workers that Boden and Marsden undergo a four-month supervised transition to establish if they were truly capable of looking after their baby.

Instead they ordered a two-month transition, which they said was a reasonable and proportionate length of time to protect his welfare.

Finleys legal guardian from the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass) agreed, arguing that four months was too long and would cause confusion for Finley, and that he required a shorter time frame to help him settle.

But the report found that the legal guardians relative inexperience and the remote nature of the Family Court proceedings may have hampered her judgment.

It said: In conversation, the childrens guardian reflected on the factors which might have contributed to her forming a different interpretation of the same judgment. These included her inexperience at that point as a childrens guardian and difficulties in managing the remote nature of the proceedings.

Child protection plan

Within weeks of Finley being returned to them, Marsden and Boden inflicted a horrendous catalogue of injuries on him, including two burn marks  one thought to be from a cigarette lighter.

Finley had been made the subject of a child protection plan by Derbyshire social services a month before he was born, because of his parents heavy use of cannabis.

Two days after his birth in February 2020, social services warned in a threshold report that Marsden and Boden were unable to meet Finleys basic care needs, leaving him at risk of physical and emotional harm.

As a result of continued concerns over their drug use, he was taken from them and sent to live with two carers.

While he was living with his carers, Finley thrived and was described as fit and well, safe and happy.

But after he was returned by the Family Court to his parents squalid home in Old Whittington, near Chesterfield, the couple conspired to keep social workers and health professionals from seeing him, using Covid social distancing measures as an excuse.

Thousands spent on cannabis

The subsequent five-week murder trial heard that following his return, Marsden and Boden continued to spend much of their time smoking large amounts of cannabis, buying 3.5g of the drug every two days at an estimated annual cost of 5,460 to 7,300.

Photographs were shown to the jury of filthy household items found by police inside their home, including a vomit and faeces-stained cot mattress cover and Mickey Mouse baby grow. A feeding bottle was found with mould growing inside it.

Photographs were shown to the jury of the condition inside the couple's home

Images showed filthy household items inside the home - UNPIXS

During the short period before his murder, Marsden and Boden did everything they could to undermine the agreed supervised transition plan.

When a child protection worker rang two days before his death to say she had to see Finley face-to-face, Marsden told her that the baby was not well and dismissed her attempts to see him via WhatsApp, claiming she could not download the app.

At one stage, Marsden even turned a family member away when she dropped by to deliver Christmas presents, using the lockdown as pretext for not letting her into the house.

Relatives had expressed their anguish at the family courts decision to return Finley to Boden and Marsden.

A source close to the family told The Telegraph: They were on their knees begging the family court not to send him back to his mum and dad. They were desperate to keep him because they feared what might happen to him.

Social workers did not pay enough attention

The review stated that, while Finleys parents were responsible for his death, professional interventions should have protected him and that child safeguarding practice during the last few weeks of his life was inadequate.

According to the report, social workers were too quick to believe Marsden and Bodens promises to reduce their drug consumption and did not pay enough attention to their uncooperative behaviour.

The report also found that Marsden and Boden appeared to be able to hoodwink social workers and care professionals all too easily about their continued drug use and the impact it was having on Finley  especially as the pair were generally being seen remotely.

At one stage, Derbyshires substance misuse practitioner assigned to the case failed to report to his supervisors that Finley was being returned to his parents, which meant the threshold of concern was not triggered and there was no management oversight of what was happening.

The report concluded that practitioners demonstrated no understanding of the application of safeguarding training, or of the vulnerabilities of babies under the age of one.

Derby and Derbyshire Safeguarding Children Partnership said it will take the additional action necessary to further reduce the risk of a repeat of a similar incident.

Derbyshire county councils childrens services said it accepted there had been missed opportunities in the case of Finley.

Carol Cammiss, the councils executive director for childrens services, said: Despite the significant Covid restrictions placed on our work at the time, we know there were missed opportunities for stronger practice and we apologise for that.

We did not wait for the outcome of this review  we took immediate action to review and strengthen our systems and continue to monitor the way we work with babies and families.

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PITTSTON TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  The Fire Pit, a new restaurant coming to Pittston Township, is scheduled to open its doors in early April.

According to Paul Fiske, the restaurant will seat around 16 people but they are anticipating a lot of takeout with the industrial parks being close by and with how welcoming the community has been already.

The community has been great, people have been stopping in to see the new place, grabbing menus and were super pumped to be serving the community and were looking forward to meeting everyone in the area, said Paul Fiske.

According to Paul, he and his wife Andria currently live in Swoyersville with their two children, but he grew up in Dallas, Luzerne County, and she was born in the Philly area, but has spent many years in NEPA working as a speech therapist, and they both felt it was the right time to make their move into becoming business owners.

Courtesy: Andria Fiske

Courtesy: Andria Fiske

Luzerne Foundation hosts first Avas Way event

We decided to pursue a new adventure and do it together, said Andria Fiske.

Paul Fiske, who has been cooking his whole life, and managed cooking operations at the J&J Deli in Dallas, says the restaurants menu will feature a little bit of everything, from hoagies and BBQ to wings and bites.

Regarding the name, Paul says that it harkens back to a simpler time, I grew up sitting around fire pits, and at home, we love to sit around our fire pit with our dog or our friends and we figured it would be the perfect name.

The Fire Pits owners, Paul and Andria Fiske, of Swoyersville, say the restaurant can be found in the old Duddys Deli building, located at 720 Suscon Road, in Pittston Township.

Once open, The Fire Pits hours will be as follows:

Monday-Friday: 10:00 a.m.  8:00 p.m.

Saturday: 11:00 a.m.  7:00 p.m.

Sunday: CLOSED

The Fire Pit officially opens its doors on Monday, April 8, at 10:00 a.m., to view the full menu and for more information visit their Facebook page.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
The relative of a victim embraces a person after the reading of the verdict for former police officers on trial for crimes against humanity during the 1976-1983 dictatorship, in La Plata, Argentina, Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The officers were convicted on Tuesday of torturing over 20 pregnant women and stealing at least 10 babies, seven of which have been identified and recovered. Hundreds of babies were abducted during the Argentine dictatorship. (AP Photo/Gustavo Garello)

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP)  Judges overseeing a high-profile human rights trial in Argentina convicted 11 former officials of crimes against humanity on Tuesday, in the first case to focus on the former military dictatorship's overlooked practice of committing sexual violence against transgender women.

The trial at the court in La Plata, a southern suburb of the capital, spanned nearly four years and added new details and insight to previously chronicled atrocities, deepening the nation's understanding of its traumatic history. Transgender plaintiffs took the witness stand for the first time in a series of chilling hearings that put a spotlight both on the suffering of the transgender community and on the widespread tactic of sexual violence under the right-wing dictatorship that ruled Argentina from 1976 to 1983.

Human rights groups estimate that 30,000 people suspected of opposing the military government were abducted, systematically tortured in clandestine detention centers and disappeared during the time.

In the highly anticipated verdict, 10 defendants were sentenced to life in prison and one to 25 years in prison for their roles in a scheme of violent repression that included killing, torture, sexual violence and the abduction of children born in captivity, among other alleged crimes that took place across four clandestine detention centers in the province of Buenos Aires. The judges acquitted one former official.

What is different about this trial is that for the first time in Argentina and in the world, crimes against humanity committed against trans women in the context of state terrorism are condemned, prosecutor Ana Oberlin told The Associated Press. It was a good verdict, we are more than satisfied.

The military dictatorship promoted traditional Catholic values and viewed LGBTQ Argentines as subversives in the heterosexual society. Even being openly gay could lead to jail.

Tuesday's trial involved 600 victims and testimonies from hundreds of witnesses that dredged up accounts of sexual abuse specifically targeting transgender women, as well as cases of soldiers stealing babies from their detained mothers before handing them over for adoption to members of the dictatorship and their loyalists. A former police doctor who oversaw the births of women in captivity was among those who received a life sentence.

Hundreds of men and women in Argentina have grown up with false identities, oblivious to their true origins as the children of the disappeared.

Eight of the plaintiffs recounted being raped and tortured in one of Argentina's largest clandestine detention centers known as the Banfield Pit.

The shouts of Genocidal, genocidal! erupted in the courtroom packed with survivors and victims' relatives. After the verdict was read out, they wept and embraced. Many held portraits of their disappeared loved ones and posters with the slogan: There are 30,000" and It was a genocide.

The verdict comes as far-right President Javier Milei and his vice president, Victoria Villarruel, have challenged the legal reckoning of human rights abuses committed during the dictatorship, an effort that was championed by their left-wing predecessors. Argentine human rights organizations have raised particular concern over Villarruel's family ties to the military and activism for victims of crimes committed by leftist guerrillas in the early 1970s. Victims of the dictatorship view that advocacy as implicitly justifying the state repression that followed.

Villarruel and Milei have publicly cast doubt on the toll of 30,000 disappeared, pointing to an independent commission that could identify only 8,960.

Most of the defendants in Tuesday's trial have already been convicted in other cases and transferred to house arrest because of their age and deteriorating health. They tuned into the hearing by video call. The court ordered the defendants under house arrest to undergo new medical exams to determine if they could go back to prison.

Since the Argentine government in 2004 repealed amnesty laws that protected former soldiers, the country's courts have handed down 321 sentences for crimes against humanity and convicted 1,176 people. The landmark effort to hold military leaders accountable for past abuses continues, with more than a dozen trials still underway in the country.

Activists hailed Tuesday's verdict as a long-overdue step forward for Argentina's transgender rights movement, which gained unprecedented momentum under the socially liberal former President Alberto Fernandez.

___

Associated Press writers Isabel DeBre and Victor Caivano in Buenos Aires, Argentina, contributed to this report
An Israeli woman who was held hostage by Hamas for 55 days says she was sexually assaulted by militants, becoming the first former hostage to publicly come forward with claims of sexual violence.

In an interview with The New York Times published Tuesday, Amit Soussana said she was forced to commit a sexual act at gunpoint by a Hamas militant who was holding her captive. She also said that while in captivity, she was held by herself, chained by her ankle in a bedroom, with a guard sometimes coming in, lifting her shirt and touching her.

Soussanas interview follows finding from a United Nations special group focused on sexual violence, which found clear and convincing information that Hamas committed rape and sexual torture during its deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7 last year.

Soussana told the Times that she decided to talk about her experience now to draw attention to the challenges faced by those who are still hostages in Gaza. Following Soussanas release from captivity in November, she talked to a senior Israeli gynecologist and a social worker about her assault, both of them told the Times.

Amit spoke immediately, fluently and in detail, not only about her sexual assault but also about the many other ordeals she experienced, said Julia Barda, the gynecologist, per the Times.

However, a spokesperson for Hamas denied Soussanas account in a response to the Times. For us, the human body, and especially that of the woman, is sacred, the spokesperson said in the response, according to the Times.

However, the U.N. special representative of the secretary-general on sexual violence in conflict, Pramila Patten, headed up a team that went to Israel and the West Bank earlier this year and found evidence that Hamas had carried out sex crimes against hostages.

Based on the information it gathered, the mission team found clear and convincing information that sexual violence, including rape, sexualized torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment has been committed against hostages and has reasonable grounds to believe that such violence may be ongoing against those still held in captivity, the U.N. special group said in a press release.

In a press conference, Patten said the groups findings backed up the need for a cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hamas, which Israel has said would require Hamas releasing the more than 100 remaining hostages.

In the context of the findings, regarding the hostages, I think more than ever a ceasefire should be a priority, Patten said. Thats what can protect the hostages still in captivity, a ceasefire.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
First lady Jill Biden will publish a new childrens book in June that follows the first familys pet cat, Willow, on her journey moving to Washington, D.C., as she explores the various rooms in the White House and meets the people that keep daily operations running smoothly.

The picture book, Willow the White House Cat, is co-written with author Alyssa Satin Capucilli and illustrated by artist Kate Berube. It will be published by Paula Wiseman Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Childrens Publishing.

As Willow bounds from room to room, exploring history in her new home, she learns quickly about all of the incredible people who make the Peoples House run, the first lady said in a Tuesday press release announcing the books forthcoming publication.

They welcomed Willow with love and care, just as they did Joe and me, the First Families who came before us, and all of the people who step foot into this home. Making many new friends along the way, Willows journey gives the world a cats-eye view of all the ins and outs of Americas most famous address, Biden continued.

The Bidens adopted Willow, an American tabby domestic short-haired cat, from a farmer, Rick Telesz, in Lawrence County, Pa., according to the publishers announcement. The first lady was widely reported to be the driving force behind the decision to adopt Willow, who was named for the first ladys hometown of Willow Grove, Pa.

Willow made quite an impression on Dr. Biden in 2020 when she jumped up on the stage and interrupted her remarks during a campaign stop, a spokesperson for the first lady said in 2022. Seeing their immediate bond, the owner of the farm knew that Willow belonged with Dr. Biden.

Biden is notably the only first lady to hold another job while serving as first lady. She teaches English as a community college professor, and she has written previous childrens books, including, Where the Light Enters, Dont Forget, God Bless Our Troops, and Joey: The Story of Joe Biden.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Launch of the Zircon missile from the Russian frigate Admiral Gorshkov

Hypersonic Zircon missiles Russia used to strike Kyiv on Feb. 7 and March 25 fell short of their intended combat objectives, Andriy Kulchytskyi, head of the military research laboratory at the Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise, told Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne on March 27.

Kulchytskyi reached these conclusions following the analysis of missile fragments.

"All the descriptives such as 'super,' 'hyper'  they're just words," he said.

"The missile has a long way to go before it's combat-ready."

The missile "veers off course and fails to fulfill its intended purpose," Kulchytskyi said.

Read also: Russian deployment of Zircon missiles suggests weapon shortage, says UA Air Force

The Ukrainian air defense systems are reportedly capable of intercepting Zircons. A fragment from the March 25 missile strike indicates it was intercepted by the Patriot system, he said.

The missile's warhead contains no more than 40 kilograms of explosives, Kulchytskyi said. Further analyses are underway to determine the exact composition.

"The warhead's payload is minimal compared to missiles like the Kh-101 and Kh-22," the expert said.

Russia strikes Kyiv with Zircon missiles - What is known

Russia attacked Kyiv with several hypersonic ballistic missiles launched from occupied Crimea on March 25. Due to the extreme velocity of the missiles, the air raid alert was sounded almost simultaneously with them reaching the Ukrainian capital. Although the missiles were intercepted by Ukrainian air defenses, falling debris injured ten people across the city.



The two missiles, shot down by Ukraines air defense over Kyiv on March 25, were likely ZM22 Zircon missiles, Defense Express reported, citing sources, and sharing a photo of missile debris.



This is the second known use of this missile after an unsuccessful attempt to attack Kyiv on Feb. 7, the journalists said.



The Air Force could not yet confirm as of March 26 that Zircon missiles were fired at Kyiv.

Read also: Putin confirms Russian army's use of Zircon missile in Ukraine strike

The Russians have stockpiled Zircon missiles in Crimea and will continue its targeted terror, especially against Kyiv, Southern Defense Forces spokesperson Natalia Humeniuk said, commenting on Russian tactics on March 26.

Russia's deployment of Zircon missiles could indicate a deficit in other missile varieties, the Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson, Ilya Yevlash, said on March 27.



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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Florida's Supreme Court. Sept. 8, 2023

Quality Journalism for Critical Times

With the Florida Supreme Court poised to rule any day now on whether the abortion-rights referendum can go on the November ballot, anti-abortion groups are arguing that the state Constitution already protects a right to life for embryos and fetuses.

Liberty Counsel and Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America picked up on a question that Chief Justice Carlos Muniz asked during oral arguments over the initiatives ballot summary on Feb. 7  does constitutional language protecting the rights of all natural persons extend to an unborn child at any stage of pregnancy?

Florida Chief Justice Carlos G. Muniz. Credit: Florida Supreme Court.

Susan B. Anthony submitted a lengthy analysis on March 11 arguing that the Constitution says just that. But theres no record in the case docket suggesting the court is considering that argument, which neither the initiatives sponsors nor the state addressed in legal briefs or oral arguments.

The court faces a Monday deadline for deciding whether the proposed Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion can go before the voters. The justices have to determine whether the ballot summary, as the Constitution requires, describes the chief purpose of the amendment or revision in clear and unambiguous language and addresses a single subject. It would appear on the ballot as Amendment 4.

The court faces the same deadline for deciding on ballot language for another proposed constitutional amendment to allow adult use of cannabis.

The justices typically release opinions at 11 a.m. on Thursdays, but nothing requires them to issue the abortion or weed rulings at that time. But Monday is a hard deadline, imposed to give election officials time to prepare ballots. Holy Week  one of the Christian churchs most important observances  concludes Sunday with Easter.

Were also waiting for a ruling in a test of Floridas 15-week abortion ban, passed in 2022. The court is considering overturning its 1989 precedent finding that the Constitutions privacy clause protects access to the procedure. If the court does that, a six-week ban passed in 2023 would also become law. The justices heard oral arguments in that case in September but has no deadline for issuing a decision.

Beyond the scope

Notably, Attorney General Ashley Moody, a Republican who argued against allowing both initiatives on the ballot, offered to file a post-argument brief in the abortion case but the court did not take her up on it. The states lawyers took no position when Muniz asked the question in court  although key members of the court seemed skeptical of the states arguments against submitting the measure to the voters.

Amendment sponsor Floridians Protecting Freedom dismissed the value of this issue.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody. Credit: Office of Attorney General

It would be unprecedented for the court to block an amendment from the ballot for not predicting a position on a legal theory that no court in Florida has ever taken. Neither the attorney general, nor opponents, raised this issue during briefing, as it is beyond the scope of the courts review, policy counsel Michelle Morton said in an email to the Phoenix.

The question Muniz raised involves two provisions in the Florida Constitution. The first is headed Basic Rights:

All natural persons, female and male alike, are equal before the law and have inalienable rights, among which are the right to enjoy and defend life and liberty, to pursue happiness, to be rewarded for industry, and to acquire, possess and protect property. No person shall be deprived of any right because of race, religion, national origin, or physical disability.

The second is Due Process:

No person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law, or be twice put in jeopardy for the same offense, or be compelled in any criminal matter to be a witness against oneself.

Submissions

Liberty Counsel and Florida Voters against Extremism have filed post-argument documents addressing the issue. One cites criminal statutes penalizing the killing of an unborn child through an injury to the mother and laws allowing for appointment of a guardian for an unborn child under some circumstances. Another points to the Alabama Supreme Courts recent ruling that embryos preserved cryogenically for in vitro fertilization are the same as a living person.

David Thompson. Credit: Cooper & Kirk

The Susan B. Anthony submission points to an analysis by David Thompson, managing partner in the influential Washington, D.C., boutique law firm of Cooper & Kirk, who traces the history of ideas about what constitutes a person dating to Sir William Blackstones Commentaries on the Laws of England, published in the mid-Eighteenth Century, through the 1968 revisions to the Florida Constitution.

Life is the immediate gift of God, a right inherent by nature in every individual; and it begins in contemplation of law as soon as an infant is able to stir in the mothers womb, Blackstone wrote at the time.

Thompson goes into considerable detail about revisions to the Florida Constitution before and following the Civil War, including the transition from discussions of the rights of men to those of persons to natural persons.

Natural persons refers to human beings, as opposed to entities like corporations that the law also treats as persons but not necessarily with all the rights accorded to humans.

That reference to the ability to stir in the womb was important, Thompson writes  that, called quickening, for generations had been taken as the beginning of life.

Rise of abortion restrictions

However, By the early-Nineteenth Century, the country was beginning to question whether the common law was adequately protecting preborn persons, particularly with respect to the quickening standard, Thompson writes.

That standard  that an abortionist could be charged with a crime only if fetal movement was detectable  had arisen not as a statement about when personhood begins  but rather as a prudential rule of evidence in light of the difficulty of proving, prior to quickening, that the woman was pregnant, that the fetus was alive when the abortion was committed, and that the abortion caused his or her death.

The advancement of medicine, including increasingly sophisticated microscopes, changed things, Thompson continues. By 1867, Ohio had passed an anti-abortion law on the theory that the foetus in utero is alive from the very moment of conception, he writes. Florida criminalized abortion the following year, he adds, and continued to legislate regarding the personhood of embryos and fetuses through adoption of the 1968 Constitution  implying its framers would have viewed them as natural persons and persons under the two constitutional provisions.

Of course, this conclusion means that the initiative petition cannot survive the Florida Supreme Courts review. For it would be clearly invalid under Florida law because it fails to identify substantially affected provisions of the Constitution, Susan B. Anthonys attorneys wrote.

More than that, though, any attempt to create a constitutional right to abortion would violate the single-subject rule by attempting to revoke multiple fundamental rights guaranteed by different sections of the Constitution. A long line of Florida Supreme Court precedent holds that such cataclysmic change may not be accomplished by initiative petition, they add.

Thompson doesnt address how the Florida Constitution could have protected abortion even beyond the scope of Roe v. Wade between 1989 and now.

The post FL Supreme Courts ruling on abortion-rights referendum imminent, but late argument arises appeared first on Florida Phoenix.
(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.)  On Wednesday morning, March 27, Colorado Highway 115 was closed in both directions for a short period of time due to Flight for Life being called to the area, according to Sgt. Marc Miller of the El Paso County Sheriffs Office (EPSO).

Colorado Department of Transportations (CDOT) website showed the closure was at Roca Roja Circle, located two miles south of Rock Creek Park, south of Fort Carson. The closure was for both directions of Highway 115 at Mile Point 36.

Sgt. Miller told FOX21, that deputies originally responded to a call that someone had apparently jumped from a balcony and was injured. Deputies arrived just after 7 a.m. and Flight for Life responded, which closed Highway 115 for about 40 minutes.

According to CDOTs website, Highway 115 was reopened just before 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday.

If youre experiencing a mental health crisis, the easiest way to ask for help is to dial 988.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
The Skegness Gateway development has been approved for land west of the town

The government may be asked to block a large expansion of Skegness.

Planning permission was granted last week for the Skegness Gateway development which includes 1,000 new homes.

However, the Environment Agency told the BBC is it "still considering" whether to ask for permission to be revoked after it objected to the plans because of a risk of flooding.

A spokesperson for Skegness Gateway told the BBC "there is no risk of flooding".

The development would be on 336 acres (135 hectares) of land to the west of Skegness.

As well as housing, the plans include a school, shops, industrial space, tourism facilities, a technical college and a crematorium.

The Environment Agency had urged East Lindsey District Council to remove housing from the scheme, saying the site had the potential for widespread flooding with depths of up to three metres.

It said evacuating the site in the event of a breach of coastal flood defences would place a major burden on emergency services and the road network.

"We do not consider this to be a minor matter," it said in a letter to the council dated 10 January 2024.

It said the council "should be certain" the site could be evacuated, adding: "We do not consider that the evidence available demonstrates this is the case."

The agency could ask the government to revoke planning permission and told the BBC it is "still considering" its next step.

Landowner Neil Sanderson told the BBC "there is no risk of flooding"

Skegness has a higher than average proportion of people over the age of 65 and has traditionally relied on tourism as its major industry.

Neil Sanderson, one of the landowners and a spokesperson for the Gateway project, said it "will deliver employment benefits of 287 million".

"The same with a lot of coastal communities we have that deprivation, health issues, lack of jobs and homes," he said.

On the risk of flooding, he said: "We've worked really closely with the Envrionment Agency from the outset to come up with a scheme that proves that flood risk mitigation, so there is no risk of flooding."

Councillor Tom Ashton said the land would be raised

In 2022, Minister of State for Housing Michael Gove blocked attempts by East Lindsey District Council to allow caravan owners to occupy them all year round, because of a risk of flooding.

Planning portfolio holder, Councillor Tom Ashton, said the new housing in the Gateway scheme would be on "raised housing level".

Regarding evacuating the site, he said: "We are talking about an event where this development is sitting on its island and the rest of Skegness is under several feet of water."

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Florida has this week passed a law to ban children under 14 from using social media. Its unclear whether the ban will work as tech bosses seek to challenge the legislation in court. But what is clear is that here in Britain we too must act to rescue our children from a phenomenon that is robbing them of their childhood.

On Tuesday, renowned US psychologist Jonathan Haidt published The Anxious Generation. In the book Haidt charts how the Western experience of growing up has been transformed over the last forty years from an outdoor, real-world, play-based childhood to a phone-based childhood in which kids now live their lives indoors and online through tiny screens.

This radical change offers no obvious benefits to children. Under any conceivable measure, adolescent wellbeing has plummeted over the last fifteen years since social media and smartphones became ubiquitous. In the UK, teen suicides have doubled for boys and trebled for girls. Hospital admissions for self-harm have rocketed. Anxiety and depression are crippling a generation of young people, as evidenced by the record number signed off work. There is compelling evidence that the rise of smartphones and social media do not just coincide with the collapse in child mental health; they are its cause.

Any young person who has spent time on Instagram or TikTok is aware of the sorts of harmful content to which they can be exposed on these platforms. Videos promoting eating disorders, violent hardcore pornography and dangerous misinformation proliferate. But its not just disturbing content that is harming our children; these apps are designed to consume their attention and keep them addicted using algorithms that hack into the brains dopamine reward system.

A phone-based childhood affects boys and girls differently, but both are missing out on the physical experiences and relationships that young bodies and brains need to develop skills such as social confidence and conflict-resolution that are vital for adult life. Superficially, social media and gaming meet childrens need for social interaction, but in reality these platforms leave them isolated and anxious.

Several times while reading The Anxious Generation I had to put the book down, overwhelmed with sadness for what our children have lost. Many parents share a growing sense of anger that super-rich and internationally powerful Big Tech has been given a free pass to push an unsafe and addictive product on our children. At a recent speech in the House of Lords, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy told parliamentarians that if social media was a pharmaceutical drug, it would be withdrawn for safety reasons.

Thats why Florida is right to act, and why the UK must follow suit. If we dont protect children from smartphones and social media, the future for them  and for the whole of society  is bleak. The age at which children are using these products is getting lower and lower, and one in five toddlers now owns their own smartphone. Teachers report huge increases in developmental and behavioural problems.

Some still resist legislative action on this issue, claiming that better parenting is all thats required. But we dont take that approach to other addictive and harmful substances such as tobacco and drugs. Even children whose parents do resist the pressure to give them smartphones now suffer a cohort impact. Isolated from friends and with no one to play with, even a phone-free child cannot escape the devastating effects of a phone-based childhood.

In the UK we must act without delay. We should amend the Online Safety Act to raise the minimum age for social media accounts to 16 and impose far stricter penalties on tech companies that knowingly allow underage users. We must restrict the sale and use of smartphones for children  it cannot be beyond the wit of tech manufacturers to create a child-safe phone. Childhood is precious and irreplaceable; we must stop at nothing to protect it.

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 world-famous British supermodel and actress of African-Jamaican and Chinese-Jamaican descent Naomi Campbell appeared on the covers of the Greek version of Vogue magazine in frank monochrome images with translucent details. The 53-year-old woman's photo shoot was timed to coincide with the anniversary of the glossy's existence.

ADVERTISIMENT

The photos of Naomi Campbell, taken by the legendary Nick Knight, appeared on two covers of Vogue Greece at once. The magazine announced this on its Instagram.

In one of the photos, the model poses in a translucent monochrome dress with voluminous white flounces resembling arcs and a fluffy tulle hem. Campbell added black suede heels with a pointed toe to the look, and a huge black hat covered her face. In particular, the photo itself was supposed to create the impression of being present during the photo shoot - the camera and the photographer himself were in the frame, shooting the British woman's reflection in the mirror.

ADVERTISIMENT

In another black and white photo, the model poses in a velvet bodysuit with a long train. Her legs are left bare but darkened by tights. The accent of her look is the voluminous straps with white lining.

"Vogue Greece celebrates its 5th anniversary with a collectible backstage issue featuring Naomi Campbell, the iconic supermodel photographed for two covers by the legendary Nick Knight," the magazine captioned the published photos.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
A Florida man was arrested in New Jersey last week in the fatal shooting of a woman and death of her baby, who was trapped in a hot car with her mothers body, authorities said.

Doujon Griffiths, 23, had been wanted since September 2021 in the deaths of 20-year-old Massania Malcolm and her 1-year-old daughter, Jordania Reid. Griffiths is also facing attempted murder charges in the shooting of Jordane Reid, identified by investigators as Malcolms boyfriend and Jordanias father.

The bodies of Massania Malcolm and Jordania Reid, her 1-year-old daughter, were found in September 2021 in a car in Orlando. Orange County Sheriff's Office

The shootings took place outside Malcolms Orlando apartment building on Sept. 7, 2021, Orange County Sheriffs Office detectives said in arrest warrants obtained by HuffPost.

Jordane Reid was hospitalized and has since recovered. Malcolm and Jordanias bodies were discovered on Sept. 9 in Reids car, Sheriff John Mina said in a Sept. 10 news conference.

Its disgusting, Mina said at the time. Its truly an evil person, and whoever did that will have to pay for those crimes.

Griffiths had been living with Malcolm and Reid, a longtime friend, at her Orlando apartment in the month leading up to the shootings, sheriffs detectives said in arrest warrants issued in September. Malcolm was upset that Griffiths wasnt contributing to rent or other household expenses during his stay, Reid later told investigators, and on Sept. 7 said she wanted him to leave. Reid agreed to drive Griffiths to a Greyhound bus station and buy him a ticket. Malcolm joined them, sitting in the front passenger seat with the couples baby in her lap.

Griffiths was sitting in the rear passenger seat, Reid said, and shot at him before he started backing out of the parking lot, according to the warrants. When the father jumped out of the car and tried to run away, Griffiths got out and continued to fire a pistol at him, Reid said. Investigators later determined that Griffiths fled in the car with the others still inside.

Investigators believe that Griffiths shot and killed Malcolm inside the vehicle, drove to a different parking lot and walked away, leaving her body and the baby there.

A medical examiner determined that Malcolm had died from a gunshot wound to the face, neck and hand, and ruled her death a homicide. Jordania had no noticeable injuries and is believed to have died from heat exhaustion.

After the shootings, a neighbor heard Reid requesting help and called 911. Orange County sheriffs deputies said that Reid, who was lying behind a bush with multiple gunshot wounds, attempted to tell them what had happened but couldnt speak. On Sept. 9, Reid, who had undergone surgery and was intubated, managed to write Griffiths name and nodded when asked if Malcolm had also been shot.

After confirming that Malcolm was not at her apartment, investigators were able to locate Reids car, a Volkswagen Jetta belonging to his mother, using GPS technology. Inside the car, which was parked in a lot about 1 mile away from Malcolms apartment complex, investigators found her body in the passenger seat and the babys body on the drivers side floorboard.

The cars air conditioning was in the off position when the vehicle was found, investigators said.

[Griffiths] left Jordania Reid inside the closed vehicle without assistance, without any air conditioning or food, knowing that the baby had no way to escape, a sheriffs detective wrote in an arrest affidavit.

Police officers in Linden, New Jersey, arrested Griffiths on the outstanding murder warrants after a traffic stop last week, the Orange County Sheriffs Office announced on social media, adding that he would be extradited to Orange County.

The sheriffs office currently does not have a time frame for when extradition will take place, a spokesperson told HuffPost. The State Attorneys Office serving Orange County confirmed to HuffPost that an extradition request was sent but has not yet filed charges against Griffiths while he remains in custody in New Jersey. HuffPost reached out to the Linden Police Department but did not immediately receive a response.

It was unclear whether Griffiths had retained an attorney.

Related...
Pinellas County GOP Sen. Nick DiCeglie (left) speaks at the Barrier Islands Govt. Council in Madeira Beach on March 27, 2024 (photo credit: Mitch Perry)

Quality Journalism for Critical Times

Pinellas County Republican Sen. Nick DiCeglie gave a brief presentation about a controversial vacation rental bill when he went before a group of mayors, vice mayors and other elected officials in the Tampa Bay area on Wednesday.

He was immediately challenged by Redington Beach Mayor David Will, who said the legislation removes the ability of residents in his city to have any discussion about how to regulate short-term vacation rentals.

The actual voice of the residents to go to their townhall, and have a discussion  pros, cons, whatever  to shape their community, to force that direction, has been removed, he said. So to me, whatever their position is, having that discussion is incredibly important.

But DiCeglie pushed back immediately.

Im not really sure I understand where this bill, Senate bill 280, removes anybodys voice, DiCeglie said. So Im not sure that I fully understand how this bill or any other preemption takes away the voice of the people to elect their local representatives, their ability to go to City Hall, express their views, or participate in our democratic process.

The discussion comes at a time when Gov. Ron DeSantis has to make a decision on a short-term vacation rental bill that will give state government more control over the regulation of rentals such as Airbnb and Vrbo. The bill has yet to be sent to DeSantis for his consideration. Once it gets there, hell have 15 days to sign it or veto it or allow it to become law without his signature.

Among the provisions in the legislation, local governments can now impose occupancy limits, but they must be uniformly applied without regard to whether the residential property is used as a vacation rental.

Will said that means that local governments wont have the ability to distinguish between a single-family house and a vacation rental.

DiCeglie disagreed, noting how the bill requires the Division of Business and Professional Regulations (DBPR) to assign a unique identifier for each individual vacation rental dwelling or unit which can be coordinated with local governments if they create their own local registration system.

Indian Rocks Beach Mayor Cookie Kennedy told DiCeglie that she was disappointed that he hadnt attended any local community meetings on the issue. As your mayor, I invited you multiple times, she said. My feeling were very hurt.

Kennedy recently sent a letter to DeSantis urging him to veto the legislation. Among her criticisms is that the occupancy limits are unenforceable and that it imposes a requirement of five or more violations by a vacation rental owner during a 60-day period before any suspensions can be imposed by a local goverment.

But not all of the mayors were critical of the bill.

Treasure Island Mayor Tyler Payne said that he appreciates that the legislation does not cap the amount that local governments can charge to register new short-term vacation rentals in their communities. The bills says that those governments must charge what they consider to be a reasonable fee.

I can do the math with my city staff to calculate how much revenue I need to have for a registration program, Payne said, so we can pay for additional code enforcement officers, and I can pay for the additional software that we need to have to track these vacation rentals and enforce our rules that are in place.

The post Some Florida mayors are getting testy about a contentious vacation rental bill appeared first on Florida Phoenix.
Channel 9 continues to follow developments after a major bridge collapse in Baltimore.

New drone video shows an up-close look at the damage after a container ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge, knocking most of it down.

Officials have suspended the search for six people who are unaccounted for.

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (AP Photo/Steve Ruark)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (AP Photo/Steve Ruark)

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sit on the water after it collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The collapsed steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and a section of the roadway still upright (L) sit on the water after the bridge collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sit on the water after it collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

Baltimore Fire Department Chief James Wallace, with Police Commissioner Richard Worley (R) and Mayor Brandon Scott (2nd R), speaks at a press conference on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed early March 26 after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

A section of the roadway still stands after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after it was struck by a container ship, in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

A US Coast Guard helicopter flies over the Dali container vessel after it struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

TOPSHOT - The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

TOPSHOT - The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is shown early morning, Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from Riviera Beach, Md. A container ship rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap in a few places and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers were initially searching for at least seven people. (AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren)

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is shown early morning, Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from Riviera Beach, Md. A container ship rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap in a few places and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers were initially searching for at least seven people. (AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren)

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is shown early morning, Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from Riviera Beach, Md. A container ship rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap in a few places and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers were initially searching for at least seven people. (AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren)

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is now offering the state of Maryland his support.

DeSantis is directing the Florida Division of Emergency Management to offer assistance to the state of Maryland, if needed, following the collapse.

Read: What we know about the Baltimore bridge collapse

The state of Florida stands willing to help, and our prayers are with the victims and first responders, DeSantis said.

Channel 9 spoke with local officials who said they dont believe any of the six people reported missing, believed to be construction workers, will not be found alive.

Read: Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse: Here are major US bridge collapses caused by vessels

This is due to the length of time they have been missing and the cold-water conditions at the bridge collapse scene.

Maryland officials said a container ship lost power and crashed into the bridge around 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday.

Watch: More than willing: Florida Port Council CEO offers help after Baltimore bridge collapse

ABC News obtained records showing the ship was inspected in June, and issues were found with propulsion and auxiliary machinery concerning gauges and thermometers.

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.
ORLANDO, Fla.  U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost on Tuesday called for extending protected status for Haitians fleeing the violence in their country and slammed Gov. Ron DeSantis for suggesting he might call a special session to arrest and detain Haitian refugees who come to Florida.

Imagine the Haitian people in our community waking up every morning to see the devastation in Haiti, said Frost, D-Orlando, at a press conference at his Orlando office. And (then they) turn on the TV and see their bigoted governor use his power not to console the people, not to tell them hes going to do what he can to help the island and to help Haiti, but to demonize and dehumanize them. Its disgusting.

DeSantis has organized flights out of Haiti for Floridians and other Americans but also launched Operation Vigilant Sentry to prevent Haitians from landing boats on the states coast. He told Fox News Sean Hannity on Sunday he could seek a special session to increase the states powers to detain Haitian migrants as a disincentive to keep them out of Florida.

Florida has not seen a major influx of Haitian refugees this year.

At a roundtable discussion beforehand, Haitian Americans from Central Florida told Frost of their concerns and worries about Haiti and what the U.S. government can do to help their families. They also stressed Haitian distrust of the United States because of centuries of exploitation and invasion.

For me, Haiti is down the street, said Isaie Marc, a member of the hospitalities union UNITE-HERE. There are a lot of things that we can do to fix whats going on in Haiti. (But) Im trying to understand what the plan is right now.

Nattacha Wyllie said she spoke with a friend on the phone the night before, well into the morning.

They stay up just so they can secure their neighborhood from the gangs and from the people running, leaving their homes to come and sleep under tents or wherever they possibly can, Wyllie said.

Marie Jose Francois said she has had an application for her brother to immigrate from Haiti since 2020.

Please, if anybody can rescue my only brother for me, she said. I dont know what else Im going to do.

She added she was not ashamed to say that I am a Haitian and proud to be a Haitian.  They are talking about how we are the poorest (country). To me  its the richest country in the world because its my country.

Others called for the appointment of a special envoy to Haiti, with one suggesting former President Barack Obama, and transferring the embassy to outside the gang-ravaged capital.

More than 500,000 Haitians lived in Florida in 2022, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus survey, making up nearly half of all Haitians in the U.S. That includes more than 40,000 Haitians living in the Orlando area.

Any committee thats going to be making those decisions (needs) to bring in voices from the diaspora, said Kelly Clerveau of the immigration group IDiginity.

Frost said the U.S. must use every tool at our disposal to help restore stability, ensure aid and protect innocent patients while centering the Haitian people.

He said extending protections for Haitians in the U.S. was a matter of life or death for thousands of Haitians who rely on this designation for protection and stability.

We believe that this country has a duty to help fight innocent migrants fleeing instability and violence, Frost said. But unfortunately, we have leaders like Gov. Ron DeSantis, who would rather use inhumane policies and rhetoric to treat those seeking refuge without the dignity and compassion that they deserve.

Frost added that his office is planning a town hall in the coming weeks to connect Haitian Americans with important resources, stressing that the help will continue even when the crisis fades.

Obviously, things have unraveled and it seems quickly to a lot of folks, Frost said. But for the people here, theyve seen it unraveling for a long time. There (have) been mistakes made by Democrats and Republicans. So weve got to make sure that we dont let our government forget about Haiti.

Marc cited the economic importance of his community, saying most of the 19,000 workers in UNITE-HERE Local 737 were Haitian.

Without our people, Im talking about the Haitian people, there is no hospitality industry, Marc said. We run that. Without the Haitian sisters and brothers, we dont have hotels, we dont have restaurants.  Its time for us to step up with the Haitian people, to give them the respect that they deserve.

_____
FILE PHOTO: Philippine Coast Guard personnel prepare rubber fenders after Chinese Coast Guard vessels blocked their way to a resupply mission at the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China

MANILA (Reuters) - Foreign correspondents in Manila rejected on Wednesday a claim made by China that the Philippines had journalists manipulate videos taken during resupply missions in the South China Sea to make it look like a "victim".

The Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) "takes deep offence at the insinuation that the press is a 'troublemaker' and in cahoots with the government to forward a political agenda," it said in a statement.

The statement was in response to a post by China's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hua Chunying, on platform X on March 26.

Hua was referring to the Philippines' routine mission to deliver supplies for its troops stationed on a grounded warship on the Second Thomas Shoal, where Chinese coastguard vessels and Philippine ships have had frequent run-ins.

In the post, Hua said such missions always carried many journalists on board and "had them manipulate the videos they recorded to make sensational news and project the Philippines is a victim".

FOCAP said it "strongly rejects and condemns the false, baseless claims" of Hua and the Chinese Embassy in Manila, which reposted the comments on platform X.

The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and China's foreign ministry in Beijing did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Foreign and local journalists, including Reuters, have joined and covered the resupply missions in the disputed waters.

The FOCAP said the comments were an insult to the integrity of journalists, adding that "a free and independent press reports not what they are told, but what they observe".

A spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard, which escorts the civilian boats carrying out the resupply missions, said on platform X: "China seems to have overlooked the fact that in a democratic country like the Philippines, we highly value freedom of speech and freedom of the press."

(Reporting by Karen Lema; Editing by Alex Richardson)
BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD)  The former Baton Rouge Police officer who was accused of kidnapping and malfeasance in office was found not guilty of kidnapping on Tuesday, March 27.

Judge Eboni Johnson Rose found former BRPD officer Donald Steele Jr. not guilty of kidnapping but guilty of malfeasance in office, according to District Attorney Hillar Moore.

One of Steeles attorneys, Franz Borghardt, noted that Steele was convicted of a misdemeanor of malfeasance in office, which doesnt exist, according to Louisiana state law.

On Wednesday, March 27, Rose met with the state and defense counsel to clarify the verdict as legal authorities were requested to assist in the deliberation, Moore said. She requested that both counsels file a legal memorandum by April 5. A hearing date is set for April 18.

In 2021, Steele was accused of making sexual advances toward a 19-year-old woman during a traffic stop. According to an arrest warrant, Steele reportedly pulled over the victim, saying that she had been drinking and driving but would not get a ticket because she was cute. Steele allegedly took the victims phone and sent himself a photo. Steele reportedly advised the victim to follow him to an abandoned warehouse near Hollywood Casino.

Steele reportedly informed the victim that he could have sex with her better than anyone shes ever been with. He was accused of sexually assaulting the victim and began asking her personal questions, according to arrest documents.

In October 2022, Steele pleaded not guilty to the accused charges.

Louisiana insurance commissioner calls for reform as State Farm leaves California market

Moore requested clarification from the judge. He released a statement Tuesday about the verdict.

We respect the courts verdict as to the kidnapping charge, but respectfully disagree. We have asked to meet with the Court and defense counsel tomorrow morning to discuss the wording of the courts verdict as to the malfeasance charge. Due to our request, I do not think there should be further comment until after our meeting with the court. District Attorney Hillar Moore

Borghardt issued his own statement after the meeting with the judge on Wednesday.

This morning, Mr. Steeles defense team met with the Court and the State in chambers. Despite reports to the contrary, this meeting validated that Mr. Steele was acquitted of Second Degree Kidnapping and any type of sexual malfeasance. The Court has requested further briefing on several technical legal issues that have been raised between the parties. We look forward to returning to Court and confirming Mr. Steeles acquittal of the charged conduct. Both our firms maintain and have maintained Mr. Steeles innocence and embrace the opportunity to continue to fight for our client. Franz N. Borghardt

A sentencing for Steele is scheduled for April 30, 2024.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to BRProud.com.
Former Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Raymond Chan was found guilty Wednesday on all counts in a massive corruption case involving real estate developers and their influence at City Hall.

A federal jury in Los Angeles reached the verdict after deliberating for only a matter of hours, according to The Los Angeles Times, finding Chan guilty on 12 counts of racketeering, bribery, fraud and giving false statements.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 10.

During the two-week trial, prosecutors portrayed Chan as a central figure in a pay-to-play scheme that also involved former L.A. City Councilmember Jose Huizar, who pleaded guilty in 2023 to racketeering and tax evasion charges.

Raymond Chan

Both used their power and influence, prosecutors said, to push forward lucrative deals for foreign developers in exchange for favors and financial gain between 2013 and 2018.

In one instance, prosecutors said Chan helped set up a company that took on a downtown L.A. high-rise developer as a client while he was still employed by the city.

He pressured city officials to support the project and, after leaving city employment, received payment from the developer for his efforts, the L.A. Times reported.

Jose Huizar

Chans lawyers said they plan to appeal the verdict.

Chans trial was delayed for nearly a year after his lawyer fell ill last April, forcing the judge to declare a mistrial.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
A jury on Wednesday found former L.A. Deputy Mayor Raymond Chan guilty of racketeering conspiracy, bribery, honest services fraud and giving false statements to investigators. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

A jury delivered a swift and decisive judgment in a federal corruption case targeting former Los Angeles Deputy Mayor Raymond Chan, finding Wednesday that Chan secured bribes for himself and for former Councilmember Jose Huizar as part of a sprawling pay-to-play scheme.

Within a few hours, the jury found Chan guilty on 12 of 12 counts  racketeering conspiracy, bribery, honest services fraud and giving false statements to investigators  in a case focused on financial benefits provided by real estate developers with projects in Huizar's district.

U.S. Atty. Martin Estrada said Chan, 67, used his leadership role at City Hall to "favor corrupt individuals and companies willing to play dirty to win approval of downtown high-rises. Residents of Los Angeles, Estrada said, deserved "much better."

"With todays verdict, we send a strong message that the public will not stand for corruption and that pay-to-play politics has no place in our community, he said in a statement.

Chan worked for the city for more than three decades, much of it at the Department of Building and Safety, where he ascended to the top job. In 2016, he was hired by then-Mayor Eric Garcetti to serve as deputy mayor over economic development, supervising the Planning Department, Building and Safety, and other city agencies. He held that job for slightly more than a year.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 10.

Chan's attorney, John Hanusz, said his client will be filing an appeal. Throughout the trial, he argued that Chan was not part of the criminal enterprise led by Huizar, who was recently sentenced to 13 years in prison on racketeering and tax evasion charges.

Huizar admitted last year that he received a wide array of bribes and other benefits from downtown developers, including gambling chips at casinos, flights on private jets, campaign contributions, luxury hotel stays, concert tickets and services from prostitutes.

"This case was, and always has been, about Jose Huizar," Hanusz said.

During the two-week trial, prosecutors portrayed Chan as a crucial intermediary between Huizar, who wielded huge power over downtown development projects, and Chinese real estate developers.

In one particular scheme, prosecutors said, Chan helped Huizar secretly settle a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by a former aide. Billionaire Wei Huang, owner of the Chinese development company Shen Zhen New World I, provided Huizar with $600,000 in collateral that allowed Huizar to secure a bank loan and pay off the aide, they said.

Shen Zhen, owner of the L.A. Grand Hotel in downtown Los Angeles, later proposed a 77-story skyscraper that drew support from Huizar. The settlement money arrived at a crucial moment for the Eastside council member, who was running for reelection and facing a potentially formidable challenge from veteran former L.A. County Supervisor Gloria Molina.

That settlement payment, FBI Special Agent Andrew Civetti testified earlier this week, "was at the heart of this investigation."

At that time, Huizar feared the sexual harassment case would end his career, prosecution witnesses said. The source of the settlement money, kept secret during Huizar's 2015 victorious reelection campaign, did not become public until five years later, after the first set of charges were filed in the Huizar investigation.

Wednesday's guilty verdict also encompassed Chan's dealings with another Chinese developer who sought to redevelop the Luxe Hotel, across from the L.A. Live entertainment complex. Prosecutors said Chan, while working for the city, helped set up a company that took the developer, Shenzhen Hazens, on as a client.

While working as deputy mayor, prosecutors said, Chan worked to line up support for the Luxe project. Former Planning Commission President David Ambroz testified last week that Chan pressured him to support the Luxe project during a one-on-one meeting away from City Hall  and sounded more like a "hired gun" for the project than a deputy mayor.

After leaving city employment, Chan received payment from the developer for his work moving the project through the city approval process, prosecutors said.

"He set himself up for a big payday ... once he left the city," said Asst. U.S. Atty. Cassie Palmer during closing arguments Tuesday.

The jury also found Chan guilty of helping secure a bribe from Shenzhen Hazens  a commitment of a $100,000 campaign contribution to support a bid for City Council by Huizar's wife, Richelle Huizar. She later dropped out of the race.

Prosecutors said the push to elect Huizar's wife was designed to help participants in the criminal enterprise, including Chan and Huizar, retain their power over downtown development.

Lawyers for Chan repeatedly sought to undermine the government's case, saying that key prosecution witnesses had lied to FBI agents during the investigation and should not be deemed credible. Those witnesses later pleaded guilty and are hoping for leniency at their sentencings, the defense team said.

Yet another prosecution witness, businessman Andy Wang, has never been arrested or charged, even though he provided cash in envelopes to former Councilmember Mitchell Englander inside casino bathrooms, the defense team said.

Englander was sentenced in 2021 to 14 months in prison for lying to federal authorities about his dealings with Wang, who provided him $15,000 in secret payments, as well as an expensive night in Las Vegas.

Chan, while working closely with developers, was motivated not by greed but by a desire to make L.A. more business-friendly, Hanusz said. While Huizar and his associates accepted flights to Las Vegas, gambling chips, lavish hotel accommodations and escort services, Chan received none of those things, he said.

There was no quid pro quo in this case with Ray Chan, Hanusz told the jury. With Jose Huizar, there absolutely was.

Chan is the last defendant charged in the City Hall pay-to-play investigation  dubbed Casino Loyale by the federal government due to Huizar's frequent Las Vegas trips  to go on trial.

George Esparza, Huizars onetime aide, pleaded guilty in 2020 to racketeering conspiracy but has not yet been sentenced. He testified against Chan, as did real estate consultant George Chiang, who worked with Chan and also pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy.

Shen Zhen New World I, the company that proposed the 77-story tower, was convicted in 2022 of providing Huizar a vast array of bribes. A judge later fined the company $4 million. Its owner, Wei Huang, fled the country and is now a fugitive, according to the Department of Justice.

Wednesday's guilty verdict capped the second federal corruption trial targeting Chan. The first was derailed last year after Chan's lawyer, Harland Braun, was hospitalized and unable to return to work for months. A judge declared a mistrial.

The case against Chan covered the five-year period from 2013 to 2018, when Huizar was in charge of the councils Planning and Land Use Management Committee. In that position, Huizar had the power to decide when real estate projects received a public hearing and when they would be sent to the full council for a vote.

Prosecutors said Chan helped Huizar with his sexual harassment lawsuit around the same time that Huizar killed a proposed merger of the Department of City Planning and the Department of Building and Safety. That merger threatened Chans job as general manager at Building and Safety, they said.

Government lawyers portrayed those two events  the killing of the merger and the settlement of the harassment case  as linked. One kept Huizar in office, while the other kept Chan in charge of his agency, said Palmer, the assistant U.S. attorney.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The American actor Forry J. Smith, best known for the TV series Yellowstone with Kevin Costner, intiated a drunken fight on the plane, which resulted in his removal. The star didn't like the fact that the passenger in the next seat was wearing a mask, which is why he made a fuss.

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As you know, Forrie J. Smith is against vaccines. The incident on the plane was reported by The Star.

The source reports that the actor recorded a video in which he complained about being kicked off the plane and ended up at a Texas airport.

"I just got kicked off the plane, and where the hell am I? I've been sitting in the airport for three hours. Yes, I've been drinking, but I'm not drunk," Smith assured.

However, the actor seems to have downplayed his level of intoxication as he was unable to regain consciousness and understand where he was and what had happened to him for a long time.

It is not known where Smith was headed or what airline he used, but he blamed the public for not sharing his "anti-vaccine" sentiments.

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"They threw me off the plane because I was drunk. Because you people don't want to stand up and tell everyone what nonsense this is (wearing masks - ed.)," the actor said.

It's worth noting that in 2022, Smith refused to attend the Screen Actors Guild Awards with his colleagues because he needed to be vaccinated against Covid-19. The actor then defiantly boasted that he did not even vaccinate his dogs.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
HOUSTON - George W.S. Abbey, former director of NASA's Johnson Space Center, passed away on Sunday in Houston.

According to a release, Abbey was battling an illness.

George W.S. Abbey (Source: NASA Website)

The Seattle native had a long and storied career in human spaceflight that began with NASA in 1964 and continued beyond his retirement from the agency.

As director of flight operations, he oversaw selection of NASA's first space shuttle astronauts, mission operations, and the new shuttle program's approach and landing tests.

From 1987 to 1993, Abbey supported NASA Headquarters in Washington, serving in key roles in human spaceflight, and on the National Space Council.

He returned to Johnson Space Center in 1994, first as deputy director, then director, leading the development and launch of the space station.

FOX 26 Houston is now on the FOX LOCAL app available through Apple TV, Amazon FireTV, Roku, Google Android TV, and Vizio!

Abbey retired from the agency in 2003.

In December 2021, NASA named the Saturn V rocket display park outside Johnsons main gate for Abbey.

"A true visionary, Mr. Abbey demonstrated transformational leadership as Johnsons seventh center director. During his tenure, the space shuttle flew more than 25 successful missions; the joint U.S. and Russian Shuttle-Mir Program was completed, providing important information for long-duration spaceflight," said Vanessa Wyche, director of NASA Johnson. "He was instrumental in the Johnson teams involvement in developing and launching the first elements of the International Space Station, which marked the beginning of a new era in space exploration. On behalf of NASAs Johnson Space Center, we send our condolences to Mr. Abbeys loved ones during this difficult time."

Abbey was 91 years old.
The former Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel is on her way out of NBC less than a week after joining the network, NBC announced in a memo from the NBCUniversal News Group chair, Cesar Conde.

Related: Pretty bad: NBC condemned by top US historian over role for Ronna McDaniel

Conde said he had listened to the legitimate concerns of many network employees. No organization, particularly a newsroom, can succeed unless it is cohesive and aligned, he wrote. Over the last few days, it has become clear that this appointment undermines that goal.

Conde also apologized to employees who felt we let them down and said he took full responsibility for the hiring.

McDaniel has not commented on the memo. Her appointment as a political analyst for the network had been met with an extraordinary revolt by on-screen talent at NBC News and MSNBC, the left-leaning cable network.

In a letter to staff reported by the Wall Street Journal, Carrie Budoff Brown,

the networks senior vice-president for politics, said: It couldnt be a more important moment to have a voice like Ronnas on the team [to provide] an insiders perspective on national politics and on the future of the Republican party.

Appearing on NBCs flagship Meet the Press show on Sunday, McDaniel said Joe Biden had won the 2020 election fair and square.

But she also claimed it was fair to say there were problems [in elections in battleground states] in 2020 and said that while she did not think violence should be in our political discourse, she supported Donald Trumps election fraud lie, which ultimately stoked the deadly January 6 attack on Congress, as a way of taking one for the whole team .

That interview prompted an angry on-air response from Chuck Todd, a former host.

Todd pointed to attacks on the press mounted by McDaniel in her seven-year spell at the head of the RNC, which coincided with Trumps presidency and his surge to the Republican nomination this year.

Todd and other critics also highlighted McDaniels support for Trumps attempt to overturn the 2020 election, including direct involvement in her home state, Michigan, and her backing of Trump in this election cycle, even as his criminal and civil court cases proliferated and he stoked fears of authoritarian ambitions.

Despite such support, McDaniel was ejected from the RNC last month, to be replaced by Trumps daughter-in-law, Lara Trump.

A procession of senior NBC and MSNBC hosts followed Todd in protesting the McDaniel hire on air, from the popular husband-and-wife morning show team of Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski to Jen Psaki, Nicolle Wallace, Joy-Ann Reid, Lawrence ODonnell and Rachel Maddow.

Prominent rightwingers in media and politics cried foul, pointing to Psakis MSNBC role after being White House press secretary under Joe Biden as they alleged hypocrisy at the left-leaning network.

But NBC hired a Republican??!! the Texas senator Ted Cruz said. Its the end of the world.

Todd was among those to respond, saying such claims ignored McDaniels support for Trumps attempted election subversion.

This is about whether honest journalists are supposed to lend their credibility to someone who intentionally tried to ruin ours, Todd said.

On Monday night, Maddow, perhaps the biggest MSNBC primetime star, delivered a long monologue, saying in part: We are contending with something weve never had to contend with before  bad actors trying to use the rights and privileges of the democracy to end democracy.

The chief threat among them now is not the rioters and the kooks, but the slick political professionals who are turning their considerable talents to laundering violently revolutionary claims that Americas elections arent real.

Reid said: We welcome Republican people. I want [anti-Trump Republicans] Adam Kinzinger and Liz Cheney to come talk to me.

This isnt a difference of opinion. [McDaniel] literally backed an illegal scheme to steal an election in the state of Michigan. Its not about partisanship. We have to be pro-democracy and thats the goal here.

Citing recent cuts in light of McDaniels reported $300,000 deal, a union group representing rank-and-file NBC News staffers also demanded management action.
FILE - No Labels Founding Chairman and former Sen. Joe Lieberman speaks in Washington on Jan. 18, 2024. Lieberman, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died Wednesday, March 27, according to a statement issued by his family. He was 82. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP)  Former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died, according to a statement issued by his family.

Lieberman died in New York City on Wednesday due to complications from a fall, the statement said. He was 82.

The Democrat-turned-independent was never shy about veering from the party line.

Lieberman's independent streak and especially his needling of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential contest rankled many Democrats, the party he aligned with in the Senate. Yet his support for gay rights, civil rights, abortion rights and environmental causes at times won him the praise of many liberals over the years.

In an era of political carbon copies, Joe Lieberman was a singularity. One of one," said Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy, a Democrat. "He fought and won for what he believed was right and for the state he adored.

Over the last decade, Lieberman helped lead No Labels, a centrist third-party movement that has said it will offer as-yet-unnamed candidates for president and vice president this year. Some groups aligned with Democrats oppose the effort, fearing it will help presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump win the White House.

The group on Wednesday called Lieberman's unexpected death a profound loss, describing him as a singular figure in American political life who always put his country before party.

Lieberman came tantalizingly close to winning the vice presidency in the contentious 2000 presidential contest that was decided by a 537-vote margin victory for George W. Bush in Florida after a drawn-out recount, legal challenges and a Supreme Court decision. He was the first Jewish candidate on a major partys presidential ticket and would have been the first Jewish vice president.

Gore said in a statement Wednesday night that he was profoundly saddened by the death of his one-time running mate. He called Lieberman a truly gifted leader, whose affable personality and strong will made him a force to be reckoned with" and said his dedication to equality and fairness started at a young age, noting Lieberman traveled to the South to join the civil rights movement in the 1960s.

It was an honor to stand side-by-side with him on the campaign trail, Gore said.

Lieberman sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 but dropped out after a weak showing in the early primaries. Four years later, he was an independent who was nearly chosen to be McCains running mate. He and McCain were close pals who shared hawkish views on military and national security matters.

McCain was leaning strongly toward choosing Lieberman for the ticket as the 2008 GOP convention neared, but he chose Sarah Palin at the last minute after ferocious blowback from conservatives over Liebermans liberal record, according to Steve Schmidt, who managed McCains campaign.

Lieberman generated controversy in 1998 when he scolded President Bill Clinton, his friend of many years, for disgraceful behavior in an explosive speech on the Senate floor during the height of the scandal over his relationship with Monica Lewinsky. Yet Lieberman later voted against the impeachment of Clinton.

While he had a tortured relationship with Democrats, Lieberman defended his partisan switches as a matter of conscience, saying he always had the best interests of Connecticut voters at heart. Critics accused him of pursuing narrow self-interest and political expediency.

In announcing his retirement from the Senate in 2013, Lieberman acknowledged that he did not always fit comfortably into conventional political boxes and felt his first responsibility was to serve his constituents, state and country, not his political party.

During his final Senate speech, Lieberman urged Congress to look beyond party lines and partisan rancor to break Washington gridlock.

It requires reaching across the aisle and finding partners from the opposite party, said Lieberman. That is what is desperately needed in Washington now.

Nevada Sen. Harry Reid, who served as Senate Democratic leader, once said that while he didnt always agree with the independent-minded Lieberman, he respected him.

Regardless of our differences, I have never doubted Joe Liebermans principles or his patriotism, Reid said. And I respect his independent streak, as it stems from strong convictions.

Privately, some Democrats were often less charitable about Liebermans forays across party lines, which they saw as disloyal. He bolted his party and turned independent after a 2006 Senate primary loss in Connecticut.

Liebermans strong support of the Iraq War had hurt his statewide popularity. Democrats rejected Lieberman and handed the 2006 primary to a political newcomer and an antiwar candidate, Ned Lamont, who is now serving a second term as Connecticut governor. Citing his Senate experience, congressional clout and support for the state's defense industry, Lieberman went on to win reelection to a fourth term as an independent.

Many of his Democratic allies and longtime friends, including former Sen. Chris Dodd, had supported Lamont in that election. Lieberman was candid about what he considered a betrayal by old pals such as Dodd, but the two men later reconciled.

In a statement issued Wednesday expressing condolences, Lamont said he and Lieberman eventually became friends after their grueling and contentious race.

While the senator and I had our political differences, he was a man of integrity and conviction, so our debate about the Iraq War was serious, Lamont said in a statement. I believe we agreed to disagree from a position of principle."

When the race was over, we stayed in touch as friends in the best traditions of American democracy. He will be missed," he added.

After his rebound reelection in 2006, Lieberman decided to caucus with Democrats in the Senate, who let him head a committee in return because they needed his vote to help keep control of the closely divided chamber. But it wasnt long until Lieberman was showing his independent streak and ruffling his Democratic caucus colleagues.

He was an enthusiastic backer of McCain in the 2008 presidential contest, and his speech at the 2008 GOP presidential nominating convention criticizing Obama, the Democratic presidential nominee, struck a deep nerve.

Lieberman cast Obama as a political show horse, a lightweight with a thin record of accomplishment in the Senate despite his soaring eloquence as a speaker.

In the Senate, during the 3 1/2 years that Sen. Obama has been a member, he has not reached across party lines to ... accomplish anything significant, nor has he been willing to take on powerful interest groups in the Democratic Party to get something done, Lieberman said at the convention.

Eloquence is no substitute for a record, he said.

Lieberman campaigned heartily across the country for McCain. Many Democrats considered it a betrayal of Obama and his former party colleagues.

Joe Lieberman has said things that are totally irresponsible when it comes to Barack Obama, House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi of California said in a radio interview during the 2008 race. In a message posted Wednesday on X, Pelosi called Lieberman a leader of integrity and patriotism while acknowledging they often disagreed on politics.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said Lieberman's death was devastatingly sad and speculated that McCain, who died in 2018, was giving him an earful about how screwed up things are.

After the election, there was speculation Senate Democrats might strip Lieberman of his chairmanship of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as payback. Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., chair of the Judiciary Committee, was among those who said Lieberman should lose his chairmanship. Leahy branded Liebermans attacks on Obama as beyond the pale.

But at Obamas urging, Senate Democrats decided not to punish Lieberman for supporting McCain and the GOP ticket. Obama was eager to strike a bipartisan tone for his presidency and giving Lieberman a pass helped reinforce that message. On Wednesday, Obama acknowledged they didn't always see eye-to-eye, but noted Lieberman had an extraordinary career in public service.

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent and staunch liberal, called Lieberman's convention comments a slap in the face for millions of Americans who backed Obama.

Connecticut Democrats considered censuring Lieberman. Longtime friend Nick Balletto, former chairman of the state party, acknowledged many were unhappy with Lieberman and noted that the discontent overshadowed everything he had done for the state. Before the U.S. Senate, Lieberman served in the state Senate and as Connecticut Attorney General.

He was the most genuine, honest, straightforward politician youd probably ever meet. What you saw is what you got, said Balletto. His issues were the issues of the people. ... He didnt move because it was where the wind wanted to be today. He stayed strong in what he believed in his heart and his mind.

Lieberman was known in the Senate for his hawkish foreign policy views, his pro-defense bent and his strong support for environmental causes.

Five weeks after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, he became one of the first politicians to call for the ouster of Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein and later voted in favor of the military invasion of Iraq. His vocal support for the war would later help doom his candidacy in the 2006 Connecticut Democratic primary.

Lieberman tended to vote with Democrats on most issues and was a longtime supporter of abortion rights, a stance that would have proved problematic with conservatives had McCain chosen him as his running mate in 2008.

He played a key role in the legislation that created the Department of Homeland Security.

Lieberman grew up in Stamford, Connecticut, where his father ran a liquor store. Lieberman graduated from Yale University and Yale Law School in New Haven. As Connecticuts attorney general from 1983 to 1988, he was a strong consumer and environmental advocate. Lieberman vaulted into the Senate by defeating moderate Republican incumbent Lowell Weicker in 1988.

After leaving the Senate in 2013, Lieberman joined a New York City law firm. His funeral will be held Friday at Congregation Agudath Sholom in his hometown of Stamford. An additional memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, have four children.

___

Former Associated Press writer Andrew Miga contributed to this report.
Former Watergate prosecutor Nick Akerman said Wednesday that the gag order recently imposed on former President Trump in his New York hush money trial is so unusual.

I think what the viewers have to understand is, this is so unusual, Akerman told CNNs Fredricka Whitfield in an interview. This never happens, in over 50 years of law practice, both as a prosecutor, a defense lawyer.

Akerman emphasized the unprecedented nature of how Trumps case has unfolded, and that his attacks on Judge Juan Merchan could get the former president in harms way.

Not only is the gag order itself unusual, Akerman noted, but Trumps conduct in the courtroom that warranted the action from Merchan stood out to the attorney.

The reason its not done is because once you start disparaging the judge, disparaging people in the courtroom, youre putting yourself in harms way. Because thats the judge whos going to sentence you. Its the judge who could send you to jail or give you probation, Akerman said.

Merchan imposed a gag order on Trump on Tuesday, preventing the former president from making public statements about the court staff, witnesses and other figures in the case. Trump can still publicly deride Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D) and Merchan. It was the former presidents third gag order in less than six months, and came just weeks before his trial kicks off on April 15.

Akerman said Trump is a unique example of somebody who is testing the boundaries between protecting the defenses First Amendment rights and ensuring the safety of the judicial system.

So you dont do those sorts of things, Akerman said. Donald Trump is the only one I have ever seen do this and do it in such an outrageous way that has really forced the courts to deal with, Where does the First Amendment stop, and where do we need a gag order in order to protect the judicial system?

Trump slammed Merchan on Wednesday for imposing the gag order, calling it illegal, un-American, unConstitutional.

This Judge, by issuing a vicious Gag Order, is wrongfully attempting to deprive me of my First Amendment Right to speak out against the Weaponization of Law Enforcement, Trump wrote in a Truth Social post, including the fact that Crooked Joe Biden, Merrick Garland, and their Hacks and Thugs are tracking and following me all across the Country, obsessively trying to persecute me, while everyone knows I have done nothing wrong!

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  Fort Smith police warn the public of an attorney impersonation scam on March 26.

According to police, a victim was informed by a suspect that their family member was in an accident and had been arrested.

Sen. Boozman responds to Fort Smith Ebbing project receiving funding

Police say the suspect told the victim that the family member would be released for a certain amount of money.

The Fort Smith Police Department wants the public to know that attorneys will not engage in that type of conduct.

To report any such calls to Fort Smith police, call 479-709-5000.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
A Flixbus on the way from Berlin to Zurich careered off the motorway near Leipzig (Jens Schlueter)

Four people were killed and around 35 injured when a bus overturned on a German motorway near Leipzig on Wednesday, police said.

The bus came off the A9 motorway in the morning between Wiedemar and the Schkeuditzer Kreuz junction.

Police had earlier announced the death of five people in the accident, but revised the toll in the evening.

One person initially reported dead is in a critical condition, police said in a press statement Wednesday evening.

They said 29 passengers were slightly injured and six were in serious condition.

German operator Flixbus said the bus was en route from Berlin to Zurich with 52 passengers and two drivers.

"The exact circumstances of the accident are not yet known," Flixbus said in a statement.

"We are of course working closely with the local authorities and the emergency services on site and will do everything in our power to clarify the cause of the accident quickly and completely," it said.

The two drivers both survived, Flixbus added.

Photos showed the bus on its side, having apparently ploughed into trees on the side of the road.

Emergency services attended to the injured at the scene and the motorway was closed in both directions, German authorities said.

There were no indications that other vehicles were involved in the crash, according to the police.

German Transport Minister Volker Wissing said he was "shocked" by the accident.

"Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and, of course, with all those affected, and we wish the injured a speedy recovery," he told Welt TV.

Another Flixbus vehicle crashed on the same stretch of motorway in May 2019.

In that accident involving a bus travelling from Berlin to Munich, one person was killed and more than 60 injured, seven of them seriously.

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The creative team behind the Apple TV+ series Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock wants you to dance your cares away and leave worries for another day. The key is to let the music play when the second season launches March 29 on the streaming service.

There are 13 episodes in the new season of the Emmy Award-winning series that is a reboot of Jim Hensons classic that began in 1983. That production introduced the adventures of the Fraggles, a race of short creatures living in a maze of magical caves. They share the world with the industrious Doozers and giant beings known as Gorgs.

Having a second season allowed the creative team on Back to the Rock to look at what they did right and wrong in the initial season. Executive producer John Tartaglia stresses that the best thing that the team did was to continue the original spirit of the Fraggle Rock franchise as established by Henson more than four decades ago.

Tartaglia says, We stayed true to the spirit of the original series while bringing it into a very modern feel and modern style of comedy in a way that kids can really relate to in 2024.

I think that what we looked at that we wanted to do better was how can we explore the characters in a deeper way. How can we take them on further adventures? And how do we address an issue that is coming down the pike for kids in a way that feels really accessible. Thats where the climate change came this year in overarching themes for this year.

What the team has avoided from the start is being cynical with the comedy just to get a cheap laugh from a young viewer. The driving force for this new batch of episodes was to make it as hopeful a season as possible. Resilience and bonding together as friends are consistent themes.

Changes for the second season affecting the Fraggles, Doozers and Gorgs have them forced to confront their past and celebrate their interdependence as they move through challenges together with hope, silliness and brand new songs. Gobo, Red, Boober, Mokey, Wembley and Uncle Travelling Matt  alongside the new Fraggles and Doozers  go on epic adventures and explore the magic that happens when we celebrate our interconnected world.

This new incarnation is getting the same response as the original series. There is no question that the key demographic is young viewers, but the show has attracted fans of all ages.

Executive producer Halle Stanford explains that what the team has discovered is that there are three things that connect families  nostalgia, comedy and music.

They get comedy that reaches a broader audience by having writers and producers  such as Matt Fusfeld  who have worked in areas other than programming for children. Those are genres from TV situation comedies to animated films.

She adds that the musical part of the show is one of the biggest bonds for families.

We are very proud of how season one  and now season two  has really pushed the music, Stanford says. Those three ingredients are the secret to bringing families together.

The abundant use of music combined with the broad audience appeal is one reason the guest talent has included Daveed Diggs, Ariana DeBose and the K-pop group aespa.

Attracting guest voice actors has been no problem as Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock as it is considered a cool show on which to work. This years guest list includes Brett Goldstein and Catherine OHara.

Fusfeld points out that just because someone wants to provide a voice on the show doesnt automatically get them a spot in the booth. There is so much faith in the talents of the regular voice talents that it takes a very special situation to go outside the Rock walls to bring in a new voice.

When we decide we are going to go to the outside and bring them in, It has to be someone who sort of embodies something about the story and has a very Fraggley spirit, Fusfeld says. Then through the help of Apple and Fraggle Rock itself, we have our pick of who we want to bring into the family.

Getting picked to join the family is a big deal. Not only does the performer provide the voice but has input into how the character will look, act and be dressed. That gives the voice talent more of an investment in the production than just reading the lines.

Tartaglia knows that experience first-hand as he is not only a writer and producer but also provides the voice for Gobo and Sprocket. Joining him as voice talent regulars are Karen Prell, Donna Kimball, Jordan Lockhart, Dave Goelz and Lilli Cooper.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
France plans to deliver 78 Caesar self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine and will increase ammunition supplies to meet the needs of the Ukrainian military, French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu said on March 26, according to AP.

According to Lecornu, France aims to transfer 80,000 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine this year.

Read also: Up to 1.5 million shells available to Ukraine through the Czech program  report

He noted that the existing defense cooperation agreement between France, Ukraine, and Denmark regarding the funding for Caesar howitzers would allow Paris to deliver them quickly.

Read also: Pyongyang shipped more than 10,000 containers of munitions to Russia  US State Department

The minister added that France is involved in the Czech-led program to procure hundreds of thousands of artillery munitions for Ukraine from non-EU countries.

Read also: NVs source in official circles explains why the French president postponed his visit to Kyiv once again

On February 16, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a 10-year security cooperation agreement.

On March 12, the French parliament overwhelmingly supported the security deal.

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
FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WKRN)  After investigating multiple bank jugging cases over the last few months, Franklin authorities are urging community members to be cautious when withdrawing money from a bank or ATM.

According to officials, suspects will watch ATMs and banks, follow someone who withdrew cash to their next destination, and then either rob the victim or burglarize their car.

JUNE 2023 | Bank jugging: Metro police warn about new crime trend

In one recent case, the Franklin Police Department said $4,000 was stolen from a vehicle after someone visited a bank and left their cash inside the car.

Authorities said vigilance is key to not becoming a victim of bank jugging and shared the following safety tips:

When at the bank or ATM, be aware of your surroundings and look for any suspicious activity.

If youre driving and believe youre being followed, either call 911 or find a nearby law enforcement agency or officer.

When your vehicle is parked, do not leave valuables inside.

Make sure your vehicle is locked and the windows are up.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

If you want to watch the Franklin Police Departments full Public Service Announcement about bank jugging, click here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
People hold sings from the United Action for Youth reading "We love our trans youth" during a Trans Day of Visibility event, Saturday, April 1, 2023, in Iowa City, Iowa.

Several local organizations are collaborating this week to celebrate the transgender community through a range of activities, culminating in a Trans Day of Visibility rally on Sunday, March 31.

Mandi Remington, the founder and director of Corridor Community Action Network, says the collaborative week involves partnerships between local organizations and members and allies of the transgender community. They are celebrating transgender individuals while also raising awareness of the challenges and discrimination the community faces.

"Trans Day of Visibility was created to celebrate trans lives as opposed to honoring trans deaths," Remington said, marking the difference between Trans Day of Visibility and Transgender Day of Remembrance, which is celebrated annually in November.

Transgender Day of Visibility (March 31) was first observed in 2009 and was founded by Rachel Crandall, a transgender activist from Michigan. The annual celebration has become an internationally recognized day of advocacy, celebration, and solidarity.

Remington emphasized the importance of promoting transgender acceptance and awareness in Johnson County, which is why the community has scheduled various events from Thursday through Sunday.

"We need our community members to show up in solidarity with our trans community and to learn about what is happening in the legislature and how we can build the necessary supports here in the corridor to make sure that we are doing everything we can to mitigate all of the harm that is coming down from Des Moines," Remington said.

Remington, who has two kids who identify as trans, was inspired to expand the celebrations beyond a single day in an attempt to show the local trans community that they are "loved and supported."

"Last year, when I started realizing that nothing was in the works, one of the first thoughts that I had was, 'there is no way I can let my kids see this and have nothing happen with everything else that they've been seeing and hearing lately,'" Remington said. "Having the moment to celebrate and come together as a community and know that they're loved and supported is important for any community that's experiencing the kind of attacks that trans people are experiencing at this point in time."

The Iowa City City Council and the Johnson County Board of Supervisors proclaimed their support for Transgender Day of Visibility in 2023. The City Council and the Johnson County Board of Supervisors released separate proclamations recognizing the contributions of Iowa City's transgender community. Both government entities expressed contempt for recent anti-transgender legislation across the nation and in Iowa.

More: Five things to do in Iowa City this Easter weekend, from free music to comedy and dance parties

A person carries a sign reading "Queer kids deserve to grow old and happy too!" during a Trans Day of Visibility event, Saturday, April 1, 2023, in Iowa City, Iowa.

Bringing the community together

Major highlights include a rally and celebration from 2-3:30 p.m. on Sunday at College Green Park.

Corridor Community Action Network chose to no longer hold events on the University of Iowa campus because of the trans individuals that were charged by university police. Seven non-binary and transgender individuals were arrested late last year after protesting a lecture in the Iowa Memorial Union.

The rally and celebration are meant to be a joyous event anchored by multiple speakers, including Tara McGovern  who was recently acquitted of two charges following the aforementioned protest  Remington, trans youth, representatives from LGBTQ Iowa Archives & Library, and a live performance by The Quire.

There will also be booths from organizations such as Corridor Community Action Network, Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund, EqualMeds, Iowa City Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), United Action for Youth, and Rape Victim Advocacy Program (RVAP).

More: Hills Elementary will close at the end of the school year, the Iowa City CSD board ruled Tuesday night.

Members of The Quire perform during a Trans Day of Visibility event, Saturday, April 1, 2023, in Iowa City, Iowa.

Public Space One hosting several Saturday events

Public Space One is also hosting an entire day of activities on Saturday, March 30. The day will start with a zine and rally sign-making workshop from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. That will be followed by a community potluck from 12:30-2 p.m., where guests are asked to bring a food item and donations are also welcome. The day will finish with broad games hosted with Diversions Games & Cafe.

"Saturday's community event at Public Space One is a good opportunity for anybody," Remington said. "The celebration and rally atmosphere doesn't work for everybody, it is an alternative for people with sensory sensitivities or [mobility] difficulties."

The rest of the week will feature events intended to educate, celebrate, and advocate for the trans community, cumulating to the celebration and rally on Sunday.

Free Gender-Affirming Haircuts

Mop Salon is offering free gender-affirming haircuts to transgender and nonbinary community members on Thursday, March 28. Appointments are available on the salon's website.

A logo on the front door of the James Theater is seen, Tuesday, May 31, 2022, in Iowa City, Iowa.

Trans Gander Variety Show and Fundraiser 18+

Burlesque, live music, and an art auction supporting local trans mutual aid initiatives will be featured at 8 p.m., Friday, March 29 at The James Theater. James Theater is located at 213 N Gilbert St., Iowa City

Public Space One, or PS1, is located at 538 S Gilbert St.

Zine & Sign Making Workshop:

Make zines, rally signs, and art at hands-on craft time on Saturday, March 30 at PS1 Close House from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Public Space One is located at 538 S Gilbert St., Iowa City

Community Potluck:

Share a meal and connect at the community potluck on March 30 at PS1 Close House from 12:30 to 2 p.m.

Gaymers Gathering:

Gaymers Gathering, a board game pop-up with Diversions Games & Cafe, will follow the community potluck on Saturday, March 30.

The Iowa City Public Library is located at 123 S Linn St., Iowa City

Conversation & Education:

Iowa City Public Library will host various Transgender Day of Visibility events on Sunday, including legislative updates and letter writing. The educational activities will help residents understand legislation while exploring ways to strengthen the community. The library events will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m.

College Green Park is located at 600 E College St., Iowa City.

Rally & Celebration:

The week's highlight will be the rally from 2-3:30 p.m. Sunday, March 31 at College Green Park.

FilmScene at the Chauncey Building located at 404 E College St.

Tomboy Screening & Talk-Back at Filmscene

A 4 p.m. screening of the film 'Tomboy' will be shown at FilmScene's Chauncey location after the rally A talk-back will also be held. Some of the event's proceeds will be donated to the Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund.

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

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Iowa City celebrates Trans Day of Visibility with variety of local events
Two drunken vandals were detained in Thailand. Surprisingly, they were tourists from the aggressor country. The 22-year-old and 23-year-old Russians left "secret messages" in paint on the streets of the popular Phuket resort. Another citizen of the terrorist state distinguished herself in Bali, where she managed to live "for free" for more than a year, for which she was eventually shamefully deported.

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The first case was reported by the local edition of The Thaiger. It is reported that the vandals from Russia were detained on Monday, March 25.

The Russians left a mysterious inscription HRDSHT on the "No Parking" sign on the pedestrian path. They also spray-painted a restaurant sign near a bank branch in Patong district.

The tourists were accused of vandalism, and they immediately pleaded guilty, finding a lame excuse for their actions - "they were drunk." The guests from the terrorist country were taken to the local police station for further legal proceedings.

In Bali, Russians also managed to demonstrate their true colors. A 51-year-old tourist who refused to pay for food in restaurants and cafes and spa services in salons began to "glorify" her nation. For this, the woman was arrested and later deported, reports Social Expat.

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It is noted that the Russian woman has repeatedly created problems in the Indonesian district of Karangasem. On one of the last such occasions, on March 20, she broke into a local hotel and hysterically demanded that she be allowed to stay overnight for free.

Locals have repeatedly complained to law enforcement agencies about the "destructive behavior" of the tourist from Russia. The woman was interviewed, but they had no result. Suddenly, the inadequate and impudent Russian woman was noticed by the migration service. Its employees found out that she had been living in Bali since February 2023, and her visa had expired. The violation of visa rules gave grounds to say goodbye to the uninvited guest and send her back to Russia from the popular sunny resort.

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As OBOZ.UA previously reported, earlier in Thailand, a Russian tourist named Elena Kupriyanova attacked a pregnant owner of a family cafe. The woman, eight months pregnant, was kicked in the groin by a citizen of the aggressor country, and all because of a simple request to take off her shoes before entering the establishment.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
A Cape Coral resident has filed legal action against the city government after his removal from council chambers and subsequent ban from meetings, seeking relief for what he calls a constitutional injustice.

Scott Kempe is represented by Matt Miller-Novak, an Ohio attorney with Barron Peck Bennie & Schlemmer, and Derrick Eihausen, with the Eihausen Law Firm in Fort Myers.

"We think (the city is) in the wrong for ejecting him from the meeting, to begin with, for sitting backward in a silent expression that was politically protected," Miller-Novak said. "They truly jumped the shark when they decided to arrest them based upon an unconstitutional ban."

Kempe, removed from the council chamber on three occasions, and his lawyers filed the preliminary injunction on Tuesday, seeking temporary relief that preserves the status quo and stopping the city from enforcing its rules "banning members of the public from future open meetings based upon past conduct" until the courts decide on the case's merits.

According to the original complaint documents, filed on March 20, Kempe also seeks compensatory damages: to cover attorney fees, costs, and expenses, invalidation of official acts taken in violation of Florida law, declaratory judgment, and any other relief the court deems proper.

Miller-Novak could not comment on how much in damages Kempe is seeking.

Cape Coral Spokesperson Lauren Kurkimilis responded via email and said the city would not comment on matters of potential litigation.

The city did not respond to whether Kempe is allowed to attend regular city meetings.

Lawyer weighs in on removal Cape Coral man removed from meeting over Jaycee Park, now city faces 'legally shaky ground'

Original arrest Cape Coral resident removed from council chambers again, legal action planned against city

Cape Chamber removal explained

Scott Kempe is escorted out of the meeting chamber by police officers after being arrested during a city council meeting at Cape Coral City Hall in Cape Coral on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023. After being escorted out of a previous meeting, the council was slated to discuss whether he could return.

Over the recent months, residents have gathered inside council chambers to oppose the proposed improvements to the neighborhood park Jaycee Park, 4215 SE 20th Place, arguing that the plans will drastically change the character of the park.

Pennoni Associates, a consulting engineering firm, had been contracted for the preliminary and updated designs, which include two docks, 24 boat slips, a splash pad, two beach volleyball courts, a bistro/piazza area, areas for six food trucks, and a bandshell.

Improvements to the park are estimated to cost $12 million for construction, and the city plans to issue a long-term bond to pay for the project, which means city residents and future residents will bear the cost.

Kempe, who lives on the street that Jaycee Park ends on, was removed from the chambers after he turned his back to the council as a sign of protest during a discussion on the park in October.

Mayor John Gunter had halted the meeting and asked that Kempe sit facing forward; when he refused to do so, he was escorted out.

At the time, the city stated that he violated a rule allowing for his removal in that "who is boisterous or disruptive in any manner to the conduct of a meeting shall be asked to leave."

It also says that a person is barred from further attendance unless permitted by a vote of the council.

Officers then asked him to preemptively leave a meeting a week later as he waited outside for the council to vote and approve his return, which did not happen at that meeting.

He was then arrested and escorted from council chambers in December before the council was set to approve his return to the meeting as he argued against the city's interpretation of the rule of procedure.

Kempe has not been to a meeting since.

The State Attorney's office dropped the charges stemming from Kempe's arrest.

The council updated its rules in February to add more specific penalties for removed residents, language to distinguish between those arrested or simply escorted from council chambers, and increased penalties for repeat violators.

Additionally, an arrested individual will instantly be barred from meetings until a final disposition has concluded any criminal charges from the arrest.

They would then need to petition the council with a reason for why they should be permitted to attend meetings, and the council will vote on whether to let them return.

Legal arguments explained

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To be granted a preliminary injunction, the party making the motion must show it has a substantial likelihood of success on the merit, will suffer irreparable injury without the granted relief, that the threatened injury to the party outweighs whatever damage the injunction may cause the opposing party, and that the injunction serves the public injury.

In the motion documents, Kempe's lawyers argue that he will succeed because the city has established a policy that can ban speakers from attending future meetings based on past conduct.

The motion calls that action unconstitutional.

A meeting of a board, council, or commission is considered a limited public forum, where governments can have rules about certain kinds of speech or expression such as time, place, and manner that are unrelated to viewpoints.

"Such restrictions are permissible if "they are narrowly tailored to serve a significant governmental interest, and [they] leave open ample alternative channels for communication of the information," the motion states.

The lawyers cited Brown v. City of Jacksonville, where the city had barred a citizen from attending its council meetings for almost three months, as a similar case that was granted an injunction.

The lawyers argue that Kempe's loss of First Amendment freedoms, for the few months this has gone on, qualifies as an irreparable injury.

Scott Kempe is arrested by police officers before being escorted out of a city council meeting at Cape Coral City Hall in Cape Coral on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023. After being escorted out of a previous meeting, the council was slated to discuss whether he could return.

"Even after the prosecutor refused to maliciously prosecute Kempe, and dismissed the charges against him, Defendants still maintained they possessed the right to continue to ban Kempe because they disagreed with the prosecutors," the motion states. "These constant threats have a chilling effect not just on Kempe, but they also threaten the entire Cape Coral public."

Because the city's rules are not narrowly tailored, the motion argues that the ban on future meetings is not needed and won't harm the city.

It states that the city has numerous constitutional options to craft proper rules to maintain order in its meetings and remove people from a single meeting for disruption.

Lastly, they argue removing the ban from the city's rules will benefit the public.

"The public should not have its speech chilled under the fear that one mishap may result in an indefinite ban from future attendance at council meetings," the motion states.

Luis Zambrano is a Watchdog/Cape Coral reporter for The News-Press and the Naples Daily News. You can reach Luis at Lzambrano@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @Lz2official.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Cape Coral resident starts legal action, claiming free speech violated
A sculpture at Freedom Monument Sculpture Park in Montgomery, Alabama showing the faces of the enslaved. The park depicts the brutality of American slavery and the lives of those in it. (Equal Justice Initiative/Human Pictures)

The Equal Justice Initiative will soon open a third site in the Montgomery area memorializing victims of racial violence.

Freedom Monument Sculpture Park, a 17-acre site located on the banks of the Alabama River on the north side of Montgomery, focuses on American slavery. Bryan Stevenson, the executive director of EJI, said the site aims to convey the brutality and horror of American slavery, and the resilience and hope of those in it.

With any honesty about the lives of enslaved people, it is not just Alabama, it is all across this country, that we dont have a very extensive or developed record about the experience of being enslaved, about living through enslavement, and about the legacy of slavery, he said on Monday.

The park is scheduled to open to the public by the end of the month.

Montgomery was a major center of slavery and the domestic slave trade. In 1860, 23,710 people in the county  66% of the population  were enslaved. The city served as the first capital of the Confederacy. According to EJI, some 400,000 people were held in bondage along the Alabama River just prior to the Civil War. The nonprofit says that rail lines near the park were built by enslaved people in the 1850s, and were used in the buying and selling of human beings.

The Black community in the city maintained a long tradition of activism, leading to the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955 and the Selma-to-Montgomery march in 1965, both key events in the modern civil rights movement.

A wall with surnames inscribed in it. The National Monument to Freedom at the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park in Montgomery, Alabama. The park depicts the brutality of American slavery and the lives of those in it. The park includes 144,000 surnames of 4 million formerly enslaved people. (Equal Justice Initiative/Human Pictures)

Montgomery, for a long time, has defined itself as the Cradle of the Confederacy, the heart of Dixie, which means we are centered in a space that, in many ways, connects to the challenges that we are trying to address and educate people about, Stevenson said. But I also think Montgomery has an important role to play in leading the nation.

The opening of the park is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year, so much so that The New York Times featured Montgomery as one of the best places to visit in 2024.

Freedom Monument Sculpture Park serves to complement and build on the themes that are present at the other two EJI sites located within the city. The Legacy Museum looks at the history of slavery, segregation and mass incarceration and explores their impact on Black Americans and the nation as a whole.

The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which opened to national acclaim in 2018, honors victims of lynching in the United States. There are sculptures and features placed within the space that testify to the experiences of those who died and the impact it had for their loved ones.

I still felt there was a need to have something that you could experience the legacy of slavery around, Stevenson said. I have been around to the plantations that exist in this country, and to be honest, I dont think any really, honestly, present the story of slavery centered on the lives of enslaved people.

The park is laid out in a circular path that traces the history of the institution of slavery and begins with the transatlantic passage of people kidnapped from Africa to be sold into bondage.

Visitors are presented with information about their ultimate destination in the country, from the south to even as far north as counties in New Jersey.

Farther down the path, visitors encounter displays on how people were trafficked to Montgomery to be sold. There is a rail car on the grounds that people can walk into and experience how slaves traveled centuries ago. Replicas of slave cabins show how enslaved people lived and slept.

The site also includes a whipping post to give people a sense of the agony that people who were enslaved had to endure when they were punished.

A sculpture at Freedom Monument Sculpture Park in Montgomery, Alabama showing a hand around a tree. The park depicts the brutality of American slavery and the lives of those in it. (Equal Justice Initiative/Human Pictures)

Sculptures

The park features sculptures from different artists  many African American, African or indigenous  that focus on different aspects of slavery, from the brutality of bondage to the courage of the enslaved. The park is designed to mix art and history in depicting the struggles of those seeking freedom and justice.

Caring Hand, a sculpture of fingers growing from the ground around a tree, was done by Eva Oertli and Beat Huber. A second statue features two arms with one holding a club is called Strike by Hank Willis Thomas.

The park also includes bricks made by enslaved people 175 years ago that visitors will be able to touch, as well as chains used to traffic the enslaved.

A sculpture at Freedom Monument Sculpture Park in Montgomery, Alabama showing a hand grabbing an arm with a club. The park depicts the brutality of American slavery and the lives of those in it. (Equal Justice Initiative/Human Pictures)

The main attraction is a 50-foot-tall monument listing 122,000 surnames of the 4.7 million slaves living in the nation according to the 1870 Census, the first taken after slavery and the first that recorded the names of former slaves.

Visitors descended from enslaved people can use a website to trace where their ancestors lived. They can also stop by the visitor center to research the different locations where slaves lived and find the surnames of those who lived in those locations.

The most extraordinary thing, I think, about people who were enslaved in this country is they are people who learned to love in the midst of sorrow, Stevenson said. I would not be here if my enslaved fore parents had not found a way to love in the midst of sorrow, to create something hopeful, like a family, like a future, despite the brutality.

The National Monument to Freedom at the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park in Montgomery, Alabama. The park depicts the brutality of American slavery and the lives of those in it. (Equal Justice Initiative/Human Pictures)

Alabama Reflector is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Alabama Reflector maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Brian Lyman for questions: info@alabamareflector.com. Follow Alabama Reflector on Facebook and Twitter.

The post Freedom Monument Sculpture Park in Montgomery to honor victims of slavery appeared first on Arkansas Advocate.
Maurice Ravel school was the scene of an altercation between its head teacher and three students when he asked them to remove their hijabs - MAEL GARNIER/SHUTTERSTOCK

The head teacher of a Parisian school has resigned following death threats after it asked a pupil to remove their Muslim veil.

The incident prompted outrage from French politicians, with some declaring the defeat of the state in its push to ban religious dress.

The unnamed head of the Maurice Ravel high school and college in eastern Paris stepped down after receiving threats online following an altercation with a student, said officials.

In late February, he had asked three students to remove their hijabs on school premises, but one of them refused and an altercation ensued, according to prosecutors. He later received death threats online.

According to a school letter sent to teachers, pupils and parents on Tuesday, the principal stood down for security reasons, while education officials said he had taken early retirement.

A 26-year-old man has been arrested for making death threats against the head teacher on the internet. He is due to stand trial in April. He faces up to five years in prison if found guilty. Another suspect has been freed without charge.

Nicole Belloubet, the French education minister, and Laurent Nunez, the prefect of Police in Paris, speak to media at Maurice Ravel school - LAFARGUE RAPHAEL/SHUTTERSTOCK

In a government show of support, the principal was due to meet prime minister Gabriel Attal on Wednesday. Education minister Nicole Belloubet had visited the school in early March and deplored the unacceptable attacks.

France was traumatised at the 2020 slaying of Samuel Paty, a French teacher beheaded by a 19-year-old Chechen Islamist after a freedom of expression class discussing Charlie Hebdo cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed.

Last year, French teacher Dominique Bernard, 57, was stabbed to death at the school where he worked in Arras, northern France, in an attack that also wounded three others. The assailant was Mohammed Moguchkov, 20, born in Russias predominantly Muslim north Caucasus republic of Ingushetia and who arrived in France at the age of five.

In the wake of the Paris altercation, both the headmaster and the student filed legal complaints  the student for violence not resulting in incapacity to work, and the head for intimidation of a person involved in the performance of a public service mission to obtain an exemption from the rules governing this service.

However, the students complaint was dismissed on Wednesday, the Paris public prosecutors office confirmed.

Offering his support to the head teacher, Mr Attal announced that the government would be pressing charges against the student for slanderous denunciation.

Those who are on the front line in enforcing these rules and respecting secularism are our head teachers, our teachers, all the staff of the French education system, and I would like to pay tribute to them, he said in an interview on TF1.

I have always been committed to putting an end to what is known as the no-waves policy, which never accepts that the authority of national education staff should be flouted and which never accepts that secularism should be attacked.

Beyond Maurice Ravel, some 150 schools have received various types of threats via their email systems in the past week, according to the education ministry.

Politicians from across the spectrum expressed outrage and support for the head, who was enforcing a 2004 law banning schoolchildren from wearing signs or outfits by which students ostensibly show a religious affiliation such as headscarves, turbans or kippas on the basis of the countrys secular laws which are meant to guarantee neutrality in state institutions.

A collective failure

Its a disgrace, Bruno Retailleau, the head of the Right-wing Republicans faction in the Senate upper house, said on social media on Wednesday.

We cant accept it, Boris Vallaud, the head of the Socialist deputies in the National Assembly lower house, told television broadcaster France 2, calling the incident a collective failure.

Marion Marechal, the granddaughter of far-Right patriarch Jean-Marie Le Pen and a high-profile hard-Right politician herself, spoke on Sud Radio of a defeat of the state in the face of Islamist gangrene.

Maud Bregeon, an MP with President Emmanuel Macrons Renaissance party, also criticised threats from an Islamist movement.

Authority lies with school heads and teachers, and we have a duty to support this educational community, said Ms Bregeon.

Socialist Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo called the principal to assure him of her total support and solidarity, said her office, adding that she was appalled and dismayed.

Earlier this month, some 150 school heads gathered outside the Sorbonne University in Paris in support of the Maurice Ravel headmaster. For us, its abnormal to have to go to work with fear in our bellies. Its not normal for any profession, least of all ours, one female head teacher from a secondary school in eastern Paris told France Info.

Received threats

The events at Lycee Ravel were the trigger. But more broadly, its about providing support to all colleagues who, at one time or another, are under threat because the rules have to be applied, said Nicolas Bray, head of the SNPDEN-Unsa union.

Kamel Ait Bouali, his counterpart from the SGEN-CFDT Paris, added: Following this call for a rally, people started talking and other head teachers said that they had received threats.

Accounts of precisely what happened at the school vary widely.

According to the public prosecutors office, on Feb 28 the headmaster reminded three pupils of the obligation to remove their headscarves inside the school. One of them, who was over 18, ignored the headmaster, which provoked an altercation.

He then tried to remove the pupil from the school, but she resisted, said the education ministry. Faced with mounting tension and to avoid an altercation, he withdrew and the police intervened, said the ministry.

The student, however, told Le Parisien that she was leaving the school when she bumped into the headmaster. I had my hat and hood on and my veil, but it wasnt completely on, she said.

The headmaster came up to us and started shouting at my girlfriend. He saw that she was taking off her bonnet and veil, so he came straight to me. She says she was pushed and hit hard on the arm by the headmaster.

We were all shocked

A pupil interviewed by Le Parisien, who said he had witnessed the incident, also said the head raised his hand to her and then gave her a very violent blow on the upper part of her body. A classmate who said he intervened told Bondy Blog: There was a blow, everyone saw it and we were all shocked ... He literally hit her.

On March 5, the head of the Paris education authority denied that the headmaster had slapped the student in the face in messages posted on social networks.

Thats not how things happened, Valerie Baglin-Le Goff replied during a visit to the Maurice Ravel school complex. When she was seen again yesterday [March 4] with her family, the pupil admitted that she had not been slapped. The headmaster simply asked her to remove her veil. And when she didnt hear him, he put a hand on her back (...) But at no time was there any violence of the kind reported by certain media.

In a video broadcast on March 15 by the Collective for Countering Islamophobia in Europe, the student disputed this account, maintaining that she had received a violent blow to the arm.

On March1, three days after the altercation, the Paris education authority reported that the incident had relayed and warped on social networks, generating defamatory comments and threats.

France is home to Europes largest Muslim community.

More than 260 people have been killed in France since 2012 in Islamist attacks, prompting fierce debate over security and immigration.

Terror alert warning

On Sunday, the French government raised its terror alert warning to its highest level following the Friday night shootings in Moscow in which 139 died.

On Monday, Mr Attal announced that France will increase the numbers of soldiers for its Operation Sentinelle unit, which deals with handling terrorist threats.

He said an extra 4,000 soldiers would be put on standby for the Sentinelle division, on top of the 3,000 military staff already on deployment. The unit guards sites such as railway stations, places of worship, schools and theatres across the country.

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The headteacher of the Maurice Ravel Lycee thanked his colleagues for their support (file pic of school)

France's prime minister says a teenage girl will be sued by the state for falsely accusing her headteacher of striking her in a heated exchange over her wearing an Islamic head-covering.

The headteacher insisted that the pupil remove her head-covering inside the school, in accordance with French law.

He resigned after death threats circulated on social media.

The Islamist threat to French schools is taken extremely seriously since the murder of two teachers.

Samuel Paty was decapitated on the street in a Paris suburb in 2020 and Dominique Bernard was killed at his school in Arras five months ago.

The Paris school headteacher, whose name has not been made public, announced his decision in an email sent on Friday to colleagues at the Maurice Ravel Lycee in the 20th district of Paris.

"I have finally taken the decision to quit my functions," he explained, "out of concern for my own safety and that of the establishment."

"I leave after seven years, rich and intense, spent at your side, and after 45 years in public education," he wrote, thanking his colleagues for the support they had shown him over the past three weeks.

In the incident, which took place on 28 February, the head told three female pupils they should obey the law by removing their head coverings.

Two complied, but the third did not and there was an altercation.

In the days that followed, the head was the object of death threats on social media, which were signalled by the school to an interior ministry hotline.

Prosecutors said two people had been detained in connection with the death threats. Their identities have not been revealed, but the education ministry said they had no link with the school.

Police were sent to patrol around the school, which also received a visit from Education Minister Nicole Belloubet.

Officers found no evidence that the headteacher had struck the girl, and now Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has stepped in to say she is to be taken to court for making false allegations.

"The state... will always stand with these officials, those who are on the frontline faced with these breaches of secularism, these attempts of Islamist entryism in our education establishments," he said.

Education Minister Nicole Belloubet had earlier offered the headteacher her full support and sought to guarantee his safety

Politicians from both left and right expressed outrage that the career of a respected teacher should be ended by a hate campaign on the Internet.

"This government is incapable of protecting our schools," said Marine Le Pen of the hard-right National Rally on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"It is defeat for the state and the gangrene of Islamism gains yet more ground," said her niece Marion Marechal of the rival hard-right party Reconquest.

"This is where you end up when your policy is 'don't make waves'. This is where all those little surrenders lead to," said Bruno Retailleau of the centre-right Republicans.

"It's unacceptable. When a headteacher steps down because of death threats, it is a collective failure," said Boris Vallaud of the Socialist Party.

In a separate development, several Paris schools were forced to close on Wednesday after they received bomb threats from apparent Islamists.

Last week around 30 other schools in the Paris area received similar threats, accompanied by a video of a beheading.

While investigators are obliged to take the threats seriously, they cannot rule out that they are part of a Russian disinformation campaign.

Prime Minister Attal warned earlier this month that the Kremlin had embarked on a "massive destabilisation enterprise" to undermine French support for Ukraine.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  Plans to move the location of city hall are currently in flux after City Council rejected Mayor Andy Schors choice for a new location March 11.

While Schor and the developer, Boji Group, are regrouping for a second bite at the apple before City Council, another development company has challenged the process by which Boji was awarded the win on a request for proposals.

Granger Group was the only other developer to provide a proposal for relocating City Hall. It was rejected by the Schor administration.

But now the companys leaders are publicly pushing back on Schor and others  demanding a second look at their original proposal and throwing a second proposal into the mix.

Schor told the company in letter Tuesday hes not having it.

This is not a matter up for debate and will be my last communication on this matter, Schor wrote in the conclusion of his Tuesday letter.

It was the culmination of a series of back-and-forths between the mayor and Granger Group.

Granger Group principal Gary Granger wrote on Monday, Per Lansing Law, this should back into an RFP process to ensure that the City is receiving the best possible outcome, regardless of the pre-selected recipient, which is line with both local and state law.

In that letter Granger alleges the city allowed Boji Group to work with city officials to hone their proposal but did not allow Granger Group the same opportunity. He accuses the citys process of being flawed and illegal, which Schor denied in his Tuesday letter.

The Monday letter also included the Granger Groups second proposal.

1. Revised City Hall Space Requirement: Approximately 60,000 SF 2. Additional Space (city sublease): Approximately 20,000 SF 3. Building Plans: As presented in the Proposal (attached) 4. Brownfield Remediation (in process): Will be remediated by August 31, 2024 5. Transformational Brownfield: Non-contingent to City Hall 6. Other Projects: Non-contingent to City Hall 7. Project. Cost: $40 Million Fixed Price (per revised scope and land gift) 8. Design/Engineering Completion: September 30, 2024 (based on revised scope) 9. Project Commencement: October 1, 2024 10. Project Completion: September 30, 2025 Letter from Gary Granger, Granger Group development, to Lansing Mayor Andy Schor, March 26, 2024

In the companys original proposal, there were more asks.

A previous proposal would have the city sell the current the city hall to Granger Group for redevelopment, provide the developers first option for improvements to the Lansing Center, provisions for tax breaks for various projects for as much $650 million in development. Under the deal, the city would lease to own the building.

Under the Boji deal, the city would buy the building outright with the Boji Group acting as the developer to renovate the historic building into a functional city hall.

Lansing City Council member Peter Spadafore, who serves as one of four at-large positions on the body, says the Granger Groups efforts disingenuous.

They had their chance to put together a solid proposal, he says. They didnt win that RFP and now they are crying foul over sour grapes.

Spadafore was one of four members of Council to vote in favor of the purchase agreement to buy the former Masonic Temple, 217 S. Capital Ave., for $3.65 million. The building is on the historic landmarks list and was built in 1924.

While he was disappointed the proposal did not pass the first vote, hes confident an approval will come when the deal is presented to the council again in the coming weeks.

But he notes the clock is ticking  and not just on the $40 million state appropriation for a city hall which must be spent by the end of September 2027, or it goes back to the state. A Chicago area developer has been waiting in the wings for 7 years to renovate the current city hall into a hotel and restaurant hub.

Im not sure how much longer developers who are interested in the old city hall are going to sit around and wait for us to make that decision, he says. We could be passing up on a huge opportunity to save that building [Masonic Temple] and in the process City Hall. I think its prudent to take a little time, but I dont think we should be sitting on this for years.

First Ward City Councilmember Ryan Kost says he wants to see all of the current proposals and negotiations along with cost estimates thrown out and start the entire process anew.

That would include a fresh cost analysis to bring the current city hall up to functionality, which Spadafore says is likely to be somewhat under $100 million, well above the $40 million available from the state.

Kost notes the current estimates to bring the current building up-to-date is based on a previous analysis from several years ago.

He says the Boji and Granger proposals are both products of an RFP process that was flawed  from city needs and resources, to financing requirements to whether or not the city hall would play home to the district court and jail facility.

We need to do a new RFP that reflects the project moving forward to make sure that we did and do show full transparency in city government, he tells 6 News.

With the state appropriation on a clock, Kost says it behooves the city to be certain it has made the best deal while moving forward with the best process and practices.

My opposition is not on the Bojis being a developer, he says. Its the process.

Boji Group and Preservation Lansing will provide public tours of the Masonic Temple on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The tours and conversations will also present visitors with information on their proposal to redevelop the site into a city hall.

The Boji Group offer has not been without its own concerns. An original purchase deal would have seen the city fork over $1 million in carrying costs the developer says it amassed while holding the property for the city, and another $350,000 for a permanent visibility easement on a parking lot to the north of the building.

After 6 News reported on the situation, the city and Boji Group struck the $1.35 million from the deal.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
Video above: The FWC finalizes fishing regulations in April 2023.

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  Florida residents are encouraged to reel in amazing memories during a weekend full of license-free freshwater fishing.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is encouraging members of the community to cast their lines the weekend of April 6-7 to explore Floridas recreational fishing opportunities.

VIDEO: Massive alligator chomps down on fish at beach

Florida offers an experience seen nowhere else in the world through its abundant fishing opportunities, Tom Graef, FWCs Director of the Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management, said. License-free fishing weekends help residents and visitors alike connect with friends and family while enjoying the nature Florida has to offer.

The FWC is hosting two events over the weekend to get fishers across the state to get outdoors and take advantage of a license-free fishing weekend.

Tenoroc Fish Management Area

Where: 3829 Tenoroc Mine Road, Lakeland, FL 33805

When: Saturday, April 6 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Registration: Call FWC at 863-648-3200, pre-registration is required (closes Friday, April 5)

Free lunch provided by Publix

A limited number of rods and bait are provided for free for kids ages 15 and younger

Florida Bass Convention Center

Where: 3583 County Road 788, Webster, FL 33597

When: Saturday, April 6 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

What to bring: Fishing gear and bait

Free lunch of hotdogs and hamburgers provided by Vital Fleet Services

Caterpillar invasion: What are those fuzzy bugs taking over Florida?

To purchase or renew a fishing license, visit gooutdoorsflorida.com.

To learn more about where to go freshwater or saltwater fishing, and to find a boat ramp near you, visit MyFWC.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Even before 18 people were killed when airdrops of aid into Gaza went disastrously wrong on Monday, many had questioned the sense in using planes when food can be delivered far more rapidly by road.

With only a trickle of aid getting into the starving north and the United Nations warning of "imminent famine" as it accuses Israel of blocking deliveries, foreign governments have turned to airdrops as "a way to show that they're doing something", said Shira Efron of the Israel Policy Forum.

The problem is that "airdrops are as inefficient as they are dangerous", according to a source from an international NGO working in Gaza who asked to remain anonymous.

And they can be deadly to the desperate people waiting on the ground.

Twelve hungry Gazans drowned trying to fish food packages from the sea on Monday and six more were killed in stampedes.

Others have been crushed by the crates after parachutes malfunctioned, with five killed and 10 injured earlier this month when crates fell "like rockets" on the Al-Shati refugee camp.

Despite the deaths and the risks, Palestinians like mechanic Ahmed Al-Rifi were back the day after the latest tragedy waiting for the next drop, on the same beaches where the 18 were killed.

"Every day people get hurt or even killed fighting to get flour, water, lentils and beans," he said.

Taxi driver Uday Nasser said it was "deeply humiliating".

"The strong take from the weaker ones. Sometimes they use knives or even shoot," he said.

UNICEF's James Elder, who is in Gaza, said "typically food aid is delivered from the air because people are cut off and it's the only way to reach them".

"Here the lifesaving aid they need is a matter of kilometres away. We need to use the roads," he said.

Israel denies it is blocking food lorries but aid entering the Gaza Strip by land is far below pre-war levels -- around 150 vehicles a day compared with at least 550 before the war, according to UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.

And only a small amount of that is getting to the famine-threatened north, where the drops are concentrated.

- 'Pressure on Israel' -

After the latest tragedy, Hamas pleaded for foreign powers to stop the drops saying they were a "real danger to the lives of hungry citizens".

But the plea fell on deaf ears -- Jordan's army said five more drops were carried out on Wednesday with help from Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Germany and Spain.

The United States also pledged to continue airdrops with US Central Command confirming it had dropped 46,000 powdered meals over northern Gaza on Monday.

Some of those dropping the aid admit it is little more than a gesture with so many of Gaza's 2.4 million people starving.

US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Jeremy Anderson told AFP during a drop earlier this month that the aid delivered by air was only a "drop in the bucket" of what was needed.

He said that if a parachute failed to open they try to make sure it ends up in the water where "nobody is going to get hurt".

Tragically on Monday, people drowned as they tried to get the crates landing in the water, witnesses saying some of the dead were children.

"The countries doing the drops, particularly the US, know that it is making almost no difference," the humanitarian source claimed.

However, the drops are highly visible and make for striking television images.

You can see them from miles away -- military cargo planes flying low, leaving a trail of black, pink or grey parachutes behind them, each carrying up to a tonne of aid.

"I think it is a way of putting indirect pressure on Israel" to let more food aid in, the source added.

Washington insisted Tuesday it was working "around the clock" to increase the flow of aid into Gaza by land as well as setting up a sea corridor.

The US Army said a floating jetty that will enable aid deliveries via the sea in Gaza was now crossing the Atlantic.

Up to now, only one vessel carrying aid has been able to deliver -- a Spanish vessel towing a barge from Cyprus carrying 200 tonnes of aid earlier this month.

That was the equivalent of what 12 lorries can carry, said Elder, when "hundreds of trucks are waiting on the other side of the Gaza border" full of aid.

fg-lba-ibz/jxb
Germany will hand over 10,000 artillery rounds from its own military stocks to Ukraine in the next coming days, German General Christian Freuding said in an interview with Deutsche Welle (DW) published on March 27.

Ukraine has been facing increasingly severe ammunition shortages, namely due to delays in U.S. assistance caused by disputes in Congress. The lack of shells already had a direct impact on the ground, contributing to the loss of the key front-line city of Avdiivka.

Berlin unveiled a 500-million-euro ($540 million) package, including the 10,000 shells, earlier this month.

Freuding, who coordinates aid for Ukraine at the German Defense Ministry, said this batch is only the first of three stages of expected deliveries to Kyiv.

In the second phase, Berlin agreed to finance the purchase of 180,000 shells through the Czech initiative, the general noted. Prague announced last month that it had identified 800,000 shells abroad that could be bought and sent to Ukraine if other partners provide the necessary funding.

In the final, long-term stage of the plan, Germany entered into a bilateral agreement with an unnamed country to supply Ukraine with roughly 100,000 rounds starting in the last quarter of 20024, according to Freuding.

Initially a hesitant partner, Berlin has become Ukraine's second-largest military donor after the U.S. According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, Germany has supplied Ukraine with 17.7 billion euros (around $19 billion) in military assistance as of January.

Read also: German defense minister announces aid package for Ukraine worth $540 million

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
GEORGETOWN, Texas (KXAN)  Georgetown Independent School District recently received a $1,138 donation from A+ Federal Credit Union in Georgetown to pay off lunch balances.

The donation covered the balance for students at four campuses across the district.

We know that banking on each other and building stronger communities benefits everyone, said Eric R. Kase, A+ FCU President/CEO. By paying off the deficit meal balances for students in a partner district, we hope to ease a financial burden on families so they can focus their dollars on other important family needs.

A+FCU makes donation to pay off lunch balances in GISD (Courtesy: Georgetown ISD)

A+FCU makes donation to pay off lunch balances in GISD (Courtesy: Georgetown ISD)

A+FCU makes donation to pay off lunch balances in GISD (Courtesy: Georgetown ISD)

A+FCU makes donation to pay off lunch balances in GISD (Courtesy: Georgetown ISD)

A+FCU makes donation to pay off lunch balances in GISD (Courtesy: Georgetown ISD)

GISD said families can qualify for free or reduced lunch prices if they complete an application. Furthermore, districts have seen a decline in the number of applications being turned in.

If families qualify, they can then receive more than discounted meals for their students, according to the district. The application can also help students with extracurricular activities, college admissions tests and applications and more.

This is made possible due to Title 1 funding for public schools that allows districts to help students pay for these fees, according to GISD.

The district is able to to determine the percentage of students who are economically disadvantaged once they qualify for free or reduced lunch, which is 43%, the district said in a news release.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
This article was originally published in Georgia Recorder.

Georgia State University is blaming federal rules for the return of Pell Grants as a primary reason for its decision to close its prison education program this summer.

The program wont admit any new students but the university said it has a plan to help currently enrolled students at two state prisons finish their programs, which could take up to two years.

Officials cited the administrative challenges of securing federal financial aid, as well as a $24 million budget shortfall, as factors leading to the universitys decision to halt classes at three correctional facilities, according to a statement sent to Open Campus. The program has been operating since 2016.

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Pell Grants are the federal financial aid for low-income students. In July 2023, incarcerated students became widely eligible for the grants for the first time since the 1994 crime bill, which banned federal financial aid for prison education. More than 750,000 students are now eligible for aid, but they must be at a correctional facility that offers a college program approved by the federal Education Department.

Georgia States decision means that around 60 current students, according to numbers provided by faculty, at two state prisons and one federal facility may have to postpone their dreams of earning a degree inside. Incarcerated college students already face significant challenges in completing their degrees because of course disruptions and other interruptions outside of their control.

These students have been disappointed in their lives over and over and over again, said Katherine Perry, an English professor at Perimeter College, which is part of Georgia State. She was one of the three faculty members who co-founded the prison education program in 2016.

For me, its so important that they not put education in that bucket of things that let them down because thats why most of them didnt get their education before.

Perry felt blindsided when faculty and staff received an email at the end of November from Cynthia Lester, interim dean of Perimeter College, announcing the decision. The email cited financial constraints and the substantial administrative demands of seeking Pell approval from the federal Education Department.

The decision was not made lightly, but it does reflect the universitys commitment to responsible fiscal management and ensuring existing educational initiatives receive the necessary support and resources, Lester wrote in the email.

Perry said the program has faced financial challenges in the past but they have always been allowed to fundraise. In this case, when we went back to say, Can we just raise the difference? they said no, she said. And that makes me scratch my head.

The program has received at least $700,000 in grants since 2022, which may help fund the program for continuing students. In 2023, Georgia State also received a $669,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation to fund a literary journal through the prison education program.

Students at the two state prisons have also been able to use Pell Grants since 2020.

According to the statement, Georgia State faced a substantial budget cut of $24.4 million in fiscal year 2024 and anticipates another shortfall next year. The university estimated that the instructional and administrative costs of operating its prison education program across three correctional facilities would be around $180,000 in addition to money that they have received from donors.

The university also noted the challenges of meeting the complex requirements and ongoing commitments of the Pell application process, including navigating the paperwork for the federal Education Department, the accreditation process, and meeting key indicators such as job placement, expected earnings, recidivism rates, and completion rates. The spokesperson also expressed concerns about Georgia States ability to commit to providing services such as tutoring, counseling, and career guidance to incarcerated students.

Georgia State is exploring alternative avenues to recognize the importance of supporting the educational needs of individuals impacted by incarceration, including discussions with donors to establish a new program catering to students who have a personal experience with incarceration, according to the statement.

Big questions about the future

Last week, Georgia State students launched a campaign calling on the university to reverse the decision. As of Wednesday, 46 faculty members had also signed a letter of support asking Provost Nicolle Parsons-Pollard to continue the program.

Some experts in the field are also concerned about what Georgia States decision to shutter its program might foreshadow for other college-in-prison programs across the state and country.

We have the fourth largest prison system in the country and we have a really underserved population here, said Stacy Bell, an English professor at Emory University and board member of the Georgia Coalition for Higher Education in Prison. And without Georgia State, it raises really big questions about whats happening to the higher education-in-prison movement here in Georgia.

There are currently around 50,000 people incarcerated in the state. The Georgia Department of Corrections did not respond to a request for comment.

Ruth Delaney, director of the Unlocking Potential initiative at the Vera Institute, a nonprofit that provides technical assistance to prison education programs, expressed disappointment at the decision.

The federal regulations for Pell-funded prison education program require colleges to deliver postsecondary educational programming that is of comparable quality to that which the students at the other location of the college receive, she wrote in an email. Many of the services, reporting, and processes GSU describes are standard practices that accredited colleges already follow to serve their non-incarcerated student bodies.

Last May, nine men at Walker State Prison in Rock Springs earned their associates degrees from Georgia State, becoming the universitys first class to graduate inside. Three more incarcerated students at Phillips State Prison in Buford graduated in December.

Around 19 students at the federal United States Penitentiary Atlanta started their associates degree in September through Georgia State. In January, university officials announced they would no longer be continuing to offer classes at the penitentiary. Georgia State then asked the University of West Georgia, which is planning to launch a Pell-funded bachelors program at the federal facility in the fall, if they would accept the associates students, according to Tiffany Parsons, a sociologist and director of West Georgias prison education program.

West Georgia currently offers classes toward a bachelors degree to one cohort at Hays State Prison, a maximum security mens prison. Its one of two prison bachelors programs in the state, Parsons said.

The other four-year program is offered at Lee Arrendale, a womens prison, through Life University. That program is also in flux after corrections officials announced last year they were downsizing the prison.

Faculty have been working with the students at the penitentiary to help with the transition, Parsons said. She will be going into the federal facility to better understand what the students needs are and what kinds of support services West Georgia can provide going forward. We will have to be there a while and earn those students trust, she said.

The incarcerated students were informed about the decision in mid-February. Perry, the English professor, said her students at Walker seemed fearful that they wouldnt be able to finish their degrees, despite assurances that Georgia State had a teachout plan, including the possibility of another college picking up the program in the state prisons.

Maybe its because theyre so used to systems letting them down, Perry said.

A teachout plan outlines how an institution will help its students graduate if it stops operating before all students have completed their programs. Georgia State did not respond to follow-up questions about the details of its plan.

Many of the students who graduated in 2023 began their associates program when the program started in 2016, so its unclear how the current students, most of whom started last fall, will finish within two years.

Perry said the students asked her to quantify the odds that theyd be able to finish with Georgia State. One student felt particularly strongly about graduating from the same college because his kids were also enrolled at the university.

Just like on the outside, incarcerated students feel that being at a particular college is part of their identity as a student. Thats what it means to be a proud Panther, Perry said.

This story is published in partnership with Open Campus, a nonprofit newsroom focused on higher education. Subscribe to College Inside, an Open Campus newsletter on the future of postsecondary education in prison.

Georgia Recorder is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Georgia Recorder maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor John McCosh for questions: info@georgiarecorder.com. Follow Georgia Recorder on Facebook and Twitter.
Latvia will auction off a land plot in the center of Riga and the so-called House of Moscow located on it, which previously belonged to the government of the terrorist country of Russia. It was previously nationalized by a decision of the Saeima.

ADVERTISIMENT

The proceeds will be donated to help Ukraine. This was reported by LSM regarding the government's decision.

According to the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers, the House of Moscow and the land plot will be transferred to the Ministry of Finance, which will allow the Valsts nekustamie ipasumi company to sell the property at auction. The value of the land plot is EUR 517,083, and the value of the building is EUR 2,348,340.

The funds received at the auction (after deducting administrative expenses) are planned to be transferred to support Ukraine, so special amendments to the law will be submitted to the Seimas. It is noted that the facility may not be sold quickly, so the deal may not take place in 2024.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The logo of the energy company EnBW can be seen on a display. EnBW publishes its balance sheet for the past year. Marijan Murat/dpa

EnBW, Germany's third-largest energy supplier, increased its operating result - or adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) - by some 60% to almost 6.4 billion ($6.9 billion) last year.

The surge was mainly due to an increase in thermal generation - that is from coal and gas - and trading.

Due to increased market prices and fluctuations, the electricity volumes generated were sold at significantly better conditions compared to 2022, the Karlsruhe-based company announced on Wednesday.

A decline to between 4.6 billion and 5.2 billion is expected for this year.

"The background to this is that the volatility on the markets is decreasing and we assume that we will sell the electricity generated in our plants at lower prices than was the case in 2023," chief financial officer Thomas Kusterer explained in a press release.

The very good result for 2023 in thermal generation and trading cannot simply be extrapolated into the future, he added.

The new chairman of the board of management, Georg Stamatelopoulos, explained that EnBW will once again significantly increase its investments in the implementation of the green energy transition in the coming years due to the very good result.

Gross investments of 40 billion are planned by 2030, some 90% of which will be in Germany. "This makes EnBW one of the largest investors in the implementation of the energy transition in Germany."

Stamatelopoulos took over as chief executive almost three weeks ago after his predecessor Andreas Schell left the group after less than a year and a half due to disagreements with the supervisory board over corporate strategy.
The German government has emphasized its trust in the British judiciary in view of the latest delay in connection with the extradition case of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to the United States.

"We have repeatedly emphasized that British jurisdiction exists and that we trust it, and this is also evident in this case," government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit said in Berlin on Wednesday.

A spokesman for the German Foreign Office emphasized: "From our point of view, yesterday's decision shows one thing above all, namely that the British judiciary works independently and impartially."

In connection with an appeal by Assange against extradition, the High Court in London ruled on Tuesday that the 52-year-old may not be transferred directly to the United States. Accordingly, the Australian's application for an appeal could still be granted.

According to the judges, the appeal was denied on six of nine points. Three further points depend on whether the US government and the British home secretary can provide appropriate assurances. The judges set a deadline of three weeks for this.

The question is whether Assange can invoke the right to freedom of expression in proceedings in the US and enjoy the same rights as US citizens, that he will not be prejudged because of his citizenship and that the death penalty will not be imposed. If the deadline passes without the guarantees being given, an appeal hearing will be held immediately.

The US government wants to try the Australian on espionage charges. He faces up to 175 years in prison.
The German government has emphasized its trust in the British judiciary in view of the latest delay in connection with the extradition case of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange to the United States.

"We have repeatedly emphasized that British jurisdiction exists and that we trust it, and this is also evident in this case," government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit said in Berlin on Wednesday.

A spokesman for the German Foreign Office emphasized: "From our point of view, yesterday's decision shows one thing above all, namely that the British judiciary works independently and impartially."

In connection with an appeal by Assange against extradition, the High Court in London ruled on Tuesday that the 52-year-old may not be transferred directly to the United States. Accordingly, the Australian's application for an appeal could still be granted.

According to the judges, the appeal was denied on six of nine points. Three further points depend on whether the US government and the British home secretary can provide appropriate assurances. The judges set a deadline of three weeks for this.

The question is whether Assange can invoke the right to freedom of expression in proceedings in the US and enjoy the same rights as US citizens, that he will not be prejudged because of his citizenship and that the death penalty will not be imposed. If the deadline passes without the guarantees being given, an appeal hearing will be held immediately.

The US government wants to try the Australian on espionage charges. He faces up to 175 years in prison.

Washington accuses him of stealing and publishing secret material from military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and many other secret documents with the whistleblower now known as Chelsea Manning, who was at the time known as Bradley Manning, thereby jeopardizing the lives of US informants.

Assange's supporters see him as a journalist who has been targeted by the judiciary in Washington for exposing US war crimes.
Robert Habeck, Germany's Vice-Chancellor and Economy Minister, speaks after a meeting with representatives of the security and defence industry. Britta Pedersen/dpa

German Economy Minister Robert Habeck on Wednesday said that he supports the idea of a separate European commissioner for defence.

Speaking in Berlin after meeting representatives of the German defence industry, Habeck said he thought that such a role would make sense to coordinate processes between countries.

However, he pointed out that this alone would not mean a common European policy on defence. Habeck pointed out that there is an EU industrial commissioner, but policy in this area continues to be national in nature.

"We only see progress if we get concrete things rolling," Habeck said about defence policy in Europe, which is dealt with by individual nations.

He noted that it is important to "agree on concrete cooperation in procurement, agree on production, promote the same norms, the same standards" and to achieve the greatest possible agreement.

"If we look at Russia, we have to see that we also increase the production of goods that increase the country's security capability in Germany and Europe," he added.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen supported the idea of naming a defence commissioner at the Munich Security Conference in February.

In the European election campaign, Germany's conservative CDU and CSU parties are focussing on massively rearming the European Union, including aircraft carriers and its own missile shield. The parties are also calling for a separate European commissioner for defence.

Robert Habeck, Germany's Vice-Chancellor and Economy Minister, speaks after a meeting with representatives of the security and defence industry. Britta Pedersen/dpa

Robert Habeck, Germany's Vice-Chancellor and Economy Minister, speaks after a meeting with representatives of the security and defence industry. Britta Pedersen/dpa
We Mainers can take pride in being one of the most progressive states nationally in addressing climate change. This months action will introduce you to one of the primary reasons why Maine is a climate change leader  Efficiency Maine.

Efficiency Maine is an independent, quasi-state agency established by the Legislature in 2009 to plan and implement energy efficient programs in Maine. They now manage the energy project rebates for the state. Efficiency Maine has become a respected leader among other similar state agencies.

York Ready for Climate Action

Efficiency Maine provides information on rebates on any number of energy-consuming products, from washing machines to electric vehicles. Many of these rebates are income-dependent and may be as high as $8,000 for insulation and heat pumps. They also provide loans for home energy upgrades to up to $7,500 for low/moderate-income residents. Efficiency Maine offers a listing of vetted vendors for heat pump installation, weatherization projects, etc. And, they educate on the characteristics of a variety of appliances from light bulbs to solar panels. They also provide a variety of calculators (Efficiency Maine calls them tools) to explore your home's energy use.

Let's look at 4 of these tools:

How does your houses building envelope compare with others in the state? Plug in the type and amount of heating fuel you use annually. Is your home tight and weatherized or is it drafty and lacking insulation? https://www.efficiencymaine.com/at-home/savings-calculator/

What do you use for home heating fuel? How much would you save if you chose an alternative heating system?https://www.efficiencymaine.com/at-home/heating-cost-comparison/

Heating water for domestic use is one of your homes highest energy costs. Lets look at the costs of different systems for heating water. https://www.efficiencymaine.com/at-home/water-heating-cost-comparison/

CMP has introduced two new options regarding your electricity rate: a seasonal heat pump rate and an electric technology rate. These rates are targeted to individuals who are high users of electricity because of heat pump or EV adoption. Details are included in this link. https://www.efficiencymaine.com/electricity-rate-options/

Have fun playing with the numbers. Will they convince you to move gradually off fossil fuels and eventually electrify everything in your home? We hope so! If you would like assistance navigating these tools, reach out to York Ready for Climate Action. And then, tell us how your house measures up! After you use the building envelope comparison tool, let us know how you did. (info@yorkreadyfor100.org) And remember, we are all in this together!

Mac McAbee is the chair of the York Ready for Climate Action board.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Getting Ready: Calculate your way to a greener home
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  An Ottawa County postal worker was charged this week with stealing mail and a gift card  one of three postal employees recently accused in western Michigan of theft.

Two of the cases involve mail from home improvement retailer Menards.

In the most recent case, Robert L. Thompson is accused of taking a gift card and also stealing approximately 12 pieces of mail.

The offenses occurred over a three-day period in Ottawa County last fall, according to an indictment filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Grand Rapids.

Theft or embezzlement of mail by a postal employee is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Earlier this month, a federal grand jury indicted postal employee Jacqueline M. Garrow for removing items from the mail in Ingham County.

Shes accused of taking three Menards gift cards that had been addressed to recipients along her delivery route, according to the indictment. The offense occurred in 2022, records show.

Garrow, of Lansing, is free on a personal recognizance bond. She has a court hearing scheduled for mid-May.

And in Niles, located in southwest Michigan, a postal employee was accused of stealing Menards rebate checks.

Linda K. Stilwell was indicted last month on 21 counts of mail fraud and one count of delay and destruction of the mail.

Stilwell was working as a postal carrier out of the Niles Post Office when the offenses occurred between 2020 and 2023, court records show.

Stilwell stole mail addressed to people along her postal route, which contained Menards rebate checks, according to the six-page indictment. Defendant redeemed those Menards rebate checks to obtain products at Menards stores.

She also used pseudonyms and mailed rebate receipts to Menards and she received rebate checks from Menards in return, the indictment states.

The charge of delay and destruction of mail accuses Stilwell of opening and destroying mail between October 2020 and September 2023.

Mail fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison while delay/destruction of mail carries a five-year term.

Stilwell is out on an unsecured $10,000 bond. She has a pretrial conference set for late April.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Giordanos Celebrates its 50th Anniversary with Tribute to its Chicago Origins

CHICAGO  Giordanos, Chicagos hometown iconic deep-dish pizza brand, is celebrating its milestone 50th anniversary with an ode to the city that put the brand on the map. Established in 1974, Giordanos has become synonymous with deep-dish pizza excellence, attracting not only locals but visitors across the world. In honor of this landmark moment, the world-famous Chicago staple is kicking off its golden year with special 50th Anniversary offers and events for all customers, paying homage to the beloved city where it all started.

Starting on April 2 and continuing through May 28, 2024, Giordanos will offer an exclusive 50% discount on any pizza purchase every Tuesday. As a way to say thank you to its beloved customers, this promotion will be available exclusively for dine-in guests at all of Giordanos full-service locations.

Giordanos owes its existence to the unwavering love and dedication the Chicago community has shown us since 1974. This extraordinary milestone would not be possible otherwise, said Giordanos CEO Yorgo Koutsogiorgas. As we reflect on our roots and look towards the next 50 years, we want to pay tribute and rightfully thank our loyal customers and visitors through special offerings for the remainder of the year.

What began as a simple family recipe in a small town near Torino, Italy by Mama Giordano, eventually evolved into Giordanos when Italian immigrants Efren and Joseph Boglio moved to Chicago to establish their own pizza business. After opening up its first location in Chicagos historic south side in the spring of 1974, Giordanos has stayed true to its core values of quality ingredients and exceptional pizza experiences that put the brand on the map as it has grown to over 60 locations nationwide.

In recognition of 50 years of great service, food, and tradition the mayor of Chicago has officially declared April 5, 2024 as Giordanos Pizza Day. Giordanos has not only perfected the art of deep-dish pizza-making but has also become an integral part of Chicagos cultural fabric. Its welcoming ambiance, friendly staff, and commitment to using fresh, superior-quality ingredients create an experience that resonates with guests who will never forget their first time at Giordanos.

To find out more about the 50th-year celebrations and to find the closest location near you, visit www.giordanos.com.

ABOUT GIORDANOS

Based in Chicago, Giordanos World Famous Deep-Dish Pizza has been serving its world-famous pizza for 50 years when founders and immigrant brothers Efren and Joseph Boglio introduced their mothers stuffed pizza recipe to Chicago in 1974. Becoming one of the originators of what is now internationally known as Chicago-style stuffed pizza, Giordanos currently operates over 60 restaurants across the country and is also available for shipping anywhere in the continental United States by visiting www.giordanos.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Ahead of his run for Glendales mayoral seat this election season, Jamie Aldama announced Tuesday night that he is stepping down from the city council.

Aldama, the Ocotillo District representative, will resign from local office effective April 1, allowing him to continue campaigning for mayor. That role has long been held by incumbent Jerry Weiers who is looking to run for a fourth consecutive term.

The resignation satisfies Arizonas resign-to-run law, which requires officeholders to vacate their seat before seeking another.

It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the residents of Glendale as Councilmember and Vice Mayor, Aldama stated in his resignation letter, which he read aloud near the end of the councils meeting Tuesday evening.

Glendale Councilmember Jamie Aldama.

In 2022, Aldama held the position of Glendales vice mayor, which is rotated among councilmembers annually.

Together we have worked tirelessly to improve the city and Ocotillo community, and I am immensely proud of what we achieved, he continued.

Such improvements, he touted, include launching a community health clinic in his district, increasing available and affordable housing options for working-class families and opening community centers so kids can enroll in learning programs.

How are the mayoral, council races shaping up?

Based on candidacy paperwork filed with the city as of Wednesday morning, Aldama and former State Rep. Paul Boyer will campaign to oust Weiers, who was first elected in 2012.

With nearly 51% of the vote, Weiers narrowly won his 2016 reelection bid against Mark Burdick. He had a bigger margin of victory in 2020, when he defeated challenger Michelle Robertson, receiving 53.6% of the votes.

In both races, he won outright during the citys primary elections.

Boyer, a Republican, represented Glendale and parts of Phoenix while in the Arizona House of Representatives from 2013 to 2023.

Three council seats are also up for election this year. Voters in the Cactus, Sahuaro and Yucca districts will decide their representatives at Glendale City Hall.

Incumbent Councilmember Ian Hugh of the Cactus District has one challenger so far, Jose Lupe Guadalupe Conchas Jr.

In Sahuaro, incumbent Councilmember Ray Malnar is running unopposed.

After serving on the council off and on for three decades, long-tenured Councilmember Joyce Clark of the Yucca District is resigning from her seat at the end of the term.

Her upcoming departure from the council means at least one new member will be seated this winter.

Lupe Encinas, Dianna Guzman and Patty Ortega have expressed interest in running for the Yucca seat, according to the citys elections webpage.

Those looking to qualify for this years elections have until 5 p.m. on April 1 to file their nomination paperwork. Write-in candidates have until June 20 to file, according to the Glendale City Clerks Office.

The Primary Election will be held July 30. The Nov. 5 General Election will serve as a runoff for the top two vote-getters in races where a candidate did not win more than 50% of the vote.

What happens to Aldamas seat?

With Aldama leaving a vacancy on the council, Glendale leaders are expected to appoint someone to the seat for the remainder of his term, which expires in 2026.

Aldamas resignation also comes as he prepares to move out of the Ocotillo District, which he has represented since first taking office in 2014.

The area includes Glendale's historic downtown and is roughly bounded by Northern Avenue and Camelback Road, between 51st and 75th avenues.

While councilmembers must live within the district they serve, the mayor is an at-large position and isnt restricted to any region of the city.

A review of Maricopa County records in January showed that Aldama has owned a home in the Yucca District since 2020. He had purchased the home, he explained, to help his daughter and grandchildren, while he remained in his district, living in an apartment.

While I am stepping down from my position, my dedication to the betterment of our community remains steadfast and I am confident the Ocotillo District will continue to thrive and prosper, Aldama stated.

Shawn Raymundo covers the West Valley cities of Glendale, Peoria and Surprise. Reach him at sraymundo@gannett.com or follow him on X @ShawnzyTsunami.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Glendale Councilman Aldama resigns to campaign for mayoral seat
OWATONNA, Minn.  Gov. Tim Walz took a victory lap Tuesday in his State of the State speech, recalling the DFL's transformative 2023 legislative session and vowing a renewed push for tougher gun-safety laws and investments in the state's deteriorating infrastructure.

The second-term governor, a former Mankato teacher, spoke from the auditorium of the impressive, airy Owatonna High School that opened last fall, replacing a building that was more than a century old.

Walz likened the action of the DFL majority last session using a "window of opportunity" to Owatonna's tenacity in erecting a state-of-the-art high school that still smells fresh inside and will serve the community for generations.

"Most of the time, politics is incremental, frustrating and sometimes gridlocked altogether, but every once in a while you get an opportunity to make a whole lot of progress in a short amount of time," Walz said.

Legislators, justices, state officials and cabinet members drove south from the Capitol on icy freeways through a snowstorm to attend. About 200 policymakers attended, forming a genial audience for the governor as many were appointed by him. The students were away on spring break and no protesters interrupted the speech.

Walz spoke for less than 30 minutes, hitting hardest on his theme of care for the state's children and their education. After the speech, Republicans said there was a darker side to the "rosy picture" that Walz had painted, raising concerns about state spending, the lack of an across-the-board tax cut for Social Security while also hammering the need for more than the $16 million Walz proposed for emergency services throughout the state.

"We grew government in a way that is unsustainable," House Minority Leader Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, told reporters after the speech.

She and Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson, R-East Grand Forks, referenced the growth in last year's DFL-passed budget. While the two praised investments in education, they lamented a lack of funding to go with mandates and lagging reading scores.

Overall, Johnson said, "Minnesotans overwhelmingly are saying that they don't feel as if they're better off in this generation as they were in the last." He said there's pessimism in the state about the schools falling behind.

Walz was mostly upbeat in his highlight reel of the past year  including free school lunches, affordable housing funding and new clean-energy standards  while poking leaders in other states who are "spending their time and energy and their political capital picking fights with beer companies and librarians."

That was a reference to a boycott of Bud Light for featuring a transgender woman in a television ad and bans on books that some parents dislike. He declared such efforts unwelcome.

"Speaking on behalf of Minnesotans: We are happy to have people move here, we are happy take your private-sector investment dollars here, and we're happy to have brilliant young people moving in from other states," he said. "But what we're not going to take is radical ideas."

The 2023 session was such a big one for Walz that the governor has become a regular presence in the national media, speaking in support of both new progressive policies and President Joe Biden's re-election campaign.

With three more years in this term, Walz is in a comfortable position, able to tout accomplishments and make plans for the future. He's not given any hints about whether he will seek a third term or if he has national aspirations.

When he was re-elected in November 2022 with a DFL-controlled Legislature, the governor pivoted from the crises that consumed much of his first term: the COVID-19 pandemic and unrest following the murder of George Floyd. At the height of the pandemic, he delivered two State of the State addresses to lawmakers through a video screen.

The 2023 session was a DFL fever dream that included increasing education funding, legalizing recreational marijuana, restoring voting rights for felons upon release from prison, codifying abortion rights, establishing paid family leave and passing universal gun background checks and a red flag protection order law.

But Walz wants more. "We know that we can't legislate against every act of violence but surely we can do more," he said.

He pleaded with legislators to act on gun-safety bills that would require safe storage of firearms and speedy reporting of lost and stolen firearms. He asked for increased criminal penalties for straw purchasers, pointing to the recent killing of two officers and a paramedic in Burnsville by a man who used guns he wasn't legally allowed to buy or own.

His address included a pitch for a $989 million bonding bill, a package of construction projects that focuses on affordable housing, water infrastructure projects and repairing buildings on college campuses. The Legislature is still crafting its proposal.

"I know we won't agree on everything," he said. "Safe streets we can agree on. Clean water we can agree on. Affordable housing we can agree on."

The governor was especially impassioned as he got personal about fertility struggles. Walz has been speaking recently about his and First Lady Gwen Walz's yearslong experience using IVF to conceive.

He spoke of the Alabama Supreme Court ruling last month that said embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) should be considered children. He wants legislators to add IVF protections to a law passed last year to codify abortion rights.

"What those judges did was a direct attack on our family. It was a direct attack on my children," he said. "Gwen and I will not forget it, nor will we forgive it, and neither will thousands of other moms and dads across this state."

Delivering the address in Owatonna, Walz returned to his southern Minnesota roots after a dozen years representing the region in Congress. The southern Minnesota city of 26,000 bet big on itself with the new state-of-the-art high school where all the classrooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and educational options have expanded into nursing and hydroponics to aid local employers.

Owatonna voters in 2019 approved a referendum to build the high school for more than $100 million. Federated Insurance, Wenger Corp., Life Fitness, Viracon and Mayo Clinic offset some of the expense with about $25 million in donations.

The school expanded beyond the traditional technical and vocational training of wood, metal and engine shops to include a commercial kitchen and the nursing lab.

"I came  to Owatonna tonight to celebrate this magnificent school and discuss the work we're doing to improve the lives of children across Minnesota," he said. "But I also want people to remember just how many things had to go right for this vision to become reality."
If you head to a local Jersey Mikes Subs on Wednesday, March 27, all of your purchase will go to charity  specifically, Junior Achievement of the Heartland.

For the sixth straight year, JA is partnering with Jersey Mikes nationwide Day of Giving, and the three Jersey Mikes locations in the Quad Cities area will give every single dollar in sales to the Moline-based nonprofit that serves students in 24 counties in eastern Iowa and western Illinois.

Dougal Nelson (second from right), CEO of Junior Achievement of the Heartland, visits a Jersey Mikes location in March 2023 during the Month of Giving.

All month, generous customers have been making donations at nearly 2,500 Jersey Mikes locations nationwide during the 14th Annual Month of Giving fundraising campaign for local charities, according to a Tuesday release from JA.

The participating QC Jersey Mikes locations for the Wednesday fundraiser are:

3918 16th St., Moline

2124 E. Kimberly Rd., Unit 150b, Davenport

4451 E. 53rd St., Suite 300, Davenport

This is the sixth year Junior Achievement of the Heartland has partnered with Jersey Mikes for Month of Giving. To date, the initiative has raised more than $325,000 for the organization (including its Dubuque location).

The three Jersey Mikes Subs locations in the Quad Cities will be part of the nationwide Day of Giving, Wednesday, March 27, when 100% of all sales will go to Junior Achievement of the Heartland.

During this years Month of Giving in March, Jersey Mikes hopes to surpass last years record-breaking $21-million fundraising total, Junior Achievement said. Proceeds support more than 200 local charities across the country striving to fulfill their missions and make a difference.

Since 2011, Jersey Mikes Month of Giving has raised more than $88 million for local charities.

Jersey Mikes is committed to GivingMake a Difference in Someones Life. For more information, visit its website HERE. To learn more about JA of the Heartland, click HERE.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
Nissan will step up its electrification and growth plans across its diverse AMIEO region (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania), under The Arc, Nissan's new global business plan to drive value and strengthen competitiveness.

The plan, a bridge between the FY20-23 Nissan NEXT business transformation plan and Nissan's long-term Ambition 2030 vision, is focused on a broad-based product offensive, increased electrification, new approaches to engineering and manufacturing, the adoption of new technologies, and the use of strategic partnerships to increase global sales and improve profitability.

In the Middle East, five new Nissan SUVs will be introduced including the two new SUVs built and exported from India.

A springboard

The Arc also sets out a strategy to introduce electric vehicles to the Middle East, providing a springboard to expand further as Nissan looks to capitalise on its strong brand power in these important markets to drive further growth.

The AMIEO region aligns with Nissan's global strategy to ensure volume growth through a tailored regional strategy, setting the course for an accelerated transition to EVs, supported by a balanced electrified/ICE product portfolio, volume growth in major markets and financial discipline.

Through these initiatives Nissan aims to lift annual sales globally by 1 million units, of which the AMIEO region will contribute nearly one third (300,000 units). Of the 16 new electrified vehicles & 14 ICE vehicles launching globally, five of the all-new EVs & six of the all-new ICE vehicles will be launched in the AMIEO region. These will include some of Nissan's most well-loved nameplates among customers, including LEAF.

Clear roadmap

Guillaume Cartier, Chairperson, Nissan AMIEO said: "Through Nissan's new business plan, The Arc, we have a clear roadmap to a promising future, focusing on growth, adaptability, and competitiveness. Our AMIEO region is fully aligned to this global plan, and we are shifting gears to enhance our product offering in the region, advance electrification and technology and leverage our strategic partnerships to drive us to a new era.

"Through this comprehensive plan, we are championing competitiveness and growth, and I am confident we will deliver, providing the foundations to bridge to Nissan's Ambition 2030 vision."

Nissan will continue to harness strategic partnerships to support competitiveness and its product portfolio. In Europe, the Alliance with Renault/Ampere will see a new Compact EV introduced to replace the Nissan Micra, and two new LCVs launched. In Oceania, Nissan will harness its partnership with Mitsubishi Motors to launch a new 1-tonne pick-up. In India, Nissan will strengthen its Alliance with Renault to elevate its manufacturing footprint, with India set to join the UK as one of the region's key export hubs.

Electrification progress

The EV rollout is now planned for all AMIEO sub-regions, with Nissan in Europe continuing to lead the way in driving Nissan's global electrification strategy. By 2026, Nissan expects more than 40% of its sales mix in Europe to be 100% electric and 75% electrified.

Beyond product and sales, Nissan will realise its EV36Zero vision for EV and battery manufacturing, with the start of production of new electric vehicles at Sunderland plant in the UK. The transformational project, Nissan's 360-degree blueprint for zero emissions manufacturing and driving, is enabling an investment of up to 3bn by Nissan and partners.

Nissan's vision for an electric ecosystem will see V2G technology commercialised, with AC bi-directional capability becoming available on Nissan EVs during the plan period, starting in Europe. Leveraging new partnerships across the region, Nissan's V2G technology will include affordable two-way home chargers that will provide opportunities to share stored energy in the vehicle's battery with the electricity grid, delivering new revenue opportunities for Nissan and offering benefits to its customers and the environment

The Arc: Sub-region highlights

India

During The Arc period, Nissan in India will launch three new models, with plans to triple sales volumes, targeting 95,000 units in 2026, up 63,000 units vs. FY23.

The Alliance plant in Chennai (RNAIPL) will introduce two new Nissan SUVs, as well as launching two SUVs for Renault. With additional export opportunities representing around 100,000 units by 2026, India will join the UK as a key export hub for Nissan in AMIEO. During this mid-term plan period, Nissan will continue development of a new electric vehicle to be manufactured in Chennai

Africa

During the The Arc period, Nissan in Africa will target doubling sales in the sub-region to 110,000 units, up 56,000 units vs. FY23.

The three-year period will also see African customers benefit from the two new SUVs launched from India. In addition to the continued roll-out of Nissan's unique e-POWER technology, Nissan also plans to offer a 100% electric vehicle to South African consumers by the end of The Arc plan.

These actions, focusing on market expansion and the introduction of new products, will help ensure Nissan in Africa can capitalise on the projected uplift in vehicle market growth, and increase market share.

Europe

Five new EVs will arrive during The Arc period, including the Nissan LEAF, JUKE and a 100% electric replacement for the Nissan Micra.

Nissan will also harness its Alliance partnership with Ampere to launch an all-electric Interstar LCV as well as a new LCV based on FlexEVan.

To aid the transition to a fully electric future, Nissan is developing the third-generation of its e-POWER technology, the brands unique electrified powertrain that serves as a gateway to the full EV driving experience.

In terms of overall sales performance, Nissan in Europe is aiming to increase its sales volumes by 40% at the end of the plan period, up more than 170,000 units.

Oceania

During the The Arc period, Nissan in Oceania will launch four new models, including a new 1-tonne pickup, leveraging Nissan's partnership with Mitsubishi Motors.

Additional new electric vehicles will be introduced in Oceania, as the transition to electrification gathers pace.

Cartier continued: "With 140 markets and a population of almost 3.8bn, the AMIEO region is vast, and the opportunities are immense. With this new business plan, we will deliver our most exciting and innovate products and technologies to date, ensuring we are ready for the competition. In line with the global strategy outlined in The Arc, we are also transforming our business from the inside out, turning challenges into new opportunities, while creating additional revenue streams and enhancing our value proposition for customers."

The Arc ensures growth and transformation in the AMIEO region, laying the groundwork for Nissan's Ambition 2030 vision, the company's long-term vision to become a truly sustainable company, driving towards a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world.--TradeArabia News Service
Scientists have been warning for years that the consequences of global warming will be dire: from catastrophic floods to global extinction. The first warning signs can be seen right now. For example, along the coast of northern California and Oregon and up to Alaska, millions of strange creatures have been thrown out of the ocean.

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Scientists are sounding the alarm - this process is caused by climate change. The details were reported by the Daily Mail.

What are pyrosomes?

Researchers from the University of Oregon have found that pyrosomes or "sea pickles", which look like gelatinous transparent masses, have washed ashore in incredible quantities due to a powerful wave of sea heat that began in 2013.

The spread of pyrosomes in the Pacific Ocean has led to a decline in salmon and seabirds. Pyrosomes feed on phytoplankton, which is the basis of marine food chains, and provide food for a wide range of marine life.

Pyrosomes can grow from a few centimeters to 1.5 meters in length.

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"Pyrosomes consume animals that are at the bottom of the food chain and take energy out of the system that predators need," said Lisa Crozier, a research scientist at NOAA Fisheries Northwest Fisheries Science Center.

According to the study, pyrosomes cannot serve as an energy source for other species. While other creatures, such as salmon, pass on their energy source to feed larger animals, scientists say that 98% of pyrosome waste and residue accumulates at the bottom of the seafloor - in what are known as detritus pools.

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"It affects the whole ecosystem... the pyrosome is consuming energy that would normally go through several stages to end up in the salmon," study co-author Dylan Gomez told The Seattle Times.

The increase in water temperature allowed pyrosomes to actively reproduce, while some fisheries were closed as the number of salmon, cod and crabs decreased. Scientists have suggested that the rise in temperature is the reason why the metabolic rate of animals increases in warmer water and they consume more energy. It is also important to take into account the drop in oxygen levels caused by the heating of the water.

Global warming is changing the ecosystems of the northeast Pacific.

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Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.
LOS ANGELES  Federal agents found firearms during searches of properties belonging to Sean "Diddy" Combs in both Los Angeles and Miami, three sources familiar with the matter said Tuesday.

Homeland Security Investigations executed warrants out of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York on Monday and seized the music mogul's phones in Miami before he was scheduled to depart for a trip to the Bahamas.

Combs is a subject of a federal criminal investigation amid several lawsuits filed against him in recent months, a source familiar with the matter said.

The source said three women and a man had been interviewed by federal officials in Manhattan in relation to allegations of sex trafficking, sexual assault and the solicitation and distribution of illegal narcotics and firearms.

police investigate sean puff diddy combs (Rebecca Blackwell / AP)

It was not immediately clear what kind of firearms were found or whom they belonged to.

Aaron Dyer, an attorney for Combs, described Monday's searches as "gross overuse of military-level force." Neither Combs nor any of his family members have been arrested, Dyer noted in his statement.

"There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated," Dyer said. "Mr. Combs was never detained but spoke to and cooperated with authorities."

Combs is innocent and "will continue to fight every single day to clear his name," Dyer said, adding that Combs had not been found liable for the allegations against him.

Since November, Combs has been the subject of numerous civil lawsuits following a civil suit from his former romantic partner Cassie, who accused him of physically and sexually abusing her for years. Cassie, whose full name is Casandra Ventura, used the New York Adult Survivors Act, which offered a one-year window for adult victims of sexual assault to come forward with civil claims regardless of the statute of limitations.

Federal agents outside one of Sean Combs' properties. (Rebecca Blackwell / AP)

She and Combs settled the suit a day after she filed it in New York. Combs has rejected the accusations, calling them offensive and outrageous.

Since then, three other women have filed lawsuits in the Southern District of New York alleging that Combs sexually assaulted them. Two said they were teenagers at the time.

Combs has denied each of the sexual assault allegations, calling them sickening.

A former employee who worked for Combs from September 2022 to November 2023 also filed a lawsuit in February alleging that Combs sexually harassed, drugged and threatened him for more than a year. In his suit, Rodney Lil Rod Jones, a producer, also alleged that he had video and audio evidence of Combs, his staff members and others engaging in serious illegal activity.

The cases are ongoing, and Combs has denied the allegations.

Also Tuesday, a law enforcement source familiar with the matter confirmed that a man arrested on drug charges at a Miami airport Monday is an associate of Combs.

Brendan Paul, 25, was arrested Monday at the Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport on charges of possession of suspected cocaine and suspected marijuana candy, according to a police report.

Pauls arrest came the same day federal agents conducted search warrants at properties in Miami and Los Angeles owned by Combs.

Court records show Paul was released on bond Tuesday. A woman who answered the phone at a number listed for Paul hung up on an NBC News reporter.

Paul's attorney, Brian Bieber, told NBC News on Wednesday, "we do not plan on trying this case in the media  all issues will be dealt with in Court."

Brendan Paul is named in the civil lawsuit against Combs that was filed by Jones, the music producer. Jones alleges that he and a man named Brendan Paul were required to carry drugs and firearms for Combs when Combs traveled.

Photographs in the civil lawsuit suit of that person are similar to the Paul shown in the booking mugshot from Miami-Dade authorities.

A representative for Combs did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday.

A request to the Miami office for Customs and Border Protection inquiring whether Paul was traveling with Combs was forwarded to Homeland Security Investigations.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The latest cyber threat comes after an attack on NHS Dumfries and Galloway IT systems

A ransomware group is threatening to publish a huge cache of stolen data following a cyber attack on a Scottish health board.

NHS Dumfries and Galloway warned earlier this month that hackers could have acquired a significant quantity of patient and staff information.

A group calling itself INC Ransom has now said it will make public three terabytes of data unless its demands are met.

The cyber criminals have published what theyve called a proof pack, including confidential information on a small number of patients.

The first minister said the government is doing everything it can to stop the release of the stolen data.

NHS Dumfries and Galloway confirmed that "clinical data relating to a small number of patients" had been published by a recognised ransomware group.

In a statement, it said hackers were able to access a significant amount of data including patient and staff-identifiable information.

Jeff Ace, the health board's chief executive, said patient-facing services were functioning "effectively as normal" after the attack on IT systems earlier this month.

He said that as part of the response, the health board will be making contact with any patients whose data has been leaked.

He said: We absolutely deplore the release of confidential patient data as part of this criminal act.

NHS Dumfries and Galloway is very acutely aware of the potential impact of this development on the patients whose data has been published, and the general anxiety which might result within our patient population.

Mr Ace previously said that "a very great effort is being made to try to prevent the attack from being repeated".

The health board is continuing to working with Police Scotland, the National Cyber Security Centre and the Scottish government and other agencies.

Is the stolen information valuable?

BBC News cyber reporter Joe Tidy said that, like most ransomware groups, Inc ransomware has a darknet website where it posts about victims and attempts to pressure them into paying.

The gang posted about NHS Scotland on Tuesday, with a threat to publish three terabytes of stolen data - an enormous amount - soon.

However, as is always the case with cyber attacks, it is the quality and not quantity of data that makes it more or less serious.

Along with the threat, the gang has posted some screenshots of the type of stolen material calling it a proof pack.

The paperwork does look very sensitive - one is a letter between doctors about the cancer care of one patient, while another is a referral letter about a woman who is having mental health issues regarding her weight.

However, from the data being advertised so far, the information does not seem very valuable to cyber criminals.

Most of it is years old, with the most recent paperwork being from 2019.

It remains to be seen what else is now in criminal hands, and how the NHS will react.

The advice is to not pay criminals as it fuels their enterprise, so the likelihood is that the hackers will indeed publish the entire trove of data on their site.

It will then be poured over by other hackers to see if theres a way to make a quick buck from further attacks.

A counter on the post shows the level of interest so far - 322 views.

'Extortion attempts'

Labour's South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has described the threats to release the stolen NHS data as deeply concerning for NHS staff and patients.

Mr Smyth raised his fears at Holyrood with Health Secretary Neil Gray that the attack on NHS Dumfries and Galloway was related to extortion attempts.

Speaking in the Scottish Parliament, he added: "I have no doubt that this will have been the motive in the recent attack on Dumfries and Galloway."

Mr Gray previously said there were "well-established procedures" for dealing with cyber attacks.

He said steps were being taken to help people protect themselves, and called on staff and the public to "be on their guard".

Asked if enough was being done to protect Scotlands public sector from cyber attacks, the First Minister Humza Yousaf said: Im confident and satisfied that the appropriate steps have been taken by health boards, not just by Dumfries and Galloway.

We take our cyber security very seriously but there are hostile actors who are attempting to access data right across the public sector.

Well continue to invest in cyber security where we can, he added.

The first minister said the government and its partners are doing everything they can to stop the stolen data from being released.

Follow the BBC for the South of Scotland on X.

Listen to news for Dumfries and Galloway on BBC Sounds.
An onslaught of hail in southeastern Texas that destroyed large portions of a massive solar farm is highlighting the perils of trading traditional power sources for vulnerable "green" alternatives and sparking concern about the potential for chemical leaks from the broken panels.

Aerial footage captured the significant damage suffered by the Fighting Jays Solar farm in Fort Bend County, Texas. The March 15 storm shattered hundreds of panels and prompted a nearby resident to question if the solar panels were leaking chemicals such as cadmium telluride, which is linked to serious health risks in humans.

"My concern is the hail damage that came through and busted these panels  we now have some highly toxic chemicals that could be potentially leaking into our water tables," Needville resident Nick Kaminski told Fox affiliate KRIV-TV. "I have a family  two children and a wife. My neighbors have kids and a lot of other residents in the area who are on well water are concerned that the chemicals are now leaking into our water tables."

TEXAS GOVT PUSHING ACTION THAT COULD 'KNEECAP' NEW FOSSIL FUEL GENERATION, DESTABILIZE GRID, EXPERTS WARN

Images captured by Fox affiliate FOX26 Houston KRIV show extensive damage to Fighting Jays Solar in Fort Bend County, Texas.

The Fort Bend County Environmental Health Department is investigating the incident and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has also been contacted regarding any potential chemical contamination, Needville Mayor Chad Nesvadba told Fox News Digital. Fort Bend County officials didn't respond to multiple requests for comment.

Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, represents the community surrounding the solar farm and is engaged with those whose homes, businesses and property were destroyed by the storm, according to spokesperson Emily Matthews, who noted the incident underscores the importance of an "all-of-the-above" approach to energy policy.

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CALIFORNIA'S GRID FACES COLLAPSE AS LEADERS PUSH RENEWABLES, ELECTRIC VEHICLES, EXPERTS SAY

"As far as solar farms being damaged where hail and tornadoes are common, those companies knowingly run the risk of building solar panel farms in these areas," Matthews told Fox News Digital. "Events like this underscore the importance of having an all-of-the-above energy approach to meet our energy needs and showcase how our country cannot solely rely on or fully transition to renewable energy sources like this."

Denmark-based Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, the parent company of the Fighting Jays Solar project's developer, AP Solar Holdings, confirmed the storm had taken out much of the farm, but there was currently no risk to the nearby community of chemical exposure.

Local resident Nick Kaminski is interviewed by Fox affiliate FOX26 Houston KRIV.

"On March 15th, a hailstorm caused solar panel damage to Fighting Jays Solar, a 350 MW project located in Fort Bend County, Texas," CIP told Fox News Digital in a statement. "We are currently assessing the extent of the impact of the storm on the generation of the project, while the plant continues to safely operate at a reduced capacity."

It added: "The silicon-based panels contain no cadmium telluride and we have identified no risk to the local community or the environment."

BERKELEY ABANDONS LANDMARK NATURAL GAS BAN AFTER COURT BATTLE

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which oversees the state's power grid, said it was aware of the situation, but had not identified any grid reliability concerns. The Texas Public Utilities Commission added that it has yet to receive any reports about the incident.

Still, Daniel Turner, the executive director of energy watchdog group Power the Future, said the storm's impact could foreshadow future threats to the U.S. power grid if the nation transitions to a heavy reliance on solar energy.

Rep. Troy Nehls, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials, appears during a hearing on June 6, 2023.

"There's this enormous shell game happening by the Biden administration, by the environmental left, presenting wind and solar as perfectly green, clean, and carbon-neutral," Turner told Fox News Digital. "They use all of these buzzwords. But they're none of that and they also have enormous drawbacks. And it's doing the American people a great disservice to obfuscate these very obvious shortcomings."

He noted that, because solar panels are largely manufactured in China, the destruction of solar farms could be leveraged in geopolitical disputes between the U.S. and China.

"Why would we expect them to race to our aid when our grid is down nationwide, and they are the ones holding the goods that we need to get back up?" Turner said.

Fighting Jays Solar came online in July 2022 and spans more than 3,000 acres, according to AP Solar Holdings. It is located about 40 miles from downtown Houston.

The destruction of the project, meanwhile, comes as the nation broadly races to replace existing fossil fuel power with green energy alternatives. But those plans have been criticized by experts who warn of those energy sources' reliance on certain windy and sunny weather conditions.





Original article source: Hail cripples massive solar farm, sparking resident concern about vulnerable 'green' tech
A police vehicle patrols an area that was set fire to by armed gangs in Port-au-Prince, Haiti (Clarens SIFFROY)

Haiti's political future remained in limbo Tuesday as squabbles among party leaders bogged down a council meant to name a transition government, while the capital experienced relative calm after weeks of violence.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has led the impoverished Caribbean nation since the shock 2021 assassination of president Jovenel Moise, promised over two weeks ago to step down after a transitional council is stood up -- though reaching that stage has proved exceedingly difficult.

Henry's decision came after a steadily worsening security crisis culminated in a coordinated campaign of attacks by armed gangs demanding his ouster late last month.

The presidential transition council -- to be composed of seven voting members and two non-voting members -- draws from Haitian political parties, the private sector and others, and is to name an interim prime minister and government to set the stage for fresh elections.

On Monday evening, tentative members of the council were due to elect their chair.

But the meeting was postponed indefinitely, as several representatives withdrew from the council, one of the members told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Leslie Voltaire, the delegate of the Fanmi Lavalas party, said in a letter to her colleagues that electing a president was not possible without a "political accord signed between the different sectors."

And just as the council seemed to be finalized, Rene Jean Jumeau, one of the non-voting members who had in recent days called for voting privileges, announced he would no longer take part.

"The need for concrete action is too great to remain impotent in a spectator's posture," said Jean Jumeau.

The council was announced on March 11, following emergency meetings between Haitian leaders and representatives from several countries and organizations, including the Caribbean regional bloc CARICOM.

- Call for external push -

Gedeon Jean, director of a Haitian human rights group who took part in the meetings, said it was time for the international community to "get back to work" to "push the players" in Haiti toward an agreement.

Otherwise, he said, the formation of transitional authorities could take "months and months."

Kenya, which agreed to lead a UN-approved police support mission to Haiti, has put its plans on hold until the transitional council is in place.

Jean said that since the Kenyan mission won't be ready immediately, the international community should consider an "intermediate force" to stabilize the worsening situation, possibly led by countries in the region.

Meanwhile, Haiti's civilians continue to pay a high price.

"Thousands of children are on the brink, while life-saving supplies are ready to be delivered if violence stops and roads and hospitals are opened," UNICEF boss Catherine Russell warned Tuesday.

While the shooting stopped in Port-au-Prince on Tuesday, the evening before, gang members looted and set fire to pharmacies, clinics and homes near the Haitian State University hospital, according to three residents' accounts.

The hospital, one of the largest in the country, has become inoperable due to gang activity.

Businesses were nonetheless open in the capital and activities were continuing as usual, though an overnight curfew was extended through Friday.

Helicopters were seen flying overhead, as several countries work to repatriate their citizens.

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PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Members of a transitional presidential council who will be responsible for selecting a new prime minister issued their first official statement on Wednesday, pledging to restore public and democratic order in Haiti.

The statement, although signed by eight members of what is supposed to be a nine-member council, is still considered a sign that a contentious and drawn-out nomination process is ending and that the council might soon assume its official duties.

We are determined to alleviate the suffering of the Haitian people, trapped for too long between bad governance, multifaceted violence and disregard for their perspectives and needs, they said.

The members noted that as soon as the council is officially installed, they would help put Haiti back on the path of democratic legitimacy, stability and dignity.

The statement was issued nearly a month after gangs began targeting key government infrastructures across the capital of Port-au-Prince. The violence has somewhat subsided since the Feb. 29 attacks began, with gangs previously burning police stations, opening fire on the main international airport that remains closed and storming Haitis two biggest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

Scores of people have been killed, and some 17,000 left homeless.

In recent days, the violence has been largely focused on downtown Port-au-Prince.

The council members pledged to execute a clear action plan aimed at restoring public and democratic order through the restoration of the security of the lives and property of the population, the relief of poverty and the achievement of free elections as well as the reforms necessary to the progress of the nation.

The members said they have developed the criteria and mechanisms to choose a council president, a new prime minister and a ministerial cabinet.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who remains locked out of Haiti, has said he would resign once the council is formally established.

We are at a crucial turning point that calls us to unity. It is imperative that the entire nation comes together to overcome this crisis for the well-being of all and a future better for our country, the council members said.

Those who signed the statement were Fritz Alphonse Jean, with the Montana Accord group; Leslie Voltaire with Fanmi Lavalas; Louis Gerald Gilles with the December 21 Agreement political group, which is allied with Henry; Laurent Saint-Cyr with the private sector; Edgard Leblanc Fils with the January 30 political group; Emmanuel Vertilaire with the Pitit Desalin party; Augustin Smith with the EDE/RED political party; and Frinel Joseph as one of two non-voting observers.

Smith recently replaced former nominee, Dominique Dupuy, a UNESCO ambassador, who announced Sunday that she was resigning following political attacks and death threats.
Halle Berrys Perimenopause Was Misdiagnosed As Herpes: My Doctor Had No Knowledge And Didnt Prepare Me | Photo: Kamil Krzaczynski via Getty Images

Halle Berry recently sat down with First Lady Jill Biden to discuss all things menopause.

On March 25, Propper Daley, an organization that specializes in advocating for social impact, hosted the fourth annual A Day of Unreasonable Conversation summit  an invite-only event that puts various industry leaders, influencers and celebrities from different backgrounds in the same room with writers, artists, producers and executives.

The goal is to have honest conversations surrounding politics, race, education, climate change, health and labor to help organic storytelling at the core of the film and TV industry, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Special guests included Kerry Washington, Paris Hilton, Michelle Norris, Dr. Yusef Salaam and Halle Berry.

Berry participated in the womens health segment of the summit where the topic focused on the experiences of menopausal women and how its often portrayed in stories. The areas of discussion stemmed from President Joe Bidens recent executive order to increase research in womens health studies. Now, Berry, who is 57, is using her platform to spark conversations about midlife women with the hopes that menopause is no longer perceived as a taboo topic.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Halle Berry (@halleberry)

During her fireside chat with Jill Biden, she opened up about how she learned she was experiencing perimenopause.

First of all, my ego told me that I was going to skip it  Im very safe, Im healthy, I managed to get myself off of insulin and manage my diabetes since Im 20 years old, she said, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

And so when Berry finally [met] the man of my dreams, the fact that her sex drive was so high caught her off guard. But after noticing grueling pain after sexual intercourse, Berry scheduled a doctors appointment and was told she had herpes. However, Berry and Hunts STD testing debunked that either of them had herpes. Instead, it was a symptom of perimenopause.

My doctor had no knowledge and didnt prepare me, thats when I knew, Oh my gosh, Ive got to use my platform, I have to use all of who I am and I have to start making a change and a difference for other women,' she said.

Berry ended the session by asking the audience to help us change the way culture views women at this stage of our lives.

She said, Were not exactly at the end. Were sitting up here, two women who are clearly down the path of life, we are not done. Were just getting started in our next act.
The family of a Israeli man thought to have been taken hostage by Hamas, say they have been told that he is in fact dead.

Uriel Baruch's relatives say they were informed by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) that he was killed on 7 October in the attack on the Nova music festival, and that his body is being held in Gaza.

Baruch, who was 35 and from Givon, was married with two children.

According to Israel, 253 Israelis and foreigners were kidnapped by Hamas on 7 October.

Of those taken, about 130 remain unaccounted for, at least 34 of whom are presumed dead.

Israel gives an official figure of 134 hostages because it includes four people taken hostage in 2014 and 2015. Two of these are believed to have died.

These are the stories of those hostages who are still being held, which have either been confirmed by the BBC or credibly reported.

This list is regularly updated and names may change, as some people feared kidnapped are confirmed to have been killed or released.

Last updated on 27 February 2024 at 14:01 GMT

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Yagev Kirsht, 34, was taken from his home in Kibbutz Nirim, alongside his wife, Rimon Buchstab Kirsht. She has now been released.

Alexander Trupanov, was taken hostage with his mother Lena Trupanov, 50, his partner Sapir Cohen, 29, and his grandmother Irina Tati, 73. All were abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz as they spent the Sabbath together, according to a statement by Canada's Raoul Wallenburg Center for Human Rights. Irina and Lena were released on Wednesday 29 November and Sapir was freed the next day.

Ariel Cunio, his girlfriend Arbel Yahud and her brother Dolev are also thought to have been abducted in the same attack on Nir Oz. Eitan Cunio, Ariel's brother who escaped Hamas, told the Jewish Chronicle that his last message from Ariel said: "We are in a horror movie."

David Cunio, 33, another of Ariel's brothers, was also kidnapped from Nir Oz, family say. David's wife Sharon Aloni Cunio and their three-year-old twin daughters Ema and Yuly were released on 27 November. Sharon's sister Daniele Aloni, and her six-year-old daughter Emilia were both released on 24 November.

Doron Steinbrecher, 30, a veterinary nurse, was in her apartment in Kibbutz Kfar Aza when Hamas attacked, the Times of Israel reported. At 10:30 on 7 October, the newspaper said, she sent a voice message to friends: "They've arrived, they have me."

Itzhak Gelerenter, 53, was taken from the Supernova festival. His family said the IDF found his phone was located in Gaza, the Times of Israel reported. His daughter Pivko told the paper: "I'm trying to think good thoughts, I have a powerful, smart, resourceful father."

Naama Levy, 19, was filmed being bundled into a jeep, her hands tied behind her back. The footage was released by Hamas and circulated widely on social media. According to her mother, the teenager had just begun her military service.

Yousef Zyadna, a 53-year-old Bedouin dairy farmer, was abducted from Kibbutz Holit and taken to Gaza along with his sons Hamza, 22, and Bilal, 18, and his daughter, Aisha, 16. Aisha and Bilal were released on Thursday 30 November.

Elad Katzir, 47, was abducted from Nir Oz with his mother Hanna. Hanna has now been released.

Ohad Ben Ami, 55, was kidnapped from Be'eri with his wife, Raz. She was released by Hamas on 29 November.

Twin brothers Gali and Ziv Berman, 26, were taken from Kfar Aza. Ziv was messaging a friend as the attack happened. Their family said the IDF has told them the brothers are being held in Gaza. Their brother Liran told CBN news the pair had "twin power" and were the centre of attention wherever they went.

Iraq-born Shlomo Mansour, 85, was taken captive from Kibbutz Kissufim, where he lived and worked as a chicken coop manager. His wife, Mazal, managed to escape.

Michel Nisenbaum, 59, is a dual Brazilian-Israeli citizen who has lived in Israel for 45 years and works as a computer technician, his family told Brazilian media. They also say he is diabetic and has Crohn's disease. On 7 October, they say, someone claiming to be from Hamas answered his phone when they tried to call him.

Daniela Gilboa, 19, sent messages saying that Kibbutz Nahal Oz, where she was staying, was under attack and asked her mother to pray for her. Her boyfriend, Roy Dadon, told the Economist 1843 magazine that he believes he saw a glimpse of her in a video showing three girls being driven away in the back of an SUV.

Itay Chen, 19, a dual US-Israeli citizen and IDF solider, was on active duty with a tank unit on 7 October, according to the Times of Israel. The paper reported that his family was notified by the IDF that he is officially considered missing in action and probably being held hostage. Another soldier in his unit, Matan Angrest, 21, is also presumed to be in Gaza.

Yosi Sharabi, 51, was taken from Be'eri with his brother, Eli Sharabi, 55. Eli's wife and two daughters were murdered in the attack. Ofir Engel, the boyfriend of Yosi's daughter, Yuval, was also taken, but released on 29 November.

Agam Berger, 19, was kidnapped from Nahal Oz. She was seen being taken away in videos released by Hamas.

Edan Alexander, 19, is an Israeli-US citizen who volunteered to join the Israeli army. He was serving near the Gaza border at the time of Hamas's attack. Edan's family said they had been told by Israeli officials that he had been taken to Gaza as a hostage.

Kaid Farhan Elkadi, 53, lives with his family south of Rahat and worked as a security guard, according to Israeli media. Reports said his family believes he was kidnapped and taken to Gaza, based on images shared by Hamas.

Ilana Gritzewsky and Matan Zanguaker were captured near the Gaza border, family say

Matan Zanguaker, 24, was taken with his partner Ilana Gritzewsky, 30, from Nir Oz, according to Ilana's father. Ilana, a Mexican national, was released on Thursday 30 November.

Eitan Horn, 37, and his brother Yair, 45, both Argentinian citizens, were also in Nir Oz at the time of the attack. Their father Itzik said he believes they were kidnapped. Yair is a construction worker while Eitan works in education.

Itai Svirsky, 38, is thought to have been abducted when his elderly parents were killed in Be'eri. He had been visiting them for the holiday of Simhat Torah.

Keith Seigel, 64, and his wife Adrienne - often known as Aviva - Seigel, 62, were taken from their home in Kfar Aza, Keith's brother Lee Seigel told the BBC. Adrienne was released on 26 November.

Omri Miran, 46, lived in Nahal Oz with his wife and two daughters. Omri was led away by Hamas with his hands tied, his wife Lishay told the Guardian newspaper. She told him not to be a hero, urging: "Do whatever they want because I want you back."

Bipin Joshi, 23, a Nepalese student, is believed to have been taken from Kibbutz Alumim. Nepalese newspaper Setopati says he was one of 49 university students studying agriculture in Israel. It says 10 students were killed in the attack.

Ilan Weiss, 58, went missing from Kibbutz Be'eri after he was last seen leaving the house to defend the community. On 25 November, his wife Shiri Weiss, 53, and their daughter, Noga, 18, were freed from captivity in a hostage deal.

Amiram Cooper, 85, and his wife Nurit, 80, were taken from their home in Nir Oz, their daughter-in-law Noa told the BBC. The family last spoke to the couple during the Hamas attack, Noa said, when the couple were in their safe room. The family later traced Amiram's phone to Gaza. On Monday 23 October, Nurit was one of two women to be released.

Oded Lifshitz, 83, and his wife Yocheved, 85 were taken hostage from Nir Oz. On Monday 23 October, Yocheved was one of two elderly women to be freed. After hearing the news of her mother's release, their daughter Sharone - a London-based artist - said: "While I cannot put into words the relief that she is now safe, I will remain focused on securing the release of my father and all those - some 200 innocent people - who remain hostages in Gaza."

Haim Peri, 79, was taken from his home in Nir Oz, reports the Times of Israel, and freed hostage Yocheved Lifshitz said she saw that he was alive and well. His son Lior Peri told Talk TV that Haim had locked his wife inside the safe room before giving himself up to kidnappers.

Avraham Munder, 78, was kidnapped from Nir Oz, Israeli officials say. His wife Ruthi, daughter and grandson have since been released.

Omer Neutra, a 22-year-old Israeli-American and grandson of Holocaust survivors, put off plans to go to college in the US to study in Israel, and eventually joined the IDF. He was serving as a tank commander near Gaza when Hamas attacked. Omer's parents say they were told by the Israeli embassy that he had been kidnapped.

Ron Benjamin's vehicle was found empty following the attacks

Ron Benjamin, 53, had been taking part in a group cycle ride near the Gaza border when the Hamas attack began and he decided to drive home, his family told Israeli media. Days later, his vehicle was found empty and his family believe he was kidnapped.

Judith Weinstein Haggai, 70, went missing from Nir Oz after the Hamas attack. Also taken hostage was her husband, Gadi Haggai, who is now reported to have died.

Alex Danzig, 75, a scholar and historian of the Holocaust, was at his home in Nir Oz, when it was attacked by Hamas. "We know for sure he was kidnapped," his son Mati told the BBC. Alex - whose older sister Edith is a Holocaust survivor - has spent the last 30 years working for Yad Vashem, Israel's Holocaust remembrance centre. His disappearance has triggered a campaign for his release, both in Israel and in Poland, the country of his birth.

Alex Danzig has spent decades educating people about the Holocaust

Itzhk Elgarat, 68, was kidnapped at the same time as Alex Danzig, his brother Danny Elgert told Israel's Kan 11 TV station, adding that he had tracked his brother's phone to the border with Gaza.

Gadi Moses, 79, was also abducted during the same attack on Nir Oz, according to relatives and the Israeli aid agency where he worked as an agricultural expert. Efrat Katz, his partner, was initially thought to have been captured as well, but she was later found dead, the Times of Israel reported. Efrat was the mother of Doron Asher, who was taken hostage and later released with her two daughters. Ravid Katz, 51, Doron Asher's brother, was originally thought to have been taken hostage from Nir Oz, but on 28 November his family confirmed that he had been killed on 7 October.

Nimrod Cohen, 19, had studied software engineering in high school, according to reports. After he was kidnapped, his father was invited to meet Pope Francis in Rome along with other hostages' families.

Tsachi Idan, 51, was last seen by his wife, Gali, as he was taken away by Hamas gunmen. Their family had been ambushed in their safe room in Nahal Oz. Their ordeal was live-streamed by Hamas. Their eldest child, Maayan - who had just turned 18 - was shot dead, Gali told the BBC.

Yarden Bibas, 34, was abducted from Nir Oz. His wife, Shiri, and their two young children, Ariel and Kfir, were also taken hostage, but on 29 November, Hamas claimed they had been killed in an Israeli air strike while in captivity. The Israeli government has said it is checking the claim.

Ronen Engel, 54, was taken from Kibbutz Nir Oz along with his wife, Karina Engelbert, 51, and their two daughters, Mika, 18 and Yuval, 11. On 1 December, the organisation representing the families said he had been murdered. Karina, Mika and Yuval were released on 27 November.

Karina Ariev, a 19-year-old soldier, was serving at an army base near Gaza when she was kidnapped. Her sister Alexandra told the BBC she heard shooting as Karina called her during the attack, and later saw a video showing Karina being taken away in a vehicle.

Karina Ariev was at the Nahal Oz military base, which was among the first to be attacked

Ofer Kalderon, 53, was taken by Hamas from Nir Oz. On 27 November his two children, Erez, 12, and Sahar, 16, were released. Two other relatives, 80-year-old Carmela Dan and her granddaughter, Noya, 12, were also believed to have been taken, but Israeli authorities later announced they had been found dead.

Yoram Metzger, 80, was a resident of Nir Oz. He has diabetes and broke his hip six months ago, his daughter-in-law said. Yoram's wife Tamar was released on 28 November.

Nadav Popplewell, 51, and his mother Channah were taken hostage by Hamas, said Channah's daughter Ayelet Svatitzky, who was speaking to them on the phone when the gunmen burst in. She said the captors sent pictures of her two relatives, who both have diabetes, with armed men in the background. Channah has now been released.

Omri Miran, 46, was abducted after his family opened the door to their secure shelter to an Israeli child, who said he would be killed otherwise. Omri's wife, Lishay Lavi, said she saw him being taken away in handcuffs with three other hostages from Nahal Oz.

Liri Elbag, 18, had just started military training as an Army lookout near the Gaza border when Hamas attacked, her father Eli told the Associated Press. Eli said he saw her in a video circulated later by Hamas, crowded with others on the back of a military truck which had been seized by the gunmen.

Lior Rudaeff, 61, was taken from Nir Yitzhak during the attack. His family have heard nothing from him since then.

Short presentational grey line

A number of people are believed to have been abducted from the Supernova music festival in southern Israel. Among them:

Shlomi Ziv, 40, was part of the security detail at the festival and was initially in contact with his sisters as the attack unfolded, according to an interview with The Times of Israel. A few weeks later the family learned he was officially considered to be a hostage, the report says.

Alexander Lobanov, 32, is a Russian-Israeli citizen who was kidnapped at the festival.

Ori Danino, 25, is reported to have got away from the festival in his car, but it's believed he was captured after turning back in an attempt to save some people he had met there.

Almog Sarusi, 26, was kidnapped from the music festival and his partner Shahar Gindi was killed, according to Israeli media. Almog's father, Yigal, was among the relatives of hostages who met with Israel's prime minister in October.

Omer Shem Tov, 21, called his parents as he was running away from gunfire and managed to get into a friend's car. His parents, Shelly and Malki Shem Tov, told Israeli media they lost contact with their son and the live location on his phone showed he was beyond the border in Gaza.

Idan Shtivi, 28, an environmental sciences student, was attending the festival to take pictures at music and yoga workshops being held by friends. He escaped the site in his car but was attacked by Hamas along the route. The bodies of two of his passengers were found, and his family told the Jerusalem Post they suspect he was kidnapped.

Yosef Ohana, 24, had been at the festival with a friend, who told his mother he and Yosef had remained to help people escape the gunfire before running themselves. Yosef was last seen hiding under a car, and Israeli authorities have visited his mother to say he was kidnapped.

Andrei Kozlov, 27, a Russian who moved to Israel in 2022, is missing from the Supernova festival, where he was working as a security guard. His mother told the De Taly publication the family was told by the IDF on October 26 that he was being held hostage.

Elyakim Libman, 23, was working as a security guard at the festival. In a Facebook post his father Eliyahu Libman said another guard told him his son had helped rescue others before trying to escape. He was last seen trying to help two badly-injured women.

Noa Argamani, a Chinese-born Israeli citizen, was also kidnapped from the festival. Video footage - verified by her father Yaakov Argamani to Israel's Channel 12 - shows the 25-year-old being taken away on the back of a motorbike screaming, "Don't kill me!" Her boyfriend Avinatan Or, 30, also appears in the video being marched away from her by Hamas, the Times of Israel reported.

Eden Yerushalmi's family say they were told she had been taken hostage

Eden Yerushalmi, 24, called her family during Hamas's attack on the festival, her sister May told CBS News. The family say they were subsequently informed by the IDF that Eden had been abducted.

Chanan Yablonka, 42, is a father-of-two from Tel Aviv. According to reports, he attended the festival with friends and was due to celebrate his birthday a few days after the attacks.

Jonathan Samerano, 21, has been missing since 7am on the morning of the festival. His family have been told to presume he is being held in Gaza, Israeli media reported.

Guy Gilboa-Dalal was filmed in captivity in Gaza, his family say

Guy Gilboa-Dalal, 22, attended the festival with his brother. Guy appears in a hostage video that his family say confirms he is in Gaza.

Maxim Kharkin's mother described speaking to him on the morning of 7 October

Maxim Kharkin is aged 35 and a Russian speaker, his mother told Russian media. She added that he had called her at 07:00 on the morning of the attack.

Elkana Bohbot was seen in a video posted by Hamas

Elkana Bohbot, 34, had gone to the party with friends and, before losing contact, he spoke to his wife and mother telling them he was helping to evacuate the wounded, the Times of Israel reported. Hours later, his family found a video of him posted online by Hamas, which has been seen by BBC Verify.

Rom Braslavski, 19, was working on security for the festival. According to an account published by Hostages and Missing Families Forum, he was trying to rescue an injured person in the attack when he was caught in a volley of fire. He has not been heard from since.

Omer Wenkert, 22, a restaurant manager, sent a message to his family to say he was going to a safe shelter but then lost contact, his father Shai Wenkert told the BBC's Today Programme. Shai Wenkert said he had seen footage of his son in captivity, including a photo of him handcuffed and wearing only underwear.

Evyatar David, 23, was at the festival and on the morning of the attacks, described fleeing from gunfire before losing contact with the outside world, his brother says. Later, his family say, Evyatar's sister posted on Instagram appealing for information about his whereabouts. She then received a text from an unknown number, which contained video footage of Evyatar handcuffed on the floor of a dark room. According to Israel's foreign ministry he is being held captive by Hamas in Gaza.

Eitan Mor, 23, lives in Jerusalem, and was working as a security guard at the festival, the Times of Israel said. He reportedly texted his uncle after Hamas arrived and was last seen with a friend bringing others to safety.

Alon Ohel, 22, a Serbian citizen, took refuge in a shelter after the festival came under attack, his family say. They have seen footage of him being dragged away after a grenade attack.

Almog Meir Jan, 21, tried to flee the festival. He and a friend made it to the friend's car but only managed to drive a short distance before being forced to stop. Almog's family say they have seen a hostage video in which he appears.

Inbar Heiman, a student aged 21, was seen by two young Israeli men being taken away from the festival on a motorcycle. Hamas have released a video in which she is seen very briefly.

Hersh Goldberg-Polin, 23, a dual US-Israeli citizen, was badly injured in the attack, his family told the BBC. Eyewitness accounts say he was seen being forced onto a white pick-up truck - the last-known signal from his phone came from just inside Gaza.

Segev Kalfon, 26, was running away from the festival, across the highway, when he was captured by Hamas, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

Orion Hernandez Radoux, 30, from Mexico, attended the festival with his girlfriend, Shani Louk. He has not been seen since. The Sun newspaper says it has seen threatening messages written in Arabic sent from his phone. Shani, a German citizen, was initially thought to be among those seized. But on 30 October, her mother Ricarda told German media that the family had been informed by Israeli military of her death following DNA identification.

Romi Lesham Gonen, 23, was on the phone to her mother as she tried to escape from the Supernova festival. Merav Leshem Gonan has recounted a conversation in which her daughter begged for help after being shot. ABC News reports that Romi's phone is now in Gaza.

Bar Kuperstein, 21, last spoke to his family early on the morning of 7 October, as the attack unfolded. Later the same day, his family say they identified him in a video of Israeli prisoners, posted by Hamas. Since then, they say they have had no further information.

Eliya Cohen, 26, was hiding with his girlfriend Ziv from the attack, when Ziv felt him being pulled up and driven away by the gunmen, Eliya's mother has told the video initiative #BringThemHomeNow. The family then found a photo of Eliya in Gaza, the Times of Israel reported.

Amit Buskila, 28, from Ashdod, was last heard of making a call to her uncle, Shimon, as Hamas overran the festival. Her family say they have now been told by the government that she is being held in Gaza.

Short presentational grey line

Carmel Gat, 39, is Jordan's sister-in-law, and also was seen by her father being taken by gunmen from Kibbutz Be'eri, Haaretz newspaper reported. She has not been heard from since.

Ohad Yahalomi, 49, was abducted from Nir Oz, along with his 12-year-old son, Eitan, who was released during the November ceasefire.

Dror Or, 48, was seen by a neighbour being dragged out of his home in Be'eri, according to their nephew Emmanuel Besorai, along with his son and daughter. On Saturday 25 November Dror's son Noam, 17, and daughter Alma, 13, were released from captivity. The body of Yonat, 50 - Dror's wife and the children's mother - was identified among the 120 people murdered at the kibbutz, Yonat's brother told the Guardian newspaper.

Tal Shoham, 38, was taken from Kibbutz Be'eri. His wife Adi, also 38, her mother Dr Shoshan Haran, 67, were released by Hamas on 25 November, along with the couple's children Nave, eight, and Yahel, three. Dr Haran's husband, Avshalom - an economist and dual German/Israeli citizen - was killed on 7 October.

Sagui Dekel-Chen, 35, an American-Israeli citizen, has been missing since Hamas's attack on Nir Oz, his father Jonathan told the BBC. He said his son was not found among the dead and the "only reasonable explanation" is that he was taken to Gaza.

Sagui Dekel-Chen's father has not heard from him since Hamas attacked the kibbutz where he lived

Thailand's ambassador to Israel says 26 of its citizens were taken hostage, 23 of whom have now been released.

Those still being held are believed to include Watchara Sriuan, 32. His mother, Viewwaew, told the Thaiger news site that the family had been informed he was being held captive.

Kiattisak "Top" Patee and a Mr Pongtorn (no first name given) have also been named by the Thai foreign ministry as hostages.

Hostages who have died

A number of other people thought to have been held hostage are now confirmed to have died, either during the 7 October attack or while in captivity.

On 16 December, the Israeli military expressed "deep remorse" after soldiers mistakenly killed three hostages in northern Gaza who had escaped from their captors. They were named as Yotam Haim, 28, Samer Talalka, 22, and Alon Shamriz, 26.

The death of Tamir Adar, 38, was announced on 5 January by the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum. Other hostages recently confirmed to have died include Gadi Haggai, Ron Scherman, Nik Beizer, Tal Chaimi, an Israeli-Romanian citizen aged 41, Joshua Mollel, a 19-year-old Tanzanian student, 27-year-old Eden Zecharya, and 36-year-old Ziv Dado.

Other fatalities include Sahar Baruch, 25, Dror Kaplun, 68, Aviv Atzili, 49, Arye Zalmanovich, 85, Ronen Engel, 54, Maya Goren, 56, Guy Iluz, 26, Ofir Tzarfati, 27, Ofra Keider, 70, and Eliyahu Margalit, 75.

The bodies of 19-year-old soldier, Noa Marciano, and 65-year-old Yehudit Weiss were found by Israeli troops in buildings close to Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.

Hostages whose death has been reported, but not confirmed, include Shiri Bibas, 32, and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir.

Research by Jamie Ryan and Emma Pengelly

More on Israel-Gaza war

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Jamie Webb is described as "a true British hero from Handforth" on the memorial's plaque

A tree memorial which commemorates a British soldier who was killed in Afghanistan in 2013 has been unveiled.

Lance Corporal Jamie Webb, 24, of Mercian Regiment was killed on 26 March 2013 after his patrol base was attacked by insurgents.

More than 200 people, including veterans, attended a service for him at Handforth War Memorial.

A plaque said he was a "a true British hero from Handforth" and his resilience and kindness made him a role model.

Mr Webb had returned to active duty after recovering from two brain operations following an assault in the UK.

He had joined the army when he was 18 after attending Wilmslow High School and Macclesfield College in Cheshire.

A plaque was unveiled in Mr Webb's memory

His first posting was in Northern Ireland and he was also deployed to Iraq.

While on leave for a few days in the UK, he was assaulted and had to undergo emergency brain surgery.

Having recovered, he returned to active duty.

Mr Webb was then deployed twice to Afghanistan, working as a Point Man, an Intelligence Analyst and Section Second-in-Command and was killed during his second seven-month tour.

A truck bomb was driven into a perimeter wall at Patrol Base Folad in Helmand province and attacked the camp.

Mr Webb died from his injuries after being flown to hospital.

More than 1,000 people attended his funeral in Wilmslow in 2013.

Lieutenant Colonel Phil Kimber, Mr Webb's commanding officer, previously told the BBC he was "a real character, a totally professional soldier and a great friend to many".

He said he was "an outstanding professional; bright, engaging and hugely talented".

"He was exactly the type of man you wanted around. Always with a smile on his face, always willing to engage in some witty and mischievous banter, he really did lift the morale of all around him."

Why not follow BBC North West on Facebook, X and Instagram? You can also send story ideas to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk
Millions of Americans believe that the 2020 presidential election was stolen. They think Donald Trump won by a landslide in 2020 and lost only because of widespread voter fraud. Some of the people who hold these views are my relatives, neighbors and professional associates. Because I reject these claims, it can be difficult to talk to those who accept them.

Often, we avoid the topic of politics. But as a political science scholar, I expect that as the 2024 election gets closer, conversations about 2020 will become more common, more important and more unavoidable.

So, what does someone like me, who concludes that the last presidential election was legitimately won by Joe Biden, say to those who think that Trump was the actual winner? Here are a few of the questions I raise in my own conversations about 2020.

This is not what democracy looks like. AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana

Polls and pollsters

I usually begin by asking about polls. Polls and pollsters are often wrong about close elections, and many prominent pollsters tilt toward Democrats. They predicted a Hillary Clinton victory in 2016.

But even those polls and pollsters would be unlikely to have missed a 2020 landslide for Trump  or Biden. Unless, of course, as was the case, the landslide did not exist.

Recent political polling has been less accurate than many people expect. And all polls have margins of error: They provide an imperfect picture of public sentiment in a closely divided nation.

That said, even polls with a sizable margin of error should have been able to find a Trump landslide in 2020  but they didnt, because there wasnt one. The last American presidential landslide, Reagan in 1984, was clearly seen in preelection polling.

If millions of fraudulent votes were cast in 2020, reputable pollsters would have discovered a discrepancy between their data and official election results. This would have been particularly true for the pollsters trusted by Republicans.

Trump himself has often praised the Rasmussen polling organization. But just before Election Day 2020, Rasmussen reported that Trump could win a narrow victory in the Electoral College only if he swept all the toss-up states  a daunting task. Rasmussen found no evidence of a forthcoming Trump landslide and projected that Biden would get 51% of the national popular vote. Thats almost exactly the percentage he received in the official count.

Where is the congressional investigation of 2020 voter fraud?

The House Republicans have not convened a special committee to investigate the 2020 election. Such a committee could summon witnesses, hold high-profile hearings and issue a detailed report. It could explain to the American people exactly what happened in the presidential election, how the election was stolen and who was responsible. If the evidence collected justified it, they could make criminal referrals to the Justice Department. The Democrats did all of these things in connection to the events of Jan. 6, 2021.

What could be more important to the American public than a full and fair account of 2020 voter fraud? Donald Trump calls it one of the greatest crimes in the history of our country. Yet the Republicans on Capitol Hill have not authorized a major public and professional investigation of those alleged crimes. Perhaps, as former U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney claims, most Republican members of Congress know that Trumps statements about massive voter fraud are false.

It would be hard, even for Congress, to investigate something that did not happen.

When the big lie goes to court

Like Congress, or professional pollsters, the judicial system has ways to expose election fraud. Immediately after the 2020 election, the Trump campaign went to court more than 60 times to challenge voting procedures and results.

They lost in all but one case.

Related lawsuits have also been decided against those who claimed that the 2020 election was stolen.

For instance, Fox News was sued for defamation because of broadcasts linking Dominion voting machines to allegations of a rigged 2020 election. Fox, a powerful and wealthy corporation, could have taken the case to trial but didnt. Instead, it paid three-quarters of a billion dollars to settle the case.

In another case, Rudy Giuliani has been ordered to pay $148 million to Georgia election workers he falsely accused of misconduct. More civil suits are pending.

Trumps claim of a win in 2020  known by its critics as The Big Lie  has regularly and repeatedly lost in court. If there were any truth to what Trump and his supporters say about the 2020 election, shouldnt there be lawyers who present effective evidence and judges who give it credence? So far, there are not.

Democracy in America?

Hard conversations about election integrity often come around to a more fundamental question: Do we still have democracy in America?

I think we do. Our democracy is fragile and under greater stress than at any time since the Civil War. But it is still a democracy. The rule of law may be slow, but it prevails. Harassed and threatened election officials do their jobs with courage and integrity. Joe Biden, the official winner of the 2020 election, sits in the White House.

Supporters of Donald Trump are likely to think that the U.S. is not a democracy. In their beliefs about how America works, millions of illegal votes are cast and counted on a regular basis; news is fake; violence is justified to halt fraudulent government proceedings; and its OK for a presidential candidate to want to be a dictator  if only for a day.

In a functioning democracy, everyone has constitutionally protected rights to hold and express their political opinions. But I believe we should all be willing to discuss and evaluate the evidence that supports, or fails to support, those opinions.

There is no verified evidence of widespread voter fraud in 2020. You cant find it in the polls. You wont get it from Congress. Claims of election wrongdoing have failed in the courts. I sometimes ask my friends what I am missing. Maybe whats really missing is a readiness for the hard political conversations that I believe must be had in the 2024 election season.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and analysis to help you make sense of our complex world.

It was written by: Robert A. Strong, University of Virginia.

Read more:



Robert A. Strong does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
After the terrorist attack in Crocus City Hall, the aggressor country Russia has started talking about bringing back death penalty once again. Russian political analyst Olga Kurnosova is convinced that if such a decision is made, only the Kremlin will benefit from it.

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She spoke about this on the air of OBOZ.TALK. She noted that the head of the Russian Constitutional Court, Valery Zorik, has already said that it is impossible to return the death penalty without amending the Russian Constitution.

"Therefore, if the State Duma and the Federation Council follow this path now, it is simply further evidence that the modern Russian dictatorship is trampling not only democracy and human rights and freedoms but also its own legislation. It means that the laws are not written for them. It means they not only interpret them as they please but simply ignore them, including the Constitution," Kurnosova said.

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She added that this would be a "ticking time bomb" because anyone can be charged with "extremism" in Russia. For example, the arsonist of a military commissariat.

"And, of course, this is done to intimidate those people who categorically disagree with what is happening in Russia today," the expert stated.

In her opinion, the current rules of censorship no longer work, which is why fear reigns in the Kremlin. On the other hand, it is a way to divert the attention of citizens from what is happening in the Kursk and Belgorod regions, in particular, from the raids by Russian volunteers.

"Now everyone has forgotten about it. Now everyone is talking only about the terrorist attack. They will ask who benefits from it. And we will realize that no one else benefits from this except the Kremlin," Kurnosova emphasized.

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Currently, 43% of the Russian population is in favor of reintroducing the death penalty, but, according to the political expert, this is very little.

She is convinced that world leaders must understand that the only way to achieve a secure peace for the entire planet is the political destruction of the Kremlin dictator Vladimir Putin.

"There is no other way. And such a political decision must be made because it will simplify many issues. In the end, if the Russian elites realize that there is such a solution, it may be much easier for them to decide to make a coup. I'm not even talking about the fact that it will be easier for the same volunteer groups to act if such a political decision is made. Therefore, it is very important to understand this simple thing," Kurnosova summarized.

As reported, on the evening of March 22, 2024, the largest terrorist attack in the history of modern Russia took place in the Crocus City business center, killing more than 130 people.

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Four victims have so far been identified with two bodies recovered from the river (via Facebook)

Four of the six construction workers presumed dead after a massive container ship collided with Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge have so far been identified.

Hours after the cargo ship Dali slammed into the bridge around 1.30am ET on Tuesday, 26 March, causing its total collapse into the Patapsco River, family members named Miguel Luna and Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval as being among the workers who were on the bridge at the time disaster struck.

Officials announced the following day that they had recovered two bodies found inside a submerged vehicle, identifying them as fellow construction workers Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera.

The missing men were hard-working, humble men, according to a fellow employee of Brawner Builders, which had hired construction workers to refill potholes when the tragic incident occurred.

By Tuesday evening, the missing workers were presumed dead.

The company is in mourning and its a terrible, unanticipated tragedy, the companys executive vice president told the Baltimore Banner.

After days of little success in finding the workers, the US Coast Guard said the search is shifting to a salvage recovery operation.

Heres what we know about the victims of the Baltimore bridge collapse so far:

Miguel Luna

Miguel Luna was the first of six victims who went missing when the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed on Tuesday to be named.

Miguel Luna is one of the missing workers and has been presumed dead (Supplied)

Luna is one of the men who is now presumed dead, his wife Maria del Carmen Castellon told NBC sister station Telemundo 44 in Spanish.

After the bridge collapsed Ms Castellon said family members like her were able to get into the restricted zone while they desperately waited to hear news of their loved ones.

They only tell us that we have to wait, that for now, they cant give us information, she said earlier in the day.

[We feel] devastated, devastated because our heart is broken because we dont know if theyve rescued them yet. Were just waiting to hear any news.

One relative of Lunas also told Sky News they were distraught as they waited to hear news, and that some family members were taken to a location in Baltimore by police, where they could be with families of the other missing people.

His loved ones reportedly said he is from El Salvador and has children.

Luna was also identified by the non-profit organisation Casa, which provides services around Baltimore and other areas to immigrant communities.

Miguel Luna, from El Salvador, left at 6:30 p.m. Monday evening for work and since, has not come home. He is a husband, a father of three, and has called Maryland his home for over 19 years, Casa wrote in a statement.

One of Lunas children, Marvin Luna, told The Washington Post that he knew his father was working on the Key Bridge overnight but did not know it collapsed until one of his friends called him up and said, The bridge is  gone.

Marvin then called his fathers phone, but there was no reply.

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval

Another of the workers missing and presumed dead since the bridge collapse in Baltimore has been named as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, according to Martin Suazo, his brother.

Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval (Supplied)

Martin, who lives in Honduras, told CNN that his family over in Baltimore called him to tell him that his brother was missing after the container ship crashed into the bridge.

He is originally from Azacualpa in Honduras and had been living in the United States for more than 18 years. He was married and had an 18-year-old son and a five-year-old daughter.

His brother told the outlet that Sandoval was an entrepreneur who had started his own maintenance company, venturing to the US in search of a better life, Martin told the outlet.

In an interview with Honduran newspaper La Prensa, Martin said in Spanish, What were living is inexplicable. We wish it wasnt real. Were dismayed, especially the agony of not knowing when theyre going to find the body.

My brother was a generous man, the brother told NPR.

He gave a lot back to his community in Honduras, Martin said. While working in the US, Sandoval sent money back to Honduras  enough to open up a hotel which provided jobs for his town, including his family. On top of this, Martin told the outlet that his brother helped those with disabilities, paid for neighbours medicine and doctors visits, and he even sponsored a youth soccer league.

One of eight siblings, the construction worker was described by another one of his brothers, Carlos Suazo Sandoval, as a joyful person who had a vision.

We still have faith until this moment, God grant the miracle, it would be beautiful, Carlos told CNN en Espanol on Wednesday. We still have hope, I know that time is our worst enemy.

The Suazo family are now focusing on having Sandovals body found, and if they do, they plan to repatriate the body to Honduras, Carlos said.

The Honduran Embassy told Martin Suazo that it would work with him to bring his brothers body back to the country for funeral arrangements.

Both Sandoval and Luna were members of Casa, the organisation said in a statement: Our hearts break knowing that Miguel and Maynor were part of the six essential workers who were on the bridge when it came tumbling down...They had a dream of a better future for themselves and their families and made the brave decision to travel to this country for a brighter future.

In a time when there is so much hatred against the immigrant community, we look to the story of Maynor and Miguel who built bridges to connect communities, not building walls to divide them. Today and always we honor them and their sacrifices, the group wrote.

Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes

Two bodies have been recovered from the Patapsco River after the deadly collapse of the bridge, officials announced on Wednesday.

Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, of Baltimore was one of the men discovered by divers who spotted a submerged red pickup truck in around 25 feet of water.

Fuentes, originally from Mexico, was a construction worker, found trapped inside the vehicle alongside Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera.

The tragic announcement was made at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, held by personnel from the US Coast Guard, the Maryland Department of Transportation and state Governor Wes Moore.

One of the victims was identified by a drivers license in his pocket, another by a fingerprint, Colonel Roland L Butler, superintendent of the Maryland Department of State Police said.

Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera

Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, 26, of Dundalk, Maryland, also a construction worker, was found trapped inside the submerged pickup truck alongside Fuentes, officials confirmed.

Pima Castillo, Cabreras sister-in-law told CNN that he had been working at Brawner Builders for at least three years and loved his job.

Cabrera, from Guatemala, was not married and did not have any children, his sister-in-law said.

The construction workers cousin, Marlon Castillo, also told CNN that Cabrera came to the US to follow his dream and help his mother.

Unfortunately, he was in a place where no one imagined what was going to happen, Marlon Castillo told the outlet.

Dorlian Cabrera (via Facebook)

Hard-working, humble men

Members of a construction crew, employed by contractor Brawner Builders, were refilling potholes when the incident occurred, officials said.

Brawner Builders employee Jesus Campos told The Baltimore Banner that all of the victims were all hard-working, humble men.

Those presumed deceased are from Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, authorities said.

A search and rescue mission for all six missing construction workers was called off on Tuesday night by the Coast Guard after it said there was no hope of finding them alive (via REUTERS)

Guatemalas Ministry of Foreign Affairs previously said that among the unaccounted-for workers were two Guatemalans in a statement. One person is believed to be a 26-year-old from San Luis, Peten and another a 35-year-old from Camotan, Chiquimula; the ministry did not release their names.

The victims of the bridge collapse also include Mexican nationals, according to Rafael Laveaga, Chief of the Consular Section of Mexicos Embassy in Washington, CNN said.

However, Mr Laveaga did not specify how many of the missing people were from Mexico. The Mexican Embassy also posted on X saying that Mexican citizens were among the workers.

Miguel Luna is a father of three (Supplied)

Mr Campos told NBC that he had been working on the bridge only a month before this weeks tragic incident.

It couldve been me, Mr Campos said. Around a month ago I was working on the bridge we had been moved to the day shift and they went at night.

However, he believes that nothing could have been done to save the workers in time and evacuate them.

It happened in the blink of an eye It couldnt be done, he added.

Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, told the Baltimore Banner that the company is in mourning and its a terrible, unanticipated tragedy.

The Coast Guard announced at 7.30pm on 26 March that the search had been paused, and would resume the next morning as a recovery effort with divers being used to search for bodies.

Id like to announce tonight that based on the length of time that weve gone in this search, the extensive search efforts weve put into it, the water temperature, that at this point we do not believe that were going to find any of these individuals still alive, said Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath.

Mr Butler said on Wednesday evening that agencies were transitioning from a recovery mode to salvage recovery operation.

In the day since the tragedy, the community has shown an outpouring of support for the loved ones of the workers. Fundraisers to support the victims families have so far raised more than $200,000.

A GoFundMe page, organised by the volunteer group Latino Racial Justice Circle, explained that the cash would be distributed directly to the families of the victims of the bridge collapse. The organisers paused their fundraiser to start giving the $98,000 in funds to the victims.

On 4pm on 27 March, the Baltimore City Mayors Office of Immigrant Affairs set up another fundraiser, which has collected contributions from 1,529 donations totalling more than $114,000 as of Thursday afternoon.
The woman said she thought she would be safe accepting a ride.

Now 60, she testified Tuesday, on the second day of the LJ Harris trial, about an alleged rape from Aug. 29, 2004.

Harris, 43, is charged with two counts of rape and single counts of attempted rape and felonious assault. The accuser, who was 40 in 2004, took the witness stand for two hours in Richland County Common Pleas Court.

The case had been cold for two decades until last spring, when there was a hit on a national database that contains the DNA profiles of convicted offenders.

The accuser said she lived in Wooster in 2004 and came to Mansfield to attend a memorial service for her father-in-law. The woman said she stayed overnight with her estranged husband on Wood Street, then stormed out when she found him on top of her, wanting sex.

The woman testified she was walking to her sister-in-law's residence on Johns Avenue in the early morning when a man pulled up in a white Lexus trimmed in gold. She was clad in pajamas.

"It was a nice car, the gentleman was clean-cut," the woman testified. "I thought it was OK to accept a ride from him."

She said they drove in the right direction before the man, whom she identified as Harris, pulled over and demanded oral sex.

"I told him, 'No, I'm married. I don't do that,''' the woman testified.

Mansfield police Detective Sgt. Jered Kingsborough testified Tuesday in Richland County Common Pleas Court in the trial of LJ Harris.

She said Harris then punched her in the face.

"This is for real," the woman said she realized.

Accuser testifies

The woman said Harris went at her face with a straight razor, which ended up cutting her thumb.

As she testified, Harris shook his head in disagreement.

The woman said Harris told her to keep her head down and punched her in the back of the head every time she looked up.

She said Harris pulled over in an alley near Sheridan Avenue and told her to get in the back seat.

"That's where he started raping me," the accuser said. "I was being violated, taken advantage of."

She said Harris raped her both vaginally and anally.

"It was very painful. I was praying for him not to kill me," the woman said as she started to cry.

"He was hitting me in the back of the head while he was raping me," she said.

The woman said Harris wiped her with a housecoat and grabbed her by the back of the neck.

"He started walking me behind this old abandoned garage," the woman said. "I was doing my last prayer."

Noting she ran track in high school, she said she decided to run away. She was naked. The woman said Harris ran toward his car.

She later encountered a teenage boy and two teen girls. The boy gave her his T-shirt to cover up.

The teens offered to take her to the hospital, but she wanted to go back to her husband's apartment.

"I was ashamed. I just wanted to get inside my husband's house," she testified.

Woman initially did not want to go to hospital

When they arrived at the apartment building, the outside door was locked. The woman then relented and went to the hospital, where she underwent a sexual assault examination.

"I was so ashamed. The police came," the woman said. "I didn't want anybody to know what happened to me."

The nurse examiner said as long as the woman had not showered or bathed, there was a chance to recover DNA evidence.

Assistant Prosecutor Olivia Boyer asked the woman how the incident has affected her.

"It changed my whole life," she said. "By November, I started using drugs."

She said she turned to crack cocaine to forget. The woman said she had nightmares and was afraid to leave the house. When she did, she dressed down to avoid attention.

"By January (2005) I was in jail for the first time in my life," she said.

The woman was in and out of jail and prison for several years before finding sobriety in 2014.

"Crack cocaine robbed me of my joy, my happiness, my family," she said.

She became sober when she decided she wanted her life back more than she wanted drugs.

The woman was surprised to hear from Mansfield police Sgt. Jered Kingsborough from the detective bureau last year. Now living in South Carolina, she was hesitant to relive the case after rebuilding her life.

Eventually, she said she realized she had a chance to put everything behind her. She identified Harris from a photo array even though his hair was different.

"When I saw it, cold chills ran over my body," the woman said. "Everything came crashing back down on me, and I relived it."

Defense attorney questions woman about criminal record

On cross-examination, defense attorney Jennifer Harmon focused on her criminal record. Common Pleas Judge Brent Robinson said she could refer to the woman's record to assess her credibility.

Harmon questioned if the woman's husband could have been the one involved considering he wanted to have sex with her.

"Did your husband punch you in the back of the head?" Harmon asked, to which the woman replied "no."

Harmon also referenced the woman's felony record, which includes trafficking in drugs and tampering with evidence. She asked her when she began running drugs.

The witness said that is when she began using crack cocaine.

On redirect, she said she had never experienced such pain after consensual sex. Rebecca Schulte, a retired nurse from then-MedCentral Hospital, performed the sexual assault exam. She testified the woman had tears to her genitalia.

Schulte said there was semen on the back of the woman's right leg.

Maggie Hergenrather, a DNA technician for the police department's crime lab, tested the semen. She said the likelihood of anyone other than Harris contributing the DNA was 1 in 307 billion. Earth's population is 8.1 billion.

Kingsborough, the lead investigator in the case, was the state's final witness. He described the accuser identifying Harris from a photo array.

"She slammed it (folder) shut," Kingsborough said. "She had a look of fear and anxiety. It's the most emphatic (reaction) I've had to date."

Kingsborough said Harris seemed confused when he contacted him some 19 years after the alleged rape. He was unable to meet with the defendant until Harris was arrested, when he collected mouth swabs for DNA evidence.

The trial will resume Thursday with the defense presenting its case.

mcaudill@gannett.com

419-521-7219

X: @MarkCau32059251

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Accuser testifies about 2004 rape allegations in Richland County Court
Three teenage boys have been arrested after items were thrown from a derelict building in Harrogate during a four-hour stand-off.

Officers were called to Parliament Street after reports of vandalism in the early hours of Wednesday, with objects thrown from top floor windows.

Fire extinguishers, poles and a box of glass bottles were among the items left smashed across the street below.

The boys, aged 15, 16 and 17, were held on suspicion of burglary and affray.

They remain in police custody for questioning, North Yorkshire Police said.

Emergency services were first called to the scene at about 02:00 GMT, with the road closed off to traffic and police negotiators also attending.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service reported that crews had responded to reports of "a large number of youths inside an unsafe derelict building" above a row of shops and restaurants.

The incident concluded at about 06:30 GMT, police said, with glass and debris cleared from the road by highways teams.

Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news@bbc.co.uk.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed after a container ship collided with it.

Several entities could be on the hook to foot the bill in the aftermath of the disaster.

The maritime insurance industry will likely be saddled with the highest costs.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed on Tuesday after a large container ship ran into it, leading to six presumed deaths and millions of dollars in possible damage.

It's still too early to estimate the total economic impact of the disaster, but between the cost of rebuilding the decades-old bridge, compensating the victims' families, and paying out damages for disruptions to the supply chain, the eventual cost of the disaster is expected to be significant.

Who will pay to rebuild the bridge?

President Joe Biden said on Tuesday the federal government should be responsible for paying to reconstruct the damaged Francis Scott Key Bridge.

"It is my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge, and I expect Congress to support my effort," Biden said.

The bridge was built in the 1970s for about $60 million, but the cost of rebuilding it could be 10 times its original price tag, an engineering expert told Sky News.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was named for Francis Scott Key, who wrote "The Star-Spangled Banner." WilliamSherman via Getty Images

Baltimore is among the busiest ports in the nation, with more than a million shipping containers passing through each year. The collapse  which closed the port to all maritime and most road traffic until further notice  is already beginning to wreak havoc on the supply chain.

The cost of building the bridge back fast enough to offset diversions as much as possible could saddle the government with a more than $600 million bill, David MacKenzie, the chair of the engineering and architecture consultancy COWIfonden, told Sky News.

Who will pay for damages to the ship and its cargo?

The container ship, the Dali, is owned by a Singapore-based firm. The ship's charterer, Maersk, confirmed to Business Insider that vessel company Synergy Group operates the ship.

However, the companies with cargo aboard the Dali could ultimately be responsible for some of the ship's damages and cargo costs, according to Ryan Petersen, the CEO of the supply-chain-logistics company Flexport, which had two containers on the ship.

The Dali was carrying 330 containers that must now be rerouted, Petersen said in an X thread.

An ancient maritime law known as "general average" dictates that companies with even a single container aboard a ship split certain damages pro rata based on the number of containers they had on board, ensuring all the stakeholders benefiting from the voyage are splitting the risk, Petersen said.

General average situations can occur when a ship is stranded or when cargo is damaged or thrown overboard to save the vessel, according to Flexport. The concept helps ensure that all parties who have a vested interest in the vessel share the cost and concern of protecting it.

It's too soon to know whether damages incurred to free the Dali in the coming days will qualify as a case of general average.

Drone footage shows the aftermath of the Dali container ship's collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on March 26. Anadolu Agency via Reuters

Who will pay for everything else?

The majority of the financial fallout is likely to lay primarily with the insurance industry, according to media reports.

Industry experts told the Financial Times that insurers could pay out losses for bridge damage, port disruption, and any loss of life.

The collapse could drive "one of the largest claims ever to hit the marine (re)insurance market," John Miklus, the president of the American Institute of Marine Underwriters, told Insurance Business.

He told the outlet that the loss of revenue from tolls while the bridge is being rebuilt will be expensive, as will any liability claims from deaths or injuries.

The Dali is covered by the Britannia Steam Ship Insurance Association Ltd., known as Britannia P&I Club, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence.

In a statement to Business Insider, Britannia said it was "working closely with the ship manager and relevant authorities to establish the facts and to help ensure that this situation is dealt with quickly and professionally."

Britannia is one of 12 mutual insurers included in the International Group of P&I Clubs, which maintains more than $3 billion of reinsurance cover, sources familiar with the matter told Insurance Business.

Britannia itself is liable for the first $10 million in damages, both FT and Insurance Business reported. Whatever remains is dealt with by the wider mutual insurance group and Lloyd's of London, a reinsurance market in the UK, the FT reported.

Update: March 28, 2024  This story has been updated to include additional information about general average and clarify that it is too soon to know whether general average will apply in the case of the Dali.

Read the original article on Business Insider
FILE - Members of the 101st Airborne Division take up positions outside Central High School in Little Rock, Ark., Sept. 26, 1957. The troops were on duty to enforce integration at the school. On Monday, March 25, 2024, a teacher and two students from the school sued Arkansas over the state's ban on critical race theory and indoctrination in public schools, asking a federal judge to strike down the restrictions as unconstitutional. (AP Photo/File)

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP)  A high school teacher and two students sued Arkansas on Monday over the state's ban on critical race theory and indoctrination in public schools, asking a federal judge to strike down the restrictions as unconstitutional.

The lawsuit by the teacher and students from Little Rock Central High School, site of the historic 1957 racial desegregation crisis, stems from the state's decision last year that an Advanced Placement course on African American Studies would not count toward state credit.

The lawsuit argues the restrictions, which were among a number of education changes that Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed into law last year, violate free speech protections under the First Amendment and the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

It absolutely chills free speech and discriminates on the basis of race, the lawsuit said.

Indeed, defendants brazen attack on full classroom participation for all students in 2024 is reminiscent of the states brazen attack on full classroom participation for all students in 1957, the lawsuit said.

Arkansas and other Republican-led states in recent years have placed restrictions on how race is taught in the classroom, including prohibitions on critical race theory, an academic framework dating to the 1970s that centers on the idea that racism is embedded in the nations institutions. The theory is not a fixture of K-12 education, and Arkansas' ban does not define what would be considered critical race theory. The lawsuit argues that the definition the law uses for prohibited indoctrination is overly broad and vague.

Tennessee educators filed a similar lawsuit last year challenging that state's sweeping bans on teaching certain concepts of race, gender and bias in classroom.

Arkansas' restrictions mirror an executive order Sanders signed on her first day in office last year. The Republican governor defended the law and criticized the lawsuit.

In the state of Arkansas, we will not indoctrinate our kids and teach them to hate America or each other, Sanders said in a statement. Its sad the radical left continues to lie and play political games with our kids futures.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis blocked high schools in his state from teaching the AP African American Studies course. The College Board released the latest updated framework for the course in December, months after initial revisions prompted criticism the nonprofit was bowing to conservative backlash to the class.

Arkansas education officials last year said the AP African American studies class couldnt be part of the states advanced placement course offerings because its still a pilot program and hasnt been vetted by the state yet to determine whether it complied with the law.

Central High and the five other schools offering the class said they would continue doing so as a local elective. The class still counts toward a student's GPA.

The lawsuit is the second challenge against Sanders' LEARNS Act, which also created a new school voucher program. The Arkansas Supreme Court in October rejected a challenge to the law that questioned the Legislature's procedural vote that allowed it to take effect immediately.

"The LEARNS Act has brought much-needed reforms to Arkansas. I have successfully defended (the law) from challenges before, and I am prepared to vigorously defend it again, Republican Attorney General Tim Griffin said.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The person who torched the Weil Arcade in downtown Hillsboro will spend the next 30 years in prison after admitting to manslaughter and arson, the Washington County District Attorneys Office said.



























Rose Sunrise, who was known as Roel Leon at the time of the arrest in early 2022, broke into a business in the Weil Arcade at least twice, in December 2021 and January 2022. The first time, Sunrise stole a few items. But the second time, Sunrise set fire to the business after stealing a few more items, then watched it grow to a 4-alarm fire while recording it on a phone.

Rose Sunrise, previously known as Roel Leon, was sentenced on March 26, 2024 to 30 years in prison for arsons and manslaughter in Hillsboro in 2022. (Undated photo released by Washington County DAs Office)

The Weil Arcade was destroyed and more than 20 businesses were affected. The fire also claimed the life of Ronald Knapp, who investigators believe took shelter on the second floor on that bitterly cold night.

Sunrise set 2 more fires in cars parked outside an auto shop.

Investigators quickly zeroed in and arrested Sunrise (then known as Leon) on January 5, 2022.

On March 12, Sunrise pleaded guilty to manslaughter and burglary, plus 2 counts each of arson and criminal mischief. Judge Janelle Wipper handed down the 30-year sentence on March 26.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Swiss banks have started closing accounts for clients who have citizenship of the terrorist country Russia. Financial institutions are closing them even if they have dual citizenship.

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Roman Kudinov, managing partner of the Swiss law firm Leolex, told Vedomosti. According to him, several UBS and Credit Suisse clients with dual citizenship have faced the problem.

All of them pay taxes in Switzerland and receive no income and pay no taxes in Russia. Currently, Swiss banks are looking at any ties between their clients and Russia, says Kateryna Popova, partner of the multifamily office of the ITSWM group of companies.

In her practice this year, there was a case when, after checking transactions, one of the banks closed the account of a Swiss citizen because he had transferred several hundred euros to his mother-in-law in Russia many years ago. At the same time, he did not have a Russian passport. In addition, one Swiss bank refused to open accounts for several Israeli citizens who had retained their Russian passports, says Ivan Tikhonenok, head of banking practice at Amond & Smith.

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According to him, the banks demanded documentary evidence of renunciation of Russian citizenship in order to continue working with the firm's clients. Another bank closed an account for a client of a Russian consulting company who has Russian citizenship and a residence permit in Switzerland, a source in the company said.

The decision of some Swiss banks to close accounts of Russians with dual citizenship is due to compliance considerations, says Artem Kasumyan, a lawyer at Delcredere. He emphasized that the presence of a Russian passport makes banks spend resources on additional checks.

As previously reported, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland and the Czech Republic have called for a ban on the import of grain from Russia and Belarus to the territory of the Commonwealth. The ministers of these countries addressed this call to the European Commission, which had earlier proposed to impose a duty instead of a full embargo on Russian grain.

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Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
A woman killed in south-east London has been named as Zhe Wang by the Metropolitan Police.

Joshua Michals, 24, of Lewisham, was charged with her murder on Friday and appeared at the Old Bailey on Wednesday.

Police were called to a property in Manor Park, Hither Green, at 23:15 GMT on 20 March over reports of a stabbing.

Officers forced their way in and found an injured Ms Wang inside. The 31-year-old died at the scene.

She was a Chinese national who was studying in London, the force said.

The Met Police said that while formal identification has not taken place, her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Police believe the defendant and victim were known to each other.

Mr Michals, a US national, is next due at the Old Bailey in June, and a trial date has been set for January 2025.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hellobbclondon@bbc.co.uk
Rock Hill native and pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney is coming home.

Home it is.



Jadeveon Clowney and the #Panthers agree to terms, after one of the best seasons of his career.



Clowney recorded 9.5 sacks with the #Ravens last season.



Appears those "talks" Dan Morgan referenced yesterday went just fine. pic.twitter.com/YiIdXSf53r  DaShawn Brown (@DaShawnWSOC9) March 27, 2024

On Wednesday, the Carolina Panthers announced they had agreed to terms with the former No. 1 overall pick.

Clowney, a South Carolina Gamecocks star, is also a former Channel 9 Big 22 Player to Watch. He put up some of his best numbers with the Baltimore Ravens this past season before visiting the Panthers in mid-March. His 9.5 sacks tied a career high.

The 31-year-old went to South Pointe High School in Rock Hill.

ALSO READ: Clowney holds pro day in Columbia

The Panthers have been in search of pass rushers, especially after letting go of Brian Burns. Clowney will be a welcome addition to the Ejiro Evero-led defense.

On Friday, Clowney spoke about why now was the right time for a homecoming. In a news conference, the first word he shared was family.

Clowney also said he was trying to get fellow Rock Hill native Stephon Gilmore to join him on the Panthers.

Before I signed, I did talk to Stephon. He was like, Im trying to get them to sign me back too. And I was like, Im going to sign this contract, youre telling me youre going to pull up when I sign, youre going to come? He was like, were going to see man, itll be a lot, Clowney said.

Clowney and Gilmore both went to South Pointe and were college teammates at South Carolina.

(WATCH BELOW: Panthers sending star pass rusher Brian Burns to NY Giants)




Morrisons has launched a limited-edition hot cross bun flavoured cheese which is available from deli counters for Easter - MIKE BUCK

A hot cross bun flavoured cheese has lost the symbolism of Easter, Christians have warned.

Morrisons has launched a new cheddar for the religious holiday, which is flavoured with traditional bun ingredients of cinnamon, blueberries and raisins.

The Hot Cross Bun Cheese, which is being sold for 1.25 per 100g at the supermarkets deli counters, has provoked bemusement among the Christian community.

Christian Concern said the new product loses some of the symbolism of the buns, which are said to represent the death of Christ.

Tim Dieppe, the head of public policy, said: Im surprised and amazed. You lose some of the symbolism. I dont think I would buy it.

The idea of a hot cross bun is you have got a cross and all the various spices, which represent the suffering on the cross.

I dont really understand how you can turn all that into cheese.

Distributed to the poor

Hot cross buns are decorated with a cross typically made from flour paste, which is said to represent the cross on which Christ died.

Some say the spices represent those that were used to embalm Christ after his death.

They were supposedly distributed to the poor at the gates of St Albans Abbey from 1361.

Dr Gavin Ashenden, who served as chaplain to Queen Elizabeth II at St Jamess Palace for almost 10 years, said Morrisons new cheese, which does not feature a cross, was erasing a Christian symbol.

He said: Why do they always have to pick on Christian symbols? Its not just this, its also Cadburys gesture eggs. Its as if anything Christian is being erased.

What we are dealing with is the decay of Christendom and Christian culture.

We have been told over the last 50 years that we live in a multicultural society, where everyone has a pitch, but that is wrong. It is everyone but Christians.

Dr Ashenden previously said supermarkets and restaurants were doing the devils work by defiling hot cross buns with chocolate, caramel and cheese fillings.

Earlier this month, Tesco and Asda were accused of playing fast and loose with culinary tradition by serving hot cross buns with clotted cream and jam.

Ned Palmer, 51, a cheese historian, said retailers should not mess with hot cross buns and described Morrisons new cheese as adulterous.

A step too far

The thought of a hot cross bun cheese is making my toes curl, said Mr Palmer, who has written two books on the history of cheese in Britain. Its a step too far.

A hot cross bun is a lovely thing on its own, rather than some god-awful adulterous cheese that is probably over sweetened.

I wouldnt mess with hot cross buns or cheese.

To quote a famous line from Jurassic Park, they were so preoccupied with whether they could, they didnt stop to think if they should.

Morrisons has been contacted for comment.

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The House Education Committee announced Wednesday it has sent a letter to Rutgers University requesting information regarding its handling of antisemitism on campus, making it the fifth college the panel is probing on the issue.

The Committee on Education and the Workforce is investigating Rutgers Universitys response to antisemitism and its failure to protect Jewish students. I have grave concerns regarding the inadequacy of Rutgers response to antisemitism on its campuses, Chair Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) said in her letter, which is similar to ones the committee sent to Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania (Penn), the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Columbia University.

The letter lists incidents of antisemitism the committee says the school did not adequately address and requests information dating back to 2021 on antisemitic activity, what disciplinary actions were taken and communications that occurred between university officials on the subject.

Rutgers stands out for the intensity and pervasiveness of antisemitism on its campuses. Rutgers senior administrators, faculty, staff, academic departments and centers, and student organizations have contributed to the development of a pervasive climate of antisemitism, the letter reads.

Republican lawmakers vowed to start investigating schools after a December hearing where the presidents of Harvard, Penn and MIT equivocated when asked whether calls for the genocide of Jewish people would be considered harassment on campus.

The investigations began with those three schools, with Harvards probe recently escalating to a subpoena from Foxx.

Officials from Columbia University will be testifying in front of the committee at an antisemitism hearing in April.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Scottish government has published plans to introduce longer-term rent controls for the private sector.

The Housing (Scotland) Bill will place a duty on local councils to carry out assessments on the state of private accommodation in their area.

The bill - which comes against the backdrop of four local authorities declaring a housing emergency - has been welcomed by tenants' rights groups.

But the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) told BBC Scotland the legislation would exacerbate Scotlands housing crisis.

The bill does not specify particular controls which could be placed on landlords, though it does say that rises would be capped during and in-between tenancies.

If passed, it will also introduce new rights for tenants to keep pets and decorate their homes.

Tenants' Rights Minister Patrick Harvie said a "fairer, well-regulated rented sector" would be good for both tenants and landlords.

"Tenants benefit from improved conditions and security, while good responsible landlords will thrive when their good practice is recognised by regulation," he said.

"Scotland has led the way across the UK in improving the experience of people who rent their homes and this reform has been at the same time as significant growth in the size of the private rented sector.

"Progressive reform can lead to better conditions and a healthy rented sector overall. I want to keep working with both tenants and landlords to achieve that goal."

Housing emergency

Controls could include keeping any rises to a specified percentage.

Student accommodation will be exempt from rent control areas.

The bill comes at a time of increased concern about the state of housing across Scotland.

Four councils - Argyll and Bute, Edinburgh, Fife and Glasgow have declared a "housing emergency".

And recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that Scotland has seen the highest rent increases of any UK nation.

That is despite ministers introducing temporary legislation in 2022 which capped rents in a bid to address the cost of living crisis.

The data showed that average private rents increased in by 10.9% in Scotland, 8.8% in England and 9% in Wales.

Aditi Jehangir, secretary of the Living Rent group, praised the new legislation as having the potential to have a "huge impact" on tenants.

She said: This bill is a huge step forward for tenants.

It includes key measures that we have been fighting for such as rent controls that apply between tenancy, the ability to cap increases at 0%, rights for joint tenants to leave and the right to have pets and redecorate."

John Blackwood stated he had concerns over the proposals

John Blackwood, chief executive of SAL, criticised the plans. He said they "do nothing" to help private tenants or landlords.

"The rent control proposals, as has been seen in places like Ireland which has similar measures, will see reduced investment and more landlords leaving the sector, leading to higher costs for tenants," he said.

Tackling homelessness

As well as changes to the private rental sector, the bill proposes duties on public authorities - including councils, the police and the health service - to ensure people do not become homeless.

They will be required to ask about the housing circumstances of those they interact with and provide support, or refer them, to their local authority.

Councils will be required to act six months before homelessness is imminent, instead of the current two months.

And the bill will update the definition of domestic abuse in current housing legislation and force social landlords to devise a policy to support tenants at risk of homelessness because of abuse.

Housing Minister Paul McLennan said: "Early action, through the kinds of measures included in the housing bill, results in fewer people reaching the point of housing crisis."

However, housing charity Shelter Scotland stated the proposals failed to address "systemic issues driving the housing emergency.

Director Alison Watson said there was no realistic prospect of councils being able to fulfil new obligations when they are already failing to meet existing duties.

What we need is urgent action to drive up the supply of social homes, invest in local services and stop councils breaking existing homelessness laws.

"Instead, we have a housing bill that does none of that and risks diverting frontline staff from the task in hand."

'Half-baked'

However, housing charity Shelter Scotland said the proposals failed to address "systemic issues driving the housing emergency.

Director Alison Watson said it was not realistic to expect councils to fulfil new obligations when they are already failing to meet existing duties.

What we need is urgent action to drive up the supply of social homes, invest in local services and stop councils breaking existing homelessness laws.

"Instead, we have a housing bill that does none of that and risks diverting frontline staff from the task in hand."

Scottish Labour described the proposals as "half-baked".

Housing spokesman Mark Griffin said: "This bill exposes the fact that the SNP government has no clear plan to tackle the housing crisis and homelessness in Scotland after 17 years of failure and decline.

"It is nothing short of a shocking failure of the most vulnerable in our society.

"The bill does not offer enough to tackle homelessness, is slow to help renters, and has done nothing to properly encourage affordable home building."
A Houthi court sentenced nine men to death on charges of sodomy, Human Rights Watch has found, while sentencing an additional 23 men to prison.

An investigation by the organization revealed that the 32 men were sentenced earlier this year on January 23. The nine death sentences included crucifixion and stoning, and an additional three were sentenced to public flogging, marking one of the most harrowing cases of civilians being sentenced for immoral acts" under the conservative Islamist regime.

In an abhorrent disregard for the rule of law, the Houthis are handing down death sentences and subjecting men to public mistreatment without a semblance of due process, Niku Jafarnia, Yemen and Bahrain researcher at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement. The Houthis are using these cruel measures to distract from their failure to govern and provide people in their territories with basic needs.

The sentences were handed down after "egregious violations of Yemens own criminal procedural code," according to the organization. This included "blatant due process violations" such as law enforcement failing to provide arrest warrants and unlawfully confiscating the mens phones.

The men are also believed to have been denied adequate access to legal council, in violation of the country's laws. Yemen's Criminal Procedures law, under articles 132 and 172, prohibits law enforcement from making arrests or seizing peoples belongings without a warrant. Article 181 also prohibits police from interrogating suspects without the presence of a lawyer.

The Houthis, who control expansive territory in Yemen, are still obligated under international law to "respect and protect the human rights of individuals and groups even as a non-state actor, the organization noted. It called on the militant group to "end their use of the death penalty and other forms of cruel and degrading punishment and provide fair trials for those charged."



To cover up their brutality, Houthis are charging people with immoral acts, especially for those who oppose them, Jafarnia continued. The Houthis should immediately end the use of the death penalty and other forms of cruel and degrading punishments and provide due process for those charged.
The sun sets over Huntington Beach at the end of a hot December day in 2023. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Deadly heat in the Southwest. Hot-tub temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean. Sweltering conditions in Europe, Asia and South America.

That 2023 was Earth's hottest year on record was in some ways no surprise. For decades, scientists have been sounding the alarm about rapidly rising temperatures driven by humanity's relentless burning of fossil fuels.

But last year's sudden spike in global temperatures blew far beyond what statistical climate models had predicted, leading one noted climate scientist to warn that the world may be entering "uncharted territory."

"It's humbling, and a bit worrying, to admit that no year has confounded climate scientists' predictive capabilities more than 2023 has," wrote Gavin Schmidt, director of NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies, in a recent article in the journal Nature.

Now, he and other researchers are scrambling to explain why 2023 was so anomalously hot. Many theories have been proposed, but "as yet, no combination of them has been able to reconcile our theories with what has happened," Schmidt wrote.

Misters spray water on a young boy at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., as as temperatures approached 100 degrees in June 2023. (Charlie Riedel / Associated Press)

Last year's global average temperature of 58.96 degrees Fahrenheit was about a third of a degree warmer than the previous hottest year in 2016, and about 2.67 degrees warmer than the late 1800s pre-industrial period against which global warming is measured.

While human-caused climate change and El Nino can account for much of that warming, Schmidt and other experts say the extra three or four tenths of a degree is harder to account for.

Theories for the increase include a 2020 change in aerosol shipping regulations designed to help improve air quality around ports and coastal areas, which may have had the unintended consequence of enabling more sunlight to reach the planet.

The 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haapai volcano also shot millions of tons of water vapor into the stratosphere, which scientists say helped to trap some heat. What's more, a recent uptick in the 11-year solar cycle may have contributed about a tenth of a degree of additional warning.

Read more: Earth reaches grim milestone: 2023 was the warmest year on record

But these factors alone cannot explain what's happening, Schmidt said.

"Even after taking all plausible explanations into account, the divergence between expected and observed annual mean temperatures in 2023 remains about 0.2 C  roughly the gap between the previous and current annual record," he wrote in his report.

Heat ripples from hot asphalt in downtown Phoenix in July 2023. (Matt York / Associated Press)

Reached by phone, Schmidt said he thinks one of three things could be going on.

It's possible that 2023 was a "blip"  a perfect storm of natural variables and Earth cycles lining up to create one freakishly hot year. Should that prove to be the case, "it won't have huge implications for what we're going to see in the future, because it would have been just such a rare and unlikely thing that is not going to happen again anytime soon," he said.

However, he indicated that's unlikely, as those elements "have never lined up to give us a blip this large."

Another possibility is that scientists have misunderstood the driving forces of climate change. While greenhouse gases, volcanic eruptions and aerosols are known to affect global temperatures, perhaps the full extent of their effects have been underestimated or miscalibrated. Should that be the case, he said, research and data sets will hopefully catch up soon.

The last explanation he offered is that the system itself is changing  and changing in ways that are faster and less predictable than previously understood.

"That would be worrying because science is really all about taking information from the past, looking at what's going on, and making predictions about the future," Schmidt said. "If we can't really trust the past, then we have no idea what's going to happen."

Read more: The planet is dangerously close to this climate threshold. Here's what 1.5C really means

Not everyone agrees with his assessment, however. Michael Mann, a professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science at the University of Pennsylvania, said the premise that 2023's warmth cannot be explained  or that it is inconsistent with model simulations  is "simply wrong."

"The situation is extremely similar to what we saw during the 2014-2016 period as we transitioned from several years of La Nina conditions to a major El Nino event, and then back to La Nina," Mann said in an email.

In fact, he said some recent modeling shows the global temperature spike in 2016 was even more of an outlier than that of 2023.

"The plot shows that the surface warming of the planet is proceeding almost precisely as predicted," Mann said. "And the models show that the warming will continue apace as long as we continue to burn fossil fuels and generate carbon pollution."

When asked about this interpretation, Schmidt said it's true that the 2014 to 2016 period was similarly anomalous. But there is a key difference between then and now, he said.

The 2016 temperature spike came on the heels of an El Nino event, with the biggest anomalies in February, March and April of the year following its peak, he said. He noted that similar patterns occurred after previous El Ninos in 1998 and 1942.

Conversely, last year's spike arrived in August, September, October and November  before the peak of El Nino  "and that has never happened before," Schmidt said. "It never happened in the temperature record that we have. It doesn't happen in the climate models."

Read more: Scientists warn that a crucial ocean current could collapse, altering global weather

Alex Hall, a professor of atmospheric and oceanic sciences at UCLA, said he largely agrees with Schmidt's assessment that the hypothesized factors alone can't account for the large temperature anomaly experienced in 2023 and early 2024. He likened it to the emergence of megafires, or extreme wildfires, in the last decade, which wasn't entirely foreseen.

"What we've learned is that there's an aspect of this that isn't fully predictable  that we don't fully understand  and that we are tempting fate here a little bit by continuing to interfere with the climate system," Hall said. "It's going to do things that we don't understand, that we don't anticipate, and those are going to have potentially big impacts."

Hall said the rapid transition from a persistent La Nina to a strong El Nino last summer likely played a role, as did the change in aerosol regulations.

He also posited that the rapid loss of Antarctic sea ice in 2023  itself an outcome of the warmer planet and oceans  could have created a kind of feedback loop that contributed to more warming. Ice and snow are reflective, so when they melt, it can result in a darker ocean that absorbs more heat and sunlight. (Antarctic sea ice coverage dropped to a record low in 2023, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.)

"It's sort of a planetary emergency for us to figure out what's going on when we see these types of changes," Hall said. "There should be large teams of people working on it to try to understand it, and we don't really have those kinds of efforts, so I think there's lessons, too, for the need for focus on this particular topic."

Tourists seek shade and water while visiting the Acropolis of Athens during a heat wave in July 2023. (Petros Giannakouris / Associated Press)

While he and other scientists may not agree on just how extraordinary 2023 was  or what was behind its exceptional warmth  they all acknowledged the clear signs of a planet being pushed to its limits.

"I think it's unfortunate that so much has been made of the El Nino-spiked 2023 global temperatures, where in my view there is nothing surprising, or inconsistent with model predictions, there," said Mann. "There are much better, scientifically-sound reasons to be concerned about the unfolding climate crisis  particularly the onslaught of devastating weather extremes, heat waves, wildfires, floods, drought, which by some measures are indeed exceeding model predictions."

Last year was marked by extreme weather events, with more billion-dollar disasters in the United States than any other year, according to NOAA. Among them were the Lahaina wildfire in Hawaii in August; Hurricane Idalia in Florida that same month; and severe flooding in New York in September.

Already this year, January and February have continued the global hot streak, marking nine consecutive months of a record-breaking temperatures.

In his Nature article, Schmidt said the inexplicable elements of the recent warming have revealed an "unprecedented knowledge gap" in today's climate monitoring, which drives home the need for more nimble data collection that can keep up with the pace of change.

He noted it may take researchers months or even years to unpack all the factors that could have played a part in the sizzling conditions.

"We need answers for why 2023 turned out to be the warmest year in possibly the past 100,000 years," he wrote. "And we need them quickly."

Though El Nino is expected to wane this summer, there is still a 45% chance that this year will be warmer than 2023, according to NOAA.

It is a near certainty however that 2024 will rank among the five hottest years on record  so far.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Protesters take to the streets outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, where justices questioned attorneys about broad changes in access to mifepristone. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTONAs the enormous yellow banner unfurled in front of the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court Tuesday morning, Laura Clime-Coates turned to her 9-year-old daughter and said, Those are the names of people who agree with us.

On the sign, titled We the People Support Medication Abortion, were what activists estimated to be half-a-million signatures from people across the U.S. asking the Supreme Court not to restrict mifepristone, a commonly used drug for abortions and miscarriage management. And for Clime-Coates, who said she signed several petitions in support of medication abortion, mifepristone is the reason her oldest child was standing beside her, and the reason she has a little sister at home in Baltimore.

Back in 2009, Clime-Coates said she experienced what she referred to as a missed miscarriage.

There was no heartbeat, and it was risking my future ability to have children, and I really wanted children, she told States Newsroom. The tissue was not developing and threatening my uterus. My choice was to wait around and damage my body or take mifepristone.

Clime-Coates and her daughter were among hundreds of abortion rights supporters holding signs and chanting, while inside, the justices heard oral arguments in U.S. Food and Drug Administration v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, their first major reproductive rights case since overturning Roe v. Wade almost two years ago.

In the absence of a legal precedent protecting the right to terminate a pregnancy, the implications for abortion access in this case are as high as they have ever been. More than a dozen states have banned or heavily restricted abortion since 2022s Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization decision, but abortion rates have risen rather than fallen. The Guttmacher Institute recently published data estimating more than 1 million abortions in 2023, of which about 63% were via medication, and that only includes abortions in the formal medical system.

Many reproductive rights researchers and providers credit the rise in part to the FDA lifting certain restrictions on abortion medication after more than two decades of consistent safety and efficacy data. Beginning in 2016, the FDA increased the gestational window women could terminate pregnancies using medication, adjusted the dosages, removed in-clinic requirements, and made medication abortion available via telemedicine and directly at pharmacies.

Initially filed in 2022 by anti-abortion doctors and medical groups a few months after Roe was overturned, the case has incurred criticism from throughout the medical and scientific community because of its flawed scientific claims that mifepristone is dangerous and should not have been approved by the FDA. At issue now in the FDAs appeal to the Supreme Court is whether to uphold the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals opinion that the FDA must reapply older restrictions against the agencys own scientific determination.

The coalition of anti-abortion medical groups have largely relied on anecdotes from longtime anti-abortion activists, as well as a handful of studies produced by some of the main medical groups connected to the lawsuits, two of which were recently retracted by academic publisher Sage for methodological flaws and undisclosed conflicts of interest.

In anticipation of the oral arguments in this case, those in the pharmaceutical industry have expressed anxiety that a ruling against the FDA could stifle future drug development, by allowing anyone with an ideological opposition to a medication to try to force a drug-policy change.

This case isnt about mifepristone, said Elizabeth Jeffords, the CEO of a small biotech company called Iolyx Therapeutics, on a webinar organized by reproductive health researchers last week. This is about whether or not the FDA is allowed to be the scientific arbiter of what is good and safe for patients. . Its critical for our ecosystem that we continue to have investors, and investors will only come to our ecosystem if they have some certainty. If I had to believe that I would have to stand up to multiple litigations from parties without standing over the course of any drug that were working on developing, I wouldnt have enough money to exist, and all of the little biotech companies would be out of existence as well.

Pharmaceutical sciences professor Chris Adkins  who sparked the investigation into those studies and has co-authored a new academic paper in the journal Contraception breaking down what he says are significant methodological flaws  said it has been difficult to watch this case advance all the way to the Supreme Court.

I just hope moving forward that weve got more public awareness that our federal courts have not always been the best evaluators of scientific evidence, Adkins told States Newsroom. I really hope that the public can really put some pressure on the courts to do a better job at evaluating the scientific and the medical literature, because I think this all impacts each one of us, our families, our futures.  This type of case could threaten regulatory approval or the processes theyre involved with, not just for mifepristone, but for others.

But for both abortion opponents and supporters outside the Supreme Court Tuesday, the issue is personal.

I was really glad I had that choice, Clime-Coates said. Its health care! And I would hate for any of my children or any woman or anyone whos capable of reproduction to not have that choice in the future.

Alethea Shapiro, a protester from Florida, told States Newsroom she needed mifepristone years ago to terminate a pregnancy for medical reasons. Hands off our mifepristone! she yelled in a small circle of activists organized by the Womens March and the Center for Popular Democracy. Some of the activists had prepared for arrests, but they eventually dispersed while law enforcement officers surveilled the crowd.

A man holding a sign saying Kacsmaryk ruling right for Amarillo Right for America Right for Life and a woman holding a sign saying ABortion Pills Kills

Anti-abortion activists from Amarillo, Texas, home of the federal district court where Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA was originally filed, traveled to Washington to support restricting medication abortion. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

Robin Ross, an anti-abortion activist from Amarillo, Texas  home of the conservative federal district court where the case was originally filed, told States Newsroom she had secretly attended abortion rights demonstrators planning session the night before but said she learned little beyond logistics. The 57-year-old Navy veteran said she recently became an activist after learning that her teenage mother had attempted to abort her in the 1960s, before abortion was legal throughout the country. Ross said that she has had many health problems, including the inability to have children, because of the abortion attempt (she did not give specifics, but she said it was not the medication abortion method authorized by the FDA, at issue in this lawsuit). She is currently working to make Amarillo a so-called sanctuary city for the unborn.

As soon as I heard about the ability to put my faith into action and me as an abortion survivor, I instantly wanted to start [anti-abortion activism].

Some anti-abortion activists proudly displayed their pregnant bellies in protest of medication abortion.

Im here because Im 34 weeks pregnant. Im advocating for the rights of my child, my baby in the womb, said Savannah Evans from Tampa, Florida, who does marketing for the national anti-abortion group Live Action.  I dont want her to grow up in a world that sees an abortion as an acceptable option for women.

At 22, Evans said her pregnancy was unplanned and that she was initially terrified, but she and her now-husband chose to parent.

Among the speakers in the largely outnumbered anti-abortion crowd, messages focused heavily on alleged high risks of medication abortion and called on the Supreme Court to order the FDA to reapply the since-lifted restrictions that have made it possible for women to have medication abortions via telemedicine and in their homes.

FDA, do your job! shouted Marjorie Dannefelser, the president of Susan B. Anthony Pro Life America. We certainly do not have complete agreement upon the fact that there are two patients in every pregnancy, but we can at least pledge ourselves to one patient: the woman receiving abortion drugs in the mail in her home alone.  She has become her own abortionist in an unsafe home abortion.

Recent research on telemedicine abortions, co-authored by University of California San Francisco epidemiologist Ushma Upadhyay, finds a low rate of serious adverse risks. And reproductive rights activists working to expand medication access around the nation said in interviews that abortion drugs are here to stay, even if the Supreme Court sides with the anti-abortion activists, which as States Newsroom reported Tuesday, is far from a sure thing.

We know that people, no matter what happens with this case, are going to continue to access pills outside of the formal health care system, said Bethany Van Kampen Saravia, senior legal and policy advisor at Ipas, which for decades has worked in countries with restrictive laws to train providers and help expand access to abortion care. Since the overturning of Roe, she said Ipas has refocused their efforts throughout the U.S., where at least half the states have near-total bans or heavy restrictions. As States Newsroom recently reported, new data shows a rise in self-managed abortions since the Dobbs decision.

People will continue to get medication abortion through online access, through telehealth service, through online pharmacies, through your community network, Van Kampen Saravia said. Self-managed abortion is a WHO-recommended method of care. What Ipas knows from decades of working outside of the U.S. is that abortion with medication is safe and effective. And thats not going to stop no matter what happens.

Abortion providers who work in and outside of the formal medical system told States Newsroom they should be able to prescribe the current medication abortion regimen off label, if the FDA is ordered to change its protocol.

Were continuing to work because the pills are still on the market, theyre still registered, so they will be available and the doctors have the freedom to prescribe them off label, said Dutch physician Dr. Rebecca Gomperts, founder of the online clinic Aid Access, which she said has been working with states with shield laws to ship abortion drugs to women in states with abortion bans. She was in front of the court handing out, for free, a small amount of boxes of the abortion-medication regimen. She said Aid Access will continue helping women self-manage their abortions.

No matter what the Supreme Court is going to do, well be there, Gomperts said.

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The post Hundreds protest outside the U.S. Supreme Court to keep abortion medication accessible appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
Protesters take to the streets outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, where justices questioned attorneys about broad changes in access to mifepristone. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTONAs the enormous yellow banner unfurled in front of the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court Tuesday morning, Laura Clime-Coates turned to her 9-year-old daughter and said, Those are the names of people who agree with us.

On the sign, titled We the People Support Medication Abortion, were what activists estimated to be half-a-million signatures from people across the U.S. asking the Supreme Court not to restrict mifepristone, a commonly used drug for abortions and miscarriage management. And for Clime-Coates, who said she signed several petitions in support of medication abortion, mifepristone is the reason her oldest child was standing beside her, and the reason she has a little sister at home in Baltimore.

Back in 2009, Clime-Coates said she experienced what she referred to as a missed miscarriage.

There was no heartbeat, and it was risking my future ability to have children, and I really wanted children, she told States Newsroom. The tissue was not developing and threatening my uterus. My choice was to wait around and damage my body or take mifepristone.

Clime-Coates and her daughter were among hundreds of abortion rights supporters holding signs and chanting, while inside, the justices heard oral arguments in U.S. Food and Drug Administration v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, their first major reproductive rights case since overturning Roe v. Wade almost two years ago.

In the absence of a legal precedent protecting the right to terminate a pregnancy, the implications for abortion access in this case are as high as they have ever been. More than a dozen states have banned or heavily restricted abortion since 2022s Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization decision, but abortion rates have risen rather than fallen.

The Guttmacher Institute recently published data estimating more than 1 million abortions in 2023, of which about 63% were via medication, and that only includes abortions in the formal medical system. Many reproductive rights researchers and providers credit the rise in part to the FDA lifting certain restrictions on abortion medication after more than two decades of consistent safety and efficacy data. Beginning in 2016, the FDA increased the gestational window women could terminate pregnancies using medication, adjusted the dosages, removed in-clinic requirements, and made medication abortion available via telemedicine and directly at pharmacies.

Initially filed in 2022 by anti-abortion doctors and medical groups a few months after Roe was overturned, the case has incurred criticism from throughout the medical and scientific community because of its flawed scientific claims that mifepristone is dangerous and should not have been approved by the FDA.

At issue now in the FDAs appeal to the Supreme Court is whether to uphold the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals opinion that the FDA must reapply older restrictions against the agencys own scientific determination.

The coalition of anti-abortion medical groups have largely relied on anecdotes from longtime anti-abortion activists, as well as a handful of studies produced by some of the main medical groups connected to the lawsuits, two of which were recently retracted by academic publisher Sage for methodological flaws and undisclosed conflicts of interest.

In anticipation of the oral arguments in this case, those in the pharmaceutical industry have expressed anxiety that a ruling against the FDA could stifle future drug development, by allowing anyone with an ideological opposition to a medication to try to force a drug-policy change.

This case isnt about mifepristone, said Elizabeth Jeffords, the CEO of a small biotech company called Iolyx Therapeutics, on a webinar organized by reproductive health researchers last week. This is about whether or not the FDA is allowed to be the scientific arbiter of what is good and safe for patients. . Its critical for our ecosystem that we continue to have investors, and investors will only come to our ecosystem if they have some certainty. If I had to believe that I would have to stand up to multiple litigations from parties without standing over the course of any drug that were working on developing, I wouldnt have enough money to exist, and all of the little biotech companies would be out of existence as well.

Pharmaceutical sciences professor Chris Adkins  who sparked the investigation into those studies and has co-authored a new academic paper in the journal Contraception breaking down what he says are significant methodological flaws  said it has been difficult to watch this case advance all the way to the Supreme Court.

I just hope moving forward that weve got more public awareness that our federal courts have not always been the best evaluators of scientific evidence, Adkins told States Newsroom. I really hope that the public can really put some pressure on the courts to do a better job at evaluating the scientific and the medical literature, because I think this all impacts each one of us, our families, our futures.  This type of case could threaten regulatory approval or the processes theyre involved with, not just for mifepristone, but for others.

But for both abortion opponents and supporters outside the Supreme Court Tuesday, the issue is personal.

I was really glad I had that choice, Clime-Coates said. Its health care! And I would hate for any of my children or any woman or anyone whos capable of reproduction to not have that choice in the future.

Alethea Shapiro, a protester from Florida, told States Newsroom she needed mifepristone years ago to terminate a pregnancy for medical reasons. Hands off our mifepristone! she yelled in a small circle of activists organized by the Womens March and the Center for Popular Democracy. Some of the activists had prepared for arrests, but they eventually dispersed while law enforcement officers surveilled the crowd.

Anti-abortion activists from Amarillo, Texas, home of the federal district court where Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA was originally filed, traveled to Washington to support restricting medication abortion. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

Robin Ross, an anti-abortion activist from Amarillo, Texas  home of the conservative federal district court where the case was originally filed  told States Newsroom she had secretly attended abortion rights demonstrators planning session the night before but said she learned little beyond logistics. The 57-year-old Navy veteran said she recently became an activist after learning that her teenage mother had attempted to abort her in the 1960s, before abortion was legal throughout the country. Ross said that she has had many health problems, including the inability to have children, because of the abortion attempt. (She did not give specifics, but she said it was not the medication abortion method authorized by the FDA, at issue in this lawsuit.) She is currently working to make Amarillo a so-called sanctuary city for the unborn.

As soon as I heard about the ability to put my faith into action and me as an abortion survivor, I instantly wanted to start [anti-abortion activism].

Christine Dimattia, an anti-abortion activist with Progressive Anti-Abortion Uprising, said she regularly protests outside abortion clinics and believes there should be more restrictions on mifepristone. (Sofia Resnick/States Newsroom)

Some anti-abortion activists proudly displayed their pregnant bellies in protest of medication abortion.

Im here because Im 34 weeks pregnant. Im advocating for the rights of my child, my baby in the womb, said Savannah Evans from Tampa, Florida, who does marketing for the national anti-abortion group Live Action.  I dont want her to grow up in a world that sees an abortion as an acceptable option for women.

At 22, Evans said her pregnancy was unplanned and that she was initially terrified, but she and her now-husband chose to parent.

Among the speakers in the largely outnumbered anti-abortion crowd, messages focused heavily on alleged high risks of medication abortion and called on the Supreme Court to order the FDA to reapply the since-lifted restrictions that have made it possible for women to have medication abortions via telemedicine and in their homes.

FDA, do your job! shouted Marjorie Dannefelser, the president of Susan B. Anthony Pro Life America. We certainly do not have complete agreement upon the fact that there are two patients in every pregnancy, but we can at least pledge ourselves to one patient: the woman receiving abortion drugs in the mail in her home alone.  She has become her own abortionist in an unsafe home abortion.

Recent research on telemedicine abortions, co-authored by University of California San Francisco epidemiologist Ushma Upadhyay, finds a low rate of serious adverse risks. And reproductive rights activists working to expand medication access around the nation said in interviews that abortion drugs are here to stay, even if the Supreme Court sides with the anti-abortion activists, which as States Newsroom reported Tuesday, is far from a sure thing.

We know that people, no matter what happens with this case, are going to continue to access pills outside of the formal health care system, said Bethany Van Kampen Saravia, senior legal and policy advisor at Ipas, which for decades has worked in countries with restrictive laws to train providers and help expand access to abortion care. Since the overturning of Roe, she said Ipas has refocused their efforts throughout the U.S., where at least half the states have near-total bans or heavy restrictions. As States Newsroom recently reported, new data shows a rise in self-managed abortions since the Dobbs decision.

People will continue to get medication abortion through online access, through telehealth service, through online pharmacies, through your community network, Van Kampen Saravia said. Self-managed abortion is a WHO-recommended method of care. What Ipas knows from decades of working outside of the U.S. is that abortion with medication is safe and effective. And thats not going to stop no matter what happens.

Abortion providers who work in and outside of the formal medical system told States Newsroom they should be able to prescribe the current medication abortion regimen off label, if the FDA is ordered to change its protocol.

Were continuing to work because the pills are still on the market, theyre still registered, so they will be available and the doctors have the freedom to prescribe them off label, said Dutch physician Dr. Rebecca Gomperts, founder of the online clinic Aid Access, which she said has been working with states with shield laws to ship abortion drugs to women in states with abortion bans. She was in front of the court handing out, for free, a small amount of boxes of the abortion-medication regimen. She said Aid Access will continue helping women self-manage their abortions.

No matter what the Supreme Court is going to do, well be there, Gomperts said.

The post Hundreds protest outside the U.S. Supreme Court to keep abortion medication accessible appeared first on Arkansas Advocate.
Protesters take to the streets outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, where justices questioned attorneys about broad changes in access to mifepristone. Photo by Sofia Resnick | States Newsroom

WASHINGTONAs the enormous yellow banner unfurled in front of the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court Tuesday morning, Laura Clime-Coates turned to her 9-year-old daughter and said, Those are the names of people who agree with us.

On the sign, titled We the People Support Medication Abortion, were what activists estimated to be half-a-million signatures from people across the U.S. asking the Supreme Court not to restrict mifepristone, a commonly used drug for abortions and miscarriage management. And for Clime-Coates, who said she signed several petitions in support of medication abortion, mifepristone is the reason her oldest child was standing beside her, and the reason she has a little sister at home in Baltimore.

Back in 2009, Clime-Coates said she experienced what she referred to as a missed miscarriage.

There was no heartbeat, and it was risking my future ability to have children, and I really wanted children, she told States Newsroom. The tissue was not developing and threatening my uterus. My choice was to wait around and damage my body or take mifepristone.

Clime-Coates and her daughter were among hundreds of abortion rights supporters holding signs and chanting, while inside, the justices heard oral arguments in U.S. Food and Drug Administration v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, their first major reproductive rights case since overturning Roe v. Wade almost two years ago.

In the absence of a legal precedent protecting the right to terminate a pregnancy, the implications for abortion access in this case are as high as they have ever been. More than a dozen states have banned or heavily restricted abortion since 2022s Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization decision, but abortion rates have risen rather than fallen. The Guttmacher Institute recently published data estimating more than 1 million abortions in 2023, of which about 63% were via medication, and that only includes abortions in the formal medical system. Many reproductive rights researchers and providers credit the rise in part to the FDA lifting certain restrictions on abortion medication after more than two decades of consistent safety and efficacy data. Beginning in 2016, the FDA increased the gestational window women could terminate pregnancies using medication, adjusted the dosages, removed in-clinic requirements, and made medication abortion available via telemedicine and directly at pharmacies.

Initially filed in 2022 by anti-abortion doctors and medical groups a few months after Roe was overturned, the case has incurred criticism from throughout the medical and scientific community because of its flawed scientific claims that mifepristone is dangerous and should not have been approved by the FDA. At issue now in the FDAs appeal to the Supreme Court is whether to uphold the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals opinion that the FDA must reapply older restrictions against the agencys own scientific determination. The coalition of anti-abortion medical groups have largely relied on anecdotes from longtime anti-abortion activists, as well as a handful of studies produced by some of the main medical groups connected to the lawsuits, two of which were recently retracted by academic publisher Sage for methodological flaws and undisclosed conflicts of interest.

In anticipation of the oral arguments in this case, those in the pharmaceutical industry have expressed anxiety that a ruling against the FDA could stifle future drug development, by allowing anyone with an ideological opposition to a medication to try to force a drug-policy change.

This case isnt about mifepristone, said Elizabeth Jeffords, the CEO of a small biotech company called Iolyx Therapeutics, on a webinar organized by reproductive health researchers last week. This is about whether or not the FDA is allowed to be the scientific arbiter of what is good and safe for patients. . Its critical for our ecosystem that we continue to have investors, and investors will only come to our ecosystem if they have some certainty. If I had to believe that I would have to stand up to multiple litigations from parties without standing over the course of any drug that were working on developing, I wouldnt have enough money to exist, and all of the little biotech companies would be out of existence as well.

Pharmaceutical sciences professor Chris Adkins  who sparked the investigation into those studies and has co-authored a new academic paper in the journal Contraception breaking down what he says are significant methodological flaws  said it has been difficult to watch this case advance all the way to the Supreme Court.

I just hope moving forward that weve got more public awareness that our federal courts have not always been the best evaluators of scientific evidence, Adkins told States Newsroom. I really hope that the public can really put some pressure on the courts to do a better job at evaluating the scientific and the medical literature, because I think this all impacts each one of us, our families, our futures.  This type of case could threaten regulatory approval or the processes theyre involved with, not just for mifepristone, but for others.

This case isnt about mifepristone. This is about whether or not the FDA is allowed to be the scientific arbiter of what is good and safe for patients.

 Elizabeth Jeffords, CEO of Iolyx Therapeutics

But for both abortion opponents and supporters outside the Supreme Court Tuesday, the issue is personal.

I was really glad I had that choice, Clime-Coates said. Its health care! And I would hate for any of my children or any woman or anyone whos capable of reproduction to not have that choice in the future.

Alethea Shapiro, a protester from Florida, told States Newsroom she needed mifepristone years ago to terminate a pregnancy for medical reasons. Hands off our mifepristone! she yelled in a small circle of activists organized by the Womens March and the Center for Popular Democracy. Some of the activists had prepared for arrests, but they eventually dispersed while law enforcement officers surveilled the crowd.

Robin Ross, an anti-abortion activist from Amarillo, Texas  home of the conservative federal district court where the case was originally filed, told States Newsroom she had secretly attended abortion rights demonstrators planning session the night before but said she learned little beyond logistics. The 57-year-old Navy veteran said she recently became an activist after learning that her teenage mother had attempted to abort her in the 1960s, before abortion was legal throughout the country. Ross said that she has had many health problems, including the inability to have children, because of the abortion attempt (she did not give specifics, but she said it was not the medication abortion method authorized by the FDA, at issue in this lawsuit). She is currently working to make Amarillo a so-called sanctuary city for the unborn.

As soon as I heard about the ability to put my faith into action and me as an abortion survivor, I instantly wanted to start [anti-abortion activism], Ross said

Some anti-abortion activists proudly displayed their pregnant bellies in protest of medication abortion.

Im here because Im 34 weeks pregnant. Im advocating for the rights of my child, my baby in the womb, said Savannah Evans from Tampa, Florida, who does marketing for the national anti-abortion group Live Action. I dont want her to grow up in a world that sees an abortion as an acceptable option for women.

At 22, Evans said her pregnancy was unplanned and that she was initially terrified, but she and her now-husband chose to parent.

Among the speakers in the largely outnumbered anti-abortion crowd, messages focused heavily on alleged high risks of medication abortion and called on the Supreme Court to order the FDA to reapply the since-lifted restrictions that have made it possible for women to have medication abortions via telemedicine and in their homes.

FDA, do your job! shouted Marjorie Dannefelser, the president of Susan B. Anthony Pro Life America. We certainly do not have complete agreement upon the fact that there are two patients in every pregnancy, but we can at least pledge ourselves to one patient: the woman receiving abortion drugs in the mail in her home alone.  She has become her own abortionist in an unsafe home abortion.

I dont want her to grow up in a world that sees an abortion as an acceptable option for women.

 Savannah Evans

Recent research on telemedicine abortions, co-authored by University of California San Francisco epidemiologist Ushma Upadhyay, finds a low rate of serious adverse risks. And reproductive rights activists working to expand medication access around the nation said in interviews that abortion drugs are here to stay, even if the Supreme Court sides with the anti-abortion activists, which as States Newsroom reported Tuesday, is far from a sure thing.

We know that people, no matter what happens with this case, are going to continue to access pills outside of the formal health care system, said Bethany Van Kampen Saravia, senior legal and policy advisor at Ipas, which for decades has worked in countries with restrictive laws to train providers and help expand access to abortion care. Since the overturning of Roe, she said Ipas has refocused their efforts throughout the U.S., where at least half the states have near-total bans or heavy restrictions. As States Newsroom recently reported, new data shows a rise in self-managed abortions since the Dobbs decision.

People will continue to get medication abortion through online access, through telehealth service, through online pharmacies, through your community network, Van Kampen Saravia said. Self-managed abortion is a WHO-recommended method of care. What Ipas knows from decades of working outside of the U.S. is that abortion with medication is safe and effective. And thats not going to stop no matter what happens.

Abortion providers who work in and outside of the formal medical system told States Newsroom they should be able to prescribe the current medication abortion regimen off label, if the FDA is ordered to change its protocol.

Were continuing to work because the pills are still on the market, theyre still registered, so they will be available and the doctors have the freedom to prescribe them off label, said Dutch physician Dr. Rebecca Gomperts, founder of the online clinic Aid Access, which she said has been working with states with shield laws to ship abortion drugs to women in states with abortion bans. She was in front of the court handing out, for free, a small amount of boxes of the abortion-medication regimen. She said Aid Access will continue helping women self-manage their abortions.

No matter what the Supreme Court is going to do, well be there, Gomperts said.

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Producer Jerry Bruckheimer announced the continuation of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies without Johnny Depp in the lead role. He explained that he is planning two new parts of the franchise and the team is already actively working on them.

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So far, it is known that Margot Robbie will star in one of them, and the entire cast of the previous Jack Sparrow films will be completely renewed. However, as the director explained in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Robbie's perfect performance will require a lot of effort.

"Margot Robbie needs a little more work. The younger cast is close. I hope we get them both," Bruckheimer said.

In particular, the producer, who created all the legendary 5 parts of the film, believes in the successful continuation of the franchise, calling this project "alive for me, alive for Disney."

"We believe that we will do it. It's a very strong story," he said optimistically.

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However, despite Johnny Depp's categorical refusal to star in further Jack Sparrow films, Disney is still happy to welcome him back. Earlier, the actor said that "nothing on this Earth is impossible" and even "300 million dollars and a million alpacas" could make him appear in the next installments.

The first Jack Sparrow movie was released back in 2003 under the title Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, and the latest installment, Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge, is less than ten years old. It was these films that made Johnny Depp world famous, and fans create cosplays and parodies of his character to this day.

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It is not known whether viewers will see 39-year-old Keira Knightley, who played the aristocrat Elizabeth Swann, and Orlando Bloom, who played the role of William Turner, a blacksmith's apprentice and later Swann's husband, in the new installments.

Fans of the legendary franchise are outraged by the absence of their favorite actor Depp. "If there's no Johnny Depp, I won't watch it", "Johnny Depp is the heart and soul of the series. Without him, there are no Pirates of the Caribbean", "Nothing good will happen without Johnny Depp. Honestly, just let the franchise die", "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead in the Water", "There are three reasons why Pirates of the Caribbean was good: Jeffrey Rush, Johnny Depp, Gore Verbinski. If there is none of them, it's just Haunted Mansion," fans say on X.

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Hunter Bidens trial is due to start in June, a few months before Americans vote in the 2024 election.

Hunter Bidens trial is due to start in June, a few months before Americans vote in the 2024 election. Photograph: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc/Getty Images

Attorneys representing Hunter Biden asked a US judge in Los Angeles to dismiss the criminal case accusing him of evading $1.4m in taxes, arguing that prosecutors bowed to political pressure from Republican lawmakers investigating his father, Joe Biden.

Hunters lawyers appeared before the US district judge Mark Scarsi in federal court in Los Angeles on Wednesday to press several legal challenges to the charges, including an argument that he was selectively targeted by prosecutors in response to Republican criticism. The 54-year-old was not present in the courtroom.

Related: Hunter Biden says democracy is at stake in his battle to stay sober

Hunter has pleaded not guilty to failing to pay $1.4m in taxes between 2016 and 2019, while spending millions of dollars on drugs, escorts, exotic cars and other big-ticket items. His lawyer has said he paid back the money in full.

US district judge Mark Scarsi appeared to give a skeptical reception to dismissal request. At the hearing, Scarsi asked whether Hunters lawyers had any evidence that prosecutors had caved to pressure from Republicans, other than the fact that they filed charges after months of accusations by Republicans in Congress and Donald Trump that he had been treated leniently.

Do you have any evidence other than the timeline? Scarsi asked Hunters lawyer, Abbe Lowell.

Lowell acknowledged that its a timeline, but its a juicy timeline.

Scarsi also voiced skepticism about Hunters defense teams argument that prosecutors had been pressured by two Internal Revenue Service agents who went public last year with information about his tax returns.

How are they responsible for whats in the indictment? Scarsi asked.

I cant make the connection that thats why that happened, Lowell said, later adding that: It was those two agents that started the dominoes.

Leo Wise, one of the prosecutors on the case, said it was patently absurd that the agents had influenced prosecutors.

The trial of the presidents youngest son is due to start in June, a few months before Americans vote in a November presidential election that looks set to be a close and deeply divisive contest between Joe Biden and Donald Trump.

Hunter also faces a separate criminal case in federal court in Delaware over his alleged purchase of a handgun while he was using illegal drugs. He has pleaded not guilty and made similar arguments to dismiss the charges in that case.

The special counsel David Weiss, who brought both cases, has accused Hunter Bidens legal team of spreading conspiracy theories about the prosecution. He has said the justice department would not act at the direction of Republican lawmakers, who are pursuing an impeachment investigation into whether Joe Biden profited from his sons activities. The inquiry has turned up no evidence that the president personally benefited.

Hunter is also seeking to toss out the charges by arguing that Weiss, who has investigated him since 2019, was improperly appointed special counsel.

Hunters defense team has also argued that the case is barred by an earlier plea deal the presidents son struck with prosecutors. The deal collapsed under questioning from a federal judge last year. Prosecutors have said it never took effect.
Attorneys for Hunter Biden are seeking to have his tax charges dismissed in a hearing at a federal court in Los Angeles on Wednesday afternoon.

Biden pleaded not guilty in January to three felony charges and six misdemeanor charges in connection to tax evasion, filing a false return and failing to pay taxes between 2016 and 2019. He is asking the judge to toss the case, arguing in court filings last month that the case was politically motivated and that the case was tainted by two IRS agents who later became whistleblowers.

Since its inception in 2018, the investigation of Mr. Biden has been compromised by politics. This case follows a nearly six-year record of DOJ changing its charging decisions and upping the ante on Mr. Biden in direct response to political pressure and its own self-interests, attorneys for the presidents son wrote.

When the prosecution brings charges for purposes unrelated to legitimate prosecutorial considerations, it violates due process and equal protection rights, they added.

Bidens attorneys also argued that the case should be dismissed due to outrageous government conduct involving two IRS agents who were assigned to his case. They later became whistleblowers who cooperated with the House GOPs probe into the presidents son, according to a court filing.

The governments actions in this case are beyond egregious; the agents continuously disobeyed supervisors and flagrantly disregarded numerous federal statutes and rules designed to prevent the very abuse the agents were undertaking, Bidens lawyers argued.

Prosecutors pushed back on the argument that the case was politically motivated in subsequent court filings, calling the claims a fictitious narrative.

From this fairly unremarkable set of procedural events, the defendant concocts a conspiracy theory that the prosecution has upped the ante to appease politicians who have absolutely nothing to do with the prosecution and are not even members of the current Executive Branch, prosecutors wrote.

The hearing on the outcome of his tax charges will start at 4 p.m. EDT Wednesday, with Judge Mark Scarsi presiding. Scarsi was appointed by former President Trump, who is also facing a slew of criminal cases.

The California tax case is one of two cases Biden faces as a result of special counsel David Weisss investigation into him; the presidents son is also facing three gun-related charges in Delaware, which he pleaded not guilty to. His not guilty plea came after a plea deal between him and prosecutors fell apart last year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Attorneys for Hunter Biden and special counsel David Weiss are set for a courtroom showdown Wednesday over the future of his felony tax indictment.

Weiss charged President Joe Bidens son in December with nine tax offenses. Hunter Biden pleaded not guilty, and his lawyers have since lodged several bids to throw out part or all of the charges, which will be argued in front of a federal judge in Los Angeles.

The eventual decision from US District Judge Mark Scarsi on the fate of the tax charges could have an impact on the 2024 election, where Joe Biden is currently locked in a tight race against former President Donald Trump, who faces his own criminal trials this year. (Scarsi is a Trump appointee who was confirmed in a bipartisan Senate vote.)

Federal prosecutors say Hunter Biden repeatedly failed to file his taxes on time, missed deadlines to pay his IRS debts, and engaged in a criminal tax-evasion scheme over several years by filing false tax returns and cooking the books on his companys payroll.

While Hunter Biden is accused of dodging taxes on income from China and Ukraine, nothing in the indictment backs up Republicans assertion that he and his father corruptly earned millions overseas together. Those claims were on display last week at a hearing in the House GOP impeachment inquiry, which has now all but sputtered out.

Even so, Hunter Biden still needs to grapple with the criminal charges, and his team has seized on the impeachment effort to argue that the case should be tossed.

In court filings, they claimed Weiss only brought the felony tax case because he caved to outside pressure from Trump and congressional Republicans, who repeatedly called for his prosecution, and then erupted when Weiss proposed a plea deal last summer, which later fell apart.

Mr. Biden is being targeted because of his political and familial affiliations, they wrote.

They also argued that the case must be dismissed because it has been hopelessly tainted by the actions of two IRS agents who previously worked on the probe but later become whistleblowers and cooperated with the House GOP impeachment inquiry.

The governments actions in this case are beyond egregious, Hunter Bidens lawyers wrote, accusing the IRS agents of taking the law into their own hands by leaking his tax records to Republicans and pursuing vigilante justice in the court of public opinion.

Special counsel prosecutors have pushed back on Hunter Bidens theory that they only filed the felony charges because of GOP pressure. (Ironically, last year, Republicans had accused Weiss of buckling to Democratic pressure from Joe Biden to go soft on his son  which Weiss also denied.)

From this fairly unremarkable set of procedural events, the defendant concocts a conspiracy theory that the prosecution has upped the ante to appease politicians who have absolutely nothing to do with the prosecution, prosecutors wrote in a filing.

Hunter Biden was separately indicted in Delaware in connection with three alleged gun crimes. (He denies wrongdoing.) The gun trial is slated to begin June 3, which would be a few weeks before the scheduled June 20 trial date for the tax charges in California.

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Hunter Biden, center, accompanied by his attorneys Kevin Morris, left, and Abbe Lowell at a Jan. 10 congressional hearing. (Jose Luis Magana / Associated Press)

Lawyers for Hunter Biden asked a federal judge in Los Angeles to throw out nine tax-related charges, arguing that the president's son is being vindictively prosecuted by the Justice Department and had his rights trampled by two IRS agents who publicly revealed his confidential tax records.

At a hearing Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Mark C. Scarsi appeared skeptical about Biden's eight motions to dismiss the criminal charges, pointing out that his lawyers had little evidence to bolster some of their arguments.

Scarsi, an appointee of Donald Trump, said he would rule on the motions by April 17. Biden did not attend the hearing.

Led by Abbe Lowell, Biden's legal team contended that intense political pressure from Republican lawmakers and former President Trump had improperly influenced the case, led to the collapse of a plea deal for Biden and prompted prosecutors to "up the ante" and secure far more serious indictments in both Delaware and Los Angeles.

Is there any evidence that pressure from any outside entity influenced the prosecution team? the judge asked Lowell on Wednesday.

"There really is no evidence. You cite to things on the internet, the judge said at another point.

Lowell stressed that a timeline of events showed how prosecutors were improperly influenced, one example being the summoning of special counsel David Weiss to testify before Congress.

Its a timeline, but its a juicy timeline, Lowell said.

Weiss' prosecution team has accused Biden of failing to timely pay his taxes on $7 million of income from 2016 to 2019, a period when prosecutors say he performed very little actual work. Biden paid off his tax debt, with penalties and interest, in 2021.

Read more: Who would lend millions to Hunter Biden? Meet the Hollywood lawyer who has

Three of the nine charges in the indictment are felonies  tax evasion and twice filing false tax returns  and center on how Biden reported his 2018 taxes. Prosecutors allege he misclassified several personal expenses that year as business expenses, such as $30,000 for his daughters tuition, $1,500 to an exotic dancer and $11,500 to an escort, according to the indictment.

Weiss has separately indicted Biden in Delaware for allegedly lying on a federal firearms form.

Biden, 54, has pleaded not guilty in both cases. He filed similar motions to dismiss in the Delaware case, and the judge there also has not ruled.

The pair of indictments came after the collapse of a plea deal in July that would have allowed Biden to avoid a possible felony conviction and prison time, as well as the negative headlines of a trial during his fathers reelection campaign. Now he faces two trials this year, although the case in L.A. is more serious and complex than the Delaware one.

Much of Bidens arguments to dismiss the tax charges center on the months before and after the plea deal fell apart.

Read more: The informant next door: A quiet L.A. life masked Kremlin ties for FBI source accused of lying about Bidens

At that time, Weiss and his team faced a barrage of attacks from Trump over the plea deal, with Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), chair of the House Judiciary Committee, blasting it as a sweetheart" deal. Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler, two Internal Revenue Service agents involved in Bidens six-year criminal investigation, had by then come forward and given rounds of news interviews alleging that their inquiry was marred by political influence and special treatment toward their target because he was the presidents son.

Near the outset of Wednesday's hearing, Lowell said, "Theres nothing regular about how this case was initiated, investigated."

He put up a chart with several bullet points that he said showed "the selective and vindictive" nature of the prosecution.

Among the bullet points: not stopping the IRS agents' "publicity tour"; the reopening of an investigation into FBI informant Alexander Smirnov's now-debunked claims that Hunter Biden and his father received $5 million each from the Ukrainian energy company Burisma; and the appointment of Weiss as special counsel despite repeated statements that this was unnecessary.

David Weiss, the special counsel overseeing the Hunter Biden investigation, in 2023. (Jose Luis Magana / Associated Press)

Prosecutors counter that Bidens argument is a fiction and a "conspiracy theory" that ignores a clear fact: Trump is no longer president and Bidens father oversees the Justice Department.

Assistant U.S. Atty. Derek Hines, a member of Weiss' team, told the judge that "theres no link or causal connection whatsoever to the decision-making in this case" and that this timeline is all theyre left with, with no direct evidence.

Hines rejected the idea that he and other prosecutors were at Trump's beck and call, awaiting the former president's comments on Truth Social.

It is absolutely outrageous [the] types of allegations that theyve brought to the table, Hines said.

Read more: The Republican leading the probe of Hunter Biden has his own shell company and complicated friends

Separately, Bidens lawyers want the case dropped on grounds of outrageous government conduct, arguing in a motion that Shapley and Ziegler, the two IRS agents who claimed to be whistleblowers, carried out "vigilante justice" and trampled on Biden's constitutional right to due process.

But the judge splashed cold water on the argument.

How are the agents responsible for whats in the indictment? Scarsi asked Lowell.

Can I say [prosecutors] saw them on Fox News ... and that that's why that was done? I cant make the connection that that's why that was done," said Lowell, adding, It was those two agents who started the dominoes.

"There's no dominoes," countered Assistant U.S. Atty. Leo Wise, a lead prosecutor. "Wheres the proof that these two guys going on TV has anything to do with what we did?

Biden's lawyers had also cited the maelstrom of political pressure in their quest to enforce an immunity deal that was reached in tandem with the plea deal.

Prosecutors and Bidens lawyers had drawn up whats known as a diversion agreement last summer, which called for Biden to comply with certain terms, such as not using firearms or drugs. As part of the diversion agreement, prosecutors would offer him immunity on some charges, including tax crimes.

Courtroom sketch shows Hunter Biden seated, left, as his defense attorney Abbe Lowell speaks in Los Angeles in January. (Bill Robles / Associated Press)

Prosecutors and Biden had signed the diversion agreement, which Bidens lawyers say renders it binding and valid  even though the plea deal collapsed.

To bolster their argument, the defense points to comments by Wise in July, who said in court that the agreement "is a contract between the parties so its in effect until its either breached or a determination [of breach has been made], period.

Federal prosecutors dispute that the diversion agreement is in force because a federal probation officer in Delaware had not formally approved it.

Scarsi signaled doubt about the immunity clause still being valid despite the fact that the plea deal fell apart, asking, Why would Mr. Biden plead guilty if he already had immunity?

Read more: Column: Trump wants to round up over a million undocumented migrants from California. Heres how he might do it

The remaining motions to dismiss allege technical errors in the case: that one count, based on taxes for 2016, is barred by the statute of limitations; that three counts each contain two offenses in the same charge; and that four of the charges should not have been filed in California, because they say that Biden did not officially reside in the Golden State until summer 2019.

The judge doubted whether he could rule on the venue question.

It seems that this is going to be a question of fact for the jury to decide," Scarsi said. Im hamstrung on making any ruling on venue.

Bidens final motion focuses on the 2019 tax year, arguing that charging him for failing to pay his taxes that year is "selective and vindictive" prosecution. Defense lawyers note that Biden filed his tax return on time that year, which coincided with the IRS' pandemic-related deadline extensions, and paid his taxes two years later, with penalties and interest.

IRS agents Gary Shapley, left, and Joseph Ziegler testify before Congress in December . Both claim they were blocked from pursuing leads during their five-year investigation into Hunter Biden. (Win McNamee / Getty Images)

Bidens lawyers say they have not found a single case in which a defendant filed his tax return on time in 2019 but was charged for not paying on time.

When a taxpayer has paid all they owe under those circumstances, as Mr. Biden has, criminal tax charges simply are not brought," the lawyers wrote.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Fire crews responded to a fire at IHOP, located at 4101 W. Wisconsin Ave., Tuesday morning.

GRAND CHUTE  No one was injured as the Grand Chute IHOP caught fire Tuesday morning, according to the Grand Chute Fire Department.

Firefighters were dispatched to IHOP, 4101 W. Wisconsin Ave., for a report of a fire. Online emergency scanner accounts say the call came in shortly after 8 a.m.

According to the fire department, Outagamie County 911 dispatchers said restaurant employees reported seeing smoke in the restaurant and from an outside vent above the ceiling.

The first crews found a fire above the ceiling panels of the dining room. They extinguished the fire "within minutes," according to a news release from the fire department.

Firefighters located and extinguished other "pockets of fire," which burned a hole in the roof of the building, according to the fire department.

Although the fire was confined to one area of the restaurant, smoke filled the whole building. Fire crews were on scene for about 2 hours.

In a Facebook message, the Grand Chute Fire Department said the building only has a small area protected by fire sprinklers, with the affected area not protected by it.

An investigation into the cause is ongoing, according to the department.

Assisting at the scene were fire department units from the City of Appleton, the Village of Fox Crossing and the Town of Greenville.

Contact Kelli Arseneau at 920-213-3721 or karseneau@gannett.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, at @ArseneauKelli.

This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: IHOP in Grand Chute catches fire; no injuries reported
CHICAGO  The Illinois Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal from Jussie Smollett, the former Empire actor whose convictions for staging a hate crime caused fevered international media attention.

This means that the case, which has continued as Smollett fights his convictions, will carry on a little longer.

A lower appellate court affirmed his convictions for falsely reporting a hate crime to Chicago police in January of 2019 even as Smollett alleged a laundry list of violations in the case handled by special prosecutor Dan Webb after the Cook County states attorneys office controversially dropped all charges.

In a 2-1 decision, the appeals court justices largely rejected the arguments, though Justice Freddrenna Lyle dissented, arguing that Smollett gave up something of value, community service and bond forfeiture, in exchange for a nolle of the whole indictment.

After the decision, Smollett asked the states high court to hear the case, a decision up to the discretion of the justices. In asking the court to review his case, Smollett had argued that the lower courts opinion threatens to upend all informal and formal deferred prosecution agreements.

The case stems from a report Smollett made to police in the early hours of Jan. 29, 2019, when he said two men attacked him in the Loop, hitting him, yelling homophobic slurs and placing a noose around his neck. But in a twist that drew frenzied international attention, prosecutors charged Smollett the following month with disorderly conduct for concocting the hoax with brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, who testified that he paid them to perpetrate the attack.

About a month after prosecutors charged Smollett, they dropped all counts against him noting that he forfeited his $10,000 bond and had done community service in a move that drew sharp criticism. Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx previously handed the case to deputies, saying she had recused herself.

Former Cook County Judge Michael Toomin appointed Webb, a former U.S. attorney, as special prosecutor amid scrutiny around the decision, finding that Foxx did not go through the formal process for recusing herself from the case. Webb later refiled the charges.

In his appeal, Smollett argued that Cook County prosecutors dropping the case resolved it, similar to a deferred prosecution agreement, particularly because he forfeited his bail.

Attorneys for the state, though, among other arguments, contended that prosecutors who drop charges are not precluded from refiling charges in the same case.

In the majority opinion delivered by Justice David Navarro and concurred with by Justice Mary Ellen Coghlan, the justices wrote that Smollett challenges virtually every aspect of the second prosecution that resulted in his convictions and sentence.

The record does not establish that Smollett entered into a nonprosecution agreement with the (Cook County States Attorneys Office), in which the (office) agreed to forgo further prosecution of him in exchange for his performance of community service and the forfeiture of his bond, the opinion reads.

A Cook County judge had sentenced Smollett to 150 days in jail, 30 months of probation and $130,160 in restitution, but his sentence is on hold while the appeal process plays out.

____
The recent case in which asylum was granted to the man who was suspected of attacking a mother and her two daughters with a corrosive substance, and was subsequently found dead in the Thames while on the run, has aroused widespread disquiet.

This case  and others like it  raise the most fundamental questions about our process of dealing with asylum claims. If this is the approach taken by those entrusted by our country with administering the law on asylum it is hardly surprising that the system is itself falling into disrepute.

And other questions also arise.

The decision of the judge in this case does not seem to have been appealed by the Home Office to the Upper Tribunal. There seems to be a degree of confusion as to whether they had the right to appeal and on whether that right was limited to an appeal on a point of law. If the Home Office could have appealed they certainly should have done. If they didnt because they were powerless to do so, then the law should be changed as a matter of urgency, to ensure that they can.

Either way the system must be made to work better. The man concerned, Abdul Shakoor Ezedi, was an Afghan national who had entered the UK illegally in 2016 and was granted asylum on his third appeal after claiming he had converted to Christianity and would be persecuted if he returned to Afghanistan. The number of cases involving alleged conversion to Christianity has attracted a good deal of interest and this case sheds light on this process in a particularly revealing way.

Ezedi had not mentioned his alleged conversion on either of his two previous, unsuccessful appeals. When the judge at the Immigration Tribunal asked him about this the judge said his response was somewhat vague, namely he had  forgotten  to do so. The judge also found that Ezedi had not been honest in several aspects of his account. When asked about his knowledge of Christianity Ezedi claimed to have read the Bible every day for three years but, when asked what the Old Testament was about, replied Jesus Christ.

Ezedi had, in 2018, been convicted of sexual assault and indecent exposure and had been considered so dangerous by the Baptist Church that it drew up a safeguarding contract for the safety of parishioners over his sex assault and exposure convictions. Yet, despite all this, he was granted asylum by Judge O Hanlon at the Immigration Tribunal.

As Tim Loughton has already suggested, there needs to be a full investigation into the tribunal system. It cannot be right, as he says, that tribunals seem to think they know better and overrule the detailed work that the Home Office has already done.

Of course people genuinely fleeing persecution should be granted asylum, but many of us have long been puzzled by the sharp discrepancy between the proportion of asylum claims accepted in this country compared to our European neighbours. Our approval rate for asylum seekers is now more than double that of countries such as France (30.6 per cent) and Sweden (32.2 per cent). It is also about 50 per cent higher than southern EU nations such as Italy (46 per cent) and Greece (52.9 per cent), both of which have faced surges of illegal migration across the Mediterranean.

The Ezedi case seems to provide at least part of the explanation. It should not be allowed to happen again.

Lord Howard is a former Home Secretary

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A fisherman colony alongside commercial buildings in the Indian city of Mumbai, now Asias billionaire capital. Credit - Dhiraj SinghBloomberg/Getty Images

A new study from the World Inequality Lab finds that the present-day golden era of Indian billionaires has produced soaring income inequality in Indianow among the highest in the world and starker than in the U.S., Brazil, and South Africa. The gap between Indias rich and poor is now so wide that by some measures, the distribution of income in India was more equitable under British colonial rule than it is now, according to the group of economists who co-authored the study, including the renowned French economist Thomas Piketty.

The current total number of billionaires in India is peaking at 271, with 94 new billionaires added in 2023 alone, according to Hurun Research Institutes 2024 global rich list published Tuesday. Thats more new billionaires than in any country other than the U.S., with a collective wealth that amounts to nearly $1 trillionor 7% of the worlds total wealth. A handful of Indian tycoons, such as Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, and Sajjan Jindal, are now mingling in the same circles as Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk, some of the worlds richest people.

The Billionaire Raj headed by Indias modern bourgeoisie is now more unequal than the British Raj headed by the colonialist forces, the authors write.

The observation is particularly stark when considering India is now hailed as an 8% GDP growth economy, according to Barclays Research, with some projecting that India is poised to surpass Japan and Germany to become the worlds third-largest economy by 2027.

But the authors of the World Inequality Lab study reached this conclusion by tracking how much of Indias total income, as well as wealth, is held by the countrys top 1%. While income refers to the sum of earnings, interest on savings, investments and other sources, wealth (or net worth) is the total value of assets owned by an individual or group. The authors combined national income accounts, wealth aggregates, tax tabulations, rich lists, and surveys on income, consumption, and wealth to present the study's findings.

Read More: Why Indias Next Election Will Last 44 Days

For income, the economists looked at annual tax tabulations released by both the British and Indian governments since 1922. They found that even during the highest recorded period of inequality in India, which occurred during the inter-war colonial period from the 1930s until Indias independence in 1947, the top 1% held around 20 to 21% of the countrys national income. Today, the 1% holds 22.6% of the countrys income.

Similarly, the economists also tracked the dynamics of wealth inequality, beginning in 1961, when the Indian government first began conducting large-scale household surveys on wealth, debt and assets. By combining this research with information from the Forbes Billionaire Index, the authors found that Indias top 1% had access to a staggering 40.1% of national wealth.

Because the number of Indian billionaires shot up from one in 1991 to 162 in 2022, the total net wealth of these individuals over this period as a share of Indias net national income boomed from under 1% in 1991 to a whopping 25% in 2022, the authors said.

The report also found that the rise in inequality had been particularly pronounced since the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party first came to power in 2014. Over the last decade, major political and economic reforms have led to an authoritarian government with centralization of decision-making power, coupled with a growing nexus between big business and government, the report states. This, they say, was likely to facilitate disproportionate influence on society and government.

They added that average Indians, and not just the Indian elite, could still stand to gain from globalization if the government made more public investments in health, education, and nutrition. Moreover, a super tax of 2% on the net wealth of the 167 wealthiest Indian families in 2022-23 would result in 0.5% of national income in revenues, and create valuable fiscal space to facilitate such investments, the authors argued.

Until the government makes such investments, however, the authors caution against the possibility of Indias slide toward plutocracy. The country was once a role model among post-colonial nations for upholding the integrity of various key institutions, the authors say, and they point out that even the standard of economic data in India to study inequality has declined recently.

If only for this reason, income and wealth inequality in India must be closely tracked and challenged, the authors say.

Write to Astha Rajvanshi at astha.rajvanshi@time.com.
Gregory Jones, 39, of Blairsville, entered a guilty plea for charges related to a sexual assault of a minor, District Attorney Robert Manzi announced.

Jones pleaded guilty to involuntary deviant sexual intercourse of a victim less than 16 years old; statutory sexual assault, defendant 11 years older than minor victim; corruption of minors; aggravated indecent assault, victim less than 16 years old; and indecent assault of a victim less than 16 years old.

President Judge Thomas M. Bianco ordered that Jones be evaluated by the sexual offender assessment board before sentencing. He also ordered a full pre-sentence investigation report to be completed by the Indiana County Probation Department.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 26.

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Prabowo Subianto An image of Indonesian election winnerattending a ceremony in late February 2024 has circulated with a false claim that it shows him wearing a presidential pin before being sworn in as president. Posts shared thousands of times claimed Prabowo's pin was identical to one worn by Indonesian President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo. But a closer look at pictures from the ceremony show Prabowo and Jokowi wore differently shaped pins.

"There is something odd during the swearing-in ceremony of the new minister. Jokowi and Prabowo are both wearing the presidential pins," read part of an Indonesian-language post shared here on social media platform X on February 23, 2024.

"Hello, @KPU_ID, is Prabowo officially the Indonesian President?" it added, tagging Indonesia's election commission (archived link).

Photos included in the post, which has been shared more than 3,600 times, show Indonesian President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo and Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto.

The photos highlight similar looking pins worn by Jokowi and Prabowo in blue.

Screenshot of the false X post, captured on March 19, 2024

The photos are screenshots from Indonesian news outlet Kompas TV's broadcast of an official swearing-in ceremony of new ministers, which took place in the presidential palace in Jakarta on February 21, 2024 (archived link).

They are taken from the video's 2:06 and the 3:87 marks.

The claim circulated as Prabowo looked set to win the Indonesian presidential election, which was held on February 14, 2024.

The 72-year-old former general -- who ran with Jokowi's eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka -- declared victory hours after polling stations closed with preliminary counts indicating he would win the presidency at his third attempt.

More than a month later, on March 20, the election commission's final count confirmed Prabowo had won the poll, beating two rivals who vowed to file legal complaints about the vote.

The president-elect will take office in October 2024.

Similar claims also appeared on other social media platforms, such as TikTok here and here and SnackVideo here and here -- racking up more than 122,000 views and 120 shares.

But Prabowo was not pictured wearing a presidential pin at the ceremony.

Ministers' emblem

A combination of reverse image and keyword searches found clearer photos of Prabowo and Jokowi taken during the ceremony at the State Palace showing differences in the pins worn by the two politicians.

Photos of Prabowo were published in a report by local newspaper Jawa Pos here as well as on the website of the Regional Representative Council' deputy speaker here (archived links here and here).

Photos of Jokowi at the same event were published on the Indonesian president's website (archived link).

Prabowo's pin can be seen to feature a circle and a ribbon, while Jokowi's pin features a star within a circle.

Below are screenshot comparisons of Prabowo's pin (top) and Jokowi's pin (bottom), as seen in photos published by Jawa Pos and the Indonesian president's website:

Screenshot comparisons of Prabowo's pin (top) and Jokowi's pin (bottom)

Prabowo has worn the same-pin on other official occasions, for example during a meeting with Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles on February 23, 2024.

An official document from Indonesia's Ministry of State Secretariat, explains how the official emblems for the president, vice president, cabinet ministers and minister-level officials differ (archived link).

According to the document, the president's and the vice president's emblem should be "made of material which is strong, gold in colour, and circular in shape and consisting of the following elements: (a) star; as well as, (b) cotton and rice."

Meanwhile, for the ministers or minister-level officials, the emblem should be "made of strong material, and shaped like a circle of the following elements: (a) shield in the National Emblem; (b) cotton and rice; as well as, (c) ribbon that says NAYAKA."

Below are screenshots of the emblem for the president and vice president (left) and the emblem for ministers (right), taken from the official document:

Screenshots of the emblem for the president and vice president (left) and the emblem for ministers (right)

AFP has previously debunked other misinformation related to the 2024 Indonesia elections here.
Russia has decided to create a new "Dnipro River Flotilla" to hinder Ukrainian operations such as establishing a bridgehead in Krynky on the left bank of the Kherson region. However, the enemy ships will be vulnerable to surface drones, which the Defense Forces have already successfully used in the Black Sea.

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This was stated by British intelligence. Its report was published on March 27 on the X platform (formerly Twitter) account of the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The Minister of Defense of the aggressor country, Russia, Sergei Shoigu, announced plans to form a "Dnipro River Flotilla" and a boat brigade on March 20, 2024. Most likely, the new unit will be responsible for combat operations on the Dnipro waterways and the islands of the Kherson region.

The enemy "flotilla" is likely to be subordinated to the Dnipro military group. The occupiers formed the latter after the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The aggressor, according to the British military, wants to prevent and obstruct Ukrainian operations across the Dnipro River, such as the creation and maintenance of a bridgehead in Krynky.

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"Russian and Ukrainian forces lost a large number of personnel and equipment during the attacks on Krynky," the intelligence report says.

The new enemy formation will be engaged in river patrols, while the enemy's Black Sea Fleet will operate further out in the eastern part of the Black Sea.

"The Dnipro military flotilla is likely to be vulnerable to Ukrainian unmanned surface vehicles, which effectively destroy Russian ships operating in the Black Sea," the British Defense Ministry said.

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Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse has blocked shipments in and out of the Port of Baltimore.

The port is a key shipping point for cars, construction and farm equipment, and coal.

It could take months to clear the bridge wreckage and reopen the port to ships.

After a cargo ship crashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge and caused it to collapse, shipments in and out of the Port of Baltimore could be blocked for weeks.

The Dali container ship collided with one of the bridge's support beams early Tuesday morning, causing large portions of the 1.6-mile bridge to collapse into the Patapsco River, with the wreckage effectively blocking ships from moving in and out of the Port of Baltimore.

The port is currently closed to vessels until further notice, with officials saying it's unclear when it will be able to reopen.

Industry experts say it could take months and that an extended disruption could have major economic consequences, as well as direct impacts on the port's biggest imports and exports.

"If the port is closed, it's going to impact all of them," Daraius Irani, chief economist for the Regional Economic Studies Institute at Towson University, told Business Insider.

The biggest point of entry for imported cars

The Port of Baltimore is the top port in the US for roll-on/roll-off cargo, which refers to wheeled cargo like vehicles, construction equipment, and agriculture equipment, according to the port.

In 2023, the port handled 847,158 automobiles and light trucks  more than any other US port for the thirteenth straight year  according to data from the Port of Baltimore.

"Baltimore is relatively unique in having the infrastructure to accept the cars and to store them until they ultimately reach their final destination," Anirban Basu, economist, founder, and CEO of Baltimore-based Sage Policy Group, told BI.

Roll-on/roll-off cargo is especially difficult to divert to other ports, in part because it generally takes up a lot of space and requires specific handling.

General Motors told BI that it expects the collapse to have a "minimal impact" on their operations. "Our thoughts are with those who were affected and the Baltimore community," the statement said, adding: "We are working to re-route any vehicle shipments to other ports as the recovery work continues."

A spokesperson from Ford said, "Where workarounds are necessary, our team has already secured shipping alternatives."

The Port of Baltimore said it handled 1.3 million tons of imported roll-on/roll-off cargo in 2023, including heavy farm and construction equipment.

Basu said Caterpillar, a maker of construction, mining, and agricultural equipment, also moves much of its product through the Port of Baltimore. Caterpillar did not immediately respond to a request for comment from BI.

The Port of Baltimore is the top US port for roll-on/roll-off cargo, like cars and construction machinery. halbergman/Getty Images

Coal, gypsum, and sugar

In 2022, coal was among the top export commodities by weight moved through the Port of Baltimore. In 2023, the port ranked second in the US for coal exports, according to the port.

"The Port of Baltimore, over time, has developed the ability to store and then load coal onto ships and have those ships go places long and far, including India," Basu said, noting Maryland's proximity to West Virginia and coal country. "And so tons of coal are set not to be sent abroad in the near term as the port suffers this lack of operability."

In 2023, the Port of Baltimore was also the top US port for imported gypsum, a mineral commonly used in fertilizer and construction material, and imported sugar, according to the port, which has a Domino Sugar refinery operating nearby.

ASR Group, whose companies include Domino Sugar and C&H Sugar, told BI in an emailed statement they do not expect any short-term impacts to their operations in Baltimore.

"The Baltimore Refinery has six to eight weeks of raw sugar supply on hand with a ship currently discharging at the refinery's dock and another that finished unloading on Monday, March 25," the statement said. "ASR Group also owns a network of production facilities and warehouses across the US that all currently have healthy inventories of finished products and can be utilized if necessary."

Paper, chocolate, and ice cream

Many other items pass through the port every day. According to the port, in 2022, that included 1,000 tons of aircraft and parts, 793,695 tons of paper, 24,900 tons of chocolate, and $59.4 million worth of ice cream.

In 2023, 444,000 cruise ship passengers also departed from the terminal at the Port of Baltimore.

How much the port closure will impact each of these industries remains to be seen. "It really just depends on how much stuff was there before this accident happened," economist Irani said.

A research briefing from Oxford Economics said the bridge collapse will likely have a greater impact on the local Baltimore economy than on a national level.

"There will likely be some temporary disruptions to certain industries, including automakers, but nothing that warrants an immediate change to our baseline forecast," the briefing said. "Ultimately, the duration of the disruptions at the Port of Baltimore, along with how quickly trade can be rerouted, will determine the economic costs.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The Republican National Committee is asking prospective job candidates if they believe the 2020 election was stolen in a litmus tests of sorts following the Trump-backed purge of the party committee, according to the Washington Post.

Trump advisers have quizzed multiple employees who worked in key 2024 states about their views on the 2020 election, according to the report.

Was the 2020 election stolen? one prospective employee recalled being asked in a room with two top Trump advisers.

The question has startled some potential employees who view it as questioning their loyalty to Trump, according to the Post.

If you say the election wasnt stolen, do you really think youre going to get hired? one former RNC employee questioned.

Candidates who worked on the front line in battleground states or are currently in states where fraud allegations have been prevalent were asked about their work experience, RNC and Trump spokeswoman Danielle Alvarez said in a statement to the Post on Tuesday. We want experienced staff with meaningful views on how elections are won and lost and real experience-based opinions about what happens in the trenches.

RNC staff was let go en masse in early March but employees could reapply for jobs, and the process has included an interview with Trump advisers.

The problem with Trumpism is that despite bringing in very smart and very capable people, if you want to play Trumps game, you have to back him up on everything he says. Claims about the election being stolen is kind of the last frontier of that, GOP strategist Doug Heye, a former communications direct for the RNC, told the Post.

This is insane even for a Trumpian RNC, tweeted Democratic election attorney Marc Elias, who beat back numerous TrumpWorld lawsuits aimed at overturning his 2020 loss. It means that everyone in the place  every researcher, lawyer, fundraiser, receptionist  is an avowed election denier. How does the Committee ever recover from this? Maybe the answer is it shouldn't.

How said, wrote former Trump White House aide Alyssa Farah Griffin. Lying that the election was stolen is now a prerequisite to work at the RNC. A generation of young operatives will have a choice to make: tell the truth or lie.

Instead of having employees based in D.C., Trumps advisers have told prospective employees they may be expected to move to Palm Beach, Fla., near the former presidents Mar-a-Lago resort.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

The process came about after Trump grew disillusioned with RNC leadership under former chair Ronna McDaniel. Trump has complained that the RNC did not focus enough on election integrity or boosting his false claims that the election was stolen.

Trump backed a takeover by longtime North Carolina loyalist Michael Whatley and daughter-in-law Lara Trump, who have since brought in attorney Christina Bobb, who pushed numerous false election claims, as senior counsel for election integrity.

Meanwhile, McDaniel was hired and quickly unhired by NBC News after multiple hosts complained on air that the network hired someone who backed Trumps election lies.

Wow! Ronna McDaniel got fired by Fake News NBC, Trump wrote on Truth Social Tuesday. She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear. It leaves her in a very strange place, its called NEVER NEVERLAND, and its not a place you want to be.
DENVER (KDVR)  An internal investigation by the Glendale Police Department found that two officers allegedly mishandled evidence in several cases.

On Tuesday, FOX31 learned that two officers were under investigation, but the details of the case were unclear. On Wednesday, FOX31 obtained a copy of the investigation summary.

According to the Glendale Police Department, in February the department discovered two officers, Joseph Lamb and Michael Sweeney, did not follow procedures when handling property. The department then initiated an internal investigation.

Good Samaritan helps man who was stabbed after argument

The investigation summary alleges that the two officers mishandled evidence in four separate cases stemming from Feb. 12-21.

Case 1: Items from suspects backpack found in trashcan

In the first case, Lamb and Sweeney discovered a stolen scooter at a Glendale hotel. The officers arrested the suspect who was associated with the scooter.

The suspect was wearing a black backpack that was obtained by officers during the arrest. When Lamb and Sweeney searched the bag, they found 16 items, including a stolen credit card, folding knives and a doorbell camera.

According to the Glendale Police Department, eight of the items were properly logged into evidence, but seven items were found in a trashcan. The final item, a Geeni doorbell camera, was never found.

The department interviewed Lamb and Sweeney about the case, and they said they separated items from the backpack that they believed to be evidence and threw the ones that were not deemed as evidence in the trashcan.

Lamb also told the department he threw the doorbell camera into the trash at the dispatch center after clearing the serial number.

Because the officers threw away the evidence and property that was in the suspects possession at the time of his arrest, the Glendale Police Department had to notify the 18th Judicial District Attorneys Office. The charges against the suspect were then dropped.

Another officer, listed as Anthony Martinez in the report, sustained violations in this case after the department said he never drafted a supplemental report on a felony case until the morning of the internal affairs investigation.

4 hospital investigations find no serious wrongdoing, despite patient suicide

The sergeant who was the supervisor in this case, Sgt. Montour, also sustained a violation after allegedly letting Lamb conduct a use of force interview on his own use of force.

Lamb, Sweeney, Martinez and Montour all sustained violations.

Case 2: Officers pursue suspect without justified cause

On Feb. 19, Lamb and Sweeney were called to a business on a report of two vehicles without license plates circling the parking lot. When the officers arrived on scene, the police department said they attempted a traffic stop, but the suspect vehicle accelerated towards Cherry Creek Drive South.

Sweeney was driving the marked patrol car and allegedly followed the car down Cherry Creek Drive South, but once the suspect car turned onto South Colorado Boulevard, the officers stopped following them.

Lamb and Sweeney then returned to the business where the police department said they learned three people had run out of the store and into a nearby restaurant.

According to the police department, Lamb and Sweeney caught up to the three people and placed a male and female into custody.

During a search, the department said the female had a small clutch that contained several debit cards that belonged to other people.

Montour and Sgt. Farley with the Glendale Police Department were on duty during this case and were monitoring radio traffic. According to the department, Lamb and Sweeneys actions during the case did not generate a need for a pursuit, but the offense report detailing the pursuit was approved by Montour.

Lamb, Sweeney, Montour and Farley all sustained violations in this case.

Case 3: Incorrect plates thrown in trash

On Feb. 20, Lamb and Sweeney contacted several people standing outside a Glendale hotel. According to the department, the people were around a car that had incorrect plates attached, although, the car and plates were not stolen.

According to the department, Sweeney removed the plates from the car, folded them up and threw them in the evidence intake trash.

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In the incident report, the department said Sweeney did not mention that he removed and destroyed the plates in his report.

The report was then approved by Montour.

According to the department, Sweeney sustained violations in this case.

Case 4: Drugs and counterfeit money thrown in trash

In the final case documented by the Glendale Police Department, on Feb. 14, Lamb was riding with his wife when he located a female with outstanding warrants.

Lamb and his wife transported the suspect to the Arapahoe County Detention Center.

According to the department, following a search of the female, methamphetamine, cocaine and counterfeit money were found. Lamb took the evidence back to the police station and allegedly threw them into the evidence intake trash.

The department said Lamb never mentioned the drugs or counterfeit money in his report, and he did not measure the drugs or charge the female with the possession of the items.

The department also said Lamb was riding with his wife against department policy.

Montour was the one who allegedly allowed Lambs wife to be with him, per the investigation summary. Two other sergeants, Gillis and Farley, were on the two final hours of their shifts, but the department said they should have known that Lamb was riding with his wife.

Jury awards couple $21M for false allegations of child abuse during custody battle

In this case, Lamb, Montour, Gillis, and Farley all sustained violations.

Internal investigation is complete

Following the four cases, the Glendale Police Department said they had completed the internal investigation and determined that department policies were violated.

The department said the appropriate employees were disciplined but did not specifically say what was done.

The Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office has also agreed to conduct an external interview in these cases.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
ISLE OF WIGHT, Va. (WAVY)  The Isle of Wight County Schools has voted to approve a snow day in May.

The school calendar includes days built in to account for unforeseen missed days, due to events like severe weather.

The extra snow day is scheduled for May 24, the Friday before Memorial Day.

According to the school board, this extra day will hopefully allow an extra day for both students and staff to recharge before the school year starts to wrap up.

The extra day was decided after a March 14 School Board meeting, as members discussed how little time was missed in schools for the year.

To view the revised school calendar, visit the Isle of Wight County Schools website here.

Check with WAVY.com for more updates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
There has been widespread destruction in Gaza

The Republic of Ireland will intervene in the case against Israel under the Genocide Convention at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The ICJ has been asked to consider whether Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

Israel rejects the allegations as "baseless". South Africa brought the case to the court - which is the top court of the United Nations (UN).

Ireland's Tanaiste (deputy prime minister) and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin announced on Wednesday that he had directed officials to commence work on a Declaration of Intervention under Article 63 of the statute of the ICJ.

Interventions by state parties under Article 63 do not take a specific side on whether genocide has been committed by Israel.

Ireland will not be asserting if genocide is being committed, but asserting its interpretation of the Genocide Convention.

This is the same approach taken by Ireland in the Ukraine v Russia case.

Work on the intervention is likely to take a number of months.

What is the ICJ?

Based in the Hague, in the Netherlands, it was established after World War Two, to settle disputes between states.

It also gives advisory opinions on legal matters, which is what it is being asked to do with Israel.

Unlike the International Criminal Court (ICC), the ICJ cannot prosecute individuals for crimes of the utmost severity, such as genocide.

But its opinions carry weight with the UN and other international institutions.

UN ceasfire resolution

Ireland is to liaise closely with a number of international partners, who have also confirmed their intention to intervene.

Belgium, Nicaragua and France have all stated their intentions to formally do so.

The case itself is set to take a number of years.

"The situation could not be more stark; half the population of Gaza face imminent famine and 100% of the population face acute food insecurity," Mr Martin said on Wednesday.

"Ireland will be intervening.

It is for the court to determine whether genocide is being committed.

"But I want to be clear in reiterating what I have said many times in the last few months; what we saw on 7 October in Israel, and what we are seeing in Gaza now, represents the blatant violation of international humanitarian law on a mass scale.

"It has to stop. The view of the international community is clear. Enough is enough."

South Africa alleges Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinians, following Hamas's 7 October attack.

Hundreds of Hamas gunmen crossed from the Gaza Strip into southern Israel, killing 1,200 people, mainly civilians, and taking about 240 hostages back to Gaza.

Since Israel launched its military campaign against Hamas in response, more than 32,400 people, mainly women and children, have been killed in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

The UN Security Council has adopted a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire, as well as the release of hostages.

Israel was directed by the ICJ in January to take all additional measures to ensure that civilian lives had been protected, however sources within the Department of Foreign Affairs said the Irish government did not believe this had been done to an acceptable standard.

This is based on evidence provided by UN partners.

Israel has said it has taken a raft of measures to avoid civil casualties.

Its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "It is not we who have come to perpetrate genocide, it is Hamas.

"It would murder all of us if it could.

"In contrast, the IDF [Israel Defense Forces] is acting as morally as possible."
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Its a new era for the Iroquois Central School District, as it revealed its new Red Hawks mascot logo design Tuesday.

The logo, which is conceptual, was revealed by the Iroquois Board of Education. It features a menacing-looking hawk looking to its right. The school said the logo will incorporate options for the word Iroquois, the letter I or another object, such as a shield.

Iroquois new Red Hawks logo. Photo: Iroquois Central School District

The school district announced its new Red Hawks mascot in January following a months-long process that included two rounds of online voting. Voters selected the Red Hawks moniker over the remaining top four of Inferno, Iron Horses, Otters and Wolves.

The district began the process of shedding its former mascot Chiefs, after the New York State Board of Regents April 2023 decision to ban the use of Native American names and imagery by schools.

Several other Western New York schools went through similar rebrandings in accordance with the states decision, including Jamestown and Tonawanda.

Latest Local News

Adam Gorski is a Buffalo native who joined the News 4 team in 2022. You can find more of his work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
The terrorist attack on Moscow's Crocus City concert hall was the worst attack in Russia in over 20 years, leaving 137 people dead and over 180 wounded, and reminds Russia and the West that the threat from ISIS and international terrorism hasn't gone away.

Gunmen, identified by Russian media as Tajik nationals, entered the concert hall with automatic weapons and indiscriminately opened fire in the 6,200-seat venue. The Islamic State's affiliate in Afghanistan, known as the Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), claimed responsibility for the brutal attack on concertgoers.

While the ISIS caliphate that spanned across Iraq and Syria was largely defeated by the U.S. and its mostly Kurdish ally there, the Afghan chapter of ISIS has been one of the most active post-caliphate branches. It was responsible for the suicide attack on Kabul airport in August 2021 that killed 13 American service members amid the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

MOSCOW ATTACK SHOWS PUTINS GRIP ON RUSSIA NOT NEARLY AS TIGHT AS WE THINK, SAYS EX-US AMBASSADOR TO UKRAINE

The world's attention has once again returned to Afghanistan over two years since the Taliban regained control after the U.S. withdrawal in 2021.

"It seems that ISIS-K has exploited the American withdrawal and has successfully tapped into recruits, especially from Afghanistan and Central Asia," Max Abrahms, terrorism expert and professor of political science at Northeastern University, told Fox News Digital. The deadly attack in Moscow comes after ISIS claimed responsibility for twin suicide bombings in January that killed at least 95 people commemorating the death of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, head of the Qud's Forces of Iran's Revolutionary Guard, who was killed in a U.S. drone strike in 2020.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

A member loyal to the Islamic State waves an ISIS flag in Raqqa June 29, 2014.

It's also no surprise that ISIS-K would target Russia, according to Ivana Stradner, a research fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies who focuses on Russian information security. Stradner told Fox News Digital that Russian actions in Syria and Moscows ties to Iran also play an important role in ISIS' decision to challenge the Kremlin. Russia intervened in the Syrian civil war in 2015 to prop up the Assad regime, at the time on the verge of collapse. Moscow's treatment of Muslim minorities in Russia and the brutal wars against Chechnya are also long-standing grievances.

ISIS-K was formed in 2015 and operates primarily in Afghanistan but has expanded across the world, including in Russia's backyard of Central Asia. It may share a similar ideology with the Taliban, but remains a grave danger to their rule as it looks to undermine the regime and strike at foreign interests in Afghanistan.

WITH TALIBAN VICTORY, AFGHANISTAN COULD BECOME THE 'SECOND SCHOOL OF JIHADISM'

Abrahms says many countries are now grappling with the question of what to do with ISIS and other terrorist networks that operate in unstable nations with weak governance. "Naturally, they will begin to think more seriously about arming relative moderates in Afghanistan and other rebel forces could be empowered as well insofar as they brand themselves as anti-ISIS." Abrahms said.

The Afghan National Resistance Front (NRF) is seen by some as the most viable Afghan resistance unit, and it has stepped up its attacks against the Taliban in recent months. Dislodging the Taliban and reinstalling the Afghan Republic remains the NRF's main objective, but they have also fought against ISIS-K and other networks. Terrorist groups like ISIS-K also challenge the Taliban's rule, but aren't looking to restore a secular and democratic Afghanistan. However, their coordinated attack in Moscow demonstrated the group's ability to strike internationally.

"ISIS-K's expansion is directly the result of the Taliban allowing terror networks and foreign fighters to flood Afghanistan," Ali Maisam Nazary, head of foreign relations for the NRF, told Fox News Digital.

"These groups are preparing themselves inside Afghanistan for attacks on a larger scale than Moscow against the West and regional countries in the years to come," Nazary warned.

TALIBAN HAVE A 2-FRONT WAR HEADED THEIR WAY

The NRF, which primarily operated in northeastern Afghanistan and concentrated operations in the Panjshir Valley, recently opened a new front in western Afghanistan and is increasing operations in Herat City. Nazary notes that within the last several weeks, NRF forces executed attacks in Kabul and will be intensifying their efforts starting this spring and summer. These operations, Nazary claims, underscore the increased support for the NRF across Afghanistan, and showcase their strategic capabilities in confronting the Taliban.

The Taliban normally downplay the threat posed by the NRF and other armed groups, claiming they have restored stability to Afghanistan since the downfall of the U.S.-backed government. While the NRF is quick to highlight its success in its attacks against the Taliban, the U.S. Intelligence Communitys Annual Threat Assessment, released on March 11 by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, only briefly mentions Afghanistan. It states that the Taliban regime has strengthened its power and suppressed anti-Taliban groups like the NRF and ISIS-K.

The threat assessment provides a short but bleak outlook for the future of Afghan resistance groups.

"However, near-term prospects for regime-threatening resistance remain low because large swathes of the Afghan public are weary of war and fearful of Taliban reprisals, and armed remnants lack strong leadership and external support," the document states.

TALIBAN SAYS WOMEN LOSE VALUE IF MEN CAN SEE THEIR FACES IN PUBLIC: 'SHOULD BE HIDDEN'

The resistance group has been in a two-year campaign to gain greater international recognition and support for their efforts to fight the Taliban and ISIS-K and hopes to organize a unified political opposition to govern Afghanistan without the Taliban. Unfortunately for the NRF and their supporters, they have so far failed to gain international recognition from another state, lack external financial backing and have not been endorsed by the U.S.

"The United States does not support further armed conflict in Afghanistan. The country has been at war for 46 years. We do not want to see Afghanistan at war, and Afghans tell us they dont want conflict either," a State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital.

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Fatemeh Aman, a non-resident senior fellow at the Middle East Institute in Washington, D.C., told Fox News Digital that the NRF is largely respected and has sympathy from many Afghans, but it is still not sufficient.

"Just by guerrilla warfare and without active support from the population, external moral and military support, and even some diplomatic interventions, it may be difficult to achieve the goal of liberating Afghanistan," Aman said.





Original article source: ISIS-K attack in Moscow highlights growing terror threat from Afghanistan
Hamas leaders Mohammed Deif, left, Marwan Issa, centre, and Yahya Sinwar, right. Issa was killed in an air strike this month

Israel may not be able to destroy Hamas despite five months of intense fighting in Gaza, intelligence officials have admitted.

The main objective of the Gaza invasion faces failure as international support turns against Israel, sources warned.

Israel believes it has dismantled Hamass main command and control structure in central and northern Gaza but pockets of guerrilla resistance remain.

Senior officials told The Telegraph four out of an original 24 Hamas battalions remain completely untouched after fleeing to safety in Rafah, which Israel is preparing to invade.

But Israel believes it may be too late to find and destroy them as the US has turned its back on Israel.

Pressure on Israel

The US this week allowed the passage of a UN resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire after months of backing Israels right to defend itself. Frustrations have grown in the White House over the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

If youd asked me this a month ago, I would definitely say yes [we can eliminate Hamas] because at that time the Americans were backing Israel, an Israeli intelligence source said. They suggested this assessment had now changed.

Hamas is focused on surviving until the summer, they warned, when the US election campaign begins and support for Israel is likely to wane further.

The pressure is mounting on Israel to reach some sort of a deal, which means Hamas could survive. Both Hamas and the Iranians are playing on that, the source said.

Hamas forces scattered

The latest assessment comes as the IDF have been engaging with resurgent Hamas units in parts of Gaza they had previously cleared. Fighting has been raging since March 18 at Al-Shifa hospital, which Israel first raided in December

Months of urban warfare has pushed Hamas out of major strongholds, and Israeli intelligence say over 11,000 terrorists have been killed in addition to 15 top commanders.

Hamass forces, which were once believed to be more than 35,000-strong, are now scattered. Eighteen battalions are thought to have been significantly damaged.

Hamas no longer operates as an army. Its units have been eradicated and they dont have a central command and control, an IDF source in the southern command said.

Each unit is acting independently, doing what they think they should do, but there is no control centre that can move units around, they added.

They are in a very bad position, but saying that, they turned into the old style of guerrilla warfare. Theyre operating as guerrilla terrorists, and when you operate like this, you dont need the infrastructure and installations, you go from house to house, hide, use the RPGs [rocket propelled grenades], the grenades, and disappear.

Theyve lost their commanders so theyre really acting independently. A lot of them are surrendering. A lot have lost the motivation and the urge to fight and you can see this as the numbers of Israeli casualties have reduced significantly. Hamas are not fighting.

Senior leadership in Rafah

What remains of the senior leadership team is now in Rafah, the only remaining urban centre that the IDFs ground teams have not reached. Marwan Issa, Hamas number three in command, was confirmed dead by Israel on Tuesday.

Communications between Yahya Sinwar, the groups leader, and remaining pockets of resistance have relied on hand delivered notes since the first weeks of the invasion.

With communications networks destroyed, there are some signs of disunity and a loss of faith in the military leadership. One Hamas commander, 54, told The Telegraph: We have a lot of uncertainty and we dont know what direction to go in next. We dont know which path to take.

He said in spite of the suffering, the operation has become a thing of pride to Palestinians and the Arab world.

He suggested the original Oct 7 operation took some Hamas militants by surprise, and said the operation did not go as planned.

Our plan with the three leaders [Yahya Sinwar, Marwan Issa and Mohammed Deif] was to get in, we kill, we kidnap soldiers, not civilians. We lost thousands of soldiers and by the borders there are thousands of corpses and nobody can go and take them.

Hamas intelligence limited

Israeli intelligence officials said the Hamas central command no longer has a clear picture of whats going on with the rest of its fighters in Gaza, buried deep underground in the tunnel network.

Their intelligence is very limited, they dont have surveillance cameras in every place like they used to have since we destroyed them, so the overall picture is very very limited an Israeli intelligence source said.

Even those above ground are on the move all the time. You dont really see these big orchestrated attacks on Israel like we saw at the beginning of the war when we entered Gaza.

Swathes of Hamass 300-mile tunnel network underneath Gaza has been destroyed, the IDF believes. However, some underground weapons production facilities are thought to remain intact.

Israel believes its best chance of destroying Hamas lies with entering Rafah.

The US doesnt support going into Rafah which they did before, so the cards right now are not good, meaning Israel has to do something dramatic and drastic to change the momentum and climate, the source said.

We have to go into Rafah, one way or another, but very aggressively, they insisted, without which, the chances of Hamass survival look more likely.

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Israel has agreed to provide security for the temporary pier the U.S. military is planning to build in Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid to civilians on the brink of famine, according to two U.S. officials familiar with the plans.

Under the plans being discussed, which have not yet been finalized, the Israel Defense Forces would establish a security bubble to protect the U.S. personnel building the pier as well as the individuals involved in offloading and distributing the aid, said one of the officials, both of whom were granted anonymity to speak about sensitive discussions.

The IDF would also be responsible for physically securing the pier to the beach, the officials said.

The U.S. is still in the planning stages and nothing has been finalized, the officials stressed. Another partner country may also be involved in providing some security, depending on where in Gaza the pier is ultimately built, they said.

A spokesperson for the IDF said it will be coordinating with the U.S. military to facilitate the project indeed but declined to provide specifics.

The pier was promised by President Joe Biden in his State of the Union address earlier this month amid concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where more than 30,000 people have died since the war began, according to Gaza authorities, and where U.N. officials have warned famine is imminent.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed the importance of getting more humanitarian aid into Gaza, including security for the temporary pier, with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant during a meeting at the Pentagon on Tuesday, according to the second U.S. official.



A Pentagon spokesperson declined to comment for this story. A spokesperson for the National Security Council did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The development shows that plans for the pier, which the Biden administration announced hastily after dozens of Palestinians were killed in February while scrambling for aid, are slowly coming together. Still, many questions remain about the project, even as several U.S. Army ships are already well on their way to Gaza.

The plan is already complex: A team of U.S. military personnel will construct a floating pier 3 to 5 miles off shore and a 1,800-foot floating causeway that will be anchored to the beach. Once the infrastructure is in place, vessels will be able to offload aid onto the pier, where small U.S. boats will then bring it to the causeway. From there, it will be taken to trucks and then distributed into Gaza.

U.S. officials have said Israel will play a role in securing the pier, but have not specified what that role would be.

The Pentagon expects the pier will take up to 60 days to complete, but will ultimately deliver more than 2 million meals. U.S. officials argue it will ultimately be a more efficient way of delivering aid in bulk to the people of Gaza.

But lawmakers from both parties have called for briefings about how the mission will actually work, including who will be responsible for ensuring the safety of the service members constructing the pier and who will distribute the aid once it arrives.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), a senior Armed Services Committee member, said last week that he has very serious questions about how the construction will be done, with the assurance of safety to our troops. Still, he added: Im convinced that this kind of humanitarian effort is absolutely necessary.

Republicans, meanwhile, have harsher words for the idea. House Armed Services Chair Mike Rogers (R-Ala.) argued last week that the decision was politically motivated.

I hate to say it, but I think this decision was politically driven by the president after Michigan, Rogers said, referring to the uncommitted protest vote in that state's primary against Biden over his handling of the Israel-Hamas war. And hes trying to be forward-leaning to try to do something to help the folks in Gaza from a humanitarian standpoint, but this is moving really fast and nobody can explain how its gonna work.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office has agreed to reschedule a high-level delegation meant to travel from Israel to Washington to discuss the allys plans for an operation in Rafah, the White House confirmed Wednesday.

Days earlier, Netanyahu had canceled the delegation set to visit with top Biden administration officials this week as retribution for the U.S. abstaining from a vote of the U.N. Security Council proposal calling for a cease-fire in Gaza.

The prime ministers office has agreed to reschedule the meeting dedicated to Rafah, and so we are now working with them to find a convenient date that works for both sides, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters, calling the rescheduling a good thing.

No date has been finalized, but the meeting could occur as early as next week, an official told The Hill.

The relationship between the United States and Israel has grown tense ahead of a planned Israeli offensive into Gazas southernmost city Rafah, a military operation that American officials have warned against because of the dense Palestinian civilian population at risk.

The canceled talks were meant to hash out Israels plans for Rafah, where more than 1 million Palestinians are sheltering. White House officials have said that a ground invasion of the city without an accepted plan would create a humanitarian disaster.

Top administration officials were still able to meet with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over the past two days, with national security adviser Jake Sullivan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, CIA Director William Burns and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin having constructive discussions that included Rafah, a U.S. official told The Hill.

Jean-Pierre told reporters that the officials discussed how best to ensure Hamass lasting defeat in Gaza and the need to protect civilians, but that it is important for officials to have heard from Netanyahus office on Rafah.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Ukraine has the necessary means to destroy Russian hypersonic anti-ship missiles of the ZM22 Zircon type. Thus, the Defense Forces are able to shoot them down when these missiles enter the impact trajectory.

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This was announced by the spokesman for the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Ilya Yevlash during a telethon. He noted that the speed of such weapons exceeds 5 machs, where 1 mach is approximately equal to 1.2 thousand kilometers per hour.

"This is a very, very fast weapon. If we're talking about Zircon, it's about 8-9 machs. This is incredibly fast. However, when these missiles enter the impact trajectory, their speed decreases. It becomes subsonic. About 4.5 mach," said the Air Force spokesman.

He also noted that when the speed of the Zircon is about Mach 4.5, Ukraine uses anti-ballistic missile systems to shoot them down, such as SAMP/T or Patriot.

Earlier, Air Force spokesman Ilya Yevlash said that Russian troops are using Zircon hypersonic missiles in the war against Ukraine, probably due to a shortage of other weapons. This is because these weapons are anti-ship and are used only in certain cases.

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As reported by OBOZ.UA, on March 26, the head of the press center of the Southern Defense Forces, Natalia Gumenyuk, said that Russian troops had accumulated a stockpile of Zircon missiles in the occupied Crimea. The aggressor "may continue from time to time to carry out targeted terror with an emphasis, including on the capital," she said.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has told a group of US members of Congress that victory in Gaza and getting Hamas senior leadership in the enclave are just a few weeks away.

Speaking to a bipartisan group from Congress on Wednesday, Netanyahu said: Weve killed many senior leaders [of Hamas], including number four in Hamas, number three in Hamas. Well get number two and number one. Thats victory. Victory is within reach. Its a few weeks away.

Hosting the congressional delegation, which the Prime Ministers Office said was organized by the pro-Israel lobbying group American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said it was very important to maintain bipartisan support but especially in these trying times.

Netanyahu said that Israel had no choice but to move into Rafah as the countrys very existence is on the line.

Rescuers inspect the rubble of a building that collapsed following an Israeli air strike in the Rafah refugee camp in the southern Gaza Strip on March 20, 2024. - Said Khatib/AFP/Getty Images

The prime minister said that since the October 7 Hamas attack, Israel had enjoyed a remarkable alignment with the Biden administration but had fundamentally different views on an Israeli move into Rafah.

Israel has faced criticism internationally ahead of its planned offensive on the southern Gaza city, in which more than one million people are currently sheltering.

Netanyahu had earlier told the delegation that displaced Palestinians in Gaza could just move out of Rafah and move with their tents.

Theres all of the Gaza Strip north of Rafah, Netanyahu said. People move down, they can move up, the prime minister added.

Disagreements over the impending invasion of Rafah and the worsening humanitarian disaster in Gaza have driven relations between Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden to a low.

Earlier this week, Netanyahu cancelled a planned government delegation to Washington in protest of a US abstention from a UN Security Council vote, which had allowed a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to pass.

The resolution, proposed by the 10 non-permanent members of the Security Council, demanded an immediate ceasefire for the month of Ramadan, the immediate and unconditional release of hostages and the urgent need to expand the flow of aid into Gaza.

In meetings on Monday and Tuesday, senior US officials and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant had not reached any agreements on how Israel would move forward with an operation in Rafah, but both sides had agreed to continue the discussions at a working level in the coming days and weeks, US and Israeli officials told CNN.

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken all told Gallant that Israel needs to find an alternative option to a major assault on Rafah, which would endanger civilians and exacerbate the suffering there.

The White House said Wednesday that Netanyahu had agreed to reschedule the planned visit by the Israeli delegation to Washington to discuss the possible Rafah operation.

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(This March 27 story has been refiled to change reference from 'exchange of prisoners' to 'exchange of hostages for prisoners,' in paragraph 21)

By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Ahmed Zakot

(Reuters) - Israel bombed at least four homes in Rafah on Wednesday, raising new fear among the more than a million Palestinians sheltering in the last refuge on the southern edge of the Gaza Strip that a long-threatened ground assault could be coming.

One of the airstrikes killed 11 people from a single family, health officials said.

Mussa Dhaheer, looking on from below as neighbours helped an emergency worker lower a victim in a black body bag from an upper storey, said he had awakened to the blast, kissed his terrified daughter, and rushed outside to find the destruction. His father, 75, and mother, 62, were among the dead.

"I don't know what to do. I don't know what to say. I can't make sense of what happened. My parents. My father with his displaced friends who came from Gaza City," he told Reuters.

"They were all together, when suddenly they were all gone like dust."

At another bomb site, Jamil Abu Houri said the intensification of air strikes was Israel's way of showing its disdain for a U.N. Security Council resolution last week demanding an immediate Israel-Hamas ceasefire.

Next up, he fears a ground assault on Rafah, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened to carry out despite warnings from closest ally Washington that this would wreak a humanitarian disaster.

"The bombing has increased, and they have threatened us with an incursion, and they say that have been given the green light for the Rafah incursion. Where is the Security Council?" Abu Houri said.

A U.S. official said on Wednesday Israel had asked to reschedule a meeting in Washington to discuss its plans for Rafah, days after Netanyahu abruptly cancelled the talks over the passage of a Gaza ceasefire resolution by the U.N. Security Council that the U.S. decided not to veto.

The U.S. abstention from the vote pointed to frustration with Netanyahu, who rebuked Washington over the move.

MORE DEADLY AIRSTRIKES

Another Israeli airstrike in Rafah on Wednesday afternoon killed four Palestinians including a woman and a child and injured other residents, Gaza health authorities said.

Just west of Gaza City in the enclave's north, seven people were killed in an airstrike on a house, health officials said.

The Israeli military says it is targeting armed Hamas militants who use civilian buildings, including apartment blocks and hospitals, for cover. Hamas denies doing so.

Separately, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where bloodshed has worsened in parallel with the Gaza war, three Palestinians were killed and four wounded by Israeli fire during a raid in Jenin overnight, the Palestinian health ministry said.

At least 32,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's air and ground offensive into Hamas-run Gaza, according to the health ministry there, with thousands of other dead believed buried under rubble and over 80% of the 2.3 million population displaced, many at risk of famine.

The war erupted after Islamist Hamas militants broke through the border on Oct. 7 and rampaged through nearby communities, killing 1,200 people and abducting 253 hostages according to Israeli tallies.

Israeli forces just north of Rafah kept the two main hospitals in Khan Younis, Al-Amal and Nasser Hospital, under a blockade imposed late last week. In the north, they were still operating inside Al Shifa, the enclave's largest hospital, which they stormed more than a week ago.

Israel says the hospitals have been lairs for Hamas gunmen, which Hamas and medical staff deny. The Israeli military has said it killed and captured hundreds of fighters in a battle in Al Shifa. Hamas says civilians and medics were rounded up.

Gaza's health ministry said wounded people and patients were being held inside Al Shifa's human resources department that was not equipped to provide them with healthcare.

Residents living nearby have reported hearing constant explosions in and around Al Shifa and columns of smoke coming from buildings inside the premises.

International mediation has failed to secure a ceasefire and exchange of hostages for prisoners so far as the two sides stick to irreconcilable demands. Hamas wants an end to the war and total Israeli withdrawal from Gaza while Israel has vowed to keep fighting until its Islamist foe is eradicated.

(Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi in Cairo, Ahmed Zakot and Bassam Massoud in Rafah, Ali Sawafta in Ramallah; writing by Nidal al-Mughrabi; editing by Peter Graff and Mark Heinrich)
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday that the UN Security Council's demand for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza has strengthened the Palestinian militant Hamas movement and prompted it to reject a US compromise proposal on a new hostage deal.

Katz, speaking to Israeli Army Radio, said he was disappointed that the United States had not vetoed the resolution.

"We expect friends to strengthen us in these difficult times and not weaken us against Hamas and all the other enemies," Katz said. The US should veto "any decision that does not strongly condemn the terrible massacre and sexual crimes committed by Hamas against babies, women, girls and the elderly" on October 7, he added.

In a resolution binding under international law, the UN Security Council called for an "immediate ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip on Monday for the first time since the start of the war. In addition, the most powerful body of the United Nations is demanding the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas.

Prior to this, Israeli negotiators had accepted a compromise proposal from US mediators in the Qatari capital Doha and hoped Hamas would agree.

Following the UN Security Council's decision, however, Hamas announced that it was insisting on its demand for a comprehensive ceasefire, including a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip.

This proves that the resolution has played into the hands of Hamas, said Katz. He said the Islamist terrorist organization was counting on Israel being stopped by the international community without Hamas having to make any concessions. The decision led to a hardening of the Hamas position on releasing hostages, he added.

"The vote yesterday was a mistake, morally and practically," said Katz. Hamas had "received the message that it doesn't have to hurry, there is another way."

However, Israel will continue its military operation in the Gaza Strip unperturbed, including the offensive in the city of Rafah in the south of the coastal strip, Katz asserted.

The US government rejected the Israeli claim that the Security Council's demand for an immediate ceasefire damaged the negotiations over the release of hostages.

US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that the charge that Hamas rejected the latest proposal in the hostage negotiations because of the UN resolution was "inaccurate in almost every respect and... unfair to the hostages and their families."

"I can tell you that that response was prepared before the UN Security Council vote, not after it," Miller said in a press briefing in Washington on Tuesday, adding that the account of Hamas' response circulating in the public domain was incorrect.

Miller said that the US government would not "engage in rhetorical distractions on this issue," but would continue its efforts to secure the release of the hostages.

The humanitarian situation in northern Gaza is considered to be particularly dire more than five months into fighting between Israel and Hamas, triggered by the Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7 in which some 1,200 people were killed.

Aid convoys reach the area infrequently because Israel keeps northern border crossings with Gaza shut.

More than 30,000 Palestinians have been killed in the coastal area in Israeli bombings and military operations since October 7, the majority of them women and children.

German Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, and Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, greet each other in a hotel in Jerusalem before talks. Foreign Minister Baerbock is visiting Israel for the sixth time since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 to discuss the situation in Gaza and Israel once again. Christoph Soeder/dpa
Ali al-Zayadana, brother of Youssef and uncle of Hamza who are both still kidnapped by militants in Gaza, prays for them at the Al-Aqsa mosque in east Jerusalem (AHMAD GHARABLI)

After months of waiting in vain for Hamas to release his relatives held hostage in Gaza, Israeli Bedouin Ali al-Zayadna travelled to Islam's third holiest site to appeal directly to the Almighty.

"Oh God, end the captivity of Youssef and Hamza," the 59-year-old said as he knelt at the Al-Aqsa mosque in east Jerusalem, referring to his brother and nephew who were abducted during the October 7 attack that triggered the Israel-Hamas war.

Israel's impoverished and long-marginalised Bedouins -- Arab Muslim descendants of herders who once roamed freely through the Negev desert -- have been hit hard by the war.

They lost at least 17 members on October 7 and several others have been killed while serving in the Israeli military.

Seven others were taken hostage, though two - Zayadna's nephew Bilal and niece Aisha, both children of Youssef - were released as part of a week-long truce in November, the only one of the war so far.

Hamas's attack resulted in the deaths of about 1,160 people in total, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli figures.

Israel's retaliatory military campaign has killed at least 32,490 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has highlighted the Bedouins' sacrifices and, in meetings with prominent Bedouins, vowed to improve the government services they receive.

"All the people have stood in solidarity with each other, as if the kidnapped people belonged to everyone. All the people rallied around each other," Zayadna told AFP.

Yet there is scepticism over whether high-level attention paid to the Bedouins in wartime will actually improve their position in the long run.

"Now is the time of hugging, but the day after the war everything will go back to what it was before," said Kaid Abulatif, a film director from the mostly Bedouin city of Rahat.

"The Bedouin is a scapegoat."

- 'Off the grid' -

Prior to Israel's creation, the Negev desert in southern Israel was home to an estimated 92,000 Bedouins, but only 11,000 remained within state boundaries after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, according to Adalah, an organisation that promotes Arab minority rights in Israel.

Many of those resisted resettlement in towns, and Bedouins have occupied an uneasy place in Israeli society ever since.

Israeli military leader Moshe Dayan told the newspaper Haaretz in 1963 of his desire to "transform the Bedouin" into "an urban person who comes home in the afternoon and puts his slippers on" and whose "children would go to school with their hair properly combed".

"This would be a revolution, but it may be fixed within two generations... this phenomenon of the Bedouins will disappear," he added.

Today there are about 300,000 Bedouins in Israel, according to Adalah, roughly half in towns and cities and the other half in so-called unrecognised villages.

These villages lack even basic services like trash collection and are not protected by the Iron Dome air defence system, leaving Bedouins vulnerable to rocket and mortar fire from Hamas-run Gaza.

"They don't get any investment, they are off the grid," said Chris Doyle, director of the Council for Arab-British Understanding who has researched Israel's Bedouins since the 1990s.

Bedouins' resistance to assimilation is consistent with "their way of life", Doyle said, but it has nevertheless fuelled negative coverage in the Israeli press.

"Before the war, in the media there was a delegitimisation of anything related to the Bedouins," Abulatif said.

"All the time stories about vandalism, on how lawless they are, on how the Negev is a wild west. For some people the Bedouins are a devil."

- 'Change the reality' -

Abulatif knows firsthand the losses his community has suffered over nearly six months of war.

His youngest brother, 26-year-old Ahmad Abulatif, a reservist in the Israeli military, died in January in Gaza in an ambush that also killed 20 other soldiers.

Later that month, Netanyahu visited the Abulatif family in Rahat, giving the filmmaker an opportunity to request more state resources including funds for civic and youth groups.

In February, high-ranking current and former officials attended an event honouring Bedouins who rescued civilians during the October 7 attack.

"For years, governments did everything in their power to make Bedouins feel at home as Israelis," former president Reuven Rivlin told the gathering.

"They want to be part of the Israeli entity. The tribe is important to them, but they are also Israelis."

But Abulatif said Bedouins are not waiting around for the state to improve their lives.

During the first months of the war, Abulatif was a pillar of the Rahat community centre's coordination of mutual aid for Bedouin and Jewish families who had members killed or taken captive by Hamas.

And in February, at a film festival in Rahat, Abulatif premiered a documentary short that uses archival footage to honour the history of the city -- the largest Bedouin city in the country -- and the life of his late brother.

Such efforts underscore doubt that the government, for all its kind words lately, will step in and become a dependable ally for Bedouins.

As Abulatif put it: "If you want to change the reality, you have to change it yourself."

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Israeli scientist Ellen Graber has spent years researching ways to save chocolate crops from climate change. But with the government slashing spending to fund the war in Gaza, her project is one of hundreds now hanging in the balance.

Graber's research had already been hit by the war -- she had to abandon her cacao plants when the area where they were grown was evacuated after the October 7 Hamas attack.

They survived weeks of drought-like conditions in a greenhouse.

But the state-funded Volcani Institute where she works is now facing huge budget cuts.

The institute specialises in arid and desert environments, increasingly vital areas of study for a planet wracked by extreme weather caused by climate change.

Now the government's war budget means hundreds of the institute's projects are under threat.

- 'Functionally stagnant' -

Israeli politicians approved sweeping cuts to ministry budgets earlier this month to pay for an 82 percent rise in defence spending and some key demands of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition allies.

They included controversial measures to boost financing of ultra-Orthodox education programmes and Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.

The ministry of agriculture was one of the hardest hit, facing a 12 percent cut.

The Volcani Institute is set to lose a fifth of its state money, which it says will effectively bring its research to a halt.

The warning comes days after Israel's state auditor criticised the government's "functionally stagnant" handling of the climate crisis.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid called the budget "the most sectarian, disconnected and reckless" in the country's history.

And economist Itai Ater, a senior fellow at the Israel Democracy Institute think tank, said the budget "will certainly harm... education, health, welfare and infrastructure".

- 'Whole thing will dry up' -

Volcani's acting director Shmuel Assouline warned lawmakers its revised budget would only cover basic running costs.

He said halting its research could mean a loss of around 100 million shekels ($27 million) in its partnerships with other institutions and corporate partners.

"If we lose our good name, private companies won't come to invest," he added.

Graber, a soil scientist, started growing tropical cacao plants four years ago to devise ways "to increase yields, to increase quality, to deal with pests and pathogens and diseases" plaguing the cacao industry globally.

"I can't buy important chemicals, the equipment that I need, the materials I need to work and to continue this study," Graber said.

"Within one year, this whole thing will dry up."

Volcani's sprawling campus in central Israel has the atmosphere of a kibbutz crossed with a top-secret research facility.

Cows low in barns metres from laboratories where researchers are trying to isolate fungus-killing bacterial strains they hope will replace chemical pesticides.

Its researchers are at the forefront of climate change solutions for agriculture.

They collaborate with universities, governments and private companies around the globe on subjects as diverse as meteorology and water-use to gene-editing and environmental microbiology.

Eddie Cytryn, director of Volcani's Institute of Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences, said the cuts would have "tremendous impacts" on field research and international collaboration -- and the grants that fund them.

- Cell growth research stunted -

Scientists Hinanit Koltai and Guy Mechrez head a team studying a novel method to accelerate and control cell growth in cows.

Their research, carried out in partnership with an Israeli firm called Nanomeat, aims to overcome a major hurdle for the lab-grown meat industry.

But Koltai echoed Graber and Assouline in saying her team was no longer able to buy materials for their research and warning they could lose their corporate partners.

"Nanomeat will go to somebody else no doubt," she said.

Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter told Kan public radio that he had "a serious disagreement with the finance ministry" over funds for the Volcani Institute.

He said Netanyahu "promised to intervene" but for the time being the scientists are left in limbo.

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Experts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) have analysed the claims made by the leaders of Belarus and Russia regarding the terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue in Moscow Oblast.

Source: ISW

Details: Alexander Lukashenko, the self-proclaimed president of Belarus, claimed that the perpetrators of the attack on Crocus City Hall initially attempted to flee to Belarus, not Ukraine, directly contradicting the Kremlin's narrative of Ukraine's involvement, possibly to avoid questions about why the attackers were heading to Belarus in the first place.

The ISW noted that Lukashenko has "very little evident incentive to lie about the facts of the attack in this way".

At the same time, the experts indicated: "The suggestion that the attackers were travelling towards Belarus, presumably to seek refuge there, could have damaging political consequences for Lukashenko and his regime as it would raise questions about why they thought they would be safer in Belarus and who they thought might receive them there".

Therefore, Lukashenko has likely sought to prevent controversy over the attackers' hypothetical ties to Belarus by claiming that Belarusian forces played a crucial role in their arrest. Although Lukashenko's remarks undermine the Kremlin's established narrative, they reduce his vulnerability to Kremlin attempts to leverage non-public information about the attackers' initial escape plans to exert pressure on the Belarusian leader in the future.

Russian ruler Vladimir Putin and other Russian officials appear to be struggling to maintain a consistent rhetorical line regarding the Crocus City Hall attack. This indicates that the Russian authorities have not yet fully resolved how to align their information operations with the reality of their intelligence and law enforcement failures.

To quote ISWs Key Takeaways on 26 March:

[The self-proclaimed] Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said that the Crocus City Hall attackers originally fled toward Belarus not Ukraine, directly undermining the Kremlin narrative on Ukraines involvement, possibly to head off questions about why the attackers headed toward Belarus in the first place.

Russian President [leader  ed.] Vladimir Putin and other senior Kremlin officials appear to be struggling to maintain a consistent rhetorical line about the Crocus City Hall attack, indicating that the Kremlin has not fully figured out how to reconcile its information operations with the reality of its intelligence and law enforcement failure.

Russian officials are proposing actionable but likely impractical solutions to the emotional outcries for retribution in response to the Crocus City Hall attack.

The Moldovan Constitutional Court reversed a ruling banning the Kremlin-affiliated Shor Party on 26 March, which will likely allow pro-Russian Moldovan actors to reconsolidate around the Shor Party and reverse the impacts of the previous Moldovan ban on the party.

Ukrainian officials stated on 26 March that Ukrainian forces successfully conducted a strike on the night of 23 to 24 March against a Ukrainian ship that Russian forces had captured in 2014.

Separate investigations conducted by Western media outlets have found that Russian forces may be using Starlink terminals in Ukraine.

Russian forces recently made confirmed advances near Kreminna and Bakhmut on 26 March.

The Russian military has reportedly started recruiting personnel for elements of the newly reformed Leningrad Military District (LMD).

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A Michigan Democratic candidate is warning that the GOP will roll back the use of in-vitro fertilization. An Iowa Democrat is using her own IVF story as a contrast with her opponents past support for limits on it. And a Florida Republican is pushing symbolic pro-IVF legislation.

The Alabama Supreme Court ruling that frozen embryos can be considered children under state law catapulted IVF into the political spotlight, ripping open another potential weakness for Republicans on reproductive rights. IVF is already showing up in campaign ads and messaging in multiple states, including those potentially competitive congressional seats in Michigan, Iowa and Florida. The issue has even reached further down-ballot, including an Alabama state House special election on Tuesday that a Democrat won after casting IVF as a preeminent issue alongside abortion.

But for now, IVF has yet to dominate the political airwaves the way that abortion rights did after the reversal of Roe v. Wade.

Whether that remains true as the parties edge closer to November depends on how well Republicans can navigate tricky conversations about IVF  and if Democrats can successfully tie the fertility technology to broader reproductive rights. (Its also early in the cycle, with the real cross-party fighting coming after the primaries.) As both parties search for every advantage in the fight for control of Congress, the legal battles over personhood that Roes fall kickstarted on the state level are giving Democrats an opportunity to connect the Alabama ruling to the broader loss of a national right to abortion.

And it doesnt help that Republicans are still scrambling to apply the lessons they learned on abortion, with many admitting they lack a clear position on IVF beyond general support for it. Democrats are starting to remind voters more strongly that their opponents dont yet have straightforward answers for more complicated questions, such as how to treat frozen embryos.



You just cannot have that both ways, said Democrat Christina Bohannan, who is looking for a rematch with Republican Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks in Iowas 1st Congressional District. You can't claim to support life at conception and personhood bills, and then also claim to support something like IVF, and that really is the problem.

And Democrats are determined to closely tie the recent Alabama ruling to general reproductive rights  familiar ground for the party that championed abortion rights over the last two years, leading to wins in purple and red areas.

They're trying to make a mountain out of a molehill, said Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.), who is running for governor this year. Braun said he hasnt talked to any Republicans who would be in favor of ending IVF, and he thinks Democratic attempts to pin Republicans as anti-IVF will fall flat.

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), who is up for reelection in the fall, told POLITICO its important to address IVF and abortion as different issues.

I just think as somebody who's 100 percent pro-life, I'm 100 percent for IVF. I know people  personally, a lot of people  who have benefited from IVF, Hawley said. Its a miracle for many, many families.

Reproductive rights messaging proved beneficial on Tuesday, when Democrat Marilyn Lands prevailed in a competitive special election for a Alabama state House swing seat  right where this all started. (The legislature has since passed a law restoring access to IVF.) Lands defeated Republican Teddy Powell after putting reproductive rights in the forefront of her campaign.

In a campaign ad, she highlighted an Alabama womans inability to get an abortion due to the states ban, and shared her own experience with abortion. One of the headlines flashing on screen refers to the state courts IVF ruling.

I feel like Alabama is Ground Zero for attacks on women's freedoms and reproductive health care issues, Lands said in an interview prior to the election.

Its a comeback for Lands, who ran for the seat in 2022 but lost by 7 points. In 2020, former President Donald Trump narrowly won this district, and former Democratic Sen. Doug Jones won it by around 5 points.

A low-turnout special election in a state that wont get much attention come November, months before the fight for Congress really heats up, is not the strongest indicator of how IVF will play out in more high-profile races this cycle. But Lands win may help set the tone for Democrats moving forward. President Joe Bidens campaign seized on the victory, saying the results should serve as a major warning sign for Trump.

An ad in Michigan uses IVF as an issue more directly. Jessica Swartz, a Democrat running in a Trump-won district, talks in the ad about using IVF to get pregnant and points to Republican Rep. Bill Huizengas support for a bill that states life begins at conception.

That so-called personhood legislation, the Life at Conception Act, does not have a carve-out for IVF. If enacted, advocacy and medical groups say the bill could upend how the procedure is practiced. It has more than 100 House GOP cosponsors but has not come up for a vote.

Bohannan has been running advertisements on social media sharing her experience with IVF and pointing to Miller-Meeks backing of legislation that restricts access to the procedure. Trump also narrowly won that district in 2020.

It made me very angry to think that people who are already struggling with infertility and with the emotional stress of [IVF] would then have politicians tell them, This is not even an option for you, Bohannan said.

Theres some evidence that congressional Republicans are worried. Rep. Michelle Steel (R-Calif.), whose seat is a top target for House Democrats, pulled her backing of the Life at Conception Act after the Alabama ruling, saying that she does not support federal restrictions on IVF.

The House GOP is further impacted by the fact it hasnt voted on any new pro-IVF legislation recently  which isnt likely to change anytime soon. Senate Democrats tried to unanimously pass a bill to protect IVF at the federal level, but Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) blocked it.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) told POLITICO in early March shes still pursuing a roll-call vote on her bill, though Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) indicated she doesnt expect a floor vote until Senate Republicans commit to not filibustering it.



Some Republicans are trying to introduce their own legislation, though GOP leadership hasnt indicated whether any will get a vote. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) earlier this month released a bill that would make states ineligible for maternal and child health services funding if they ban IVF.

But Democratic challenger Whitney Fox, who has been hitting Luna on IVF for weeks, said the bill does nothing to protect what happened in Alabama from happening right here in Florida and accused Luna of introducing the bill to get attention so she can claim that shes protecting it.

I think voters see it as: They went after Roe. They went after abortion rights. And now, they're going after IVF. What's next, birth control? I mean, how far does this go? And I think it's terrifying people that it's come to this, that their rights are being taken away, Fox said.

Absent legislative solutions, both sides are left to tool with messaging. First-term Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) has urged her party to clearly state its support for IVF, calling National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair Steve Daines (R-Mont.) after her states ruling and telling him the GOP should immediately get ahead of backlash, according to a person familiar with the conversation.

The NRSC subsequently released a memo advising candidates to voice support for IVF.

I support IVF. I have many friends who that's the reason they're here, GOP Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake said during a visit to the Capitol this month. Lake also noted shes much more about keeping a lot of this to the states.

The messaging isnt always clean-cut, however. In Maryland, Republican Senate hopeful Larry Hogan, the former governor of the state, earlier this month would not commit to voting for federal protections for IVF while voicing his support of the procedure. A day later, he slammed gotcha questions, litmus tests, and hypotheticals and said that he would sponsor legislation protecting the procedure.

Prince Georges County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, a Democrat running for that seat, has hit Hogan on his reproductive rights record, including his 2022 veto of a bill in the state that would have expanded abortion access.

This is reproductive freedom, Alsobrooks said. How paternalistic and crazy has this discussion become that anybody ought to be able to decide for a woman which things she can do for her body?
Missing 15-year-old boy from South Side has been found

CHICAGO - Update (6:50 p.m., March 30):

A 15-year-old boy who was reported missing in the South Shore neighborhood earlier this week has been found.

Jabraan Combs has been located, according to Chicago police.

Further details on his disappearance are limited at this time.

Original:

Chicago police are asking for the public's help locating a missing 15-year-old boy.

Jabraan Combs was last seen on Sunday at 2 p.m. in the 7200 block of South Jeffrey Boulevard, which is located in the South Shore neighborhood.

Combs is described as a Black boy, with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5-foot-3 and weighing 120 pounds.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Chicago Police Department's Special Victims Unit at 312-747-8380.

Jabraan Combs | CPD
As part of the new economic policy program "Made in Ukraine", the government has signed contracts for our defense industry. These are agreements for the manufacture of automated fire systems, new FPV drones with appropriate drops, and simulators for mobile fire groups.

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This was announced by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his visit to Sumy region. It was here that a regional meeting was held for the first time to launch the Made in Ukraine program. According to the President, the program provides "a significant amount of funds for this year  for all regions of the country."

"We have signed contracts for our defense industry. In particular, today there are new contracts for automated fire systems, new FPV drones with appropriate drops, and simulators for mobile fire groups that will help to shoot down "chessmen" more effectively. All that is needed," the president said.

Zelenskyy added that he had already provided specific tasks for government officials, the State Property Fund, the President's Office, and regional authorities following meetings and conferences in the Sumy region.

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Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
FRAMINGHAM  Facing a primary opponent for the first time in eight years, state Rep. Jack Patrick Lewis, D-Framingham, has formally launched his campaign for a fifth two-year term in the State House.

Lewis held a campaign kickoff event Tuesday at the Ashland VFW on Pleasant Street. He'll be challenged by at least one opponent, Ashland resident Carlton Phelps, in the Sept. 3 Democratic primary.

"Over the last eight years I have taken the successful lead in increasing disability and public health programs, and taken the lead in passing legislation ranging from expanding adoption options, increasing youth health and wellness, to gun safety and, most recently, veterans benefits," Lewis told the Daily News. "We've accomplished a lot over the last eight years, and I'm hopeful that residents of both Ashland and Framingham will continue to allow me to fight for them and their communities."

State Rep. Jack Patrick Lewis, D-Framingham, has formally kicked off his campaign for a fifth two-year term in the State House.

'State needs greater diversity': Carlton Phelps announces primary challenge to Rep. Jack Lewis

Lewis described the upcoming presidential election in November as "very concerning," saying that if he were to be reelected, he would work to make Massachusetts an example for the rest of the country to follow.

"If I'm fortunate enough to be reelected, I'll continue to advocate for the same issues I ran on, the same issues I hear from folks every day," Lewis said. "These include making sure our kids have the education that they deserve, making sure families have the resources to thrive, and making sure the state is a beacon to the rest of the country when it comes to protecting human rights, reproductive health care, and other states continue to look at Massachusetts as an example."

Lewis has not had a challenger since his first State House run in 2016

Lewis first won election to the State House in 2016, after incumbent state Rep. Tom Sannicandro, D-Ashland did not seek reelection. Lewis narrowly defeated Brett Walker and Philip Jack in the Democratic primary, then beat Republican Yolanda Greaves in the general election, receiving 62% of the vote.

Lewis was reelected in 2018, 2020 and 2022, running unopposed each time.

He chairs the House Committee on Federal Stimulus and Census Oversight, and also sits on the Joint Committee of Healthcare Financing. Lewis has seen his family grow since he was first elected in 2016, and that influence has further committed him to causes such as securing additional Chapter 70 education funding for public school students.

Op-ed: Lewis writes that providing LGBTQ+ community with allyship is as vital as ever

"When I first ran I had one kid, and shortly after being reelected, our family welcomed a couple more, and being a parent certainly has influenced my role," he said. "For me, remembering that our kids only have one childhood, they only go through elementary school once, they only get one chance to thrive and learn those basic skills that are necessary, and making sure all of those kids have those opportunities and resources is one of the big reasons why I first ran. That will continue as we continue to explore to make sure those opportunities are available for everyone."

The 7th Middlesex District includes all of Ashland and Precincts 9, 11A, 17-20 and 23-27 in Framingham. The district was redrawn at the start of 2023, moving out of most of the southside of Framingham and more into the city's eastern end. The south side has its own district, the 6th Middlesex, represented by state Rep. Priscila Sousa, D-Framingham.

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Lewis seeking fifth term as state rep for Ashland, Framingham
Known for its strong sense of self identity expressed through its music, food and rich cultural mix, Jamaica's influence extends far beyond its shores.

With luminaries such as the black nationalist Marcus Garvey and musician Bob Marley, Jamaicans are proud of their cultural and religious heritage.

Jamaicans have migrated in significant numbers to the United States, Canada and Britain and their music stars are known around the globe.

The island is the birthplace of Rastafarianism, a religious movement which has been adopted by groups around the world who venerate the former Ethiopian emperor Haile Selassie. Once regarded as a revolutionary threat, Rastafarianism became a cultural force, reflected in art and music.

Since independence from Britain in 1962, power in Jamaica has alternated between the social-democratic People's National Party and the conservative Jamaica Labour Party.

Political stability, however, has not turned into social and economic harmony.

Read more country profiles - Profiles by BBC Monitoring

JAMAICA: FACTS

Capital: Kingston

Area: 10,991 sq km

Population: 2.7 million

Languages: English, Jamaican Patois

Life expectancy: 70 years (men) 74 years (women)

LEADERS

Head of state: King Charles III

Prime minister: Andrew Holness

Jamaican premier Andrew Holness

Andrew Holness won a second win for the Jamaica Labour Party in the September 2022 general election. The JLP increased its majority, winning 49 seats to 14 won by the PNP - in the 2016 election it had a majority of just one seat.

Among the challenges the government faces is a high rate of youth unemployment and dealing with the country's heavy debt.

Jamaica is also at a crossroads in its relationship with the British crown.

"We're moving on," Prime Minister Andrew Holness told the then-Duke and Duchess of Cambridge when they were on the island for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in 2022. Polls suggest more than 50% of Jamaicans now support the idea of a republic.

MEDIA

Mural in Jamaica

Jamaica has a free press. Broadcast media are mainly commercial and carry diverse comment.

The country ranks highly in the World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders.

TIMELINE

Jamaica became a leading sugar exporter with the help of slave labour, abolished in the 1830s

Some key dates in Jamaica's history:

c. 4000-1000BC - Jamaica is first settled.

c. 800AD - Taino people settle on island, most likely from South America.

1494 - Christopher Columbus sights Jamaica.

1509 - Jamaica occupied by the Spaniards under a licence from Columbus's son; much of the indigenous community dies off from exposure to European diseases; African slaves brought in to work on the sugar plantations.

1654-70 - Anglo-Spanish War. Oliver Cromwell launches the "Western Design", aiming to end Spanish dominance in the Americas.

1655 - Following a failed attempt to conquer Santo Domingo on Hispaniola, English forces invade and capture Jamaica.

c. 1655-70 - Spanish make several attempts to re-capture the island, prompting the English to support pirates attacking Spanish ships. Port Royal becomes a haven for pirates and privateers, most notably Henry Morgan, who leads highly lucrative raids on Puerto del Principe in Cuba, Porto Bello in Panama, and Maracaibo and Gibraltar in Venezuela.

1670 - Treaty of Madrid: Spain formally cedes Jamaica to England.

1671 - Henry Morgan leads a devastating raid across the Isthmus of Panama, sacking Panama City, before news of the peace treaty reaches the Caribbean. To restore relations with Spain he is recalled and arrested but is released unpunished, knighted by Charles I and made lieutenant governor of Jamaica.

1692 - Port Royal is devastated by an earthquake and an accompanying tsunami.

1700s - Economy booms, based largely on sugar and other crops for export such as coffee, cotton and indigo - crops worked by black slaves often in brutal conditions.

1728-1739/40 - First Maroon War: During the 18th Century many slaves run away to join communities of free black people in the island's mountainous interior - the Maroons - in increasing numbers. Skirmishing between colonial authorities who are unable to control the interior of Jamaica and free black communities escalates. The war is a stalemate.

1760 - Tacky's War: A large slave rebellion is defeated by the British and their Maroon allies.

1795-96 - Second Maroon War: Breaks out over disagreements over the treaty ending the previous war; after the war many Maroons are expelled to Nova Scotia and later Sierra Leone.

1831-32 - Baptist War, Sam Sharp rebellion or Great Jamaican Slave Revolt. Some 500 people are killed in a rebellion involving up to 60,000 of the 300,000 slaves in Jamaica. The revolt, though militarily unsuccessful, plays a major part in the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire.

1838 - Slavery abolished in the British Empire.

1865 - Morant Bay Rebellion: Staged by freed slaves in response to acute hardship. British authorities ruthlessly suppress the protest, close down the local legislature and rule the island directly from Britain.

1870 - Banana plantations set up as the sugar cane industry declines in the face of competition from European beet sugar.

1884 - New constitution marks the initial revival of local autonomy.

1917 - Jamaican political activist and pan-Africanist Marcus Garvey founds the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities to fight for greater political rights and an improvement in workers' conditions.

1938 - Serious riots caused by unemployment and resentment against British racial policies; People's National Party (PNP) founded by Norman Manley.

1944 - Universal adult suffrage introduced; new constitution providing for a popularly-elected House of Representatives promulgated.

1958 - Jamaica becomes a member of the British-sponsored Federation of the West Indies.

1961 - Jamaica withdraws from the Federation of the West Indies.

1962 - Jamaica becomes independent.

1972 - Michael Manley, leader of the PNP, becomes prime minister and pursues a policy of economic self-reliance.

1976 - The PNP wins another term following elections marked by violence and proceeds to nationalise businesses and build closer ties with Cuba.

1980 - Edward Seaga becomes prime minister. He proceeds to privatise state enterprises and to distance Jamaica from Cuba.

1999 - Violent protests take place against a 30% increase in fuel prices. Government orders the army to patrol the streets of Kingston following a massive increase in crime.

2001 - Troops and armoured vehicles move in to restore order in the capital, Kingston, after three days of unrest leave at least 27 people dead.

2003 - UK introduces visa requirement for Jamaicans entering UK; London says move is intended to tackle illegal immigration.

2008 - Parliament votes to keep the death penalty, as Jamaica struggles to contain one of the world's highest murder rates.

2010 - Dozens are killed in operation to arrest drug lord Christopher "Dudus" Coke, who is extradited to the US, sentenced and jailed.

2012 - Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller says that 50 years on from gaining its independence, it is time for Jamaica to become a republic.

2020 - Andrew Holness wins a second consecutive win for the Jamaica Labour Party. The JLP, which had promised a referendum on becoming a republic but not carried one out, states that holding a referendum remains a goal.

2022 - Legal and constitutional a minister Marlene Malahoo Forte says Jamaica's move to become republic is to be completed by the next general election, currently scheduled for 2025. Popular support for republicanism grows following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Jamaica is the birthplace of reggae music and Bob Marley was one of its greatest exponents
Jane Fonda, at 86, is small-boned and elegant, her eyes like soft blue-gray flannel. Yet its startling how much energy shoots through her via a simple handshake: if a woodland creature could shake your hand, it might feel like this, the will of an entire forest ecosystem pouring through one being. Shes physically strong, sitting up straight and tall for more than an hour on a backless ottoman, perched before a cozy sitting-room fireplace in her Los Angeles town house. But the message telegraphed by her handshake is less a matter of muscle tone than of pure urgency. If you could put it into words, it would be this: Theres not much time left.

Fonda has already lived many lives. The daughter of a much loved actor and a socialite, Henry Fonda and Frances Ford Seymour, she has built an astonishing acting career herself: In the space of just a few years, she shifted from the campy delights of Barbarella to career-defining performances in Klute and They Shoot Horses, Dont They? Younger audiences know her from the Book Club movies and the hit TV series Grace and Frankie. And although its now common for actors to support causes they care about, vocally and financially, Fonda is the OG actor-activist. In the early 1970s she supported Native American causes and spoke out on behalf of the Black Panthers. Shes fought for civil rights and issues directly affecting womens welfare, though she may be best known for her antiVietnam War stance in the 1970sin particular, a photograph of her perched on an anti-aircraft gun taken during a 1972 trip to Hanoi. Fonda has apologized repeatedly and profusely over the years for that photo, knowing how hurtful it was to GIs and veterans. She knows what its like to be embattled, and to go to battle for principles she believes in. But in 2019 Fonda had a breakthrough that, as she describes it, was bigger than any revelation shes had in decades of both acting and activism.

Photograph by Erik Carter for TIME

Shed felt a growing sense of alarm a year earlier, during the 2018 California wildfires. The skies here were orange-brown, she recalls. I read that birds were dropping dead out of the sky over New Mexico and Arizona. They couldnt make their normal migratory journey over the coast because of the wildfires. So they were flying over the deserts, and they were dying of dehydration and hunger. Fonda spent her early years in the hills of California in the 1940s when there were no freeways and no smog. She remembers the sounds of meadow-larks, nightingales, mourning doves. You dont hear them anymore. I went into a downward spiral. I realized, its happening now. This isnt something in the future. Ive marched, Ive protested. But given my platform, Im not doing what I can do. And this could be the end. I have to commit myself more.

Read More: It May Not Be Long Before Were All Suffering from Climate Trauma

Fondas resolve intensified when the galleys for Naomi Kleins 2019 Green New Deal manifesto On Fire landed on her doorstep, just as she was heading off to Big Sur for Labor Day weekend. She was so shaken by Kleins book that she immediately called Annie Leonard, then head of Greenpeace USA. This was not a cause, says Fonda. This was not a specific war in a specific place, or a specific group of people fighting for rights. This was human civilization were talking about. I just realized it in the core of my body. This is the moment I have to completely show up with everything I have. Were the first generation to experience the climate crisis, she says, and were the last that can do anything about it. I want to be part of the generation that does something about it, because this is it.

Feelings of despair are understandable in the face of imminent climate disaster. But they can also be a retreat, a means of leaving the hard work of changemaking to someone else. Its not in Fondas nature to feel that kind of helplessness: Ive never despaired before. Im not a despairing person. But not even she knew exactly what she ought to be doing, which is why she called Leonard, who promptly set up a call with Klein, climate activist Bill McKibben, and environmental lawyer Jay Halfon. I wanted to raise a ruckus, Fonda says. So together, the group came up with the idea of planning an act of civil disobedience every Friday, inspired by protests like Randall Robinsons 1980s antiapartheid sit-ins outside the South African embassy, as well as by the actions of Fridays for Future, the youth movement organized by Greta Thunberg in 2018. Young people, Fonda says, were asking for us. They were saying, We didnt create this crisis, but its our future thats going to be destroyed. Where are the older people to join us? So I said, Im here. I volunteer.

The first Fire Drill Friday was held on Oct. 11, 2019, with Fonda appearing on the steps of the Capitol in a black-and-white houndstooth newsboy cap and a three-alarm-red coat. Only about 50 people showed up to hear the speakers and experts whod been scheduled to appear, though that number would swell in the coming weeks. Fonda was arrested that dayphotos show her holding her zip-tied wrists high, a badge of honor. And although this wasnt her first arrest (shed been arrested once in 1970, at the behest of the Nixon White House on suspicion of drug possession, and several times by military police during antiVietnam War protests), it was the first time shed been detained for civil disobedience. She would be arrested a total of five timesspending one night in jailacross the 14 Fire Drill Friday protests held in D.C. through Jan. 10, 2020.

The pandemic forced Fire Drill Fridays to move its protests and educational sessions online, and though the last virtual event was held on Jan. 5, the movements momentum continues. One thing Fonda learned from the experience is that Americans do care about climate issues. Data collected by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication in autumn 2023 show that an estimated 72% of Americans believe climate change is happening, and some 70% believe it will harm plants and animals as well as future generations of humans. The whole point, Fonda says, is to let people know theyre needed. As attendance at Fire Drill Fridays grew, it was, Fonda says, mostly older women who showed up, women whod never been to a rally before. When people are asked why they havent taken any action in response to the climate crisis, the answer, Fonda says, is often simply that nobody asked them. So I say the great unasked is our target. Lets turn that concern into action.

Erik Carter for TIME

When you spend an hour or two with a person who cares passionately about a particular issue, their idealism tends to fill the air, sometimes to the point of crowding out the human being sitting in front of you. This is even somewhat true of Fonda, not because theres anything recessive about her, but because her mission seems to have set every molecule of her being ablaze. Shes the same Jane Fonda we think we all knowand yet more. She speaks of how the climate crisis affects women more negatively than men, particularly in the Global South. She makes a brief reference to her own recent cancer diagnosisshe was treated for non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2022 and is now in remissionas a springboard to talk about the prevalence of cancer in communities located near refineries, oil wells, and fracking facilities, not to mention the fossil-fuel pollution that surrounds us all. She speaks with urgency about the upcoming election, whose outcome could determine the fate of the planet. In 2022, she and a small board of advisers established the Jane Fonda Climate PAC to help elect climate champions, particularly down ballot, where, she says, the robust work on climate is happening. Mayors, city councils, boards of supervisors, county executives ... are the people that can create a whole climate plan, make it more resilient in your city or community.

Read More: Column: You Cant Have Healthy People On a Sick Planet

The political action committee is already in high gear for this years elections. Candidates are begging for its endorsement, and Fonda says they go through a rigorous vetting processand they absolutely cannot take money from the fossil-fuel industry. This is probably the most important election. The problem is we say this all the time, only this time its really true. Who gets elected in the United States in November is going to greatly determine whether theres a future.

But even Fonda, whose passion and commitment are so exemplary, is more than just the sum of the issues she cares about. In her book What Can I Do? My Path From Climate Despair to Action, she writes of being in that jail cell and wondering what the late Tom Hayden, a brilliant activist and one of her three ex-husbands, would think of her. He was a great strategist. How would he advise her and her compatriots to proceed? In the next paragraph, though, she wonders if she would have had the nerve to move to D.C. and launch a project as ambitious as Fire Drill Fridays if Hayden were still alive. When I ask her about this moment of self-questioning, she replies, more mischievously than evasively, Did I say that? Hmm. Then she elaborates.

I was in awe of Tom. His intellect, the depth of his understanding of what needed to happen and how to make it happen. I was always kind of in the student role with him. And I dont think he respected me very much, or at least he made me feel that I was stupid. And so I think he would have probably tried to talk me out of it. Or I would have been afraid that he wouldnt have approved. The point of this story isnt to paint self-doubt as weakness, but to show how getting beyond it is often what pushes any of us to leap further and higher than we ever thought we could go. I guess one of the reasons Im so involved is, Im 86 years old. I have a feeling that people can say, Look at what shes doing at her age! If she can do it, I can do it.

Read More: From Hanoi Jane to the Workout: A Brief History of Jane Fondas Activism

The first step out of despair is simply showing up. Weve already had brief moments last year where global average temperatures surpassed the 1.5C temperature increase that scientists say we must avoid, she says. But we can go back againwe can reduce it. Its going to require incredibly brave and bold actions. And we can be brave and bold.



Set design by Ali Gallagher and Zoran Radanovich; styled by Cristina Ehrlich; hair by Jonathan Hanousek; make-up by David DeLeon at ASM

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Births are at an all-time low in Japan, while its elderly population is growing [Getty Images]

A Japanese nappy maker has announced that it will stop producing diapers for babies in the country and, instead, focus on the market for adults.

Oji Holdings is the latest firm to make such a shift in a rapidly ageing Japan, where birth rates are at a record low.

Sales of adult nappies outpaced those for infants in the country for more than a decade.

The number of babies born in Japan in 2023 - 758,631 - was down by 5.1% from the previous year.

It was also the lowest number of births on record in Japan since the 19th Century. In the 1970s, that figure stood at more than two million.

In a statement, Oji Holdings said its subsidiary, Oji Nepia, currently manufactures 400 million infant nappies annually. Production has been falling since 2001, when the company hit its peak - 700 million nappies.

Back in 2011, Japan's biggest diaper maker, Unicharm, said its sales of adult diapers had surpassed those for babies.

Meanwhile, the adult diaper market has been growing and is estimated to be worth more than $2bn (1.6bn). Japan now has one of the world's oldest populations, with almost 30% of them aged 65 or older. Last year, the proportion of those aged above 80 surpassed 10% for the first time.

Oji Holdings also said it would continue to make baby diapers in Malaysia and Indonesia where it expects demand to grow.

A shrinking population, the result of both ageing and plummeting birth rates, has become a crisis for Japan, one of the world's largest economies. But the Japanese government's efforts to address these challenges have met with little success so far.

Increased spending on child-related programmes and subsidies targeting young couples or parents don't appear to be boosting birth rates. Expert say the reasons are complex, ranging from lower marriage rates and more women joining the workforce, to the increased costs of raising children.

"Japan is standing on the verge of whether we can continue to function as a society," Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said last year, adding that it was a case of "now or never".

But Japan is not alone. Fertility rates have also been dropping in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan and South Korea, the last of which has the lowest birth rate in the world.

China too saw its population fall for the second year in a row in 2023 and, like Japan, has introduced various incentives to boost birth rates. But an ageing population and the impact of a decades-long one child-policy, which ended in 2015, are creating demographic challenges in China too.
Japan announced plans on Wednesday to develop a next-generation passenger jet over the next decade after the last struggling attempt, led by a private company, was scrapped a year ago.

The new public-private project aims to use "new environmental technologies" such as hydrogen or hybrid electrics,a statement from the ministry of economy, trade and industry said.

"It is important for us to build next-generation aircraft based on technologies where Japan is competitive, while also contributing to the decarbonation of air transport," the statement said.

The new plane will be ready after 2035, an economy ministry officialsaid after a closed-door meeting of politicians, experts and businesspeople to discuss Japan's aviation industry strategy.

Over the next 10 years, investment totalling five trillion yen ($33 billion) is needed in the industry including for the development of the new passenger plane, the official said.

The fresh push to build the nation's first homemade airliner in more than half a century comes after Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) abandoned a much-anticipated attempt in February 2023.

The troubled project to develop a twin-engine plane for short-to-medium haul flights was ditched 10 years after the jet was due for commercial rollout, having suffered technical glitches and repeated delivery delays.

"For the Japanese aircraft industry to achieve sustainable growth, we cannot stay satisfied with our position as a parts supplier," Kazuchika Iwata, state minister for economy, trade and industry, told the committee in comments open to press at the start of Wednesday's meeting.

"In the new business fields of carbon-neutral technologies, including hydrogen, we aim to take a leading position" and partner with global players to develop a narrow-body plane, he said.

China showed off its first domestically produced passenger jet in Singapore last month, aiming to challenge the dominance of Airbus and Boeing with its single-aisle model.

Japan last launched a commercial airliner in 1962 -- the YS-11 turboprop that was discontinued about a decade later.

Hydrogen fuel does not emit carbon dioxide when burned, making it an exciting prospect for Japan which is targeting carbon neutrality by 2050.

But environmental campaigners are sceptical about its use without a reliable supply chain for so-called "green" hydrogen, produced from renewable energy sources.

"Nothing concrete has been decided yet, but possibilities include hybrid electrics, hydrogen combustion, hydrogen FC -- these are possible next-generation technologies we're looking at and aiming to deepen our research of" in developing the new aircraft, the economy ministry official told AFP.

Edward Bourlet, an analyst at CLSA in Japan covering MHI, told AFP that Mitsubishi Heavy's jet was a "massive cost burden" and "a nightmare project".

Developing the plane in a consortium can spread risks but can also make such a project harder to coordinate, he said.

"The main issue here will probably be the hydrogen side of things if that's what they're going for," he said.

"Conceptually, it's a great idea," and "if anyone's going to develop a hydrogen aircraft then I suppose Japan is well positioned to do so," Bourlet added.

But "the benefits of such and the costs associated with developing that sounds a bit precarious to me".

tmo-hih/kaf/dhw
Former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark made a major slip-up on Wednesday, admitting during a disciplinary hearing to save his law license that he had one client in mind while dodging questions on the basis of attorney-client privilege: former President Donald Trump.

Mr. Clark, you asserted a number of times attorney-client privilege, prompted a committeewoman for the D.C. bar, Patricia Matthews. For whom were you the attorney?

For President Trump, the head of the executive branch, the sole head, the unitary head of Article Two, the executive branch of the United States government, Clark replied.

That was, however, more than Clarks attorney expected him to share, thereafter urging his client to plead the Fifth in an attempt to avoid incriminating himself further.

I would respectfully request my client to invoke questions about the basis for attorney-client privilege because those answers would be intimidating to them as well, said Harry MacDougald, Clarks attorney. So respectfully, I would ask him to invoke.

But the singular defense only made Clark more combative as the hearing went on. At one point, he accused the hearings lead investigator, Hamilton Fox, of attempting to humiliate him, reported Politico.



Clark stands accused of attempting to engage in dishonest conduct on behalf of Trump in the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election. That included Clarks suggestion to send a letter to Georgia officials, underlining a DOJ investigation into the voting process in the state and suggesting that they should void President Joe Bidens win. Clark also held multiple meetings with Trump that violated proper DOJ procedure, actions that the lead investigator described on Tuesday as essentially a coup attempt at the Department of Justice.



Clark is charged alongside Trump, Rudy Giuliani, and more than a dozen others in an alleged racketeering conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia. He has also been identifiedbut not chargedby federal prosecutors in Trumps D.C. trial as part of a larger scheme to help Trump retain power.
AUGUSTA (WJBF)  Every year Jersey Mikes subs designates one day to charities all over the country.

Today, March 27th, the sub companys Day of Giving. Today, 100% of their proceeds will benefit those in need.

The Burn Foundation of America is the charity of choice in the CSRA. Its located at 3614 J. Dewey Gray Circle in Augusta.

Quoting their website, The Burn Foundation of America was founded as the Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation in 1988 by Dr. Joseph M. Still, the namesake of the JMS Burn Center at Doctors Hospital. Dr. Still was dedicated to the continuous improvement of treatments for burn patients, and believed that having family close by was a key factor in the healing process. However, he was distressed to see family members sleeping in the burn center waiting rooms, or their cars, and often wearing the same clothes they had been wearing for days. After witnessing the strain that finding a place to stay and providing for themselves put on the families of burn patients, he was driven to find a solution. With the help of local fire departments and local community leaders, the Burn Foundation of America was formed. Today, JMS Burn Center is the largest in the country, and Dr. Stills dream to provide a place to stay and non-medical necessities for burn patients and their families, remains the Burn Foundation of Americas mission.

The Jeffery Vaden Chavis House is the facility for families of patients at the burn center.

The Chavis House was named in memory of Jeffrey Vaden Chavis, a firefighter from Lexington, SC, who lost his life as a result of burns he received in the line of duty on July 12, 2001. Each year, the Chavis House serves over 1,000 guests from across the United States as their loved ones receive treatment at Doctors Hospital.

So as you make lunch or dinner plans, consider one of the many Jersey Mikes locations in the CSRA and give back to the Burn Foundation of America.

If by chance, youre not up for subs today Jersey Mikes will donate to hospitals, youth organizations, food banks and more the entire month of March.

Customers have the option to round up their purchase to the nearest dollar or donate $1, $3, or $5 when placing their order.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF.
Column A is a symbol of New Jersey's notoriously un-democratic Democratic Party primary. Under the "county line" system, party bosses in each county get to choose which candidates show up in the first column of primary ballots, then urge members to "vote Column A, all the way."

Both parties in all but two counties use this system for primaries. Because New Jersey is a safe blue state, putting a Democrat in Column A is basically coronating them for office. "Column A, all the way" has even become a slogan that politicians use to shout down protesters.

But the county line system may soon become a relic of the past. Sen. Bob Menendez (DN.J.) is facing corruption charges, leaving his seat up for grabs. Rep. Andy Kim, one of the Democratic candidates to replace him, is suing county clerks across the state to have the primary ballot redesigned. Congressional candidates Carolyn Rush and Sarah Schoengood have also joined the lawsuit.

Over the weekend, Kim's main Democratic rival Tammy Murphy dropped out of the Senate primary, and county bosses across the state endorsed Kim, setting up his name to be in Column A. The Burlington County Clerk then implied in a Monday court filing that the lawsuit should be thrown out, since "lead Plaintiff Andy Kim will hold the ballot position this very lawsuit alleges is unconstitutional in every county in the state that utilizes this design."

Kim, Rush, and Schoengood have vowed to press on with their case. In a letter to the court filed on Tuesday night, Kim's lawyers said that he will accept the Column A endorsements but "all Plaintiffs have requested and continue to request" that the system be abolished altogether.

"The clerks' county line primary ballots county line primary ballots continue to violate constitutional rights of all three candidates who are suing, as well as the voters' rights," the plaintiffs' lawyers said in a separate statement to Politico. "New Jersey cannot tolerate one more unconstitutional election."

An expert report submitted to the court by Princeton University neuroscience professor Samuel S.-H. Wang noted that the ballot design is a "powerful force to steer voter behavior towards specific choices." Just looking at a sample ballot in the report is enough to explain why.

(United States District Court for the District of New Jersey)

Surprisingly, the New Jersey state government appears to agree. Attorney General Matt Platkin said that the county line system was "unconstitutional," adding that he would not defend it in court.

The story of this primary race is the story of a clown car of Democratic Party corruption skidding off the road and crashing. The Senate primary opened up after Menendez was indicted in 2023 for taking bribesincluding gold bars and a Mercedesto benefit patrons from Egyptian military intelligence officers and a Qatari-linked real estate developer to a local businessman accused of loan fraud.

It was the second time in a decade that Menendez was charged with corruption. After he was acquitted of bribe-taking charges in 2017, the Democratic Party allowed Menendez to keep his prestigious committee assignments. But this time around, Democrats quickly turned against him, demanding that he resign immediately. Menendez refused.

Tammy Murphy, the wife of Gov. Phil Murphy, stepped in to run for Menendez's seat. Democratic county chairs across the state, many of whom rely on the governor for funding, immediately endorsed her. Murphy's rivals fired back with what The New York Times called "nonstop claims of nepotism."

The governor accused his wife's rivals of sexism. "I bet you if she were my husband it would be a different story," he told the radio station WNYC. But as polls showed Kim beating her by 12 points or more, Murphy dropped out of the race.

Menendez, meanwhile, has turned against the Democratic leadership that used to guarantee his seat. An hour after Murphy announced her candidacy, Menendez accused her husband of "a blatant maneuver at disenfranchisement" and said that "they believe they have to answer to nobody."

More recently, Menendez has threatened to run as an independent. "I will not file for the Democratic primary this June," he said in a March 21 video. "I am hopeful that my exoneration will take place this summer, and allow me to pursue my candidacy as an independent Democrat in the general election."

In a final twist of fate, the lawsuit against the party establishment might benefit Menendez's attempted return to power.

"If the primary ballot access ballot format is held unconstitutional, it should be possible to get reform for the general election ballot format also," noted Richard Winger, editor of Ballot Access News, in a recent article. Bucking the party bosses might become easier for everyoneeven the party bosses themselves.

The post Is This It for New Jersey's Corrupt Primary System? appeared first on Reason.com.
The Bidens' dogs grabbed headlines with their bad behavior, but "First Feline" Willow is getting a book all to herself.

First Lady Jill Biden has written a children's story about the short-haired tabby's journey from a farm in Pennsylvania to the White House in 2022.

With a June publication date, "Willow the White House Cat" will come out four months before President Joe Biden faces a bitter political catfight for reelection with Donald Trump.

"As Willow bounds from room to room, exploring history in her new home, she learns quickly about all of the incredible people who make the 'People's House' run," Jill Biden said in a statement through publisher Simon and Schuster.

"Making many new friends along the way, Willow's journey gives the world a 'cats-eye' view of all the ins and outs of America's most famous address."

Willow is the last remaining presidential pet at the White House after two of the Bidens' dogs were removed following a series of biting incidents.

Commander, a German Shepherd who arrived as a pup in 2021, was sent to live elsewhere after he bit several Secret Service agents. Another dog of the same breed, Major, went to live with family friends after similar biting incidents.

The Bidens' beloved dog Champ died in 2021 at the age of 13.

Meanwhile, Willow herself has political chops. Like Jill Biden she hails from Pennsylvania, which will be a key battleground state in November's election. She is named after the First Lady's hometown, Willow Grove.

Jill Biden, 72, co-wrote the book with author Alyssa Satin Capucilli and illustrated by artist Kate Berube, the publishers said.

The White House has a long history of presidential pets -- even if cats are a relative rarity -- and a number of them had literary journeys.

First Ladies Hillary Clinton and Barbara Bush both wrote books about their pets.

Trump, who is aiming for a sensational White House comeback, was the first president since Andrew Jackson in the 1830s not to have pets.

bur-st/caw
Joe Lieberman, a former longtime Connecticut senator who made history as the first Jewish candidate on a major presidential ticket, igniting a surge of pride in the Jewish community, died on Wednesday. He was 82. He died of complications from a fall, according to his family.



An Orthodox Jew who observed stringent rules around kashrut and Shabbat, Lieberman didnt compromise his religious observance during his political career. For rare Senate votes that occurred on Saturdays, Lieberman walked to the U.S. Capitol to cast a vote. He won the adoration and pride of the U.S. Jewish community in 2000 as the running mate to Democratic presidential candidate Al Gore, an election lost by several hundred votes in Florida. Many Jews backed his unsuccessful Democratic presidential primary campaign in 2004.



As the Democratic Party ticked leftward in the post-9/11 era, Lieberman began to find himself alienated from the party that fueled his political career. He served three terms in the Senate as a Democrat after first being elected in 1988. In 2006, he faced a Democratic primary opponent who challenged Lieberman  a foreign policy hawk  over his support for the Iraq war. Lieberman lost the primary but stayed in the race as an Independent, ultimately beating the Democrat to win his fourth and final term in office. Two years later, Lieberman endorsed his Republican colleague John McCain for president in 2008.



In recent years, Lieberman faced criticism from Democrats after becoming a prominent spokesperson for No Labels, the political organization that is seeking to field a third-party candidate in the 2024 presidential election. Last week, he wrote an op-ed in The Wall Street Journal arguing that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) crossed a political red line when he called for Israelis to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.



Lieberman grew up in Stamford, Conn., the son of a liquor store owner. He attended Yale College and Yale Law School, and worked as a lawyer in Connecticut before running for office. Lieberman was first elected in 1970 to the Connecticut state Senate. He won with help from a Yale Law volunteer named Bill Clinton. He served in the state Senate for 10 years before losing a congressional bid in 1980.





Joe Lieberman pick

20 years later, Joe Lieberman reflects back on the moment he was picked by Gore Read more

Throughout his career, his campaigns often relied on strong bipartisan support. When he ran for attorney general in 1982, he was endorsed by National Review editor William F. Buckley Jr., whom he met while a student at Yale. Both men had been editor of the Yale Daily News.



In the Senate, Lieberman developed strong foreign policy bona fides. Early in his career in Washington, he sided with President George H.W. Bush in voting to authorize the first Persian Gulf War. He helped establish the 9/11 Commission soon after the terrorist attacks and played a pivotal role in the creation of the Department of Homeland Security.



Lieberman spoke out clearly and eloquently on moral issues, saying: We in government should look to religion as a partner, as I think the founders of our country did. He famously denounced in 2000 the marketing of violent movies, music and video games to children. His national profile grew when he condemned former President Bill Clintons personal behavior as wrong and unacceptable and said he deserved some measure of public rebuke and accountability. But he voted against Clintons impeachment.



Throughout his career, Lieberman often drew upon his Jewish faith in his public remarks. He published a 2011 book, The Gift of Rest, making the case for the importance of the Sabbath.



My Jewish faith is central to my life. I was raised in a religiously observant family. Given to me by my parents and formed by my rabbis, my faith has provided me with a foundation, an order, and a sense of purpose in my life, Lieberman said in a 2011 speech at Brigham Young University. It has much to do with the way I strive to navigate in a constructive way through every day, both personally and professionally, in ways that are large and small.




On Wednesday, March 27, Russian occupants struck Kharkiv, hitting apartment buildings. As a result of the terrorist shelling of a residential neighborhood of the city, there were killed and wounded.

ADVERTISIMENT

This was reported by the head of the regional military administration Oleg Syniehubov in Telegram. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov also reported on the situation in the city on his Telegram channel.

According to Syniehubov, the Russians struck twice in the Shevchenkivskyi district of Kharkiv.

"Civilian residential infrastructure has been damaged," the head of the military administration said.

According to Mr. Syniehubov, one person was killed and at least ten people sustained injuries of varying degrees. Four children are among the wounded. He later clarified that a civilian man was killed.

"The attack hit a residential neighborhood in Kharkiv, apartment buildings. There are dead and wounded. This is another act of bloody terror against Ukrainians," the mayor wrote.

Terekhov clarified that the number of wounded has increased to 12 and may continue to grow.

ADVERTISIMENT

"There are already 12 wounded. We are going around the apartments in the affected buildings. We are looking for those who need help," the mayor wrote.

Currently, the relevant services are inspecting the hit sites. The type of weapon that was used to strike the city is also being established.

Subsequently, Syniehubov said that according to preliminary data, today the enemy struck Kharkiv for the first time with a large-caliber guided munition.

As of 17:00, the number of wounded increased to 16, the mayor said.

We remind you that the day before, in the afternoon of March 26, Russian occupants also struck the civilian residential infrastructure of Kharkiv, there were hits in the Shevchenkivskyi district. The enemy attack hit a residential area, fortunately, there were no injured or killed.

As reported by OBOZ.UA:

ADVERTISIMENT

On the night of March 26, Russia attacked Kharkiv with Shaheds. An enemy drone hit the roadway. There were no casualties: the guard of a non-residential building near the site of the hit was not injured.

On Saturday, March 23, the aggressor country shelled Kharkiv again. An industrial enterprise came under attack.

On the night of March 23, the Russian terrorist army attacked Kharkiv with Shahed kamikaze drones. Putin's troops hit the city three times. A rescuer and a police officer were injured after the second enemy attack.

After the massive shelling of Kharkiv by the Russian terrorist army on March 22, the city experienced serious problems with its electricity supply. Utilities are working to repair the damage, but it will not be possible to repair the power grid over the weekend.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes!
Joseph Lieberman, the longtime U.S. senator from Connecticut who became the first Jewish candidate of a major party when Al Gore selected him as his running mate in the 2000 election, has died at the age of 82.

Marc E. Kasowitz of law firm Kasowitz Benson Torres, where Lieberman took a position as Senior Counsel for more than a decade after serving 24 years in the Senate, confirmed his death in a statement to Rolling Stone. We are profoundly saddened at the passing of our firms senior counsel Senator Joe Lieberman, wrote Kasowitz. He continued: We are grateful for his many contributions to our success, and we are proud that he continued to the end to be such an important voice for Americas greatest values We extend our deepest sympathies to Hadassah, to Senator Liebermans entire family.

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn), who took over Liebermans seat after he retired from the Senate, expressed the states shock over his sudden death. In an era of political carbon copies, Joe Lieberman was a singularity. One of one, wrote Murphy. He fought and won for what he believed was right and for the state he adored.

While Lieberman prided himself as a centrist Democrat  grounding his stance in support of abortion rights, environmental protection, gay rights, and gun control  he often pushed back against Democratic orthodoxy. Throughout his career in politics, he led the fight with Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) to overturn restrictions on gays and lesbians in the U.S. military, spearheaded opposition to the Obama administrations Iran nuclear deal, and became one of the legislative architects of the Department of Homeland Security, which was established after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Liebermans support for Israel and opposition to the Iran nuclear deal led to his endorsement of former President Donald Trumps decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. He later supported Trumps controversial nomination of Betsy DeVos  a charter school and voucher advocate  to be education secretary. In 2017, Lieberman, who was 75 years old at the time, was Trumps reported top pick to head the FBI.

Still, the former Connecticut senator also backed the Democratic presidential nominees in 2016 and 2020  Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, respectively. In July 2023, he told the Atlantic, The last thing Id ever want to be part of is bringing Donald Trump back to the Oval Office.

Lieberman often aligned himself with two Republican colleagues, Lindsey Graham from South Carolina and the late Sen. John McCain. McCain considered choosing Lieberman as his running mate on the 2008 GOP presidential ticket but picked Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin instead after garnering criticism from conservatives over Liebermans liberal background.

In retirement, Lieberman co-chaired No Labels, the centrist group that prepared to field a third-party presidential unity ticket in 2024 and aimed to promote bipartisanship  drawing the ire of Democrats who believe it would siphon votes from President Biden and hand the election to Trump. Over the past year, the organization has been leading a reported $70 million campaign to secure ballot access nationwide for a potential ticket. (No Labels has refused to disclose whos funding this effort, claiming that this is to protect its donors from agitators and partisan operatives.)

The greatest obstacle I see standing between us and the brighter American future we all want is right here in Washington, he told colleagues, per the Washington Post. It is the partisan polarization of our politics which prevents us from making the principled compromises on which progress in a democracy depends.

More from Rolling Stone

Best of Rolling Stone
People hold a protest in support of Palestinians in Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Amman

People hold a protest in support of Palestinians in Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Amman

By Suleiman Al-Khalidi

AMMAN (Reuters) - Jordanian anti-riot police beat and arrested dozens of demonstrators trying to march towards the heavily guarded Israeli embassy in the capital Amman, witnesses and residents said on Wednesday.

More than two thousand protesters gathered late on Tuesday, the third day of demonstrations which have been marred with clashes, after baton wielding police pushed back hundreds of angry crowds seeking to storm the embassy compound in the affluent Rabae district of Amman.

The Israeli embassy, where protesters gather daily, has long been a flashpoint of anti-Israel protests at times of escalation of violence between Palestinians and Israel.

Many demonstrators chanted slogans in support of the militant Islamist Hamas. Jordanian authorities are alarmed that Israel's bombing campaign in Gaza could broaden the popularity of the Hamas movement among many Jordanians.

"Oh Hamas...All of Jordan's people are behind you," the protesters chanted.

Passions have run high among Jordanians, many of whom are of Palestinian origin, over the carnage in Gaza as Israel's relentless bombing campaign against Hamas has led to tens of thousands of civilian deaths, according to Gaza officials, and flattened many parts of the densely populated enclave.

Jordan has seen some of the biggest outpourings of public anger in the region since the war was triggered when Hamas fighters crossed into southern Israel on Oct.7 , killing 1,200 people and capturing 253 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

Authorities in Jordan say peaceful protests are allowed but they would not tolerate any attempt by mobs who sought to exploit anger against Israel to create havoc or try to reach a border zone with the Israeli occupied West Bank or Israel.

Amnesty International last month called on Jordanian authorities to end what it said was a sweeping crackdown that has seen hundreds of people arrested for expressing their support for Palestinians in Gaza or criticising Jordanian government polices towards Israel.

Many demonstrators slam perceived inaction by authorities, saying their compatriots in Gaza were being left to face Israel's military might alone.

Jordan's peace treaty with Israel is widely unpopular among many citizens who see normalisation as betraying the rights of their Palestinian compatriots.

(Reporting by Suleiman Al-Khalidi; Editing by Michael Perry)
Like Federico Fellini, whose spirit hovers over her latest, Italian director Alice Rohrwacher has a genuine appreciation for faces, and she seizes upon a fine one in Josh OConnor, whose alternately pleasant and surly countenance conceals as much as it expresses in La Chimera.

As an English expat traipsing about 1980s Tuscany in search of precious and elusive objects of desire, The Crown alum vacillates between pensive and impulsive, despairing and determined, his shifts in thought, demeanor, and perspective written intriguingly on his scruffy and sweaty visage. As a man with the gift of finding lost things, hes the beguiling center of Rohrwachers attention, and his superb performance is the engine that drives this enchanting import about life and death, yesterday and today, and magic and realism.

Premiering in U.S. cinemas on March 29 following acclaimed showings at last years Cannes, Toronto, and New York film festivals, La Chimera fluidly intermingles its own dreams (of cinemas past) with those of its protagonist Arthur (OConnor), whos introduced sleeping in a train car, his slumbering reveriesdepicted as 16mm home moviesfixated on Beniamina (Yile Vianello), who in intimate close-up asks him, Have you noticed the sun is following us?

Shes referring to the star in the sky as well as the one tattooed on her shoulder, and while her comments full meaning wont be clear until the storys conclusion, it suggests ideasof pursuit, and searchingthat course through the films veins. Upon waking, Arthur charmingly tells one of his cabins female occupants that she has an ancient profile. Then he abruptly switches gears when a perfume salesman mocks his stench and he lashes out at the huckster, thereby emptying his quarters.

Josh OConnor Courtesy of Lincoln Center

Arthurs sour mood continues when he fails to avoid being picked up by his old friend Pirro (Vincenzo Nemolato) at the station and is taken to the town square where other acquaintances want to celebrate his return. Instead, he storms off to his home, a decrepit shack thats held up by wooden posts, boasts a roof of corrugated metal, and sits against a stone wall on the edge of a hill. This messy abode is a perfect reflection of Arthur, whose cream-colored linen suit looks like it hasnt been washed in forever (which may be true), whose socks are as ratty as his sandals, and whose cheeks are smudged and, as time goes on, covered in scraggly hair.

Hes far from put-together, although hes nonetheless a welcome sight to Flora (Isabella Rossellini), who now gets around her crumbling house in a wheelchair and with the aid of Italia (Carol Duarte), to whom she gives singing lessons, and who in turn functions as her de facto servant. Flora tells Arthur not to abandon hope about Beniaminas forthcoming return, and shes then joined by her daughters and granddaughters, who fuss and flitter about like clucking chickens, criticizing both their matriarch and Italia.

La Chimera is filled with gaggles of distinctive individuals chatting and carousing in a boisterous, jubilant, boozy, messy manner that recalls Fellini and Pier Paolo Pasolini, and yet Rohrwacher is far from a simple imitator. Instead, she casts her own idiosyncratic spell via a collection of self-conscious touchescompositions that rotate to gaze at Arthur upside-down, and one instance in which a character turns to the camera, mid-sentence, to finish her commentthat draw us deeper into the action.

Ewan McGregor Almost Rescues A Gentleman in Moscow Series

Coughing from an illness thats not helped by his dwelling, which he heats with a paltry propane tank, Arthur is a man floating through a sea of colorful men and women. When he gazes at a string fluttering in the wind, its not just a sight related to Beniamina; its also an evocation of his own unmoored circumstances, this despite the fact that, as is soon revealed, hes the leader of a most unusual gang.

Teasing its details in order to heighten engagement with its plot, La Chimera eventually outs Arthur as a wayward archaeologist whos recently been released from prison, and who has remarkable divination powers that he uses to locate buried Etruscan artifacts which he sells to the mysterious Spartaco (Alba Rohrwacher). The actual location of these objects, however, are tombs, making Arthur a tombarolo (i.e. a grave robber), and therefore a person on the polices perpetual radar.

This is far from a noble calling, and while it serves as fodder for a folk song performed during one of the criminals post-heist celebrations, it interferes with his budding relationship with Italia, an independent spirit whos secretly housing her two children in Floras home. Tensions between whats on the surface and what lurks below (and who owns what) are mirrored by Arthurs yearning to reclaim that which is interred and then, once acquired, to sell it offa love-hate dynamic that complicates any easy understanding of his heart and mind.

Josh OConnor and Carol Duarte Courtesy of Lincoln Center

Sparta says that her job is "to estimate the inestimable, and a sense of the obscure and ephemeral is everywhere in La Chimera. Rohrwacher suggests rather than explains, and her material moves at a shuffling, raggedy gait that echoes Arthurs stumbling journey through the world. At the same time, though, it exudes a lively spirit of criminal adventure whenever Arthur and his crooked compatriots embark on hunts for lootexpeditions that peak with their discovery of an enormous crypt housing a priceless statue of an animal goddess.

In this figures face, Arthur sees the two women he covets, and instigates a temporary change of heart that alienates him from most of his clan. Still, the pleasures of the straight-and-narrow cant compete with the lure of the illicit life, just as the warmth of those he can hold cant overpower his desire to reconnect with the love hes lost. The film thus swings and sways about on its march to a resolution of poignant poeticism in which communion is both a triumph and a tragedy.

Composed to seem at once off-the-cuff and mannered (replete with varying film stocks), La Chimera blends sweetness, sorrow, and silliness with a lyrical touch. Moreover, via OConnors troubled, haggard eyesand Arthurs occasional use of sign language to communicate with Italiait conveys its own complicated feelings about the tangible and intangible without uttering a word.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Sawalha also called on producers to stop casting young actresses to play wives of older male actors. - ITV/Stuart Wood/Shutterstock

Middle-aged actresses only get offered roles like the twisted old b----, Absolutely Fabulous star Julia Sawalha has said.

Sawalha, 55, claimed roles given to actresses her age are the same that were given to women in the 1940s.

She said women in their fifties are neglected by the TV and film industry as they are viewed as not interesting.

Sawalha also called on producers to stop casting young actresses to play wives of older male actors.

In 2020, when Chicken Run 2 was announced, Sawalha spoke out about alleged ageism.

The English actress voiced the main character Ginger in the first Chicken Run movie in 2000 but was not re-cast in the sequel just over 20 years later.

At the time, she claimed she was told she sounded too old to reprise the starring role in the film, which was released in 2023.

Sawalha said not being asked back to voice Ginger (centre) in Chicken Run was 'the hardest rejection I've dealt with in my career' - DreamWorks

Now, in a new interview, Sawalha has criticised a lack of roles for women in their 50s.

She told the RHLSTP podcast: Chicken Run was the hardest rejection Ive dealt with in my career and I think thats in the way the message was delivered to me.

It was a blow and I fought for it with the creatives because I felt that possibly I should have been allowed to have a voice test.

She said although the industry has improved a little, it has a long way to go.

Sawalha suggested roles are still the same for women as they were in the 1940s when middle-aged women looked exactly the same.

She said: I think its getting better for older women, I think for male actors its getting harder for them.

I dont like the way that younger actresses are always cast against older actors to play husband and wife, that still hasnt changed.

Sawalha is best known for her role as Saffy Monsoon in the BBC sitcom Absolutely Fabulous - TCD/VP/LMKMEDIA

She added: And actresses in their fifties - Im 55 - you get roles sent to you and youre some bitter old, twisted old b---- that the husband doesnt want.

You never get the glamorous... Basically, theyre still writing for women like women were in the 40s. Every single woman in this audience will be wearing something different, whereas in the 40s...

I saw something on Twitter, someone said, please post a picture yourself, please post a picture of your grandmother, and all the women posted a picture of themselves in their fifties and their grandmothers in their 50s, and all the women in the 1940s looked exactly the same in their fifties.

But writers arent writing for women in their fifties, its like we dont have a life, its like were not interesting, and thats frustrating.

Sawalha added: But, its changing.

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Phoebe Plummer poses with the letter before posting it - unaware that she has gone to the wrong address - THOMAS BOWLES PHOTOGRAPHY

A Just Stop Oil poster girl who tried to post a letter to a Labour frontbencher as part of a campaign stunt bungled by delivering it to the wrong address - in the wrong London borough.

The group warned Wes Streeting, the shadow health and social care secretary, they would be calling at his home on Wednesday with a letter calling on him to quit Labour if it failed in government to cancel all oil and gas licences granted by the Tories since 2022.

At about 3.15pm, video posted on X, formerly Twitter, showed Phoebe Plummer, who became one of the groups most famous faces when she threw soup over a Van Gogh painting, walking down a road carrying a letter.

Phoebe Plummer posts the letter. Just Stop Oil later asked the homeowner to forward the letter to Wes Streeting - THOMAS BOWLES PHOTOGRAPHY

The post read: Metropolitan Police youre losing your touch. Phoebe broke bail today delivering a letter to Wes Streeting, despite being arrested twice for delivering letters before. Whats going on?

In the video, Ms Plummer says: Should I go hand myself in for breaking bail? That seems pretty harmless, but it was worth arresting me for last time.

But Mr Streeting, the MP for Ilford North, replied to the climate activist to point out that not only had she delivered the letter to the wrong address, but she was not even in the right area.

He wrote: I dont know which poor sod got your letter, but that isnt my house. If you want to write to me, you can do so quite easily via Parliament or my constituency office. Constituents can also visit my surgeries.

He added: It isnt even my borough.

Wes Streeting replied to the Just Stop Oil post to point out the error, adding a clown emoji - X

Just Stop Oil then acknowledged its gaffe and asked the homeowner who received the letter to forward it to Mr Streeting.

The incident follows a string of similar stunts in recent weeks in which JSO has targeted Labour politicians.

Ms Plummer was arrested outside the home of Emily Thornberry, the shadow attorney general, on March 14 after posting a letter through the Labour MPs letterbox.

Footage showed the privately educated 22-year-old taunting police and telling them she is breaching bail conditions by delivering mail to an MPs house.

She was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to burgle and of sending malicious communication and hauled into the back of a police van.

The Metropolitan Police was contacted for comment.

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A K9 with the Huber Heights Police Department received a bulletproof vest this week.

K9 Samo, with the Huber Heights Police Department, was given a new bulletproof vest on Monday, March 25.

>> Final numbers of Texas Roadhouse fundraiser for Logan County to be released today

The Ohio Law Enforcement K9 Association provided the bulletproof vest from Bullet Blocker, according to a Facebook post.

Huber Heights Police Officer Waler is K9 Samos Handler.

OLEKA takes safety very seriously for all of our members  two-legged and four. It is our mission to see that every Ohio Police K-9 has a bullet and stab resistant vest, OLEKA said on their official website.

Congratulations to K9 Samo of Huber Heights, OH police department. K9 Samo received his new bullet proof Vest from Bullet Blocker and provided by OLEKA. Officer Waler is the proud handler of Samo. Posted by Ohio Law Enforcement K-9 Association on Monday, March 25, 2024
The Republican-controlled Kansas state Legislature passed a bill Tuesday requiring abortion providers to ask patients the reason for their procedure and report the information to the state, a move critics say creates an unnecessary hurdle for patients to receive reproductive care.

The state Senate passed the bill in a 27-13 party-line vote on Tuesday, after the Kansas House voted to advance it earlier this month. Gov. Laura Kelly (D), an abortion rights supporter, is expected to veto the measure, though it appears to have enough support for her veto to be overridden.

The law comes after Kansans passed a constitutional right to abortion access in 2022 in a major win for abortion rights activists, despite opposition among the states Republican-controlled Legislature.

The Kansas vote was the first in the country after the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision that summer, which sparked a wave of abortion rights votes in response to the fall of federal protections.

The new bill requires providers to ask patients a series of 11 questions about their reasoning for receiving an abortion, including questions about not being able to afford a child, career implications, family situation, or other reasons. The patient would not be required to answer, and the responses would be reported to the state.

GOP lawmakers said the effort doesnt go against the spirit of the 2022 vote but merely provides lawmakers with better data to make decisions on abortion care.

Providers would also record a patients age, race, marital status, education and other demographic data with a confidential code that allows it to stay anonymous.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Kari Lake built her entire political brand on MAGA lies which she insisted were true. And yet, on Tuesday she and her lawyers decided they wont mount a defense in a suit brought by an Arizona GOP election official who accused her of defaming him falsely and with actual malice.

As an Arizona Republican gubernatorial candidate in 2022, she co-opted former President Donald Trumps lies about the 2020 election as the basis of her campaign, and when early primary results showed her losing her race, she immediately alleged election fraud and corruption. And yet, she ended up winning the GOP primary, and suddenly the fraud disappeared.

Kari Lake Wont Fight Arizona Election Officials Defamation Suit

But Lake lost the general election that November, and her claims of corruption and a stolen election returned. She declared herself to be the lawful governor of Arizona until she announced her campaign for Senate last year.

She also used election-denier rhetoric to raise well over $3 million AFTER she lost the governors race. She still has election appeals pending in Arizona courts, and recently appealed her federal court case claiming Arizonas voting and mail-in ballot program as unconstitutional. (The lower court dismissed the case early and Lakes lawyers were sanctioned over $120,000.)

On Tuesday, Lake filed a motion in the defamation case brought against her by Republican Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer, asking the court for an expedited default ordereffectively an act of surrender.

This violates MAGA's first tenet... never admit you are wrong. Now, her brand is destroyed.

I interviewed Lake a few weeks ago and asked her three times how the election was stolen and who did it. She finally admitted she did not know. This, combined with her surrender in court, is a profound public humiliation that will kill her election chances and drag down the Arizona Republican slate, including Trump, with her.

The Utter Ridiculousness of Trump Bibles

Among the claims Lake wont defend in court are her accusations that Richer sabotaged the 2022 electionincluding the insertion of over 300,000 ballots and purposely misprinting the ballots.

Richer, by contrast, is a conservative Republican who takes his oath and duties seriously. Richer spent his first term investigating allegations of election fraud and corruption from his own party, and finding none, told the truththere is no evidence of election fraud or corruption.

Refusing to play into the Big Lie resulted in Richer being the target of MAGA conspiracy theories, led by Lake, and now Richer faces a MAGA primary challenge steeped in more lies and conspiracy theories.

Just six months ago, Lake called Stephen Richer evil and said there is nothing anyone can do to make me stop fighting this because the truth is on our side.

These smears resulted in death threats against Mr. Richer, the need for around-the-clock security to protect him and his family, and an assault on his reputation from which he may never recover.

As a result of Richers suit, the presumptive Republican nominee for Senate in Arizona now faces a monetary judgment in the millions (if not tens of millions) of dollars. But the biggest punishment will be if her MAGA supporters abandon her for admitting defeat.

Kari Lake Is Choosing to Be a Loser

The court, in denying Lakes previous motions to dismiss, noted her statements about Mr. Richer were provably false, but that did not slow Lakes claims that the truth will set her free. (A representative for Lake insisted to The Daily Beast that the candidate maintains she has always been truthful but will not play the lawfare game.)

MAGA supporters, who seem much more interested in the fight than facts and evidence, will certainly be disgusted by Lakes unwillingness to do legal battle over her own words and actions.

Lets hope this is the beginning of the end of the Kari Lake experience. Trump already rejected her as a potential VP, and rumors persist that he actively sought another Arizona Republican to run for Senate instead of Lake. Trump reportedly sees Lake as a drag on the ticket.

Her surrender and refusal to fight will not help that perception.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Kari Lake, an election-denying Republican running for the U.S. Senate in Arizona, indicated Tuesday she will not defend the comments at the heart of a defamation lawsuit brought by a top GOP election official.

Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer filed a lawsuit against Lake last year, alleging that she had falsely accused him of intentionally sabotaging the 2022 Arizona gubernatorial election that she lost, leading to violent threats against him and his family.

Lakes attorneys petitioned the court for a default judgment hearing, which would effectively bypass the process of defending her statements and skip forward to determining what damages are owed, if any.

Reacting to Tuesdays filing on X, formerly Twitter, Richer cast the move as a complete and total surrender on liability. Meaning it was always all B.S.

Jared Davidson, an attorney at Protect Democracy, which is representing Richer, said Lakes maneuver suggested she was unable to defend herself.

Given an opportunity to back up her claims in court, she has instead conceded she has no defense  effectively admitting that she spread lies about Mr. Richer and did so with actual malice, Davidson said in a statement released on Tuesday. The only thing left to do now is to determine the amount of the damage done to Mr. Richer as a result of Defendants misconduct.

Lake was defiant on social media, claiming in a lengthy post on X shared Tuesday that shes the victim of a weaponized legal system and political witch hunt, while likening herself to former President Donald Trump.

She also claimed in a video shared on X that she had declined to participate in the lawsuit because it would only serve to legitimize this perversion of our legal system.

Lake, a devoted Trump ally, has repeatedly peddled election fraud lies about her failed 2022 gubernatorial bid as well as Trumps 2020 loss.

Related...
Kari Lake at a campaign event in Scottsdale on Oct. 19, 2022. Photo by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy | Arizona Mirror

Kari Lake wont defend herself in Stephen Richers defamation case against her. In doing so, she has essentially admitted fault, even though she claims she hasnt.

While Lake tried to spin the news as her refusal to participate in what she called a political witch hunt, she missed the courts Monday deadline to respond to Richers claims, meaning that she and the other defendants  her husband, her campaign and a nonprofit company that raised money on her behalf  defaulted on the case and have conceded legal liability for defaming Richer.

After months of doubling down and defending their lies across Arizona, in the media, and on social media, when push came to shove, the Defendants decided to completely back down and concede that their lies were just that: lies, Richer said in a statement.

Lakes lawyers, Tim La Sota and Jennifer Wright, did not respond to a request for comment, except to point the Arizona Mirror to a video that Lake posted on the social media site X, formerly Twitter.

In the video, Lake did not address any of the claims in the suit or in Richers latest filing, in which he accused her lawyers of refusing to meet or discuss scheduling in the case in an effort to stall.

Instead, she lashed out at Richer and his East Coast lawyers, who she said were only aiming to interfere with her ongoing campaign for U.S. Senate.

Richer filed the defamation suit last June, after dealing with months of unfounded claims from Lake and her supporters that he was somehow involved in election fraud in Maricopa Countys 2022 election, in which Lake lost her bid for Arizona governor to Democrat Katie Hobbs.

That was months prior to Lakes announcement in October that she would run for U.S. Senate.

The suit specifically focuses on Lakes claim that Richer intentionally printed 19-inch images on 20-inch ballots to sabotage the 2022 general election, resulting in 300,000 illegal, invalid, phony or bogus early ballots being counted in Maricopa County.

Lake made those same claims in her court challenge to the results of the 2022 election, and she lost that case at every level of the Arizona court system, with the judges finding that her team never supplied evidence that fraud, malfeasance or maladministration lost her the election.

La Sota and Wright on Tuesday filed a motion asking for a default judgment and requesting a jury to adjudicate factual disputes. But Phoenix personal injury lawyer and frequent Lake critic Tom Ryan explained to the Mirror that, when they defaulted, Lakes lawyers missed their chance to dispute the facts of the case.

You dont get to do that, Ryan said of the request. He added that a default in a case like this is tantamount to unconditional surrender.

Ryan said the only thing Lake and her attorneys can legally dispute now is the amount of damages they will owe Richer.

One of the attorneys representing Richer, Jared Davidson with Protect Democracy, told the Mirror that Lake has been given ample time to prove her claims about Richer and has failed to do so for a simple and obvious reason: They are false.

Let me be clear: As opaque as the legal filing is today and confusing or colorful as the video spin may be, the consequences of this filing could not be clearer, Davidson said. Ms. Lake is conceding that she had no evidence to defend against our claims that she defamed our client.

Far from admitting guilt, Lake accused the political elite of engaging in lawfare against her, comparing her situation to that of former President Donald Trump, who is in the midst of three criminal court cases.

They know they cant beat either of us fair and square, so they hit us with lawsuits to keep us tied up and off the campaign trail, Lake said.

Lake even doubled down on her claims in the video, saying that the suit was a continued attempt to interfere with the 2024 election.

By participating in this lawsuit, it would only serve to legitimize this perversion of our legal system and allow bad actors to interfere in our upcoming election, she said. So, I wont be taking part. Instead, I will focus on the issues that matter to the people of Arizona.

Lakes statements in the video are a sharp turn from a post on social media just a couple of months ago that she was looking forward to the discovery of evidence in the case.

Ryan thinks that the discovery process, in which both sides would have to provide information pertinent to the case to the other side, including private communications like text messages between Lake and others, is exactly why she and her lawyers chose to default.

Theyre trying to avoid their duty of disclosure to Richer, he said, adding that he believes they were doing it unartfully.

Ryan predicted that Lake and her lawyers will be sanctioned for their actions, and that Lake will likely be ordered to participate in the discovery and disclosure process even with a default judgment.

Were looking forward to the opportunity to show evidence that she and her co defendants have caused real harm, Davidson said. Well have a compelling presentation that will hopefully send a message that, when you defame individuals, and especially election administrators and public officials, there are real consequences.

Davidson would not say how much Richer is looking to obtain in damages.

Because of their actions, my family and I have faced an endless barrage of threats  including calls for our execution  I have lost close personal relationships, and I have had my reputation irreparably damaged, Richer said in his statement. I have said from the beginning that no one is above the rule of law and today further validates that belief. I look forward to entering the damages phase of this case.

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The post Kari Lake gives up and wont defend herself in Stephen Richers defamation lawsuit appeared first on Arizona Mirror.
The Nobel laureates addressed an open letter to world leaders. They noted that Ukraine, which has become a victim of a full-scale bloody war unleashed by Russia, must win. Therefore, the world must unite and help Ukraine achieve victory, as it will be the key to preserving peace, progress, and human rights on the planet.

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At the same time, the signatories called on the world not to recognize Vladimir Putin's "re-election" for another presidential term, as the Russian ruler has turned Russia into a militarized police state with nuclear weapons that threatens the existence of the planet. So far, 39 Nobel Prize winners have signed the open letter, and the collection of signatures is ongoing, with the text published on the T-invariant website.

The authors of the appeal recalled Putin's crimes, especially in recent years, both against Ukraine and within Russia.

"Two years ago, Vladimir Putin unleashed an unprovoked full-scale aggression against Ukraine, which has led to deaths and destruction unseen since World War II. This war has been accompanied by an increasingly brutal crackdown on political life and freedom of speech in Russia itself. Recently, the world was shocked by the death of Alexei Navalny, an opponent of Putin. Before he was imprisoned, tortured, and ultimately killed, Navalny survived an attempted poisoning with chemical weapons organized by the Putin regime. Despite this horrific assassination attempt, he returned to Russia," the letter says.

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The authors of the open letter emphasize that Navalny's murder and Russia's bloody aggression against Ukraine are not only about the countries where these crimes were committed. They concern the entire international community.

"The Putin regime has shown that it is a direct and clear threat to all of humanity. Since coming to power in 2000, Putin has systematically destroyed post-Soviet democratic institutions and fomented conflicts in the countries of the former USSR. The full-scale aggression against Ukraine and the murder of Alexei Navalny are a new level of threats, as the Putin regime no longer sees any limits to its violations of human rights and international norms," the authors of the letter are convinced.

The First and Second World Wars, which raged across the globe in the twentieth century and claimed millions of lives, have become a lesson for the world. Humanity, the signatories of the appeal note, has realized that it can avoid self-destruction only if it adheres to the principles of democracy and strictly observes international human rights law. And today's Russia is trying to destroy these traditions.

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"The Putin regime has cynically trampled on them. The tragedies of totalitarianism call for respect for the freedom and dignity of the individual. Putin openly mocks them. He has turned Russia into an extremely militarized police state with the largest nuclear arsenal, which poses a threat to the very existence of the world. Alexei Navalny and other leaders of the Russian opposition have constantly reminded us of this threat, following the lead of their prominent predecessor, the 1975 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Academician Andrii Sakharov," the letter reads.

That is why the most prominent scientists from all over the world, as well as people who have made a special contribution to preventing the planet from plunging into a whirlpool of new wars, chaos, and self-destruction, called on political leaders of all countries to "stand with all their might for peace, progress, and human rights" and not to repeat the mistakes of their predecessors who once tried to appease Adolf Hitler and ended up with the worst war in history.

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"As members of the international scientific community, we are deeply concerned that scientific progress is threatened by dictators who suppress intellectual freedom, especially when global cooperation is so important in the face of pandemics, climate change, and the existential threat of weapons of mass destruction. We call on world leaders and all people of goodwill to abandon any illusions about Mr. Putin and his criminal regime. History teaches us that appeasement of an aggressor leads to further crimes against humanity. No temporary benefits can justify this. We strongly oppose the repetition of Munich 1938!" the scientists called.

The first demand of the Nobel laureates to the world leaders is a significant increase in aid to Ukraine. After all, they are convinced, "Ukraine must win this war, not just 'not lose'."

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"Timely assistance to Ukrainians will reduce the loss of human lives and help drive the aggressor from their land. Putin's failures during the military aggression will be perceived as a moral victory by millions of Russians, strengthen their hopes for a democratic future, and mobilize the anti-war movement," the signatories are convinced.

At the same time, they consider it necessary for the international community to support human rights and the democratic opposition in Russia. In particular, the world must intervene and protect political prisoners in Russia who are being tortured and threatened with physical destruction.

In addition, the letter calls for increasing support for Russian citizens facing repression for their democratic and anti-war political beliefs and in need of asylum, support for Russian democratic anti-Putin organizations and independent media in Russia, and finally, delegitimization of Putin's illegal holding of power in Russia by not recognizing him as re-elected president.

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"We call on all people of goodwill and civil society organizations to use all resources available to them to actively influence political leaders to resist Russian aggression and support Ukraine. In memory of Alexei Navalny, who gave his life for this cause, we emphasize the importance of promoting democracy and the rule of law for Russia to become part of the community of democracies. Together, we can contribute to peace in Europe and prevent a global catastrophe," the authors of the letter summarized.

So far, the appeal has been signed by 39 Nobel laureates, including Belarusian writer Svetlana Aleksievich and Ukrainian human rights activist Oleksandra Matviichuk, who won the Nobel Peace Prize.

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Kari Lake is all but throwing in the towel against an Arizona election official who sued her for defamation, notifying a court on Tuesday she has no intention of defending her claims that he deliberately wrecked her gubernatorial campaign in 2022.

Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer, a 38-year-old Republican, filed his lawsuit last June. He said Lake had falsely accused him of intentionally [printing] 19-inch images on 20-inch ballots, resulting in the counting of 300,000 illegal, invalid, phony or bogus early ballots.

She also targeted him on social media, according to the complaint, assailing him as an incompetent, corrupt fool and a reprehensible human being.

In a statement last December, after a judge denied Lakes bid to get his suit tossed, Richer said, My family and I have faced endless and vile threats, including calls for our execution, and Ive lost important personal relationships and seen my reputation severely damaged by the Defendants. He added that he was looking forward to continuing his pursuit of justice.

On Tuesday, Lake, a Trump protege currently running a campaign for Senate in Arizona, formally petitioned the court to hold a default judgment hearing, motioning to skip straight to the process of determining whether Richer is owed damages, and if so, how much.

Kari Lake Is Now Trying to Court Arizona Republicans She Trashed

Richer said in an interview with The Daily Beast that a request for a default judgment was certainly not what we expected from Lake, calling the highly unusual move peculiar.

This might shock you, but I have no great insight into the mind of Kari Lake, he remarked.

Still, Richer celebrated it as a victory. For a person who both says she never surrenders, and who claims she has all the evidence at her disposalI think its fairly telling, he said.

In a tweet, Richer called Lakes motion a [c]omplete and total surrender on liability for defamation. Meaning it was always all B.S., he added.

A representative for Lake told The Daily Beast that she maintains she has always been truthful.

She will not play the lawfare game, they continued. Just like they went after President Trump, theyre now targeting Kari Lake.

Lake compared herself to the former president again in a video statement addressing the matter on Tuesday evening, saying that East Coast lawyers funded by special interests intent on halting her campaign and bleeding her dry were behind the frivolous suit.

It is a political witch hunt and everyone knows it, she said, deploying one of Trumps favorite terms. By participating in this lawsuit, it would only serve to legitimize this perversion of our legal system, and allow bad actors to interfere in our upcoming election. So I wont be taking part.

Kari Lakes Bribery Scandal Involves a Shady GOP Tech Firm

Though Lakes attorneys requested that the case be wrapped up before the forthcoming primary and general elections, what will happen next, and when, remains murky. Should a judge accept her request, the case will not entirely circumvent discovery, the process where both parties exchange information and evidence, though proceedings will likely be shorter than if a trial were to have occurred.

Richer, who is running for re-election as county recorder, doesnt want the defamation claims to overshadow the fact that she isnt fighting his claim that she lied to Arizonans.

Like, no joke, people are going to go to jail for multiple years, because they believed her and decided to do something very irresponsible, he said. Call me, or someone else in the county, and say, Im going to kill you because you stole the 2022 election. And like, those people are going to have to sit in jail, knowing that it was a lie.

His remarks come one day after state and federal authorities held a news conference in Arizona on the rise in election-related threats across the nation. Officials said the U.S. Justice Departments Election Threats Task Force has brought about 18 cases so far, 13 of which have resulted in convictions. Prison terms handed down to the defendants have ranged from sentences of 18 months to three-and-a-half years.

Seven of the cases, according to authorities, have involved the targeting of Arizona officials. We dont really want to be a leader in this space, U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona Gary Restaino said. But we are.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Kari Lake, the US Senate candidate in Arizona who lost her 2022 bid for governor thanks in part to her refusal to untie herself from far-right conspiracy theories, seems unwilling to defend those same conspiracies under oath.

The former TV news anchor and current Trump superfan is running for the Senate seat being vacated in January by Kyrsten Sinema, the once-Democrat-now-independent first-term senator who announced that she would not stand for re-election after learning that she was in a distant third place in the polls. Ms Lake is set to run against Ruben Gallego, a congressman from Phoenix, who is leading her in polling.

While she previously indicated in an interview with Trump confidant Steve Bannon that she would fight a civil suit brought against her for alleged defamation of an Arizona elections official, Stephen Richer, Ms Lakes team this week filed a motion to move directly to the phase of her trial where damages will be assessed. Ms Lake had repeatedly targeted the Maricopa County Recorder, Mr Richer, and accused him of sabotaging elections in the county in 2022 and deliberately misprinting ballots  both accusations were lies, and even in her defiant statement posted to Twitter, Ms Lake is no longer defending them.

I didnt surrender, I simply cut-to-the-chase. We filed papers demanding a hearing in 30 days for Stephen to prove how my words harmed him. I am ready to go to court now, Stephen. Are you? Arizona law still requires you to prove with witnesses and with evidence, that I caused youin your own wordssubstantial injuries, Stephen, can you?

Nowhere in her lengthy post demanding to know how badly she will potentially be getting hosed in the upcoming portion of her civil trial did Ms Lake defend the idea that the 2022 election was rigged in favour of incumbent Governor Katie Hobbs; nor has she repeated the specific accusations against Mr Richer. But she did accuse her opponents, and Donald Trumps, of seeking their collective political destruction.

President Trump and I are targets of a weaponized legal/court system called Lawfare. Our political opponents will stop at nothing to destroy us.

Mr Richer, meanwhile, responded in his own statement to Twitter: It was a lie. It was always a lie. She did it to get your $25. Or to fire you up. But it was all a lie. There were no 300,000 fraudulent early ballots etc. She defamed me. But she also lied to you.

The former candidate for governor is clearly taking a different path in 2024 even as she continues to project an image on social media of a Trump loyalist. Still a stranger to elected office, Ms Lake is making an active effort to build ties with a Republican establishment she ignored and rejected in 2022 in favour of tying herself entirely to the former president: she has reportedly tried to expand her circle of allies in the states GOP circles, including outreach to a former primary opponent and others in the state tied to the Republican legacy built by former Senator John McCain. Those efforts won her the endorsement of the Senate GOPs campaign ahead of the primary in July, in which she remains the clear frontrunner.

But questions about her past-and-present embrace of election denialism continue to haunt her as she struggles to form those alliances. As last weeks GOP primary for US Senate in Ohio proved, Republican voters see little issue with nominating an untested political novice in nationally-signficant races. Donald Trumps endorsement remains by far the most significant factor for Republicans in many states. But whether those same candidates can win statewide elections against competitive opponents remains unclear: the failure of many of those candidates, including Ms Lake, in 2022 puts that sharply into doubt.

One very public example of Ms Lakes awkward peacemaking efforts played out on Twitter in recent weeks when she attempted to bury the hatchet with Meghan McCain, daughter of the late senator. Ms McCains acidic response decisively rejected any notion of mending fences.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The Kansas City, Missouri Police Department is asking the public for help in locating a missing 19-year-old man not seen in nearly two months.

Police say TMontez Hurt was last seen on February 1, 2024, in the area of 12th Street and Troost Avenue around 11:40 a.m. wearing a royal blue Price Chopper polo and green sweatpants.

Girl, dad hospitalized after hit-and-run crash in Buckner

He was also believed to have been seen walking the same day in the area of 77th Street and Troost Avenue at 1:30 p.m.

Hes described as standing 61 and weighs 160 pounds. He has black and red hair and brown eyes. He also has a tattoo on his right arm.

Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android

According to Griffon News, Hurt is a former Missouri Western State University student.

Anyone who has seen him or has any information is asked to call the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department Missing Persons unit at (816) 234-5043.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Sir Keir Starmer will launch Labour's local elections campaign in the West Midlands with Angela Rayner - Labour Party

Sir Keir Starmer has accused the Prime Minister of trampling on Boris Johnsons levelling up agenda, claiming the plans were killed at birth by Rishi Sunak.

The Labour leader praised the Governments levelling up white paper, saying that much of the analysis in it was good.

But Sir Keir went on to say the intention to invest in local communities never came to fruition and that Mr Sunak was to blame.

Writing for The Times, Sir Keir said: The policy was killed at birth by the then chancellor, Rishi Sunak, who refused to back it; the chaos and corruption of the Tory government under Johnson, and a failure to give regions the levers to make it happen.

The cap in hand approach left places patronised, not empowered. A few million pounds for local projects was not part of a co-ordinated strategy but part of a short-term giveaway  and local people have seen through it.

He said it is understandable that working people may have become disillusioned or cynical because one of the biggest tragedies of the past 14 years is the sense that things cant change.

Boris Johnson drained pride from local communities by treating them as 'a charity case or a political client', Sir Keir Starmer will say - Ammar Awad/Reuters

In a joint op-ed with the deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner, he went on to say that if Labour win the general election, the party will relight the fire of our regions and will kick-start the engines of Britain.

Whitehall has become too centralised, Sir Keir said, as he promised that a Labour Government will do more to empower local leaders.

Sir Keir has previously pledged to introduce Take Back Control legislation if he wins the election, as part of an attempt to win over Brexit voters.

The Labour leader said that if he is elected as prime minister, he will introduce a new bill aimed at devolving power away from Westminster.

In a speech last year, he said he couldnt disagree with the basic case so many Leave voters made to me.

He promised to embrace the Take Back Control message that was used by the Vote Leave campaign, saying he would turn it from a slogan to a solution.

Sir Keir will on Thursday attack Mr Johnsons political hero complex as he launches Labours campaign for the May local elections.

The Labour leader will say the Conservatives have reneged on their flagship promise to spread jobs and wealth across the country.

In his speech in the West Midlands, he will also paint Rishi Sunak as being out of touch with the economic realities facing working families.

Starmer and Rayner in show of unity

Sir Keir will appear alongside Angela Rayner, his deputy, in a show of unity after it emerged police are looking again at the sale of her former council house.

The Labour leader will seek to distance his plan for levelling up  which he is considering rebranding as powering up  from Mr Johnson, arguing that the former prime minister drained pride from local communities by treating them as a charity case or a political client.

People say to me the worst thing you can do in politics is prey on peoples fear. Yet in some ways, preying on their hopes is just as bad, he will say.

Thats what the Tories did with levelling up. It is a good ambition for Britain  but it requires not just a new plan, also a fundamental shift in how we govern.

Sir Keir will pledge to pursue full-fat devolution that will put an end to politics that is done to communities, not with them.

He will say: No more political hero complexes, no more fantasies, no more easy answers that require nobody  politicians or people  to lift a finger. The Tory era of politics as performance art is coming to an end.

The Labour leader will also launch a personal attack on Mr Sunaks character that will fuel the growing sense of animosity between the pair.

Their clashes at Prime Ministers Questions have become increasingly heated in recent months, despite wider calls to tone down political rhetoric.

He will accuse Mr Sunak of having bottled calling a general election as he urges voters to use the local elections on May 2 to send him another message.

He wants one last, drawn-out summer with his beloved helicopter, he will say. The dithering must stop, the date must be set, because Britain wants change  and its time for change with Labour.

Tory bosses are braced for a grim night on May 2 that could see them lose half of their seats and prompt fresh speculation over Mr Sunaks future as leader.

Conservative rebels are planning to seize upon nightmare results to renew their attempts to oust the Prime Minister.

Ms Rayner will also launch a thinly-veiled attack on Mr Johnson by railing against the politics of three-word slogans and empty promises.

She will say that the Tories have lurched from crisis to crisis whilst giving cronies, oligarchs and lobbyists more say than ordinary voters.

But Labours deputy leader is set to face questions of her own at the event, with questions over the sale of her former council house still swirling.

On Wednesday, Greater Manchester Police announced that it is looking at the case again following claims Ms Rayner may not have paid all the tax she owed.

Separately, the Tories launched their own attack on Labour for failing to commit to keeping the Governments offer of 30 hours of free childcare a week.

Bridget Phillipson, the shadow education secretary, has commissioned a review of the expansion, which is set to cost around 4 billion a year. Labours own spending plans were thrown into chaos earlier this month when the Tories poached their policy of scrapping non-dom status.

Gillian Keegan, the Education Secretary, said axing the extra childcare would pull the rug out from under working families and cost them 6,500 a year.

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By settling the securities fraud case that has dogged his entire tenure as Texas' attorney general, Ken Paxton on Tuesday shed a legal and political albatross that has swung from his neck for nine years, and immediately became a champion among his fellow Republicans and politically weaker in the minds of Democrats with two and half years left before the state's top attorney will have to face voters again.

"This is redemption for him politically, at least in the eyes of (his fellow) Republicans," University of Houston political science professor Brandon Rottinghaus told the American-Statesman on Tuesday after attorneys in a Harris County state District Court announced Paxton's pretrial intervention agreement.

The 18-month agreement, which comes with no admission of guilt by Paxton, would sweep away the securities fraud charges filed against him in 2015, if he meets the requirements of the deal, including serving 100 hours of community service, enrolling in 15 hours of legal ethics training and paying $271,000 in total restitution.

"Some members of the (Republican-led) House who supported his impeachment, are with reddened faces today, having to defend themselves against charges that they rushed through the impeachment when now these charges are falling by the wayside," Rottinghaus said.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton

And while his attorney emphatically told reporters that the settlement affirms Paxton's oft-repeated claim that he has committed no wrongdoing, the provision that requires the three-term Republican to pay $271,000 in total restitution to investors tied to the fraud allegations will stand as a tempting target for Democrats in any future election where Paxton's name is on the ballot.

Democrat: Paxton's money payout speaks volumes

A six-figure payout to end a legal case speaks much louder than a defendant's claim of innocence, said veteran Democratic operative Matt Angle.

"By agreeing to the terms of the confidential settlement," Angle said, Paxton "has admitted that he engaged in fraud and failed to register as an agent for security. And of course, he's getting a sweetheart deal. They're treating him like he's a teenager who smoked pot. He does community service, and his record expunged."

Paxton, whose third term ends in 2026, has not publicly indicated whether he plans to run for reelection. But he has expressed at least some interest in launching a primary challenge to U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, whose term also expires in the same election cycle.

More: Texas AG Ken Paxton to pay $271,000 in restitution to resolve securities fraud charges

Angle said that Paxton's pretrial intervention agreement  which came just two months after he said he would no longer contest the allegations made against him in an ongoing civil whistleblower case brought by several former top aides in the attorney general's office who accused him of abusing his office to help a campaign donor  should embolden would-be challengers in whatever race Paxton chooses to make next.

Paxton's legal difficulties made him the most vulnerable Republican holding statewide office in both the 2018 and 2022 election cycles, Angle said. Now, he added, Paxton's profile is much higher and Democratic donors will be much easier to persuade to underwrite a challenger.

"Ken Paxton is now a national villain," Angle said.

Paxton agreement likened to settling a nuisance lawsuit

Texas Republican operative Luke Twombly sees the equation much differently. He likened Paxton's deal to the settlement of a nuisance civil lawsuit in which a lump-sum payment is less expensive than ongoing litigation.

More: Will Texas AG Ken Paxton's securities fraud deal be public? Probably not. Here's why.

More telling, Twombly said, was Paxton beating the 20 impeachment charges, including bribery and abuse office, filed against him last year by the Texas House, which led to a trial in the Senate after which senators, largely along party lines, acquitted him of wrongdoing. Also notable was Paxton's near run-the-table defeat of many House Republican incumbents who voted to impeach him and of the three GOP members of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals who blocked some of the attorney general's legal initiatives.

"He basically can say, 'I put it to bed. I didn't want a liberal witch hunt anymore,'" said Twombly, a former communications director for the Texas Republican Party. "I decided just to end the nonsense."

The GOP base won't hate Paxton; he has its full support, he said.

"Nationally, other Republicans like all these different lawsuits he brings against (Democratic President Joe) Biden. So as long as he keeps doing that, all sins can be forgiven," he said.

Would ordinary Texans get the same kind of deal?

Former Texas Democratic Party Executive Manny Garcia said Paxton's deal will be kept hidden from the public as long as he lives up to its terms, depriving voters of knowing how the attorney general responded to the fraud allegations that have been hanging over his head throughout his tenure as the state's top lawyer.

"Without the case getting underway (in a trial), there wasn't really a showcasing of any of the evidence," Garcia said. "In fact, Texans didn't even see the evidence, or at least some of significant parts of the evidence. His team has been doing a pretty expert job of delaying, dodging, not answering questions."

If Paxton is to ever face a political reckoning over the securities fraud indictments and the settlement that put it to rest, Garcia said, it will be because ordinary Texans understand they would not have had access to the same kind of deal if they were to face similar circumstances.

"The reality is, Texas's top law enforcement official (was able) to settle a case where he was facing 99 years in jail," Garcia said. "And there's something wrong with that system."

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Ken Paxton settled his criminal case. What does it mean politically?
CONCORD, N.H.  In a surprise announcement, longtime Democratic Rep. Annie Kuster of New Hampshire says she wont seek re-election to the House of Representatives this year.

"I always said I was not going to stay in Congress forever  I will not be seeking re-election in 2024," the six-term representative in the key general election battleground state said in a statement released on Wednesday.

Kuster, an attorney and lobbyist with clients in the health care and pharmaceutical industry before winning election to the House in 2012, highlighted that her tenure in Congress "has been many things  rewarding, frustrating, inspiring, and challenging. But, more than anything, it has been an honor."

HEAD HERE FOR THE LATEST FOX NEWS REPORTING ON THE 2024 ELECTIONS

Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H., participates in a news conference in the Capitol in Washington, D.C., on June 15, 2022.

During her years on Capitol Hill, Kuster became known for working across the aisle on key issues, and for her openness in sharing personal experiences, including that she was a survivor of sexual assault during her youth.

"We accomplished a lot. We laid out a path for a bipartisan approach. Im very excited to turn that over to my colleagues, the younger generation, help them realize how they can be effective," Kuster emphasized in a Fox News Digital interview. "They dont have to wait 20 years for seniority. They can really make a difference in six terms."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Kuster represents New Hampshires 2nd Congressional District, which covers the western half of the state from the border with Massachusetts north to the border with Canada. The state capital, Concord, and the state's second-largest city, Nashua, are represented by Kuster.

Its possible several Democrats will step forward in the days and weeks ahead to try and succeed Kuster in a district that leans blue.

"I want to make sure that we have a candidate that can win my seat and I feel confident about that. Ill let them make their own announcement, but I feel very, very good about us keeping the seat," Kuster told Fox News.

Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H., marches in an Independence Day parade in Amherst, New Hampshire, on July 4, 2022.

Kuster, who leads the centrist and pro-business New Democrat Coalition in the House, said that "as I looked at the next eight months and started to think about my own re-election, I really want to put my energy into solidifying and making sure we win back the House."

Kuster emphasized that she'd be "traveling all around the country, raising resources, recruiting candidates, supporting my colleagues, to win 30 seats, not just the one."

Republicans aim to defend their razor-thin House majority in November's elections.

The GOP currently holds a 218-213 majority in the House of Representatives.

Kuster also highlighted that "the other piece of it, Ive been on the phone this morning with the White House and the presidential campaign and hitting the trail for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, making sure we win back the White House."

Her announcement ignited surprised reactions across the political sphere and the media on Wednesday morning on social media.

"Wow. I think Kuster might be the last member still in office who I helped get elected when I worked at the DCCC in 2012," Josh Schwerin, a longtime Democratic political operative, posted on X.

"Wow!" Michael LaRosa, a former spokesman for first lady Jill Biden, posted on X.

Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., left, and Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H., right, are joined by Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., at a rally in Nashua, New Hampshire, on Nov. 6, 2022.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., praised Kuster as a "friend of mine" and said she "has been a tremendous source of strength to me and countless others in the House Democratic Caucus family."

"She will be sorely missed in the next Congress. I wish her and her family the best in this new chapter," he added.

Kuster said in her statement, "I will continue serving the people of New Hampshire until the end of my term in January 2025. In the months ahead, I will use my time to help Congress build on the progress we have made and finish the job for the American people."

And she told Fox News, "I want to get out on the slopes of New Hampshire and live my life and being with children and one day grandchildren. I think I can do a lot for the country without being in elected office myself."

Get the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews and more at our Fox News Digital election hub .

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Original article source: Key battleground state Dem announcement stuns political world: 'Big surprise'
Gov. Kim Reynolds has signed a far-reaching education law restructuring funding for the state's Area Education Agencies, raising starting teacher pay to $50,000 and giving Iowa schools a 2.5% funding increase for the coming year.

Reynolds, a Republican, signed the education package in a ceremony Wednesday afternoon in the governor's office in the Iowa State Capitol building in Des Moines.

The law, House File 2612, contains the top education priorities Reynolds laid out in her Condition of the State address in January.

"House File 2612 will improve special education for students with disabilities and raise salaries for new and experienced teachers  two foundational pillars of a world-class education system, which is exactly what we strive to provide for every student in our state," Reynolds said.

Gov. Kim Reynolds signs House File 2612, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at her office in the Iowa State Capitol.

It gives school districts control over pools of state funding that now go to the AEAs for general education and media services, allowing them to spend the money on private vendors or continue working with the AEAs under a "fee for service" model.

The AEAs  currently the sole provider of special education services  will continue receiving 90% of the state funding that they currently receive for special education, while school districts will control the remaining 10%.

The bill has been highly controversial.

Education advocates organized protests at the Capitol and the governor's mansion in opposition to the bill. Parents of students with disabilities showed up at legislative hearings, saying they believe the legislation would harm the services that their children receive. And Democrats vowed to make the legislation a campaign issue in this fall's elections.

More: Iowa lawmakers pass AEA bill, move to increase teacher pay, handing win to Gov. Reynolds

House Minority Leader Jennifer Konfrst, D-Windsor Heights, told reporters that Reynolds' celebration of the bill shows she's "completely out of touch" with Iowans.

"When you look at the celebration she's having, I want you to think about the families who have so much uncertainty now as they're wondering what will happen to the services in their communities, what will happen to their kids who are getting AEA services," she said. "There are so many questions."

Some superintendents have argued for giving school districts more control over the money so they can better tailor services to their students' needs.

How will special education funding change under the AEA law?

The legislation makes several changes to how the AEAs are funded and whether school districts must continue using the agencies for certain services.

The AEAs are funded through a combination of state, federal and local property tax dollars. They offer special education services to school districts as well as media services and general education services.

The law does not make any changes to funding for special education in the 2024-25 school year. In the 2025-26 school year and beyond, districts will receive the state special education funding that goes to the AEAs, but they would be required to send 90% of that money to the AEAs, while keeping the remaining 10%.

The AEAs received about $156 million in special education funding from the state during the current fiscal year, according to an analysis of the bill by the nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency.

Federal special education funding will continue to go to the AEAs.

Legislators clap after Gov. Kim Reynolds signed House File 2612, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at her office in the Iowa State Capitol.

How will funding for other AEA services change under the law?

The law also gradually gives school districts control over all the state money for media services and general education services the AEAs now receive.

In the 2024-25 school year, school districts will receive 60% of the media and general education services funding and AEAs will receive 40%. Schools can choose whether to continue contracting with the AEAs for those services under a "fee for service" model, or use a private provider.

Beginning the following year, school districts will receive all the state funding for media and general education services and can choose whether to use the AEAs.

The AEAs currently receive about $35.7 million for general education services and $32.3 million for media services, according to the bill analysis.

More: Which Iowa lawmakers voted to overhaul AEAs, raise teacher pay? Here's the rundown:

The law creates a new special education division in the Iowa Department of Education

The law authorizes the Department of Education to create a Division of Special Education with 13 new staff members in Des Moines and another 40 who would be based within AEAs around the state.

The law also creates a task force to study and make recommendations on the AEA system. The group must submit a report with its findings to the Iowa Legislature by Dec. 31.

McKenzie Snow, Gov. Kim Reynolds' nominee to lead Iowa's education department, watches as Gov. Reynolds signs House File 2612, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at her office in the Iowa State Capitol.

The law caps how much AEA administrators can be paid

Pay for AEA administrators will not be allowed to exceed 125% of the average salary of the superintendents within their AEA region.

A Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll conducted in late February found a majority of Iowans (56%) have a favorable view of the AEAs, while 24% view them unfavorably and 20% are not sure.

How does the bill increase pay for teachers, paraeducators?

The legislation raises minimum pay for beginning teachers to $47,500 in the coming school year and to $50,000 the following year, up from $33,500 under current law.

It sets a minimum salary of $60,000 for teachers with at least 12 years of experience in the coming school year, before raising that minimum to $62,000 the next year.

And the law has $22 million for schools to use to raise experienced teacher pay and another $14 million to increase pay for non-salaried school staff, like paraeducators.

"Iowa currently ranks in the bottom half of states for starting teacher pay, and with this increase we soar to the top five in the nation," Reynolds said. "But even better than our ranking is the message it sends to current and prospective teachers: Iowa values education and those who dedicate their careers to students, and their pay should absolutely reflect it."

The Iowa Poll found 76% of Iowans favor raising minimum teacher pay to $50,000 per year, while 22% oppose an increase and 2% are not sure.

How much funding do Iowa K-12 schools receive under the law?

The law also increases state per-pupil aid to schools by 2.5%, an increase of $191 per pupil, bringing total state funding for public K-12 schools to $3.8 billion.

The state also is expected to spend $179.2 million in the upcoming year on private school education savings accounts.

What are Iowa politicians saying about the AEA legislation?

Reynolds said she's traveled around the state to meet with superintendents and other representatives of about 150 school districts on the bill, including supporters and opponents.

"Everyone was willing to come to the table with their questions, their concerns and their ideas. And I'm proud to say that actually much of their feedback is reflected in the final bill," she said. "So I want to thank everyone who took the time to meet with me. That input made a difference and I believe that your students will be better served because of your involvement in the process."

Rep. Skyler Wheeler speaks before Gov. Kim Reynolds signs House File 2612, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at her office in the Iowa State Capitol.

Rep. Skyler Wheeler, R-Hull, the House Education Committee chair, said at Wednesday's bill signing that Republicans "brought everybody to the table" to discuss the bill.

"We held numerous meetings with everyone and worked with all sides to come to an agreement that is a win for education in our state," he said.

Senate Minority Leader Pam Jochum, D-Dubuque, released a statement thanking the Iowans who spoke out against the bill, saying Reynolds failed to listen to their concerns.

"Gov. Reynolds demanded an attack on Iowas Area Education Agencies that no one asked for and no one wanted. She bullied it through the Republican-led legislature, and today she signed it into law," Jochum said. "Every step of the way, Iowans told her to stop, to slow down, to engage stakeholders and collaborate on real improvements to special education in Iowa. She never listened, and now parents and children will face the consequences."

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: What to know about the AEA, teacher pay bill Kim Reynolds just signed
Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) said the special election victory in Alabama, where a Democratic candidate secured a state House seat by championing reproductive rights, shows people value their freedoms in the south.

Marilyn Lands secured the win for the Alabama state House District 10 seat in the Tuesday election, drawing significant attention to reproductive rights just one month after clinics providing in vitro fertilization (IVF) paused services following a state Supreme Court ruling that categorized frozen embryos as children.

Race after race after race has shown that no matter the party affiliation, voters are siding with the Democratic Party and Joe Bidens support for freedom. They do not want to go back to the chaos, Klobuchar told MSNBC contributor Sam Stein during a Wednesday appearance on Morning Joe.

When Stein asked Klobuchar if there were plans for the Democratic party to capitalize more aggressively on the issue of protecting IVF and abortion rights, she told him that she didnt see it as capitalizing on the issue, and that the voters were bringing it to us.

This is happening on its own, without anyone capitalizing on it. I will say, the Alabama outcome in that state legislative race gives support for why the president, vice president are heading down to the South on various issues, everything from work done on the economy and the like. But a lot of this is because people value their freedoms in the South, in the midwest, anywhere in the country, Klobuchar said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Various artists of the Como ser Fotografa platform, portrayed at the Ateneo de Madrid cultural institution, on March 5. From left, seated on the floor, Lurdes R. Basoli and Elisa Miralles. Behind, seated, Elena de la Rua, Rosa Munoz (on the sofa), Soledad Cordoba and Toya Legido. In the third row, Laura Martinez Lombardia, Maria Platero, Rosell Meseguer, Gloria Oyarzabal and Estela de Castro. Above, Linarejos Moreno, Marta Soul and Paula Anta.

Based on the famous Magnum Photos agency, albeit with much less alcohol and the endless poker games, the Como ser Fotografa (How to be a Photographer  CSF) platform unites 29 artists (20 Spanish and 9 Latin American) who aspire to showcase their work, so that the role of women in artistic creation can be recognized, while at the same time showing that we are professionals, says Marta Soul, the groups spokesperson, at the Ateneo de Madrid cultural institution. In a room belonging to this institution, which includes a Photography section, EL PAIS gathered 14 of them for a group picture and to discuss their projects.

Soul (Madrid, 51 years old), who lives in England, is the driving force behind this alliance, which was formed in 2020. I was receiving more and more news of collectives of female photographers from European countries and I thought that it could also happen in Spain, so I thought about the ones I admired and made an emotional selection. We started with 20. Also, the language issue was important, so that we could contact artists from Latin American countries, she explains.

Under the concept of photography as an artistic practice, she stresses, the first task was to set up a website, which was carried out by Elena de la Rua (Madrid, 46 years old), who is also in charge of designing the groups collective exhibitions. Then came the promotion, through different mediums, such as online talks for several months for PHotoEspana. Currently, a panoramic view of the photography of these artists (in addition to the two photo galleries in this article) can be seen at the Museo del Greco, in Toledo, in the exhibition entitled Una Vision Propia, until May 26th. Also, on their website there are short documentaries about some of their projects for a better understanding of their work.

Sofia Moro is a documentary photographer specializing in portraits. A contributor to El Pais Semanal, she is a teacher and has exhibited her work in several countries. Sofia Moro

De la Rua, who has a degree in Fine Arts, focuses on photography as the basis of her work, but painting and sculpture are also part of it: In my images, I convey how we relate to the outside world through our imagination or emotions. In her latest project, entitled El paraiso come carne (Paradise Eats Meat), she photographs small dead animals and then paints over the image. Using the platform, she is preparing a still life workshop for adolescent girls in Nigeria.

Rosa Munoz (Madrid, 61 years old) hails from a previous generation. She boasts a long career that includes solo exhibitions at the Canal de Isabel II (Madrid) or the Centro Andaluz de la Fotografia (Almeria), and her images appear at the Pompidou Center (Paris) and the Centro de Arte de Alcobendas (Madrid). Her style involves scenic, constructed photography, in which there is always a reflection on the passage of time, she says. She has been collaborating for decades in the media (including El Pais Semanal, El Mundos Magazine, Matador), she is immersed in a project on abandoned places that she manages and which, in some way, she breathes a second life into. This work alternates with video projections, such as the one she recently held for three nights on the facade of the Senate in Madrid.

Marta Soul is the artist who devised the platform Como ser fotografa. Her work focuses on identity roles. Marta Soul 'Stitched Panorama', by Rosa Munoz, a visual artist whose work is defined by "interventions in space within the context of reality". Rosa Munoz Portraiture is the specialty of documentary photographer Sofia Moro. Sofia Moro The work of visual artist Paula Anta has been exhibited in numerous Spanish art centers. Paula Anta Fabiola Cedillo is Ecuadorian and has worked as a photojournalist for Reuters while also working on her personal projects. Fabiola Cedillo Clara de Tezanos is a Guatemalan artist and cultural manager. CLARA DE TEZANOS Eunice Adorno is a photographer, born in Mexico City in 1982. Eunice Adorno Photograph by Argentine Pilar Giambastiani Tavelli. Pilar Giambastiani Tavelli Photograph by the Catalan artist and educator Tanit Plana. TANIT PLANA In 2010, Lurdes R. Basoli won the Inge Morath Award, given by the Magnum agency to women photographers under 30 years of age. LURDES R. BASOLI Gloria Oyarzabal diversifies her professional activity between filmmaking, teaching and photography. Gloria Oyarzabal Photographer and graphic editor, Laura Martinez Lombardia co-directs an artistic projects production studio. LAURA MARTINEZ LOMBARDIA Brazilian Angelica Dass combines photography with sociological research and human rights activism. ANGELICA DASS Maria Platero is another member of Como ser fotografa who alternates her artistic production with teaching. Maria Platero Photograph by Mariela Sancari from Buenos Aires. Mariela Sancari

Over time, we have seen how our platform has become more and more interesting, and now there are artists who want to join, and they are good, but not very well-known, adds Munoz at Ateneo de Madrid, which is in the process of including illustrious female Ateneo members in its portrait gallery.

To join CSF, candidates must be nominated by a member of the group. Those who make the final decisions are external curators, chosen by me, who review their work, explains Soul, who also does staged photography but using characters. It is as if film stills were extracted, with a narrative in which these people express their emotions, she explains about her work, displaying a fondness for the couples relationship.

Soul also says that a common quality of all CSF members is that they are feminists: Many times photographers have told us: You only take photos of your body. This platform demonstrates that this is not the case. Of course, were a heterogeneous group, not a political movement, and were not all interested in the same issues.

Toya Legido is a researcher and professor at the Faculty of Fine Arts of the Complutense University of Madrid. Toya Legido Rosell Meseguer is a visual artist and PhD in Fine Arts, this image belongs to her work 'Bateria de cenizas', from which a selection of images has been recently published in 'El Pais Semanal'. Rosell Meseguer An image by artist Soledad Cordoba, PhD in Fine Arts from the Complutense University of Madrid. Soledad Cordoba Image of the project 'El Paraiso come carne', by Elena de la Rua, graduate in Fine Arts. ELENA DE LA RUA Image by Amparo Garrido, visual artist and filmmaker who has had solo and group exhibitions over the past 25 years. Amparo Garrido Photograph by Elisa Miralles, who is the coordinator of the online course offered by the platform for female photographers. Elisa Miralles Estela de Castro is, in addition to being a photographer, a teacher. Her work has been exhibited in numerous art centers. In 2019 she took the official portraits of King Felipe and Queen Letizia. Estela de Castro An image by photographer and graphic designer Ingrid Weyland. Ingrid Weyland Alejandra Carles-Tolra is a visual artist, photographer and educator. ALEJANDRA CARLES-TOLRA Linarejos Moreno is an artist, researcher and teacher at the Complutense University of Madrid. LINAREJOS MORENO Solange Adum is a Peruvian photographer who teaches in Lima. SOLANGE ADUM Lujan Agusti is another Latin American on the Como ser fotografa platform. She lives in Tierra del Fuego (Argentina). LUJAN AGUSTI Lucia Morate is a visual artist, teacher and cultural mediator. LUCIA MORATE Carmela Garcia is an artist who uses not only photography, but also video and installation in her work. CARMELA GARCIA

Paula Anta (Madrid, 47 years old) elaborates on this explanation: The platform has allowed me to assert myself in the fight in a photographic world that is so masculine. We had to fight to be taken seriously about what we were doing. Thanks to the contacts and movement provided by CSF, Anta has enjoyed a stay in Cote dIvoire, which will culminate in an exhibition on a landfill site in Abidjan that the Ivorian government is transforming into a park. I have photographed this transformation, which can be seen at Casa Africa, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Nature is very much a part of her work. I also work on landscape interventions and my latest projects have a more ecological character because I work in an increasingly damaged environment.

Fabiola Cedillo is one of the Latin Americans in the group. Born in Cuenca (Ecuador), she is 36 years old and has collaborated with Reuters. She is passing through Madrid before leaving for Dubai to work on a project about consumerism in the emirate. She says her focus is on documentary photography: Im interested in what happens to people who do not comply with social or moral rules, who move in this periphery.

Cedillo points out that while European female photographers are more influenced by classical art in terms of composition or how to use light, Latin American women are influenced by the visual imaginary that comes from the United States. When we started to do photography, we tried to replicate what they were doing, and she adds that in Latin America, experimental photography is not as widespread as it is in Europe.

The Ecuadorian photographer Fabiola Cedillo, at the Reina Sofia Museum, on Friday, March 15. Alvaro Garcia

Among the activities carried out by this group of female photographers is an annual online course, coordinated by Elisa Miralles. It began in November and will finish in June, with a virtual exhibition of works by the 10 students. They have to develop a project and the idea is to encourage them in their work and help them to find their way, she explains. Different disciplines are taught, such as photobooks, the relationship with galleries and portrait photography. Miralles graduated as a chemical engineer and started out in photography in 2007. Her work has focused on issues related to gender and stereotypes. Her projects include Recuerdos sin memoria, in which she portrays the day-to-day life of her grandmother, who suffers from Alzheimers disease.

CSFs website also provides the option of buying works from the artists, and the latest commitment, says Soul, is a virtual gallery, a space for exhibitions where the user can browse and which is open to artists outside the group. The group also strives to take its works to different festivals and art fairs.

Stitched Panorama, photography by the artist Rosa Munoz, who has collaborated in numerous magazines, including El Pais Semanal. Rosa Munoz

As for the future, Soul says she would like the platform to establish a direction in Spanish photography and to help its members gain an international presence. And financial autonomy, which is essential, adds Anta. We need to make money!

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All of my self-esteem, all of my validation, all of my happiness and joy was coming from my work, the playwright James Graham recently admitted on an episode of Desert Island Discs. I didnt allow myself to believe there was space for anything else.

Graham, the 41-year-old writer of plays including Dear England, Ink and Labour Of Love, explained that he would often isolate from friends, lie to loved ones and neglect his physical health in order to work. He was, he says, a workaholic: You hear that phrase [workaholic] a lot [as though] it is a habit that you have, not an actual sickness, he told the presenter Lauren Lavern. But it is  no way different really from [addictions to] drink or drugs or sex or anything else  its a pattern of behaviour that is slowly sort of killing you.

Graham overcame his problem by attending Workaholics Anonymous, a fellowship patterned on the same 12-step recovery process as Alcoholics Anonymous. They hold in-person and online meetings for people all over the UK.

James Graham recently revealed he suffers from workaholism - Andrew Fox

Many of us wear the term workaholic like a badge of honour, believing that it indicates physical, emotional and moral strength. Historical icons like Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher were celebrated for their superhuman work ethic. And todays pre-eminent tech-bro success stories and social media influencers  with their 5am starts and ice bath fixations  further cement the idea of compulsive self-improvement as a positive design for life.

Workaholism is not included as a clinical condition in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Of Mental Disorders (DSM). However, studies have shown that there is a clear overlap between diseases such as obsessive compulsive disorder and the constant compulsion to work or be productive. And recent research suggests that more than half of UK adults feel unable to switch off from work.

Overworking can become an addiction if it starts to impact negatively upon other areas of your life, says Dr Niall Campell, a consultant psychiatrist at The Priory hospital and addiction centre in London. Its not necessarily the amount of hours you are working but the extent to which youre allowing it to harm your relationships, your ability to relax or experience joy in other areas of life.

So how do you know if you are a work addict who might be endangering your health, rather than just a studious worker with a healthy amount of ambition? Hard work is the only addiction that society encourages and applauds, says Malissa Clark, an associate professor at the University Of Georgia and the author of Never Not Working: Why The Always On Culture Is Bad For Business And How To Fix It.

Diagnosing a workaholic is very difficult because people so rarely see themselves as having a problem. Clark interviewed numerous members of Workaholics Anonymous for the book and found most of them had been driven by crisis to confront their problem. Almost everyone had suffered some sort of physical breakdown before seeking treatment, she says.

I have been there myself. In my 20s, working long hours as a magazine journalist and drinking with just as much gusto on a daily basis, I collapsed in the street, suffered a seizure and was hospitalised. The doctors said I was suffering from exhaustion and told me to rest. I ignored them. A few years later, while working as a television news reporter, I suffered another collapse followed by multiple seizures after 11 consecutive days of 12-hour shifts. I went to A&E, underwent more tests and was once again advised to work less and rest more. Once again, I ignored them. Driven by ambition, insecurity and a sense of financial precariousness, I worked and worked and worked  constantly on the run from lurking depression and anxiety.

Sam Delaney in his home office - Andrew Crowley for The Telegraph

When I turned 40, I gave up drink and drugs but, if anything, my approach to work became even more obsessive. I believed that sobriety had given me the extra energy to achieve even more and said yes to every opportunity that came my way. Alongside writing for newspapers and running my own production company, I was presenting a daily three-hour show on Talk Radio. I believed that sobriety had blessed me with superhuman powers that enabled me to fit more into each day than the average person. The fact that I held down all of these exciting jobs made me feel as if I was doing everything right. My therapist  who had helped me get sober  suggested that I might need more balance in my life. She even floated the idea of me stepping away from some of the work. I scoffed at the idea.

But by 2018, I was burnt out and constantly sick: from unshiftable colds, to agonising back pain to anxiety-driven sleeplessness, my body was sending me non-stop warning signs. Eventually, I was forced to step back and reassess my life. For the past six years, I have built a new way of working, mostly from home, with more free time to relax with my family. It took a few decades but I have eventually realised that I can make a living without having to completely burn myself out.

Had physical and mental illness not forced my hand, I might have carried on at the same relentless pace for years. Who knows what the consequences might have been? My wife says I was often zombie-like at home, physically present but too strung out to engage properly. Weekends were often spent slumped in front of the telly and I slept through numerous family holidays.

It now seems clear to me that my work addictions were driven by the exact same forces that had driven my drink problems. I was uncomfortable with my own feelings, constantly anxious about the future and struggled with various insecurities rooted in my childhood. Just as drink and drugs had once helped numb these feelings out, so work helped provide a distraction.

The compulsive desire to work often comes from a bad place of worry and the need for recognition, says Thomas Curran, an associate professor of psychology at LSE and the author of The Perfection Trap: The Power Of Good Enough In A World That Always Wants More. In the mind of a perfectionist, working weekends and evenings will give them recognition and a sense of peace. But it will only ever be temporary because they soon step back onto the train of constant work. Joy is hard to find for perfectionists and workaholics because they are always looking forward to the next goal or ambition. They never stop to savour things.

In my early 40s, not only was I failing to enjoy any of my successes, I eventually began to struggle to perform at work due to a lack of energy and focus. Ironically, my addiction to work was impairing my ability to work. Its completely stupid to think that more effort equals better output, adds Curran.

Like any addiction, workaholism isnt rational. Even if we know that working non-stop isnt producing results, it can still provide addicts with a much needed sense of validation. The key is to stop wrapping up work with your sense of identity, says Clark. I work hard but I dont think my work defines me. I make sure I am putting equal effort into my social life, my family and my hobbies. And I remember that my value as a person is about more than what I do for a living.

Of course, many people feel as if they have no choice but to throw themselves into work in order to financially survive. Again, Clark says this requires a perspective shift: You need to understand that beyond a certain point money is not going to solve all of your problems. I grew up poor and fear of scarcity drove my approach to work. But earning enough to survive shouldnt mean you need to sacrifice every other aspect of your life, especially your health. She recommends the book Money Zen: The Secret To Finding Your Enough by Manisha Thakor as a useful tool in resetting your financial perspective.

Often, it is a workaholics spouse or partner who identifies the problem. Many of the work addicts I spoke with were pushed to seek help by their wife or husband, who gave them an ultimatum says Clark. The spouses themselves often said that being married to a workaholic felt like being a single parent. Their partner wasnt ever there  if not physically, then emotionally  because work came first.

So what should someone do if their partner wont face up to their own work issues? Communication is key, says Clark. If they wont accept they have a problem, you need to make them understand how their working habits are impacting you and the rest of the family.

Of course, ambition is healthy and hard work can play a positive role in our mental health. As always, balance is crucial. Its perfectly normal to expect our careers to have ups and downs with periods of high intensity, says Clark. But its simply not sustainable to try and work at that level all the time. Society will always encourage you to overwork, which makes it hard for you to see you have a problem. But listen to your friends and family. If they tell you theres a problem, there probably is one.

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This year, the personal-finance website WalletHub released a report on the best cities for St. Patrick's Day celebrations. The Scruffy City secured the No. 13th spot out of 200 cities, in no small part due to our unique parade.

This year was hands down the best, said Christy Watkins, co-founder of the Knox St. Patrick's Parade. She, Josh Turbyville and Chandle Turbyville started the now beloved parade back in 2017.

We were at Clancys, having a pint, and Josh said You know, we used to have a parade in the '80s, and we said, we should bring it back! Little did we know it would be so much work, Watkins explained.

When the idea struck them, it had been 31 years since Knoxville was host to a St. Patricks Day parade, with the last one occurring in 1986. John and Pat McLaughlin started the St. Patrick's Day parade in the 1980s, in a similar fashion to the modern incarnation. After also discussing the topic at a bar, John set out a coin jar, which funded the first parade in 1981. Unfortunately, after Johns death, momentum to continue the parade fizzled out.

The Knoxville St. Patrick's Day parade March 16 was a huge hit, donating its proceeds to Catholic Charities of East Tennessee.

The two parades are intimately connected, however.

Art Clancy Jr. honored us by being the grand marshal at the very first parade in 2017, Watkins said. Art Clancy Sr. was the first grand marshal of the parade in 1980. We honored Art Clancy Jr. this year since he had recentlypassed away. We also close with the McLaughlin family, who founded the parade.

After having to cancel in 2020 and 2021 for COVID-19, and in 2022 for weather, the parade was back in full force this year with record attendance and participation. The festivities included more than 50 floats sponsored by local Irish families and businesses decked out in green.

Also in attendance was state Rep. Gloria Johnson, promoting her unusual dual campaigns for the Tennessee House and the U.S. Senate.

Besides promoting local businesses and generating foot traffic, the Knox St. Patrick's Parade also donates its proceeds to CCETN (Catholic Charities of East Tennessee). Watkins rightly boasted, We have raised over $100,000 for CCETN since we started the parade back in 2017.

On a perfect day for it, crowds line Gay Street for the recent St. Patrick's Day parade.

They have programs for anybody of any age, from embryo to elderly, regardless of race, orientation or religion.

The parades website sums up the mood of the day quite well:

Several of Knoxvilles early founders were Irish immigrants or of Scots-Irish descent, and large numbers of Irish began arriving after the Great Famine of the 1840s. They built forts, railroads, churches, and saloons. They were mayors, aldermen, firemen, and police. Knoxville owes a lot to its Irish heritage. Its time we celebrate that again. Erin go Bragh!"

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Knoxville St. Patrick's parade makes WalletHub's top 20 list
The Kremlin has embraced a challenge in the wake of last weeks deadly terror attack in Moscow: pinning the blame on its enemies.

Russian officials have stepped up their efforts to point the finger at Ukraine and the West  a task made more difficult by a lack of publicly presented evidence, denials by Kyiv matched by claims of responsibility by the Islamic State terrorist group, and contradictions in the narrative put forth by the Kremlins hawks.

Although President Vladimir Putin offered early hints of the claim that Ukraine was in some way involved in the concert hall attack, the Russian leader and his propaganda machine have doubled down on those claims in recent days. The head of the countrys Federal Security Service (FSB) even suggested Tuesday that it was not just Kyiv but the United States and Britain that were behind the attack, which has now claimed at least 140 lives.

Ukraine and its allies have dismissed the accusations, while the U.S. has said ISIS was solely responsible for the attack.

Four Tajik nationals charged in the attack appeared severely beaten in a Moscow court Sunday, raising questions about how reliable any testimony they give will be. On Monday, Putin admitted for the first time that the attack had been carried out by radical Islamists, while again suggesting that Ukraine was involved.

Vladimir Putin In Moscow (Valery Sharifulin / AFP - Getty Images)

FSB chief Alexander Bortnikov took it further Tuesday and said that primary data received from the suspects so far points to a Ukrainian trace because the Islamists alone were unable to prepare such an act. Bortnikov also accused Kyiv of training militants in the Middle East.

His words were echoed by another high-ranking official in Putins entourage Tuesday: the secretary of Russias National Security Council, Nikolai Patrushev. Of course, Ukraine, Patrushev said, answering a question from a journalist about whether ISIS or Kyiv was to blame for the attack.

But the Kremlin accusations, while increasingly definitive, have lacked any evidence, details or clarity.

Overall, theres an odd disconnect. The official line, that Ukrainians recruited jihadists, is being parroted, but often with little conviction, Mark Galeotti, head of the consultancy Mayak Intelligence and an honorary professor at University College London, wrote on X. Despite talk of consequences, nothing is really emerging, leaving the authorities looking rather weak.

Russian propaganda has dismissed the ISIS claim of responsibility since the night of the attack, when observers feared that the Kremlin might seek to exploit the situation by blaming its enemies in Ukraine and the West.

That has been borne out in the days since.

On Wednesday, the pro-Kremlin newspaper Argumenty i Fakty splashed across its front page the faces of President Joe Biden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the leaders of Germany, France and the United Kingdom against the burning Crocus concert hall in the background, with a tagline that read: We know the masterminds of the terrorist attack in Crocus.  Let them tell each other the nonsense about ISIS.

When asked why Zelenskyy, who is Jewish, would be in league with Islamist extremists, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov suggested it was not so far-fetched. The Ukrainian leader is a peculiar Jewish person who sympathizes with Nazis, Peskov said Tuesday, resorting to the Kremlins baseless trope about Zelenskyy and his government.

Russias Investigative Committee also said Wednesday that it would look into an appeal by several lawmakers to investigate how the U.S. and other Western countries are allegedly organizing, financing and carrying out terror acts against Russia.

Pushing that narrative could serve several purposes.

It detracts from any meaningful discussion about the failure of Russias own security services, which have been busy cracking down on domestic dissent and seemingly missed an attack that was clearly well planned and that the U.S. had warned about weeks in advance.

At least 139 people were killed when gunmen in camouflage stormed Crocus City Hall, shooting spectators before setting the building on fire in the most fatal attack in Europe to have been claimed by Islamic State jihadists. (Natalia Kolesnikova / AFP via Getty Images)

It could also be exploited by the Kremlin to ramp up its war in Ukraine, with analysts long expecting authorities to soften the ground for new restrictions on personal freedoms and even a second wave of mobilization to bolster Russias military ranks.

The Kremlins story centers on the attack suspects having been detained in the Bryansk border region. Putin alleged that they were trying to flee toward Ukraine, which he said had prepared a window for them to cross the border. Bortnikov went further and said Tuesday that Kyiv wanted to welcome them as heroes on the other side.

But one of Putins closest allies appeared to inadvertently undermine this narrative.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko boasted Tuesday that the suspects had turned toward the Ukrainian border because they understood that it was impossible to enter Belarus. The country went on high alert shortly after the terror attack in Moscow, Lukashenko said, and checkpoints were set up on roads, including those with Russia that the suspects saw, choosing to go to Ukraine instead.

A bill in Belarus that would outlaw the promotion of homosexuality and other behavior is set to land on lawmakers' desks amid an unwavering crackdown on dissent initiated by authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko in 2020. (Pavel Bednyakov / AP)

The version about Ukraine did not look very convincing from the very beginning, and after yesterdays revelations from Lukashenko, only frankly narrow-minded or completely fearful people can believe in it, Abbas Gallyamov, a Russian political analyst and former Putin speechwriter, wrote on Telegram.

Pushing on with this narrative, Putin risks further alienating whatever high-quality audience he has left, Gallyamov said, leaving him reliant on people who blindly believe his every word.

Bortnikovs suggestion of U.S. and U.K. involvement in the attack also does not serve the Kremlin, he said, as such a wide range of participants would only add to the apparent failures of Russian intelligence services. Almost half the world is involved in the conspiracy, Gallyamov added, and they missed everything.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Kris Mayes in Santa Cruz County in March 2024. Photo by Paul Ingram | Tucsonsentinel.com

Despite an Arizona state law, the city of Tucson can move ahead with a planned July vote on a sales tax increase, Attorney General Kris Mayes said.

In February, the City Council set a summer vote on a possible sales tax  but Arizona law requires such elections go before voters only on November ballots.

Arizona Sen. Rosanna Gabaldon then asked Mayes if Tucson can legally go ahead with a scheduled sales tax election, despite the apparent conflict with state law.

Mayes made her determination this week, finding that Tucson, as a charter city, can set the dates of its own elections.

The timing of Tucsons election to amend the Charter and authorize a transaction privilege tax is a matter of purely municipal concern and the city is not preempted from holding such an election on a different date from that prescribed in state law, she said in a legal opinion.

The Council unanimously voted to hold the election  without yet determining the rate of a potential increase or what the funds would be dedicated to  as jockeying over an extension of the Regional Transportation Authority continues. The Council called the vote for August 6, but the state Legislature then moved the date of the summer elections to July 30.

The move is a gambit to apply pressure to the other members of the RTA (Pima County, area Native tribes and incorporated towns), with Tucson potentially going its own way if the all-Democratic Council doesnt believe city residents are getting a fair share of the taxes that would be raised under a 20-year RTA Next plan.

I think the law in Arizona is quite clear that the statute limiting this type of election to the statewide general election date violates the Arizona Constitution and the authority of charter cities to conduct local elections, City Attorney Mike Rankin told the Sentinel last month.

Mayes concurred with the citys stance.

Under Arizona law, when action under a citys charter conflicts with state law, the municipal action prevails if it is on a matter of purely municipal concern. The timing of Tucsons special election to amend its Charter is a matter of purely municipal concern, even though the proposed amendment concerns a transaction privilege tax, she wrote.

Tuesday, Rankin said, I appreciate the attorney generals careful and thorough review of the long history of case law relating to this issue, most of it involving Tucson.

State law vs. Tucson Charter

Arizona Revised Statute 16-204 requires that any city election held to authorize a transaction privilege tax (the formal term for a sales tax) must be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November.

Members of the Legislature are allowed to ask the attorney general if a state law is being violated. Gabaldon requested an expedited opinion on the matter.

While most such requests are prompted by lawmakers attempting to halt actions they believe violate the law, the LD 21 Democrats Feb. 23 letter to Mayes is couched in language that favors Tucsons move. Gabaldons district stretches from Douglas and Nogales, through Sahuarita and into parts of Tucsons South Side.

I do not make this request for an expedited opinion lightly, but time is of the absolute essence. If Tucsons authority to control the method and manner of its own elections does not extend to a TPT election on a state consolidated election date of the citys choice, then Tucsons officials must have the opportunity to correct this action in order to meet the deadlines that would apply to a November 2024 timeframe. I would respectfully ask that an opinion be issued by your office no later than 30 days from the date of this request, the state senator wrote.

The Tucson City Charter (essentially the citys constitution) doesnt specify a limit on dates when the Council can call for a sales tax election.

Tucson has won a number of election court cases, with judges finding that the Charters provisions for holding elections in odd-numbered years and setting up the citys system of nominating Council members by ward and electing them citywide are valid and override state laws that attempted to limit them.

From the earliest days of Arizona statehood, state law has paid special solicitude to cities. That solicitude is reflected in the home rule charter provision, found in the Arizona Constitution, the attorney general wrote.

While Mayes agreed that the city has the authority to call for a summer sales tax election, right-wing opponents of Tucsons Democratic leadership may still file a suit over the matter.

City questions RTA Next

Tucson City Manager Mike Ortega  set to leave his position this summer  has echoed his elected bosses in exploring a city-only alternate path to transportation improvements.

In a memo to Mayor Regina Romero and the six members of the Council sent just days after the election vote, he wrote that I may not be able to in good conscience recommend the city of Tucson continue to participate in RTA Next.

City officials want a bigger share of the taxes paid into the regional authority, pointing out that a majority of the sales taxes collected come from transactions inside the city limits  and that the city has most of the voters who would be necessary to approve a renewed multi-decade regional plan.

RTA Executive Director Farhad Moghimi has responded by noting that about 73 percent of the categorical projects under the 2006 plan have been within the city, and that under the current draft plan for RTA Next, 53 percent of the projects would go to Tucson. The city has 52 percent of the countys population, he said.

The RTA is a regional taxing district, he told the Sentinel. This means that the Arizona Department of Revenue collects money from the district and not from any single jurisdiction. (No point of sales report is provided to the RTA.) Why is this important to note? Everyone pays in. No matter where anyone shops in the district, they pay the RTA half-cent sales tax. As a whole, the district wants to offer a fair distribution of the regional dollars collected to everyone in the district.

The (RTA) board is fully committed to ensure a balanced regional distribution of benefits, he said. Otherwise, in my opinion, the voters wont support any proposal that is not a fair distribution of benefits.

The post Kris Mayes OKs Tucson sales tax vote this summer appeared first on Arizona Mirror.
AUSTIN (Austin Business Journal)  About a year after opening in Austin, The Kroger Co. will be closing its delivery facility and laying off workers.

Kroger said on its website that it will close its Austin, San Antonio and South Florida delivery facilities on May 25. The grocery company wanted to break into the Austin market with its food delivery model instead of traditional retail stores. It had 90 ZIP codes on its delivery route, reaching areas such as Round Rock, Pflugerville, Bee Cave, Hutto, Cedar Park and San Marcos.

The Cincinnati-based company operates from a leased 70,121-square-foot facility in Northeast Austin at 2401 Ferguson Lane. Its unclear what will happen to the facility.

Read the full story in the Austin Business Journal.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
The Zircon missiles used by Russia to attack Kyiv on 7 February and 25 March do not adequately perform during their combat missions.

Source: Andrii Kulchytskyi, Head of the Military Research Laboratory of Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise, in a commentary to Suspilne, Ukraine's public broadcaster

Quote: "This missile does not perform its combat mission. Everything that is charged, all the characteristics of super or hyper  all these are just words, but in reality, the missile is still a long way from being used in combat. It flies in the wrong direction, and does not do the job it is designed for."

Details: Kulchytskyi said that the warhead of the Zircon contains no more than 40 kilograms of explosives.

"We are still conducting expertise to determine what kind of substance is there. But the warhead is small: it cannot be compared to the warheads of such missiles as Kh-101 and Kh-22," he said.

Background:

On the morning of 25 March 2024, an air-raid warning was issued in Kyiv, followed immediately by explosions. Air defence systems were responding to an attack. Kyiv authorities reported a missile attack that caused debris to fall in the Pecherskyi, Solomianskyi and Dniprovskyi districts of Kyiv.

After the attack, it became clear that Russia had struck Kyiv with two of its newest 3M22 Zircon missiles.

On 12 February, the Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise reported that Russia had used a 3M22 Zircon missile on 7 February in Ukraine, with the Russians claiming it was hypersonic.

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On March 22, a terrorist attack took place in the Crocus City Hall concert hall near Moscow

Kyrgyzstans Foreign Affairs Ministry has urged its citizens to put off unnecessary travel to Russia following a shooting at the Crocus City Hall shopping center near Moscow that was blamed on migrants from Central Asia, Reuters reported on March 27.



If Kyrgyz citizens still wish to travel, the Ministry urges them to have all required documents on them at all times and comply with the lawful orders of Russian police.

The March 22 attack has fueled anti-immigrant sentiment in Russia, especially towards laborers from the predominantly Muslim countries of Central Asia, Reuters said.

A Russian court ordered the detention on March 26 of a man born in Kyrgyzstan on charges of providing housing to four suspects involved in the shooting, all with Tajik origins. They and three other Tajiks suspected of complicity are also in custody.

Hundreds of thousands of Central Asians work in Russia, and some have already said it has become tougher for them to do so, the publication said. Some passengers, for example, refuse to board taxis with Tajik drivers.

Read also: Moscow mass shooters claimed to be Tajik nationals and ISIS fighters

Shooting at Rus sia's Crocus City Hall



Several terrorists opened fire with automatic weapons on attendees at a concert hall in Crocus City Hall in the Moscow suburb of Krasnogorsk, where the band Piknik was set to perform. According to Russian authorities, 139 people were killed.

Russia claimed it detained those involved in the shooting. The FSB found a "Ukrainian trace" in the incident, alleging that the suspects were heading to cross the border into Ukraine, where they supposedly had contacts. This narrative is also being pushed by Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and Russian propaganda.



The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry and the Presidential Office have categorically denied Russian officials' accusations of Ukraine's involvement in the Crocus City Hall shooting.

Read also: Why Russia is trying to blame Ukraine for Crocus City Hall attack: expert opinion

ISIS claimed responsibility on March 23, releasing photos of the suspects detained by the Russian FSB earlier. Later, ISIS released a video shot by the terrorists in Crocus City Hall.

There's zero evidence tying Ukraine to the attack in Crocus City Hall near Moscow, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on March 25.

The U.S. Embassy warned on March 8 its citizens in Russia about the threat of a terrorist attack in Moscow. American diplomats stated that the attack could be carried out in crowded places, such as a concert.

Putin is said to have reportedly denied the U.S. warning, instead blaming the "West" for attempting to "intimidate" Russia.



Read also: Lukashenko derails Putins narrative about Ukrainian trace in Moscow terror attack

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Los Angeles City Councilmember Curren Price, right, appears in court with his attorney, David Willingham, in July. (Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times)

The Los Angeles City Ethics Commission has privately accused City Councilmember Curren Price of voting on a number of matters in which his wife had a financial interest, echoing charges filed last year by L.A. County prosecutors, according to two sources with knowledge of the situation.

The commission, which has the power to enforce conflict-of-interest laws, notified Price of the accusations last week, according to the sources, who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the matter.

One of the sources said the filing accuses Price of 21 violations of the city's ethics laws, many of them similar to those filed by Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. George Gascon against Price last year.

In the criminal case, Price is accused of voting to support projects for developers that had done business with a consulting company founded by his wife, Del Richardson Price, who specialized in tenant relocation services. He faces five counts of embezzlement, two counts of conflict of interest and three counts of perjury.

The allegations from the Ethics Commission mostly involve violations of conflict-of-interest laws or the council member's failure to fully disclose economic interests he held in relation to Richardson Price's business, according to one of the sources.

Ethics Commission spokesperson Nancy Jackson said this week that city law bars the department from confirming or denying the existence of a complaint or investigation.

A spokeswoman for the district attorney's office and an attorney for Price declined to comment.

The violations alleged by the ethics commission cover a larger span of time than the criminal complaint, which focuses on the period between 2019 and 2021, one source said.

In a court filing earlier this year, L.A. County Deputy Dist. Atty. Casey Higgins made references to other instances where Price allegedly had a conflict, voting on projects whose developers paid Richardson Price as far back as 2015. It was not clear why those instances did not result in criminal charges.

The Ethics Commission typically holds an evidentiary hearing after an accusation is publicly issued. Commission members then determine whether the alleged violations occurred and, if so, what penalties should apply. The document Price was served with is known as a "probable cause report," the sources said.

In the criminal complaint filed last year, prosecutors alleged Price voted on matters connected to his wife's business and perjured himself by failing to reveal his financial interest in those matters on disclosure forms that must be filed with the city.

Prosecutors said Price voted on two affordable housing projects whose developers paid his wife more than $150,000 between 2019 and 2021. Neither project is in Price's district. One is on the Westside, and the other is in South Los Angeles.

Price also faces embezzlement charges for obtaining spousal health benefits for Richardson Price through the city while he was still legally married to his first wife.

Last year, some of Price's allies said they believed the allegations against him should have been handled by the Ethics Commission, not the district attorney's office.

Read more: L.A. City Councilmember Curren Price charged with embezzlement and perjury

Price has repeatedly declared his innocence. His lawyer has said that prosecutors failed to show that the developers' payments to his wife's consulting company had any influence on his votes on those projects. The votes cast by Price were routine and noncontroversial, on proposals that passed by large majorities, according to Price's lawyer, Michael Schafler.

A judge rejected Price's bid to have the case thrown out earlier this year. A trial date has not been set.

Last month, a former aide to Price filed a civil claim against the city alleging the council member's staff harassed her on the belief that she was a "snitch" and had cooperated with the district attorney's investigation. The woman, Hawthorne City Councilmember Angie Reyes English, said she suffered retaliation at work and ultimately was fired in January, according to the suit.

Her attorney, Greg Smith, told The Times that Price's office had the false opinion that Reyes English was a whistleblower who went to the district attorney.

A spokeswoman for Price has denied Reyes English's allegations.

At a court hearing earlier this month, Higgins expressed concern that Price and his allies might be improperly interacting with witnesses in the case. Higgins said he had received information that Richardson Price "hired lawyers for witnesses," including one person who is now refusing to speak with prosecutors.

"That raises some concerns for us ... they shouldn't be talking to any potential witnesses except for an attorney of record," Higgins said.

Richardson Price didn't respond to requests for comment.

Schafler, the attorney for Price, denied "the suggestion of any impropriety relating to any witnesses in this case." He declined to say if Richardson Price had actually retained counsel for any potential witnesses.

Price is one of several city council members to face criminal charges in recent years. In 2020, former Councilmember Mitchell Englander pleaded guilty to providing false information to federal investigators. He served a short stint in prison.

Former Councilmember Jose Huizar was recently sentenced to 13 years in prison after pleading guilty to racketeering and tax evasion charges. Meanwhile, a jury convicted former Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas of bribery, conspiracy and mail fraud charges last year. He has appealed the verdict.

The Ethics Commission has a separate case against Councilmember John Lee, who has been accused of violating laws regulating the acceptance of gifts and the reporting of those gifts. Lee has been fighting that case, which could result in financial penalties.

Voters in his northwest San Fernando Valley district reelected Lee to another four-year term earlier this month.

Price is due back in court in late April, when the Los Angeles city attorney's office is expected to try to quash a subpoena from prosecutors seeking communications between the city attorney's office and Price. The city attorney's office has argued the materials are protected by attorney-client privilege.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Minnesota State Patrol officers spray journalists with pepper spray and fire rubber bullets while they are working in May 2020. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

Two journalists who were cornered and attacked by the Minnesota State Patrol as they covered protests over George Floyd's murder for the Los Angeles Times will soon settle a lawsuit with the state for $1.2 million. The pair, one current and one former L.A. Times employee, alleged the troopers violated their 1st Amendment rights.

Read more: L.A. Times journalists sue Minnesota state troopers over attack

The settlement stems from a violent May 30, 2020, incident, when staff photographer Carolyn Cole and Molly Hennessy-Fiske, then The Times' Houston bureau chief, were in Minneapolis covering the community's response to Floyd's murder by former Police Officer Derek Chauvin.

Minnesota's governor had issued an executive order for a nighttime curfew in Minneapolis and St. Paul, but the directive exempted law enforcement, emergency personnel and news media.

Los Angeles Times staff photographer Carolyn Cole. (Los Angeles Times)

On May 30, after the curfew went into effect, the two reporters were covering a protest when, they said, state troopers ordered crowds to disperse.

Even though they were wearing credentials, carrying media equipment and identified themselves as press, the journalists said, the troopers then backed them and other media personnel into a corner against a wall and began firing projectiles and pepper-spraying the group.

Read more: Complete coverage: Death of George Floyd and trial of Derek Chauvin

"Being attacked by the Minneapolis State Patrol four years ago was an experience no other journalist should have to face," Cole said in a statement. The photojournalist was pepper-sprayed and suffered a corneal abrasion in her eye. Hennessy-Fiske was bloodied after being hit multiple times by blunt projectiles.

"I hope this ruling, upholding our 1st Amendment rights, will help to protect other photographers and reporters trying to do their jobs," Cole wrote. "I appreciate the support of my colleagues and the hard work of our attorneys who fought for this positive outcome."

The two veteran journalists have reported for decades on dangerous conflicts and from war zones across the globe but said they had not been attacked in such a way by police until that evening.

"During my nearly 25-year career, I have covered numerous law enforcement agencies and protests in various states and overseas. This was the first time that I was attacked by authorities," Hennessy-Fiske, who joined the Washington Post in 2022, wrote in a statement.

Read more: Times reporter recounts being hit with rubber bullets by Minnesota police

The state of Minnesota and the reporters are expected to sign the settlement agreement this week for a total of $1.2 million. The reporters will split $200,000, and the remaining $1 million will cover attorneys' fees for the Minnesota law firm representing the journalists.

The attorneys agreed to represent the reporters on contingency, meaning they would seek their fees from the state of Minnesota if they prevailed in litigation.

The state of Minnesota did not admit wrongdoing in the settlement. The Minnesota State Patrol did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Hennessy-Fiske said the troopers "attacked not just us, but also 1st Amendment rights, including the right of the press to cover protests."

"Thats why we sued them. And thats why we prevailed," Hennessy-Fiske said. "I hope that this settlement serves as a deterrent and protects other journalists. Law-abiding reporters and photographers should never be blindsided, assaulted and injured by law enforcement for doing their job."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
In a bleak message for Rishi Sunak, Chris Hopkins said there is 'no reason why things can't get even worse' - Simon Walker / No 10 Downing Street

Britains foremost polling guru has said there is a 99 per cent chance of Labour winning the next election.

Prof Sir John Curtice said it was clearly very unlikely that the Tories would be in power after the autumn, when Rishi Sunak is widely expected to call a vote.

He said he believed Labour would be in a much stronger position to form a minority government in the event of a hung Parliament because the Tories have no friends in the House of Commons.

It comes as a new survey for The Telegraph has found the Conservatives have sunk to their lowest poll rating since the bloody aftermath of Liz Trusss misfiring mini-Budget.

Just 24 per cent of people polled by Savanta said they planned to vote Tory, compared with 44 per cent who backed Labour.

In a bleak message for Mr Sunak, Chris Hopkins, the firms political research director, said there is no reason why things cant get even worse for the Prime Minister in the coming weeks.

With a general election to coincide with the local polls on May 2 now ruled out, and Jeremy Hunt, the Chancellor, suggesting the vote could be in October, Conservative strategists will be hoping to make up lost ground in the months to come.

But Sir John believes their chances are infinitesimally small. Taking questions after a speech at the University of Strathclyde, where he is a professor of politics, he told Politico there is now a 99 per cent chance of Labour forming the next administration.

He questioned whether that should come as a surprise, arguing: Its clearly a very small chance that the Tories are going to be in government after the autumn.

In the event of a hung Parliament, he said Labour will be in a much stronger position to negotiate a minority government than the Conservatives because, apart from possibly the DUP, the Conservatives have no friends in the House of Commons.

It comes after Mr Sunak suffered a double blow on Tuesday with the resignation of two ministers, just as the Commons rose for recess.

Robert Halfon unexpectedly quit as the skills, apprenticeships and higher education minister, while James Heappey followed through on his stated intention to step down from the Armed Forces brief.

On Wednesday, Andrew Griffith, a Tory frontbencher, sought to downplay the significance of the news, saying ministerial resignations were not unsurprising or unnatural at this stage in the electoral cycle and claiming the Conservatives have a broad and deep bench to draw from.

He told Times Radio: These are ministers that have given a great deal to this country, they have done a big tour of duty in government and they have also been parliamentarians for a long and distinguished period of time.

What I can tell you is that speaking to my ministerial colleagues, people are highly engaged, they are very focused on the task in hand  and across the board we are focused on the Prime Ministers priorities, and the good news is they are working.

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The Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP) and China Eastern Airlines have entered into a strategic partnership to launch three weekly flights connecting the two countries, a report said.

Commencing on April 8, 2024, China Eastern Airlines flights will link Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) and Riyadhs King Khalid International Airport (RUH). The new route will be operated with an A330-200 aircraft, offering an annual capacity of 35,880 inbound seats, Saudi Press Agency, said.

This collaboration comes as a response to the growing interest and demand for travel between the two nations, while strengthening Saudi Arabias efforts to deepen bilateral ties with China.

The introduction of this new route with one of the world's largest airlines is another step towards enhancing connectivity between Saudi Arabia and China, a key priority market for us, said ACP CEO, Majid Khan.

We look forward to working with China Eastern Airlines to enable tourists and businesses to explore the attractions and opportunities both nations have to offer.

China Eastern Airlines said in a statement that the launch of this route marks not only the beginning of a partnership with ACP but also a new chapter in closer cooperation between the two nations. Both parties anticipate increased trade, people-to-people exchanges, and dialogues across various sectors through this 'Air Silk Road' initiative.

The Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP), under the Ministry of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, aims to enhance air connectivity from unserved and underserved markets around the world to the kingdom.
When Richard Serra turned four, he was taken to the port of San Francisco, where he was amazed to see how large masses of steel were moved from one place to another. It was the beginning of one of the most fascinating careers in contemporary sculpture  a journey that came to an end on Tuesday, when the 85-year-old legend of American art died in his home on Long Island.

Serra will be remembered for his large steel constructions worked into graceful shapes despite weighing several tons each. Capable of creating sinuous interiors in which to get lost, his sculptures were revolutionary in that they invited viewers to admire them, but also, and above all, to walk through their cauldron-colored mazes. The best example of this style, a sophisticated and monumental reflection on emptiness, is located inside the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, where it has been on permanent display since 2005 in its most emblematic gallery, a titanium arm extending parallel to the Nervion estuary. The Matter of Time is made up of eight gigantic spheres, spirals and ellipses that marked the end of Serras journey towards the understanding of space. The installation ended up achieving the improbable feat of becoming an icon in its own right, capable of rivaling the Frank Gehry building that houses it, itself considered a masterpiece.

'The Matter of Time' at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Vicente Paredes

It was around that time that the famous Australian critic Robert Hughes, as fond of provocation as he was of slogans, defined him not only the best sculptor alive, but the only great one at work anywhere in the early 21st century. With his eternally frowning brow, his compact complexion and his laconic and reflective personality, Serras death further erodes a certain idealized notion of (male) artists as individuals permanently absorbed by a transcendental mission and for whom both their life and their work are expressions of the same epic endeavor.

The son of a candy factory foreman whose family came from the Spanish island of Mallorca, and a housewife who emigrated from Odessa, in present-day Ukraine, Richard Serra was born in 1939 in San Francisco. He used to brag about his working-class origins, because, he said, they gave him a strong work ethic. This attitude, far from being a pose, became evident very soon in his Verb List (1967-1968), perhaps his most famous text, which began with to roll, to crease, to fold, to store, to bend, to shorten, to twist and so on up to 100 actions to relate to oneself, material, place, and process.

As a young man, he shaped himself intellectually through English literature, which he discovered in college. He had formidable masters: the writers Christopher Isherwood and Aldous Huxley, the anthropologist Margaret Mead, the painter Philip Guston and the composer Morton Feldman. He read Emerson and the rest of the American Transcendentalists. He also immersed himself in the French existentialists, especially Albert Camus. He left the West Coast to study art at Yale, during which time he supported himself by working in a metal processing plant. In Paris, he deeply immersed himself in Brancusi, an influence that was crucial in his own drift towards sculpture, while on the other side of the Pyrenees, in northern Spain, Eduardo Chillida and above all Jorge Oteiza were already embarking on similar reflections about space.

Goodbye to painting

His decision to quit painting was also an admission of defeat. When he saw Velazquezs Las Meninas at the Prado Museum in Madrid for the first time, he surrendered to the evidence: I thought there was no possibility of me getting close to that: the viewer in relation to space, the painter included in the painting, the masterliness with which he could go from an abstract passage to a figure or a dog. It pretty much stopped me. Cezanne hadnt stopped me, De Kooning and Pollock hadnt stopped me either, but Velazquez seemed like a bigger thing to deal with, he declared in 2002 to The New Yorker.

He made a name for himself in New York by straddling the tribes of the minimalists and post-minimalists. He differed from the first by his taste for heavy materials. With the latter, in 1968 he shared the legendary exhibition at Leo Castellis gallery that earned him a name on the scene, thanks to his films and an installation in which he threw molten lead at the wall. After that early exploration of practices and materials, his love affair with steel would not take long to take hold.

His sculptures are spread throughout museums and cities around the world, from the Glenstone open-air park in Washington to Liverpool Street station in London. In some countries, such as Germany and the Netherlands, he is held in special admiration. But despite the fame that accompanied him for decades, that list ended up being mostly random. The city of New York, after eight years of controversy, ended up demolishing his piece Tilted Arc (1981), which had been installed in Lower Manhattan, and on one occasion the artist rescued two of his works from a park in Bilbao after learning that they were going to be auctioned off.

'Equal Parallel / Guernica-Bengasi'/ (1986), by Richard Serra.

However, nothing surpassed the scandal of the disappearance, at some point between 1992 and 2005, of a work of his from a Madrid warehouse: Equal Parallel/Guernica-Bengasi (1986), property of the Reina Sofia, a museum that today exhibits in its permanent collection a version made in 2007. The disappearance was one of the most bizarre stories in the history of Spanish art in democratic times, and it inspired a book, Obra maestra (Masterpiece), by the writer Juan Tallon. Reminded about that episode, Serra used to respond with detachment that he believed that the thieves had surely sold it to make razors.

In recent times, health problems had caused him to dedicate himself to daily drawing, an art form in which he also left his original mark. For him, it was not a means (for the sketches of his sculptures he preferred to create 1:50 scale models), but an end. In an interview with EL PAIS held at the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum in Rotterdam, on the occasion of an exhibition of his drawings, he noted that he had been drawing as early as five or six years old. It was then that he realized what it meant to be a creator. My mother would bring huge rolls of pinkish paper from the butcher shop that I would spread out on the sidewalk to draw on them. Wherever we went, she introduced me as her son the artist, Serra said.

'Rotterdam Vertical #10', drawing by Richard Serra exhibited in 2017 at the Boijmans museum in Rotterdam.

He had gone to Rotterdam with his wife, Clara Weyergraf, who survives him. Married in 1981, the couple divided their days between New York City, Long Island and Cape Breton, an enclave on the Atlantic coast of Canada that has served as a refuge for other key artists of the New York avant-garde such as Philip Glass or Joan Jonas, who was Serras partner in the 1970s. That day in Rotterdam, another port city, he had written down his ideas on paper, so as not to forget anything he wanted to say. My drawings do not impose a discourse, nor do they pretend to be a representation, he warned. I dont want them to serve as a metaphor, or evoke something pre-existing. Their task is to refute language knowing that this is impossible; we interpret everything through it. That is the ultimate function of abstraction: to refute superficial readings.

A couple of weeks after that meeting, he did something that he reportedly often did: send an email to the journalist to clarify his arguments in the context of a discussion about the political usefulness of creation, during which he assured that the best art is intrinsically useless. There are two positions an artist can take; commit politically or respond to their own internal needs, he wrote then. Both options were clearly represented by [Jean Paul] Sartre and [Theodor] Adorno. The first took the path of politics, Adorno opted for an individual articulation of his own aesthetics, divorced from ideology, in something that in his own way he understood as a form of political resistance. I have always leaned towards Adornos option.

A view of three of the four gigantic monoliths by American artist Richard Serra, titled East-West/West-East, which stand in the desert of Zekreet, Qatar. Masashi Hara (Getty Images)

The origin of that discussion was criticism he received of his last great work, at least in ambition, a 2014 installation of four monoliths in the Qatari desert. Despite being a sought-after creator, he liked to show himself as an artist who is outside the management of the market. Business, he considered, had spoiled contemporary art, and particularly the New York scene. He blamed the generation following his own, the one led by Jeff Koons, which shamelessly embraced money in the 1980s.

During his last years, he tried to keep his cancer a secret, and asked journalists to cooperate. For those who knew him well, this attitude was yet another example of his obstinate personality  that of a young boy who watched large metal masses in motion at the port of San Francisco and ended up creating a universe of his own with the steel that formed his childhood landscape.

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David Evans, Labour's general secretary, has been sent a letter demanding proof of Anonyvoter's robustness - Eddie Mulholland for the Telegraph

Four trade unions have called for the Labour Party to ban the use of its online voting system, Anonyvoter, unless further proof of its robustness can be provided.

The demand came in a letter, seen by The Telegraph, from four general secretaries to David Evans, the partys general secretary  the most senior Labour employee.

The intervention follows this newspapers investigation into how the system could, in theory, be open to abuse, and allegations from Left-wing figures that they are being disadvantaged.

Sam Tarry, the Labour MP for Ilford South, is threatening to sue the party to reveal the Anonyvoter records for the re-selection race he lost in October 2022.

Anonyvoter is a computer system that allows for remote online voting. It is used by many local Labour Party branches to pick candidates for the next general election, often alongside postal and in-person voting.

There is no suggestion that the system is inherently faulty. However Left-wing MPs have raised concerns in legal letters amid claims that in some cases it is used to help moderates.

Now four general secretaries from unions formally affiliated to the Labour Party have written to Mr Evans, in what amounts to a significant escalation of the row.

The signatories were Mick Whelan, of the Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (ASLEF), Dave Ward, of the Communication Workers Union (CWU), Maryam Eslamdoust, of the Transport Salaried Staffs Association (TSSA), and Matt Wrack, of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU).

Mr Whelan is also chairman of the Trade Union and Labour Party Liaison Organisation (TULO), the body that brings together trade unions and the party.

The letter posed a series of questions about how the Anonyvoter system is being used, many revolving around fears that there are less checks and balances than in-person or postal voting, leaving the system in theory more open to abuse.

Verification processes

One part of the letter read: What assurances are there around the accuracy and integrity of the data which is uploaded to the Anonyvoter system? Are there any procedures guiding the handling of this data? Please share these procedures with us.

What access is given to candidates in a selection to verify the accuracy of Anonyvoter voting, so they can be assured of the fairness of any result, similar to the extensive verification processes for postal and in-person voting?

What access to the Anonyvoter system is given to candidates, similar to that of tellers during an in-person hustings, to ensure the integrity of the result? Please share any procedures covering this with us.

What complaints have there been about unfair practices related to Anonyvoter during selections and how have these been dealt with by the party?

Can you confirm that selections have always been paused to ensure full investigations and no further incidents?

The trade union bosses wrote at the end of their letter: If you are not able to answer these questions, as the general secretary of the Labour Party, we would have grave doubts about the continuing use of Anonyvoter.

In that case, we would seek both a moratorium on its use until proper controls are in place, and a speedy and transparent resolution to all outstanding complaints.

A moratorium would in effect mean an indefinite ban on using Anonyvoter for the picking of future candidates for the general election.

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While such a policy would have limited immediate impact, given many candidates have already been selected for seats at the next election, it reflects the scale of unease on the Left about the system.

A petition from the Left-wing activist group Momentum calling for a ban on Anonyvoter which launched on Friday has gathered about 3,000 signatures.

Mr Evans is understood to have issued a robust defence of the Anonyvoter system when asked about it at a meeting of Labours National Executive Committee (NEC) on Tuesday.

A Labour spokesman said last week in response to The Telegraphs reporting that the party has full confidence in the integrity of the Anonyvoter system.

When approached last week about the concerns, the company that runs Anonyvoter and Jas Athwal, who beat Mr Tarry in the selection to be Labours candidate in South Ilford, both did not issue a comment.

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Labour will pledge 1,300 more officers to boost London's neighbourhood policing, Sadiq Khan has announced.

It will be a mix of warranted police officers, community support officers and special constables, he said.

But his opponents claim he has failed to meet existing recruitment targets and been forced to give back tens of millions of pounds to the Home Office.

The Met Police commissioner warned recently that the force was forecast to have 2,600 fewer officers next year.

London has a record number of nearly 34,000 police officers, backed by 1,300 community support officers, 1,300 specials and nearly 11,000 staff in administrative roles.

But officers are retiring at a faster rate than new ones are being taken on, down to a combination of general recruitment problems in the public sector and extra vetting prompted by the review by Dame Louise Casey.

Sir Mark Rowley also told a committee of MPs in April last year the force had missed its recruitment target "in part" because "the reputation of the organisation at the moment doesn't help".

'National guarantee'

Mr Khan was joined by shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper on a walkabout in south London to announce the extra officers.

Ms Cooper said it was part of Labour's "national guarantee" to get more than 13,000 more officers on the frontline across the country over the next four years.

Sir Mark Rowley warned recently that the force is forecast to have 2,600 fewer officers next year

"Sadiq has already delivered more neighbourhood support to communities, including dedicated local officers, but we need to go further," she said.

"This comes alongside the record investment I'm already delivering in City Hall to keep Londoners safe," said Mr Khan.

His mayoral challengers said his pledge would be met with scepticism given 91m had needed to be returned to the government because it had not been used on new officers.

"He failed to meet his recruitment targets, and was the only police and crime commissioner in the country to do so," said Tory candidate Susan Hall.

"He isn't taking policing seriously, and this latest pledge isn't worth the paper it's written on."

Sadiq Khan said the new officers would be a mix of warranted police officers, community support officers and special constables

Green candidate Zoe Garbett said: "I would focus on investing in community policing and doing everything possible to build trust between the police and communities.

"We also need the police to be listening to Londoners to find out what will make them safer and deprioritise things that don't."

Liberal Democrat candidate Rob Blackie said: "Recently the mayor has failed to recruit police - and has had to give money back to the government. So Londoners will be sceptical that he's going to succeed this time around.

"Today the Metropolitan Police are catching rapists half as often as when Sadiq Khan became mayor in 2016. And 6,000 police are stuck in the back office instead of the frontline."

The Metropolitan Police has asked the Home Office if it could use the money to take on more civilian staff which would free up uniformed officers for the beat.

Ms Cooper did not say whether she would commit to this, but insisted Labour's strategy was centred on reviewing the balance of civilian and uniformed staff.

Ms Hall has vowed to restore an officer of commander rank to be in charge of each of London's 32 boroughs, a model dismantled during Mr Khan's mayoralty.

Labour said every borough still has a superintendent, and the intention was to have two dedicated constables and a community support officer in each of the capital's 679 electoral wards.

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LANCASTER, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A man will spend the next 30 years in prison for drug and weapon charges; however, he is also accused of disposing of a murder victims body, according to the United States Department of Justice (DOJ).

Officials say Shannon Layne Myers of Lancaster pleaded guilty to numerous federal gun and drug charges.

Authorities say Myers helped lead a drug ring in Lancaster and Kershaw counties. The group was directed by 44-year-old Daniel Shannon, an inmate serving a life sentence in South Carolina.

Daniel Shannon believed that one of his couriers carrying drugs was robbed and sent his associates to retaliate, officials say. As a result, a Kershaw man was fatally shot in September 2019.

Shannon Myers (Lancaster County Sheriffs Office)

Daniel Shannon (SCDC)

Evidence suggests that inmate Daniel Shannon sent Shannon Myers to clean up the murder scene and dump the victims body on the side of a Westville highway in Kershaw County.

In November 2019, Myers Lancaster home was searched with a warrant by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Lancaster County Sheriffs Office.

In the home, authorities say they found over 700 grams of methamphetamine, smaller amounts of heroin and other drugs, cash, scales, drug ledgers and multiple loaded firearms. Myers was arrested; however, he was released on bond in the spring of 2020.

The State says Myers and his associates jumped back into drug dealing and Myers was seen on video waving a gun while counting money and weighing methamphetamine in front of drug customers.

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In June 2020, Myers home was searched again, and drugs, scales and a loaded firearm were found, according to authorities.

These defendants operated without regard for life or the law, said Adair F. Boroughs, U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. Illegal drug trafficking rings like this jeopardize the health and safety of our community.

Myers pleaded guilty to all charges the day before his trial in October 2023. Below are just some of the charges:

Distribute methamphetamine and heroin

Four counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine or heroin

Three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm

Two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking

Brandishing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking

Myers was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of court-ordered supervision. Parole does not exist in the federal system.

This lengthy sentence highlights the severity of Myers actions and their impact on the community, said Kyle Burns, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Charlotte, which operates in both North and South Carolina. HSI is committed to holding those accountable who recklessly distribute their poison into our communities.

Inmate and alleged ringleader Daniel Shannon also pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison in June 2023.

It is unclear if Daniel Shannon and Shannon Myers have been charged in connection to the murder of the Kershaw man.

Man wearing bulletproof vest, armed with rifle, two handguns, arrested in Monroe Walmart: Police

In regards to how Daniel Shannon was able to lead the group from prison, Bryan Stirling, Director of the South Carolina Department of Corrections, released the following:

Inmates with illegal contraband cellphones are the biggest threat to public safety in America, and this is another tragic example. We need a permanent solution to remove this menace from society and make our communities safer.

The Homeland Security Investigations, South Carolina Department of Corrections-Office of Inspector General, Lancaster County Sheriffs Office, and the Kershaw County Sheriffs Office were all part of the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chris Schoen, Everett McMillan, and Ben Garner prosecuted the case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Over 175 years ago, Brigham Young and the first company of Latter-day Saints entered the Salt Lake Valley in search of land to practice their faith without interference.

Their pursuit was not unique. Much of history has depended on ordinary peoples ability to have a part of the earth they call their own: a plot of land they can have and hold, to dress it and keep it.

Yet, modern-day Utahns and many citizens in neighboring states find themselves singled out and excluded from this basic tenet of the American dream.

Theyre excluded by a federal government whose land hoard has grown to encompass a full third of the United States. This vast federal ownership is felt particularly by those in the West. The federal government owns just 4 percent of all land in the United States east of the Rockies. But west of the Rockies, it owns more than half of the land, including almost two-thirds of all land in Utah.

It wasnt supposed to be this way.

Section 9 of Utahs Enabling Act stated that federally owned land within the state shall be sold by the United States subsequent to the admission of said state into the union.

Similar language in enabling acts for Missouri, North Dakota and Illinois has been honored. At one point, the federal government controlled over 90 percent of the land in each of those states. Not today. The federal government sold back most of that land decades ago, but Congress has yet to honor its promise to dispose of the federal land in Utah or most of the West.

The Constitution set clear limits on federal land retention. The property clause only authorizes the disposal of land, and the enclave clause limits federal land ownership only to what is needed for the Erection of Forts, Magazines, Arsenals, dock-Yards, and other needful Buildings. Over time, however, the stewardship of federal lands has veered from those principles into an overbearing presence that stifles the lifeblood of local communities.

This shift culminated in 1976, when Congress passed the Federal Land Policy and Management Act. This law completely upended the federal governments public land policy. No longer would it be the official policy of the United States government to sell back the land, entrusting it to the people. Instead, its policy would be to keep the land, in perpetuity, for itself.

In many respects, this vast federal estate is reserved for the enjoyment of the very few: an elite who want to transform the American West into picturesque tourist villages and uninhabited, but nonetheless beautiful, vistas. They like to say that federal lands are an inheritance for every American to enjoy. But the benefits these elites extol seem primarily to flow their way, while the burdens tend to fall upon the people who live close to those very lands.

The distant elites get their playgrounds in places like Aspen and Moab. They get their rustic cabins, craft breweries, artisanal coffee shops and bed-and-breakfasts.

But what do the actual inhabitants of these locales get?

They get to sell the family farm after generations of ownership because theyre told that the grazing rights their family has enjoyed for generations are now illegal. They watch their children grow up, anxious that they have no future where their families have lived for generations.

The federal governments stranglehold on the West means our communities cant fully benefit from the lands surrounding them. The inability to access these lands or collect property taxes stifles local economies and strains public services.

Although programs like payment in lieu of taxes are meant to compensate for these losses, Congress reliably fails to fully fund those programs, leaving our communities to bear the burden of federal land ownership without fair support.

Our immediate task is to rein in the federal government and reclaim a space for ordinary Americans to live and prosper. We must restore the Founders vision of localism and self-government. These principles inspired the creation of our communities and fostered the development of the greatest civilization the world has ever known.

As we navigate the future of our public lands, we must remember the individuals, families and towns that are the lifeblood of the West. The conversation must shift to a balanced approach that respects our natural heritage and the needs of local communities. Its time to reevaluate our stance on federal land management and work toward solutions that uphold the spirit of our Constitution while promoting the well-being of families and the land they call home.

Mike Lee is a U.S. senator representing Utah since 2011.

This story appears in the March 2024 issue of Deseret Magazine. Learn more about how to subscribe.
Rent rise restrictions introduced under former first minister Nicola Sturgeon only applied to existing tenancies - Jane Barlow

Landlords could be banned from raising rents for as long as five years under radical SNP plans.

Humza Yousafs SNP-Green government has have published legislative proposals to implement long-term market controls which could give local authorities powers to create rent caps as low as 0pc.

Other proposals include allowing courts to delay evictions during the winter months or where they cause high levels of stress, and preventing landlords from unreasonably refusing pets or requests to paint the walls.

The plans, outlined in the Housing (Scotland) Bill published on Wednesday, are a product of the parties joint Bute House Agreement, which was signed back in 2021. If approved by Members of the Scottish Parliament, the Bill will become law.

The Scottish Government said it wants to enact long-term rent controls by the end of 2025, but industry experts have warned the new plans will reduce investment in the countrys private rental sector and force more landlords out of the sector  reducing the number of rental homes on the market.

It comes despite previous market controls introduced by former first minister Nicola Sturgeon backfiring on tenants, with Scotland suffering the largest rises of anywhere in the UK.

It emerged last week that Scottish tenants have been hit with the highest annual rent growth of any UK nation at 11.6pc as Edinburgh and Glasgow witness steeper price increases than London.

Nicola Sturgeons coalition deal with the Greens included a pledge to introduce an effective national system of rent controls and led to the introduction of the cap in 2022.

But it did not initially apply to new tenancies, leading to landlords hiking rents when their properties became vacant.

Since Sturgeons rent cap, four Scottish councils  including Edinburgh and Glasgow  have declared a housing emergency.

Paul McLennan, the SNPs Housing Minister, and Patrick Harvie, one of the two Green ministers in Humza Yousafs government, unveiled the latest legislation.

Mr McLennan said: Early action, through the kinds of measures included in the Housing Bill, results in fewer people reaching the point of housing crisis.

It also means people facing homelessness have more choice and control over where they live, helping them to maintain relationships in their community and stay in work.

The plans go far further than Michael Goves Renter Reform Bill in England, which is designed in part to put an end to so-called no-fault evictions.

Under the Scottish proposals, in areas where rent controls are introduced, landlords will only be allowed to increase rents once every twelve months  but this increase could be capped as low as 0pc.

Outside rent control areas, there would be no restrictions on rent increase amounts  but rent increases would no longer be able to be applied during the first 12 months of a tenancy, as they can at present. This is designed to close the loophole which allowed landlords to avoid previous rent caps.

Evictions can also be blocked on appeal in cases of disruption during exam periods for school-aged children or university students, to periods of religious observance, traditional festive periods or if it may have a detrimental effect on the tenants health or stress levels, the bill says.

If a local authority issues a request for information to the landlord and they do not respond within 28 days, the bill is also proposing that councils could take landlords to the first-tier tribunal.

Miles Briggs, shadow housing secretary for the Scottish Conservative Party, said: On the SNP-Greens watch, housebuilding levels continue to fail to meet demand. That situation is only going to get worse with their cuts of almost 200m to the housing budget.

Yet Patrick Harvies main measure in this bill is going even further than his naive rent freeze, by bringing in rent controls. These have been proven not to work elsewhere and will curtail housing developments at a time when we are crying out for them.

John Blackwood, chief executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords, said: The rent control proposals, as has been seen in places like Ireland which has similar measures, will see reduced investment and more landlords leaving the sector, leading to higher costs for tenants.

The effects of Scottish Government policies in the private rental sector are already being felt, with rising costs reducing supply and placing more pressure on council and housing association properties that they are struggling to cope with.

Individual landlords have said the market controls already in place have caused severe disruption to their businesses.

DJ Alexander, Scotlands largest letting agent, has warned that landlords will simply walk away.

David Alexander, the letting agents chief executive, said: Once again, rent control areas are being proposed without evidence that they have ever worked anywhere in the world.

Crucially, it ignores the fact that landlords, property investors and corporate institutions have the very real option of relocating elsewhere or of simply walking away from the sector. There may be many property investors who feel that enough is enough.

At a time when funding for more social housing has been slashed it seems odd to target the only alternative tenants have in Scotland, which is the private rented sector.

Aditi Jehangir, secretary of Living Rent  a national tenants union in Scotland  welcomed the plans, but said he feared the landlord lobby would try to water down the bill at every step.

He added: Our representatives need to stand up for tenants and bring in robust rent controls that both improve housing quality and ensure homes in Scotland are affordable.

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New officers graduate last fall from the LAPD's academy. The department also conducts training for or alongside some foreign law enforcement agencies accused of human rights abuses, including Israeli security forces. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

On graduation day at the LAPD's academy last summer, they marched with the other recruits, lined up for inspection, and even walked onstage to pose for pictures with then-Chief Michel Moore, like the rest of the class.

And yet, something was off.

Their look, for starters. While all of the other rookie officers were bare-faced, the five men sported neatly trimmed beards. Their shoes were brown leather, not black. And instead of the traditional LAPD blue, they wore crisp teal dress uniforms with red epaulets  identifying them as belonging to the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Interior.

Their presence at the academy's graduation stirred new questions about the appropriateness of the Los Angeles Police Department's close relationships with overseas security services, particularly those from countries accused of human rights violations.

While supporters of training Emirati officers at the academy argue that it provides a valuable cultural exchange for all involved, human rights groups have denounced the Persian Gulf nation's government for its history of quashing dissent and denying the rights of gay and transgender people.

Over the decades, LAPD officials have met with representatives from numerous countries, including Russia and Qatar, who sought out the department because they wanted to learn about how it handles large-scale protests or complex criminal investigations.

Top brass from the LAPD have also been visiting law enforcement agencies overseas for decades. But concerns about such exchanges have grown since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war last fall. Critics of Israel's military assaults on the Gaza Strip and its crackdown in the occupied West Bank point out that the LAPD has sent personnel to study and train with Israeli security forces accused of state-sanctioned violence against civilians in the two Palestinian territories.

The Police Department's ongoing relationship with Israeli forces  based on what officials have said is a shared goal of fighting extremism inside their borders  has come under scrutiny before, along with other international training efforts. The agency's dealings with Israeli forces date back to at least the early 1980s, but ramped up after the 9/11 attacks as the LAPD sought to boost its counter-terrorism training.

In 2002, the Washington advocacy group Jewish Institute for National Security of America sponsored an LAPD delegation's weeklong trip to Israel, during which department officials visited police and military outposts and studied Israels border patrol operations in the Galilee region and the occupied West Bank.

Around the same time, the department began sending bomb squad technicians to learn from their counterparts in Israel; at least one trip was paid for by an $18,000 donation from the Los Angeles Police Foundation, a nonprofit independent fundraising group.

Read more: How getting jacked up by police helped shape the LAPDs chief watchdog

In the years since, high-ranking officials from L.A. and Israel have routinely traded delegations. But critics say that in light of the polarizing conflict in Gaza, the LAPDs ongoing ties to Israeli forces threaten the department's image of impartiality.

Akhil Gopal, a member of the police abolitionist group Stop LAPD Spying Coalition, said such trips are problematic for a number of reasons. LAPD officials receive instruction on tactics rooted in flawed theories of radicalization that unfairly criminalize Muslims, Gopal said. He argued that such training has helped shape harmful LAPD programs that have targeted Black and brown Angelenos.

In some cases, he said, public records have shown that the department acquired surveillance technology developed by firms with ties to overseas intelligence agencies.

The LAPD is exchanging tactics, learning from the experience of Israel and essentially being the colonial force in a colonial situation," said Gopal.

In January, a coalition of advocacy groups including the Council on American-Islamic Relations called on the Los Angeles Police Commission to conduct a thorough investigation into reports suggesting that LAPD officers may have undergone training programs in Israel.

While we acknowledge the importance of international collaboration and the exchange of knowledge between law enforcement agencies, it is crucial to ensure that such engagements align with principles of human rights, justice, and accountability, the groups said in a letter.

Elsewhere in the Middle East, the LAPD has its partnership with the United Arab Emirates, or UAE, a tiny oil-rich nation bordering Saudi Arabia. Although it has a reputation for glittering skyscrapers and safe streets, a 2022 report from the United Nations Committee against Torture, which looked at the country's involvement in the conflict in Yemen, "expressed concerns over allegations of torture and ill-treatment by the State partys regular armed forces, state security agencies, and related non-state armed groups."

The cadre of Emirati officers who graduated from the LAPDs academy last year were part of a fledgling exchange program sponsored by the International Assn. of Chiefs of Police, or IACP, and touted as a way to promote better understanding by sending officers from the U.S. and Canada to train in the UAE and vice versa.

But the department had formalized its relationship with UAE law enforcement in 2015, with a delegation from Abu Dhabi visiting L.A. a few months after the emirate hosted several high-ranking LAPD officials.

According to emails obtained through an open records request, the IACP had assured officials in Los Angeles that the UAE would incur all costs associated with the Emirate delegation's trip. The officers involved had all studied at colleges in the U.S., Australia or the UAE and had been cleared by the UAE's Interior Ministry  although records of its investigations into their backgrounds were not turned over to the LAPD.

A delay in securing the officers visas to enter the U.S. postponed their start date by a month. But in early March 2023, the officers boarded an Emirates flight to Los Angeles, and within days of arriving they were attending an orientation for LAPD recruits.

In an interview with The Times, Vince Hawkes, the IACP's director of global policing, said exchange programs are focused on providing technical assistance and training at a time when agencies like the LAPD increasingly find themselves facing threats of crimes that transcend borders. These exchanges, he said, are valuable "not only from a tactical perspective, but [provide] experience dealing with multiple cultures.

Read more: LAPD cant get rid of their bad cops. Heres what they want to do about it

Most officers could benefit from a greater cultural awareness by working overseas, Hawkes said, calling such a perspective a huge advantage" for a police force in a diverse city like Los Angeles.

What do we do at prayer time  how do we manage that at the police academy? How do we handle Ramadan, when people are fasting?" he said. Not only do we have that learning with the training programs in different countries, but also one of the greatest positive components is that culture piece.

The Police Department refused to make the officials involved in the training available to The Times. In response to an inquiry from the paper, the LAPD confirmed that the foreign officers had gone through the departments basic academy training course, completing 833 of the 912 hours of standard training that recruits go through before graduating.

The state-mandated courses cover law, academics, report writing, human relations, physical training, arrest and control, law enforcement tactics, and defensive tactics, but the Emirati officers were not certified under the state's Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.

"The exchange program is designed to expose police officers from the UAE to methods of policing the United States," the LAPD said in a statement. "Additionally, the Los Angeles Police Department strives to strengthen our law enforcement partnerships and be a positive influence within the international community.

Collaboration between law enforcement agencies from different countries is nothing new, experts say. Departments are known to swap intelligence, coordinate joint patrols along international borders, and occasionally team up on investigations into sprawling criminal networks that traffic in arms, drugs, sex and labor around the world.

Read more: How the LAPD took down a sneaker heist ring that stole millions worth of Nikes

During the Cold War, the U.S. government sent hundreds of police advisors  including some from the LAPD  to more than 40 countries in an effort to thwart the spread of communism and teach humane practices, said police historian Max Felker-Kantor.

But the federal agency responsible for these programs was shuttered in the 1970s, when congressional hearings uncovered torture and other abuses committed by the foreign officers who had received U.S. training.

As the scandal faded from memory, then-Chief Daryl Gates became obsessed with asserting the department as a law enforcement leader on the world stage, Felker-Kantor said. Gates' efforts at diplomacy among police agencies helped create a lasting perception that the LAPD is worthy of emulation, the historian said, with major departments abroad and domestically often following in the footsteps of what he called "L.A.'s finest."

After Iranian revolutionaries stormed the U.S. Embassy in Tehran in 1979 and captured 52 Americans, Gates boasted that hed send over our SWAT teams and well get them out. By then, he was already cozying up to foreign agencies, Felker-Kantor said, pointing to letters between Gates and Israeli security forces who sought to arrange a tour of LAPD facilities.

The department had been sending trainers overseas under Gates predecessor to countries in crisis like the Dominican Republic, which erupted into civil war in the mid-1960s following the brutal reign of dictator Rafael Trujillo. The LAPDs advisors took riot control manuals and training and things like that to the country, according to Felker-Kantor.

The U.S. has trained police forces around the world, including in Haiti and Hong Kong, whose law enforcement agencies both went on to use tear gas and other aggressive tactics against protesters in recent years, according to Ben Kenzer, a political scientist in Ohio.

With that sort of training, he said,  were not really creating an effective police force that is representing the people  were creating an effective police force that is effective at repressing dissent."

Considering the dizzying pace of technological change, police departments feel pressure to learn from one another on policing issues that are affecting us globally, said Scott Bradbury, a Toronto police detective sergeant who was part of the first IACP cohort to the UAE.

Read more: Countless hours of LAPD body camera videos go unwatched. Could AI be the answer?

But the true value of the exchange program is the collaboration of the involved people, he said, adding that he'd received an invaluable education in cultural awareness by training alongside officers from Turkey, Uzbekistan, Nigeria.

Another expert, Johns Hopkins University professor Stuart Schrader, said that foreign police training has continued despite periods of intense public scrutiny of the practice.

In the past, it was kind of a win-win, and just a PR benefit. And now maybe that assumption cannot be maintained that easily, said Schrader, author of a book on how international exchange programs have helped project U.S. power overseas  while at the same time shaping policing on American streets.

Some cities have reconsidered such partnerships in recent years, notably Durham, N.C., which in 2018 passed a resolution barring its Police Department from taking part in exchanges where officers receive military-style training. And yet, Schrader said, even many symbolic votes in other cities to denounce Israels actions in the latest conflict have been soundly rejected given the really tense political climate.

On some, level the idea that the U.S. has something to teach other countries about how to do law enforcement well is a bit laughable at this point, given what we know about the levels of police violence and human rights abuses that have occurred in this country, he said. That doesnt mean Im an isolationist.  if theres a way to look at other best practices, I think that thats something the U.S. can learn from.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Lara Trump thinks the Republican Party is past disputing the 2020 presidential election, she told NBC News in a Tuesday interview. Her remarks come despite the fact that her father-in-law, former President Donald Trump, continues to campaign on unfounded claims that he lost the race due to election fraud.

Well, I think were past that. I think thats in the past, the recently elected Republican National Committee (RNC) co-chair said in the interview. We learned a lot. Certainly, we took a lot of notes.

The past is the past, and unfortunately, we had to learn a couple of hard lessons in 2020. Believe me, we are taking those, we are applying them all across this country in every single state and we want to ensure that indeed, every single legal vote was counted, she continued.

Just weeks into her tenure in a leadership position at the RNC, Lara Trumps comments demonstrate a shift in the GOP. The RNC laid off more than 60 people in early March, including senior staff. In the interview with NBC, Lara Trump said they addressed staffing that the party probably didnt need there.

With former President Trump as the only remaining GOP presidential candidate for the November election, Lara Trump said the RNC is focused on encouraging Republican voters to embrace new ideas for voting  particularly ones her father-in-law has previously slammed.

Earlier this month, she said the RNCs top priority is protecting the vote in this falls elections.

I think when were looking at [the] actual election, we have to start encouraging Republican voters to do things like voting early, trust mail-in voting, she said Tuesday. These are ways that we actually can have a big lead as we head into Election Day, and these are things that traditionally Republicans have sort of shied away from.

Before earning one of the partys top positions, Lara Trump said she would spend every single penny of the RNCs funds to get Trump back in the White House. A big question surrounding the change in leadership is whether the RNC will fund Trumps mounting legal fees.

Lara Trump said the RNC does not support paying his legal bills. She later made a pitch to Republican voters, asking them to trust her to use their donations correctly.

Trust me, I am the daughter-in-law of Donald Trump, I will ensure that every penny of every dollar is going to causes that Republican voters care about, she said. We want to of course elect Donald Trump at the top of the ticket, and then, of course, Republicans all the way down.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Newly minted Republican National Committee co-chair Lara Trump said Tuesday that she believes the party is "past" litigating the 2020 election, comments that come as her father-in-law, former President Donald Trump, prepares to face two juries on charges alleging that he illegally tried to overturn the 2020 election results.

"I think were past that. I think thats in the past," Lara Trump told NBC News when she was asked whether it will be the RNC's position that the 2020 election was not fairly decided.

"The past is the past, and unfortunately, we had to learn a couple of hard lessons in 2020," she continued. "Believe me, we are applying them all across this country in every single state, and we want to ensure that, indeed, every single legal vote is counted.

Lara Trumps comments illustrate a key dynamic in the Republican Party in 2024: As she sought to cast the 2020 election as in the past and champion voting by mail, re-litigating the 2020 election, repeating false claims it was stolen and casting aspersions on the security of mail voting remain major fixtures for her father-in-law on the stump.

Last weekend, meanwhile, the former president said the man accused of killing Georgia nursing student Laken Riley wouldnt have been in America if the election werent rigged, because we didnt allow people like that into our country.

He regularly refers to the 2020 election as rigged on his social media channels. And, most critically, he faces charges in Washington, D.C., and Georgia related to his attempts to overturn the election results.

NBC News correspondent Garrett Haake interviews Lara Trump. (Frank Thorp V / NBC News)

Lara Trump has previously and publicly backed unfounded claims about the 2020 election made by her father-in-law and other allies. Days after the 2020 election, she posted on social media casting doubt on Dominion voting machines (Dominion settled with Fox News for more than $700 million after it sued alleging the network allowed defamatory claims about the company to proliferate on the network). A month later, she posted again casting doubt on the election results in Michigan.

Trump pointed to dozens of lawsuits the RNC has filed over election administration (most recently in Nevada, where the party is suing the state over its voter rolls) as examples of how the committee is wading into questions about election laws ahead of November.

Asked about the former presidents past comments undercutting mail-in voting, Lara Trump said he is singing a different tune.

Well, I actually think if you talk to him right now, you will see that he is very much embracing early voting, she said.

I think that the message that the people of this country have sent to Donald Trump, and you saw it in the primaries, is that they want to get out and they want to vote for him as soon as they possibly can, she continued. And if that means Day 1 of early voting for people, hes very happy for them to go out and do it.

New leadership at the RNC

Lara Trump officially stepped into the role of co-chair this month at the RNC's spring meeting, after former chair Ronna McDaniel and co-chair Drew McKissick stepped aside for the leadership team blessed by Donald Trump. Former North Carolina GOP chair Michael Whatley is now the group's chairman, the top slot at the national party organization.

Asked what she would say to voters wary of a Trump takeover of the RNC, Lara Trump made an appeal based on her experience on the past Trump campaigns, noting that her father-in-law had tasked her to help him win her home state, North Carolina, twice.

Lara Trump, co-chair of the Republican National Committee (Frank Thorp V / NBC News)

I have had so much experience," she said. "If you look at the fact that I am one of very few people who can say that I have been part of now three presidential campaigns, the media exposure and experience that we in the Trump family have had over the past eight years rivals most people who make their career in politics.

I think the reason that Im here is to assure people who ever had any question as to how their money is being spent, can they trust the RNC? Can they donate to this entity?" Trump added. "Trust me, I am the daughter-in-law of Donald Trump. I will ensure that every penny of every dollar is going to causes that Republican voters care about.

And asked about her message to Republican voters who backed other GOP presidential candidates, like former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, she framed the election as a binary choice for Republicans who don't want President Joe Biden re-elected.

"They don't want to vote for Joe Biden, that's for sure. The option is Joe Biden or Donald Trump," she said. "Whether you like his personality or not should not have any bearing on anything. They are welcome to come back. We are here to work as a party."

Before she officially joined the RNC, Lara Trump told Newsmax that "every single penny will go to the number one and the only job of the RNC  that is electing Donald J. Trump," and said Republican voters would be interested in paying the former president's mounting legal bills.

She has since broadened that view in more recent interviews, and she told NBC News that down-ballot races are key priorities, too.

"Well, the No. 1 job of the RNC is to, of course, support the Republican candidate for president. That is Donald Trump. But of course, we are paying attention to all about down-ballot races, as well," she said.

"The truth is, it's great if we win the presidency, and I think that's imperative, but we also want to expand our lead in the House. We want to take back the Senate. So we are paying very close attention to all those races. We will be supporting [them] in a very big way."

Lara Trump, co-chair of the Republican National Committee (Frank Thorp V / NBC News)

And she added that the RNC "does not support paying [the former president's] legal bills," while she defended a new joint fundraising agreement between the RNC and the former president that will help fund a committee used to pay his legal bills without the RNCs having to give money itself.

"If you've never had to hire a lawyer, you're doing great stuff, you're in great shape, I'm very happy for you," she said, adding that any Trump donors who don't want their money going to the former president's legal bills can "opt out" and direct their money to the campaign and the party, instead.

Lara Trump also went on to briefly address two key issues dividing Republicans both on the campaign trail and on Capitol Hill.

On abortion, she called the Supreme Court decision that struck down the federal protection for abortion rights and kicked the issue to the states "the most democratic thing, and she threw cold water on the idea that her father-in-law might support a federal ban around 15 or 16 weeks.

I think if you asked him now, I think he would say he agrees with allowing the states to decide, she said.

Donald Trump said last week on WABC radio of New York City that "people are agreeing on 15 [weeks], and I'm thinking in terms of that," though he added later in the interview that "everyone agrees" abortion "shouldn't be a federal issue  it's a state issue."

And about whether to continue to provide funding for Ukraine in its war against Russia, she said that "we take our notes from Donald Trump" but argued that "a lot of Americans are very upset with sending all of our money overseas. We should put every single American first and make sure that we are taking care of our own country first before we consider funding anything overseas."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
UPDATE: Emma Marie Robertson has been located and is in good condition, according to the Las Cruces Police Department.

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The Las Cruces Police Department is asking for the publics help in finding a missing 13-year-old girl who has not been seen since Tuesday, March 26.

The Police Department says Emma Marie Robertson, 13, from Las Cruces, was last seen at around 6:30 p.m. by her family on Porter Drive on Las Cruces East Mesa.

The Police Department says Robertson may be with someone whos driving a gray SUV.

Emma Marie Robertson, 13. Photo: Las Cruces Police Department

Robertson is 5-feet-1-inches tall and weighs approximately 140 pounds. She has blue eyes and brown hair. She was last seen wearing all black clothing and white crocs.

The Police Department says anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to immediately call police at (575) 526-0795.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Las Cruces Police are conducting a joint investigation with New Mexico State University Police concerning a possible sexual assault that happened over the weekend, a Las Cruces Police spokesman confirmed on Tuesday, March 26.

The incident happened either on university property or property the university has jurisdiction over, he said.

The case is an open investigation and no other information is being released at this time, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge was an iconic presence in Baltimore Bay. It became a guest star on The Wire, the cult HBO series set in the city. The second season of that series mythologized  or rather demythologized  the port of Baltimore, one of the most important ones on the East Coast. The port not only marks the city for good or for bad. It is its economic engine. But that engine has been paralyzed by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which, after being struck by the Dali, is now a shapeless mass of iron.

Thinking first of the people on the bridge. But the mind wanders to a port city strangling, David Simon, the reporter who created The Wire, posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday. All the people who rely on ships in and out. The auto-ship imports, Domino Sugar, coal exports, dockwork, whatever container traffic we didnt lose to Norfolk. Industries. Jobs. Families.

Its a sentiment shared by the citizens of Baltimore. Kenneth, a 64-year-old former port worker, lamented the collapse on Tuesday. Do you see all those cars? he said, pointing to an esplanade full of perfectly aligned cars. All those cars are there to board. I used to do that with a truck, taking cars to and from the port. Coming to pick them up, putting them in my truck and delivering them to our dealers. Cars, trucks, vans, everything. Sometimes containers. This is going to affect many working ports. The port is the heart of the city. It really is.

In his address on the bridge collapse on Tuesday, U.S. President Joe Biden made it clear that the order of priorities is first rescuing the victims, then unblocking the port, and finally rebuilding the bridge. It is difficult to determine how long it will take for the port to reopen to container and freight ships. After collapsing in an area between 15 and 20 meters deep, the bridge has become a gigantic artificial barrier to the passage of boats.

To the people of Baltimore, I want to say: Were with you, Biden said. Were going to stay with you as long as it takes. And like the governor said, youre Maryland tough, youre Baltimore strong, and were going to get through this together. And I promise: Were not leaving.

The president recalled that the port of Baltimore is one of the largest shipping hubs in the country. Last year, it handled a record amount of cargo. In 2023, its private terminals handled 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo worth $80 billion, Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced last month. The Port of Baltimore also receives the largest volume of autos and light trucks in the country. Around 850,000 vehicles pass through the port every year. Moore estimates that in addition to the 15,300 direct jobs, 140,000 jobs are linked to port activities.

Were going to get it up and running again as soon as possible, said Biden from the White House. Fifteen thousand jobs depend on that port. And were going to do everything we can to protect those jobs and help those workers.

The ports closure will cause temporary bottlenecks in the supply chain, already affected by low water levels in the Panama Canal and insecurity in the Red Sea  the gateway to the Suez Canal  which are two key infrastructures in the international maritime traffic of goods. Dozens of cargo ships bound for Baltimore remained en route or anchored outside the port awaiting their destination. The impact, in this case, is more local than global.

The Port of Baltimore is among the top 20 ports in the United States in terms of volume of cargo. On the East Coast, it is surpassed by the complex formed by the ports of New York and New Jersey and the port of Virginia. Behind it is the port of Philadelphia.

Some companies consulted by Reuters downplayed the situation. The port is a leader in sugar imports, but the largest U.S. sugar company, ASR Group, says it has six to eight weeks of raw sugar stocks at its Baltimore refinery, which is supplied by ships arriving at the port of Baltimore. BMW does not expect any immediate impact beyond occasional delays, as its auto terminal is located at the entrance to the port across the bridge and is still accessible, it said. Volkswagen also says its port operations in Baltimore have not been affected because of the location of its facility, although there may be truck delays because of traffic detours. GM said it will divert its vehicle shipments to other ports and added that it expected minimal impact from the bridge collapse.

In contrast, coal producer Consol Energy said vessel access to its marine terminal has been delayed and that it is studying all available options to minimize or address the direct and indirect impacts to the company and its operations. Railroad company CSX stated that its coal customers should expect potential shipment delays. Ford Chief Financial Officer John Lawler said the Baltimore bridge collapse and subsequent port closure will force the automaker to divert parts to other ports, which will affect its supply chain, but that the group has already secured alternatives. The CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, Dimitris Psillakis, stated in an interview with CNBC that it is too early to know how the bridges collapse will impact its operations.

A key piece of infrastructure

Beyond port activity, the bridge was critical to commuting in Baltimore, as it is part of its beltway. It is also key to the northeast corridor. Some 33,000 vehicles crossed it daily. Ive directed my team to move heaven and earth to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge as soon as humanly possible, Biden said in his address, but just as reopening and normalizing shipping traffic may be a matter of weeks or months, building a new bridge will take years.

It took five years to build the bridge, which collapsed within seconds. When it opened in 1977, it served as an alternative to the congested Harbor Tunnel, which runs under the river. The collapse will especially affect trucks that transport dangerous goods, such as oil, natural gas and chemical products, which are barred from the tunnels, as well as large vehicles, which cannot pass through because of their size. They will have to detour some 50 kilometers through the section of the ring road running west of the city.

Overall, the bridges collapse will affect all commercial traffic at the port and distribution warehouses. Amazon has a huge logistics warehouse in the port area, on the north bank of the Patapsco River, for which the infrastructure was key. Last year, when I worked at Amazon, I was crossing that bridge up to 20 times a day, day and night, an Uber driver who used to deliver packages for the e-commerce giant said Tuesday. Now it will be necessary to take huge detours and face more congestion.

This is going to take some time. And the people of Baltimore can count on us, though, to stick with them at every step of the way until the port is reopened and the bridge is rebuilt, Biden concluded.

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Combatting job shortages means hiring more people, but it isnt that easy, especially for immigrants who make up one-fifth of Nevadas labor force.

Antonio Munoz, owner of 911 Taco Bar and Catering knows the struggles immigrants face all too well. His mom came to the U.S. in the 1980s. Through amnesty, she was able to obtain her citizenship.

Ive also had other family members here for 20 to 30 years that have been working and contributing back to the community, paying taxes, and until recently were able to establish some type of residency here and lived their American dream but it took them over 20 years, Munoz remarked.

Its one of the reasons why Munoz took part in a roundtable table discussion Tuesday morning with other business leaders on how to strengthen our workforce by hiring more people including immigrants.

This discussion was important, it made me realize of all the job opportunities that are still out there that are not being filled especially in the construction community, Munoz added.

New home builds may be helpful in decreasing home prices, but job vacancies have impacted the construction workforce.

Recent numbers in 2024, we have sold around 800 homes with 6,000 Californians moving here and thats not even the demand from Nevadans moving around so a severe supply and demand problem, Amanda Moss, senior director of government affairs for the Southern Nevada Homebuilders Association explained.

Moss said one of the solutions is helping workers obtain employment authorization and access work opportunities all while calling on local government leaders to make administrative changes to help migrants.

Immigrants or first or second generation folks that live here, they work hard and theyre ready to work, Moss said. Construction isnt easy, swinging a hammer or banging on a roof in the dead of summer is a difficult position so our members do what they can to attract a qualified workforce and make these jobs enticing to talks and a lot of our labor is from the immigrant population.

James ONeill, political director from the American Business Immigration Coalition is hoping the president will expand more on the parole employment program, which allows noncitizens to work legally.

The President of the United States has the ability and the authority to expand workforce authorization through a mechanism called Parole. Currently, there are 1.1 million undocumented spouses of American Citizens, these are folks without legal work authorization in the United States who have a us citizen spouse. Most people think when you marry a U.S. citizen you get your papers and youre able to apply for a green card. For most people thats not the case, ONeill said. The ultimate solutions to these problems that were facing is immigration reform, legislative immigration reform in the Congress. Thats why were looking at the president to use his authority to help solve this problem so we can set ourselves up for success.

For more information on the Parole program, click here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A man who broke into an 85-year-old womans apartment and punched her, leading to her death a week later, was sentenced on Tuesday to 25 to 68 years in prison, according to court records.

Demetrius Walker, 29, agreed to plead guilty to a murder charge in January, records said. Due to the victims age, the charge carries a sentencing enhancement.

Demetrius Walker, sentenced to a minimum of 20 years to a maximum of 50 years plus a consecutive term of a minimum of 5 years with a maximum of 18 years for the victim being over the age of 60 (Henderson Police Department)

Walker was sentenced Tuesday to a minimum of 20 years to a maximum of 50 years plus a consecutive term of a minimum of 5 years with a maximum of 18 years for the victim being over the age of 60 with 1,070 days credit for time served, records showed.

Walker, a.k.a. Pharoah, broke into 85-year-old Mary Lacellas apartment in a complex near Sunset Road and Whitney Ranch Drive in April 2021.

Walker repeatedly punched Lacella during the home invasion.

Las Vegas man who broke into 85-year-old womans apartment, killing her, takes plea deal

She was able to call the police and answer some questions following the attack, but she was transported to a local hospital and died a week later after suffering from a brain bleed, according to an arrest report.

Walker agreed to speak with the 8 News Now Investigators in 2021 but denied a request to record the conversation.

I remember looking through cars, and then I remember knocking on someones door and asking if I could crash, he said about the morning of April 21. I remember knocking on one door and no one answered, and I remember kicking it in. I heard someone scream. I panicked, turned out and ran.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
(AP)  One person involved in the Baltimore bridge collapse has been discharged from the hospital, an official with the medical center said.

Dr. David Efron, the chief of trauma at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland Medical Center, did not comment on the nature or severity of the patients injuries. The hospital has not released the patients name.

A cargo ship lost power and rammed the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, destroying the span in a matter of seconds and plunging it into the river. Six construction workers are missing and presumed dead by their employer.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says its too soon to say how long it will take to reopen the Port of Baltimore or replace the destroyed Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Buttigieg noted at a White House news briefing Wednesday that the bridge took five years to construct.

That does not necessarily mean it will take five years to replace, he said.

What we know about the Baltimore bridge collapse

Coast Guard Vice Adm. Peter Gautier says hazardous materials aboard the damaged ship pose no threat to public safety.

Gautier said at the briefing that the ship is holding over 1.5 million gallons of fuel, and that more than 50 of the cargo containers on board contain hazardous material. But he says that the ship is stable and that authorities have determined there is no safety risk.

There is no threat to the public, he says.

Buttigieg cites 4 transportation focuses

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says the Biden administration is focused on four areas related to transportation as the investigation continues into the ship crash that collapsed the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday.

Speaking at a White House news briefing Wednesday, Buttigieg said officials are focused on reopening the port, dealing with supply chain issues, rebuilding the bridge and addressing surface transportation.

Buttigieg said he will meet with shipping and supply chain officials Thursday.

We are going to help to get it open as soon as possible, he said.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre says President Joe Biden has instructed his team to move heaven and earth to aid in recovery and rebuilding.

Singapore plans its own investigation

Officials in Singapore say they will conduct their own investigation into the bridge collapse, in addition to supporting U.S. authorities.

The ship that struck the bridge, the Dali, was traveling under a Singaporean flag. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore said Wednesday it was working with the ships management company, Synergy Marine Group, to get information to the U.S. Coast Guard for its investigation.

The agency also said Singapores Transport Safety Investigation Bureau will independently investigate, not to determine liability, but to identify lessons for the future.

Ships fuel heater pressure gauges had problem in 2023

A 2023 inspection of the ship in a Chilean port turned up a problem with the fuel heaters pressure gauges, but it was corrected before the ship left the port, the Maritime Authority of the Chilean Navy says.

Previous reports had indicated the June inspection of the Dali in Chile identified a problem with the ships propulsion and auxiliary machinery, according to the shipping information website Equasis, but the records didnt elaborate.

The Chilean Navy said in a statement Wednesday that the ship had been inspected in the port of San Antonio on June 27, 2023, and that the pressure gauges of the fuel heaters were detected to be illegible.

The problem was corrected the same day, and the ship was able to depart, the Chilean Navy says.

The Dali was most recently inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard in New York in September 2023, and no deficiencies were detected, according to Equasis.

Search resumes for victims in Baltimore

Mexican president highlights contributions of migrant workers

The president of Mexico says three Mexicans were among the workers on the bridge when it collapsed.

Two of the Mexican workers are missing. The third was injured and rescued.

He is safe now, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Wednesday.

Lopez Obrador also highlighted the contributions migrant workers make to the U.S. economy.

This demonstrates that migrants go out and do risky jobs at midnight, and for this reason they do not deserve to be treated as they are by certain insensitive, irresponsible politicians in the United States, he said.

Federal memo says truck recovered from water

One truck has been recovered from the water, but at least one vehicle remains hanging from the metal, according to a Homeland Security memo that was described to The Associated Press by a law enforcement official.

The official was not authorized to discuss details of the document or the investigation and spoke to the AP on the condition of anonymity.

Gov. Wes Moore on Wednesday praised divers who have spent hours in frigid water.

They are down there in darkness where they can literally see about a foot in front of them, he said. They are trying to navigate mangled metal and theyre also in a place it is now presumed that people have lost their lives, so the work of these first responders, the work of these divers, I cannot stress enough how remarkable these individuals are.

Lawmakers seek to help Baltimore workers

Maryland lawmakers are drafting emergency legislation to help workers affected by the bridge collapse.

State Sen. Bill Ferguson, the Senate president, said he and a fellow Democratic lawmaker, Del. Luke Clippinger, are proposing income replacement for the thousands of workers who rely on daily operations at the Port of Baltimore. He said he spent hours Tuesday talking to dock workers, business owners and others.

The human cost of lives lost yesterday is overwhelming and tragic, Ferguson posted Wednesday on X. The economic and stability loss to the thousands impacted in the days ahead cannot be understated.

Gov. Wes Moore, a Democrat, also noted Wednesday morning the importance of the Port of Baltimore to the nations economy, saying the shutdown is affecting everyone from farmers in Kentucky to auto dealers in Michigan.

Its imperative that we get the Port of Baltimore back up and going, and it is not just about how were supporting Maryland, Moore said. This is about how were supporting the American economy.

Francis Scott Key and other major US bridge collapses caused by ships and barges

Missing workers came from several countries

Among the six missing and presumed dead after the bridge collapse are people from Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, according to diplomats from those countries.

Guatemalas consulate in Maryland confirmed that two of the missing were Guatemalan citizens working on the bridge. Mexicos Washington consulate also confirmed in a statement posted on X that Mexican citizens were among the missing but did not say how many.

The Honduran man was identified as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval by that countrys deputy foreign affairs minister.

Father Ako Walker, a Catholic priest at Sacred Heart of Jesus, said outside a vigil that he spent time with the families of the workers as they waited for news of their loved ones.

You can see the pain etched on their faces, Walker said.

Investigators hope to board ship to collect evidence

National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy says investigators expect to have more information Wednesday on the timeline of events after information from a ship data recorder was sent to an agency lab.

Homendy says in an interview with WBAL-TV that the U.S. Coast Guard boarded the ship Tuesday and downloaded the voyage data recorder. It has been sent to the NTSBs lab, and she says they expect to have information Wednesday on the timeline.

If the weather allows, Homendy says, investigators will board the ship to look for electronics and documentation. Their focus will be on collecting evidence.

Homendy said she hopes to have substantial information for the public later Wednesday.

Recovery efforts resume for missing workers

Recovery efforts have resumed at the collapse site.

Divers returned to the site early Wednesday after challenging overnight conditions improved. Maryland State Police spokesperson Elena Russo said in a text message that recovery efforts are underway.

The six people unaccounted for and presumed dead were part of a construction crew repairing potholes on the bridge.

All 6 missing workers are presumed dead

All six workers missing after a Baltimore bridge collapsed Tuesday are presumed dead and the search for them has been suspended until Wednesday morning.

Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent for Maryland State Police, said Tuesday evening that the search and rescue mission was transitioning to one of search and recovery. He said divers would return to the site at 6 a.m. when challenging overnight conditions were expected to improve.

The six people unaccounted for were part of a construction crew repairing potholes on the bridge. Police had stopped traffic on the bridge just before the crash and said there is no evidence that anyone went into the water other than the workers.

Who was Francis Scott Key, whose namesake bridge fell? His poem became The Star-Spangled Banner

Trade association director says ships pilot tried to slow down

The pilot of the ship that caused the Baltimore bridge collapse tried to slow it down before the crash, the head of a trade association for maritime pilots said.

Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association, said he has been in close contact with officials from the Association of Maryland Pilots who described to him what happened as the ship approached the bridge. He said when the ship was a few minutes out, it lost all power, including to its engines.

The pilot immediately ordered the rudder hard to port to keep the ship from turning right and ordered the port anchor be dropped, which it was, Diamond said. The pilot also contacted a dispatch office to get the bridge shut down.

Diamond said widely circulated images show the ships lights turning off and then back on, sparking questions about whether the vessel had regained power. But, he said, the emergency generators that kicked in turned the lights back on but not the ships propulsion.

Every foreign-flagged ship entering U.S. waters must have a state-licensed pilot on board. Pilots board the ships before they enter local waterways and take navigational control of the ship, Diamond said, meaning they give orders for the ships speed and direction.

These are among the most highly trained mariners in the world, he said.

Buttigieg thanks first responders and pays tribute to collapsed bridge

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says the path to rebuilding the collapsed Baltimore bridge wont be easy or quick.

This is no ordinary bridge. This is one of the cathedrals of American infrastructure, he said at a news conference in Baltimore on Tuesday afternoon. It has been part of the skyline for this region for longer than many of us have been alive.

Buttigieg thanked first responders, including those still in the water as he spoke, and offered comfort to those who woke up today to the news that no one wants to receive.

This is an excruciating day for several families, he said.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said hes spent time with the families of victims. The strength of these families is absolutely remarkable, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Women mourn during the funeral procession of paramedics who were killed in an Israeli airstrike, in Hebbariye village, south Lebanon, Wednesday, March 27, 2024. The Israeli airstrike on a paramedic center linked to a Lebanese Sunni Muslim group killed several people of its members. The strike was one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the Lebanon-Israel border more than five months ago. (AP Photo/Mohammed Zaatari)

The death toll from Israeli airstrikes across southern Lebanon has climbed to 16, including several militants and members of paramedic groups, according to Lebanese state media and the militant organizations.

And in northern Israel, one man was killed by a barrage of at least 30 rockets fired by Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, which said it was responding to a deadly airstrike targeting a paramedic center linked to a Sunni Muslim group.

International mediators have been scrambling to prevent an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah amid near-daily violence, mostly confined to the area along the Lebanon-Israel border.

Hezbollah has been launching rockets toward Israel since Oct. 8, the day after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel, triggering the war in Gaza. Some 1,200 people were killed in Israel and another 250 people abducted.

More than 32,000 people have been killed in Gaza and 74,000 wounded, according to the Health Ministry, which doesnt differentiate between civilians and combatants in its tally. The ministry says women and children make up two-thirds of the dead.

Currently:

 Israel and Hamas dig in as pressure builds for a cease-fire in Gaza.

 With its soldiers mired in Gaza, Israel is also fighting over drafting the ultra-Orthodox.

 They fled kibbutzim after Hamas attacked. Now, many Israelis must decide whether to go back.

 Seven Lebanese and an Israeli are killed in an exchange of fire along the Lebanon-Israel border.

 Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war.

Here's the latest:

U.N. SAYS A HOSPITAL IN SOUTHERN GAZA HAS CLOSED, LEAVING ONLY 12 LEFT

UNITED NATIONS  Two-thirds of Gazas 36 hospitals arent functioning after Al Amal Hospital in the south of the territory ceased operation amid intense military activity, U.N. humanitarian officials report.

According to the U.N. World Health Organization, Gaza now has just 12 operating hospitals  two that are minimally functional and 10 that are partially functional, four in the north and six in the south, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters Wednesday.

More than two dozen staff, six patients and a companion and the bodies of two people killed inside Al Amal were moved Monday by the U.N. humanitarian office, the Palestine Red Crescent Society and the International Committee for the Red Cross before the hospital was closed Tuesday, Dujarric said.

Andrea De Domenico, the head of U.N. humanitarian operations in the Palestinian territories, visited the partially functioning Kamal Adwan hospital in the north last week and reported that it is receiving about 15 malnourished children a day and is struggling to maintain services, Dujarric said.

The hospitals only generator has been heavily damaged, and health workers and patients desperately need food, water and sanitation assistance, the U.N. spokesman said.

According to the U.N. World Food Program, Dujarric said, roughly 70% of northern Gazas population is facing catastrophic hunger but efforts to deliver life-saving aid have been impeded by fighting and access constraints in getting food to those in need.

This month, WFP was only able to send 11 convoys to the north with food for some 74,000 people, far below the colossal needs of the population, Dujarric said.

ISRAELI AIRSTRIKES IN LEBANON KILL 9 PEOPLE INCLUDING PARAMEDICS, STATE NEWS AGENCY SAYS

BEIRUT  Israeli airstrikes killed nine people in southern Lebanon late Wednesday, including paramedics who were preparing to respond to the first strike, the state-run National News Agency said.

That raises the number of people killed by Israeli strikes Wednesday to 16, after an earlier attack hit a different paramedic center linked to a Lebanese Sunni Muslim group, killing seven of the group's members.

And earlier Wednesday, the Shiite militant group Hezbollah claimed responsibility for firing a barrage of rockets into the northern Israeli city of Kiryat Shmona and a military base, which killed one person. It said the rockets were in response to the deadly strike on the paramedics center.

The Lebanese news agency said Israel bombed the village of Teir Harfa after sunset, killing five, and a second strike killed four people as paramedics gathered near a cafe in the coastal town of Naqoura.

Hezbollahs Islamic Health Society said two of its paramedics were killed in Teir Harfa while the Islamic Risala Scout Association, also a paramedic group, said one of its members was killed in the strike on Naqoura. Hezbollah said two of its fighters were killed, without saying where.

The Amal movement, a Shiite political and paramilitary organization, said the strike on Naquora killed one of its local commanders, identified as Ali Mahdi.

Israels military said it had struck a Hezbollah military compound in Teir Harfa and a terrorist cell in Naqoura.

Israel said the earlier strike in Hebbariye killed a member of the Sunni al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, or the Islamic Group, and several other militants. It said the man was involved in attacks against Israel.

Hezbollah has been firing rockets into northern Israel since the day after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7. The near-daily violence has mostly been confined to the area along the Lebanon-Israel border.

Nearly 240 Hezbollah fighters and about 40 civilians have died in Lebanon. The fighting has killed nine civilians and 11 soldiers in Israel.

IN RARE SPEECH, HEAD OF HAMAS FIGHTERS IN GAZA CALLS ON MUSLIMS TO LIBERATE JERUSALEM MOSQUE

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip  Hamas has released a rare recording of what it says is the shadowy head of its military wing calling on Muslims around the world to liberate Jerusalems Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Wednesdays recording was a reminder of the difficulty Israel has faced in realizing its stated goal of destroying Hamas military capabilities.

Mohammed Deif delivered the message in a voice recording posted Wednesday on the militant groups channel in the messaging app Telegram.

Start marching today, now, not tomorrow, toward Palestine, Deif says in a message aimed at Muslims globally, calling them to join the honor of jihad and participation in the liberation of Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Al-Aqsa is the third-holiest site in Islam, and sits on a disputed hilltop revered by Jews and Muslims in Jerusalems Old City.

No image of Deif appears in the recording, and it was not possible to authenticate it. It was not clear when the recording was made.

The leader of Hamas Qassam Brigades has not been seen in public in decades, and the last time Hamas published a voice recording of him was the day of the Oct. 7. attack that triggered the war.

Israel says Deif is one of the masterminds of the attack, and he tops Israels most-wanted list alongside Yehya Sinwar, the overall leader of Hamas in Gaza.

Deif is thought to be paralyzed after surviving multiple assassination attempts. Israel has released a small number of photos of what it says are Deif.

NETANYAHU SAYS CIVILIANS IN RAFAH CAN JUST MOVE AWAY FROM AN ISRAELI GROUND INVASION

TEL AVIV, Israel  Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has downplayed U.S. fears of a humanitarian catastrophe if Israel launches a planned ground invasion into Gazas southernmost city, saying civilians would be able to flee the fighting into other parts of the war-torn territory.

Speaking Wednesday to a bipartisan U.S. Congressional delegation visiting Israel, Netanyahu said people sheltering in Rafah  now more than half of Gazas 2.3 million population  will be able to move away from the fighting.

People just move, they move with their tents, Netanyahu said. People moved down (to Rafah). They can move back up.

Israel says a ground offensive is needed to destroy thousands of Hamas fighters in Rafah. The planned incursion has raised global alarm because the city on the Gaza-Egypt border is jammed with 1.4 million Palestinians in sprawling tent camps and U.N. shelters, most of whom have fled fighting elsewhere.

The United States, Israels top ally, has urged Israel not to carry out the operation without a credible plan to evacuate civilians. Rafah is also the main entry point for desperately needed aid into Gaza, where the U.N. says 100% of the population is at severe levels of food insecurity.

Netanyahu suggested that the dispute over Rafah was just another in a series of disagreements between the allies and that he appreciates President Joe Bidens support, but that Israel will act alone if we have to.

Israels military has said it plans to direct the civilians to humanitarian islands in central Gaza ahead of the planned offensive.

REPUBLICAN U.S. SEN. GRAHAM, ON A VISIT TO ISRAEL, CALLS FOR BIDEN TO LET ISRAEL DESTROY HAMAS IN SOUTHERN GAZA CITY OF RAFAH

TEL AVIV, Israel  Republican U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham wants the Biden administration and Congress to allow Israel to militarily defeat all remaining Hamas fighters in the southern Gaza city of Rafah  which is overflowing with more than a million displaced civilians. Israel says there are thousands of Hamas militants in that area.

Defeating Hamas in Rafah is non-negotiable, Graham told reporters in Jerusalem on Wednesday. I urge the Biden administration, the Congress to make sure that Israel has the time and space to achieve victory over Hamas militarily.

The U.S. Department of Defense wants Israel to protect civilians and secure the delivery of aid into Gaza during any military operation into Rafah, where over half of Gazas 2.3 million people have fled to escape fighting in other areas and are packed into rudimentary tent camps and U.N.-run shelters.

Israel was meant to send a delegation to Washington to discuss plans for defeating Hamas in Rafah. However, Israel cancelled the visit after the U.S. allowed the U.N. Security Council to pass a resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, without linking the two.

The cancelled meeting was the strongest public clash between Israel and the U.S. since the war began.

Graham said he understood Israels opposition to the U.N. resolution, saying the wording created doubt. But he hoped for a "breakthrough that would bring Israel and the U.S. back together talking about the way forward.

NETANYAHU SAYS U.S. VISIT WAS CANCELED AS A MESSAGE TO HAMAS

TEL AVIV, Israel  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says his decision not to send a delegation to Washington for talks with the Biden administration was meant to deliver a message to Hamas that international pressure against Israel will not prompt it to end the war without concessions from the militant group.

Netanyahus remarks appeared to be an attempt to smooth over a clash between Israel and Washington this week following the U.S. decision not to veto a U.N. Security Council resolution this week demanding an immediate cease-fire. Netanyahu decided in response to cancel a delegations visit to Washington meant to discuss Israels plans for an offensive in Gazas southernmost town of Rafah.

Speaking to visiting Republican Sen. Rick Scott of Florida on Wednesday, Netanyahu said the cancelled visit was a message first and foremost to Hamas: dont bet on this pressure, its not going to work.

Netanyahu said the U.S. abstention was very, very bad, and that it encouraged Hamas to take a hard line and to believe that international pressure will prevent Israel from achieving its war aims. Israel wants to destroy Hamas military and governing capabilities and free the hostages taken by the militant group during its Oct. 7 attack.

The U.S. abstention and Netanyahus decision to cancel the delegation was the strongest public dispute between the two allies since the war in Gaza began.

RAFAH AIRSTRIKE KILLS AT LEAST 4, WITH 10 MORE FEARED BURIED UNDER RUBBLE

RAFAH, Gaza Strip  Palestinian health officials say an airstrike on an apartment building in the southernmost Gaza city of Rafah has killed at least four people.

An Associated Press reporter saw the bodies arrive at a local hospital. Relatives say another 10 people were still buried under the rubble.

Palestinians could be seen digging through the remains of a pancaked building early Wednesday. Mohammed Dheir, a neighbor, says there were limbs all over the ground.

Israel has threatened to expand its ground operation to Rafah, where some 1.4 million people  over half of Gazas population  have sought refuge. The military has regularly carried out airstrikes on Rafah since the start of the war.

The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border on Oct. 7 and attacked several Israeli communities and army bases, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians. They abducted another 250 and dragged them back to Gaza.

In response, Israel launched one of the deadliest and most destructive military campaigns in recent history.

Gazas Health Ministry said Wednesday that at least 32,490 Palestinians have been killed since the start of the war. It does not differentiate between fighters and civilians but says women and children make up around two-third of those killed.

The Israeli military says it has killed over 13,000 fighters. It blames civilian deaths on Hamas because the militants fight in dense, residential areas, but the military rarely comments on individual strikes.

18 PEOPLE HAVE NOW DIED TRYING TO RECOVER AIRDROPPED AID, GAZA OFFICIALS SAY

RAFAH, Gaza Strip  Palestinian officials say at least six people drowned earlier this week while trying to recover airdropped food aid in northern Gaza.

Mahmoud Bassel, a spokesman for Gazas Civil Defense rescue service, says a large group of men swam out into the Mediterranean Sea on Monday to try to recover aid parcels. Six bodies were later recovered and transferred to a nearby hospital.

He said Wednesday that a total of 18 people have died while trying to recover airdropped aid in scenes of chaos and desperation.

Sometimes it falls into the sea, sometimes on civilians, sometimes on houses, sometimes on Israeli territory beyond the border fence, he said.

The Hamas-run government media office has also reported 18 deaths related to the aid drops. The United States and other nations have carried out several airdrops in recent weeks to try and get food to Palestinians in northern Gaza, where experts say famine is imminent.

Aid groups say the airdrops are no substitute for bringing aid in overland and have called on Israel to streamline its inspection procedures and open more crossings.

Israels offensive, launched in response to Hamas Oct. 7 attack, has caused widespread devastation in northern Gaza and Israeli forces have largely sealed the north off since October. Aid groups say requests to deliver aid to the north are often denied by the military or are too dangerous because of the breakdown in security across Gaza.

ISRAELI MILITARY KILLS 3 PALESTINIANS DURING AN OVERNIGHT RAID IN THE WEST BANK

JERUSALEM  The Israeli military says its forces killed three Palestinian militants during an overnight raid in the West Bank.

The military said it opened fire on militants who hurled explosive devices, killing one of them. It said an airstrike killed two other militants, and that its forces destroyed a vehicle containing explosive devices after arresting two people who were inside it.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said two of those killed were 19 years old. It says another four Palestinians were wounded in the raid, which occurred overnight into Wednesday. It did not say whether any of those killed or wounded were militants or civilians.

Violence across the West Bank has spiked since the war in Gaza broke out on Oct. 7, when Palestinian militants launched an incursion on southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people and kidnapping around 250 others.

The raid was carried out in the Jenin refugee camp, which has seen regular clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants in recent years. The dense, urban camp was built to house Palestinian refugees from what is now Israel who fled or were driven out during the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation.

The Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, has little control over Jenin.

At least 450 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank by Israeli fire since the conflict broke out, according to Palestinian health officials.

HEZBOLLAH CLAIMS ROCKET ATTACK THAT KILLED 1 IN NORTHERN ISRAEL

TEL AVIV, Israel  Israel Rescue Services said that one person was killed and two others lightly injured in a Hezbollah rocket attack on northern Israel. The man, 25, was killed from a fire that broke out at a factory in an industrial park in the northern city of Kiryat Shmona as a result of a direct hit.

Around 30 rockets were launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel on Wednesday morning, according to the Israeli military. Hezbollah took responsibility for the launches and said they were in response to an Israeli airstrike that killed seven members of a militant group in southern Lebanon.

Lebanons Hezbollah militant group began launching rockets toward Israel one day after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7. There has been near-daily violence, mostly confined to the area along the Lebanon-Israel border, and international mediators are scrambling to prevent an all-out war between Hezbollah and Israel.

The fighting has killed nine civilians and 11 soldiers in Israel. More than 200 Hezbollah fighters and about 40 civilians have died in Lebanon.

ISRAELI AIRSTRIKE KILLS 7 IN LEBANON

BEIRUT  An Israeli airstrike on a paramedic center linked to a Lebanese Sunni Muslim group in south Lebanon killed seven of its members early Wednesday.

The airstrike on the village of Hebbariye hit an office of the Islamic Emergency and Relief Corps overnight, according to the Lebanese Ambulance Association. The strike was one of the deadliest single attacks since violence erupted along the Lebanon-Israel border more than five months ago.

This condemned crime forms a flagrant violation against humanitarian work, the association said in a statement. It listed the names of the seven volunteers who were killed in the strike.

The militant Hezbollah group vowed to avenge the attack, saying it will not pass without punishment."

The Israeli military said it struck a military building in Hebbariye and killed a member of Lebanons Sunni Muslim al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, or the Islamic Group. It said the man was involved in carrying out attacks against Israel and several other militants were killed with him as well.

Since the Israel-Hamas began on Oct. 7, Hezbollah has been carrying attacks against Israels military posts along the border. Israel has since carried out scores of airstrikes, mostly along the borde,r but since late February they have started attacking northeast Lebanon.
The Latvian government decided to auction off a land plot in the centre of Riga, along with the so-called Moscow House located on it, on 26 March. The building was previously owned by the government of the Russian capital and was nationalised by the decision of the Saeima (the Latvian Parliament).

Source: European Pravda, citing LSM

Details: The Moscow House and the land beneath it will be transferred to the Ministry of Finance, which will allow the sale of this property at auction. The property can only be sold as a whole: both the building and the land.

The cadastral data from the State Land Service indicates that the land plot price is 517,083, and the building is valued at 2,348,340.

The funds raised at the auction will be allocated to support Ukraine, so special amendments to the law supporting the residents of Ukraine will be submitted to the Saeima.

In the report reviewed by the government, it is emphasised that the property may not be sold quickly.

Background:

On 11 January, the Latvian Saeima approved a bill for transferring the Moscow House in Riga to state ownership.

Before its nationalisation, the Moscow House was under the jurisdiction of organisations whose actual owners are Russian leader Vladimir Putin and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the decision of the Latvian Saeima regarding the nationalisation of the Moscow House in Riga will not go unanswered. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova promised "harsh and extremely painful" steps in response to Latvia.

Last December, the Latvian Security Service conducted criminal proceedings at the Moscow House concerning potential violations of EU sanctions against Russia.

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Latvia plans to auction off the nationalized Moscow House and the land underneath it in Riga to support Ukraine, the countrys LSM news outlet reported on March 26, citing a decision by the Cabinet of Ministers.

The building and the land, which previously belonged to Moscow and were recently nationalized by the Latvian Saeima (parliament), will be transferred to the Finance Ministrys balance to allow them to be sold at auction.

The land is valued at EUR 517,000 ($560,000), and the building at EUR 2.3 million ($2.5 million).

Read also: Court seizes assets of Russian oligarch for the benefit of Ukraine

Special amendments to the law on support for Ukrainians will be submitted to parliament to allow the funds received to be used to support Kyiv.

The deal may not happen in 2024, as the property is unlikely to be sold quickly.

On Jan. 11, the Latvian Saeima approved a bill on the transfer of the Moscow House to state ownership.

Read also: Ukrainian state budget receives confiscated Russian and collaborators funds for the first time

Prior to its nationalization, the Moscow House was linked to Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. An investigation by the Latvian State Security Service (SSB) in December 2023 found possible violations of EU sanctions against Russia, as the institution was suspected of continuing to benefit financially from the banned premises.

In response, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that the decision "will not go unanswered" and warned of "harsh and extremely painful" consequences for Latvia.



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LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  A Limestone County judge has issued an order temporarily barring a state environmental agency from closing the public comment period over a proposed rock quarry in Belle Mina.

The order issued Friday prevents the Alabama Department of Environmental Management from ending public comments related to air and treated wastewater discharge permits sought by the companies seeking to build the quarry.

Limestone Co. Correctional inmate serving life sentence killed in apparent inmate-on-inmate assault

The closing date for comments was March 22, which is now on hold, but no new closing date has been ordered.

The proposed quarry is set to be located at the intersection of Old Highway 20 and Mooresville Road, across from the Belle Mina Post Office. According to the filing, the project is spread over three parcels of land, totaling 199 acres in the unincorporated Belle Mina community.

Area residents have expressed concern about the quarry, worrying about water and air quality and potential home damage from quarry-related blasting.

The judges order follows a lawsuit filed Friday by Mitchell Frazier Farms against ADEM. The lawsuit takes aim at ADEMs permitting review process and public comment period, arguing there are a number of problems with the agencys approach.

Eleventh Judicial Circuit Judge indicted for misusing court funds, perjury

The lawsuit says the air permit is needed for emissions from a proposed rock crusher at the quarry, while the wastewater discharge permit would allow wastewater discharges in the Belle Mina area of Limestone County.

However, the lawsuit contends that ADEM did not follow its own rules regarding public notice and the details of what the public should be allowed to review. The lawsuit argues ADEMs decision to allow a 30-day comment period on the permits, beginning Dec. 1, failed to recognize the time conflicts people would have due to the holiday season.

The lawsuit says ADEM revised the schedule in mid-December, deciding to hold a public hearing and extending the comment date to March 8, and holding a public hearing on March 7. The lawsuit says notice of that hearing and comment deadline were issued Jan. 23.

But the lawsuit contends, there was another problem with the Jan. 23 notice.

In doing so, however, ADEM inserted a revised draft permit application into the record without, in the public notice, expressly notifying the public that a revised permit application (as opposed to the draft permit made available on December 1, 2023) was now available for review, the lawsuit argues.

The lawsuit also notes that last month the Limestone County Commission requested an Alabama Attorney Generals opinion on whether the location of the quarry violates two local laws in the Alabama Code, one of which restricts the location of a quarry within one mile of the TVA Industrial Mega Site, the other of which restricts the location of a quarry within two-and-a-half miles of a public school, according to the lawsuit.

After those requests, the lawsuit says ADEM extended the comment period for two weeks, until March 22, but has refused to further extend the deadline.

In arguing for the extension, the lawsuit notes a number of factors including the desire to get an opinion from the Attorney General about the local laws, the extended review of the waste discharge permit by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and incomplete or recently added documentation in the permit file.

Sarah Stewart wins GOP seat for Alabama Supreme Court Chief Judge

Limestone County Circuit Judge Matthew Huggins agreed to stay ADEMs decision to close the comment period pending resolution of the claims filed in the case.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  There will be layoffs at the Fisher-Price headquarters in East Aurora, Mattel told News 4 on Tuesday.

Mattel did not disclose the number of employees that will be laid off, but said that some of the employees in East Aurora have been offered other roles in other area of the company.

There will not be a change in the location of the headquarters, which is on Girard Avenue in East Aurora.

The layoffs comes as Fisher-Price is moving some of its business to offices in California, most notably its preschool operations. Fisher-Price-Core, however, will still be managed in East Aurora.

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.
LEAVENWORTH, Kan.  A 34-year-old Leavenworth man is sentenced for the 2022 shooting of a man inside an apartment in Leavenworth.

A jury found Ryan C. Cheatham guilty last month on charges of voluntary manslaughter and criminal possession of a firearm in the shooting death of Warren Simon Jr.

On Wednesday, a judge sentenced Cheatham to 9 years and 2 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections.

According to court records, on May 18, 2022, Leavenworth officers were sent to a reported shooting inside an apartment. When they arrived, they found Simon lying on the floor with blood on his shirt.

Raytown woman charged following Tuesday standoff with police

A witness who was inside the apartment when the shooting happened told police that Cheatham and Simon were in the living room when Cheatham picked up Simons gun and pointed it at someone.

Simon said he didnt like the way Cheatham was pointing the gun; Cheatham then shot Simon multiple times. After the shooting, Cheatham ran from the apartment but was later taken into police custody at a family members home.

Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android

On the evening of the deadly shooting, Cheatham admitted to shooting Warren but said it was an act of self-defense during an interview with Leavenworth police officers.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
PC Sanya Shahid, 31, was sentenced for nine months at Leeds Crown Court

A West Yorkshire Police officer has been jailed for making unauthorised searches on police computer systems.

Leeds-based PC Sanya Shahid, 31, was sentenced to nine months in prison for three counts of unauthorised access to computer material.

Leeds Crown Court heard she used police databases to look for information on people she knew in October 2020.

Det Ch Supt Nicola Bryar said she "had no policing purpose" for the searches.

She said: "We make it very clear to all employees from the outset of their employment that they must only access information held on police systems for a legitimate policing purpose.

"The public quite rightly should expect that any sensitive and confidential information recorded about them is protected. "It was clear from this investigation that PC Shahid had no policing purpose in making the searches she carried out on West Yorkshire Police computer systems. I hope this case helps demonstrates how seriously we take any suggestion of unauthorised access of data."

She added that Shahid was "currently suspended from duty and misconduct proceedings will now commence".

An investigation into the officer had been carried out by West Yorkshire Police's Counter Corruption Unit, under the direction of the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news@bbc.co.uk.
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is taking his demands for migrants to the U.S. presidential campaign. Immigration is a key issue for both countries, which share a miles-long and high-tension border. Last Thursday, Lopez Obrador said that if any of the White House presidential candidates committed in writing to regularizing the 5.3 million Mexicans who work in the United States without papers, he would make a point of ensuring that Mexican migrants in the U.S. were aware of this fact. And this is no small number: around 40 million Mexicans (12.3 million born in Mexico and the rest descendants) live in the U.S., and both Joe Biden and Donald Trump  the likely contenders in the November presidential elections  are competing for their votes.

President Lopez Obrador is taking advantage of the influential Mexican vote in the U.S. not only to demand the regularization of migrant workers, but also to win over support for his party, Morena, ahead of Mexicos own presidential election on June 2. Last week, the president said that if undocumented Mexicans, who have been working in the country for years, were regularized, he would announce the news not only in one of his morning press conferences, but in many. In other words, he would relay the message nearly every day.

Last Sunday, Lopez Obrador  who is little if at all prone to giving interviews  spoke to journalist Sharyn Alfonsi on the CBS program 60 Minutes, one of the most watched news programs in the United States. In the interview, he said he was addressing the Mexican community in the country. Not content with what was broadcast on the show, the president decided to release the recording of the entire interview. Lopez Obrador wanted to make his efforts to regularize Mexican workers known, as this was not included in what was broadcast on the show.

The interview was extensive, but only 17 minutes were broadcast, he explained at his morning press conference on Tuesday. Im not talking about censorship, we greatly respect what they did [on television], they are in charge of their time and strategies, but we need people and especially migrants to be informed. It is very important to us that migrants see this, because I talked about our demand, that their status be regularized, now that the candidates are offering many things in the United States. This is also how we make it known to the people of Mexico.

The president said that Alfonsi had also asked him about his demand that the United States allocate $20 billion each year to help the main origin countries of migrants in Latin America and the Caribbean, something that has not been done since the Alliance for Progress in the time of President Kennedy. He explained: [Sharyn Alfonsi] told me that politicians in the United States think its a lot, and I answered, Dont they think that what they allocate to war is a lot? What we are asking for is a much smaller amount.

Lopez Obradors idea for Americans to be aware of the point of view of the Mexican administration will likely become a recurring theme of his press conferences. The president seems determined to bring to light all aspects of his immigration policy that did not make the final cut of the 60 Minutes interview. And immigration was not the only issue that was discussed. The president also spoke about weapons, arguing it was important that there be a reflection on this topic. Seventy-five percent of the smuggled weapons that enter Mexico are of American origin and half are from Texas, where the governor puts barbed wire fences over the river, he said. In this way, little by little, Lopez Obrador is putting his demands to the U.S. in the public discourse.

This is not the first time that the Mexican president has complained about the U.S. perception of Mexican migrants as drug addicts or criminals. They are honest workers, he has said on more than one occasion. And he has put numbers to his claims, highlighting how Mexican workers contribute to the U.S. economy as they pay taxes even if they are undocumented. According to data from Chancellor Alicia Barcena, Mexican workers annually contribute $340 billion to the U.S. economy, once the remittances they send to their families in Mexico are discounted.

For years, Democrats and Republicans have been trying to win over the Latino vote, as millions of Latinos are eligible to vote in the United States. Republican leader Donald Trump, for example, uses xenophobic rhetoric against migrants  claiming theyre poisoning the blood of our country  yet, he still tries to sway over Latino voters in key areas.

The Republican governor of Texas, Greg Abbott, has also launched numerous attacks against migrants who try to cross the U.S.-Mexico border. He has set up barbed wire to block their passage and passed the countrys toughest anti-migrant law, which considers irregular crossings a crime.

These attacks are not forgotten by Lopez Obrador. Economic integration is a reality. If they close the borders, citizens will pay more for what they consume, he said on Tuesday. In the interview [with 60 Minutes], I gave the example of a vehicle, which on average would be between $10,000 and $15,000 more expensive. When they talk about closing the borders, they are not being rational, it is just a show of propaganda.

The Mexican presidents morning press conferences have become increasingly limited due to campaign rules against election interference, but that has not stopped him from setting his sights on the United States, where he has found a way to get his message across: both to Mexicans in and outside of the country. If one of the White House candidates supports regularizing undocumented Mexican workers, they would have Lopez Obrador as an ally in the effort to win over the migrant vote at the U.S. presidential election.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition








A California police department said it would no longer use Lego heads to obscure suspects faces in social media posts, after the Lego Group requested the department cease the practice, citing intellectual property concerns.

The Lego Group reached out to me on March 19th and respectfully asked us to refrain from using their intellectual property in our social media content, Murrieta Police Department Lt. Jeremy Durrant said in a statement.

Durrant continued, Which of course, we understand and will comply with.

Durrant said the practice of using digitally altered images, including of the trademarked Lego head, has been in effect for several years  especially since 2021, when California passed a law prohibiting law enforcement from releasing photos of suspects for nonviolent crimes, unless specific circumstances exist.

The new law also mandates the removal of suspect mug shots from social media after 14 days, also barring special circumstances.

The Murrieta Police Department explained its practice of obscuring faces in a post on social media on March 18, after it garnered some attention online.

The Murrieta Police Department prides itself in its transparency with the community, but also honors everyones rights & protections as afforded by law; even suspects. In order to share what is happening in Murrieta, we chose to cover the faces of suspects to protect their identity while still aligning with the new law, the post last Monday read.

After receiving the request from the Lego Group last Tuesday, Durrant said the department would consider alternative approaches.

I have no concerns with exploring other options to continue publishing our content in a way that is engaging and interesting to our followers, Durrant said.

A spokesperson for the Lego Group declined to comment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Lego has contacted a Southern California police department, telling them to stop using images of minifigure heads to protect suspects identities after news of the practice recently went viral.

The Lego Group reached out to us and respectfully asked us to refrain from using their intellectual property in our social media content which of course we understand and will comply with, Murrieta Police Department Lt. Jeremy Durrant told Fox News.

We are currently exploring other methods to continue publishing our content in a way that is engaging and interesting to our followers, Durant said.

Suspects are shown with Lego heads covering their faces. (Murrieta Police Department)

A suspect is shown with a Lego head covering their face. (Murrieta Police Department)



A suspect is shown with a Lego head covering their face. (Murrieta Police Department)

A suspect is shown with a Lego head covering their face. (Murrieta Police Department)

A suspect is shown with a Lego head covering their face. (Murrieta Police Department)

A suspect is shown with a Lego head covering their face. (Murrieta Police Department)

A lineup is shown with Lego heads covering the suspects faces. (Murrieta Police Department)

The Police Department began using the images on its social media accounts after California law prohibited them from displaying booking photos of individuals arrested on suspicion of nonviolent crimes unless special circumstances existed.

At the time of that passing the department had an internal discussion about posting the faces of arrestees in general, the Department stated on a Nov. 2023, Facebook post.

More California fast food chains announce changes ahead of minimum wage hike

The Department decided to stop posting nearly all suspect images citing the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in a court of law and the effects a post could have on an individual or their families outside of the criminal proceedings they may be subject to (public shaming).

New California laws that went into effect in January prompted another post from the Police Department, further explaining its practice.

A lineup is shown with Lego heads covering the suspects' faces.

The Murrieta Police Department prides itself in its transparency with the community, but also honors everyones rights & protections as afforded by law; even suspects, the post read.

Why a California police department is replacing suspects faces with Lego heads

The Police Department added, In order to share what is happening in Murrieta, we chose to cover the faces of suspects to protect their identity while still aligning with the new law.

News of the images gained national attention, eventually catching the attention of Lego executives.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
To the editor: Religions are human-made institutions and subject to the same blind spots and failures that show up in secular ones. ( In The Exvangelicals, Sarah McCammon tells the tale of losing her religion , Opinion, March 20)

They all let you down periodically, as do the people who belong to them. American evangelicalism has a tendency toward rigid categories, so losing one's religion might be the beginning of a more meaningful search for God.

To have faith is not the same thing as to have proof. Faith is a journey, and to keep it, one remains curious and grows more comfortable with paradox and mystery. It seems to require a little humility along with critical thinking, oddly enough. Then, of course, there's always love.

And what about all those contacts Jesus made with diverse and marginal members of society? Sounds pretty progressive. If you have trouble believing, enlarge the temple  it was never intended to be American.

Lynn Aldrich, Glendale



..

To the editor: I went to Catholic school for 12 years. I graduated in 1962 and left Catholicism in 1965, and now at 80, I have never looked back or regretted it. It opened a whole amazing world of contentment, philosophy, spirituality, enlightenment and well-being. Just let it go.

Rachel Perumean, Montebello



..

To the editor: I really get so tired of The Times uniformly left-leaning Opinion section that has almost nothing on the other side, including about religion. There was an article by the letters editor ("Grieving without God is one thing. Grieving without Gods people is another," Opinion, March 16) and now we get the piece by Randall Balmer slamming white evangelicals.

Not all of us evangelicals are fans of Trump or rejectors of evolution. (I cant stand Trump.) I dont suppose The Times would consider running an article about those whose lives have benefited by becoming conservative Christians? I would be amazed to see that.

John Wagner, Altadena

..

To the editor: To the letter writer who spoke of leaving the Catholic church at 15 , I have to say that I had much the same experience. There was always something just not right; my connection with the church was severed by a seemingly trivial matter, yet to a young person it was anything but. For years, we were not allowed to eat meat on Fridays  just how many Mrs. Pauls fish sticks can one girl eat? Then suddenly, they had a meeting and it was OK. Really? That was it for me. What else were they making up? I raised my two daughters without the drama of the church. I get blamed for them not being familiar with church customs and vernacular  a propitious trade off.

Cheryl Schwaebe, Cardiff



..

To the editor: I am saddened that others have rejected formal religion, never having a personal relationship with God. As I see it, the Bible lays the foundation for belief in God. When it is read and/or taught it can enlighten your mind and soul to the gifts that are available when you open your heart to receive them. I can attest to the fact that when I asked God into my life I became filled with peace, love and a joy that cannot be explained. I know that I am not alone.

Linda Marshall, Los Angeles

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Images of 20 people have been released by the Metropolitan Police as it searches for witnesses to a shooting almost three years ago.

Detectives have issued pictures of people who were in the area before Alex Ajanaku was shot and killed in Leyton on 1 September 2021.

Mr Ajanaku, who was 18, was killed on the Beaumont Estate.

Det Sgt Fenton Davis said: "We need your help to identify who was responsible for taking Alex's life."

He said: "A reward of up to 20,000 is on offer for information leading to the identification, arrest and prosecution of those responsible for Alex's murder."

He said Mr Ajanaku was at an unlicensed music event on the estate on 31 August and "a large number of people would have been there".

A murder investigation was launched after police were called at about 01:25 BST on 1 September to reports that Mr Ajanaku had been fatally shot.

The Met said most of the event attendees had left, but "a small group remained and were sitting on a bench when the shots were fired".

The force said it wanted to speak to the 20 people pictured as witnesses.

The vehicle believed to have been used in the shooting was a black Kia Sportage, the force said.

It had been stolen from Chingford shortly before midnight on 16 August and was found abandoned and fire damaged in Walthamstow on 3 September.

The Met Police has made four arrests as part of its investigation.

In a previous appeal Mr Ajanaku's mother said: "My life was completely devastated by Alex's murder. I loved him so much and miss him every day.

"I want to appeal to anyone who has any information about what happened or who is responsible for Alex's death to come forward and talk to police."

Anyone with information can call the Met Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hellobbclondon@bbc.co.uk
MIAMI, Okla.  A Miami man who pleaded guilty to the stabbing death of a friend was sentenced to life with no chance of parole on Tuesday.

Oklahoma man enters plea in mans death

Travis Johnson entered a blind plea in November to first-degree murder in the Aug. 23, 2021 death of Johnny Euran, of Miami. Johnson appeared before District Judge Jennifer McAffrey for his sentencing hearing.

Read Eurans autopsy report

Euran was stabbed 16 times and the murder was caught on a neighbors doorbell ring cam. A disagreement over a cell phone preceded the stabbing, court records show.

The autopsy report shows Euran also tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.
Lifetime Isas or Lisas were first introduced in April 2017, as then-chancellor George Osbornes offering to help first-time buyers and future retirees grow a tax-free nest egg in one fell swoop.

It was a clever move, offering help to both young people who needed help to get onto the housing ladder, and offering an alternative to a pension to those saving for the longer-term.

What is a Lifetime Isa and who can open one?

Savers aged 18-39 are able to open a Lifetime Isa, where money can be held as cash or invested in stocks and shares. You can deposit up to 4,000 in each tax year  what you pay in will come out of your 20,000 Isa allowance  and the big incentive is the Government adds a 25pc bonus up to a maximum 1,000 a year. You can carry on saving money until you turn 50.

Money can only be withdrawn either to buy your first home, or to use in retirement after the age of 60. Taking money out for any other reason (other than being diagnosed with a terminal illness) will trigger a withdrawal penalty, which not only removes the government bonus, but some of your own cash, too.

Cash Lisas work in the same way as other cash Isas: youll earn a variable rate of interest that remains tax-free while its held within an Isa.

If youre planning to save money held in a Lisa for a longer period of time  at least five years  an investment account might be more suitable and could see you make bigger returns (although this isnt guaranteed).

Some investment Lisas, such those offered by Nutmeg and Moneybox, have the option to put your money into a ready-made portfolio. This means that the platform selects what you invest in, so you dont have to. Given theres more input from the provider, these accounts can come with more fees. Nutmeg fees, for example, are 0.75pc up to 100,000, with 0.35pc on anything over. Fully managed fund costs are 0.22pc, and theres a market spread fee of 0.4pc-0.9pc.

If you prefer a more DIY approach, providers such as AJ Bell and Hargreaves Lansdown give you the flexibility to choose for yourself.

Lifetime Isa vs pension  which is better for retirement?

Given that the cost of retirement is on the rise, a Lisa can offer a way to save for when youre over the age of 60. It could be used as well as, or instead of a private pension, but there are some key differences to be aware of.

Opening the account

Parents can open pensions for their children, and other people  such as grandparents  can pay into the account. Lisas, on the other hand, can only be opened by the saver, and theyre also the only ones who can make deposits.

For parents or grandparents wanting to help their younger relatives save for the future, they can only give money and assume it will be transferred into the account.

When youll pay tax

The money you pay into a Lisa will have already been taxed (unless youre not a taxpayer). While money is held within the Lisa, any growth will be free from tax. This includes a cash Isas savings interest, which could otherwise be liable for income tax, and a stocks and shares Isas investment growth, which could otherwise trigger capital gains tax and dividend tax.

Tax benefits for pension savings come when you pay in the money, thanks to pension tax relief. However, the funds become taxable when you come to draw down the money.

How does the Lifetime Isa bonus work?

For each 1 you pay into a Lisa, youll get 25p free from the Government. Thats in addition to any savings interest or investment growth.

A pension can be more lucrative, thanks to the tax relief paid on your contributions  this is based on the highest rate of income tax you pay, meaning basic-rate taxpayers get 20pc tax relief, and those who pay higher-rate tax get 40pc. It means contributing 100 to your pension only costs you 80 as a basic-rate taxpayer, but for a higher-rate earner it would only cost you 60 to contribute that amount.

For a basic-rate taxpayer the free money is the same in a Lisa or a pension. But once you become a higher or top-rate taxpayer, a pension will win out.

Employees will benefit even more. Under auto-enrolment rules, employers must contribute at least 3pc to employees pensions  many will pay in more, and match or even exceed your contribution. Whats more, if you pay in via a salary sacrifice scheme, youll also get National Insurance relief, in addition to income tax relief.

What are the disadvantages of Lifetime Isas?

The most that can be paid into your Lisa each year is 5,000, made up of 4,000 from you and 1,000 in government bonuses. At most, this amount can be paid in each year between the ages of 18 and 49, meaning up to 155,000 can be deposited in total. This is not including savings interest or investment growth, which will continue to accumulate while the account is open.

While this is not an insignificant amount, its nothing compared to what you could save with a pension  this savings vehicle could even see you become a pension millionaire.

Pensions can grow over a much longer period of time. Accounts can be opened for children, and paid into even beyond retirement age. While youre still working, and before any withdrawals have been made, you can pay in up to 60,000 a year or up to 100pc of your annual salary  whichever is less.

You have to wait until you buy a house... or turn 60

Your Lifetime Isa savings can be accessed any time after you turn 60, for whatever you like. You can make partial withdrawals, or withdraw it all  although it will fail to be tax-free if you then pay it into a different account.

By contrast, youll need to wait until you reach retirement age to access your pension savings, which is currently 66. Under pension freedom rules, you can access defined contribution pension savings at age 55 (increasing to 57 in April 2028).

Lifetime Isas will be caught for inheritance tax

Lisa savings form part of your estate, and therefore come within the scope of inheritance tax. Pension savings, however, are not considered part of someones estate, so it can be a more tax-efficient option for your heirs.

How to use a Lifetime Isa to buy your first home

If you want to buy your first home, your Lisa savings can be used to go towards purchasing a residential property in Britain with a value up to 450,000.

For couples purchasing their first property together, each person can hold their own Lisa, and pool the money from both accounts to buy the same property.

When youre ready to buy, youll need to ask the Lisa provider to transfer your savings to your solicitor or conveyancer. The property purchase must complete within 90 days of the transfer taking place; if it falls through, the funds should be restored to your account, without any penalty being deducted.

Note that you will not be considered a first-time buyer for the purposes of Lisa rules if youve inherited or partly owned a property in the past, even if the property is not in the UK.

Recommended

'How I bought my first home at 29 without the Bank of Mum and Dad'

Read more

How does the withdrawal penalty work?

If you make a withdrawal from a Lisa for a reason other than buying your first home, when youre over 60, or if you have a terminal illness, then the withdrawal penalty will be applied.

This is 25pc of the amount being withdrawn. This not only removes the 25pc government bonus, but also 6.25pc of your own money.

The penalty was temporarily reduced to 20pc during the pandemic, when large numbers of savers sought to access their savings. This meant only the government bonus was deducted, and there were calls to keep the penalty as it was. However, the original penalty rules were reintroduced in April 2021.

What is the 12-month Lifetime Isa rule?

You have to hold a Lisa for at least a year before you can withdraw the funds to use towards your first home, otherwise youll pay the withdrawal penalty.

If youre looking to buy a home sooner, a different type of savings account would likely suit you more  although you will miss out on the government bonus.

What happens if you pay more than 4,000 into a Lisa?

As Isa providers have to submit savings information to HMRC each year, the taxman will find out if you exceed the deposit limit. If it thinks you paid in more by accident, it will usually get in touch to explain what you need to do to correct the error (by transferring the excess to a different account, for example), and the extra money will lose its tax-free status, so there might be tax to pay on any growth.

If you have more than 4,000 to save, you can either save into a different type of Isa, or a non-Isa savings or investment account.

Some providers will have automatic mechanisms in place to make sure you dont exceed the deposit limit. For example, Nutmeg says any money from direct debit payments exceeding 4,000 will be automatically sent to its Unallocated Cash pot. It wont be invested, but instead held until you give further instructions.

What happened to Help to Buy Isas?

The Help to Buy scheme closed to new entrants on 30 November 2019. You can keep saving into an account if you opened one before this date and it can be used in conjunction with a Lifetime Isa.

However, you wont be able to get the Help to Buy Isa bonus, a maximum of 3,000, if you save the full 12,000 and also use the Lifetime Isa. Overall, the Lifetime Isa is a better account for buying a home.

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.
LINDSAY, Okla. (KFOR)  After a brief lockdown, Lindsay Public School officials posted, the threat has been secured, according to its Facebooks page.

Lindsay Public School Facebooks page alerted parents earlier on Tuesday, We are currently under a low security lock down with heavy police presence. For the safety of students and staff please do not check your student out at this time. Thank you for your understanding and we will update with more information as soon as we can.

Two cats safe after apartment fire erupts in Tulsa

Shortly after the alert was sent, school officials provided the families with quick relief stating, The threat has been secured. School will be released at regular time. Thank you for your patience during this time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
The Lithuanian Parliament has approved amendments to the state procurement law, allowing the purchase and transfer of drones with Chinese-made components to Ukraine, Lrytas.lt reported on March 26.

Read also: Lithuania delivers 155mm artillery ammunition to Ukraine

Organizations crucial for security are currently unable to procure goods from manufacturers or controlling entities registered in China, as they are considered unreliable, even if these goods are solely used for testing or provided as support to foreign countries.



After discussion, the bill received support from 75 parliamentarians, with two abstentions, and no votes against it.

After minor amendments, Parliament Economic Committee unanimously approved the bill, as reported by the committees chairman, Kazis Starkavicius, who presented the conclusion.

Read also: Lithuanian FM sounds alarm, says lack of Western military aid could hand Putin 'victories'

Organizations now will be able to provide the drones purchased with Chinese components to support Ukraine.

Lithuanias aid to Ukraine

Read also: Lithuania to train 3,500 Ukrainian troops in 2024

The Lithuanian government allocated 35 million euros for the purchase of ammunition for Ukraine as part of the Czech initiative on March 20.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda stated on March 13 that Western countries should discuss the idea of sending military personnel to Ukraine and stop drawing red lines regarding aid to Kyiv.

Lithuania delivered another batch of 155mm artillery ammunition to Ukraine as military aid for the countrys defense forces on March 7.

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
For the United States to criticize or sanction the government of Venezuela is a common occurrence. But when the European Union and the main left-wing governments of South America  Brazil and Colombia  join in protest almost on the same day, its proof that the administration of Nicolas Maduro has crossed a line, yet another one. That is what happened on Tuesday, after the Chavista regime excluded the candidacy of Corina Yoris, the main opposition groups plan B for the presidential elections scheduled for July 28.

After a tense and exhausting Monday, Venezuelan authorities announced that Yoris was unable to complete the process due to a failure on the electoral authoritys webpage. The 80-year-old academic had been selected by the coalition of opposing political parties, the Unitary Platform, in response to a controversial disqualification of the opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. The fact that this replacement candidate was also unable to register evidenced how the simple possibility of competing in the elections has become an obstacle course for the Venezuelan opposition. The international reaction was practically unanimous, undoing the recent diplomatic progress that the Maduro government had achieved.

Although Yoris was prevented from registering, the Unitary Platform said that it was eventually able to provisionally register someone else thanks to an extension granted by the government. This third candidate is the career diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who could in theory be replaced later, when a candidate that all members of the coalition can agree upon has been found. The deadline for doing so is April 20, and in the meantime, the small concession also buys time for Maduro following the wave of global criticism.

In Brazil, the government of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Tuesday expressed concern about the veto of Yoris candidacy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, in a note with very measured language, that the candidate of the Unitary Platform, a member of the opposition who is not weighed down by judicial decisions, was prevented from registering, which is not compatible with the Barbados agreements that laid the foundation for the elections. This criticism, the first issued by the Brazilian government against the Venezuela regime in connection with the upcoming elections, comes a few months after President Lula welcomed Maduro in Brasilia in an effort to break years of diplomatic isolation.

The first rebuke came from the European Union. In response to a query from the Spanish news agency EFE, its Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Peter Stanos, made the EU position clear. The European Union is deeply concerned and regrets the irregular and opaque process that has prevented some parties from registering their presidential candidates.

Until now, Brazil has preferred to act behind the scenes to guide an electoral process with democratic guarantees. Lula himself avoided criticizing Machados disqualification, going so far as to say that she had to stop complaining and appoint a replacement, which she did. But now that the replacement has also been vetoed, Brazil has made its discontent public. The Brazilian statement adds that the authorities have not given any official explanation for preventing Yoris from registering after she was named the substitute for the disqualified Maria Corina Machado, who overwhelmingly won the opposition primaries. The statement also points out that 11 opposition candidates are still in the race and, in a nod to Chavismo, the note ends with a criticism of the sanctions against Venezuela.

Something similar happened in Colombia, where the Foreign Ministry stated in a release that it reiterates its absolute respect for the sovereignty and autonomy of the Venezuelan people, but expresses its concern about the recent events that occurred on the occasion of the registration of some presidential candidates, particularly regarding the difficulties faced by majority sectors of the opposition. Like Brazil, authorities in Colombia underscored the importance of the Barbados agreements.

The Petro administration has been extremely cautious regarding the internal situation in Venezuela, with a caution that borders on contradiction: Petro has insistently criticized the disqualifications of officials and candidates in different countries, yet did not speak out in the case of Machado. Colombias reaction this week triggered a prompt response from the Venezuelan Foreign Minister, Yvan Gil, on social media. The Colombian Foreign Ministry has taken a false step and committed an act of gross interference in matters that only concern Venezuelans.

Gil reacted in the same way to the criticism coming from other parts of the world. The European Union, the same one that supported [self-proclaimed interim president Juan] Guaido's farce, the one that disrespected our institutions and violated all the principles of international law by following Washingtons foreign policy, is sinking again into the mud of interventionism, he said. As for Brazils remarks, Gil said that the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela repudiates the gray and interfering statement, drafted by officials of the Brazilian Foreign Ministry, which appears to have been dictated by the U.S. Department of State.

Similar positions have been adopted elsewhere in Latin America by countries such as Peru, Costa Rica and Ecuador. The Foreign Minister of Uruguay, Omar Paganini, said that Venezuela is consolidating itself as a dictatorship and that the countrys electoral process has been completely distorted. Even more notably, Chiles left-wing president, Gabriel Boric, on Thursday condemned the arbitrary detention of political representatives of the Venezuelan opposition, in reference to the judicial measures taken against significant members of Machados party.

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BALTIMORE (WJW)- The water search will resume this morning for the six victims of Baltimores tragic Francis Scott Key bridge collapse. All six people are now presumed dead.

Search crews were scheduled to start looking for the victims again at 6 a.m. on Wednesday. Tuesday night the search was called off when conditions became too dangerous for divers.

Arnold Schwarzenegger released from Cleveland Clinic

Officials said the bridge collapse, caused by a cargo ship that happened early Tuesday morning, appears to be an accident. They report a power issue on the ship may be to blame as it lost power moments before it struck the bridge.

This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows a view of the Francis Scott Key Bridge that was struck by a container ship in Baltimore, Md., on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The container ship lost power and rammed into the major bridge causing the span to buckle into the river below. (Maxaar Technologies via AP)

A container ship rests against wreckage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge as night falls on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, as seen from Sparrows Point, Md. The ship rammed into the major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to collapse in a matter of seconds and creating a terrifying scene as several vehicles plunged into the chilly river below. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

A Coast Guard cutter passes a cargo ship that is stuck under the part of the structure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after the ship his the bridge Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Baltimore, Md. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

The National Transportation Safety Board chair said they are in contact with officials in Singapore  where the vessel is from. Personnel from the country will be on the scene Wednesday.

There was a mayday warning call over the radio that the ship lost steering capabilities and was headed toward the bridge. Within 90 seconds police officers responded and managed to stop vehicle traffic over the bridge in both directions. An officer was about to drive onto the bridge to alert a construction crew but it was too late, the vessel smashed into the pillar. Eight people from that crew who were filling potholes went into the water. Two of them survived.

Watch: Bystander films Baltimore bridge collapse

Many are now concerned about the economic impact on the area and the entire country. The Port of Baltimore is the ninth busiest port in the country, handling massive shipments of cars and farming supplies as well as serving as a terminal for major cruise lines.

President Biden said the federal government will help fund the rebuilding process.

The Transportation Secretary has promised support to help the flow of goods.

Our Maritime Administration will help with Port Harbor and supply chain operations, said Pete Buttigieg. Our Federal Highway Administration will assist when it comes to the bridge itself, and any ways that we can help ease roadway congestion.

With ship traffic in and out of the port of Baltimore suspended indefinitely, cargo companies are now trying to figure out how to reroute hundreds of vessels.

As for the victims, they are from Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico. Many of them leave behind spouses and children. Their coworkers said the crew was on a break at the time and some were sitting in their trucks when the bridge was hit.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Some local Catholic schools are in discussions with the Buffalo Catholic Diocese about potentially buying their school buildings.

Any proceeds from the sale of their buildings would go to settle sexual abuse lawsuits filed under the Child Victims Act.

The four schools that are part of these ongoing talks are Bishop Timon High School in South Buffalo; Cardinal OHara High School in the Town of Tonawanda; Notre Dame High School in Batavia and St. Marys High School in Lancaster.

According to a spokesperson from the Diocese, these schools are only on the Catholic schools part of the discussions because the Diocese owns their buildings and they are leased by the respective schools.

The schools in their leases have a provision to buy their building.

If that were to happen, the Diocese says the buildings would be put up for auction and proceeds from the sale would go to the award to settle sexual abuse lawsuits filed against the Diocese under the Child Victims Act.

The Diocese remains in bankruptcy court and has been in the process of listing and selling church properties, such as the Catholic Center.

When we first took over that building, the Diocese had about 290 employees in that building. We currently have 88, we have a lot of empty space, were not utilizing the building to the capacity that we once did because more of our ministries have moved out to the family of parishes, said Richard Suchan, the COO of Diocese of Buffalo.

The Diocese has also been criticized in recent months for announcing the closure of several local parishes.

I know this is challenging, this is not want any of us wanted, but in the midst of all of this loss, theres an opportunity for spiritual growth and for us to be better as we go forward, said Father Bryan Zielenieski of the Diocese of Buffalo.

The last meeting on the possibility of some local catholic schools buying their buildings was two weeks ago, and it was led by Suchan. As part of its bankruptcy case, the Diocese has been taking a look at all its properties and assessing their value.

The Diocese says the four schools mentioned all have long-term leases and theres nothing imminent on those agreements. None of the schools have decided whether to buy their buildings and if that were to happen, they would be independent Catholic schools in the Diocese.

Latest Local News

Jeff Preval is an award-winning anchor and reporter who joined the News 4 team in December 2021. See more of his work here.

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The Francis Scott Key Bridge could rejoin Baltimores skyline in as little as two years or as many as 15, with some experts eyeing a number in between.

The Key Bridge crossed the Patapsco River in Baltimores outer harbor until early Tuesday morning, when a cargo vessel struck the bridge and sent it into the frigid waters below. As of Wednesday, authorities are still searching for four missing construction workers who are presumed dead; two bodies were recovered Wednesday.

While authorities emphasized the need to focus on the recovery operation, questions have swirled about the rebuild of the Key Bridge  especially after President Joe Biden, a Democrat, said Tuesday that the federal government would pay the entire cost of reconstructing the bridge.

Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation Paul J. Wiedefeld said at a news conference Wednesday evening that the state has applied for available federal dollars.

We intend to receive some additional federal dollars very quickly to start that process and then we will come up with a design for the replacement of that bridge as quickly as possible to get the port back up and the community back up and running, Wiedefeld said.

But even with promised federal money, there are many factors that need to be considered before construction of any bridge can begin, said Benjamin W. Schafer, a structural engineer who specializes in steel structures and is an engineering professor at the Johns Hopkins University, naming securing funding, deciding on a visual design, selecting materials and working out engineering queries as steps in the process.

In the case of the Key Bridge collapse, clearing the river of debris will also be an obstacle. All said and done, Schafer estimated a rebuild could take as long as a decade or more.

The bridge originally, it seems like it was about five years from breaking ground to opening up. In 1980, when the Tampa [Bay] Sunshine Skyway bridge had a strike and was destroyed, and then rebuilt with a new cable-stayed bridge, that was seven years. I would consider those lower bounds, he said. I think were looking at seven-plus, I would guess 10 to 15 years before  I know that sounds crazy  but before we look back over and we see a bridge jumping over the harbor.

At an online event hosted by Hopkins Wednesday morning, Schafer said hes lived through quite a few civil infrastructure projects, and theyre rarely less than 10 years, adding that the price tags never seem to be out of the hundreds of millions these days.

Although I dont think the transportation network will come back quickly, we can get the port back up, Schafer said.

Schafer added that the politics of getting to the moment of building the bridge can run on much longer than the actual building of it, a claim already hinted at by state and federal officials.

A special thanks to President Biden who made it very very clear that he will do everything in his power to make sure that we get the help we need to deal with this challenge, said Sen. Ben Cardin, a Democrat, at a Tuesday news conference. But as Secretary [Pete] Buttigieg told us in our briefings, hes going to need the help of Congress to get things done.

Buttigieg, the federal secretary of transportation, said on Tuesday his department stands ready to approve emergency funding as soon as we receive that request.

This is no ordinary bridge. This is one of the cathedrals of American infrastructure, Buttigieg said. It has been part of the skyline of this region for longer than many of us have been alive. So the path to normalcy will not be easy, it will not be quick, it will not be inexpensive, but we will rebuild together.

In a White House briefing Wednesday, Buttigieg did not answer questions about rough cost estimates or timelines for rebuilding the bridge but reiterated the administrations vow to support it.

He said he believed the Maryland Department of Transportation already submitted an emergency relief request, which would provide immediate access to an account that has roughly $950 million available. Still, that account has a long list of needs and projects already lined up for it, so congressional approval for more funds may be needed, he said. Congress may also need to approve the full federal financing that Biden referenced.

Congress moving quickly on a rebuild isnt out of the question, though Biden often finds himself at odds with the thin Republican majority in the U.S. House. In 2007, the I-35W bridge collapsed in Minneapolis, killing 13 and injuring nearly 150 people. Just a few days later, Congress approved a quarter of a billion dollars to go towards rebuilding the bridge.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat, said in an interview that access to the emergency relief would require Maryland to put 10% toward the rebuild and federal lawmakers could act to avoid that. Other funding could come from the shipping company if theyre eventually found liable, he said.

I will do everything possible to secure the necessary federal resources to clear the channel and reopen the port and rebuild the bridge, Van Hollen said.

From Annapolis, Senate President Bill Ferguson, a Democrat representing Baltimore City, said he was very pleased Biden committed federal dollars to the reconstruction efforts.

Moving heaven and earth to rebuild, I think, is essential, Ferguson said. Even if we have federal support for a rebuild, all of these other costs and collateral impacts of this incident are probably not going to go for days, weeks, months, years.

Ferguson said there will be an investigation into how the collision occurred, followed by salvaging efforts. Rebuilding cant start until after that.

I think when we rebuild, we should rebuild for the 22nd century, Ferguson said. This was a 50-year-old bridge. We should assume that when we rebuild, its rebuilding for the next 50 to 75 years.

Natalie M. Scala, an associate professor at Towson University who directs the graduate program in supply chain management, said any prudent bridge discussion should include thinking about how the world will change over the next century, especially concerning how sea level rise could affect the port.

If we are smart about this, we are going to ask, How does this bridge withstand climate change?' Scala said. When [the Key Bridge] was built, ships were not this large. What kind of engineering can be done to support the kind of shipping we do now? If we take blueprints from previous bridges and open them up, were not really solving the question of how we got here in the first place.

Abieyuwa Aghayere, an engineering professor at Drexel University who teaches a course dedicated to finding out why certain structures fail, said safety, cost and sustainability are major factors considered in the construction of bridges, adding that rebuilds must aim to remove the vulnerability that may have been there.

You dont want to repeat the same mistakes, he said.

But even with safety top of mind, Aghayere thinks the rebuild could be accomplished quickly, especially if promised federal funds come through.

Because of the importance of 695  I can see it being done within one to two years, Aghayere said, adding that it can be difficult to estimate. If all hands are on deck, I think it can be done.

Cable-stayed bridges are now popular and a style that might work in the area where the Key Bridge collapsed, Aghayere said, adding that having bridge supports spaced farther away from each other would allow for a wider opening for ships to navigate.

A newly built Key Bridge might also likely include sensors to monitor its structural health, like those implemented on Delawares Indian River Inlet bridge completed in 2012, said Nii Attoh-Okine, the civil and environmental engineering chair at the University of Maryland.

Attoh-Okine said more information, like the number of vehicles the bridge will have to accommodate and what materials and designs will be used, is necessary to estimate exactly how long a rebuild will take, but suggested it will be years.

This is a very, very important bridge, not only for Baltimore, not only for Maryland, but for the eastern corridor, he said. Its part of the supply chain.

Rachel Sangree, an associate teaching professor at Hopkins in the engineering department and a former bridge inspector, noted that a future bridge will likely need to provide a route for handling hazardous materials, which cant travel through tunnels, as the former bridge did.

The Key Bridge was very, very tall, so whatever is selected, it will have to accommodate not only these existing sizes of the shipping vessels, but also larger sizes, because we dont want to design exactly for what were seeing right now, Sangree said. We always need to be thinking ahead.

Schafer speculated there will be urgency to clear the site and start rebuilding, and said there will undoubtedly be discussions about bridge protection structures. The Key Bridge was one of the citys skyline landmarks, which also comes with its own set of design priorities, he said.

It means something to Baltimoreans, and to the region, Schafer said. And so I dont think a simple, utilitarian bridge would necessarily be built back. I think theyll think about what theyre creating, and its aesthetics.

Baltimore Sun reporters Hannah Gaskill, Sam Janesch, Jonathan M. Pitts and Dillon Mullan contributed to this story.
A 16-year-old girl who died more than a week after a violent fight at her high school in South Los Angeles suffered accidental blunt force trauma to her head, a medical official said Tuesday.

Cellphone video of the fight at Manual Arts High School on March 5 shows Shaylee Mejia hitting her head against a bathroom stall and falling.

The girls mother, Maria Juarez, said her daughter complained of a headache for several days after the fight but continued to attend school.

Shaylee Mejia, 16, is seen dressed up on the day she attended a party and later became hospitalized on March 9, 2024. (Maria Juarez)

Shaylee Mejia and another girl seen fighting in a school bathroom at Manual Arts High School. Photo is blurred to protect minors identities. (Maria Juarez)

Shaylee Mejia and another girl seen fighting in a school bathroom at Manual Arts High School. Photo is blurred to protect minors identities. (Maria Juarez)

Shaylee Mejia seen in a personal photo.

Maria Juarez and her daughter Shaylee Mejia seen in a family photo.

Later that week, Shaylee fainted at a party and was rushed to a hospital by a friend.

Shaylee never regained consciousness and was pronounced dead six days later.

On Tuesday, a County of Los Angeles Medical Examiners initial report described the March 15 death as accidental and resulting from Sequelae of blunt head trauma.

No further notes were found on the report.

Juarez said last week that she believes her daughter died as a result of the bathroom fight.

She said Shaylee began coming home with bruises all over her body, presumably from fights, just months after enrolling at the school.

Juarez said she told the school about the fights in which she claimed her daughter was bullied but officials did nothing.

SoCal residents stole over $2.5 million in Target gift cards

The Los Angeles Unified School District has not commented on the matter. Shaylees family said they hired an attorney and are considering legal action.

The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the incidents.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Im going to jail: Georgia man travels to Hillsborough County, kills womans dog after threatening to kill her, complaint says

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A Georgia man was indicted after he traveled from Atlanta to Hillsborough County and killed a womans dog after threatening to kill her, according to prosecutors from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida.

Timothy Crawford, 52, allegedly left Atlanta on Dec. 7 and headed toward the womans home on Carden Drive in Odessa, prosecutors said. Crawford broke into the womans home with a pistol and a stun gun and waited for her to return.

Crawford and the woman knew each other.

When the woman got home, Crawford allegedly used the stun gun on the woman in addition to punching and kicking her, according to prosecutors. He reportedly told her he was going to kill her and her children.

The woman used a dumbbell to defend herself and escape from the home, prosecutors said. Crawford shot and killed the womans Maltese before he left the home.

A neighbor called 911 and said she heard the woman screaming. Crawford was taken into custody by the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office after he later returned to the home. In his truck, officers found an empty 750ml bottle of vodka and a partially empty larger bottle on the rear floor, according to a criminal complaint.

Several weapons were found around the home and his truck, along with a bloody cellphone.

The woman had severe injuries, including bruising, stun-gun burns and several broken bones, according to prosecutors.

Crawford reportedly admitted to breaking into the home, using a taser on her and killing her dog, prosecutors said. Before the attack, Crawford searched do you get the death penalty if you kill a woman.

Prosecutors allege that Crawford entered the state of Florida between 7 a.m. and 4:49 p.m. based on surveillance video. He was supposed to attend a work-related barbecue in Tampa the following day, and had checked into a hotel in Lutz hours before the attack, according to the criminal complaint.

After the attack, Crawford called his ex-wife and said he attacked the woman.

I attacked [the woman], he reportedly said. I love you and the kids. Im going to jail.

Crawford admitted to the attack in recorded phone calls to his ex-wife from the detention center, according to the complaint. When she asked how he got inside the womans home, he said he couldnt talk about it because the call was being recorded.

During one of the calls, Crawford told his ex-wife, I planned it to a degree, the criminal complaint states.

Crawford was indicted on charges of interstate domestic violence, discharge of a firearm during and in the commission of a crime of violence, and interstate stalking. If convicted, Crawford faces a minimum of 10 years in federal prison.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. (PIX11)  A gunman shot a machete-wielding man in the chest during an apparent road rage incident on Staten Island Wednesday morning, police and law enforcement sources said.

The machete holder, 45, confronted the man near Vineland and Grantwood avenues at around 9:30 a.m., according to the NYPD. The man, 50, then shot the machete holder in the chest, sending him to the hospital in critical condition, police said.

The shooter remained at the scene and charges were pending, police said. The incident drew a large police response.

Authorities believe the two men were involved in a road rage incident that sparked the violent encounter, according to police sources.

6 people slashed inside of Queens school: NYPD

Witnesses said the driver of an SUV hopped out and was armed with a machete that he allegedly used to smash a red SUVs passenger side window.

The red SUV driver got out, armed with a gun, and shot the machete-wielding man once in the chest, according to witnesses.

I heard somebody scream, so I looked out the window, and then I saw a man lying in the street and another guy standing over him with a firearm in his hand, said Dean, a Staten Island resident.

Dean said he is grateful no one else was hurt.

I think its terrible, scary, Dean said. I was coming out, my daughters ready to go to school. They miss, theyre not too accurate with their shooting, and an innocent bystanders can get hit. Theres got to be consequences for actions like this.

Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

Mira Wassef is a digital reporter who has covered news and sports in the New York City area for more than a decade. She joined PIX11 News in 2022. See more of her work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
On Tuesday, the largest bridge in Baltimore collapsed in a matter of seconds after being hit by a container ship. A group of maintenance workers were working on the bridge at the time of the impact. The ship  named Dali  left the port, but minutes later, the crew informed port authorities that there were problems with the ships propulsion system and that the bridge was in their path, which allowed authorities to cut off road traffic before the crash.

A nearby webcam broadcast the collision live. The ship enters into view at 1:23 a.m. The electrical and propulsion problems that the crew had warned about can be observed, giving insight into what happened moments before the collision.

The Dali  which was 48 meters wide and almost 300 meters long  deviated from its course moments before passing under the structure. The span of the bridge, that is, the distance between the pillars that support the metal construction, was about 366 meters. The clearance  the distance between the water and the bottom point of the bridge  exceeds 56 meters, so there was more than enough space for a ship of the Dalis dimensions to pass through.

The ships collision with one of the bridges pillars was enough to make a portion of the bridge collapse. The Dali is a vessel that can transport up to 10,000 containers. An initial estimate from an engineer, who spoke to Spains EFE news agency, suggested that there may have been 150,000 tons in motion  the equivalent of 1,500 buses  traveling at around 9 miles per hour.

Baltimore woke up to images of its most iconic bridge severed in half and to the news that emergency services had rescued two people and were searching for another seven missing people (a figure that would later be reduced to six, who are presumed dead). The 820-meter span of the four-lane bridge, which is used by 31,000 vehicles per day, sunk into the Patapsco River.

The port of Baltimore is the 16th largest in the United States by activity, where $74 billion-worth of goods entered the country last year. While it is not one of the largest on the East Coast  it receives cargo that is 10 times smaller than the port of New York  it is, however, the American leader in handling cargoes of various types of products, such as carloads (about 750,000 vehicles passed through the port in 2023), salt and sugar. It is also the second-largest port in the U.S. for coal exports.

Creditos With reporting by Jose A. Alvarez

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French President Emmanuel Macron has infuriated US officials with his statements about the possible deployment of foreign troops to Ukraine, as they fear such a move could lead to a clash with Russia.

Source: Bloomberg, citing a source familiar with the discussions between the allies, as reported by European Pravda.

Details: Macron's hints were made to get Russian ruler Vladimir Putin thinking, the source said, but officials familiar with NATO discussions on Ukraine said the words could have had the opposite effect.

Other officials, who spoke to Bloomberg on condition of anonymity, said Macron's comments were also not very smart from an operational security perspective, as the news agency noted that several countries already have some troops covertly stationed in Ukraine.

The agency's source said that some EU prime ministers expect Macron to show leadership, and many welcome his tough stance on Russia.

At the same time, Bloomberg notes that critics of the French president say "hes more talk than action".

In this context, the agency cites the example of the Czech initiative to purchase ammunition for Ukraine from countries outside the EU. Last month, Macron said he supported the Czech initiative, but France has not yet announced its financial contribution to it.

Despite the controversy surrounding his remarks about the possible deployment of Western troops to Ukraine, Macron refused to back down, insisting that his statements were well thought through but also stressing that France would not follow the "logic of escalation" in its relations with Moscow.

Subsequently, commenting on the idea he raised, Macron stressed that if such a scenario were to materialise, French forces would not go on the offensive against Russia.

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Gabriel Attal (left), France's youngest-ever prime minister, has been touted as a potential presidential contender when Emmanuel Macron bows out in 2027 - LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP via Getty Images

Emmanuel Macron is seeking to emulate Westminsters Prime Ministers Questions in a move opponents say is designed to raise the profile of his new government leader.

Currently, the French parliament has two questions to the government sessions in which MPs grill ministers who answer depending on the dossier.

From April 3 parliament will test-drive a different format for five weeks in which 34-year-old Gabriel Attal, Frances youngest-ever prime minister, will answer 10 questions from each group in the National Assembly once a week in a format inspired by the House of Commons in the United Kingdom, according to Le Monde.

The newspaper cited a source close to Yael Braun-Pivet, the parliamentary speaker, as saying the shake-up was designed to boost interest in the little-watched questions to the government session.

At present the French parliament has two 'questions to the government' sessions in which MPs grill ministers who answer depending on the dossier - EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP via Getty Images

A gifted speaker and debater, Mr Attal has reportedly been tasked with being a de facto opposite number to Jordan Bardella, the hard-Right National Rallys candidate for the European Parliament elections, whose party is ahead in the polls.

Mr Attal, who was previously education minister, has also been touted as a potential presidential contender when Mr Macron bows out in 2027 after two successive terms, the maximum in France.

Opposition groups slammed the changes, with Left-wing parties and Greens saying it appeared tailor-made to raise his profile.

Cyrielle Chatelain, the president of the Green group, said: I fear that it will end up as a kind of Attal show.

Jean-Jacques Urvoas, the former Socialist justice minister, now a professor of law at the University of Brest, warned: This system puts the prime minister in the limelight and wipes out the ministers.

Mr Attal is a gifted speaker and debater - EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP via Getty Images

Mr Macrons centrist and centre-Right allies also expressed reservations.

Jean-Paul Mattei, the president of the centrist MoDem group, said it reflected a very vertical vision of power and limits the ability of MPs to question ministers who are often better placed to answer technical questions.

Even if hes brilliant, Gabriel Attal wont be able to answer everything, said Mr Mattei.

Criticism for the new questioning has also come from within Mr Macrons own party, with Marc Ferracci, the vice president of the Renaissance group, saying: Im not sure its the prime ministers role to answer the most technical questions.

Sylvain Maillard, the president of the Renaissance group, added: The idea is for this to be a very political session. If MPs use it to ask extremely technical questions, it wont be of any use.

A definitive format for the new version of the questions to the government sessions is due to be decided in early July.

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Just days after Emmanuel Macron was pictured in a T-shirt hitting a punch bag in a gym, photos have emerged of him posing in smart shoes and a pristine white shirt in the Amazonian jungle.

The 46-year-old kept up appearances on the first visit to Brazil by a French president in 11 years.

It came after spats with Jair Bolsonaro, the former president, over environmental destruction and insults directed at Mr Macrons wife, Brigitte.

After stopping in nearby French Guiana, where he kept his suit and tie on despite sweltering conditions, Mr Macron kicked off the visit in Belem with the launch of a $1.1 billion Amazonian green investment plan alongside Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, his Brazilian counterpart.

Mr Macron then ditched his jacket and tie to take a boat to the jungle island of Combu with Mr da Silva, where they met indigenous leaders.

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva leads Emmanuel Macron through the jungle - Ueslei Marcelino/Reuters

Mr Macron awarded Raoni Metuktire, the tribal chief, the Legion of Honour  the highest French distinction  for his role as an international figure in the fight for the preservation of the Amazon rainforest and the culture of indigenous peoples.

Mr Metuktire left his home in the Amazon more than 30 years ago, travelling the world to warn of the threats posed by the destruction of the rainforest. He has become a global figurehead in the fight to raise awareness of climate change.

At one point the venerable chief, who is thought to be 90, grabbed the microphone to welcome Mr da Silva and Mr Macron, saying he saw them as his father and son and urging them to back his bid to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

Emmanuel Macron presented Raoni Metuktire with the Legion of Honour - Ueslei Marcelino/Reuters

Tuesdays announcement proposes the creation of a carbon market, intended to reward countries that invest in natural carbon sinks such as the Amazon rainforest.

The worlds largest tropical forest plays a key role in the fight against climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide emissions.

After Mr da Silvas government stepped up environmental policing of the Amazon, deforestation halved last year after it had been ramped up by Mr Bolsonaro.

The agreement also includes support for indigenous people and local Amazon communities, which have an essential role in protecting biodiversity through their traditional knowledge and forest management practices.

Emmanuel Macron and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wore white shirts for their trip to the jungle island of Combu - Emmanuel Macron/X

France and Brazil are working together to manufacture four conventionally powered submarines, the third of which will be launched on Wednesday by both leaders at the Itaguai naval base near Rio de Janeiro.

Yet despite the bonhomie they do not see eye-to-eye on various issues, such as the long-stalled free trade agreement between the EU and South Americas Mercosur bloc, which has recently run into fierce resistance from European farmers.

In January, Mr Macron said France opposed the deal because it doesnt make Mercosur farmers and companies abide by the same rules as ours.

Another bone of contention is the war in Ukraine. While Mr Macron has ratcheted up the rhetoric supporting Volodymyr Zelensky, Mr da Silva, the self-styled champion of the global South, has insisted Kyiv and Moscow share responsibility over the conflict and refused to take a stand against Russia.

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Last November, at the end of an unrelated work trip to Doha, I found myself in a 4-by-4 driving through the pre-dawn Qatari desert, on my way to encounter a monumental sculpture by the American artist Richard Serra, who died earlier this week, from pneumonia, at the age of 85. Fitting in this art pilgrimage before my flight home involved getting up in the middle of the night, and I wasnt sure beforehand if the effort would be worth it. Of course it was, many times over, as my experience of Serras massive metal sculptures should have taught me. The man was a magician.

Set within a nature reserve in western Qatar, East-West/West-East (2014) consists of four colossal steel plates, arranged irregularly in a line for around half a mile, and rising to almost 55ft in height, so that their tops are level with each other, as well as the gypsum plateaus on either side. Initially, they look like ancient stelae, or upright gravestones, each with the silhouette of a skyscraper, a little like those extraordinary memorial obelisks to be found in the city of Aksum in Ethiopia. In the half-light, each had the quality of an impenetrably black portal leading to the underworld, or another dimension.

From the front, they appear ominous and brooding and impossibly heavy (how, you wonder, can they stand so tall?); if one toppled over, youd be squashed in an instant, like a swatted fly. Seen, though, from the side, where the plates are only inches thick, they momentarily seem  abracadabra!  to vanish.

Richard Serra's East-West/West-East (2014), set within a nature reserve in Qatar - Alamy

Beholding this effect, which is so characteristic of the sculptors work, I was reminded of walking with Serra, in 2008, through the field (as he described it) of five similarly immense and rectangular steel plates installed, at 100ft intervals, along the central axis of the Grand Palais exhibition hall in Paris. This is where, as a young artist during the Sixties, accompanied by his friend, the American composer Philip Glass, hed hung out at La Coupole, and stared, groupie-like, at Alberto Giacometti when he turned up, late at night, with plaster dust still in his hair. (Compared with the Grand Palais, Serra told me, Tate Moderns Turbine Hall, which itself has been the site of various spectacular sculptural commissions over the years  although never, to the shame of the gallerys managers, anything by him  was a little banal.)

Emanating intensity, his grey-blue eyes blazing like a gas-burners flame, he pointed out various aspects of Promenade (as the Parisian piece was titled, typically inviting the viewer to walk around it to experience it in full)  noting, for instance, that the plates felt weightless and seemed to contain a sense of uplift. As we lingered by the side of one of them, it suddenly appeared like nothing but a dark line extending upwards in space, and he looked at me with delight: Seventy-five tonnes: gone!

Richard Serra's Cinq elements, at the Grand Palais Paris Promenade in 2008

This is what Serra, who will be remembered for radically extending post-war sculptures language of form, as he put it, could do: manipulate materials even as obdurate as construction-grade weathered steel, so that, transformed, they acquired counter-intuitive properties, such as softness, suppleness, even an impression of weightlessness. They provoked in the viewer a sensation of queasiness and awe, by distorting their sense of the surrounding space.

This will be familiar to anyone who has experienced his masterpiece, The Matter of Time (1994-2005), at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (a series of eight complex sculptural forms, together weighing more than a thousand tonnes, which visitors can enter and walk around, if they dare, like Theseus passing into the labyrinth); or Fulcrum (1987), a 56ft-high cluster of five pieces of steel seemingly propped together outside Londons Liverpool Street railway station, like a pile of rusty kindling left by a giant robot.

Richard Serra's exhibition The Matter of Time, at the Guggenheim Bilbao Museum, 2005 - Getty

For commuters scurrying past, theres always the nagging, irrational concern that the whole thing might collapse. Inspired by a minaret, a similar piece, 7 (2011), this time 80ft tall, and installed outside Dohas Museum of Islamic Art, is likewise in dialogue with its surroundings  here, the glittering high-rises across the bay.

Compared with Serras abstract work, which radiates authority, so much contemporary public art seems like frippery  such as some of the sculptures selected recently to occupy the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square, or The Meeting Place, that trite, 30ft-high bronze oddity representing an embracing couple inside St Pancras. Usually, a piece by Serra appears simultaneously industrial (many of his elliptical sculptures evoke the hulls of tankers, which may reflect an inspirational childhood memory of a ship being launched) and primeval, timeless, like a standing stone.

Richard Serra, in front of his piece Tilted Arc, New York, 1985 - Getty

For his installation in Qatar, though, Serra left behind the city, and embraced the wilderness. The magnitude of his work only increased. As a coral glow appeared and the sun began to emerge above the horizon  first slowly, then swiftly  I scrambled up one of those plateaus to watch the celestial drama.

What I most recall is how the sun, while still a lazily rising, low-lying pinkish-red orb, seemed to be somehow tethered to Serras slabs, moving in relation to them. This was, in visual form, the music of the spheres; those blocks could have been the bars of Apollos xylophone, perhaps. It requires immensity of imagination  and chutzpah  to harness, even if only illusorily, the cosmic power of our nearest star. I dont think youre going to see the likes of it again, Serra proudly told me in Paris, referring to Promenade. The same could be said of him.



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A majority of Americans now disapprove of Israels war against Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, with support dropping from 50 percent in November to 36 percent this month, according to a new Gallup poll.

The number who disapprove increased from 45 percent in November to 55 percent in March. About 9 percent of respondents in the latest Gallup poll have no opinion on the issue.

But approval of Israels war is divided along party lines, with 64 percent of Republicans supporting the military action in Gaza, compared to just 18 percent of Democrats.

Still, both Democrats and the GOP saw declining support from November, when 71 percent of Republicans and 36 percent of Democrats supported Israels war.

Among independents, support for Israels military action in Gaza dropped from 47 percent to 29 percent in the same time frame.

Protests calling for a cease-fire and to protect Palestinian lives have become commonplace across the U.S., while others say Israel has a right to defend itself against Hamas, which invaded on Oct. 7, killing more than 1,100 people and taking roughly 250 hostages, with 100 believed to be still alive in custody in Gaza.

But the nearly six-month war shows no end in sight, even as more than 32,000 Palestinians have been killed and the United Nations is warning of a famine in northern Gaza.

Democrats are growing furious at the death toll and humanitarian crisis, especially with Arab Americans and young voters promising a protest vote at the polls in November. About 13 percent of Democrats in the primary for Michigan, a key battleground state in November, voted uncommitted instead of for President Biden.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) this month called for new elections in Israel as he accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being too willing to tolerate the civilian toll in Gaza.

The Biden administration is trying to get more humanitarian aid into Gaza while it is also taking a harder stance on the war, abstaining this week from a United Nations Security Council resolution that called for an immediate cease-fire for the next two weeks and the release of hostages. Netanyahu canceled a delegation to Washington after the vote.

Biden and key members of his Cabinet are also pushing for Israel to reconsider a major ground operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where more than a million Palestinians are sheltering from the war.

Gallup polled a random sample of 1,016 adults who are 18 and older and live in the United States via phone interviews from March 1-20, and the survey has a margin of error of 4 percentage points.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A 19-year-old man is facing charges for a deadly shooting near a Dayton elementary school that happened earlier this year.

William Brown, of Dayton, was charged in Dayton Municipal Court on Tuesday with one count of murder and three counts of complicity to commit aggravated robbery.

>> PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 20-year-old IDd as man shot, killed near Dayton elementary school

As News Center 7 previously reported, the shooting was reported on Jan. 12 in a parking lot across the street from Roosevelt Elementary School and the Greater Dayton Recreation Center.

When police got to the scene, they found 20-year-old Isaiah Murray dead from a gunshot wound.

Before the shooting, Brown allegedly conspired with several people to set up and rob three people, according to an affidavit and statement of facts.

>> PHOTOS: 1 dead after shooting near Dayton elementary school

Murray, who was not listed as one of the targets of the robbery, was shot and killed during the robbery.

The shooting sent both Roosevelt Elementary School and the Greater Dayton Recreation Center into a lockdown.

The Greater Dayton Recreation Center was also hit by a stray bullet.

Brown was arrested on Sunday and is being held in the Montgomery County Jail on a $1 million bond. Hes scheduled to appear in court next week.
NORMAL, Ala. (WHNT)  State law enforcement officials tell News 19 the March 18 officer-involved shooting at Alabama A&M remains under investigation.

But, Madison County court records show at least one person has been charged with firing a Glock 17 handgun in the Knight Living and Learning Complex on the Alabama A&M campus on March 18.

HEMSI: Man killed after granite fell at Huntsville business

Juvuan Maurice Richards, 20, has been charged with firing in an occupied building, court records show. The arrest warrant also says the building was occupied by officer and students.

The Madison County Sheriffs Office said Richards was booked into the jail on March 18 and bonded out on March 22 on a $50,000 bond. Alabama A&M University was the arresting agency, the sheriffs office said.

Last week, Alabama A&M officials and later Alabama Law Enforcement Agency officials, said there was an officer-involved shooting in the dorm at the Knight Center. One person was shot, officials said. Richards has not been identified by law enforcement officials as involved in the incident.

Alabama A&M issued a statement following the shooting that reads in part:

Earlier today, there was an officer-involved shooting at the Knight Complex on the Alabama A&M University (AAMU) campus resulting in one injury. The incident occurred during a routine security check in the Knight Center and was contained within minutes.

2 runaway teens crash vehicle into Ardmore First National Bank during police chase

In its news release last week, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said, The incident occurred on the campus of Alabama A&M University in Huntsville after an officer with campus police encountered an individual with a firearm in the stairwell of one of the residence halls. Gunfire was exchanged between the individual and officer. The individual, who is a student at the university, was injured and transported to Huntsville Hospital.

The student was not identified by the university. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, which was asked by the university to conduct the investigation, told News 19 it could not yet release the name of the student who was shot, their medical condition or if they were in custody.

Court records show Richards has a court-appointed attorney and waived his preliminary hearing, which was set for next week.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
A Taylor County grand jury returned an indictment March 14 for a felony stalking charge against Eddie Charles Pugh.

Pugh is suspected of stalking Brooke Hanna, wife of Abilene City Manager Robert Hanna.

"Pugh's conduct would cause a reasonable person to fear" when he did what he referred to as protesting outside of the city manager's home around midnight Nov. 12, according to allegations in the indictment.

Pugh should have known Hanna's wife Brooke would have regarded his conduct as threatening bodily harm when he pointed a rifle at the Hanna household around midnight, "knowing that the house was occupied," according to allegations.

Eddie Pugh addresses the Abilene City Council Oct. 26, 2023, criticizing City Manager Robert Hannas performance. Pugh has been charged with stalking after protesting outside Hannas home within the last month.

On Nov. 15, 2023, Pugh allegedly posted "a photo on Facebook of a truck with an AR rifle in the bed pointed at" Brooke Hanna's house, causing her to fear bodily injury.

Throughout this ordeal, Pugh has maintained that he "never threatened anyone," according to his lawyer, CJ Grisham.

According to the Texas Constitution under Article 1. Bill of Rights, "The citizens shall have the right, in a peaceable manner, to assemble together for their common good."

Anyone accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

A look back at what Pugh called protesting

This indictment was in connection with nighttime incidents Nov. 12 and and Nov. 14 outside Robert and Brooke Hanna's residence.

According to allegations in court documents, a complaint was filed saying Pugh was at the Hanna residence Nov. 12 after dark, using a bullhorn and yelling so loudly that people could hear his voice from several blocks away. Family members were fearful Pugh could hurt them.

On. Nov. 14, Pugh allegedly returned to the Hanna residence and pointed an "AR-type rifle" at the house at approximately midnight, according to allegations.

Court documents further state that on Nov. 15, Pugh allegedly posted the photo to Facebook showing his truck bed with a rifle in it, pointed at the Hanna residence.

Abilene police conducted an investigation into alleged ongoing harassment from Pugh directed at the Hannas from September through November 2023.

Allegations include that Pugh posted Robert Hanna's personal cell phone number online, and that he posted a Facebook "reel" featuring the city manager with the words, "FIRE HIM," written on top.

Hanna family members previously alleged the behavior has "affected their everyday life," and that Robert Hanna felt unsafe in his home and feared for the safety of his family.

Will Pugh lose his right to own a firearm?

No hearing or trial date had been set as of Wednesday morning, according to Taylor County courthouse records.

Pugh was free Wednesday from the Taylor County Jail on a $75,000 bond and has been ordered to wear an ankle monitor, according to online jail records and court documents.

He is prohibited from leaving his home between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.

If convicted, he faces two to 10 years in prison or 10 years' probation, according to Assistant District Attorney Dan Joiner.

Pugh could lose his right to possess a firearm, however, in addition to any possible jail time.

According to the ATF, the Gun Control Act makes it unlawful for anyone "convicted in any court of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year" to possess firearms or ammunition.

This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: Alleged Abilene city manager's wife stalker indicted
EXETER, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A man was arrested over the weekend in Exeter for allegedly attempting to steal a catalytic converter, according to the Exeter Police Department.

Police say on March 23, shortly after 11:30 p.m. officers responded to the 300 block of N. Orange on a report of a male subject underneath a vehicle, possibly attempting to steal a catalytic converter.

According to police, officers arrived on the scene and the subject who was later identified as 24-year-old, Joel Medina attempted to flee on foot.

Police say officers pursued Medina and located him in the bushes of a yard in the 300 block of Willow Street. Medina refused to comply with commands to come out of the bushes and surrender. Medina had to be physically removed from the bushes at which time he was taken into custody.

Police say at the time of his arrest Medina was found to have two active warrants for his arrest. He was booked at the Tulare County Sheriffs Department for active warrants as well as fresh criminal charges stemming from this incident.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.
A man has been charged with murder along the New York City subway system, after police said he shoved someone into the path of an oncoming train this week in "an unprovoked attack."

The killing came just hours after the New York City Police Department announced a new transit initiative to ramp up already-increased police presence underground following an uptick in violent crimes on the subway in recent weeks.

Carlton Mcpherson, 24, was charged with second-degree murder in connection to Monday evening's slaying that began on a train platform in Manhattan's East Harlem neighborhood, a NYPD spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Police said officers responded just before 8 p.m. to a 911 call reporting a person on the tracks at the 125th Street subway station.

Arriving officers found an unconscious man struck by a northbound train, the spokesperson said, and EMS personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.

New York Police Department Chief of Patrol John Chell, on March 25, 2024, announces a new transit initiative, dubbed Operation Fare Play, to ramp up already increased police presence underground following a series of violent high-profile crimes there.

Mcpherson, of the Bronx, was arrested at the scene, police said, transported to a local police precinct and charged later that day with the felony, the spokesperson told USA TODAY Wednesday morning.

According to a preliminary investigation by detectives, police said, the victim was pushed to the tracks as the train entered the station "in an unprovoked attack."

The killing took place the same day police Chief of Patrol John Chell announced a new transit initiative called Operation Fare Play, with plans to add 800 more police officers in the subway at strategic locations based on crime, MTA statistics and community complaints."

Watch as @NYPDTransit Chief Kemper makes a public safety announcement 03-25-2024 https://t.co/9XjygCvn9H  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) March 25, 2024

The National Guard and one U.S. subway: New York is sending the National Guard into NYC subways to help fight crime

Victim identified as 54-year-old New Yorker

Police did not release the identity of the person who died Monday, but the New York Times and WNBC-TV identified him as 54-year-old Jason Volz.

USA TODAY has reached out to the NYC Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Volzs ex-wife, Anna Torres, told the Times the victim had recently moved into an apartment in the city, had been sober for two years and was really turning things around."

It just seems like such a waste, Torres told the outlet. This is crazy because he survived the pandemic, survived being homeless. He got better, he got clean and everything was working.

Torres could not immediately be reached by USA TODAY.

Recent bridge collisions: Collapse of Baltimore's Key is latest bridge incident of 2024 after similar collisions in China, Argentina

Carlton Mcpherson jailed without bond

As of Wednesday, New York Department of Corrections records showed Mcpherson remained jailed without bond and was set to appear in Manhattan Criminal Court Friday for a hearing on the murder charge.

An attorney of record for Mcpherson was not listed online.

Mcpherson's mother, Octavia Scouras, told the Times her son was raised by one of his grandparents and had been hospitalized at least twice for mental health treatment.

"I did everything possible so this child would have a better life," Scouras, who lives in NYC, told the outlet.

As of Wednesday, police told USA TODAY, the subway slaying remained under investigation.

Woman loses feet after being pushed: Police say 29-year-old New York resident was pushed onto subway tracks, struck by train in NYC

City: Subway crime down so far this year

Despite the recent spate of violence on and around the subway, in a March 3 announcement, Adams office announce major crime had declined more than 19% this year.

In addition, officials reported overall crime also continues to decline in NYC where National Guard members are now patrolling subway stations in an effort to deter criminal activity.

HAPPENING NOW: Announcing #OperationFarePlay



Over the next 5 days, we are surging 800 officers into the @mta subway system to address fare beating- one of the most common complaints we receive from the public.



Transit safety starts with addressing theft of service.



If you pic.twitter.com/ftuGO2ixfb  NYPD Deputy Commissioner, Operations Kaz Daughtry (@NYPDDaughtry) March 25, 2024

In a statement previously released to USA TODAY, Adams said he knows that  despite being a former police officer  "it's not just about keeping people safe, it's also making sure they feel safe."

NYPD Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry said the added officers will also help address MTA "fare beating  one of the most common complaints we receive from the public."

"Transit safety starts with addressing theft of service," Daughtry posted on X. "If you think you can steal a ride on the subway or bring a weapon into the system, think again! You WILL be arrested."

Previous subway attacks include man fatally shot with own gun, woman shoved in front of train

The killing Monday follows a pair of recent, high-profile incidents on the subway, each of which had unique circumstances involving the suspects and victims.

In one, an armed 36-year-old man got into a dispute on a train in Brooklyn with a 32-year-old man before being shot and killed with his own weapon after boarding on without paying for his ticket on March 14.

In the second, a domestic dispute left a 29-year-old woman severely injured and her 35-year-old partner charged with attempted murder. Christian Valdez, of Brooklyn, stands accused in the March 9 attack in which officials said his girlfriend lost both her feet. Valdez remained jailed without bond Wednesday, online records show, and was due in court April 11.

Fatal Walmart stabbing: Suspect used racial slur before fatally stabbing Walmart employee, 18, in the back

New York City Mayor Eric Adams recently addressed some of the violence during a media briefing.

"We have to deal with this small pocket of people that have made up their mind that they are going to hurt New Yorkers," Adams said in a video captured by WNBC-TV.

Contributing: Terry Collins

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Carlton Mcpherson was charged with killing Jason Volz in NYC subway
At a meeting in 1967, the premier of the Soviet Union, Alexei Nikolayevich Kosygin, asked the then-U.S. president Lyndon B. Johnson about why his country supported Israel so strongly. Johnson replied: Because its the right thing to do. Relations between the United States and Israel  an issue that is practically unquestioned today  slowly became stronger after the creation of the Israeli state in 1948.

A year earlier, Washington was one of the strongest supporters of the United Nations plan to partition Palestine and end the British mandate, which paved the way for the creation of a Jewish state. For decades and regardless of the party in government, the United States has maintained strong political, financial and military support for Israel, which has helped the Jewish state to become more powerful than its Arab neighbors in the Middle East. Although this alliance appears unbreakable, the Gaza offensive ordered by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the Hamas attacks in October has brought relations between the two countries to their lowest point.

What has triggered the crisis?

The current tension between the U.S. and Israel was preceded by two events: the first took place on Monday, when the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan and the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas and other Gazan militias. The resolution  the first passed in the nearly six months of war  was able to pass thanks to the abstention of the U.S., which was a hard blow for its ally Israel. The Israeli prime minister warned the U.S. against making a decision of this magnitude. And he carried out his threat. Netanyahu canceled the visit to Washington of two of his closest men, National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi and Minister of Strategic Affairs and former ambassador to the United States, Ron Dermer.

Six months of almost unconditional support

We will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself and respond to this attack, Biden said in an address from the White House after the Hamas attacks on Israeli territory on October 7. And Biden has been true to his word. Washington has maintained practically unwavering political support during the Gaza war, even repeating the Israeli narrative that compared Hamas to the Islamic State. The U.S. president has sent Secretary of State Antony Blinken to the region up to five times in a bid to negotiate  together with the Egyptian and Qatari mediators  an agreement that would end the conflict.

And the U.S. delegation has been vetoing several resolutions calling for a ceasefire in the U.N. Security Council. Until now, Washington has tried to avoid any language that could make the Israeli executive uncomfortable, opting to support a pause in hostilities, which didnt please the administration either. But on Monday, the U.S. for the first time abstained in the vote in the Security Council, which allowed the ceasefire resolution to be passed.

On a military level, the United States, with 30,000 soldiers in the region, has reinforced its deployment by bringing aircraft carriers such as the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower closer to the Mediterranean. To understand the alliance between the two countries, it is also essential to take into account Washingtons financial support. In 2016, during the Barack Obama administration, Congress approved a 10-year economic package for Israel worth $38 billion, the largest signed so far.

The divisions between the two allies

Cracks between the Israeli and U.S. government are now showing. The Biden administrations repeated statements about Israels right to defend itself have started to become more nuanced, with Washington insisting that the Israeli campaign against Hamas in Gaza must do more to avoid civilian deaths.

[Netanyahu] is hurting Israel more than helping Israel, Biden even declared. In another blow to the Israeli prime minister, Biden last week also supported a speech made by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, which called for new elections in Israel and described Netanyahu as an obstacle to peace.

With over 32,000 people dead in the Gaza Strip and two million more on the brink of famine, the United States has repeatedly called for greater entry of humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory. This is up to Israel, as it controls the border crossings into Gaza. The U.N. and NGOs on the ground have denounced the obstacles to getting assistance to the Gazan population.

Lastly, Washington has urged Israel not to carry out its planned ground invasion of Rafah, in the south of Gaza, which is the last refuge for more than one million displaced Gazans from the north, who Israel ordered to head south.

Biden, an avowed pro-Israel politician

Despite the tensions with Netanyahu, Biden has often expressed a close bond with Israel and even Zionism. You dont have to be a Jew to be a Zionist, and I am a Zionist, Biden said last October during a speech in Washington. Throughout his career, the Democratic president has kept up his commitment to addressing the Arab-Israeli conflict  he even met Israeli prime minister Golda Meir in 1973, in the middle of the Yom Kippur War. During his more than three decades as a senator, Biden was a large recipient of donations from pro-Israel groups. That friendship and dedication continued as Obamas vice president (2009-2017) and during his presidency.

What has Bidens support for Israel cost him?

The Biden administration can quantify how much its initial unconditional support for Israels offensive in Gaza has cost it in votes. Biden received tens of thousands of protest votes at the Democratic primaries in response to a campaign launched by progressive groups and the Arab-American community. The campaign called on voters to select uncommitted on the ballot in protest of Bidens support for Israel in the war in Gaza, and to warn the president that this position could cost him the November presidential election.

In Minnesota, the uncommitted vote garnered 19% of the vote on Super Tuesday. By way of comparison, in the 2012 primaries, in which Democratic president Barack Obama was running for re-election, the uncommitted vote was just 3.7%. The overwhelming response prompted Biden to change tact, and on Monday, the U.S. allowed the passage of a resolution that the United Nations itself called historic, even though it was adopted after six months of war.

In addition to the political cost, there is also the toll it has taken militarily. Bidens support for Israel and the offensive on Gaza itself has led to a violent escalation in the Middle East, in which groups linked to Iran, Hamass main ally, have attacked U.S. targets in the region.

Biden and Netanyahus poor relationship

It is not the first time that both partners differ on sensitive issues. In 2010, Joe Biden, then serving as vice president to Barack Obama, traveled to Tel Aviv to try to talk Netanyahu into a temporary halt to the expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank and to promote a peace dialogue with the Palestinians. He was met on arrival with a slap in the face: the announcement of the construction of 1,600 new houses in East Jerusalem. I condemn the decision by the government of Israel to advance planning for new housing units in East Jerusalem, Biden said in a statement.

In 2016, his last year in the White House, Obama left behind a great military aid plan for Israel for the next 10 years, but also a final message to Netanyahu in the form now also chosen by Biden: an abstention in a United Nations Security Council resolution condemning the settlements. In January 2021, now with Biden in power, Netanyahu once again snubbed the United States by authorizing the construction of another 850 homes in settlements in the West Bank.

What could change with Donald Trump?

If Donald Trump wins the November elections, he could relaunch the most conservative and populist line of U.S. foreign policy towards Israel. In December 2017, when he was president, the New York magnate sowed discord in the international community, especially among Arab countries, by recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

While Trump was in power, the Israeli settler population also soared to record numbers. The Republican leader was the prime mover, together with his son-in-law Jared Kushner, of the Abraham Accords between Israel and four Arab countries through the sale of state-of-the-art weapons to the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, the lifting of sanctions on Sudan and the recognition of Moroccos sovereignty over Western Sahara.

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LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  A 27-year-old man has been charged by the U.S. Attorney of the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten damaging religious property.

Totten alleges Jiafeng Chen spray painted swastikas on the Chabad House in Kalamazoo in November of 2023. A large menorah was also damaged.

Totten alleges Chen alleges vandalized the house because of the Jewish characteristics of individuals associated with it. The Chabad organization conducts religious, cultural and community activities at the house, including Jewish religious services.

FILE PHOTO: U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio, File)

Every faith community in this country has the right to gather and worship free from intimidation, said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten in a news release. Defacing religious property is not mere vandalism. Its an attack on a constitutional right that tries to tell certain people theyre not welcome in the community. We will continue to work with our partners to prevent these crimes and hold those who commit them swiftly accountable.

In the news release officials from both local and federal law enforcement weighed in on the charges.

This single incident created confusion, fear, and intimidation in our community, said Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Chief David Boysen.

People of all faiths should not live in fear because of the religion they choose to practice, said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. The FBI and our law enforcement partners have remained vocal advocates of protecting all places of worship and are committed to removing those from our communities who resort to bias-motivated violence.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (FOX 2) - A man is accused of murdering the woman he was dating and leaving her body along a freeway in West Michigan last week.

Brandon Ortiz-Vite, 25, is charged with felony murder, open murder, carjacking, carrying a concealed weapon, and using a firearm in the commission of a felony in connection with the death of 25-year-old Ruby Garcia.

Garcia's body was found on the shoulder of southbound US-131 near Leonard Street in Grand Rapids around 11:35 p.m. Friday. Michigan State Police said she had been shot to death.

Investigators developed a person of interest and began searching.

The next day, Garcia's vehicle was found unoccupied in a residential area of South Haven. On Sunday morning, Ortiz-Vite called the police, and he was arrested in the 2200 block of 68th Street in Fennville.

Ortiz-Vite is being held in the Kent County Jail without bond.
Man who escaped from New Jersey prison in 2019 arrested south of Dayton

A man who escaped from a prison in New Jersey four years ago was arrested in Warren County Wednesday.

Oderi Caldwell was wanted after escaping a New Jersey prison in April 2019 where he was serving a sentence for a violent crime, according to U.S. Marshals.

>> Man accused of deadly shooting near Dayton elementary school facing charges; $1M bond set

Authorities In New Jersey considered him one of their most wanted and referred the case to the U.S. Marshals.

An investigation led marshals to the 4000 block of Spanish Bay in Mason, Ohio.

Caldwell was taken into custody and taken to the Warren County jail where he awaits extradition back to New Jersey.

We will continue to follow this story.




(KRON)  Police are investigating after a man was found dead of a gunshot wound early Wednesday morning, the Antioch Police Department said. Antioch PD officers responded at around 5:22 a.m. to the 600 block of East 18th Street.

ConFire reported to Antioch PD regarding a man found deceased of an apparent gunshot wound. Officers arrived and located the man, a 36-year-old Antioch resident, deceased inside of a parked vehicle.

Santa Rosa man arrested on 9 warrants after deputies use PIT maneuver

He had suffered at least one gunshot wound, police said. The investigation was taken over by Crime Scene Investigators and detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit attached to Antioch PDs Investigations Bureau.

The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The incident appears to be isolated, police said, and there is no immediate threat to the community.

The investigation is active and police are declining to release additional information at this time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY)  A man convicted of voluntary manslaughter after fatally shooting another man in Portsmouth in 2022 has been sentenced to eight years in prison.

Matthew Meek was sentenced to an active sentence of eight years with three years of supervised probation on release, Portsmouth Commonwealths Attorneys Office announced on Wednesday. The case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy Commonwealths Attorney Joyce Weddle.

This comes after Meek was found guilty of voluntary manslaughter after a two-day trial back in November. He had previously pleaded guilty to the charge of possession of a firearm after felony conviction by nonviolent felon back in February 2024.

Previous: Man convicted for 2022 shooting death on King Street in Portsmouth

The commonwealths attorneys office says evidence at the trial showed Meek fatally shot Ronnie Trewren on Dec. 5, 2022 on King Street in Portsmouth.

Previous: 2 suspects in King St. homicide arrested following police pursuit in Pasquotank Co.

Meek fled to Elizabeth City after the shooting, and was arrested following a high-speed pursuit. He later admitted to law enforcement that he shot Trewren.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
AMERICAN FORK, Utah (ABC4)  Just after 1 p.m. on Tuesday, officials with the American Fork Police Department were dispatched to a reported trench collapse that partially buried one man.

According to officials, the man was buried up to his chin by the collapse at an American Fork jobsite.

READ NEXT: Man charged with attempted murder for alleged targeted auto pedestrian crashes

Just after 1 p.m. on March 26, 2024, officials with the American Fork Police Department were dispatched to a reported trench collapse that partially buried one man. The man was taken to the hospital after he was rescued from the trench. (Courtesy: American Fork Fire & Rescue)

Just after 1 p.m. on March 26, 2024, officials with the American Fork Police Department were dispatched to a reported trench collapse that partially buried one man. The man was taken to the hospital after he was rescued from the trench. (Courtesy: American Fork Fire & Rescue)

Just after 1 p.m. on March 26, 2024, officials with the American Fork Police Department were dispatched to a reported trench collapse that partially buried one man. The man was taken to the hospital after he was rescued from the trench. (Courtesy: American Fork Fire & Rescue)

Just after 1 p.m. on March 26, 2024, officials with the American Fork Police Department were dispatched to a reported trench collapse that partially buried one man. The man was taken to the hospital after he was rescued from the trench. (Courtesy: Lehi Fire Department)

Just after 1 p.m. on March 26, 2024, officials with the American Fork Police Department were dispatched to a reported trench collapse that partially buried one man. The man was taken to the hospital after he was rescued from the trench. (Courtesy: Lehi Fire Department)

American Fork officials said the man was 10 feet down in the trench.

Crews worked swiftly to stabilize the trench, American Fork Fire and Rescue said in a social media post. Using special equipment, the technician teams successfully extricated the victim.

Lehi Fire was also one of the many agencies responding to the incident.

Students from Utah Country Heavy rescue school also responded and assisted at levels to which they have been trained, Lehi Fire said in a social media post.

The man was rescued by fire crews from American Fork and Cedar Hills before he was taken to the hospital. Officials have not released the identity of the man, nor have they released the condition he was transported in.

Officials said the cause of the collapse is still under investigation.

There is no further information at this time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  A San Diego man who trafficked counterfeit Apple products with other family members was sentenced Tuesday to four years and three months in prison, prosecutors said.

Zhiwei Allen Liao, 34, was the organizer and leader of the fraud scheme that involved more than 10,000 counterfeit iPhones and iPads, the Office of the United States Attorney Southern District of California said in a news release.

Liao also has to forfeit two residences, $120,370 in U.S. currency and more than 200 Apple devices seized during the investigation.

Liao, along with his brothers, Zhimin and Zhiting Liao, imported counterfeit iPhones and iPads from China that looked genuine and included identification numbers (IMEI and serial numbers) matching identification numbers on real iPhones and iPads that were under warranty and had been previously sold to customers in the United States and Canada, according to court documents.

Diegueno Middle School employee arrested for suspected child sexual abuse

The Liao brothers led co-conspirators to travel to hundreds of Apple stores across the U.S. and Canada to exchange counterfeit iPhones and iPads for real iPhones and iPads, according to prosecutors. The scheme caused Apple, Inc. to lose $6.1 million, prosecutors said.

Zhiwei Liao then sent the fraudulently obtained, but genuine Apple products primarily to China where they were sold at a premium, prosecutors said.

In October, Zhimin and Zhiting were both sentenced to three years and five months in custody.

The case resulted in 12 felony convictions, the forfeiture of five residences in San Diego with an estimated value of more than $4.1 million, over $250,000 in cash and more than 200 Apple products that were either counterfeit, fraudulently obtained, or used during the criminal operations.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
CHICAGO  Police are searching for the people responsible for stabbing a man as he was walking on Chicagos North Side Wednesday morning.

Police said the 32-year-old man was walking in the 3500 block of West Ainslie in Albany Park around 6:15 a.m.

A grey sedan pulled up and three men got out and stabbed the man and took his belongings.

Read more: Latest Chicago news headline

The man was stabbed in the side and suffered cuts to the face, police said. He was taken to the hospital in serious condition.

No one is in custody. Police are investigating.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Broadcast news footage Tuesday night showed a robot being used to check the area where a suspected bank robber claimed to have an explosive device. (KTLA-TV)

An ordeal at a Fullerton Wells Fargo bank on Tuesday evening began with a possible robbery attempt in which a man threatened witnesses with an "explosive device" and ended when police shot the individual outside the bank's doors, according to law enforcement officials.

In a statement on social media, the Fullerton Police Department said officers responded to reports of a possible bank robbery in the 100 block of West Bastanchury Road around 5:09 p.m. and began evacuating employees.

The Orange County sheriff's bomb squad also responded to the scene.

"While inside the bank, witnesses stated the suspect produced what appeared to be an explosive device. Upon exiting the bank, an officer involved shooting occurred," the department wrote.

Police spokesperson Kristy Wells declined to provide additional details on the incident, citing an ongoing investigation.

It is unclear whether the suspect was killed, though CBS News reported the unidentified suspect died at the scene.

KTLA reported that the suspect was shot after exiting the bank, and that officers then sent in a robot and drone to investigate items surrounding the unresponsive suspect.

No employees or officers were injured, the Police Department said.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
House District 10 candidate Marilyn Lands. (Courtesy of Marilyn Lands)

Democratic candidate Marilyn Lands, who campaigned on ending Alabamas near-total abortion ban and protecting access to contraception and in vitro fertilization, won a special election Tuesday for a Huntsville-area state House seat.

Decision Desk HQ, a website that reports election results, called the race for Lands shortly after 8:30 p.m.

As of 9:22 p.m. Tuesday, Lands had 3,715 votes (62.3%) in unofficial returns. Madison City Councilman Teddy Powell, the Republican nominee, had 2,236 votes (37.5%). The district covers south Huntsville, southern Madison County and parts of the city of Madison.

Lands will succeed former Rep. David Cole, R-Madison, who resigned in August after pleading guilty to voter fraud charges.

In a statement, Lands said that Alabama women and families sent a clear message that will be heard in Montgomery and across the nation.

Our Legislature must repeal Alabamas no-exceptions abortion ban, fully restore access to IVF, and protect the right to contraception, the statement said. Lands also said in the statement that she looks forward to representing everyone in District 10 and building a brighter future for Alabama.

Lands, like Democrats in the state and nationwide, ran on protecting reproductive rights. In a previous interview, she discussed having an abortion in the past, and said she wanted to protect medical treatment that was available 20 years ago.

Lands said reproductive rights became a priority in her campaign after the Alabama Supreme Courts Feb. 16 ruling on in vitro fertilization, which declared frozen embryos are children and led to at least three clinics halting IVF treatment.

Powell ran on issues like additional funding for infrastructure. He said previously that he wanted to ensure north Alabama continued to develop economically. He also took a moderate approach to the states CHOOSE Act, which provides up to $7,000 in an Educational Savings Account (ESA) for non-public school expenses, saying the law may have to be changed in future.

Powell conceded to Lands shortly after the polls closed at 7 p.m.

In a statement, Powell started with wishing Lands the absolute best. He said it was an honor to be considered for the seat and thanked voters for their support.

We are proud of the campaign we ran. We ran a tough and respectful race and that is something that we are incredibly proud of. Our state has so much to offer and I believe if we come together, we can accomplish great things, he said in the statement.

Lands win marks the first net gain for the Democrats in either chamber of the Alabama Legislature since 2002, when they picked up a seat in the Alabama Senate. Democratic Rep. Phillip Ensler, D-Montgomery, flipped a Republican-held seat in 2022, the first such flip for Democrats since 2010. But Rep. Dexter Grimsley, D-Newville, lost to current Rep. Rick Rehm, R-Dothan, that same year.

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The post Marilyn Lands, Democrat who ran on reproductive rights, flips Alabama House seat appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
Marilyn Lands has just won the special election for Alabama House District 10 by a whopping 25 percentage pointsin a district where she, a Democrat who speaks openly about having an abortion, was a startling break from the status quo. She could be basking in the glow of her victory or out celebrating with the family and friends who attended her watch party last night. But Lands is already looking toward the future.

It gives me a lot of hope for this state in 2026, she said Wednesday in an interview from her home in Huntsville. I hope that this will be the start of us winning some more seats in 2026 and really beginning to break that [Republican] super majority.

Lands, 65, is a mother and licensed mental health counselor who, infuriated with Alabamas decision to outlaw abortion and briefly ban IVF, decided to run a campaign in the deep South focused heavily on reproductive rights.

The race was state-level, in an off year, and will likely do little to change the balance of power in the Alabama legislature, where Republicans have a supermajority. But she is not the only one who thinks it is a harbinger of things to come.

Tonights victory is a political earthquake in Alabama, declared Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee President Heather Williams in a statement Tuesday night. Republicans across the country have been put on notice that there are consequences to attacks on IVF.

The Biden campaign, meanwhile, called the victory a clear message to Donald Trump and extreme MAGA Republicans, claiming Alabama voters know exactly whos to blame for restricting their ability to decide how and when to build their families and theyre ready to fight back."

Though her rival criticized her for it on the campaign trail, Lands thinks the national attention is more than warranted.

I think our state has made this about national politics, she said. When Alabama implemented the [abortion] trigger law here, we saw that spread to other states very fast. I am now afraid that other things we've done herethe IVF ruling, contraception She trails off, then interrupts herself: I dont want this to be Alabamas legacy.

This is Lands first time on a national stage but not the campaign trail. She ran for this same seat two years ago against Republican David Cole. The districtan affluent, educated suburb in northern Alabama, encompassing parts of Madison and Huntsvillehad been trending purple since 2020, when Donald Trump took it by just 1 percent of the vote and Democratic Sen. Doug Jones won by 5 percent. Lands came close to flipping the House seat, but lost to Cole by just 7 percentage points.

Then, in August, Cole pleaded guilty to felony voter fraud and was forced to resign his seat, teeing up a special election.

I didnt even have to make a decision when the special election was announced, Lands said. I knew I was gonna run.

Lands focused her previous campaign on education, health care, and economic issues, but she knew this campaign had to be about reproductive rights. Alabama has one of the strictest abortion bans in the country, with no exception for rape or incest, and women have been denied the procedure even for fatal fetal anomalies.

In February, the state Supreme Court sided with two families who lost embryos in an IVF clinic accident, assigning refrigerated embryos some of the same rights as children and causing three major clinics to temporarily halt all IVF procedures. State lawmakers have since passed legislation to protect patients and providers from prosecution, but Lands believes it does not go far enough.

Instead of hiding her disagreement with the political status quo in Alabama, Lands highlighted it, foregrounding reproductive rights in her speeches, campaign literature, and one-on-one conversations with voters. Earlier this month, she filmed a television ad with a young woman named Alyssa Gonzales, who was forced to drive 10 hours out of state to terminate a non-viable pregnancy that was threatening her health. In the ad, Lands revealed that she had received an abortion for a similar diagnosis 20 years earlier, but was able to have the procedure in her own state. Its shameful that today women have fewer freedoms than I had two decades ago, she said in the ad.

Her opponent, Madison City Council member Teddy Powell, took the opposite stance, avoiding conversation about abortion whenever possible. He declined to state his own position on the issue in an interview with The Washington Post, saying, The law is what the law is. Asked about the IVF issue, he said it had been fixed.

In an interview with Politico this week, he accused Lands of making their competition into a national race, instead of focusing on local issues.

Its certainly an issue that needs to be dealt with, but not our top issue, Powell said of reproductive rights. I dont think that this is the issue that wins or loses the race.

Clearly, he was wrong. But Lands says she would not have regretted her decision to spotlight reproductive rights even if the race had turned out differently.

I felt like whether I won or lost, this was too important of an issue not to stand up for, she said. I really have been at peace with that decision. I have not regretted it.

She added that her focus on reproductive rights connected her with voters in ways she didnt expect. Some of them have told me, I havent spoken of this in 30 years, or, Nobody but my family knows, but I wanna tell you, she said.

I think we have this dialogue going on thats a very healthy thing, she added. Im hoping that that will help people be able to talk more about these issues.

Lands knows that getting her way in the Republican-dominated legislature is a longshot. But she said shell continue pushing to repeal the abortion ban, while championing issues like Medicaid expansion, investing in mental health, and supporting public schools.

In the long run, she said, she wants to focus on changing the makeup of the state legislature in 2026, and on encouraging other women to run for office in the South.

I feel like this [race] has been a real victory for women [and] families, she said. We have sent a message that the people are ready for change. And I am ready to get down to Montgomery and be the start of some positive change for this state.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Rep. Marilyn Lands, D-Huntsville, won a special election for the Alabama House of Representatives on March 26, 2024. Lands campaigned on reproductive rights, calling for an end to Alabama's abortion ban and state protection for contraception and in vitro fertilization. (Courtesy Marilyn Lands Campaign)

One thing is clear from Marilyn Lands House District 10 victory: Abortion still motivates Democrats.

Lands turned a seven-point loss in 2022 into a 25-point romp on Tuesday. And for the first time since 2002  when then-Democratic Gov. Don Siegelman almost pulled off a shocking re-election upset  Alabama Democrats came out of an election with more legislators than they had before it.

But the obvious question is whether Democrats can replicate Lands win around the state.

And the answer right now is only in a few places.

A House gain in Huntsville is good news for the party. Madison County, growing at a clip and pulling in people from around the country, has been trending blue for years. Lands win could represent a long-awaited breakthrough.

But Huntsville is also something of a political outlier, with favorable conditions for Team Blue.

Almost 47% of Madison County residents over the age of 25 have a bachelors or graduate degree. In Alabama, its 28%.

The median household income in Madison County is a little over $80,000 a year. In Alabama, its just under $60,000.

The median age in Madison County is 38.8 years. In Alabama, its 39.6 years.

In short, Madison County looks more like northern Virginia than the state as a whole. Thats good for local Democrats. But it also means voters in Madison County might have been more receptive to Lands message than they would be elsewhere in Alabama.

And the Democrats opportunities elsewhere in Alabama look scarce. The legislative maps approved in 2021 only created a handful of districts that the party could capture.

House District 10 was one of them. House District 74 in Montgomery, flipped in 2022 by Rep. Phillip Ensler, D-Montgomery, was another. But the well runs pretty dry after that.

House District 85 in Houston County, currently held by Rep. Rick Rehm, R-Dothan, is on paper a swing district. Democrats could also make a play for House District 25, held by Rep. Phillip Rigsby, R-Huntsville, which includes parts of Limestone and Madison counties.

But most legislative seats in Alabama heavily favor one party or the other. And as currently drawn, most districts favor Republicans. Democrats could pick up all the swing seats and barely dent the Legislatures GOP supermajority. The demographic trends of a state thats older and more rural than the country as a whole still give Republicans an edge.

Lessons for Republicans

And yet, the GOP needs to be cautious.

To be sure, most places in Alabama arent Huntsville. But many Alabamians share Lands views.

The states abortion ban is unpopular. The Alabama Supreme Courts attempt to ban in vitro fertilization might be even more despised, based on Republicans scramble to protect IVF. Teddy Powell, Lands Republican opponent, largely avoided discussing reproductive issues and focused on development. (Heres hoping more Alabama Republicans talk about real issues and not Fox News fantasies.)

And just because Lands victory will be difficult to replicate doesnt mean it cant be replicated. Lee County, the home of Auburn University, has similar educational attainment levels as Madison (though its much closer to the states median-income level). Tuscaloosa also seems like fertile ground for a reproductive rights message.

Republican leadership in the Legislature over the last two years has tried to avoid talking about the issue. Some of this is natural: When you have an effective abortion ban, theres nowhere else to go.

And yet the hard right of the party wants to try.

Attorney General Steve Marshall says he can prosecute people helping women get out-of-state medical care. Rep. Ernie Yarbrough, R-Trinity, filed a bill last year that would have exposed women who have abortions to felony charges. Yarbrough and other House Republicans made it clear during debates on the IVF bill that they wanted to see restrictions on the procedure in the future. Yarbrough invoked the Holocaust during his comments.

These are cruel and terrible policies. But the rhetoric that accompanies them will be poison in a general election with a decent Democratic candidate. And it could open a door for the party in areas they currently consider hostile.

Seemingly unshakeable majorities in the Alabama Legislature have collapsed before. When Democrats controlled the body in 2001, they drew a map that seemingly locked in their majorities for a decade. But in 2010, they lost northern Alabama, and with it, the House and Senate.

Time will tell if Lands victory is merely a sign that Huntsville has turned blue, or a harbinger of a statewide Democratic revival. For now, Republicans remain secure in the Legislature.

The real test will come when a Democratic candidate takes Lands approach to Lee or Tuscaloosa counties. Or when a Democrat tries to run on abortion in a deep red suburban county like Shelby or Baldwin.

That person would face long odds. But the GOPs intransigence on abortion will certainly make things easier.

And if reproductive rights continue to draw voters to the Democrats, Lands victory might not seem so extraordinary.

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The post What Marilyn Lands win says, and what it doesnt appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore (D) on Wednesday called for full accountability following the collapse of the Francis Key Scott Bridge in Baltimore that left six people presumed dead.

Moore said on CNN there needs to be a full and thorough investigation.

What led up to this? What made the ship lose power? What made them lose the ability to be ability to steer the ship? Do we have the right infrastructure thats in place to be able to protect the people of our state, he said. So I think there needs to be a full reckoning, a full accountability, and I think we need to go wherever the investigation takes us to make sure that the people of our jurisdictions are safe.

A cargo ship hit a bridge support early Tuesday morning after what authorities have described as a possible temporary loss of power, causing the bridge to collapse into the water below.

Moore said he hadnt heard any information about why the ship may have lost power and that the investigation is still in its preliminary stages, but its something we are all fully committed to making sure that we see through to completion.

Moore also said on CNN that search and rescue efforts are still underway amid freezing temperatures, and he has spoken with the families of the six missing people and said he prayed with them, prayed for them.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg had a similar sentiment, saying on CNN that to be clear, if any private party is responsible for and accountable for this, that they will be held accountable.

He added, What we know is that we got to tear down every obstacle, physical, financial, and administrative, that means using all the tools that we have as a department, and very likely working with Congress as well.

That was the commitment that the president made, and that I made yesterday with Gov. Wes Moore, for we were with him and his leadership team.

President Biden on Tuesday said he intends for the federal government to pay to repair the bridge, and he plans to visit the site of the collapse.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A drone view of the Dali cargo vessel, which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse and cutting off access to the Port of Baltimore.

A drone view of the Dali cargo vessel, which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing it to collapse and cutting off access to the Port of Baltimore. Photograph: National Transportation Safety Board/Reuters

Statehouse and senate leaders in Maryland have drawn up plans for emergency legislation to cover the salaries of port workers hit by shutdowns in the wake of Tuesdays collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Bill Ferguson, president of the Maryland senate, said more than 15,000 people in the region rely on the Port of Baltimore to put food on the table.

In a statement on social media, Ferguson said: The human cost of lives lost yesterday is overwhelming and tragic. The economic and stability loss to the thousands impacted in the days ahead cannot be understated.

Related: Details emerge on likely Baltimore bridge collapse victims: They were wonderful family people

Details about the bill, such as the extent of the aid and how it will be disbursed, have not been disclosed yet.

But Ferguson stressed that time was of the essence. Until the channel to the port is cleared, there is enormous cost to families, he said.

Trade unions sounded the alarm on Wednesday. Scott Cowan, president of the International Longshoremens Associations Baltimore arm, told Bloomberg: I have 2,400 ILA members who are soon going to be without jobs. Getting them on the payroll, and keeping their families fed, putting food on the table is my first and foremost thought on my mind.

An estimated 140,000 workers in the region are indirectly supported by activities at the Port of Baltimore, which is the ninth busiest port in the US, with more than $80bn in imports and exports in 2023. It is a major port for coal exports, automobiles and parts.

Carnival Cruise Line said it was temporarily moving their Baltimore operations to Norfolk, Virginia, for the duration of rescue efforts and cleanup.

At least six people have been declared to be dead following the bridge collapse in the early hours of Tuesday morning: immigrants from Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador and Mexico who were working for the contractor Brawner Builders, filling potholes in the middle of the bridge when it collapsed after it was struck by a cargo ship.

It hurts my heart to see what is happening. We are human beings, and they are my folks, Jesus Campos, a co-worker of the missing workers, told Telemundo. Folks had their lives changed in a blink of an eye.

The same vessel, the Dali, that hit the bridge was involved in a 2016 collision in Antwerp, Belgium. The company that chartered the ship, Maersk, had recently been sanctioned by US regulators for retaliation against whistleblowers, reported the Lever.
TULSA  She was quiet. Even though she held an elected office, she wasnt one to make herself known. Most people outside of her legislative district didnt even know who she was.

She liked kids. On any given day, youd find her in the halls of the Capitol speaking to a group of pages or a family with children.

She liked jazz, too. In fact, she was such a fan she helped found the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame.

A Democrat from Tulsa, the late state Sen. Maxine Horner was elected to the Oklahoma Senate in 1986. She served 19 years until 2005, when she retired because of term limits. Horner, along with then-state Sen. Vicki Miles-LaGrange, was one of the first two Black women elected to the state Legislature.

Still, Horner wasnt one to thrust herself into the spotlight. Instead, she worked quietly, behind the scenes. Her quiet approach to politics and policy paid off, too.

A quiet approach to state politics, policy

While other lawmakers spent their careers trying to get national attention, Horner quietly crafted one of the most important pieces of legislation ever produced by an Oklahoma lawmaker  Oklahoma's Promise scholarship program.

Originally known as the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Plan (OHLAP), the program was Horner's brainchild.

"She worked on that bill for quite a while," said Bill Thoms, a former education policy analyst for the Oklahoma Senate. "She got the idea after seeing a television show about a millionaire who paid for several students' college education."

That millionaire was Patrick F. Taylor. In 1988 Taylor spoke to 183 underachieving inner-city seventh- and eighth-grade students at Livingston Middle School in New Orleans East.

More: Maxine Horner, one of first Black women in Oklahoma's Senate, dies at 88

"These students had been held back in school, many more than once. They were not expected to make it past the 8th grade, let alone enter high school. Most had lost all hope in themselves and were planning to drop out of school," a story on the website about Taylor said.

According to the story, Taylor asked the students whether they wanted to go to college, and every hand in the room went up. Curious about this paradox, Taylor learned the students' parents could not afford to send their children to college, and they were not pushing their children to do well in school.

Taylor challenged the kids, telling them if they maintained a B average in school in a college prep curriculum and stayed out of trouble, he would make sure they could go to college. About half the class graduated from high school, and Taylor made good on his promise.

Committee Chair Sen. Maxine Horner talks Aug. 22, 2019, during the 1921 Race Massacre Grave Investigation at the public oversight committee meeting in Tulsa.

Horner, Thoms said, thought the Taylor plan could be applied in Oklahoma.

"She wanted to make sure each kid would have the opportunity to go to college," Thoms said. "It took her awhile, but she got it done."

Originally targeting lower income families, the rules for the Oklahoma Promise were simple: Families had to had an income level of $22,000 or less, and the students had to maintain a C-average GPA, stay out of trouble, not use drugs, not skip school and take the required classes.

The plan caught on quickly.

Sen. Horner knew what she was doing, Thoms said.

"Pretty quickly, many members of the Legislature recognized they had a Christmas tree in front of them (with the bill). They could brag to constituents of what a wonderful thing they did. It took her awhile to get it funded, but in the end she was successful."

Horner's colleague, former Senate Pro Tempore Cal Hobson, a Democrat from Lexington, agreed. "She was successful because of intelligence, perseverance, tenacity and just general common sense."

Horner used the long-term approach get OHLAP funded.

"The first year she got the bill passed, but it wasn't funded," Hobson said. "So she spent the interim and the next session talking to lawmakers, to anyone who would listen, about how the bill would change lives. By the time the funding came up for a vote, she had the support she needed."

Tens of thousands of Oklahoma students received help through OHLAP scholarship

Records from the Oklahoma Regents for Higher Education show that Horner's bill did, indeed, change lives.

High school graduates from 1996 were the first students to receive the OHLAP scholarship.

"A total of 637 students completed the OHLAP program requirements in high school and were eligible for the scholarship in 1996-97. Of these, 469, or 74% actually received scholarships," a report about the program noted.

Twenty-eight years later, the scholarship program awarded scholarships to 18,224 students during the 2022-2023 school year.

Horner heard from many of them, too. Before her death in 2021, Horner said she received "hundreds and hundreds of letters" from students who had gone to college or vocational school on an Oklahoma's Promise scholarship.

During the 2017 celebration of the program, Horner said she was excited by the number of students who had received the scholarship.

"I am so excited about 76,000 and all of you here," Horner said at the time. "I hope there will be many more added to the 76,000."

That prediction proved accurate. Over its lifetime, Oklahoma's Promise has awarded scholarships to 109,963 Oklahoma students.

The program, Thoms said, permanently changed the lives of thousands of students.

"It was one of the two or three things that I had a hand in that I felt best about," Thoms said. "Senator Horner's plan focused on kids who were gonna have a struggle paying their way. It gave them a chance."

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Maxine Horner, first Black woman in Oklahoma Senate, changed lives
KYODO NEWS - Mar 27, 2024 - 07:41 | All, Podcast

Episode 38: Peruvian food

Have you ever tried Peruvian cuisine?

Two Kyodo News reporters - Yamaguchi-san and Eduardo - talk about an article that Eduardo wrote about the diplomatic ties between Japan and Peru, and the recent boom in Peruvian food in Japan. They discuss the long history of the relationship, the Peruvian foods that have found a home in Japan, and Eduardo's recommendations for Salvadoran cuisine.

Article mentioned in the podcast:

FEATURE: Global Peruvian food boom has deeper ties in Japan

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.

Related coverage:

Podcast [English World] Episode 37: Retro Japanese games

Podcast [English World] Episode 36: Japans maglev train

Podcast [English World] Episode 35: Nikkei stock index record high

Podcast Episode 34: University of Tokyo's "international" program
Welp, theyre debatin babies up at the Supreme Court again.

On Tuesday, SCOTUS heard oral arguments regarding the morning after pill, mifepristone. The drug was approved for use in 2000, and is now used in half of all abortions. The case before the court is about limiting the ability of patients to receive the drug through the mail.

Not surprisingly, the plaintiffs in this case are a thinly veiled Christian nationalist project called The Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, founded in 2022. Their website has no information about the groups members, but Im guessing their footwear of choice is sensible.

Michael Ian Black: Trump Going Bankrupt (Again) Is an Opportunity to Reset America

Im not going to debate the legal merits of the case, since my legal training extends no further than playing a bowling alley manager on the early-aughts NBC show Ed, about a lawyer who buys a bowling alley. What I will argue, instead, is that the plaintiffs are 100 percent correct to bring this case.

If you believe, as the Alliance and their allies do, that human life begins at fertilization, then I think youre morally obligated to do anything and everything you can to prevent those lives from being terminated, even if the science, public opinion, and the law dont agree with you. In fact, there is no length that is too far for you to travel, because protecting a human life is, prima facie, the highest possible priority.

Filing legally dubious lawsuits in friendly courts is one of the least offensive tactics at their disposal. Its also one of the most effective tactics, now that the 50-year project of overturning Roe is at an end, thanks to the efforts of the Federalist Society, Mitch McConnell, and the Trump administration.

Protestors during the "Bans Off Our Mifepristone" action organized by the Woman's March outside of the Supreme Court on March 26, 2024 in Washington, DC. Jemal Countess/Getty

The law, we are learning, is a very expensive, putty-like substance that can be molded however one sees fit. No wonder the conservative movement spent decades and untold millions to pack the courts. Once you own the judges, you own the law.

Now that theyve got the judges, theyre angling to maximize returns on their investment. If they win their mifepristone fight, next theyll come after the Pill. Theyll come after gay marriage and theyll attempt to codify a binary definition of biological sex into the law, and theyll keep going until theyve made life as miserable as they can for anybody who cant recite John 3:14 from memory.

And, again, they will be correct to do so.

They will be correct because their worldview is fundamentally different from those of us who do not accept the Word as the final word. They may declare their devotion to the Constitution, but the parchment they worship is far older. Its also contradictory, confusing, highly symbolic, and far more open to interpretation than the actual laws of this land. This is why the Bible is also the perfect delivery system to convey whatever the hell it is you want to convey.

Heres what the Bible has to say about when life first begins: It doesnt.

The closest it comes is in Genesis, when describing how Adam came into being:

Then the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.

Michael Ian Black: Donald Trump Jr. is Triggered by Biden Having a Sex Life

If we are to take the Bible literally, as so many in these organizations purport to do, then a human isnt a living being until God breathes into the nostrils. Which would suggest, in my opinion, that life doesnt actually begin until at least birth, because theres no air within the womb. Also, it would mean that Im not a living being because nobody has ever blown air in my nostrils, even though that is my kink.

In Numbers 5, the Bible goes further, ordering husbands who suspect their pregnant wives of adultery to present themselves in front of a priest who will mix together a special potion for her to drink. If she has been faithful, nothing will happen. But if she has been adulterous, the potion will cause a miscarriage. (Its biblical mifepristone!)

Kate Hoeting from Catholics for Choice group holds a sign during a protest outside the Supreme Court as justices hear oral arguments in a bid by President Joe Biden's administration to preserve broad access to the abortion pill, in Washington, DC., on March 26, 2024. Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters

Unsurprisingly, the plaintiffs did not raise the issue of Numbers 5 in Tuesdays oral arguments.

Ultimately, though, this isnt about the Bible. Its about an interpretation of the Bible by a group of radical Christian nationalists. It just so happens that their interpretation of biblical law is overturning actual American law.

And again, they are correct to collect as many gains as they can, for no other reason than they believe they are right and have the money and resources to force their will down the gullets of an American populace already choking on the poison gas of the culture wars.

One thing about the righteous: they are right. Its in the name. As a righteous person, your interpretation of right/wrong is, definitionally, the correct interpretation. No matter if your POV has no basis in law, medicine, or science. No matter that your POV runs contrary to the wishes of a majority of your fellow citizens. Nothing matters except your certitude regarding your own beliefs.

Michael Ian Black: When Trump Rounds Up Migrants, What Will It Look Like?

So yes, you are correct to rob women of the ability to handle their own medical issues. Yes, you are correct to declare what sex acts are moral or immoral. Yes, you are correct to favor teaching students a history of the planet that is at odds with, literally, everything we know about the planet. You are correct to do all of this and more because you are righteous.

Presumably, it is the cold comfort of righteousness that will protect them as real women continue to suffer for their beliefs. Women carrying non-viable fetuses will continue to be forced to carry those pregnancies to term. Women will be forced to give birth to the children of their rapists. Some women will lose their lives. All of which pales in comparison to the heavenly reward they believe is their due.

In Pauls Letters to the Romans, he writes, No one is righteous. Not one. Paul obviously went to court against the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine. If youre unfamiliar with the quotation, you can pick up a copy of the new Trump-branded Bibles available for the low, low cost of $59.95, plus shipping and handling.

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MJ has opened in London but the narrative ends in 1992, a year before allegations about his conduct were raised - Johan Persson

A new musical about Michael Jacksons life has opened in the West End despite criticism that it makes no mention of the child abuse allegations against him.

The writer of MJ, two-time Pulitzer Prize-winner Lynn Nottage, is a lifelong Jackson fan and said she wanted to focus on his music rather than address the scandal.

The first sexual abuse allegations against Jackson surfaced in 1993. The musical ends in 1992, at the time of his Dangerous tour.

Do I believe he was a paedophile? I dont know that I can say one way or the other It does hurt my heart to think about the possibility that it could be true, and I pray that it isnt true, and thats all I can do, Nottage has said.

MJ has been a hit on Broadway, where it opened in 2022, winning four Tony Awards including best choreography for Christopher Wheeldon, its British director-choreographer, and best performance by an actor in a leading role for Myles Frost.

But reviewers in the US criticised its failure to address the abuse allegations, variously calling it sanitised, a monument to misconduct and very smooth, somewhat criminal.

The New York Times headlined its review: In MJ, no ones looking at the Man in the Mirror, while the New York Stage Review said: Michael Jackson is today a credibly accused child molester, and MJ succeeds only if you can ignore that fact.

MJ is co-produced by the Michael Jackson Estate and is billed as offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Jackson into legendary status.

Both Nottage and Wheeldon are lifelong Jackson fans, and said that they wanted the show to be about his music.

MJ was criticised in the US for not addressing the abuse allegations - Johan Persson

After a 2019 documentary, Leaving Neverland, detailed fresh accusations of child abuse, Nottage initially said that she found the accounts of the two alleged victims believable.

That drew the ire of Jackson fans, and in a subsequent interview she said: The men came across as very believable. But heres the caveat: were they ultimately telling the truth? I cannot 100 per cent say so, because Im not judge and jury, and its not my place to do that.

Wheeldon, a Royal Ballet associate, said that he did not consider pulling out of the project after Leaving Neverland was aired.

Asked by the New York Times if he believed Jackson was a child molester, Wheedon said: Its a very difficult question to answer.

Nottage has also said: Theres so much story to tell about Michael Jackson that you cant do it in one musical We felt that, as a musical, what we wanted to focus on was the music.

She told the Los Angeles Times that critics who reviewed the show in the US were really reviewing their complicated relationship to Michael Jackson. And, of course, theres room for that, but what they forget is that we were making a show about an artist who had an indelible impact on 20th century music. And that he was a child star who was damaged in the process of trying to tell his own story through his art.

The show is running at the Prince Edward Theatre. A Michael Jackson jukebox musical, Thriller Live, has been running in the West End since 2009.

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Michigan Easter egg hunt turns violent when man stabbed over 'placement' of eggs: Sheriff

An Easter egg hunt at a Michigan elementary school went horribly wrong when a fight over the placement of the eggs led to a stabbing, authorities said.

Deputies with the Calhoun County Sheriffs Office were called Saturday morning to Valley View Elementary school in Battle Creek amid reports of a violent attack, the sheriff's office said.

They arrived and found a 36-year-old man wielding a knife, authorities said. Investigators said a male and his "partner" female got into an argument over the placement of the eggs.

EASTER SYMBOLS HELP REVEAL THE TRUE MEANING OF THE SEASON, SAYS CHRISTIAN WRITER

A stabbing occurred before an Easter egg hunt at Valley View Elementary school in Battle Creek, Michigan.

"When a family member intervened, the male produced a knife, cutting them multiple times," a sheriff's office statement said.

Responding deputies convinced the man to drop the knife, and then he was arrested. The victim had some lacerations but was expected to recover.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Authorities didn't identify the suspect but said he was a Battle Creek resident. He was booked into the Calhoun County Jail on suspicion of aggravated assault.

"No one else was injured during the incident and children had not yet arrived for the event," the sheriffs office said.

Fox News Digital reached out to Battle Creek Public Schools for comment.





Original article source: Michigan Easter egg hunt turns violent when man stabbed over 'placement' of eggs: Sheriff
(Bloomberg) -- The number of migrants reaching the UK by boat hit a record in the first three months of the year, undercutting a central pledge of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as he braces for an already difficult election campaign.

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Some 4,644 people arrived on the British side of the English Channel as of March 26, according to provisional Home Office figures. That surpasses the 4,548 who made the crossing in the first three months of 2022, and the 3,793 who did so last year, with five days remaining of the quarter.

The record number of arrivals is a blow to Sunak who in January 2023, made a promise to stop the boats one of five core pledges he asked voters to judge him by. The prime minister had until recently been able to claim some progress in tackling the issue, having cut crossings by more than a third last year.

The increase also undermines Conservative arguments that their controversial plan to send migrants to Rwanda will deter would-be asylum-seekers from making the dangerous sea journey. Sunak is trying to pass legislation through Parliament that would declare Rwanda a safe destination to send migrants to after the Supreme Court last year rejected the plan as unlawful.

The prime minister is hoping to send the first flight of deportees to Rwanda before the election and ease a key source of dissatisfaction among right-leaning voters drifting to the upstart Reform UK party. The UK has already passed legislation requiring the removal from Britain of anyone who arrives in the country bypassing normal immigration controls, including those arriving by small boats.

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'Migrant influencer' urging illegals to squat in US homes on run from authorities: report

The Venezuelan TikToker who went viral last month after defending illegal immigrant criminals and urging migrants to squat in U.S. homes is now on the run from immigration authorities, according to a new report.

Leonel Moreno has claimed that his family, which includes his wife and young daughter, has received $350 a week in government handouts since entering the U.S. illegally.

On top of that, he had claimed to be making $1,000 a day as a TikTok influencer. However, his account, which at one point had more than 500,000 followers, appeared inactive Wednesday morning. His verified Instagram account, however, has about 17,000 followers and posted two videos Wednesday morning showing him waving a stack of $100 bills as he posed with his baby girl.

TIKTOKER GOES VIRAL EXPLAINING HOW ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SQUATTING LAWS

Moreno allegedly cut off his ankle monitor after receiving border parole and is now listed as an "absconder" from immigration authorities, the New York Post reported Wednesday, citing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) documents.

ICE did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Moreno reportedly received border parole in April 2022 as part of the government's Alternatives to Detention program, which is supposed to track catch-and-release migrants when there is not enough room to detain them.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Moreno previously told his audience he planned to make a business out of "invading" abandoned houses and taking them over with squatters' rights laws, then selling them for a profit.

Although he has allegedly listed his immigration sponsor as a church charity in Miami, he has reportedly been living in Columbus, Ohio.

ILLEGAL BROTHER OF LAKEN RILEY MURDER SUSPECT LINKED TO VENEZUELAN CRIME GANG: DOJ

Moreno shocked the public last month when he bragged about living on the American taxpayers' dime and called on his TikTok followers to "unite" behind the suspect in a shooting in New York City's Times Square.

Illegal immigration from Venezuela has become increasingly visible as one of the country's most notorious gangs, Tren de Aragua, is also working to establish a foothold on U.S. soil.

The gang has been linked to an attack on police officers in New York City, an international cellphone robbery ring and, indirectly, the murder of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley.

The gang has a notable presence in New York City, Florida, Texas, Illinois and Georgia, authorities have warned.





Original article source: 'Migrant influencer' urging illegals to squat in US homes on run from authorities: report
Under a mountain of legal bills, Mike Lindells biggest property, MyPillow, just lost a place to lay its head.

The 62-year-olds biggest successa line of poly-foam pillowsis currently facing a court-ordered eviction after the big boss failed to pay $217,000 in rent at one of its two warehouses in Shakopee, Minnesota.

MyPillow has more or less vacated, but wed like to do this by the book, attorney Sara Filo, representing MyPillows landlord, First Industrial, said during a hearing on Tuesday. At this point theres a representation that no further payment is going to be made under this lease, so wed like to go ahead with finding a new tenant.

Admittedly, the business hasnt been looking too good. According to Lindell, the infomercial-heavy product lost $100 million in revenue after it was dropped by shopping networks and retailers, had its credit limit downsized by American Express, and had to auction off thousands of pieces of equipment, reported The Star Tribune. Lindell, however, would need a mirror to see exactly why MyPillow has transformed over the last several years into a risky investment.

The former millionaire spent months using every platform at his disposal to seed conspiracy theories following the 2020 presidential election, including against Dominion Voting Systems and Smartmatic, claiming the electronic voting companies were complicit in a scheme to keep Donald Trump from retaking the White House. That, however, cost Lindell $5 million and put him on the line in a $1.3 billion defamation suit brought by Dominion, in which hes being sued not just for spreading the lies but also for attempting to profit off them. Lindells ingenious plan for all this is to try to use the ultraconservative Supreme Court to absolve himselfwith the help of a crowdsourced legal fund.

The beleaguered conspiracy theorist has, all in all, been struggling with cash flow for some time. Earlier this month, Lindell joined Steve Bannons podcast to advertise a new Arizona lawsuit he underwrote for Kari Lakeand to ask if listeners would be willing to spare some change to help him out.
The new image of Sagittarius A* is polarised, the scientists have said, but shows M87* and Sgr A* work in an extremely similar way - European Southern Observatory

The magnetic field of the Milky Ways black hole has been pictured for the first time.

Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*) is the black hole in the middle of our own galaxy, and the new image reveals a strong and organised magnetic field for the first time.

Astronomers think the photo could be the first proof that all black holes look and work in the same way.

The Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) project took the photo and works by connecting telescopes from around the world to take detailed images of black holes.

This approach provided the first black hole image in 2018 of the larger and more distant M87* black hole and also took the first image of Sgr A* in 2022.

The new image of Sgr A* is polarised, the scientists have said, but shows M87* and Sgr A* work in an extremely similar way, despite M87* being 1,000 times larger.

M87*s powerful magnetic field was shown to be so intense that the black hole spewed out material at almost the speed of light back into space in the form of a relativistic jet.

The similarity of the magnetic fields at both black holes indicates it is possible Sgr A* also has one of these, the scientists suggest, despite one never being seen before.

Forthcoming research from the EHT team, starting next month, will last for at least a decade and investigate the presence of a possible jet by trying to capture video of the black hole in action.

The Event Horizon Telescope project took the photo and works by connecting telescopes from around the world to take detailed images of black holes - AFP

If a jet is discovered, it could further bolster the theory that all black holes work in the same way and they all have relativistic jets of energy spouting out of them.

Dr Ziri Younsi, a member of the EHT team from UCL, said: It is very exciting to see the first polarised images of the black hole in the heart of our galaxy.

It is remarkable that the polarisation structure of Sgr A* is so similar to that of the M87* black hole, which we know possesses a prodigious relativistic jet.

The lines on the image are the polarisation revealing the tendrils of the magnetic field, he told The Telegraph, and this tracks the movement of plasma swirling around the black hole.

Mariafelicia De Laurentis, the EHT deputy project scientist and professor at the University of Naples Federico II in Italy, said that the study suggests a jet might be universal among supermassive black holes irrespective of size, mass and their environment.

Dr Younsi added that the Milky Ways black holes apparent lack of a jet has long baffled scientists and this study hints at the possibility there could be a jet hiding near the event horizon.

He added that the findings are still very preliminary, but a very exciting possibility.

Like finally being able to open a book

Sgr A* is more than 26,000 light years from Earth and measures more than 14 million miles across. It is placed in the constellation of Sagittarius and has a mass of about four million Suns.

The vast object is the remains of a large star which exploded when it died and the ultra-dense remnants formed a black hole, which has such an extreme gravitational pull that nothing can escape, not even light.

EHT astronomers trained the telescopes power on the black hole, which the entire Milky Way orbits, and the polarised image strips away lots of energy to provide a look at the magnetic mechanics underpinning the objects physics.

Geoffrey Bower from Academia Sinica in Taiwan said that this image is like finally being able to open a book and see inside after previously only knowing the cover.

Because Sgr A* moves around while we try to take its picture, it was difficult to construct even the unpolarised image, he added. We were relieved that polarised imaging was even possible.

Sara Issaoun, an astrophysicist at Harvard and Smithsonian who is co-lead of the project, said: Along with Sgr A* having a strikingly similar polarisation structure to that seen in the much larger and more powerful M87* black hole, weve learnt that strong and ordered magnetic fields are critical to how black holes interact with the gas and matter around them.

The findings and images are published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.

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Astronomers have found strong magnetic fields spiralling at the edge of the Milky Way's central black hole (Handout)

Astronomers have discovered powerful magnetic fields spiralling around the black hole that sits at the centre of the Milky Way, the European Southern Observatory said Wednesday.

A new image from the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) for the first time showed in polarised light a ring of magnetic fields surrounding the Sagittarius A* black hole.

The fields are similar to those observed around the M87* black hole at the heart of the M87 Galaxy, which the ESO says suggests that strong magnetic fields may be common to all black holes.

"What we're seeing now is that there are strong, twisted, and organised magnetic fields near the black hole at the centre of the Milky Way galaxy," said Sara Issaoun, from Harvard's Center for Astrophysics, and co-lead of the project.

Polarised light images allow the astronomers to isolate the magnetic field lines.

Supermassive black holes, which sit at the centre of galaxies, have masses millions and even billions greater than the Sun. They are believed to have emerged very early in the universe but their creation remains a mystery.

Nothing can escape their gravitational pull, not even light, making them impossible to observe directly.

But with M87* in 2019 and Sagittarius A* in 2022, the EHT captured the halo of light that is produced by the flow of matter and gas that black holes suck in and eject.

"By imaging polarised light from hot glowing gas near black holes, we are directly inferring the structure and strength of the magnetic fields that thread the flow of gas and matter that the black hole feeds on," said Angelo Ricarte, member of the Harvard Black Hole Initiative and a co-lead of the project.

Mariafelicia De Laurentis, deputy scientist at the EHT and professor at the University of Naples Federico II in Italy, said that "since both (black holes) are pointing us toward strong magnetic fields, it suggests that this may be a universal and perhaps fundamental feature of these kinds of systems."

pcl/juc/grd/rhl/gv/imm
DFL leaders and the governor's office are negotiating with drivers' groups and rideshare apps to try to reach a deal on a package of state rules to try to prevent Uber and Lyft from leaving Minneapolis on May 1.

"All the parties  the drivers, Uber and Lyft, the governor's office  are working on a deal," said Sen. Matt Klein, DFL-Mendota Heights. Klein chairs the Commerce Committee, the legislation's next stop once negotiators agree on changes to a bill sponsored by Sen. Omar Fateh, DFL-Minneapolis.

"We're not there yet but I think we have a lot to build on," said House Majority Leader Jamie Long, DFL-Minneapolis. He said legislators are talking with drivers, Uber, Lyft and the governor about issues of insurance, driver deactivation and the all-important minimum pay rate.

After Gov. Tim Walz vetoed Fateh's minimum-pay bill last year, he ordered a working group to study how to regulate ride-hailing apps to create a base rate of pay for drivers in line with state and local minimum wages.

The working group released a set of recommendations at the end of December. But the group, which included legislators, Lyft and Uber representatives, drivers and labor union representatives, among others, did not agree on a base pay rate.

Joel Carlson, who has lobbied for Uber for over a decade, said the company backed all 24 of the working group's recommendations.

The sticking points for Uber, he said, are the base pay rate  the company does not agree with many aspects of a state study released this month that found drivers often earn less than minimum wage  and making sure any new rules don't turn the apps' drivers from contract workers to employees.

"The more you move away from the independent nature of the work," he said, "the closer you get to employment status."

Carlson said the company does want to help drivers, but said its business model can't work if drivers were Uber employees.

"If you converted 12,000 drivers into an employment model, it wouldn't work," he said.

The state-commissioned study calculated different options to bring driver pay up to minimum wage. One of the big remaining questions: should drivers be paid based on the time they are going to and conducting rides, or the time spent waiting for fares while active on the app?

Long said the working group agreed on rules that would make it easier for a driver who has been booted off the apps, or "deactivated," to appeal the ride-hailing app's decision, and had discussed additional insurance the companies could provide for drivers and passengers.

Though important committee deadlines passed last week, Fateh said legislative leaders have agreed to try to pass a package of ride-hailing regulations later this session.

"Everyone involved feels the same need to act on this issue as we did last year," Fateh said in an emailed response.

The announcements from Uber that it would leave the seven-county metro and from Lyft that it would no longer operate in the city of Minneapolis starting May 1 have not really changed DFL legislators' calculations, Long and Fateh said.

"Having Uber and Lyft say they want to leave the state certainly changes the tone of the conversation, but it doesn't change the fundamental task," Long said, of finding a base rate of pay that is fair for drivers and lets the companies make enough money.

Fateh shrugged at the apps' ultimatums.

"I don't believe that the companies will leave. They have made that threat in other places in other situations, and did not follow through," he said. "Besides that, we are doing this work in response to the needs of workers, and not responding to corporate threats."

Long said if Lyft and Uber cannot figure out how to provide service and a minimum wage for drivers, other companies who can might come into Minnesota. Minneapolis is thinking about providing seed capital to a competitor.

Ride-hailing apps provide a valuable service, Long said, but he does not want companies operating in Minnesota that do not pay state minimum wages and offer basic worker protections. Yet he still thinks compromise is possible.

"I think we have a path forward and we are working hard to get an agreement that we can pass this year and sign into law," Long said.
KYODO NEWS - Mar 27, 2024 - 23:24 | All, Japan

Japan aims to develop a next-generation passenger aircraft around 2035 and establish a domestic industry by drawing from the lessons learned from the failure of a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.-led project to launch the country's first passenger jet, the government said Wednesday.

The plan was outlined in the government's aircraft industry strategy, which was endorsed the same day. The strategy aims to mobilize a combined 5 trillion yen ($33 billion) in public and private investment over the next 10 years toward decarbonizing the whole sector by 2050.

The new aircraft is expected to be fueled by hydrogen, among other options, but not traditional jet oil, as the growing push for decarbonized transport options drives innovation. In recent years, global airlines have started using sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF, made from materials such as waste food and plants.

The aircraft industry is expected to be a growth driver for Japan, with a homegrown aircraft benefitting a slew of domestic component suppliers, according to officials of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

The latest move came after Mitsubishi Heavy pulled the plug on its project to roll out Japan's first homegrown passenger jet, SpaceJet, last year, citing a lack of know-how and mounting costs.

The development of the SpaceJet, formerly known as the Mitsubishi Regional Jet, began in 2008 with the help of 50 billion yen in financial aid from the industry ministry, but the delivery schedule was postponed six times before coronavirus pandemic disruptions dealt the final blow to the project.

Mitsubishi Heavy made military aircraft, including the Zero fighter, during World War II.

Industry experts say that the company's strategy to stick to in-house development rather than collaborating with outside talent was partly responsible for the failure, which eventually cost around 1 trillion yen.

The new aircraft development project is likely to involve multiple companies instead of a single firm, the government strategy indicated.

"It is our mission to take full advantage of know-how and experiences (gained from the regional jet project)," said Kazuchika Iwata, a senior vice minister of the industry ministry, who attended the panel meeting that drew up the strategy.

The panel cited a combination of factors that led to the failure of the regional jet project, including uncertainty surrounding the market environment and insufficient government engagement in the process.

However, the panel also said that the foundation for developing new aircraft has been nearly laid, along with an accumulation of talent and know-how.

The development of the new plane is expected to leverage Japan's technologies and experiences in areas such as aircraft bodies, engines and equipment, potentially leading to the establishment of final assembly plants in the country.

Related coverage:

Honda names new plane "HondaJet Echelon," plans first flight in 2026

Mitsubishi Heavy gives up 1st Japan-made passenger jet project
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  The body of a missing Arkansas woman believed to be suffering from dementia was found Tuesday in a body of water, Poinsett County authorities said.

Marsha Williams left her daughters residence near Harrisburg between 5 and 7 a.m. Sunday, authorities said. She was on foot wearing red and white pajamas, and may have been confused.

She was found around 1 p.m. Tuesday off Highway 163. Her body is being sent to the Arkansas state crime lab.

No foul play is suspected, Poiinsett County authorities said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Angelia Tutt wasnt the least bit surprised to learn she was expecting a second set of twins.

I was like, Of course I am, Tutt, who has a twin brother, tells TODAY.com. My mom had two sets of twins. My grandma had a set of twins, my great-grandma had a set of twins.

However, Tutt was surprised to find herself surrounded by twins in the delivery room at Cone Health Womens & Childrens Center in Greensboro, North Carolina.

There were a lot of people in there and they were all saying, Im a twin, also! Tutt says.

Twins (Courtesy Cone Health)

According to a hospital news release, three medical professionals in the room, including the doctor who delivered Tutts babies, are twins themselves.

It was a cool experience, Tutt says. "It felt lucky."

Tutts sons Kendrick and Cairo, were born on March 3, and are now 3-weeks-old. She and her husband, Elliott McNeil, are also parents of 13-month-old twin boys Elliott and Zion, and Karlie, 6.

When I was growing up, I always told my mom that I wanted to be just like her, Tutt says. Everything that she would do, I would say I was gonna do also. And look! Now I have two sets of twins just like her.

Twin births account for 3% of all live births, according to Dr. Michael Cackovic associate of professor of maternal fetal medicine at The Ohio State University.

Cackovic previously told TODAY.com that some groups have a higher prevalence of twins. He pointed to Igbo-Ora, Nigeria, which has one of the highest rates of twin births in the world.

About 50 in a thousand are twin births, Cackovic said. Their makeup is that they super ovulate. They ovulate more than one egg.

Other risk factors for twin pregnancies include use of fertility treatments, older maternal age, higher BMI and having a family history of twins on the mothers side, according to Dr. Thomas Molinaro, a reproductive endocrinologist at RMA of New Jersey.

While it seems unlikely to have two sets of twins with a probability of about 1 per 10,000, it may be higher in women with a strong family history, Molinaro previously told TODAY.com.

And Tutt definitely has that!

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
On Tuesday night, officials gave a grim update on the bridge collapse in Baltimore.

We do not believe that were going to find any of these individuals still alive, said U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Doherty.

Operations went from search and rescue to recovery. Dive crews will be back out first thing Wednesday morning searching for at least six victims who fell into frigid waters after a 985-foot cargo ship crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

We got very difficult water temperatures, you have structures from the bridge in the water that can move with the tides and currents, making that dangerous for divers and people in the water to actually try to do recovery, said Doherty.

Read: Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse: 6 missing people presumed dead; active search suspended

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (AP Photo/Steve Ruark)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (AP Photo/Steve Ruark)

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sit on the water after it collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The collapsed steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and a section of the roadway still upright (L) sit on the water after the bridge collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sit on the water after it collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

Baltimore Fire Department Chief James Wallace, with Police Commissioner Richard Worley (R) and Mayor Brandon Scott (2nd R), speaks at a press conference on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed early March 26 after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

A section of the roadway still stands after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after it was struck by a container ship, in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

A US Coast Guard helicopter flies over the Dali container vessel after it struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

TOPSHOT - The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

TOPSHOT - The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is shown early morning, Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from Riviera Beach, Md. A container ship rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap in a few places and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers were initially searching for at least seven people. (AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren)

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is shown early morning, Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from Riviera Beach, Md. A container ship rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap in a few places and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers were initially searching for at least seven people. (AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren)

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is shown early morning, Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from Riviera Beach, Md. A container ship rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap in a few places and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers were initially searching for at least seven people. (AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren)

As first responders focus on the victims, transportation officials are also trying to minimize supply chain impacts, as one of the largest ports in the country is now closed.

The path to normalcy will not be easy, it will not be quick, it will not be inexpensive, but we will rebuild together, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said.

I feel for all those people in Baltimore right now, said Michael Rubin, the CEO of The Florida Ports Council.

He told Eyewitness News had been in talks all day Tuesday, working to figure out how ports in the Sunshine State can help.

Read: Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse: Here are major US bridge collapses caused by vessels

We have the capacity in Florida to handle additional cargo and cruise vessels, and we are more than willing to help with that supply chain stuff, said Rubin.

He added that while the exact impacts on the supply chain are still unclear, he doesnt believe they will be significant.

You may see a delay of a couple of days for cargo that moves through there, but its not like youre going to have vessels waiting to get into the Port of Baltimore. Theyre going to go somewhere else some U.S. seaport, certainly Florida will be one of them, said Rubin.

Read: Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse: What to know about the Port of Baltimore

The Federal Government has pledged to help get operations back up and running as soon as possible.

Its one of the most important elements for the economy in the Northeast, said President Joe Biden. Im directing my team to move heaven and earth to open the port and rebuild the bridge as soon as humanly possible.

Governor Ron Desantis posted on X that hes making Florida state resources available to Maryland.

I have directed @FLSERT to offer assistance to the State of Maryland, if needed, following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.



The State of Florida stands willing to help and our prayers are with the victims and first responders.  Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) March 26, 2024

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating what led to the crash.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Russian investigators went to Tajikistan on March 26 to question the families of the suspects of the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack, Reuters reported, citing sources from the Tajik security services.

Separately, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's Tajik service published an article on March 27 containing a series of interviews with the family members, many of whom said they found it hard to believe the men would have been motivated by extremist Islamic beliefs.

Several gunmen opened fire at the Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, northwest of Moscow, on the evening of March 22, killing at least 139 people and injuring over 120. A branch of the Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility for the attack shortly thereafter.

Russian authorities are currently holding eight people in pre-trial detention in connection with the terrorist attack, seven of whom are from Tajikistan. An eighth suspect from Kyrgyzstan was brought into court in Russia on March 26.

Four of those detained are Tajik men accused of personally carrying out the attack. They appeared in court showing clear signs of abuse, following videos and pictures that were widely circulated on Russian social media depicting their alleged torture at the hands of Russian authorities.

Read also: Russias response to terrorist attack, alleged torture of suspects, follows pattern of abuse in Ukraine

Russian investigators went to the Tajik capital Dushanbe on March 26 to question the suspects' families, the sources told Reuters.

Tajik President Emomali Rakhmon is reportedly "overseeing the investigation on the Tajik side," the sources said.

The families and acquaintances of two of the suspects, Faridun Shamsiddin and Muhammadsobir Faizov, told RFE/RL that the two men were non-practicing Muslims who drank alcohol and enjoyed parties. A relative of Shamsiddin's said that he "could not have killed a sparrow. He was a coward."

RFE/RL reported that Shamsiddin is a convicted sex offender and had been sentenced to seven years in prison, but was released in 2020.

Faizov, who is 19 years old, had worked as a fruit seller in St. Petersburg, his mother told RFE/RL.

"He's not a person who would do something like this. He must have been brainwashed by someone," his mother said, adding that she had talked to him one day before the attacks.

"We spoke twice that day, in the morning and evening. He would only say that he was doing well and asked about me. He talked about his job and said everything will be fine."

Hours after the attack, Russian President Vladimir Putin attempted to connect the attack to Kyiv, claiming that the detained suspects planned to flee to Ukraine. Later, he recognized that the terrorist attack "was committed by radical Islamists" but still alleged that Ukraine was to blame without providing evidence.

The White House has said there was no indication that Ukraine was behind the Moscow attack.

Read also: Opinion: Why ISIS attacked Russia and why Russia blames Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Most Americans now disapprove of Israels war in Gaza, a new poll has found.

Some 55 per cent disapprove of Israels ongoing offensive in the besieged territory, while 36 per cent approve, according to the Gallup poll released on Wednesday.

It is the first time a poll has found that a majority of Americans do not support the war, a significant shift from when the same survey in November found most were in favour.

The survey comes nearly six months into Israels war, which has killed more than 32,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children, and brought Gaza to the brink of famine.

Israel has been accused by aid groups, and the British government, of deliberately blocking aid into Gaza by closing all but one crossing.

The lack of food entering the besieged strip has brought more than one million people close to catastrophic hunger levels, according to the World Health Organization.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called it a moral outrage that Israel was blocking aid during a visit to the border last week.

Israels offensive was launched in response to a Hamas attack in southern Israel that killed 1,200 people. More than 200 people were kidnapped and taken back into Gaza.

The Gallup survey, which was conducted from March 1 to 20, found a drop in support for the war among all three major party groups. The biggest decline was found among Democrats and independents, which both saw an 18 per cent drop. There was also a seven-point decline among Republicans.

President Joe Bidens approval rating for his handling of the situation in the Middle East sank to its lowest ever, at 27 per cent.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the civilian death toll in Gaza is far too high ahead of a meeting with his Israeli counterpart on Tuesday.

Speaking at the Pentagon just prior to a sit-down with Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant, Mr Austin also made an urgent call for Israel to increase the amount of aid it is allowing into Gaza to prevent a famine.

In Gaza today, the number of civilian casualties is far too high and the amount of humanitarian aid is far too low, he said. He added that Gaza is currently suffering a humanitarian catastrophe and called for "immediate increases in assistance to avert famine.

The comments represent a rare public rebuke by the US of its close ally Israel.

The meeting came one day after the US withheld its veto at the United Nations Security Council for the first time since the war began and allowed the body to pass a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the war  something the Biden administration had blocked three times before in support of Israels desire to continue its offensive into southern Gaza.

Israels prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu cancelled the planned visit of a high-level delegation to Washington DC in protest, and accused the US of retreating from what he said had been a principled position.
Story at a glance

A recent Pew Research Center survey found that 88 percent of American adults think cannabis should be legal for medical or recreational use.

Since 2012, 24 states have legalized cannabis for either medical or recreational purposes.

Pew found that while most people think cannabis should be legal, opinions vary on what the consequences of that legalization are.

Most Americans  88 percent  think cannabis should be legal for medical or recreational use, according to a recently published Pew Research Center survey.

Close to six out of 10 Americans believe marijuana should be legal for medical and recreational purposes, while about a third think that cannabis should only be legal for medical use.

Meanwhile, 11 percent of Americans think the drug should not be legal at all.

While the majority of Americans think cannabis should be legal in some form, they differ in opinions on the consequences of legalization.

About half of Americans  52 percent  think legalizing recreational cannabis is good for local economies, while 29 percent think it will have no impact and 17 percent think it is bad.

Almost half of adults  42 percent  think legalizing marijuana for recreational use makes the criminal justice system more fair, according to the 5,140-person survey.

Another 38 percent of Americans think it has no impact on the fairness of the criminal justice system, while 18 percent think it makes the system less fair.

About 30 percent of Americans think legalizing cannabis for recreational use increases the use of other drugs like heroin, fentanyl and cocaine.

Meanwhile, 27 percent think it decreases the use of those drugs and 42 percent think it has no impact on other drug use, according to the survey.

Almost half of Americans  44 percent  dont think recreational cannabis legalization has an impact on community safety, while 34 percent think it makes communities less safe and 21 percent believe it makes them safer.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
MOUNT CARMEL, Tenn. (WJHL)  Mount Carmel Elementary School in Hawkins County hosted its STEAM Night on Tuesday.

The students had an exciting night filled with science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) related activities. The event was hosted by Hands-On Museum, Bays Mountain, the STREAMWorks organization, 4H and ETSU.

News Channel 11 spoke with Kim McCann, 4th grade teacher at Mount Carmel Elementary.

Johnson City youth football and cheer registration begins Tuesday

Every activity that is set up has to do with math and science or some arts and its fun things, its hands-on that theyre doing, that even though its fun and theyre enjoying themselves, theyre learning, McCann said.

The Wildcats were enthusiastic and ready to learn.

I teach fourth grade, and I had kindergartners and first-graders come up to me saying, Ms. McCann, I cant wait to see the drones! And, what are we making with the little marbles in the paint?'

As a dedicated educator, McCann said she knew STEAM Night was the place for her, too.

Just to walk in and to hear the excitement, to see the different activities going on. To me, that lets me know Im where I need to be.

According to McCann, the school hopes to upgrade STEAM Night with a larger event in the fall. They hope to include other schools from the area and plan to focus more on reading and writing, as well.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
Kansas lawmakers have crafted a new bipartisan tax plan that could provide relief on income, property and sales taxes.

After House Republican leadership moved on from the divisive flat tax proposal, the House unanimously passed a new tax cut package Wednesday morning. That came after taking up its tax plan in Senate Bill 300 Tuesday evening, debating and making amendments until about 10 p.m.

"This is a true compromise tax relief plan with real bipartisan support," House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, said in a statement. "The Governor should sign this bill because it delivers the broad-based property, income, and Social Security tax relief that Kansans want and need while upgrading to a more regionally competitive tax structure."

While Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly has indicated at least some openness to the bill, it remains to be seen whether it will reach her desk.

From left, House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, Rep. Adam Smith, R-Weskan, House Majority Leader Chris Croft, R-Overland Park, and Speaker Pro Tem Blake Carpenter, R-Derby, have a news conference on a tax cut plan after moving on from the flat tax proposal.

It first would have to get approval from the Senate, where Republican leadership hasn't moved on from the flat tax since the Legislature's failure to override Kelly's veto of House Bill 2284. The Senate earlier this month passed Senate Bill 539, which takes a phased approached to imposing a flat tax.

House speaker said chamber couldn't override veto on flat tax

Hawkins told reporters last week that House GOP leadership moved on from the flat tax because it became clear they wouldn't have the votes to override a veto. So their new plan would go from the current three income tax brackets to two.

The flat tax was criticized by Democrats and a handful of Republicans for providing little benefit for the middle class while mostly benefitting the poorest and richest Kansans.

"I know with what we listened to in opposition to the single rate, we weren't doing enough for that middle," said Rep. Adam Smith, R-Weskan, explaining that adopting a two tax brackets instead of a single rate is better for those in the middle.

Kelly told reporters last week that it is her preference to stick with the current three brackets.

"It's progress; it gives us something to talk about," she said of the new House plan. "I can't tell you that the actual bill is acceptable, but I do see it as an opportunity to engage in conversation with the Legislature to come up with something that works for all of us."

Since her comments, some of the details of the package have changed as the House adopted and rejected a slew of amendments by Democrats and Republicans.

Many amendments to new tax plan rejected

Smith discouraged certain proposed additions, likening it to trying to grab too many cookies at once from a cookie jar.

He said the target was a tax package totaling no more than $500 million a year, as House budgeters view that as sustainable. An updated fiscal note on the amended version of the plan wasn't immediately available.

Among other pieces in the tax package are increasing the standard deduction, elimination of state income taxes on Social Security, cutting taxes on banks, increasing the residential exemption on a state property tax, decreasing the mill levy of a state property tax and accelerating elimination of the food sales tax.

But the details of the House tax plan are expected to further change in conference committee negotiations with the Senate  which could risk losing the support of House Democrats.

House Minority Leader Vic Miller, D-Topeka, urged the House not to let that happen.

"Do not let the other side mess with this package," Miller said. "I think this may be what people out across the state have been looking for. Hang tight if this goes to conference."

He voted for the bill "because there's a lot of good things in it," despite failing to convince his colleagues to remove the abolition of a program used for local property tax relief.

"I don't know if you all are having the same feeling I am, but I got to tell you I am really proud of the House of Representatives and what we did yesterday," Hawkins said during the vote. "Really amazing what happens when everybody works together. I don't have any other words to say except thank you. You guys are awesome."

Jason Alatidd is a Statehouse reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal. He can be reached by email at jalatidd@gannett.com. Follow him on X @Jason_Alatidd.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas Republicans, Democrats back new tax cut plan with no flat tax
KYODO NEWS - Mar 27, 2024 - 21:41 | All, Japan

Japan plans to upgrade five airports and 11 ports, designating them for use by the country's defense forces and coast guard in case of military emergencies, a government source said Wednesday, with concerns lingering over China's maritime assertiveness and a potential conflict over Taiwan.

Nearly half of the 16 commercial facilities, which include Naha and Nagasaki airports, are located either in Okinawa Prefecture or the southwestern main island of Kyushu, apparently reflecting Japan's efforts to beef up defense around its far-flung southwest islands.

The plan is expected to be approved soon at a meeting of related ministers, paving the way for the project to commence in the next fiscal year starting April. An allocation of 35 billion yen ($230 million) is anticipated for the first year.

Longer runways and aprons are expected to be built at the designated airports for use by fighter jets and transport aircraft. Ports will need docks that can accommodate destroyers and other large ships.

The Japanese government stipulated in its National Security Strategy endorsed in 2022 the need to enhance the functions of public infrastructure, such as airports and seaports, so that the Self-Defense Forces and the Japan Coast Guard can better respond to the protection of its nationals and deployment during contingencies.

While the upgrade of the facilities could benefit locals by enabling their use for commercial logistics, tourism, and disaster response, concerns remain that the sites could become targets of armed attacks in contingencies.

The SDF and coast guard will also use the sites to conduct exercises.

Local governments that manage the designated facilities will sign documents with the central government regarding their use by the SDF and the coast guard in routine operations and emergencies.

The five designated airports are located in four prefectures -- Fukuoka, Nagasaki and Miyazaki, as well as Okinawa, which hosts the bulk of U.S. military facilities in Japan.

Of the 11 ports, five are in the northern main island of Hokkaido, home to many SDF units, four are in Kagawa and Kochi prefectures in the western main island of Shikoku, and one each in Fukuoka and Okinawa prefectures.

In recent years, Japan has been reinforcing the defense capabilities of remote islands in the southwest amid tensions over the Senkaku Islands, a group of Tokyo-controlled uninhabited islets in the East China Sea that China claims and calls Diaoyu.

A contingency over Taiwan, which China views as its own territory, is also concerning for Japan, a U.S. security ally, given the self-ruled island's proximity to Japan's southwestern islands.

Related coverage:

Weapon export rules eased to allow Japan to sell fighter jets

U.S. military to strengthen functions of Japan command headquarters

Japan GSDF resumes Osprey flights near Tokyo after fatal U.S. crash
Editors Note: The above video aired in November of 2023, the month after Chyna Crawford was reported missing.

WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said officers arrested a woman in connection to the disappearance of a woman in Southwest D.C.

MPD said that 25-year-old Chyna Crawford, of Southwest, D.C. was reported missing on Oct. 26, 2023. Crawford last was seen on Oct. 23, 2023, at about 10 p.m. in the 4000 block of South Capitol St. SW.

Her family told DC News Now back in November that they were concerned for her safety. Her mother, Elisa Crawford, said at the time that it was unusual not to hear from her daughter.

Its the hardest thing I think Ive ever had to deal with in my life, Elisa Crawford told DC News Now in November. Thats not only my daughter, thats my friend.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Police searching for missing 25-year-old woman in DC

Police determined that the circumstances surrounding her disappearance were suspicious.

MPD said Lashawn Washington, 32, of Southeast was indicted on several charges and that a D.C. Superior Court bench warrant was issued for her arrest.

Police took Washington into custody on March 26. The charges against her are First Degree Murder-Felony Murder, Kidnapping, and Obstruction of Justice.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the police at (202) 727-9099.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
NEGAUNEE, Mich. (WJMN)  Police Officers have a mission to keep the community safe. A Michigan State Trooper at the Negaunee Post goes above and beyond that. He not only keeps the community protected, but also wants to educate as well.

So, we are privileged to work with State Trooper Aaron Griffin, who was selected as the 2024 Officer of the Year for Marquette County, said Lt. Mark Giannunzio, a Public Information Officer for MSP. Trooper Griffin has been with us for a couple of years now. He is an outstanding member of the Michigan State Police. All other members and I here at the post congratulate him, we are honored to work with him. We are learning things from him every day, even with 25 years in he blows me away with the amount of knowledge that he has about law enforcement compared to what I have. I am always looking to him for guidance for instruction for our younger troopers and even some of us older members of the department. He is an outstanding trooper and well deserving of this award.

Aaron Griffin have been a police officer for 13 years and just celebrated his two-year anniversary with the Michigan State Police.

Being a part of the Michigan State Police has been a blessing, said Aaron Griffin, Michigan State Police Trooper. It is definitely the best law enforcement position I have held in my career. The unity, teamwork, bonding that we have at the post is incompletable than the other positions I have held. I am not an award-seeking trooper, but it is a very humbling experience to say the least.

For Griffin, it has been a long journey to get where he is today. Each moment of the experience has been challenging but also exciting for him.

It was a long journey. I went through a regional police academy, the MSP Lateral Recruit School, amongst many other trainings throughout my career to get to this point All of which have been quite demanding, exciting, challenging, taxing, but in the end very rewarding, said Griffin. Traditionally not an award seeking trooper, but it is a very humbling experience to say the least so. I am very grateful for the opportunity to have been selected. Very thankful for those that felt that I did deserve this award, and I am at a loss for words for that.

If you want to learn more about the Michigan State Police or find more information on how to be part of the Michigan State Police, click here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJMN - UPMatters.com.
BENTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  A suspect was shot by a Michigan State Police trooper in Benton Harbor Wednesday afternoon, police said.

It happened in the area of Emery Avenue and Monroe Street in Benton Township. The confrontation stemmed from a traffic stop where the suspect had a federal warrant, according to MSP. Officers were on both sides of the vehicle when the suspect reversed, hitting an officer with the Benton Harbor Police Department. An MSP trooper fired at the suspect.

The suspect was injured and taken to the hospital but has been released. The suspect is now headed to jail, a spokesperson for MSP said.

The Benton Harbor officer who was hit by the car has a leg injury, according to MSP.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

In a social media post, MSP asked people to stay away from the scene following the shooting.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) Wednesday afternoon, the Muscogee County School District (MCSD) held a community forum to discuss the 2024 Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (E-SPLOST) renewal campaign.

The E-SPLOST is a local one-cent sales tax to support the education capital expenses and day-to-day operational needs of the district. The funding is used to maintain aging facilities, upgrade HVAC systems, purchase new buses and construct new buildings.

Some of the most notable E-SPLOST projects are the Columbus Museum renovations, Otis Spencer Stadium construction and Jordan Vocational High School upgrades.

According to Dr. Travis Anderson, chief operations officer for MCSD, funding is vital to support the growth of students and the community.

We are not able to provide for our capital expenses without a E-SPLOST. Were excited that our community has been able to support this for so many years. And we hope that they will vote to extend the existing campaign, said Dr. Anderson.

E-SPLOST renewal will be on the ballot in the May 21 primaries. If renewed, the tax will last five more years, or until 290 million dollars are collected. The Muscogee County School District will host another community forum March 26, at 6 p.m. at Aaron Cohn Middle School.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
Elon Musk announced Tuesday his artificial intelligence company xAIs chatbot Grok will be available to all premium subscribers on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Later this week, Grok will be enabled for all premium subscribers (not just premium+), Musk wrote Tuesday on X, without providing additional details.

The chatbot was previously only available for users with Xs highest subscription level, Premium+, which includes no advertisements on the For You and Following feeds and access to Articles  an X feature for long-form written content.

Earlier this month, Musk announced xAI will open source Grok shortly after suing OpenAI  the maker of ChatGPT  for failing to remain open source.

Musk, who helped found OpenAI in 2015, sued company CEO Sam Altman and co-founder Greg Brockman for breach of content, arguing the pair strayed from OpenAIs founding agreement in partnering with Microsoft.

Musk said he, Altman and Brockman agreed at the time of the companys founding that OpenAI would be a nonprofit that developed artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity and would remain open source.

Musk argued that the company instead is developing AI technology to maximize profits for Microsoft and has not released details about the internal design of its latest AI model to serve the proprietary commercial interest of Microsoft.

OpenAI shot back earlier this month and claimed Musk supported turning the company into a for-profit entity and was looking for OpenAI to merge with Tesla  Musks automotive company.

Musks decision to open source Grok will enable researchers and developers to build on the model amid competition from OPenAI, Google, Meta and more, The Verge reported earlier this month.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya were driven into Bangladesh in a crackdown now subject to a UN genocide investigation (CHAIDEER MAHYUDDIN)

Myanmar's military was behind dozens of seemingly unrelated Facebook pages spewing hate speech against the Rohingya prior to its dramatic 2017 crackdown against the mostly Muslim minority, a UN probe found Wednesday.

Facebook has long been accused of helping spread vast amounts of hate speech against the Rohingya before hundreds of thousands of them were driven into neighbouring Bangladesh in a crackdown now subject to a UN genocide investigation.

In late 2021, Rohingya refugees sued Facebook for $150 billion, claiming the social network failed to stem the hate speech directed against them.

Now, the United Nations' Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) says there is clear evidence Myanmar's military secretly orchestrated the hate speech campaign.

The military had in a "systematic and coordinated" manner "spread material designed to instil fear and hatred of the Rohingya minority", the investigators said in a fresh report.

"It accomplished this by creating a clandestine network of pages on a social media site with the potential to reach an audience of millions."

- 'Interconnected network' -

The IIMM was established by the UN Human Rights Council in 2018 to collect evidence of the most serious international crimes and prepare files for criminal prosecution.

Its new analysis looked at content posted on 43 Facebook pages between July and December 2017.

That report found that seemingly unrelated pages, most of them with no outward affiliation to the military and including some devoted to celebrity news and popular culture, "formed an interconnected network -- the Military Network -- on Facebook".

The report identified 10,485 items with hate speech on the pages, and which Facebook removed from its platform in August 2018.

The investigators had identified hate speech content on six pages that were removed for being connected to 20 individuals and organisations banned by Facebook for human rights violations. All but one of which was overtly associated with the military.

The investigators also examined 37 other pages with no outward affiliation to the military, taken down due to so-called "inauthentic behaviour", detecting hate speech content on 30 of those pages.

- 'Excused and promoted violence' -

The "hate speech content often played upon prevalent discriminatory and derogatory narratives concerning the Rohinguya, it said. These ranged from the narrative that the Rohingya pose an existential threat to Myanmar through violence, terrorism or 'Islamisation'".

Some of the hate speech also played "to the narrative that they pose a threat to Burmese racial purity through their alleged rampant breeding".

The connections between the pages were seen in various ways: they often shared creators, administrators, and editors, and regularly posted material using the same IP addresses used by the Myanmar military.

"Identical material was often posted on multiple pages in this network, sometimes within minutes," the IIMM said.

The investigators highlighted that the military's hate speech campaign "was ongoing at the very time that many Rohingya villages were burned and while thousands of Rohingya men, women and children were beaten, sexually assaulted and/or killed".

And, they pointed out, it had "continued as hundreds of thousands of Rohingya were forced to flee from their homes.

"Rather than taking all steps to prevent the violence and protect its people, the Myanmar military conducted a social media campaign that excused and promoted violence against the Rohingya minority."

nl/rjm/jj
SHAKOPEE, Minn.  Minnesota-based MyPillow will face eviction from its Minneapolis suburban facility after CEO and election denier Mike Lindell failed to pay rent.

A Scott County judge plans to approve the landlord's request to vacate the property, The Star Tribune reported. The Chaska-headquartered company was over $200,000 behind on payments over the past six months.

Sign up for Your Vote: Text USA TODAY reporters and the elections team by joining our SMS service.

Fiscally floundering

The entrepreneur gained notoriety for his backing of former President Donald Trump and his advocacy of conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and elections.

Mike Lindell, the My Pillow Inc chief executive greets Trump supporters as they wait along the motorcade route for former President Donald Trump to return home to Mar-a Lago following his arraignment in New York on April 4, 2023.

In October, Lindell's lawyers said that he was out of money and was unable to pay them for their work on a defamation lawsuit. Last month, Lindell was ordered to pay $5 million to a man who disproved the CEO's claim that China interfered with the 2020 election results. The $1.3 billion defamation case from Dominion Voting Systems stemming from his baseless voter fraud allegations is still ongoing.

Lindell told local media outlet, the Minnesota Reformer, that his financial situation is "fine" and that the warehouse was mainly being used for retail equipment, most of which was auctioned off last year due to retailers dropping the product.

Lindell still owns and operates a second main warehouse location, as well as a retail outlet in Shakopee. To this day, he is adamant that the election was stolen.

 Sam Woodward is the Minnesota elections reporting fellow for USA Today. You can reach her at swoodward@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Mike Lindell to be evicted from MyPillow location, failed to pay rent
SHAKOPEE, Minn.  Minnesota-based MyPillow will face eviction from its Minneapolis suburban facility after CEO and election denier Mike Lindell failed to pay rent.

A Scott County judge plans to approve the landlord's request to vacate the property, The Star Tribune reported. The Chaska-headquartered company was over $200,000 behind on payments over the past six months.

Sign up for Your Vote: Text USA TODAY reporters and the elections team by joining our SMS service.

Fiscally floundering

The entrepreneur gained notoriety for his full-throated support of former President Donald Trump while promoting conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and elections. Lindell used his national platform to spread misinformation about the 2020 election, and now, he's facing the consequences.

Mike Lindell, the My Pillow Inc chief executive greets Trump supporters as they wait along the motorcade route for former President Donald Trump to return home to Mar-a Lago following his arraignment in New York on April 4, 2023.

In October, Lindell's lawyers said he was out of money and unable to pay them for their work on a defamation lawsuit. Last month, Lindell was ordered to pay $5 million to a man who disproved the CEO's claim that China interfered with the 2020 election results. The $1.3 billion defamation case from Dominion Voting Systems stemming from his baseless voter fraud allegations is still ongoing.

Lindell told local media outlet, the Minnesota Reformer, that his financial situation is "fine" and that the warehouse was mainly being used for retail equipment, most of which was auctioned off last year due to retailers dropping the product.

Lindell continues to own and operate a second central warehouse location as well as a retail outlet in Shakopee. He maintains his belief that the 2020 election was stolen from Trump.

 Sam Woodward is the Minnesota elections reporting fellow for USA Today. You can reach her at swoodward@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Mike Lindell to be evicted from MyPillow location, failed to pay rent
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A woman wanted on three counts of child abuse is the newest addition to Nashvilles list of Most Wanted fugitives.

The police departments list of Top 10 Most Wanted fugitives is updated every Wednesday on the Criminal Warrants Divisions Facebook page. Each week it features 10 people who police said are considered to be some of the most violent offenders in the city.

Nashville attempted homicide suspect arrested after months-long search

Of the suspects on this weeks list, almost half are wanted on homicide, attempted homicide or murder charges. The rest of Nashvilles Most Wanted suspects are accused of crimes such as rape, child abuse, burglary and aggravated assault.

Police have been trying to track down most of the people on this weeks list for months, or in some cases, years. However, one new person has been added to the list. Officials said the woman is wanted on multiple child abuse charges involving a child 8 years old or younger.

While the search for these suspects continues, the Most Wanted list has aided police in several arrests. In total, at least 95 Most Wanted fugitives have been taken into custody since the program was launched in October 2022  13 of which have been within the last two months.

Nashville child rape suspect arrested in Oklahoma City after LPR cameras detect his vehicle

Just last week, authorities in Oklahoma City arrested one of Nashvilles Most Wanted fugitives after a license plate recognition (LPR) camera alerted police to his vehicle. Officials said a grand jury indicted 38-year-old Seth Taylor earlier in March after he repeatedly raped a 12-year-old girl years prior.

According to investigators, tips from the public have also been vital in several Most Wanted arrests. Below is a list of the suspects who made the police departments Top 10 Most Wanted list the week of March 27.

1. Lagarrion L. Blacksmith

Lagarrion Blacksmith (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

At number one, Lagarrion Blacksmith, 34, is considered this weeks Top Most Wanted fugitive, according to the MNPD. He was added to the list on Nov. 29, 2023, after police were reportedly able to connect him to a deadly shooting that took place outside a Dickerson Pike bar last year.

Officers said they found 35-year-old Chancellor Eddins lying on the ground just outside of Trvth Lounge on Feb. 18, 2023. He had been shot and later died at the scene. Another man who had also been hit by the gunfire was able to give officers an account of what happened.

RELATED: Man wanted for homicide, other charges following fatal February shooting on Dickerson Pike

According to police, the injured man told them he and Eddins had gotten into an argument with the suspect inside of the bar. Then, shots were fired as they left the location. At the time, the identity of the alleged shooter was unclear.

Months later, investigators announced Blacksmith had been identified as a suspect. On Nov. 22, 2023, officials said arrest warrants had been issued against Blacksmith for criminal homicide, attempted homicide, and felon in possession of a handgun.

However, efforts to locate him have reportedly been unsuccessful. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the MNPD at 615-862-8600 or Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

2. Raceme Crutcher

Raceme Crutcher (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Police have been looking for Raceme Crutcher, 22, since July 2023, when he was named as one of two suspects in a deadly Fourth of July shooting.

Officials said the shooting happened at the Fallbrook Apartments on Dellway Villa Road. Etabo Malanda, 16, was reportedly standing on the porch of an apartment when two armed individuals came from around the corner and confronted him.

RELATED: Teen killed in shooting at East Nashville apartment complex

Malanda allegedly tried to pull out a pistol that was inside his hoodie, but he was shot. Police said he died shortly after he was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

According to investigators, four guns were recovered from the apartment, including one that was reported stolen. Crutcher and 17-year-old Jaylin Brown were reportedly connected to the crime through witness accounts.

Investigators also obtained surveillance footage and additional information from community members that they said pointed to Crutcher and Brown as suspects in the case. Officials believe the motive may have been an ongoing dispute between the suspects and Malanda.

SEE ALSO: Teen wanted in connection with deadly Fourth of July shooting arrested

Brown was taken into custody on Aug. 31, 2023, after police reportedly caught him driving a stolen car. However, authorities said Crutcher is still on the run. He was added to the Most Wanted list on Nov. 15, 2023. His last location is unknown.

3. Kejuan Jordan-Cole

Kejuan Jordan-Cole (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Kejuan Jordan-Cole, 22, is believed to be one of seven suspects involved in another deadly shooting on the Fourth of July, according to officials.

RELATED: Man dead after 7 people reportedly shot at him on Buena Vista Pike

Investigators said the victim, 27-year-old Christopher L. Harris, was found with multiple gunshot wounds inside his vehicle on Buena Vista Pike. Witnesses told police a group of young men approached Harris and around seven of them opened fire.

Harris was reportedly struck by the gunfire while standing next to his vehicle. Officers told News 2 as many as 100 rounds may have been fired during the incident.

The suspects  one of whom appeared to be shooting a rifle  left the scene in three separate vehicles, officials reported. Since the shooting, authorities have arrested and charged 16-year-old Jaden Wright, 17-year-old Erion Nesbitt, 16-year-old Kentrell Baugh and 23-year-old Deandre Jordan.

SEE ALSO: Metro police arrest 4th of 7 suspects from deadly July 4 shooting in Bordeaux

However, police said Jordan-Cole, who was identified as a suspect on Aug. 16, 2023, is still on the run. The charges against him include criminal homicide and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

He was added to the list on Dec. 13, 2023. Officials said his last location is unknown.

4. Tyrone D. Walker

Tyrone D. Walker (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Tyrone Walker, 29, has repeatedly appeared on the list since July 12, 2023, after being named in a grand jury indictment charging him with first-degree murder.

Police said the charge is related to the August 2021 shooting death of Cecil Holmes Jr. The 39-year-old was reportedly found dead in the Edgehill Homes parking lot on 11th Avenue South after being shot multiple times.

RELATED: Police searching for suspect charged in 2021 Nashville apartments parking lot murder

Further investigation into Holmess death led to the identification of Walker as the suspected gunman, officials reported.

In addition to the murder charge, Walker has also been indicted on charges of felon in possession of a weapon, felony probation violation and four counts of failure to appear. Police said his last location is unknown.

5. Michael A. Yarlett

Michael A. Yarlett (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Michael Yarlett, 28, is wanted on three counts of aided and abetted rape, according to police.

Court documents indicate he is one of two suspects in the incident, which happened in September 2022. Yarlett was added to the Most Wanted list on Nov. 22, 2023. Officials said his last location is unknown.

6. Cameron J. Glenn

Cameron Glenn (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

While he was added to the list last month, this isnt the first time Cameron Glenn, 42, has appeared among Nashvilles Most Wanted fugitives. Glenn was initially added to the list in November 2022 following several alleged domestic violence incidents involving the same victim.

Glenn was accused of strangling and beating the woman on three separate occasions, causing visible injuries to her face, including redness, abrasions and a missing tooth. In one incident, authorities said Glenn pulled out a gun and threatened to kill her if she didnt do what he said.

PREVIOUS: Man accused of beating, threatening to kill woman arrested after 6-month search

Glenn was on the run until May 1, 2023, when officers found him at an apartment in the James Cayce neighborhood. After his arrest, Glenn was being held on a $60,000 bond. However, court records show many of the charges Glenn was initially arrested for have since been dismissed.

Now, police are looking for Glenn again following a grand jury indictment. The charges hes been indicted on include aggravated assault with serious bodily injury, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated assault by strangulation, child abuse, domestic assault and interference with an emergency call.

Authorities said his last location is unknown.

7. Aury T. Newsom

Aury Newsom (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Aury Newsom, 24, was added back to the list on March 13  more than a year after police began searching for him in connection with multiple outstanding warrants.

He first appeared on the Most Wanted list about a month after the program was launched in October 2022. At the time, he was listed as Nashvilles Top Most Wanted fugitive. However, he has reportedly continued to evade police.

SEE ALSO: Man sought for shooting girlfriend in East Nashville apartment with baby present

Officials said Newsom has now been indicted by a grand jury. The charges against him include eight counts of burglary, two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated child endangerment, reckless endangerment and vandalism.

According to police, Newsom was involved in a shooting in May 2022 that left his girlfriend seriously injured. Investigators said he shot the woman twice in the upper leg while she was holding their 3-month-old baby.

The woman ultimately survived her injuries, and the baby was not injured. Authorities said Newsom was last seen in East Nashville.

8. Jennifer Urbina

Jennifer Urbina (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Jennifer Urbina, 42, is a new addition to the list this week. Police said Urbina is wanted for three counts of child abuse involving a child 8 years old or younger, as well as one count of aggravated child neglect involving a child 8 years old or younger. She was last seen in Madison.

9. Ricky C. Roach

Ricky Roach (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Ricky Roach, 43, who was the subject of a massive manhunt in Cheatham County in 2022, is wanted by police after being indicted on multiple charges out of Davidson County.

Those charges include aggravated burglary, aggravated burglary acting in concert and theft of property less than $250,000. Court records show those offenses date back to March 4, 2022  only about two months before he escaped from corrections officers at an Ashland City hospital.

At the time, Roach was reportedly serving jail time in Cheatham County for a parole violation. Cheatham County court records indicate that Roach has previously pled guilty to charges for robbery, assault, theft and contempt of court.

SEE ALSO: New details released after escapees arrest caught on camera

After hours of searching, the May 26, 2022, manhunt ended when a reserve off duty Ashland City police officer spotted Roach and held him at gunpoint until other officers arrived.

Following his arrest, Cheatham County Sheriffs Office Lt. Ken Miller told News 2, Ive been dealing with Mr. Roach for quite some time, pretty much my whole career here actually.

Now, Metro Nashville police are looking for Roach in connection with more alleged crimes across county lines. Authorities said his last location is unknown.

10. Joseph Cavaleri

Joseph Cavaleri (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Joseph Cavaleri, 39, is wanted by the MNPD on outstanding warrants for five counts of burglary, three counts of theft of property, criminal impersonation, and four counts of failure to appear. Cavaleri was added to the list on Feb. 7. Authorities said he was last seen in the Central precinct.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

Anyone with information on any of the suspects listed is asked to contact the MNPD at 615-862-8600 or Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
NATO is not doing enough for Ukraine and some countries in the alliance dont understand that the conflict is here and that we need to deal with it, Swedens Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom told Euractiv on March 27.

We have to understand that Russia is a neighbor that is behaving irresponsibly, which is threatening the world with irresponsible nuclear threats and the idea of recreating its former empire at the expense of independent sovereign states We have to put an end to that, he said.

Sweden officially joined NATO on March 7, almost two years after it applied to join the alliance in a direct response to Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine and in a reversal of 200 years of formal military neutrality.

Billstrom said that in order to stop Russia we first of all have to stop the aggression against Ukraine.

Not all countries understand the sense of urgency to act that there is, he said, adding: NATO is not doing enough for Ukraine.

While being united as a bloc against Russias full-scale invasion, levels of support between NATO member states, as well as their public statements on the threat to European security that the Kremlin poses, vary.

NATO members geographically closer to Russia such as the Baltic states have been particularly outspoken.

On March 20, Estonian Prime Minister, Kaja Kallas, said a Russian defeat in Ukraine would help prevent World War III.

"(If) Russia (were to) lose this war, then we don't have to worry about the Third World War," Kallas said, adding that she does not seek active conflict with Russia.

"We want to have peace, but we want to have sustainable peace, and peace on Russia's terms is not sustainable."

Latvia last year reintroduced mandatory military service and Warsaw has begun building bomb shelters.Such levels of rhetoric and concern have been largely absent in Western European countries but in recent weeks, French President Emmanuel Macron called Russia's war against Ukraine "existential" for France and Europe and warned that Moscow's potential victory would "reduce Europe's credibility to zero."

Read also: Estonian PM: Russian defeat will help prevent WWIII

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabias new world-class airline, has joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the worlds largest corporate sustainability initiative that promotes responsible business practices and the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In a letter to Antonio Guterres UN Secretary General, Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas officially committed Riyadh Air to implementing the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact.

As active participants of the UNGC, Riyadh Air said it will adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies in areas such as human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption and report on progress on these efforts regularly.

As part of its aim to support the advancement of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) it said it will work alongside partners and stakeholders to drive progress towards these goals by 2030.

Riyadh Air will also publish its first Sustainability Report in advance of its maiden in mid-2025.

Douglas said: At Riyadh Air, we are conscious of our environmental impact and committed to actively contributing to the Kingdoms sustainability goals, adopting world-class practices and leading our industry in integrating ESG into every area of our business.

Our modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft and GeNX 1B engine are widely acknowledged for their improved environmental impact considerations, and more broadly ESG strategies are front and center to every aspect of how Riyadh Air operates.

We pledge to take no shortcuts and sustainability will run throughout the airline, from flight and ground operations to the office culture, to transportation and even to Riyadh Air employees at home. As a start-up airline this a golden opportunity to do the right thing in the right way, from Day 1.

Launched in July 2000 the UNGC is a voluntary UN agreement designed to encourage companies from around the world to develop, implement and disclose responsible and sustainable corporate policies and practices.

Through the UNGC, Riyadh Air will also benefit from access to a wide range of tools and resources to enhance learning, training and development for its team in all areas of sustainability.

Ibrahim Alhelali, Executive Director, UNGC said: "We are pleased to announce that Riyadh Air has joined the UN Global Compact network in Saudi Arabia. Their commitment to aviation sustainability is evident in their decision to join the network one year prior to commencing operations, showcasing their dedication to responsible business practices."

Set to take to the skies in 2025, Riyadh Air aims to become the worlds most forward-thinking carrier embracing the best sustainability practices, elevating air travel, and setting a new standard for reliability, comfort, and hospitality.

As a full-service and digitally-native carrier, Riyadh Air will pioneer new technologies and innovations whilst offering guests authentic and warm Saudi hospitality. Riyadh Air is set to fly to more than 100 destinations.  TradeArabia News Service
Ola Kaellenius, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes-Benz, receives an interview with Xinhua at the headquarters of Mercedes-Benz in Stuttgart, Germany, March 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Shan Weiyi)

STUTTGART, Germany, March 25 (Xinhua) -- The reason why Germany's leading luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz continues to invest in China is that the company believes in China and sees long-term opportunities, the company's top executive has said.

Ola Kaellenius, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes-Benz, told Xinhua in a recent interview that he saw great potential in the Chinese auto market, the biggest in the world.

Kaellenius believes that "there's definite growth potential" in China in the long term as car ownership rate in China still lags other mature markets in the world.

China, which is also the biggest and "hugely important" market for the German automaker, enjoys Kaellenius's close attention. "So I'm never out of China, even if I'm not physically in China."

The company is poised to bring into China's auto market a total of 15 new models, signaling intensifying efforts by the luxury automaker to consolidate its presence in the increasingly competitive auto market.

On March 1, Mercedes-Benz introduced four new versions of its new E-class model with lengthened wheelbases in China. Kaellenius pins high hopes on the new E class, which is one of the bestselling models of the company.

As part of what appears to be a two-pronged strategy in China, the German automaker plans to offer more new models, including both battery electric vehicles and "electrified high-tech combustion" vehicles, by the end of this decade.

Kaellenius disclosed that the company has increased the size of its R&D team in China over the past few years. Describing the innovations in China's auto industry as "vibrant," Kaellenius said: "We want to participate in that vibrant, innovative landscape."

The two R&D centers in Beijing and Shanghai enable the company to develop a wide array of new technologies for both the Chinese market and other markets in the world. "They are fully integrated in our global R&D effort."

Regarding the EU's probe into the so-called subsidy on Chinese vehicles, Kaellenius said "we should not get into the situation where trade barriers being raised in any directions."

It is "natural and normal" for auto companies to enter foreign markets given that the Chinese auto industry is "fully developed" and at "eye level" with any other auto industry, said Kaellenius.

Kaellenius attributes the economic and wealth growth over the last few decades in China to market opening-up, which has created "an investment friendly sentiment" and facilitated the Chinese to go out into the world.

"If we go back in the other direction and start (to) increase protectionism, I fear that the result will be slower growth," among other consequences.

Kaellenius called for clear rules of engagement and a level playing field for all market participants. He suggested that policymakers look at the opportunities "win-win and growing economic ties would actually lead to." 

This photo taken on March 20, 2024 shows the logo of Mercedes-Benz in Stuttgart, Germany. (Xinhua/Shan Weiyi)

This photo taken on March 20, 2024 shows the logo of Mercedes-Benz at its headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany. (Xinhua/Shan Weiyi)
Vanderpump Rules has finally returned to its roots: women bullying and ostracizing other women, while doofus men do doofus things. Theres been a disconnect in messaging post-Scandoval, as many fans and even Bravo angle the show as a girl-power show full of women who are great inspirations. But thats not Vanderpump Rules, nor will it ever be. Its a show about awful people with great television presence, and Id want it no other way.

The group has had many victims, and now Jo joins the pantheon as persona non grata of the in-group. The group drove her to tears this week merely by mean mugging, proving Jo might not have what it takes to fight for a spot in this group, but shes still the peoples princess. Well, shes this persons princess, singular. But thats how a revolution starts.

While the ladies alliance has been teetering for weeks, this is the episode it finally topples, starting with an accidental revelation by Tom Schwartz. Pointing out that everyone in the group has made indiscretions, Schwartz casually mentions to Lala that he made out with Scheana 12 years ago. Record scratch. What?

(l-r) Ally Lewber, James Kennedy Kim White / Bravo

Lala is, understandably, bewildered, immediately tossing away the rest of the conversation to focus on this juicy news. And she carries this bone to Katie as soon as she can, circumventing Scheana and riling up her former enemy. Thats pretty bad from a friendship perspective, but from the perspective of finally giving Katie something to do this season, its a godsend. Keep being a bad friend, Lala, please.

And Katie ambushes Scheana at James DJ set to figure out the truth. While Scheana downplays the kiss and says it was hardly a makeout, and not her idea, Katies still out for blood as she doesnt like liars, apparently. This is a classic case of humorless Katie, but that general vibe is always a great foil to Scheanas effervescence. Theyre simply polar opposites, and its so much more fun when they dont pretend to be besties.

Katies sanctimonious victory lap only lasts a little while before Scheana indirectly gets her lick back, though. The hit doesnt come from Scheana but through her pot-stirring husband Brock, who feels Katies a huge hypocrite. Evidently, after James DJ set, Katie met up with former VPR cast member and alleged best friend of Schwartzs, Max Boyens, and the two went back to her place. Detective Scheana Shay finds this out through her intuition (and the Find My Friends feature). She has 56 peoples locations, and she watches over each and every one of them like the mother hen she is. Scheana is so kind. Unfortunately for Katie, that means her overnight dalliances are going to need to be done with location services off, next time.

Rewinding to the DJ set, Scheana wasnt the only one in the hot seat, as the ladies finally got a chance to haze Jo. First, Scheana pesters her to take off her TomTom hat, then Katie calls her a rat girl while the others snicker and glare at her. Then, Ally shares with the women that Allys feelings for Schwartz are like her feelings for her dad, and Lala ponders if shes had sex with her dad, followed by Katie calling her a psychopath as a cherry on top. Ariana knows how this comes across, so cue a confessional cleanup.

Before anybody starts boohooing over how Jo is treated by any one of us, know that Jo is a full-blown mean girl bully who did not give a flying fuck about spending Thanksgiving with me in my home, while knowing that our mutual friend was fucking my boyfriend in my house, and it is not bullying for me to point that out, she says.

While, yes, its not bullying to point that out, it might teeter on the line of bullying to say you dont want Jo to feel comfortable in the same room as the group, and that shes a crackhead. I dont think Ariana should be in the business of designating anyone else a mean girl when thats kind of her whole brand, and the shows as a whole. Nice girls dont make good TV (Eileen Davidson notwithstanding), so why even pretend youre one? Its kind of a relief to see these women just be mean, as its authentic, and thats much more charming than fake niceties.

Tom Sandoval Returns to His Villain Era on Vanderpump Rules

While picking at Jo is all fun and games, Lala hit her breaking point this week. Known for kindness and empathy, and never being one to lack transparency, Lalas grown tired of the groups secrets, lies, and double standards. Of course, in professing that, shes acting as a hypocrite herself, but we should expect nothing less. Theres no moral center to this show, nary a voice of reason, and its foolish to look for one. So, take Lalas words with the hefty grain of salt theyre supplied with, as shes technically right.

Theres an underlying point thats easy to agree with. When you sign up for a reality show, you need to be prepared to discuss reality. That means different things for different cast members. For Ariana, it means getting raw about why she doesnt want to let go of the house, and for Katie, its to stop expecting to talk about others dirty laundry without exposing any of yours. A lack of transparency is a problem Sandoval has majorly struggled with too, for years presenting a facade of sanctimonious perfection, but the world has knocked him all the way down and exposed his layers after years of performing, so hes no longer able to hide.

That might be why Lala has inched closer to Sandoval, too, as her frustrations build. Although Lala was gleeful to lead the charge of hate against Sandoval and Rachel, shes put down her pitchfork and allowed herself to be more introspective. Theres no doubt an element of self-preservation, but its interesting to see Lala let go of her disdain for Sandoval as she heals from her own tumultuous divorce and looks to grow in her maturity. Granted, her name list for baby number two includes Mighty, Lion, and Top, so clearly her judgment is far from perfect.

Lalas also frustrated that Ariana has continued to stonewall Sandoval, who tries to make conversation with Ariana at the DJ set. The endless saga of Sandoval and Arianas shared home has evidently worn thin for all, and Lala wants Ariana to actually address Sandoval head-on rather than passively live together whilst professing shes moved on.

(l-r) Lala Kent, Scheana Shay, Tom Sandoval Kim White / Bravo

I actually think her advice to Ariana comes mostly from a good place, as Arianas too cool to play by reality TV rules approach has cost her a lot of audience sympathythough shes still wildly more popular than Sandovaland is my main point of frustration. Its rare a person is handed such an easy route to victory, and startling to watch Ariana fumble that ball at just about every turn. Its a sharp contrast from how well shes managed the influencer side of things, scoring endorsement after endorsement and parlaying her way onto Broadway.

Thankfully, (in the present day) Ariana has finally closed on a new housenot in the Valleyand seems set for a fresh start. Im not sure how either she or Sandoval made it a year cohabitating in such chaos, but Im ever grateful she can finally move on so we dont have to witness this timeshare home in Season 12.

And finally, the sandwich shop opened its doors this week for a sandwich tasting again. Sigh. One year after Ariana and Katie hosted their last Something About Her tasting, nothing has changedwell, except for the bread of the Greek sandwich. While its great to see the interior of the building does in fact exist, it would be even cooler if the sandwich shop opened up and served a customer or two. I also hate to say this, as I love sandwiches so dearly, but the sampler tray didnt look wonderful. Maybe the sandwiches have a look and taste that simply doesnt translate to TV.

The streets are saying that the sandwich girls are planning to do a ghost kitchen promotion on Uber Eats, which seems like a fitting continuation of this endless saga. Theyll do anything but open that sandwich shop.

The Valley: The Dreaded Vanderpump Spinoff Has Arrived

Luckily, the cast didnt hold back in their confessionals about the sandwich sham. This group has given Katie and Ariana a lot of gracestrictly speaking on the sandwich subjectand its nice to see them finally admit what a farce this all is. I mean, this sandwich tasting was filmed last summer. It simply cant take this long to open a sandwich shop, and no, I dont care how complicated L.A. real estate is.

We can only hope that one day, the doors open and people can finally taste those synthetic sandwiches. Truly, the best thing Katie and Ariana can do is just ditch the storefront and move on, as they can surely make money in better ways than through a convoluted sandwich shop. Stay tuned on that front.

Also, heres a fun fact: the Vanderpump Rules Season 10 reunion is playing on the TV during the scene at Sur, which you can see while Brock and Schwartz chat. Hows that for a meta moment?

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  A World War II veteran is being recognized posthumously for his heroic actions saving his shipmates. The U.S. Navy has announced a future destroyer will be named after Navy Mess Specialist 1st Class Petty Officer Charles Jackson French.

Secretary of the United States Navy, Carlos Del Toro, announced in January 2024 at the Surface Navy Associations 36th National Symposium in Arlington that the future Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer DDG-142 will be named USS Charles J. French.

Base pool named for sailor who swam through shark-infested waters

Known as the Human Tugboat and Hero of the Solomons, French was an African American man born in Foreman, Arkansas on Sept. 25, 1919. He served in the Navy for four years aboard the Hawaii-based heavy cruiser USS Houston, reenlisting four days after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941. The Navy says he was assigned to USS Gregory in March 1942.

The U.S. Navy has announced a future Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer DDG-142 will be named after WWII hero Navy Mess Specialist 1st Class Petty Officer Charles Jackson French (Photo: United States Navy)

On the night of Sept. 4, 1942, near the Solomon Islands, the Navy says three Imperial Japanese destroyers and one cruiser opened fire on the USS Gregory and its sister ship, the USS Little.

Navy Commander honored after 50 years at San Diego Air & Space Museum ceremony

While the ships were sinking in the shark-infested waters of the Pacific Ocean, the Navy says French gathered 15 of his mostly injured shipmates onto a nearby raft, tied a rope around his waist and pulled the survivors to safety from their attackers, swimming through the night until they were able to be rescued.

French left the Navy as a Stewards Mate 1st Class, settling in San Diego with his wife. He is buried at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego.

Navy sailor dies on San Diego-based USS Halsey

French was initially recognized with a letter of commendation from the commander of the Southern Pacific Fleet, Adm. William F. Bull Halsey, but was recommended for the Navy Cross.

He was posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal in May 2022.

Military hero takes flight for 98th birthday

Also in May 2022, the Navy dedicated a surface rescue swimmer training pool at Naval Base San Diego in honor of French. The pool trains surface rescue swimmers to save lives; the commands moto  So others may live.

For too long, we did not recognize Petty Officer French appropriately, but weve begun to correct that. Recently, we renamed the training pool at Naval Base San Diego after him, stated Secretary Del Toro at the Navy Associations 36th National Symposium. Today, with profound conviction and a heart brimming with long-overdue recognition, I am proud to announce the name of our newest destroyer, DDG 142, will be the USS Charles J. French.

Navy SEAL museum coming to downtown San Diego

In honor of Black History Month, in February 2024, the Navy also announced the commissioning of the USS John L. Canley, named after Sergeant Major John L. Canley for his extraordinary leadership during the Vietnam War when he ran through an onslaught of gunfire to carry his fellow wounded Marines to safety, taking control of the company when his commander was wounded. Canley was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2018.

Navy Destroyer USS Charles J. French is slated to be built starting in 2026, with the christening projected for 2029, and delivery slated for 2031.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
The News

NBC Newss dramatic hiring and firing of a former RNC chairwoman this week threatens to undo years of repositioning itself as friendly to Republican officials and viewers.

NBCUniversals news division announced Friday it had hired Ronna McDaniel as an on-air contributor who would appear on NBC and MSNBC. On Tuesday NBCUniversal News Group chief Cesar Conde announced that hed decided to end the networks deal with McDaniel after an open revolt by his stars over hiring someone who had played a role in Donald Trumps attempt to contest the 2020 election he lost.

But while the abrupt reversal was cheered by some MSNBC staff, other NBC News journalists said they believe the move will only continue to strengthen complaints by Republicans that the network doesnt want to hear their perspectives.

Now, NBC staffers are bracing for Republican backlash, fielding texts from angry GOP sources.

Political reporters here didnt take part in the backlash, nor did they get to give input on the hire, one NBC News journalist said. But theyll be the ones who have to pick up the pieces with sources who are now dismayed with the organization.

Four NBC News staffers expressed concern that instead of fixing the problem, hiring and then firing McDaniel had only alienated liberal viewers while confirming Republican fears. Two Republican aides told Semafor theyd texted their NBC News contacts to express their anger with the decision.

Know More

The conflict over McDaniel threatens to reverse some of the gains that top network figures believed that it had made to establish some credibility with members of the Republican Party. NBC lobbied hard behind the scenes for a GOP primary debate, dispatching anchor Lester Holt to meet with the RNC as part of the networks pitch. It worked: NBC was the first non-Fox outlet to secure a debate. And throughout the GOP presidential primary, the television news organization and its digital counterpart broke a number of major stories about the contest, including the news of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis campaign announcement with Elon Musk, and infighting within the major super PAC supporting DeSantis for president.

McDaniel, who was elevated then discarded by Donald Trump, makes an unlikely martyr for a MAGA right that viewed her with suspicion even after she stopped using her middle name, Romney. But even critics like former candidate Vivek Ramaswamy took the opportunity to lambaste the network.

I would have hoped for a decision other than that one for her first move to be instantly taking a contributorship with that network, Ramaswamy told Semafor, but I think its very lame of NBC to cower to a mob of people after they did make a decision to not give somebody who they thought was worth giving a voice to. You could debate that question, but once theyve decided to do it, I think its rather lame and pathetic of them to pull it before she had a chance to contribute whatever they thought she had to contribute.

Stephen Moore, a former top Trump economic aide now at FreedomWorks, called it a good day for our team, because it makes [Democrats] look ridiculous. He added that he has no particular view on McDaniel, whom he referred to as Ronna McDonald several times during a short telephone interview.

Former Trump chief of staff Mick Mulvaney called the firing a great move for NBC. It allows them to completely shed their image as a legitimate news outlet, once and for all.

McDaniel herself was shocked by her abrupt reversal of fortune. One person familiar with the situation told Semafor that CAA warned her on Monday that she likely would need to hire a lawyer to prepare for a contentious exit from the network. It was awkward timing for the former RNC chair, who was traveling for an interview for a separate high level corporate board position which could also be imperiled by the unfolding network drama. Another person close to McDaniel said she did not hear from NBC all day, and learned about her firing from media reports.

Maxs view

NBC will have to manage its brand with Republicans as it attempts to repair what insiders see as a management failure as much as a political blunder. Running a talent-heavy television newsroom is a legendary exercise in internal politics, and executives typically keep stars close, consult them often  and try not to surprise them. Stars, in turn, can occasionally exercise an effective veto on management decisions, as the company found this week. Veterans of the network were shocked that top talent had apparently not been consulted in advance on the move.

Its a star system and theres no bench, said one former top NBC executive.

The move also deepened tensions between NBC News and MSNBC leadership, which have strained at moments throughout the last several years. Some senior NBC News figures privately expressed frustration at MSNBC president Rashida Jones, who did not oppose McDaniels hiring, but reversed course Saturday afternoon amid backlash from top talent. For its part, top figures at MSNBC expressed astonishment that the network didnt seem to grasp how strong the backlash to the decision would be internally.

Room for Disagreement

NBC did catch one break. McDaniels lack of popularity among top members of her own party may not make her a true martyr among Republicans. Her former institution, the Republican National Committee declined to comment on her firing, and Trump himself posted a mocking tweet directed both at McDaniel and weak NBC. Said one senior Republican aide: No one really cares about Ronna.

Notable

NBCUs Conde wrote that the company is committed to the principle that we must have diverse viewpoints on our programs, and to that end, we will redouble our efforts to seek voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum.

McDaniel began her career as a unifiying figure, but is now marooned on the other side of a line she crossed with her behavior following the 2020 election, if not before, CJRs Joe Allsop wrote.
NBC is facing heavy criticism from the right for terminating a deal to add former Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel as a contributor.

McDaniels abrupt exit followed vocal protests from some of the networks most prominent on-air hosts, who took issue with her past rhetoric on the 2020 election and the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Former President Trump, who has had his own up-and-down relationship with McDaniel, was among the Republicans criticizing NBC.

Wow! Ronna McDaniel got fired by Fake News NBC. She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear, Trump wrote Tuesday on his Truth Social website.

The sick degenerates over at MSDNC are really running NBC, and there seems nothing Chairman Brian Roberts can do about it, the former president wrote in another post attacking Comcast, the networks parent company.

Conservative pundit Hugh Hewitt, who moderated a GOP primary debate hosted by NBC News last fall, said he had never seen anything this brutal since I got started in media in 1990.

I think they made a terrible decision, and they allowed the MSNBC bleed to take over their network, he said, referring to the sister cable channel of NBC, which leans left.

Its going to hurt. The 74 million people who voted for Donald Trump are not going to watch NBC News, he said.

Kayleigh McEnany, a Fox host who worked for McDaniel for two years before serving as Trumps White House press secretary, blasted MSNBC hosts for taking a victory lap for silencing a conservative.

They do have some Republicans at NBC, McEnany noted in reference to pundits such as former RNC Chair Michael Steele and Marc Short, former chief of staff to Vice President Mike Pence. But Ronna came as close as you could to any voice on the network that supported the current nominee of the party who represents half the country.

In a note to staff announcing the decision to terminate its agreement with McDaniel, NBCUniversal News Group Chair Cesar Conde wrote her hiring was initially made because of our deep commitment to presenting our audiences with a widely diverse set of viewpoints and experiences, particularly during these consequential times.

Conservative critics see NBCs reversal as a direct contradiction of that pledge and a stifling of viewpoints sympathetic to Trump and that of his supporters more generally.

No ones allowed to represent the voice [of Trump] on NBC, exclaimed the popular Fox News host Jesse Watters hours after news first broke about McDaniels possible ouster. And now were hearing the inmates are running the asylum. That just tells me NBC is not a business, its a political operation.

On cable news channel NewsNation, pundit Geraldo Rivera called the outcry from MSNBC talent that ultimately led to McDaniels ouster a tsunami of pretentious bullshit.

Rachel Maddow, one of the longest-serving and most prominent hosts on MSNBC who a night earlier had called for the former RNC heads firing, said her opposition to McDaniel joining the Peacock family was not about politics.

Its not even about hiring somebody who has Trump ties. This was a very specific case because of Miss McDaniels involvement in the election interference stuff, Maddow said late Tuesday after McDaniel had been ousted. And Im grateful our leadership was able to do the bold, strong, resilient thing.

While much of the criticism of the McDaniel hire came from progressive pundits on MSNBC, the decision to oust her may have negative consequences for journalists working behind the scenes at NBC.

The online media outlet Semafor reported late Tuesday that several reporters at NBC were fielding complaints about the McDaniel saga from Republican sources, some saying the decision confirmed what they see as the networks bias against conservatives.

Those are the ones who I feel the worst for, because theyre getting screwed over by their left-wing activist bosses, one national Republican strategist told The Hill on Wednesday. They know as much as anyone this makes the entire company look in the tank for Democrats.

NBC did not return a request for comment, but Conde, in his note to staff, reiterated the company will continue to work to broaden the range of viewpoints it is putting on the air.

We continue to be committed to the principle that we must have diverse viewpoints on our programs, and to that end, we will redouble our efforts to seek voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
NBC News has reversed its decision to hire former Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel as a political analyst after network executives faced a chorus of fierce on-air criticism.

There is no doubt that the last several days have been difficult for the News Group. After listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor, NBCUniversal Group Chairman Cesar Conde said in an email to staff members Tuesday.

I want to personally apologize to our team members who felt we let them down. While this was a collective recommendation by some members of our leadership team, I approved it and take full responsibility for it, Conde wrote.

The decision to cut ties with McDaniel comes less than a week after NBC News announced her hiring, prompting an extraordinary public protest from the former host of its flagship Sunday morning political show, as well as from many of the most popular hosts of the networks cable channel.

Rachel Maddow opened her show on MSNBC on Monday night by urging NBC News to change its mind about hiring McDaniel.

I find the decision to put her on the payroll inexplicable, and I hope they will reconsider that decision, Maddow said.

MSNBC and NBC News are both part of the NBCUniversal News Group.

McDaniel did not immediately respond to a voicemail and emails requesting comment.

McDaniels hiring came two weeks after she left her post as head of the RNC, where she had voiced support for baseless claims by former President Donald Trump about the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.

Conde said in his memo that the decision to bring McDaniel on board was made because of our deep commitment to presenting our audiences with a widely diverse set of viewpoints and experiences, particularly during these consequential times. We continue to be committed to the principle that we must have diverse viewpoints on our programs, and to that end, we will redouble our efforts to seek voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum.

The on-air journalists at NBC News and MSNBC argued that McDaniel lacked credibility after The Detroit News reported she joined Trump on a phone call as he reportedly pressured Republican canvassers in her home state of Michigan not to certify the 2020 presidential election results.

In an interview Sunday on NBC News Meet the Press, which host Kristen Welker said had been scheduled before it was announced that McDaniel was going to become a paid contributor, McDaniel addressed the phone call with the canvassers, saying, I was not telling them to do anything.

The pressure was being put on them from the hours and hours of threats and abuse they were receiving that coerced them to change their vote, McDaniel said Sunday, adding that she told them, I support you voting your conscience.

Following her appearance, NBC News chief political analyst Chuck Todd said on the broadcast that she has credibility issues that she still has to deal with.

The criticism over her hiring continued Monday from early in the morning to late at night on MSNBC, with Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski saying that while NBC News should include conservative Republican voices to balance election coverage, it shouldnt be someone who used her position of power to be an anti-democracy election denier.

Television networks frequently add politicians and political operatives to their rosters to serve as analysts and commentators: MSNBC host Jen Psaki is a former press secretary to President Joe Biden, and Michael Steele, who was chairman of the RNC from 2009 to 2011, is an MSNBC political analyst and co-host.

But the hiring of McDaniel immediately prompted internal concern.

Nicolle Wallace, a former White House communications director for President George W. Bush who is now a host on MSNBC, said on her show Monday that having McDaniel on the network would embolden election deniers.

NBC News, either wittingly or unwittingly, is teaching election deniers that what they can do stretches well beyond appearing on our air and interviews to peddle lies about the sanctity and integrity of our elections, she said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  A North Carolina sex offender and naturalized citizen of the U.S. has been indicted for naturalization fraud after lying about previous sex offenses to get citizenship, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement said Wednesday.

They said the indictment came after Removal Operations officers in the Raleigh office initiated an investigation into 67-year-old Robert Davis, a convicted child molester.

On March 20, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Davis, a naturalized U.S. citizen born in Malaysia, with naturalization fraud.

According to the indictment, Davis fraudulently obtained U.S. citizenship on May 9, 2017, by making a false statement under oath in his naturalization application.

In response to the question, Have you ever committed, assisted in committing or attempted to commit, a crime or offense for which you were not arrested? the indictment said he answered no.

It said he also denied having ever forced anyone to have any kind of sexual contact or sexual relations.

Davis was convicted of sex offenses on Feb. 2 in the Superior Court of North Carolina in Guilford County, which took place years before his naturalization application, according to ICE.

In court, he was convicted of indecent liberties with a child and attempted first-degree sexual offense.

Davis was convicted after court records said he confessed to committing the crimes with a five-year-old girl between Jan. 30, 2004 and Dec. 30, 2005.

MORE FROM QUEEN CITY NEWS

CRIME & PUBLIC SAFETY

Davis was sentenced to over 16 years of imprisonment, in part because of a prior federal conviction in 2021 for possessing child pornography in the Middle District of North Carolina which resulted in a 14-year prison sentence, ICE said.

This case highlights EROs commitment to protecting communities we serve, and I am proud of the work we do every day, said ERO Atlanta Field Office Director Sean Ervin. It also highlights our resolve. For those who prey upon the vulnerable and lie about their crimes, there is nowhere they can hide. ERO will relentlessly defend the integrity of our nations naturalization process.

ICE said this case was investigated as part of Operation False Haven, an ongoing initiative designed to aggressively identify and prosecute child molesters and other egregious felons who fraudulently obtained U.S. citizenship.

The initiative was launched in late 2019 and currently encompasses six judicial districts. It has produced 60 criminal cases, 29 civil cases, 28 convictions, 18 judicial revocations of citizenship and eight judicial removal orders against defendants convicted of serial rape, child molestation, incest, sodomy, child pornography, kidnapping, sex trafficking, murder, narcotics trafficking, money laundering, tax fraud, pill mill prescription fraud, embezzlement, aggravated identity theft, and elder abuse.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
By Lucy Papachristou

LONDON (Reuters) - As many as 95 people are still missing after last week's attack near Moscow when gunmen sprayed concertgoers with automatic weapons and set the venue on fire, a Russian news outlet reported on Wednesday.

The official toll from the attack on Crocus City Hall now stands at 140 dead and 182 wounded. But the Baza news service, which has good contacts in Russian security and law enforcement, said 95 more people appeared in lists compiled by the emergency services based on appeals from people about missing relatives.

"These lists include people with whom relatives have not been able to get in touch since the terrorist attack, but who are not on the lists of wounded and dead," Baza said. "Some of these people died, but have not yet been identified."

Russian investigators said the attack was carried out by four shooters using Kalashnikov automatic weapons. More than 500 rounds were found at the scene.

The shooting began shortly before the Soviet-era rock group "Picnic" was set to play to a full house of 6,200 people. More than 200 people could have been in the blazing building moments before the roof collapsed, Baza reported on Saturday, citing emergency service sources who reviewed surveillance footage.

Russian social media channels have been flooded in the days since the shooting with appeals to help find victims.

Gathering in a Telegram chat called "Crocus. Help Centre," friends and relatives shared names of missing concertgoers and offered support.

"Was there anyone on the list named Igor Valentinovich Klimenchenko?," one user wrote on Saturday night. "Can someone send the list of victims?"

The name Klimenchenko was not on the list of confirmed dead published by Russia's emergencies ministry.

'VERY WORRIED'

Another person wrote in the same chat that their uncle worked not far from Crocus and hadn't been in touch since the attack. "I'm very worried," the nephew wrote on Saturday night.

Local media in the Bryansk region, southwestern Russia, reported on Wednesday that a woman was still searching for her son, Dmitry Bashlykov, a schoolteacher in Moscow who went to the "Picnic" concert with a friend who managed to escape.

Bashlykov's name was not on the emergencies ministry list.

Several missing persons have since been confirmed dead, like 15-year-old Arseny, who went to the concert with his mother, Irina Vedeneyeva.

The SHOT Telegram channel on Sunday published a photo of Arseny that it said he sent his grandmother shortly before the concert began, along with appeals from the "grief-stricken pensioner" to help find him. His mother had already been confirmed dead, SHOT said.

In the photo, Arseny stands in a black hooded sweatshirt in front of a poster for Picnic, which SHOT said was his favourite band. On Monday, the channel wrote that Arseny's body had been found and identified by his relatives.

The names of both mother and son are on the list of confirmed dead published by Russia's emergencies ministry.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Lucy Papachristou; Editing by Mark Trevelyan and Gareth Jones)
Frank Meeink, once a white supremacist gang leader, is now an observant Jew who studies the Torah - MARGOT JUDGE

The neo-Nazi who inspired the lead character in American History X abandoned his anti-Semitic views and became an observant Jew after a DNA test showed he is partly Jewish.

Frank Meeink, 48, formed a brutal white supremacist gang after he was kicked out of the Ku Klux Klan at the age of 15.

The skinhead, who had a swastika tattooed on his neck, believed Jewish people were the root of all evil and was jailed in 1992 for kidnapping and torturing an anti-fascist activist.

He began questioning his racist beliefs after befriending two black inmates in jail, and his story of redemption inspired Edward Nortons character Derek Vinyard in the 1998 film American History X.

Edward Norton in American History X playing a character based on Frank Meeink

But he still held strong anti-Semitic views and would go to rallies to preach against Jews until 1994 when he began working in a Jewish-run antiques shop in New Jersey.

Keith Brookstein, the owner, showed him compassion and kindness which inspired Mr Meeink, then 19, to stop shaving his head and to have his offensive tattoos removed.

Now he is a practising Jew who keeps kosher and prays three times a day after he discovered his Jewish ancestry.

A beautiful gift from God

I found out by a beautiful gift from God that I was Jewish through DNA, Mr Meeink told the New York Post. He also attends synagogue and goes to three Torah lessons three times a week.

I only do these things, not to just seem like a part of the Jews, he said. I do it because it keeps God at the forefront of my mind. Its His world, not mine.

Mr Meeink said that he decided to take a 23andMe DNA test after a friend said he looked Jewish.

The results revealed he is 2.4 per cent Ashkenazi Jewish from his maternal side. Under one Jewish ritual law, which sees Judaism passed through the mother, he would be considered Jewish.

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.
BOAO, Hainan, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Pan Gongsheng, governor of the People's Bank of China (PBOC), the Chinese central bank, called on Asian countries on Wednesday to jointly push for the quota reform of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) so that the international financial institution can better play its role as the center of the global financial safety net.

Pan made the remarks while attending a sub-forum of the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024, titled "Deepening Financial Cooperation in Asia," held in Boao, south China's Hainan Province.

Asian countries should work together to promote IMF quota reform and achieve quota adjustment as soon as possible to better reflect the due positions of Asian countries in the global economy, and especially to enhance the voice and representation of emerging markets and developing countries, Pan said.

Asian countries can push for a consensus on a new quota formula as soon as possible, laying the foundation for quota adjustment. "This is to ensure that the IMF is a rule-based institution that truly practices multilateralism," he said.

On strengthening the financial safety net in Asia, Pan also called on parties in the Asian region to continue to focus on financial stability objectives and further optimize the Chiang Mai Initiative to enhance resilience to external risks, Pan stated.

Pan also urged Asian nations to push forward bilateral currency swaps.

The PBOC has signed local currency swap agreements with 29 countries and regions, with a total swap size of more than 4 trillion yuan (about 564 billion U.S. dollars), effectively promoting cross-border trade and investment, according to Pan.

The PBOC is ready to continue to deepen monetary cooperation with Asian economies to promote the facilitation of bilateral trade and investment and play its part in maintaining regional financial stability, Pan said.

Pan said that China has always attached great importance to proactively preventing and defusing financial risks, noting that China is formulating a financial stability law that seeks to establish mechanisms that define responsibilities and cost-sharing in the handling of risks. 
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (C) meets with a Bipartisan US Congressional Delegation Organized by AIPAC at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem. Haim Zach/GPO/dpa

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has justified cancelling a visit by a high-ranking Israeli delegation to the United States by saying it was intended to send a message to Hamas, the Palestinian militant group responsible for the massacres in Israel last year.

Netanyahu's office said on Wednesday that Hamas believed that international pressure - following a resolution by the UN Security Council calling for a ceasefire - would prevent Israel from destroying Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu said he wanted to let the Islamists know that they could not rely on this pressure having any effect on Israel. "I hope they have understood the message," he said.

In a resolution which is binding under international law, the UN Security Council called on Monday for an "immediate ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip, for the first time since the start of the war. The UN body also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas. The US waived its right of veto in the vote and abstained.

Netanyahu responded immediately by cancelling an Israeli delegation's visit to Washington. Observers interpreted the move as an angry reaction to the American abstention. "I thought the US decision in the Security Council was a very, very bad move," Netanyahu said on Wednesday.

Israel's military action in Gaza is increasingly straining relations with Washington and the US President, Joe Biden.

During the planned visit, high-ranking US government representatives had wanted to present the Israelis with alternatives to a ground offensive in the city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu has said a move into Rafah is essential to Israel's victory over Hamas.

Meanwhile the violence has continued in both the West Bank and on Israel's northern border with Lebanon.

Three people were killed in Israeli army operations overnight in Jenin in the West Bank, the Israeli army reported on Wednesday.

Israel's military said it conducted an anti-terrorist operation in the town on Tuesday night, during which Palestinians had thrown explosive devices. The soldiers responded with gunfire, killing one person. The 19-year-old who was killed was shot in the chest and thigh, the Palestinian Health Ministry in Ramallah said.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also said it had attacked and killed two other armed Palestinians in Jenin. The Palestinian health authority reported that two people died in an Israeli drone attack in the refugee camp there.

To the north, at least nine people were killed late Wednesday in two Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon, Lebanese security sources and state media reported.

The Israeli army said it hit a terrorist cell located in a Hezbollah military compound in the area of Tayr Harfa, and an additional terrorist cell in the area of Naqoura.

The Lebanese state-run National News Agency (NNA) said three people were killed in an Israeli strikes near a cafe in the town of Naqoura. It said that six other people were killed in another strike on the village of Tayer Herfa.

Earlier at least seven people were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the Lebanese border town of Habariyeh.

Hezbollah announced in retaliation that its fighters fired dozens of rockets at the Israeli border town of Kiryat Shmona on Wednesday morning.

According to the Israeli rescue service Magen David Adom, a 25-year-old man was killed when a rocket hit a building in the town where he worked.

Since the beginning of the Gaza war after the massacre by the Palestinian Islamist Hamas movement in Israel on October 7, there have been repeated confrontations between Israel's army and militant groups such as Hezbollah in the Israeli-Lebanese border region.

The Iranian-backed militia, which also has close ties to Hamas, has reported more than 240 fighters killed since the Gaza war broke out.

Civilians have also been killed in both countries as a result of mutual shelling. Tens of thousands of residents have also left their home towns on both sides of the border. It is the worst escalation since the second Lebanon war in 2006.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (2nd R) meets US Senator Rick Scott (2nd L) at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem. Haim Zach/GPO/dpa
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has justified cancelling a visit by a high-ranking Israeli delegation to the US by saying it was intended to send a message to Hamas.

Netanyahu's office said on Wednesday that the militant Palestinian organization was convinced that international pressure following the latest resolution by the UN Security Council would prevent Israel from freeing the hostages and destroying Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu said he wanted to let the Islamists know that they could not rely on this pressure having any effect on Israel. "I hope they have understood the message," he said.

In a resolution which is binding under international law, the UN Security Council called on Monday for an "immediate ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip, for the first time since the start of the war. The UN body also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas. The US waived its right of veto in the vote and abstained.

Netanyahu responded immediately by cancelling the Israeli delegation's visit to Washington. Observers interpreted the move as an angry reaction to the American abstention. "I thought the US decision in the Security Council was a very, very bad move," Netanyahu said on Wednesday.

During the planned visit high-ranking US government representatives had wanted to present the Israelis with alternatives to a ground offensive in the city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip. Israel's military action in the Gaza war is increasingly straining relations between the two countries.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (2nd R) meets US Senator Rick Scott (2nd L) at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem. Haim Zach/GPO/dpa
While researchers have encountered major headwinds in turning the Hyperloop into a reality, the European Hyperloop Center is still hoping to open the first functional tube by the end of the decade.

The nonprofit foundation has opened a new quarter-mile test tube made out of white steel segments, running alongside a railroad track in the northern Netherlands. It even includes a lane switch that splits the tube into two, an early experiment that could eventually inspire a way to connect a network of tubes.

The concept, as dreamed up by Tesla CEO Elon Musk over a decade ago, involves ferrying passengers and cargo through low-pressure tubes at roughly twice the speed of high speed rail, greatly cutting down the time to travel between cities.

"I expect by 2030 you will have the first Hyperloop route, maybe [three miles] in which people will actually be transporting passengers," European Hyperloop Center director Sascha Lamme told the Associated Press. "Actually theres already preparations being done for such routes in for example Italy or India."

Despite the optimism, companies have struggled to stay afloat while developing the idea into a reliable new mode of transportation. Lamme was likely referring to Hyperloop Italia, which recently entered a joint venture with Hyperloop Transportation Technologies to construct the "worlds rst commercial hyperloop system in Italy," and an Indian technological university that signed a deal with a steel producer to build a test track.

But whether either of these loops will ever get built remains to be seen. Commercial viability has remained a major sticking point, with investors balking at the considerable costs involved. Since Musk highlighted the idea in his "Hyperloop Alpha" white paper just over ten years ago, no functional Hyperloop has yet to be built.

Case in point, Hyperloop One, which was founded in 2014 and rebranded as Virgin Hyperloop One in 2017 by Virgin CEO Richard Branson, shut down in October. Virgin had already yanked its branding and pivoted to carrying cargo and not passengers in early 2022, laying off half its staff.

However, other companies like the California-based Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, which has four prototypes in the works, are still optimistic, with plans to connect Cleveland and Chicago with a loop by the end of the decade.

Critics, on the other hand, argue it's an unnecessary and far too expensive bandaid solution (we're looking at you, Boring Company).

"This is just another example of policy makers chasing a shiny object when basic investment in infrastructure is needed," Rutgers University transportation policy researcher Robert Noland told the AP. "It costs too much to build."

In a press release, however, the European Hyperloop Center claimed that the Hyperloop is "estimated to be cheaper compared to high speed rail" and that integration of the Hyperloop is "deemed easier compared to other types of infrastructure."

Nonetheless, raising enough cash to actually build a loop that connects two European destinations is still a major roadblock for the non-profit.

"Really the main challenge is finding government commitments to build routes and, on the other hand, finding new funding to realize the necessary test facility and technology demonstration that you need to do to make this happen," Lamme told the AP.

More on the Hyperloop: The Hyperloop Is Dead. Long Live the Hyperloop.
Former President Donald Trumps niece on Tuesday mocked his latest venture: selling $60 Bibles on his Truth Social account.

Trump posted a video on Tuesday endorsing the God Bless the USA Bible, which costs $59.99.

"It's very important and very important to me," Trump said, holding up a Bible named after the Lee Greenwood song that often plays at Trumps events. "I want to have a lot of people have it. You have to have it for your heart, for your soul, Trump said in the video.

Hes never prayed in his life, tweeted Mary Trump, adding that if that were a real bible, it would burst into a ball of flame.

1) He's never prayed in his life.

2) If that were a real bible, it would burst into a ball of flame. https://t.co/Qk0wAewEnV  Mary L Trump (@MaryLTrump) March 26, 2024

The hosts of The View also mocked Trump for pandering with the Bible sales in a clip flagged by Mediaite.

The last time he was on his knees, he was picking up a french fry, joked Joy Behar.

Im a Christian, and as soon as I heard that price tag, I think of the persecuted Christians around the world who risk their lives to have one page of the Bible to read scripture in places like China, Saudi Arabia, Syria where you cant practice your faith openly and hes using it to profit off of, argued former Trump aide Alyssa Farah Griffin.

Its blasphemous! co-host Sunny Hostin later declared.
Authorities in Oklahoma released the complete autopsy and toxicology report in the case of Nex Benedict on Wednesday, as LGBTQ+ and civil rights advocacy groups reiterated calls for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding 16-year-old nonbinary students February death.

The full report does little to fill in the gaps in information about that day or the more than a year of bullying and harassment that led up to it, Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, said in a statement. It does not answer the questions of so many in Oklahoma and across the country.

The full 11-page report released by the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner maintains that Benedicts death was, as previously reported, a suicide by combined toxicity of two drugs, brand names Prozac and Benedryl. The report details the amounts of both the antidepressant and antihistamine found in Benedicts system upon their Feb. 9 autopsy.

It does not specify the reasons why the medical examiner ruled the overdose a suicide, but it does outline the 10th graders medical history, noting that they had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety. They had self-harmed in the past, and struggled with both tobacco and marijuana abuse, it states.

Handwritten notes that are suggestive of self-harm were found in the decedents room by family and provided to law enforcement, the report adds.

Benedict, who used both gender-neutral and masculine pronouns, died hours after being hospitalized on Feb. 8. They were reported to have headaches and seizure-like activity before being found unresponsive, according to the report. Emergency personnel were notified, cardiopulmonary resuscitation efforts were attempted, unsuccessfully.

The report notes that Benedicts antemortem history included a recent physical altercation. It notes that the teenager had sustained extensive injuries to their head, neck, torso, and limbs in that fight. Those injuries were not lethal, according to the report.

A day before Benedicts death, they were involved in a fight in a bathroom at Owasso High School with three girls. According to witnesses, the fight was less than one minute in duration after Benedict poured water over two girls while they were in the bathroom, Tulsa County District Attorney Stephen Kunzweiler said in a statement last week. Apparently, comments were directed about how Benedict laughed, which was followed by the water pouring incident.

In that statement, Kunzweiler said hed pored over all of the evidence gathered by the medical examiner and Owasso police, and had decided not to pursue charges in the case, noting that the fight had been an instance of mutual combat.

Relatives said in the wake of Benedicts death that they had suffered extensive bullying at school. In a Feb. 7 body-camera video released a few weeks later by police, Benedict describes the circumstances leading up to the fight. In the bathroom, I was talking with my friends, they were talking with their friends and we were laughing, they say in the video. And they had said something like, Why do they laugh like that? And they were talking about us in front of us.

Benedict said they poured water on the other students and the situation escalated, becoming physical. They said they were thrown to the ground and beaten before the fight was broken up by others.

Nicole McAfee, the executive director of Freedom Oklahoma, said in a statement that the full report offered almost no additional information and did nothing to change the fundamental injustice of the situation.

Nex Benedict was a 16 year-old Indigenous student at an Oklahoma school who was relentlessly bullied for his transness for over a year, and who died the day after being physically beaten in a school bathroom, they said. Nex is a 16 year-old, who should still be alive. But isnt.

GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis added in a statement that the report could not be allowed to stand as a conclusion of the investigation into Benedicts death.

Oklahomas supposed leaders must still provide answers to the public about the state-sponsored bullying by legislation, the inadequate response to violence in a school bathroom, and all the failures to keep Nex safe that continue to endanger LGBTQ and [two-spirit, transgender, and gender nonconforming] people in Oklahoma, she said.

The Human Rights Campaign, Freedom Oklahoma, and GLAAD all called for further accountability

All three organizations demanded further justice and accountability, as Robinson put it, calling for a more thorough investigation into the district, state superintendent Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma State Department of Education, and into their response after Nex was attacked.

Benedicts family previously said through their lawyers that they planned to conduct an independent investigation into the case. They had no further comment on Wednesday.

If you or a loved one are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing or texting 988.

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This story was adapted from Digital Future Daily, POLITICO's afternoon newsletter about the power and politics of tech.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s new running mate might not help him win an election, but shes already highlighting a change that unsettles both parties in American politics  and shows how tech-world money might be accelerating it.

Nicole Shanahan, the 38-year-old lawyer and investor who will now be Kennedys running mate, provides a helpful injection of cash to the campaign, having donated more than $4.5 million to his bid thus far.

Shanahan is a longtime staple of the Silicon Valley scene as an early AI executive, an ex-wife of Google co-founder Sergey Brin and, according to the Wall Street Journal, an alleged one-time paramour of Elon Musk.

But potentially more significant than the money she delivers is the way her politics squares with Kennedys existing supporters, and what it means for U.S. party alignment.

Looking at Shanahans track record, she at first seems the paragon of a loyal Democrat: She contributed to Hillary Clinton in 2016, Joe Biden and Pete Buttigieg in 2020, and Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), her local representative.

She was a major donor to Measure J, an anti-incarceration California ballot initiative, and her Bia-Echo Foundation names the worlds greatest challenges as Reproductive Longevity & Equality, Criminal Justice Reform and a Healthy and Livable Planet  which, whatever it actually does, manages to invoke a lot of progressive-sounding buzzwords.

That might make her selection jarring, considering RFK Jr.s campaign has thus far appealed to a more right-leaning crowd.

But shes also a walking manifestation of big techs idiosyncratic politics  a blend of innovation-minded libertarianism, West Coast institutional skepticism, and an interest in mysticism, alternative lifestyles and medicines.



RFK Jr., so far, has thrived by connecting all those lines in one celebrity-surname package. His highest-profile supporters so far have been the libertarian-minded Silicon Valley techno-utopianists who once flirted with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis doomed campaign. They defected en masse to Kennedy after a press conference on Twitter last summer: He can and will beat both Trump and DeSantis, said Twitter founder Jack Dorsey, back when Kennedy was still running as a Democrat.

Kennedy fits very neatly into the culture that produced Shanahan  one comprising tech billionaires comfortable with celebrity and suspicious of legacy institutions and their policy consensus. Kennedy has repeatedly apologized for Russias conduct in Ukraine; he invited the vaguely anarcho-libertarian investor Balaji Srinivasan to be his Secretary of the Treasury; hes repeatedly spread conspiracy theories about the coronavirus vaccine.

Theres a significant amount of overlap between that world and the progressive, Whole Foods-shopping sphere of Shanahans influence. Take the vaccine issue: Shanahan told the New York Times last month that while shes not an anti-vaxxer, she does wonder about vaccine injuries. (She has also voiced her concern about electromagnetic pollution.) Kennedy, for his part, started this campaign as a Democrat and has a long track record as an environmental activist; hes even stated his support for the Green New Deal.

The two names on the RFK Jr. ticket now form a sort of Venn diagram, with Kennedys paranoid distrust of the establishment and Shanahans crunchy California progressivism joining their circles around a fair number of voters put off by what they see as calcified Republican and Democratic politics.

Samuel Hammond, senior economist at the pro-tech nonprofit Foundation for American Innovation, suggested that the ticket reflects Americas radical center. The term, coined by Ted Halstead and Michael Lind in a 2001 book of the same name, posited a base of disenchanted voters that includes single-issue, alienated radicals and low-information independents, willing to throw their support to whoever best courts their disaffection.

Both Republicans and Democrats fear that base could throw the election to the opposite side.

The Democratic National Committee has attacked Kennedy campaign as a stalking horse for Trump, while despite the Trump campaigns professed affection for Kennedy, spokesman Steven Cheung still felt the need to lash out at him as an environmental whack job who loves E.V. mandates, wants to end gasoline-powered engines, and no independent. (Trump himself wrote on Truth Social that Kennedy is a Radical Left Democrat, and always will be!!!)

Shanahans presence on the ticket represents, then, a tentative play for the left side of the radical center, and an experiment in how broad a coalition it could become.

Her progressive track record is unlikely to sit well with the right-leaning venture capital crowd which first bear-hugged Kennedys campaign, but her yoga-mom, populist wariness of the medical establishment could entice otherwise skeptical left-leaning members of that group to take the plunge and support the ticket.

If  and its a big if  that ploy is successful for Kennedys campaign, it could chiefly hurt Biden, who is staking his re-election on retaining persuadable voters from 2020 who couldnt, and still cant, stomach Trump.

Marshall Kosloff, a media fellow at the Hudson Institute and co-host of the Realignment podcast, argued that the initial surge of interest in Kennedys campaign from the tech set obscured a more natural fit for his message and track record with disaffected liberals. Theyre dissatisfied with being Democrats because they're bored and anti-establishment RFKs people are people who you could have seen voting Green Party 20 years ago, but now their party identification is even weaker.

After a 2020 presidential election that saw a steep drop in the proportion of the vote that went to third-party candidates, Democrats now worry about shedding crucial votes to candidates like Kennedy in swing states they cant afford to lose.

If you sat down with these voters and went through their actual views and what they actually care about, they would be a part of Joe Biden's coalition, Kosloff said. But theres the uncomfortable reality that in an anti-institutional age, theres a distinct minority of those voters that just don't like that.
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA)  The eclipse is less than two weeks away, and organizations in Illinois are coming up with more ways to view the rare astronomical event.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign astronomy professor Leslie Looney recommends anyone who has the ability to, to travel into the path of totality.

Partial solar eclipses are interesting, but they pale compared to totality, Looney said in an interview with University of Illinois News Bureau. If you can do it, try to get to the path of totality. It is worth it.

Illinois prepares for large crowds ahead of solar eclipse next month

The professor notes the event is not only an interesting tourist attraction but also an important time for scientific discovery.

When the moon blocks out the bright solar surface, we can see the beautiful outer layers of the suns atmosphere and their wispy structures, Looney said. Scientists can use this time to study the corona and better understand how the sun powers our solar system.

Without the sun, Looney also notes there will be a temperature drop and most birds and animals will be silent during totality due to the sudden shift.

The next total solar eclipse wont be visible in the continental U.S. until 2044, in parts of Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Where can I get solar eclipse glasses?

Eclipse Events in Central Illinois

Various organizations in Central Illinois are hosting watch parties and other celebrations for the rare astronomical event.

Partial Eclipse:

Total Eclipse Events:

The Effingham Performance Center is offering a tailgating viewing party in its parking lot. The tickets are $50 for the two parking spaces: one to hold a vehicle and one to sit in. Concessions and indoor restrooms are available. Glasses will be provided while supplies last.

Visit Effingham is promoting several events to do on April 8 in the city on its website for tourists.

Illinois 4-H is partnering with the Thrillville Thrillbillies to throw a watch party at the MTN DEW Park in Marion. Tickets are $10 each and include parking and a free pair of eclipse glasses. They can be purchased on the Thrillbillies website.

The Macon County Conservation District is offering a van road trip to SIUs Eclipse Day at Saluki Stadium in Carbondale. The van leaves at 7:30am and arrives 6pm. Eclipse-viewing glasses will be provided by SIU. Tickets cost $60 per person for admission, transportation, and parking, and SIU is offering eclipse glasses. Registration can done online on the Macon County Conservation Districts website and closes on April 5.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
JERUSALEM, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Israeli and U.S. researchers found that the combined effects of deforestation and climate change pose a significant threat to wildlife, particularly cold-blooded species, Tel Aviv University (TAU) said in a statement on Wednesday.

Published in the journal Nature Climate Change, their study revealed that global warming drives lizards and other climbing animals to seek refuge in trees where it's cooler and windier.

However, deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion are reducing the availability of trees, placing these animals at risk.

The research focused on lizards, creatures highly reliant on their surroundings to regulate body temperature.

Using a computer simulation, the team analyzed how lizards would distribute themselves between sun, shade, and trees over 20 years under both historical and projected climate conditions.

While climate change generally favors lizard population growth by increasing their activity, the results showed that deforestation counteracts these benefits.

It was found that deforestation can reverse the positive effects for 66 percent of simulated populations and further accelerate population declines for another 18 percent.

The researchers emphasized the critical importance of tree preservation, especially given the changing climate, and provided practical guidance for policymakers, such as recommending specific tree heights and densities. 
Nine raccoons are on the loose in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, after escaping from their new enclosure at the AquaZoo animal park. Photo by Alexas_Fotos/Pixabay.com

March 27 (UPI) -- A Netherlands zoo is on the hunt for trash pandas after 11 raccoons escaped from their new enclosure at the facility.

Officials at AquaZoo in Leeuwarden said 12 raccoons arrived on Monday and a caretaker showed up Tuesday morning to find only one raccoon was present.

Two more raccoons were recovered later in the day, but nine of the animals are still on the loose, zoo director Jeroen Loomeijer said.

Loomeijer said zoo officials determined two pieces of mesh surrounding the enclosure did not fit together properly, allowing the animals to dig their way out.

He said one raccoon was spotted nearby the zoo Tuesday night, but was not captured. Traps have been set in a nearby nature preserve in case the nocturnal animals managed to climb over the fence.

Loomeijer said the raccoons have all been spayed or neutered, so they will not breed in the wild. He said the raccoons are timid and not believed to be a danger to humans.
NEW JERSEY (PIX11)  Multiple law enforcement agencies arrested a New Jersey man and woman who allegedly sold heroin/fentanyl, crack/cocaine, and other drugs and endangered the welfare of a child, authorities said.

The ATF, the New Jersey State Police, and the United States Secret Service took part in a long-term investigation that led to the arrest of Demoy Woller, 23, and QaLasia Williams, 25. They were charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession of a controlled dangerous substance with the intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of school property, and endangering the welfare of a child.

Criminal justice reform in spotlight as NYPD mourns loss of officer

Authorities had been investigating Woller and Willians since November 2023. On Monday, police officials executed a search warrant for 10 locations within Passaic, Bergen, and Sussex counties.

Authorities seized more than $100,000 in cash, a 9mm handgun with a high-capacity magazine, 56 rounds of ammunition, more than 12,000 packages of suspected heroin/fentanyl, 1 ounce of suspected raw heroin/fentanyl, 9.5 ounces of suspected crack/cocaine, 8 pounds of suspected marijuana and several large bottles of promethazine.

It was not immediately clear why they were charged with endangering the welfare of a child.

Other associates were also arrested in connection to the investigation. Names and details were not immediately released.

If convicted, Woller and Williams could face multiple years in prison. Possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute carries a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison. Third-degree possession of a controlled dangerous substance carries a minimum sentence of three years in prison, third-degree possession of a controlled dangerous substance with intent to distribute within 1,000 Feet of School Property carries a minimum sentence of three years in prison, and endangering the welfare of a child carries a minimum sentence of five years in a New Jersey State Prison.

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
(Bloomberg) -- The gray F/A-18 fighter jets hurtled one by one from the deck of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower into the heat of the Red Sea morning, scrambling to counter the latest attack drone launched by the Houthis. The $56 million aircraft were part of a coalition operation that nullified the attack, returning hours later as they have almost daily for the last several months.

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Yet for all the costly hardware the US and its allies have thrown at the Islamist group from northwest Yemen, they havent been able to stop the attacks on civilian freighters and warships. As a result, the worlds biggest shipping companies are still largely avoiding a route that once carried 15% of global commerce.

The success of the Iran-backed rebel group in stymying the worlds most sophisticated militaries is the latest setback for Washingtons efforts to limit the spread of a regional conflict that began with Hamas deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7.

The Houthi campaign, which claimed its first civilian ship sunk in early March and its first fatalities not long after, is also a growing threat to the global economy. The number of vessels sailing through the southern Red Sea is down about 70% compared with the start of December. Container shipping has dropped about 90% and gas tankers have also all but ceased transit.

Sailing around southern Africa adds about two weeks to the voyage. As a result, the cost of sending a container from Shanghai to Rotterdam is about double the level of a year earlier, according to Drewry Shipping.

More than three months into a major naval policing operation, Admiral Marc Miguez, commander of the flotilla, concedes the US and its allies have more work to do.

We know that we have reduced some of their capability, he said, standing on the navigation bridge of the Eisenhower. But with the Houthis backers in Iran still sending money, weapons and intelligence - including from a spy ship sailing hundreds of miles from the Eisenhower just outside the Red Sea - he wont forecast when the job may be done.

He points to a slowdown in Houthi attacks and a shift from attacks with cruise missiles to less-dangerous drones as evidence the operation is wearing the group down. But thats been little comfort for shipping companies.Its a quite binary situation, Rolf Habben Jansen, chief executive officer of Hapag-Lloyd AG said on an earnings call this month. It is either safe for our people or it is not. As long as it is not safe, we will not send our people through the Red Sea.

He said hes hoping the disruptions will ease in the next few months or so, but concedes that others in the business fear it could last into 2025. Apparel retailer Abercrombie & Fitch Co. recently ditched a prediction freight costs would fall this year, citing the Red Sea disruption.

The Houthis, meanwhile, have told China and Russia their ships can sail through the Red Sea without fear of attack. Still, the Houthis hit a Chinese oil tanker with a missile on Saturday, an attack that could have been a case of mistaken identity and reflecting that no ships are totally safe.

One Western official said the Houthis likely have the ability to keep launching strikes on other ships at something close to its current pace for months to come. How many missiles the Houthis had in their arsenals at the outset of the conflict was kind of a black hole for the US intelligence-wise, conceded Miguez.

@PeterMartin_PCM went aboard the USS Eisenhower to see how the US and its allies are trying to stop the group in the Red Sea https://t.co/zTjsgY6bSP pic.twitter.com/J5HZbhzwQ0

 Bloomberg (@business) March 27, 2024

At the same time, US officials admit theres no sign that Iran, without which the Houthis couldnt sustain the attacks for long, sees any reason to stop. The Islamic Republics oil exports arent affected since they mostly use another route. US warnings to Tehran so far arent working.

Iran is undeterred in support to the Houthis, General Michael Kurilla, commander of the US Central Command, bluntly told a Senate hearing on March 7. There has to be cost imposition on Iran.

Through a combination of overland shipments and dozens of small dhow ships plying the seas in the region, Iranian supplies are getting through. Iran has also sent advisers, including specialists in laying mines at sea, according to people familiar with the situation.

The Houthis are putting it all together and assembling, Kurilla said. They dont create inertial navigation systems. They dont create medium-range ballistic missile engines. They dont create the stage separations on these medium-range ballistic missiles or the anti-ship cruise missiles.

A top Iranian commander, Abdul Reza Shahlai, directed the first Houthi attacks from inside Yemen in October, according to several people with direct intelligence from the ground. The US is offering $15 million for information about Shahlai, whos accused of masterminding deadly attacks on Americans in the region. Hes also the de facto commander of the Houthis drone and missile forces, with a direct line to the groups leader, according to people familiar with the group.

As far as Iran is concerned, he has done an amazing job, hes built the Houthis into this monster, according to Joel Rayburn, a former US military officer and diplomat whos worked on countering Iran.

The US has been cautious about attacking Iranian supply lines directly, fearing it would escalate the already unstable situation in the region. NBC reported that Irans intelligence vessel was targeted by a US cyberattack for sharing intelligence with the Houthis.

Admiral Miguez said two Iranian ships are currently active in the region: an intelligence vessel which has operated off the coast of Djibouti for years, and a support ship.

Were at a point where Iran has influence over, if not strategic control over, three of worlds six major economic choke points, said John Miller, a former commander of the US Fifth Fleet, under which the Ike now sits, referring to the Suez Canal at the north of the Red Sea, the Bab el-Mandeb strait in the south, and the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran admits backing the Houthis, but not arming them, and it says they make their own decisions.

Iran has threatened and used force itself, seizing a US-linked oil cargo, vowing retaliation if its own ships are attacked and rehearsing the liberation of commercial ships hijacked by pirates in joint drills with Russia and China in the nearby Gulf of Oman.

Despite the nearly daily strikes on their bases in Yemen, the Houthis have basked in the global attention thats catapulted them to the front ranks of the Arab resistance to Israels war in Gaza and shown their value to their patrons in Tehran.

The Houthis have proved themselves to be an important and effective regional actor and Iran serves their political ambitions, said Maysaa Shuja Al-Deen, Senior Researcher at the Sanaa Center for Strategic Studies, a think tank.

The group conducted a drill to confront a simulated landing of US and UK forces in Yemen this month, according to the Houthi-controlled Saba news agency, with leaders vowing to repel any attack.

They arent likely to get that chance, with allies so far rejecting any talk of an operation in Yemen.

But if one of the regular attacks on the allied warships were to succeed, killing foreign troops, the US would likely have to step up its response. The next level of escalation could be attacks targeting Houthi leaders, according to western officials.

One US military official, who asked to remain anonymous discussing matters that arent public, said the US is on the wrong side of the cost curve in its campaign. America can sustain the costs, the official said, but its getting very expensive.

For the moment, the costly game of cat and mouse continues. On the Eisenhower, officials said the Houthis stopped using their drones for high-level reconnaissance once the allies began to target them. Instead, they fired them low across the water to avoid detection and attack allied ships directly.

In response, the allies have taken to using fighters like the F/A-18s to take out the drones with air-to-air missiles, keeping them further from the ships and conserving the expensive weapons they had used to defend themselves.

Our goal is no loss of life. No loss of equipment, said Captain Colin Price, the ships executive officer. Its a no-fail mission.

--With assistance from Sam Dagher.

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If certified eyewear to watch the impending total solar eclipse is becoming hard to come by, many would-be skygazers may be tempted to find other alternative methods to witness the spectacular sight.

And if you're a welder, you may think you've already got just the perfect piece of equipment in your workshop. But beware: Experts warn that those old reliable welding goggles you've got sitting on a shelf likely aren't capable of adequately withstanding the sun's powerful rays and protecting your vulnerable eyes.

Any welding lenses weaker than a Shade 12 filter  a number that indicates the level of protection offered  just aren't going to cut it when it comes to gazing skyward on April 8 in anticipation of the moon blocking all but the sun's outermost layer.

Here's what to know about how to ensure your welding goggles are safe for viewing the total solar eclipse.

2024 total solar eclipse guide: How to watch, understand and stay safe on April 8

Are welding goggles ever safe to view a total solar eclipse?

A man is pictured welding in February in Detroit. The welding goggles he wears are suitable to protect his eyes from the light and heat he's generating, but unless they're Shade 12 or higher, they're not safe to wear to view a total solar eclipse.

Most people don't go around during the day looking up at the sun for any extended period of time  at least, not without significantly impairing their vision.

But a total solar eclipse is a rare and stunning enough of an event that millions of people across the United States are going to want to do just that on April 8.

Fortunately, safety glasses make it possible for spectators to gaze up at the sun to catch the moment of totality, whereby the moon passes in front of it and appears large enough to us on Earth to completely block the sun's light. That moment also offers skygazers an uncommon glimpse of the sun's outermost layer known as the corona.

While certified solar eclipse glasses are the preferred method for viewing the eclipse, alternative methods do exist that don't necessarily sacrifice one's safety.

However, most welding lenses aren't dark enough to serve as adequate protection, according to Phillips Safety, a manufacturer of occupational safety products. Welding glasses with the darkest shade level of 14 serve as the best protection, but are uncommon and not widely available in most neighborhood hardware stores, Phillips Safety said.

Interactive maps: How long will the solar eclipse darkness last in your city?

What to know about shades and filters on welding lenses

The shade level on welding goggles typically ranges from 4 to 14, with the lenses being darker the higher the number.

According to NASA, any welding lenses that are at least a Shade 12 are safe for viewing a total solar eclipse, but because most types of welding don't require eyewear with filters that dark, they're hard to come by.

What's more, most people may still find the sun too bright with a Shade 12 pair of goggles, while Shade 14 protection may make it too dim, NASA said.

Phillips warns against using welding glasses without a marking that designates the shading level unless you're confident you're not taking an unnecessarily risky gamble. The manufacturer, which advertises Welding Glasses Shade 14 for sale on its website, says the eyewear is made of material much darker than solar eclipse glasses designed to block out all visible light except for a small amount of green light.

However, it's important to note that the American Astronomical Society maintains a list of reputable vendors of solar eclipse viewers that doesn't include any suppliers of welder's filters.

Move over, 2017 solar eclipse: Here's why the 2024 event will be bigger and better.

How to find certified solar eclipse glasses

A group of children watch the solar eclipse in 2018 with their protective glasses at the Tempe campus of Arizona State University. The eclipse glasses the youngsters are wearing are likely your best bet for viewing the April 8 eclipse, though certain types of welding goggles could also be safe.

Certified eyewear that is specially designed to safely take in a solar eclipse remains the best bet for those intent on witnessing the last one of these incredible astronomical events in North America for 20 years.

But with the total solar eclipse less than two weeks away, it's time to start checking local libraries, astronomical observatories, schools and other public agencies that may be giving away eclipse glasses for free. Many eclipse websites like GreatAmericanEclipse.com and NationalEclipse.com also sell a variety of eyewear products, along with plenty of other gadgets one may need to see the eclipse.

Crafted to block nearly all visible, infrared and ultraviolet light, these glasses are much stronger than regular ol' sunglasses. Just be warned: Plenty of fakes and imitators exist.

The real deal are in compliance with the International Organization for Standardization, which mandates that to be verified, only a certain amount of sunlight can transmit through the filters. Fortunately, the astronomical society makes it easy to check a potential purchase with its aforementioned curated list of vendors.

What makes a total eclipse unique compared to partial solar eclipses is that the millions of people who witness it in the United States will have an opportunity to safely gaze upon the sight with the naked eye. That moment will come when totality occurs and the moon ushers in darkness by blocking the sun's disk.

Hundreds of cities in 13 states are on the path of totality for this year's solar eclipse, which will pass from southwest to northeast across North America. And as you make your eclipse-viewing plans, these interactive maps should help you chart the time and duration for when totality would occur in cities along the path

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why wearing welding glasses to watch the solar eclipse is a bad idea
39 Nobel prize laureates have written an open letter calling on the international community to increase support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia, to support the Russian democratic opposition and not to recognise Vladimir Putin as president of the Russian Federation.

Source: a statement published in the scientific journal T-Invariant

Quote: "The war in Ukraine and the murder of Alexei Navalny are not only about Russia and Ukraine. Putin's regime has shown that it poses a direct threat to all of humanity."

Details: The authors of the open letter emphasised that "Ukraine must win this war", not just "not lose". The scientists noted that it is necessary to "significantly increase aid" to reduce the loss of human lives.

"Putin's failures during the military aggression will be perceived as a moral victory by millions of Russians, strengthen their hopes for a democratic future and mobilise the anti-war movement."

At the same time, they believe that the international community should protect political prisoners in Russia and increase support for Russian citizens who face oppression because of their democratic and anti-war political beliefs. It is about Russian democratic anti-Putin organisations and independent Russian media.

The scientists also rejected Putin's re-election and called for "delegitimising the illegal hold on power in Russia."

So far, the appeal has been signed by 39 Nobel laureates, including Ukrainian human rights activist Oleksandra Matviichuk and Belarusian writer Svetlana Alexievich.

For reference: From 19 March 2024, the outlets of the Ukrainska Pravda group will no longer use the word "president" to refer to Vladimir Putin. In this article, well explain why.

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MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WKRN)  A non-custodial father has been charged with kidnapping his son from his custodial parent after he was arrested in Rutherford County.

According to the Rutherford County Sheriffs Office (RCSO), 26-year-old John Kavin Samples, of Utah, was wanted for taking his son from the boys mothers home in Rossville, Georgia, just across the Tennessee border. Samples had visited his son in Georgia Monday night and took him by force from the home as he was preparing to leave.

According to Walker County Detective Jonathan Camp, Samples forcibly kidnapped the child from his mother in the presence of his older sister while in the possession of a firearm.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

The boys mother chased them, Camp said, but Samples put the child in the van and got into the drivers seat. When the mother opened the door to retrieve her child, Samples girlfriend, Anjela Baker, allegedly handed Samples a gun.

He pointed it at the mother and tried to shoot her but missed, Camp said.

John Samples (Courtesy: Rutherford County Sheriffs Office)

The detective added that Sample tried to hit her with the car and drove away.

Walker County Sheriffs deputies gave Samples vehicle information to the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) and other law enforcement agencies along I-24. The Georgia authorities then said they were able to locate Samples in the van in Murfreesboro.

THP notified RCSO of the wanted vehicle, and it was spotted a short time later by RCSO Deputy Luis Ramirez at a Shell station on Old Fort Parkway, according to RCSO Sgt. Ethan Shenefield. Ramirez followed the vehicle onto I-24 until he and other deputies were able to stop Samples near the I-840 exit.

| READ MORE | Latest headlines from Murfreesboro and Rutherford County

Samples and Baker, 30, of Ogden, Utah, were charged with being fugitives from justice and booked into the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center. A hearing on the fugitive charges and extradition to Georgia is set for April 8 in General Sessions Court.

The 3-year-old boy was safely returned to a family member, according to Rutherford County authorities. The Tennessee Department of Childrens Services has taken custody of Bakers 5-year-old daughter and the 6-month-old baby she shares with Samples.

Anjela Baker (Courtesy: Rutherford County Sheriffs Office)

According to the Rutherford County Sheriffs Office, Georgia authorities have obtained warrants charging Samples with aggravated assault of the family violence act, kidnapping, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony, cruelty to a child first-degree of his son and his sons sister, and home invasion first degree.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Baker is separately charged with kidnapping and conspiracy to commit aggravated assault.

This is a very tragic incident that because of the quick action of our deputies fortunately had a happy ending, Rutherford County Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) A new nonprofit called Toilet Equity is already making a difference in Grand Junction by installing free-to-use, environmentally friendly port-a-potties at organizations that allow it.

Everyone needs a place to poop or pee or go to the bathroom, change a menstrual product and we want to make sure that people have a safe, clean place to do that with dignity. Kaitlin Pettit, CEO Toilet Equity

Toilet Equity started in 2022 when its founder Paul Padyk combined his own experience of having no access to a bathroom during travels with conditions he saw the homeless enduring along the riverfront trail in Grand Junction. Kaitlin Pettit, CEO of Toilet Equity, said everyone at their company has their own story about needing a toilet when they cant find one.

I have people in my family who have had that lack of toilet access at one point or anotherA lot of our users dont have that access they have to schedule their lives around when they eat and drink knowing when everything is going to pass through to be able to still have access to a bathroom, Pettit told WesternSlopeNow.

The City of Grand Junction shuts down restrooms in the winter and port-a-potties arent always readily available. But, Toilet Equity is looking to change that by installing free-to-use environmentally friendly toilets. Most of them are a standard four by four wooden structure, kind of looks like a tool shed. When you open the door its going to basically look like a standard port-a-potty, just more room, Pettit said.

To use a Toilet Equity port-a-potty is the same as any other toilet, with one caveat. After youre done doing your business you throw some sawdust on top. The Toilet Equity website says this prevents any odors and stops flies from gathering (WesternSlopeNow did independently confirm this claim).

Unlike a traditional port-a-john, once a Toilet Equity toilet fills up, volunteers take it to their composting facility.

The equity in Toilet Equity

In most toilets, even ones connected to plumbing, youre not supposed to flush menstrual products down, but Pettit says they encourage people to dispose of their menstrual products in their toiletsinstead of carrying them around looking for a trash can.

Its not a burden on us. Im standing right [next to the toilet] and I cant smell anything. Kevin Arnesman, Senior Pastor, First Christian Church

Right now there are four locations throughout Grand Junction; The Resource Pavilion, Homeward Bound, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Grand Valley, and First Christian Church. WesternSlopeNow spoke to Kevin Arnesman, the senior pastor at First Christian Church, about why he has a Toilet Equity port-a-potty on his church grounds.

Its a huge challenge to try to solve the major problem, but we can solve some of the smaller problems, Arnesman said. From a property owners perspective, Arnesman said it hasnt brought their property values down and led to very few neighbor complaints.

Bruce Hinds volunteers with the outreach ministry at First Christian Church and knows why extra toilets are so necessary. A lot of times theyre not welcome at the park for various reasons and so they know this is safe and they can come over here and theyre not going to be harassed at all, Hinds said.

Hinds himself is homeless.

I know what it is to not be able to make it to the restroom and theres nobody that wants to go through that. Its very demeaning, its very shameful and in our great big giant world, it should not ever be a problem for anybody to find a clean bathroom and be safe just to go to the bathroom. Bruce Hinds

You can learn more about Toilet Equity here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com.
A Norfolk distillery is celebrating after its single malt whisky was named the best in the world.

The English Distillery in Roudham was honoured at the World Whiskies Awards 2024, held in London by Whisky Magazine.

The family-run business triumphed in the World's Best Single Malt category with The English Sherry Cask.

Mike Fisher, sales director of The English Distillery, said the award "really puts us on the map".

He added that demand for the whisky had soared after scooping the award and said the success would help secure the future of the business.

The distillery was the fulfilment of a lifelong dream of farmer James Nelstrop. It was officially opened by King Charles III in 2007 and began producing whisky in 2009.

Mr Nelstrop died in 2014 and the team is now led by his son, Andrew.

The distillery was founded by James Nelstrop and is still run by his family

The World Whiskies Awards saw 200 expert judges from around the world assess more than 1,500 different blends from more than 40 countries.

The ceremony, at Merchant Taylors' Hall in London, celebrated winners across 23 categories including single malt, bourbon, blended, rye, pot still and design.

Follow East of England news on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a story? Email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 169 1830
DALLAS - With the April 8 eclipse around the corner, KDFW went back into the archives to find how North Texans experienced past eclipses.

North Texas will see a total solar eclipse on April 8, but on Feb. 26, 1979, the path of totality was in the Pacific Northwest. Still, the DFW area got a chance to see a partial eclipse.

Channel 4's Charles Johnson spoke to crowds at Southern Methodist University in Dallas and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.

Onlookers made some alterations to telescopes and used special viewers to take a peek at the eclipse without damaging their eyes.

READ MORE: Businesses encouraged to treat eclipse like snow day, Dallas city officials say

Physics professor George Crawford used a reflecting mirror on a movie screen to give people a chance to see the shadow as the Moon passed between the Earth and Sun.

Some of the crowd was a bit disappointed by what they saw.

"I really thought it would be a lot more, you know, big deal, but it's pretty neat looking. You really just see shadows. It's not like a picture," said one member.

Dr. Crawford encouraged the crowd to appreciate the beauty of the event.

"It's the fact that we can predict when eclipses will occur," he said. "It demonstrates to us that we really have the equations of motion. We have the knowledge of the forces involved so we can predict the relative motion of these three bodies and come up very precisely as to when the alignment occurs."

Johnson wrapped up his coverage by calling it a "day to remember" and saying that the next eclipse would happen in 38 years.

That, of course, was the August 21, 2017 total solar eclipse.
DENVER (KDVR)  A Denver auto theft victim took matters into her own hands after a thief stole her car in broad daylight.

Holley Kaufman walked out of work Monday afternoon and noticed her car was gone.

In the past, Ive had a vehicle stolen and they rip out your whole car, tear everything up, try to live in it and put drugs in it, Kaufman told Nexstars KDVR. Well, this is a car that I carry my 4-year-old son in, so Im like, This not happening in my car.

Her Mazda has an app that allows her to connect with the car.

I kept setting the alarm off and stopping the car on the person, and then it has GPS where you can see where your car is, and it was in a Safeway parking lot, so we started going there, Kaufman said.

Deputies find giant bag of weed during roadside trash pickup

Kaufman got someone she knew to drive her there and while she spoke with a 911 dispatcher.

She (the dispatcher) is like, Maam, you are going to put yourself in danger, Kaufman recounted. She said they dont have anyone on duty to help me right now, so I said, OK, this is the address Im going to be at, Im going to be there in five minutes and you can either meet me or Ill be getting my car.

Kaufman found her car and the alleged thief was not inside. She said she discovered a pipe, alcohol, and receipts from returns made that morning inside, which she told KDVR she gave to police.

I just feel super violated, and at that point in time, there is nothing that was going to change my mind. I was getting my car, I knew they didnt have time, so I just got it myself, Kaufman said. Im not advising people to do what I did, but at some point, something needs to change.

Possible moonshine cave discovered under North Wilkesboro Speedway stands: officials

The Denver Police Department does not recommend people try to recover their stolen vehicle on their own and asks crime victims to wait for police. The department also suggests registering for the DenverTrack program if your vehicle is equipped with a GPS tracker, saying it helps officers locate their vehicle faster.

A recent report from the Colorado State Patrol shows there was a significant reduction in auto thefts last year compared to 2022.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
SINGAPORE, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Officers from Singapore's Transport Safety Investigation Bureau and Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) have started traveling to Baltimore in the United States to support the investigation into a vessel-bridge collision incident, according to the latest statement from the MPA.

A Singapore-flagged container vessel collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday, and the bridge collapsed.

The ship management company, Synergy Marine Pte Ltd, reported that the vessel lost propulsion before the incident. As a result, it failed to maintain the desired heading and collided with the bridge, said the statement.

The vessel was reported to have dropped its anchors as part of the emergency procedures prior to its impact with the bridge. The vessel was under pilotage at the time of the incident, the MPA added.

Search and rescue efforts led by U.S. authorities are ongoing, according to the statement. 
Former President Donald Trump lashed out at the judge overseeing his Manhattan criminal hush-money case and his daughter after being hit with a gag order on Tuesday.

Trump on Wednesday accused Judge Juan Merchan of issuing an illegal, un-American, unConstitutional [sic] gag order barring him from discussing jurors and potential witnesses in the case as well as court staff, the district attorneys staff, and their families.

This Judge, by issuing a vicious Gag Order, is wrongfully attempting to deprive me of my First Amendment Right to speak out against the Weaponization of Law Enforcement, Trump wrote, claiming he has done nothing wrong.

Trump, who lashed at Merchans daughter on Tuesday, again targeted her in his posts Wednesday morning, claiming she represents Crooked Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Adam Shifty Schiff, and other Radical Liberals and has just posted a picture of me behind bars, her obvious goal, and makes it completely impossible for me to get a fair trial.

So, let me get this straight, the Judges daughter is allowed to post pictures of her dream of putting me in jail, the Manhattan D.A. is able to say whatever lies about me he wants, the Judge can violate our Laws and Constitution at every turn, but I am not allowed to talk about the attacks against me, and the Lunatics trying to destroy my life, and prevent me from winning the 2024 Presidential Election, which I am dominating? Trump continued in another post.

Maybe the Judge is such a hater because his daughter makes money by working to Get Trump, and when he rules against me over and over again, he is making her company, and her, richer and richer. How can this be allowed?

Trump last May in a court filing demanded Merchan recuse himself from the case, citing his daughters role as an executive at Authentic Campaigns, a firm that works for various Democrats including Biden. Its not immediately clear if she still works there, according to CNBC. Merchan refused to step down from the case.

Georgie State University Law Prof. Anthony Michael Kreis noted that Trump is free to attack Merchans daughter under the gag order issues on Tuesday but it is not wise to antagonize a judge.

He's free to do so by the terms of the gag order; although it is not wise to antagonize a judge. https://t.co/Vi0CwAOO4Y pic.twitter.com/9MiLphmvG9  Anthony Michael Kreis (@AnthonyMKreis) March 27, 2024
Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday signed the state legislation that will allow Tallahassee Community College to be renamed Tallahassee State College. The name change is effective July 1.

We are so grateful to the governor for taking the time to mark this significant occasion with us, TCC President Jim Murdaugh said in a prepared statement sent to the Tallahassee Democrat. We look forward to moving into the future together as Tallahassee State College.

Tallahassee Community College President Jim Murdaugh

The Wednesday signing comes after the bill (SB 522) was passed by lawmakers and presented to DeSantis March 19 following the 2024 legislative sessions end.

The name means TCC will now be branded as a state college, falling in line with most of the other colleges in the Florida College System.

It will mark the colleges second renaming in history after it was changed from Tallahassee Junior College to TCC in 1970. A new logo is also underway after the college has already had at least five different logos throughout history.

This college does an outstanding job preparing students for success, and Florida is proud to be home to the nation's finest education system, DeSantis said in an X post Wednesday afternoon, where he announced the signed legislation.

Ive signed legislation to rename Tallahassee Community College to Tallahassee State College, conforming it to other institutions in Florida that are branded as state colleges.



This college does an outstanding job preparing students for success, and Florida is proud to be home pic.twitter.com/DJPj4JO2Ua  Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) March 27, 2024

DeSantis is pictured in the social media post holding up the signed bill as he is surrounded by stakeholders including Murdaugh, TCC Vice President for Communications and Chief of Staff Candice Grause, the colleges Board of Trustees members and Sen. Corey Simon, R-Tallahassee.

While Simon sponsored the bill in support of TCC's efforts to officially change the name of the college in state law, Rep. Jason Shoaf, R-Port St. Joe, sponsored the measure (HB 501) on the Houses side.

More on TCC renaming: Tallahassee Community College renaming moves closer to approval in legislative session

TCC has been working on making the new name a reality to match its increased national recognition, where more than 60% of its students come from outside of the service district of Leon, Gadsden and Wakulla counties.

In addition, TCC added additional bachelors degree programs to its offerings last fall  including a bachelor of applied science in business administration, a bachelor of science in elementary education and a bachelor of science in exceptional student education  that contribute to its evolving status in Florida.

The college will present a resolution about the renaming Monday April 15 during its upcoming Board of Trustees meeting on campus, followed by a reception, according to a TCC spokesperson.

Contact Tarah Jean at tjean@tallahassee.com or follow her on X: @tarahjean_.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: TCC renamed Tallahassee State College after governor signs bill
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  WREG Investigators are digging deeper into the backlog at criminal court and whats being done to fix it. We uncovered new data that shows fewer trials are happening  but depending on who you ask, that may not be a bad thing.

When COVID hit, the courts shut down and cases amassed. Crime has also increased adding to the massive pile.

These delays are catastrophic, Retired Shelby County Criminal Court Judge Bobby Carter said before county leaders in January.

Judge calls delays in Shelby County criminal court system catastrophic

He spent months reviewing the criminal court system at the request of the former Memphis mayor. Carter said before COVID, trials were common, and the courts were getting back to that tempo until 2022, when five new judges and a new district attorney were elected.

He said trials started to drastically decline. Some cases have been pending three or more years.

 Read Part 1 of this three-part series, Whats delaying criminal court cases

Carter said for the system to work, plea agreements have to happen. But with the delays and without the assurance of a speedy trial, a defendant has no incentive but to delay their matter as long as possible.

Those in the system said the longer it takes to resolve a case, the harder it is for a prosecutor to put on a good case. It also jeopardizes defendants right to a speedy trial. Some believe it poses a public safety threat since so many defendants are out on bond waiting for their case to be resolved.

The Shelby County Criminal Clerks office reports 41 trials in 2019 before COVID. That number was cut in half in 2022. There were 22 trials last year and nine in the first two months of this year.

The reason Im concerned about the lack of trials we have in Shelby County is because we have a backlog. There are hundreds of cases that have been decided we are going to trial on these cases, Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy said.

He said his office is trying to chip away at the backlog. They started fast-tracking cases that involve high-profile charges, supervisors are now meeting with prosecutors when cases take more than 60 days to indict, and theyve become less inclined to reset trials.

He said in a press conference last week that his office is successfully trying more cases and are on track to double last years totals.

Why he believes that hasnt been happening is because some of the judges are recently elected and dont have as much experience trying cases. In one instance, we have a criminal court division judge who is under indictment for a lengthy period of time on medical leave.

State asks to revoke bond for judge after drug test

Some judges, however, see it differently. Criminal Court Judge Christopher Craft said in December that he used to try three cases a month.

I havent worked more than one in three to four months. I cant get a case to go to trial. A lot are settling or working themselves out, he said.

We uncovered data from the Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts. Keep in mind, they tally the data by each charge filed. One person might face multiple charges or multiple people charged for the same crime.

Between July 2022 and June 2023, charges resulted in pleas 40 times more than a trial.

Just looking at the 739 homicide charges during that time, 55% were dismissed, about 10% were guilty pleas as charged, and 26% were guilty pleas with a lesser charge. Less than 1% resulted in a trial and conviction.

There were half the amount of homicide charges during the same time in 2018 through 2019.

But about the same number of pleas and dismissals. The big difference, 16% of homicide charges resulted in trials and a conviction.

We asked the DAs office about the data multiple times over the past three weeks but have yet to hear back.

Mulroy did say, If we didnt have a backlog, we shouldnt care if it was 100 trials or 10 trials, right? As long as the plea deals themselves are fair.

Get the latest from the WREG Investigators in your inbox

One criminal defense attorney agrees. He said negotiations have to happen to keep the system moving.

When you negotiate, you get together and look at all those factors. There may be factors that dont make their case strong anymore for first degree murder or something, or it really may be a case for second degree murder, attorney Michael Scholl explained.

Nationwide, criminal court systems are dealing with this very issue. Like Shelby County, they are battling the same obstacles, like crime labs needing more funding and lagging on processing evidence.

Some courts were able to reduce their backlogs through virtual proceedings or like Detroit, brought it more judges to help and boosted prosecutors pay.

The county and state worked together, and along with other efforts, Detroit saw an 18 percent drop in homicides last year.

Mulroy said he thinks something like that would work in Shelby County.

So does the Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce and 80 business leaders, who signed a letter asking the state to surge available resources to tackle the backlog.

Memphis businesses ask Nashville lawmakers for crime wave aid

A local senator and local commissioner said theyve talked to several circuit court judges who are willing to volunteer. As they also make threats to pull funding if things dont speed up.

 On News Channel 3 at 10 p.m. Wednesday:

Murloy said his office is also constantly collecting data to find ways to improve, and now, a group of citizens is also collecting data.

They want to take matters into their own hands to see what needs to change at 201. We will show you what theyre doing and why they need more help.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA)  To help people understand and prepare for severe weather this spring, the National Weather Service Central Illinois is hosting several Storm Spotter Training sessions throughout the area  starting on Wednesday evening in Champaign.

Spring weather can bring tornadoes, thunderstorms, flooding, and more. Knowing how to identify inclement weather and stay safe in the midst of it could help prevent tragedy. The NWS Central Illinois encourages the public to join them for their Storm Spotting Training sessions.

Officials urge severe weather preparedness for spring in IL

Sessions are free and open to the public. Each one lasts around two hours at most with a break in between. Here are the upcoming classes:

March 27 at 6:30 p.m. Champaign  Parkland College (2400 W Bradley Avenue), Agricultural Tech Center, Room W-115

March 28 at 6:00 p.m. Charleston  Buzzard Hall Auditorium (1920 9th Street)

April 2 at 6:30 p.m. Danville  Vermilion County Administration Building (201 N Vermilion Street), 2 nd floor Council Chambers

April 3 at 6:30 p.m. Springfield  Trutter Center, Lincoln Land Community College (5250 Shepherd Road)

April 4 at 6:00 p.m. Rushville  Rushville Fitness & Community Center (120 Rodewald Drive)

April 8 at 6:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.) Lincoln  Lincoln Christian Church (204 North McLean Street)

April 13 at 10:00 a.m. Virtual Training  Registration: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1031676595165049946



One year later: Sherman village remembers tornado, spreads awareness

April 15 at 6:00 p.m. Canton  Fulton County Health Department (700 East Oak Street)

April 16 at 6:30 p.m. Palestine  Outer West Market Church (805 West Market Street) Decatur (Sign-in at 6 p.m.)  Shilling Community Education Center Auditorium, Richland Community College (1 College Park)

April 18 at 6:30 p.m. Taylorville  Taylorville Fire Department (202 North Main Street)

April 22 at 6:30 p.m. Farmer City  Farmer City Fire Department (200 East Clinton Avenue)

April 29 at 6:00 p.m. Toledo  Toledo Fire House (144 Courthouse Square)

May 7 at 6:30 p.m. Virginia  Cass County Health Department (331 South Main Street) Havana  Havana City Center (326 West Market Street)



Aside from the virtual class on April 13, it is not necessary to pre-register for any training sessions.

For more information and a full schedule, visit weather.gov/ilx/spotter.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
NEW YORK  Mayor Eric Adams defended senior adviser Tim Pearson in his first public remarks about the sexual harassment lawsuit against him, telling reporters Tuesday that his longtime ally deserves due process.

Last Thursday, retired NYPD sergeant Roxanna Ludemann alleged in a blockbuster lawsuit that Pearson touched her inappropriately at work and that, when she complained about it, she was retaliated against.

Aside from Pearson, Ludemann named NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey and Internal Affairs Inspector Joseph Profeta as defendants in the Manhattan Supreme Court lawsuit.

In this country, theres something called due process, Adams said when asked why Pearson hasnt faced professional consequences over the lawsuit and other controversies. Due process  thats the cornerstone of our country.

The mayor said Pearson is especially deserving in that regard because, as a former cop, he was in the Trade Center when the buildings collapsed and saved a great deal of people.

Adams wouldnt directly answer, however, when asked whether hes spoken to Pearson about the incident, or whether the allegations appear credible to him. In response, he said hed been advised by city lawyers to let the system do the job.

Ludemanns lawyer, John Scola, criticized Adams due process defense of Pearson, saying in a statement that such a claim only works if the administration only found out about her complaints last week, which clearly they did not.

While this is being investigated the administration should err on the side of caution and remove him from a supervisory position to protect the women in the office, Scola said in a statement.

Ludemann alleges in her lawsuit that in 2022 and 2023 Pearson not only caressed her arms and shoulders on up to 20 different occasions, but that he also asked her sexually suggestive questions, inquired about her marital status and  after she spurned his come-ons  blocked her promotion. At the time, she had been assigned to a special unit formed earlier in Adams administration thats tasked with assessing the performance and efficiency of city agencies.

According to the lawsuit, her superior at the time, Deputy Chief Miltiadis Marmara, witnessed Pearson rubbing on Ludemanns arm during a December 2022 work party. Marmara recommended she file a complaint in response to that incident and backed her when Pearson blocked her promotion a year later.

The lawsuit, first reported by the New York Daily News, isnt the only hot water Pearson finds himself in these days.

After witnesses reported last October that he shoved a migrant shelter security guard to the ground, the citys Department of Investigation opened a probe into the incident. A year earlier, the New York Times reported that Pearson, who collects a $124,000 NYPD pension, was also getting paid two salaries  one as an executive at the Resorts World casino in Queens and the other in his role serving Adams, which falls under the citys Economic Development Corporation, a nonprofit controlled by the mayor.

Adams declined to say Tuesday whether Pearson would be suspended. He also wouldnt respond to questions about whether Pearsons legal representation would be covered by the city.

In instances where city workers are sued, theyre entitled to legal representation under local rules that permit it if the alleged conduct occurred while the employee was acting within the scope of his public employment. But those rules also state the citys Law Department has the ability to deny legal representation if the worker in question violated any rule or regulation of his agency when the alleged wrongdoing took place.

Were very much aware of what the general municipal law says. This is a new case with multiple individuals and different entities, responded the citys Corporation Counsel Sylvia Hinds-Radix. We have to conduct representation interviews. Those interviews will be conducted and we will make a determination when theyre concluded.

Those interviews would determine whether the city reps Pearson, and if so, who would assume that role.

_____

(With Graham Rayman.)

_____
NEW YORK (WPIX)  The NYPD is mourning the loss of one of their own after Officer Jonathan Diller was shot and killed in Far Rockaway, Queens on Monday.

A procession escorted Dillers body to a funeral home on Long Island Tuesday evening. A funeral service for Diller is scheduled for Saturday morning.

Diller, 31, was a husband and a father to a young child. His death is described as a senseless act of violence, and Mayor Eric Adams called him a hero.

He put himself in harms way. He went towards the danger, all to keep the people we serve safe and to protect his fellow New Yorkers, NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban said.

NYPD officers were seen outside of the hospital where Diller was taken, saluting him as his body was transferred.

Diller was a three-year veteran of the police department, who was working for the community response team in Queens South when he was killed. During his career, he made more than 70 arrests.

Even after Diller was shot in the stomach, he still tried to disarm the shooter, according to authorities.

Man fatally pushed onto subway tracks in East Harlem: NYPD

The gun hit the ground; and as the perpetrator was still reaching for it, this cop was able to grab it, although he was still shot, said NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny.

Dillers passing marks the first death of an NYPD officer on the job since 2022 when officers Wilbert Mora and Jason Rivera were ambushed and killed in Harlem during a domestic disturbance call.

The FDNY expressed its condolences over Dillers death as well as Sen. James Sanders Jr, who said in part, Officer Jonathan Diller dedicated his life to serving and protecting our community. His bravery and commitment will never be forgotten.

These police officers who pack the halls just lost a brother. Our hero police officer confronted this dangerous individual knowing that he was putting himself at risk, knowing that he had a family waiting for him at home. But he did it to protect the people of this city, and we need every single New Yorker to be with this family, said PBA president Patrick Hendry.

A GoFundMe page was started for Dillers family. So far, its raised more than $130,000.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Former President Obama is holding regular calls with White House chief of staff Jeff Zients amid growing fears that former President Trump will win the 2024 election, the New York Times reported Wednesday.

Obama's calls with Zients and top aides at Biden's campaign reportedly center around election strategy and relaying advice from Obama's team. A senior aide on Obama's team told the Times that the former president has "always" been concerned about a Trump victory, and he is now working to bolster the Biden campaign any way he can.

A source familiar with Biden and Obama's interactions told Fox News Digital that the pair "speak regularly on a range of topics from 2024 to health care."

The source added that Biden also has frequent discussions with former President Clinton, and he has aides follow up with both of the former leaders' teams on a regular basis.

OBAMA BALKED AT BIDEN'S ASSERTION THAT RUSSIA SHOULD 'PAY IN BLOOD AND MONEY' AFTER 2014 INVASION: BOOK

Former President Obama is holding regular calls with White House chief of staff Jeff Zients amid growing fears that former President Trump will win the 2024 election, the New York Times reported Wednesday.

TIME Magazine also reported on Obama's increased concern about the 2024 election last week. The publication reported that Obama met personally with Biden on at least two recent occasions and expressed concern that he could lose the 2024 election.

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Obama reportedly advised Biden to become more aggressive and make the upcoming presidential race a referendum on Trump.

BIDEN PRIVATELY DEFIANT THAT HE DIDN'T BOTCH AFGHANISTAN WITHDRAWAL: BOOK

During a private lunch, Obama told Biden his campaign was unstable, persuading unhappy voters would be a challenge and defeating Trump would be more difficult than 2020, according to a Democrat briefed on the discussion.

Former President Obama is gravely concerned about former President Trump winning the 2024 election, according to multiple reports.

NETANYAHU BLASTS SCHUMER, BIDEN OVER WANING SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL

Obama is not the only former president looking to help Biden. He and Clinton will both attend a major fundraiser for Biden at Radio City Music Hall in New York on Thursday.

Both Obama and former President Bill Clinton will attend a major fundraiser for Biden at Radio City Music Hall in New York on Thursday.

A spokesperson for Obama's office highlighted the team's unity behind Biden in a statement to Fox News Digital last week, saying the Obama Alumni Association hosted an event for Biden's re-election campaign, during which attendees chanted, "Fired up, ready to go," in support of the president.

Fox News' Nikolas Lanum contributed to this report





Original article source: Obama making regular calls to Bidens chief of staff, fears Trump 2024 win: report
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge figures to snarl traffic around Baltimore, but the bigger problem might be the downed bridge's effect on maritime activity.

Until the bridge's wreckage can be cleared away, the Port of Baltimore is cut off from the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the global supply chains beyond. It remains unclear how long the port will be closed, but federal Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Wednesday that there could be a "long and difficult path" ahead.

In the meantime, trade flowing through the port will have to be redirected to other ports along the East Coast. That's a disruption that could mean higher costs and other complicationsand it is a particularly acute issue for the roughly 15,000 workers who earn a living off the commerce that passes through Baltimore's port.

Clearly, there's every reason to make sure the port can be reopened as quickly as possible. Buttigieg acknowledged as much on Wednesday, and said the White House had given a "clear directive" to "tear down any barriers, bureaucratic as well as financial."

But Buttigieg stopped short of naming any specific federal regulations that might be waived to speed along the recovery efforts in Baltimore. Here's one that should go right to the top of the list: The Foreign Dredge Act of 1906.

The Foreign Dredge Act is an older cousin to the more well-known and infamous Jones Act, which bans foreign-built ships from moving goods between American ports. As a result, it drives up shipping prices to places to Puerto Rico and Hawaii, adds traffic to American highways, and leaves sizable parts of the country without access to natural gas.

Like the Jones Act, the Foreign Dredge Act is a purely protectionist law that forbids foreign-built dredgesvessels built to remove debris from waterways and to deepen and widen shipping channelsfrom operating in the U.S. Any foreign dredge caught doing work in American waters is subject to immediate forfeiture.

The law was originally meant to protect American dredge-building companies from foreign competition. More than a century later, however, the primary outcome of the Foreign Dredge Act has been severely curtailing the number of dredges available to do important work like removing the wreckage of the Key Bridge. Many that are in use are sub-standard compared to the rest of the world. The Army Corp of Engineers is still using dredges built in the 1930s, for example, while a recent study from Tulane University found that "the combined capacity of the U.S. [hopper dredge] fleet is less than a single EU [European Union] dredging vessel."

Being shielded from competition means American dredge-building companies haven't needed to keep up with developments made elsewhere in the world. Clearing away the debris and reopening the Port of Baltimore is likely to depend on outdated equipment, and will therefore likely take longer than it otherwise might.

Waiving the Foreign Dredge Act now might help in some small wayperhaps better dredges can be brought in from Canada or somewhere else nearbybut the collapse of the Key Bridge is a great reminder that we shouldn't wait until there's a crisis to start undoing bad laws. It would have been better to repeal the Foreign Dredge Act five or 10 or 50 years ago, so that America would already have access to the best dredging technology in the world.

When there's not a crisis, the Foreign Dredge Act is still a problem. It is one of the main reasons why American ports generally have smaller shipping channels and lower capacity than ports in other parts of the world. Those marginal costs might be easy for policymakers to ignore during normal times, but the closure of the Port of Baltimore should throw this problem into stark relief.

What happens next will be telling. Will the Biden administration follow through on its promise to sweep aside policies that will slow the recovery in Baltimore, or will it choose counterproductive protectionism over the interests of the East Coast's economy and 15,000 blue-collar workers?

The post The Obscure Protectionist Law That Will Slow Clean-up of the Baltimore Bridge Disaster appeared first on Reason.com.
Two recent speeches in Congress, the first in the Senate, the second in the House, show the speed with which the Washington conversation has moved on Israel-Palestine, and the considerable distance that President Biden still has to go to catch up.

The first was from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who delivered a heartfelt and courageous speech on March 15 criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus conduct of the war and calling for new Israeli elections that he hoped would replace Netanyahu and his extremist coalition with more responsible leadership. Quite notably, especially for such a pro-Israel stalwart like Schumer, by suggesting that the U.S. might have to play a more active role in shaping Israeli policy by using our leverage, the speech further opened the door to conditioning U.S. aid to Israel, a steadily crumbling taboo in many Democratic circles.

A week later, another New York Democrat gave a different but also courageous speech on the floor of the House. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez warned of the unfolding genocide caused by the Israeli militarys relentless, indiscriminate bombing of Gaza and its continued restricting of humanitarian aid. Citing President Bidens own past words about the importance of acting against atrocities before its too late, she called on him to uphold U.S. law and suspend military aid to Israel in the face of a looming famine and mass starvation in Gaza.

The two speeches illustrated not only the range of views in todays Democratic Party, but the remarkable extent to which the window has shifted. Schumers speech was in some ways a wistful throwback to a liberal Zionist vision of the past. Ocasio-Cortezs confronted the hard-line Greater Israel reality of the present. Much of what Schumer said would have been unthinkably radical on the floor of the Senate 10 years ago. Today it represents the rightward edge of the party.

Still, one element of Schumers speech is worth raising here, not only for what it said but for what he left out. Right now, there are four major obstacles standing in the way of two states, and until they are removed from the equation, there will never be peace in Israel and Gaza and the West Bank, Schumer said. Those four major obstacles are: Hamas, and the Palestinians who support and tolerate their evil ways. Radical right-wing Israelis in government and society. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

He couldve added one more obstacle: The United States Congress. The recently passed spending bill, which the president signed last Saturday, is a great example of the destructive role Congress has played in this area. Not only does it block funding for the largest aid provider to Palestinians, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, or UNRWA, based on as-yet unproven allegations that a few UNRWA employees took part in the October 7 attacks, but it includes a number of other long-standing anti-Palestinian measures like limiting aid to the Palestinian Authority if the Palestinians initiate or support an International Criminal Court investigation against Israel for human rights violations, or seek to upgrade their status at the United Nations or in other international fora. That is, it punishes the Palestinians for engaging in nonviolent diplomacy.

Congress has been the key player in the Catch-22 in which the Palestinians have been trapped: Violent resistance is unacceptable. Nonviolent resistance is also unacceptable. The only acceptable path to liberation is to negotiate with an Israeli government that is fundamentally opposed to granting it and is continually protected by the U.S. Congress from any consequences for that opposition.

Indeed, Congress has even protected the Israeli government from pressure from U.S. presidents. When President Obama attempted in 2011 to reiterate support for a two-state solution along the 1967 lines, a position consistent with both international law and past U.S. administrations, he was attacked not just by Netanyahu and Republicans but by thenDemocratic Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. And Schumer notoriously sided with Netanyahu against Obamas nuclear agreement with Iran. Its safe to assume that Congresss opposition to applying any meaningful pressure on Israel killed any number of other regional diplomatic initiatives before they were even tried.

Polls have shown for years that more and more Democrats, now a majority, favor a more even-handed U.S. approach to Israel-Palestine. Congress is always the last to find out, but both Schumers and Ocasio-Cortezs speeches are evidence that this is finally changing. And the pro-Israel lobby AIPAC and its partner groups would very much like it not to change, which is why theyve launched a multimillion-dollar effort, much of it provided by conservative Republican donors, to intervene in Democratic primaries against progressives.

On the one hand, its clarifying that AIPAC is admitting what it takes to sustain an Israel-can-do-no-wrong majority in Congress: tens of millions of dollars. At long last, were finally having an honest conversation about that. But its also worth noting that AIPAC is literally buying time here. They may slow the shift in the party, driven by its progressive wing and by Israels own behavior, but they wont stop it.

What they could do though is depress Democratic get-out-the-vote efforts by knocking off progressive champions. Serious Democrats should be concerned about this. The danger is not just that a lot of these Democrats, already outraged by Bidens Gaza policy, wont vote in the general. Its that they wont get the vote out. They wont do the phone banking, canvassing, door knocking, and volunteering that will be necessary to maximize turnout. If this election comes down to a few hundred thousand votes in a few key states, as it almost certainly will, this could make the difference. It will have impacts down the ticket as well, determining control of the House and Senate.

We should all understand the stakes of Novembers election. There is no plausible argument that a Trump victory would or could produce better progressive outcomes than a Biden reelection, even in the longer term. Certainly not in Israel-Palestine. But for many progressive voters, withholding their votes is the last protest they feel is available in response to a president who they feel simply refuses to hear them.

The debate over Gaza has become a proxy for a larger debate about Americas role in the world, and about the future of the Democratic Party. Biden and Schumer represent an old-guard view, forged during the Cold War and the unipolar postCold War era, in which the United States pursued global hegemony with little regard for the impact of that pursuit on the worlds least powerful communities. Lockstep support for Israel was reflective of this old approach. Younger Democrats have far less interest in the maintenance of American dominance. They are done with engaging with the world primarily through the use and supply of deadly weapons. They are tired of their government upholding a blatant double standard on human rights, and then gaslighting them about that double standard.

No one is asking Biden to withdraw all support for Israelnot Schumer, not AOC, not anyone. Its appropriate to help ensure that another October 7 never happens. The strong solidarity Biden showed with Israels people in the wake of October 7 was important, inspiring, and admirable. But it clearly would have been better if hed moved more quickly to parlay that solidarity into meaningful influence on its military campaign. While he continues to talk about the need to avoid civilian casualties, he wont do anything about it. Mondays decision not to block a cease-fire resolution from the U.N. Security Council was a long-overdue step in the right direction, but the administration then undermined its impact by inexplicably and incorrectly characterizing the resolution as nonbinding. The chasmic disconnect between this presidents words and deeds is part of what rankles. If he wants to repair the damage, if it can be repaired, hes going to have to find a way to bridge that gap.

The answer is not to scream at these voters about the danger of Trump, which is obviously real. Biden has a responsibility here tooboth to those who helped put him in office and to the human rights principles he ran on. He is falling far short on both right now. He has a strong story to tell about his presidency, which boasts some genuinely extraordinary accomplishments that are now being overshadowed by the Gaza catastrophe he is helping inflict.

He needs to show that he understands the stakes, and that he cannot keep showing such disregard for a growing Democratic constituency and the human rights principles he claims to share and then expect to scare his way to reelection just by saying his opponent is worse. The two moving speeches from the New York congressional delegation should serve as a wake-up call. Thousands of Palestinian lives, and potentially the future of American democracy, depend upon the president heeding it.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  The city of Topeka is planning a closed-door meeting to narrow down the city manager search.

In a release from the City of Topeka, Mayor Michael Padilla has called a special meeting with the Governing Body to conduct city manager interviews. The meeting will not be televised due to technical difficulties. There will also be no public comment allowed at this special meeting.

The meeting consists of an executive session, where the Governing Body, Padilla and City Attorney Amanda Stanley will meet for eight hours to interview five city manager candidates.

A spokeswoman with the City of Topeka said the candidates will be announced next week.

Any written comments can be submitted to the City Clerk via email or in-person to the office at 215 SE 7th Street, Room 166.

Last month, the governing body received a list of 42 city manager applicants. Members later narrowed that list down to 14 semi-finalists.

Topekas previous city manager, Stephen Wade, was terminated in July of last year after serving less than a year in the role. A city spokeswoman said the reason for the termination was an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate.

For more local 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.
BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- China Writers Association on Wednesday hosted a symposium to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of the late Chinese martial arts novelist Louis Cha Leung-yung, more widely known by his pen name Jin Yong.

Jin Yong published his first martial arts novel, The Book and the Sword, in 1955 and later went on to create 14 such novels, which were so popular that they inspired the production of numerous movies, dramas, video games and other cultural and creative products.

Jin Yong died at 94 in Hong Kong in 2018. He was also a famous newspaperman and social activist.

Attendees of the symposium stressed the importance of recognizing the power of literature, drawing insights from compelling literary works from China that resonate with audiences, and shouldering the new cultural mission in the new era.

Tie Ning, chairperson of China Writers Association, attended the symposium. 
Oklahoma man arrested after allegedly trying to steal pair of Balenciaga shoes

An Oklahoma man is behind bars after being accused of attempting to steal a pair of Balenciaga shoes from a woman he met on a selling app, Fox 25 reported.

Oklahoma City Police told Fox 25 that the victim was trying to sell her red and silver Balenciaga shoes on the marketplace app, Offer Up, and was contacted by someone with the username "Turbo", who was later identified as 21-year-old Tabor Carter.

The victim reported she and Carter agreed to meet at a 7-Eleven, but Carter never showed up.

The victim and her mother reportedly went to a T-Mobile location after Carter failed to show up, when he messaged her shortly after to make the transaction. However, when the woman walked up to his car, he pulled out a "Glock-like" pistol and pointed it at the victim's head, Fox 25 reported.

NYC SERIAL BURGLAR POSING AN AMAZON WORKER LINKED TO 9 BREAK-INS, STOLE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS: POLICE

Tabor 'Turbo' Carter, 21, was arrested after reportedly trying to steal a pair of designer sneakers from a woman he met on a selling app.

"The victim indicated she was there to sell shoes to the suspect, during that exchange, the suspect pulled out a firearm and demanded the property from the victim," Staff Sgt. Dillon Quirk with OKCPD told Fox 25.

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According to reports, the victim gave Carter the shoes but then reached into the car and took one of the shoes back. Carter then reportedly turned back to get the other shoe, but she told him shed already locked it inside her car.

TEXAS BURGLARY SUSPECT CAUGHT ON VIDEO FAILING TO BREAK INTO HOME, RUNNING AWAY WHEN DISCOVERED

The victim was trying to sell red and silver Balenciaga shoes on the marketplace app, Offer Up.

Carter drove off but was arrested after a police pursuit, Fox 25 reported.

Oklahoma City Police warn anyone who is meeting up to sell items, to do it in a public place with lots of cameras, like your local police station.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Oklahoma City Police Department for more information.





Original article source: Oklahoma man arrested after allegedly trying to steal pair of Balenciaga shoes
A video showing a photoshoot has been falsely labelled on social media as "Pallywood" -- a derogatory term adopted by conspiracy theorists to accuse Palestinians of faking casualties. The footage predates the Israel-Gaza war by several years.

"More Pallywood is Full HD. Despicable scum," reads a Facebook post from February 15, 2024, that appears to show a behind-the-scenes video of a photoshoot.

The clip -- filmed in a sandy and rubbish-strewn area -- shows a photographer ripping a boy's tunic and wrapping his arm in a bandage before smearing it with fake blood. Two men wearing military fatigues can also be seen.

Screenshot of false post taken on March 27, 2024

Posts describing the footage as "Pallywood" -- a derogatory label that blends "Palestine" and "Hollywood" -- have popped up on social media globally, including in Israel , the Netherlands and Ukraine.

The clip is just one of numerous videos that have been shared alongside a similar misleading claim online since Palestinian Islamist group Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing at least 1,160 people, according to an AFP tally of official Israeli figures.

Militants also seized about 250 hostages, of whom Israel believes 130 remain in Gaza, including 33 who are presumed dead.

Israel's military has waged a retaliatory offensive against Hamas that has killed over 32,400 people, most of them women and children, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry.

The term "Pallywood" often accompanies "crisis actor" conspiracy theories, which accuse civilians from both Israel and the Gaza Strip of faking injuries or deaths to demonise the other side.

But the video predates the war in Gaza.

'Iraq photoshoot'

A keyword search of the Instagram handle "1.q3i" seen in the video in the false post found a TikTok account which posted the same video on December 15, 2022 (archived link), about a year before the Israel-Gaza war erupted in October 2023.

It shows the same boy and man setting up a shot.

The overlaid text in Arabic says "A shy kid" while the caption, also in Arabic, says "The second account of Salji the photographer".

Below is a screenshot comparison of the clip in the false posts (left) and the TikTok video (right):

Screenshot comparison of the clip in the false post (left) and the original video on Tiktok (right)

The photographer did not respond to AFP's request for comment, however, he told the Australian Associated Press that his name was Murtada Fallah and he filmed the video in 2019 during a photoshoot in Baghdad (archived link).

He also posted additional footage on TikTok (here and here) from the same shoot (archived links here and here).

AFP identified one of the soldiers' shoulder patches with an eagle as the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service (CTS) insignia, as shown on the agency's verified account on social media platform X (archived link).

Below is a comparison between a screenshot of the video in the false posts (left) and an AFP photo of a CTS member (right), taken in the southern Iraq city of Basra with the insignia highlighted in red:

Screenshot of misrepresented footage showing Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service insignia.

Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Services (CTS) members secure the street close to the Basra International Hotel where Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi stays in Basra on September 10, 2018. HAIDAR MOHAMMED ALI AFP

Fallah's other shoots have shown Baghdad's Martyr Monument and an Iraqi SWAT vehicle (archived links here and here).

AFP has debunked other misinformation about the Israel-Hamas war, including false "crisis actor" claims here and here.
Police at the site of a Russian military strike on Kharkiv - Vyacheslav Madiyevskyy/REUTERS

One person has been killed and 16 injured, including children, following a Russian missile strike on Kharkiv, local officials reported.

A blow to the residential microdistrict of Kharkiv in apartment buildings. There are dead and wounded, Ihor Terekhov, the citys mayor, posted on Telegram. Inspection of apartments in affected houses continues. We are looking for those who need help.

The attack marks the first time that Kharkiv has been hit by aerial bombs since 2022, Serhiy Bolvinov, a regional police chief, said.

Images of the incident, which wounded four children, were posted on social media and show damage to the windows and balconies of a five-storey apartment building with the body of a man lying on the floor outside.

The explosion took place at a playground between two apartment buildings in the northwestern part of the city, local media reported.

Follow the latest updates below

03:30 PM GMT

Thats all for today

Thank you for tuning in to todays live blog. Well be back tomorrow to bring you all the latest from the Russia-Ukraine war.

Key moments from today:

More than 10,000 Ukrainian civilians are being held by Russia, with more than 5,600 of them subjected to torture, Kyivs prosecutor general has said.

The death toll in last weeks Moscow concert hall attack has risen to 140 after another victim died in hospital, Russian officials reported.

Russia cannot defeat Ukraine or the West - and will likely lose - if the West mobilises its resources, a leading think tank has said.

An assassination campaign possibly run by Kyivs security services has killed more than a dozen Ukrainian citizens collaborating with the Kremlin in Russian-occupied territory, Ukraines spy chief has said.

Emmanuel Macron has infuriated US officials by hinting that Nato troops could be deployed in Ukraine, Bloomberg reported.

Vladimir Putins close allies refuse to believe his claim that Ukraine was involved in the terrorist attack in Moscow last week that left at least 137 people dead.

Ukraine has dug miles of trenches in Kherson to bolster its defences against Russian attacks, regional military officials reported.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, has promised a wider shake-up after dismissing Oleksiy Danilov, Ukraines security council secretary.

Ukrainian forces have repelled 21 attacks on the Novopavlivka front in Donetsk over the past day, Kyivs general staff reported.

Alexander Lukashenko has said the terrorists who gunned down at least 193 people at a Moscow concert venue last week initially tried to flee to Belarus, contradicting Vladimir Putins claims.

Ukraine has sunk or disabled a third of all Russian warships in the Black Sea, Dmytro Pletenchuk, Kyivs navy spokesman, said.

03:24 PM GMT

Russia tortures more than five thousand Ukrainians

More than 10,000 Ukrainian civilians are being held by Russia, with more than 5,600 of them subjected to torture, Kyivs prosecutor general has said.

There are different figures. We estimate tens of thousands, more than 10,000 for sure, Andrii Kostin told Interfax-Ukraine. We are talking only about those who were forcibly relocated, not about those who made this decision at their own discretion.

As for the victims of torture, Kostin said the true figures may be much higher, adding that 164 Russian torture chambers and forced detention centres have been discovered in liberated Ukrainian territories.

His warning comes as least 32 Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) were executed in Russia this winter, a UN human rights report has found.

The report, based on interviews with 60 Ukrainian soldiers released from captivity, verified three of these incidents in which Russian servicemen executed seven Ukrainian servicemen hors de combat, it read.

03:23 PM GMT

Hard to believe Islamic State behind Moscow attack, says Kremlin

It is extremely hard to believe that Islamic State had the capacity to launch last Fridays Moscow terror attack that killed 140 people, the Kremlin has claimed.

Maria Zakharova, Russias Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, accused Western media of rushing to pin the blame for the attacks on Islamic State, who have claimed responsibility, as a way of deflecting blame from themselves and Ukraine.

In order to ward off suspicions from the collective West, they urgently needed to come up with something, so they resorted to ISIS, pulled an ace out of their sleeve, she said. Literally a few hours after the terrorist attack, the Anglo-Saxon media began disseminating precisely these versions.

Moscow has repeatedly alleged, without providing evidence, that Ukraine was behind the deadliest terrorist attack on Russian soil in 20 years at Crocus City Hall.

02:52 PM GMT

Moscow terror attack death toll rises to 140

The death toll in last weeks Moscow concert hall attack has risen to 140 after another victim died in hospital, Russian officials reported.

That person was one of five still hospitalised in an extremely grave condition, and the doctors did everything they could to save them, Mikhail Murashko, Russias health minister, said.

A total of 80 people injured in the attack remain hospitalised, Mr Murashko added, and 205 others have sought outpatient medical assistance.

01:59 PM GMT

Central Asian countries issue travel warnings following Moscow attack

Kyrgyzstans foreign ministry has urged its citizens to put off unnecessary travel to Russia after the Crocus Hall massacre was blamed on migrants from Central Asia.

Last Fridays attack on a concert venue near Moscow has fanned the flames of anti-immigrant sentiment in Russia after it emerged seven of the suspects originated from Tajikistan while another was from Kyrgyzstan.

In an advisory issued this week, the Kyrgyz foreign ministry urged citizens to visit Russia only if necessary and, if they do, to make sure they have all the required documents on them at all times and comply with lawful orders of Russian police.

Authorities in neighbouring Uzbekistan issued similar advice to any Uzbek citizens currently in Russia or planning to go there, local media reported.

Hundreds of thousands of Central Asians work in Russia, and some have already said it has become tougher for them to do so, with Russian passengers allegedly refusing to ride in taxis with Tajik drivers.

Radio Free Europe reported that many passengers trying to fly to Moscow on Monday from the capital of Turkmenistan, another Central Asian state, were not allowed to board. It said they were told by immigration and law enforcement officials that this was connected to the recent terrorist attack in Moscow.

01:23 PM GMT

Russia will likely lose to Ukraine if West steps up aid

Russia cannot defeat Ukraine or the West - and will likely lose - if the West mobilises its resources, a leading think tank has said.

The Wests existing capability is more than 33 times greater than that of Russia, the Institute for the Study of War highlighted, arguing that the assumption Ukraine cannot win is a disinformation campaign spread by Moscow.

The notion that the war is unwinnable because of Russias dominance is a Russian information operation, it said. Perception manipulation is one of the Kremlins core capabilities  now unleashed with full force onto the Western public as the Kremlins only strategy for winning in Ukraine.

The warning comes amid reports of acute ammunition shortages in Ukraine as an aid package worth more than $60 billion remains tied up in US congress.

The United States must surge its support to Ukraine, and it must do so in time, the ISW said. Delays come at the cost of Ukrainian lives, increased risk of failure in Ukraine, and the erosion of the US advantage over Russia.

12:57 PM GMT

Update: One dead, four wounded in Russian strikes on Ukraine

One woman was killed and four others wounded in Russian attacks on eastern and southern Ukraine, officials have said.

The governor of Ukraines southern Kherson region, which is partially occupied by Russia, said one woman had been killed in a drone attack on the village of Mykhailivka.

A 61-year-old local resident was fatally wounded in her own home, the official, Oleksandr Prokudin, wrote on social media.

This follows that announcement from Oleg Sinegubov, the governor of the eastern Kharkiv region, that three men and one woman all over the age of 50 were injured in separate strikes on towns and villages in the region with artillery and rockets.

See post at 7.56am for more details on the strikes on Kharkiv.

12:22 PM GMT

Pictured: Russian and Ukrainian troops in action

A Russian soldier carries a captured Ukrainian drone restored and modernized by the military at an undisclosed location in Ukraine - Russian Defense Ministry

Ukrainian soldiers practice trench operations in Donetsk - Getty Images/ Wolfgang Schwan

12:05 PM GMT

Russia looks into alleged US terrorist funding

Russian state investigators have said they will study a request from parliamentarians to investigate what they called the organisation, financing, and conduct of terrorist acts against Russia by the United States and other Western countries.



The proposed investigation comes after the director of Russias FSB security agency said that he believed Ukraine, along with the United States and Britain, was involved in the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack outside Moscow that killed at least 139 people.



David Cameron, Britains foreign secretary, posted on Twitter: Russias claims about the West and Ukraine on the Crocus City Hall attack are utter nonsense.



The Jihadist militant group Islamic State has taken responsibility for the Moscow shooting, a claim that has been backed up by US and French intelligence.

11:49 AM GMT

Kyiv carries out assassination campaign against pro-Kremlin Ukrainian officials

An assassination campaign possibly run by Kyivs security services has killed more than a dozen Ukrainian citizens collaborating with the Kremlin in Russian-occupied territory, Ukraines spy chief has said.

Lt. Gen. Vasyl Malyuk, the head of Ukraines security service (SBU), said that since Russias full-scale invasion, secret operatives have targeted very many individuals responsible for attacks against Ukrainian citizens, working deep behind enemy lines, including in Russia.

He claimed that the assassination campaign, run through networks of secret agents, has prioritised Ukrainian nationals collaborating with Moscow to arrest and torture other Ukrainians, but that formally, Kyiv cannot take responsibility for the killings.

Officially, we will not admit to this, he said, speaking in an hour-long interview with ICTV, the national broadcaster. But at the same time, I can offer some details.

Lt. Gen. Malyuk went on to list, in precise detail, how several pro-Kremlin officials were killed, including the calibre of bullet and the exact weight of explosives used.

11:22 AM GMT

Senior US officials angered by Macron calls to send troops to Ukraine

Emmanuel Macron has infuriated US officials by hinting that Nato troops could be deployed in Ukraine, Bloomberg reported.

The French president last month refused to rule out putting boots on the ground in Ukraine, a move that senior US officials say risks triggering direct conflict with Moscow, according to one official familiar with the matter.

Mr Macrons comments were designed to keep the Kremlin guessing, but officials familiar with Nato discussions on Ukraine said they may have had the opposite effect.

By forcing Berlin to publicly rule out the possibility of sending troops, Macron managed to dispel what lingering ambiguity there had been about the whereabouts of allies red lines, it is reported.

Meanwhile, from an operational standpoint, the comments risked jeopardising several countries who already, quietly, have some personnel in Ukraine, separate officials reported.

11:04 AM GMT

Pictured: Ukraines war effort at the front and at home

Ukrainian soldiers of the 22nd mechanised brigade prepare to launch a Poseidon H10 mid-range drone near Bakhmut, Donetsk - Efrem Lukatsky/AP

The Food Train, a kitchen train that can produce more than 10,000 servings of food a day, even in the absence of power, operates in Kharkiv - Shutterstock

Volunteers unload the Food Train for locals in Kharkiv - SERGEY KOZLOV/EPA-EFE

10:31 AM GMT

Putins inner circle dont believe Ukraine behind Moscow attack

Vladimir Putins close allies refuse to believe his claim that Ukraine was involved in the terrorist attack in Moscow last week that left at least 137 people dead.

Kremlin officials were shocked by the failure of the security services to prevent Fridays massacre when four men opened fire at concert goers at Crocus City Hall outside Moscow, Bloomberg reported, citing four people with close ties to the Kremlin. Barely anyone within Russias political or business elite believes Ukraine was behind the attack.



According to one source, Putin was present at discussions where officials agreed there is no connection to Kyiv, yet the president remains determined to use the tragedy to try to rally Russians behind the war in Ukraine.



Ukraine has flatly denied any involvement, while the militant group Islamic State has claimed responsibility - a claim backed up by US intelligence.

10:01 AM GMT

Watch: Ukraine digs mass trenches to withstand a Russian offensive

Ukraine has dug miles of trenches in Kherson to bolster its defences against Russian attacks, regional military officials reported.

Footage of the trenches posted on social media shows a web of deep furrows carved into barren fields with vast quantities of earth piled up nearby.

There are kilometres of anti-tank trenches and non-explosive barriers, Oleksandr Prokudin, Khersons military chief, posted on Telegram. We are building this second line of defence in Kherson Oblast. We are doing this with one goal in mind  to protect the already liberated territories.

President Zelensky announced earlier this month that Kyivs military is on track to construct over 1,200 miles of defensive fortifications aimed at fending off a Russian offensive, which is expected in the Spring.

09:24 AM GMT

Zelensky pledges further changes following surprise reshuffle

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, has promised a wider shake-up after dismissing Oleksiy Danilov, Ukraines security council secretary.

The strengthening of Ukraine and the renewal of our state system in all areas will continue, Mr Zelensky said in his evening address after replacing Mr Danilov with Oleksandr Lytvynenko, the former foreign intelligence service chief.

The president gave no reason for dismissing Mr Danilov, who has held the post since October 2019  a few months after the president took office  but thanked him for his service.

Ukraines national security and defence council co-ordinates national security and contains the countrys top political, security and defence chiefs.

Mr Zelensky added that Oleh Ivaschenko has been appointed as the new head of foreign intelligence, replacing Mr Lytvynenko, who previously served as the deputy head of Ukraines military intelligence agency (HUR).

The move comes as the president continues to rotate high-ranking security and defence officials, with last months dismissal of Ukraines top general presaging a wider clear-out of the militarys top brass.

08:59 AM GMT

Pictured: A Russian fighter jet firing rockets

A Su-25 ground attack jet of the Russian air force firing rockets during a mission over Ukraine - Russian Defense Ministry

08:27 AM GMT

Ukraine repels tens of attacks on Novopavlivka front

Ukrainian forces have repelled 21 attacks on the Novopavlivka front in Donetsk over the past day, Kyivs general staff reported.

Of particular concern is the settlement of Novomykhailivka, 30 miles southwest of Avdiivka, where Russian ground troops and aircraft have focused the the majority of their efforts, repeatedly attempting to breach Ukrainian defences.

Russian forces are thought to control up to 50 percent of the settlement, the Institute for the Study of War think tank reported.

In total, the enemy carried out four missiles...52 air strikes [and] 43 shelling [attacks]...on the positions of our troops and settlements, Ukraines general staff said in its daily report.

08:08 AM GMT

Belarus undermines Putins claim that Moscow terror suspects were linked to Ukraine

Alexander Lukashenko has said the terrorists who gunned down at least 193 people at a Moscow concert venue last week initially tried to flee to Belarus, contradicting Vladimir Putins claims.

Belaruss strongman president, and Putins arch ally, claimed that Minsk heavily beefed up security on its border with Russia immediately after the attack, which meant the terrorists understood that it was impossible to enter Belarus.

After seeing the security at the border, they changed their plans and turned away and went to the section of the Ukrainian-Russian border, Lukashenko claimed.

Mr Lukashenkos comments appear to be at odds with those of Putin, who has repeatedly claimed, without providing evidence, that the terrorists planned to flee to the Ukrainian border.

07:56 AM GMT

Four wounded by Russian strikes on Kharkiv

Four people were wounded by Russian strikes on Kharkiv in eastern Ukraine, officials said.

Oleg Sinegubov, the local governor, said on social media that three men and one woman all over the age of 50 were injured in separate strikes on towns and villages in the region with artillery and rockets.

The Ukrainian air force said separately that Russian forces had launched 13 Shahed drones at Ukraine overnight and that 10 were downed over Kharkiv, Sumy and near the capital Kyiv.

Sumy also came under heavy fire yesterday with at least 181 explosions reported in the region, the local administration reported.

Russia meanwhile announced that its air defence systems had shot down 18 rockets near the border city of Belgorod, which has recently seen an uptick in Ukrainian strikes. The Belgorod governor said one person was wounded.

07:50 AM GMT

Pictured: Ukraine launches mortars on the front lines

Ukrainian soldiers of the24th brigade load a mortar shell near Toretsk in south eastern Ukraine - Wolfgang Schwan/Getty Images

The soldier fire a mortar shell - Wolfgang Schwan/Getty Images

07:46 AM GMT

Ukraine has sunk one third of Putins Black Sea Fleet

Ukraine has sunk or disabled a third of all Russian warships in the Black Sea, Dmytro Pletenchuk, Kyivs navy spokesman, said.

Mr Pletenchuks comments came after Ukraine on Saturday destroyed the Kostiantyn Olshansky, a Russian landing ship, that was resting in port in Sevastopol. The ship was part of the Ukrainian navy before Russia captured it while annexing the Black Sea peninsula in 2014.

Kyiv previously announced that two other landing ships of the same type, the Azov and the Yamal, were also damaged in Saturdays Neptune missile strike, along with the Ivan Khurs intelligence ship.

Mr Pletenchuk pledged that Ukraine will continue the strikes that have forced Moscow to retreat to the eastern Black Sea, stating: Our ultimate goal is complete absence of military ships of the so-called Russian Federation in the Azov and Black Sea regions.

07:34 AM GMT

UK military couldnt fight Russia for longer than two months

Britain could not fight Russia for more than two months, the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff has admitted, writes Danielle Sheridan.

Lt Gen Sir Rob Magowan said the Armed Forces would have to manage the operational risk that came with not having the resources he would like in future wars.

It comes after Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, told MPs that he had lobbied Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt for more money to be spent on defence in the recent Budget, but failed to secure an increase.

Appearing before MPs at the Commons defence committee, the senior Royal Marines officer said: Weve been very clear that the amount of money were spending on munitions at the moment ... which is significant ... does not meet, in all areas, the threats that we face.

Weve been clear that we need to spend more money, above the programme of record, on what we call integrated air missile defence.

Read Danielles full report here.

07:33 AM GMT

Watch: Why Putin is trying to link Moscow terror attack to Ukraine

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The third largest group of the European Parliament, Renew Europe, has invited Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, to participate in their summits and the MPs from the Servant of the People political party to partially engage in the groups work.

Source: Renew Europe President Valerie Hayer at a briefing following the meeting with Ruslan Stefanchuk, the chairman of the Ukrainian parliament, in Kyiv on 27 March, as reported by European Pravda with reference to Reuters

Details: Renew Europe suggests that the MPs from the Servant of the People party participate in the parliamentary meetings of the group and that Zelenskyy joins the summits of the leaders of the member states: France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Estonia, Slovenia and Bulgaria.

The group also proposed to provide the Servant of the People with expert aid to prepare Ukraine for EU accession negotiations.

"We believe that the Servant of the People will get ever closer to our parliament and the Renew family," said Renew Europe President Valerie Hayer after meeting Ruslan Stefanchuk in Kyiv.

EU officials cited by Reuters stated that the groups initiative is a way of interacting with Ukraine before more concrete steps can be taken in the process of its EU accession.

"We do not have to wait until an official observer status is granted to seriously start working together," said Hayer.

Background: In April 2023, the first joint meeting of the members of the European Parliament and the Ukrainian parliament in history was held in the city of Kyiv at the level of the committee heads.

The Renew Europe group is currently the third largest group in the European Parliament and includes 103 MPs. In 2022, the Servant of the People party joined the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) which is a part of Renew Europe.

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As Utahns, its our obligation to consider the proper role of government. With that in mind, one of my goals is to start an important conversation about whether government control of our internet, with taxpayers assuming the risk and footing the bill, is within that proper role. In Utah, we are seeing a push for local governments to control our internet infrastructure  something that even the bluest states could only dream of.

I was elected to the Utah House of Representatives for eight terms. I served as the speaker of the House for two of those terms. Serving in public office put me in front of everyday Utahns in hundreds of legislative hearings, town hall meetings and campaign events across all 29 counties in Utah. I learned a lot.

Never once, in over 20 years in the public square, did I meet a single Utahn who asked or demanded that any government, from the state down to the city level, take control of internet infrastructure.

Free markets give us our best chance at addressing consumer demand and service. We know this. The call to reject government-funded and controlled internet is not just a philosophical argument. Examples of failed government-controlled supply chains can be found in nations around the world, along with specific examples in the United States and even here in Utah.

The now-defunct iProvo sold its obsolete system to a free-market internet fiber company for $1. Thats $38,999,999 less than the Provo City taxpayers paid for it. Then theres the staggering debt of UTOPIA, a union of cities pushing for greater government control of the market, that is running on big promises and borrowed time.

In defending UTOPIA in the Utah News Dispatch, UTOPIAs CEO, Roger Timmerman, noted that there are about 450 community-owned networks across the country and 50 went online last year. What he failed to mention is that taxpayers are typically left footing the bill for these networks, and millions of dollars are lost in the process. Data from the University of Pennsylvania show that 87% of these projects have insufficient cash flow to achieve long-run solvency.

The message that taxpayers need to send to city leaders is that government prospecting into the internet business, especially where multiple providers already exist and compete, ultimately hurts the very citizens they are elected to serve.

Cities have a conflict of interest when they finance and structure public debt for broadband infrastructure. Their success hinges on either attracting ever more subscribers or having all of the citys taxpayers foot the bill. At the same time, cities have authority to grant permits and levy fees for the private sector to develop or upgrade internet infrastructure. Cities that get into the internet business put themselves in competition with the private sector and imperil city finances. National studies have revealed the chilling effect  cities that pursue government-run broadband deter private-sector investment in those cities.

There are examples of Utah city leaders who understand their proper role. For example, the city I live in, Draper, rejected a proposal to enter the internet business with taxpayers guaranteeing the debt to do it. Draper and its elected leaders wisely prioritize roads, public safety, land-use decisions, parks and recreation  legitimate city government functions. What happened after the city of Draper made it clear it was not becoming an internet company? A brand-new private-sector fiber company arrived and used its own capital to put new fiber infrastructure throughout the city. In Draper, private-sector internet providers continue to see real competition. The bar has been raised, and everyone is benefiting from the arrival of a new provider. The best part? Theres no government subsidy required. Last year, these private-sector companies invested a combined $100 billion in deployment of internet infrastructure  from cable and fiber to satellites and 10G. What happens when the government provider inevitably fails to modernize and keep pace with changes in technology? iProvo has already lived through that scenario, and its only a matter of time before other government-owned networks meet the same fate. Our education campaign at www.nogovinternet.com has received a great response, which I expected. Let us all resolve to be fully informed about the existence and consequences of government-controlled internet. Good information drives good decisions.

Greg Hughes is a former speaker of the Utah House and leads the NoGovInternet.com campaign in Utah.
Once a humble fishing village in China's tropical island province of Hainan, Boao now welcomes visitors from both nearby and afar. Join Xinhua as we explore the town's international charm both within and beyond the Boao Forum for Asia. 
France suffered one of the darkest days in its modern history on Nov. 13, 2015, when over 130 people were killed and hundreds more were injured in a devastating terrorist attack in Paris. The epicenter of the attack was the Bataclan Theater, where a concert was taking place. Terrorists entered the venue and slaughtered indiscriminately, leaving survivors to crawl over dead bodies and wade through pools of blood to escape.

In a tragically similar attack on March 24, three gunmen entered the Crocus City Hall concert venue on the outskirts of Moscow and killed at least 137 people. The shooting was also one of the deadliest terror attacks in Russian history.

Both attacks were perpetrated by the Islamic State.

The impact of the attack on French society was immediate: people reacted with a mix of fear, anger, and defiance. I remember watching on TV as events unfolded, stunned by the terrible images, calling friends around the city to make sure that they were safe. While far from perfect, Frances response to the attacks was dignified, culminating in a fair and robust trial for the organizers.

Although it has only been a few days, Russias response is just the opposite: mutilation, torture, and humiliation. It is part of a long-standing policy of indiscriminate brutality leveled at suspects, convicts, and innocents alike.

Read also: Opinion: Why ISIS attacked Russia and why Russia blames Ukraine

Terror on trial

The longest, most complicated criminal trial in Frances modern history began in June 2021. Judges heard evidence for 148 days against 20 men suspected of organizing and assisting the Nov. 13 attacks. The idea that even those suspected of the most heinous acts deserve a fair trial is deeply ingrained in French society.

The 2007 documentary Terrors Advocate told the story of Jacques Verges, defense counsel to the most prolific Nazi war criminal in France and many other controversial clients. Verges is famous throughout France; his unwavering commitment to the rule of law inspired one of the defense lawyers acting in the Nov. 13 case.

Frances response was not perfect; human rights organizations criticized the prolonged state of emergency and counter-terror laws for being heavy-handed and disproportionate. And yet, France guaranteed the human rights of those suspected of organizing the most devastating terrorist attack in the countrys history.

Above all else, the French response was driven by a desire to show the world: We are not like them.

Meeting violence with violence

The contrast between France's and Russias treatment of terror suspects could not be stronger.

When Russian security forces apprehended one of the terror suspects, they cut off his ear and reportedly forced him to eat it. The suspects mutilation was celebrated on Russian social media, including on a neo-Nazi Telegram channel with more than 8 million followers. The mutilated man appeared in court draped in bloodied bandages and covered in bruises.

Other videos, met with similar adulation, show Russian security forces electrocuting a naked man.

In a Kafkaesque display, another suspect was arraigned for his trial while unconscious. Faced with the mans limp, silent body, the presiding judge determined that the suspect confessed to all charges.

Russias torturous acts and the complete denial of a fair trial amount to blatant human rights violations. To date, we have no way of knowing whether the four men actually committed the acts with which they are charged. But their cruel and barbaric treatment shows what awaits any group labeled as terrorists by the Russian state  regardless of whether they have committed a crime or been convicted of one.

Read also: Opinion: Troops in Ukraine? France-Germany spat plays into Putins hands

Welcome to hell

Even as the Islamic State released harrowing footage of the Crocus City Hall attack, clearly demonstrating the groups responsibility, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that Ukraine helped the terrorists. This is nothing new. The Kremlin persistently labels Ukrainians so-called terrorists and Nazis.

In Russias eyes, there is no difference between the terrorists who carried out the Crocus City Hall attack on the one hand and innocent Ukrainian civilians and soldiers following the laws of war on the other.

Ukrainians face brutal torture in all occupied territories. The United Nations recently confirmed that Russias torture of Ukrainians is widespread and systematic. As the Kherson and Kharkiv oblasts were liberated, survivors reported that beatings, electrocution, and humiliation were routine under occupation for those considered too Ukrainian.

Torture has been a mainstay of Russian policy at home and abroad. More than 20 years ago, human rights investigators documented Russias torture tactics in Chechnya. Welcome to hell, the prison guards told detainees. Today in Ukraine, Russian forces use the same greeting and the same methods.

As many as 11 million Ukrainians are trapped in Russian-occupied territory. With every day that passes, more are dragged into Russias torturous detention system. Their only hope is that Ukraine will free them before Russias torture destroys them.

Editors Note: The opinions expressed in the op-ed section are those of the authors and do not purport to reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent.

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Editors Note: Emma Firth is a journalist and film producer of Danish and British descent who has lived and worked in both countries. She blogs at www.livingthedanishgene.com The views expressed in this commentary are her own. Read more opinion at CNN.

The UN World Happiness Report released last week ranked Denmark the worlds second happiest country for a sixth consecutive year. Denmark came just behind Finland, a country that has now held the top spot for seven years in a row.

Emma Firth - Galyna Baz

You might be tempted to think of Denmark as perennial runner-up. But that would mean you probably dont understand the Danish way of thinking.

People in Denmark have a way of reframing situations that others might see as less than ideal. Writers Jessica Joelle Alexander and Iben Dissing Sandahl get at this mindset in their book, The Danish Way of Parenting, when they describe Danes as realistic optimists. Simply put, Danes are taught to reframe negative situations into positive ones.

For instance, the headlines about the World Happiness Report dont focus on the fact that Danes came second to Finland again, but that Denmark came in first in the 60 years and older category. And news reports dont dwell on the fact that Finland once again reigns supreme, but instead highlight that the margin between the two countries was smaller this year than last.

Denmark achieved an overall score this year of 7.586. Finlands was just a tiny bit higher at 7.804. These scores are mainly calculated from the Gallup World Poll, where around 100,000 people in 130 countries are asked to score their lives on a scale of zero to 10  zero being the worst possible life and 10 being the best.

The Happiness Report then takes an average of the numbers given by those surveyed in each nation across the last three years. This years rankings are from polls carried out between 2021 and 2023. Data is also analyzed from a countrys GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity and corruption.

Meanwhile, the United States fell out of the top 20 of the World Happiness Report for the first time in the dozen years of its existence, landing in 23rd place, largely as a result of a decline in the level of satisfaction expressed by people aged 30 and younger.

When I asked Catarina Lachmund, a senior analyst at Denmarks Happiness Research Institute, what makes Finland happier than Denmark, she jokingly replied, saunas. Finland does have an impressive 3 million saunas for its population of 5.5 million, plus 188,000 lakes and forests that cover 75% of the land, according to Visit Finland. And then there are the Northern Lights, which you can see around 200 nights a year from Lapland, incidentally where Santa Claus lives. Theres a lot to like.

But scientifically, Lachmund said the differences between Denmark and Finland are so minimal that you cant actually point them out. Theres a reason, after all, that Denmark held the title of happiest country in the world three times previously. What both Denmark and Finland have in common is a welfare system that as Lachmund told me, allows you to fail.

You can lose your job in Denmark and be supported by unemployment benefits. You can get sick and not worry about a bill or quality of care. You can have a full year off work to look after your newborn baby and then go back to your job, using childcare that is 75% funded by the state. Education is free, including university where students are paid a monthly state grant for living costs. Theres social housing, abortion rights and unions that are so strong there isnt a need for a national minimum wage.

The confidence in public authorities translates into a society of trust. A trust that is so great, the nursery my toddler went to didnt have a lock. When she napped, it was outside in a pram with a monitor. School playgrounds are open to the public and children as young as nine are trusted to make their own way to school.

Family is also important to Danes. An 80-year old Danish relative of mine thinks its why the older generation came out on top in this years happiness report.

Denmark is very cohesive in terms of family and among older people theres a lot of satisfaction from that, he told me. That feeling of togetherness is part of the concept of hygge  which can be defined as informal time together with the people you love.

Another Danish word to describe a similar concept is flles. Directly translated as shared, it encompasses the idea of togetherness and is found in other words like fllesspisning, an initiative to eat together as a community and fllessang, community singing.

These are wonderful, authentic Danish ideas but it doesnt mean Danes think they should earn the top spot in the World Happiness Report  not even if they had 3 million saunas. Im very pleased not to be number one, it means were not all meant to be happy, one relative on the Danish side of my family told me, with classically dry humor thats a national characteristic.

Heres something else to know about the Danes: They are profoundly, famously self-deprecating. They stoically adhere to an unspoken social code called Jante Law  a concept adhered to throughout all of Scandinavia actually  that discourages individuals from thinking too highly of themselves. Understatement, modesty  even a certain amount ot conformity  are celebrated. That applies to national aspirations as well. Danes dont need a score to show theyre doing well, they know that already. Why rub their neighbors noses in it?

Which brings me back to the World Happiness Report and consistently being runner up to Finland. Denmark was named the happiest country in 2012, 2013 and 2016  and could well claim top spot again someday. But until such a time, allow me to introduce you to another bit of deeply Danish concept.

It has to do with the word pyt, (pronounced pid), which chosen by lexicographers a few years back as Denmarks favorite word. An approximate English translation might be, never mind, stuff happens, and I might be said perhaps with a slight shrug of the shoulders and merest hint of a smile. Its somewhat analogous to the concept that English speakers refer to as water off a ducks back.

It allows Danes to accept a situation like coming in second place without getting too upset about it.

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Editors Note: Brian Bonner, the Kyiv Posts chief editor from 2008-2021, is the host of Hromadske Radios podcast Ukraine Calling. This weekly English-language program, released on Fridays, can be found on Hromadskes YouTube channel and website, as well as on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, Google Podcasts, and Twitter.

In Israel, every citizen can be drafted into the military at the age of 18. In Turkey, the age is 20. When the United States fought its ill-fated war in Vietnam, it sent men into battle at 18  as many other nations do today. More ominously, Russia lowered its draft age to 18 this year as part of a drive to potentially recruit hundreds of thousands more soldiers to fight its war in Ukraine.

While Ukrainian men between the ages of 18 and 60 must register at military enlistment offices and are not permitted to leave the country under martial law, only those over the age of 27 are eligible for conscription. Over two years into Russias full-scale war, this leaves Ukraines exhausted armed forces with soldiers who are, on average, in their 40s and well past their physical prime for hard combat. This will force a hard decision on Ukraines politicians and society with time running short, especially with Russia preparing a spring or summer offensive.

Ukraines politicians have been reluctant to lower the fighting age because it would be unpopular. Many defend the relatively high combat age as a social virtue to protect Ukraines young adults from the battlefield unless they volunteer.

Its laudable that the nations leaders want to protect their young, but in a war for survival, Ukraine simply needs more soldiers.

Last year, Ukraine's parliament approved legislation to lower the conscription age to 25, but President Volodymyr Zelensky did not sign it into law. Now, new legislation has been proposed to do the same, but lawmakers have not acted. If passed and signed into law, the pool of potential recruits would be enlarged by perhaps a few hundred thousand men. The legislation may pass out of necessity, but there is no guarantee that it has enough political support.

Zelensky proceeded to fire the then commander-in-chief of Ukraines Armed Forces, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, months after the popular general said Ukraine needed as many as 500,000 more soldiers.

Zelensky kicked the can down the road by ordering the Ukrainian militarys new commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, to audit the countrys conscripts. Presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak said that, while Ukraine has as many as 1 million personnel in uniform, less than 300,000 may have seen active combat. What the rest are doing is one of the questions the ongoing audit will answer.

Read also: Opinion: Russias policy of torture on show in Moscow terror trial

No one wants to go to war. No one wants to be killed. I am an American who came of age in 1978, five years after my nation ended the draft and switched to a professional army of citizens who voluntarily enlisted. If a foreign enemy took over 20% of the U.S., its hard to imagine that anyone could escape military service.

Despite what French President Emmanuel Macron has recently suggested in his transformation from dove to hawk, foreign governments are not going to send their soldiers to fight Ukraines war  especially with so many Ukrainian men from 18 to 26 not in the fight.

Ukraine is being told this nicely, as my recent guest on Hromadske Radios Ukraine Calling program, Lieutenant General (Ret.) Ben Hodges, did. Few foreigners are more pro-Ukrainian than him, but even he said that Ukraine risks losing support  and aid  over the issue.

When you see that Ukraine is not willing to do everything necessary to have everybody in the fight that is needed, this does run the risk of undermining some support for Ukraine, Hodges told me.

Others are not so nice.

After meeting with Zelensky in Kyiv on March 18, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham  a supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who is no fan of Ukraine  bluntly told Ukraine to recruit more soldiers to fight. Graham voted against the $60 billion aid package that passed the Senate despite his opposition. Trump, however, is dead set against helping Ukraine, and consequently, the assistance package has been held up for months in the Republican-controlled and Trump-subservient U.S. House.

A recruitment billboard for the Ukrainian Armed Forces' Third Separate Assault Brigade in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, on Dec. 15, 2023. (Andriy Andriyenko/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

I would hope that those eligible to serve in the Ukrainian military would join. I cant believe its at 27, Graham told the Washington Post on March 18 in Kyiv. Youre in a fight for your life, so you should be serving  not at 25 or 27. We need more people in the line.

Interestingly, Zelenskys summary of the meeting made no mention of the issue.

Now that Trumpists have seized on the issue, Ukraine would be wise to act before the debate becomes yet another convenient excuse for Americans not to help.

Ukrainians can tell their allies that this issue is none of their business, but that is not a winning strategy for a nation that is so heavily dependent on the West.

Ukrainians and Ukrainians alone will decide the age at which citizens can be sent into combat. But decisions about whether to help Ukraine are made in foreign capitals. As Graham and Hodges comments suggest, the two issues are becoming linked.

With soldiers on the front line serving with little to no break from the fighting, its no wonder their military leaders want fresh troops. The anger of the soldiers on the line is seeping out.

It should not be that someone is leading a nice life in Kyiv and Dnipro, and the military must fight, Yehor Firsov, a deputy commander of a strike force in Ukraines eastern Donbas region, said at a conference in Kyiv on Feb. 24, the two-year anniversary of the full-scale war.

Inna Sovsun, a member of parliament, said she supports lowering the fighting age as a matter of fairness. She said she thinks the measure has the votes to pass Ukraines parliament.

Its been two years of hell for us, Sovsun, whose partner has been fighting at the front for over two years, told Al Jazeera. There is no just way to say who should serve and who shouldnt, and there is no fair way of doing this, but at least it should be more equally distributed, this weight of war.

Read also: Opinion: Why ISIS attacked Russia and why Russia blames Ukraine

Another member of parliament, Solomiia Bobrovska, told me: The need for manpower is critical for our armed forces.

While Kyiv and its residents, including myself, dream of a Victory Day parade that will celebrate the expulsion of Russian forces from all of Ukraines territory, this is not a realistic hope. Russia is not going to stop being an enemy soon, and its imperialistic yearning to recover its lost empire runs deep. Its putting its economy on a perpetual war footing, as its $140 billion defense budget in 2024 suggests.

Zelensky said early in the war Ukraine needs to become a "big Israel." This goal will require a fundamental transformation of Ukrainian society. The nation will have to become more militarily self-sufficient and entice recruits by making them more confident that they will be trained, armed, and taken care of properly. Military experts say that if soldiers believe they will survive the battlefield, they are less likely to evade military service.

Americans lucked out geographically. We have oceans on our eastern and western borders and friendly neighbors on our northern and southern ones. Ukraine lives in a much rougher neighborhood. The nations survival will require having the strongest defense in Europe  not just now but most likely for generations to come. And that means, like other nations that have adopted a total defense policy, everyone who is able will have to join the fight if needed.

For Ukraine to win the war, its foreign allies must give Ukraine all the money and weapons it needs. But victory will also require that Ukraine takes Hodges friendly advice and do "everything necessary" to have everybody in the fight that is needed.

Editors Note: The opinions expressed in the op-ed section are those of the authors and do not purport to reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent.

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Orange County will now send the plan to the Florida Department of Commerce and other state agencies for review and comments.

Those comments will be sent back to the county sometime in April for the next steps.

Walt Disney World Resort had the following statement:

We are responding to Orange County leaderships call to bring more positive change to our community and have a plan that will make a meaningful impact. We are pleased with tonights vote and look forward to continuing our efforts to bring affordable housing to Central Florida. Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs, Walt Disney World Resort

Original story:

Armed with signs and shirts to send a message, people on both sides of a Disney-backed affordable housing project packed Tuesdays Orange County Commission meeting.

Commissioners are set to vote on whether to advance a plan to bring over 1,000 affordable homes to over 70 acres of land off Hartzog Road in Horizon West.

Disney is working with long-time housing developers, The Michaels Organization, to bring approximately 1,400 units of mixed-income housing to Orange County, more than 1,000 of which will be reserved as affordable.

If approved, those affordable homes will be built for people making between 50 and 100 percent of the median income.

Read: New details unveiled as Disneys affordable housing complex overcomes rocky start

According to 2023 HUD data, that means an Orange County family of two, making between $35,150 and $70,000 a year would qualify.

Supporters say the deal is too good to pass up. It includes green space, mixed housing, and two large amenity centers all built by Disney and the Michaels Organization at no cost to taxpayers.

Far too many workers in District One are not able to live in the economies they sustain and the economies they support. Please open the doors to this development, said Father Jose Rodriguez with the Alianza Center, who supports the project.

Read: Disney to break ground on affordable housing complex next year

The community will be spread across more than 70 acres and be divided into six neighborhoods, each with a distinct feel.

Planning documents also show that the community will include a multimodal transportation hub on the south end of the property that will include vehicles on demand, ridesharing, and a charge station.

20 acres of open space will also surround the buildings, providing opportunities to bike, walk and enjoy fresh air.

Several Horizon West residents showed up to oppose the size of the development.

A total of 54 people split on the project showed up to public comment.

Read: Horizon West to meet with Disney to discuss affordable complex

Youre going to be dying in traffic and I just want to paint that picture as someone who actually lives here, said District 1 resident Jerry Moser.

Other residents pointed to how the project would add 404 students to area schools, which some feel is too much.

Though the developers pointed out that Orange County Public Schools has determined that capacity will be available for the proposed project. Relief schools are in the pipeline before the first project units come online in 2026.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
A view from the Warner Valley in the newly established Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary  the largest such sanctuary in the world.

As the glow of artificial light has spread across the world, the number of places dark enough to see a sky rich with stars has shrunk.

In North America and across Oregon, only a small percentage of the population can look up at night and see the Milky Way without the glare of light pollution.

But there are places with a night sky almost perfectly dark  where the tapestry of stars is so rich its almost disorienting. Indeed, one of the largest such places is located just a few hours from Salem and Eugene at the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Officially certified by DarkSky International earlier this month, the 2.5 million acres in Lake County, east of Klamath Falls and just outside Lakeview, became the largest dark sky sanctuary in the world.

The lack of population centers, combined with a commitment to using good light, has helped the area achieve a pristine darkness officials hope will spark a type of low-impact tourism centered on enjoying the sky without major development.

A map showing light pollution from Oregon's major cities and the location of the newly-established Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary.

The Oregon Outback is rich with outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking and bird-watching, along with fishing and hunting, with small cabins, lodges and hot spring resorts to spend the night. Its a place to explore the Summer Lake or Hart Mountain wildlife refuges by day and take a dazzling star walk at night.

Explore Oregon Podcast: Hot springs, desert hiking and majestic wildlife at Hart Mountain

In the latest episode of the Explore Oregon Podcast, executive director of Travel Southern Oregon Bob Hackett explained what makes a sky truly dark, how to explore the Oregon Outback and what tourism officials are hoping for with the designation.

Answers have been shortened and edited for clarity. Listen to the entire episode at bit.ly/49cnU22

Zach Urness: What makes a night sky a dark sky? Even in the city, its still dark at night and we can usually see a few stars. So what distinguishes a dark sky sanctuary from what we might see in the Willamette or Rogue valley?

Bob Hackett: To become the dark sky sanctuary, you cant just say youre dark, you need to prove you're dark. To do that, you use sky quality meters that can actually measure luminescence in the sky. The unit they use is magnitudes per square arcsecond. In those units, 22 is a perfectly dark sky. You can be a dark sky sanctuary if your readings are 21.75 or higher. In the sanctuary, Summer Lake and Hart Mountain, the readings are all 21.77 to 21.8. By contrast, there's a meter in southeast Portland coming in at about 18.75, which is classified as a bright suburban sky. I live in Talent in the Rogue Valley and at my house it reads about 19.7, which is categorized as brighter rural sky, because Medford and White City pump out a lot of light even though theyre 10 miles away. So that gives you the scope of how darkness is measured.

Urness: Can you just describe what a sanctuary dark sky looks like  when youre out there  compared to a more urban sky. Does the difference just hit you in the face?

Hackett: It hits me in the face because it's like, Holy smokes, there's a lot going on up there! It's harder to actually pick out constellations you're familiar with at first because the number of stars is so overwhelming. You get an actual texture to the sky, the coloring of the sky. You get this sort of textured color of the astral dust that's in the Milky Way. And so it's really surprising, is the way I can describe it.

Views of the night sky in the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Urness: When did this get on your radar? When did we start thinking about dark skies as a tourism driver or something to strive for?

Hackett: Well, you can look at light maps of the United States from 1950. And yes, there's light pollution east of the Mississippi, but much less so west of the Mississippi. Now when you look at the 2025 projections, you see just an exponential growth of light pollution. Most of that has happened since 1980s and '90s, because light technology has never been cheaper or easier to light it up. The (scale for darkness) wasn't defined until 2001. I think the collective scientific response to light pollution and how to measure it is very recent phenomenon.

Urness: What's the benefit of having this dark sky sanctuary? Why do it?

Hackett: From a tourism perspective, it puts Oregon on the map in a big way in the dark sky space. We weren't there, and now we are. The benefit is to the gateway communities, the Summer Lakes, the Paisleys, the Lakeviews  that is where the economic benefit is going to happen for lodging.

The Colorado Plateau did economic impact studies on night sky tourism, and for people who are doing night sky tourism, they found they spend three times as much in a community as people not doing it. And it's pretty easy to figure out why  they spend the night, which means they have dinner, which means they have breakfast. This just gives people one more reason to stay just that extra day or two in the region.

Views of the night sky in the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Urness: Does Oregon now have bragging rights? This becomes the largest in the world. Is that something we can hang our hat on?

Hackett: Yeah, I mean, it's the largest in the world, and that means something. Sanctuaries are designed to be protecting pristine areas of night sky. And so yeah, I think it's a big deal.

I think if you have groups coming in from Japan, coming in from China, coming in from Germany and England, places that really have a lot of lights, this night sky experience is going to be one of the more memorable parts of their trip. And our task in the tourism world is to help find ways to make that experience available and easy and rewarding for communities that choose to maybe host some more international visitors or people from urban areas.

Urness: Let's talk a little bit about the area in particular. We've kind of mentioned it, but if you live in Portland or Salem, you haven't been to the Oregon Outback, describe it a little bit. What are you seeing? What are you smelling? What defines this area?

Hackett: When you head out to Lake and Harney counties, you are in the American West, you're in cowboy country, in sagebrush country, in the Great Basin. You're not in the Pacific Northwest anymore. It's a dramatic, vast landscape. It has some of the steepest vertical geologic escarpments in the country. There's times when I'm driving out there  and I spent some time in East Africa  and sometimes it feels like you're in the Rift Valley. It feels like you're on safari sometimes. There are pronghorn out there. It's a whole different fauna. It has inland lakes that are part of the inland Pacific Flyway and have just vast amounts of waterfowl.

Urness: Let's talk about traveling out into this area and just some of the interesting things to do out there. If you were going to recommend a trip into the dark sky sanctuary, what would you suggest?

Hackett: Well, the way I would do it, I would break it down to what are your other interests, your daytime interests? So if you are a mountain biker, you've got the Oregon Timber Trail that is starting right in Lakeview. It runs right through the crest of the Warner Mountains through the sanctuary. You can have that experience completely as a mountain biker and (see the dark sky) completely from more campsites than you know what to do with. Alright, so if you're a birder, you would definitely want to get out to Summer Lake wildlife refuge. Theres camping, lodging or Summer Lake Hot Springs, which is a wonderful place with cabins and camping.

There are great hiking trails and walking areas as well. If you want to stay in town, you can stay at the Best Western in Lakeview and just drive a short distance and youre in the sanctuary.

Southeastern Oregon's Summer Lake, nestled below the Winter Rim, is packed full of birds, but also showcases a glorious night sky.

Urness: Theres also great hiking and backpacking out there on the Oregon Desert Trail and Hart Mountain. So your advice would be to pick something that you like already and then just take the time to step out at night?

Hackett: Right. And maybe you like to fly-fish, and so you're in Paisley at the Chewaucan River, and then you're having dinner at the Paisley saloon home to the oldest bar in Oregon, and at night, the sky is right there above. And then there are people who are night sky enthusiasts, they go with their cameras and they go with their telescopes, and there's just no shortage of places as to pull up and have that experience at night.

Urness: I'm guessing the people that live in the new sanctuary had to buy into that. So are they committing to a specific course of action? Are there limits on developments that include lighting?

Hackett: In the sanctuary, 85% of the land is publicly owned and 15% is private property. On public land, the agencies have 10 years to get every light on public property 100% dark sky compliant. I think right now we're at about 75%.

Private landowners are exempt from the light management plan. There is outreach and education to help keep the outback sanctuary dark. But we're not telling private properties owners what to do. It's really about providing resources and education.

Urness: What does dark light compliant mean? Does that mean turning off all the lights at night?

Hackett: No, it means there are dark sky, fully shielded lights that are warm amber color or even more orange. There's timers or motion detectors so lights dont need to be on all the time. It's not a no light movement, it's a good light movement.

Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 15 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast. Urness is the author of Best Hikes with Kids: Oregon and Hiking Southern Oregon. He can be reached at zurness@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6801. Find him on Twitter at @ZachsORoutdoors.

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: How to visit the world's largest dark sky sanctuary in Oregon
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Abortion access returns to the high court for the first time since the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This time, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments over the abortion pill.

As justices weigh whether to reverse the Food and Drug Administrations expanded access to the drug, local lawmakers are responding and expounding on what the results may mean for patients.

10 people treated at hospital after apartment fire in Portlands West Slope

In Oregon and Washington state, access to mifepristone remains intact  for now  as both governors secured a three-year supply last year. But what happens when that runs out?

On Tuesday, lawmakers and advocates were clear: while the case could impact access to the drug, medical abortion is and will be available in the future  despite any ruling.

Nearly two years after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the future of abortion access is once again before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Nearly 33K Oregonians entered for chance to win OLCCs rare liquor lottery

This is a deliberate attack on the autonomy of patients to make their own decisions with their healthcare providers and with their families, said U.S. Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.). At the core of the case is the abortion and miscarriage management pill mifepristone  often taken with another drug to end early pregnancy.

Bonamici was joined by U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), who hosted the first congressional hearing on the safety of mifepristone in 1990. He echoed Bonamicis call to not go backward.

We are never going to let politics take precedence over good science, Wyden said.

Bridge safety in Oregon top of mind following Baltimore disaster

While the drug was approved by the FDA more than 20 years ago, on Tuesday, the high court heard arguments on whether the agency acted lawfully when it took steps in 2016 and 2021 to increase access, like allowing mail delivery and expanding the timeframe in which the drug can be taken during pregnancy.

We must codify Roe vs. Wade and beyond that, get rid of the Hyde Amendment and the Comstock Laws as was mentioned, to open up equitable access to abortion care  because abortion care is health care, Bonamici said.

The anti-abortion advocates who filed the case argue the FDA overlooked safety problems when it made mifepristone easier to get. However, local lawmakers, abortion providers, and advocates for reproductive healthcare argued the case is politically motivated and could restrict access to safe and essential healthcare even in states like Oregon with some of the strongest protections.

Remarkable Woman: Gloria Fluker on Tomorrows Journey

Today, we heard oral arguments in a case before the Supreme Court that was designed specifically to target access to a safe, effective method of medication abortion that is used in more than half of the abortions in the United States, said Samantha Gladu, executive director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Oregon.

This is far from over, but the Supreme Court could make a decision as early as June.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Responding for the first time to explosive elder-abuse allegations against her, Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill claims in new court filings that those seeking to dislodge Hills power over an elderly constituent are the ones at risk of exploiting the woman, not Hill herself.

Hill is asking to have the court injunction levied against her last week dissolved, arguing that the 96-year-old womans vulnerable state leaves her in no position to change who has her power of attorney. Adriane Alexander, a Tampa woman, displaced Hill and gained power of attorney over the woman last month.

In court papers that led to the injunction and as part of a separate state investigation, Hill is accused of manipulating the woman, whom the Sentinel isnt naming, by securing power of attorney less than two months after they met in early 2021. The papers say Hill drained the womans bank account of more than $100,000, has lived along with her son and his girlfriend in a house owned by the woman, and used the womans resources to help buy a home of her own. Hill allegedly spent the womans money on home improvements, vacations, a facelift, dental surgery and IV vitamin treatments.

Alexander also alleges Hill took advantage of the womans mental incapacity. Ironically, Hill makes a similar accusation in her response, saying the woman lacks the capacity to enter into any agreements or contracts due to incapacity. Hill does not, however, make any direct response to the allegations about her exploitation of the womans financial resources.

Her ability to perform activities of daily living or to provide her own care or protection is impaired, Hills filing reads. This impairment is due to a mental and long-term physical disability or dysfunction, and other infirmities of aging.

Hills filing cast doubt on Alexanders relationship with the elderly woman, citing information and belief. It claims Alexander has no relationship with the woman, and isnt knowledgeable about her needs. However, documents filed by Alexander and the elderly woman say Alexander has known the woman for her entire life, as a friend and the daughter of the womans college classmate.

An attorney representing Alexander and the elderly woman declined to comment.

Hill, who first took office in 2013, hasnt been charged criminally in the matter. However, shes been under investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for more than a year.

A hearing over the injunction was initially scheduled for Wednesday, but has been rescheduled for April 5, records show.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, in Orlando for a bill signing Wednesday, said he is aware of the allegations against Hill, but said hed wait until a decision was made on whether to charge her before taking any action.

It only comes under my purview if a municipal elected official is indicted by a grand jury, then I would suspend, DeSantis told reporters. If theres not an indictment, my power of suspension doesnt reach.

Its unclear if a grand jury is reviewing the allegations against Hill. The state attorneys office didnt respond to a question nor did an attorney for Hill.

A spokesperson for FDLE would only say its investigation was ongoing.

In granting the injunction, Circuit Judge Heather Higbee ordered Hill to leave the womans home and to have no contact with the woman.

Higbee wrote that the injunction was necessary to the womans safety because there was an immediate and present danger of exploitation, and a likelihood of irreparable harm.

In the FDLE affidavit dated March 7, the woman told investigators she recalled signing some sort of document but did not understand it and would have never agreed to allow Hill to be a power of attorney over her.

rygillespie@orlandosentinel.com
A little more than three years after Officer Kevin Valencias passing, Meghan Valencia smiled tearfully as she watched Orlando police Chief Eric Smith tug at a black sheet covering a marker of her late husbands legacy.

Officer Kevin Valencia Memorial Highway, a stretch of South Kirkman Road between Vineland and Conroy roads, was unveiled Wednesday in honor of the Orlando police officer, who died in 2021 after succumbing to a gunshot to the head he suffered years earlier. A copy of the sign was gifted to Meghan, who was joined by their two children and dozens of loved ones along with Valencias fellow officers, including squad mates who worked directly with him.

He was a hero and this sign reminds us all about Officer Valencias bravery and sacrifice, Mayor Buddy Dyer said. He was there when our community needed him most.

Valencia, 29, started with the Orlando Police Department in 2016, garnering numerous awards during that time including two for lifesaving.

In June 2018, he responded to a domestic violence call at an apartment complex where he was shot in the head. The shooting sparked a 21-hour standoff between officers and Gary Wayne Lindsey Jr., who killed four children  between the ages 1 of 11  before killing himself.

Initially, there was hope Valencia would pull through. He was reportedly responsive for a time  capable of squeezing a hand and giving a thumbs up while in a coma. He officially retired in 2020, with Meghan Valencia accepting a purple heart from OPD on his behalf as he showed signs of improvement.

In March 2021, then-Chief Orlando Rolon announced Valencias passing about a month before his 30th birthday.

I hope today serves as a reminder of our communitys commitment to always remembering Kevins sacrifice to ensure the safety of others, Smith said Wednesday. To Kevins squad and all members of our law enforcement community  know that we all stand behind you. Stay vigilant, stay safe and look out for one another.

Valencia was the same man in uniform as he was out of it, Meghan Valencia said. He was compassionate and generous to those around him. As a father, he was willing to share the load of parenting his boys with Meghan  the pair being childhood sweethearts since they were 12.

She described him as charming and funny.

We called each other Beavis and Butt-Head, Meghan recalled with a laugh, referring to the iconic MTV cartoon duo. I hope thats the person that everybody remembers. He was fun and loving and silly and charismatic and just somebody that everybody loved.

The sign commemorating Valencia was the result of a bill passed in the 2023 legislative session renaming the road proposed by state Sen. Geraldine Thompson, D-Orlando, and state Reps. Bruce Antone and Rita Harris, both Orlando Democrats.

Harris, who spoke at the unveiling ceremony, said she hopes the designation ensures anyone who drives or walks by remembers his name.

He loved to serve. He loved to protect, and thats what he did, she said. He went into danger not knowing if he would come out, because he knew that he wanted to help people.

As widow of a police officer, Meghan Valencia said shes struggled to move forward, but not without the support of fellow officers and leaders in the department. Smith, who spoke with reporters after the ceremony, said the agency will continue to support the family.

For a police officer, we know every day could be our last, and its what you do after tragedy happens, he said of maintaining morale after Valencias death. My biggest thing is to keep Meghan and the boys a part of our family.
NEW ORLEANS (WGNO)  The New Orleans Police Department is investigating a double shooting in the St. Roch neighborhood that left one man dead and another wounded.

According to NOPD officers, around 1:04 p.m., they received a call of a shooting in the 2000 block of Painters Street.

LSP: Harvey man dead after Iberville Parish car crash

Officers said when they arrived, one man was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead on the scene. A second man, also wounded by gunfire, was taken to a hospital by EMS.

An update on the second victims condition was not released.

The Orleans Parish Coroners Office will release the deceased victims name after an autopsy is done and the family is notified.

Anyone with information about the shooting can call NOPD Homicide Section detectives at 504-658-5300, Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP.

Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO.
The collapse of Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday after a collision with a massive container ship could have been mitigated with simple fenders that have been standard issue on new bridges since the 1990s.

Today these fenders are standard to be installed around supporting beams for new bridges to help blunt potential impact from cargo ships. They help combat the ever-increasing size of ships just like the thousand-foot-long Dali, which sent the bridge into the Patapsco River.

Had [the Key Bridge] been designed for the criteria that were developed after the 1990s, I think it would have survived this event, said Sherif El-Tawil, professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Michigan.



The Maryland Department of Transportation did not respond to multiple requests for comment about its bridge design standards, or whether the bridge was ever considered for fender retrofits.

In the 1970s, when the Key Bridge was designed, ships were dramatically smaller and engineers would not have foreseen the behemoth container ships of today. The largest ship in the world at that time was about a quarter of the size of the Dali, which is the length of a skyscraper. The average ship in 2024 is six times bigger than those of the late 1970s.

Even if fenders couldnt completely stop the ship, they could have mitigated the scale of the disaster, said Sameh Badie, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at George Washington University.

If we have a fender around the pier or a man-made island  which is going to at least reduce the impact force on the pier, even if the ship reaches the pier  it's going to be a much better situation compared to what we have seen, Badie said.

In 1977, when the Key Bridge in Baltimore opened, fenders existed, but were not yet standard. But three years later, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge across the Tampa Bay collapsed after a freighter hit a support pier during a sudden storm, killing 35 people.

Florida attorney Steve Yerrid of the Yerrid Law Firm successfully defended the captain of that freighter.

If you look at the Baltimore bridge pictures, you'll see the piers are unprotected, Yerrid said in an interview. That occurred in 1980, our horrific accident. So what I'm saying is, they didn't learn. And for 44 years  I'm not saying they should have rebuilt their whole bridge, but they certainly should have taken safety measures.

The bridge collapse in Florida was a wake-up call for the entire maritime industry, Yerrid said.



And in 1994, the group that sets the standards for road and bridge construction, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, issued new regulations requiring devices like fenders wherever bridges are not designed to resist vessel collision forces.

The Key Bridge, built years before the new AASHTO guidelines, did not benefit from that type of analysis, said Sherif El-Tawil, the civil engineering professor.

Some states have begun to retrofit old bridges with these fenders.

The Delaware River and Bay Authority, for instance, is currently spending $95 million to install 80-foot diameter steel structures around each of the bridges two tower structures, augmenting existing protective measures..

They're not inconsequential, said Public Information Officer James Salmon of the Delaware River and Bay Authority. They're a mammoth project.

Its unclear whether the Maryland Department of Transportation ever considered installing them for the Key Bridge. MDOT did not answer requests for comment for this article.

Catherine Sheridan, bridges and tunnels president for New Yorks Metropolitan Transportation Authority, said in a statement that its bridges are equipped with a wide range of safety technology, including ship collision protections.

She noted that the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, where the largest ship traffic passes, is a special case in that it has a robust rip rap system (rock island around the tower bases) which would cause a ship to run aground before it could do significant damage to the bridge.

AASHTO Executive Director Jim Tymon said hes skeptical that better protection could have prevented Tuesdays tragedy, noting the impact of the Dali was like an aircraft carrier hitting that bridge.

We've got to see what the NTSB recommends before we jump to conclusions on what could have happened or what should have happened, Tymon said. Because it's possible they come back and say, even with a different approach for protecting those bridge piers, they likely still would have sustained a strike and that bridge still would have come down.
HARARE, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe plans to grow 120,000 hectares of wheat during the 2024 winter crop production season, up from 90,912 hectares in 2023, a cabinet minister said on Tuesday.

The government has also approved an incentive planning price of 440 U.S. dollars per ton of wheat, and a planning price of 360 dollars per ton for maize and sorghum, Jenfan Muswere, the minister of information, publicity and broadcasting services, told the press.

The plan to enhance winter wheat output comes in the midst of an El Nino-induced drought that has devastated Zimbabwe and certain southern African countries, lowering yield projections in those areas. 
Dangerous levels of E.coli have been found in the Thames, prompting a warning to rowers - Joe Giddens/PA

The traditional Boat Race celebration of the winning cox being thrown in the river might be consigned to history after testing revealed E.coli at dangerous levels in the Thames.

Levels of E. coli were found to be up to 10 times higher than what the Environment Agency considers acceptable for the worst bathing waters graded poor on a stretch of the river that will be used for this Saturdays event.

The Oxford and Cambridge crews have been warned not to enter the water and to wash themselves down at the finish line.

Guidance issued suggests rowers cover cuts, grazes and blisters with waterproof dressings and take care not to swallow any river water to avoid getting ill.

Last year, British Rowing, the sports national governing body, said it had received an increased number of reports of illnesses among rowers.

Most types of E.coli are harmless or cause relatively brief diarrhoea.

But a few strains, such as E.coli O157:H7, can cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhoea and vomiting.

River Action, a charity which carried out the tests alongside Fulham Reach Boat Club, said testing locations suggest that the source of pollution was Thames Water sewage discharges.

The water company discharged sewage into the Greater London area of the River Thames for 1,914 hours between the start of 2024 and March 26.

The Oxford and Cambridge men's and women's rowing teams at a photo call at Battersea Power Station ahead of their races - Jonathan Brady/PA

Data out on Wednesday are expected to show that sewage spills hit an all-time high over the last year, amid increased monitoring and wet weather.

The figures are likely to put fresh pressure on water companies and the Government to tackle the regular release of sewage, which is only permitted to happen in exceptional circumstances to stop it from backing up into peoples homes.

Last years data showed sewage was released into Englands waterways more than 300,000 times last year.

We are in a tragic situation when elite athletes are issued with health guidance ahead of a historic race on the capitals river, James Wallace, the chief executive of River Action, said.

For the safety of river users everywhere, rowers, communities and conservationists are uniting to ask the Government to enforce the law and to prosecute polluters.

The new guidance has been issued to rowing clubs across the country and included in briefing packs for Boat Race athletes.

Taking action to improve the health of rivers is a key focus for us and we want to lead the way with our transparent approach to data, A Thames Water spokesman said.

We have experienced higher than average long-term rainfall across London and the Thames Valley with groundwater levels exceptionally high for the time of the year.

The overflows are designed to operate automatically when the sewer network is about to be overwhelmed which then releases diluted wastewater into rivers, rather than letting it back up into peoples homes.

We are working hard to make these discharges unnecessary and have published plans to upgrade over 250 of our sites, including a 100 million upgrade of our Mogden sewage treatment works in south-west London to treat the high volumes of incoming sewage and reduce the need for overflows during wet weather.

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 majority of American parents want kids to have access to their phones at school, a new survey finds. In addition, most parents think cellphones have a positive effect on their kids' lives.

Debates over teens and smartphones often contain the (assumed or explicit) premise that parents want their kids to stop living what author and social psychologist Jonathan Haidt calls a "phone-based childhood." Popular wisdom today says parents think phones are negatively impacting their childrens' lives and want kids to have less access to phones but feel powerless to change the situationa premise baked into Haidt's new book, The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness (read my review here).

But a survey conducted earlier this month by the National Parents Union challenges this narrative.

Phonesthe Perfect Vehicle for Helicopter Parenting

In The Anxious Generation, Haidt looks at the rise of various problems among young people and pinpoints two interlocking culprits: the ascendancy of a "phone-based childhood" and the decline of a "play-based childhood." Many folks see this as a simple one-way flow: phones came along and simply wiped out time or motivation for other pursuits. Haidt suggests a somewhat different sequence of events. As parents began to fear everything in the offline world (and instill this fear into their children), individual families and American society more broadly started denying children independence, autonomy, and unstructured free time. "Screen time" started to fill a void that parents, politicians, police, and our culture as a whole had already created.

The new National Parents Union survey perfectly illustrates the way fear-based parenting is driving phone-based childhoods.

In the surveyconducted in February among 1,506 parents of public school students grades K-1266 percent of parents said their kids have a cell phone and most of these kids (79 percent) take their phones to school. Asked why parents' wanted this, the most common answers were so that kids could "use their phone if there is an emergency" (79 percent agreed) and so parents could get in touch with their children "or find out where they are when needed" (71 percent). Forty percent said it was important for communicating with kids "about their mental health or other needs during the day."

In other words, a lot of parents want their kids to have phones at school because these parents are anxious, afraid, and/or overzealously policing their progeny's whereabouts and feelings.

Hat tip to Bonnie Kristian for first identifying this paradox. "It is increasingly fashionable to talk about the risk phones pose to American kids, especially teenage girls," writes Kristian on Substack:

The dysfunction of the phone-based childhood has become impossible to ignore, thanks in no small part to Haidt's own work. We're all saying it: Make the kids put down their phones at dinner! Ban phones in school! Kick teenagers off social media or confine them to flip phones or take the phones away altogether! But then there's the second level: When push comes to shove, whatever ideals they may spout about rejecting the phone-based childhood, average American parents want their middle and high schoolers to have phones, preferably smartphones with location tracking kept on their persons at all times.

Hey, Teachers, Leave Those Phones Alone

It seems parents are as attached to their kids having phones as their kids are. In light of this, it's unsurprising that many parents frown on policies that totally deny kids access to phones at school (even though the popular/political narrative around kids and phones suggests this is what parents want).

Fifty-six percent of the people surveyed by the National Parents Union said "students should sometimes be allowed to use their cell phones" in school, while just 32 percent said "students should be banned from using their cell phones, unless they have a medical condition or disability for which they need to use a cell phone."

Even among the group who said most students should be banned from using phones, only 30 percent wanted this ban to apply broadly (i.e., outside of class). Most said phones should be banned during academic instruction but allowed at other times, such as during lunch or recess or during periods between classes.

In keeping with this, relatively few of the parents surveyed supported school policies that keep kids' entirely away from their phones during the day.

Fifteen percent said schools should "require students to place their cell phones in a central location in their classroom, such as a cubby or holder, but don't lock them up" and 14 percent said they should "require students to place their cell phones in a locked cabinet or cell phone lockers in their classroom." Another 8 percent said schools should "lock up students' cell phones in secure pouches or containers that they can carry with them but that prevent them from using their phone."

The most popular answershared by 59 percent of the parents surveyedwas that schools should "allow students to keep their phones in their backpack or bag (not locked

up) as long as they don't take them out and keep them on silent."

Reassuringly, very few people (5 percent) think the federal government should make decisions about school phone policies and only 10 percent say it should be a state-level government decision.

Most parents think phone policies should be made at the school district level (29 percent), the school level (28 percent), or at the classroom level (18 percent).

The Upsides of Screen Time



Some of the data in this survey fits popular narratives about kids and phones, like the ideas that they're starting young and spending a lot of time on them.

Among parents who allowed their children to have cellphones, the most popular ages to have given phones to them was between 10 and 13 years old. (The survey does not say what type of phones were given, so it's possible many kids received dumb phones to start.) Only 13 percent of parents waited until a kid was age 14 or older.

Among those whose kids had cell phones, only 18 percent estimated that their child spends less than 2 hours per day on it. Some 28 percent estimated that their kid spends between 2 and 3 hours per day on their phones, with 29 percent suggesting their kid uses it for 4 or 5 hours per day, 12 percent saying 6 or 7 hours per day, and 9 percent saying their kids are on phones for upwards of 8 hours per day.

And yet, most parents seem pretty unalarmed by this phone usage. Just 9 percent said phones had a mostly or entirely negative effect on their kids.

Nearly half46 percentsaid the phone had a mostly or entirely positive effect on their child, while 42 percent said the effect was "about equally positive and negative."

This stands out as at odds with what we commonly hear in the media and from legislators about how parents view kids' phone use. But it's in keeping with what many kids themselves say. In a 2022 survey of American 13- to 17-year-olds, conducted Pew Research Center, kids identified all sorts of plus sides to social media (which is, of course, one of the main things that kids use phones for). And a majority59 percentsaid social media is neither a negative nor a positive in their lives, while 32 percent said it's mostly positive and just 9 percent said it's mostly negative.

It's also in keeping with some earlier research on phone adoption among kids. For instance, a 2022 study from Stanford Medicine researchers followed 250 tweens and teens for five years during which most got a first cellphone, tracking study participants' well-being during this transition. The kids were 7 to 11 years old when the study started and 11 to 15 years old when it ended. The researchers "found that whether or not the children in the study had a mobile phone, and when they had their first mobile phone, did not seem to have meaningful links to their well-being and adjustment outcomes," according to lead author Xiaoran Sun.

More Sex & Tech

 Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a law restricting teen use of social media platforms. Under the new law, 14- and 15-year-olds can old start social media accounts with their parents' permission. "This law puts all users' privacy at risk by mandating age verification," said Competitive Enterprise Institute's director of the Center for Technology & Innovation, Jessica Melugin. It also "ignores parents' rightful role in deciding what is and is not appropriate for their child, and may sacrifice too much of the free flow of speech to be constitutional. It's political click bait, but it's not good public policy."

 California lawmakers are considering a bill that would require large online platforms to verify the identities of "influential" users. Influential here is defined to include basically any user that's been at it for a while (that is, if content they've shared "has been seen by more than 25,000 users over the lifetime of the accounts that they control or administer").

 Mother Jones has an interesting interview with Lynn Paltrow, founder of the National Advocates for Pregnant Women (now called Pregnancy Justice). "For much of the past 50 years, the mainstream pro-choice groups were focused almost exclusively on the right to abortion," said Paltrow, who believes this was a mistake. "There was no campaign to explain abortion as necessary to the full equality and citizenshipthe personhoodof women in this country. They were defending abortion as opposed to the people who sometimes need abortions but always need to be treated as full constitutional persons under the law, whatever the outcome of their pregnancies."

Today's Image

Japantown, San Francisco | Yesterday (ENB/Reason)

The post Parents Don't Want Schools to Confiscate Kids' Phones appeared first on Reason.com.
Paris Hilton first became a household name for her family's hotel empire before turning into a reality star and later a DJ  but for the past year she has been focused on being a mom.

The socialite and her husband, Carter Reum, share two children together: 1-year-old son Phoenix and daughter London, whom the proud parents welcomed in November 2023.

Less than a week after announcing the arrival of her baby girl, she spoke about embracing her "mom era" during an appearance on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna.

"She is just a little angel and my life just feels so complete with my little baby boy and my baby girl," she gushed on Nov. 27, 2023.

Hilton said she and her husband are "just over the moon" about their family of four.

"Im loving my mom era," she added.

The mom of two explained that motherhood has brought her a sense of peace.

She shared, "I just feel so at peace, just so happy (and) so grateful for my husband and this beautiful family and life that were building together and I couldnt imagine anything else."

Hilton has also opened up about being a mom on her Peacock reality series, "Paris in Love," while poking fun at the "whimsical character" she has created for herself over the years.

In one December 2023 episode of the show, she claimed she didn't personally change her son's diaper until a month after he was born. She later clarified on X that her comment was part of a bit.

Hey there, it's Paris. Just wanted to clear the air about something. On my show, #ParisInLove, I joked about changing a diaper for the first time, which, let's be honest, was just me having a bit of fun - as you can see I changed his diaper the night I brought him home But, in pic.twitter.com/IUvcEvOCyr  ParisHilton (@ParisHilton) December 13, 2023

"On my show, #ParisInLove, I joked about changing a diaper for the first time, which, lets be honest, was just me having a bit of fun  as you can see I changed his diaper the night I brought him home," she wrote, in part. "But, in all seriousness, when it comes to being a mom, Im fully involved and loving every moment of it."

She said it was a silly comment that shouldn't have been taken seriously.

"Sometimes, I play into the whimsical character I portrayed on #TheSimpleLife," she continued. "Its a role thats hard to shake off completely. While I love a good laugh, I also believe in being real and responsible, especially as a parent."

Read on to learn what else Hilton has said about raising two toddlers, below.

Phoenix Barron Hilton Reum

No one knew that Hilton and Reum were expecting their first child together, not even their loved ones.

I just feel like my life has been so public and I just wanted something for me, Hilton told TODAY with Hoda & Jenna in March 2023. I didnt want the media and people online just speaking about my son even before he was here on this earth.

Privacy was so important, Hilton told Harper's Bazaar, that when her surrogate was in labor, the reality star checked into the hospital under a different name and in disguise.

In January 2023, Hilton shared the first photo of her son, showing only his little hand curled around her thumb.

You are already loved beyond words, she wrote.

In February 2023, Hilton discussed her son's "unique" name on her This is Paris podcast.

"I love that its not only a city but also has other meanings that are just beautiful," she said. "I really believe that names have power and we wanted a name for our baby boy that was uniquely remarkable."

"It stands for hope, rebirth and transformation, said Hilton.

Phoenix's middle name Barron is for her late grandfather who died in 2019.

In July 2023, Hilton celebrated Phoenix's half-birthday by sharing Instagram photos.

"This Barbie is a Mom," she wrote on the slideshow. "My baby boy Phoenix is 6 months old today. He is my world and makes my life feel so complete. Cant wait for all the magical memories we will create together! Mommy loves you so much angel baby."

Paris Hilton threw an epic party with her celebrity friends to celebrate son Phoenixs first birthday.

The 42-year-old reality star and entrepreneur shared photos and videos from Phoenixs birthday bash on her Instagram story Jan. 27.

Before the festivities began, the mom of two uploaded a video of a blue and orange balloon display being set up in a backyard as I Just Cant Wait to Be King from The Lion King blasted in the background.

Paris Hilton celebrates son Phoenix's first birthday with a

But, it seems another classic Disney animation, The Little Mermaid, mightve inspired the theme for Phoenixs party. In the next clip, she gave a closer look at the birthday decorations, which included a massive archway with Phoenix on it, fish balloons and clear balloons that said #slivingmom.

Beneath the post, she revealed that the specific theme of sons party was Sliving Under the Sea.

The birthday boy finally made an appearance in the following story. The proud mom, who wore a star tiara, matching necklace, a white Chanel purse and a blue ballgown fit for Cinderella, held her son as she gushed about him turning 1 years old. Phoenix looked adorable in a pageboy hat, white collared Fendi shirt, khaki pants and white sneakers. The mother and son duo also sported matching white sunglasses.

Im so excited. Ive thrown amazing birthday parties my whole life, so to now be able to do this for my little boy is just such a special memory, Hilton explained in the video.

Are you ready for your birthday? she asked the toddler. Look this is all for you, she said as she carried him outside to the party.

There were quite a few stars in attendance to wish Hiltons son a happy birthday.

Kat Von D and her 5-year-old son, Leafar, made sure to greet the birthday boy. The tattoo artist and television personality later posted a photo on her Instagram story of her and Leafar snapping a picture with Hilton and Phoenix. Von D wished him a happy birthday in the caption.

Next up was Kelly Osbourne who attended the celebration with 1-year-old son Sidney.

We love a theme, Osbourne complimented Hilton before she picked Sidney up.

Fellow first-time mom Rumer Willis also stopped by with her daughter Louetta, who was born in April 2023.

Hilton said Willis baby girl was so sweet in the clip.

The Paris in Love star later posed for photos with Phoenix in front of a grand archway.

I cant believe hes 1 already! someone behind the camera said.

I know, Hilton replied. Its the best.

After their mini photoshoot, Hilton and Phoenix visited the petting zoo in another section of the backyard where there were chickens, ducks, rabbits and goats in an enclosure. Hilton held one of the goats and showed it to her son, but the 1-year-old seemed a little scared and cried.

Lance Bass and his 2-year-old twins, Violet and Alexander, decided to check out the petting zoo, too. The N Sync member came over and gave Hilton a kiss on the cheek before feeding and petting some of the animals.

Hilton also hired a unicorn to come surprise the children.

Sister-in-law Tessa Hilton, who recently announced she was expecting her third child with Barron Hilton, and her daughter Milou were in attendance along with Chanel West Coast and her daughter Bowie who were also invited guests.

London

In an Instagram post, Hilton announced the arrival of her daughter London on Nov. 23, 2023.

"Thankful for my baby girl," Hilton wrote on an Instagram photo of a baby's outfit branded with "London" and a pair of pink sunglasses, alongside a stuffed bunny.

While Hilton's extended family knew that baby London was on her way, they didn't know her due date. Hilton introduced them to her daughter on Thanksgiving Day.

Hilton always loved the name London for her future children.

I knew when I was a little girl that I always wanted to have a daughter one day named London because London is one of my favorite cities in the world, she said during the February 2023 This Is Paris podcast.

Phoenix is already quite taken with his little sister London, Hilton told TODAY with Hoda & Jenna on Nov. 27.

Hes just so gentle and sweet and hell put his hand out and rub her arm or her face, said Hilton.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
The parliament's National Security and Defense Committee rejected the amendment on demobilization after 36 months of service without the approval of the Headquarters of Supreme Commander-in-Chief in the new mobilization bill, lawmaker Oleksii Honcharenko said on March 27.

Ukraine's government hopes to update the legal framework around conscription to ramp up mobilization efforts in 2024. The parliament is now considering a new draft of the mobilization law after its initial, contentious version was withdrawn.

The parliament supported the updated bill in the first reading on Feb. 7, but lawmakers are still working on the amendments, including the demobilization process. More than 4,000 amendments to the bill have been submitted since its passing in the first reading.

Honcharenko, who submitted the amendment, said that the parliamentary committee supported the idea of demobilization after 36 months of service but only if the president approved it.

"The idea of demobilization is being buried (in the parliament)," Honcharenko said on his Telegram channel.

The parliament's National Security and Defense Committee also considers the option of demobilization after 36 months if 18 of them were spent on the front line, according to the lawmaker.

Read also: Defense Ministry: Ukraine plans to open 27 new recruitment centers in first half of 2024

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Russian forces in occupied Crimea are constructing barriers at the entrance to Sevastopol Bay to prevent further Ukrainian strikes on the Black Sea fleet, the partisan group Atesh reported on March 27.

In recent months, Ukraine has intensified its attacks on Black Sea fleet targets in occupied Crimea, successfully targeting several ships and forcing Russian forces to redeploy to safer waters.

While the most recent strikes used missiles to hit three ships and a military communication center, the measures reported by Atesh appear to be an attempt to prevent Ukrainian sea drone attacks.

After the strikes of the Ukrainian Defense Forces with cruise missiles and naval drones on the Battleships Yamal and Azov, the command of the Russian Black Sea fleet blocks the passage of boats and puts up new barriers at the sea entrance to the bay, the group said in a post on Telegram.

Accompanying the post was a picture and short video showing cranes operating near a section of water in the bay.

The post ended with an appeal to residents of the occupied peninsula to continue to transmit information about the situation in the bay.

Ukraine struck two Russian Ropucha-class landing ships, "Yamal" and "Azov," in occupied Crimea in the late hours of March 23, Ukraine's Armed Forces confirmed on March 24.

On March 26, it reported the landing ship Konstantin Olshansky had been hit by a Neptune missile during the same attack.

Ukraines domestically-produced Magura V5 naval drones have scored several successes, most recently destroying a Black Sea fleet patrol ship, the Sergey Kotov.

The Strategic Communications Center of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (StratCom) recently reported that as of early February 2024, 33% of the fleets warships had been disabled, including 24 ships and one submarine.

Russia has taken a number of steps to address the continuing threat, including replacing the commander of the Russian Navy earlier this month.

Read also: Russias war effort may not be as formidable as it looks

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  One person is dead and another was airlifted to a local hospital after a rollover crash in San Pasqual Valley Tuesday night, authorities said.

According to the San Diego Police Department, a 25-year-old man was driving a gray 1999 Chevrolet Silverado eastbound on 18000 San Pasqual Valley Road around 11:20 p.m.

These San Diego stores are the luckiest for winning lottery tickets

The driver of the Silverado failed to maintain the curvature of the roadway, crossed over the double yellow painted lines, and went down a 50 foot embankment into a citrus orchard, SDPD explained.

A 47-year-old man, a passenger in the Silverado, was ejected during the rollover and pronounced dead at the scene, authorities said.

The driver was airlifted to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

SDPDs Traffic Division responded and will be handling the investigation into this fatal collision. Anyone with information related to the crash is encouraged to Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- A mainland spokesperson on Wednesday urged Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities to respect the mainstream public opinion on the island for peace and development, and remove restrictions that impede cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks in response to a media query concerning the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), a comprehensive economic pact between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan, that took effect over a decade ago.

Since implementation, the ECFA and its early harvest program have brought tangible benefits to businesses on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, and have been widely recognized, Chen noted.

However, due to well-known reasons, the already-signed follow-up service trade agreement did not come into effect, which was a major setback for Taiwan's economic and industrial development and the advancement of people's interests, Chen said.

What happened over the past decade has made more and more people and businesses in Taiwan realize that only when cross-Strait relations are sound can people and businesses in Taiwan benefit more, he said.

Responding to a media query regarding cross-Strait exchanges, Chen said that the DPP authorities have not lifted the ban on non-governmental exchanges from mainland to Taiwan, nor have they lifted the ban on Taiwan group tours to the mainland.

Noting that peace, development, exchanges and cooperation are the common aspiration of compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, Chen called on the DPP authorities to remove obstacles for cross-Strait exchanges as soon as possible. 
PayPal Ventures' latest investment is in an Indonesian startup that provides personal insurance products covering a variety of risks, including accidents, phone screen damage, and ticket cancellations to over 5 million customers.

Qoala has secured $47 million in a new round co-led by PayPal Ventures and MassMutual Ventures, the five-year-old startup said Wednesday. MUFG Innovation Partners, Omidyar Network, and existing backers Flourish Ventures, Eurazeo and AppWorks also participated in the Series C funding, which brings Qoala's total funding to more than $130 million since its inception.

Qoala, headquartered in Jakarta, is an insurtech platform that works with top local insurers and e-commerce firms to offer customers personalized and affordable products. It sells the insurance coverage -- ranging from cars, motorcycles, property, personal accidents, travel and health -- through its website and app as well as via offline engagements.

Despite being the fourth most populous country in the world, Indonesia has a relatively low insurance penetration rate. According to the Indonesian Financial Services Authority, the insurance penetration rate in Indonesia stands at below 4%, lower than the global average.

This low penetration can be attributed to several factors, including limited awareness about insurance products, low disposable income among a significant portion of the population, and a lack of trust in insurance companies. The Insurance Development Institute additionally says that the insurance industry in Indonesia is highly fragmented, with numerous small players, leading to increased competition and lower profit margins, something that poses risk to the sector's growth and penetration.

Additionally, half of Indonesia's population is aged 30 or below, something that Alexandros Bottenbruch, principal at PayPal Ventures, told TechCrunch creates a "favorable socio-demographic profile in the regions largest country, combined with rapidly accelerating digital adoption and low insurance penetration, [which makes] the market ripe with opportunity."

The startup simplifies the claims process through image uploads and uses machine learning to detect fraud, benefiting both customers and insurers by expanding access to convenient, cost-effective insurance solutions.

Qoala also relies on a network composed of over 60,000 people who it refers to as "agents" or marketers to sell insurance. "Rather than going direct to consumers, they have worked to leverage entrenched channels like the leading consumer-facing platforms and traditional offline brokers in Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand," Bottenbruch told TechCrunch. (PayPal Ventures is no stranger to Indonesia. It also backed Gojek in 2020.)

"By taking this approach, Qoala has successfully positioned itself as the embedded insurance solution of choice to more than 50 consumer-facing platforms and marketplaces, and the top insurance platform solution used by more than 65,000 traditional offline agents. This has resulted in more than 15x growth in gross written premium from 2020 to 2023."

It processed over 115,000 claims and added 45,000 new users last year, the startup said, which serves a total of over 5 million customers. Qoala, which also counts Peak XV among its backers, operates in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam in addition to its home market of Indonesia.

Qoala revealed that its gross written premiums have surged by 2.5x since 2022, and the startup now handles up to 60% of all claims internally, though it did not disclose exact numbers.

Qoala co-founder and chief executive Harshet Lunani said the new funding "demonstrates market confidence" in the startup's strategy. "Our mission to democratize insurance remains steadfast, and with this new infusion of funds, we are better equipped than ever to drive innovation and impact lives and livelihoods," he said in a prepared statement.

Qoala plans to deploy the fresh funds to explore strategic acquisitions and partnerships and plans to sprinkle AI across its channels.

The story was updated with additional context from the PayPal executive.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM)  Pennsylvania lawmakers have advanced a bill that would make Hersheys Kisses the states official candy.

State Representatives Thomas Mehaffie (R-Dauphin) and Patty Kim (D-Dauphin/Cumberland) renewed the bill after years of attempts saying last year the Kiss is recognizable worldwide and strengthened the regions economy in unparalleled ways.

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This Week in Pennsylvania

The idea of making Hersheys Kisses the official state candy began as a Bucks County students project that was brought to lawmakers. Similar legislation had never made it far enough to face a full vote in the House of Senate. On Tuesday it passed the House 130-71 with bipartisan support.

(The students) never thought that the Hershey Kiss being the state candy would be so confrontational, said Mehaffie ahead of Tuesdays vote.

Lets give these students the recognition they deserve and support their sweet initiative for Pennsylvania, said State Rep. Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks).

Not all members of the house felt as sweet towards the bill.

State Representative Paul Schemel (R-Franklin) voted against the bill and highlighted an extensive history of candy in Pennsylvania such as Peanut Chews and Peeps.

Today were being asked to put our thumb on the scale as a state government and select just one, one company to get the honor of being the state candy, one candy of being the state candy in Pennsylvania that is not fair or appropriate that one private enterprise be honored in this way when all of the others be disrespected, said Schemel, who concluded, Glory be to all candies in Pennsylvania.

State Rep. Russ Diamond (R-Lebanon) also voted against the bill saying it was unfair to other companies while highlighting headlines that poorly reflected The Hershey Company.

Mr. Speaker, said State Representative Brad Roae (R-Crawford/Erie), it is ridiculous that we are favoring a frickin piece of candy!

Hersheys Kisses were first made by the Hershey Chocolate Company in 1907. While the exact origin of the treats name is not certain, Hersheys says one story is that the machine that makes Kisses makes a sound like a kiss. A kiss was also a common confectionery term for a small piece of candy.

According to Hersheys, the company makes 70 million Kisses a day.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
Mordaunt says her visits have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for candidates standing for election to be MPs or councillors - KIRSTY WIGGLESWORTH/AP

It was a finding that raised eyebrows about leadership ambitions: Penny Mordaunt had visited 40 Tory associations across the country since Rishi Sunak became Prime Minister.

Now, Ms Mordaunt, the House of Commons Leader, has written to The Telegraph with an urgent clarification: The real figure is actually more than 70.

In a letter published in todays newspaper, Ms Mordaunt mounts a defence of the trips, arguing they are helping see off the electoral threat from Labour at the next election.

She also notes that her visits have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for candidates standing for election to be MPs or councillors.

The response followed a report in Saturdays Telegraph which revealed the 40 visits, based on public postings on local association websites and social media accounts.

It showed that Ms Mordaunt, who generated headlines for holding the sword of state aloft during the coronation of King Charles, had been auctioning off signed wooden swords.

But tongues are not likely to stop wagging at the news she has actually been on more than 70 such trips since Mr Sunak became leader in October 2022.

That means Ms Mordaunts stop-bys at local Tory associations are not happening every 13 days on average, as The Telegraph first calculated, but actually more like every week.

Wagging tongues

Ms Mordaunt writes in her letter: I am writing to correct a couple of inaccuracies in the article: Mordaunt has made 40 trips to Tory associations events since Sunak became PM, 22/3/2024.

In fact, I have made over 70 such visits, excluding those made in a ministerial capacity and any fundraising and campaigning organised by Conservative Central Office.

I am pleased to have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for our prospective candidates, incumbent MPs and local associations, and I intend to continue such visits in the coming weeks and months.

Ill be right there with them, campaigning on the doorstep and lending my support to ensure these fine people secure their seats in Parliament.

My motivation for doing so is straightforward  to support the campaign frontline against the threat of a Labour government.

Should Labour get back into power we can expect to see the undermining of Nato via an EU defence pact, the unpicking of decades of trade union reform, the clobbering of our businesses by new red tape and greater taxation, the erosion of our educational standards, cuts to the NHS budget and for all the nonsense and maladministration so evident in Wales and London to be inflicted on the British people further and worse.

The Commons Leader is seen as one of the frontrunners should Tory MPs move to try and replace Mr Sunak before the election, something Number 10 insiders dismiss as idle speculation.

Ms Mordaunts team have consistently waved away such ideas themselves, arguing that she remains committed to Mr Sunak and the government in which she serves.

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Dear Gary,

My sister died unexpectedly last year and had not left a will or any instructions to her pension company. She was still working so on her death there was a lump sum payable from her work pension.

My sister was not married and did not have children so under the intestacy rules her estate passes to me as her closest relative (our parents are long dead) and the pension company agreed to do the same.

The pension company initially wrote to me to say the amount I would get would be 274,990, but then put 27,490 in my account plus a small amount of interest. I queried this and they said they were very sorry but an extra digit was put in the figure in their initial letter in error and the correct figure has been paid.

I feel very disappointed and also am concerned about whether I can trust what they say.

If they have made one mistake could they make another? The situation is distressing me, and I feel I should be given more than just an apology. Is the initial letter I got from them legally binding? If so they owe me 250,000.

And even if it is not binding, can I have compensation for the payment I got being 250,000 less than I was promised.

Caroline by email

Dear Caroline,

I am sorry about the death of your sister. And I fully appreciate your concern and disappointment about what has happened with her pension.

During a bereavement, what we need is businesses to deal with us efficiently and with sympathy and certainly not provide misleading or wrong information.

In this case, I am sure we can all see how it is possible for an extra digit to creep into a letter (and with your email you sent me a copy of the letter so I can see for myself that it did happen) but I do understand that for you this is a matter of great significance.

The short answer is the letter you received contained a mistake, but a mistake is not legally binding.

Mistakes happen. It is frustrating when they do, but if it is an honest mistake, it is a principle of justice that the party making a mistake is not usually bound by it. Which I am glad about, given I have made honest mistakes myself and no doubt will again.

Here the communication you received from the pension company was not intended as a contract between you and them. Rather was merely a report of what you could expect as a beneficiary. It was therefore not intended to create a legally binding arrangement.

Your sister was the customer of the pension company, and you might be standing in her shoes now as her personal representative, under the intestacy rules, and as a beneficiary, but their only duty to you is to pay you what is owed, which they have now done.

Even if you had a contractual relationship with the pension company, if a mistake is made in a contract it can make the contract voidable, which means it is not enforceable anyway. As such, I do not see a way for you to force payment of an extra 250,000 from the pension company.

While I feel sorry for what has happened, you need to accept there is no legal remedy.

That said, I take your point as to whether anything the pension company says can now be trusted and to put your mind at rest you should ask them to show their workings out as to how they arrived at the figure they have paid you. You can also ask for a full schedule of contributions made to the pension over the years so you can sense-check what you got.

With a pension the basic principle is that a beneficiary is only entitled to the correct benefit and not to any figures quoted by mistake. And in your case the mistake was corrected at the point of payment anyway.

The situation can sometimes be different if a mistaken payment is actually made, that is, the wrong amount is paid over in error. In that case, a recipient of an overpayment may have an argument to retain some or all of the overpayment depending on the amount and length of time to the mistake being recognised.

The legal principle here is based on the beneficiary relying on the higher figure paid and spending it with the outcome of potential financial detriment to the beneficiary of the windfall if the error is corrected. As ever, all cases turn on the factual circumstances and quality of the evidence available.

In your case, I can see what has happened has made an already sad situation worse and you may wish to point this out to the pension company and invite them to offer you a token gesture of goodwill as compensation.

If they decline, you can then escalate it as a formal complaint and ultimately refer it to the Financial Ombudsman Service (Fos).

The Fos will allow complaints to be brought on behalf of a deceased person that would have been an eligible complainant, by those authorised in law to do so (in this case you as personal representative and beneficiary under your sisters intestacy).

To be clear, your complaint would be about customer service and how you were left feeling, rather than based on any legal claim. The ombudsman will look at these issues, rather than just assess the legal merits of a case.

Ask a lawyer should not be taken as formal legal advice, but rather as a starting point for readers to undertake their own further research.

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Retired welder Berthold Dwinger sent an expletive-riddled email all in capitals to Sir Keir, telling him his party were 'no better than the Tories' - James Linsell-Clark/SWNS

A man who threatened to strangle Sir Keir Starmer and shoot James Cleverly in emails has avoided jail.

Retired welder Berthold Dwinger sent the malicious and threatening emails to the offices of both prominent MPs to voice his concerns on current affairs, such as the conflict in Gaza.

The 74-year-old told Mr Cleverly, the Home Secretary, that he was lucky we didnt have guns in the UK, as hed shoot him and every single one of you front bench b------s.

A month later, frustrated at the opposition leaders position on the conflict in Gaza, he sent an expletive-riddled email all in capitals to Sir Keir, telling him his party were no better than the Tories and that they were two cheeks of the same a---.

When arrested, he told police he stood by his words that he would strangle the Labour leader. When told that his words could cause Sir Keir offence, he replied poor boy.

Dwinger, from Littleport in Cambridgeshire, was handed a four-month suspended prison sentence suspended for two years.

He was also handed a restraining order not to contact either Sir Keir or Mr Cleverly for two years.

In a statement to the court, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Speaker of the House of Commons, decried the emails as putting democracy itself at risk in potentially scaring MPs into leaving their posts.

You are lacking moral compass

He also referred to the deaths of both MP Jo Cox in 2016 and Sir David Amess in 2021, adding that MPs should be able to perform their duties in an environment of safety.

Dwinger had previously admitted two charges contrary to the 2003 Communications Act.

Prosecutor Thomas Murphy told the sentencing hearing at Westminster magistrates court that Dwinger had sent an email to the office of Mr Cleverly on Dec 9 with a subject line reading: You are lacking moral compass.

The email, focusing on no political subject in particular, called Cleverly incompetent and told him he needed removing from any kind of power.

Dwinger also said: Lucky we dont have guns or I would shoot every single one of you front bench b-------. You are toast You ugly p----. B. Dwinger.

Another email sent to the offices of Sir Keir on January 13, which was all in caps and had the subject line Zionism, began: You despicable sack of s---

The email, which also accused Sir Keir of continuing to support a genocide in Gaza and called him delusional [and] corrupt, added: I could strangle you with my bare hands.

You b------- are no better than the Tories - two cheeks of the same a---. You are the dregs of society. C---. B. Dwinger.

An out-of-character incident

Though neither Cleverly nor Starmer gave impact statements to the court, members of their office management who read the emails rated them as nine-out-of-ten and ten-out-of-ten respectively in terms of offensiveness.

Mr Murphy called the emails menacing and sinister, adding that when arrested for the emails, he told officers he stood by his threatening words.

Defending Dwinger, his lawyer Ms Hadid told the court her client has three children and five grandchildren and moved to the UK from his native Germany when he was 22 years old.

She said of the emails: It was an angry outburst of his views at the time and he had no intention to cause physical harm.

Hes a 74-year-old man who comes from a different generation. Its an out-of-character incident. They are a view. It is, If I could.

But District Judge Daniel Sternberg retorted: The statement of Sir Lindsay Hoyle reminds me that since 2016, two current or former Members of Parliament have been murdered: Jo Cox and Sir David Amess.

That is also part of the context in this sentencing.

Grossly offensive

Mr Sternberg handed Dwinger a four-month prison term, but suspended it for two years, taking into account the defendants age and the fact he cares for a friend.

Mr Sternberg also ordered Dwinger to pay 239 in costs and victim surcharge and complete a hundred hours of unpaid work as well as a restraining order, prohibiting Dwinger from contacting either Mr Cleverly or Sir Keir or either of their offices for two years.

He said: Sir Lindsay Hoyle, in his statement, says that democracy itself is at risk if MPs dont stand for reelection or change how they act in Parliament.

They should be able to perform their democratic tasks in an environment of safety.

Theres no doubt that your emails were threatening, malicious and grossly offensive.

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Justice Amy Coney Barrett asked about dating a pregnancy based on the womans recounting when her last menstrual period was.

Justice Elena Kagan wondered whether a medical procedure qualifies as an abortion if there is no fetal live tissue.

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And Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson shared her understanding that pregnancy tissue remaining in the body after a medication abortion doesnt necessarily require surgical intervention.

Four of the nine justices who heard Tuesdays highly anticipated Supreme Court oral arguments on a challenge to a key abortion drug are women, the highest number ever to sit on the high court for an abortion case. All three attorneys who argued the case, on both sides, are also women, a relative rarity in the male-dominated Supreme Court bar.

The result appeared to be strikingly candid, specific and non-euphemistic exchanges about womens health, highlighting the high courts changing gender ratio.

Justices Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor strongly dissented when the conservative majority overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, while Barrett was in the majority. But Jackson was not yet on the court at the time of that ruling.

The abortion pill case - which could restrict access to mifepristone, a medication used in 63 percent of the more than 1 million abortions performed annually in the United States - is focused on somewhat technical medical issues.

Antiabortion advocates argue the pills are highly dangerous, especially when taken without an ultrasound or in-person medical visit - false claims based largely on studies that have since been retracted by the journal that published them. Leading medical associations stress that the medication is extremely safe, with serious adverse events occurring in fewer than 0.5 percent of cases.

Ahead of the arguments, experts wondered how much the justices - legal, not medical experts - would engage with the health- and safety-related arguments made by both sides in the case. Some anticipated that the justices would stay away from the merits of the case, only discussing issues of whether the plaintiffs had standing to sue over the pills.

On Tuesday, the justices were really interested in the nitty-gritty, said Mary Ziegler, a law professor at the University of California at Davis who specializes in abortion.

They were trying to take this seriously and treat abortion pills in this context as a medical issue, Ziegler said. The kind of case this is - it kind of invites that. Its not a case about the Constitution.

While the majority of the discussion on Tuesday focused on the standing issues, the justices - especially the women - embraced opportunities to discuss the medical realities of the pills in their questions, occasionally even offering commentary of their own.

In one exchange about whether one of the doctor plaintiffs had standing in the case, Barrett drew a distinction between a procedure to clear out the uterus, known as dilation and curettage (or D&C), when it is performed after a miscarriage and when it is performed after an abortion.

The fact that she performed a D&C does not necessarily mean that there was a living embryo or fetus, Barrett said, referring to Christina Francis, an OB/GYN who is the chief executive of the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a plaintiff in the case. Because you can have a D&C after, you know, a miscarriage.

Soon after this, Kagan and Jackson joined in to back up Barrett - echoing her concerns about standing. At times, the three women even finished one anothers lines of questioning.

Can you clarify the broader conscience harm from the narrow one? Jackson asked Erin Hawley, the lawyer with the Alliance Defending Freedom, the antiabortion group that brought the case. Because I had understood the conscience harm as Justice Barrett does, but you suggest that theres a broader one.

Barrett also engaged in an in-depth discussion of whether an ultrasound should be required for a medication abortion. She went on to question the lawyer for the Justice Department, Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar, about ectopic pregnancies, a highly dangerous condition in which a pregnancy implants outside of the uterus - asking how it was possible to detect an ectopic pregnancy without an ultrasound.

Prelogar offered a highly specific answer that highlighted the lawyers grasp of the medical facts at issue.

Theres a set of screening questions that are often deployed, she said.

You can ask things like, Do you have unilateral pelvic pain? Did you become pregnant while you had an IUD in or after a tubal ligation? she continued, explaining the ins and outs of the issue.

---

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New Yorkers were heard shouting at one of the two men arrested in the fatal shooting of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller during his perp walk on Wednesday.

Lindy Jones, the 41-year-old driver of the vehicle stopped by Diller and his partner for illegally parking at a bus stop, faces criminal possession of a weapon and defacing a firearm charges, the department said Wednesday. No charges have been announced yet against the suspected gunman and Diller's alleged killer, Guy Rivera.

Jones' perp walk was brief, and he did not respond to any questions while police placed him in the back of a department vehicle.

Onlookers shouted things, such as "what do you have to say to his family, Lindy?" as well as "there is a baby that is gonna grow up without a father, Lindy" and "Shame on you young man."

NYPD OFFICER JONATHAN DILLER'S NEIGHBOR, A RETIRED 9/11 RESPONDER, SAYS HOCHUL, DAS HAVE 'BLOOD ON THEIR HANDS

The Queens District Attorney's Office told Fox News that Jones' arraignment will take place on Wednesday.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Rivera, 34, allegedly opened fire during a traffic stop conducted by Diller and his partner in Far Rockaway, Queens, at about 5:45 p.m. on Monday.

Rivera, who was in the passenger seat, allegedly fired first at police, fatally striking Diller in the torso below his protective vest. Rivera was struck by return fire and remains hospitalized at Jamaica Hospital.

After prosecutors obtained a search warrant for the SUV, authorities said a second firearm was found inside the vehicle, WABC reported.

As New York City mourns the 31-year-old Diller, who lived on Long Island with his wife and nearly 1-year-old son, one of his neighbors in Massapequa Park, blasted Gov. Kathy Hochul's support of "inexplicable bail reform laws," as well as the "revolving door of justice" in the Empire State as having contributed to Diller's tragic passing.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said that at least one of the suspects had over 20 prior arrests, demanding Albany state lawmakers address what he deemed a "recidivist problem" driving violent crime.

SUSPECTS IN SHOOTING DEATH OF NYPD OFFICER JONATHAN DILLER IDENTIFIED, HAVE LENGTHY RECORDS

New York City Mayor Eric Adams addressed the fatal shooting of NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller in Queens as "a senseless act of violence" during his weekly in-person press conference at City Hall on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

According to reports, Rivera had been previously arrested by the NYPD 21 times, including nine times for felony offenses. He was released from prison in September 2021 after serving nearly five years for criminal sale of a controlled substance, WABC reported, citing court records. He previously served three years in state prison in connection to a 2011 assault and was released in October 2014.

Meanwhile, Jones had previously been arrested by the NYPD 14 times, most recently for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon for having a loaded firearm in Far Rockaway on April 17, 2023. He was out on $75,000 bail at the time of Dillers slaying. Jones previously served 10 years in prison stemming from 2003 attempted murder and robbery charges and was released in November 2013.

Authorities suspect Jones and Rivera were casing a T-Mobile store on Mott Avenue on Monday when Diller and his partner asked the two suspects to move their vehicle from a bus stop. The men allegedly refused to roll down their windows. When Diller ordered the passenger, Rivera, to show his hands, Rivera allegedly opened fire, striking Diller below his vest. Diller's partner then fired at Rivera, striking him in the back, police said.

People pay their respects at a memorial for slain NYPD officer Jonathan Diller outside the 101st Precinct on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Manhattan, New York.

Diller's brother-in-law, Jonathan McAuley, who is also a police officer, posted a tribute on Facebook.

"The Lord called my brother-in-law, Jonathan Diller, home. Surrounded by family and the the men and women in blue, he was walked out [honorably], to many tears and salutes from Jamaica Hospital. What started out as an everyday car stop, instantly became a moment where so many lives would be turned upside down. Jon leaves behind a wife and a one-year-old son who will now grow up without his father," McAuley wrote.

"To those of you out there in the streets, it can be so easy to become wrapped into the moment. To think horrible events like this cant happen to you. To become focused on making that next arrest or racing to the action. Remember those who love you at those moments," the post added. "Jon, there are no words to describe how [devastated] we are that you are gone. You were a good man and a great father whose shoes can never be filled. I swear to you that I will look after your son as if he were my own. For the rest of my life."

Fox News' Kitty Le Claire contributed to this report.





Original article source: Perp walk: New Yorkers shout at suspect in fatal shooting of NYPD police officer, who now faces charges
The Perry High School Mock Trial team participated in the Iowa State Bar Association Mock Trial Central Regional Contest on March 22 in Ames.

The Perry High School Mock Trial Team consists of:

Kaylee Wuebker: Attorney

Quin Mahler-Moreno: Attorney

Mylah Meis: Attorney

Sophia McDevitt: Attorney/Witness

Catherine Miranda: Witness/Attorney

Seth Borgeson: Witness

Isaiah Christensen: Witness

Aleah Karolus: Witness

Maddie McDevitt: Alternate

The PHS Mock Trial Team is advised by Attorney AnneMarie McDevitt, Brenda Mintun and Tom Lipovac.

The team represented the Defendant in competition with Roland-Story High School which resulted in a total performance score tie of 203.5-203.5. The team represented the Prosecution in the second round, competing against a second team from Roland-Story High School, which resulted in a total performance score of 230-241. The Perry team finished overall in eighth place.

I appreciate this teams passion for the law. As this was my first experience with mock trial, I enjoyed learning with the students," Mintun said. "Witnessing both their effort in preparation and their growth in knowledge of the law was inspiring. Our witnesses and attorneys had excellent rapport, making the trials a joy to watch. I could not be more proud of our team and their accomplishment.

Tom Lipovac, Seth Borgeson, Brenda Mintun, Isaiah Christensen, Catherine Miranda, Kaylee Wuebker, Maddie McDevitt, Quin Mahler-Moreno, Sophia McDevitt, Mylah Meis and Aleah Karolus.

This year's team developed a cohesiveness while displaying excellent critical thinking skills. Their ability to analyze the details of the case, identify strengths and weaknesses in the witness statements, and present convincing, sound, and reasonable arguments in support of their position were strengths," Lipovac added. "Our team was diligent and determined in their preparation while competing in a challenging activity. They gave their best while participating in one of the largest academic activities offered in Iowa high schools. A special thank you to AnneMarie McDevittfor sharing her legal advice and expertise with our students. Her commitment to our program is valued.

Each year schools are provided with a criminal or a civil Mock Trial case. Mock Trial competitions are judged by courtroom judges, attorneys, and other legal professionals.

Teams are awarded performance points based on their ability to effectively portray the roles of attorneys and witnesses while engaging in the courtroom process and displaying critical thinking and presentation skills. Teams with 2-0 records/the highest performance point totals advance to the state tournament. The competition is a one class system encompassing high schools with a wide range of enrollments.

Mock Trial is designed to introduce students to our legal system by providing a challenging, academic competition. The program offers students an opportunity for personal growth and achievement, emphasizing the importance of research, presentation and teamwork. In addition to teaching students about contemporary public issues and the legal system, the program encourages teachers and students to develop learning partnerships with professionals from the community.

Yearly, more than 1,600 students from across Iowa participate. The tournament includes students from TAG programs, AP American Government classes and extracurricular Mock Trial clubs.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Perry High School Mock Trial team participates in 2024 regional contest
(KRON)  Five adults and three children were displaced after a house fire in San Leandro, the Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) said Tuesday on X. The fire happened early Monday morning at a family residence on 135th Street.

The fire started in the garage and quickly spread to the home, officials said. Fire crews were able to fully extinguish the fire within minutes. However, the familys cat died from the fire.

ACFD posted photos from the scene of the fire (below).

(Photo courtesy: Alameda County Fire Department)

(Photo courtesy: Alameda County Fire Department)

(Photo courtesy: Alameda County Fire Department)

The American Red Cross is assisting the victims of the fire. No other injuries were reported.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Two people arrested by police investigating the murder of a man in a County Down bar more than 30 years ago have been released.

Peter McCormack, who was 42, was shot dead when two gunmen burst into the Thierafurth Inn in Kilcoo on 19 November 1992.

Three other customers, including a 69-year-old man who was registered blind, were also injured in the attack.

A 63-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman were arrested on Tuesday.

Police said on Wednesday that the man and woman had "been released following questioning" and that "the investigation continues".

The 1992 attack is believed to have been carried out by the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF).

Issuing a fresh appeal for information in 2023 on the 31st anniversary of the murder, police said Mr McCormack was "an innocent victim of a sickening sectarian attack".

The bar was full of customers who were about to take part in a charity darts match when the gun attack happened.

Police believe the gunmen made their escape in a grey Ford Orion car, which was found abandoned a few miles away from the bar in Tollymore Forest Park.

The car had been stolen from an address in east Belfast earlier in the day.
People inspect buildings destroyed by an Israeli strike in Al-Habbariyah, Lebanon, on March 27, 2024. At least seven were killed and more injured on Wednesday in an Israeli strike on an emergency and relief center in south Lebanon, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua)

BEIRUT, March 27 (Xinhua) -- At least seven were killed and more injured on Wednesday in an Israeli strike on an emergency and relief center in south Lebanon, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources said Israeli warplanes destroyed the Emergency and Relief Center of the Islamic Health Authority, affiliated with the Islamic Group, in the village of Al-Habbariyah, killing seven of its paramedics and wounding others inside.

The Islamic Group is an Islamic political organization with a military wing under the name "al-Fajr Forces" that has recently carried out military operations against the Israeli army.

The Islamic Health Authority issued a statement saying that the raid on their center is a heinous crime and a flagrant violation of international laws and conventions.

"We hold the party that carried out this heinous crime fully responsible, and we also call on the Lebanese authorities to take the necessary measures to prosecute the criminals in international courts," it said.

"This aggression will not pass without response and punishment," said Hezbollah, vowing to retaliate.

The Lebanon-Israel border has been witnessing increased tensions since Oct. 8, 2023, after Lebanese armed group Hezbollah fired dozens of rockets at Israel in support of the Hamas attack on Israel the previous day, prompting Israel to respond by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon.

The confrontation between Hezbollah and Israel has claimed 378 lives on the Lebanese side, including 244 Hezbollah members and 73 civilians, according to Lebanese security sources. 

People inspect buildings destroyed by an Israeli strike in Al-Habbariyah, Lebanon, on March 27, 2024. At least seven were killed and more injured on Wednesday in an Israeli strike on an emergency and relief center in south Lebanon, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua)
PETERSBURG  The city school system is refusing to release the entire text of Dr. Tamara Sterlings resignation letter, saying it contains information that would divulge identifiable individuals.

Tuesday, a spokesperson for the Petersburg City Public Schools responded to The Progress-Index's state Freedom of Information Act request for a copy of Sterlings letter. When the School Board announced Sterlings resignation March 20, only a portion of the letter was referenced including glowing remarks about her time in Petersburg  a contrast to what had been painted as an acrimonious departure Feb. 23 when Sterling was placed on administrative leave and reportedly escorted from the administrative headquarters.

"I am confident that the dedication and hard work of the staff, faculty, and administration, with governance from the School Board, will continue to propel the district toward even greater heights in the future, Sterling wrote in the letter as quoted by the School Board statement.

Sterling

Her last official day is April 30. PCPS chief of staff Dr. John Farrelly, a former North Carolina school superintendent brought to Petersburg last year, will lead daily operations until a replacement is found.

In denying the newspapers request, PCPS spokesperson Terrance Dixon cited Virginia Code Section 2.2-3705.1(1) as the basis for not releasing the letter. That code, part of the entire Virginia Freedom of Information Act, states that any "personnel information concerning identifiable individuals can be withheld from public release unless the person making the request is the subject of the information.

Please be advised that the requested record is being entirely withheld pursuant to [FOIA] because it contains personnel information concerning identifiable individuals, Dixon wrote. One document is being withheld pursuant to this exemption.

The day after Sterlings letter was accepted by the board, The Progress-Index issued a formal FOIA request for copies of both Sterlings resignation letter and her contract with PCPS. FOIA says that contracts between a public body and its officers or employees can be released unless the contract addresses an employment dispute between that employee and the public body.

The school system provided a copy of Sterlings contract.

After The Progress-Index received Dixons response, the original request was amended to ask for a copy of the letter with the personnel information redacted. At the time of publication, that request has not been answered.

Earlier this month, the board announced a joint agreement between it and Sterling for the superintendent to step down after less than a year and a half on the job. That announcement came almost a month after Sterling was put on administrative leave by the board and reportedly escorted out of the building.

The reason for the leave and the circumstances surrounding her departure were wrapped in secrecy for almost a week after she left. Repeated efforts by The Progress-Index to get confirmation about her job status were finally answered when the school system put out a statement addressing misinformation about the events.

Sterling said on her LinkedIn page that she was no longer employed by the school system as of last month, but School Board chair Kenneth Pritchett maintained she had just been put on leave for a personnel matter. The status was further clouded when the Virginia Department of Education put out its own statement at the same time as Pritchett offering to help Petersburg with the transition to a new superintendent.

Since posting her updated LinkedIn status, Sterling has not responded to The Progress-Index's requests for comment.

Bill Atkinson (he/him/his) is an award-winning journalist who covers breaking news, government and politics. Reach him at batkinson@progress-index.com or on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @BAtkinson_PI.

This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: School system denies newspaper's request for resignation letter
Phoenix, Arizona, passed a landmark rule this week that will provide protections from extreme heat for thousands of outdoor workers in the hottest US city.

In a unanimous 7-0 vote, Phoenix city council passed an ordinance on Tuesday requiring employers to provide access to rest, shade, water and air conditioning, as well as training on recognizing signs of heat stress. The rule applies to city contractors and their subcontractors who work outdoors, including construction and airport workers.

Related: Deadliest year on record as Phoenix heat fatalities rise by 50%

This heat safety ordinance will change my life, said Filiberto Lares in a statement. Hes been working at Phoenixs Sky Harbor airport for the past 11 years, delivering food to airplanes. In the summers, when the temperatures reach extremes, the asphalt on the tarmac is even hotter.

The rule would also ensure access to air conditioning in the driver compartment of vehicles by no later than 1 May 2025 and would apply to an estimated 10,000 workers under city contracts, according to deputy city manager Lori Bays.

Phoenix is recognizing the need to take action to protect the most vulnerable, said Juan Declet-Barreto, climate vulnerability researcher at the Union of Concerned Scientists. With an intense heat island effect, theres very little vegetation and an unequal distribution of shading and trees that can help lower exposure to temperatures.

People of color are disproportionately impacted by extreme heat. More than 40% of all outdoor workers in the US are Black or Hispanic, while making up roughly 32% of the total population.

Last summer, Phoenix endured record-breaking heat, seeing 31 days straight with temperatures over 110F (43C). In 2023, heat killed 340 people in Phoenix and 645 people in Maricopa county. Three out of four fatalities took place outdoors, and theres currently no data on work-related heat deaths.

Its hard to even describe just how intense the heat is here, said Katelyn Parady, a Phoenix-based representative of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health. Workers talk about getting dizzy, throwing up, working themselves into a state of exhaustion, and there were no specific protections until now.

One of the groups that opposed the ordinance is the construction industry. Ahead of the hearing, the Arizona General Contractors Association issued a letter calling the regulations redundant in the face of federal regulations that would take priority over city ordinances.

However, there are currently no federal standards that protect outdoor workers from extreme heat. The Phoenix ordinance comes amid tightening restrictions on setting local heat protections in Florida, which passed a pre-emptive bill that bans heat standards earlier this month.

As we prepare for this coming summer, we need to think about those who work outside. They need breaks. They need to stay hydrated, said Councilwoman Laura Pastor, who supported the ordinance. Heat mitigation and respite is essential to life in Phoenix, and this is a crucial step towards prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of our essential workers.
(KRON)  Police are asking for the publics help to identify five suspects who were photographed during a riot at a University of California Berkeley campus event last month.

The UC Police Department released images of the five suspects on Tuesday.

Police wrote, On 2/26/24, a riot ensued at a campus event hosted by a Jewish student organization at the Zellerbach Playhouse. Members of the crowd forced their way into the building, injured guests and police officers, and caused property damage. Two incidents were classified as hate crimes.

The University of California Police Department is trying to identify this person following a riot on campus. (UCPD photo)

The University of California Police Department is trying to identify this person following a riot on campus. (UCPD photo)

The University of California Police Department is trying to identify this person following a riot on campus. (UCPD photo)

Police said they are requesting assistance from the public to identify specific people who investigators believe committed criminal acts during the event.

Anyone able to identify any of the people in the images should contact UCPD Detective Thomsen at 510-642-1606, or email j.thomsen@berkeley.edu.

The University of California Police Department is trying to identify this person following a riot on campus. (UCPD photo)

The University of California Police Department is trying to identify this person following a riot on campus. (UCPD photo)

University Chancellor Carol Christ said on February 26 protestors turned violent when they broke into a campus building to stop an event featuring a speaker from Israel. A crowd of 200 protesters surrounded the building.

University leaders slammed the protest as unacceptable. The protest was organized on social media by a group demanding an end to the war in Gaza.

The other night was harassment, violence and overt antisemitism, said Tyler Gregory, CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council Bay Area. I think there are a lot of Jewish students who are feeling alienated.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
The Piedmont Park Conservancy is celebrating 35 years of preserving Piedmont Park. Its a mission that started in 1989 with what the group says was a small group of citizens and civic leaders who partnered up with the City of Atlanta to protect the park.

Now, after more than 30 years of work, the nonprofit organization is announcing an appeal to continue preserving and enhancing Piedmont Park.

To do so, the Conservancy said theyre working to raise $3.5 million to kickstart a comprehensive master planning effort to add new acreage and green space to Piedmont Park, in addition to reimagining its current 200-plus acres.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Part of the effort plans to use more than $2.5 million to improve and enhance the park.

Additionally, the group wants to further the preservation of what they call Atlantas Beating Green Heart with a lineup of celbratory events throughout 2024.

The main part of their campaign is the comprehensive master planning process, according to the Piedmont Park Conservancy, with the funds to be used for studies to acquire additional acreage, enhance green spaces and make vital improvements.

TRENDING STORIES:

As part of the process, the PPC said theyll be getting input from neighboring residents and civic groups throughout the spring and summer, while drafting the master plan in the fall to guide maintenance protocols and capital projects for the next 10 years and longer.

As we celebrate Piedmont Park Conservancys 35th anniversary, its evident that the Park is more than just an oasis in our city; its the beating green heart of Atlanta, Piedmont Park Conservancy President and CEO Doug Widener said in a s tatement. Investing in the future of Piedmont Park honors its legacy, while pledging resources and a continued commitment to its vitality. The Conservancys 35th Anniversary Appeal presents an opportunity for Atlantans to come together to help preserve one of our most cherished cultural assets, ensuring this historic greenspace for generations to come.

The plan includes the following enhancements and improvements:

Lighting the Active Oval

Updates and landscape beautification to the Charles Allen and Park Drive gates

Updates and landscape beautification to the Park Tavern, 12th Street, 10th Street and 14th Street park entrances

Park-wide railing repairs

Legacy fountain restoration

Lighting enhancements

Erosion control measures

Path repaving

Swimming pool resurfacing

Sunshade replacement

Splash pad updates

Creation of a donor recognition feature

The PPC plans to set up a $350,000 endowment as a reserve for the Conservancy to continue its work.

An annual fundraiser, the Landmark Luncheon, is scheduled for April 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with more events to follow throughout the year.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
For previous reports on this story view the video player above.

WAVERLY, Ohio (WCMH)  The second of two former Pike County Sheriff deputies was sentenced to serve over eight years in prison after being found guilty for excessive force while employed.

In August a federal jury found Jeremy Mooney guilty on two counts of deprivation of civil rights under the color of law, a charge that carries up to a 10-year prison sentence. On Wednesday a United States District Court Southern District of Ohio Eastern Division judge sentenced Mooney to serve 100 months  eight years and four months  in prison.

The judge also sentenced Mooney to three years of probation for each count, plus a $200 special assessment fine. Attorneys representing both parties will reconvene to work on restitution due to new medical bills brought forth by the victims families.

Mooney is scheduled to report to the U.S. Marshals Office on Thursday.

Ohio school board may raise teacher license fees as budget shortfall looms

A grand jury originally indicted Mooney and his former supervisor, William Stansberry Jr., on Oct. 19, 2022. While they worked a shift overnight from Nov. 17 into Nov. 18, 2019, Mooney took an inmate from the Pike County Jail to the sheriffs office headquarters. The then-deputy placed the inmate in a violent prisoner restraint chair with his hands behind his back, U.S. District Attorney Kenneth Parker said.

Mooney, 48 then spent over an hour violently antagonizing the inmate. Parker detailed that the deputy dragged the inmate, still restrained, outside and pepper sprayed him directly in the face. The inmate moved around from the pain and his chair fell backward. While on the ground, Mooney pepper-sprayed him again.

After bringing the victim back inside, Mooney then punched him in the head 11 times, using enough force to break his own hand, according to Parker. Every instance of unlawful use of force happened while the inmate posed no threat to himself or others.

While Stansberry Jr. did not participate in the beating, he violated the inmates constitutional rights by intentionally doing nothing to stop the deputy he supervised.

Stansberry Jr. pleaded guilty to a single charge of the same crime in July 2023, according to the office of the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio. On March 12 Stansberry Jr. was sentenced to six months in prison with an additional three years of supervised released

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
Simon Riggs, a tech entrepreneur from Ampthill, Bedfordshire, was pronounced dead at the scene

A father of three who died when his plane crashed at Britains largest aviation museum has been named by his family.

Simon Riggs, a tech entrepreneur from Ampthill, Bedfordshire, was pronounced dead at the scene on Tuesday afternoon after the crash at Imperial War Museum Duxford, Cambridgeshire.

He is survived by Karen, his wife of six years, three adult children and three adult step-children.

His step-son, Sam Holdstock-Marshall, paid tribute on social media, saying he had lived his life to the fullest.

It is with a heavy heart that Im sharing this news, he wrote. Yesterday afternoon Simon Riggs passed away. A much loved husband, father and friend.

Having recently stepped down from working life, Simon continued to live his life to the fullest. He will be greatly missed.

In a statement, Imperial War Museum Duxford said: We are sad to report that the pilot, a man in his 50s from the Bedfordshire area, did not survive the crash. Despite the best efforts of medical crews, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. Cambridgeshire Police have informed next of kin, who attended the scene of the accident.

The wreckage of a red and white aircraft was visible to visitors at the museum - Cambs News/Bav Media

Flight data showed that the Cirrus SR-22 had been circling the airfield, which is home to scores of privately owned planes, for 19 minutes before coming into land.

A video filmed by an eyewitness appears to show the red and white plane then banking to the left and almost rotating upside down before colliding with the ground.

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), which deployed inspectors to the crash site on Tuesday, is conducting an investigation.

Police, firefighters and ambulance crews all rushed to the scene on Tuesday after the crash. Witnesses said firefighters performed CPR on a person close to the wreckage.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue attended the crash scene on Tuesday - Cambs News/Bav Media

The colour of the planes crashed fuselage and a partly visible registration on it match a privately owned Cirrus SR-22 Turbo registered at Duxford in Mr and Mrs Riggss names.

A party of schoolchildren on a visit to the museum is believed to have witnessed the crash.

Kate Moore, 62, was at Duxford with her husband when the plane crashed. She said: While we were outside, we heard a bang and turned to see plumes of smoke. We were a long way away, and many others there hadnt an idea anything had occurred. I only saw the crash post-impact.

Its all a rather tragic end to a joyful day seeing the Hurricane and other planes flying after their winter maintenance.

Frank Marshall, another of Mr Riggss step-sons, said: He was a fantastic and wonderful human being. He made my mum very happy and he will be sadly missed. Fly high Simon.

Andreas Kretschmer, a former colleague of Mr Riggs, also paid tribute, saying: Simon Riggs was more than just my boss, I liked him and his warm, welcoming nature. Over time, a deep friendship developed between his family and my family. I was shocked to learn of his death today. My deep condolences to his wife Karen Riggs, children, and family.

Imperial War Museum Duxford is Britains largest aviation museum and features runways and exhibition buildings containing hundreds of aircraft. It closed early on Tuesday and is not due to reopen until Good Friday.

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PINEVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  The owner of a Pineville flea market said he has begun to explore what legal action is available to him after town leaders voted to seize part of his land to make an electrical substation the town reportedly desperately needs.

The substation will be placed on a one-acre portion of land in the corner of Millers Flea Market, just feet from the McCullough neighborhood.

In 2023, ElectriCities revealed that the current electric grid would become overloaded by 2025, which could lead to power outages.

It explored 10 different locations, which included two plots of land that belong to Steve Miller: Millers Flea Market and, a piece of rural land directly across the street from it, along Miller Road.

READ MORE | Major backlash over Pineville electrical substation proposal

The proposal was met with heated disdain from people nearby over concerns of health, property value, and overall quality of life.

In January, Miller told Queen City News he was against the proposal and had no intention of selling, his familys land.

On Monday night, however, city council members took a vote to move forward with the substations construction.

It ended in a 2-2 tie between city council members which had to be broken by Mayor David Phillips, in favor of the decision.

I was shocked, they didnt listen to anyone, Miller said in a phone conversation Tuesday afternoon.

In January, Miller said he was open to discussing options for selling the land across the street for the substation, but those talks never fully developed.

In a statement to Queen City News, ElectriCities said, The towns attorney reached out to the property owners attorney multiple times to discuss the alternate site. The property owners attorney did not provide the town with a proposed sale price until a few days prior to the vote was scheduled and wanted additional time to discuss it with the property owner.

Most of the city council members were not immediately available for a comment on the vote, Tuesday afternoon.

Person sent to hospital after falling from water tower in northeast Charlotte: Medic

However, Council Member Chris McDonough explained that he voted yes because he felt it would benefit the future of the city.

Miller has a 30-day window to change city council members minds or to find a legal way through.

ElectriCities representatives said their next steps are to find materials and labor contracts to begin construction, which will be completed by the end of 2025.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
A local charity wants your gently worn shoes to help entrepreneurs in developing countries.

The Steel City Dragons is running its Shoes for Strokes campaign through April 24.

Donated shoes are shipped by Fuds2Orgs to small business operators in developing countries who sell them at affordable prices.

Buyers benefit from the low prices and sellers benefit from income, helping the countrys economy.

Fuds2Orgs will pay the Steel City Dragons for every pound of shoes collected.

These funds will support the Steel City Dragons wellness programs, giving access to affordable dragon boat workouts to Pittsburghers.

Send an email to shoes@steelcitydragons.org for donation instructions.

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The Pittsburgh Pirates and PNC Bank have announced this years winners of the Going to Bat for Small Business program.

The program provides support to small businesses that make positive impacts on the community.

Each business receives a marketing package valued up to $100,000 and an additional $5,000.

These entrepreneurs demonstrated not just a drive to grow their businesses, but also a desire to create opportunities and bring about impactful change in their communities, said Pirates President Travis Williams. Bob [Nutting]s initial vision for this program was to provide a platform for small local businesses to achieve these goals. We are proud to team up with PNC to recognize these businesses and to provide them with resources that will help them to do so.

The recipients were selected by a panel after providing a plan of how the program could help their business grow.

The recipients are:

Los Sabrosos Dance Co.

TerraGreen

Spectrum Fudge

Pyramid Pgh Marketing & Advertising Agency

Davis Consulting Solutions

Bumbleberry Farms

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CANBERRA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Three people have been confirmed to have died when their fishing boat capsized off the coast of South Australia (SA).

Authorities on Tuesday night confirmed that an emergency search and rescue operation had found the bodies of two passengers who were missing after the boat capsized on Monday near Spilsby Island 200 km west of Adelaide in the Spencer Gulf.

It comes after the discovery of the first body and the rescue of two survivors, a 44-year-old man and a 13-year-old boy, from a reef in the early morning on Tuesday.

The survivors, who have been identified as leading Flinders University sleep specialist Danny Eckert and his son, told SA Police that their boat was capsized by a wave at 4:00 p.m. (GMT 0630) on Monday afternoon, leaving them clinging to a reef awaiting help for 10 hours.

Family of those on board alerted police at 8:30 p.m. (GMT 1100) on Monday night when the boat failed to return from the fishing trip, prompting an emergency search that included helicopters, police boats and a redirected cruise ship.

After they were found and winched to safety, the survivors were taken to hospital for treatment for non-life-threatening injuries including hypothermia.

SA Police Superintendent Paul Bahr said at a press conference on Tuesday that investigations into the incident would continue.

"They were fishing near Spilsby Island when they were swamped by a wave, overturning the boat and throwing everyone into the water," Bahr said.

"We're still talking to the survivors, so we're still trying to put that picture together in terms of how they ended up on the reef away from the boat."

The damaged boat hull was found upturned near Spilsby Island in the early hours of Tuesday morning and has been taken to a police holding yard for forensic testing. 
BALTIMORE (AP)  It was the middle of the night when a dispatchers warning crackled over the radio: A massive cargo ship had lost its steering capabilities and was heading toward the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Within about 90 seconds, police officers responded that they had managed to stop vehicle traffic over the Baltimore bridge in both directions. One said he was about to drive onto the bridge to alert a construction crew.

But it was too late. Powerless and laden with huge containers, the vessel smashed into a support pillar.

The whole bridge just fell down, a frantic officer said. Start, start whoever, everybody ... the whole bridge just collapsed.

When the container ship Dali slammed into the pillar around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, it caused a long span of the bridge, a major link in the regions transport networks, to crumple into the Patapsco River. The loss of the bridge is expected to snarl commuter traffic and disrupt a vital shipping port.

At least eight people went into the water. Two were rescued but the other six, part of a construction crew that had been filling potholes on the bridge, were missing and presumed dead. A search for their bodies was underway Wednesday morning, according to Maryland State Police spokesperson Elena Russo.

Among the missing were people from Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, according to diplomats from those countries. The Honduran man was identified as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova.

Federal and state officials said the crash appeared to be an accident. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, and ship traffic entering and leaving the Port of Baltimore was suspended indefinitely.

Capt. Michael Burns Jr. of the Maritime Center for Responsible Energy said bringing a ship into or out of ports in restricted waters with limited room to maneuver is one of the most technically challenging and demanding things that we do.

So there really is few things that are scarier than a loss of power in restricted waters, he said. And when a ship loses propulsion and steering, then its really at the mercy of the wind and the current.

Video showed the ship moving at what Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said was about 9 mph (15 kph) toward the 1.6-mile (2.6-kilometer) bridge. Traffic was still moving across the span, and some vehicles appeared to escape with only seconds to spare. The crash caused the span to break and fall into the water within seconds, and jagged remnants were left jutting up from the water.

Police said there is no evidence anyone went into the water other than the workers, though they had not discounted the possibility.

A senior executive at the company that employed the crew, Brawner Builders, said they were working in the middle of the bridge when it fell.

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (AP Photo/Steve Ruark)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (AP Photo/Steve Ruark)

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sit on the water after it collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The collapsed steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and a section of the roadway still upright (L) sit on the water after the bridge collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sit on the water after it collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

Baltimore Fire Department Chief James Wallace, with Police Commissioner Richard Worley (R) and Mayor Brandon Scott (2nd R), speaks at a press conference on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The bridge collapsed early March 26 after being struck by a container ship, sending multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

A section of the roadway still stands after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after it was struck by a container ship, in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

A US Coast Guard helicopter flies over the Dali container vessel after it struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

TOPSHOT - The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The commuter bridge collapsed after being rammed by the Dali ship, causing vehicles to plunge into the water. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

TOPSHOT - The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

Parts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge remain after a container ship collided with a support Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Baltimore. The major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below. Rescuers were searching for multiple people in the water. (WJLA via AP)

The steel frame of the Francis Scott Key Bridge sits on top of a container ship after it struck the bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. The collapsed sent multiple vehicles and up to 20 people plunging into the harbor below.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is shown early morning, Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from Riviera Beach, Md. A container ship rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap in a few places and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers were initially searching for at least seven people. (AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren)

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is shown early morning, Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from Riviera Beach, Md. A container ship rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap in a few places and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers were initially searching for at least seven people. (AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren)

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is shown early morning, Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from Riviera Beach, Md. A container ship rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, causing it to snap in a few places and plunge into the river below. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers were initially searching for at least seven people. (AP Photo/Nathan Ellgren)

This was so completely unforeseen, said Jeffrey Pritzker, the companys executive vice president. We dont know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers.

Jesus Campos, who has worked on the bridge for Brawner Builders and knows members of the crew, said he was told they were on a break and some were sitting in their trucks.

I know that a month ago, I was there, and I know what it feels like when the trailers pass, Campos said. Imagine knowing that is falling. It is so hard. One would not know what to do.

Father Ako Walker, a Catholic priest at Sacred Heart of Jesus, said outside a vigil that he spent time with the families of the missing workers as they waited for news of their loved ones.

You can see the pain etched on their faces, Walker said.

Rescuers pulled two people out of the water. One person was treated at a hospital and discharged hours later.

The crash happened long before the busy morning commute on the bridge, which was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, according to the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Tuesdays collapse is sure to create a logistical headache along the East Coast for months, if not longer, shutting down shipping traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major hub.

Paul Wiedefeld, the states transportation secretary, said vessel traffic in and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though the facility was still open to trucks.

Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast, state Sen. Johnny Ray Salling said.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said it was too soon to give a time frame for clearing the channel, which is about 50 feet (15 meters) deep, while President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore soon and expects the federal government to pay the entire cost of rebuilding.

Synergy Marine Group, which manages the ship, said the impact happened while it was under the control of one or more pilots, who are local specialists who help guide vessels safely in and out of ports. Synergy said in a statement Wednesday that one crew member was treated at a hospital for a minor injury.

The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd., and Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

The 985-foot-long (300-meter-long) Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic.

The vessel also passed foreign port state inspections in June and September 2023. In the June 2023 inspection, a faulty monitor gauge for fuel pressure was rectified before the vessel departed the port, Singapores port authority said in a statement Wednesday.

Donald Heinbuch, a retired chief with Baltimores fire department, said he was startled awake by a deep rumbling that shook his house for several seconds and felt like an earthquake.

He drove to the river and couldnt believe what he saw: The ship was there, and the bridge was in the water, like it was blown up.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott called it an unthinkable tragedy. Gov. Moore said that all of our hearts are broken for the victims and their families, and he also hailed first responders for their quick response.

Literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, these people are heroes, Moore said. They saved lives last night.

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PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  The Prince Georges County Police Department said its investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that happened in Laurel on Sunday.

Police said that on March 24 at about 6:00 pm, they responded to a crash in the area of Laurel Bowie Road and Mallard Drive.

Officials said one person died. She was identified as 45-year-old Parbati Sharma of Herndon, Virginia.

The 4 other people in the SUV were transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Baltimores Key Bridge collapse: What we know amid investigation

The driver of the other car had minor injuries.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Unit at 301-731-4422.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  The Austin Police Association (APA) wants a seat at the table at a hearing for a lawsuit related to the Austin Police Oversight Act, which voters passed in May 2023.

In court Tuesday, attorneys representing the APA aimed to make the case of why the union should be involved in the hearing.

Advocacy Group Equity Action filed the lawsuit against the City of Austin. The APA is not listed on the lawsuit. Equity Action wants the City to enforce all provisions of the Austin Police Oversight Act.

City, Austin Police Association re-enter APD contract negotiations

The APA and other law enforcement groups have said from the start that certain provisions of the Austin Police Oversight Act violate state law. Once concerns first rose, city leaders addressed the need for further clarification  which the result of Equity Actions lawsuit could provide.

Thats one of the reasons the APA wants to be involved in the hearing, according to Tuesdays court proceedings.

Attorneys for the APA and the City of Austin sat on the same side of the courtroom, but the two entities, per their negotiating teams, currently dont see eye-to-eye on the oversight matters at hand.

During the first two meetings of the police contract negotiations, the citys team has maintained that its position on the contract is that all of the Austin Police Oversight Act needs to enforced and written into the contract.

The item of highest contention is the g-file, an internal personnel file containing unsubstantiated complaints against police officers that did not involve any discipline from the Internal Affairs division. This is one of the items the APA said violates state law. The Austin Police Oversight Act calls for that to be public.

The judge took the situation into advisement after Tuesdays hearing. The next hearing related to this is set for April 9.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
The patrol police have posted footage showing the aftermath of Wednesdays aerial bomb attack by Russia on Kharkiv.

Source: Oleksii Biloshytskyi, First Deputy Head of the National Police of Ukraine, on Facebook

Quote: "Kharkiv. FAB with UMPC (unified planning and correction module).

They are dropping bombs on peaceful neighbourhoods and civilians. They continue to terrorise Kharkiv; this time, a secondary school and at least 14 residential buildings were damaged."

Details: Biloshytsky posted a video from a police officer's body camera, adding: "We are on the spot, as always, shoulder to shoulder with you and with all the Defence Forces."

The video shows a law enforcement officer rushing to help a family with small children who were injured in the Russian attack.

The Kharkiv Oblast police released another video.

One person is reported to have been killed and several people injured (19 according to early reports), including four children aged between three months and nine years, in the attack on Kharkiv on 27 March.

Photo: National Police of Ukraine

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A group of suspected pickpockets was arrested on Friday after targeting customers at a popular home furnishing store in Irvine, California, according to police.

On Wednesday, the Irvine Police Department said officers conducted surveillances on multiple shopping centers Friday afternoon due to recent thefts.

At around 3 p.m., officers noticed a group of two men and two women walking quickly toward a car parked near a HomeGoods store. The group kept looking over their shoulders, and one of the men folded up a temporary license plate on the back of the car, making it unreadable.

Officers followed the car to the Irvine Spectrum, where they made a traffic stop. It was then that officers found a wallet that didnt belong to any of the four, and a magnetic device used to decode credit card information, police said.

Los Angeles student involved in fight died of accidental blunt head trauma: examiner

The four were arrested on suspicion of burglary, conspiracy to commit burglary, grand theft and possession of identity theft material, and booked into Orange County Jail. They were identified as Maria Beltran, 52, and Thonson Yeamier Gomezbarreto, 32, of North Hollywood, and Laidy Viviana Moraleon, 36, and William Alberto Melomontenegro, 38, of Los Angeles.

Irvine Pickpocket mugshots

The wallet was returned to the victim and the credit card had not been used by the suspects.

Irvine police released security footage of the group allegedly attempting similar tactics on another HomeGoods customer. In the video, one of the women appears to attempt to distract a shopper while one of the men reaches for items in her possession.

That attempt was unsuccessful, police said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
During a meeting in Riga, Polish Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski and Latvian counterpart Krisjanis Karins discussed the recent Russian airstrikes in Ukraine.

Source: PAP, as reported by European Pravda

Details: According to Sikorski, from an information standpoint, the West can only see a small amount of what Ukraine has to deal with.

"It seems to me that some media in the West are not shocked enough by this unprecedented wave of air terrorism against Ukraine," he said.

Regarding the incident with a Russian missile in Polish airspace, the Foreign Minister said that Warsaw reserves the right to defend its own territory, which is also NATO territory.

"But as allies, we must also think about how to help Ukraine," Sikorski concluded.

Earlier, Poland's Deputy Foreign Minister Andrzej Szejna said that NATO is considering the option of shooting down Russian missiles when they fly towards North Atlantic Alliance territory.

On 24 March at 04:23, Polish airspace was violated by a cruise missile launched from a long-range Russian warplane. The missile entered Polish airspace near the village of Oserdow in the Lublin voivodeship and remained there for 39 seconds.

Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, Polands Minister of National Defence, stated that Poland would have downed the Russian missile if there had been any signs that it was heading for a target on Polish territory.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said that the North Atlantic Alliance should be shooting down Russian air targets that fly into the airspace of NATO member states.

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Farmers in Poland continue to block three border crossing points near Ukraine, namely Yahodyn, Rava-Ruska and Uhryniv.

Source: Colonel Andrii Demchenko, spokesperson for the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, on the air of the national 24/7 newscast

Quote: "In recent days, Polish farmers have only blocked three directions. Previously, they performed their actions on six. As of now, three directions  Krakivets, Shehyni, and Ustyluh  were unblocked and they ceased their actions [there]. Now, there is a lot of movement in both directions, towards Ukraine and Poland. They continue to block Yahodyn, Rava-Ruska and Uhryniv," he said.

Farmers refuse to allow trucks to pass through the Yahodyn and Rava-Ruska border crossings between Ukraine and Poland. However, near the Uhryniv checkpoint, they still intend to let one truck pass through to Poland and three trucks to Ukraine every six hours.

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The inaugural Ajman Folklore Festival, themed "Ajman...embracing history and identity," will be organised from April 19 to 21 to enhance the heritage and cultural awareness within the UAE emirate of Ajman.

The event, being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, and Chairman of Ajman Executive Council, is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Culture, the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, the Rewaq Ousha Bint Hussein Cultural Center, and the MTG Events Organizing Company..

This announcement was made during a press conference hosted by the Rewaq Ousha Bint Hussein Cultural Center. On attendace were representatives from the Ministry of Culture and Ajman Department of Tourism Development, Dr Mouza Ghubash, the festival's president, as well as official of MTG company, whihc is responsible for organising the festivals events.

Dr Ghubash, who is also the Chairwoman of the Rewaq Ousha Bint Hussein Cultural Center, expressed her gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Culture and the Ajman Department of Tourism Development in organising this festival. She highlighted how the event will showcase the diverse and vibrant cultural heritage of Ajman, emphasising its importance in fostering awareness among youth regarding folklore and heritage.

Dr Ghubash emphasised that this particular festival holds a special significance as it greatly contributes to the preservation of societies' cultural and historical identities.

She said the festival serves as a dynamic platform, offering young individuals the chance to explore and delve into their folk heritage through artistic displays and a range of traditional performances showcased throughout the event. Moreover, incorporating regional and global heritage into the festival fosters cultural exchange among communities promotes mutual understanding between diverse cultures and societies, and deepens their appreciation for the value of diversity in enriching human civilization. Ultimately, such initiatives contribute to fostering peace and tolerance among peoples.

A key focus of this festival is to spotlight the ancient heritage of the Emirate of Ajman, utilising the festival as a platform to exhibit its distinctive cultural and artistic legacy. These events play a vital role in preserving Emirati heritage and passing it down to younger generations, thereby reinforcing national identity and nurturing cultural exchange within the community.

The festival will have a diverse and extensive programme, featuring a wide array of concerts, folkloric performances, cultural showcases, and workshops. Additionally, there will be an art exhibition, a display of ancient collectibles, culinary delights, fashion shows, daily competitions, and shopping kiosks catering to enthusiasts.

On the festival's inaugural day, there will be a lineup of Emirati folklore activities, featuring the opening of an art exhibition and a display of vintage collectibles both indoors and at external kiosks. Emirati folk performances like Al-Ayyala and Al-Yawla, as well as workshops on wicker painting and candle making, will also take place. Furthermore, there will be an Emirati artist's gathering and a symposium on Nabati poetry, concluding with the announcement of the winners of the competition for the most captivating Nabati poem about Ajman.

The festival's second day will feature an enchanting display of Arab folklore, with a lively folk dance performance representing countries like Palestine, Egypt, Iraq, Morocco, and Yemen. Adding to the ambiance will be the rhythmic drumming of artist Muhammad Karazon, complemented by popular songs from each nation. Furthermore, attendees can participate in a workshop focused on Palestinian embroidery and explore an exhibition showcasing folkloric costumes from various Arab countries tailored for adults. Excitingly, there will be a competition highlighting the most exquisite folkloric costume for children, along with a captivating artistic concert by the Syrian folkloric band Takat.

On the third day of the Ajman Folklore Festival, there will be a captivating folk-dance showcase featuring multiple international groups, including Circassian, Chinese, Indian, Korean, Turkish, and others. Additionally, there will be an exhibition of international folklore costumes. The festival will also welcome Uzbek artist Azam Shek and announce the winners of a competition for the most beautiful international or Arab heritage painting.

Furthermore, a Chinese teaching workshop will be held as part of the day's activities. - TradeArabia News Service
JAKARTA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Marapi volcano in Indonesia's West Sumatra province erupted for about 54 seconds on Wednesday, throwing ash up to 1,500 meters above its peak, according to the country's Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation.

"Ash column was observed to be gray with thick intensity toward the west," said Ahmad Rifandi, an officer at the volcano's monitoring post.

The center called on visitors to avoid any activities within the 4.5-km radius from the eruption center, and warned of the potential for cold lava flowing into rivers upstream from the peak in case of intense rain.

Standing as high as around 2,900 meters above sea level, Marapi volcano is currently at the third level of danger, below the highest level of IV.

In December last year, the volcano erupted, killing dozens of hikers and causing cancellation of flights at the local airport. 
Handout photo from the Vatican showing Pope Francis meeting with Palestinian Bassam Aramin and Israeli Rami Elhanan, who both lost their daughters to violence in the Middle East (Handout)

Pope Francis offered his solidarity Wednesday to Catholics in Israel and the Palestinian territories ahead of Easter, after meeting Jewish and Muslim bereaved fathers campaigning for peace.

"You are not alone," the 87-year-old pontiff wrote in a letter ahead of the holiest weekend in the Christian calendar, when believers mark the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as the Hamas-Israel war continues to rage.

"I embrace all of you, in the variety of your rites... (particularly) those most affected by the senseless tragedy of war -- the children robbed of their future, those who grieve and are in pain, and all who find themselves prey to anguish and dismay.

"In these bleak times... you are lamps shining in the night," he said, adding that "soon we hope to return among you as pilgrims, to draw near to you, to embrace you".

Earlier Wednesday, before his weekly audience at the Vatican, the pontiff met with two fathers of children killed during past violence in the region, who are now campaigning together for peace.

Bassam Aramin, a Palestinian from Jericho in the West Bank, saw his 10-year-old daughter Abir die outside her school after she was shot by an Israeli soldier in 2007.

Rami Elhanan, an Israeli, lost his teenage daughter Smadar in a Hamas suicide attack in Jerusalem in 1997.

The two fathers "do not look at the enmity of war", Francis said at the audience.

Instead, they believe in "the friendship of two men who care about each other and have experienced the same crucifixion".

Speaking to reporters after meeting the pope, Elhanan said Francis had been "deeply touched" by their story of campaigning for peace together.

He said the pontiff noted that he was Christian, Elhanan was Jewish and Aramin was Muslim, but emphasised "we are all humans. And we can be brothers instead of going and killing each other".

The most recent conflict broke out when Hamas launched its unprecedented October 7 attack that resulted in about 1,160 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures, and the taking of about 250 hostages.

Israel responded with a campaign against Gaza that has killed more than 32,000 people, most of them women and children, according to the health ministry.

cmk-ar/ams/jj
BALTIMORE  Vessel traffic was suspended in and out of the Port of Baltimore, one of the nations busiest ports, after a container ship struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge and it collapsed early Tuesday morning, sending several cars into the Patapsco River.

State transportation officials gave no estimate on when the port might reopen to vessels or the immediate impact on shipping. Officials, who spoke amid a continuing and massive search and rescue mission, said the port was not shut down and remained open to process trucks inside terminals.

Vessel traffic into and out of the port of Baltimore is suspended until further notice, but the port is still open for truck transactions, said Paul Wiedefeld, Marylands secretary of transportation, during a news conference.

The vessel suspension likely will have wide-reaching and potentially harmful ripple effects, disrupting shipping and supply chains not only locally but nationally and internationally. The port is one of only three on the East Coast that can accommodate some of the largest ships in the world.

Baltimores port takes in roughly 2.5% of inbound containers that enter the U.S., said John D. McCown, a senior fellow at the Center for Maritime Strategy in Arlington, Virginia. Some of the cargo bound for Baltimore likely will end up at inland points at a port of call closest to the ultimate destination, depending on where the cargo is coming from, he said.

Im sure the carriers and their customers are trying to figure out, for ships that are still moving, where they offload that, McCown said. Thats going to cause some difficulty in some cases.

Ports along the East Coast  which has more container capacity than the West Coast  would be likely candidates. Those include cities such as Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; and Philadelphia, he said. Baltimore has a high market share of shipments of autos and roll-on, roll-off machinery.

With shippers and carriers, the biggest issue is the uncertainty in terms of timing, he said. What shippers really want for the most part is definition. In the next few days youll have people making decisions. Theyre not going to want to sit around and kind of wait because the cargos got to keep moving.

Baltimores port, which generates more than 15,300 direct jobs, had rebounded from global supply chain difficulties and disruptions during the coronavirus pandemic and hit records last year for handling cargo. It is the nations 16th busiest port, ranking first for volume of autos and light trucks, roll-on/roll-off heavy farm and construction machinery, imported sugar and imported gypsum. The ports main container terminal, Seagirt, is operated by Ports America and located off Broening Highway.

With a suspension lasting an unknown period, thats a big issue for Baltimore  thats 100% of their business, and theres no alternative to that, McCown said. Unfortunately, until its back and operating, its not going to get any of that business back.

With the shipping channel closed, the port stands to lose an estimated $15 million per day in economic activity, said Daraius Irani, chief economist at the Regional Economic Studies Institute at Towson University. Irani based the current estimates, which include a $1.5 million loss per day in state and local taxes, on an earlier state Department of Transportation report.

Scott Cowan, president of the International Longshoremens Association Local 333 in the Port of Baltimore, said the halting of ships in and out of the port will be catastrophic for the thousands employed there.

Until the shipping channel gets opened, theres not gonna be any ship traffic, theres not gonna be any ships, theres not gonna be any work for the people, Cowan said.

Last year, both state-owned public marine terminals and private terminals handled a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo worth $80 billion.

Its location makes it the closest Atlantic port to major Midwestern manufacturing centers and an overnight drive to one-third of all U.S. households, according to the ports website.

Louis Campion, president and CEO of the Maryland Motor Truck Association, said hes concerned about impact on the port and access to places such as Fairfield.

Campion raised concerns about traffic congestion, particularly because deliveries such as hazardous material loads cannot travel through Interstate 895 or I-95 tunnels. He also questioned how long fuel will be available at terminals to process deliveries over the next few days.

But he said its still premature to discuss the effects of the bridges collapse. He said he is in touch with various administrative agencies to see how and when we can talk about alternative routing for deliveries.

Were really still trying to assess it, Campion said.

Cowan said none of the 2,400 workers he represents at the port were injured or missing, to the best of his knowledge. He said he was alerted to the bridge collapse by calls from his members around 2 a.m.

But the days ahead look dark.

Workers get hired on a daily basis, Cowan said, and work will dry up the moment the cargo already in the terminal is processed.

Cowan said hes in touch with the state and the port director and trying to get a timeline on when the shipping channel will reopen.

Challenges are likely ahead for businesses at Tradepoint Atlantic, the sprawling logistics and distribution hub on the former site of Bethlehem Steel in Sparrows Point where tenants rely on the port and highway network. The projects developers are planning a new $1 billion container terminal and had said they expect to break ground by the end of next year. Tradepoint is home to 50 tenants, among them Amazon, Under Armour, FedEx, BMW, Volkswagen and McCormick & Co.

For nearly 50 years, the bridge has served as a vital artery of transportation and logistics, not only for the Baltimore region, but for the entire East Coast of America, Tradepoint officials said in an emailed statement. As part of the Port of Baltimore, we are committed to helping our state and local partners and the entire port community recover and rebuild from this tragedy.

Amazon was evaluating the immediate and future impact of the bridge collapse on employees, delivery partners and the community around its warehouses and will make any adjustments to our operations that are needed, said Richard Rocha, a spokesperson.

The Dali, a 948-foot, Singapore-flagged cargo ship, collided with a bridge support, causing much of the 46-year-old bridge to collapse. The vessel had been traveling about 8 knots (about 9 mph) and was being guided through the port by a local pilot as required by state law.

The Dali, operated by charter vessel company Synergy Group, was carrying Maersk customers cargo. No Maersk crew or personnel were on board.

Maersk, a Danish shipping and logistics company, omitted Baltimore on all its services for the foreseeable future, until passage is deemed safe, due to the damage to the bridge and resulting debris.

The shipper said it planned to discharge cargo already on the water in nearby ports, then use land transportation to reach final destinations. Maersk warned that cargo set to discharge in Baltimore could face delays while being rerouted.

Vehicle traffic has been rerouted from the 1.6-mile-long steel bridge, which is part of Interstate 695, a major thoroughfare and one of Baltimores three toll crossings. The bridge carried more than 12.4 million commercial and passenger vehicles in 2023  roughly 34,000 a day  according to a November report.

Two construction workers who were repairing potholes on the bridge at the time  one of whom was hospitalized  were rescued, Wiedefeld said. Six other workers were presumed dead Tuesday evening, said Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders.

The Maryland Chamber of Commerce urged businesses and residents to be patient and adjust daily routines and operations, likely for the long term, to prepare for a monumental task ahead to recover from this tragedy and restore this vital transportation link.

While the focus remains on the human impacts, the Francis Scott Key Bridge is a critical transportation artery for our state, the group said. Its extended closure will inevitably disrupt commercial activities and supply chains.

Besides handling commercial cargo, the port offers year-round cruising to destinations such as the Bahamas, Bermuda and New England through companies such as Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International.

Carnival will be temporarily moving its cruise operations for the Carnival Legend to Norfolk, Virginia.

Our thoughts remain with the impacted families and first responders in Baltimore, said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. We appreciate the pledge made by President Biden today to dedicate all available resources to reopen Baltimore Harbor to marine traffic as soon as possible. As those plans are finalized, we will update our future cruise guests on when we will return home to Baltimore, but in the meantime, we appreciate the quick response and support from officials in Norfolk.

The port logistics team for Royal Caribbean is working on alternatives for the Vision of the Seas ongoing and upcoming sailings, a spokesperson said in an email. Customers will be notified once plans are finalized, the email said.

Macinzie McFarland, senior manager of strategic communications and public affairs for the Cruise Lines International Association, said the group is following the situation.

McFarland said that based on published 2024 itineraries, cruise activity at the Port of Baltimore  the 29th largest cruise port in the U.S.  includes 12 ships making 115 ship calls for the 2024 calendar year. McFarland said any adjustment to cruise activity at the Port of Baltimore, which has 378,000 scheduled passenger movements, will be announced by individual cruise lines.

Right now, the most important thing to do is to allow the emergency workers to do their work, McFarland said.

_____

_____
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The City of Portland is in the process of updating its odor code after a Vietnamese restaurant was forced to shut down from smell complaints.

Portland Commissioner Carmen Rubio, who previously put a pause on the enforcement of odor regulations for food establishments, announced Wednesday that her office would be updating the smell code through the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability.

I am very concerned and am raising serious questions about the negative impacts of this policy, Commissioner Rubio said. After my staff met with the impacted business owner, it became clear that the Citys regulation and enforcement of odor issues is outdated and needs a more fair, practical, and equitable approach. My goal is to see the code changes happen as soon as possible.

6 earthquakes hit Oregon Coast, one moderate in magnitude

The Northeast Portland restaurant, Pho Gabo, is one of three restaurants in the Portland metro area owned and operated by Eddie Dong.

Dong told KOIN 6 News that while hes encouraged by the steps to pause the policy, he cant reopen without an assurance he would not have to close again in the future.

Without the protection of security that I could go back to work without threat of fine to reopen in the future, it would be too risky to me and cost too much to me to reopen as of right now, Dong said.

Portland Water Bureau follows up with family who received $17k water bill

A sign posted on Pho Gabos front door at Northeast Fremont Street and 73rd Avenue said the business needed to be shut down because of the citys and the neighborhoods complaints about the smell of the food that we grill and the foods that we serve customers.

The restaurant owner said hes thankful to members of the community who have stepped up to create a GoFundMe to help him recoup some financial losses since the closure. And Dong said hes also grateful to people supporting him by coming to his other two restaurants in Hillsboro and Happy Valley.

Earlier this month, five Vietnamese-American Oregon representatives co-signed a letter calling the restaurants closure a dangerous precedent and urged Portland to update its code.

Stabbing suspect in custody after hours-long NE Portland standoff

The Oregon Restaurants and Lodging Association Director of Government Affairs Greg Astley told KOIN 6 News last month that the issue stems from the odor code enforcement relying heavily on a subjective standard in which a violation can arise if an inspector detects an odor.

In Rubios announcement about her plans to revise the code, she explained these smell complaints escalated to the point that it would have cost the business $50,000 to alleviate the impact of the odor, which wasnt feasible for the owner.

The Bureau of Development Service staff are currently analyzing the odor code and its history as part of the legislative process. After that, a recommendation from Rubios office would be formally submitted for evaluation to the Planning Commission and then to the Portland City Council for final approval.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Authorities have publicly identified the Portland teenager who was shot to death in the Montavilla neighborhood on Monday afternoon.

Portland police identified the man as Jamirion Smith-Belhumeur, who was shot near NE 93rd and Glisan around 4:25 p.m. on Monday. Officials said the 18-year-old was gravely wounded by the time officers arrived. Despite their emergency efforts, he died at the scene.

His death was ruled a homicide by gunshots.

The investigation remains active and ongoing, and the Portland Police Bureau said no further information is available at this time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PPB.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
WESTMONT, Ill.  Pre-trial release has been denied for a man accused of breaking into a womans home in the western suburbs and stealing her car from the garage late Monday night.

According to the DuPage County States Attorney Robert Berlin, 23-year-old Bryce Fleming, who authorities say is unhoused, has been charged with one count of residential burglary and one count of possession of a stolen motor vehicle.

FBI offering $1,000 reward for information on Chicago bank robbery string

The charges stem from a break-in that allegedly unfolded just before midnight on Monday at a home in Westmont.

23-year-old Bryce Fleming has been charged with one count of residential burglary and one count of possession of a stolen motor vehicle in connection with a break-in at a home in Westmont.

According to Berlin, Westmont police responded to reports of a disturbance at a home along Naperville Road just after 11:45 p.m.

After officers arrived on the scene, a woman who lives inside the home told police that she was alone in her bedroom when she heard a noise in the kitchen.

Police say she went to investigate the sounds and found that the back door of her home was open and her purse had been ransacked. Authorities say she also found that her car, a 2022 Hyundai Tuscon, was missing from the garage.

Court-docs: Chicago-area vet accused of distributing child porn, planned to sexually assault unborn child

According to police, following an investigation, it was determined that Fleming had allegedly managed to manipulate a windowpane on the back door, which then allowed him to unlock the door and enter the home.

Fleming then allegedly stole the victims debit and credit cards from her purse and then took her car keys and garage door opener from a bowl in the living room, police said.

Authorities say Fleming then allegedly opened the garage door and stole the womans car.

Hinsdale police later caught up with Fleming after an officer spotted the stolen vehicle on Burlington Avenue.

Chicago man arrested in connection with West Side kidnapping, sexual assault

Authorities initiated a traffic stop and took Fleming into custody.

Violating the safety and security that a home provides to us all can not only have a devastating effect on the victim but can also have a crippling effect on the entire community as residents worry that they may be next, Berlin said in a news release.

On Tuesday, Judge Joshua Dieden granted the states motion to detain Fleming pre-trial.

Fleming is set to appear in court for arraignment on April 22.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  A city-wide tornado drill is underway, scheduled for next week across Abilene.

The City of Abilene encourages residents to make a plan in the event of a tornado, sign up for emergency notifications, and participate in the drill on Wednesday, April 3.

Spring cold front brings winter-like conditions across the Big Country

Courtesy: City of Abilene

To sign up for notifications, you can text ABITAYTX to 99411 or follow this link to sign up for the citys warning system, CodeRED.

You may also check in with the NWS Abilene-San Angelo Facebook page, and of course KTAB/KRBC meteorologists and weather alerts. Another option is to purchase an NOAA All-Hazards Radio.

Check in with KTAB/KRBCs Interactive Radar

The city-wide tornado drill will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 3 via a mock tornado warning through CodeRED.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic issued a grim statement about an unspecified threat to his country in a social media post on Tuesday, raising alarm bells about a possible geopolitical conflict.

Difficult days are ahead of Serbia, he said in a Facebook post. At this moment, it is not easy to say what kind of news we have received in the last 48 hours, [but] they directly threaten our vital national interests, both of Serbia and [Republika] Srpska, he added, referring to the ethnically Serb Republika Srpska.

He vaguely alluded to Serbia fighting and winning in a difficult challenge ahead.

In the coming days, I will introduce the people of Serbia to all the challenges that lie ahead. It will be difficult, he said. We will fight. Serbia will win.

Vucic has not offered clarification about his warning, but the mysterious reference comes months after Serb gunmen stormed a village in northern Kosovo in an attack that left four people dead. The raid, which took place in September last year, had coincided with what the White House described at the time as an unprecedented build-up of Serb troops along the border with Kosovo.

A New Threat of War in Europe Has Putins Fingerprints All Over It

The incidents had raised concerns that Belgradewhich does not recognize Kosovois interested in escalating its conflict with the Balkan country, which declared its independence from Serbia in 2008.

Kosovos ambassador to the U.S. previously told The Daily Beast of his concern that Serbia seeks to instigate violence and destabilize the region, with Russia fanning the flames behind the scenes to prevent Balkan integration with the West.

Although Serbia announced it was pulling back its troops from the border last year, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti shared a video on social media in recent days purportedly showing Serbian military units meters away from Kosovos border.

We are closely monitoring the situation for any attempt to cross into [our] territory, Kurti said.

A top U.S. official warned Serbia against any military actions last week.

President Vucic knows well that any use of force against Kosovo would be unacceptable, would be regarded as putting in danger the NATO troops, Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Jim OBrien told reporters in a briefing.

Vucics vague warning to Serbians comes after a UN High Representative announced changes to the electoral process in Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this week. The announcement was blasted as inappropriate by Milorad Dodik, the leader of Republika Srpska, a self-proclaimed Serb republic in Bosnia.

If you go after that, then we must take measures, and we have said what measures we will take, Dodik, who has previously called for a unification with Serbia as part of an effort to unite ethnic Serbs, reportedly said.

Dodik met with Vucic on Wednesday, ostensibly to discuss an Easter celebration. Vucic said that by Orthodox Easter, we will prepare a number of important and beneficial decisions for our people.

Its not clear what impact any of Vucics statements will have for Bosnia and Herzegovina, though. Vucic thinks of Dodik as a liability, a U.S. official told The Daily Beast.

In a report released just last month, the U.S. intelligence community assessed that Dodiks threats about secession could lead to violent conflicts.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday said the mainland is closely following Taiwan military's movements in Kinmen.

Any provocative move Taiwan military takes is doomed to fail, said Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office. 
LOS ANGELES - Prince Harry has been named in a lawsuit against Sean "Diddy" Combs officially accusing the rap mogul of sexual assault.

The civil lawsuit was filed in a New York federal district court last month by music producer Rodney "Lil Rod" Jones Jr. In a complaint Monday, Jones added actor Cuba Gooding Jr. to the new version of the suit.

According to court documents, Jones claimed that guests were lured to Combs alleged sex trafficking parties due to his "access to celebrities" along with "international dignitaries like British royal Prince Harry", as it gave him "legitimacy."

The Duke of Sussex is not accused of any wrongdoing.

RELATED COVERAGE:

The prince allegedly first met Combs in 2007 at an after-party for the "Concert for Diana" benefit at Wembley Stadium. Combs had performed "Ill Be Missing You" at the charity event, which was held in honor of the princess late mother, Princess Diana.

Harry and Diddy posed for a photo with Kanye West at the time, but it's unclear if the two were ever in contact after that event.

Prince Harry poses for a photograph with P Diddy and Kanye West at the after concert party the Princes hosted on July 1, 2007 in London, England. (Photo by POOL/ Tim Graham Picture Library/Getty Images)

On Monday, FOX 11 first broke the bombshell news that Diddy's homes in Los Angeles and Miami were searched by federal agents with Homeland Security Investigators and other law enforcement. Officials said the searches were connected to an investigation by federal authorities in New York.

In response, Diddy's lawyer, Aaron Dyer, has released the following statement:

"Yesterday, there was a gross overuse of military-level force as search warrants were executed at Mr. Combs residences. There is no excuse for the excessive show of force and hostility exhibited by authorities or the way his children and employees were treated. Mr. Combs was never detained but spoke to and cooperated with authorities. Despite media speculation, neither Mr. Combs nor any of his family members have been arrested nor has their ability to travel been restricted in any way. This unprecedented ambush -- paired with an advanced, coordinated media presence -- leads to a premature rush to judgment of Mr. Combs and is nothing more than a witch hunt based on meritless accusations made in civil lawsuits. There has been no finding of criminal or civil liability with any of these allegations. Mr. Combs is innocent and will continue to fight every single day to clear his name."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.






Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales, is the latest in an increasing trend of younger people getting cancer (HENRY NICHOLLS)

When Catherine, Princess of Wales, revealed she was being treated for cancer last week, part of the shock was that an otherwise healthy 42-year-old has a disease that mostly plagues older people.

However, researchers have been increasingly sounding the alarm that more and more people under 50 are getting cancer -- and no one knows why.

Across the world, the rate of under-50s diagnosed with 29 common cancers surged by nearly 80 percent between 1990 and 2019, a large study in BMJ Oncology found last year.

The researchers predicted the number of new cancer cases among younger adults will rise another 30 percent by the end of this decade, with wealthy countries particularly affected.

The increase in cases -- and soaring global population -- means that the number of deaths among under 50s from cancer has risen by nearly 28 percent over the last 30 years.

This occurred even as the odds of people of all ages surviving cancer have roughly doubled over the last half century.

Shivan Sivakumar, a cancer researcher at the UK's University of Birmingham, called it an "epidemic" of young adult cancer.

Since Kate Middleton revealed on Friday that her cancer was discovered after she received abdominal surgery earlier this year, Sivakumar and other doctors have spoken out about the uptick in younger cancer patients they have been seeing at their clinics.

While breast cancer remains the most common for people under 50, the researchers expressed particular concern about the rise of gastrointestinal cancers -- such as of the colon, pancreas, liver and oesophagus -- in younger adults.

Colon cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths in men under 50 in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. For women, it is number two -- behind only breast cancer.

One high profile case of colorectal cancer was "Black Panther" actor Chadwick Boseman, who died at the age of 43 in 2020.

- Why is this happening? -

"We just don't have the evidence yet" to say exactly what is causing this rise, Sivakumar told AFP, adding it was likely a combination of factors.

Helen Coleman, a cancer epidemiology professor at Queen's University Belfast who has studied early onset cancer in Northern Ireland, told AFP there were two potential explanations.

One is that people in their 40s were exposed to factors known to cause cancer -- such tobacco smoke, alcohol or being obese -- at an earlier age than previous generations.

She pointed out that the "obesity epidemic" did not start until the 1980s.

Sivakumar felt that at least part of the puzzle could be explained by obesity.

However, there is "another wave" of under-50 patients who are neither obese nor genetically predisposed still getting cancer, he emphasised, adding that this could not be put down to "statistical chance".

The other theory, Coleman said, is that "something different" has been going on with her generation.

Fingers have been pointed out a range of possible culprits -- including chemicals, new drugs and microplastics -- but none have been proven.

Some have suggested that so-called ultra-processed foods could be to blame. "But there's very little data to back any of that up," Coleman said.

Another theory is that the food we eat could be changing our gut microbiome.

While there is nothing conclusive yet, Coleman said her own research suggested that cancer causes changes to the microbiome, not the other way around.

Anti-vaxx conspiracy theorists have even tried to blame Covid-19 vaccines.

This is easily disproven, because the rise in young adult cancer has taken place over decades, but the vaccines have only been around for a few years.

- What can be done? -

To address the rise in younger colorectal cancer, in 2021 the US lowered the recommended age for screening to 45. Other countries have yet to follow suit.

But the researchers hoped that Catherine's experience would remind people at home that they should consult their doctor if they sense anything is wrong.

"People know their bodies really well," Sivakumar said.

"If you really feel that something isn't right, don't delay -- just get yourself checked out."

dl/rlp
Demetria Murphy is an activist, social worker, therapist, hairdresser and mother to a 9-year-old daughter. She's also a convicted felon.

On Thursday in her Old Wilmington Road home, she said that beginning in 1998, she spent about a decade in and out of federal prison on drug and weapon charges.

And since she returned from prison to her hometown of Fayetteville about 15 years ago, she said she's put in the work to get an education and start a career  and help others who have served time to do the same.

"Change is possible," she said.

Research has found that formerly incarcerated people experience unemployment at a much higher rate than the general population. Nationally, about 27% of those who served time in prison struggle with unemployment upon their release, according to a 2018 study from the nonprofit Prison Policy Initiative, a criminal justice public policy think tank. The percentage is greater than the total U.S. unemployment has ever been, the study notes.

According to a 2022 report from North Carolina State University's Institute for Emerging Issues, 43.6% of Black women who've served time in prison or jail face unemployment  much higher than the rate white men in the same position face, at 18.4%.

Demetria Murphys many degrees and certificates hang from the wall of her home office.

Murphy said looking for employment with a criminal record is a struggle she knows firsthand, and that's why she's hosting two events next month to help felons find jobs.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 5 at Fayetteville Technical Community College, Murphy holds a career readiness event where formerly incarcerated jobseekers can get help with resumes and interviewing skills. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 12 at Seabrook Recreation Center, Murphy hosts a job fair for attendees to meet second-chance employers and apply for jobs, sign up for free and discounted health insurance and get help reinstating state IDs and driver's licenses. Jobseekers can register online. Call 910-568-7359 or email admin@devineintherapy.com for more information.

Dismissal of prison work experience and background checks are barriers to work for felons

Murphy, who serves as a community liaison for the Fayetteville Cumberland Reentry Council, a nonprofit that assists people returning from home from incarceration, said the job fair is one of many efforts she hopes will help remove barriers to employment for people with criminal records.

One of those barriers is to educate employers on the value of the work experience that formerly incarcerated people can gain while in custody.

'I know what it's like to be overlooked' Fayetteville woman lends a helping hand to homeless

Murphy said the skills she obtained in prison like masonry, carpentry and painting were overlooked when she returned to civilian life.

I can operate a whole factory, from the front to the back, she said. "And guess where I acquired every skill at? In prison."

She said some formerly incarcerated people dont know how to show employers the value their prison work experience holds and that is something she plans to highlight at the career readiness event next month.

Another barrier to employment for felons is background checks, Murphy said. She said many employers conflate a prison release date with the conviction date.

I have not been in trouble for over 20 years, Murphy said. Im still paying for it.

Hells Kitchen: How did Fort Liberty spouse do?

Regardless, Murphy said, she plans to continue her reentry work locally and hopes to bring it to the state level. Thus far, she said, she's gotten a positive response from community leaders and formerly incarcerated people in the city.

On Thursday, she tearfully looked over old photos of her and her prison mates, who became close friends, some of whom are still serving time. She said that they keep her motivated to keep pushing forward.

I do this because they gotta come home, she said.

Food, dining and culture reporter Taylor Shook can be reached at tshook@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Fayetteville, NC, activist helps felons find jobs with second-chance employers
The set-up has seen heated complaints about firms that carry out a poor service or charge excessive fees - Steve Parkins/Shutterstock

A ban on so-called fleeceholds, where people buy houses only to be charged exorbitant fees for regular council services, has been backed by 46 Conservative MPs.

The group of Tories has written to Michael Gove, the Communities Secretary, suggesting the newly emerging phenomenon be outlawed in the Leasehold Bill.

The signatories include two former communities secretaries, Sir Simon Clarke and Robert Jenrick, and two former housing ministers, Kit Malthouse and Rachel Maclean.

The number of Tory MPs behind the push is significant, since it means in theory the group has enough support to force defeat on the Government if the change is not adopted.

Little ability to challenge service

The problem the MPs have singled out is one that has come to light in recent years and is only beginning to be appreciated by politicians as an issue that needs addressing.

It refers to new private housing estates which are not adopted by local councils, meaning companies instead are contracted to carry out services such as cleaning bins.

However, the set-up has seen heated complaints about firms that carry out a poor service, for example leaving dog waste bins piled high, or that charge exorbitant fees.

There is often little ability to challenge the quality of service, since the contracts have been arranged by the developer and individual homeowners have limited power to contest issues.

Three to four million affected

It has seen MPs dub the problem fleecehold, since, they argue, it affects people who believed they had purchased property on freehold but are still being fleeced.

Between three and four million people are estimated to be stuck in such arrangements.

Tory MPs believe many of those affected are natural Conservative voters given that traditionally homeowners fall into this category.

The Competition and Markets Authority recently estimated that over the last five years, 80 per cent of the freehold properties built by the 11 largest housebuilders  representing around two fifths of all new builds across England, Scotland and Wales  have been built on this model.

Legislation to be debated

The Tory MPs pushing for the change want the Government to table an amendment banning the practice. The relevant legislation is being debated in the House of Lords on Wednesday.

Their letter, shared with The Telegraph, reads: The Government is to be commended for taking forward the first comprehensive reform of leasehold for 20 years.

The Commons debates on the Leasehold Bill have demonstrated the problems with the unadopted, private estates model, also known as fleecehold.

As the Bill makes its way through its remaining stages, we call on the Government to go further to empower residents on existing fleecehold estates, and to end this model for new estates.

No prouder word than freeholder

Government should also address the unfair system of forfeiture, under which people can be threatened with the loss of their home over non-payment of small sums.

Mrs Thatcher said, There is no prouder word in our history than freeholder  we should now complete her reforms and fully implement our manifesto pledge to ban the sale of all new leasehold homes.

Mr Gove is yet to indicate publicly that he is supportive of such a change.

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.
Prosecutors in Boone County filed notice on Wednesday that they are no longer pursuing the death penalty against John Gentry, 37, who's accused of fatally shooting his ex-girlfriend in front of their two children.

A Crestview Hills man accused of gunning down his ex-girlfriend in front of their two children is no longer facing the possibility of death row.

Prosecutors filed notice in Boone County Circuit Court on Wednesday afternoon that they are dropping the death penalty in the case against John Gentry.

Gentry, 37, is facing charges including murder, assault, violation of a domestic violence order, stalking, fleeing or evading police, wanton endangerment and robbery.

Investigators say Gentry fatally shot 32-year-old Tiffany Kidwell after tailing her to her sisters house in Walton and confronting Kidwell about seeing his children.

Assistant Boone County Commonwealths Attorney Jason Hiltz said the decision to drop the death penalty was made after consulting with Kidwells family.

In exchange for taking death off the table, the couples children wont be called to testify at trial, which is currently scheduled to begin in July.

The parties also agreed not to hold a hearing where evidence was to be presented about whether Gentrys trial should be moved to another county due to alleged widespread racial bias in the community.

Of the nearly 900 comments to a sheriffs office Facebook post announcing Gentrys arrest, there were numerous responses saying police should have summarily executed him, including references to the May 2020 killing of George Floyd, according to documents filed by Gentrys lawyers.

While the sheriffs office post has since been removed from social media, Gentrys lawyers said it was visible to the roughly 37,000 accounts following the sheriffs office and the followers of those who commented.

His attorneys point to those comments as evidence that Gentry, a Black man accused of killing a white woman, won't get a fair trial in predominantly white Boone County.

While prosecutors agree those who made offensive comments online shouldnt sit on the jury, they said theres no evidence those people live in Boone County nor that their comments have influenced potential jurors.

Judge Richard Brueggemann is expected to rule on that issue by May 31 in response to written briefs from prosecutors and Gentrys attorneys.

Kidwell had an active domestic violence protection order against Gentry and tried to call 911 when Gentry allegedly shot her with a handgun.

When deputies reached the home a short time later, Kidwell was found dead inside her vehicle parked in the driveway.

Gentry later told detectives that he shot Kidwell until it was quiet, believing hed emptied the guns magazine, according to a criminal citation. Prosecutors said an autopsy showed she suffered a total of 10 gunshot wounds.

Also shot was Gentrys then-3-year-old son, who was sitting in the backseat of his mothers vehicle. The child was struck in the abdomen and flown to Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center, where he underwent surgery.

Prosecutors in Boone County filed notice on Wednesday that they are no longer pursuing the death penalty against John Gentry, 37, who's accused of fatally shooting his ex-girlfriend in front of their two children.

The couples then-6-year-old son was also present for his mother's killing but was unharmed. Prosecutors say the boy went running inside to look for help as his mother was shot to death.

Gentry told detectives that he drove away but swiftly abandoned his vehicle when he saw police lights and fled into the woods on foot, the citation says. He allegedly approached a stopped SUV and ordered the two occupants out of the vehicle.

During that confrontation, Gentry told detectives, he aimed his gun at the driver-side window and it went off, shattering the glass and striking a man sitting inside, the citation says.

Investigators said Gentry was operating the stolen SUV when it was spotted driving recklessly, forcing an officer to veer off the road to avoid a crash, before he was stopped at Grand National Boulevard and Richwood Road.

Prosecutors signaled their intent in January 2022 to pursue the death penalty against Gentry, citing the alleged killing of Kidwell while she had a domestic violence order in place as aggravating circumstances.

If convicted, Gentry still faces possible sentences of life without parole or 25 years to life in prison.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: John Gentry no longer facing death penalty in killing of kids' mother
PROSPECT HEIGHTS, Ill.  Police in Prospect Heights are asking for help identifying two people involved in a gang-related shooting on Thursday.

The shooting happened around 8:30 p.m. in the 600 block of North Milwaukee Avenue at the Palwaukee Plaza.

Read more: Latest Chicago news headline

Police said officers found several frightened people in the back of a store after two people approached it and fired about 15 bullets.

According to a news release, police said the two people were shooting at two people who were standing in front of the store.

Anyone who has any information is asked to call police at 847-398-5511.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Public satisfaction with the NHS has dropped again, setting a new low recorded by the long-running British Social Attitudes survey.

Just 24% said they were satisfied with the NHS in 2023, with waiting times and staff shortages the biggest concerns.

That is five percentage points down on last year and a drop from the 2010 high of 70% satisfaction.

The poll - the gold-standard measure of the public's view of the health service - has been running since 1983.

More than 3,000 people were polled by the National Centre for Social Research across England, Wales and Scotland in the autumn.

The findings on the NHS, published by the Nuffield Trust and King's Fund think tanks, show once again that performance has deteriorated after a new record low was seen last year.

In total, since 2020, satisfaction has fallen by 29 percentage points.

Of the core services, the public was least satisfied with A&E and dentistry.

Chart showing satisfaction levels with NHS

The survey also showed satisfaction with social care had fallen to 13% - again the lowest since the survey began.

The major reasons for dissatisfaction were long waiting times, staffing shortages and lack of funding.

When asked about government choices on tax and spending on the NHS, 48% backed increasing taxes and spending more on the NHS, but 42% preferred to keep taxes and spending the same and 6% backed reducing taxes and spending less.

Those with the highest incomes were more likely to want to increase taxes and spend more.

'I feel let down'

Samuel Wilson

Samuel Wilson, 45, who lives in Worthing, West Sussex, has been left unable to work due to mobility and pain problems following two hip replacements.

He is now awaiting further treatment. "I can't walk very far without excruciating pain," he says.

"I feel let down. The NHS is there to help you, not make things worse. I feel they have treated me disdainfully. The nurses are polite, I've found, and even my surgeon.

"But they are not providing the level of care required. And they know they are not providing the level of care required but trying to deal with them is like banging your head against a brick wall."

Rory Deighton, the NHS Confederation's acute network director, said the figures "reflect exactly how people are feeling".

"Times are tough, it's hard for staff and I think people recognise that," he told BBC's Breakfast programme. "We've had a really hard year."

He said the focus for NHS leaders in the next 12 to 24 months would be on improving GP and dental access, and cutting waiting lists.

As well as calling for increased spending on hospitals, GP surgeries and social care, Mr Deighton said there was a "really strong link" between industrial action and the size of waiting lists for elective treatments.

Junior doctors in England have staged 10 walkouts since March last year in a row over pay and recently voted to continue strike action.

Jessica Morris, from the Nuffield Trust, said the findings were worrying.

"As we approach a general election, political parties should be frank and realistic about the challenges ahead of them if they are to turn this situation around.

"Despite such low levels of satisfaction, the public continue to back the principles underpinning the NHS.

"The public has not fallen out of love with the idea of a publicly funded, free-at-the-point-of-use NHS, but they are losing confidence that it will support them and their loved ones in the best possible way when they need it."

Chart showing satisfaction levels with NHS

The Patients Association said it was "dismayed" by the survey results.

And Royal College of Nursing general secretary Prof Pat Cullen said: "Enough is enough".

"Voters must now make NHS and care services the central issue of the general election," she said.

"An NHS that was once a world-leader is now treating patients in corridors, doorways, and store cupboards. The status quo has become intolerable."

But a Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said progress was being made, with some signs that the waiting list was falling, while investment was being made in key areas, such as GPs.

"We are fully committed to a faster, simpler and fairer NHS, free at the point of need," he said.

A Scottish government spokesperson said other research showed people in Scotland were more satisfied with the way the NHS was run than this survey suggested.

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SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  The controversial discussion over the name of a southern Utah high school mascot has been revived after years of backlash with a public vote soon to follow.

In 2019, the Iron County School Board decided to respectfully retire Cedar High Schools controversial nickname The Redmen and Native American mascot following a recommendation made by a 24-person committee. The committee, which was made up of students, staff, alumni, community members, and tribal representatives, voted 17-7 in favor of the change. The board narrowly agreed with a vote of 3-2.

Shortly after the vote to drop the controversial name, the student body voted to replace the nickname with The Reds, symbolized by a wolf mascot.

ICSB officials said the name change has divided the county for years.

These are the 20 best places to live in Utah, study says

Since the change, groups have emerged calling for its reinstatement. Public comment periods have often been filled with requests to bring back The Redmen name. Board members Jeff Corry and Dave Staheli, both of whom are up for re-election for their current seats, have included the reinstatement of the name in their campaigns.

On Tuesday, March 26, Corry, Staheli and fellow board member Lauren Lewis petitioned for the name to be changed but the motion failed. Finally, board member Megen Ralphs successfully motioned to let the public decide as soon as legally possible.

A spokesperson for the Iron County School District told ABC4.com that district administrators are working with attorneys and the Iron County Clerk to determine whether the vote can be held on the primary ballot or will need to wait for the general election later this year.

Meanwhile, the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah has requested the board to not reinstate the controversial name.

Hot springs resort with 53 pools slated to open next year near Zion National Park

District Superintendent Dr. Lance Hatch said the school district hopes that with the support of the community, the divide can be healed and the community can move forward.

I acknowledge and recognize that some may have been harmed by the Redmen name over the years and we do not dismiss the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utahs request to not reinstate the name, said Hatch. However, I also acknowledge the harm that has been done to community members who feel a connection to the name.

Hatch said the goal is working together to be respectful to one another and ensure that students can receive the education they deserve without interruption.

ABC4 reached out to the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah for comment but has yet to hear back by the time of publication on Wednesday morning.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Puerto Rico has declared an epidemic as the number of dengue cases continues to rise.

At least 549 cases have been reported so far and more than 340 people have been hospitalized, according to the islands health department.

"As of March 21, 2024, the Department of Health's epidemiological surveillance of diseases has observed a 140% increase in dengue cases for Puerto Rico compared to the same period last year," the department said in a press release on Monday.

Here's what you need to know.

A mosquito sucks blood from its host's ankle Thursday, July 8, 2021.

What is dengue fever?

Dengue fever is a potentially deadly viral infection that comes from mosquitoes and is transmitted to humans. Typically, the virus is more common in tropical and subtropical areas. Some people that are infected with the virus wont experience symptoms at all. However, people who do have symptoms experience a high fever, headache, body aches, nausea or rash according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

In a post on X, Puerto Rico Health Secretary Carlos Mellado Lopez said he has been monitoring the outbreaks of dengue and coronavirus.

"The increase in dengue cases requires that all components of society join forces in order to prevent the contagion and spread of this virus, which is why we call for prevention" Mellado Lopez wrote in the post.

El aumento de casos de dengue requiere que todos los componentes de la sociedad aunen esfuerzos en aras de prevenir el contagio y la propagacion de este virus, por eso hacemos el llamado a la prevencion. pic.twitter.com/ugMtJrDG6D  Carlos Mellado Lopez (@prsecsalud) March 26, 2024

Jamaica's dengue outbreak

On Sept. 23, Jamaicas Ministry of Health declared a dengue outbreak after an increased number cases were reported. At the time, there were 1,060 confirmed dengue infections on the island, according to the U.S. Embassy of Jamaica.

By November, health officials reported that more than 3,100 people were infected and that nine people had died, according to the Guardian.

Jamaica's chief medical officer, Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor McKenzie, said in January that dengue remained a concern in the country and asked residents to monitor water containers for mosquitoes, destroy potential breeding sites, and wear protective clothing and mosquito repellant to help prevent the spread of the disease.

CDC issued a travel warning following dengue outbreaks in several countries

A health worker fumigates against the Aedes aegypti mosquito, a vector of the dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya viruses in Contagem, metropolitan region of Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, on Feb. 2, 2024, as the country faces a substantial increase in dengue fever cases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 1 travel warning on Feb. 28 to American travelers as they take trips outside of the country. The following countries have reported an increased number in dengue cases:

Argentina

Brazil

Colombia

Costa Rica

French Guiana

Guadeloupe

Guatemala

Haiti

Jamaica

Martinique

Mexico

Nicaragua

Panama

Paraguay

Peru

Saint Barthelemy

Saint Martin

Turks and Caicos Islands

The CDC also warns travelers to protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites.

Ahjane Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjane covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at aforbes@gannett.com . Follow her on Instagram, Threads and X @forbesfineest.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dengue fever alert: Puerto Rico declares epidemic
CANBERRA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- A youth curfew has been imposed in the largest town in central Australia following a series of violent and destructive incidents.

Eva Lawler, chief minister of the Northern Territory (NT), and NT Police Commissioner Michael Murphy on Wednesday announced that, effective immediately, residents of Alice Springs under the age of 18 will not be allowed out between the hours of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. local time for the next 14 days.

It comes in response to unrest in the town that culminated in a violent riot involving up to 150 people on Tuesday evening, sparking calls for a federal government response to crime in the region.

"The scenes yesterday in Alice Springs were horrific, unacceptable and we never want to see anything like that again in the Northern Territory," Lawler said at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon.

"I'm fed up with this level of crime and anti-social behavior. The community has had enough and so have I."

The curfew will apply to the entire central business district (CDB) of Alice Springs and an additional 58 NT Police officers will be deployed to help enforce it.

Those who are caught breaching the curfew will be taken home or to a safe space, Lawler said.

Residents and business owners were forced to take shelter on Tuesday night as a large group of people took part in disturbances, allegedly damaging property, starting fires and engaging in violent conduct.

Five males were arrested in relation to the incidents and more than 50 weapons were seized, NT Police said.

Alice Springs Mayor Matt Paterson on Wednesday morning said the chaos was a national embarrassment and called for the federal government to intervene.

Lawler rejected calls for a federal response and said her government has not lost control of Alice Springs.

Murphy told reporters that some of the violence was related to the death of an 18-year-old man in a car crash earlier in March, which he said has caused family feuds.

Alice Springs is the second-largest town in the NT and largest in Australia's outback region with a population of approximately 26,000. 
When the men accused of committing last week's terrorist attack in Moscow appeared in front of a Russian court, their battered faces told a story of physical torture.

The four men  who stand accused of opening fire on crowds at Moscow's Crocus City Hall on March 22, killing at least 140 people  all appeared in the dock heavily bruised. One defendant, Muhammadsobir Fayzov, was brought into the courtroom in a wheelchair and appeared barely conscious throughout the proceedings.

He sat in the dock, barefoot and wearing a hospital gown, attended by medics.

Evidence of torture also appeared outside the courtroom.

Read also: Russias response to terrorist attack, alleged torture of suspects, follows pattern of abuse in Ukraine

Between the group's arrest in the early hours of March 23 and their arraignment close to the evening of the following day, several videos were tacitly leaked showing the men's interrogations.

In one video, soldiers appeared to be shown electrocuting a defendant's genitals. In another, officers cut off the ear of a man who appeared to be defendant Saidakrami Rachabalizoda and forced him to eat it.

In court, Rachabalizoda arrived with his head heavily bandaged.

The use of torture by governments is not uncommon, especially in authoritarian states such as Russia.

But to see these acts on display  whether imprinted onto defendants' faces or depicted on film  sets the Crocus City Hall case apart.

It hints at the wider messages that the Russian government hopes to send to both terror groups, the Russian public, and the myth of Putin's strength and control, shattered by the attack.

Government violence and vengeance

Researchers generally give three reasons why state security services use torture.

It can be used to gain intelligence  although research has repeatedly proven that information gained through torture is notoriously unreliable. It can also be used to gain evidence, particularly in countries with weak judicial systems.

Yet while many authoritarian governments will use torture, the majority will actively try to hide its use, says Courtenay Monroe, professor of political science at the University of California, Russia's security services have made no such attempts in the Crocus City Hall case.

Read also: Russias descent into totalitarianism: How it happened

"These individuals being brought into court showing the signs of scarring torture is actually quite unique in the modern day," she says.

Part of this is due to the nature of the men's alleged crimes. Video released by the Islamic State  who claimed responsibility for the attack  shows the assailants shooting at the crowd with semi-automatic weapons at point-blank range, attacking victims with knives, and throwing Molotov cocktails.

At least 140 people were murdered, including several children.

In such a horrifying case, showing the torture of the alleged perpetrators is unlikely to provoke outrage in the court of public opinion. In fact, it could stir approval.

A Russian law enforcement officer patrols near the Crocus City Hall concert hall outside Moscow, Russia, on March 23, 2024, after the terrorist attack that killed at least 139 people. (Stringer/AFP via Getty Images)

"When you ask people if they are pro-torture, people say no," says Monroe. "But when social scientists have done careful experiments to probe public opinions, they have discovered, unfortunately, that the public is more supportive of torture if it involves particular individuals for particular reasons, such as terrorism."

But there are also other motivations.

In showing how detainees have suffered at the hands of its officers, Russia's security services likely hope to emphasize its willingness to engage in violence  a warning to both terror groups and ordinary people.

Besides the four main suspects, Russian courts arrested four more people  a man who allegedly rented an apartment to the perpetrators, and a man who allegedly sold them a car, together with his brother and father.

The latter showed up at the police station voluntarily, he said, when he saw the car he sold appear on national TV.

Dilovar Islomov, 23, stands inside the defendant cage as he waits for his pre-trial detention hearing at the Basmanny District Court in Moscow on March 25, 2024. Islomov was arrested in connection with the March 22 mass shooting at Crocus City Hall in Moscow. He allegedly sold a car to the perpetrators. (Tatyana Makeyeva / AFP via Getty Images)

In a statement released after the detainees' arraignments, Russian activist group Crew Against Torture (formally known as the Committee Against Torture, an NGO that was shut down after being labeled a "foreign agent" by the Russian government) warned that "if a state tolerates torture against terror suspects, it can also carry out unlawful violence against other citizens."

Monroe agrees.

"Oftentimes, governments engage in violence when they are trying to signal to the public or the opposition their willingness and capacity to do these acts," she says. "I think that they're certainly trying to publicize it."

This need to project strength, but also a drive for revenge, is another key reason why states such as Russia use violence, says Dr. Frank Foley, a senior lecturer in International Relations at the Department of War Studies at King's College London.

He describes it as a way to reassert dominance and to fight back against a perceived humiliation.

"The security services were embarrassed by the failings that preceded that attack, so when they came across the individuals who allegedly did it, they exacted revenge," says Dr. Foley. He drew parallels to Guantanamo Bay, where the U.S. government admitted in 2009 it had tortured inmates.

State images of the facility in 2002 showed detainees kneeling, masked, and bound: an image of suppression giving American troops the control they lacked on 9/11.

"It's a very brutal and graphic subjugation of the enemy," Foley says.

Similarly, Russia's security services, instrumental in repressing dissent in President Vladimir Putin's Russia, hope to redeem themselves in the attack's aftermath  telling the world visually that they are still very much in control.

A culture of impunity

The openness with which torture has been conducted in the Crocus City Hall attack ultimately speaks to a culture of impunity throughout Russia itself.

Torture is banned under the Russian constitution. Moscow is also a signatory of the UN Convention Against Torture. Neither of these facts have changed how detainees have been treated, although Russia's commissioner for human rights, Tatyana Moskalkova, called the use of torture "unacceptable" in a recent interview with Russian state news agency TASS.

TOPSHOT - Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting on the economic issues via a video link at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow on April 11, 2023. (Photo by Gavriil GRIGOROV / Sputnik / AFP)

The Kremlin seemingly expects no repercussions, says Foley  and past experience shows that, at least for now, they are likely to be right.

"Vladimir Putin and the Russian authorities have already been accused of all sorts of war crimes in the context of their invasion of Ukraine," he says.

"They are facing some legal difficulties because of that and some attempts to try to make them accountable, but that doesn't stop them. They obviously feel a sense of impunity: that they can do what they want, and they're not going to face consequences for that," he says.

Read also: Evidence shows recent presidential elections most rigged in Russias modern history

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It will be much harder for the Russians to attack Kharkiv now than it was in the first days of the full-scale invasion, the National Guards Special Forces Group commander 'Pamir' said on national television on March 27.

"They probably won't use any other tactics, he said.

Back then (in February 2022) they took advantage of the fact of surprise. Now they are expected. Everyone is preparing. They will not be able to come to Kharkiv Oblast just like that."

Russian strikes on Kharkiv's energy infrastructure are meant to intimidate the civilian population.

"Usually, when they fail, they try to show their strength in this way. When they lose somewhere else, they destroy the civilian population," Pamir said.

Read also: Kharkiv to end heating season ahead of schedule due to electricity shortage after Russian missile strike

Earlier on March 26, independent Russian outlet Meduza published an article about Russian dictator Vladimir Putins alleged plans to take Kharkiv.

According to the report, a source close to the Kremlin believes that Putin aims to capture Kharkiv and then conclude the so-called "Special Military Operation."

"It [would be] also a symbolic victory: a city with a million population, where many Russian-speaking people live," said one of Meduzas sources.

Read also: Russians strike civilian infrastructure in Kharkiv moments before air raid alert

While the report suggested that there has been no decision made on a large-scale offensive towards Kharkiv, it remains "quite a plausible scenario."

Responding to Russian media reports that the Kremlin aims to conquer Kharkiv, regional governor Oleh Synehubov said that the Russian military has proven itself incapable of doing so.

In a Telegram post on March 26, he said that for 761 days of the war, Russian troops have failed to capture and hold any major Ukrainian city, including Kharkiv.

Read also: Explosions rattle Sumy: Russians strike civilian infrastructure

"Neither in 2022 nor in 2023 could they defeat the indomitable people of Kharkiv, nor maintain positions in the population centers of the region," said Synehubov.

On March 26, the Third Separate Assault Brigade Deputy Commander, Maxym Zhorin, warned of the potential threat to Kharkiv and Sumy oblasts, which border Russia.



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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The Queen has been visiting a farmers' market in Shrewsbury

The Queen has been meeting traders at a farmers' market in Shrewsbury.

She was welcomed by a crowd of flag-waving well-wishers and spent time talking to some of them.

Mandy Thorn, the High Sheriff of Shropshire said she was pleased Her Majesty had been able "to shine the spotlight on our beautiful county town".

Peter Themans, from Wenlock Edge Farm spoke to her briefly and said: "Judging by the crowds the Royal Family is very popular still."

The Queen stopped to talk to a number of stallholders and Mr Themans said: "She asked what we do and how busy we are and how long we've been going and it's great and she's lovely."

Among the items given to the Queen was a message of support for the Princess of Wales

The High Sheriff of Shropshire, Mandy Thorn, said it was a "great day" for Shrewsbury

Michelle Lewnes from Telford said: "It was amazing and I actually got to shake hands with her as well."

"I love the Royal Family and to see Queen Camilla was just amazing."

Ms Thorn said the visit had been a "great day for us" and Ms Lewnes agreed.

She said: "I've got a small business myself, so it's really important that we have this royal visit here and people get to know there is a farmers' market in Shrewsbury."

The town centre was packed with people waving flags

The Queen took time to talk to a number of stall holders at the farmers' market

On the visit to the market, the Queen was given a number of gifts, including chocolates, a book and a poster which read: "Send our love to Kate."

She then signed a visitors' book before leaving to visit the town's Flaxmill Maltings building.

After visiting the stalls, the Queen spoke to people in the crowd

A number of children turned out to greet Her Majesty

Sally from Wildjac Distillery was another stallholder to meet the Queen and she said they talked about gins and wines.

She also showed Her Majesty the company's cardboard bottles, and said: "She was very pleased that we are doing our little bit for the environment."

A sign to mark the royal visit was unveiled at the Flaxmill Maltings

The Queen joined in with a spring wreath-making activity

At the Flaxmill Maltings, the Queen met local dignitaries, volunteers and charity workers.

The building was the first iron-framed building in the world and the techniques used would later pave the way for the first skyscrapers.

It has been restored by Historic England and now contains offices and meeting spaces.

On her visit, Her Majesty unveiled a plaque marking her first visit to Shropshire since the King's coronation.

The Queen was presented with a copy of the Koran on her visit

Her Majesty also met a number of local volunteers

The Queen was presented with more gifts, including a copy of the Koran, met Ukrainian refugees and representatives of a local foodbank.

Tamsin Silvey from Historic England said: "It's just brilliant to see all the charities here today and how excited they are.

"She looked like she really enjoyed herself, she spoke to so many people and just seeing them come out, they all looked so happy to have met her."

Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk

More on Shropshire royal visits

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WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW)  More than three dozen people joined in a peaceful rally in downtown Wichita Wednesday. They held signs against the bloodshed in Gaza and asked for the U.S. to send aid, not bombs.

During a peaceful rally in downtown Wichita on March 27, 2024, participants call for a ceasefire in Gaza. (KSN News Photo)

During a peaceful rally in downtown Wichita on March 27, 2024, participants call for a ceasefire in Gaza. (KSN News Photo)

During a peaceful rally in downtown Wichita on March 27, 2024, participants call for a ceasefire in Gaza. (KSN News Photo)

The group of Mennonites and Anabaptists said they were giving witness to their belief that there should be a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

House passes two-rate income tax package

They gathered outside of Senator Jerry Morans office at 100 N. Broadway.

We want to ask Senator Moran to pressure our government to end military aid to Israel and to, instead, send humanitarian aid to stop the suffering, stop the warfare and the genocidal killing that is going on there, Heidi Regier Kreider, Mennonite Western District Conference Minister, said.

She said Moran was not at the office, but one of his staff members spoke to the group.

They said that they would deliver our message to Senator Moran, and we hope that will happen. We would hope that the message gets to him, Regier Kreider said.

With Morans help, the group wants Hamas to return all hostages of the Oct. 7, 2023, attack; Israel to free its political prisoners; the Israeli government to allow food and other aid into all parts of Gaza; and the end of military aid to Israel in the face of genocide.

Major I-135 ramp in Wichita closing in April

The group held signs, prayed, gave speeches and sang during their one-hour rally.

KSN News contacted Morans office for a response. We have not heard back yet.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV.
Ramadan lights will be on display in Londons West End over the Easter Weekend.

The holy month - the most significant in the Islamic calendar - is being celebrated with lights in Oxford Street and between Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. They were switched on earlier this month by Sadiq Khan, Londons mayor, after Westminsters Labour-run council gave the go-ahead.

This year marks the second year that the Muslim celebration has been marked with illuminations in central London.

The lights are funded by the Aziz Foundation, a charity founded by Asif Aziz, a billionaire property developer whose company owns sites including the London Trocadero that occupies much of the block between Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square.

The lights - wishing a Happy Ramadan - have drawn plaudits but prompted a warning from prominent local Conservatives that the council must also support the other major faiths during important festivals.

Last week Network Rail was forced to remove an Islamic message on the departure board at London Kings Cross.

The Ramadan message on the train times board at King's Cross - Twitter

The rail operator faced criticism following its decision to display a hadith [Islamic epithet] of the day to celebrate Ramadan, as part of a diversity initiative.

Among the criticisms Humanists UK said it felt public train stations should not be urging sinners to repent, after the phrase was used in the message.

Paul Swaddle, leader of the minority Tory group on Westminster council, offered full support to the Ramadan lights but questioned why a Ramadan display in the window of Westminsters city hall offices had not yet been replaced by an Easter one in time for this weekend.

Mr Swaddle said: The thing I would question is this: there has been a Ramadan celebration in the window of Westminster city hall. But I just wonder if the Easter one is going up very soon? Easter is one of the most important Christian festivals of the year but what are they [the Labour council] doing to celebrate it? I am not aware they are. I suspect the window display is not going to change.

The period of Ramadan occurs at a different time every year because the Islamic calendar is aligned with the Moon. Easter falls within the month of Ramadan this year, as it did in 2023 and 2022. However up to 30 years can pass between the two coinciding.

Pro-Palestinian protests continue to take place in central London every weekend. Some Jewish leaders, as well as senior politicians, have complained that the capital has become a no-go zone.

A man takes a selfie in front of the lights in Coventry Street, London - Anadolu

Tim Barnes, the Conservative candidate for Cities of London and Westminster, said: Westminster sees protests every weekend that highlight the heightened tensions we see around the globe. I think the Ramadan lights are to be welcomed, but its critical that we are seen to be welcoming to all of our major communities and are even-handed in how we represent and promote major festivals and religious holidays.

The Ramadan lights were switched on by Mr Khan with support from Adil Ray, a TV presenter and actor, and Rahima Aziz, the daughter of the charitys founder and a trustee of the Aziz Foundation.

The lights are the idea of Aisha Desai who was inspired by the festive Christmas lights in central London.

She initially crowdfunded to bring lights to her local community before securing funding for the central London display.

Ms Desai has been awarded a Points of Light award for the initiative and this years design features Islamic designs and illuminated signs wishing Happy Ramadan to passers-by.

Raising awareness of other religions

She has said that she hopes it will raise awareness of Ramadan but encourage people from other religions or organise their own displays.

Its spreading awareness in such a nice way through art and light installation, she said. It was the idea that came from me but I encourage Muslims and people from other faiths to continue on and do it.

A spokesman for Mr Khan said: Sadiq is proud that as Mayor hes stood up for Londoners of all faiths, taking part in a host of festivals and celebrations, including around Easter. Hes attended churches around both Christmas and Easter, while visiting church-run foodbanks.

The Mayors office continue to help facilitate the world-famous staging of the Passion of Christ in Trafalgar Square, which attracts thousands of people every year.

Sadiq is immensely grateful for the hand of friendship offered to him by Christian friends and neighbours. This Sunday, Sadiq looks forward to joining a local church congregation as they celebrate Easter.

Festivals from different faith groups

A Westminster City Council spokesman said: The council supports festivals from different faith communities throughout the year, and the Ramadan lights form part of that activity.

The West End hosts millions of visitors a year from around the world and these lights will add an attractive extra dimension to Oxford Street for those who observe Ramadan and those who dont.

The council has pointed out that it routinely supports a wide range of other faith activities throughout the year including Christmas, Easter, Palm Sunday, Eid, Diwali and Hanukkah.

Christian Concern, a group which promotes Christian values, said that it planned in the future to put in a number of applications for decorations to celebrate Easter.

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Easter is here, and while observers hide eggs and take pictures with the Easter bunny, eastern cottontails in Indiana begin to have their first of as many as seven litters.

Cottontails are prolific breeders and Hoosiers may find babies in their yards or in nearby woods and fields. These rabbits look for habitat along the edges of open spaces but are adaptable and can find homes in other habitats.

What to do with orphaned baby rabbits

If Hoosiers find baby rabbits in the yard, it may seem like a good idea to try and help, but experts say the best thing to do is leave them alone.

Mothers will leave babies in divots and depressions hidden under vegetation for most of the day while returning for short periods to nurse the babies. If a young cottontail is truly abandoned or injured, call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

In Indiana, its illegal to possess wildlife, including cottontails, without special permits.

Eastern cottontail rabbits are found throughout Indiana. As Easter approaches, the wild rabbits will start having their first of many litters.

Indianas eastern cottontail populations

These reddish brown or gray cottontails are common throughout Indiana. Populations cycle between high and low depending on several factors including predators, food sources and weather conditions. Populations peak every 10 years or so.

A full-grown cottontail can grow up to 19 inches long and weigh an average of 2 to 3 pounds, with females weighing more than males.

Wild cottontails can live up to five years, but the average life expectancy for those that are old enough to leave the nest is only around 11 months.

When is Easter 2024?: Here's your guide to celebrating the holiday with kids

How to create a rabbit friendly yard

The National Wildlife Federation launched a program dedicated to helping people plan and grow habitat beneficial to local wildlife in their yards.

The NWF website includes a short quiz to help plan and purchase native plants to keep pollinators, birds and small mammals content.

Dont release domestic pets into the wild

Animal shelters and rabbit advocates across the U.S. urge people not to purchase rabbits as pets for young children. While the baby domesticated rabbits are cute, they quickly become high-maintenance pets.

These store-bought rabbits do not have the needed skills to survive in the wild. They lack the ability to forage for food and dont have the same survival instincts wild cottontails do.

If a domestic rabbit does manage to survive, it can quickly reproduce and create colonies not native to the landscape.

Karl Schneider is an IndyStar environment reporter. You can reach him at karl.schneider@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @karlstartswithk

IndyStar's environmental reporting project is made possible through the generous support of the nonprofit Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Easter in Indiana means baby cottontails start appearing
Whenever an apparent terrorist attack occurs, ones first thought is who was responsible?

In a reasonable country, one starts with the facts. But Russia is not a reasonable country. Indeed, since the terrible massacre which claimed 137 lives, the Kremlins first instinct was to pump out every conceivable conspiracy theory under the sun.

The first was that Kyiv was responsible, later extrapolated to include the Western intelligence services, such as MI6. This is despite the fact that, in private, it would appear that very few of the Russian elite believe that Ukraine or the West bear any responsibility. There are even reports that Putin himself is unconvinced by what his propaganda spews.

So lets properly consider  since it seems the Russians are incapable of doing so  the scenarios currently being put forward, and consider their likelihood.

Firstly, the most obvious: that this was a terrible terror attack by ISIS acting on their own; a jihadist attack where the murderers killed innocent people to draw attention to their cause.

The evidence for this is clear: ISIS have already claimed responsibility, using the correct channels and authentications as part of the accepted procedure. Further evidence can be found in the fact that there was a very clear warning of such an attack in Moscow two weeks ago, willfully ignored by the Kremlin. The attack also has the hallmarks of other jihadist attacks, like the Bataclan attack in Paris and the West Gate massacre in Nairobi.

So far, this has to remain the most likely scenario for what occurred. But another theory is slightly different: that ISIS acted alone, but were permitted to carry out the attack by the Russian intelligence services as part of a false flag operation to boost support for its clampdowns and the war in Ukraine.

We know such an attack is in their playbook. They have past history, such as with the 1999 attack in Moscow on a tower block done to further the war in Chechnya. Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian agent, spoke openly about this and paid for doing so his life, murdered using the deadly radioactive isotope Polonium 210 in London.

The main indication for this theory is a complete lack of visible security at the venue in one of the most policed cities in the world, somewhere where doing any conceivably seditious can have one arrested in minutes. Yet the attackers waltzed around for an hour killing people and even got away, despite Russian anti-terror units supposedly being only 1 mile away. In addition, as I say, the CIA and MI6 had just warned of a terror attack on a venue like this, so why was there not better security?

The evidence against this, though, is also extensive. History tends to favour cock-up over conspiracy, and we know GRU can be as staggeringly incompetent as any sweeping bureaucracy, especially one predicated on fear. Few can forget the striking ineptness of the two elite officers who came to my hometown of Salisbury to assassinate the double agent Sergei Skripal in 2018. They were tracked virtually from the moment they arrived in London to the moment they left. They failed to kill Skripal, and instead killed an innocent member of the public, Dawn Sturgess. In the aftermath of this, another group of muppets attempted a cyber-attack on the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) HQ in the Hague. They, too, were exposed.

Which leads onto theory number three  the one currently being propagated by Putin: namely that the West is somehow involved, in cahoots with Kyiv.

Presumably, the motivation would be to stir unrest in Russia, destabilising Putin and degrading the war in Ukraine as a priority by forcing Islamic terrorism to become a core focus. Yet, frankly, this is so unlikely that it can almost be discounted out of hand.

For one, this is not how the US/UK conducts covert operations in the 21st century. Even if it were given the green light  which it would obviously not be for moral and legal reasons  such an operation would take months of planning, with likely vulnerabilities at every level of the operation. Plus, if it ever got out, the risk would be extraordinary: it would give Putin leeway to use almost any weapons in his arsenal to attack Kyiv or others. Whatever happens in Bond and Mission Impossible movies is not the reality of today for the CIA/MI6.

As such, the most likely explanation is that this was indeed an ISIS attack, though I keep an open mind as to the degree to which this may have been considered as a helpful tool for some of the top brass in the Kremlin. Given the atrocities they carry out daily in Ukraine, I struggle to see how this regime is not capable of it. It is ironic that we call this terrorism and not the attacks carried out day in, day out on civilian targets in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and elsewhere.

Regardless, what matters now is what this means for Putin and his cronies. In all likelihood, it will give him cause for more oppression and a ramping up of rhetoric against the West and Ukraine. What it is unlikely to do is weaken him domestically. In that context, perhaps the best we can hope for is that behind the scenes it will lead to more investment into deterring Islamic terror rather than spewing out lies about the West.

Colonel (Retd) Hamish de Bretton-Gordon OBE is a former commander of UK & NATO CBRN Forces. He is a regular contributor to our daily podcast, Ukraine: The Latest.

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A group of people thought to be migrants are brought ashore at Dover, Kent, on Monday - Gareth Fuller/PA

A record 4,644 migrants have crossed the Channel in small boats in the first three months of this year, Home Office figures showed on Wednesday.

Some 338 people were detected crossing to the UK on Tuesday, bringing the cumulative number of arrivals so far this year to the highest since the first small boats reached the UK in 2018.

The cumulative number of arrivals is 23 per cent higher than the total at this point last year, which was 3,770, and 12 per cent higher than the total at this stage in 2022  4,162.

The figures have reversed the trend from last year, when the total of 29,437 arrivals was down 36 per cent on the annual record of 45,774.

It comes after last week saw a record daily high for the year, when 504 migrants arrived on Wednesday in small boats.

More than 20,000 migrants have crossed the Channel since the Government introduced its stop the boats legislation in the form of the Illegal Migration Act, which received Royal Assent in July last year.

It gives ministers the powers to deem any migrants asylum claim inadmissible if they arrived in the UK illegally and deport them to a safe third country such as Rwanda.

The migrants are, however, in limbo because the Government has yet to implement the legislation but is not allowing them to claim asylum.

The surge comes despite a three-year, 480 million Anglo-French deal, agreed by Rishi Sunak last year, to pay for a doubling in officers patrolling French beaches to 800, a joint command centre and a detention centre to prevent migrants from leaving France.

It emerged earlier this month that France has been adopting tougher tactics, including physically trying to force small boats to turn round for the first time, manoeuvres known as pull backs used in an attempt to stop small boats reaching British shores.

Tactics filmed by campaigners showed French Border Force vessels circling a migrant boat, causing waves to flood the dinghy, ramming into a small boat while threatening passengers with a large tank of pepper spray, and puncturing boats when they are already at sea, forcing migrants to swim back to shore.

The Governments Rwanda Bill  a key plank of Mr Sunaks pledge to stop the boats  has been delayed until after the Easter recess after a series of heavy defeats inflicted on the Government by the Lords.

It has raised fears that efforts to get the first deportation flights to Rwanda are likely to be delayed from May until June, when people smugglers ramp up operations to take advantage of the calmer, better weather.

Responding to questions over the three-week delay, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said: The legislation is dealing with a migration emergency, and we are introducing that legislation as soon as we possibly can to reduce the number of people taking the perilous journey across the Channel.

A Home Office spokesman said: The unacceptable number of people who continue to cross the Channel demonstrates exactly why we must get flights to Rwanda off the ground as soon as possible.

We continue to work closely with French police, who are facing increasing violence and disruption on their beaches as they work tirelessly to prevent these dangerous, illegal and unnecessary journeys.

We remain committed to building on the successes that saw arrivals drop by more than a third last year, including tougher legislation and agreements with international partners, in order to save lives and stop the boats.

Stephen Kinnock, the shadow immigration minister, said: Despite all the evidence to the contrary, Rishi Sunak keeps on telling the British people that small boat arrivals are coming down and his promise to stop the boats remains on track.

Can he not see what is happening from inside his Number 10 bunker, or does he think we cant see it for ourselves?

Either way, its time to get a grip and restore order to the border. Labour will strengthen our border security, crush the smuggling gangs, clear the asylum backlog, end hotel use and set up a new returns and enforcement unit so those with no right to be in the UK are swiftly returned. That is the plan we need.

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The number of migrants who have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel has reached a record high for the first three months of a calendar year.

According to provisional Home Office figures, 338 people arrived in seven boats on Tuesday, taking the total for the year to date to 4,644.

The previous record for arrivals in January to March was set in 2022 with 4,548.

A Home Office spokesperson said: "We remain committed to building on the successes that saw arrivals drop by more than a third last year."

The number of arrivals so far this year is 23% higher than the total at this point in 2023, which was 3,770, a PA news agency analysis of government figures show.

It is also 12% higher than the total at this stage in 2022, which was 4,162.

There were 29,437 arrivals across the whole of 2023, down 36% on a record 45,774 arrivals in 2022.

The Home Office said the number of crossings was unacceptable

The figures come after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak continued to insist his plan to stop the boats was working, even though crossings in 2024 were tracking ahead of recent years.

Downing Street said the government was dealing with a migration emergency after a record day for crossings last week.

Some 514 people made the journey in 10 boats on 20 March, making it the busiest day of 2024.

Meanwhile, the Governments Rwanda Bill remains stuck in parliamentary limbo after a series of further defeats in the House of Lords.

Members of Parliament are not scheduled to debate it again until after Westminster returns from its Easter break.

Labour's shadow immigration minister Stephen Kinnock said: Despite all the evidence to the contrary, Rishi Sunak keeps on telling the British people that small boat arrivals are coming down and his promise to stop the boats remains on track.

"Its time to get a grip and restore order to the border.

The Home Office said the number of crossings was unacceptable and shows exactly why we must get flights to Rwanda off the ground as soon as possible.

Asli Tatliadim, head of campaigns at Refugee Action, said: "People will continue to risk their lives to cross the Channel in flimsy boats because the government refuses to open safe routes for people to reach the UK to seek asylum here.

"No amount of expensive and unworkable deterrence policies such as its deal with the government of Rwanda will change that fact."

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LHASA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Yan Jinhai, chairman of the government of the Xizang Autonomous Region in southwest China, hailed Wednesday the region's miraculous development in various undertakings over the past 65 years.

Yan made the remarks in a televised speech marking the democratic reform that ended feudal serfdom in Xizang 65 years ago.

On March 28, 1959, people in Xizang launched the democratic reform, freeing a million serfs. In 2009, the regional legislature announced March 28 as the day to commemorate the emancipation of the one million serfs.

Today, a total of 172 international and domestic air routes have linked Xizang with 74 cities across the world, and the total length of highways in the region has exceeded 120,000 kilometers, Yan said.

A modern education system has been formed in Xizang, with the total number of students in schools reaching 960,000, accounting for 26.3 percent of the total population of the region.

Notably, the growth rate of per capita disposable income of residents in Xizang has ranked first nationwide for nine consecutive years, Yan added.

On ecological conservation, the chairman said that Xizang's protected areas account for 36 percent of the region's total land area, and its rich ecological resources have greatly benefited people of all ethnic groups in the region.

A new socialist Xizang with social stability, ethnic unity, religious harmony, economic prosperity, improved people's livelihood, sound ecology, and consolidated borders is standing high on the "roof of the world," Yan said. 
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  Authorities in Maryland have transitioned to recovery operations at the site of the catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge.

Six construction workers are presumed dead after a ship hit the Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday morning.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore says this cargo ship lost power and sent out an emergency mayday call.

Our state is in shock, said Moore.

The search for six missing workers was suspended as night fell, the water was deemed too cold and the effort too long for anyone to survive.

Very difficult water temperatures. You have structures from the bridge there in the water that can move with the tides and currents, said Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath, Commander Fifth Coast Guard District, U.S. Coast Guard.

President Biden sent federal officials from the FBI, Army Corp of Engineers to help local leaders and the transportation department.

This is an excruciating day for several families, said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

President Biden says he wants the federal government to cover the entire cost of rebuilding the bridge.

The people of Baltimore we will stick with them at every step of the way, Biden said.

The busy port of Baltimore remains closed to shipping until all the debris is removed from the river.

Baltimore is also the No. 1 automobile port in the U.S. This will impact about $80 billion in cargo that travels to and from one of Americas busiest ports.

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Divers braving the frigid waters of the Patapsco River near the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge on Wednesday found two bodies of missing construction workers inside a red pickup truck.

Maryland State Police Superintendent Roland Butler identified the victims as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, of Baltimore, originally from Mexico, and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, of Dundalk, originally from Guatemala. The bodies of four other members of the construction crew working on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when it was crushed by a cargo ship about 1:27 a.m. Tuesday are still missing and presumed dead.

Immigrant assistance and advocacy group CASA identified two of those still missing as Maynor Suazo Sandoval, a husband and father of two who was originally from Honduras and lived in Owings Mills, and Miguel Luna, a husband and father of three originally from El Salvador.

The bow of the massive Sri Lanka-bound ship, the Dali, was at the bottom of the Patapsco on Wednesday afternoon, weighed down by a piece of the bridge that once carried thousands of commuters across the harbor each day, up until its demise early Tuesday morning. The 984-foot ship has over 1.5 million gallons of fuel oil and lube oil on board, as well as about 4,700 cargo containers, Coast Guard Vice Adm. Peter Gautier said at a news conference Wednesday afternoon at the White House.

The ship is stable, and none of the roughly 50 cargo boxes containing hazardous materials that its carrying have gone overboard, Gautier said, noting there was no threat to public safety. The Coast Guard and the Army Corps of Engineers are trying to assess how to clear the channel to minimize the economic impact of the ongoing halt to operations at the Port of Baltimore, following President Joe Bidens directive to get the port up and running as soon as possible, Gautier said.

Given the magnitude and importance of this response, its going to be very, very aggressive, he said.

Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board and Coast Guard crews have boarded the ship, while divers plunge into the water and units conduct underwater surveys using remote operating vehicles, Gautier said.

The evening before, authorities called off a search-and-rescue operation for the six men presumed to be dead after they collapsed with the bridge into the water early Tuesday. Officials said Tuesday evening that they were transitioning to a recovery operation due to the frigid waters and because they did not believe the construction crew members would be found alive. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore vowed that officials would help the mens families find closure by putting resources toward finding the victims bodies.

Two others were rescued Tuesday morning, one of whom was treated and released from the hospital, according to officials. The six victims unaccounted for are construction workers who were filling potholes on the bridge when the container ship struck a support column, causing the expanse to collapse.

Baltimore Fire Capt. Scott Parrott, who is on the dive team, said a highway inspector was on the bridge near the time of impact and was able to run back to the end of the bridge to safety. Parrott said the inspector had valuable knowledge of the construction site and was able to help the dive team map out the debris field, giving them an idea of where to look.

Even though hed been through a very traumatic experience, he was able to be an essential part of our initial response and our initial dive profile, Parrott said. I commend him because he was very shaken up. He almost died. That man is a very special man. He was able to fight the fear and really help us out.

At a news conference, Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld said the inspector was a contractor by the Maryland Transportation Authority from Eborn Enterprises Inc. in Windsor Mill.

Wiedefeld said construction workers were alerted they needed to move off the bridge as law enforcement stopped traffic but did not specify how workers would have been notified.

In addition to those searching for the workers, crews from the transportation safety board and the FBI were also in the water to collect evidence. The boards chair, Jennifer Homendy, said Wednesday morning that investigators had boarded the Dali overnight and would board again Wednesday to get electronic logs and components  perishable evidence that will go away as the collapse is cleaned up.

The focus is what do we need for our investigation  whether its from the vessel or from the highway, from the bridge structure  identifying those, securing those before we do any sort of analysis, she said. A spokesperson for the board said later Wednesday that investigators had recovered data from the black box, known as a Voyage Data Recorder.

Investigators were also developing a list of witnesses they sought to interview, including the cargo ships 22-member crew, which is still on board, according to a spokesperson for Synergy Marine Group, the Dalis management company.

In addition to the crew members, a local pilot and an apprentice were on board, according to Clay Diamond, executive director of the American Pilots Association. Local pilots, mariners who are highly trained in navigating local waters, assist ship crews in getting through testy harbors. The job, which Diamond described as the pinnacle of a mariner career, requires extensive, arduous training.

A pilot was at the helm of the Dali when it appeared to lose power early Tuesday morning, causing the ships steering and propulsion systems to fail, Diamond said. The pilot did everything he could by contacting authorities and steering the ships rudder to the left once its backup generators kicked in, though the ships engines were still inoperable, he said. The ship also dropped anchor. Those maneuvers gave authorities the extra time to shut down bridge traffic, he said.

Speaking with reporters Wednesday morning, Moore said that he cannot stress enough the heroism of the rescue and recovery teams who have braved the Patapscos frigid waters since Tuesday. He said the divers are in dark waters where they can only see a foot in front of them, navigating mangled metal in a place where people are believed to have died.

Moore said Tuesday that he had met with the families of the missing workers and promised to use every possible asset at our disposal to make sure they find a sense of closure.

One employee of the highway construction company, who was not involved in the incident, Jesus Campos, said his missing co-workers were of Hispanic descent and were replacing concrete on the bridge at the time of the collision. The workers are all employees of the Hunt Valley firm Brawner Builders, according to Jeffrey Pritzker, its executive vice president.

The General Consulate of Guatemala in Maryland said in a Facebook post Tuesday that two of the missing workers were from that country.

Related Articles

One of the workers was identified by family members as Miguel Luna, a Salvadoran father of three who has lived in Maryland for 19 years. He and his five missing co-workers were the subject of Masses and vigils across the city Tuesday.

We are CASA, an immigration advocacy organization, identified a second victim Wednesday as Maynor Suazo Sandoval. He migrated from Honduras over 17 years ago and was an active member of CASA in Owings Mills.

A former Brawner Builders employee, Bobby Knutson Jr., identified a third victim as Alex Hernandez, a Mexican native and foreman of the construction crew.

At a vigil Tuesday evening at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Baltimore City and Baltimore County officials appeared alongside faith leaders, thanking first responders for their efforts and promising to support the impacted families.

We can only imagine what is going through [the families] minds and through their hearts and through their bodies, said Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott. We have to lift them up, not just today, not just tomorrow but for the foreseeable future.

Catholic Archbishop William Lori, alongside other bishops, held a Mass in honor of the men on Tuesday. Father Ako Walker, a priest at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Highlandtown, offered prayers in Spanish for the families at a Dundalk vigil.

Baltimore Sun reporters Cassidy Jensen, Darcy Costello, Hayes Gardner and Christine Condon contributed to this article.
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  In our fourth and final installment honoring four remarkable Big Country women, we are introduced to Abilene Business owner Fran Beale. Since taking ownership of A-town Cleaners in 2008, Beale says shes gotten to know the community quite well.

Whether through a routine cleaning of a lucky pair of pants, or acting as the saving grace for a bride with a gown in peril, Beale told KTAB/KRBC she finds her job infinitely rewarding, I never will forget this one. 80-year-old lady came in and said, you wouldnt think youd be cleaning a wedding dress for someone that was 80 years old, would you? But I lost my husband and I fell in love again.'

Fran Beale, nominee and finalist for KTABs 2024 Remarkable Women contest

Beale was nominated for KTABs 2024 Remarkable Women contest by her peers for her dedication to the community, fostering relationships, and helping women succeed.

One nomination for Beale reads in part, As a mother of three and grandmother to seven grandboys, Frans dedication to family is surpassed only by her commitment to community service Her brainchild, Jackets for Joy, is a testament to her compassionate nature. This project, which she initiated at her cleaners, involves cleaning gently used jackets for free and donating them to those in need within our community. Frans love for her community is evident in her willingness to serve, and her multifaceted contributions have undoubtedly enriched the lives of many.

Where some see a stain as a clumsy mistake, Beale said she sees a story and an opportunity to make a friend. Its this positive attitude toward life that her Husband Paul told KTAB/KRBC makes her not only a good boss but a good person.

Remarkable Women: Abilene woman creates nonprofit to support survivors of human trafficking

She just always tries to find the good in everything and its opened up my eyes to start looking for the good in people, said Paul.

If you ask her employees, youre likely to find the same answer.

Jessica Jenkins has been working at A-town for two years. Its a steady job and a supportive environment that makes a stable life for her family. This is a far cry from her position just a few years ago.

Shes not only my boss, she is my friend. I can confide in her, Jenkins shared. Without the support of New Beginnings and Ms. Fran I would be back in Prison.

Through her partnership with a local womens transitional home, New Beginnings, Beale provides employment and opportunity for women with troubled pasts.

Remarkable Women: Abilene cancer survivor, community servant credits public support with recovery

A lot of employers, because theyve had a bad experience, they dont want to hire anybody thats been through lifestyles that some of our women have been, explained Missy Denard, executive director for New Beginnings. You know what it means to me to know that my women are working in a safe place that somebody that truly cares for them?

A calling from God is what Beale credits her drive to continue to open her life and her business to the women she helps. Adding, her reward is well worth any risk she might take just to see their lives transform and hope restored.

Some of these people that come out of prison or challenging situations, they They need a second chance, and Im just thankful to be able to have that opportunity to give them a second chance, Beale spoke to her work with New Beginnings.

Remarkable Women: Abilene cancer survivor, community servant credits public support with recovery

The grace she extends to these women doesnt end when they leave her laundry business. Former A-Town Cleaners employee, Amy McClatchey told KTAB/KRBC her time at New Beginnings and her friendship with Beale were the turning point to which she traced her current success.

I was lost. I was in drug addiction and I didnt have self confidence, I didnt have self worth, I didnt know where to turn, but I knew I had to start somewhere, revealed McClatchey.

Feeling aimless and a bit hopeless, McClatchey said she found that much-needed re-do at A-Town Cleaners. Beal was different from others she had met at that time, McClatchey included, seeing her not as the person she was, but for the potential she had to succeed.

Left to right: Missy Denard, Fran Beale, and Amy McClatchey

She left because she wanted to further her education, and from there she has gotten her associates and is working toward a career, Beale said with pride.

Now pursuing dreams she hadnt imagined possible just a few years ago, McClatchey now gives support she learned from Beale to other women, continuing a chain of success

When I transitioned to my current job, she (Beale) cheered me on the entire way because she knew that I was going for something that I was passionate about, and she knew that I was growing myself, and in turn that allowed me to pour into other women, added McClatchey.

Throughout the month of March, KTAB/KRBC will highlight four women of the Big Country nominated for our parent companys Remarkable Women contest. Our 2024 Remarkable Woman will be announced at the beginning of April, and she will be awarded a physically large check in the amount of $1,000 to go to a nonprofit of her choosing. Then, shell be flown into Hollywood, California for the national Remarkable Women event by Nexstar.

If chosen as the local winner, Beale said she plans to donate her winnings to New Beginnings. She said the lives she has seen changed through the organizations assistance, teaching life management skills, and finding employment with multiple local businesses is a cause very near to her heart.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
Remarkable Women: Dr. Tamesha Hughes-Frazier

Back in November, Queen City News and its parent company Nexstar launched a campaign to feature remarkable women in our area throughout this month. We asked you to tell us about the remarkable women in your life, and you answered!

(QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Getting through high school can be tough enough. Navigating the college application process can be truly mind-boggling, and it can be even more difficult for low-income and first-generation students. Dr. Tamesha Hughes-Frazier was one of those students herself and has made it her lifes work to help kids fulfill their college dreams.

I didnt want students to have to wrestle with navigating the college experience, Tamesha explains. I wanted them to have a relationship, up close and personal, with someone who could hold their hand through the entire high school process. Basically hand-feeding them the info that they would need later on if they decided to go to college.

In 2015, Tamesha had a vision. Stemming from her years growing up in the projects of Cincinnati, Ohio to going to college and starting her career as a teacher, she identified with students who had the potential to succeed, but their background or financial hardships might be holding them back.

Tamesha shares, We see that all the time trying to achieve economic mobility. Sometimes it cant happen in the city that you live in. Sometimes you have to set sail and hope that you can make it wherever you go.

MORE FROM QUEEN CITY NEWS

Remarkable Women Stories

Tameshas vision became Hughes Elite Scholars, a non-profit agency providing that support, helping students set sail, and go where they dream to go.

Percell Hobbs, a Hughes Elite Scholars academic coordinator, has been with the agency since 2018. He calls Tamesha a visionary to the core. Her vision is to make sure the whole body is completed. The family, the mother, the father, the sister, the brother. Everyone gets help with us.

From tutoring and test prep to life lessons visiting colleges around the country, to financial literacy for parents, its truly a family affair.

Dr. Rhonda Covington has known Tamesha since their days working for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. She sees the need for a program like Hughes Elite Scholarsthey currently serve about 400 students across four counties. Its greatly needed, Dr. Covington explains. Students have so many choices that are not necessarily in their best interest, whether its social media, gun violence, or whatever. To be able to provide the opportunity, that choice.

Dr. Covington goes on to explain how well Tamesha works with the students. When they see that they can come from humble beginnings if they have the desire, if they put in the hard work, if they surround themselves with people who can give them guidance and support and fuel that work and desire I think she stands as a testament for them.

Through all the schoolwork, college applications, financial forms, and tests, Tamesha and her team have one big goal: to take away the fear of the unknown. Enjoy the journey, versus stressing through the journey.

Hughes Elite Scholars hopes to one day open a main gathering space for students, offering fun programs, tutoring, and even their own school! If youd like to donate or volunteer your time to one of their many programs, you can go to their website, hugheselitescholars.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
A Tennessee Republican is being sued for defamation over a social media post that falsely identified a Kansas man as a mass shooter.

Denton Loudermill Jr. filed a lawsuit Monday after Rep. Tim Burchett posted a tweet suggesting that Loudermill was a shooter at a Feb. 14 Super Bowl victory parade in Missouri, where one person was killed and at least 25 others were wounded.

On Feb. 15, Burchett took to X to share a photo of Loudermill being held by police amid the shooting, along with a caption saying that One of the Kansas City Chiefs victory parade shooters has been identified as an illegal Alien.

Loudermill was not the shooter. Three adults and three juveniles face charges in connection with the shooting, according to prosecutors. Loudermill was briefly stopped at the parade location after police said that he was moving too slow, the lawsuit states. He was never charged with a crime.

At no time was Plaintiff an alien, an illegal alien, nor a shooter and the assertions to the contrary were false and were circulated widely among Defendants followers, the lawsuit says.

Burchetts tweet was reposted nearly 22,000 times and had 7.2 million views by the morning of Feb. 18, according to the lawsuit.

On Feb. 19, the congressman made a new post on X to correct his remarks, while still appearing to misrepresent Loudermill.

It has come to my attention that in one of my previous posts, one of the shooters was identified as an illegal alien, Burchett said, alongside an image of the Feb. 15 tweet showing Loudermill. This was based on multiple, incorrect news reports stating that. I have removed the post.

A community note attached to the Feb. 19 tweet points out that news organizations didnt report Loudermill as a possible shooter, but only published a photo of him being held by police.

A spokesperson for Burchett declined to comment.

Loudermill said that he received death threats following the congressmans online remarks.

This is never going to go away for me, he told The Washington Post. This is going to go away for him. I will still have people looking at me and judging me for what he said.

Loudermill is seeking $75,000 in damages.
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 27, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena in Beijing on Wednesday.

Noting that the friendship between China and Sri Lanka enjoys a long history and the two peoples share a natural affinity, Xi said consolidating and promoting China-Sri Lanka relations serves the fundamental interests and reflects the common expectations of the two peoples.

China is willing to work with Sri Lanka to carry forward the spirit of the Rubber-Rice Pact, which is characterized by "independence, self-reliance, unity and mutual support," to consolidate political mutual trust, enhance exchanges of experience in governance, expand practical cooperation, and advance the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, Xi said.

He noted that China and Sri Lanka should join hands to advance their strategic cooperative partnership featuring sincere mutual assistance and ever-lasting friendship.

China firmly supports Sri Lanka in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence and national dignity, and in exploring a modernization path suited to its national conditions, Xi said, adding that China will continue to provide due assistance within its capacity for Sri Lanka's economic and social development.

He said that both sides should make joint efforts to promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, especially that of the two flagship projects, the Colombo Port City and the Hambantota Port. China and Sri Lanka should also work together to enhance logistics, energy and industrial cooperation, and promote exchanges and cooperation in digital economy, green economy, clean energy, culture-oriented tourism and marine economy.

China will continue to import more high-quality specialty products from Sri Lanka, encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in the country, and hopes that the business environment in Sri Lanka will be fair and transparent, Xi said.

He added that China is willing to advance cooperation with Sri Lanka on rural poverty reduction, to help the country with economic transformation and upgrading, and with sustainable development.

The two sides should continue to maintain the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, enhance coordination on international and regional affairs, safeguard the common interests of both sides, uphold international fairness and justice, and promote the construction of a community with a shared future for humanity, Xi stressed.

Noting that Sri Lanka and China enjoy a traditional friendship, Gunawardena said that Sri Lanka adheres unswervingly to the one-China principle, unequivocally follows the policy of friendly cooperation with China, and gives China priority on its diplomatic agenda.

He expressed appreciation for China's assistance to Sri Lanka in times of difficulty, saying that projects such as the Colombo Port City and the Hambantota Port have boosted Sri Lanka's economic and social development, as well as the overall development of the region.

Sri Lanka will take part in the China-proposed Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative, said Gunawardena, adding that the country will work with China to promote bilateral friendship, expand cooperation on trade and economy, education, tourism, poverty reduction and other fields, and improve international and multilateral communication and coordination. 

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 27, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Upgrades to the Brandon Road Lock and Dam in Illinois is considered the key to preventing invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes. But so far, the grand plans have made little progress.

Documents obtained by WBEZ in Chicago show that state officials in Illinois will only proceed on an incremental basis unless the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers commits to using federal funds first.

The Brandon Road Interbasin Project, which was first developed in 2019, is expected to cost roughly $1.15 billion dollars. The plan involves a layered system of structural and non-structural control measures to prevent invasive carp or any other aquatic pest from entering the Great Lakes through the Illinois Waterway, where invasive carp already have an established population.

The two state governments were expected to cover approximately 10% of the total costs. As of March 2023, Illinois had committed $50 million and Michigan had committed $64 million, with federal money covering the rest.

Michigan DNR finds positives after invasive carp found past electric barriers

So far, $226 million in federal funds have been committed to the project for the first phases of design and construction, but they have been on standby since 2022, per WBEZ.

In his latest proposal, sent earlier this month, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker wants all available federal funds to be used first to avoid potential reallocation of the federal funds to other projects in the nation.

In this 2012 file photo, invasive carp, jolted by an electric current from a research boat, jump from the Illinois River near Havana, Ill. (AP file)

While the federal government has determined this project is of the highest priority, the taxpayers of Illinois and Michigan should not be the only states to carry the burden of the non-federal share of funding when the entire Great Lakes region will certainly experience the devastating impact of inaction, Pritzker wrote.

Invasive carp  formerly known as Asian carp and also called copi  are considered a major threat to the Great Lakes because they could upend the natural ecosystem. Invasive carp are voracious eaters and would devour the food sources for several popular Great Lakes fish, including walleye and rainbow trout, key players in the regions billion-dollar fishing industry.

Beyond Brandon Road: Monitoring 18 other points invasive carp could enter Great Lakes

Invasive carp were used as a tool in the 1970s, controlling algae, weed and parasite growth on aquatic farms. But the fish eventually made their way into the Mississippi River basin and now dominate that ecosystem.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has worked with environmental agencies for years to monitor the fish in the Mississippi River basin and ensure they dont make it to the Great Lakes. The two systems only have one permanent connection point  the Chicago-Area Waterway System.

There are already several tools in place, including an existing electric barrier that costs Illinois taxpayers approximately $15 million each year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
The room where the House Community and Regional Affairs Committee holds its meeting sits empty on March 26, 2024. (Photo by Claire Stremple/Alaska Beacon)

The room where the House Community and Regional Affairs Committee holds its meeting sits empty on March 26, 2024. A presentation about an increase in the number of inmate deaths in state custody was abruptly canceled here. (Photo by Claire Stremple/Alaska Beacon)

A presentation about a jump in the number of inmate deaths in state custody that included proposals for solutions was abruptly canceled in an Alaska legislative committee on Tuesday morning.

In a vote that fell along party lines, Republican members of the House Community and Regional Affairs Committee voted to cancel the talk prepared by the American Civil Liberties Union of Alaska and former Department of Corrections Commissioner Dean Williams.

The objection to the discussion hinged on a rule that legislative bodies should not discuss matters under adjudication; the state is the defendant in a wrongful death lawsuit.

The refusal comes after a spike in the number of Alaskans that have died in the states carceral system. Last year, a record of 18 people died in custody. This year the ACLU of Alaska alleges 13 have died, though the state has accounted for only 10 of them.

Megan Edge, director of ACLU Alaskas Prison Project, which monitors the states criminal legal system, said she was disappointed that lawmakers turned down an opportunity to start solving the problem of increased inmate deaths in the state.

We have 5,000 Alaskans sitting in our jails and the fact that theyre not willing to hear this says a lot about how little they care about people in prison, she said. The people that are dying are predominantly pretrial, very young and Alaska Native.

Williams was slated to weigh in on how to address the recent uptick in inmate deaths  an issue he faced as head of the Corrections Department in 2016.

If the rule was you could never talk about anything in litigation or address anything in litigation you would never get to talk about anything in this building, he said.

Williams said what he came to talk about is distinct from the lawsuit.

Theyre conflating legal issues, he said. And whats disappointing is it seems to be an attempt to not actually discuss the problems.

Deaths in custody

Williams flew to Juneau from Anchorage to share his insights at the meeting. While a special assistant to former Gov. Bill Walker, he conducted an investigation into the states Corrections Department with a retired FBI agent. The report called for an external review of inmate deaths, much like the one the ACLU currently seeks. He said the recent deaths feel similar to what he dealt with back then.

There was an opportunity to address what has gone wrong again in the last several years and why we have the highest number of deaths in the departments history, he said.

Theres deaths that are occurring that are totally inappropriate, that I know Commissioner (Jen) Winkelman would never agree with and would not would not want herself.

One of his major recommendations is that the state reinstall an independent internal affairs unit in the Corrections Department, like one in place when he was commissioner. It was dismantled by Gov. Mike Dunleavys administration, he said. Alaska is one of only a few states without one.

You cant expect the department to investigate itself when bad things happen, he said. Alaska is an outlier in terms of having an internal affairs unit. There is no internal affairs unit right now in Alaska. That is not the way other correctional systems operate in our country.

Williams worked with Winkelman previously and said he supported her efforts; his goal in speaking at the Capitol was to talk about ways the state could improve and that canceling the hearing deprived the department of recommendations on how to address its challenges.

All this will do is, it will continue to inflame passions of advocacy groups, it will continue to inflame passions of the families of loved ones who are dying and not understanding whats happening, he said.

Surprise objection

The objection of committee Co-chair Rep. Kevin McCabe, R-Big Lake, came as a surprise to the committees Chair, Rep. CJ McCormick, D-Bethel, who had scheduled the presentation.

When McCabe objected to the presentation, he cited a rule from Masons Manual of Legislative Procedure, which states, Any matter awaiting adjudication in a court should not be debated or discussed in a legislative body.

The adjudication in question was a lawsuit filed last year. In it, the ACLU of Alaska joined the family of James Rider, one of the inmates who died last year, in a suit seeking damages for his alleged wrongful death and an independent review of the Corrections Departments practices.

After consulting with Megan Wallace, the Legislatures chief attorney, committee members voted 4 to 3 not to hear the presentation. Wallace did not advise lawmakers which path to choose, but answered questions about the law and legal liability.

In a memo to McCabes office on March 25, she wrote that there may be grounds for objection to discussing the 2015 Department of Corrections report or recommendations for review of Department of Corrections practices on the grounds that the matters are currently awaiting adjudication.

Republican members McCabe, Rep. Justin Ruffridge, R-Soldotna, Rep. Tom McKay, R-Anchorage, and Rep. Thomas Baker, R-Kotzebue, upheld the objection.

Democratic and Independent members McCormick, Rep. Rebecca Himschoot, I-Sitka, and Rep. Donna Mears, D-Anchorage, voted to hear the presentation on the condition that the lawsuit was not addressed.

Ruffridge said he would have voted to hear the presentation, but because some of the solutions proposed by the ACLU were mentioned in the lawsuit, he thought the whole discussion would run afoul of the rule.

That reasoning suggests that it was the solutions the civil rights group sought that took the topic off the table for lawmakers.

That logic has not stopped House or Senate Health and Social Services Committees from discussing a pair of bills that would increase access to food stamp benefits and speed processing times while there were lawsuits pending against the state.

The bills were a response to a backlog of crisis proportions in the states Division of Public Assistance that kept Alaskans from getting their benefits in a timely manner from 2022 until early this year.

McCabe said on Tuesday that ACLU lawyers should have known better than to bring up a subject in active litigation.

Theyve been around the block a few times, they should know that theyre not allowed to adjudicate a case in a legislative committee hearing, he said.

Despite his vote, McCabe said he was open to hearing from the ACLU and other groups, including the Alaska Federation of Natives, which filed a resolution asking for an independent federal investigation into the disproportionate deaths of Alaska Native people in custody, and the Department of Corrections. DOC officials were not invited to testify on Tuesday.

McCormick called the move a misuse of procedure and said it felt like an attempt to skirt hard conversations about deaths in custody.

He apologized to the ACLU and relatives of deceased inmates who had called in to speak as he closed the committee meeting without hearing their testimony.

I failed you today as chair of this committee. I didnt expect my vice chair to do this, he said, and noted how intractable the problem of inmate deaths could be without discussion in the Capitol.

I want to apologize that were failing citizens of the state and allowing them to die in our custody.

The post Republican lawmakers shut down legislative hearing about deaths in Alaska prisons appeared first on Alaska Beacon.
Republicans are facing criticism for attempting to blame the Baltimore Bridge collapse on President Joe Bidens infrastructure bill.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed on Tuesday after a cargo ship crashed into it. Six construction workers are presumed dead.

South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace appeared on the rightwing channel Newsmax on Tuesday when she was asked why there are still old bridges and roads in the US after the passing of legislation to upgrade them.

Because we're not spending it on roads and bridges, she claimed. Look at the $1.2tn infrastructure bill that was done a couple of years ago that the left hails as this massive success, but it was mostly Green New Deal, actually, in that bill  110bn went to surface transportation which is roads and bridges and of that 110bn, 70 billion went to public transportation leaving only 40bn for traditional roads and bridges.

Ms Mace inaccurately described the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure deal, which she didnt vote for but has taken credit for.

The legislation will reauthorize surface transportation programs for five years and invest $110 billion in additional funding to repair our roads and bridges and support major, transformational projects, the White House said in November 2021.

In addition to that, separately, the White House noted that The legislation includes $39 billion of new investment to modernize transit, in addition to continuing the existing transit programs for five years as part of surface transportation reauthorization.

In total, the new investments and reauthorization in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal provide $89.9 billion in guaranteed funding for public transit over the next five years  the largest Federal investment in public transit in history, the White House added at the time.

Ms Mace went on to say, If you live along the coast or you live near water, you know that our bridges are rusting out, you know that we have many, many bridges that have to be replaced and upgraded.

You know, it's probably about a billion dollars of bridge every time and so I look at South Carolina when the infrastructure bill came through. We really only got $1 billion more than we otherwise would have over a five year period. I can barely build a bridge in my district for a billion dollars, she claimed.

ok so we've got...



-cyber-attack

-biden's border policies

-covid lockdowns

-DEI

-drug-addled crew

-the green new deal



what am i missing? https://t.co/jttg24mSeD  Chris D'Angelo (@c_m_dangelo) March 26, 2024

Biden 2020 delegate Victor Shi wrote on X that if youre blaming the Maryland bridge collapse on President Biden, youre a total & complete piece of s***. The bridge collapsing has nothing to do with him  all of them know it  and their attempt to blame this on him is as unpatriotic as it gets. Beneath contempt.

Author Christopher Moore added: Breaking: Titanic striking iceberg blamed on Biden climate policy.

Epidemiologist Eric Feigl-Ding wrote that its Sickening that Republicans (Nancy Mace) are now blaming Joe Bidens infrastructure bill for this bridge accident. The sheer gall and naked opportunism and idiocy.

Democratic congressional candidate Mac Deford added that its shameful that @NancyMace has used the #FrancisScottKeyBridge collapse to score political points, especially when she cant get her facts straight. South Carolina is expected to receive nearly $5 billion over the next 5 years for highways and bridges from the bipartisan infrastructure law.

Far-right Georgia Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene was hit with a community note on the platform after she asked if the bridge collapse could have been an intentional attack.

The FBI office in Baltimore said in a statement, according to The New York Times, that there was no specific and credible information to suggest any ties to terrorism.

In addition, Maryland Governor Wes Moore confirmed that the crew on the ship issued a mayday and communicated that they were having a power problem, leading to transportation officials stopping traffic.

These people are heroes. They saved lives, Mr Moore said, according to The Baltimore Banner.
A new national poll indicates that Republicans are more enthusiastic about former President Trump returning to the White House than Democrats are about President Biden serving another four years in office.

But Trump stirs more anger and fear from Democrats than Biden does from Republicans, according to the findings in an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey.

Fifty-four percent of Republicans questioned in the poll said "excited" describes how they would feel about a second Trump term as president. Only four in 10 Democrats said the same thing about a Biden victory in November's presidential election rematch between the White House incumbent and his predecessor.

TRUMP LEADS BIDEN BY DOUBLE DIGITS IN THIS DEEP RED STRONGHOLD: POLL

President Biden and former President Trump

The poll also indicates that seven in 10 Democrats used the words "angry" or "fearful" to describe how they would feel if Trump won the presidential election.

Fifty-six percent of Republicans said the same thing about Biden if he were to defeat Trump for a second straight time.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

LATEST GOP PRIMARY RESULTS SPOTLIGHT THAT THIS IS TRUMPS PARTY'

In a race that polls indicate will be extremely close, both excitement and dislike of the two major candidates will likely be crucial motivating factors in firing up the Democratic and Republican bases.

The poll was conducted March 21-25, with 1,282 adults nationwide questioned using a sample drawn from NORCs probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel, which is designed to be representative of the U.S. population. The survey's overall sampling error is plus or minus 3.8 percentage points.

With just over seven months to go until Election Day on Nov. 5, Trump enjoys the early edge in public opinion polling  both in most national surveys and in many of the polls in five of the six key battleground states where Biden narrowly topped Trump to win the White House in 2020.

But in another key metric  fundraising  Biden currently enjoys the upper hand.

The Biden-Trump rematch offers up stark contrasts when it comes to their style and demeanor, and on where they stand on key issues, such as the economy, health care and entitlements, immigration, abortion, foreign policy, the war in Ukraine, and America's overseas role going forward.

CAN TRUMP LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD WITH BIDEN IN 2024 FUNDRAISING FIGHT?

The 81-year-old Biden, who four years ago made history as the oldest American ever elected president, will continue to face questions about his mental and physical durability, even his recent vigorous State of the Union address.

The president also needs to show that he can energize younger voters, progressives, and Black and Latino Americans, who are all key parts of the Democratic base. Biden is also facing primary ballot box protests  materializing in "uncommitted" votes  over his support for Israel in its war in Gaza against Hamas.

The former president is also dealing with plenty of problems.

Trump, who last year made history as the first president or former president to face criminal charges, now faces four major trials and a total of 91 indictments  including federal cases on his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and on handling classified documents. There's also a massive civil fraud judgment that Trump is appealing. He will have to juggle his appearances in court with his time on the campaign trail.

The 77-year-old Trump will also need to court the sizable block of Republican voters who backed Nikki Haley in the GOP nomination race. The former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor was Trump's last remaining rival before she ended her White House campaign earlier this month. Haley's support is shining a spotlight on Trump's weakness with suburban and highly educated voters.

Complicating matters further  the presidential rematch between Biden and Trump won't be a two-candidate race.

Democratic-turned-Independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is working to place his name on state ballots across the country. Kennedy, a longtime environmental activist and high-profile vaccine skeptic who's a scion of the famous Kennedy political dynasty, is grabbing double-digits in many general election polls.

Green Party candidate Jill Stein and progressive independent candidate Cornell West are polling in the single digits. And the centrist group No Labels is moving ahead with plans to potentially launch a third-party "unity" presidential ticket.

While third-party and independent candidates didn't play much of a role in the 2020 presidential election, they did in the 2016 showdown between Trump and Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton. And they may again in 2024.

Get the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews and more at our Fox News Digital election hub





Original article source: Republicans top Dems on key factor motivating voter turnout for Biden-Trump rematch: poll
Russia is increasing imports of gasoline from Belarus to avert possible shortages connected to recent Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries, Reuters reported on March 27, citing four undisclosed trade and industry sources.

In the past weeks, Ukrainian forces have launched a series of drone strikes aimed at damaging Russia's oil industry.

While traditionally an exporter of fuel, the recent disruptions led to Russia buying the supplies from abroad and even banning gasoline exports on March 1, Reuters noted.

According to the news agency, Russia bought 3,000 metric tons of Belarusian gasoline in the first half of March, compared to 590 tons in February and none in January.

Two industry sources also told Reuters that discussions on further imports are underway between the Russian and Belarusian governments and oil companies.

The news agency reported earlier that seven Russian refineries have halted the refining capacity of 4.6 million tons of oil, or some 7% of the total, due to drone attacks.

Read also: Ukrainian drones hit one Russian oil refinery after another

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
From the Dispatch Politics on The Dispatch

Happy Wednesday! Aaron Rodgers did not turn out to be Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s pick for vice president. Unfortunately for him, it appears he will have an ill-fated season with the New York Jets, given that the Detroit Lions are going to win the Super Bowl. #OnePride!

Up to Speed

Former President Donald Trumps trial date for his criminal hush money case in New York has been set for April 15, Judge Juan Merchan ruled on Monday. Trumps team had attempted to postpone the trial due to prosecutors late production of about 100,000 documents related to the case, but Merchan ultimately found there was no prosecutorial misconduct present and no reason for delay. Asked if he would testify at his trial, Trump told ABC News, I would have no problem testifying. I didnt do anything wrong.

Merchan also issued a gag order for Trump which forbids the former president from speaking about his onetime attorney Michael Cohen and porn star Stormy Daniels, both witnesses in the case. Trump also is prohibited from commenting publicly on the prosecutors and their staff, although he is permitted to speak about Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and Merchan. The uncontested record reflecting the Defendants prior extra-judicial statements establishes a sufficient risk to the administration of justice  and there exists no less restrictive means to prevent such risk, the judge wrote in his order.

NBC News on Tuesday cut ties with former Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, less than a week after hiring her and after only one appearance as a contributor for the network on Sundays Meet The Press. Puck News was first to report the move. No organization, particularly a newsroom, can succeed unless it is cohesive and aligned, NBCUniversal News Group Chair Cesar Conde wrote in a memo to staff. Over the last few days, it has become clear that this appointment undermines that goal. McDaniels firing comes after an internal revolt from staff at NBC News and MSNBC, which reportedly included anchors vowing not to include McDaniel on their programs.

Axios reported Monday that Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio played a significant role in Bernie Morenos win in their states Republican Senate primary. Vance directed over $1 million to Morenos campaign. It became a running joke how many times we heard J.D. sent me from donors both in Ohio and around the country, Cliff Sims, who helped lead the pro-Moreno Buckeye Values PAC, told Axios. Vance also met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, the former presidents residence and private social club in Palm Beach, Florida, and convinced him to support Moreno over Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, who finished third. Moreno faces incumbent Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat, in November.

The Republican State Leadership Committee is advising candidates not solely to attack President Joe Biden on the campaign trail but, rather, to bolster their messaging with affirmations for the GOP, according to Axios. Steer clear of making the election a singular referendum on Joe Biden, committee president Dee Duncan advised in a memo. Duncan added that candidates should not use the president as your crutch and attributed Republicans underwhelming showing in the 2022 midterm elections to only hitting Biden. The RSLC focuses on boosting Republican candidates in state legislative races.

RFK Jr. Introduces Long-Awaited VP Pick

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tapped California attorney Nicole Shanahan (left) as his running mate during an event in Oakland, California, on March 26, 2024. (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Tuesday announced Nicole Shanahan as his running mate for his third-party bid against President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

The announcement came at a rally in Oakland, California, where Shanahan, a wealthy 38-year-old Silicon Valley patent lawyer, grew up as the child of a low-income family. She has described herself as a progressive through and through and has the pedigree to match. Her Bia-Echo Foundation, where she serves as president, focuses chiefly on investment in reproductive technologies, criminal justice reform, and environmental health.

Democrats fear Kennedys candidacy could siphon votes from Biden and give Trump an advantage in key swing states, though the independent contender insists he is running to win.

Our independent run for the presidency is finally going to bring down the Democratic and Republican duopoly that gave us this ruinous debt, chronic disease, endless wars, lockdowns mandates, agency capturethe same Trump-Biden uniparty that has captured and appropriated democracy and turned it over to Blackrock, State Street, and Vanguard and the other corporate donors, Kennedy claimed. Nicole Shanahan will help me rally support for our revolution against the uniparty rule from both ends of the right and left political spectrum.

Taking the stage after Kennedy, Shanahan said she was thankful her running mate took up her niche policy interests, especially regarding toxic chemicals in the soil (about which she has produced two films).

Healthy soil is the foundation of healthy food. It is the foundation of a healthy ecosystem, and it is our answer to the climate crisis. It is the foundation of a healthy economy, she said. But what politician besides Bobby Kennedy do you ever hear talking about soil? None!

Shanahan also said that she was leaving the Democratic party, accusing its members of having lost their way in their leadership. Before joining Kennedys campaign she was active in Democratic politics, giving money to then-presidential candidates Pete Buttigieg, Marianne Williamson, and Joe Biden, all in 2020. Her last Democratic contribution was to Rep. Ro Khanna of California in April 2023.

In recent months, though, Shanahan has used her wealth to boost Kennedy. Her $4 million donation to American Values 2024the super PAC supporting Kennedyhelped finance the acclaimed vintage-style Super Bowl ad that riffed on a famous commercial from the 1960 campaign of his uncle, President John F. Kennedy.

Some Democrats, during a subsequent conference call organized by the Democratic National Committee, seized on the fact that Shanahan is a Kennedy donor, suggesting he picked her to join his ticket because she has deep pockets that could fund his campaign.

Lets also be very clear who this vice presidential pick is, said Rep. Robert Garcia of California. I mean, were talking about someone that has been a megadonor already to his own super-PAC. He is out of money. He is not raising the funds he needs. So of course hes going to turn to donors.

Garcia and others on the call, such as Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, also disputed that Kennedy was running to win, arguing he was in the race to play spoiler and block Biden from a second term. In other words, they said, Kennedy is running to help Trump.

He has no realistic path to victory in Pennsylvania, said Davis. All he can do is take away votes from President Biden and make it easier for Donald Trump to win. And we simply cant afford to let that happen.

Kennedy is garnering 10 percent nationally in the RealClearPolitics polling average and has struggled to get his name on the ballot. His campaign has said it has enough signatures to qualify in several states, but so far he is only officially on the ballot in Utah. His announcement of Shanahan comes amid a dispute with Nevada over the states ballot.

The Great (Republican) Resignation

House Republicans are in the majority. They control all House committees. Donald Trump, their partys presumptive presidential nominee, leads President Joe Biden in most polling. And yet some of them cant quit Congress fast enough.

Rep. Mike Gallagher is just the latest to bolt before his term is up. Despite serving as chairman of a high-profile and influential special select committee formed to address the national security threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party, the Wisconsin Republican announced he would resign April 19 to take a job in the private sector. Gallagher, 40, was already planning to retire at the conclusion of the 118th Congress rather than seek a fifth term. But apparently the once-rising Republican star couldnt wait any longer, preferring to speed up his House exit by nine months.

Hes not the only one.

Ken Buck, a Colorado Republican, also resigned from the House this month after previously announcing he would forgo reelection despite, he says, having no immediate job prospects. Meanwhile Bill Johnson, an Ohio Republican, resigned in January to become president of Youngstown State University. That followed Kevin McCarthys resignation in December, which followed him being ousted as House speaker in October and not wanting to stick around Capitol Hill as a lowly back-bencher.

Aside from the spate of resignations, 18 House Republicans are leaving at years end, per a casualty list maintained by the House press gallery. Whats remarkable is that some of these members are choosing to call it a career at the apex of their influence and seniority, when theyre in the best position to shape and pass legislation (though in this dysfunctional congress, theres little opportunity to do so).

Departing members include Rep. Kay Granger of Texas, who last week stepped down as chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee; Rep. Patrick McHenry of North Carolina, chairman of the House Financial Services Committee; Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer of Missouri, who was the frontrunner to replace McHenry as the top Republican on Financial Services; Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington state, chairwoman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Also on their way out are near-universally respected Reps. Michael Burgess of Texas and Brad Wenstrup of Ohio.

Rep. Mark Green of Tennessee, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, had also called it quits before fellow Republicans prevailed on him to reverse course and run for reelection.

Its not just House Republicans who are seemingly fed up with their jobs. Two dozen House Democrats are headed out the door as well, while two have already resigned mid-term.

So, how does the take this job and shove it mentality that seems to have overtaken the 118th Congress compare to past congresses? The Congressional Research Service has some statistics on the matter, dating to the 101st Congress that met in 1989 and 1990. Heres a selection of congresses in which the resignations and retirements by Democrats and Republicans were relatively robust:

101st Congress: nine resignations and 15 retired.

102nd Congress: Seven resignations and 51 retirements

103rd Congress: Six resignations and 28 retirements

104th Congress: Eight resignations and 32 retirements

111th Congress: 12 resignations and 19 retirements

115th Congress: 15 resignations and 32 retirements

116th Congress: Eight resignations and 28 retirements

In other words, the total resignations and retirements so far this Congress arent necessarily breaking recordsat least not yet. Still, the number of veteran Republicans positioned to wield legislative power who are headed for the door is unusual in light of the facts that political prognosticators are not forecasting a Democratic wave on November 5, and some Republican insiders are bullish on the partys chances of expanding its razor-thin majority.

Notable and Quotable

Happy Holy Week! Lets Make America Pray Again. As we lead into Good Friday and Easter, I encourage you to get a copy of the God Bless The USA Bible. Former President Donald Trump in a Tuesday Truth Social post.

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Robert F. Kennedy Jr., 70, is John F. Kennedy's nephew.

He is a lawyer known for promoting baseless anti-vaccine conspiracy theories.

Kennedy was running against Biden in the Democratic primaries, then switched to an independent.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an environmental lawyer who has promoted baseless public-health conspiracy theories and anti-vaccine misinformation, is running for president.

Despite his fringe views, Kennedy's lineage as a member of one of America's most prominent political families has helped boost his bizarre claims about vaccines, COVID-19, and other public health issues.

Here's a closer look at Kennedy's family history and controversial statements. Kennedy's campaign did not respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a member of one of America's most famous political dynasties.

President Kennedy with his nephew, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., in the Oval Office in 1961. CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images

Kennedy is the son of Robert F. Kennedy, a US senator who was assassinated in 1968, and Ethel Kennedy, a human-rights advocate who received a Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in 2014. He is the third of the couple's 11 children, according to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.

Kennedy is also former President John F. Kennedy's nephew.

As an environmental lawyer, his work focused on clean water.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks during a press conference for the 25th anniversary of Earth Day in 1995 in Washington, DC. Larry Busacca/Getty Images

Kennedy went to Harvard, then studied at the London School of Economics. He received his law degree from the University of Virginia Law School and earned a master's degree in environmental law from Pace University School of Law.

He founded the environmental nonprofit Waterkeeper Alliance in 1999, according to the organization's official website. His primary achievement was forcing the closure of the Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant, but his advocacy for water issues has, over the past decade, become largely subsumed by an obsession with vaccines.

A longtime anti-vaxxer, Kennedy continues to promote conspiracy theories about the COVID-19 pandemic.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testifies during a public hearing about vaccine-related bills in 2015. Carl D. Walsh/Portland Portland Press Herald via Getty Images

Kennedy has long espoused anti-vaccine views, suggesting a flu vaccine may have caused his voice disorder (he has spasmodic dysphonia, a rare neurological disorder). But he rose to prominence during the pandemic for his opposition to COVID-19 vaccines, Time reported.

In 2005, he wrote an article published on Salon claiming that the mercury-based thimerosal compound in vaccines causes autism. After issuing multiple corrections, Salon eventually retracted the piece.

Kennedy founded the anti-vaccine group Children's Health Defense, originally named the World Mercury Project, in 2011. In 2022, Facebook and Instagram removed the nonprofit's social-media pages, saying it had repeatedly violated Meta's medical-misinformation policies, The New York Times reported.

In a 2022 speech opposing vaccination mandates, Kennedy said, "Even in Hitler's Germany you could cross the Alps into Switzerland, you could hide in an attic like Anne Frank did." He subsequently apologized for invoking the Holocaust, Reuters reported.

At a press event held at a New York City restaurant in July, Kennedy told the crowd that COVID-19 may have been "ethnically targeted" to attack certain groups of people, The New York Post reported.

"COVID-19 is targeted to attack Caucasians and Black people," he said. "The people who are most immune are Ashkenazi Jews and Chinese."

"We don't know whether it was deliberately targeted or not, but there are papers out there that show the racial and ethnic differential and impact," he continued.

In a statement to The Post, the Anti-Defamation League called Kennedy's remarks "deeply offensive," saying they feed into the "sinophobic and antisemitic conspiracy theories about COVID-19 that we have seen evolve over the last three years."

He has promoted a number of other baseless public-health conspiracy theories, including claims that WiFi causes cancer and antidepressants are to blame for mass shootings.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks against legislation to narrow exemptions to state mandated vaccines during a rally in Albany, New York, in 2019. AP Photo/Hans Pennink

In a Twitter Spaces conversation hosted by Elon Musk in June, Kennedy likened Musk's purchase of Twitter, now known as X, to patriots who died fighting in the American Revolution. He also attributed increased numbers of mass shootings to pharmaceutical companies for marketing antidepressants, Business Insider's John Cook reported.

"Prior to the introduction of Prozac we had almost none of these events in our country," he said.

Later that month, in an appearance on "The Joe Rogan Experience" podcast, Kennedy claimed that "WiFi radiation does all kind of bad things, including causing cancer."

Kennedy also told CNN in July that environmental "endocrine disruptors" were causing "sexual confusion" and "gender confusion" in children, misconstruing studies that have shown these chemicals can cause some male frogs to become female and produce eggs.

A Kennedy campaign spokesperson told CNN that his remarks were "mischaracterized," and that he was "merely suggesting that, given copious research on the effects on other vertebrates, this possibility deserves further research."

He has been married three times and has six children.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his wife, Cheryl Hines, arrive at HBO's Post Emmy Awards Reception in Los Angeles, California, in 2018. Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Kennedy married fellow University of Virginia Law School student Emily Black in 1982 and had two children, Robert Francis "Bobby" Kennedy III and Kathleen, known as "Kick." They divorced in 1994.

That same year, he married interior designer Mary Richardson. The couple had four children: Conor, Kyra, Finn, and Aidan. Kennedy filed for divorce in 2010.

Kennedy is now married to "Curb Your Enthusiasm" actor Cheryl Hines, whom he wed in 2014, The New York Times reported.

In 2022, following his comments about Anne Frank, Hines denounced the remarks, calling them "reprehensible and insensitive," CNN reported.

But she has supported his bid for the White House, saying in a statement in April, "My husband, Robert Kennedy Jr. announced today he will be running for President and I support his decision," according to People magazine.

Kennedy initially announced his candidacy against President Joe Biden in the Democratic primaries in a long-shot campaign.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announces his candidacy for president of the United States in a speech at Boston Park Plaza in 2023. David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Kennedy announced his 2024 presidential campaign in April 2023 at Boston's Park Plaza Hotel.

"My mission over the next 18 months of this campaign and throughout my presidency will be to end the corrupt merger of state and corporate power that is threatening now to impose a new kind of corporate feudalism in our country," he said in his speech, CBS News reported.

Kennedy acknowledged that some of his family members do not support his presidential bid, but that he harbors "no ill will or any kind of disappointment" towards them.

He has since switched to running as an independent.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks during a campaign event in California. Thos Robinson/Getty Images for The Democratic National Committee

In October, Kennedy announced that he was no longer running for president as a Democrat.

"I must declare my own independence," he said at a campaign event in Philadelphia, The Hill reported. "Independence from the Democratic Party. And from all other political parties."

Other Kennedy family members have denounced his views and opposed his candidacy.

Kerry Kennedy speaks at the 2021 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Award Gala. Evan Agostini/Invision/AP

One of Kennedy's sisters, Kerry Kennedy, released a statement condemning his "deplorable and untruthful remarks" after he claimed COVID-19 was "ethnically targeted" to certain races.

In a statement to Business Insider's Alia Shoaib, Kerry Kennedy also shared that she would not be supporting his campaign.

"I love my brother Bobby, but I do not share or endorse his opinions on many issues, including the COVID pandemic, vaccinations and the role of social media platforms in policing false information," she said.

Former Rep. Joe Kennedy III of Massachusetts also posted on X that his uncle's comments were "hurtful and wrong."

In March, he named California attorney Nicole Shanahan as his vice presidential running mate.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Nicole Shanahan with their spouses at a campaign event in March 2024. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Nicole Shanahan founded the patent technology company ClearAccessIP in 2013.

She also founded the Bia-Echo Foundation in 2019 to fund programs dedicated to criminal justice reform, reproductive research, and addressing the climate crisis.

Shanahan has donated to Democratic candidates such as Pete Buttigieg and Marianne Williamson since 2018, but told Newsweek she plans to leave the Democratic party.

"I want somebody who will look out for young people and not treat them as if they're invisible," Kennedy told Newsweek of his decision to choose Shanahan as his running mate. "She's just 38 years old; she comes from technology and understands social media."

Read the original article on Business Insider
The sister of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is worried that her brother will act as an election disrupter and take votes away from President Biden as he mounts an independent bid against him.

When asked by CNNs Erin Burnett about why she believes voting for her brother is dangerous, Rory Kennedy said she believes his campaign is siphoning votes from Biden. Kennedy launched an independent bid for the White House last fall after failing to gain momentum on a Democratic ticket.

I feel strongly that this is the most important election of our lifetime. And theres so much at stake, and I do think its going to come down to a handful of votes and a handful of states, she said Monday on CNN.

And I do worry that Bobby just taking some percentage of votes from Biden could shift the election and lead to Trumps election, she added.

A three-way race between Biden, former President Trump and Kennedy shows Trump with a narrow lead over Biden, according to The Hill/Decision Desk HQs polling average. Trump has 40.5 percent support, Biden has 38.6 percent and Kennedy has 9.8 percent in the same average.

Kennedy has often been at odds with his family over his long-shot bid for the White House. His family members denounced his decision to run as an independent in October and have been frequently outspoken about his candidacy.

Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision or judgment. Todays announcement is deeply saddening for us. We denounce his candidacy and believe it to be perilous for our country, a statement, signed by four of Kennedys siblings, said last year.

Biden hosted 30 members of the Kennedy family at the White House for a St. Patricks Day celebration earlier this month, but the independent candidate for president was notably absent. Kennedy said at the time that the gathering was only a small percentage of his family.

Members of Kennedys family also criticized an ad run by a super PAC backing his independent bid during the Super Bowl last month, prompting him to issue an apology for the ad.

The Hill has reached out to Kennedys campaign for comment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s improbable bid for the presidency always looked more like a vanity project than a political campaign.

His pick for a running mate Tuesday only confirmed that.

Nicole Shanahan, a Silicon Valley tech entrepreneur with very deep pockets, serves as a perfect mirror for Kennedy's conspiratorial take on politics and corporations and medicine and America.

She used her political coming out party in Oakland, California, to suggest that one of the causes of her own daughter's autism was vaccines and medicine typically given to children. This is right in line with the controversial and contested views Kennedy has espoused for years.

Kennedy's kindred spirit also has the cash to keep his campaign going. Shanahan, who was formerly married to Google co-founder Sergey Brin, had donated about $4 million to Kennedy and helped pay for more than half of a $7 million commercial for his campaign during the Super Bowl.

As running mates go, they're made for each other. She shares his odd views and can pay for his platform, feeding him validation and attention.

As politicians, they have no chance to win but every chance to tilt November's election, likely in Donald Trump's favor.

Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announces his running mate, Nicole Shanahan, in Oakland, Calif., on Mar 26, 2024.

Kennedy complains about media coverage and Democrats

Kennedy and his warm-up speakers speechified for nearly two hours Tuesday before any of his supporters actually saw Shanahan. It was standard fare with plenty of complaints about the media not casting Kennedy as a serious contender.

Kennedy leaned hard into his family's historic political legacy, his lineage as the nephew of a president and son of a man killed while seeking the presidency in 1968.

Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is an environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist.

The part he left out there: The Kennedy family wants him to just stop with it all, disavowing him after the Super Bowl ad. Why else would they stop by the White House on Saint Patrick's Day to pose for smiling photographs with President Joe Biden?

No Labels, no candidate: Is No Labels an elaborate grift with no candidate? Their secrecy is telling.

Kennedy was keen to play the victim, complaining Tuesday that the Democratic Party and supportive super PACs are mobilizing to marginalize him, using healthy fundraising to campaign against him and fight his effort to get on the ballot state by state.

In other words, a third-generation scion of a famous political family complained about having to face  gasp!  politics while running for president. He sounded like the captain of a yacht complaining about salt water on his hull.

Don't call Kennedy a spoiler this election, even if he sort of is a spoiler this election

Kennedy is polling at about 10%, according to an average of polls compiled by The Hill. But he is outraged to be called a spoiler, even though his campaign has been funded by some of Trump's wealthiest supporters.

"Our campaign is a spoiler. I agree with that," Kennedy said. "It's a spoiler for President Biden and for President Trump."

That just doesn't match reality. Third-party candidates can impact an election. But the math does not work for them winning it all.

Nicole Shanahan and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. face a tough road ahead

Shanahan sounded like a person who meant well. She has a compelling story, the daughter of a Chinese immigrant mother and and a father of German-Irish descent who suffered from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

She's a political novice, and a former Biden donor, who left the Democratic Party and sounded more than a little nervous about the road ahead. I don't envy the experience she's about to have.

The issue of religion this election: Americans want a religious president. They just don't see Trump or Biden that way.

The Democratic National Committee hosted a media call moments after Shanahan stopped speaking. U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia, a California Democrat, knocked Kennedy as a "tinfoil hat conspiracy theorist" and said Shanahan "just doubled down on these anti-vaccine conspiracies and anti-health agenda."

Austin Davis, a Democrat and Pennsylvania's lieutenant governor, said Kennedy is "trying to coast on his family's legacy" after being "drafted into this race by Donald Trump's top supporters."

Shanahan is also upset with Democrats and the media

Shanahan didn't address her potential as part of a spoiler ticket. And she made only a passing mention of her considerable resources, telling the crowd, "As you probably know, I became very wealthy later on in life." (She's 38 years old.)

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She sounded genuinely disillusioned with the Democratic Party, which she said "as an institution, it has lost its way." But the more she spoke, the more it became clear the way she wanted was a conformity to the views she shares with Kennedy. She wasn't getting her way. So she took her bank account and jumped ship.

Consider her take on Kennedy just a year ago  she didn't have one.

"I really didn't think much of Bobby Kennedy because I didn't know much about him," Shanahan said. "All I had was a mainstream media narrative that was effectively telling me horrible, disparaging things."

But then a friend said she should listen to an interview where Kennedy spoke his mind. And she liked what she heard, so much that she decided views offered about Kennedy that didn't suit her amounted to "media slander of his character."

She clearly cares deeply now about his image. What else could a vanity-project candidate ask for in a running mate?

Follow USA TODAY elections columnist Chris Brennan on X, formerly known as Twitter: @ByChrisBrennan

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Who is Nicole Shanahan? RFK Jr. picks perfect VP for his losing effort
German armament concern Rheinmetall has revealed that it will receive more than 130 million from the European Union to increase ammunition production.

Source: Rheinmetall's announcement on 26 March, European Pravda reports

Rheinmetall will receive the funding under the Act of Support in Ammunition Production (ASAP), which was adopted by the EU last year to boost European defence production, including 155 mm artillery ammunition and missiles.

Read also: Ukraine may receive 1.5 million ammunition rounds via Czech initiative

The German concern will invest in six projects of its subsidiaries in Europe, namely in Germany, Hungary, Romania, and Spain, the press release said. The first agreements are expected to be signed in May 2024.

Rheinmetall noted that it aims to produce up to 1.1 million artillery shells a year by 2027. In addition, starting in 2026, the concern plans to annually produce up to 1.5 million rocket fuel modules and 3,000 tonnes of RDX explosives.

Background:

In February, construction began on a new Rheinmetall plant in Germany, which will increase Germany's capacity to produce artillery shells.

The concern is also reportedly planning to open at least four plants in Ukraine.

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By Xinhua writer Wang Siyuan

BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Inspired by China's efforts in opening-up and fostering innovation, British biopharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca is committed to the Chinese market.

"AstraZeneca has been present in China for over 30 years. In that time, China has become an important growth engine," said Pascal Soriot, CEO of the company, in an exclusive interview with Xinhua.

Soriot attended the two-day China Devlopment Forum (CDF) 2024, an annual high-level international conference, which concluded on Monday, seeking to identifying new partnerships and opportunities.

"It serves as an excellent platform for international exchange and cooperation," said Soriot.

"Over recent years, we have witnessed the Chinese government's continued commitment to opening-up and its strong determination to attract and utilize foreign investment to promote trade cooperation," he said.

"This has helped to instill confidence in China's economic growth and AstraZeneca's continued investment here," said Soriot.

Making strides in new quality productive forces, which feature high-tech, high efficiency and high quality, is high on China's agenda this year, and Soriot considers it a "tremendously exciting and important in the field of healthcare."

"We are here because China is at the forefront of using artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy to shape the future of healthcare, and we believe that Chinese-born innovation can help millions of patients worldwide," he said.

AstraZeneca recently concluded an agreement to invest 475 million U.S. dollars in the construction of a new small molecule factory in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, east China, which will focus on sustainable manufacturing. Last year, it announced an investment of 700 million U.S. dollars for an inhaled medicines manufacturing site in Qingdao.

In February, it announced that Shanghai had become its fifth global strategic site.

"China possesses a wealth of innovative talent and enormous market potential, all of which helps support the growth of our research and development efforts in the country," said Soriot.

The company signed a memorandum of understanding for strategic cooperation with its Chinese partners during the CDF to explore modes of collaboration in vaccines.

"AstraZeneca is proud to be 'in China for China' and to be playing a leading role in bringing new medicines to Chinese patients as well as Chinese innovation to the world," he said. 
Richard Serra with one of his pieces at the Moma Sculpture Garden in New York in 2007 - David Corio/Redferns

Richard Serra, the American sculptor, who has died aged 85, was best known for transforming vast slabs of steel, twisting them into awe-inspiring torqued ellipses, spirals, curves and other shapes, making vast, dense pieces of metal seem improbably pliable and austerely beautiful.

Serra was held in enormous regard by fellow artists and critics and his work was designed to give visitors a physical as much as a visual experience. He wanted the public to walk around and between his austere rust-coloured metal sculptures, so that the pieces appearance would change in relation to each other and the space. The effect could be disorienting and unsettling, the huge metal forms looming over the visitor then closing in or veering away  but no one could leave feeling indifferent.

Entering a Serra exhibition was a bit like getting lost in a working shipyard, which was no accident. As a boy Richard had been taken by his father, a fitter in a shipyard, to see the launch of a new liner. Serra remembered the great steel bow sliding down the chute and knew that all the raw material I needed was contained in that memory.

Serra's controversial piece Tilted Arc, at Federal Plaza in New York in 1985: after much vitriol it was dismantled and put into storage - Robert R McElroy/Getty Images

Richard Antony Serra was born in San Francisco on November 2 1938, the second of three sons of a Spanish father and Russian mother. After high school he studied English literature at the University of California, first at Berkeley then at Santa Barbara, where one of his tutors was Aldous Huxley. To finance his studies Serra worked in a rivet gang in a steel mill, and throughout his life he would return to the mill to learn about new techniques.

As a side interest at Santa Barbara, Serra took up painting under Rico Lebrun and Howard Warshaw in the art department. After graduation in 1961 he sent his portfolio to Yale, where he won a scholarship to study painting, mentored by the abstract expressionist painter Jack Tworkov, whose contacts within the New York School meant that he could call upon such figures as Frank Stella, Robert Rauschenberg and Philip Guston as visiting lecturers.

Serra graduated in 1964 with a BA in art history, a Master of Fine Arts degree, a travelling fellowship and a Fulbright Scholarship which took him to Paris. There he studied the work of Brancusi and Giacometti and became friendly with the avant-garde composer Philip Glass. In 1966 he lived for a time in Rome, where he was influenced by the composer John Cages theories about chance in art, a concept extensively explored by Jackson Pollock, whose work impressed Serra when he visited a show by the artist at the Galleria La Salita.

Wake, at the Olympic Sculpture Park, Seattle - UrbanImages/Alamy

However, during a trip to Madrid in 1966, Serra visited the Prado Museum and saw Velazquezs Las Meninas and decided he could never match the artists skill and moved away from painting to sculpture, mounting his first solo show  mainly consisting of cages containing live and stuffed animals  at the Galleria La Salita.

Returning to the US towards the end of the year, he moved to New York at a time when minimalism was taking over from abstract expressionism. His early pieces, consisting of strips of metal, rubber and tubing arranged in random patterns, did not impress. But after he was taken up by the Leo Castelli Gallery, Serra began attracting attention.

In Scatter Piece (1967) he flung rubber and latex across the gallery floor in a gesture analogous to Pollocks action-painting. He also published a verb list of 84 transitive verbs (cast, roll, tear, prop, etc) identifying sculptural possibilities, and 24 phrases such as of tension, of gravity, of entropy that defined external forces that might shape a work. He then explored these through series such as Tearing Lead (1968) and Splashed Lead (1969), art designed to encourage the spectator to contemplate the process of creation.

Serras Skullcracker Series (1969), its name taken from the Californian steel yard which supplied the raw material, established the themes that were to make his reputation. Steel had often been used in sculpture, but had been used pictorially. Serra wanted to bring it back home.

Serra in Matthew Barney's film Cremaster 3 (2002) - Photo 12/Alamy

Using a magnetic crane, he stacked 20ft towers weighing 200 tons of irregularly shaped slabs of crop  waste steel from the hot rolled mill  so that they leaned dangerously but did not topple. Standing before Stacked Steel Slabs (1969) the spectator was uncomfortably aware of their weight and the imminent possibility of collapse, but Serras triumph lay in their extraordinary balance, their unfulfilled threat. One-Ton Prop (House of Cards) (1969) consisted of four rectangular plates of lead leaning against each other to create a similar effect.

Gradually Serra began attracting public commissions. Although his natural habitat was industrial, one of his first commissions was for a landscape. Untitled (1971), a series of concrete walls set in a sloping field, taught him the importance of context and how sculpture can augment or confront it. Preparing a piece Serra could spend up to three years walking a site, another year demarcating the space he wanted to use and two more years deciding what to put in it.

Encouraged by his success outdoors he began making public works for urban spaces. Terminal (1977), a 41ft steel four-plate on a traffic island in Bochum, West Germany, was censured as an ugly waste of money but T.W.U. (1980), a 36ft three-plate on a traffic island in SoHo, New York, and St Johns Rotary Arc (1980), a 200ft-long, 12ft-high curved steel wall at the exit of the Holland Tunnel, New York, were warmly received.

East-West/West-East (2014), in Qatar - Sally Crane/Alamy

Not all his work went down so well in New York. When, repeating the wall idea, he laid a 120ft-long, 12ft-high steel wall  Tilted Arc (l981)  across the grim plaza of the Jacob K Javits Federal Building in downtown Manhattan, 1,300 office workers signed a petition asking for its removal and even Village Voice joined the protests, describing the work as so mistaken, so wrong, so bad.

Serra insisted that the sculpture had a truly lyrical line and argued that to move it would be to destroy it as it was site-specific. But the critics prevailed and after much vitriol the work was dismantled and put into storage. The concept would form the basis of Maya Lins hugely successful Vietnam War Memorial in Washington.

It was not Serras first brush with controversy. In 1971, when a 34-year-old labourer was crushed to death by a two-ton steel plate while dismantling a Serra structure, the sculptor was attacked, ridiculed and advised by friends to stop working: It put me into analysis for seven years.

Asked to provide a monumental sculpture for a plaza adjacent to the Treasury in Washington in 1978, he clashed with the architect Robert Venturi, who wanted to put the Stars and Stripes on two pylons to frame the building, and resigned from the project protesting that his work was not ideological and that it related to sculpture and nothing else.

Visitors walk through Serra's piece The Matter of Time at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao - Rafa Rivas/AFP/Getty

Serra continued to produce works on paper, mostly monochrome images of geometric forms which were not always appreciated. A show of abstract black oils at the Serpentine Gallery in 1992 was described by one critic as the most unpleasant exhibition in London.

But attitudes toward modern art  even minimalist sculpture  changed enormously over Serras career and when Weight and Measure, 35- and 39-ton steel blocks, was exhibited in the two central sculpture halls at the Tate in 1992, it was deemed a triumph.

But it was his Torqued Ellipse series, begun in 1996 and consisting of assemblages of massive rust-coloured Cor-Ten steel plates turned into circular sculptures with open tops, that converted even the most sceptical critics. Serra credited the inspiration for the series to a visit in the early 1990s to the baroque church of San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane in Rome, where he found himself fascinated and disoriented by the relationship between Francesco Borrominis elliptical nave and dome. His sculptural take on this architectural oddity proved to be a major breakthrough for Serra as his sculptures now created contained spaces that people could walk into and explore.

Serra's piece for Pearson International Airport, Terminal 1, in Toronto - Shankar Adiseshan/Alamy

In 2000 Serra exhibited Torqued Ellipses at the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art, his single biggest show since 1986. In 2005 The Matter of Time, consisting of eight huge steel sculptures  torqued ellipses as well as spirals, the largest sculptural installation in the world  opened at the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Spain, to near-universal critical acclaim. Along the way the pieces, which remain on permanent exhibition, helped to solve a problem by filling a room which was far too big for any other work.

One of his last works was East-West/West-East (2014), four tall standing steel plates ranged across a kilometre of desert at the Brouq National Reserve in Qatar.

Alert to alternative media, Serra made two films to explore his ideas about industrialisation. Railway Turning (1976) placed a camera on a turnbridge as it revolved, while Steelmill/Stahlwerk (1979) luxuriated in the environment he knew best.

In 1964 Richard Serra married the sculptor Nancy Graves. The marriage was soon dissolved, and in 1981 he married the German-born art historian Clara Weyergraf, with whom he had collaborated on Steelmill/Stahlwerk. She survives him.

Richard Serra, born November 2 1938, died March 26 2024

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RNC co-chair Lara Trump speaks at the general session of the organizations spring meeting, on 8 March 2024.

RNC co-chair Lara Trump speaks at the general session of the organizations spring meeting, on 8 March 2024. Photograph: Michael Wyke/AP

A spokesperson for the Republican National Committee and Donald Trump did not deny a Washington Post report that said prospective RNC employees are being asked if they believe the 2020 election was stolen, constituting a litmus test as the 2024 election approaches.

Related: Trump got some good financial news this week. But theres a dark side | Margaret Sullivan

Candidates who worked on the frontline in battleground states or are currently in states where fraud allegations have been prevalent were asked about their work experience, Danielle Alvarez, a spokesperson for the RNC and Trump, said in a statement.

We want experienced staff with meaningful views on how elections are won and lost and real experience-based opinions about what happens in the trenches.

Trump has pursued his stolen election lie through his conclusive defeat by Biden; his attempts to overturn results in key states; his incitement of the deadly January 6 attack on Congress; his resulting impeachment and acquittal; his attempts to delay or avoid trial on four federal and 10 state criminal charges concerning election subversion; and his surge to a third successive presidential nomination.

He extended control over the RNC last month with the replacement of Ronna McDaniel by new co-chairs, his daughter-in-law Lara Trump and Michael Whatley, a loyalist from North Carolina.

Lara Trump told NBC on Tuesday the RNC was past disputing the 2020 election, adding: The past is the past and unfortunately we had to learn a couple of hard lessons in 2020.

But the Post said Trump aides were now asking election lie questions as they assess which former staffers will be rehired, as the presidential election grinds into gear.

Other questions for prospective hires focused on election integrity in the 2024 contest, the Post said.

Speaking to the Post, an unnamed prospective employee said two top Trump advisers posed the question directly, asking: Was the 2020 election stolen?

Two unnamed sources said questions were left open-ended.

But if you say the election wasnt stolen, do you really think youre going to get hired? a former RNC employee was quoted as saying.

CNN said it confirmed the Post report, saying sources described the 2020 question as unusual for a job interview but saw it as a way of questioning their loyalty to Donald Trump. Alvarez repeated her non-denial to CNN.

Doug Heye, a former RNC communications director, told the Post it was not unusual for staff to be expected to back the candidate up and go along with the worldview.

But Bill Kristol, anti-Trump conservative commentator, said prospective hires would now have no excuse for wanting to work [at the RNC] in 2024, given its open embrace of Trumps election lie.
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (ABC4)  Whether its action-packed or horror-filled, there is a lot to watch this weekend. ABC4 Film Critic Patrick Beatty lets us know what to see and what to skip.

Road House

Where to Watch: Prime Video

Directed By:

Doug Liman

Written By:

Anthony Bagarozzi, Chuck Mondry, R. Lance Hill

Starring:

Jake Gyllenhaal, Daniela Melchior, Conor McGregor

Genre:

Action, Thriller

Rated R

All media courtesy of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)

Jake Gyllenhaal stars as Dalton, a retired MMA boxer, whos tasked by Jessica Williams to help mitigate disasters in her roadside bar called Road House. His presence is calm, cool, and collected, but when trouble arrives, the very last thing youll want to do is make him angry.

This is a very loose adaptation of the original Road House starring Patrick Swayze, and while there is something here that makes the new Road House work, I cant call this anything other than its own story  one that is both simple and overcomplicated.

Jake Gyllenhaal makes the film work with his charisma and full immersion into the story. The fighting is filmed with creativity and steadiness, making you feel every punch and keeping you engaged throughout the film. Conor McGregor is the main villain, yet only appears in the 2nd half of the film. While he doesnt have the acting chops his costars do, he makes up for it in his fighting chemistry with Gyllenhaal.

This is a film you can skip 20 minutes of and still be able to follow along with whats happening. Whether that makes you excited to see it is up to you, but it just barely crosses that threshold for me.

See it or Skip it? See It

Immaculate

Where to Watch: Theaters

Directed By:

Michael Mohan

Written By:

Andrew Lobel

Starring:

Sydney Sweeney, Alvaro Morte, Simona Tabasco

Genre:

Horror

Rated R

All media courtesy of NEON Pictures

Immaculate stars Sydney Sweeny as a decently converted Nun who is arriving at an Italian countryside coven. While everyone seems incredibly kind and loving, this covens dark secrets come to life when shes given a miracle that upends her faith and puts her in imminent danger.

This is a film meant to offend and question religion. If you are devout and dont wish to see something endorsing that, then this is definitely not for you. There are lots of bloody, brutal, and squeamish scenes that work very well for this subgenre of horror and is developed well with good suspense-building.

Weve seen a lot of this type of film within horror, whether its The Exorcist, The Popes Exorcist, or The Nun, there isnt a lot in Immaculate that is done differently to set itself apart other than shock value. Sydney Sweeney does a great job, but I wish there were more built around her with a stronger supporting cast and more depth of characters. If you like horror, check this out, otherwise I would avoid it.

See it or Skip it? See It

Late Night With The Devil

Where to Watch: Theaters

Directed By:

Cameron Cairnes, Colin Cairnes

Written By:

Cameron Cairnes, Colin Cairnes

Starring:

David Dastmalchian, Laura Gordon, Ian Bliss

Genre:

Horror

Rated R

All media courtesy of IFC Films

David Dastmalchian is a late-night talk show host desperate to compete with Johnny Carson. His ratings continue to drop, and now in sweeps week, hes ready to throw a hail mary in order to boost viewership and save his show. How does he do that? By bringing in a possessed girl to perform a live, on-air exorcism and reveal a demon to the world. As the show progresses, everything is upended into horror as reality is questioned, in this small-budget horror film that is both entertaining and scary.

I loved the choice to have the movie essentially be through the audiences perspective. The runtime is shorter, but you feel completely immersed and the film takes on a realistic viewpoint. I appreciated the humor alongside the scares, and that the film wasnt afraid to be cheesy when it needed to be. The ending packs a wallop of a scary punch and will leave you haunted, and perhaps afraid to see another late-night show again.

See it or Skip it? See It

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
State Auditor Rob Sand is accusing Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird of playing politics by freezing payments for sexual assault victims' morning-after pills, saying she is hiding behind an audit to avoid accountability for her decision.

Sand, the sole Democrat in state office, criticized Bird, a Republican, for pausing those payments while her office conducts a review of victim services, which has been ongoing since she took office more than a year ago. In particular, Sand took issue with use of the term "audit" during his press conference Wednesday.

The attorney general's choice of word on this helps her avoid accountability for her decision on day one in office to quit paying for emergency contraception for sexual assault survivors," Sand told reporters at the Capitol.

Under the former Attorney General Tom Miller, who was defeated by Bird while seeking his 11th term in office, the state had covered the cost of emergency contraceptives and, in rare cases, abortions for sexual assault victims through the state's victim compensation fund. The fund uses fines and penalties paid by individuals convicted of crimes, and does not use any general taxpayer dollars.

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird speaks during an Iowa March for Life rally at the Iowa State Capitol on Saturday, June 24, 2023, in Des Moines.

Bird, a staunch abortion opponent, paused those payments while her office conducted a "top-down, bottom-up audit of victim assistance" to evaluate whether the policy as "an appropriate use of public funds," Bird's Communications Director Alyssa Brouillet has said.

The state auditor and Planned Parenthood are flat wrong," Brouillet said in a statement Wednesday. "It is a shame that the auditor is playing politics with a critical audit of victim services and blasting misinformation to boost his own profile. We will publicly release the report once it is final."

The Attorney General's Office confirmed to the Register last week it has a submitted draft of its victim services review, and the report is in its "final stages." However, officials declined to provide the draft as part of the Register's submitted public records request.

Brouillet wouldn't elaborate Wednesday on the draft report, saying instead that officials are still compiling materials and that the office will release the report to the public when it is complete.

"We are in the final stages of the audit, and will be publicly releasing the report as soon as it is final," she said in an email.

Bird has remained firm in her decision to pause those payments while her office conducts the audit, even as victim services advocates have expressed concern on the potential impact on victims.

The trauma and the pain the attorney general's decision is putting victims through in this case literally makes my skin crawl," Sand said Wednesday.

State Auditor Rob Sand at the Iowa State Capitol in January.

Other opponents have also called for Bird to resume payments. Planned Parenthood Advocates of Iowa denounced the move in a recent statement, calling it "deplorable."

The Attorney General's Office's use of the term "audit" has led to questions on whether the state auditor's office is involved, Sand said. He said Bird has never asked his office to audit payments for sexual assault victim's emergency contraception, and there is no other party involved.

He said an "internal review" is a more accurate characterization for the attorney general's inquiry.

Sand said governments, school districts or other agencies undergoing an audit typically do not pause funding or otherwise stop ongoing operations during their annual audits. And given the small amount of funding used to cover the cost for morning-after pills, he said there's not a high risk for fraud or misspent funds within that program.

There's been no suggestion whatsoever, that there was anything inappropriate going on in the decades that Attorney General Miller was providing reimbursements for sexual assault survivors use of emergency contraception," he said.

Over-the-counter emergency contraception includes Plan B.

Sand added, At this point to me, it's abundantly clear that whatever is going on over there is politics."

Michaela Ramm covers health care for the Des Moines Register. She can be reached at mramm@registermedia.com, at (319) 339-7354 or on Twitter at @Michaela_Ramm

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa auditor condemns payment pause for victims' emergency birth control
The head of the High Qualification Commission of Judges, Roman Ihnatov, has resigned, judicial outlet Graty reported on March 27.

The HQCJ granted his resignation during a meeting on March 27. Ihnatov himself said that he submitted his resignation letter on March 25 without any outside influence.



This is my decision, which was gradually formed and on March 25 found its conclusion in the form of a notice, he said.

Ihnatov has been the head of the HQCJ for less than nine months. Prior to that, he was a judge of the Kyiv Court of Appeal and will return there after his dismissal.

What is known about the scandal with the HQCJ heads Russian passport

Read also: Former Supreme Court judge held Russian citizenship  report

News agency ZN.UA reported in December 2023 that the HQCJ had received a letter from the Foreign Intelligence Service stating that Ihnatov held Russian citizenship. Ihnatov himself denied this.

Investigators of Radio Libertys Skhemy project reported that Ihnatov had never received Russian citizenship and had only an old Soviet passport.

The HQCJ working group also found no confirmation of this information.

Ihnatov was elected head of the High Qualification Commission of Judges in June 2023.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Prosecutors in California say the Romanian mafia has given a new look to an old scam  debit card skimming  by placing devices to steal personal information on self-checkout machines in grocery stores.

Debit card skimmers have long been problematic at gas stations and ATMs. Now a highly organized network of crooks is branching out.

"Theyll have people sitting outside a Walmart or a Target, and it looks like theyre panhandling," prosecutors told Fox News Digital. "Sometimes theyll have a couple of kids. And they are actually using Bluetooth technology thats connected to the skimmers inside the stores. So it's like a two for one, getting cash that people give them and stealing the numbers off the skimmers."

BURGLARY TOURISM PLAGUES SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA AS UNVETTED FOREIGNERS RAID LUXE HOUSES

Surveillance video obtained by the El Cajon Police Department shows suspects can place a skimmer over the checkout's credit card swipe in just seconds  and they look almost exactly like the real thing.

Police recommend tugging on a credit card swipe before inserting your card. If it wobbles or comes off, it's fake.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Authorities say they've already busted dozens of suspects, most of them with ties to organized crime in Romania.

And despite large busts in December and January of dozens of suspects in the U.S., Europe and Mexico, where they are teaming up with cartels in tourist hot spots like Tulum, the thefts are increasing as thieves double down on their efforts, authorities said.

They could be raking in up to $9 million a month  much of it at taxpayers' expense.

The skimmers, which can target EBT card users as well, have allegedly drained accounts the moment that the state releases monthly payments, according to Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer's office, which announced a major crackdown on such crimes earlier this year. As a result, more than $100 million worth of thefts robbed taxpayer-funded welfare programs and their recipients.

"The victims are single mothers struggling to put a roof over their children's heads and food on the table and hardworking people who need a helping hand who find themselves standing at the checkout line with bags full of groceries only to be humiliated when they find that they have no money in their account because a thief has surreptitiously taken everything," Spitzer said in a statement. "Meanwhile, the thieves are using this money to fund organized crime, to buy luxury cars worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, and to lead a life of luxury that the true recipients can only dream about."

On top of that, the porous southern border gives the mobsters a steady supply of new muscle, while a combination of lax bail policies and incomplete criminal records allow members to cut off their ankle monitors and flee justice if they get arrested.

LOS ANGELES SQUATTERS SENT PACKING AS HOME INSPECTORS ENTER, CHANGE LOCKS, VIDEO SHOWS

"Thousands of criminals suspected to be tied to organized Romanian crime have been identified to be in the United States, with a large portion of them entering the United States illegally, mainly through the southern border," Kimberly Edds, the director of public affairs for Spitzer's office, told Fox News Digital. "A smaller portion of this population is entering as asylum seekers."

ILLEGAL MASTERMINDS OF NYC ROBBERY RING HACKED BANK APPS, RESOLD STOLEN PHONES OVERSEAS

A group of Southern California counties, including Orange, Riverside, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, has seen about 15% of the Romanian mob's activity within the US., she said.

In addition to sending stolen money back to Romania to fund luxe lifestyles and European sports cars, the crooks are also trading in food stamps for baby formula and energy drinks, which are then resold in Mexico in an alliance with local cartels.

Many of them even flaunt their ill-gotten gains on TikTok, including a 14-year-old suspect who police captured driving a $250,000 sports car and wearing a Rolex.

One of the men implicated in the plot was already on Romania's most wanted list  Florin Duduianu.

RAM RAIDING AND CRASH AND GRAB NEW VIOLENT BURGLARY TREND TARGETING BRICK-AND-MORTAR BUSINESSES

The 39-year-old was convicted in January after police watched him make multiple withdrawals using different cards from the same ATM in Placentia, about 30 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. They caught him with four Visa gift cards that had been reprogrammed into clones of four different victims' debit cards.

Duduianu is expected to get 30 years in federal prison at his sentencing later this week, according to the Justice Department.

In December, the FBI announced it was partnering with Romanian police to raid dozens of locations in the European country connected to the California skimming thefts.

The joint operation resulted in 48 arrests and the recovery of more than $1 million and 11 luxury vehicles.

Aerial panoramic view of Cancun's hotel zone and Playa Caracol and Kukulcan Road along the Riviera Maya in Mexico's Quintana Roo region on the Yucatan Peninsula.

CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Many of the suspects arrested in Romania also had ties to Mexico's Riviera Maya gang, which itself is blamed for millions of dollars in skimming thefts in tourist hot spots that are popular with Americans, including Tulum and Cancun in Quintana Roo.

The gang's leader, Florian Tudor, is awaiting trial on fraud charges in Mexico and is wanted for attempted murder in Romania, as well.

Fox News' Elyse Perry contributed to this report.





Original article source: Romanian mob is coming for your debit cards, with ATM-style skimmers now at self-checkouts: authorities warn
Two weeks after the 2020 presidential election, Ronna McDaniel, then chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC), let Rudy Giuliani, Donald Trump's lawyer, hold a press conference at the RNC's headquarters in Washington, D.C. During that bizarre presentation, Giuliani and Sidney Powell, another member of the Trump campaign's "elite strike force team," crystallized the craziness of the president's stolen-election fantasy by describing a baroque international conspiracy that supposedly had delivered a fraudulent victory to Joe Biden.

On January 29, 2021, three weeks after angry Trump supporters who believed that fantasy invaded the U.S. Capitol as Congress was about to affirm Biden's election, McDaniel expressed regret about hosting Giuliani's clown show. "When I saw some of the things Sidney was saying, without proof, I certainly was concerned it was happening in my building," she told The New York Times. "There are a whole host of issues we had to deal with: What is the liability of the RNC, if these allegations are made and [prove to be] unfounded?"

That incident reflects McDaniel's ambiguous role in promoting Trump's baseless claims of decisive election fraud in the two months prior to the Capitol riot. Her support for those claims, which stopped short of outright endorsement but nevertheless lent them credibility, was at the center of the complaints that yesterday persuaded NBC executives to abruptly rescind their decision to hire her as an on-air commentator.

As Reason's Robby Soave noted after several NBC and MSNBC personalities publicly objected to McDaniel's gig, it is not at all unusual for news outlets to hire former party or White House officials. But McDaniel critics such as Chuck Todd, Joe Scarborough, and Rachel Maddow argued that giving her a forum on NBC was different from that standard practice because she had assisted Trump's efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election, undermining democracy by threatening the peaceful transfer of power.

McDaniel "was not the most aggressive or outlandish member of Mr. Trump's team," the Times notes. In fact, "she fell short of Mr. Trump's demands and expectations," prompting "calls from his allies and grass-roots activists to be far more aggressive." But the Times adds that "a review of her record shows she was, at times, closely involved in and supportive of Mr. Trump's legal and political maneuvering ahead of the violent attempt to block Congress from certifying Mr. Biden's victory on Jan. 6."

While that seems like an accurate assessment, NBC's conclusion that McDaniel is beyond the pale raises questions about where exactly a network should draw that line when it tries to present a mix of political viewpoints. Given Trump's domination of the Republican Party, finding former GOP officials who did not acquiesce in his increasingly desperate attempts to remain in office after he lost reelection may prove challenging. And if dissident Never Trumpers are the only acceptable on-air Republicans, news outlets like NBC will be presenting a highly skewed selection that does not reflect prevailing opinions within the party.

McDaniel's public statements about fraud after the election were less extravagant than Trump's but open to various interpretations. On November 6, the day before news organizations called the election for Biden, she said the RNC was looking into "irregularities" in four states, including Michigan. Four days later on Fox News, she cited a Politico poll finding that "70 percent of Republicans don't have faith in the results of this election right now." She suggested they were right to be skeptical:

It's been rigged from the beginningrigged from the laws that were being passed in the name of COVID to create a porous election, rigged in the sense that they kicked Republicans out of poll watching and observing. Why do you do that if you have nothing to hide? And now you have a media that's rigging it again by saying, "We're not going to even listen to these stories. We're not even going to validate the 11,000 incident reports we have, the 500 affidavits we have across these states, people testifying under oath how they were disenfrachised."It is stealing when you validate a vote that shouldn't be in. You are stealing from a voter that voted legally.

Here is how McDaniel summed up her message when she posted that clip on Twitter: "The American people deserve to have faith in our elections. That's why the RNC is going to pursue this process to the very end."

Exactly what that meant was unclear. As Trump saw it, "the very end" did not come after Republican officials (including his own attorney general) debunked his claims of systematic fraud, after states certified their electors, after the Electoral College met on December 14, after courts rejected numerous lawsuits challenging the election results, or even on the day that Congress was meeting to ratify those results. But McDaniel's idea of "the very end" seems to have been more conventional.

After Giuliani and Powell took the lead in pursuing remedies for Trump's groundless grievance, the Times notes, the RNC "shifted away from the legal involvement with the Trump team." It "attached its name only to four" of "the 65 lawsuits that Mr. Trump and his allies filed after the 2020 election."

McDaniel continued lending rhetorical support to such challenges, however. "Every illegal vote is stealing from a valid vote, and every state that conducted their election fraudulently is stealing from states that conducted their elections fairly," she told Fox News host Sean Hannity on December 8.

That formulation was consistent with longstanding Republican concerns about voter fraud, complaints about pandemic-related changes to election procedures, and objections to the alleged mistreatment of GOP poll watchers. It did not necessarily imply that fraud was massive or widespread enough to change the outcome of the election. But in the context of Trump's refusal to admit that he had lost the election, McDaniel's comments left the impression that his complaints were valid.

Behind the scenes, meanwhile, McDaniel was helping Trump press those complaints. During a December 6 teleconference, the House select committee that investigated the Capitol riot noted in its report, Trump and his legal adviser John Eastman "solicited the RNC's assistance" with their plan to present "alternate electors" in battleground states, and "McDaniel agreed to provide that assistance." But according to the federal indictment that charges Trump with illegally interfering in the election, Eastman "falsely represented to her that such electors' votes would be used only if ongoing litigation in one of the states changed the results in [Trump's] favor."

McDaniel also supported a quixotic election lawsuit spearheaded by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton that the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear, much to Trump's dismay. The Times notes that McDaniel "helped Mr. Trump rally state attorneys general" to join that lawsuit and praised it on Fox News. "I'm so happy about this Texas lawsuit," she told Hannity. "There's going to be more states joining that lawsuit."

The House select committee's report also faults McDaniel for sins of omission. Although "RNC leadership knew that President Trump was lying to the American people," it says, "they did nothing to publicly distance themselves from his efforts to overturn the election."

The afternoon of the Capitol riot, McDaniel condemned that particular result of those efforts. "What these violent protesters are doing is the opposite of patriotism," she said on Twitter. "It is shameful and I condemn it in the strongest possible terms."

That was followed, a few weeks later, by McDaniel's public expression of regret for giving Giuliani and Powell a post-election forum at the RNC. McDaniel told the Times she was immediately "concerned" about the seemingly "unfounded" claims that Powell made "without proof" at that wacky press conference. But as the House select committee noted, she kept her concerns to herself.

Nowadays, McDaniel unambiguously rejects those claims. While "it's fair to say there were problems in 2020," she told Kristen Welker on NBC's Meet the Press this week, it is clear that Biden won "fair and square." She added that "it's certified" and "it's done."

Appearing later on the same show, Todd, a former Meet the Press host who is now NBC's chief political analyst, expressed skepticism about McDaniel's sincerity. "I think our bosses owe you an apology for putting you in this situation because I don't know what to believe," he told Welker. "She is now a paid contributor by NBC News. I have no idea whether any answer she gave to you was because she didn't want to mess up her contract."

Sincere or not, McDaniel's avowed view of what happened in 2020 contradicts what most Republicans say they believe. In a Washington Post/University of Maryland poll conducted last December, just 31 percent of Republicans agreed that "Joe Biden's election as president was legitimate," down from 39 percent in a similar poll two years earlier.

That reality presents a problem for TV news executives who say they are trying to present a diversity of political opinions. After canning McDaniel, NBCUniversal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde said the network remains "committed to the principle that we must have diverse viewpoints on our programs." Toward that end, he said, "we will redouble our efforts to seek voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum."

If those "different parts" exclude Republicans who think Trump actually won reelection (which, it's worth noting, would make him ineligible to run this year), NBC already has ruled out most members of the party. And if McDaniel's acknowledgment of reality was too late or too convenient to make the cut, the options are even more limited. When "major Republican Party figures like Ms. McDaniel are deemed unacceptable by viewers or colleagues," the Times wonders, how can an organization like NBC meet "the challenge of fairly representing conservative and pro-Trump viewpoints in their coverage"? It's a good question, and the answer probably will not satisfy anyone.

The post If Ronna McDaniel Is Beyond the Pale, NBC May Have Trouble Presenting 'Diverse Viewpoints' appeared first on Reason.com.
Former President Donald Trump attacked top NBC executives and mocked former Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel on Tuesday after the news network reversed course and said she would no longer appear on-air as a paid contributor.

Wow! Ronna McDaniel got fired by Fake News NBC, Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear.

It leaves her in a very strange place, its called NEVER NEVERLAND, and its not a place you want to be.

NBC first announced last week the company had hired McDaniel to appear on its channels, saying it was important to have a voice like Ronnas on the team. But the move blindsided the networks stable of on-air stars and journalists, who were outraged after McDaniel used her position at the top of the RNC to spread Trumps falsehoods about the 2020 presidential election and express doubt about the legitimacy of the countrys democracy.

Many of those stars used their programs to voice their discontent in recent days, including Chuck Todd, Joe Scarborough and Rachel Maddow. The latter delivered a 29-minute rebuke of NBC executives on Monday, saying the hire was inexplicable and likening the decision to installing a mobster to work at the DAs office.

NBC reversed course less than 24 hours later.

There is no doubt that the last several days have been difficult for the News Group, Cesar Conde, the chairman of NBCUniversal News Group, wrote to staff in an email. After listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor.

Creative Arts Agency, which helped broker the deal with McDaniel, also said it would no longer work with her, Variety reported.

Trump went on to lambast NBC executives as weak, saying they cowed to Radical Left Lunatics.

They were BROKEN and EMBARRASSED by LOW RATINGS, HIGHLY OVERPAID, TALENT, the former president wrote. BRING BACK FREE AND FAIR PRESS - MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN 2024!

Related...
Politico said Ronna McDaniel wants to be paid for her two-year contract after NBC News axed her.

McDaniel appeared on "Meet the Press" this past Sunday and was let go on Tuesday.

Politico reported that McDaniel recently met with the attorney Bryan Freedman to discuss options.

If the former Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel has her way, she could receive a $600,000 payday after NBC News canned her as a paid contributor Tuesday after a wave of pushback.

Politico reported that McDaniel, who appeared on "Meet the Press" this past Sunday for a roughly 20-minute interview, is seeking pay for her two-year contract, equalling $300,000 a year.

It means McDaniel's interview with the moderator Kristen Welker could cost NBC News about $30,000 per minute.

But the challenge may not end there.

On Tuesday, McDaniel met with the attorney Bryan Freedman  who in the past has represented high-profile media figures, including Megyn Kelly, Don Lemon, and Chris Cuomo, after they were terminated from their respective on-air roles  Politico said.

During McDaniel's meeting with Freedman, Politico reported that she spoke about potentially pushing for additional compensation beyond what her contract laid out.

Politico said McDaniel's allies aren't happy that NBC didn't have the ex-RNC chair meet with top anchors and hosts at the network before starting her contributor gig  and they feel the network simply folded to internal pressure.

In recent days, NBC News journalists, including the chief political analyst Chuck Todd and the "Morning Joe" hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, expressed their disapproval of McDaniel's hiring.

Scarborough and Brzezinski even said that McDaniel would not be a guest on their program.

On Sunday, Todd told Welker during the "Meet the Press" taping that top network leaders needed to apologize to her.

"I think our bosses owe you an apology for putting you in this situation," he said of Welker's interview with McDaniel just days after her hiring was announced. Welker affirmed that the interview was scheduled before McDaniel had been brought on by the network.

On Tuesday, Cesar Conde, the chair of NBCUniversal News Group, announced in a memo obtained by Business Insider that McDaniel would no longer be a contributor "after listening to the legitimate concerns" of a range of staffers.

"Our initial decision was made because of our deep commitment to presenting our audiences with a widely diverse set of viewpoints and experiences, particularly during these consequential times," Conde wrote, adding that the network "will redouble our efforts to seek voices that represent different parts of the political spectrum."

Business Insider has reached out to NBC News for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
As Easter approaches, Christians around the world begin to focus on two of the central tenets of their faith: the death and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth.

Other charismatic Jewish teachers or miracle workers were active in Judea around the same time, approximately 2,000 years ago. What set Jesus apart was his followers belief in his resurrection. For believers, this was not only a miracle, but a sign that Jesus was the long-awaited Jewish messiah, sent to save the people of Israel from their oppressors.

But was the idea of a resurrection itself a unique belief in first-century Israel?

I am a scholar of ancient Judaism and its connection to the early Christian movement. The Christian concept of Jesus rising from the dead helped shape many of the faiths key teachings and, ultimately, the new religions split from Judaism. Yet religious teachings about resurrection go back many centuries before Jesus walked the earth.

There are stories that likely predate early Jewish beliefs by many centuries, such as the Egyptian story of the god Osiris being resurrected by his wife, Isis. Most relevant for Christianity, though, are Judaisms own ideas about resurrection.

Your dead shall live

One of the earliest written Jewish references to resurrection in the Bible is found in the Book of Isaiah, which discusses a future era, perhaps a time of final judgment, in which the dead would rise and be subject to Gods ultimate justice. Your dead shall live; their corpses shall rise, Isaiah prophesies. Those who dwell in the dust will awake and shout for joy.

The Great Isaiah Scroll: the best preserved of the biblical scrolls found at Qumran, by the Dead Sea, which was probably written around the second century B.C.E. Ardon Bar Hama/The Israel Museum, Jerusalem/Wikimedia Commons

Later Jewish biblical texts such as the Book of Daniel also referenced resurrection.

There were several competing Jewish sects at the time of Jesus life. The most prominent and influential, the Pharisees, further integrated the concept of resurrection into Jewish thought. According to the first-century historian Josephus, the Pharisees believed that the soul was immortal and could be reunited with a resurrected body  ideas that would likely have made the idea of Jesus rising from the dead more acceptable to the Jews of his time.

Within a few centuries, the rabbis began to fuse together the earlier biblical references to bodily resurrection with the later ideas of the Pharisees. In particular, the rabbis began to discuss the concept of bodily resurrection and its connection to the messianic era.

The Jewish Cemetery on Mount of Olives in Jerusalem. Graves face the Temple Mount, where some believe that the resurrection of the dead will culminate. xiquinhosilva/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

Jews believed that the legitimate Messiah would be a descendant of the biblical King David who would vanquish their enemies and restore Israel to its previous glory. In the centuries following Jesus death, the rabbis taught that the souls of the dead would be resurrected after the Messiah appeared on earth.

By the 500s C.E. or so, the rabbis further elaborated upon the concept. The Talmud, the most important collection of authoritative writings on Jewish law apart from the Bible itself, notes that one who does not believe in resurrection has no share in the Olam Haba, the World to Come. The Olam Haba is the realm where these sages believed ones soul eventually dwells after death. Interestingly, the concept of hell itself never became ingrained within mainstream Jewish thought.

Even now, the concept of God giving life to the dead is affirmed every day in the Amidah, a Jewish prayer recited as part of the daily morning, afternoon and evening services.

Old ideas, new beliefs

The fact that the first followers of Jesus were Jews likely contributed to the concept of resurrection becoming ingrained into Christian thought. Yet the Christian understanding of resurrection was taken to an unprecedented degree in the decades following Jesus death.

According to Matthews Gospel, Jesus, a Jew from Galilee, entered Jerusalem in the days before Passover. He was accused of sedition against the Roman authorities  and likely other charges, such as blasphemy  largely because he was causing a disturbance among the Jews getting ready to celebrate the holiday. At the time, Passover was a pilgrimage festival in which tens of thousands of Jews would travel to Jerusalem.

After being betrayed by one of his followers, Judas, Jesus was arrested, hastily put on trial and sentenced to be crucified. The Roman authorities wished to uphold the pax Romana, or Roman peace. They feared that unrest amid a major festival could lead to a rebellion, especially given the accusation that at least some of Jesus followers believed him to be the King of the Jews, as was recorded later in Matthews and Marks Gospels.

Crucifixes often display the Latin abbreviation INRI, short for Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews. This statue in Germanys Ellwangen Abbey shows the abbreviation in three languages. Andreas Praefcke/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

According to the Gospels, Jesus was put to death on what is now Good Friday, and rose again on the third day  which today is celebrated as Easter Sunday.

Jesus early followers believed not only that he had been resurrected, but that he was the long-awaited Jewish messiah, who had fulfilled earlier Jewish prophecies. Eventually, they also embraced the idea that he was the divine Son of God, although scholars still debate exactly how and when this occurred.

In addition, the nature of Jesus resurrection remains a source of debate among theologians and scholars  such as whether followers believed his resurrected body was made of flesh and blood, or pure spirit.

Yet the grander meaning of the resurrection, which is recorded in all four canonical Gospels, remains clear for many of the approximately 2 billion Christians around the world: They believe that Jesus triumphed over death, which serves as a cornerstone foundation of the Christian faith.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and analysis to help you make sense of our complex world.

It was written by: Aaron Gale, West Virginia University.

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Aaron Gale does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 27, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena in Beijing on Wednesday.

Noting that the friendship between China and Sri Lanka enjoys a long history and the two peoples share a natural affinity, Xi said consolidating and promoting China-Sri Lanka relations serves the fundamental interests and reflects the common expectations of the two peoples.

China is willing to work with Sri Lanka to carry forward the spirit of the Rubber-Rice Pact, which is characterized by "independence, self-reliance, unity and mutual support," to consolidate political mutual trust, enhance exchanges of experience in governance, expand practical cooperation, and advance the high quality Belt and Road cooperation, Xi said.

He noted that China and Sri Lanka should join hands to advance their strategic cooperative partnership featuring sincere mutual assistance and ever-lasting friendship. 

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, who is on an official visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 27, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)
Russian forces attacked border areas and settlements of Sumy Oblast on March 26, firing 36 times and causing at least 181 explosions, the Sumy Oblast Military Administration reported.

The communities of Shalyhyne, Seredyno-Buda, Khotin, Bilopillia, Yunakivka, Velyka Pysarivka, Krasnopillia, Myropillia, Stepanivka, and Putyvl were targeted.

The Russian military struck the communities using artillery fire, aerial bombings, and mortar shelling, while also dropping mines onto four of the communities.

No casualties or injuries were reported.

The town of Velyka Pysarivka experienced the most attacks, with 62 explosions recorded in the area. A total of 33 explosions were also recorded in Myropillia.

Russian attacks on Sumy Oblast have become increasingly destructive in recent weeks. The town of Velyka Pysarivka, located directly on the Russia-Ukraine border, has become a main target of attack for Russia.

Last week, a Russian aerial bomb Velyka Pysarivka killed one and injured one more, while also causing damage to multiple homes, a hospital, and a kindergarten. An attack on March 19 also killed one civilian in the town.

Amid an up-tick in Russian attacks, authorities have been working to increase evacuation efforts in the town Velyka Pysarivka with nearly 300 residents being evacuated in the past week.

According to a spokesperson for Sumy Oblast's 117th Territorial Defense Brigade, approximately 250 resident remain in Velyka Pysarivka. The community had a pre-war population of about 4,000 residents.

The Sumy Oblast has been experiencing daily shelling and attacks from across the Russian border.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: At least 32 Ukrainian POWs executed in Russian captivity during winter, UN says

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Ukrainian prisoners of war are handed mobile phones to call home as they arrive back on Ukrainian territory as part of a POW swap on New Year's Eve 2022. The U.N warned Wednesday that Ukrainian POWs were being executed by their Russian captors in ever higher numbers amid ongoing human rights and abuses and inhuman treatment. File Photo by Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Office /UPI

March 27 (UPI) -- Ukrainian prisoners of war are being executed by their Russian captors in ever higher numbers amid ongoing human rights abuses and inhuman treatment, United Nations monitors said.

A record 32 Ukrainian POWs were executed in 12 separate incidents in the three months through February amid widespread torture and ill-treatment, deaths in custody, incommunicado detention, enforced disappearances, and dire conditions of detention, the U.N. Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine said in a news release on its latest findings published Tuesday.

The U.N. Office of the Human Rights High Commissioner's 28-page "Report on the Human Rights Situation in Ukraine" from December through February is based on the testimony of 60 recently released Ukrainian POWs.

"Almost every single one of the Ukrainian POWs we interviewed described how Russian servicepersons or officials tortured them during their captivity, using repeated beatings, electric shocks, threats of execution, prolonged stress positions and mock execution. Over half of them were subjected to sexual violence," said HRMMU head Danielle Bell.

"Most POWs also recounted the anguish of not being allowed to communicate with their families, and being deprived of adequate food and medical attention."

The monitors recorded credible accounts of the execution of at least 32 Ukrainian POWs during the three months Dec.1 to Feb. 29 -- sharply higher than in any previous monitoring period --three of which they said they had verified independently.

The report also details violence committed against Ukrainian civilians in areas occupied by Russia by the military and civil authorities including killings and arbitrary detention, as well as and crackdowns on free speech.

Russian POWs held by Ukraine were also interviewed for the report. Accounts provided by the 44 POWs found that while torture was not used at recognized internment camps, several detailed how they had been tortured and ill-treated in transit facilities after they had been taken from the theater of combat.

The report also criticizes Kyiv for contravening International Humanitarian Law by continuing to prosecute and convict people for actions they cannot lawfully avoid carrying out under laws imposed by the Russian occupation.

A specific case highlighted in the report pertained to the death in custody of a person initially arrested for "justifying the armed attack by the Russian Federation against Ukraine."

He had complained that penal authorities failed to adequately respond to his worsening health, allegations that were the subject of an investigation by Ukrainian authorities.

It also cited mob attacks against property and parishioners of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, likely due to its historical links to the Russian Orthodox Church.

Two weeks ago, the U.N.'s Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine report concluded Russia committed human rights violations and war crimes as it invaded in 2022, citing the use of explosives and torture against civilians.

It found that the siege of the eastern port of Mariupol early on in the war, which razed much of the city, noting residents' accounts of "unbearable suffering endured during relentless shelling and aerial bombardments which caused large-scale death, injury, and destruction."

The report found new evidence backing up an earlier report that found that torture was being systematically used by Russia in detention facilities in occupied parts of Ukraine and in Russia.

It also condemned recent civilian casualties caused by "indiscriminate attacks violating international humanitarian law committed by Russian armed forces", as well as damage and destruction of hospitals, cultural facilities and other civic amenities.
Russian oil companies have been facing delays in payment for oil and fuel for several months as banks in China, Turkiye and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have become more cautious due to secondary sanctions imposed by the United States.

Source: Reuters with reference to its sources

Details: Reuters noted that payment delays reduce revenues to the Kremlin and make them unstable. This allows Washington to achieve dual sanction objectives, including obstructing the flow of funds to Russia to punish it for the war in Ukraine while simultaneously not disrupting global energy flows.

Several banks in China, the UAE and Turkiye have recently tightened their sanctions compliance requirements, leading to delays or even refusals of money transfers to Russia.

Quote: "Banks, cautious of the U.S. secondary sanctions, started to ask their clients to provide written guarantees that no person or entity from the US SDN (Special Designated Nationals) list is involved in a deal or is a beneficiary of a payment."

In addition, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed there were payment issues when asked about reports that banks in China slowed payments.

Reuters also pointed out that back in December 2023, the US Treasury issued an order warning of potential sanctions for Russia's non-compliance with price restrictions on foreign banks and called on them to strengthen compliance controls.

This was the first direct warning of the possibility of secondary sanctions against Russia, placing it on par with Iran in specific trade sectors.

Following the US order, banks in China, the UAE and Turkiye, which conduct business with Russia, intensified their checks and began demanding additional documentation.

Background:

Banks in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have restricted their dealings with Russia and started closing both personal and business accounts due to the risk of coming under secondary sanctions.

Turkish banks are refusing to work with Russian banks for fear of secondary sanctions.

Turkish banks have tightened their policy towards Russian clients  some financial institutions have started closing business accounts and have increased requirements for individuals seeking to open a bank account. The Kremlin confirmed that reports of Russian citizens having difficulties in the Turkish banking system are true.

China's state-owned banks are tightening restrictions on financing Russian clients after the US threatened secondary sanctions against foreign financial firms that help Russia fund its war against Ukraine.

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An explosion was heard in Mykolaiv on March 27 with Mayor Oleksandr Senkevich confirming that Russia had hit the city with ballistic missiles.

Read also: 11 injured, 3 hospitalized in overnight Russian drone strike on Mykolaiv

The Air Force reported earlier a threat of ballistic missile attacks from the east.

Eight civilians were injured, one of them is in serious condition.

Read also: 11 injured, 3 hospitalized in overnight Russian drone strike on Mykolaiv

There is also minor damage to four residential buildings: mostly broken windows in apartments.

Russia attacked Mykolaiv and a number of other southern regions of Ukraine with Shaheds overnight on March 24-25. The attack damaged a two-story building in the city, injuring at least 11 people, three of whom were hospitalized.

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In Russian regions where oil industry has been targeted by Ukrainian drone strikes, National Guard (Rosgvardia) units are being inspected to determine why they failed to counter the threat, pro-Ukrainian resistance movement Atesh reported on March 27, citing an informant in Russias security forces.

The inspections are connected to Rosgvardias failure to develop effective defensive measures to protect oil refineries and other strategic sites from Ukrainian drone attacks. A variety of security measures are being tested, but so far Moscow lacks a clear understanding of how to effectively counter these types of UAV strikes, the report says.

Read also: U.S. does not support Ukraines attacks on Russian oil refineries, but is there a request to stop?

The message adds that, according to Ateshs data, around 80% of Ukrainian drones reach their intended targets and inflict significant damage on Russia's strategic enterprises.

Read also: Crimea hit by explosions: Oil depot near Simferopol in flames

In just two months, Ukraine used long-range drones to take out as much as 12% of Russias total oil refining capacity, according to a recent report by Bloomberg. The subsequent shortage of petroleum products forced Moscow to ban their exports.

On March 25, the head of Ukraines SBU security service, Lt. Gen. Vasyl Malyuk, said in an interview with ICTV that Ukraine will continue to target Russian oil facilities.

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MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday that it was "extremely hard to believe" that Islamic State would have had the capacity to launch an attack on a Moscow concert hall last Friday that killed at least 143 people.

Zakharova repeated Moscow's assertions, for which it has not yet provided evidence, that Ukraine was behind the attack on the Crocus City Hall, the deadliest Russia has suffered in 20 years.

Russia's Emergencies Ministry published a list of names showing 143 people had died in last Friday's mass shooting. Earlier official tallies had put the death toll at 139.

Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the massacre and U.S. officials say they have intelligence showing it was carried out by the network's Afghan branch, Islamic State Khorasan. Ukraine has repeatedly denied it had anything to do with the attack.

But Zakharova said the West had rushed to pin responsibility on Islamic State, also known as ISIS, as a way of deflecting blame from Ukraine and the Western governments that support Kyiv.

"In order to ward off suspicions from the collective West, they urgently needed to come up with something, so they resorted to ISIS, pulled an ace out of their sleeve, and literally a few hours after the terrorist attack, the Anglo-Saxon media began disseminating precisely these versions," she said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the attack was carried out by Islamist militants but has suggested it was to Ukraine's benefit and that Kyiv may have played a role.

He has said that someone on the Ukrainian side had prepared a "window" for the gunmen to escape across the border before they were captured in western Russia on Friday night.

On Tuesday, however, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko said the gunmen had initially sought to cross into his country before turning away and heading towards Ukraine once they realised that crossings into Belarus had been sealed.

The director of Russia's FSB security agency said on Tuesday that he believed Ukraine, along with the United States and Britain, were involved in the Moscow attack.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron responded on social media platform X, saying: "Russia's claims about the West and Ukraine on the Crocus City Hall attack are utter nonsense."

The head of Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, told a security conference in Kyiv he believed Russian authorities had known about preparations for a major attack since at least mid-February.

Budanov, whose comments were reported in Ukrainian media, said authorities chose to say nothing either because they underestimated the scale of the attack, or to pin the blame on Ukraine and proceed with the dismissal of officials.

After the shooting, a U.S. official said Washington had warned Moscow in recent weeks of the possibility of an attack.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Mark Trevelyan and Felix Light; Editing by Andrew Osborn, Ron Popeski and Jamie Freed)
A boy walks past a vehicle destroyed in an Israeli drone strike in the West Bank city of Jenin, on March 27, 2024. Three Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing and gunfire in the West Bank city of Jenin and its refugee camp, a Palestinian medical source said on Wednesday. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua)

RAMALLAH, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Three Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing and gunfire in the West Bank city of Jenin and its refugee camp, a Palestinian medical source said on Wednesday.

Director of Jenin Governmental Hospital Wissam Bakr told Xinhua that two young men were killed and nine others were injured in an Israeli drone strike in Jenin.

Another one died as a result of being shot in the chest by live bullets in the Al-Marah neighborhood in Jenin, he added.

Local Palestinian sources told Xinhua that large Israeli army forces, accompanied by two bulldozers, stormed Jenin and the town of Qabatiya, south of the city, amid an exchange of fire with Palestinian militants. The main entrances to the Qabatiya were bulldozed during the raid.

Since Oct. 7, 2023, Israeli forces have killed more than 451 Palestinians throughout the West Bank and East Jerusalem, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. 

People are seen near a vehicle destroyed in an Israeli drone strike in the West Bank city of Jenin, on March 27, 2024. Three Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing and gunfire in the West Bank city of Jenin and its refugee camp, a Palestinian medical source said on Wednesday. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua)
One of the wreckage of ZM22 Zircon after hitting Kyiv on March 25, 2024

The Russians have stockpiled Zircon missiles in Crimea and will continue its targeted terror, especially against Kyiv, Southern Defense Forces spokesperson Natalia Humeniuk said, commenting on Russian tactics on national TV on March 26.

Zircon missiles are known to have an increased range, with Kyiv being well within their range from occupied Crimea.

"We must understand that the enemy has several dozens of such missiles stored at a military hub, for example, in Crimea, Humeniuk said.

Occasional targeted terror may take place in the future, with the capital being a top-priority target."

Read also:

The Russian missile attack on Kyiv on March 25  What is Known?

Two missiles, likely ZM22 Zircon rockets, were shot down by Ukraines air defense over Kyiv on March 25, Defense Express reported, citing sources, and sharing a photo of missile debris.

Read also: Victim count of Russian missile strike on Kyiv rises to ten

This is the second known use of this missile after an unsuccessful attempt to attack Kyiv on Feb. 7, Defense Express said.

Explosions were heard in Kyiv on March 25, almost simultaneously with the air alert announcement.

Ukrainian air defense destroyed two ballistic missiles over Kyiv that Russia had launched from Crimea, Ukrainian Air Force Commander, Mykola Oleshchuk, said, without identifying the type.

10 people were injured, including two hospitalized, after rocket debris hit Mykhailo Boychuk Academy of Decorative and Applied Arts in Kyivs Pecherskyi district.

Missile fragments were found in a forest belt in the citys Holosiivskyi district.

Two private houses were damaged in Kyivs Solomyanskyi district.

Debris fell near a private building in Kyivs Darnytskyi district, damaging the windows and setting a non-residential building ablaze.

The Air Force could not yet confirm as of March 26 that Zircon missiles were fired at Kyiv.

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Demonstrators protesting in Kyiv last week in support of Ukrainian prisoners held by Ukraine - Tony Hicks/AP

Russia has tortured more than half of the 10,000 Ukrainian civilians it is keeping captive, Kyivs prosecutor general has said.

Andriy Kostin told Interfax-Ukraine, We estimate tens of thousands, more than 10,000 for sure are being held by Russia.

We are talking only about those who were forcibly relocated, not about those who made this decision at their own discretion, he said.

He went on to say about 5,600 have been tortured but added the true figures may be much higher, stating that 164 Russian torture chambers and forced detention centres have been discovered in liberated Ukrainian territories.

Andriy Kostin said that the figures include only 'those who were forcibly relocated' and not 'those who made this decision at their own discretion' - ALEXANDROS MICHAILIDIS/Alamy Live News

Mr Kostin urged the United Nations to take action on Russias imprisonment of Ukrainian civilians, adding that work is underway to put together a list of all those captured.

A UN General Assembly resolution on the issue could be used to put pressure on the aggressor country to release our civilians and bring them back to Ukraine, he said.

Asked whether it is possible to differentiate between those who have voluntarily moved to Russian-occupied Ukraine and those who were forced to move and are now imprisoned, Mr Kostin described the distinction as inappropriate.

When we talk about occupied territories, the word voluntarily is inappropriate. Some people are forced to leave because of attacks; others are promised material assistance and illusory security. But any action taken under such pressure is not voluntary, he said.

UN figures suggest 12 cases of executions of at least 32 captured Ukrainian POWs during the winter - Global Images Ukraine

His warning comes as more than 30 Ukrainian prisoners of war were executed in Russia this winter, a report by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has found.

The OHCHR said that it had recorded 12 cases of executions of at least 32 captured Ukrainian POWs during the winter, indicating that some of the prisoners were killed in groups.

The report, based on interviews with 60 Ukrainian soldiers released from captivity, verified three of these incidents in which Russian servicemen executed seven Ukrainian servicemen hors de combat, it read.

Reports of Ukrainian POWs being tortured or killed while in Russian captivity have repeatedly emerged since the start of Russias full-scale invasion.

As of late February, the prosecutor generals office said that 19 criminal investigations were underway into the execution of 45 Ukrainian prisoners.

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Russia's attack on the Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant on March 22 caused at least $3.5 million in environmental damage, although that figure is expected to rise, Ukraine's Environment and Natural Resources Minister Ruslan Strilets said on March 27.

"Environmental damage includes not only destruction but also water pollution, explosions, and burning, which have a significant impact on the ecosystem. This figure might change, but only upwards," Strilets said during a national TV broadcast.

Zaporizhzhia's Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant, Ukraine's largest hydroelectric station, was hit during the March 22 attack, causing critical damage to one of its stations.

The strike on the power plant was part of Russia's largest attack on the country's energy infrastructure since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

Ukrhydroenergo's head said that the adjacent dam also suffered damage, but there was no danger of a breach.

Ukraine's Water Agency, as well as the Environmental Inspectorate continue to monitor the quality of the water around the hydroelectric plant, but have insisted that was "no risk" to civilians who consume the water, Strilets said.

"The task of preventing contaminated water from reaching the point of consumption for the population has already been completed," the Minister added.

Since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has suffered at least $60 billion in total environmental damage caused by Russian aggression, Prime Minister Denis Shmyhal said in October 2023, although that number has risen since.

Russian attacks on Ukrainian critical infrastructure have also amounted to at least $11.5 billion in losses for Ukraine, Deputy Minister of Energy Svitlana Hrynchuk said on March 23.

Hrynchuk noted that the attack on the Dnipro Hydroelectric power plant was not included in the estimate provided, adding that the most recent attack could be "assessed in large sums, possibly in the billions of dollars."

Read also: Deputy Minister: Russian attacks on Ukraines energy grid have led to $11.5 billion in losses

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Russian attacks on eastern and southern Ukraine killed at least three people on Wednesday, officials said, as Kyiv called for more Patriot air defence systems to battle a surge in missile strikes.

Moscow has escalated aerial attacks on Ukraine in the past few weeks, targeting key infrastructure -- including power stations -- in retaliation for fatal bombardments of Russia's border regions.

In Ukraine's second largest city Kharkiv, which has been reeling from power outages due to the strikes, aerial bombing and shelling killed at least one person and injured 19 others, including four children, officials said.

And a 12-year-old boy was killed in a strike in the village of Borova in Kharkiv region Wednesday evening, according to prosecutors.

President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Ukraine's allies to speed up deliveries of warplanes and air defence systems following the strike.

"Bolstering Ukraine's air defence and expediting the delivery of F-16s to Ukraine are vital tasks," he said in a statement on social media.

"There are no rational explanations for why Patriots, which are plentiful around the world, are still not covering the skies of Kharkiv and other cities," he added.

The governor of Ukraine's southern Kherson region, which is partially occupied by Russia, said one woman had been killed in a drone attack on the village of Mykhailivka.

"A 61-year-old local resident was fatally wounded in her own home," the official, Oleksandr Prokudin, wrote on social media.

And in the southeastern city of Nikopol, officials said artillery fire killed a 55-year-old man, while a ballistic missile strike on the coastal territory of Mykolaiv left eight wounded.

- 'Little time' -

The Ukrainian air force said Russia had launched 13 Iranian-designed attack drones overnight and that 10 were downed over the Kharkiv region, the neighbouring Sumy region and near the capital Kyiv.

During a briefing on Wednesday, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stressed that Western air defences were crucial to protect Ukrainian cities from Russian shelling.

"The peculiarity of the current Russian attacks is the intensive use of ballistic missiles that can reach targets at extremely high speeds, leaving little time for people to take cover and causing significant destruction," Kuleba said.

"Patriot and other similar systems are defensive by definition. They are designed to protect lives, not take them," he said.

Zelensky meanwhile was in the northeastern Sumy region bordering Russia, where he met with soldiers recovering from injuries and visited newly built defence lines.

"I inspected trenches, dugouts, firing and command and observation posts," Zelensky wrote in a social media post.

"We are strengthening our defences," he said.

Ukraine has been forced onto a defensive footing in the past few months as it struggles with ammunition shortages amid delays to a $60 billion aid package from Washington.

Its ground forces commander warned last week Russia was gathering more than 100,000 soldiers in advance of what may be a major offensive this summer, as Moscow seeks to press its advantage on the battlefield.

Russia meanwhile announced that its air defence systems had shot down 18 rockets near the border city of Belgorod, which has been regularly targeted by fatal Ukrainian attacks.

The governor of Russia's Belgorod region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, said two people were wounded during the barrage and later drone attack.

bur-cad/imm/md/caw
SYDNEY, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Police in the Australian state of Victoria said on Wednesday that a 17-year-old boy has been charged after he stabbed a fellow student at a school in Melbourne's west.

According to a statement released by Victoria Police, just after 3:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday, emergency services called to Wilson Road in Melton South, a suburb located approximately 35 km west of Melbourne's central business district.

A 16-year-old boy was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A 17-year-old boy presented himself to police after fleeing from the scene. He was arrested and charged with affray.

"Police are continuing to search for a second offender that remains outstanding. The investigation remains ongoing," the state police force added.

Earlier, a spokesperson from the Victorian Department of Education told local media that the school was working with police on the investigation. 
Russian forces attacked the town of Ukrainsk in Donetsk Oblast, injuring two people, on the afternoon of 27 March.

Source: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

Quote: "Today the enemy struck the centre of the town of Ukrainsk in the Pokrovsk district. Two people were injured in the attack, and 29 apartment blocks and a retail facility were damaged."

Details: Two garages caught fire following the Russian attack, but the blaze was put out by firefighters.

Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

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A Ukrainian drone hit an administrative building in the Russian city of Belgorod on March 27, Belgorod Oblast Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov claimed.

Ukrainian authorities have not commented on the alleged attack. The Kyiv Independent could not independently confirm the governor's claims.

Belgorod Oblast borders Ukraine's Sumy, Kharkiv, and Luhansk oblasts. Claims of rocket or drone attacks against the region have recently become a common occurrence after anti-Kremlin Russian militias' incursions into the border areas.

The explosion reportedly shattered windows on two floors and damaged the administrative building's facade in Belgorod. One woman was hospitalized with injuries, the governor claimed.

The Russian Defense Ministry claimed three drones had been shot down over the region soon after Gladkov's statement.

Read also: Military Intelligence: Anti-Kremlin militias raid thwarts Russias plans for potential new attack

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Russia's Investigative Committee received 143 reports about people missing following the March 22 terrorist attack in Moscow, the Russian state-owned agency RIA Novosti reported on March 27.

Several gunmen opened fire at the Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, Moscow's suburb, on the evening of March 22, killing at least 139 people. A branch of the Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility for the attack shortly thereafter.

According to Russian health officials, 360 people have been injured, including 92 still in the hospital and 63 who have already been released. Another 205 received outpatient care.

The Investigative Committee also reported that the bodies of 84 victims had been identified, including five children aged nine to 16 years.

The attack was the deadliest such incident in Russia since the Beslan school siege in 2004, which killed 334 people, excluding the 31 assailants.

Read also: Moscow attack suspects families interrogated by Russia in Tajikistan, interviewed by media

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MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian state investigators said on Wednesday they would study a request from parliamentarians to investigate what they called the "organisation, financing, and conduct of terrorist acts" against Russia by the United States and other Western countries.

The director of Russia's FSB security agency said on Tuesday that he believed Ukraine, along with the United States and Britain, were involved in an attack on a concert hall just outside Moscow that killed at least 139 people.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron posted on X: "Russias claims about the West and Ukraine on the Crocus City Hall attack are utter nonsense."

Islamic State took responsibility for the Moscow shooting. Washington and Paris have said they have intelligence confirming the Islamist militant group was behind the attack.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Felix Light; Editing by Andrew Osborn)
The number of injured in the March 22 terrorist attack in a Moscow suburb rose to 360, the Russian state-run media outlet TASS reported on March 27.

Several gunmen opened fire at the Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk, northwest of Moscow, on the evening of March 22, killing at least 139 people. A branch of the Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility for the attack shortly thereafter.

Russian authorities had previously estimated the number of wounded to be around 180. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Tatiana Golikova told TASS that the figure had significantly increased days after the attack because many people did not immediately seek medical assistance.

According to Russian health officials, the figure stood at 360 as of March 27, including 92 still in the hospital and 63 who have already been released. Another 205 received outpatient care.

The attack was the deadliest such incident in Russia since the Beslan school siege in 2004, which killed 334 people, excluding the 31 assailants.

Read also: Moscow attack suspects families interrogated by Russia in Tajikistan, interviewed by media

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Russians are moving equipment from Mariupol toward Berdyansk

Russian military equipment is reportedly being mobilized towards the captured city of Berdyansk in Zaporizhzhya Oblast, Petro Andriushchenko, advisor to the mayor of Mariupol, Donetsk Oblast, reported on Telegram on March 27.



"Various markings, including the 'two triangles' marking of the Russian FSB, are evident," he said.

The destinations for this equipment include the cities of Prymorsk and Tokmak, Zaporizhzhya Oblast, the preliminary data suggests.

The Russians have been reinforcing this sector in recent weeks with both combat forces and engineering-logistics units, Andriushchenko said.

Significant movements of Russian forces' equipment have been observed near Mariupol during the evening hours, he said earlier.



Read also:

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Ukrainian fighters on the bridgehead on the left bank of Kherson Oblast

The UK intelligence has analyzed Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigus statement regarding the creation of the Dnipro River Flotilla and a boat brigade responsible for securing the Dnipro waterways and islands that separate the shores of Kherson Oblast, the UK Defense Ministry said on X on March 27.

Read also: Russian DM Shoigu lies to Putin that Russia has re-established control of left bank of Dnipro River

The Dnipro Flotilla may be subordinated to the Dnipro Group of Forces, which combined the Zaporizhzhya and Dnipro Groups of Forces in February 2024, intelligence analysts said.

Russia likely aims to prevent and deny Ukrainian cross-river operations, such as the operation to establish and maintain a bridgehead in Krynky, Kherson Oblast, the report said.

This formation will likely separate river patrolling functions from the Russian Black Sea Fleet, while the Black Sea Fleet operates in the eastern part of the Black Sea.

The Dnipro Flotilla is expected to be vulnerable to Ukrainian surface drones, which have been effectively destroying Russian vessels operating in the Black Sea.

The Dnipro River Flotilla: what is known

Shoigu announced on March 20 that Russia formed the Dnipro River Flotilla, an army corps, a motorized rifle division, and a boat brigade for the flotilla. The strength and level of equipment of these units are currently unknown.

Shoigu also outlined plans to form two new armies, including 14 divisions and 16 brigades.



The U.S.-based think tank Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said that the Russian military command may intend to use the Dnipro River Flotilla to support raids across the river and attempts to land on the Ukrainian-controlled western (right) bank of Kherson Oblast.

Read also: Oil products leak into Dnipro River after Russian attack on HPP dam

ISW considers it unlikely that the Dnipro River Flotilla has sufficient soldiers and equipment for the Russians to establish themselves on the right bank of Kherson Oblast or to threaten the Oblast with reoccupation.

The presence of a new Russian formation in this area may force Ukraine to redirect some troops and scarce equipment to a front that has been relatively inactive since November 2022, ISW said. The deployment of the Dnipro River Flotilla could force the Ukrainian command to make difficult decisions about resource allocation as the Ukrainian Armed Forces are limited in supplies of artillery ammunition and other vital military equipment.

Krynky foothold

Read also: We look after fundraised money: One Ukrainian drone saves another with critical intel in odd video

An advance to the village of Krynky was reported by analysts on Oct. 20 with the following probable bridgehead expansion resulting in cutting off an important way from Nova Kakhovka to Oleshky on Nov. 10.

Shoigu reported in February to Russian dictator Vladimir Putin on the "clearing" of the village of Krynky on the left bank of the Dnipro River.

Ukraines Southern Defense Forces denied such statements by Russias top military leadership. Ukrainian servicemen continue to hold their positions close to the village and inflict significant losses on the Russian invaders, they assured.

Russia continues human wave assaults in Krynky, without the protection of armored vehicles, Ukraines Operational Command South spokesperson, Natalia Humeniuk, said on Feb. 28.



Russian troops managed to carry out only one assault over the past day since they "did not gather more enthusiasts who are ready to go and not return," she said.



There is not a single non-damaged building left in Krynky, Kherson Oblast, and there is constant fighting there, Humeniuk said on Jan. 15.

The Russians have concentrated their troops near Krynky and are trying to knock Ukraines forces from there, she said.

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Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) detained a former guard of a Russian prison in Kherson, who was attempting to flee Ukraine, SBU reported on Telegram on March 27.

After Kherson's liberation in 2022, the suspect burned his "prison guard ID" and moved to a rented apartment, where he planned to hide until January 2025. Upon turning 60, he hoped to leave the country as a displaced person from southern Ukraine.



During a search of the suspect's residence, authorities found a mobile phone with evidence of his criminal activities and a Russian-style uniform issued by the occupiers.

Investigations revealed that at the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion, the man worked as an electromechanical engineer at a local firm. Following the capture of Kherson, he voluntarily joined the "administration" of a Russian prison, where he was made a "junior inspector in the supervision and security department."

The suspect guarded cells where members of the resistance movement in Kherson were held. Russian occupying forces tortured Ukrainian patriots there, attempting to coerce them into cooperation.

Read also:

The SBU has charged the detainee with engaging in collaborative activities and voluntarily holding a position within the illegal law enforcement bodies established in the temporarily occupied territory, violating part 7 of article 111-1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

The suspect is now in custody, facing up to 15 years in prison with property confiscation.

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Russian forces have been attacking on seven frontline areas, most actively on Novopavlivka, with a total of 67 combat clashes recorded at the front line in the past 24 hours.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 06:00 on 27 March

Details: There were no significant changes on the Volyn and Polissia fronts.

On the Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna fronts, the Russians are maintaining a military presence in the border areas, conducting active sabotage activities to prevent the deployment of Ukrainian troops to vulnerable areas and increasing the density of minefields along the state border in Russias Belgorod Oblast.

On the Kupiansk front, Russian forces attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders near the village of Ivanivka (Kharkiv Oblast) once.

On the Lyman front, Ukrainian defenders repelled 13 Russian attacks near the settlements of Bilohorivka (Luhansk Oblast) and Terny, Yampolivka and to the north from Vesele (Donetsk Oblast), where Russian forces, supported by aircraft, attempted to break through Ukrainian defences.

On the Bakhmut front, Ukrainian soldiers repelled seven Russian attacks near the settlements of Ivanivske, Bohdanivka and Klishchiivka (Donetsk Oblast).

On the Avdiivka front, Ukrainian defenders repelled nine Russian attacks near the settlements of Berdychi, Semenivka, Nevelske and Pervomaiske (Donetsk Oblast).

On the Novopavlivka front, Ukraines Defence Forces are continuing to hold back the Russians near the settlements of Novomykhailivka, Heorhiivka and Urozhaine (Donetsk Oblast), where the Russians, supported by aircraft, attempted to break through the Ukrainian defences 26 times.

On the Orikhiv front, Russian forces, supported by aircraft, attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders near the settlement of Staromaiorske (Donetsk Oblast) as well as near Robotyne and to the north-west of Verbove (Zaporizhzhia Oblast) seven times.

On the Kherson front, the Russians are persisting in their intention to drive Ukrainian troops from their footholds on the Dnipro River's left (east) bank. Russian troops unsuccessfully attacked Ukrainian positions near the village of Krynky (Kherson Oblast) three times over the past 24 hours.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian soldiers are continuing to actively inflict losses in manpower and equipment on the Russian forces, draining them along the entire contact line.

Ukraine's Air Force hit two command posts and eight areas where Russian military personnel, weapons and equipment were concentrated.

Ukraine's Rocket Forces and Artillery struck one Russian air defence system, one artillery system and one ammunition storage point.

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Ukraine's National Resistance Center (NRC) has reported that Russian occupying forces are trying to discredit the Ukrainian resistance in the temporarily occupied territories (TOTs).

Source: NRC

Details: As part of this operation, the Russians are spreading fake correspondence of teenagers who have supposedly been recruited by resistance to stage terrorist attacks in schools in Russian-occupied Crimea.

NRC believes that by taking such actions, the Russians plan to shift blame for the shooting incident in Crocus City Hall concert venue near Moscow onto Ukrainians.

Quote: "We can state that the Kremlin regime uses death only to spread hatred and more deaths. Note that the resistance does not cooperate with persons under the age of 18.

At the same time, knowing Moscows hateful policy, we urge Ukrainians in the TOTs to be careful and avoid crowded places in order not to fall victim to another Kremlin provocation."

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An aerial drone photo taken on March 22, 2024 shows a view of Yong'an Village in Yuhang District, Hangzhou City, east China's Zhejiang Province.(Photo by Hong Yunfeng/Xinhua)

HANGZHOU, March 27 (Xinhua) -- On a warm spring day, Liu Song strolled past the lush green wheat fields and through the blooming rapeseed flower fields that span 100 mu (about 7 hectares) before arriving at his office.

There, he had a meeting scheduled with his team to discuss investment promotion matters. He is a village CEO, also known as an agricultural manager.

Like a CEO overseeing a company, a village CEO manages various aspects of a village's agricultural and economic activities. This includes supervising agricultural cooperatives, providing technical assistance, and overseeing marketing efforts aimed at promoting agricultural products.

Since September 2020, Liu has been employed by Yong'an Village in Yuhang District, Hangzhou City, east China's Zhejiang Province. His position became available after it was included among the 13 new professions introduced jointly by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, the State Administration for Market Regulation, and the National Bureau of Statistics in 2019.

Yong'an Village spans a total area of 7.09 square kilometers, with 97 percent of the land designated as permanent basic farmland. Upon his arrival, Liu was told that "the village lacked funds, skilled professionals, and suitable space for business investments."

However, Liu decided to tackle these challenges head on. Having grown up in a rural area, he graduated with a bachelor's degree in agriculture from Zhejiang University. With experience in three listed companies and a background in entrepreneurship, Liu was determined to create opportunities out of adversity.

Being located near Hangzhou, the provincial capital, Yong'an has seen a shift away from traditional farming as the primary source of income for local villagers. Many younger residents sought job opportunities elsewhere, while older generations remained, relying on rice cultivation for their livelihoods. Nevertheless, the village's most valuable asset remains its vast farmland.

Liu saw this as his first challenge and promptly devised a solution. He focused on integrating the agricultural, industrial, and service sectors to enhance the local economy, maximize growth, and boost overall competitiveness.

After more than three years of efforts, the comprehensive income per mu of land in Yong'an has increased from around 2,755 yuan (388.3 U.S. dollars) to about 8,000 yuan. In 2022, the operating income of the village surpassed 5 million yuan.

Liu is among numerous village CEOs in Zhejiang, Guangdong, and Yunnan who have spearheaded efforts to attract professionals to contribute to developing rural areas across China.

Fueled by a love for rural life, urbanites are increasingly drawn to such positions, which also offer competitive salaries. Liu now leads a team of over 30 members. He has also encouraged his team members to cooperate with eight neighboring villages.

Shen Yan, who works in Xiadoumen Village, is one of them. She is a native of Yong'an Village with experience studying abroad. "Returning to my hometown is a natural choice, and there are many things I can do here," she said.

"When I was young, the roads in the village were very bumpy. I can't even count how many times I fell off my bike and landed in a ditch. Now the village roads are smooth, the trees by the houses have grown tall, and the river water has become clearer.

In September 2023, Liu joined a provincial vocational training program for village CEOs and worked as a mentor. He said, "Every village has unique resources, and we are willing to share our experience and exchange ideas with peers."

Operational capabilities and management experience honed in the market, combined with an open mind, enthusiasm, and commitment, are important prerequisites for becoming a Village CEO, Liu said.

In the long run, it is crucial to nurture local individuals with knowledge and skills to propel rural development, he added. 
Russian invasion forces captured the village of Tonenke and retain tactical initiative along the entire front, Censor.NET editor Yuriy Butusov said in an interview with Radio NV on March 26.

Unfortunately, yes, the enemy managed to capture the village of Tonenke, it did happen, Butusov said.

And the enemy is trying to advance further. Therefore, of course, the situation at the front remains acute. Russians do not stop infantry attacks. They do not stop meat assaults.

The Russian tactics consist of constant pressure on Ukrainian positions, constant exhaustion of the Ukrainian military and additional reconnaissance of the positions of Ukrainian defenders for air and artillery strikes.

Therefore, the situation at the front remains very difficult, and the enemy continues to have a tactical initiative along almost the entire front line, said the journalist.

     DeepState  deepstatemap.live

What is known about the capture of Tonenke

Bild military analyst Julian Ropcke reported on March 25 that Russians had completely captured the villages of Tonenke and Orlivka, 5 km from Avdiivka.

Ropcke also wrote that the town of Chasiv Yar would be the next target of the Russians.

The capture of Tonenke and most of Orlivka by the Russians is also confirmed by DeepState data.

The General Staffs report as of 6 a.m. on March 27 does not mention Tonenke or Orlivka.

The last time Tonenke was mentioned was in the General Staffs report as of 6 a.m. on March 24.

Avdiivka axis: Ukrainian defenders repelled 13 enemy attacks in the vicinity of Berdychi, Tonenke, Pervomayske, Yasnobrodivka, Nevelske (Donetsk Oblast), the statement read.

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Russian occupation forces bombarded Kharkiv on the afternoon of 27 March; local authorities reported casualties and a fatality.

Source: Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov on Telegram; Ukraines Air Force on social media; Oleh Syniehubov, Head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram; Serhii Bolvinov, Head of the Investigation Department of the National Police in Kharkiv Oblast; President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on social media

Quote: "A strike on a residential neighbourhood of Kharkiv hit high-rise buildings. People were killed and wounded. This is another act of bloody terror against Ukrainians."

Updated: The president states that as of 18:00, at least 19 people have been injured.

Syniehubov reported that two five-storey apartment blocks, a medical institution, an administrative building and a public place had been partially destroyed. Another strike damaged an educational facility. In total, at least 14 apartment blocks have been damaged.

There are four children among the people who were injured, aged from three months to nine years.

The people have received minor to moderate injuries. They are getting the necessary treatment.

One person, a civilian man, has been killed. The details are being specified.

Local police reports that Kharkiv was struck with aerial bombs for the first time since 2022.

Quote from Bolvinov: "According to the information we are checking, the enemy used a cheap analogue of a cruise missile to attack the Shevchenkivskyi district of Kharkiv. It is a D-30 SN UMPB manufactured on the basis of FAB-250 [unguided bomb]. We have two strikes: the first one was on a school, and the second hit residential buildings.

All services are working at the scene and a rescue operation has begun.

The Russians have not used aircraft to strike residential areas in Kharkiv for two years. These two strikes were the first over this time.

I know that everyone is used to air-raid warnings. Few people respond to it and go to shelters. But I will not get tired of warning you, and the enemy will use this too. They are now using heavier weapons to bombard the city. So I urge you to save your lives and the lives of your children and loved ones. Be aware of the possibility of repeated attacks."

Quote by Syniehubov: "The attack on residential buildings was likely launched with an UMPB D-30 projectile. It is quite powerful, and its explosive capacity is a cross between an aerial bomb and a missile. A 30-cm calibre projectile can fly a distance of up to 90 km. They can be dropped from an aircraft and launched from a Smerch multiple-launch rocket system. The final information will be revealed after the examination."

Ukraines Air Force reported earlier that Russian tactical aircraft had launched glide bombs at Kharkiv and Donetsk oblasts.

Syniehubov said that the Russians were launching attacks. He urged the residents of Kharkiv and Kharkiv Oblast to stay in shelters.

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Russia's top general announced the formation of a new Dnipro River patrol force last week.

Western intelligence says these troops will likely be vulnerable to Ukraine's fleet of drone boats.

Kyiv has used these exploding naval drones to wreak havoc on Russia's Black Sea Fleet.

Russia's new river patrol force could be vulnerable to the same exploding naval drones that Ukraine has used to wreak havoc on Moscow's Black Sea Fleet, according to Western intelligence.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu last week announced the formation of the Dnipro River "Flotilla" and a "riverboat brigade" as part of a larger effort to bolster Moscow's forces by the end of the year.

Britain's defense ministry said the new formation "will likely be responsible for securing" the Dnipro's strategic waterways and islands that separate Ukrainian-controlled and Russian-occupied territory in the southern Kherson region.

The Dnipro was long a natural barrier preventing Ukrainian forces in Kherson from advancing south across the river and into the Russian-occupied territory, but this area has experienced combat flare-ups in recent months.

Elite Ukrainian naval forces raiding a Russian-occupied island in the Dnipro river. The Command of the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine/Facebook

"Russia likely wants to prevent and deny Ukrainian cross-river operations, such as the operation to establish and maintain the Krynky bridgehead," Britain's defense ministry wrote in a Wednesday intelligence update.

Krynky is a small village on the eastern bank of the Dnipro, near the city of Kherson, where Ukrainian forces established a bridgehead, or strong foothold, in the fall. Kyiv has since sought to expand its presence there, leading to intense fighting  and heavy troop and equipment losses on both sides. Over the past few weeks in particular, Ukraine has managed to repel heavy assaults by the Russians around Krynky.

It's not immediately clear if Moscow's new river patrol formation is a direct result of these recent developments, but either way, these forces will probably not be sailing into uncontested waters.

"The Dnipro Flotilla will likely be vulnerable to Ukrainian uncrewed surface vehicles which have been effective in destroying Russian vessels operating in the Black Sea," Britain's defense ministry said.

Ukrainian infantrymen soldiers travel on the Dnipro River in the Kherson region in September. Photo by Libkos/Getty Images

Ukraine turned to uncrewed surface vehicles, or USVs, after Russia launched its full-scale invasion to make up for the fact that it didn't have a proper navy of its own. These systems are essentially just small drone boats packed with explosives and have proven to be an innovative solution for Kyiv in the maritime battle space.

Ukraine has relied on USVs, along with cruise missiles developed domestically and provided by the country's Western partners, to wreak havoc on Russia's Black Sea Fleet  damaging or destroying roughly a third of its warships since the war started  and unblock a key maritime corridor in the region, which is crucial to supporting Kyiv's economy.

This asymmetric style of warfare has compelled Russia to undertake some additional defensive measures, like adding machine gun crews on its ships and increasing aerial patrols, but Moscow has ultimately proven that it's incapable of consistently defending against the threat.

In some cases, the Kremlin has relocated some elements of the Black Sea Fleet to Russian ports and away from its vulnerable headquarters in Sevastopol, a city in the occupied Crimean peninsula.

Ukraine's newly released Sea Baby drone "Avdiivka" during a presentation in the Kyiv region on March 5, 2024. AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka

Because the fleet is now mainly operating in the eastern Black Sea and farther away from the Kherson region, Russia's new Dnipro formation will likely assume its river patrolling responsibilities, British intelligence said on Wednesday.

While it's unclear what sort of manpower or capabilities the river patrol force will have, analysts at the Institute for the Study of War think tank suggested that Russia could end up using it to support its own cross-river raids into the western bank of the Dnipro river, which is controlled by Ukraine.

And although the flotilla may not have the capabilities needed to support a large footprint in the western bank or the reoccupation of Ukrainian territory, it could be enough to pin down critical resources that Kyiv needs elsewhere, the analysts wrote in a March 20 assessment.

The deployment of the flotilla, they said, "may force the Ukrainian command to make challenging decisions about resource attribution as it husbands limited stores of artillery ammunition and other critical military equipment."

Read the original article on Business Insider
The city of Sacramento, California, unanimously passed a resolution Tuesday to serve as a sanctuary city for transgender people.

The resolution, introduced by Katie Valenzuela, a member of the Sacramento City Council, means that Sacramento would protect the trans communitys rights, safeguarding them from anti-trans legislation such as the growing push across the country to ban gender-affirming care. It follows Gov. Gavin Newsoms (D-Calif.) signing of a law in 2022 that established California as a sanctuary state for trans youth.

California has been a leader in protecting the rights of transgender

individuals to access care, but many states across the nation are moving in the opposite direction, the resolution states.

In preparation of future legislation that may criminalize those providing or seeking gender-affirming care and given the Councils stated values of equity and inclusion, it is important for the City of Sacramento to be proactive in reiterating our commitment to transgender rights and equal protections for transgender people by declaring ourselves a sanctuary city and a place of safety for transgender people.

California is one of 11 states that have varying laws protecting access to trans healthcare, according to the Movement Advancement Project, a nonprofit think tank focused on equality.

Meanwhile, the Trans Legislation Tracker is currently following 533 anti-trans bills and predicts that the number is likely to increase as the year goes on. According to the tracker, 228 of the bills carried over from last year.

By affirming our commitment to supporting our LGBTQ+ community and ensuring that no city resources or staff time will be used to help enforce these harmful laws in other jurisdictions, the City has taken a step beyond state law and sent a powerful signal to everyone in our community that we are a safe place for everyone, Valenzuela said on X, formerly Twitter, Tuesday night.

Tonights testimony in support of this resolution was a powerful reminder of the resiliency and passion in our community to protect our transgender neighbors.

Tonight, as we recognize Transgender Week of Visibility in the City of Sacramento, I was honored to introduce a resolution to declare Sacramento a Sanctuary City for Transgender People in partnership with DSA Sacramento. This resolution was supported by a myriad of organizations pic.twitter.com/1yqkayjhGy  Councilmember Katie Valenzuela (@CMKValenzuela) March 27, 2024

Critics of the resolution have argued that gender-affirming care is detrimental to youth.

This sanctuary city is saying that we will promote the idea that people can be born in the wrong body, Beth Bourne, a member of a Sacramento chapter of the conservative political organization Moms for Liberty, told Sacramento NBC affiliate KCRA-TV.

The LGBTQ community is facing political attacks across the country.

As of March 15, the American Civil Liberties Union has accounted for 479 anti-LGBTQ bills introduced in 2024, five of which have already passed into law. So far, 135 of the bills have been defeated, while 211 have advanced, according to the ACLU.

Related...
The Sacramento City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to approve a resolution declaring the California capital a sanctuary for transgender people.

The resolution, which went into effect immediately, guarantees that none of the citys resources  including staff time  are used to enforce laws passed in other states that restrict access to gender-affirming health care for transgender minors or adults.

Twenty-four states since 2021 have passed laws limiting access to treatments  including puberty blockers, hormones and surgery  for transgender youth, according to the Movement Advancement Project, a nonprofit organization that tracks LGBTQ laws. Laws passed in states like Florida and Missouri also restrict access to care for certain trans adults, and GOP state legislators have increasingly targeted transgender people 18 and older in legislation filed this year.

Gender-affirming health care for transgender minors is already protected in California under a 2022 state law that shields families from being criminally prosecuted if they travel to California seeking care for their transgender children. The law does not apply to transgender adults.

Sacramento City Council members on Tuesday said the sanctuary city resolution is needed to ensure transgender people will remain protected in the event that the states existing safeguards are repealed.

California has been a leader in protecting the rights of transgender individuals to access care, but many states across the nation are moving in the opposite direction, the resolution states. In preparation of future legislation that may criminalize those providing or seeking gender-affirming care and given the Councils stated values of equity and inclusion, it is important for the City of Sacramento to be proactive in reiterating our commitment to transgender rights and equal protections for transgender people by declaring ourselves a sanctuary city and a place of safety for transgender people.

City Council member Katie Valenzuela, who introduced the resolution, celebrated the councils unanimous vote late Tuesday in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

By affirming our commitment to supporting our LGBTQ+ community and ensuring that no city resources or staff time will be used to help enforce these harmful laws in other jurisdictions, the City has taken a step beyond state law and sent a powerful signal to everyone in our community that we are a safe place for everyone, she said.

Similar sanctuary resolutions, which are not legally binding, have been adopted by a growing number of cities, often in direct defiance of proposals made by Republican state lawmakers that threaten access to gender-affirming health care.

Including California, 14 states and Washington, D.C., have passed shield laws protecting access to gender-affirming health care for transgender youth.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  Open enrollment for the San Angelo Independent School District and the Texas Leadership Charter Academy of San Angelos 2024-2025 school year is just around the corner. Heres what theyve said thus far about being ready for it.

SAISD

SAISDs open enrollment period begins on Monday, April 1, for new and returning students. Enrollment remains open throughout the year, but the district asks returning students to have their enrollment completed before the start of the school year.

Enrollment can be completed from any web browser or smartphone. Parents can use these platforms to upload required documents, which include a childs birth certificate, proof of address, social security card, and immunization records, in .pdf, .jpg or other standard file formats, according to the SAISD enrollment webpage.

SAISD has repeatedly stressed the importance of parents and legal guardians having access to their eSchool Plus Home Access Center accounts in the weeks leading up to open enrollment. The HAC is a web-based tool that allows guardians to monitor their childs grades and attendance throughout the school year and renew enrollment information during the online enrollment window, according to SAISD.

Parents and guardians of returning students are advised to ensure that they still have the username and password to their HAC account on hand before open enrollment begins so that their students information can be updated during the time period. If you have lost or forgotten your HAC accounts username and/or password, SAISD encourages you to visit this link and follow the prompts that appear.

TLCA

TLCA San Angelos open enrollment period will begin on Monday, April 1, at 12 a.m. and conclude on Friday, April 12. The academys enrollment process is held entirely online through the schools website, meaning that those wishing to enroll a student need to have access to the internet.

TLCAs enrollment FAQ webpage sheds some light on how the enrollment process works. According to the FAQ, TLCA utilizes a fair, transparent software system that complies with data privacy regulations that takes the balance of student names and fills the open positions with completed new student applications.

Any remaining students are then placed on a waiting list, with the childs parent or guardian being notified once a spot in the appropriate grade level becomes available. Children who are siblings of students currently enrolled at TLCA are moved to the top of the waiting list for placement.

TLCA warns that, since the school grows every year, the number of spots available fluctuates from enrollment period to enrollment period. This number is dependent  on the number of students who have confirmed their intent to return for the following school year, according to TLCA.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
SALINA, Kan. (KSNW)  Friends and family members are holding a vigil for two teenagers killed in a crash west of Salina. The Saline County Sheriffs Office will close a road during the vigil Thursday evening.

Vance McComber and Anthony Windell, both 17 years old, died in a crash on Crawford Road on March 15.

Since then, a memorial has been created along the stretch of road where the crash happened.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

We recognize the importance of grieving at the site of the tragedy, Salina County said in a news release. Therefore, the Sheriffs Office will temporarily close West Crawford between Fairchilds and Burma Roads from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 28, to allow individuals to pay their respects during an organized vigil.

After the vigil, the county suggests mourners can continue their memorials at home, at places of worship, or other places associated with the victims.

Wichita man killed in Oklahoma road construction crash

The county says its road and bridge department does not disturb well-maintained memorials situated at the rear of the right-of-way.

However, it says Crawford Road does not have shoulders or places where people can park, and there is a risk to drivers and pedestrians.

Saline County is committed to honoring the memories of those we have lost while prioritizing the safety and well-being of all, the county said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV.
Salute to fallen NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller: He epitomized what the NYPD is all about

MASSAPEQUA PARK, N.Y. (PIX11)  It was a solemn salute to one of NYPDs finest  shot and killed in the line of duty  Tuesday evening as a police procession escorted NYPD Officer Jonathan Dillers body from New York City to a Massapequa Park funeral home.

Dillers heartbroken family was there to receive his remains back home on Long Island.

Imagine the pain of going through something as unnatural as burying a parent, Mayor Eric Adams said.

Dillers son, Ryan, is just 1 year old. His wife Stephanies brother, Jonathan McAuley, is also an NYPD member with the Harbor Unit.

You were a good man and a great father  I swear to you that I will look after your son as if he were my own. For the rest of my life, McAuley wrote on Facebook.

Funeral set for fallen NYPD cop Jonathan Diller: Our hero police officer

Chris Johnson is on the Special Ops team with McAuley. Johnson told PIX11 News he was in the air Monday night with the Aviation Unit, helping escort the cop caravan to Jamaica Hospital.

Diller, 31, was shot during a traffic stop in Queens Monday evening. Police said Guy Rivera is the suspect, who they described as a career criminal.

All of a sudden, Jon said, Oh my God, its my brother-in-law. Hes the one who got shot!' Johnson recalled.

The fellow NYPD cop felt he had to help this shattered family. One hes celebrated good times with  at a bachelor party, a wedding, and work events.

More Crime News

Johnson launched a GoFundMe that quickly raised well over six figures for the Dillers.

In the grand scheme of things, its not a father, its not a husband, its not a 20-year career with a pension. All those things are gone, Johnson said.

At Dillers neighborhood in Massapequa Park  a town where the thin blue line runs deep  people put up blue ribbons.

Were going to do whatever we can to help the family at this time, Mayor Daniel Pearl said.

NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban, meanwhile, made his way to Dillers home precinct in Rosedale, Queens on Tuesday.

He epitomized what the NYPD is all about hard work, sacrifices, and our hearts go out to his family, Caban told PIX11 News.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Samsung Pay, a payment system for mobile devices, will stop working with Mir cards, a Russian payment system.

Source: Samsung

Quote: "From 3 April 2024, Samsung Pay will suspend its support for Mir cards," the statement reads.

All Mir cards added to Samsung Pay will be automatically unlinked on 3 April.

Background:

Debit and credit cards using the Russian payment network Mir will stop working at ATMs and POS terminals of most Armenian banks from 30 March 2024.

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The Samsung Pay system will stop working with Russian Mir cards as of the beginning of April, according to a message posted on Samsung's website on March 27.

The Mir payment system was instituted following Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014 after international sanctions began to limit the usage of international cards.

Their usage exponentially increased after the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the subsequent withdrawal of the major card issuers Visa and Mastercard from Russia.

The Russian state-controlled media outlet RBC reported earlier in March that most Armenian banks would stop accepting cards using the Mir payment system at the end of the month.

Samsung wrote that the majority of Mir card's functionality on Samsung Pay will end on April 3, such as the ability to pay for transport or add new cards directly from a bank app.

Existing Mir cards on the app will be automatically removed.

Apple Pay and Google Pay ended the ability to use Mir cards on their platforms after the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

Samsung's decision was likely connected to the announcement of new U.S. sanctions against the Russian National Payment Card system (NSPK) in February 2024, which coincided with the second anniversary of the full-scale war and the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny at a penal colony in Russia.

The U.S. has sought to increase the reach of its measures against Russia, including moves to target banks around the world that do any business with the American financial system.

As the new measures announced in December 2023 levy potential consequences against institutions that even inadvertently work with sanctioned entities, some Chinese banks have ended their operations in Russia.

U.S. Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo said in February 2024 that the measures had reduced the flow of Russian funds to third-party countries.

Read also: Bloomberg: Russian oil trade feels pressure of Western sanctions in India

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- The fourth China International Consumer Products Expo, scheduled from April 13 to 18 in Haikou, the capital of south China's Hainan Province, will boast a sprawling floor area of 128,000 square meters, surpassing its previous editions.

The expo will feature more than 3,000 brands from 59 countries and regions, facilitated by Hainan's visa-free entry policy for these nations and regions, Vice Minister of Commerce Sheng Qiuping told a press conference on Wednesday.

China's retail sales of consumer goods, a major indicator of consumption strength, climbed 5.5 percent year on year in the first two months of 2024 to 8.13 trillion yuan (about 1.15 trillion U.S. dollars), revealing the resilience and vitality of the country's consumer market, according to Sheng. 
What kind of bird is that? Samsung's S24 Ultra (like Google's Pixel 8) lets you point your camera, circle something and find out more about it in a Google search. Christin Klose/dpa

After hailing a new "AI era" of smartphones with the release of its Galaxy S24 phones earlier this year, Samsung is now bringing new features based on artificial intelligence to older smartphones

An update to One UI 6.1, arriving on March 28, is set to bring several new AI-powered capabilities to last year's S23 series models, as well as the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Fold 5 models and the tablets in the Tab S9 series.

Galaxy AI is the generic term for a number of AI-supported functions on the devices. These include a call assistant that can translate calls into other languages almost in real time and display spoken words as text.

Another service is generative image processing, which can add missing elements or make objects in photos disappear.

The update also introduces Circle to Search on the Samsung models mentioned above - a function previously only known from Google's Pixel smartphones.

Any section of the screen in apps or on the web can be circled with a swipe of the finger. The content in the circle is then immediately searched for online.

That means you can circle the shoes of a celebrity in a photo and found out which online shop is selling them. It also helps work out the name of a bird in a photo you took.

Samsung has also promised to equip other older models with cloud-supported AI functions. Galaxy AI processes data partly on the device and partly in the cloud - for example, live translation. The functions are still available free of charge, but some of them could cost money from 2026 onwards.

Recording speech and converting it to text? AI-based features like these are now being added to older Samsung Galaxy phones. Christin Klose/dpa

Can you guess which of these two photos were manipulated by AI? Samsung's AI photo editing in the S24 Ultra can be impressive at first sight, but the details often look weird. Andrej Sokolow/dpa
Journalists from The Wall Street Journal described negotiations between Russia and the United States for the exchange of prisoners, noting that a week before Alexei Navalny's death, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and US President Joe Biden discussed a possible exchange.

Source: The Wall Street Journal

Details: According to the WSJs sources, after Biden arrived at the White House, Russia demanded that a spy be exchanged for another spy. The US did not have any Russians convicted of espionage, but Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin, according to the WSJ, became interested in former FSB officer Vadim Krasikov, who was convicted of murder in Germany.

Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal correspondent, was arrested in Russia in the spring of 2023 on charges of espionage. Biden publicly promised to seek his release, but progress in the negotiations was slow, according to the newspaper, until the "unexpected source" - former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton - joined the process.

Investigator Christo Grozev asked her to lobby the White House to include Alexei Navalny in the exchange agreement, which they offered in exchange for Krasikov.

At the same time, Yulia Navalnaya addressed German officials in an unofficial capacity. According to the WSJ, opinions in the German government were divided, with Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock opposing any deal involving Krasikov.

However, as noted by the WSJ, Navalny was a popular figure in Germany, beginning with his treatment in the Charite clinic after poisoning.

Meanwhile, according to the WSJ, Putin has persistently hinted that he is open to proposals for the exchange of American journalist Gershkovich.

The WSJ reports that German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met with Joe Biden in Washington on 9 February. The private topic of the meeting was a discussion of "one of the most complex prisoner trades with the Kremlin since the Cold War". Following the meeting, the governments of the two countries agreed to continue discussing the possibility of exchanging Krasikov for Navalny, but the White House made no formal offer to the Kremlin at the time.

Background:

Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny, who died on 16 February in a penal colony, was buried on 1 March in Moscow.

Maria Pevchikh, head of the Anti-Corruption Foundation formerly headed by Alexei Navalny, said on 26 February that an agreement had been reached to swap the opposition politician in a prisoner exchange, but he died in prison while the negotiations were in the final stages.

Navalny was aware of the prisoner swap plan and had agreed to it, Reuters reported.

Russian President Vladimir Putin called the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny in a Russian prison a "sad event" and claimed he had been prepared to exchange him.

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Navy skirts will be replaced by a knee-length 'Priestlands tartan' in September - Solent

Parents have accused a school of discrimination after it changed the skirt in its uniform to a hideous tartan design that costs 45 but not the trousers.

Priestlands School in Pennington, in New Forest in Hampshire, is said to be inundated with complaints following the changes it made to its uniform rules.

Parents say the new policy is morally wrong as women have to pay more in comparison to boys, who can buy school trousers from any supplier at a time when people are struggling financially.

Introduced by Peter Main, the headteacher, the new rules state the only skirt girls may wear is a tartan garment that costs up to 45 and is only available from one local supplier, PMG, situated some four miles away from the school.

Previously, girls wore a plain navy, pleated skirt which cost between 21.99 and 26.99.

The new rules, which will come into force in September, will affect the 603 girls that attend the mixed-sex school, which has 1,245 pupils.

The school is implementing the changes following parent and pupil responses to a survey about the uniform, Mr Main said. Other changes include introducing a new polo shirt, which can be worn by both boys and girls.

Writing to parents, Mr Main said: A new school skirt will be introduced, without a logo, in a Priestlands tartan.

Students choosing to wear this item must have it fitted in person to ensure it is knee-length.

All students wishing to wear a skirt in September must wear this one. Cost 36.99  44.99.

We recognise that whilst all students could wear trousers some will still want to wear a skirt and there will be a cost implication for parents.

Priestlands School in Pennington in New Forest - Solent

One parent of a Year Eight girl, who wishes to remain anonymous, branded the new policy absolutely disgusting.

The 36-year-old mother said: I think it absolutely discriminates against girls because I dont see how you can say the boys can go anywhere but the girls have to go and get measured.

I feel like they are trying to force the girls into wearing trousers which they dont want to do.

I know my daughter, shes not going to want to wear trousers and I dont feel its right to dictate what she wears.

The mother said she thinks the pink tax has struck again.

She added: Woman having to pay more... its disgusting. I just cant believe it.

This is a prime example that I could go to Primark or Aldi and buy my son a pair of trousers, but for my daughter, I am forced to pay 35.

I instantly feel like we have gone a little bit backwards. I am so disappointed with the school.

A tone-deaf action

Another parent who wished to remain anonymous described the policy as morally wrong.

The 46-year-old said: Its just a tone-deaf action by people who dont have children at the school.

The school told me its all to do with having robust clothing that is good with the school colours.

Theres nothing in the history of this school that has a school tartan... where has this come from is my question.

But, some parents approved of the decision as its a way of overcoming the short skirts syndrome.

In response to the criticism, Mr Main said: After parents and students responded to a survey criticising the appearance, quality and design of the school skirt we have introduced a new one.

We researched supply options and found a British company that could provide all necessary sizes of the knee-length checked skirt.

Many parents have been in touch to say how much they like it and what an improvement it is. We are also aware that some parents have criticised it.

Understanding that cost is an issue for some families, we introduced the skirt with a 50 per cent discount for all Year 11 students and a 20 per cent discount for the other years.

We also offer support for families where finance is a barrier to purchasing uniforms.

All students are still able to wear trousers or shorts which comply with our requirements.

The most recent Ofsted report branded the school Good.

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A sign at Cedar High School in Cedar City welcomes visitors on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020. Iron Countys school board will ask voters whether to reinstate Cedar High Schools mascot to Redmen, just five years after the board voted 3-2 to retire the mascot adopted in the 1940s.

Iron Countys school board will ask voters whether to reinstate Cedar High Schools mascot to Redmen, just five years after the board voted 3-2 to retire the mascot adopted in the 1940s.

Afterward, Cedar High School adopted a wolf as its mascot and The Red moniker, rebranding the schools signage and uniforms.

Three members of the seven-member school board requested that a proposal to reinstate the mascot be placed on the boards agenda. A motion to reinstate the name failed but the board voted 6-1 on Tuesday to allow voters to consider a ballot question whether to restore the historic mascot, placing the issue on the ballot to a vote as early as legally possible, according to the board members motion.

Recently, Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah formally requested that the district not reinstate the Redmen name amid calls from others to restore it. The tribes cultural resource manager told the school board that the words redskin and redman have been historically used to degrade and dehumanize Native Americans.

Corrina Bow, Tribal Chairwoman of the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, said she is a Cedar High School alumnus.

While a student, I wanted to fit in and be accepted by my peers in school. I accepted the Redmen mascot, the schools interpretation of who they thought we were. Sometimes it was hurtful, and sometimes it was really funny, Bow said.

But after her granddaughter stepped up to retire the mascot five years ago, she faced considerable pushback from the community.

I became very fearful for her life as she received death threats from the mature elders of the Cedar City community, Bow said. When the school board voted to retire the mascot, the tribe expressed its gratitude, she said.

Others said it was time to restore the mascot to the Redmen.

Iron County Commissioner Paul Cozzens, speaking on behalf of the commission, urged the school board to reinstate the Redmen as the nickname of Cedar High School. Our examination of this issue reveals a process that falls short of the dignity expected in Iron County.

Cozzens said, despite conducting three public forums, ostensibly to listen to the community, a review of a transcript of the then-school boards meeting revealed officials planning how to change the name, not whether to do so. Cozzens said there was overwhelming support for the Redmen mascot at the forums.

Cozzens, wearing a Cedar Redmen T-shirt, noted, While every elected body makes mistakes, they must also rectify them.

He added, This has never been about a mascot. For me, its been about fighting against the cancel culture.

Cozzens prefaced his remarks to the board noting Iron County is the authorizing agency of Iron County School District.

State statute, however, explicitly states that school districts are independent of city and county governments.

In 2019, a committee of students, teachers and tribal members voted 17-7, recommending that the mascot be changed. Multiple public hearings were held prior to the school board vote to change the mascot, which some community members supported, citing tradition, while others opposed it, calling it culturally insensitive and hurtful.

Iron County School District Superintendent Lance Hatch, in a statement, said, I acknowledge and recognize that some may have been harmed by the Redmen name over the years and we do not dismiss the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utahs request to not reinstate the name.

However, I also acknowledge the harm that has been done to community members who feel a connection to the name.

Although the school rebranded after the school board vote, it has not been a settled issue. A small group has occasionally addressed the board to call for a return to the Redmen mascot.

Board member Jeff Corry raised the issue with the board in 2021 but the board took no action. When Corry and board member Dave Staheli campaigned for election to the school board, each backed reinstatement of the Redmen mascot.

They were joined by board member Lauren Lewis in introducing the proposal to the board to consider reinstating the mascot.

With respect to putting the matter to a vote of the county electorate, Hatch said, Our hope is that with the support of this community, we can heal this divide and move forward, working together to be respectful of one another and ensuring that our current students receive the education they deserve without interruption.
BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with representatives from American business, strategic and academic communities in Beijing on Wednesday.

"The success of China and the United States is each other's opportunity. As long as both sides treat each other as partners with mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, China-U.S. relations will get better," Xi said.

"China's economy is healthy and sustainable," Xi said, noting that China's growth rate was one of the fastest among major economies last year.

Xi said China is planning and implementing a series of major measures to comprehensively deepen reform, foster a world-class business environment that is market-oriented, law-based and internationalized, and provide broader development space for international businesses including U.S. companies.

Xi urged the United States to work with China in the same direction, establish a correct strategic perception, and properly handle sensitive issues to maintain the momentum for bilateral relations to stabilize from a downward spiral.

The attendees included Evan Greenberg, chairman of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, Stephen Schwarzman, chairman and CEO of the Blackstone Group, Cristiano Amon, president and CEO of Qualcomm, Graham Allison, founding dean of Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government, and Craig Allen, president of the U.S.-China Business Council. 
The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of Education and Superintendent Joan Mast announced Warren Hynes has been named the new Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School principal.

Hynes will begin in the role when Principal David Heisey retires at the end of the 2023-24 school year.

Hynes brings two decades of teaching and leadership experience, including from his current position as the assistant principal at Westfield High School.

We warmly welcome Dr. Hynes to Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools and are excited to have found a leader who is talented, passionate, and ready to serve our high school community, Mast said in a news release. Throughout the selection process, we grew more and more confident that Dr. Hynes shares the values and vision that make our schools a special place for teachers, staff, students, and their families.

Warren Hynes is Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School's next principal.

The Board of Education unanimously approved Hynes' hiring at its meeting on March 21. The search for a new principal began earlier this year when Heisey announced that he would retire after 25 years as principal of the school.

We are tremendously grateful to Dr. Heisey for dedicating his career to the students and families of Scotch Plains-Fanwood, Mast said in the news release. We wish him the best in retirement and will always remember and value his contributions to SPFHS.

More: How Scotch Plains-Fanwood schools has expanded student mental health support

Hynes was selected from a pool of 42 applicants and went through interviews with various district, school, and community stakeholders, including parents, students, staff, and teachers who gave feedback on the qualities and characteristics they wanted to see in the next principal.

It is my privilege and honor to join the Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School community, Hynes said in the news release. I cant wait to begin the exciting work of collaborating with students, teachers, staff, families, and the Scotch Plains and Fanwood communities to continue elevating the educational opportunities that the district is known for.

Hynes holds a bachelors degree in journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a masters degree in American Studies from the University of Massachusetts Boston, a post-master's degree in educational leadership from Montclair State University, and a doctorate in educational leadership from Seton Hall University. In May 2023, he successfully defended his dissertation that explored how student-centered inquiry using media literacy tools can influence the conclusions students draw about race in the United States.

Beginning his career as a newspaper reporter and columnist, Hynes also taught various English and journalism classes at Westfield High School before moving into the assistant principal role in 2018. He has also served as acting supervisor of English Language Arts for Westfields two middle schools and high school.

As assistant principal, he took on a number of leadership roles and served on various committees, including the curriculum review committee, diversity equity inclusion committee, strategic planning committee, environmental committee, pandemic response team, and Helping Hands committee to support members of the school community in financial need.

As well as supporting the schools day-to-day operations, Hynes led professional development and schoolwide dialogues on diversity, equity, and inclusion and racial literacy. He supported and oversaw peer tutoring programs and community service initiatives. In 2018, he was awarded the Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award.

Mast said Hynes places an emphasis on student-centered learning, is a strong communicator, is knowledgeable on ChatGPT and maintaining academic integrity in the world of artificial intelligence, and is cognizant of mental health issues.

Brad Wadlow is a staff writer for MyCentralJersey.com

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School names Warren Hynes principal
Seattles Wing Luke Museum is getting help after several of its windows were smashed by a vandal.

The Seattle City Council approved $50,000 to cover the cost.

Craig Milne was charged in the September incident, accused of smashing the museums windows with a sledgehammer while saying, The Chinese have ruined my life.

Milne was charged with two felonies, one for a hate crime and another for first-degree malicious mischief.

The Washington State Department of Commerce also pledged to give the museum $50,000 for repairs.

A few months ago, the museum unveiled a new mural on the side of the building.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  Waiting for the city bus near Hillsborough and Florida Avenue in Tampa has become a frightening experience for some. Riders have nicknamed the area Ratopia and Ratlantis due to a rodent issue.

Lavonnte Jerry regularly commutes along Route 34 and tells WFLA he uses the bus stop to pick up his daughter from school and his wife from work.

And when he waits for the bus, hes often met with rodents.

I see about 30 to 40, 50, rats out here all the time, Jerry said. It is nasty because you know, they be coming out here while kids be out here and people be out here eating food and they just be running past you, it just looks horrible out here.

The rodents can be seen scurrying around a massive pyramid-like burrow at the bus stop. Crews from WFLA spotted some of the reported activity while at Ratopia on Tuesday.

Orkin releases list of rattiest cities in the US

Riders also told WFLA that others have been feeding the rats, which may only be attracting more to Ratlantis.

The City of Tampa sent a pest control company to the area. WFLA watched them set up traps near the burrows.

Tampa recently landed on the list of the rattiest cities in the U.S., albeit at No. 36, coming in behind Nashville, Kansas City, and Sacramento.

Rodents multiply swiftly and when an infestation is left unattended, they can cause extensive damage to homes and yards, Ben Hottel, an Orkin entomologist, said in a news release announcing the companys 2023 list of the rattiest cities. Rats are capable of squeezing into spaces through holes as small as a quarter, which makes it especially important to seal cracks from the outside.

Rats can also carry diseases including hantavirus, leptospirosis and even monkeypox, according to the CDC.

KTLAs Marc Sternfield and Nexstars Michael Bartiromo contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) on Tuesday called on the Biden administration to declassify information on the investigation of Paul Manafort, the former Trump campaign chairman who served federal prison time as a result of Robert Muellers investigation into the Trump campaigns ties to Russia  and whos now reportedly in talks to work with Trump again.

Trump, who pardoned Manafort in 2020, sparing him the remaining years of his sentence, is pulling for the GOP operative to get back into politics, according to the New York Times and Washington Post. Both reported last week that Manafort was in talks to help out with this years Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Manafort, 74, served prison time for tax and bank fraud convictions, the result of his hiding money he made through unregistered lobbying for pro-Russian Ukrainian politicians. He was released to home confinement due to coronavirus risks in 2020, shortly before Trump pardoned him in late 2020. Trump had praised Manafort for initially refusing to break and cooperate with investigators.

During the 2016 presidential campaign, Manafort also privately shared Trump campaign polling data with Konstantin Kilimnik, who investigators found had ties to Russian intelligence.

A bipartisan report from a Senate select committee investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election, published in 2020, found that Manaforts presence on the [2016] Campaign and proximity to Trump created opportunities for Russian intelligence services to exert influence over, and acquire confidential information on, the Trump Campaign.

Taken as a whole, Manaforts high-level access and willingness to share information with individuals closely affiliated with the Russian intelligence services ... represented a grave counterintelligence threat, the report said.

Wyden, in a letter to Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, argued that extensive redactions in that report  related to Manaforts interactions with Kilimnik, as well as evidence connecting Kilimnik to Russian intelligences hack-and-leak operations  ought to be made public. He also urged Haines to make public information on Oleg Deripaska, the pro-Russian Ukrainian oligarch to whom Manafort had previous ties.

When she was confirmed by the Senate in 2021, Haines pledged to undertake a review of the report and see what else might be declassified, Wyden noted. His letter urged Haines to finish that review expeditiously, if it is not already completed.

It is critical that these details be made public to the greatest extent possible, Wyden wrote. As the Committee recommended, the public should be informed as soon as a foreign influence campaign is detected. In this case, a known grave counterintelligence threat is reportedly joining a presidential campaign. Only by understanding the details of that threat can the public guard against a malign foreign influence effort that could once again threaten an American election.

Related...
FILE - The Cinderella Castle is seen at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, July 14, 2023, in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Allies of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Disney reached a settlement agreement Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in a lawsuit over who controls Walt Disney Worlds governing district.(AP Photo/John Raoux, File)

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP)  Allies of Gov. Ron DeSantis and Disney reached a settlement agreement Wednesday in a state court fight over how Walt Disney World is developed in the future following the takeover of the theme park resort's government by the Florida governor.

In a meeting, the DeSantis-appointed members of the board of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District approved the settlement agreement, ending almost two years of litigation that was sparked by DeSantis takeover of the district from Disney supporters following the companys opposition to Floridas so-called Dont Say Gay law.

The 2022 law bans classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades and was championed by the Republican governor, who used Disney as a punching bag in speeches until he suspended his presidential campaign this year.

The district provides municipal services such as firefighting, planning and mosquito control, among other things, and was controlled by Disney supporters for most of its five decades.

The agreement came a day after the appointment of a new board member, replacing a DeSantis-appointed board chairman who was a Disney critic. Under the deal, covenants and a development agreement Disney supporters on the board made with the company just before the state takeover would be dropped and the new board agreed to operate under an earlier plan.

Jeff Vahle, president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a statement Wednesday that the company was pleased a settlement had been reached.

This agreement opens a new chapter of constructive engagement with the new leadership of the district and serves the interests of all parties by enabling significant continued investment and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs and economic opportunity in the state, Vahle said.

DeSantis, who was in Orlando on Wednesday, said at a news conference that "we have been vindicated on all those actions.

Im glad that they were able to do that settlement," DeSantis said. "Those 11th hour covenants and restrictions were never going to be valid. We knew that.

As punishment for Disney's opposition to the controversial law, DeSantis took over the governing district through legislation passed by the Republican-controlled Florida Legislature and appointed a new board of supervisors. Disney sued DeSantis and his appointees, claiming the companys free speech rights were violated for speaking out against the legislation. A federal judge dismissed that lawsuit in January, but Disney appealed.

Before control of the district changed hands from Disney allies to DeSantis appointees early last year, the Disney supporters on its board signed agreements with Disney shifting control over design and construction at Disney World to the company. The new DeSantis appointees claimed the eleventh-hour deals neutered their powers and the district sued the company in state court in Orlando to have the contracts voided.

Disney filed counterclaims that included asking the state court to declare the agreements valid and enforceable.

Under the terms of Wednesday's settlement agreement, Disney lets stand a determination by the board of DeSantis appointees that the comprehensive plan approved by the Disney supporters before the takeover is null and void. Disney also agrees that a development agreement and restrictive covenants passed before the takeover are also not valid, according to the settlement terms.

Instead, a comprehensive plan from 2020 will be used with the new board able to make changes to it, and the agreement suggests Disney and the new board will negotiate a new development agreement in the near future.

Disney also agreed to put on hold the appeal of the federal lawsuit pending the negotiations on the development agreement and other matters, and it will drop its two state lawsuits against the district, one of which was a public records complaint.

It looks to me like both sides called uncle, said Richard Foglesong, a Rollins College professor emeritus who wrote a definitive account of Disney Worlds governance in his book, Married to the Mouse: Walt Disney World and Orlando.

Disney has an interest in ending this and so does the oversight board, he added. So, they both win.

Since the takeover last year, the district has faced an exodus of experienced staffers, with many in exit surveys complaining that the governing body has been politicized since the changeover. Just this month, the districts administrator, Glen Gilzean, left to become a county elections supervisor at half the $400,000 salary he was earning at the district, and the districts DeSantis-appointed board chairman, Martin Garcia, departed the following week.

In their place, DeSantis on Tuesday appointed Orlando businessman Craig Mateer to the board and board members on Wednesday approved former DeSantis advisor Stephanie Kopelousos to be the district's new administrator.

Mateer, a donor to DeSantis campaigns, previously had been appointed by the governor to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority and the Board of Governors, which oversees the state university system. Kopelousos was director of legislative affairs for DeSantis. She also had served as secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation under then-Florida Gov. Charlie Crist and was a former county manager in northeast Florida.

Garcia was a vocal critic of Disney and his replacement by Mateer, who is well-known in Orlando tourism and business circles, may have made Disney comfortable enough with the board to reach an agreement, Foglesong said.

Board member Charbel Barakat said the board was looking forward to taking a more cooperative approach with the entertainment giant.

We are eager to work with Disney, Barakat said after the settlement deal was approved.

___

Associated Press writer Brendan Farrington in Tallahassee, Florida, contributed to this report.

___

Follow Mike Schneider on X, formerly known as Twitter: @MikeSchneiderAP.
A storm overflow at Bexhill-on-Sea. The water industry has been accused of failing to invest in infrastructure to cope with changing weather - GETTY IMAGES

Sewage spills rose to a record high last year, new data from the Environment Agency released on Wednesday will show.

The number of releases topped more than 477,000 over 4 million hours in 2023, according to early estimates from the agency, representing a 58 per cent rise on the previous year.

Final figures are expected to be slightly lower, but will still show that last year saw the highest number of spills in England since monitoring of sewage outflows began in 2016.

Last year there were 301,091 spills, a drop on 2021 that the Government said was largely due to dry weather.

The water industry is expected to point to the fact that last year was the sixth wettest in England since Met Office records began in 1836, as one of the main reasons behind the spike.

Water companies are permitted to release sewage into rivers and seas during exceptional circumstances, such as extreme wet weather, to stop it backing up into peoples homes.

But the regularity of spills has led to criticism that the industry has failed to invest in infrastructure to cope with changing weather and increasing population.

Investigation into water companies

The Environment Agency is conducting the largest ever criminal investigation into potential widespread non-compliance by water and sewerage companies at thousands of sewage treatment works.

The increase in the number of spills this year can also be partly attributed to increased monitoring, with 100 per cent of known storm overflows now fitted with monitors, up from 91 per cent the previous year.

But the new figures will likely put further pressure on the Government to act on sewage spills, which it has said will take until 2050 to fix.

Responding to the new figures, James Wallace, the CEO of charity River Action said the scale of the discharges was a final indictment of a failing industry.

Having run amok with bill payers money for decades, they discharged untreated sewage into rivers and coastal waters more than 4 million hours last year from nearly 500,000 spills through storm overflows that are supposed to be only used in extreme weather events.

Last year the industry apologised for the first time for dumping sewage into rivers and waterways for decades, but said tens of billions of investment via household bills would be required for the biggest modernisation of sewers since the Victorian era.

Water companies have asked Ofwat to approve bill rises of an average 40 per cent over the next decade to cover the cost of new infrastructure to fix sewage spills and other issues.

The Government has introduced several new measures to clamp down on sewage spills and tighten regulations in recent weeks, including a whistleblower hotline it announced on Tuesday.

It brought forward 180m in water company investment over the next year, and announced a ban on water company bosses receiving bonuses where a company has committed serious criminal breaches.

But it appeared to row back on plans to completely end the practice of water companies monitoring their own effluent discharges for possible breaches, announcing these would only be reduced from 2025.

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A 16-year-old boy is in hospital after being stabbed a number of times in a Sheffield street, police have said.

Emergency services were called to Hucklow Road in Firth Park at about 17:10 GMT on Tuesday, South Yorkshire Police said.

The boy was taken to hospital with multiple stab wounds. He is said to be in a stable condition.

Forensic searches have taken place at the scene. No arrests have been made and the force appealed for witnesses.

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ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  A double shooting in the Norwood Township neighborhood in north St. Louis County has left three injured and one in custody, according to officials.

Around 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, officers were called to the 2000 block of Valette Drive. Upon arrival, police found an adult male and an adult female with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Both were transported to a local hospital.

An additional adult female also experienced injuries to her face. Police say the injuries were from a fight prior to the shooting. She was taken to an area hospital.

2 St. Louis suburbs among best places to live in the US, study finds

The preliminary investigation says the incident stemmed from a disagreement between individuals who are known to each other.

According to police, one suspect is in custody.

This is a developing story. More will be posted as it comes into the FOX 2 newsroom.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- The essential reason for the popularity of mainland food, scenery and pop culture among Taiwan compatriots, especially among young people, is that people across the Taiwan Strait belong to the same family and share the same customs, said a Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks when responding to a media query about the craze that a local version of malatang, literally meaning a numbingly spicy hotpot, from Tianshui in Gansu Province, has created in Taiwan.

Recent trends in Taiwan, such as learning the Kemusan dancing of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, traveling to the "ice city" Harbin in Heilongjiang Province, and the popularity of local foods of Sichuan and Gansu, show that all Chinese share the same culture, eating habits and interests.

The query also cited many young people in Taiwan as saying that "the mainland is different from what the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has said."

Commenting on this, Chen said that the mainland welcomes Taiwan compatriots to come and see it with their own eyes, and also hoped they would think deeply about why the DPP deliberately conceals the truth and lies to the people about the mainland. 
The technology doesnt work as planned. The numbers dont add up. And ordinary people may have their lives ruined by a system that barely even recognises they exist. If ITV is looking for a follow-up to its hit drama about the Post Office scandal its producers and script writers do not have to look very far. It is playing out in real-time right now. In reality, the smart meter fiasco risks turning into the next Horizon scandal.

Like so many government-backed technologies, it was sold as a way of making the system more efficient, with the added benefit of helping us hit our net zero targets. Smart meters installed in our homes would give us more accurate readings of how much electricity we were using, while the little monitors in the corner might gently nudge us towards consuming a little less (which would be helpful, given that the Government has woefully failed to make sure we have enough power to keep the lights switched on).

Whats not to like about that?

Well, quite a lot as it turns out. According to the latest figures from the Department for Energy, Security and Net Zero, of the 30 million meters installed in British homes, almost four million are not working properly. The estimate was 2.7 million in June last year, but has now been revised dramatically upwards.

The results of that can often be painful. Households may well have been overcharged for the energy use, and at a time when many are already struggling to pay their energy bills. Some households might now have to go back to manual readings if they want to question their bill, but the technology can make that difficult, too.

There is a depressingly familiar pattern starting to emerge. The computer system doesnt work as it should. There is plenty of buck passing, with people initially denying there is anything to worry about, then blaming someone else for the problems, and finally denying that anything can ever be done to fix the problem. It seems that no one has learned anything from the Post Office scandal. Instead, ministers will grimly press ahead with a technology that clearly doesnt work, and if people are forced to pay an inflated sum, then it will simply be brushed under the carpet.

Even more terrifyingly, the meters may eventually be used for time-of-day charging. It would not be much of a surprise if Ed Miliband, as energy minister in a government led by Sir Keir Starmer, introduces some form of energy rationing. After all, there seems to be little hope of ever hitting our net zero targets without it. Your smart meter might then decide when you can and cant boil the kettle, regardless of whether it works properly  and if it doesnt work well enough, thats tough.

There are two clear lessons from this latest catastrophe. Firstly, the Government should stop relying on computer revolutions. We have plenty of evidence that Whitehall almost always gets IT wrong. And secondly, it should stop trying to micromanage every household. There is nothing intrinsically wrong with smart meters any more than there is with smart phones, or smart speakers, or smart TVs, or any other device where the addition of a couple of microchips upgrades performance.

But it should leave it to the market to decide. If the product is genuinely better, people will be perfectly happy to buy it, and if it is rubbish they will probably decline.

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A Latino-focused internship program at the Smithsonians National Museum of the American Latino now states the program is equally open to students of all races and ethnicities following a lawsuit settlement with the American Alliance for Equal Rights.

The internship was the subject of a lawsuit against the director of the National Museum of the American Latino and the director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services filed last month by the alliance  which is led by legal strategist Edward Blum, who was also behind the Supreme Court case that dismantled affirmative action in college admissions.

The lawsuit claimed the Smithsonians Latino Museum Studies Program undergraduate internship violated the US Constitution by discriminating based on race and ethnicity, stating the program hadnt hired any non-Latino interns in the two years it operated  2022 and 2023.

When the Alliance sued, the Museum said the internship was for Latina, Latino, and Latinx-identifying undergraduate students and focused on increasing the representation of Latina and Latino museum professionals, the American Alliance for Equal Rights said in a statement Wednesday.

But according to the settlement, the defendants submitted a brief in response to the lawsuit stating the National Museum of the American Latino does not consider an applicants race or ethnicity as a factor for awarding an internship and it does not collect data on race or ethnicity from the Internship Program applicants.

The internship programs website now says in bold: The Undergraduate Internship is equally open to students of all races and ethnicities, without preference or restriction based on race or ethnicity. The Museum does not use racial or ethnic classifications or preferences in selecting awardees for the Undergraduate Internship.

The program has also agreed to add language to its scoring rubric saying the internship is equally open to students of all races and ethnicities. Reviewers should not give preference or restrict selection based on race or ethnicity, according to the settlement.

Edward Blum, the affirmative action opponent behind the lawsuit challenging Harvard University's consideration of race in student admissions, stands for a portrait at the Supreme Court of the United States in Washington, DC. - Shuran Huang for The Washington Post via Getty Images

Every student who is interested in this area of museum studies should have the opportunity to compete for an internship without their race being a factor, Blum said in the statement. Corporations, law firms, academia, and cultural institutions must end these kinds of unlawful, racially exclusive programs and policies.

The language added to the programs website and scoring rubric as part of the settlement spells out what had been our practice already, David Coronado, a spokesperson for the National Museum of the American Latino said in an email to CNN.

The National Museum of the American Latino reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to equal opportunity for all internship applicants, regardless of race or ethnicity, Coronado said.

The Smithsonian lawsuit was among several legal challenges Blum filed since the Supreme Court case that gutted affirmative action. Last month, the Supreme Court rejected a request from Blums group, Students for Fair Admissions, to temporarily block the US Military Academy at West Point from race-conscious admissions, CNN previously reported.

Blum is currently in a legal battle with the Fearless Fund, a Black women-owned venture capitalist fund, over its grant program that offers funding exclusively to Black women entrepreneurs. In August, Blum also sued two international law firms over their diversity fellowships, but he later dropped one of the lawsuits after the firm decided to open its fellowship to all associates.

The lawsuits come amid a string of attacks against diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in corporate America, schools and higher education in recent months.

Black business leaders and DEI experts have told CNN Blums lawsuits stand to undo decades of progress toward leveling the playing field for Black and brown people in various job fields. DEI programs, they say, are being created to foster safer, more inclusive work environments for people of all races, genders, sexual orientations and religious identities.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story gave the wrong first name for a spokesperson for the National Museum of the American Latino. It is David Coronado.

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Derek Tyson says the new rules mean he'll be making a loss on his properties and will have to sell up

It has taken Derek Tyson 30 years to grow his business to where it is today. He owns a considerable number of properties across Lothian, Fife and Angus, having built up his buy-to-let investment portfolio from scratch after decades of incredibly hard work.

But after the Scottish Governments latest plans for landlords, he is now on the brink of throwing in the towel.

A housing bill laid by the SNP today with Green party backing proposes to give authorities powers to prevent landlords from raising rents for as long as five years.

Other proposals include allowing courts to delay evictions during the winter months, and preventing landlords from unreasonably refusing pets or requests to paint the walls.

The radical proposals go much further than proposed rental reforms in England, where Michael Gove wants to bring an end to so-called no-fault evictions.

This is a tax on aspiration, says Scottish landlord Derek Tyson - Stuart Nicol

Ill have to sell up  its lunacy

Mr Tyson says the latest crackdown will finish off Scotlands rental market for good.

This is absolutely the worst situation for landlords Ive seen, he says. Its at the point of no return.

It means Ill be making a loss on multiple properties. Ill have to sell up. Its incredibly frustrating.

The plans would give local authorities powers to create rent control areas and cap rent rises at 0pc. The Scottish Government said it wants to enact long-term rent controls by the end of 2025.

They follow a string of housing policies, tax rises and green initiatives introduced under the SNP.

A rent cap of 3pc on new tenancies introduced by former first minister Nicola Sturgeon has already backfired on tenants, with Scotland suffering the largest rent rises of anywhere in the UK.

Mr Tyson, 53, says the new policy means he will be forced to evict tenants.

We already cant move rents because of rent controls, so were going to have to give tenants bad news.

Rent controls have been a disaster. The less rental stock you have, the more rents go up.

Its a tax on aspiration. The people making these decisions sit in this echo chamber of Holyrood. They arent surveyors or economists  theyre lunatics.

This will backfire on the very people they are trying to help

John Haagensen, who lets out six properties in Glasgow, says all the SNP housing policies have been terrible for landlords and tenants.

He believes this latest move will accelerate the exit of landlords from the market.

He added: Its devastating news. Weve already had rent controls for years  and weve already seen the results  massively high rents.

As a landlord, you need to increase the rent when you get new tenants because you know you cant increase it throughout the tenancy.

Weve been hounded for long enough by the Government  all Im trying to do is house tenants. We have good tenants. But sooner or later were going to have to throw in the keys and sell.

They are making it more and more difficult for private landlords to provide housing for tenants which is desperately needed, to the point when we are forced to reconsider being in the market.

This wont help people who need to rent. What are our options? To run the properties at a loss?

It will simply kill off investment

Since Ms Sturgeons rent cap, four Scottish councils  including Edinburgh and Glasgow  have declared a housing emergency, with private housing stock dwindling as landlords sell up.

Michael Lawson and his family claim to be Fifes biggest landlord, focused on only buying homes to let in three postcodes that span Scotlands eastern county.

He puts his portfolio of more than 70 properties down to 25 years of family graft. Some of Mr Lawsons tenants have been in his properties for 15 years.

But he says that his costs are now going up exponentially and he has started to slim down his property holdings.

'Rent caps are making the housing crisis worse. I've already sold two properties this year and plan to sell more,' says Michael Lawson

He adds: The rent control ideas look like theyre heading for trouble. They will scare off investors and push more landlords out of the market, which will only end up exacerbating the situation even more for tenants.

Im already feeling the pinch of the Scottish Governments policies firsthand. Costs are going up exponentially, the increasingly ill-thought through legislation is driving good landlords like us out of the market.

This is just making things tougher for council and housing association properties, which are already stretched thin.

The way this legislation is shaping up, it seems like its just going to make Scotlands housing crisis even worse. Itll just make it harder for would-be tenants to find good homes where they want to live, at prices they can afford.

We already sold two this year, we have two more that are going to market next month.

Most landlords are pragmatic, they are looking for a return on their money and if property is to become a high risk low reward activity then unfortunately they will vote with their feet and that capital will be deployed elsewhere.

The big question is where will the Government house these people?

Unveiling the plans today, Paul McLennan, the SNPs Housing Minister said: Early action, through the kinds of measures included in the Housing Bill, results in fewer people reaching the point of housing crisis.

It also means people facing homelessness have more choice and control over where they live, helping them to maintain relationships in their community and stay in work.

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Three things landlords must do to survive 2024

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Even before the Hate Crime and Public Disorder (Scotland) Act takes full effect on Monday  April Fools Day, appropriately  the Scottish police force is facing some difficult questions.

Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser is threatening legal action over Police Scotlands decision to include his name on a database of non-crime hate incidents (NCHIs) after a trans activist chose to take offence at one of Mr Frasers tweets. The police have already come under fire after it admitted that it will no longer investigate certain crimes, including some cases of theft and criminal damage. But when it comes to alleged hate crimes, they leave no stone unturned.

In Mr Frasers case, they carried out an investigation but concluded that no crime had taken place and no charges were brought. But they still added him to their NCHI database and failed to inform Mr Fraser of the fact. He only found out after the same person who made the original allegation made a further complaint against him to the Holyrood standards authorities, citing his inclusion on the database as evidence against him.

It could hardly get more Kafkaesque: an original accusation is made, it is found to have no basis, but the accused is nonetheless listed on a police database, which prospective employers may, according to Disclosure Scotland, have access to during a recruitment process.

The implications are obvious and deadly serious: political activists can use police processes to smear law-abiding citizens, impeding their employment prospects for the crime of holding opinions with which they disagree.

Things can only get worse when the Hate Crime Act becomes enforceable on Monday. One can imagine that in basement bedrooms all over the country, activists will be anticipating with glee the movement of their clocks second hands towards midnight on Sunday, when they can press send on all those complaints theyve been storing up for just this occasion. And if, as will be the case in the vast majority of cases, innocent civilians are inconvenienced and intimidated by a police investigation only to be informed they committed no crime, they will still face the prospect of being placed on Holyroods sinister equivalent of the naughty step.

Mr Fraser, who was formerly the Scottish Conservatives deputy leader at Holyrood, said: I was  and remain  furious that the spurious complaint made against me was logged as a hate incident without my knowledge. How many other members of the public are similarly unwitting victims of this Orwellian approach to policing, despite having committed no crime?

Its a good question, as is this follow-up: why on earth are Police Scotland involving themselves in the first place in any incident where no crime has been committed? Are we now funding a national social work department, where uniformed officers job is to address hurt feelings and reprimand citizens at the behest of keyboard warriors?

In England the practice by some police forces of recording NCHIs has already been ended, but good old progressive Scotland is way behind the curve as usual. And this will remain the case so long as its chief constable continues to receive support from the three of the main parties at Holyrood  the SNP, Scottish Labour and the Liberal Democrats  for her ludicrous, undemocratic policy.

For in Scotland, the term progressive only has meaning if its dictionary definition is subverted for political ends. It was once considered reactionary to assume someones guilt unless and until proven guilty. This is no longer the case in Scotland, where the policing of peoples thoughts and words now takes precedence over the humdrum and tiresome job of investigating actual crimes.

True progressives will hope and pray for any legal action mounted by Mr Fraser to succeed. Only then will politicians wake up to the tyranny that their good intentions have engendered. Put simply, it is unacceptable for citizens innocent of any crime to have their political views registered by the police and accessed by future potential employers  or indeed anyone else. Any court will have done us all a big favour by ruling that our personal political opinions are none of the polices damn business.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Gearing up to start the new school year? Registration is now open for the Socorro Independent School District (SISD).

SISD will be opening their registration for grades pre-K through 12 grade on Monday, April 8.

According to the school district, they will be providing free pre-K for three and four-year-olds, free college classes, career and technical trainings, and more.

The free pre-K program will be a free all day program for four-year-olds and half day for qualifying three-year-olds.

SISD says the three-year-old pre-K program is on a first come, first serve basis and all pre-K students may apply for the dual language academy.

For more information on the pre-K program and to see if your child qualifies, visit their website at www.sisd.net/prek or contact your elementary home school.

Transfer applications for students within and outside of SISD will start accepting applications on April 1, according to SISD.

To register your child or for more information on enrollment, visit their website at www.sisd.net/enrollment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Even though Florida isnt in the sweet spot in the middle of the country where folks can witness a total solar eclipse on April 8, we will still experience a partial eclipse that day, and there are some viewing parties planned in the Tampa Bay area.

There will be a celebration on Clearwater Beach, an educational setup at St. Petersburg College and special solar telescopes available at Tampas Museum of Science and Industry, among others. Just be sure to keep safety in mind and protect your eyes, scientists warn.

Between about 12:30 and 4:30 p.m. that day, the path of the eclipse will move from Mexico and proceed northeast across the United States. The moon is going to pass in front of the sun, bringing a few minutes of darkness similar to dusk.

Prime viewing will be in a swath across the Midwest and Canada, including the cities of Dallas; Indianapolis; Cleveland; Buffalo, New York; and Montreal. But we wont be totally left out in Florida.

Here in St. Petersburg, we will see a partial eclipse, with 65% of the sun covered by the moon at eclipse maximum, said St. Petersburg College professor Craig Joseph, who heads SPCs planetarium. Because only a portion of the sun will be covered, this unique event can be viewed only if special precautions are taken to reduce the suns brilliance to safe levels.

The college will host a viewing of the eclipse on April 8 between 1:30 and 4 p.m., where they will supply eclipse viewers and telescopes with solar filters. They will be set up in the quad area of the St. Petersburg/Gibbs campus, near the southwest entrance of the West St. Petersburg Library at 6700 Eighth Ave. N.

Joseph said the bay area will notice things changing at 1:43 p.m. when the moon first touches the suns disc.

Over the next 77 minutes, more and more of the sun will be covered by the moon, with mid-eclipse occurring just before 3 p.m., Joseph said, adding that the last of it will end at 4:14 p.m.

Visit St. Pete/Clearwater and the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival will team up for a special viewing party on Clearwater Beach. Beachgoers can pick up free eclipse glasses at the Visit St. Pete/Clearwater booth at the Sugar Sand Festival starting at noon.

It is bound to create a special viewing experience during our picturesque springtime sunshine, an announcement said.

The Sugar Sand Festival, an annual sand-sculpting event that runs March 29 to April 14, will have a special live sand-sculpting display that day to celebrate the total solar eclipse.

The eclipse gives us the perfect opportunity to host a unique watch party, said Steve Grimes, chief marketing office for the Visit St. Pete/Clearwater tourism bureau.

The Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa will host a Solar Eclipse Celebration in its outdoor Science Park on April 8 from 1:30-4 p.m. that is included with MOSI admission. They will supply sun-safe solar telescopes with guidance from MOSI astronomers at 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa.

There will also be hands-on eclipse activities led by educators in the Primary Colors Amphitheatre, and worldwide live streams of the eclipse will be on televisions in the museum. And at the eclipse viewing in Science Park, guests can view the eclipse with glasses that can be purchased for $5.

Because the moon is closer to Earth than it was during the 2017 solar eclipse, it will appear slightly larger, resulting in a prolonged period of totality and darkness, NASA points out. The 2017 event lasted around 2 minutes and 40 seconds, while the 2024 eclipse will result in a prolonged period of totality and darkness closer to 4 minutes depending on your location.

In Florida, were not in the path of totality, but we will certainly see a change if we view the sun safely, said MOSI educator Jose Cotayo. From our point of view in Tampa Bay, the moon will block more than 60% of the suns solar disc. Remember, its never safe to look directly at the sun  even during an eclipse  without appropriate safety gear.

Other viewing parties in the area include:

Safety Harbor Public Library: There will be a viewing party at Safety Harbor Waterfront Park from 1:30-4 p.m. The library will be passing out free eclipse glasses. 105 Veterans Memorial Lane, Safety Harbor.

Hillsborough County Public libraries: There are multiple libraries streaming the eclipse from NASA TV from 1-3:15 p.m. including John F. Germany Public Library, SouthShore Regional Library and Egypt Lake Partnership Library. In addition, library programs include:

The Burton Memorial Library is having a viewing party on its lawn and will be giving out glasses starting at 1 p.m. with a limit of two per family. 302 McLendon St., Plant City.

The Arthenia L. Joyner University Area Community Library will have a viewing party for kids where they can learn why solar eclipses occur and create a viewer from 2:15 to 4:15 p.m. Registration recommended. 13619 N. 22nd St., Tampa.

Seminole Community Library: Bring chairs, blankets and make a picnic to watch the eclipse behind the library at the St. Petersburg College Seminole Campus, 9200 113th St. N. One pair of eclipse glasses per person for ages 3 and up while supplies last.

Crescent Lake Park: Great Explorations Childrens Museum is hosting a Solar Eclipse Day in which they will explore outer space from inside the planetarium. They will first witness the eclipse in person across the street at Crescent Lake Park starting at 2:45 p.m. (weather permitting) and it is free to join them. Guests are encouraged to bring eye protection. They will return to the planetarium for a show. Admission is $12, $15 for age 1-17. 1925 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg.
Father and son pipers John and Jacob Millin honour their D-Day hero father and grandfather Bill Millin - ASADOUR GUZELIAN

The son of Bill Millin, the mad piper who played to Allied troops as they stormed the beaches of Normandy on D-Day, has commemorated his fathers heroism with a 10-day bagpipe salute in his memory.

Bill Millin was unarmed save for a sgian-dubh, a ceremonial dagger, in his stocking when he struck up with Hieland Laddie to fortify his fellow soldiers as they braved German fire on Sword Beach in 1944.

German snipers captured by the British later admitted they refused to shoot at the kilt-wearing Scotsman, believing he had gone mad in the heat of battle.

He survived the war and went on to retrain as a mental health nurse until his retirement in 1998.

Millin died in 2010 aged 88, survived by his son John Millin.

Ahead of the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, Mr Millin, 69, has honoured his fathers bravery by publicly piping Hieland Laddie and Road to the Isles every morning for 10 days in his home village of Rampton, Nottinghamshire.

His final performance will be on Thursday and will be continued by his son Jacob Millin, 41, in Sheringham, Norfolk, for the subsequent 10 days.

A painting of Bill Millin whose playing of the bagpipes during the Normandy landings boosted morale among the troops - GUZELIAN

Their commemoration forms part of the Pipers 80-Day Countdown, a series of bagpipe performances across the UK until June 6 organised by Bruno Peek, the former Royal Pageant Master.

Mr Millin, a former forensic psychiatrist with 30 years experience in the NHS, said: My only reason for playing would be in dads memory.

I am very proud of my fathers place in history. He played the pipes in remembrance of those who died in Normandy

I do not do weddings or funerals, it is just for the remembrance of my father.

Mr Millin added that he only started learning to play the bagpipes following his fathers death as he was put off by the level of publicity his father had attracted after the war.

His father had served as the personal piper to Simon Fraser, the 15th Lord Lovat, and had initially protested when ordered to play, citing wartime rules, which banned pipers from playing on the front line.

The moment Bill Millin, back to camera in foreground right, defied Army rules to play his bagpipes as he went shore at Sword beach during D-Day - IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM/GUZELIAN

Fraser is said to have replied Ah, but thats the English War Office. You and I are both Scottish, and that doesnt apply.

After Hieland Laddie, Fraser, the commander of 1st Special Service Brigade, raised his voice above the crackle of gunfire and the crump of mortar, and asked for another. Millin strode up and down the waters edge playing The Road to the Isles.

Veterans who served alongside Millin said he had provided a unique boost to morale

Tom Duncan said: It is hard to describe the impact it had. It gave us a great lift and increased our determination.

As well as the pride we felt, it reminded us of home and why we were there fighting for our lives and those of our loved ones.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte, who is paying a working visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 27, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday met with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte in Beijing.

Noting the Netherlands has become a veritable "gateway" for China-EU cooperation, Xi said China is ready to maintain exchanges at various levels with the Netherlands, adhere to communications and dialogue, and pursue mutual benefits and win-win results.

China is willing to expand imports of high-quality goods from the Netherlands and welcomes Dutch enterprises to invest in China, said Xi, adding it is hoped that the Dutch side will provide a fair and transparent business environment for Chinese enterprises.

Xi urged the two sides to promote traditional cooperation in such fields as agriculture, water conservancy and energy, and tap the potential of cooperation in artificial intelligence, green transformation and silver economy, among others.

He also expressed the hope that the two countries will continue to take more measures to facilitate personnel exchanges and encourage educational, cultural and sub-national exchanges.

China is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with the Netherlands in multilateral institutions such as the United Nations and the World Trade Organization to jointly address global challenges related to climate change and biodiversity, said the Chinese president.

Xi stressed that economic globalization may encounter headwinds, but the historical trend will not change. There is no way out for "decoupling and breaking the chain," and opening-up and cooperation are the only choice.

He said China always believes that the mindset of zero-sum game characterized by binary opposition has long been a thing of the past, and a genuinely secure world should be one featuring deep integration and interdependence. Creating scientific and technological barriers and severing industrial and supply chains will only lead to division and confrontation.

The Chinese people also have legitimate development rights, and no force can stop the pace of China's scientific and technological progress, said Xi, adding China will continue to pursue a win-win approach, open wider to the outside world at a high level, and share development dividends with all parties.

Xi said China maintains a continuous and stable policy towards Europe and regards Europe as an important pole and cooperative partner in a multipolar world. It is hoped that the Netherlands will continue to play a positive role in promoting mutual understanding and the development of constructive relations between China and Europe, he added.

Noting that bilateral cooperation between the Netherlands and China shows huge potential and prospect, Rutte said that "decoupling and breaking the chain" is not a policy choice of the Dutch government, since any act undermining China's development interests will only boomerang.

He said the Netherlands values friendly ties with China, adding that the country is willing to deepen its partnership with China, facilitate personnel exchanges, strengthen cooperation in such fields as economy, trade and carbon emission reduction, and enhance coordination at the G20 and other multilateral occasions, as well as on international and regional hotspot issues. 

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte, who is paying a working visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 27, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)
Malam Bacai Sanha Jr was an economic adviser to his father Malam Bacai Sanha (pictured), when he served as president [AFP]

The son of Guinea-Bissau's ex-president has been sentenced to over six years in prison by a US court for leading an international heroin trafficking ring.

Malam Bacai Sanha Jr, 52, planned to use the proceeds to fund his ambitions to become Guinea-Bissau's president through a coup, authorities say.

He is the son of Malam Bacai Sanha, who led the West African country from 2009 until his death in 2012.

Sanha Jr has been linked to a failed coup in February 2022.

He was extradited to the US in August 2022, following his arrest in Tanzania a few weeks earlier.

His trial began soon afterwards and in September last year, he pleaded guilty to conspiring to illegally import drugs.

"Malam Bacai Sanha Jr wasn't any ordinary international drug trafficker," said FBI agent Douglas Williams on Tuesday.

"He is the son of the former president of Guinea-Bissau and was trafficking drugs for a very specific reason - to fund a coup that would eventually lead him to the presidency of his native country where he planned to establish a drug regime."

Sanha Jr is accused of importing heroin from several countries to Portugal, and also from Europe to the United States.

US authorities say he could be deported following his imprisonment as he is not an American citizen.

The 52-year-old, known as "Bacaizinho" in Guinea-Bissau, has held several roles in the government, including as his father's economic adviser.

He reportedly revealed that he was "personally involved" in the foiled 2022 coup attempt to unseat President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, which left 11 people dead, most of them members of the security forces.

Sanha Jr allegedly told undercover agents of the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) that he used drug proceeds to fund the coup plotters, German state-owned broadcaster Deutsche Welle reported last year.

Guinea-Bissau is a notorious drug trafficking hub. It is a key conduit for cocaine from Latin America destined for Europe, which led to the US and the UN designating it a "narco-state" more than a decade ago.

Experts say that drug traffickers and networks are highly influential and well-entrenched in the country's government, often funding election campaigns for politicians they can rely on to protect the illegal trade.

More about Guinea-Bissau and the drugs trade:
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the ANC's achievements should not be forgotten [AFP]

South Africa is heading for a general election in late May, with some polls suggesting the governing African National Congress (ANC) could get less than 50% of the vote for the first time in 30 years.

Mounting criticism of the party that led the fight against apartheid under the late Nelson Mandela has chipped away at its support, raising the possibility of a coalition government.

When is South Africa's election?

On 29 May, nearly 28 million South African registered voters have the chance to elect representatives to the national and provincial parliaments.

It will be the country's seventh democratic general election.

They have taken place every five years since 1994, when white-minority rule ended and the ANC came to power.

What is at stake for the ANC and what are its policies?

The ANC, now led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, is under growing pressure.

Stubbornly high unemployment, which hit 32% last year, persistent economic inequalities, corruption allegations and frequent power cuts have reduced its popularity.

High levels of violent crime - on average 130 rapes and 80 murders a day in the last three months of 2023 - have also dented confidence in the authorities.

But the ANC says it is working to fix these problems.

And it is urging people not to throw away gains made since the end of apartheid. The party says poverty levels have fallen, a greater proportion of South Africans live in decent homes and access to healthcare has improved.

The ANC has promised to create millions more jobs over the next five years, to boost investment, support the private sector and end corruption.

What are the DA and EFF opposition parties offering?

The main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) says the "country is in crisis".

It wants to liberalise the economy, including a move towards greater privatisation.

It has pledged to create two million new jobs, end power cuts and "halve the rate of violent crime".

The DA says it can save South Africa [EPA]

To address unemployment and inequality, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) - the third largest party in parliament - has radical economic solutions.

The party argues that the ANC has not redressed the racial economic imbalances of apartheid. It plans to redistribute land to the less well off.

The EFF also wants to nationalise mines, banks and other key parts of the economy, arguing that the wealth of the country would then be used to benefit the majority of the population.

What about Jacob Zuma

Disgruntled former President Jacob Zuma - who was ousted by Mr Ramaphosa amid corruption allegations that he denies and later jailed for defying a court order - has thrown his considerable political weight behind a fresh rival to the ANC.

Ex-President Jacob Zuma has been campaigning for the MK party [Reuters]

The uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, which has taken its name from the ANC's former armed wing, adds further unpredictability to the race. It could make a strong showing in Mr Zuma's home province of KwaZulu-Natal.

In a brief manifesto it pledges to transform South Africa, including an aim to create five million jobs.

Who could be South Africa's next president?

South Africans do not vote for a president.

Instead they elect the 400 members of the National Assembly, who go on to vote for a new head of state within 30 days of the general election.

The EFF says that greater state control of the economy will create a fairer society [Getty Images]

As a result, there are no presidential candidates as such, but each party leader fronts their national campaign and their portrait will appear on the ballot paper.

The ANC's President Ramaphosa, the DA's John Steenhuisen and the EFF's Julius Malema will all feature prominently.

The leader of whichever party can muster a majority in the National Assembly after the election would be expected to become the next president.

How does the election work?

The proportion of seats that parties are allocated in the 400-member National Assembly is directly related to their share of the vote.

In 2024, independent candidates will be included for the first time.

This means that South Africans will cast three votes:

National parliament: One for 200 of the seats with just political parties named on the ballot National parliament: One for the remaining 200 seats with a different ballot paper for each of the nine provinces, listing the parties in that region and independent candidates Provincial assembly: One for the independent candidates or parties in the regional legislature.

How would a coalition be formed in South Africa?

The constitution does not spell out how a coalition could be formed.

But assuming the ANC remains the largest party, smaller groupings could informally agree to support an ANC government on a vote-by-vote basis in return for some concessions.

Or, at the other end of possibilities, the ANC could enter a formal coalition with some parties, including a written agreement outlining legislative plans and the distribution of cabinet posts.

Any other party would face the same choices.

But there is also a possibility of an opposition coalition.

In a pre-election deal, a group of parties - led by the DA - has signed up to what has been called the Multi-Party Charter for South Africa. If together they get more than 50% of the seats, they have already agreed to form a coalition. The agreement does not include the EFF.

More South Africa stories from the BBC:
(Bloomberg) -- South African lawmakers on Wednesday backed a bill reforming the countrys pension laws to allow members to withdraw as much as a third of their savings before retirement.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Pension Funds Amendment Bill will, from September, require that funds are divided into three components or pots, split between savings, retirement and a vested portion. It will also allow members to transfer or withdraw savings in the event they change or lose their job. Fund members can chose if they want to opt into the new system.

In times of dire financial distress, members of pension or provident funds tend to terminate their employment in order to access their retirement savings, Deputy Finance Minister David Masondo told lawmakers in Cape Town.

He cautioned that the withdrawal of retirement savings would be subject to tax.

The bill, which was supported by all political parties, will now go to Parliaments second house, the National Council Of Provinces, for consideration. If they back it, the bill will proceed to President Cyril Ramaphosa to be signed into law.

The industry is preparing for the Sept. 1 start to implement the law, Old Mutual Ltd. Chief Executive Officer Iain Williamson said. However, lack of clarity on the tax treatment for withdrawals and delays in the resolution of conflict with other laws could hamper the rollout of the initiative by the deadline.

I do think there is a risk that its going to be challenging on the parliamentary agenda to process everything it needs to process in time or for September, Williamson said in an interview Wednesday. From an operational implementation perspective, we dont have that clarity yet.

(Updates with comment from Old Mutual CEO in sixth paragraph.)

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HARTSVILLE, SC (WBTW)  A months-long investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division into allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct by a former Hartsville police sergeant, who was the focus of a News13 investigative series, has concluded.

The South Carolina Attorney Generals Office said there is insufficient evidence to merit criminal prosecution against Mark Campbell following the SLED investigation. SLED noted in its investigative report that many of the women, who were allegedly victims of sexual harassment during their time working with Campbell at the Hartsville Police Department, declined to provide statements to the agency.

HOW WE GOT TO THIS POINT

News13s investigative series into Campbell began in November 2022 when Campbell was initially named Darlingtons police chief but then backed out just days after News13 reported about his previous firing from the Darlington County Sheriffs Office.

Former Hartsville PD Sgt. Mark Campbell (Courtesy: Darlington County Sheriffs Office)

After that, News13 uncovered multiple Internal Affairs investigations into Campbell while he worked with the Hartsville Police Department from April 2019 to Nov. 2020. Those included substantiated violations of department policies like sexual misconduct. Campbell was also accused of sexual harassment against many female Hartsville police officers. Campbell quit before he was set to be fired.

After News13 uncovered these investigations in early 2023, Campbell, then a captain in the sheriffs office, was fired in March 2023 and Sheriff James Hudson asked SLED to investigate Campbell and another member of his command staff. Hudson previously told News13 that he was unaware of past incidents involving Campbell when he hired him in January 2021.

SLED INVESTIGATION WRAPS, AGS OFFICE ANNOUNCES DECISION

SLEDs 17-page investigative report, conducted by Special Agent Justin Cutchin, said the investigation was aimed at looking into allegations of sexual harassment and official misconduct by Campbell. The report mentions News13s stories from January to March 2023.

Much of the investigative report highlights previously reported incidents of alleged sexual misconduct or harassment by Campbell toward female police officers or others in the community. It also describes SLEDs efforts to speak with many of the officers who previously reported Campbells actions to supervisors during Hartsvilles initial Internal Affairs investigations, as well as Campbell himself.

Below is a timeline of the SLED investigation. The pages provided to News13 were heavily redacted to protect the identity of potential victims.

JUNE 6, 2023

A woman who was a Hartsville police officer during Campbells tenure and previously told a supervisor that Campbell often hugged and kissed her but didnt feel that Campbell touched her inappropriately, declined to give a statement to SLED and said she did not feel she would be of any help.

A woman who was a Hartsville police officer during Campbells tenure and previously told a supervisor that Campbell hugged and kissed her on several occasions, declined to give a statement to SLED and said she was still friends with Campbell and spoke to him on a regular basis.

A woman who was a Hartsville police officer during Campbells tenure, and who previously reported always feeling uncomfortable around Campbell and that he hugged and kissed her on several occasions, was hesitant to give a statement to SLED, and after telling SLED multiple times that she needed more time to consider doing an interview, she eventually stopped communicating. Special Agent Cutchin tried between June 6 and 12 to schedule an interview with her.

A woman who was a Hartsville police officer during Campbells tenure, and who previously said he pressed his body onto hers while the two were inside a patrol vehicle before telling her not to tell her boyfriend, declined to give a statement to SLED and said she did not feel she would be of any help.

A woman who was a Hartsville police officer during Campbells tenure, and who previously reported Campbell coming up behind her and smelling the top of her head, declined to give a statement to SLED.

JUNE 7

SLED spoke to a female Walmart employee, who Campbell allegedly had text conversations with that were sexual in nature and who Campbell allegedly requested he perform a sex act on. She declined to give a statement and said she did not have any problems with Campbell.

Previously reported text messages, obtained through a News13 FOIA request, allegedly sent by Mark Campbell to a Hartsville Walmart employee in 2020

JUNE 8

A woman who was a Hartsville police officer during Campbells tenure, and who previously said Campbell hugged and kissed her on several occasions, declined to give a statement to SLED and said she would not remember much about an incident that had occurred between them three years prior.

A resident who previously reported that Campbell turned off his body cam video prior to putting his hand on her arm during a traffic stop declined to give a statement to SLED.

JUNE 12

Special Agent Cutchin provided his contact information to a Hartsville police supervisor to give to a Hartsville police employee, but Cutchin was never contacted by the employee.

JUNE 19

A woman who was a member of the Darlington County Sheriffs Office during Campbells tenure but who previously told Hartsville police that Campbells hugs were not inappropriate, told SLED that she did not feel she had any information that would be beneficial to the investigation.

JUNE 26

Campbell was interviewed at the SLED Pee Dee Region office in Florence and provided a voluntary statement, which was recorded. Campbell said he absolutely did not sexually harass female, and that he doesnt operate like that. He said during his time with Hartsville, no females at the department told him he made them feel uncomfortable. He said his interactions with females at Hartsville were normal and were not sexual or malicious in any way. When asked about a text he allegedly sent to a woman that said, let me come by your house and taste you? Campbell said he did not send that text When asked if he sent text messages that were sexual in nature to a Walmart employee, he told SLED agents that he did not have any contact with her after the initial contact at Walmart and did not send any text messages after that day, according to SLEDs report Campbell claimed that then-Hartsville police Lt. Michael Weatherford possibly spoofed his [Campbells] cellphone number to send those texts, though Campbell admitted that he did not have any proof, according to SLEDs report News13 contacted Weatherford Tuesday, who wrote in a statement about Campbell, He is a known liar who will say anything to make himself look good and to protect himself at all costs. Its no shock he would deny any accountability and try to lie yet again. When asked what he thought his relationship was like with female officers at Hartsville, Campbell said he thought the police department was a family and he treated them like one of the guys. Campbell said he did nothing sexual and that he joked around with females, the report says When asked about a situation on the firing range when he allegedly came up behind a female officer, bear-hugged her and pushed his groin against her backside, Campbell said he was a firearms instructor and would not play around on the range. Campbell told SLED agents that he didnt remember that incident occurring Campbell was asked about the situation in which he and a female officer were inside a patrol vehicle and Campbell allegedly pressed his body onto hers and then said, Dont tell your boyfriend because this might **** him off. I dont want him to come kick my butt or fight me. Campbell said he did not remember that incident Campbell was asked about multiple officers reporting that he gave them side hugs and kisses on the forehead and cheek. He said he never did anything sexually or maliciously to any females. Campbell told SLED agents that if the sexual harassment behavior was true, it would have manifested itself during his two years with the Darlington County Sheriffs Office from 2021 to 2023, during which time he taught female self-defense classes to the public. Campbell said there was never one complaint about him during his two years with the sheriffs office.



SLEDs investigation included News13s web articles, Internal Affairs investigation documents from Hartsville, numerous Hartsville police interviews, texts from Campbell, a recorded interview with Campbell, South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy records, body cam recordings from Hartsville police, Walmart surveillance footage, Campbells resume and other items.

SLEDs investigative report is dated Aug. 7, 2023. The South Carolina Attorney Generals Office sent its decision letter to SLED on Nov. 28 following a review of the investigation. The letter signed by Senior Assistant Deputy Attorney General Heather S. Weiss said the Attorney Generals Office had concluded there was insufficient evidence to merit criminal prosecution. Therefore, the Attorney Generals Offices file was closed.

In mid-November, News13 was told by SLED that the case was still under investigation. On Jan. 3, News13 asked SLED for an update, but SLED did not immediately respond. On Jan. 25, SLED told News13 that the investigation was closed. News13 filed a FOIA request that day for documents related to the investigation. On March 8, SLED requested an extension for its final response. We received the investigative documents from SLED on Monday night.

On Tuesday, News13 contacted the Darlington County Sheriffs Office to ask if it had been provided an update about the SLED investigation into Campbell. The agency said it had received SLEDs investigative report but not the Attorney Generals Office letter. The sheriffs office said because Campbell is no longer employed there that it would be inappropriate to make any further comments about him.

******

CAMPBELL REACTS TO SLED INVESTIGATION

News13 talked to Campbell over the phone on Tuesday. He said he was relieved that the case was over and that there was nothing there to begin with.

When asked if he now regrets what he previously referred to as joking around with female police officers while with Hartsville, he said there was nothing inappropriate and his conversations were just general office banter.

Campbell said he still thinks that then-Hartsville police Lt. Weatherford spoofed his cellphone number in order to send inappropriate texts to make it look like they came from Campbell. Campbell said Weatherford has caused a lot of problems across the board.

When asked about the fact that a number of female police officers declined to provide a statement to SLED for their investigation, Campbell told News13 that it speaks volumes and that if there had been any problems, they would have spoken out about it.

Campbell said he can move on with his life now. When asked if he plans to become a law enforcement officer again, Campbell said it might be an option at some point and that he would love to potentially serve the community in Darlington County again in some capacity.

News13 has also checked back on the results of the SLED investigation involving Curtis Bryant of the Darlington County Sheriffs Office. He was previously listed as a captain and the agencys patrol commander. Hes no longer listed as a captain on the agencys command staff listing. Count on News13 for updates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
South Carolina Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter, D-Orangeburg, right, asks a question of Rep. Jay West, R-Belton, center, during a debate over an energy bill, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Collins)

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  A wide-ranging bill backers say will ensure South Carolina has plenty of electric power passed a key vote Wednesday in the House, but opponents complained it would roll back billions of dollars in lessons learned after a proposed nuclear plant never generated a watt of power.

The 88-21 vote was almost all along party lines. The bill faces one more routine vote before heading to the Senate. That chamber's leadership supports the idea of assuring future energy flows but is much more skeptical of removing oversight seven years after ratepayers lost billions when a pair of utilities were paid to build two nuclear reactors before they ever started working.

The short term goal for supporters of the bill is to make sure private Dominion Energy and state-owned utility Santee Cooper can build a natural-gas fired power plant in the Lowcountry. It allows faster approval of gas pipelines needed for the project.

Those efforts got more urgent after an unusual cold snap on Christmas Eve in 2022 nearly tapped out the power grid and could have led to rolling blackouts.

The truth is the enviros lost, said Republican Rep. Jay West, who has led the bill through the House. And they are trying to hold our energy security hostage.

The long term goal is to make sure a state that grew by more than 30% in the past two decades  adding more than 1.4 million people  can keep the lights on in houses and big manufacturers and data farms humming without having to buy power from out of state or depending too much on solar or other greener energy solutions that backers of the bill said are currently unreliable.

Environmental groups said the bill points South Carolina toward energy production for decades through items like natural gas that may soon be surpassed by technological advances. They said it also relies on smaller nuclear plants that are not feasible now.

The Southern Environmental Law Center called it a wish list for the utility industry.

That thought causes some to pause. Nearly 20 years ago, South Carolina overhauled the way regulators look at utilities, allowing them recover costs of building two nuclear reactors at the V.C. Summer plant near Columbia before the work was done.

When construction fell behind, executives of South Carolina Electric & Gas  later bought by Dominion as it faced possible bankruptcy  lied about the progress to keep the money coming. Several were convicted of crimes after the project failed in 2017.

The Senate will carefully consider the bill, especially since it involves both Dominion and Santee Cooper. The bill has to pass that chamber before the session ends in six weeks to have a chance to become law.

It deserves extra scrutiny. They both deserve that," Republican Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said.

The only major sticking point in the House debate Wednesday was part of the bill which reduces the number of regulators on the Public Service Commission from seven to three.

West said reducing the number of commissioners means they can choose the most qualified from a statewide pool and pay them more.

Democratic House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford said reducing the number of commissioners and abandoning choosing who served by congressional districts for geographic diversity means lawmakers and citizens will have less power over the board.

Just put one person in charge and they can tell us all what we are going to pay for electric rates, Rutherford said.

The bill also would allow utilities to directly appeal denials of their proposals before regulators to the state Supreme Court and give their testimony more weight than others in disputes before the commission.
Sgt Ben Cooke denied the charges during a 10-minute hearing at Cardiff Crown Court

A police sergeant has denied burglary, stealing a safe containing 16,000 and the misuse of police computers.

Sgt Ben Cooke, 34, from Rhondda Cynon Taf, is accused of breaking into a house in Bridgend county on 7 February.

He is also accused of misconduct in public office by making unauthorised searches of police systems between 3-9 February.

He is further accused of securing unauthorised access to data held in a computer, between the same dates.

Appearing before Cardiff Crown Court on Wednesday, Sgt Cooke denied all three charges.

He was remanded in custody and a trial date was set for 12 August.
As the Space Force looks to improve its live testing and training capabilities, the service is considering upgrading existing satellites with more robust sensors to support that mission.

Through a partnership with the Pentagons Test Resource Management Center and the Defense Innovation Unit, Space Training and Readiness Command, or STARCOM, plans to install new space domain awareness sensors on satellites in orbit as soon as 2025.

Those sensors, designed to provide real-time information on the space environment, could help STARCOM create a secure environment to test space capabilities in orbit and train operators on live spacecraft.

The race is on to get resilient capabilities into space ahead of emerging threats, Space Force spokesperson Lt. Col. Meghan Liemburg-Archer told C4ISRNET in a March 25 statement. This capability could enable a more robust on-demand test and training architecture.

STARCOMs plan for a live testing and training capability is just one piece of the Space Forces broader Operational Test and Training Infrastructure, which includes a mix of simulated and in-orbit capabilities designed to train guardians and make sure satellites and ground systems work as designed.

The services fiscal 2025 budget request includes $196 million in research and development funding to establish a National Space Test and Training Complex, or NSTTC  a significant jump from the $21.8 million it asked for in FY24.

As for the upgrade mission, details on its potential scope are slim, and Liemburg-Archer said the service is still determining how many sensors it will buy and which satellites it will install them on.

Katalyst Space Technologies, an Arizona-based startup, is providing its SIGHT sensor for the effort as well as its Retrofit Attachment System, which allows it to install a sensor to a satellite in orbit. SIGHT was designed to track debris and other space objects, including active satellites.

DIU awarded Katalyst a $4.5 million contract in January, the funds for which were provided by the Test Resource Management Center, which is also interested in better understanding how satellites could be used to support testing in multiple environments  including for hypersonic systems.

Ghonhee Lee, the companys CEO, told C4ISRNET the initial contract was for the first ground test unit, which will complete testing this summer. The firm is awaiting additional funding to begin building the flight unit, he said, noting that the prolonged fiscal 2024 appropriations process slowed down that effort.

For the installation itself, the Space Force is working with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, which runs a program with the Naval Research Laboratory called Robotic Servicing of Geosynchronous Satellites, or RSGS, that aims to demonstrate the ability to inspect and service satellites using a mechanical arm.

Space Logistics  a subsidiary of Northrop Grumman  will fly the RSGS payload, which is set to launch in early 2025.

Lee said Katalyst will work with DARPA and Space Logistics to coordinate and rehearse the installation process and then Katalysts analytics software will be sent to government operations centers to support the mission.

The Space Force declined to comment on the timeline, saying information about the schedule is restricted and the mission has technical challenges that need to be resolved. Lee noted that the timing is tight and largely dependent on continued funding, including money in the fiscal 2025 budget request meant to support the mission.

Along with schedule pressure, Lee said hes concerned the effort could end up being a one-off demo rather than an expanded program to provide STARCOM with in-orbit training capability.

Theres a major risk that this basically ends up kind of in like its own little corner and doesnt actually make it into the broader Space Force acquisition strategy and capability roadmap, he said.

That roadmap will drive future investment in space mobility and logistics capabilities and is still in development as the service determines what utility these systems may have for future operations. The Space Force has refueling demonstrations planned in the next few years, requesting about $14 million for those efforts in fiscal 2025, but hasnt settled on a longer term strategy.

Lee said Katalysts hope is that the need for sensors to support STARCOM and the NSTTC will drive the service to consider how in-orbit repair and upgrade capabilities could bring value. If the mission is successful, he said, it could help make that case and perhaps lead to opportunities for other applications.

He added that Katalyst is in discussion with Space Systems Command  the Space Forces acquisition arm  and the Commercial Services Office about how to scale the technology through other program offices.

I think itll actually increase the adoption of the capability in SSC and the operations community at large, Lee said. The Space Force has already done it through the NSTTC, so then theres already a playbook.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) It was a dream for the future. Almost 20 years ago, the idea of a Spaceport in New Mexico was born. Detractors say it hasnt lived up to the promises. While Spaceport America said there is a lot of work being done that many people dont see, the facility just released a 10-year plan that could mark a new direction for what they are calling Space Valley.

Story continues below

Spaceport America is situated just under three hours south of Albuquerque, boasting a 12,000-foot runway, and an 18,000-acre campus. There are other parts of the country that have deep aerospace development activities and companies, but the one thing they cant do is they cant go to space from that location, said Scott McLaughlin, executive director of Spaceport America.

In late 2005, Sir Richard Branson and then-Governor Bill Richardson announced that Virgin Galactic would headquarters a new operation in New Mexicos Sierra County. While Spaceport America didnt officially open until 2011, anticipation for the facility was huge.

Spaceport America is the first purpose-built commercial Spaceport facility in the United States. Its just one of two FAA license facilities for both vertical and horizontal launches.

Construction on the Spaceport used more than $218 million in public funds with another $76 million coming from taxes in Dona Ana County and Sierra County. Hopes were high in the mid-2000s that the Spaceport would bring thousands of tourists and millions of dollars to the Land of Enchantment.

However, some critics in Sierra County feel that the promise of prosperity has yet to be fulfilled. Many in Spaceport Americas Sierra County say they havent seen a return on the investment made nearly two decades ago.

Nobody can build a spaceport just out of the blue. The federal government built the spaceports of Florida and Vandenberg in Virginia, so New Mexico took it upon themselves to build a spaceport with our initial primary customer, Virgin Galactic. But we are building a bridge to space where youre building a harbor, a place where people can come and launch, said McLaughlin.

Branson himself flew to the edge of space in July of 2021 with Virgin Galactics first trip with paying tourists flying just two years later. In November of 2023, the company announced that they would be suspending flights focused on the development of their next-gen, delta-class spacecraft set to debut in 2026. They also laid off more than 70 employees in New Mexico.

McLaughlin also pointed out that while Virgin Galactic laid off 73 workers, they still have roughly 200 New Mexicans still employed with the aerospace company. According to an economic impact study conducted by the Arrowhead Center at the New Mexico State Univerity, Spaceport America brought in more than $60 million of new money in 2022 alone with an average of just under 3,400 visitors per month.

Now the facility is working on a new master plan that will hopefully bring new tenants residing alongside current companies like Virgin Galactic, Spin Launch, Aerovironment, and Prismatic. Spaceport has also signed a memo of understanding with Borderplex Alliance, an organization focused on growing manufacturing in the southern New Mexico region. McLaughlin, a native New Mexican, said hes excited to be part of a growing network of space agencies forming what is collectively known as Space Valley. This area between Los Alamos and El Paso, a mecca of high tech, aerospace, and aviation. And guess what? You can go to space, you can go to orbit, you can go sub-orbit. It can be really transformational for New Mexico, said McLaughlin.

While Virgin Galactic hunkers down to develop the next generation of spacecraft, and Spaceport works to develop more tenants and programming for locals, McLaughlin stresses that fact that the mission of Spaceport America is far from complete. He said ti will take time to optimize the value stakeholders believe is held in this striking facility that calls New Mexico home.

About New Mexico Frontiers

New Mexico is the doorway to the new frontier  leading the way into the future of Aerospace, Bio-science, Renewable Energy, Digital Media and Film, Advanced Manufacturing, and so much more. Join us as Chad Brummett and New Mexico Frontiers profile the movers and shakers from our state who are changing the world.

New Mexico Frontiers celebrates the enterprising spirit of the states businesses, scientists, creators, and entrepreneurs.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
SCOTTSBORO, Ala. (WHNT)  The Scottsboro Police Department (SPD), says that a call they received about a car burglary led to multiple people being arrested.

According to SPD, officers received a call about a male trying to break into a vehicle at the 800 block of Snodgrass Road in Scottsboro on Monday. Upon arrival, officers noticed a white Kia SUV leaving the parking lot with no headlights on.

93 years: Remembering the Scottsboro Boys arrests and trial

After officers turned on their emergency lights for the white Kia, two silver Kia SUVs left the scene which led to a chase. SPD says that all three vehicles fled on US-72 eastbound.

Officers say that the white Kia SUV turned onto Willow Street and headed westbound, while the

other two continued on US-72 East. The driver of the white Kia exited the roadway on Cedar Hill Drive, damaging a private fence, and became stuck in a nearby field.

The driver of the white Kia, a juvenile was later located on foot and taken to the Coosa Valley Detention Center.

One of the two silver Kia SUVs crashed into a vehicle. The driver then exited the vehicle and tried to run away but was later caught and arrested. The driver of that vehicle was identified as 18-year-old Marquisean Slaughter, of Chatanooga, Tenn.

Slaughter was charged with:

receiving stolen property (1st degree)

theft of property (1st degree)

attempting to elude a police officer

reckless endangerment

According to SPD, the remaining Kia drove over state lines into Tennesee where the driver eventually crashed the vehicle. After crashing, two people in the car ran away on foot. One of the two people was arrested by the South Pittsburg, Tennessee Police Department.

Vehicle leaves roadway during police chase in Scottsboro, multiple injured

Another individual who has been identified as 18-year-old Christian Walker, of Waynesboro, Tenn was also arrested by the Marion County Sheriffs Office (TN).

Additional charges are expected. All three of the Kia SUVs were reported stolen.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The spirit of Halloween is coming early!

Spirit Halloween made their annual visit to Providence Childrens Hospital to present a $141,000 donation check to the hospitals Child Life program.

Providences Child of Life program aims to help provide funding for art and music therapy programs to make hospital stays for children more entertaining and fun, according to Providence.

The Halloween retailers fundraising program, Spirit of Children, makes sure that 100% of their funds go directly local hospitals, according to the press release from Providence.

Since 2009, Spirit Halloween has donated over $1 million to the Child Life Program, according to Providence.

We are so incredibly grateful to Spirit Halloween and their entire team for their support and generosity year after year. We see firsthand the impact these funds help make in the lives of our patients and their families and it truly brings so much happiness  we appreciate their partnership and the difference they make in our hospital and our community, said Rob Anderson, CEO for the Hospital of Providence Memorial Campus and Providence Childrens Hospital.

Additionally, Spirit Halloween also hosts an annual Halloween celebration at Providence Childrens Hospital, bringing costumes and fun for all patients to experience, not missing out on the spooky fun.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
A modified version of a Long March-6 rocket carrying the Yunhai-3 02 satellite lifts off from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in north China's Shanxi Province, March 27, 2024. The satellite has entered the preset orbit and will be used for atmospheric and marine environment surveys, space environment monitoring, disaster prevention and reduction, and scientific experiments. (Photo by Zheng Bin/Xinhua)

TAIYUAN, March 27 (Xinhua) -- China launched a new satellite from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in its northern Shanxi Province on Wednesday morning.

A modified version of a Long March-6 rocket carrying the Yunhai-3 02 satellite lifted off at 6:51 a.m. (Beijing Time).

The satellite has entered the preset orbit and will be used for atmospheric and marine environment surveys, space environment monitoring, disaster prevention and reduction, and scientific experiments.

The launch was the 514th mission of the Long March series carrier rockets. 

A modified version of a Long March-6 rocket carrying the Yunhai-3 02 satellite lifts off from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in north China's Shanxi Province, March 27, 2024. The satellite has entered the preset orbit and will be used for atmospheric and marine environment surveys, space environment monitoring, disaster prevention and reduction, and scientific experiments. (Photo by Zheng Bin/Xinhua)

A modified version of a Long March-6 rocket carrying the Yunhai-3 02 satellite lifts off from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in north China's Shanxi Province, March 27, 2024. The satellite has entered the preset orbit and will be used for atmospheric and marine environment surveys, space environment monitoring, disaster prevention and reduction, and scientific experiments. (Photo by Zheng Bin/Xinhua)
A popular market and music event needs sponsors if it is to continue in its current form, a cash-strapped council has warned.

Middlesbrough's Orange Pip Market is expected to run at a loss of about 1,300 for each event.

The event, which takes place the last Saturday of every month, includes food and drink stalls, family friendly activities and live music.

Deputy mayor Philippa Storey said the local authority would consider reducing its size if a sponsor could not be found, and appealed to the business community.

"Due to the financial situation at the council we had to prioritise it now if we want Orange Pip to continue, which obviously we do," she said.

"If we can make [it] self-sustaining then obviously its got a solid future and we know we can take it forward."

Financial woes

It is estimated the Orange Pip Market brings in about 1m to the local economy and supports more than 100 businesses, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Ms Storey said the Labour-led council would consider ways to cut the market's costs if a sponsor could not be found, such as making it smaller or holding the event in Centre Square.

The councils money woes led to an approach to government for exceptional financial support, which allowed it to borrow 13.4m.

Proposed savings as part of a "transformation programme" total 13.9m in 2024/25 rising to 21m by 2026/27, while other measures include a maximum council tax hike, fortnightly waste collections and a 40 annual charge for green waste collection.

Follow BBC Tees on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.

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A woman cheers after a musical performance by Springfield Symphony Orchestra cellist Emilia Stauffer during Springfield's first public Trans Day of Visibility event in 2022. TDOV was first established in 2009 by Rachel Crandall-Crocker of Michigan.

A Springfield organization committed to strengthening the city's trans community is preparing for a weekend full of educational and celebratory events.

The Springfield Transgender and Ally Resource Team, or S.T.A.R.T., is hosting three different events over the weekend for Transgender Day of Visibility, which is Sunday, starting with an education panel and "Human Library" on Friday.

Both programs will be held at the Drew Lewis Foundation at the Fairbanks from 4-6 p.m. Friday. The panel will feature trans advocates, leaders and allies who will present unique perspectives and information about the community. The Human Library will allow attendees to "borrow" volunteers for one-on-one discussions about their experiences.

S.T.A.R.T. will then host a Trans Day of Visibility Cultural Event between noon and 4 p.m. Saturday at the Fairbanks. The event will feature performers and speakers, vendor booths and free gender-affirming services like haircuts.

The weekend will round out with a scavenger and egg hunt Sunday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at The GLO Center. Prizes will be available.

What is Transgender Day of Visibility?

Event volunteers laugh with attendees during the 2022 Trans Day of Visibility event at National Avenue Christian Church.

International Transgender Day of Visibility, also referred to as TDOV, is celebrated annually on March 31. TDOV is dedicated to celebrating the lives of transgender individuals, while also bringing attention to the challenges the community faces.

TDOV was established in 2010 by trans advocate Rachel Crandall, head of Transgender Michigan, an organization that supports members of Michigan's trans community. According to GLAAD, Crandall established TDOV because she was frustrated with the media's sole coverage of the violence the community was facing. She wanted to create a day that refocused the general public's idea of trans individuals, empowering them to live authentically.

Greta Cross is the trending topics reporter for the Springfield News-Leader. Follow her on X and Instagram @gretacrossphoto. Story idea? Email her at gcross@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Springfield organization prepares to celebrate Trans Day of Visibility
ST. GEORGE, Utah (ABC4)  St. George Police are seeking help in the investigation of a Nevada middle school counselor who was arrested in Utah on suspicion of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor.

David Scott Curtis, 54, was arrested in Mesquite, Nev. last month on a warrant issued by the St. George Police Department after they said they received a victim report of alleged sexual abuse.

The abuse allegations were for a crime committed approximately 10 years ago in Utah, according to police.

Curtis is a middle school counselor at Hughes Middle School in Mesquite. The Mesquite Police Department said it is not aware of any abuse committed at the middle school or in the state of Nevada.

This is an active and ongoing investigation. We are asking that anyone who is a witness to this crime or a victim of David Curtis to please contact Detective Z. Bate at either 435-627-4319 or zackary.bate@sgcity.org, St. George police said in a press release.

Those in Nevada with information can also contact Mesquite Police Detective Justin Cheney at (702) 346-6911.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
DE PERE  Over 70 St. Norbert College students staged a walkout Wednesday to protest recent cuts and layoffs, gathering outside the college's Main Hall and president's office chanting "Students united, we'll never be divided."

The college announced 41 layoffs last fall,. Spokesperson Mike Counter later said that number was actually 35 positions.

Earlier in March, another 12 non-tenured faculty were cut. At the same time, St. Norbert announced cuts to retiree health benefits and changes to academic programs. The college is examining which programs to invest in and which to cut, while adding offerings like engineering and physics.

The cuts come as the college looks to shore up a structural deficit. Combined, the fiscal year 2024 and 2025 deficits total about $9.2 million, according to Michael Marsden, the interim vice president for academic affairs.

Students call for better transparency from St. Norbert College leaders

Students at Wednesday's protest called for student and faculty input in decisions and greater transparency from the college's leadership.

Lucia Sanchez, a senior at the college, said decisions were made without taking students into consideration. They were protesting because they care about the college.

"Essentially, we want to come out here as a reaction to the decisions that have been made as a way to show that we care, to stand in solidarity with the professors that can no longer say something," Sanchez said.

St. Norbert College junior Brooklyn Filtzkowski addresses fellow protestors Wednesday at the college. Students turned out to protest recently announced layoffs at the school.

Junior Brooklyn Filtzkowski said she's considered transferring because of the lack of communication.

"Communication has never been proactive. It's only been reactive thus far by the college," she said.

At the walkout, students wrote to college leadership detailing how the recent cuts have affected them, leaving their notes in a box outside the Main Hall.

The college held a student town hall meeting Tuesday for two hours to answer questions about the recent cuts. About 250 students attended. Filtzkowski said that some financial questions were answered, but it felt like it was for show.

"It definitely, from a student perspective, feels like an aspect of show only because the only town halls that have been called have been in response to student dissent," she said. "They've never been an actual effort to proactively be transparent with students."

Filtzkowski said she's concerned about the consequences of speaking out.

Students gather in front of Main Hall at St. Norbert College in De Pere on Wednesday. They were protesting recently announced layoffs at the college.

"I've been very, very worried about retribution," she said. "... I am worried about facing consequences for (taking) action."

Earl D'Souza, a sophomore, said he understands why the college is making cuts but transparency is the primary issue.

"I felt the need to stand with the student body and expressing our need for greater transparency from the administration and our demand for the culture of this college to change to be more in line with the value of communio," he said.

Communio, Latin for communion, is a key pillar of the college's mission: community living grounded in personal growth, according to St. Nobert's website.

D'Souza was affected by the cuts last fall when the director of multicultural student services, Bridgit Martin, was laid off.

Students gather in front of Main Hall at St. Norbert College on Wednesday to protest recently announced layoffs of college faculty.

"Cutting her has sort of made students of diversity feel like they've been put on the back burner in favor of more important endeavors," he said.

Students also said professor Jaime Edwards was recently placed on leave without explanation. Some held signs asking where he is. Filtzkowski and D'Souza suspect he was placed on leave because of his candor about the college's cuts.

Counter said the college won't discuss personnel matters in regards to Edwards' departure. The Press-Gazette's email to Edwards bounced back, suggesting his college email has been deactivated. The phone number listed on his faculty page does not go to his voicemail.

Filtzkowski and D'Souza both had classes with Edwards and were left in the dark about his sudden departure.

"His getting cut has made it feel like my education currently is being very negatively impacted," D'Souza said.

A suggestion form collection box is seen on the steps of Main Hall on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wis. Students were out to protest recently announced layoffs for St. Norbert faculty.

Vice president for student affairs says cuts are necessary

At the same time as the walkout, St. Nobert's vice president for student affairs, Joseph Webb, spoke with the press, saying the cuts are difficult but necessary.

"These decisions are challenging, are difficult, but they're necessary to ensure we're rightsizing the institution based on the declining student enrollment," he said.

The full-time student base has hovered between 2,300 and 1,900 over the past 15 years. But in 2022, enrollment dipped to 1,775 students and again this year to 1,750 students.

Webb said there isn't an exact number of how many faculty and staff need to be cut to be in line with a shrinking student population.

St. Norbert student Lauren Weigel, right, puts a suggestion form into a collection box during a protest on Wednesday at the college.

While cuts are affecting student relationships with leaving staff and faculty, Webb said the quality of education, programs, activities and services will remain unchanged.

Tuesday's town hall was to hear from students and let them know administrators are there for students, he said.

When asked if student input was considered before cuts were announced, Webb said those decisions were "high level."

"We've consulted with various campus constituent groups who are a part of this process," he said. "We even worked with third-party consultants in terms of collecting the appropriate institutional data to make data-informed decisions around these cuts."

Danielle DuClos is a Report for America corps member who covers K-12 education for the Green Bay Press-Gazette. Contact her at dduclos@gannett.com. Follow on Twitter @danielle_duclos. You can directly support her work with a tax-deductible donation at GreenBayPressGazette.com/RFA or by check made out to The GroundTruth Project with subject line Report for America Green Bay Press Gazette Campaign. Address: The GroundTruth Project, Lockbox Services, 9450 SW Gemini Drive, PMB 46837, Beaverton, Oregon 97008-7105.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: St. Norbert College students stage walkout, protesting recent cuts
BOAO, Hainan, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Participants at the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2024 have called on countries to uphold trade multilateralism and oppose protectionism.

In recent years, globalization and trade multilateralism have faced some headwinds due to slowing economies and domestic politics in some countries, giving rise to trade protectionism that threatens the role of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

"The WTO has been marginalized, and I think the most urgent task today is how countries can work together to strengthen the function of the WTO and carry out some necessary reforms," said Long Yongtu, China's former chief negotiator for entry into the WTO, during a panel discussion.

Carlos M. Gutierrez, BFA board member and former U.S. Secretary of Commerce, said at the panel discussion that the U.S. has a lot of responsibility for the trend of de-globalization prevalent in the world today, given the fact that the U.S. has adopted what he calls "political nationalism," as reflected by "Buy America" and "Bring jobs back to America."

"We cannot have these individual nationalistic policies, because they go against globalization," Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez emphasized that there has to be a commitment to respecting institutions, adding that the WTO is a worldwide institution and that leaders of countries have to make it clear that the WTO is important.

Gutierrez also said the United States has to believe that a prosperous world is good for the U.S. as "protectionism doesn't protect."

In the process of globalization, the issue of the "share of the pie" among different nations can be negotiated and solved through mechanisms like the WTO, said Wang Huiyao, president of the Center for China and Globalization.

"But if all the people stop making the pie together by staying in small yards and behind high walls, we will lose out in terms of prosperity and development," Wang said.

Meanwhile, in Long's view, the WTO should strengthen its function of setting up global trade rules for new global issues, like cross-border e-commerce and digital trade.

Wong Kan Seng, former deputy prime minister of Singapore, expressed similar viewpoints. The WTO's function of setting up rules and upholding trade multilateralism is very important, said Wong, urging that the WTO's dispute settlement mechanism should be restored soon.

"No one benefits from having a closed market," Wong said.

Justin Yifu Lin, dean of the Institute of New Structural Economics at Peking University, criticized some countries for using international trade as a scapegoat for domestic problems, such as high unemployment, a slowing economy, and a dwindling middle class.

"Now some developed countries have begun to impose restrictions after losing manufacturing competitiveness, thus making it more difficult to push globalization," Lin observed.

Lin called for solidarity among developing countries to continue promoting the international trading system under the WTO. "Despite the difficulty, the target could still be reached with unity and solidarity."

At a time when the multilateral trading system is not fully functional, some countries are turning to suboptimal solutions, such as regional free trade agreements. But in Long's view, "regional cooperation would not fully replace the global mechanism."

Over the years, China has always been a staunch supporter of multilateralism.

China, as the largest developing WTO member, has always firmly supported the multilateral trading system, genuinely practiced multilateralism, and earnestly fulfilled its WTO commitments, China's Ministry of Commerce said earlier this year. 
The Department of State has responded to inquiries about a staffer who publicly resigned over U.S. inaction regarding the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller pushed back on former staffer Annelle Sheline's public resignation earlier in the day, which she told outlets was due to being "unable to serve an administration that enables such atrocities" occurring in Gaza.

"She was a fellow at the State Department and, in my understanding, had just finished the first year of a fellowship that could have gone for two years and did not exercise her option to return for a second year as a fellow," Miller told reporters.

POLL FINDS MOST AMERICANS DON'T SUPPORT ISRAEL'S ACTION IN GAZA AS BIDEN-ISRAEL RELATIONS HIT 'LOW POINT'

Annelle Sheline, a former foreign affairs officer in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, resigned from her job at the State Department on Wednesday in protest of the Biden administration's continued support of Israel.

He continued, "There is a broad diversity of views inside the State Department about our policy with respect to Gaza just as there is a broad diversity in the State Department about our policy in a number of important foreign policy issues. As there is a broad diversity of views and opinions throughout American society about this issue and others."

Sheline, in a public display of disapproval towards President Biden's administration, resigned Wednesday from her job as a foreign affairs officer in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor. She cited U.S. inaction as Israel plans a ground invasion of Rafah that the White House has said it does not support.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"Israel is still planning to invade Rafah, where the majority of people in Gaza have fled; UN officials have described the carnage that is expected to ensue as 'beyond imagination,'" Sheline wrote in a Wednesday opinion piece for CNN. "In the West Bank, armed settlers and Israeli soldiers have killed Palestinians, including US citizens. These actions, which experts on genocide have testified meet the crime of genocide, are conducted with the diplomatic and military support of the US government."

CRITICS CHARGE BIDEN WITH ABANDONING ISRAEL, HOSTAGES AMID GROWING TENSIONS WITH JEWISH STATE

She added, "Whatever credibility the United States had as an advocate for human rights has almost entirely vanished since the war began."

Miller stated in the Wednesday press briefing that State Department personnel are given avenues through which they can openly dissent to higher-ups and conduct meetings on policy disagreements.

"When dissent cables are authored on any issue, [the Secretary of State] meets with employees who have a broad range of views. He listens to their feedback, and he takes it into account in his decision-making," Miller said. "And he encourages other senior leaders in the department to do so as well. And that's what he will continue to do and what we will all try to continue to do, because we believe that actually listening to dissent informs better decisions  having our having decisions challenged helps us make better ones in the future."

A view of a plaque depicting the United States Department of State logo in Washington D.C.

Sheline affirmed in a previous interview with the Washington Post that she attended multiple internal listening sessions in which personnel were able to voice dissenting points of view about policy.

"I wasnt able to really do my job anymore," she told the Post. "Trying to advocate for human rights just became impossible."

However, the vocal coalition of disgruntled State Department personnel have been unable to budge official policy  which Sheline says ultimately forced her resignation.

"I had not initially planned a public resignation. Because my time at State had been so short  I was hired on a two-year contract  I did not think I mattered enough to announce my resignation publicly. However, when I started to tell colleagues of my decision to resign, the response I heard repeatedly was, 'Please speak for us,'" Sheline wrote in her CNN column.





Original article source: State Dept. reacts to staffer's public resignation over Israel offensive in Gaza
The AI threat has emerged at a time when democracy advocates already are deeply concerned about the potential for ordinary online disinformation to confuse voters. (Getty Images)

This years presidential election will be the first since generative AI  a form of artificial intelligence that can create new content, including images, audio, and video  became widely available. Thats raising fears that millions of voters could be deceived by a barrage of political deepfakes.

But, while Congress has done little to address the issue, states are moving aggressively to respond  though questions remain about how effective any new measures to combat AI-created disinformation will be.

Last year, a fake, AI-generated audio recording of a conversation between a liberal Slovakian politician and a journalist, in which they discussed how to rig the countrys upcoming election, offered a warning to democracies around the world.

Here in the United States, the urgency of the AI threat was driven home in February, when, in the days before the New Hampshire primary, thousands of voters in the state received a robocall with an AI-generated voice impersonating President Joe Biden, urging them not to vote. A Democratic operative working for a rival candidate has admitted to commissioning the calls.

In response to the call, the Federal Communications Commission issued a ruling restricting robocalls that contain AI-generated voices.

Some conservative groups even appear to be using AI tools to assist with mass voter registration challenges  raising concerns that the technology could be harnessed to help existing voter suppression schemes.

Instead of voters looking to trusted sources of information about elections, including their state or county board of elections, AI-generated content can grab the voters attention, said Megan Bellamy, vice president for law and policy at the Voting Rights Lab, an advocacy group that tracks election-related state legislation. And this can lead to chaos and confusion leading up to and even after Election Day.

Disinformation worries

The AI threat has emerged at a time when democracy advocates already are deeply concerned about the potential for ordinary online disinformation to confuse voters, and when allies of former president Donald Trump appear to be having success in fighting off efforts to curb disinformation.

But states are responding to the AI threat. Since the start of last year, 101 bills addressing AI and election disinformation have been introduced, according to a March 26 analysis by the Voting Rights Lab.

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On March 27, Oregon became the latest state  after Wisconsin, New Mexico, Indiana and Utah  to enact a law on AI-generated election disinformation. Florida and Idaho lawmakers have passed their own measures, which are currently on the desks of those states governors.

Arizona, Georgia, Iowa and Hawaii, meanwhile, have all passed at least one bill  in the case of Arizona, two  through one chamber.

As that list of states makes clear, red, blue, and purple states all have devoted attention to the issue.

States urged to act

Meanwhile, a new report on how to combat the AI threat to elections, drawing on input from four Democratic secretaries of state, was released March 25 by the NewDEAL Forum, a progressive advocacy group.

(G)enerative AI has the ability to drastically increase the spread of election mis- and disinformation and cause confusion among voters, the report warned. For instance, deepfakes (AI-generated images, voices, or videos) could be used to portray a candidate saying or doing things that never happened.

The NewDEAL Forum report urges states to take several steps to respond to the threat, including requiring that certain kinds of AI-generated campaign material be clearly labeled; conducting role-playing exercises to help anticipate the problems that AI could cause; creating rapid-response systems for communicating with voters and the media, in order to knock down AI-generated disinformation; and educating the public ahead of time.

Secretaries of State Steve Simon of Minnesota, Jocelyn Benson of Michigan, Maggie Toulouse Oliver of New Mexico and Adrian Fontes of Arizona provided input for the report. All four are actively working to prepare their states on the issue.

Loopholes seen

Despite the flurry of activity by lawmakers, officials, and outside experts, several of the measures examined in the Voting Rights Lab analysis appear to have weaknesses or loopholes that may raise questions about their ability to effectively protect voters from AI.

Most of the bills require that creators add a disclaimer to any AI-generated content, noting the use of AI, as the NewDEAL Forum report recommends.

But the new Wisconsin law, for instance, requires the disclaimer only for content created by campaigns, meaning deepfakes produced by outside groups but intended to influence an election  hardly an unlikely scenario  would be unaffected.

In addition, the measure is limited to content produced by generative AI, even though experts say other types of synthetic content that dont use AI, like Photoshop and CGI  sometimes referred to as cheap fakes  can be just as effective at fooling viewers or listeners, and can be more easily produced.

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For that reason, the NewDEAL Forum report recommends that state laws cover all synthetic content, not just that which use AI.

The Wisconsin, Utah, and Indiana laws also contain no criminal penalties  violations are punishable by a $1000 fine  raising questions about whether they will work as a deterrent.

The Arizona and Florida bills do include criminal penalties. But Arizonas two bills apply only to digital impersonation of a candidate, meaning plenty of other forms of AI-generated deception  impersonating a news anchor reporting a story, for instance  would remain legal.

And one of the Arizona bills, as well as New Mexicos law, applied only in the 90 days before an election, even though AI-generated content that appears before that window could potentially still affect the vote.

Experts say the shortcomings exist in large part because, since the threat is so new, states dont yet have a clear sense of exactly what form it will take.

The legislative bodies are trying to figure out the best approach, and theyre working off of examples that theyve already seen, said Bellamy, pointing to the examples of the Slovakian audio and the Biden robocalls.

Theyre just not sure what direction this is coming from, but feeling the need to do something.

I think that we will see the solutions evolve, Bellamy added. The danger of that is that AI-generated content and what it can do is also likely to evolve at the same time. So hopefully we can keep up.

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This report has been updated to reflect information about laws in additional states.

The post States rush to combat AI threat to elections appeared first on Arkansas Advocate.
The AI threat has emerged at a time when democracy advocates already are deeply concerned about the potential for ordinary online disinformation to confuse voters. (Getty Images)

This years presidential election will be the first since generative AI  a form of artificial intelligence that can create new content, including images, audio, and video  became widely available. Thats raising fears that millions of voters could be deceived by a barrage of political deepfakes.

But, while Congress has done little to address the issue, states are moving aggressively to respond  though questions remain about how effective any new measures to combat AI-created disinformation will be.

Last year, a fake, AI-generated audio recording of a conversation between a liberal Slovakian politician and a journalist, in which they discussed how to rig the countrys upcoming election, offered a warning to democracies around the world.

Here in the United States, the urgency of the AI threat was driven home in February, when, in the days before the New Hampshire primary, thousands of voters in the state received a robocall with an AI-generated voice impersonating President Joe Biden, urging them not to vote. A Democratic operative working for a rival candidate has admitted to commissioning the calls.

In response to the call, the Federal Communications Commission issued a ruling restricting robocalls that contain AI-generated voices.

Some conservative groups even appear to be using AI tools to assist with mass voter registration challenges  raising concerns that the technology could be harnessed to help existing voter suppression schemes.

Instead of voters looking to trusted sources of information about elections, including their state or county board of elections, AI-generated content can grab the voters attention, said Megan Bellamy, vice president for law and policy at the Voting Rights Lab, an advocacy group that tracks election-related state legislation. And this can lead to chaos and confusion leading up to and even after Election Day.

Disinformation worries

The AI threat has emerged at a time when democracy advocates already are deeply concerned about the potential for ordinary online disinformation to confuse voters, and when allies of former president Donald Trump appear to be having success in fighting off efforts to curb disinformation.

But states are responding to the AI threat. Since the start of last year, 101 bills addressing AI and election disinformation have been introduced, according to a March 26 analysis by the Voting Rights Lab.

On March 27, Oregon became the latest state  after Wisconsin, New Mexico, Indiana and Utah  to enact a law on AI-generated election disinformation. Florida and Idaho lawmakers have passed their own measures, which are currently on the desks of those states governors.

Arizona, Georgia, Iowa and Hawaii, meanwhile, have all passed at least one bill  in the case of Arizona, two  through one chamber.

As that list of states makes clear, red, blue, and purple states all have devoted attention to the issue.

States urged to act

Meanwhile, a new report on how to combat the AI threat to elections, drawing on input from four Democratic secretaries of state, was released March 25 by the NewDEAL Forum, a progressive advocacy group.

(G)enerative AI has the ability to drastically increase the spread of election mis- and disinformation and cause confusion among voters, the report warned. For instance, deepfakes (AI-generated images, voices, or videos) could be used to portray a candidate saying or doing things that never happened.

The NewDEAL Forum report urges states to take several steps to respond to the threat, including requiring that certain kinds of AI-generated campaign material be clearly labeled; conducting role-playing exercises to help anticipate the problems that AI could cause; creating rapid-response systems for communicating with voters and the media, in order to knock down AI-generated disinformation; and educating the public ahead of time.

Secretaries of State Steve Simon of Minnesota, Jocelyn Benson of Michigan, Maggie Toulouse Oliver of New Mexico and Adrian Fontes of Arizona provided input for the report. All four are actively working to prepare their states on the issue.

Loopholes seen

Despite the flurry of activity by lawmakers, officials, and outside experts, several of the measures examined in the Voting Rights Lab analysis appear to have weaknesses or loopholes that may raise questions about their ability to effectively protect voters from AI.

Most of the bills require that creators add a disclaimer to any AI-generated content, noting the use of AI, as the NewDEAL Forum report recommends.

But the new Wisconsin law, for instance, requires the disclaimer only for content created by campaigns, meaning deepfakes produced by outside groups but intended to influence an election  hardly an unlikely scenario  would be unaffected.

In addition, the measure is limited to content produced by generative AI, even though experts say other types of synthetic content that dont use AI, like Photoshop and CGI  sometimes referred to as cheap fakes  can be just as effective at fooling viewers or listeners, and can be more easily produced.

For that reason, the NewDEAL Forum report recommends that state laws cover all synthetic content, not just that which use AI.

The Wisconsin, Utah, and Indiana laws also contain no criminal penalties  violations are punishable by a $1000 fine  raising questions about whether they will work as a deterrent.

The Arizona and Florida bills do include criminal penalties. But Arizonas two bills apply only to digital impersonation of a candidate, meaning plenty of other forms of AI-generated deception  impersonating a news anchor reporting a story, for instance  would remain legal.

And one of the Arizona bills, as well as New Mexicos law, applied only in the 90 days before an election, even though AI-generated content that appears before that window could potentially still affect the vote.

Experts say the shortcomings exist in large part because, since the threat is so new, states dont yet have a clear sense of exactly what form it will take.

The legislative bodies are trying to figure out the best approach, and theyre working off of examples that theyve already seen, said Bellamy, pointing to the examples of the Slovakian audio and the Biden robocalls.

Theyre just not sure what direction this is coming from, but feeling the need to do something.

I think that we will see the solutions evolve, Bellamy added. The danger of that is that AI-generated content and what it can do is also likely to evolve at the same time. So hopefully we can keep up.

This report has been updated to reflect information about laws in additional states.

The post States rush to combat AI threat to elections appeared first on Georgia Recorder.
The AI threat has emerged at a time when democracy advocates already are deeply concerned about the potential for ordinary online disinformation to confuse voters. (Getty Images)

The AI threat has emerged at a time when democracy advocates already are deeply concerned about the potential for ordinary online disinformation to confuse voters. (Getty Images)

This years presidential election will be the first since generative AI  a form of artificial intelligence that can create new content, including images, audio, and video  became widely available. Thats raising fears that millions of voters could be deceived by a barrage of political deepfakes.

But, while Congress has done little to address the issue, states are moving aggressively to respond  though questions remain about how effective any new measures to combat AI-created disinformation will be.

Last year, a fake, AI-generated audio recording of a conversation between a liberal Slovakian politician and a journalist, in which they discussed how to rig the countrys upcoming election, offered a warning to democracies around the world.

Here in the United States, the urgency of the AI threat was driven home in February, when, in the days before the New Hampshire primary, thousands of voters in the state received a robocall with an AI-generated voice impersonating President Joe Biden, urging them not to vote. A Democratic operative working for a rival candidate has admitted to commissioning the calls.

In response to the call, the Federal Communications Commission issued a ruling restricting robocalls that contain AI-generated voices.

Some conservative groups even appear to be using AI tools to assist with mass voter registration challenges  raising concerns that the technology could be harnessed to help existing voter suppression schemes.

Instead of voters looking to trusted sources of information about elections, including their state or county board of elections, AI-generated content can grab the voters attention, said Megan Bellamy, vice president for law and policy at the Voting Rights Lab, an advocacy group that tracks election-related state legislation. And this can lead to chaos and confusion leading up to and even after Election Day.

Disinformation worries

The AI threat has emerged at a time when democracy advocates already are deeply concerned about the potential for ordinary online disinformation to confuse voters, and when allies of former president Donald Trump appear to be having success in fighting off efforts to curb disinformation.

But states are responding to the AI threat. Since the start of last year, 101 bills addressing AI and election disinformation have been introduced, according to a March 26 analysis by the Voting Rights Lab.

On March 27, Oregon became the latest state  after Wisconsin, New Mexico, Indiana and Utah  to enact a law on AI-generated election disinformation. Florida and Idaho lawmakers have passed their own measures, which are currently on the desks of those states governors.

Arizona, Georgia, Iowa and Hawaii, meanwhile, have all passed at least one bill  in the case of Arizona, two  through one chamber.

As that list of states makes clear, red, blue, and purple states all have devoted attention to the issue.

States urged to act

Meanwhile, a new report on how to combat the AI threat to elections, drawing on input from four Democratic secretaries of state, was released March 25 by the NewDEAL Forum, a progressive advocacy group.

(G)enerative AI has the ability to drastically increase the spread of election mis- and disinformation and cause confusion among voters, the report warned. For instance, deepfakes (AI-generated images, voices, or videos) could be used to portray a candidate saying or doing things that never happened.

The NewDEAL Forum report urges states to take several steps to respond to the threat, including requiring that certain kinds of AI-generated campaign material be clearly labeled; conducting role-playing exercises to help anticipate the problems that AI could cause; creating rapid-response systems for communicating with voters and the media, in order to knock down AI-generated disinformation; and educating the public ahead of time.

Secretaries of State Steve Simon of Minnesota, Jocelyn Benson of Michigan, Maggie Toulouse Oliver of New Mexico and Adrian Fontes of Arizona provided input for the report. All four are actively working to prepare their states on the issue.

Loopholes seen

Despite the flurry of activity by lawmakers, officials, and outside experts, several of the measures examined in the Voting Rights Lab analysis appear to have weaknesses or loopholes that may raise questions about their ability to effectively protect voters from AI.

Most of the bills require that creators add a disclaimer to any AI-generated content, noting the use of AI, as the NewDEAL Forum report recommends.

But the new Wisconsin law, for instance, requires the disclaimer only for content created by campaigns, meaning deepfakes produced by outside groups but intended to influence an election  hardly an unlikely scenario  would be unaffected.

In addition, the measure is limited to content produced by generative AI, even though experts say other types of synthetic content that dont use AI, like Photoshop and CGI  sometimes referred to as cheap fakes  can be just as effective at fooling viewers or listeners, and can be more easily produced.

For that reason, the NewDEAL Forum report recommends that state laws cover all synthetic content, not just that which use AI.

The Wisconsin, Utah, and Indiana laws also contain no criminal penalties  violations are punishable by a $1000 fine  raising questions about whether they will work as a deterrent.

The Arizona and Florida bills do include criminal penalties. But Arizonas two bills apply only to digital impersonation of a candidate, meaning plenty of other forms of AI-generated deception  impersonating a news anchor reporting a story, for instance  would remain legal.

And one of the Arizona bills, as well as New Mexicos law, applied only in the 90 days before an election, even though AI-generated content that appears before that window could potentially still affect the vote.

Experts say the shortcomings exist in large part because, since the threat is so new, states dont yet have a clear sense of exactly what form it will take.

The legislative bodies are trying to figure out the best approach, and theyre working off of examples that theyve already seen, said Bellamy, pointing to the examples of the Slovakian audio and the Biden robocalls.

Theyre just not sure what direction this is coming from, but feeling the need to do something.

I think that we will see the solutions evolve, Bellamy added. The danger of that is that AI-generated content and what it can do is also likely to evolve at the same time. So hopefully we can keep up.

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The post States rush to combat AI threat to elections appeared first on Alaska Beacon.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  There is still time to help the Salt Lake City community experiencing homelessness with donated hygienic items in the Homeless Resource Centers Hygiene Resource Drive.

The drive, which started on Monday, March 18, goes through until Friday, March 29. People are encouraged to donate items to the resource center that will go toward creating hygiene kits for its community.

Donators are encouraged to bring items such as:

Toothbrushes

Toothpaste

Body wash

Shampoo

Conditioner

Washcloths

Deodorant

Wipes

Sunscreen

Chapstick

Floss

Menstrual hygiene products

New socks

New underwear

Nonperishable food items

Hot springs resort with 53 pools slated to open next year near Zion National Park

Donations can be dropped off over the next few days at Dynapac (338 Hansen Ave) from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Maven STRONG (155 East 900 South) from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donations can also be purchased online through the resource centers Amazon wish list.

Cant donate but still want to help out? Salt Lake City will be hosting a hygiene kit packing event on Tuesday, April 2. The event will be at the Sorensen Unity Center located at 1383 South 900 West from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

During the event, volunteers will put together donated items into individual kits to distribute to those in need.

To volunteer for the event, the community is encouraged to RSVP online, here.

According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, those experiencing homelessness have been on a steady decline across Utah, but the number is still high. On any given night, nearly 3,000 Utahns experience homelessness.

Many of those are considered to be sheltered and about 1,000 are people in families.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
William Timberlake addresses the court during his sentencing hearing on the charge of attempted telecommunications fraud, before Judge Michael Ernest in the Tuscarawas County Court of Common Pleas. Pictured at center is defense attorney Peter T. Cahoon, and at right is special prosecutor Thomas Anger, representing the Ohio Auditor of State.

NEW PHILADELPHIA  The owner of a Strasburg business has been sentenced to 90 days in jail for his role in a scheme involving the purchase of ammunition.

William G. Timberlake, 51, of Bolivar, owner of G&R Tactical in Strasburg, will also be required to serve 90 days of home confinement, perform 75 hours of community service, will be fined $1,000 and serve two years of probation. Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Judge Michael Ernest will allow Timberlake to serve the jail time in three 30-day increments. During his home confinement, he will be allowed to go to work and to medical appointments.

More on Timberlake: Owner of Strasburg business accepts plea deal in ammunition purchase case

In February, he pleaded guilty to one count of attempted telecommunications fraud, a first-degree misdemeanor.

Initial charges

He and his co-defendant, Jeffrey A. Stearns, 48, of Port Washington, a former Bolivar police officer and a former Sugarcreek officer, had been charged with one count of engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, a second-degree felony; one count of theft in office, a third-degree felony; one count of complicity in the commission of an offense, a third-degree felony; one count of money laundering, a third-degree felony; one count of telecommunications fraud, a fifth-degree felony; and two counts of unlawful transaction in weapons, a third-degree felony.

Timberlake was also facing a charge of fabrication in a theft offense, a fourth-degree felony.

Tuscarawas County Court of Common Pleas Judge Michael Ernest addresses William Timberlake during his sentencing hearing in New Philadelphia.

As part of the plea agreement with Timberlake, the state agreed to drop seven of the charges and amend the telecommunications fraud charge to attempted telecommunications fraud.

What happened

The Auditor of States Special Investigation Unit (SIU) launched an investigation in February 2022 after receiving information about an officer using Bolivars tax-exempt status and law enforcement discounts to purchase ammunition.

SIU determined that, during the coronavirus pandemic, when the private sale of ammunition was scarce, Stearns falsified documents to complete the ammunition purchase, allegedly for use by the Bolivar Police Department. The rounds, however, were picked up by Timberlake, and the Bolivar department had no knowledge of the transactions and received no ammunition for use by its officers.

Stearns pleaded guilty in February to one count of telecommunications fraud, a fifth-degree felony, in Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Court as part of a plea agreement. He is awaiting sentencing.

'He made some bad decisions'

Before Timberlake was sentenced, his defense attorney, Peter T. Cahoon of Canton, noted his client was a Navy veteran, spent time as a defense contractor and opened his firearms business in 2006.

"He's been extremely helpful to law enforcement," Cahoon said. "He helps train them. He is an expert at repairing firearms. He's given a lot to the community in those regards."

Attorney Peter Cahoon addresses the court during the sentencing hearing of William Timberlake, left, in the Tuscarawas County Court of Common Pleas in New Philadelphia. At right is special prosecutor Thomas Anger, representing the Ohio Auditor of State.

He added that Timberlake's only prior record is a speeding ticket in the 1990s.

"This is a person with an entire history of being a very law-abiding type of person," the lawyer said. "What happened with Mr. Timberlake is he made some bad decisions. He has acknowledged them."

Cahoon said Timberlake was embarrassed and humiliated by what he did.

An apology

"I deeply regret my actions," Timberlake told the judge. "I also would like to apologize to all the parties that I have injured and caused harm and pain."

Before passing sentence, Judge Ernest told the defendant that being a friend of law enforcement and helping law enforcement is not license to bend the rules or skirt obligations. "You have clearly found that out the hard way here, that that is not acceptable, even with the best of intentions," the judge said.

Timberlake is scheduled to report on April 8 for his first 30 days in jail.

Reach Jon at 330-364-8415 or at jon.baker@timesreporter.com.

This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: William Timberlake gets 90 days in jail in ammunition
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A juvenile was arrested at a southwest Las Vegas valley school after the administration confiscated a firearm, according to the Clark County School District.

In a letter to parents, Principal of Lawrence and Heidi Canarelli Middle School Jaclyn Ayala said that school administration confiscated a firearm from a student on campus Tuesday.

Clark County police were immediately contacted and as a result of the investigation, a juvenile was arrested.

The Clark County School District said it is actively pursuing any and all legal actions against students who engage in violence and violate the CCSD Student Code of Conduct.

The full letter to parents reads:

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This is Jaclyn Ayala, Principal of Lawrence and Heidi Canarelli Middle School.

In an effort to keep you informed of matters happening within our community, I want to make you aware of an incident that occurred today on campus.

School administration confiscated a firearm from a student. The incident was immediately reported to CCSD Police for investigation. As a result of the investigation, a juvenile was arrested.

Due to privacy laws, we are unable to discuss individual student matters, however, this event serves as a reminder that weapons of any kind are not permitted on campus. As it has been communicated multiple times, the Clark County School District is actively pursuing any and all legal actions against students who engage in violence and violate the CCSD Student Code of Conduct.

Please take this opportunity to discuss school safety with your child. If they ever face a situation where they are unsure whether or not to share information with an adult, please remind them to never hesitate reporting anything that may be a safety issue.

Students and parents can also make reports through the SafeVoice reporting system by calling 1-833-216-SAFE (7233), through the website at safevoicenv.org or through the free downloadable phone app.

Please know that this is a police matter, so we are unable to discuss specifics. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your child, please feel free to call our schools main office at 702-799-1340.

Thank you,

Ms. Ayala

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  More than 400 students from across the Sunflower State gathered at the Capitol building to advocate for mental health on Monday.

March 26 marks the celebration of Youth Mental Health Advocacy Day. The students at the Capitol building are a part of Youth Leaders in Kansas (YLINK). The organization has more than 50 groups spanning the entire state and is continuing to grow. YLINK is encouraged to hold events to make their voices known.

The students had the opportunity to speak with legislators about their passion and share personal stories. 27 News spoke with two students about their thoughts on mental health awareness.

Abortion survey bill heads to Kansas governors desk

It doesnt matter how old you are, said Raegann McDonald. It doesnt matter what background you come from. It effects every single person from other walks of life and so I think its important to showcase, its okay to not be okay, but its not okay to stay that way.

Its so so important for youth to become a part of something in the mental health field because youth help youth, said Isabella Blackwood. Theres only so much that adults can do for you and really youth find comfort and help in their peers.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness says 35,000 Kansans between the ages of 12 and 17 have depression.

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.
An image of a car submerged in water is spreading in posts about the bridge that collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland, after a heavily laden cargo ship lost power and struck a support column in late March 2024. But the photo is misrepresented; it shows a vehicle that entered a river in Northern Ireland in January 2022.

"#BREAKING Very Shocking visuals," says a March 26, 2024 post sharing the picture on X. "A cargo ship collided with the #FrancisScottKeyBridge in Baltimore leads to its complete collapse, with multiple cars plunging into the water below and more than 20 people missing #Baltimore #BridgeCollapse #Bridge."

Screenshot from X taken March 26, 2024

Similar posts rocketed across X and other platforms, including Instagram, in the hours after a container ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, blocking one of the busiest US commercial harbors. Authorities said the vessel lost power and plowed into the structure after issuing a Mayday call and dropping anchors in a last-ditch effort to avoid disaster.

Divers and other specialist crews have been combing the Patapsco River in an effort to locate six missing members of a construction crew, who as of March 27 were presumed dead and who had been repairing potholes on the bridge when it collapsed. Two other people on the team were rescued from the frigid waters.

Baltimore's fire chief James Wallace said sonar found vehicles in the water, but that he could not give further details. Maryland Governor Wes Moore said the investigation was still ongoing, while state Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said officials "do not believe" any people were trapped in cars.

Some of the posts circulating online included real images from the Baltimore disaster, but the photo of the submerged car is unrelated to the collapse, which sparked a flood of misinformation on X.

A reverse image search uncovered the same picture in articles from the BBC, the Belfast Telegraph and other websites about a man who was rescued from his car after driving into a river on the outskirts of Dungiven, Northern Ireland, on January 1, 2022 (archived here, here and here). The silver Peugeot 3008 vehicle collided with a bridge in the area before entering the water.

The reports attribute the picture to the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, which posted it to Facebook (archived here).

"Fire crews from Dungiven & Limavady, supported by specialist crews from Crescent Link & Central Fire Stations responded to a vehicle in water incident this morning on the outskirts of Dungiven," the agency wrote.

"The vehicle driver was rescued by the first attending crews and a subsequent systemic river search was undertaken until the PSNI confirmed that all vehicle occupants had been accounted for."

AFP has debunked other misinformation about the Baltimore bridge collapse here.
NAIROBI, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's exports reached 1 trillion shillings (about 7.6 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, up from the 5.95 billion dollars recorded in 2022, a government official said on Wednesday.

The weakening of the Kenyan shilling last year made the country's products competitive in international markets, Jaswinder Bedi, chairman of the Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency, told journalists in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

"Africa was the key destination for exports, accounting for about 40 percent of all goods sold overseas," Bedi said at a business forum. Kenya exported manufactured goods such as iron and steel, pharmaceuticals, lubricating oils and vegetable oils to other African countries.

Bedi added that key agricultural exports in 2023 included tea, coffee, flowers, fruits and vegetables, which were mostly exported to Europe and Asia. 
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  After a family of four was tragically killed at a San Francisco bus stop, city transportation officials released their first report on the crash.

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agencys traffic fatality report collision summary states that the driver of an SUV was speeding into on-coming traffic when it plowed into the bus stop on March 16.

An infant, 1-year-old boy, mother, and father were waiting for a bus to take them to the zoo when they were killed. Police said Mary Fong Lau, 78, was driving the Mercedes SUV when it barreled into the family at Muni Metro West Portal Station.

The MTAs collision summary states, A driver of an SUV was speeding eastbound on Ulloa St, drove on the wrong side of the road and onto the sidewalk, struck the library, and struck the victims, who were waiting at the bus shelter at Lennox.

Diego Cardoso de Oliveira, Matilde Ramos Pinto, and their young children pose for a family photo. (Photo courtesy the Pinto and Oliveira family)

The San Francisco Police Department has not released a cause behind the crash.

A Chief Medical Examiner identified the four victims as:

Diego Cardoso de Oliveira, 40

Matilde Moncada Ramos Pinto, 38

Joaquin Ramos Pinto de Oliveira, 1

Caue Ramos Pinto de Oliveira, 2 months

The bus stop tragedys youngest victim is seen in a photograph at a memorial. (KRON4 image)

The heart-wrenching tragedy happened on a sunny Saturday afternoon. The mother, father, and baby Joaquin died that day. Two-month-old Caue clung to life for four days inside UCSF Benioff Childrens Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

The infant was the last surviving member of Matilde and Diegos direct family. Little Caue was a fighter and our hero; his organs were donated and will serve to save the lives of other children, family members of the victims wrote in a statement.

Matilde Ramos Pinto, left, and Diego Cardoso de Oliveira, right, are seen in a photograph left at the bus stop memorial. (KRON4 image)

The statement continued, Diego and Matilde were warm and loving parents who had a deep love for their beautiful children and enjoyed nothing more than spending time with their two little boys. They were also what one would call real life enhancers  the kind of people everyone loved to be around: happy, funny, kind, and always eager to make the best of what life had to offer them.

Infant dies after crash at SF West Portal bus stop

A woman places flowers in a growing memorial for those killed at a Muni bus stop in San Francisco. (Carlos Avila Gonzalez/San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

The MTAs report states that the site of the crash has a double yellow centerline, a do not pass sign, and train warning signs.

Police arrested Lau on suspicion of manslaughter, reckless driving with bodily injury, driving the wrong way on a divided highway, and speeding. Lau is currently out of custody.

The District Attorneys Office has not filed any charges so far in the case, according to San Francisco Superior Court records. Toxicology tests can take months to be completed.

An SUV crashed into Munis West Portal Station on Saturday, March 16, 2024. (Benjamin Fanjoy /San Francisco Chronicle via AP)

Laus attorney, Sam Geller, told KRON4, Im grateful and appreciate of the fact that the DAs Office, despite the potential of public pressures, is conducting a thorough investigation to make a proper determination.

Laus attorney wrote, Ms. Lau has been fully cooperating with investigators and will continue to do so. While its understandable to seek more information regarding the causes of this devastating accident, Ms. Lau and her family respectfully request privacy during this difficult time.

Jodie Medeiros, executive director of Walk San Francisco, said, This is one of the worst pedestrian tragedies to ever occur on San Francisco streets. It is almost beyond comprehension.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
1 male in custody after barricading himself in apartment in Lower Valley

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A male has been taken into custody after a family fight escalated resulting in the male barricading himself on Wednesday, March 27 in an apartment in El Pasos Lower Valley, according to El Paso Police Department Public Information Officer Sargent Robert Gomez.

At 1 a.m. Wednesday officers responded at 8017 San Jose Rd. to a family fight call, according to Gomez.

At that time, officers arrived to investigate the family fight and the male suspect evaded officers in a vehicle, according to Gomez.

Later on the day, the male suspect returned to the apartments, forced its way in and barricaded himself with a female and a child. Officers remained at the scene during that time, according to Gomez.

Gomez said the male suspect did release the female and the child, barricading himself alone in the apartment.

At approximately 9 a.m. SWAT was called at the scene and at approximately 11 a.m., the male suspect was arrested with the assistance of K-9, police dogs, according to Gomez.

Gomez said the male suspect suffered injuries from a K-9 bite.

The male suspect will be booked in the family fight assault, evading and other pending charges, according to Gomez.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom has stated that NATO countries should seek to create more strategic difficulties to curb Russia's behaviour, with the top priority being to stop Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Source: European Pravda, citing Euractiv, a news website covering EU affairs

Quote from Billstrom: "We have to understand that Russia is a neighbour that is behaving irresponsibly, which is threatening the world with irresponsible nuclear threats and the idea of recreating its former empire at the expense of independent sovereign states () We have to put an end to that. We have to create more strategic difficulties for Russia."

Details: The minister stressed that stopping Russia's aggression against Ukraine must be the top priority. He believes the Alliance is not doing enough in this regard.

Euractiv noted that the Swedish minister's comments partially echo recent statements by French President Emmanuel Macron, who pushed for "strategic ambiguity" towards Russia and hinted at the possibility of deploying Western troops to Ukraine, which caused a stir among Western allies.

Billstrom said Macron's idea would be too bold for Sweden, which has just joined NATO in March.

"Regarding the French proposal to train Ukrainian personnel on Ukrainian soil, its not on the table for Sweden," the minister explained, hinting that Stockholm considers the debate over Macron's comments to be untimely.

However, the Swedish foreign minister stressed that "not all countries understand the sense of urgency" to stop Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

"Those countries need to understand that the conflict is here and that we need to deal with it. NATO is not doing enough for Ukraine," Billstrom said, adding that Ukraine's Armed Forces need "more of almost everything".

The minister believes providing Ukraine with more military equipment "is not a question of industrial capacity" but "comes down to political leadership and political will".

Background:

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis believes there is a greater chance that Vladimir Putin will be deterred by Macron's strategic ambiguity and his clearly defined goal of defeating Russia.

French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne stated that Paris wants to increase strategic ambiguity towards Russia.

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SWEETWATER, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  The City of Sweetwater is requiring a permit for solicitors.

In a Facebook post, the city advised residents to ask for a permit next time a door-to-door solicitor knocks.

Heres how a solicitors permit looks:

If the solicitor at your door does not have one, you may ask them to leave. If you want to file a Consumer Complaint with the Texas Attorney General, youll need quite a bit of information beforehand. Information needed includes name of the business or individual, the businesss full address, and more.

The City of Sweetwater made these changes in 2018, but recently put forth a reminder. The city does allow door-to-door solicitors with permits and a few other stipulations including that the permit must be visible and valid for 30 days. Plus, theyre only allowed to go door-knocking during daylight hours.

Good tips to follow when someone knocks on your door: Dont invite them in and dont give them sensitive information like your bank details or social security number.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
ADEN, Yemen, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's presidential council on Wednesday appointed Shayea Mohsen Al-Zindani as the country's new foreign minister, succeeding Ahmad Awad bin Mubarak, who also serves as the country's prime minister.

Having previously held the position of Yemen's ambassador to several nations, Al-Zindani's most recent post has been Yemen's ambassador to Saudi Arabia since 2017.

The appointment comes at a critical juncture for Yemen, which has been engulfed in a protracted conflict since late 2014 when Houthi forces seized control of the capital Sanaa. The Yemeni government has since been operating from the southern port city of Aden, designated as the country's temporary capital.

As the conflict in Yemen enters its 10th year, over half of the country's population is in desperate need of aid, and an estimated 17.8 million people require health assistance, 50 percent of them children, according to the United Nations. 
Louise Bruder says that while AI can be used to fight AI-created deepfakes, human checkers will always still be needed

Louise Bruder never forgets a face. Which is not only a handy skill at parties, but it has helped her carve out a career.

She has the fabulous job title of super-recogniser, and her work at UK digital ID firm Yoti involves comparing the photos on an identity document with an uploaded selfie, to determine if it is the same person.

But Yoti, in common with other ID firms, faces a new threat - spotting so-called deepfakes. These are fake images created using AI-powered software.

Louise tells me that she hasn't yet been asked to assess deepfakes as part of her day job, but the firm is well aware of the threat. And so, it is actively working on technology that will help spot them.

Putting her skills to the test with the BBC's own Deepfake quiz, she scored seven out of eight. "There's a deadness in people's eyes that really means they don't look real," says Louise.

Ben Colman is the boss of Reality Defender, a US firm that aims to provide technology to spot deepfakes, and he thinks Louise may struggle soon to tell real from fake.

Ben Colman warns that deepfake technology is getting ever more sophisticated

"I'd say that in the last nine months it's become next to impossible for even the best experts to tell real versus AI generated. We need a software solution to do this," he says.

Mr Colman differentiates between really sophisticated deepfakes, which may be deployed by a nation state to create disinformation, and what he calls "cheapfakes", whereby criminals use off-the-shelf AI software.

Worryingly, even the cheap fakes "are still good enough to fool people, particularly within images and audio," he says. Video, though "is still a little more challenging, and requires a lot more computation".

The solution his firm offers can scan and flag AI representation in an image, video or audio. Clients include the Taiwanese government, Nato, media organisations and large banks.

While it is video or image deepfakes that more often get the headlines, audio-only scams are also growing. For example criminals sending voice recordings using a person's voice to say things like "Mum, I've lost my phone, please pay money to this account now".

Collecting voice clips from someone's account social media or YouTube is an easy job, and just a few seconds of audio is enough to clone the voice and use it to create sentences the person never said.

Some off the shelf software even allows users to "dial up" stress levels in a voice, a technique that has been used to fool parents in real cases where parents believed their child had been kidnapped.

Siwei Lyu is a professor at the University of Buffalo in the US who has studied deepfakes for many years, with the ultimate goal of developing algorithms to help automatically identify and expose them.

The algorithms are trained to spot tiny differences - eyes that might not be quite looking in the right direction or, in the case of an artificially created voice, a lack of evidence of breath.

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Prof Lyu thinks there needs to be a degree of urgency to solving the problem, warning that video conferencing may be the next target for criminals.

"Not far in the future you could be plugged into a Zoom call, and you think you are talking to me, but it might be a virtual version of me. Somebody might use my image and create that as a deepfake presence in the zoom call."

Deepfakes also have the potential to cause widespread societal disruption. Last year, a fake image of an explosion near the Pentagon went viral on social media, as did fake pictures of Donald Trump in handcuffs.

And in January, the New Hampshire Department of Justice was forced to release a statement saying that a recorded audio of Joe Biden telling residents not to vote in the state primary election was a deepfake.

Sigurdur Arnason runs a music creation platform in Iceland. Before Christmas he was asked by the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service to create a video music skit using a deepfake of a beloved dead Icelandic comedian called Hemmi Gunn for a show that aired on New Year's Eve.

"We thought it would be a fun project," he says. "We asked permission from the comedian's family and we created our own in-house AI models."

The skit did more than amuse, though.

"It sent shockwaves through the whole country," says Mr Arnason. "All of the radio, online news publications and TV were all talking about it. Some family members were not happy because it was so real. Politicians started talking about AI regulation."

The creation of a deepfake version of Icelandic comedian Hemmi Gunn (centre) created a storm in his country

It is important that politicians and the general public have such conversations and debates, thinks Christopher Doss, a researcher at think tank Rand Corporation.

He recently conducted a study into deepfakes which revealed that the more humans are exposed to deepfakes, the less likely they are to correctly identify them.

And he worries that using AI tools to fight the threat of AI creations could be a flawed approach.

"It's just going to set up a kind of arms race between those who are trying to detect it, and those who are trying to evade detection," he says. "The algorithm will figure out some artefact in the current deepfake landscape, and then the creators will shore up their weaknesses and improve their methods a little bit."

For him, grappling with the problem properly will involve training people to be more critical about the content they are consuming, including viewing everything with "a healthy scepticism", and double-checking sources.

That could mean teaching children about how to spot deepfakes from an early age. "The biggest challenge, and the one I don't have a solution for, is how to teach the general adult population," he says.

Christopher Doss says members of the public need to become more aware of deepfakes

Mr Colman, from Reality Defender, thinks the onus should be on companies to build solutions for spotting deepfakes, not consumers. "My mother is not responsible for identifying anti-virus issues," he points out. And he doesn't think she should be responsible for spotting deepfakes either.

"Social media and online sharing platforms are taking the approach that if we're not required to do it, we will do the bare minimum, and pass the buck on to consumers and let them flag things," he says. "The problem with that is it's like putting the toothpaste back in the tube.

"People only flag things when they've been seen a million times and it's already too late."

Back at Yoti, Louise Bruder says that no matter how good AI gets at fighting deepfakes, there will always be a need for human checkers like herself. "Providing a human check is a requirement for many businesses... and we don't expect that to change as it gives businesses extra confidence."
How taking a break can help save an influencer's dying career, even when it seems like there's no hope

Gabbie Hanna returned to the internet after a yearlong hiatus, to a positive reception.

Hanna's break allowed her and her audience time to heal and forgive.

Experts say audiences tend to be forgiving of influencers who show genuine change.

Last year, Gabbie Hanna took an extended break from the internet, with some thinking she would never come back.

But she did, and despite having contended with a string of controversies before her departure, she was welcomed back with open arms.

The shift in perception is not guaranteed by stepping away, but it does help, experts say.

Content creators feel pressured to consistently post to stay relevant, and Hanna's example could challenge the fear in the creator economy that stopping even briefly could ruin livelihoods as fans move on.

Like many before her, Hanna saw the benefits taking a break could have on her career, particularly when she returned as someone who seemed more down-to-earth and less focused on the relentless drama mill.

Hanna has been a content creator since 2013, getting her start on Vine and then building a fan base on YouTube, where she told stories, released music, and had a brief stint in David Dobrik's Vlog Squad.

But her career was marred with backlash for promoting poor-quality makeup brushes, her friendship-ending feuds with fellow creators, and some controversial comments about mental illness and neurodivergence.

In January 2023, Hanna stopped posting on all her social media accounts following a self-described manic episode where she posted over 100 TikToks in a single day. She stayed away from posting for over a year.

She was spotted a couple of times in the real world, but for the most part, she was gone, leaving fans and critics to wonder whether she would return.

They would get their answer on February 29, when Hanna released a music video on her channel titled "Where Did I Go?"

Accompanying the video were some social-media posts, then a handful of vlogs where Hanna detailed her break, saying she quit smoking weed and was recovering from a social-media addiction.

After a period of several years where it seemed like she could do no right in the internet's eyes, Hanna's videos were finally met with positivity.

The comment section filled up with people welcoming her back, saying they missed her, and praising her new song. They were glad to see her creating again, they said, and doing what she loved.

Many said they were happy to see Hanna "happy and healthy" and were "proud" of her.

It was a striking turnaround.

Taking a break the right way

Toni Ferrara, a public relations expert and the founder of Ferrara Media, told BI that stepping away from the spotlight can be "a powerful act of accountability."

"This not only allows influencers time for introspection and personal growth but also grants their audience the space to heal and forgive," she said.

"However, true redemption lies in action, not just words," she said.

"It's imperative for influencers to return to their platforms with tangible evidence of positive change, demonstrating their commitment to growth and accountability."

Katya Varbanova, the CEO of Viral Marketing Stars, told BI that Hanna's"incredibly dramatic" exit led to speculation.

Over time, though, the chatter died down and everyone moved on. This allowed Hanna to really step away from the drama and focus on herself.

Her return to the internet was positive and honest, and people picked up on that.

"That kind of break allows you to really step away from the stress, focus on your well-being, and make visible improvements and mental improvements," Varbanova said. "So that when you come back, people can see that you have really grown, improved your life. It's a very good story arc."

Varbanova contrasted Hanna's comeback to that of Colleen Ballinger  a YouTube veteran who faced allegations of "grooming" and inappropriate behavior and returned with a notoriously poorly received ukulele apology. Her conduct was criticized as inauthentic and "manipulative."

"The public tends to be more forgiving of celebrities and influencers who come back and show genuine change," Varbanova said.

"You can tell when someone's coming from a good place energetically versus when they're coming from a place of being forced or from a place of having to do so, which is why I think transparency and humility and down-to-earthness also contributes to a good return."

How getting 'canceled' has changed

Hanna, like many influencers, has been "canceled" multiple times over her career. Before her time away, she seemed unable to avoid such run-ins.

But Sophie Wood, the director of strategy at the influencer marketing agency Fohr, told BI getting canceled looks very different from how it used to.

Once, beauty influencers publicly fought over trivial misunderstandings, leading to fierce fandom wars and mass unfollowings that became a kind of online blood sport.

More recently, creators have come under fire for putting their friends in danger, cultivating unsafe and unethical working environments, and sexual impropriety. The increased stakes make other disputes seem petty in comparison.

"I do think that cancellation is just more normalized now, or it just happens so frequently, that it's not a case of if but when for anyone who has a platform on the internet," Wood said. "It does bear the question of, does cancellation hold the same weight as it did before?"

There's still an appetite for backlash. On TikTok, viewers jump to conclusions and take sides in heated disputes, whether it's a cake gone wrong, a rude Etsy store owner, or an ill-fated brand deal.

The pendulum swings both ways, Wood said, with some getting canceled "for really silly things" and others keeping their platform when they've potentially committed a crime.

But largely, there's a culture of telling people to "touch grass" and reflect on whether a given influencer drama is actually significant.

"It's like, OK, you're actually too online and this doesn't actually matter," Wood said. "You need to go outside and touch grass because this is not a cancelable offense, and we've taken it too far."

The shift may be thanks to a greater understanding of how mental-health problems can impact a person. Gen Zers, in particular, are ready to forgive people for acting out in times of hardship, Wood said.

Hanna was clearly in a bad place a year ago, and is in a noticeably better one now. Audiences are smart, Wood said, and they know when change is authentic.

"I do think that she did it right," she said of Hanna. "It's really refreshing and I'm glad that people are welcoming her with open arms. Because everyone deserves a redemption era."

Hanna did not respond to Business a request for comment from Business Insider.

Read the original article on Business Insider
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  As the war in Gaza enters its sixth month, tensions are strained between the U.S. and Israel over the possibility of a cease-fire.

Despite the rift between the U.S. and Israel on how to defeat Hamas, Matthew Miller, a state department spokesman, said a meeting between both countrys leaders could be back on.

A full scale, military operation into Rafah would be a mistake, said Miller.

The Biden administration is standing firm in its opposition to Israels plans to invade the southern Gaza town where more than a million Palestinian refugees are trying to survive.

The kind of mission we could support is a much more targeted, limited campaign, said Miller.

Miller says Israels current plan endangers too many civilians.

Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says his military still plans to invade Rafah and he has the backing of South Carolina Republican Senator Lindsey Graham.

Heres my advice to you and your country. Get on with it, said Graham.

Graham was in Israel urging the Biden administration and Congress to get on the same page and stand behind Israel.

The one thing that Israel cannot afford is mixed signals, Graham added.

Netanyahu signaled his anger with the U.S. this week by canceling plans to send a delegation to Washington.

It was a reaction to the U.S. allowing the U.N. Security Council to approve a cease-fire resolution.

Netanyahu said that emboldened Hamas and he wanted to send a message.

It was a message first and foremost to Hamas: Dont bet on this pressure. Its not going to work, said Netanyahu.

Miller says the meeting has not been rescheduled.

We do think its important that that meeting happen, he said.

The State Department says any cease-fire would have to come with the release of hostages.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Ted Leonsis, right, owner of the Washington Wizards NBA basketball team and Washington Capitals NHL hockey team, speaks during a news conference with Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, left, and DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, center, at Capitol One Arena in Washington, Wednesday, March 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

WASHINGTON (AP)  When Ted Leonsis told District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser late last year that the NBA's Washington Wizards and NHL's Washington Capitals he owns would probably be leaving Washington for Virginia, she told him no, they would not.

Ultimately, she proved to be right.

The teams are staying in the District for the long term after Gov. Glenn Youngkin's plan to lure them to Virginia imploded and the city and ownership reached an agreement on a $515 million, publicly funded arena project.

Bowser and Leonsis signed a letter of intent Wednesday for the deal, which keeps the teams in the District through 2050. They announced the development at a joint news conference at Capital One Arena, the teams' current home, minutes later.

"Its a great day, and Im really relieved," Leonsis said. This was not only the right thing for the community, the right thing for the city, the right thing for us, its a really smart business deal.

The project is set to include 200,000 square feet (18,580 square meters) of expansion of the arena complex into the nearby Gallery Place space, the creation of an entertainment district in the surrounding Chinatown neighborhood and safety and transportation upgrades.

"We are the current home and the future home of the Washington Capitals and Washington Wizards," said Bowser, who donned a Wizards jersey. As Ted likes to say, we're going to be together for a long time.

The Council of the District of Columbia will take up the deal next week and is expected to pass it, Chairman Phil Mendelson said at the news conference.

The agreement between Monumental Sports & Entertainment and the city came as officials in Alexandria, just across the Potomac in Virginia, said talks for a new arena that would have moved the teams there had ended.

Leonsis acknowledged Virginia had land as an advantage D.C. didn't.

Youre in this arms race to build bigger and better and higher quality and weve been running out of space, Leonsis said, referencing the new entertainment community the agreement envisions that is not nearly as big as the 12 acres (4.9 hectares) that were dedicated to the arena in Virginia. But its enough.

The ultrawealthy entrepreneur said he generally wanted to avoid discussing Virginia but did throw a few jabs at the state, where political divisions between Youngkin, a Republican, and Democrats who control the General Assembly contributed to the plan's demise.

"You cant do it alone, and I felt that we were really in a good partnership," Leonsis said, as opposed to where I thought I would have a great partnership.

The development is blow to Youngkin, who announced months ago with fanfare the outlines of the Alexandria proposal he'd called a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring two major pro sports teams to the nation's most populous state without one.

In a statement Wednesday, the governor expressed disappointment and frustration, laying blame with Democrats.

This should have been our deal and our opportunity, all the General Assembly had to do was say: thank you, Monumental, for wanting to come to Virginia and create $12 billion of economic investment, lets work it out. But no, personal and political agendas drove away the deal, he said.

Democrats responded by saying Youngkin had mismanaged the proposal from the start. House Speaker Don Scott said he was blown away by Youngkin's statement, which he said seemed like it had been written by a teenager, and bristled at the suggestion that the Legislature should have given the deal an easy sign-off.

He has lost his sense of good judgement right now, said Scott, who had not fully endorsed the deal but expressed openness to it.

He added that from the tone of the statement, he expects Youngkin might retaliate by vetoing the budget lawmakers sent him earlier this month.

Alexandria, which first announced the news, said in a statement posted to its website that it was also disappointed.

We negotiated a framework for this opportunity in good faith and participated in the process in Richmond in a way that preserved our integrity," the statement said. We trusted this process and are disappointed in what occurred between the Governor and General Assembly.

Matt Kelly, the CEO of publicly traded real estate company JBG SMITH, a partner to the Alexandria deal as the proposed developer, issued a blistering statement that laid blame on partisan politics and raised the prospect that potential pay-to-play influences had a hand in the project's demise.

Beyond the arena, state and local governments will lose needed tax revenue, economic development credibility, and what could have been Virginias last best chance to land a professional sports franchise for at least a generation, Kelly said.

The Virginia plan called for the creation of a $2 billion development district in the Potomac Yard section of Alexandria, with not only a new arena but also a practice facility and corporate headquarters for Monumental, plus a separate performing arts venue.

The General Assembly was asked to set up an authority that would issue bonds to finance most of the project, backed partly by the city and state governments and repaid through a mix of projected tax revenues recaptured from the development.

Youngkin and other supporters said the development would generate tens of thousands of jobs, along with new tax revenues beyond what would have been needed to cover the financing.

The plan faced opposition from labor unions, Alexandria residents concerned about traffic and D.C. officials who feared the loss of the teams would devastate downtown Washington.

Youngkin and other backers also failed to win over powerful Democratic Sen. L. Louise Lucas, of Portsmouth, who chairs the Senates budget-writing committee. She used that position to block the legislation, citing a range of concerns but foremost the financing structure of the deal: The use of moral obligation bonds put taxpayers and the states finances at risk, Lucas said.

Lucas celebrated the proposals demise Wednesday. On social media, she posted a cartoon of herself swatting away a basketball with the word REJECTED superimposed. She wrote, As Monumental announces today they are staying in Washington DC we are celebrating in Virginia that we avoided the Monumental Disaster!

Leonsis had shifted his tone on social media in recent days, pointing to large crowds in Capital One Arena this month for everything from the Capitals and Wizards to ACC Tournament basketball and a Zach Bryan concert. He posted Wednesday that Monumental expected over 400,000 fans to pass through turnstiles in March.

He and Bowser began talks about keeping the teams in the District not long after Virginia disclosed its offer, including through regular meetings in a posh hotel lobby, Leonsis said.

Until 10 minutes ago, I had never signed a piece of paper, Leonsis said.

___

Rankin reported from Richmond, Virginia, and Barakat reported from Falls Church, Virginia.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Talks have restarted aimed at bringing top Israeli officials to Washington to discuss potential military operations in Gaza, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a planned visit this week because he was angry about the U.S. vote on a U.N. cease-fire resolution, the White House said Wednesday.

So were now working with them to find a convenient date thats obviously going to work for both sides," said press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

No date has been finalized yet. One U.S. official said strategic affairs minister Ron Dermer and national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi would be among the delegation to come to Washington. The official were not authorized to speak publicly about the sensitive discussions and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

An Israeli official said the White House had reached out with the goal of setting a new meeting. The official was not authorized to talk to the media and spoke on condition of anonymity. Netanyahus office said the prime minister did not authorize the departure of the delegation to Washington.

The prime minister canceled the trip this week after the U.N. vote to demand a cease-fire in Hamas-run Gaza; the U.S. abstained from the vote but did not veto it. Netanyahu accused the United States of retreating from a principled position by allowing the resolution to pass without conditioning the cease-fire on the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The delegation to the U.S. was meant to discuss a promised ground invasion of the southern Gaza city of Rafah, which is overflowing with displaced civilians. Israel has so far rejected American appeals to call off the planned operation.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant was already in Washington by the time Netanyahu canceled the trip by other officials. Gallant met with Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The Gaza operation was one of many topics they discussed.

Netanyahu on Wednesday said his decision to cancel was meant to deliver a message to Hamas that international pressure against Israel will not prompt it to end the war without concessions from the militant group, an apparent attempt to smooth over the clash between the allies.

Speaking to visiting Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., Netanyahu said the canceled visit was a message first and foremost to Hamas: Dont bet on this pressure, its not going to work.

Netanyahu said the U.S. abstention on the U.N. vote was very, very bad, and that it encouraged Hamas to take a hard line and to believe that international pressure will prevent Israel from achieving its war aims. Israel wants to destroy Hamas military and governing capabilities and free the hostages taken by the militant group during its Oct. 7 attack against Israel.

The U.S. abstention and Netanyahus subsequent decision to cancel the delegation represented the strongest public dispute between the two allies since the war in Gaza began.

___

Associated Press writers Josef Federman and Tia Goldenberg in Jerusalem contributed to this report.
TRENTON  New Jersey first lady Tammy Murphy, who bailed from her bid for the U.S. Senate on Sunday after a bruising first attempt at elected office, said Wednesday that she intends to seek office again in the future.

There is no question that I would do it again," Murphy said after the first meeting of the Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority, a new state agency she championed.

I feel the burden of all those who believe that we can get to a better place," she said with tears welling in her eyes. She then went on to explain how her phone had been exploding" with text message and emails since she announced her departure from the race via video on Sunday.

Tammy Murphy speaks with supporters outside the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Hall, Local 164, where the Bergen County Democratic Party Convention is being held, Monday, March 4, 2024, in Paramus

Murphy said that kind of outpouring only encouraged her to pursue another run for office. But just what office? She did not say.

At the end of the day, I have a lot of work to do now," she told reporters outside the offices of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, near the Statehouse.

Focus on defeating Donald Trump, preserving Democratic power in DC

Murphy reiterated the public explanation in her exit video, which was that she did not want to engage in a brutal primary and take down a fellow Democrat with the prospect of former President Donald Trump seeking a return to the White House this year.

Weve got to maintain control of the Senate. Weve got to flip the House," she said. "And oh, by the way, here in New Jersey, we have some really consequential down-ballot races that I did not want in June to have  whoever the candidate should be who emerged  damaged and have our party so splintered."

Her decision to withdraw now makes Rep. Andy Kim, D-Burlington, the front-runner for the nomination in the June 4 primary. Patricia Campos-Medina, a labor activist from Hunterdon County, and Lawrence Hamm, a veteran social justice activist from Essex County, are also vying for the Democratic nomination. Murphy did not make an endorsement.

Charlie Stile: How far will the fallout from the end of Tammy Murphy's Senate campaign reach?

Kim leads in polls as battle over NJ's county line goes on

But other forces most likely caused Murphy to consider her departure. She was trailing in the polls against Kim, a three-term congressman with little name recognition or party organization outside his Burlington County base. Murphys entry into the race infuriated the partys grassroots activists, who accused her of trying to coast into the seat on the coattails of her powerful husband, Gov. Phil Murphy.

Both Murphys vehemently denied charges of nepotism, but the endorsements of county chairpersons in the Democratic-voter-rich counties in North Jersey only further inflamed activists who have been challenging the implacable power of the party machines in recent years.

Those endorsements also guaranteed that Murphy would be granted a preferential placement on the June 4 primary ballot, bracketed in the same column  or line  as other endorsed candidates.

Candidates listed on the line almost always win. Kim tapped that grassroots anger and filed a federal lawsuit seeking to strike down the line, asserting that it is unconstitutional and anti-democratic and seeking to have the ballots redrawn in a new block format, with candidates for the same office grouped together. The method is used in the 49 other states and in two New Jersey counties, Sussex and Salem.

A ruling from U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi could come any day.

Murphy dodged questions about the lawsuit and the support of the county bosses, chastising reporters for being incredibly focused on process while ignoring her core policy concerns.

I have spent since day one talking about policy," she said. "Im talking about things that are important to people. When they get out of bed in the morning, theyre not asking about the process. Theyre asking about: How do I put food on the table? How do I get my kids to school? How do I get myself to work? How do I make sure I earned enough in that job that I can actually survive in this world? Thats what Ive been focused on.

Murphy said she was all set to hand in more than 9,000 signatures by Mondays deadline for filing the petitions necessary to get on the primary ballot, which is nine times more than needed. But she dropped out in time so her name would not appear on the ballot and confuse voters.

Earlier, Murphy announced that Lisa Asare, the state's deputy commissioner of health services, would become president of the new maternal health authority and that the post would be elevated to a Cabinet-level position. The $225,000 post does not require Senate confirmation.

Charlie Stile is a veteran New Jersey political columnist. For unlimited access to his unique insights into New Jerseys political power structure and his powerful watchdog work, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email: stile@northjersey.com

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Tammy Murphy says she may seek office in New Jersey again
Retired accountant Neil Mathews said he'd never come across HMRC's ten-week wait for refunds - Lorne Campbell/Guzelian

Neil Matthews has been chasing HM Revenue and Customs for a refund for the best part of three months.

The retired accountant, 63, filed a self-assessment tax return in mid-December, well before the January deadline.

I make additional pension contributions most years, he said. I usually get a refund and it usually comes in a week or so.

But after months of back-and-forth with the tax office, Mr Matthews does not expect to see his money until May. Returning from holiday in January he rang HMRC and after a 30-minute on the phone was told by an adviser that the money would come through soon.

By February, nothing had changed. Another 25-minute wait on the phone later and Mr Matthews found himself on the phone with another adviser, who said Mr Matthews money had been put through security clearance.

Mr Matthews said: They apparently have 10 weeks to do this. Im a retired accountant and my wife is a tax adviser, and we have never heard of this.

Over the past week scores of readers have contacted The Telegraph with stories of long wait times, unhelpful chatbots and withheld refunds.

Charlie Clarke, from Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, said HMRC cancelled a cheque he had received after his late brother had overpaid tax. Mr Clarke said he rang the tax office three times, each time being left on hold for 30 to 45 minutes.

I phoned HMRC and was told there was an error and the cheque would be reissued, he said.

Some time later I called again and was told someone was reading my notes. After I was left on hold, the call was cut off.

I finally called again. I was told that I would need to write in and make a complaint, which I did. Im still due a reply.

Last week the tax office was forced to U-turn on plans to permanently close its helplines for self-assessment and VAT for half the year, in a move to drive more customers online.

Public outcry at the decision, announced with just four days notice, was swift and immediate.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt ordered HMRC to pause the idea which was condemned in the House of Commons by MPs from all parties.

HMRCs chief executive Jim Harra said: Weve listened to the feedback and were halting the helpline changes as we recognise more needs to be done to ensure all taxpayers needs are met, whilst also encouraging them to transition to online services.

The backlash may not have come as a shock to HMRC, which itself admitted that a trial run of phone line closures saw taxpayers who were pushed online call back within a day.

The results of the trial, handed to the Treasury Select Committee, said that policies to encourage more taxpayers online during the self-assessment season resulted in longer wait times and lower satisfaction.

The committees chairman, Harriett Baldwin MP, said at the time: The idea that they can interpret those figures as justification for making it even harder to contact them over the phone indicates something is seriously wrong at HMRC.

10 week refund delays

Ironically, Reverend Scott Watts, 57, was on hold with HMRC while the chaos was playing out. The tax office, he claims, owes him a 1,098 refund after he moved from effective self-employment in a vicarage to full-time employment at a hospital trust in Cambridge in 2022.

Rev Watts filed his self-assessment form ahead of the January 31 deadline with the help of a clergy tax expert. But two months later, Rev Watts said the money had still not been repaid.

Rev Scott Watts is still waiting for a refund that HMRC confirmed he was owed - David Rose

1,098 might not be a lot of money to most people, but its a lot to me, he said. It left me feeling like these are untouchable people. I am a vicar and Im not known for being difficult, but 10 weeks is totally unacceptable.

I work as an NHS chaplain and have to respond within hours to see a patient  if I waited 10 weeks a lot of them would be dead.

Rev Watts claims he initially rang the tax office on March 4 and after waiting an hour spoke to an adviser, who confirmed the amount he was owed but said HMRC would have 10 weeks in which to repay it.

I feel deeply disappointed. By their admission, this is my money and I have no access to it, Rev Watts said. If you dont submit your returns on time youre penalised but once they have your money they can do what they like with it and run to their own timelines.

HMRCs previous trial of phone line closure was chalked up as partial success. The tax office had succeeded in transferring some 26,000 customers to HMRCs extra support team  more than three times the number of calls before the trial.

But HMRC remains hard to reach  average callers had to wait 25 minutes on the phone last month before getting through to an adviser.

For taxpayers like Mr Mathews, the wait goes on. If I am one day late I am hit with a fine, he said. I dont know whether in eight weeks I will get my money back, or if theyll finally advise me then. Its left me feeling like these are unaccountable people. It seems HMRC is in an absolute mess.

We have had every official body from Treasury Select Committee to parliamentary committees criticising HMRC but they seem to be a law unto themselves.

An HMRC spokesman said: Were enhancing and expanding our digital services to give customers the quick and easy ways to manage their tax affairs that they expect.

Our helpline and webchat advisers will always be there to support those who need that specific type of support. But we recognise some can experience difficulties and that is why we are always working to further improve our customer services.

Recommended

How to speak to a human at HMRC

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ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  Taylor County commissioners held a public hearing Tuesday to gain some public input on which organization should be in charge of emergency response across the county. Taylor County EMS has held the position for the last few years. Now, commissioners are considering some outside contenders.

Abilene City Council urged to set a policy on limiting city vehicle use outside of town

Three emergency medical service (EMS) organizations were considered by the county for the position. The two front runners for the post are Metro Care and Taylor County EMS.

MetroCare, a subsidiary of American Medical Response (AMR), runs ambulance services for the City of Abilene and covers most everything within city limits. Will Hendon, regional director for AMR, said the companys corporate backing should not discourage the public from trusting MetroCare.

Its going to be exactly the way it is now with good folks taking care of good folks, and you can still look over your shoulder and expect that your friend is gonna be the person looking out for you, assured Hendon.

During the meeting it was pointed out that current county emergency response provider, Taylor County EMS, doesnt have the same advantage as a nonprofit organization as compared to that of its corporate-backed competitors. However, a representative said the services rapport with the Taylor County community speaks for itself.

Taylor County Judge Crowley looks to add another full-time ambulance service

The people that live in the county that rely on these services They want Taylor County EMS to stay, David Allman, executive director of Taylor County EMS, said.

Allman continued to explain before Tuesdays meeting with county officials that Taylor County EMS goes the extra mile when it comes to taking care of the community, Were the ones providing your volunteer fire departments with training. Were the ones that are out at the expo center standing by for West Texas Fair and Rodeo out on the fairgrounds voluntarily. We dont get paid for that.

UPDATE: Fire at Aspen Square Apartments causes $80,000 in damages

While the public hearings main subject was to determine which service would be take on the responsibility for emergency medical response across Taylor County, concerns were raised on adequate research and consideration involving the decision.

Those voiced concerns lead officials to table the subject so that more time could be taken for the consideration of this important position. The conversation will be reopened on Tuesday, April 23.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
Taylor Swift's father, Scott Swift, will not face charges for allegedly punching a photographer in Australia, New South Wales Police Force confirmed to CBS News.

The incident occurred in February when Swift was in Melbourne for her Eras Tour. The pop star and her father, then 71, were coming off a yacht at the Neutral Bay Wharf, where veteran paparazzi photographer Ben McDonald was taking photos of them, the Associated Press reported at the time.

In a statement to CBS News at the time, a representative for Taylor Swift told CBS News that "two individuals were aggressively pushing their way towards Taylor, grabbing at her security personnel, and threatening to throw a female staff member into the water."

McDonald told police Swift assaulted him. "There were about four or five security there and at one point, one of the American security started shoving his umbrella into me and my camera and then Taylor got in her car," McDonald then told the AP.

Taylor Swift performs at Melbourne Cricket Ground on February 16, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. / Credit: Graham Denholm/TAS24/Getty Images

"Someone else came running at me and punched me in the left side of my face. Initially, I thought it was an Australian security that was trying to be the hero of the moment in front of the Americans, but as it turned out it was her father," McDonald added.

McDonald reported the alleged incident to police but was not seriously injured, AFP reports.

The New South Wales Police Force did not release the names of the parties involved but confirmed they were investigating a 71-year-old man who allegedly assaulted a 51-year-old man at 2:30 a.m.

McDonald later identified Scott Swift from an online picture. "In 23 years, I haven't been assaulted and punched in the chops, particularly by the talent's dad," he told the AP.

Scott Swift soon left Australia, police said. Taylor Swift also left via private jet after seven sold-out stadium concerts in the country.

Fans, who dubbed the star's dad "Papa Swift," defended Scott in social media posts.

The police told CBS News that after investigating the incident, they decided they "will take no further action in relation to the matter."

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WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, Manhattan (PIX11)  More than 2,000 students attended a tech fair in Washington Heights.

Its the citys largest gathering of public high school students studying computer science. The goal is to create the next generation of technology leaders. Inside the armory in Washington Heights, 57 high schools went on a special field trip, participating in the tenth year of the NYC Computer Science Opportunity Fair.

For some, it will be life-changing. Beth Portocarrero has been a computer science high school teacher at In-Tech Academy in the Marblehill section of the Bronx for eight years. Portocarrero said two of her seniors are already headed to college and will be majoring in computer science.

Nearly 70 NYC jobs available for students on citys website

Its about opportunity and equity, and its all free. Portocarrero said her students are meeting with colleges and learning about internships and jobs they didnt even know existed.

Fred Wilson is the chairman of Tech:NYC and has organized this fair for years. Wilson said its important to focus on public school students, especially women and women of color.

Ty Curry, the community manager at Googles Code Next, said the one-on-one experience is critical.

He said if you can see, you can be it. Curry said they have programs right now that help train high school students for a career in tech, from coding to design to 3D modeling.

The annual computer science Fair is thanks to Gotham Gives and partners like Tech:NYC, Microsoft, and Google. What these students learn could transform them into the technology leaders of tomorrow.

If you have a story, reach out to Monica Morales at monica@pix11.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
TOKYO, March 27 (Xinhua) -- A second fatality linked to supplements containing red yeast rice, or "beni-koji" manufactured by Japanese drugmaker Kobayashi Pharmaceutical has been confirmed in the wake of health issues arising from the ingredient, according to the country's health ministry.

The findings were disclosed by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare after questioning officials at the Osaka-based drugmaker, noting that details of the second death remained unclear. However, a doctor's written comment said the person suffered kidney damage.

According to the ministry, Kobayashi Pharmaceutical said that 106 individuals have been hospitalized upon consuming the supplements, with approximately 3,000 inquiries voicing health concerns received by the company's helpline.

As the health issue escalates, the Osaka city government on Wednesday issued recall orders for three products containing yeast-fermented rice subject to voluntary recalls, and according to local media reports, the city government plans to issue disposal orders after the completion of the process based on the Food Sanitation Act, suspecting harmful substances.

The pharmaceutical also announced the cancellation of its new employee ceremony scheduled for next Monday in the city of Osaka.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi on Wednesday told a press conference that the incident "raised serious concerns about the safety of functional food products," national news agency Kyodo reported.

According to local media reports, it took Kobayashi Pharmaceutical over two months to disclose the damage they had been aware of, and the Consumer Affairs Agency plans to conduct an emergency inspection of over 6,000 functional foods.

The drugmaker's case marked the first of a manufacturer publicly announcing health damage and initiating voluntary recalls since the functional food labeling system was introduced in the country in 2015.

The beni-koji linked to health issues was manufactured at Kobayashi Pharmaceutical's Osaka factory. While the company suggested that unexpected mold-derived ingredients may have caused the problem, no specific cause has yet been identified. 
As the jaws of a giant machine tore into the roof and north wall of Teehans, an Irish tavern in downtown Tinley Park, Wednesday, you could almost hear the strains of Danny Boy being sung reverently.

Located for decades in a building put up long before Tinley Park was founded, Teehans was demolished to make way for a near-replica on the same site.

At the northeast corner of Oak Park Avenue and North Street, north of the Oak Park Avenue Metra station, it is in the footprint of the villages planned Harmony Square development, which is to include a concert stage and splash pad.

Apartments are also planned nearby.

As the building was, in short order, reduced to rubble, it may have resembled an Irish wake, but the last respects had been paid earlier this month.

Longtime patrons and fans had bid farewell to Teehans March 3, during Tinley Parks 24th annual Irish Parade and the final day of business for old Teehans.

Some people slowed down Wednesday as they drove along Oak Park Avenue, and a handful stood on the sidewalk on the west side of the street, their cameras taking in the final moments of Teehans.

Among them was Charlie Chappetto, who is now 61 and began popping into Teehans when he moved to Tinley Park when he was 24.

It was just a favorite watering hole, he said.

Chappetto said he and his wife, Jane, would frequent the tavern, and said his daughter met her husband there. They have been married a little more than a year.

I was a newcomer when I first started going there, he said. I got to know a lot of people over the years.

Tinley Park paid $200,000 for the property, including the intellectual and other property, which includes the names Teehans and Teehans Irish Bar as well as the phone numbers, email address and website.

Regis Teehan operated the bar for 34 years before retiring last September, and it was in her family since 1917.

Tom McAuliffe, owner of Durbins Pizza restaurants in the southwest suburbs, operated Teehans after her retirement, and will also operate the re-christened Teehans, under village plans. McAuliffe operated a Durbins for 16 years at 17265 S. Oak Park Ave., just to the north of Teehans.

The first business on the site was built in 1852 and called the Pacific Hotel, reflecting the owners hope the nearby railroad line would ultimately extend to the Pacific Ocean, according to a May 2003 Chicago Tribune article. It later became the Tinley Park Hotel.

Customers and others had tried to convince Tinley Park officials to repair and preserve the building, but were told the cost would be prohibitive.

The foundation is in poor shape and structural support beams in the basement are cracked and not sufficient to carry the weight of the building, they said.

Everybody said why cant you repair it?' Chappetto said. Its 170 years old, its beyond repair.

Construction of the replacement is expected to take a little more than a year, according to the village.

Chappetto said he cant be certain the new Teehans will have the same feel as the one he had grown accustomed to.

You hope so, he said. Its going to be brand new.
LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Police in Lancaster County say a teenager was the gunman in a shooting where a young man was injured earlier this month.

William Martin, 16, was arrested Tuesday and is being charged as an adult for the shooting at the 200 block of W. Grant Street on March 19, Lancaster City Bureau of Police said in a news release.

One injured after shooting in Lancaster County, police investigating

Police said that a male juvenile was shot after 5 p.m. and was transported to the hospital for treatment of his non-life-threatening injuries.

According to online court documents, Martin faces numerous charges that include felony counts of aggravated assault, discharging a firearm into an occupied structure and carrying a firearm without a license. He also faces misdemeanor counts of possession of a firearm by a minor and recklessly endangering another person.

Martin is currently locked up at Lancaster County Youth Intervention Center with bail denied with court documents stating no condition or combinations of conditions other than imprisonment can guarantee safety.

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A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 2.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
TAYLORSVILLE, Utah (ABC4)  Two teenagers who were arrested in connection to the shooting death of 21-year-old Alex Franco have been charged as adults, according to court documents.

Because of their ages, ABC4.com is not releasing the names of the juveniles, but the two that were charged are both 17 years old.

PREVIOUS STORY: Taylorsville Police make third arrest in death of missing 21-year-old

One of the 17-year-olds is being charged with five felonies, including first-degree murder, first-degree aggravated robbery, second-degree obstruction of justice, third-degree abuse or desecration of a human body and second-degree purchase, transfer, possession or use of a firearm by a restricted person.

The other 17-year-old is being charged with first-degree murder, first-degree aggravated robbery, second-degree obstruction of justice and third-degree abuse or desecration of a human body.

According to the probable cause declaration in court documents, the teenagers were planning to meet with Franco to sell him a gun.

Someone associated with Franco reportedly told police she saw three males inside a white SUV before Franco got into the vehicle. She said it looked like they were arguing with Franco before the vehicle sped off and she heard a loud noise which sounded like a gunshot, court documents said.

Surveillance video obtained by police captured the vehicle traveling away from the scene, as well as a loud sound consistent with a gunshot and the sound of squealing tires, as stated in the probable cause declaration.

According to court documents, police found a vehicle matching the description of the one involved in the incident at a residence in Salt Lake City. The documents said the car looked like it had been painted blue, as it still had visible brush strokes and drying paint.

READ NEXT: Shes mentally ill: Ruby Frankes prison phone calls reveal evolving stance on Jodi Hildebrandt

The inside of the vehicle was wet and a blood stain could be seen on the floor and seatbelt of the rear passenger seat, documents said.

According to the probable cause statement, one of the 17-year-olds turned himself into the Taylorsville Police Department while police were preparing search warrants for the address where the vehicle was found.

That teenager also reportedly led officers to the location in Utah County where the juveniles left the body of Franco, who was determined to have been killed by a gunshot to the left side of his head at close range, according to the documents.

Based on what the juveniles told police, the driver of the vehicle was 17, another passenger was 17, and the individual who shot Franco was 15. The 15-year-old was also said to be the one who took Francos body out of the car and left it in a field, according to documents.

The 15-year-old admitted to painting the car afterward, documents said.

On the day of the incident, one of the 17-year-olds told police the teenagers decided to rob Franco upon arrival, according to the probable cause declaration.

The 15-year-old suspect and Franco reportedly got into an argument in the backseat, and when the 17-year-old passenger turned around, he was pepper-sprayed. He then told police he heard a loud bang and saw Franco slouched in the backseat.

The teenagers split the money they got from Franco. One of the 17-year-olds got $100.

Someone associated with the 15-year-old told police that the 15-year-old said Franco was going to rob the teenagers, which is why they shot him. That person reportedly helped paint the vehicle after being told to do so by an uncle of one of the other suspects. The uncle also suggested the teenagers burn the car.

According to documents, a relative of one of the 17-year-olds wanted to keep him out of trouble, so he reportedly went with him to meet with the 15-year-old and the associate at a library, where they discussed what to do with the Jeep Liberty.

One of the 17-year-olds was on probation, which is why he was considered a restricted person. Documents said he is also subject to an enhanced penalty because he was previously convicted of an offense.

Both 17-year-olds have been ordered to be held without bail.

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

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
The Tennessee Senate Judiciary Committee on March 26 narrowly blocked a controversial proposal that would have allowed concealed carry permit holders to bring guns into businesses without the property owners' consent.

Senate Bill 2180, backed by Sen. Joey Hensley, R-Hohenwald, aimed to exempt concealed carry or enhanced-handgun carry permit holders from current Tennessee criminal code that makes "possessing a firearm in a concealed manner" illegal if the business owner has posted signage prohibiting weapons on the property.

Sen. Joey Hensley, R-Hohenwald, speaks during a Senate session at the Tennessee state Capitol in Nashville, Tenn., Monday, March 18, 2024.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation opposed the bill, arguing the legislation would allow anyone with a valid handgun permit to carry a gun inside state buildings, including things like jails or prisons or Department of Children's Services facilities.

Business and property owners could still ask a gun holder to remove the firearm from the premises under the proposed bill, and law enforcement could enforce a trespassing charge. Hensley argued any business could still hire security or use metal detectors to prohibit firearms, but the gun carrier could no longer be charged for bringing it into the business under the current signage law.

Elizabeth Stroeker, the Department of Safety legislative affairs director, argued the current posting requirements are already "very clear" in the state and the legislation could put state employees or business owners in a difficult situation.

"We do not want to put people in a position to see someone with a firearm and approach that person and ask them to leave, or wait for law enforcement to get there to handle the situation," Stroecker said.

Supporters of the bill argued it would more broadly protect gun rights. Sen. Brent Taylor, R-Memphis, suggested stores are "assuming a great liability" of prohibiting guns in businesses, comparing blocking guns to blocking inhalers, and suggesting a business could be sued if a customer had an asthma attack without an inhaler or fell victim to a violent crime without a firearm.

"What's the better outcome, for someone to put their gun in a car, susceptible to being stolen, or to keep it with them?" Sen. Kerry Roberts, R-Springfield, said.

The Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce earlier this month decried the legislation in an "action alert" email to its members. The chamber warned the law could restrict their property rights.

"SB2180/HB1904 puts business owners in a dangerous position by requiring us to confront armed individuals in our establishments to remove them, regardless of our business's policies on firearms," the Chamber said. "Sponsors say this bill expands gunowner rights, but this bill will allow licensed gun owners to carry firearms into our establishments and prevent us from restricting the proliferation of guns on our properties in a safe manner."

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: TN bill allowing concealed carry in all businesses fails
Tennessee mother accidentally shot, killed teen daughter while rummaging in purse for keys: police

A Tennessee mother is mourning the death of her teen daughter after police said that she accidentally shot and killed her while rummaging in her purse for her keys.

In a press release, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department said that they are investigating the death of 13-year-old Dearria Radley.

Authorities said that the teen's mother, DeAnn Radley, frantically called 911 around 10 p.m. Saturday.

Radley told police that she was reaching into her purse and accidentally pushed the trigger on her loaded .40-caliber semi-automatic pistol while searching for her keys.

COVENANT SCHOOL COMMUNITY FINDS HEALING IN FAITH, ADOPTED DOGS A YEAR FOLLOWING TRAGEDY

Police said that the handgun discharged and shot through her purse, fatally killing her daughter.

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The teenager was rushed to the Vanderbilt Children's Hospital emergency room, where police say she died from a single gunshot.

Radley told local NBC affiliate WSMV that her world is "falling apart."

NASHVILLE POLICE SAY RILEY STRAIN'S DEATH WAS ACCIDENTAL WITH NO FOULD PLAY-RELATED TRAUMA'

Metro Nashville Police Department, Tennessee

"My world is just falling apart," she said. "I loved that little girl so much."

The Nashville police said no charges have been made.





Original article source: Tennessee mother accidentally shot, killed teen daughter while rummaging in purse for keys: police
ULAN BATOR, March 27 (Xinhua) -- At least 17 vehicles crashed near Mongolia's capital due to heavy snow on Wednesday morning, according to the country's Traffic Police Department.

The pileup occurred at a highway connecting Ulan Bator and Chinggis Khaan International Airport, 52 km south of the capital city, in the central Mongolian province of Tuv, the police said in a statement. There have been no reports of casualties or injuries.

Snow, blizzards, and dust storms have been hitting large parts of Mongolia since Tuesday evening. The unstable weather conditions are expected to continue through the weekend across Mongolia, said the country's weather monitoring agency.

Mongolia has a harsh continental climate as strong winds, snow, and dust storms are common in spring. 
Old observation towers stand near a fence as smoke rises after an explosion in the Gaza Strip, seen from Kibbutz Nahal Oz, Israel, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)

KIBBUTZ NAHAL OZ, Israel (AP)  Months after Hamas killed 1,200 people in an early-morning assault, Israeli communities ravaged in the attack remain mostly empty. Now the residents who fled these kibbutzim along the border with Gaza are wrestling with whether, how and when to return -- choices that have implications not just for their families, but also for the country. Here are the key takeaways:

Before Oct. 7, communities shaped by contradiction

Kibbutzim, which for decades have exemplified Israeli resilience, have long been a paradox. Many of those along the border with Gaza were built on or near the sites of former Palestinian villages. Over the years, residents tried to maintain economic relationships with people living in Gaza, the majority of whom are either refugees or their descendants. The residents of kibbutzim cherished life in the communities as almost idyllic. Yet, long before October 7, many were targets of frequent rocket attacks.

Trauma lingers as war stretches on

More than five months after last Octobers attack, the trauma inflicted by the killing and kidnapping of family and friends remains raw for residents of the kibbutzim. Israels massive invasion of Gaza, which has killed more than 30,000 people in Gaza, has likely curtailed the threat that such a large-scale assault could be repeated. But frequent artillery fire and the roar of fighter jets are a reminder that the empty border kibbutzim are extensions of the war zone.

Many people long for their homes

Residents have begun weighing whether, when and how to go back. In the hours after the attack, hundreds of kibbutzim residents were evacuated to hotels, dormitories and other locations, some hours away from their schools, jobs and homes. Many pine for the lives they left behind.

Consensus is elusive amid great uncertainty

But they are split on how to proceed, with some determined to go back and others deeply reluctant. With so much uncertainty about future security conditions along the border, many say that for now, it is impossible to make long-term decisions.

Family decisions, but with potential consequences for the country

The choices kibbutz residents make about whether to return are foremost about what is best for their families and close-knit communities. But the outcome is also important for Israel, whose leaders relied on border kibbutz as a way to solidify control of land after the 1948 war against Palestinian fighters and the armies of neighboring Arab countries.

If the kibbutzim  will not come back, no one will come, says Shlomo Getz, a researcher who studies the communities. That means we are losing our country.
Thousands of people gathered near the Hungarian parliament in Budapest on March 26, calling for the resignation of the chief prosecutor and Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Reuters reported.

The protests broke out after a former government insider published a leak that he says implicates other government officials in covering up corruption.

Orban's rule was rocked by large-scale protests already in February when it became known that then-President Katalin Novak pardoned a man imprisoned for covering up child sex abuse cases. Both Novak and Justice Minister Judit Varga resigned in the wake of the scandal.

Varga's ex-husband and former political insider, Peter Magyar, recently released a tape where the former justice minister apparently incriminates other officials in tampering with court records to cover up their roles in corrupt business dealings.

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"This is very clear evidence that the Hungarian justice system is not free and not independent," Katalin Cseh, a Hungarian opposition member of the European Parliament, told Politico.

"It is also one of the first cases when someone from Orban's inner circle has spoken out."

A spokesperson of Orban's government dismissed the accusations and accused Magyar of harassing his ex-spouse.

Hungary's current prime minister has been in power since 2010, with his tenure marked by democratic backsliding, fierce anti-immigration and anti-EU rhetoric, and amicable stances toward authoritarian regimes like Russia or China.

Orban has maintained warm ties with Moscow even amid the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, repeatedly obstructing aid for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia.

Read also: Opinion: Orban is plain wrong on Ukraine

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Editor's Note: The Kyiv Independent spoke with children under the permission of one of their surviving parents.

At the age of 11, Arina Pervunina saw Russian troops killing her father.

She and her younger brother were caught behind enemy lines at their grandparents house in Kherson Oblast shortly after the full-scale invasion started, while their parents were at home in Odesa.

In the early weeks of the invasion, Arinas father came to rescue his children and the girls two cousins from the Russian-occupied part of Kherson Oblast. They were in their car when Russian soldiers began firing at them.

Seventeen bullets hit Arina's father, Andrii Pervunin. One of Arinas cousins survived only because he was holding a dog that took a bullet and was killed instantly.

The Russian troops kept the children at their checkpoint for over an hour, dragging them along the ground and swearing at them before letting them go with other Ukrainians fleeing the occupation. Arina's father was taken to nearby Mykolaiv in the trunk of a car.

"He was given first aid, but we couldn't save him," Arina, now 13, told the Kyiv Independent.

To cope with the loss, she began writing letters to her father shortly after the tragedy. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba read one of Arina's letters at the United Nations General Assembly in July 2023.

"One week after the tragedy she wrote in her diary  'I don't want to live. What is this life without father?'" Kuleba said.

"These lines are impossible to read without tears," Kuleba added. "These are only the lines I managed to bring, but there are thousands of children like this who are going through the same suffering."

Russia's full-scale invasion has indeed taken a devastating toll on Ukraines children: Almost 600 children have been killed, and over 1,200 injured across Ukraine.

Varvara (L), Matvii (C) and Nataliia Motorna in their house in Kyiv, Ukraine. (Viacheslav Ratynskyi / The Kyiv Independent)

Almost 1,800 Ukrainian children have been made orphans by the war, the National Social Service of Ukraine said in a comment to the Kyiv Independent. Many other kids have lost a parent to the Russian full-scale invasion, like Arina, as at least 10,000 civilians and 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed since 2022.

At a young age, these children have to learn to cope with the loss and live without their parents' support.

While the loss of parents affects kids at any time, when experienced during war, the resulting trauma can worsen mental health challenges, making the overall impact on children even greater, says Ukrainian psychotherapist Marta Bilyk.

"Some children have to pull their parents out of shot-up cars or even dig (their bodies) from under the rubble of collapsed houses," Bilyk, who works at the Children of Heroes foundation, told the Kyiv Independent.

"The worse a parent's death is, and the more a child knows about it, the harder it is for them."

Read also: Uncertainty and despair: War taking heavy toll on mental health of Ukrainians

Children of war

Even children who have not suffered the loss of a direct relative due to Russia's brutal invasion have been robbed of a peaceful childhood, turning a whole generation into "children of war."

"We thought that the term 'children of war' had already passed and gone, but now we have children of war again," says Bilyk. "It includes those experiencing loss at a very young age, and fearing for one's own life and the lives of loved ones  which shouldn't be typical for children of this age."

Nataliia Motorna (L), Varvara (C) and Matvii (R) in their house in Kyiv, Ukraine. (Viacheslav Ratynskyi / The Kyiv Independent)

According to the United Nations children's agency UNICEF, the war has had a "devastating impact" on children's mental health and well-being, with an "estimated 1.5 million (Ukrainian) children at risk of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health issues, with potential long-term effects and implications."

Losing parents is among the worst outcomes of the war for children.

The grief can cause a child to lose interest in society and stop sharing their feelings with others. In some cases, the "intense sorrow" may cause "depressive symptoms, complete apathy, and a loss of interest and ability to learn," says Bilyk.

"Some children say, 'I want to be where dad is. I want to go after dad.' In acute cases, they may even have certain suicidal thoughts," she says.

Apart from the devastating effect on mental health, losing one or both parents may also lead to financial struggles and a deterioration in the overall quality of life for some families.

Bearing the responsibilities of two parents while coping with a painful loss is not easy, as Kyiv resident Nataliia Motorna can attest: Her husband of over 20 years, Illia, was killed during a combat mission in Sievierodonetsk, Donetsk Oblast, in late May 2022.

She says that the life she knew  full of laughter, joy, love, and adventures  ended the day she learned about her husband's death. Instead, she and her children, 12-year-old Varvara and 17-year-old Matvii, suffered unimaginable pain from their loss.

"When I found out about it, I began screaming at the top of my lungs," Motorna recalls. "I thought I would go completely insane."

But amid the unbearable pain of loss, Motorna had to step up and replace her husband as the primary provider for the family.

"I told the kids: 'You should know that I am terrified, that it hurts me very much, but you should also know that I won't do anything to myself, because now Im alone (looking after) the two (of you),'" Motorna says, trying to hold back tears.

Still, suffering their fathers loss themselves and seeing their mother in such a vulnerable state immediately made Matvii and Varvara grow older and stronger, their mother says.

Read also: How Russian troops killed 3 unarmed teenagers in Ukrainian village

Children of heroes

The Ukrainian government currently pays Hr 5,680 ($143) per month for children under six who have lost their parents, and nearly Hr 7,000 ($177) for children aged 6-18. Children with disabilities whose parents have been killed can get over Hr 9,000 ($228) from the government per month, according to the National Social Service.

Family doctors can provide the families with free psychological help, alongside other social benefits.

But with the huge amount of suffering that the Russian war has brought, and continues to bring, it might be challenging for the state to support each and every child in need.

Luckily, charities step up as well.

Matvii and Nataliia Motorna, son and widow of Illia Motornyi. (Viacheslav Ratynskyi / The Kyiv Independent)

From another widow, Motorna learned about the Children of Heroes foundation, which has been taking care of kids who have lost their parents to the full-scale invasion since March 2022, offering them psychological, legal, and humanitarian support.

The foundation currently has almost 8,000 children in its support program, with the majority of them, or 88%, being children of fallen Ukrainian soldiers.

It was the foundation that provided Kuleba with Arinas letters to her father, and it also found a psychologist for her and sent her to a summer camp in Spain with other Ukrainian children who have suffered the loss of a parent.

"It helped me a lot, as I realized how to live with this trauma, and saw children going through the same, or even something worse," Arina says.

Hanna Khomenko, the foundation's head of the department for working with children, says the charity also provides each family with a personal assistant, a mentor, who often contacts them to check their psychological state and learn about their needs.

"It's about our impact on our future," Khomenko says. "We thought about how these children would cope with their loss without a supportive community."

Motorna agrees: "It's crucial when someone cares When someone doesn't forget about you," she says.

Inspiring the future

The foundation's "strategic goal" is to support children until they reach the age of 18, Khomenko says.

"We try to find out what the child wants. Our aim is to help them build a path to achieving their goal. (We) try to do everything so that every child who receives help from our foundation, in 10 or even 18 years, is incredibly satisfied with their life."

To achieve that, Children of Heroes provides kids with various educational courses, including English and mathematics, and arranges camps and workshops for them.

However, inspiring children might be their most significant contribution to their future.

And giving them a chance to communicate with Ukraine's high-ranking officials and see the world is part of that contribution.

Last year, Varvara and Matvii attended a meeting with Kuleba, where they got a chance to chat with the foreign minister, which was "very motivating," according to the two.

Seven-year-old Iryna Vasylieva from Rivne has been dreaming of sending a letter to the former U.K. Prime Minister Boris Jonson for a while. She wanted to ask the official where she could purchase Javelin anti-tank missiles for her late father's battalion.

Iryna's father, Ukrainian soldier Oleksandr Vasyliev, was killed in combat in Mykolaiv Oblast in late March 2022. Shortly after his death, she began selling handmade wreaths and raising funds to support her father's comrades in arms.

Although she has already provided the battalion with several cars, thermal imagers, and other equipment, Iryna says getting them Javelins has been a long-time dream for her. Thanks to the foundation, she has recently handed a letter to Kuleba, asking him to give it to Johnson.

"She wrote to him (Johnson) that she is a volunteer, and that her father protects her from heaven, but his fellow soldiers need a lot of equipment to continue fighting," says the girl's mother, Viktoriia Vasylieva.

"I am eagerly awaiting his response," Iryna told the Kyiv Independent. "I dream of victory and of buying a Javelin."

Iryna Vasylieva on the grave of her father Oleksandr, who was killed on March 27, 2022. (Iryna Vasylieva / Instagram)

"These are the little things that inspire children, inspire us to move forward and do what we do, but with greater force," says Khomenko.

Arina says she still misses her father every day and knows nothing could ever ease her pain, but she is learning to live with her loss and has not stopped dreaming.

After visiting a camp in Spain last summer, she decided she wanted to study there to become a doctor.

"Then I want to return to Ukraine to treat older people, so that children like me never feel the pain I felt (by losing their parents)," Arina says.

Note from the author:

Hi! Daria Shulzhenko here. I wrote this piece for you. Since the first day of Russia's all-out war, I have been working almost non-stop to tell the stories of those affected by Russias brutal aggression. By telling all those painful stories, we are helping to keep the world informed about the reality of Russias war against Ukraine. By becoming the Kyiv Independent's member, you can help us continue telling the world the truth about this war.

Read also: 5 children killed in single attack: We should never forget what Russia did

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Two men and a teenager have been arrested by armed officers in Perth as part of a firearms investigation by Greater Manchester Police.

The national force confirmed "specialist resources" were deployed in Tulloch at about 15:00 on Tuesday.

Tulloch Hill and part of Tulloch Road, behind the house at the centre of the raid, were closed to traffic and local residents nearby were asked to leave.

Police Scotland said the suspects were now in custody.

A spokeswoman added: "There was no risk to the wider public."

Greater Manchester Police said officers from its Force Critical Wanted Unit took part in the operation.

It added the warrants formed part of an ongoing investigation by Bolton CID following two firearm discharges in the town on 17 March and 21 March.

A spokesman said two men, aged 27 and 23, were arrested on suspicion of assault and firearms offences.

A 17-year-old boy was also arrested for breach of bail.

All three remain in police custody for questioning.

Det Supt Joseph Harrop, head of serious and organised crime, said: "Firearms have no place on our streets and our team are vigorous in their response to stamping out this type of crime, ensuring the public are safe and also feel safe.

"Investigations into incidents involving firearms are robust, utilising specialists resources to understand the circumstances that led to violence erupting, arrest suspects, and build case files to support prosecution."
People take part in the funeral of Palestinians who were killed during an Israeli army operation in the Jenin camp in the West Bank. Three people have been killed, the Israeli army reported. Ayman Nobani/dpa

Three people have been killed in Israeli army operations overnight in Jenin in the West Bank, the Israeli army reported.

Israel's military said it conducted an anti-terrorist operation in the town on Tuesday night, during which Palestinians had thrown explosive devices. The soldiers responded with gunfire, killing one person. The 19-year-old who was killed was shot in the chest and thigh, the Palestinian Health Ministry in Ramallah said.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also said it had attacked and killed two other armed Palestinians in Jenin, with the health authority reporting that two people had died in an Israeli drone attack in the refugee camp there.

The IDF said its forces had destroyed a vehicle containing ready-to-use explosive devices. They also arrested two suspects who had previously been in the vehicle.

The health authority reported a total of four Palestinians injured in the course of the operations and confrontations with the IDF in Jenin. The town is considered a stronghold of Palestinian militants, and the Israeli army repeatedly carries out raids there.

Since the start of the Gaza war following the Hamas massacre on October 7 last year, the situation in the West Bank has become ever more tense.

More than 430 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli military operations, confrontations or their own attacks since then, the health authority said.

At the same time, there has also been an increase in violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians.

People take part in the funeral of Palestinians who were killed during an Israeli army operation in the Jenin camp in the West Bank. Three people have been killed, the Israeli army reported. Ayman Nobani/dpa

People look at a damaged car after an Israeli army operation in the Jenin camp in the West Bank. Three people have been killed, the Israeli army reported. Ayman Nobani/dpa

People look at the site of the bombing after an Israeli drone attack in the Jenin camp in the West Bank. Three people have been killed in Israeli army operations overnight in Jenin in the West Bank, the Israeli army reported. Ayman Nobani/dpa
Republican Sen. Corey Simon and Democratic Representatives Gallop Franklin and Allison Tant spoke at the Capital Tiger Bay Club March 27, 2024

Three members of Leon County's delegation to the Florida Legislature Wednesday highlighted their policy victories in the 2024 legislative session when they spoke before the Capital Tiger Bay Club.

Republican Sen. Corey Simon, and Democratic Reps. Allison Tant and Gallop Franklin, all of whom are from Tallahassee, shared inside-the-bubble stories of the recently concluded 60-day session with about 75 members of the local club, "founded to provide a non-partisan forum on current political issues."

The fourth member of the delegation  Rep. Jason Shoaf, R-Port St. Joe  was unable to attend the luncheon.

This session, Franklin, Simon and Tant secured about $131 million in local projects, subject to approval by the governor, and a pay raise for the areas 20,000 state employees  a $26 million impact to the local economy. But they spent much of their time highlighting their policy successes in other areas:

Simon touted his efforts as Senate Education Committee chair to deregulate public schools, end high-stakes testing, and to find ways to identify struggling students earlier.

Franklin pushed a bill to allow pharmacists to prescribe HIV prevention medication and allow home health services for Medicaid patients.

Tant thanked Simon and Franklin for backing her effort to create a supported decision making law for parents to advocate for adult children with developmental disabilities. She has a developmentally disabled son.

Tant and Franklin explained how they funneled bills on disability rights, elder care and health care through Simon in the Senate.

The Capital Tiger Bay Club Tallahassee was established in 1971

'We have a very functional delegation'

When Franklin breached the usual etiquette and referred to Simon as "Corey" instead of "Senator," he quickly apologized, provoking laughter from the audience.

We tend to be informal, Franklin said over the audience's response.

We have a very functional delegation, Tant quickly added.

Tant said she found the 2024 session to be less emotionally charged than last year's, when lawmakers passed landmark legislation for universal school choice, a six-week abortion ban and eliminated the need for a concealed carry permit for firearms.

Simon said he noticed a slower pace to legislating this year: The Florida Senate approved 143 bills in 2024, compared to 194 the previous year.

We had an opportunity to sit down and really dive into the policy issues ... I think I learned more this session because of just being able to dig into the issues, Simon said.

James Call is a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jcall@tallahassee.com and is on X as @CallTallahassee.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Franklin, Simon, Tant emphasize teamwork at latest Capital Tiger Bay
A total solar eclipse will roll over Indiana on April 8, 2024. Indiana DNR has more than 50 properties open to the public where visitors can camp and watch the eclipse.

If you consider yourself a Hoosier, chances of getting a good view of the April 8 solar eclipse are pretty high.

However, timing plays a substantial role in witnessing this once-in-a-lifetime moment, and you don't want to miss it. Depending on your city, totality could happen anywhere from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. No matter where you live in Indiana, whether Fort Wayne, Bloomington or Indianapolis, we've got you covered.

When is the 2024 solar eclipse? Will I have cell service during 2024 solar eclipse? What to know about effects in Indiana

Here's what we know about eclipse times and durations in Indiana, all thanks to a recent interactive map from USA Today, allowing readers to search for eclipse times by zip code:

What time is the eclipse in Indianapolis?

In Indianapolis, the eclipse begins at 1:50 p.m. and concludes at 4:23 p.m. Totality is expected to last three minutes and 49 seconds, from 3:06 p.m. to 3:09 p.m., according to the interactive map.

What time is the eclipse in Anderson?

According to Eclipse2024.org, the partial eclipse begins at 1:51 p.m. in Anderson. Totality begins at 3:07 and will last three minutes and 42 seconds.

Heading south? When, where, and how long you can see the total solar eclipse in Kentucky

What time is the eclipse in Bloomington?

The eclipse begins at 1:49 p.m. and ends at 4:22 p.m., according to the City of Bloomington. Totality will last around four minutes, from 3:04 p.m. to 3:08 p.m.

What time is the eclipse in Carmel?

The eclipse starts at 1:50 p.m. in Carmel, with totality starting at 3:06 p.m. and lasting for three and a half minutes.

What time is the eclipse in Evansville?

Unlike most of Indiana, Evansville is on Central time. In Evansville, the eclipse starts at 12:46 p.m. and ends at 3:20 p.m., according to National Eclipse. Totality is a little over three minutes from 2:02 p.m. to 2:05 p.m.

What time is the solar eclipse in Fishers?

In Fishers, the eclipse starts at 1:51 p.m. Totality is over three and a half minutes, beginning at 3:06 p.m.

What time is the eclipse in Fort Wayne?

According to Visit Fort Wayne, the eclipse starts at 1:53 p.m. and ends at 4:24 p.m. The duration of the eclipse is about two minutes and 45 seconds, with maximum totality at 3:10 p.m.

What time is the eclipse in Greenwood?

In Greenwood, the eclipse begins at 1:50 p.m. Totality is almost four minutes, beginning at 3:05 p.m.

What time is the eclipse in Hammond?

Hammond is on Central time. The eclipse begins at 12:51 p.m. and ends at 3:23 p.m. Hammond will see a deep partial eclipse, at about 95% total.

What time is the eclipse in Kokomo?

In Kokomo, the eclipse starts at 1:51 p.m. Totality starts at 3:08 p.m., and lasts under a minute, according to the Kokomo Indiana Visitors Bureau.

What time is the eclipse in Lafayette?

The eclipse in Lafayette will be at about 82% totality and will be visible in the partial solar eclipse phase.

What time is the solar eclipse in Muncie?

In Muncie, the eclipse starts at 1:52 p.m. Totality starts at 3:07 p.m. for three minutes and 45 seconds.

What time is the eclipse in Noblesville?

The eclipse begins at 1:51 p.m. and ends at 3:23 p.m. Totality isn't visible in Noblesville but will reach it's maximum peak at 3:08 p.m.

What time is the eclipse in Terre Haute?

According to Visit Terre Haute, the eclipse begins at 1:47 p.m. and ends at 4:23 p.m. Totality is nearly three minutes and begins at 3:04 p.m.

What time is the solar eclipse in South Bend?

While a total eclipse won't be visible in South Bend, a partial solar eclipse can still be seen. The eclipse will reach a deep partial phase at around 96.6% magnitude at around 3:09 p.m.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Total solar eclipse 2024: What time is the eclipse on April 8? Find out
The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed Tuesday morning after a cargo ship crashed into the span. The 1.6-mile bridge carries Interstate 695 in Baltimore, Maryland, and crosses the Patapsco River. The collision was captured on a livestream, with traffic moving along the bridge and construction crews working on the structure.

Below is a timeline of events that occurred on March 26, 2024:

Dali, a large 948-foot-long container ship that would eventually collide with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, left port from Baltimore Harbor. The ship was headed on a month-long voyage to Colombo, Sri Lanka. Minutes before 1:30 a.m., Dali lost power; lights on the vessel flickered as it headed toward a support pillar of the bridge.

LIVE UPDATES: BALTIMORE BRIDGE COLLAPSE

1:25 a.m.  The Dali veers off course and starts heading toward one of the bridge's pillars, The Baltimore Banner reports, citing shiptracking data.

1:26 a.m.  The ship issued a mayday call . The emergency alert allowed police to stop additional vehicles from getting on the bridge before the collapse, according to FOX 5 Washington D.C.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

1:27 a.m.  In Maryland Transportation Authority Police dispatch audio, an officer could be heard saying "I need one of you guys on the south side, one of you guys on the north side, hold all traffic on the Key Bridge. There's a ship approaching that just lost their steering so until we get that under control, we've got to stop all traffic."

1:28 a.m.  Traveling around 9 mph, the ship struck a support pillar on the bridge. Within seconds, the structure crumbled and crashed into the river. Construction workers and vehicles working and traveling across the bridge plunged into the Patapsco River.

1:29 a.m. - An officer is heard saying in the police dispatch audio that "The whole bridge just fell down! Start whoever, everybody -- the whole bridge just collapsed!"

1:35 a.m.  Emergency crews in the Baltimore area were dispatched for what they believe is a partial bridge collapse.

1:50 a.m.  First responders arrived at the scene and reported a complete collapse of the bridge.

CONGRESS EXPECTED TO CONSIDER EMERGENCY SPENDING MEASURE TO REPLACE BALTIMORE BRIDGE AFTER COLLAPSE

1:59 a.m.  The Maryland Transportation Authority posted on social media that all lanes on I-695 are closed in both directions.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was built in 1977.

3 a.m.  First responders reported people in the water.

5:08 a.m.  U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced on social media that he offered the U.S. Department of Transportation's support.

6 a.m.  Maryland Gov. Wes Moore declared a State of Emergency and announced he was in contact with Buttigieg and other officials to obtain federal resources.

BIDEN SAYS HE TRAVELED MANY TIMES OVER VEHICLE-ONLY FRANCIS SCOTT KEY BRIDGE WHILE COMMUTING BY TRAIN OR CAR

Also around this time, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) arrived at the scene.

6:30 a.m.  Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace announced that two victims were rescued from the water, one of whom was in critical condition.

7:30 p.m.  The Coast Guard and Maryland State Police announced that search-and-rescue efforts for six construction workers were suspended. During a press conference, they said they do not believe the individuals will be found alive.

6 a.m. - Divers return to the area of the bridge collapse to look for the six missing construction workers, who are presumed dead.

8:03 a.m - Maryland Gov. Wes Moore tells Fox & Friends that he has met with the families of those still missing and says "We are going to spend every effort to make sure that we can bring them a sense of closure in this horrific incident." Moore adds that the divers are operating "in pitch dark, where they can literally see a foot or two in front of them."

Built in 1977, the Francis Scott Key Bridge has around 31,000 vehicles pass over it daily. The collapse will likely cause a temporary traffic delay for locals and the economy.

The Baltimore Port is a major route for vehicle shipments, farm and construction machinery, agricultural equipment and more. Cruise lines must also adjust their routes, as three major cruise lines sail from the Port of Baltimore to their destinations.

The complete impact of the bridge collapse is yet to be determined.

Fox News' Greg Norman contributed to this report.





Original article source: Timeline of the Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse
Assange faces further wait for appeal against extradition to U.S.

Xinhua) 08:32, March 27, 2024

Signs showing support for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange are seen in a protest outside the High Court in London, Britain, on March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

Assange's family and protesters have condemned the court's decision as an assault on press freedom and a shame on democracy.

LONDON, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Wikileaks founder Julian Assange faces a further wait to find out whether he can bring an appeal against his extradition to the United States, the High Court ruled on Tuesday.

According to the ruling, a decision on the appeal has been adjourned to May 20 as the court is seeking assurances from the United States that Assange could rely on the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and he would not be sentenced to death if convicted.

"If those assurances are not given, then leave to appeal will be given and there will then be an appeal hearing," a summary of the judgment said.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange's wife Stella Assange takes part in a protest outside the High Court in London, Britain, on March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

Speaking outside the High Court in London, Assange's wife Stella Assange said she is "astounded" by the court's decision to delay her husband's appeal.

"What the courts have done has been to invite a political intervention from the United States," she said. "I find this astounding."

Assange is "a political prisoner," she told supporters. "He is a journalist and he is being persecuted because he exposed the true cost of war in human lives."

His case is "a signal to all of you that if you expose the interests that are driving war they will come after you," Stella said as she urged the U.S. government not to submit assurances to the High Court and to drop "this shameful case."

"This is a shame on every democracy," she added.

Signs showing support for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange are seen in a protest outside the High Court in London, Britain, on March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

Dave Putson, a protester outside the High Court holding a banner that reads "Free Julian Assange," said the court's ruling is "a wrong decision."

"I think he should have been freed five years ago. I don't think he should be incarcerated at all," Putson told Xinhua.

Putson described the court's decision as an attack on freedom of the press. "He was exposing war crimes. He wasn't committing war crimes when he was releasing the WikiLeaks information, and he shouldn't be incarcerated for doing journalism."

The protests will continue, he said, "until we can actually get the result that we want and Julian Assange deserves, and press freedom deserves."

Supporters of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange take part in a protest outside the High Court in London, Britain, on March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

Michelle Stanistreet, general secretary of the British National Union of Journalists, said the risks to Assange and press freedom "remain stark," despite the delay to the High Court's ruling.

"Assange's prosecution by the United States is for activities that are daily work for investigative journalists -- finding sources with evidence of criminality and helping them to get their stories out into the world," she said. "If Assange is prosecuted, free expression the world over will be damaged."

Assange, 52, is wanted by the United States on allegations of disclosing national defense information following WikiLeaks's publication of hundreds of thousands of leaked military documents relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars a decade ago, which included an Apache helicopter video footage documenting the U.S. military gunning down Reuters journalists and children in Baghdad's streets in 2007.

He has been held at southeast London's high-security Belmarsh Prison since 2019. Britain approved his extradition to the United States in 2022 under then Home Secretary Priti Patel after a judge initially blocked it on Assange's mental health concerns. Assange and his lawyers have appealed since then.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange's wife Stella Assange (L) walks out of the High Court in London, Britain, on March 26, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Ying)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Students are seen at a computer lab in the Lukanda Secondary School in Kapiri Mposhi, central Zambia, March 15, 2024. (Photo by Lillian Banda/Xinhua)

LUSAKA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- In a world where technology is playing an increasingly important role in education, the introduction of technology studies in primary and secondary schools in Zambia has been a game-changer for young learners.

Since computers were incorporated into the primary and secondary school education system about a decade ago, children in Zambia have been able to access a wealth of resources and opportunities that were previously unavailable to them, enhancing their learning experience in numerous ways.

In Kapiri Mposhi, a town in central Zambia, students have benefited greatly from the introduction of computers into their classrooms. The availability of these technological resources has opened up a world of possibilities for these young learners, allowing them to engage with educational content in new and exciting ways.

"Access to computers has enabled me to understand different subjects better. I can do research for my various school projects, learn more and understand things better," said 15-year-old Hazel Kasolo, a student at Lukanda Secondary School.

Interactions with learners at Matilyo Primary School revealed that technology studies in general, and access to computers in particular, help children find learning more interactive, engaging and interesting.

"Things like animals and trees look better on a computer than on ordinary blackboards and charts," said Given Chanda, 11, a student at Matilyo Primary School.

Hellen Kasanda, a technology teacher at Matilyo Primary School, agreed that the introduction of computers has improved the learning experience for students.

"I have seen firsthand how students' confidence and engagement have grown as they learn to use computers for various school tasks," she said.

Principals at both Lukanda Secondary School and Matilyo Primary School have also observed the positive impact that access to computers has had on their students' educational experience.

"At Lukanda Secondary School, we have noticed a significant improvement in students' understanding of various subjects since the introduction of computers. They are able to explore concepts in ways that were not possible before, and this has contributed to a more dynamic and engaging learning environment," said Edward Kunda, head teacher at Lukanda Secondary School.

Similarly, Chinzila Mudenda, head teacher at Matilyo Primary School, noted that students are more motivated to engage in their studies when they can use computers as part of their learning process.

"The integration of computers has definitely had a positive impact on their academic performance and overall interest in learning," said Mudenda.

She further said as technology continues to play an increasingly significant role in the modern world, more support is needed to ensure that schools have enough computers for students to access. "The biggest challenge we have as a school is the very limited number of computers. Sometimes more than 10 students share one computer during computer classes."

Mudenda's concerns were echoed by her counterpart at Lukanda Secondary School, who added that lack of access to computers has the potential to prevent learners from acquiring future skills.

According to statistics from Zambia's National ICT Policy 2023, only 39.4 percent of the country's schools had computers, and 5.9 percent had access to the Internet as of 2020. 

A teacher and students from Matilyo Primary School participate in an outdoor activity in Kapiri Mposhi, central Zambia, March 15, 2024. (Photo by Lillian Banda/Xinhua)
The military personnel of the Territorial Recruitment Centers (TRCs) are part of the consolidated units and mobile firing groups that perform air defense tasks, the Poltava Oblast TRC wrote on Facebook on March 27.

The TRCs are an integral part of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. They are manned by soldiers who are unable to perform combat duties for health reasons. They can also be transferred to combat units.

Read also: Parliamentary committee retains mobilization deferment for graduate students

The TRC is composed of both civilian and military personnel. While the civilian personnel do not have uniforms or weapons, the soldiers do.

On Jan. 30, the government submitted the revised mobilization bill to parliament. It proposed lowering the draft age to 25 years, setting the demobilization term to 36 months, introducing voluntary mobilization for convicts, and establishing an electronic notification system for issuing draft notices.

On Feb. 7, the parliament supported the bill in its first reading.

Read also: Ukraine rules out mobilizing convicted traitors into its armed forces

The relevant parliamentary committee must now process over 4,000 amendments submitted by MPs, Ukraines parliamentary Defense Committee chair Oleksandr Zavitnevych said. This extensive process is necessary to ready the document for its second reading in parliament.

The second reading of the bill, including the amendments, could take place by the end of March, Defense Committee MP Fedir Venislavskyi said.



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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Uber is asking its Northern Kentucky drivers and customers to reject what it believes is a new 3% sales tax.

The recipient of that tax  an economic development group called BE NKY Growth Partnership  says the tax was enacted in 2022, with new legislative action this month aimed at clarifying who it applies to.

Either way, Uber has not been paying the 3% tax and is enlisting help to fight it.

Our drivers and our riders should not be targeted to support this agency, Javi Correoso, Uber director of public affairs, said of BE NKY. We just think its a step too far.

The San Francisco-based ride-share company urged its drivers  which it said numbers about 5,000 in the Greater Cincinnati area  to contact Kentucky legislators and ask them to reject the 3% tax. It made the same plea to Uber riders, declining to quantity that population for competitive reasons.

Correoso said Kentucky is practicing triple taxation  adding the 3% sales tax to a 6% tax created in 2022 along with a $3 surcharge on ride shares collected by Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport since 2015.

The 6% tax followed passage of House Bill 8, a spending measure that aimed to eliminate Kentuckys 5% individual income tax in the coming years. The state then created new taxes on certain services to make up for the loss of income tax.

Uber has paid "just north of $6.5 million" to Kentucky since the 6% tax took effect in January 2023, Correoso said.

The 3% tax that Uber opposes was part of the 2022 bill, according to BE NKY. The tax was originally created in 1994 as a motor vehicle license fee, with House Bill 8 broadening it to apply to ride-share operators among others.

Earlier this month, the Kentucky House of Representatives passed an amended version of the 2022 legislation 73-11 with the Senate passing it 36-1 on Monday. The legislation is now headed for a conference committee.

A 3% tax that is part of a Kentucky budget measure brings in "the lion's share" of revenue to BE NKY, a group focused on economic development in Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties, BE NKY President and CEO Lee Crume said. "It's very, very important to us."

The latest action cleans up language in the bill to make clear who the 3% applies to, said Lee Crume, BE NKY's executive director.

Now everybody should be on board, he said.

Crume said the motor vehicle license fee is essential to BE NKY, created as Northern Kentucky Tri-ED in 1987 to boost economic development in Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties and renamed in March 2023. The fee currently brings in about 67% of its $3.4 million in annual revenue, accounting for as much as 90% of its revenue in 2020.

Crume said Uber competitors Lyft and Turo have been paying the 3% since it was instituted. Theyve never called us one time to say this is unfair, he said.

Messages left for both operators were not immediately returned.

If Kentucky adopts an amended House Bill 8, Uber will pay the additional 3%, Correoso said.

"We will comply with the law but we also project this to negatively impact driver earnings in Northern Kentucky," he said.

He called the tax "counterproductive" for Northern Kentucky development.

"The message Mr. Crume is sending any business considering expanding in or to Northern Kentucky is clear: We are going to fund BE NKY ... by raising the cost of transportation for those who use Uber on a daily basis to get to work or move around the region."

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: What KY tax is Uber fighting?
BOAO, Hainan, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Guest speakers of a panel discussion on artificial intelligence (AI) at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 expressed optimism on the development prospects of AI while also urging efforts to beef up industry oversight.

The performance of the large language models, such as GPT-4, is extremely impressive, said Stuart Russell, a professor of electrical engineering and computer sciences at the University of California at Berkeley.

"It gives us a taste of what it would be like to live in a world where we could access intelligence on tap in the same way that we access electricity anytime you need," added Russell, who is also co-author of "Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach," which is considered the standard text in the field of AI.

According to the veteran AI researcher, there are still very significant gaps in this technology.

Since ChatGPT took the world by storm in late 2022, tech giants and startups worldwide have been rushing to join the AI race by launching similar AI chatbots as well as industrial applications based on large language models.

The AI fever has kindled high hopes that this technology will have the potential to transform people's lives and work through the content they generate, known as AI-generated content (AIGC). It also has fanned fear that AI could pose a threat to human beings in the future.

According to Zhang Yaqin, dean of the Institute for AI Industry Research at Tsinghua University, AI can generate not only texts, images and videos, but also a plethora of other content. "There is good news about change, but there are also some concerns about the risks that we have right now."

Expressing optimism about AI, Zhang said, "I think that there are two kinds of human wisdom. One wisdom is the wisdom of inventing new technologies, and the other is the wisdom of guiding technology toward wisdom."

He, however, stressed that governance should be in place while the industry is developing.

Spawning a large number of applications for industries and scientific research, the AI boom is driving the development of China's digital economy and reshaping the economic landscape.

Liu Cong, vice president of China's AI and intelligent speech giant iFLYTEK, said following the launch of its large language model, the company has launched a number of applications for specific industries, including the education and medical fields.

"The AI plus is very likely to offer us a great opportunity to develop new quality productive forces," Liu said, adding that its open innovation platform has attracted 370,000 developers for large models.

Speaking at the panel discussion, Frank Meng, Qualcomm China chairman, called for global and industry cooperation in terms of AI state governance, international collaboration, and standard setting that would allow universal use.

Russell called for healthy competition in the AI race. "This idea that it's a zero-sum game and one team is gonna win and the other team is gonna lose. This is a huge mistake." 
Former President Trump attacked Brian L. Roberts, the chair of NBCUniversals parent company Comcast, after it ousted former Republican National Committee (RNC) Chair Ronna McDaniel as a contributor to NBC News this week.

The sick degenerates over at MSDNC are really running NBC, and there seems nothing Chairman Brian Roberts can do about it, Trump wrote on his Truth Social website overnight Tuesday. Watching Chuck Todd, of all people, viciously giving Roberts a piece of his small mind, and then berating him for hiring Ronna without his, or the other lunatics, approval, was just a step too far.

McDaniel was fired by the network Tuesday after vocal protests from some of NBCs biggest anchors and hosts  and that of its left-leaning sister network MSNBC.

Todd, after McDaniel appeared for an interview on Meet The Press on Sunday, told moderator Kristen Welker executives at the company owed her an apology and attacked McDaniels credibility issues.

MSNBC host Rachel Maddow explicitly implored executives at NBC News to cut ties with McDaniel, citing her efforts to aid Trump.

McDaniel has come under fire for her comments on the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and role in Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election result.

In a note to staff announcing McDaniel would not be a contributor to NBC, NBCUniversal News Group Chair Cesar Conde said the previous decision to bring her aboard was made because of our deep commitment to presenting our audiences with a widely diverse set of viewpoints and experiences, particularly during these consequential times.

Trump earlier on Tuesday mocked McDaniel over the same news, saying she was fired by Fake News NBC. She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear.

The former president has for years routinely attacked NBC and MSNBC, the network he often refers to as MSDNC.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee for president, also recently suggested that if he is elected again this fall, he would investigate Comcast for treason.

Brians great father would have fired Chuck Todd, and all the rest of these losers, on the spot, Trump wrote Tuesday. Perhaps Brian still will. If I knew Ronna was going to troubled MSNBC, I would have advised her to change her name back to Romney, she would have had a better chance!

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
NEW YORK  Former President Trump plans to attend the wake for NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller, the hero cop who was gunned down Monday in Far Rockaway, police said Wednesday.

Trump has told NYPD officials that he will attend the emotional tribute to Diller that is planned for the Massapequa Funeral Home on Long Island Thursday evening.

The 2024 Republican presidential candidate posted a tribute to Diller Tuesday on his social media site.

To Officer Dillers family, and all of the other brave men and women of law enforcement who put your lives on the line every day, we love you, we appreciate you, and we will always stand with you! Trump wrote.

Trump, who frequently bemoans crime in big cities that are led by Democrats, said Guy Rivera, one of the two ex-cons charged in Dillers killing, should never have been freleased from prison on parole.

The thug in question has 21 prior arrests and just recently got out of prison  he NEVER should have been let back out on the streets, Trump wrote.

Mayor Adams is also expected to attend the wake for Diller, along with cops from the NYPD and other law enforcement agencies. Its not clear if Adams and Trump might meet at the wake.

Trump correctly cited Riveras rap sheet. He has been arrested by the NYPD 21 times, including nine felonies, police sources said.

But Rivera had avoided arrest since being freed from prison three years ago until the shootout that killed Diller.

The second accused killer, Lindy Jones, had served more than nine years in prison on attempted murder and robbery charges, records show.

He was paroled in 2013 and had avoided arrest since then.

The two career criminals were sitting in an illegally parked Kia when Diller and his partner approached the vehicle to investigate.
FILE PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump at his Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach

By Nathan Layne and Tim Reid

(Reuters) - Former U.S. President Donald Trump is planning to attend the wake on Thursday for a New York Police Department officer who was gunned down during a traffic stop earlier this week in a killing that drew national attention.

Trump, the 2024 Republican presidential candidate, has made support for law enforcement a focal point of his campaign to defeat Democratic President Joe Biden in November's election, set to be a close, deeply divisive contest.

"President Trump is moved by the invitation to join NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller's family and colleagues as they deal with his senseless and tragic death," Trump campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said in a statement.

The NYPD did not immediately respond to a request for comment and confirmation of Trumps attendance at the wake, due to be held in Massapequa on Long Island, east of New York City.

Diller, a three-year veteran of the force, was fatally shot below his bullet-resistant vest during a traffic stop on Monday in the New York borough of Queens. Two suspects have been taken into custody, according to media reports.

During his campaign rallies, Trump often seeks to portray crime as out of control in the U.S. and to pin the blame for that on Biden, even as data shows violent crime in the nation is at one of the lowest rates in decades.

Trump, who is facing four criminal trials as he seeks the presidency, peppers his campaign speeches with promises to restore "law and order" and to bolster protections for officers facing litigation for their conduct on the job.

At the same time, he frequently attacks New York state Attorney General Letitia James for bringing a civil fraud case against him, Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, for prosecuting him over alleged hush money payments to a porn star, and other prosecutors for cases against him.

Trump posted a tribute to Diller, 31, on his Truth Social platform on Tuesday.

"To Officer Dillers family, and all of the other brave men and women of law enforcement who put your lives on the line every day, we love you, we appreciate you, and we will always stand with you!" Trump said in the post.

(Reporting by Nathan Layne in Wilton, Connecticut and Tim Reid in Washington; Editing by Colleen Jenkins)
Donald Trumps bitter attacks on the daughter of a judge presiding over the former presidents upcoming criminal hush-money trial have no basis in fact, a spokesperson for the New York Office of Court Administration told The Daily Beast Wednesday evening.

Less than a day after Judge Juan Merchan issued a limited gag order barring the former president from lashing out publicly at prosecutors, court staff, and any of their family members, Trump posted an unhinged screed targeting both Merchan and his 34-year-old daughterreferencing an alleged X postformerly Twittershe made showing him behind bars.

Judge Juan Merchan, who is suffering from an acute case of Trump Derangement Syndrome (whose daughter represents Crooked Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Adam Shifty Schiff, and other Radical Liberals, has just posted a picture of me behind bars, her obvious goal, and makes it completely impossible for me to get a fair trial) has now issued another illegal, un-American, unConstitutional order, as he continues to try and take away my Rights, Trump posted Wednesday morning on Truth Social, the social media clone he started after being kicked off the microblogging site for inciting violence.

The only problem, OCA spokesperson Al Baker said, is that the account in question does not belong to Judge Merchans daughter.

The X, formerly Twitter, account being attributed to Judge Merchans daughter no longer belongs to her since she deleted it approximately a year ago, he said. It is not linked to her email address, nor has she posted under that screenname since she deleted the account.

Rather, it represents the reconstitution, last April, and manipulation of an account she long ago abandoned.

After his initial post, Trump immediately followed up with Page 2 of his incendiary, misleading screed, writing, So, let me get this straight, the Judges daughter is allowed to post pictures of her dream of putting me in jail, the Manhattan D.A. is able to say whatever lies about me he wants, the Judge can violate our Laws and Constitution at every turn, but I am not allowed to talk about the attacks against me, and the Lunatics trying to destroy my life, and prevent me from winning the 2024 Presidential Election, which I am dominating? Maybe the Judge is such a hater because his daughter makes money by working to Get Trump, and when he rules against me over and over again, he is making her company, and her, richer and richer. How can this be allowed?

Merchans daughter is the president of a political consulting firm that has worked for Democratic candidates. Merchan and others have been inundated with death threats since Trump was charged.

Trump, who is facing a total of four criminal trials, has tried to postpone them all until after the November 2024 election. In the case being overseen by Merchan, Trump faces a 34-count indictment charging him with falsifying business records over a $130,000 hush-money payment hes accused of directing attorney/fixer Michael Cohen to make to adult film star Stormy Daniels shortly before the 2016 presidential election in an attempt to hide their alleged sexual encounter. Trump has pleaded not guilty to the charges and continues to claim he never had sex with Daniels.

Trumps lawyers have argued their client, as the presumptive Republican nominee and Ieading candidate in the 2024 election must have unfettered access to the voting public to respond to attacks from political opponents and to criticize these public figures.

However, Merchan wrote in his decision on Tuesday, Trumps extrajudicial statements went far beyond defending himself against attacks by public figures. The onetime commander-in-chiefs claims were threatening, inflammatory, [and] denigrating, and targeted everyone from local and federal officials to court staff and private individuals including grand jurors performing their civic duty.

The consequences of those statements included not only fear on the part of the individual targeted, but also the assignment of increased security resources to investigate threats and protect the individuals and family members thereof, Merchan wrote.

Merchans gag order is purposely tailored to protect Trumps First Amendment rights and does not specifically forbid the ex-POTUS from saying whatever he pleases about Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, Merchan, or their families.

Merchan, up to this point, has given Trump an astonishing amount of wiggle room, saying at Trumps April 2023 arraignment, Im bending over backwards and straining to make sure that he is given every opportunity possible to advance his candidacy and to be able to speak in furtherance of his candidacy.

On Tuesday morning, before Merchan handed down the gag order, Trump took aim at the judge as biased against him while simultaneously complimenting his appearance.

Judge Juan Merchan, a very distinguished looking man, is nevertheless a true and certified Trump Hater who suffers from a very serious case of Trump Derangement Syndrome, Trump posted online. In other words, he hates me! His daughter is a senior executive at a Super Liberal Democrat firm that works for Adam Shifty Schiff, the Democrat National Committee, (Dem) Senate Majority PAC, and even Crooked Joe Biden. He was recently the judge on an unrelated trial of a long term employee, elderly and not in good health. This judge treated him viciously, telling him either you cooperate or Im putting you in jail for 15 years. He pled, and went to jail for very minor offenses, highly unusual, served 4 months in Rikers, and now they are after him again, this time for allegedly lying (doesnt look like a lie to me!), and they threatened him again with 15 years if he doesnt say something bad about TRUMP. He is devastated and scared! These COUNTRY DESTROYING SCOUNDRELS & THUGS HAVE NO CASE AGAINST ME. WITCH HUNT!

He posted again a short time later, claiming, without a shred of evidence, that Bragg brought charges against him in close coordination with Crooked Joe Bidens people/campaign. Trump called the case ridiculous, calling star witness and former Trump fixer Michael Cohen a convicted LIAR and FELON, and prosecutor Mark Pomerantz a dirtbag lawyer.

JUDGE MERCHAN SHOULD RECUSE HIMSELF, HE CANNOT GIVE ME A FAIR TRIAL, Trumps post continued. Likewise, for the sake of fairness, this Political Opponent trial should take place in Staten Island, with a new and unbiased judge. The trial should not be allowed to start in the middle of my campaign for President. They could have filed more than three years ago - THEY WAITED! THIS IS ANOTHER WITCH HUNT FOR PURPOSES OF ELECTION INTERFERENCE!!!

If Trump is found to be in violation of the gag order, he could be held in contempt of court and either fined or jailed. A court spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Former President Trumps courtroom campaign is set to take center stage in his bid for the White House after a New York judge set an April 15 start date for a trial over an alleged hush money scheme.

Trump and his allies have for the past year sought to turn outrage over his legal troubles into enthusiasm among his supporters, describing the myriad investigations and charges over his conduct as election interference from Democrats worried about beating him at the ballot box.

But now that the GOP primary is over and Trump is actually set to go on trial, hell face a fresh set of hurdles in competing with President Bidens campaign. Barring further delay, Trump will be in a courtroom in Manhattan four days a week beginning April 15, with the trial expected to last several weeks.

The former president has kept a light public schedule since he became the presumptive Republican nominee earlier this month even as general election polls have tightened, and his ability to hit the road could be further hampered by his upcoming court dates.

Trump will likely hold rallies in battleground states on the weekends, but Trump is also expected to turn the courthouse itself into a bully pulpit for his campaign. That strategy was on display at Mondays hearing, where Trump addressed reporters during breaks in the proceedings to decry the charges against him as a hoax and a witch hunt before holding a press conference at one of his nearby properties.

Joe Biden and the Democrats entire strategy to defeat President Trump is to confine him to a court room, Karoline Leavitt, a Trump campaign spokesperson, said in a statement. Unfortunately for them, their strategy is failing and Joe Biden is losing because the American people see right through their communist tactics and know President Trump is the strongest candidate to lead our country.

President Trump will continue to fight for truth in the court room and share his winning message on the campaign trail, she added.

The lost time on the trail could be critical for Trump, whose lead over Biden in the polls has narrowed in recent weeks ahead of what both campaigns expect will be a closely fought general election.

A Bloomberg/Morning Consult poll showed Biden narrowing Trumps lead in six out of seven battleground states likely to decide Novembers election, including in Wisconsin, where Biden pulled ahead by 1 percentage point, and in Michigan and Pennsylvania, where the two candidates are even.

While Trump has only traveled to Ohio in recent weeks for a rally ahead of the states competitive Senate primary, Biden has visited every major battleground state in the month of March.

Trump is also at a major cash disadvantage compared to the Biden campaign. Trumps operation brought in roughly $20 million in February, while the Biden campaign raised about $53 million. Bidens campaign also boasts a major advantage in cash on hand, while Trump continues to put huge sums toward paying his legal costs.

The former president is no stranger to using the courthouse and legal troubles as a springboard for his 2024 campaign. His lead in the polls in the Republican primary steadily grew throughout 2023, even as he faced fresh indictments in New York City, Florida, Washington, D.C., and Georgia.

Trump successfully fundraised off of his mug shot at the Fulton County Courthouse in Georgia, and his various court appearances earned him significant media coverage, including across networks that have largely stopped airing his campaign speeches.

A typical candidate wouldnt cherish a court appearance in the middle of their presidential bid, but Donald Trump isnt a typical candidate, said Dan Eberhart, a Republican donor who initially backed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) but has since urged the party to unite behind Trump.

Voters are long past being surprised by anything that happens around Trump, Eberhart added. Theres no longer an October surprise in Trump world. His supporters know who Trump is, and I cant think of much that he could do to change that.

Trump and his allies are counting on the fact that his legal troubles will solidify his support among the Republican base, and even win over more moderate voters who view the charges against Trump as politically motivated.

The former president, asked Monday if he worried a conviction in New York City could tank his reelection bid, suggested it could make him more popular because the people know its a scam.

Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a contender to join Trump on the ticket as his running mate, said Monday on Fox News that he wasnt surprised Trumps legal troubles continue to fuel his White House bid.

If you are a red-blooded American and you believe in fairness, you believe in justice, you believe that America must be the fairest nation on the planet  when you see this level of injustice, you are disgusted by it and you will rally to the cause of the underdog, Scott said.

But there is reason for skepticism that Trumps courtroom campaign will have the positive effect the former president and his allies are expecting.

A Politico/Ipsos poll conducted March 8-10 found 50 percent of respondents believe Trump is guilty of the alleged crimes in the Manhattan case, and 36 percent of independents said a conviction in the case would make them less likely to support Trump.

Trump is charged in the New York case with 34 counts of falsifying business records of reimbursements to his then-fixer, Michael Cohen, who paid porn actress Stormy Daniels $130,000 just before the 2016 election to stay quiet about an alleged affair with Trump.

Exit polling from Super Tuesday earlier this month found 37 percent of GOP primary voters in Virginia and 31 percent of primary voters in North Carolina said Trump would not be fit to be president if hes convicted of a crime.

Theres this myth out there that somehow these trials are going to win him over more voters and theres going to be sympathy, Alyssa Farah Griffin, who worked as Trumps White House communications director, said Tuesday on The View.

I reject that as a Republican because yes, his base is going to be with him and theyre going to vocally defend him, she continued. But to this sort of 30 percent, call them the Nikki Haley voters or the somebody other than Trump Republicans, there is no way that hush money payments to Stormy Daniels or this fraud case in New York are going to make them more sympathetic to him. I find it to just be complete lunacy.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former President Donald Trump and several of his co-defendants charged in the Georgia election interference case submit an application to appeal Judge Scott McAfees ruling allowing Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis to continue to prosecute them. The filing calls McAfees ruling a legal error. Here are the latest legal developments involving the presumptive Republican presidential nominee for 2024.

Georgia election interference

Trump and several co-defendants appeal judges decision on Willis

Key players: Trump co-defendants Rudy Giuliani, Mark Meadows, Jeffrey Clark, Robert Cheeley, Michael Roman, David Shafer, Harrison Floyd and Cathy Latham, Judge Scott McAfee, former lead prosecutor Nathan Wade, Georgia Court of Appeals

Lawyers for Trump and several of his co-defendants submitted a formal application to appeal McAfees ruling that allowed Willis to continue to try the case against them on the condition that Wade step down, the Associated Press reported.

The filing with the Georgia Court of Appeals states that McAfee erred as a matter of law when he did not disqualify Willis from handling the case.

This legal error requires the Courts immediate review, the filing states.

Earlier this month, after holding hearings on whether to dismiss Willis due to conflict of interest claims brought by Trump and his co-defendants, McAfee issued a blistering ruling that criticized Willis and Wade for their tremendous lapse in judgment regarding their romantic relationship.

But he added that Georgia law does not permit the finding of an actual conflict for simply making bad choices  even repeatedly.

McAfee allowed the defendants to appeal his decision, but has also made clear that the appeal would not impede the court from moving forward with the election interference and racketeering case.

Why it matters: Trumps lawyers have shown repeatedly that they will vigorously pursue each and every line of defense available in the criminal and civil cases brought against the former president. Though Wade stepped down from the Georgia case, Willis, who is asking McAfee to begin the trial in Fulton County well before the 2024 election, is far from in the clear.

Recommended reading

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Thursday, March 28

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Prosecutors who have charged former President Donald Trump with election interference and racketeering relating to his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election in Georgia tell Judge Scott McAfee that the First Amendment does not protect him from prosecution in the case. Trumps lawyers tell the judge that contesting election results is protected by the Constitution, but Fulton County prosecutor Donald Wakeford counters that each of the 10 felony counts Trump faces was employed as part of criminal activity with criminal intentions. Here are the latest legal developments involving the presumptive Republican presidential nominee for 2024.

Georgia election interference

Trumps lawyers, prosecutors spar over First Amendment protections

Key players: Judge Scott McAfee, Fulton County prosecutor Donald Wakeford, Trump lawyer Steve Sadow, former Georgia Republican Party chairman David Shafer, Shafers lawyer Craig Gillen, pro-Trump lawyers Kenneth Chesebro and Sidney Powell, Judge Tanya Chutkan

McAfee heard arguments Thursday on whether the charges in Georgia against Trump should be dropped because they violate his First Amendment rights, ABC News reported.

Trump is charged with conspiring to overturn his 2020 election loss to Joe Biden in Georgia, a contest that he continues to claim was rigged despite a lack of evidence to support that assertion.

What do we have here? Sadow added. We have election speech, which is 'protected' from government restriction."

Wakeford countered: Its not that the defendant has been hauled into a courtroom because the prosecution doesnt like what he said. He is free to make statements and to file lawsuits and to make other legitimate protests. What he is not allowed to do is employ his speech and his expression, and his statements as part of a criminal conspiracy to violate Georgias RICO statute.

McAfee did not issue a ruling on the question, but has previously denied similar motions to dismiss from Chesebro and Powell, both of whom have since pleaded guilty in the case.

In the federal election interference case, Chutkan has already ruled that the First Amendment doesnt protect Trump from being prosecuted for seeking to overturn the 2020 contest.

Gillen argued that the charges against Shafer should be dropped because he was simply attempting to comply with the advice of legal counsel when he posed as an official state elector to challenge Bidens victory.

Gillen also sought to have the term fake elector stricken from the indictment against his client.

Why it matters: McAfee didnt offer many indications Thursday on how he might rule on the motions to dismiss the charges against Trump and Shafer. Given his prior rulings  and Chutkans  most legal experts see them as a long shot.

Recommended reading

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Wednesday, March 27

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Judge Scott McAfee will hear arguments Thursday on motions brought by former President Donald Trump and former Georgia Republican Party chairman David Shafer seeking to have the charges on the election interference case dismissed. This is the first hearing since McAfee ruled that Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis could continue to prosecute the case against Trump so long as lead prosecutor Nathan Wade stepped aside.

Here are the latest legal developments involving the presumptive Republican presidential nominee for 2024.

Georgia election interference

Key players: Judge Scott McAfee, former Georgia Republican Party chairman and Trump co-defendant David Shafer, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, former lead prosecutor Nathan Wade

On Thursday, McAfee will hear arguments on motions filed by Trump and Shafer seeking dismissal of more charges. The hearing is the first since McAfee ruled that Willis could remain on the case as long as Wade stepped aside.

Trumps motion asks the court to dismiss the charges against him on the grounds that they violate his First Amendment rights. Similar motions by other co-defendants have been unsuccessful.

Shafer is asking McAfee to dismiss all of the eight felony charges against him stemming from his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, saying he was simply following the advice of his legal counsel when he sought to line up an alternate slate of state electors.

Earlier this month, McAfee, citing a lack of detail, tossed six of the criminal counts. Trump now faces 10 felony counts instead of 13, but McAfee said Willis could add information and go back to a grand jury to try to have the charges restored.

Following McAfees ruling on the defendants' motion to have Willis removed from the case, Wade stepped aside.

Thursdays hearing will be livestreamed beginning at 10 a.m. ET.

Why it matters: While McAfee has allowed Trump and his co-defendants to appeal his ruling on Willis, he has also made clear that he will push forward with the case in the meantime. Willis plans to ask McAfee to schedule the start of the trial this summer, CNN reported. If McAfee agrees, that could mean that a jury could still come to a verdict before the 2024 presidential election.

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Tuesday, March 26

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Judge Juan Merchan slaps a gag order on former President Donald Trump that prevents him from making public statements about witnesses, prosecutors, court staff and jurors in his hush-money criminal trial, which is set to begin on April 15. The gag order comes just hours after Trump attacked Merchan and his daughter in a social media post. Here are the latest legal developments involving the presumptive Republican presidential nominee for 2024.

New York hush money

Judge hits Trump with gag order

Key players: Judge Juan Merchan, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg

On Tuesday, Merchan sided with Bragg, issuing a gag order on Trump that is designed to prevent him from making or directing others to make public statements about witnesses in the hush money trial, court staff, prosecutors, jurors or their family members, the Associated Press reported.

Merchan limited the gag order to statements made with the intent to materially interfere with, or to cause others to materially interfere with, counsel's or staff's work in this criminal case, or with the knowledge that such interference is likely to result.

Hours before Merchan issued the gag order, Trump attacked him and his daughter in a social media post.

Judge Juan Merchan, a very distinguished looking man, is nevertheless a true and certified Trump Hater who suffers from a very serious case of Trump Derangement Syndrome, Trump wrote. In other words, he hates me!

Trump also wrote that His daughter is a senior executive at a Super Liberal Democrat firm that works for Adam Shifty Schiff, the Democrat National Committee, (Dem)Senate Majority PAC, and even Crooked Joe Biden.

Merchans gag order, which comes one day after the judge set an April 15 start date for the hush money trial, does not prevent Trump from commenting on him or Bragg in general.

Why it matters: Merchan will oversee the first-ever criminal trial of a former president of the United States. While Trumps lawyers have successfully delayed the start of all of the four criminal trials in which he is charged with felony counts, the hush money case is the only one certain to be heard by a jury prior to the 2024 election.

__________________________

Monday, March 25

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A New York appeals court on Monday lowers the bond amount that former President Donald Trump must pay as he appeals the $464 million judgment in his civil fraud trial, saying he can put up just $175 million within 10 days. The 11th-hour deal temporarily prevents New York Attorney General Letitia James from moving to seize Trumps assets. In Trumps hush money trial, Judge Juan Merchan says jury selection can begin on April 15. Here are the latest legal developments involving the presumptive Republican presidential nominee for 2024.

New York financial fraud

Appeals court rules in favor of Trump hours before bond deadline

Key players: Trump, New York Attorney General Letitia James, Judge Arthur Engoron

On Monday, a New York appeals court lowered the bond amount Trump and his co-defendants must pay in order to appeal Engorons $464 million judgment in his civil fraud trail to just $175 million, Semafor reported.

The appeals court also gave Trump 10 days to pay that sum.

Speaking to reporters outside a hearing in his criminal hush money case in Manhattan, Trump said he would do so very quickly.

I greatly respect the decision of the appellate division, he said. And I'll post either $175 million in cash or bonds or security or whatever is necessary very quickly within the 10 days.

James had begun clearing the way to seize some of Trumps assets in order to secure the full bond amount.

Why it matters: Trumps lawyers had argued that the original bond amount, which included interest, was excessive. They also told the court that 30 lenders had refused to give them a loan to cover the $464 million bond. This ruling buys Trump more time, and could keep James from freezing his bank accounts and seizing his assets.

Hush money case

Judge sets April 15 start date for Trumps hush money trial

Key players: Judge Juan Merchan, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, adult film actress Stormy Daniels, former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen

With Trump looking on in court on Monday, Merchan ruled that the hush money trial could begin jury selection on April 15, the Daily Beast reported.

The trial had previously been scheduled to begin on March 25, but Merchan delayed it until April 15 after federal prosecutors submitted new evidence stemming from their investigation of Trumps ties to Russia during the 2016 election.

Merchan ruled Monday that the newly disclosed documents did not have any bearing on the hush money case, which will decide whether Trump broke New York campaign finance and tax laws when he paid Daniels $130,000 in 2016 to hide an alleged extramarital affair.

Trumps lawyers had sought to have the case dismissed or to have it postponed so that they could have more time to review the newly disclosed documents.

The defendant has been given a reasonable amount of time to prepare, Merchan said.

Why it matters: Trumps lawyers have skillfully delayed all of the criminal trials facing the former president. But Mondays ruling could mean that that streak is coming to an end.

With reporting from Dylan Stableford
Donald Trump meets with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Russian Ambassador to the U.S. Sergei Kislyak at the White House in 2017. via Associated Press

WASHINGTON  Facing multiple criminal prosecutions and over a half billion dollars in civil judgments, private citizen Donald Trump would almost certainly be denied even the lowest level security clearance, were he to apply.

If he wins the November presidential election, though, he would immediately regain access to the nations most sensitive secrets  his financial and legal woes notwithstanding.

Anyone who would grant Donald Trump a security clearance ought to have his or her clearance revoked, said George Conway, a conservative lawyer and prominent Trump critic.

Such is the paradox of U.S. intelligence protocols: A person needing access to diplomatic or military secrets must undergo a rigorous background investigation into personal finances and behavior that can take upwards of a year to complete. Unless that person is elected president, in which case all of that screening goes right out the window.

The will of a majority of the voters overrules whatever objections intelligence community professionals might have, and a president has lawful access to every classified, secret or top-secret piece of information the nation possesses.

This would be true even for Trump, who is currently being prosecuted for his refusal to turn over secret documents he took with him to his South Florida country club after leaving the White House. Among the charges against him are alleged violations of the Espionage Act.

If hes president, hes got full on access to whatever he wants, said Ty Cobb, a lawyer who worked in Trumps White House. Theres no legal way to prevent it.

Indeed, of the nine factors that the U.S. government says are evaluated during a security clearance investigation  drug involvement, criminal conduct, financial considerations, use of information technology systems, United States allegiance, foreign influence, alcohol consumption, psychological conditions and personal behavior and handling protected information  Trump would likely have problems with five of them, a majority.

The United States already underwent a version of this in 2016. Trump had had multiple bankruptcies, had done business with Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp in a hotel deal in Azerbaijan, and had been pursuing a high-rise project in Moscow right through the presidential campaign.

He would have had a tough time getting a security clearance in 2016. Between his checkered financial history, his infamous Russia, if youre listening comment, [and] his associates dubious foreign connections, such as his campaign manager Paul Manafort passing information to Konstantin Kilimnik, said Norm Eisen, a former White House lawyer. Eisen held a security clearance both for that job and when he served as ambassador to the Czech Republic, both under President Barack Obama.

Trumps lack of interest in abiding by operational security standards became clear within four months of his taking office. On May 10, 2017, in a meeting with the Russian foreign minister and ambassador, Trump boasted about U.S. intelligence capabilities  and in the process revealed that Israel had sources within the Islamic State terror group.

Two years later, Trump posted to his social media account a photo of an Iranian launch site that had suffered an explosion  and in so doing revealed the capabilities of U.S. photo reconnaissance satellites.

Trump even ordered staff to give son-in-law Jared Kushner a top-secret clearance, despite his failure to pass the normal review process.

Yet however dangerous it was to give Trump access to secret material in 2016, experts like Eisen warn, it would be far worse today, when Trump has four separate, active criminal prosecutions against him and is in even worse financial condition  to the point where hes selling branded sneakers and Bibles. Recently, he flipped position regarding whether to ban the Chinese-owned app TikTok after meeting with an American investor in the company who is also a major Republican donor.

If he were being vetted as a normal applicant for access, there would be numerous red flags. Extensive overseas financial assets, extensive foreign contacts, massive civil judgments, the Trump Organization criminal tax conviction, etc., said Bradley Moss, a lawyer who holds a top clearance to help his clients on national security issues.

Whoever was processing his SF 86 would look at it and say: not this guy, said political consultant and Trump critic Rick Wilson, who held security clearances as a Pentagon employee, referring to the exhaustive form applicants must fill out. Donald Trump could never, ever under any circumstances, be granted even a secret clearance, given his ties to foreign money, his financial difficulties, and multiple legal issues.

John Gartner, a clinical psychologist who for years has been warning about Trumps symptoms of malignant narcissism and, more recently, about signs of potential dementia, said that if substantiated, either condition would be problematic for a normal security clearance applicant.

They take personality disorders extremely seriously, Gartner said, adding that Trump of late has exhibited symptoms that, he thinks, suggest the former president is having trouble thinking and speaking. I imagine that would be absolutely disqualifying.

Trumps campaign would not comment about the factors that would prevent Trump from getting a security clearance on his own  except for the allegation that Trump may be suffering from dementia. The campaign claimed that President Joe Biden, not Trump, is the one suffering dementia and demanded that Biden take a cognitive screening test that Trump has taken twice and aced both times. In fact, President Trump believes all presidents should take the test, Trump campaign senior adviser Jason Miller said.

After Trumps coup attempt to remain in office despite losing reelection, which culminated in an assault on the Capitol by a mob of his followers, Biden declined to grant Trump security clearance. Its a courtesy presidents have traditionally offered to their predecessors, with the idea that a recent ex-president could provide useful counsel on White House matters.

The question of Trumps future security clearance will come to the fore anew after Trump is formally adopted as the Republican Partys nominee at the summer convention. Typically, major party nominees are given intelligence briefings as a way to prepare them for potential crises should they win the White House.

After all that has happened since with the criminal prosecution, the civil verdicts, the additional financial exposure, and the expressions of admiration for foreign adversaries, no, he would not be able to get a security clearance today, Eisen said. Should he be elected, he would instantly become one of Americas greatest national security threats  perhaps the greatest.

Of Trumps four criminal cases, two are based on his actions leading up to Jan. 6.

A federal indictment could go to trial as early as late August, depending on how quickly the Supreme Court rules on Trumps claim that he is immune from prosecution. A Georgia case based on his attempt to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in that state could also start later this year.

A New York state prosecution on charges that Trump falsified business records to hide hush money payments in the days before the 2016 election is to begin on April 15, while a second federal prosecution on the secret documents has not had a trial date set.

In 2023, a New York jury found that Trump had sexually penetrated Carroll against her will in an incident in the 1990s, finding him civilly liable for sexual abuse. The federal judge in the case later clarified that Trumps actions were rape in the common modern parlance.

Related...
Less than 24 hours after getting hit with a partial gag order in the New York criminal case involving his alleged falsification of business records, former President Donald Trump repeatedly lashed out at one person who's not covered by the ruling  the judge.

On his social media platform, Trump called Judge Juan Merchan biased and conflicted while also taking aim at the judges daughter for a social media post that a court spokesperson said was wrongly attributed to her.

In a ruling Tuesday, Merchan noted the impending April 15 trial date and said Trump must "refrain" from making or directing others to make public statements about known or reasonably foreseeable witnesses concerning their potential participation in the case, as well as about individual prosecutors and court staff and their family members.

The order did not mention the judge and his family members  a loophole Trump exploited Wednesday.

"This Judge, by issuing a vicious 'Gag Order,' is wrongfully attempting to deprive me of my First Amendment Right to speak out against the Weaponization of Law Enforcement," Trump wrote, saying the judge "is suffering from an acute case of Trump Derangement Syndrome" and should recuse himself from the case.

Donald Trump at New York Criminal Court (Justin Lane / Pool via AP)

The attacks continue a pattern of Trump lashing out at judges and the judicial system on social media after getting an adverse ruling in court.

As he'd done previously, Trump also went after Merchan's daughter, who's worked at a progressive digital marketing agency that has worked for many Democratic candidates.

"Maybe the Judge is such a hater because his daughter makes money by working to 'Get Trump,'" one of his posts said. He also accused her of having posted a picture of him behind bars on social media an allegation that appears to have originated from a Trump ally, far right activist and conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer, who'd tweeted out the picture.

In a statement Wednesday night, Al Baker, a spokesman for the state court system, said the X account that had been attributed to Merchan's daughter was not hers. Baker said the account "no longer belongs to her since she deleted it approximately a year ago. It is not linked to her email address, nor has she posted under that screenname since she deleted the account."

The handle used in the X profile highlighted by Loomer had been previously associated with Merchans daughter in 2022, but the profile Loomer shared said the person joined X in April of 2023, the same month far right news outlets wrote critical stories about the daughter.

Baker said that someone apparently recreated a version of the account that month, which he called the "manipulation of an account she long ago abandoned."

Loomer also made an allegation last year involving the wife of Judge Arthur Engoron, who presided over Trump's civil fraud trial, accusing her of having shared anti-Trump memes on social media.

Trump then attacked the judge's wife, who was not protected by the partial gag order Engoron had put in place in that case.

Baker said then that the posts Loomer promoted were not from the judge's wife.

Justice Engorons wife has sent no social media posts regarding the former president. They are not hers, Baker said.

Trump never acknowledged or apologized for the apparent false accusation.

A representative for Trump did not immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday night on Baker saying the X account that had been attributed to Merchans daughter wasn't hers.

An NBC News analysis earlier this year of Trump's posts on his social media platform Truth Social found his unprecedented attacks on the judicial system were frequently tied to developments in his court cases, and at times outnumbered his posts about his re-election bid.

Trump's criticism often comes at a cost for his targets. Merchan, Engoron and the judge presiding over his federal election interference case in Washington, D.C., Tanya Chutkan, have all received threats following Trump's complaints.

Merchan cited his experience when he handed down his ruling Tuesday blocking Trump from making comments about individual prosecutors (with the exception of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg), court staff members, their family members and jurors and potential jurors.

While he didn't initially issue an order at the start of the case, the judge said he was acting now given the nature and impact of the statements made against this Court and a family member, as well as prosecutors and witnesses, and given that the eve of trial is upon us, it is without question that the imminency of the risk of harm is now paramount.

Trumps attorneys had argued in court filings that because their client is the presumptive Republican nominee for president he must have unfettered access to the voting public to respond to attacks from political opponents.

Merchan said in his ruling that Trumps public commentary in this case and others had gone far beyond defending himself against attacks.

"Indeed, his statements were threatening, inflammatory" and "denigrating," and the "consequences of those statements included not only fear on the part of the individual targeted, but also the assignment of increased security resources to investigate threats and protect the individuals and family members thereof," the judge wrote.

The DA's case alleges Trump falsified business records to cover up payments he was making to his then-lawyer Michael Cohen as repayment for a $130,000 hush money payment Cohen had doled out to adult film star Stormy Daniels in the closing days of the 2016 campaign. Daniels claimed she had a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006, which Trump denies.

Trump has pleaded not guilty in the case and maintains the charges are part of a politically orchestrated witch hunt against him.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Donald Trump isnt too happy that Judge Juan Merchan rejected his legal teams efforts to further delay his hush-money trial in New York. Merchan instead scheduled the trial to begin April 15, prompting the former president to attack him mercilessly in a post-hearing press conference on Monday. The next day, Trump went after Merchans daughter, calling her a Super Liberal Democrat in an effort to demonstrate that her father is biased against him.

Merchan imposed a gag order on Trump a few hours later, although it only applies to witnesses, prosecutors, court staff, and jurors. Trump was also gagged during his civil fraud trial in New York, and is now trying to appeal a $355 million judgement Judge Arthur Engoron handed down last month.

Trump responded to the latest gag order on Wednesday, taking full advantage of the fact that it does not prohibit him from going after Merchan  or his family. He wrote on Truth Social that Merchan is suffering from an acute case of Trump Derangement Syndrome, and that the gag order is illegal, un-American, and unConstitutional. He again invoked Merchans daughter, writing that she represents Crooked Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Adam Shifty Schiff, and other Radical Liberals and has just posted a picture of me behind bars, her obvious goal.

Trump is still attacking Judge Merchans daughter pic.twitter.com/VaKOQN76Nb  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 27, 2024

Maybe the Judge is such a hater because his daughter makes money by working to Get Trump, and when he rules against me over and over again, he is making her company, and her, richer and richer, he wrote in another post. How can this be allowed?

Trump is currently facing four felony indictments  two from the Justice Department for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his handling of classified material after leaving office, one in Georgia for his effort to overturn the 2020 election results in the state, and one in New York for allegedly falsifying business records related to a payment ahead of the 2016 election to keep porn star Stormy Daniels quiet about an alleged affair.

Its looking like the case in New York is the only one that will go to trial before the 2024 election. Its also looking like Trump will stop at nothing to paint everyone involved as part of a vast Democratic conspiracy to keep him from retaking the White House  including targeting their families.

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MAPUTO, March 27 (Xinhua) -- The ongoing rainy season, which commenced in October last year, has resulted in the loss of 139 lives, and injuries to 198 individuals and has impacted nearly 140,000 people in Mozambique, local media reported.

The government, through the National Institute for Risk and Disaster Management, is actively engaged in assisting the affected families, Filimao Suaze, spokesperson for the Council of Ministers, was quoted by Radio Mozambique Wednesday.

To date, at least 9,485 houses have been flooded, along with 19 schools, 49 roads and 13 health facilities being affected, he said. Additionally, several transit routes have been blocked.

Suaze also noted that the heavy rains over the past weekend resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals, all due to lightning strikes, in the southern part of the country. 
Former President Donald Trump on Tuesday weighed in on NBC News decision to drop ex-Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna McDaniel from the network after complaints from on-air talent.

Wow! Ronna McDaniel got fired by Fake News NBC. She only lasted two days, and this after McDaniel went out of her way to say what they wanted to hear, the 77-year-old presumptive GOP nominee wrote on Truth Social.

Trump then appeared to suggest that McDaniel may now be in some sort of political purgatory after her NBC News exit and prior resignation from the RNC following mounting criticism of her leadership.

President Donald Trump and Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel attend a campaign rally in Cape Girardeau, Mo., on Nov. 5, 2018. AP

It leaves her in a very strange place, its called NEVER NEVERLAND, Trump said, adding, and its not a place you want to be.

NBCUniversal chairman Cesar Conde terminated McDaniels paid contributorship gig Tuesday following public backlash to her hiring from several stars at the network, including MSNBC hosts Rachel Maddow, Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, and former Meet the Press host Chuck Todd.

After listening to the legitimate concerns of many of you, I have decided that Ronna McDaniel will not be an NBC News contributor, Conde wrote in a memo to employees.

Trump blasted the network for axing McDaniel.

These Radical Left Lunatics are CRAZY, and the top people at NBC ARE WEAK, he wrote on his social media platform. They were BROKEN and EMBARRASSED by LOW RATINGS, HIGHLY OVERPAID, TALENT.

Trump posted his comments to Truth Social Tuesday evening.

Trump blasted the network for axing McDaniel, calling NBC weak. REUTERS

BRING BACK FREE AND FAIR PRESS  MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN 2024!

McDaniel, 50, is reportedly looking to hire a lawyer as a result of her firing, according to Puck News.

Trump has called McDaniel a friend in the past, and hes praised her for helping deliver Michigan in his 2016 presidential contest against Hillary Clinton.

McDaniel, 50, is reportedly looking to hire a lawyer as a result of her firing. AFP/Getty Images

NBCUniversal received public backlash to McDaniels hiring from several stars at the network, including MSNBC host Rachel Maddow. MSNBC/YouTube

However, Trump suggested it was time for change at the RNC in the weeks leading up to McDaniels resignation.

She was replaced by Trump-backed North Carolina GOP chairman Michael Whatley, who was elected chair of the RNC earlier this month.

Trumps daughter-in-law Lara Trump was elected co-chair.
Donald Trump hit out at his predecessor in a text message to registered supporters - Michael M Santiago/Getty Images North America

Donald Trump has accused Barack Obama of spitting in the face of Americans amid reports that the latter former US president has been making secret calls to the White House.

Joe Biden frequently speaks with Mr Obama, whom he served under as vice-president, to discuss the state of the presidential race.

In turn, Mr Obama has been regularly calling Jeff Zients, Mr Bidens chief of staff, and White House aides to strategise for the forthcoming election, The New York Times has reported.

One senior adviser told the newspaper that Mr Obama has always been worried that his former running mate could lose to Mr Trump, the presumed Republican presidential candidate.

Polling shows that Mr Biden is lagging a couple of points behind his rival nationally  and by wider margins in several swing states that will likely decide the election.

It has previously been reported that Mr Obama warned Mr Biden twice last year in meetings at the White House that Mr Trump could beat him in November.

Believing that the US President was overdependent on a small group of advisers and that his campaign was failing to shift into gear, Mr Obama apparently urged him to act more aggressively and turn the election into a referendum on Mr Trump.

The two men will join Bill Clinton, another former president, at a major fundraiser for the Biden campaign at New Yorks Radio City Music Hall on Thursday.

Mr Biden wrote on social media that they would discuss whats on the ballot in this election and how we will defeat Trump again.

Joe Biden has had a strong start to the year in raising funds for the election battle, while his opponent is bogged down in court cases and legal fees - Stephanie Scarbrough/AP

US media reports that a photo with the trio will cost $100,000 (79,100), while donors will have to shell out at least $250,000 to attend a reception with them.

One veteran Democratic fundraiser claimed that it will be the largest fundraising event in Democratic history.

Mr Trump has used the gathering, which brings together three of the four living Democratic presidents  all of whom he has attacked at points in his career  to galvanise his own fundraising efforts.

DONT LET OBAMA SPIT IN YOUR FACE! he said in a text message to registered supporters. Apparently referencing the Democratic event on Thursday, he continued: Tomorrow they aim to HUMILIATE us. Its bad.

In a separate message, he hit out at the Obama-Clinton cartel and claimed that the Democrats hope the fundraiser will be the biggest victory of their campaign.

In response, the Republican called on one million pro-Trump patriots to donate to his election war chest.

Mr Biden has had a strong start to the year in raising funds for the election battle, while his opponent is bogged down in court cases and legal fees.

The presidents campaign had $97.5 million cash on hand at the end of February  more than double that of Mr Trump.

However, commentators point out that Hillary Clinton lost to Mr Trump in the 2016 presidential race despite outspending him two to one.

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Former President Trump called Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s campaign great for MAGA in a post early Wednesday.

RFK Jr. is the most Radical Left Candidate in the race, by far. Hes a big fan of the Green New Scam, and other economy killing disasters, Trump wrote on Truth Social. I guess this would mean he is going to be taking votes from Crooked Joe Biden, which would be a great service to America.

His running mate, Nicole Shanahan, is even more Liberal than him, if thats possible. Kennedy is a Radical Left Democrat, and always will be!!! Its great for MAGA, but the Communists will make it very hard for him to get on the Ballot, he said, referring to his Make America Great Again slogan that has become a movement among conservatives. Expect him, and her, to be indicted any day now, probably for Environmental Fraud!

The former president added, He is Crooked Joe Bidens Political Opponent, not mine. I love that he is running!

Kennedy announced Tuesday at an event in Oakland, Calif., that tech attorney and entrepreneur Nicole Shanahan would be his running mate, calling her a daughter of immigrants who overcame every daunting obstacle and went on to achieve the highest levels of the American dream.

That is why Im so proud to introduce to you, the next vice president of the United States, my fellow lawyer, a brilliant scientist, technologist, a fierce warrior-mom, Nicole Shanahan, the long-shot candidate said in his announcement.

The national polling index from The Hill/Decision Desk HQ shows Kennedy is trailing Trump, the presumptive GOP nominee, and President Biden by about 30 points each. The numbers show the former president with 41.5 percent support, Biden with 39.1 percent and Kennedy with 9.9 percent.

Top Stories from The Hill

Democrats also criticized Kennedy following his news about Shanahan, arguing he is serving as a spoiler to Biden, propelled by GOP funds.

Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.) said he is personally offended and just disgusted by Kennedys campaign during a call hosted by the Democratic National Committee Tuesday.

He should be ashamed of himself, Garcia continued. He should stop running for president.

Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis (D) also weighed in during the call, claiming Kennedy was drafted into this race by Donald Trumps top supporters.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A court in Tunisia has sentenced four people to death and two people to life in prison on charges of participating in the murder of the prominent political leader Chokri Belaid in 2013.

He was found shot dead in his car in the capital, Tunis, prompting outrage.

The leftist politician had been a fierce critic of the then-ruling Islamist Ennahda party.

He claimed it turned a blind eye to violence perpetrated by extremists against secularists.

Although Tunisia hands out death sentences for the gravest crimes, no executions have gone ahead since 1990. Instead, they are usually commuted to life terms.

A total of 23 people have been charged in connection with Belaid's killing.

"Justice has been done," Prosecutor Aymen Chtiba said in response to the six sentences handed down on Wednesday morning.

The verdict was announced live on national television after 15 hours of deliberation, reports the AFP news agency.

Jihadists with allegiance to Islamic State claimed responsibility for Belaid's assassination, as well as that of Mohamed Brahmi, another left-wing opposition figure, six months later.

These murders sparked mass demonstration from outraged Tunisians, two years after the pro-democracy Arab Spring uprising had begun in the country and spread elsewhere in the Maghreb and Middle East.

Tunisia is now governed by President Kais Saied, who has himself been branded an autocrat after a series of power grabs including dissolving the country's main legal body, sacking the prime minister and suspending parliament.

More Tunisia stories from the BBC:
Erdal Besikcioglu, adored in Turkey for his TV role as troubled Ankara police detective Behzat C, will be playing a different role this Sunday when he seeks to win over a conservative suburb of the capital in local elections.

In the long-running TV series, Besikioglu plays a complex but ultimately decent man, who, despite being discredited by his superiors, continues to take on a rotten system stuffed with venal officials.

His character is so popular it is hard to tell whether the enthusiastic crowds at his campaign rallies are cheering the candidate or the commissioner.

The decision of the main centre-left opposition CHP party (Republican People's Party) to make Besikcioglu its candidate for mayor of Etimesgut surprised many because he had never previously expressed any political ambition.

But the campaign novice has shown a real talent for connecting with voters in the sprawling suburb of 620,000 inhabitants that has been a bastion of the conservatives for two decades.

In the cafes of Etimesgut, he greets young locals with a cheery "La!", Ankaras version of "Bro" and one of Detective Behzats stock phrases.

"I greet people like a family member  the one they welcomed into their homes via their TV screens for all those years," he explained as he glad-handed shopkeepers in one of Etimesgut's main streets.

Around him, an adoring crowd of young people and veiled women jostled for a selfie with their hero, who played the part of an idealistic governor in another TV series. For his fans, Besikcioglu is already "our mayor".

Some pundits compare him to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was a hugely popular actor and comedian before he took on the serious role of running his troubled country.

"On screen, I try to portray leaders as they should be. Now the time has come to put those ideas into practice," Besikcioglu told AFP.

In Etimesgut, the desire for change and fresh faces plays in his favour.

"The current mayor is clinging to power, just like Erdogan, said 56-year-old housewife Derya Egin, in reference to the long-time president Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "We need a change."

Besikcioglu's critics say he doesnt have a political plan.

He's mainly proposing cultural activities. That's great but its not enough," said a local who asked to remain anonymous.

The election contest between Besikcioglu and incumbent mayor Enver Demirel is set to be a tough fight. But Detective Bezhat says hes not bothered.

"I don't look at the opinion polls," he said dismissively.

"I'm an artist, first and foremost, for the people here. With God's help, I'll be their mayor too."

bg/ach/gil/gv
BOAO, Hainan, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Asia remains a dynamic and attractive destination for global investment, said attendees at a sideline forum of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA), which convenes its 2024 annual conference in Boao, a resort town in southern China's Hainan Province.

According to the forum's Asian Economic Outlook and Integration Progress flagship report, Asian economies demonstrated strong resilience in investment activities in 2022. Foreign direct investment (FDI) flows into Asia-Pacific economies amounted to 809.4 billion U.S. dollars, growing by 6.76 percent over the previous year and accounting for 62 percent of international FDI inflows.

Asia has been a significant beneficiary of FDI, said Shamshad Akhtar, Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs of Pakistan, while noting the role of FDI in Asia's development at the sub-forum with a theme of "Investing the Future of Asia."

It is important to recognize that Asia, particularly emerging markets, is now on its own development momentum. Asia have become the world's manufacturing and trade hub supported by foreign capital and investments, she noted.

In 2022, Asian economies attracted a total of 8.8 trillion U.S. dollars in portfolio investment, and China's stock of portfolio investment surpassed 1 trillion U.S. dollars for the first time, said the report.

Speaking at the forum, Charles Dallara, a member of the Board of Directors of Partners Group, said foreign investments are supporting the global market developments and Asia is really a dynamic and attractive location for investments, especially FDI.

Among Asian economies, China is a very attractive destination for FDI, he said, adding that at the same time, a large amount of capital from China has flowed to other countries and many Chinese businesses and enterprises are investing in the United States, Europe, Japan and Southeast Asia.

Officials and experts also voiced opinions on how to boost investor confidence, improve the investment environment, and enhance investment destinations' attractiveness in Asia.

Geopolitical influence, rule of law, market potential, industrial system, labor forces, market players, and policy support are factors that affect the inflow of FDI, said Xu Zhibin, deputy administrator of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange.

Governments also play an important role in attracting global capital, said Shimizu Tokiko, assistant governor of the Bank of Japan, adding that Asian countries have resilient economy and governments should have consistent policy arrangements and provide a clear map on its own development for investors.

According to the report, the Asian economy is expected to grow by around 4.5 percent in 2024, surpassing that of 2023, and continue to be the largest contributor to global economic growth.

With a founding purpose to promote economic integration in Asia, the mission of the BFA is to pool positive energy for the development of Asia and the world. The BFA annual conference 2024 runs from March 26 to 29. 
U.K. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps urged Europe not to restrict imports from Ukraine, reminding London's own decision to extend tariff-free and quota-free imports from Ukraine for most goods for another five years.

"The U.K. calls on Europe to follow suit to defend freedom and democracy against the invasion of sovereign Ukraine by dictatorial (Vladimir) Putin," Shapps wrote on X on March 27.

Previously, France and Poland called for a curb on Ukrainian agricultural imports, Politico reported on March 19. Such a move would threaten to derail negotiations on extending Ukraine's free-trade access to the EU for another year, according to three European diplomats who spoke to the media outlet.

Paris and Warsaw reportedly pushed for restrictions on Ukrainian products import, including wheat, sugar, poultry, oats, honey, and eggs, the Polish radio station RMF 24 said on March 27.

France and Poland, supported by some of Ukraine's neighbors, also insisted on considering the year 2021, when Ukrainian imports to the EU were lower than during the full-scale war, in the European Parliament's calculation of quotas for Ukrainian agricultural products, RMF 24 said, citing diplomatic sources.

On March 27, Belgium's EU Council presidency updated the draft agreement, extending the term of duty-free trade with Ukraine, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) reported, citing anonymous sources familiar with the issue.

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According to RFE/RL, parties are still trying to find a compromise, considering taking into account 2022, 2023, and only the second half of 2021 in the calculation of Ukraine's import capacity to partially meet Paris' and Warsaw's demands.

Ukraine could lose an additional 86 million euros ($95 million) if the second half of 2021 is considered during the calculations, RFE/RL said, citing the European Commission's evaluation.

In total, Ukraine's budget could lose 331 million euros ($358 million) if future restrictions on Ukrainian imports were based on the calculations considering the years 2022, 2023, and the second half of 2021.

The EU instituted a liberalized trade regime with Ukraine in 2022 to alleviate the country's economy amid Russia's war and the blockade of the Black Sea shipping lanes.

Several EU members, such as Poland, have complained that imports of Ukrainian agricultural products are pushing down prices and thus threatening their own farmers. Polish farmers are currently holding protests in Poland and at the Ukrainian border, blocking several checkpoints.

Read also: Investigation: Belarusian timber enters Poland under false documents, bypassing EU sanctions

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U.K. General Rob Magowan admitted in a committee meeting on March 26 that the U.K.'s military "couldn't fight (Russia) for more than a couple of months because we don't have the ammunition and reserves of equipment to do it."

The striking admission was the latest warning from U.K. defense and military officials cautioning that the country is unprepared for armed conflict. Officials from other NATO countries have repeated similar concerns.

The U.K.'s parliament released a bipartisan report in February 2024 that said the armed forces have yet to break the "vicious cycle" of equipment and manpower shortages that continue to hinder its preparation for a high-intensity war.

Magowan's acknowledgment on March 26 went even further as he responded to a direct question from lawmaker Mark Francois about the ability of the U.K. to fight Russia.

"We are not ready for an enduring war, do you accept that?" Francois asked, to which Magowan responded, "Yes, absolutely."

"We could not fight an enduring war against Russia, drop all these euphemisms about peer adversaries," Francois continued.

Magowan conceded that government spending on defense "does not meet, in all areas, the threats that we face."

At the same time, U.K. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said that a situation in which the U.K. would fight Russia alone is unlikely.

"For people watching, and hearing that the U.K. isn't ready for war exclusively with Russia, its important to understand that because we are in NATO and Article 5 (mutual defense clause) exists, (so) we would never be in that situation."

Read also: Top German general: We must be ready for war (with Russia) in 5 years

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Britain faces grave consequences if the Government fails to increase military spending, the new president of the countrys leading defence trade body has warned.

David Lockwood, the chief executive of the defence firm Babcock, warns in an article for The Telegraph that the peace dividend enjoyed after the Second World War is over.

Amid a debate within the Conservative party about whether to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent or 3 per cent of GDP, he notes the figure was 4 per cent when the Cold War ended.

The intervention is likely to be leaped on by those Tories who are pressing Rishi Sunak to commit to higher defence spending in the partys general election manifesto.

The Prime Minister has promised to raise defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP, up from its current level of around 2.3 per cent. However he has not named a date for hitting the target.

The Telegraph revealed this month that three former Tory defence secretaries - Sir Michael Fallon, Sir Gavin Williamson and Ben Wallace - want a 3 per cent manifesto commitment.

Mr Lockwood is the new president of the ADS Group, the trade body for the UK aerospace, defence, security and space industries.

He writes: Much of the recent discussion has related to how much of our GDP we should be spending on defence. I believe that there is a compelling case that the amount should be increased; the current growth in budgets is not matching the growth in demand.

The question as to the right number is important, with both 2.5 per cent and 3 per cent of GDP being suggested. But to put these percentages into context, in 1991  the year the Cold War ended  UK defence spending was at 4.1 per cent of GDP.

Protecting our people comes first

Mr Lockwood notes the many other pressures on public spending across Whitehall, but argues that at a fundamental level, the first responsibility of any government is to protect its people.

He adds: Without that security, little else is possible. Increasing spending to counter the increasing threat environment must be an immediate political priority.

Whatever the final figure, the facts are simple: the need for real investment into UK defence has not been greater for decades.

Mr Lockwood finishes his article with a warning about what could happen, amid rising geopolitical tensions, if funding does not increase and if the Governments approach does not become more long-term.

He writes: This is not just about increasing a percentage  we need a mindset shift away from the historic laissez faire approach, which has led to delayed capabilities and hollowed out capacity, to long-term resilience which can deliver increased availability and ensure the security of supply chains.

It will take time but the failure to act could have grave consequences for our future security.

The best time to do this was 15 years ago

As a leading global power, Britain should always be on the front foot when it comes to the security of our nation.

The best time to do this was 15 years ago as global threat levels began to increase. The second-best time is now.

The argument may well be countered by critics noting that Mr Lockwood heads up a defence company that could benefit if more money is spent on that area by the government.

But his intervention comes as a political debate rages across the aisle about whether and by how much defence spending should increase in the years ahead.

MPs from all political parties have noted the recent increase in geopolitical tensions, with Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine now having passed its two-year anniversary.

Labour has matched the Tories ambition to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent, but also has not put a date on when they would want to hit that level if in power.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The need for real investment in UK defence has not been greater for decades

By David Lockwood

You dont have to work in the defence industry to know that the world has become a more difficult and dangerous place.

For decades we enjoyed a peace dividend. Now, once again, we face threats around the world. From war in Europe to heightened tensions in the Indo-Pacific, through to the worsening situation in Gaza and ongoing struggles to secure vital shipping lanes, the future is increasingly uncertain.

Diplomacy and peaceful negotiation will always be the best solution to the problems facing the world, but recent years have shown that these will not always work.

It is increasingly clear that the UK and our allies must be prepared to stand up and defend our way of life. But it takes time to develop the capability and products that underpin our ability to act; the threats are here and now but the defence enterprise has not caught up with our new reality.

It is not surprising that we are now seeing a meaningful national public debate on the importance of defence. This is a conversation we need to have, and one I hope continues into the forthcoming general election campaigns.

Much of the recent discussion has related to how much of our GDP we should be spending on defence. I believe that there is a compelling case that the amount should be increased; the current growth in budgets is not matching the growth in demand.

The question as to the right number is important, with both 2.5 per cent and 3 per cent of GDP being suggested. But to put these percentages into context, in 1991  the year the Cold War ended  UK defence spending was at 4.1 per cent of GDP. In the following three decades, spending fell year on year, as successive governments banked the peace dividend.

Governments face a range of pressures that demand higher spending in non-defence departments. The costs of the pandemic will be felt for many years to come; an ageing society is increasing our health costs, social care, and pensions; and falling birth rates are exacerbating these problems. Politicians must make the difficult decisions required to balance all the competing demands on public finances.

But at a fundamental level, the first responsibility of any government is to protect its people.

Without that security, little else is possible. Increasing spending to counter the increasing threat environment must be an immediate political priority. Whatever the final figure, the facts are simple: the need for real investment into UK defence has not been greater for decades.

The increased public interest in defence offers government an opportunity to make sure we build resilience into defence. They should take it. This cannot just be about how we buy equipment, or how we recruit and support our Armed Services, but how we promote a collective pride in the national endeavour that is the protection of our nation.

Government and industry have a critical role to play in getting equipment into the hands of the people on the front lines. We need to be leaner, to move faster in procurement and able to adapt to the ever-changing nature of conflict.

This is not just about increasing a percentage  we need a mindset shift away from the historic laissez faire approach, which has led to delayed capabilities and hollowed out capacity, to long-term resilience which can deliver increased availability and ensure the security of supply chains.

It will take time but the failure to act could have grave consequences for our future security.

As a leading global power, Britain should always be on the front foot when it comes to the security of our nation.

The best time to do this was 15 years ago as global threat levels began to increase. The second-best time is now.

David Lockwood OBE is president of ADS, the UK trade body for the defence, aerospace, security and space sectors.

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A 3D hologram, dubbed the Ever-Changing Statue, will be on display at the Rise by Barclays workspace in New York until April 4.

Sipping wine and nibbling burrata, a group of government officials, reporters and founders gathered at its unveiling, watching as the hologram flickered a display that alternated through images of some of the U.K.s top unicorn founders like Tessa Clarke, the co-founder of food waste startup Olio, and Alexander and Oliver Kent-Braham, founders of insurance startup Marshmallow.

The display celebrated the U.K. as the third $1 trillion tech economy, preceded only by the U.S. and China.

While Brexit has had its economic impacts, U.K. officials want American VCs to know that since 2020, its tech ecosystem has seen healthy development. Dealroom data shows that U.K. startups raised $31 billion in venture capital in 2022 and $41 billion in 2021. Last year, the U.K. raised $21 billion in venture capital  though that is a dip, with the market retraction in mind, it is still more than what France and Germany raised combined. Its also still more than the $18 billion the U.K. raised in 2019 and the $12 billion raised in 2018.

It seems that even Black founders, a group historically struggling to secure funding, are seeing progress. Between 2009 and 2019, only 38 U.K. Black founders raised venture capital fundingthat number now stands at 80, according to an updated report by Extend Ventures.

The U.K. says its home to more than 160 unicorns and 12 decacorns (companies worth more than $10 billion). Fintech is a particularly stand-out area, including Monzo, Revolut and Wise. With the rise of DeepMind and Benevolent AI, its also becoming the hub for artificial intelligence. And there was more than a little hushed pride from those at the event that its also the home of OnlyFans.

The hologram  and the British government officials  are selling potential as the main draw to the U.K., a sales pitch clearly designed to boost a sluggish economy.

Hologram stills of British founders as part of the UK's campaign to woo Americans.

The hologram featured some of the top founders and CEOs in the U.K. Image Credits: GREAT

Although talent from other European countries might have slowed in the U.K., there is still an influx of immigration from other countries, meaning an inrush of ideas, hires and, once again, potential. Other cities in the country have also flourished, such as Manchester and Cambridge.

Rodney Appiah, the co-founder of the U.K.-based venture firm Cornerstone Ventures, spoke to TechCrunch about some of the holes that are waiting to be filled in the U.K. He said there is room for more funds and accelerator programs, alongside a desire to have more senior talent that can help companies move from early stage to growth.

Paul Taylor, the CEO of Thought Machine and one of the people depicted on the hologram, echoed the need for more venture funds dedicated to the region, saying that U.K. companies typically have to obtain foreign investors when they grow.

The U.K. tech ecosystem has made significant strides, but work remains to reach the scale and influence of Silicon Valley, Taylor told TechCrunch.

At the same time, Appiah said the ecosystem is dealing with the rise of more emerging managers, micro funds and, finally, access to more risk capital. We are also seeing more VC involvement from cash-rich [corporations] and institutional investors seeking to diversify.

Having the hologram in New York is clearly an attempt to grab the attention of American startups and investors. A 2023 report by HSBC Innovation Banking  previously SVB  showed that U.S. investors were the largest source of funding for British startups last year. The Times reported that more American tech entrepreneurs are buying up real estate in London, while NEA, Bessemer and a16z have all opened offices there in the past few years.

On the other hand, not all investors have faired well with their attempts to invest out of London. Two high-profile investors, Omers and Coatue, recently significantly downgraded or shut down their European outpost operations based in London.

However, perhaps the biggest draw for Americans is that the British seem willing to work with investors and founders to shape the tech ecosystem. In fact, friendly regulation was one reason a16z opened its crypto office in London, as the U.S. was looking to impose regulations on the industry.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak  who created the Unicorn Kingdom initiative  unveiled a plan last year to invest 370 million (around $468 million) to support the countrys tech ambitions. Last summer, the British government announced an agreement with the countrys nine largest pension funds to start investing assets in startups, a move the government predicted could unlock 50 billion in capital if the rest of the pension industry decided to invest in startups, too.

Its no wonder, then, that the hologram, sparkling in red, white and blue, was sold as a sign of the future. Creating a two-way road between the USA and U.K. is a win for both countries, Clarke said.

The statue, created by the British company HYPERVSN, will be on display until April 4.
Evacuation! Of civilians from the village of Luhivka. Out of breath, police officer Dmytro Piddubnyi is recording the scene on his phone and providing a commentary. But hes working, too, and the old lady in front is not moving fast enough.

Grandma, come on! Come on, come on, come on, dear, come on! There are two booms in the distance, most likely an artillery piece firing.

Luhivka, in Ukraines northeastern Sumy region, lies just a few miles from the border with Russia. In common with dozens of small towns and villages along the frontier, it has seen a significant increase in attacks in the last couple of weeks, bringing the anguish of war and its impossible choices right back to the people living there.

The old woman, a walking stick in her right hand, picks up her pace for a few steps, then slows again. She mutters something inaudible, a plea perhaps to the young policeman to show some understanding of her age. Shes doing her best.

Piddubnyi swings his phone around to show the damage to the bridge theyre crossing. It was hit by a Russian missile, but a narrow strip of concrete remains intact, which allows them to cross the river, and make their way to the vehicles that will drive them to a safer place.

In the opposite direction, on the other side of the border, Ukraines military has stepped up its attempts to bring the war to Russia, coordinating with Russian volunteers fighting for Ukraine as they carry out commando-style raids on villages in the Belgorod and Kursk regions, as well as increasing its own artillery and drone strikes.

Vladimir Putin, following his unsurprising victory in a widely discredited presidential election earlier this month, raised the prospect for only the second time about the possibility of creating a sanitary zone inside Ukraine to protect Russias southwestern regions.

Self-defense unit volunteers stand by burned-out cars in a residential area of the city of Belgorod, Russia, following fresh aerial attacks on March 22, 2024. - AFP/Getty Images

CNN spoke by phone with people living along the Ukrainian side of the border, or with relatives living there.

Olha Mykhailivna, 58, said her village of Ryzhivka had suddenly come under massive attack from Grad rockets on March 12  and that it was worse than anything she had seen since the war first came to Sumy region more than two years ago.

The shelling did not stop all day. They were firing from all kinds of weapons. We were hiding in the basements. We would jump out for a few minutes to feed our animals, and then go back inside. It was endless, she said.

After three days of bombardment, Olha Mykhailivna and her husband agreed to leave. As the car to collect them drew up, she said, there was an explosion on the other side of the street. In the chaos and the haste, they scooped up their dog but left behind the bags they had carefully packed.

They also left behind their cattle. So, they asked the two men helping them evacuate if they could let the animals out of the barn on their return to the village and put out food for them. Otherwise, tethered up, the cattle could starve.

We have lived in Ryzhivka all our lives. Both my husband and I were born there. It is our home. We built the house ourselves. We wanted our children to have a place to visit. And then the bear got into the house. Its very hard and scary to be left without a home at my age, she said.

The bear, of course, is Russia.

Iryna Mishchenko told CNN about her grandmother. After burying her middle-aged son in the yard in front of his home because there was no way to remove the body after he was killed in an artillery strike, the 75-year-old eventually left the village of Popivka on foot, walking across fields to get to the main road. There, she borrowed a phone from a stranger and called her granddaughter.

We picked her up at the bus stop near the village of Yizdetske. Now Grandma is with us in Sumy (city), but she cant really talk at the moment, she is in a bad way after what she has been through, Mishchenko said.

According to Sumys regional governor, Volodymyr Artiukh, up to 90% of Popivkas buildings have been destroyed, making it among the worst-hit settlements along the border. The frequency of attacks since the start of the year is two to three times higher than it was in 2023, Artiukh says, and the types of munitions being used are more destructive.

More than 100 guided aerial bombs  which generally carry a minimum weight of 500 kilograms (1,100 lbs)  are being dropped each week on Sumy region, the governor told Radio Liberty. These munitions, more than anything, are responsible for so much of the recent devastation.

The Russian army is trying to burn our border villages to the ground, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said last week, referring also to an increase in raids by sabotage and reconnaissance groups sent across the border by Russia.

A Ukrainian serviceman stands at his position in a trench at a front line on the border with Russia in Sumy region, Ukraine, on January 20, 2024. - Gleb Garanich/Reuters

In truth, Ukraine has also been making much of the running when it comes to making these border regions an active combat zone. Coordinating with Kyivs Defense Intelligence Directorate, several volunteer legions of Russians fighting for Ukraine have stepped up their own assaults on Russias border villages in recent weeks.

One of the villages, Kozinka in Russias Belgorod region, is just a few miles away from Luhivka, with its destroyed bridge, and Popivka, where Mishchenkos grandmother buried her son.

The pro-Kyiv Russian fighters have posted multiple videos on their Telegram channels purporting to show drone strikes on pro-Kremlin Russian soldiers in Kozinka. The footage shows widespread destruction in the village. Moscows top official in the region, governor Vyacheslav Gladkov, has acknowledged Kozinka and the surrounding areas are very seriously damaged.

In the regional center of Belgorod, a Russian city with a population of more than 300,000, which lies just 40 km (25 miles) from the border, a Reuters reporter said air raid sirens had become an almost daily occurrence. Ukraine has significantly ramped up artillery and drone attacks on the city, forcing authorities to close schools and shopping malls. Evacuations from communities on this side of the border have also been announced.

This is not the first time Kyiv has turned up the heat on the Belgorod region. Similar cross-border raids took place last May, in the weeks leading up to Ukraines ultimately failed counteroffensive, but did not provoke the escalation in reprisal strikes on the Sumy region seen this time.

Workers inspect fortifications being built in Ukraine's Sumy region on March 16, 2024. The city of Sumy, near the border, has seen intensified attacks by Russian military groups in recent months. - Libkos/Getty Images

The pretext for the latest attacks inside Russia was to slow down Moscows offensive plans in Ukraine, one of the pro-Kyiv Russian volunteer leaders said last week at a news conference. The aim was also to take the sheen off Putins stage-managed election win.

Even though Russias leader might seem impervious to small military setbacks, his comments last week following the announcement of his poll victory suggest a possible further intention to force Ukraines border areas into submission.

I do not rule out that we will be forced at some point, when we consider it appropriate, to create a certain sanitary zone on todays territories under the Kyiv regime, he said.

Putin first floated the idea of a buffer zone last June, when he discussed the wars progress with Russian military correspondents in a meeting at the Kremlin. Acknowledging the limitations of counter-battery fire in repressing incoming attacks, he said Russia might in the future need to control a border zone inside Ukraine which would put Russian territory outside the range of Ukrainian artillery.

Even discounting the Russian-occupied territories  and Belarus  Ukraines border with Russia runs for many hundreds of kilometers. Oleksiy Melnyk, a security analyst at Kyivs Razumkov Center, downplayed the viability of any such zone, telling CNN it would also need to reach 70 km (43 miles) inside Ukraine if it was going to rule out attacks by rocket artillery.

For people who are not very well informed, it looks like a really good idea, he said.

In fact, the floating of a possible buffer zone showed that Putin has no proposals on how to end the conflict, Melnyk said, other than to capture and disarm all of Ukraine.

Victoria Butenko and Maria Kostenko contributed to this report.

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UNITED NATIONS, March 27 (Xinhua) -- UN humanitarians said on Wednesday they are concerned about the spread of cholera in nearly half of the 72 Somalia districts amid a severe shortage in oral vaccine doses.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said almost 4,400 cases and 54 deaths were recorded last week since the start of the year. More than 60 percent of the deaths were among children under 5.

OCHA said 1.4 million doses that the International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision allocated for Somalia are expected to arrive shortly.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said that the number of reported cases in Somalia is three times higher than the previous three-year average. Somalia is already among the countries most severely impacted by cholera and acute watery diarrhea.

"This outbreak is expected to spread further, including to areas where the disease has not been seen in years, during the coming rainy season, which is expected to be heavier than normal," WHO said.

OCHA said the United Nations and its humanitarian partners are working with Somalia's health authorities to step up preparation and response efforts, which aligns with a six-month plan of action that will require nearly 6 million U.S. dollars.

"Aid organizations are prepositioning cholera treatment kits and working on surveillance and case management," the office said. "They are also delivering clean water, testing water quality, and providing water treatment supplies and hygiene kits, as well as training and deploying health workers."

However, OCHA said that additional funding is urgently needed. This year's Somalia Humanitarian Response Plan is less than 10 percent funded, with just over 150 million U.S. dollars received of the nearly 1.6 billion dollars required. 
Kyrylo Budanov, Head of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), says that the messaging app Telegram poses a threat to Ukraine's national security.

Source: Lieutenant General Budanov at the Kyiv Stratcom Forum 2024, as quoted by hromadske

Quote: "So anyone can create a channel and start writing whatever they want on it, and when they start doing that, they hide behind the fact that there is freedom of the media. But this is not media freedom; this is something else."

Details: Budanov also added that he is against any clampdown on freedom of speech, but not when anyone can set up a channel and write "whatever they want".

However, he said, Telegram does help to provide people in the temporarily occupied territories with information.

"It has a destructive effect here in many ways, but it also helps us to keep people in the occupied territories informed. That is something that more or less works," the DIU head noted.

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People search among the rubble after an Israeli airstrike in Maghazi refugee camp, central Gaza Strip, on March 26, 2024. The Palestinian death toll in the Gaza Strip from ongoing Israeli attacks has risen to 32,414, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a press statement on Tuesday. (Xinhua)

The global parliamentary community urged the relevant authorities on all sides" to take "urgent action to alleviate the suffering of the people in the region, including women, children and the elderly."

GENEVA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- The situation in Gaza was top of the agenda at the 148th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) here on Wednesday.

On the last day of the Assembly, IPU President Tulia Ackson and Secretary-General Martin Chungong issued a joint statement on behalf of the global parliamentary community, calling for "an immediate ceasefire in Gaza."

They urged the relevant authorities on all sides" to take "urgent action to alleviate the suffering of the people in the region, including women, children and the elderly, who have been caught up in the fighting."

A man looks at a destroyed car after an Israeli airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on March 26, 2024. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

They also called for the "immediate and unconditional release of all hostages."

The statement also emphasized the importance of upholding international humanitarian law and reiterated the leaders' strong disapproval of any violence directed toward civilians. 












The Ukrainian Parliament's National Security Committee is gearing up to examine 700 proposed amendments to a pivotal military draft bill, MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak reported on Telegram on March 27.

Reviewing these amendments would bring the bill's completion status to 82%. A single committee session might suffice to address these changes, according to Zheleznyak.

The committee plans daily work on the bill, said MP Yuri Zdebskyi to LIGA.net. The focus will particularly be on amendments related to contract service within the armed forces.

In a previous session, the committee ruled out suggestions that would mandate the timing of basic military training for 18-year-olds, a move that would have made young adults immediately eligible for the draft.

Read also: Parliament passes bill boosting military rights: 12-month treatment, $385K compensation for death

The government introduced a revised version of the draft bill (No. 10449) to the parliament on Jan. 30. The proposed changes include issuing draft notices through a digital platform for conscripts, reducing the draft age to 25, setting a 36-month demobilization term, allowing voluntary enlistment for convicts, imposing restrictions on draft evasion, and enforcing a rule that bars individuals from civil service roles without military training.



The bill passed first reading in the Parliament on Feb. 7.

Parliamentary National Security Committee began considering the conscription bill for the second reading on Feb. 27.

Read also:

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Ukraine's Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal, has commissioned the immediate start of the design and construction of a water pipeline to provide drinking water to Mykolaiv.

Source: Shmyhal on Telegram, reporting the results of a meeting with the participation of relevant ministers and the leadership of Mykolaiv

Quote: "Water supply was disrupted in Mykolaiv as a result of constant Russian attacks at the start of the full-scale invasion, as well as Russia's blowing up of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant. To address it, the government has already allocated more than UAH 1.3 billion (approx. US$33 million) in total. Technical water is being supplied," the prime minister wrote.

Shmyhal stated that a comprehensive solution is being developed to provide people with access to drinking water, including the construction of a new water pipeline.

"The task at hand is to prepare the relevant project in a short period of time. Today, during the meeting, we discussed the proposals and identified potential funding sources.

As a result of the meeting, I instructed [the local officials - ed.] to ensure Mykolaivs uninterrupted supply of technical water this year, as well as to immediately begin the design and construction of a new water pipeline to provide drinking water to the city," Shmyhal summarised.

Before Russia's full-scale invasion, Mykolaiv was supplied with water from the Dnipro River. The problem with the city's water supply arose as a result of constant attacks by the Russian Federation at the start of a full-scale invasion, as well as Russia's blowing up of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP).

"Now, the city pumps water from nearby rivers. Because of its proximity to the Black Sea, this water contains more salt. Fresh water should be collected on the street from wells or desalination stations," writes liga.net.

Earlier, Ukraines Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov stated that they intend to resume drinking water supplies in Mykolaiv by the end of this year.

Background:

The Cabinet of Ministers approved an additional UAH 5.149 billion (approx. US$131 million) for the State Agency for Restoration and Infrastructure Development to build main water pipelines following the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric station.

According to February reports, the main water pipeline in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, which is expected to provide water supply to cities affected by the explosion of the Kakhovka HPP, is already nearing completion.

In fact, immediately after the Russians blew up the Kakhovka HPP, work on the main water pipelines began.

The construction of the main water pipelines for the regions affected by the Kakhovka HPP explosion will cost at least UAH 13.5 billion (approx. US$343.6 million).

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Russian forces launched an overnight attack on Ukraine utilizing 13 Shahed drones, with Ukrainian air defense intercepting and downing 10 of them, the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces said on Facebook on March 27.

Russia launched the drones from its Kursk Oblast. The air defense system took down the drones in Kharkiv, Sumy, and Kyiv oblasts.

Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk also confirmed that Ukrainian forces destroyed 10 Shahed drones out of the 13 launched.

Russia overall conducted five missile strikes and 74 airstrikes, along with 152 artillery bombardments using multiple rocket launchers targeting Ukrainian troop positions and civilian settlements within the past day. The General Staff report indicates casualties among the civilian population.

Read also: Russia escalates drone strikes on civilians in southern Ukraine by 40%

Russian drone attack triggered air raid alerts overnight on March 27 in Sumy, Chernihiv, Kyiv, Poltava, Dnipropetrovsk, and Kharkiv oblasts. The latest reports from the Kharkiv Oblast indicated the operation of the air defense system.



Read also: Ukraine eliminates all 12 Shahed kamikaze drones launched by Russia overnight

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Oleksii Makeiev, Ambassador of Ukraine to Germany pictured during a visit to Diehl Defense. Makeiev on 27 March called Russian allegations that his country was involved in the attack near Moscow that left at least 139 people dead "absurd" during an interview on Deutschlandfunk public radio. Christoph Schmidt/dpa

The Ukrainian ambassador to Germany on Wednesday called Russian allegations that his country was involved in the attack near Moscow that left at least 139 people dead "absurd."

"Yes, I rule that out," Oleksii Makeiev said on Deutschlandfunk public radio on Wednesday morning, adding that these were "absurd accusations."

Russia is trying to accuse Ukraine of terrorism in order to divert attention from its own terror, he said.

At least 139 people were killed and almost 200 injured in Friday's attack when four gunmen fired at the Crocus City Hall music venue.

Islamic State has already claimed responsibility for the attack in Moscow on several occasions.

Western security authorities and experts also consider this to be credible and suspect the offshoot Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) to be behind it.

Russian spokespeople have talked about Islamist terrorists. However, they insinuate that they could have acted on behalf of Ukraine or its Western supporters.

Ukraine has been engaged in a defensive war against Russia for over two years.

In the interview Makeiev also opposed statements by Social Democrat (SPD) parliamentary group leader Rolf Mutzenich about "freezing" the war. The ambassador referred to the many rounds of negotiations with Russia since 2014, in which Germany was also involved. "This freeze has only led to a huge war raging in Europe today," said Makeiev.

He said he spoke to Mutzenich, SPD leader Lars Klingbeil and SPD General Secretary Kevin Kuhnert behind closed doors last week and was assured that the SPD would not change anything regarding Germany's support for Ukraine.
Oleksii Makeiev, Ambassador of Ukraine to Germany pictured during a visit to Diehl Defense. Makeiev on 27 March called Russian allegations that his country was involved in the attack near Moscow that left at least 139 people dead "absurd" during an interview on Deutschlandfunk public radio. Christoph Schmidt/dpa

The Ukrainian ambassador to Germany on Wednesday called Russian allegations that his country was involved in the attack near Moscow that left at least 139 people dead "absurd."

"Yes, I rule that out," Oleksii Makeiev said on Deutschlandfunk public radio on Wednesday morning, adding that these were "absurd accusations."

Russia is trying to accuse Ukraine of terrorism in order to divert attention from its own terror, he said.

At least 139 people were killed and almost 200 injured in Friday's attack when four gunmen fired at the Crocus City Hall music venue.

Islamic State has already claimed responsibility for the attack in Moscow on several occasions.

Western security authorities and experts also consider this to be credible and suspect the offshoot Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) to be behind it.

Russian spokespeople have talked about Islamist terrorists. However, they insinuate that they could have acted on behalf of Ukraine or its Western supporters.

Ukraine has been engaged in a defensive war against Russia for over two years.

In the interview Makeiev also opposed statements by Social Democrat (SPD) parliamentary group leader Rolf Mutzenich about "freezing" the war. The ambassador referred to the many rounds of negotiations with Russia since 2014, in which Germany was also involved. "This freeze has only led to a huge war raging in Europe today," said Makeiev.

He said he spoke to Mutzenich, SPD leader Lars Klingbeil and SPD General Secretary Kevin Kuhnert behind closed doors last week and was assured that the SPD would not change anything regarding Germany's support for Ukraine.

Makeiev also urged the rapid delivery of weapons and ammunition.

"We don't need this tomorrow, not the day after tomorrow, but today," emphasized the ambassador.

Ukraine must accept SPD Chancellor Olaf Scholz's no to the delivery of Taurus cruise missiles, even if it does not agree with it, he said. Scholz has justified his no vote by stating that he believes that Germany should not relinquish control of the Taurus missiles, as they can be used to hit targets in Russia.

Makeiev said that there was no reason to mistrust his country. Ukraine had always kept its promises regarding the handling of supplied weapons. At the same time, he emphasized the Ukrainian army's ability to handle complex weapons systems.
Vasyl Malyuk at a war forum in Kyiv last month - VIACHESLAV RATYNSKYI/ANADOLU VIA GETTY IMAGES

Ukrainians who collaborate with Russia face being killed as part of an assassination programme, the head of Kyivs security services has said.

Lt Gen Vasyl Malyuk, the SBUs most senior officer, said covert operations had already targeted very many people responsible for war crimes and attacks against Ukrainian citizens.

The campaign, involving networks of secret agents and clandestine operatives, has prioritised Ukrainian nationals collaborating with the Kremlins occupation authorities, he said in an hour-long television interview.

Officially, we will not admit to this, Lt Gen Malyuk told the ICTV broadcaster. But at the same time, I can offer some details.

Moscow almost immediately moved to issue a warrant for the SBU heads arrest on suspicion of participating in terrorist acts on Tuesday after the interview was broadcast.

Darya Trepova appearing before a court in Moscow on April 4 2023. She was jailed for 27 years despite her plea that she was tricked into delivering the explosive device - EVGENIA NOVOZHENINA/REUTERS

Lt Gen Malyuk said once intelligence has been confirmed with national law enforcement agencies, the SBU is sanctioned to carry out the assassinations.

The most high-profile killing was that of Ukrainian-born Kremlin propagandist Vladlen Tatarsky, who was killed in a bombing at a St Petersburg cafe owned by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the late head of the Wagner mercenary organisation.

The SBU chief said his security service would not take responsibility for the assassination but confirmed an operative had duped a young woman into handing an explosive-laden statue to Tatarsky.

Darya Trepova, a Russian art school graduate who claims she was tricked into planting the bomb, was sentenced to 27 years in prison by a Moscow court in January.

CCTV footage showed Darya Trepova carrying the package to the cafe in St Petersburg - EAST2WEST NEWS

Lt Gen Malyuk said Tatarsky deserved his fate because of the repeated abuse of Ukrainian prisoners of war.

Illia Kyva, the former Ukrainian MP, was named as another victim of a Ukrainian state-sponsored assassination when he was shot dead in a village west of Moscow on Dec 6, 2023.

He had been convicted of treason by Kyiv and was accused of participating in anti-Ukrainian activities in cooperation with Russias FSB security service.

Lt Gen Malyuk said Kyva was executed by a pair of 9mm pistol shots at close range by a skilled assassin.

Illia Kyva, who was shot dead in 2023, speaks against sanctions on pro-Russian TV channels at a rally in Kyiv in 2021 - ALEKSANDR GUSEV/SOPA IMAGES/LIGHTROCKET VIA GETTY IMAGES

Zakhar Prilepin, a senior police official in the Russian-backed separatist government in occupied Luhansk, survived an assassination attempt when an anti-tank mine was detonated at a country house in the region, the SBU chief said. Several other police officials were killed and Prilepin was left maimed and an invalid.

Lt Gen Malyuk confirmed the highest-profile Ukrainian-backed assassination attempt was against Aleksandr Dugin, a Russian philosopher and close ally of Vladimir Putin.

Dugins daughter was killed in the failed plot when she switched cars with her father on Aug 20 2022.

Lt Gen Malyuk said the number of killings was substantial, without confirming an exact figure, and added more are likely to take place.

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Ukraines Defence Minister Rustem Umierov, together with Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, held a video call with the Minister of Defence of Lithuania, Laurynas Kasciunas.

Source: Defence Ministry

Details: Syrskyi and Umierov congratulated Kasciunas on his recent appointment to the position.

Lithuanian Armed Forces Commander Valdemaras Rupsys also participated in the video call.

Syrskyi briefed his Lithuanian counterparts on the current operational security situation on the front.

Quote from Umierov: "We discussed ways to expand our bilateral defence cooperation and thanked Lithuania for its unwavering support. We look forward to Minister Kasciunas's visit to Kyiv in the near future."

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The Russians attacked Ukraine with 13 Shahed drones on the night of 26-27 March 2024 and Ukraines air defence forces managed to down 10 of them.

Source: Ukraine's Air Force

Quote: "The enemy attacked [Ukraine] with Shahed type UAVs from Russias Kursk Oblast on the night of 26-27 March 2024.

A total of 13 enemy drones were deployed. Ten were downed within Kharkiv, Sumy and Kyiv oblasts."

Details: Units of anti-aircraft missile forces, mobile fire groups of Ukraine's Air Force and Defence Forces and electronic warfare systems were involved in repelling the Russian attack.

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Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba will arrive in New Delhi, India, on March 28, for a two-day official visit at the invitation of Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, the Indian External Affairs Ministry said on March 27.

Kuleba is scheduled to hold several engagements, including official meetings with Jaishankar and his deputy. They will address matters pertaining to the bilateral partnership and cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest.



Kuleba is also expected to engage with the business community during his visit.

Ukrainian-Indian Relations

Read also: Indian holiday turns nightmare: tourists duped into Russian military service  video

Kuleba earlier announced his plans to visit India in late March and discuss the involvement of Indian citizens in Russia's war against Ukraine, The Hindu reported, citing a diplomatic source on March 19.

He will reportedly talk about cases where fake Russian recruiting agencies deceived Indians into going to the front. In addition, they will discuss the involvement of some non-resident Indians who have volunteered to fight on the side of Ukraine.



India maintains a neutral position on Russia's war against Ukraine. Kuleba earlier criticized the country for ignoring Western sanctions against Russia and intensifying energy trade with the aggressor.



Read also: Major Indian refiner Reliance Industries rejecting Russian oil tankers amid US sanctions

Last time Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Hiroshima last year on the sidelines of the G7 summit. At the time, Modi expressed India's "clear support for dialogue and diplomacy."

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The Ukrainian government expects the European Commission to approve the reform plan under the Ukraine Facility in the coming weeks, which provides 50 billion in macro-financial assistance until 2027.

Source: Oleksii Sobolev, Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine for Digital Development, Digital Transformations and Digitalisation, writes Interfax-Ukraine, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Sobolev stated that the government anticipates relatively quick approval of the Ukraine Facility reform plan, which was developed in close cooperation with the European Commission.

The Ukraine Facility is a tool to support Ukraine's economic development and recovery, with Kyiv receiving financial assistance based on jointly agreed-upon plans and priorities between the Ukrainian government and the European Commission.

The tool is intended for use in 2024-2027 and has a total cost of 50 billion. Ukraine has already received its first tranche of 4.5 billion.

On 18 March, the government approved a reform plan for the Ukraine Facility, which serves as the foundation for financial assistance from the European Union.

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BEIRUT, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Nine people were killed and seven others injured on Wednesday in Israeli airstrikes targeting several towns and villages in southern Lebanon, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

Military sources, who spoke anonymously, said that one of the raids targeted a house in Lebanon's southwest village of Tayr Harfa, killing two Hezbollah fighters and three members of the Islamic Health Authority and injuring three civilians.

The Islamic Health Authority, an association affiliated with Hezbollah, was established in 1984 during the civil war and the Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon. Operating as a public utility, it offers first aid and has centers across the country.

According to the sources, another raid targeted a house in the town of Naqoura in southwest Lebanon, killing a member of the Amal Movement and three members of the Islamic Al-Risala Scout Association affiliated with the Amal Movement and wounding four civilians.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah said its fighters attacked the headquarters of Israel's 769th Brigade in the Kiryat Shmona barracks with dozens of rockets, as well as several other Israeli sites, including the Ruwaisat al-Alam, Branit, MisKav Am, and Ramim.

The Lebanon-Israel border has been witnessing increased tension since Oct. 8, 2023, after 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 388 people on the Lebanese side, including 247 Hezbollah members and 73 civilians, according to Lebanese security sources. 
Two Ukrainian prisoners of war, whom Russia handed over to Hungary last year as part of a group of 11 people, claim that Budapest has put forward a condition for them not to come back to Ukraine until the end of the war.

Source: European Pravda with reference to DW

Details: One of DW's sources spoke about the interrogation by the Russian Federal Security Service after the prisoners were brought to Moscow. "Hungary told Russia that our grandmothers could have been Hungarians, so they are taking their people," DW's sources added.

Former prisoners of war also claim that out of the 11 people Russia handed over to Hungary, only one is an ethnic Hungarian. "But I was told: either you say the right thing - that you are Hungarian - or there is no guarantee that you will be brought back," said one of them.

The 11 men were taken by plane first to Istanbul, then to Budapest. There, they were put up in a hotel and asked not to walk around the city until they received refugee status. The men were also allowed to call their relatives and invite them to visit.

Two of the men say that representatives of Hungary put forward a condition for former prisoners not to come back to Ukraine until the end of the war; otherwise, "such releases will not take place again."

In the end, five military personnel still came back to Ukraine by contacting the Ukrainian Embassy in Budapest for help: it helped with the documents and provided a diplomatic vehicle for escorting across the border.

After that, Vlasta Reipashi, as the former representative of the ommissioner for missing persons in Zakarpattia, confirmed the next transfer of prisoners of war from Russia to Hungary did not take place.

Background:

In June 2023, it became known that 11 Ukrainian prisoners of war had been taken to Hungary, allegedly with the assistance of the Russian Orthodox Church. At the time, the Hungarian official authorities denied any involvement in this.

Earlier, journalists had unofficially learned that Ukrainian defenders who had been transferred from Russia to Hungary were allegedly threatened with punishment in Ukraine if they decided to come home.

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 140-night 2027 world cruise would sail to 71 destinations across 40 countries.

Fares range from $91,500 to $840,000 per person, the latter a record for the company.

The ultra-luxury cruise line's annual around-the-world voyages often sell out fast.

What would you do with $91,500? If your answer is incredibly niche and something like "move onto a ship for four months while it sails to six continents," Regent Seven Seas Cruises has you covered.

Like other luxury cruise lines, Regent Seven Seas operates annual monthslong world cruises, many of which have sold out. If you've missed the opportunity to book its previous around-the-world voyages, here's your next shot: On Wednesday, the ultra-premium cruise line announced its newest global itinerary, a 2027 cruise to 71 destinations.

The 140-night sailing, known as the "World of Splendor," is an achievement in its own right. But not for any reasons you might expect: The most expensive cabin rings in at $840,000 per person, a record for the cruise line.

The Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings brands 2027 plan isnt exactly affordable compared to other comparable itineraries.

The Seven Seas Splendor is 55,498 gross tons and 735 feet-long. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Luxury Crystal and premium Oceania Cruises revealed their 2026 world cruises this month. The sailings start at $84,000 and $59,700 per person, respectively.

The cheapest cabin on Regent Seven Seas' 2027 itinerary is $92,500 per person.

At least the fare also includes more than 486 excursion options, first-class flights, WiFi, and alcohol, as is typical with the all-inclusive cruise line.

To some travelers, the World of Splendor could be worth its cost.

The itinerary would sail in three oceans to destinations like Sydney. zetter/Getty Images

After all, not everyone can set aside 4  months of their life to traverse 35,668 nautical miles and six continents on a high-end ship.

At the start of 2027, the then-seven-year-old Seven Seas Splendor will depart Miami on the 40-country voyage.

The itinerary's map includes stops in Cartagena, Colombia, pictured, and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. alexmillos/Shutterstock

From Florida, the ship would sail to South and Central American destinations, including through the Panama Canal, before heading to Los Angeles, according to a map of the itinerary.

On its way to Australia, the Splendor plans to dock at ports in Hawaii and French Polynesia.

The itinerary includes 14 overnight stays in destinations like Male, Maldives; Aqaba, Jordan; and Safaga, Egypt, near Luxor. Klas-Herman Lundgren / Getty Images

After a few stops in cities like Sydney and Cairns, Australia, the vessel would continue east into Southeast and South Asia, bringing travelers to the likes of Indonesia and Thailand.

From there, the globetrotting guests will be off to the Middle East and Europe.

The ship would stop in destinations like Dubai. Lu ShaoJi/Getty Images

After a transatlantic crossing, the ship plans to dock in Bermuda before sailing north to New York, concluding the 140-day journey.

This is the first time the company has tapped its 746-guest Seven Seas Splendor for the global trip.

The itinerary would be able to accommodate 44 more guests than Regent Seven Seas' 2026 world cruise on the Seven Seas Mariner. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The Seven Seas Splendor is one of the cruise line's largest ships  bigger than the one it's using for its 2023, 2024, and 2025 world cruises.

A floating resort of Splendor's size has become a necessity for the company's extended voyages: Demand is high. And its around-the-world cruises tend to sell out  fast.

Splendor's initiation would also mark the first time a world cruise guest could book one of the cruise line's plushest 4,443-square-foot Regent Suite.

The Regent Suite is more than 14 times as big as the ship's smallest guest cabin. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

This is no dinky interior cabin. The Regent Suite has its own spa, a $200,000 Hastens mattress, original artwork from Pablo Picasso, and a private butler.

These luxuries make it the most expensive option on the ship: The cabin is $840,000 per person  about $1.7 million for two guests.

Don't worry, the 4  months at sea would still be plenty lavish for all the other guests.

Beef tartare with sturgeon caviar served on Regent Seven Seas' newest ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur. Brittany Chang/Business Insider

Travelers could spend their 140 days at sea gaping at the ship's $5 million art collection or luxuriating under its more than 500 crystal chandeliers.

Dinners would be just as extravagant: The Seven Seas Splendor's five restaurants serve high-end bites like lobster tempura, steak tartare with caviar, and ravioli with a Parmesan and truffle sauce.

Regent Seven Seas says the Splendor will be stocked with 13,000 pounds of lobster, 14,000 pounds of filet mignon, and 150 pounds of caviar to accommodate these meals.

The Seven Seas Splendor has three lounges and a cigar club. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Booze is included in the fare, which means the ship would also carry 200 varieties and 58,000 bottles of wine.

Despite their relatively hefty prices, the ultra-luxury cruise line has had no problem filling its previous around-the-world sailings.

Regent Seven Seas isn't known to be ultra-affordable: Its cheapest 2024 itinerary, a seven-night roundtrip Miami sailing, starts at about $614 per person per day. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Andrea DeMarco, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, told Business Insider that the company is expecting "unprecedented interest" in the 2027 world cruise.

It wouldn't be unheard of. In the past four years, Regent Seven Seas' world cruises have continuously sold out in "record time" as the company, like many other cruise lines, has continued to see growing interest in extended cruises.

Read the original article on Business Insider
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for slavery reparations over the transatlantic slave trade, which deprived enslaved people of education, healthcare, opportunity and prosperity.

We call for reparatory justice frameworks, to help overcome generations of exclusion and discrimination, Guterres said Monday, which marked the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

We appeal for the space and necessary conditions for healing, repair and justice, he said.

More than 12.5 million Africans were forcibly transported by European merchants on their ships and sold into slavery. Some merchants profited off enslaved peoples labor. Those who survived trips were put on plantations in Brazil and the Caribbean.

This laid the foundations for a violent discrimination system based on white supremacy that still echoes today, Guterres said. Descendants of enslaved Africans and people of African descent are still fighting for equal rights and freedoms around the world.

A U.N. report issued last year said countries could consider financial reparations for the enslavement of people of African descent, but it recognized the process of making legal claims and identifying victims and perpetrators is complex.

Under international human rights law, compensation for any economically assessable damage, as appropriate and proportional to the gravity of the violation and the circumstances of each case, may also constitute a form of reparations, according to the report released in September.

In the context of historical wrongs and harms suffered as a result of colonialism and enslavement, the assessment of the economic damage can be extremely difficult owing to the length of time passed and the difficulty of identifying the perpetrators and victims, the report said.

Hilary Beckles, the chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Reparations Commission, echoed Guterress remarks.

This is the movement that will signal, finally, the collective victory of humanity, of good over evil, Beckles said, according to Reuters. The CARICOM Reparations Commission was created to pursue reparations from former colonial powers like Portugal, France and Great Britain.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
NEW DELHI, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Six Naxals, including two women cadres, were killed in a fierce gunfight with joint contingents of India's police and paramilitary forces in the central state of Chhattisgarh on Wednesday, police said.

The gunfight broke out in the forest area of Basaguda in Bijapur district, about 481 km south of Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh.

According to police, the gunfight occurred during a search operation by the joint contingents.

On specific intelligence information about the presence of Naxals, a joint team rushed to the spot, and in the exchange of fire between the two sides, six Naxals, four men and two women, were killed, senior police officer P Sundarraj said.

"We have also recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition from the spot, besides their communication system," Sundarraj said.

According to Sundarraj, the government forces have not suffered any damage in the gunfight.

Currently, Naxals are active across central and eastern parts of India.

The insurgency has claimed hundreds of lives. 
Contemporary American artist Richard Serra, known for his massive yet minimalist steel sculptures, died Tuesday at age 85, US media reported.

His strikingly large pieces are installed all over the world, from Paris museums to the Qatari desert, and have sometimes sparked controversy over their imposing nature.

Serra died of pneumonia Tuesday at his home on Long Island, New York, his lawyer John Silberman told The New York Times.

Born in San Francisco in 1939 to a Spanish father and a mother of Russian Jewish origin, Serra studied English literature at the University of California before going on to study visual arts at Yale.

When asked in an early 2000s interview about what memory from his childhood might suggest who he would become, Serra said: "A little kid walking along the beach for a couple of miles, turning around, looking at his footprints and being amazed at what was on his right one direction, when he reversed himself was now on its left."

He says it "startled him and he never got over it."

His signature giant scale was present in the off-kilter reddish-brown rectangles installed in Paris's Grand Palais for his 2008 "Monumenta" exhibit, and in the swirling and twirling steel plates enveloping visitors in their curves seen in the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain.

Serra, who credited influences from France, Spain and Japan on his artistic style and his evolution from painting to sculpting, moved to New York in the late 1960s, operating a furniture removal business to make ends meet. He even employed the composer Philip Glass as his assistant.

That was also the period in which Serra composed a manifesto detailing the ways he could create a work of art: he listed 84 verbs, such as "roll" and "cut," and 24 elements, including "gravity" and "nature," which he could employ to forge a composition.

Serra did not begin to work predominantly in steel until the 1970s, in an echo of the summer steel mill jobs of his youth.

He designed sculptures specifically for the spaces they were destined to occupy, and said he was interested in examining how his works interacted with their environments.

"Certain things... stick in your imagination, and you have a need to come to terms with them," Serra told US interviewer Charlie Rose in the early 2000s.

"And spatial differences: what's on your right, what's on your left, what it means to walk around a curve, looking at a convexity and then looking at a concavity -- just asking fundamental questions about what you don't understand, those things have always interested me," he said.

That exploration of sculpture in its environment is visible in one of Serra's most controversial works, titled "Tilted Arc," which was installed in New York in 1981.

The 12-foot (4-meter)-high rust-coated metal plate curved its way through the Federal Plaza in Manhattan for 120 feet, set at an angle that made it look like it could topple over at any second. The structure so disturbed local residents that it was removed in 1989 following a long legal battle.

bur-caw/des
The U.S. and South Korea held their first joint meeting on March 26 of a new task force aimed at combatting the illegal import of oil to North Korea, the South Korean Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The two countries also said they were increasingly concerned that Russia has been providing refined oil to North Korea.

The warning followed similar reporting by the Financial Times (FT) the previous day. Citing satellite imagery, FT wrote that Russia has likely been defying U.N. sanctions by supplying North Korea with oil, likely in exchange for weapons.

According to the statement by South Korea's Foreign Ministry, the newly created "Enhanced Disruption Task Force" was "launched to more effectively block key resources and funding sources needed for North Korea's nuclear and missile development."

Pyongyang is subject to a strict limit on oil transfers imposed by the U.N. Security Council in 2017 after a series of nuclear weapons tests. According to the cap, North Korea can import no more than 500,000 barrels of refined oil per year.

Despite these measures, the Foreign Ministry, citing a U.N. report released earlier in March, estimated that North Korea was still able to import more than 1.5 billion barrels of refined oil in the first nine months of 2023. It is unclear what percentage of these imports may have come from Russia.

North Korea has been shaping to be Russia's leading weapons supplier, reportedly providing Moscow with extensive military packages, including ballistic missiles and over 3 million artillery shells.

There have been at least 10 cases of Russia using North Korean missiles to strike Ukraine, said Jung Pak, a U.S. State Department official, in an interview with Voice of America (VoA) on March 18.

One of the first cases of Russia using North Korean ballistic missiles was recorded in December 2023 during an attack on Zaporizhzhia, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) wrote.

Later on, Russia's use of North Korean missiles was officially confirmed in the attack on Kharkiv on Jan. 2.

Read also: Russias war effort may not be as formidable as it looks

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The US Department of State has stated that it has not changed its position on Ukrainian strikes targeting Russian oil refineries and does not encourage such attacks.

Source: Ukrinform news agency, citing Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the US Department of State

Quote: "It has always been our position since the outset of this war that we do not encourage or support Ukraine taking strikes outside its own territory."

Read also: "The burning shall continue": What lies behind Ukraine's attacks on Russia's oil refineries, and how have they impacted the Kremlin?

Details: When asked whether the US had been in contact with Ukraine after yet another Ukrainian strike on a Russian refinery in the city of Samara earlier, Miller refused to comment on any diplomatic engagement.

Instead, he noted that the US position he voiced reflected a "longtime policy" of the US, which was clearly conveyed to Ukrainian partners.

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Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari writes a message of condolences at the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan, on March 27, 2024. Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday expressed condolences to Chinese citizens killed in a terrorist attack while visiting the Chinese embassy in Pakistan. (PID/Handout via Xinhua)

ISLAMABAD, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday expressed condolences to Chinese citizens killed in a terrorist attack while visiting the Chinese embassy in Pakistan.

In a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, Zardari assured that the terrorists involved in the gruesome act would be apprehended, and his country would not let terrorists undermine Pakistan and China's shared goals for peace, prosperity and security in the region.

Five Chinese nationals and one Pakistani were killed when a vehicle from the Dasu Hydropower Project, being constructed by a Chinese company in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, was attacked by terrorists on Tuesday afternoon, the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan confirmed in a statement.

Jiang said that the builders of the Dasu hydropower project and other China-Pakistan cooperation projects have made outstanding contributions to the economic development and improvement of people's livelihood in Pakistan, and it is unjustifiable for terrorists to carry out criminal attacks against them.

"China has noticed that the entire Pakistani society has formed a strong momentum to condemn terrorism. We hope and believe that this momentum will be transformed into effective measures to strengthen the security of Chinese personnel in Pakistan," he added.

China requires Pakistan to speed up the investigation, severely punish the perpetrators, make the terrorists pay the price they deserve, and urges Pakistan to implement anti-terrorism operations as soon as possible to form a strong deterrent to terrorist forces, the Chinese ambassador said.

"China is willing to continue to promote bilateral cooperation with Pakistan, expand the social foundation of China-Pakistan friendship, and squeeze the living space of terrorist forces," he added.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level emergency meeting on the same day, which was attended by Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir, federal ministers, chief Ministers, chief secretaries and inspector generals of police of respective provinces, according to Prime Minister's Office.

The meeting decided to use all the resources of the state to conduct a thorough joint investigation of the Dasu terrorist attack and vowed to bring perpetrators of this barbaric act to justice swiftly, a statement said.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet. 
THE HAGUE, March 27 (Xinhua) -- The popularity of Chinese New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) is soaring in the European market, a Dutch auto dealer told Xinhua in a recent interview.

The number of new Chinese EVs in the Netherlands has increased five-fold in the last three years, said Lucas Van Schijndel, general manager of BYD Louwman.

Louwman Group has been collaborating with Chinese automaker BYD since 2022. BYD Louwman currently operates eight stores across the Netherlands, including in Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

"We will open new dealerships at a number of strategic points around the country and make BYD accessible to everyone," Van Schijndel said.

Dutch consumers have been surprised by the quality and innovation of BYD cars, he added. "The cars feel solid, and nice materials are used that contribute to this feeling."

"From the blade battery to the 8-in-1 powertrain, everything is developed in-house at BYD," he explained.

Van Schijndel highlighted BYD's position as a major contender in the European market, due to its rapid advancement and strategic investments, such as opening a factory in Hungary.

"The car market is a global market. China has invested heavily in electric driving in recent years. Hence, you see many recent collaborations between European and Chinese manufacturers. Ultimately, it strengthens the sustainability of the global car fleet," he said.

The future is bright for NEVs, Van Schijndel said, especially as Europe is shifting its focus towards electrification in the drive to phase out combustion engine vehicles by 2035. 
Claims of rebels capturing thousands of Ethiopian soldiers in the countrys restive Amhara region have become a popular disinformation topic on social media. One post recently featured a video of men in civilian clothes being marched down a mountainside by armed individuals. However, the captives in the footage were not Ethiopian troops: officials said the clip showed labourers from southern Ethiopia who had been snatched by militia in Amhara while heading to work on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) in neighbouring Benishangul Gumuz region.

Thousands of soldiers of the regime have been captured, reads a line of Amharic text on a TikTok video posted to Facebook on March 1, 2024.

The video has since been removed from TikTok but garnered more than 110 shares and 1,300 likes on Facebook.

Another strip of text at the bottom of the footage reads: Drive these invaders like cattle.

Screenshot of the false post, taken on March 25, 2024

The name of the Facebook page where the video was posted translates from Amharic to The Amhara Fano.

The Fano are an Ethiopian rebel group in the Amhara region. They have been fighting Ethiopian troops -- referred to as invaders in the text overlay of the misleading video -- since July 2023.

Another Facebook post shared the footage on the same day, claiming it showed soldiers captured by Fano in the Gojjam zone in Amhara in what it termed an Adwa victory.

Adwa refers to a battle in 1896 when Ethiopia defeated invading Italian forces.

Conflict in Amhara

The armed conflict in the Amhara region has caused civilian deaths and a severe humanitarian crisis. In February 2024, the Ethiopian parliament voted to extend a state of emergency first imposed in August 2023 across the region (archived here).

Local media reported that fighting recently intensified in many zones in Amhara, including Gojjam, North Shoa, Gondar and Wollo (archived here).

However, the claim that the footage shows government soldiers captured by Fano is false.

Labourers from Gardula

AFP Fact Check conducted a keyword search in Amharic for people captured by armed groups in Amhara region.

One of the results included this article reporting that the people shown in the footage were labourers from the Gardula zone in the Southern region who were abducted by Fano fighters while on their way to work on clearing forests for the GERD  a multibillion dollar hydro project on the Blue Nile nearing completion (archived here).

The Addis Stanard article, published on March 7, 2024, featured a screenshot from the video.

Screenshot of the story by Addis Standard, taken March 26, 2024

The GERD is located in the Benishangul Gumuz region, in an area bordering Amhara known as Guba.

Map of East Africa showing the Nile and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (LAURENCE CHU, AUDE GENET, JANIS LATVELS / AFP)

Fano allegedly captured the workers near Debre Markos in Amhara's Gojjam zone in late February 2024.

Screenshot of a Google Map showing distance between Debre Markos and Guba, taken on March 26, 2024.

In a press statement (archived here) issued on Facebook a day before the Addis Standard article, local officials from Gardula said that footage was circulating showing labourers being escorted to unknown locations by Fano militia fighters.

On March 11, 2024, an independent Ethiopian journalist shared copies of official-looking documents on Facebook (archived here), which indicated that a construction company had asked to hire several hundred labourers from the Gardula zone. Their demand had been approved by the labour and social affairs bureau.

Screenshot of the official documentation published on Facebook by an independent journalist, taken on March 26, 2024

Captives freed

The state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporate (FBC) reported on March 23, 2024, that the army had freed 271 people who were kidnapped by Fano (archived here).

The story included a picture of the freed labourers.

AFP Fact Check identified individuals wearing the same clothes in the FBC image published following after their release and in the footage of their capture.

Screenshots of the false post (left) and the FBCs picture, taken on March 25, 2024

Screenshots of the false post (left) and the FBCs picture, taken on March 25, 2024

On March 26, 2024, the Gardula Zone Administrator also confirmed in a statement that the labourers had returned to their homes (archived here).

The post also included images of the freed men.

AFP Fact Check has contacted the zone's administration for further comment and will update the story accordingly.

We have previously debunked similar posts about Fano capturing government soldiers here and here.
The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall exhibit held its opening ceremony Wednesday morning at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo with special guests to commemorate the special event.

Standing eight feet tall at its highest point and 360 feet long, the wall is a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., that travels the country, honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country. This exhibit allows visitors to experience the granite walls with the inscriptions of those who gave their lives in the nations conflicts.

Attendees look over the wall at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Brothers and Sisters of Our Military Adventures, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, and other veteran groups assisted in setting up and transporting the traveling wall. More than 60 veterans assisted in setting up the memorial wall.

Rodney Gonzalez, the Amarillo VA Healthcare Center's director, spoke about the traveling memorial wall's opening ceremony.

Rodney Gonzalez, executive director of the Amarillo VA Medical Center in Amarillo, addresses the crowd at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

It was just an honor to come here and give a shout-out to all of our veterans, especially our Vietnam War veterans, at this event, Gonzalez said. Having so many volunteers come and help set up this exhibit just shows the dedication of our area veterans. This memorial is a wonderful way to remember our veterans who gave all.

Gonzalez said that it meant a lot to see a West Point classmates name who died in Afghanistan on the wall.

It was a great time to remember his sacrifice in giving his life for his country, he added.

He said that this exhibit gives veterans, families, and members of the public a chance to remember these great veterans.

Attendees look over the names on the wall at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Many people have lost loved ones in Vietnam, and this exhibit gives those families a chance to see their name on the wall, Gonzalez said. Thank you, Vietnam War veterans, families and loved ones. We thank you for allowing us to see the selfless service that your loved ones gave to this nation, and your nation appreciates their service.

Rick Hatch, USMC Gunnery Sergeant and Vietnam veteran, addresses the crowd at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

The exhibit, which will be in place until 7 p.m. Thursday, will close one day before National Vietnam Veterans Day. A ceremony will be held at the Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center at 1 p.m. Friday to honor all soldiers who died in wartime and area veterans for their service.

The crowd stands to observe the flag at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Tim Reid, executive director of the Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center, spoke about the importance of honoring the veterans of the Vietnam War and other wars.

Only one percent of our population serves in the military, and the other 99% bears the fruit of their service because we are allowed to do the things that we do, Reid said. "We owe a great debt to give back to honor and remember them.

A veteran salutes the colors at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Reid said that the traveling wall coming to Amarillo days before the Vietnam Veterans Day is perfect timing to give tribute to those who served.

I do not know if patriotism is losing its flavor, but coming to an event like this, it ties you back into who we are as a people in the United States," he said. It really speaks to what we are as a people as an example of what we should be.

A family looks over the names on the wall at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Larry McCormick, an Army veteran of the Vietnam War, said it touched him to see the traveling exhibit to come to Amarillo to honor those who fought in the war.

I lost a friend, Thomas Hughes, who passed away, and seeing the remembrance of those who fought for this country means a lot to me, McCormick said. "Seeing all of these people show up for this ceremony, especially the younger generation, I think it is important to celebrate the country and the veterans who served it. It is important to teach the children about those who fought to make this country what it is.

A couple looks over the wall at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Veterans stand at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Veterans and families attend the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Ameka Mobley of the Ussery-Roan Veterans Home accepts a plaque for the facility's namesakes at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

The Tascosa JROTC Marine Color Guard bring the colors to the front at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Local veteran volunteers help set up the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Tuesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Attendees look over the wall at the opening ceremony for the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Wednesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association escorts the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Tuesday at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall opens Amarillo exhibit with ceremony
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  The widow of a Vietnam War veteran is in the process of having her home renovated as a result of a community partnership with a local non-profit.

Annie Woods was married at the age of 21 to Irvin Woods, a Vietnam war veteran who passed away in 1999.

Woods, who has lived in this house since 1983 when she was pregnant, is excited to have her house renovated as the home has only had minor adjustments like paint and installation of ceiling fans.

This renovation will include a new kitchen and new bathroom. The rooms have received new appliances and remodels. Woods told WRBL she is excited to bake her infamous red velvet cake for her family for Easter in her new kitchen.

Its like a family house. This is where all the nieces and nephews visit me quite often. Its just a family place you know. Just a close-knit family, this is where they come. Annie Woods, widow of Vietnam War Veteran

Woods has two daughters and three granddaughters. During the renovation, one of her granddaughters housed her next door to her home. Woods says her grandchildren are excited for the new renovation as well.

This renovation took three days to complete and was made possible through a partnership with the non-profit House of Heroes and Hughston Homes.

WRBL had the chance to speak with Cameron Sizemore, the production manager of Hughston Homes, about the partnership.

The morales have been great. We all get along. The team we have created here at Hughston is just a very tight group and we all just work well together. Cameron Sizemore, Production Manager of Hughston Homes

WRBL also caught up with Shane Mcguigan, the production manager from the non-profit House of Heroes, who shared the impact of this partnership.

The only reason we are able to do this project is because Hughston Homes stepped up and was able to provide the skill set, the manpower, and the budget of this because it went over our budget a lot. Shane Mcguigan, project manager House of Heroes

Mcguigan also told WRBL the impact this project has on his organization  House of Heroes.

Not only do we give back to the community, but we give back to those whove served and gave so much for us to be able to do the things that were doing here, Mcguigan shared.

In the honor ceremony hosted at the home of Annie Woods, she was given a flag that was flown over the capital in honor of her husband Irvin Wood, a Vietnam war veteran.

In an interview with Edgar Hughston, the head of development with Hughston Homes, shared he was honored to work with a team of men that can efficiently and quickly take on a job for good people that need it done.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
Israelis artillery soldiers fire a mobile howitzer in the north of Israel, near the border with Lebanon. Ilia Yefimovich/dpa

Several people were killed in shelling across the Lebanese-Israeli border, security sources and the Israeli army said.

At least seven people were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the Lebanese border town of Habariyeh.

The killed were linked to the Lebanese Sunni Muslim group al-Jamaa al-Islamiya, which has close links to the pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement.

The Lebanese state-run news agency NNA said "enemy fighter jets had hit a medical centre" belonging to the Islamic group during the night.

It added that the strike killed seven medical staff and wounded four civilians.

The Israeli army confirmed it had attacked a military site in southern Lebanon.

"A major terrorist from the organization 'al-Jamaa al-Islamiya,' who carried out attacks on Israeli territory, was eliminated at the site," it said, adding that his companions were killed.

The Sunni organization from Lebanon had previously announced that it would support the Shiite Hezbollah militia's fight against Israel. The small group is linked to the Muslim Brotherhood.

Hezbollah announced in retaliation that its fighters fired dozens of rockets at the Israeli border town of Kiryat Shmona on Wednesday morning.

According to the Israeli rescue service Magen David Adom, a 25-year-old man was killed when a rocket hit a building in the town where he worked.

Hezbollah said in a statement that the killing of the seven "will not go unpunished."

Since the beginning of the Gaza war after the massacre by the Palestinian Islamist Hamas movement in Israel on October 7, there have been repeated confrontations between Israel's army and militant groups such as Hezbollah in the Israeli-Lebanese border region.

The Iranian-backed militia, which also has close ties to Hamas, has reported more than 240 fighters killed since the Gaza war broke out.

Civilians have also been killed in both countries as a result of mutual shelling. Tens of thousands of residents have also left their home towns on both sides of the border. It is the worst escalation since the second Lebanon war in 2006.
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin vetoed more than two dozen gun control bills Tuesday that had sailed through the state's Democratic-controlled General Assembly before landing on the Republican governor's desk.

"I swore to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia and today, Ive done exactly that," Youngkin said Tuesday in a comment provided to Fox News Digital.

All in, Youngkin took action on a total of 67 bills on Tuesday  including vetoing 30 gun control bills that would "punish law-abiding gun owners," according to a press release from the governor's office  amended six other bills related to gun safety and signed four other bills into law that "make it harder for criminal to use guns in commission of a violent act."

One of the top pieces of legislation Youngkin vetoed would have made it a misdemeanor to import, sell, manufacture, purchase or transfer so-called "assault firearms," which are typically understood as semi-automatic firearms such as AR-15s, and high-capacity magazines made after July 1. Versions of that legislation were introduced and passed in both the state House and Senate.

REPUBLICAN VIRGINIA GOV. YOUNGKIN TO REVIEW DEMOCRAT-LED GUN CONTROL MEASURES

"The Constitution precludes the Commonwealth from prohibiting a broad category of firearms widely embraced for lawful purposes, such as self-defense. Despite this, certain members of the General Assembly have pursued legislation banning most contemporary semiautomatic firearms and specific ammunition-feeding devices," Youngkin said in a veto statement on the pair of bills.

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"Virginia has some of the strictest gun laws in the country. Unfortunately, the Commonwealth has reduced penalties for criminals, contributing to violent crime. Enhancing penalties for crimes committed with firearms will reverse this trend. Our most significant gap, however, has been in our behavioral health system, which is why substantial investments in behavioral health are necessary," he added.

GUN RIGHTS SUPPORTERS RALLY AT VIRGINIA CAPITOL ON ANNUAL 'LOBBY DAY'

Youngkin also vetoed another bill, HB 916, which would have required state police to establish a tracking and reporting system for the state's already established red flag laws, and provide updates to lawmakers on a regular basis on where red flag orders were being issued. He also vetoed a pair of bills that would have imposed a five-day waiting period for gun purchases, which would begin when a gun purchaser agrees to a background check.

"The proposed waiting periods would impede individuals facing threats of violence from promptly acquiring a firearm for self-defense," the governor said in a veto statement.

AR-15 style rifles are displayed for sale at Firearms Unknown, a gun store in Oceanside, California, U.S., April 12, 2021.

The Republican governor also vetoed House Bill 454 and its Senate version, SB 383, which would have banned guns on college campuses and buildings owned by public universities and institutions of higher education.

"The Boards of Visitors at Virginia's institutions of higher education already have the authority to regulate their respective campuses, including implementing firearms prohibitions. This allows for consideration of the differences across regions and students' unique circumstances," Youngkin said in a veto statement.

FEDERAL JUDGE RULES IT UNCONSTITUTIONAL TO BAN GUNS FROM POST OFFICES

The executive director of the NRA-ILA, the National Rifle Associations lobbying arm, celebrated the governors vetoes as a "refusal to bow to unconstitutional overreach."

"Governor Glenn Youngkin's courageous veto of dozens of ill-conceived gun control bills is a resounding victory for the Second Amendment in Virginia. His refusal to bow to unconstitutional overreachstopping widespread bans on semi-automatic firearms, blocking ill-conceived laws like arbitrary waiting periods, and unjust age restrictionsunderscores his fierce commitment to safeguarding our fundamental rights," the NRAs Randy Kozuch said.

"This is a clear message: Virginia stands firm against the erosion of our liberties. NRA members in Virginia and across the country salute Governor Youngkin's unwavering resolve to defend the rights of all Virginians against these flagrant assaults on our self-defense rights and our ability to protect ourselves and our loved ones."

The flood of gun control bills comes after Democrats saw big wins in local elections, holding control of the State Senate, and claiming control of the House of Delegates following Election Day 2023. Youngkin, earlier this month, had signaled he was likely set to veto many of the gun control bills after vetoing a piece of legislation on March 8 that would have required individuals accused of domestic violence and subject to a protective order to turn over their firearms.

Republican Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin on Friday called a special election to replace a state delegate who recently resigned.

VA GUN CONTROL BILLS ADVANCE IN LEGISLATURE AFTER RECENT SHOOTINGS AT UNIVERSITY, ELEMENTARY CAMPUS

"I strongly urge the General Assembly to shift its focus towards proven strategies aimed at combating violent crime, mandatory minimums for armed criminals and the presumption against bail," Youngkin said in a statement earlier this month.

The General Assembly can override the vetoes with a two-third majority vote from both houses, but Democrats do not have the numbers to support that effort, the Associated Press previously reported.

Democrats in the state argue that stricter gun control laws would drive down crime and violence, while pointing to mass shootings such as the one at UVA's campus in 2022 as evidence that laws need to change. Republicans have meanwhile argued that criminals will skirt gun laws and that tougher crime policies would better drive down violence than restricting gun access for law-abidding residents.

"I swore an oath to defend the Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of Virginia, and that absolutely includes protecting the right of law-abiding Virginians to keep and bear arms," Youngkin said in the press release. "I am pleased to sign four public safety bills which are commonsense reforms with significant bipartisan support from the General Assembly, and offer recommendations to several bills which, if adopted, will make it harder for criminals to use guns in the commission of a violent act."

Youngkin signed four public safety bills into law, including HB 36 & SB 44, which prevents parents from willfully allowing their children access to firearms if they pose a credible threat of violence. And another pair of bills, HB 22 & SB 21, which prevent the manufacture, transfer or possession of a device that can convert a gun into an automatic firearm, known as an auto sear.

The total list of bills Youngkin vetoed include: HB 2 & SB 2; HB 454 & SB 383; HB 585; HB 637; HB 79; HB 799; SB 258; HB 1195 & SB 273; HB 183 & SB 368; HB 1462 & SB 447; HB 318 & SB 491; HB 939; SB 338; HB 175 & SB 99; HB 1174 & SB 327; HB 798; HB 466; HB 362 & SB 642; HB 351; HB 1386, HB 916.





Original article source: Virginia governor vetoes dozens of gun control bills thwarting Democrat legislators
VisitScotland has announced it will close its 25 information centres over the next two years as part of a new strategy to influence tourists in the planning stage of their trip.

The organisation said most visitors now used online resources and specialists for research and bookings.

There will be no compulsory redundancies as a result of the shift to a "digital first" strategy.

The iCentres will operate as usual until the end of September.

VisitScotland said it was currently engaging with stakeholders to discuss local arrangements ahead of a phased two-year closure programme.

But the UK government criticised the decision and urged the Scottish government to reconsider its plans.

The move follows the closure of 39 tourist offices between 2017 and 2019.

Staff affected by the latest announcement have been offered a range of options including reskilling, redeployment and voluntary redundancy.

VisitScotland chairman Lord Thurso said research had shown it had a "more impactful" role to play in providing information before people travel.

He said: "The tourism landscape has changed significantly in recent years.

"The demand for iCentres has reduced while the demand for online information and booking has continued to grow.

"In order to continue building demand and growing the value of tourism and events, it is vitally important that we target channels we know visitors use to influence them to visit Scotland."

The iCentres currently operate during office hours and offer booklets and leaflets promoting specific locations, landmarks and attractions.

Lord Thurso added: "Our research shows that as an organisation, we have a greater and more impactful role to play in providing information before visitors travel.

"Prioritising a digital first model of information provision allows us to reach potential visitors at those early planning stages when we can shape their future travel decisions."

The national tourism organisation said the new approach would help to deliver its core purpose to drive the visitor economy as well as expand its reach and influence in Scotland's key global markets.

VisitScotland said its decision also recognised the shift from in-person and print media to sources including social media and influencer marketing.

'Golden goose'

But UK Minister for Scotland John Lamont said the closures would be a "blow to our towns" and put those who use their services at a disadvantage.

He added: "While online tourism is growing, it is not available to all and these centres from Lerwick to Dumfries ensure vital information can be accessed by those tourists, particularly the elderly.

"I'd urge the Scottish government to consider the impact this will have on local businesses and on visitors to areas where tourism is a huge part of the local economy."

Louise MacLean, of the Scottish Hospitality Group, described tourism as the country's "golden goose" and expressed concern that the loss of iCentres would cut off those who were not digital savvy.

She told BBC Radio Scotland's Lunchtime Live programme: "It is a sign of the times but I am not sure that it is going to work for everyone."
Victims of voter intimidation in Pennsylvania would have legal standing to sue people criminally convicted of interfering with polling places under a bill passed Tuesday by the state House Judiciary Committee.

Sponsored by Rep. Stephen Kinsey, D-Philadelphia, House Bill 461 would allow victims to sue for punitive damages and attorney fees. The law would apply to defendants who are convicted of violating the Pennsylvania Election Codes provisions against voter intimidation.

More: Pa. Department of State launches training team to support county election directors

The bill passed 14-12 in a party line vote, with Republicans in opposition, and now goes to the full House for consideration.

Rep. Stephen Kinsey

Kinsey said during a Judiciary Committee meeting Tuesday that voter intimidation has been a longstanding problem, as communities of color have faced intimidation since the 19th century, and remains an issue today, with extremist groups posting watchers at drop boxes in Arizona last year.

Fourteen states have passed laws to protect election officials, staff and volunteers, Kinsey noted.

I applaud what those states have done to protect their election officials and election workers. However, I ask you to join me in strengthening our laws to protect the people who are legally qualified to vote. Im talking about over 9 million qualified voters in the state of Pennsylvania, Kinsey said.

Rep. Chris Rabb, D-Philadelphia, asked whether the definition of voter intimidation would include misinformation intended to keep voters away from polls.

Working in the rough-and-tumble political environment of Philadelphia, Ive seen a few things, Rabb said. Weve heard things about saying Democrats vote on Tuesday, Republicans vote on Wednesday, or this is not your polling place  not being told by a polling a poll worker, an election board worker but someone else of trust.

Kinsey replied that disseminating false or misleading election information, including information on voting eligibility, polling place procedures, polling place hours or voting methods is among the acts considered to be intimidation.

Rep. Rob Kauffman, R-Franklin, said he was not comfortable with the bill, citing a lack of a definition of an aggrieved person who would have standing to sue over voter intimidation.

I honestly dont know that Im opposed to this. Im just not prepared to vote yes to it right now without further study, Kauffman said.

Pennsylvania Capital-Star is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Pennsylvania Capital-Star maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kim Lyons for questions: info@penncapital-star.com. Follow Pennsylvania Capital-Star on Facebook and Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: PA House panel OKs bill that would empower voter intimidation victims
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A man wanted on charges of criminally operating as a contractor without a license was arrested on domestic violence charges, according to court documents reviewed by the 8 News Now Investigators.

Alfred Lagunas, 72, is being held at Clark County Detention Center on a charge of domestic battery by strangulation, public records show. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 9 for a preliminary hearing.

In February, the state contractors board held a press conference to warn the public about the dangers of using an unlicensed contractor like Lagunas.

I thought I could trust him: Las Vegas woman loses savings to unlicensed contractor

The press conference was at the home of Barbara Ojito, a senior citizen who cares for her brother. Ojito said, I thought I could trust Lagunas, and gave him $8,000 of her savings to repair her roof and back porch.

And look what happened, Ojito said, alleging that Lagunas took off with her money and never completed the job. She says the porch is in disarray, needs masonry and other work, and that her roof leaks, electrical outlets are dead and she has no more money to hire a new contractor.

Bench warrant issued for unlicensed contractor after he fails to appear in court

Now Im stuck with this, she said.

Court records show Lagunas missed a court date on the unlicensed contractor charges on March 11 and a judge issued a bench warrant, but now that he has been arrested, Lagunas is due back in court in June. He is not being held in jail as a result of that case.

Lagunas faced similar charges for operating as a contractor without a license in Las Vegas Justice Court in 2014 and was sentenced to perform community service and pay restitution, according to Las Vegas Justice Court records.

The State Contractors Board says anyone planning to hire a contractor should research that person on the state-licensed contractor list on the Nevada State Contractors Boards website.

You can also call the board at 702-486-1100 if you need information not readily found on the boards website.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A Tampa airman who suffered post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after she was allegedly raped on an overseas base said the investigation that followed made her feel like a suspect, not a victim.

Senior Airman Chelsea Woodard, now stationed at MacDill Air Force base, detailed the ordeal that meshes with a troubling pattern of how military sexual assaults (MST) are investigated.

Woodard, 30, expected a long career in the Air Force when she enlisted seven years ago.

It was my retirement plan, she said. I wanted to serve and this was the answer.

Fight against sexual assault, harassment in military impacted by rank, other factors

But her dream took a nosedive about three years ago on Osan Air Base in South Korea.

A pair of short clips from the night of the incident show a smiling Woodard, celebrating her 27th birthday. But she recalls an airman she didnt know lurking in the shadows.

Everywhere I went, he was there, Woodard said. He was somewhere close. I kept seeing him, sort of in the background. No idea who he was.

Woodard said he followed her after the party and offered to take her home, but later trapped her.

He stood in front of the door, she said. I could not get out. I remember saying no.

Woodard said the next morning she was bleeding and at that point she realized she had been raped.

I remember crying, balling up on the floor, Woodard said. I went through this phase of who am I am? Why am I here?

Alleged sex crimes at MacDill involving kids under 7 being investigated; parents frustrated

After Woodard reported the allegations, she claims the base commander tried to disrupt the investigation. She said when she pushed back, she was the one who got in trouble.



They built up the paper trial to just defame me essentially, Woodard said. There were false claims of me coming late and leaving when I want to.



Woodard said nothing happened to the suspect, but she was treated like one.

Absolutely. I have been treated like a suspect, Woodard said. He got promoted and moved to another base.

(Photo credit should read KIM HONG-JI/AFP via Getty Images)

It got even worse for Woodard.



Two separate examinations by Air Force psychologists, glazed over her rape claim and suggested she was mentally ill. They claimed Woodard had PTSD and indicated she should be kicked out of the Air Force.

Based upon extensive evaluation, she does have a psychiatric condition rendering her unsuited for continued military service, the report stated.

I know that Im not crazy, Woodard said. I know that Im telling the truth. Then, to have people that wear the same uniform as me, paint me as crazy. I was angry.

Civilian clinicians would later diagnose Woodard with (PTSD) related to the sexual assault.

Beware of liens: Homebuyer could owe $90K more amid contractors lawsuit

But the government demanded yet another military examination. Finally, there was an about face in an Army psychologists report.



He determined she was not mentally ill and that the previous reports were wrong. Woodard was diagnosed with PTSD, with the symptoms developing after the alleged rape.

Woodard was relieved but still angered by the process.

They wanted me to give up, Woodard said. And I was not going to give up.

The investigation into the assault was dropped.

They closed my case without my knowledge, Woodard said. My victims counsel had to let them know you cant close a case without the victims knowledge.

Woodard and her attorney are currently fighting to reopen criminal investigation.

The Department of Defense Office of Inspector General is investigating how command staff at multiple bases have dealt with Woodards claim.

DOD data indicates Woodards ordeal is not unique. Military sexual assault is said to be underreported, and 60 percent of the victims who have reported the crimes claim they faced retaliation.

It has to stop, Woodard said. Thats why I wanted [the public] to know what happened to me.





For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Kuala Lumpur: India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, engaged in a fruitful discussion about the diverse connections between India and Malaysia during his visit to Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysian Foreign Ministry described the talk with his counterpart, Mohamad bin Haji Hasan, as "productive and honest." Jaishankar's visit to Malaysia marks the final leg of his tour across Singapore, the Philippines, and Malaysia.

During the meeting, held at Kuala Lumpur, both ministers exchanged views on various aspects of the bilateral relationship between Malaysia and India, alongside discussing regional and global matters of shared concern, as stated by the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The discussion also touched upon the potential exchange of visits at high governmental levels and the forthcoming 7th Joint Commission Meeting between Malaysia and India, slated for a mutually convenient time.

This encounter signifies the first interaction between Jaishankar and Hasan since the latter assumed office in December 2023, according to the statement released.

Later in the day, Jaishankar is set to meet Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo, as outlined by the foreign ministry.

The purpose of Jaishankar's visit is to bolster cooperation between India and Malaysia while fostering a deeper understanding of shared opportunities and challenges, the ministry highlighted.

The relationship between Malaysia and India is characterized by robust economic partnerships and strong interpersonal bonds. In 2023, India stood as Malaysia's 12th largest global trading partner, with trade valued at RM 77.76 billion (USD 16.53 billion), according to the statement.

How India and Philippines are Strengthening Ties: Insights from Jaishankar

India's Ability to Maintain Ties with Russia and US: Jaishankar Explains
LEHIGH ACRES, Fla. (WFLA)  A Florida deputy was called in for a slight false alarm when a resident needed help getting a snake out of their car engine.

According to the Lee County Sheriffs Office, a resident in Lehigh Acres called for help after supposedly finding a 15-20 foot python tangled in their cars engine compartment.

Since Sgt. Van Pelt was a licensed python contractor, he responded, expecting to find a giant python.

Venomous caterpillars emerging in parts of Florida

Instead, he found a smaller red rat snake, which was just trying to warm itself in the compartment.

While red rat snakes can reach impressive sizes, they get nowhere near as big as the invasive Burmese python, which averages about 16 feet in length but can exceed lengths of 22 feet. Police didnt say how long this red rat snake was.

Unlike the Burmese python, the red rat snake poses no threat to humans. Instead, the native rat snakes help keep rodent populations under control.

Van Pelt took the snake out of the car and set it free in some woods nearby.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
Federal investigators are just starting to examine what caused a container ship to crash into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge. But clues are already emerging  if you know how to read them.

Early Wednesday morning, divers were able to recover data recorders from the ship. On the scene in Baltimore, Jennifer Homendy, chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, said her team would be gathering any components, electronic logs, paperwork, pictures and other perishable items needed for its investigation, which must be collected before any clean-up operations can begin.

Those are just the first steps in a probe that could take a year or longer.

Heres POLITICOs guide to what happens next, and what to watch.

How does the investigation work?

The NTSB, an independent federal agency whose mission is probing accidents and recommending how to avoid them, will lead the effort.

The NTSB will look a range of factors, from the ships and bridges maintenance history, the ships data recorder, the crews actions, the bridges design, emergency response and a host of other considerations as it drafts a final report.



Jeff Guzzetti, a former NTSB investigator who is now a safety consultant, said the NTSB initially focuses on collecting perishable evidence  in other words, evidence that disappears when the scene is cleaned up.

That includes peoples memories, Guzzetti said in an interview, so theyre going to want to conduct interviews of the crew of the Dali as well as the people that perhaps did recent maintenance on the engines and electrical systems."

Guzzetti said the NTSB will break up into expertise groups to examine different factors  such as operations, the weather, engineering, recorded data, the people involved and other disciplines that are germane to shipping accidents like this."

The collection of the information takes time, said Homendy. Were here right now to collect data and get information, the perishable evidence that we need.

Are there any early indications about what went wrong?

In short, yes  though most transportation accidents of this magnitude are caused by multiple, cascading failures.

I am certain its not something simple, Guzzetti said.

The ship appears to have lost power, and, with it, propulsion, at a catastrophically bad moment.



Multiple videos taken of the harbor the night of the accident show the ship Dali as it careened toward the bridge and eventually hit it with a sickening shower of sparks. The ships lights can be seen turning off and back on again, and a plume of thick smoke jetting from one of its stacks, right before it hit the bridge.

It appears that they lost control of the steering of the vessel  that something mechanically went wrong, Guzzetti said. Ive been hearing that it could be bad fuel  if the fuel wasnt operating the engines, the engine doesnt generate electrical power, you lose your steering because of that.

Guzzetti said he expects that will be a key focus of the investigation  mechanical failure, possibly several, on the ship itself.

With the lights flickering on and off before the impact and that black acrid smoke spewing out of the stack, and with the way the vessel suddenly lost its steering and moved  leads me to believe that there was definitely some sort of malfunction with the vessel, he said. Investigators are going to hone in on exactly what happened and why they lost the steering.

Indeed, the Singapore Maritime & Port Authority said the ship had reported to them that it experienced momentary loss of propulsion directly prior to the incident.

The Francis Scott Key bridge doesnt seem to have been in poor repair  though there are questions about its design.

So far, it doesnt appear that the bridge itself was an issue in the disaster. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said in a press conference earlier this week that the bridge was fully up to code.

However, there are questions about whether the bridge, which was built in 1977, could have been equipped with fenders (sometimes called dolphins) around its support beams. These fenders are intended to help shunt errant ships away from those beams, but were not in use when the Key bridge was built in 1977.

Even so, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Tuesday that no bridge could have withstood the impact.

I do not know of a bridge that has been constructed to withstand a direct impact from a vessel of this size, he said. On Wednesday, Buttigieg compared the ship to a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, going directly into the key support beam of that bridge.

On Wednesday morning, Homendy said her agency would have a highway safety team on board to begin to look at the structure and identify any components that they need to send back to our lab.

The crews mayday  and quick police response  saved many lives.

At some point shortly before the ship hit the bridge, the crew or harbor pilot on board knew the ship was in dire trouble, and radioed a mayday to authorities that it was headed toward disaster.



That was just enough time for police to close off both lanes of the bridge to traffic, averting what could have been a much higher death toll.

The police on the scene had discussed radioing the construction crew working on the bridge to evacuate next, but just moments after, the bridge fell. Six of the workers who fell with the bridge are presumed dead.

Peder Schaefer contributed to this report.
State school Superintendent Ryan Walters looks over material at the February meeting of the Oklahoma state school board, Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024.

For a third time since last August, Oklahoma House Democrats are calling on Speaker Charles McCall to create a special bipartisan committee to investigate state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters, amid reports of possible misuse and abuse of federal tax dollars by the Oklahoma State Department of Education, which Walters leads.

Oklahoma City television station KFOR reported on Tuesday a "limited" federal investigation focuses on allegations of misuse of federal grant money. The television station said the U.S. Department of Education was reviewing how the OSDE paid a group of its employees who were sent to Tulsa Public Schools to serve as substitute teachers. The Oklahoman was unable to independently confirm the KFOR report.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Education denied it was investigating OSDE, saying what was characterized in the KFOR report as an investigation was simply routine monitoring.

The U.S. Department of Educations (Departments) Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) is not investigating the Oklahoma Department of Education for misuse of federal grant money," a federal agency spokesperson said. "Earlier this year, the Departments Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) conducted a regular consolidated monitoring for the Oklahoma Department of Education (ODE). OESE is currently working to finalize its report and will be communicating monitoring results directly to ODE.

House Democrats have been pushing McCall, R-Atoka, to investigate Walters since last Aug. 29, when they sent him a letter requesting he create a special bipartisan House committee to investigate whether sufficient grounds existed to impeach Walters. That request was denied. In mid-December, they asked again.

The third request differs in that instead of an impeachment inquiry, Democrats are asking for the financial investigation.

House Democrats have pushed for a bipartisan investigation into the OSDE for the past year regarding the misappropriation of taxpayer dollars, said House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City. The Speaker and Republican supermajority have refused to act, which has continued to embolden the State Superintendent. We have seen essential employees and cabinet-level officials resign due to lack of transparency from the department. Now, we get to see what happens when federal grant money is misspent.

Rep. Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City

A spokesman for McCall didnt immediately return a request for comment, but a spokesman for Walters quickly issued a statement in rebuttal of the Democrats call.

Once again, the radical left, aided by their allies in the fake news media, will stop at nothing to maintain their grip on Oklahoma schools, Walters said. I am directing more resources to assist Tulsa Public Schools in getting their students back on track and proficient in reading.

For months, Walters has threatened the Tulsa district with a reduction in, or loss of, accreditation if the district  the largest in Oklahoma  does not improve its test scores in math and reading. Hes required top-level officials from that district to make lengthy presentations each month at state Board of Education meetings.

Walters has been enveloped in controversy since taking office

Controversy has swirled around Walters since he took office in January 2023. He, the department and the state Board of Education, which he also leads, all are the subjects of multiple lawsuits and investigations. McCall and other Republican legislators had to issue a rare legislative subpoena to Walters in December to obtain information from the superintendent regarding state Department of Education operations and programs.

In recent weeks, Walters and the agency and board have been sued by Edmond Public Schools in a dispute over local control  Walters has said he and the state board have the power to determine what books should or should not be available in school libraries within an individual district. Reports have also surfaced about the agency spending $30,000 to hire an outside public relations firm to bolster Walters national media profile.

Since Walters became superintendent, the agency has seen a steady exit of talent. This month alone OSDE has lost at least three executive-level employees -- its general counsel, executive director of accreditation and chief of staff.

Oklahoma school districts also have complained about delays receive approval from the agency for what normally are routine applications for millions of dollars of federal reimbursement funds that flow through the agency. Stipends for student teachers, which also flow through the agency, also have been delayed, Democrats say.

Where is this money going? said Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa. Last week we learned of private companies listing the OSDE as their business address and contracts awarded to out of state vendors over Oklahoma companies. Where does it end? Every taxpayer dollar should be used in accordance with the law. I say this not just as a former school administrator, but as a concerned Oklahoma resident. While we continue to file legislation mandating transparency from OSDE, action needs to be taken now to address this mounting list of issues.

Added Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater: The actions of the State Superintendent continue to concern Oklahomans. As a legislature, we must work together to ensure proper oversight of the department.

Walters fiercest critic within his own party has been Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, who is the chairman of the House Appropriations and Budget subcommittee on education. Along with McCall and Rep. Rhonda Baker, R-Yukon, McBride sent the legislative subpoena to Walters in December.

Asked about the potential for an investigation, McBride said simply, I dont think the investigations have ever stopped.

The state Board of Education will hold its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Thursday.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma House Democrats again ask for investigation into Ryan Walters
Churches around the world will be holding services for their three most important days during this Holy Week: Holy Thursday, sometimes called Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

Easter commemorates Christs resurrection from the dead, the fundamental belief of Christianity. It is the earliest and most central of all Christian holidays, more ancient than Christmas.

As a scholar in medieval Christian liturgy, I know that historically the most controversial of these three holy days has been the worship service for Good Friday, which focuses on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Two parts of the contemporary Good Friday worship service could be misunderstood as implicitly anti-Semitic or racist. Both are derived from the medieval Good Friday liturgy that Catholics and some other Christian churches continue to use in a modified form today.

These are the solemn orations and the veneration of the cross.

Prayer and anti-Semitism

The solemn orations are formal prayers offered by the assembled local community for the wider church, for example, for the pope. These orations also include other prayers for members of different religions, and for other needs of the world.

One of these prayers is offered for the Jewish people.

For centuries, this prayer was worded in a way to imply an anti-Semitic meaning, referring to the Jews as perfidis, meaning treacherous or unfaithful.

However, the Catholic Church made important changes in the 20th century. In 1959, Pope John XXIII dropped the word perfidis entirely from the Latin prayer in the all-Latin Roman missal. This missal, an official liturgical book containing the readings and prayers for the celebration of Mass and Holy Week, is used by Catholics all over the world. However, when the next edition of the Latin Roman missal was published in 1962, the text of the prayer still mentioned the conversion of the Jews and referred to their blindness.

The Second Vatican Council, or Vatican II, a major meeting of all Catholic bishops worldwide held between 1962 and 1965, mandated the reform of Catholic life and practice in a number of ways. Open discussion with members of other Christian denominations, as well as other non-Christian religions, was encouraged, and a Vatican commission on Catholic interaction with Jews was established in the early 1970s.

Vatican II also called for a renewal of Catholic worship. The revised liturgy was to be celebrated not just in Latin, but also in local vernacular languages, including English. The first English Roman missal was published in 1974. Today, these post-Vatican religious rituals are known as the ordinary form of the Roman rite.

The completely reworded prayer text reflected the renewed understanding of the relationship between Catholics and Jews mandated by Vatican II and supported by decades of interreligious dialogue. For example, in 2015 the Vatican commission released a document clarifying the relationship between Catholicism and Judaism as one of rich complementarity, putting an end to organized efforts to convert Jews and strongly condemning anti-Semitism.

However, another important development took place in 2007. More than 40 years after Vatican II, Pope Benedict XVI allowed a wider use of the pre-Vatican II missal of 1962, known as the extraordinary form.

At first, this pre-Vatican II missal retained the potentially offensive wording of the prayer for the Jews.

The prayer was quickly reworded, but it does still ask that their hearts be illuminated to recognize Jesus Christ.

Although the extraordinary form is used only by small groups of traditionalist Catholics, the text of this prayer continues to trouble many.

In 2020, on the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the concentration camp at Auschwiz, Pope Francis repeated the vehement Catholic rejection of anti-Semitism. While the pope has not revoked the use of the extraordinary form, in 2020 he ordered a review of its use by surveying the Catholic bishops of the world.

The cross and what it symbolizes

The veneration of the cross is celebrated on Good Friday the Cathedral of San Giusto in Italy. Jacopo Landi/NurPhoto via Getty Images

There has been similar sensitivity about another part of the Catholic Good Friday tradition: the ritual veneration of the cross.

The earliest evidence of a Good Friday procession by lay people to venerate the cross on Good Friday comes from fourth-century Jerusalem. Catholics would proceed one by one to venerate what was believed to be a piece of the actual wooden cross used to crucify Jesus, and honor it with a reverent touch or kiss.

So sacred was this cross fragment that it was heavily guarded by the clergy during the procession in case someone might try to bite off a sliver to keep for themselves, as was rumored to have happened during a past Good Friday service.

During the medieval period, this veneration rite, elaborated by additional prayers and chant, spread widely across Western Europe. Blessed by priests or bishops, ordinary wooden crosses or crucifixes depicting Christ nailed to the cross took the place of fragments of the true cross itself. Catholics venerated the cross on both Good Friday and other feast days.

In this part of the Good Friday liturgy, controversy centers around the physical symbol of the cross and the layers of meaning it has communicated in the past and today. Ultimately, to Catholics and other Christians, it represents Christs unselfish sacrificing of his life to save others, an example to be followed by Christians in different ways during their lives.

Historically, however, the cross has also been held up in Western Christianity as a rallying point for violence against groups that were deemed by the church and secular authorities to threaten the safety of Christians and the security of Christian societies.

From the late 11th through 13th centuries, soldiers would take the cross and join crusades against these real and perceived threats, whether these opponents were Western Christian heretics, Jewish communities, Muslim armies, or the Greek orthodox Byzantine Empire. Other religious wars in the 14th through 16th centuries continued in this crusading spirit.

From the 19th century on, Americans and other English speakers use the term crusade for any effort to promote a specific idea or movement, often one based on a moral ideal. Examples in the United States include the 19th-century antislavery abolitionist movement and the civil rights movement of the 20th century.

But today certain ideals have been rejected by the wider culture.

Contemporary alt-right groups use what has been called the Deus vult cross. The words Deus vult mean God wills (it), a rallying cry for medieval Christian armies seeking to take control of the Holy Land from Muslims. These groups today view themselves as modern crusaders fighting against Islam.

Some white supremacy groups use versions of the cross

as symbols of protest or provocation. The Celtic cross, a compact cross within a circle, is a common example. And a full-sized wooden cross was carried by at least one protester during the Capitol insurrection in January 2021.

Prayers and symbols have the power to bind people together in a common purpose and identity. But without understanding their context, it is all too easy to manipulate them in support of dated or limited political and social agendas.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Joanne M. Pierce, College of the Holy Cross

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Joanne M. Pierce does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
A Chinese Coast Guard ship fires a water cannon at a Philippine Navy chartered vessel that was conducting a routine resupply mission to troops stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, on March 5, 2024. Credit - Ezra Acayan/Getty Images

For years, China has been testing the limits of its aggression in the South China Sea to see how much it can push before someone, meaningfully, pushes back. Its a dangerous game that recently left three Philippine Navy personnel injured after their resupply ship to the Second Thomas Shoalan atoll at the center of disputes over rival territorial claims of the all-important waterway through which a third of the worlds trade passeswas surrounded and fired upon with a water cannon by Chinese coast guard and militia vessels.

In video of the March 23 incident, crew members could be heard shouting as jets of water pummeled the Philippine ship, which sustained heavy damage.

CAUGHT ON CAM: A GMA Integrated News Exclusive: Tama na, Lord! Horror as China Coast water cannons Philippine resupply ship @24OrasGMA @gmanews pic.twitter.com/rUIKi8ws8O  Joseph Morong  (@Joseph_Morong) March 25, 2024

Its not the first such attack by Chinese forces on Philippine sailors, nor is it likely to be the last. But looming over the increasingly confrontational encounters between the two nations is the potential of future U.S. military involvement. A mutual defense treaty between Washington and Manila necessitates one to come to the support of the other in the case of an armed attackthough it remains unclear what exactly would constitute such. Responding to coercive actions in the grey zone is difficult precisely because the lines between peace and conflict are blurred, says Veerle Nouwens, executive director for Asia at the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

So far, Chinas actions have only elicited sharp diplomatic protests. After the weekend incident, the Philippines summoned a Chinese diplomat to condemn the aggressive actions by the China Coast Guard, while the U.S. State Department reaffirmed its support for the Southeast Asian country, with a spokesperson saying Chinas actions are destabilizing to the region and show clear disregard for international law. Chinas defense ministry, meanwhile, called the Philippines a provocateur, warning that it should cease making any statements that may escalate tensions and stop all acts of encroachment.

Whether the war of words could one-day morph into an actual war, however, analysts say, is dependent on a number of competing considerations.

Chang Jun Yan, head of the military studies program at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) in Singapore, tells TIME that there are three important variables the U.S. must prioritize: deterrence against China, reassurance to the Philippines, and diplomacy towards China. The U.S. cannot afford to abandon any of these three things, he says.

Theres also a fourth factor at play, says Joseph Liow, a professor of comparative and international politics and dean at Singapores Nanyang Technological University (NTU): U.S. domestic politics. If a conflict does break out in the South China Sea, how is the administration in power in Washington going to explain to its people that it is in their interest that the U.S. get involved in a conflagrationand in the process, risk going to war with Chinaover a bunch of rocks thousands of miles away? U.S. resources are already stretched thin by conflicts in Ukraine and Gazaand theres dissatisfaction among many Americans over U.S. involvement in both those crises.

Read More: The War in Gaza Is a Test of U.S. Power

It leaves the U.S. in a difficult position of weighing whether or not to intervene as it watches with interest the ongoing, growing spats in the South China Sea. In short, says Colin Koh, a senior fellow at RSIS, the U.S. has to draw a balance between doing nothing and doing too much.

Allowing Beijings aggression against the Philippines to continue unchecked would be detrimental to U.S. interests, says Kevin Chen, associate research fellow at RSIS. Chen tells TIME that the U.S. risks losing trade routes through the South China Sea, its standing as a security partner, and its access to bases in the Philippines, which would be invaluable in the event of a Taiwan contingency, should it leave the Philippines to fend for itself. Faced with Beijings assertiveness, the stakes are not only high for Manila, but for Washingtons credibility and defense strategy in the region as well.

For its part, the Philippines has taken a diplomatic approach to calling for the U.S. to get involved. Last year, President Ferdinand Marcos said the existing mutual defense treaty needed to be adjusted amid the South China Sea conflict and other regional threats. The situation is heating up, he said, calling for clarity on the U.S.s commitment. But speaking to Bloomberg last week, Marcos said that, while the U.S. has been very supportive, the Philippines cant fully rely on its ally should a crisis erupt: It is dangerous for one to think in terms of when something goes wrong, well run to big brother.

There are also clear risks to the U.S. intervening. Obviously, relations with China have been difficult for the last few years, says NTUs Liow. An outbreak of hostilities between these two great powers will be very dangerous, he adds. It is not in the interest of the U.S. to come to blows with China or vice-versa.

The U.S. has tried in recent years to reduce its tensions with China, with President Joe Biden saying during his recent State of the Union address that he seeks competition, not conflict. And its a thaw, importantly, whose consolidation Americas friends in the region support, says Ali Wyne, senior U.S.-China research and advocacy advisor at the conflict resolution think tank International Crisis Group (ICG). The Indo-Pacific, where the U.S. has increasingly sought to make diplomatic inroads, includes nations with close relations with China, like Cambodia and Myanmar, as well as ones that adhere to political neutrality in the great-power rivalry, like Indonesia and Singapore.

Regional states do not want to see war break out between the U.S. and China, says Chang. Ultimately, the use of force in the South China Sea will benefit no one.

That doesnt mean the U.S. is doing nothing. U.S. commitment clearly goes beyond rhetoric, says Chang, pointing to imposing sanctions, bolstering allies military capabilities, fostering economic partnerships, and supporting freedom of navigation rules in the region as indirect mechanisms of intervention.

The U.S. will likely continue, says ICGs Wyne, to impress upon China that an armed confrontation with the United States would carry severe security, economic, and diplomatic risks. RSISs Chen says this will primarily take the form of rhetorical supportin other words, more statements. We should also see more efforts by the U.S. to facilitate cooperation between third parties, he says, such as the upcoming U.S.-Japan-Philippines trilateral summit in April, as well as more joint patrols as a tangible reminder of U.S. defense support.

RSISs Koh tells TIME: We have to be realistic about what those current U.S. actions are, what they are designed for, what they are supposed to accomplish. Its too much, he says, to expect the U.S. to stop Chinese aggression. Rather, it appears the U.S. is seeking to contain itand on that, the U.S. has actually been relatively successful, so far. Because if you dont contain, then theres a likelihood that the Chinese get bolder and thereby they escalate even further. What the U.S. has been doing is drawing a line for China, not to cross.

Of course, the U.S. could change its tune if that line does get crossed. There are still possibilities for a sudden, sharp escalation, says Chen. Given the physical encounters at sea, it may not take long for an incident that causes Philippine fatalities. At that point, Washington would have to reassess its policies in deference to how Manila wants to move forward.

An attack that results in a death would arguably leave the U.S. with no choice. If the U.S. does not eventually back its allies when it said that it would, says Liow, the damage to American credibility and leadership will be consequential, perhaps even irreparable.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
The World Banks Board of Directors approved the decision to allocate 1.5 billion dollars to Ukraine as Growth Foundations Development Policy Loan (DPL), Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal reported on March 26.

Read also: Zelenskyy signs law unlocking World Banks $1.5 billion development loan to Ukraine

The funds are expected to be transferred to Ukraine by the end of March and will be provided under a USD 984 million guarantee from the Government of Japan through the World Banks ADVANCE Ukraine Trust Fund and a USD 516 million guarantee from the United Kingdom.

The funds raised will be used to support the State Budget of Ukraine and economic recovery, as well as to finance priority social and humanitarian expenditures of the State Budget, Ukrainian Finance Minister Serhii Marchenko said.

Read also:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy officially signed a law that strengthens the National Securities and Stock Market Commission (NSSMC) on March 25, being a critical step for Ukraine to receive a substantial $1.5 billion development loan from the World Bank.

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
Florida is no stranger to bridge incidents. In Jacksonville, a Navy ship hit the Mathews Bridge back in 2013. It didnt collapse, but it had to close for about a month.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Jacksonville maritime attorney Lindsey Brock of McLeod Brock law firm represented the state in that investigation. And based on his experience, he said what happened Tuesday morning in Baltimore was one of the worst things that could happen when operating a ship.

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I think what we saw was the complete collapse of the steel girder section, Brock said. And that really to me is a worst-case scenario.

Brock says he is still trying to grapple with the horror of Tuesdays tragedy -- when the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed.

Early this morning, the Dali vessel slammed into the bridge sending the entire structure into the water.

Its horror, Brock said. Its tragic to see a disaster like that where you have a complete collapse of a bridge knowing there are people likely on board that bridge, thats what was the most striking thing was the human tragedy of it.

Florida saw a similar catastrophe happen when the Sunshine Skyway Bridge collapsed in 1980.

RELATED: Tragic history: Sidney Lanier Bridge in Glynn County hit by ships in 1972 and 1987

Brock said this mornings disaster out of Baltimore could have had a lot of things go wrong  from human error to mechanical failure.

From everything Ive seen it looks like they did everything they could to try and avoid it, Brock said. It looked as though at least one anchor was let loose and caught at one point just before the allision.

Previous reports indicate this ship lost power, and a mayday distress signal was sent out to law enforcement.

RELATED: Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse: Here are major US bridge collapses caused by vessels

They were able to prevent some of the vehicles from going on to the bridge, hopefully saving some lives in that.

Brock says it looks like the people on board were trying to slow the ship down.

If you watch the video, theres a lot of black smoke coming out of the stacks of the ship, Brock said. That generally means that the engines are working hard. And at that point, the most likely theyre going to be working to try to stop the ship and put it in reverse.

READ: U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Sea Dog damaged during a return from sea to the St. Marys River

But even with slower speeds, Brock says the size of the ship is what makes the impact so severe.

According to Equasis, the Dali ship had an incident in 2016 when it hit a pier in Belgium.

Its never good when youve had a history of accidents like this, Brock said.

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Now, the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating whether there was criminal negligence.

READ: Tragic history: Sidney Lanier Bridge in Glynn County hit by ships in 1972 and 1987

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WYANDOTTE, Mich. (FOX 2) - After a 55-year-old woman was fatally stabbed, the accused killer set himself on fire as police were in the process of arresting him.

On March 23, coworkers of Hee Jung Pak-Kim reported that she had not come into work for several days, prompting police to check on her. Officers found Pak-Kim dead inside her Wyandotte home at the 2700 block of 10th Street.

Police suspect 59-year-old Sung Ho Jin stabbed Pak-Kim to death before fleeing the scene in her car, heading south.

Sung Ho Jin, 59, is accused of murdering a 55-year-old woman and fleeing to Ohio in her vehicle. As police were arresting him, the suspect set himself on fire inside the car.

Jin and the victim's vehicle were located in Akron, Ohio by the Akron Police Department on Monday, according to a police release. Jin led officers on a brief car chase. He then stopped the vehicle, got out, brandished a knife, reentered the car, and intentionally set himself on fire inside it.

While ablaze, the suspect jumped out of the vehicle  which is when the flames were extinguished.

Sung Ho Jin, 59, is accused of murdering a 55-year-old woman and fleeing to Ohio in her vehicle. As police were arresting him, the suspect set himself on fire inside the car.

The victim's friend, Angela Hasse, said the suspect made romantic and sexual advances towards Pak-Kim that got progressively more aggressive each time she turned him down.

"He's psychotic and he needs help. There's something wrong with him," Hasse said.

Hasse met Pak Kim 15 years ago when she was a nail artist turned entrepreneur who opened her own sushi spot in Southgate called SushiQ. The accused killer was hired as the head chef and was a friend of the victim's husband.

"She's an amazing person," the friend said through tears. "She would take care of her workers and give them a place to live if they didn't have a place to live. She was just that kind of person, had that heart."

Pak-Kim had given Jin a car and allowed him to live in her multi-family home in Wyandotte, where she lived.

Hasse said Jin's advances began after Pak-Kim's husband died last fall.

"He was making her feel uncomfortable. She didn't like to be around him by herself," she added.

It got to the point where Hasse and others offered her a place to stay to get away from him  even though he was staying at her home.

"Was the situation even worse than she was telling us?" Hasse wondered.

Hee Jung Pak-Kim

It is still unclear what caused Jin to murder Pak-Kim.

The victim's family is still in Korea. Her friends in Michigan want her to be remembered for her life, not her brutal death.

"I just want justice for her because she doesn't have anybody here to be her voice, so I feel like we need to be her voice for her as friends," Hasse said.

Jin was taken to an Ohio hospital where he is in police custody. He is still in critical condition after suffering burns on his face and body.
The family of Yia Xiong, speaking publicly for the first time since prosecutors announced they wont charge the St. Paul police officer who fatally shot him, said they are devastated, angry and confused by the decision.

But in his memory, I hope that St. Paul can learn from this, said his daughter, Mai Tong Xiong, who called for policy changes for police at a Wednesday press conference.

Xiong, 65, was partially deaf and didnt speak English, his family has said.

He was advancing toward officers with a 12-inch knife on Feb. 11, 2023, when Officer Abdirahman Dahir shot him, according to a summary of the investigation from the Ramsey County attorneys and Minnesota Attorney Generals offices released March 20.

Officers were responding to 911 calls at the apartment building where Xiong lived in the 100 block of South Western Avenue near West Seventh Street. The prosecutors said Dahir and other officers had no objective reason to believe that Mr. Xiong did not understand the multiple orders given to him by officers to stop and drop the knife.

Xiongs family said he lost his hearing in one ear from serving in the Secret War in Laos, a time when Hmong generals fought alongside the U.S in the Vietnam War.

As a refugee family, we sought refuge in this country with the hope of finding safety and a promise of justice and dignity, said Mai Tong Xiong.  It is painful that a veteran who  once fought for the principles this country stands for would fall victim to the very system meant to protect him.

The Justice for Yia Xiong Coalition is demanding that officials release all data in the case, including unredacted body camera footage. The police department released footage of the encounter soon after Xiong was shot. A spokesperson for the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which investigated, said Wednesday the case file has entered the redaction process and will be publicly available when its finished.

The coalition is also calling for Police Chief Axel Henry, Ramsey County Attorney John Choi and their staff to meet with the community for discussions about policy changes to prevent future deadly force incidents, especially with people with limited English skills or with disabilities. Three St. Paul City Council members on Friday issued a letter about similar policy changes.

Chois office is open to meeting, said Dennis Gerhardstein, a county attorneys office spokesman.

In a Friday statement from Mayor Melvin Carter and Henry, they said: As the men and women of the St. Paul Police Department stand up to respond to dangerous and dynamic situations on all of our behalf, we remain committed to the deep work of healing from this specific incident, and partnering with law enforcement and community partners alike to reduce encounters such as these, which place both public and officer safety at risk.

Mai Tong Xiong, who lives in Wisconsin, said Choi and Ellison met with her via a video call on March 20 to tell her about their decision to not charge Dahir, and Chois office released the information to the media soon after. They did not give us time to process the difficult news or share it with family members that were not present for the conversation or could not speak English, she said.

The Ramsey County attorneys office followed the same process as it has in previous cases, in terms of first speaking with family, officers and related agencies, and then releasing the information to the public, Gerhardstein said.

Mai Tong Xiong said it now pains her to come to St. Paul. Yia Xiong was a great father, a loving grandfather and had been married for more than 40 years, his daughter said.

I miss my father every day, she said.  I miss his video calls to my children. They ask about their grandfather every day.

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From the Capitolism on The Dispatch

On Monday, I was in USA Today talking about the National Association of Realtors settlement and the future of U.S. housing prices. For those unwilling to click, heres the even-shorter version: Yes, the settlement might lower realtor commissions and thus shave a few thousand bucks off a homes all-in sales price, but Americans shouldnt expect a reprieve from ever-increasing housing prices without far more fundamental reforms to occupational licensing, zoning and land use regulation, construction materials tariffs, and other policies that increase building costs and restrict housing supply. For frequent Capitolism readers, much of the op-eds thesis and evidence will sound familiar, and I normally dont pimp my non-Dispatch work up front here (seems gauche). But I mention it because theres a line in the op-edbolded belowthat Ive been meaning to expand upon here:

Research has repeatedly shown that the most effective check on skyrocketing home prices is simply to build more homes. One survey of the literature found that new construction of market-rate units in several U.S. cities moderated the prices of all types of nearby housing, both high- and low-priced. Recent experience shows much the same: places that have seen housing construction at rates above national or regional averagesAustin, Phoenix, Atlanta, Raleigh, Minneapolis and morehave enjoyed slower rent and home price appreciation.

This passage gets to the perhaps the biggest debate between Yes In My Backyard (YIMBY) advocates who want to deregulate housing markets and boost private housing development and those who have (presumably) good intentions but are far more skeptical of, or outright hostile to, such construction: whether building lots of new, market-rate housing helps Americans who cant afford it.

The last couple years have provided a definitive answer: Yes.

A YIMBY (and Filtering) Victory Lap

Weve already reviewed some evidence of this effect in Minneapolis, which experienced more market-rate construction and an across-the-board moderation in local housing costs after the city partially liberalized its zoning regulations. Since then, economists at the Minneapolis Federal Reserve dug deeper into the citys recent experience to explain how this effect worksa process called filtering:

Imagine that a renter named Jim moves into a brand-new market-rate apartment. A renter named Maria moves into Jims old unit, which is more affordable than Jims new place. Another renter is going to move into Marias old unit. The chain will likely continue to include several more units, each progressively older and more affordable. It will end when someone moves out on their own from a previously shared living space. This process of new construction encouraging mobility across the income spectrum is one piece of a phenomenon known as filtering. Theories connecting filtering to housing affordability are generally accepted among economists. For example, economic theory predicts that housing units should be relatively more affordable when the housing supply increases, as it does when new apartments open.

They go on to summarize important new research on filtering from Notre Dame economist Evan Mast, who examined housing construction in 12 metropolitan areas, including the Twin Cities, and found quick and significant price effects: Every 100 new market-rate apartments ultimately generated about 70 new openings for renters in lower-income neighborhoods after just five years. The Minneapolis Fed team then talked to local landlords, who confirmed similar effects on the ground (emphasis mine):

Owners and managers of older properties are well aware that new supply entering a market creates new opportunities for their renters to move up. Staff at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis recently wrapped up a research project that involved interviews with 16 large-apartment owners and property managers in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Regardless of whether they owned newer or older properties, these owners and managers often cited the increased housing supply in the region as a reason why rents at their properties generally had not increased very much in the past few years.

As noted, this phenomenon is a core part of the YIMBY argument: Building homes, even luxury ones, will benefit all homebuyers and renters, not just the rich ones (and certainly not just greedy developers). And the real-world evidence supporting such filtering is piling up.

In Austin, for example, the Wall Street Journal reports that home prices and apartment rents have fallen more than anywhere else in the country, following a period of substantial housing construction. (Lets ignore for now that the author bizarrely calls this overbuilding, even though he later acknowledges that Austin home prices still run 35% higher than what the citys underlying economic trends would typically support.) Here are the telling charts:

The Journal goes on to explain that the driving forces behind these price effects are good ol supply and demand. On the latter, the city is still growing above the national average but more slowly than in recent boom years. Yet its really the supply side where Austin stands out. Developers there have been building more apartments than in any other city, measured as a share of the existing housing supply, and not just a little more but a lot moretriple the national average, nine times that of San Francisco and Baltimore, and even greater multiples for other major U.S. cities:

The key to all this development, in turn, is the citys willingness to allow it. Economist Joey Politano, for example, recently showed that the Austin metro area (population: 2.4 million) permitted more housing units last yearespecially large (five or more units) apartment buildingsthan the Los Angeles (population: 12.8 million) and San Francisco (population 4.6 million) metros combined:

Housing economist Jay Parsons has even more data showing similar filtering effectsand faster than the five years indicated in Masts research. First, Parsons found last October that high-supply American citiesi.e., one with at least a 5 percent increase in housing inventory in 2022-23 experienced declining rents while low-supply cities saw increases, and that rents declined most not in the newest, high-end Class A apartments but in middle-tier Class B apartments that are mainly older. Even the most affordable (and typically oldest) Class C saw bigger declines than the luxury Class A units getting built:

Parsons provided additional evidence in February, examining the 12 U.S. markets where Class C rents had fallen at least 6 percent over the last year andto no YIMBYs surprisefinding that new construction is their common link: All 12 have supply expansion rates above the U.S. average.

Other cities, such as Oakland and Dallas, are seeing similar trends. After following Austins (and Raleighs) lead, Charlotte may be next:

Lower rents are coming to Charlotte soon. Why? They let people build housing. https://t.co/4cBQdA4ZPX (ht @andylancaster) pic.twitter.com/7eQ1CurDEl  Scott Lincicome (@scottlincicome) March 27, 2024

As I said in USA Today, this new evidence is consistent with piles of past research showing much the same thing: Permitting and building more market-rate housingeven luxury homes and apartmentsputs downward pressure on the price of all types of housing, benefiting all consumers in the long run. Its also consistent with research from markets outside the United States, such as Tokyo or New Zealand, which recently liberalized its zoning regulations and has enjoyed both a construction boom and moderating housing costs:

Just for good measure, heres filtering in Sweden and Finland, too:

Thus, as Parsons concluded last October, the lesson for policymakers here is clear: if you truly care about housing affordability and access, it starts by legalizing and approving a lot more housing. Fortunately, as the New York Times Binyamin Applebaum just explained, many places are taking note:

While the specifics vary, the common theme is allowing the construction of a little more housing in areas previously reserved for single-family homes. California passed a law in 2021 allowing the construction of up to four units on single-family lots, although local governments have found other ways to stymie development. California has been more successful in allowing homeowners to add an apartment to any residential property. More than 80,000 of these accessory dwelling units have been permitted since 2016. The cities of Minneapolis and Charlotte, and the states of Washington, Montana and Maine are among those that eliminated most single-family zoning in recent years. Communities across the country have made it easier to build accessory dwelling units.

These and other places give homebuyers, renters, and pro-building YIMBYs reason to celebrate.

But the Housing War Still Rages

That said, the war for American housing abundance is not yet won. Most obviously, not every U.S. city is building like the places above areand not just notoriously difficult markets like San Francisco and Los Angeles. Applebaum notes, for example, that the New York region has been particularly slow to embrace reform and get to building, even though Gov. Kathy Hochul has prioritized the effort. Per the following Politano chart, many places in the United States also remain supply-constrained:

Similarly, construction of new homes in the United States has improved but remains well below pre-Great Recession levels:

No surprise, then, that rents and home prices in many places are still high and rising. Parsons shows, for example, that many markets in the Midwest and Northeast continue to build slowly and are seeing higher rents as a result. In fact, even as rents moderated nationwide last year, 18 of the nations 150 largest metro areas still saw Class C (lowest-price) rent growth top 5 percent last year, and almost all of those places had little new apartment supply. As Harvard researcher Whitney Airgood-Obryck recently noted, while theres good evidence of filtering in high-supply areas, rents still rose in 91 of 150 markets at an average rate of 3 percent or more. Thats better than last year, sure, but its still growingand from a very high level.

According to Rent.com, in fact, rents last month were still 21 percent higher than they were pre-pandemic, while median home prices are almost 27 percent higher. Overall, most housing experts see housing prices remaining high because of a continued supply shortagesomewhere between 2 million and 7 million homes, depending on whom you ask. So, YIMBYs have won some big and important battles but still have a long way to go.

Anti-construction NIMBYism (Not In My Back Yard), meanwhile, remains a force in local politics. As I noted in 2022, for example, Raleighs pro-building city council was transformed that year, following a concerted effort by the Save Our Neighborhoods and likeminded groups who sought to oust local officials for their votes on local zoning deregulation and various construction projects. Since then, the city has rejected several big development proposals near the city center, and the NIMBYs are gunning for more. Other cities and states are seeing similar responses to pro-building effortsvetoing deregulation proposals or even rolling back past reforms (e.g., in Minneapolis).

NIMBYs have inherent political advantages common to most forms of protectionism: A small number of current (and vocal) residents enjoy concentrated benefits, at least in the short-term, while a bigger number of silent outsiders pay diffuse, mostly unseen costs. Just as importantly, the former group gets to vote, while the latter mostly doesnt.

As The Atlantics Derek Thompson writes, however, NIMBYism also benefits from factors unique to the U.S. housing market. For starters, most Americans think weird and conflicting things about housing. We want it to be a steadily appreciating investment (and thus might oppose efforts to lower prices), but we also want it to be affordable. And, likely because we only see expensive new construction and miss the unseen filtering, many Americans hold unique views about housing supply and demand:

In 2022, three economists asked several thousand Americans a few simple questions about how supply and demand works in various markets. For example, if automakers suddenly stopped making new cars and trucks, what happens to the price of used vehicles? Or, if a farm started using an amazing new fertilizer and got a huge boost in grain yield, what will happen to the price of the grain? Contrary to the assumption that Americans dont understand basic economics, the survey respondents did pretty well on the test. They correctly guessed that a shortage of cars would shift car prices up and that a surge in grain production would shift grain prices down. So far, so good. Then the economists asked the participants about housing. They said: If a new law makes it easier to build dwellings near train stops, what happens to housing prices? Well, all of a sudden, the laws of supply and demand no longer applied. More than a third of participants said that a large, exogenous increase in their regions housing stock would cause rents and home prices to rise. The public understands the implications of supply and demand in markets for agricultural commodities, for labor, and even for cars, a durable consumer good that, like housing, trades in new and second-hand markets, the authors wrote. Only when the subject is housing do many Americans despair that you can never build your way out of a shortage.

Finally, policies ostensibly intended to increase local construction can get crippled by advocates who attach certain stringsparking, bus stops, green space, etc.before letting people develop or expand the properties they own. In Seattle, for example, the city relaxed zoning regulations in certain neighborhoods but required developers to either reserve some units of each project as below market rate rentals or pay into a citywide affordable housing fund. As a result, developers appear to have strategically sited projects away from newly upzoned plots and instead to nearby blocks and parcels not subject to the programs affordability requirements. The affordability requirements thus act as a tax on some additional developmentconsistent with previous research. Thus, on balance, the cost of the affordability requirement to developers outweighed the benefit of additional units via upzoning, especially in areas zoned for low-rise development. Such strings certainly arent unique to Seattle and instead appear frequently when developers ask a city for an exception (variance) from certain zoning restrictions, such as building height. And the result is often fewer units built or, even worse, none at all.

Back here in North Carolina, for example, local governmentsseemingly oblivious to filteringhave blocked development plans because they lacked affordable housing set-asides. Onerous conditions attached to housing subsidies are another example of how (presumably) good intentions canvia higher costs, bureaucratic delays, and other problemsconfound private efforts to resolve real housing problems via relatively simple market solutions.

Summing It All Up

While it may seem obvious (especially to savvy Capitolism readers), the idea that adding market-rate housing eventually lowers home prices and rents for everyone has been hotly debated for years. While filtering skepticism never made much theoretical sense, we now have ample scholarly work and real-world experience showing that, yes, supply and demand work for housing too, and therefore that, no, we dont need elaborate, Rube Goldbergian government schemes to lower prices and rents for all Americans. Just build (and let people build), and itll work outand quickly. Given the filtering findings and how they support pro-building policy reforms, which do have some momentum today, YIMBYs have reason to celebrate (if not gloat).

Nevertheless, there are still many parts of the country that suffer from limited construction and recalcitrant policymakers, and U.S. home prices and rents are still historically high (if not rising). So, while YIMBYs may have won the filtering battle, the national war on housing abundance still has yet to be won.

Chart(s) of the Week

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was pretty good:

Annual federal housing assistance (per household) has doubled since 2005:

The poor gain most from trade:

The Sun Belt took Michigans automotive jobs:

The Links

Two quick blog posts from me on White House economists solid trade econ and on the FTCs pretty good report on the baby formula crisis

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How the washing machine saved the world

Global steel overcapacity persists, despite U.S. tariffs supposedly intended to stop it

Bidens letting unions and Rust Belt senators dictate U.S. trade policy

This Pennsylvania bellwethers not embracing Bidens industrial policy

Housing quality for Americas poorest has improved a lot since the 1980s

Millennial wealth is doing fine

Immigration gives U.S. the edge over Asia (more)

Something good about TikTok: work hacks

Aldis conquering America

The Economist dings Bidens Nippon Steel pandering

Criminal background check laws and labor market inequality

U.S. life expectancy is rising again

Chinas inbound investment slows again (more)

Is Cuba collapsing?

The surprising growth of non-California U.S. wine

Seinfelds a billionaire

Read more at The Dispatch

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A Eurasian eagle-owl named Flaco sits in a tree in New York's Central Park, Feb. 6, 2023. Flaco, New York Citys widely-mourned celebrity owl, was suffering from a severe pigeon-borne illness and high levels of rat poison when he fatally crashed into a building last month, officials at the Bronx Zoo said on Monday, March 25, 2024. | Seth Wenig

Flaco the owl became famous in New Yorks Central Park after escaping from his enclosure in 2023 and surviving on his own. Many experts were surprised at his ability to survive in the urban city after living a life in an enclosure, according to NPR.

But in February, witnesses saw Flaco hit a building, then die from his injuries. But a postmortem report on Flaco revealed he had more serious health issues than anyone realized.

Who was Flaco?

Flaco was a Eurasian eagle-owl that arrived at the Central Park Zoo around 13 years ago as a baby, The Associated Press reports. After living a life in the zoo, in February 2023, someone vandalized Flacos enclosure.

According to NPR, someone trespassed into the Central Park Zoo in the night hours and cut a hole in Flacos steel mesh cage. Flaco escaped and soon became a local icon, hanging out among the citys fire escapes and water towers.

Central Park Zoo attempted to recapture him and bring Flaco back home, per AP, but failed after several attempts. Flaco would avoid police officers and would not return to zoo keepers (who attempted to lure him in with bait and owl calls), per The Washington Post. When zoo officials noticed that Flaco was surviving on his hunting skills, they stopped trying to catch him.

Instead, the Central Park Zoo monitored Flaco from a distance and were ready to bring him back in case he was injured or in distress.

Today, WCSs @centralparkzoo released postmortem testing results for Flaco, the Eurasian eagle owl.



See full report: https://t.co/KMkG5voCNg pic.twitter.com/PZ0NqqM6kv  WCS (@TheWCS) March 25, 2024

How did Flaco die?

Flacos life ended on Feb. 23, according to Central Park Zoo. Zoo officials had received reports from witnesses that Flaco had crashed into a building in the Upper West Side.

Veterinary pathologists studied Flacos body and found that his death was preceded by two illnesses, per Central Park Zoo. The first was pigeon herpesvirus, most likely from the pigeons Flaco would eat, and the second was rat poison. Flaco had four different types of rat poisons in his system, according to the zoo.

The report also shared the deadly side effects from the pigeon herpesvirus. This virus is carried by healthy pigeons but is fatal to birds of prey. In Flaco, the disease had created tissue damage and inflammation in several organs, including his brain.

Before his death, fans of Flaco noticed that he had stopped hooting at night, according to The Washington Post. Rat poison can cause muscle weakness and hemorrhages, which could have played a factor into Flacos crash with the building.

ABC News reports that Flaco was known as the most famous owl in the world and crowds would come watch him. But after his death, many of his fans mourned for him.

According to AP, Flacos fans went to Central Park to create a memorial at Flacos favorite tree. Songs, poems and speeches were some of the tributes left for Flaco.

I stopped by Flacos memorial tree again today to drop off a print of one of my favorite photos of Flaco taken in a branch right above. #RIPFlaco #Flaco #birdcpp pic.twitter.com/99PLjPCpyc  Sheryl Checkman (@DiveArtist) February 26, 2024
YORK COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)  A company out of York County was recently awarded a contract with the U.S. Army that is valued at over $300 million.

BAE Systems, which offers a wide array of the worlds most advanced, technology-led defense, aerospace, and security solutions announced that they were awarded a $318 million contract from the U.S. Army to perform technical and sustainment support services for its fleet of M109A6 and A7 Self-Propelled Howitzers (SPH) and their companion, M992A3 carrier, ammunition, and tracked (CAT) vehicles.

The M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer continues to prove itself as the King of Battle as it provides the firepower and maneuverability to dominate the battlefield, Dan Furber, director of ground vehicle production for BAE Systems Combat Mission Systems business said. Sustainment services for the M109 allow the U.S. Army to maintain a high level of operational readiness to take this powerful capability to the fight.

The company says that during this five-year contract, BAE Systems will be delivering ongoing engineering and logistics services to help provide new capabilities, maintenance and testing on the family of vehicles.

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This new service contract comes after BAE Systems was awarded a contract in November of 2023 for the production of the M109A7, which is the latest howitzer.

BAE Systems says that the services in their newest contract will be provided at military bases in the U.S. and around the world, as well as at BAE System facilities in York, Pa.; Minneapolis, MN; Sterling Heights, MI; Endicott, NY; Elgin, OK; and Aiken, SC.

abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
Ashleigh Loach, who was reunited with the paramedics who treated her initially, was placed in an induced coma twice

A young mother who had a cardiac arrest aged 29 has had an emotional reunion with the crew who saved her life.

Ashleigh Loach's husband initially performed CPR on her when she stopped breathing at her home in Northampton in October 2018.

An ambulance crew took over, stabilised her and took her to hospital, but she was not expected to survive.

Ms Loach, now 34, said she wanted the crew to know how grateful she was and she was "still here".

Ashleigh thought her tiredness, heart palpitations and dizziness were something to do with her Crohn's disease and recent pregnancy.

However after a "rare" night out with her husband Dave, they had just gone to bed when she stopped breathing.

Mr Loach said: "I was on the phone to 999 - the lady was so clear and precise.

"I had to get Ashleigh off the bed and performed CPR for what felt like 20 minutes, but it was actually six."

The paramedics arrived six minutes after the 999 call and used a defibrillator to get Ms Loach's heart back into the right rhythm.

She was taken to Northampton General Hospital and transferred within an hour to Kettering General, but she was not expected to survive.

'Funeral to organise'

Her mother Jackie Hunt was on holiday in the Galapagos Islands in the Pacific when the message came through about the cardiac arrest.

She said: "The people that we'd travelled with got us back within 24 hours because we were told we'd got a funeral to organise."

Ms Loach was put into an induced coma twice and remembers waking up with her mother holding her hand.

Six years on, the family has finally met the ambulance crew.

Ms Hunt said: "Today has been lovely, to be able to put a face to the people who saved our daughter's life."

Ian French, a paramedic based at Daventry, said it was the first time he had attended a reunion with a survivor.

"It's really nice when there is a positive outcome to see the impact it's made long-term - it's really satisfying," he said.

Paramedics Ian French and Matt Flounders and technician Scott Lovett were part of the team that saved Ms Loach

Six years on, Ashleigh Loach is doing well although she can no longer be as independent as she wants to be.

"I just wanted the paramedics to know how grateful I am that they came to me and I'm still here because of them and their work, the call operator who helped Dave and the staff in the two hospitals I was at," she said.

"They were all fantastic.

"I am still here to watch my daughters Pippa and Paisley grow up."

Ashleigh Loach said she wanted to tell the crew how grateful she was that she was "still here"

Follow East of England news on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a story? Email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp 0800 169 1830
Description

Spains national dish, paella, is taking center stage at R.AIRE at The Hampton Maid this month. The restaurant is hosting its second annual Paella Day Party on Wednesday, March 27th to celebrate this Spanish delicacy.

Chef Alex Bujoreanu will preparing three versions for guests: Demarisco (calamari, mussels, shrimp, clams) Duck and artichoke (confit duck, artichokes, chorizo) or Huerta (seasonal vegetables). The full menu also includes appetizers, such as classic Patatas Bravas and Pinchos Duo, an la carte dessert, and wine pairings, For additional Spanish libations, a Make Your Own Sangria bar will be stocked with all the necessary ingredients for guests to make their own refreshing glass or pitcher.

Seatings are available by from 5pm - 9:30pm. Reservations can be made on Resy. The cost of the dinner is $50 per person with wine pairings, or $35 for dinner only. Sangria is $10 by the glass, $40 for the pitcher.

The Hampton Maid is also offering a Stay & Dine option for anyone wishing to make the evening a fun overnight getaway. It includes dinner and continental breakfast, for two. Pricing is $340/night for a Junior suite, and $416/night for a deluxe suite.
It Happened here is a weekly history column by Yakima Herald-Republic reporter Donald W. Meyers. Reach him at dmeyers@yakimaherald.com. Sources for this column include 100 Years 100 Women 1889-1989 Yakima County Washington edited by Theo Mays, findagrave.com, Oregon Historical Society, Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health and Bethenia Owens-Adair: Oregon pioneer, physician, feminist and reformer 1840-1926 by Carol Kirby McFarland.
At a time when dividend stocks in the S&P 500 index yield an average of just 1.3%, it can seem like dividend investors seeking out high yields are looking for a needle in a haystack. Luckily, if you look hard enough, there are still some really attractive high-yield opportunities to be found.

Two that you'll want to look at today are Bank of Nova Scotia (NYSE: BNS) and EPR Properties (NYSE: EPR). Here's a quick primer to get you started.

Scotiabank: Paying dividends since 1833

Bank of Nova Scotia, more commonly known as Scotiabank, is one of the largest banks in Canada. Canada has a highly regulated banking sector, effectively assuring industry giants like Scotiabank have largely entrenched positions. In addition, conservative government regulations have resulted in a cautious ethos at the largest banks. To put it another way, Scotiabank isn't a big risk-taker.

Image source: Getty Images.

That said, it has historically taken a slightly different approach toward growth. Most of its Canadian banking peers have expanded into the United States. Scotiabank focused its growth efforts on South America. Although that region is higher risk, it hasn't upended the company's incredible dividend history. Bank of Nova Scotia has paid uninterrupted dividends since 1833, which is less than a decade away from 200 years. And yet the current 6.2% dividend yield is at the high end of the banking sector. For reference, SPDR S&P Bank ETF (NYSEMKT: KBE) yields just 2.8%. Compared to the average bank, Scotiabank looks like it is trading at a big discount.

Why? Scotiabank has lagged its peers on key metrics like earnings, return on equity, and operating leverage, among others. Investors are clearly concerned with the company's performance. But management has a plan to narrow the gap (including reducing its focus on South America); it will just take some time to mend the issue. The key here is the company is standing behind the dividend, comfortable that it can continue to support the payment while it works to improve performance.

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Given its long history of paying dividends and conservative ethos, yield-seeking investors should probably give this Canadian banking giant the benefit of the doubt. And while you wait for Scotiabank's plans to unfold, you can collect a very generous 6.2% yield.

EPR Properties: The dividend is back and well covered

EPR Properties is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that is focused on owning experiential properties. The list includes things like amusement parks, ski resorts, and movie theaters. During the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, being the landlord of businesses that are specifically designed to bring people together in groups was tough. As a precaution, EPR suspended its dividend.

However, now that the world is getting better at living with COVID-19, EPR's dividend is back, and many of its tenants are in better shape than they were prior to the pandemic. That said, the movie theaters the REIT owns are still struggling because the movie industry itself has been facing long-term headwinds (including, but not limited to, the increase in streaming media at home). To put some numbers on that, movie theaters have rent coverage that is 1.7 times, about where that figure was before the pandemic. But the rest of the portfolio has rent coverage of 2.6 times, up from 2.0 times prior to the public health crisis.

EPR isn't sitting still: It is working with its theater tenants (rent coverage has been improving), selling assets where appropriate, reducing lease rates, and finding new tenants for vacant assets. It will take time for EPR to work through the theater industry headwinds given that theaters make up around 37% of the REIT's rent roll. This is a big part of the reason why the shares yield a hefty 7.9%. The average REIT, using Vanguard Real Estate ETF (NYSEMKT: VNQ) as a proxy, yields just 4% or so.

While more risk-averse investors might want to tread with caution here, there's a silver lining for more aggressive types. The adjusted funds from operations (FFO) payout ratio is around 66%, based on the forward dividend and 2023 adjusted FFO. That's a very solid number and provides more than enough leeway for EPR to continue supporting the high yield while it continues to rework its movie theater portfolio. It's not a bad trade-off if you are willing to take on a little uncertainty.

There are always options

Dividend investors should never give up hope just because Wall Street is on an upward march. If you take your time and do some research, you can find companies that Mr. Market is worried about but that still appear to have solid long-term prospects. Scotiabank and EPR look to be in just such a position. There are definite headwinds at each company, but they seem more than capable of dealing with their issues while still paying you well to stick around.

Should you invest $1,000 in EPR Properties right now?

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Reuben Gregg Brewer has positions in Bank Of Nova Scotia. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Vanguard Specialized Funds-Vanguard Real Estate ETF. The Motley Fool recommends Bank Of Nova Scotia and EPR Properties. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

2 Incredibly Cheap Dividend Stocks to Buy Now was originally published by The Motley Fool
Did WA Legislature drop the ball? Hundreds of Tri-Cities nuclear fuel jobs in the balance
Rescuers watch from the collapsed section of Interstate 5 as hovercraft search for survivors in the Skagit River below. (Dean Rutz / The Seattle Times, 2013)
In this article, we will look into the 20 states that produce the most renewable energy in the US. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to the 5 States that Produce the Most Renewable Energy in the US.

Renewable Energy Market in the US: An Analysis

According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the renewable energy market in the US is expected to reach 434.5 gigawatts (GW) in 2024. The market is projected to grow further at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.01% and reach 700.15 GW by 2029. This growth is driven by a number of factors, including the decline in solar panel costs, the rise in the installation of solar and wind energy, favorable government policies, and additional renewables subsidies.

The recent short-term energy report by the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows a positive outlook for renewable energy in the US. According to the report, the decline in US electricity generation by natural gas and coal will drive growth in the renewable energy market in 2025, registering a drop of 1% and 3%, respectively. An increase in renewable energy generation is expected, primarily driven by solar-powered energy. In 2023, the electric power sector expanded its solar capacity by 19 GW. The country expects to add 36 GW in 2024 and an additional 35 GW in 2025. With this increased solar capacity, solar-powered renewable energy generation will account for 6% of the total electricity generation in the United States. You can also check the biggest solar companies in the world.

Major Players in the Renewable Energy Market

Some of the major companies providing renewable energy services and products in the US market include Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK), Avangrid, Inc. (NYSE:AGR), and Nextracker Inc. (NASDAQ:NXT). Let's discuss these companies in detail below.

Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK) is one of the top renewable energy companies in the USA. On March 22, the company announced that it has appealed for the Public Service Commission of South Carolina's (PSCSC) approval to construct a 76 MW utility-scale solar power facility in Chesterfield and Darlington counties. This proposed plant by Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK) commits to bringing sustainable and affordable clean energy options to South Carolina. If the plant gets approval, its construction will begin in 2026 on the 345-acre site. The plant will deliver fuel-free power to meet the rising energy demand of the Pee Dee region of South Carolina.

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Avangrid, Inc. (NYSE:AGR) is a leading renewable energy company, serving over 7 million people with a developed renewable energy capacity of 8.7 GW. It is also one of the biggest wind energy companies in the world. On February 9, the company, along with the global green energy leader Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, announced that the first five GE Haliade-X turbines for the Vineyard Wind 1 project are now operational. The project will provide clean energy to 30,000 households and businesses in Massachusetts. The large-scale offshore wind 1 project in the US is delivering nearly 68 MW to the New England grid. The steady stream of energy provided by the project will meet the winter energy demand of the region. The project, once fully operational, will be the largest renewable facility in New England, boasting a capacity of 806 MW. This capacity would be sufficient to supply clean energy to 400,000 homes and businesses in the Commonwealth. Governor Maura Healey said that this project by Avangrid, Inc. (NYSE:AGR) is a turning point in the nation's clean energy transition. She further highlighted how clean energy will help the nation achieve its net-zero goal. Healey Said:

Across Massachusetts, in 30,000 homes and businesses, when you turn on the light, you will now be using clean, affordable energy. This will make the air we breathe safer and healthier, save customers money, and bring us one step closer to achieving net-zero emissions.

Nextracker Inc. (NASDAQ:NXT) is a renewable power generation company headquartered in California. It provides solar energy solutions such as utility-scale solar power, solar power plant performance monitoring, and tracking systems. On February 12, the company announced that it has been selected for a repeat order to supply its solar trackers of 1.5 GW and 375 GW by Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Ltd (NSE:SWSOLAR), a leading renewable solutions provider in India. The solar trackers will be utilized for phase two and phase three solar projects at the solar park of NTPC Renewable Energy Limited in Gujarat, India. The tracker selected for the plant is Nextracker Inc.'s (NASDAQ:NXT) NX Horizon smart solar tracker, which is one of the most reliable and widely deployed trackers of the company. It boasts high speed, installation ease, and the ability to provide tracking services for challenging sites. This order marks the completion of over 5 GW of collaborative solar power generation projects by Nextracker Inc. (NASDAQ:NXT) and Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Ltd (NSE:SWSOLAR).

Now that we have discussed the US renewable energy market, let's look at the 20 states that produce the most renewable energy in the US.

20 States That Produce the Most Renewable Energy in the US

A typical home improvement project with workers installing a residential solar energy system.

Methodology

To compile our list of the 20 states that produce the most renewable energy in the US, we consulted the energy generation dataset from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). The database provides net generation data of states by energy sources. We summed the data available for renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydroelectric power, biomass, geothermal, and wood and wood-derived fuels) for each state and ranked them in ascending order of their net renewable energy generation in terawatt hours (TWh), as of 2022.

20 States That Produce the Most Renewable Energy in the US

20. Arizona

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 14.14TWh

Arizona is ranked 20th on our list of the states that produce the most renewable energy in the US. In 2022, the renewable energy generation of the state was 14.14 TWh.

19. Alabama

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 14.27 TWh

Alabama is ranked 19th on our list. In 2022, the state generated 14.27 TWh of renewable energy in the US. Hydroelectric-powered renewable energy had the highest share of the net renewable energy generation of the state.

18. South Dakota

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 14.58 TWh

South Dakota ranks 18th on our list. The major renewable sources of power generation in South Dakota include hydropower, biomass, solar, and wind. It generated 14.85 terawatt hours of renewable energy in 2022.

17. Nevada

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 14.99 TWh

Nevada is one of the top states that produce the most renewable energy in the US. In 2022, the total renewable energy generation of the state was 14.99 TWh. Solar-powered energy had the highest share of the net renewable energy production of the state in 2022.

16. Florida

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 15.58 TWh

Florida produced 15.58 terawatt hours of renewable energy in 2022. It is ranked 16th on our list of the states that produce the most renewable energy in the US.

15. Georgia

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 15.85 TWh

Another state that produces the most renewable energy in the US is Georgia. It produced 15.85 TWh of renewable energy in 2022. Solar energy had the highest share of the total renewable energy production of Georgia in 2022

14. New Mexico

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 16.60 TWh

New Mexico is ranked 14th on our list. The state's renewable energy generation is mainly powered by wind energy. In 2022, it produced 16.6 TWh of renewable energy.

13. North Dakota

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 18.04 TWh

North Dakota is ranked 13th on our list of the states that produce the most renewable energy in the US. In 2022, the state produced 18.04 TWh of renewable energy.

12. North Carolina

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 18.32 TWh

Ranked 12th on our list, North Carolina generated 18.32 terawatt hours of renewable energy in 2022. The major contributor to the net renewable energy generation of the state is solar-powered energy.

11. Minnesota

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 19.13 TWh

Minnesota ranks 11th on our list of the states that produce the most renewable energy in the US. In 2022, the total renewable energy produced by the state was 19.13 terawatt hours.

10. Colorado

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 20.82 TWh

Colorado ranks 10th on our list. Wind energy generation accounted for over 80% of the total renewable energy production in the state in 2022. The total renewable energy generated by the state was 20.82 TWh.

9. Illinois

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 25.44 TWh

Illinois generated 25.44 TWh of renewable energy in 2022. It is one of the top states that produce the most renewable energy in the United States.

8. Kansas

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 29.85 TWh

Kansas is ranked 8th on our list. In 2022, the state produced 29.85 terawatt hours of renewable energy. The major contributor to the renewable energy production of the state is wind energy.

7. New York

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 35.66 TWh

New York is ranked 7th on our list. In 2022, the state generated 35.66 TWh of renewable energy. Hydroelectric power had the highest share of the total renewable energy production of the state in 2022.

6. Oklahoma

Renewable Energy Generation (2022): 39.72 TWh

Oklahoma is ranked 6th on our list of the states that produce the most renewable energy in the US. In 2022, the state produced 39.72 TWh of renewable energy. Wind power had the highest share of the total renewable energy power generation in Oklahoma.

Click to continue reading and see 5 States That Produce the Most Renewable Energy in the US.

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Disclosure: None. 20 States That Produce the Most Renewable Energy in the US is published on Insider Monkey.
By MEGAN HUGHES

[email protected]

IRONWOOD  The Great Michigan Read has begun, and area libraries and educators are gearing up for this years book Firekeepers Daughter, by Angeline Boulley. The Ironwood Carnegie Library, the Wakefield Public Library and the Gogebic Community College are working together to bring activities to both adults and youth alike to celebrate a love of reading.

The first event is set for today at 6 p.m. in Room B-21 at GCC. The event will feature a screening of the documentary Lawyers: Defenders of Sacred Justice. According to a release by Ironwood Carnegie...
In this article, we take a look at the 25 most impoverished countries in Asia. If you would like to skip our detailed analysis of the Asian economy, you can directly go to the 5 Most Impoverished Countries in Asia.

State of Poverty in Asia

The Asian continent has managed to significantly combat poverty over the past few decades. According to a report by UNU Wider, based on the $3.20 poverty line, Asias poverty rate was 73.65% in 1965, from where it dropped to 10% by 2014. Through rapid industrialization, nation-building strategies, and economic growth, Asian countries managed to pull millions out of the shackles of poverty. However, this positive growth was also accompanied by an increase in inequality, as the Gini Coefficient for Asia rose 10% from 1965 to 2006, after which it slowed down due to the 2008 financial crisis. Wealth inequality was most prominent in East Asian countries such as China. According to UNU, 248.4 million more individuals could have made it out of poverty if it had not been for this drastic income inequality.

Before COVID-19, Asia was leading the global pursuit of poverty reduction; however, the pandemic set the region back tenfold. Today, the Asian Development Bank estimates that 155.2 million people in the Asia Pacific region live in a condition of poverty. This value makes up 3.9% of the regions total population. The cost-of-living crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic is massively responsible for this number, which would have been less by 67.8 million without it. Even though Asian economies are projected to continue progressing in the upcoming years, ADB predicts that by 2030, 30.3% of the regions total population will be economically vulnerable. This refers to people who live between $3.65 to $6.85 per day. This is why ADB considers that poverty alleviation continues to be a vital agenda point for Asian states.

Trends in Poverty Reduction

Considering the exemplary work done by Asian states in the domain of poverty reduction, OECD mapped out other trends relevant to poverty reduction from the period of 2000-2019. According to OECD data, the rate of poverty decline was the highest for countries that had robust GDP growth, such as states like Armenia. In the indicated time period, GDP grew by almost 6% in Armenia and poverty decreased by 25%. However, there were also countries which did not perform as expected. Take Lao PDR, for example, where GDP growth was more than 5%, but poverty reduction was less than 10%.

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A correlation was also noted between the percentage of the population living below the poverty line and the number of deaths by communicable diseases and maternal, prenatal, and nutrition conditions. During 2000-2019, India had the highest poverty in the Asia Pacific region (20%), and it also had the highest number of deaths due to communicable diseases, which accounted for 25% of total deaths. On the other hand, countries such as the Maldives and Kazakhstan had some of the lowest poverty rates as well as a low number of deaths due to prenatal conditions or communicable diseases.

The Asian Market

As millions in the general Asian population grapple with extreme poverty, the region is also lined with major industry players boosting its economy. Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd. (KRX:005930) is the worlds second-biggest smartphone manufacturer. According to an analysis by the Korea Times, Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd. (KRX:005930) still makes up for 20% of South Koreas GDP, which is almost one-fifth. Owing to its strong market position in the Asian economy, Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd. (KRX:005930) has also contributed to global goals by partnering with organizations such as UNDP.

In 2019, Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd. (KRX:005930) partnered with UNDP to release the Samsung Global Goals app, through which users can engage with the SDGs in several ways, including sending donations. On December 25, 2022, the company announced it had reached 10 million donations through its Galaxy community and the SGG app. SDG Goal 1: No Poverty is currently the second most-donated cause on the app.

ITC Ltd. (NSE:ITC) is one of Indias top private-sector conglomerates, and it is present in several industries such as consumer goods, hotels, and agriculture technology. ITC Ltd. (NSE:ITC) began as a cigarette manufacturer, but over time, the company has strategically pivoted towards the fast-moving consumer goods industry.

Through its work, ITC Ltd. (NSE:ITC) has contributed to several social development programs that played a direct or indirect role in poverty alleviation. The company regularly enables farmers to increase their income and the productivity of their farms through its agricultural development programs. Results in the villages of Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh increased the crop yield by two times while decreasing the cost by 32%.

Lastly, Alibaba Group Holding Limited (HKG:9988) is one of the biggest retail companies in China. Alibaba Group Holding Limited (HKG:9988) is also one of the most prolific companies that have invested in anti-poverty efforts in the country. In 2021, Alibaba Group Holding Limited (HKG:9988) announced that it would spend $15.5 billion on the various prosperity goals set by President Xi Jinping, which cover areas of job creation and care for vulnerable groups.

25 Most Impoverished Countries in Asia

25 Most Impoverished Countries in Asia

Our Methodology

We began our research by first selecting the 30 poorest Asian countries by GDP per capita. Our next step was to evaluate the absolute situation of poverty and wealth distribution in these states. For this article, we define an impoverished country as one with a high poverty rate, a high poverty gap, and a high level of wealth inequality. Building on these metrics, we looked into the poverty headcount ratio at the national poverty line, the poverty gap at $2.15 a day, and the Gini Index for all 30 countries.

The poverty headcount ratio evaluates the percentage of the population living below the poverty line set by a state. The poverty gap evaluates the average income of an individual living below the international poverty line, which is currently set at $2.15. Lastly, the Gini Index measures the spread of income inequality in a country. An index value of 0 would signify perfect equality, whereas a value of 100 indicates perfect inequality.

We computed an average of the aforementioned four metrics. The result is ordered in descending order of the calculated averages, with the smallest average rank representing the most impoverished country. We have also included the absolute values of all our indicators for each country for more context. Certain values are missing due to inherent gaps in World Bank data owing to the limited availability of data. Tie-breaking, wherever required, was done on the basis of the poverty headcount.

We sourced the GDP per capita, the poverty headcount ratio at the national poverty line, the poverty gap at $2.15 a day, and the Gini Index, from the World Bank, for the latest available year, for all our countries.

Note that some countries on this list may not be considered impoverished in the typical sense, i.e., their economy and business industry may be thriving. However, they will have more than 3.9% of their population living below the poverty line, which grants them a space on this list. Based on this methodology, here are the 25 most impoverished countries in Asia:

25 Most Impoverished Countries in Asia

25. Jordan

GDP per Capita (2022): $4,311

Poverty Headcount (2018): 15.7%

Poverty Gap (2010): 0%

Gini Index Value (2010): 33.7

Average Rank: 19.75

Jordan ranks 25th on our list of the poorest countries in Asia, with 15.7% of its population below the national poverty line. However, according to the UNDP, the country adopted its first Poverty Reduction Strategy in 2002, the social programs in which have been successful in decreasing overall poverty.

24. Vietnam

GDP per Capita (2022): $4,163.5

Poverty Headcount (2020): 4.8%

Poverty Gap (2020): 0.1%

Gini Index Value (2020): 36.8

Average Rank: 19.5

According to UNICEF data, only 58% of Vietnams population has access to safely managed drinking water services, whereas only 49% has access to basic sanitation services. This makes Vietnam one of the poorest countries in Asia.

23. Lebanon

GDP per Capita (2021): $4,136.1

Poverty Headcount (2011): 27.4%

Poverty Gap (2011): 0%

Gini Index Value (2011): 31.8

Average Rank: 18

According to a Human Rights Watch survey from 2022, 56.2% of households said they could not pay for food in the previous year, whereas 55.2% said the same about education. Less than 5% of Lebanese households receive government assistance to deal with the rising living crisis.

22. Georgia

GDP per Capita (2022): $6,675

Poverty Headcount (2022): 15.6%

Poverty Gap (2021): 1.3%

Gini Index Value (2021): 34.2

Average Rank: 17.25

Even though Georgia ranks on our list of Asias most impoverished countries, poverty has been on a decline in recent years, as per a report by the UNDP. Urban poverty has fallen faster, particularly by 5.7%.

21. Mongolia

GDP per Capita (2022): $5,045.5

Poverty Headcount (2020): 27.8%

Poverty Gap (2018): 0.1%

Gini Index Value (2018): 32.7

Average Rank: 17.25

The UNICEF reports that only 39% of Mongolias population has access to safely managed drinking water services, making Mongolia one of Asia's most impoverished countries.

20. Indonesia

GDP per Capita (2022): $4,788

Poverty Headcount (2022): 9.5%

Poverty Gap (2022): 0.3%

Gini Index Value (2022): 37.9

Average Rank: 16.5

While the poverty headcount in Indonesia is only 9.5%, the World Bank reports that one-third of Indonesians are economically insecure, which means any economic or geographical shock can push them into poverty right away.

19. Sri Lanka

GDP per Capita (2022): $3,354.4

Poverty Headcount (2019): 14.3%

Poverty Gap (2019): 0.1%

Gini Index Value (2019): 37.7

Average Rank: 15.5

Even though Sri Lanka has a low poverty headcount as compared to several other Asian states, its high wealth inequality is one of the reasons that make it the 19th country on our list of the most impoverished countries in Asia.

18. West Bank and Gaza (Palestinian Territories)

GDP per Capita (2022): $3,789.3

Poverty Headcount (2016): 29.2%

Poverty Gap (2016): 0.1%

Gini Index Value (2016): 33.7

Average Rank: 15.25

Poverty in the Palestinian territories has remained high for several years, with the situation being worse off in Gaza. The area is also struggling with war currently, which places further pressure on the economic structure of the region.

17. Cambodia

GDP per Capita (2022): $1,759.6

Poverty Headcount (2012): 17.7%

Poverty Gap: N/A

Gini Index Value: N/A

Average Rank: 14

UNICEF reports that Cambodia has an under-five mortality rate of 24 deaths per 1,000 children, whereas only 15% of children aged 36-59 months attend an early childhood education program. Thus, Cambodia is one of the most impoverished countries in Asia.

16. Bangladesh

GDP per Capita (2022): $2,688.3

Poverty Headcount (2022): 18.7%

Poverty Gap (2022): 1.7%

Gini Index Value (2022): 31.8

Average Rank: 14

Bangladesh has a population of 172 million, 18.7% of whom live below the national poverty line, while the average impoverished individual earns 1.7% less than $2.15 per day.

15. Pakistan

GDP per Capita (2022): $1,588.9

Poverty Headcount (2018): 21.9%

Poverty Gap (2018): 0.6%

Gini Index Value (2018): 29.6

Average Rank: 13.5

While 21.9% of Pakistans own population lives below the poverty, Pakistan is also one of the worlds top refugee-hosting countries, according to UNHCR data. The country currently has around 2.1 million refugees, which can further strain an already weakening economy.

14. Kyrgyz Republic

GDP per Capita (2022): $1,655.1

Poverty Headcount (2021): 33.3%

Poverty Gap (2020): 0.2%

Gini Index Value (2020): 29

Average Rank: 13.25

The UNICEF reports that every third child in Kyrgyzstan lives in poverty, which adds up to 750,000 children. The country spends merely 0.5% of its GDP on providing assistance to these poverty-struck children.

13. Myanmar

GDP per Capita (2022): $1,149.2

Poverty Headcount (2017): 24.8%

Poverty Gap (2017): 0.3%

Gini Index Value (2017): 30.7

Average Rank: 12.75

Myanmar has a GDP per capita of $1,149, which is one of the lowest in Asia. This is why its one of the most impoverished Asian countries. The average individual below the poverty line earns 0.3% less than $2.15 daily.

12. Iran

GDP per Capita (2022): $4,669.6

Poverty Headcount: N/A

Poverty Gap (2019): 0.2%

Gini Index Value (2019): 40.9

Average Rank: 12.6

Although the World Bank doesnt list the poverty headcount for Iran, the country itself reported that it had a poverty rate of 30.4% in 2021. With a Gini Index of 40.9, the country also has a high wealth inequality.

11. Philippines

GDP per Capita (2022): $3,498.5

Poverty Headcount (2021) 18.1%

Poverty Gap (2021): 0.5%

Gini Index Value (2021): 40.7

Average Rank: 12.25

According to UNICEF data, the Philippines has an under-five mortality rate of 27.5 deaths per 1,000 births. Furthermore, only 48% of the population can access safely managed drinking water services.

10. Turkmenistan

GDP per Capita (2022): $8,792.5

Poverty Headcount: N/A

Poverty Gap (1998): 14.7%

Gini Index Value (1998): 40.8

Average Rank: 11.3

Official data on poverty measures in Turkmenistan is almost non-existent. The UNICEF estimates that the country has an under-five mortality rate of 40.4 per 1,000 live births.

9. Uzbekistan

GDP per Capita (2022): $2,255.2

Poverty Headcount (2013): 14.1%

Poverty Gap (2003): 37.8%

Gini Index Value (2003): 35.3

Average Rank: 11.25

Uzbekistan has the lowest poverty gap in Asia and the second lowest globally. This means that the average impoverished individual in the country earns less than 37.8% less than $2.15 a day.

8. India

GDP per Capita (2022): $2,410.9

Poverty Headcount (2011): 21.9%

Poverty Gap (2021): 2.2%

Gini Index Value (2021): 34.2

Average Rank: 10.75

Only 52% of Indian individuals have access to safely managed sanitation services, which is a gap faced by several impoverished countries. India ranks 8th on our list of the poorest countries in Asia.

7. Timor-Leste

GDP per Capita (2022): $2,389.3

Poverty Headcount (2014): 41.8%

Poverty Gap (2014): 5.1%

Gini Index Value (2014): 28.7

Average Rank: 10.75

Timor-Leste has a poverty headcount of 41.8%, which is one of the highest in Asia. The average impoverished individual earns 5.1% less than $2.15 a day.

6. Lao PDR

GDP per Capita (2022): $2,054.4

Poverty Headcount (2018): 18.3%

Poverty Gap (2018): 1.2%

Gini Index Value (2018): 38.8

Average Rank: 10.25

Even though Lao PDR continues to be one of the most impoverished countries in Asia, the state has made progress in reducing poverty. The World Bank reported that the country met the MDG target of reducing extreme poverty by half.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Most Impoverished Countries in Asia.

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Suletea leaga victoriile in Liga 4

IN FORMA Vitis Suletea a legat doua victorii la rand! La numai cateva zile dupa ce a invins-o pe CSO Negresti, scor 2-1, trupa pregatita de Gigel Ghenghea a cules trei puncte si din confruntarea cu Flacara Muntenii de Sus, 2-1 (2-0). Dupa patru etape in care au obtinut un singur punct, au venit, iata, [] Articolul Suletea [citeste mai departe]
Many Americans nearing retirement age have nothing set aside to pay for their lives after they stop working. 10'000 Hours/Getty Images

America has a retirement crisis on its hands.

But there are things the US can do to help people better prepare for post-work life, Larry Fink said.

The BlackRock chief outlined three things to help alleviate financial burden on retirees.

America has a real retirement crisis on its hands  and there are three things it can do to help solve it, according to BlackRock chief Larry Fink.

In his annual letter to investors, the CEO of the world's biggest asset manager pointed to an unfolding crisis for current and future retirees. Over half of Americans over the age of 65 are living off less than $30,000 a year, according to 2022 Census data. Meanwhile, 45% of middle-income households risk not keeping up with their pre-retirement living standards once they turn 65, according to data from the Center for Retirement Research.

That's complicated by the fact that Social Security may not be able to provide the same support for younger workers when they reach retirement age, Fink said. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, one fund within the Social Security program, is expected to be depleted within the next 10 years.

"As a society, we focus a tremendous amount of energy on helping people live longer lives. But not even a fraction of that effort is spent helping people afford those years," Fink said. "Today in America, the retirement message that the government and companies tell their workers is effectively: 'You're on your own.'"

That needs to be changed, he said, detailing three ways the US could better prepare people for retirement age.

1. Make investing automatic for workers

Americans have fallen behind on their retirement savings, largely because many can't afford to set aside cash for the future, while a large portion of workers  around 57 million, according to the AARP  don't have access to a retirement plan at work.

46% of Americans aged 55-65 don't have any cash invested in a personal retirement account, according to 2022 Census data.

Story continues

More intuitive investment options, like target date funds and mandates for employers to contribute to a retirement plan for their employees, may be able to help, Fink suggested.

He pointed to the Superannuation Guarantee, an automatic employer contribution program based in Australia. That prevented the nation from heading into a retirement crisis in the 90s, with Australia now home to one of the largest retirement systems in the world.

"As a nation, we should do everything we can to make retirement investment more automatic for workers," he said.

2. Help retirees spend their savings

Most retirees are uncomfortable dipping into their pile of savings. The average retiree still had 80% of their pre-retirement cash even nearly 20 years after exiting the workforce, according to a 2018 BlackRock survey.

That trend has led BlackRock to develop its LifePath Paycheck, a program that will automatically dole out paychecks to retirees from their retirement accounts.

"The retirement paradox has a simple explanation: Even people who know how to save for retirement still don't know how to spend for it," Fink said.

3. Give young people a reason to want to invest

Fear is one of the main obstacles preventing young people from investing in their retirement, Fink said. Just 40% of 12th graders say it's "hard to have hope for the world," according to a University of Michigan public sentiment survey.

That compares to public sentiment in the mid-90s and early 2000s, when 60% of 12th graders said they were optimistic about earning a degree, obtaining a good job, and obtaining more wealth than their parents, a separate analysis found.

"I've been worker in finance for almost 50 years. I've seen a lot of numbers. But no single data point has ever concerned me more than this one," Fink said. "If future generations don't feel hopeful about this country and their future in it, then the US doesn't only lose the force that makes people want to invest. America will lose what makes it America."

Better solutions to prepare young people for retirement is one such way to boost hope, he added.

"Perhaps the best way to start building hope is by telling young people, 'You may not feel very hopeful about your future. But we do. And we're going to help you invest in it,'" Fink said.

Retirement is increasingly seen as a luxury, especially among millennials and Gen Z. 23% of Gen Zers say they don't expect to ever retire, according to a 2022 McKinsey & Company survey, the most pessimistic outlook of any age group.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Peter Magyar has blackmailed and terrorised me, Judit Varga, the former justice minister, said on Facebook, referring to her ex-husband who on Tuesday published a recording of a conversation between them which he made secretly in their family home.

Shocking. Peter Magyar has now done it. He has been blackmailing me with that for a year, Varga said, noting that Magyar had secretly recorded the conversation between them when she was justice minister.



Magyar alleges that the contents of the recording provide evidence of government wrongdoing.



And now he has used it for political purposes, Varga said. A person like that is not worthy of any kind of trust, she added. Varga also said she had given him a number of chances to start over during the terrible years of domestic violence.



Referring to an interview to camera that Magyar gave which was streamed online on Monday, Varga said: I was just watching that cruel face  and I was chilled to the bone; he lies and manipulates, and it brings back everything I had to endure over the past 16 years.



She added that she could recall plenty of examples of verbal and physical violence. Varga recalled one evening when she had gone to bed her husband came home in a drunken state and threw books and clothing at her.



I felt the buckle of his belt hitting my back. I tried to crouch smaller and waited for the next blow; I was afraid that it would hit my spine, but I didnt dare move.



At that time I decided that I would divorce him, she said, adding that when she told him, he begged me and made promises as he had done so many time for 16 years He used all the old tricks and methods through which he had always managed to put me back on the rollercoaster of domestic violence  but this time I was determined to find a way out.



She said Magyar had started threatening her when she insisted on a divorce. This was the context for this footage He was preparing to blackmail me. He was provoking me by reading out gossip from the press.



Since he had been terrorising me for days, I told him what he wanted to hear so that I could get away as soon as possible In a state of intimidation people say things they do not mean, the former minister added.



Varga said she was proud of having been the justice minister of the government led by Viktor Orban and of being a member of the ruling Fidesz party. She said that according to Magyar she was being discredited in the press.



I see it differently. Former colleagues and close friends tell us who he really is. Peter Magyar has caused much pain not only to his own family but also to his friends Now having to watch this vile manipulation causes renewed pain for many, she wrote.



The Central Investigation Prosecutors Office (KNYF) said in the afternoon that Magyar had been heard again as a witness by the Metropolitan Investigation Prosecutors Office in an ongoing criminal case. Prior to the interview, Magyar made public a recording of a private conversation he had with his ex-wife.



The office acknowledged as correct a statement in the recording that Chief Public Prosecutor Peter Polt did not lord over the prosecutors office.



The chief public prosecutor heads and manages Hungarys public prosecutors office where the rule of law is in force, it added.



The prosecutors office will analyse, assess and further verify all statements made in the recording and during the testimony by Magyar, it said in a statement. It must be pointed out again that the disappearance or revision of documents at the prosecutors office is not just legally, but also physically, impossible the statement said.



All data processed at the office is documented from the time of receipt and is not stored in a single location, but appear in the databases of other organisations, including those of investigating judges and authorities involved in covert operations, it added.



The history of all the documents pertaining to the so-called Volner-Schadl case is known and all of the activities revealed from the available data have been or are being investigated, in line with the law, it said.



The authority said it would provide further details at a press conference on March 28.



Gulyas on Magyar: 'The Balloon Has Burst'

Gergely Gulyas, the head of the prime ministers office, responding to allegations made by one-time government insider, Peter Magyar, who has turned against the Fidesz-led administration, dismissed Magyar as the new Marki-Zay, the one-time prime ministerial candidate of the joint opposition.



The only difference is that Peter Marki-Zay did not terrorise his wife, Gulyas said in a Facebook post.



Much ado about nothing, he wrote, adding that the balloon has burst!



A family dispute involving an intimidated wife doesnt have a bearing on public life, he added.



Knyf: No Documents Disappeared in So-Called volner-Schadl Case'



All the documents pertaining to the so-called Volner-Schadl case are available, as well as evidence not included in the indictment, and none have disappeared, the head of the Central Investigation Prosecutors Office (KNYF) said on Thursday.



At a press conference, Pal Furcht rejected accusations against the office that facts had been removed from the indictment.



The indictment contains all data the prosecutors office had deemed provable, the charges against the accused and the evidence supporting the facts, he added.



Proof not supporting the charges had also been filed, all data can be followed up on, he said.



The case concerns an investigation involving Pal Volner, a former state secretary of the justice ministry, and Gyorgy Schadl, the former head of the Hungarian Chamber of Bailiffs.



Prosecutors allege that Schadl had regularly bribed Volner until July 2021 and used his influence to secure the appointment of bailiffs of his choosing in exchange for kickbacks.



Charges of corruption, property crimes and money laundering have been filed against a total of 22 people in the case. According to the indictment, Schadl paid Volner a total of at least 83 million forints (EUR 217,000) in bribes between May 2018 and July 2021, who then exercised his influence as state secretary and deputy minister in Schadls interest.



Furcht said that former Justice Minister Judit Varga was heard as a witness by the Metropolitan Investigation Prosecutors Office on Wednesday, declining to disclose details on an ongoing investigation.



He said that several separate investigations had been launched on connected matters, and were under way at other investigation authorities.



He said he would not comment on the evidence submitted in the ongoing investigation but the authorities would provide information once the investigations are completed.



MTI Photo: Nandor Veres



Related link: telex.hu



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Weekly newspapers were already on the stands when tens of thousands of people attended the 15 March rally where Peter Magyar, the divorced husband of former justice minister Judit Varga announced his plan to set up a new centrist party. This week, most commentators express scepticism about his initiative.

In Demokrata, Gabor Bencsik finds it strange of Hungarys left-liberal intellectuals to expect their Messiah to come from the Right and bring allegedly disillusioned Fidesz supporters with him.



After Momentum founder Andras Fekete-Gyor and former opposition frontrunner Peter Marki-Zay, Peter Magyar is the third consecutive would-be saviour of that ilk, he remarks. Bencsik concludes, however, that it is not sufficient to come from the Right, you also have to be talented to be successful.



In Mandiner, Daniel Kacsoh quotes a recent public opinion poll which suggests that the 16% of respondents who say they would support Magyars new party are overwhelmingly former left-wing party supporters.



Only 2% voted Fidesz in the past. He predicts that the domestic harassment scandal around him will put an early end to Magyars political career. Kacsoh would rejoice if that happened, for the sake of Magyars three children  and the public at large.



In one of three editorials, Magyar Narancs interprets the police report on a conflict between Magyar and his wife more than three years ago as a typical example of the Empire striking back.



Such an attempt at character assassination, the editors write, exemplifies the current state of the country  what happens to you if you manage to gather tens of thousands of people to protest against government policies. The harassment accusation, the editors suggest is a relatively mild symptom of what Hungary has become.



In Heti Vilaggazdasag, Reka Kinga Papp suggests that Peter Magyar has limited charisma and few revolutionary ideas. She attributes the enthusiasm of the opposition-leaning press about him to two parallel mistakes.



The first is the idea that the opposition must target the supporters of the opposing side, although such a policy can only result in emptying their own message.



The second is the mania of waiting for a Messiah, which she believes is a reflection of Prime Minister Orbans uncontested authority in his own camp. Instead, she suggests, the opposition should confront the countrys burning problems.



Magyar Hangs Szabolcs Szereto, on the other hand, hopes that Peter Magyars initiative will not peter out after a few weeks. He finds it mistaken to dismiss his supporters as naive folk waiting for a Messiah.



Instead, he believes there is a huge demand for a new opposition force and Peter Magyar may provide the supply side. From now on, however, he cannot remain a one-man show if he wants to survive. He should find allies to set up a movement behind his future party  and rather sooner than later, Szereto concludes.



Peter Magyar Releases Recordings Alleging Corruption



A pro-government pundit condemns Magyar for secretly recording and now publicly releasing a conversation with his wife, who was at that time (January 2023) Minister of Justice. A left-wing columnist takes the audio as proof that the government is not worthy of public trust.



Peter Magyar, the divorced husband of former Justice Minister Judit Varga, released an audio recording on Tuesday in which Ms Varga says leading government officials asked prosecutors to remove references to them from the files of a corruption scandal in which Ms Vargas former deputy faces up to 8 years in prison.



Mr Magyar then addressed a crowd of several thousand people who demanded the resignation of the Prosecutor General. The prosecutors office assured the public that it is physically impossible to remove documents from its files. Ms Varga called her former husband a narcissistic psychopath who terrorised her while their lived under the same roof.



In Magyar Nemzet, Gergely Huth condemns Peter Magyar for recording and releasing a private conversation with his wife. He adds that the ongoing trial where the former number 2 in the Justice Ministry stands accused of corruption is proof of the independence of Hungarys prosecutors and, by implication, of the rule of law.



Huth finds it telling that Magyar has chosen former Socialist Justice Minister Peter Barandy to accompany him as his lawyer to the prosecutors office where he accused high-ranking government officials, including Cabinet Minister Antal Rogan of corruption.



In Nepszava, Miklos Hargitai writes that accusations of domestic harassment brought against Mr Magyar, whether true or not, do not invalidate his claims of government corruption. He believes that the recording released by Peter Magyar and submitted to the prosecutors office proves the great extent to which prosecutors are influenced by the government.



Most Hungarians already think that the government fails to strictly abide by the law, Hargitai writes, and the audio released by Mr Magyar proves to him that it is no longer worthy of public trust.



MTI Photo: Szilard Koszticsak



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YORK  The York County Attorneys Office has dismissed attempted murder charges against a man accused of threatening his parents in York.

Jonah Jewell is charged in York County possession of a deadly weapon (firearm) during the commission of a felony, a Class II felony, two counts of terroristic threats, a Class IIIA felony and burglary, a Class IIA felony.

Jewell has pleaded not guilty to all charges, according to court records. The defendant waived a preliminary hearing and was arraigned in York County District Court on Monday, according to his attorney, court-appointed York Public Defender David Michel.

Jewell, 22, of Fort Liberty, North Carolina is accused of threatening his parents and trying to break into their York home on Monday, March 4, according to information in an amended charging document filed by the York County Attorneys Office and reporting by the News-Times.

In a March 8 release, the York Police Department said around 7:32 p.m. on March 4 officers were called to a home in the 1300 block of Meadow Lane on the report of a burglary.

Police said there was physical evidence of an attempted break in at the home, and through surveillance footage officers determined Jewell was the suspect. The homeowners were not at the residence at the time. He was arrested by a York County Sheriffs Department deputy a short distance from the home.

Police said Jewell was in possession of loaded gun. The charging document notes Jewell is accused of possessing a Smith and Wesson Model 25 handgun during the commission of a felony.

York police said an investigation determined Jewell had allegedly been sending threatening texts.

Michel said Tuesday the county attorneys office dropped the attempted murder charges, a move he agreed with. He declined to comment further on the case with additional court proceedings on the horizon.

On Wednesday, York County Attorney Gary Olson said the charges were dropped because of "what the evidence indicates now."

Jewell was also issued a citation for speeding on March 1. That document lists a Texas address for the suspect. Fort Liberty is a military installation in North Carolina, formerly known as Fort Bragg.

Jewell remains at the York County Jail, according to jail records. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for 9 a.m. on July 2. A trial is set to begin at 9 a.m. on July 23.

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YORK  The Henderson Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a presentation from OpenSky Policy Institute about the EPIC Option, a proposed tax cut which would eliminate all state income, property, inheritance and corporate taxes.

Tiffany Friesen Milone, deputy director of OpenSky Policy Institute, a Lincoln-based think tank focused on budget and tax policy, shared her organizations findings and answered questions about EPIC on Monday at Sparrows Branch restaurant in Henderson.

EPIC has been proposed via two different means: LB 79, a piece of legislation which was heard in the last legislative session and ballot initiatives, which would change the state constitution. Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard is leading the legislation effort.

Before the two ballot initiatives could be on the ballot in November, they would need to receive about 122,600 signatures from registered voters, Milone said, including 5% of registered voters in 38 of 93 counties by July 2024.

The two ballot initiatives are closely related. One ballot initiative says Nebraska cannot impose any taxes other than retail consumption taxes or excise taxes, while the other initiative specifies the only possible exemption: grocery items purchased for off-premises consumption.

Proponents of the EPIC option say the elimination of income, property, inheritance and corporate taxes would drive growth and attract new people to move to the state.

A study from the Beacon Hill Institute for Public Policy Research, which Milone said was commissioned by proponents of EPIC, estimated the consumption tax would have to be at about 7.5% to make up for the less in revenue from other taxes.

But Milone said on Monday there are reasons to call the Beacon Hill study into question. The study assumed generous growth due to the elimination of these other taxes, Milone said, and counted on 44,000 people moving to Nebraska by 2030 because of the tax cuts.

The Beacon Hill study also included items that cannot legally or feasibly be taxed in its estimated revenue, including state and government spending and business inputs, Milone said.

Milone said two think tanks  the right-leaning Tax Foundation and the left-leaning ITEP  estimate the consumption tax would in fact have to be set at greater than 21% to avoid billions of dollars of deficit.

Milone also noted it would be a regressive tax, meaning poor Nebraskans would pay a larger share of their income on taxes than richer Nebraskans. Out-of-state property owners could also benefit from not having to pay taxes without contributing to the local economy, Milone noted.

A number of organizations and chambers of commerce in the state  including the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Grand Islands chamber  have come out against the tax.

The York Chamber of Commerce does not have an official position on the tax.

Residents on Monday asked a variety of questions, including about the logistics of how such a policy would be carried out.

A major concern about the ballot initiatives, Milone said, was how to interpret the ballot initiatives. If adopted, Milone said, it would be up to the legislature to implement them, giving the legislature broad power.

The legislature would approve local government and school budgets, Milone said. Heartland Public Schools Superintendent Jeremy Klein worried that if school budgets are determined by the state and not local government, schools might start to be run like the state prison system or the department of Health and Human Services.

Another attendee wondered how the state legislature would have time to consider local budgets when it has trouble finding time to pass legislation now.
New Delhi: Gear up for the release date of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar! Releasing only on Netflix!

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar is indeed the biggest show out of India. While the first look that was revealed, left the nation astounded with the grandness, the filmmaker is about to bring to the OTT arena, the first song 'Sakal Ban' further gave a more comprehensive glimpse of the world of Heeramandi. Immensely enriched with beautiful aesthetics, a celebrated star cast, and a classical symphony, the director is all set to treat the audience with a show for the first time from India on the global level. Amid the rising fervor, the makers are all set to make a grand announcement of its release date.

One of the lead actresses of SLB's Heeramandi, Sonakshi Sinha raises the excitement for the unveiling of the release date. Taking to her social media, the actress shared a pre-release poster of Heeramandi.

It has indeed piqued the excitement for the unveiling of Heeramandi's release date.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar also features Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, and Sanjeeda Sheikh. The show is all set to release this year on Netflix worldwide.
On Wednesday, Thailand's parliament decisively passed a bill on marriage equality, marking a significant milestone that brings one of Asia's most progressive nations closer to becoming the third territory in the region to legalize same-sex marriages.

Thailand has reached a significant milestone towards achieving marriage equality as the lower house has approved a bill granting legal recognition to same-sex marriages.

The bill received backing from all of Thailand's major political parties and has been in the works for over ten years. However, it still needs to pass through the Senate and receive the king's endorsement to become law, after which it would take effect 120 days later.

According to reports, the recently passed law, supported by 400 out of 415 lawmakers in attendance, will define marriage as a union between two individuals rather than solely between a man and a woman. It will grant LGBTQ+ couples equal entitlements to marital tax benefits, property inheritance, and the ability to provide medical consent for incapacitated partners.

As per the legislation, married couples of the same sex are permitted to adopt children. Nonetheless, the lower house declined to adopt the committee's proposal to replace the terms "fathers and mothers" with "parents".

Thailand currently has laws prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation, establishing its reputation as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Asia.
NEW DELHI: Delhi, the national capital, experienced a grim day on Monday, with six separate murder cases reported within 24 hours, coinciding with the festive occasion of Holi. The motives behind these crimes varied, ranging from personal disputes to dowry harassment. However, in most of these cases, suspects were arrested by the police.

Alipur

The first incident occurred in Alipur, where a 27-year-old woman lost her life after her throat was slit, allegedly by her husband and in-laws. The suspects, including the husband Manjeet and his family members, were promptly apprehended. Initial investigations point towards dowry harassment as a possible cause.

Mongolpuri

In another tragic event in Outer Delhi's Mongolpuri, a woman was fatally shot, while her children sustained injuries. The prime suspect, Vivek, was arrested along with an accomplice, with the motive believed to be linked to a property dispute.

Raj Park

A woman's body was discovered near the Mongolpuri railway tracks in Raj Park, adding to the day's toll. The victim's identity was established, although the circumstances surrounding her death remain under investigation.

Other Incidents Across Delhi

The wave of violence extended to various other parts of the city, including Northeast Delhi's Shastri Park, Shahdaras Seemapuri, and North Delhis Gulabi Bagh, where incidents of murder unfolded.

Shahdara

In Shahdara, a man lost his life during a robbery attempt, underscoring the dangers of street crime in the city. The perpetrators have been apprehended, shedding light on the tragic consequences of such acts.

Shastri Park

A personal quarrel turned deadly in Shastri Park, claiming the life of a young salesman, highlighting the lethal outcomes of interpersonal conflicts.

Gulabi Bagh

An altercation in Gulabi Bagh escalated, resulting in one fatality and several injuries. The incident, reportedly sparked by a drug purchase, underscores the need for effective measures to curb substance-related violence.

The Delhi Police swiftly responded to the series of murders, apprehending suspects and launching thorough investigations into each case. Despite the festive atmosphere of Holi, law enforcement remained vigilant in maintaining public safety amidst the surge in violent incidents.
Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel has raised questions on the future planning of the Election Commission. Baghel has revealed a formula for voting using ballot papers that may seem impractical at first glance but is technically feasible. The Election Commission is concerned that if what Bhupesh Baghel has said is adopted by political parties and individuals, it could undermine the capabilities of EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines).

In today's DNA, Sourabh Raaj Jain analysed the claims made by former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel. The Congress leader claimed that if more than 375 candidates stand for election from a particular constituency, the Election Commission will be compelled to conduct the elections using ballot papers. According to him, EVMs are not capable of handling voting for such a large number of candidates. This is a significant question that has been raised, something the Election Commission has never considered before.

Watch Full DNA Episode Here

Bhupesh Baghel's question is quite interesting. Undoubtedly, the general public may not have much information about this. Baghel's grand electoral plan is that if more than 375 candidates contest on the 543 Lok Sabha seats, the elections will have to be conducted using ballot papers. He believes that this approach will increase Congress's chances of winning.

Opposition to EVMs has been seen in all types of elections, whether they are for state assemblies or for the Lok Sabha. However, this opposition has not been observed at the time of victory; it has always been seen after defeat. Just a few days ago, during his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Mumbai, Rahul Gandhi targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over EVMs. He claimed that the BJP is winning solely because of EVMs.
Amidst the controversy surrounding the Enforcement Directorate's actions against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, reports suggest that the central agency has begun investigating questionable financial dealings involving a contentious mining company and the IT firm of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter Veena.

As per reports, the agency has filed a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and is anticipated to issue summons to the individuals implicated in the matter. The Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), operating under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, is already investigating transactions suspected to involve illegal gratuities. These transactions are believed to have been provided in exchange for favours granted to the mining company by the Kerala government, particularly concerning mineral sand mining activities along the coastal regions of Alappuzha and Kollam.

The case originates from an investigation conducted by the Income Tax Department, which claimed that the private company named Cochin Minerals And Rutile Ltd (CMRL) illicitly transferred Rs 1.72 crore to Veena's company, Exalogic Solutions, between 2018 and 2019, despite the IT firm not rendering any services to CMRL.

Last month, the Karnataka High Court rejected a petition filed by Exalogic Solutions challenging the investigation launched by the SFIO.
Jammu and Kashmir political parties have welcomed Home Minister Amit Shah's discussion on removing AFSPA but raised concerns over the delay in state assembly elections. National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah criticized the BJP's delay, calling it an election ploy rather than genuine progress. He emphasized the need for action rather than mere promises, citing previous instances of unfulfilled commitments.

"I have been waiting for this day since 2011. But let me tell you the way they (BJP) have misled the people of Ladakh over the issue of the sixth schedule, in the same manner, the BJP is making false promises related to the removal of AFSPA before the elections in Jammu and Kashmir," said Abdullah.

Similarly, reacting the Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement that the centre is mulling removing AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir, People's Democratic Party Chief Mehbooba Mufti expressed hope for real change while cautioning against empty assurances, highlighting the importance of tangible actions such as the release of detainees and journalists.

"PDP has consistently demanded the revocation of draconian AFSPA along with a gradual removal of troops. It also formulated an important part of our Agenda of Alliance wholeheartedly agreed upon by BJP. Der aayee durust aaye. Better late than never but only if it isnt jumlebaazi like generating two crore jobs every year or empty promises of depositing 15 lacs into bank accounts. One can only hope that they fulfil their commitment at least in this case since it would bring a huge relief to the people of J&K. To walk the talk perhaps MHA can start by releasing journalists & thousands of young Kashmiri boys currently languishing in jails without any charges or prosecution," said Mufti.

What Is AFSPA?

The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) grants extensive authority to the armed forces and Central armed police forces stationed in "disturbed areas," allowing them to neutralize individuals violating the law, conduct warrantless arrests and searches, and enjoy immunity from legal repercussions. Initially enacted in 1958 to address the Naga insurgency, the legislation underwent amendments in 1972, empowering both the Central government and states to designate an area as "disturbed."
MANCHESTER, England, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ACE Money Transfer, a leading remittance provider headquartered in Manchester, UK, and Bank AL Habib, one of Pakistan's premier commercial banks, have joined forces once again to incentivize overseas Pakistanis to send money home through legal channels while offering them the chance to win substantial rewards. 25 Umrah packages are being offered, allowing winners to undertake the sacred pilgrimage during the holy month. The grand prize - Two lucky winners will each receive a rupees 1 crore cash prize.

ACE_Money_Transfer_Logo

The Importance of Legal Remittances

Legal remittances contribute significantly to Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves, aiding in economic growth and stability. Conversely, informal channels for sending money can be unreliable and pose security risks. Remittances are a vital lifeline for Pakistan's economy, and by incentivizing legal transfers through such rewards during Ramadan, ACE Money Transfer and Bank AL Habib play a key role in supporting national development and ensuring the well-being of many families.

How to Participate?

The process is simple. The remitter is required to send money to Pakistan via ACE Money Transfer's app or website from the UK, Europe, Canada, or Australia to any Bank AL Habib account or choose cash pickup from one of Bank AL Habib's 1100+ branches in Pakistan and use the promo code "UMRAH" when creating the transaction. The offer is valid during the month of Ramadan, 2024.

Mr. Rashid Ashraf, CEO of ACE Money Transfer, stated, "This collaborative effort transcends mere transactions. It acknowledges the profound significance of Ramadan, a time for spiritual reflection, generosity, and strengthening family bonds. We at ACE Money Transfer are proud to revitalize our longstanding partnership with Bank AL Habib and offer such incredible opportunities to overseas Pakistanis while contributing to Pakistan's economic well-being."

Story continues

Mr. Aun Ali, Group Head  Business of Bank AL Habib, said, we are excited to announce the launch of the media campaign in collaboration with ACE Money transfer during the holy month of Ramadan. The campaign shows our commitment to building a meaningful relationship with our customers and encouraging them to use legal channels to send money to Pakistan .

Ali Zafar, the campaign ambassador, shared his thoughts: "I am honored to be associated with this initiative. During Ramadan, the spirit of giving is at its peak, and these contributions must reach their intended recipients safely and securely. By using legal channels like ACE Money Transfer and Bank AL Habib, overseas Pakistanis can ensure their hard-earned money makes a real difference back home while strengthening Pakistan's economy."

Website: http://www.acemoneytransfer.com/

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1807198/ACE_Money_Transfer_Logo.jpg

Cision

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ace-money-transfer-and-bank-al-habib-partner-again-to-empower-overseas-pakistanis-and-strengthen-pakistans-economy-this-ramadan-302101218.html

SOURCE Ace Money Transfer
NEW DELHI: In a notable move marking a significant shift in policy, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has decided to delist 18 centrally protected monuments from its registry, citing their diminished national significance. This decision stems from a compilation of 24 untraceable monuments identified by the Union Ministry of Culture, which was presented to a parliamentary committee in the preceding year.

Monuments To be Delisted By The ASI

Among the monuments set for delisting are prominent sites like Kos Minar No.13 in Haryana, Gunner Burkills Tomb in Jhansi, Barakhamba Cemetery in Delhi, Cemetery at Gaughat in Lucknow, and Telia Nala Buddhist ruins in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The removal of these monuments from the list effectively absolves the ASI from the responsibility of their protection, opening up avenues for regular construction and urban development activities nearby.

Reduction In ASI's Monument Count

With the ongoing delisting process, the ASI foresees a reduction in its oversight from 3,693 to 3,675 monuments in the coming weeks. A recent official notification dated March 8 invokes Section 35 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 (AMASR Act) to initiate the delisting procedure, asserting that these monuments have ceased to be of national importance.

Call for Public Feedback

The notification mandates a two-month period for public feedback or recommendations, as stipulated in the AMASR Act. Monuments deemed nationally significant by the act are earmarked for preservation and management by the ASI as pivotal historical and cultural landmarks, with construction activities prohibited in their vicinity.

'Untraceable' Monuments

In the past year, the Ministry of Culture informed Parliament that 50 out of India's 3,693 centrally protected monuments were unaccounted for. This revelation was part of a report presented to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture, addressing 'Issues relating to Untraceable Monuments and Protection of Monuments in India.'

Reasons Behind Missing Monuments

Of the missing monuments, 14 were 'lost' due to rapid urbanization, 12 submerged due to reservoirs or dams, while 24 remain 'untraceable'. The 18 monuments designated for delisting fall under this latter category of 'untraceable' monuments. This move follows a recommendation from the parliamentary panel to organize and classify ASI-protected sites based on their national importance, unique architectural significance, and heritage content. It underscores ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of managing and safeguarding India's rich cultural heritage.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has dropped incumbent MP Varun Gandhi from the Pilibhit seat in Uttar Pradesh. The party, however, fielded his mother and senior leader Maneka Gandhi from the Sultanpur seat. Since today is the last day of nomination from Varun Gandhi's turf Pilibhit, people were speculating that he may contest the polls independently. Even, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury invited him to join Congress. Chowdhury said that Varun Gandhi has a clean image and he should contest the polls on a Congress ticket.

Varun Gandhi To Contest 2024 Polls?

Varun Gandhi is well aware of the political developments and has decided to not contest the polls this time. He said that he would not contest Lok Sabha polls from the Pilibhit seat and instead would campaign for his mother Maneka Gandhi from the Sultanpur seat. In 2014, Maneka Gandhi won the seat while Varun bagged the Sultanpur seat. In 2019, the BJP swapped the seat between the two and Varun Gandhi bagged the Pilibhit seat and Maneka Sultanpur seat. This time, the BJP has fielded Jitin Prasada from the Pilibhit seat. Former Congress leader Prasada joined the BJP in 2021.

Why BJP Replaced Varun Gandhi

Varun Gandhi has been a high-profile BJP leader but lately, he disagreed with some of the party policies and even publicly expressed his opposition to the same. The issues included the farmers' protest and the Lakhimpur Kheri incident in which four farmers lost their lives. While Varun rose in the BJP under Rajnath Singh, he is now finding himself sidelined. However, his decision to not contest the polls and rather campaign for his mother will send out a signal that he is not opposed to the party but some of the policies. Thus, there may be another opportunity waiting for him in the future.
New Delhi: Actress Kangana Ranaut has been nominated to contest from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The BJP's decision has fumed many and has stirred up discussion in the political arena. After a markworthy career in Bollywood, the actress is all set for her political debut.

Kangana's Political Background

It's interesting that Kangana Ranaut also comes from a political background, as her great grandfather, the late Sarju Singh, was an MLA from the Trifalghat assembly constituency. This sustantiates that she is not an outsider to politics but rather hails from a family that has actively participated in the democratic process of the country.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has referred to Kangana Ranaut as the "daughter of Himachal." The actress has her deep roots emebedded in the state. CM Sukhu also mentioned that Ranaut's father held the position of General Secretary of Congress in Mandi, and her parents continue to reside in the state."She (Kangana Ranaut) is the daughter of Himachal. Her parents live here. Her father was made the General Secretary of Congress in Mandi," CM Sukhu stated while addressing reporters in Shimla.

Kangana Ranaut- Supriya Shrinate Controversy

The nomination of the Bollywood actress has sparked controversy, especially after the deleted social media post by Congress leader Supriya Shrinate. The purported post from Congress' social media chairperson Supriya Shrinate on Monday, which featured a picture of Ranaut with an objectionable caption, has since been deleted. Although, Shrinate has now-deleted that social media post.

Kangana Ranaut's Political Debut

As Kangana Ranaut gears up for her political debut, the actress met the BJP chief, Kangana Ranaut said in a post on X that she will do her best towards the progress of the Mandi constituency.

"Today I met with the National President, Honorable Jagat Prakash Nadda ji. I will always be grateful for his guidance and support, and I will give my best for the progress and prosperity of my area, Mandi. Jai Hind," Kangana Ranaut posted on X. She is expected to return on March 28 to commence her campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
NEW DELHI: Indulging in risky stunts for social media attention can lead to severe consequences, as highlighted by recent events. Law enforcement agencies are vigilant in promoting road safety, especially in the face of viral videos showcasing dangerous behaviours.

Case In Point: Viral Video Sparks Outrage

A video circulating on social media depicted a man recklessly riding a two-wheeler with two female passengers on board, engaging in inappropriate activities while on the move during Holi celebrations in Noida. The incident, which occurred in Sector 78 under the jurisdiction of the Sector 113 Police Station, prompted swift action from authorities. Noida Police disclosed that the individuals involved faced a substantial fine amounting to Rs 33,000 for their actions captured in the viral footage. The video captured the trio riding without helmets, indulging in activities that compromised road safety, and violating traffic regulations.

Traffic Violations And Punishable Offences

Law enforcement agencies are witnessing an alarming trend of motorists prioritizing social media recognition over adhering to traffic rules. Instances of filming short videos while performing stunts on city roads are frequently reported, leading to increased scrutiny from authorities.

Surge In Cases Of Triple Riding

Traffic police data revealed a significant surge in violations related to triple riding on motorcycles, with over 8,000 challans issued in the capital city. Najafgarh and Bhajanpura emerged as the top two areas with the highest number of triple-riding incidents.

Stringent Penalties For Offenders

In an effort to curb such reckless behaviour, traffic police have intensified surveillance measures across the city. Offenders are subject to fines ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 30,000 for various traffic violations, including driving without helmets, rash driving, incorrect number plates, and unauthorized parking.

Strict Enforcement Of Motor Vehicles Act

Stringent provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, are enforced to deter repeat offences. Recent amendments to the act have led to increased fines for traffic violations, with penalties reaching up to Rs 25,000 for minors found driving vehicles.

Hefty Fines For Multiple Offences

Offenders face steep fines for multiple violations, with penalties escalating based on the severity of the offence. Notably, fines for driving under the influence of alcohol, failing to yield to emergency vehicles, lacking pollution certificates, or driving with expired registration certificates can amount to significant financial penalties and even imprisonment.

Upholding Road Safety

As authorities continue to crack down on reckless behaviour on roads, individuals are urged to prioritize road safety over social media recognition. Strict enforcement of traffic regulations and hefty fines serve as deterrents against endangering lives through irresponsible actions behind the wheel.
MUMBAI: In a recent ruling, the Bombay High Court upheld a trial court's decision, ordering a man who derogatorily referred to his wife as 'second-hand' to pay a hefty compensation of Rs 3 crore along with monthly maintenance of Rs 1.5 lakh under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.

Background Of The Case

The case, heard by Justice Sharmila Deshmukh on a revision application filed by the husband, stemmed from a tumultuous marriage that began in January 1994 in Mumbai and later included a ceremonial marriage in the USA. Despite owning a shared residence in Matunga upon their return to Mumbai in 2005, marital discord led to the wife relocating to her mother's residence in 2008, while the husband moved to the USA in 2014.

Legal Proceedings

Legal proceedings unfolded in both the USA and Mumbai, with the husband filing for divorce in 2017, which was granted in 2018. Simultaneously, the wife lodged a complaint under the Domestic Violence Act in Mumbai.

Testimony And Allegations

The wife recounted a series of distressing incidents, including verbal and physical abuse, particularly highlighting a demeaning instance during their honeymoon in Nepal where the husband labelled her 'second-hand' due to a previous broken engagement. She further revealed instances of verbal degradation, physical violence, and baseless accusations of infidelity, even citing a 1999 incident in Texas where the husband was arrested for assaulting her.

Court's Observations

The court, acknowledging the gravity of domestic violence, emphasized its detrimental impact on the victim's self-worth, irrespective of their social status or education level. It noted that in this case, where both parties were well-educated and held high social standing, the effects of domestic violence would be keenly felt by the wife, affecting her self-worth significantly.

Despite the husband's claims that the domestic violence proceedings were retaliatory to the divorce proceedings initiated by him, the court upheld the trial court's ruling, underscoring the importance of addressing domestic violence comprehensively and providing redressal to victims.
New Delhi: Satyam Surana, an Indian student at the London School of Economics (LSE), has alleged that he was the target of a hate campaign during the recent student union elections at the university, news agency ANI reported. Surana, who gained recognition for his act of defiance during an attack on the Indian High Commission in the UK last year, is now in the spotlight for a different reason.

Speaking to ANI, Surana told that he had filed his nomination for the post of general secretary when the LSE elections were announced in February and early March. However, he noticed that his campaign posters were being torn down and defaced from March 14-15. Despite lodging complaints with the authorities and replacing the damaged posters, the harassment continued.

#WATCH | An Indian Student at the London School of Economics, Satyam Surana who came to the limelight when he picked up the tricolour from the road, defying the attack at the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom by extremist elements last year, now alleges hate campaigns pic.twitter.com/aXsVC2PIWD  ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

On March 16, Surana discovered that some of his posters had been defaced with crosses over his face and the phrase anyone but Satyam. He felt singled out and targeted. The situation escalated on the afternoon of March 17 when messages began circulating in various LSE groups, including Indian groups and law school groups.

The messages labeled Surana as a supporter of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), branding him as a fascist, Islamophobe, and transphobe. The messages also contained seditious and contentious remarks about the Indian government and the current establishment.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Surana on Tuesday said, "People are now Anti-India because they are Anti-Modi [] They attempted to harass me. I was cancelled, I was slurred. Why? - Because I supported PM Modi. - Because I supported BJP. - Because I spoke up for the truth when the Ram Mandir was built. - Because I supported the progress Bharat is making under the leadership of PM Modi. - Because I spoke against terrorism. - Because I spoke in favour of Bharat."
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his joy over the global recognition of Garba, a traditional dance form from India. The PM added that Garba found a place on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. I am glad that the Certificate of Inscription was presented a few days ago in Paris.

"Garba is a celebration of life, culture and devotion. It also brings people together. It is gladdening to note that Garba's global popularity on the rise! Sometime ago, Garba found a place in the @UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. I am glad that the Certificate of Inscription was presented a few days back in Paris. At the same time, a memorable Garba Night was also held in Paris, which was attended the Indian community in large numbers," he said in a tweet on X.

Garba is a celebration of life, culture and devotion. It also brings people together. It is gladdening to note that Garbas global popularity on the rise!



Sometime ago, Garba found a place in the @UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. I am glad that the Certificate of pic.twitter.com/h5gmEFZsWn  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 27, 2024

PM Modi also shared some photographs of people enjoying the Garba dance and a copy of the UNESCO certificate. "Garba of Gujarat was inscribed in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity by UNESCO, under the provisions of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage during the 18th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage from December 5-9, 2023, in Kasane, Botswana," as per the Ministry of Culture.

As per the Ministry of Culture, Garba of Gujarat is the 15th ICH element from India to join this list. Garba is a ritualistic and devotional dance that is performed on the occasion of the of Navaratri festival. The dance takes place around a perforated earthenware pot lit with an oil lamp, or an image of the mother goddess Amba.

Participating dancers move around the centre in a counter-clockwise circle, using simple movements while singing and clapping their hands in unison.

The Gujarati dance starts with slow circular movements and the tempo slowly builds up to a frenzied whirling.
NEW DELHI: Satyam Surana, a student leader from Pune, has found himself embroiled in controversy amid student elections at the prestigious London School of Economics (LSE) in the United Kingdom. In what he describes as a ''carefully orchestrated effort'', Surana claims to have been unfairly targeted with a hate campaign just 12 hours before the elections at the LSE. False accusations linking him to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and labelling him a 'fascist' circulated, aiming to undermine his campaign and reputation. Speaking to news agency ANI, Satyam disclosed that his posters were being ripped off and torn, prompting him to lodge complaints with the authorities. Upon replacing these posters, he found that some had been defaced, with crosses marked on his face and phrases like anyone but Satyam". I was cancelled out," he said.

#WATCH | An Indian Student at the London School of Economics, Satyam Surana who came to the limelight when he picked up the tricolour from the road, defying the attack at the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom by extremist elements last year, now alleges hate campaigns pic.twitter.com/aXsVC2PIWD  ANI (@ANI) March 27, 2024

Anti-Indian Campaign In UK

Surana alleges that the campaign against him is part of a larger agenda by individuals politically opposed to the current Indian government. He asserts that the campaign involves spreading misinformation and disinformation to discredit him and his affiliations. The campaign against Surana included defacing his campaign posters and circulating messages across various student groups, accusing him of supporting the BJP and labelling him as intolerant towards certain communities.

People are now Anti-India because they are Anti-Modi



They attempted to harass me. I was cancelled, I was slurred.



Why?

- Because I supported PM Modi.

- Because I supported BJP.

- Because I spoke up for the truth when the Ram Mandir was built.

- Because I supported the pic.twitter.com/OArzoof3aN  Satyam Surana (@SatyamSurana) March 25, 2024

Response To Accusations

Surana defends himself, stating that his political views and associations are his personal opinions and should not affect his candidacy in a student election. He highlights the misrepresentation of his connections, such as a photograph with Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, to falsely link him to the BJP.

Indians Behind The Hate Campaign

Surana has expressed disappointment that a majority of those involved in the hate campaign against him are fellow Indians, further emphasizing the need for fair and unbiased discourse within communities.

Who Is Satyam Surana?

Originally from Pune, Surana has also practiced law at the Bombay High Court and is currently pursuing an LLM at LSE, with his course set to conclude later this year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today continued his intereaction with the BJP candidates in the run up to the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. While PM Modi spoke to two BJP candidates - one each from Bengal and Kerala yesterday, he today spoke to BJP's Krishnanagar nominee Rajmata Amrita Roy who is contesting the polls against TMC's Mahua Moitra.

Expressing his efforts to ensure that the funds seized by the ED in West Bengal are returned to the impoverished individuals who were victims of fraud, PM Modi told Roy that the government is looking into the legalities for this. In their conversation with 'Rajmata' of Krishnanagar, PM Modi said that he wants to ensure that funds looted from the poor finds its way back to poor, utilising cash and assets seized by the Directorate of Enforcement from individuals involved in corruption.

Taking aim at the opposition coalition INDIA bloc, PM Modi asserted that while the BJP remains dedicated to eradicating corruption nationwide, opposing factions formed alliances to save one another.

Amrita Roy is fielded against TMC candidate former MP Mahua Moitra in Krishnanagar. Moitra was recently removed from the Lok Sabha due to findings from an Ethics Committee inquiry into accusations of involvement in a 'cash-for-query' scandal.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Modi reached out via phone to Rekha Patra, a key figure in the Sandeshkhali movement. During their conversation, Modi called Patra 'Shakti Swaroopa' and inquired about her campaign arrangements and noted the increasing backing for the BJP in the region.

PM Modi also talked to BJP's Kerala candidate Prof T N Sarasu who is contesting the polls from the Alathur Lok Sabha constituency. PM Modi assured her of strict actions against the alleged cooperative bank frauds taking place in the state.

The Lok Sabha elections for 42 Parliamentary Constituencies in West Bengal are set to take place in seven phases, commencing on April 19. Vote counting is scheduled for June 4.
New Delhi: Banita Sandhu, known for her stellar performances in films like "October," "Sardar Udham," and " Adithya Varma," is gearing up for an exhilarating new adventure as she begins shooting for "G2" in Bhuj, Gujarat. The eagerly anticipated sequel to the 2018 hit "Goodachari" promises to be an electrifying cinematic experience, and Banita Sandhu is thrilled to be a part of it. "G2" marks Banita's first pan-India project, set to be released in multiple languages, showcasing her versatility to audiences nationwide.

Expressing her excitement about the project, Banita has earlier stated, "This is my first Pan-India film and Im so excited to collaborate with such an incredible, visionary team. It is a role unlike anything Ive ever done before, and I cant wait for audiences to see me in a completely fresh avatar. Working on this movie will be a creative delight for me."Banita Sandhu's foray into the international arena has been met with resounding acclaim, setting her apart as a talent to watch on the global stage

Joining Banita in this exciting endeavor is her co-star Adivi Sesh, who warmly welcomed her to the "G2" world, expressing anticipation for an amazing collaboration. The camaraderie between the two actors promises to bring an extra dimension to the sequel, enhancing the overall viewing experience for the audience.

As shooting commences in Bhuj, Gujarat, anticipation for "G2" continues to soar, with fans eagerly awaiting updates and glimpses from behind the scenes. With Banita Sandhu on board, the sequel promises to push boundaries and deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
By Max A. Cherney

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Artificial intelligence benchmarking group MLCommons on Wednesday released a fresh set of tests and results that rate the speed at which top-of-the-line hardware can run AI applications and respond to users.

The two new benchmarks added by MLCommons measure the speed at which the AI chips and systems can generate responses from the powerful AI models packed with data. The results roughly demonstrate to how quickly an AI application such as ChatGPT can deliver a response to a user query.

One of the new benchmarks added the capability to measure the speediness of a question-and-answer scenario for large language models. Called Llama 2, it includes 70 billion parameters and was developed by Meta Platforms.

MLCommons officials also added a second text-to-image generator to the suite of benchmarking tools, called MLPerf, based on Stability AI's Stable Diffusion XL model.

Servers powered by Nvidia's H100 chips built by the likes of Alphabet's Google, Supermicro and Nvidia itself handily won both new benchmarks on raw performance. Several server builders submitted designs based on the company's less powerful L40S chip.

Server builder Krai submitted a design for the image generation benchmark with a Qualcomm AI chip that draws significant less power than Nvidia's cutting edge processors.

Intel also submitted a design based on its Gaudi2 accelerator chips. The company described the results as "solid."

Raw performance is not the only measure that is critical when deploying AI applications. Advanced AI chips suck up enormous amounts of energy and one of the most significant challenges for AI companies is deploying chip that deliver an optimal amount of performance for a minimal amount of energy.

MLCommons has a separate benchmark category for measuring power consumption.

(Reporting by Max A. Cherney in San Francisco; Editing by Jamie Freed)
New Delhi: Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh's performance on the screen speaks volumes of her versatility. Fatima Sana Shaikh is an actress who has been proving her acting prowess since her childhood. With her exceptional performances, which are way different from her previous ones, she has always made sure to deliver a performance that proves she is a prolific performer. However, it is indeed depressing to see that she is not getting worth recognition that she deserves. The industry is not ready for a talent like Fatima.

Every time her performance goes unnoticed and that's really a big question of the industry's potential to recognize good performers. She is not in the race of nepo kids but worth to say, way ahead then them in terms of performance. But, she has not even received any awards as well. Nothing to doubt, she is a deserving candidate awards.

Well, even though the industry is not recognizing Fatima's talent but this didn't go unnoticed by the netizens. A storm has begun over the social media in support of Fatima where the chatter about Fatima not getting her due as a prolific performer, is taking rounds. Here's how netizens are reacting:

On the work front, Fatima will be next in Anurag Basu's directorial 'Metro In Dino'. Moreover, she is also shooting in Punjab for her upcoming 'Ul Jalool Ishq' with Vijay Varma.
New Delhi: The current financial is coming to an end on March 31, 2024. The new FY will kick in on April 1, 2024. As the ongoing financial year is approaching, Flipkart is hosting the Month End Mobile Fest sale in India. The sale offers massive discounts on various mobile phones, particularly Apple iPhones.

The sale includes discounts on popular models like the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and even the recently launched iPhone 15. Continue reading to find out the details of the sale and how the deal works. (Also Read: Delhi Man's Rs 340 Cab Booking Turns Into Rs 648 Nightmare: Here's What Happened NEXT)

Flipkart Month-End Mobile Fest Sale: Discounts On iPhone Models

Originally launched at a starting price of Rs 79,990, all three iPhone models are now available at significantly reduced prices on Flipkart. (Also Read: Man Tweets By Just Thinking, Elon Musk Shares His Post; Details Here)

Apple iPhone 13, iPhone 14, And iPhone 15: Price

The iPhone 13 is listed at Rs 52,999, the iPhone 14 at Rs 56,999, and the iPhone 15 at Rs 66,999.

Flipkart Month-End Mobile Fest Sale: Additional Bank Discounts

In addition to the discounted prices, buyers can also avail themselves of bank discounts on their purchases. For example, customers using Citi Bank credit cards can enjoy a Rs 2,000 instant discount on the iPhone 15, bringing its effective price down to Rs 64,999.

Flipkart Month-End Mobile Fest Sale: Colour Options

The iPhone 15 is available in Pink, Black, Blue, Green, and Yellow color options, while the iPhone 14 comes in Blue, Midnight, Starlight, Purple, Yellow, and Product (Red) variants. The iPhone 13 offers color choices such as Blue, Green, Starlight, Midnight, and Pink.

Flipkart Month-End Mobile Fest Sale: Other Deals

Apart from Apple iPhones, Flipkart's sale also features discounts on other smartphone brands. For instance, the Xiaomi 14, originally priced at Rs 59,999, now comes with an instant bank discount of Rs 5,000.

Realme 12 5G is available with a Rs 1,000 bank discount, while the Oppo F25 is selling at a starting price of Rs 23,999 with a Rs 2,000 instant discount.
NEW DELHI: In a shocking development, a 36-year-old Nepali woman, Aarti, who happens to be the daughter of Gopal Hamal, the mayor of Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city in Nepal, went missing in Goa two days back. A follower of Osho meditation, Aarti had been residing in Goa for several months before her sudden disappearance.

Here are the top developments in Aarti Hamal's sudden disappearance case:-

1. Nepalese Mayor's Daughter Goes Missing: Aarti, the daughter of Gopal Hamal, mayor of Dhangadhi sub-metropolitan city in Nepal, went missing in Goa, sparking concerns among her family and community.

2. Last Known Whereabouts: She was last seen on Monday night near the Ashvem Bridge in Goa around 9:30 pm, as reported by her family members.

3. Plea for Assistance: Gopal Hamal made a heartfelt plea on social media, urging residents of Goa to assist in locating his missing daughter and providing contact details for any information.

4. Family's Efforts: Aarti's younger sister, Arzoo Hamal, and her son-in-law immediately flew to Goa to aid in the search efforts, mobilizing resources and seeking help from the public.

5. Search Efforts Intensify: Arzoo Hamal revealed that numerous calls poured in from concerned individuals, suggesting possible sightings of Aarti near the Siolim bridge and speculating about her condition and whereabouts.

6. Speculations and Investigations: Speculations arose regarding Aarti's condition, with some callers claiming she was found unconscious near the Siolim bridge and taken to a hospital, while others suggested she was taken to a police station.

7. FIR Filed: Goa Police took action by filing a First Information Report (FIR) in connection with Aarti's disappearance, initiating official investigations into the matter.

8. Relief Amidst Uncertainty: Amidst the distress, a glimmer of relief surfaced as Gopal Hamal announced on Wednesday that Aarti had been found safe in Goa after two days of uncertainty.

9. Mayor Expresses Gratitude To Well-Wishers: Expressing profound gratitude, Gopal Hamal thanked all individuals who contributed to the search efforts, including the supportive Nepali community residing in Goa.

10. Reunited with Family: Aarti's safe return brought immense relief to her family, as Gopal Hamal confirmed that she was reunited with her younger sister, Arju, and son-in-law, marking an end to the ordeal.
New Delhi: In the early hours of Tuesday, a catastrophic event unfolded in Baltimore Harbor when a large cargo ship, disabled by a power outage, collided with a bridge. This led to the bridges collapse and the subsequent closure of one of the busiest ports on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard. Six workers are feared dead in the incident. The hazardous conditions in the debris-filled waters forced the suspension of active search-and-rescue operations about 18 hours post-accident, as announced by U.S. Coast Guard and Maryland State Police officials.

Given the icy water temperatures and the time that had passed since the accident, Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath expressed no hope of finding the missing workers alive. State Police Colonel Roland Butler shared plans to resume the recovery mission for the workers remains after sunrise on Wednesday. The workers, along with two survivors who were rescued, were part of a crew repairing potholes on the bridge.

The Singapore-flagged container ship Dali, en route from Baltimore Harbor to Sri Lanka, struck a support pylon of the Francis Scott Key Bridge over the Patapsco River around 1:30 a.m. (0530 GMT). A section of the 1.6-mile (2.57 km) bridge quickly fell into the icy river, taking vehicles and people with it.

A greater disaster was averted when the ships power failure was reported before the collision, allowing officials to halt traffic on the bridge. These people are heroes. They saved lives last night, said Maryland Governor Wes Moore during a midday news briefing. He confirmed that the bridge was up to code with no known structural issues.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott likened the scene of twisted metal erupting into the sky to an action movie. Social media footage captured the vessels impact with the bridge in the dark, the headlights of vehicles on the span visible as it plunged into the water and the ship ignited.
SINGAPORE, March 27, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "a-" (Excellent) of PVI Insurance Corporation (PVI Insurance) (Vietnam). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. Additionally, AM Best has assigned the Vietnam National Scale Rating (NSR) of aaa.VN (Exceptional) to PVI Insurance with a stable outlook.

The ratings reflect PVI Insurances balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM). The ratings factor in rating enhancement from PVI Insurances ultimate parent, HDI Haftpflichtverband der Deutschen Industrie V.a.G. (HDI V.a.G.).

PVI Insurances balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Bests Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), which is expected to remain at the strongest level over the medium term. PVI Insurance benefits from good financial flexibility, given its majority ownership by HDI V.a.G. AM Best views the companys investment portfolio to be of moderate risk, with the majority of investments allocated toward cash and term deposits and the remainder held in non-rated corporate bonds, affiliated private equity investments and real estate. Offsetting factors include the companys high dividend payout ratio and high reinsurance dependence to support the underwriting of large commercial property, engineering and energy risks.

AM Best assesses PVI Insurances operating performance as strong, supported by its five-year average return-on-equity ratio of 17.9% (2019-2023). PVI Insurance continued to deliver robust underwriting profits in 2023 and achieved a combined ratio of 92.7%. Underwriting performance is expected to remain robust over the medium term supported by profitable results in commercial and industrial lines of business. Investment returns, consisting mainly of interest and dividend income, is expected to remain as a key contributor to the companys overall earnings.

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AM Best assesses PVI Insurances business profile as neutral. The company became the largest non-life insurer in Vietnam based on 2022 direct premiums and it continues to grow its market share. The company has a strong market position in commercial and industrial lines of business, including energy, property, engineering, aviation and marine insurance, as supported by its affiliation with the PetroVietnam group, one of the largest state-owned oil and gas corporations in Vietnam. Support from HDI V.a.G. has enhanced PVI Insurance's technical expertise and service offerings, strengthening its position in the regional industrial risks insurance segment.

AM Best assesses PVI Insurances ERM approach as appropriate given the size and complexity of its current operations. PVI Insurance benefits from risk management and governance support from HDI V.a.G.

Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Bests website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Bests Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Bests Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Bests Credit Ratings, Bests Performance Assessments, Bests Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Bests Ratings & Assessments.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright  2024 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327081587/en/

Contacts

Ong Xin Ya

Associate Financial Analyst

+65 6303 5024

xinya.ong@ambest.com



Chris Lim, FCII, CFA

Associate Director, Analytics

+65 6303 5018

chris.lim@ambest.com



Christopher Sharkey

Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

christopher.sharkey@ambest.com



Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

al.slavin@ambest.com
(Bloomberg) -- Amazon.com Inc. says its investing an additional $2.75 billion in Anthropic, completing a deal it made last year to back the artificial intelligence startup and expand a partnership between the companies.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The infusion brings Amazons total investment in Anthropic, a well-regarded builder of AI tools able to generate text and analysis, to $4 billion, following an earlier investment announced in September. As part of that deal, Amazon had the right to contribute the additional funds in the form of a convertible note, provided it did so before the end of March.

As part of the tie-up, Anthropic has also agreed to use Amazon Web Services data centers to power some of its operations, and to use Amazons custom-built computer chips. Anthropic, based in San Francisco, has also committed to using chips from Alphabet Inc.s Google, another close partner.

Anthropic is tied up with multiple big tech companies, including Google, which joined a $450 million round of financing last May led by Spark Capital. Google and Amazon Web Services are both Anthropics cloud computing partners.

Anthropic was formed in 2021 by former employees of OpenAI, including Daniela Amodei and her brother Dario, who serves as its chief executive officer. The company has since become one of OpenAIs most formidable competitors, raising billions in funding. Most of its customers are businesses, ranging from search engine DuckDuckGo to travel guide publisher Lonely Planet.

The company, which offers a chatbot named Claude, has emphasized developing AI safely and responsibly. In early March, it introduced new software for the chatbot that it said will be better at carrying out complicated instructions and less prone to making things up.

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Chatbots capable of mimicking human conversation have become an increasing focus of Silicon Valley companies  with fast tech advances fueling an investing frenzy. Chatbots themselves are by no means new. But the technology powering Claude and competitors bots is a more powerful tool known as a large language model, which is trained on massive swaths of the internet in order to generate text, such as an answer to a question or a poem. Such tools are an application of generative AI, systems that consider input such as a text prompt and use it to output new content.

(Updates with context starting in the first paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
QCI

SAN DIEGO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The 2024 Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention in Anaheim, California, is set to host a pivotal session on the pressing issue of cyber security within tribal casinos. Scheduled for 9am on Tuesday, April 9th, this session will delve deep into the intricacies of two recent high-profile cyber attacks targeting prominent casinos  Caesars and MGM Resorts. Both attacks were executed by the same notorious ransomware gang, making it an urgent concern for the gaming industry.



Victor Rocha, Chairman of the Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention, expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, "The cyber attacks on Caesars and MGM Resorts serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of tribal casinos to malicious cyber threats. It is imperative for the industry to come together, understand the nature of these attacks, and fortify our defenses to safeguard the integrity of our operations and protect our patrons."

During the session, Andrew Cardno, Chief Technology Officer of Quick Custom Intelligence, will provide a detailed comparative analysis of these attacks. This analysis will shed light on various aspects, including the tactics employed by the cybercriminals, the impact on the operations of the affected casinos, the differing responses by the two companies, and the significance of these incidents for the Indian Country.

"As we witness an alarming increase in cyber attacks targeting the gaming industry, it is paramount for tribal casinos to adopt robust cyber security measures," emphasized Andrew Cardno. "By understanding the modus operandi of cybercriminals and learning from the experiences of Caesars and MGM Resorts, tribal casinos can proactively enhance their cyber defenses and mitigate the risks posed by such threats."

The session promises to be an invaluable opportunity for tribal casino operators, IT professionals, and industry stakeholders to gain insights, share best practices, and collectively strengthen the cyber resilience of tribal gaming enterprises.

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ABOUT The 2024 Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention

As the premier events for the tribal gaming community, the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention and Mid-Year Conference & Expo deliver the insight and strategies you need to rise to the top of the competitive gaming industry landscape. Theres no better opportunity to meet industry leaders, access cutting-edge trends and celebrate a proud tradition of success. For more information visit: www.indiangamingtradeshow.com.

ABOUT QCI

Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary QCI AGI Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 160 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and The Bahamas. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $24 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI's data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI was co-founded by Dr. Ralph Thomas and Mr. Andrew Cardno and is based in San Diego, with additional offices in Las Vegas, St. Louis, Dallas, and Tulsa. Main phone number: (858) 299.5715. Visit us at www.quickcustomintelligence.com.

ABOUT Andrew Cardno

Andrew Cardno is a distinguished figure in the realm of artificial intelligence and data plumbing. With over two decades spearheading private Ph.D. and master's level research teams, his expertise has made significant waves in data tooling. Andrew's innate ability to innovate has led him to devise numerous pioneering visualization methods. Of these, the most notable is the deep zoom image format, a groundbreaking innovation that has since become a cornerstone in the majority of today's mapping tools. His leadership acumen has earned him two coveted Smithsonian Laureates, and teams under his mentorship have clinched 40 industry awards, including three pivotal gaming industry transformation awards. Together with Dr. Ralph Thomas, the duo co-founded Quick Custom Intelligence, amplifying their collaborative innovative capacities. A testament to his inventive prowess, Andrew boasts over 150 patent applications. Across various industriesbe it telecommunications with Telstra Australia, retail with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, or the medical sector with esteemed institutions like City Of Hope and UCSDAndrew's impact is deeply felt. He has enriched the literature with insights, co-authoring eight influential books with Dr. Thomas and contributing to over 100 industry publications. An advocate for community and diversity, Andrew's work has touched over 100 Native American Tribal Resorts, underscoring his expansive and inclusive professional endeavors.

Contact:

Laurel Kay, Quick Custom Intelligence

Phone: 858-349-8354








Apple (AAPL) is in the midst of what you could generously call a difficult period. The company is contending with a high-profile antitrust battle with the Department of Justice, falling iPhone sales in China, and a regulatory investigation in the European Union. And those are just the headlines from the past week.

The company is also still facing a shortfall when it comes to generative AI capabilities. And while its widely expected to debut some kind of generative AI offering during its WWDC developer event on June 10, itll need to have quite an impressive showing if its going to catch up to its Big Tech rivals including Microsoft (MSFT) and Google (GOOG, GOOGL).

All of that is hurting Apples stock price. Shares of the iPhone maker have fallen more than 7% since the start of the year and are up just 6.25% over the last 12 months. Shares of Microsoft, meanwhile, are up 14% year to date and 49% over the last 12 months. Google? Shares of the search giant are up 9% year to date and 43% in the last 12 months.

Suffice it to say, Apples 2024 is not going well.

Apples China problem

Apples latest headache came Tuesday, when Bloomberg, citing Chinese government data, reported that iPhone shipments fell 33% year over year in the country in February.

China is Apples third-largest market behind North America and Europe. In 2023, the region accounted for $72.6 billion of Apples $383.3 billion in total revenue. Thats roughly 19% of the companys sales.

And this isnt exactly out of the blue. Earlier this month, Counterpoint Research reported that iPhone sales fell 24% year over year through the first six weeks of 2024 in the country. Overall smartphone unit sales in China declined 7% during the same period.

Apple CEO Tim Cook speaks during a parallel session the China Development Forum at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, China, on Sunday, March 24, 2024. (Tatan Syuflana/AP Photo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Apple has been aggressively expanding in China for years, but a resurgent Huawei and difficult economic conditions in the country are squeezing device sales. The company isnt just sitting idly by, though. Last week, CEO Tim Cook flew to China for the opening of the companys latest flagship store in Shanghai. He also attended the China Development Forum in Beijing and was expected to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

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According to the South China Morning Post, Apple-authorized retailers are also trying to goose sales, cutting the price of the companys latest iPhones in the hopes that it will get consumers to start buying again. However, it might take more than lower prices to make that happen.

A battle with the DOJ

Outside of Apples China sales drama, the company is also facing its long-anticipated antitrust fight with the Department of Justice. The lawsuit, which the DOJ filed last Thursday, accuses Apple of illegally maintaining dominance over the premium smartphone market by pushing aside competing apps and devices.

The Justice Department claims that Apple imposes restrictions on app developers, makes it difficult for users to switch to competing platforms, and hinders cloud gaming and so-called super apps that allow users to access multiple smaller apps from one larger platform.

Attorney General Merrick Garland speaks during a news conference at Department of Justice headquarters in Washington, Thursday, March 21, 2024. (Jose Luis Magana/AP Photo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Apple, however, is fighting back, saying in a statement that the suit "threatens who we are and the principles that set Apple products apart in fiercely competitive markets. If successful, it would hinder our ability to create the kind of technology people expect from Apple."

The DOJ is seeking to force Apple to change its business practices, which could mean giving third-party apps greater access to the companys platforms and requiring Apple to expand compatibility with third-party device makers.

The lawsuit could also prove to be a dangerous distraction for Apple similar to how Microsofts antitrust battle in the 90s stole executives attention away from emerging technologies like smartphones. If Microsoft hadnt been so invested in its antitrust fight at the time, theres a good chance it would have seen the smartphone age coming as did Apple and Google, and launched its own line of handsets.

European Commission calling

In addition to slowing iPhone sales in China and the DOJs antitrust suit, the European Unions competition watchdog, the European Commission on Monday, announced that it is looking into whether Apple is in compliance with the blocs Digital Markets Act.

European Commissioner for Europe fit for the Digital Age, Margrethe Vestager speaks during a media conference regarding the Digital Markets Act at EU headquarters in Brussels, Monday, March 25, 2024. (Virginia Mayo/AP Photo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

In a statement released Monday, the Commission said it is investigating Apples new app fee structure in the EU as well as whether it meets user choice obligations related to default apps and the ability to delete preinstalled apps.

The Digital Markets Act requires Apple to open up the iPhone to third-party app stores, enabling developers to get around the 30% and 15% fees the company charges for sales through its own App Store. While Apple said it will allow those third-party stores, the company said it will also charge developers a 50 euro cent Core Technology Fee per install per year on apps that have been installed more than 1 million times in the last 12 months.

In a statement, the EC said it is looking into whether Apples new fees defeat the purpose of the obligations of the Digital Markets Act.

While Apple is certainly facing a slew of challenges, its far from down and out. Its still the second-richest company in the world by market capitalization  behind Microsoft  and its sure to continue to sell millions of devices and services subscriptions throughout the year ahead.

Still, for the foreseeable future, Apple could be in for a bumpy ride.

Subscribe to the Yahoo Finance Tech newsletter. (Yahoo Finance)

Email Daniel Howley at dhowley@yahoofinance.com. Follow him on Twitter at @DanielHowley.

Click here for the latest technology business news, reviews, and useful articles on tech and gadgets

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance.
Vancouver, Canada --News Direct-- Avrupa Minerals Ltd

Avrupa Minerals CEO Paul Kuhn joined Steve Darling from Proactive to provide an overview of the company's ambitious plans for 2024, highlighting significant progress made in deposit definition work at the Sesmarias copper-zinc-lead Project in Portugal during 2023.

Avrupa Minerals is now gearing up for an aggressive drilling program in the SES Central Zone, which is set to commence soon. The success of this drilling phase will play a crucial role in determining the company's path towards applying for a mining license, which is anticipated to occur in the first half of 2025.

Additionally, Kuhn discussed the company's project in Kosovo. The project is located in the Vihanti-Pyhasalmi VMS District in Central Finland and comprises two exploration permits covering known massive sulfide deposits (Kangasjarvi and Hallapera), an application over a massive sulfide deposit (Rauhala), and an exploration permit covering a massive sulfide target (Kolima).

While awaiting the issuance of the Kolima permit, the joint venture is conducting basic exploration work, reviewing historic core and geophysical data, and modeling SkyTEM data from the Kangasjarvi license. These efforts have identified an outstanding un-drilled target near the old Kangasjarvi Mine, and plans are in place for drilling at this target in 2024. Additionally, there are other SkyTEM anomalies that may warrant drilling following planned exploration activities during the upcoming field season.

Overall, Avrupa Minerals is focused on advancing its projects in Portugal and Kosovo through aggressive exploration and drilling programs, with the aim of delineating significant mineral resources and ultimately advancing towards mining license applications.

Contact Details

Proactive North America

Proactive North America

+1 604-688-8158

NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/avrupa-minerals-planning-aggressive-drill-program-at-sesmarias-copper-zinc-lead-project-in-portugal-728197058
(Photo: FreightWaves)

Freight movements between the U.S. and Mexico continue to grow, and ongoing nearshoring efforts show no signs of slowing. As more goods move across the border, conversations between carriers and insurance providers regarding B-1 truck drivers from Mexico are happening more frequently.

While B-1 truck drivers from Mexico are able to enter the U.S. to complete deliveries, cabotage laws greatly restrict their movements and activities within the country.

When moving freight between Mexico and the U.S., these drivers are permitted to pick up a load in Mexico and drop it off in the U.S. They are then allowed to pick up another load in the U.S., but that shipment must be dropped off back in Mexico. All movements must be part of an international stream of commerce.

There are only a handful of providers that will offer auto liability and other lines of coverage to fleets with B-1 drivers for a variety of factors stemming from the difference in Mexican versus American standards  paramount of which include cabotage law, cargo insurance standards, differences in federal driver performance tracking, licensing and language proficiency, said Mark Vickers, executive vice president and head of international logistics at Reliance Partners. However, we have many of our standard insurance providers, insurtechs and captives starting to play ball with us for the first time, and this timing is perfect.

Insurance companies also shy away from B-1 drivers because of the differences in driver performance tracking between the U.S. and Mexico.

All U.S. drivers have motor vehicle records (MVRs) managed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. These files play a large role in assessing driver safety and determining carrier insurability. Mexican drivers do not have MVRs. Instead, they have PSP files. While these documents do provide some insight into a drivers track record, they are not as detailed or complete as MVRs, creating hesitancy among insurance markets.

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Historically, U.S. markets have stayed away from B-1 drivers, as driving performance is one of the main rating factors when quoting for most companies, according to Reliance Partners Account Executive Stephanie Alegria. Unfortunately, with these license types, there are no driving/violation records that can be used to help determine the quality of the driver pool.

Despite this relative lack of performance documentation, B-1 drivers bring a unique value proposition to the table, including lower hiring costs and an eagerness to find  and retain  driving jobs.

Vickers noted that truck driving is a highly desirable job in Mexico because it tends to pay significantly more than any comparable positions within the country. This creates a high level of competitiveness and excellence in the Mexican driver pool.

While it is difficult for B-1 drivers to provide evidence of their previous driving behaviors via government documentation, Alegria noted that most of these drivers have proved even safer than their U.S. counterparts in practice. This is likely because the process of becoming a truck driver is much more stringent in Mexico.

The extensive process to become a B-1 driver creates drivers that tend to be more cautious and more involved in operations, leading to fewer accidents and violations. In turn, this creates a safety culture that most markets really appreciate and reward in the form of more favorable premiums, Alegria said.

The performance-based hesitancy surrounding B-1 drivers is starting to ease up. Alegria attributes this shift to the increase of technology-driven carriers, as companies are now able to monitor driver performance through ELD data sharing on almost a real-time basis.

This ability to monitor drivers as they go, combined with how well the cross-border market carriers have performed from a loss ratio perspective, has prompted more insurance providers to begin accepting carriers with a portion of B-1 drivers.

Reliance Partners sees embracing B-1 drivers as a positive step toward a safer and more efficient transportation industry, and the company has committed to helping its peers in the insurance space better understand the value these drivers bring to the table.

As Reliance, we have made an effort to put a spotlight on these types of drivers and the risks associated with them, Alegria said. We have made a significant move to get markets in conversations about these drivers, in the hopes of creating more options for these types of operations.

Industrywide change takes time, but Alegria and Vickers agree that opportunities for B-1 drivers will likely expand significantly as both the transportation and insurance industries continue to become more globally focused and technologically advanced.

Click here to learn more about Reliance Partners.

Reliance Partners 7th Annual Modernization of Cross-Border Trade Event will be held in Laredo, Texas, on Aug. 6. For more information on the event and where to sign up, visit here.

The post B-1 drivers offer unique value proposition for cross-border carriers appeared first on FreightWaves.
Paige and George Nester of Creek House Honey Farm won the Small Business Person(s) of the Year for the West Texas region from the Small Business Administration.

A Canyon apiary, an Odessa flight school, an Abilene insurance company and a Lubbock soda shop are among several businesses that have been recently honored by the Small Business Administration's West Texas 2024 awards.

On Tuesday, March 26, the SBA West Texas District Office announced the National Small Business Week (NSBW) 2024 Award Winners. The awards covered a swath of the 71-county region, including Abilene, Amarillo, Canyon, Lubbock and Odessa.

"We are especially proud of all of our winning West Texas small business enterprises who clearly represent the very best of West Texas," said Calvin Davis, West Texas District Office Director. "SBA sees your hard work and determination, as well as your grit and innovation which has greatly contributed to keeping our West Texas economy strong and vibrant."

Award winners will be honored during four separate events, all of which will be held during National Small Business Week between April 28 and May 4. For more information about National Small Business Week, people can visit sba.gov/NSBW.

Here's a look at who won what, and what those businesses do.

Overall Small Business Administration for West Texas awards

Small Business Person(s) of the Year - Creek House Honey Farm

George and Paige Nester of Creek House Honey Farm, 5005 4th Ave., in Canyon earned the overall West Texas award. The bee apiary sells all-natural products using local honey. Besides products, the farm has a restaurant, works as a venue and hosts classes and tours. People can learn more about the business at creekhousehoneyfarm.com.

More: Taste of success sweet for Creek House Honey Farm, with CEDC donating $100K

Region VI Excellence and Innovation Award - University of Texas Permian Basin SBDC

The University of Texas Permian Basin's Small Business Development Center offers resources and assistance to surrounding small businesses. People can learn more about this organization at utpb.edu/directory/office/sbdc.

West Texas regional Small Business Administration Awards 2024

Veteran Small Business of the Year Abilene - 4Sight Environmental, Inc.

Scott Chapel of 4Sight Environmental, Inc., 13498 County Road 232 in Abilene, won the region's veteran award. This company provides "source testing services primarily to the natural gas industry. Using state-of-the-art equipment, in modular, automated, remotely accessible systems, 4Sight can quickly respond and support clients changing requirements," according to the company's site. People can learn more about it at stacktesting.us.

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Minority Small Business of the Year Abilene - RGF Insurance

Ricardo Gutierrez of RGF Insurance earned the minority award for the Abilene area. RGF Insurance, 2102 Ambler Ave. in Abilene, offers vehicle, life, home and health insurance services. People can learn more about the business at rgfinsurance.com.

Community Champions of the Year Amarillo - Square Mile Community Development

Braden Clark and Donna Dorman Madison of Square Mile Community Development earned the Amarillo region's community award. Square Mile brings businesses, nonprofits and community members together to revitalize under-resourced areas. People can learn more at square-mile.org.

Small Business Persons of the Year Lubbock - The Soda Shack

Marilee and Vaughn Bray of The Soda Shack earned the Lubbock award. The Soda Shack, with locations at 5903 82nd St. and 13404 Indiana Ave. #300, has been in the community since 2018. It serves various flavored sodas, Italian Cream sodas and snacks. People can follow the business on Facebook.

More: Here's a look at Lubbock's 111 businesses that opened in 2023

Minority Small Business of the Year Odessa - Doctor Frio A/C and Heating, LLC.

Fredy Alejandro Riano of Doctor Frio A/C and Heating, LLC., 3981 W. Arcadia St. in Odessa, earned the Odessa region's minority award. The company serves residential and commercial properties. A website was not available, but people can contact the business at 432-614-7593.

Veteran Small Business of the Year Odessa - Scout Aviation

Samuel Medina of Scout Aviation, at Odessa-Schlemeyer Field Airport, 7000 Andrews Highway in Odessa, earned the region's veteran award. The company is a helicopter flight school. People can learn more about the business at scoutaviationllc.com.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Abilene, Amarillo, Lubbock businesses win SBA West Texas 2024 awards
(Bloomberg) -- The Biden administration is finalizing requirements meant to stem methane emissions from oil and natural gas wells on public land nearly a decade after the federal government first moved to crack down on the greenhouse gas releases.

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The final rule imposed by the Interior Departments Bureau of Land Management requires operators of oil and gas projects on federal land to do more to find and arrest methane leaks. It also sets limits on how much natural gas can be flared  or burned off  before companies are charged royalties on the waste.

The measure, a key piece of President Joe Bidens climate agenda, builds on a suite of other regulations meant to discourage emissions of methane, a particularly potent greenhouse gas. Methane, the main component of natural gas, is estimated to be 84 times more powerful than carbon dioxide at warming the atmosphere during the first two decades after it is released. Limiting methane releases is seen as critical to constraining global warming and keeping temperature rise below 1.5C, a tipping point for avoiding the most catastrophic consequences of climate change.

Biden administration officials cast the regulation as a fiscally and environmentally sound policy, since the gas extracted from federal land is owned by US taxpayers. The rule aims to stop both accidental and intentional releases of that fuel  including leaks from pipelines and other infrastructure as well as purposeful discharges from oil wells. Oil companies often turn to that practice, known as venting, when they dont have sufficient pipeline capacity to ship gas to markets.

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The measure helps prevent waste, protect our environment and ensure a fair return to American taxpayers, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said in a news release. By leveraging modern technology and best practices to reduce natural gas waste, we are taking long-overdue steps that will increase accountability for oil and gas operators.

Oil and gas companies who have battled the requirements warned they will hike costs and further discourage development on federal land.

Overlapping regulations and lack of coordination between policymakers could hinder progress, create unnecessary barriers to development on federal lands and result in regulatory incoherence, said Holly Hopkins, upstream policy vice president at the American Petroleum Institute.

The measure comes on top of separate Environmental Protection Agency requirements for stifling methane leaks that largely target oil infrastructure on private land. The EPA is also moving to impose a congressionally mandated fee on methane releases.

The new Interior Department rule is narrower, in that it applies just to oil and gas facilities on federal and tribal lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, including about 89,000 producing wells. About one-tenth of US oil and natural gas production comes from federal and tribal lands.

Under the rule, new drilling permit approvals would be contingent on companies taking reasonable precautions to prevent waste. However, the government will make exceptions when some gas is unavoidably lost because of limited pipeline capacity or through certain operations at the sites.

Producers would spend an estimated $19.3 million each year complying with the requirements, according to the bureaus estimates. The changes would allow them to recover an additional $1.8 million worth of gas that would have otherwise been wasted, the agency said. And the government, in turn, is expected to collect an additional $51 million each year in additional royalties.

That makes the measure a triple win for taxpayers, producers and neighboring communities, said Jon Goldstein, senior director of regulatory and legislative affairs at the Environmental Defense Fund. Strong Interior Department methane waste rules are integral for the United States to protect taxpayers from wasted energy resources.

(Updates with details on the rule and stakeholder reaction starting in fourth paragraph.)

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2024 Bloomberg L.P.
BlackRock CEO Larry Fink speaking with Andrew Ross Sorkin during the New York Times DealBook Summit in the Appel Room at the Jazz At Lincoln Center on November 30, 2022 in New York City. Fink issued a letter on March 26, 2024 calling on companies and policy makers to rethink retirement.

From his spot at the helm of the world's largest money manager, BlackRock CEO Larry Fink says it is time to "rethink" retirement.

In the 2024 Annual Chairman Letter to Investors released Tuesday, Fink said the "retirement crisis" is getting serious enough to evoke a national relief effort commensurate with that which addressed the 2008 mortgage crisis.

"America needs an organized, high-level effort to ensure that future generations can live out their final years with dignity," Fink wrote.

He said helping workers invest in personal retirement could be a key to the solution. But he also called for opening the conversation on a classically hot button issue: retirement age.

What to know about 2024 Social Security Retirees set to earn up to $4,873 starting January

Longer life expectancy puts strain on Social Security

Social Security is the most successful anti-poverty program in our countrys history, according to the SSA. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law in 1935 as a retirement program for workers. It was part of the historic New Deal, and the first lump-sum payments were made in 1937.

Payments for workers survivors were added by Congress in 1939 and regular monthly checks started in 1940. Disability benefits were added in 1956.

Retirees can start collecting their payments between ages 62-70., according to the SSA. Medicare benefits kick in at age 65.

It works in a "pay as you go" system, where today's workers fork over a portion of their income and beneficiaries get monthly disbursements.

But Fink says the creation of the Social Security system was based on shorter life expectancies, when the majority of people who contributed fund didn't live long enough enough to be paid in retirement. A recent report from the Social Security Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund estimated that it would not be able to pay full benefits after 2033 without further change.

Fink says people live longer with less financial support

Fink said ongoing medical innovations not only enable more people to live to retirement, but that they will be retired for longer.

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"As a society, we focus a tremendous amount of energy on helping people live longer lives. But not even a fraction of that effort is spent helping people afford those extra years" Fink said, adding that the message to workers about their retirement seems to be: "Youre on your own.

Only a 58% of Americans aged 56-64 reported having a personal retirement account in 2020, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and that is the highest percentage among the working generations.

Fink named affordability, lack of access to employer plans and barriers to enrolling in employer plans as some of the reasons that prevent people from investing in retirement accounts.

But he believes investing in capital markets and rethinking the years of our lives after 65 will be crucial for the addressing retirement crisis.

Fink wants to make retirement investing automatic, rethink years after 65

Fink said companies need to make an concerted effort to make investing in retirement the default option for employees. A federal law going into effect next year requiring just that is a bright spot, he said.

He also said it should be more intuitive to move 401(k) accounts between jobs, and applauded states that have retirement systems for all workers, even if they're in the gig economy.

Given longer life expectancies, he also suggested opening the conversation about the retirement age, citing countries like the Netherlands that gradually raised the retirement age. He acknowledged the political difficulty of that move, but said that there may be options to reward people who want to continue working into their 70s.

Fink said this is not just a policy and economics problem, but fundamental to giving younger generations hope for the future.

"Young people have lost trust in older generations," Fink stated in the letter. "The burden is on us to get it back. And maybe investing for their long-term goals, including retirement, isnt such a bad place to begin."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Larry Fink, BlackRock CEO, raises alarm on Social Security crisis
By Tim Hepher, Allison Lampert and David Shepardson

(Reuters) - It took 80 days. But for the airline industry, enough was enough.

A revolt by U.S. airline bosses helped topple Boeing's top leadership including CEO Dave Calhoun this week, capping weeks of pressure after the freakish Jan. 5 blowout of a door plug on an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 passenger jet, people familiar with the discussions said.

With the company's major U.S. customers agitating for a boardroom meeting without Calhoun, Boeing's board pre-empted their demands with a major upheaval.

Now, after the shakeup that took out the CEO, chairman and head of Boeing's commercial airplanes business, airlines face prolonged uncertainty over jet supplies and are calling for deeper changes - starting with picking a manufacturing heavyweight as CEO.

"It wouldn't surprise me that people said, 'What exactly is the Boeing strategy to change this, not put a Band-Aid on it,' former Air Canada CEO Calin Rovinescu told Reuters.

"Theres a point at which you cannot pretend that everything is fine. And I think this has been the call to action that you probably heard from the airline community.

Boeing said it had nothing to add to comments from Calhoun, who told employees on Monday that he had been considering stepping down as CEO for some time. He added that the company would "fix what isn't working, and we are going to get our company back on the track towards recovery and stability."

The Jan. 5 incident plunged Boeing into a new crisis five years after the second of two fatal crashes grounded the MAX.

Regulators began curbing Boeing's already lagging production. Airlines strained to adapt their schedules to the ongoing delays that meant fewer planes available for delivery.

Boeing struggled to convince customers it would be able to overcome the heavy scrutiny, particularly following safety board reports that focused on weaknesses in the production chain.

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The catalyzing moment was last week, when CEOs of major U.S. MAX customers Southwest, United, Alaska and American demanded to meet the board to express frustration at a lack of progress, sources said. Boeing Chairman Larry Kellner offered to set up bilateral meetings instead.

But over the weekend, Boeing's board pre-empted that action - agreeing to staggered departures of Calhoun, Kellner and planemaking CEO Stan Deal, whose post went to chief operating officer Stephanie Pope. A senior industry source described the shakeup as Boeing management being "fired by its customers."

Insiders noted it was the broadest top-level clear-out since CEO Phil Condit resigned days after the company's finance director was fired in a defense-contract scandal in 2003.

"The U.S. carriers were determined to force regime change," said a source familiar with the discussions.

'OFF THE STAGE'

Some said Calhoun, who claimed the move was his decision, jumped before he was pushed, agreeing to leave by year-end.

FILE PHOTO: Boeing employees and executives attend the delivery of the final 747 jet in Everett

But pressure from the industry and regulators had been growing for weeks, and boiled over when more loose bolts were found in late January.

United CEO Scott Kirby announced it would no longer wait for the delayed MAX 10, Boeing's best hope of countering Airbus' hot-selling A321neo in the busiest part of the market.

"The Max 9 grounding is probably the straw that broke the camel's back for us," Kirby told CNBC.

Kirby promptly flew to France to start talks with Airbus, with Boeing's rival hoping to win a 200-plane deal.

Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci, who is said to have played a particularly active role in pressuring Boeing, told NBC: "It makes me angry. Boeing is better than this."

Such conversations more typically take place in private.

Industry unity had cracked after the MAX groundings that followed crashes in 2018 and 2019 led to lawsuits over delays.

But the intensity of this month's intervention astonished boardroom observers and demonstrated the fragile confidence in Boeing's once-sure grip on safety and reliability issues.

"The dynamic between supplier and customer in the case of Boeing has gone beyond extremes anyone has seen," said independent aviation adviser Dick Forsberg, who helped found one of the largest aircraft leasing firms, Dublin-based Avolon.

Another person familiar with the talks said major U.S. airlines - apart from Delta, which publicly stayed out of the fray - had resolved to get Boeing leaders "off the stage."

The plan gathered speed at an Airlines for America meeting this month, sources told Reuters, confirming a report on the coordinated airline action by The Air Current.

During the meeting, the CEOs met privately with U.S. National Transportation Safety Board chair Jennifer Homendy. After she departed, the CEOs including Kirby said it was time to seek a meeting with the Boeing board, the sources said.

FILE PHOTO: Qatar Airways-Boeing signing ceremony in Washington

CARRIER COUP

While airline bosses went public, the powerful leasing firms who own half the world fleet waded in more discreetly.

At an annual Dublin summit in January, lessors publicly backed Calhoun but delegates were critical in private and predicted it would be weeks before Calhoun was ousted.

A notable exception was budget airline Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary, who defended Calhoun while taking aim at the Boeing division in Seattle where the 737 is built.

Crisis experts acknowledge that under Calhoun, Boeing abandoned the unpopular, legalistic tone it adopted after earlier MAX crashes, publicly admitting to mistakes. That said, he repeatedly insisted that the current management would usher through the "profound changes" demanded by U.S. regulators.

As the dust settles, experts say the carrier coup will be studied for years.

"The commercial aviation base rebelled. I cant think of when thats ever happened," said Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Lester Crown Professor in management practice at Yale School of Management.

"Its career-ending if all of your customers said they dont have confidence in you, and wanted to go to your superiors," he said, adding such collective action was rare in any industry.

Boeing is not alone in facing post-pandemic disruption. Airbus is delaying deliveries due to missing parts and insiders say the volume of quality reports is above target. Engine firm Pratt & Whitney has had a slew of publicized problems.

But airlines say the slump in morale and high turnover in Boeing factories since the pandemic have cast a pall over the production and planning process that will take years to fix.

Airlines insist planes are safe after the earlier MAX crashes led to cockpit changes and a worldwide increase in oversight.

But with some passengers now researching plane models before buying tickets, airlines say more needs to be done to reassure the public.

"What is needed here is indeed someone who has a strong engineering background, who has the patience, the interest, and the disposition to get into the details of what goes on on the manufacturing floor," Rovinescu said of the next Boeing CEO.

(Reporting By Tim Hepher in Paris, Allison Lampert in Montreal and David Shepardson in Washington; additional reporting by Rajesh Kumar Singh in Chicago and David Gaffen in New York; writing by David Gaffen and Tim Hepher; Editing by Nick Zieminski)
By Clare Jim and Xie Yu

HONG KONG (Reuters) - A group of major bondholders of defaulted Chinese developer Shimao Group said on Wednesday it "firmly opposes" the firm's proposal to revamp $11.5 billion of offshore debt, clouding its prospects amid a deepening crisis in the property sector.

"The ad hoc creditor group firmly opposes Shimao's restructuring proposal, (and) will unequivocally vote against it and other scheme creditors ought to do the same," the offshore creditor group's financial adviser Houlihan Lokey said in a statement.

The group did not cite any reason for the opposition, but three Shimao creditors told Reuters they were not happy about the steep haircut in the proposal, as well as a lack of upfront payments and cash payments in the next four to six years.

Shimao, which defaulted on its offshore debt in 2022 after an unprecedented liquidity crisis hit the sector in mid-2021, on Monday laid out detailed restructuring terms to revamp its offshore debt with an aim to cut its debt by 60%.

Shimao would require approval from more than 75% in creditor value to pass its restructuring proposal. The ad-hoc bondholder group holds more than 25% of Shimao's outstanding $6.8 billion dollar bonds.

A separate bank creditor group, advised by Deloitte, holds around $4.7 billion of loans.

A source close to the bank group said the group was also not happy with the latest terms, which they think give worse treatment to the group than when they first started negotiation in 2022.

Shimao and Deloitte did not immediately respond to request for comment.

Separately, Deutsche Bank is preparing a liquidation lawsuit in Hong Kong against Shimao, Reuters reported early this month.

Creditors in both the bondholder and bank groups said after Shimao's proposal this week that a winding-up petition could be useful to the negotiation process.

Shimao's creditors would receive a total of 1.1% consent fee based on the outstanding principal of their debts if they agreed to support the restructuring by end of April, and 0.6% by end of May.

(Editing by Sumeet Chatterjee and Kim Coghill)
CanStays Rental Alliance

Catherine Ratcliffe, Chair of CanStays Rental Alliance Conference 2024

Catherine Ratcliffe, Chair of CanStays Rental Alliance Conference 2024, says leaders in the short-term rental sector will share innovative strategies for professionalization, community engagement, and public safety with a specific focus on the serious issue of human trafficking at the conference.

BANFF, Alberta, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The CanStays Rental Alliance is set to host a pivotal conference in Banff, Alberta, from April 20th to 22nd, 2024, focusing on the critical themes of social impact, professionalization, and public safety within the short-term rental industry. With esteemed industry partners like Airbnb, Beyond Pricing, and WestJet Airlines in attendance, alongside distinguished elected officials including the Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, Federal Minister of Public Safety and Intergovernmental Relations, the Hon. Joseph Schow, Albertas Minister of Tourism & Sport, MP Matt Jeneroux, and MP Chris Warkentin, the event aims to address the pressing issues impacting the industry across Canada.



The conference will serve as a platform for evaluating the industry's impact on essential topics such as access to healthcare, insurance, housing affordability, and safety. Recognizing the global surge in both sex and labor trafficking, the focus of this years conference will be spearheading initiatives that tackle awareness and prevention.

CanStays Rental Alliance partners like Airbnb have demonstrated their commitment to combating human trafficking by dedicating substantial grant funding towards related initiatives. Moreover, numerous industry providers and conference attendees, such as Safely, will be showcasing services that actively conduct background screenings and other resources, contributing to a safer rental environment for everyone.

Catherine Ratcliffe, Conference Chair, emphasized the industry's proactive approach, stating, "Our industry is at the forefront of making meaningful social impacts and enhancing public safety. This conference represents an unparalleled opportunity for leaders in the short-term rental sector to share innovative strategies for professionalization, community engagement, and public safety, with a specific focus on the serious issue of human trafficking. By collaborating with elected officials and leveraging our collective resources, we are setting new standards in responsible hosting and making a real difference to the safety of the industry across Canada.

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The 2024 CanStays Rental Alliance Conference is the major event for the enhancement of short-term rental industry standards. The conference represents a critical step towards balancing growth with responsibility and setting new standards for a safer, more ethical rental landscape across Canada.

ABOUT CANSTAYS RENTAL ALLIANCE

The CanStays Rental Alliance is a collective of industry leaders, policymakers, and community advocates committed to fostering social responsibility, professionalism, and safety within the short-term rental sector. The Alliance seeks to address pressing societal challenges and elevate industry standards for the betterment of communities across Canada.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fbf3b564-3723-4ceb-8f1c-2ac099e3906f





CONTACT: Media Contact: Catherine Ratcliffe Chair of the CanStays Rental Alliance Conference catherine@canstaysrentalalliance.com




Understanding the Dividend Dynamics of Cardinal Health Inc

Cardinal Health Inc (NYSE:CAH) recently announced a dividend of $0.5 per share, payable on 2024-04-15, with the ex-dividend date set for 2024-03-28. 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 Cardinal Health Inc's dividend performance and assess its sustainability.

What Does Cardinal Health Inc Do?

Warning! GuruFocus has detected 5 Warning Signs with CAH.

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Cardinal Health is one of three leading pharmaceutical wholesalers in the U.S., engaged in sourcing and distributing of branded, generic, and specialty pharmaceutical products to pharmacies (retail chains, independent, and mail order), hospitals networks, and healthcare providers. Along with Cencora and McKesson, the three comprise well over 90% of the U.S. pharmaceutical wholesale industry. Cardinal Health also supplies medical-surgical products and equipment to healthcare facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Cardinal Health Inc's Dividend Analysis

A Glimpse at Cardinal Health Inc's Dividend History

Cardinal Health Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 1985. Dividends are currently distributed on a quarterly basis. Cardinal Health Inc has increased its dividend each year since 1988. 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 36 years. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.

Breaking Down Cardinal Health Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, Cardinal Health Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 1.80% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 1.80%. This suggests an expectation of same dividend payments over the next 12 months.

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Over the past three years, Cardinal Health Inc's annual dividend growth rate was 1.00%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate increased to 1.20% per year. And over the past decade, Cardinal Health Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 5.80%.

Based on Cardinal Health Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Cardinal Health Inc stock as of today is approximately 1.91%.

Cardinal Health 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, Cardinal Health Inc's dividend payout ratio is 0.29.

Cardinal Health Inc's profitability rank, which offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers, stands at 7 out of 10 as of 2023-12-31, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported net profit in 8 years out of the past 10 years.

Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Cardinal Health Inc's growth rank of 7 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors.

Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Cardinal Health Inc's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Cardinal Health Inc's revenue has increased by approximately 14.50% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 75% 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, Cardinal Health Inc's earnings increased by approximately 2.00% per year on average, a rate that outperforms approximately 40% of global competitors.

Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 1.80%, which outperforms approximately 24.19% of global competitors, further underscores its financial health.

Next Steps

In conclusion, Cardinal Health Inc's consistent dividend payments, coupled with a modest but steady dividend growth rate, a manageable payout ratio, and strong profitability and growth metrics, paint a picture of a company that's committed to rewarding shareholders while maintaining financial flexibility for future opportunities. As value investors analyze these factors, they can gain insights into the company's ability to sustain its dividend payments amidst industry trends and economic cycles. With a solid track record and a strategic position in the pharmaceutical supply chain, Cardinal Health Inc may continue to be a compelling choice for dividend-seeking investors.

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.


(Bloomberg) -- President Xi Jinping met with a group of American business executives in Beijing including Blackstones Stephen Schwarzman and Qualcomm Inc.s Cristiano Amon as China is seeking to restore confidence in the economy and keep relations with the US on a stable footing.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Chinese leader on Wednesday met with representatives from American business, strategic and academic communities, the official Xinhua News Agency said. State broadcaster CCTV named a number of executives present at the meeting and said Xi took a group photo with the participants before the event.

China is trying to show it welcomes foreign businesses, but whipsawing tensions with Washington, a shaky economic recovery and raids on consulting firms have damped investor enthusiasm. For global executives, the meeting was a chance to underscore interest in participating in the giant Chinese market despite deepening geopolitical tensions and moves in China to favor local competitors.

Other attendees include Raj Subramaniam, chief executive officer of FedEx Corp.; Evan Greenberg, CEO of the insurer Chubb Ltd.; Stephen Orlins, president of the National Committee on US-China Relations; Craig Allen, president of the US-China Business Council; and Mark Carney, chairman of Bloomberg Inc., according to CCTV.

US-China ties have stabilized after Xi met with President Joe Biden in San Francisco in November, although they continue to dispute over a broad range of issues spanning trade curbs and accusations of cyberattacks.

On Tuesday, China said it filed a complaint to the World Trade Organization over US electric vehicle subsidies. Earlier in the week, the US and UK accused state-backed Chinese hackers of targeting politicians, companies and dissidents, as well as stealing troves of British voter data.

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Relations with the US risk worsening with former President Donald Trump already vowing massive tariffs on the campaign trail that could shrink trade between the two nations to practically nothing. Trumps rhetoric may add pressure on Biden to take harsher measures in the run-up to election day.

Read More: Tim Cooks Love for China Helps Xi Fight Fears of Economic Slump

China appears to be ramping up outreach to foreign investors as it seeks to achieve an annual growth target of around 5%, a goal deemed ambitious by some economists. The Ministry of Commerce in January pledged to hold a round-table meeting with foreign companies every month to hear and address their concerns.

However, investors have complained about whiplash as China pursues its dual goals of development and security, with executives hearing warm words only to then see authorities probe consultancy firms, expand a vague anti-spy law and restrict access to data. A structural economic slowdown has also led executives to re-evaluate the balance between risks and rewards for operating in the country.

Prior to the pandemic, Xi used to hold more regular gatherings with executives at events such as the annual Boao Forum for Asia, which is sometimes described as Chinas Davos. Hes not expected to attend this years conference, which started Tuesday in Hainan.

Read More: US CEOs Extend China Stay on Last-Minute Invite to Meet Xi

Many US CEOs are in Beijing for the annual China Development Forum, which gathers together global business leaders and Chinese officials. Some executives attending the confab extended their stay or moved previously planned appointments in order to meet with Xi after receiving a formal invitation last week, Bloomberg News reported.

(Updates with names of CEOs who attended the meeting and additional context throughout)

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2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Coave Therapeutics

Paris, France, March 27, 2024  Coave Therapeutics (Coave), a genetic medicine company focused on developing life-changing therapies, announces that its management will be attending the following upcoming investor and industry conferences:



Cell & Gene Meeting on the Med  April 9-11 ; Rome, Italy

Company Presentation by CEO Rodolphe Clerval on April 10 at 13.45 CET



LSX World Congress  April 29-30 ; London, UK

CEO Rodolphe Clerval attending and available for investor meetings



BioEquity Europe  May 12-24 ; San Sebastian, Spain

Company Presentation by CEO Rodolphe Clerval - Date/Time TBC



Gene Therapy Analytical Development Europe Summit - May 22-24 ; London, UK

Presentation by COO Patricia Francon on May 24 at 10.00 BST



In addition, Coaves scientific team will be present at the upcoming scientific, medical & regulatory conferences:

ARVO (Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology) - May 5-6 ; Seattle, WA, US

ASGCT (American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy) - May 7-11 ; Baltimore, MD, US

***

About Coave Therapeutics

At Coave Therapeutics, we are leading the transition of genetic medicine from rare to prevalent conditions, starting with neurodegenerative and eye diseases. Our proprietary ALIGATER (Advanced Vectors-Ligand Conjugates) platform introduces chemical modifications onto AAV capsids or Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs) to overcome the limitations of current vectors on efficacy, safety, and manufacturability.

With low doses and optimized routes of administration, our conjugated vectors have demonstrated markedly improved transduction and biodistribution in the central nervous system and the eye across different species. Our diverse pipeline of novel genetic medicines can potentially transform the lives of people afflicted by rare and prevalent neurodegenerative and ocular diseases  including genetically and non-genetically defined indications.

Headquartered in Paris, France, Coave Therapeutics is backed by leading international life sciences investors. For more information about the science, pipeline, and people, please visit https://coavetx.com/ and follow us on LinkedIn .

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CONTACTS

Coave Therapeutics

Rodolphe Clerval, CEO

contact@coavetx.com

MEDiSTRAVA

Sylvie Berrebi, Leila Adlam, Mark Swallow

coavetx@medistrava.com

Tel: +44 (0)203 928 6900




Dive Brief:

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf opened a drive-thru-only location in Rialto, California, the company said in a press release Monday.

The drive-thru-only store  the first in its system  will offer drive-thru, pickup and delivery from the companys app.

The chain plans to open more of these types of stores in markets with high traffic and high mobile app usage, a spokesperson wrote in an email to Restaurant Dive.

Dive Insight:

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, which has over 1,000 locations globally, expects to sign more than 225 store commitments with multi-unit and single-unit operations this year, according to QSR Magazine. These units will likely be a mix of traditional and non-traditional locations like airports, universities, casinos, travel plazas and other locations. The company is looking at existing and new markets like Illinois, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Canada and Mexico.

The drive-thru-only location in Rialto is 1,200 square feet, but this design be as small as 850 square feet, the spokesperson wrote. Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf will likely pursue a smaller footprint. The company also offers a variety of sizes to operators, including 200-square-foot kiosks up to 1,800-square-foot traditional locations.

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf began to refocus on franchising last year, shifting away from corporate store development, according to Franchise Times. In the U.S., the chain has 200 locations in California, Hawaii, Nevada and Arizona  presenting significant growth opportunities.

The company also completed a brand refresh last year, and has been investing in digital technology, including a redesigned loyalty program and a refreshed app. Roughly 40% of digital sales occur within its app, and order-ahead for pickup demand continues to rise, according to Franchise Times.

This story was originally published on Restaurant Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Restaurant Dive newsletter.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for COLTENE Holding is CHF79.04 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of CHF58.80 suggests COLTENE Holding is potentially 26% undervalued

When compared to theindustry average discount to fair value of 31%, COLTENE Holding's competitors seem to be trading at a greater discount

Does the March share price for COLTENE Holding AG (VTX:CLTN) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model.

See our latest analysis for COLTENE Holding

The Method

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars:

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10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (CHF, Millions) CHF18.3m CHF17.7m CHF20.2m CHF20.7m CHF21.1m CHF21.4m CHF21.6m CHF21.7m CHF21.9m CHF21.9m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 2.62% Est @ 1.88% Est @ 1.35% Est @ 0.99% Est @ 0.73% Est @ 0.55% Est @ 0.42% Present Value (CHF, Millions) Discounted @ 4.6% CHF17.5 CHF16.2 CHF17.6 CHF17.3 CHF16.8 CHF16.3 CHF15.7 CHF15.1 CHF14.5 CHF14.0

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = CHF161m

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 0.1%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 4.6%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = CHF22m (1 + 0.1%)  (4.6% 0.1%) = CHF489m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= CHF489m ( 1 + 4.6%)10= CHF311m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is CHF472m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of CHF58.8, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 26% discount to where the stock price trades currently. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent.

dcf

Important Assumptions

Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at COLTENE Holding as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 4.6%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.977. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for COLTENE Holding

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Medical Equipment market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Swiss market.

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Threat

Dividends are not covered by earnings.

Looking Ahead:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. Can we work out why the company is trading at a discount to intrinsic value? For COLTENE Holding, we've compiled three fundamental factors you should further research:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for COLTENE Holding that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does CLTN's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the SWX every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Thames Water

Thames Water held a crunch board meeting on Wednesday amid a scramble to secure hundreds of millions of pounds from shareholders.

Directors of the troubled supplier are racing to finalise a 750m lifeline from investors, with the threat of special administration looming as Thames reels from vast debts and poor performance.

Industry sources have signalled that this payment could be significantly reduced by shareholders as the business braces for major fines from regulator Ofwat. The concerns were first reported by Sky News.

Without the extra money from investors, who include Canadian pension fund Omers and the Universities Superannuation Scheme, Thames would be at risk of relying on a taxpayer-backed bailout. The business needs billions of pounds to survive.

Thames announced last year that investors were willing to inject 3.25bn into the business, with 750m expected in 2024.

However, this was dependent on certain milestones being met, including Ofwat allowing a significant increase to household water bills.

Thames has borrowings of nearly 19bn.

If the company is put into special administration, it is estimated that as much as 5bn of financial support would be needed to keep customers connected.

Thames said last October that shareholders were prepared to provide 750m subject to satisfaction of certain conditions, including the preparation of a business plan that underpins a more focused turnaround that delivers targeted performance improvements for customers, the environment and other stakeholders over the next three years and is supported by appropriate regulatory arrangements.

In a prospectus published last year, the company said there was no certainty the money would be received in 2024. Government officials have been working on contingency plans for the rescue of Thames in recent months, under the code name Project Timber.

There is concern that Ofwat risks tipping the business over if it levies fines for poor performance.

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Sir Robert Goodwill, the Conservative chairman of the environment committee, said last month that MPs were concerned it may not be in Ofwats interest to use the full extent of its powers given the impact that the failure of a major business would have on the stability of the sector and the public purse.

He said: We have real concerns that Ofwats enforcement powers place it in a situation whereby enforcing regulations and issuing fines against consistently failing entities will place a further financial burden on these entities and increase the risk of corporate failure.

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Decklar Resources Inc.

Decklar Resources Inc. and its co-venturer Millenium Oil & Gas Company Limited announce continued crude oil injection volumes from the Oza Oil Field through the Trans Niger Pipeline to the Bonny Export Terminal.

Decklar and Millenium sell additional crude oil production from the Oza Oil Field to a local refinery in Edo State.

CALGARY, Alberta, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Decklar Resources Inc. (TSX-V: DKL) (OTC: DKLRF) (FSE: A1U1) (the Company or Decklar) and its co-venturer Millenium Oil & Gas Company Limited (Millenium) are pleased to announce ongoing crude oil injection volumes into the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) for transport to and export from the Bonny Export Terminal from the Oza Oil Field and continued sales to a local refinery in Edo State.

Delivery of Crude Oil from the Oza Oil Field

Decklar and Millenium have injected over 18,400 barrels of crude oil (bbls) into the TNP for transport to the Bonny Export Terminal thus far in 2024. Decklar and Millenium have injected a total of 34,600 barrels of crude oil into the Bonny Export Terminal from commencement of TNP pipeline operation in late 2023. Crude oil production from the Oza Oil Field through the TNP to the Bonny Export Terminal is being sold to Shell Western Supply and Trading Limited (Shell). Crude oil held in storage at the Oza Oil Field and crude oil being produced into storage tanks from the Oza-1 and Oza-4 wells is being transported by truck a short distance in-field to the transfer pumping station at the Oza Oil Field for injection into the TNP. The first crude oil export cargo of 15,000 bbls to Shell was loaded on board a vessel with a bill of lading date of February 7, 2024, with sales proceeds expected in the last week of March. Decklar and Millenium are expecting another crude oil export nomination notice from Shell before the end of March 2024 for the export of another 15,000 barrels of crude oil currently held in the Bonny Export Terminal tanks.

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In addition, total deliveries to date in 2024 to the Edo refinery totalled over 15,000 bbls.

Sanmi Famuyide, CEO of Decklar Resources, said, We are very pleased to be announcing the significant milestone of the first crude oil exports from the Oza Oil Field through the TNP and Bonny Export Terminal. In addition, crude oil is still being trucked to the local refinery customer in Edo State. The restoration and continued operation and availability of the Trans Niger Pipeline connection between the Oza Oil Field and the Bonny Export Terminal and delivery and sales of crude oil to the local refinery has allowed Decklar and Millenium to deliver a steady stream of crude oil to market and to generate a continuing revenue stream. With continued revenues, the Companys financial position will improve enabling progress with additional field development activities including re-entries and drilling plans. In addition, the approximately 8,000 barrels of crude oil Decklar and Millenium previously delivered to the Forcados export terminal is expected to have a vessel nomination in the next few weeks with export and sales coming thereafter.

For further information:

Sanmi Famuyide

Chief Executive Officer Telephone: +234 703 332 2265

Email: sanmi@decklarresources.com

David Halpin

Chief Financial Officer Telephone: +1 403 816 3029

Email: david.halpin@decklarresources.com

Investor Relations: info@decklarresources.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.

Cautionary Language

Certain statements made and information contained herein constitute "forward-looking information" (within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation), including, but not limited to, statements regarding: obtaining and maintaining necessary permits and agreements to allow access and production into pipelines and deliveries of crude oil by truck, the timing for payment of crude oil sales, the final execution of necessary agreements to sell additional crude oil, the maintaining of stable crude oil production, the ability to transport crude oil by pipeline or truck, the continued access to functioning pipelines and the availability of export vessels. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Such statements and information (together, "forward looking statements") relate to future events or the Company's future performance, business prospects or opportunities.

All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect, "may", "will", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties relating to, among other things, changes in oil prices, results of exploration and development activities, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of materials and equipment, timeliness of government or other regulatory approvals, actual performance of facilities, availability of financing on reasonable terms, availability of third party service providers, equipment and processes relative to specifications and expectations and unanticipated environmental impacts on operations. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

The Company provides no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date of this document or to revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.




BOURNE  A massive container ship that had lost power slammed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday morning, sending vehicles and people into the water below. Mariners in Massachusetts said the tragedy shows just how difficult it is to operate the vessels.

Since navigating through bridges is such a common scenario for any mariner, it's a big part of the training at Massachusetts Maritime Academy at the entrance to Cape Cod.

How cargo ship operators train

When the staff awoke to reports of tragedy in Baltimore, the news hit home.

"There's no substitute for being at sea," said captain Michael Burns, executive director of the school's Maritime Center for Responsible Energy, which houses the next best thing. It's a video-game quality simulator to prepare for real-life scenarios that are far from any game.

A simulator shows what it's like to learn how to operate a cargo ship. / Credit: CBS Boston

In a demonstration Tuesday, Burns powered the system up with a view from a container ship approaching the Verrazzano Bridge in New York City.

How long does it take to stop a cargo ship?

"It's extremely challenging, and takes years of experience and training in order to be able to do this safely," he said. "It can take up to a mile for some of these ships to get stopped, depending on the circumstances, so we really need to think well out, miles ahead of the ship."

Near Mass Maritime, ships regularly move through Cape Cod Bridges some 60 miles south of the major cargo ships pulling into the Port of Boston.

"You get all that force, all that momentum just going, sliding through the water," said captain Angel Montanez, who's an assistant port engineer in Boston's port. "If you're going so fast in the water, you just don't have brakes. You just can't stop, or drop the anchor, because by the time the anchor goes out and grabs something, just swings around or stops it from going the direction it's going, it's too late."

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What can be learned from Baltimore bridge collapse

What happened in Baltimore is a tragedy that he and the instructors at Mass Maritime Academy hope the industry can learn from.

"Certainly we try to prepare our cadets for these type of scenarios," Burns said. "Every ship has emergency procedures for these type of things."

Eye Opener: Details emerge on what happened before the Baltimore bridge collapse

New details on Baltimore Key Bridge collapse, rescue efforts and more

Mega Millions $1.3 billion winning ticket sold in New Jersey
Disney (DIS) activist Nelson Peltz has secured another endorsement in his high-profile proxy battle against the entertainment giant.

On Wednesday, proxy advisory firm Egan-Jones joined Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) in recommending shareholders vote for Peltz, of Trian Fund Management, to join Disney's board.

Peltz is currently seeking board seats for himself and former Disney CFO Jay Rasulo.

ISS serves as one of the most influential proxy advisory firms. Its recommendation earlier this month signaled new life for Peltz's campaign after Glass Lewis, another high-profile firm, advised shareholders to support Disney's current board and withhold votes for the nominees put forth by Trian and fellow activist Blackwells Capital.

While ISS said shareholders should not vote for Rasulo's addition to the board, Egan-Jones also supports Rasulo's nomination.

To make room for Trian's two nominees, the firm advised shareholders to withhold votes for current board members Maria Elena Lagomasino and Michael B.G. Froman.

In a report published late Tuesday and viewed by Yahoo Finance, Egan-Jones said it sees "very little downside and a lot of upsides in putting the Trian nominees on the board."

The firm criticized Disney's recent financial performance, describing it as "mediocre" in addition to claiming the company's business model is "built for the last decade, but not forward looking and flexible enough to ensure success in the next."

Egan-Jones added Disney has a desire to "protect the status quo for as long as possible and at all costs" and that its "apparent lack of a wholistic, deep or long-term succession plan" serves as a sizable risk.

"The contact list of potential CEOs and for that matter COOs or other executive candidates probably makes Mr. Peltz worth his cost as a Board member," the firm said. "More importantly, however, by electing two Trian Nominees investors can ensure that the Board must listen to new and different ideas (one Board member to propose, one to second)."

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If the proxy battle continues to a vote, a shareholder meeting set to take place on April 3 will ultimately determine the board's fate.

Nelson Peltz, Trian Fund Management founder and CEO, at the 2015 Delivering Alpha on July 15, 2015. (David A. Grogan/CNBC/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images) (CNBC via Getty Images)

Last year, Peltz and his hedge fund renewed a push to shake up Disney's board as the stock price hit multiyear lows.

Disney has been grappling with challenges that include a declining linear TV business, slower growth in its parks business, and losses in its streaming business.

Other shareholders have jumped into the fray as the proxy battle gains steam. Trian has received support from fellow activist investor Ancora.

Additionally, more than a dozen current and former public company directors sent a letter to Disneys board last week in support of Peltz and his Trian Fund.

Meanwhile, ValueAct Capital has come out against the billionaire investor  giving Disney an extra boost in its fight. The activist entered into an information-sharing agreement with Disney, which ensures it will support the media giant's recommended slate of board nominees in exchange for information.

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon has also publicly endorsed Disney's current board, along with Bob Iger's leadership. Notably, the bank is currently serving as a defensive adviser to the media giant.

Disney has also received backing from the grandchildren of Walt Disney and his brother Roy, in addition to Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple CEO Steve Jobs and a longtime investor in the company.

With contributing reporting from Yahoo Finance's David Hollerith.

Alexandra Canal is a Senior Reporter at Yahoo Finance. Follow her on X @allie_canal, LinkedIn, and email her at alexandra.canal@yahoofinance.com.

Click here for the latest stock market news and in-depth analysis, including events that move stocks

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Xanadu Mines Ltd.

Figure 1

Map of Mongolia, showing location of the Red Mountain Mining Lease.

Figure 2

The Red Mountain Mining Lease with designed drill holes and target locations.

Figure 3

Exploration drilling has commenced at Red Mountain.

Figure 4

Target 33 showing previous drilling and trenching(2) and planned drilling 2024.

Figure 5

Target 10 showing previous drilling and planned drilling 2024(4).

Figure 6

Target 10 showing previous drilling and planned drilling 2024(6).

TORONTO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Xanadu Mines Ltd (ASX: XAM, TSX: XAM) (Xanadu or the Company) is pleased to advise an initial 5,000m diamond drilling programme to test five main target areas at the highly prospective 100% owned Red Mountain copper and gold Project in the South Gobi region of Mongolia is now underway, with drilling expected to be completed by mid-May, and all assays available by end-June.



Highlights

Exploration drilling focused on discovery of shallow high-grade gold and copper-gold deposit, akin to the shallower parts of the Northparkes copper gold porphyry deposits in NSW, Australia .

Systematic diamond drilling program designed to test five high-priority targets, following up on more recent trenching and previous drilling; compelling results from the latter are highlighted, below:

First results from the drilling program are anticipated late April.



Xanadus Executive Chairman and Managing Director, Mr Colin Moorhead, said,

Drilling has commenced at our 100% owned Red Mountain copper and gold project with an initial 5,000m diamond hole programme targeting five of our highest priority targets. Red Mountain offers a rare opportunity to access a large, under-explored mineral district. We are conducting a systematic exploration program, including diamond drilling, that we expect will provide a new perspective on the mineral potential of the Red Mountain district. Xanadu is entering an exciting period of new opportunities for discovery and growth.

Exploration Program Design

Five thousand meters of drilling has been designed to test five shallow high-grade gold and copper-gold targets across the Red Mountain Lease (Figures 1 and 2). Drilling is targeting:

Shallow gold at Target 33,

High-grade copper sulphide lodes at Target 10, and

Shallow porphyry targets at Nowie, Stockwork and Bavuu (Figure 3).







Map of Mongolia, showing location of the Red Mountain Mining Lease.

Figure 1: Map of Mongolia, showing location of the Red Mountain Mining Lease.

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The Red Mountain Mining Lease with designed drill holes and target locations.





Figure 2: The Red Mountain Mining Lease with designed drill holes and target locations.

Exploration drilling has commenced at Red Mountain.





Figure 3: Exploration drilling has commenced at Red Mountain.

Target 33  Shallow Epithermal Gold Mineralisation

Target 33 is a 1,000-metre-long and 100-wide-zone of alteration and anomalous gold mineralisation associated with an east west trending intrusion. Trenching and limited reverse circulation drilling in 2017 encountered significant widths of gold mineralisation (Figure 4).

Previous results1 include:

OURC043 40m @ 1.06g/t Au from 26m Including 22m @ 1.82g/t Au from 40m Including 10m @ 3.7g/t Au from 50m OURC055 30m @ 0.68g/t Au from surface Including 4m @ 2.82g/t Au from surface Including 8m @ 0.39g/t Au from 4m And 16m @ 1.13g/t Au from 42m Including 8m @ 1.7g/t Au from 42m

Current Drilling Program: Five shallow diamond drill holes have been planned to test a 300m strike across the center of the gold anomalism at Target 33. Follow-up drilling will be planned once interpretation of the initial results has been completed.

Target 33 showing previous drilling and trenching(2) and planned drilling 2024.





Figure 4: Target 33 showing previous drilling and trenching2 and planned drilling 2024.

Target 10  High-Grade Cu and Porphyry Cu-Au Target

Target 10 was first identified in 2017 as a copper and gold in soil anomaly with a molybdenum halo and coincident bullseye magnetic feature. Two diamond drill holes were drilled into the magnetic feature, returning3:

OUDDH089 6.2m @ 4.24% Cu and 1.9g/t Au, from 128m Including 0.9m @ 22.1%Cu and 8.27g/t Au, from 129m And 79.5m @ 0.26% Cu and 0.21g/t Au, from 198.5m OUDDH090 138m @ 0.27% Cu and 0.25g/t Au, from 200m

Current Drilling Program: Three shallow drill holes and one deeper drill hole are planned to follow up on these results. Shallow holes are targeting around the high-grade copper intercept in OUDDH089 and are designed to determine the orientation of this zone, with the aim of delivering further expansion. A single deeper hole is planned to scissor the broad porphyry intercept in OUDDH090, testing the theory that this is associated with a south dipping structure, clearly visible in the magnetics (Figure 5)

Target 10 showing previous drilling and planned drilling 2024(4).





Figure 5: Target 10 showing previous drilling and planned drilling 20244.

Bavuu Porphyry  Porphyry Cu-Au Target

Bavuu Porphyry was first identified in 2016 as a large-scale copper and gold soil anomaly. Trenching completed in 2016 returned very broad porphyry intercepts of copper and gold mineralisation5;

OUCS030A 188m @ 0.24% Cu and 0.18g/t Au Including 52 m @ 0.36% Cu and 0.22g/t Au OUCS030B 220m @ 0.15% Cu and 0.16g/t Au Two shallow reverse circulation drill holes were drilled under OUCS030A with the deeper hole returning; OURC032 168m @ 0.22% Cu and 0.25g/t Au from surface Including 32m @ 0.31% Cu and 0.4g/t Au from 132m

Current Drilling Program: Two diamond drill holes have been designed to test behind this intercept and along strike to the west (Figure 6).

Target 10 showing previous drilling and planned drilling 2024(6).





Figure 6: Target 10 showing previous drilling and planned drilling 20246.

Nowie Porphyry  Porphyry Cu-Au Target

No work has previously been conducted at Nowie by Xanadu. However, multiple drill hole collars and trenches from previous explorers are visible at surface. Soil sampling at Nowie has defined a 500m long copper in soil anomaly greater than 0.1% Cu and 0.25g/t Au. Geological mapping has identified strong oxide copper at surface associated with porphyry veining.

Current Drilling Program: Three diamond drill holes have been designed to test beneath the 500m strike of surface mineralisation.

Stockwork Porphyry  Porphyry Cu-Au Target

Limited work has previously been conducted at Stockwork by Xanadu. However, like the Nowie propsect, multiple drill hole collars and trenches from previous explorers are visible at surface. Soil sampling at Stockwork has defined a 650m long copper in soil anomaly greater than 0.05% Cu. Geological mapping has identified strong oxide copper at surface associated with intense porphyry veining and a reinterpretation based on this mapping has suggested an alternative orientation to drill test for the system at Stockwork.

Current Drilling Program: Three shallow diamond drill holes have been designed to test this target.

About Red Mountain

The 100% owned Red Mountain project, located within the Dornogovi Province of southern Mongolia, approximately 420 kilometres southeast of Ulaanbaatar (Figures 1 and 2).

The project covers approximately 57 square kilometres in a frontier terrane with significant mineral endowment and has a granted 30-year mining licence. Red Mountain comprises a cluster of outcropping mineralising porphyry intrusions which display features typically found in the shallower parts of porphyry systems where narrow dykes and patchy mineralisation branch out above a mineralised stock. This underexplored porphyry district includes multiple porphyry copper-gold centres, mineralised tourmaline breccia pipes copper-gold/base metal skarns and high-grade epithermal gold veins.

Existing porphyry mineralisation at Red Mountain is hosted within narrow stockwork zones that have been focused around several narrow structurally controlled monzonite porphyry dykes. Emplacement of mineralisation appears to be controlled by intersection of northeast and north-northwest trending structures. The quartz-chalcopyrite-bornite stockwork mineralisation is associated with strong reddening albite-sericite-biotite-magnetite (potassic) alteration assemblage in the host lithology. The thin nature of the mineralising dykes, their irregular intrusion geometry, and the patchy distribution of stockwork mineralisation are all features typically found in the shallower parts of porphyry systems, where narrow dykes and patchy mineralisation branch out above a mineralised stock. Similar orebody geometries are found in the shallower parts of the Northparkes porphyry copper-gold (Cu-Au) deposits in NSW, where porphyry mineralisation has also been tightly focused along a controlling structure adjacent to a felsic pluton. Like Northparkes, there is the potential for further mineralisation along the main structures at Diorite Hill and Stockwork Hill, and the likelihood that mineralisation extends (and could amalgamate) at depth.

About Xanadu Mines

Xanadu is an ASX and TSX listed Exploration company operating in Mongolia. We give investors exposure to globally significant, large-scale copper-gold discoveries and low-cost inventory growth. Xanadu maintains a portfolio of exploration projects and remains one of the few junior explorers on the ASX or TSX who jointly control a globally significant copper-gold deposit in our flagship Kharmagtai project. Xanadu is the Operator of a 50-50 JV with Zijin Mining Group in Khuiten Metals Pte Ltd, which controls 76.5% of the Kharmagtai project.

For further information on Xanadu, please visit: www.xanadumines.com or contact:

Colin Moorhead

Executive Chairman & Managing Director

E: colin.moorhead@xanadumines.com

P: +61 2 8280 7497

This Announcement was authorised for release by Xanadus Board of Directors.

Appendix 1: Statements and Disclaimers

Competent Person Statement

The information in this announcement that relates to exploration results is based on information compiled by Dr Andrew Stewart, who is responsible for the exploration data, comments on exploration target sizes, QA/QC and geological interpretation and information. Dr Stewart, who is an employee of Xanadu and is a Member of the Australasian Institute of Geoscientists, has sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity he is undertaking to qualify as the Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves and the National Instrument 43-101. Dr Stewart consents to the inclusion in the report of the matters based on this information in the form and context in which it appears.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this Announcement, including information as to the future financial or operating performance of Xanadu and its projects may also include statements which are forwardlooking statements that may include, amongst other things, statements regarding targets, estimates and assumptions in respect of mineral reserves and mineral resources and anticipated grades and recovery rates, production and prices, recovery costs and results, capital expenditures and are or may be based on assumptions and estimates related to future technical, economic, market, political, social and other conditions. These forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Xanadu, are inherently subject to significant technical, business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from estimated or anticipated events or results reflected in such forwardlooking statements.

Xanadu disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly or release any revisions to any forwardlooking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, circumstances or results or otherwise after the date of this Announcement or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, other than required by the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and the Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). The words believe, expect, anticipate, indicate, contemplate, target, plan, intends, continue, budget, estimate, may, will, schedule and similar expressions identify forwardlooking statements.

All forwardlooking statements made in this Announcement are qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements. Investors are cautioned that forwardlooking statements are not guarantee of future performance and accordingly investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forwardlooking statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

For further information please visit the Xanadu Mines Website at www.xanadumines.com.

Appendix 2: Red Mountain Table 1 (JORC Code, 2012)

Set out below is Section 1 and Section 2 of Table 1 under the JORC Code, 2012 for the Red Mountain project. Data provided by Xanadu. This Table 1 updates the JORC Table 1 disclosure dated 27 September 2022.7

1.1 JORC TABLE 1 - SECTION 1 - SAMPLING TECHNIQUES AND DATA

Criteria Commentary Sampling techniques The exploration results are based on diamond drill core samples, reverse circulation ( RC ) chip samples and channel samples from surface trenches.

Representative  core samples were split from PQ, HQ & NQ diameter diamond drill core on site using rock saws, on a routine two metre sample interval that also honours lithological/intrusive contacts.

The orientation of the cut line is controlled using the core orientation line ensuring uniformity of core splitting wherever the core has been successfully oriented.

Sample intervals are defined and subsequently checked by geologists, and sample tags are attached (stapled) to the plastic core trays for every sample interval.

RC chip samples are  splits from 1m intervals using a 75%:25% riffle splitter to obtain a 3kg sample.

RC samples are uniform 2m samples formed from the combination of two  split 1m samples.

Trench samples are collected as 2m composite from 30m above the trench toe.

Sampling generally honours lithological contacts.

Trench samples are continuous along the length of the trench Drilling techniques The exploration results are based upon diamond drilling of PQ, HQ and NQ diameters with both standard and triple tube core recovery configurations, RC drilling and surface trenching with channel sampling.

All drill core drilled by Xanadu has been oriented using the Reflex Ace tool. Drill sample recovery Diamond drill core recoveries were assessed using the standard industry (best) practice which involves removing the core from core trays; reassembling multiple core runs in a v-rail; measuring core lengths with a tape measure, assessing recovery against core block depth measurements and recording any measured core loss for each core run.

Diamond core recoveries average 97% through mineralisation.

Overall, core quality is good, with minimal core loss. Where there is localised faulting and or fracturing core recoveries decrease, however, this is a very small percentage of the mineralised intersections.

RC recoveries are measured using whole weight of each 1m intercept measured before splitting

Analysis of recovery results vs grade shows no significant trends that might indicate sampling bias introduced by variable recovery in fault/fracture zones. Logging All drill core is geologically logged by well-trained geologists using a modified Anaconda-style logging system methodology. The Anaconda method of logging and mapping is specifically designed for porphyry Cu-Au mineral systems.

Logging of lithology, alteration and mineralogy is intrinsically qualitative in nature. However, the logging is subsequently supported by 4 Acid ICP-MS (48 element) geochemistry and SWIR spectral mineralogy (facilitating semi-quantitative / calculated mineralogical, lithological and alteration classification) which is integrated with the logging to improve cross section interpretation and 3D geological model development.

Drill core is also systematically logged for both geotechnical features and geological structures. Where drill core has been successfully oriented, the orientation of structures and geotechnical features are also routinely measured.

Both wet and dry core photos are taken after core has been logged and marked-up but before drill core has been cut. Sub -sampling techniques and sample preparation All drill core samples are  core splits from either PQ, HQ or NQ diameter cores. A routine 2m sample interval is used, but this is varied locally to honour lithological/intrusive contacts. The minimum allowed sample length is 30cm.

Core is appropriately split (onsite) using diamond core saws with the cut line routinely located relative to the core orientation line (where present) to provide consistency of sample split selection.

The diamond saws are regularly flushed with water to minimize potential contamination.

A field duplicate  core sample is collected every 30 th sample to ensure the representivity of the in-situ material collected. The performance of these field duplicates is routinely analysed as part of Xanadus sample QC process.

Routine sample preparation and analyses of DDH samples were carried out by ALS Mongolia LLC ( ALS Mongolia ), who operates an independent sample preparation and analytical laboratory in Ulaanbaatar.

All samples were prepared to meet standard quality control procedures as follows: Crushed to 75% passing 2mm, split to 1kg, pulverised to 85% passing 200 mesh (75 microns) and split to 150g sample pulp.

ALS Mongolia Geochemistry labs quality management system is certified to ISO 9001:2008.

The sample support (sub-sample mass and comminution) is appropriate for the grainsize and Cu-Au distribution of the porphyry Cu-Au mineralization and associated host rocks.

Trench samples by previous explorers between 2001 to 2007 were prepared and assayed by SGS Mongolia. Quality of assay data and laboratory tests All XAM samples were routinely assayed by ALS Mongolia for gold.

Au is determined using a 25g fire assay fusion, cupelled to obtain a bead, and digested with Aqua Regia, followed by an atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) finish, with a lower detection limit ( LDL ) of 0.01 ppm.

All samples were also submitted to ALS Mongolia for the 48-element package ME-ICP61 using a four-acid digest (considered to be an effective total digest for the elements relevant to the MRE). Where copper is over-range (>1% Cu), it is analysed by a second analytical technique (Cu-OG62), which has a higher upper detection limit ( UDL ) of 5% copper.

Quality assurance has been managed by insertion of appropriate Standards (1:30 samples - suitable Ore Research Pty Ltd certified standards), Blanks (1:30 samples), Duplicates (1:30 samples -  core duplicate) by Xanadu.

Assay results outside the optimal range for methods were re-analysed by appropriate methods.

Ore Research Pty Ltd certified copper and gold standards have been implemented as a part of QC procedures, as well as coarse and pulp blanks, and certified matrix matched copper-gold standards.

QC monitoring is an active and ongoing processes on batch-by-batch basis by which unacceptable results are re-assayed as soon as practicable.

Prior to 2014: Cu, Ag, Pb, Zn, As and Mo were routinely determined using a three-acid-digestion of a 0.3g sub-sample followed by an AAS finish (AAS21R) at SGS Mongolia. Samples were digested with nitric, hydrochloric and perchloric acids to dryness before leaching with hydrochloric acid to dissolve soluble salts and made to 15ml volume with distilled water. The LDL for copper using this technique was 2ppm. Where copper was over-range (>1% Cu), it was analysed by a second analytical technique (AAS22S), which has a higher upper detection limit (UDL) of 5% copper. Gold analysis method was essentially unchanged.

Trenching samples from 2001 to 2007 were analysed for 6 elements (Cu, Ag, Pb, Zn, As and Mo) by SGS Mongolia using a three-acid-digestion of a 0.3g sub-sample followed by an AAS finish (AAS21R). Samples were digested with nitric, hydrochloric and perchloric acids to dryness before leaching with hydrochloric acid to dissolve soluble salts and made to 15ml volume with distilled water. The LDL for copper using this technique was 2ppm. Where copper was over-range (>1% Cu), it was analysed by a second analytical technique (AAS22S), which has a higher upper detection limit (UDL) of 5% copper. Gold analysis method was essentially unchanged. Verification of sampling and assaying All assay data QA/QC is checked prior to loading into Xanadus Geobank data base.

The data is managed by Xanadu geologists.

The data base and geological interpretation is managed by Xanadu.

Check assays are submitted to an umpire lab (SGS Mongolia) for duplicate analysis.

No twinned drill holes exist.

There have been no adjustments to any of the assay data. Location of data points Diamond drill holes have been surveyed with a differential global positioning system ( DGPS ) to within 10cm accuracy.

The grid system used for the project is UTM WGS-84 Zone 49N

Historically, Eastman Kodak and Flexit electronic multi-shot downhole survey tools have been used at Red Mountain to collect down hole azimuth and inclination information for the majority of the diamond drill holes. Single shots were typically taken every 30m to 50m during the drilling process, and a multi-shot survey with readings every 3-5m are conducted at the completion of the drill hole. As these tools rely on the earths magnetic field to measure azimuth, there is some localised interference/inaccuracy introduced by the presence of magnetite in some parts of the Red Mountain mineral system. The extent of this interference cannot be quantified on a reading-by-reading basis.

More recently (since September 2017), a north-seeking gyro has been employed by the drilling crews on site (rented and operated by the drilling contractor), providing accurate downhole orientation measurements unaffected by magnetic effects. Xanadu have a permanent calibration station setup for the gyro tool, which is routinely calibrated every 2 weeks (calibration records are maintained and were sighted).

The project DTM is based on 1 m contours from satellite imagery with an accuracy of 0.1 m.

Trenching locations for trenches between 2001 and 2007 were located using a handheld GPS. Data spacing and distribution Holes spacings range from <50m spacings within the core of mineralisation to +500m spacings for exploration drilling. Hole spacings can be determined using the sections and drill plans provided.

Holes range from vertical to an inclination of -60 degrees depending on the attitude of the target and the drilling method.

The data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish anomalism and targeting for porphyry Cu-Au, tourmaline breccia and epithermal target types.

Holes have been drilled to a maximum of 1,300m vertical depth.

The data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish geological and grade continuity. Orientation of data in relation to geological structure Drilling is conducted in a predominantly regular grid to allow unbiased interpretation and targeting.

Scissor drilling, as well as some vertical and oblique drilling, has been used in key mineralised zones to achieve unbiased sampling of interpreted structures and mineralised zones, and in particular to assist in constraining the geometry of the mineralised hydrothermal tourmaline-sulphide breccia domains. Sample security Samples are delivered from the drill rig to the core shed twice daily and are never left unattended at the rig.

Samples are dispatched from site in locked boxes transported on Xanadu company vehicles to ALS lab in Ulaanbaatar.

Sample shipment receipt is signed off at the Laboratory with additional email confirmation of receipt.

Samples are then stored at the lab and returned to a locked storage site. Audits or reviews Internal audits of sampling techniques and data management are undertaken on a regular basis, to ensure industry best practice is employed at all times.

External reviews and audits have been conducted by the following groups: 2012: AMC Consultants Pty Ltd. was engaged to conduct an Independent Technical Report which reviewed drilling and sampling procedures. It was concluded that sampling and data record was to an appropriate standard. 2013: Mining Associates Ltd. was engaged to conduct an Independent Technical Report to review drilling, sampling techniques and QA/QC. Methods were found to conform to international best practice.





1.2 JORC TABLE 1 - SECTION 2 - REPORTING OF EXPLORATION RESULTS

(Criteria in this section apply to all succeeding sections).

Criteria Commentary Mineral

tenement

and land

tenure

status The Project comprises 1 Mining Licence (MV-17129A).

Xanadu now owns 90% of Vantage LLC, the 100% owner of the Oyut Ulaan mining licence.

The Mongolian Minerals Law (2006) and Mongolian Land Law (2002) govern exploration, mining and land use rights for the project. Exploration

done by

other parties Previous exploration was conducted by Quincunx Ltd, Ivanhoe Mines Ltd and Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd including extensive drilling, surface geochemistry, geophysics, mapping. Geology



The mineralisation is characterised as porphyry copper-gold type.

Porphyry copper-gold deposits are formed from magmatic hydrothermal fluids typically associated with felsic intrusive stocks that have deposited metals as sulphides both within the intrusive and the intruded host rocks. Quartz stockwork veining is typically associated with sulphides occurring both within the quartz veinlets and disseminated thought out the wall rock. Porphyry deposits are typically large tonnage deposits ranging from low to high grade and are generally mined by large scale open pit or underground bulk mining methods. The deposits at Red Mountain are atypical in that they are associated with intermediate intrusions of diorite to quartz diorite composition; however, the deposits are in terms of contained gold significant, and similar gold-rich porphyry deposits. Drill hole

Information Diamond drill holes are the principal source of geological and grade data for the Project.

See figures in this ASX/TSX Announcement. Data

Aggregation methods A nominal cut-off of 0.1% CuEq is used in copper dominant systems for identification of potentially significant intercepts for reporting purposes. Higher grade cut-offs are 0.3%, 0.6% and 1% CuEq.

A nominal cut-off of 0.1g/t AuEq is used in gold dominant systems like for identification of potentially significant intercepts for reporting purposes. Higher grade cut-offs are 0.3g/t, 0.6g/t and 1g/t AuEq.

Maximum contiguous dilution within each intercept is 9m for 0.1%, 0.3%, 0.6% and 1% CuEq.

Most of the reported intercepts are shown in sufficient detail, including maxima and subintervals, to allow the reader to make an assessment of the balance of high and low grades in the intercept.

Informing samples have been composited to two metre lengths honouring the geological domains and adjusted where necessary to ensure that no residual sample lengths have been excluded (best fit).

The copper equivalent ( CuEq ) calculation represents the total metal value for each metal, multiplied by the conversion factor, summed and expressed in equivalent copper percentage with a metallurgical recovery factor applied.

Copper equivalent (CuEq or eCu) grade values were calculated using the following formula: CuEq = Cu + Au * 0.62097 * 0.8235,

Gold Equivalent (AuEq or eAu) grade values were calculated using the following formula: AuEq = Au + Cu / 0.62097 * 0.8235

Where: Cu = copper grade (%); Au = gold grade (g/t); 0.62097 = conversion factor (gold to copper); 0.8235 = relative recovery of gold to copper (82.35%)

The copper equivalent formula was based on the following parameters (prices are in USD): Copper price = 3.1 $/lb (or 6834 $/t) Gold price = 1320 $/oz Copper recovery = 85% Gold recovery = 70% Relative recovery of gold to copper = 70% / 85% = 82.35%.

Relationship between mineralisation

on widths

and intercept

lengths Mineralised structures are variable in orientation, and therefore drill orientations have been adjusted from place to place in order to allow intersection angles as close as possible to true widths.

Exploration results have been reported as an interval with 'from' and 'to' stated in tables of significant economic intercepts. Tables clearly indicate that true widths will generally be narrower than those reported. Diagrams See figures in this ASX/TSX Announcement. Balanced

Reporting Exploration results have been reported at a range of cut-off grades, above a minimum suitable for open pit mining, and above a minimum suitable for underground mining. Other

substantive

exploration

data Extensive work in this area has been done and is reported separately. Further

Work The mineralisation is open at depth and along strike.

Current estimates are restricted to those expected to be reasonable for open pit mining. Limited drilling below this depth (-300m RL) shows widths and grades potentially suitable for underground extraction.

Exploration ongoing.

1.3 JORC TABLE 1 - SECTION 3 ESTIMATION AND REPORTING OF MINERAL RESOURCES



Mineral Resources are not reported so this is not applicable to this report.

1.4 JORC TABLE 1 - SECTION 4 ESTIMATION AND REPORTING OF ORE RESERVES

Ore Reserves are not reported so this is not applicable to this report.

1 ASX Announcement  Oyut Ulaan Exploration Update, 28th June 2017, ASX Announcement  XAM Quarterly Report Q2 2017 Final

2 ASX Announcement  Oyut Ulaan Exploration Update, 28th June 2017, ASX Announcement  XAM Quarterly Report Q2 2017 Final

3 ASX Announcement  Oyut Ulaan Exploration Update  High Grade Massive Sulphide Mineralisation Intersected, 19 July 2017

4 ASX Announcement  Oyut Ulaan Exploration Update  High Grade Massive Sulphide Mineralisation Intersected, 19 July 2017

5 XAM Quarterly Activities Report, Quarter Ending 31 December 2016 and XAM Quarterly Activities Report, Quarter Ending 31 March 2017

6 XAM Quarterly Activities Report, Quarter Ending 31 December 2016 and XAM Quarterly Activities Report, Quarter Ending 31 March 2017

7 ASX/TSX Announcement 27 September 2022  Broad, shallow gold zone at Red Mountain

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ab346f65-20aa-4c77-a3a2-c675bed03215



https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a00507a3-2ea1-4e35-8824-10d7224137ea

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ac18cc1e-0f5c-4ecc-b5ce-08d2b2a3846a



https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/918d6130-0a43-4c4a-acbd-450f982947d6



https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7a3262d9-fd1d-4ccf-8699-355a23bead0e



https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6c230dd0-e983-4ca5-a0fe-e9e47ebda5a6




BROCKTON  On a clear day, Brockton's newest apartment building boasts Boston skyline views.

Tuesday was cloudy. But a tour of downtown's tallest building did offer a glimpse of the transit-oriented future that city leaders have been working to make real.

"Today is an historic day in the city of Brockton," Mayor Robert F. Sullivan told a crowd of about 70 developers, bankers, construction bosses, politicians and media at the ribbon cutting for 93 Centre St. "When you think about Brockton, you don't necessarily think about jumping on a train and getting into South Station in 35 minutes or jumping in a car and getting to Providence, Rhode Island in about the same time."

The 8-story edifice known to many Brocktonians as the old Furniture Building is now The Anglim, a 55-unit apartment building.

Defines luxury living Brockton home on Eisenhower Drive sold for $750K

How much is rent at The Anglim?

Once home to the United Shoe Company, the 118-year-old building had fallen into disrepair. In 2015, developer Ted Carman began a nearly 9-year battle to redevelop the property. The long gestation spanned three mayors, an imminent domain taking by the city, two years in court with the former owner and white-knuckle worries over financing.

"For some of us who have been in this city for a long time, we remember what the building looked like," said the second of those mayors, City Councilor Moises Rodrigues. "And I'm not going to call it a dump. But it was a dump."

It's not a dump anymore. The 55 apartments include studios, 1-bedrooms and 2-bedrooms. Rents start at $1,800 per month (studios), $2,000 (1-bedrooms) and $2,500 (2-bedrooms), said leasing agent Vahid Mashmasarmi. He said 28 leases have been signed. By April 1, the building will be 50% occupied, he said. Eleven of the units are so-called "affordable units," aimed at households making 80% or less of the area median income. For a family of three, that's $85,150 according to the most recent federal figures for the Brockton area.

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Why Brockton seized building Brockton pries building from furniture business owner

Metro South Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Chris Cooney, left, and Brockton City Council President Moises Rodrigues inspect the basement gym in the renovated "Furniture Building" 93 Centre St. in Brockton on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

Panoramic views

On Tuesday, The Anglim offered tours of three 7th-floor apartments. A corner unit offered a kitchen with panoramic views through windows that are nearly floor-to-ceiling. The apartments are new construction nestled in the building's old but solid bones. There's a gym in the basement, bicycle storage, a system for secure pick-up of packages and, soon, a co-working space.

Adirio Almeida and Juceila Cardoso came to the ribbon-cutting, curious to see if it might be their next home. They and their three children live next door in the Station Lofts. Almeida, who covers Cape Verdean life in a Brockton Community Access show, liked what he saw. But since the building's largest units are only two-bedroom, they'll be staying put for now. Cardoso said the building, like many in Brockton, also lacked an outdoor play area for children.

What's a money bouquet? Brockton woman turns side hustle into dream job

Juceila Cardoso and her 1-year-old son Sony Almeida take in the view out the window of a 7th floor apartment in the "Furniture Building" at 93 Centre St. during a tour of the refurbished building in downtown Brockton on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

History of project includes battle with previous owner

"It has been a difficult process, but the building is in great shape and we're very proud of it," said Carman, who is president of Concord Square Planning & Development Inc.

Sullivan, in remarks before the ribbon-cutting, said Carman's company showed foresight.

"Many years ago they saw Brockton as an opportunity where many people didn't," the third-term mayor said.

The project survived multiple hurdles including an owner who would not leave and financing fall-throughs.

'I want to do 10, 20, 30, 50 stories' Building a bit taller just got easier in Brockton. Here's why.

The renovated 93 Centre St. building is eight stories.

"To take something like this on, in the early days when we first started to think about it, there has to be an enormous amount of trust because there are so many problems that have to be solved," said Carman, pointing to a spot where he sat at a table with the then-owner in August 2015.

"The difficulty has been very substantial," Carman said. "It really is wonderful to work in a city where [there's] so much commitment to making the city a better place."

Ward 5 City Councilor Jeff Thompson said he has toured the building many times over the years. In brief remarks, he complimented the result.

"I always saw the potential in this building and then as I recently toured this building, Ted, you have by far exceeded my expectations," Thompson said. "This is a gorgeous building."

Nelson Fernandes of the Downtown Brockton Association, ZBA Chair Kenneth Galligan, Commissioner of Buildings James Plouffe and City Councilor David C. Teixeira discuss the renovations of the "Furniture Building" at 93 Centre St. and the apartments that were officially open to the public on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

Will this be downtown's turning point?

Residents may remain skeptical of the strategy of attracting Boston commuters, but several officials said The Anglim represents the kind of success that shows other developers that Brockton is worth the investment.

"The price point is real. You can come here and get some really great value," Sullivan said. "With the housing will come the other amenities. If you build it, they will come."

City Councilor Jack Lally of Ward 7 noted that residents can look down directly on the Commuter Rail platform and see if they've missed their train already. "It's a beautiful building. It's been beautifully done," he said while touring one of the units on the seventh floor. "We are just really happy to see this kind of thing get built. It is a sign that this can work, that this can be done."

Wondering about a vacant building, construction site or other sign of change in or near Brockton? Im veteran local reporter Chris Helms and Ill help you find out. Email your questions and tips to CHelms@enterprisenews.com or connect on X at @HelmsNews.

This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: Brockton's Furniture Building transformed into 'gorgeous' apartments
Dynatron Software

RICHARDSON, Texas, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dynatron Software and NCM Associates are excited to announce a new strategic partnership combining Dynatrons data business intelligence with NCMs 20 Group expertise to deliver a brand new product, Fixed Operations Virtual Performance Groups (FOVPG). FOVPG combines Dynatron's industry leadership of maximizing clients customer pay and warranty effective labor rates, along with NCM's leadership in 20 Group moderation to drive service and parts department profitability. FOVPG is designed for current Dynatron customers, enabling them to meet virtually throughout the year every other month.



"We are excited to embark on this strategic partnership with NCM Associates, combining our expertise in data business intelligence with NCM's proven moderating capabilities. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our mission to enhance service and parts profitability for thousands of Dynatron and NCM customers alike. - Leigh Silver, CEO | Dynatron Software

The power of data plus peer collaboration can be the difference in an average manager becoming a great manager. Dynatron partnered with NCM to bring it all together through the Fixed Operations Virtual Performance Groups (FOVPG). General Managers and Service Managers will have an opportunity to come together as peers sharing challenges and solutions. - Steve Hall, Vice President, United States | NCM Associates, Inc.

About Dynatron Software

Dynatron Software makes running Fixed Operations easier and more profitable. Their foundational solution, PriceSmart, digests complex DMS data making it easily actionable for optimizing price, maximizing ELR, and improving profitability. PriceSmart focuses on Fixed Ops labor and parts price optimization, pricing compliance, and price erosion to help increase CP ELR. Dynatrons solutions are powered by an advanced analytics platform, ROI Suite (Repair Order Insights), that identifies the hidden revenue opportunities.

Story continues

About NCM Associates

With over 75 years of experience, NCM Associates, and its staff of experienced professionals are proud to serve thousands of dealers, dealer groups, and OEMs in Canada, the United States, and Asia Pacific. NCM prides itself on being the largest and most trusted automotive business intelligence provider offering their clients knowledge and data to make informed decisions for their dealership operations. They continue to provide innovative business management systems, management and leadership training, 20 Groups, consulting programs, and other automotive-related resources to meet the needs of their clients in today's automotive industry.

SOURCE Dynatron Software

CONTACT: For more information or for press inquiries, please reach out to Dynatron Software at learmore@dynatronsoftware.com.




GRASS VALLEY, CA - (NewMediaWire) - March 27, 2024 - Today BrewBilt Manufacturing Inc. (the "Company") (OTCPINK: BBRW) announces that the company has created several strategic partnerships to expand production into various beverage, agriculture and construction industries to diversify its revenue model and strengthen shareholder value.





Jef Lewis, Chief Executive Officer, stated, "I will address our new future and our plan to strengthen our stock value. I am pleased to announce an exciting evolution in BrewBilt Manufacturing's journey. Over the years, we have established ourselves as a trusted name in the fabrication of proprietary stainless steel craft brewery tanks and brewhouses. Today, we are proud to unveil our official expansion into new realms of manufacturing services, signaling a strategic shift towards broader horizons and diversified revenue streams. This increases our market potential from $30B to $120B, which should be reflective in our earnings.

"In response to shifting market dynamics and economic challenges impacting the craft brewery sector, we have made the strategic decision to broaden our offerings to encompass all beverage production, agricultural production, and commercial construction. This expansion is driven by our commitment to remaining competitive and fostering sustained growth in the face of evolving market conditions.

"The craft brewery market has faced its share of challenges, with thousands of small microbreweries closing their doors due to economic pressures. While BrewBilt Manufacturing has secured $1.3 million in new orders, we recognize that the refurbishment of existing equipment presents a significant bottleneck in the global sales of brewery equipment. Moreover, factors such as substantial capital investments, maintenance costs, and rising energy expenses continue to pose challenges to the brewery equipment industry.

"To navigate these challenges and seize new opportunities, we have undertaken a comprehensive revitalization effort, encompassing the renovation of our website, enhanced marketing and advertising initiatives, and the strategic recruitment of sales specialists across our expanded industries. By broadening our focus to include beverage production, agricultural production, and commercial construction, we are poised to capitalize on diverse market segments and drive sustainable revenue growth.

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"Situated in one of the world's largest agricultural regions, BrewBilt Manufacturing is strategically positioned to leverage the vast opportunities presented by California's thriving agricultural sector. In 2022, the market value of agricultural products sold in California reached an impressive $59.0 billion, underscoring the immense potential for growth and collaboration in this vibrant industry.

"While we remain optimistic about the future prospects of the craft brewery market, we are also mindful of the need to adapt and diversify our offerings to stay ahead of the curve. According to the brewery equipment market analysis report by Future Market Insights, global sales of brewery equipment experienced a year-on-year growth of 4.8% up to 2022, reaching a total of US$ 18.5 billion annually. Looking ahead, the global brewery equipment market is projected to witness a surge at a rate of 5.2% in the forecast period, surpassing US$ 30.7 billion in revenue by 2032.

"Our revenue models, now encompassing brewery, beverage, agricultural, and commercial construction markets, are meticulously crafted to support our long-term growth objectives. By leveraging our core strengths and seizing emerging opportunities, we are confident in our ability to drive sustained profitability while enhancing shareholder value.

"We deeply appreciate the unwavering support and confidence of our shareholders as we embark on this new chapter of growth and innovation. Together, we have laid a solid foundation for success, and I am genuinely excited about the boundless opportunities that lie ahead.

"Thank you for your continued partnership and belief in BrewBilt Manufacturing's vision for excellence and advancement."

ABOUT BREWBILT MANUFACTURING INC.: brewbilt.com Crafting precision stainless steel tanks for a spectrum of industries, BrewBilt Manufacturing delivers tailored solutions for beer brewing, wine making, food processing, chemical processing, life sciences, agricultural applications, solar steel platforms, and various building applications for outdoor kitchens, cabinets, gates, awnings and railings. From enhancing fermentation processes to ensuring product integrity, our state-of-the-art vessels optimize efficiency and elevate quality across diverse manufacturing needs.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations or forecasts of future events and are not guarantees of future performance, nor should they be relied upon as representing management's views as of any subsequent date. The forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially include, without limitation, the Company's ability to effectively execute its business plans; unforeseen construction delays; the Company's need for additional capital; changes in general economic and financial market conditions; changes in the competitive environment; litigation; losses, customer bankruptcy, claims and assessments; and regulatory or legislative requirements affecting the Company's business. Management may elect to update forward-looking statements at some future point; however, it specifically disclaims any obligation to do so.

Contact:

Jef Lewis, Chairman and CEO

BrewBilt Manufacturing Inc. BBRW

(530) 206-0039

Info@BrewBilt.com

Source: BrewBilt Manufacturing Inc.
The logo of French Insurer Axa is seen outside a building in Paris

The logo of French Insurer Axa is seen outside a building in Paris

(Reuters) - A major bridge collapsed on Tuesday in the U.S. port of Baltimore after being struck by a container ship, plunging cars into the river below.

Here is what carmakers and other companies that use the port, have said about the impact on their operations:

ASR GROUP

The largest sugar company in the U.S. said it has six to eight weeks of raw sugar stocks at its Baltimore refinery, which is supplied by vessels coming to the port. It said it does not expect short-term impacts.

AXA

The French insurer said in a statement it "does not expect losses" from the Baltimore bridge collapse to be "material at a group level".

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY ENERGY

The operator of Cove Point liquefied natural gas terminal said its operations were not impacted.

BMW

The German automaker said it does not expect any immediate impact other than short-term traffic delays.

The port's automotive terminal is located at the harbor entrance, in front of the bridge, and can still be accessed.

BRITANNIA

The Britannia Steam Ship Insurance Association, which insures the Dali container ship, said it is working with the vessel's owner and U.S. authorities on the investigation into the collapse of the bridge.

CARNIVAL CORP

The British-American cruise operator said its 2024 revenue guidance does not include an estimated impact of up to $10 million linked to the collapse.

COLONIAL PIPELINE COMPANY

The largest pipeline system for refined oil products in the U.S. paused nominations to ship fuel on cycles 15 and 16 on Line 32, which delivers products to its Curtis Bay facility in the port, according to a notice seen by Reuters.

CONSOL ENERGY

The coal producer said vessel access in and out of the Consol marine terminal, which is located in the port of Baltimore, has been delayed.

CSX

The rail company said its existing coal customers should expect "potential shipment delays".

CSX owns the Curtis Bay coal pier in Baltimore, near the bridge, which it plans to keep operational for now as it continues to "assess the circumstances," the company said.

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FITCH RATINGS

Fitch said it expects minimal impact on operations or production of North American auto manufacturers or suppliers.

FORD

CFO John Lawler said the automaker will have to divert parts to other ports, affecting its supply chain.

"Where workarounds are necessary in the short term, our team has already secured shipping alternatives," the firm said.

GENERAL MOTORS

The U.S. carmaker said it will reroute vehicle shipments to other ports. It expected impact to be minimal.

HOME DEPOT

Home Depot said its distribution centers in the Baltimore area were "open and operating".

JAGUAR LAND ROVER

The private car company said it does not comment on confidential retailer communications and is monitoring the situation.

LONDON METAL EXCHANGE

LME said warehouses registered with the exchange in Baltimore had not been affected.

LLOYD'S OF LONDON

Bruce Carnegie-Brown, chairperson of Lloyd's, said the collapse was likely to lead to a multi-billion dollar insurance loss and could become the largest single marine insurance loss.

MERCEDES BENZ

The German carmaker, which uses Baltimore's port for imports and owns a plant in Tuscaloosa, said it sees no impact on its vehicle exports, and had reviewed and adjusted supply routes.

MOODY'S

Moody's said if the port remains closed, re-routing shipments to other east coast spots will erode its competitive advantage.

MORNINGSTAR DBRS

Morningstar DBRS said insured losses could total $2-4 billion, surpassing the record loss of the Costa Concordia.

NORFOLK SOUTHERN

CEO Alan Shaw said the company is working with customers to provide logistics workarounds.

RAMACO

The company said it is unaffected by the collapse.

STELLANTIS

The French-Italian carmaker said it was discussing "contingency plans to ensure an uninterrupted flow of vehicles", according to a New York Times article.

VOLKSWAGEN

The German carmaker said its vessel operations in Baltimore were unaffected, but there could be trucking delays.

VOLVO GROUP

The Swedish company, which makes trucks, construction equipment and engines, said it currently expected no major impact, but was looking over its U.S. inventory to see if there could be a disturbance in worst-case scenarios.

(Compiled by Anna Pruchnicka, Stephanie Hamel and Nathan Vifflin in Gdansk; Editing by Keith Weir and Josie Kao, Kirsten Donovan)
Leading Peruvian pharmacy chain improves assortment, space planning and analytic capabilities with Blue Yonder solutions

LIMA, Peru & SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., March 27, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As supply chain disruptions continue, pharmacy retailers must find ways to optimize their stores so consumers can find the critical medication and supplies they need. Thats why Farmacias Peruanas, Perus largest pharmacy retail chain, digitally transformed its supply chain with Blue Yonder Category Management solutions to improve its customer experience by reducing stockouts and enhancing store layouts and space. The project was successfully implemented by GOLDCO, a Blue Yonder partner.

Farmacias Peruanas, part of the Intercorp Group, is the largest pharmacy retailer in Peru, formed by the union of two brands: Inkafarma and Mifarma. The pharmacy retailer has more than 20,000 employees who work in more than 2,000 locations across Peru. The companys motto is: "To protect the health and well-being of all Peruvian families."

The company wanted to automate and improve its category management capabilities from manual processes, so it turned to the industry leader in category management, Blue Yonder, and a leading implementation partner with extensive experience in retail strategy, GOLDCO.

Thanks to Blue Yonder and GOLDCO, Farmacias Peruanas has been able to:

Gain better control over the master planogram to allow staff to implement changes quickly and increase its analytic timeline for each category.

Improve the customer shopping experience by allocating space strategically, driven by data and analytics, as well as inventory requirements.

Optimize layouts across stores, increasing space productivity and reducing out-of-stocks  all to increase customer satisfaction and drive higher sales.

"We were looking for the latest category management technology to efficiently communicate information and strategy across the organization. Thanks to the Blue Yonder solution and its capabilities, we have been able to integrate it into our strategic, tactical, and operational processes, greatly improving customer service. And thanks to their partner GOLDCO, the implementation was a success and we are already seeing the benefits," said Lili Rios, Category Management and New Formats development manager, Farmacias Peruanas.

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Blue Yonder Category Management solutions have allowed Farmacias Peruanas to deliver consistent store layouts, optimize space to meet peak demand and avoid stockouts, and prioritize space for profitable categories. By leveraging SaaS, Farmacias Peruanas will have unmatched scalability and reliability, as well as the ability to take advantage of new solution innovations as soon as theyre available.

"In collaboration with Blue Yonder, we automated category management operations at Farmacias Peruanas, optimizing store layouts and enhancing the shopping experience with data-driven insights. We look forward to continuing to develop this partnership into new levels," said Jorge Mosqueda, director, Category Management Solutions, GOLDCO.

"Farmacias Peruanas was looking for a category management strategy that could pivot as customer preference and demand changed. With Blue Yonder Category Management solutions, they can build and maintain store-specific planograms as needed to drive more efficiency for their planners and staff to better meet these changing needs. We are excited to be part of their transformation journey," said Albert Jung, senior director, Retail - LATAM, Blue Yonder.

Additional Resources:

About Farmacias Peruanas

Farmacias Peruanas is the largest retailer specialized in pharmacies in Peru. The company manages the two top-of-mind brands in the industry: Inkafarma and Mifarma. It is part of the Intercorp group. The company has more than 20,000 employees who work in more than 2,000 points of sale on the coast, mountains, and Peruvian jungle. Their main goal and reason to exist is: "To protect the health and well-being of all Peruvian families."

About GOLDCO

We are the consulting firm specializing in assisting in the definition of the appropriate strategic route for our clients, helping to manage it through value practices, supporting its implementation, accompanying the end-to-end process. We have worked with retail companies throughout Latin America in CATMAN implementation projects that led them to achieve their revenue goals and maximize the capabilities of Blue Yonder Category Management Solutions.

About Blue Yonder

Blue Yonder is the world leader in digital supply chain transformation. Global retailers, manufacturers and logistics providers leverage Blue Yonder to optimize their supply chains from planning through fulfillment, delivery and returns. Blue Yonders AI-embedded, interoperable supply chain solutions are connected end-to-end via a unified platform and data cloud, enabling business to collaborate in real time across functions, which supports more agile decision-making, improved customer satisfaction, profitable growth, and more resilient, sustainable supply chains. Blue Yonder - Fulfill your Potential www.blueyonder.com

"Blue Yonder" is a trademark or registered trademark of Blue Yonder Group, Inc. Any trade, product or service name referenced in this document using the name "Blue Yonder" is a trademark and/or property of Blue Yonder Group, Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks, registered trademarks or service marks of the companies with which they are associated.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240327483804/en/

Contacts

Blue Yonder Public Relations Contacts:

Marina Renneke, APR, Global Corporate Communications Sr. Director

Tel: +1 480-308-3037, marina.renneke@blueyonder.com



Rossella Benti, EMEA Corporate Communications Director

Tel: +39 335 7849149, rossella.benti@blueyonder.com
By Waylon Cunningham

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (Reuters) - Runaway prices at U.S. fast-food joints and restaurants have made people skittish down the income ladder and executives at chains including McDonald's and Wendys recently said they worry about losing business from those on the tightest budgets.

Roughly a quarter of low-income consumers, defined as those making less than $50,000 a year, said they were eating less fast food and about half said they were making fewer trips to fast-casual and full-service dining establishments, according to polling in February by Revenue Management Solutions, a consulting firm.

The rising price of food is contributing to budget-conscious diners cutting back.

Whether consumed at home or in a restaurant, food prices rose 20% from Jan. 2021 to Jan. 2024, the fastest jump on record. A recent census Household Pulse Survey showed half of people earning less than $35,000 a year had difficulty paying everyday expenses, and nearly 80% were moderately or very stressed by recent price increases.

Lauren Oxford, a musician who works part time at a bed-and-breakfast in Tennessee, said she used to stop by McDonald's after running errands, treating herself to two double hamburgers, fries and a drink, for less than $5. As prices rose, she switched to smaller hamburgers and stopped getting the drink.

But after a year in which McDonald's franchisees drove prices up about 10% according to the company's executives, shes going to McDonald's less in general. Now I dont know if I can justify that.

In the Feds most recent Beige Book compendium of anecdotal reports gathered from business and community contacts around the country, 7 of 12 regional Fed districts reported low-income consumers were changing spending habits in search of bargains, seeking more help from community groups, or struggling to access credit.

About one-third of Black American households, and 21% of white American households, earned less than $35,000 in 2022, according to the latest available U.S. census data.

Story continues

For fast-food companies that often promote an image of affordability, low-income consumers are a significant portion of the customer base and a bellwether for longer-term trends. But they are typically the first to cut back spending and the last to come back.

But now, chains may be less likely to chase customers as hard as they have in the past because even with a drop in traffic, sales have remained consistent supported by increased prices.

Fast food companies aren't "in a hurry to take traffic over profit the way they were a decade ago, said Mike Lukianoff, CEO of SignalFlare.ai and a veteran consultant in the fast food industry.

For example back in 2008, Subway introduced its nationwide $5 footlong, which became the poster sandwich for the Great Recession. That spurred rivals to introduce extreme value deals for budget-conscious customers, such as $5 Fill-Up Boxes" at Yum! Brands KFC.

In 2016, McDonalds, after a prolonged slump in sales, introduced a bundle deal it called McPick 2, allowing customers to choose 2 items, like a McDouble, for $2. Within months, Wendys offered a four for $4 deal. Burger King offered five for $4. Pizza Hut had a $5 flavor menu.

APP-DRIVEN DISCOUNTS

Now, instead of across-the-board menu slashes and broad discounts, industry analysts say chains are being more selective, aiming them at specific demographics or limiting them to specific meal times or channels, such as its app or only through delivery.

McDonald's executives told investors in February that it would rely on its existing "value menu" to appeal to low-income consumers who might be tempted to eat packaged food at home instead. CFO Ian Borden said affordability is core to the brand, and the company would continue "evolving" its value offerings.

The battleground is certainly with that low-income consumer, McDonalds CEO Chris Kempczinski told investors, referring to people making less than $45,000.

Wendys recently introduced a limited-time $1 burger  available only through its app. Its CFO Gunther Plosch told investors in February that among lower-income customers, their traffic is down but their share with the general market is unchanged.

For major fast-food companies, loyalty apps are the go-to strategy among major brands to increase retention and the average amount of money spent. The upside for chains, David Henkes, senior principal with Technomic said, is that they capture more transaction data and demographic data for the consumer, which is a trade-off many are happy to do.

For example, McDonald's frequently offers in-app discounts, such as 20% off an order or free delivery with a large enough order.

Dominos halved the minimum purchase price to get points in its loyalty program, to $5 from $10, its CEO told investors at a conference in January. It also reduced the number of purchases needed to get a free pizza to as few as two from six. And so essentially, for this lower-income consumer, weve made the brand more accessible, CEO Russell Weiner said.

To be sure, not every chain is seeing weakness among low-income customers. At Taco Bell, which sells a single taco for $1.40 at many of its stores in San Antonio, locations in low-income markets did better than other locations, Yum! CEO David Gibbs told investors in February.

McDonald's still holds its appeal for Andreas Garay, a retail worker eating at a McDonald's in westside San Antonio. He said he plans to keep his coffee-and-Big-Mac habit-- even if prices continue going up.

(Reporting by Waylon Cunningham in San Antonio and Howard Schneider in Washington, D.C.; Editing by Anna Driver)
An earlier version of this story attributed the combined number of eliminated positions to a single company. The story has been updated to reflect some of the anticipated cuts at individual employers.

Fast food workers are losing their jobs in California as more restaurant chains prepare to meet a new $20 minimum wage set to go into effect next week.

Restaurants making cuts are mostly pizzerias, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal. Multiple businesses have plans to axe hundreds of jobs, as well as cut back hours and freeze hiring, the report shows.

Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the Fast Act back in September to require fast food chains with 60 or more locations nationwide to meet that wage increase after labor unions fought for it alongside the healthcare industry, which will also see a boost to earnings in June.

"This is a big deal," Newsom said alongside union members in September. "That's 80% of the workforce."

Layoffs began last year

Pizza Hut is laying off more than 1,000 delivery drivers in California, according to federal and state filings. Fast-food workers in the state are set to get a pay bump in April 2023 as the minimum wages rises from $16 to $20 an hour.

Pizza Hut announced cuts to more than 1,200 delivery jobs in December, previous reporting by USA TODAY shows. Some Pizza Hut franchises in California also filed notices with the state saying they were discontinuing their delivery services entirely, according to Fox Business.

"Where select California franchisees have elected to make changes to their staffing approach, access to delivery service will continue to be available via Pizza Huts mobile app, website and phone ordering and the customer ordering experience will remain consistent," a Pizza Hut spokesperson told USA TODAY Wednesday.

Excalibur Pizza, a franchisee of Round Table Pizza, has plans to cut 73 driver jobs in April, which amounts to 21% of its workforce, the company confirmed with USA TODAY Wednesday.

"The franchisee is transferring their delivery services to third-party. While it is unfortunate, we look at this as a transfer of jobs," a company rep told USA TODAY. "As you know, many California restaurant operators are following the same approach due to rising operating costs."

Story continues

No exemptions, Newsom says

The legislation indicated that businesses that feature ice cream, coffee, boba tea, pretzels, or donuts could meet the definition of a fast food restaurant covered by the law," according to The National Law Review's breakdown of the bill. The law could extend to similar businesses that provide things like sweets and drinks.

Greg Flynn, who has monopoly over Panera franchises in California, tried to get out of the state's new mandate earlier this year, according to Bloomberg, holding fast to a loophole that restaurants making in-house bread do not have to boost employee earnings.

Newsom's office called the claim "absurd," telling the Los Angeles Times that the restaurant chain would see no such exemption.

Chipotle's CFO told Yahoo Finance that the company will be forced to increase their prices to comply with the minimum wage increase.

A Starbucks spokesperson shared a statement with USA TODAY on Thursday saying the company will "continue to make improvements to their partners' experience and compensation.

Combined with benefits, Starbucks' current comprehensive compensation package for all U.S. hourly partners totals an average of $30 per hour.

We believe that success is best when it is shared and this extends to our partners at all levels in California," the spokesperson shared.

The coffee chain recently closed seven of its stores in the state of California, USA TODAY previously reported.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fast food workers losing jobs as California minimum wage jumps to $20
Quite a few insiders have dramatically grown their holdings in FirstRand Limited (JSE:FSR) over the past 12 months. An insider's optimism about the company's prospects is a positive sign.

While we would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether.

View our latest analysis for FirstRand

The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At FirstRand

Over the last year, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by Chief Executive Officer of RMB Emmarentia Brown for R157m worth of shares, at about R64.86 per share. That means that even when the share price was higher than R60.60 (the recent price), an insider wanted to purchase shares. Their view may have changed since then, but at least it shows they felt optimistic at the time. In our view, the price an insider pays for shares is very important. As a general rule, we feel more positive about a stock if insiders have bought shares at above current prices, because that suggests they viewed the stock as good value, even at a higher price.

Over the last year, we can see that insiders have bought 4.43m shares worth R287m. On the other hand they divested 1.16m shares, for R76m. In the last twelve months there was more buying than selling by FirstRand insiders. You can see the insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction!

There are always plenty of stocks that insiders are buying. So if that suits your style you could check each stock one by one or you could take a look at this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them).

FirstRand Insiders Bought Stock Recently

Over the last three months, we've seen significant insider buying at FirstRand. COO & Executive Director Mary Vilakazi spent R8.5m on stock, and there wasn't any selling. This could be interpreted as suggesting a positive outlook.

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Does FirstRand Boast High Insider Ownership?

Looking at the total insider shareholdings in a company can help to inform your view of whether they are well aligned with common shareholders. Usually, the higher the insider ownership, the more likely it is that insiders will be incentivised to build the company for the long term. Insiders own 0.3% of FirstRand shares, worth about R907m. We've certainly seen higher levels of insider ownership elsewhere, but these holdings are enough to suggest alignment between insiders and the other shareholders.

What Might The Insider Transactions At FirstRand Tell Us?

It's certainly positive to see the recent insider purchase. And an analysis of the transactions over the last year also gives us confidence. When combined with notable insider ownership, these factors suggest FirstRand insiders are well aligned, and quite possibly think the share price is too low. Nice! So while it's helpful to know what insiders are doing in terms of buying or selling, it's also helpful to know the risks that a particular company is facing. At Simply Wall St, we found 1 warning sign for FirstRand that deserve your attention before buying any shares.

If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt.

For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions of direct interests only, but not derivative transactions or indirect interests.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Biz2X

After Success at FDF Riyadh, FDF Event Series to Bring AI in Fintech Conference to Dubai for First Time

Frontiers of Digital Finance (FDF) conference, presented by Biz2X

Frontiers of Digital Finance (FDF) conference, presented by Biz2X, will be part of the will be an official event at the 2024 Dubai FinTech Summit on May 8, 2024.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Biz2X and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) today announced that Frontiers of Digital Finance (FDF) will be an official event at the 2024 Dubai FinTech Summit. FDF Dubai will feature key industry leaders from financial institutions, technology platforms, global consultancies, and government officials in an invite-only event on May 8, 2024.



Like previous sessions in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, FDF Dubai will bring together global business leaders to explore AI, large data models, and lending tech innovations currently shaping the financial landscape. In collaboration with DIFC Innovation Hub, the event will also spotlight Dubai's groundbreaking Vision D33 for transforming finance in the Emirates. Details on the venue and full agenda will be forthcoming at frontiersofdigitalfinance.com.

FDF Conference Series Puts Spotlight on AI in Finance in First-Ever Tour of MENA

Frontiers of Digital Finance is continuing its circuit of key Middle East financial centers. Biz2X and co-partner SIMAH (the Saudi Credit Bureau) recently hosted FDF Riyadh, focused on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabias (KSA) Vision 2030 for transforming the Saudi economy. The event was a milestone in the digital finance ecosystem within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA),

Supporting partners include DLA Piper, AWS, Mastercard, Qarar, and Oracle. Panel discussions included tech innovations, AI-led business strategy, capital markets, and digital transformation, shedding light on how these elements are driving financial accessibility, stability, and growth in alignment with KSA's ambitious Vision 2030 goals.

Highlights from the Riyadh edition are now available online.

Rohit Arora, Co-Founder and CEO of Biz2X, remarked: "FDF Riyadh was a platform dialogue and collaboration aiming to achieve Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives through digital finance. We are proud to be hosting these urgent and powerful conversations with the Frontiers of Digital Finance series."

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Husam Arabiat, CEO MENAT Region at Biz2X, extended an invitation for leaders to join the event in Dubai: Leaders who attend our FDF events are actively shaping the future of finance through their participation in this important global conversation. Dubai is a fantastic host city for that discussion. We are incredibly excited to bring together the brightest minds in finance during Dubai FinTech Summit with our partners, including DIFC Innovation Hub.

Frontiers of Digital Finance continues to be a must-attend "invite only" event, fostering collaboration, innovation, and thought leadership in the global digital finance community. Sponsorship opportunities at FDF Dubai are now available by inquiring on the website.

About Biz2X & Frontiers of Digital Finance:

Biz2X is a pioneering digital lending platform which helps financial institutions offer business financing through advanced proprietary technology.

The Frontiers of Digital Finance event series is a must-attend event for innovators in the financial sector, bringing together executives to discuss trends shaping the future of financial services and technology.

For media inquiries, please contact:

John Mooney

Over The Moon PR (for Biz2X)

908-720-6057

john@overthemoonpr.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/772a57c6-2205-4c17-9792-eb9b99ec96a3




Nature Conservancy of Canada

Good news for nature across Ontario!

TORONTO, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) applauds the Government of Ontario for renewing its commitment to conserve more lands and waters for people and nature over the next four years.

The conservation organization is responding to the announcement of $20 million over four years included in the provincial budget tabled today at Queens Park by Minister of Finance Peter Bethlanfalvy. This new funding will be delivered through the highly successful Greenlands Conservation Partnership program that was set to expire this year.

The Greenlands Conservation Partnership was launched in 2020. Since that time, the program has helped accelerate the pace of conservation throughout Ontario, protecting over 166,000 hectares of land and water over 75 key ecologically significant projects. This is an area equivalent to the size of the cities of Mississauga, Kingston, London, North Bay, Windsor and Peterborough combined.

With this renewed investment in a proven program, conservation partners, including NCC, can take urgently needed action to conserve, restore and manage even more forests, wetlands, shorelines and grassland areas for species at risk while providing access to healthy, natural spaces for people across the province.

The Greenlands Conservation Partnership program requires partners to raise matching funds from other sources, including donors, foundations and other levels of government to accelerate conservation and restoration across Ontario. For every $1 of provincial investment, these charities raise $1.50 in matching funds.

Dana Kleniewski, NCCs acting regional vice-president in Ontario, says todays budget is good news for nature and thanks the Government of Ontario, Minister Andrea Khanjin of Environment, Conservation and Parks, and Minister Bethlanfalvy for their continued confidence in land conservation partners.

The Greenlands Conservation Partnership delivers big wins for nature and community access and connection to nature across Ontario, says Kleniewski. Conserving natural spaces plays an important role in mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change by providing safe havens for wildlife, capturing and storing carbon, and improving resilience to weather events, such as flooding and drought. Collaboration is at the heart of conservation, and we need not only the participation of governments and conservation groups, but also of landowners, businesses, communities, foundations and individuals  there is a place for everyone. We are ready to continue working together to protect nature, so it can protect us.

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Facts

NCC projects completed with support of the Greenlands Conservation Partnership include: the securement of 7,000 hectares at the Vidal Bay Forest and Shoreline property on Manitoulin Island, creating a 14,000-hectare protected corridor from the south of the island to the north shore when combined with Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Mnidoo Mnissing Provincial Park; the expansion of the Alfred Bog Provincial Park near Ottawa, the largest bog of its kind in southern Ontario; two new nature reserves established in one of Ontarios most threatened landscapes in Essex County, southwestern Ontario; landscape-scale conservation in central Ontario through the acquisition of more than 5,700 hectares at the Hastings Wildlife Junction, south of Bancroft; and the completion of the largest private conservation project in Canadas history: the 145,000-hectare Boreal Wildlands, near Hearst.

Background on the Greenlands Conservation Partnership: In 2020, Ontario committed to a $20-million investment over four years to leverage private contributions to the Greenlands Conservation Partnership with the Nature Conservancy of Canada and the Ontario Land Trust Alliance. In 2022 and 2023, Ontario continued to build on the success of the Greenlands Conservation Partnership program with additional investments of $18 million, for a total investment of $38 million to date.



About

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is the countrys unifying force for nature. NCC seeks solutions to the twin crises of rapid biodiversity loss and climate change through large-scale, permanent land conservation. As a trusted partner, NCC works with people, communities, businesses and government to protect and care for our countrys most important natural areas and the species they sustain. Since 1962, NCC has brought Canadians together to conserve and restore more than 15 million hectares, including 252,000 hectares across Ontario.

The Greenlands Conservation Partnership helps conserve ecologically important natural areas and protect wetlands, grasslands and forests that help mitigate the effects of climate change. Through the Greenlands Conservation Partnership, a total of $38 million has been invested to date by the Ontario Government. Additional match funds are raised from other sources, such as individual donations and foundation support through NCC and the Ontario Land Trust Alliance, and other levels of government.

Find photos here.

Learn more

Visit: natureconservancy.ca

X: @NCC_CNC

Find us on Facebook

Media contact

Brianne Curry

Communications manager, Ontario region

Nature Conservancy of Canada

C: 519-520-1340

brianne.curry@natureconservancy.ca




FORT WORTH, Texas, March 27, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GENERAL MOTORS FINANCIAL COMPANY, INC. ("GM Financial" or the "Company") will release its first quarter 2024 operating results on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

The press release and earnings presentation for fixed income investors will be posted to the Investor Relations section of the Companys website at www.gmfinancial.com. Questions on the materials should be directed to GM Financials Investor Relations Department.

The companys subsequent earnings announcements are scheduled as follows:

Q2 2024  Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Q3 2024  Tuesday, October 22, 2024

About GM Financial

General Motors Financial Company, Inc. is the wholly owned captive finance subsidiary of General Motors Company and is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. For more information, visit www.gmfinancial.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326188141/en/

Contacts

Investor Relations contact:

Meagan Trampe

Vice President, Investor Relations

(817) 302-7385

Investors@gmfinancial.com
Practicing good password hygiene is probably the most important thing you can do to keep your money safe from hackers. - Getty Images/iStockphoto

Most Read from MarketWatch

Dear Fix My Portfolio,

My wife and I are in our mid-50s and are looking forward to a comfortable retirement. We have been diligent savers and self-managed investors. Now we want to better safeguard our $3 million nest egg.

We each have funds in our respective employer-sponsored 401(k)s. More than half of our total is at one large, well-respected investment firm. As we approach retirement, Id like to roll over our other 401(k)s to that firm to take advantage of lower fees.

But I fear that the all our eggs in one basket strategy might put us at risk. Specifically, I worry about cyber attacks. My concern goes beyond personal security like strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Would it be wise to spread our investments around to a few different firms?

With multiple firms, it seems to raise the risk that one or more of those firms could be attacked. However, it might lower the risk that we could lose it all. I am starting to sound a little paranoid, arent I? What would be the best thing to do?

Dan

Dear Dan,

With all thats been going on in the banking industry of late, youre not alone in worrying about the safety of your money. Most of the fears over the last two years have been about bank failures, and that involves cash covered by FDIC insurance, up to $250,000 per account type. What youre talking about  mostly investments and retirement accounts  concerns a different type of insurance, SIPC, which has higher limits, up to $500,000 per account.

About 40% of investors have a primary account and an additional account somewhere else, says Craig Martin, executive managing director at J.D. Power, which measures investor satisfaction with investing firms annually. That number goes up to 50% among those with more than $1 million.

Story continues

This data doesnt imply people are unhappy. Its just a different way of diversifying a portfolio, Martin says. People have a lot of reasons for having a secondary relationship. Some want to have secondary backups or options that are available at different firms, or they want to do investing on the side but have most of it in one place.

Your money is protected

One thing financial advisers point out is that your money is safe and insured at the institutional level. The industry is highly regulated, and companies invest a lot of money in security. Your own password hygiene and home security is probably most important. If something were to go wrong and you were the victim of a robbery, you could file a claim.

SIPC and FDIC insurance coverage should alleviate some concerns, says Byrke Sestok, a certified financial planner based in Harrison, N.Y.

We all learned a lot about the ins and outs of FDIC limits when Silicon Valley Bank failed in 2023. The $250,000 insurance limit applies to each account type and separate title. So if you have a savings account, a checking account and a CD titled jointly with your wife, youre covered up to a total of $750,000. SIPC insurance has similar coverage for investment accounts, so if you and your wife each have a rollover IRA account, and you have separate Roth accounts along with a joint brokerage account, you can cover your whole nest egg, even as it grows, without having to move money to more than one institution.

Autumn Knutson, a certified financial planner from Oklahoma, says her clients generally keep their money in one brokerage account simply for the sake of convenience. For security, we ensure clients know how to use two-factor authentication, maintain unique and complex passwords for each login through password-manager programs, and have security questions that would be difficult to answer correctly without having set them, she says.

Is more better?

If you still have concerns or you simply want to keep your money in more than one institution, thats entirely up to you. I polled a dozen financial planners and asked how their clients generally handled their accounts and what they recommended and, across the board, they advocated for consolidation.

True diversification comes from investing your assets in thousands of securities across multiple asset classes  best done in the form of mutual funds and exchange-traded funds  rather than from having your money at several different custodians, says Carla Adams, a certified financial planner from Orion, Mich.

When advisers do have clients who spread their money around, they rely on aggregation software to get a full view of a familys financial situation, and do the best they can with it.

With the families who have spread their assets across several firms, there is often duplication of holdings, missed tax-planning opportunities and general administrative hassle in trading, titling [and] beneficiaries and monitoring and management, says Lisa Kirchenbauer, a planner from Arlington, Va. Sometimes we just have to go with it and thank goodness for aggregating tools like eMoney so we can see the clients assets across custodians.

If youre doing your financial management on your own, youll have to approximate something similar to get a holistic view of your holdings if you spread them around. A password manager to secure your login credentials would also be a must-have so you can sleep at night.

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Bitcoin ETF - Coins

Hashdex Asset Management Ltd., the Brazilian crypto investment firm with nearly $1 billion in assets, said its spot bitcoin ETF has begun trading, six months after the company sought to convert it from a futures fund and finally giving the company a foothold in the new and competitive spot bitcoin race.

The Hashdex Bitcoin ETF (DEFI) launched as a bitcoin futures exchange-traded fund in 2022 as the Hashdex Bitcoin Futures ETF (note to readers: as of March 27, etf.com's fund page hasn't updated to reflect DEFI's changes). On Wednesday it dropped about 1 percent to $79.07. In its final days as a futures product, more than $16 million was withdrawn.

The $11.6 million fund starts out among the smallest spot bitcoin funds despite its previous life as a traded futures ETF. That may prove a disadvantage in a market where size and low fees have helped the big issuers like BlackRock Inc., whose iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) has hauled in $15.5 billion since it started trading in January, among the fastest growth rates in the history of the industry. Still, the company noted in its press release that it sees bitcoin as a once-in-a-lifetime occasion.

"Since our founding in 2018, Hashdex has strongly believed that bitcoin is a generational opportunity," the company's chief executive officer said in a press release.

The new spot bitcoin ETFs have pulled in $34.2 billion since their early January launch. That doesn't include the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC), which held billions as a trust before converting to an ETF.

Hashdex, which issued the fund with Tidal Investments, is still in the process of converting DEFI to a spot fund. According to the fund description, more than 60% of its assets are in bitcoin futures. The fund owns 5,500 bitcoins, making up 34% of the fund. It may continue to keep as much as 5% of its assets in futures or cash equivalents.

In mid-January, the SEC approved a group of ten novel spot bitcoin ETFs after a decade long regulatory battle. While Hashdex was expected to launch on January 11 with the other funds, they never reached the final step of regulatory approval to start trading. While the exchanges 19b-4 filing was approved, Hashdexs S-1 registration statement was not greenlit.

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Bitcoins price has skyrocketed, reaching an all-time high in mid-March at over $73,000.

The ETF went through review from the National Futures Association, a spokesperson said.

Spot Bitcoin Excitement

Even though the launch is months after the ten other spot products launched, analysts say that the demand for spot bitcoin ETFs is high enough that DEFI may still be competitive and pull in cash.

The getting is so good right now i could see this one getting some bites (if the fee is competitive) despite being so late, said Bloomberg Senior ETF analyst Eric Balchunas in a post.

The funds fee is currently listed as 0.90%, although many issuers have slashed fees after trading.

Contact Lucy Brewster at lucy.brewster@etf.com.





Permalink |  Copyright 2024 etf.com. All rights reserved
SINGAPORE (Reuters) -HSBC on Wednesday said it is setting up a $1 billion growth fund called ASEAN Growth Fund that provides lending to companies that are scaling up via digital platforms across Southeast Asia.

The London-headquartered bank is tapping into Southeast Asia's digital economy, which it said is among the world's fastest growing, expecting it to hit $600 billion in value by the end of the decade from $218 billion last year.

"With a working population that is digitally native, increasing in size, and poised to consume more goods and services especially on e-commerce, ASEAN has so much potential for growth," said Amanda Murphy, HSBC's South and Southeast Asia head of commercial banking, at the launch of the fund.

Besides the $1 billion lending fund, HSBC also launched a $150 million venture debt fund dedicated to the Singapore market, to provide financing to companies in the city-state that are backed by venture capital or private equity firms.

(Reporting by Fanny Potkin and Yantoultra Ngui; Editing by Tom Hogue)
London, UK --News Direct-- Hydrogen Utopia International PLC

Hydrogen Utopia International PLC (LSE:HUI, OTCQB:HUIPF) CEO Aleksandra Binkowska and Powerhouse Energy Group PLC (AIM:PHE) CEO Paul Emmitt join Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with details of their joint venture to develop a facility in Longford, Republic of Ireland, for converting non-recyclable plastic waste to hydrogen.

The CEOs discussed the strategic significance of the project. Longford, identified through the EU's Just Transition Fund for its high unemployment and demand for hydrogen, presents a promising opportunity. The city, historically industrial with varied factories including a closed denim factory, has faced economic decline and job losses. The project aims to revitalise Longford, leveraging the site's advantages such as its location, existing industrial infrastructure, and the supportive community.

The joint venture entails Powerhouse Energy providing engineering expertise and Hydrogen Utopia International contributing the site, with the partnership structured around equal financial contributions and shared development responsibilities.

Commercial terms include a 100,000 initial payment from Powerhouse Energy to Hydrogen Utopia International, followed by shared development costs and further payments upon achieving project milestones. The project's approach is technology-agnostic, deferring the decision on which hydrogen technology to deploy until necessary approvals are secured to ensure project viability.

The next steps focus on community engagement, educating Longford's residents about hydrogen technology's benefits and potential job creation. The CEOs also highlighted ongoing efforts to secure additional funding and grants. The collaboration signifies a move towards sustainable energy solutions, aiming to demonstrate a successful model for similar projects in Europe.

Contact Details

Proactive UK Ltd

+44 20 7989 0813

uk@proactiveinvestors.com

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/hydrogen-utopia-and-powerhouse-energy-ceos-discuss-joint-hydrogen-facility-in-longford-440728577
Indegene Inc

PRINCETON, N.J. and FRANKFURT, Germany, March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Indegene, a digital-first, life sciences commercialization company, announced the acquisition of Trilogy Writing & Consulting GmbH (Trilogy), a global provider of specialty medical writing capabilities across clinical, regulatory, safety and medical content to life sciences companies. The acquisition by Indegene Ireland, a subsidiary of Indegene Limited, augments Indegenes depth of clinical and regulatory writing expertise for market authorization applications globally.



Trilogy Writing & Consulting is a Germany, UK, and US-based, medical writing consultancy with know-how in the development and delivery of clinical, regulatory, safety, and medical content. It applies its expertise and unique approaches to deliver quality medical writing output. Trilogy has a proven track record of more than 22 years of providing medical writing services to the biopharmaceutical and medical devices industry with strength in expertise across oncology, immunology, neurosciences, urology, anti-infectives, endocrinology, respiratory diseases, and many other therapeutic areas. Trilogys dedication to strategic medical writing ensures client success in regulatory submissions across a breadth of health authorities including the US FDA, EU EMA, Health Canada, UK MHRA, China NMPA, Japan PMDA, and many others.

According to Grand View Research1, the medical writing market was $4.2 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to grow at 10.46% CAGR to $8.4 billion by 2030. However, biopharma companies are increasingly challenged by a lack of internal expertise (especially in complex therapeutic areas), continuous pressure on margins, and stringent expectations from regulatory authorities. By combining Trilogys expertise in medical writing with Indegenes scalability and technology, especially Generative AI, life sciences companies stand to benefit by way of higher productivity, lower cost, and greater flexibility even as they set up themselves to be future-ready, ultimately leading to faster regulatory approval for their products.

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Trilogy has years of demonstrated knowledge in medical writing, clearly evident from its team that has won the trust of life sciences leaders over the years, said Manish Gupta, CEO of Indegene. Combining Trilogys expertise with Indegenes capabilities, life sciences companies benefit from partnering with a single service provider to deliver effective medical writing expertise at scale across the value chain. Our investments in content automation, especially leveraging Generative AI, will further improve outcomes for our clients in clinical and regulatory writing and even beyond. We welcome the Trilogy team to the Indegene family and are excited for our journey together.

Dr Julia Forjanic Klapproth, Senior Partner, Trilogy, added, Joining the Indegene family is a testament to the quality of our services and the expertise of our specialist team. I am proud of Trilogys reputation and standing in the industry and look forward to the next stage of our development.

Dr Lisa Chamberlain James, Senior Partner, Trilogy, agreed, This is an exciting and important evolution for Trilogy. We are confident that this partnership with Indegene will enable us to accelerate our growth and allow us to expand our tech-enabled medical writing services for the benefit of our life sciences clients.

Seyfarth Shaw LLP represented Indegene in this transaction. Trilogy Writing & Consulting was represented by Vogel Heerma Waitz.

About Indegene

Indegene is a digital-first, life sciences commercialization company. It helps biopharmaceutical, emerging biotech and medical device companies develop products, get them to the market, and grow their impact through the life cycle in a more effective, efficient and modern way. Indegene brings together healthcare domain expertise, fit-for-purpose technology and an agile operating model to provide a diverse range of solutions. These aim to deliver, amongst other outcomes, a personalized, scalable and omnichannel experience for patients and physicians. Its what drives Indegenes team and their purpose to enable healthcare organizations be future ready. To learn more, please visit www.indegene.com

About Trilogy Writing & Consulting

Trilogy Writing & Consulting is a medical writing consultancy with expertise in the development and delivery of clinical, regulatory, safety and medical content globally. Trilogy applies effective practices to deliver content that achieves accelerate timelines with quality outputs. Through its unique methodology Trilogy applies lean principles and novel operating models to produce submission ready, HCP engaging, and patient friendly content for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, consumer health, and medical device companies globally. Trilogy has complemented its expertise through development of AI enabling technology to streamline and automate the writing process. To learn more, please visit www.trilogywriting.com

For media inquiries, please contact:

Yadunandan K V | yadunandan.kv@indegene.com

Sources

1) https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/medical-writing-market




Global cloud communications platform joins the ranks of Nvidia, YouTube, Taco Bell, and more

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Global cloud communications platform Infobip has been named to Fast Company's prestigious list of the World's Most Innovative Companies of 2024.

FastCompany Most Innovative Companies 2024

This year's list shines a spotlight on businesses that are shaping industry and culture through their innovations. These organizations are setting new standards and achieving remarkable milestones in all sectors of the economy. Alongside the World's 50 Most Innovative Companies, Fast Company recognizes 606 organizations across 58 sectors and regions.

Silvio Kutic, CEO at Infobip commented: "Innovation is at the heart of what we do at Infobip, and we are delighted to have been recognized by Fast Company for our achievements. Our technology is transforming how organizations interact with their customers across the board, from automotive, retail and financial services, through to healthcare and other social services.

"We are applying our innovative technology to transform various industry verticals. Cloud infrastructure, conversational chat apps and generative artificial intelligence (AI) allow conversations between businesses and consumers, enriching user experiences and consolidating disparate customer journeys into one seamless experience.

"The conversational future is here, and we're helping organizations accelerate their digital transformation, shifting towards intuitive two-way interactions with their customers through the channels and chat apps they use with their families and friends."

Croatia's first Unicorn, Infobip has been working with businesses such as Uber, Bolt and Cabify to disrupt the automotive industry and transform customer communications. Working with Uber in India, Infobip developed an AI-powered chatbot to enable customers to order rides via WhatsApp. The global-first initiative created a seamless booking experience for Uber customers.

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In February, Infobip joined forces with Podravka Group, a leading Croatian multinational, to launch "SuperfoodChef AI by Coolinarika". The cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) assistant is a testament to the power of responsible AI, designed to empower users to make healthier food choices and address rising obesity rates in Croatia.

Infobip has also helped digital insurance business LAQO become the first to adopt a GPT-enabled digital assistant for customer support in the European fintech industry. Infobip created a chatbot providing fast, accessible, and personalized responses to customer queries.

The World's Most Innovative Companies stands as Fast Company's hallmark franchise and one of its most anticipated editorial efforts of the year.

Fast Company's editors and writers identified the companies driving progress around the world and across industries, evaluating thousands of submissions through a competitive application process. The result is a globe-spanning guide to innovation today, from early-stage startups to some of the most valuable companies in the world.

"Our list of the Most Innovative Companies is both a comprehensive look at the innovation economy and a snapshot of the business trends that defined the year," said Fast Company editor-in-chief Brendan Vaughan. "We saw extraordinary innovation across the board in 2023, but we also saw a handful of clear patterns: the growing footprint and impact of AI, the triumphant return of live events, and great leaps forward in climate tech. We face daunting challenges on many fronts, but the solutions we celebrate in MIC give me plenty of hope about the future."

In September 2023, Infobip was recognized for its ability to execute and completeness of vision in the first Gartner Magic Quadrant for the Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) market.

-ENDS-

About Infobip

Infobip is a global cloud communications platform that enables businesses to build connected experiences across all stages of the customer journey. Accessed through a single platform, Infobip's omnichannel engagement, identity, user authentication and contact centre solutions help businesses and partners overcome the complexity of consumer communications to grow business and increase loyalty. With over a decade of industry experience, Infobip has expanded to 75+ offices globally. It offers natively built technology with the capacity to reach over seven billion mobile devices and 'things' in 6 continents connected to over 9,700+ connections of which 800+ are direct operator connections. Infobip was established in 2006 and is led by its co-founders, CEO Silvio Kutic, Roberto Kutic and Izabel Jelenic.

Recent award wins include:

Infobip ranked as number one Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) provider, in the inaugural MetriRank CPaaS Report from Metrigy (Dec 2023)

Omdia Ranks Infobip as Leader for the second year running in its CPaaS Universe Report (Nov 2023)

Infobip named a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) 2023 (Sept 2023)

Infobip named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Communications Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS) 2023 Vendor Assessment (May 2023)

Infobip named a leader in the CPaaS Leaderboard Report, Juniper Research (Mar 2024)

Infobip named a leader in the Juniper Customer Data Platform Leaderboard Report (July 2023)

Infobip named a leader in the CCaaS Leaderboard, Juniper Research (Dec 2023)

Cision

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SOURCE Infobip
north sea oil

An Israeli-owned drilling company is poised to become the UKs largest North Sea oil and gas operator after announcing a tie-up with Italian rival Eni.

Ithaca Energy would take over four key production hubs under the terms of the agreement, the Elgin Franklin, J-Area, Cygnus and Seagull platforms.

It would also assume control of Neptune Energy, a major North Sea player acquired by Eni earlier this year.

If the deal goes through it would leave Ithaca with stakes in six of the 10 largest fields in the UK North Sea.

The business would be in control of a significant chunk of the UKs gas supplies, including the fields that help supply London and southern England.

Ithaca said the deal would add significant scale and diversification to its business, nearly doubling oil and gas production to more than 100,000 barrels a day.

Israeli-owned Ithaca has four weeks to decide if it wants to confirm the deal. If it goes ahead, Ithaca would issue new shares to Eni, which would own a 38pc to 39pc stake in Ithaca.

Ithaca has previously clashed with the SNP over the development of new oil fields. Last year, then-chief executive Alan Bruce wrote to first minister Humza Yousaf to say he was extremely disappointed about the partys opposition to the Rosebank project.

Ithacas major shareholder, Delek Group of Israel, would retain more than half the shares in the enlarged business. Ithaca said: Although the discussions are at an advanced stage, there can be no certainty that a potential combination will occur.

Ithaca is listed in London but Delek owns an 89pc stake.

Gilad Myerson, executive chairman, said: We believe this potential combination would be a strong strategic fit with Eni UKs cash generative portfolio complementing Ithaca Energys high-quality, long-life asset base with significant development opportunity.

The business has already become a major player in the UKs oil and gas industry. It is involved in the controversial Rosebank development, which is led by Equinor and which won government approval to go ahead last September.

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The company is the prospective developer of Cambo, Britains largest and most controversial unexploited oil field, and plans to seek approval for the project before an autumn election  a move likely to generate a backlash from green groups.

Ithaca, which bought the field from Shell, has previously said it hoped to get the project fully approved before autumn 2024 when a Labour government is likely to take charge.

The businesss annual profits slumped to $215.6m (170.1m) from $1bn, driven by impairments related to its oil and gas projects. It was also hit by a 263m tax bill under the UK windfall tax.

Iain Lewis, Ithacas interim chief executive, said: The Energy Profits Levy continues to have a direct impact on investment in the UK North Sea, with projects across our operated and non-operated deferred or cancelled.

The extension of the Energy Profits Levy by a further year to a sunset date of March 2029 highlights the continued fiscal uncertainty our sector faces.

Ithaca listed on the London Stock Exchange in November 2022. Its former chief executive, Alan Bruce, left the group earlier this year.

A key prize in the deal with Eni is that it includes Neptune Energy, a private-equity backed company that produces oil and gas from UK fields but also controls fields in seven other countries, including Norway, Germany, Algeria, the Netherlands and Indonesia.

The foreign assets are thought to be particularly attractive, as the company has made clear its unhappiness at the unexpected rises in corporate taxation introduced by the windfall tax. Several other companies, such as rival operator Harbour Energy, have said the tax means they will shift investment to other countries.

In a recent Telegraph interview Mr Myerson said: The UK oil and gas industry is not benefiting from windfall profits  current oil prices are down 20pc and gas prices are down 75pc versus 2022, when the windfall taxes were initially introduced.

The tax continues to significantly impact investment in the North Sea threatening 200,000 highly skilled UK jobs, reducing the UKs energy security and ultimately leading to higher prices and an increase in imported, higher emission oil and gas.

In 2022, the UK spent 117bn on importing energy. Putting this into context, thats over double the total funding earmarked for schooling in the 2024/25 tax year. Its imperative that the UK government creates a tax environment that promotes investment in our own domestic resources.

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.
Assessing the Upcoming Dividend and Historical Performance

Japan Post Bank Co Ltd (JPSTF) recently announced a dividend of $50 per share, payable on a date yet to be determined, with the ex-dividend date set for 2024-03-28. 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 Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's dividend performance and assess its sustainability.

What Does Japan Post Bank Co Ltd Do?

Warning! GuruFocus has detected 5 Warning Signs with JPSTF.

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How to calculate the intrinsic value of a stock?

Japan Post Bank is the successor of the postal-savings system dating to the Meiji era. It was partially privatized in 2015, when the government sold to the public an 11% stake in parent company Japan Post Holdings, which in turn sold 11% stakes in Japan Post Bank and Japan Post Insurance to the public. Japan Post Bank is now 64% owned by Japan Post Holdings, which is majority owned by the government. The law requires Japan Post Holdings to divest itself of Japan Post Bank eventually. Japan Post Bank has 235 direct branches and also accepts deposits and sells investment products at more than 24,000 post offices across the country through a sales-agency agreement with Japan Post (an unlisted subsidiary of Japan Post Holdings).

Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's Dividend Analysis

A Glimpse at Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's Dividend History

Japan Post Bank Co Ltd has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2016. Dividends are currently distributed on a yearly basis. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.

Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's Dividend Analysis

Breaking Down Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, Japan Post Bank Co Ltd currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 3.56% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 3.71%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months. Based on Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Japan Post Bank Co Ltd stock as of today is approximately 3.56%.

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Japan Post Bank Co Ltd'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, Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's dividend payout ratio is 0.56. Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's profitability 4 out of 10 as of 2023-12-31, suggesting the dividend may not be sustainable. The company has reported net profit in 9 years out of past 10 years.

Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's growth rank of 4 out of 10 suggests that the company has poor growth prospects and thus, the dividend may not be sustainable. Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's revenue has increased by approximately 3.60% per year on average, a rate that underperforms approximately 66% 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, Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's earnings increased by approximately 6.00% per year on average, a rate that underperforms approximately 63.06% of global competitors. Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 1.20%, which underperforms approximately 74.51% of global competitors.

Engaging Conclusion

Considering Japan Post Bank Co Ltd's dividend payments, growth rate, payout ratio, profitability, and growth metrics, investors are faced with a mixed outlook. While the company has a history of consistent dividend payments, the growth ranks and competitive performance suggest caution when assessing long-term sustainability. Investors should closely monitor the company's financial health and market position while considering the broader economic and industry trends. For those seeking additional investment opportunities, GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener. As Japan Post Bank Co Ltd navigates the challenges ahead, will its dividend remain a beacon of reliability for investors?

This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


The wafting scent of peanut butter and sound of laughter fill the halls of the Brinkerhoff mansion every Tuesday afternoon. Passing spatulas around the tables filled with white bread and empty jelly jars, volunteers are busy at work chatting while making PB&Js for the unhoused and financially unsteady in Springfield.

I just think its a really good opportunity to give back to the community, Springfield resident Theresa Maggiore said. Volunteering, I just like to do that.

The volunteers are seated chair to chair at the tables and will produce between 400 to 600 sandwiches in one sitting, as they have been at the Brinkerhoff every Tuesday for over two years now.And they arent the only ones.

Theresa Maggiore of Springfield makes peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the homeless at the Brinkerhoff Mansion on Tuesday, Febr. 27, 2024, in Springfield.

PBJ Springfield, a nonprofit run by Springfield resident Kathy Smith organizes volunteers to make the namesake sandwich in bulk batches to hand out at different locations, including at the Washington Street Mission, Salvation Army Shelter, Helping Hands, Contact Ministries or Breadline.

Smith has been helping the unhoused for almost two decades now, but only started the assembly line of sandwiches during COVID-19.

People think that they can come to my house or that I have a place, Smith said. They can do it in the comfort of their own home and bring them to me  it used to be seven days a week and a couple trips downtown a day it was getting a little too much.  Im starting to have the people deliver if they feel comfortable doing that.

Towards the end of February, the non-profit hit a record setting number of handing out 2,500 PB&Js in a single week, thanks in part due to the number of volunteers increasing.

Its just grown unbelievably, and I give thanks because I couldnt do it all, Smith said.

Mary Hinkle of Springfield tosses her finished peanut and jelly sandwiches into a box on Tuesday, Feb.27, 2024, in Springfield. The sandwiches are given out to those in need every week.

Filling a need

A common misconception is that basic needs services are meant to only be used by the homeless, when in reality food insecurity can happen to those struggling to meet rent or pay for necessities.

According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, last year a full-time worker needed to earn an hourly wage of $28.58 on average to afford a modest, two-bedroom rental home in the U.S., which is over double the minimum wage in Illinois.

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31% of Illinois workforce earned less than $15 an hour and 482,705 households were behind on rent or housing payments at the start of 2023.

When Im at the breadline I do meet a lot of people, men or women, who drive up in a car and go and get some of the food thats set out, that's extra food from the food bank, Smith said. Theyll say I am a working person, but we cannot afford food.

Making a difference

Volunteers make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the homeless at the Brinkerhoff Mansion on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, in Springfield.

Brinkerhoff joins Girls on a Mission, the Blessed Sacrament Moms and volunteers in their own self-made groups to make the sandwiches weekly. The groups are always looking for donations, usually in the form of peanut butter, jelly, bread, bags, or whatever the group has posted about on their respective Facebook pages.

Smith is proud of the groups whove come together to provide food while building a stronger community.

It actually came across my feed and I thought that looks like something Id be interested in helping the community and the homeless, Gail Hawker said, volunteering for the first time with the nonprofit. My husband and I moved here back in May to Springfield, and I wanted to involve myself in some way doing something that made a difference.

Not only is Hawker making a difference, she's doing so with a classic.

Who doesn't like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich? Its quick and delicious, Hawker said.

Contact Claire Grant at CLGrant@gannett.com, X (Formerly known as Twitter): @Claire_Granted

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Springfield nonprofit helping those in need with classic PB&J sandwiches
London, UK --News Direct-- Kodal Minerals PLC

Kodal Minerals PLC (AIM:KOD) CEO Bernard Aylward joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with details of the latest milestones at the Bougouni lithium project in southern Mali.

Aylward highlighted that the project has seen significant progress following the completion of a transaction last November, ensuring the development is fully funded, including Phase One development, exploration, and further developments. The integration of teams from Kodal Minerals and their joint venture partner, Hainan Mining, has led to engineering improvements for better recovery and optimisation of the project.

Work on Dense Media Separation (DMS) units and the crushing circuit has commenced, with mining contractors expected to mobilise soon. The initial focus will be on civil work, including site preparation and clearing, to ready the operation for commissioning in late October or November, aiming for full production by year-end.

Phase One of the project involves a quick development process with a capital expenditure of $65 million. Phase Two aims to extend the mine life to 10-15 years, increasing production to over 370,000 tonnes per annum by adding a flotation plant for processing ore from additional prospects.

Aylward said the project enjoys support from the Malian government and local communities, with the Environment Minister visiting the site and expressing satisfaction.

Contact Details

Proactive UK Ltd

+44 20 7989 0813

uk@proactiveinvestors.com

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/kodal-minerals-reports-significant-progress-at-bougouni-lithium-project-in-mali-148897823
Kroger is shutting down Austin delivery services and cutting dozens of workers as it closes its Northeast Austin fulfillment center, about two years after it first announced plans to expand into Central Texas.

The Ohio-based grocery chain only offered delivery, and no physical location in the Austin-area. The delivery service allowed customers to place an order on Kroger's website or app that was then fulfilled by robots that retrieved products from facilities and sorted them for delivery. The groceries were delivered in refrigerated vans to customers.

All orders were fulfilled at a 70,000-foot facility on 2401 Ferguson Lane in Austin, which the company is now shutting down. Kroger first announced plans for the facility in March 2022, and said at the time it expected to start deliveries later that year and eventually employ up to 161 people. The location was considered a spoke of a fulfillment center in Dallas, which the company said is not impacted by the closure.

In a statement, the company said it aims to test and quickly learn the most effective ways to deliver food to customers, and the location did not meet its standards.

Kroger

Austin is one of three spoke locations the company is closing for not meeting benchmarks, according to an announcement to impacted customers on Kroger's website. It noted there will be no Kroger stores or delivery options available to Austin, San Antonio, or South Florida customers after the spokes close.

The company said in a statement that it "remains committed" to growing its e-commerce offerings and delivery across the United States.

Kroger's delivery service had been competing with a crowded Austin market with services such as grocery delivery app Instacart, as well as other stores such as Walmart, Austin-based Whole Foods and H-E-B, which offer delivery and curbside pickup. H-E-B, which has the most stores of any grocery chain in the region, has invested heavily in its the delivery space since it bought Austin-based delivery service Favor in 2018.

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When is the last day to order from Kroger?

According to the Kroger website, customers will still be able to shop through May 24, including with coupons and gift cards, and the last day of deliveries will be on May 25.

Can you get a refund if you have a Kroger Boost membership?

Customers that had a "Boost" membership account will receive a refund within 30 days on monthly and annual subscriptions.

WARN notice: Over 50 workers impacted by the closure

The closure was noted in a WARN notice, short for Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, that was sent to the Texas Workforce Commission. The act federally mandates employers to give local governments notice of major layoffs or closures.

The notice shows Kroger is cutting all 52 workers at the cross-dock warehouse as part of the closure. The employees, which are largely delivery drivers, will be laid off officially on May 25.

The notice mentions that eligible employees that want to remain with the company in other localities would be offered relocation assistance but does not note if any positions are eligible. Kroger did not respond to questions about eligibility or what locations any new positions would be.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Kroger stops deliveries, lays off workers as it leaves Austin
The Lake Cable Shopping Center in Jackson Township has seen some business turnover in the past year, with several businesses leaving. Tremont Coffee Co. is planning to open at the plaza.

JACKSON TWP.  Several businesses have left the Lake Cable Shopping Center, and at least one  Tremont Coffee Co.  will be moving in.

The plaza at 5550 Fulton Drive NW is owned by the private Lake Cable Recreation Association, which began discussing options for the aging building in 2022. The association previously managed the property but now leases it to Lake Cable resident Jeff Doll of JD Real Estate Investments.

According to documents shared with The Canton Repository, the association in late 2023 sent its members mail-in ballots for a vote on the 20-year lease, the terms of which included a $600,000 gift from a member for renovations to the Lake Cable Clubhouse. The shopping center alternatives listed were an estimated $4,000 assessment per household for renovations or a $600 assessment to demolish it for green space.

Doll and the Lake Cable Recreation Association declined to comment about the shopping center and lease.

Multiple departures in the past year from Lake Cable Shopping Center

Uncertainty about the shopping center's future pushed Paper Twigs, a floral boutique, to relocate in January 2023. The business provides floral arrangements, invitations, and other wedding and event services  often booked as far as a year in advance.

Owner Laura Woofter said she was concerned about having enough notice to take care of planned events amid talk of the building's potential demolition. So she began looking for another location and found one at 5720 Hills and Dales Road NW, which was formerly Easterday's Flower & Gift Shop.

I just got worried," Woofter said. "You could tell that nobody really knew what was going on, so I felt really uneasy about staying.

The new space is much larger, she added, with ample room to process flowers. Business at Paper Twigs also was growing beforehand, and Woofter realized an expansion would be needed to continue growing.

So its all been pretty positive, although, I will say, I miss our neighbors at Lake Cable," she said.

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Kurt Gibbons, co-owner and managing partner of Ohio Tea Co., talks about the shop's move from the Lake Cable Shopping Center to a new location in Jackson Township.

In the past few months, Ohio Tea Co. and Dorrie's Booktique also left the Lake Cable Shopping Center.

Kurt Gibbons and his father-in-law, Terry Gabet, who own Ohio Tea, said they were looking for another location with more space after eight years at the plaza. But the discussions about the building "pushed our move into high gear," Gibbons said.

"We wanted to know our future versus kind of leave it up in the air," he said.

They ended up about a half-mile away at 5154 Fulton Drive NW. The former medical billing office has three times the space as the previous store, Gibbons said.

Linda Reid, an employee at Ohio Tea Co., stocks flavors at the Jackson Township business. Ohio Tea has moved from the Lake Cable Shopping Center to a nearby location.

Gabet said the business needed more warehouse space because of an increase in walk-in customers, online sales and wholesale business. The new store opened in mid-February and will eventually host educational sessions, such as how to make chai or brew in the Chinese gong fu style.

The shop also features an expanded selection of local goods  pottery, honey, chocolate and other tea accessories. Near the checkout counter is a workstation for customers to mix teas and create their own blends.

We are slowly introducing a make-and-take," Gibbons said, adding that the teas will be limited to a few options on busy days.

Booktique owner: 'The main thing is ... he's saving the plaza.'

Dorrie Cable-Noggle, owner of the BookTique, talks about her recent business move from the Lake Cable Shopping Center to Plain Township.

Dorrie Cable-Noggle of Dorrie's Booktique watched the other businesses move but didn't intend to leave the Lake Cable Shopping Center. Ultimately, she said, Doll opted "to go in a different direction" with her spot, which now has Tremont Coffee signs in the windows.

Cable-Noggle was offered another location in the plaza, but the rent had increased and moving seemed a better option. She has no hard feelings about Doll's decision.

"The main thing is ... hes saving the plaza," Cable-Noggle said. "So I wish him well.

In late February and early March, friends and customers helped her move boxes of mostly used books to 4031 Hills and Dales Rd NW. The new store is in the same plaza as Samantha's Sunny Corner and Gabe's Meat & Deli.

It has been amazing," Cable-Noggle said.

There's more turnover of parking spaces and a morning breakfast crowd that prompted her to open two hours earlier  at 9 a.m.  on Fridays and Saturdays. Cable-Noggle also estimated half of her customers during a recent Saturday sale were new.

The Booktique recently moved from the Lake Cable Shopping Center in Jackson Township to Plain Township.

Some business owners stay put

Lakefront Beauty Studio will celebrate its 40th anniversary at the shopping center today. Owner Dana Foltz said she's the plaza's longest tenant, followed by Jose's Landing.

"There were a lot of different things there 40 years ago," she said. "Fulton Road was only two lanes.

Three years ago, Foltz renovated her salon and imported all new equipment from Italy. She thanked her customers for their loyalty over the years and said she hopes to continue working out of the Lake Cable Shopping Center.

"I plan on staying as long as I can," she said.

Tara Myer, owner of the Paw Pad, talks about business at the Lake Cable Shopping Center in Jackson Township.

A more recent addition to the plaza, The Paw Pad, is among the businesses that remain. Owner Tara Myer opened the dog grooming and pet boutique in January 2021 and expanded into a connected vacant storefront about a year and half ago.

Myer said the building has been "a little lonely recently" but she has no plans to leave and eagerly anticipates the coffee shop addition. The property management change hasn't changed much for her, and Doll has made a few repairs.

"He's been in here asking me what I need," she said.

The founders of Tremont Coffee, Mark and Michelle Kemp, said they are excited to open their fourth location at the plaza and are anticipating a July opening.

The owners said renovating an older building presents additional challenges, but they appreciate the history that comes with it.

"Meeting today's building requirements, especially for food service, can be quite demanding," the Kemps said in an email. "Yet, personally, it's incredibly rewarding to be a part of bringing new life into such buildings and witness our dreams turning into reality."

Reach Kelly at 330-580-8323 or kelly.byer@cantonrep.com.On X: @kbyerREP

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Lake Cable Shopping Center under new management of Jeff Doll
Insight into Mitsubishi Corp's Upcoming Dividend and Historical Performance

Mitsubishi Corp (MSBHF) recently announced a dividend of $35 per share, payable on 0000-00-00, with the ex-dividend date set for 2024-03-28. 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 Mitsubishi Corp's dividend performance and assess its sustainability.

What Does Mitsubishi Corp Do?

Warning! GuruFocus has detected 7 Warning Signs with MSBHF.

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Mitsubishi Corp is a conglomerate that operates businesses in various industries. Its operating segments include Natural Gas, Industrial materials, Petroleum & chemicals, Mineral resource, Industrial Infrastructure, Automotive, Food & Consumer Industry, Power Solution, and Urban Development.

Mitsubishi Corp's Dividend Analysis

A Glimpse at Mitsubishi Corp's Dividend History

Mitsubishi Corp has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2011. Dividends are currently distributed on a bi-annually basis. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.

Breaking Down Mitsubishi Corp's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, Mitsubishi Corp currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 2.04% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 2.23%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months.

Over the past three years, Mitsubishi Corp's annual dividend growth rate was 10.90%. Extended to a five-year horizon, this rate decreased to 9.00% per year. And over the past decade, Mitsubishi Corp's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at an impressive 13.50%.

Based on Mitsubishi Corp's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Mitsubishi Corp stock as of today is approximately 3.14%.

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Mitsubishi Corp'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, Mitsubishi Corp's dividend payout ratio is 0.34.

Mitsubishi Corp's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Mitsubishi Corp's profitability 7 out of 10 as of 2023-12-31, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported net profit in 9 years out of past 10 years.

Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Mitsubishi Corp's growth rank of 7 out of 10 suggests that the company 's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors.

Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Mitsubishi Corp's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. Mitsubishi Corp's revenue has increased by approximately 15.30% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 74.42% 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, Mitsubishi Corp's earnings increased by approximately 30.00% per year on average, a rate that outperforms than approximately 66.13% of global competitors.

Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of 13.30%, which outperforms than approximately 60.32% of global competitors.

Concluding Thoughts on Mitsubishi Corp's Dividend Prospects

Considering Mitsubishi Corp's stable dividend history, its promising dividend yield and growth rates, combined with a sustainable payout ratio and strong profitability, the company appears to be in a favorable position to continue rewarding shareholders with dividends. Additionally, the robust growth metrics suggest that Mitsubishi Corp is well-positioned for future financial health, which is vital for maintaining and potentially increasing dividend payments. Investors seeking to capitalize on dividend-paying stocks may find Mitsubishi Corp an attractive option, but as always, should conduct their own due diligence or consult with financial advisors.

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.


(Bloomberg) -- Drivers in New York City inched closer to paying a new fee to enter Manhattans central business district after the Metropolitan Transportation Authority approved the nations first congestion-pricing plan, which could begin as soon as mid-June.

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The board of the MTA, which is implementing the toll, authorized the pricing structure in an 11-to-1 vote during its monthly meeting on Wednesday.

New York has more traffic than any other place in the US, and now were doing something about it, Janno Lieber, the MTAs chief executive officer, said at a press briefing following the meeting.

The new plan will charge most cars $15 for entering the borough south of 60th Street during peak times. It aims to reduce traffic, improve air quality, boost transit ridership and provide an estimated $1 billion a year to modernize the MTAs network of subways, buses and commuter rails.

Congestion pricing we know is going to produce less pollution in the region, less congestion in the region and a better economy in the region, said Carl Weisbrod, chair of the MTA subcommittee that crafted the plan and a former director of New York Citys Department of City Planning.

While the MTA vote is a significant step, the program will need final approval from the Federal Highway Administration before the new charges can begin, a procedure that Lieber said hes confident will happen in time for the MTA to begin charging drivers in June. But the program is contentious and faces several court challenges that could block or delay its implementation.

While the MTA, transit advocates and environmental groups support it, critics say congestion pricing forces local residents to pay a fee just to return home and will strain small businesses that will need to absorb the expense or pass it on to customers. It also comes at a time when crime on the subways is an increasing concern.

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For New Jersey drivers who commute into New York City, the plan adds a toll on top of fees they already pay on crossings to get into Manhattan. A New Jersey district court in Newark is set to hear oral arguments on April 3 in Governor Phil Murphys legal challenge thats seeking a longer environmental analysis of the program.

This is far from over and we will continue to fight this blatant cash grab, Murphy said in a statement following the vote.

Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella, the United Federation of Teachers and a group of residents have also filed suit to delay or halt the new toll.

Those lawsuits have forced the MTA to put on hold subway signal upgrade projects in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Other projects are at risk: adding new elevators to subway stations, replacing old subway cars, extending the Second Avenue subway line to Harlem and even routine repair projects.

Lone Dissent

David Mack, who represents Nassau County on Long Island, was the only board member who voted against the tolling plan. He expressed concern that the new fee would hurt businesses and discourage people from returning to office buildings, which are still hurting from the pandemic shift to remote work.

Dont kill the goose that lays the egg, Mack said during the meeting.

Read More: Love It or Hate It: New Yorkers Weigh In on Congestion Tolling

The vote comes after the MTA conducted a public hearing process so residents in the New York City area could voice their opinions on the tolling initiative. Of about 26,000 comments and testimonies the MTA received, 60% were supportive of the congestion-pricing plan while 32% were against it, according to an MTA internal document.

Under the plan, passenger cars with E-ZPass will pay $15 during peak periods, with E-ZPass trucks paying $24 during those hours. Vehicles without E-ZPass would pay more. Drivers already paying tolls on the Lincoln, Holland, Queens-Midtown or Brooklyn-Battery tunnels will receive discounts during peak times to help lower the new fee. Driving during the overnight hours is cheaper: E-ZPass passenger cars will pay $3.75 while E-ZPass trucks will pay $6.

The Trucking Association of New York called the MTAs decision reckless, saying it will increase costs for businesses and consumers.

This decision will have far-reaching impacts on New Yorkers everywhere, who will soon see increased prices for basic goods as motor carriers and the businesses they serve  including restaurants, bodegas, pharmacies, grocers, and everything in between  adjust to higher costs of doing business, Kendra Hems, the TANYs president, said in a statement.

Under the plan, taxi and for-hire passengers will pay a per-trip fee: $1.25 for taxi riders and $2.50 for for-hire customers, such as those using Uber and Lyft. Certain government and emergency vehicles, school buses and private bus operators, including the Hampton Jitney Inc., will be exempt from the plan.

Read More: Key NYC Subway Repairs Put at Risk From Congestion Toll Lawsuits

State lawmakers approved the congestion pricing initiative in 2019 and tasked the MTA with implementing it.

(Updates with comments from MTA chief, New Jersey governor starting in third paragraph)

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(Bloomberg) -- Oil lost more of the ground it had gained early this week as US crude and gasoline inventories increased, undercutting expectations for tightening supplies.

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West Texas Intermediate dipped 0.3%, its second straight day of minor losses, after a US government report showed oil stockpiles rose 3.17 million barrels last week. Still, the gain was about a third of the 9.3 million-barrel increase projected by the industry-funded American Petroleum Institute on Tuesday.

Crude has rallied this year on Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil infrastructure and extended supply cutbacks by OPEC and its allies. Meanwhile, a challenging economic outlook in China and robust non-OPEC supply growth remain headwinds.

Gasoline futures, which in previous weeks played into crudes bullish tone, traded at the lowest in almost two weeks. US stockpiles of the fuel rose 1.3 million barrels last week, according to Energy Information Administration, a reversal from the 4.4 million-barrel drawdown the API projected. Implied weekly demand was below 9 million barrels a day for the second week in a row, adding to the bearish sentiment.

Given an approaching end of month, end of quarter and the long Easter weekend, it is understandable that a little froth comes off the markets, said John Evans, an analyst at brokerage PVM.

The generally more positive tone across markets in recent weeks has some banks calling for higher prices. JPMorgan Chase & Co. said Wednesday that crude could hit $100 a barrel if Russias recent decision to cut output isnt balanced by other measures. US gasoline prices are also likely to hit $4 a gallon by May, the banks analysts, including Natasha Kaneva, wrote in a note.

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OSAKA, JAPAN / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / The Kasashima Gallery in Osaka is set to host the exhibition "Ink: Heaven, Earth and Humanity" from March 27th to April 7th, showcasing a series of new black ink works by contemporary artist Kigawa Kokoro.

Contemporary artist Kigawa Kokoro debuts new works from the "Heaven, Earth, Humanity" series.

In this world, everything takes on various shapes-square, circular, irregular-much like the characteristics of heaven, earth, and Humanity. Through the layering and gradation of ink, combined with the interplay of black and white, Kigawa Kokoro presents the vastness and complexity of the world. Her series of works are filled with irregular lines, resembling the footprints of every life journey.

In this exhibition, contemporary artist Kigawa Kokoro unveils for the first time her creations of "Heaven," "Earth," and "Humanity," enveloped in a world of black. Whether heaven, earth, or humanity, each possesses its unique shapes-square, circular, irregular-which serve as sources of aesthetic appeal. Kigawa Kokoro endeavors to depict the world's appearance through lines and ink tones.

Kigawa Kokoro hails from Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and specializes in using ink and irregular lines in her creations. Her artworks predominantly feature black and white, leaving ample space for contemplation. Her works reflect her perception of the world. Within the simplicity of her lines lie profound meanings, and due to their poetic nature, she is acclaimed as a poet in painting.

On the opening day of the exhibition on March 27th, the Kasashima Gallery will host a series of events aimed at bringing the public closer to art, including "Face-to-Face Art Talks," "Artist Storytelling Sessions," and "Ink Painting Experiences." The Kasashima Gallery invites friends who love contemporary art and calligraphy to join the celebration and welcomes parents to bring their children to enjoy artistic and cultural family time together. For more information about the activities, please visit the Kasashima Gallery website: https://kasashima.art/

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Exhibition Information

Exhibition: "Ink: Heaven, Earth and Humanity"

Location: Kasashima Gallery, Osaka

Date: From March 27th, 11:00 to April 7th, 17:00. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Art Lecture

Event: Interpretation and Impact of "Ink: Heaven, Earth and Humanity"

Speaker: Kigawa Kokoro

Location: Kasashima Gallery, Osaka

Date: April 14th, 14:00 to 15:30

Media Contacts:

Ada Huang

art@kasashima.art

https://kasashima.art/

SOURCE: Kasashima Gallery





View the original press release on accesswire.com




With more than 1,200 people in Pery soon to be out of work by the end of June due to the closing of the Tyson Foods plant, can the job market in the Iowa town accommodate the demand?

How many jobs are available in Perry?

Employees leave Tyson Food's Perry pork packing plant after the company announced the location's closure Monday, March 11, 2024.

There are 23 standard job postings located in Perry, according to Iowa Workforce Development as of mid-March. There were also 10 hybrid and 165 remote opportunities on the IowaWORKS website, said Jesse Dougherty, a marketing and communications officer for IWD.

More: The Tyson plant in Perry, Iowa, is closing after 61 years. What we know about its plans.

Dallas County, where Perry is located, posted 1,103 jobs to IowaWORKS in February, ranging from standard to remote.

More jobs are open in some surrounding surrounding counties. The region's largest, Polk County, had more than 12,000 openings, Story County had 1,500 and Boone County had just over 200 job openings. This would require Perry residents to make roughly a 30-minute commute or more to employment in any of the three counties.

A majority of employees at the Tyson plant are in production. There were 6,373 job openings on IowaWORKS in manufacturing last month, Dougherty said.

Of those openings, 1,700 were in food-related positions while just more than 1,000 were in machinery-related positions. Iowa Workforce Development will consider transferable skills when aiding impacted workers to find employment.

There will also be a series of job fairs offered over the next few months for Tyson employees.

More: As Tyson Foods closes Perry plant, are other Iowa facilities headed to the chopping block?

How much did Tyson in Perry pay employees?

A billboard for Tyson Foods sits outside the Perry pork packaging plant Monday March 11, 2024, along Westbound 141 in Perry, IA.

The plant advertised in 2022 wages starting at $18.40 an hour for general production workers with a sign-on bonus of $5,000. It also advertised an extra $1 an hour for good attendance and full benefits. That is slightly below Iowa's hourly average.

A billboard still outside the plant when the closure was announced advertised starting wages of $18.80 per hour.

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What aid is the Iowa Workforce Division offering Perry?

The Iowa Workforce Development will establish a temporary IowaWORKS office in Perry to support the impacted workers, Dougherty said. The center will offer career planning services in several languages.

Iowa Workforce Development recommends avoiding applying for unemployment benefits too early because they are not available when employees still have the opportunity for full-time work. Once Tyson closes the Perry plant, the Iowa Workforce Division can assist with the unemployment process, Dougherty said.

More: Iowa Mobile Workforce Center comes to Perry to assist workers facing Tyson plant closure

"We will be on hand to assist employees with that step once they are no longer working for Tyson," Dougherty said. "The best route for these workers right now is to begin exploring options and to educate themselves about the career resources available to help them make as smooth a transition as possible into another job."

More: Grassley says Tyson decision to close pork plant a 'great big punch to the gut' for Perry

Current job openings in Perry, Iowa

Here is a sampling of the type of jobs currently advertised in Perry that require minimal experience and offer pay similar to that advertised by Tyson.

Custom applicator associate

This full-time position with Landus Cooperative in Perry applies crop protection products and aids in Landus' agronomy and grain operations.

Applicants must have or be able to obtain a commercial pesticide applicator license with 1A, 1B and 1C endorsements. The state of Iowa requires commercial applicators to complete an educational program and pass an exam with 80% or higher. Candidates must have the ability to obtain a CDL as well. Landus offers education assistance and training for the "right candidate," according to the Landus website.

Pay: $18.50 or more depending on experience plus benefits

More: Tyson plant closing announcement takes Perry by surprise, but city leaders vow to rebound

Middle school para

Perry Community School District is looking for a full-time paraeducator at the middle school. The job is full-time and requires a high school diploma or equivalent to be hired, according to IowaWORKS.

Pay: Depends on experience

Elementary special education paraeducator

Perry Elementary is also looking for special education teaching assistants. This full-time job requires a high school diploma or equivalent.

Pay: $16.80 minimum, depending on experience

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Tyson is cutting 1,200 jobs in Perry. What other jobs exist in town?
Howard Fu, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer of Procore Technologies Inc (NYSE:PCOR), has sold 1,457 shares of the company on March 22, 2024, according to a recent SEC filing. The transaction was executed at an average price of $81.19 per share, resulting in a total value of $118,275.83.

Procore Technologies Inc is a company that provides cloud-based construction management software. The platform connects project stakeholders with the applications they need to increase efficiency and project margins. The company's software streamlines various construction processes such as project management, quality and safety, and construction financials to ensure real-time access to project information.

Over the past year, Howard Fu has sold a total of 31,283 shares of Procore Technologies Inc and has not made any purchases of the stock. This latest transaction continues a trend of insider selling at the company, with a total of 102 insider sells and no insider buys over the past year.

On the day of the sale, Procore Technologies Inc shares were trading at $81.19, giving the company a market capitalization of $11.94 billion. The stock's price is closely aligned with the GuruFocus Value (GF Value) of $81.35, indicating that Procore Technologies Inc is fairly valued. The price-to-GF-Value ratio stands at 1.

The GF Value is a proprietary intrinsic value estimate from GuruFocus, which is determined by considering historical trading multiples such as the price-earnings ratio, price-sales ratio, price-book ratio, and price-to-free cash flow. It also includes a GuruFocus adjustment factor based on the company's historical returns and growth, as well as future business performance estimates provided by Morningstar analysts.

Procore Technologies Inc CFO & Treasurer Howard Fu Sells Company Shares

The insider trend image above reflects the recent selling activity by company insiders, which may be of interest to investors monitoring insider behaviors for insights into company performance and valuation.

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Procore Technologies Inc CFO & Treasurer Howard Fu Sells Company Shares

The GF Value image provides a visual representation of the stock's current valuation in relation to its intrinsic value, supporting the assessment that Procore Technologies Inc is fairly valued at its current price.

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.


(Bloomberg) -- Embattled German landlord Adler Group SA has asked its bondholders for permission to sell an unfinished apartment development at a 47% discount to its 2022 valuation, as the company races to repay its vast debt load.

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The real estate firm aims to sell a project known as Cologne Apart for 44 million ($48 million), according to documents seen by Bloomberg News. That is 37% less than the price valuers estimated on June 30 last year and 47% lower than its valuation in June 2022.

Its at least the second time Adler has sought creditors approval to sell the development, after initially securing their blessing for a 50 million sale last year. The price slipped after protracted negotiations.

The sale seeks to reduce the risk of Adler having to stump up even more money for the project and the perils of being held liable for potential environmental damages, remedial measures and the like, Adler told bondholders in a letter.

A spokesperson for Adler did not immediately respond to emailed requests for comment.

Read More: Adlers Shock Ruling Turns Up Heat on Landlords Selloff Plan

A UK court derailed its restructuring plan earlier this year, putting even more pressure on the landlord to sell assets at a favorable price. Adler has sold more than 30,000 apartments since short seller Viceroy Research accused it of fraud more than two years ago  allegations the firm has strongly rejected.

The deals, along with the partial sale of a subsidiary, cut its portfolio by more than half, but the proceeds made only a small dent in its debt.

As part of Adlers debt restructuring plan and injection of new funds, investors demanded authority to approve any future asset sales  and said they wanted a say in what is and isnt sold and at what price. The firms creditors can vote against any such transactions if they deem the price too low, according to people familiar with the matter and documents seen by Bloomberg News.

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The majority of bondholders have so far approved the sales.

The latest planned asset sale comes after Adler asked for consent in November for a series of disposals, when it expected to sell the Cologne property for 50 million, the document said. It also sought to sell its Grand Central project for 80 million at the time, a 45% discount to its June 2022 valuation and a 30% haircut from the same month last year. It also sought permission at the time to sell the Riverside project for 17 million, a 25% discount to its June valuation.

Creditors have until April 9 to approve the sale of the Cologne development.

Growing Pressure

The company, which is scheduled to report its earnings next month, is under growing pressure to execute deals in the face of falling German apartment prices and a looming maturity wall next year.

Progress on major sales has been slow, with potential buyers well aware of the pressure the company is under, while its loan-to-value ratio has climbed to almost 90%  giving it little wiggle room for further writedowns or discounted sales.

The company marked down the value of its properties by 8.4% in the first half of last year, a figure that was in part cushioned by a 2.4% increase in its rents.

The company has about 400 million of debt maturing this year and almost 2.2 billion due in 2025 including the new money facility it received under the restructuring, according to a presentation for its third-quarter results. In total it has 6.5 billion of debt outstanding.

--With assistance from Christine Maurus.

(Updates with writedowns, maturities in the last two paragraphs.)

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PARIS (Reuters) -Renault plans to sell a stake of about 2.5% in Nissan shares to the Japanese car maker in a deal that could result generate up to 362 million euros ($392 million), the French firm said on Wednesday.

The share sale is its second as Renault looks to cut its Nissan stake to 15% from around 43% as the two firms reshape their longstanding partnership.

Renault sold a 5% stake in Nissan back to the Japanese company in December.

The latest sale of up to 100,242,900 Nissan shares are part of the 24.63% in Nissan's capital that Renault has put into a French trust.

The sale will be implemented as part of a share buyback programme announced by Nissan, Renault said.

"This transaction will allow faster deleveraging and supports the group's determination to return to an investment grade rating," Renault said in a statement.

Renault has the right to sell a further 180,447,100 Nissan shares that were offered but have not been bought back by the Japanese firm to third parties during a 180-day period.

As part of an agreement last year to reduce their alliance, Renault and Nissan aim to have cross-shareholdings of 15%.

($1 = 0.9240 euros)

(Reporting by GV De Clercq and Dominique Patton, editing by Inti Landauro)
(Bloomberg) -- The US Securities and Exchange Commission can proceed with its lawsuit against Coinbase Inc., the biggest US cryptocurrency-trading platform, claiming the company failed to register as a securities business, a federal judge in New York ruled.

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The SEC adequately alleged that Coinbase engages in the unregistered sale and offer of securities and illegally operates as an exchange, a broker and a clearing agency under federal securities laws, US District Judge Katherine Polk Failla said in her opinion Wednesday.

The decision is a blow to Coinbase and other cryptocurrency players who have argued the SEC has no power to regulate them because they dont traffic in securities that have to be registered. The judge, however, dismissed claims that Coinbases Wallet application acts as a broker under the US law.

Shares of Coinbase were down 3.7% after falling as much as 4.8%.

The crypto nomenclature may be of recent vintage, but the challenged transactions fall comfortably within the framework that courts have used to identify securities for nearly eighty years, the judge wrote.

The ruling is a win for the SEC, which has asserted jurisdiction over crypto and has won rulings from several judges in New York in cases claiming authority over crypto firms.

Read More: Coinbase Says Crypto Like Beanie Babies in SEC Case Hearing

The ruling comes at an early stage of the case in which the judge was asked to decide whether the SECs claims, if true, are sufficient for the case to go forward. Coinbase still has opportunity to defeat the case after evidence-gathering or on appeal.

The case likely enters a prolonged discovery phase of months if not years, plus appeals, said Elliott Stein, senior litigation analyst for Bloomberg Intelligence. Final resolution may require a decision by the US Supreme Court, Stein said.

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We were prepared for this, and we look forward to uncovering more about the SECs internal views and discussions on crypto regulation, said Paul Grewal, chief legal officer for Coinbase, in a post on X. Grewal said the company remains confident in its legal arguments against the SECs suit.

The SEC sued Coinbase in June, claiming that, beginning in 2019, Coinbase made billions of dollars illegally promoting the sale of securities. The SEC claims Coinbase has failed to register, as required, as an exchange, a broker and a clearing agency.

Its the economic realities of a transaction, not the labels, that determine whether a particular offering constitutes a security, an SEC spokesperson said in a statement. Failure to register and follow the securities laws deprives investors of critical protections, the spokesperson said.

The case is Securities and Exchange Commission v. Coinbase Inc., 23-cv-04738, US District Court, Southern District of New York (Manhattan).

--With assistance from Chris Dolmetsch.

(Updates with details of next steps in case.)

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Hello from Zurich. I spent the last week in Switzerland's financial capital and the week prior in London, meeting with executives from some of Europe's largest companies. Among those executives were DEI leaders who oversee sprawling, global people operation teams with outposts in the U.S.

As American companies rush to alter diversity policies amid legal challenges to DEI efforts, Europe-based companies seem unperturbed by the opposition from lawmakers and high-profile leaders across the Atlantic, with many telling me that while they might have tweaked some language to be more inclusive, they still view diversity programs as an integral part of their core business strategy, especially in the U.S.

They also stressed that their companies haven't made significant withdrawals from DEI initiatives, nor do they feel particularly apprehensive about anti-DEI litigation. What's more, they seemed more willing to adapt and gravitate to geographies where there's less resistance to their work. After all, as one executive deadpanned to me, the U.S. isn't the only country with racial diversity. Valid.

Fittingly, today's raceAhead comes from Fortunes Emma Burleigh, who spoke with George-Axelle Broussillon Matschinga, vice president of diversity and inclusion at the Paris-headquartered cosmetics giant.

The company, which operates over 500 stores across North America, saw record-breaking sales in 2023, along with a sizable increase in the share of diverse managers since 2020's racial reckoning. Additionally, Sephora named the Iranian-born Artemis Patrick its North America CEO last year, and she'll be the first woman to hold that role when she assumes the corner office in April.

"The surge in diverse leaders comes as the beauty retailer notched some $19.4 billion in revenue last year, making it LVMHs most profitable subsidiary," says Emma. It's also a profit-motivated play, allowing Sephora to understand and tap into a financially strong and loyal buying market. People of color in the U.S. hold nearly $3.9 trillion in purchasing power, with Black Americans alone spending $6.6 billion on beauty in 2021.

Story continues

The below first appeared in sister newsletter CHRO Daily. Subscribe to that newsletter here. Emma's interview below has been edited and condensed for clarity.

How did the murder of George Floyd affect your diversity strategy?

When Sephora hired me four years ago, right before the pandemic, my task was to build a DE&I Heart Journey; then the murder of George Floyd happened. We decided as a company to pause and listen to what was happening in our stores to help inform a new strategy and launch a different series of projects.

Weve now increased the representation of talent of color in our leadership, so 52% of our leaders are of color. When we started in 2020, we were at 39%. What helped was revamping our recruiting processes and reviewing how we develop and advance talent. We also did not want to hire talent and then see them leave. We told ourselves, Okay, so we have to look for these talents in different pools. Our recruiting team works with HBCUs and participates in the National Black MBA Fair.

We don't have hiring quotas at Sephora because, obviously, it's illegal. But we are asking our leaders to interview more BIPOC candidates. This has been very effective because we know theres a ripple effect: The more BIPOC candidates you interview, the greater the likelihood of hiring them. And that's exactly what we've seen so far.

Another helpful thing was having a D&I objective tied to performance reviews. Everyone at Sephora has a D&I objective tied to bonus compensation, from the store associate level up to the CEO. And that has helped tremendously to keep us accountable.

How do you respond to diversity critics like Elon Musk and Bill Ackman, who say that DEI is bad for business?

D&I is good for business. From a sense of belonging standpoint, we saw an increase in workers belonging score, as they are comfortable bringing their selves to work. From a business standpoint, we are a retailer that does well despite the [DEI criticism]. I also see a commitment from Sephoras leaders and external stakeholders, who make up a steering committee. This external committee is composed of 25 leading voices in the field of equity, social justice, and racial equity, and they've been with us from the beginning when we launched the strategy. They are still supporting us and giving us feedback. It means that we are heading in the right direction and that weve found and surrounded ourselves with the right people to do the work collectively.

Artemis Patrick will become Sephora North Americas CEO next month. How should the head of DEI work with the CEO?

Commitment from the top is critical for any D&I initiative. We will continue this work, and [Artemis] will have her own legacy because she's a woman of color. Our commitment will stay the same, and she will also provide the means to propel us to the next phase of diversity and inclusion at Sephora.

Emma Burleigh

emma.burleigh@fortune.com

Ruth Umoh

ruth.umoh@fortune.com

Join me in NYC on April 25 for a DEI roundtable hosted by FleishmanHillard to discuss what lies ahead for the industry. Space is limited. Sign up here.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
(Bloomberg) -- The ship that struck and destroyed a Baltimore bridge on Tuesday morning has a checkered history, including at least one earlier collision and propulsion worries.

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Its still not clear what caused the Dali to smash into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, but video footage showed nearly all of its lights going off shortly before impact. The incident is proving disruptive for shipping at one of the busiest ports on the US East Coast and also for road transport, as it severed a key link on the major highway encircling Baltimore.

The Dali hit a stone wall berth at the Port of Antwerp in 2016 during unmooring maneuvers, according to VesselFinder. The vessel, which was built in 2015, suffered damage to its stern and transom but remained afloat. The ship was then repaired.

Read More: Baltimore Bridge Collapse Reverberates From Cars to Coal

The Washington Post reported that the ship was sold to Singapore-based Grace Ocean Private Ltd. after that accident. Grace Ocean wasnt immediately available for comment.

More recently, mechanical questions have been raised. Last June, a routine safety inspection at San Antonio, Chile, found issues related to some of the gauges and thermometers linked to the Dalis propulsion and auxiliary machinery, according to Tokyo MoU, an organization that promotes safe shipping. The issues werent grounds to detain the ship, flying under the Singapore flag, and it was unclear exactly what they were.

A standard ship examination by the US Coast Guard later last year found no deficiencies, the Equasis marine database showed.

Records and statutory certificates show the Dalis structural integrity and the functionality of its equipment were valid at the time of the Baltimore incident, the Singaporean government said in a statement. The vessel also passed two separate foreign port inspections in June and September of last year, although a faulty monitor gauge for fuel pressure was fixed before the ship departed port.

Story continues

Read More: Dali Delivered Ikea Furniture, Flooring Before Baltimore Crash

The Dali is managed and operated by Synergy Marine, and on charter to Danish shipping giant A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S. A London-based spokesman for Synergy Marine said the ship had around 4,900 containers on board at the time of the latest accident. Company executives were traveling to the site to assess the situation.

--With assistance from Serene Cheong, Angus Whitley, Natalie Choy and Alex Longley.

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Image source: Getty Images

SNAP food benefits help millions of families keep food on the table. Indeed, the Center for Budget Policy and Priorities (CBPP) says SNAP is the nation's most effective tool in combating hunger. But it can only be effective if people get the money they're entitled to. And unfortunately, some states have huge backlogs of applications to get through.

Delays when you're waiting to hear back about a SNAP application can be beyond frustrating and stressful. That's why USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack recently wrote to 47 states and territories, urging them to improve their SNAP systems. Five states stood out for having the longest delays:

Washington D.C. North Dakota New York Florida New Mexico

SNAP applications are most delayed in these states

When you apply or renew your SNAP food benefits, the idea is that you get an answer within 30 days. If you are in urgent need, you may qualify for expedited processing with a seven-day turnaround. The USDA wants states to process 95% of applications within these timeframes. Worryingly, only a limited number of states are meeting this target.

According to Secretary Vilsack's letters, the following states are most behind:

State % of applications processed within timeframe Washington D.C. 43.47% North Dakota 55.68% New York 64.95% Florida 66.37% New Mexico 72.81%

Data source: USDA.gov

It's one thing to talk about statistics, but these numbers have a real impact on people's lives and bank account balances. The CBPP estimates the average benefit for a four person household is $713, while the maximum is $973. That means some families are missing out on hundreds of dollars a week because of administrative delays.

What to do if your SNAP application is delayed

If you're waiting to hear back about a SNAP application or renewal, you're not alone. Sadly, many people are in similar situations. Don't give up. What's important is to find ways to feed your household while you wait for an answer.

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If you can find any short-term financial boosts, don't wait. For example, perhaps you have unused cash back app bonuses or unused items you might be able to sell online. It's not an ideal scenario, but it's better than going hungry.

Here are some other steps you can take:

Look for local food programs: There are food pantries and soup kitchens all over America that can give you dry and frozen goods, bread, fresh produce, and even a hot meal. You may need to show some form of ID, but -- unlike SNAP -- there's no paperwork or income requirements. Check out what days different local pantries are open and be prepared to arrive early.

Look for free legal assistance: The National Center for Law and Economic Justice has sued in Alaska, Missouri, Georgia, and Connecticut over SNAP delays or other systemic issues. Reach out to the organization to learn about your rights and what might be done in your state.

Make some noise: Keep calling, emailing, and writing to your local SNAP office. Be polite, but don't be afraid to speak up. You could also write to your local politicians. One SNAP recipient told Marketplace she got an answer after contacting her local senators.

See if you qualify for other benefits: If you're able to get help with any other parts of your life, it could free up cash for food. Go to www.benefits.gov to find out if there are other forms of financial assistance you might be able to claim. United Way (call 211) is another valuable source of information.

Prioritize essential bills: If you've kept your household budget afloat through the rising prices and economic difficulties of recent years, you're likely already an expert at juggling bills. All the same, focus on essentials such as housing, food, and utilities. You might also consider calling some of your creditors to see if you can temporarily delay other payments to give your personal finances some breathing room.

Some people have also turned to friends and family for financial help. If you go this route, bear in mind that your SNAP payments won't be backdated to cover the processing delay. If you borrow money or delay other bills to tide yourself over, you won't get a lump sum of additional money you can use to pay back what you owe.

Bottom line

Slow SNAP paperwork processing means Americans who are eligible for food assistance are not getting the support they need. If you live in a state that's behind with its application processing, look for local support in the form of charities and food pantries. Not only might they stop you and your household from going hungry, but they may also help you get your SNAP payments more quickly.

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We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Emma Newbery has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Target. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

SNAP Applications Are Slowest in These 5 States was originally published by The Motley Fool
MILAN (Reuters) - Stellantis, the maker of Fiat cars, on Wednesday signed further deals with unions in Italy for voluntary lay-offs, meaning the automaker could cut its workforce by a total of over 3,000 roles in the country.

New deals were reached on Wednesday for over 1,000 lay-offs at facilities in Italy, including Melfi, Pomigliano d'Arco and Termoli, both for line workers and other functions, the FIOM union said in a statement, although it has not itself signed the agreements.

The cuts are being driven in part by the transition to cleaner energy in the industry.

They add to similar deals announced on Tuesday for Stellantis operations in the city of Turin, with as many as over 1,500 voluntary layoffs, and for the engine making facility in Pratola Serra, with 100 additional jobs involved.

A deal has not yet been signed for the Cassino plant, another large Stellantis assembly facility in Italy.

The company has proposed 850 voluntary redundancies for that site, FIOM had said on Tuesday, but a final deal with unions is expected to settle on a lower figure. Another agreement is expected to cover the Atessa van making plant in central Italy.

A spokesman for Stellantis confirmed the new deals signed on Wednesday, under a framework agreed with unions last week.

"They are part of the initiatives implemented by Stellantis to address the effects of the ongoing energy and technology transition process ... including on employment," the spokesman said.

They are on a strictly voluntary basis and mostly aimed at employees close to retirement age or willing to take new professional opportunities, the spokesman reiterated.

Stellantis employs about 43,000 people in Italy, including about 15,000 in the area of Turin, in Italy's north-west, the historic home of Fiat, which merged with Peugeot-maker PSA to create Stellantis.

Voluntary redundancy packages have been the main tool used by Stellantis to cut its workforce in Italy, which amounted to around 55,000 people when the group was formed in early 2021.

The carmaker, which on Wednesday reiterated Italy had a central role to play in its global operations, is in talks with the Italian government on conditions allowing it to boost its annual output in the country to one million vehicles, from about 750,000 last year.

(Reporting by Giulio Piovaccari; Editing by Keith Weir)
TAMPA  Two years after the release of a monthslong investigation that found Orlando Gudes made a litany of sexual and crude comments to his former aide while he was a Tampa City Council member, he is seeking more than $45,000 to pay his legal expenses from defending himself.

Thats because while the investigation  conducted by a private law firm at the citys direction and on taxpayers dime  found 18 of her allegations to be credible, the lawsuit the aide subsequently filed against Gudes was dismissed.

Now, he wants the city to cover his legal defense bill.

On Thursday, the Tampa City Council will consider his request, resurfacing a tumultuous chapter in Tampa politics that portrayed City Hall as a place rife with dysfunction.

Under Florida law, public officials may be entitled to reimbursement at public expense for costs to defend themselves in private litigation if the alleged wrongful conduct arose out of performance of official duties.

The legislative aide sued for defamation and emotional distress. The suit was dismissed in 2022, two months after the city announced a separate $200,000 settlement with her.

The aide failed to meet the extraordinarily high bar for the type of outrageousness required under Florida law, a judge wrote in the order granting the dismissal. The aide filed an appeal, but withdrew it last October when the court ordered her to be identified with her full name, not her initials.

In 2022, Gudes apologized for making comments not appropriate for the workplace but maintained they did not reach the level of sexual harassment.

He directed a request for comment to his attorney, Ryan D. Barack, who said the suits dismissal meant the city was legally obligated to reimburse him.

A retired Tampa police officer, Gudes was first elected to the City Council in 2019, serving East Tampa, downtown, Ybor City and parts of West Tampa. He characterized his aide as an old friend, a description she disputed in court. He has previously said he failed to set new guidelines in their interactions after hiring her.

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In the fall of 2020, the aide approached city Human Resources. She relayed Gudes tendency to bark at her and noted an incident in which he made a lewd comment after stopping by her home to pick up work documents. She decided not to pursue her complaint. The city considered the matter to be resolved that November.

According to her lawsuit, she pleaded with Gudes: You should help me get another job because Im having a hard time, and it is unfair to you that you feel you cant be yourself.

He refused, according to court records, and she continued in her role, hopeful things would get better.

In the summer of 2021, the city rekindled the investigation, with officials reaching out to her twice while she was on an extended absence. She served Mr. Gudes in this role until she could not bear it any longer, according to court records. Gudes asked that she be relocated and she left the position that August.

The next month, the city hired the firm Trenam Law to investigate her accusations. The resulting 60-page report found Gudes created a hostile work environment. He made a series of crude and sexual comments toward her, her teenage daughter and other women, including Mayor Jane Castor.

The reports March 2022 release came as the council was already wrangling turmoil: That month, John Dingfelder resigned his council seat over alleged violations of public records law. The events posed a stark contrast between Tampas shiny post-pandemic reputation, flush with new residents and new developments, and the inner workings of a local government mired in dispute.

Some, including Gudes, questioned if the city was playing politics with his aides allegations, given his occasional criticism of the mayor.

Fellow council member Luis Viera, who remains on the board and will vote on his reimbursement request, said Gudes should have resigned his chairmanship. He subsequently did. Castor has said she would have fired Gudes if she could.

Gudes lawyer contested the investigations findings, noting his client denied the most disturbing allegations, including making a comment about the breasts of the aides daughter.

In May 2022, the city announced its settlement for the aide. Nobody should have experienced the emotional turmoil and pain that you suffered, the mayor wrote in a letter to the former aide.

That same month, the aide and her daughter sued Gudes. Barack filed to dismiss, arguing the suit was filled with superfluous facts, and highly subjective characterizations.

The court granted his motion in October 2022, dismissing her defamation claim with prejudice on the grounds that public officials are shielded for comments made while performing their official duties.

Though Gudes comment to the aides daughter about her body, if true, was inappropriate, offensive, hurtful, and frankly very strange, Circuit Judge Anne-Leigh Gaylord Moe wrote, it did not meet the extraordinarily high bar that it amounted to intentional infliction of emotional distress.

As for Gudes alleged comments toward the aide, those too did not meet the bar. (The aide has not alleged any sexual advances, requests for sex or touching by Gudes.) That claim was dismissed without prejudice, allowing the aide to refile amendments.

But a judge ordered she needed to use by her full name. Shortly after, she voluntarily dismissed the appeal. Her attorney, Ethan Loeb, did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday.

Gudes told the Times he would not be attending Thursdays meeting.

He lost his seat last spring to educator and political newcomer Gwen Henderson. She is the former aides sister.

Editors note: This story has been updated to clarify that Guido Maniscalco said that fellow Tampa City Council member Orlando Gudes should relinquish his chairmanship on the board in 2022 in light of hostile workplace allegations against him. An earlier version of this story misstated his position.
Vancouver, BC --News Direct-- MarketJar

Source: Freepik

Despite its significant potential, Colombias energy sector is heading towards a major natural gas shortage by next year.

The oil and gas market is the key to Colombias national revenue, accounting for roughly 10% of GDP and 20% of exports. However, decreasing onshore production, delayed start-up of new offshore discoveries and President Gustavo Petro's focus on renewable energy are creating ongoing challenges in the sector.

This shortage is compounded by the challenges caused by El Nino and declining oil and natural gas reserves, as Colombia strives to maintain its position in the global energy market. El Nino has reduced hydropower generation in Colombia, increasing reliance on natural gas for electricity and boosting demand amid a tight supply.

By 2025, Colombia's natural gas supply will fall short of demand by 17% according to state-owned oil producer Ecopetrol SA. Whats more, Colombia's proven oil and natural gas reserves can last only around seven more years at the current extraction rate.

While recent gas discoveries offer some hope, Colombia is still grappling with the challenge of declining reserves and struggling production. In response, Colombia's state-run oil company, Ecopetrol, plans to invest up to $6.7 billion in 2024 to boost exploration and production activities, as well as developing new technologies to improve efficiency and sustainability in the sector.

Rod Lewis, founder of Lewis Energy Group and self-made billionaire, sees major potential in Colombias natural gas market and in Latin America, in general.

In the early 2000s, Lewis established a private subsidiary named Lewis Energy Colombia, which has operated in Colombia for 17+ years, with a significant runway ahead to grow and help meet the growing natural gas demand.

But to realize its full potential, it needed a dedicated and experienced management team, which is where the newly listed TSXVs LNG Energy Group Corp. (TSXV:LNGE) (OTCQB:LNGNF) (FRA:E26) comes in.

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LNG Energy Group acquired Lewis Energy Colombia, Inc. in August of 2023 and went public on the TSXV the following month on September 12, 2023. Its management and board of directors bring together a combination of financial, legal and operational experience to grow the business rapidly and capitalize on the Latin American energy opportunities identified by Rod Lewis. He remains the largest investor in LNG Energy Group, which speaks volumes about his commitment to Colombia, Latin America and the team selected to drive business value.

LNG Energy Group Targets Ambitious Growth in 2024, Outlines Robust Production and Financial Goals

After a year focused on strategic acquisitions and financial structuring, particularly with the successful acquisition of Lewis Energy Colombia, LNG Energy Group Corp. (TSXV:LNGE) (OTCQB:LNGNF) (FRA:E26) is now turning its focus towards enhancing its portfolio of producing wells.

LNG Energy recently announced its 2024 production and capital guidance, signaling a promising year ahead with significant operational and financial milestones.

The company expects to achieve a gross production rate of between 40 million cubic feet equivalent per day (MMcfe/d) and 44 MMcfe/d in 2024, which is anticipated to generate an EBITDA of between US$33 million and US$39 million, assuming an average gas price of US$7.50 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf).

LNG Energy Group has identified more than 20 prospects that hold over 1 trillion cubic feet of prospective resources1 and with an exploration and development budget of $10-$12 million, the company is planning a five to six well work-over campaign and drilling one development well and two to four exploration wells in 2024.

These efforts are expected to significantly boost production by up to 15% year-over-year to 22 MMcfe/d net.

LNG Energy Group also plans to capitalize on take-or-pay contracts already in place, which have a locked-in weighted average natural gas sales price of $7.50 per thousand cubic feet ($/Mcf) for a volume of 18.1 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d). Operating netback is anticipated to be between $5.40 and $5.50/Mcfe.

These contracts are particularly significant, considering Colombias soaring gas prices which are three times higher than the Henry Hub benchmark and AECO prices. LNG Energy Group's ability to secure prices averaging US$8.40/Mcf, and expecting US$7.50/Mcf for 2024 represents a substantial premium to US natural gas prices and underscore the competitive edge these contracts offer.

LNG Energy Group Corp. (TSXV:LNGE) (OTCQB:LNGNF) (FRA:E26) also recently announced its 2023 year-end reserves evaluation results, which revealed a notable 26% increase in the before-tax NPV10 value of its Proved plus Probable reserves to US$306 million, or C$2.67 per share.

The value of its Proved (1P) reserves reached US$171 million (C$1.49 per share), while its Proved plus Probable plus Possible (3P) reserves increased to US$577 million (C$5.04 per share).

By the end of 2023, the companys 1P reserves had a reserve life index of 7.9 years, and its 2P reserves had a reserve life index of 14.3 years. Additionally, over the last three years, LNG Energy has maintained a net reserves replacement ratio of 193% on a 1P basis and 336% on a 2P basis, indicating strong reserve growth and sustainability prospects. The company estimates it can produce at its current rate for nearly 8 years with its proven reserves and over 14 years with its proven and probable reserves.

The current market price of the Companys common shares represents a significant discount to the NPV10 for 1P reserves which is C$1.49 per share, said Pablo Navarro, LNG Energys Chairman and CEO. The Company has a reserves life index of 7.9 years on a 1P basis and a net reserves replacement ratio of 193% on a 1P basis. These reserves are located on acreage that represent less than 2% of our total acreage and we look forward to launching our 2024 activity set.

With over 40 years of experience in natural gas and more than 17 years of operations in Colombia, LNG Energy Group understands how to grow in international jurisdictions and is well-positioned to lead the countrys transition.

Click here to learn more about LNG Energy Group Corp. (TSXV:LNGE) (OTCQB:LNGNF) (FRA:E26).

[1] https://cdn-ceo-ca.s3.amazonaws.com/1iitanp-Canaccord%20Initiating%20Report.pdf

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6) This document contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, (collectively, forward-looking statements), which reflect management's expectations regarding LNG Energy Group Corp.s future growth, future business plans and opportunities, expected activities, and other statements about future events, results or performance. Wherever possible, words such as predicts, projects, targets, plans, expects, does not expect, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, anticipate or does not anticipate, believe, intend and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative or grammatical variation thereof or other variations thereof, or comparable terminology have been used to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to: (a) revenue generating potential with respect to LNG Energy Group Corp.s industry; (b) market opportunity; (c) LNG Energy Group Corp.s business plans and strategies; (d) services that LNG Energy Group Corp. intends to offer; (e) LNG Energy Group Corp.s milestone projections and targets; (f) LNG Energy Group Corp.s expectations regarding receipt of approval for regulatory applications; (g) LNG Energy Group Corp.s intentions to expand into other jurisdictions including the timeline expectations relating to those expansion plans; and (h) LNG Energy Group Corp.s expectations with regarding its ability to deliver shareholder value. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management in light of managements experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, as of the date of this document including, without limitation, assumptions about: (a) the ability to raise any necessary additional capital on reasonable terms to execute LNG Energy Group Corp.s business plan; (b) that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; (c) LNG Energy Group Corp.s ability to procure equipment and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; (d) LNG Energy Group Corp.s ability to enter into contractual arrangements with additional parties; (e) the accuracy of budgeted costs and expenditures; (f) LNG Energy Group Corp.s ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; (g) political and regulatory stability; (h) the receipt of governmental, regulatory and third-party approvals, licenses and permits on favorable terms; (i) changes in applicable legislation; (j) stability in financial and capital markets; and (k) expectations regarding the level of disruption to as a result of CV-19. Such forward-looking information involves a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements of LNG Energy Group Corp. to be materially different from any future plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, without limitation: (a) LNG Energy Group Corp.s operations could be adversely affected by possible future government legislation, policies and controls or by changes in applicable laws and regulations; (b) public health crises such as CV-19 may adversely impact LNG Energy Group Corp.s business; (c) the volatility of global capital markets; (d) political instability and changes to the regulations governing LNG Energy Group Corp.s business operations (e) LNG Energy Group Corp. may be unable to implement its growth strategy; and (f) increased competition.

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If we want to find a potential multi-bagger, often there are underlying trends that can provide clues. In a perfect world, we'd like to see a company investing more capital into its business and ideally the returns earned from that capital are also increasing. Basically this means that a company has profitable initiatives that it can continue to reinvest in, which is a trait of a compounding machine. So on that note, DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad (KLSE:DKSH) looks quite promising in regards to its trends of return on capital.

Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)

Just to clarify if you're unsure, ROCE is a metric for evaluating how much pre-tax income (in percentage terms) a company earns on the capital invested in its business. To calculate this metric for DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad, this is the formula:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.16 = RM174m  (RM3.0b - RM1.9b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2023).

Thus, DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad has an ROCE of 16%. In absolute terms, that's a satisfactory return, but compared to the Trade Distributors industry average of 9.8% it's much better.

Check out our latest analysis for DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad

roce

Above you can see how the current ROCE for DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you're interested, you can view the analysts predictions in our free analyst report for DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad .

The Trend Of ROCE

DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad is displaying some positive trends. The numbers show that in the last five years, the returns generated on capital employed have grown considerably to 16%. The amount of capital employed has increased too, by 73%. So we're very much inspired by what we're seeing at DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad thanks to its ability to profitably reinvest capital.

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On a side note, DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad's current liabilities are still rather high at 64% of total assets. This effectively means that suppliers (or short-term creditors) are funding a large portion of the business, so just be aware that this can introduce some elements of risk. While it's not necessarily a bad thing, it can be beneficial if this ratio is lower.

Our Take On DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad's ROCE

All in all, it's terrific to see that DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad is reaping the rewards from prior investments and is growing its capital base. And with the stock having performed exceptionally well over the last five years, these patterns are being accounted for by investors. With that being said, we still think the promising fundamentals mean the company deserves some further due diligence.

On a final note, we found 2 warning signs for DKSH Holdings (Malaysia) Berhad (1 doesn't sit too well with us) you should be aware of.

For those who like to invest in solid companies, check out this free list of companies with solid balance sheets and high returns on equity.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Even when a business is losing money, it's possible for shareholders to make money if they buy a good business at the right price. Indeed, PharmAust (ASX:PAA) stock is up 249% in the last year, providing strong gains for shareholders. But while history lauds those rare successes, those that fail are often forgotten; who remembers Pets.com?

So notwithstanding the buoyant share price, we think it's well worth asking whether PharmAust's cash burn is too risky. In this report, we will consider the company's annual negative free cash flow, henceforth referring to it as the 'cash burn'. First, we'll determine its cash runway by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves.

See our latest analysis for PharmAust

How Long Is PharmAust's Cash Runway?

A company's cash runway is calculated by dividing its cash hoard by its cash burn. When PharmAust last reported its December 2023 balance sheet in February 2024, it had zero debt and cash worth AU$5.5m. Looking at the last year, the company burnt through AU$1.6m. That means it had a cash runway of about 3.5 years as of December 2023. A runway of this length affords the company the time and space it needs to develop the business. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below.

How Well Is PharmAust Growing?

It was quite stunning to see that PharmAust increased its cash burn by 295% over the last year. While that certainly gives us pause for thought, we take a lot of comfort in the strong annual revenue growth of 66%. Considering both these factors, we're not particularly excited by its growth profile. In reality, this article only makes a short study of the company's growth data. You can take a look at how PharmAust is growing revenue over time by checking this visualization of past revenue growth.

How Hard Would It Be For PharmAust To Raise More Cash For Growth?

While PharmAust seems to be in a decent position, we reckon it is still worth thinking about how easily it could raise more cash, if that proved desirable. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. One of the main advantages held by publicly listed companies is that they can sell shares to investors to raise cash and fund growth. By looking at a company's cash burn relative to its market capitalisation, we gain insight on how much shareholders would be diluted if the company needed to raise enough cash to cover another year's cash burn.

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PharmAust has a market capitalisation of AU$131m and burnt through AU$1.6m last year, which is 1.2% of the company's market value. That means it could easily issue a few shares to fund more growth, and might well be in a position to borrow cheaply.

So, Should We Worry About PharmAust's Cash Burn?

It may already be apparent to you that we're relatively comfortable with the way PharmAust is burning through its cash. In particular, we think its revenue growth stands out as evidence that the company is well on top of its spending. Although we do find its increasing cash burn to be a bit of a negative, once we consider the other metrics mentioned in this article together, the overall picture is one we are comfortable with. Looking at all the measures in this article, together, we're not worried about its rate of cash burn; the company seems well on top of its medium-term spending needs. On another note, PharmAust has 5 warning signs (and 2 which don't sit too well with us) we think you should know about.

If you would prefer to check out another company with better fundamentals, then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt or this list of stocks which are all forecast to grow.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
URAWA, Japan (AP)  One Japanese creation grabbing attention on the Oscars red carpet wasn't a movie: the kitsch shoes that seemed to be clenched in Godzilla's claw.

They were the work of Ryosuke Matsui, who recently described his joy at seeing Godzilla Minus One director Takashi Yamazaki and his Shirogumi special-effects team walk the red carpet and win the visual effects Oscar, all while wearing his shoes.

The director loves my shoes. He calls them his uniform, Matsui told The Associated Press in an interview.

At 35 with a fashion career that's barely a decade old, Matsui heads his own brand called Hazama, which means the space-in-between in Japanese.

A small business with just six employees, Hazama offers girlie outfits with fluffy skirts, as well as Gothic themes, kimono and sweaters in gradient colors, jackets with repetitive motifs evocative of Andy Warhol, sofas and coffee tables, and, of course, the shoes with the crazy heels.

One pair has a pistol trigger you can really pull though without any bullets, while another looks like its stuck in an aliens blood-red teeth.

Dark fantasy is what Matsui calls his motifs. His imaginary world is filled with odd creatures like witches, scary penguins and iridescent polar bears, where objects suddenly melt, a face might get replaced by a giant rose, or a horrific hand grabs your heel from underground.

His brands spaces in-between are the filters through which Matsui sees and expresses his mesmerizing stories of the beginnings of time, inhabited by the people hes concocted. He would love to have his own cafe or work on an animation project.

Of course, cool people look great, no matter what they wear, but clothes can change the way you think, how you relate to people around you, work as that doorway into building your confidence, he said.

Matsui's no-nonsense friendly attitude defies his demure first impression. Sitting amid mounds of boxes and packages of clothing at his office on the outskirts of Tokyo, he was wearing a Hazama-designed hoodie with rainbow-tinged fangs of an aurora shark for studs, with torn Yves Saint Laurent jeans and Nike sneakers. He said he wasn't wearing his Godzilla shoes because he was working.

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The Godzilla shoes originated as a special order from the films producer for the Japan premiere in October last year. Their stealing the show at the recent Academy Awards ceremony wasnt even in the script then.

It took Matsui about a year to finish the initial three designs, the 75,000 yen (about $500) red pumps for actress Minami Hamabe, the 88,000 yen ($600) shoes for Yamazaki, and boots decorated with jagged scales, priced at 105,500 yen ($700), for Ryunosuke Kamiki, the movies co-star alongside Godzilla.

The entire first batch of several hundred already sold out. Plans are underway to produce more, perhaps in different colors, like gold in homage of the Oscar statue.

Interest has been huge, according to Matsui. But, in theory, everyone whos got their hearts set on a Godzilla shoe should be able to get one, eventually.

Growing up in a loving family that sent him to piano and swimming lessons and juku cram schools, Matsui is a graduate of the prestigious Keio University and could have easily become a successful salaryman like other young Japanese men.

But he didnt want to part with his then-blond hair.

Although he has always respected Yohji Yamamoto, he purposely pursued color and fabric texture, instead of Yamamotos focus on black and stark lines.

When asked about his global ambitions, Matsui acknowledged he is quite happy working in Japan. His dream is surprisingly local: to create the fashion for Bump of Chicken, a Japanese rock band.

Besides, hes afraid of flying.

___

Yuri Kageyama is on X: https://twitter.com/yurikageyama
Lets talk about stock picking. Its a bit like going to an orchard: if you get there too late, the low-hanging fruit is all gone, and youll have to work harder to find the best pieces. Orcharders have ladders and pruning hooks to make the job easier; retail investors can turn to the Smart Score.

The Smart Score uses a combination of AI and natural language processing, through an algorithm by TipRanks, to gather and collate the mountain of raw data tossed up by the regular daily activity of the stock market  and then it compares every stock to the data, using the collected information and the analysis results to give each stock a simple score.

The score is set on a scale of 1 to 10, and the stock analysis is based on a comparison to a set of factors that are known as sound predictors of future share outperformance. A Perfect 10 from the Smart Score indicates a stock that is likely to show strong gains going forward.

Then those Perfect 10s are also getting love from the Streets analysts, which is a clear sign of stocks that are sending a bullish signal  and investors should pay attention. So, lets do that; here are the details of 3 stocks that have earned the Perfect 10, and have recent Buy ratings from the professional stock watchers.

LiveRamp Holdings (RAMP)

The first stock on our list is LiveRamp, a tech firm based in San Francisco and excelling in data enablement. LiveRamps platform allows its enterprise customer base to make their data accessible, usable, and secure; in short, the company offers data solutions that are customizable and scalable. Its a necessary niche, and has found acceptance from numerous big-name firms. LiveRamps customers include such giants as Google, Walmart, Marriott, Hulu, and Office Depot.

At the user level, LiveRamp gives its customers a platform capable of connecting devices and people with data across the digital and real worlds. The result: faster integration, more efficient workspaces, and improvements in digital security.

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The companys strong product has led to some solid business numbers. LiveRamp reported 895 direct subscription customers at the end of fiscal 3Q24  the quarter ending on December 31, 2023  and of those, 105 have subscription contracts worth $1 million or more in annual revenue. The companys total subscription revenue for the quarter was up by 5% year-over-year, reaching $132 million.

This was one part of the companys total revenue for the quarter, which came to $174 million, representing a 10% year-over-year gain and exceeding the forecast by $2.15 million. The company realized a 29% year-over-year increase in marketing and other revenue, reaching $42 million in the period. At the bottom line, LiveRamps non-GAAP earnings per share were 47 cents, 7 cents better than had been expected. Looking at the companys share performance, we see that RAMP has risen by more than 58% over the past 12 months, but has been slipping since the early-February earnings release and is down more than 10% year-to-date.

For Evercore analyst Kirk Materne, this stock represents a turnaround story after some recent slowdowns. He writes of the company and its shares, We continue to believe that following a material (largely macro-induced) slowdown in growth in 2023, the company is well positioned to reaccelerate growth in 2024 (FY25) and beyond as the digital ad environment continues to improve, and LiveRamp benefits from being able to deliver identity, activation, addressability, and measurement at scale. The acquisition of Habu (announced in January) rounds out the clean room capabilities of the company, adding increased integrations with the public cloud providers (namely Azure and Databricks with the addition of Habu) as well as expanding measurability in walled gardens, which account for ~3/4 of non-search digital advertising.

Looking ahead, the analyst adds some explanation on just why he thinks these shares are going to climb higher, saying, Finally, the company is working towards a rule of 40 operating profile, expanding operating margins by ~500bps in FY24 (as of the most recent guide) and expects similar expansion in FY25. The companys margin expansion is further augmented by share repurchases ($60-80mn expected in FY24). Given these improving fundamental factors and solid initial F3Q (Dec.) results, we view the current valuation of ~3x EV/CY25 as leaving some room for upside.

For Materne, this all adds up to an Outperform (Buy) rating, and his $50 price target implies the shares will gain 49% in the 12 months ahead. (To watch Maternes track record, click here)

Overall, LiveRamp holds a Strong Buy consensus rating, based on 6 unanimously positive analyst reviews. The shares are trading for $33.50 and their $48.75 average price target suggests an upside of 45.5% on the one-year horizon. (See LiveRamp stock forecast)

BridgeBio Pharma (BBIO)

For the second stock on our list, well shift over to the biomedical research field, where BridgeBio Pharma focuses on developing new treatments for genetic diseases with clear genetic drivers. These are conditions that are known to be genetically linked  and known to be caused by a single genetic mutation for each disease. Per BridgeBio, there are more than 8,000 disease conditions that meet this description, affecting millions of patients. Thats a huge potential customer base for a biopharmaceutical researcher, especially when we realize that there are fewer than 50 therapeutic agents approved by the FDA in this area.

BridgeBio is working to expand this area of treatment and has more than 15 active research tracks in its pipeline, targeting more than 20 disease conditions. The most advanced drug candidate, acoramidis, is a potential treatment for transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM). The companys new drug application (NDA) for this candidate has been accepted for review by the FDA, with the PDUFA date set for November 29, 2024. In addition, the European Medicines Agency has also accepted the companys MAA (Marketing Authorization Application) for acoramidis.

The company has also recently released data from the Japanese Phase 3 human clinical trial of the drug. The study, which focused on Japanese ATTR-CM patients, showed positive results  particularly, no patient mortality over a 30-month period.

BridgeBio generates most of its revenue through licensing agreements. That revenue track is facing pressure due to an ongoing legal suit involving Pfizer. Pfizer is undertaking a defense of its own ATTR-CM drug against generic copies; if Pfizer is successful, it will protect its intellectual property  and open up the field to BridgeBio, which will then face reduced competition.

When we look at the analysts, we find Danielle Brill, of Raymond James, taking a bullish stance on this company, based mainly on the strength of acoramidis. She writes, We believe oral TTR-stabilizers (BBIOs acoramidis/ PFEs tafamidis) will remain as the gold-standard first-line therapy for patients with ATTR-CM. While there was some concern that the silencers (i.e., ALNYs vutrisiran) might have a strong case for use ahead of the stabilizers, that now seems highly unlikely given the recent setback and change of stats plans for ALNYs Ph 3 HELIOS-B trial.

Brill sees the IP lawsuits as a potential booster, too, and also outlines the financial potential of the ATTR-CM market for BridgeBio: There is still an IP overhang on BBIO, as PFE continues to litigate with generic filers  but we are cautiously optimistic that PFEs patent estate will be protected until 2035. As the lawsuit progresses, there have been positive signs that PFE will be successful in defending their IP. If PFEs patent holds, we think BBIO could capture ~20% of the projected $15B TAM, which translates to ~$3B in peak sales. Given the uncertainty, our model reflects risk adjusted peak net sales of ~$1.6B.

The bottom line for Brill is an Outperform (Buy) rating on the shares, along with a price target of $45 that indicates her confidence in a 51% one-year upside potential. (To watch Brills track record, click here)

The Strong Buy consensus rating on BBIO shares is based on 12 recent analyst reviews, including 11 Buys and 1 Hold. The average price target, $50.73, and the $29.76 trading price, together suggest a 12-month gain of 70.5%. (See BBIO stock forecast)

IDEAYA Biosciences (IDYA)

Well wrap up with another biotech company in the biopharmaceutical field. IDEAYA is a precision medicine company, with a pipeline of drug candidates that have the potential to become first-in-class or best-in-class therapeutic agents. The companys pipeline is made up of small molecule compounds and targets various cancers. IDEAYA uses molecular diagnosis methods to screen its patient populations, allowing for the fine targeting of synthetic therapeutic agents tested in clinical trials.

The most advanced products in those clinical trials are darovasertip, also called IDE196. It is a PKS inhibitor targeting genetically-defined cancers based on GNAQ or GNA11 mutations. IDE397 has wide applications as it is an MAT2A inhibitor, targeting cancer tumors that include an MTAP gene deletion  a class that includes some 15% of solid tumors. Finally, IDE161 is a PARG inhibitor being studied for efficacy against tumors with HRD, or homologous recombination deficiency.

Darovasertip is the subject of multiple clinical trials, with the most recent positive results coming from its trial as a combo therapy with crizotinib. In this trial, it showed evidence of superior clinical efficacy in any-line and first-line MUM (metastatic uveal melanoma) patients compared to standard of care. The company has recently expanded its Phase 2 trial of darovasertip in combo with crizotinib against GNAQ/11 metastatic cutaneous melanoma. On the IDE397 track, the company has set up a collaboration with Gilead to study the IDE397-trodelvy combo in a clinical study for the treatment of MTAP bladder cancer.

The companys most recent development was the announcement earlier this month of a clinical collaboration with Merck to evaluate IDE161 in combination with Keytruda as a treatment for patients with MSI-high and MSS endometrial cancer. IDEAYA will sponsor the clinical trials based on this collaboration.

This stock caught the eye of Justin Zelin, a 5-star analyst from BTIG. Zelin is bullish on IDYAs high-quality pipeline, and writes of the company, Lead drug daroversitib has demonstrated encouraging clinical data in the untapped HLA-A2(-) uveal melanoma pt population, who are ineligible for tx with Immunocores KIMMTRAK. We view positively IDYAs MAT2A program, IDE397, as having a differentiated approach towards MTAP-deleted tumors, and we will keenly follow synergistic data from the PRMT5i combination program, which we believe could potentially be best-in-class. We believe the early pipeline is underappreciated and see value-creation opportunities on the generation of additional de-risking POC data for IDE161 and Werner helicase programs.

Quantifying his stance, Zelin rates the stock as a Buy, with a $55 price target implying a 29% increase in share price in the coming year. (To watch Zelins track record, click here)

This is a stock with a unanimously positive Strong Buy consensus rating, based on 10 analyst reviews. The shares are trading for $42.51 and their $52.90 average target price points toward a 24.5% upside potential over the next year. (See IDYA stock forecast)

To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.
More than two years after announcing the merger that would take it public, Trump Media  the parent company to Donald Trumps social media platform Truth Social  hit the stock market Tuesday under the ticker DJT.

Investors went wild.

The stock was bolstered by Trump supporters and mom-and-pop investors looking to make a quick buck on the stocks soaring price. At one point during its first day, the price of Trump Media gained nearly 60%, and it seesawed enough to make the Nasdaq stock exchange temporarily pause trading.

Meme stocks also gained traction as a way to go against the hedge funds that had been shorting, or betting against, companies like GameStop. Other investors were simply in it to make money. But no matter the incentives for buying in, experts have warned about risks associated with these volatile bets.

Now, much like these "meme" stocks, experts say they expect a tumultuous journey for Trump Media.

If you're an investor looking for stable returns, I would not touch this with a 10-foot pole, said Derek Horstmeyer, a finance professor at George Mason University in Virginia who specializes in corporate finance.

This photo illustration shows an image of former President Donald Trump reflected in a phone screen that is displaying the Truth Social app.

In it for the money

Mitchell Standley bought his first shares in Digital World Acquisition  the public shell company that merged with Trump Media to take it public  back in early 2022.

Standley, 39, of Chandler, Arizona, had been active in the Wall Street Bets subreddit for a few months and saw an opportunity to make a profit off of the stock given the former presidents fanbase.

I'd seen how relentless his followers are, and I thought I would take a shot. And I ended up making a ton of money, he said.

Mitchell Standley bought his first shares in Digital World Acquisition  the public shell company that merged with Trump Media to take it public  back in early 2022.

He timed his bet right; a $750 investment made him about $4,500 by the time he pulled out just four hours later.

When Digital Worlds stock price started to climb ahead of its merger with Trump Media, Standley decided to try his luck with the stock once again.

He used a more advanced investing tactic, purchasing two "call options" with the company last week: one for $100, and another for a little over $160. Both were easy to sell off due to the stock's high demand, he said, and he walked away with more than $3,000 in profit. (A call option gives an investor the right, but not the obligation to purchase a stock at a specific price.)

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DJT had a good first day: Trump's Truth Social media stock price saw rapid rise

Standley  a registered independent  said he felt no political motivations for investing with Trump's social media company.

I'm playing the market for the money and not for the politics. But I certainly have an eye on the politics because I see how staunch his followers are, he said. So when I see something like this, it's kind of a no-brainer.

Online forums on sites like Reddit are filled with people like Standley, who have no plans to hold their investments in Truth Social.

We know from the meme stock craze, (that) whenever there's a bubble, it tends to attract a lot of other more rational investors who are just trying to realize the big gain, even though they have no serious interest in the company in the long run, said Albert Choi, a University of Michigan law professor.

Investing to support Trump

Other Trump Media investors, like Teri Lynn Roberson, couldnt care less about potential earnings.

Roberson, 52, from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex in Texas, said she purchased five shares of Trump Media at about $72 a pop, right around the stock prices Monday peak.

But she called the investment all fun and games. For her, its more about sending a message than anything else.

Teri Lyss Roberson said she bought shares for Trump Media, Truth Social's parent company, to show support for Donald Trump.

Its mainly to support Trump and his legal battles. Or making a statement, she said. Its more just to show that people are supporting him.

Roberson said the only other time shes tried her hand at investing was back in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when the cruise industry was at a standstill. She purchased shares of Royal Caribbeans stock as a show of support.

Roberson said shes not worried if her Trump Media shares dont yield a return. She plans to hold onto them  at least until the 2024 presidential election is over  and just see where it goes from there.

That sort of investing helped Trump Media end Tuesday with a market value of nearly $8 billion.

I do not think that the fundamentals of the company justify this valuation, said Usha Rodrigues, a professor at the University of Georgia's School of Law who specializes in corporate finance and securities law. There were definitely a lot of investors who were interested in it because they had this opportunity to invest in the Trump brand.

In the first nine months of 2023, Truth Social's parent company made $3.4 million in revenue while losing $49 million, according to filings.

Is Truth Social the next GameStop?

Predicting stock market moves is no easy task, but most experts agree that Trump Media will continue to see volatility.

It's going to be like GameStop, where it goes up, and then it comes crazy down, and then it goes up again, Horstmeyer of George Mason said.

Thats because the stocks performance so far isnt based on traditional metrics  investors are just going to be riding waves of sentiment," he said.

That sort of volatility could pay off for investors like Standley, or even Trump himself, who saw his net worth soar in the aftermath of Trump Medias public launch. The former president was worth roughly $4.5 billion on paper as of Tuesday afternoon, thanks to his roughly 60% stake in the company.

For others, it could lead to losses. The stock has already seen one major dip, falling from about $72 to under $58 in one hour toward the end of the day Tuesday.

Rodrigues of the University of Georgia said that investors "run the risk of losing money" anytime they pump money into a stock that's rising due to other investors' behavior instead of the company's performance.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Truth Social's stock price is up. Who's investing in Trump's platform?
(Bloomberg)  Judson Berkey didnt hold back.

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It was early February and the UBS Group AG banker had WebEx-dialed into a meeting held on the 17th floor of the Japanese Financial Services Agencys building in the Kasumigaseki district of central Tokyo. The closed-door gathering with representatives of the Federal Reserve, the European Central Bank and public officials from around the world was billed as a check-in for regulators to ask key market participants how they were dealing with the growing tapestry of rules and guidelines around transitioning the economy away from high-carbon assets.

What might otherwise have been a staid conference took an unexpected turn as Berkey, group head of engagement and regulatory strategy at UBS, interjected. The finance industry was being asked to align loans, investments and capital-markets portfolios with a global warming trajectory of 1.5C, while the planet may in fact be hurtling toward a 2.8C increase from pre-industrial times, he noted.

The upshot: The worlds biggest banks cant live up to the green regulatory ideal unless they start dumping huge numbers of clients worldwide at a reckless pace and also roil economies in large swathes of the globe that primarily rely on dirty fuels. Faced with that dilemma, many lenders are quietly reeling in their climate ambitions.

Banks are living and lending on planet earth, not planet NGFS, Berkey told the group in an impassioned speech, alluding to the Network for Greening the Financial System, a collection of central bankers that creates model scenarios for how the energy transition may evolve. Details of what transpired at the meeting hosted by the Financial Stability Board  a coordinator of global regulations  came from people who were in the room but asked not to be named discussing private talks. Berkey confirmed his participation, declining to say more.

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The UBS bankers outburst, which got little pushback from those present, exposes the cracks emerging in a multitrillion-dollar transition finance project, and taps into whats rapidly becoming one of the most contentious issues in the global banking industry. In private, senior bankers in sustainable finance divisions in London, New York, Toronto and Paris grumble about unrealistic expectations from regulators, civil society and climate activists around the industrys role in getting the planet to net zero.

The standoff thats brewing is setting the stage for a showdown at the heart of the ESG movement, where environmental, social and governance considerations are being pitted against old-fashioned capitalism.

As the gatekeepers of capital, banks can play a central role as catalysts for cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Private capital will need to cough up the lions share of the $5 trillion to $10 trillion in annual commitments needed to pay for the green transition, and according to hedge fund billionaire Bridgewater Associates founder Ray Dalio, that will only happen if theres a return on the money.

Climate change is an economic externality, and you cant expect a free market to deal with it voluntarily, Adair Turner, who ran Britains financial regulator during the subprime and euro-zone debt crises and is now chair of the Energy Transitions Commission, said in an interview. Most of the transition away from high-carbon activities toward greener business models will be financed by private institutions making, broadly speaking, profit-maximizing decisions, he said.

Banks that had enthusiastically committed to align their entire operations with net zero goals are having second thoughts as the real-world ramifications of acting on those pledges become painfully apparent.

For instance, doing business in the energy sectors of coal-dependent countries like South Africa, Poland and Indonesia would be off limits.

Not only do the commitments make it harder for banks to serve commodities clients like Glencore Plc, but even companies not always associated with heavy carbon footprints are ending up in the crosshairs. Nvidia Corp., the wildly successful tech colossus, has an implied temperature rise of 4C and cosmetics giant L'Oreal SA is at an eye-popping 6C, meaning their business models are currently aligned with a trajectory of devastating global warming, according to data compiled by Morningstar Inc.

Our net zero commitments are about being our clients lead partner and are consciously taken around the idea that we need to be there with our clients and our clients need to succeed, not that we need to hyper select clients in order to get to net zero somehow faster or better, Jonathan Hackett, head of sustainable finance at Bank of Montreal, said in an interview.

Some of the worlds biggest lenders, including Deutsche Bank AG, HSBC Holdings Plc and Bank of America Corp., are adding caveats to their restrictions on financing coal, the planets most-polluting energy source.

BlackRock Inc. Chief Executive Officer Larry Fink says he has stopped using the term ESG and emphasized the worlds largest asset manager's work with energy firms in a letter to investors this week. The firm has scaled back its participation in international climate investing alliances.

In February, a string of financial heavyweights, including JPMorgan Asset Management, Pacific Investment Management Co. and State Street Global Advisors, withdrew from Climate Action 100+, the worlds largest investor group formed to fight global warming. Lenders, including HSBC, decided to withdraw applications to get their climate goals certified by the United Nations-backed Science Based Targets initiative. Other such voluntary climate alliances have been shaken by similar walkouts of late.

Spokespeople for the firms said the moves didnt reflect a reduced commitment to climate finance. Behind the scenes, people close to the decisions to exit point to the inconvenience of continued membership, spanning everything from the risk of being sued by anti-ESG agitators in the US  especially in the event former President Donald Trump returns to the White House  to the growing mountain of paperwork associated with upholding climate targets. Theres also lost revenue.

For banks with substantial capital markets businesses, like those competing with the JPMorgans of the world, its fee income thats on the line here, said James Vaccaro, Chief Catalyst at Climate Safe Lending Network, a group that helps the finance industry figure out how to cut its carbon footprint. Ditching clients off track from 1.5C means losing major lines of revenue.

When climate consciousness erupted onto the financial stage in 2021 at the so-called COP26 summit in Glasgow, major western banks clamorously committed to reduce their carbon footprints. Financed emissions  those that arise from lending and investing  would fall in line with a pathway to achieve net zero by 2050, they pledged. In tandem, most of them promised to pour a big chunk of money  anywhere between $750 billion and $2.5 trillion per bank  into green and sustainable deals by the end of this decade.

But all that was before they had rolled up their sleeves and done the math. Declarations of intent on slashing greenhouse gas emissions over projected what the industry could do, said Adam Matthews, chief responsible investment officer for the Church of England Pensions Board. Theres now a gradual peeling away of flaky members as the penny has dropped that this is much harder than a photo call and press release, he said.

Inside the finance industry, irritation hit a new level after the publication of an ECB paper in January stating that 90% of the euro-zone banks it analyzed are misaligned with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5C. The central bank called this a staggering outcome.

The ECB noted that many banks depend largely on clients in energy-intensive sectors for revenue. It looked at six industries  power, automotive, oil and gas, steel, coal and cement. On average, these exposures amount to 15% of their highest-quality capital, although the ECB cited significant variation among banks. In other words, widespread losses on loans to high-carbon sectors would probably wipe out a large chunk of banks financial reserves.

Defining what can go under the rubric of the green transition remains a work-in-progress, even as lenders including Barclays Plc, BNP Paribas SA and Citigroup Inc. create new investment and corporate banking teams for it.

In some cases, banks are even placing the financing of coal plants under an ESG banner. Lenders are looking for ways to hold on to clients in an array of high-emitting industries spanning cement to shipping and aviation. HSBC has made clear that many clients within these industries will only reach net zero if nascent carbon-reduction technologies can be sufficiently scaled up.

Coal has tended to face the tightest financing restrictions of all fossil fuels, and international packages to help developing countries transition away from coal have struggled to attract western bankers concerned their involvement would breach their climate policies.

Now, some banks are testing the waters.

A January request for proposals from banks to help finance a coal deal linked to one of the so-called Just Energy Transition Partnerships in Indonesia received a strong response, a spokesperson for the Asian Development Bank told Bloomberg. HSBC, Standard Chartered Plc and Bank of America are among lenders that have pitched for the deal that would finance the early closure of the Cirebon-1 coal-fired power station in West Java, Bloomberg has reported. The only way the banks can do that is by expanding their exposure to coal in the medium term.

Cirebon is one of hundreds of coal-fired plants that power homes and industry across Asia. Unlike in the US or Europe, many coal plants in Asia are still just a few years into an estimated lifespan of roughly four decades. Theyre also locked into long-term power agreements and have investors who expect the returns they were promised when they allocated funds to the plants. So shutting them early comes at a significant financial cost.

Getting to net zero in time won't be possible unless we all work together to find ways to finance the credible early retirement of Asia's relatively young coal power assets, even if it looks like our coal-related emissions go up in the short term, said Celine Herweijer, HSBC's chief sustainability officer. This is about avoided real world emissions.

The bank published an updated coal policy in January, which shows it now applies a risk-based approach to coal projects that might otherwise have been excluded. Herweijer said there's work under way in the industry to separately account for coal-related emissions if theyre the result of financing credible early-coal retirement initiatives.

But some global banks and investors say continued ties with coal just isnt worth the risk.

Its a bit of a slippery slope, said Thibaud Clisson, climate lead at BNP Paribas Asset Management. The world needs to get rid of coal as soon as possible, so at this stage, we dont want to take this opportunity to be less strict, he said.

Alice Carr, executive director of public policy at the worlds biggest climate finance coalition, the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero, or GFANZ, says financial institutions dont really want to do these kinds of [early coal retirement] transactions presently because we need the right guardrails and theres a lot of reputational risk if you dont get them right. GFANZ is co-chaired by Mark Carney, who is the chair of Bloomberg Inc.s board and a former Bank of England governor, and Michael R. Bloomberg, the founder of Bloomberg News parent Bloomberg LP.

For Climate Safe Lendings Vaccaro, its how banks go about it thats important. The opportunity to pivot to green financing is big enough to offset some of the lost revenue of dirty clients, but banks are unlikely to seize it if they continue with their doublespeak on both embracing sustainability and maintaining business as usual, he said.

Climate activists are worried. Experience suggests that banks and investors love nothing better than a good policy loophole, said Paddy McCully, senior energy transition analyst at French climate nonprofit Reclaim Finance. If one exists, the chances are high they will pour some money through it.

Meanwhile, investors sticking with carbon-heavy assets say those staying away risk ignoring the real issues in the wider economy.

Many current policies restricting investment in such companies create a bias that hurts emerging markets, according to Diana Guzman, chief sustainability officer at Prudential Plc. Divestment isnt going to be the solution, said Fumitaka Nakahama, group head of global corporate and investment banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc.As they balance the needs of their clients against their green commitments, veterans of global finance say they want regulators to be honest and acknowledge that progress on climate is slow, and that without the right incentives, bankers wont play the role expected of them.

It was always convenient for finance to be projected as the savior on climate, when in reality, finance can only go so far if the enabling policy environment isnt there, according to the Church of England Pensions Boards Matthews.

That was the point UBSs Berkey made during the Tokyo meeting, and according to those who were in the room, when he had finished speaking, everyone could see the wheels turning in the regulators heads.

With assistance from Nicholas Comfort.

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2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Investing in single-family rental properties is considered a lucrative avenue for building wealth and generating passive income.

Single-family rentals provide investors with a tangible asset that can appreciate in value while generating rental income. They also enable investors to diversify their portfolios, spreading risk across different properties and geographic locations, which can help mitigate the impact of local market fluctuations and economic downturns and provide some stability to an investment portfolio.

The average annual three-bedroom gross rental yield is projected to be 7.55% this year, up slightly from an average of 7.39% a year ago. Investment returns for landlords continued to increase, with rents rising faster than home prices in most of the country.

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Rents are rising faster than wages in the majority of the markets surveyed in ATTOM's first-quarter 2024 Single-Family Rental Market report.

"The U.S. home sales market cooled off a good bit last year, with some of the weakest gains over the past decade," ATTOM CEO Rob Barber said. "But that wasn't enough to make home prices affordable for most workers, which likely fed enough demand to push up rents and yields for investors who lease out single-family properties. The fact that so few homes are available for sale in many markets clearly further helped increase rental demand for landlords and boost their bottom lines."

So, where does it make the most sense to invest in single-family rental properties? A recent report from real estate data provider ATTOM found that the highest potential returns can be found in Vero Beach, Florida; St. Louis; Brownsville, Texas; Rochester, New York; and Augusta, Georgia.

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Meanwhile, the lowest rental returns are in San Francisco; San Jose, California; Nashville, Tennessee; and Washington, D.C.

Like any investment, purchasing single-family rental properties requires careful consideration, due diligence and strategic planning. Factors such as location, property management, financing options and market analysis all play critical roles in determining the success of a rental property investment.

Whether you're a first-time investor or a seasoned veteran, understanding the ins and outs of single-family rental investments is key to achieving long-term financial success.

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Collecting passive income from real estate just got a whole lot simpler. A new real estate fund backed by Dara Khosrowshahi gives you instant access to a diversified portfolio of rental properties, and you only need $100 to get started.

Elon Musk is looking to bring thousands of new tech workers to Austin, Texas. Here's how to invest in the city's growth beforehand.

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This article Unlocking Wealth: The Power Of Single-Family Rental Investments originally appeared on Benzinga.com

 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
VolitionRx Limited (AMEX:VNRX) Q4 2023 Earnings Call Transcript March 26, 2024

VolitionRx Limited isn't one of the 30 most popular stocks among hedge funds at the end of the third quarter (see the details here).

Operator: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for standing by. Welcome to VolitionRx Limited Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Earnings Conference Call. During today's presentation, all parties will be in a listen-only mode. Following the presentation, the conference call will be open for questions. [Operator Instructions]. This conference call is being recorded today, March 26, 2024. I would now like to turn the conference over to Louise Batchelor, Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. Please go ahead.

Louise Batchelor: Thank you, and welcome, everyone to today's earnings conference call for VolitionRx Limited. Before we begin, I'd like to remind everyone that some of the information discussed on this conference call will include forward-looking statements covered under the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on our beliefs as well as assumptions we have used based upon information currently available to us. Because these statements reflect our current views concerning future events, these statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Actual future results may vary significantly based on a number of factors that may cause the actual results or events to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these statements.

We have identified various risk factors associated with our operations in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not undertake an obligation to update any forward-looking statements made during the course of this call. I am joined today by Mr. Cameron Reynolds, President and Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Terig Hughes, Group Chief Financial Officer Doctor, Dr. Tom Butera, Chief Executive Officer of our Volition Veterinary Subsidiary and Dr. Andrew Retter, currently Medical Consultant to Volition, which has recently announced due to join Volition n the role of Chief Medical Officer in April 2024. During the call, we will cover Volition's financial and operating results for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year of 2023, along with a discussion of our recent activities and upcoming milestones.

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Following our prepared remarks, we will open the conference call to a question-and-answer session. I'll now turn the call over to Cameron Reynolds. Cameron?

Cameron Reynolds: Thanks Lou, and thank you, everyone, for joining Volition's fourth quarter and full year 2023 earnings call today. We appreciate your time given the busy annual 10-K filing season. We will commence the call with a financial report from our Group Chief Financial Officer, Terig Hughes, before moving on to a prerecorded update from Dr. Tom Butera, Chief Executive Officer of Volition Vet on the rollout of our Nu.Q vet cancer test. And I'm delighted to welcome Dr. Andy Retter to the call to provide an update on the Nu.Q NET and Capture-PCR. As was announced last week, Andy will be joining Volition as our Chief Medical Officer beginning April 1st. Many of you will have heard from Andy previously, but I'd like to formally share his credentials.

Dr. Butera is an intensive care consultant at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust in London, where he has worked as a consultant since 2014 and leads clinical governance in critical care. He specializes in the management of severe respiratory failure, ECMO and thrombosis. Dr. Butera is the only consultant in the UK to hold dual entry on the specialist register in Intensive Care and Hematology and provides national guidance on the management of complex hematology patients in clinical care. He will continue his clinical and research duties at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust after joining Volition. Dr. Butera has worked with Volition in an advisory capacity since January of 2022. To help guide the product development and clinical utility of Nu.Q NET's, a CE-Marked routine blood test to detect disease associated with NETosis, such as sepsis.

The whole team are absolutely delighted to be welcoming Andy more formally into Volition. As Chief Medical Officer, he will be vital to our success, ensuring the needs of the patient are placed at the heart of our research, development and commercialization activities. It's great to have you on board, Andy. And I must say your enthusiasm for our mission and platform really helps us to fully understand the great importance of the work we do. Following Andy's update, I will wrap up with my thoughts and upcoming milestones and discuss our overall strategy going forward. Without further ado, I'll hand you across to Terry for our financial report. Terry?

Terig Hughes: Thanks very much, Cameron, and thank you everyone for joining our earnings call today. I'll now provide a summary of the key financial results for the quarter ended December 31 full year 2023. From a revenue perspective, we recorded revenue of $244,000 for the quarter, a 104% increase over the same period last year. For the full year 2023, we recorded revenue of $775,000 an increase of 153% over the prior year. We believe that these results demonstrate steady progress, but not yet the ramp in revenues that we anticipate. We expect revenues to accelerate in 2024 as several additional distributors come online with our Nu.Q vet cancer test, in particular, Antech and FujiVet who are both about to launch and our Nu.Q discover pipeline continues to grow.

2023 full-year revenue of the Nu.Q Vet cancer test was $475,000 a year-on-year increase of 194%, mainly reflecting sales of reference kits through our agreement with IDEXX. Revenues in Nu.Q discover for 2023 was $300,000, which reflects 107% growth over 2022. Moving on to the balance sheet. We ended the year with cash and cash equivalents of approximately $20.7 million compared with $10.9 million at the end of 2022. Net cash generated from operating activities during the fourth quarter 2023 was approximately $6.4 million and reflected the receipt of $13 million in milestone payments from Heska Corporation in December. For the full year 2023, net cash used in operating activities was $18.1 million, compared to $15.3 million in the prior year.

Net loss for fourth quarter 2023 was $8.8 million, compared to $7.3 million for the fourth quarter 2022 and for the full year, $35.7 million, compared to $30.6 million in 2022. This increase was primarily the result of increased Research & Development expenditures mainly reflecting the cost of our U.S. clinical trials which added $3.1 million to the P&L costs in 2023. To date, various European funding bodies and in particular, Belgian agencies have committed to the company over $21 million in non-dilutive funding in various forms, including cash grants and loans on favorable terms. In the fourth quarter, our Walloon institutional fund and regional government bodies of the Walloon region of Belgium committed additional funding to the company aggregating approximately $5.5 million of which approximately one half was in the form of a loan.

We would like to publicly thank the various government agencies of Belgium for their continued support. We have also initiated efforts with respect to seeking non-dilutive funding in the U.S. Our aim is to fund some of our major programs through either non-dilutive or project financing, which we anticipate could be substantial over the next two years. As mentioned earlier, at the end of fourth quarter, we received $13 million in milestone payments from Heska Corporation, now an Antech company and part of Mars Petcare, one of the largest pet health companies in the world. And so, to recap, we ended the year with cash and cash equivalents of $20.7 million. With that said, I believe that we are well-placed to execute the plans the team have in place for 2024.

And with that, I will pass over to Dr. Tom Butera, CEO of our Volition Veterinary subsidiary. Tom?

Tom Butera: Thanks very much, Terig, and good morning everybody. In 2023, we supplied kits and components for over 58,000 tests, 5 times the number in the prior year. This growth demonstrates solid progress to date and we certainly expect more growth to come as additional companies fully launch our product at home in the United States and around the world. By the end of 2023, the Nu.Q Vet cancer test was available in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, Portugal, Singapore, Taiwan and Italy. 2023 was a breakthrough year for Volition Veterinary gaining such wide distribution and with such respected companies, so kudos to the team and a special thanks to our legal department. We have also learned a great deal, launching and introducing a new product in veterinary medicine, especially early cancer detection in dogs takes a tremendous amount of education to teach veterinarians how to incorporate this early cancer dialogue into their routine wellness visits.

Our Nu.Q test also requires an additional cost to the client, which is part of our educational conversation in teaching doctors how to easily make this part of their wellness office visit Additionally, we are always emphasizing the affordable cost of our test and encouraging doctors to keep the test at very reasonable margins. The fact is clearly related to the very large number of dogs that they will be screened for early cancer detection. All-in-all, I believe our Volition team will look back on 2023 as a proud pivotal moment in the burgeoning field of early canine cancer detection, setting the stage to improve and extend the lives of millions of dogs in the months years to come. We have also launched the Nu.Q test with IDEXX, one of the world's leading veterinary diagnostic companies and now Heska, an Antech company and part of Mars Petcare, another leading veterinary company in completing the exciting tech transfer onto the Heska Element I+ in-house diagnostic platform.

More recently, as you will have seen in an announcement just last week, we have signed a supply agreement with Fujifilm Vet Systems for our Nu.Q Vet Cancer Test in Japan. Indeed, I have prerecorded my update for today's call as I am currently over in Japan with our colleagues from Fuji and Wow! What an incredible event this last week. We were delighted to be deeply engaged with our Fuji colleagues at their veterinary booth located at the World Veterinary Cancer Congress in Tokyo. This event also provided a significant exposure to numerous veterinary cancer specialists from around the world. We believe that Japan is a considerable market opportunity for Volition as we seek to expand our Nu.Q Vet Cancer Test offering in Asia and Fuji is a great partner with us.

Fujifilm Vet Systems as Japan's leading veterinary diagnostic laboratory service with a network of 10 laboratories serving more than 90% of the 12,000 veterinary clinics and hospitals nationwide in Japan. As a reminder, our test is a simple, affordable, easy to use blood-screening test that can be easily integrated into preventive care programs and used alongside other routine blood work during regular wellness visits. We had an incredibly busy time at the Fuji booth and have been excited not only to see the response to the test, but also to hear about the exciting marketing plans Fuji has in place to drive the adoption of Nu.Q. Heather also had the privilege of presenting a poster about the Nu.Q Vet Cancer Test at the Congress. It's been a busy few days and we look forward to working alongside Fujifilm Vet Systems as they roll out our test countrywide across their extensive diagnostic laboratory network.

We are also incredibly excited that the Nu.Q Vet cancer test will soon be available as an in-house diagnostic via Heska and Antech company. We understand preorders are currently being processed and the test will be rolled out fully at their upcoming national sales meeting at the end of this month. Soon veterinarians will have accurate in hospital fast test results in under eight minutes, so that they can discuss findings with pet owners and hopefully develop an action plan before the patient even goes home. Antech is initially pricing the test at $35 to the veterinarian and we really believe that the relatively low cost combined with the effectiveness of our test will help drive adoption of the test not only as a screening test, but also in time as an important monitoring tool for disease progression and remission.

So, to quote Cameron, very exciting times indeed. That's a quick update for me given our packed agenda today. I will now with absolute great pleasure hand over to our incoming Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Andrew Retter. Andy is a fabulous addition to our leadership team. Andy, over to you for an update on Nu.Q NET.

A researcher analyzing blood test results and recording data in a lab notebook.

Andrew Retter: Thank you very much for those kind words, Tom, and good morning, everybody. I'd just like to take a moment to start by thanking Cameron, Jake and the Board of Directors for working with me and inviting me to join the Volition team at such an important time. I've really enjoyed working with Volition for the last two years, and I'm really excited about leaning into and contributing to delivery of our mission purpose in the years to come. We really hope to have an impact to improve the lives and quality of lives of millions of people worldwide. I'd like to update you this morning on some of the significant progress we've made with Nu.Q NET and our new breakthrough cancer detection method, which we now call Capture-PCR.

So first, starting with NETosis and sepsis. Sepsis, as you've heard me say before, is one of the leading of causes of death worldwide with almost 50 million cases annually and around 11 million deaths. Physicians made significant progress trying to address these issues in 2023, and I'd just like to recap a few highlights. In September, Volition hosted a key opinion leader roundtable event in Athens, Greece. The workshop held over the course of two days focused exclusively on sepsis and the potential role of Nu.Q NET is attended by some of the world's leading experts. Many of the attendees are operating under the umbrella of our Center of Excellence program with Nu.Q NET and have firsthand experience using assay now. The sense from the group was that Nu.Q NET potentially represents one of the biggest breakthroughs in the diagnosis and monitoring of sepsis in the last 30 years.

We're moving forward with this group and I'm now working on a review article with the intention to submit it for peer review and publication in a journal towards the end of the year. Continuing in the theme of publication, shortly after our Canadian opinion leader event and subsequent to quarter end in October, the first clinical paper from our clinical excellence group was published. Professor Gila Monterrey's team in Leon published data demonstrating the correlation of the Nu.Q NET level and sepsis. There is a clear mortality signal. What does that mean? The higher patients Nu.Q NET level unfortunately the more likely they are to die. We've also seen in a longitudinal fashion that Nu.Q NET level tracks very well with the severity of the patient's illness.

We've been using something called the sepsis score, the sequential organ failure assessment score to calibrate and check Nu.Q NET levels. It's brilliant that we've got the first paper out and I'm really looking forward to publishing and sharing with you more data from our centers of excellence as we go through 2024 and 2025. Over in the U.S., I'm pleased to report that Volition completed the Q sub process with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA has confirmed that we can continue to follow a traditional 5, 10-K pathway. I'm also delighted to confirm that my own hospital guidance and Thomas has started using Nu.Q NET in our first study. In a similar theme, we're trying to identify and track patients and monitor the severity of sepsis.

This is a large study, we're aiming to enroll around 500 patients and compare patients with sepsis to healthy patients undergoing cardiac surgery. This should give us really good data to try and split the patients apart and understand differences between them. For those that might have missed the recent Edison webinar on sepsis or indeed their thematic report, I wanted to highlight a couple of ongoing studies, which we hope will continue to reinforce and strengthen our clinical utility case. We have ongoing analysis of two large retrospective sepsis cohorts in Europe. The first is with the German sepsis group and the second is with the team at UMC Amsterdam. In total, these studies will examine the outcome and trajectory of over 2,500 patients with sepsis.

They involve the processing of over 8,000 Nu.Q NET samples. It's an unbelievably rich data source for us. And we're really excited about this data. But we're really excited about presenting it and submitting it for publication by the end of 2024. These studies will be a rich source of insight using Nu.Q NET on a really large scale and should enable us to sharpen and improve it as we move forward to again bringing into the clinical arena. Our project with key opinion leader, Professor De Carli Annan [ph] in France is progressing really well. De Carl is involved in the consortium project with an ongoing prospective study of which Volition is a member. Again, it's longitude in nature and large scale and is aiming to recruit 1,500 patients. We've also extended our study with [indiscernible] in the U.S. We have refocused this study to concentrate on the sickest patients admitted from the emergency room rather than simply including intensive care patients.

This is expanding the population of patients in which we're using Nu.Q and that's really exciting. We hope to close out the study by the end of second quarter and we'll share the results as soon as we can. We're confident that we will have significantly strengthened our data within the confidential data room for ongoing commercial discussions by the middle of the year. From a publication perspective, all eyes and our focus will be on the European Society of Intensive Care meeting in October later this year. We anticipate a number of the studies I've just mentioned will report at ESICM. We're also really proud to be sponsoring our first satellite symposium session at the Congress. More details will follow, but it's going to be a really busy year ahead for Nu.Q NET and sepsis.

I'd now like to take just a few more minutes to discuss Volition's potentially breakthrough cancer detection method, which we first presented at the European Society of Medical Oncology Congress Press in 2023. Cancer, as we all know, affects the lives of millions around the world each year. Unfortunately, the number of new cases of cancer diagnosed each year is continuing to grow. Like many diseases, early diagnosis when the cancer is smaller and hasn't spread leads to a better outcome for patients that's less surgery, less chemotherapy and just needs better and improved outcomes. Sadly, cancer is often a silent disease, it's asymptomatic and people don't realize they have it until really quite late. In the UK, we're a perfect example about that, where around 45% in cancers are diagnosed at the later stages Stage 3 and Stage 4.

Our test focuses around detecting circulating tumor DNA, ctDNA. Detecting ctDNA is really difficult because the levels of DNA in blood are relatively low and circulating tumor DNA compromises only about 0.01% of the circulating cell-free DNA. While the challenge is compounded as most of the detect cancer DNA looks almost identical or is indeed exactly the same as normal DNA. Volition has developed a novel method of liquid biopsy involving the first reported physical isolation of tumor-derived DNA fragments from blood. The cancer-derived circulating tumor DNA fragments are then extracted after removal of all normal background DNA and then they are sequenced using a low-cost PCR test. We're calling this technique Capture-PCR. Volition's proof-of-concept data was presented at ESMA 2023, demonstrating the isolation of tumor-derived ctDNA fragments from plasma.

Volition tested the new method in a small clinical experiment and detected a range of liquid and solid organ cancers, including early stage disease, Stage 1 disease. These early assays were developed from our initial leukemia model, but to our surprise, we were also able to detect many other cancers. In particular, we were able to detect colorectal cancer. We're really excited about the potential for Capture-PCR going forward. My colleague, Dr. Jake Micalle and team have presented a number of cancer specific conferences such as prostate cancer and liver cancer conferences. They have been sharing their data with important key opinion leaders and we've received really valuable feedback and positive feedback as we go forward. The team have also continued to identify other potential markers and other potential targets associated with the PCR test and we very much look forward to sharing this data in particular in solid organ cancers throughout this year and beyond.

Last but certainly no means least, Jake is working hard on completing the manuscript to submit this breakthrough method for peer review publication. This is going to be incredibly important paper and is intrinsically aligned with Felicia's core ethos and purpose of bringing a low-cost diagnostic test to millions of people around the world. Understandably, there will be ongoing commercial discussions throughout the year. Enjoying to a close, and so I can hand back over to Cameron, I'd just like to take a moment and I hope it's come across from me talking here to express how personally excited I am to be joining the company. I really believe in Volition's ethos and purpose and I'll hand you back to Cameron for his closing remarks. Thank you ever so much.

Cameron Reynolds: Thanks very much, Andy, for providing those insights, and thanks as always to Terry and Tom for their reports. It is a real sign of the varied expertise we now have at Volition. 2023 was certainly transformational for Volition and a year we can look back on with pride. The commercialization of our transformational Nu.Q vet cancer test within the companion animal healthcare sector has led to agreements with several new global and regional partners, including last week with Fujifilm Vet Systems, Japan's leading veterinary diagnostic service provider and looking just around the corner, the Nu.Q vet cancer test will soon be available as an in-house diagnostic test through Heska and Antech company. We strongly suspect we will see very good revenue growth from Nu.Q vet through 2024 and beyond.

I'm also absolutely delighted in the progress made in our Nu.Q NET's pillar, and in particular, in determining our regulatory pathway forward with the U.S. FDA, a key milestone for the company and in having a number of large-scale clinical studies due for publication later this year. Thirdly, and as we always seem to run low on time, I won't cover too much, but I would like to quickly mention Nu.Q Discover, which recorded revenue of $300,000 in 2023 and now has a pipeline of projects valued at over $1 million As a reminder, Nu.Q Discover is a complete solution to profiling nucleosomes, drug developers and scientists can work with us, access our state-of-the-art proprietary assays and realize their long term drug development needs. In this way, Nu.Q Discover is able to unlock value from Volition's IP portfolio by helping us commercialize the areas we are not going to focus on ourselves.

As I mentioned, revenue in 2023 was $300,000 and we expect it to more than double in 2024 and be as profitable as early as 2025. And finally, I'm absolutely also delighted with our potential breakthrough CTCF cancer detection method, Capture-PCR, which we had a poster in the Q4 at ESMO. We believe this is a true breakthrough moment. The first reported physical isolation of a class of tumor derived cell free DNA fragments from blood. We expect that this method obviates expensive and time-consuming DNA sequencing and bioinformatics, allowing for a rapid cost-effective detection in a routine blood test. This method could become a must have technology. Given its significance, we are very much open to licensing this technology. We have been tremendously encouraged by the level of interest thus far.

It has been and will continue to be a busy few months ahead of discussions and negotiations, not only now on Capture-PCR, but as we build out the data room for Nu.Q NET through the second quarter of this year, we anticipate more active discussions on that front as well. It is an exciting time for us as a Company and we look forward to sharing further updates and milestones with you over the coming quarters as we continue to adapt such changing times and conditions, deliver on what we believe to be revolutionary technologies. Given the current macroeconomic conditions, we are focusing on getting each pillar to support itself, either through product revenues, milestone payments, out licensing, or other non-dilutive funding in the coming year.

We are making every attempt to ensure as little dilution as possible to reach breakeven as a company with a mix of non-dilutive funding, revenue and milestone payments from our licensing as we have achieved in Vet. As we've described before, we are currently targeting the following. Firstly, we expect Nu.Q vet to be overall cash positive from existing milestone payments and the expected revenue ramp as more partners launch and existing partners expand into new territories. We're also working on a range of new products to drive revenue growth and hopefully new out licensing and milestone payments in future years from Vet. Secondly, we expect Nu.Q Discover to more than double revenue in 2024 and to become profitable as a unit starting in 2025, with over $1 million in the current pipeline and growing strongly.

Thirdly, we have begun the strategy to fund, as Terig alluded to earlier, our Nu.Q net pillar through non-dilutive and or project funding with an aim of $25 million. We have targeted a range of governmental agencies and are also preparing the background work aimed at attracting a large player to either out license or invest in this product directly. We have made strong progress through the first quarter of 2024 in getting the data required, and our aim is to get the first payments in the next 12 months from either corporate or governmental sources. Lastly, as discussed by Gael Forterre, our Chief Commercialization Officer in our recent webinar, there has been a lot of external interest in our CTCF and Nu.Q cancer technologies. Our strategy is to license this out to one or more large companies as a commercial undertaking of this size is likely beyond our current capabilities.

If successful, we believe this strategy could provide us with ongoing royalties and very meaningful milestone payments in the next 12 months. In drawing to a close, I would like to thank you all for joining the call today. We very much appreciate it, given how much there is to digest across all of our pillars. We are now happy to answer questions. Operator?

Operator: [Operator Instructions]. Our first question is from Tim Moore with EF. Tim, please proceed.

See also 20 Highest Quality Unisex Perfumes in 2024 and 20 Best Feminine Perfumes For Everyday Use.

To continue reading the Q&A session, please click here.
Fisker Inc. once likened itself to Apple.

CEO Henrik Fisker wanted his EV startup, which just got kicked out of the New York Stock Exchange, to be different from others. Like Apples novel approach of outsourcing the job of putting its gadgets together to Foxconn, Henrik Fisker wanted to do the same with Austrian manufacturer Magna Steyr. And he did.

But now, none of that may matter because Fisker faces an altogether different challengepossible bankruptcy.

What went wrong with the Danish auto designers eponymous company?

Launch and early years

The California-based Fisker launched in 2016, after its founders former startup called Fisker Automotive folded a few years earlier.

At the time, Fisker said he was hoping to invest in new tech that helped his company develop rapidly while making affordable all-electric SUVs. A challenger to the market-leading Tesla, if things went well.

In the meantime, as the EV craze was beginning to catch fire, Fisker managed to gather the interest of investors looking to foray into the space. Although Fisker came with top-notch design expertise, he also had a complicated history given his first failed startup. But his new company looked promising in the clutter of EV and EV-adjacent companies that were rushing to get a slice of the action in the late 2010s.

In 2020, the company went public via a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (or SPAC) on the New York Stock Exchange. At the time, the company projected revenue of $13 billion by 2025 (it was pre-revenue in 2020).

Bringing Fiskers concept to market was the next ordeal. A slew of software, supply chain and regulatory problems meant the companys first model, the Fisker Ocean, didnt start delivering its cars until a year ago.

Some of Fiskers problems ring true for the entire EV industry as demand slows, price competition increases and investor interest wanes. Several EV industry players have folded because of these headwinds, including Arrival and Lordstown. But Fiskers strategic decisionsincluding pivoting to a dealership network from a direct-to-consumer modelhave only made matters more complicated to fix given the current EV climate.

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The Fisker Ocean, the new all electric SUV from the American automaker, exhibited at Mobile World Congress (MWC) the biggest trade show of the sector focused on mobile devices, 5G, IOT, AI and big data, celebrated in Barcelona, on March 3, 2022 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Joan Cros/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Trouble in paradise

Fiskers laundry list of problems have only mounted since the start of this year.

The company has become the subject of a probe after users complained about their Fisker cars rolling away. Its Ocean SUVs are now being investigated by U.S. federal regulators over brake-related problems.

Its also in deep financial trouble. In its full-year earnings report last month, the Tesla-rival made close to 10,200 EVs but only delivered 4,900 of those. Fisker also said at the time that it was precariously cash-strapped and hoped to receive an investment from a large automaker.

It laid off 15% of its staff as it planned to pivot its strategy amid liquidity issues. Not least, it raised substantial doubt over its ability to continue with operations.

Fisker received a warning from NYSE because of its low stock value in February. On Monday, within a month of the previous notice, the company was delisted from the worlds biggest stock exchange.

The cocktail of problems has brought the ambitious EV company closer to bankruptcy than ever before.

Is this the last leg?

Earlier this month, Fisker said it would suspend production for six weeks as it missed an interest payment and would try to raise $150 million by selling convertible notes. Its long-awaited talks with that unnamed large automaker for a possible investment fell through this week.

The California-based Fiskers last beacon of hope was reported to have been Nissan, the Japanese auto giant, which pulled out at the last minute, according to Reuters.

Fiskers future has never felt so uncertain, and whether the company does manage to claw its way out of crisis during the ongoing EV winter remains to be seen.

But Henrik Fisker has remained optimistic throughout. He told Yahoo Finance this month that he believes we have a futureotherwise I wouldnt be here.

And I believe were gonna manage to get out of this, I would say, general EV slump that there is out there, he said.

Fisker could do with that optimism.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
ocado new york

After striking a deal to partner with Marks & Spencer in 2019, Ocado chief executive Tim Steiner hailed the 750m agreement as a win-win for both parties.

He stressed that M&S had taken an incredibly smart risk by partnering with the online grocer, insisting its not like going to a casino and laying down a chip.

Five years later, it is unclear whether all parties still agree, with recent tensions fuelling speculation that M&S could move to take full control of the Ocado Retail joint venture.

The prospect of Ocado shaking itself free of the M&S partnership could pave the way for a lucrative future.

In the eyes of its founders, the company has always been a technology business founded on the strength of its robot warehouses. Shorn of its retail arm, new worlds lie ahead  including, analysts say, a possible home in the US.

A possible shift across the Atlantic could help Ocado fulfil the promise once heralded by its technology division, Ocado Solutions.

Investors have long held out hope that its tech arm will supercharge growth but Ocados share price has fallen by 66pc in the past five years.

Its sluggish valuation has led to some market sources suggesting drastic changes to unlock Ocados full potential.

However, Ocado Retail chief Hannah Gibson stuck to the script during a media call on Tuesday: Were all just really focused together, across M&S, Ocado Group, Ocado Retail, on improving the customer position on growing this business, and that is the conversation that were focused on.

There was, she added, no new news regarding the joint ventures financial structure.

Under the terms of the agreement, from next year it will be M&S and not Ocado Group that reports financials for the online grocer  which recorded revenues of 645.3m in the first quarter of the year after sales rose by 10.6pc.

Some argue that the partnership is reaching its natural conclusion, not least because of a looming legal row triggered by M&S outstanding payments as part of the initial deal.

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M&S has claimed that a final tranche should not be paid because the joint venture failed to hit certain targets, which has led to Ocado threatening to sue M&S over its stance.

Meanwhile, M&S has been calling for more integration across the business, demanding that more of its products be added to Ocados website to help boost performance.

Just under 30pc of the Ocado Retail range is now made up of M&S products, which is the highest it has ever been.

Steiner has long advocated that the joint venture represents the best outcome for both sides, with sources claiming it helps to showcase Ocados warehouse technology to the world.

However, a number of City analysts believe it is only a matter of time until M&S decides it wants more control.

Id expect the most likely ownership structure for Ocado Retail is to be owned by M&S, says Clive Black, an analyst at Shore Capital.

Alternatively, Ocado could seek a new investor to acquire its stake in the business.

The question then is what happens to Ocados technology arm, which sells robot warehouse fulfilment technology to a dozen retailers around the world.

Its customers include US grocery giant Kroger, which uses Ocados automated robots to transport groceries around giant warehouses.

US grocery giant Kroger uses Ocado's automated robots to transport groceries around warehouses - REUTERS/Paul Childs

While its technology ambitions have drawn long-standing interest from shareholders, Ocados stock remains 80pc lower than at its high point in 2021. This means the business is now worth just 4bn, down from 22bn during the pandemic.

Ocados tepid performance on the London Stock Exchange has reignited industry talk over its long-term future in the Square Mile.

Speculation last year of a potential takeover by Amazon quickly fizzled out  but it was enough to send Ocados shares up more than 40pc at the time.

Brittain Ladd, a strategy consultant who previously worked at Amazon and advised Kroger on its partnership with Ocado, says the business needs to be asking: Why do we exist?

Ladd says Ocado should look at tearing up its exclusivity deal with Kroger to grow more aggressively in the US, aiming for deals outside its grocery staple and going after brands such as Target, H&M or Gap.

I have encouraged Ocado for years to open up an office in the US and have a US chief executive, he says.

It could also consider exploring a market listing in the US, raising funds from American investors or retail giants to fund a renewed push.

There is no reason someone like Ocado cannot change their business model where they are more aggressive across retail in general in the US, he says. I would strongly encourage Ocado to list in the US.

That would certainly help Ocado unlock capital. However, the key is for Ocado to articulate a strategy of how they will use their platform.

There could be other outcomes. Ladd says he previously advised Kroger to buy Ocado outright and also suggested to Ocados executives that they merge with Instacart, the US grocery delivery business.

Insiders, however, say Ocado remains fully committed to its Kroger deal and has sought to deeply embed its technology with its customers.

Black, of Shore Capital, says never say never on a listing in the US. A few UK stocks particularly of a technology orientation have gone to the US and got a much higher multiple, he says.

A US float would see Ocado join a growing exodus from the City as blue chips seek more attractive valuations and greater access to cash.

While shareholders have long grumbled over Ocados valuation, Steiner, 54, faces more immediate challenges.

Investors are threatening to rebel at its annual general meeting later this month over his pay packet, which could be worth up to 15m, based on its share price performance.

Proxy adviser group ISS urged shareholders to vote against the deal, which it said was not in line with UK market standards and investor expectations as they currently stand.

Despite Ocados attempt to justify the deal, aggrieved investors may have a point after the company said in February that it does not expect to be profitable for five to six years.

There could be an argument that a switch from London to New York could accelerate this, although some believe investors should not hold their breath.

The thing about Ocado that is very frustrating to me is they move so damn slow, says Ladd.

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This acquisition expands Woolpert's geospatial solutions footprint in Europe and supports the expansion and advancement of mapping technology and innovation.

DAYTON, Ohio, March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Woolpert has acquired Murphy Geospatial, a multidisciplinary geospatial solutions company that is headquartered in Kilcullen, Ireland. Murphy Geospatial is a private, family-owned geospatial solutions company that delivers a broad range of services that include survey, mobile and indoor mapping, asset monitoring, subsurface engineering, and 3D digital twin development. The firm has a staff of nearly 400 across six offices in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Woolpert is a private, U.S.-based architecture, engineering, and geospatial firm that was founded in 1911 and has been providing comprehensive and integrated geospatial services for more than 50 years. Woolpert President Neil Churman said this acquisition is focused on the expansion and elevation of Woolpert's geospatial capabilities in Europe. This union will enable the companies to align best practices, leverage operational efficiencies, and advance services that include survey, reality capture, BIM, asset monitoring, GIS, and all forms of mapping.

"Over the last four decades, Murphy Geospatial has solidified itself as an innovative geospatial partner throughout Ireland, the UK, and the surrounding regions," Churman said. "Together with Murphy Geospatial, Woolpert will expand its geospatial presence in Europe to improve our offering to customers, accelerate next-level solutions, and provide vital support to the infrastructure, manufacturing, construction, property, utility, and natural environment sectors."

Murphy Geospatial CEO Niall Murphy and his team will continue to lead Murphy Geospatial, a Woolpert Company, in strategic alignment with Woolpert. Murphy said the companies share a dedication to client service, geospatial innovation, industry leadership, and employee culture.

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"We are thrilled to be joining forces with the Woolpert team," Murphy said. "Their long-standing history in the geospatial sector and commitment to creating a great place to work for employees makes them an ideal match for us. We look forward to taking this next step to better serving our valued clients and advancing the industry together."

About Murphy Geospatial

Founded over 40 years ago, Murphy Geospatial now has six offices across the UK and Ireland and employs nearly 400 experts who have delivered more than 27,000 projects. Murphy Geospatial captures, collates, verifies, and governs geospatial data, enabling its clients to make informed decisions to increase efficiencies, reduce risk, and enhance value across the project life cycle. Setting the standards in the industry, Murphy Geospatial delivers geospatial certainty you can trust. With proven geospatial solutions through the design, construction, and in-use phases of projects across six key sectors; Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Property, Natural Environment, Energy and Utilities. Services include geospatial consultancy, aerial/UAV surveys, BIM, digital construction, topographical surveys, laser scanning, property surveys, rail surveys, structural and environmental monitoring, subsurface investigation and more.

About Woolpert

Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG), and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private, and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is a Global Top 100 Geospatial Company, a Top 100 ENR Global Design firm, has earned seven Great Place to Work certifications, and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity, and respect. Founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, Woolpert has been America's fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. Woolpert has over 2,000 employees and more than 60 offices on five continents. Visit woolpert.com .

Media contacts:

Woolpert: Jill Kelley; 937-531-1258, jill.kelley@woolpert.com

Murphy Geospatial: Kirsty Ostell; 0191 2325690, kirsty@o.agency

Woolpert welcomes Murphy Geospatial, a multidisciplinary geospatial solutions company headquartered in Kilcullen, Ireland.

Cision

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SOURCE Woolpert
Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, Xaar fair value estimate is UK2.04

Xaar is estimated to be 50% undervalued based on current share price of UK1.03

Our fair value estimate is 7.6% higher than Xaar's analyst price target of UK1.90

Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Xaar plc (LON:XAR) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward.

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model.

View our latest analysis for Xaar

Crunching The Numbers

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) UK2.20m UK1.18m UK3.80m UK5.85m UK8.09m UK10.3m UK12.3m UK14.1m UK15.5m UK16.7m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x3 Analyst x4 Analyst x1 Est @ 53.99% Est @ 38.28% Est @ 27.29% Est @ 19.59% Est @ 14.21% Est @ 10.44% Est @ 7.80% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 8.5% UK2.0 UK1.0 UK3.0 UK4.2 UK5.4 UK6.3 UK7.0 UK7.3 UK7.5 UK7.4

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = UK51m

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We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 1.6%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 8.5%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = UK17m (1 + 1.6%)  (8.5% 1.6%) = UK249m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= UK249m ( 1 + 8.5%)10= UK110m

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is UK161m. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of UK1.0, the company appears quite undervalued at a 50% discount to where the stock price trades currently. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent.

dcf

The Assumptions

Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Xaar as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.5%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.248. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for Xaar

Strength

Debt is well covered by earnings.

Weakness

No major weaknesses identified for XAR.

Opportunity

Forecast to reduce losses next year.

Has sufficient cash runway for more than 3 years based on current free cash flows.

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Threat

Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow.

Looking Ahead:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. Can we work out why the company is trading at a discount to intrinsic value? For Xaar, we've compiled three additional elements you should explore:

Risks: Take risks, for example - Xaar has 1 warning sign we think you should be aware of. Future Earnings: How does XAR's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every British stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Virginia State Police investigators are hoping the public can help them track down a convicted sex offender.

In a Wednesday statement, the state police said Sheldon Locke Davis, 63, is wanted on four counts of failing to re-register as a sex offender.

Davis previously lived in the Rhoadesville area of Orange County, according to the state police. He has moved and has not provided the state police with his new address.

The state police said Davis, who stands 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighs 175 pounds may still be living in Orange or a surrounding locality. He has brown hair and green eyes.

Anyone with information can provide tips to the state police by using the departments online sex offender webpage: vspsor.com.
With the former superintendent for Spotsylvania County schools officially out, the School Board made a move Monday night to find a replacement.

During a special meeting, the board held a closed session and returned to approve the hiring of a search firm to help the county find a new leader to fill the void left after former Superintendent Mark Taylor was fired.

The board has an agreement with BWP & Associates, a Libertyville, Illinois, based company that focuses on school districts. On its website, the firm says it has conducted more than 800 successful executive searches.

The board also voted, 6-1, to appoint an interim superintendent, Kelly Guempel, who has served in that role since Taylor was placed on leave. Board member Lisa Phelps (Lee Hill District) was the lone dissenting vote.

Taylor, a controversial superintendent who removed more than 30 book titles from the countys school libraries last year, was placed on administrative leave in late January, when the board terminated his contract.

The school board wasnt completely in agreement on choosing BWP & Associates.

April Gillespie (Berkeley District) said the county could have used the firm that helped the board select Taylor and in turn saved $30,000. She abstained from the vote selecting BWP & Associates. Phelps voted against hiring the firm.

Board members called the decision an important step, talked about being excited to move forward but also noted that they have to rebuild trust with the public.

Gillespie took offense to the talk of rebuilding trust, saying the problem was a manufactured crisis.  Theres no trust to rebuild. Its just people up here trying to do their jobs, and thats what theyve been doing for the past two years and will continue to do it.

Board member Nicole Cole (Battlefield District) said they need the public to be involved in the process of choosing a new superintendent as the division moves forward.

Our division deserves a qualified superintendent who is excited to serve all our students regardless of race, background, gender, capabilities. So Im looking forward to getting to that point.
An employee of the Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce who has been instrumental in the development and growth of the chambers Spanish Language Networking Group as well as diversity and inclusion efforts will be honored by the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce at its 2024 Young Professionals Summit on March 28.

Christine Torres, director of membership and development for the FACOC, will be honored with the Omaha Chambers DEIA Change Maker Award, given to the two-year Fremont Chamber staffer for her outstanding contributions to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility within the community.

Torres will personally receive the award at the YP Summit hosted in Omaha on Thursday, March 28.

Fremont Chamber officials stated in a press release that Torres remarkable efforts in fostering inclusivity and empowering the Latino and Hispanic community are one main reason she will be celebrated and honored with the award.

Torres said in an email that she was elated to be recognized for her efforts at fostering a diverse, inclusive networking and business community in Fremont and Dodge County.

I am deeply humbled and grateful to receive this award. Its a testament to the incredible efforts of our Spanish networking group, which started as a small gathering no one believed in, Torres said.

Today, witnessing its growth is nothing short of amazing. To those striving to make a difference in their communities, keep pushing forward! As Director of Membership and Development, I am committed to expanding our Chambers reach, ensuring it reflects the diversity of our population, Torres said. This recognition fuels my determination to continue this vital work. To the Spanish Networking group, your unwavering support means everything.

Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Brenda Wilberding said Torres is a well-deserved recipient of the award due to her unwavering determination to connect our members.

Her work within the Spanish speaking community has been incredible. She is a trusted community member and someone who works hard to make sure all people are considered and included, Wilberding said in an email. Her work in the community has opened up a welcoming door to all of our community members and her drive to inform the Spanish speaking community about what the Chamber has to offer has helped us diversify our membership which intern helps all of our members grow and thrive.

Torres joined the Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce in July 2022 after working for several years at the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce. Her efforts at uniting the Latino and Hispanic communities across Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota were one reason she was tabbed for the award, Omaha Chamber officials said in the press release.

Torres has demonstrated her commitment to empowering Hispanic businesses and fostering prosperity in the Fremont and surrounding communities. She spearheaded the establishment of the Hispanic Council within the Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce, with a mission to empower Hispanic businesses, bridge connections among all Chamber members, and foster economic growth, said Devin Brashear, the chambers director of communications.

One of Torres notable initiatives includes fostering a relationship with the Fremont Police Department, particularly with Lt. Ed Watts. Together, they have organized community walks, where members of the Hispanic Council accompany Lt. Watts to various Hispanic and Latino-owned businesses in Fremont, Brashear said. These efforts aim to strengthen the relationship between the police department and the Latino/Hispanic businesses, fostering mutual trust and understanding.

The Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerces Young Professionals summit is scheduled for Thursday, March 28, at the CHI Health Center in Omaha. For more information, check out the event website at omahachamber.org/ypsummit/
A short move by a Fremont family from their old downtown Fremont residence to a new home in the Gallery 23 neighborhood just outside the city limits caused unexpected confusion and frustration last weekend at the Keene Memorial Library.

The issue stemmed from the Keene Memorial Librarys longstanding policy that non-residents of Fremont are required to pay a $35 fee to obtain a library card, said Library Director Laura England-Biggs. Books and materials cannot be checked out without a library card.

Residents who live within the Fremont city limits can get a library card for free; however, anyone outside those limits is required to pay a non-resident fee to get a card.

The Gallery 23 neighborhood is not inside Fremonts city limits, but is within the citys extra-territorial jurisdiction and also uses Fremont as the city on postal service mail.

Those geographical fine details are what caused confusion for the family, England-Biggs said, noting that she was sorry for the ordeal and confusion.

She said the $35 fee has been in place for a long time, and said it does not apply to anyone from anywhere who wants to merely visit the library and browse books.

The fee is required, though, for non-residents of Fremont who want an official library card used to checkout materials and books.

I think there is a misunderstanding, England-Biggs said of the familys complaints and frustration with the policy. I recommend folks who are confused, upset or who have questions to ask for me and I will happily talk to them and explain the policies.

Local mother Tessa Soto said the incident occurred when members of her family were at the newly-renovated Keene city library and attempted to check out books.

My husband went up to the counter to check out some books. In doing so, the staff member asked if there was any changes to his profile, (such as) phone number, address. He showed them his (drivers) license with our new address, Soto said in an email, noting that the family had moved to a new home in the Gallery 23 neighborhood on the east side of U.S. Highway 275.

Soto said the library staffer said because the family lived outside of the Fremont city limits, they would need to buy a non-resident library card to check out books.

The staff member was nice, but would not budge on him needing to pay the out-of-resident fee due to this map (of Fremont), Soto said. He said he did not want the books after all and left empty handed.

Soto said a map of the city posted online at fremontne.gov shows the city limits literally going around Gallery 23, but noted that, according to the U.S. Postal Service, the familys city of residence is Fremont.

We have been huge librarygoers before the renovation. When we used to live on Main Street, we could walk to the library, Soto said. We pay vehicle taxes to Fremont, we pay city taxes, we do not have to option-in our kids in to go to Fremont (Public Schools), we are considered in-town residents in all those regards, but not with the library?

England-Biggs noted that families who have children that go to school at Fremont Public Schools, the Bergan Catholic campuses or Trinity Lutheran school can qualify for a free library card at no cost no matter where the students family resides.

Theres an Every Student Needs a Card program, and Im sure my staff are trained well enough to have told them about that, England-Biggs said. I think theres a misunderstanding somewhere and I wish this person had come to me first. I would have been happy to have explained things.

The city library has adapted to be more inclusive over the past decade, implementing a robust Spanish-language programming schedule and also removing and eliminating all fees for late books or materials.

England-Biggs also said that no library card is needed to merely hang out in the library and read books without checking them out or to participate in the robust and frequent special programming activities.

If they want to just come in, pull a book off the shelf, read it together and leave without taking the book, theres no charge at all, England-Biggs said. And if they want to come to our story time, if they want to come to our programs, there is no requirement to have a library card. A family could get one card and check out books for like five kids and they could all read it at the same time.
A Kansas City, Missouri, police officer with 33 years of experience has been picked to lead the La Vista Police Department.

Mike Schofield will start work as the city's police chief and director of public safety in June, according to a statement released Monday by the City of La Vista. He is currently a division commander in Kansas City.

Schofield, the statement said, has held a variety of positions in Kansas City. He has valuable experience and extensive knowledge in the areas of detention operations, patrol/criminal interdiction operations, community-oriented policing, counter-drug intelligence analysis and information technology management.

After an extensive search, it is a privilege to appoint Mike Schofield to serve as La Vistas next Chief of Police, Mayor Douglas Kindig said. His impressive background and leadership experience give me complete confidence that he is the right person to guide and shape the future of our Police Department. I am impressed not only by his genuine nature, but his thorough understanding of the critical issues and priorities impacting law enforcement and our community."

Schofield was one of three finalists who recently visited La Vista and interacted with residents during a community forum.

The opportunity to join the La Vista Police Department is an absolute honor and privilege, Schofield said. The dedicated men and women of this police department have been performing exceptionally well, and I am committed to building on the outstanding leadership provided by Captain D.J. Barcal this past year or so. I look forward to the opportunity to become more acquainted with the community, and to work collaboratively with the officers and professional staff of the department."

The city council will vote to approve his appointment at its meeting on June 4. He will become La Vistas fifth police chief, following Bob Lausten who retired at the end of 2023.
Imagine youre taking your trusty battleship on a trip around Omaha.

You may begin your journey with a bite to eat at a Runza. Later, you may decide to stop by the Durham Museum on your way to other city icons like Charles Schwab Field and the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium.

While on your trip, you may decide you have the cash to buy up neighborhoods like Benson and Dundee in pursuit of building your own Cottonwood Hotel. You also may decide to buy a utility like the Omaha Public Power District or a railroad like Union Pacific.

After a while, you can laugh as you drive your fellow citizens into bankruptcy when they unfortunately land and pay the exorbitant rents on your developed properties.

Those are among the many possibilities that could be included in an Omaha-specific edition of Monopoly that is expected to be available for purchase at local retailers and online retailers including Amazon in early November.

In a press conference on March 22 at Omaha City Hall, Sarah Bowman, a sales executive with Top Trumps USA, said members of the public are invited to share their submissions on which Omaha-specific attractions should be represented in the board game published by Hasbro. People and businesses can submit their suggestions until early May through email at omaha@toptrumps.com.

Where do you take your kids on the weekend? Where do you go on date night? Bowman said. We want to hear from you guys.

The Omaha edition of Monopoly will be the latest in a series of editions based on cities around the world. It will join only a handful of cities in the United States that have received their own editions of Monopoly, Bowman said.

We look for those places that have a ton of community pride (and) personality like being the first inventor of the Reuben sandwich. Ive heard Nebraska nice so much, Bowman said. Those are the kind of places we look forward to honor your special city.

Mayor Jean Stothert noted that a Dallas mayor gave her a version of Monopoly honoring the Texas city.

Ours is going to be better, she said with a laugh.

Stothert said it came as a surprise to her that an Omaha version of Monopoly was in the works.

We were really happy and thrilled about it, she said. We have so many unique things here from people to new event spaces. Things (are) going on all over Omaha. We thought, Boy, this could be really fun.

Bowman said developers are so spoiled for choice on all the local possibilities that could be included. Bowman said some things will remain consistent from the original game, including the corner squares of Go, Free Parking, Jail and Go to Jail.

Stothert jokingly quipped that Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer could provide his likeness for the police officer on the Go to Jail square.

There are so many amazing things in Omaha, and there are only 22 property squares, Bowman said. Thats why we need your submissions.
Pakistani PM vows to bring to justice perpetrators of attack on Chinese

Xinhua) 08:40, March 27, 2024

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (L) meets with Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong at the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, in Islamabad, Pakistan, on March 26, 2024. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday vowed to promptly bring to justice the perpetrators and accomplices of the attack on Chinese nationals in the country's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province when visiting the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, the Prime Minister's office said. (PID/Handout via Xinhua)

ISLAMABAD, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday vowed to promptly bring to justice the perpetrators and accomplices of the attack on Chinese nationals in the country's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province when visiting the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, the Prime Minister's office said.

Five Chinese nationals and one Pakistani were killed when a vehicle from the Dasu Hydropower Project, being constructed by a Chinese company in the province, was attacked by terrorists on Tuesday afternoon, the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan confirmed in a statement.

In a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong during his visit, Sharif offered deep and sincere condolence to the families of the Chinese victims, describing the terrorist attack as "horrific."

Pakistan will make every effort to work with China to properly deal with the aftermath of the incident, conduct the investigation promptly and thoroughly, and bring the perpetrators to justice, the prime minister said, adding that further measures will be taken to comprehensively strengthen the security of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions in Pakistan.

"We will not let the despicable efforts to harm Pakistan-China friendship succeed," he added.

Jiang said that China strongly condemns this terrorist act, expresses deep condolences to the victims of both countries and is making full efforts to deal with the aftermath of the incident.

"We urge the Pakistani side to speed up the investigation, promptly bring the perpetrators to justice, earnestly and effectively protect the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan and ensure that similar incidents will not happen again," said the Chinese ambassador.

The incident happened in the Shangla area of the province, where the attacker rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a convoy escorted by five vehicles of security forces, sources from KP's police told Xinhua.

One of the vehicles of the 13-vehicle convoy caught fire and fell into a ravine, following the attack, the sources added.

The area was cordoned off for investigations and the injured were shifted to hospital.

No group has claimed the attack yet.

The incident has also been condemned by Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari, and Pakistan's foreign ministry and army. They expressed their condolences to the bereaved families, and vowed that the country will never let enemies of Pakistan-China friendship succeed in their mission.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (C, Front) shakes hands with Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong at the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, in Islamabad, Pakistan, on March 26, 2024. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday vowed to promptly bring to justice the perpetrators and accomplices of the attack on Chinese nationals in the country's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province when visiting the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, the Prime Minister's office said. (PID/Handout via Xinhua)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
The Welcome Center serves as the point of entry to the Springs Rescue Mission campus, which will increase safety while creating a safe space for men and women who are experiencing homelessness. In addition to the port of entry, the 3,000-square-foot Welcome Center has a mailroom for people to receive mail and a kennel for pets. (Chancey Bush/ The Gazette)
Three Colorado ski resorts have now surpassed 300 inches of snow for winter 2023-24. Steamboat has notched 355 inches, Winter Park 323 inches and joining them in the No. 3 spot is Wolf Creek with 306 inches.

The snow will continue for Colorado as well, with two storms over the next seven or eight days bringing decent accumulations to all mountain regions.

Recap:

Snow fell on Tuesday night in all mountain regions, with accumulations between 0-2 inches in the western mountain, 2-7 inches in the central mountains and 1-3 in the southern, and 1-7 in the northern mountains.

Ski areas and resorts around the state had cooler temperatures on Tuesday too, like at Breckenridge where a high of 29 degrees at the Peak 8 gondola base was recorded, after starting the morning out in the low single digits.

Forecast:

On Wednesday, snow will taper off in the morning before skies slowly clear out from west to east by sunset and into the evening.

On Thursday, the forecast still is looking like a transition day as Colorado will be between storms, but temperatures will remain more winter-like, with high temperatures staying in the low 30s.

By Thursday night, however, storm energy moves into Colorado 6-9 hours earlier, according to the ECMWF high resolution model from Tuesday night.

Snow accumulations should mostly be in the western, northwestern and central mountains and range between 2-6 inches in the western and central mountains and 4-8 in the northwestern mountains for Friday's first chairs.

Long Range:

On Friday, snow continues as waves of energy from a low pressure system off the Oregon coast continues to spin moisture eastward across Nevada and Utah.

Saturday's first chairs accumulations should be pretty good in the western, northwestern and central mountains with between an additional 6-12 inches, and 4-8 inches for the southern and northern mountains.

On Sunday, the low pressure system will be west of Los Angeles, California, according to the EMCWF synoptic composite, still spinning moisture into the Four Corners region and producing snow Sunday night through Monday night.

Additional snow accumulations between 3-6 inches in the northern and central mountains and 2-4 inches in the southern mountains is forecast.

On Monday, the low pressure system works its way into the Arizona desert and continue pushing moisture into Colorado on southwest flows, with accumulations between 2-6 inches across all mountain regions.

On Tuesday, lingering snow showers could drop another 1-3 inches, but will end in the afternoon.

On Wednesday and Thursday, Colorado is forecast to be dry and sunny with warming temperatures ahead of a storm system arriving from the west on Friday.

This storm's track has slid a touch farther south after another model run and looks like a good snow event for the western, central and southern mountains.

Snowpack around Colorado has remained around 106% for the better part of a week and should continue holding between 103% to 106% heading into April. April 7 is the median peak day for snowpack, with Colorado's snow water equivalent at 15.6 inches as of March 27, which is 0.2 inches above the 15.4-inch median average level.

Today's 24 hour snow totals from Colorado resorts:

Arapahoe Basin - 1"

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Aspen Mountain - 5"

Aspen Highlands - 7"

Beaver Creek - 5"

Breckenridge - 0"

Buttermilk - 2"

Cooper - 3"

Copper Mountain - 2"

Crested Butte - 7"

Echo Mountain - 0"

Eldora Mountain - 1"

Granby Ranch - 0"

Hesperus - Closed for season

Howelsen Hill - Closed for season

Kendall Mountain - Closed for season

Keystone - 1"

Loveland - 2"

Monarch - 4"

Powderhorn - 0"

Purgatory - 0"

Silverton - 4"

Snowmass - 6"

Steamboat - 6"

Sunlight - 2"

Telluride - 4"

Vail - 7"

Winter Park - 2"

Wolf Creek - 3"
Colorado Springs police along with officials with the Department of Revenue have made an arrest and executed multiple search warrants in what they say is an ongoing organized retail crime investigation.

Officers served warrants at three locations Tuesday at around 9 a.m., said Colorado Springs Police Department spokesperson Caitlin Ford. Two are mall storefront locations  Heroes and Legends at the The Citadel mall and Legends and Heroes at Chapel Hill Mall, both tied to the same owner.

The third location, a residence on Berrey Lane in Lorson Ranch that the Colorado Springs Police Department said was tied to the business owner, was also searched with the assistance of the El Paso County Sheriff's Office.

The individual arrested was Jon Vincent Martinez, 43, who CSPD says is in custody on suspicion of tax evasion based on Department of Revenue charges.

The CSPD said in a Tuesday blotter entry that more arrests are expected from the investigation.

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Ford said the locations were searched in connection with an investigation started in late 2022 into The Citadel store location, where the business was allegedly reselling stolen new in box and over the counter goods at a lower price.

According to a Facebook page for the business, the store sells collectibles including cards, toys and comic books.

Christian Martinez, who works in a store adjacent to Heroes and Legends in The Citadel, said Tuesday evening that he saw law enforcement conducting the search warrant in the store and another nearby storefront connected with the owner that stored military-style items. That location did not appear to be open to the public.

In a blotter entry, police said that military surplus items were identified during the search and that the Army Criminal Investigation Division has been contacted to assist in the investigation.

This is a developing story. Earlier versions of this story incorrectly attributed information to Gazette news partner KOAA. Return to gazette.com for updates.
No wolf mortalities and no reported livestock depredation in the last 30 days have been reported by officials with Colorado Parks and Wildlife as the agency continues to track gray wolves in Colorado.

The updated map published Wednesday on CPWs website continues informing the public, recreationists, and livestock producers on where collared wolves have been in the past month, according to a news release.

 Collared activity from Feb. 28 to March 25 shows gray wolves have crossed US Highway 40 east of Winter Park and Granby, but not over the Continental Divide.

 Collared activity shows wolves have wandered west of CO Highway 14 in North Park into the Park Range east of Steamboat Springs, Colorado as well.

 Collared activity also shows wolves reaching farther west nearing the Utah/Colorado border throughout much of Rio Blanco and northern Garfield counties, north of Glenwood Springs and Rifle.

 One of the collars placed on a wolf translocated from Oregon is no longer providing signals to CPW biologists. The animal with the failed collar is traveling with another animal with a functional collar, which currently allows CPW to monitor that animal. CPW has confirmed that the animal with the malfunctioning collar is still alive based on visual confirmation from an airplane.

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 A collar on another wolf has been identified as partially functional and may not be fully functional in the near future.

This map depicts watersheds where collared wolves in Colorado have been for the last 30 days. A watershed is a geographic unit that drains water into a specific water body.

CPW each month releases an updated map that shows the collared gray wolves movements over the last 30 days.

Map of gray wolf activity from Jan. 23 to Feb. 27:

Wildlife officials said they reserve the right to buffer the wolves locations on the map if it means protecting the wolves safety.

CPW said the accuracy of the map will diminish over time as the animals breed in the wild and as other uncollared wolves potentially move into the area from other states.
By Suleiman Al-Khalidi

AMMAN (Reuters) - Jordanian anti-riot police beat and arrested dozens of demonstrators trying to march towards the heavily guarded Israeli embassy in the capital Amman, witnesses and residents said on Wednesday.

More than two thousand protesters gathered late on Tuesday, the third day of demonstrations which have been marred with clashes, after baton wielding police pushed back hundreds of angry crowds seeking to storm the embassy compound in the affluent Rabae district of Amman.

The Israeli embassy, where protesters gather daily, has long been a flashpoint of anti-Israel protests at times of escalation of violence between Palestinians and Israel.

Many demonstrators chanted slogans in support of the militant Islamist Hamas. Jordanian authorities are alarmed that Israel's bombing campaign in Gaza could broaden the popularity of the Hamas movement among many Jordanians.

"Oh Hamas...All of Jordan's people are behind you," the protesters chanted.

Passions have run high among Jordanians, many of whom are of Palestinian origin, over the carnage in Gaza as Israel's relentless bombing campaign against Hamas has led to tens of thousands of civilian deaths, according to Gaza officials, and flattened many parts of the densely populated enclave.

Jordan has seen some of the biggest outpourings of public anger in the region since the war was triggered when Hamas fighters crossed into southern Israel on Oct.7 , killing 1,200 people and capturing 253 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

Authorities in Jordan say peaceful protests are allowed but they would not tolerate any attempt by mobs who sought to exploit anger against Israel to create havoc or try to reach a border zone with the Israeli occupied West Bank or Israel.

Amnesty International last month called on Jordanian authorities to end what it said was a sweeping crackdown that has seen hundreds of people arrested for expressing their support for Palestinians in Gaza or criticising Jordanian government polices towards Israel.

Many demonstrators slam perceived inaction by authorities, saying their compatriots in Gaza were being left to face Israel's military might alone.

Jordan's peace treaty with Israel is widely unpopular among many citizens who see normalisation as betraying the rights of their Palestinian compatriots.

(Reporting by Suleiman Al-Khalidi; Editing by Michael Perry)
(Reuters) -The United States on Wednesday announced sanctions on six individuals and two entities based in Russia, China and the United Arab Emirates, accusing them of channeling funds to North Korea's weapons programs.

South Korea, a U.S. ally, also imposed sanctions on four of the same six individuals and the two entities.

A U.S. Treasury Department statement and South Korea's foreign ministry said the action was taken in coordination between the two countries.

It named the six individuals as Yu Pu Ung, Ri Tong Hyok, Han Chol Man, O In Chun, Jong Song Ho and Jon Yon Gun.

The entities to be hit with sanctions were Alis LLC, based in Vladivostok, Russia, and UAE-based Pioneer Bencont Star Real Estate.

The statement said both firms were subordinate to Chinyong Information Technology Cooperation Co, an entity associated with North Korea's armed forces.

Seoul's foreign ministry said the sanctions target not only individuals directly involved but also those who aided North Korea's illegal financial activities, particularly those earning foreign currency in the information technology sector abroad.

Yu Pu Ung, who laundered money and supplied sensitive materials used to develop North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, was responsible for managing the funds, the ministry said in a statement.

The Treasury Department said Chinyong, which was placed under U.S. sanctions in May 2023, uses a network of companies and representatives to manage delegations of North Korean IT workers operating in Russia and Laos.

The announcement came after the United States and South Korea this week launched a new task force aimed at preventing North Korea from procuring illicit oil, as a deadlock at the United Nations Security Council casts doubts over the future of international sanctions on Pyongyang.

Years of U.S.-led international sanctions have failed to halt North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile programs, and many North Korea watchers and sanctions experts consider the U.N. regime moribund, if not already dead.

(Reporting by Ismail Shakil in Ottawa and Hyunsu Yim in Seoul; Editing by Bill Berkrot and Stephen Coates)
The U.S.-Israel alliance took a hit this week when the United States failed to veto a United Nations Security Council resolution over the Israel-Hamas war.

The contentious decision and the subsequent Israeli response provide insights into the domestic matters President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are facing.

Biden has repeatedly supported Israel's right to self-defense following the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks in southern Israel, but he has faced consistent pressure from more progressive wings of the party to stop Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Despite the Biden administration's insistence that Israel should do more to protect Palestinian civilians and allow more aid to get into the strip, Palestinian supporters have said the U.S. should cease its military sales to Israel and pursue an immediate and permanent ceasefire agreement.

The president, who will face off against former President Donald Trump in November's general election, has seen his poll numbers take a dip over the course of the war. He faced write-in campaigns in various primary contests, particularly in battleground states, by progressives protesting the administration's stance on the war, a clear warning they could decide the outcome of the election.

On Monday, the U.S. opted to abstain from a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an "immediate ceasefire" because it did not condemn Hamas for carrying out the attack that killed roughly 1,200 Israelis and prompted the Israeli military response.

"Is this Joe Biden's desperate attempt to pander to the far Left of his party? Certainly, a lot of us think yes," Danielle Pletka, a senior fellow with the American Enterprise Institute, told the Washington Examiner. "I think this is more the apotheosis of what has been a gradual turn of the Democratic Party away from Israel."

Pletka added, "I think that what you're seeing is the White House is desperately flailing to appease" the progressive wing of the party that has continued to criticize his response to the war.

U.S. officials, in the aftermath of the vote, said it did not represent a shift in their stance on the war, even though they had blocked the passage of two previous U.N. resolutions on the war. Israeli leaders excoriated the U.S., but it also comes at a tenuous time for Netanyahu, who faces his own domestic pressure.

Netanyahu has a history of picking verbal fights with U.S. leaders to bolster his standing within the country and to rally splintering factions around him. In this case, the Israeli leader is looking to rally domestic support because, as Netanyahu's office argued, the resolution the U.S. allowed to pass "gives Hamas hope that international pressure will force Israel to accept a ceasefire without the release of our hostages, thus harming both the war effort and the effort to release the hostages."

He canceled a visit of his top advisers to the U.S. in protest of their abstention.

"He is setting up a situation where he can blame the U.S. for holding him back in Rafah from finishing the job with Hamas and keeping Israel from obtaining its goals," Daniel C. Kurtzer, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel now at Princeton University, told the New York Times. "And if he does go in, he can argue that he's the only Israeli leader who can withstand American pressure."

Netanyahu is facing domestic pressure regarding securing the hostages' release, and he's suffering other headaches that predate the war.

Everyone in Israel is required to serve in the military followed by years in reserve duty, as has been the case since the country's formation in 1948, but exemptions have also been provided to the most religious men of their communities, known as Haredi, so they could focus on their Torah studies full time.

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Israel's war in Gaza has created a more urgent need to bolster its ranks, and the ultra-orthodox communities in Israel have a high birth rate, which means the number of men exempted from military service has increased over time. Israel's continued exemption for Haredi men has been a source of frustration for secular Israelis long before Oct. 7, though the prolonged war has heightened the matter.

Roughly 66,000 men from the Haredi community in Israel received an exemption from military service over the last year, the Times of Israel reported, citing the Israel Defense Forces' personnel directorate.

The Israeli Supreme Court set a deadline of the end of March for Netanyahu to present a military draft plan, according to NPR. Israel would not legally be allowed to authorize these exemptions if the government doesn't come up with a path forward before the end of the month. Whether he backed their continued exemptions or not, Netanyahu will face opposition that threatens his governing coalition.

Conservative Israelis, including the Haredi community, want to continue the long-standing policy of exempting Haredi men from mandatory service. The proponents of extending it include important members of Netanyahu's governing coalition, whereas his opponents, including those within the war cabinet, have called for gradual increases in Haredim doing military service.

Minister Benny Gantz and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant  who, with Netanyahu, comprise the war cabinet  have criticized the possibility of extending the blanket exemptions for military service. The former threatened to leave the war cabinet over the matter. The latter, who traveled to Washington, D.C., this week to meet with U.S. officials, said he would only support a proposal that is agreed on by all factions.

Israeli hard-liners in Netanyahu's party also hold influence over him as they could threaten his hold on power and force sooner-than-anticipated elections. But they and the war cabinet, Netanyahu included, are committed to the defeat of Hamas to ensure Israel's lasting security.

Israeli leaders have maintained that their forces need to conduct full-scale military operations in the southern city of Rafah, which the U.S., among many others, believes is a bad idea that could result in significant civilian casualties. There are more than a million Palestinian civilians who fled south, as the Israeli forces urged them to do, but now, they are concentrated in the last remaining area in which Israel hasn't conducted significant military operations to defeat Hamas.

The Israeli Washington-bound delegation that was scrapped at the last minute was to hear alternative ideas of how to defeat Hamas in Rafah without carrying out full-scale operations.

Gallant still traveled to Washington this week, and he met with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and national security adviser Jake Sullivan despite the cancellation of the separate visit.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

"There are ideas that relate to sequencing, ideas that relate to the prioritization of humanitarian assistance getting in and civilians pulling out. There are ideas that relate to communication between Israel and Egypt and that relate to ensuring the Egypt-Gaza border is secure and not a source of smuggling of terrorists out or weapons into Gaza. Then, there are ideas relating to the precision-targeting of Hamas," according to a senior U.S. defense official.

More broadly, the two leaders continue to view the "day after" very differently. Biden believes the best way to secure a safe future for Israel is the creation of a Palestinian state, but Netanyahu disagrees and has criticized the Biden administration's support for the Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza after the war.
With the Supreme Court appearing to be skeptical about tightening restrictions on an abortion pill, Democrats are hitting vulnerable Republicans on their anti-abortion stances.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee sent out 14 press releases reminding voters about the records several Republicans have on abortion rights. The DCCC is targeting Republicans in swing districts with voting records that do not support access to abortion.

The releases are formulaic, beginning with the representative's name and a list of reasons voters who support abortion access should oppose them returning to Congress.

REMINDER: David Schweikert Pioneered Same Legislation As the Anti-Abortion Groups Currently in Front of Supreme Court, one release said.

The DCCC launched the campaign as the Supreme Court heard a case that could restrict access to the abortion pill mifepristone.

As the U.S. Supreme Court hears oral arguments that could pave the way toward a national abortion ban by severely restricting access to the medication mifepristone, Juan Ciscomani and House Republicans have been simultaneously mounting a multiple front attack on reproductive freedoms in America, another release said.

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Reps. David Schweikert (R-AZ) and Juan Ciscomanis (R-AZ) names could be replaced with any of the other 12 names and the release would have a similar sentiment.

Democrats are targeting districts like Schweikerts. He represents Arizonas newly redrawn 1st District, which has voted increasingly blue over the years. In 2022, Schweikert narrowly maintained his seat by around 3,000 votes.

Other Republican representatives being targeted by the DCCCs list include Reps. Ken Calvert (R-CA), John Duarte (R-CA), Mike Garcia (R-CA), Kevin Kiley (R-CA), Michelle Steel (R-CA), David Valadao (R-CA), John James (R-MI), Scott Perry (R-PA), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Bryan Steil (R-WI), Brandon Williams (R-NY), and Ryan Zinke (R-MT).

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

The barrage comes off the back of Democrats picking up several victories when they tout access to abortion as a primary plank of their campaign.

A vote for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris is a vote to restore Roe, and a vote for Donald Trump is a vote to ban abortion across the country, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, Bidens campaign manager, said in January. These are the stakes in 2024.
Vice President Kamala Harris is leading the charge to boost enrollment in a program that allows most student loans to never be repaid in full.

Wednesday is the Biden administration's "SAVE Day of Action," designed to promote the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan under which monthly student loan payments are as low as $0 for lower-income borrowers and loans can be written off completely after as little as 10 years.

"President Biden and I know that far too many people in our nation are struggling with student loan debt," Harris said. "That is why we have forgiven nearly $144 billion for almost four million Americans while also creating the SAVE Plan so that millions of people can cut their payments in half or entirely."

More than 40 other organizations are participating, according to the White House, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Service Employees International Union, who are promoting the plan as well.

However, the SAVE Plan was not approved by Congress and has generated controversy because any unpaid debts fall on taxpayers.

"From a policy perspective, the SAVE plan is a disaster," said the CATO Institute's Andrew Gillen. "It will cost taxpayers $475 billion just over the next ten years."

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SAVE adjusts previous income-driven repayment programs by reducing student loan payments from 10% to 5% of income, increasing the income exemption from payment from 150% to 225% of the poverty line, and reducing the length of repayment from 20 years to 10 years for some borrowers. Some scholars have argued it effectively turns student loans into untargeted grants.

But Gillen acknowledged that it's a good deal for anyone taking out the loans.

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"From an individual perspective, there is nothing a student loan borrower can do about that," he said. "So as long as the program is up and running, borrowers should take advantage of it."

The Biden White House is hosting an event at 9:30 to promote the program, featuring Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, White House Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden, Director of the Office of Public Engagement Stephen Benjamin, and other senior administration officials.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre hung up on a North Carolina radio host Tuesday, after the host dared to ask whether President Joe Biden had dementia.

Jean-Pierre called the question from WBTs Mark Garrison offensive and insulting, highlighting that the presidents physician has laid out a comprehensive report on the presidents health.

I can't even believe you're asking me this question. That is an incredibly offensive question to ask, Jean-Pierre said. Let me be very clear about this. For the past several years, the president's physician has laid out in a comprehensive way the president's health. This is a president who if you watch him every day, if you really pay attention to his record and what he has done, you will see exactly how focused he's been on the American people, how historic his actions have been. And so I'm not even going to truly, truly, really, you know, take the premise of your question. I think it is incredibly insulting.

The press secretary requested the next question, which she also firmly answered, regarding gas and grocery prices. Garrison questioned how the president can expect to win votes when voters have less disposable income.

When the president walked into this administration, there were multiple problems happening, Jean-Pierre said. But the president took action on gas prices. Let's not forget, the Russian invasion of Ukraine skyrocketed prices of gas, and because the president took action we are in a different place than we were a year ago on gas prices. Eggs, milk, seafood products, all the important groceries -- those prices have gone down because of what this president has been able to do. And with that, thank you so much Mark, have an amazing day.

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Jean-Pierre then hung up the phone, leaving Garrison and another radio host stunned.

Wow, wow, wow. I mean, Mark, is this? Listen, I am nominating you to get a press corps badge, and you need to go to the White House, the other host said. Im sorry, but you asked three, four incredibly salient, important questions that are all front of mind. Nothing out of bounds. No baba booeying or anything like that. Right? And you did it exactly right on. I dont understand the fragility of this person.

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The interview comes after critics of the 81-year-old president have expressed concern over his mental capability to serve another four years as the commander-in-chief. However, a summary of the physicals findings by the presidents physician Dr. Kevin OConnor in February noted that Biden continues to be fit for duty and fully executes all of his responsibilities without any exemptions or accommodations.

If Biden is reelected in November, he would be 86 when he leaves office. If former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, wins in November then he would be 82 when leaving office.
States concerned about the unresolved border crisis have taken matters into their own hands and are following Texass strategy to deter illegal immigrants from their jurisdictions by allowing local police to arrest and deport them.

A handful of states have begun to move or attempted unsuccessfully to move their own versions of Texas law, S.B. 4, since the Supreme Court temporarily allowed Texas to implement the law last week.

The only successful state in that short period has been Iowa, but others are moving swiftly to send a message that they are not open for business to illegal immigrants crossing the border under President Joe Biden, the opposite of how sanctuary cities like New York City and Chicago initially claimed to be open to assisting before they were inundated by a couple hundred thousand people since 2022.

The Texas law effectively created a state version of a federal immigration law and, in doing so, allows state and local police to enforce the state immigration law. Until now, nonfederal police have not been allowed to carry out immigration enforcement because immigration laws were federal policies, reserved for law enforcement at U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agencies. The new law also permits local judges to order an illegal immigrant in custody to be deported.

John Sandweg, the former acting director of ICE during the Obama administration, said the Supreme Court ruling to allow Texas to enforce its law sent a message to other states that it might not strike down similar laws should they be challenged in court.

This is groundbreaking, Sandweg said in an interview on NewsNation last week. The Supreme Court for the first time has recognized  now let me be clear, this is a temporary decision, so mind you, they just lifted an injunction; theres always the possibility that the circuit court blocks this permanently or the Supreme Court ultimately blocks it but  for the moment Texas has a green light to enforce its own immigration laws. And I have to tell you, I would certainly expect other states to follow suit quickly.

Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) has indicated she will sign a bill that would allow state and local police to arrest and charge illegal immigrants who have previously been deported from the country or had a record of previously being arrested for attempting to cross the national border illegally.

The law is slated to take effect July 1 and would make illegal reentry an aggravated misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in county jail.

States have stepped in to secure the border, preventing illegal migrants from entering our country and protecting our citizens, Reynolds said. Americans deserve nothing less. I look forward to signing SF 2340 into law.

Lina Hidalgo, judge for Houston's Harris County, objected to the idea that a nonborder state has a legitimate need for an immigration law.

"Iowa just passed something," Hidalgo said in a recent interview on CNN. "[There is] no reason why Iowa needs to be worried about undocumented migrants crossing their border, but it just tells you this is about politics."

State lawmakers in the Midwest are keen on disincentivizing immigrants released at the border from heading to that region, but so are lawmakers elsewhere.

Missouri lawmakers have four bills moving through the state legislature, including one backed by gubernatorial candidate, state Sen. Bill Eigel, which would make it illegal for illegal immigrants to enter the state. "Improper entry" would be punishable by deportation and a $100,000 fine with tougher penalties for repeat offenders.

A Kansas state senator wants to reintroduce S.B. 522, which would make it a crime to enter Kansas as an illegal immigrant.

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Up north, New Hampshire's Senate passed a bill earlier this month that would charge illegal immigrants with trespassing and give law enforcement authority to arrest suspected illegal immigrants who are found on private property.

In the Bayou, the Louisiana state Senate has referred a similar bill to committee for consideration. The bill would make entering the state as an illegal immigration a crime, punishable by one year in jail, a $4,000 fine, or both.

Arizona faces its own unusual situation. Earlier this month, Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs refused to greenlight a bill that would have made it a state crime for illegal immigrants to enter from Mexico. The House is considering two similar bills, as is the Senate.

Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL), a former 2024 GOP presidential candidate, has not had an identical bill to the Texas law make it to his desk yet but has recently enacted two bills that lengthen sentences for illegal immigrants who are convicted of driving without a license or charged with a felony.

Texas's S.B. 4 was introduced by Republican state Sen. Charles Perry and Republican state Rep. David Spiller and passed during the state legislatures fourth special session in 2023.

Despite it potentially putting state and federal law enforcement at an impasse in terms of how both could be carrying out similar enforcement objectives, the head of the Border Patrol union had endorsed the state law.

Border Patrol agents nationwide, not just in Texas, are grateful for Gov. Abbotts leadership and willingness to recognize that it is the rule of law that keeps all Americans safe, National Border Patrol Council President Brandon Judd said at the bill signing.

The Justice Department sued in early January, delaying its start. The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas and the Texas Civil Rights Project also sued Texas on behalf of the Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center, American Gateway, and El Paso County in Texas. The two lawsuits were merged into one.

U.S. District Judge David Ezra temporarily blocked the law from taking effect on Feb. 29 on the basis that it was unconstitutional to allow nonfederal police to carry out a task that mirrored federal law. Texas appealed that decision to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

The state has targeted the border crisis aggressively since it began in early 2021 when Biden took office and ended Trump administration immigration protocols.

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Abbott has deployed 10,000 National Guard soldiers and Department of Public Safety officers to the border since 2021 to help apprehend immigrants who cross the border illegally and attempt to get away.

Over the past three years, Texas itself has apprehended more than half a million illegal immigrants. Immigrants are turned over to federal Border Patrol agents.
From black bears and mountain lions to bald eagles and bighorn sheep, Colorado has no shortage of magnificent, diverse wildlife. However, due to factors including habitat loss, some have been listed as endangered or threatened species.

Here's a look at some endangered and threatened species found in Colorado:

1. Whooping Crane

As the tallest bird in North America, whooping cranes are 50 to 56 inches in height and have a wingspan of 87 to 90 inches, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). These birds are white overall with red facial skin, and live in mudflats around reservoirs and in agricultural areas.

The whooping crane is federally and state endangered. CPW states that there are 260 individuals, 150 in the wild and 110 in captivity. According to the United States Geological Survey, the main reasons why whooping cranes are endangered are habitat loss and past "rampant, unregulated hunting for their meat and feathers." It's also worth noting that the birds are monogamous, forming life-long bonds, typically laying two eggs two days apart each year.

2. Lynx

These medium-sized wild cats are federally threatened and state endangered. According to CPW, lynx actually disappeared from Colorado in the early 1970s. However, in the 1990s, CPW started a seven year effort to reintroduce the animals into the San Juan Mountains. The reintroduction was successful. CPW reports that 150-250 lynx now live in Colorado.

3. Bonytail Fish

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These fish are endangered at both the state and federal level. According to CPW, the bonytail is the rarest of the endangered native fish of the Colorado River. The silver and gray fish has large fins and a streamlined body, making it an elegant swimmer. It is thought to have evolved around 3-5 million years ago.

According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, threats to bonytail include streamflow regulation, habitat modification, competition with and predation by non-native species. Hybridization is also a factor.

4. Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse

This rare mammal is threatened at the federal and state level. It lives in dense riparian vegetation along the Front Range. Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse are about nine inches long, including their five and a half-inch tails. They're difficult to observe, as they hibernate for eight months of the year. According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, decline in the extent and quality of the Preble's habitat is the main factor threatening the species.

5. Boreal Toad

Endangered at the state level, this boreal toad is Colorado's only alpine species of toad. The toad is distributed throughout the Rocky Mountains at elevations between 8,500 and 11,500 feet, and can be found in the vicinity of mountain lakes, ponds, meadows, and wetlands in subalpine forest. The toads appear warty and usually have a light stripe down their backs.

According to CPW, the main cause of decline for these toads is the amphibian chytrid fungus. Colorado listed the species as endangered in 1993.
A pickup slid from a highway and collided with Lebanons visitors center and chamber of commerce last week, the second time a vehicle has crashed into the 75-year-old building in 13 months.

Lebanon Chamber of Commerce CEO Rebecca Grizzle said she was asleep a little after 8 p.m. Friday when a police department official called.

A Place to Sleep, episode 5: Lebanon How did the last couple of elections change the way East Linn County interacts with its unhoused residents?

They said, Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the Chamber of Commerce has been hit  again, Grizzle said.

Police believe an 18-year-old Lebanon man was driving a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 too quickly on wet asphalt when it left Highway 20 around 8 p.m. March 22, near where the roadway splits into northbound Park Street and southbound Main Street.

The pickup crashed nose-first into the about-1,000-square-foot cinder block structure, smashing a recently rebuilt wall.

If there was a place that he was going to drive through, this was the place, Grizzle said.

Responders from the Lebanon Fire District helped put sheets of plywood over the hole, Grizzle said, and someone eventually removed the pickup from the scene.

The gentleman was hauled off, of course, Grizzle said.

DUII

Lebanon police officers arrested Jesus Hilario Cabuto on the suspicion of driving under the influence of intoxicants after testing his blood alcohol concentration at 0.15%, according to a report.

(Cabuto) was under the influence of alcohol and negotiated the corner too fast and lost control and crashed into the building, an officer stated in the report.

The report estimates $2,500 or more in damage to the building.

A contractor was already rebuilding the chamber headquarters after a crash soon after midnight on March 1, 2023.

Thats when Johnathan Michael Davis lost control of an SUV as he raced another vehicle. The SUV hopped backward over a curb and slammed into the visitors center, then spun and hit the building again.

A security camera captured footage as Davis put the car in gear and drove away. Linn County Circuit Court Judge Michael Wynhausen sentenced Davis in January to 18 months of probation and 10 days in jail on charges of criminal mischief and failing to report the crash.

Just like before, the camera spotted the pickup traveling over a grass strip, through a parking lot, and into the side of the chamber headquarters.

Unlike the previous collision, someone immediately called police, who showed up just minutes later.

Grizzle said she doesnt believe any vehicle hit the building in the years between its construction in 1950 as an Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles office and 2023.

Never, since its been built, she said. And then twice in one year. It blows my mind.

Rebuild

The first collision set off a nearly yearlong and $404,000 process to redesign the chamber headquarters with glass partitions, cedar siding and an enclosed patio area. Lebanons nonprofit business booster is trying to re-open by the start of the Lebanon Strawberry Festival on May 30.

The contractor, JR Ellis Construction, had to replace wiring and moldy ceiling insulation, pushing the project close to its budgeted contingency.

Were going to be cutting it very, very close, Grizzle said.

To fund the rebuild, Linn County elected leaders approved a $70,000 grant and the Lebanon City Council approved another $100,000 in hotel tax revenue.

Now Grizzles looking for a contractor who will install post-like bollards in front of the center. An employee will work behind a desk close to where both vehicles smashed through the wall.

Were going to fix that  its clearly so vulnerable, Grizzle said.

Vehicles made an average 8,275 trips past the chamber every day in 2022, according to Oregon Department of Transportation data.

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Grizzle said she considered placing relatively low-cost boulders near the edge of the chamber property to stop vehicles from crossing the parking lot but changed her mind because big rocks could actually serve as ramps for vehicles with bigger tires.

So you would be airborne when you hit the chamber, she said.

Related stories:
A former executive of The Three-Body Universe has been sentenced to death for the fatal poisoning of the parent company Yoozoo Group's founder in a case that has shaken the gaming industry, the sci-fi community and the public.

Xu Yao, former CEO of The Three-Body Universe, appears in court to hear his sentencing in Shanghai, March 22, 2024. [Photo courtesy of the Shanghai First Intermediate People's Court]

Lin Qi, 39, chairman, founder and chief executive officer of Yoozoo Group, died on Dec. 25, 2020 after being poisoned by his colleague Xu Yao. Xu was detained by police on Dec. 18 of that year. On March 22, 2024, the Shanghai First Intermediate People's Court found Xu guilty and sentenced him to death for intentional homicide and the use of toxic substances.

The court said Xu poisoned Lin and 4 other colleagues for a period of three months in 2020 because of differences and conflicts in "company management matters."

The verdict added: "His motive for the crime was extremely despicable, the means of the crime were extremely vile, the harmful consequences were extremely serious and the subjective malignancy was extremely significant, therefore he should be severely punished in accordance with the law."

Upon hearing the verdict, Zhao Jilong, the current CEO of The Three-Body Universe, a subsidiary of Yoozoo Group, posted a few words on his WeChat account: "Justice has been served." Zhao, who was also a victim in this case and recovered, had differences with Xu regarding the development of China's sci-fi crown jewel, "The Three-Body Problem."

It is not yet known if Xu will appeal. Yoozoo Group declined to comment on the case.

According to a previous investigative report by business magazine Caixin Weekly, Lin's case was extraordinarily dramatic, involving toxic substances that were disguised as probiotic health pills.

As CEO of The Three-Body Universe, Xu's role was diminished by Lin in favor of Zhao, leading to a significant salary cut and impending termination. Amidst this, Xu, a legal expert fascinated with the American TV series "Breaking Bad," reportedly experimented with poisons on animals and used over 160 phone numbers to anonymously purchase chemicals.

"My impression of Xu was that he seemed nice personally, but I felt he had an iron grip in his business approach and no bottom line," former Yoozoo employee Lin Jiandong told China.org.cn.

After Lin's death, the company's leadership was shaken and changed, falling under the management of Shanghai Jiayou Enterprise Management Partnership (Limited Partnership). This shift in control occurred when Lin Qi's three children and their legal guardians intended to transfer the heirs' 12.34% shares to Shanghai Jiayou in 2023.

File photo of Lin Qi in 2017. [Photo courtesy of Yoozoo Group]

Since founding Yoozoo Group in 2009, Lin Qi became a notably young billionaire in China due to the company's success in the online gaming industry, particularly with hits like "Game of Thrones: Winter Is Coming." In 2014, expanding into film with Yoozoo Pictures, Lin acquired the film and TV adaptation rights to Liu Cixin's Hugo Award-winning sci-fi trilogy "The Three-Body Problem," and ambitiously planned to invest 1.2 billion yuan ($166.25 million) in six "Three-Body" films. However, following the disastrous failure of the first film, which was shelved and never released in theaters, and several executive resignations, Yoozoo purchased all copyrights to "The Three-Body Problem" for 120 million yuan in 2018. Subsequently, it launched a new subsidiary, The Three-Body Universe, to salvage the project and pursue new opportunities.

The film adaptation, franchise and merchandise development of "The Three-Body Problem" were among Lin's greatest dreams and ambitions when he was alive. Now, the "Three-Body" saga spans publishing, film, TV, animation, digital ventures, exhibitions and more, amassing a co-branded consumer market value at over 2 billion yuan, according to Zhao Jilong. Thus, The Three-Body Universe has evolved into a significant and lucrative business. In September of 2020 , the company granted Netflix the rights to develop an English-language original series called "3 Body Problem." Coincidentally, the Netflix adaptation premiered globally on March 21, just one day before Xu's sentencing.
The United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunhua, a Taiwan-based Buddhist organization, donated 30 ancient statues to the National Cultural Heritage Administration at a ceremony held in Beijing on Monday.

The ancient statues had been lost overseas and found by collectors from Taiwan. The oldest of them dates back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279), according to the association.

Taiwan compatriots have made great efforts to preserve Chinese cultural heritage and promote the Chinese culture, said Song Tao, head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, at the ceremony.

The glorious Chinese culture stands as the origin, the pride, the treasure and the soul shared by people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, he said, calling on them to jointly uphold the overall interests of the Chinese nation.

The guests from Taiwan present at the ceremony included Venerable Hsin Bao, who is the head abbot of Fo Guang Shan and chair of the association.

They expressed the hope that the return of these statues would bring a message of peace and harmony across the Strait, and that people on both sides would engage in more exchanges, build up mutual trust and goodwill, and promote the Chinese culture together.
Patricia Teggatz has been selected to be the 2024 Iowa Cherry Blossom Princess, representing the state during the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., it was announced in a press release.

The Cherry Blossom Princess Program offers cultural, educational and professional development opportunities for young women leaders. Founded in 1948, the week-long program is a cultural exchange aimed at honoring the friendship fostered by the gift of the cherry blossom trees to the United States from Japan over a century ago.

Throughout the program, young women are recognized for their leadership and accomplishments and given the opportunity to engage with foreign diplomats, first ladies, presidents, members of congress and other business and community leaders to help strengthen bilateral relations on behalf of their state or territory. One young woman is then chosen to serve as the United States Cherry Blossom Queen, traveling to Japan to further strengthen the friendship between the two nations.

Teggatz was selected by the Iowa State Society to be the Iowa Cherry Blossom Princess Delegate in the upcoming 2024 National Society of States Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., taking place April 7 through April 13.

She is a graduate of Hampton-Dumont High School and the University of Iowa. She is currently living in Washington, D.C. and working as an executive mission aviator in the Air Force. She is the daughter of Tom and Sue Teggatz of Hampton.
You can feel it.

Theres excitement in the air, a growing sense of community pride, and a together we can do anything attitude. A week doesnt pass without hearing someone say, I love living here or Im so incredibly proud of this town. Weve caught the wave of progress, and coupled with great leadership, passion, and a sense of unity, Clear Lake is capitalizing on it.

Last year, we cut the ribbon on the Everybody Plays Inclusive Playground, rededicated our beautifully restored Seawall, and landed a Destination Iowa Placemaking grant for the Surf District that will surely be one of the most significant capital investments in our community's history. So significant, Debi Durham, the director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, called the Surf District project the best in the state.

The entire district around the Surf Ballroom, one of 27 National Historic Landmarks in Iowa, will be transformed by inviting streetscapes, a boardwalk connecting the Surf to the lake, and a state-of-the-art Music Enrichment and Immersive Center. These investments and other private investments will not only honor the legacy of the three stars, but they will also keep the music alive in Clear Lake well into the future.

Along with these pivotal projects, Clear Lake also has seen significant progress in housing. Three housing development projects are underway or in the works with more brewing behind the scenes. Truly an indicator that Clear Lake is the place to be, and soon more people will have the opportunity to call Clear Lake home. And Id be remiss not to mention our nationally recognized schools that are dedicated to ensuring a high level of learning for all, which also add to the appeal to make Clear Lake home.

As the Chamber of Commerce, we strive to be the champion for business success and quality of life, creating a thriving destination and driving community prosperity. We are most known for hosting several signature events throughout the year. Events like Color the Wind, Thursdays on Main, and the beloved Fourth of July celebration, among others. Weve seen remarkable growth in almost every season. More and more people are discovering the Clear Lake we know and love which ultimately contributes to our growing economic vitality.

Looking ahead, its important for us to keep the excitement and positivity flowing. With the support of our community, members, and partners, we will continue to make Clear Lake a premier place to live, visit, and do business. United, let's embrace the opportunities ahead. Grab your sunglasses, Clear Lake's future is not just bright, it's blazing.
Progress. What a perfect word to describe the efforts in North Iowa over the past year.

While there have been many economic challenges impacting the national landscape, our communities have continued to forge ahead to make significant progress on many key priorities, while laying the foundation for exciting developments to come in the year ahead.

The North Iowa Corridors mission is to create economic growth and prosperity for Mason City, Clear Lake, and the greater Cerro Gordo County region. Its primary activities serve that purpose: business retention and recruitment, workforce development, and housing. In the past year our communities have facilitated numerous business expansions, developed new housing, and made major investments to provide the quality-of-life amenities that will serve our citizens and guests for decades to come.

Business expansion

The year 2023 saw several significant business developments and announcements by new and existing North Iowa businesses. There was growth across most sectors, from manufacturing and warehousing to retail and hospitality. A few highlights:

New Energy Freedom -- A $350 million cellulosic ethanol and renewable plastics research facility announced in partnership with Dow Chemical, expected to create more than 50 new jobs by 2027.

-- A $350 million cellulosic ethanol and renewable plastics research facility announced in partnership with Dow Chemical, expected to create more than 50 new jobs by 2027. Curries Manufacturing  A 10,000 square foot expansion of its manufacturing facility, bringing the addition of 50 or more new jobs.

 A 10,000 square foot expansion of its manufacturing facility, bringing the addition of 50 or more new jobs. Stellar Manufacturing -- Purchased MD Products in Mason City and has grown operations from 10 employees to 65 with plans for further expansion and addition of 50 more employees.

-- Purchased MD Products in Mason City and has grown operations from 10 employees to 65 with plans for further expansion and addition of 50 more employees. Sukup Manufacturing -- Purchased the former Serta facility in Clear Lake, adding 40 new jobs with continued growth expected.

-- Purchased the former Serta facility in Clear Lake, adding 40 new jobs with continued growth expected. Warehouse Distribution Project -- A $15 million facility creating 25 new jobs in development at Mason City Industrial Park. An announcement and groundbreaking are expected this summer.

The Corridor also is actively engaged with several large renewable fuel and manufacturing projects. Our regions infrastructure, quality of life, and proximity to major markets are highly desired, and it hopes to have more announcements in the year ahead. While the focus is on primary industries, communities also attracted significant retail expansion. A few highlights include: Old Navy, Ross, Five Below, Ulta Beauty, OReillys, Dollar General, Boulevard Restaurant, and Chik-fil-A will start construction this spring. This level of interest and development from national name brands is a great indicator of the strength of the local economy and builds on its role as a regional hub for retail and amenities.

Housing expansion

One of the biggest challenges facing communities across the nation is housing. Quality housing options are critical to attracting and retaining talent. It is projected that Iowa needs almost 25,000 units just to meet demand by 2030. The North Iowa Corridor Housing Development Corporation was created to take the lead on meeting the need by creating housing opportunities across the county. It will provide a vehicle for communities and businesses to meet housing needs and price points that are not financially feasible for the private sector.

The HDCs first project is in partnership with the city of Mason City, with three houses being moved from the former Blackmore Nursery area to formerly vacant lots owned by the city. The homes are being renovated and will be offered for sale in the coming months, with the proceeds to be reinvested into future housing projects.

In addition to those efforts, the Corridor continues to actively work with numerous housing developers to build significant new apartments and single-family housing. Since 2020, over 400 new units and over $50 million of investment have been built or are in development in Mason City and Clear Lake, including:

The River II Apartments -- Following the success of the original 133-unit facility, Talon Development began construction on phase 2, a 93-unit facility along Willow Creek in a former brownfield. The facility will open this spring.

-- Following the success of the original 133-unit facility, Talon Development began construction on phase 2, a 93-unit facility along Willow Creek in a former brownfield. The facility will open this spring. Emerald Edge Apartments -- New 98-unit apartment complex to begin construction in Clear Lake this spring.

-- New 98-unit apartment complex to begin construction in Clear Lake this spring. South Shore Estates -- Redevelopment of a former pasture in Clear Lake began last fall and will add 16 single-family homes and 16 twin-home units.

-- Redevelopment of a former pasture in Clear Lake began last fall and will add 16 single-family homes and 16 twin-home units. Federal Avenue Rowhomes -- New 11-unit apartment facility filling a formerly vacant lot in downtown Mason City, opening this summer.

-- New 11-unit apartment facility filling a formerly vacant lot in downtown Mason City, opening this summer. Emerald Edge Estates -- New 32-unit twin home development in Clear Lake, breaking ground in the spring.

-- New 32-unit twin home development in Clear Lake, breaking ground in the spring. Delaware Avene Apartments  New 36-unit apartment facility planned for downtown Mason City, breaking ground in the fall.

A vision for the future

Over the last year, the Corridor partnered with the cities of Mason City and Clear the Lake as well as Cerro Gordo County to develop the North Iowa Corridor Comprehensive Plan.

This strategic planning effort has included the input of over 1,000 community members throughout 2023 through surveys, community workshops and open houses, as well as focused committees. It is unique for three jurisdictions to partner in this way, but doing so helps to ensure that each is considering how their future development impacts the other. That is critical to developing in a complementary way to best meet the needs of the citizens and businesses of North Iowa.

The plan defines key partner roles to more effectively and efficiently use community resources to achieve desired outcomes. The latest drafts of the plan can be viewed at rdgusa.mysocialpinpoint.com/north-iowa-corridor-plan. Each city and the county are reviewing the plan and accepting input prior to consideration for approval by each jurisdiction in April/May.

As we reflect on the past year and look forward to the next, The Corridor celebrates the remarkable progress our communities have made through collaboration and innovation. For most years in most communities, any of these achievements would be a phenomenal accomplishment. We are proud of the strong leadership our communities have shown in bringing the vision of these projects to fruition and are excited for the promise of exciting developments to come.
From patrolling to processing crime scenes, as technology in the field of law enforcement continues to advance, local agencies have embraced those advancements and integrated them into their daily routine.

For the Mason City Police Department and the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff's Office, the implementation of both new and not-so-new technologies has lent itself to not only a more efficient workflow, but to enhanced public safety as well.

Recording devices

Since 2022 and 2017, the MCPD and sheriff's office have utilized their current body camera and audio recorder systems. Dash cams are also in use in every deputy and police vehicle. While not new to the world of law enforcement in general, the recording devices have proved themselves invaluable to officers and deputies in the field, as well as providing footage for prosecutors to help convict criminals.

In July 2022, the MCPD began utilizing Getac, a mobile video integration system, allowing officers to see video streaming from multiple cameras at once.

"We can put multiple screens on in our current Getac system," Mason City Police Chief Jeff Brinkley said. "The officer's (body) camera, their car front  160 degrees or whatever the camera catches  their back seat, and any other cameras we would have on the car, all in one screen."

According to Brinkley, the system helps ensure accuracy in incident reports filed by officers after responding to a scene. "Our officers review a lot of the video before they do their reports now, just to be certain they're right," Brinkley said. "That what they're writing is how they remembered it, and that [the incident] was how it worked out."

Cerro Gordo County Sheriff Kevin Pals said the Getac system used by the MCPD is not yet utilized by the sheriff's office, but is something the office is working toward implementing.

While the systems each agency uses vary, both Pals and Brinkley say the footage captured by audio and video recording systems are a boon for documenting incidents for public record.

The MCPD was able to stave off litigation by a disgruntled resident who had an encounter with an officer. Evidence from the officer's audio recorder cleared the department of wrongdoing.

"We were named in a civil suit two years ago and we were like, 'We didn't do anything wrong,'" Brinkley recalled. "I called the attorney and I was like, 'I've got the officer's report and the officer wore his body mic.' You can hear the entire conversation, and I said, 'Hey, I can tell you exactly what happened.'"

Brinkley said the suit was dropped within a few days of being filed.

The sheriff's office doesn't receive many complaints against its deputies, but the ones that have risen were quickly discounted.

"We don't have any valid officer complaints yet, because the camera's showing that the officer didn't do what they were accused of doing," Pals said.

In another instances, heroic measures have also been captured by body cams. Brinkley said such recordings are great for highlighting the work of officers in the field and also training officers, using the video to illustrate quick thinking and appropriate procedural tactics on the scene.

He pointed to an incident in which officers responded to the call of a Mason City farmer whose tractor overturned, pinning him underneath.

Officers Jim Redeker and Josh Madole and sergeants Ben VanDenBroeke and Terrance Prochaska were recognized with Mason City Life Saving Awards for their role in saving the life of Joey Shearman. They lifted the tractor off of Shearman as two bystanders, Merle and Kelly Brockshus, assisted in pulling the man from under the farm vehicle.

Pals said the use of cameras equally protects individuals involved with law enforcement should questions arise about the way incidents were handled.

"It keeps us (law enforcement) honest, too," said Pals.

Pals said since 2018, his deputies also use cellphone app called Ops, which allows responding officers to take photos in the field and immediately upload them to the incident's case file. The system allows for a smoother workflow, as deputies no longer have to carry camera equipment or spend time transferring images from a memory card to a computer.

Gunshot detection

Another tool acquired by the Mason City police force is a gunshot detection system. Running on solar energy, the system alerts law enforcement when a gunshot is detected within city limits. Brinkley said the system has receivers all across town, and not only pinpoints a gunshot's origin, but detects the gun's caliber. The system was installed in the wake of a number of gun-related crimes.

"[With the city's] uptick  in '21, '22  with the shootings, this was just a natural decision. We needed to do something," Brinkley said.

The detectors are just one component of a multifaceted system the department will utilize to mitigate gun violence in Mason City, with particular attention paid to the downtown area.

A series of cameras, device detectors, and license plate readers have been acquired to help solve  and Brinkley hopes, deter  violent crimes.

"A lot of it is focused over downtown. Where we have regular tourism (we'll have) regular videos just to provide an extra level of security and an investigative resource for us in the event something happens," Brinkley said.

The device detectors and license plate readers do not provide real-time information on any citizen, but will be used when reviewing crime scenes. Device detectors will provide a device ID, but no personal information can be gleaned from the system. The detectors will only indicate that a person with a cellphone or tablet was in the area. Because many people carry some type of device, the tool can help police determine whether a human was present at the time a call came in. Officers can more easily discern if an alarm system was tripped by a person or a glitch, or if there were possible witnesses to a given crime scene.

Similarly, Brinkley said, the license plate readers will not be used to gather real-time personal data. They only will be used as a research tool during investigations. The data may indicate any vehicles in the vicinity of a crime whose drivers may serve as a witness to goings on, or they could indicate whether a particular car was near a scene, should a witness come forward with a description or partial plate number.

Home security systems

Pals and Brinkley both expressed appreciation for residents using home security systems. The availability of affordable home cameras like Ring, which offers do-it-yourself installation, has led to more citizens ramping up home security efforts. The cameras deter would-be criminals, and footage from the cameras can be used to investigate crimes.

According to Pals and Brinkley, the more residents who have cameras, the better.

"We encourage everyone to have home cameras," Pals said. "I know recently, in the last couple of months, there's been some cases solved from home video."

Mental health

Early in 2023, the MCPD incorporated an emerging technology as a way to help de-escalate situations in which an individual is experiencing a mental health crisis.

An LVM Systems mental health screening app was installed on every officer's phone to help assess a person's behavior and provide logs of past incidents with subjects who've had repeat contact with police, allowing officers to see notes and previous condition reports on the person.

Brinkley said the app is used widely in Canada, but Iowa is only one of two states in the U.S. currently using it.

The app helps determine whether it is safe for an individual to be left by themselves, or if they need medical attention. Information about the individual's state of mind, behavior, and contributing factors such as drug or alcohol use is entered into the app. An assessment is made by the software and a score is calculated based on those factors, informing an officer's decision on how to handle the situation.

"The LVM is kind of to affirm for the officer that they're making the right decision," Brinkley said. "We're assessing: Are they a danger to themselves or others? And what's their ability to care for themselves?"

Should a subject need transport, the officer can notify local health centers through the app so a provider is able to immediately receive the person for care.
Unseasonably warmer weather this winter is helping construction progress on a new North Iowa child care facility.

According to a press release, Bin Town Child Care in Sheffield is slated to open to the public sometime this fall. The community is now being encouraged to get involved in the project.

In November 2023, the Sheffield Child Care Consortium, made up of West Fork School District, UBTC, and Sukup Manufacturing Co. broke ground at the site. This facility will help fulfill a need for childcare in rural parts of the state.

Community and Internal Communications Coordinator at Sukup Manufacturing Amy Fleming wants interested folks to know there's an active waiting list, the release said.

"This is not a Sukup employee center. All families in need of child care are encouraged to put their names on the waiting list. More than half of those already on the list are from Franklin County," Fleming said in a statement.

With that, the consortium has put out a call to donors.

"The first $1.25 million received in donations will be matched by a state grant," Fleming said. "Let's say you want to donate $500; that will become $1000 when the state matches your donation."

Bin Town Child Care is located at 442 South Gilman Street in Sheffield.

For those interested in donating, employment at Bin Town, or to add their name to the Bin Town Child Care waitlist visit https://info.sukup.com/sheffieldchildcare.
Leaders of the Fredericksburg disAbility Resource Center  longtime advocates for those with physical and intellectual impairments  want to add their voices to the ongoing discussions about medically assisted deaths.

Director Debra Fults and Deputy Director Seth Whitten fear legislation that would allow those with terminal illnesses to get drugs from doctors to end their lives could lead to a slippery slope that eventually might impact societys most vulnerable residents.

The concern is that you start with terminal illness, but how do you know it stays there? asked Whitten, who said hes been frustrated by attempts to express concerns, especially from the disability rights movement that had to fight so hard just to get a voice, just to be able to get curb cuts and lifts on buses. Its troubling to us.

The issue is complex and complicated. Proponents who say they want to ease the pain and suffering of those with terminal diseases call the movement medical aid in dying or dying with dignity. Those who oppose the action tend to refer to it as physician-assisted suicide or even euthanasia.

The measure is legal in Washington, D.C., and 10 states: California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont and Washington.

Its not currently allowed in Virginia, by any name, but is building momentum, according to the Death with Dignity website at deathwithdignity.org/states/virginia/.

Virginia made history in 2024 by pushing a Death with Dignity bill further than ever before, according to the website which praised chief sponsor, Sen. Ghazala Hashmi (D-Chesterfield), and Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton.

The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 21-19 and was continued until the 2025 legislative session by the House of Delegates.

While Whitten, a former legislative aide in the Alaska legislature, acknowledged the proposed legislation isnt attacking the disability community, he and Fults fear backers may not realize possible consequences.

I dont think theyre considering people with disabilities and how vulnerable they are of being coerced and helped along with a decision they may not make on their own, Fults added.

Thats exactly right, Whitten said.

But Hashmi, a legislative member of the Virginia Disability Commission, said on Friday that she would not carry the legislation if she had fears it would open doors for the coercion or abuse of disabled individuals.

She stressed that if the legislation becomes law, it will allow only those who are in the final stages of dying to control their own suffering and to control their final moments of life.

A disability is not a terminal illness. Depression is not a terminal illness, said the senator whos chair of the Senate Education and Health Committee.

In addition, she said there are more than a dozen safeguards to ensure the medical assistance is used only in specific situations.

Safeguards spell out the steps to be taken for those 18 and older, including two verbal requests from a patient to an attending physician, 15 days apart, followed by a written request; the formal diagnosis of a terminal illness; the determination that a patient is capable of making the decision without influence from outside sources; and an explanation of what the decision entails.

Whitten worries that those safeguards wont be enforced. He cites a report posted on the Journal of Medical Ethics website by writer David Jones who reviewed 25 years of data from Oregon, the first state to allow medically assisted death in 1997.

The report cited the increase of those who died with medical assistance, from 16 people in 1998 to 278 in 2022. Initially, almost one-third of those who sought the measure were referred for psychiatric evaluation, but the rate fell from 31% in 1998 to 1.1% in 2022.

The report also showed shifts in the reasons given for seeking assisted death. Instead of pain and suffering as the primary causes, people in 2022 cited financial concerns, the fear of being a burden or the loss of autonomy.

As the disability rights community  we fought for a long time to say its not undignified to need somebody to help you with your personal care, to help you go to the toilet or to help you bathe, Whitten said. These are the everyday experiences of millions of Americans, right?

He and Fults both fear a shift in the cultural landscape that could decrease the value of human life, an issue thats already of particular concern among the disability community.

Because of the way our society views disability and the way people with disabilities have internalized this notion that your life isnt as valuable, youre a burden, this can lead people to say Im gonna make that choice to die, Whitten said. While, sure, its their choice, again its this cultural landscape thats saying you guys arent worth as much as other people.

Fults pointed to movies, including Million Dollar Baby, that suggest that able-bodied people who suffer serious injuries have only one choice left to them: assisted suicide.

It gave the impression that those with a disability are better off dead, she said.
A Superior Court judge has granted the Greensboro Police Departments request for the release of body-worn camera recordings and video-mounted camera recordings capturing an officer-involved shooting on June 22, 2023.

The incident in the 1000 block of Tuscaloosa Street resulted in the death of Graham Thomas Roberson, 51, who was fatally shot by Officer John Corrigan.

The police request for release of the footage came after the Guilford County District Attorneys Office announced last month it would not seek charges against the officer.

Police said Tuesday they will release recordings to the community within 21 days, pursuant to the courts order.

Corrigan has said he fatally shot Roberson because Roberson aimed what appeared to be a black handgun at him. After firing, the officer also saw what appeared to be a silver gun tucked into Robersons waistband.

The weapons were later determined to be a black semi-automatic appearing BB gun and a silver toy revolver, the district attorneys office said in a February news release.

The encounter had begun shortly after midnight on June 22 when Corrigan responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle on Tuscaloosa Street.

Corrigan told investigators that a man walking in the street flagged him down.

Officer Corrigan stated that as he began to lower his front passenger window to speak with Roberson, he observed Roberson walking toward his patrol vehicle at an angle, the district attorneys news release said.

Officer Corrigan stated he observed Roberson had a black handgun in his left hand and was wearing a blue glove, so he was able to see a black handgun against the blue gloves.

Corrigan also told investigators that Roberson quickly transferred the handgun from his left hand to his right hand and pointed the handgun at him.

Corrigan drew his own handgun from his holster and discharged multiple rounds toward Roberson through the down front passenger window of his vehicle, the release said.

Corrigan was placed on administrative duty on the day of the shooting, as is standard protocol, and returned to regular duty after Police Chief John Thompson received the district attorneys decision.
For Garrison Keillor, its all about communion these days.

His voice is something of a balm, its familiar timbre and pacing warm and steady as he ponders how simple conversations between neighbors may be the strongest tool with which to repair major political clefts as the nation approaches a contentious presidential election.

The storyteller, humorist and former longtime host of the Minnesota Public Radio show, A Prairie Home Companion, Keillor is in the Carolinas this week touring his one-man show Garrison Keillor Tonight.

He will take the stage at the historic Carolina Theatre in downtown Greensboro on Thursday at 8 p.m.

I think we do what we need to do, and we need to talk to one another, said Keillor, who spent Palm Sunday at a Wilmington Baptist church seeking out chats with Republicans about taxes and such. The value is in family talking to family and friends talking to friends and standing up for what you think. Im here in Greenville, S.C., and my older sister, who is all in favor of Donald Trump, is here.

Keillor, 81, explained he is compelled to connect with his loved one despite their vast political differences.

She is a devout Baptist, and I believe there is nothing Baptist about Trump whatsoever, said Keillor, wryly.

Social media has contributed to the problem of Americans feeling alienated from one another, Keillor posited.

There is a deep, terrible division. I just dont think about it. I dont give up hope. I dont see any reason for fear. Social media makes the world smaller ... and that is so terribly, terribly unfortunate.

From radio to road show

On Thursday night, though, Keillor plans to unify his audience through song, he said during a Tuesday afternoon telephone interview from Greenville, where he was preparing for an evening show. In my show, I dont talk politics, he said.

Keillor will invite guests to share his performance, singing favorites from the Great American Songbook and hymns along with him, a capella.

Ill talk about the beauty of winter, the beauty of old age and do some poetry, Keillor said of the Greensboro show. What I really love is getting the audience to sing with me. Well start with My Country, Tis of Thee.

Because it is the South, I can sing, O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder ... and the audience will all come right in, Keillor said of the cue verse for the hymn, How Great Thou Art.

In the South, they know these songs. Its amazing to stand on stage and hear that. And they are overwhelmed by the beauty of it, and I am overwhelmed. Its very moving for me.

The act of performing together is a kind of emotional dovetailing that reminds us we are not so different from one another, Keillor said.

The message is there: We are one people and we know the same songs. My generation may be the last generation to know the songs.

Keillor has toured the stage version of his show since 2017. That year, his shows home, Minnesota Public Radio, severed its relationship with Keillor after a freelance writer for A Prairie Home Companion accused him of inappropriate behavior.

While the shows no longer air on Minnesota Public Radio, Keillor and the broadcaster reached a settlement that allowed the archives of A Prairie Home Companion, which ran from 1974 to 2016, to be made available to the public.

Hold the phone

I love the telephone, just as my mother did, said Keillor when asked how he feels about a world riddled with cellphones.

My mother, for the sake of my father, moved south to Florida and she had to stay in touch with her sister by phone, he said. I left Minnesota and moved to New York and there are 10 or 12 people I absolutely have to stay in touch with. But I think (the cellphone is) a problem for children, and I think that professionals are aware of this. And in schools where they forbid cellphones, kids do show a readiness to focus on learning. And this temptation is taken away. Parents, teachers, aunts and uncles have to be strict about this.

The peripatetic lifestyle of New York City suits the Minnesota native well, he said, noting that walks and subway rides place you in the important company of a diverse group of fellow human beings.

I have great hope for humanity, he said with a light chuckle. Americans still have a great sense of humor.

In the pink

Keillor, who underwent a heart operation a few years back, said he is doing well and walking often for exercise.

His cardiologist put him through a recent stress test and his new mitral valve, sourced from a pig, is functioning well, he said.

Of the pigs contribution to his longevity, Keillor said: I am grateful to him or to her.

He keeps the ticker busy.

You have to keep moving and you have to keep busy, Keillor said of aging. Its a good idea to get up and get dressed and go outside and walk until you start to feel a little bit out of breath, then turn around and walk back ... to be active as you can.

His life as a writer has helped enrich his long life, Keillor said.

You need to have a purpose, and a writer is very lucky in that you can keep working. I write two columns a week ... Im working on a novel and finished a book, Keillor explained. And my shows are more fun now than back when I was on the radio when I was in my 50s and 60s. I worked too hard back then and was away from family too often.

And while writing is important to Keillor, he doesnt force creativity.

Ive been a deadline writer all of my life. I started out on a newspaper in St. Paul. Im a writer who moves straight forward, and I know my strengths. Early morning is by far my best time, and after about 2 p.m. I can edit, but I cannot do much writing.

If words dont come, Keillor said dont sit and beat your head against the wall. You need to get up and get away. You dont want to focus so hard on something thats not coming that you exhaust yourself.

Known for his slightly crumpled sartorial prowess, Keillor said he may wear seersucker on Easter Sunday at his Episcopal church in New York City.

I should dress up and wear my blue seersucker suit with a red tie.

No matter his ensemble or locale, Keillor will try to connect, no doubt.

While at the Wilmington Baptist church last weekend, Keillor said he tried his best.

I heard a group of men talking and I walked over to them and I said, You sound like Republicans to me. Wed just been through mass and been absolved of our inequities. Then I said, Its a pleasure to hear you complaining about the government. You remind me of my uncles.
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The hilitai or monitor lizard was introduced to the island before European contact. It is black or dark green with yellow or white spots covering its body. It generally grows up to three feet in length and can be found in Guams dense jungle but frequently wanders into peoples yards.

Early Spanish encounters referred to the hilitai as an iguana, a large lizard found in Mexico. In the Naval Era of Guam, Lt. Governor William E. Safford noted that the hilitai were considered to be a nuisance to farmers because they ate birds, chickens, eggs and almost anything dead or alive. He also noted hilitais were eaten by Filipinos but were thought to be disgusting to eat by Chamorros.

A Chamorro story places the hilitai in high regard, however, as a representation of the islands natural beauty. And in the creation myth probably originating from the Spanish Era about Chaife, the hilitai is said to be one of the human souls animal transformations, enabling a soul to escape harm.

Historian Lawrence Cunningham tells that in the story of Chaife (god of wind, water and fire) the hilitai takes the form a human soul to escape the gods wrath. The god Chaife on Mt. Sasalaguan created souls from an oven fire, fueled by wood. In haste he over feeds the fire with wood and causes an explosion. A soul escapes into Fouha Bay and begins to take the form of a man.

Chaife, who had been searching in anger for his escaped soul, finds a human along the shore. He tries to destroy the human with a huge wave, believing it is his escaped soul, but the human transforms into a fish and swims away. Chaife tries to destroy the fish by using fire to evaporate the water, but the fish becomes a hilitai and escapes into the jungle. The enraged god burns down the forest to see the hilitai become a bird. He then summons a typhoon that slams the bird into a cliff side. The bird falls unscathed to the earth, now in human form.

The human defies the angry god by stating that Chaifes power over wind, water and fire cannot harm a soul made from the sun.

Chaife argues that the humans soul was made in Mt. Sasalaguan and it belonged to him. The human informs the god that his soul was not made by him and the soul he seeks can be found in Fouha Bay creating more humans and souls. Chaife races to Fouha to find his escaped soul transformed into earth, a large rock on the shores of Fouha Bay.

There is also a newer Chamorro story about how the handsome hilitai acquired its spots and forked tongue.

The Legend of the Hilitai

The following story of how the hilitai acquired its forked tongue and spots is taken from the Department of Chamorro Affairs Hale-ta: Hemplon Nana Siha, A Collection of Chamorro Legends and Stories from 2001.

Once upon a time, long, long ago, a cunning little iguana lived in a cave. Around the cave was a big forest. The iguana was happy all day, and at night she cuddled down in a warm nest with her mother. Each day, she would go out and search for birds eggs on the dokdok tree near the cave. There, she could hear the sweet songs of the birds and at night, she prayed and wished she could sing.

Now it happened not long after this that she found herself singing. She sang a song so clear and beautiful that all the birds that happened to pass by stopped to listen. How beautiful that is! they said. Animals of all kinds came to hear the little iguana sing, and she grew so proud of her voice that she traveled from place to place singing. One day as she was singing, a little chichirika (mocking bird) hopped and flapped her wings around the iguana and said, Truly, your voice is so sweet, but I have the most beautiful feathers of all the birds in the jungle. Having said this, the chichirika flew away.

When the little iguana heard this, she immediately tried to think of what to do. She knew that a certain black bird was very wise and decided to pay her a visit. On her way, she met the koko (rail) under an old tree. Oh, how ugly you are with your black feathers! Cant you paint yourself to look more beautiful? asked the iguana. To which the koko replied, And cant your paint yourself to change that green coat of yours?

Finally, they both agreed to paint each other so that all the birds and animals would envy them. The koko, being the wisest of the birds, brought some of her eggs and feathers to use as a paint and brush. She separated the yolk from the white and beat them separately until they became a smooth paste. But who is to work first? asked the koko. Said the iguana: Im so tired just now, if you would work on me first, it would give me pleasure to rest my weary arms. The koko politely agreed, Very well.

The koko worked carefully with the yellow paint. The paint hardened and was smooth and shiny as anyone could wish for. The iguana was so pleased that she began to sing. Then, the koko sat down for her turn. The iguana dipped the brush into the white paint and struck the koko on the forehead so that the paint scattered in uneven spots all over. The iguana dropped the brush and ran away as fast as her feet could carry her to the cave. After her was the koko, shaking her head and shouting with all her might: May your tongue be double for playing a trick like that on me!

Ever since that day, the iguanas voice changed. She could no longer sing sweetly, her voice having changed to only being able to utter an ugly and boring whoo like that of an owl. Worst of all, her tongue had split, as it still is today.

Cultural interpertation

The Chamorro creation story of Chaife and the human soul illustrates cultural beliefs of being one with nature. Creation stories are a civilizations explanation of how life came from chaos. The story of Chaife illustrates the ancient Chamorros belief in the human soul and that the human body comes from and is one with nature. With this belief a human can transform into elements of nature in which a human can become a fish, hilitai and bird.

This story focuses on the hilitais beauty and how vanity led to its disregard of the Chamorro values of mamahlao. The hilitai was beautiful and had a lovely voice but wanted more. Employing the help of the koko, the hilitai gained what it wanted but would not repay the koko. Its behavior contradicted the Chamorro cultural practice of chenchule which is an elaborate system of financial, physical labor or material support from friends and family made to aid one in times of need or celebration. As punishment for not repaying or helping the koko the hilitai is unable to sing with its once lovely voice.
The Communication University of China hosted an event to launch A Global Community of Shared Future Research Yearbook 2021 in Beijing on Friday.

Compiled by the university's Institute for a Community with Shared Future and published by the Central Compilation and Translation Press, the yearbook compiles the latest research highlights on the global community with a shared future concept, presenting analyses from diverse disciplines on the concept's origins, theoretical implications and means of communication.

According to Zhang Yanqiu, a vice-dean of the institute and the yearbook's editor-in-chief, the book is based on academic research published in China in 2021, and reviews research findings in disciplines including economics, Marxist theory, management, education and history.

Its content comprises the four sections of literature review, introductions to selected books and doctoral dissertations, projects funded by the Ministry of Education and The National Social Science Fund of China, as well as academic events.

"This yearbook's publication marks our institute's attempt to comprehensively summarize the understandings of the Chinese academia in the context, significance and connotations of the concept," Zhang says.

"It not only reviews the theoretical interpretations by Chinese scholars from various disciplines on the challenges and ways to building a global community with a shared future, but also highlights the recognition and expectations of the Chinese academic community regarding this concept."

Dean of the institute, Li Huailiang, commended efforts made by the editing team and expressed his gratitude toward the publishing house, stressing the concept's significance in the contemporary era.

As the institute is about to initiate the next round of editing and compilation work, experts from the university and the publishing house gave their advice on standardizing the theoretical expressions, structures and formats.

At the end of the event, Li expressed his hope in collaborating with more professional organizations in the future: "We look forward to making continuous efforts to promote and deepen the understanding of the concept of a global community with a shared future worldwide."
Image source: Akademiska sjukhuset/Uppsala universitet; photo: private

For years, the debate has centred on how to improve the efficiency of healthcare. Thanks to advances in generative AI and language modelling, there are now opportunities to reduce the administrative burden on healthcare professionals. This will allow doctors to spend more time with their patients, explains Cyrus Broden, an orthopaedic physician and researcher at Uppsala University Hospital and Uppsala University.

Administrative tasks take up a large share of a doctors working hours, reducing the time for patient contact and contributing to a stressful work situation. Researchers at Uppsala University Hospital and Uppsala University, in collaboration with Danderyd Hospital and the University Hospital of Basel, Switzerland, have shown in a new study that the AI model ChatGPT can write administrative medical notes up to ten times faster than doctors without compromising quality.

The aim of the study was to assess the quality and effectiveness of the ChatGPT tool when producing medical record notes. The researchers used six virtual patient cases that mimicked real cases in both structure and content. Discharge documents for each case were generated by orthopaedic physicians. ChatGPT-4 was then asked to generate the same notes. The quality assessment was carried out by an expert panel of 15 people who were unaware of the source of the documents. As a secondary metric, the time required to create the documents was compared.The results show that ChatGPT-4 and human-generated notes are comparable in quality overall, but ChatGPT-4 produced discharge documents ten times faster than the doctors, notes Broden. Our interpretation is that advanced large language models like ChatGPT-4 have the potential to change the way we work with administrative tasks in healthcare. I believe that generative AI will have a major impact on healthcare and that this could be the beginning of a very exciting development, he maintains.
Myocardial strain imaging: hearts in motion

Radiologist Dr Tilman Emrich from the Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology at the University Medical Center in Mainz, Germany, highlighted the benefits of myocardial strain imaging, its applications and how it can be used as an imaging biomarker. Strain imaging is all about deformation, the alteration of shape or volume of body by a force, he said. This is happening in the heart while it contracts. We see the alteration of volume by the contraction and we can measure this deformation in several parameters.5

This, he continued, can connected to different layers of the heart muscle which have different properties and are responsible for certain motion aspects in the heart.6 The 3D motion pattern can be divided into longitudinal, circumferential (rotation) and radial patterns and we can look at these deformation patterns and try to connect which layer of the muscle is affected, said Emrich.7

Strain images enables cardiac radiologists to conduct segmental analysis, such as in myocardial infarction, and the detection of subclinical changes of the left ventricle, e.g. in genetic diseases or after treatment with chemotherapy. In addition, strain imaging offers insights into prognostic effects of various cardiomyopathies.

While acknowledging that myocardial strain imaging offers a number of insights and is highly promising, Emrich said there is a need to standardise the technique before it can be used as a clinical tool.
A Helena man who is a former Lewis and Clark County Detention Center officer was sentenced March 20 to six months in prison for illegally possessing an unregistered machine gun.

Justin Arthur Berger was assigned to the Bureau of Prisons' facility in Sheridan, Oregon, with three years of supervised release, according to court documents. Among the conditions of his supervised release, he must participate in an outpatient program for mental health treatment as approved by the probation office.

U.S. District Chief Judge Brian Morris presided in Helena.

Berger was 36 when he pleaded guilty in October to the possession and faced a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison with a $250,000 fine, officials said. Other counts against him had been dismissed, which included possession of a short-barreled rifle and unregistered silencers.

An October news release from the U. S. Attorney's Office said a friend of Berger's told the FBI in Helena that Berger talked about harming others in a mass shooting.

The friend said Berger had several assault rifles and silencers, the U.S. Attorney's Office said. Law enforcement learned that Berger was depressed and they knew he manufactured a part that would convert an AR-15 to a fully automatic weapon, officials said in the release.

Law enforcement executed a search warrant of Berger's home finding several firearms, including AR-style firearms with components, a short-barreled rifle and silencers.

A machine gun was found during the seizure, but there was no record of it being registered by Berger in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, authorities said.

Berger was a detention center officer for about three years, according to Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton, but resigned about two years prior to the incident.
DECATUR  The Decatur Police Department is seeking the community's help in solving a homicide, this week's crime of the week.

Decatur police responded at approximately 6:24 a.m. Feb. 28 to the intersection of North Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and East Pershing Road in reference to a shooting.

"Officers arrived on scene and observed a black Pontiac Sedan on the lot of Best One of Central Illinois located at 2952 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive," Officer Tucker Tool stated in a press release. "Officers located the driver and sole occupant of this vehicle with apparent gunshot wounds to his body."

The driver was 22-year-old Decatur resident identified as Kemari A. Carr, who was later pronounced deceased.

Detectives investigated the incident and determined an unknown person or persons from a white SUV fired at the Pontiac at the intersection. The white SUV then fled southbound on North Martin Luther King.

Anyone with information regarding the shooting is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 217-423-TIPS. Callers may remain anonymous.

Crime Stoppers will pay $2,500 or more for information that leads to an arrest on the crime of the week.

2023 mugshots from the Herald & Review Lourash Hirstein Phillip Gehrken Joseph A. Williams Jetrevius O. Jarrett Edwards King-Woods Wilson Derrickson Colby J. Park
DECATUR  Shelith Hansbro met Lisa Stanley early in her professional life.

It didn't take long for the two women to become fast friends.

She made me believe I could do anything as long as she was by my side, said Hansbro, keynote speaker at the Women's History Month luncheon, held at Bistro 537 at Richland Community College. It was held in honor of Stanley, who died Nov. 4 after battling ill health for some time.

Stanley was passionate about helping people, Hansbro said, and loved being Decatur Township supervisor. If family, friends or anyone else asked for her help, she moved mountains for them.

If she couldn't do it, she would find somebody who could, Hansbro said, while all around the room, others nodded and laughed in agreement.

Hansbro, confidential assistant to the director of the Illinois Department of Corrections, said Stanley's commitment to others made her look at her own life and ask herself what she's passionate about, and to resolve to be open to new adventures and to be, as a plaque Stanley gave her reads, the friend everyone wishes they had.

Many of the women at the luncheon, including Hansbro, wore green, Stanley's favorite color, in honor of her.

Strong women don't have attitudes, said the Rev. Courtney Carson, Richland's assistant vice president of external affairs, who organized the event. They have standards.

Angela Foxworth-Everett, constituent liaison and grants management for U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski, read a proclamation naming March 27 Lisa Marie Stanley Day in the 13th District, followed by Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe reading one naming the day in Stanley's honor in the city of Decatur.

After Hansbro's talk, Carson called out each woman in attendance by name, describing their contributions to the community, and gave each one a rose, then posed with each one for photos.

I believe we should give people their roses while they are living, he said.

One of those women was Rebekah Zuniga, director of EnRich Healthcare and wife of Richland Vice President of Academics and Student Success Isaac Zuniga, who playfully nudged Carson aside so he could take a selfie with his wife. When Carson subsequently called his own wife Alyse up for her rose, referring to her as the president of the Carson household, Zuniga again nudged Carson aside so he could take a selfie with her, causing laughter when Carson pretended to be annoyed.

Carson took extra care with Jacqueline King, Stanley's mother. He went to her table to hand her a rose and thanked her for sharing her daughter with the community.

The Rev. James Wheeler, the family's pastor, gave the benediction.

Lisa was so selfless that she would honor all of you, he said to the gathering. We truly thank God for each of you wonderful ladies and all the work that you're doing and all the work that you've done, impacting so many lives.
Breaks Interstate Park will have a new swimming pool thanks to a $300,000 Virginia Department of Energys Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization grant.

Funds were presented Tuesday during a ceremony at the park, according to a written statement.

This AMLER grant for $300,000 will bring a welcome addition to Breaks Interstate Park, said U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith, R-9th. The park showcases Southwest Virginias beauty and a new swimming pool will continue to drive interest in visiting the area and exploring some of our regions most scenic sites.

Over 12,000 people visit the Breaks water park each year and adding the pool is expected to spark an increase in that number, according to the statement.

The pool is scheduled to open Memorial Day weekend. It will also increase revenue by nearly $100,000 annually and create five to seven new seasonal jobs.

Breaks is a crown jewel of Southwest Virginias outdoor recreation and tourism market, due in part to their constant dedication to enhancing the park experience for visitors and locals alike, Sen. Todd Pillion, R-Abingdon, said. This $300,000 investment in the Breaks Water Park Expansion will enable the park to deliver a highly requested amenity by guests that is expected to increase visitation. As a regional asset, we recognize that the success of Breaks Interstate Park reverberates into the local communities and lifts up the regions economy.

This AMLER project is a great tool to not only increase visitors but to add more seasonal job opportunities at the park, said Virginia Energy Director Glenn Davis. This agency was also glad to use $100,000 from our traditional Abandoned Mine Land fund to close three open mine portals within the park and eliminate possible safety issues for visitors.

Breaks Interstate Park is an economic driver for Buchanan and Dickenson counties in Virginia and for Pike County in Kentucky. With an annual revenue of over $3 million, the unique attraction has 10 full time employees and provides 85 seasonal jobs for area high school and college students.

Opening this pool will accomplish strategic goals and provide a new experience that has been requested by our guests for some time, said Breaks Interstate Park Superintendent Austin Bradley. We are grateful that our vision will become a reality thanks to the AMLER program and other generous funding partners.
Wednesday, March 27

The Sportscenter weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at the Sportscenter 233 Country Club Drive, NE, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

Centering Prayer Weekly via Zoom meets at 7:30 p.m. For the Zoom link, check the Calvary Lutheran Church Facebook page or website http://www.clconcord.org, or call the church office at 704-782-6923.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

Thursday, March 28

Epworth United Methodist Church will have a hot dog sale from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Epworth is at 1030 Burrage Road, NE, Concord. Credit cards accepted. For deliveries, call 704-786-5500.

Maundy Thursday Service observed at 7 p.m. at Mt. Mitchell Global Methodist Church. Good Friday Service will be held on March 29 at 7 p.m. The church is located at 6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Kannapolis.

Maundy Thursday Worship at Calvary Lutheran Church will be at 7 p.m. The church is located at 950 Bradley St., Concord.

Grace Church of Concord - A Global Methodist Community will have Maundy Thursday Service at 6 p.m. at the Grace Church Worship Center. Maundy Thursday Service  Upper Room Communion will be served to tables of twelve. The church is located at 28-B Branchview Dr. NE, Concord.

Friday, March 29

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination.

Good Friday Prayer Vigil for quiet prayer in the sanctuary will be from noon  5 p.m. Devotionals provided. Calvary Lutheran Church is at 950 Bradley St., Concord.

Good Friday Tenebrae Worship at Calvary Lutheran Church will be held at 7:45 p.m. All are welcome to join us for this powerful service. Calvary Lutheran Church is at 950 Bradley St., Concord.

Grace Church of Concord - A Global Methodist Community will observe Good Friday at 6 p.m. Good Friday Service will be held at the barn at Green Leaf Farms. Pastor Mikes message will be The Old Rugged Cross based on Luke 23:32-49.

Saturday, March 30

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use ZIP code 28075. The church is at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763.

Sunday, March 31

Mt. Mitchell Global Methodist Church Sunrise Service will be observed at 7 a.m. Breakfast will be provided following the Sunrise Service. The church is located at 6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Kannapolis.

Cold Springs Global Methodist will celebrate the Risen Savior with Sunrise service, 7 a.m. followed by breakfast. Sunday School at 8:30 a.m. followed by 9:30 a.m. worship celebration.

Monday, April 1

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner.

Tuesday, April 2

TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

Wednesday, April 3

The Sportscenter weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at the Sportscenter 233 Country Club Drive, NE, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

Centering Prayer Weekly via Zoom meets at 7:30 p.m. For the Zoom link, check the Calvary Lutheran Church Facebook page or website http://www.clconcord.org, or call the church office at 704-782-6923.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

The Cabarrus Senior Center Photo Club is alive and clicking away. If you like taking photos, come join the members on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Cabarrus Senior Center, 331 Corban Ave. SE, Concord, and share your photographic creativity. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or strictly amateur, all are welcome.

Thursday, April 4

Epworth United Methodist Church will have a hot dog sale from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Epworth is at 1030 Burrage Road, NE, Concord. Credit cards accepted. For deliveries, call 704-786-5500.

Cabarrus chapter of Disabled American Veterans( DAV) will meet at 7 p.m. at 2400 Rock Hill Church Road. Everyone is welcome. Come out and join in the conversation with these veterans

Friday, April 5

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, April 6

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use ZIP code 28075. The church is at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763.

Sunday, April 7

A Griefshare program will be hosted by Cold Springs Global Methodist Sundays through April 21 from 3:30-5 p.m. for those dealing with life stresses following the loss of a loved one. For more information and to register go to griefshare.org/findagroup or call the church office at 704-782-1811.

Calvary Lutheran Church is holding a Red Cross Blood Drive from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Walk-ins welcome. For an appointment, please visit http://www.redcrossblood.org, enter zip code 28025, scroll to April 7th Calvary Lutheran Church 950 Bradley St., Concord, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Refreshments served.

Monday, April 8

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner.

Tuesday, April 9

TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

Wednesday, April 10

The Sportscenter weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at the Sportscenter 233 Country Club Drive, NE, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

Centering Prayer Weekly via Zoom meets at 7:30 p.m. For the Zoom link, check the Calvary Lutheran Church Facebook page or website http://www.clconcord.org, or call the church office at 704-782-6923.

How Great Thou Art Drawing Class led by James Fore in a weekly drawing class 1:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord, NC 28025. All are welcome. Bring paper and pencil. Call the church office at 704-782-6923 for more details.

Thursday, April 11

Epworth United Methodist Church will have a hot dog sale from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Epworth is at 1030 Burrage Road, NE, Concord. Credit cards accepted. For deliveries, call 704-786-5500.

Friday, April 12

The Concord Duplicate Bridge face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. Cost is $5 per player. You must have a partner and provide proof of vaccination.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, April 13

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St., S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and take out. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

A GriefShare Support Group will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, room 23. Sessions will be Saturdays through May 11. Register at GriefShare.org, use ZIP code 28075. The church is at 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. For more information, call 704-455-2763.

Sunday, April 14

A Griefshare program will be hosted by Cold Springs Global Methodist Sundays through April 21 from 3:30-5 p.m. for those dealing with life stresses following the loss of a loved one. For more information and to register go to griefshare.org/findagroup or call the church office at 704-782-1811.

Does your community group or nonprofit agency have an upcoming event that would be of interest to the public? Email it to mplemmons@independenttribune.com.
Whos ready for our next Discovery Series Performance? The last performance in the series was a big hit! Dont miss out on the next one.

Thursday, April 11, 7 p.m. at the Davis Theatre of Cabarrus Arts Council

First up will be Sahaj School of Dance. Experience a variety of dances from Kathak, Folk Dance, and Bollywood from the prestigious Sahaj School of Dance.

Then, Chroma Ensemble.

Enjoy a variety of songs from this select choral ensemble from One Voice Charlotte, bringing LGBTQIA+ affirming people together to celebrate our lives in song.

To purchase tickets visit https://bit.ly/cabartstickets.

Give to the Cabarrus Arts Council: Help keep art alive in our community through a donation of any size. Visit cabarrus artscouncil.org/support/how-to-donate.

This week

(Today-March 31)

Healing Through the Arts: Zentangle  Wednesday, March 27, 5:30-7 p.m. Join the National Alliance on Mental Illness for a creative program that focuses on healing through recreation and arts. We will create Zentangles, patterned images formed by repetition, which can aid in relaxation. Space is limited so register now. Ages 12+; free; registration required; Concord Library; 27 Union St. N; For more information or to register, visit www.cabarruscounty.us.

Crochet 102: Lazy Bunny  Thursday, March 28, 5:30-6:30 p.m. We will take the basics from Crochet 101 and add in some amigurumi basics to make an adorable lazy bunny. All supplies provided. Ages 12+; free; registration required; Registration opens two weeks before this program occurs; Harrisburg Library; 201 Sims Pkwy.; For more information, visit www.cabarruscounty.us.

Announcing the 2024 ClearWater Arts T-Shirt Design Contest! A Collaborative Project between ClearWater Arts Center & Studios, and Studio Print Shop apparel printing company. Funded by a Cabarrus Arts Council Grassroots Grant! Seeking Local Designers and Artists! Design a new T-Shirt for ClearWater Arts Center & Studios, to convey a message of Creative and Cultural Inclusion (and/or how cool and fun it is to come here) and possibly to win $1,000 towards supporting your creative work! Learn More by attending our artist info meeting: Saturday, March 30, at 2 p.m. in the Main Gallery at ClearWater Arts Center & Studios. Attendance is not required, but highly recommended. Entry deadline is April 30 before midnight. Applications must be submitted using our online application form. See the contest rules and guidelines PDF, which includes eligibility, rules and design guidelines  please make sure to READ IT CAREFULLY!! For more information or to apply, visit www.clearwaterartists.com/t-shirt-design-contest.

Next week

(April 1-7)

Mindful Movement  Friday, April 5, 10:15-11 a.m. Join us for a fun and energetic program of movement, mindfulness, interactive stories and music. Ages 3-5 with caregiver; free; no registration required; Concord Library; 27 Union St. N; For more information, visit www.cabarruscounty.us.

Internationally acclaimed performer and choreographer, Dr. Maha Gingrich presents the 21st anniversary of Dances of India on Saturday, April 6, at 4 p.m. Join us to celebrate thousands of years old history and culture of India. Choreographer Dr. Maha Gingrich and a large ensemble of dancers present classical and folk dances. Stories brought to life exquisitely through dance dramas, costumes, and masks. The signature dance, Unity in Diversity, is set to enthralling international dance styles and live music. Tickets required; Performance cost: $15; All ages; Kannapolis Performing Arts Center; 415 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive; For more information or to purchase tickets, visit universe.com/dancesofindia2024.

CAG Workshop Language of the Artist 5 Class Drawing Series with OLynda Walker  Starting Saturday, April 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This five-class drawing series will start on Saturday April 6, and continue the following Saturdays April 13, April 20, April 27 and May 4.

Walker believes that all art starts with understanding drawing. If youre just now learning to draw or brushing up on basic drawing principles, these sessions are designed just for you. Participants are presented with techniques in class and are given homework to continue practicing at home. While reviewing the basics, youll incorporate a variety of subjects, including landscapes, still life, figures and portraits. Weather permitting, some class time will be spent drawing outside. During the five weeks, we will review: Lines, Shapes, Perspectives, Foreshadowing, Scale of Values, Texture and Color. Classes are kept small so Walker can work individually with each participant. This also allows participants to be challenged regardless of skill level. Be sure to bring something for lunch and a snack during class. Walker studied Fine Art at MSCW in Columbus, MS, and later earned her BFA in Interior Design from the University of Georgia. After 35 years in interior design, Walker now spends her time creating art through traditional and water-soluble oils, pastels, watercolors and glass. She manages the Plein Air group for Cabarrus Art Guild, Concord. Class cost: $150 for the full series (CAG Members); $160 non-members; registration required; to register, email Olynda.walker@gmail.com; Payment method: Due at first class, cash payment only; minimum class 3, maximum 5; This class is held at the instructors home in Midland; For more information, visit www.cabarrusartguild.org.

Upcoming

STUCK Stage Play  Saturday, April 13, at 3 p.m. Stuck is a play that shows the path to mental and emotional healing and a play that highlights the struggles and challenges faced by individuals and families. It is also a play that highlights the destructive nature of unresolved anger, unforgiveness, and shattered dreams and the ripple effects these emotions can have on future generations. Ticket purchase required; Kannapolis Middle School (7th-8th Grade Building); 1000 Virginia Dare St.; For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.jesondaproductions.com/stuckpr.

FREE Demo: When Architecture Meets Art with Kevin Owen  Sunday, April 14, 2-4 p.m. You are invited to join us as Kevin Owen, president of Owen Architecture in Winston-Salem, shares how he uses his architectural and design talents to create impressionistic landscapes in watercolor. During the demo, Owen will demonstrate through the use of quick movements and a very limited palette how he creates exciting and quick watercolors. The demonstration will be a live walk through of Owens process creating his impressionistic landscape watercolors. You can view samples of Owens work at his website https://kevingowen-studio.com/. We ask you to arrive before 2 p.m. to not interrupt the speakers presentation. All ages; free; no registration required; ClearWater Arts Center and Studios; 223 Crowell Drive NW, Concord; For more information, visit www.cabarrusartguild.org.

CAG Class: Simple Negative Painting in Acrylics with Susan Lackey on Saturday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to noon. In this class, negative is good. It means that you will paint around your subject to create and develop it, creating a unique image. Lackey will demonstrate, then lead you through a series of very simple steps. You will finish with shading and embellishment to your design. You may elect to work in an expressively realistic or slightly abstracted manner. A supply list is provided so read it carefully. Lackey has been painting and teaching painting for many years. Her work is frequently on display in area galleries and proudly hangs in both private and corporate collections. Class cost: $60; registration required; registration closes April 15. For the supply list or to register, go to https://secure.rec1.com/NC/concord-nc/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTI3NjcyNTY= ; ClearWater Arts Center & Studio; 223 Crowell Drive, NW; For more information, visit www.cabarrusartguild.org.

CAG Class: Tips and Tricks for Pastel Painting  Saturday, April 27, 1-4 p.m. Have you ever considered trying a new medium? Or possibly youve tried pastels in the past and encountered problems? This three-hour workshop will jump-start your pastel skills and increase your enjoyment of this exciting, versatile medium. Bring your questions! Malia Bryngelson will discuss several topics in the class including translating a photo into a pastel painting, application methods and materials for successful outcomes. She will provide the pastel paper, but please bring pastels. Bryngelson is a pastel artist from Locust. Exploring the study of color and new mark-making techniques are the current themes of her work. Bryngelson has studied pastel painting with many nationally known pastel artists. Her award-winning work has been included in state and national exhibitions. Class cost: $45 CAG members/$50 nonmembers; Materials Cost: no additional cost. Please bring your pastels. Registration required; adults; to register: Send an email Bryngelson at maliabryngel56@gmail.com; Instructor will provide details to pay by check at time of registration; Please note Location: 320 Copperfield Blvd, Suite 2, Concord (follow signs for Resurgence Neuro Therapy); For more information, visit www.cabarrusartguild.org/classes.

Ongoing

The Swanee Theatre is the place to be for moving and grooving through your week! Mark your calendars! Kannapolis Parks and Recreation is offering several dancing opportunities for all to enjoy: Mondays  Free Line Dancing, 6-8 p.m.; Tuesdays  Free Dance. Walk. Party. A Fitness experience! 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Wednesdays  Shag Dancing, $5/Person 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Come out to any or all of these events to make new friends and Discover a Healthy Life in Kannapolis. No registration needed, just come join the fun! For more information, visit www.facebook.com/CityofKannapolis.

Open Mic  Spotlight Series Every fourth Thursday from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Come join us for this incredible spotlight series and open mic! Sign up to share on the mic at the event, free to the public and best coffee in town! March 28  Featuring Rocky Little; April 25  Featuring Sidekick; May 23  Featuring Lady V Poetry; June 27  Featuring Frank Expressions; free; no registration required; Wired Coffee Express, 469 N. Cannon Blvd.; For more information, visit www.facebook.com/guerilla.poets.founders.

After School and Adult Art Classes in drawing, painting, pottery and sculpture. After-school classes from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and adult classes from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday one day per week for six weeks. For more information, call 704-786-8570.

North Carolina Music Hall of Fame  The North Carolina Music Hall of Fame Museum is a safe, fun, and touch-free visit for your friends and family! The museum is open to the public Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m., closed noon to 1 p.m. for lunch. Reserve your visit at Make A Reservation  North Carolina Music Hall Of Fame, 600 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis.

Open Art Day  Every Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring your lunch and drink, bring a project you are working on and your supplies. Or bring work youd like to share and discuss. This is a working, weekly meeting, each Tuesday, to work with and share with artists and like-minded people who appreciate creativity. ClearWater Arts Center & Studios (223 Crowell Drive, NW, Concord)  enter through the double glass doors facing Kerr Street, called the Greenway Gallery). For more information, go to cabarrusartguild.org.

Caffeinate with Creatives  Every Second Saturday, 10-11 a.m. The Concord area is filled with artists of all kinds, lets take some time to get to know each other. Join us every second Saturday for coffee and creative conversations. All artists are welcome; no registration; free, coffee for purchase; ClearWater Arts Center & Studios (223 Crowell Drive, NW, Concord). For more information, visit www.clearwaterartists.com.

Plein Air with the CAG  Calling all artists. First timers welcome. Dont worry if you dont have all the things, you think you need, this is a very informal gathering, and your fellow artists are happy to help. Reach out to get on the mailing list for various events. Has the idea or the fun of Plein Air ever fascinated you? Well first off, to explain, Plein air is a French term meaning, denoting or in the manner of a 19th-century style of painting outdoors, or with a strong sense of the open air, that became a central feature of French impressionism. Some famous Plein air painters were amongst the most impressive painters from history including Monet, Homer and Sargent. Within the Cabarrus Art Guild, a group of Plein air painters have banded together to enjoy the lovely North Carolina Piedmont and surrounding sites via Plein air. They have named themselves, Dusty Road Painters and meet to explore the indoors (inclement weather) and outdoors that offer countless opportunities to express ones artistic curiosity and passion. Have questions or interested in joining this free group of adventurous artists? Reach out to Plein Air Chair, OLynda Walker at olynda.walker@gmail.com. Free. For more information, visit www.cabarrusartguild.org.

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Course Offerings  Continuing Education courses available with Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. In addition to career courses, we also offer personal enrichment courses. Call 702-216-7222 or register online at https://cce.rcc.edu/ The following link is continually updated with new course offerings: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hwaTI5nAM_bMAiQ_XooVkANHnnJOqN63/edit.
This years World Backup Day on 31 March serves as a timely reminder for organisations to up their data protection game by having the right recovery and ransomware protection capabilities, according to the latest protection trends report from Veeam.

Anthony Spiteri, Regional CTO APJ for Veeam, says Veeams latest Data Protection Trends report (DPR), 2024 is the fourth consecutive year cyber-attacks were listed as the most common and most impactful causes of business outages.

According to Spiteri ransomware continues to be more of an inevitability than not with eight in ten 10 APJ organisations suffering at least one ransomware attack last year - and the repercussions extend not only to business continuity but ultimately, brand reputation damage and loss of revenue.

In fact, Veeams DPR report found that cyber threats are one of the biggest inhibitors to achieving DX initiatives in APJ, as resources are diverted away. This illustrates a need for resilient backup strategies, in addition to protective measures, cautions Spiteri.

Spiteri notes that this year, Veeam outlines five best practices for secure backup that will help increase their cyber-resilience:

Keep attackers out  work towards Zero Trust:

Cyber resilience is about adapting and evolving to stay ahead of threats. Zero trust is a journey where new security practices are implemented and refined over time, to protect against threats that may exist both inside and outside the network. Zero trust ensures security practices are maintained in a constantly evolving landscape and all endpoints are secured by default.

Data immutability:

With the rise of ransomware, having an immutable backup has become critical to keep businesses running. This is because threat actors now routinely attack backups. Immutable means that something is unable to be changed or deleted so if backups are targeted, attackers still cant alter the data, ensuring recoverability.

Use encryption:

This is where the partnership between the security and backup teams is more and more crucial. Together, they must develop and implement robust strategies to safeguard data throughout its lifecycle, from creation to backup storage. By ensuring a cohesive approach, these teams can enhance data protection measures, effectively mitigating the risk of unauthorised data access and ensuring comprehensive security in the backup process using best of breed technologies.

Plan (and test!) for the Worst:

Build a proven, documented plan by keeping your documentation up to date, testing your backup plan regularly and proving your RPO/RTO.

Dont Reintroduce the Threat:
The Art Hong Kong Expo will be held at the city's AsiaWorld-Expo from May 16 to 19, focusing on technology, digitization and culture and tourism, according to a news release in Beijing on Thursday.

With the theme Digital Cultural Creativity, this year's expo will feature five sections  digital creativity, fashion and design, culture and tourism trades, intangible heritages and crafts, and international artworks. A series of related activities such as discussions, exhibitions, calligraphy competitions and promotions of cities' tourism will also be held at the expo, said Pi Qubing, executive chair of the Art Hong Kong Expo.

The expo was held for the first time in May last year. It attracted more than 300 exhibitors and over 30,000 visitors from across the world, according to Liang Tianfu, the committee chair of the expo.

This year, the size of the exhibition space has been largely expanded and the contents are richer than those of last year to make Hong Kong a cultural hub to connect China with the international world. Preparation work for the expo is close to finishing. It's expected to not only help introduce Chinese cultural products, artists and companies to the world but also attract foreign artists to come to China for a further communication.

The expo is supported by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and other related cultural institutions in Hong Kong, Shenzhen in Guangdong province and Beijing.
Australian artificial intelligence start-up Intellisoftware has unveiled a new wide-ranging strategic partnership with the Australian Revenue Management Association (ARMA) - a peak industry body active in the hospitality and tourism sectors focused on elevating the standards of revenue and yield management and driving continuous growth in professional skills, knowledge and innovation.

Intellisoftware says a key aspect of the partnership is ARMA's official endorsement of Intellisoftware's recently launched RMS platform Hotel RevBoost  an AI-driven revenue management system (RMS) - designed to assist hotel and accommodation providers optimise room pricing, maximise revenue and profit opportunities and automate this traditionally time consuming and laborious process.

The platform featuring a customisable AI 'Brain, leverages historical booking information, market demand/travel trends, occupancy rates and competitor data and overlays this with the power of AI to craft intelligent, predictive pricing strategies in 'real-time'.

Intellisoftware notes that an integral part of the partnership will be ARMAs appointment of Intellisoftware as its exclusive AI Education Partner - and the company will become involved in the design of a new AI training course for ARMA members which has been proposed for ARMAs 2024 curriculum to take advantage of the enormous groundswell of interest in AI and how it can benefit all types of businesses in the hospitality sector and beyond.

Under the partnership Intellisoftware will also gain a seat on ARMAs Skills Council to provide input for ARMAs nationally recognised and accredited VET qualification in revenue and yield management launching this year.

Other activities include Intellisoftwares sponsorship of one of the key events in the ARMA calendar  the Rise Up Melbourne 2024 APAC Revenue Management Summit, to be held in Melbourne across 27/28 May where they will be a Platinum sponsor and the companys participation in ARMA's 2024 'Commercial Strategy Forum' and webinar programs.

Melissa Kalan ARMA CEO stated, This collaboration marks a significant milestone for us. The synergy between ARMA's deep knowledge of revenue and yield management and Intellisoftwares innovative approach to applying AI to some of the key issues and opportunities facing the sector today, underscores both our respective organisations' commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and excellence.

As we see the application of AI becoming ubiquitous across many different industry sectors - it is important to note that the hotel and hospitality space is no exception. We believe that this collaboration underlines the immense momentum being created by the rapid adoption of this technology, as well as the potential for AI to make a positive business impact on our remit as a key representative body.

Intellisoftware Sales and Marketing Manager Jason Smith concluded, Having worked closely with ARMA and CEO Melissa Kalan in particular over the past few months to make this happen, we are confident that this partnership marks a new phase in our relationship. It gives ARMA the opportunity to continue to position itself as a dynamic organisation at the forefront of its industry and provides Intellisoftware with the added credibility it needs to push further into the Australian and global marketplace.
Kinutateiwa Suspension Bridge (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Kinugawa Onsen is a mineral hot spring destination near Nikko. Here dozens of onsen hotels and ryokan inns nestled along the banks of the scenic Kinguawa River welcome visitors who wish to soak in the therapeutic springs.

Kinugawa Onsen is within a two-hour drive from most Kanto bases. You can easily visit the town by train on the Tobu Railway from Tokyo, as well.

Just outside the Tobu Kinugawa-Onsen Station, you can find plenty of souvenir shops and restaurants clustered in the town center.

Kinugawa Onsen Station (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Before and after your walk around the quaint town, make sure to stop at the free ashiyu foot hot spring just outside the station. The gentle alkaline hot water, thought to be effective in easing symptoms of neuralgia, will warm your feet and leave your skin silky smooth.

Foot Spa (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

A walk along the Kinugawa River will lead to the impressive Kinutateiwa Suspension Bridge, a 140-meter-long pedestrian bridge that sits 37 meters above the river. From the bridge, youll get a view of the river below, Mt. Keicho and Kinugawa Mountain Range off in the distance.

Kinutateiwa Suspension Bridge (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi) Kinutateiwa Suspension Bridge (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Nearby, Yuing Plaza is a nice place to take a quick rest for a snack or a lunch. Some of the local delicacies you can buy at this shopping center include the Comet Burger, a homemade hamburger with local Tochigi wagyu beef and Nikko Pudding, made from high-end milk and eggs produced at a local farm.

Yuing Plaza (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi) Yuing Plaza (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

After youve explored the city center, check out Tobu World Square and Edo Wonderland, two fun theme parks close by.

Tobu World Square is home to 102 miniature replicas of famous monuments and buildings from 21 countries. The replicas at Tobu World Square are 1/25 of the original monuments youd find in Paris, Egypt, India and more. The park is a great way to take a trip around the world without having to leave Japan and offers some great photo ops your whole family will enjoy. (see video: VIDEO: Exploring Japan: Travel around world at Nikkos Tobu World Square | Stripes Japan)

Tobu World Square (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi) Tobu World Square (Photo by Takahiro Takiguchi)

Edo Wonderland gives a glimpse of what life in Japan was like during the Edo Era. Stroll the park in a kimono and experience Japans Golden Age with elaborately reconstructed streets and buildings. The park offers family-friendly attractions and hands-on workshops, like ninja classes, samurai sword training, shows, indigo dying and more. (see the story: Feel old Japan at Nikko Edo Wonderland | Stripes Japan)

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura (Photo courtesy of Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura) Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura (Photo courtesy of Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura)

Kinugawa Onsen makes for a good day trip or an overnight one you and your whole family will enjoy. Dont miss it!
Insight Trump wants to round up over a million illegals. Here's how he might do it By Doyle McManus Los Angeles Times/(TNS) Published March 27, 2024

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WASHINGTONFormer President Donald Trump has focused relentlessly on illegal immigration as a centerpiece of his campaign for the White House, just as when he first ran in 2016.

"They're poisoning the blood of our country," he has said of undocumented migrants, using language redolent of the racist doctrines of Adolf Hitler.

He promises to launch "the biggest domestic deportation campaign in American history" on Day One of his new presidency.

His chief immigration adviser, Santa Monica-born Stephen Miller, has spelled out what that would mean: Trump would assemble "a giant force" including National Guard troops to seize undocumented migrants, transport them to camps in Texas and expel them.

"A very conservative estimate would say about 10 million," Miller told pro-Trump talk show host Charlie Kirk.

If "unfriendly states"  like California  don't want to cooperate, Miller said, Trump could order Guard units from red states like Texas to cross their borders to enforce the law.

The operation would be "as daring and ambitious  as building the Panama Canal," Miller promised.

That's a pretty bloodless way to describe a process that would uproot thousands of families, separate children from their parents and disrupt communities. But before we get to that, a preliminary question:

If he wins in November, could Trump really do that?

From a legal standpoint, the answer is yes.

If Trump invokes the Insurrection Act and declares that the National Guard is needed to enforce federal immigration law, he could send Texas troops into California whether Gov. Gavin Newsom agrees or not, legal scholars said.

"We normally don't want the military enforcing the law inside the country; law enforcement is supposed to be provided by police forces that are local  and locally accountable," said William Banks, an emeritus professor of law at Syracuse University. "But the Insurrection Act gives the president sweeping authority. You could drive a lot of trucks through that law."

Newsom would presumably file a lawsuit against Trump to try to block the move, but it would almost certainly fail.

"No state has ever sued successfully to stop a deployment of the Guard under the Insurrection Act," warned Joseph Nunn of the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University.

There are also practical concerns. Most National Guard units are neither trained nor equipped for law enforcement missions.

"Tracking down undocumented migrants is complicated and time-consuming," Nunn noted. "You need people who know how to do it, like ICE [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] agents.

"The Guard would resist that kind of mission mightily," added Banks. "They hate this kind of stuff. They would be better suited to patrol the border  to stand next to the wall, the fence or the river and discourage people from coming across."

So if Trump listens to his generals  not a sure thing  he'd be more likely to use Guard units to bolster weak spots on the border and manage those newly built transit camps for deportees.

That would free up ICE agents for raids on Central Valley farms and Los Angeles sweatshops  which is what immigration agents did in earlier crackdowns, including the offensively named Operation Wetback, which expelled more than a million Mexican migrants (and some U.S. citizens) in 1954.

So legally, there may not be that much California can do. But the fallout in a state home to an estimated 1.9 million undocumented people  roughly 5% of the population  would be difficult to imagine.

The human impact of uprooting most or all of these California residents would be gigantic. Many undocumented migrants are members of families that include legal residents and U.S. citizens, including children.

Many are deeply rooted in their communities; more than two-thirds have lived in the state longer than 10 years, according to one estimate.

"When you harm the undocumented, you harm U.S. citizens too," said Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights in Los Angeles.

"I've seen families devastated by the deportation of their loved ones. I've seen families, when the father is deported, go right into economic ruin," Salas said. "The trauma for children, especially small children, is enormous."

The economic impact of mass deportations would be huge, too. An estimated 1.5 million California workers, more than 7% of the state's workforce, are undocumented. About half work in agriculture, construction, hospitality and retail, industries that already suffer from severe labor shortages.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome H. Powell said this month that the growth of immigrants in the workforce had strengthened economic growth. "It's just arithmetic," said Powell, a Trump appointee. "If you add a couple of million people to an economy  there will be more output." Abruptly subtracting a million or more would have the opposite effect.

Trump advisors aren't planning to stop at removing undocumented people from the country.

Miller wants to go after some people in the country legally too.

He has proposed expanding the criteria for deportation to include people with valid visas "whose views, attitudes and beliefs make them ineligible to stay" in the eyes of the new Trump administration.

"The obvious example here would be all of the Hamas supporters who are rallying across the country," he said.

An immigration task force organized by the conservative Heritage Foundation and led by a former Trump administration official proposed blocking Federal Emergency Management Agency grants to state and local agencies that refuse to cooperate with ICE enforcement operations, a standard that would presumably disqualify most or all California agencies.

The task force also proposed denying federal loans and grants to students at universities that allow undocumented migrants to pay in-state tuition, a rule that would affect UC and the Cal State systems.

It adds up to a recipe for a major collision with California, the state most out of step with Trump's determination to rid the country of undocumented migrants.

None of this constitutes a defense of the Biden administration's policies, which have failed to deter thousands of migrants from crossing the border and applying for asylum on often-dubious grounds.

But it's worth remembering that only a few weeks ago, Trump ordered Republicans in Congress to kill a bipartisan bill that would have increased funding for immigration enforcement and raised the bar for asylum claims  because, as he admitted, he didn't want to allow President Biden to appear as if he was fixing the problem.

When Trump was first elected in 2016, I wrote that on immigration policy, "His bark may prove worse than his bite."

I was wrong. He turned out to be dead serious.

Trump's promises of mass deportations and detention camps should be taken seriously  and literally, too.

"If he says he's going to do it, believe him," Salas said.

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Previously:

 03/06/24: Biden should hope he gets heckled at his State of the Union speech

 02/14/24: Biden's memory is failing. So is Trump's. The question is whose flaws are more dangerous

 02/07/24: Will Biden's 'Goldilocks' airstrikes against Iran-backed militias work?

 12/06/23: Will Joe survive leftists --- and Gaza?

 11/22/23: Don't let Xi and Biden's agreements fool you

 11/08/23: Biden says the US must help Israel and Ukraine succeed --- he's staking his reputation on it

 11/02/23: Today's wars and the international order

 10/25/23: Biden says the US must help Israel and Ukraine succeed --- he's staking his reputation on it

 10/05/23: Biden and Trump want working-class votes. The economy may decide who gets them

 09/13/23: Zelensky is coming to Washington to ask for more Ukraine aid. Congress should say yes

 09/13/23: Voters think Biden's too old to run again. Can he persuade them that they're wrong?

 08/23/23: Canada is recruiting immigrants from Silicon Valley to boost its economy. It might work

 07/05/23: Bizarre standoff with Wagner Group's Prigozhin weakens Putin. But don't count him out

 06/27/23: Blinken tried to build a floor under US-China relations. He may have to keep doing it

 05/09/23: With just weeks left to strike a deal, it's time to worry about the debt ceiling

 05/02/23: A centrist, third-party alternative for 2024 is a nice idea --- but a nightmare in practice

 04/25/23: Trump seems to have a firm grip on GOP polls --- but his rivals think they can do better

 04/04/23: Ukraine is counting on its spring offensive against Russia. Biden has a stake in it too

 03/22/23: Silicon Valley Bank's collapse may be a blessing in disguise

 03/07/23: DeSantis wants to displace Trump as the GOP's 2024 nominee. But he has hurdles to overcome

 02/21/23: Biden's 2024 presidential campaign harks back to past Dem triumphs

 02/14/23: Chinese balloon is gone, but it's still making US-China relations harder to manage

 01/24/23: Biden said the pandemic is over. But, aw shucks!, the pandemic just won't cooperate

 01/17/23: The war in Ukraine could become a long, frozen conflict. Are we ready for that?

 01/10/23: The real winner from the House fight?

 12/28/22: Why Trump will never go to jail over Jan. 6

 12/20/22: Democracy around the world is looking a little healthier, at least next to the alternative

 12/13/22: Biden's policy makes Ukraine fight by rules Russia doesn't follow

 12/09/22: Iran protests have shoved the nuclear issue off center stage. It will be back

 09/20/22: Biden sent the wrong message on COVID. He can still fix it

 09/20/22: Putin's brutality in Ukraine can get worse. Get ready for a chilly winter

 09/13/22: China's economy is slowing, its population aging. That could make it dangerous

 06/28/22: To deter China on Taiwan, Biden needs to reassure

 05/24/22: India has become a US partner in countering China --- a limited partner, that is

 05/11/22: Slow Joe's premature self-congratulation won't help the US in Ukraine

 05/03/22: Can the US deter Putin from using his arsenal of battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine?

 04/08/22:Biden's budget is big. Dems will vote to make it bigger

 03/22/22: Ukraine's resistance offers a useful lesson to Taiwan

 03/15/22: China wanted to appear neutral between Russia and Ukraine. It isn't

 02/22/21: Who needs an invasion? Putin's offensive against Ukraine has been underway for a long time

 02/09/21: If Putin wants an exit from the Ukraine crisis, the offramps are open

 11/30/21: Biden wants to focus on China. Putin has another idea

 11/23/21: Our oldest president just turned 79. He might have something to learn from the second-oldest

 11/16/21: Can Biden and Xi talk their way out of a slide into conflict?

 10/13/21: Congress has a chance to take bipartisan action on Facebook. Don't let it slip away

 09/24/21: Can Dems win on crime issues with murders rising? Biden thinks so

 06/29/21: Can Dems win on crime issues with murders rising? Biden thinks so

 04/20/21:Afghanistan's war -- and America's stakes in it -- won't end when the troops leave

 03/31/21: Here's why our new cold war with China could be a good thing

 02/25/21: Sen. Joe Manchin drives Dems crazy. Here's why they need more senators like him

 08/11/20: Goodbye to traditional political conventions --- and good riddance



 05/19/20: We won't end COVID-19 with 'test and trace'

 04/07/20: Joe Biden is stuck in his basement. It just might help him win

 03/10/20: Where did Bernie's revolution go wrong?

 03/05/20: Dems give Trump good reason to smile

 02/18/20: Who will be the Un-Bernie?

 02/11/20: Buttigieg wants to be the Goldilocks candidate. It just might work

 01/21/20: The world according to Bernie

 09/04/19: Trump's draft deal with the Taliban looks ugly, but it may be the best we can get

 04/22/19: Something is missing from media-fawning Buttigieg campaign --- his stance on major issues

 03/14/19: Biden, If He Runs, Will Face A Cruel Irony

Doyle McManus

Los Angeles Times

(TNS)

Doyle McManus is an American journalist, columnist, who appears often on Public Broadcasting Service's Washington Week.
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People in Kosciusko, Miss., describe the smell differently. Its gassy and milky, to some like rotten eggs and to others like ammonia or the acrid burn of an old-fashioned perm.

It just smells like clabbered milk and burnt cat hair, resident Brad Stanley said.

What Stanley and his neighbors agree on is that the stench, whatever it is, is so strong that it subsumes their small city in central Mississippi for weeks on end every year. They say it emanates from a lagoon just beyond the city limits, where a production plant for the Prairie Farms dairy company dumps wastewater, including, on at least one occasion, gallons of spoiled milk.

Residents told The Washington Post that the ensuing odor has been foul enough to sour visitors and drive Kosciuskos community of about 7,000 people indoors. It has led the city to commit millions of dollars to treating the lagoon and attracted scrutiny from the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, which cited Prairie Farms for its waste discharge several times in 2022 and 2023, according to state records and a recent report by Mississippi Today.

But the smell persists, returning every February and March in a seasonal haunting. Some in Kosciusko see an intractable dilemma: Prairie Farms is one of Kosciuskos largest employers.

I understand why people are complaining, said Tim Kyle, Kosciuskos mayor. I dont like it either. But, you know, on the other side of this, I dont want to lose this business.

Prairie Farms desires to be a good neighbor in Kosciusko, Prairie Farms spokesperson Darin Copeland said in a statement.  We are working with city and state officials to find a solution as quickly as possible.

Residents cant pinpoint exactly when the smell of spoiled milk began to sour the streets of Kosciusko. Most agree that it was not present when they grew up in the city, decades ago. The consensus is that in recent years, it has become impossible to ignore.

The scent is so overwhelming, said Emily Bennett, who lives near the lagoon on the east side of Kosciusko. "It will wake you up in the middle of the night, you will think your house is on fire.

The lagoon sits just beyond Kosciuskos southeastern limits, near Prairie Farms production plant and a stretch of the Natchez Trace Parkway, a federally maintained scenic drive. Several residential streets, a high school and a Walmart are also nearby.

When youre picking out your produce or your meat, its the thick taste of clabbered milk in your sinuses, Stanley said.

Joy Reynolds, who runs a ranch near the lagoon, said the stench overpowers that of her horses manure. Amber Thrasher, a former restaurant owner in Kosciusko, said shes taken injections for migraines, which develop when the smell emerges. The smell also discouraged customers from eating at her restaurants, she said.

A lot of people ended up just doing to-go orders  because they dont want to get out of the car to smell it, Thrasher said.

Lagoons are often used by small and rural communities to treat wastewater, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. (Kosciusko has more than one.) And its not unusual for wastewater lagoons to become particularly pungent as seasons change, when fluctuating temperatures stir the water, exposing submerged waste and odorous gases. But state and federal records indicate that Prairie Farms, which Kyle said contributes the majority of the waste pooling in the lagoon, repeatedly violated standards for the quality of wastewater it discharged.

Prairie Farms' wastewater consistently violated state quality standards when inspected between November 2022 and March 2023 and again from July to November 2023, according to Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality records obtained by The Post. At its peak in February 2023, the biochemical oxygen demand of the plants wastewater - a measure of the amount of oxygen consumed by bacteria in the water as they break down waste - exceeded daily permitted limits by over 1,500 percent, according to records.

Prairie Farms, which is based in Illinois, was notified of its violations twice in 2023 and was told in January that it was in significant noncompliance, according to records.

Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality spokesperson Jan Schaefer confirmed that the department was taking action against Prairie Farms, but she declined to comment further. Copeland, the Prairie Farms spokesperson, declined to comment on a pending case with the department.

Kyle, the mayor, criticized the dairy company in 2022 after a broken valve on a Prairie Farms tanker truck spilled gallons of milk into the lagoon, fueling a particularly foul spate of odors, according to the Star-Herald, a Kosciusko newspaper.

That took 90 days to break down, Kyle said.

Kosciusko has sunk millions into addressing the smell. Kyle said Prairie Farms purchases about 4.2 million gallons of water each month from the city to use in the plant. But Kosciusko spends around $212,000 a year to treat the lagoon with aerators and chemicals. Kyle said the city plans to spend $3.2 million from the American Rescue Plan and state funding to dredge the lagoon and raise its levees this summer.

Kyle said that the city is in communication with state officials and Prairie Farms, and that its up to the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality to enforce the plants compliance with state wastewater standards.

Kosciusko residents are split on how much they want to press the issue. In a community with no strangers, Bennett said, there is little appetite for conflict. Many of Prairie Farms critics have friends who work at the plant.

I think the last thing anyone wants to do is have them leave town, Bennett said. But at the same time, should we be compromising our health and our right to breathe fresh air?

As Kosciusko stews, some are weighing their options. Thrasher spends her weekends in Texas, where she has family, and is considering moving west to start a restaurant in Dallas, she said. Others, like Reynolds, cant stomach leaving home.

Most of the people grew up here and just stayed here, Reynolds said.  I want better for the town.
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Bernie Sanders emerged from the land of the sugarplum fairies earlier this month to advocate for a 32-hour work week  all with no reduction in pay.

Sanders, the Vermont socialist, recently introduced a bill that would create a four-year transition period to a four-day work week in the United States. The government would then require overtime for anyone who toiled more than 32 hours in a week, while also preventing companies from readjusting pay and benefits to reflect the extra time off.

At a Senate committee hearing, Sanders presented Juliet Schor, a Boston University sociology professor, who testified that trials show the reform would increase worker happiness and productivity.

If so, Schor, who has spent the past two decades in academia, has identified a potential market inefficiency. Perhaps she and Sanders should find investors  while maybe contributing a bit of their own money  to fund a small business that would pay its employees top dollar to work less, throwing off massive profits as it exploits Schors findings to bury its traditional competitors.

We kid.

Sanders' bill has no chance of passing. But it is yet another example of progressives operating in Never Never Land when it comes to the private economy and job creation. Imposing this plan on the country by government fiat would be a reckless and massive disruption to commerce and productivity. Among many other things, it would drive up prices for the very employees he professes to represent.

Sanders should first pitch his proposal to lawmakers in his home state of Vermont. After adopting the 32-hour workweek, the Green Mountain State could also defund the police and impose a $50 minimum wage  all while offering residents free health care, housing and college tuition.

Surely, the folks in the rest of New England wouldnt mind absorbing the massive exodus of Vermonters fleeing the state after Sanders had finished turning it into a barren economic wasteland resembling Venezuela.

Sanders might do well to remember the late George McGoverns epiphany. In a 1992 Wall Street Journal op-ed, McGovern  a Democratic U.S. senator from South Dakota who was his partys 1972 presidential nominee  recounted how he tried to open a quaint Connecticut inn after leaving the Senate only to be stymied by red tape.

"My business associates and I also lived with federal, state and local rules that were all passed with the objective of helping employees, protecting the environment, raising tax dollars for schools, protecting our customers from fire hazards, etc.," he wrote. But while he "never doubted the worthiness of any of these goals, the concept that most often eludes legislators is that such regulations can smother employers.

"I also wish that during the years I was in public office, McGovern admitted, "I had had this firsthand experience about the difficulties business people face every day. That knowledge would have made me a better U.S. senator and a more understanding presidential contender."

Oh, that Sanders would be so humble.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
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I have a story about a recent visit to Mar-a-Lago for a conversation with former President Donald Trump. At any given moment, there are lots of subjects in the news one could ask Trump about, but I decided to focus on a longer-term story  how he managed to come back from the disastrous end of his presidency in early 2021 to become the 2024 Republican Party presidential nominee. It's really a story about the intensity gap between Trump's supporters and everybody else.

Remember that after Trump left office on Jan. 20, 2021, he was still awaiting a Senate impeachment trial (his second), Washington was reeling after a series of failed election challenges and Jan. 6, he was facing all sorts of investigations, and much of the political world had written him off for dead, "rebuked by many in his own party and exiled at his Florida estate Mar-a-Lago," in the words of a recent New York Times story.

But Trump saw, and felt, something completely different. Here's the short version of what he told me during our conversation in Florida: He never felt politically dead. He knew he could run again. He was already planning it when he returned to Mar-a-Lago. He knew he had the support to do it because he could feel the emotional engagement of his voters.

"I feel the crowd, and I feel a love," Trump said. "I never felt that [I was finished politically]. Just never felt it."

Over and over during our talk, Trump said he "felt" a strong level of support even though Washington opinion influencers counted him out. Yes, he commissioned some polling that, he said, "showed there was a tremendous thirst for what I was saying." But he relied, to an enormous extent, on his own instincts to believe that he could come back. "I felt I had [emotional support]," Trump said. "I didn't see it in the fake news, but I felt I had it. I felt I never lost it. I felt I could have run for office the week after Jan. 6 and done just as well."

What Trump was feeling was an intensity gap. In the Republican primary race, more GOP voters were emotionally committed to him than to any GOP challenger. And now, in a general election matchup, those same Republican voters are more enthusiastic about supporting his candidacy than Democrats are about supporting his Democratic opponent, President Joe Biden.

As we talked, Trump showed a practical example of what he was talking about. He had to interrupt dinner to make a brief speech to the Palm Beach County Republican Party, which was holding its annual Lincoln Day event that night in another building at Mar-a-Lago. When Trump walked in, the crowd went wild. To say the reception was enthusiastic would be an understatement. Yes, it was a hometown crowd, but the group's reaction to Trump was more than just political enthusiasm: more intense, more personal, more devoted.

After his speech, Trump walked a rope line on his way out of the room. Even the handshaking was more intense than politics as usual. Trump shook hand after hand, but rather than a simple handshake, some excited admirers would grasp his hand so heartily and squeeze so hard that Trump had to pull back to move on to the next person. Near the end of the line, one woman seized Trump's hand so vigorously that a Secret Service agent had to deliver a sort of mini karate chop  nothing violent, just a firm tap  to break up the one-sided embrace.

As we walked back to dinner, Trump held out his right hand and showed that the back was covered by a large, greenish bruise. There were also marks left by female admirers with carefully manicured nails. It happened all the time, he said, marveling at the emotional connection people in the crowd felt with him. He feels it and realizes it is unusual, not the sort of thing one sees every day in politics or in life. He knows it is the foundation of his comeback.

Trump also sees that connection in the Republican electorate's reaction to the indictments against him by the Biden Justice Department and elected Democratic prosecutors in New York and Georgia. "They hate the lawfare that's being done," he said of his supporters. "I don't ever like to say, because it's never happened before, but I think it's raised me 25%."

I mentioned that in conventional political terms, it made no sense that a politician could be indicted and that his support would go up while his opponents' support went down. "Who would have thought that, right?" Trump said. "Usually when that happens, you announce you're leaving, you'll fight for your name, and you're going back to your family, right? I would say usually  100% of the time." But not this time.

The intensity gap was on full display in the Republican primaries. If you went to rallies held by Trump and then by Trump's longest-lasting challenger, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, you saw entirely different events. Haley's rallies were smaller events in which supporters expressed mild enthusiasm for her candidacy. Trump's were loud, tumultuous, and nearly over the top. There was a candidate-voter connection that was lacking at Haley's events. And it wasn't just the events. The Haley-Trump voter intensity gap was also reflected repeatedly in polls of Republican primary voters in South Carolina and beyond.

Now, the intensity gap is playing out between Trump and Biden. It works both ways, of course, between the intensity of Trump's supporters and the intensity of voters who want to defeat him. The gap is visible not just in campaign events but in polling showing a heightened intensity around Trump. Pollsters routinely ask Trump voters whether their vote will be more a vote for Trump or a vote against Biden. Most say it will be a vote for Trump. Then, they ask Biden voters whether their vote will be more a vote for Biden or a vote against Trump. Most say it will be a vote against Trump. The bottom line is it's all about Trump.

Trump sensed all of that back in the dark days of 2021. At Mar-a-Lago, Trump's daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, the new co-chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, recalled a family dinner the night after Trump left the presidency. "I know I can do this again," Lara Trump recalled her father-in-law saying that evening. A comeback was clearly on Trump's mind, even in his earliest post-presidential hours.

Lara Trump's recollection spurred Trump to think more about his feelings as he arrived in Florida in early 2021. Here is a key excerpt from the article in which Trump explained his thoughts from that time:

"I felt that  I know that I won the election, by a lot," Trump said. "If I felt I lost the election, I would not have done this. You understand that? I hope that makes sense. If I felt I had lost the election, I would not have done this. But I knew I won the election by a lot. I have no doubt. And by the way, neither does 78% of the people, when you take a look. And you can't have that, where a large majority of people in a country think that the elections are rigged and stolen. And you can't have open borders, either. You can't have certain things."

Trump had almost changed the subject on himself, but he moved back on track. "I would say that I started in my mind campaigning the day after I lost the election," he said. "That didn't mean I'm out there campaigning per se. But we had tremendous love, tremendous spirit from the day  that was not interrupted by Jan. 6. Jan. 6 was a protest against a rigged election. That's what Jan. 6 was. It was nothing else. It was a protest against a rigged election. And the ones that they should go after are the people that rigged the election, not the people that were protesting."

It was an extraordinary statement. In the first portion of Trump's thought, he said repeatedly that he won the election. And in the second, he said that he lost the election. What does that mean? I can't read Trump's mind, but I have listened to him carefully for several years, and my view is that 1) he really believes that he won the 2020 election only to have scheming Democrats steal it from him, and 2) he knows that he is not now president of the United States. He's not the commander in chief. He doesn't sign bills into law. So in the sense of whether or not the election was fair, Trump maintains he won. And in the sense of who is now the president, Trump obviously is not.

Now, as he seeks to become president again, Trump will rely on what he sees as unequaled loyalty among his base of supporters. As he surveyed the scene at Mar-a-Lago, he said to me, "Look, you got to see just a little dose of it. If anything, there's more spirit now than I've ever seen."

(COMMENT, BELOW)




100 years ago,

March 27, 1924

MATTOON  The regular monthly carload of dairy car frames for use in loading carloads of eggs and dairy products out of Mattoon has just been unloaded by the Big Four at its freight depot. These frames of lumber are used as crafting for the floors and divisions in refrigerator cars of the Merchants' Dispatch Line, in order to keep the freight out of the water which accumulates in those cars which have no waterless flooring. The frames are made in Pennsylvania, it is said. It requires not less than one car a month of them for Mattoon poultry and dairy product shippers.

50 years ago, 1974

MATTOON  The vast majority of people are honest, according to Normal Hatfill of Mattoon. Hatfill, president of Electric Laboratory and Sales Corp. of Mattoon, spoke to the High 12 Club Tuesday in the Holiday Inn. The company has been in operation in Mattoon since 1945 as a tester and repairer of electric meters. The operation began in the basement of a man's house and has now grown into a large operation. The company moved into a two room complex with four employees, but soon outgrew the two rooms and moved into a 2,400 square foot building. This building has been expanded twice to meet the growth. Hatfill said that during the depression, meters were located inside the houses. "The people cheated on their meters so much that they were finally moved outside. One thing I have learned, though, in working with the public, is that the vast majority of the people are honest. At one time, I tested 5000 meters in the Quincy area and two people out of 5000 were guilty of cheating on their meters. They try all kinds of things. One man broke a hole in the glass which covered his meter. He would let the meter run part of the month, then he would place a stick in it to stop its operation for the rest of the month."

25 years ago, 1999

MATTOON  For two days last week there was no heat at Bennett School due to a malfunctioning boiler. For one entire morning there was no water for the 420 students to drink at the water fountains or flush the stools, and there is still no hot water in the school. "They brought in bottled water for the students to drink, but then we didn't want to let all the students go to the restroom because they couldn't flush the stools," said fourth-grade teacher Kathy Wright, citing one example of what she and other teachers have to contend with in Mattoon's aging elementary schools. "As educators, I don't think we should have to worry about those things. It takes away from our instructional time, and it's extremely distracting for the students...CHARLESTON  Just seven months after moving their classrooms from older school buildings to Carl Sandburg Elementary School, two of the school's teachers admit it's taken a period of adjustment. At the beginning of the year, many of the parents' concerns in Charleston are the same ones now being heard in Mattoon as the district considers a bond tax referendum on April 13. The plan would consolidate Mattoon's six elementary schools into two new larger schools. "It was a change not only for the students but for us as well," said first grade teacher Sandy Evans who had been a first grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary School for 13 of her 20 years teaching. "The students and the parents weren't the only ones who were attached to their school; we had to leave behind everything that we were used to  our classrooms and our friends."

Close Migration Madness participant Lethan Tariq perches on a tree stump while playing "cat tag" on Tuesday as part of this day camp offered at Douglas-Hart Nature Center during the Mattoon school district's spring break. Migration Madness participants Evelyn Sims, at left, and Steven Ballard balance on the trunk of a fallen tree while playing "cat tag." Migration Madness participants Maxine Elzer, at left, Knox Prasun and Henry Hammerschmidt make wings after earlier making paper airplanes. Nature center hosts day camp during Mattoon spring break The Douglas-Hart Nature Center is holding a series of themed day camps this week for children while they are out of school during the Mattoon district's spring break. Migration Madness participant Lethan Tariq perches on a tree stump while playing "cat tag" on Tuesday as part of this day camp offered at Douglas-Hart Nature Center during the Mattoon school district's spring break. Migration Madness participants Evelyn Sims, at left, and Steven Ballard balance on the trunk of a fallen tree while playing "cat tag." Migration Madness participants Maxine Elzer, at left, Knox Prasun and Henry Hammerschmidt make wings after earlier making paper airplanes.
MATTOON  Restoration work has begun on three vacant buildings at the northeast corner of Broadway Avenue and 15th Street.

Evan Drummond, manager of Jasper Holdings, LLC in Mattoon, said they plan to completely restore all three buildings to like-new condition. This will include new roofs, new store front windows and doors, and new facades. The old facades have already been removed.

We havent finalized floor plans yet," Drummond said. "However, we expect to create four to five commercial units with the entire redevelopment, three of them facing Broadway, and one to two facing 15th Street."

The interiors of each building will also be remodeled and laid out to accommodate many different types of businesses, Drummond said.

Weve been in communication with multiple businesses owners about potential uses for the spaces," Drummond said. "As always, our goal is to add businesses that will further enhance the already thriving downtown Mattoon business district.

The three buildings are located to the west of the former Time Theater building. A variety of businesses have come and gone over the years in the buildings at the northeast corner of Broadway and 15th, including the Happy China and Tres Hermanos restaurants.

Mattoon Public Library's Local History Center reports that, starting with Walt's Camera Shop in 1949, the corner storefront was home to camera shops and photo studios for decades until Mattoon Photo Inc. closed in 2003.

This section of Broadway is also set to get a new look this year via a city streetscaping project from 14th to 16th streets, which began Monday. The city plans to install new sidewalks, brick boulevards and decorative streetlights like it already has on the sections of Broadway to the west downtown.

12 Mattoon businesses through the years Anaconda Blaw-Knox Burtschi Central Illinois Public Service (CIPS) Consolidated Telemarketing Association (CTA) Douglas Nursing Center Downtown Aerial E. Rudy Place East Rudy Place Ellen Kay's General Electric Co. Mattoon Area Educational Extension Center
MATTOON  "Who Knows One?" is a cumulative riddle, and a Passover celebration tradition, in which each stanza gets progressively longer.

Those reading this poem aloud are encouraged to quickly say their assigned stanzas in one breath, if possible, which can be comically challenging as the stanzas mount up to 13.

During the Mattoon Jewish Community Center's community seder Tuesday evening, the voices and laughter of nearly 90 people reverberated through Burgess-Osborne Memorial Auditorium as they read the final stanza together during this Passover meal.

The voices belonged to not just members of this Mattoon-based Jewish congregation, but also to participants from more than a half dozen local Christian churches and faith-based groups.

Rabbi Bruce Pfeffer, who leads the Mattoon congregation, said seeing this multi-faith gathering be held for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic was a joy, especially during difficult times in the world.

"Right now, the world is in turmoil and it's helpful to do something together to remind ourselves we are all brothers, sisters and cousins. That's why we do this," Pfeffer said. "We lean on them, and they can lean on us when times are difficult."

Wednesday's event was organized with the help of Todd Krost, pastor of First United Methodist Church in Mattoon. Krost said he and center member Bruce Karmazin got talking about how there had not been a community seder since 2019, which led to them working on reviving this tradition.

Their efforts received a boost via a $2,750 grant from the Coles County Peace and Justice Fund, managed by the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation.

"I was honored to be part of such a wonderful multi-faith event and proud that Mattoon could come together in a display of unity in the face of increasing division and discord around us," Karmazin said.

Krost said as the war in Gaza continues and antisemitism rises in the world, he was glad to see the revived Passover meal help provide a sense of community for the Mattoon-based Jewish congregation.

The Lumpkin Family Foundation; Coles County Faith Alliance for Racial Justice; First Presbyterian, Second Missionary Baptist and Trinity Episcopal in Mattoon; and First Presbyterian, Wesley United Methodist and Home Church in Charleston also took part in the community seder.

Krost said the Christian church participants, in turn, experienced a traditional Jewish event that was uplifting and educational, providing a different take on the story of Exodus that both faiths share.

"We are all created as God's children," Krost said.

During the community event, Rabbi Pfeffer presented items that are part of traditional seder plates and discussed their meaning. For example, hard-boiled eggs are symbolic of Gods loving kindness.

Pfeffer also led the participants in reading passages from a Passover celebration book and singing songs such as the uplifting "Chad Gadyah," meaning a solitary young goat, about the Jewish people gaining their freedom from ancient Egypt.

"It was nice that people of different faiths could get together to enjoy a meal. It was good to share," said Mattoon Jewish congregation member Robby Gaffin of rural Effingham County.

His young daughter, Evelyn, said she enjoyed meeting new people at the Passover meal and getting to read one of the stanzas of "Who Knows One?" aloud.

Mattoon Jewish congregation member Mark Strauss said he was glad to see children attend the community seder and learn about Passover traditions.

"We are passing on our traditions. That's the most important thing, to pass it on so it is not lost," Strauss said.

Photos: Coles County Jewish community hosts Seder

Recipes to try for Easter and Passover: Savory matzo brei, roasted mustard pork loin and more This week's recipe roundup features classic seasonal dishes with a twist. Lifestyles Seriously Simple: Savory matzo brei is a Passover favorite Sweet or savory, matzo brei is a tradition to look forward to each year.
CHICAGO  In response to a continuing measles outbreak, Chicago officials are speeding up the process for migrants living at a densely populated shelter to become fully vaccinated and protected against the disease.

Previously unvaccinated migrants will receive a second dose of the measles vaccine 28 days after the first dosage, extending a quarantine period for children under age 5 that was instated to monitor and protect the most vulnerable population, the Chicago Department of Public Health said Monday.

There have been 31 confirmed cases of measles in Chicago this year, 21 of which are in children under the age of 5. Seven cases have been reported in the city in the past week despite an initial wave of vaccines administered two weeks ago.

Most of the cases are concentrated in the citys largest shelter, which houses families and many young children at 2241 S. Halsted St. on the Lower West Side, officials said. There are currently over 23 active shelters run by the city and state housing more than 10,400 migrants as of Tuesday.

The uptick in confirmed measles cases comes even as the city says it has administered 4,500 vaccines since the first case was detected on March 7. Young children are especially vulnerable to disease after receiving the first dosage of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, said CDPH Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo Ige.

While the MMR vaccine is the best protection against the virus, children are at highest risk for contracting breakthrough measles after receiving one dose of the vaccine, especially those less than 5 years old. Were seeing some of these cases at the Halsted shelter [on the Lower West Side] which isnt surprising, Ige said in a release.

Over the weekend, Lake and Will County reported a measles case in each county. Both were said to have been associated with the outbreak in Chicago.

Symptoms for measles typically occur roughly 10 to 14 days after exposure and can cause a rash, high fever and, in some cases, can cause serious illness in young children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems, according to health officials.

While measles is one of the most contagious pathogens, vaccination protects against the disease in almost every circumstance, said University of Chicago Medicine pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. David Zhang.

Theres a very easy fix and thats getting vaccinated, Zhang said. It starts and ends with vaccination.

Vaccination can also help protect people who were recently exposed to the disease. If an exposed person receives the first dose of the vaccine within 72 hours, evidence shows that complications could be less severe and less contagious, Zhang said.

Most Americans are protected with the MMR vaccine, which is a requirement to attend K-12 schools in Illinois unless students have religious or medical exceptions or previously contracted the disease. Students living in temporary housing can also receive exemptions if they have difficulty accessing vaccines.

However, the migrant population is largely from Venezuela, where experts say there is no public health data due to a crippled economy and health infrastructure under the leadership of far-left President Nicolas Maduro. As a result, it is difficult to know exactly how many migrants are vaccinated when they arrive. And many have lost their documentation along their journeys here.

Earlier this month, a report provided to the Tribune by the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless showed that fewer than half of Chicago Public Schools students without stable housing had met all of the districts immunization requirements. Its possible not all of those students were missing the measles vaccination, coalition leaders said.

The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children receive the first dose of the vaccine after they turn 12 months old. Typically, children receive the second dose between the ages of four and six, but it can be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose, according to CDC recommendations.

The shelter where the outbreak occurred houses families and many young children are staying there.

In the days following the shelters initial outbreak, the citys Public Health Department said it vaccinated more than 900 residents in a vaccination campaign that included assistance from the CDC and aldermen. Another 700 migrants were found to already be immune from previous vaccination or infection, health officials said.

The city is instructing migrant families to quarantine children age 1 to 5 eligible for the vaccine until at least 21 days after they receive a second dosage of the vaccine, which means keeping them home from daycare or school. That brings the total quarantine time to 49 days after the first dosage for approximately 50 young children enrolled in early learning programs residing at the shelter, according to the public health department.

Dr. Colleen Nash, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at Rush University Medical Center, said if children or pregnant women didnt have the vaccine at the time of the infection, they could be at greater risk.

Those patients, if they are susceptible to infection, might be at risk for more severe infection, she said.

Medical professionals also warn that quarantine in the midst of an outbreak could put stress on migrant families new to the city.

They just had a treacherous journey, were put in conditions that may not be familiar, maybe they dont speak the language, so communicating whats happening to them, and how its happening and whats happening is really important, said Dr. Aarati Didwania, an adult physician and associate professor of medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Children in quarantine and exposed patients should also be monitored and assessed, Didwania said, with plenty of medicine and supplies available.

We also have to make sure we have the medicines to treat some of the symptoms that theyre having, she said. Are we taking care of them individually by giving them things like Tylenol and things to make them feel more comfortable?

Maria Perez, a volunteer with Southwest Collective, passed out milk formula to mothers staying inside the shelter on the Lower West Side on a recent afternoon. She said there is a lot of uncertainty among the asylum seekers.

Its not their fault they never got medical attention, she said. Now theyre afraid theyre going to have to pay for it  but theyre also afraid of catching it and not knowing what long-term effects it could have.

While Nash said she hadnt seen this situation before, she had seen similar outbreaks in different areas of the country.

With every infection, there will be cases, she said. It would be expected and not unusual.

Nubia Willman, chief programs officer for Latinos Progresando and former director of the Office of New Americans for former Mayor Lori Lightfoot said during COVID-19, the mayors engagement team administered vaccines in churches and prioritized specific areas around the city with high infection rates.

She said those efforts were localized and done through trusted stakeholders.

We saw success with COVID, ensuring that we were engaging with communities in a way that (responded to) their cultural identity, she said. Its important that is happening here.

Willman stressed the importance of having medical providers who engage with asylum seekers in a culturally competent way. Most of the 36,000 migrants who have arrived in Chicago since August 2022 have walked or ridden buses across several countries to arrive in the United States. Many say they have witnessed death or experienced abuse along their journeys.

Its very easy to group Latinos together and think that were a monolith. The reality is that were all very diverse, Willman said.

But Willman said it is more challenging for undocumented immigrants, not just migrants, to get access to healthcare resources.

Its always complicated to ensure that federal resources  however they come to us  are accessible for people without insurance and people without citizenship, she said.
You are here: Business

Passengers get aboard on a train at Shapingba Railway Station in southwest China's Chongqing, Feb. 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

China's rail passenger trips jumped 36.2 percent year on year in the first two months of 2024, official data showed.



A total of 693.14 million passenger trips were recorded across the country's rail networks during the period, according to the Ministry of Transport.

China's rail freight volume, a key indicator of economic activities, edged down 0.5 percent year on year to 805.87 million tonnes.

The data also showed that China's fixed-asset investment in railways reached 65.2 billion yuan (about 9.19 billion U.S. dollars) in the first two months, up 9.5 percent year on year.
Protesters repeated their demands on Monday that the Winston-Salem City Council pass a resolution calling for a ceasefire in war-torn Gaza, but city elected leaders said Tuesday that the council is unlikely to act.

As they have been doing for weeks, protesters assembled at City Hall in advance of a council meeting, with some speaking during the public comment period.

This time, the group staged a vigil in the lobby of City Hall. On one side of the room, protesters held a long banner with the slogan Ceasefire Now, while on the other side of the lobby, another banner said Free Palestine, along with the controversial slogan, From the River to the Sea.

At the foot of the banner were oblong objects wrapped in white with red marks on them representing blood stains.

That represents the kids that have been murdered so far, said Sarra Alqahtani, holding up one end of the banner. Although the slogan on the banner is seen by some as an antisemitic call for the elimination of Israel, Alqahtani said the slogan means not that, but uniting Gaza and the West Bank.

During the public comment period, public school teacher Rafia Kirmani told council members why she believes the city council should pass a resolution:

At this moment, it does not matter if you agree with our call that a genocide is happening, Kirmani said. At this moment, 1.5 million displaced Palestinian civilians are seeking refuge in Rafah as demanded by Israeli forces and are now being bombed, shot, tortured or starved. Whether or not this is being done to retrieve hostages, killing innocent lives is not how this retrieval should be conducted.

Rafah is a city on the southern border of Gaza with Egypt. The Israeli military is planning an offensive there as part of its stated goal of eliminating Hamas, the group that led the Oct. 7, 2023, attack into Israel that resulted in civilian massacres and the taking of hostages.

Critics say the civilian toll among Palestinians in Gaza because of the Israeli response has been much too high. The U.S., which has backed Israels offensive, abstained on Monday in a United Nations Security Council vote calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Mayor Allen Joines said Tuesday that he was happy to see the ceasefire resolution pass at the U.N., but doesnt see the issue as one the city should weigh in on with a resolution:

I touched base with all the council members some time ago, and they are of the opinion that this is a matter that is not germane to city government, Joines said. We are all sympathetic to the cause there, but we try to stick to issues that deal with Winston-Salem.

Council Member Jeff MacIntosh said he understands the frustrations of protesters who feel powerless and want the city to do what we can.

People dont ask the school board to fix potholes, he said. We are not really in charge of policy on Gaza. It (a resolution) is a gesture, and I dont see the gesture as being worthwhile to make.

Echoing the mayor, MacIntosh said the city usually avoids resolutions not directly connected to city affairs.

It does not mean that we disagree, we just dont feel like our role is to do a resolution.

Haneen Nassef, one of the speakers talking to council during public comments, said she believes city action can help:

Ive learned that we should always do what we can, where we are with what we have, she said. And you sitting in these seats today, you have and you sure can do a lot to stop this genocide and bloodshed ... what if you were in their place, what if you lost your limbs, going through starvation, lost your beloved children, your home has got bombed and your memories have been crushed ...
Soggy Wednesday.

In the not so distant past, local officials were hesitant to reach for the municipal nuclear option  nuisance abatement ordinances  to deal with persistent problems within city limits.

With good reason.

Using the law to declare private property a public nuisance was, is and should be an arduous process.

Officials across any number of a citys departments including housing, inspections, police would need to spend weeks compiling evidence that a dwelling or business presented some sort of danger to the taxpaying public.

Then the lawyers would get involved by filing complaints and going to court to convince a Superior Court judge that shuttering (or demolishing) needed doing.

Finally fed up, officials in both Winston-Salem and Greensboro appear to have gotten more aggressive about going nuclear in their dealings with certain businesses  nightclubs, bars and strip joints, say  known for fomenting dope deals and gun violence.

And they just might be onto something.

The most recent example came Monday in Greensboro when Superior Court Judge William Wood approved an agreement between the owners of the Secrets Cabaret strip club on West Gate City Boulevard and city attorneys that effectively shutters the joint.

The process began Feb. 22 when the city formally filed a nuisance complaint days after Greensboro police and the N.C. Alcohol Law Enforcement agency not so secretly raided Secrets and seized guns, dope, cash and alcohol being served illegally. Eleven people were charged in connection with nefarious activities inside the club.

As nuisance complaints go, this one moved rapidly  most likely because the owners and city lawyers reached a deal rather than battle it out in court.

And judging by the terms of the agreement, the negotiation appears more like a one-sided directive rather than any sort of give-and-take.

JEMM, the company which owns the property, agreed to sell the property to someone (or something) unaffiliated with JEMM within six months.

During that time, the building has to remain vacant, which means no income, and Greensboro cops are authorized to charge anyone caught on the property with trespassing.

And if the building isnt sold, the city will be allowed to order its demolition with the owners footing the bill.

The citys end of the deal? The lawyers agreed to drop the complaint.

I hope this judgment puts other property owners on notice that we will not tolerate nuisance activity and violence within the city of Greensboro, Mayor Nancy Vaughan said in a prepared statement.

So yeah, the nuclear option.

Mondays agreement came on the heels of similar complaints across the Triad.

Winston-Salem officials went straight to Defcon 1 in November after five people were wounded when a gun-toting knucklehead decided to shoot up the Spott bar on North Glenn Avenue.

A 26-year-old woman named Briyonna Mickens-Gambille was charged Nov. 29 with five counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and for good measure a sixth felony for discharging a firearm within an enclosure to incite fear.

Has there ever been a more fitting charge? What else would you call such an act?

Oh, and the attempted massacre came just weeks after a man was killed at the bar on Nov. 4. Six people shot in the same Spott in the same month sure seems to fit the very definition of nuisance.

In that negotiation, the bars owner agreed to voluntarily surrender his liquor license.

I talked to the city attorney  and we are collecting data on that right now, Mayor Allen Joines said afterward. We dont do it lightly, and the courts would not approve it without significant data.

Not that nuisance complaints are any kind of arms race, Vaughan floated the idea of using applicable ordinances to go after a watering hole called Electric Tequila Bar & Grill on Battleground Avenue.

Her honor, see, happened to have a front-row seat during a police ride along the night of Nov. 4.

Normally, ride-alongs for elected officials amount to guided tours dressed up as fact finding missions.

But that night, patrol cars enveloped Electric Tequila following an eruption of gunfire. Two people suffered life-threatening injuries and several unoccupied vehicles were struck.

Investigators would wind up spending some 500 hours on the case. The cops charged five people in connection with the shootings and said earlier this month that 14 guns were used and some 116 spent shell casings were recovered.

Videos circulated on YouTube  what else?  helped focus attention on the bar and ramped up public pressure to get something done.

The nuclear option wasnt needed, though.

Maybe it was the mere threat of a complaint. Or just as likely, perhaps the landlord had had enough. Either way, Electric Tequilas lease was canceled.

Nuisance abatement, legally speaking, is a difficult bar for cities to clear. It should be the ax behind the glass  used only in case of emergency.

But with record numbers of killings in Triad cities in recent years and Congress unwilling or unable to do anything substantial about gun violence, its been left to local officials to use whatever legal means at their disposal to fight back.

And by aggressively using nuisance laws, it sure looks as if theyre onto something.

On the good side of the ledger

Not that we care about mayoral reading lists or want to seem as if weve been cyber stalking elected officials, but a social media share by Mayor Nancy Vaughan a few days ago is worth noting.

In a Facebook post over the weekend, Vaughan shared a link to a story published earlier this month in The New York Times which showed Winston-Salem and Greensboro atop a very desirable list.

And because shes thorough, the mayor helpfully cut and pasted the key bits for interested parties to see.

Winston-Salem came out on top of a list of 100 U.S. cities for the biggest drop in rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the last year with a 19 percent decrease to an average $850 per month.

Greensboro and Albuquerque, N.M. were right behind with 18 percent ($930 per month) and 15 percent ($900) decreases respectively.

A real-estate outfit called Zumper looked at over 1 million apartment listings in 100 cities to mine for trends.

Rents for one-bedroom places fell in 57, stayed about the same in 11 and increased in 32 cities. Recent construction accounted for the decline.

Syracuse, N.Y with a 22 percent increase ($1,050 per month), Chicago at 21 percent ($2,170) and New York City at 18 percent ($4,200) topped the wrong side of the ledger.
Federal prosecutors have dropped a drug conspiracy case against an over-the-road trucker based in Lincoln.

The decision follows a mistrial at Richard Garza's jury trial in U.S. District Court in October on a charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana in the area.

"After review of the matter, and after consultation with law enforcement, the United States has decided not to pursue a retrial," Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Fullerton wrote earlier this month in a motion to dismiss the conspiracy count.

It since has been dismissed.

Garza still faces sentencing in June for witness tampering involving the bribery of a witness on 2022, for which the jury found him guilty.

They found him not guilty of a second witness tampering charge involving alleged death threats to another witness.

Garza was arrested in Texas in 2022 on the indictment. But the investigation dated back to Nov. 1, 2020, when an abandoned 911 call traced to a home in University Place led to the discovery of a cache of drugs and guns and the arrest of Jose DeLira, a Texas man who was there.

When police saw drug paraphernalia and smelled marijuana, they got a warrant to search and found $4,521 in cash and $5,660 in counterfeit money, more than 1/3 of a pound of methamphetamine, about an ounce of cocaine, 4 pounds of marijuana, nearly 200 assorted pills, drug packaging materials and firearms.

DeLira, of McAllen, Texas, later was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison. And, last year, the man who lived at the Lincoln home, Roger Vaughn, was sentenced to 15 years. Both pleaded guilty.

Another man connected to the conspiracy, Raymond Maestas, got 20 years for a traffic stop on Feb. 28, 2021, that led to the discovery of 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine in a hidden compartment, 13 suspected fentanyl pills and two guns.

The U.S. Attorney's Office said that between August 2020 and February 2021, DeLira was involved in a conspiracy to obtain meth and other drugs in Mexico, Texas and Arizona. He introduced Lincoln people to drug sources in Mexico and helped with efforts to transport drugs from source locations to Lincoln.

Federal prosecutors originally alleged Garza was the boss of the operation, but his trial attorney, Brett McArthur, said the facts didn't support that, and all the trial witnesses were repeat offenders who had struck deals to testify.

10 most common barriers to seeking treatment for substance use disorder Understanding barriers to seeking treatment #9. No openings in a program #8. Treatment would not help #7. Did not have time #6. Did not feel a need for treatment at the time #5. Did not want others to find out #4. Could handle the problem without treatment #3. Might cause neighbors/community to have negative opinion #2. Did not find a program that offered the type of treatment wanted #1. No health care coverage and could not afford cost Other reasons
In a packed courtroom Wednesday with an overflow room of friends and family watching in the next building, a Lincoln man was sentenced to 60 years to life in prison for shooting his neighbor to death in response to a minor car accident.

First, Karsen Rezac, 24, turned to face Kupo Mleya's family and loved ones and offered an apology.

"My actions led them to have to say goodbye to such a kind soul, a father and a son, way too soon," Rezac said of Mleya, who lived a block away from him though the two never had met. "This is nothing less than a tragedy, one that I take full responsibility for."

He said he wished he could take back what happened.

"This horrendous act that I've committed, I would have never thought I would be capable of," Rezac said.

Prosecutors said at 12:20 a.m. Dec. 23, 2022, Lincoln police were called to South 20th and Washington streets on reports of the sound of a crash, then several gunshots.

Officers found Mleya, still in the drivers seat, with gunshot wounds to his head, his Jeep Patriot riddled with bullet holes and the drivers window shattered.

The 38-year-old Lincoln man died at the scene.

Police quickly tied the crime to Rezac, who had driven away, leaving his SUV parked nearby with damage to its passenger side and a window consistent with debris left at the scene and gunshots.

A search turned up nine spent casings and a 9mm Glock handgun in the center console.

When investigators interviewed Rezac the next day, he told police he was backing out of his driveway when the Jeep "slammed" into him and he "freaked out" and grabbed the 9mm handgun in the center console.

Last month, Rezac pleaded no contest to second-degree murder for it as part of a plea agreement.

In court Wednesday, Rezac said he has come to realize that his demons need to be addressed, instead he suppressed them with substance abuse. He said he plans to work to improve himself during his prison term.

Lancaster County Attorney Patrick Condon said Mleya's family literally had come from across the world to attend the sentencing: from South Africa and Zimbabwe to Japan and Texas.

He said what they all wanted was for Kupo to be there.

"You can't do that. So I'd ask that you punish Mr. Rezac with a lengthy sentence. Hopefully this will provide some closure for Kupo Mleya's family and friends," Condon said.

Aside from keeping the community safe, he said, it also will let others know the "serious consequences they face when they engage in his kind of conduct."

Then, Lancaster County District Judge Lori Maret said she was provided a lot of information that might have given an explanation how they had arrived at that fateful evening.

"But still not a why," she said.

Maret said Rezac had depression and anxiety and suffered personal losses, but he had the resources to deal with his mental health problems. When he was 17, he had another case involving substances and firearms, which was transferred to juvenile court.

"At that point, I wondered why exactly did you feel that you needed to obtain another firearm just a couple months prior to this incident," the judge said. "Throughout all of the information that I received, there's no information about 'the why' for that question."

She said Rezac had settled into a victimhood seen in this culture among people his age. Though he had access to resources and medication, he still used marijuana, cocaine and mushrooms, which only made his bad situation worse.

"Nobody wins here today," Maret said. "The safest place for the community is with you not in it."

And she announced Rezac's sentence, with the sounds of muffled crying and quiet sighs throughout the courtroom.

Outside the courtroom, family and friends hugged and shared tears. Some wore T-shirts commemorating Mleya, whose memorial drew hundreds.

Mleya, a native of Zimbabwe, emigrated to the U.S. to attend school. He had a daughter and had worked at the Lincoln bike shop Cycle Works, at Frontier Harley-Davidson and as a groundskeeper at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he was a student in the late 2010s.

Remembering Lincoln's homicide victims of 2023 1. Julian A. Martinez 2. Rudy Requejo Jr. 3. Ronald Gonzalez Rivas 4. Christopher Karmazin 5. Damien Brave 6. Mark Kruger 7. James Baylor
Lancaster County Commissioner Matt Schulte argued Tuesday  unsuccessfully  that two Lincoln-Lancaster County Board of Health members who served during the pandemic should not be reappointed because they misguided the community and led us astray.

Three members of the nine-member Board of Health were up for reappointment: Jay Jarvis, co-founder of Lazlo's, who was appointed in 2021; Jasmine Kingsley, a Harvard Law School graduate who works for Hudl and was appointed in 2019, and Dustin Loy, a University of Nebraska-Lincoln professor, veterinary diagnostic microbiologist and faculty supervisor for the bacteriology and molecular diagnostic laboratories in the Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Center, who was appointed in 2018.

The City Council earlier unanimously approved reappointment of all three and, in the end, the County Board also voted Tuesday to reappoint them.

Commissioners unanimously reappointed Jarvis, who was not on the board during the height of the pandemic.

But Schulte asked that the other two be considered separately and read prepared comments that raised issues hotly debated during the pandemic, including the countys mask mandate and school closures.

Under their leadership the Lincoln Board of Health spewed guesses as facts, told us a shot was a vaccine, encouraged employers to require it before returning to work, he said. They shut down businesses driving our economy into disarray. They maintained an ineffective mask mandate even into the small towns of our county who clearly didnt need it. They closed religious services. And dealt in fear.

He said the County Board should "listen to all the facts" and consider the smaller communities, not just the will of the Lincoln mayor.

Schultes fellow commissioners, who apparently didnt know he was going to oppose the appointments, didnt respond during the discussion period, but all voted to approve Kingsley and Loy. Schulte voted against their reappointment.

The health board is an advisory board, not a policy-making board, and most decisions about health directives were made by the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department leaders.

In addition to one City Council member and county commissioner, the health board is comprised of a physician, dentist, veterinarian and four community members. Members are nominated by the mayor and then approved by the County Board and City Council.

City Councilman James Michael Bowers, who is president of the volunteer board, said hes served with both members for a number of years.

Its disappointing that once again Matt Schulte is playing games with citizens who have served their city admirably during one of the most difficult times weve had as a community, he said.

Its been an honor to serve beside them. Were lucky to have them in our city and I proudly support the unanimous vote the council took to promote the health of our city and county.

County Commissioner Christa Yoakum said the city and county rely on many volunteer board members who want to serve their communities.

I dont share his opinion and Im really glad we had a Health Department, a health board, that are community volunteers who cared about our community during that time, she said.

Commissioner Sean Flowerday is also a member of the health board. He couldn't be reached after the meeting for comment.

During the pandemic, the Health Department and Pat Lopez, its director, became a flashpoint for controversy. It was the only Health Department that was allowed to act outside the authority of the state and issued a mask mandate because of a wrinkle in state law.

Lincoln Public Schools  like schools across the state  closed in early March, and on April 1, then-Gov. Pete Ricketts issued a health directive that schools across the state would remain closed until the end of the school year.

In the fall of 2020, LPS opened with a hybrid system  allowing students to come back or learn remotely. Across the nation many schools  especially those on the coasts  remained closed that school year.

According to Health Department data, the Lancaster County death rate was lower than the statewide death rate and, had the countys death rate been the same as the states, an additional 342 people would have died between March 2020 and February 2023.

The death rate in Lancaster County during that time period was 146 per 100,000 and the states was 251 per 100,000, the Health Department said, and as of February 2023, the countys death rate was nearly 42% lower than the states.

Top Journal Star photos for March 2024
A series of Israeli airstrikes across southern Lebanon on Wednesday killed at least 16 people, including paramedics, in one of the deadliest days of fighting in the Israel-Lebanon border since the war in Gaza broke out almost six months ago.

A barrage of rockets also killed one Israeli and was claimed by the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, which said it was responding to a deadly airstrike targeting a paramedic center linked to a Sunni Muslim group.

International mediators are scrambling to prevent an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah amid near-daily violence, mostly confined to the area along the Lebanon-Israel border.

Hezbollah has been launching rockets toward Israel since Oct. 8, the day after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel, triggering the war in Gaza. Some 1,200 people were killed in Israel and another 250 people abducted.

More than 32,000 people have been killed in Gaza and 74,000 wounded, according to the Health Ministry, which doesn't differentiate between civilians and combatants in its tally. The ministry says women and children make up two-thirds of the dead.

Meanwhile, talks restarted aimed at bringing top Israeli officials to Washington to discuss potential military operations in Gaza, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a planned visit this week because he was angry about the U.S. abstention on a U.N. cease-fire resolution, the White House said Wednesday.

So were now working with them to find a convenient date thats obviously going to work for both sides," said press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. No date has been finalized yet.

An Israeli official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the White House reached out with the goal of setting a new meeting. Netanyahus office said the prime minister did not authorize the departure of the delegation to Washington.

The prime minister canceled the trip this week after the U.N. vote to demand a cease-fire in Gaza; the U.S. abstained from the vote but did not veto it.

Netanyahu accused the United States of retreating from a principled position by allowing the resolution to pass without conditioning the cease-fire on the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The delegation to the U.S. was meant to discuss a promised ground invasion of the southern Gaza city of Rafah, which is overflowing with displaced civilians. Israel has so far rejected American appeals to call off the planned operation.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant was already in Washington by the time Netanyahu canceled the trip by other officials. Gallant met with Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. The Gaza operation was one of many topics they discussed.

Netanyahu said Wednesday his decision to cancel was meant to deliver a message to Hamas that international pressure against Israel will not prompt it to end the war without concessions from the militant group, an apparent attempt to smooth over the clash between the allies.

Netanyahu downplayed U.S. fears of a humanitarian catastrophe if Israel launches the planned ground invasion into Rafah, saying civilians would be able to flee the fighting into other parts of the war-torn territory.

Speaking Wednesday to a bipartisan U.S. Congressional delegation visiting Israel, Netanyahu said people sheltering in Rafah  now more than half of Gazas 2.3 million population  will be able to move away from the fighting.

People just move, they move with their tents, Netanyahu said. People moved down (to Rafah). They can move back up.

U.N. humanitarian officials said Wednesday that two-thirds of Gaza's 36 hospitals aren't functioning after Al Amal Hospital in the south of the territory ceased operation amid intense military activity.

According to the U.N. World Health Organization, Gaza now has just 12 operating hospitals  two that are "minimally functional" and 10 that are partially functional, four in the north and six in the south, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters.

Andrea De Domenico, the head of U.N. humanitarian operations in the Palestinian territories, visited the partially functioning Kamal Adwan hospital in the north last week and reported that it is receiving "about 15 malnourished children a day and is struggling to maintain services," Dujarric said.

"The hospital's only generator has been heavily damaged, and health workers and patients desperately need food, water and sanitation assistance," the U.N. spokesman said.

According to the U.N. World Food Program, Dujarric said, about 70% of northern Gaza's population "is facing catastrophic hunger" but efforts to deliver life-saving aid have been impeded by fighting and "access constraints" in getting food to those in need.

This month, WFP was only able to send 11 convoys to the north with food for some 74,000 people, far below the colossal needs of the population, Dujarric said.
NEW YORK  Former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in the disputed 2000 election and who almost became Republican John McCain's running mate eight years later, has died, according to a statement issued by his family.

Lieberman died in New York City on Wednesday due to complications from a fall, the statement said. He was 82.

The Democrat-turned-independent was never shy about veering from the party line.

Lieberman's independent streak and especially his needling of Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential contest rankled many Democrats, the party he aligned with in the Senate. Yet his support for gay rights, civil rights, abortion rights and environmental causes at times won him the praise of many liberals over the years.

Lieberman came tantalizingly close to winning the vice presidency in the contentious 2000 presidential contest that was decided by a 537-vote margin victory for George W. Bush in Florida after a drawn-out recount, legal challenges and a Supreme Court decision. He was the first Jewish candidate on a major partys presidential ticket and would have been the first Jewish vice president.

He was also the first national Democrat to publicly criticize President Bill Clinton for his extramarital affair with a White House intern.

Lieberman sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 but dropped out after a weak showing in the early primaries. Four years later, he was an independent who was nearly chosen to be McCains running mate. He and McCain were close pals who shared hawkish views on military and national security matters.

McCain was leaning strongly toward choosing Lieberman for the ticket as the 2008 GOP convention neared, but he chose Sarah Palin at the last minute after ferocious blowback from conservatives over Liebermans liberal record, according to Steve Schmidt, who managed McCains campaign.

Lieberman generated controversy in 1998 when he scolded Clinton, his friend of many years, for disgraceful behavior in an explosive speech on the Senate floor during the height of the scandal over his relationship with Monica Lewinsky. Yet Lieberman later voted against the impeachment of Clinton.

He defended his partisan switches as a matter of conscience, saying he always had the best interests of Connecticut voters at heart. Critics accused him of pursuing narrow self-interest and political expediency.

In announcing his retirement from the Senate in 2013, Lieberman acknowledged that he did not always fit comfortably into conventional political boxes and felt his first responsibility was to serve his constituents, state and country, not his political party. He had a tortured relationship with Democrats.

During his final Senate speech, Lieberman urged Congress to look beyond party lines and partisan rancor to break Washington gridlock.

It requires reaching across the aisle and finding partners from the opposite party, said Lieberman. That is what is desperately needed in Washington now.

Harry Reid, who served as Senate Democratic leader, once said that while he didnt always agree with the independent-minded Lieberman, he respected him.

Regardless of our differences, I have never doubted Joe Liebermans principles or his patriotism, Reid said. And I respect his independent streak, as it stems from strong convictions.

Privately, some Democrats were often less charitable about Liebermans forays across party lines, which they saw as disloyal. He bolted his party and turned independent after a 2006 Senate primary loss in Connecticut.

Liebermans strong support of the Iraq War hurt his statewide popularity. Democrats rejected Lieberman and handed the 2006 primary to a political newcomer and an anti-war candidate, Ned Lamont.

Defying Democratic leaders and friends, Lieberman ran successfully for reelection as an independent and drew support from some Republican allies. Lieberman won praise from the White House and fundraising help from prominent Republicans, such as then-New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg, who himself later ran as an independent.

Liebermans speech at the 2008 GOP presidential nominating convention criticizing Obama, the Democratic presidential nominee, struck a deep nerve with many Democrats.

After the election, there was speculation Senate Democrats might strip Lieberman of his chairmanship of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as payback. Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., chair of the Judiciary Committee, was among those who said Lieberman should lose his chairmanship. Leahy branded Liebermans attacks on Obama as beyond the pale.

But at Obamas urging, Senate Democrats decided not to punish Lieberman for supporting McCain and the GOP ticket. Obama was eager to strike a bipartisan tone for his presidency and giving Lieberman a pass helped reinforce that message.

Yet Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent and staunch liberal, called it a slap in the face for millions of Americans who backed Obama.

Lieberman was known in the Senate for his hawkish foreign policy views, his pro-defense bent and his strong support for environmental causes.

He played a key role in the legislation that created the Department of Homeland Security.

Lieberman grew up in Stamford, Connecticut, where his father ran a liquor store. Lieberman graduated from Yale University and Yale Law School in New Haven As Connecticuts attorney general from 1983 to 1988, he was a strong consumer and environmental advocate. Lieberman vaulted into the Senate by defeating moderate Republican incumbent Lowell Weicker in 1988.

After leaving the Senate in 2013, Lieberman joined a New York City law firm.

Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah, have four children.

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U.S. electric vehicle maker Tesla is in talks with the Italian government to open a production facility in the country, Italian media reported Tuesday.

Tesla has been engaged in talks with the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy for several months, with the plan to produce electric trucks and vans in southern Italy, according to media reports.

Reports revealed that Tesla officials have already begun evaluating potential sites for the production facility.

The contact between Tesla and the Italian government occurred as Rome engaged with multiple automakers in a bid to ramp up its car production.

Earlier this year, Adolfo Urso, minister of enterprises, said Italy needed to raise its national car production to 1.3 million vehicles a year from below 800,000 in 2023 to preserve its national auto industry amid challenges posed by the transition to electric mobility.

Media reports indicated that Italy is also engaging in discussions with three Chinese vehicle manufacturers: BYD, Great Wall Motors, and Chery Automobile.
The Legislature's Executive Board will take an almost never-used step Thursday afternoon when it hears a resolution aimed at disciplining a lawmaker who used other senators' names while reading an account of a graphic rape during floor debate.

Only once in the history of the unicameral system, at least according to long-time observers, have Nebraska state lawmakers voted to censure one of their own  a 1955 incident that involved a senator who accepted cash and favors in exchange for not introducing a bill imposing a tax on jukeboxes.

While it's not uncommon for Nebraska state senators to invoke the threat of censure against colleagues they feel have crossed a line for things said both on or off the floor, hearings like the one scheduled Thursday are rare.

But the state senators  one Republican, one Democrat  pushing the latest measure say that without a formal process for members of the Legislature or employees of the legislative branch to address complaints about sexual harassment and misconduct, filing a censure resolution was the best option available.

"We're stuck in this cycle of increasingly problematic behavior where you can point to the last guy and go, 'Well, he got away with it,'" said Sen. Julie Slama of Dunbar. "Until somebody raises their hand and goes, 'No, we're going to have a fight over this,' it's going to keep getting worse."

The "problematic behavior" in this case occurred last week during the first late evening floor debate in which Sen. Steve Halloran invoked the name of several of his colleagues while reading a graphic description of rape from the memoir "Lucky" written by Alice Sebold, a survivor of sexual assault.

At one point while reading the account, Halloran inserted the name "Sen. Cavanaugh"  both Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh and Sen. John Cavanaugh were participating in the debate  at the end of a sentence where the perpetrator of the rape demanded oral sex from the victim.

The incident quickly went viral on social media and eventually made national news.

Throughout the night and into the next morning, several lawmakers rebuked Halloran for his actions and demanded he apologize and resign, saying he acted inappropriately and set a bad example for the state.

Halloran, a term-limited senator who chairs the Agriculture Committee, apologized for using his colleagues' names, but said the outrage should be directed at the book rather than him.

He also said when the transcript of the debate is available that it would be more apparent he was seeking to get the attention of the senators he named rather than insert them into the graphic text.

By the end of the week, however, Machaela Cavanaugh and Slama, who was the only senator to demand Halloran's resignation on the floor, filed a resolution to censure the Hastings lawmaker, launching a seldom-used legislative process.

Cavanaugh said the resolution was the only option available to her after the Legislature abruptly adjourned following Halloran's statements.

A motion to strike words excepted to  the parliamentary process that would normally precede a censure motion  can only be done immediately after those words are spoken during debate, she said.

"I wanted to take some time to think about the appropriate response and I wanted to put some distance between the incident," Cavanaugh said, adding she also wanted the debate over LB441, which would have enacted penalties for K-12 educators who provide students with obscene materials, to reach a conclusion.

The Omaha Democrat found a partner in Slama, a Republican, who has also been subjected to sexual comments by colleagues in the Legislature, including in 2020 when she was compared to Sally Hemings, a slave woman owned by Thomas Jefferson, by former Omaha Sen. Ernie Chambers.

Chambers faced backlash from several senators as well as calls for his expulsion, both inside the Legislature as well as from outside, but no disciplinary action was taken against him.

"If you're Cavanaugh, you can filibuster every bill, but if you're some staffer going through it, you're going to face the same pressure that Cavanaugh faced, that I faced, to just let it go," Slama said.

Hearing on Thursday

The resolution (LR335) filed jointly by Cavanaugh and Slama seeks to censure and condemn Halloran for conduct "unbecoming a member of the Nebraska Legislature," that has "shaken the confidence of the people of the state."

It also asks the Legislature to deem Halloran's comments rise "to the level of harassment and hostility to" a fellow state senator.

The Executive Board will hold a public hearing on the resolution at 3 p.m. on Thursday in Room 1524 in the state Capitol. The proceedings also will be broadcast online on Nebraska Public Media.

Only four people will be allowed to speak during the hearing, according to Sen. Ray Aguilar of Grand Island, the chairman of the Executive Board, which is charged with oversight of legislative ethics.

"For me, it's more of a case of let's keep it simple and get it over with," Aguilar said.

Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh will speak first and then Sen. John Cavanaugh and Lincoln Sen. George Dungan  both of whom were included in Halloran's remarks  have been invited to speak. Each will have five minutes to address the board and answer any questions asked by senators.

Then, Halloran will get his opportunity to address the Executive Board, of which Slama is a member.

Aguilar said Machaela Cavanaugh would then get the opportunity to offer closing remarks on the resolution before the hearing ends.

Both Cavanaugh and Slama said they want to see the Executive Board move the resolution to the floor for consideration by the full Legislature.

"If the body thinks this is appropriate, then I would like them to stand up and say it," Cavanaugh said. "I would like to know which of my colleagues thinks it's OK for me to be sexually harassed."

Slama said she believes the Legislature needs to set boundaries about what is appropriate and what is inappropriate for the benefit of future lawmakers.

"Unless you set a bar, it's going to keep getting worse," she said.

But both senators said they realize there are headwinds ahead.

Slama said lawmakers will often point to other things being considered as more important than dealing with the internal workings of the Legislature. Cavanaugh said she believes the committee has already made up its mind not to move the resolution in the waning days of the session.

"If it does get out of committee, it will probably be an ugly fight," she said.

In a post Tuesday evening on X, formerly known as Twitter, the NEGOP said it opposed the censure resolution and said the Legislature "is playing with fire, rules and precedents by exploring this action."

Aguilar, who last week announced a panel of three lawmakers would conduct an investigation into whether or not Halloran's statements rose to the level of workplace harassment, said it's unclear whether the committee will take a vote to advance it.

"It's up in the air at this point," he said.

Censure rarely successful

Censure, whether threatened or actually invoked, rarely moves down the legislative tracks, no matter who it is aimed at.

Chambers faced multiple calls to be censured throughout his time as Nebraska's longest-serving state senator:

* In 1971, Sen. John DeCamp of Neligh filed a motion in committee to censure Chambers "for his comments and attitude" toward a special study group exploring prison reform, but Lincoln Sen. Roland Luedtke later convinced him to drop it because only the full Legislature could take that action.

* Lawmakers also sought to censure Chambers after he accused an assistant attorney general of seeking sexual gratification in pursuing the death penalty for Harold Lamont "Wili" Otey in 1991, though the effort was dropped because the Omaha senator's comments were made outside the legislative chamber.

* The National Catholic League pushed the Legislature to censure Chambers in 2001 for what it described was an "anti-Catholic tirade" made during floor debate. The Legislature later determined legislators are generally immune to acts or statements made in their formal capacity.

* And in 2015, former Rep. Jeff Fortenberry said Chambers should be censured for comparing law enforcement officers to the so-called Islamic State during a committee hearing.

Other senators who faced possible discipline for their actions and words  Sen. Bill Kintner of Papillion, who used a state computer to engage in cybersex, and Sen. Mike Groene of North Platte, who was accused of taking photos of staff members without their knowledge  resigned before action could be taken.

The only case of a successful censure in Nebraska's history came when Omaha Sen. Sam Klaver convinced jukebox operators to pay him $1,000 in cash and $1,500 in advertising purchases to fight against a bill that would tax their businesses.

A trio of state senators caught wind of Klaver's activities and exposed it to the Legislature, which after forming an investigatory committee that held a closed-door hearing, ultimately advanced the measure to the body, which voted to formally discipline him in 1955.

Despite the black mark on his record, Klaver was ultimately reelected and ended up serving in the Legislature until 1973.

Meet the Nebraska state senators making laws in 2024
Nebraska lawmakers voted to advance a bill Wednesday that would require pornographic websites and other online distributors of "material harmful to minors" to verify the age of website users.

In a vote that fell largely along party lines, the Legislature voted 31-0 to give LB1092 first-round approval, eschewing concerns raised by some lawmakers over the proposal's enforceability and potential unintended consequences.

Fifteen lawmakers  mostly Democrats  who were present Wednesday did not cast a vote on the measure, signaling opposition to the proposal that critics characterized as a half-baked attempt to curb minors' broad access to porn.

Introduced by Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, the bill would require adult websites, or third-party companies they contract, to verify that users attempting to access the sites are at least 18 years old through a "reasonable age verification method," which could include a photo ID or driver's license or other documentation  such as a credit card statement  that could serve as "a reliable proxy for age."

The bill would bar websites or third-party contractors from retaining users' personal information and would allow users or their parents the right to sue adult websites that do not comply with the law.

"There is, indeed, endless hours of unlimited graphic material on the internet that, right now, our children have unfettered access to," Murman said amid debate on his bill, which lasted more than four hours across two days this week. "It doesn't have to be that way."

Murman pointed to academic research that has linked porn consumption to increased rates of depression, anxiety, violent behavior, a distorted view of relationships between men and women, among other negative emotional, psychological and physical health outcomes.

"The content that our children is being exposed to is increasingly concerning," he said. "Online pornography is undoubtedly violent  and that violence is taking its toll."

The bill's opponents  led by Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue  broadly cast Murman's proposal as a well-intended but ineffective route forward, highlighting widely accessible means of circumventing age verification tools while raising questions over privacy, government overreach and how the state might police compliance.

"Today, you're gonna pass a bill celebrating how you made it harder for kids to get to paid porn sites while opening up a giant door allowing Nebraskans who are adults to have their data stolen," Blood said. "You forget that most online porn is free, and even available on sites like Twitter."

The bill does not specifically target websites that charge users to view adult content but does carve out exceptions for social media sites and news platforms. Lawmakers adopted an amendment to the bill Wednesday to narrow the scope of the age verification requirement to apply only to websites where "more than one third of the total material" published is "harmful."

Blood and other opponents noted that teens or even grade-schoolers could utilize free virtual private networks, or VPNs, to access porn sites in Nebraska if the proposal is made law.

And Blood warned that the bill  which she repeatedly labeled plainly as "a bad bill"  could prompt bad actors to build look-alike websites meant to mirror porn sites as a means of extracting personal information from unknowing users who try to submit their ID or other private documents to verify their age.

She also questioned the merit of Nebraska restricting access to adult content to teens under 18 when the state's age of majority is 19 and the age of consent is 16.

"Unfortunately, young people can have sex with adults at 16 and 17 (in Nebraska)," Blood said. "So we're allowing them to have intercourse, but disallowing them  and I don't think either is right, but I'm just saying that I think it is problematic."

Murman struggled at times to answer questions about the functionality of the bill, which closely mirrors laws passed in eight other states over the past two years after Louisiana in 2022 became the first state to require porn sites to verify the age of users.

The bill doesn't tab a state agency to monitor compliance, instead allowing individuals to file civil lawsuits against adult websites that allow access to minors.

Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh questioned how a website would defend itself in court against such a claim if they aren't allowed to retain user age verification records under the law.

"Well, the proof would be if a minor did get access to the website without  if the website allowed the minor access without any kind of verification," Murman said.

"But if the minor went through the verification and somehow tricked the verification platform into thinking they were 18 or older  used their parent's ID, something  and they got access to the website and then they told their parents, 'Oh, they didn't check my ID,' and then the parents sue and the platform has no way to verify ... their ID was checked," Cavanaugh said. "So how can the company then defend itself against that lawsuit?"

"Well," Murman said, "if the minor used a fake ID, then the parents would not have a case."

"But there's no proof," Cavanaugh said. "There's no evidence if none of this information is kept."

If Murman's bill is made law, Nebraska would be the latest state to follow Louisiana's lead in requiring porn sites to verify users age.

Arkansas, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, Texas, Utah and Virginia have enacted similar laws. And lawmakers in Kansas advanced nearly identical legislation this week, though it hasn't yet been sent to the desk of Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat.

In Nebraska, Murman's bill must get second- and third-round approval from lawmakers before it would head to Gov. Jim Pillen's desk.

The Legislature's first-round approval of the measure Wednesday came on Day 51 of this year's 60-day legislative session.

"It has resulted in these companies pulling out of these states, which sounds great," said Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha. "You're like, 'Oh, well, the smut peddlers are gone.' But the problem with freedom of speech (and) expression is that we have to protect everyone's right to speak and to express themselves  even the ones we don't like.

"So putting up regulations that act effectively as a ban is problematic."

Murman disagrees.

"The Pornhub has actually pulled out, I think I'm correct in saying, it's pulled out of seven states now that have passed this bill," he said. "So, apparently, it's working."

Top Journal Star photos for March 2024
A Nebraska lawmaker who is already under investigation for workplace harassment over comments he made on the floor of the Legislature last week faced new allegations of inappropriate remarks Tuesday night.

Sen. Steve Halloran  who has dismissed calls for his resignation but could be censured after he invoked other lawmakers' names while reading a graphic description of a rape during floor debate last week  was accused Tuesday of privately joking to colleagues about Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh using pornography.

Cavanaugh accused the Hastings lawmaker of "disparaging" her to fellow senators amid debate Tuesday night over a bill (LB1092) that would require porn websites to verify the age of online users.

The accusation came just over a week after Halloran used the last name of Sens. Machaela and John Cavanaugh, as well as Sen. George Dungan, as he read a graphic book passage describing a brutal rape amid debate over a bill (LB441) that would have enacted criminal penalties for anyone who provides obscene materials to minors.

"The same people that asked me to perform a sex act to them on the microphone are talking about me watching porn," Machaela Cavanaugh said Tuesday night. "I don't appreciate it. I'm tired of being bullied. And I'm tired of you all not standing up for me and not standing up for women."

"I'm tired of being victimized," she said, later adding: "And I am tired of the bully that Steve Halloran has become in the body  and that you all have let him become. I'm tired of the women who haven't stood up and I'm tired of the men who haven't stood up."

Omaha Sen. Megan Hunt later accused Halloran of asking another lawmaker if Halloran would have to go "commando" after the senator had challenged him to wear a kilt amid a legislative hearing earlier this year.

The new accusations come as Halloran nears a public hearing Thursday on the legislative resolution that Machaela Cavanaugh introduced last week formally accusing the Hastings lawmaker of sexual harassment and seeking to censure Halloran over his prior remarks.

Halloran, in brief remarks to the Journal Star following Tuesday's debate, pointed to Thursday's upcoming hearing and said Machaela Cavanaugh "is very sensitive and I understand that," offering no further comment on the Omaha senator's latest accusation.

Two lawmakers  Hunt and conservative Sen. Julie Slama of Dunbar  have called for Halloran to resign on the floor of the Legislature, and he faced further scolding Tuesday night in the wake of his latest alleged comments.

Minutes after his sisters impassioned speech, John Cavanaugh called Hallorans latest remarks a further demonstration of his poor judgment and echoed his sisters concerns over many lawmakers unwillingness to confront or condemn Halloran, a conservative who will be term-limited this year.

Theres not enough members of this body taking issue with what is transpiring here, he said, lamenting the low-brow conversation, personal attacks and gutter talk that has reared its head in the Capitol.

I know that, at your core, most of you dont want it to continue, he added. But the problem is when you dont call out this bullying conduct, it continues. Its as simple as that. Its as simple as standing up and saying, I disagree. Saying, I think thats inappropriate. This is not what were here for. You shouldnt be doing that. Were better than that.

Dungan, too, called on his colleagues  especially the men in here  to do better.

We need to hold ourselves to a higher standard, he said.

Tuesdays discourse marked the latest in a series of interruptions to lawmaking prompted by Halloran, who became the subject of national news stories for his widely condemned remarks last week, which prompted fierce backlash on the legislative floor, on social media and in the hallways of the Capitol.

The Legislature's Executive Board will hear testimony from invited speakers only during the public hearing on Sens. Machaela Cavanaugh and Julie Slama's resolution to censure Halloran, scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. Thursday.

The body adjourned Tuesday night without voting on LB1092 but is set to resume debate on the proposal Wednesday morning.

PHOTOS: Sandhill cranes descend on Central Nebraska Nebraska's Platte River Valley: A critical stopover for cranes during migration The Platte River Valley in Nebraska hosts up to 90% of the world's sandhill crane population during migration season, with an estimated 650,00 Cranes in Central Nebraska Matt Urbansk, Saunders Conservation Fellow at the Crane Trust, right, photographs guests walking to a Platte River observation blind around 5: Capturing images Grace O'Dwyer, 5, her parents Christian and Lilla, and brothers Paul and James of Denver had their first sandhill crane season experience Marc Cranes in Central Nebraska Among the Crane Trust's staff and volunteer blind tour leaders is Matt Urbansk, the Saunders Conservation Fellow at the Trust, who watches cra Cranes in Central Nebraska As daylight faded to dusk March 1, sandhill cranes in silhouette lowered their legs and spread their wings to float down to overnight roosts o Cranes in Central Nebraska At dusk, sandhill cranes start flying to the Platte River  in this case at the Crane Trust near Alda  from nearby grasslands and harvested c Cranes in Central Nebraska Record numbers of sandhill cranes arrived early this year, according to estimates based on aerial surveys taken by the Crane Trust Science Tea Bison in the fog A lone bison ambled through a Crane Trust pasture near the headquarters complex southeast of the Alda I-80 exit on a foggy March 1 morning. Ot Cranes in Central Nebraska Sandhill cranes, ducks, geese and people in Crane Trust observation blinds along the Platte River woke up to dense fog March 1. That made cran Cranes in Central Nebraska Sandhill cranes, ducks, geese and people in Crane Trust observation blinds along the Platte River woke up to dense fog March 1. That made cran Cranes in Central Nebraska Grace O'Dwyer, 5, her parents Christian and Lilla, and brothers Paul and James of Denver had their first sandhill crane season experience Marc Bison in the fog A lone bison ambled through a Crane Trust pasture near the headquarters complex southeast of the Alda I-80 exit on a foggy March 1 morning. Ot
The Latest on the ship crash that collapsed the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore (all times local):

The cargo ship that caused the Baltimore bridge collapse was carrying hazardous materials, the National Transportation Safety Board said.

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said there are 56 containers aboard containing hazardous materials, including corrosives, flammables and lithium ion batteries. She said some containers were breached and a sheen was identified in the water that will be dealt with by authorities. She said the voyage data recorder has been recovered.

Homendy said the investigation could take 12 to 24 months but that the NTSB will not hesitate to issue urgent safety recommendations during that time. She said a preliminary report should be released in two to four weeks.

Its a massive undertaking for an investigation, Homendy said. "Its a very tragic event.

Currently:

 Cargo ship underwent engine maintenance before it crashed into the Baltimore bridge

 What we know about the Baltimore bridge collapse

 Central American and Mexican families mourn the missing

 What's it like to survive a bridge collapse? Past survivors tell

 Ships carrying cars and heavy equipment must find a new harbor

 A list of major US bridge collapses caused by ships and barges

 Find more of APs coverage at https://apnews.com

More of the latest:

AUTHORITIES IDENTIFY THE TWO BODIES RECOVERED AT SITE OF BRIDGE COLLAPSE

Authorities have released the identities of the two people recovered from the water Wednesday morning at the site of the Baltimore bridge collapse.

Maryland State Police Superintendent Col. Roland L. Butler said 35-year-old Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes and 26-year-old Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera were recovered from a red pickup truck submerged in about 25 feet (7.62 meters) of water near the bridges middle span.

Jesus Campos, who has worked on the bridge for Brawner Builders and knows members of the construction crew who died, said he was told they were on a break and some were sitting in their trucks to warm up when the bridge collapsed.

Butler said it was no longer safe for divers to continue operations in the area.

We have exhausted all search efforts in the areas around this wreckage, and based on sonar scans, we firmly believe that the vehicles are encased in the superstructure and concrete, Butler said.

SHIP WAS UNDERGOING ENGINE MAINTENANCE BEFORE IT CRASHED INTO BRIDGE, COAST GUARD SAYS

The ship that crashed into a bridge in Baltimore was undergoing routine engine maintenance in the port beforehand, the Coast Guard said.

U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath said at a news conference on Wednesday that authorities had been informed that the ship was going to undergo routine engine maintenance before it lost power. But he said authorities were not informed of any problems.

TWO BODIES HAVE BEEN RECOVERED AT SITE OF BRIDGE COLLAPSE, AUTHORITES SAY

The bodies of two people have been recovered from the site of the Baltimore bridge that collapsed into a river early Tuesday when a ship crashed into it, said Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent for Maryland State Police.

Butler said Wednesday that a 35-year-old and a 26-year-old were recovered from a red pickup truck in the Patapsco River near the mid-span of the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge.

The six construction workers who were missing and presumed dead were from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, Butler said.

Gov. Wes Moore told the families of the victims in Spanish, Estamos contigo, ahora y siempre which means, We are with you, now and always.

MARYLAND GOVERNOR TAKES A CLOSER LOOK AT DAMAGE IN BALTIMORE

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore is taking a closer look at the aftermath of the bridge collapse in Baltimore.

Moore boarded a Coast Guard ship with federal and local officials Wednesday to better understand the path the ship that caused the collapse took and how the crash happened, the governors office said. His office said his goal was to support the Coast Guard and other federal partners, thank first responders, and learn more about what happened.

BROTHER DESCRIBES MISSING CONSTRUCTION WORKER AS ALWAYS HAPPY

One of the construction workers presumed dead in Baltimore was a 38-year-old father of two who dreamed of someday returning to his native Honduras, his brother says.

Carlos Suazo says his brother, Maynor Suazo, had been in the United States for 18 years but always dreamed of, in his old age, retiring peacefully in Honduras. He describes him as the beloved youngest sibling among four girls and four boys.

He was someone who was always happy, was always thinking about the future. He was a visionary, Carlos Suazo says.

He last spoke to his brother Sunday, when they had lunch to discuss planning for a family birthday party.

He says the family hasnt lost hope his brother will be found alive.

BUTTIGIEG URGES BIPARTISAN SUPPORT FOR BALTIMORE FUNDING

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Wednesday at a White House news briefing that its too soon to say if regulations would be waived to rebuild the bridge and reopen the port.

But he said President Joe Biden has said the federal government should tear down any barriers, bureaucratic as well as financial that could affect the timeline of any rebuild.

Buttigieg also had a message for Republicans in Congress who might oppose having the federal government pay for the effort. Infrastructure should be a bipartisan issue, he said.

Today this is happening in Baltimore, tomorrow it could be their districts, he said. We really need to stand together, red blue and purple, to get these things done.

BUTTIGIEG OFFERS NO TIMELINE FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT, PORT REOPENING

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says its too soon to say how long it will take to reopen the Port of Baltimore or replace the destroyed bridge.

Buttigieg noted at a White House news briefing Wednesday that the bridge took five years to construct.

That does not necessarily mean it will take five years to replace, he said.

Coast Guard Vice Adm. Peter Gautier says hazardous materials aboard the damaged ship pose no threat to public safety.

Gautier said at the briefing that the ship is holding over 1.5 million gallons of fuel, and that more than 50 of the cargo containers on board contain hazardous material. But he says that the ship is stable and that authorities have determined there is no safety risk.

There is no threat to the public, he says.

BUTTIGIEG CITES 4 TRANSPORTATION FOCUSES

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says the Biden administration is focused on four areas related to transportation as the investigation continues in Baltimore.

Speaking at a White House news briefing Wednesday, Buttigieg said officials are focused on reopening the port, dealing with supply chain issues, rebuilding the bridge and addressing surface transportation.

Buttigieg said he will meet with shipping and supply chain officials Thursday.

We are going to help to get it open as soon as possible, he said.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre says President Joe Biden has instructed his team to move heaven and earth to aid in recovery and rebuilding.

SINGAPORE PLANS ITS OWN INVESTIGATION

Officials in Singapore say they will conduct their own investigation into the bridge collapse, in addition to supporting U.S. authorities.

The ship that struck the bridge, the Dali, was traveling under a Singaporean flag. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore said Wednesday it was working with the ships management company, Synergy Marine Group, to get information to the U.S. Coast Guard for its investigation.

The agency also said Singapores Transport Safety Investigation Bureau will independently investigate, not to determine liability, but to identify lessons for the future.

SHIP'S FUEL HEATER PRESSURE GAUGES HAD PROBLEM IN 2023

A 2023 inspection of the ship in a Chilean port turned up a problem with the fuel heaters pressure gauges, but it was corrected before the ship left the port, the Maritime Authority of the Chilean Navy says.

Previous reports had indicated the June inspection of the Dali in Chile identified a problem with the ships propulsion and auxiliary machinery, according to the shipping information website Equasis, but the records didnt elaborate.

The Chilean Navy said in a statement Wednesday that the ship had been inspected in the port of San Antonio on June 27, 2023, and that the pressure gauges of the fuel heaters were detected to be illegible.

The problem was corrected the same day, and the ship was able to depart, the Chilean Navy says.

The Dali was most recently inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard in New York in September 2023, and no deficiencies were detected, according to Equasis.

MEXICAN PRESIDENT HIGHLIGHTS CONTRIBUTIONS OF MIGRANT WORKERS

The president of Mexico says three Mexicans were among the workers on the bridge when it collapsed.

Two of the Mexican workers are missing. The third was injured and rescued.

He is safe now, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Wednesday.

Lopez Obrador also highlighted the contributions migrant workers make to the U.S. economy.

This demonstrates that migrants go out and do risky jobs at midnight, and for this reason they do not deserve to be treated as they are by certain insensitive, irresponsible politicians in the United States, he said.
RACINE  The co-chair of President Joe Bidens reelection campaign was at the Corinne Reid Owens Transit Center on Tuesday to highlight some of the administrations economic development investments that are making a local impact.

The stop at the transit center on State Street was one of seven Mitch Landrieu was scheduled to make during a two-day tour of Wisconsin.

Biden and former President Donald Trump are deadlocked in Wisconsin among registered voters, according to a Marquette Law School poll released in February, although the poll was taken before GOP candidate Nikki Haley dropped out of the race.

The poll, conducted Jan. 24-31, found both Trump and Biden receiving support from 49% of registered voters, with 2% saying they had not yet decided. Among a smaller group of respondents considered likely voters, Trump received 50% of support and Biden 49%.

The results mark a slight shift from Marquettes November poll, which found Biden holding 50% support among both registered and likely Wisconsin voters to Trumps 48%, well within that polls margin of error.

While in Racine, Landrieu toured one of the citys electric buses, which were purchased using federal grant money.

We need clean sources of energy, he said, and for the folks that are riding on public transit, which is what gets most working-class folks to and from work, we need buses that are healthy.

Landrieu also spoke with representatives of Racines Youth Employment Program, which provides teens and young adults summer employment opportunities in city departments.

The city launched the program using American Rescue Plan Act funding.

Mayor Cory Mason described the ARPA funds as transformational.

It really saved the city in the midst of COVID, he said. And its giving us the resources to not only come out of that recovery, but give people more economic security and access to opportunities and jobs.

Landrieu arrived in Racine after vising Milwaukee and continued his tour in Madison on Tuesday afternoon. He was scheduled to visit La Crosse and Wausau on Wednesday.
1. Yes. The area is still in a drought, and long-range forecasts are predicting a hot, dry summer .

2. Yes. Despite modest rainfall, area lake levels are far below normal. Restrictions are likely.

3. No. Frequent rainfall has helped this spring. Unless summer is unusually dry, it should be OK.

4. No. The area was very hot last summer, but water restrictions never reached Stage 3.

5. Unsure. Its hard to say without seeing how much rain the area gets in April and May.

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You are here: Business

An employee assembles multi-wire sawing equipment at a workshop of Yantai Likai Numerical Control Technology Co., Ltd. in Yantai, east China's Shandong Province, Dec. 26, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Profits of China's major industrial firms increased 10.2 percent year on year in the first two months of the year, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Wednesday.

The figure reversed a 2.3 percent decline registered in 2023, the NBS said.

Industrial firms with an annual main business revenue of at least 20 million yuan (about 2.82 million U.S. dollars) saw their combined profits reach 914.06 billion yuan during the period.

Among the 41 industrial categories monitored by the bureau, 29 recorded profit growth.

The profits of the equipment manufacturing sector continued to increase rapidly in the January-February period.

The combined profits of the sector gained 28.9 percent year on year, 24.8 percentage points higher than the growth rate registered in the previous year.

The surge contributed 6.7 percentage points to the country's overall growth in industrial profits, making equipment manufacturing sector the largest contributor, said the NBS.

Profits for the consumer goods manufacturing industry recorded relatively fast growth in the first two months of the year, marked by an increase in demand from both home and abroad.

During the period, the industry's profits increased 12.9 percent year on year, reversing the 1.1 percent decrease registered last year.

The combined operating revenue of major industrial enterprises increased by 4.5 percent year on year, 3.4 percentage points higher than the annual revenue growth of the previous year, said the NBS.
KEARNEY  Kearney Police Department will join law enforcement agencies nationwide from April 1-9 to remind drivers about the dangers and consequences of texting and distracted driving.

This annual campaign is part of the U.S. Department of Transportations National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA) National U-Drive. U-Text. U-Pay. high-visibility enforcement effort.

Kearney Police Department and NHTSA urge drivers to put their phones away when behind the wheel. If you need to text, pull over and do not drive while doing so. If you are the driver, follow these steps for a safe driving experience:

If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location. Once you are safely off the road and parked, it is safe to text.

Ask your passenger to be your designated texter. Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.

Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.

Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phones Do Not Disturb feature, or put your phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.

Texting while driving is dangerous and illegal. No text or post is worth ruining someones day or taking a life. Remember: U-Drive. U-Text. U-Pay.

Kearney Police Departments participation in this campaign is funded through a grant from the Nebraska Department of Highway Safety.
Born in Los Angeles, Ashley Judd was raised in Kentucky and comes from a famous music family. Her mother was Naomi Judd, and she is the half-sister of Wynonna Judd. She is best known for her 3-decade acting career, which led her to be approached by Youth AIDS, asking her to become a spokesperson.

Her travels in the most impoverished and gender unequal countries as well as her own experience as a child raped by two adult family members have formed her social goals. Believing that worldwide poverty and disease will not end until women have control over their own bodies and their own fertility, Judd has stated, A womans body is not the property of any church, state, or other human being.

Working for Youth AIDS, Judd has seen the effect of no bodily autonomy for females. Returning from Democratic Republic of Congo, Judd said she felt grief and mourned. The average female in Democratic Republic of Congo has 6.3 children, the highest fertility rate in the world, and many of the girls and women die from preventable diseases. Visiting brothels in Mumbai where owners force their workers to have children, Judd came to understand how this use of womens bodies traps them in a cycle of poverty from which they cannot escape.

In 2005, Judd testified to a U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee about the importance of stopping cross-generational sex and sexual violence to protect young women from AIDS in developing countries. Judd is also known as being the first celebrity, after years of investigation by New York Times reporters Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, to go public with allegations of sexual misconduct against movie producer Harvey Weinstein. Her incredible bravery contributed to the start of the #MeToo movement, and paved the way for over 80 other actresses and employees to tell their own stories about Weinstein, who was found guilty of rape and sentenced to 39 years in prison from multiple court cases.
Audre Lorde was born Audrey Geraldine Lorde in New York City, the daughter of West Indian immigrants. Growing up, Lorde was legally blind and worked to live with a speech impediment. Seventeen was the first publication to publish her poetry, while she was still a high school student. Lorde stated that she thought entirely in poetry, reading and memorizing poems her entire life. When asked any question, she would reply using a poem from memory. Lorde said she began writing her own poems when she couldnt find poetry that had her answers.

After high school, Lorde attended Hunter College where she earned a bachelors degree, and obtained her masters in library science from Columbia University. She worked as a librarian in the New York public school district before teaching as a poet-in-residence at Tougaloo College. Lorde was an outspoken advocate for feminism and LGBTQ rights, and is noted for calling out the American feminist movement as racist. Lorde, a lesbian, argued that the only way in which women would find equality with men is if they first found equality among each other. Her book, "Sister Outsider," was a call for a more inclusive feminist movement.
One hundred years ago, a Viola correspondent noted in the Vernon County Censor of March 19, 1924, that, An organizer for the Ku Klux Klan has been in our midst the past few days in an effort to organize at this place. Yes, the KKK was active in Vernon County a century ago.

Henry Rogers, who ran a store on Viroquas Main Street, wrote a letter on March 21, 1924, to his daughter Alice, away at college, informing her that The Klux had a fiery cross on the Court House rock Monday. Now they bring around a card asking what my religion is, mothers, fathers.

You can learn more about this controversial organization and turbulent time period at our next free public history program. The program will be held on Wednesday, April 3, at 7 p.m., at the Vernon County Museum and History Center. The speaker for the evening will be Dr. Michael Jacobs, a Professor of History at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Baraboo campus. His topic is, The Ku Klux Klan in Vernon County and Western Wisconsin in the 1920s.

Dr. Jacobs earned his PhD in U.S. history at Marquette University in 2001, with a dissertation on the Catholic response to the Ku Klux Klan in the Midwest, 1920-1928. He researches and writes primarily on intolerance movements in the American Midwest. He served as a consultant on the PBS television series, History Detectives, and advises the Wisconsin Historical Society on Klan-related artifacts, papers, and photographs.

Dr. Jacobs describes his talk as follows: The Ku Klux Klan of the 1920s was not necessarily comprised of like-minded racial bigots. The organization differed from the more familiar domestic terrorists of the post Civil War and Civil Rights eras. Jazz Age Klansmen made greater efforts to resemble mainstream fraternal orders. While African Americans remained an object of derision, western Wisconsins Klan paid greater attention to Catholics, immigrants, and Prohibition violators. The Klan was active in Vernon County and included some of its most prominent citizens.

In early July of 1924, Klan meetings were held at Eckhart Park and at the county fairgrounds, both in Viroqua. In September, there was a KKK meeting in Dell. In early October, the Klan marched up and down Viroquas Main Street and burned a cross. A few weeks later, there was a KKK meeting in De Soto, and four crosses were burned on nearby hillsides. Meetings were also held in Valley and La Farge and Hillsboro.

The activities of the Klan around the state and the nation were much in the news in 1924. The La Farge Enterprise reprinted a long letter to the editor of the Capital Times written in December by a Klan representative in Madison. In the letter, the representative, Joseph Jones, plainly stated that the KKK stood for supremacy of the white race, a limitation of foreign immigration, and the Protestant church.

The KKK might have been trying to rebrand itself as a patriotic organization devoted to protecting the U.S. Constitution, but anyone who joined or attended a meeting or even just read the local paper knew that the Klan only supported white U.S.-born Protestants, and actively opposed anyone else. That anyone else included a lot of Vernon County residents.

From Italian Catholics in Genoa, to Norwegian immigrants in Westby, to non-white residents of Cheyenne Valley, to Bohemian Catholics in Hillsboro, many local people did not fit the Klans definition of American. And many local people were opposed to the KKK.

Lillian (Jussen) Proctor of Viroqua, a Catholic and the daughter of German immigrants, ran for Member of Assembly in 1924, in part on her stated opposition to the KKK and to all organizations founded on racial and religious prejudice. Her opponent, A.E. Smith of Viroqua, was a local leader of the Klan. Smith won the election. Come learn more about this difficult history at our April 3 program.
Hamas says UNSC resolution demanding Gaza truce shows Israel's "isolation"

Xinhua) 09:59, March 27, 2024

TEHRAN, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Head of the Hamas Political Bureau Ismail Haniyeh said on Tuesday that Israel's "unprecedented political isolation" was evident in the resolution adopted the day before by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, according to Iran's official news agency IRNA.

He made the remarks at a joint press conference with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian following their meeting in the Iranian capital Tehran earlier in the day.

"The recent UN Security Council resolution is indicative of Israel's unprecedented political isolation and the United States also no longer has the will and ability to impose its demand on the international community. These show the unparalleled resistance of the Islamic resistance and Palestinian people," Haniyeh said.

The Hamas leader stressed that despite heavy expenditures, Israel had failed to achieve its military objectives in Gaza and "is losing its political and international support."

The resolution won 14 votes in favor among the 15 members of the UNSC. The United States, which had previously vetoed three draft resolutions that would have called for or demanded a ceasefire in Gaza, abstained Monday, making it possible for the resolution to pass.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
A staff member explains the working principle of a meteorological observation instrument to students at the observation field of local meteorological bureau in Rongcheng City, east China's Shandong Province, March 22, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

China has released a report on the overall trend of meteorological progress worldwide, according to China Meteorological Administration (CMA).

The report, consisting of four sections and 13 chapters, closely tracks the major meteorological achievements of important international organizations and some countries in 2023, and compares and analyzes their development levels in key areas such as meteorological observation, forecast, services and climate governance.

The report recognizes China's significant contribution to the global meteorological development since it resumed its lawful seat in the World Meteorological Organization in 1972.

China's Fengyun meteorological satellites now serve 129 countries and regions around the world, and the CMA's satellite broadcasting system covers Asia and most parts of Africa and Europe, according to the report.

China has actively contributed to the Early Warnings For All Initiative launched by the United Nations. It has also achieved great progress in the formulation and revision of international rules, global data sharing, meteorological sci-tech cooperation and global meteorological governance.
Congressman Derrick Van Orden visited Campbell to celebrate $2 million in federal spending approved for a municipal water system in the town. The water system would help the town recover from PFAS contamination in private wells throughout French Island.

The $2 million comes from a federal appropriation request by Van Orden. The congressman sent the request to the House Committee on Appropriations in March 2023 and the spending bill was approved in November.

This isnt the most popular Republican position, and I dont really care, Van Orden said. Im incredibly proud to work with everybody here on the local, state and federal level to make sure we can help people be able to drink water out of their own faucet.

No municipal water system currently exists on French Island. About 1,600 private wells in the town of Campbell have been contaminated by PFAS, forcing 4,300 residents to consume bottled water for more than three years since the contaminants were found.

PFAS contamination seeped into French Islands water wells from firefighting foam used at the La Crosse Regional Airport for air crash events and exercises. Airfields were previously required to use the foam until May 2023 when Congress directed the Federal Aviation Administration to advise against the requirement.

The federal government mandated that PFAS be used on these airfields. Its the federal governments responsibility for cleaning it up, Van Orden said.

The town is looking to install an elevated storage tank as part of a municipal water system. With funding collected from various outlets, town leaders hope to begin seeking permits for construction in May.

Were trying to stack up finances from all over the best we can, said Campbell town supervisor Lee Donahue. Its an investment in the health and safety of these residents. Its going to be a lot of money, but were grateful for everything weve got so far.

To start a municipal water system, Campbell leaders have to submit plans to the DNR and Public Service Commission. These requests require EPA approval every step of the way. Donahue is hopeful that the town will break ground before the end of 2024.

In the past two years, Campbell has also secured $600,000 from the La Crosse County Board for a test well and $1.7 million from Congressional Direct Spending U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin secured for a municipal water system.

Although he operates on the federal level, Van Orden also encouraged the release of Wisconsins $125 million trust fund to combat PFAS contamination currently locked in the states Joint Finance Commission.

If theyre there, then they should be used, Van Orden said about the funds.

In the same appropriations bill for Campbells funding, Van Orden acquired another $2 million for PFAS water filtration equipment in Eau Claire.

A look inside the Genoa National Fish Hatchery
Six candidates are competing for three seats on the Sharon Village Board at the Tuesday, April 2 spring election in the 1,561-resident community.

On the ballot are incumbent trustees Marge Dreksler, Amanda Rose and Pamela Schutt, along with challengers Chuck Dorn and Douglas Koehler.

At 3:52 p.m. on Monday, March 25, the Lake Geneva Regional News was informed by Village of Sharon Clerk-Treasurer Dawn Redenius that Karen Greenlee is now a registered write-in candidate.

In advance of election day, candidates submitted answers to questions presented to them by the Lake Geneva Regional News. Below are their responses to those questions.

Email and phone attempts were made to contact Greenlee for the candidate questionnaire in advance of press deadlines. No response was received from Greenlee as of press time for this edition.

Incumbents

Name: Margaret Marge Dreksler

Age: You never ask a woman her age, but I am old enough to be retired.

Occupation: Previous career was in accounting for payroll, billing, account management and event organization.

Address: 101 E. School St., Sharon, WI 53585

Community Involvement: I have lived in Sharon for 37 years. Raised my four children here, active within the school fundraisers and afterschool activities. As far as the organizations, I had always attended the village board and committee meetings to be informed on what was happening in the Village. Board member, Sharon Historical Society. Program Manager, Sharon Main Street Association (2002). Helped to reorganized and reactivate the Sharon Chamber of Commerce, and for the past 2- years sat on the board as treasurer. Writer, editor and publisher of the Chamber Chat newsletter. Volunteered with installation of new park equipment at Goodland Park. Brigham Library Board member. Support nonprofit organizations with both monetary contributions and volunteer hours.

Previous elected experience: After my retirement, I had the chance to run for Village Board. I was elected in 2020, and have sat on the board for the past four years. At this time, I am also on the General Operations Committee, Public Utilities Committee and Library Committee.

Why do you want to be a member of the Sharon Village Board? To be involved within the Village, to make the hard choices which are needed to keep the Village moving forward. To prosper a better future for all involved, not just a few but for all the residents. Those on the Village Board are all residents of the Village and pay taxes to the Village, so whenever decisions need to be made that affect the residents, it also affects us. I want to continue for the betterment of the Village and keep it moving forward for everyone.

What are two of the biggest issues you are concerned about in the village? 1) Being able to keep and support all our first responders, our police department, fire department, and EMS. Just like many communities everywhere, there is a shortage of the younger generation to take on those occupations. Our Village is no different. Our police chief and our fire chief struggle with this every day. We need to think outside the box and come up with amicable solutions. 2) With the current state of the economy, my concern is for all small villages, not just Sharon. Larger cities and villages have a much larger tax base to draw from, in order to operate at a beneficial capacity for its residents. There may come a time where the Village may not have enough funds to continue moving forward for the betterment of all involved. I would hate to see that happen. But it is something we have to look at, and hope for the best. On a positive note, progress has been made over the past four years to not increase taxes for the village. The Board has worked with the same budget, by reducing spending in all departments and allocating funds to wherever they are needed most.

Anything else you want to add? There will always be some residents that dont agree with the decisions that the Board makes. As a resident, I can understand that. Over the 37 years that I have lived here, the Board made some decisions I did not agree with. Some of those decisions ended with a negative result for the Village, ones that the current Board has made some great strides to correct and move forward on. We need to keep moving forward with those corrective decisions and initiatives. I believe a lot of the residents would agree with that. I want residents to be able to voice their opinions, but I also want them to realize that whatever decision the Village Board makes, it is made for the betterment of all involved, not just a few.

Name: Amanda Rose

Age: 42

Occupation: Business Owner  Small Towne Market and The Hippie Homesteader

Address: 181 Prairie St, Sharon, WI 53585

Community Involvement: Volunteered to help with Victorian Christmas and Model A Day. Co-founder and board member of Small Towne Preservations, a 501(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of historic properties and the small-town way of life in Sharon.

Previous elected experience: Served one term as Village Trustee.

Why do you want to be a member of the Sharon Village Board? I love this place that I have chosen to call home, but I feel like there are some shortcomings that havent been addressed by our current administration. My first term has been very eye opening as to how the village is run and where the current boards priorities lie. I have been the lone dissenting voice asking how we are justifying increased spending, which leads to tax and fee increases.

What are two of the biggest issues you are concerned about in the village? Like many municipalities, our biggest issues are to fully fund and staff our police and fire departments. We have joined with surrounding communities to bolster our EMS department, but that is now dependent on a referendum passing this fall. If it fails, we do not have a backup plan. Secondly, we need more transparency and accountability for how our taxpayer dollars are being spent. If our wasteful spending was reined in, then we could direct more funding to projects that actually matter to the residents of Sharon.

Anything else you want to add? Sharon is a wonderful community, but many who I talk to feel like their voices arent being heard by the board. My job as a trustee is to represent those voices, make them feel heard, and make sure their tax dollars are spent wisely and responsibly. In my opinion, that is not currently being done.

Name: Pamela Schutt

Age: 56

Occupation: Mercy Health, Clinical with 25+ years of experience in this field.

Address: 149 Martin St., Sharon, WI 53585

Community Involvement: I was a member of the Sharon Fire and Rescue squad for 20 years as an Advanced EMT, and I was the Secretary for eight years. I have been an American Legion Auxillary member for approximately four years. I am also currently a Sharon Lions Club member for the last two years and am the current Secretary for them. I was the Sharon Municipal Court Clerk for five years. I was the committee chairman, along with a few other very helpful people, that raised $118,000 through fundraisers and generous donations to get all new park playground equipment to replace the equipment that was busted and a huge safety hazzard. This took a few years and a lot of hard work.

Previous elected experience: I have served as an elected official for the Village of Sharon as a trustee for 12 years.

Why do you want to be a member of the Sharon Village Board? I want to continue to do good things for our community and help keep our taxes down.

What are two of the biggest issues you are concerned about in the village? 1) Keeping a police department and the Fire and Rescue squad running in the Village. It is getting harder and harder these days to find people willing to do this and it is sometimes a thankless job. 2) I am concerned about the negativity against the positive strides the Village Board has made, not limited to but including serious strides with the industrial park development, new houses being built in the Village, etc.

Anything else you want to add? I have lived in Sharon for 38 years and I pay taxes here. No one person agrees with every decision all of the time, but believe me when I say I am proud to be a part of the Village of Sharon and I have the Village residents best interests in my heart.

Challengers

Name: Chuck Dorn

Age: Younger than Biden and Trump.

Occupation: Semi-retired business owner.

Community Involvement: Chamber of Commerce. Sharon Main Street contributor.

Previous elected experience: Planning Commission, Citizens Rep, Trustee, Village President.

Why do you want to be a member of the Sharon Village Board? 1) To give back to the community; 2) To help make better decisions.

What are two of the biggest issues you are concerned about in the village? 1) Fiscal management; 2) Preparation (due diligence); 3) Planning. I believe that everyone should contribute to their community by volunteering time, talents or, sometimes, monetary assistance. To help the community succeed, public service is a way for me to give back to the Village that I have lived in for more than 40 years. I believe that I can make a positive contribution to the Village Board in making decisions based on research and facts and not on opinion. Everyone knows there is never enough money whether in government or a household, but spending money unwisely does not help the situation. As an example, the Village Board passed the 2024 budget around mid-December. In January, the Board purchased another unbudgeted, unneeded $60,000 pickup truck. One month later, the Board approved a new EMS contract. Inasmuch as we lack the funds to fulfill our obligations under the contract, the Board approved a referendum held later this year to pay for the contract obligation. Ironically, the amount paid for the pickup truck and the amount needed for the EMS contract balance are remarkably similar. I can assist the Board in eliminating these reactionary decisions in the future and move to be better stewards of the taxpayers money.

Anything else you want to add? I ask that all residents of Village of Sharon consider voting for me and, if elected, I will work hard to help make positive decisions that will move Sharon forward into the future.

Name: Douglas Koehler

Age: 69

Occupation: Owner of Koehler Home Repair, LLC

Address: 170 Baldwin St., Sharon, WI 53585

Community Involvement: Board member, Small Towne Preservations.

Previous elected experience: I have no previous experience. I was appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Why do you want to be a member of the Sharon Village Board? We have some serious problems in Sharon and I am a serious person who can help.

What are two of the biggest issues you are concerned about in the village? Uncontrolled village spending and lack of helping the downtown business owners.

Anything else you want to add?

Registered write-in challenger

Name: Karen Greenlee

IN 42 PHOTOS: 2023 Independence Day parade in Sharon Sharon Parade 4-H.JPG Sharon Parade 1923 Pircsch.JPG Sharon Parade 1947 IH McCormick Farmall MD Walt Getka Burlington.JPG Sharon Parade 1948 IH.JPG Sharon Parade 1952 IH McCormick Farmall Super C Roberts Family Walworth.JPG Sharon Parade 1953 Case DC Michael G. Damak Sharon.JPG Sharon Parade 1953 IH Farmall Super 8 Vince Getka Sharon.JPG Sharon Parade Allis Chalmers 2.JPG Sharon Parade Allis Chalmers.JPG Sharon Parade Camp Timber-lee.JPG Sharon Parade Capron Lions Chicken BBQ.JPG Sharon Parade Case Tractor.JPG Sharon Parade Coffee Cup Business of the Year.JPG Sharon Parade cow.JPG Sharon Parade Dodge Brothers.JPG Sharon Parade Dragon 2.JPG Sharon Parade Dragon.JPG Sharon Parade Evergreen Septic.JPG SHaron Parade FD Water Spray 2.JPG Sharon Parade FD Water Spray.JPG Sharon Parade Fire Apparatus.JPG Sharon Parade Girl Waving 2.JPG Sharon Parade Girl Waving.JPG SHaron Parade Hannah & Cayden White.JPG Sharon Parade Harvard Milk Days Float.JPG Sharon Parade IH Dick Stoxen Harvard.JPG Sharon Parade IH McCormick W9 Vince & Jean Getka of Sharon.JPG Sharon Parade Legion Better.JPG Sharon Parade McCormick-Deering F20 Harvard.JPG Sharon Parade Myrt's Ice Cream Shoppe.JPG Sharon Parade Officer Matt Diderich.JPG Sharon Parade patriotic 1776 wagon.JPG Sharon Parade Rock-Ford Model A Club.JPG Sharon Parade Rockford Speedway.JPG Sharon Parade Sharon FD.JPG Sharon Parade Sharon Lions Club float.JPG SHaron Parade Tractors on Parade.JPG Sharon Parade Tyler August.JPG Sharon Parade veterans march.JPG Sharon Parade veterans.JPG Sharon Parade vintage John Deere.JPG FAIREST OF THE FAIR
You are here: China

China's health authorities have issued a circular calling on hospitals to establish a rapid response mechanism for addressing patient complaints, amid efforts to foster amicable interactions between doctors and patients.

According to the circular co-issued by the general office of the National Health Commission, health institutions have been instructed to promptly address the most pressing difficulties and concerns expressed by patients.

The aim is to ensure that patient complaints are handled in a procedure-based manner, with a focus on providing feedback and driving improvements in health services.

The circular highlights the need to establish a three-tiered complaint handling mechanism at various levels within hospitals. This includes the hospital itself, its dedicated complaint management body, and individual hospital departments.
The United Nations Security Council is demanding an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Some members are concerned that a famine might have begun.

The territorys civilians are reportedly eating a wild plant called Khobiza because they lack other food to eat. The plant is an herb known as mallow.

The Palestinian area has faced five months of war following the October attack on Israel by its Hamas rulers. Israeli officials say the terrorist group killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages.

Israel responded to the attack by launching air strikes and shelling in Gaza. Hamas health officials in Gaza say 32,000 Palestinians have died in the conflict. It is the worst conflict between Israel and Hamas.

All our lives -- even through (previous) wars -- we have not eaten Khobiza, said a Palestinian woman named Maryam Al-Attar.

She said, My daughters tell me, 'We want to eat bread, mother.' My heart breaks for them.

Al-Attar continued, I can't find a piece of bread for them. I go and gather some Khobiza. We have found Khobiza for now, but in the future, where will we get it from? Khobiza will run out. Where do we turn?

The war is continuing during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Millions of Muslims around the world enjoy big meals after sunset with their families and watch special television shows.

We have been consumed by hunger. We have nothing to eat. We crave vegetables, fish, and meat. We fast with empty stomachs. We can no longer fast. We are dizzy from hunger, said Umm Mohamed. She said there was nothing to help the body deal with fasting during Ramadan.

The Integrated Food-Security Phase Classification (IPC) is a website that examines food and security. It says famine is likely to begin by May in northern Gaza. A severe lack of food could spread across the rest of the area by July.

Reports say that Khobiza will only provide temporary help. The aid situation for Gaza is also not clear. Negotiators are working on the terms of a ceasefire and the release of hostages.

Recently, an Israeli government spokesperson said Israel will stop working with the U.N. Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in the Gaza strip. It is the largest aid group in Gaza. Israel says the aid agency is causing the conflict to go on longer.

Israel in January accused 12 of UNRWAs 13,000 workers in Gaza of taking part in the October 7 attack. That led several donor countries to stop giving financial support to the group.

UNRWA dismissed some of its workers. It said it acted in order to protect the agencys ability to provide aid in Gaza. And an independent internal U.N. investigation was launched.

Im Gregory Stachel.

Mahmoud Issa reported this story for Reuters. Gregory Stachel adapted it for VOA Learning English.

___________________________________________________

Words in This Story

famine  n. a situation in which many people do not have enough food to eat

respond  v. to do something as a reaction to something that has happened or been done

consumed  adj. to take all of a person's attention, energy, or time

crave  v. to have a very strong desire for (something)

dizzy  adj. feeling that you are turning around in circles and are going to fall although you are standing still
Editor's note: This story is one of the winning entries from the "Teach Us about Ukraine" writing contest sponsored by VOA Learning English and GoGlobal.

My name is Larisa Dashevska, and I have been teaching English for 25 years in Kherson, Ukraine.

Ukraine has had a complex history and faced many challenges. But nothing could have prepared Ukrainians for the ordeal of the Russian occupation of Kherson.

As a resident of Kherson, I lived through the occupation and witnessed the effect of war on our city, our people, and our way of life.

The arrival of Russian forces in Kherson marked the beginning of a time of uncertainty and danger. There were daily explosions. The once-familiar streets were now unrecognizable, with craters and debris marring the landscape. The sounds of shelling and gunfire created a miserable backdrop to our daily lives.

Among the residents of Kherson, there were a lot of people who refused to accept the occupation. In spring 2022 they gathered in groups and took to the streets, waving Ukrainian flags and chanting slogans of freedom - Kherson is Ukraine!". Despite the fear, brave people knew they had to stand up for their homeland.

At the beginning of the resistance against the enemy army, I remembered a very brave act of a local resident. The man was filmed climbing directly onto a Russian tank and waving the Ukrainian flag.

But as the days passed, the situation grew more dangerous. The explosions became more frequent, and the fighting intensified. The occupiers started to prohibit demonstrations and used weapons to break them up.

As a teacher, I had to help my students deal with the trauma they were experiencing. Our schools, places of learning and personal growth, were now places of uncertainty and fear.

I was a teacher of 1011-year-old students with inclusive education and special needs. They needed my presence in their lives. During that period, we had online lessons every day and I made efforts to help them relax, feel less stress, and maintain a positive attitude despite the circumstances. I did this by creating a positive learning environment.

In spring 2022 our school year was one month shorter to avoid negative consequences. Also, the occupiers prohibited us from using modern platforms for studying and blocked the internet.

Each encounter with Russian soldiers patrolling our streets was filled with tension and anxiety. Their presence reminded us not only of the loss of freedom but also the stories of brutality throughout the city. It changed our way of life and introduced an element of fear that was impossible to escape.

As people saw Russian soldiers standing on every street corner and holding their guns, they tried to avoid such meetings. Soldiers looked at locals coldly and as if they owned the city.

Ukrainian banks ceased to function, leaving us with no access to our savings or financial resources. Ukrainian currency became worthless, and residents could not obtain basic needs. Once-thriving businesses shuttered, and people lost jobs.

Every visit to the market was a real challenge. Market stalls were filled with Russian goods, and the vendors whispered, as if afraid to say too much. People tried to quickly buy what they needed and hurried home.

Locals knew they were powerless against the invaders, but the occupiers couldnt break their spirit. Lots of citizens had the hope that one day, they would be free from the oppression of the Russian invaders.

During the occupation, people could not use modern mobile phones, because the occupiers could stop a person at any moment and start checking the contents and photos on the phone. If they found a photo of a person with national symbols or a Ukrainian embroidery, there were big problems. People were taken for questioning.

I found an old push-button telephone from my parents and used it throughout the occupation. It was not so scary, because there was no Internet and no social networks, photos and other unnecessary material for the invaders.

The Russian occupation of Kherson was, without a doubt, the darkest period in my life. But it was also a time that revealed the strength of the Ukrainian people. I watched neighbors come together to support one another and share whatever resources they had, whether it was food, warmth, or words of encouragement.

In occupied Kherson, many residents found themselves hiding in shelters to stay safe from the fighting and explosions.

They sat together, shared bread and simple food, surfed the Net and read the latest news of the occupied city and explosions. Despite the hardships they faced, locals knew they were not alone.

Once, there was a knock on the door of our building shelter. About 20 people were inside. Our hearts pounded with fear. Everyone was silent that moment. Soldiers checked shelters and tried to find partisans. Nobody answered and so they left without entering. We breathed with relief.

There is one moment I will always remember. It happened just after the deoccupation of the city. When the Russian invaders left our city, they blew up all important public utilities. Local residents were left without electricity and water for more than three weeks.

The people lived without all modern conveniences, but they were too happy to be rid of the enemy and their rule. Since no one had electricity in the city, some people had generators at home. My neighbor also had a generator and helped people all over the neighborhood charge their mobile phones and power banks. With charged phones, people could call their relatives and at least say a few words about their lives. We could only charge our phones a little once a day. Such nice people saved our lives.

As a teacher, I was determined to keep the story alive, even in the darkest of times, for the sake of my students and my country.

I'm Gena Bennett. And I'm Andrew Smith.

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About the teacher

Larisa Dashevska was born in Kherson, Ukraine. After completing secondary school, she entered Kherson State University and became a teacher of English. She worked 12 years at Kherson State agrarian and economic University. Later she started to work as an English teacher at Kherson comprehensive educational complex. Larisa finds her work rewarding and important.

__________________________________________________
BALTIMORE  A cargo ship lost power and rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, destroying the span in a matter of seconds and plunging it into the river in a terrifying collapse that could disrupt a vital shipping port for months. Six people were missing and presumed dead, and the search for them was suspended until the next day.

The ships crew issued a mayday call moments before the crash took down the Francis Scott Key Bridge, enabling authorities to limit vehicle traffic on the span, Marylands governor said.

The ship struck one of the bridges supports, causing the structure to collapse like a toy. A section of the span came to rest on the bow of the vessel, which caught fire.

With the ship barreling toward the bridge at a very, very rapid speed, authorities had just enough time to stop cars from coming over the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said.

These people are heroes, Moore said. They saved lives last night.

In the evening, Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent for Maryland State Police, announced that the search and rescue mission was transitioning to one of search and recovery. He also said the search was being put on pause and divers would return to the site at 6 a.m. Wednesday, when challenging overnight conditions are expected to improve.

The crash happened in the middle of the night, long before the busy morning commute on the bridge that stretches 1.6 miles and was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

The six people presumed dead were part of a construction crew filling potholes on the bridge, said Paul Wiedefeld, the state's transportation secretary.

A senior executive at the company that employed the workers said Tuesday afternoon that they were presumed dead, given the waters depth and the length of time since the crash.

Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, said the crew was working in the middle of the bridge when it came down. No bodies have been recovered, and rescuers continued the search into the late afternoon.

This was so completely unforeseen, Pritzker said. We dont know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers."

A list of major US bridge collapses caused by ships and barges A world shipping association says there were at least 35 major bridge collapses worldwide from 1960 to 2015 due to ship or barge collision with a total of more than 340 killed. Its 2018 report says 18 of the collapses happened in the United States. Among the more notable collapses in the U.S. was that of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge spanning Florida's Tampa Bay. A sudden, blinding squall knocked out a freighter's radar in 1980. The ship sheared off a bridge support. A long section of concrete roadway fell to the water during the morning rush hour. Thirty-five people died.

Jesus Campos, who has worked on the bridge for Brawner Builders and knows members of the crew, said he was told they were on a break and some were sitting in their trucks when the bridge went down.

I know that a month ago, I was there, and I know what it feels like when the trailers pass, Campos said. Imagine knowing that is falling. It is so hard. One would not know what to do.

Rescuers pulled two people out of the water. One person was treated at a hospital and discharged hours later. Multiple vehicles also went into the river, although authorities did not believe anyone was inside.

It looked like something out of an action movie, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said, calling it an unthinkable tragedy."

A police dispatcher put out a call just before the collapse saying a ship had lost its steering and asked officers to stop all traffic on the bridge, according to Maryland Transportation Authority first responder radio traffic obtained from the Broadcastify.com archive.

The whole bridge just fell down

One officer who stopped traffic radioed that he was going to drive onto the bridge to alert the construction crew. But seconds later, a frantic officer said: The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever, everybody ... the whole bridge just collapsed.

On a separate radio channel for maintenance and construction workers, someone said officers were stopping traffic because a ship had lost steering. There was no follow-up order to evacuate, and 30 seconds later the bridge fell and the channel went silent.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collision, according to the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

The collapse is sure to create a logistical nightmare for months, if not years, along the East Coast, shutting down ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major shipping hub. The accident will also snarl cargo and commuter traffic.

Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast, Maryland state Sen. Johnny Ray Salling said.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, speaking at a news conference near the site, said it was too soon to estimate how long it will take to clear the channel, which is about 50 feet deep.

I do not know of a bridge that has been constructed to withstand a direct impact from a vessel of this size, he said.

Synergy Marine Group  which manages the ship, called the Dali  confirmed the vessel hit a pillar of the bridge at about 1:30 a.m. while in control of one or more pilots, who are local specialists who help guide vessels safely into and out of ports. The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd.

Synergy said all crew members and the two pilots on board were accounted for, and there were no reports of any injuries.

The ship was moving at 8 knots, roughly 9 mph, the governor said.

Jagged remnants of the bridge could be seen jutting up from the water's surface. The on-ramp ended abruptly where the span once began.

What were weather, water conditions?

Donald Heinbuch, a retired chief with Baltimores fire department, said he was startled awake by a deep rumbling that shook his house for several seconds. It felt like an earthquake, he said.

He drove to the river's edge and couldnt believe what he saw.

The ship was there, and the bridge was in the water, like it was blown up, he said.

The bridge spans the Patapsco River at the entrance to a busy harbor, which leads to the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Opened in 1977, the bridge is named for the writer of The Star-Spangled Banner.

Wiedefeld said all vessel traffic into and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though the facility was still open to trucks.

President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore and intends for the federal government to pick up the entire cost of rebuilding.

This is going to take some time, Biden said.

The Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic. The container ship is about 985 feet long and about 157 feet wide, according to the website.

Inspectors found a problem with the Dalis machinery in June, but a more recent examination did not identify any deficiencies, according to the shipping information system Equasis.

Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

Last year, the Port of Baltimore handled a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo worth $80 billion, according to the state.

The head of a supply chain management company said Americans should expect shortages of goods from the effect of the collapse on ocean container shipping and East Coast trucking.

Its not just the port of Baltimore thats going to be impacted, said Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport.

The collapse, though, is not likely to hurt worldwide trade because Baltimore is not a major port for container vessels, but its facilities are more important when it comes to goods such as farm equipment and autos, said Judah Levine, head of research for global freight booking platform Freightos.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapses
Local casinos are anticipated to close this month with earnings ranging between MOP19 to 19.5 billion, Citigroup and JP Morgan said in separate statements.

According to the two financial companies, during the first three weeks of this month (until Mar. 24), the local casinos earned some MOP14.9 billion. They foresee the month closing with earnings ranging between MOP19 to MOP19.5 billion, with JP Morgan and Citi providing the respective forecasts.

These projected numbers are in line with both companies expectations, with March anticipated to be stable.

According to Citi, the average daily gaming revenue for the past week was MOP629 million, unchanged from the previous week.

The bank also noted that local authorities anticipate over 100,000 tourists will visit Macau during the upcoming Easter and Qingming Festival season.

While adopting a conservative approach, Citi maintained its revenue forecast of MOP19.5 billion for the entire month, suggesting that with the approaching Easter holiday, daily revenues may rise to a daily average of around MOP657 million. RM
Gao Fu, Chinese academic, will speak at the seminar at the University of Macau (UM) held at 4 p.m. today to present his insights on virus-host interactions. Gao is an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), an international member of the US National Academy of Sciences, and professor in the Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. During his UM talk, Professor Gao will analyze and provide insights on the design and development of drugs and vaccines related to mechanisms of viral invasion and transmission, as well as research on drug resistance mechanisms.

Related
The owners of a Malaysian convenience store chain and one of its suppliers were charged yesterday with offending the religious feelings of Muslims after socks printed with the word Allah were found for sale on its shelves.

Chai Kee Kan, founder and chairman of the KK Mart Group, the countrys second-large chain of convenience stores, and his wife Loh Siew Mui, a company director, pleaded not guilty to charges of deliberately wounding the religious feelings of Muslims. The company has blamed its supplier for sending products the company had not agreed to stock.

Religion is a sensitive issue in Malaysia, where Muslims account for two-thirds of a population of 34 million, with large ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities. Allah is an Arabic word for God, and many Malaysian Muslims found it offensive to associate the word with feet.

The word Allah is highly esteemed in the eyes of Muslims, Minister for Religious Affairs Mohamad Naim Mokhtar was quoted as saying by the national Bernama news agency earlier this month. Allah is our creator and the act of putting Allah at our feet is an insult.

Alwani Ghazali, a senior Islamic lecturer at Malaya University, told radio station BFM that its demeaning because feet are associated with a lowly status.

Socks stink, do you agree? Are you happy to smell your socks after using them all day? she said. As a Muslim, I think its inappropriate and (the issue) is a big deal.

The founder of the supplier that provided the socks, Xin Jian Chang, as well as his wife and daughter who are directors were also charged with abetting the offence. Xin Jian Chang has said the socks were imported from China as part of a large shipment and apologized for being careless in their inspection.

If found guilty, all five defendants face up to a year in jail, a fine or both.

KK Mart is a major 24-hour chain, with 810 stores domestically and some 5,000 employees. It also has outlets in Nepal and India. Chai has said the socks were put on its shelves by Xin Jian Chang, which rented shelf space in its outlets. Only 14 pairs of Allah socks were found on the shelves at three KK Mart outlets, he added.

KK Mart has sued Xin Jian Chang for sabotage over losses and damage to the chains reputation, reportedly claiming that it didnt agree to stock socks from the supplier. MDT/AP
In collaboration with the Macao Federation of Trade Unions (FAOM), the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) will host three job-matching sessions in April, offering 337 vacancies in total for qualified candidates. Of these, 124 will be in the supermarket retail industry, with sessions scheduled for the morning of Apr. 8. A food retail session with 190 vacancies will be held in the same afternoon. The afternoon on Apr. 9 will present 23 vacancies in the hotel industry. The first two sessions will be held at the FAOM center near Border Gate, while the last session will be held at the ballroom of Hotel Okura Macau. Registration opens from 9 a.m. on Mar. 27 to 12 p.m. on Apr. 5.

Related
The Cotai hospital opened the ultrasound imaging service for patients referred by the Health Bureau (SSM) on Monday and served two patients on the same day, according to a statement from the public-private medical facility. The same statement said that the new hospital will gradually accept patients referred by the SSM to ultrasound imaging and radiography services from March, with a view to prioritizing public medical services. Currently, the hospital will only serve such patients in the afternoon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Related
Do people see residential property as a utility or an investment? Hong Kongs property tycoons are racing to find out.

Consider Uptown East in Kowloon Bay, developed by Wong Sun Hing Ltd. Its latest pre-sales pitch included a so-called super flex stage payment plan, where buyers only need to put down 5% deposit, with the rest to be paid upon completion, expected in 2025. This payment plan was not available earlier this month. Last week, Wong Sun Hing and its partner New World Development Co. sold 50 of the latest 132 units on offer in the first 30 minutes. A recent survey by Bloomberg Intelligence shows that more than half of Hong Kongs home buyers could accelerate their purchase plans over fears of price hikes.

Wong Sun Hing is essentially writing a call option to those who want upside exposures. After all, home prices have broadly dropped by 25% since their 2021 high. The average selling price of Uptown Easts first batch of units was HK$14,808 ($1,893) per square foot, or 31% lower than an adjacent complex nearby, which went up for sale in December 2021.

This kind of transaction works for both sides. Developers are in a hurry. They need to capture this golden sales window, created by the governments complete removal of its decade-long home purchase restrictions late February. The aim is to show banks that their projects can still sell, so nervous lenders do not pull loans. Meanwhile, if the citys property market doesnt rebound in a years time, buyers can simply walk away, and builders will be able to keep the forfeited deposits and thereby lower their cost base.

With the citys future still uncertain, Hong Kongs developers need to be aggressive. That can even mean deploying sales tactics that do not make sense from an operating cash flow perspective.

As for investors, it was a leveraged play  20 times gearing in Uptown Easts case  to test out an important market where liquidity and transparency were drained over time by the governments past policies. According to Morgan Stanley, even without counting those from the mainland, there are around 184,000 non-permanent residents in Hong Kong who can now purchase apartments without paying extra stamp duty. Among existing residents, about 408,000 have wealth above HK$10 million and could buy a second home  with no additional tax burden  as an investment. About two-thirds of the citys households are mortgage-free. Buying a call option is thus the best way to explore this kind of blue-sky scenario.

This perhaps explains the logic behind some of the seemingly outlandish deals in recent weeks. A buyer bought all 24 units put up for sale at Henderson Land Development Co.s Belgravia Place project for more than HK$166 million. This pre-sales move allows investors to delay 90% of payments until delivery.

So far, primary sales this month seem to indicate a sizable chunk of investment demand. Last weekend, Wheelock Properties Ltd. sold out its entire first batch of 368 units on offer, with investors taking up one-fifth of the total. Apparently, people in Hong Kong dont quite agree with President Xi Jinpings mantra that housing is to be lived in, not speculated upon.

Ultimately, this phenomenon goes down to the citys lack of wealth management options for the middle class. Hong Kong has hundreds of thousands of mini-millionaires that private bankers ignore. As such, people are going for physical assets instead. Hong Kongs billionaire developers must be somewhat relieved. [Abridged]

Courtesy Bloomberg/Shuli Ren
Le Van Tam is no stranger to how the vagaries of global trade can determine the fortunes of small coffee farmers like him.

He first planted coffee in a patch of land outside Buon Ma Thuot city in Vietnams Central Highland region in 1995. For years, his focus was on quantity, not quality. Tam used ample amounts of fertilizer and pesticides to boost his yields, and global prices determined how well he did.

Then, in 2019, he teamed up with Le Dinh Tu of Aeroco Coffee, an organic exporter to Europe and the U.S., and adopted more sustainable methods, turning his coffee plantation (field) into a a sun-dappled forest. The coffee grows side-by-side with tamarind trees that add nitrogen to the soil and provide support for black pepper vines. Grass helps keep the soil moist and the mix of plants discourages pest outbreaks. The pepper also adds to Tams income.

The output hasnt increased, but the products value has, he said.

In the 1990s, Tam was among thousands of Vietnamese farmers who planted more than a million hectares of coffee, mostly robusta, to take advantage of high global prices. By 2000, Vietnam had become the second-largest producer of coffee, which provides a tenth of its export income.

Vietnam is hoping that farmers like Tam will benefit from a potential reordering of how coffee is traded due to more stringent European laws to stop deforestation.

The European Deforestation Regulation or EUDR will outlaw sales of products like coffee from December 30, 2024, if companies cant prove they are not linked with deforestation. The new rules dont just seek to reduce risks of illegal logging and its scope is wide: It will apply to cocoa, coffee, soy, palm oil, wood, rubber, and cattle. To sell those products in Europe big companies will have to provide evidence showing they come from land where forests havent been cut since 2020. Smaller companies have till July 2025 to do so.

Deforestation is the second-biggest source of carbon emissions after fossil fuels. Europe ranked second behind China in the amount of deforestation caused by its imports in 2017, according to a 2021 World Wildlife Fund report. If implemented well, the EUDR could help reduce this, especially if the more stringent standards for tracing where products come from becomes the new normal, Helen Bellfield a policy director at Global Canopy told The Associated Press in an interview.

Its not failsafe

Companies can just sell products that dont meet the new requirements elsewhere, without reducing deforestation. Thousands of small farmers unable to provide the potentially expensive data could be left out. Much depends on how countries and companies react to the new laws, Bellfield said. Countries must help smaller farmers by building national systems ensure their exports are traceable. Otherwise, companies may just buy from very large farms that can prove they have complied.

Already, orders for Ethiopian grown coffee have fallen. And Peru lacks the capacity to provide information needed for coffee and cocoa grown in the Peruvian Amazon.

This is on top of other challenges, which in Vietnam include worsening droughts and receding ground water levels.

There will be winners and losers, she said.

Vietnam cant afford to lose  Europe is the largest market for its coffee, comprising 40% of its coffee exports. Six weeks after the EUDR was approved, Vietnams agriculture ministry started working to prepare coffee growing provinces for the shift. It has since rolled out a national plan that includes a database of where crops are grown and mechanisms to make this information traceable.

The Southeast Asian nation has long promoted more sustainable farming methods, viewing laws like the EUDR as an an inevitable change, according to an August 2023 agriculture ministry communique. The EUDR could help accelerate such a transformation, according to agriculture minister Le Minh Hoang.

Tam and Tu, his export partner, were quick to adapt.

Even if the costs are higher, Tu said, they can get better prices for their high quality coffee

We must choose the highest quality. Otherwise, we will always be laborers, Tu said, while sipping a cup of his favorite coffee at his companys coffee processing factory adjoining Tams farm. This is where trucks laden with red coffee cherries, both robusta and arabica, arrive from other farms, where the pulp of the fruit removed and beans of coffee laid out on tables to dry in the sun.

Tu already has certificates from international agencies for sustainability that will enable him to deal with the EUDR. Such certificates typically address the issue of deforestation, although some tweaks may be needed, said David Hadley, program director for regulatory impacts at the non-profit group Preferred by Nature in Costa Rica.

Ensuring that Vietnams roughly half a million small farmers, who produce about 85% of its coffee, are able to collect and provide data showing their farms did not cause deforestation remains a challenge. Some may struggle to use smartphones to collect geolocation coordinates. Small exporters need to set up systems to prevent other uncertified products from being mixed with coffee that meets EUDR requirements, said Loan Le of International Economics Consulting.

Farmers also will need documents proving they have complied with national laws for land use, environmental protection and labor, Le said. Moreover, coffees long value chain  from producing beans to collecting them and processing them  requires digital systems to ensure records are error-free.

The South American way

Brazil, the worlds largest coffee producer, is better placed, said Bellfield of Global Canopy, since its coffee grows on plantations that far are away from forests and it has a relatively well organized supply chain. Also, Brazilian-grown coffee is most likely to meet the EUDR requirements, according to a 2024 Brazilian study, because much of it is exported to the EU, Brazil has fewer small farmers, and about a third of its coffee growing acreage already has some kind of sustainability certification.

The EUDR has acknowledged concerns for less well prepared suppliers by giving them more time and said the European government will work with impacted countries to enable the transition while paying particular attention to the needs of small holders and Indigenous communities. A review in 2028 will also look at impacts on smallholders.

Despite this we still anticipate it being costly and difficult for small holder farming communities, she said.

In Peru, collecting information about hundreds of thousands of small farmers is difficult given the countrys weak institutions and the fact that most farmers lack land titles, according to a study of EUDR impacts by the Amazon Business Alliance, a joint-initiative by USAID, Canada and the nonprofit group Conservation International.

Ethiopia, where coffee makes up about a third of total export earnings according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report, has been slow to react. The national plan it rolled out in February 2024 fails to resolve the fundamental issue of how to gather required data from millions of small farmers and provide that information to buyers, said Gizat Worku, head of the Ethiopian Coffee Exporters Association.

That requires a huge amount of resources, he said

Gizat, who like many Ethiopians goes by his first name, said that orders are falling due to doubts about the countrys ability to comply with the EUDR. Some traders are contemplating switching to other markets, like the Middle East or China, where Ethiopian coffee is booming, he said. But switching markets isnt easy.

These regulations are going to have a tremendous impact, Gizat said. ANIRUDDHA GHOSAL, BUON MA THUOT, MDT/AP
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu yesterday vowed to press ahead with Israels offensive and blasted a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for a pause in the fighting, saying it had emboldened Hamas to reject a separate proposal for a cease-fire and hostage release.

As the war in Gaza grinds through a sixth month, each side has publicly insisted that its own idea of victory is in reach and rejected international efforts to stem the bloodshed.

Netanyahu has said Israel can achieve its aims of dismantling Hamas and returning scores of hostages if it expands its ground offensive to the southern city of Rafah, where over half of Gazas population has sought refuge, many in crowded tent camps.

Hamas has said it will hold onto the hostages until Israel agrees to a more permanent cease-fire, withdraws its forces from Gaza and releases hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants. It said late Monday that it has rejected a recent proposal that fell short of those demands  which, if fulfilled, would allow it to claim an extremely costly victory.

Netanyahu said in a statement that the announcement proved clearly that Hamas is not interested in continuing negotiations toward a deal and served as unfortunate testimony to the damage of the Security Council decision.

Israel will not surrender to Hamas delusional demands and will continue to act to achieve all the goals of the war: releasing all the hostages, destroying Hamas military and governing capabilities and ensuring that Gaza will never again be a threat to Israel.

The war has killed over 32,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its tally but says women and children make up about two-thirds of those killed. The fighting has left much of the Gaza Strip in ruins, displaced most its residents and driven a third of its population of 2.3 million to the brink of famine.

An Israeli strike late Monday on a residential building in Rafah where three displaced families were sheltering killed at least 16 people, including nine children and four women, according to hospital records and relatives of the deceased. An Associated Press reporter saw the bodies arrive at a hospital.

On Monday, the Security Council finally managed to pass a resolution calling for a cease-fire as the United States abstained instead of vetoing the measure, angering Israel in a major escalation of tensions between the two close allies. The resolution calls for the release of all hostages held in Gaza but did not condition the cease-fire on it.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz told Army Radio yesterday that the resolution had emboldened Hamas by signaling that international pressure would end the war without it having to make any concessions.

The message delivered to Hamas yesterday  is that you dont have to hurry, Katz said.

The war began on Oct. 7, when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border and attacked communities in southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 others. It is still believed to be holding about 100 hostages and the remains of 30 others, after most of the rest were freed in November in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners.

The United States, Qatar and Egypt have spent several weeks trying to negotiate another cease-fire and hostage release, but those efforts appeared to have stalled.

Hamas said late Monday that Israel has not responded to its core demands of a comprehensive cease-fire, an (Israeli) withdrawal from the Strip, the return of displaced people and a real prisoner exchange.

Majed al-Ansari, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Qatar, which is currently hosting the talks, told reporters that the negotiations were still ongoing, without providing details.

Hamas has previously proposed a phased process in which it would release all the remaining hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the opening of its borders for aid and reconstruction, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants serving life sentences.

Netanyahu has vowed to resume Israels offensive after any hostage release and keep fighting until Hamas is destroyed, saying its the only way to prevent a repeat of the Oct. 7 attack. But he has provided few details about what would follow any such victory and has largely rejected a postwar vision outlined by the U.S.

That approach has brought him into increasingly open conflict with President Joe Bidens administration, which has expressed mounting concern over civilian casualties while supplying Israel with crucial military aid and backing Israels aim of destroying Hamas. The U.S. had vetoed previous U.N. resolutions calling for a cease-fire.

The White House has urged Israel not to undertake a major ground operation in Rafah, warning that it could cause a humanitarian catastrophe. The administration was set to brief visiting Israeli officials on an alternative approach, but Netanyahu called off their visit in response to the U.S. abstention at the U.N. TIA GOLDENBERG, JERUSALEM, MDT/AP
Hong Kongs leader said yesterday that prisoners convicted for serious national security crimes would not likely be granted early release under the tightened rules of a new national security law, signaling a hardening government stance against jailed political activists.

Chief Executive John Lee said the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance stipulates that people found guilty of endangering national security must not be granted remission unless the commissioner of correctional services believes the move would not be a national security risk. This also applies to inmates who received sentences before the new law was introduced last Saturday, Lee said.

Previously, inmates could have their prison sentences reduced by up to one-third for good conduct under the citys prison rules, provided they were serving terms longer than one month.

At a weekly press briefing, Lee urged residents not to defy the law.

We need to make sure everyone understands that if someone was convicted of serious national security offenses, normally there would not be remission of sentence, he said.

Lees comments came after local media, including the South China Morning Post, reported that the early release of activist Ma Chun-man, which had been scheduled for Monday, was blocked under the new national security law. The remission had been granted due to his good conduct and the blockage was the first of its kind, according to the reports, which cited unnamed sources.

The revised practice is expected to affect other activists who are jailed or undergoing trials under a similar sweeping security law imposed by Beijing four years ago to quell massive anti-government protests in 2019.

The Associated Press could not independently verify Mas case.

Ma was serving a five-year term for inciting secession under the 2020 security law. He was convicted in 2021 for repeatedly advocating for Hong Kongs independence.

At the press briefing, Lee did not confirm Mas case when asked about it but said the commissioner handles cases in accordance with the law. He said anyone who disagrees with the commissioners handling of a case can seek to resolve the matter through legal means.

In an emailed response to the AP, the correctional services department refused to comment on individual cases. But it said the commissioner would consider all relevant factors, including inmates statements, on a case-by-case basis to ensure all cases are handled fairly.

The new national security law was unanimously passed in an expedited legislative process last week, deepening worries over a further erosion of the citys freedoms. Western governments, including the United States, have criticized the legislation.

As of yesterday, authorities have not announced any arrests under the new law, which they say balances security with safeguarding rights and freedoms. They also say the legislation was needed to keep the city safe against potential sabotage and undercurrents that try to create troubles. KANIS LEUNG, HONG KONG, MDT/AP
The Public Works Bureau (DSOP) announced yesterday that the fourth bridge connecting Macau and Taipa has been officially named the Macau Bridge after an extensive process of public suggestion, voting and vetting.

It took the government three months and 10 days to determine the name, which most social media users regarded as unimpressive.

The name suggestion campaign received over 14,000 names from 5,703 local residents. The vetting committee then shortlisted of 88 names, which were further filtered down to 37 options. After public voting, five names emerged as the most popular choices: Macau Bridge, New Town Bridge, Mirror Sea Bridge, Silver Jubilee Bridge and Hou Kong Bridge.

Members of the public took to Facebook to express their opinions on the name. One user questioned why it took so long to determine a relatively unoriginal name, in the comments on a post by public broadcaster TDM Chinese.

Another social media user suggested the government reconsider, saying that eventual incidents on the bridge could tarnish the name of Macau.

On the Facebook page of pro-government Macao Daily News, a social media user lamented that talented individuals often leave Macau due to missed opportunities and poor decisions like this one. AL
Hackers allegedly linked to China launched a state-sponsored operation that targeted New Zealands Parliament in 2021, the countrys security minister said yesterday, an allegation refuted by Beijing.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian dismissed the allegations as typical political manipulation concocted by the U.S. and U.K., with whom it is in conflict over issues including Taiwan, the South China Sea, Xinjiang, Hong Kong and a wide range of trade disputes.

For some time, the U.S., for geopolitical purposes, has encouraged the Five Eyes Alliance, the worlds largest intelligence organization dominated by the U.S., to fabricate and disseminate all kinds of disinformation about threats posed by Chinese hackers, Lin said at a daily briefing yesterday, citing the alliance between Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.K. and U.S. to collect and share sensitive information.

New Zealands allegation comes a day after American and British authorities announced a set of criminal charges and sanctions against seven hackers, all believed to be living in China, who targeted U.S. officials, journalists, corporations and pro-democracy activists, as well as the U.K.s election watchdog.

New Zealands bureaus National Cyber Security Centre completed a robust technical assessment following a compromise of the Parliamentary Counsel Office and the Parliamentary Service in 2021, and has attributed this activity to a PRC (China) state-sponsored group known as APT40, Judith Collins, the defense minister responsible for the Government Communications Security Bureau said in a statement.

Collins said New Zealand will not follow the U.S. and U.K. in sanctioning China because New Zealand does not have a law allowing such penalties, nor were there plans to introduce legislation.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed New Zealands concerns had been conveyed to Chinese Ambassador Wang Xiaolong.

Foreign interference of this nature is unacceptable, and we have urged China to refrain from such activity in future, Peters said in a statement yesterday. New Zealand will continue to speak out  consistently and predictably  where we see concerning behaviors like this.

Peters met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, on March 18, and said the countries share a significant and complex relationship.

We cooperate with China in some areas for mutual benefit, he said. At the same time, we have also been consistent and clear that we will speak out on issues of concern. MDT/AP
A candied pecan company headquartered in the Madison area won a business award this week.

Fortune Favors, formerly known as Nutkrack, won the Small Business Administrations Wisconsin Small Business Persons of the Year award for its quick pandemic pivots from in-person retail to online sales and rapid growth, according to the SBA. The company opened in 2018, and has a retail space at 2086 Atwood Ave. and headquarters in the Cottage Grove Commerce Park.

We were notified about two and a half weeks ago, said CEO Sam McDaniel. We were very excited. It was a really validating moment for our whole team. Im not embarrassed to say that I shed some tears.

He said the rapidly growing business is now worth in the high seven figures.

In November 2022, the company moved its production and headquarters out of its Atwood Avenue space and into an 18,900-square-foot facility in Cottage Grove. That space has a large commercial kitchen, offices, a break room, warehouse space, a loading dock and walk-in coolers.

Fortune Favors still sells and ships products out of its Atwood location and has 15 employees, McDaniel said.

McDaniel said Fortune Favor is now a nominee for the U.S. Small Business Administrations National Small Business Person of the Year. Fortune Favors is among 60 nominees that will travel to Washington, D.C., in late April for an awards reception, he said.

This is a really positive shock to the system, McDaniel said.
A Dane County jury deliberated for 90 minutes Wednesday before finding a state law enforcement agent not guilty of recklessly firing his gun at a suspect during an arrest operation two years ago on Madisons Far East Side.

The verdict acquitted state Division of Criminal Investigation Special Agent Mark Wagner, 51, of Milwaukee, of second-degree reckless endangerment, a charge he faced for firing two shots at Quadren Wilson, 40, who had been boxed in between two DCI trucks as agents moved in to arrest him in February 2022 as part of a long-standing drug probe.

There were restrained smiles in the packed courtroom immediately after the verdict, and Wagner showed little immediate emotion. But as Wagner left the courtroom with his attorneys, Michael Steinle and Daniel Sanders, applause and cheers broke out in the corridor outside the courtroom, where supporters  including a phalanx of DCI agents  lined both sides and applauded and cheered as Wagner and his lawyers passed through them.

They did not stop to speak to reporters.

Wilson, who is currently in the Dane County Jail on new drug-related charges, listened to the verdict on the phone. Members of his family who had attended most, if not all, of the trial were not present when the verdict was reached.

District Attorney Ismael Ozanne commented briefly after the verdict was read.

The jury did their job, he said. They heard all the evidence. We knew this would be a difficult decision. This is what we have.

Agents from DCI, along with members of other law enforcement agencies, converged on a vehicle Wilson was driving near the intersection of American Parkway and Eastpark Drive on Feb. 3, 2022, pinning the vehicle between two trucks in a turn lane.

Wilson tried to break free from the maneuver, called a subject in custody maneuver, sending up plumes of smoke from his tires, according to testimony at the trial.

Wagner, with a ballistics shield, led two other agents toward the vehicle, and Wagner shouted commands to Wilson to show his hands.

Wagner testified Tuesday that Wilson, in the drivers seat, squared his shoulders toward Wagner, which Wagner believed was an indication Wilson had a gun. Wagner fired his 9mm handgun, which prompted fellow agent Nathan Peskie to fire his AR-15 rifle into Wilsons car.

Wagner also said he thought he was struck by gunfire that knocked him backward.

Wilson was struck in the back by bullet fragments from Peskies rifle. Wagners shots did not hit Wilson. Peskie was not charged with a crime and testified Monday under an immunity agreement.

Jury instructions

At the end of the trial, jurors were to consider whether Wagner endangered the safety of others by criminally reckless conduct that risked injuring others. That risk had to be unreasonable and substantial, according to jury instructions, and Wagner had to be aware that what he did created an unreasonable and substantial risk of death or great bodily harm.

Jurors were also allowed to consider that, as a police officer, Wagner had the privilege to use deadly force if, while making an arrest, he believed the use of force was necessary and his belief was reasonable. Jurors could also consider whether Wagner acted in self-defense, and whether he believed he needed to use force to defend himself or others, and whether the belief was reasonable even if mistaken.

During closing arguments, Assistant District Attorney Matthew Moeser said Wagner acted unreasonably because he never saw Wilson with a gun.

How did Mr. Wagner endanger Mr. Wilsons safety? He fired a handgun at close range at Quadren Wilson twice despite the fact that Mr. Wagner never saw a gun or an object that looked like a gun, Moeser said. He said Wilson was finally complying and putting his hands up.

Ozanne argued that although Wilson had been gunning the vehicles engine, sending it careening back and forth between DCI vehicles that were pinning it in place, there was testimony from a federal Drug Enforcement Agency agent in the lead vehicle that the shooting started only after there was a pause in the acceleration.

There was a pause before shots rang out, Ozanne said, and then the agent took cover in a vehicle.

We cant discount the fact that we have a witness, a credible witness, a law enforcement witness, who indicates there is a pause, Ozanne said. The screeching of the tires, there is a pause, before gunshots ring out.

Closing arguments

Steinle, though, spent much of his closing argument attacking Wilson, telling the jury that Wilsons testimony, that he was trying to comply with Wagners orders, was not to be believed. He highlighted Wilsons criminal history, his lack of a work record or a drivers license, and his history as a drug dealer.

How many times in those 26 (convictions) did he look up at the judge and say, Im going to do better, Im going to get a job to support my children? Im not going to do this anymore, Steinle said. Hes a con artist, ladies and gentlemen, he doesnt like authority, he doesnt like the black robe up there telling him, When you get out of prison I want you to get a job where you get a paycheck and support those children. What did he do? He thumbed his nose.

Steinle added later, Hes just a bold-faced liar. You cant believe him.

He said the prosecutions case against Wagner was all about the fact that Wilson did not have a gun, but that wasnt enough to convict Wagner.

I dont care if theres a gun, he said, its the belief that theres a gun. How can Peskie say, I saw the muzzle of a gun when there is no gun and hes justified, and then Mark Wagner says I believed he was coming up with a gun but hes not justified? Peskie says he saw the muzzle of a gun, but thats not true but thats what he believed. So were giving him a pass but Mark has to suffer. That doesnt make sense, ladies and gentlemen.

The investigation, Steinle said, included an unenlightening re-creation of conditions on that day that would let investigators see what Wagner could see when he looked through Wilsons heavily tinted windows. He also called an attempt to trace bullet trajectories a clown show.

But the case was not about Wilson but was about what Wagner did, prosecutors said. Ozanne told jurors that they didnt have to like Wilson, but the law must protect Mr. Wilson, because if the law doesnt protect Mr. Wilson the law doesnt protect any of us.

Moeser said police officers are, and should be, protected by law for situations in which they have to use force that risks death or great bodily harm to avoid death or injury to others.

But just like any privilege, its limited. Its limited only to circumstances in which thats reasonable and necessary, he said. Theyre protected if their beliefs are mistaken, as long as theyre reasonable.

Civil action still possible

Wilsons attorney, Stephen Eisenberg, said he was not surprised by the verdict. But he said he will continue to look into a possible civil lawsuit, now that he is able to seek police reports and other materials that he couldnt get before. Under Wisconsins open records law, records from pending criminal cases can be withheld. He said much of what he heard at Wagners trial he was hearing for the first time.

I think that the entire decision making process by DCI to arrest Quadren in the manner in which they did with 30 police officers and tactical armor was a precursor to the entire disturbing police action, Eisenberg said. The way they played cowboy, he said, and arrested someone who was wearing a GPS monitor, so they knew where he was at all times, was absolutely horrendous and laid the foundation for what happened.

Quadren is not Pablo Escobar and hes not Scarface, Eisenberg said. It was so unnecessary. DCI should at least be thankful they didnt kill Quadren, though I think they dont care that much.
A state law enforcement agent accused of recklessly firing his service weapon two years ago at the subject of an arrest operation took the witness stand Tuesday, likely the last witness to testify before a jury decides whether his actions were criminal.

Mark Wagner, 51, of Milwaukee, a state Division of Criminal Investigation agent charged with second-degree recklessly endangering safety, said he believed he only fired once at Quadren Wilson, 40, of Madison, because he believed Wilson had fired first at him.

But Wagner admitted under cross-examination that he was wrong on both assertions.

Wagner shot at Wilson while a task force of officers from the DCI and other agencies moved in to arrest Wilson on Feb. 3, 2022, after first wedging the vehicle Wilson was driving between two DCI trucks at the intersection of American Parkway and Eastpark Drive on Madisons Far East Side.

Wilson was wounded by bullet fragments, not fired by Wagner but by fellow agent Nathan Peskie, who fired his AR-15 rifle after Wagner fired his 9mm handgun. Peskie was not charged with a crime.

On the witness stand, Wagner testified he fired because he believed that Wilson was making furtive movements with his hands, which were out of view, before turning squarely toward Wagner, who was leading a three-agent team behind the ballistics shield Wagner was carrying.

Wagner testified that Wilson, after three times looking at Wagner and then looking away, had squared his right shoulder toward Wagner, and that was when Wagner said he felt the impact of what he believed was a gunshot against his shield. He said he thought Wilson had a gun.

I heard a gunshot, he said.

No gun was found in Wilsons vehicle, however.

Asked later by his attorney, Michael Steinle, whether the impact he felt and noise he heard could have been the impact of an errant Halligan tool that was used to smash out a window on Wilsons car by Special Agent Brian Hawley, Wagner said he thought that was possible.

I believed it was a gunshot, he said. I believed it was a fired round.

Regardless, Wagner said, he fell backward from the impact, and at the same time, fired his gun. Wagner said he believed he fired just once.

Ive never been shot before, Wagner said, but it felt like the pressure was pushing me straight back.

And that was when he returned fire, he said.

Wagners testimony on direct examination, answering questions for his attorney, was a straightforward accounting of the incident from his perspective. He engaged jurors by looking directly at them when he answered questions and did not become emotional as he spoke of the incident or its aftermath.

On cross-examination by Assistant District Attorney Matthew Moeser, Wagner stuck stubbornly to describing the number of shots he took by saying he believed he took one shot  he said he only remembered firing once  when he knew from a count of the rounds left in his gun on the day of the incident that he had fired twice.

Asked by Moeser what Wagners goal was in giving a statement to the Dane County Sheriffs Office, which investigated the officer-involved shooting, Wagner responded, to give a truthful account of what happened that day based on what I remember.

When he said, I believe I fired once, Moeser responded, You were wrong.

Moeser also told Wagner he was wrong in his belief that he had been fired at, and Wagner admitted, Mr. Wilson did not have a firearm.

Earlier, Moeser asked Wagner whether his memory of firing once was wrong based on the physical evidence showing he had fired twice. Wagner paused for several seconds, then said, Yes.
Authorities have identified the armed person fatally shot by a Janesville police officer on March 1 and the officer.

Andrew Zigler, 52, was shot by Sgt. Jimmy Holford III, a 16-year law enforcement veteran, the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation said in a statement Tuesday.

The incident began when Janesville police responded to a 911 call reporting an armed person in the 1200 block of North Parker Street. When Janesville officers arrived, they contacted the armed person, now identified as Zigler, who refused to leave the residence. Two other people were unable to safely leave the residence, DCI said.

Holford then shot and hit Zigler, who died at the scene, the DCI said.

No law enforcement personnel were injured, and a gun was located at the scene, according to the DCI.

Holford, who was wearing a body camera during the incident, was placed on administrative leave, per Janesville Police Department policy, DCI said.

The Division of Criminal Investigation is leading the investigation, and the agency will turn over investigative reports to the Rock County District Attorney when the investigation is complete.
Organizers of a recall effort targeting Assembly Speaker Robin Vos on Tuesday asked a Dane County judge for additional time to defend their petition  citing uncertainty over which legislative boundaries would apply after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled late last year that the states previous maps are unconstitutional.

The recall effort was launched in January by Republicans frustrated that Vos had refused former president Donald Trumps request to overturn the 2020 presidential election, something the speaker, who had fallen out with Trump, is legally and constitutionally unable to do even if he wanted to.

Vos, the longest-serving speaker in state history, challenged the recall last week, asserting the effort had fallen woefully short of the minimum signature threshold, while also claiming the groups petitions submitted to the Wisconsin Elections Commission earlier this month were plagued with fraud and criminality.

Recall organizers had until Tuesday to file a rebuttal to Vos challenge. Instead, the group filed a request in Dane County Circuit Court on Monday seeking an extension to the challenge period, citing ongoing uncertainties surrounding the legislative district boundaries which are crucial for the analysis of the petition.

Despite facing adversarial tactics aimed at undermining the effort, Recall Vos has reportedly garnered more valid signatures than the votes (Vos) received in his last primary election, organizers wrote in a statement first reported by WisPolitics.com. This achievement highlights the clear message from the residents of District 63: there is a strong desire for change in representation.

Organizers said they hope for a swift resolution that allows for a fair assessment of the petition.

While members of the group said they submitted more than 10,000 signatures, commission staff said a preliminary review found just over 9,000 were potentially valid. The review also found the effort appears to have fallen more than 900 signatures short of the 6,850 needed in Vos old district to force an election.

Vos was elected in the 63rd Assembly District, but new maps signed earlier this year by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers place Vos in the new 33rd Assembly District. Whats more, some of Vos previous territory now falls in the new 66th Assembly District.

Regardless of the number of signatures collected, its unclear which legislative district hed run in after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled late last year that maps used in the 2022 election are unconstitutional, barring their use in any subsequent election. New maps signed into law earlier this year dont go into effect until November.

In his challenge, Vos argues a recall can only take place in the new 33rd Assembly District.

The elections commission has asked the Supreme Court to clarify which boundaries should be used for the potential recall  a decision that could determine how many signatures are needed or deemed valid.

A recall election would be triggered if petitions are signed by enough qualified electors  equal to at least 25% of votes cast in the 2022 election  living within Vos district. That means the elections commission must know which district applies to the recall effort in order to determine if enough valid signatures have been submitted within those boundaries.

The states high court has not yet weighed in on the matter. Organizers of the recall have asked for an extension of five days after the Supreme Court decides which maps should apply.

In his challenge, Vos pointed to at least 20 individuals named on the petitions who claim their signatures were forged, as well as fraudulent signatures for at least three minors. Vos also alleges petitions include names of people who are ineligible to vote and someone who was being held in the Racine County Jail at the time they allegedly signed the petition.

In addition, Vos alleges 471 signers did not provide their correct municipality and 831 signers provided illegible or incomplete address information. Recall signers must include a complete address.

Organizers of the recall effort did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday. In a statement last week, the group attributed suspicious signatures to sabotage committed by people from outside the state.

Organizers said they meticulously followed every rule, adding later that despite our vigilance, a few unverified petitions slipped through due to a volunteer oversight, a regrettable yet isolated incident.

Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapses
Right-wing border-bashing is reaching a fever pitch. Conservative politicians and media outlets have gone beyond condemning all migrants and refugees as criminals and invaders. Theyre now accusing even migrant aid organizations of working with cartels to facilitate sex trafficking and drug smuggling.

On Jan. 17, right-wing activist James OKeefe posted a video he filmed of a migrant shelter operated by Casa Alitas in Tucson, Arizona, which he claimed was a secret facility that none of the American people knew about until now, according to the Arizona Star. After Elon Musk commented on it twice, the video was viewed nearly 3 million times on X.

On Feb. 14, Rep. Tom Tiffany, R-Minocqua, tried to gain access to the Casa Alitas shelter. Employees had to call 911 to have him removed from the property. Tiffany then accused Casa Alitas and the humanitarian aid group Tucson Samaritans of aiding illegals and called for them to be investigated by Congress and the Department of Justice. A Fox News crew was also subsequently turned away from what it called a secret hotel where migrants were housed by Casa Alitas.

On Feb. 20, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued El Paso-based migrant shelter Annunciation House for refusing to turn over documents relating to its operations. Paxton accused the shelter of astonishing horrors, including facilitating illegal entry to the United States, alien harboring, human smuggling, and operating a stash house. While a Texas judge has since ruled in favor of Annunciation House, shelter director Ruben Garcia said the suit has caused some volunteers to quit out of fear they could be targeted by the government, according to the Associated Press.

Volunteers and staff at Casa Alitas in Tucson fear for their safety as well, and security at the shelter has been increased, according to Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva. Migrant aid workers who help people in the desert and at the border fence say they also have been subject to increasing threats from armed, anti-immigrant vigilantes.

Whats frightening about them [vigilantes] is they carry guns; we carry water, Gail Kocourek, a volunteer with the Tucson Samaritans, told Tucson.com.

These kinds of attacks should alarm all of us, Tucson-based immigration attorney and human rights activist Isabel Garcia said at a panel discussion at the University of Arizona on Feb. 27. Catholic Social Services [which operates Casa Alitas] is not a radical group.

Adding to the concern, federal funding for Casa Alitas is facing a 20% budget cut under the just-approved congressional budget deal. Casa Alitas Director Diego Pina Lopez says the cut will result in a reduction of staff and services and that street releases of migrants, which are already happening in San Diego and other cities, are expected to begin in Tucson in April.

Arizona Sens. Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema, among other state politicians and community leaders, are calling for additional shelter funding. They contend that helping migrants get access to food, shelter, medical care and transportation is a federal responsibility and a matter of public health and safety  not to mention human decency  that will save money and benefit society in the long run.

Advocates are demanding a stronger defense of vulnerable migrant populations. Garcia has cofounded an organization called Stop the Hate Collective to focus on this issue.

Arizona business and political leaders are also pushing for increased staffing and improved technology at the ports of entry. They say this would allow inspectors to stop more fentanyl from entering the country, most of which is smuggled in through the ports. It also would help stop the smuggling of guns into Mexico, a major source of violence south of the border thats causing people to flee to the United States.

Demonizing migrants, building taller walls and putting up dangerous razor wire, calling for unrealistic mass deportations, busing migrants to cities unprepared to meet them or forcing them to remain in Mexico in unsafe circumstances will not make America safer. Thirty-eight died in a migrant shelter fire in Ciudad Juarez last March, while in recent years thousands have been kidnapped, raped, murdered, drowned or died in the desert.

The only way to make America safer is to provide enough funding so migrants and refugees can be adequately vetted, cared for and resettled in communities that want and need their labor.
State officials are preparing for this years upcoming battle against quagga mussels, and the Idaho State Department of Agriculture now has additional money for the fight, thanks to a $6.6 million funding bill signed by Gov. Brad Little.

Senate Bill 1372, signed last week by Gov. Little, added $6.6 million to increase ISDAs ongoing prevention and monitoring of invasive species and future preparedness for rapid response.

Lloyd Knight, deputy director of the ISDA, said $1.6 million of the appropriations bill will be to focus on the mid-Snake River, including hiring two full-time positions and running three inspection stations.

The remaining $5 million was a one-time transfer into the ISDA budget and will be used to expand the fight of invasive species throughout the state.

An unchecked spread of quagga mussels has the potential to cost Idaho hundreds of millions of dollars in direct and indirect costs. The IDAHO WORKS bill I signed today increases our manpower and resources to keep invasive species out of our precious water, Little said.

Signs of the invasive pest were found last fall near Centennial Falls in the form of veligers, a larval form of the mussel, and a single quagga mussel discovered attached to a rock near Shoshone Falls.

After an aggressive molluscicide treatment on that stretch of river in October, monitoring didnt turn up any live larvae. However, quagga mussels dont reproduce when water temperatures drop below 59 degrees, so ISDA officers werent expecting to find any.

It will be late spring or early summer when water temperatures hit above that mark, and monitoring will resume, along with stressing to river users of the importance of having watercraft, fishing gear and hunting gear hot washed after being on the stretch of river from Pillar Falls to Yingst Grade (broken bridge).

The stretch of river can only be accessed during Centennial Parks regular opening hours from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and all watercraft and other gear, including duck decoys, waders, fishing tackle, traps, life jackets, and any other items that have touched the water must be decontaminated at the hot wash station at Centennial Park Waterfront Park both before and exiting the river.

Decontamination is provided by ISDA at no charge.

A stretch of the Snake River from Twin Falls Dam to Pillar Falls remains off-limits to the public.

Quagga mussels are an extremely invasive species that spread rapidly and can harm irrigation, hydropower, fisheries, agriculture, the recreating public, Idahos critical infrastructure, and private property, and kill off native species of fish and other aquatic wildlife.

The invasive pests clog pipes that deliver water for drinking, energy, agriculture, and recreation.

The added resources from the IDAHO WORKS plan will help Idaho manage the potential crisis aggressively, officials say.
The Idaho prisoner who escaped from custody after a Boise hospital ambush and the man suspected of helping him flee, both of whom are now bein
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Peshawar, Pakistan  Five Chinese nationals working on a major dam construction site were killed along with their driver on Tuesday when a suicide bomber targeted their vehicle in northwest Pakistan, officials said.

Their vehicle plunged into a deep ravine off the mountainous Karakoram Highway after the bomber rammed his car into them and detonated his explosives, police said.

Beijing has poured billions of dollars into Pakistan in recent years, but Chinese-funded projects have sparked resentment and their citizens have frequently come under attack.

Images shared with AFP show smoke rising from the valley, near Besham city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Five Chinese and their local driver were killed in the attack, Muhammad Ali Gandapur, a senior provincial police official, told AFP.

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He said the vehicle was travelling between the Dasu hydroelectric dam site, under construction by the China Gezhouba Group Company, and the capital Islamabad.

Zahid Khan, a senior local police official, told AFP that a suicide bomber crashed his vehicle into theirs.

The vehicle caught fire and plunged down the ravine, he said.

In 2021, a bus carrying engineers to the same construction site was hit by a bomb, killing 13 people including nine Chinese workers.

Tuesdays attack comes days after security forces killed at least seven militants as they attempted to storm the offices of Gwadar Port in southwest Pakistan, considered a cornerstone of Chinese investment.

Militants also killed one soldier as they attempted to storm a major naval air base in the countrys southwest, Pakistans military said Tuesday.

Strategic projects and sensitive sites vital for Pakistans economic progress and the well-being of its people are being targeted as a conscious effort to retard our progress and slow discord between Pakistan and its strategic allies and partners, most notably China, the army said.

The Chinese embassy in Islamabad described the bombing as a terrorist act in a statement reported by Beijings state media.

The Chinese embassy and consulates in Pakistan strongly condemn this terrorist act, and express deep condolences for the victims of both countries and extend sincere sympathies to the families of the victims, the embassy said.

And Beijings foreign ministry urged Pakistan thoroughly investigate the incident as soon as possible, hunt down the perpetrators, and bring them to justice.

We ask Pakistan to take effective measures to ensure the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions in Pakistan, a spokesperson said.

The United States also condemned the attack, with State Department spokesman Matthew Miller saying: No country should suffer acts of terror.

Plotted to disrupt

Beijing is Islamabads closest regional ally, readily providing financial assistance to bail out its often struggling neighbour.

China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners and iron-clad friends, Beijings foreign ministry said.

Any attempt to undermine China-Pakistan cooperation will never succeed, it added.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has seen tens of billions of dollars funnelled into massive transport, energy and infrastructure projects  part of Beijings transnational Belt and Road scheme.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and as well as Pakistans interior and foreign ministers arrived at Chinas embassy in Islamabad within hours of the bombing.

Once again, the adversaries of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) have plotted to disrupt it through such cowardly acts, Sharif said in a statement.

However, they will never succeed in their malevolent ambitions.

Separatist groups say locals see little benefit from major Chinese projects, with most jobs going to outsiders.

The security of Chinese workers has long been of concern to both countries.

The Chinese workers were already scared and feared that another attack was coming, said Azeem Khalid, a Chinese investment expert at COMSATS University Islamabad.

With every such incident, the speed of the project will be slower.

In 2019, gunmen stormed a luxury hotel in Balochistan province overlooking the flagship Chinese-backed deep-water seaport in Gwadar that gives strategic access to the Arabian Sea  killing at least eight people.

In June 2020, Baloch insurgents targeted the Pakistan Stock Exchange, which is partly owned by Chinese companies, in the commercial capital of Karachi.
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Savor the rich and authentic flavors of Spain at Manduca Taberna, the inaugural recipient of the esteemed Restaurants from Spain Certification from the Spanish government.

Silvia Torices de la Varga, economic and commercial counsellor of the Spanish Embassy in the Philippines, presented the certification to Chef Amado Garcia Fernandez at the newly-opened Manduca Taberna branch in One Ayala.

Chef Amado receives the Restaurants from Spain certification from the Spanish Embassy in the Philippines

They go through a very careful supervision in which we check the purity of the products used in the restaurant, the recipes, the idea, the concept to make sure that the experience of Spain that you are looking for is provided here, De la Varga said.

Were very proud of Manduca Taberna for being the first restaurant in the Philippines to receive the Silver seal certification. Our team will continue to do our best to deliver authentic Spanish dining experiences to the country, said Chef Fernandez.

Tuna tartar

The Restaurants from Spain Certification not only celebrates Manducas dedication but also sets a standard for genuine Spanish dining experiences. It is a guarantee that each dish served is a true representation of Spain, elevating culinary expectations.

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To fully experience the authentic flavors of Spain, Manduca Taberna offers a selection of must-try dishes. Dive into the vibrant seafood paella, capturing the essence of Spanish coastal cuisine. Seafood enthusiasts will love the freshness of the tuna tartar, while those craving tradition can indulge in Chef Amados special cachopo Asturiano.

Seafood paella and squid paella

Complete your Spanish culinary journey with Manduca Tabernas tapas, transporting you to Madrids lively Plaza Mayor. Delight in the tender slow cooked lamb shank with piquillo pepper and creamy mashed potatoes.

Slow-cooked lamb shank

With its flagship store at BGC Taguig, located at Ground Floor Commercenter Building, 31st St. cor 4th Ave., and the newly opened doors at One Ayala Mall, Ground Floor, 1 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Manduca Taberna continues to captivate food enthusiasts with their exquisite selection of Spanish delicacies.

[For inquiries or reservations, you can reach Manduca Taberna at 0917.146.4852 (BGC) or 0956.6741978 (One Ayala).]
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Senator Lito Lapid recently distributed assistance to 640 families of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from across Metro Manila.

In a payout conducted Monday, March 18, by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and OFW Partylist in Ayala Malls Paranaque City, the beneficiaries received a total of P2 million from the agencys Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

In a speech during the payout distribution, Lapid said OFWs could be considered living heroes who sacrifice abroad for their loved ones.

The Supremo also thanked OFWs for their great contribution to the economy through their remittances.

Lapid earlier called for an investigation into the reported thousands of missing and abandoned balikbayan boxes of OFWs.

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In his proposed Senate Resolution No. 950, Lapid asked the Senate leadership to immediately act on the problem since it is important to teach a lesson and punish delinquent foreign and local cargo forwarders who cheated on their customers.

Lapid said there should be immediate action on the complaints of OFWs by crafting laws to prevent a recurrence of similar incidents.

The senator was dismayed with these acts of cargo forwarding companies abroad and in the Philippines since it took up to two years before balikbayan boxes were delivered.

This deliberatedly ignored the hard work and sacrifices of our OFWs in working abroad. The delays have also been causing ao many problems to the families of OFWs in the Philippines, he said.

He noted several instances when canned goods were rotten and other cargoes were being destroyed.

Lapid said his office got reports from the Bureau of Customs last Jan. 25 that 16 cargo forwarders did not deliver the balikbayan boxes entrusted to them.

The BOC also reported that in 2023, 11 cases were files against 10 cargo forwarders due to failure to deliver, as they merely abandoned tons of baggages in several warehouses, stocked there from seven months to two years.

It was also reported that some cargoes of OFWs were put up for auction and sold by online sellers. With Macon Ramos-Araneta
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National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said on Wednesday the agency is not aware of any gentlemans agreement that the Philippines entered with China during the Duterte administration regarding the West Philippine Sea.

We are not aware of any gentlemans agreement between China and the Philippines referred to by former secretary Harry Roque, he said in a statement.

The good former secretary should be one to explain to the public his statements since such an agreement, if it exists, infringes and violates our sovereignty as a nation, Malaya added.

Malaya, also National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) spokesperson, was referring to Roques claims that former President Rodrigo Duterte had a verbal agreement with China not to construct and repair Philippine facilities in the WPS, including refraining from sending construction materials for BRP Sierra Madre.

Roque said the agreement does not involve the towing or removal of the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.

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He also admitted the agreement was non-binding on President Marcos.

China has repeatedly claimed that there was an alleged promise to remove or tow away BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. In so far as the NTF-WPS is concerned, we have not seen any document from the former administration that validates or confirms the existence of this so-called gentlemans agreement and the terms of such agreement under the previous administration, Malaya said.

In any case, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has settled the matter that even if such exists, he has rescinded it. Therefore, Chinas repeated reference to such promises serves no purpose as there is no legally binding agreement between the two countries under the Marcos Jr. administration, the NSC official added.

Malaya also said the Philippines has not violated the Declaration of Conduct (DOC) as claimed by China.

As has been seen by the world, the Philippines has acted with self-restraint in the conduct of activities and has not acted to complicate or escalate disputes that affect peace and stability, he said.
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Kemans basks in the afterglow of the success of the recent BeautyCon 2024 held at SMX Manila from March 20 to 23.

With BeautyCon 2024s tagline Journey into Beauty, Kemans, one of the Philippines most-trusted beauty and wellness brands, aspires to accompany every man and woman on their journey of self-awareness and transformation.

Kemans surprised beauty afficionados who dropped by their booth with a free skin analysis via their skin analyzer. This is the first step in determining which products are best-suited for ones skin type.

Con-goers had a blast playing Plinko and getting freebies and loot bags filled with the hottest Kemans products during the event, where all types of Kemans serums were at 50% off, while sunscreens were Buy 1 Take 1.

One of the events highlights was Kemans brand segment with Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, where she talked about participating in pageants, her own journey of transformation and self-discovery, and her first encounter with Kemans, and how she considers Kemans products as her secret weapon even when she competed in the Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador.

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Might I just say, though, that El Salvador was very hot when I was there so I really have to thank Kemans for helping me look fresh all day, because I love their Pit Solution line, so pag kinakabahan ako, hindi halata, says the beauty queen and Kemans endorser.

She went on to say that she first got to use Kemans products during the Miss Universe Philippines pageant in 2023, where Kemans was one of the sponsors.

That was when I realized, especially after winning, that their products were really, really effective. They were light. Hindi nags-stick sa skin mo. Hindi siya malagkit.

Although Michelle, or MMD, as her fans call her, was never into skin care before her pageant days, her showbiz career made her think twice about being more diligent when it comes to taking better care of her skin.

I didnt really grow up knowing skin care. My mom also didnt really advocate about it. It was more, Get out there and get dirty. Until I entered the life of show business. Every day na ako nagme-make up. Every day I have to be in front of harsh lights and uncertain conditions. So, I realized the value of choosing the right skin care routine.

Other Kemans products Michelle swears by are the Kemans Retinol Skin Renew and the Kemans Vitamin C Brightening and Regenerating Serum.

Kemans products are available in store and online at Watsons, and on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. To get the latest updates about Kemans, visit @KemansOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.


Virginia officials scrambled on Tuesday to help neighboring Maryland with maritime commerce disrupted by the early morning collapse of a bridge in Baltimore in the main shipping channel to the city's busy port.

Aubrey Layne, chairman of the board at the Port of Virginia, said the port in Hampton Roads would not be directly affected by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge over the Patapsco River after it was struck by a freight ship early on Tuesday.

But Layne, a former state transportation and finance secretary, said the Virginia port would assist the Port of Baltimore and shipping companies to divert cargo.

"The bottom line is we'll work with them to help them through this," he said. "We have the capacity."

The cargo ship Dali, carrying a Singapore flag, had arrived in Baltimore from Norfolk. The Port of Virginia posted on X that the Dali called at Virginia International Gateway terminal and departed March 22 for Baltimore as its next port of call. It said the ship's call at the terminal and its departure from Norfolk were without incident.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin posted on X Tuesday morning that he had spoken with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and offered Virginia's assistance following the bridge collapse in Baltimore.

I have spoken with @GovWesMoore this morning, and Virginia stands ready to assist and support our neighbor Maryland. Our prayers are with the families affected and the courageous rescue efforts underway following the tragic incident at Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge.  Governor Glenn Youngkin (@GovernorVA) March 26, 2024

Layne said the Virginia port would work with two major railroad companies, Norfolk Southern and CSX Corp., to divert shipped goods that cannot reach the Port of Baltimore, such as imported automobiles.

"To an extent, that gives us options to get cargo up to the Northeast," he said.

CSX said in a statement that customers should anticipate "potential shipment delays" following the bridge collapse in Baltimore.

"While freight traffic has not been entirely halted in the region, certain commodities have been affected by the incident. CSX is actively communicating with customers to provide updates on their shipment statuses as the situation evolves."

CSX said it currently has the capacity to dispatch additional trains to CSX-served coal terminals in Baltimore.

Given that the bridge collapse affects vessel access to the Baltimore port, "all international intermodal shipments destined for Baltimore have been temporarily suspended" and "In-gated traffic originating from other locations and destined for Baltimore is on hold until further notice."

CSX said it is "working with international customers to identify alternative solutions to support cargo movement to and from Baltimore." It noted that "domestic intermodal traffic on CSX destined for local Baltimore remains unaffected."

CSX added that it is committed to keeping customers informed and will provide updates as information becomes available.

Representatives for the Port of Virginia sought to allay concerns that an overflow of ships will now put pressure on the Hampton Roads region.

Joe Harris, a spokesperson for the Port of Virginia, said it is already working with carriers whose plans have been scrambled by the bridge collapse. On Tuesday afternoon, however, he said it was "way too soon" to tell if the tragedy would lead to a backup in Virginia.

"It's very hard to say. We will see more cargo, but how much? It's way too soon to tell," said Harris. He said new demand is unlikely to surge beyond what the port can handle.

Harris said that during Hurricane Sandy, the Port of Virginia saw a similar overflow situation when the storm shuttered the Port of New Jersey. The COVID-19 pandemic also caused backups in Virginia.

"We have a lot of experience in this area. We're confident in our terminals, in our team. And our capability to help out Baltimore however we can," Harris said.

The Port of Virginia recently widened its channel to handle two-way traffic of what are called Ultra Large Container Vessels  ships that can handle twice as much cargo as the Dali. The port can now handle two of these vessels at the same time, one inbound and one outbound.

The Baltimore incident highlights an advantage that the Port of Virginia holds in Hampton Roads, where no overhead bridges obstruct shipping in the deep water harbor that is home to the U.S. Navy and major shipyards. Vehicle traffic crosses the harbor through the Hampton Roads Tunnel and the Monitor-Merrimac tunnel.

"When you have a port where you have an overhead obstruction, you run those risks," Layne said. "In Virginia, you can hit a tunnel, but you don't close a shipping lane."

In February 1977, a 612-foot tanker, the Marine Floridian, lost control of its rudder and rammed the Benjamin Harrison Bridge, which crosses over the James River between Charles City County and Prince George County near Hopewell.

Two drivers whose trucks were on the bridge got out and to safety before the collision. The bridge, completed in 1966, was closed for repairs for 20 months.

Maryland's Key Bridge is part of Interstate 695, a high-speed beltway around Baltimore. The bridge lies between Dundalk and Glen Burnie.

The Baltimore Sun reported that an estimated seven vehicles fell into the river as the bridge collapsed. The collapse does not directly affect traffic to and from Virginia on Interstate 95.

Richmond Times-Dispatch meteorologist Sean Sublette said data from early Tuesday show winds were calm, with no significant waves. The water temperature was 48 degrees at the time of the crash.

So at first glance, it does not look like weather, water or waves were in a factor, but a complete investigation still needs to take place, he said.

At Virginia's state Capitol on Tuesday morning, Democratic leaders held a news conference about the state budget. Del. Luke Torian, D-Prince William, chair of the House Appropriations Committee and a minister, started the gathering by calling for a moment of silence for those affected in Maryland.

Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., was among the Virginia office holders who expressed concerns on social media.

Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-11th, who represents parts of Fairfax and Prince William counties, also expressed solidarity with Virginia's neighbors to the north.

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore is devastating.



My heart is with our neighbors in Maryland today. Thankful for the first responders on the scene.  Tim Kaine (@timkaine) March 26, 2024

Devastating news out of Baltimore this morning with the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Our hearts are with our neighbors in Maryland today.  Rep. Gerry Connolly (@GerryConnolly) March 26, 2024
The German government has given a major boost to Namibias first gigawatt scale green hydrogen project  the $10-billion Hyphen development scheme  by confirming the suitability of the project to be designated as a strategic foreign project.

According to Miningweekly.com, last week, Berlin presented a letter of intent to German energy company Enertrag, confirming the designation of the Hyphen development scheme as strategic foreign project, which renders it eligible to receive targeted support  a status reserved for high-priority global projects of strategic interest to Germany.

Hyphen Hydrogen Energy is a Namibian-registered joint venture between Enertrag and Nicholas Holdings. Observers and experts see the project as paving the way for the development of a large-scale green hydrogen industry across Namibia to support both economic growth in the Southern African country itself and to assist the world in achieving its decarbonization goals.

Hyphen and the Namibian government, which plans to take up a 24% equity stake in the project, aim to start construction in January 2025, with commissioning of the first phase by the end of 2026. When completed, Hyphen is expected to produce 350 000 t of green hydrogen and two-million tons of green ammonia a year, mostly for export.

Germany is supporting the development of a green hydrogen economy in Namibia that is sustainable for the population through hydrogen and Power-to-X cooperation. The Hyphen project is committed to this in a similar way, German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, Robert Habeck, said in a statement.
King Mohammed VI laid, on Tuesday, the foundation stone for a community medical center and launched the 2nd Stage of a connected mobile medical units program in Casablanca.

The two projects reflect the Kings commitment to strengthen the national healthcare system, improve medical services for citizens, consolidate community healthcare services, promote the access of populations, notably in rural areas, to quality basic health services and ensure periodic and regular medical monitoring for people whose health requires specialized consultations.

The Community Medical Center, located in Lissasfa district, requires a 90-million dirhams investment and is the 3rd of its kind in the Casablanca-Settat region, after those built in Sidi Moumen district and the new town of Errahma. The project is an integral part of an action plan led by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity to support the national medical sector, particularly by reinforcing healthcare system in densely populated urban areas.

As an intermediary facility between the network of basic healthcare facilities (levels 1 and 2) and the hospital network, the future Center, which will provide services to some 60,000 people a year, will help alleviate pressure on existing hospital facilities in the region and avoid long-distance journeys to other facilities.

This Community Medical Center will be built within 24 months on an 11,170 m2 site (7,692 m2 covered), and will include units for outpatient consultations and functional explorations, functional rehabilitation, dental care, and community medical emergencies.

It will also include units for primary care, radiology, childbirth and sterilization, as well as a surgery room, a medical analysis laboratory, a hospitalization unit (13 double rooms), a pharmacy, and a kitchen.

Carried out thanks to a partnership between the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity and the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, this project is part of an overall program led by the Foundation that will eventually see the construction of twelve Community Medical Centers: three in Casablanca, two in Fez, two in Tangiers and one in each of Agadir, Marrakech, Rabat, Sale, and Temara.

During the foundation stone laying ceremony, the King followed explanations on the Hospital Information System, an integrated digital system, set up by the Ministry of Health and based on the concept of the patients file that brings together all his data: administrative data, medical file, and care records.

The system, available in both primary care and hospital facilities, is one of the pillars of the national healthcare system overhaul, and enables healthcare professionals to access patient medical data at any time, with the aim of speeding up medical treatment and improving efficiency.

As for the Connected Mobile Medical Unit program whose 2nd stage was launched this Tuesday by the King, it aims to improve rural populations access to high-quality medical services and represents a new intervention model that combines community care and telemedicine.

The first stage of this pilot program, launched by the Sovereign on October 28, 2023, was carried out in partnership between the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, the Ministry of Health, and the service provider MEDIOT Technology.

The Connected Mobile Medical Unit Program  Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity adopts a new qualitative approach aimed at integrating face-to-face general medicine consultations and remote specialized medicine consultations, to bring medical services closer to citizens.

Each connected mobile medical unit comprises a medical block consisting of two multi-purpose consultation and treatment cubicles, equipped with basic medical instruments, medical furniture, connectivity systems and a full range of latest-generation biomedical equipment, which serve as work tools for remote consultations.

Fifty new connected mobile medical units will be deployed under the second stage launched Tuesday.

The center is run by a dedicated team, including a general practitioner, two nurses and an administrative manager, who handle face-to-face general medical consultations, tele-expertise, outpatient care and public health program monitoring.

Resort to tele-expertise is the responsibility of the general practitioner who, when a case requires an opinion or assistance with examinations, calls on a specialist, depending on the specialty required (gynecology-obstetrics, pediatrics, endocrinology, dermatology, ENT, cardiology, pneumology and nephrology), who operates from a central telemedicine platform linked to all the connected mobile medical units.

Up to March 25, the fifty connected mobile medical units deployed in 34 provinces, across nine regions of the Kingdom, as part of the first stage had provided around 120,000 medical services, including more than 96,000 face-to-face general medicine consultations, around 12,000 remote specialized consultations and more than 7,000 nursing clinical examinations.

The King followed a simulation of a tele-expertise carried out by a general practitioner on site, in liaison with specialist doctors at the central telemedicine platform in Casablanca.

On this occasion, the Sovereign symbolically handed over three ambulances and five utility vehicles, donated by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, to representatives of the Adassil, Talat NYacoub and Tizi NTest municipalities, which were affected by the earthquake of September 08, as well as five associations.

This is part of a donation of 46 vehicles for municipalities, associations, and cooperatives in different regions of the Kingdom.
Senegal awakened to a new chapter with the election of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, a former tax inspector and political newcomer who captured the hearts of voters, especially the unemployed youth, with his promise to combat corruption and overhaul the economy. Backed by opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, Fayes victory, despite being released from prison just days before, marks a significant shift in the nations leadership, poised to become its youngest president.

In his inaugural address, Faye reiterated his commitment to transparent governance and fighting corruption, igniting celebrations across the capital. However, the return to normalcy the following day signals the nations readiness to move forward under new leadership. Former Prime Minister Amadou Ba, supported by incumbent President Macky Sall, gracefully conceded defeat, acknowledging Fayes clear lead in preliminary results.

The election, marred by prior unrest stemming from arrests and concerns over presidential term limits, underscores Senegals struggle to maintain its democratic reputation. Fayes anti-establishment stance and promises of economic reform resonated deeply with the populace, particularly the youth grappling with unemployment.

Fayes ascent from a small town to the presidency epitomizes his dedication to public service, exemplified by his early career as a tax inspector and subsequent leadership within the opposition party. While his victory signals potential policy shifts, analysts caution against overly optimistic expectations, citing challenges such as parliamentary dynamics and financial constraints. Nevertheless, Fayes presidency symbolizes a new era for Senegal, marked by hope for a brighter future under his leadership.
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:

Replication of previous results using a predefined time window. (A) Proportion of channels whose ERP signals significance were labeled the same or different by LMEs and separate t-tests. (B) Proportion of channels whose broadband (BB) power signals significance was labeled the same or different by LMEs and separate t-tests. (C) Congruence of results across data types and statistical models. Congruence was lower across data types. (D) Percent of channels labeled as significant by data type and statistical model. (E) Averaged ERP responses for significant channels (blue) vs. non-significant channels (orange) showed biphasic responses as well as sustained activity after image onset. (F) Averaged broadband power responses for significant channels (blue) vs. non-significant channels (orange) showed good onset timing but missed sustained activity after image offset. (G) Averaged ERP responses for category-selective channels (n = 70) showed most category-selectivity occurred within the predefined time window. (H) Averaged ERP responses for novelty-selective channels (n = 26) showed sustained novelty-selectivity after image offset. (I) Averaged ERP responses for channels (n = 6) selective for both category and novelty showed more complicated responses with sustained activity after image offset. *Shaded regions indicate the predefined time window from 100 to 400 ms after image onset. Images disappeared at 400 ms. Credit: NeuroImage (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120557

University of Minnesota Medical School researchers have introduced a new, refined method for analyzing brain signals, enhancing our understanding of brain functionality. This research has the potential to improve treatments for neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, pain, epilepsy and depression. The findings were recently published in NeuroImage.

"This breakthrough provides a more detailed understanding of the brain's complex activity, akin to upgrading from a basic telescope to a sophisticated space observatory," said David Darrow, MD, MPH, an assistant professor at the U of M Medical School, a neurosurgeon with M Health Fairview and senior author. "This innovation could impact various aspects of everyday lifefrom education and mental health to artificial intelligence, paving the way for future technological advancements and a deeper understanding of human cognition."

One of the key findings of this research is the enhanced ability to analyze direct brain recordingsmeaning scientists can now better understand how brain activity correlates to different tasks and behaviors. Additionally, this method allows researchers to directly extract patterns of brain activity over time, revealing how different brain areas process stimuli during tasks such as image identification.

"This research represents a significant advance in our ability to analyze neural signals. It opens up new possibilities for understanding the complex dynamics of the human brain, paving the way for future discoveries in neuroscience," said Alexander Herman, MD, Ph.D., an assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Minnesota Medical School, attending psychiatrist with M Health Fairview and co-senior author.

The research team is working on the next iteration of the platform, which will allow them to decode brain signals and apply strategies for integrating them into medical devices and new treatments.

More information: Seth D Konig et al, Flexible multi-step hypothesis testing of human ECoG data using cluster-based permutation tests with GLMEs, NeuroImage (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120557 Journal information: NeuroImage
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Medi-Cal health coverage kicked in for Antonio Abundis just when the custodian needed it most.

Shortly after Abundis transitioned from limited to full-scope coverage in 2022 under California's expansion of Medi-Cal to older residents without legal immigration status, he was diagnosed with leukemia, a cancer affecting the blood cells. The soft-spoken father of three took the news in stride as his doctor said his blood test suggested his cancer wasn't advanced.

His next steps were to get more tests and formulate a treatment plan with a cancer team at Epic Care in Emeryville. But all of that was derailed when he showed up last July for bloodwork at La Clinica de La Raza in Oakland and was told he was no longer on Medi-Cal.

"They never sent me a letter or anything telling me that I was removed," Abundis, now 63, said in Spanish about losing his insurance.

Abundis is among hundreds of thousands of Latinos who have been kicked off Medi-Cal, California's Medicaid program for low-income people, as states resume annual eligibility checks that were paused at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The redetermination process, as it is known, has disproportionately affected Latinos, who make up a majority of Medi-Cal beneficiaries.

According to the California Department of Health Care Services, more than 653,000 of the more than 1.3 million residents who have been disenrolled over eight months identify as Latino. Some, including Abundis, had only recently gained coverage as the state expanded Medi-Cal to residents without legal residency.

The collision of state and federal policies has not only set off enrollee whiplash but swelled demand for enrollment assistance as people are dropped from Medi-Cal, often for procedural issues. Health groups serving Latino communities report being inundated by requests for help, but at the same time, a state-sponsored survey suggests Hispanic households are more likely than other ethnic or racial groups to lose coverage because they're less knowledgeable of the renewal process. They may also struggle to advocate for themselves.

Some health advocates are pressing for a pause. They warn that disenrollments will not only undercut the state's effort to reduce the number of uninsured but could exacerbate health disparities, particularly for an ethnic group that bore the brunt of the pandemic. One national study found that Latinos in the U.S. were three times as likely to contract COVID and twice as likely to die of it than the general population, in part because they tend to live in more crowded or multigenerational households and work in front-line jobs.

"These difficulties place all of us as a community in this more fragile state where the safety net means even more now," said Seciah Aquino, executive director of the Latino Coalition for a Healthy California, a health advocacy organization.

Assembly member Tasha Boerner, an Encinitas Democrat, has introduced a bill that would slow disenrollments by allowing people 19 and older to keep their coverage automatically for 12 months and extend flexible pandemic-era policies such as not requiring proof of income in certain cases for renewals. That would benefit Hispanics, who make up nearly 51% of the Medi-Cal population compared with 40% of the overall state population. The governor's office said it does not comment on pending legislation.

Tony Cava, a spokesperson for the Department of Health Care Services, said in an email that the agency has taken steps to increase the number of people automatically reenrolled in Medi-Cal and does not consider a pause necessary. The disenrollment rate dropped 10% from November to December, Cava said.

Still, state officials acknowledge more could be done to help people complete their applications. "We're still not reaching certain pockets," said Yingjia Huang, assistant deputy director of health care benefits and eligibility at DHCS.

California was the first state to expand Medicaid eligibility to all qualified immigrants regardless of legal status, phasing it in over several years: children in 2016, young adults ages 1926 in 2020, people 50 and older in 2022, and all remaining adults this year.

But California, like other states, resumed eligibility checks last April, and the process is expected to continue through May. The state is now seeing disenrollment rates return to pre-pandemic levels, or 19%20% of the Medi-Cal population each year, according to DHCS.

Jane Garcia, CEO of La Clinica de La Raza, testified before the Alameda County Board of Supervisors' health committee that disenrollments continue to pose a challenge just as her team tries to enroll newly eligible residents. "It's a heck of a load on our staff," she told supervisors in January.

Although many beneficiaries no longer qualify because their incomes rose, more have been dropped from the rolls for failing to respond to notices or return paperwork. Often, renewal packets were sent to old addresses. Many find out they've lost coverage only upon seeking medical care.

"They knew something was happening," said Janet Anwar, eligibility manager at Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center in the East Bay. "They didn't know exactly what it was, how it was gonna affect them until actually the day came and they were disenrolled. And they were getting checked in or scheduling an appointment, then, 'Hey, you lost your coverage.'"

But reenrollment is a challenge. A state-sponsored survey published Feb. 12 by the California Health Care Foundation found 30% of Hispanic households tried but were unable to complete a renewal form, compared with 19% for white non-Hispanic households. And 43% of Hispanics reported they would like to restart Medi-Cal but did not know how, versus 32% of people in white non-Hispanic households.

The Abundis family is among those who don't know where to get their questions answered. Though Abundis' wife submitted the family's Medi-Cal renewal paperwork in October, his wife and two children who still live with them were able to maintain coverage; Abundis was the only one dropped. He hasn't received an explanation for being disenrolled nor been notified how to appeal or reapply.

Now he worries he may not qualify on his own based on his roughly $36,000 annual income since the limit is $20,121 for an individual but $41,400 for a family of four.

It is likely an eligibility worker could check if he and his family qualify as a household or assist him with signing up for a private plan that can run less than $10 a month for premiums on Covered California. The health insurance exchange allows for special enrollment when people lose Medi-Cal or employer-based coverage. But Abundis assumes he won't be able to afford premiums or copays, so he hasn't applied.

Abundis, who first visited a doctor in May 2022 about unrelenting fatigue, constant pain in his back and knees, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss, worries he's unable to afford medical care. La Clinica de La Raza, the community health clinic where he received blood testing, worked with him that day so he didn't have to pay upfront, but he has since stopped seeking medical care.

More than a year after his diagnosis, Abundis still doesn't know which stage cancer he has, or what his treatment plan should be. Though early cancer detection can lead to a higher chance of survival, some types of leukemia advance quickly. Without further testing, Abundis does not know his outlook.

"I've mentally prepared," Abundis said of his cancer. "What happens, happens."

Even those who seek help run into challenges. Marisol, a 53-year-old immigrant from Mexico who lives in Richmond, California, without legal permission, tried to reestablish coverage for months. Although the state saw a 26% drop in disenrollments from December to January, the share of Latinos disenrolled during that period remained nearly the same, suggesting they face more barriers to renewal.

Marisol, who requested her last name be withheld out of fear of deportation, also qualified for full-scope Medi-Cal during the state expansion to all immigrants 50 and older.

She received a packet in December letting her know that her household income exceeded Medi-Cal's thresholdsomething she believed was an error. Marisol's husband is out of work due to a back injury, she said, and her two children primarily support their family with part-time jobs at Ross Dress for Less.

That month, Marisol visited a Richmond branch office of the Contra Costa County Employment and Human Services Department, hoping to speak to an eligibility worker. Instead, she was told to leave her paperwork and to call a phone number to check her application status. Since then, she made numerous calls and spent hours on hold, but has not been able to speak with anyone.

County officials acknowledged longer wait times due to increased calls and said the average wait time is 30 minutes. "We understand community members' frustration when they have difficulty getting through at times," spokesperson Tish Gallegos wrote in an email. Gallegos noted the call center increases staffing during peak hours.

After El Timpano reached out to the county for comment, Marisol said she was contacted by an eligibility worker, who explained that her family was dropped because their children had filed taxes separately, so the Medi-Cal system determined their eligibility individually rather than as one household. The county reinstated Marisol and her family on March 15.

Marisol said regaining Medi-Cal was a joyous but bittersweet ending to a months-long struggle, especially knowing that other people get dropped for procedural issues. "Sadly, there has to be pressure for them to fix something," she said.

2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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slc43a2+ T cells differentiate and mature in spleen and are then transported to brain to trigger the production of cytokines involved in antiviral strategies against RGNNV. Credit: Science China Press

It is currently unclear where T cells in the brains of teleosts originate from. While viewing the central nervous system (CNS) as immune privileged has been widely accepted, previous studies suggest that T cells residing in the thymus but not in the spleen of the teleost play an essential role in communicating with the peripheral organs.

A recent study published in the journal Science China Life Sciences was led by Prof. Qiwei Qin (College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University) and Prof. Qiang Lin (CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-Resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences).

In the research, Qing Wang, together with lab director Qiwei Qin, identified nine T cell subpopulations, and found that Slc43a2+T cell subsets significantly expanded in the spleen and brain after virus infection, suggests that Slc43a2+T cells in brain and spleen may be homologous.

Yali Liu and Jiang Han, together with lab director Qiang Lin, used the zebrafish model with spleen deficiency and found the absence of spleen resulted in the lack of Slc43a2+T cells in the brain, suggesting that Slc43a2+T cells in the brain came from the spleen tissue.

The team using single-cell transcriptomic analysis indicated that slc43a2+T cells mature and functionally differentiate within the spleen and then migrate into the brain to trigger an immune response. This study sheds light on a novel migratory pathway of T cells from the spleen to mediate the brain immune response to infection in fish.

More information: Qing Wang et al, Slc43a2+ T cell metastasis from spleen to brain in RGNNV infected teleost, Science China Life Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s11427-023-2473-x Journal information: Science China Life Sciences
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Community mental health nurses based at GP surgeries can significantly improve patient outcomes, a new study shows.

The research led by Staffordshire University examined anonymized data of over 1,500 patients at a primary care mental health service in North Staffordshire, United Kingdom.

It follows an NHS initiative to move community mental health teams away from the traditional secondary care service model, to work within new multidisciplinary primary care teams based around doctor's practices that serve smaller neighborhoods.

A crucial factor affecting integration was a shared IT system, which ensured a coordinated patient journey through treatment, aided by training sessions for all mental health professionals on the different clinical IT systems and each other's roles.

Patients in the study were treated over a period of three years by mental health nurses delivering targeted psychological interventions for a range of mental health problems.

The research found that:

Self-rated scores for mood and anxiety pre-treatment and post-treatment demonstrated that both symptom severity and functioning improved significantly by the end of treatment.

92% of the patients remained within the primary care mental health service throughout treatment, reducing the burden on secondary care mental health services.

67% of patients in employment returned to work from statutory sick pay and 5% of unemployed patients returned to work by the end of treatment.

4% of patients moved off psychotropic medication (accounting for those who also started medication during the study period).

"The movement of community mental health nurses into services alongside physical health care practitioners aims to create a single point of access and assessment for all mental health problems. However, there is currently little evidence or guidance on how this integration should be implemented or on the effectiveness of mental health nurses in these settings," commented lead researcher Dr. Mark Kenwright.

"This is the first large-scale study to record the impact of community mental health nurses integrated into primary care teams."

"We were surprised by how much improvement patients were making because different providers and lines of accountability can be a barrier to this in multidisciplinary primary care teamsbut that is what this model has achieved."

The lack of guidance on how to best integrate mental health services is compounded in the UK by a move to 'practice-based commissioning', where primary care physicians now commission services for their own practices from a range of different providers.

As a result of this, three different mental health worker roles now compete for provision in primary care: mental health nurses employed directly by GP practices, psychological therapists commissioned through the 'Improving access to psychological therapies' program, and mental health nurses provided by NHS mental health trusts.

"It's really important that when people have a mental health problem and are in distress, they can see one person and tell their story just once and be booked in with the right person who will deliver the right evidence-based treatment for their problem. It's surprising how difficult it is to make that work in today's NHS system."

Mark added, "This research importantly shows that you can achieve integration and that when done effectively, community mental health nurses can deliver vital treatment that moves people towards recovery and significantly improves their well-being."

The work is published in the International Journal of Nursing Studies Advances.

More information: Mark Kenwright et al, Effectiveness of community mental health nurses in an integrated primary care service: An observational cohort study, International Journal of Nursing Studies Advances (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnsa.2024.100182
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Gene expression changes in SCA6 cerebellum at disease onset. (a) Timeline of disease progression in SCA6 mouse model. (b) Cerebellar vermis tissue was extracted from male and female WT and SCA6 mice (N = 5 per genotype) for sequencing. (c) RNA sequencing revealed 513 DEGs in SCA6 compared to WT (Padj < 0.05). Each column of the heatmap represents an animal, each row represents a gene. Refer to Supplementary Table 1 for complete list of genes. (d) Volcano plot shows the distribution of fold changes of the disrupted genes in SCA6. Colored markers represent significant genes, gray markers are non-significantly changed genes. Credit: Acta Neuropathologica (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s00401-023-02680-z

Imagine being middle aged and starting to feel that you are off balance a lot and that you are having a hard time coordinating your movements. Those are among the symptoms of Spinocerebellar ataxia type 6, known as SCA6, a rare neurodegenerative disease that typically appears in adulthood and worsens over time.

Over time, other problems, such as slurred speech and difficulty seeing or seeing double, may also appear. It is estimated that fewer than 5,000 people in the US have the condition, which is the result of genetic mutations in the cerebellum.

The disease currently has no cure. But this may change, thanks to a new discovery made by McGill researchers.

In a recent article in Acta Neuropathologica, researchers from McGill University, led by Professor Alanna Watt of the Department of Biology, describe a discovery, that suggests possible paths towards new treatments.

They have been able to show that damaged mitochondria in the cells of the cerebellum, the part of the brain that plays a role in movement and balance but also in cognitive functions such as language and attention, most likely contribute to the progression of the disease.

"Mitochondria are commonly known as cell powerhouses because they generate the energy the cell needs to function," said Sophia Leung, a Ph.D. student in the Watt lab and the paper's first author. "When we looked at a mouse model of SCA6, we observed that the mitochondria were failing to generate that crucial power. What's more, we found that the power outages were worsening as the disease worsened."

The researchers also found that observations of human post-mortem tissue corroborated what they had found in mice, which suggests that this finding is relevant to human disease.

"It's an exciting finding because it suggests a promising new treatment target for patients living with this disease," adds Alanna Watt, the senior author of the paper.

More information: Tsz Chui Sophia Leung et al, Mitochondrial damage and impaired mitophagy contribute to disease progression in SCA6, Acta Neuropathologica (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s00401-023-02680-z
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Planes, trains, boats, automobiles and even feet. During the past decades and centuries, global travel and human migration have made all of us more worldlyfrom our broadening awareness of the world beyond our birthplaces, to our more sophisticated palates, to our immune systems that are increasingly challenged by unfamiliar bacteria and viruses.

In the elderly, these newly imported pathogens can gain the upper hand frighteningly quickly. Unfortunately, however, vaccination in this age group isn't as effective as it is in younger people.

Now a study conducted in mice by Stanford Medicine and the National Institute of Health's Rocky Mountain Laboratories provides tantalizing evidence that it may one day be possible to rev up an elderly immune system with a one-time treatment that modulates the composition of a type of immune cell.

The treatment significantly improved the ability of geriatric animals' immune systems to tackle a new virus head on, as well as to respond vigorously to vaccinationenabling them to fight off a new threat months later.

"This is a real paradigm shiftresearchers and clinicians should think in a new way about the immune system and aging," said postdoctoral scholar Jason Ross, MD, Ph.D. "The idea that it's possible to tune the entire immune system of millions of cells simply by affecting the function of such a rare population is surprising and exciting."

Ross and Lara Myers, Ph.D., a research fellow at Rocky Mountain Laboratories, are the lead authors of the study, which is published in Nature. Irving Weissman, MD, professor of pathology and of developmental biology, and Kim Hasenkrug, Ph.D., the chief of Rocky Mountain Laboratories' Retroviral Immunology Section, are the senior authors of the research.

A shift in the immune system

The targeted cells are a subset of what's known as hematopoietic stem cells, or HSCs. HSCs are the granddaddies of the immune system, giving rise to all the other types of blood and immune cells including B and T cells, which are collectively known as lymphocytes. As we age, our HSCs begin to favor the production of other immune cells called myeloid cells over lymphocytes. This shift hampers our ability to fully react to new viral or bacterial threats and makes our response to vaccination much less robust than that of younger people.

"Older people just don't make many new B and T cell lymphocytes," said Weissman, who is the Virginia and D.K. Ludwig Professor in Clinical Investigation in Cancer Research.

"During the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, it quickly became clear that older people were dying in larger numbers than younger people. This trend continued even after vaccinations became available. If we can revitalize the aging human immune system like we did in mice, it could be lifesaving when the next global pathogen arises."

Weissman was the first to isolate HSCs in mice and humans in the late 1980s. In the years since, he and his colleagues have investigated the molecular minutiae of these cells, painstakingly tracing the complicated relationships among the scores of cell types that arise in their wake.

Some of these descendants make up what's known as the adaptive immune system: highly specialized B and T lymphocytes that each recognize just one particular three-dimensional structureperhaps a pointy bit here or a telltale knobby clump therethat betrays an invading virus or bacteria.

Like trained assassins once they spot their mark, B lymphocytes churn out antibodies that latch onto the telltale structures and target infected or foreign cells for destruction, while various subtypes of T lymphocytes either demolish infected cells or raise a hue and cry to summon other immune cells to finish off the enemy.

The specificity of the B and T lymphocytes allows the immune system to have memory; once you've been exposed to a specific invader, the body reacts swiftly and decisively if that same pathogen is seen again. This is the basic concept behind vaccinationtrigger an initial response to a harmless mimic of a dangerous bacteria or virus.

In response, the lymphocytes that recognize the invader not only give rise to cells that eliminate the infection but also generate long-lived memory B and T cells that, in some cases, can last a lifetime. Thus, the system is primed when the threat becomes real.

Another key part of our immune system is called innate immunity, and it's much less discriminating. In the blood, it's run by a class of cells called myeloid cells. Like school janitors, these cells scour the body, gobbling up any unfamiliar cells or bits of detritus. They also trigger inflammatory responses, which recruit other cells and chemicals to infected sites. Inflammation helps the body protect itself against invaders, but it can be a major problem when triggered inappropriately or over-enthusiastically, and aging has been linked to chronic inflammation in humans.

An evolutionary disadvantage

Ross and Weissman knew from previous research that during aging, the number of HSCs that make balanced proportions of lymphocytes and myeloid cells decline, while those that are myeloid-biased increase their numbers. This favors the production of myeloid cells.

Early in human history, when people rarely left their birthplace and lived shorter lives, this gradual change probably had no consequences (it may even have been favorable) because people were likely to encounter all their surrounding pathogens by young adulthood and be protected by their memory lymphocytes. But now it's distinctly disadvantageous.

The researchers wondered if they could tilt the balance back toward a younger immune system by depleting myeloid-leaning HSCs and allowing the more balanced HSCs to replace them.

Their hunch was correct. Mice between 18 and 24 months old (doddering in the mouse world) that were treated with an antibody targeting the myeloid-leaning HSCs for destruction had more of the balanced HSCsand more new, naive B and T lymphocytesthan their untreated peers even several weeks later.

"These new, naive lymphocytes provide better immune coverage for novel infections like those humans increasingly encounter as our world becomes more global," Weissman said. "Without this renewal, these new infectious agents would not be recognized by the existing pool of memory lymphocytes."

The treatment also reduced some negative outcomes like inflammation that can arise when an elderly immune system grapples with a new pathogen.

"Not only did we see a shift toward cells involved in adaptive immunity, but we also observed a dampening in the levels of inflammatory proteins in the treated animals," Ross said. "We were surprised that a single course of treatment had such a long-lasting effect. The difference between the treated and untreated animals remained dramatic even two months later."

When the treated animals were vaccinated eight weeks later against a virus they hadn't encountered before, their immune systems responded more vigorously than untreated animals, and they were significantly better able to resist infection by that virus. (In contrast, young mice used as controls passed all the challenges with flying colors.)

"Every feature of an aging immune systemfunctional markers on the cells, the prevalence of inflammatory proteins, the response to vaccination and the ability to resist a lethal infectionwas impacted by this single course of treatment targeting just one cell type," Ross said.

Finally, the researchers showed that mouse and human myeloid-biased HSCs are similar enough that it may one day be possible to use a similar technique to revitalize aging human immune systems, perhaps making a person less vulnerable to novel infections and improving their response to vaccination.

"We believe that this study represents the first steps in applying this strategy in humans," Ross said.

The study also has interesting implications for stem cell biology and the way HSCs rely on biological niches, or specific neighborhoods of cells, for their longevity and function throughout our lives.

"Most people in immunology have believed that you lose these kinds of tissue-specific stem cells as you grow older," Weissman said. "But that is completely wrong. The problems arise when you start to favor one type of HSC over another. And we've shown in mice that this can be reversed. This finding changes how we think about stem cells during every stage of aging."

More information: Irving Weissman, Depleting myeloid-biased haematopoietic stem cells rejuvenates aged immunity, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07238-x. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07238-x Yasar Arfat T. Kasu et al, Anti-ageing antibodies revive the immune system, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/d41586-024-00680-x , doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00680-x Journal information: Nature
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Inappropriate diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in hospitalized adults is common, especially among older adults and those with dementia, according to a study published online March 25 in JAMA Internal Medicine.

Ashwin B. Gupta, M.D., from the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System in Michigan, and colleagues conducted a prospective cohort study to characterize inappropriate diagnosis of CAP in hospitalized patients across 48 Michigan hospitals. Hospitalized patients treated for CAP between July 1, 2017, and March 31, 2020, were retrospectively assessed.

The researchers found that 12.0% of the 17,290 hospitalized patients treated for CAP met criteria for inappropriate diagnosis, and of these, 87.6% received full antibiotic courses. Patients inappropriately diagnosed were older (adjusted odds ratio, 1.08 per decade) and were more likely to have dementia or altered mental status on presentation (adjusted odds ratios, 1.79 and 1.75, respectively) compared with patients with CAP.

The 30-day composite outcomes for full versus brief antibiotic treatment did not differ among those inappropriately diagnosed. Compared with brief duration of antibiotic treatment (no more than three days), full antibiotic treatment was associated with antibiotic-associated adverse events (2.1 versus 0.4%).

"Risks of inappropriate diagnosis are not uniform across populationsalready highly vulnerable groups are at highest risk of inappropriate diagnosis. These same vulnerable populations are also most likely to be affected by antibiotic-associated adverse events and resulting morbidity," the authors write. "Thus, balancing harms of underdiagnosis and overdiagnosis of CAP remains essential."

More information: Ashwin B. Gupta et al, Inappropriate Diagnosis of Pneumonia Among Hospitalized Adults, JAMA Internal Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.0077 Journal information: JAMA Internal Medicine

2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
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Sleeping fewer than seven hours is associated with a higher risk of developing high blood pressure over time, according to a study presented at the American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session.

While the association between sleep patterns and high blood pressure has been reported, evidence about the nature of this relationship has been inconsistent, according to researchers.

The current analysis pools data from 16 studies conducted between January 2000 and May 2023, evaluating hypertension incidence in 1,044,035 people from six countries who did not have a prior history of high blood pressure over a median follow-up of five years (follow-up ranged from 2.4 to 18 years).

Short sleep duration was significantly associated with a higher risk of developing hypertension after adjusting for demographic and cardiovascular risk factors, including age, sex, education, BMI, blood pressure, smoking status etc. Furthermore, the association was found to be even stronger for those getting less than five hours of sleep.

"Based on the most updated data, the less you sleepthat is less than seven hours a daythe more likely you will develop high blood pressure in the future," said Kaveh Hosseini, MD, assistant professor of cardiology at the Tehran Heart Center in Iran and principal investigator of the study.

"We saw a trend between longer sleep durations and a greater occurrence of high blood pressure, but it was not statistically significant. Getting seven to eight hours of sleep, as is recommended by sleep experts, may be the best for your heart too."

The study found that sleeping less than seven hours was associated with a 7% increased risk of developing high blood pressure, which spiked to 11% when reported sleep duration was less than five hours. By comparison, diabetes and smoking are known to heighten one's risk of hypertension by at least 20%, Hosseini said.

While the study did not look at why this might be the case, Hosseini said that disrupted sleep could be to blame. For example, he said lifestyle habits or comorbid conditions such as overeating, alcohol use, nightshift work, certain medication use, anxiety, depression, sleep apnea or other sleep disorders may be factors.

Researchers were surprised there were no age-based differences in the association between sleep duration and hypertension given that sleep patterns tend to shift with age. The age of the participants ranged from 35.4 years to 60.9 years and more than half (61%) were female. When compared with men, females who reported less than seven hours of sleep had a 7% greater risk of developing high blood pressure.

"Getting too little sleep appears to be riskier in females," Hosseini said. "The difference is statistically significant, though we are not sure it's clinically significant and should be further studied. What we do see is that lack of good sleep patterns may increase the risk of high blood pressure, which we know can set the stage for heart disease and stroke."

It's important for people to talk with their health care team about their sleep patterns, especially if they have disrupted sleep that might be due to obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea has been tied to higher rates of high blood pressure, stroke and coronary artery disease.

This study has several limitations, including that sleep duration was based on self-reported questionnaires, so changes in sleep duration over the follow-up period were not assessed. Moreover, there were variations in how short sleep duration was defined between the studies (fewer than five or six hours).

"Further research is required to evaluate the association between sleep duration and high blood pressure using more accurate methods like polysomnography, a method for evaluating sleep quality more precisely," Hosseini said. "Moreover, the variations in reference sleep duration underline the need for standardized definition in sleep research to enhance the comparability and generalizability of findings across diverse studies."

More information: Aayushi Sood, MD, lead author and medical resident at The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, presents the study, "Sleep Duration and Hypertension Incidence: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis," on Sunday, April 7.
At 2:30 a.m. every morning, about two dozen workers show up to a giant new Amazon warehouse outside of Missoula to sort through between 7,000 and 10,000 packages and get them ready to be delivered in the area. Its organized chaos, with a very refined and precise system thats been honed over the years to maximize efficiency.

On Wednesday morning, Gov. Greg Gianforte, Missoula County Commissioner Dave Strohmaier and other city officials were in town for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new 72,000-square-foot delivery station. Its the first operational facility in Montana for Amazon, which is the worlds largest online retailer and the second largest retailer behind Walmart. Amazon reported over $574 billion in sales in 2023, a 12% jump over the previous year.

The facility hired about 100 workers employed by Amazon and supports another 80 third-party contractors who drive the packages to customers within a 50-mile radius in all directions.

Its a great day to welcome Amazon to the Treasure State, Gianforte said. Its created 100 good-paying jobs here in Montana. Were thrilled Amazon has recognized Montanas business-friendly environment, our unmatched quality of living, which with that internal policy of letting people transfer anywhere, they may all transfer to Montana. So this facility will provide Montanans with more access to better jobs.

Gianforte noted that workers at the company have lots of potential for promotions and that the huge warehouse was built by local contractors, including Dick Anderson Construction, P.E.T.E.S. Electric, Temp Right Service, True North Steel, Cushing Terrell, Sterling Commercial Real Estate and DCI Engineers.

Our state is made stronger when companies like Amazon choose to do business here, Gianforte continued.

Gianforte said his administration has pushed through tax cuts and upgraded incentives for businesses to relocate to Montana. He also said one of his main goals was to cut government rules to make a more business-friendly climate.

We had to recognize the regulatory regime we had here was really a wet blanket on business, Gianforte said. And we went to work for red tape relief efforts to pull those regulations back and have now eliminated or streamlined 20% of all the regulations in the state. We want to make sure we protect public safety and the environment but the excess, we can get rid of that. And every employer also needs a strong workforce. And thanks to the pro-work policies, we have more people working in Montana than ever before.

The Amazon facility has been open and delivering packages since October. Sam Bailey, an economic development policy manager at Amazon, said the company conducted studies on both the consumer demand and the workforce in Missoula before deciding to put its first delivery station in the state here. A building permit for the warehouse shows that the construction cost was around $8 million.

Strohmaier said the county government and county voters have chosen to invest in infrastructure and amenities, which in turn attracts workers and businesses. He said Missoulas quality of life, amenities and access to the outdoors makes it attractive.

He also said that less sexy behind-the-scenes works, such as zoning, creating growth plans and making land use decisions, also makes Missoula County attractive to businesses and sets the table for facilities like the Amazon warehouse to be constructed.

Were also in a Targeted Economic Development District, which allows investment of tax dollars in infrastructure in this place, he said. And were it not for some of those tools, I would hazard a guess that this site would not be nearly as attractive for investors generally and a job-creator such as Amazon as it has been.

Ellyza Stuart, 22, has been working for the contractor that manages the people who drive the Amazon delivery vans around town. She said shes been enjoying the job and shes very happy with the pay.

I love it, she said. Its super fun. I get to meet a lot of random people and most of them are super nice.

An Amazon representative said that wages at the Missoula warehouse start at $17 an hour and can go up to $19.40 an hour. The hiring website Indeed said that a driver for an Amazon delivery service partner can make $21-$24 an hour depending on experience.

Amazon's website states that warehouse associates need to be able to lift up to 49 pounds and use carts, dollies, hand trucks and other gear to move items around.

The warehouse marks a transition point for the makeup of the area's economy.

Missoula County will lose about 250 jobs this spring because two wood products businesses, Pyramid Mountain Lumber in Seeley Lake and Roseburg Forest Products' Missoula plant, both announced they're shutting down permanently.
Missoula's Clark Fork Farmers Market will likely return to its previous location east of Caras Park after a city committee unanimously approved the move Wednesday.

The market is one of several that take over downtown on Saturdays from May to October. Kaylee Nassiri, the market's executive director, said the move will benefit people with mobility issues and also expand the number of vendors.

"The other areas we were using did not really have a good drop off place for people who are disabled," Nassiri said. Among other benefits would be better trash collection and general safety for pedestrians.

The market moved from Pattee Street to the other side of Caras Park in 2020, when NorthWestern Energy reconstructed its downtown power station.

While the market has continued to operate, Nassiri said the former location has a better layout for live musicians and access to local businesses up the street.

The market only allows local agriculture and food products, Nassiri said.

"We do highlight only agricultural goods and local businesses," Nassiri said. "Who would that be? Only western Montana vendors that are producing local products or cultivating local products."

The Public Safety, Health and Operations Committee unanimously approved the request, and it will likely be approved by the council next week on April 1. The first market is set for May 4.

The committee also unanimously approved the surplus auction of five fire department vehicles, including three trucks, a water tanker and a utility vehicle.
Gladstone brought the Blackfoot language to the world stage. Heres why that matters.

By: Nora Mabie

okii niiksokowaiks nittaanikkoo piitaakii (no)motootoo siksikaitsiittupii... nittsiikaakomimm.

Hello my relatives, my name is Eagle Woman. I arrived here from the Blackfoot Confederacy.  I love yall!

Thats what Blackfeet Actress Lily Gladstone said in her Golden Globes acceptance speech  first in Blackfoot and then in English  when she made history as the first Indigenous woman to win best actress.

Robert Hall, director of Blackfeet studies at Browning Public Schools, said when Gladstone spoke Blackfoot on the world stage, two things happened.

Some Blackfeet individuals watched the show live and translated Gladstones words to their families.

Other community members, Hall said, watched and didnt know what Gladstone said. Later, they felt inspired to learn and translate her words.

Thats powerful, too, he explained.

From the 1800s to the 1970s, Native children were taken from their homes and forced to attend government-funded Christian boarding schools, where they were emotionally, physically and sexually abused. The explicit mission of these schools was cultural genocide, and tribes like the Blackfeet suffered language and culture loss as a result.

Hall said hardly anyone grows up speaking Blackfoot as their first language anymore. Its why, he says, language revitalization is more important now than ever.

We have to be innovative, he said. If were not innovative, were going to die.  Our language is on its deathbed. We cant wait to give it medicine.

Innovate is exactly what Hall has done as he works to create an accessible Blackfoot language rubric.

Hall has a document with thousands of Blackfoot words and counting. In it, he breaks the words down, color coding their syntactic structures.

Prior to this work, Hall said it was common practice for people to spell Blackfoot words however they wanted.

Reading and writing was introduced to us in a violent way  through boarding schools and treaties, Hall explained. So we dont have the greatest trust in reading and writing. And a lot of us think that its a white mans way.  Well say, We dont need that white way  spell it the way you want.

But Hall argues that this methodology not only does a disservice to language learners but also undermines the integrity of the language itself.

Can you imagine reading a book and the same word is spelled different on each page? he asked.

Hall said Piikani, a word referring to a band within the Blackfoot Confederacy, for example, has been phonetically spelled: Bee-gun-knee.

But the silent k in knee, Hall says, exposes how English can infiltrate a Native language.

When you read this, now youre using the English part of your brain, he explained.

Tanner Ironpipe, a senior at Browning High School, said when he first started learning Blackfoot, he was taught to focus on phonetics  paying more attention to how words sound than how they are spelled. Now, he helps Hall develop this new rubric, focusing on spelling and word structure.

We need a writing system, the 17-year-old student said. In fourth and fifth grade, I just memorized words. Now I understand how the language is built. This is important. This is our main way we can express our own culture.
A nonprofit that has administered job and training programs for low-income people in Butte and five surrounding counties says it is closing after 38 years because of the states move to a single, corporate provider.

Career Futures doesnt have a closing date yet but says nine full-time employees and one part-time worker will lose their jobs and dozens of families who receive services will have to work with the for-profit company Maximus US Services.

Sarah De Money, executive director of Career Futures, said Monday she talked to Maximus about the possibility of sub-contracting services but it cant mesh its case-management and other operations with the companys plans.

She says she shared reasons for the closing with staff, legislators and the Career Futures board. Career Training Institute, a nonprofit that provides similar services in Helena, said last week it is closing after 41 years.

Bottom line  it is not financially feasible to sub-contract and it is not within our Mission Statement to work with clients in the manner Maximus intends to, De Money wrote.

It is with a sad heart that we have to close and dissolve the organization. Please know, we fought the best we could and we made an earnest effort in talking with Maximus.

She said shes waiting for the Montana Department of Health and Human Services, or DPHHS, to provide transition plans before she announces a closing date.

Approximately 45 to 50 families will have to work with Maximus as that is the current number (of clients) we are serving now, De Money told The Montana Standard on Monday. This number fluctuates throughout the year.

DPHHS disclosed last summer it was moving to a single, statewide vendor to oversee job programs for people receiving money through Temporary Assistance to Needy Families and food vouchers through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The assistance comes with work and/or training requirements and for years now, 12 nonprofit organizations in Montana  including Career Futures and CTI  have administered the programs locally and regionally.

DPHHS recently announced it had chosen Maximus to oversee the multi-million dollar system statewide, saying the move would reinvigorate programs that put more Montanans back to work and drive their self-sufficiency.

Through a new and innovative pay-for-performance model, our ultimate goal is to help our clients find secure and sustainable employment and increase their independence, DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton said on the agencys website.

A group of Democrat state lawmakers joined De Money at a news conference in Butte last month and said Gianfortes outsourcing decision could cut 100 jobs at local nonprofit agencies and restrict access to people in need.

The governors decision to abandon the local, community-based nonprofits and instead opt for a distant, for-profit Virginia company will close these nonprofits in many cases and harm families across Montana, state Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers, D-Belgrade, said then.

He said it was his understanding that Maximus would only have physical offices in Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, Helena and Missoula. Offices operated in 14 or 15 other communities could be closed and its services provided by Maximus digitally and by phone, he said.

DPHHS told The Standard Tuesday night that Maximus will operate 21 "physical service centers" in Montana and additonal "pop-up locations to ensure convenient and consistent access for clients."

The pysical locations include "urban centers" in Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, Helena and Missoula and 16 additional non-urban service centers in Butte, Browning, Cut Bank, Glasgow, Glendive, Hamilton, Hardin, Havre, Lame Deer, Lewistown, Libby, Kalispell, Miles City, Polson, Sidney and Wolf Point.

"The days and hours of operation of the non-urban service centers will be determined by caseload size and client needs," DPHHS said in an email.

"All service centers will offer services through a mix of in-person, virtual and digital platforms," it said. "The Department, through Maximus, is embracing a modern service delivery model that meets Montanans where they are, in part through technology solutions, and ensures that all clients have access to comparable, high-quality sevices regardless of where they live."

In response to CTIs announced closing in Helena last week, DPHHS told the Independent Record it works with local providers to meet the needs of TANF and SNAP recipients. It provided that same statement to The Standard.

Maximus has already reached out to every current provider, as well as other nonprofits, the statement said. They continue to welcome opportunities to meet with any community organization that is interested in subcontracting with them.

Maximus is confident they will have several subcontracts both with some current providers and some new organizations that are in Montana, but not part of the current program.

De Money said she talked to the company and it plans to have one case manager for every 35 clients, which she says is unrealistic. She told her board and staff that Maximus plans would not help keep Career Futures open.

Maximus will not have an office, will co-locate (we are thinking for free) somewhere like the Job Service or OPA, and will probably not go to our outlying counties as they have talked about having meetings by phone or online, she wrote.

There will not be any in-person job readiness training, fiscal management classes, or soft skills training  this would be done completely online through Maximus client portal.

Jasyn Harrington, executive director of CTI in Helena, said it didnt apply for the single state contract because it couldnt provide services to all 56 counties in Montana and a pay-for performance model was not doable for a nonprofit agency.

She said Maximus has indicated plans for a physical presence in Helena but she has no details about that. But after meeting with Maximus representatives, she said it was apparent that subcontracting was not feasible. CTI has 19 employees.

We have literally helped thousands of community members to improve their lives, Harrington wrote in a letter to community partners. I, and many others, have great concerns regarding the new service delivery model DPHHS has chosen and its potential devastating impact on clients.

DPHHS expects the transition of clients and files to occur between April and June, Harrington said.
The first nurse-midwife program in the state will launch in August at Montana State University, giving practitioners the opportunity to take on a specialty and improve maternal health care in their communities.

Starting this August, eight to 10 practicing nurses will begin a three-year, full-time program to become nurse-midwives. The degree will focus on increasing maternal health care access in rural and tribal communities.

The beauty of (this) is that we are educating nurses in place, said Mariah Hill, an assistant clinical professor at MSU who leads the program. The idea is that we are finding nurses who are already embedded, rooted in these communities and getting them additional education.

Over half of Montana counties are classified as maternity care deserts, according to a report from nonprofit March of Dimes, which means there are no hospitals that provide obstetric care, no birth centers, no OB/GYN doctors and no certified midwives. Only four other states have a greater share of counties without maternal health care.

Outcomes for parents and babies show the consequences of this landscape.

Montana has the sixth-highest maternal mortality rate in the United States with a maternal morbidity rate  when severe complications arise for the woman giving birth  35% higher than the national average. Disparities are especially severe among rural and tribal communities. Native American infants in Montana are three times more likely to die than non-Native newborns, and rural residents chances of facing complications during pregnancy are double that of women who live in the states few higher-density areas.

Women are often forced to drive long distances on rural roads or brave inclement weather to reach adequate health care. This might require taking time off work or finding replacement caregivers for children and relatives. When thats not possible, people are often forced to deprioritize prenatal care altogether.

This program will really expand the scope of practice, the type of work that we can bring to rural communities to provide this really critical piece, said Maggie Thorsen, an MSU associate professor who focuses on health care equity.

Nurse-midwives deliver babies for low-risk pregnancies, and they work closely with OB/GYNs in higher risk scenarios or when a C-section is required. They provide extensive prenatal care and postnatal care that would otherwise be inaccessible. Research shows that receiving regular care during a pregnancy improves the health of the parent and baby.

We think of midwifery as birth providers, but thats just one piece of the puzzle, Hill said. Most of our births in Montana do happen at a major hospital. The hope is that we are bringing perinatal, postpartum, contraceptive and mental health care right there at home. They may still have to travel three hours for their birth, but at least all those earlier visits are within reach.

Access to maternal health care in tribal communities

A major focus will be expanding access within tribal communities, where many people have experienced harmful interactions with the health care system thats caused lingering distrust.

Janelle Palacios grew up on the Flathead Reservation. She has specific memories of her friends becoming pregnant when they were teenagers, and knowing, even then, that my friends were not treated well where they went for care.

When Palacios first saw what maternal health care looked like off the reservation when visiting a birthing center in Washington state, it changed things for her almost instantaneously. The birth I knew happened in a very sterile, very stern, very icy, unfriendly institute, she said.

Today, she works as a midwife in California, where Palacios incorporates Indigenous caretaking practices into her clinical work as well as into her instruction of OB/GYN residents.

The knowledge that we use today is rooted in human practices, and its only today that we have the so-called scientific tools to measure what we have known for millennia, she said. This is not new information, it just happens to be new to the so-called evidence of science, but its something that has been passed on and carried."

Palacios takes seriously her identity as a Native health care provider, and the impact she could have on patients and people who come from historically marginalized groups.

When you have an opportunity to see someone who looks like you, talks like you, comes from a similar background as you, there is a familiarity and trust thats already built-in because youre coming from a place of understanding, she said. "Who knows, there might be a young kid who saw someone like me who spoke like and who inspired them.

MSU's existing initiative, called Caring for Our Own Program (CO-OP), bolsters support for Native American students studying nursing. It provides tailored counseling, financial aid and other resources. There are over 130 CO-OP alums living in Montana, and the director has been actively reaching out to these nurses to encourage them to consider the nurse-midwife program so they can serve Native families in this way.

Additionally, all registered nurses in the state of Montana received an email from MSU alerting them of the opportunity to apply for the nurse-midwife degree.

Montanas first nurse-midwife program

There are only about 50 certified nurse-midwives in Montana, according to Hill. All had to receive their education out-of-state or complete an online program provided by an institution based elsewhere. MSU already offers undergraduate nursing degrees as well as two types of advanced nurse practitioner tracks. The nurse-midwife program will be the third.

Funding for the program comes partly from a private donation from Mark and Robyn Jones. In 2021, the couple donated $101 million to the College of Nursing to help it grow and graduate more nurses, with $3 million earmarked specifically for the nurse-midwife track. St. Vincent Regional Hospital in Billings donated another $3 million to help cover operating costs such as travel expenses typically borne by students to reach their clinical sites.

Classroom instruction for the first half of the program will be delivered online so students can complete their coursework at home. In-person gatherings will take place about once a semester at one of MSUs nursing campuses for orientation as well as labs and simulations. Hill said during this time continuing to work as a part-time provider would be feasible. Then, students must complete four semesters of clinical work in a health care facility, where they will manage at least 40 vaginal births in order to graduate. Clinical placements will try to be made as close to home as possible, she said, but there will be more driving for people who live in particularly rural areas.

You name it, and the health outcomes get better the more you have midwives integrated into the health care system, Hill said. When you have more midwives providing care, what happens to those maternal newborn outcomes is really just pretty stunning across the board.
The Montana Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered the Republican Attorney General to, by the end of the week, defend his preferred language imposed on a ballot initiative explicitly establishing abortion access in the state constitution.

In a new round of litigation over what's known as Ballot Issue #14, Montanans Securing Reproductive Rights, the initiative's campaign organization filed an emergency petition with the high court Tuesday asking for Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsen's preferred language be stricken from the ballot statement in favor of MSRR's language.

Groups supporting the ballot initiative  Planned Parenthood Advocates of Montana, the American Civil Liberties Union of Montana and Forward Montana  blasted Knudsen for attempting to hobble MSRR's campaign.

Time is of the essence: In their filing, attorneys for MSRR said its signature gathering company on standby believes it will be "virtually impossible" to collect and submit 60,000 signatures by the June 21 deadline if collection efforts can't begin before May 1.

Emilee Cantrell, spokesperson for the Montana Department of Justice, defended Knudsen's language submitted to the Secretary of State's Office.

"The attorney general followed the correct procedures to revise the ballot statement and did so in a timely manner and in accordance with the Montana Supreme Courts directives," Cantrell said in an email Tuesday. "The revised ballot statement accurately portrays to Montana voters how the proposed initiative would change current law, which the proponents statement failed to do."

The language submitted by the two sides is certainly distinct.

From MSRR:

"(The initiative) affirms the right to make and carry out decisions about one's own pregnancy, including the right to abortion, in the Montana constitution. (The initiative) prevents the government from punishing patients, healthcare providers, or anyone who assists someone in seeking reproductive care, including abortion care."

And from Knudsen:

"(The initiative) amends the Montana Constitution to allow-post viability abortions up to birth and prohibits any state requirement for parental notice for a minor girl's abortion.  (The initiative) prohibits the state and the people from enforcing medical malpractice standards against providers for harms caused in providing pregnancy/abortion care."

The Montana Supreme Court already overturned Knudsen's earlier swipe at shutting down the ballot initiative in his statutory review of the measure. Knudsen then was put in charge of submitting the ballot statement that would appear to voters. MSRR said last week it was concerned Knudsen would further exacerbate the process with his language in order to rankle the ballot initiative's campaign.

"No politicians can make these personal decisions for Montanans  the ability to control their own bodies, plan their futures and make private medical decisions is on the line," Martha Fuller of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Montana, Akilah Deernose of the ACLU of Montana, and Kiersten Iwai of Forward Montana said in a joint statement.

The campaign comes as federal protections for abortion access fell in 2022 under the United States Supreme Court ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization. Access to abortion care remains protected in Montana after a 1999 ruling known as Armstrong that found the constitutional right to privacy included the right to make ones own health care decisions. Ballot Issue #14 would make that protection explicit.

Even if the Supreme Court rejects Knudsen's ballot statement, the measure will still be subject to legislative review. The assigned legislative committee would ultimately vote on the whether or not to support the initiative. That vote is largely symbolic; rather than advancing or blocking the measure from the ballot, lawmakers' vote would instead appear on the petition during the signature gathering process.
Are Montanas days as the nations Treasure State over? A century ago, the city of Butte was home to The Richest Hill on Earth, producing more than 25% of the global copper supply. Immigrants flocked to Butte seeking the opportunity made possible by Montanas mineral wealth.

The saying used to go: Dont stop in America, go straight to Butte!

Now, the Richest Hill on Earths premier Berkeley Pit is a toxic pond and a quirky tourist attraction. Montana is getting lumped in with Scenery States like Hawaii whose economies are becoming dominated by tourism. We just arent building and producing enough to live up to our Treasure State reputation. But that could change.

Quote If we choose to mine and build again, Montanas days as the nations Treasure State are far from over.

Exciting recent discoveries of Rare Earth Elements could place Montana center stage in a 21st century green gold rush, driving economic growth, and potentially once again making our mineral wealth the envy of the world.

Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are a set of 17 elements that have unique magnetic, luminescent, and catalytic properties that make them essential components for many technologies that drive the modern economy, including more than 200 high-tech products. REEs are necessary for making everything from wind turbines and electric vehicles to cutting edge technologies like semiconductor chips and defense equipment like the F-35 fighter jet.

The prospect of mining REEs in Montana is a big deal for the United States. Forty years ago, the U.S. had the largest global market share of REE extraction and production. By the year 2000, the U.S.s market share dropped to 6% while Chinas skyrocketed to 85%. Today, China effectively controls the market, making our economy and our national security beholden to a government with far less respect for individual freedom and the environment.

Thankfully, several locations in Montana have recently been identified as high quality sources of REEs. Exploration near Sheep Creek in the Bitterroot Mountains found REE samples with grades exceeding any other domestic source and purportedly with very low radioactive thorium concentrations, potentially reducing the environmental safety risks involved with mining compared to high-thorium sources in China.

And in a twist of fate, recent reports say the Berkeley Pit in Butte is a strategically vital source of REEs, and groups including the Department of Defense are studying the economic viability of extracting and processing the minerals. Of course, any modern mining would undoubtedly be done with greater environmental precautions than mining a century ago.

While mining REE minerals itself would create many high paying jobs, Montana has the opportunity to think even bigger. REE processing facilities could be built nearby deposits to further reduce supply chain costs. Montanas burgeoning semiconductor and photonics industries could take advantage of the local mineral supply chain to scale up production. Energy manufacturers producing solar panels and wind turbines, which are highly dependent on REEs along with semiconductor and photonics technologies, could set up shop in Montana to take advantage of this robust local supply chain. All of this would be accelerated by low taxes and business-friendly regulations.

In 25 years, Montana energy companies could be installing wind turbines and solar panels built in Montana, with semiconductors and photonic technology manufactured in Montana, utilizing Rare Earth Elements extracted and processed in Montana, to export clean Montana-made energy to power the nation.

Of course, there are many barriers to realizing this future. For instance, we need to reform our broken environmental permitting process so we can build again. But the point is, Montana isnt destined to be a tourism-dependent economy. If we choose to mine and build again, Montanas days as the nations Treasure State are far from over.
There was an overflow crowd of veterans, families and friends who attended the Quilts of Valor award ceremony at Richards Coffee Shop and Military Museum in Mooresville on March 21.

The local Quilts of Valor Foundation group, Grateful Quilters, honored 10 veterans for their service in the military.

The mission of Quilts of Valor (QOV) is to honor service members and veterans who have been touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor. As of Feb. 29, there have been 377,384 QOV awarded nationwide.

Grateful Quilters of Mooresville is a chapter of the national Quilts of Valor Foundation. The Mooresville quilters have awarded 178 quilts since forming in 2019.

The veterans included John Englund, who served with the U.S. Marine Corps in World War II from 1943-1946 with Radio Intelligence Platoon and the Korean Conflict from 1948-1952 as an Aircraft Radio Technician. Englund completed basic training in San Diego, California, and was assigned to the Radio Intelligence Platoon. He served in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Saipan and Tinian islands in the Marianas Islands. He returned to Pearl Harbor and was assigned to the Naval radio station, intercepting and reading Japanese code. He was discharged from the Marines in January 1946.

Two years later, he reenlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve. In August 1950, he shipped out to Korea, then to Japan, serving as an aircraft radio technician. In October 1950, he shipped out to Pusan, South Korea. In the winter of 1950, his air squadron moved to Hamhung, North Korea. He returned to the U.S. in August 1951 and was discharged in 1952.

He turned 100 years young recently.

James Foster served in the U.S. Army from 1959-1984 and is a Vietnam veteran. He was twice wounded. He also served in Turkey, France, Germany and Japan.

Donald Keller served in the U.S. Air Force from 1965-1969 and is a Vietnam veteran, working in a transportation unit and Final Escort.

Jim Lawton served in the U.S. Army from 1965-1969. A Vietnam veteran, Lawton served with the 1st Calvary Division as a helicopter pilot, flying resupply missions, medical evacuations and combat assaults. He earned the Silver Star, Bronze Star and 34 Air Medals for his valor in Vietnam.

Tommy Stutts served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1966-1968 and is a Vietnam veteran. Stutts served in Parris Island, South Carolina, and at Camp Lejeune prior to his service in Vietnam.

Vernon Messer served in the U.S. Army from 1967-2000. He served in support of the Gulf War/Desert Shield/Desert Storm and in Grenada. His assignments included Germany, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Messer is a Bronze Star recipient and earned the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal and five Army Commendation Medals.

Peter Davis served in the U.S. Army from 1968-1970 and is a Vietnam veteran. He completed basic training at Fort Ord, California, and USA Intelligence Command at Fort Holabird, Maryland. While serving in Vietnam, he was assigned to Headquarters Command, 101st Airborne Division at Camp Hochmuth.

Kenneth Bair served in the U.S. Army from 1970-1971 and is a Vietnam veteran. While serving in Vietnam, Bair became ill with a fever of 105.5. Doctors at the hospital in Dhu Lai diagnosed him with malaria and hepatitis. This diagnosis started his journey to hospitals in Guam, the Philippines and Japan, then finally to Letterman Hospital in San Francisco. Due to effects from Agent Orange, Bair required a heart transplant in 2008.

David Crary served in the U.S. Army from 1992-2016. He deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. His assignments included Fort Hood, Texas, Germany, Fort Stewart, Georgia and Bosnia. Ford Jackson, South Carolina (three tours), Kuwait, Korea and Hawaii.

Danielle Tonkin Marshall served in the U.S. Army from 2004-2013. She deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, assigned to security and fence protection with the 445tj QM Company, and was stationed at Forward Operating Base Diamondback, Mosul, Iraq. Her other assignments include Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, Fort Lee, Virginia, Fort Polk, Louisiana and Kuwait.

These Quilts of Valor unequivocally say thank you to the veterans for their service, sacrifice and valor in serving this nation. After a presentation to each of the veterans, a representative of the Grateful Quilters read these words, We thank you for your service. Welcome home.
LOS ANGELES  To play a woman on the run in the 18th century adventure series Renegade Nell, Louisa Harland had to learn how to ride a horse, shoot a gun and fight.

It has every element under the sun, the Irish actress says. Theres comedy, adventure, fantasy, magic and, surprisingly, its moving at times.

To pull it off, she was in stunt training throughout the shoot, working with trainers in every discipline. There was so much to learn and it was so incredibly physical, the former Derry Girls star says.

Shes like the female Tom Cruise, says co-star Joely Richardson. She can do every stunt.

Ted Lasso star Nick Mohammed, who plays Nells adviser Billy Blind, had his own shot at action. Its always been a dream of mine to do (stunt work on wires), he says. I was really excited about it and kind of went for it on the first day. And then, in the car on the way home, I was just sick. I threw up.

Nonetheless, the illusion worked, helping create a world where Nell Jackson has been framed for murder and becomes the most feared highwaywoman in 18th-century England. She tussles with a variety of characters and shows how much of a shapeshifter she really is. Every member of the family will connect with this, Harland says. Its really, really refreshing to see such strong, funny, flawed women portrayed onscreen.

Written by Happy Valleys Sally Anne Wainwright, the series views women differently than most historical dramas.

I didnt know parts like this existed for women, Harland says. And everything about the character was a challenge for me.

On that list of challenges: a Cockney accent. Im not English and I cant even ride a bike, let alone a horse. I could definitely not throw a punch. I have all these incredible skills now that will stay with mehopefully.

Co-star Alice Kremelberg, who plays Sofia Wilmot, an ambitious widow, shared a similar learning curve. Im from New Yorkand I had to learn to ride sidesaddle. All of that was a crazy, huge checklist of items. Its so unlike anything Ive ever read or seen before.

For Mohammed, it was career-altering. Sally Wainwright is a genius, he says. The last thing I saw of Sallys before doing Renegade Nell was the final season of Happy Valley, which is incredibly dark and serious and gritty. Thematically, its sort of linked to Nell. Its about injustice and, to a degree, class warfare.

That hes a supernatural character only added to the stretch. It was a world away from Ted Lasso, Mohammed says. And to be honest, it was a world away from anything else Id ever done.

For director Ben Taylor, Nells TV home  Disney+  brought its own challenges. You come in and say, I want it to be the darkest, the scariest, the most violent version of anything youve ever seen. But we knew that we were doing it for this platform, so we pushed.

The result was a story that immediately sets up the stakes for Nell.

We found a really happy balance, Taylor says. We got a really fantastic fight designer (who made it) as spectacular and violent as possible but with humor and improvisation. We knew wed go in for this sort of hard-ish 12 rating, but it was a real puzzle to sort of unpick.

Instead of sex  which was key to his last series, Sex Education  Taylor turned to superpowers. You can imagine a world where that isnt the addition, but its such an excellent addition, he says. Its what makes it sort of the Disney fantasy DNA. Sally writes brilliant real heroes but the idea that she chose to do that with a supernatural element makes it just irresistible.

Renegade Nell airs on Disney+.
Tales of women doing their part for the patriot cause in the American Revolution are not often told, but the Historic Burke Foundation has preserved stories of some of those brave women who lived in Burke County.

A brochure published by HBF called Women of Courage includes the history of Grace Greenlee Bowman McDowell, the wife of two patriot heroes who served as a quartermaster for colonial troops, supplying them with materials they needed to fight against the British.

Local resident Rebecca Heacock, Graces fifth great-granddaughter, was inspired by a novel set in the colonial era to research her family history in 2019. She and her mother, Marsha Brychta, soon found an equally compelling true story in their own family tree.

Womens history has always fascinated me, especially the saying, Well-behaved women seldom make history, Heacock said. My first impression of Grace was that she was one of these women. I admire her spirit of rebellion and her confidence to take action toward a cause she believed in.

Grace was born in 1750 in Rockbridge County, Va., where her family owned and operated a tavern, according to her biography.

Growing up, she most likely heard many stories about the Seven Years War (French and Indian War in America), Heacock said. She also lost an uncle who was killed and scalped by local natives. There was always danger living in the Shenandoah Valley during that time. Her father was illiterate and lost out on getting a few jobs because of it. Her mother hired Scottish teachers so Grace and her siblings could learn to read and write. According to family stories, her parents arranged a marriage for her to a very wealthy and elderly landowner. She left him at the altar and later married the man of her choice, Capt. John Bowman.

Bowman was Graces brothers best friend, according to the historical record. They married around 1776 and moved to North Carolina to be near their McDowell cousins.

She was around 26 years old at the time, Heacock said. Their farm in Morganton was called Hickory Grove, located near Quaker Meadows (Plantation in Morganton).

As the American Revolution swept through the colonies, Grace assisted her husband and brother as they fought for the patriot cause.

Graces brother, James Greenlee, was a quartermaster for the local Burke County militia, Heacock said. Grace assisted him with growing crops to feed the troops and packing the supply wagons. Her husband, John Bowman, was said to have made gunpowder to supply the patriot militia, and she learned the skill as well. Later, as a widow, she could not have done all this alone without help from enslaved workers.

John was mortally wounded at the Battle of Ramseurs Mill on June 20, 1780. The Women of Courage narrative recalls how Grace rode to the scene of the battle with their infant daughter after finding out about her husbands injury. She was able to reach him shortly before he died.

Grace came home to her role as a new widow, a mother to Polly, and a woman with lands to till, plant and harvest, Women of Courage reads. From the fruits of her fields, she became an unofficial quartermaster for the rebel Whigs.

Later that year, her cousin, Col. Charles McDowell, whom she would soon marry, hosted the infamous meeting of more than a thousand patriot troops at Quaker Meadows before they left to fight in the Battle of Kings Mountain, where they defeated British troops in a battle that is believed to have turned the tide of the war in Americas favor.

During that meeting, another patriot heroine stepped forward to do her part. Margaret ONeal McDowell, Charles mother, had all of the wooden fences around the plantation taken down to make enough fires to cook enough beef to feed all those troops, according to a history of the event related to The News Herald by Linda Lindsey, former president of the Historic Burke Foundation.

She is also a patriot recognized by the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) for reprimanding British officers who ransacked the family home, McDowell Station, at Quaker Meadows while her sons were off fighting in the war, Heacock said. Shanes Castle in Ireland is reported to be her birthplace. She died around the end of 1780.

Charles and Grace married in 1782, and the war ended shortly afterward.

She became mistress of McDowell Station at Quaker Meadows, Heacock said. As a senators wife, she became a well-known hostess and was a mother to six children. In her senior years, Grace enjoyed being a grandmother to Charles Jr.s children, who were born and raised at the McDowell House.

Heacock has performed dramatic reenactments of Grace in colonial costume at the historic Capt. Charles McDowell House in Morganton to share her ancestors courageous story and keep her spirit alive.

When I do my impression, I portray Grace as a grandmother, reflecting back on her time during the American Revolution, Heacock said. I keep in mind the pain she must have always carried throughout her life, losing her first husband and having to raise a daughter on her own in a world with an uncertain future. When I read her poem, I hope the audience realizes the sacrifices our ancestors made in the fight for freedom.

Grace died in 1823 and was buried with Charles, who had died a few years before, in the family cemetery.

Her headstone only describes her as his consort, but history has proven her to be a patriot in her own right, Heacock said. Many who lived in Burke County during the American Revolution suffered loss and damage at the hands of the British. I want people to know that Grace was a woman of courage and strength to join the men in her family in the fight for independence by resisting tyranny, supporting patriot troops and defending the home front. We are fortunate her story has been preserved.
The Berkeley Pit remains high on the list of candidates for an approved repository for contaminated wastes from sites in the Silver Bow Creek Corridor in Butte.

The more controversial Kelley Mine Area site is still being considered, perhaps to receive wastes deemed inappropriate for the Pit.

During a Thursday night meeting, the Repository Site Screening Committee will discuss these and other options for disposal of Superfund-related wastes. The meeting will be available for public viewing on the internet.

Atlantic Richfield/BP is responsible under federal Superfund law for remediation of historic mining and smelting pollution in Butte. The company must soon nail down a repository site or sites and get EPA approval before major cleanup can begin in the Silver Bow Creek Corridor.

Atlantic Richfield/BP has pledged to avoid the historic Dublin Gulch area and an area closest to Centerville if it ultimately relies on the Kelley Mine Area to receive a portion of contaminated wastes.

The company has said it is considering converting wastes excavated from the Silver Bow Creek Corridor into a slurry for dumping into the highly contaminated Berkeley Pit. Sites in the corridor include Diggings East, Northside Tailings, the Butte Reduction Works and others.

The Berkeley Pits property and mineral rights are owned by Montana Resources. The mining company and Atlantic Richfield/BP share in the sites environmental liability. Montana Resources has expressed support for using the infamous Berkeley Pit as a repository.

Josh Bryson of Atlantic Richfield/BP has said that if the Berkeley Pit is selected as a repository and approved by EPA that there will likely have to also be a land-based repository for certain materials, including those contaminated by petroleum products.

During a technical meeting Tuesday that included representatives from EPA, Atlantic Richfield/BP, the states Natural Resource Damage Program and others, Bryson emphasized that there are multiple waste streams anticipated and not all of the wastes would likely be appropriate for a single repository.

The primary contaminants of concern in the Silver Bow Creek Corridor are arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, mercury and zinc. Any wastes dumped at a land-bound repository would be capped with about 18 inches of soil and topped with vegetation, according to Atlantic Richfield/BP.

The Repository Site Screening Committee includes representatives from EPA, Atlantic Richfield/BP, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, Montana Resources, the Citizens Technical Environmental Committee, several county officials  including J. P. Gallagher, Eric Hassler, three commissioners  and others.

The committee meets from 7 to 9 p.m. The public can view the Microsoft Teams meeting via the internet. Those without internet access can participate in a viewing-only option at the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives. There will be no public comment.

For questions, call Eric Hassler at 406-497-5042 or email ehassler@bsb.mt.gov.

The link will be:
Residents living near the 700 block of South Main Street heard loud booms Wednesday morning, along with some blaring verbal commands.

In the end, an unidentified man was taken into custody on state and federal drug warrants after search and arrest warrants were served.

Involved in the arrest were agents of the Southwest Montana Drug Task Force, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from Butte-Silver Bow Law Enforcement.

According to Butte-Silver Bow Sheriff Ed Lester, three distraction devices were deployed, and a loudspeaker was used during the warrant service.

No one was injured during the warrant service, Lester said. There is no ongoing danger to the public.

Additional details will be released when available.
Home entered

On Monday, Jeremiah V. Savage, 45, of Butte went to a residence in the 300 block of Granite Mountain Road, where he reportedly damaged a screen door and then crawled through a dog door to get inside the house.

The woman living in the house fled to a neighbors home and police arrived to arrest Savage for partner or family member assault, criminal mischief and parole violation.

Running from police

While at Silver Bow Homes Monday, an officer tried to talk to Jerry R. Jacobs, 41, of Butte, but Jacobs allegedly decided to take off instead.

Jacobs, who had a $25,000 arrest warrant out of Yellowstone County, was quickly apprehended. He also had meth on him, police say.

He was taken to jail on the outside warrant plus complaints of criminal possession of dangerous drugs, criminal possession of drug paraphernalia and obstructing a peace officer.

Two warrants

Sherry A. Falcon, 35, of Butte was also arrested Monday at Silver Bow Homes.

Falcon had two warrants for her arrest  one out of Gallatin County and the other from the Montana Highway Patrol.

Return engagement

On Tuesday, officers told Todd J. Tonkin, 49, of Butte not to return to the 10 block of Fremont Street.

Later Tuesday night he decided to take his chances and was back on Fremont. His return engagement got him arrested for criminal trespass to property.

Wake-up call

At about 4 a.m. Tuesday, police were called to the 3300 block of Harrison Avenue where a man was seen sleeping in his car.

Joshua D. Allen, 40, of Butte was an absconder from Adult Parole & Probation and had suspected methamphetamine in his vehicle. When officers were arresting Allen, he allegedly resisted and once placed in the police cruiser, kicked the inside doors.

He was jailed for criminal possession of dangerous drugs, resisting arrest and parole violation.

Windows shattered

Several windows at the old St. James Hospital at 225 S. Idaho St. were shattered Tuesday.
Kraft Heinz's Muscatine plant is set to benefit from a federal grant to the company to implement clean energy projects at some of its locations.

This week, it was announced Kraft Heinz will receive up to $170 million from the U.S. Department of Energy to put towards fully implement its planned clean energy projects at 10 of its plants, also known as The Delicious Decarbonization Through Integrated Electrification and Energy Storage project.

Among the selected plants are the Muscatine plant, which is expected to receive an estimated $14 million. Other selected plants include Champaign, Illinois; Columbia, Missouri; Fremont, Ohio; Holland, Michigan; Kendallville, Indiana; Lowville, New York; Mason City, Iowa; New Ulm, Minnesota; and Winchester, Virginia.

It is estimated that all 10 plants will see significant benefits by the year 2030, such as an overall energy use decline of 23%, a natural gas decline of 97%, and a 3% reduction of total water use.

Through these projects and the benefits received through them, Kraft Heinz hopes to properly kick-off its pursuit of reaching net-zero emissions by the year 2050, according to Marcos Eloi Lima, Chief Procurement and Sustainability Officer at Kraft Heinz.

This investment will give us critical resources to make necessary improvements in our plants to help increase their energy efficiency and reduce emissions, Lima said in a public statement. This investment recognizes our continued efforts to reduce our environmental footprint, and were eager to get started.

Through the funding received, Kraft Heinz will begin implementing technology such as heat pumps, electric heaters, electric boilers, anaerobic digestors, biogas boilers, solar thermal, solar photovoltaic, and thermal energy storage at the selected plants. The projects are expected to create an estimated 500 construction jobs within these plants as well as provide upskill opportunities for current workers.

The infrastructure changes made at these 10 plants will allow us to replicate successful technologies and processes across our remaining U.S. plants and globally, making us more efficient as we continue to make upgrades to more locations, Helen Davis, SVP and Head of North America Operations at Kraft Heinz, said.

Kraft Heinz is working with consulting company ENGIE as well as the U.S. Department of Energy in its efforts to focus on decarbonization within its plans.

Anti-abortion, abortion rights groups rally outside the Supreme Court
On Tuesday, Kenyas troubled flag carrier, Kenya Airways, announced that it had recorded an operating profit in 2023, marking its first in seven years.

The figure of Kes.10.5 billion(about $80 million) for the year ended December 31 represents a sharp turnaround from an operating loss of Kes.5.6 billion in 2022.

The airline, with its biggest shareholder being the Kenyan government, also reported in a release that its loss after tax had decreased to almost Kes.23 billion from over Kes.38 billion the previous year.

Total revenue for the year surged by 53 percent to Kes.178 billion, a growth the airline attributed mainly to a 35 percent increase in passenger numbers to 5.04 million, as per its audited results statement.

Despite numerous government bailouts, Kenya Airways has been struggling with a substantial debt burden and continuous losses for years. Like the aviation industry as a whole, it was severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Chairman Michael Joseph hailed the profit achievement as a significant milestone.

These figures highlight the airlines remarkable performance over the year and provide encouraging signs of continued recovery within the air transportation sector, Joseph said in a statement.
President William Ruto announced yesterday that the Chinese government has been offered Kenya Kes.13 billion to equip Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions in the country with state-of-the-art equipment..

Speaking during the TVT@100 Centenary Celebrations at Nyeri National Polytechnic, President Ruto stated that the funds follow his visit to China last year.

On my way here this morning, I received good news from our friends in China who have offered Sh13 billion to equip 70 TVETs.

The news is great as we celebrate 100 years. This is because if education is the key then TVET is the master key, Ruto said on Tuesday.

The President emphasized that the government is strengthening technical and vocational education to enhance the countrys capacity to offer practical training, President William Ruto has said.

The objective is to use the power of technical vocational education and training (TVET) to push the potential of young people to positively contribute to economic growth.

He pointed out that the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) was designed to accelerate economic growth by investing in critical pillars that create employment for millions of skilled youth.

As we implement policies, programmes and projects which create jobs for the youth, we must simultaneously equip millions of young Kenyans with the education, training and skills necessary to enhance their productivity in a dynamic, globalised and competitive labour market, he said.

This financial year, the government has allocated Kes.28.3 billion to TVET institutions.

We intend to keep raising the budgetary allocation in future until we achieve an optimal level of investment, he said.

The government is also recruiting 2,000 TVET tutors, with the goal of increasing the total number to 4,000.

The Head of State announced that the Italian Government is also seeking to help equip 40 more TVETs to improve the quality of training and meet international standards.

President Ruto, who recalled his tenure as Higher Education Cabinet Secretary during the Grand Coalition Government, highlighted that TVETs had made significant strides to align with the countrys development goals. He noted that the number of students in the institutions has grown from 40,000 in 2009 to 350,000.

In the past to go to TVET was like a punishment as it was meant for those who were not good in class but the perception has changed with 9000 students who had been admitted to university opting to join TVETs, President Ruto said.

Ruto emphasized that the youth were at the center of his development plans, and highlighted the involvement of youth in manufacturing, small and medium enterprises, special economic zones, and digital ICT hubs.

I am happy that this morning I went to the ICT hub and found a youth called Mike who said he has made Sh600,000 in the past six months from working online.
Kenyas civil servants are staring at an increase in their rent payments with the government reviewing a housing plan that has remained unchanged for the past 23 years.

Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga told Parliament that he has written to the Treasury seeking approval to review the rent for the 56,892 civil servants.

Should the National Treasury approve the proposal, rent payable for low-cadre civil servants will increase from the current Kes1,000 per month.

The review will also result in public servants who have been paying as low as Kes. 30,000 monthly in rent for three-bedroom houses located around Nairobis State House paying triple the amount.

Rent for civil servants averages Kes.2,200 but there are those who pay as low as Kes.1,000 per month for a single room in Mbotela Estate along Jogoo Road to the super scale public servants who pay as high as Kes.30,000 per month for three-bedroomed units along State House [Road].

Super scale public servants living in upmarket areas like State House should pay between Kes90,000 and Kes.100,000 per month.

Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee to respond to audit queries for the State Department for Housing for the year 2021/22, PS Hinga that a review of the housing plan is long overdue and necessary.

There is a need to increase rent. I have written to the National Treasury to allow us to relook at rental costs. We have not raised rent since the last review in 2001, he said.

Hinga informed the committee that the Ministry had not maximized the collection of rent from the 56,892 civil servants.

Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu had raised a red flag over the State Departments failure to collect potential annual rent of Kes.1.524 billion, assuming full occupancy of the 56,892 units.

The department indeed recorded a shortfall of Kes.506,585,000 against an expected total of Kes.1,524,585,000 in rent from 56,892 houses during the year under review, Hinga told the committee chaired by nominated MP John Mbadi.

The shortfall arose after Kes.16.99 million was deducted from the tenants by various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) but was not remitted to the State Department [of housing].
ST. HELENA  The St. Helena City Council has authorized staff to move ahead with controversial plans to put the St. Helena Public Library and Parks & Recreation under the same departmental umbrella.

City Manager Anil Comelo wants to create a new department, tentatively called the Department of Community Services, to oversee Parks & Rec, the library, arts, culture, grants and community engagement. Dave Jahns, the current Director of Parks & Recreation, is expected to become Director of Community Services.

The position of library director would be replaced by a Deputy Director of Community Services  Library. That person and the Parks & Rec Manager  an existing position  would report to the new department head.

On Tuesday the council directed Comelo to move the plan into the implementation phase, collect more input from the chairs and vice chairs of the Library Board of Trustees and the Parks & Recreation Commission, and come back to the council with final details.

Comelo said the new structure would enhance services, improve efficiency and produce more collaboration between the library and Parks & Rec, which both revolve around community engagement.

What may sound like an innocuous bureaucratic reshuffling has caused apprehension and even anger among some library supporters who worry the new structure could harm fundraising efforts, make it harder to recruit a top-level library leader, and dilute the librarys clout, both within city government and regionally.

Councilmember Anna Chouteau said shes open to the reorganization because I see we can do more.

While its scary to make changes to something we all care deeply about  this allows us to provide more for our community in a way we can afford, Chouteau said.

Mayor Paul Dohring said hes concerned by comments about disempowering the library and lack of trust in city government, but Im willing to at least try it on a trial basis  maybe for one year.

I dont have the great fear that others have, he said. I dont see any functional changes in either department.

Comelo cautioned that the new position of Deputy Director of Community Services  Library could prove difficult to fill.

If we dont fill the deputy position, were going to have to rethink this, and we might not do this, he said.

If the reorganization does go through, the Library Board of Directors and the Parks & Recreation Commission will help establish criteria to evaluate how the new model is working, Comelo said.

While job titles would change, the overall head count would remain the same, so the reorganization would have minimal effect on the budget. According to Comelos staff report, salary adjustments would add an annual cost of $17,398, although that number could change depending on the salary for the new library head.

Public feedback

The nonprofit Friends & Foundation, St. Helena Public Library, hasnt taken a position on the reorganization, but Executive Director Deanna M. Griffin did submit a letter addressing the issue.

She asked for assurances that the new Deputy Director of Community Services  Library would still be required to have library experience and a masters degree in library and information science  a standard prerequisite for past library directors. She also asked that the library staff not be saddled with more responsibilities related to the new departments oversight of arts, culture, grants and community engagement.

In response to concerns about donations, Comelo said the new structure wouldnt result in the commingling of donations funneled through the librarys Friends & Foundation and the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Foundation. Charitable dollars donated for the library and Parks & Rec would continue to be placed in separate funds and used only for the donors specified purpose.

Comelo said the library would remain a vital part of our city and an independent library.

I can assure you, as staff, we want nothing more than to have the library thrive and to have all of the functions that we are placing under this umbrella become more effective, Comelo said.

Those assurances have allayed some of the concerns about the plan, but not all of them.

Retired childrens librarian Leslie Stanton said library staff are not happy and have felt like the reorganization is a done deal.

She warned the council about shifting too much power to Comelo, who has noted that the Community Services structure has worked in communities like San Rafael, Beverly Hills, Pleasanton and Richmond.

Saint Helena is not those cities, Stanton told the council in a letter. Please preserve what we have and reject the notion that our town needs to follow those cities example.

If its not broken  

David Slaby, who resigned from the librarys Board of Trustees after angrily opposing the reorganization and insulting Comelo during a December meeting, called the plan misguided. In a letter to the council, he said all the library needs is a highly qualified permanent replacement for its prior brilliant director, referring to Chris Kreiden, who retired in November.

If its not broken, dont fix it, Slaby wrote.

As Comelo was about to begin his report to the council, Slaby interrupted to say the council should table the matter and consider it at a later date. Dohring admonished Slaby for speaking out of turn and, a few minutes later, announced that Slaby had flipped him off from the audience.

I dont know why youd want to do that in a public setting like this, Dohring said. Its very discouraging, very disrespectful.

Because you deserve it, Slaby said.

The police were called to the meeting, but Slaby had left by the time an officer arrived, according to Sgt. Steve Peterson. An officer responded again after the meeting because a few staff members felt uncomfortable as they went out to the parking lot.

Inside the book-ban machine: The rise of 'parental rights' groups and their efforts to ban books Inside the book-ban machine: The rise of 'parental rights' groups and their efforts to ban books Conservative education groups have spread rapidly, frequently in areas with politically mixed populations New conservative book rating sites are fueling book bans Regional groups are also organizing to challenge books: About 1 in 6 complaints nationwide in 2022 were from St. Tammany Parish New state laws support attempts to restrict library materials
Updated at 3:20 p.m. Wednesday  Napa Police are investigating a collision Tuesday night in which a bicyclist died, the department announced.

At about 8:42 p.m., a driver saw a 45-year-old man on the ground with serious injuries, beside a bicycle, on the south side of Wine Country Avenue between Dumas Street and Emperor Way, police said in a news release Wednesday afternoon. The man was taken by American Medical Response ambulance to Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center, where he died from his injuries.

No one else believed to be involved in the incident was found at the scene, police said.

Napa Police officers at the scene began an investigation, then passed control to the departments accident reconstruction team, according to the agency.

The cause of the fatal collision, including whether another vehicle was involved, was still under investigation late Wednesday. Police said they are seeking information about what led to and followed the collision, including any video footage from dashboard or home surveillance cameras.

The man who died in the collision was wearing a gray T-shirt, black shorts and black shoes, and was riding a gray road bicycle, Napa Police reported.

Anyone who may have seen the cyclist in the area of Wine Country Avenue between 7:30 and 8:42 p.m. Tuesday is asked to contact Napa Police Officer Tom Helfrich at 707-257-9422 or thelfrich@cityofnapa.org.

PHOTOS: American Canyon celebrates Holi, the Hindu Festival of Colors Holi 1 Holi 2 Holi 3 Holi: A colorful start to spring Holi 5 Holi 6 Holi 7 Holi 8 Holi 9 Holi 10 Holi 11 Holi 12 Holi 13 Holi 14 Holi 15 Holi 16 Holi 17 Holi 18 Holi 19 Holi 20 Holi 21 Holi 22 Holi 23 Holi 24
An aerial drone photo taken on March 14, 2024 shows an international freight train preparing to depart from Harbin international container center station in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang province. [Photo/Xinhua]

Recently, amidst the frequent geopolitical risks, the surging demand for China-Europe Railway Express has attracted widespread attention globally.



As a flagship project and iconic brand of the Belt and Road Initiative, the China-Europe Railway Express has pioneered a new pattern of transportation between Asia and Europe. It has established a new platform for economic and trade cooperation along the routes, building a lifeline of the industrial and supply chains in a turbulent world.

China-Europe Railway Express, which is fast, stable and reliable, offers strong support for the massive trade of goods between China and Europe, and is an important mode of land transportation in international logistics.

According to the latest statistics released by China State Railway Group Co., Ltd., the number of China-Europe Railway Express freight trips reached 2,928 in the first two months of this year, transporting 317,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of goods, up 9 percent and 10 percent, respectively. As of the end of February, the freight service had connected 120 Chinese cities and 219 cities in 25 European countries.

The surging demand for railway transportation, especially the China-Europe Railway Express, has been frequently reported by international media, which highlights the role played by these trains in stabilizing and accelerating trade between China and Europe as well as countries along the routes.

China-Europe Railway Express has significantly improved the railway connectivity between Asia and Europe, as well as the development of sea-rail, road-rail, and air-rail multimodal transportation, opening up a new channel for the supply chain across the Eurasian continent.

It has also enhanced customs clearance facilitation along the routes, continuously optimizing business environment at ports and improving cross-border transportation rules and regulations.

China-Europe Railway Express has constantly enhanced connectivity between Asia and Europe, accelerating mutual benefits and win-win outcomes.

New business models related to China-Europe Railway Express are emerging such as cross-border e-commerce trains, postal trains, and those connecting industrial parks and ports, bringing tremendous development opportunities to countries along the routes.

According to Xulio Rios, a China expert from Spain, China-Europe Railway Express combines the needs of both China and Europe in a new and complementary manner, and one of its significant values is the ability to unlock the potential for economic and trade cooperation among countries along the routes.

China-Europe Railway Express provides strong support for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, which promotes connectivity, mutual benefit, common development, cooperation and win-win outcomes.

At the opening ceremony of the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced eight major steps China will take to support high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, among which speeding up high-quality development of the China-Europe Railway Express and hosting the China-Europe Railway Express Cooperation Forum are important measures to build a multidimensional Belt and Road connectivity network.

In recent years, with the expansion of sources of goods and an increase in high-tech products, China-Europe Railway Express is transforming from a simple "corridor economy" to a "value-added economy", driving shared benefits along the routes through high-quality development.

The busy schedules of China-Europe Railway Express reflect China's determination and actions to expand high-level opening-up. The China-Europe Railway Express network covers almost the entire Eurasian continent, effectively expanding economic and trade exchanges between China and countries along the routes, and accelerating the cross-border flow of factors and resources.

Statistics show that China's total imports and exports with the 25 European countries reached by China-Europe Railway Express grew from 4 trillion yuan in 2013 to 7.42 trillion yuan in 2022. The two sides have witnessed continuously expanding trade volume, as well as facilitated trade exchanges.

The "two sessions" this year, the annual sessions of the National People's Congress and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, once again released positive signals of China expanding high-level opening-up.

China is proactively aligning with high-standard international economic and trade rules, steadily expanding institutional opening-up, promoting stable growth in foreign trade in terms of both quality and quantity, increasing efforts to attract foreign investment, promoting high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and deepening multilateral, bilateral and regional economic cooperation. This will bring more opportunities for win-win cooperation to all countries.

China-Europe Railway Express, spanning across the Eurasian continent, is increasingly becoming a "road of happiness" benefiting people of all relevant countries and a "road of prosperity" contributing to the world.

China will continue to work with all relevant parties and follow the principles of planning together, building together and benefiting together, to drive the development of the China-Europe Railway Express toward higher quality, better efficiency and greater security, thus contributing to the global economy and improving the well-being of people in all countries.
by Arathi Menon

A review of Indias 15-year rhino reintroduction programme in Assam finds that rhinos that were translocated in the state were able to adapt effectively to their new environment. It highlights the potential of well-managed wild-to-wild translocation schemes to contribute to the recovery of endangered rhinos.

By the early 2000s, the rhino population in Assam was decimated, primarily by poaching. In an attempt to reverse this situation, the state government and Bodoland Territorial Council, with support from the International Rhino Foundation (IRF), the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), launched a programme, the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (IRV-2020), in 2005. The target was to take the population to 3000 rhinos by 2020 through increased protection of the existing population in Assam and relocating rhinos to protected areas (PAs) that they previously inhabited. Manas National Park bordering Bhutan was one such protected area where a total of 18 rhinos  eight from Kaziranga National Park and 10 from Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary  were translocated.

A recent study by WWF India looks into the outcome of the translocation effort and the status and behaviour of the translocated rhinos.

A perennial water source in the Panbari range of Manas is named Lafasari. Ample water sources and verdant grasslands, along with other features, make Manas an ideal habitat for rhinos. Photo by Deba Kumar Datta/WWF.

Since 1928, when Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was declared a sanctuary, the park and its inhabitants have witnessed various changes and upheavals. In 1990, it was designated as a national park, covering an area of 360 km2. In 2016, an additional 350 km2 of the Manas Reserve Forest was incorporated into the park for rhino range expansion. Historically, rhinos were hunted for trophies and later poached for their horns. Socio-political unrest between indigenous people and other communities, as well as army operations to contain the clashes, kept the region in perpetual strife. All these factors led to the local extermination of Manas rhinos, which were believed to number around 100 before these events.

Ideal habitat for one-horned rhinos

With its alluvial grasslands, semi-evergreen forest and moist and dry deciduous forests, as well as elevation ranging approximately between 50 and 250 metres above mean sea level (AMSL), with the Manas-Beki river system provides a constant source of water, Manas National Park is considered an ideal rhino habitat.

Deba Kumar Datta of WWF India, who is part of the project, says that the translocation was a success. It not only bolstered rhino numbers in Manas but also contributed to the development of the national park through initiatives such as establishing anti-poaching camps, infrastructure development and habitat protection. He highlights the improvement in the relationship between local communities with the park as well as the rhinos. An institutional approach was adopted for the translocation. Before the project, there were no facilities inside the park and even forest guards were hesitant to enter. However, things changed drastically after the initiation of this project, he shares.

A rhino with its newborn calf. Frequent courtship and mating among translocated rhinos were noticed, resulting in 38 calves, bringing the current population at Manas to 50. Photo by Deba Kumar Datta/WWF.

The global population of the greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) in the family Rhinocerotidae stands at 4,023 (June 2022), of which 81.3% or 3,271 individuals reside in Indias national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The national lead of WWF in rhino conservation Amit Sharma shares that the existing population, however, has a very limited distribution. The six PAs where they are found are disconnected allowing limited chance of gene exchange, making them vulnerable to various environmental events.

The CEO of Guwahati-based NGO Aaranyak, Bibhab Kumar Talukdar who is the senior advisor of the International Rhino Foundation for Asian Rhinos and the chair of the Asian Rhino Specialist Group of IUCN SSC says he believes that translocation is the best option for Manas since it is far from other rhino-bearing areas in Assam. The natural dispersal of rhinos from other areas is not possible in Manas due to lack of connectivity and human settlements, he says, adding that moving rhinos from Pobitora and Kaziranga was ideal.

According to Talukdar, the contiguous protected areas of Laokhwa and Burhachapori wildlife sanctuaries west of Kaziranga National Park which lost all its rhinos during the socio-political unrest in the 1980s too are considered for rhino translocation under IRV-2020. Interestingly, however, the Assam governments decision to add additional lands to Kaziranga, Burhachapori and Orang National Park in the past few years along the river Brahmaputra, resulted in the protected areas getting reconnected, facilitating rhino movement between them. Since December 2023, at least two rhinos, which are believed to have come from Orang into Laokhowa and Burhachapori have been living in these two sanctuaries. There are possibilities that in coming months, more such rhinos will stray out and use the habitats of Laokhowa and Burhachapori as part of natural dispersal, he explains. Sharma hopes that such remedial measures adopted by state governments as well as the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEFCC) would help tide over issues of isolation of rhino populations.

Constant monitoring yields the result

The study notes many positive outcomes of the project after monitoring 10 translocated rhinos through radio collaring over five years from 2008 to 2013, starting with the first two rhinos R1 and R2 and gradually increasing the number of rhinos observed. Thirty-eight calves were born to translocated rhinos between 2011 and 2021. Datta says that most behaviours observed were similar to rhinos in the wild.

The researchers considered the initial 90-day period to be the acclimatisation phase, during which the rhinos attempted to adapt. Datta notes that in terms of home range, some differences were observed from their previous habitats. For example, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary has only 16 km2 of suitable habitat for rhinos. When they were relocated to Manas, their home ranges expanded to up to 268 km2, he adds.

The paper highlights distinct seasonal variations in activities, largely influenced by the availability of food and water. While maximum grazing activity was observed during the monsoon and retreating monsoon seasons, rhinos were found to graze less during the winter season. Researchers attribute this mainly to the higher elevation and abundance of edible grass in Manas compared to flood-prone areas like Kaziranga and Pobitora. It also reports frequent courtship and mating among the rhinos, resulting in 38 calves, bringing the current population at Manas to 50.

Theres hope in wild-to-wild translocation

The paper recommends several crucial steps to ensure the future survival and well-being of the newly established rhino population at Manas, including the implementation of genetic management plans to maintain genetic diversity and prevent inbreeding; sustainable habitat management practices to restore preferred rhino habitats; and the establishment of a robust disease surveillance system to guard against potential health threats.

Forest guards patrol on elephants at Manas National Park. The study says that rhino translocation helps build Manas due to improved infrastructure, better anti-poaching efforts, etc. Photo by Deba Kumar Datta/WWF.

Talukdar points out that in terms of protection for the species by reducing poaching, the Assam forest department, along with Assam police ?are doing very well through proactive vigil. ?He suggests that we need to give more emphasis on grassland and wetland habitat restoration which is crucial for the rhino population and to sustain the success of programmes such as IRV-2020. Habitat management needs top priority if we want to sustain the successes we have achieved in rhino conservation in Assam. Release of government funds to rhino areas on time is needed to enable managers to run the rhino-bearing areas aptly, he shares.

Expressing concern over the degradation of grasslands and wetlands in India, which is significant for the rhino population, Sharma points to the RhoDIS India programme led by MoEFCC, which is building a DNA database to aid scientific management of the population and combat crimes against the species. Efforts are underway to promote sustainable tourism at the national park as a means of livelihood for the local community. This is expected to empower local communities with a sense of pride and responsibility for rhino conservation. Datta emphasises the importance of transboundary cooperation between India and Bhutan for the long-term survival and health of the species. Sharma hopes for a Conservation Action Plan and special funding mechanism for rhino conservation, recognising the need for special attention to this species.

This article was published in Mongabay. To read the original article tap here.
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The Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention has strongly condemned the continued and unlawful imprisonment of Armenian officials and civilians of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) by Azerbaijan.

"Given the high risk of serious violations of human rights against these individuals, including the loss of life, the need for a strong international presence has never been more urgent. Consequently, the Lemkin Institute calls on the international community to take necessary steps to secure the prompt and safe repatriation of all Armenian prisoners of war (POWs), officials, and civilians held hostage in Azerbaijan," the respective statement notes, in particular.

The Lemkin Institute reminded that Azerbaijan is detaining eight high-ranking officials of Artsakh, namely: Ruben Vardanyan, former State Minister of Artsakh; Major General Davit Manukyan, former First Deputy Commander of the Artsakh Defense Army; Davit Babayan, former Adviser to the President and former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Artsakh; Levon Mnatsakanyan, former Commander of the Artsakh Defense Army; Arkadi Ghukasyan, the second President of Artsakh; Bako Sahakyan, the third President of Artsakh; Arayik Harutyunyan, the fourth President and former State Minister of Artsakh; and Davit Ishkhanyan, the last President of the National Assembly of Artsakh.

The message of the Lemkin Institute states that while the suffering of all Armenians currently detained by the dictatorial regime of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev is deeply troubling, the Lemkin Institute is especially concerned about Vardanyans situation.

"The former State Minister, businessman, and philanthropist is particularly loathed in Azerbaijan due to his outspoken and unwavering support for Artsakhs right to self-determination," the statement added.

In its statement dated 28 September, the Lemkin Institute protested against the sentencing of Vardanyan to four months of preventive detention, which was presumed to be followed by legal proceedings involving a variety of fabricated claims that could potentially lead to a 14-year prison sentence.

The Lemkin Institute expressed its concerns regarding the possibility that President Aliyevs regime could make an example out of Vardanyan or any other of the high-ranking officials, given their symbolic and historic significance for Artsakhs independence cause.

The Lemkin Institute has once again called on the international community to persuade President Aliyevs regime into promptly releasing all Armenian civilians and POWs under its jurisdiction.

Additionally, it exhorted the international community to refrain from providing any kind of assistance that could worsen the suffering of the victims of the Artsakh genocide or embolden Azerbaijan to perpetrate any unlawful act of aggression against Armenian territory.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan received a delegation led by Anne-Laurence Petel, head of the France-Armenia Parliamentary Friendship Group of the French National Assembly (NA).

The PM welcomed the visit of the members of this interparliamentary friendship group to Armenia, and thanked them for their commitment to the agendas related to Armenia. Also, the premier emphasized the strong ties formed between the parliaments of Armenia and France, and stressed the fact of high-level intensive bilateral cooperation.

Anne-Laurence Petel, for her part, noted that the visiting friendship group includes representatives of all factions of the French NA, who have an unconditional political consensus of support for Armenia.

Subsequently, the touched on Armenia-France multi-sectoral cooperation, interparliamentary interaction, activities of French companies in Armenia, engagement in investment programs, and implementation of projects in infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and several other domains.

The processes taking place in the South Caucasus were discussed, too. In this connection, PM Pashinyan reflected on the discussions on the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty, and emphasized that the principles of this treaty were fundamentally agreed upon in the statement made within the framework of the quadrilateral meeting held in Prague on October 6, 2022. The possibilities of unblocking the regional infrastructure were also discussed. In this context, Nikol Pashinyan presented the Crossroads of Peace project of the Armenian government and its principles.

Views were exchanged also on the activities of the European Union (EU) civilian monitoring mission in Armenia and the further development of Armenia-EU cooperation.

Reference was also made to the humanitarian issues of Armenians forcibly displaced to Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh, as well as the measures and plans of the Armenian government to solve these issues. In terms of addressing the needs of these forcibly displaced persons, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan underscored also the consistent assistance by the international community.
 Flash

The Pacific island nation Nauru on Monday signed up for the Belt and Road Initiative in the presence of its president, David Adeang, who is on a state visit to China on March 24-29, and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

It is Adeang's first China trip since the two countries restored diplomatic ties earlier this year.

During talks with the Nauruan leader, Xi pledged that the Chinese side is ready to work with the island nation to expand cooperation in economy and trade, climate change, as well as in infrastructure, among other sectors.

As the two presidents are charting the course for further growth of bilateral ties, a Chinese-aided solar power project being built with the participation of nearly 100 Nauruan workers has already begun to make a difference to local communities, a living testament to the fast-growing win-win cooperation between the two countries.

From blueprint to reality

Nauru, with its beautiful tropical scenery and brilliant sunshine, is endearingly dubbed as a "pearl of the Pacific." In the southwestern part of the island nation, rows of blue photovoltaic panels are neatly arranged close to the azure sea, reflecting the dazzling tropical sunlight.

Once connected to the grid, the photovoltaic power generation and energy storage project being constructed by a Chinese company can meet the electricity demand of the entire island.

The project will reduce Nauru's dependence on diesel, bringing down the costs in electricity generation, improving local power supply and increase the share of renewable energy generation. Most importantly, it will significantly add to Nauru's environmental protection efforts, thereby achieving its sustainable development goals.

"Now Nauru's power generation mainly relies on diesel. That's expensive and would pollute the environment," said John Scott, who has been working for the project since 2022.

"There is a lot of sunshine here and it's good for solar power. I believe electricity supply here will be much better when the project is completed," Scott told Xinhua.

On top of building the power project, China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd is also undertaking the redevelopment of Nauru's largest harbor, Aiwo Harbor.

Starting in 2019, the project to be completed in 2025 includes harbor dredging and the construction of a new wharf, a desalination system and a container yard, among other facilities. And in September 2022, the new wharf was put into operation.

The modern seaport has also brought cutting-edge technologies and job opportunities to the island country, facilitating local economic growth by expanding its connectivity with the rest of the world.

Zhu Wei, the contractor's deputy manager and construction manager of the project, has witnessed the development of Aiwo Harbor over the past five years.

"In the past, the old wharf was too small for container ships to dock directly, and they only came once every two months. Now the containers can dock directly at the new wharf, and they come every month or even every 20 days," Zhu told Xinhua.

As the facilities are gradually taking shape, Zhu is proud of his efforts over the past years. "I'm looking forward to seeing the projects I have personally participated in contribute more to the economic development of Nauru."

The rationale behind Nauru's decision to resume diplomatic ties with China "of course is about Nauru's development strategy," Lionel Aingimea, Nauru's foreign minister, said when visiting China in January.

"No developing country wants to be left behind," he said.

"Grass of happiness"

Being a Pacific island nation, Nauru is struggling to cope with such pressing challenges as rising sea levels and land erosion brought about by climate change. Worse still, the meager resources of fresh water for daily life is a persistent concern for local residents.

Due to its unfavorable natural conditions for cultivation, Nauru heavily relies on imports of agricultural products, vegetables and fruits, resulting in high prices in the market, said Joanna Olsson, director of the Government Information Office of Nauru.

Juncao, a hybrid grass developed by Chinese scientists as a major multi-functional agricultural resource, offers a feasible resolution to these woes. Translated literally as mushroom grass, Juncao can be used for mushroom farming, or as livestock forage and poultry feed, and a green barrier to forestall desertification.

When working in east China's Fujian Province more than two decades ago, Xi Jinping introduced the Juncao technology to a visiting provincial governor from Papua New Guinea, another island nation in the Pacific, marking the beginning of international cooperation on Juncao technology.

Having taken root in over 100 countries and regions around the globe, Juncao has been hailed by the locals as the "Chinese grass" or "grass of happiness."

Last month, Hess-Tekai Foilape, an agricultural extension officer for Nauru's Department of Environment, Management and Agriculture, became the first person from Nauru to attend a Juncao technology training course held by Chinese scientists in Fiji.

"I believe that adopting Juncao technology in Nauru would be highly beneficial for our country. Potential impacts include improved food security, increased resilience to climate change, and enhanced economic opportunities through the development of new industries," Foilape told Xinhua.

Growing together

Both developing countries, China and Nauru face the common tasks of growing the economy, improving people's wellbeing and realizing modernization.

China has won the hearts of the people of Nauru with its own deeds, Foreign Minister Aingimea said.

Recalling his visit to a waste-to-energy plant and an electric vehicle factory in China, he said what impressed him most was "how advanced it is."

"The technology blew my mind, absolutely amazing," he said, depicting China's path towards modernization as "fast and visionary."

The Belt and Road Initiative brings development opportunities to Pacific island nations, said Olsson, who is optimistic about future cooperation between the two nations, particularly on climate change, water supply and agriculture.

In his meeting with Adeang, Xi said China is ready to provide assistance to Nauru for its independent and sustainable development without political strings attached.

Friendship, old or new, will have a bright future as long as it is started. Cooperation, whatever its size, will be productive as long as it is sincere, Xi said.
The pulling out of Russian border guards from Zvartnots airport is a decided topic for Armenia, I don't think there is a need to discuss it. Speaker of the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia, Alen Simonyan, stated this speaking with reporters in the NA Wednesday.

"An attempt is being made to view it in the logic of [Armenia] withdrawing from the interstate agreement. But it was actually an interdepartmental agreement, the purpose of which was to help the Armenian border guards in that area to lighten that burden. There is no need to lighten that burden anymore," said Simonyan, adding that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan statement that there will be no more Russian border guards at Yerevan's Zvartnots International Airport as of August 1 is valid.

"We [i.e. Armenia] informed, we said [to Russia]: Brother, thank you for your help, we appreciate it. I also thank [Russia], but Armenia no longer needs that help. We can serve our airport ourselves, and our border guards also can fulfill the task put before them.

Now they are saying different things, they are saying, Well, who will guard the border of Turkey? I have a very strong doubt that if Turkey decides to attack Armenia, the Russian border guards will be able to or will act to protect it," said Simonyan.

And when asked whether in the near future Armenia could decide that there should not be Russian border guards on the Armenian-Turkish border either, the Armenian parliament speaker responded: "No. There was no such conversation; this is not that case."
David Chin, professor of chemical, environmental, and materials engineering, received the Faculty Senate 202324 James W. McLamore Outstanding Service Award for his commitment and exemplary service to the University of Miami.

Nominated by Dr. Tomas A. Salerno, professor of surgery and vice chairman for faculty development and mentoring at the Miller School of Medicine, Chin's commitment to service and leadership has left a lasting impact on the University. He has served the community selflessly and beyond the call of duty for several years, expressed Salerno.

Having served for more than 20 years on the Faculty Senate, Chin shared his primary motivation to serve was to shepherd and provide strong advocacy for the College of Engineering. He championed the initiatives to benefit the University.

I could always rely on David for solid impartial advice and perspective on issues affecting faculty and students, shared Salerno. He does what is morally correct, rather than what is politically expedient.

Beyond his administrative responsibilities, Chin's commitment to student welfare and academic excellence is evident. In 2013, worked with students from environmental, civil, and architectural engineering backgrounds, and the group placed first in a competition held by the Association of Cuban Engineers. Their work involved redesigning modifications to the sewer system in Havana, Cubaan endeavor with potential benefits for the Cuban people. This collaboration also provided Chins students with valuable real-world experience and impact.

Chin urges students to go the extra mile, so that their futures benefit from todays hard work. Effective learning depends partially on the instructor and partially on the student, said Chin. When you leave college, your habits can serve you well.

The 202324 Faculty Senate Awards Ceremony will be held in person on Monday, April 8, at 5 p.m. on the Coral Gables Campus. Learn more about the awards ceremony.

This profile is part of a 202324 Faculty Senate Awards series recognizing all awardees.
01:41

Ukraine's Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba will arrive in New Delhi on Thursday on his maiden visit to India amid efforts to seek a peaceful resolution to the over two-year-old Russia-Ukraine conflict.





His visit comes at the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement on Wednesday. During his visit, Kuleba will have 'a number of engagements, including official meetings with External Affairs Minister and Deputy NSA to discuss matters pertaining to the bilateral partnership and cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest', it said.





He is also expected to interact with the business community.





On March 25, the Ukrainian foreign minister had posted a video on X and said that he would pay his first ever visit to India.





The video, posted on a day India celebrated Holi, showed him standing in front of a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Kyiv, and also had visuals of celebrations of Holi, along with archival footage of Gandhi.





'Today, India celebrates Holi, the most beautiful and colorful spring holiday. I wish everyone a happy Holi! Standing here in Kyiv, in front of Mahatma Gandhi's monument, I am also pleased to announce that this week I will pay my first ever visit to India,' Kuleba posted on X.





In the video, he also said, 'My visit will further strengthen our relations.'







Terming Ukraine and India as two 'big democracies', Kuleba had said he was 'ceratin that we are set to be good partners and friends'.





In his short video, he invoked Gandhi and emphasised on the idea of 'freedom and independence'.





He also mentioned about the recent telephone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.





Prime Minister Modi on March 20 had held separate conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and asserted that dialogue and diplomacy were the way forward for the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.





Modi had spoken to Putin over telephone to congratulate him for winning a fifth term in office in the recent elections, and followed it up with a phone call to Zelenskyy to convey India's 'consistent support' for all efforts for peace and bringing an early end to the ongoing conflict.





During the telephone conversation, the Ukrainian President had thanked India for its support for his country's sovereignty and said that it would be important for Kyiv to see New Delhi attend the inaugural Peace Summit in Switzerland.





Zelenskyy had hailed India's continued humanitarian assistance for the people of Ukraine as the two leaders had discussed ways to further strengthen their bilateral partnership in various spheres. -- PTI





IMAGE: Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. Photograph:


NASA scientist to discuss eclipse history, discoveries at SIU

by Tim Crosby

CARBONDALE, Ill.  A series of public talks at Southern Illinois University Carbondale about the upcoming total solar eclipse concludes Friday, April 5, with a NASA planetary research scientist.

Lou Mayo, a planetary scientist and professor of astronomy at Marymount University, will speak at 3 p.m. at the Guyon Auditorium at Morris Library. He will give a talk titled Eclipses, Occultations, and Transits. The free, public event is the final Journey to the Eclipse talk at SIU prior to the April 8 event.

Mayo will describe the universe as it moves in quiet synchronicity, as accurate, predictable and dependable as the finest time pieces. Ancient civilizations watched the skies and predicted the cyclical motions of the moon and planets as far back as 3,000 years ago, with the annual progression of the sun through the sky known and celebrated by neolithic cultures more than 5,000 years ago.

The talk will explore the history and discoveries associated with eclipses, transits, occultations and conjunctions, with special attention to the April 8 total solar eclipse. The event is the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044.

Mayo has more than 30 years of experience at NASA in planetary research, working on special problems of the outer solar system. He served for 11 years on the Voyager IRIS and Cassini CIRS infrared science teams.

For more than 20 years, Mayo has developed and implemented NASA space science education programs on both regional and national levels. He serves as chief scientist at GAMA-1 Technologies and is deputy program manager for NASAs SolarSTEAM Heliophysics outreach program. Additionally, he is featured weekly on Space Oddities, a show that streams on YouTube and Facebook Tuesdays at 2 p.m. Central Time.

The Journey to the Eclipse series has brought together experts in astronomy, solar eclipses and other sun-related topics for students, faculty and staff of SIU, as well as members of the Southern Illinois community.

The talks also have streamed on Zoom. For more information and links go to eclipse.siu.edu.